bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Binary and Ternary Blends of Polypropylene Types – Influence on the Homogeneity of Biaxial‐Oriented Films
Authors: Schubert Dirk W. , Kaschta Joachim , Seidl Stephan , Kunzelmann Peter 
Published: July 2016

SummaryBiaxial‐oriented polypropylene (BOPP) is one of the most used materials for industrial films and food packaging. In terms of environmental and economic issues, the reduction of the film thickness, increasing the homogeneity, enhancing the process efficiency and stability are in the focus of this work. A systematic investigation on the biaxial stretching process is presented in this study. Therefore, two commercial linear polypropylenes with different molar masses and a commercial long‐chain‐branched polypropylene were used to obtain binary and ternary blends to adjust the elongation behavior on the molecular level. The blending was carried out using a cast film process on a twin‐screw extruder. The cast films obtained, were investigated before and after biaxial stretching. The thickness distribution of the films, were used as a measure of the film homogeneity, before and after the film stretching process. It turns out that casting and biaxial stretching are competing steps with respect to the film homogeneity. The casting step is dominated by the extrusion behavior of the blends. With increasing amount of the long‐chain branched material extrusion flow instabilities appear leading to an irregular surface and to a poor film homogeneity. Contrarily, long‐chain branches promote a more homogeneous deformation during the biaxial stretching inducing strain hardening which leads to a self‐healing effect and thus to an improved film homogeneity. The homogeneity of the final stretched film depends on both, casting and stretching. Therefore, a desirable polymer blend recipe with a medium amount of long‐chain branches is revealed for the stretched film.
Contribution of Fiber Undulation to Mechanics of Three‐Dimensional Collagen‐I Gel
Authors: Lin Shengmao , Gu Linxia 
Published: July 2016

SummaryThe collagen‐I gel is extensively used as a scaffold material in tissue engineering due to its ability to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, the mechanics of collagen‐I gel is investigated using a numerical model of three‐dimensional collagen network. The resulted mechanical behavior was validated against the published experimental data. Results illustrated that fiber alignment was dominated in the low strain region, and its transition to stretching dominated phenomena at higher strain led to the strain stiffening of collagen gel. The collagen undulation at the microscopic level was found to delay the initiation of strain stiffening.
Computational model coupling mode II discrete fracture propagation with continuum damage zone evolution
Authors: Jin Wencheng , Xu Hao , Arson Chloé , Busetti Seth 
Published: July 2016

SummaryWe propose a numerical method that couples a cohesive zone model (CZM) and a finite element‐based continuum damage mechanics (CDM) model. The CZM represents a mode II macro‐fracture, and CDM finite elements (FE) represent the damage zone of the CZM. The coupled CZM/CDM model can capture the flow of energy that takes place between the bulk material that forms the matrix and the macroscopic fracture surfaces. The CDM model, which does not account for micro‐crack interaction, is calibrated against triaxial compression tests performed on Bakken shale, so as to reproduce the stress/strain curve before the failure peak. Based on a comparison with Kachanov's micro‐mechanical model, we confirm that the critical micro‐crack density value equal to 0.3 reflects the point at which crack interaction cannot be neglected. The CZM is assigned a pure mode II cohesive law that accounts for the dependence of the shear strength and energy release rate on confining pressure. The cohesive shear strength of the CZM is calibrated by calculating the shear stress necessary to reach a CDM damage of 0.3 during a direct shear test. We find that the shear cohesive strength of the CZM depends linearly on the confining pressure. Triaxial compression tests are simulated, in which the shale sample is modeled as an FE CDM continuum that contains a predefined thin cohesive zone representing the idealized shear fracture plane. The shear energy release rate of the CZM is fitted in order to match to the post‐peak stress/strain curves obtained during experimental tests performed on Bakken shale. We find that the energy release rate depends linearly on the shear cohesive strength. We then use the calibrated shale rheology to simulate the propagation of a meter‐scale mode II fracture. Under low confining pressure, the macroscopic crack (CZM) and its damaged zone (CDM) propagate simultaneously (i.e., during the same loading increments). Under high confining pressure, the fracture propagates in slip‐friction, that is, the debonding of the cohesive zone alternates with the propagation of continuum damage. The computational method is applicable to a range of geological injection problems including hydraulic fracturing and fluid storage and should be further enhanced by the addition of mode I and mixed mode (I+II+III) propagation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delayed gastric emptying as a proposed mechanism of action during intragastric balloon therapy: Results of a prospective study
Authors: Gómez Victoria , Woodman George , Abu Dayyeh Barham K. 
Published: July 2016

ObjectiveThe effects of intragastric balloon (IGB) therapy on gastric emptying (GE) and weight loss remain to be fully understood. The effects of IGB on GE were investigated in this study.MethodsThis was a single‐center, randomized, controlled study in which subjects with obesity either underwent IGB placement or were matched controls. IGB was removed at 6 months. GE was measured at baseline and at weeks 0, 8, 16, 27, and 39. Percent total body weight loss (%TBWL) was measured at 6 and 12 months.ResultsTwenty‐nine subjects with obesity were enrolled; 15 were randomized to IGB placement and 14 to control. Two subjects had the IGB removed early. At baseline, 1‐ and 2‐h gastric retention values were comparable between the groups but increased in the IGB group at weeks 8 and 16 (during IGB treatment) and then returned to baseline levels at 27 and 39 weeks. A greater increase in gastric retention from baseline to 8 weeks was associated with higher %TBWL.ConclusionsGE in subjects with IGB is delayed but returns to normal after IGB removal. Greater changes in increased gastric retention were associated with greater %TBWL. Altering gastric motility is a significant mechanism of action by which the IGB results in weight loss.
Comparability of the age and sex distribution of the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink and the total Dutch population
Authors: de Jong Roy G.P.J. , Gallagher Arlene M. , Herrett Emily , Masclee Ad A.M. , Janssen‐Heijnen Maryska L.G. , de Vries Frank 
Published: July 2016

AbstractPurposeThe UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) is increasingly being used by Dutch researchers in epidemiology and pharmacoepidemiology. It is however unclear if the UK CPRD is representative of the Dutch population and whether study results would apply to the Dutch population. Therefore, as first step, our objective was to compare the age and sex distribution of the CPRD with the total Dutch population.MethodsAs a measure of representativeness, the age and sex distribution of the UK CPRD were visually and numerically compared with Dutch census data from the StatLine database of the Dutch National Bureau of Statistics in 2011.ResultsThe age distribution of men and women in the CPRD population was comparable to the Dutch male and female population. Differences of more than 10% only occurred in older age categories (75+ in men and 80+ in women).ConclusionsResults from observational studies that have used CPRD data are applicable to the Dutch population, and a useful resource for decision making in the Netherlands. Nevertheless, differences in drug exposure likelihood between countries should be kept in mind, as these could still cause variations in the actual population studied, thereby decreasing its generalizability. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of bromine substituent on optical properties of aryl compounds
Authors: Zhang Chao‐Zhi , Li Ting , Yuan Yang , Gu Cheng‐Yue , Niu Meng‐Xiao , Cao Hui 
Published: July 2016

AbstractSubstituents significantly affect optical properties of organic compounds. In this study, a series of organic compounds were synthesized. Ultraviolet‐visible and cyclic voltammetry spectra were determined. The relationships between the number of π electron in an aryl ring and the redshift (and molecular orbital energy levels) were studied. To investigate mechanisms of the bromine substituent effects, theoretical calculations were carried out. Ultraviolet‐visible spectra of bromine‐containing compounds exhibit obvious redshifts (0.04‐0.17 eV) of the maximal absorption wavelengths and enhanced absorbance (11%‐57%) compared with corresponding reference compounds. The lowest unoccupied and highest occupied molecular orbital energy levels of compounds containing bromine substituents are 0.05 to 0.60 and 0.02 to 0.40 eV lower than that of corresponding reference compounds. On the whole, the redshifts and the reduced molecular orbital energy levels caused by bromine substituent decrease with the increase in the number of π electron in an aryl ring. The effects would be attributed to strong p‐π conjugation between p electron in the bromine substituent and π electrons in aryl rings. Therefore, this paper suggests a useful way for tuning optical absorption and molecular orbital energy levels of aryl compounds.
Photodegradation of cyprodinil under UV–visible irradiation – chemical and toxicological approaches
Authors: Nicol Edith , Chayata Houda , Genty Christophe , Bouchonnet Stéphane , Bourcier Sophie 
Published: July 2016

RationaleCyprodinil is a fungicide active on grapes, strawberries, tomatoes, and many other fruits. Under UV–visible irradiation, it undergoes photodegradation through various processes to form transformation products (TPs) whose structures and potential toxicities are unknown. The structures of the TPs were elucidated by comparing the photodegradation of cyprodinil and cyprodinil‐D5. The potential toxicities of these compounds were compared with that of cyprodinil.MethodsAqueous solutions of cyprodinil were irradiated in a reactor equipped with a mercury vapor lamp. Analyses were carried out using high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to a quadrupole time‐of‐flight (QTOF) mass spectrometer or to a SolarixXR 9.4 Tesla Fourier transform (FT) mass spectrometer. High‐resolution mass measurements, MS/MS and isotopic labeling experiments allowed structural elucidation of the cyprodinil TPs. The toxicities were estimated by three tests in silico using the TEST software and in vitro bioassays using Vibrio fischeri bacteria. These bioassays were carried out on irradiated solution for several exposure times and non‐irradiated solutions.ResultsThe structures of 19 photoproducts were characterized by LC/HRMS/MS after 4 h of irradiation of a cyprodinil aqueous solution. The use of cyprodinil‐D5 allowed the TPs to be characterized with more confidence. Knowing the structure of the TPs allows the estimation of their potential toxicities by in silico tests. Most of the photoproducts are potentially more toxic than the parent compound, based on the oral rat LD50 values, and most of them might induce more developmental and mutagenic toxicities. In vitro assays on Vibrio fischeri bacteria showed that the global ecotoxicity of the cyprodinil solution significantly increases with irradiation time.ConclusionsStructures of photoproducts were characterized after irradiation of a cyprodinil aqueous solution combining LC/HRMS, LC/HRMS/MS and the use of a labeled compound. Their formations imply several photodegradation reactions, namely direct bond cleavages, cyclization, isomerization and hydroxylation. Most of the TPs exhibit a toxicity significantly higher than that of the parent molecule. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental investigation of dry mechanical beam–column joints for precast concrete based frames
Authors: Nzabonimpa J.D. , Hong Won‐Kee , Park Seon‐Chee 
Published: July 2016

SummaryThis paper proposes dry mechanical beam–column joints for fully restrained moment connections of concrete components. This novel joint can be used for reinforced concrete precast frames and steel–concrete composite precast frames. The new dry mechanical joint consists of extended steel plates with bolts designed to transfer tension and compression forces, providing fully restrained moment connections at the beam–column joint. The extended end plate with bolts introduced for column‐beam joint assembly was originally used in the steel moment frame, as introduced in AISC 358. This study developed similar but unique mechanical joint details for concrete frames in order to provide fully restrained moment connections for both steel–concrete composite precast frames and reinforced concrete precast frames. Experimental and analytical investigations were performed to verify the structural behavior of fully restrained moment connections for concrete components in order to identify the parameters that influence the structural behavior of dry mechanical moment concrete connections. These connections are expected to be used in modular offsite construction for buildings and heavy industrial plants. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of NF‐κB activation and Th1/Th2 imbalance in pulmonary toxicity induced by nano NiO
Authors: Chang Xuhong , Zhu An , Liu Fangfang , Zou Lingyue , Su Li , Li Sheng , Sun Yingbiao 
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACTWith the progress of nanotechnology, nano nickel oxide (NiO) has been extensively used as sensors, battery electrodes, catalysts, and cosmetics. Previous researches verified that nano NiO could exert pulmonary toxicity, but its mechanism was unclear. To shed light upon this, the role of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation and Th1/Th2 imbalance were to explore in pulmonary damage induced by nano NiO. Male Wistar rats were randomized into control group, nano NiO groups (0.015, 0.06, and 0.24 mg kg−1) and micro NiO group (0.024 mg kg−1) and treated by intratracheal instillation twice a week for 6 weeks. The results showed that the abnormal changes induced by nano NiO were found on indicators of nitrative stress (NO, TNOS, and iNOS), inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐2, and IL‐10) and cytokine‐induced neutrophil chemoattractants (CINC‐1, CINC‐2αβ, and CINC‐3) in lung tissue. In addition, nano NiO instillation induced the upregulated mRNA and protein expression of NF‐κB, inhibitor of κB kinase‐α (IKK‐α) and nuclear factor‐inducing kinase (NIK). The protein content of GATA‐3 increased as well as T‐bet decreased in nano NiO groups, and the ratio of T‐bet/GATA‐3, as a key evaluation indicator of Th1/Th2 balance, was lower than the control group. The findings indicated that nano NiO could enhance the nitrative stress and inflammatory response in lung tissue, and its mechanism was related to the NF‐κB activation and Th1/Th2 imbalance. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1354–1362, 2017.
Identifying Needs: a Qualitative Study of women's Experiences Regarding Rapid Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer in the DNA BONus Study
Authors: Augestad Mirjam Tonheim , Høberg‐Vetti Hildegunn , Bjorvatn Cathrine , Sekse Ragnhild Johanne Tveit 
Published: July 2016

AbstractGenetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer is increasingly being offered in newly diagnosed breast and ovarian cancer patients. This genetic information may influence treatment decisions. However, there are some concerns that genetic testing offered in an already vulnerable situation might be an extra burden to these women. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of women who had been offered and accepted genetic testing when newly diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer. Four semi‐structured focus‐group interviews were conducted with 17 women recruited from a Norwegian multicenter study. The material was condensed, and conventional qualitative analysis was used to identify patterns in the participants’ descriptions. Three core themes were identified: 1) being “beside oneself” 2) altruism and ethical dilemmas 3) the need for support and counselling to assist the decision process. The present study indicates that women who are offered genetic testing when newly diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer want a consultation with a health professional. Personalized support and counselling might empower women to improve their ability to manage and comprehend this overwhelming situation, and find meaning in this experience.
Ce1−x
Sm
x
O2−x/2—A novel type of ceramic material for thermal barrier coatings
Authors: Chen Xiao-ge , Zhang Haoming , Zhang Hong-song , Zhao Yong-de , Li Gang 
Published: July 2016

Abstract
In this study, Ce1−x
Sm
x
O2−x/2 ceramics were synthesized by sol–gel route and solid state sintering method. The phase structure was analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The morphologies of the synthesized powders and the corresponding bulk samples were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Their thermal diffusivities and thermal expansion coefficients were measured by the laser-flash method and the pushing-rod method, respectively. Results show that pure Ce1−x
Sm
x
O2−x/2 powders with single fluorite structure are synthesized successfully, and their microstructures of the corresponding bulk samples are very dense. With the increase of Sm2O3 content, their thermal expansion coefficients decrease due to the higher electro-negativity of Sm3+ ions as compared with that of Ce4+ ions. Their thermal conductivities at 1000 °C lie in the range of 1.62–2.02 W/(m·K) due to the phonon scattering caused by the substituted atoms and oxygen vacancies. The Ce1−x
Sm
x
O2−x/2 ceramics can be used as ceramic candidates for novel thermal barrier coatings (TBCs).
A Reflection on Practical Training in Legal Education in South Korea
Authors: OH Soogeun 
Published: July 2016

AbstractThe emphasis on practical training in legal education has come to the fore in many countries. It is little different in South Korea, where curricula for legal education now include a range of courses categorized as “practical training.” The author questions whether the subjects taught under the title “practical training” effectively prepare students for practice in the real world. Education in legal theory and practical training are connected, which makes the categorization of courses specifically aimed at practical training inappropriate. More emphasis should be given to instilling practice awareness throughout all of legal education. It is argued that, in order to develop professional skills, incorporating practice awareness throughout the entire legal education curricula is important—that is, not limiting such skills to practical training courses, but integrating them throughout the teaching of legal theory.
Comments on “Challenges Facing African Universities”
Authors: Saint William 
Published: July 2016

In tackling the topic of current challenges to African universities, Akilagpa Sawyerr has chosen to paint with a broad brush. While giving appropriate acknowledgment to the diversity and complexity of prevailing circumstances in each country, he has elected to focus on a limited number of important issues that he believes constitute, in varying degrees, common challenges to universities across the continent. In electing this approach, he shows a preference for illuminating the dynamic interrelationships among these challenges, and for situating them with regard to some of the larger economic and political forces that have shaped African history in the latter part of the twentieth century. In consequence, he necessarily foregoes in-depth analysis of specific issues. To provide such analysis would require a book, which I sincerely hope Prof. Sawyerr will undertake in the near future.What is valuable about this article? I would like to underscore three aspects.First, it provides a clear overview of the main challenges that have confronted African higher education, especially during the past decade, together with helpful interpretations of the causes and consequences of these events. It also incorporates much of the very recent explosion of research on this topic, particularly by African scholars. The bibliography itself is a valuable resource for those interested in the subject.
Language, Names, and War: The Case of Angola
Authors: Brinkman Inge 
Published: July 2016

Abstract:This article shows the links between naming practices and war. The focus is on MPLA war names used during the Angolan struggle for independence. These names are framed in the wider context of the relations between language and war. In many African contexts, names are not singular and fixed, but may change with every personal transformation. Entering the life of a soldier constitutes just such a drastic change. The article shows that through war names, a kaleidoscope of issues may be addressed, including the relations between language, rank, and power, personal history and popular culture, spirit possession and resurrection, self-description and labeling, writing and legitimacy, and secrecy and identity.
The Son of the Hawk Does Not Remain Abroad: The Urban–Rural Connection in Africa
Authors: Gugler Josef 
Published: July 2016

Abstract:Most rural–urban migrants maintain significant ties with their communities of origin in Africa south of the Sahara. Contrary to “modernist” assumptions that these ties would fade away, they often continue to be strong. This urban–rural connection has important consequences for rural–urban migration, for urban–rural return migration, for the rural economy, and for the political process. To understand the processes underpinning the urban–rural connection we need to distinguish different migration strategies and to deconstruct the notion of “rural.” Depending on their migration strategies, urban residents connect with a range of actors at the rural end: more or less closely related kin, kinship groups, non-kin groups, villages, larger political entities. These connections play out differently for men and women.