bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ternary Organic Solar Cells with Reduced Graphene Oxide–Sb2S3 Hybrid Nanosheets as the Cascade Material
Authors: Balis Nikolaos , Konios Dimitrios , Stratakis Emmanuel , Kymakis Emmanuel 
Published: May 2015

AbstractWe demonstrate that the efficiency of a poly[N‐9′‐heptadecanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4′,7′‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole)](PCDTBT):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric‐acid‐methyl‐ester (PC71BM) bulk heterojunction solar cell can be improved from 5.53 % to 6.81 % by incorporating reduced graphene oxide–antimony sulfide (rGO–Sb2S3) hybrid nanosheets as the third component. By using this hybrid as the cascade material, we combine the ultra‐conductive multi charge transfer paths provided by graphene with the favorable arrangement of the material energy bands due to the presence of Sb2S3 nanocrystals. The higher lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level of rGO–Sb2S3 relative to PC71BM results in an increase of the open circuit voltage upon increasing the rGO–Sb2S3 concentration, while the photocurrent and fill factor are enhanced due to the presence of more exciton dissociation interfaces and more efficient charge transport.
Probability state modeling theory
Authors: Bagwell C. Bruce , Hunsberger Benjamin C. , Herbert Donald J. , Munson Mark E. , Hill Beth L. , Bray Chris M. , Preffer Frederic I. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAs the technology of cytometry matures, there is mounting pressure to address two major issues with data analyses. The first issue is to develop new analysis methods for high‐dimensional data that can directly reveal and quantify important characteristics associated with complex cellular biology. The other issue is to replace subjective and inaccurate gating with automated methods that objectively define subpopulations and account for population overlap due to measurement uncertainty. Probability state modeling (PSM) is a technique that addresses both of these issues. The theory and important algorithms associated with PSM are presented along with simple examples and general strategies for autonomous analyses. PSM is leveraged to better understand B‐cell ontogeny in bone marrow in a companion Cytometry Part B manuscript. Three short relevant videos are available in the online supporting information for both of these papers. PSM avoids the dimensionality barrier normally associated with high‐dimensionality modeling by using broadened quantile functions instead of frequency functions to represent the modulation of cellular epitopes as cells differentiate. Since modeling programs ultimately minimize or maximize one or more objective functions, they are particularly amenable to automation and, therefore, represent a viable alternative to subjective and inaccurate gating approaches. © 2015 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
An approach to consider behavioral plasticity as a source of uncertainty when forecasting species' response to climate change
Authors: Muñoz Antonio‐Román , Márquez Ana Luz , Real Raimundo 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe rapid ecological shifts that are occurring due to climate change present major challenges for managers and policymakers and, therefore, are one of the main concerns for environmental modelers and evolutionary biologists. Species distribution models (SDM) are appropriate tools for assessing the relationship between species distribution and environmental conditions, so being customarily used to forecast the biogeographical response of species to climate change. A serious limitation of species distribution models when forecasting the effects of climate change is that they normally assume that species behavior and climatic tolerances will remain constant through time. In this study, we propose a new methodology, based on fuzzy logic, useful for incorporating the potential capacity of species to adapt to new conditions into species distribution models. Our results demonstrate that it is possible to include different behavioral responses of species when predicting the effects of climate change on species distribution. Favorability models offered in this study show two extremes: one considering that the species will not modify its present behavior, and another assuming that the species will take full advantage of the possibilities offered by an increase in environmental favorability. This methodology may mean a more realistic approach to the assessment of the consequences of global change on species' distribution and conservation. Overlooking the potential of species' phenotypical plasticity may under‐ or overestimate the predicted response of species to changes in environmental drivers and its effects on species distribution. Using this approach, we could reinforce the science behind conservation planning in the current situation of rapid climate change.
Black liquor and the hangover effect: fish assemblage recovery dynamics following a pulse disturbance
Authors: Piller Kyle R. , Geheber Aaron D. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAnthropogenic perturbations impact aquatic systems causing wide‐ranging responses, from assemblage restructuring to assemblage recovery. Previous studies indicate the duration and intensity of disturbances play a role in the dynamics of assemblage recovery. In August 2011, the Pearl River, United States, was subjected to a weak black liquor spill from a paper mill which resulted in substantial loss of fish in a large stretch of the main channel. We quantified resilience and recovery of fish assemblage structure in the impacted area following the event. We compared downstream (impacted) assemblages to upstream (unimpacted) assemblages to determine initial impacts on structure. Additionally, we incorporated historic fish collections (1988–2011) to examine impacts on assemblage structure across broad temporal scales. Based on NMDS, upstream and downstream sites generally showed similar assemblage structure across sample periods with the exception of the 2 months postdischarge, where upstream and downstream sites visually differed. Multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) indicated significant seasonal variation among samples, but found no significant interaction between impacted and unimpacted assemblages following the discharge event. However, multivariate dispersion (MVDISP) showed greater variance among assemblage structure following the discharge event. These results suggest that 2 months following the disturbance represent a time period of stochasticity in regard to assemblage structure dynamics, and this was followed by rapid recovery. We term this dynamic the “hangover effect” as it represents the time frame from the cessation of the perturbation to the assemblage's return to predisturbance conditions. The availability and proximity of tributaries and upstream refugia, which were not affected by the disturbance, as well as the rapid recovery of abiotic parameters likely played a substantial role in assemblage recovery. This study not only demonstrates rapid recovery in an aquatic system, but further demonstrates the value of continuous, long‐term, data collections which enhance our understanding of assemblage dynamics.
Effects of bisphenol A on key enzymes in cellular respiration of soybean seedling roots
Authors: Nie Lijun , Wang Lihong , Wang Qingqing , Wang Shengman , Zhou Qing , Huang Xiaohua 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

The environmental endocrine disrupter bisphenol A (BPA) is ubiquitous in the environment, with potential toxic effects on plants. Previous studies have found a significant effect of BPA on levels of mineral nutrients in plant roots, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. To determine how BPA influences root mineral nutrients, the effects of BPA (1.5 mg L–1, 3.0 mg L–1, 6.0 mg L–1, 12.0 mg L–1, 24.0 mg L–1, 48.0 mg L–1, and 96.0 mg L–1) on activities of critical respiratory enzymes (hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, and cytochrome c oxidase) were investigated in soybean seedling roots. After BPA exposure for 7 d, the low concentrations of BPA increased the activities of critical respiratory enzymes in roots, whereas opposite effects were observed in roots exposed to high concentrations of BPA, and the inhibitory effect was greater for higher BPA concentrations. In addition, evident morphological anomalies and decreases in root lengths and volumes were induced by high concentrations of BPA. Following withdrawal of BPA exposure after 7 d, the activities of respiratory enzymes and visible signs of toxicity recovered, and the extent of recovery depended on the type of enzyme and the BPA concentration. Furthermore, correlation analysis showed that the disturbance by BPA to activities of respiratory enzymes, which led to interference in the energy metabolism in roots, might be an effect mechanism of BPA on mineral element accumulation in plant roots. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015;34:2363–2369. © 2015 SETAC
Energy considerations in groundwater‐ridging mechanism of streamflow generation
Authors: Waswa George W. , Lorentz Simon A. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractGroundwater ridging is the rapid rise of a shallow water table during a rainfall event, in an environment where, in the pre‐event period, the capillary fringe extends to the ground surface. Groundwater ridging is widely cited to account for the observed significant appearance of pre‐event water in a stream stormflow hydrograph. Various hypotheses have been advanced to explain the groundwater‐ridging mechanism; and most recently, from a field study site in South Africa, an energy hypothesis was proposed, which explains that groundwater‐ridging water‐table rise is a result of rapid introduction and transmission of additional pressure head into the capillary fringe from an intense rainfall at the ground surface. However, there is a need for further analysis and evidence from other field study sites to confirm and support this newly proposed energy hypothesis. The objectives of this paper are, therefore, as follows: to review previous observations on groundwater ridging, from other study sites, in order to deduce evidence of the newly proposed energy hypothesis; to present and evaluate a one‐dimensional diffusion mathematical model that can simulate groundwater‐ridging water‐table rise, based on the newly proposed energy hypothesis; and to evaluate the importance of a capillary fringe in streamflow generation. Analysis of previous observations from other study sites generally indicated that the rate of groundwater‐ridging water‐table rise is directly related to the rainfall intensity, hence confirming and agreeing with the newly proposed energy hypothesis. Additionally, theoretical results by the mathematical model agreed fairly well with the field results observed under natural rainfall, confirming that the rapidly rainfall‐induced energy is diffusively transmitted downwards through pore water, elevating the pressure head at every depth. The results in this study also support the concept of a three‐end‐member stream stormflow hydrograph and contribute to the explanation of how catchments can store water for long periods but then release it rapidly during storm events. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The challenges of water governance in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: van Leeuwen Cornelis J , Dan Nguyen P , Dieperink Carel 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Population growth, urbanization, pollution, and climate change pose urgent water challenges in cities. In this study, the sustainability of integrated water resources management in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) was evaluated using the City Blueprint approach. The City Blueprint is a set of 24 dedicated indicators divided over 8 categories (i.e., water security, water quality, drinking water, sanitation, infrastructure, climate robustness, biodiversity and attractiveness, and governance including public participation). The analysis showed that the rapid increase of water use for urban, industrial, and agricultural activities in HCMC has resulted in depletion of groundwater and severe pollution of both groundwater and surface water. Surface water quality, groundwater quality, biodiversity, and the sanitation of domestic and industrial wastewater are matters that need serious improvement. Current and future water supply in HCMC is at risk. HCMC can cope with it, but the 7 governance gaps as described by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) are major obstacles for HCMC. Rainwater harvesting, pollution reduction, as well as wastewater reuse are among the practical options. Wastewater reuse could lower the water stress index to 10%. The window to do this is narrow and rapidly closing as a result of the unprecedented urbanization and economic growth of this region. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:345–352. © 2015 SETAC
Key Points
We reviewed IWRM in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) with the City Blueprint approach. This framework is a good start of the transition process of IWRM in cities. Urbanization, pollution, and climate change pose urgent challenges in HCMC. The study illustrates and confirms recent conclusions on water by the World Economic Forum.
Modeling technique of the conducted emission of integrated circuit under different temperatures
Authors: Berbel Nestor , Fernández‐García Raúl , Gil Ignacio 
Published: May 2015

SummaryIn this paper the temperature impact on conducted emissions of ICs up to 3 GHz has been analyzed. The electromagnetic conducted emissions of a commercial IC clock generator have been characterized and modeled from 293 K to 358 K. A temperature parametrized lumped‐electrical equivalent model including the PCB and IC behavior has been developed and validated by means of Feature Selective Validation. The results show that the passive distribution network is slightly affected by the temperature, whereas the IC conducted emission presents a clear temperature variation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interleukin‐6 and interleukin‐6 receptor expression, localization, and involvement in pain‐sensing neuron activation in a mouse intervertebral disc injury model
Authors: Sainoh Takeshi , Orita Sumihisa , Miyagi Masayuki , Sakuma Yoshihiro , Yamauchi Kazuyo , Suzuki Miyako , Kubota Go , Oikawa Yasuhiro , Inage Kazuhide , Sato Jun , Fujimoto Kazuki , Shiga Yasuhiro , Inoue Gen , Aoki Yasuchika , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Ohtori Seiji 
Published: May 2015

ABSTRACTThe pathological mechanism of intractable low back pain is unclear. However, intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is a primary cause of low back pain, and pain‐related mediators, such as interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), have been correlated with discogenic pain. The objective of this study is to elucidate the mechanism of local IL‐6 and IL‐6 receptor (IL‐6R) expression after IVD injury as well as determine the involvement of IL‐6/IL‐6 signaling in discogenic pain. To do this, quantitative and immunohistological analyses in a mouse model of IVD injury were performed. Firstly, we measured the local expression levels of IL‐6 and IL‐6R in IVDs by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Secondly, we immunohistochemically confirmed their localization in injured IVDs. Lastly, we evaluated the effects of intradiscal injection of an IL‐6 inhibitor by evaluating pain‐related protein, calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), expression in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons that innervate IVDs. Injured IVDs showed increased production of IL‐6 and IL‐6R. IL‐6 and IL‐6R expression in the injured IVD were predominantly localized in the annulus fibrosus and endplate, and intradiscal injection of the IL‐6 inhibitor suppressed CGRP expression in the DRG neurons. These results show that IL‐6 and IL‐6R expression levels are responsive to IVD injury and that inhibition of IL‐6/IL‐6R signaling may be a promising analgesic treatment for degenerative disc diseases. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:1508–1514, 2015.
A new theory on the pathogenesis of acquired cholesteatoma: Mucosal traction
Authors: Jackler Robert K. , Santa Maria Peter L. , Varsak Yasin K. , Nguyen Anh , Blevins Nikolas H. 
Published: May 2015

Objectives/HypothesisAlthough the migration of its squamous outer surface of the tympanic membrane has been well characterized, there is a paucity of data available concerning the migratory behavior of its medial mucosal surface. Existing theories of primary acquired cholesteatoma pathogenesis do not adequately explain the observed characteristics of the disease. We propose a new hypothesis, based upon a conjecture that mucosal membrane interactions are the driving force in cholesteatoma.Study DesignA retrospective chart review and a prospective observational cohort study in rats.MethodsAfter developing the new theory, it was tested through both clinical and experimental observations. To evaluate whether impairment of middle ear mucociliary migration would influence cholesteatoma formation, a retrospective chart review evaluating cholesteatoma occurrence in a sizable population of patients with either primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) or cystic fibrosis (CF) was performed. To study mucosal migration on the medial aspect of the tympanic membrane, ink tattoos were monitored over time in a rat model.ResultsNo cholesteatomas were identified in either PCD patients (470) or in CF patients (1,910). In the rat model, mucosa of the posterior pars tensa migrated toward the posterior superior quadrant, whereas the mucosa of the anterior pars tensa migrated radially toward the annulus.ConclusionMucosal coupling with traction generated by interaction of migrating opposing surfaces provides the first comprehensive theory that explains the observed characteristics of primary acquired cholesteatoma. The somewhat counterintuitive hypothesis that cholesteatoma is fundamentally a mucosal disease has numerous therapeutic implications.Level of Evidence4. Laryngoscope, 125:S1–S14, 2015
Subjective visual vertical testing in children and adolescents
Authors: Brodsky Jacob R. , Cusick Brandon A. , Kenna Margaret A. , Zhou Guangwei 
Published: May 2015

Objectives/HypothesisSubjective visual vertical (SVV) is a vestibular test commonly used in adults that has not been well studied in children. In this test, the patient aligns a projected line with the perceived true vertical. Deviation of >2° is usually associated with utricular dysfunction and may also be seen with central vestibular lesions. The goal of this study was to determine the efficacy of SVV in children.Study DesignProspective, controlled study.MethodsThirty‐three children aged 7 to 18 years with (n = 21) and without (n = 12) dizziness underwent static SVV. History, exam, rotary chair, and caloric testing were used to categorize subjects with dizziness into groups with peripheral vestibular loss (PVL), benign paroxysmal positioning vertigo (BPPV), central vertigo (CV), and nonvestibular dizziness (NVD).ResultsMean SVV deviation was significantly higher in the peripheral vestibular loss group (n = 4; 2.1 ± 1.5) compared to BPPV (n = 5; 0.5 ± 0.3), CV (n = 7; 0.4 ± 0.3), NVD (n = 5; 0.6 ± 0.4), and control (n = 12; 0.7 ± 0.5) groups by one‐way analysis of variance (P = .002). SVV deviation >2° demonstrated a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 75%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 97% for PVL.ConclusionsSVV is a simple, noninvasive test that provides a valuable contribution to the assessment of peripheral vestibular function in children.Level of Evidence3b Laryngoscope, 126:727–731, 2016
To stent or not to stent? A meta‐analysis of endonasal congenital bilateral choanal atresia repair
Authors: Strychowsky Julie E. , Kawai Kosuke , Moritz Ethan , Rahbar Reza , Adil Eelam A. 
Published: May 2015

ObjectivesThe use of nasal stents as a postoperative adjunct following repair of choanal atresia remains controversial. The study objective was to systematically review the literature regarding the efficacy and safety of stenting following transnasal endoscopic repair of bilateral choanal atresia.Study DesignSystematic review with meta‐analysis.MethodsA comprehensive search in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library was conducted. Inclusion criteria included articles written in the English language with five or more subjects and clear intervention data and outcomes. Two independent reviewers screened studies for eligibility, appraised the level of evidence, extracted data, and resolved discrepancies by consensus. Successful surgery was defined as the absence of restenosis.ResultsOf 154 identified studies, 15 met inclusion criteria. Levels of evidence varied from level 3 to 4. Mean age at surgery ranged from 5 days to 25 months. Thirteen studies (n = 167 patients) included patients who were stented; the weighted pooled proportion of successful surgery was 65% (95% confidence interval [CI], 49–76%). Mean duration of stenting ranged from 48 hours to 16 weeks. Six studies (n = 42) evaluated patients who were not stented; the weighted pooled proportion of successful surgery was 64% (95% CI, 42–84%). Complications associated with stenting included alar injury, vestibular stenosis, columellar tear, and stent dislodgement or blockage.ConclusionsSuccess rates for bilateral choanal atresia repair were similar with and without the use of nasal stents. The use of nasal stents may be associated with more complications. There is insufficient data to determine if mitomycin C is a useful therapeutic adjunct.Level of EvidenceNA Laryngoscope, 126:218–227, 2016
Resistant starches differentially stimulate Toll‐like receptors and attenuate proinflammatory cytokines in dendritic cells by modulation of intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Bermudez‐Brito Miriam , Rösch Christiane , Schols Henk A. , Faas Marijke M. , de Vos Paul 
Published: May 2015

ScopeMain objectives of this study were (1) to demonstrate direct signaling of starch on human dendritic cells (DCs), (2) to study whether this is mediated by the pattern recognition receptors such as Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and (3) to study whether intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) are involved in modulating the starch induced immune activation of DCs.Methods and resultsTwo different types of resistant starch, High‐maize® 260 (RS2) and Novelose® 330 (RS3) were characterized for their starch content and particle size. Human DCs and reporter cells for TLRs were incubated with starches and analyzed for NF‐kB/AP‐1 activation. Complex coculture systems were applied to study the cross‐talk. High‐maize® 260 predominantly binds to TLR2 while Novelose® 330 binds to TLR2 and TLR5. The strong immune‐stimulating effects of High‐maize® 260 were attenuated by starch‐exposed IECs illustrating the regulatory function of IECs. Despite these attenuating effects, DCs kept producing Th1 cytokines.ConclusionResistant starch possesses direct signaling capacity on human DCs in a starch‐type‐dependent manner. IECs regulate these responses. High‐maize® 260 skews toward a more regulatory phenotype in coculture systems of DCs, IEC, and T cells.
Study of the morphology of ZnS thin films deposited on different substrates via chemical bath deposition
Authors: Gómez‐Gutiérrez Claudia M. , Luque P.A. , Castro‐Beltran A. , Vilchis‐Nestor A.R. , Lugo‐Medina Eder , Carrillo‐Castillo A. , Quevedo‐Lopez M. A. , Olivas A. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryIn this work, the influence of substrate on the morphology of ZnS thin films by chemical bath deposition is studied. The materials used were zinc acetate, tri‐sodium citrate, thiourea, and ammonium hydroxide/ammonium chloride solution. The growth of ZnS thin films on different substrates showed a large variation on the surface, presenting a poor growth on SiO2 and HfO2 substrates. The thin films on ITO substrate presented a uniform and compact growth without pinholes. The optical properties showed a transmittance of about 85% in the visible range of 300–800 nm with band gap of 3.7 eV. SCANNING 37:389–392, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.