bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controllable Synthesis of Ultrathin Transition‐Metal Hydroxide Nanosheets and their Extended Composite Nanostructures for Enhanced Catalytic Activity in the Heck Reaction
Authors: Fan Hua , Huang Xing , Shang Lu , Cao Yitao , Zhao Yufei , Wu Li‐Zhu , Tung Chen‐Ho , Yin Yadong , Zhang Tierui
Published: December 2015

We report an effective and universal approach for the preparation of ultrathin single‐ or multiple‐component transition‐metal hydroxide (TMH) nanosheets with thickness below 5 nm. The unique synthesis benefits from the gradual decomposition of the preformed metal–boron (M‐B, M=Fe, Co, Ni, NiCo) composite nanospheres which facilitates the formation of ultrathin nanosheets by the oxidation of the metal and the simultaneous release of boron species. The high specific surface area of the sheets associated with their ultrathin nature promises a wide range of applications. For example, we demonstrate the remarkable adsorption ability of PbII and AsV in waste water by the ultrathin FeOOH nanosheets. More interestingly, the process can be extended simply to the synthesis of composite structures of metal alloy hollow shells encapsulated by TMH nanosheets, which show excellent catalytic activity in the Heck reaction.
Chain Walking of Allylrhodium Species Towards Esters During Rhodium‐Catalyzed Nucleophilic Allylations of Imines
Authors: Martínez Jose I. , Smith Joshua J. , Hepburn Hamish B. , Lam Hon Wai
Published: December 2015

Allylrhodium species derived from δ‐trifluoroboryl β,γ‐unsaturated esters undergo chain walking towards the ester moiety. The resulting allylrhodium species react with imines to give products containing two new stereocenters and a Z‐alkene. By using a chiral diene ligand, products can be obtained with high enantioselectivities, where a pronounced matched/mismatched effect with the chirality of the allyltrifluoroborate is evident.
Facile Generation of Tumor‐pH‐Labile Linkage‐Bridged Block Copolymers for Chemotherapeutic Delivery
Authors: Sun Chun‐Yang , Liu Yang , Du Jin‐Zhi , Cao Zhi‐Ting , Xu Cong‐Fei , Wang Jun
Published: December 2015

Successful bench‐to‐bedside translation of nanomedicine relies heavily on the development of nanocarriers with superior therapeutic efficacy and high biocompatibility. However, the optimal strategy for improving one aspect often conflicts with the other. Herein, we report a tactic of designing tumor‐pH‐labile linkage‐bridged copolymers of clinically validated poly(d,l‐lactide) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG‐Dlinkm‐PDLLA) for safe and effective drug delivery. Upon arriving at the tumor site, PEG‐Dlinkm‐PDLLA nanoparticles will lose the PEG layer and increase zeta potential by responding to tumor acidity, which significantly enhances cellular uptake and improves the in vivo tumor inhibition rate to 78.1 % in comparison to 47.8 % of the non‐responsive control. Furthermore, PEG‐Dlinkm‐PDLLA nanoparticles show comparable biocompatibility with the clinically used PEG‐b‐PDLLA micelle. The improved therapeutic efficacy and safety demonstrate great promise for our strategy in future translational studies.
Imaging Glycosylation In Vivo by Metabolic Labeling and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Neves André A. , Wainman Yéléna A. , Wright Alan , Kettunen Mikko I. , Rodrigues Tiago B. , McGuire Sarah , Hu De‐En , Bulat Flaviu , Geninatti Crich Simonetta , Stöckmann Henning , Leeper Finian J. , Brindle Kevin M.
Published: December 2015

Glycosylation is a ubiquitous post‐translational modification, present in over 50 % of the proteins in the human genome, with important roles in cell–cell communication and migration. Interest in glycome profiling has increased with the realization that glycans can be used as biomarkers of many diseases, including cancer. We report here the first tomographic imaging of glycosylated tissues in live mice by using metabolic labeling and a gadolinium‐based bioorthogonal MRI probe. Significant N‐azidoacetylgalactosamine dependent T1 contrast was observed in vivo two hours after probe administration. Tumor, kidney, and liver showed significant contrast, and several other tissues, including the pancreas, spleen, heart, and intestines, showed a very high contrast (>10‐fold). This approach has the potential to enable the rapid and non‐invasive magnetic resonance imaging of glycosylated tissues in vivo in preclinical models of disease.
Lipid production of microalga Chlorella sorokiniana CY1 is improved by light source arrangement, bioreactor operation mode and deep‐sea water supplements
Authors: Chen Chun-Yen , Chang Hsin‐Yueh
Published: December 2015

Microalgae‐based biodiesel has been recognized as a sustainable and promising alternative to fossil diesel. High lipid productivity of microalgae is required for economic production of biodiesel from microalgae. This study was undertaken to enhance the growth and oil accumulation of an indigenous microalga Chlorella sorokiniana CY1 by applying engineering strategies using deep‐sea water as the medium. First, the microalga was cultivated using LED as the immersed light source, and the results showed that the immersed LED could effectively enhance the oil/lipid content and final microalgal biomass concentration to 53.8% and 2.5 g/l, respectively. Next, the semi‐batch photobioreactor operation with deep‐sea water was shown to improve lipid content and microalgal growth over those from using batch and continuous cultures under similar operating conditions. The optimal replacement ratio was 50%, resulting in an oil/lipid content and final biomass concentration of 61.5% and 2.8 g/l, respectively. A long‐term semi‐batch culture utilizing 50%‐replaced medium was carried out for four runs. The final biomass concentration and lipid productivity were 2.5 g/L and 112.2 mg/L/d, respectively. The fatty acid composition of the microalgal lipids was predominant by palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid and linoleic acid, and this lipid quality is suitable for biodiesel production. This demonstrates that optimizing light source arrangement, bioreactor operation and deep‐sea water supplements could effectively promote the lipid production of C. sorokiniana CY1 for the applications in microalgae‐based biodiesel industry.
Sensitive method for the determination of rocilinostat in small volume mouse plasma by LC‐MS/MS and its application to a pharmacokinetic study in mice
Authors: Gupta Manish , Dixit Abhishek , Devaraj V. C. , Zainuddin Mohd , Bhamidipati Ravi Kanth , Hallur Mahanandeesha S. , Dewang Purushottam , Rajagopal Sridharan , Rajagopal Sriram , Mullangi Ramesh
Published: December 2015

A highly sensitive, specific and rapid LC‐ESI‐MS/MS method has been developed and validated for the quantification of rocilinostat in small volume mouse plasma (20 μL) using vorinostat as an internal standard (IS) as per regulatory guidelines. Sample preparation was accomplished through a protein precipitation procedure with acetonitrile. Chromatography was achieved on Prodigy ODS‐2 column using a binary gradient using mobile phase A (0.2% formic acid in water) and B (acetonitrile) at a flow rate of 0.38 mL/min. The total chromatographic run time was 4.1 min and the elution of rocilinostat and IS occurred at ~3.2 and 2.9 min, respectively. A linear response function was established in the concentration range of 0.28–1193 ng/mL in mouse plasma. The intra‐ and inter‐day accuracy and precisions were in the ranges of 3.12–8.93 and 6.41–11.6%, respectively. This novel method has been applied to a pharmacokinetic study in mice. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of Isoprenoid Pheromone Biosynthesis in Bumblebee Males
Authors: Prchalová Darina , Buček Aleš , Brabcová Jana , Žáček Petr , Kindl Jiří , Valterová Irena , Pichová Iva
Published: December 2015

Males of the closely related species Bombus terrestris and Bombus lucorum attract conspecific females by completely different marking pheromones. MP of B. terrestris and B. lucorum pheromones contain mainly isoprenoid (ISP) compounds and fatty acid derivatives, respectively. Here, we studied the regulation of ISP biosynthesis in both bumblebees. RNA‐seq and qRT‐PCR analyses indicated that acetoacetyl‐CoA thiolase (AACT), 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase (HMGR), and farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FPPS) transcripts are abundant in the B. terrestris labial gland. Maximal abundance of these transcripts correlated well with AACT enzymatic activity detected in the LG extracts. In contrast, transcript abundances of AACT, HMGR, and FPPS in B. lucorum were low, and AACT activity was not detected in LGs. These results suggest that transcriptional regulation plays a key role in the control of ISP biosynthetic gene expression and ISP pheromone biosynthesis in bumblebee males.
Pathways to Results: How Practitioners Address Student Access, Outcomes, and Equity in an Associate Degree Nursing Program
Authors: Pickel Jessica , Bragg Debra D.
Published: December 2015

At a time when the nation is focusing so much attention on college completion, what do we know about how students are completing their community college programs? Does the open‐access mission of community colleges translate into equitable outcomes? Pathways to Results (PTR) engages practitioners in using data to close equity gaps for student groups historically underserved by postsecondary education. This chapter describes the experiences of practitioners at Richland Community College who implemented PTR to improve student access, outcomes, and equity in an associate degree nursing program.
Salt Lake Community College Veterans Services: A Model of Serving Veterans in Higher Education
Authors: Ahern Aaron , Foster Michael , Head Darlene
Published: December 2015

This chapter outlines the birth and growth of a veterans’ program in Salt Lake City, Utah, and discusses next steps in spurring additional innovations and advancements to improve service for student veterans in community colleges.
Global Reaction Kinetics of CO and CO2 Methanation for Dynamic Process Modeling
Authors: Rönsch Stefan , Köchermann Jakob , Schneider Jens , Matthischke Steffi
Published: December 2015

For the design and optimization of methfanation processes detailed modeling and simulation work is advisable. However, only a few kinetics published in literature rely on wide temperature and pressure ranges, which are prevalent at modern methanation applications with dynamic operation. Especially the simulation‐based design of methanation processes with commercial catalysts is difficult due to legal restrictions regarding the publication of kinetic data of those catalysts. In this work, rate equations for the dynamic modeling and simulation of methanation processes operating with commercial Ni/Al2O3 catalysts are selected, adapted, and tested in a dynamic reactor model. The results suggest that the catalyst's nickel content is an indicator for the choice of a rate equation. Testing of the equations in a reactor model meets published data for CO and CO2 methanation and own measurements.
Color Bricks: Building Highly Organized and Strongly Absorbing Multicomponent Arrays of Terpyridyl Perylenes on Metal Oxide Surfaces
Authors: Sariola‐Leikas Essi , Ahmed Zafar , Vivo Paola , Ojanperä Anniina , Lahtonen Kimmo , Saari Jesse , Valden Mika , Lemmetyinen Helge , Efimov Alexander
Published: December 2015

Terpyridine‐substituted perylenes containing cyclic anhydrides in the peri position were synthesized. The anhydride group served as an anchor for assembly of the terpyridyl‐crowned chromophores as monomolecular layers on metal oxide surfaces. Further coordination with Zn2+ ions allowed for layer‐by‐layer formation of supramolecular assemblies of perylene imides on the solid substrates. With properly selected anchor and linker molecules it was possible to build high quality structures of greater than ten successive layers by a simple and straightforward procedure. The prepared films were stable and had a broad spectral coverage and high absorbance. To demonstrate their potential use, the synthesized dyes were employed in solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells, and electron injection from the perylene antennas to titanium dioxide was observed.
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Enantioselective Michael Addition of Nitroalkanes to Enones and Its Application in Syntheses of (R)‐Baclofen and (R)‐Phenibut.
Authors: Guo Xing‐Tao , Shen Jie , Sha Feng , Wu Xin‐Yan
Published: December 2015

The reaction delivers γ‐nitro ketones in high yields and with very high enantioselectivity and has a broad substrate scope.
How absorptive capacity moderates the value of firm innovativeness in turbulent markets
Authors: Tsai Kuen‐Hung , Yang Shu‐Yi
Published: December 2015

Drawing on the complementarity perspective and contingent resource‐based theory, this study develops a moderated moderation framework to investigate how absorptive capacity moderates the value of firm innovativeness under market turbulence. The results of the survey data from 402 firms reveal that the efficacy of firm innovativeness is not universal but simultaneously contingent on absorptive capacity and market turbulence. Furthermore, absorptive capacity does not always enhance the value of firm innovativeness; the positive moderating effect of absorptive capacity manifests itself only when market turbulence is relatively high. These findings also highlight that change in customer needs is a key factor affecting the complementarity of relevant resources and capabilities. Thus, this study contributes to advances in theory and has new practical implications. Copyright © 2015 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Earnings persistence, fundamentals, and anticipation of breaking earnings strings
Authors: Yao Li.
Published: December 2015

Using a sample of firms with consecutive earnings growth for more than 20 quarters (earnings strings), I assess the relationship between earnings persistence and the extent to which investors are able to anticipate breaks of earnings strings. I find that firm‐specific earnings persistence exhibits a concave trend during earnings strings. Stock returns are significantly and positively associated with earnings persistence. Upon breaks of earnings strings, investors’ reactions are more negative for firms with higher earnings persistence—especially those with smaller institutional holdings and analyst coverage, and those with insider selling activities—before the break. Additional analyses show that variations in firms’ economic performance (fundamentals) explain the varying earnings persistence during earnings strings. Copyright © 2015 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of ultrafine manganese dioxide by micro‐impinging stream reactors and its electrochemical properties
Authors: Liu Zhi‐Wei , Zhang Qing‐Cheng , Wen Li‐Xiong , Chen Jian‐Feng
Published: December 2015

Ultrafine manganese dioxide (MnO2) was synthesized by a micro‐impinging stream reactor (MISR) built from commercial T‐junctions and steel micro‐capillaries. The α‐type MnO2 particles prepared by the MISR were of spherical morphology, ∼120 nm in diameter and ∼200 m2 · g−1 in specific surface area. The particles were smaller and more uniform than those produced with traditional stirred reactors. It was also found that the morphologies and discharge specific capacitance (SC), examined by cyclic voltammograms (CV) and galvanostatic charge/discharge methods, of the prepared MnO2 depended strongly on the inlet velocity (u), volumetric flow ratio (q), and chamber configuration of the MISR. The as‐prepared MnO2 under optimized conditions had a discharge specific capacitance of ∼211 F · g−1 and showed a capacitance decline of ∼18 % after 1000 cycles. These values were superior to those of particles produced with stirred reactors and further confirmed the intensifying effects on micromixing behaviours of MISRs. Therefore, a MISR with good micromixing performance, short preparation time, and continuous operation will be a promising technology for the preparation of ultrafine particles.
Removal of Nitroaniline From Water/Ethanol by Electrocoagulation Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Tamne Guy Bertrand , Nanseu‐Njiki Charles Peguy , Bodoki Ede , Săndulescu Robert , Oprean Radu , Ngameni Emmanuel
Published: December 2015

The efficiency of electrocoagulation using iron electrodes (Fe0) for the removal of aqueous nitroaniline derivatives (ortho‐, meta‐, para‐) was optimized. Investigated operational parameters include: (i) the current density (318–1542 A/m2); (ii) the pH value (1–11); and (iii) the ethanol level (1–25%). Experimentally, both classical method and response surface methodology were used. Additionally, the D‐optimal design was used to characterize the interactions between current intensity, initial pH value and ethanol level. Using the D‐optimal design aimed at characterizing the impact of ethanol level on the extent of nitroaniline removal. The results showed that the optimal conditions for efficient nitroaniline removal were the following: (i) 5 min electrolysis time; (ii) 200 mg/L initial nitroaniline concentration; (iii) 1274 A/m2 current density; (iv) 6 g/L NaCl; (v) initial pH value of 11; and (vi) 1% ethanol level. It appears that the current intensity (current density) is the most influential parameter, followed by the pH value and the ethanol level. The experimental setup was validated by successfully treating river water contaminated with tested nitroanilines under optimal conditions.
Main applications of hybrid PET‐MRI contrast agents: a review
Authors: Kiani A. , Esquevin A. , Lepareur N. , Bourguet P. , Le Jeune F. , Gauvrit JY.
Published: December 2015

In medical imaging, the continuous quest to improve diagnostic performance and optimize treatment strategies has led to the use of combined imaging modalities. Positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) is a hybrid imaging existing already for many years. The high spatial and contrast resolution of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the high sensitivity and molecular information from PET imaging are leading to the development of this new hybrid imaging along with hybrid contrast agents. To create a hybrid contrast agent for PET‐MRI device, a PET radiotracer needs to be combined with an MRI contrast agent. The most common approach is to add a radioactive isotope to the surface of a small superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) particle. The resulting agents offer a wide range of applications, such as pH variation monitoring, non‐invasive angiography and early imaging diagnosis of atherosclerosis. Oncology is the most promising field with the detection of sentinel lymph nodes and the targeting of tumor neoangiogenesis. Oncology and cardiovascular imaging are thus major areas of development for hybrid PET‐MRI imaging systems and hybrid contrast agents. The aim is to combine high spatial resolution, high sensitivity, morphological and functional information. Future prospects include the use of specific antibodies and hybrid multimodal PET‐MRI‐ultrasound‐fluorescence imaging with the potential to provide overall pre‐, intra‐ and postoperative patient care. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis and comparison of the NDPs of various national annexes of Eurocode 6 / Analyse und Vergleich der NDPs verschiedener nationaler Anhänge zu Eurocode 6
Authors: Graubner Carl‐Alexander , Koob Benjamin
Published: December 2015

In the national annexes of Eurocode 6, the individual European Member States can define values for nationally determined parameters in various places or add regulations which are not in contradiction to the current European provisions. Consequently – despite a harmonized Eurocode 6 – the normative regulations of the individual Member States differ more or less. However, in the sense of practicability of the standards in Europe, it should be the aim to develop a European standard which is as uniform as possible and which has not to be applied in significantly different ways due to the national regulations. In order to better understand the interests of the other Member States for future generations of standards and to derive potentials of harmonization, the values of the Nationally Determined Parameters (NDPs) of various Member States are compared in this paper. In this context, the extent of the deviations between the different national annexes is examined and on this basis a possible potential of harmonization is identified.
Biophysical controls on canopy transpiration in a black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) plantation on the semi‐arid Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Jiao Lei , Lu Nan , Sun Ge , Ward Eric J. , Fu Bojie
Published: December 2015

In the semi‐arid Loess Plateau of China, black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) was widely planted for soil conservation and afforestation purposes during the past three decades. Investigating biophysical controls on canopy transpiration (Ec) of the plantations is essential to understanding the effects of afforestation on watershed hydrology and regional water resources. In addition to monitoring of micrometeorology and soil water content, sap flux densities (Fd) of six representative trees in a 27‐year stand were continuously measured using thermal dissipation probes during the growing seasons in 2013 and 2014. Ec was derived by multiplying stand total sapwood area (AST) with Fd. The daily mean Ec in the growing season was 0.14 and 0.23 mm day−1 in 2013 and 2014, respectively. The responses of daily Ec to Rs and vapour pressure deficit were explained with an exponential threshold model. The variability of monthly Ec was mainly explained by leaf area index (LAI) (R2 = 0.92). The inter‐annual variability of Ec was influenced by LAI that fluctuated dramatically during 2013 and 2014. We found that the status of soil water content at the beginning of the growing season had large impacts on LAI and Ec during the growing season. Contrary to common beliefs that the plantation uses a large amount of water, we found that the black locust plantation had rather low transpiration rates (5.3% of precipitation and 4.6% of ET0). This study suggests that the black locust plantation has adapted to local soil water condition by reducing transpiration, and the major water loss from the plantation was not transpiration. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase‐Transfer‐Catalyzed Oxazirid­ine‐Mediated Hydroxylative Phenol and Naphthol Dearomatization
Authors: Grandclaudon Charlotte , Toullec Patrick Y.
Published: December 2015

A new methodology for the dearomative ortho‐hydroxylation of substituted phenolic substrates is reported. In the presence of a phase‐transfer catalyst and a base, N‐sulfonyloxaziridines react with phenols to give the corresponding 6‐alkyl‐6‐hydroxycyclohexadienone products in moderate to good yields. The reaction proceeds in fair to good yields and excellent chemoselectivity for 2,6‐disubstituted phenols, 1‐naphthols, and 2‐naphthols.
Beach Morphodynamics influenced by an ebb‐tidal delta on the north Florida Atlantic coast
Authors: Adams Peter N. , Keough Katherine Malone , Olabarrieta Maitane
Published: December 2015

Tidal inlets interrupt longshore sediment transport, thereby exerting an influence on adjacent beach morphology. To investigate the details and spatial extent of an inlet's influence, we examine beach topographic change along a 1.5 km coastal reach adjacent to Matanzas Inlet, on the Florida Atlantic coast. Analyses of beach morphology reveal a behavioral change between 0.64 and 0.86 km from the inlet channel centerline, interpreted to represent the spatial extent of inlet influence. Beyond this boundary, the beach is narrow, exhibits a statistically significant inverse correlation of shoreline position with offshore wave conditions, and has a uniform alongshore pattern in temporal behavior, as determined from empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis. On the inlet side of the boundary, the beach experiences monotonic widening (with proximity to the inlet), lacks spatial consistency in correlation between shoreline position and wave conditions, and exhibits an irregular pattern in spatial EOF modes. We augment the field observations with numerical modeling that provides calculations of wave setup and nearshore current patterns near the inlet, highlighting the effects of the ebb‐tidal delta on the assailing waves. The modeling results are verified by a natural experiment that occurred during May 2009, when a storm‐produced sedimentary mass accreted to the lower beach, then subsequently split into two oppositely directed waves of sediment that migrated away from the initial accretion site in the subsequent months. Our results suggest that the ebb‐tidal delta produces a pattern of wave setup that creates a pressure gradient driving an alongshore flow that opposes the longshore currents derived from breaking of obliquely oriented incident waves. The resulting recirculation pattern on the margin of the ebb‐tidal delta provides a mechanism through which the inlet influences adjacent barrier island beach morphology. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Defining the role of omics in assessing ecosystem health: Perspectives from the Canadian environmental monitoring program
Authors: Bahamonde Paulina A. , Feswick April , Isaacs Meghan A. , Munkittrick Kelly R. , Martyniuk Christopher J.
Published: December 2015

Scientific reviews and studies continue to describe omics technologies as the next generation of tools for environmental monitoring, while cautioning that there are limitations and obstacles to overcome. However, omics has not yet transitioned into national environmental monitoring programs designed to assess ecosystem health. Using the example of the Canadian Environmental Effects Monitoring (EEM) program, the authors describe the steps that would be required for omics technologies to be included in such an established program. These steps include baseline collection of omics endpoints across different species and sites to generate a range of what is biologically normal within a particular ecosystem. Natural individual variability in the omes is not adequately characterized and is often not measured in the field, but is a key component to an environmental monitoring program, to determine the critical effect size or action threshold for management. Omics endpoints must develop a level of standardization, consistency, and rigor that will allow interpretation of the relevance of changes across broader scales. To date, population-level consequences of routinely measured endpoints such as reduced gonad size or intersex in fish is not entirely clear, and the significance of genome-wide molecular, proteome, or metabolic changes on organism or population health is further removed from the levels of ecological change traditionally managed. The present review is not intended to dismiss the idea that omics will play a future role in large-scale environmental monitoring studies, but rather outlines the necessary actions for its inclusion in regulatory monitoring programs focused on assessing ecosystem health. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:20–35. © 2015 SETAC
Adverse health effects and histological changes in white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) exposed to dietary selenomethionine
Authors: Zee Jenna , Patterson Sarah , Gagnon Danielle , Hecker Markus
Published: December 2015

It has been shown that selenium (Se) released to the aquatic environment can have devastating effects on local wildlife. White sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) have a life history particularly susceptible to contaminants, and their protection is of interest as they are culturally and economically important, and many populations are classified as endangered. During the present 72-d dietary study, multiple signs of decreased health and Se lethality were observed. Juvenile white sturgeon were given diets containing 1.4 μg, 5.6 μg, 22.4 μg, or 104.4 μg selenomethionine/g food (dry mass). Selenium accumulated in muscle and liver tissue in a dose-dependent manner. Edema causing exophthalmos developed within 15 d and 23 d, and lethal effects occurred in 54% and 22% of fish in the high- and medium-dose groups, respectively. Growth and hepatosomatic index were significantly lower in the high-dose group, which also had a high incidence of food avoidance. Histology of the liver revealed a dose-dependent increase in melanomacrophage aggregates and decrease of energy stores, which indicated toxicity. These results indicate that white sturgeon are susceptible to the effects of Se accumulation over relatively short time periods. This stresses the need for continued sturgeon research and studies looking into the environmental fate and regulation of released Se. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1741–1750. © 2015 SETAC
PEFC Simulator and Real Time Monitoring System
Authors: Andújar J. M. , Segura F.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents a free software tool with two features of great interest to the community that researches, teaches/learns and professionally works in the field of polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC): (i) A simulator for training on the actual operation of a PEFC. This simulator consists on a free software tool which even allows simulating real situations like failures and breakdowns. This developed software tool helps to understand how fuel cells operate and what devices are needed to build a fuel cell system starting from the stack up to configure the whole system, and how it is possible to handle hydrogen systems without more risk than any other system based on conventional fuels; (ii) A real time monitoring system which allows have at user's disposal several variables of interest to analyze the operation of a fuel cell system (stack + BoP; Balance of Plant or all the subsystems and devices that, around the stack, make a fuel cell works properly). Additionally, the developed software tool allows processing data, obtain polarization and power curves, make statistics and even some comparisons between data obtained from the simulator and the real time monitoring system.
An Examination of Organizational Change Through Nevada's Emerging Hispanic‐Serving Institutions
Authors: Martinez Magdalena
Published: December 2015

There is limited research on how postsecondary institutions prepare to become HSIs. This chapter examines organizational change through a group of emerging HSIs and their governance, policy, and leadership.
“A pesar de todo” (Despite Everything): The Persistence of Latina Graduate Engineering Students at a Hispanic‐Serving Institution
Authors: Aguirre‐Covarrubias Sandra , Arellano Eduardo , Espinoza Penelope
Published: December 2015

This chapter discusses a mixed‐methods study of personal and programmatic factors that affected persistence of Latina graduate engineering students at a Hispanic‐serving institution (HSI). The study's findings enabled us to share recommendations that may be useful to HSIs and other colleges and universities.
Individual and Regional‐level Factors Contributing to Variation in Length of Stay After Cerebral Infarction in Six European Countries
Authors: Peltola Mikko , Seppälä Timo T. , Malmivaara Antti , Belicza Éva , Numerato Dino , Goude Fanny , Fletcher Eilidh , Heijink Richard ,   on behalf of the EuroHOPE study group
Published: December 2015

Using patient‐level data for cerebral infarction cases in 2007, gathered from Finland, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Scotland and Sweden, we studied the variation in risk‐adjusted length of stay (LoS) of acute hospital care and 1‐year mortality, both within and between countries. In addition, we analysed the variance of LoS and associations of selected regional‐level factors with LoS and 1‐year mortality after cerebral infarction. The data show that LoS distributions are surprisingly different across countries and that there is significant deviation in the risk‐adjusted regional‐level LoS in all of the countries studied. We used negative binomial regression to model the individual‐level LoS, and random intercept models and ordinary least squares regression for the regional‐level analysis of risk‐adjusted LoS, variance of LoS, 1‐year risk‐adjusted mortality and crude mortality for a period of 31–365 days. The observed variations between regions and countries in both LoS and mortality were not fully explained by either patient‐level or regional‐level factors. The results indicate that there may exist potential for efficiency gains in acute hospital care of cerebral infarction and that healthcare managers could learn from best practices. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parameter Heterogeneity In Breast Cancer Cost Regressions – Evidence From Five European Countries
Authors: Smith Joel , Banks Helen , Campbell Harry , Douglas Anne , Fletcher Eilidh , McCallum Alison , Moger Tron Anders , Peltola Mikko , Sveréus Sofia , Wild Sarah , Williams Linda J. , Forbes John ,   on behalf of the EuroHOPE study group
Published: December 2015

We investigate parameter heterogeneity in breast cancer 1‐year cumulative hospital costs across five European countries as part of the EuroHOPE project. The paper aims to explore whether conditional mean effects provide a suitable representation of the national variation in hospital costs. A cohort of patients with a primary diagnosis of invasive breast cancer (ICD‐9 codes 174 and ICD‐10 C50 codes) is derived using routinely collected individual breast cancer data from Finland, the metropolitan area of Turin (Italy), Norway, Scotland and Sweden. Conditional mean effects are estimated by ordinary least squares for each country, and quantile regressions are used to explore heterogeneity across the conditional quantile distribution. Point estimates based on conditional mean effects provide a good approximation of treatment response for some key demographic and diagnostic specific variables (e.g. age and ICD‐10 diagnosis) across the conditional quantile distribution. For many policy variables of interest, however, there is considerable evidence of parameter heterogeneity that is concealed if decisions are based solely on conditional mean results. The use of quantile regression methods reinforce the need to consider beyond an average effect given the greater recognition that breast cancer is a complex disease reflecting patient heterogeneity. © 2015 The Authors. Health Economics Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
European Regional Differences in All‐Cause Mortality and Length of Stay for Patients with Hip Fracture
Authors: Medin Emma , Goude Fanny , Melberg Hans Olav , Tediosi Fabrizio , Belicza Eva , Peltola Mikko ,   on behalf of the EuroHOPE study group
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study was to compare healthcare performance for the surgical treatment of hip fractures across and within Finland, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, and Sweden. Differences in age‐adjusted and sex‐adjusted 30‐day and one‐year all‐cause mortality rates following hip fracture, as well as the length of stay of the first hospital episode in acute care and during a follow up of 365 days, were investigated, and associations between selected country‐level and regional‐level factors with mortality and length of stay were assessed.

Hungary showed the highest one‐year mortality rate (mean 39.7%) and the lowest length of stay in one year (12.7 days), whereas Italy had the lowest one‐year mortality rate (mean 19.1 %) and the highest length of stay (23.3 days). The observed variations were largely explained by country‐specific effects rather than by regional‐level factors. The results show that there should still be room for efficiency gains in the acute treatment of hip fracture, and clinicians, healthcare managers, and politicians should learn from best practices. This study demonstrates that an international comparison of acute hospital care is possible using pooled individual‐level administrative data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Window on Geographic Variation in Health Care: Insights from EuroHOPE
Authors: Heijink Richard , Engelfriet Peter , Rehnberg Clas , Kittelsen Sverre A. C. , Häkkinen Unto ,   on behalf of the EuroHOPE study group
Published: December 2015

The aim of EuroHOPE was to provide new evidence on the performance of healthcare systems, using a disease‐based approach, linkable patient‐level data and internationally standardized methods. This paper summarizes its main results. In the seven EuroHOPE countries, the Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), stroke and hip fracture patient populations were similar with regard to age, sex and comorbidity. However, non‐negligible geographic variation in mortality and resource use was found to exist. Survival rates varied to similar extents between countries and regions for AMI, stroke, hip fracture and very low birth weight. Geographic variation in length of stay differed according to type of disease. Regression analyses showed that only a small part of geographic variation could be explained by demand and supply side factors. Furthermore, the impact of these factors varied between countries. The findings show that there is room for improvement in performance at all levels of analysis and call for more in‐depth disease‐based research. In using international patient‐level data and a standardized methodology, the EuroHOPE approach provides a promising stepping‐stone for future investigations in this field. Still, more detailed patient and provider information, including outside of hospital care, and better data sharing arrangements are needed to reach a more comprehensive understanding of geographic variations in health care. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel approach for estimating karst groundwater recharge in mountainous regions and its application in Switzerland
Authors: Malard Arnauld , Sinreich Michael , Jeannin Pierre‐Yves
Published: December 2015

A pragmatic and simple approach for estimating the groundwater recharge of karst aquifers in mountainous regions by extrapolation of the hydrological regimes of gauged and well‐documented systems is presented. Specific discharge rates are derived using annual precipitation and spring measurements by taking into account catchment size and elevation, which are assumed to be the dominant factors. Reference sites with high data reliability are used for calibration and regional extrapolation. This is performed with normalized values employing spatial precipitation deviations and correlation with the elevation of the catchment areas. A tiered step procedure provides minimum and maximum normalized gradients for the relationship between recharge quantity and elevation for karst regions. The normalized recharge can therefore be obtained and extrapolated for any location using the spatial precipitation variability to provide an estimate of annual groundwater recharge.

The approach was applied to Switzerland (approximately 7500 km2 of karst terrain situated between 200 and over 4000 m a.s.l.) using annual precipitation data from meteorological stations for the years 2000 to 2011. Results show that the average recharge rates of different Swiss karst domains range from 20 to 46 L/km2s, which corresponds to an infiltration ratio between 0.6 and 0.9 of total precipitation. Despite uncertainties inherent in the approach, these results provide a benchmark for renewable karst groundwater resources in Switzerland of about 8.4 km3/year. The approach can be applied to any other mountainous karst region, that is, where a clear relationship between elevation, precipitation and recharge can be assumed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Exposure‐Response of a Fixed‐Dose Combination of Azilsartan Medoxomil and Chlorthalidone in Patients With Stage 2 Hypertension
Authors: Tsai Max C. , Wu Jingtao , Kupfer Stuart , Vakilynejad Majid
Published: December 2015

Population pharmacokinetic and exposure‐response models for azilsartan medoxomil (AZL‐M) and chlorthalidone (CLD) were developed using data from an 8‐week placebo‐controlled phase 3, factorial study of 20, 40, and 80 mg AZL‐M every day (QD) and 12.5 and 25 mg CLD QD in fixed‐dose combination (FDC) in subjects with moderate to severe essential hypertension. A 2‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination was developed to describe pharmacokinetics. An Emax model for exposure‐response analysis evaluated AZL‐M/CLD effects on ambulatory systolic blood pressure (SBP). Estimated oral clearance and apparent volume of distribution (central compartment) were 1.47 L/h and 3.98 L for AZL, and 4.13 L/h and 62.1 L for CLD. Age as a covariate had the largest effect on AZL and CLD exposure (±20% change). Predicted maximal SBP responses (Emax) were –15.6 and –23.9 mm Hg for AZL and CLD. Subgroup analysis identified statistically significant Emax differences for black vs nonblack subjects, whereby the reduced AZL response in black subjects was offset by greater response to CLD. The estimated Emax for AZL and CLD was generally greater in subjects with higher baseline BP. In conclusion, no dose adjustments to AZL‐M or CLD are warranted based on identified covariates, and antihypertensive efficacy of AZL‐M/CLD combination therapy is comparable in black and nonblack subjects.
Gait alterations can reduce the risk of edge loading
Authors: Wesseling Mariska , Meyer Christophe , De Groote Friedl , Corten Kristoff , Simon Jean‐Pierre , Desloovere Kaat , Jonkers Ilse
Published: December 2015

Following metal‐on‐metal hip arthroplasty, edge loading (i.e., loading near the edge of a prosthesis cup) can increase wear and lead to early revision. The position and coverage angle of the prosthesis cup influence the risk of edge loading. This study investigates the effect of altered gait patterns, more specific hip, and pelvis kinematics, on the orientation of hip contact force and the consequent risk of antero‐superior edge loading using muscle driven simulations of gait. With a cup orientation of 25° anteversion and 50° inclination and a coverage angle of 168°, many gait patterns presented risk of edge loading. Specifically at terminal double support, 189 out of 405 gait patterns indicated a risk of edge loading. At this time instant, the high hip contact forces and the proximity of the hip contact force to the edge of the cup indicated the likelihood of the occurrence of edge loading. Although the cup position contributed most to edge loading, altering kinematics considerably influenced the risk of edge loading. Increased hip abduction, resulting in decreasing hip contact force magnitude, and decreased hip extension, resulting in decreased risk on edge loading, are gait strategies that could prevent edge loading. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:1069–1076, 2016.
Characterization of the multiple components of Acanthopanax Senticosus stem by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Sun Hui , Liu Jianhua , Zhang Aihua , Zhang Ying , Meng Xiangcai , Han Ying , Zhang Yingzhi , Wang Xijun
Published: December 2015

Acanthopanax Senticosus Harms. has been used widely in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of chronic bronchitis, neurasthenia, hypertension and ischemic heart disease. However, the in vivo constituents of the stem of Acanthopanax Senticosus remain unknown. In this paper, ultra high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and the MarkerLynxTM software combined with multiple data processing approach were used to study the constituents in vitro and in vivo. The aqueous extract from the Acanthopanax Senticosus stem and the compositions in rat serum after intragastric administration were completely analyzed. Consequently, 115 compounds in the aqueous extract from Acanthopanax Senticosus stem and 41 compounds absorbed into blood were characterized. Of the 115 compounds in vitro, 54 were reported for first time, including sinapyl alcohol, sinapyl alcohol diglucoside, and 1‐O‐sinapoyl‐β‐d‐glucose. In the 41 compounds in vivo, 7 were prototype components and 34 were metabolites which were from 21 components of aqueous extract from Acanthopanax Senticosus stem, and the metabolic pathways of the metabolites were elucidated for first time. The results narrowed the range of screening the active components and provided a basis for the study of action mechanism and pharmacology.
Molecularly imprinted porous beads for the selective removal of copper ions
Authors: Younis M. Rizwan , Bajwa Sadia Z. , Lieberzeit Peter A. , Khan Waheed S. , Mujahid Adnan , Ihsan Ayesha , Rehman Asma
Published: December 2015

In the present work, novel molecularly imprinted polymer porous beads for the selective separation of copper ions have been synthesized by combining two material‐structuring techniques, namely, molecular imprinting and oil‐in‐water‐in‐oil emulsion polymerization. This method produces monodisperse spherical beads with an average diameter of ∼2–3 mm, in contrast to adsorbents produced in the traditional way of grinding and sieving. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy indicates that the beads are porous in nature with interconnected pores of about 25–50 μm. Brunner–Emmett–Teller analysis shows that the ion‐imprinted beads possess a high surface area (8.05 m2/g), and the total pore volume is determined to be 0.00823 cm3/g. As a result of the highly porous nature and ion‐imprinting, the beads exhibit a superior adsorption capacity (84 mg/g) towards copper than the non‐imprinted material (22 mg/g). Furthermore, selectivity studies indicate that imprinted beads show splendid recognizing ability, that is, nearly fourfold greater selective binding for Cu2+ in comparison to the other bivalent ions such as Mn2+, Ni2+, Co2+, and Ca2+. The imprinted composite beads prepared in this study possess uniform porous morphology and may open up new possibilities for the selective removal of copper ions from waste water/contaminated matrices.
Development of ultrasound‐assisted emulsification microextraction based on solidification of a floating organic droplet for determination of organochlorine pesticides in water samples
Authors: Shu Bin , Yang Zhaoguang , Lee Hsiaowan , Qiu Bo , Li Haipu
Published: December 2015

An ultrasound‐assisted emulsification microextraction based on the solidification of a floating organic droplet followed by gas chromatography with electron capture detection was developed for the simultaneous determination of 13 organochlorine pesticides in water samples. In the proposed method, ultrasound was applied to achieve the emulsification without addition of any dispersive solvent. In consequence, the volume of extraction phase remained unaffected by the ion strength of aqueous phase and high extraction recoveries were obtained. It was also found that dilution of the floating phase with acetone was necessary for preventing peak splitting in chromatogram. Under optimal conditions, the proposed method provided good sensitivity (the detection limits of organochlorine pesticides ranged from 1.3 to 3.9 ng/L) and good repeatability of extraction (below 6.5%, n = 5). The recoveries in reservoir and river water samples were between 75.8% and 96.9%.
Magnetic solid‐phase extraction based on a triethylenetetramine‐functionalized magnetic graphene oxide composite for the detection of ten trace phenolic environmental estrogens in environmental water
Authors: Chen Xiao‐Hong , Pan Sheng‐Dong , Ye Mei‐Jun , Li Xiao‐Ping , Zhao Yong‐Gang , Jin Mi‐Cong
Published: December 2015

A novel triethylenetetramine‐functionalized magnetic graphene oxide composite was prepared and used as a magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbent for the fast detection of ten trace‐level phenolic environmental estrogens in environmental water. The synthesized material was carefully characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy to confirm the structure and components. The adsorption and desorption conditions of the adsorbent toward phenolic environmental estrogens were optimized in detailed to obtain the best extraction recovery and elution efficiency. Under the optimum conditions, the limits of detection of the method for ten phenolic environmental estrogens were in range of 0.15–1.5 ng/L, which was lower than the reported methods for phenolic environmental estrogens detection in literatures. This could be contributed to the unique structure and property of the as‐prepared material. The developed method was successfully applied for the determination of environmental water samples with recoveries ranging from 88.5 to 105.6%.