bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement in Mechanical Performance of Anionic Hydrogels Using Full‐Interpenetrating Polymer Network Reinforced with Graphene Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: KHEIRABADI MALIHE , BAGHERI REZA , KABIRI KOUROSH , OSSIPOV DMITRI A. , JOKAR EFFAT , ASADIAN ELHAM
Published: August 2015

Weak mechanical possession is one of the limiting factors in application of hydrogels. To modify this inherent disadvantage, different approaches have been studied including synthesizing interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) and nanocomposite hydrogels. So, this study has focused on preparation of a novel full‐IPN structure based on anionic monomers of 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropane sulfonic acid/acrylic acid–sodium acrylate via facile solution polymerization technique in an aqueous media with incorporation of graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets. Mechanical performance of materials in the “as‐prepared condition” and “swollen state” was characterized via tensile, compression, and rheology tests, respectively. Significant improvement of both elastic and storage modulus (ca. four times higher than pure hydrogel) is observed in this approach. Also dynamic mechanical thermal analysis results revealed that incorporation of high GO content (0.5 wt%) can suppress formation of full‐IPN structure, whereas low GO content has not such an effect, interestingly. Moreover, these novel hydrogels could easily be stretched or compressed followed by full recovery after unloading.
Ultraviolet photopolymerization and performances of fast‐water absorbing sodium polyacrylate
Authors: Dolat Banugul , Sawut Amatjan , Yimit Mamatjan , Nurulla Ismayil
Published: August 2015

A kind of fast‐water absorbing sodium polyacrylate was prepared by UV polymerization under no crosslinker or initiator condition. Influence of factors, such as exposure time, neutralization degree, polymerization temperature, and monomer concentration on the absorption rate of the resin, were investigated. Its pH sensitivity, average absorption rate in distilled water and saline under load were also studied, respectively. The obtained resin reached to considerably high absorption rate: 4.6 g/g min and 2.6 g/g min even under 8000 Pa load in distilled water and 0.9% NaCl solution, respectively. Simultaneously, the resin displayed excellent water absorbency and water retention capacity. The impact of pH value on absorption rate reflected that the absorption rate was greatly influenced by pH. Synthesized polymer was characterized by FTIR, 1H‐NMR, and SEM. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42787.
Morphology, thermal, and electrical properties of polypropylene hybrid composites co‐filled with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes and graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Wegrzyn Marcin , Galindo Begoña , Benedito Adolfo , Gimenez Enrique
Published: August 2015

In this study, nanocomposites of polypropylene (PP) with various loadings of multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and graphene nanoplatelets (GnP) were formed by masterbatch dilution/mixing approach from individual masterbatches PP‐MWCNT and PP‐GnP. Melt mixing on a twin‐screw extruder at two different processing temperatures was followed by characterization of morphology by transmitted‐light microscopy including the statistical analysis of agglomeration behavior. The influence of processing temperature and weight fractions of both nanofillers on the dispersion quality is reported. Thermal properties of the nanocomposites investigated by DSC and TGA show sensitivity to the nanofillers weight fraction ratio and to processing conditions. Electrical conductivity is observed to increase up to an order of magnitude with the concentration of each nanofiller increasing from 0.5 wt % to 1.0 wt %. This is related with a decrease of electrical conductivity observed for unequal concentration of both nanofillers. This particular behavior shows the increase of electrical properties for higher MWCNT loadings and the increase of thermo‐mechanical properties for higher GnP loadings. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42793.
Synthesis and characterization of magnetic and fluorescent styrene co‐polymer nanofiber
Authors: Luna Eunice Sugirtharaj , Meenarathi Balakrishnan , Palanikumar Shanmugavel , Anbarasan Ramasamy
Published: August 2015

Fluorescent and magnetic poly(styrene) (PS) based random co‐polymer nanofiber was synthesized in a controlled manner via chemical polymerization in three steps. A fluorescent and magnetic nanohybrid {Fe3O4/Congored (CR)} was separately prepared and chemically grafted onto the epichlorohydrin (ECH) units of the random co‐polymer. Characterizations of the above synthesized polymers were done with the help of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, fluorescence emission spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurement, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) like analytical techniques. The FESEM results indicated that after the grafting of nanohybrid onto the random co‐polymer backbone, the polymer exhibited a nanofiber like morphology. Due to the surface functionalization and encapsulation reactions, the magnetic moment value of the nanohybrid and its nanocomposites were found to be reduced. Synthesis and characterization of magnetic and fluorescent random co‐polymer based nanofiber is the primary target of the present investigation and its application is extended to the catalysis field. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42796.
Treatment of melamine formaldehyde fibers for decontaminating biological and chemical warfare agents
Authors: Kocer Hasan B. , Ozkan Fatma , Broughton Roy M. , Worley Shelby D.
Published: August 2015

The demand for protection against biological and chemical warfare agents has increased the need for unique protective materials. N‐halamines are superior candidates for this task by having rapid inactivation rates against a broad range of microorganisms and the ability to oxidize some pesticides and warfare agents to reduce their toxicity to humans. Thus, the design of N‐halamine materials having fibrous structure, high halogen loading capacity with enhanced stability, and being relatively inexpensive is very important. This study investigated the effect of acid treatment on the chlorine loading and stability of a commercial flame retardant melamine formaldehyde (MF) fiber to introduce biocidal and detoxifying properties. The fibers formed into a web were treated with diluted sulfuric acid (H2SO4) under various conditions. The fiber webs were chlorinated with household bleach, and the stability of bound chlorine was investigated. The treated fabrics have been tested against a Gram‐negative bacterium and a warfare stimulant. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42799.
Electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of carbon black/sisal fiber/polyamide/polypropylene composites
Authors: He Hezhi , Cheng Shuwen , Lian Yeqi , Xing Yue , He Guangjian , Huang Zhaoxia , Wu Mingchun
Published: August 2015

The effects of hybrid fillers on the electrical conductivity and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) of polyamide 6 (PA6)/polypropylene (PP) immiscible polymer blends were investigated. Carbon black (CB) and steam exploded sisal fiber (SF) were used as fillers. CB was coated on the surface of SF, and this was exploded by water steam to form carbon black modified sisal fiber (CBMSF). CB/SF/PA6/PP composites were prepared by melt compounding, and its electromagnetic SE was tested in low‐frequency and high‐frequency ranges. We observed that SF greatly contributed to the effective decrease in the percolation threshold of CB in the PA6/PP matrix and adsorbed carbon particles to form a conductive network. Furthermore, an appropriate CB/SF ratio was important for achieving the best shielding performance. The results indicate that CBMSF was suitable for use as electronic conductive fillers and the CB/SF/PA6/PP composites could be used for the purpose of EMI shielding. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42801.
Facile fabrication of superhydrophobic polyimide/polytetrafluoroethylene composite coatings with high water adhesion
Authors: Guo Yonggang , Wang Zhongying , Wu Haihong , Zhang Xia
Published: August 2015

A facile casting method was used to fabricate superhydrophobic polyimide/polytetrafluoroethylene composite coatings with high water adhesion. The water contact angles of the composite coatings were larger than 150 °, expressing superhydrophobic property. But water droplets pinned tightly on the composite coating, even if it was upside down. The X‐ray photoelectron spectrum analysis indicated that polyimide and polytetrafluoroethylene coexisted in the resulting coating. The observation with scanning electron microscopy showed that the composite coating formed lotus‐like structure with many spherical polyimide papillae randomly bonding on the surface. But the tops of the polyimide papillae were not covered by lance‐shaped Teflon fibres, forming an inhomogenous and discontinuous surface structure. This special surface chemical distribution and lotus‐like structure combined to contribute to the high adhesive superhydrophobicity. This simple method may greatly extend the application range of high adhesive superhydrophobic surfaces in microcontrollable and microfluidic application. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2015,132, 42810.
Retroviral integration: Site matters
Authors: Demeulemeester Jonas , De Rijck Jan , Gijsbers Rik , Debyser Zeger
Published: August 2015

Here, we review genomic target site selection during retroviral integration as a multistep process in which specific biases are introduced at each level. The first asymmetries are introduced when the virus takes a specific route into the nucleus. Next, by co‐opting distinct host cofactors, the integration machinery is guided to particular chromatin contexts. As the viral integrase captures a local target nucleosome, specific contacts introduce fine‐grained biases in the integration site distribution. In vivo, the established population of proviruses is subject to both positive and negative selection, thereby continuously reshaping the integration site distribution. By affecting stochastic proviral expression as well as the mutagenic potential of the virus, integration site choice may be an inherent part of the evolutionary strategies used by different retroviruses to maximise reproductive success.
N6‐methyladenine functions as a potential epigenetic mark in eukaryotes
Authors: Sun Qinmiao , Huang Shoujun , Wang Xiaona , Zhu Yuanxiang , Chen Zhenping , Chen Dahua
Published: August 2015

N6‐methyladenine (6mA) is one of the most abundant types of DNA methylation, and plays an important role in bacteria; however, its roles in higher eukaryotes, such as plants, insects, and mammals, have been considered less important. Recent studies highlight that 6mA does indeed occur, and that it plays an important role in eukaryotes, such as worm, fly, and green algae, and thus the regulation of 6mA has emerged as a novel epigenetic mechanism in higher eukaryotes. Despite this intriguing development, a number of important issues regarding its biological roles are yet to be addressed. In this review, we focus on the 5mC and 6mA modifications in terms of their production, distribution, and the erasure of 6mA in higher eukaryotes including mammals. We perform an analysis of the potential functions of 6mA, hence widening understanding of this new epigenetic mark in higher eukaryotes, and suggesting future studies in this field.
A sensitive and selective LC‐MS/MS method for the quantitative determination of segetalin A from the plasma of rats
Authors: Wang Jianmeng , Zhang Nan , Pang Li , Xu Dahai , Yan Weiwei , Wu Jiang , Chen Haiyan
Published: August 2015

A sensitive and selective LC‐MS/MS method was developed and validated for the determination and pharmacokinetic investigation of segetalin A in rat plasma. Sample preparation was accomplished through a simple SPE procedure for the removal and preconcentration of the analyte and IS. Plasma samples were separated by HPLC on a Symmetry C18 column using a mobile phase consisting of methanol and 0.1% formic acid in water (70:30, v/v) with isocratic elution. The quantification was performed using multiple reaction monitoring with the transitions m/z 610.3 → 511.2 for segetalin A and m/z 779.4 → 751.4 for IS, respectively. The calibration curve was linear over the range of 8.0–4000 ng/mL with a limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 8.0 ng/mL. This method was applied in a pharmacokinetic study of segetalin A in rats. For intravenous (i.v.) administration, the plasma concentrations of segetalin A decreased quickly (t1/2z, 1.31 ± 0.341 h). For oral administration, the plasma concentrations of segetalin A increased to a peak value at 1.50 ± 0.577 h, followed by a gradual decrease to the LOQ in 12 h. The mean AUC values after i.v. and oral administration were 553 ± 105 and 1482 ± 110 ng h/mL, respectively. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Support Person Presence and Child Victim Testimony: Believe it or Not
Authors: McAuliff Bradley D. , Lapin Joshua , Michel Sandra
Published: August 2015

This study examined the effects of support person presence on participants’ perceptions of an alleged child sexual abuse victim and defendant. Two hundred jury‐eligible community members (n = 100 males) viewed a DVD of an 11‐year‐old girl's simulated courtroom testimony either with or without a female support person seated next to her. Participants found the child victim to be less accurate and trustworthy, and the defendant to be less guilty and less likely to have sexually abused children, when the support person was present. Participants who viewed the female support person (n = 100) believed that she had probably coached and spent a great deal of time with the child victim before testifying. Female participants perceived the child to be more accurate, and the defendant to be more guilty and likely to have sexually abused children, than male participants. The degree to which the child victim's testimonial behavior violated participants’ expectancies mediated the negative relation between support person presence and child victim accuracy and trustworthiness. Support person presence was positively associated with expectancy violation, which in turn was negatively associated with child victim accuracy and trustworthiness. These preliminary findings suggest that seating a support person next to an alleged child victim in court may have the unintended effect of decreasing the child's perceived credibility and, if replicated, suggest that alternative seating arrangements might be necessary. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Practice on Children's Ability to Apply Ground Rules in a Narrative Interview
Authors: Danby Meaghan C. , Brubacher Sonja P. , Sharman Stefanie J. , Powell Martine B.
Published: August 2015

Despite the widespread use of ground rules in forensic interview guidelines, it is unknown whether children retain and apply these rules throughout narrative interviews. We evaluated the capacity of 260 five‐ to nine‐year‐olds to utilize three ground rules. At the beginning of the interview all children heard the rules; half also practiced them. Children then responded to open‐ended prompts about a repeated laboratory event and were assessed for their application of the rules. Logistic regressions revealed that practice only benefitted the use of the “don't know” rule. Although the children accurately answered “don't understand” and “correct me” practice questions, practice appeared to give no greater benefit than just hearing the rules. Results suggest that the current format of ground rule practice in interview guidelines is appropriate for the “don't know” rule, but the other rules may require more extensive practice with this age group. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing the Impact of a Media‐based Intervention to Prevent Intergroup Violence and Promote Positive Intergroup Relations in Burundi
Authors: Bilali Rezarta , Vollhardt Johanna Ray , Rarick Jason Ray David
Published: August 2015

The present study (N = 1074) examined the impact of a theory‐driven media intervention aimed at violence prevention and intergroup reconciliation in Burundi. We used a novel methodology utilizing audio‐based surveys to assess attitudes related to intergroup conflict and reconciliation among community members. We conducted a propensity score analysis to estimate the causal effects of the intervention by examining differences between listeners and non‐listeners of the radio dramas. The results indicated a positive effect of the intervention on several social psychological outcomes (tolerance, in‐group superiority, social distance, intergroup trust, responsibility attributions, trauma disclosure and competitive victimhood). However, listeners and non‐listeners did not differ in obedience toward leaders or historical perspective taking; and the results for active bystandership, one of the main foci of the intervention, were mixed. Furthermore, the results show that the impact of the intervention sometimes depends on listeners' personal experiences of victimization. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Tale of Copper Coordination Frameworks: Controlled Single‐Crystal‐to‐Single‐Crystal Transformations and Their Catalytic CH Bond Activation Properties
Authors: Chen Yifa , Feng Xiao , Huang Xianqiang , Lin Zhengguo , Pei Xiaokun , Li Siqing , Li Jikun , Wang Shan , Li Rui , Wang Bo
Published: August 2015

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), as a class of microporous materials with well‐defined channels and rich functionalities, hold great promise for various applications. Yet the formation and crystallization processes of various MOFs with distinct topology, connectivity, and properties remain largely unclear, and the control of such processes is rather challenging. Starting from a 0D Cu coordination polyhedron, MOP‐1, we successfully unfolded it to give a new 1D‐MOF by a single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal (SCSC) transformation process at room temperature as confirmed by SXRD. We also monitored the continuous transformation states by FTIR and PXRD. Cu MOFs with 2D and 3D networks were also obtained from this 1D‐MOF by SCSC transformations. Furthermore, Cu MOFs with 0D, 1D, and 3D networks, MOP‐1, 1D‐MOF, and HKUST‐1, show unique performances in the kinetics of the CH bond catalytic oxidation reaction.
Influence of cell polarity on early development of the sea urchin embryo
Authors: Moorhouse Kathleen S. , Gudejko Heather F.M. , McDougall Alex , Burgess David R.
Published: August 2015

Background: Establishment and maintenance of cell polarity is critical for normal embryonic development. Previously, it was thought that the echinoderm embryo remained relatively unpolarized until the first asymmetric division at the 16‐cell stage. Here, we analyzed roles of the cell polarity regulators, the PAR complex proteins, and how their disruption in early development affects later developmental milestones. Results: We found that PAR6, aPKC, and CDC42 localize to the apical cortex as early as the 2‐cell stage and that this localization is retained through the gastrula stage. Of interest, PAR1 also colocalizes with these apical markers through the gastrula stage. Additionally, PAR1 was found to be in complex with aPKC, but not PAR6. PAR6, aPKC, and CDC42 are anchored in the cortical actin cytoskeleton by assembled myosin. Furthermore, assembled myosin was found to be necessary to maintain proper PAR6 localization through subsequent cleavage divisions. Interference with myosin assembly prevented the embryos from reaching the blastula stage, while transient disruptions of either actin or microtubules did not have this effect. Conclusions: These observations suggest that disruptions of the polarity in the early embryo can have a significant impact on the ability of the embryo to reach later critical stages in development. Developmental Dynamics 244:1469–1484, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TeO2 Nanoparticle Loaded Graphitic Carbon Nitride Hybrids: Their Preparation and Catalytic Activities in the Thermal Decomposition of Ammonium Perchlorate
Authors: Li Qi , He Yi , Peng Rufang
Published: August 2015

TeO2 nanoparticle‐loaded graphitic carbon nitride hybrids (TeO2NPs/g‐C3N4) were successfully prepared by a calcination strategy. Various characterization and detection techniques were used to analyze its structure and properties. It was found that upon the addition of 10 wt.‐% of the as‐prepared hybrids, the onset decomposition temperature of ammonium perchlorate (AP) decreased by 104.4 °C. In addition, the addition of TeO2 NPs resulted in an increase in the surface area up to 8.8 m2 g–1 for g‐C3N4, which is three times larger than that of the bulk g‐C3N4 (2.8 m2 g–1). Furthermore, g‐C3N4 reacted with HClO4 by Lewis acid–base interaction, which resulted in separation of HClO4 from AP lattice. Notably, the separation of the HClO4 gas molecule led to continued decomposition of AP, as this decomposition reaction is reversible. With this in mind, a catalytic mechanism based on Lewis acid–base interaction was proposed to illustrate the catalytic process in the thermal decomposition of AP.
New Insight into a Deceptively Simple Reaction: The Coordination of bpy to RuII–Carbonyl Precursors – The Central Role of the fac‐[Ru(bpy)Cl(CO)3]+ Intermediate and the Chloride Rebound Mechanism
Authors: Balducci Gabriele , Iengo Elisabetta , Demitri Nicola , Alessio Enzo
Published: August 2015

This work demonstrates how a careful reexamination of well‐trodden fields can fill conceptual gaps that previously escaped full understanding. The coordination of 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) to the known RuII–chlorido–carbonyl precursors – the dinuclear [RuCl2(CO)3]2 (P1) and the polymeric [RuCl2(CO)2]n (P2) – has been investigated by several groups in the past, and a remarkably large number of ruthenium–mono(bpy)–carbonyl compounds were identified and fully characterized. Many were investigated as catalysts or key intermediates for the photochemical, electrochemical, and photo‐electrochemical reduction of CO2, and for the water–gas shift reaction. Nevertheless, even though most – if not all – of the reaction products are known already, a careful examination of the literature led us to believe that a convincing general scheme interconnecting them all was still missing and important questions remained unanswered. For this reason, we investigated the reactivity of two mononuclear RuII–carbonyl–dmso precursors, trans,cis,cis‐[RuCl2(CO)2(dmso‐O)2] (P3) and fac‐[RuCl2(CO)3(dmso‐O)] (P4) – which can be considered as “activated forms” of P2 and P1, respectively – towards the coordination of bpy. Compounds P3 and P4 allowed us to gain new mechanistic insight and a deeper level of understanding. In particular, we found that coordination of bpy to P4 (or P1) generates first the tricarbonyl cation fac‐[Ru(bpy)Cl(CO)3]+. This key intermediate undergoes the facile and selective nucleophilic attack on the CO trans to Cl (by RO– in alcoholic solvents or OH– from adventitious water in other solvents), leading to all other species. We also demonstrated that Cl– – even when in large excess – is unable to replace a carbonyl on fac‐[Ru(bpy)Cl(CO)3]+. However, the chloride set free from the precursor competes efficiently with bpy for the coordination to RuII (chloride rebound mechanism).
Unexpected Reactivity of Red Phosphorus in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Groh Matthias F. , Paasch Silvia , Weiz Alexander , Ruck Michael , Brunner Eike
Published: August 2015

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups of Michael Ruck and Eike Brunner at the Technische Universität Dresden, Germany. The cover image shows the enhanced reactivity of red phosphorus in the employed ionic liquid. Dissolved iodine molecules (yellow spheres) etch red phosphorus to form either molecular iodides like PI3 or phosphorus nanoparticles. The formation of the different species is monitored by liquid‐ (top) and solid‐phase (bottom) NMR spectroscopy.
Synthesis of Allyl Carbamates through the Regioselective Domino Reaction of ­Amines, CO2, and Unsymmetrical Allyl Chlorides under Pd Catalysis
Authors: Cai Juewang , Zhang Min , Zhao Xiaoming
Published: August 2015

The regioselective domino reaction of CO2 (1 atm), amines, and unsymmetrical allyl chlorides in the presence of a palladium complex and K3PO4 under mild conditions to provide allyl carbamates in good yields with excellent regioselectivity (99:1) was accomplished.
CuAAC Synthesis and Anion Binding Properties of Bile Acid Derived Tripodal Ligands
Authors: Erzunov Dmitry A. , Latyshev Gennadij V. , Averin Alexey D. , Beletskaya Irina P. , Lukashev Nikolay V.
Published: August 2015

The copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition reaction was used for the preparation of a series of bis‐ and tris‐3‐ and 24‐5β‐cholanetriazolyl derivatives of phosphorus acids, which contained anion‐binding triazolium sites and hydrophobic cholane residues. The influence of the location of the triazolium moiety (in 3α‐, 3β‐position) on fluoride‐ion complexation was investigated. The anion‐binding properties of tris(triazolium) ligands were studied for a series of inorganic and organic anions and high complexation constants were observed with fluoride, hydrosulfate, and benzoate anions.
Azadioxatriangulenium: Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Reactive Dyes for Bioconjugation
Authors: Bora Ilkay , Bogh Sidsel A. , Santella Marco , Rosenberg Martin , Sørensen Thomas Just , Laursen Bo W.
Published: August 2015

Azadioxatriangulenium (ADOTA) is a fluorescent triangulenium dye with a long fluorescence lifetime, highly polarized transitions and emission in the red part of the visible spectrum. These properties make the chromophore suited for application in fluorescence polarization/anisotropy assays. To be useful for these applications, reactive forms of the dyes must be available in significant quantities. Here, the synthesis and photophysical properties of amine‐reactive N‐hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) esters and a thiol‐reactive maleimide derivative of ADOTA are reported. The synthesis involves two steps of nucleophilic bridge‐forming reactions starting from tris(2,6‐dimethoxyphenyl)methylium tetrafluoroborate, which can readily be prepared on a 100 g scale. In the third and final step the reactive NHS or maleimide groups are formed. The beneficial photophysical properties of the ADOTA chromophore are maintained in these derivatives, and we conclude that these systems are ideal to study protein motion and protein–protein interactions for systems of up to 1000 kDa.
Creation of an ultra scale‐down bioreactor mimic for rapid development of lignocellulosic enzymatic hydrolysis processes
Authors: Conroy Neil , Tebble Ian , Lye Gary J
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND

Cellulosic bioethanol processes involve several steps, all of which require experimental optimisation. A significant aid to this research would be a validated ultra scale‐down (USD) model that could be used to perform rapid, wide ranging screening and optimisation experiments using limited materials under process relevant conditions.

RESULTS

In this work, the use of 30 mL shaken conical tubes as a USD model for an enzymatic hydrolysis process is established. The approach is demonstrated for the hydrolysis of distillers' dried grains with solubles (DDGS). Results from the USD tubes closely mimic those obtained from 4 L stirred tanks, in terms of the rate, composition and concentrations of sugars released, representing an 80‐fold scale reduction. The utility of the USD approach is illustrated by investigating factors that may be limiting hydrolysis yields at high solids loadings. Washing the residual solids periodically during hydrolysis allowed 100% of the available sugar to be hydrolysed using commercially available enzymes.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrate that the USD system reported successfully mimics the performance of conventional stirred tanks under industrially relevant conditions. The utility of the system was confirmed through its use to investigate performance limitation using a commercially relevant feedstock. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative accuracy of preoperative tumor size assessment on mammography, sonography, and MRI: Is the accuracy affected by breast density or cancer subtype?
Authors: Leddy Rebecca , Irshad Abid , Metcalfe Allie , Mabalam Pramod , Abid Ahad , Ackerman Susan , Lewis Madelene
Published: August 2015

Purpose

To compare the accuracy of preoperative breast tumor size measurements obtained on three imaging modalities (mammography [MM], sonography [US], and MRI) with those obtained on final pathologic examination for different breast densities and various tumor types.

Methods

Records from patients who underwent breast cancer lumpectomy between 2008 and 2012 and in whom tumor was seen on all three imaging modalities were retrospectively reviewed for maximum tumor size measurements. Patients with positive tumor margins and those who had undergone neoadjuvant chemotherapy were excluded. Tumor size measurements obtained on the three imaging modalities were compared for accuracy with those obtained during the final pathologic examination. Differences were analyzed for the whole group and for subgroups according to breast density and tumor type.

Results

In total, 57 patients were included, in whom wire‐localization lumpectomy was performed without neoadjuvant chemotherapy; negative surgical margins for tumor were obtained, and tumor was preoperatively visualized on all three imaging modalities. The mean (± SEM) tumor size measured on MRI was significantly greater than that measured on pathology (p < 0.001), whereas the sizes measured on US and MM were not statistically significantly different from that measured on pathology (p = 0.62 and p = 0.57). Tumor size measured on MRI was greater than that measured on both US and MM (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001). Compared with the measurements obtained on pathology, that obtained on US showed moderate agreement (Lin concordance correlation coefficient [CCC], 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56–0.82); poorer agreement was found for the sizes obtained on MM (CCC, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.38–0.72) and MRI (CCC, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.31–0.65). No difference in comparative accuracy of size measurement was noted between dense and nondense breast tissue. MRI overestimated tumor size in ductal cancers (p < 0.001) and slightly underestimated it in lobular cancers.

Conclusions

Preoperative MRI significantly overestimated tumor size. Measurements obtained on US and MM were more accurate irrespective of breast density, with US measurements being slightly more accurate than MM measurements. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:17–25, 2016
Refractory primary medication nonadherence: Prevalence and predictors after pharmacist counseling at hospital discharge
Authors: Wooldridge Kathleene , Schnipper Jeffrey L. , Goggins Kathryn , Dittus Robert S. , Kripalani Sunil
Published: August 2015

Successful secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease relies on medication therapy; thus, minimizing nonadherence is a focus for improving patient outcomes. Receipt of discharge medication counseling has been associated with improved drug knowledge and adherence. We evaluated the prevalence and predictors of postdischarge primary nonadherence (not filling new prescriptions) in patients who received discharge medication counseling by a pharmacist (ie, refractory to intervention) as part of a randomized controlled trial. Of 341 patients, 9.4% of patients did not fill all prescriptions after discharge. Patients who were living alone were more likely to not fill their medications compared to those who were married or cohabitating (odds ratio [OR]: 2.2, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–4.8, P = 0.047). Patients who were discharged with greater than 10 medications were also more likely to demonstrate primary nonadherence (OR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.05–4.98, P = 0.036). Patients with lower income were less likely to fill prescriptions in univariate analysis (P = 0.04) but not multivariable analysis. Our study demonstrates that among patients hospitalized for acute cardiovascular events, primary medication nonadherence persisted despite discharge medication counseling. Targeted or multimodal approaches that address patient‐specific barriers, such as cost, social isolation, and polypharmacy, in addition to discharge counseling, may further facilitate adherence. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:48–51. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
An imaging evaluation of the simultaneously integrated boost breast radiotherapy technique
Authors: Turley Jessica , Claridge Mackonis Elizabeth
Published: August 2015

Introduction

To evaluate in‐field megavoltage (MV) imaging of simultaneously integrated boost (SIB) breast fields to determine its feasibility in treatment verification for the SIB breast radiotherapy technique, and to assess whether the current‐imaging protocol and treatment margins are sufficient.

Methods

For nine patients undergoing SIB breast radiotherapy, in‐field MV images of the SIB fields were acquired on days that regular treatment verification imaging was performed. The in‐field images were matched offline according to the scar wire on digitally reconstructed radiographs. The offline image correction results were then applied to a margin recipe formula to calculate safe margins that account for random and systematic uncertainties in the position of the boost volume when an offline correction protocol has been applied.

Results

After offline assessment of the acquired images, 96% were within the tolerance set in the current department‐imaging protocol. Retrospectively performing the maximum position deviations on the Eclipse™ treatment planning system demonstrated that the clinical target volume (CTV) boost received a minimum dose difference of 0.4% and a maximum dose difference of 1.4% less than planned. Furthermore, applying our results to the Van Herk margin formula to ensure that 90% of patients receive 95% of the prescribed dose, the calculated CTV margins were comparable to the current departmental procedure used.

Conclusion

Based on the in‐field boost images acquired and the feasible application of these results to the margin formula the current CTV‐planning target volume margins used are appropriate for the accurate treatment of the SIB boost volume without additional imaging.
Conformations of cationized linear oligosaccharides revealed by FTMS combined with in‐ESI H/D exchange
Authors: Kostyukevich Yury , Kononikhin Alexey , Popov Igor , Nikolaev Eugene
Published: August 2015

Previously (Kostyukevich et al. Anal Chem 2014, 86, 2595), we have reported that oligosaccharides anions are produced in the electrospray in two different conformations, which differ by the rate of gas phase hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange reaction. In the present paper, we apply the in‐electrospray ionization (ESI) source H/D exchange approach for the investigation of the oligosaccharides cations formed by attaching of metal ions (Na, K) to the molecule. It was observed that the formation of different conformers can be manipulated by varying the temperature of the desolvating capillary of the ESI interphase. Separation of the conformers was performed using gas phase H/D approach. Because the conformers have different rates of the H/D exchange reaction, the deuterium distribution spectrum becomes bimodal. It was found that the conformation corresponding to the slow H/D exchange rate dominates in the spectrum when the capillary temperature is low (~200 °C), and the conformation corresponding to the fast H/D exchange rate dominates at high (~400 °C) temperatures. In the intermediate temperature region, two conformers are present simultaneously. It was also observed that large oligosaccharide requires higher temperature for the formation of another conformer. It was found that the presence of the conformers considerably depends on the solvent used for ESI and the pH. We have compared these results with the previously performed in‐ESI source H/D exchange experiments with peptides and proteins. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of novel osteochondrosis— Associated genes
Authors: Mirams Michiko , Ayodele Babatunde A. , Tatarczuch Liliana , Henson Frances M. , Pagel Charles N. , Mackie Eleanor J.
Published: August 2015

During the early stages of articular osteochondrosis, cartilage is retained in subchondral bone, but the pathophysiology of this condition of growing humans and domestic animals is poorly understood. A subtractive hybridization study was undertaken to compare gene expression between the cartilage of early experimentally induced equine osteochondrosis lesions and control cartilage. Of the many putative differentially expressed genes identified, eight were confirmed by quantitative PCR analysis as differentially expressed, in addition to those already known to be associated with early lesions. Genes encoding vacuolar H+‐ATPase V0subunit d2(ATP6V0D2), cathepsin K, integrin‐binding sialoprotein, integrin αV, low density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 4, lumican, osteopontin, and thymosin β4 (TMSB4) were expressed at higher levels in lesions than in control cartilage. These genes included 34 genes not previously identified in cartilage. Some genes identified as associated with early lesions are known chondrocyte hypertrophy‐associated genes, and in transmission electron microscopy studies normal hypertrophic chondrocytes were observed in lesions. Differential expression of ATP6V0D2 and TMSB4 in the cartilage of early naturally occurring osteochondrosis lesions was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. These results identify novel osteochondrosis‐associated genes and provide evidence that articular osteochondrosis does not necessarily result from failure of chondrocytes to undergo hypertrophy. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:404–411, 2016.
Forms and solubility of plant nutrient elements in tropical plant waste biochars
Authors: Prakongkep Nattaporn , Gilkes Robert John , Wiriyakitnateekul Wanpen
Published: August 2015

Thailand is an agriculture‐based country which produces large amounts of agricultural waste. Making biochar from this waste can reduce pollution, decrease costs of production, and increase C sequestration. The agronomic benefits of biochar are partly derived from the available plant nutrients in biochar. This study investigated the fertilizer value of biochars manufactured by slow pyrolysis. Pyrolysis temperature and feedstock type affect nutrient concentrations and nutrient element speciation in biochar. The physio‐chemical, mineralogical and structural properties of biochars made from 14 agriculture wastes (soybean cake, corncob, lemon peel, sugar palm fibre, durian shell, tamarind wood, coconut fibre, coconut shell, bamboo wood, rice husk, eucalyptus wood, oil palm fruit, coffee waste, and bagasse) were investigated. The plant nutrients in biochar mostly occurred in crystalline minerals which were present on the surface and inside the cell structure of biochar. Most biochars examined in this research contained calcite (CaCO3). The presence in biochars of several K‐minerals [archerite (KH2PO4), chlorocalcite (KCaCl3), kalicinite (KHCO3), pyrocoproite (K2MgP2O7), struvite‐K (KMgPO4 · 6 H2O), and sylvite (KCl)] encourages the use of biochar as a K‐fertilizer. Fibre, fruit and wood biochars contained considerable amounts of K, Ca, and P. Sugar palm and coconut fibres also contained high level of Na in halite. This study recommends the utilization of biochars manufactured from sugar palm fibre, coconut fibre, durian shell, and oil palm fruit as fertilizers. With their appreciable contents of plant nutrients in highly to moderately soluble compounds these biochars should be effective fertilizers, especially for use by organic farmers who cannot use any chemical fertilizers.
Viewpoint image generation for head tracking 3D display using multi‐camera and approximate depth information
Authors: Date Munekazu , Takada Hideaki , Kojima Akira
Published: August 2015

A simple and high image quality method for viewpoint image synthesis from multi‐camera images for a stereoscopic 3D display using head tracking is proposed. In this method, slices of images for depth layers are made using approximate depth information, the slices are linearly blended corresponding to the distance between the viewpoint and cameras at each layer, and the layers are overlaid from the perspective of viewpoint. Because the linear blending automatically compensates for depth error because of the visual effects of depth‐fused 3D (DFD), the resulting image is natural to observer's perception. Smooth motion parallax of wide depth range objects induced by viewpoint movement for left‐and‐right and front‐and‐back directions is achieved using multi‐camera images and approximate depth information. Because the calculation algorithm is very simple, it is suitable for real time 3D display applications.
Projection displays: New technologies, challenges, and applications
Authors: Candry Patrick , Maximus Bart
Published: August 2015

The achievable color gamut and light output of projection displays based on light‐emitting diodes (LEDs), phosphor conversion, and lasers are discussed. The color appearance phenomena, colorfulness, and the Helmholtz–Kohlrausch effect are discussed in the context of LED and laser illumination of projection displays, as well as some pitfalls concerning the interpretation of the Helmholtz–Kohlrausch effect. Also the laser speckle phenomenon and the characterization of it are addressed. The importance of both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) contrast and the sequential contrast of projectors, as well as the discrepancy between measured and perceived contrasts, are explained. Visibility criteria for contouring artifacts are explained and compared with new emerging electro‐optical transfer functions that are more adapted to this issue. Stereoscopic solutions and early prototypes of autostereoscopic multi‐view, super multi‐view projection displays, and electro‐holographic displays are discussed as well as the limiting factors of these systems in the context of display resolution, and LED and laser light sources.
Hybrid aligned nematic liquid crystal smart glass with asymmetrical daylight controls
Authors: Yamaguchi Rumiko , Takasu Tomoya
Published: August 2015

We have proposed a hybrid alignment nematic liquid crystal cell using a polymer‐stabilized technology. The cell shows a reverse mode scattering property and is transparent at any viewing angle in the off‐state. The cell turns to opaque in the on‐state and has an asymmetrical scattering property at incident angles. Applying the cell to a smart glass, the cell can selectively scatter a midday sunlight with a function of window blinds. In a polymerization process, an ultraviolet (UV) penetration depth is carefully considered, which results in a change of polymer morphology. The UV irradiation from a homogeneous alignment substrate side causes a polymer‐rich layer near the substrate and the stronger scattering in the on‐state.
Effect on electrical performance of titanium co‐sputtered IZO active‐channel thin‐film transistor
Authors: Park Chanhee , Lim Yooseong , Ha Seungsoo , Im Yongjin , Jang Minhyung , Choi Seung‐il , Park Ji‐in , Yi Moonsuk
Published: August 2015

We investigated the electrical performance of Ti–IZO active‐channel layer thin‐film transistors (TFTs) using a radio frequency (RF) magnetron co‐sputtering system to co‐sputter IZO and Ti targets. The samples were fabricated by changing the RF gun power of the IZO. The other parameters such as the RF gun power of the Ti target, oxygen partial pressure [O2/(Ar + O2)], and initial and process pressure of the chamber were unchanged. Unlike the sample sputtered only with IZO, the thin films of the Ti–IZO samples could control the oxygen vacancy because Ti reacts with the oxygen in the IZO. Therefore, Ti–IZO thin films can suppress the carrier concentration and thus have an effect on the electrical performance of TFTs.
Characteristics of a‐IZO TFTs with high‐κ HfSiOx gate insulator annealed in various conditions
Authors: Lim Yoo Seong , Im Yong Jin , Ha Seung Soo , Park Chan Hee , Jang Min Hyung , Choi Seung‐il , Park Ji‐in , Yi Moonsuk
Published: August 2015

In this work, we investigate the enhanced performance of amorphous indium zinc oxides‐based thin film transistors with hafnium silicate (HfSiOx) gate insulators. HfSiOx gate insulators annealed at various conditions are deposited by cosputtering of hafnium oxide and Si. The structural properties of HfSiOx are investigated using the atomic force microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). techniques. Furthermore, the electrical characteristics of HfSiOx are analyzed to investigate the effect of annealing conditions. We obtain optimal results for thin film transistors with HfSiOx gate insulators annealed for 1 h at 100 °C, with a saturation mobility of 1.2 cm2/V · s, threshold voltage of 2.2 V, on current/off current ratio of 2.0 × 106, and an insulator surface roughness of 0.187 nm root mean square.
Magnetic octadecyl‐based matrix solid‐phase dispersion coupled with gas chromatography with mass spectrometry in a proof‐of‐concept determination of multi‐class pesticide residues in carrots
Authors: Binellas Charalampos S. , Stalikas Constantine D.
Published: August 2015

A novel procedure is put forward based on the combination of the well‐established matrix solid‐phase dispersion and the magnetic and sorption properties of magnetic octadecyl in the presence of n‐octanol and was employed in a proof‐of‐concept sample preparation and determination of several classes of pesticide residues in carrots. The procedure does not require the transfer of blend to cartridge and subsequent packing, nor any co‐sorbent for extract clean up. The hydrophobic magnetic nanoparticles utilized as a sorbent, can be retrieved by n‐octanol under the application of a magnetic field due to hydrophobic interactions. Elution of pesticide residues is then carried out with an organic solvent. A total of 26 pesticides were included in this procedure and the target compounds were analyzed using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry in the selective ion monitoring mode. The average extraction recoveries obtained from carrot samples fortified at three different concentrations (20, 50, and 500 μg/kg) were 77–107%. The estimated limits of quantitation for most target analytes were in the low μg/kg level. The study demonstrates that the proposed extraction procedure is simple and effective, avoiding a clean‐up step for the sample preparation of vegetable.
Low Bandgap Semiconducting Copolymer Nanoparticles by Suzuki Cross‐Coupling Polymerization in Alcoholic Dispersed Media
Authors: Parrenin Laurie , Brochon Cyril , Hadziioannou Georges , Cloutet Eric
Published: August 2015

The synthesis and formulation of organic semiconductors for the emerging technology of organic electronics requires the use of preparative methods and solvents being environment friendly. Today most of the active layer materials for the organic photovoltaic devices and modules are using chlorinated solvents, which are toxic and hazardous. In this work, the synthesis of poly[N‐9′‐heptadecanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4,7‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole] (PCDTBT) in propan‐1‐ol is presented as the dispersant continuous phase in the presence of poly(vinylpyrrolidone) used as stabilizer. Suzuki–Miyaura polycondensation of 9‐(9‐heptadecanyl)‐9H‐carbazole‐2,7‐diboronic acid bis(pinacol) ester and 4,7‐bis(2‐bromo‐5‐thienyl)‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole in alcohol dispersion yields colloidally stable nanoparticles of PCDTBT with particles size of 330–1300 nm, depending on the stabilizer concentration. Other reaction parameters are also discussed such as the amount of base or Pd catalyst.

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