bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful Replication of GWAS Hits for Multiple Sclerosis in 10,000 Germans Using the Exome Array
Authors: Dankowski Theresa , Buck Dorothea , Andlauer Till F. M. , Antony Gisela , Bayas Antonios , Bechmann Lukas , Berthele Achim , Bettecken Thomas , Chan Andrew , Franke Andre , Gold Ralf , Graetz Christiane , Haas Jürgen , Hecker Michael , Herms Stefan , Infante‐Duarte Carmen , Jöckel Karl‐Heinz , Kieseier Bernd C. , Knier Benjamin , Knop Matthias , Kümpfel Tania , Lichtner Peter , Lieb Wolfgang , Lill Christina M. , Limmroth Volker , Linker Ralf A. , Loleit Verena , Meuth Sven G. , Moebus Susanne , Müller‐Myhsok Bertram , Nischwitz Sandra , Nöthen Markus M. , Paul Friedemann , Pütz Michael , Ruck Tobias , Salmen Anke , Stangel Martin , Stellmann Jan‐Patrick , Strauch Konstantin , Stürner Klarissa H. , Tackenberg Björn , Then Bergh Florian , Tumani Hayrettin , Waldenberger Melanie , Weber Frank , Wiendl Heinz , Wildemann Brigitte , Zettl Uwe K. , Ziemann Ulf , Zipp Frauke , Hemmer Bernhard , Ziegler Andreas ,   on behalf of the German Competence Network for Multiple Sclerosis (KKNMS)
Published: October 2015

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) successfully identified various chromosomal regions to be associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). The primary aim of this study was to replicate reported associations from GWAS using an exome array in a large German study. German MS cases (n = 4,476) and German controls (n = 5,714) were genotyped using the Illumina HumanExome v1‐Chip. Genotype calling was performed with the Illumina Genome StudioTM Genotyping Module, followed by zCall. Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in seven regions outside the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region showed genome‐wide significant associations with MS (P values < 5 × 10−8). These associations have been reported previously. In addition, SNPs in three previously reported regions outside the HLA region yielded P values < 10−5. The effect of nine SNPs in the HLA region remained (P < 10−5) after adjustment for other significant SNPs in the HLA region. All of these findings have been reported before or are driven by known risk loci. In summary, findings from previous GWAS for MS could be successfully replicated. We conclude that the regions identified in previous GWAS are also associated in the German population. This reassures the need for detailed investigations of the functional mechanisms underlying the replicated associations.
Consideration Sets and Their Role in Modelling Doctor Recommendations About Contraceptives
Authors: Fiebig Denzil G. , Viney Rosalie , Knox Stephanie , Haas Marion , Street Deborah J. , Hole Arne R. , Weisberg Edith , Bateson Deborah
Published: October 2015

Decisions about prescribed contraception are typically the result of a consultation between a woman and her doctor. In order to better understand contraceptive choice within this environment, stated preference methods are utilized to ask doctors about what contraceptive options they would discuss with different types of women. The role of doctors is to confine their discussion to a subset of products that best match their patient. This subset of options forms the consideration set from which the ultimate recommendation is made. Given the existence of consideration sets we address the issue of how to model appropriately the ultimate recommendations. The estimated models enable us to characterize doctor recommendations and how they vary with patient attributes and to highlight where recommendations are clear and when they are uncertain. The results also indicate systematic variation in recommendations across different types of doctors, and in particular we observe that some doctors are reluctant to embrace new products and instead recommend those that are more familiar. Such effects are one possible explanation for the relatively low uptake of more cost effective longer acting reversible contraceptives and indicate that further education and training of doctors may be warranted. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Medical Malpractice Damage Caps and Provider Reimbursement
Authors: Friedson Andrew I.
Published: October 2015

A common state legislative maneuver to combat rising healthcare costs is to reform the tort system by implementing caps on noneconomic damages awardable in medical malpractice cases. Using the implementation of caps in several states and large database of private insurance claims, I estimate the effect of damage caps on the amount providers charge to insurance companies as well as the amount that insurance companies reimburse providers for medical services. The amount providers charge insurers is unresponsive to tort reform, but the amount that insurers reimburse providers decreases for some procedures. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DrugTargetInspector: An assistance tool for patient treatment stratification
Authors: Schneider Lara , Stöckel Daniel , Kehl Tim , Gerasch Andreas , Ludwig Nicole , Leidinger Petra , Huwer Hanno , Tenzer Stefan , Kohlbacher Oliver , Hildebrandt Andreas , Kaufmann Michael , Gessler Manfred , Keller Andreas , Meese Eckart , Graf Norbert , Lenhof Hans‐Peter
Published: October 2015

Cancer is a large class of diseases that are characterized by a common set of features, known as the Hallmarks of cancer. One of these hallmarks is the acquisition of genome instability and mutations. This, combined with high proliferation rates and failure of repair mechanisms, leads to clonal evolution as well as a high genotypic and phenotypic diversity within the tumor. As a consequence, treatment and therapy of malignant tumors is still a grand challenge. Moreover, under selective pressure, e.g., caused by chemotherapy, resistant subpopulations can emerge that then may lead to relapse. In order to minimize the risk of developing multidrug‐resistant tumor cell populations, optimal (combination) therapies have to be determined on the basis of an in‐depth characterization of the tumor's genetic and phenotypic makeup, a process that is an important aspect of stratified medicine and precision medicine. We present DrugTargetInspector (DTI), an interactive assistance tool for treatment stratification. DTI analyzes genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic datasets and provides information on deregulated drug targets, enriched biological pathways, and deregulated subnetworks, as well as mutations and their potential effects on putative drug targets and genes of interest. To demonstrate DTI's broad scope of applicability, we present case studies on several cancer types and different types of input ‐omics data. DTI's integrative approach allows users to characterize the tumor under investigation based on various ‐omics datasets and to elucidate putative treatment options based on clinical decision guidelines, but also proposing additional points of intervention that might be neglected otherwise. DTI can be freely accessed at http://dti.bioinf.uni‐sb.de.
Presence of starch enhances in vitro biodegradation and biocompatibility of a gentamicin delivery formulation
Authors: Balmayor Elizabeth R. , Baran Turker E. , Unger Marina , Marques Alexandra P. , Azevedo Helena S. , Reis Rui L.
Published: October 2015

The effect of α‐amylase degradation on the release of gentamicin from starch‐conjugated chitosan microparticles was investigated up to 60 days. Scanning electron microscopic observations showed an increase in the porosity and surface roughness of the microparticles as well as reduced diameters. This was confirmed by 67% weight loss of the microparticles in the presence of α‐amylase. Over time, a highly porous matrix was obtained leading to increased permeability and increased water uptake with possible diffusion of gentamicin. Indeed, a faster release of gentamicin was observed with α‐amylase. Starch‐conjugated chitosan particles are non‐toxic and highly biocompatible for an osteoblast (SaOs‐2) and fibroblast (L929) cell line as well as adipose‐derived stem cells. When differently produced starch‐conjugated chitosan particles were tested, their cytotoxic effect on SaOs‐2 cells was found to be dependent on the crosslinking agent and on the amount of starch used. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1610–1620, 2015.
Head‐To‐Head Assessment of Diagnostic Performance of Testosterone Immunoassays in Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Schüring Andreas N. , Nolte Stefan , Fobker Manfred , Kannenberg Frank , Nofer Jerzy‐Roch
Published: October 2015

Background

Determination of plasma testosterone is critical for the proper diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but the interpretation of biochemical tests is hampered by inadequate specificity and precision of available immunoassays. We here compared the diagnostic performance of three testosterone immunoassays (Advia Centaur, Immulite 2000 XPi, Cobas e411) in PCOS patients using receiver operator characteristics curve analysis.

Methods and Results

Plasma levels of testosterone, androstendione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, estradiol, progesterone, steroid hormone binding globulin, luteinizing hormone, and follicular stimulating hormone were determined in 188 patients with PCOS and 202 controls. Free testosterone (fT) levels and free androgen index (FAI) were calculated. Testosterone levels measured on Advia Centaur, Immulite 2000 XPi, and Cobas e411 showed clear linear relationship to each other. Testosterone measured with Advia Centaur showed discriminatory performance superior to Immulite 2000 XPi and Cobas e411. Calculation of fT or FAI improved the performance of Advia Centaur and Immulite 2000 XPi, which nevertheless performed better than Cobas e411. The performance of other parameters was inferior to that of testosterone, fT, and FAI.

Conclusion

Present study documents striking differences between testosterone immunoassays with respect to their capacity to identify PCOS patients and favors the use of calculated parameters reflecting active testosterone in plasma.
Vancomycin AUC24/MIC Ratio in Patients with Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Pneumonia
Authors: Ji Misuk , Kim Hyun‐Ki , Kim Soo‐Kyung , Lee Woochang , Sung Heungsup , Chun Sail , Kim Mi‐Na , Min Won‐Ki
Published: October 2015

Background

Vancomycin is the treatment of choice for serious methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. The area under the concentration–time curve from 0 to 24 hr (AUC24)/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ratio was recently introduced as a parameter for assessing clinical outcome by S. aureus. This study was purposed to apply the vancomycin AUC24/MIC in patients with MRSA pneumonia.

Methods

Forty‐seven patients with confirmed lower respiratory infection caused by MRSA during 2011 were enrolled. All patients were treated with vancomycin. Clinical characteristics and laboratory data were collected. AUC24/MIC values were calculated as previously reported and patients were divided into two groups based on the bacteriologic response, which was eradicated or not, and an AUC24/MIC value (above or below 400).

Results

MRSA infections were eradicated in 39 patients but 8 patients had persistent MSRA infection in the following cultures. The mean AUC24/MIC values and vancomycin concentrations were not statistically different between patients with and without MRSA eradication. All 13 patients with a vancomycin MIC of 2 mg/L had an AUC24/MIC below 400.

Conclusion

AUC24/MIC might not be a reliable indicator for assessing treatment response of vancomycin in MRSA pneumonia. Relationship between vancomycin AUC24/MIC and therapeutic outcome needs to undergo further studies, including sufficiently large sample size.
A Green, Solvent‐Free, Microwave‐Assisted, High‐Yielding YbCl3 Catalyzed Deprotection of THP/MOM/Ac/Ts Ethers of Chalcone Epoxide and 2′‐Aminochalcone and Their Sequel Cyclization
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Verma Nishant , Parveen Iram , Ahmed Naseem
Published: October 2015

Under microwave and solvent‐free conditions, YbCl3 efficiently catalyzed the deprotection of tetrahydropyran‐2‐yl, methoxymethyl (MOM), acetyl, and tosyl groups and sequel cyclization of chalcone epoxide to 2‐hydroxyindanone and 2′‐aminochalcone to aza‐flavanone. The reaction afforded the products in excellent yield (78–99%) at 850 W microwave heating within 1–5 min under eco‐friendly conditions. The merits of the presented protocol include high yield, use of microwave irradiation, solvent‐free condition, catalyst reusability, and no need for purification with column chromatography. The present method is very much milder but more advanced than those reported earlier.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole‐2(3H)‐thione and Azidomethanone Derivatives Based on Quinoline‐4‐carbohydrazide Derivatives
Authors: Mohamed Mansoura I. , Kandile Nadia G. , Zaky Howida T.
Published: October 2015

A new series compounds of quinoline derivatives were synthesized by reaction of 3‐(carboxymethyl)‐2‐arylquinoline‐4‐carboxylic acids 1a, 1b, 1c with different nucleophiles. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated on the basis of FTIR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR spectral data, GC/MS, and chemical analysis. Investigation of antimicrobial activity of all new compounds was evaluated using a broth dilution technique in terms of minimal inhibitory concentration count against four pathogenic bacteria and two pathogenic fungi. Most of the new compounds were significantly active against bacteria and fungi.
Right ventricular strain by MR quantitatively identifies regional dysfunction in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
Authors: Vigneault Davis M. , te Riele Anneline S.J.M. , James Cynthia A. , Zimmerman Stefan L. , Selwaness Mariana , Murray Brittney , Tichnell Crystal , Tee Michael , Noble J. Alison , Calkins Hugh , Tandri Harikrishna , Bluemke David A.
Published: October 2015

Background

Analysis of regional wall motion of the right ventricle (RV) is primarily qualitative with large interobserver variation in clinical practice. Thus, the purpose of this study was to use feature tracking to analyze regional wall motion abnormalities in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC).

Methods

We enrolled 110 subjects (39 overt ARVC [mutation+/phenotype+] (35.5%), 40 preclinical ARVC [mutation+/phenotype–] (36.3%), and 31 control subjects (28.2%)). Cine steady state free precession cardiac MR was performed with temporal resolution ≤40 ms in the horizontal long axis (HLA), axial, and short axis directions. Regional strain was analyzed using feature tracking software and reproducibility was assessed by means of intraclass correlation coefficient. Dunnett's test was used in univariate analysis for comparisons to control subjects; cumulative odds logistic regression was used for minimally and fully adjusted multivariate models.

Results

Strain was significantly impaired in overt ARVC compared with control subjects both globally (P < 0.01) and regionally (all segments of HLA view, P < 0.01). In the HLA view, regional reproducibility was excellent within (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.81) and moderate between (ICC = 0.62) observers. Using a threshold of –31% subtricuspid strain in the HLA view, the sensitivity and specificity for overt ARVC were 75.0% and 78.2%, respectively. In multivariable analysis involving all three groups, subtricuspid strain less than –31% (beta = 1.38; P = 0.014) and RV end diastolic volume index (beta = 0.06; P = 0.001) were significant predictors of disease presence.

Conclusion

RV strain can be reproducibly assessed with MR feature tracking, and regional strain is abnormal in overt ARVC compared with control subjects. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1132–1139.
Deep brain stimulation exacerbates hypokinetic dysarthria in a rat model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: King Nathaniel O. , Anderson Collin J. , Dorval Alan D.
Published: October 2015

Motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) follow the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) treats some parkinsonian symptoms, such as tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia, but may worsen certain medial motor symptoms, including hypokinetic dysarthria. The mechanisms by which DBS exacerbates dysarthria while improving other symptoms are unclear and difficult to study in human patients. This study proposes an animal model of DBS‐exacerbated dysarthria. We use the unilateral, 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) rat model of PD to test the hypothesis that DBS exacerbates quantifiable aspects of vocalization. Mating calls were recorded from sexually experienced male rats under healthy and parkinsonian conditions and during DBS of the subthalamic nucleus. Relative to healthy rats, parkinsonian animals made fewer calls with shorter and less complex vocalizations. In the parkinsonian rats, putatively therapeutic DBS further reduced call frequency, duration, and complexity. The individual utterances of parkinsonian rats spanned a greater bandwidth than those of healthy rats, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the vocal signal. This utterance bandwidth was further increased by DBS. We propose that the parkinsonism‐associated changes in call frequency, duration, complexity, and dynamic range combine to constitute a rat analog of parkinsonian dysarthria. Because DBS exacerbates the parkinsonism‐associated changes in each of these metrics, the subthalamic stimulated 6‐OHDA rat is a good model of DBS‐induced hypokinetic dysarthria in PD. This model will help researchers examine how DBS alleviates many motor symptoms of PD while exacerbating parkinsonian speech deficits that can greatly diminish patient quality of life. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An overview of ice storms and their impact in the United States
Authors: Degelia Samuel K. , Christian Jordan I. , Basara Jeffrey B. , Mitchell Trevor J. , Gardner Daniel F. , Jackson Sara E. , Ragland John C. , Mahan Hayden R.
Published: October 2015

Ice storms, defined by the US National Weather Service as freezing rain accumulations over 0.635 cm (0.25 inch), are often costly and destructive. Formation processes include the classic ‘melting’ process and supercooled warm rain process. Freezing rain is most commonly found ahead of a warm front or occlusion, where warm air is lifted over a cold shallow layer near the surface. Other synoptic patterns conducive to freezing rain include arctic fronts, isentropic lift over an arctic air mass, and cold air damming. Causes of spatial and temporal variations in freezing rain include, but are not limited to, terrain and proximity to water. Areas with the most occurrences of freezing rain in the United States include the Pacific Northwest, Upper Midwest, and Northeast/Appalachian regions. Empirical forecasting methods and numerical weather prediction are currently used to predict freezing rain. Successful forecasting of ice storm events requires evaluation of the thermodynamic profile of the atmosphere. Local effects such as proximity to water and topography must be taken into account, and non‐linear processes such as latent heating and cooling must not be ignored. Ice accumulation can cause tree damage, which, in addition to breakage of electrical cables, can lead to power outages. Deposition of ice also impacts road, rail, and air travel, with associated economic costs due to lost hours as workers are unable to travel. Ice storms also provide a significant risk to human health and life, with falling debris and slippery surfaces being primary threats.
Recent developments and applications of capillary and microchip electrophoresis in proteomic and peptidomic analyses
Authors: Štěpánová Sille , Kašička Václav
Published: October 2015

This review presents recent developments and applications of capillary and microchip electromigration methods in proteomics and peptidomics. Sample preparation methods as well as instrumental innovations in the coupling of these advanced electromigration methods with mass spectrometry detection employed in proteomic and peptidomic analyses are presented. Interesting applications of various capillary electromigration methods in bottom‐up as well as top‐down proteomics, including investigation of post‐translational modifications of proteins are described. In addition, several examples of the use of capillary electromigration methods combined with mass spectrometry detection in clinical proteomics and peptidomics are demonstrated.
A note on equivalence relations
Authors: Gao Su , Yin Zhi
Published: October 2015

We consider the equivalence relations on induced by the Banach subspaces . We show that if , then there is no Borel reduction from the equivalence relation , where X is a Banach space, to .
From Lignin‐derived Aromatic Compounds to Novel Biobased Polymers
Authors: Llevot Audrey , Grau Etienne , Carlotti Stéphane , Grelier Stéphane , Cramail Henri
Published: October 2015

Nowadays, the synthesis of (semi)aromatic polymers from lignin derivatives is of major interest, as aromatic compounds are key intermediates in the manufacture of polymers and lignin is the main source of aromatic biobased substrates. Phenols with a variety of chemical structures can be obtained from lignin deconstruction; among them, vanillin and ferulic acid are the main ones. Depending on the phenol substrates, different chemical modifications and polymerization pathways are developed, leading to (semi)aromatic polymers covering a wide range of thermomechanical properties. This review discusses the synthesis and properties of thermosets (vinyl ester resins, cyanate ester, epoxy, and benzoxazine resins) and thermoplastic polymers (polyesters, polyanhydrides, Schiff base polymers, polyacetals, polyoxalates, polycarbonates, acrylate polymers) prepared from vanillin, ferulic acid, guaiacol, syringaldehyde, or 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid.

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Large data solutions to the viscous quantum hydrodynamic model with barrier potential
Authors: Dreher Michael , Schnur Johannes
Published: October 2015

We discuss analytically the stationary viscous quantum hydrodynamic model including a barrier potential, which is a nonlinear system of partial differential equations of mixed order in the sense of Douglis–Nirenberg. Combining a reformulation by means of an adjusted Fermi level, a variational functional, and a fixed point problem, we prove the existence of a weak solution. There are no assumptions on the size of the given data or their variation. We also provide various estimates of the solution that are independent of the quantum parameters. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the approximate controllability for fractional evolution hemivariational inequalities
Authors: Li Yunxiang , Li Xiuwen , Liu Yiliang
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we focus on the approximate controllability of control systems described by a large class of fractional evolution hemivariational inequalities. Firstly, we introduce the concept of mild solutions and present the existence of mild solutions for this kind of problems. Next, we show the approximate controllability of the corresponding linear control system. Finally, the approximate controllability of the fractional evolution hemivariational inequalities is formulated and proved under some appropriate conditions. An example demonstrates the applicability of our results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global existence and uniqueness to the Cauchy problem of the BGK equation with infinite energy
Authors: Chen Zili , Zhang Xianwen
Published: October 2015

The Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook model of the Boltzmann equation is of great importance in the kinetic theory of rarefied gases. Various existence and uniqueness results have been built under the boundedness of energy. In this paper, we will establish several global existence results to the Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook equation with infinite energy. It heavily relies on a new moments lemma and a new existence and uniqueness theorem of weighted velocity‐spatial L∞ solutions. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A flexible nested sodium and proton coil array with wideband matching for knee cartilage MRI at 3T
Authors: Brown Ryan , Lakshmanan Karthik , Madelin Guillaume , Alon Leeor , Chang Gregory , Sodickson Daniel K. , Regatte Ravinder R. , Wiggins Graham C.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

We describe a 2 × 6 channel sodium/proton array for knee MRI at 3T. Multielement coil arrays are desirable because of well‐known signal‐to‐noise ratio advantages over volume and single‐element coils. However, low tissue–coil coupling that is characteristic of coils operating at low frequency can make the potential gains from a phased array difficult to realize.

Methods

The issue of low tissue–coil coupling in the developed six‐channel sodium receive array was addressed by implementing 1) a mechanically flexible former to minimize the coil‐to‐tissue distance and reduce the overall diameter of the array and 2) a wideband matching scheme that counteracts preamplifier noise degradation caused by coil coupling and a high‐quality factor. The sodium array was complemented with a nested proton array to enable standard MRI.

Results

The wideband matching scheme and tight‐fitting mechanical design contributed to >30% central signal‐to‐noise ratio gain on the sodium module over a mononuclear sodium birdcage coil, and the performance of the proton module was sufficient for clinical imaging.

Conclusion

We expect the strategies presented in this study to be generally relevant in high‐density receive arrays, particularly in x‐nuclei or small animal applications. Magn Reson Med 76:1325–1334, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic pricing in a dual‐market environment
Authors: Chen Wen , Fleischhacker Adam J. , Katehakis Michael N.
Published: October 2015

This article is concerned with the determination of pricing strategies for a firm that in each period of a finite horizon receives replenishment quantities of a single product which it sells in two markets, for example, a long‐distance market and an on‐site market. The key difference between the two markets is that the long‐distance market provides for a one period delay in demand fulfillment. In contrast, on‐site orders must be filled immediately as the customer is at the physical on‐site location. We model the demands in consecutive periods as independent random variables and their distributions depend on the item's price in accordance with two general stochastic demand functions: additive or multiplicative. The firm uses a single pool of inventory to fulfill demands from both markets. We investigate properties of the structure of the dynamic pricing strategy that maximizes the total expected discounted profit over the finite time horizon, under fixed or controlled replenishment conditions. Further, we provide conditions under which one market may be the preferred outlet to sale over the other. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 531–549, 2015
Understanding the in situ crosslinked gelatin hydrogel
Authors: Joy Jincy , Gupta Amlan , Jahnavi Sarvepalli , Verma Rama S , Ray Alok R , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: October 2015

The present study focuses on an in‐depth investigation at the molecular level of in situ crosslinked gelatin hydrogel by oxidized carboxymethylcellulose (OCMC), intended for biomedical purposes. The crosslinking parameters, namely the crosslinking temperature, crosslinking time and the amount of crosslinker, were varied. The surface and bulk properties were investigated to construct a representative model postulating the interaction of gelatin and OCMC encompassing their physical and covalent linking which determines the properties of the hydrogel. It was inferred that covalent crosslinking facilitates the interfacial interaction between gelatin and OCMC which beyond 30% OCMC composition is impeded due to depletion: microdomain formation leading to phase separation. This study might enable the fabrication of tunable hydrogel with crosslinking parameters in accordance with its purpose. The preliminary biocompatibility studies of the hydrogel conclude that the crosslinked hydrogel generates favourable conditions for cells to adhere and proliferate showing potential for biomedical purposes. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Soluble and transparent polyimides with high Tg from a new diamine containing tert‐butyl and fluorene units
Authors: Yi Lang , Li Congyan , Huang Wei , Yan Deyue
Published: October 2015

A novel diamine monomer 1, 4,4'‐(9H‐fluorene‐9,9‐diyl)‐bis(2‐tert‐butylaniline), was synthesized from 9‐fluorenone and 2‐tert‐butylaniline by the condensation reaction. Then it was polymerized with several commercial aromatic dianhydrides, respectively, to produce polyimides (PIs) by the one‐pot method. The number‐averaged molecular weights of the resulting PIs are in the range of (4.54–8.82) × 104 with polydispersity indices from 2.51 to 4.33 by gel permeation chromatography measurement. They are soluble in many organic solvents and can form transparent and tough films by solution‐casting. The cut‐off wavelengths of UV–vis absorption for the PI films are below 360 nm, which are much lower than that of Kapton film. The light transparency of them is above 90% in the visible light range from 400 to 760 nm. They also display relatively low dielectric constants (from 2.79 to 3.00), low water absorption rates (<1%), and high tensile strength (> 50 MPa). Their excellent solubility and transparency can be attributed to the incorporation of tert‐butyl groups and fluorene units into the rigid backbones of PIs. Simultaneously, they still maintain the high thermal stability (the 5% weight loss temperature in the range from 526 to 539 °C in nitrogen) and the high glass transition temperatures (Tg > 340 °C). © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 976–984
Lattice dynamics and thermoelectric properties of nanocrystalline silicon–germanium alloys
Authors: Claudio Tania , Stein Niklas , Petermann Nils , Stroppa Daniel G. , Koza Michael Marek , Wiggers Hartmut , Klobes Benedikt , Schierning Gabi , Hermann Raphaël P.
Published: October 2015

The lattice dynamics and thermoelectric properties of sintered phosphorus‐doped nanostructured silicon–germanium alloys obtained by gas‐phase synthesis were studied. Measurements of the density of phonon states by inelastic neutron scattering were combined with measurements of the elastic constants and the low‐temperature heat capacity. A strong influence of nanostructuring and alloying on the lattice dynamics was observed. The thermoelectric transport properties of samples with different doping as well as samples sintered at different temperature were characterized between room temperature and C. A peak figure of merit at C is observed and is comparatively insensitive to the aforementioned parameter variations.
From thermoelectric bulk to nanomaterials: Current progress for Bi2Te3 and CoSb3
Authors: Peranio N. , Eibl O. , Bäßler S. , Nielsch K. , Klobes B. , Hermann R. P. , Daniel M. , Albrecht M. , Görlitz H. , Pacheco V. , Bedoya‐Martínez N. , Hashibon A. , Elsässer C.
Published: October 2015

Bi2Te3 and CoSb3 based nanomaterials were synthesized and their thermoelectric, structural, and vibrational properties analyzed to assess and reduce ZT‐limiting mechanisms. The same preparation and/or characterization methods were applied in the different materials systems. Single‐crystalline, ternary p‐type Bi15Sb29Te56, and n‐type Bi38Te55Se7 nanowires with power factors comparable to nanostructured bulk materials were prepared by potential‐pulsed electrochemical deposition in a nanostructured Al2O3 matrix. p‐type Sb2Te3, n‐type Bi2Te3, and n‐type CoSb3 thin films were grown at room temperature using molecular beam epitaxy and were subsequently annealed at elevated temperatures. This yielded polycrystalline, single phase thin films with optimized charge carrier densities. In CoSb3 thin films the speed of sound could be reduced by filling the cage structure with Yb and alloying with Fe yielded p‐type material. Bi2(Te0.91Se0.09)3/SiC and (Bi0.26Sb0.74)2Te3/SiC nanocomposites with low thermal conductivities and ZT values larger than 1 were prepared by spark plasma sintering. Nanostructure, texture, chemical composition, as well as electronic and phononic excitations were investigated by X‐ray diffraction, nuclear resonance scattering, inelastic neutron scattering, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. For Bi2Te3 materials, ab‐initio calculations together with equilibrium and non‐equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations for point defects yielded their formation energies and their effect on lattice thermal conductivity, respectively.

Current advances in thermoelectric Bi2Te3 and CoSb3 based nanomaterials are summarized. Advanced synthesis and characterization methods and theoretical modeling were combined to assess and reduce ZT‐limiting mechanisms in these materials.
Comparative contributions of singlet and triplet excitons in the performance of organic devices
Authors: Singh Jai , Narayan Monishka R. , Ompong David
Published: October 2015

The properties of singlet and triplet excitons are compared in organic materials for applications in optoelectronic organic solar cells (OSCs) and organic light emitting devices (OLEDs). It is found that by managing the organic material designs both singlet and triplet excitons can be beneficially used in OSCs and OLEDs equally well. A model of dissociation of excitons excited in the acceptor material of the bulk heterojunction organic solar cells is presented. It is shown that the dissociation of acceptor excitons also can contribute to the photovoltaic performance of OSCs. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Synthesis, characterization and testing of Cr(III)‐doped aluminum oxide/molybdate nanocomposites as luminescent probes for scanning thermal microscopy
Authors: Hizhnyi Yu. , Nedilko S. , Chornii V. , Terebilenko K. , Slobodyanik N. , Aigouy L.
Published: October 2015

The conditions of synthesis and luminescence characteristics of composites Al2O3:Cr3+/NaAl(MoO4)2:Cr3+obtained from molybdate high‐temperature solutions have been studied. The composite formation has been achieved by rapid cooling of a Na‐Al‐Cr‐Mo‐O molten solution in the range of 1173‐820 K. The sizes of the alumina inclusions in the molybdate host range from sub‐microns to tenth of microns. The composite material is transparent for light in the visible spectral region, it allows effective excitation of the Cr3+ luminescence in Cr3+‐ related absorption bands in both NaAl(MoO4)2hosts and Al2O3inclusions. At liquid helium temperature, the Al2O3:Cr3+/NaAl(MoO4)2:Cr3+composite materials simultaneously reveal luminescence of Cr3+ ions in NaAl(MoO4)2(the R‐line near 741 nm) and in Al2O3(the R1 line near 693 nm). At room temperature, the Al2O3:Cr3+ inclusions reveal Cr3+‐related R1 and R2 lines at 694.2 and 692.8 nm, respectively, whereas the luminescence of Cr3+ ions in the molybdate host is quenched. Testing of Al2O3:Cr3+ fluorescent particles in a scanning thermal microscope reveals potential of using the Cr‐doped Al2O3:Cr/NaAl(MoO4)2 nanocomposites for high‐resolution mapping of the surface temperature in 300‐380 K temperature range. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Theoretical investigation of 2DEG concentration and mobility in the AlGaN/GaN heterostructures with various Al concentrations
Authors: Abgaryan Karine , Mutigullin Ilya , Reviznikov Dmitry
Published: October 2015

Three‐scale model for the calculation of 2DEG mobility in AlGaN/GaN heterostructures developed by our group earlier was used for the investigation of the dependence of 2DEG concentration and mobility on the Al concentration in AlGaN layer. The model allows to calculate following 2DEG properties: energy levels, corresponding wavefunctions, potential energy distribution, charge carriers concentration distribution over the heterostructure. It is also possible to calculate electron mobility in 2DEG taking into account various scattering mechanisms. In the framework of this model the values of 2DEG concentration and mobility were calculated for various Al concentrations x in AlxGa1‐xN barrier (0.15 ≤ x ≤ 1). It is also taken into consideration that maximum barrier width should decrease with increasing Al concentration in order to allow pseudomorphic growth of barrier layer. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Comparison of Different Classification Techniques to Determine the Change Causes in Hotelling'sT2Control Chart
Authors: Alfaro Esteban , Alfaro José Luis , Gámez Matías , García Noelia
Published: October 2015

To detect out‐of control situations using multivariate control charts is relatively easy. However, the determination of the change causes is more difficult. In the last years the application of classification techniques to analyze the out‐of‐control signals has been proposed. These proposals include increasingly sophisticated methods but it is not clear, if there is one, which is the most powerful. In this paper we have simulated different scenarios varying the correlation structure and shift type, to test the performance of Linear Discriminant Analysis, Classification Trees, Neural Networks and Boosting Trees with the main aim to analyze whether or not using more complex classification methods is worthy. Results show that although the performance of different methods depends on the correlation structure and the class of change, under the more feasible situations Boosting shows the best performance. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quasi‐ARX neural network based adaptive predictive control for nonlinear systems
Authors: Jami‘in Mohammad Abu , Hu Jinglu , Marhaban Mohd Hamiruce , Sutrisno Imam , Mariun Norman Bin
Published: October 2015

In this paper, a new switching mechanism is proposed based on the state of dynamic tracking error so that more information will be provided –not only the error but also a one up to pth differential error will be available as the switching variable. The switching index is based on the Lyapunov stability theory. Thus the switching mechanism can work more effectively and efficiently. A simplified quasi‐ARX neural‐network (QARXNN) model presented by a state‐dependent parameter estimation (SDPE) is used to derive the controller formulation to deal with its computational complexity. The switching works inside the model by utilizing the linear and nonlinear parts of an SDPE. First, a QARXNN is used as an estimator to estimate an SDPE. Second, by using SDPE, the state of dynamic tracking error is calculated to derive the switching index. Additionally, the switching formula can use an SDPE as the switching variable more easily. Finally, numerical simulations reveal that the proposed control gives satisfactory tracking and disturbance‐rejection performances. Experimental results demonstrate its effectiveness. © 2015 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Clinical implementation of routine screening for fetal trisomies in the UKNHS: cell‐free DNA test contingent on results from first‐trimester combined test
Authors: Gil M. M. , Revello R. , Poon L. C. , Akolekar R. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: October 2015

Objectives

Cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) analysis of maternal blood for detection of trisomies 21, 18 and 13 is superior to other methods of screening but is expensive. One strategy to maximize performance at reduced cost is to offer cfDNA testing contingent on the results of the first‐trimester combined test that is used currently. The objectives of this study were to report the feasibility of implementing such screening, to examine the factors affecting patient decisions concerning their options for screening and decisions on the management of affected pregnancies and to report the prenatal diagnosis of fetal trisomies and outcome of affected pregnancies following the introduction of contingent screening.

Methods

We examined routine clinical implementation of contingent screening in 11 692 singleton pregnancies in two National Health Service (NHS) hospitals in the UK. Women with a risk ≥ 1 in 100 (high‐risk group) were offered options of invasive testing, cfDNA testing or no further testing, and those with a risk between 1 in 101 and 1 in 2500 (intermediate‐risk group) were offered cfDNA testing or no further testing. The trisomic status of the pregnancies was determined by prenatal or postnatal karyotyping or by examination of the neonates.

Results

In the study population of 11 692 pregnancies, there were 47 cases of trisomy 21 and 28 of trisomies 18 or 13. Screening with the combined test followed by invasive testing for all patients in the high‐risk group potentially could have detected 87% of trisomy 21 and 93% of trisomies 18 or 13, at a false‐positive rate of 3.4%; the respective values for cfDNA testing in the high‐ and intermediate‐risk groups were 98%, 82% and 0.25%. However, in the high‐risk group, 38% of women chose invasive testing and 60% chose cfDNA testing; in the intermediate‐risk group 92% opted for cfDNA testing. A prenatal diagnosis was made in 43 (91.5%) pregnancies with trisomy 21 and all pregnancies with trisomies 18 or 13. In many affected pregnancies the parents chose to avoid testing or termination and 32% of pregnancies with trisomy 21 resulted in live births.

Conclusions

Screening for fetal trisomies by cfDNA analysis of maternal blood, contingent on the results of the combined test, can be implemented easily in routine clinical practice. In the high‐risk group from the combined test, most but not all women chose cfDNA testing rather than invasive testing. Performance of screening for trisomy 21 was superior by the cfDNA test than by the combined test. However, prenatal detection of trisomies and pregnancy outcome depend not only on performance of screening tests but also on parental choice. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Brain dopamine‐serotonin vesicular transport disease presenting as a severe infantile hypotonic parkinsonian disorder
Authors: Jacobsen Jessie C. , Wilson Callum , Cunningham Vicki , Glamuzina Emma , Prosser Debra O. , Love Donald R. , Burgess Trent , Taylor Juliet , Swan Brendan , Hill Rosamund , Robertson Stephen P. , Snell Russell G. , Lehnert Klaus
Published: October 2015

Two male siblings from a consanguineous union presented in early infancy with marked truncal hypotonia, a general paucity of movement, extrapyramidal signs and cognitive delay. By mid‐childhood they had made little developmental progress and remained severely hypotonic and bradykinetic. They developed epilepsy and had problems with autonomic dysfunction and oculogyric crises. They had a number of orthopaedic problems secondary to their hypotonia. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) neurotransmitters were initially normal, apart from mildly elevated 5‐hydroxyindolacetic acid, and the children did not respond favourably to a trial of levodopa‐carbidopa. The youngest died from respiratory complications at 10 years of age. Repeat CSF neurotransmitters in the older sibling at eight years of age showed slightly low homovanillic acid and 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid levels. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel mutation homozygous in both children in the monoamine transporter gene SLC18A2 (p.Pro237His), resulting in brain dopamine‐serotonin vesicular transport disease. This is the second family to be described with a mutation in this gene. Treatment with the dopamine agonist pramipexole in the surviving child resulted in mild improvements in alertness, communication, and eye movements. This case supports the identification of the causal mutation in the original case, expands the clinical phenotype of brain dopamine‐serotonin vesicular transport disease and confirms that pramipexole treatment may lead to symptomatic improvement in affected individuals.
How educational innovations and attention to competencies in postgraduate medical education relate to preparedness for practice: the key role of the learning environment
Authors: Dijkstra Ids S. , Pols Jan , Remmelts Pine , Rietzschel Eric F. , Cohen-Schotanus Janke , Brand Paul L.P.
Published: October 2015

Introduction Many training programmes in postgraduate medical education (PGME) have introduced competency frameworks, but the effects of this change on preparedness for practice are unknown. Therefore, we explored how elements of competency-based programmes in PGME (educational innovations, attention to competencies and learning environment) were related to perceived preparedness for practice among new consultants.

Methods A questionnaire was distributed among 330 new consultants. Respondents rated how well their PGME training programme prepared them for practice, the extent to which educational innovations (portfolio, Mini-CEX) were implemented, and how much attention was paid to CanMEDS competencies during feedback and coaching, and they answered questions on the learning environment and general self-efficacy. Multiple regression and mediation analyses were used to analyze data.

Results The response rate was 43 % (143/330). Controlling for self-efficacy and gender, the learning environment was the strongest predictor of preparedness for practice (B = 0.42, p < 0.001), followed by attention to competencies (B = 0.29, p < 0.01). Educational innovations were not directly related to preparedness for practice. The overall model explained 52 % of the variance in preparedness for practice. Attention to competencies mediated the relationship between educational innovations and preparedness for practice. This mediation became stronger at higher learning environment values.

Conclusions The learning environment plays a key role in determining the degree to which competency-based PGME prepares trainees for independent practice.
Worked examples in the classroom
Authors: Van Merrienboer Jeroen J.G.
Published: October 2015

None
Brief report: When does identity lead to negative affective experiences? A comparison of Turkish–Bulgarian and Turkish–German adolescents
Authors: Aydinli‐Karakulak Arzu , Dimitrova Radosveta
Published: October 2015

We examine relationships between social identity domains (ethnic, national, and religious) and negative affect among Turkish–Bulgarian and Turkish–German youth. Path analysis confirmed a multiple social identities (MSI) factor that has negative relations to experiencing negative affect for Turkish youth in both countries. Beyond this negative relationship, the component of national identity showed a positive relationship to negative affect for Turkish–Bulgarians, but not for Turkish–Germans. Our findings indicate that beyond the generally adaptive effect of MSI on youth development, unique components of social identity may not always be an asset: In an assimilative acculturation context (i.e., Bulgaria), the endorsement of national identity was not adaptive. Our research therefore highlights the need for a contextually differentiated view on “healthy” identity formation among immigrants for research and practice.