bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KLRG1 Impairs CD4+ T Cell Responses via p16ink4a and p27kip1 Pathways: Role in Hepatitis B Vaccine Failure in Individuals with Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Shi Lei , Wang Jia M. , Ren Jun P. , Cheng Yong Q. , Ying Ruo S. , Wu Xiao Y. , Lin Shu M. , Griffin Jeddidiah W. D. , Li Guang Y. , Moorman Jonathan P. , Yao Zhi Q.
Published: December 2013

Coinfection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is quite common, leading to an increase in morbidity and mortality. As such, HBV vaccination is recommended in HCV-infected individuals. However, HBV vaccine responses in HCV-infected individuals are often blunted compared with uninfected populations. The mechanism for this failure of vaccine response in HCV-infected subjects remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the expression and function of an inhibitory receptor, killer cell lectin-like receptor subfamily G member 1 (KLRG1), in the regulation of CD4+ T cells and HBV vaccine responses during HCV infection. We demonstrated that KLRG1 was overexpressed on CD4+ T cells from HCV-infected, HBV vaccine nonresponders compared with HBV vaccine responders. The capacity of CD4+ T cells to proliferate and secrete IL-2 cytokine was inversely associated with the level of KLRG1 expression. Importantly, blocking KLRG1 signaling resulted in a significant improvement in CD4+ T cell proliferation and IL-2 production in HCV-infected, HBV vaccine nonresponders in response to TCR stimulation. Moreover, blockade of KLRG1 increased the phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473) and decreased the expression of cell cycle inhibitors p16ink4a and p27kip1, which subsequently enhanced the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase 2 and cyclin E. These results suggest that the KLRG1 pathway impairs CD4+ T cell responses to neoantigen and induces a state of immune senescence in individuals with HCV infection, raising the possibility that blocking this negative-signaling pathway might improve HBV vaccine responses in the setting of chronic viral infection.
Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm: A Rapidly Progressive and Fatal Disease without Aggressive Intervention
Authors: Prochaska Lindsey , Dakhil Christopher , Mathur Sharad
Published: December 2013

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is an aggressive myeloid neoplasm derived from plasmacytoid monocytes. The most common presentation involves cutaneous manifestations, which are often accompanied by bone marrow involvement. The tumor cells reveal an immature blastic appearance and diagnosis is based on the expression of cluster of differentiation (CD)4 and CD56. The literature reports a high relapse rate and poor prognosis when treated with leukemia-type induction chemotherapy alone; however, long-term remission is attainable with allogeneic stem cell transplantation in the first complete remission. Here, we report the dismal course of a patient with BPDCN with cutaneous and bone marrow involvement unable to undergo an aggressive intervention.
Lessons Learned from Developing a Drug Evidence Base to Support Pharmacovigilance
Authors: Denny J.C. , Chen Q. , Nian H. , Spickard A. , Rosenbloom S. T. , Miller R. A. , Smith J.C.
Published: December 2013

Objectives: This work identified challenges associated with extraction and representation of medication-related information from publicly available electronic sources.

Methods: We gained direct observational experience through creating and evaluating the Drug Evidence Base (DEB), a repository of drug indications and adverse effects (ADEs), and supplemented this through literature review. We extracted DEB content from the National Drug File Reference Terminology, from aggregated MEDLINE co-occurrence data, and from the National Library of Medicine’s DailyMed. To understand better the similarities, differences and problems with the content of DEB and the SIDER Side Effect Resource, and Vanderbilt’s MEDI Indication Resource, we carried out statistical evaluations and human expert reviews.

Results: While DEB, SIDER, and MEDI often agreed on medication indications and side effects, cross-system shortcomings limit their current utility. The drug information resources we evaluated frequently employed multiple, disparate vaguely related UMLS concepts to represent a single specific clinical drug indication or adverse effect. Thus, evaluations comparing drug-indication and drug-ADE coverage for such resources will encounter substantial numbers of false negative and false positive matches. Furthermore, our review found that many indication and ADE relationships are too complex – logically and temporally – to represent within existing systems.

Conclusion: To enhance applicability and utility, future drug information systems deriving indications and ADEs from public resources must represent clinical concepts uniformly and as precisely as possible. Future systems must also better represent the inherent complexity of indications and ADEs.

Citation: Smith JC, Denny JC, Chen Q, Nian H, Spickard III A, Rosenbloom ST, Miller RA. Lessons learned from developing a drug evidence base to support pharmacovigilance. Appl Clin Inf 2013; 4: 596–617

http://dx.doi.org/10.4338/ACI-2013-08-RA-0062
Likely Additive Ergogenic Effects of Combined Preexercise Dietary Nitrate and Caffeine Ingestion in Trained Cyclists
Authors: Handzlik Michal K. , Gleeson Michael
Published: December 2013

Aims. To evaluate the possible additive effects of beetroot juice plus caffeine on exercise performance. Methods. In a randomized, double-blinded study design, fourteen healthy well-trained men aged 22±3 years performed four trials on different occasions following preexercise ingestion of placebo (PLA), PLA plus 5 mg/kg caffeine (PLA+C), beetroot juice providing 8 mmol of nitrate (BR), and beetroot juice plus caffeine (BR+C). Participants cycled at 60% maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max) for 30 min followed by a time to exhaustion (TTE) trial at 80% V˙O2max. Saliva was collected before supplement ingestion, before exercise, and after the TTE trial for salivary nitrate, nitrite, and cortisol analysis. Results. In beetroot trials, saliva nitrate and nitrite increased >10-fold before exercise compared with preingestion (P≤0.002). TTE in BR+C was 46% higher than in PLA (P=0.096) and 18% and 27% nonsignificant TTE improvements were observed on BR+C compared with BR and PLA+C alone, respectively. Lower ratings of perceived exertion during TTE were found during 80% V˙O2max on BR+C compared with PLA and PLA+C (P<0.05 for both). Conclusions. Acute preexercise beetroot juice coingestion with caffeine likely has additive effects on exercise performance compared with either beetroot or caffeine alone.
Association of Mandible Anatomy with Age, Gender, and Dental Status: A Radiographic Study
Authors: Chole Revant H. , Patil Ranjitkumar N. , Balsaraf Chole Swati , Gondivkar Shailesh , Gadbail Amol R. , Yuwanati Monal B.
Published: December 2013

Introduction. Gonial angle and antegonial region are important landmarks in mandible which is influenced by gender, age, and dental status. The objective of this study was to evaluate the gonial angle, antegonial angle, and antegonial depth and to investigate their relationship to gender, age group, and dental status.Materials and Methods. A total of 1060 panoramic radiographs were evaluated: the dentulous group, 854 subjects and the edentulous group, 206 subjects. The patients were grouped into six age groups of 10-years each. Gonial angle, antegonial angle, and antegonial depth were measured from panoramic radiographs.Results and Discussion. Corelation of age with gonial angle, antegonial angle and antegonial depth was not significant. Significant difference in mandibular angle was found between males and females. Males had significantly smaller antegonial angle and greater antegonial depth than females. Significant difference was found for gonial angle, antegonial angle, and antegonial depth between right and left sides of mandible.Conclusion. Gonial angle, antegonial angle, and antegonial depth can be implicated as a forensic tool for gender determination but not suitable for age determination.
Quick diagnostic unit integrated in an emergency department setting reduces medical admissions – an observational study
Authors: Petersen Dan Brun , Schmidt Thomas Andersen
Published: December 2013

Background: Hospitals in countries with public health systems have recently adopted organizational changes to improve efficiency and resource allocation, and reducing inappropriate hospitalizations has been established as an important goal, as well as avoiding or buffering overcrowding in Emergency Departments (EDs). Aims: Our goal was to describe the impact of a Quick Diagnostic Unit established on January 1, 2012, integrated in an ED setting in a Danish public university hospital following its function for the first year. Design: Observational, descriptive and comparative study. Methods: Our sample comprised the total number of patients being admitted and discharged from the Department of Internal Medicine in 2011 and 2012, with special focus on the General Medicine Ward. Results: Compared with 2011 the establishment of the Quick Diagnostic Unit integrated in the Emergency Department resulted in the admittance and discharge of fewer patients (40%; p < .0001) to the hospital’s General Medicine Ward and 11.6% (p < .0001) fewer patients in the whole Department of Internal Medicine. Conclusions: A Quick Diagnostic Unit integrated in an ED setting represents a useful and fast track model for the diagnostic study and treatment of patients with simple internal medicine ailments, and also serves as a buffer for overcrowding of the ED.
‘Notes on a Scandal’: Why do Females Engage in Abuse of Trust Behaviours?
Authors: Darling Andrea J. , Antonopoulos Georgios A.
Published: December 2013

Although an evident reality in organisations where females work with young people, there has been no specific research to date exploring why females in positions of trust engage in sexually abusive relationships with adolescents. This study investigated the subject through a qualitative analysis of ten case studies from England drawn from the employment and safeguarding environment, comparing findings with existing studies into female sexual offenders in general, research into male ‘professional perpetrators’ and Gannon et al.’s (2008) Descriptive Model of Female Sexual Offending. The research highlighted a number of key similarities and differences between those who abuse in positions of trust and those female sexual offenders who abuse children in wider contexts. With respect to etiological factors the similarities included unstable lifestyle, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, cognitive distortions and emotional self-management problems. Motivations for this sample appeared to be primarily driven by intimacy needs. Differences were identified relating to lower levels of substance abuse, a higher age range and socio-economic status, less prevalence of severe social skills deficits and chaotic and abusive backgrounds in this subject group. All of the women in the study followed an Implicit Disorganised pathway of abuse and maternal approach to the abusive behaviour.
mtDNA Variation and Analysis Using Mitomap and Mitomaster
Authors: Lott Marie T. , Leipzig Jeremy N. , Derbeneva Olga , Xie H. Michael , Chalkia Dimitra , Sarmady Mahdi , Procaccio Vincent , Wallace Douglas C.
Published: December 2013

The Mitomap database of human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) information has been an important compilation of mtDNA variation for researchers, clinicians, and genetic counselors for the past 25 years. The Mitomap protocol shows how users may look up human mitochondrial gene loci, search for public mitochondrial sequences, and browse or search for reported general population nucleotide variants as well as those reported in clinical disease. Within Mitomap is the powerful sequence analysis tool for human mitochondrial DNA, Mitomaster. The Mitomaster protocol gives step‐by‐step instructions showing how to submit sequences to identify nucleotide variants relative to the rCRS, determine the haplogroup, and view species conservation. User‐supplied sequences, GenBank identifiers, and single‐nucleotide variants may be analyzed. Curr. Protoc. Bioinform. 44:1.23.1‐1.23.26. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Importance of temporal variability for hydrological predictions based on the maximum entropy production principle
Authors: Westhoff Martijn C. , Zehe Erwin , Schymanski Stanislaus J.
Published: December 2013

This work builds on earlier work by Kleidon and Schymanski (2008) who explored the use of the maximum entropy production (MEP) principle for modeling hydrological systems. They illustrated that MEP can be used to determine the partitioning of soil water into runoff and evaporation—which determines hydroclimatic conditions around the Globe—by optimizing effective soil and canopy conductances in a way to maximize entropy production by these fluxes. In the present study, we show analytically that under their assumption of constant rainfall, the proposed principle always yields an optimum where the two conductances are equal, irrespective of rainfall rate, evaporative demand, or gravitational potential. Subsequently, we show that under periodic forcing or periodic variations in one resistance (e.g., vegetation seasonality), the optimal conductance does depend on climatic drivers such as the length of dry spells or the time of closure of stomata.
Deep boundary current disintegration in Drake Passage
Authors: Brearley J. Alexander , Sheen Katy L. , Naveira Garabato Alberto C. , Smeed David A. , Speer Kevin G. , Thurnherr Andreas M. , Meredith Michael P. , Waterman Stephanie
Published: December 2013

The fate of a deep boundary current that originates in the Southeast Pacific and flows southward along the continental slope of South America is elucidated. The current transports poorly ventilated water of low salinity (a type of Pacific Deep Water, PDW), into Drake Passage. East of Drake Passage, the boundary current breaks into fresh anticyclonic eddies, nine examples of which were observed in mooring data from December 2009 to March 2012. The observed eddies appear to originate mainly from a topographic separation point close to 60°W, have typical diameters of 20–60 km and accompanying Rossby numbers of 0.1–0.3. These features are likely to be responsible for transporting PDW meridionally across the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, explaining the near homogenization of Circumpolar Deep Water properties downstream of Drake Passage. This mechanism of boundary current breakdown may constitute an important process in the Southern Ocean overturning circulation.
A computationally efficient description of heterogeneous freezing: A simplified version of the Soccer ball model
Authors: Niedermeier Dennis , Ervens Barbara , Clauss Tina , Voigtländer Jens , Wex Heike , Hartmann Susan , Stratmann Frank
Published: December 2013

In a recent study, the Soccer ball model (SBM) was introduced for modeling and/or parameterizing heterogeneous ice nucleation processes. The model applies classical nucleation theory. It allows for a consistent description of both apparently singular and stochastic ice nucleation behavior, by distributing contact angles over the nucleation sites of a particle population assuming a Gaussian probability density function. The original SBM utilizes the Monte Carlo technique, which hampers its usage in atmospheric models, as fairly time‐consuming calculations must be performed to obtain statistically significant results. Thus, we have developed a simplified and computationally more efficient version of the SBM. We successfully used the new SBM to parameterize experimental nucleation data of, e.g., bacterial ice nucleation. Both SBMs give identical results; however, the new model is computationally less expensive as confirmed by cloud parcel simulations. Therefore, it is a suitable tool for describing heterogeneous ice nucleation processes in atmospheric models.
Sea surface salinity and barrier layer variability in the equatorial Pacific as seen from Aquarius and Argo
Authors: Qu Tangdong , Song Y. Tony , Maes Christophe
Published: December 2013

This study investigates the sea surface salinity (SSS) and barrier layer variability in the equatorial Pacific using recently available Aquarius and Argo data. Comparison between the two data sets indicates that Aquarius is able to capture most of the SSS features identified by Argo. Despite some discrepancies in the mean value, the SSS from the two data sets shows essentially the same seasonal cycle in both magnitude and phase. For the period of observation between August 2011 and July 2013 Aquarius nicely resolved the zonal displacement of the SSS front along the equator, showing its observing capacity of the western Pacific warm pool. Analysis of the Argo data provides further information on surface stratification. A thick barrier layer is present on the western side of the SSS front during all the period of observation, moving back and forth along the equator with its correlation with the Southern Oscillation Index exceeding 0.80. Generally, the thick barrier layer moves eastward during El Niño and westward during La Niña. The mechanisms responsible for this zonal displacement are discussed.
Impact of radiatively interactive dust aerosols in the NASA GEOS‐5 climate model: Sensitivity to dust particle shape and refractive index
Authors: Colarco Peter R. , Nowottnick Edward P. , Randles Cynthia A. , Yi Bingqi , Yang Ping , Kim Kyu‐Myong , Smith Jamison A. , Bardeen Charles G.
Published: December 2013

The radiative effects of Saharan dust aerosols are investigated in the NASA GEOS‐5 atmospheric general circulation model. A sectional aerosol microphysics model (CARMA) is run online in GEOS‐5. CARMA treats the dust aerosol lifecycle, and its tracers are radiatively coupled to GEOS‐5. A series of AMIP‐style simulations are performed, in which input dust optical properties (particle shape and refractive index) are varied. Simulated dust distributions for summertime Saharan dust compare well to observations, with best results found when the most absorbing dust optical properties are assumed. Dust absorption leads to a strengthening of the summertime Hadley cell circulation, increased dust lofting to higher altitudes, and a strengthening of the African easterly jet, resulting in increased dust atmospheric lifetime and farther northward and westward transport. We find a positive feedback of dust radiative forcing on emissions, in contrast with previous studies, which we attribute to our having a relatively strong longwave forcing caused by our simulating larger effective particle sizes. This longwave forcing reduces the magnitude of midday net surface cooling relative to other studies, and leads to a nighttime warming that results in higher nighttime wind speeds and dust emissions. The radiative effects of dust particle shape have only minor impact on transport and emissions, with small (~5%) impact on top of atmosphere shortwave forcing, in line with previous studies, but relatively more pronounced effects on shortwave atmospheric heating and surface forcing (~20% increase in atmospheric forcing for spheroids). Shape effects on longwave heating terms are of order ~10%.
Quasi‐Lagrangian measurements of nitric acid trihydrate formation over Antarctica
Authors: Ward Shauna M. , Deshler Terry , Hertzog Albert
Published: December 2013

In 2010, the joint French‐United States Concordiasi project released 19 long‐duration superpressure balloons from McMurdo Station, Antarctica. Four of these balloons carried a gondola with particle counters and temperature sensors to measure polar stratospheric clouds. One gondola spent 5 days at stable temperatures between equilibrium temperatures for nitric acid trihydrate (NAT) and for supercooled ternary solution droplets. Sporadic particles with radii between 0.46 µm and 4.5 µm were measured in a small fraction of the measurements. At these times the corresponding size distributions and total particle volumes were consistent with NAT. Although the fraction of these observations was less than 3%, their frequency increased with time over the 5 days. From this frequency the NAT nucleation rate at 3°C below TNAT was estimated to be 2 × 10−4 m−3 s−1 ± 60% for these late winter austral NAT observations at a potential temperature of 410–415 K. Interspersed with these measurements of polar stratospheric cloud particles consistent with NAT were many more measurements of particles consistent with background stratospheric aerosol indicating that the polar stratospheric clouds sampled were highly discontinuous.
Analysis of the Size Effect on Springback Behavior in Micro‐Scaled U‐Bending Process of Sheet Metals
Authors: Wang Jilai , Fu Mingwang , Ran Jiaqi
Published: December 2013

In the micro‐bending process of sheet metals, springback caused by the considerable elastic recovery during unloading has a significant effect on the dimension precision of micro‐bent sheet metal parts. In design of micro‐bent parts and bending process, this phenomenon needs to be considered. However, the traditional well‐established knowledge for analysis of macro‐scaled sheet metal bending processes may not be very suitable and efficient in analysis of micro‐scaled sheet metal bending due to the geometry and microstructure size effects in the process. To explore the unloading springback of sheet metals after micro‐bending, the experimental studies on the interactive influence of a few significant parameters including sheet thickness, grain size, and punch radius on the springback in micro U‐bending process of copper alloy sheets were conducted. An appropriate constitutive model based on the surface layer model, which is widely used in micro‐scaled forming processes, is proposed to predict the amount of springback and the relationship among these parameters is further established. The research shows that the springback angle generally increases with the decreasing sheet thickness, and for different punch radii, the springback angle has different variation trends for the sheet metals with different grain sizes. The developed analysis method is verified via the comparison of the calculated stress–strain curves with the tensile test results of three kinds of copper alloy sheets. The findings on how the size effects affect the springback behaviors of in micro‐bending process are validated by the experimental results, finite element simulation, and the comparison in‐between.
Bioprocessing Device Composed of Protein/DNA/Inorganic Material Hybrid
Authors: Lee Taek , Yagati Ajay Kumar , Min Junhong , Choi Jeong‐Woo
Published: December 2013

Major challenges in molecular electronics include miniaturization, and the realization of a simple function to alter silicon‐based electronics. It has been hard to develop a single molecular‐based computing system, since such systems need complex functionality to be developed at the single‐molecular level. To develop a molecular‐based biocomputing system, a bioprocessing device is demonstrated that consists of recombinant azurin/DNA/inorganic material hybrid to perform the various functions in a device. A metalloprotein which exhibits redox behavior is used as a biomemory source. The redox property could be controlled with command materials (conducting nanoparticles, heavy metal ions, and semiconducting nanoparticles) to perform ‘information reinforcement,’ ‘information regulation,’ and ‘information amplification’ functions, respectively. This bioprocessing device could be a foundation to develop single‐biomolecular‐based computing systems.
25th Anniversary Article: Artificial Carbonate Nanocrystals and Layered Structural Nanocomposites Inspired by Nacre: Synthesis, Fabrication and Applications
Authors: Yao Hong‐Bin , Ge Jin , Mao Li‐Bo , Yan You‐Xian , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: December 2013

Rigid biological systems are increasingly becoming a source of inspiration for the fabrication of next generation advanced functional materials due to their diverse hierarchical structures and remarkable engineering properties. Among these rigid biomaterials, nacre, as the main constituent of the armor system of seashells, exhibiting a well‐defined ‘brick‐and‐mortar’ architecture, excellent mechanical properties, and interesting iridescence, has become one of the most attractive models for novel artificial materials design. In this review, recent advances in nacre‐inspired artificial carbonate nanocrystals and layered structural nanocomposites are presented. To clearly illustrate the inspiration of nacre, the basic principles relating to plate‐like aragonite single‐crystal growth and the contribution of hierarchical structure to outstanding properties in nacre are discussed. The inspiration of nacre for the synthesis of carbonate nanocrystals and the fabrication of layered structural nanocomposites is also discussed. Furthermore, the broad applications of these nacre inspired materials are emphasized. Finally, a brief summary of present nacre‐inspired materials and challenges for the next generation of nacre‐inspired materials is given.
The use of generalized linear models and generalized estimating equations in bioarchaeological studies
Authors: Nikita Efthymia
Published: December 2013

The current article explores whether the application of generalized linear models (GLM) and generalized estimating equations (GEE) can be used in place of conventional statistical analyses in the study of ordinal data that code an underlying continuous variable, like entheseal changes. The analysis of artificial data and ordinal data expressing entheseal changes in archaeological North African populations gave the following results. Parametric and nonparametric tests give convergent results particularly forPvalues <0.1, irrespective of whether the underlying variable is normally distributed or not under the condition that the samples involved in the tests exhibit approximately equal sizes. If this prerequisite is valid and provided that the samples are of equal variances, analysis of covariance may be adopted. GLM are not subject to constraints and give results that converge to those obtained from all nonparametric tests. Therefore, they can be used instead of traditional tests as they give the same amount of information as them, but with the advantage of allowing the study of the simultaneous impact of multiple predictors and their interactions and the modeling of the experimental data. However, GLM should be replaced by GEE for the study of bilateral asymmetry and in general when paired samples are tested, because GEE are appropriate for correlated data. Am J Phys Anthropol 153:473–483, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Abnormal junctions and permeability of myelin in PMP22‐deficient nerves
Authors: Guo Jiasong , Wang Leiming , Zhang Yang , Wu Jiawen , Arpag Sezgi , Hu Bo , Imhof Beat A. , Tian Xinxia , Carter Bruce D. , Suter Ueli , Li Jun
Published: December 2013

Objective

The peripheral myelin protein‐22 (PMP22) gene is associated with the most common types of inherited neuropathies, including hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) caused by PMP22 deficiency. However, the function of PMP22 has yet to be defined. Our previous study has shown that PMP22 deficiency causes an impaired propagation of nerve action potentials in the absence of demyelination. In the present study, we tested an alternative mechanism relating to myelin permeability.

Methods

Utilizing Pmp22+/− mice as a model of HNPP, we evaluated myelin junctions and their permeability using morphological, electrophysiological, and biochemical approaches.

Results

We show disruption of multiple types of cell junction complexes in peripheral nerve, resulting in increased permeability of myelin and impaired action potential propagation. We further demonstrate that PMP22 interacts with immunoglobulin domain–containing proteins known to regulate tight/adherens junctions and/or transmembrane adhesions, including junctional adhesion molecule‐C (JAM‐C) and myelin‐associated glycoprotein (MAG). Deletion of Jam‐c or Mag in mice recapitulates pathology in HNPP.

Interpretation

Our study reveals a novel mechanism by which PMP22 deficiency affects nerve conduction not through removal of myelin, but through disruption of myelin junctions. Ann Neurol 2014;75:255–265
Well‐Defined, Nanometer‐Sized LiH Cluster Compounds Stabilized by Pyrazolate Ligands
Authors: Stasch Andreas
Published: December 2013

The assembly of well‐defined large cluster compounds of ionic light metal hydrides is a synthetic challenge and of importance for synthesis, catalysis, and hydrogen storage. The synthesis and characterization of a series of neutral and anionic pyrazolate‐stabilized lithium hydride clusters with inorganic cores in the nanometer region is now reported. These complexes were prepared in a bottom‐up approach using alkyl lithium and lithium pyrazolate mixtures with silanes in hydrocarbon solutions. Structural characterization using synchrotron radiation revealed isolated cubic clusters that contain up to 37 Li+ cations and 26 H− ions. Substituted pyrazolate ligands were found to occupy all corners and some edges for the anionic positions.
Preparation and dielectric behavior of polyvinylidene fluoride composite filled with modified graphite nanoplatelet
Authors: Xie Pincheng , Li Yuchao , Qiu Jun
Published: December 2013

Graphite nanoplatelet (GNP) was modified by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), Cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), γ‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH‐550), and Stearic acid (SA), respectively. The polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/modified GNP (m‐GNP) nanocomposites were fabricated via solution mixing method. SEM, TEM, XRD, FTIR, and impendence analyzer were used to characterize the morphology, structure, and their electrical properties. Results showed that PVP and CTAB modified‐GNP enables a better homogeneous dispersion of GNP in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent than that of KH‐550 and SA, which leads to a decreased conductivity in PVDF/m‐GNP system. The permittivities of these nanocomposites were found to decrease with increasing frequencies. The SA modified‐GNP filled PVDF nanocomposite has the largest dielectric constant and lowest dielectric loss. Such electrical behavior can be well interpreted in terms of the percolation theory. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40229.
Investigation of the migration behavior of polyisobutylene with various molecular weights in ethylene/α‐olefin copolymer blown stretch films for improved cling properties
Authors: Rennert Mirko , Fiedler Steffen , Nase Michael , Menzel Matthias , Günther Sandra , Kressler Jörg , Grellmann Wolfgang
Published: December 2013

High retention forces are the basic requirements on stretch films for agricultural or pallet wrapping of goods and significantly influenced by cling properties (autohesion) that are essential for a reliable load stability during transportation and storage. Low molecular weight polyisobutylene (PIB) has tacky properties and is immiscible with polyethylene. Blended with ethylene/α‐olefin copolymers in coextruded stretch films, PIB can migrate to the film surfaces and cause cling properties. Cling and adhesion forces were investigated using the mechanical cling test, atomic force, and scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy. The molecular weight of the PIB as well as density and crystallinity of the matrix material have strong influences on migration kinetics and therefore, on the cling forces. Cling forces increase with increasing aging time, having a maximum after 2 weeks of production. The following slight decrease of the cling force might be correlated with a beginning degradation process of the UV sensitive PIB. Polyisobutylene with higher molecular weight diffuses slower through a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) matrix than lower molecular weight PIB, but can cause higher cling forces on the film surfaces. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40239.
Tribological mechanism improving the wear resistance of polyurethane/epoxy interpenetrating polymer network via nanodiamond hybridization
Authors: Xia Shaoling , Liu Yingliang , Zhang Linqi , Wang Dongmei , Zou Wenjun , Peng Jin , Cao Shaokui
Published: December 2013

The excellent synergistic effect of physical/mechanical properties of polyurethane/epoxy (PU/EP) interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) and the validity of nanofilling have one potential to improve the wear resistance of polymeric materials. With the aim of practical application, PU/EP IPN nanocomposites are prepared with nanodiamond (ND) as a reinforcing additive. Results showed the uniform thermal stability and the excellent compatibility between PU and EP in ND‐hybridized PU/EP IPN. Simultaneously, ND particles work as crosslinked points improving the physical/mechanical properties of ND‐hybridized PU/EP IPN, especially the wear resistance. The measurement of tribological property and the scanning electron microscope indicated that the wear resistance is able to be improved a lot by the formation of IPN and by the addition of ND. Consequently, the tribological mechanism of PU/EP IPN nanocomposites comes into being. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40244.
Surface modification of aramid fibers via ammonia‐plasma treatment
Authors: Li Shuang , Han Keqing , Rong Huaiping , Li Xuanzhe , Yu Muhuo
Published: December 2013

In this article, aramid fibers III were surface modified using an ammonia‐plasma treatment to improve the adhesive performance and surface wettability. The surface properties of fibers before and after plasma treatment were investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and water contact angle measurements. The interfacial shear strength of each aramid fibers III‐reinforced epoxy composites was studied by micro‐debonding test. The ammonia‐plasma treatment caused the significant chemical changes of aramid fibers III, introducing nitrogen‐containing polar functional groups, such as CN and CONH, and improving their surface roughness, which contributed to the improvement of adhesive performance and surface wettability. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40250.
The preparation of VEGFR1/CD3 bispecific antibody and its specific cytotoxicity against VEGFR1‐positive breast cancer cells
Authors: Tang Ping , Li Li , Zhou Yan , Shen Cong‐Cong , Kang Yu‐Huan , Yao Yu‐Qin , Yi Cheng , Gou Lan‐Tu , Yang Jin‐Liang
Published: December 2013

Bispecific antibody (BsAb) has been proved to be a very effective antitumor approach because of its distinctive advantages of immune‐mediated cytotoxicity. To enhance the ability to recruit and activate T lymphocytes for tumor‐specific killing, we constructed and prepared a recombinant human single‐chain Fv bispecific antibody (BsAb), named VEGFR1/CD3 BsAb, targeting VEGFR1 and CD3. The VEGFR1/CD3 BsAb was expressed in CHO‐K1 cells and purified by Ni‐NTA affinity chromatography. The CD3 and VEGFR1‐binding activity of VEGFR1/CD3 BsAb was confirmed by flow cytometry. T lymphocyte activation and proliferation induced by VEGFR1/CD3 BsAb were also demonstrated in vitro. Notably, our VEGFR1/CD3 BsAb presented a powerful and specific killing effect against VEGFR1‐positive human breast cancer cell MDA‐MB‐231 and MDA‐MB‐435 through activating T lymphocyte at very low concentrations, indicating that it will be a valuable antibody drug for treatment of VEGFR1‐positive cancers in the future.
A new multiobjective allocator of capacitor banks and distributed generations using a new investigated differential evolution
Authors: Eskandari Nasab Mohammad , Maleksaeedi Iman , Mohammadi Mohsen , Ghadimi Noradin
Published: December 2013

This article has investigated a new multiobjective allocation of optimal sizing and sitting of distributed generation (DG) units and capacitor banks in simultaneous mode to improve reliability and reduce energy losses. The proposed method consists of four objectives, that is, cost of energy not supplied, system average interruption duration index, costs of energy loss and investment. A novel structure differential evolution has been suggested to solve this nonlinear complex problem and its results are compared with related values of genetic algorithm and simple differential evolutionary algorithm. In addition to the novel objective function, the other contribution of this article is proposing a new model for load and energy cost. Three types of DGs, that is, wind turbine, solar cell, and diesel generator have been used in placement process. To verify the comprehensiveness of the proposed function, three scenarios have been introduced: scenario i: first, placement of DGs, then capacitor banks, scenario ii: first, placement of capacitor banks, and then DGs, and scenario iii: simultaneous placement of DGs and capacitor banks. Simulations have been carried out on one part of practical distribution network in Metropolitan Tabriz in North West of Iran. The results of simulations have been discussed and analyzed using the five novel indices. The obtained simulation results using proposed function shows that the simultaneous placement of DGs and capacitor banks results in more reduction of the energy losses and increase improvements of reliability indices as well as voltage profile. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 19: 40–54, 2014
Microflow1, a sheathless fiber‐optic flow cytometry biomedical platform: Demonstration onboard the international space station
Authors: Dubeau‐Laramée Geneviève , Rivière Christophe , Jean Isabelle , Mermut Ozzy , Cohen Luchino Y.
Published: December 2013

A fiber‐optic based flow cytometry platform was designed to build a portable and robust instrument for space applications. At the core of the Microflow1 is a unique fiber‐optic flow cell fitted to a fluidic system and fiber coupled to the source and detection channels. A Microflow1 engineering unit was first tested and benchmarked against a commercial flow cytometer as a reference in a standard laboratory environment. Testing in parabolic flight campaigns was performed to establish Microflow1's performance in weightlessness, before operating the new platform on the International Space Station. Microflow1 had comparable performances to commercial systems, and operated remarkably and robustly in weightlessness (microgravity). Microflow1 supported immunophenotyping as well as microbead‐based multiplexed cytokine assays in the space environment and independently of gravity levels. Results presented here provide evidence that this fiber‐optic cytometer technology is inherently compatible with the space environment with negligible compromise to analytical performance. Published by Wiley‐Periodicals, Inc. © 2013 Government of Canada
Intraductal tubulopapillary neoplasm with expansile invasive carcinoma of the pancreas diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided fine needle aspiration: A case report
Authors: Furuhata Ayako , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Mikami Yoshiki , Kodama Yuzo , Sumiyoshi Shinji , Adachi Souichi , Haga Hironori
Published: December 2013

Intraductal tubulopapillary neoplasm (ITPN) of the pancreas, a novel entity included in the World Health Organization 2010 classification, accounts for <1% of all pancreatic exocrine neoplasms and the number of reported cases is limited in the English literature. Herein we describe the cytologic features of ITPN with invasive carcinoma showing expansile growth on endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided fine needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) cytology.

A 74‐year‐old male patient is presented with a 6.2 cm irregular mass in the head of the pancreas. Microscopic examination of EUS‐FNA material showed abundant branching clusters of cells, with some scattered discohesive cells. High power magnification revealed tubular and cribriform patterns with central lumina, containing mucinous or proteinaceous secretions. The constituent cells were relatively uniform and showed mild to intermediate nuclear atypia. Intracytoplasmic mucin was not identified. On cell‐block preparation, luminal spaces of clusters contained wispy luminal mucin. Immunohistochemically, constituent cells were positive for MUC1 and MUC6, and were negative for MUC5AC.

The large cribriform and tubular clusters with luminal spaces containing wispy mucin were considered to be diagnostic clues for the cytologic diagnosis of ITPN by EUS‐FNA. MUC1, MUC6, and MUC5AC immunohistochemistry for cell‐block preparation appears to be a useful adjunctive tool to confirm the diagnosis. On EUS‐FNA, ITPN should be included in the differential diagnosis of a pancreatic mass lesion showing good circumscription. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2014;42:314–320. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Parent skills training treatment for parents of children and adolescents with eating disorders: A qualitative study
Authors: Goodier Gabrielle H. G. , McCormack Julie , Egan Sarah J. , Watson Hunna J. , Hoiles Kimberley J. , Todd Gillian , Treasure Janet L.
Published: December 2013

Objective

This study examined the experience of parents of children with eating disorders after having participated in a skills‐based training intervention.

Method

Eleven parents were interviewed and transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Parent responses were organised around key themes of (1) effectiveness and acceptability of the intervention; (2) interpersonal experience of the group process; and (3) feedback on intervention content. Overall, the transfer of specialist skills was highly valued by parents and applied within the home and hospital setting.

Discussion

This study contributes preliminary evidence that skills‐based training may improve parent self‐efficacy, psychological distress, anxiety, and burden. This intervention can also be a cost‐effective method for supporting carers, and future research is required to contribute data on treatment efficacy for patients in addition to parents. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:368–375)
Eating‐disordered behavior in adolescent boys: Eating disorder examination questionnaire norms
Authors: Mond Jonathan , Hall Ashleigh , Bentley Caroline , Harrison Carmel , Gratwick‐Sarll Kassandra , Lewis Vivienne
Published: December 2013

Objective

We sought to provide normative data for the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q) for adolescent boys.

Method

The EDE‐Q was completed by 531 boys aged 12–18 years recruited from a number of schools in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) region of Australia. Data for 1,135 female adolescents, recruited as part of the same research project, are provided for comparative purposes.

Results

Scores on each the EDE‐Q subscales and, with the exception of excessive exercise, the prevalence of each of the eating disorder behaviors assessed, were substantially higher among girls than among boys. Still, 6.0% of boys reported regular episodes of objective binge eating, 8.3% reported regular episodes of loss of control eating, 5.3% reported regular excessive exercise and 4.9% reported overvaluation of weight or shape. Eating‐disordered behavior was more common among older adolescents than among younger adolescents and this was the case for both boys and girls. Reliability coefficients for the EDE‐Q subscales were marginally lower in boys (0.70–0.94) than in girls (0.84–0.97).

Conclusions

The EDE‐Q appears to be suitable for use in adolescent boys, with the qualification that eating and weight/shape control behaviors that are largely confined to males may not be adequately assessed. The lack of assessment of subjective binge eating episodes may also be problematic. There is a need for research addressing whether and to what extent different features are associated with distress and disability in boys as well as the validity of the EDE‐Q assessment of these features when compared with interview assessment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2014; 47:335–341)
Analysis of Energy Saving and Environmental Characteristics of Electric Vehicles in Regionally Disaggregated World Energy Model
Authors: Komiyama Ryoichi , Fujii Yasumasa
Published: December 2013

This paper investigates the impact of an extensive introduction of electric vehicles (EV) and plug‐in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) into the global energy system by 2050. The significant growth of automobile ownership in emerging countries is likely to increase world oil demand and the associated carbon dioxide emissions. In order to address these energy, security, and environmental concerns, the deployment of clean energy vehicles, such as EV and PHEV, is expected to play a crucial role due to their high fuel efficiency. Consequently, we develop both a global energy system model and a world vehicle penetration model, which can explicitly analyze the impact of EV introduction into the seasonal daily electric load curve, with consideration of the specific electricity charging profile through 2050. The simulation results confirm that EV deployment contributes to energy conservation, because oil demand reduction outstrips the growth in electricity demand and the associated fuel input into the power generation mix. Concerning carbon dioxide abatement, the magnitude of the impact relies on the carbon intensity of the power generation mix. If the intensity is low enough to guarantee a carbon mitigation effect due to EV fuel saving, emissions reduction is well assured. It should be noted, however, that in regions with high carbon intensity in the power generation mix, carbon emissions per mileage of EVs is almost equivalent to that of efficient gasoline vehicles such as hybrid vehicles, and the figure for PHEV is slightly higher than for hybrid vehicles. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 186(4): 20–36, 2014; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22373
Autonomous Variable‐Resolution Map Building for Mobile Robots in Unknown Environments
Authors: Xiang Jingyu , Tazaki Yuichi , Inagaki Shinkichi , Suzuki Tatsuya
Published: December 2013

This paper presents a method that allows simultaneous map building and path planning for mobile robots in unknown environments. A graphical representation of a workspace in variable resolutions is constructed using measurement data obtained by omnidirectional distance sensors. At the same time, a search for a feasible path to the target destination is executed using the constructed graph map. The proposed method is evaluated by performing simulations and experiments using an omnidirectional mobile robot equipped with laser range finders. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 186(4): 59–69, 2014; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22493
Absence of a role for interleukin‐13 in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Biancheri Paolo , Di Sabatino Antonio , Ammoscato Francesca , Facciotti Federica , Caprioli Flavio , Curciarello Renata , Hoque Syed S. , Ghanbari Amir , Joe‐Njoku Ijeoma , Giuffrida Paolo , Rovedatti Laura , Geginat Jens , Corazza Gino R. , MacDonald Thomas T.
Published: December 2013

IL‐13 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of ulcerative colitis (UC), and may have a role in animal models of gut fibrosis. We studied the involvement of IL‐13 in inflammation and fibrosis in UC and Crohn's disease (CD). Intestinal biopsies and anti‐CD3/CD28‐ or anti‐CD2/CD28‐stimulated lamina propria mononuclear cells from UC and CD patients and control subjects were cultured, and IL‐13, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐17A and IFN‐γ production was measured. Mucosal IL‐13‐producing cells were characterised by flow cytometry. Gut explants from strictured CD, non‐strictured CD and healthy donors were cultured ex vivo, and secreted IL‐13, IL‐1β and collagen were measured. IL‐13 production by mucosal explants and activated lamina propria mononuclear cells did not differ between CD, UC and control subjects, and was at least a log lower than IFN‐γ and IL‐17A. IL‐13‐producing cells, and in particular natural killer T cells, were uniformly low in all groups. IL‐4 and IL‐5 were undetectable in culture supernatants. Explants of CD strictures produced low amounts of IL‐13, whereas IL‐1β and collagen were elevated. We could not confirm that UC or strictured CD are associated with elevated IL‐13 production. These data suggest that an anti‐IL‐13 Ab would not be an appropriate therapeutic strategy in inflammatory bowel disease.