bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymersomes for biotechnological applications: Large‐scale production of nano‐scale vesicles
Authors: Poschenrieder Sarah Theresa , Schiebel Sina Katharina , Castiglione Kathrin
Published: August 2016

Polymersomes have some fundamental advantages compared to their liposomal counterparts. Due to the increased stability of the polymeric membrane, polymersomes are intended to be reasonably applicable as carrier‐systems and universal reaction compartments for diverse medical and biotechnological applications. Regardless of the application area, suitable methods to produce large vesicle quantities in a controlled and cost‐effective manner have to be developed to put polymersome technology into action at the industrial scale. In this work, the amphiphilic triblock copolymer poly(2‐methyloxazoline)15‐poly(dimethylsiloxane)68‐poly(2‐methyloxazoline)15 was formed into uniform polymersomes. A recently established production process, based on the use of miniaturized stirred‐tank reactors at the milliliter‐scale (12 mL), was successfully scaled‐up to the liter‐scale (1.5 L) based on solid process engineering parameters. Dynamic light scattering measurements show that using standard propeller stirrers with a dimensionless diameter ≥0.65 in an unbaffled stirred‐tank reactor led to a narrow particle size distribution when providing a Froude number of = 6.52 at the same time. Polymersomes with a mean diameter of 180 nm and a low polydispersity index (PDI<0.2) were generated within about 1 h in one single production step. Thus, this work provides the fundamental basis for further scale‐up purposes, regarding polymersome production in stirred‐tank reactors at the industrial scale.
Analyzing Bending Stresses on Lithium‐Ion Battery Cathodes induced by the Assembly Process
Authors: Schilling Antje , Schmitt Jan , Dietrich Franz , Dröder Klaus
Published: August 2016

The industrialized winding of electrode–separator composites (ESCs; “jelly rolls”) applies bending stress to the winding mandrel. This affects the mechanical integrity of the substrate's coating and adhesion and may reduce the cycle stability and the battery life. Even though this motivates strong interest in the minimization of bending stress during production, there is no testing method available yet to characterize the composite such that process parameters can be derived. This article introduces a test method and apparatus for the effect of bending stress of electrodes. In this test method, electrodes are pulled over defined radii while the coating adhesion is observed continuously. This resembles the variation of the mandrel diameter and gives detailed insight into the limits of the allowed production parameter window. In a case study, a cathode material with Li(LiMnAl)2O4 (LMO) as active material is selected as an example to show the effectiveness of the method.
Lithium Permeation through Thin Lithium–Silicon Films for Battery Applications Investigated by Neutron Reflectometry
Authors: Strauß Florian , Hüger Erwin , Heitjans Paul , Geue Thomas , Stahn Jochen , Schmidt Harald
Published: August 2016

In the ongoing search for new negative electrode materials for lithium‐ion batteries, amorphous silicon with a theoretical specific capacity of almost 4000 mA h g−1 is still one of the most promising candidates. In order to optimize cycling behavior, prelithiation of silicon is discussed as possible solution. Yet, little is known about kinetics in the Li‐Si system, especially with a low lithium content. Using neutron reflectometry as a tool, lithium permeation through amorphous LixSi layers was probed during annealing. From the results a lithium permeability (diffusivity×solubility) of P=(3.3±0.9)×10−21 m2 s−1 is derived for LixSi (x≈0.1), which is identical to that of pure amorphous silicon.
Manganese Cobalt Oxide (MnCo2O4) Hollow Spheres as High Capacity Anode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jin Rencheng , Ma Yuqian , Sun Yexian , Li Honghao , Wang Qingyao , Chen Gang
Published: August 2016

Ternary metal oxides are considered as promising anode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), because they can circumvent the shortcomings of single‐component oxides. Herein, a facile hydrothermal route combined with calcination is used to fabricate manganese cobalt oxide (MnCo2O4) hollow spheres comprised of many mesoporous nanosheets. When used as anode material, the MnCo2O4 hollow spheres display excellent electrochemical properties. A specific capacity of 1023 mAh g−1 can be achieved after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g−1. Even at a high current density of 5000 mA g−1, a reversible discharge capacity as high as 755 mAh g−1 can be achieved.
Hydride‐Based Solid Oxide Fuel Cell–Battery Hybrid Electrochemical System
Authors: Guan Xiaofei , Jiang Jun , Lattimer Judith , Tsuchiya Masaru , Friend Cynthia M. , Ramanathan Shriram
Published: August 2016

The deployment of renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaics and wind turbines, poses challenges in terms of electricity grid stability due to the intermittent nature of such energy sources, which creates a need for innovative storage solutions. We demonstrate a metal hydride‐based hybrid electrochemical system that enables a solid‐oxide fuel cell to operate in both fuel cell mode and battery mode, allowing for un‐interrupted electricity generation. In the fuel cell mode, the device acts as a conventional fuel cell and converts the chemical energy stored in fuels into electrical energy. In the battery mode, the metal hydride near the anode releases hydrogen and quickly responds to fuel supply interruption or power demand surges. The concept demonstrated here is a promising way to provide a robust and economical solution for balancing power supply and demand for the electrical grid of the future.
Cannabis in epilepsy: From clinical practice to basic research focusing on the possible role of cannabidivarin
Authors: Morano Alessandra , Cifelli Pierangelo , Nencini Paolo , Antonilli Letizia , Fattouch Jinane , Ruffolo Gabriele , Roseti Cristina , Aronica Eleonora , Limatola Cristina , Di Bonaventura Carlo , Palma Eleonora , Giallonardo Anna Teresa
Published: August 2016

Cannabidivarin (CBDV) and cannabidiol (CBD) have recently emerged among cannabinoids for their potential antiepileptic properties, as shown in several animal models. We report the case of a patient affected by symptomatic partial epilepsy who used cannabis as self‐medication after the failure of countless pharmacological/surgical treatments. Clinical and video electroencephalogram (EEG) evaluations were periodically performed, and the serum levels of CBDV, CBD, and Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol were repeatedly measured. After cannabis administration, a dramatic clinical improvement, in terms of both decrease in seizure frequency and recovery of cognitive functions, was observed, which might parallel high CBDV plasma concentrations. To widen the spectrum of CBDV possible mechanisms of action, electrophysiological methods were applied to investigate whether it could exert some effects on γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptors. Our experiments showed that, in human hippocampal tissues of four patients affected by drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) transplanted in Xenopus oocytes, there is decrease of current rundown (i.e., reduction of use‐dependent GABAA current) after prolonged exposure to CBDV. This result has been confirmed using a single case of Rasmussen encephalitis (RE). Our patient's electroclinical improvement supports the hypothesis that cannabis could actually represent an effective, well‐tolerated antiepileptic drug. Moreover, the experimental data suggest that CBDV may greatly contribute to cannabis anticonvulsant effect through its possible GABAergic action.
Consumption of alcoholic beverages in adolescence and adulthood and risk of testicular germ cell tumor
Authors: Biggs Mary L. , Doody David R. , Trabert Britton , Starr Jacqueline R. , Chen Chu , Schwartz Stephen M.
Published: August 2016

The etiology of testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) remains obscure and accumulating evidence suggests that postnatal environmental or lifestyle factors may play a role. To investigate whether consumption of alcoholic beverages during adolescence or adulthood is associated with TGCT risk, we analyzed data from a USA population‐based case‐control study of 540 18–44 year‐old TGCT cases and 1,280 age‐matched controls. Participants were queried separately about consumption of beer, wine and liquor during grades 7–8, grades 9–12 and the 5 years before reference date (date of diagnosis for cases and corresponding date for controls). We used logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association of TGCT risk with alcoholic beverage consumption during the different periods, both total and by specific beverage types and separately for seminomas and nonseminomas. Compared with nondrinkers in the 5 years before reference date, the OR (95% CI) for 1–6, 7–13 and ≥14 drinks per week were 1.20 (0.85, 1.69), 1.23 (0.81, 1.85) and 1.56 (1.03, 2.37), respectively (p‐trend = 0.04). The corresponding results for alcohol consumption in grades 9–12 were 1.39 (1.06, 1.82), 1.07 (0.72, 1.60), 1.53 (1.01, 2.31) (p‐trend = 0.05). Alcohol consumption in grades 7–8 was uncommon and no statistically significant associations with TGCT were observed. Associations with alcohol consumption in the 5 years before reference date appeared stronger for nonseminomas than for seminomas, but the differences were not statistically significant (p≥0.10). Associations were similar across different alcoholic beverage types. Consumption of alcoholic beverages may be associated with an increased TGCT risk.
Real‐time ballistocardiographic artifact reduction using the k‐teager energy operator detector and multi‐channel referenced adaptive noise cancelling
Authors: Wen Xiaotong , Kang Mingxuan , Yao Li , Zhao Xiaojie
Published: August 2016

The simultaneous electroencephalogram (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) recording technique has recently received considerable attention and has been used in many studies on cognition and neurological disease. EEG‐fMRI simultaneous recording has the advantage of enabling the monitoring of brain activity with both high temporal resolution and high spatial resolution in real time. The successful removal of the ballistocardiographic (BCG) artifact from the EEG signal recorded during an MRI is an important prerequisite for real‐time EEG‐fMRI joint analysis. We have developed a new framework dedicated to BCG artifact removal in real‐time. This framework includes a new real‐time R‐peak detection method combining a k‐Teager energy operator, a thresholding detector, and a correlation detector, as well as a real‐time BCG artifact reduction procedure combining average artifact template subtraction and a new multi‐channel referenced adaptive noise cancelling method. Our results demonstrate that this new framework is efficient in the real‐time removal of the BCG artifact. The multi‐channel adaptive noise cancellation (mANC) method performs better than the traditional ANC method in eliminating the BCG residual artifact. In addition, the computational speed of the mANC method fulfills the requirements of real‐time EEG‐fMRI analysis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 26, 209–215, 2016
The usefulness of diffusion‐weighted readout‐segmented EPI and fast spin echo with BLADE (PROPELLER) k‐space sampling: A comparison with single‐shot EPI for diffusion‐weighted imaging in ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Jang Jinhee , Ahn Kook‐Jin , Kim Bom‐Yi , Porter David , Stemmer Alto , Choi Hyun Seok , Jung So‐Lyung , Kim Bum‐Soo
Published: August 2016

We evaluated the value of diffusion‐weighted readout‐segmented EPI (DW rs‐EPI) and diffusion‐weighted fast spin echo images with BLADE (PROPELLER) k‐space sampling (DW BLADE) in patients with ischemic stroke through intra‐individual comparisons with diffusion‐weighted single‐shot EPI (DW ss‐EPI). Forty‐four patients with acute ischemic stroke who had undergone three different types of diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) (b = 1000 s/mm2) were included. Two reviewers assessed the three types of DWI for diagnostic confidence based on a five‐point confidence score (CS). The inter‐ and intra‐observer agreements for the CS were assessed. The DWI signal ratio to the contralateral normal area and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of DWI lesions were compared. The CSs of the three DWI methods were significantly different (P < 0.001). A post hoc analysis showed a significantly higher CS with DW rs‐EPI than with DW ss‐EPI (P = 0.022). There were significant increases in the CSs for DW rs‐EPI compared to DW ss‐EPI, for patients who underwent DWI within 24 h of symptom onset, and for patients with DWI lesions ≤ 50 mm2. The inter‐observer and intra‐observer agreements of the CS were good. DW rs‐EPI increased the diagnostic confidence of ischemic stroke compared to DW ss‐EPI, particularly for patients with small lesions and for those who underwent DWI within 24 h of symptom onset. DW BLADE showed a similar level of diagnostic confidence to DW ss‐EPI. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 26, 216–224, 2016
Oriented collagen tubes combined with basic fibroblast growth factor promote peripheral nerve regeneration in a 15 mm sciatic nerve defect rat model
Authors: Fujimaki Hisako , Uchida Kentaro , Inoue Gen , Miyagi Masayuki , Nemoto Noriko , Saku Taro , Isobe Yoshihiro , Inage Kazuhide , Matsushita Osamu , Yagishita Saburo , Sato Jun , Takano Shotaro , Sakuma Yoshihiro , Ohtori Seiji , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Takaso Masashi
Published: August 2016

We developed a new scaffold material—oriented collagen tubes (OCT)—and evaluated the potential of OCTs combined with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) to repair of a 15 mm sciatic nerve defect in rats. The treatment groups consisted of OCT with adsorbed bFGF (OCT/bFGF group), OCT in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) (OCT/PBS group), and a no‐treatment group (Defect group). Functional evaluation of nerve regeneration was performed using the CatWalk system, and histological analyses of the defect sites were also performed. In rats treated with either OCT/bFGF or OCT/PBS, the walking function parameter of max contact area returned to normal levels by 4 weeks after grafting, and the regeneration of myelinated fibers was detected after 8 weeks. However, more regenerated myelinated fibers were observed in the OCT/bFGF group compared with the OCT/PBS group at 4 weeks. In addition, the max contact area and swing speed in the OCT/bFGF group were significantly recovered compared to the OCT/PBS and Defect groups at 8 weeks. Although the combination of bFGF and OCT was superior to OCT alone for nerve regeneration and functional recovery, the present findings demonstrate that OCT alone or in combination with bFGF accelerates nerve repair in a large peripheral nerve defect in rats. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 8–14, 2017.
Rapid Screening for Deleted Form of β‐thalassemia by Real‐Time Quantitative PCR
Authors: Ke Liang‐Yin , Chang Jan‐Gowth , Chang Chao‐Sung , Hsieh Li‐Ling , Liu Ta‐Chih
Published: August 2016

Background

Thalassemia is the most common single gene disease in human beings. The prevalence rate of β‐thalassemia in Taiwan is approximately 1–3%. Previously methods to reveal and diagnose severe deleted form of α‐ or β‐thalassemia were insufficient and inappropriate for prenatal diagnosis.

Methods

A real‐time quantitative PCR method was set up for rapid screening of the deleted form of β‐thalassemia.

Results

Our results show that ΔΔCt between deleted form of β‐thalassemia and normal individuals were 1.0674 ± 0.0713. On the contrary, mutation form β‐thalassemia showed no difference with normal healthy control. The HBB/CCR5 ratio for deleted form of β‐thalassemia patients was 0.48, whether normal individuals and mutation form of β‐thalassemia was 1.0.

Conclusion

This RQ‐PCR technique is an alternative rapid screening assay for deleted form of β‐thalassemia. In addition, it could also identify undefined type. Our technique by using RQ‐PCR to quantify gene copies is a reliable and time‐saving method that can screen deleted form of β‐thalassemia.
Climatic features of the Red Sea from a regional assimilative model
Authors: Viswanadhapalli Yesubabu , Dasari Hari Prasad , Langodan Sabique , Challa Venkata Srinivas , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: August 2016

The Advanced Research version of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF‐ARW) model was used to generate a downscaled, 10‐km resolution regional climate dataset over the Red Sea and adjacent region. The model simulations are performed based on two, two‐way nested domains of 30‐ and 10‐km resolutions assimilating all conventional observations using a cyclic three‐dimensional variational approach over an initial 12‐h period. The improved initial conditions are then used to generate regional climate products for the following 24 h. We combined the resulting daily 24‐h datasets to construct a 15‐year Red Sea atmospheric downscaled product from 2000 to 2014. This 15‐year downscaled dataset is evaluated via comparisons with various in situ and gridded datasets. Our analysis indicates that the assimilated model successfully reproduced the spatial and temporal variability of temperature, wind, rainfall, relative humidity and sea level pressure over the Red Sea region. The model also efficiently simulated the seasonal and monthly variability of wind patterns, the Red Sea Convergence Zone and associated rainfall. Our results suggest that dynamical downscaling and assimilation of available observations improve the representation of regional atmospheric features over the Red Sea compared to global analysis data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction. We use the dataset to describe the atmospheric climatic conditions over the Red Sea region.
Magnetic porous carbon derived from a metal–organic framework as a magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbent for the extraction of sex hormones from water and human urine
Authors: Ma Ruiyang , Hao Lin , Wang Junmin , Wang Chun , Wu Qiuhua , Wang Zhi
Published: August 2016

An iron‐embedded porous carbon material (MIL‐53‐C) was fabricated by the direct carbonization of MIL‐53. The MIL‐53‐C possesses a high surface area and good magnetic behavior. The structure, morphology, magnetic property, and porosity of the MIL‐53‐C were studied by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, and N2 adsorption. With the use of MIL‐53‐C as the magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbent, a simple and efficient method was developed for the magnetic solid‐phase extraction of three hormones from water and human urine samples before high‐performance liquid chromatography with UV detection. The developed method exhibits a good linear response in the range of 0.02–100 ng/mL for water and 0.5–100 ng/mL for human urine samples, respectively. The limit of detection (S/N = 3) for the analytes was 0.005–0.01 ng/mL for water sample and 0.1–0.3 ng/mL for human urine sample. The limit of quantification (S/N = 10) of the analytes were in the range of 0.015–0.030 and 0.3–0.9 ng/mL, respectively.
Secondary Traumatization in Vietnam Veterans’ Families
Authors: Yager Thomas J. , Gerszberg Nicole , Dohrenwend Bruce P.
Published: August 2016

This research focused on secondary traumatization of wives and offspring of 115 male Vietnam veterans, a subsample from the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study who had one or more children aged 6 to 16 years and had had a clinical interview. Traumatization was defined as meeting criteria for lifetime war‐related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Secondary traumatization was operationalized by elevated scores on children's internalizing or externalizing behavior problems and on wives’ demoralization. There was evidence of secondary traumatization in the veterans’ sons (odds ratio [OR] = 20.31 for internalizing behavior problems). Current PTSD in the veterans was associated with demoralization in their wives or partners (β = 0.24), which in turn was associated with behavior problems in their daughters (ORs = 2.67 and 4.61 for internalizing and externalizing behavior problems, respectively; these were adjusted for veteran's PTSD). Demoralization of the wife or partner was also associated with current alcoholism in the veterans (β = 0.30, adjusting for veteran's PTSD). These associations were also adjusted for other veteran risk factors, including severity of combat exposure, involvement in harming civilians or prisoners, and prewar vulnerability. Even with the degree of secondary traumatization present, the veterans’ children appeared at least as healthy as counterparts in the general population.
A pH‐Sensitive Phospholipid Polymeric Prodrug Based on Branched Polyethylenimine for Intracellular Drug Delivery
Authors: Wang Haibo , Xiong Junjie , Liu Gongyan , Wang Yunbing
Published: August 2016

A biomimic pH‐sensitive polymeric prodrug based on branched polyethylenimine‐graft‐12‐acryloyloxy dodecyl phosphorylcholine and 6‐maleimidocaproyl‐doxorubicin is rationally designed and successfully synthesized. This polymeric prodrug can spontaneously self‐assemble into spherical nanostructures in aqueous solution. The in vitro drug release results imply that this polymeric prodrug can maintain stable in blood circulation while enhance drug release at endosomal acidic condition. Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry results demonstrate that the formed prodrug micelles can be internalized by cancer cells effectively. More importantly, this prodrug exhibits excellent cytotoxicity against Hela cells, indicating the pH‐sensitive polymeric prodrug micelles can potentially work as a promising platform for efficient cancer therapy.

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Sturm–Liouville properties for Atkinson's semi‐definite p‐Laplacian eigenvalue problems
Authors: Law C. K. , Wang Wan‐Zhen , Wang Wei‐Chuan
Published: August 2016

We define Atkinson's semi‐definite p‐Laplacian eigenvalue problems, which include the regular p‐Laplacian eigenvalue problems with L1 coefficient functions. Then we show that the Sturm oscillation theorem also holds for this eigenvalue problem.
Tics in the Pediatric Population: Pragmatic Management
Authors: Ganos Christos , Martino Davide , Pringsheim Tamara
Published: August 2016

Background

Primary tic disorders, notably Tourette syndrome, are very common movement disorders in childhood. However, the management of such patients still poses great therapeutic challenges to medical professionals.

Methods

Based on a synthesis of the available guidelines published in Europe, Canada, and the United States, coupled with more recent therapeutic developments, the authors provide a pragmatic guide to aid clinicians in deciding when and how to treat patients who have primary tic disorders.

Results

After a systematic assessment of tics and common neuropsychiatric comorbidities (primarily attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD] and obsessive‐compulsive disorder [OCD]), the first step in treatment is a comprehensive psychoeducation of patients and families that addresses the protean phenomenology of tics and associated behaviors, coping mechanisms, prognosis, and treatment options. When more active intervention beyond watchful monitoring is indicated, hierarchical evaluation of treatment targets (i.e., tics vs. comorbid behavioral symptoms) is crucial. Behavioral treatments for tics are restricted to older children and are not readily available to all centers, mainly due to the paucity of well‐trained therapists. Pharmacological treatments, such as antipsychotics for tics, stimulants and atomoxetine for ADHD, and α2A‐agonists for children with tics plus ADHD, represent widely available and effective treatment options, but safety monitoring must be provided. Combined polypharmacological and behavioral/pharmacological approaches, as well as neuromodulation strategies, remain under‐investigated in this population of patients.

Conclusions

The treatment of children with tics and Tourette syndrome is multifaceted. Multidisciplinary teams with expertise in neurology, psychiatry, psychology, and pediatrics may be helpful to address the complex needs of these children.
On Fourier series for higher order (partial) derivatives of functions
Authors: Sun Weiming , Zhang Zimao
Published: August 2016

This paper is focused on higher order differentiation of Fourier series of functions. By means of Stokes's transformation, the recursion relations between the Fourier coefficients in Fourier series of different order (partial) derivatives of the functions as well as the general formulas for Fourier series of higher order (partial) derivatives of the functions are acquired. And then, the sufficient conditions for term‐by‐term differentiation of Fourier series of the functions are presented. These findings are subsequently used to reinvestigate the Fourier series methods for linear elasto‐dynamical systems. The results given in this paper on the constituent elements, together with their combinatorial modes and numbering, of the sets of coefficients concerning 2rth order linear differential equation with constant coefficients are found to be different from the results deduced by Chaudhuri back in 2002. And it is also shown that the displacement solution proposed by Li in 2009 is valid only when the second order mixed partial derivative of the displacement vanishes at all of the four corners of the rectangular plate. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anionic Polymerizable Surfactants and Stabilizers in Emulsion Polymerization: A Comparative Study
Authors: Aguirreurreta Ziortza , de la Cal José C. , Leiza Jose R.
Published: August 2016

The feasibility of using commercially available anionic polymerizable surfactants (LatemulPD‐104 and SipomerPam‐200) and anionic polymerizable stabilizer (SipomerCops‐1) in the batch emulsion copolymerization of model acrylic latexes is studied. The effect of both surfactant type and surfactant concentration on the number of polymer particles and molecular weights is investigated. LatemulPD‐104 behaves as the conventional surfactant Dowfax2A1 and the dependence of the number of particles upon surfactant concentration is similar for both surfactants. However, when SipomerPam‐200 is used a higher dependence is observed, probably due to a substantial contribution of homogeneous nucleation. When the stabilizer SipomerCops‐1 is used polymer particles are only formed by homogeneous nucleation. The molecular weights of the final latexes are affected by the surfactant type and concentration used in the polymerization, and unexpectedly, gel is formed when SipomerPam‐200 is used.

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General method for simulating laboratory tests with constitutive models for geomechanics
Authors: Janda Tomáš , Mašín David
Published: August 2016

The paper describes an approach to the simulation of arbitrary laboratory tests with homogeneous stress and strain fields applicable to most constitutive models common in geomechanics. The method by Bardet and Choucair [Int. J. Numer. Anal. Meth. Geomech. 15(1):1–19, 1991] is generalized for an arbitrary number of controlling and controlled variables. The approach is illustrated for time‐dependent thermo–hydro–mechanical constitutive models. The purpose of the method is to define an endless variety of different laboratory tests declaratively by means of two matrices E and S, which define the constraints on the controlled quantities such as stress, strains, suction, or temperature. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI using isobutene as a new quenching gas
Authors: Hodono Shota , Imai Hirohiko , Yamauchi Yukiko , Kawamura Ayano , Matsumoto Hironobu , Okumura Shintaro , Fujiwara Hideaki , Kimura Atsuomi
Published: August 2016

The use of a quenching gas, isobutene, with a low vapor pressure was investigated to enhance the utility of hyperpolarized 129Xe (HP Xe) MRI. Xenon mixed with isobutene was hyperpolarized using a home‐built apparatus for continuously producing HP Xe. The isobutene was then readily liquefied and separated almost totally by continuous condensation at about 173 K, because the vapor pressure of isobutene (0.247 kPa) is much lower than that of Xe (157 kPa). Finally, the neat Xe gas was continuously delivered to mice by spontaneous inhalation. The HP Xe MRI was enhanced twofold in polarization level and threefold in signal intensity when isobutene was adopted as the quenching gas instead of N2. The usefulness of the HP Xe MRI was verified by application to pulmonary functional imaging of spontaneously breathing mice, where the parameters of fractional ventilation (ra) and gas exchange (fD) were evaluated, aiming at future extension to preclinical studies. This is the first application of isobutene as a quenching gas for HP Xe MRI.
Preparation of dicyandiamide modified polystyrene resin beads decorated with nano‐Fe3O4 for removing Hg(II) from aqueous solution
Authors: Ma Ying‐Xia , Xing Dan , Lu Cui‐Ping , Du Xue‐Yan , La Pei‐Qing
Published: August 2016

In this study, dicyandiamide (DCDA) modified polystyrene (PS) resin beads decorated with nano‐Fe3O4 (Fe3O4‐PS‐DCDA hybrids) were prepared by co‐precipitation method. The Fe3O4‐PS‐DCDA hybrids were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform‐infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Meanwhile, the adsorption property of Fe3O4‐PS‐DCDA hybrids for Hg(II) in aqueous solution was investigated by batch methods. The results show that the nano‐Fe3O4 decorated on the outer surface and interior of DCDA modified PS resin beads (PS‐DCDA) is nanoparticles and nanorods, respectively. The saturation magnetization (Ms) of the Fe3O4‐PS‐DCDA hybrids is 0.70 emu/g, which is enough to ensure the convenient magnetic separation. The adsorption kinetics of the hybrids for Hg(II) accorded with the pseudo‐second‐order model and the adsorption isotherms followed the Freundlich equation. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2232–2240, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Development of a refill pattern method to measure polypharmacy in administrative claims databases
Authors: Liu Xinyue , Kubilis Paul , Bussing Regina , Winterstein Almut G
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purposes of the study were to develop a refill pattern method to identify polypharmacy in pharmacy billing records and to compare the method with traditional days' supply overlap algorithms.

Methods

This method is characterized by the assessment of prescription refill pattern. Concomitant therapy is assumed when two drugs are dispensed repeatedly during the active days' supply of each other. We tested the refill pattern method in a simplified scenario in which two drugs (methylphenidate/dexmethylphenidate and atomoxetine) for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were considered. Children who had at least one prescription of methylphenidate/dexmethylphenidate or atomoxetine in 2008 were included for the calculation of 2‐year prevalence of ADHD treatment polypharmacy. Results were compared with traditional method that requires a minimum overlap of 30, 60 or 90 days of filled prescriptions. We compared polypharmacy prevalence estimated by the two methods and explored reasons for disagreement.

Results

Among 131 385 children who had at least one prescription of methylphenidate/dexmethylphenidate or atomoxetine, the refill pattern method identified 4021 patients who had ADHD treatment polypharmacy (2‐year prevalence = 3.1%). This prevalence estimate fell between those from a 30‐ to 60‐day overlap method. The Cohen's kappa regarding determination of polypharmacy was 0.83, 0.92 and 0.80 considering 90‐, 60‐ and 30‐day overlap method, respectively.

Conclusions

The refill pattern method can be used as another way to measure polypharmacy in administrative claims databases and can be adapted to a wide variety of research questions, diseases and study populations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategies to improve usability and preserve accuracy in biological sequence databases
Authors: Bengtsson‐Palme Johan , Boulund Fredrik , Edström Robert , Feizi Amir , Johnning Anna , Jonsson Viktor A. , Karlsson Fredrik H. , Pal Chandan , Pereira Mariana Buongermino , Rehammar Anna , Sanchez José , Sanli Kemal , Thorell Kaisa
Published: August 2016

Biology is increasingly dependent on large‐scale analysis, such as proteomics, creating a requirement for efficient bioinformatics. Bioinformatic predictions of biological functions rely upon correctly annotated database sequences, and the presence of inaccurately annotated or otherwise poorly described sequences introduces noise and bias to biological analyses. Accurate annotations are, for example, pivotal for correct identification of polypeptide fragments. However, standards for how sequence databases are organized and presented are currently insufficient. Here, we propose five strategies to address fundamental issues in the annotation of sequence databases: (i) to clearly separate experimentally verified and unverified sequence entries; (ii) to enable a system for tracing the origins of annotations; (iii) to separate entries with high‐quality, informative annotation from less useful ones; (iv) to integrate automated quality‐control software whenever such tools exist; and (v) to facilitate postsubmission editing of annotations and metadata associated with sequences. We believe that implementation of these strategies, for example as requirements for publication of database papers, would enable biology to better take advantage of large‐scale data.
Miz1, a Novel Target of ING4, Can Drive Prostate Luminal Epithelial Cell Differentiation
Authors: Berger Penny L. , Winn Mary E. , Miranti Cindy K.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

How prostate epithelial cells differentiate and how dysregulation of this process contributes to prostate tumorigenesis remain unclear. We recently identified a Myc target and chromatin reader protein, ING4, as a necessary component of human prostate luminal epithelial cell differentiation, which is often lost in primary prostate tumors. Furthermore, loss of ING4 in the context of oncogenic mutations is required for prostate tumorigenesis. Identifying the gene targets of ING4 can provide insight into how its loss disrupts differentiation and leads to prostate cancer.

METHODS

Using a combination of RNA‐Seq, a best candidate approach, and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), we identified Miz1 as a new ING4 target. ING4 or Miz1 overexpression, shRNA knock‐down, and a Myc‐binding mutant were used in a human in vitro differentiation assay to assess the role of Miz1 in luminal cell differentiation.

RESULTS

ING4 directly binds the Miz1 promoter and is required to induce Miz1 mRNA and protein expression during luminal cell differentiation. Miz1 mRNA was not induced in shING4 expressing cells or tumorigenic cells in which ING4 is not expressed. Miz1 dependency on ING4 was unique to differentiating luminal cells; Miz1 mRNA expression was not induced in basal cells. Although Miz1 is a direct target of ING4, and its overexpression can drive luminal cell differentiation, Miz1 was not required for differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Miz1 is a newly identified ING4‐induced target gene which can drive prostate luminal epithelial cell differentiation although it is not absolutely required. Prostate 77:49–59, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and biological activity of FGLamide allatostatin analogs with Phe3 residue modifications
Authors: Xie Yong , Wang Meizi , Zhang Li , Wu Xiaoqing , Yang Xinling , Tobe Stephen S.
Published: August 2016

A FGLamide allatostatin neuropeptide mimic (H17) is a potential insect growth regulator which inhibits the production of juvenile hormone by the corpora allata. To find more evidence to reveal the structure–activity relationships of the Phe3 residue in the C‐terminal conserved pentapeptide and search for novel analogs with high activity, a series of Phe3 residue‐modified analogs were designed and synthesized using H17 as the lead compound. Bioassay using juvenile hormone (JH) production by corpora allata of the cockroach Diploptera punctata indicated that analogs 4, 11, and 13 showed strong ability to inhibit JH production in vitro, with IC50 of 38.5, 22.5, and 26 nM, respectively. As well, the activity of analog 2 (IC50: 89.5 nM) proved roughly equivalent to that of H17. Based on the primary structure–activity relationships of Phe3 residue, we suggest that for analogs containing six‐membered aromatic rings, removing the methylene group of Phe3 or an o‐halogen or p‐halogen‐substituted benzene ring could increase the ability to inhibit biosynthesis of JH. This study will be useful for the design of new allatostatin analogs for insect management. Copyright © 2016 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Total synthesis, structural, and biological evaluation of stylissatin A and related analogs
Authors: Shaheen Farzana , Jabeen Almas , Ashraf Samreen , Nadeem‐ul‐Haque Muhammad , Shah Zafar Ali , Ziaee Muhammad Asad , Dastagir Nida , Ganesan A.
Published: August 2016

The natural product cyclic peptide stylissatin A (1a) was reported to inhibit nitric oxide production in LPS‐stimulated murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. In the current study, solid‐phase total synthesis of stylissatin A was performed by using a safety‐catch linker and yielded the peptide with a trans‐Phe7‐Pro6 linkage, whereas the natural product is the cis rotamer at this position as evidenced by a marked difference in NMR chemical shifts. In order to preclude the possibility of 1b being an epimer of the natural product, we repeated the synthesis using d‐allo‐Ile in place of l‐Ile and a different site for macrocyclization. The resulting product (d‐allo‐Ile2)‐stylissatin A (1c) was also found to have the trans‐Phe7‐Pro6 peptide conformations like rotamer 1b. Applying the second route to the synthesis of stylissatin A itself, we obtained stylissatin A natural rotamer 1a accompanied by rotamer 1b as the major product. Rotamers 1a, 1b, and the epimer 1c were separable by HPLC, and 1a was found to match the natural product in structure and biological activity. Six related analogs 2–7 of stylissatin A were synthesized on Wang resin and characterized by spectral analysis. The natural product (1a), the rotamer (1b), and (d‐allo‐Ile2)‐stylissatin A (1c) exhibited significant inhibition of NO.. Further investigations were focused on 1b, which also inhibited proliferation of T‐cells and inflammatory cytokine IL‐2 production. The analogs 2–7 weakly inhibited NO. production, but strongly inhibited IL‐2 cytokine production compared with synthetic peptide 1b. All analogs inhibited the proliferation of T‐cells, with analog 7 having the strongest effect. In the analogs, the Pro6 residue was replaced by Glu/Ala, and the SAR indicates that the nature of this residue plays a role in the biological function of these peptides. Copyright © 2016 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Packaging Systems for Extended Shelf Life Milk
Authors: Bertolini Massimo , Bottani Eleonora , Vignali Giuseppe , Volpi Andrea
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study is to carry out a comparative analysis of the environmental impact of different packaging systems used for extended shelf life milk. The analysis, carried out exploiting the life cycle assessment approach, takes into account the packaging manufacturing process, the food packaging process, the transport phases and the end‐of‐life management of the different packaging systems. The packaging end‐of‐life is modelled by considering three possible options, such as recycling, thermo‐valorization with energy recovery and landfill. One litre of extended shelf life milk is used as the reference unit, while multilayer cartons, polyethylene terephthalate bottles labelled with shrink sleeve film and high‐density polyethylene bottles are analysed as the packaging types.

The key characteristics of each component of the three packaging systems were either provided by packaging manufacturers or derived from data available in literature. The evaluation of the end‐of‐life impact was performed considering the Italian scenario, exploiting, in particular, the data provided by specific Italian consortia. Other data for the inventory analysis phase were extrapolated from the SimaPro databases (e.g. Ecoinvent or Plastic Europe Database). Cumulative energy demand and CML2001 were adopted as the impact assessment methods.

The results obtained show that the multilayer carton system is the less environmentally impactful option for almost all the considered impact categories and that its environmental impacts are, on average, more than 12% lower than high‐density polyethylene system and more than 34% lower than polyethylene terephthalate with shrink sleeve label. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensor‐fault tolerance using robust MPC with set‐based state estimation and active fault isolation
Authors: Xu Feng , Olaru Sorin , Puig Vicenc , Ocampo‐Martinez Carlos , Niculescu Silviu‐Iulian
Published: August 2016

In this paper, a sensor fault‐tolerant control scheme using robust model predictive control (MPC) and set‐theoretic fault detection and isolation (FDI) is proposed. The robust MPC controller is used to control the plant in the presence of process disturbances and measurement noises while implementing a mechanism to tolerate faults. In the proposed scheme, fault detection (FD) is passive based on interval observers, while fault isolation (FI) is active by means of MPC and set manipulations. The basic idea is that for a healthy or faulty mode, one can construct the corresponding output set. The size and location of the output set can be manipulated by adjusting the size and center of the set of plant inputs. Furthermore, the inputs can be adjusted on‐line by changing the input‐constraint set of the MPC controller. In this way, one can design an input set able to separate all output sets corresponding to all considered healthy and faulty modes from each other. Consequently, all the considered healthy and faulty modes can be isolated after detecting a mode changing while preserving feasibility of MPC controller. As a case study, an electric circuit is used to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of multiple‐variable missing‐not‐at‐random survey data for child lead surveillance using NHANES
Authors: Roberts Eric M. , English Paul B.
Published: August 2016

Background

Although ongoing, multi‐topic surveys form the basis of public health surveillance in many countries, their utility for specific subject matter areas can be limited by high proportions of missing data. For example, the National Health and Examination Survey is the main resource for surveillance of elevated blood lead levels (EBLLs) in US children, but key predictor variables are missing for as many as 35% of respondents.

Methods

Using a Bayesian framework, we formulate a t‐distributed Heckman selection model applicable to the case of multiple missing‐not‐at‐random variables in the context of a complex survey design. We demonstrate the utility of the results by calculating prevalence estimates for lead levels exceeding 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 µg/dL among children 1 to 5 years of age for a variety of time points and geographies by applying the coefficients to data from the American Community Survey from the US Census.

Results

We present a protocol for estimating posterior distributions of parameters using Gibbs and grid sampling steps. Stark disparities in the prevalence of EBLL by race/ethnicity, age of housing, and poverty are readily quantified, and three‐ to five‐fold differences in predicted prevalence across geographies within the US are presented.

Conclusions

We are able to conduct multivariate analyses of EBLLs that incorporate the crucial variable age of housing, analyses that have not been previously available using these data. This represents an expansion of the utility of National Health and Examination Survey that is likely to be relevant to many similar ongoing, multi‐topic health surveillance efforts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduction of Manganese Dioxide by Dissolved Lithium in Liquid Ammonia for Li–Mn‐O Spinels
Authors: Xu Minwei , Zhang Yin , Que Wenxiu , Song Xiaoping , Zhou Chao , Yang Sen
Published: August 2016

Spinel‐structured Li‐Mn−O compounds are considered as alternative cathode materials for high‐power lithium ion batteries, which are the ideal power source for the electric vehicles in the near future. However, synthesizing Li‐Mn−O spinels with good cycle performance is a difficult task. In this work, the lithium‐ammonia solution is used to perform the reduction of manganese dioxide (MnO2), which demonstrates a new reaction process for preparing Li‐Mn−O spinels. The whole processes for the formation of Li‐Mn−O spinels are proposed and the Li1.12Mn1.88O4 spinel, as an example, is easily achieved via a simple annealing process. Galvanostatic charge/discharge results indicate that the resulting Li1.12Mn1.88O4 spinel exhibits both of high capacity (∼105 mAhg−1 at 1C) and good cycling stability (500 cycles), even at the elevated temperature (∼55 °C). The present reaction conditions are interesting, especially, for preparing Li‐contained compounds, which can be extended for other cathode materials.
Negative Absorption Peaks in Ultraviolet–Visible Spectrum of Water
Authors: Ji Yan , Ji Zhi , Yao Meihuan , Qian Ying , Peng Yufeng
Published: August 2016

Ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectra exhibit absorption that is under the base line, which we propose is negative absorption (NA) or negative absorption emission (NAE). The UV‐visible NAE of water, ethanol, and chloroform was illustrated by transmittance curves, reflectivity curves, and fluorescence excitation/emission spectra. To explain this phenomenon, the TD_DFT theory was used to calculate the emission states of the samples. A laser transmission experiment confirmed the NAE phenomenon. It was concluded that NAE was a type of emission produced by the sample. The NAE of water has significant implications for life on earth, which will interest researchers in physics, chemistry, and biology.
Crystal Structures of New Lanthanide Hydroxybenzoates and Different Roles of LMCT State in the Excitation Energy Transfer to Eu3+ Ions
Authors: Zhuravlev Konstantin P. , Tsaryuk Vera I. , Vologzhanina Anna V. , Gawryszewska Paula P. , Kudryashova Valentina A. , Klemenkova Zinaida S.
Published: August 2016

A series of europium and terbium hydroxybenzoates [Eu(2‐OH‐Benz)3(H2O)] (1), [Eu(3‐OH‐Benz)3(H2O)3]2⋅2H2O (2), TbNa3(2‐OH‐Benz)3⋅3H2O (3), [Tb2(3‐OH‐Benz)6(H2O)4]⋅2H2O⋅0.5(3‐OH‐HBenz) (4), [Tb(4‐OH‐Benz)3]⋅H2O (5) has been prepared and investigated using X‐ray diffraction and luminescence spectroscopy. Two methoxysalicylates Ln2(2‐OH‐5‐OCH3‐Benz)3⋅6H2O (Ln=Eu, Tb) are also under consideration. A dimeric crystal structure of 2 and polymeric structures of 4 and 5 were first determined by single crystal X‐ray analysis. Low‐energy ligand‐metal charge transfer (LMCT) states caused by a particular binding of the ligands with Ln3+ ion were identified in the europium compounds. Different roles of the LMCT states located under and above the lowest triplet state of the ligand in the excitation energy transfer in europium hydroxybenzoates are discussed. The lifetimes of 5D0 (Eu3+) and 5D4 (Tb3+) states at 77 K are consistent with the number of water molecules and other quenchers containing in the compounds. A qualitative correlation is observed between the luminescence brightness of hydroxybenzoates and an efficiency of nonradiative processes caused by the LMCT state and directly the multiphonon relaxation. Nonradiative processes due to the LMCT state are the most efficient at the location of this state lower the lowest triplet of 2‐hydroxybenzoate ligand in complex 1.