bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systems‐Level Roadmap for Biomass Thermal Fractionation and Catalytic Upgrading Strategies
Authors: Herron Jeffrey A. , Vann Tyler , Duong Nhung , Resasco Daniel E. , Crossley Steven , Lobban Lance L. , Maravelias Christos T.
Published: June 2016

Although multistage thermal decomposition (fractionation) of biomass with catalytic upgrading is a promising strategy of achieving sustainable fuels production, the number of thermal decomposition stages, their conditions, and the optimal catalytic upgrading chemistries are not known. In this paper, we use conceptual process modeling to propose a general roadmap for the design of a biorefinery by employing these technologies. The overall process considered includes a biomass pretreatment system, a (multistage) thermal decomposition system in which the biomass in decomposed into various fractions, a fraction upgrading system, and a combustion system. We focus primarily on the design of the thermal decomposition and fraction upgrading systems. The goal of our work is to demonstrate the key trade‐offs between various process options and to identify important areas for improvement. In general, increasing the complexity of the fraction upgrading systems increases the ultimate yield of C6+ products, though there are diminishing returns on the increase in product yield versus the complexity of the catalytic upgrading sequences. The choice of the number of thermal decomposition stages is not simple and requires careful consideration of the chemistries available to upgrade different components and the relative abundances of these different components. Therefore, the optimal design of the thermal decomposition and fraction upgrading systems cannot be done independently.
Candle Soot as Efficient Support for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Catalyst
Authors: Khalakhan I. , Fiala R. , Lavková J. , Kúš P. , Ostroverkh A. , Václavů M. , Vorokhta M. , Matolínová I. , Matolín V.
Published: June 2016

Candle soot deposited from the candle flame was used as a catalyst support for an anode catalyst in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. The results showed that Pt/soot hybrids prepared by magnetron sputtering of 5 nm platinum films on candle soot exhibit very high mass activity in the fuel cell, which is more than one order of magnitude higher than that for commercial catalyst. The elementary preparation, high surface‐to‐volume ratio, good conductivity and hydrophobicity make candle soot a promising type of the support for PEMFCs catalyst.
Quality and risk management strategy for mechanized tunnelling – From machine concept to process controlling / Qualitätssicherungselemente und Risikomanagementstrategie für den maschinellen Tunnelbau – Vom Maschinenkonzept zum Prozesscontrolling
Authors: Handke Dieter , Edelhoff Dennis
Published: June 2016

Mechanized tunnelling is a highly technical construction process, which requires the establishment of precise objectives to consistently guarantee high quality and safety standards while still considering the aspects of time and cost reduction. In the tendering and construction phases, these objectives can be met by the application of a risk management strategy and the integration of quality assurance elements. The implementation of process controlling with the objectives optimization, error prevention and documentation provides a centralized monitoring element in the construction phase. External experts can monitor tunnelling activities in real time and submit recommendations in case of deviations. With downstream analyses, incidents can be evaluated and methodological errors identified.

Der maschinelle Tunnelbau ist ein hoch mechanisiertes Bauverfahren, bei dem zur Sicherstellung einer dauerhaft hohen Qualität und Einhaltung höchster Sicherheitsstandards bei gleichzeitiger Berücksichtigung bauzeit‐ und kostenreduzierender Aspekte klare Zielformulierungen aufgestellt werden müssen. In der Ausschreibungs‐ und Ausführungsphase können diese Zielstellungen durch die Anwendung einer Risikomanagementstrategie und die Integration von Qualitätssicherungselementen erfüllt werden. Die Ausführung eines Prozesscontrollings mit der Zielstellung Optimierung, Fehlervermeidung und Dokumentation stellt ein zentrales Überwachungselement in der Bauphase dar. Hierbei werden von externen Experten die Vortriebsarbeiten in Echtzeit überwacht und bei Vorliegen von Abweichungen Handlungsempfehlungen unterbreitet. Über nachgeschaltete Analysen können Schadensereignisse bewertet und Verfahrensfehler identifiziert werden.
Dynamischer Erddruck auf starre und flexible Wände mittels Wellenlösungen: Numerische Einzelvergleiche für homogene und geschichtete Bodenprofile
Authors: Vrettos Christos , Feldbusch Arthur
Published: June 2016

Im Rahmen einer Parameterstudie werden mithilfe eines gängigen Finite‐Elemente‐Programms Berechnungen des dynamischen Erddrucks, wie dieser typischerweise bei seismischen Anregungen auftritt, untersucht. Es wird die Methode der Wellenausbreitung herangezogen. Das betrachtete System besteht aus zwei Wänden, die linear elastischen Boden stützen. Für einen ausreichend großen Wandabstand kann mit diesem System das Verhalten einer Einzelwand approximiert werden. Die Wände weisen eine finite Biegesteifigkeit und eine Drehfeder am Wandfußauflager auf. Zunächst werden die Berechnungen für den Grenzfall einer verschwindend kleinen Frequenz (pseudostatischer Fall) durchgeführt. Es folgen Analysen des frequenzabhängigen Verhaltens bei zeitharmonischer Anregung der Schichtunterlage. Details zur Modellierung und zur Diskretisierung des Systems, zur Wahl der Parameter für die Dämpfung des Bodens sowie zur Aufarbeitung der Ergebnisse der Zeitbereichsberechnungen werden angegeben. Numerische Ergebnisse werden anhand von Angaben in der Literatur verifiziert. Der Einfluss der Bodenschichtung wird ebenfalls untersucht.
Receptor interacting protein 3 protects mice from high‐fat diet‐induced liver injury
Authors: Roychowdhury Sanjoy , McCullough Rebecca L. , Sanz‐Garcia Carlos , Saikia Paramananda , Alkhouri Naim , Matloob Ammar , Pollard Katherine A. , McMullen Megan R. , Croniger Colleen M. , Nagy Laura E.
Published: June 2016

Multiple pathways of programmed cell death are important in liver homeostasis. Hepatocyte death is associated with progression of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and inhibition of apoptosis partially protects against liver injury in response to a high‐fat diet (HFD). However, the contribution of necroptosis, a caspase‐independent pathway of cell death, to HFD‐induced liver injury is not known. Wild‐type C57BL/6 and receptor interacting protein (RIP) 3−/− mice were randomized to chow or HFD. HFD‐fed C57BL/6 mice increased expression of RIP3, the master regulator of necroptosis, as well as phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain‐like, an effector of necroptotic cell death, in liver. HFD did not increase phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain‐like in RIP3−/− mice. HFD increased fasting insulin and glucose, as well as glucose intolerance, in C57BL/6 mice. RIP3−/− mice were glucose‐intolerant even on the chow diet; HFD further increased fasting glucose and insulin but not glucose intolerance. HFD also increased hepatic steatosis, plasma alanine aminotransferase activity, inflammation, oxidative stress, and hepatocellular apoptosis in wild‐type mice; these responses were exacerbated in RIP3−/− mice. Importantly, increased inflammation and injury were associated with early indicators of fibrosis in RIP3−/− compared to C57BL/6 mice. Culture of AML12 hepatocytes with palmitic acid increased cytotoxicity through apoptosis and necrosis. Inhibition of RIP1 with necrostatin‐1 or small interfering RNA knockdown of RIP3 reduced palmitic acid‐induced cytotoxicity. Conclusion: Absence of RIP3, a key mediator of necroptosis, exacerbated HFD‐induced liver injury, associated with increased inflammation and hepatocyte apoptosis, as well as early fibrotic responses; these findings indicate that shifts in the mode of hepatocellular death can influence disease progression and have therapeutic implications because manipulation of hepatocyte cell death pathways is being considered as a target for treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (Hepatology 2016;64:1518‐1533)
A Model to predict severity of drug‐induced liver injury in humans
Authors: Chen Minjun , Borlak Jürgen , Tong Weida
Published: June 2016

Drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) is a major public health concern, and improving its prediction remains an unmet challenge. Recently, we reported the Rule‐of‐2 (RO2) and found lipophilicity (logP ≥3) and daily dose ≥100 mg of oral medications to be associated with significant risk for DILI; however, the RO2 failed to estimate grades of DILI severity. In an effort to develop a quantitative metrics, we analyzed the association of daily dose, logP, and formation of reactive metabolites (RM) in a large set of Food and Drug Administration‐approved oral medications and found factoring RM into the RO2 to highly improve DILI prediction. Based on these parameters and by considering n = 354 drugs, an algorithm to assign a DILI score was developed. In univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses the algorithm (i.e., DILI score model) defined the relative contribution of daily dose, logP, and RM and permitted a quantitative assessment of risk of clinical DILI. Furthermore, a clear relationship between calculated DILI scores and DILI risk was obtained when applied to three independent studies. The DILI score model was also functional with drug pairs defined by similar chemical structure and mode of action but divergent toxicities. Specifically, for drug pairs where the RO2 failed, the DILI score correctly identified toxic drugs. Finally, the model was applied to n = 159 clinical cases collected from the National Institutes of Health's LiverTox database to demonstrate that the DILI score correlated with the severity of clinical outcome. Conclusions: Based on daily dose, lipophilicity, and RM, a DILI score algorithm was developed that provides a scale of assessing the severity of DILI risk in humans associated with oral medications. (Hepatology 2016;64:931‐940)
Inhibition of spleen tyrosine kinase activation ameliorates inflammation, cell death, and steatosis in alcoholic liver disease
Authors: Bukong Terence N. , Iracheta‐Vellve Arvin , Saha Banishree , Ambade Aditya , Satishchandran Abhishek , Gyongyosi Benedek , Lowe Patrick , Catalano Donna , Kodys Karen , Szabo Gyongyi
Published: June 2016

The spectrum of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of mortality with limited therapies available. Because alcohol targets numerous signaling pathways in hepatocytes and in immune cells, the identification of a master regulatory target that modulates multiple signaling processes is attractive. In this report, we assessed the role of spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, which has a central modulatory role in multiple proinflammatory signaling pathways involved in the pathomechanism of ALD. Using mouse disease models that represent various phases in the progression of human ALD, we found that alcohol, in all of these models, induced SYK activation in the liver, both in hepatocytes and liver mononuclear cells. Furthermore, significant SYK activation also occurred in liver samples and peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with ALD/alcoholic hepatitis compared to controls. Functional inhibition of SYK activation in vivo abrogated alcohol‐induced hepatic neutrophil infiltration, resident immune cell activation, as well as inflammasome and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2‐mediated nuclear factor kappa B activation in mice. Strikingly, inhibition of SYK activation diminished alcohol‐induced hepatic steatosis and interferon regulatory factor 3‐mediated apoptosis. Conclusion: Our data demonstrate a novel, functional, and multicellular role for SYK phosphorylation in modulating immune cell‐driven liver inflammation, hepatocyte cell death, and steatosis at different stages of ALD. These novel findings highlight SYK as a potential multifunctional target in the treatment of alcoholic steatohepatitis. (Hepatology 2016;64:1057‐1071)
Haemochromatosis and gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Lagergren Katarina , Wahlin Karl , Mattsson Fredrik , Alderson Derek , Lagergren Jesper
Published: June 2016

Iron overload in patients with haemochromatosis is a strong risk factor for liver cancer, but its influence on other gastrointestinal cancer risk is unclear. The aim was to assess the relative risk of luminal gastrointestinal cancer among patients diagnosed with haemochromatosis. This population‐based, nationwide Swedish cohort study included patients with haemochromatosis in Sweden in 1965–2013. The incidence of gastrointestinal cancers was assessed through the Swedish Cancer Registry. The measure of relative risk was the standardised incidence ratio (SIR) with 95% confidence interval (CI), that is, the ratio of the observed number of gastrointestinal cancers in the haemochromatosis cohort divided by the expected number of such cancers, calculated from the entire corresponding background population of Sweden. Among 6,849 patients in the haemochromatosis cohort with up to 48 years of follow‐up, the SIRs were 3‐fold increased for oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SIR = 3.2, 95% CI 1.3–6.6; n = 7) and 40% increased for colon adenocarcinoma (SIR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.1–1.9; n = 54). No associations were found between haemochromatosis and the risk of adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus (SIR = 0.5, 95% CI 0.0–2.5; n = 1), stomach (SIR = 0.7, 95% CI 0.3–1.4; n = 8), small bowel (SIR = 1.2, 95% CI 0.0–6.7; n = 1) or rectum (SIR = 1.0, 95% CI 0.6–1.6; n = 21). These findings indicate that haemochromatosis increases the risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma and colon adenocarcinoma, but might not influence the risk of other types of luminal gastrointestinal cancer. These findings should encourage further research examining the role of iron overload in cancer aetiology.
Nested quantitative PCR approach for urinary cell‐free EZH2 mRNA and its potential clinical application in bladder cancer
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhang Yanli , Liu Xinfeng , Liu Tong , Li Peilong , Du Lutao , Yang Yongmei , Wang Lili , Wang Chuanxin
Published: June 2016

EZH2 is overexpressed in bladder cancer (BC) and plays important roles in tumor development and progression. Recent studies show cell free (cf) RNAs released from cancer cells can reflect tissues changes and are stable and detectable in urine. Although conventional quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) is highly sensitive, low abundances of urinary cf‐RNAs usually result in false‐negatives. Thus, this study develops a nested qPCR (nqPCR) approach to quantify cf‐EZH2 mRNA in urine and further assess its clinical significance for BC. Forty urine samples were first selected to evaluate feasibility of nqPCR. Then, levels of urinary cf‐EZH2 mRNA were detected using developed method in an independent cohort of subjects with 91 healthy, 81 cystitis, 169 nonmuscle invasive BC (NMIBC) and 103 muscle‐invasive BC (MIBC). In cf‐EZH2 mRNA detection, nqPCR method was significantly associated with qPCR, but it could detect more urine samples and increase detection limit three orders of magnitude. Based on nqPCR method, cf‐EZH2 mRNA levels have been found to be increased in urine of NMIBC and MIBC patients (p < 0.001). Compared with cytology, cf‐EZH2 mRNA showed higher diagnostic ability for MIBC (p < 0.001) while not for NMIBC (p > 0.05). Moreover, it also could distinguish MIBC from NMIBC, with AUC of 0.787. For MIBC patients, high expression of cf‐EZH2 mRNA associated with advanced stage and was an independent predictor of reduced disease free survival or overall survival. In conclusion, detection of cf‐EZH2 mRNA in urine by nqPCR is a sensitive and noninvasive approach and may be used for diagnosis and prognosis prediction of MIBC.
Low‐dose radiation may be a novel approach to enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapeutics
Authors: Yang Guozi , Li Wei , Jiang Hongyu , Liang Xinyue , Zhao Yuguang , Yu Dehai , Zhou Lei , Wang Guanjun , Tian Huimin , Han Fujun , Cai Lu , Cui Jiuwei
Published: June 2016

It has been generally accepted that both natural and man‐made sources of ionizing radiation contribute to human exposure and consequently pose a possible risk to human health. However, accumulating evidence has shown that the biological effects of low‐dose radiation (LDR) are different from those of high‐dose radiation. LDR can stimulate proliferation of normal cells and activate their defense systems, while these biological effects are not observed in some cancer cell types. Although there is still no concordance on this matter, the fact that LDR has the potential to enhance the effects of cancer therapeutics and reduce the toxic side effects of anti‐cancer therapy has garnered significant interest. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge regarding the experimental data detailing the different responses of normal and cancer tissues to LDR, the underlying mechanisms, and its significance in clinical application.
One‐pot Synthesis of Highly Functionalized Pyrido‐1,3‐thiazin‐4‐ones Using Unprotected Sugars in a Task‐specific Ionic Liquid, [Bmim]SCN
Authors: Rai Vijai K. , Sharrof Vidya R.
Published: June 2016

An original four‐component coupling strategy to iminosugar‐annulated 1,3‐thiazines, that is, pyrido‐1,3‐thiazin‐4‐ones using unprotected D‐xylose/D‐glucose, 2‐phenyl‐1,3‐oxazolan‐5‐one, [bmim]SCN, and NH4OAC/RNH2 is reported. The strategy involves a task‐specific ionic liquid, [bmim]SCN‐promoted cascade reactions involving hydrothiocyanation and aminoacetylative azaheterocyclization. The reactions give excellent yields (82‐95%) and are highly diastereoselective (>94%) in favor of cis isomer.
Added value of a high‐resolution regional climate model in simulation of intraseasonal variability of the South Asian summer monsoon
Authors: Karmacharya J. , New M. , Jones R. , Levine R.
Published: June 2016

The South Asian summer monsoon (SASM) exhibits large variability in the intraseasonal scale, and active and break cycles of monsoon constitute dominant mode of this variability. This has been subject of many model‐based studies as improved simulation of intraseasonal features also leads to better representation of the seasonal mean characteristics. We evaluate a recent Hadley centre regional climate model's performance, at low and high resolutions and forced by a reanalysis, in simulating various characteristics associated with intraseasonal variability of SASM. In particular, we compare the spatial patterns of precipitation and upper level circulation composites for active and break spells and, timing, frequency and duration of those spells. We found improvements in simulation of active and break composite precipitation in the high‐resolution simulation. These improvements probably come from improved position of the monsoon trough particularly over west India for active composite and improved low‐level flow particularly south of the Himalaya for break composite. Moreover, enhanced capacity of the model at high resolution to resolve atmospheric motions and interaction of moisture laden low‐level flow with the steep Himalayan orography is likely to contribute in reduction of excess precipitation over Indo‐Gangetic plain. Similarly, improvements over east Nepal for break spells are likely to come from model's ability to effectively capture precipitation enhancements that arise from orographic‐forced and mid‐tropospheric ascending motions. However, mixed results are obtained for temporal statistics associated with occurrence of active and break events. We also compare the model performance in simulating precipitation extremes over Nepal. The timing of extreme precipitation occurrence in relation to peak monsoon months and break spells, and contribution of the extreme cumulative precipitation to the seasonal total are improved in the high‐resolution simulation.
Effects of cobalt and chromium ions on lymphocyte migration
Authors: Baskey Stephen J. , Lehoux Eric A. , Catelas Isabelle
Published: June 2016

A T cell‐mediated hypersensitivity reaction has been reported in some patients with CoCrMo‐based implants. However, the role of cobalt and chromium ions in this reaction remains unclear. The objective of the present study was to analyze the effects of Co2+ and Cr3+ in culture medium, as well as the effects of culture supernatants of macrophages exposed to Co2+ or Cr3+, on the migration of lymphocytes. The release of cytokines/chemokines by macrophages exposed to Co2+ and Cr3+ was also analyzed. The migration of murine lymphocytes was quantified using the Boyden chamber assay and flow cytometry, while cytokine/chemokine release by J774A.1 macrophages was measured by ELISA. Results showed an ion concentration‐dependent increase in TNF‐α and MIP‐1α release and a decrease in MCP‐1 and RANTES release. Migration analysis showed that the presence of Co2+ (8 ppm) and Cr3+ (100 ppm) in culture medium increased the migration of T lymphocytes, while it had little or no effect on the migration of B lymphocytes, suggesting that Co2+ and Cr3+ can stimulate the migration of T but not B lymphocytes. Levels of T lymphocyte migration in culture medium containing Co2+ or Cr3+ were not statistically different from those in culture supernatants of macrophages exposed to Co2+ or Cr3+, suggesting that the effects of the ions and chemokines were not additive, possibly because of ion interference with the chemokines and/or their cognate receptors. Overall, results suggest that Co2+ and Cr3+ are capable of stimulating the migration of T (but not B) lymphocytes in the absence of cytokines/chemokines, and could thereby contribute to the accumulation of more T than B lymphocytes in periprosthetic tissues of some patients with CoCrMo‐based implants. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:916–924, 2017.
Raman spectroscopy of alkali halide hydration: hydrogen bond relaxation and polarization
Authors: Gong Yinyan , Zhou Yong , Wu Huacheng , Wu Danping , Huang Yongli , Sun Chang Q.
Published: June 2016

The solute–solvent interaction of salts has a striking impact on various biological and industrial processes but its mechanism remains yet mysterious despite intensive studies since 1888 when Franz Hofmeister established the salt series. A combination of confocal Raman spectroscopy and contact angle measurements has enabled us to resolve the hydrogen bond relaxation (O:H―O, HB) and the associated charge polarization dynamics at different molecular site because of alkali halides hydration. Results show consistently that salt hydration softens the O:H phonon but stiffens H―O phonon cooperatively. The extent of HB relaxation and polarization is proportional to the electronegativity difference and ionic radius, following the order of Hofmeister series: X (R/η) = I (2.2/2.5) > Br (1.96/2.8) > Cl (1.81/3.0) > F (1.33/4.0) ≈ 0 for anions, and Y(R/η) = Na (0.98/0.9) > K (1.33/0.8) > Rb (1.49/0.8) > Cs (1.65/0.8) for cations. Observations suggest that ions create each an electric field that aligns, stretches, and polarizes water molecules, which relaxes the O:H―O bond cooperatively, depresses the molecular dynamics, and enhances the hydration shell viscosity and the skin stress. Exercises also demonstrate that Raman spectroscopy performs as a powerful tool for probing the molecular‐site‐resolved HB network relaxation dynamics in terms of phonon stiffness, molecular fluctuation dynamics, and phonon abundance transition under external stimulus. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recent Breakthroughs in Solid‐State Mid‐IR Laser Technology
Authors: Vasilyev Sergey , Moskalev Igor , Mirov Mike , Smolsky Viktor , Mirov Sergey , Gapontsev Valentin
Published: June 2016

Availability of compact and cost‐efficient mid‐infrared (MIR) laser sources with a broad range of parameters is of great interest for a number of current and emerging applications. For instance, femtosecond (fs) MIR sources with high average power and broad spectral span enable high dynamic range spectroscopy, sensing, and imaging in the molecular fingerprint region. On the other hand, few‐optical‐cycle MIR pulses with high energy are of particular importance for the development of EUV and X‐ray sources based on strong field nonlinear optics, e.g. high harmonic generation. Furthermore, high‐power mid‐IR lasers are of interest for processing polymers, glasses and composites, surgical, dental and cosmetology procedures, as well as numerous defense‐related applications.
Phosphorus‐Containing Gradient (Block) Copolymers via RAFT Polymerization and Postpolymerization Modification
Authors: Sykes Kyle J. , Harrisson Simon , Keddie Daniel J.
Published: June 2016

Reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) copolymerization of styrene (St) and 4‐(diphenylphosphino)styrene (DPPS) is explored to establish the statistical distribution of the phosphine‐functional monomer within the copolymer. RAFT copolymerization of St and DPPS at a variety of feed ratios provides phosphine‐functional copolymers of low dispersity at moderate monomer conversion (Ð < 1.2 at conv. >60%). In all cases, the fraction of DPPS in the resulting polymers is greater than that in the monomer feed. Estimation of copolymerization reactivity ratios indicates DPPS has a strong tendency to homopolymerize while St preferentially copolymerizes with DPPS (rDPPS = 4.4; rSt = 0.31). The utility of the copolymers as macro‐RAFT agents in block copolymer synthesis is demonstrated via chain extension with hydrophilic acrylamide (N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMAm)) and acrylate (poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate (mPEGA), and di(ethylene glycol) ethyl ether acrylate (EDEGA)) monomers. Finally, access to polymers containing phosphine oxide and phosphonium salt functionalities is shown through postpolymerization modification of the phosphine‐containing copolymers.

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Engineering of a Stable Collagen Nanofibrous Scaffold with Tunable Fiber Diameter, Alignment, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Castilla‐Casadiego David A. , Ramos‐Avilez Heleine V. , Herrera‐Posada Stephany , Calcagno Barbara , Loyo Luis , Shipmon Jacoby , Acevedo Aldo , Quintana Anibal , Almodovar Jorge
Published: June 2016

The effect of varying electrospinning parameters is reported for the production of collagen nanofibers from acetic acid with controlled fiber diameter, orientation, and mechanical properties. Nanofibers with a range of diameters of 175–400 nm are obtained by varying either the voltage or the flow rate. An increase in nanofiber alignment is observed by increasing injection flow rate. Mechanical testing of these fibers reveals that the elasticity modulus can be tuned in the range of 2.7–4.1 MPa by the selection of the crosslinking method. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy reveals that the secondary structure of collagen is preserved after electrospinning and crosslinking. Lastly, in vitro testing reveals that a high number of fibroblasts attach to the collagen matrices indicating, that they are suitable for mammalian cell culture.

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Thieno[3,4‐c]Pyrrole‐4,6‐Dione and Dithiophene‐Based Conjugated Polymer for Organic Field Effect Transistors: High Mobility Induced by Synergic Effect of H‐Bond and Vinyl Linkage
Authors: Qing Wanmei , Gong Xiaodi , Liang Xianfeng , Wang Yuancheng , Yang Sifen , Tan Luxi , Ma Yanping , Liu Zitong , Li Jing
Published: June 2016

Here, a conjugated polymer VTTPD based on thieno[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐4,6‐dione (TPD) and dithiophene with vinyl as linker is synthesized and characterized. Electrochemical and optical studies indicate the LUMO and HOMO energies of the polymer are −3.70 and −5.39 eV. Theoretical calculation with density functional theory suggests that H‐bonds are formed between the TPD carbonyl (O) and its neighboring vinyl (H) which benefit the planarity and π‐conjugation of the polymer backbone. Bottom contact bottom gate organic field effect transistor devices based on VTTPD are fabricated and examined in air. After annealing at 160 °C, the devices exhibit excellent performance of μh = 0.4 cm2 V−1 s−1, Ion/off = 106, Vth within −10 V to −5 V. Thin film morphologies before and after the annealing process are also investigated with XRD and AFM.

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Pro Sports League Antitrust ‘Beliefs’: Applied Theory and the Rule of Reason
Authors: Fort Rodney
Published: June 2016

In antitrust rule of reason cases, courts weigh anticompetitive harm against consumer welfare offsets. In sports cases, the courts appear to accept claims that fans prefer more competitive balance to less, so that a potential welfare offset is any added enhanced competitive balance attributable to the anticompetitive activity. In addition, courts often decide that less intrusive alternatives may be available to accomplish the same competitive balance gain. From the applied theory perspective, this is troublesome. Theoretically, whether fans prefer more balance is a hypothesis about preferences that needs to be examined in detail for any particular case. Applied theory also is of aid in assessing whether a particular device under scrutiny, including so‐called less intrusive alternatives, should even be predicted to enhance balance. Wading through the foregoing produces food for thought for the courts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
No Seat at the Table: Representation in Collective Bargaining in Professional Sports
Authors: Winfree Jason A.
Published: June 2016

This study analyzes representation in collective bargaining in professional sports leagues and shows that the labor market is not completely competitive off‐the‐field. Because collective bargaining impacts future compensation and player unions are always represented by current players and often represented by more experienced players, there is a much higher incentive to advocate for policies that increase pay for more experienced players. Conversely, policies that maintain monopsony power for leagues with regards to inexperienced players, such as player drafts, have remained in sports leagues. However, these policies may also restrict the quantity demanded for more experienced players. This paper provides a theoretical model and examines empirical evidence regarding the differences between younger and older players. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deviations in Monthly Staffing and Injurious Assaults Against Staff and Patients on Psychiatric Units
Authors: Staggs Vincent S.
Published: June 2016

It is widely thought that low staffing levels are associated with higher risk of psychiatric inpatient violence. The purpose of this study was to determine whether odds of an injurious assault are higher in months in which unit staffing levels are higher or lower relative to unit average, using a design allowing each unit to serve as its own control. Using 2011–2013 National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators data from 480 adult and 90 geriatric units in 361 US hospitals, monthly assault odds were modeled as functions of unit staffing. Monthly RN and non‐RN staffing (hours per patient day) were categorized as very low, low, average, high, or very high, based on deviation from the unit's average staffing across study months. Endpoints were binary indicators for one or more injurious assaults against staff during the month and for one or more injurious assaults against patients during the month. Despite large sample sizes, neither RN nor non‐RN staffing was a statistically significant predictor of odds of assault, nor was there a consistent trend of odds of assault being higher at below‐ or above‐average staffing levels. There was little evidence that monthly deviation in unit staffing is associated with the odds of an injurious assault on a unit. This suggests that staffing‐assault rate associations in previous studies of monthly data are largely attributable to between‐unit rather than within‐unit staffing differences. Hospitals may need to look beyond below‐ or above‐average nurse staffing as a cause of assaults. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Teamwork in Acute Care: Perceptions of Essential but Unheard Assistive Personnel and the Counterpoint of Perceptions of Registered Nurses
Authors: Bellury Lanell , Hodges Helen , Camp Amanda , Aduddell Kathie
Published: June 2016

Teams of unlicensed personnel and registered nurses have provided hospital‐based nursing care for decades. Although ineffective teamwork has been associated with poor patient outcomes, little is known of the perspectives of nursing assistive personnel (NAP). The purpose of this study was to gain insights into the perceptions of NAP and professional registered nurses (RNs) on teamwork in acute care. In a qualitative descriptive approach in a metropolitan hospital in the southeastern United States, 33 NAP participated in audio‐recorded focus group sessions, and 18 RNs provided responses to open‐ended electronic survey questions. Findings were examined in relation to previously identified coordinating mechanisms of teamwork: shared mental models, closed‐loop communication, and mutual trust. None of the mechanisms was strongly represented in these data. In contrast to RNs’ mental models, NAP perceptions of teamwork included the centrality of holistic caring to the NAP role, functional teams as NAP‐only teams, NAPs and RNs working in parallel spheres rather than together, and team coordination in silos. Closed‐loop communication was less common than one‐way requests. Mutual trust was desired, but RNs’ delegation of tasks conveyed to NAP a lack of value and respect for the NAP role, while RNs perceived a professional obligation to delegate care to ensure quality of care amid changing patient priorities. Further empirical research into NAP practice is needed to enhance understanding of teamwork issues and direct effective interventions to improve work environments and ultimately patient outcomes. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surveillance imaging and radiation exposure in the detection of relapsed neuroblastoma
Authors: Owens Cormac , Li Bryan K. , Thomas Karen E. , Irwin Meredith S.
Published: June 2016

Background

More than half of children with high‐risk neuroblastoma (NB) will experience recurrence. Radiologic imaging is used for initial staging and during therapy to assess response. However, the role of surveillance imaging in the detection of relapse has not been well studied. Surveillance potentially results in high cumulative exposure to ionizing radiation, which may be associated with an increased risk of developing second malignancies.

Procedure

We reviewed NB cases at our institution between 2000 and 2011. We calculated radiation exposure due to imaging (during diagnosis, treatment, and posttherapy surveillance) using cumulative effective dose (CED) estimates and determined whether cross‐sectional imaging identified recurrences.

Results

Fifty of 183 patients with NB experienced a recurrence. The median time from diagnosis to relapse was 1.20 years (range: 0.18–6.66 years). Most patients had evidence of metastases and only 4 of 50 patients presented with isolated primary tumor site recurrences. The mean CED prior to relapse was 125.2 mSv (range: 24.5–259.7), 64% of which was from computed tomography (CT) scans. Thirty‐seven of 50 patients had clinically evident or measurable disease detected by X‐ray (XR), ultrasound (US), or urinary catecholamines (UCats), and the addition of metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scans identified eight additional recurrences. Thus, cross‐sectional imaging (CT/MRI, where MRI is magnetic resonance imaging) was only required to identify 10% (5/50) of cases.

Conclusion

Relapsed disease was detected in most patients by symptoms/exam, MIBG scan, UCats, and/or XR/US, supporting reduced use of CT imaging in posttherapy surveillance, thereby decreasing cumulative radiation dose. Refinement of surveillance imaging may be further guided by risk stratification, disease sites, and potentially biomolecular markers.
Improvement of dispersion of carbon nanotubes in epoxy resin through pyrogallol functionalization
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Chai Mengsha , Zhao Hongjie , Zhao Xueying , Ji Peijun
Published: June 2016

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were functionalized with pyrogallol. The functionalized MWNTs were well‐dispersed in the epoxy/curing agent/ethanol solution, as demonstrated by UV‐vis spectra and optical micrographs. Epoxy resin/MWNTs composites were prepared via solution mixing method. The cure behavior was characterized using differential scanning calorimetry. Pyrogallol‐functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) reacted with the epoxy through the mediation reaction of pyrogallol with the curing agent, leading to the interfacial bonding between the functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and the resin matrix. Due to the excellent dispersion and interfacial bonding, the mechanical strength and electrical conductivity of the epoxy resin/CNTs composites have been improved. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 56:1079–1085, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Diamond on aluminum nitride as a platform for integrated photonic circuits
Authors: Gruhler Nico , Yoshikawa Taro , Rath Patrik , Lewes‐Malandrakis Georgia , Schmidhammer Edgar , Nebel Christoph , Pernice Wolfram H. P.
Published: June 2016

Diamond offers superior material properties for realizing advanced integrated optical components. Particularly attractive is its wide transparency window which covers visible and infrared wavelengths. To take advantage of the potential for broadband waveguiding, diamond needs to be surrounded by broadband transparent cladding materials. Here we use diamond deposited onto aluminum nitride as a platform for integrated optics. We demonstrate essential photonic circuitry for coupling light into on‐chip waveguides and show transmission both in the near‐infrared and visible wavelength range. Our approach holds promise for functional diamond devices that cover spectral regions up to the mid‐infrared.

Left: Scanning electron micrograph of a diamond waveguide with an overlay of the mode profile. Right: material stack consisting of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) on aluminum nitride (AlN) on silicon (Si) (not to scale).
Nano networks exhibiting negative linear compressibility
Authors: Grima Joseph N. , Degabriele Edera P. , Attard Daphne
Published: June 2016

Molecular mechanics simulations were used to analyse the on‐axis mechanical properties of a series of nanonetworks. These consisted of naphthacene‐like units linked together through acetylene chains, and designed to mimic the geometry of a winerack‐like structure in one of the major planes, a geometry which is closely associated with negative linear compressibility. It was found that these networks have a potential to exhibit a negative linear compressibility in one of the major axis. An analysis of the deformation mechanism as well as the magnitudes of the compressibility in the major directions suggest that this effect arises from relative rotations of the rigid polyphenyl chains and is comparable to that predicted by an idealised winerack model deforming through hinging. This confirms that there is a very strong link between negative linear compressibility and geometry, as is the case with auxetic materials.
Growth and properties of self‐catalyzed (In,Mn)As nanowires
Authors: Bouravleuv Alexei , Cirlin George , Reznik Rodion , Khrebtov Artem , Samsonenko Yuriy , Werner Peter , Soshnikov Ilya , Savin Alexander , Lipsanen Harri
Published: June 2016

Mn‐assisted molecular beam epitaxy is used for the growth of (In,Mn)As nanowires (NWs) on GaAs(111)B. The transmission electron microscopy measurements revealed that despite the relatively high growth temperature regime this technique can be used to obtain (In,Mn)As NWs with high crystalline quality without any crystal defects, such as dislocations, stacking faults or precipitates inside the investigated NWs or on their side‐walls, although the growth processes of NWs were accompanied by the formation of MnAs precipitates between the NWs at the interface of the wetting layer. The results obtained are of importance for the realization of new spintronic nanostructured materials. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spontaneous Electroless Deposition of Ultrafine Pd Nanoparticles on Poly(phenylene butadiynylene)s for the Hydroxycarbonylation of Aryl Iodides
Authors: Hu Yuchen , Liu Yang , Wang Zhifang , Zhang Bin
Published: June 2016

Spontaneous electroless deposition of ultrafine metal nanoparticles (NPs) supported on covalent organic frameworks (COFs) for catalytic organic transformation is rarely reported. Herein, poly(phenylene butadiynylene)s (PPBs), a easily prepared two‐dimensional (2D) covalent organic frameworks (COFs) consisting of sp‐ and sp2‐hybridized carbon atoms, can be applied as the reducing agent and substrate for spontaneous electroless deposition of sub‐3 nm ultrafine palladium nanoparticles owing to its low reduction potential and highly conjugated electronic structure. The as‐formed Pd/PPBs heterogeneous catalyst exhibits excellent recyclability and superior catalytic activity towards hydroxycarbonylation of aryl iodides in the presence of carbon monoxide and water.
Fluorescence Probing of Fluctuating Microtubule using a Covalent Fluorescent Probe: Effect of Taxol
Authors: Ghosh Catherine , Bhunia Debmalya , Ghosh Shirsendu , Jana Batakrishna , Ghosh Surajit , Bhattacharyya Kankan
Published: June 2016

Fluctuation in the local microenvironment of a dynamic microtubule, undergoing continuous growth and shrinkage, is monitored by time resolved confocal microscopy. For this, we have attached a fluorescent probe (CPM, 7‐diethylamino‐3‐(4‐maleimidophenyl)‐4‐methylcoumarin), covalently to tubulin dimers. In this experiment, the laser is focused on a small microtubule seed immobilized on a glass slide by neutravidin and biotin interaction. Tubulin monomers and other agents present in the solution cause growth and shrinkage. We have monitored emission maximum and solvation dynamics of the probe, CPM. Emission maximum (
) of CPM labeled tubulin dimer indicates a highly exposed medium similar to that in human serum albumin, HSA denatured by 6 M Guanidinium Hydrochloride (GdnHCl). However, solvation dynamics of CPM in tubulin dimer is more than 10 times slower than that in denatured HSA.

and solvation dynamics of CPM in tubulin dimer is similar to those in fluctuating microtubules and taxol (paclitaxel) stabilized microtubules. The fluorescence intensity of CPM exhibits intermittent oscillation in 1–2 seconds time scale in dynamic microtubules. No such fluctuation is observed in the case of unpolymerized tubulin dimer or when microtubules are stabilized by taxol. This strategy offers a new physicochemical approach of monitoring polymerization (growth) and depolymerization (shrinkage) of tubulin.
What are the Limitations of Enzymes in Synthetic Organic Chemistry?
Authors: Reetz Manfred T.
Published: June 2016

Enzymes have been used in organic chemistry and biotechnology for 100 years, but their widespread application has been prevented by a number of limitations, including the often‐observed limited thermostability, narrow substrate scope, and low or wrong stereo‐ and/or regioselectivity. Directed evolution provides a means to address and generally solve these problems, especially since recent methodology development has made this protein engineering method faster, more efficient, and more reliable than in the past. This Darwinian approach to asymmetric catalysis has led to a number of industrial applications. Metabolic‐pathway engineering, mutasynthesis, and fermentation are likewise enzyme‐based techniques that enrich chemistry. This account outlines the scope, and particularly, the limitations, of biocatalysis. The complementary nature of enzymes and man‐made catalysts is emphasized.

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Assessment of the sensitivity and specificity of serological (IFAT) and molecular (direct‐PCR) techniques for diagnosis of leishmaniasis in lagomorphs using a Bayesian approach
Authors: de la Cruz María Luisa , Pérez Andres , Domínguez Mercedes , Moreno Inmaculada , García Nerea , Martínez Irene , Navarro Alejandro , Domínguez Lucas , Álvarez Julio
Published: June 2016

Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania infantum, is a vector‐borne zoonotic disease that is endemic to the Mediterranean basin. The potential of rabbits and hares to serve as competent reservoirs for the disease has recently been demonstrated, although assessment of the importance of their role on disease dynamics is hampered by the absence of quantitative knowledge on the accuracy of diagnostic techniques in these species. A Bayesian latent‐class model was used here to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the Immuno‐fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) in serum and a Leishmania‐nested PCR (Ln‐PCR) in skin for samples collected from 217 rabbits and 70 hares from two different populations in the region of Madrid, Spain. A two‐population model, assuming conditional independence between test results and incorporating prior information on the performance of the tests in other animal species obtained from the literature, was used. Two alternative cut‐off values were assumed for the interpretation of the IFAT results: 1/50 for conservative and 1/25 for sensitive interpretation. Results suggest that sensitivity and specificity of the IFAT were around 70–80%, whereas the Ln‐PCR was highly specific (96%) but had a limited sensitivity (28.9% applying the conservative interpretation and 21.3% with the sensitive one). Prevalence was higher in the rabbit population (50.5% and 72.6%, for the conservative and sensitive interpretation, respectively) than in hares (6.7% and 13.2%). Our results demonstrate that the IFAT may be a useful screening tool for diagnosis of leishmaniasis in rabbits and hares. These results will help to design and implement surveillance programmes in wild species, with the ultimate objective of early detecting and preventing incursions of the disease into domestic and human populations.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Arylazoaminopyrazoles as Disperse Dyes for Textile Printing
Authors: Khattab Tawfik A. , Haggag Karima M. , Elnagdi Mohamed H. , Abdelrahman Amal A. , Abdelmoez Aly Sherif
Published: June 2016

The synthesis of heterocyclic azo‐dyes via conventional heating and microwave (MW) heating was investigated. From a sequence of reactions starting from cyanoacetic acid, 4‐arylazo‐2H‐pyrazol‐3‐ylamines and 4‐arylazo‐2‐phenyl‐2H‐pyrazol‐3‐ylamines were obtained. The structures these compounds were obtained by inspection of spectroscopic and analytical techniques including 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis. The fastness properties and UV/Vis absorption spectroscopic data of these disperse dyes in printing polyester fabrics were investigated.
Structural Variety of Defect Perovskite Variants M3E2X9 (M = Rb, Tl, E = Bi, Sb, X = Br, I)
Authors: Chang Jen‐Hui , Doert Thomas , Ruck Michael
Published: June 2016

The compounds Rb3Sb2Br9, Rb3Sb2I9, Rb3Bi2Br9, Rb3Bi2I9, and Tl3Bi2Br9 were synthesized and their crystal structures determined from single crystal X‐ray diffraction data. The compounds Rb3Sb2Br9, Rb3Sb2I9, and Rb3Bi2I9 crystallize in the Tl3Bi2I9 type of structure (space group P21/n, no. 14). Rb3Bi2Br9 and Tl3Bi2Br9 crystallize in a new but closely related type of structure (space group P21/a, no. 14). Both structure types feature characteristic double layers comprising corner‐sharing EX6 octahedra. The space groups are set in a way that the stacking direction of the layers is the [001] direction. The group‐subgroup relations to cubic perovskite ABO3 are discussed. Differences between M3E2X9 types are attributed to distortions of the underlying MX3 close packing. Depending on the atomic size ratio, the distortions are quantified by an order parameter.