bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reactive compatibilization and performance evaluation of miscanthus biofiber reinforced poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) biocomposites
Authors: Muthuraj Rajendran , Misra Manjusri , Mohanty Amar Kumar 
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACTDicumyl peroxide (DCP) initiated reactive compatibilization of poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV)/miscanthus fibers (70/30 wt %) based biocomposite was prepared in a twin screw extruder followed by injection molding. In the presence of DCP, both the flexural and the tensile strength of the PHBV/miscanthus composites were appreciably higher compared with PHBV/miscanthus composite without DCP as well as neat PHBV. The maximum tensile strength (29 MPa) and flexural strength (51 MPa) were observed in the PHBV/miscanthus composite with 0.7 phr DCP. The enhanced flexural and tensile strength of the PHBV/miscanthus/DCP composites are attributed to the improved interfacial adhesion by free radical initiator. Unlike flexural and tensile strength, the modulus of the PHBV/miscanthus/DCP composites was found to slightly lower than the PHBV/miscanthus composite. The modulus difference in the PHBV/miscanthus composite with and without DCP has good agreement with the observed crystallinity. However, the flexural and tensile modulus of all the prepared biocomposites was at least two fold higher than the neat PHBV. The storage modulus value of the PHBV/miscanthus and PHBV/miscanthus/DCP biocomposites follows similar trend like tensile and flexural modulus. The melting temperature and crystallization temperature of PHBV/DCP and PHBV/miscanthus/DCP samples were considerably lower compared with the neat PHBV and PHBV/miscanthus composites. The surface morphology revealed that the PHBV/miscanthus/DCP composites have good interface with less fiber pull‐outs compared with the corresponding counterpart without DCP. This suggests that the compatibility between the matrix and the fibers is enhanced after the addition of peroxide initiator. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44860.
Physicochemical changes in rice straw after composting and its effect on rice‐straw‐based composites
Authors: Qu Ping , Huang Hongying , Zhao Yongfu , Wu Guofeng 
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACTA composting method was applied to improve the processability of rice straw (RS) and its interfacial interaction with a biodegradable resin, hydrolyzed‐soy‐protein‐modified urea formaldehyde adhesives. The composted RS was characterized by fiber testing, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. We found that the particle size of RS was reduced from 0.6–2.0 to 0.2–0.6 mm. The cellulose content decreased, and the lignin content increased; unstable bonds were decomposed after composting. All of the results were beneficial for improving the plasticity of RS. Composted RS with inoculant exhibited a higher peak degradation temperature (352 °C) than the untreated RS (347 °C). The porous structure and tissue in RS were destroyed by the microorganism. The best bonding results were obtained by the composted RS with inoculant. Compared with untreated composites, the modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, and tensile strength of the composites were improved by 14.94, 25.36, and 27.21%, respectively. In addition, a mechanism of the structural changes of RS during composting was also proposed. The full biodegradable composites have potential applications in agriculture toward the achievement of sustainable development. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44878.
Hopscotch technique: A novel method for percutaneous closure of paravalvular leaks
Authors: Ruiz Carlos E. , Chi‐Hion Li , Vladimir Jelnin , Gila Perk , Dillon Weiss , Itzhak Kronzon , Chad Kliger 
Published: February 2017

ObjectivesTo describe the feasibility and safety of the Hopscotch Technique, a novel method to close paravalvular leaks.BackgroundSuccessful closure of paravalvular leaks requires the complete seal of irregular defects, frequently interrupted by remaining sutures or tissue that converts a large defect into a complex series of contiguous smaller defects. Successful treatment with devices placed in a single space is impossible with constrained appearance and significant residual leak; therefore, new techniques to deploy smaller devices in the correct location are needed.MethodsWe retrospective analyzed all the patients with mitral PVLs undergoing percutaneous closure with the Hopscotch technique from November 2011 to January 2016.ResultsSixteen procedures were performed in 15 patients (median age 66‐year‐old, 67% male, STS 3.9%), most of them with biological prostheses (73%). Mean PVL size was 12.5 mm located in the lateral position. Percutaneous transapical access was the final approach in nine procedures and success of the procedure was achieved in 12. Usually, the technique was performed by 1 Hopscotch crossing/jump; however, complex procedures requiring 2 or 3 crossings were utilized in 4 patients, even possible between aortic and mitral leaks along the aortic‐mitral continuity. Residual mitral paravalvular regurgitation of ≤mild was achieved in 93% of procedures.ConclusionsThe Hopscotch technique is feasible and safety for patients with mitral paravalvular leak when boundaries prevent full device expansion. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Comparative Study on the Separation of Different‐Shape Particles Using a Mini‐Hydrocyclone
Authors: Niazi Saber , Habibian Mahmoud , Rahimi Masoud 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe separation efficiency from water of different‐shape particles was studied experimentally using a mini‐hydrocyclone. Spherical and flaky (plate‐like) aluminum particles with the same particle size distributions were employed. Also, the effects of the feed flow rate and the temperature on the separation performance were studied. The results were investigated in terms of slurry recovery, total efficiency, and partition curves. The separation efficiency of the spherical particles increased with increasing particle size, temperature, and feed flow rate, as expected. The fishhook effect, as a noticeable phenomenon, was observed for the spherical particles. In case of the flaky particles, the separation showed an unusual behavior: The separation efficiency decreased with increasing particle size in the largest particle fraction, which has so far not been reported and addressed in this way.
FTIR chemometrical approach for clonal assessment: Selection of Olea europaea L. optimal phenotypes from cv. Cobrançosa
Authors: Machado Manuela , Machado Nelson , Gouvinhas Irene , Domínguez‐Perles Raúl , Barros Ana I.R.N.A. 
Published: February 2017

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has been applied in tandem with multivariate statistical approaches, with the prospect of developing a methodology for the prediction of interesting traits in distinct clones of “Olea europaea L.” For this purpose, the infrared spectra of either the drupes or the corresponding olive oils of 6 distinct clones of the Cobrançosa cultivar, in 2 ripening stages (semi‐ripe and ripe), have been registered resorting to an attenuated total reflection accessory. These clones were previously evaluated with respect to antioxidant activity and olive oil yield, while multivariate analyses, namely, partial least squares regression and discriminant analysis have been applied to the spectral data collected to obtain a prediction model for the assessment of these traits in distinct clones through the infrared spectra.This methodology leads to minimal erroneous classification rates in the validation procedure of 3.9% and 6.3% for olives and olive oils, respectively, using the first derivative of the spectra. Thus, the suitability of this methodology for the assessment of different clones has been shown with visible benefits for a time consuming and costly process such as clonal selection. Furthermore, this procedure might be extended for other cultivars or different species once proper calibration models are attained for each matrix.
State estimation and non‐linear model based control of a continuous stirred tank reactor using unscented Kalman filter
Authors: Panda Atanu , Jagadeesan Prakash 
Published: February 2017

AbstractIn this paper a non‐linear model based control (NMBC) scheme for the continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) process is proposed. The proposed control law is a function of the model state(s) and the measured output variable(s). Performance comparison of the proposed NMBC scheme with that of non‐linear model predictive control scheme (NMPC) is reported. From the extensive simulation studies on the CSTR process, it can be inferred that servo and regulatory performances of the proposed NMBC scheme is found to closely match the NMPC scheme, with the proposed control scheme being computationally less intensive. In addition, a non‐linear model based control scheme using an unscented Kalman filter (UKF‐NMBC) and an inferential control scheme (INF‐UKF‐NMBC) for the CSTR process affected by random disturbances and random errors in measurements are formulated. Performance comparisons of the UKF‐NMBC with UKF based NMPC and INF‐AUKF‐NMBC with INF‐AUKF‐NMPC, highlighting offset free servo performance, rejection of unmeasured disturbance, and robustness to model‐plant mismatch are reported.
Electronic Properties of Optically Switchable Photochromic Diarylethene Molecules at the Interface with Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Wang Qiankun , Frisch Johannes , Herder Martin , Hecht Stefan , Koch Norbert 
Published: February 2017

AbstractLight‐switching‐induced changes in the electronic properties of photochromic diarylethene, i.e., 1,2‐bis(2‐methyl‐5‐p‐tolylthiophen‐3‐yl)cyclopent‐1‐ene (DAE1), thin films at interfaces to a gold electrode and two polymer semiconductors are investigated by direct and inverse photoelectron spectroscopy. The photoisomerization is achieved by in situ irradiation of ultraviolet and visible light. Efficient and reversible switching between the open and closed isomers of DAE1 is evidenced at all interfaces, with profound impact on the energy‐level alignment. The frontier occupied level of DAE1 changes by 0.8 eV with respect to the Au Fermi level upon switching. Corresponding sizable changes in the electron and transport level offsets between the two polymers and DAE1 in its open and closed form are determined. This gives rise to fundamentally different functionality of these interfaces in terms of charge transport. Our study proves the viability of light‐controlled energy‐level manipulation at various interfaces in photoswitchable opto‐electronic devices.
CSR Engagement and Earnings Quality in Banks. The Moderating Role of Institutional Factors
Authors: García‐Sánchez Isabel‐María , García‐Meca Emma 
Published: February 2017

AbstractOur main objective is to study whether banks that follow CSR practices enhance earnings quality. We also analyse whether differences in earnings quality that are driven by CSR engagement are affected in a complementary or substitutive manner by levels of investor protection and bank regulation for financial institutions across countries. To test our predictions, we use a sample of 877 observations, corresponding to 159 banks from 9 countries, for the period 2004–2010. Our results indicate that a bank's commitment to CSR practices enhances earnings persistence as well as cash flow predictability. The empirical evidence also shows that the effect of CSR on the quality of bank earnings is particularly high in countries with higher levels of investor protection and bank regulation, providing evidence that these institutional factors are complementary mechanisms for CSR activities in banks, and suggesting that more socially responsible banks have higher earnings quality in a stricter regulatory environment. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Predictive Guide for Collective CO2 Adsorption Properties of Mg−Al Mixed Oxides
Authors: Kwon Hyuk Jae , Kwon Soonchul , Seo Jeong Gil , Jung In Sun , Son You‐Hwan , Lee Chan Hyun , Lee Ki Bong , Lee Hyun Chul 
Published: February 2017

AbstractAlthough solid adsorption processes offer attractive benefits, such as reduced energy demands and penalties compared with liquid absorption processes, there are still pressing needs for solid adsorbents with high adsorption capacities, thermal efficiencies, and energy‐intensive regeneration in gas‐treatment processes. The CO2 adsorption capacities of layered double oxides (LDOs), which are attractive solid adsorbents, have an asymmetric volcano‐type correlation with their relative crystallinities. Furthermore, new collective adsorption properties (adsorption capacity, adsorptive energy and charge‐transfer amount based on the adsorbent weight) are proposed based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations and measured surface areas. The correlation of these collective properties with their crystallinities is in good agreement with the experimentally measured CO2 adsorptive capacity trend, providing a predictive guide for the development of solid adsorbents for gas‐adsorption processes.
Testing the niche variation hypothesis in a community of passerine birds
Authors: Maldonado Karin , Bozinovic Francisco , Newsome Seth D. , Sabat Pablo 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe niche variation hypothesis (NVH) predicts that populations with broader niches should exhibit greater between‐individual diet variation or individual specialization (IS) relative to populations with narrower niches. Most studies that quantify population niche widths and associated levels of IS typically focus on a single or few species, but studies examining NVH in a phylogenetically informed comparative analysis among species are lacking. Here we use nitrogen isotope (δ15N) analysis to measure population niche widths and IS in a single bird community composed of 12 passerine species representing different foraging guilds. We found support for the NVH at the interspecific level; species with broader population niche widths were comprised of more individual specialists. Moreover, our results suggest that this relationship is influenced by foraging guild; specifically, omnivores have higher degrees of IS for a given population niche width than insectivores. Finally, the levels of IS among passerine species, in contrast to population niche width, were associated with their relatedness, suggesting that the potential phylogenetic effect on the prevalence of IS is higher than previously recognized.
Astrocyte lipid metabolism is critical for synapse development and function in vivo
Authors: van Deijk Anne‐Lieke F. , Camargo Nutabi , Timmerman Jaap , Heistek Tim , Brouwers Jos F. , Mogavero Floriana , Mansvelder Huibert D. , Smit August B. , Verheijen Mark H.G. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThe brain is considered to be autonomous in lipid synthesis with astrocytes producing lipids far more efficiently than neurons. Accordingly, it is generally assumed that astrocyte‐derived lipids are taken up by neurons to support synapse formation and function. Initial confirmation of this assumption has been obtained in cell cultures, but whether astrocyte‐derived lipids support synapses in vivo is not known. Here, we address this issue and determined the role of astrocyte lipid metabolism in hippocampal synapse formation and function in vivo. Hippocampal protein expression for the sterol regulatory element‐binding protein (SREBP) and its target gene fatty acid synthase (Fasn) was found in astrocytes but not in neurons. Diminishing SREBP activity in astrocytes using mice in which the SREBP cleavage‐activating protein (SCAP) was deleted from GFAP‐expressing cells resulted in decreased cholesterol and phospholipid secretion by astrocytes. Interestingly, SCAP mutant mice showed more immature synapses, lower presynaptic protein SNAP‐25 levels as well as reduced numbers of synaptic vesicles, indicating impaired development of the presynaptic terminal. Accordingly, hippocampal short‐term and long‐term synaptic plasticity were defective in mutant mice. These findings establish a critical role for astrocyte lipid metabolism in presynaptic terminal development and function in vivo. GLIA 2017;65:670–682
The effects on carer well‐being of carer involvement in cognition‐based interventions for people with dementia: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Leung Phuong , Orgeta Vasiliki , Orrell Martin 
Published: February 2017

ObjectivesTo investigate the effects on carer well‐being of carer involvement in cognition‐based interventions (CBIs) for people with dementia.MethodsA review and meta‐analysis were performed. We searched electronic databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Two reviewers worked independently to select trials, extract data and assess the risk of bias.ResultsA total of 4737 studies was identified. Eight RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Only seven studies with 803 dyads of people with dementia and carers were included in the meta‐analysis. Evidence indicated that carer involvement in CBIs for people with dementia had a beneficial effect on carers' quality of life with effect size Hedges' g = 0.22; 95% confidence interval of 0.02 to 0.42, z = 2.19 and p = 0.03. Carers' depression levels were reduced in the intervention group with effect size Hedges' g = 0.17; 95% confidence interval of 0.02 to 0.32, z = 2.19 and p = 0.03. No significant differences were observed in levels of anxiety symptoms, caregiving relationship and carer burden in the intervention group compared to those in the control group.ConclusionBecause CBIs are designed to deliver benefit for people with dementia, the collateral benefits for carers have potential implications for the importance of CBIs in service delivery and may contribute to cost effectiveness. However, there remains a lack of quality of research in this area. Particularly, in some outcomes, there was a lack of consistency of results, so the findings should be interpreted with caution. Future studies of the impact of CBIs on carers with larger samples and high‐quality RCTs are warranted. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of lifelong cognitive lifestyle on executive function in older people with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hindle John V. , Martin‐Forbes Pamela A. , Martyr Anthony , Bastable Alexandra J.M. , Pye Kirstie L. , Mueller Gathercole Virginia C. , Thomas Enlli M. , Clare Linda 
Published: February 2017

ObjectiveActive lifelong cognitive lifestyles increase cognitive reserve and have beneficial effects on global cognition, cognitive decline and dementia risk in Parkinson's disease (PD). Executive function is particularly impaired even in early PD, and this impacts on quality of life. The effects of lifelong cognitive lifestyle on executive function in PD have not been studied previously. This study examined the association between lifelong cognitive lifestyle, as a proxy measure of cognitive reserve, and executive function in people with PD.MethodsSixty‐nine people diagnosed with early PD without dementia were recruited as part of the Bilingualism as a protective factor in Age‐related Neurodegenerative Conditions study. Participants completed a battery of tests of executive function. The Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire was completed as a comprehensive assessment of lifelong cognitive lifestyle. Non‐parametric correlations compared clinical measures with executive function scores. Cross‐sectional analyses of covariance were performed comparing the performance of low and high cognitive reserve groups on executive function tests.ResultsCorrelational analyses showed that better executive function scores were associated with younger age, higher levodopa dose and higher Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire scores. Higher cognitive reserve was associated with better motor function, but high and low cognitive reserve groups did not differ in executive function.ConclusionsCognitive reserve, although associated with global cognition, does not appear to be associated with executive function. This differential effect may reflect the specific cognitive profile of PD. The long‐term effects of cognitive reserve on executive function in PD require further exploration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lateral arm free tissue transfer for parotid reconstruction: A pictorial essay
Authors: Kang Stephen Y. , Old Matthew O. , Teknos Theodoros N. 
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe goals of parotid reconstruction are to provide accurate volume reconstruction of the defect while minimizing ptosis, optimize color match to surrounding facial skin, maintain anatomic position of the auricle, and to perform facial nerve rehabilitation in cases in which the facial nerve is removed.Methods and ResultsFor many complex parotid defects, the lateral arm free tissue transfer achieves these reconstructive goals and is the ideal donor site for microvascular reconstruction. In this pictorial essay, we describe the anatomy, harvest, inset, and reconstructive advantages of the lateral arm free tissue transfer in complex parotid reconstruction.ConclusionsThe lateral arm donor site provides well‐compartmentalized adipose tissue that resists ptosis, favorable color match to facial skin, and the posterior cutaneous nerve to the forearm may be used as a nerve graft for facial nerve rehabilitation. These reconstructive advantages make the lateral arm donor site our primary reconstructive option for complex parotid defects. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 1015–1019, 2017
Effect of the histone deacetylase inhibitor resminostat on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Enzenhofer Elisabeth , Kadletz Lorenz , Stanisz Isabella , Kotowski Ulana , Seemann Rudolf , Schmid Rainer , Thurnher Dietmar , Heiduschka Gregor 
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACTBackgroundCarcinogenesis is determined by various epigenetic events, such as histone deacetylation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the new histone deacetylase inhibitor resminostat on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines.MethodsThe cytotoxicity of resminostat and cisplatin on HNSCC cell lines SCC25, CAL27, and FaDu was determined using CCK‐8 cell proliferation assay and combination index analysis. Cells were irradiated with 2 to 8 Gray. Apoptosis was measured using flow cytometry and expression of Mcl‐1, p‐AKT, and survivin was investigated.ResultsTreatment with resminostat showed a decrease of cell proliferation of HNSCC cell lines. In addition, a synergistic effect with cisplatin as well as with radiation treatment could be observed. Induction of cell death and dose‐dependent downregulation of survivin was evident in all cell lines.ConclusionResminostat is a promising treatment of HNSCC because of its antiproliferative, chemosensitizing, and radiosensitizing effects. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 900–907, 2017
Reduction of cavitation in refrigerant fluid flow through micro passages in the presence of external transverse magnetic fields
Authors: Aminfar H. , Mohammadpourfard M. , Madayen S. A. 
Published: February 2017

AbstractThis paper presents a numerical study of cryogenic fluid flow cavitation in a microchannel and annulus, with forward‐facing step. Two‐phase mixture model is used to simulate the effects of magnetic fields produced by an electrical wire and magnetic doublet on the cavitation region. The results show that considerable reduction of vapor generation due to pressure drop is possible in the presence of an external magnetic fields. This phenomenon occurs due to effect of magnetic field on the pressure distribution in the contraction region and it is observed in both types of studied magnetic fields.