bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
New aspects of nonlinear elasticity of polymer gels and elastomers revealed by stretching experiments in various geometries
Authors: Urayama Kenji 
Published: May 2016

AbstractThis review focuses on the novel features of nonlinear elasticity for a range of gels and elastomers that were recently revealed through experiments using various types of strain such as uniaxial and biaxial stretching. Particular emphasis is placed on the magnitude of the cross‐effect of strains in different directions which can be characterized by unequal biaxial stretching. The studied materials include (1) markedly swollen hydrogels with a water content of 98%, (2) tetra‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) (Tetra‐PEG) gels with nearly uniform network structures without entanglement couplings of network strands, (3) slide‐ring gels with movable crosslinks along network strands and (4) elastomer foams with low densities of polymer solids. The magnitude of the cross‐effect of strains reflects the structural features of networks and crosslinks as well as bulk compressibility for each material. We also summarize recent results on strain‐driven swelling and the accompanying force reduction phenomena under various types of stretching. Remaining issues to be investigated are presented on the basis of existing results. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Role of in situ generated silica for rubber science and technology
Authors: Ohashi Takumi , Tohsan Atitaya , Ikeda Yuko 
Published: May 2016

AbstractFilled rubbers have a long history in rubber technology. Filler morphology in the rubber matrix significantly influences the performance of filled rubber products. Therefore, we have to achieve a certain morphology of filler in the rubbery matrix in order to enjoy good reinforcement. However, it has not been sufficiently known what kind of morphology is necessary for the reinforcement, because preparations of adequate models for the characterization of filler morphology have been difficult. The in situ silica filling of the rubber matrix can be modeled for the preparations. In this paper, the characteristic features of in situ silica generated in diene rubbers are reviewed, citing recent reports. Two important models are presented. One is a homogeneous silica filling in situ, producing soft rubber nanocomposites. The other is the formation of an in situ silica filler network, creating stiff rubber nanocomposites. The controlled in situ silica filling is useful to evaluate the reinforcement effect of filler in a rubber matrix. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Copper (I) Oxide (Cu2O) based back contact for p‐i‐n CdTe solar cells
Authors: Türck Johannes , Nonnenmacher Hermann‐Josef , Connor Paula M. L. , Siol Sebastian , Siepchen Bastian , Heimfarth Jan Peter , Klein Andreas , Jaegermann Wolfram 
Published: May 2016

AbstractIn this paper a promising solution for the notorious problem of manufacturing a stable low ohmic back contact of a CdTe thin film superstrate solar cell is presented without using elemental copper. Instead we have used a Cu2O layer inserted between the CdTe absorber and metal contact (Au). In contrast to the barrier free band alignment gained by using the transitivity rules, XPS measurements show a barrier in the valence band of the Cu2O layers directly after deposition, which results in a low performing JV curve. The contact can be improved by a short thermal treatment resulting in efficiencies superior to copper based contacts for standard CdS/CdTe hetero junction solar cells prepared on commercial glass/FTO substrates. By replacing the CdS window layer with a CdS:O buffer layer efficiencies of >15% could be achieved. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Corrosion Inhibition of Carbon Steel Pipelines by Some New Amphoteric and Di‐cationic Surfactants in Acidic Solution by Chemical and Electrochemical Methods
Authors: Hegazy M. A. , Azzam Eid M. S. , Kandil Nadia G. , Badawi A. M. , Sami R. M. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractThe inhibition effect of new synthesized amphoteric and di‐cationic surfactants, namely: 4‐((((1‐dodecylpyridin‐1‐ium bromide)‐4‐yl)methylene)amino)benzoate sodium (I) and 1‐dodecyl‐4‐(((1‐dodecylpyridin‐1‐ium‐4‐yl)imino)methyl)pyridin‐1‐ium bromide (II), respectively, on the corrosion of carbon steel in 1 M HCl have been investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Tafel polarization and weight loss measurements. The inhibition efficiencies obtained from all methods employed are in good agreement with each other. Tafel polarization studies showed that the surfactants are mixed type inhibitors. The adsorption of two compounds onto the surface of carbon steel in 1 M HCl obeys the Langmuir isotherm. Adsorption thermodynamic parameters reveal that the adsorption of inhibitors is a mixture of physical and chemical adsorption.
Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: Current evidence and future directions
Authors: Calsolaro Valeria , Edison Paul 
Published: May 2016

AbstractSeveral attempts have been made to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) using anti‐amyloid strategies with disappointing results. It is clear that the “amyloid cascade hypothesis” alone cannot fully explain the neuronal damage in AD, as evidenced both by autopsy and imaging studies. Neuroinflammation plays a significant role in neurodegenerative diseases, whereas the debate is ongoing about its precise role, whether it is protective or harmful. In this review, we focus on the potential mechanism of glial activation and how local and systemic factors influence disease progression. We focus on neuroinflammation in AD, especially in the earliest stages, a vicious cycle of glial priming, release of pro‐inflammatory factors, and neuronal damage. We review the evidence from imaging studies, regarding the temporal relationship between amyloid deposition and neuroinflammation, the influence of systemic inflammation on glial activation, both in acute and chronic stimulation and the relevance of inflammation as a diagnostic and therapeutic target.
Influence of paravertebral muscles training on brain plasticity and postural control in chronic low back pain
Authors: Massé-Alarie Hugo , Beaulieu Louis-David , Preuss Richard , Schneider Cyril 
Published: May 2016

Abstract

Background and purpose
Isometric activation (ISOM) of deep multifidi muscles (MF) can influence postural adjustments and primary motor cortex (M1) function in chronic low back pain (CLBP). In order to better understand how ISOM impacts on CLBP condition, the present study contrasted ISOM aftereffects on Ml function, MF postural activation and pain with another training, the global activation of paravertebral muscles (GLOB, hip extension). The main objective of this study was to compare the effects of ISOM and GLOB (3-week training each) on MF postural activation and Ml function in a CLBP population.

Methods
Twenty-four people with CLBP were randomly allocated to ISOM and GLOB groups for a 3- week daily practice. Pre/post-training after-effects were assessed by the onset of superficial MF (MF-S) activation during ballistic limb movements (bilateral shoulder flexion in standing; unilateral hip extension in prine lying), MF-S corticomotor control tested by transcranial magnetic stimulation of M1, and assessment of pain, kinesiophobia and disability by standardized questionnaires.

Results
Both ISOM and GLOB improved pain and disability. However, only ISOM influenced Ml function (decreased corticospinal excitability and increased intracortical inhibition), fastened MF-S postural activation and decreased kinesiophobia.

Conclusions
Changes of corticospinal excitability and of MF-S postural adjustments suggest that ISOM better influenced brain plasticity. Future studies should further test whether our novel findings relate to an influence of the exercises on the lumbopelvic control of different muscles and on cognitive function. Clinically, individual’s evaluation remains warranted before prescribing one or the other of these two conventional exercises for reducing pain.

Implications
This original study presents how motor control exercises can influence brain plasticity and postural control in chronic low back pain. This knowledge will impact on the decision of clinicians to prescribe specific exercises with a view of improving motor control in this musculoskeletal condition.
Crisis Decision-Making During Hurricane Sandy: An Analysis of Established and Emergent Disaster Response Behaviors in the New York Metro Area
Authors: Chandler Thomas , Abramson David M , Panigrahi Benita , Schlegelmilch Jeff , Frye Noelle 
Published: May 2016

AbstractObjectiveThis collective case study examined how and why specific organizational decision-making processes transpired at 2 large suburban county health departments in lower New York State during their response to Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The study also examined the relationships that the agencies developed with other emerging and established organizations within their respective health systems.MethodsIn investigating these themes, the authors conducted in-depth, one-on-one interviews with 30 senior-level public health staff and first responders; reviewed documentation; and moderated 2 focus group discussions with 17 participants.ResultsAlthough a natural hazard such as a hurricane was not an unexpected event for these health departments, they nevertheless confronted a number of unforeseen challenges during the response phase: prolonged loss of power and fuel, limited situational awareness of the depth and breadth of the storm’s impact among disaster-exposed populations, and coordination problems with a number of organizations that emerged in response to the disaster.ConclusionsPublic health staff had few plans or protocols to guide them and often found themselves improvising and problem-solving with new organizations in the context of an overburdened health care system (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:436–442).
Impact on Primary Care Access Post-Disaster: A Case Study From the Rockaway Peninsula
Authors: Sood Rishi K. , Bocour Angelica , Kumar Supriya , Guclu Hasan , Potter Margaret , Shah Tanya B. 
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACTObjectiveAssess Hurricane Sandy’s impact on primary care providers’ services in the Rockaways.MethodsIn-person surveys were conducted in 2014. A list of 46 health care sites in the area of interest was compiled and each site was called to offer participation in our survey. Respondents included physicians and practice administrators who remained familiar with Sandy-related operational challenges.ResultsOf the 40 sites that opted in, most had been in their current location for more than 10 years (73%) and were a small practice (1 or 2 physicians) before Hurricane Sandy (75%). All but 2 (95%) had to temporarily close or relocate. All sites experienced electrical problems that impacted landline, fax, and Internet. Less than one-quarter (n = 9) reported having a plan for continuity of services before Hurricane Sandy, and 43% reported having a plan poststorm. The majority (80%) did not report coordinating with other primary care stakeholders or receiving support from government agencies during the Sandy response.ConclusionsHurricane Sandy significantly disrupted access to primary care in the Rockaways. Severe impact to site operations and infrastructure forced many practices to relocate. Greater emergency response and recovery planning is needed, including with government agencies, to minimize disruptions of access to primary care during disaster recovery. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:492–495)
EXPANSIONS OF THE ORDERED ADDITIVE GROUP OF REAL NUMBERS BY TWO DISCRETE SUBGROUPS
Authors: HIERONYMI PHILIPP 
Published: May 2016

AbstractThe theory of (ℝ, <, +, ℤ, ℤa) is decidable if a is quadratic. If a is the golden ratio, (ℝ, <, +, ℤ, ℤa) defines multiplication by a. The results are established by using the Ostrowski numeration system based on the continued fraction expansion of a to define the above structures in monadic second order logic of one successor. The converse that (ℝ, <, +, ℤ, ℤa) defines monadic second order logic of one successor, will also be established.
Comparison of participants and non-participants in patient-reported outcome surveys: the case of Assessment of Patterns of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart disease – International Study
Authors: Berghammer Malin C. , Mattsson Eva , Johansson Bengt , Moons Philip , Dellborg Mikael 
Published: May 2016

AbstractBackgroundThe last decade has seen a vast increase in the use of patient-reported outcomes. As patient-reported outcomes are used in order to capture patients’ perspectives of their health and illness, it is a prerequisite for accurate patient-reported outcome evaluations to use representative samples. In order to evaluate representativeness, the present study focussed on the comparison between participants and non-participants in the Swedish branch of the international study APPROACH-IS (Assessment of Patterns of Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart disease – International Study), regarding demographic, clinical, and health status characteristics.MethodsEligible patients for APPROACH-IS were identified and selected from SWEDCON, the Swedish registry for congenital heart disease (CHD). Overall, 912 eligible patients were identified, of whom 471 participated, 398 did not participate, and 43 were either unreachable or declined to participate in APPROACH-IS. The participants and non-participants were compared in terms of statistical significance and effect sizes.ResultsSignificant differences were observed between participants and non-participants for sex, age, primary diagnosis, number of cardiac operations, and fatigue; however, the effect sizes were in general small, except for the difference in primary diagnosis. No differences between the two groups were found in number of catheterisations, implanted device, the distribution of NYHA functional class, or health status and symptoms.ConclusionsThis study shows that participants and non-participants are relatively comparable groups, which confirms the representativeness of the participants. The Swedish data from APPROACH-IS can therefore be reliably generalised to the population of adults with CHD in Sweden.
OPERATOR SYSTEM NUCLEARITY VIA -ENVELOPES
Authors: GUPTA VED PRAKASH , LUTHRA PREETI 
Published: May 2016

We prove that an operator system is (min, ess)-nuclear if its $C^{\ast }$-envelope is nuclear. This allows us to deduce that an operator system associated to a generating set of a countable discrete group by Farenick et al. [‘Operator systems from discrete groups’, Comm. Math. Phys.329(1) (2014), 207–238] is (min, ess)-nuclear if and only if the group is amenable. We also make a detailed comparison between ess and other operator system tensor products and show that an operator system associated to a minimal generating set of a finitely generated discrete group (respectively, a finite graph) is (min, max)-nuclear if and only if the group is of order less than or equal to three (respectively, every component of the graph is complete).
System characteristics and management practices for small ruminant production in “Climate Smart Villages” of Kenya
Authors: Ojango J.M.K. , Audho J. , Oyieng E. , Recha J. , Okeyo A.M. , Kinyangi J. , Muigai A.W.T. 
Published: May 2016

SummaryThe CGIAR research programme on Climate Change Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with several partners is testing a portfolio of interventions to address the threat of changing climatic conditions for smallholder farming communities living beside river flood plains, grouped into “Climate Smart Villages” (CSVs). We present characteristics of farms in CSV in relation to small ruminant (SR) production and the scenario for a breeding and improvement programme. Information was collated using participatory systems research methods from 140 households in seven CSVs in Nyando basin, Kenya. Although most households were headed by men, there were a higher proportion of adult women within the communities, and literacy levels were moderate. A total of 58 percent of the population owned &lt;1 ha of land for growing crops and rearing on average 6.96 ± 3.35 Tropical Livestock Units comprising different species of animals. Women headed households owned more sheep which were mainly crosses of unspecified local breeds, than Goats which were mainly the Small East African breed-type. Mating among the SR was random, with no control of inbreeding as flocks mixed in grazing fields and at water points. Farmers desired large and resilient animals for better market prices; however, growth rates were slow. The SR flocks were dynamic with 31 percent of the animals moving in and out of flocks in a year. A community breeding programme optimally using available resources and incorporating gender integrated innovative technologies could be implemented for the CSV, alongside strong capacity development on animal husbandry, health and marketing of products.
Nucleation and spreading of a heterochromatic domain in fission yeast
Authors: Obersriebnig Michaela J. , Pallesen Emil M. H. , Sneppen Kim , Trusina Ala , Thon Geneviève 
Published: May 2016

AbstractOutstanding questions in the chromatin field bear on how large heterochromatin domains are formed in space and time. Positive feedback, where histone-modifying enzymes are attracted to chromosomal regions displaying the modification they catalyse, is believed to drive the formation of these domains; however, few quantitative studies are available to assess this hypothesis. Here we quantified the de novo establishment of a naturally occurring ∼20-kb heterochromatin domain in fission yeast through single-cell analyses, measuring the kinetics of heterochromatin nucleation in a region targeted by RNAi and its subsequent expansion. We found that nucleation of heterochromatin is stochastic and can take from one to ten cell generations. Further silencing of the full region takes another one to ten generations. Quantitative modelling of the observed kinetics emphasizes the importance of local feedback, where a nucleosome-bound enzyme modifies adjacent nucleosomes, combined with a feedback where recruited enzymes can act at a distance.
Assessment of clinical workload for general and specialty genetic counsellors at an academic medical center: a tool for evaluating genetic counselling practices
Authors: Heald Brandie , Rybicki Lisa , Clements Diane , Marquard Jessica , Mester Jessica , Noss Ryan , Nardini Monica , Polk Jill , Psensky Brittany , Rigelsky Christina , Schreiber Allison , Shealy Amy , Smith Marissa , Eng Charis 
Published: May 2016

AbstractWith genomics influencing clinical decisions, genetics professionals are exponentially called upon as part of multidisciplinary care. Increasing demand for genetic counselling, a limited workforce, necessitates practices improve efficiency. We hypothesised that distinct differences in clinical workload exist between various disciplines of genetic counselling, complicating practice standardisation and patient volume expectations. We thus sought to objectively define and assess workload among various specialties of genetic counselling. Twelve genetic counsellors (GCs), representing 9.3 clinical FTE, in general or specialty (cancer, cardiovascular or prenatal) services at an academic health system developed a data collection tool for assessing time and complexity. Over a 6-week period, the data were recorded for 583 patient visits (136 general and 447 specialty) and analysed comparing general versus specialty GCs. Variables were compared with hierarchical linear models for ordinal or continuous data and hierarchical logistic models for binary data. General GCs completed more pre- and post-visit activities (P=0.011) and spent more time (P=0.009) per case. General GCs reported greater case discussion with other providers (P<0.001), literature review (P=0.026), exploring testing options (P=0.041), electronic medical record review (P=0.040), insurance preauthorization (P=0.05) and fielding patient inquiries (P=0.003). Lesser redundancy in referral indication was observed by general GCs. GCs in general practice carry a higher pre- and post-visit workload compared with GCs in specialty practices. General GCs may require lower patient volumes than specialty GCs to allow time for additional pre- and post-visit activities. Non-clinical activities should be transferred to support staff.
Naturally occurring hybrids derived from γ-amino acids and sugars with potential tail to tail ether-bonds
Authors: Feng Zi-ming , Zhan Zhi-lai , Yang Ya-nan , Jiang Jian-shuang , Zhang Pei-cheng 
Published: May 2016

AbstractThe basic substances of life include various amino acids and sugars. To search such molecules is the precondition to understand the essential nature. Here we reported four unprecedented hybrids of γ-amino acids and sugars from the roots of Ranunculus ternatus, which possess potential tail to tail ether-connected (6,6-ether-connected) modes in the sugar moiety. The structures of these hybrids were elucidated by extensive analyses of spectra and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) method.
Acute blockade of IL-25 in a colitis associated colon cancer model leads to increased tumor burden
Authors: Thelen Tennille D. , Green Ryan M. , Ziegler Steven F. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractChronic inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract results in an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer. Epithelial cytokines, including interleukin-25 (IL-25), are produced in the colon and are critical for protection from parasites, but can also be pathogenic in the context of inflammatory bowel diseases and allergy. Whether IL-25 is involved in the progression from inflammation to cancer is still largely unexplored. Using a well-established murine model for colitis-induced colon cancer; we aimed to determine the role of IL-25 in this process. We found that acute IL-25 blockade resulted in greater tumor burdens compared to isotype control treated mice. Histologically, α-IL-25 treated mice had increased colitis scores compared to mice receiving isotype control antibody, as well as decreased eosinophilia. This is the first study to explore the therapeutic potential of using an IL-25 blocking antibody during a chronic inflammatory setting. Taken together these data suggest that IL-25 plays an inhibitory role in the growth and development of colonic tumors.
Surface stress of graphene layers supported on soft substrate
Authors: Du Feng , Huang Jianyong , Duan Huiling , Xiong Chunyang , Wang Jianxiang 
Published: May 2016

AbstractWe obtain the surface stress of a single layer and multilayers of graphene supported on silicone substrates by measuring the deformation of the graphene-covered substrates induced by the surface tension of liquid droplets together with the Neumann’s triangle concept. We find that the surface stress of the graphene-covered substrate is significant larger than that of the bare substrate and it increases with increasing graphene layers and finally reaches a constant value of about 120 mN/m on three and more layers of graphene. This work demonstrates that the apparent surface stress of graphene-substrate systems can be tuned by the substrate and the graphene layers. The surface stress and the tuning effect of the substrate on it may have applications in design and characterization of graphene-based ultra-sensitive sensors and other devices. Moreover, the method may also be used to measure the surface stress of other ultrathin films supported on soft substrates.