bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaporation and Decomposition Behavior of Pure and Supported Ionic Liquids under Thermal Stress
Authors: Heym Florian , Korth Wolfgang , Thiessen Johannes , Kern Christoph , Jess Andreas
Published: March 2015

Ionic liquids (ILs) are widely discussed as alternative, sustainable solvents not only because of their unique chemical properties, but also because of their extremely low vapor pressure and – at least in some cases – relatively high thermal stability. In this work the vapor pressure data and kinetics of decomposition are presented for some selected pure and supported ionic liquids. Based on these results general strategies to determine the volatility and stability of pure and supported ILs as well as criteria for the maximum operation temperature with regard to decomposition and evaporation are introduced.
Screening for hepatitis B virus to prevent viral reactivation — who and when?
Authors: Etzion Ohad , Ghany Marc G.
Published: March 2015

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New Approaches in the Design and Development of Cannabinoid Receptor Ligands: Multifunctional and Bivalent Compounds
Authors: Nimczick Martin , Decker Michael
Published: March 2015

Since the identification of the endocannabinoid system, two G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) of this complex system were identified and characterized: cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R). In addition to orthosteric and subsequently allosteric ligands, new strategies have been used to target CBRs. Bivalent ligands and multifunctional ligands acting at diverse biological targets have been designed, synthesized, and characterized for both CBRs. Due to their altered receptor binding and pharmacological profiles, they are interesting tools to explore CBR functions and their interactions with other physiological systems. Moreover, this approach may bear therapeutic advantages in the therapy of CBR‐related disorders, especially multifactorial diseases. Promising prospects include anorectics with fewer side effects, analgesics with decreased tolerance, and therapeutics with multiple pharmacological activities for the treatment of cancer, inflammation, multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Assessment of Energy Saving and CO2 Mitigation Potential of Electric Vehicles and Plug‐in Hybrid Vehicles under Japan's Power Generation Mix
Authors: Komiyama Ryoichi , Fujii Yasumasa
Published: March 2015

This paper evaluates the impact of an extensive introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug‐in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) on the energy supply mix in Japan. Energy consumption in Japan's transport sector has been dominated by petroleum, and CO2 emissions in this sector account for 20% of Japan's CO2 emissions. Therefore, the deployment of clean energy vehicles, such as EV and PHEV, is expected to play a significant role in tackling energy security and environmental concerns. In order to assess the energy and environmental benefits of EV and PHEV, we develop an energy system model integrating an optimal power generation mix model and a vehicle penetration model, with consideration of the optimal electricity charging profile of those advanced vehicles. The calculated results suggest that massive EV penetration serves as an energy saving measure in Japan's whole energy system due to significant petroleum reductions exceeding the growth of fuel input into the power generation sector derived from significant EV and PHEV penetration. Massive EV deployment is estimated to contribute to CO2 mitigation in the energy system as well. Evaluating CO2 emissions by mileage by automobile, however, carbon emissions by mileage for EVs is almost equivalent to that of gasoline hybrid vehicles (HEVs) in the case of decommissioning of nuclear power plants, which eventually causes a higher carbon intensity of the electricity supply.
A High‐Frequency‐Link Secondary‐Side Phase‐Shifted ZVS‐PWM DC–DC Converter with ZCS Active Rectifier
Authors: Mishima Tomokazu , Nakaoka Mutsuo
Published: March 2015

Performance evaluations of a secondary‐side phase shift (SPS) pulse‐width‐modulation (PWM)‐controlled zero‐voltage soft‐switching (ZVS) dc–dc converter with a zero current soft‐switching (ZCS) active rectifier are presented in this paper. In the proposed dc–dc converter, soft‐switching operations are achievable from full to null loads by utilizing the parasitic inductances of the high‐frequency (HF) transformer. In addition, no circulating current emerges in either the primary‐ or secondary‐side full‐bridge circuits, and thus the related idling power losses can be minimized. In this paper, the soft‐switching operations over the wide‐range load variations are verified, and the characteristics of output power and voltage versus phase‐shift angle regulations are demonstrated in an experiment based on a 1 kW to 50 kHz laboratory prototype of the proposed dc–dc converter. Furthermore, the converter power losses, which include the switching and conduction power losses, are analyzed, after which the effectiveness of the proposed dc–dc converter is evaluated from a practical point of view.
Movement Control of Accompanying Robot Based on Artificial Potential Field Adapted to Dynamic Environments
Authors: Nakazawa Kazushi , Takahashi Keita , Kaneko Masahide
Published: March 2015

This paper focuses on mobile robots that can accompany a person, that is, it addresses how to control the position of the robot relative to the accompanied person according to the dynamic environment. The robot is expected to move side by side with the person in a normal situation, but a position in front or behind the person might be better if there are obstacles. The shape of the artificial potential field of the accompanied person is devised to smoothly control the robot position in a unified way. The Laplace potential method is also used subsidiarily to cope with extremely cluttered environments. Simulations and experiments in real space show the usefulness of the proposed method.
Winning the victim status can open conflicting groups to reconciliation: Evidence from the Israeli‐Palestinian Conflict
Authors: SimanTov‐Nachlieli Ilanit , Shnabel Nurit , Halabi Samer
Published: March 2015

Members of conflicting groups often engage in ‘competitive victimhood’, that is, they are motivated to gain acknowledgment that their ingroup is the conflict's ‘true’ victim. The present study found that compared with a control group, Israeli Jews and Palestinians reassured that their ingroup had won the victim status showed increased willingness to reconcile with the outgroup and held less pessimistic, fatalistic views of the conflict. Moreover, for members of the stronger party—Israeli Jews—winning the victim status also led to increased group efficacy and consequent readiness to take action toward resolution. These findings extend previous theorizing about the positive effects of addressing group members' need for acknowledgement of their victimization. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Voltammetric Behavior of Testosterone on Bismuth Film Electrode: Highly Sensitive Determination in Pharmaceuticals and Human Urine by Square‐Wave Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry
Authors: Levent Abdulkadir , Altun Ahmet , Taş Süleyman , Yardım Yavuz , Şentürk Zühre
Published: March 2015

In this paper, an electrochemical application of bismuth‐film electrode (BiFE) fabricated via ex‐situ electrodeposition onto a glassy carbon electrode for testosterone determination was investigated in aqueous and aqueous/surfactant solutions. In cyclic voltammetry, the compound showed one irreversible and adsorption‐controlled reduction peak. The BiFE revealed good linear response in the examined concentration range of 1 to 45 nmol L−1 testosterone in BrittonRobinson buffer, pH 5.0 containing 3 mmol L−1 cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. The limit of detection was 0.3 nmol L−1 (0.09 ng mL−1). Finally, the BiFE was satisfactorily applied for quantitation of testosterone in both pharmaceutical (oil‐based ampoule) and biological (human urine) samples.
A Simple and Sensitive Poly‐1,5‐Diaminonaphthalene Modified Sensor for the Determination of Sulfamethoxazole in Biological Samples
Authors: Chasta Himanshu , Goyal Rajendra N.
Published: March 2015

Sulfamethoxazole (SMZ), an antibacterial sulfonamide drug, has been selectively determined using poly‐1,5‐diaminonaphthalene (p‐DAN) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The modified sensor was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). SMZ showed linear response in the concentration range of 0.5–150 µM by using square wave voltammetry (SWV) and the detection limit was found to be 0.05 nM with sensitivity of 0.085 µA µM−1. The proposed sensor has been successfully employed to determine SMZ in the pharmaceutical tablets and human urine samples.
Effects of Self‐Compassion Workbook Training on Trauma‐Related Guilt in a Sample of Homeless Veterans: A Pilot Study
Authors: Held Philip , Owens Gina P.
Published: March 2015

Objective

The present pilot study examined the effects of a 4‐week‐long self‐administered self‐compassion training on trauma‐related guilt and compared it to a stress inoculation control group.

Method

A total of 47 homeless male veterans who were living in transitional housing facilities volunteered to participate in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to either a self‐compassion (N = 13) or a stress inoculation (N = 14) group and were asked to complete pre‐, mid‐, and postintervention assessments measuring changes in self‐compassion, trauma‐related guilt, and posttraumatic stress disorder severity.

Results

Participants in both interventions reported increased levels of self‐compassion and equal reductions in trauma‐related guilt. No other significant changes were noted.

Conclusions

The results from this pilot study provide preliminary evidence for the use of self‐compassion and stress inoculation trainings as effective interventions for trauma‐related guilt. The findings also suggest that self‐administered trainings in the form of workbooks may be a viable, cost‐effective form of intervention for disadvantaged populations, such as homeless veterans in transitional housing, who may lack resources or access to professionals or paraprofessionals. The effects of both self‐compassion training and stress inoculation training on the study variables and directions for future research on self‐compassion and trauma‐related guilt are discussed.
Synthesis and In VitroAntimicrobial Activity of 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole‐2‐thiol and its Analogs
Authors: Galge R. , Raju A. , Degani M. S. , Thorat B. N.
Published: March 2015

The present communication deals with the synthesis of 1,3,4‐oxadiazole‐2‐thiol derivatives containing cyclic secondary amines such as morpholine, N‐methyl piperizine, and piperizine. The structural elucidation is based on the spectral data (IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR) .The newly synthesized compounds were then tested for their antimicrobial activity against a representative panel of micro‐organisms such as Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans by using ciprofloxacin and fluconazole as reference drugs for bacteria and fungi, respectively. These synthesized compounds showed moderate to potential antibacterial and antifungal activity in the range of 6–50 μM against the selected bacteria and 12–50 μM against the most common fungi, respectively.
Synthesis and Characterization of Bisimidazoles, Bistriazoles, Bisthiadiazoles, and Bisthiazoles from Novel Bishydrazonoyl Dichlorides
Authors: Sayed Abdelwahed R. , Gomha Sobhi M. , Farghaly Thoraya A.
Published: March 2015

We have synthesized a number of bisimidazoles, bistriazoles, and bisthiadiazoles derivatives based on new bishydrazonoylchlorides. Structures of the final products were elucidated by elemental analysis and spectral data.
Mimicry and Investigative Interviewing: Using Deliberate Mimicry to Elicit Information and Cues to Deceit
Authors: Shaw Dominic J. , Vrij Aldert , Leal Sharon , Mann Samantha , Hillman Jackie , Granhag Pär Anders , Fisher Ronald P.
Published: March 2015

We examined the effect of deliberate mimicry on eliciting (accurate) information and cues to deceit. Mimicry is considered to facilitate cooperation and compliance in truth tellers, whereas liars are constrained to provide detail. We therefore expected truth tellers to be more detailed than liars, particularly after being mimicked. A total of 165 participants told the truth or lied about a meeting they attended. During the interview, an interviewer mimicked half of the participants. Truth tellers were more detailed than liars, but only in the ‘mimicry present’ condition. Truth tellers also gave more accurate units of information than liars, and the difference was most pronounced in the ‘mimicry present’ condition. Mimicry as a tool for eliciting information and cues to deceit fits well with the emerging ‘interviewing to detect deception’ literature, particularly in the ‘encouraging interviewees to say more’ approach. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of 18F‐labeled active site inhibited factor VII (ASIS)
Authors: Erlandsson Maria , Nielsen Carsten H. , Jeppesen Troels E. , Kristensen Jesper B. , Petersen Lars C. , Madsen Jacob , Kjær Andreas
Published: March 2015

Activated factor VII blocked in the active site with Phe–Phe–Arg–chloromethyl ketone (active site inhibited factor VII (ASIS)) is a 50‐kDa protein that binds with high affinity to its receptor, tissue factor (TF). TF is a transmembrane glycoprotein that plays an important role in, for example, thrombosis, metastasis, tumor growth, and tumor angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to develop an 18F‐labeled ASIS derivative to assess TF expression in tumors.

Active site inhibited factor VII was labeled using N‐succinimidyl‐4‐[18F]fluorobenzoate, and the [18F]ASIS was purified on a PD‐10 desalting column. The radiochemical yield was 25 ± 6%, the radiochemical purity was >97%, and the pseudospecific radioactivity was 35 ± 9 GBq/µmol. The binding efficacy was evaluated in pull‐down experiments, which monitored the binding of unlabeled ASIS and [18F]ASIS to TF and to a specific anti‐factor VII antibody (F1A2‐mAb). No significant difference in binding efficacy between [18F]ASIS and ASIS could be detected. Furthermore, [18F]ASIS was relatively stable in vitro and in vivo in mice.

In conclusion, [18F]ASIS has for the first time been successfully synthesized as a possible positron emission tomography tracer to image TF expression levels. In vivo positron emission tomography studies to evaluate the full potential of [18F]ASIS are in progress.
Atmospheric pressure chemical ionization of explosives using alternating current corona discharge ion source
Authors: Usmanov D. T. , Chen L. C. , Yu Z. , Yamabe S. , Sakaki S. , Hiraoka K.
Published: March 2015

The high‐sensitive detection of explosives is of great importance for social security and safety. In this work, the ion source for atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/mass spectrometry using alternating current corona discharge was newly designed for the analysis of explosives. An electromolded fine capillary with 115 µm inner diameter and 12 mm long was used for the inlet of the mass spectrometer. The flow rate of air through this capillary was 41 ml/min. Stable corona discharge could be maintained with the position of the discharge needle tip as close as 1 mm to the inlet capillary without causing the arc discharge. Explosives dissolved in 0.5 µl methanol were injected to the ion source. The limits of detection for five explosives with 50 pg or lower were achieved. In the ion/molecule reactions of trinitrotoluene (TNT), the discharge products of NOx− (x = 2,3), O3 and HNO3 originating from plasma‐excited air were suggested to contribute to the formation of [TNT − H]− (m/z 226), [TNT − NO]− (m/z 197) and [TNT − NO + HNO3]− (m/z 260), respectively. Formation processes of these ions were traced by density functional theory calculations. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Control of three phase PWM rectifier using virtual flux‐based predictive direct power control and SVM under harmonic conditions
Authors: Eskandari‐Torbati Hamid , Khaburi Davood Arab , Eskandari‐Torbati Vahid
Published: March 2015

In this paper, a new predictive direct power control algorithm to control the PWM rectifier based on virtual flux (VF) is presented. In this algorithm, supply network and the line inductances are assumed as an induction machine and so virtual flux space vectors are assumed corresponding with the space vector of the network voltages. Instantaneous active and reactive powers and finally convertor average voltage in both stationary and rotating reference frames are calculated by the virtual flux space vector components. The main advantages of the proposed method are low total harmonic distortion of the input current and low ripple in the instantaneous active and reactive powers and direct current‐bus voltage under harmonic distorted condition of the supply voltage in comparison with voltage‐based predictive direct power control (V‐PDPC) method. Proposed VF‐PDPC method with space vector modulation switching strategy was tested in simulations and compared with the V‐PDPC method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dimensional assessment of continuous loop cortical suspension devices and clinical implications for intraoperative button flipping and intratunnel graft length
Authors: Turnbull Travis Lee , LaPrade Christopher M. , Smith Sean D. , LaPrade Robert F. , Wijdicks Coen A.
Published: March 2015

Continuous loop cortical suspension devices have been demonstrated to be more consistent and biomechanically superior compared to adjustable loop devices; however, continuous loop devices present unique challenges compared to adjustable loop devices, especially in short tunnel reconstruction applications. Specifically, adjustable loop devices have the advantage of a “one size fits all” approach, and the ability to tension these devices following button flipping allows for the intratunnel graft length to be maximized. Nevertheless, the reliability of continuous loop devices has sustained their widespread use. We hypothesized that continuous loop cortical suspension devices from different manufacturers would exhibit equivalent 15 mm loop lengths, as advertised. Loop length was measured using a tensile testing machine. Contrary to our hypothesis, continuous loop cortical suspension devices with equivalent advertised lengths exhibited different loop lengths (up to 27% discrepancy). Inconsistencies with regards to manufacturers' reported loop lengths for continuous loop devices could have serious clinical implications and additionally complicate technique transferal among devices. Consequently, the manufacturers' accurate and complete disclosure of the dimensions and specifications associated with each continuous loop device is critical. Furthermore, surgeon awareness of true loop length dimensions and inconsistencies among devices is needed to ensure optimal implantation and resultant clinical outcomes. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1327–1331, 2015.
Quantifying the natural history of biofilm formation in vivo during the establishment of chronic implant‐associated Staphylococcus aureus osteomyelitis in mice to identify critical pathogen and host factors
Authors: Nishitani Kohei , Sutipornpalangkul Werasak , de Mesy Bentley Karen L. , Varrone John J. , Bello‐Irizarry Sheila N. , Ito Hiromu , Matsuda Shuichi , Kates Stephen L. , Daiss John L. , Schwarz Edward M.
Published: March 2015

While it is well known that Staphylococcus aureus establishes chronic implant‐associated osteomyelitis by generating and persisting in biofilm, research to elucidate pathogen, and host specific factors controlling this process has been limited due to the absence of a quantitative in vivo model. To address this, we developed a murine tibia implant model with ex vivo region of interest (ROI) imaging analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Implants were coated with Staphylococcus aureus strains (SH1000, UAMS‐1, USA300LAC) with distinct in vitro biofilm phenotypes, were used to infect C57BL/6 or Balb/c mice. In contrast to their in vitro biofilm phenotype, results from all bacteria strains in vivo were similar, and demonstrated that biofilm on the implant is established within the first day, followed by a robust proliferation phase peaking on Day 3 in Balb/c mice, and persisting until Day 7 in C57BL/6 mice, as detected by SEM and bioluminescent imaging. Biofilm formation peaked at Day 14, covering ∼40% of the ROI coincident with massive agr‐dependent bacterial emigration, as evidenced by large numbers of empty lacunae with few residual bacteria, which were largely culture negative (80%) and PCR positive (87.5%), supporting the clinical relevance of this implant model. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1311–1319, 2015.
Solubility, partitioning, and activity of copper‐contaminated soils in a semiarid region
Authors: Mondaca Pedro , Neaman Alexander , Sauvé Sébastien , Salgado Eduardo , Bravo Manuel
Published: March 2015

We studied the fate of Cu in contaminated semiarid soils from two areas with different mining activities in central Chile. Several regression models were evaluated to use soil physicochemical characteristics to predict solubility, partitioning, and activity of Cu. Furthermore, we hypothesize that the type of Cu mining compound (smelter dust versus tailing sand) can be another important variable determining the bioavailability of Cu. In the studied neutral to alkaline soils, soil organic matter (SOM) enhanced Cu solubility most probably through the formation of organic complexes with dissolved organic C (DOC). As a consequence, Cu solubility and partitioning were better explained by DOC concentration than by SOM content. On the other hand, Cu activity was mainly related to soil pH and was not affected by DOC. Although we found differences between the two study areas, Cu solubility and partitioning might not be as dependent upon the origin of the Cu mining compound as upon other physiochemical characteristics that influence the concentration and characteristics of DOC. Total Cu, pH, and DOC would be the most important variables to consider on Cu solubility, however, data about the nature of SOM may certainly improve the prediction models. Thus, multiple binding site models between Cu and DOC should be studied to improve predictions of Cu solubility.
The Determinants of the Financial Performance of Microfinance Institutions: Impact of the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Daher Lâma , Le Saout Erwan
Published: March 2015

With the growing scarcity of funding and the increasing commercialization of microfinance institutions, the latter should protect themselves particularly from the credit default risk of their microcredit portfolios and the risks related to financial market fluctuation in order to optimize their financial performance.
Transplantation speed offers early hepatocyte engraftment in acute liver injured rats: A translational study with clinical implications
Authors: Ho Cheng‐Maw , Chen Ya‐Hui , Chien Chin‐Sung , Ho Yi‐Tian , Ho Shu‐Li , Hu Rey‐Heng , Chen Hui‐Ling , Lee Po‐Huang
Published: March 2015

The impact of the rate of intraportal hepatocyte transplantation on early engraftment and repopulation is unclear. The aim of this study was to address this and to improve the engraftment and repopulation efficiencies of hepatocyte transplantation for the treatment of a rat model of acute liver failure in a clinically useful way without preconditioning. Acute hepatic injury was induced into Sprague‐Dawley rats with D‐galactosamine. Hepatocytes were infused intraportally over a period of 30, 70, or 100 seconds to study early engraftment (2 days) and repopulation (7 days). Three groups had significant differences in hepatocyte engraftment (P = 0.018) and repopulation efficiencies (P = 0.037), and an infusion over a period of 70 seconds produced superior outcomes. After the 70‐second infusion, the transplanted cells immediately transmigrated the sinusoidal endothelial layer and rarely accumulated in the portal venules, with liver function improving significantly. The mean first peak pressures, without significant differences, were 14.8 ± 6.5, 17.7 ± 3.7, and 13.6 ± 3.0 mm Hg in the 30‐, 70‐, and 100‐second groups, respectively. Differential hepatocyte transfusion rates contributed to accelerated early engraftment and repopulation in rats with acute liver injury. These proof‐of‐concept findings are of clinical significance because they are easy to translate into practice. Liver Transpl 21:652‐661, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
Bioactive Microsphere‐Based Scaffolds Containing Decellularized Cartilage
Authors: Sutherland Amanda J. , Detamore Michael S.
Published: March 2015

The aim of this study was to fabricate mechanically functional microsphere‐based scaffolds containing decellularized cartilage (DCC), with the hypothesis that this approach would induce chondrogenesis of rat bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) in vitro. The DCC was derived from porcine articular cartilage and decellularized using a combination of physical and chemical methods. Four types of scaffolds were fabricated: poly(d,l‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) only (negative control), TGF‐β‐encapsulated (positive control), PLGA surface coated with DCC, and DCC‐encapsulated. These scaffolds were seeded with rBMSCs and cultured up to 6 weeks. The compressive modulus of the DCC‐coated scaffolds prior to cell seeding was significantly lower than all other scaffold types. Gene expression was comparable between DCC‐encapsulated and TGF‐β‐encapsulated groups. Notably, DCC‐encapsulated scaffolds contained 70% higher glycosaminoglyan (GAG) content and 85% more hydroxyproline compared to the TGF‐β group at week 3 (with baseline levels subtracted out from acellular DCC scaffolds). Certainly, bioactivity was demonstrated in eliciting a biosynthetic response from the cells with DCC, although true demonstration of chondrogenesis remained elusive under the prescribed conditions. Encapsulation of DCC appeared to lead to improved cell performance relative to coating with DCC, although this finding may be a dose‐dependent observation. Overall, DCC introduced via microsphere‐based scaffolds appears to be promising as a bioactive approach to cartilage regeneration, although additional studies will be required to conclusively demonstrate chondroinductivity.
i‐Line Sensitive PAGs and Their Application to Photocrosslinking System
Authors: Okamura Haruyuki , Ashida Takuya , Kodama Shintaro , Shirai Masamitsu
Published: March 2015

Imino sulfonate PAGs sensitive to i‐ and g‐line were synthesized using 9‐fluorenone derivatives with arylethynyl units as starting materials. The PAGs exhibited good thermal stability and photoreactivity at 365 nm (i‐line) compared with that of an imino sulfonate PAG synthesized from unfunctionalized 9‐fluorenone. Evaluation of a series of i‐line sensitive PAGs were carried out. The PAGs were applicable to photocrosslinking of poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA). The PAGs were more sensitive than the PAG synthesized from unfunctionalized 9‐fluorenone.
Polyethylene Surface Modification by Side Chain Crystalline Block Copolymer
Authors: Nakano Ryoko , Sekiguchi Hiroshi , Yao Shigeru
Published: March 2015

Recently, we found that Side Chain Crystalline Block Co‐Polymer (SCCBC), which has a long alkane side chain (>C10), can be used as a good dispersant for a concentrated polyethylene fine‐particle dispersion. We also found that the viscosity of this concentrated dispersion increased at high temperature and returned to normal at low temperature. We named this fluid Thermal Rheological Fluid (TR Fluid). The mechanism of this phenomenon involves the attachment and detachment of SCCBC. With the use of this mechanism, we examined whether it could be possible to modify the properties of a polyethylene (PE) surface. A PE film was dipped in a dilute SCCBC solution, and its surface was coated by SCCBC. The water contact angle changed from around 90° before coating to around 70° after coating. Thus, the surface of PE was made more hydrophilic. The adhesion strength was examined by a tensile test. The PE film elongated before the attached region broke. These results showed that SCCBC has a very high adhesion strength and can be used as a surface modifier or primer for attachment. Additionally, SCCBC could be easily removed from the PE film by hot water, and thus, it should be very easy to recycle or re‐use the PE.
Living Anionic Polymerization of Functional Aziridines
Authors: Thomi Laura , Wurm Frederik R.
Published: March 2015

2‐(Oct‐7‐en‐1‐yl)‐N‐mesylaziridine was used as a novel monomer for the anionic ring‐opening polymerization. This is the first functional aziridine‐derivative that can be polymerized via an anionic mechanism. Homo‐ and copolymers with (2‐n‐decyl‐N‐mesylaziridine) were synthesized and characterized via NMR spectroscopy and SEC. Molecular weight distributions were all monomodal and very narrow (Mw/Mn < 1.1). The pendant double bonds were functionalized with a protected cysteine derivative as a model for potential bioconjugation.
Polymerization of Alkyl Diazoacetates Initiated with Pd Complexes
Authors: Ihara Eiji , Itoh Tomomichi , Shimomoto Hiroaki
Published: March 2015

Pd‐initiated polymerization of alkyl diazoacetates as an effective methodology to prepare carbon‐carbon (CC) main chain polymers bearing a substituent on every main chain carbon is described. (NHC)Pd/borate (NHC = N‐heterocyclic carbene) systems are efficient at affording high Mn polymers. π‐AllylPdCl‐based systems can initiate the polymerization with the number of polymer chain per Pd ratios over 1.0 because of occurrence of chain transfer, capable of affording relatively low Mn polymers in high yield. Initiation and termination mechanisms have been proposed for the latter initiating systems, based on the detailed MALDI‐TOF‐MS analyses of the low Mn products.
Highly Reactive Polyisobutylenes via Cationic Polymerization of Isobutylene by AlCl3/Ether Complexes in Non‐Polar Media: Scope and Limitations
Authors: Kostjuk Sergei V. , Vasilenko Irina V. , Shiman Dmitriy I. , Frolov Alexander N. , Gaponik Ludmila V.
Published: March 2015

The cationic polymerization of isobutylene using AlCl3 × OBu2 and AlCl3 × OiPr2 as co‐initiators in two non‐polar solvents (toluene and n‐hexane) at different temperatures and monomer concentrations has been investigated. In toluene, highly reactive polyisobutylene (HR PIB) with desired low molecular weight (Mn = 1,500–2,500 g mol−1) and high exo‐olefin content (85–90%) were synthesized at high monomer concentration ([M] = 5.2–7.8 M) and high reaction temperature (0 °C–20 °C) with both of catalytic complexes. In n‐hexane, AlCl3 × OiPr2 showed considerably higher activity and selectivity towards β‐H abstraction that AlCl3 × OBu2 and allowed to synthesize HR PIB with high functionality (exo ≥ 80%) only at –20 °C, but the molecular weight of synthesized PIB is slightly higher (Mn = 3,500–10,000 g mol−1) than required for the commercial application.
Cationic Zirconocene‐Mediated Catalytic H‐Shuttling Polymerization of Polar Vinyl Monomers: Scopes of Catalyst, Chain‐Transfer Agent, and Monomer
Authors: He Jianghua , Zhang Yuetao , Chen Eugene Y.‐X.
Published: March 2015

This study investigates the characteristics of the recently developed catalytic H‐shuttling polymerization (HSP) of polar vinyl monomers mediated by cationic zirconocenium catalysts, through examining the scopes of chain transfer agent, catalyst, and monomer. Amongst the three classes of chain transfer agents (metal hydrides, metal aryl/alkyls, organics) investigated for the MMA polymerization catalyzed by Cs‐ligated catalyst 1, the Lewis acid B(C6F5)3, metal hydrides MH (M = K, Na, Li) and the organic PhNMe2 promote efficient catalytic polymerization, while metal alkyls such as Et3Al and Et2Zn serve only as the scavenger and/or monomer activator and thus do not promote chain transfer. In the presence of 5 equivalents of KH, both Cs‐ligated catalyst 1 and achiral C2v‐ligated catalyst 3 promote catalytic MMA polymerization through effective chain transfer, whereas C2‐ligated catalyst 2 shows no chain transfer. Of several other conjugated polar vinyl monomers investigated, including acrylamides and α‐methylene‐γ‐butyrolactones, only N,N‐diphenylacrylamide (DPAA) exhibits catalytic polymerization behavior. Thus, in the presence of enantiopure pre‐catalyst (S,S)‐4 and excess B(C6F5)3, DPAA is polymerized catalytically and asymmetrically to optically active poly(DPAA) with a narrow MWD of 1.02.
Enhancing the Reliability of GPCR Models by Accounting for Flexibility of Their Pro‐Containing Helices: the Case of the Human mAChR1 Receptor
Authors: Pedretti Alessandro , Mazzolari Angelica , Ricci Chiara , Vistoli Giulio
Published: March 2015

To better investigate the GPCR structures, we have recently proposed to explore their flexibility by simulating the bending of their Pro‐containing TM helices so generating a set of models (the so‐called chimeras) which exhaustively combine the two conformations (bent and straight) of these helices. The primary objective of the study is to investigate whether such an approach can be exploited to enhance the reliability of the GPCR models generated by distant templates. The study was focused on the human mAChR1 receptor for which a presumably reliable model was generated using the congener mAChR3 as the template along with a second less reliable model based on the distant β2‐AR template. The second model was then utilized to produce the chimeras by combining the conformations of its Pro‐containing helices (i.e., TM4, TM5, TM6 and TM7 with 16 modeled chimeras). The reliability of such chimeras was assessed by virtual screening campaigns as evaluated using a novel skewness metric where they surpassed the predictive power of the more reliable mAChR1 model. Finally, the virtual screening campaigns emphasize the opportunity of synergistically combining the scores of more chimeras using a specially developed tool which generates highly predictive consensus functions by maximizing the corresponding enrichment factors.
All in the family: Correlations between parents' and adolescent siblings' weight and weight‐related behaviors
Authors: Berge Jerica M. , Meyer Craig , MacLehose Richard F. , Crichlow Renee , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne
Published: March 2015

Objective

To examine whether and how parents' and adolescent siblings' weight and weight‐related behaviors are correlated. Results will inform which family members may be important to include in adolescent obesity prevention interventions.

Methods

Data from two linked population‐based studies, EAT 2010 and F‐EAT, were used for cross‐sectional analyses. Parents (n = 58; 91% females; mean age = 41.7 years) and adolescent siblings (sibling #1 n = 58, 50% girls, mean age = 14.3 years; sibling #2 n = 58, 64% girls, mean age = 14.8 years) were socioeconomically and racially/ethnically diverse.

Results

Some weight‐related behaviors between adolescent siblings were significantly positively correlated (i.e., fast food consumption, breakfast frequency, sedentary patterns, p < 0.05). There were no significant correlations between parents' weight and weight‐related behaviors and adolescent siblings' same behaviors. Some of the significant correlations found between adolescent siblings' weight‐related behaviors were statistically different from correlations between parents' and adolescent siblings' weight‐related behaviors.

Conclusions

Although not consistently, adolescent siblings' weight‐related behaviors were significantly correlated as compared with parents' and adolescent siblings' weight‐related behaviors. It may be important to consider including siblings in adolescent obesity prevention interventions or in recommendations healthcare providers give to adolescents regarding their weight and weight‐related behaviors.
Assessment of the Effects of Nitrogen Plasma and Plasma‐Generated Nitric Oxide on Early Development of Coriandum sativum
Authors: Ji Sang Hye , Kim Taesoo , Panngom Kamonporn , Hong Young June , Pengkit Anchalee , Park Dae Hoon , Kang Min Ho , Lee Sang Hark , Im Jun Sup , Kim Ju Sung , Uhm Han Sup , Choi Eun Ha , Park Gyungsoon
Published: March 2015

Potentiality of non‐thermal atmospheric pressure plasma in activating plant development has been evaluated in this study. Seed germination rate of Coriander sativum, a herbaceous plant with slow germination rate, has been significantly increased over time compared to control after micro DBD (dielectric barrier discharge) plasma treatment with N2 feeding gas. No more increase in seed germination has been observed when the transferred energy dose was over 0.65 J per seed during plasma generation, regardless of feeding gases. Germination and seedling growth have been also elevated by plasma‐generated nitric oxide (PGNO) produced from microwave plasma torch in dose dependent manner and a threshold concentration of nitric oxide (NO) activating coriander development has been observed. Our data indicate that plasma energy transferred to seeds or PGNO can activate developmental processes in plant.
Plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition of gallium oxide on crystalline silicon: demonstration of surface passivation and negative interfacial charge
Authors: Allen Thomas G. , Cuevas Andres
Published: March 2015

Herein we report on the passivation of crystalline silicon by gallium oxide (Ga2O3) using oxygen plasma as the oxidizing reactant in an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process. Excess carrier lifetimes of 2.1 ms have been measured on 1.75 Ω cm p‐type silicon, from which a surface recombination current density J0 of 7 fA cm–2 is extracted. From high frequency capacitance‐voltage (HF CV) measurements it is shown that, as in the case of Al2O3, the presence of a high negative charge density Qtot/q of up to –6.2 × 1012 cm–2 is one factor contributing to the passivation of silicon by Ga2O3. Defect densities at midgap on the order of ∼5 × 1011 eV–1 cm–2 are extracted from the HF CV data on samples annealed at 300 °C for 30 minutes in a H2/Ar ambient, representing an order of magnitude reduction in the defect density compared to pre‐anneal data. Passivation of a boron‐diffused p+ surface (96 Ω/□) is also demonstrated, resulting in a J0 of 52 fA cm–2. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Virtual model‐view‐controller design pattern: Extended MVC for service‐oriented architecture
Authors: Cortez Ruth , Vazhenin Alexander
Published: March 2015

In the framework of service‐oriented architecture (SOA), the initial stage of application development is a complex task due to the upfront costs, software redesign, and specialized skills. The focus of this study is on the formalization of a virtual model‐view‐controller (Virtual‐MVC) design pattern to simplify the development of service‐oriented applications for medium and small‐sized enterprises. The Virtual‐MVC pattern facilitates the implementation of service‐oriented applications by abstracting the complex integration logic and service interface design from the developer's tasks. The main changes introduced by the Virtual‐MVC pattern are the total decoupling of the View from the Model, whose links are reorganized within an enhanced Controller based on the enterprise service bus. The Controller is reinforced with dependency injection for service virtualization. In this paper, the description of a Virtual‐MVC‐based programming framework is formalized, and a standard functional classification of MVC‐related patterns is proposed for comparison. The Virtual‐MVC pattern is implemented into a software development framework, along with its corresponding programming strategy. The evaluation is performed through a study in a software engineering course at the University of Aizu, where services were designed following the Virtual‐MVC programming approach. The results indicate a reduction of development complexity, while enforcing service design principles. © 2015 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Supramolecular Frameworks Built up from Red‐Phosphor­escent trans‐Re6 Cluster Building Blocks: One Pot Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and DFT Investigations
Authors: El Osta Racha , Demont Antoine , Audebrand Nathalie , Molard Yann , Nguyen Thi Thuong , Gautier Régis , Brylev Konstantin A. , Mironov Youri V. , Naumov Nikolay G. , Kitamura Noboru , Cordier Stéphane
Published: March 2015

The reaction of a K4[{Re6Si8}(OH)a6]·8H2O rhenium cluster salt with 4,4′‐bipyridine (bpy) or 4‐aminopyridine (apy) in an aqueous solution at mild temperature and pressure conditions lead to cluster functionalization and to the formation of two new compounds [{Re6Si8}(OH)a2(bpy)a4]·bpy·4H2O (1) and [{Re6Si8}(OH)a2(apy)a4]·2apy·2H2O (2). Their crystal structures are built up from trans‐[{Re6Si8}(OH)a2(L)a4] neutral units and the cohesions of both supramolecular frameworks are based on π–π stacking as well as hydrogen bonds, involving the cluster units trans‐[{Re6Si8}(OH)a2(L)a4], interstitial L ligands and water molecules. 1 and 2 present 2D and 3D cluster frameworks, respectively. Both compounds show red‐NIR luminescence in the solid states. DFT calculations demonstrate that association of face capped Re6 clusters with bpy and apy ligands enabled to form supramolecular frameworks that retain luminescent properties of the cluster units.
Influence of restoration adjustments on prefrontal blood flow
Authors: Sasaguri Kenichi , Otsuka Takero , Tsunashima Hiroyuki , Shimazaki Tateshi , Kubo Kin-Ya , Onozuka Minoru
Published: March 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine, after setting several restorations, the influence of adjusted occlusal interference during gum chewing on blood flow in the prefrontal area as determined using near-infrared spectroscopy.

Material and methods

The physiological rate was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) questionnaire. We selected 16 patients who desired prosthetic restorative treatment on the lateral dentition, and eight healthy volunteers. Subjects were divided into three eight-person groups. One group received restorations on the premolar area (PA), another group received restorations on the molar area (MA), and the control group (CT) received no prosthetic restorations. The spectroscope was fastened to the frontal region of the head after placement of the final restoration, but before adjustment.

Results

Pre-adjustment (first gum chewing for CT) blood flow in the prefrontal cortex was measured during gum chewing. Blood flow was again measured during gum chewing after the restoration (second gum chewing for CT) had been adjusted in accordance with the subjective assessment of the patient while wearing the device. The VAS provided quantification of comfort during gum chewing before and after restoration adjustment. For the PA and MA groups, adjusting restorations decreased discomfort significantly during gum chewing. Moreover, in the MA group, prefrontal blood flow was significantly reduced, and blood flow correlated with discomfort.

Conclusions

Activation of the prefrontal area may provide an objective criterion for judging the functionality of occlusion after prosthetic occlusal reconstruction and/or orthodontics.
Aristotle's Physics: A Physicist's Look
Authors: ROVELLI CARLO
Published: March 2015

I show that Aristotelian physics is a correct and nonintuitive approximation of Newtonian physics in the suitable domain (motion in fluids) in the same technical sense in which Newton's theory is an approximation of Einstein's theory. Aristotelian physics lasted long not because it became dogma, but because it is a very good, empirically grounded theory. This observation suggests some general considerations on intertheoretical relationships.
Against Nietzsche's ‘Theory’ of the Drives
Authors: STERN TOM
Published: March 2015

Nietzsche, we are often told, had an account of ‘self’ or ‘mind’ or a ‘philosophical psychology’, in which what he calls our ‘drives’ play a highly significant role. This underpins not merely his understanding of mind—in particular, of consciousness and action—but also his positive ethics, be they understood as authenticity, freedom, (self-)knowledge, autonomy, self-creation, or power. But Nietzsche did not have anything like a coherent account of ‘the drives’ according to which the self, the relationship between thought and action, or consciousness could be explained; consequently, he did not have a stable account of drives on which his positive ethics could rest. By this, I do not mean that his account is incomplete or that it is philosophically indefensible: both would leave open, misleadingly, the possibility of a rational reconstruction of Nietzsche's views; both would already assume more unity and coherence than we find in his texts. Specifically, as I show through detailed analysis, Nietzsche provides varied and inconsistent accounts of (1) what a ‘drive’ is, (2) how much we can know about drives, and (3) the relationship between drives and conscious deliberations about action. I conclude by questioning the hunt for a Nietzschean theory: is this the best way to be reading him?
Is There a Case for Quarantine? Perspectives from SARS to Ebola
Authors: Barbisch Donna , Koenig Kristi L , Shih Fuh-Yuan
Published: March 2015

Quarantine has been used for centuries in an effort to prevent the introduction, transmission, and spread of communicable diseases. While backed by legal authority, the public and even the health care worker community’s understanding of the term is murky at best and scientific evidence to support the use of quarantine is frequently lacking. The multiple interpretations and references to quarantine, the inconsistent application of public health quarantine laws across jurisdictional boundaries, and reports of ineffectiveness are further complicated by associated infringement of civil liberties and human rights abuses. Given the need to balance public safety with human rights, we must be more precise about the meaning of quarantine and consider the efficacy and negative secondary effects resulting from its implementation. This article explains quarantine terminology and then uses a case study from Taiwan during the 2002–2003 severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak to illustrate the key principles associated with quarantine measures taken during the 2014 Ebola outbreak and the potential hazards that can arise from quarantines. Finally, we provide a quarantine and isolation decision tree to assist policy makers and public health officials in applying medically defensible, outcomes-based data and legal authorities to optimize management of emerging infectious diseases. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2015;9:547–553)