bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poly lactic acid nanocomposites containing modified nanoclay with synergistic barrier to water vapor for coated paper
Authors: Farmahini‐Farahani M. , Xiao Huining , Zhao Yi
Published: June 2014

The binary nanocomposites of poly lactic acid (PLA) with the montmorillonite modified with trisilanol polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (Trisilanolisooctyl POSS®) were prepared via a solution‐blending process and coated on paper by bar coating and compress hot melt coating methods. The resulting components were characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Moreover, the water vapor transmission rates (WVTR) for the coated writing paper were determined using an IGA‐003. The results indicated that the modified clay PLA nanocomposites enhanced the water vapor barrier properties of coated paper significantly. The permeability of PLA nanocomposites to water vapor decreased by 74% [26.0 g/(m2 day)], respectively, as compared to those of the paper coated with pure PLA. The dispersion and phase behavior of the modified montmorillonite in PLA matrix was revealed by Transmission electron microscope. The intercalation of montmorillonite with PLA was further demonstrated using XRD. WVTR results indicated that the compress hot melt coating of the nanocomposites is an effective method to improve the water vapor resistance of coated paper. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40952.
Synthesis of a novolac‐based 3‐aminopropylsiloxane resin and its application for the removal of Cu2+, Cr3+, and Ni2+ from electroplating wastewater
Authors: Abou‐El‐Sherbini Khaled , Nour Mohamed A. , Soliman Abd‐El‐Ghany , Elmorsy Saad S.
Published: June 2014

Novolac resin was modified with 3‐aminopropyltrimthoxysilane to obtain phenol‐formaldehyde‐aminopropylsiloxane resin (PF‐APS). Fourier transformation infra‐red spectra, thermogravimetric analysis, elemental analysis, and pH‐metric titration were used to characterize PF‐APS. Its chemical formula was suggested to be C14H12.49N0.1O2Si0.1. The resin shows high experimental metal ions uptake capacity within short time of equilibration. The metal capacity was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry to be 0.787 mEq Cu/g. Maximum separation efficiencies of Cu2+, Cr3+, and Ni2+ from aqueous solutions on PF‐APS were at pH 8.0 and time of stirring 60 min; 94.0%, 90.8%, 83.2%, respectively. No significant interference from the background ions Na+, Cl−, and
was observed on the separation process. The heavy metal ions were eluted using 0.01 mol L−1 EDTA at 65°C releasing >94% of the separated metal ions. The method of separation was applied successfully to remove the heavy metal ions Cu2+, Cr3+, and Ni2+ from electroplating wastewater from Dekirnis, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40993.
The Moving Psychoanalytic Frame: Ethical Challenges for Community Practitioners
Authors: Rogers Susan
Published: June 2014

The need for outreach psychotherapists has increased considerably over the past few decades. Research suggests graduate training has not kept up with this phenomenon. Graduate students continue to be trained for in‐clinic work, and are not prepared for the challenges of going into clients' homes and into the community. The literature supports the necessity for therapists who will be doing outreach psychotherapy to be trained in working in these atypical settings, as many innate challenges exist in this work. Challenging mental health issues, distracting environmental issues, safety concerns, lack of collegial support and supervision in the field, feelings of isolation, role confusion, countertransference, and blurred boundaries are just some of these concerns. This article reviews the literature of a number of key topics critical to competent and confident work in the community. Confidentiality, boundaries in clinical practice, managing countertransference in the therapy experience, self‐disclosure, dual‐relationships, and safety are all explored through the lens of outreach psychotherapy. Training graduate students in these areas is critical to reducing burnout and boundary violations with this vulnerable client population. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Therapeutic Mentoring: Mentalization Training in the Community
Authors: Sacco Frank , Pike Nathaniel , Bourque Jennifer L.
Published: June 2014

This paper describes a therapeutic mentoring program involving 150 children over a period of three years. The program is operated from an outpatient clinic, in this case using psychodynamic supportive therapy delivered in the home as a clinical hub for high‐risk families referred by child welfare, juvenile justice, or courts. This program is part of Massachusetts Children's Behavioral Health Initiative (CBHI, 2013). This model of therapeutic mentoring requires all youth be involved with individual or family therapy and that the technique is designed to stabilize aggressive behavior in the community and begin to develop lasting social skills that can be sustainable in the community as a protective factor against poverty, social deviance and violence. The process of mentoring is viewed as an adjunct to therapy and a concrete way to practice mentalizing while learning to engage in a positive community activity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reinvestigating a key site for Polynesian prehistory: new results from the Hane dune site, Ua Huka (Marquesas)
Authors: Conte Eric , Molle Guillaume
Published: June 2014

Since the first excavations by Sinoto and Kellum in 1964–1965, the Hane dune site, situated on Ua Huka, Marquesas Islands, has been considered as a key site in central Eastern Polynesia and, as such, has been utilised in different colonisation models. However, some problems remained, particularly due to the lack of full publication of the original excavation results, and it appeared that these issues could only be resolved with new investigations. In 2009, the authors opened an 18 m2 excavation that produced a controlled stratigraphy of ten layers. This paper presents the first results, focusing on the stratigraphy and new dates obtained, indicating a sequence of nearly six centuries, from early human settlement around the mid‐tenth century until the abandonment of the dune around the mid‐sixteenth century.
Radiological evidence for the triple bundle anterior cruciate ligament
Authors: MacKay James W. , Whitehead Harry , Toms Andoni P.
Published: June 2014

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has traditionally been described as having two bundles—one anteromedial and one posterolateral. This has been challenged by studies proposing the existence of a third, intermediate, bundle with distinct functional significance, an arrangement that has been described in a number of domesticated animal species. No radiological evidence for the triple bundle ACL has previously been described. A prevalence study was carried out on 73 consecutive human knee magnetic resonance (MR) studies to determine the number of visible bundles, excluding individuals with a history of ACL injury or mucoid degeneration. A triple bundle ACL was demonstrated in 15 out of 73 human knees (20.5%, 95% confidence interval 12.9–31.2%). This is the first radiological description of the human triple bundle ACL. There was MR imaging evidence of a triple bundle ACL in approximately one fifth of human knees in this study. Clin. Anat. 27:1097–1102, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A case of extravascular hemolysis with Tk‐activation
Authors: Yamada Chisa , Davenport Robertson D.
Published: June 2014

Key Clinical Message

A 50‐year‐old female with ovarian cancer for 4 years presented with abdominal pain. She started antibiotics for possible infection, and developed extravascular hemolysis. All antigen detection tests were negative, but lectin panel suggested Tk‐activation. Additional laboratory testing in conjunction with blood bank is essential to investigate rare cause of hemolysis.
Multi‐Objective Optimization and Decision Support in Process Engineering – Implementation and Application
Authors: Burger Jakob , Asprion Norbert , Blagov Sergej , Böttcher Roger , Nowak Uwe , Bortz Michael , Welke Richard , Küfer Karl‐Heinz , Hasse Hans
Published: June 2014

Chemical process design is a multi‐objective optimization problem with conflicting objectives. It can be solved efficiently by calculating the Pareto frontier, a set of Pareto‐optimal compromises. This work describes how multi‐objective optimization and decision support techniques have been implemented in the process simulation software CHEMASIM. The Pareto frontier is calculated automatically and an innovative slider concept is used to navigate the results and to support the decision making. With the help of two examples, the optimization of the process design workflow is demonstrated.
Cyclic Performance Analysis of Hydrogen/Bromine Flow Batteries for Grid‐Scale Energy Storage
Authors: Cho Kyu Taek , Tucker Michael C. , Ding Markus , Ridgway Paul , Battaglia Vincent S. , Srinivasan Venkat , Weber Adam Z.
Published: June 2014

This paper explores the critical factors dominating the cycle performance of the hydrogen/bromine redox flow battery (RFB). Carbon electrode oxidation to CO2 was seen as the dominant side reaction, which can be prevented by operating the cell below 1.4 V. Crossover of bromide species from the positive to the negative electrode, especially during charge, dominates the coulombic efficiency, and can result in dissolution of the Pt catalyst if an adequate hydrogen supply is not maintained. This paper also describes the tradeoffs in voltaic, energy, and coulombic efficiencies during cycling, including the determination of the peak energy efficiency with respect to the HBr concentration and current density. Long‐term cycling demonstrates negligible cell‐component degradation over 600 cycles (≈3 months), with capacity loss caused by the bromine from the system, which can be mitigated by proper system design. The data and methodologies provided in this paper can be used to understand better the operation of this and other RFBs.
Morphology of struvite crystals as an evidence of bacteria mediated growth
Authors: Sadowski Rafal R. , Prywer Jolanta , Torzewska Agnieszka
Published: June 2014

Influence of Proteus mirabilis on the growth, morphology and size of struvite crystals in artificial urine has been studied. The growth in the presence of Proteus mirabilis shows formation of struvite crystals of more regular habits compared with that in the absence of bacteria. This implies that in the presence of Proteus mirabilis, struvite crystals grow with relative growth rates within smaller range of variability compared to the absence of bacteria. The results show that bacteria affect size and struvite morphology while the habit remains almost unchanged. It is suggested that the changes in struvite crystal morphology are induced by the presence of Proteus mirabilis. Microorganism's negatively charged residues interact electrostatically with positive ions which outcrop given surfaces and lead to an enhanced expression of these surfaces. This means that microorganisms actively mediate in growth processes. Therefore, the investigations provide evidence for the importance of biological regulation in crystallization process.
Ru0‐Catalyzed Coupling of Vinylboronates with Silanols, Disilanols, and Disiloxanediols: a Selective Route to Borasiloxanes
Authors: Frąckowiak Dawid , Walkowiak Jędrzej , Hreczycho Grzegorz , Marciniec Bogdan
Published: June 2014

A new highly selective method for the synthesis of borasiloxanes through the O‐borylation of silanols, disilanols, and disiloxanediols with vinylboronates in the presence of Ru0 complexes (mainly Ru3CO12) is described. The method leads to the formation of special compounds with a B–O–Si inorganic framework. When Ru0 complexes are used as a catalyst, no vinylboronate homocoupling is observed. A mechanism for this transformation is proposed on the basis of stoichiometric reactions of Ru0 with triethylsilanol and vinylboronate.
Regioselective O2′,O3′‐Deacetylations of Peracetylated Ribonucleosides by Using Tetra‐n‐butylammonium Fluoride
Authors: Babu Kumar Arun , Manetsch Roman
Published: June 2014

A robust, mild, and highly regioselective deacetylation of 1,2‐diol diacetates in the presence of other acetate functions was achieved by using tetra‐n‐butylammonium fluoride. This method provided a single‐step route to access O5′‐acetyl ribonucleosides, a key intermediate in the synthesis of biomedically important nucleosides and nucleotides. Moreover, it offered the general applicability of a non‐enzymatic method for the selective deacetylation of peracetylated 2′‐deoxyribonucleosides. Its synthetic utility was further demonstrated by the synthesis of molecules of biomedical interest by using this particular deacetylation reaction.
Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Allylic Substitutions of Trichloroacetimidates
Authors: Arnold Jeffrey S. , Zhang Qi , Nguyen Hien M.
Published: June 2014

With the development of practical methods for their preparation, trichloroacetimidates have proven to be valuable substrates for use in carbohydrate and organic synthesis. The broad utility of allyl trichloroacetimidates for the construction of carbon‐heteroatom bonds is the result of the unique features of the trichloroacetimidate nitrogen functionality as a directing, nucleophilic, and leaving group. In this review we describe the expansion of Overman's [3,3]‐rearrangement of allyl trichloroacetimidates to allylic substitution reactions for regio‐ and enantioselective C–N, C–O, and C–F bond‐forming methodologies.
Asymmetric Aldol Reaction Catalyzed by a Chiral Phosphine–Silver Complex
Authors: Yanagisawa Akira , Miyake Ryoji , Yoshida Kazuhiro
Published: June 2014

A catalytic asymmetric aldol reaction of alkenyl trihaloacetates or a γ,δ‐unsaturated δ‐lactone with aldehydes or an α‐keto ester was achieved by using a 2,2′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐1,1′‐binaphthyl·silver trifluoromethanesulfonate complex as the chiral precatalyst and N,N‐diisopropylethylamine as the base precatalyst in the presence of methanol. Optically active α‐alkyl β‐hydroxy ketones with enantioselectivities of up to 95 % ee were diastereoselectively obtained in moderate to high yields through the in situ generated chiral silver enolates.
Total Synthesis of (+)‐Antimycin A3b on Solid Supports
Authors: Iijima Yusuke , Kimata Osamu , Decharin Santida , Masui Hisashi , Hirose Yoichiro , Takahashi Takashi
Published: June 2014

A straightforward and convergent total synthesis of (+)‐antimycin A3b is reported. Four fragments were assembled on a solid support and the fully functionalized seco acid was cyclized in the solution phase. This synthetic route minimized the number of manipulations in the solution phase and is useful for a combinatorial library synthesis.
Biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation after wood smoke exposure in a reconstructed Viking Age house
Authors: Jensen Annie , Karottki Dorina Gabriela , Christensen Jannie Marie , Bønløkke Jakob Hjort , Sigsgaard Torben , Glasius Marianne , Loft Steffen , Møller Peter
Published: June 2014

Exposure to particles from combustion of wood is associated with respiratory symptoms, whereas there is limited knowledge about systemic effects. We investigated effects on systemic inflammation, oxidative stress and DNA damage in humans who lived in a reconstructed Viking Age house, with indoor combustion of wood for heating and cooking. The subjects were exposed to high indoor concentrations of PM2.5 (700–3,600 µg/m3), CO (10.7–15.3 ppm) and NO2 (140–154 µg/m3) during a 1‐week stay. Nevertheless, there were unaltered levels of genotoxicity, determined as DNA strand breaks and formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase and oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1 sensitive sites in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. There were also unaltered expression levels of OGG1, HMOX1, CCL2, IL8, and TNF levels in leukocytes. In serum, there were unaltered levels of C‐reactive protein, IL6, IL8, TNF, lactate dehydrogenase, cholesterol, triglycerides, and high‐density lipoproteins. The wood smoke exposure was associated with decreased serum levels of sICAM‐1, and a tendency to decreased sVCAM‐1 levels. There was a minor increase in the levels of circulating monocytes expressing CD31, whereas there were unaltered expression levels of CD11b, CD49d, and CD62L on monocytes after the stay in the house. In conclusion, even a high inhalation exposure to wood smoke was associated with limited systemic effects on markers of oxidative stress, DNA damage, inflammation, and monocyte activation. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:652–661, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Histone deacetylase inhibitory effect of Brazilian propolis and its association with the antitumor effect in Neuro2a cells
Authors: Ishiai Shinobu , Tahara Wataru , Yamamoto Etsuko , Yamamoto Rindai , Nagai Kaoru
Published: June 2014

Propolis is a resinous product produced by honey bees and is known to have antitumor functions. On the other hand, histone deacetylase (Hdac) inhibitors have recently attracted attention for their antitumor effects. In this study, we examined whether Brazilian green propolis has an Hdac inhibitory activity and its contribution on antitumor effects. By in vitro Hdac activity assay, Brazilian propolis extract (BPE) significantly inhibited the enzyme activity. Actually, BPE treatment increased the intracellular histone acetylation in Neuro2a cells. Regarding antitumor effect in Neuro2a cells, BPE treatment significantly decreased cell viability. An Hdac activator theophylline significantly attenuated the effect. Then, we analyzed whether the decreasing effect on cell number was caused by cell death or growth retardation. By live/dead cell staining, BPE treatment significantly increased the dead cell number. By cell cycle analysis, BPE treatment retarded cell cycle at the M‐phase. Both of these cellular effects were suppressed by addition of theophylline. These data indicate that BPE induced both cell death and growth retardation via Hdac inhibitory activity. We demonstrated that Brazilian propolis bears regulatory functions on histone acetylation via Hdac inhibition, and the effect contributes antitumor functions. Our data suggest that intake of Brazilian propolis shows preventing effects against cancer.
Global and regional factors responsible for the drowning of the Central Apennine Chattian carbonate platforms
Authors: Brandano Marco , Lustrino Michele , Cornacchia Irene , Sprovieri Mario
Published: June 2014

This work discusses and interprets the factors responsible for the Oligocene–Miocene drowning of the Central Apennine platform deposits, based on facies and stable‐isotope analyses of two representative stratigraphic sections. The Mediterranean carbonate platforms were affected during the Oligocene–Miocene boundary by a carbonate production crisis that was induced by global factors and amplified by regional events, such as volcanic activity. The positive δ13C shift observed in the studied sections corresponds to vertical facies changes reflecting the evolution from middle carbonate ramp to outer ramp‐hemipelagic depositional environments. This drowning event is recorded not only in the Apennine platforms, but also in other Mediterranean platforms such as in southern Apulia, Sicily and Malta, and outside the Mediterranean Basin. The ~24–23.5 Ma Mi‐1 glacial maximum may have had a significant influence on this drowning event because it was associated with high rates of accumulation of continent‐derived sediments. The increased continental weathering and runoff sustained high trophic conditions. These probably were a consequence of the Aquitanian–Burdigalian volcanic activity in the Central‐Western Mediterranean, that may have led to an increase in nutrient content in seawater and an increase in atmospheric and marine CO2 concentrations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Positive Psychology Intervention Among Long‐Term Unemployed People and Its Effects on Psychological Distress and Well‐Being
Authors: Dambrun Michaël , Dubuy Anne‐Laure
Published: June 2014

The present study aims to examine the effect of a positive psychology intervention (PPI) on a population of long‐term unemployed people. All were members of an association of employment assistance. An opportunity was offered to participate in a PPI. Twelve participants accepted (treatment condition). The remaining participants constituted the control group. Participants of the treatment condition were asked to complete 5 positive psychology exercises during 2 weeks. Participants of the control condition participated as usual in sessions to help their job search. Results indicate that PPI significantly decreases psychological distress (e.g., depression, anxiety) and significantly increases well‐being (e.g., life satisfaction, self‐esteem).
The effect of equipment proximity on safe performance in a manufacturing setting
Authors: Abellon O. Elizabeth , Wilder David A.
Published: June 2014

We examined the effect of equipment proximity on the safe performance of 3 assembly workers in a manufacturing setting. After a baseline period in which protective eyewear was kept 6.1 m from employee workstations, task clarification was used to inform participants to wear their eyewear while they worked. Next, the eyewear was moved to 1.5 m from employee workstations. After a return to the 6.1‐m condition, the eyewear was again positioned 1.5 m from workstations. Results indicate that task clarification alone was ineffective, but safe performance increased when eyewear was stored in close proximity to employees. A social validity measure suggested that safe performance among the employees increased to levels comparable to that of an exemplary employee.
Exploring the Use of Dye‐Sensitisation by Visible‐Light as New Approach to Self‐Cleaning Textiles
Authors: Afzal Shabana , Daoud Walid A. , Langford Steven J.
Published: June 2014

Photocatalytic degradation of organic contaminants by self‐cleaning textiles is an efficient method to create green environment and minimise energy consumption. In this work, the concept of dye‐sensitised self‐cleaning textiles has been introduced by incorporating monolayers of meso‐tetra(4‐carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP) on the surface of titania‐coated cotton against methylene blue. Different complexes of TCPP (M = 2H, Fe, Co, Zn, Cu) have been trialled and evaluated for photocatalytic activity and stability. Cotton fabrics coated with TCPP show superior photochemical activity as compared to TiO2‐coated fabrics under visible‐light irradiation. The free base derivative availed the highest photocatalytic efficiency when compared to the metal complexes with Cu∼Fe > Co > Zn. In terms of stability, meso‐tetra(4‐car‐boxyphenyl)porphyrinato copper(II) showed significant stabilisation under photocatalytic conditions when compared to the metal‐free porphyrin and other metal complexes (Cu ≫ Co > 2H > Zn∼Fe). Porphyrins offer great potential in visible‐light self‐cleaning applications.
The role of reaction kinetics and mass transfer in the selective catalytic reduction of NO with NH3 in monolithic reactors
Authors: Muñoz Emilio , Marín Pablo , Ordóñez Salvador , Díez Fernando V.
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

Environmental regulations are moving to tighter control of NOx emissions produced at both stationary and mobile sources. Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NOx with NH3 is an efficient treatment technique capable of operating at high gas flow rates (e.g. using monolithic catalysts) and a wide range of NO concentrations. The aim of this work is to provide guidelines for designing this kind of reactor taking into account both intrinsic kinetics and mass transfer.

RESULTS

Experiments have been done in lab‐scale (0.5 g) and bench‐scale (430 g) reactors operating under different conditions: temperature (150–320 °C), space velocity (WHSV 5360–16100 mol h−1 kgcat−1), oxygen concentration (0–21%) and NH3/NO ratio (0.2–1.2). Temperature has a great influence on the reaction rate, and at least 300 °C is required at a WHSV of 16100 mol h−1 kgcat−1. Oxygen is required in the feed because it participates as reactant in SCR.

CONCLUSIONS

Data obtained from the lab‐scale reactor in the absence of mass transfer limitations have been used to fit an intrinsic kinetic model of the SCR reaction. A more complex model has been used for the bench‐scale reactor accounting for reaction kinetics and mass transfer (internal effectiveness factor was determined) in the monolithic catalyst. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Reduced effects of thyroid hormone on gene expression and metamorphosis in a paedomorphic plethodontid salamander
Authors: Aran Robert P. , Steffen Michael A. , Martin Samuel D. , Lopez Olivia I. , Bonett Ronald M.
Published: June 2014

It has been over a century since Gudernatsch (1912, Wilhelm Roux Arch Entwickl Mech Org 35:457–483) demonstrated that mammalian thyroid gland extracts can stimulate tadpole metamorphosis. Despite the tremendous developmental diversity of amphibians, mechanisms of metamorphosis have mostly been studied in a few model systems. This limits our understanding of the processes that influence the evolution of developmental aberrations. Here we isolated thyroid hormone receptors alpha (TRα) and beta (TRβ) from Oklahoma salamanders (Eurycea tynerensis), which exhibit permanently aquatic (paedomorphic) or biphasic (metamorphic) developmental modes in different populations. We found that TRα and TRβ were upregulated by thyroid hormone (T3) in tail tissues of larvae from metamorphic populations, but basal levels of TR expression and T3 responsiveness were reduced in larvae from paedomorphic populations. Likewise, we found that T3 treatment resulted in complete loss of larval epibranchials in larvae from metamorphic populations, but little to no epibranchial remodeling occurred in larvae from paedomorphic populations over the same duration. This is the first study to directly demonstrate reduced gene expression and metamorphic responses to T3 in a paedomorphic plethodontid compared to metamorphic conspecifics, and the first salamander system to show differential expression of thyroid hormone receptors associated with alternative developmental patterns. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 294–303, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simulating the climate of South Pacific islands using a high resolution model
Authors: Chattopadhyay Mohar , Katzfey Jack
Published: June 2014

Downscaled regional climate simulations for Fiji and Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 3 (CMIP3) Global Coupled Models (GCMs) are carried out as part of the Pacific Climate Change Science Program (PCCSP) using the CSIRO stretched‐grid Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM) for the period 1980–2000. The model simulations are performed at 60 km and at 8 km horizontal resolutions. The higher resolution is chosen to partly resolve the detailed orography of the countries selected, providing insight into the spatial distribution of temperature and precipitation for an individual island that GCMs are unable to represent. The downscaling is carried out in two steps. First, CCAM simulations are run on a global 60 km grid using bias‐corrected sea surface temperatures (SST) and sea ice from six CMIP3 GCMs. Three of these 60 km simulations are then further downscaled to 8 km resolution over the two countries. The focus of this paper is validation of these high‐resolution simulations against gridded analyses, satellite rainfall climatologies and available station data for rainfall and temperature for the period 1980–2000. The results show that high resolution orography plays an important role in capturing the current climate. The validation demonstrates that the 8 km simulations are capable of realistically depicting the current climate when the topography influences the wind flow and rainfall (Fiji), performing better than both the GCMs and the 60 km downscaled simulations. However, the performance of the 8 km simulations is similar to the GCM and 60 km simulations when topographical features are not present (FSM).
Combining randomized and non‐randomized evidence in clinical research: a review of methods and applications
Authors: Verde Pablo E. , Ohmann Christian
Published: June 2014

Researchers may have multiple motivations for combining disparate pieces of evidence in a meta‐analysis, such as generalizing experimental results or increasing the power to detect an effect that a single study is not able to detect. However, while in meta‐analysis, the main question may be simple, the structure of evidence available to answer it may be complex. As a consequence, combining disparate pieces of evidence becomes a challenge. In this review, we cover statistical methods that have been used for the evidence‐synthesis of different study types with the same outcome and similar interventions. For the methodological review, a literature retrieval in the area of generalized evidence‐synthesis was performed, and publications were identified, assessed, grouped and classified. Furthermore real applications of these methods in medicine were identified and described. For these approaches, 39 real clinical applications could be identified. A new classification of methods is provided, which takes into account: the inferential approach, the bias modeling, the hierarchical structure, and the use of graphical modeling. We conclude with a discussion of pros and cons of our approach and give some practical advice. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetics of Degradation of Biapenem
Authors: CIELECKA‐PIONTEK JUDYTA , ZALEWSKI PRZEMYSŁAW , GARBACKI PIOTR , JURA EWELINA , TALACZYŃSKA ALICJA
Published: June 2014

The kinetic and thermodynamic analysis of biapenem degradation was conducted during acid–base hydrolysis, under the influence of buffer components and in the solid state at increased temperature (dry air) and relative air humidity (RH > 50%). The effects of the initial concentration of biapenem and the formation of degradation products on its stability were investigated.
Selection of a right posterior sector graft for living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Ikegami Toru , Kimura Koichi , Uchiyama Hideaki , Ikeda Tetsuo , Shirabe Ken , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: June 2014

Right posterior sector (RPS) grafts have been used to overcome graft size discrepancies, the major concern of living donor liver transplantation. Previous studies have reported the volumetry-based selection of RPS grafts without anatomical exclusion. We reviewed our data and established selection criteria for RPS grafts. The procurement of RPS grafts [conventional (n = 3) and extended (n = 5)] was performed for 8 of 429 recipients at our center. Extended RPS grafts contained the drainage area of the right hepatic vein. The mean graft weight (GW) according to 3-dimensional computed tomography volumetry was 488 g, and the GW/standard liver weight (SLW) ratio was 42.6%. The mean actual GW was 437 g, and the GW/SLW ratio was 38.4%. One donor exhibited standard bifurcation of the right portal vein (PV) and the left PV, and 2 donors exhibited trifurcation of the left PV, the right anterior portal vein (APV), and the posterior PV. The remaining 5 donors exhibited APV branching from the left PV, which is the most suitable anatomy for RPS grafts. Two recipients died of sepsis or small-for-size graft syndrome. One underwent retransplantation because of an intractable bile leak and fibrosing cholestatic hepatitis. Intractable bile duct (BD) stenosis developed in 4 of the 6 survivors. In conclusion, with the significant complications and potential concerns associated with RPS grafts, these grafts should be used very rarely and with extreme caution. Donors with the standard bifurcation of the PV and the posterior BD running through the dorsal side of the posterior PV are not suitable candidates for RPS grafts. Extended RPS graft procurement is recommended for easier parenchymal transection. Liver Transpl 20:1089–1096, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Efficient Terpolymerization of Ethylene and Styrene with 1,7‐Octadiene by Aryloxo Modified Half‐Titanocenes–Cocatalyst Systems: Efficient Introduction of the Reactive Functionality
Authors: Apisuk Wannida , Nomura Kotohiro
Published: June 2014

Terpolymerization of ethylene and styrene (St) with 1,7‐octadiene (OD) using aryloxo‐modified half‐titanocenes, Cp′ TiCl2(O‐2,6‐iPr2C6H3) [Cp′ = Cp* (1), tBuC5H4 (2), 1,2,4‐Me3C5H2 (3)], proceeds with high catalytic activity and efficient comonomer incorporation, affording high‐molecular‐weight polymers with unimodal molecular‐weight distributions (uniform compositions). An efficient introduction of the reactive functionality, terminal olefinic double bonds, into the side‐chain is attained by adopting this method by incorporation of OD without cyclization: the comonomer contents (St, OD) can be controlled by varying the comonomer concentration charged. The resultant polymers possess negligible resonance, ascribed to St–OD repeated insertion.

image
Neuropeptides: Metabolism to Bioactive Fragments and the Pharmacology of Their Receptors
Authors: Hallberg Mathias
Published: June 2014

The proteolytic processing of neuropeptides has an important regulatory function and the peptide fragments resulting from the enzymatic degradation often exert essential physiological roles. The proteolytic processing generates, not only biologically inactive fragments, but also bioactive fragments that modulate or even counteract the response of their parent peptides. Frequently, these peptide fragments interact with receptors that are not recognized by the parent peptides. This review discusses tachykinins, opioid peptides, angiotensins, bradykinins, and neuropeptide Y that are present in the central nervous system and their processing to bioactive degradation products. These well‐known neuropeptide systems have been selected since they provide illustrative examples that proteolytic degradation of parent peptides can lead to bioactive metabolites with different biological activities as compared to their parent peptides. For example, substance P, dynorphin A, angiotensin I and II, bradykinin, and neuropeptide Y are all degraded to bioactive fragments with pharmacological profiles that differ considerably from those of the parent peptides. The review discusses a selection of the large number of drug‐like molecules that act as agonists or antagonists at receptors of neuropeptides. It focuses in particular on the efforts to identify selective drug‐like agonists and antagonists mimicking the effects of the endogenous peptide fragments formed. As exemplified in this review, many common neuropeptides are degraded to a variety of smaller fragments but many of the fragments generated have not yet been examined in detail with regard to their potential biological activities. Since these bioactive fragments contain a small number of amino acid residues, they provide an ideal starting point for the development of drug‐like substances with ability to mimic the effects of the degradation products. Thus, these substances could provide a rich source of new pharmaceuticals. However, as discussed herein relatively few examples have so far been disclosed of successful attempts to create bioavailable, drug‐like agonists or antagonists, starting from the structure of endogenous peptide fragments and applying procedures relying on stepwise manipulations and simplifications of the peptide structures.
Super‐microdissected local flaps for the coverage of temporal defects
Authors: Qassemyar Q. , Gianfermi M. , Sarfati B. , Leymarie N. , Kolb F.
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Skin graft is still a method of choice for the coverage of temporal defects. But there are some disadvantages like a “patch” appearance, the need of dressing or longer healing time. Numbers of local flaps have been described for closing skin defects on temporal region. Yet, they may cause distortion of the surrounding tissues, especially in the temporal hairline and eyebrow. We present a series of seven local flaps based on small branches (SB) of the superficial temporal artery (STA) for the coverage of temporal defects, and discuss their advantages.

Patients and Methods

Supermicrodissection of SB of the STA was performed to obtain local flaps for reconstruction of temporal defects after skin cancer excisions in seven patients. Patient's age ranged from 70 to 88 years old and the diameter of defects ranged from 4 to 6 cm. All procedures were performed under local anesthesia except one. In all cases, defects were obtained after skin cancer excisions. Results: The operative time ranged from 55 to 75 min. All flaps survived with an average follow‐up of 8 months, reconstructions have maintained a cosmetically pleasing result.

Conclusion

We believe that SB flaps may be a new option for reconstruction of temporal defects with the advantages of local flaps, without the inconvenience of a skin pedicle. Moreover, these flaps raise the question of the use of SB based flaps for the coverage of moderate‐sized skin defects anywhere in the body, and open new fields in reconstructive surgery. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 34:554–557, 2014.
A comparative study between para‐aminophenyl and ortho‐aminophenyl benzothiazoles using NMR and DFT calculations
Authors: Pierens G. K. , Venkatachalam T. K. , Reutens D.
Published: June 2014

Ortho‐substituted and para‐substituted aminophenyl benzothiazoles were synthesised and characterised using NMR spectroscopy. A comparison of the proton chemical shift values reveals significant differences in the observed chemical shift values for the NH protons indicating the presence of a hydrogen bond in all ortho‐substituted compounds as compared to the para compounds. The presence of intramolecular hydrogen bond in the ortho amino substituted aminophenyl benzothiazole forces the molecule to be planar which may be an additional advantage in developing these compounds as Alzheimer's imaging agent because the binding to amyloid fibrils prefers planar compounds. The splitting pattern of the methylene proton next to the amino group also showed significant coupling to the amino proton consistent with the notion of the existence of slow exchange and hydrogen bond in the ortho‐substituted compounds. This is further verified by density functional theory calculations which yielded a near planar low energy conformer for all the o‐aminophenyl benzothiazoles and displayed a hydrogen bond from the amine proton to the nitrogen of the thiazole ring. A detailed analysis of the 1H, 13C and 15N NMR chemical shifts and density functional theory calculated structures of the compounds are described. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aleatory uncertainty and scale effects in computational damage models for failure and fragmentation
Authors: Strack O.E. , Leavy R.B. , Brannon R.M.
Published: June 2014

Stress concentrations near grain boundaries, precipitates, and similar micro‐heterogeneities nucleate instabilities leading to macroscale fracture. As it is not practical to model each flaw explicitly, their ensemble effect is modeled statistically. Accounting for this aleatory uncertainty requires smaller specimens (e.g., small finite elements) to have generally higher and more variable strengths, which is necessary for the initial failure probability of a finite domain to be unaffected by its discretization into elements. Localization itself, which might be attributed to constitutive instability, requires realistic numerical perturbations to predict bifurcations such as radial cracking in axisymmetric problems. These perturbations, stemming from microscale heterogeneity, are incorporated in simulations by imposing statistical spatial variability in the parameters of an otherwise conventional (deterministic and scale‐independent) damage model. This approach is attractive for its algorithmic simplicity and straightforward calibration from standard strength tests. In addition, it results in virtually no loss of efficiency or robustness relative to deterministic models and accommodates general three‐dimensional loading. Despite these advantages, some significant challenges remain and are discussed. However, it is demonstrated that including aleatory uncertainty with associated scale effects significantly improves predictiveness on large‐scale computational domains, where it is impractical to resolve each crack or localization zone.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymer blend nanocomposites: effect of mercapto silane modified kaolin clay on the thermal properties of Polypropylene/Polystyrene blend
Authors: Krishnan Asha K. , George K. E.
Published: June 2014

Nanocomposites based on polypropylene/polystyrene blends were prepared by melt mixing in a Thermo Haake Rheochord mixer. The effect of mercapto silane modified kaolin clay on the properties of nanocomposites has been studied. The characterization of polypropylene/polystyrene/clay nanocomposites was made by dynamic mechanical analysis, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscopic, and the thermal stability was determined by using Thermogravimetric analysis. The activation energy of degradation was determined using three mathematical models, namely Horowitz–Metzger, Coats–Redfern and Broido's methods, and the results were compared. TGA results show an improved thermal stability for nanocomposite than the pure blend. The improvement in thermal stability of nanocomposites was confirmed by increasing the activation energy. Transmission electron microscopic observations showed that nanoclay layers were intercalated on the polymer matrix and were located at the interface between the two polymers Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Research on formation mechanisms and control of external and inner bubble morphology in microcellular injection molding
Authors: Wang Gui‐long , Zhao Guo‐qun , Wang Jia‐chang , Zhang Lei
Published: June 2014

This study investigates the formation mechanisms and control of external and inner bubble morphology in MIM. First, the related theories about foaming and filling flow are analyzed. Second, the assumptions for the formation of inner bubble morphology, external bubble morphology, and the compact skin layer in MIM process are proposed based on theoretical analysis. Finally, experiments of MIM process are conducted to verify the theoretical assumptions. In addition, gas counter pressure (GCP) and rapid mold heating and cooling (RMHC) technology are used for control of bubble morphology. It is found that foaming process in MIM can be divided into foaming during filling and foaming during cooling. Foaming during filling produce oriented and deformed bubbles while foaming during cooling produce spherical or polygonal bubbles. As the bubbles formed by foaming during filling can reach melt flow front, they will be pushed to the cavity surface where they are stretched further and frozen to generate the silver or swirl marks. The compact skin layer is formed due to the redissolution of the gases within bubbles into polymer melt and also restraint of foaming by high cavity pressure. GCP and RMHC are two effective methods for controlling external and inner bubble morphology. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:807–835, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanistic aspects of silane coupling agents with different functionalities on reinforcement of silica‐filled natural rubber compounds
Authors: Kaewsakul Wisut , Sahakaro Kannika , Dierkes Wilma K. , Noordermeer Jacques W.M.
Published: June 2014

Silane coupling agents containing different specific functionalities are studied to gain understanding of their roles in silica‐filled natural rubber (NR) compounds. Five different silane coupling agents, that is bis‐(triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfide (TESPT), bis‐(triethoxysilylpropyl) disulfide (TESPD), octyltriethoxysilane, vinyltrimethoxysilane, and bis‐(trimethyl‐silylmethyl) tetrasulfide (TMSMT), are comparatively investigated, by taking the most commonly used TESPT as a reference. The results reveal that alkoxy‐based silanes can effectively reduce the filler–filler interaction and lower compound viscosity owing to the effect of silane‐to‐silica hydrophobation which contributes to better compatibility between silica and NR. The alkoxy‐silanes with a sulfur moiety, that is TESPT and TESPD, show more pronounced improvement in overall properties as a result of filler–rubber interactions. The use of TMSMT which has no alkoxy groups but contains only a sulfur moiety elucidates that there are three reaction mechanisms involved in systems with sulfur‐alkoxy‐based silane. These are as follows: (1) the silane‐to‐silica or silanization/hydrophobation reaction; (2) the silane‐to‐rubber or coupling reaction; and (3) rubber–rubber crosslinking originating from active sulfur released by the polysulfide‐based silane TESPT. These simultaneous reactions are temperature dependent, and show an optimum level at a dump temperature of approximately 140–150°C, as depicted by filler–filler and filler–rubber interactions, as well as mechanical properties of such compounds. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:836–842, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Exploring Project Knowledge Acquisition and Exchange through Action Research
Authors: Algeo Chivonne
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a research methodology used to develop a novel framework for an investigation into how project managers acquire and exchange knowledge. The qualitative study was conducted with six experienced project managers based in Australia. Adopting and augmenting an action research methodology, the data were analyzed using grounded theory techniques. Data collection occurred through four sequential interventions that aligned to three action research cycles. Three additional spin-off cycles were utilized to ensure quality and validity of the research approach with an external reference group. The implications of this research approach are presented for application in future research.
Preparation of polymeric vesicles through ultrasonic treatment of poly(styrene‐block‐2‐vinylpyridine) micelles under alkaline conditions
Authors: Liu Jinhao , Song Lianlian , Zhang Xiaokai , Li Xue
Published: June 2014

An approach for the preparation of block copolymer vesicles through ultrasonic treatment of polystyrene‐block‐poly(2‐vinyl pyridine) (PS‐b‐P2VP) micelles under alkaline conditions is reported. PS‐b‐P2VP block copolymers in toluene, a selective solvent for PS, form spherical micelles. If a small amount of NaOH solution is added to the micelles solution during ultrasonic treatment, organic‐inorganic Janus‐like particles composed of the PS‐b‐P2VP block copolymers and NaOH are generated. After removal of NaOH, block copolymer vesicles are obtained. A possible mechanism for the morphological transition from spherical micelles to vesicles or Janus‐like particles is discussed. If the block copolymer micelles contain inorganic precursors, such as FeCl3, hybrid vesicles are formed, which may be useful as biological and chemical sensors or nanostructured templates. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 953–959
The Effects of Yield Stress and Casing Thickness on Blast Impulse and Fragment Velocity
Authors: Hutchinson Michael D.
Published: June 2014

A previous paper by the author [1] showed how his equation [2], based on the model first proposed by Gurney [3] for the blast impulse from cased munitions, can be modified to allow for the yield stress of the casing metal. This paper [1] also provided validation for this further equation from available experimental data. Further issues regarding the many smaller but significant interactions between the fracturing casing and the expanding gases need to be investigated before it can be said that a complete theory of blast impulse and fragment initial velocity is in place. In this paper, an approximate evaluation will be made of the potential effect and significance of kinetic energy losses, due to dissipation by means of casing strain energy dissipation. As expected, these losses are found to be most significant for thick, low density, high yield stress casings. The effect of finite casing thickness, also not previously considered, has been found to be small.