bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Aerobic Oxidation of 5‐(Hydroxymethyl)furfural to 5‐Formyl‐2‐furancarboxylic Acid in Water
Authors: Ventura Maria , Aresta Michele , Dibenedetto Angela
Published: April 2016

A simple, cheap, and selective catalyst based on copper/cerium oxides is described for the oxidation of 5‐(hydroxymethyl)furfural (5‐HMF) in water. An almost quantitative conversion (99 %) with excellent (90 %) selectivity towards the formation of 5‐formyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid, a platform molecule for other high value chemicals, is observed. The catalyst does not require any pretreatment or additives, such as bases, to obtain high yield and selectivity in water as solvent and using oxygen as oxidant. When a physical mixture of the oxides is used, low conversion and selectivity are observed. Air can be used instead of oxygen, but a lower conversion rate is observed if the same overall pressure is used, and the selectivity remains high. The catalyst can be recovered almost quantitatively and reused. Deactivation of the catalyst, observed in repeated runs, is due to the deposition of humins on its surface. Upon calcination the catalyst almost completely recovers its activity and selectivity, proving that the catalyst is robust.
The Effect of Functional Groups in Bio‐Derived Fuel Candidates
Authors: Jenkins Rhodri W. , Moore Cameron M. , Semelsberger Troy A. , Chuck Christopher J. , Gordon John C. , Sutton Andrew D.
Published: April 2016

Interest in developing renewable fuels is continuing to grow and biomass represents a viable source of renewable carbon with which to replace fossil‐based components in transportation fuels. During our own work, we noticed that chemists think in terms of functional groups whereas fuel engineers think in terms of physical fuel properties. In this Concept article, we discuss the effect of carbon and oxygen functional groups on potential fuel properties. This serves as a way of informing our own thinking and provides us with a basis with which to design and synthesize molecules from biomass that could provide useful transportation fuels.
Study finds high rates of food, housing insecurity among community college students
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2016

Fifty percent of all community college students in the nation are struggling with food and/or housing insecurity. That's according to a new study released by the Wisconsin HOPE Lab and in partnership with the Healthy Minds Study, the Association of Community College Trustees, and Single Stop.
Be ready for a presidential search
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2016

“One of the things I love about being president is the chance to visit with students,” said Benjamin Akande. He became president of Westminster College in Missouri last July. He holds open office hours every Thursday. “Students come and talk to me about everything.”
Efficacy and safety of dulaglutide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: a comprehensive review of the dulaglutide clinical data focusing on the AWARD phase 3 clinical trial program
Authors: Jendle Johan , Grunberger George , Blevins Thomas , Giorgino Francesco , Hietpas Ryan T. , Botros Fady T.
Published: April 2016

Dulaglutide (DU) is a once weekly glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1 RA) approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Glycaemic efficacy and safety characteristics of dulaglutide have been assessed in six Phase 3 studies in the AWARD program. The objective of this review article is to summarize these results from the six completed AWARD studies. At the primary endpoint, in five of the six studies, once weekly dulaglutide 1.5 mg was superior to the active comparator [exenatide, insulin glargine (two studies), metformin, and sitagliptin], with a greater proportion of patients reaching glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) targets of <7.0% (53.0 mmol/mol) and ≤6.5% (47.5 mmol/mol). Dulaglutide 1.5 mg was non‐inferior to liraglutide in AWARD‐6. Once weekly dulaglutide 0.75 mg was evaluated in five of these trials and demonstrated superiority to the active comparator in four of five AWARD studies (exenatide, glargine, metformin, and sitagliptin), and non‐inferiority to glargine in the AWARD‐2 study. Similar to other GLP‐1 receptor agonists, treatment with dulaglutide was associated with weight loss or attenuation of weight gain and low rates of hypoglycaemia when used alone or with non‐insulin‐secretagogue therapy. The most frequently reported adverse events were gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The incidence of dulaglutide antidrug antibody formation was 1–2.8% with rare injection site reactions. In conclusion, dulaglutide is an effective treatment for T2DM and has an acceptable tolerability and safety profile. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mitraclip therapy in patients with functional mitral regurgitation and missing leaflet coaptation: is it still an exclusion criterion?
Authors: Adamo Marianna , Chiari Ermanna , Curello Salvatore , Maiandi Cristian , Chizzola Giuliano , Fiorina Claudia , Frontini Mario , Cuminetti Giovanni , Pezzotti Elena , Rovetta Riccardo , Lombardi Carlo Mario , Manzato Aldo , Metra Marco , Ettori Federica
Published: April 2016

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of Mitraclip therapy in patients with functional mitral regurgitation (MR) and missing leaflet coaptation (MLC).

Methods and results

Out of 62 consecutive patients with functional MR undergoing Mitraclip implantation, 22 had MLC defined as the presence of a ‘gap’ between two mitral leaflets or insufficient coaptation length (<2 mm), according to the EVEREST II criterion. Compared with the control group, the MLC population had a significantly higher effective regurgitant orifice area (0.67 ± 0.31 vs. 0.41 ± 0.13 cm2; P = 0.019) and sphericity index (0.80 ± 0.11 vs. 0.71 ± 0.10; P = 0.003). MLC patients were treated with pharmacological/mechanical support in order to improve leaflet coaptation and to prepare the mitral valve apparatus for grasping. Implantation of >1 clip and device time were comparable in patients with and without MLC (61.9% vs. 47.5%; P = 0.284 and 101 ± 39 vs. 108 ± 69 min; P = 0.646, respectively). No significant differences were observed between the two cohorts in technical success (95.5% vs. 97.5%, P = 0.667), 30‐day device success (85.7% vs. 78.9%; P = 0.525), procedural success (81.8% vs. 75%; P = 0.842), and 1‐year patient success (52.9% vs. 44.1%; P = 0.261), defined according to the MVARC (Mitral Valve Academic Research Consortium) criteria. The long‐term composite endpoint of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization was similar in the two groups (49.9% vs. 44.4%; P = 0.348). A significant improvement of MR and NYHA functional class and a lack of reverse remodelling were observed up to 2 years in both arms.

Conclusion

The Mitraclip procedure could be extended to patients with functional MR who do not fulfil the coaptation length EVEREST II criterion and who would otherwise be excluded from this treatment.
A cytogenetic study of R. constantinopolitanus and R. sericeus (Ranunculaceae) in Iran
Authors: Rastipisheh Sareh , Nemati Somayeh , Pakravan Maneezheh , Tavassoli Akhtar , Bolourian Saman
Published: April 2016

With 600 species Ranunculus is the largest genus in Ranunculaceae, and has a broad global distribution. We studied the karyotypes of R. constantinopolitanus and R. sericeus species of Ranunculaceae and identified their symmetry level. New chromosome numbers of 2n = 21 (Nodeh woods population) and 2n ca. 63 (Javaherdeh population) are reported for R. constantinopolitanus. Two different populations of R. sericeus had two different chromosome results. We investigated morphological and karyological studies along with pollens micromorphology. Different populations of R. constantinopolitanus and R. sericeus, with different chromosome numbers showed morphological and micromorphological differences. Therefore, we considered the two populations of R. sericeus as cytotypes. There was a correlation between the studied morphological characters and pollen size with ploidy levels in the two R. constantinopolitanus populations.
History of moisture change derived from slope sediments of the eastern Gonghe Basin (northeastern Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau) during the last 17 ka
Authors: Liu Bing , Jin Heling , Sun Liangying , Su Zhizhu , Zhang Caixia , Zhao Shuang
Published: April 2016

The palaeosol–loess–aeolian sand sequence in the eastern Gonghe Basin, which is located at the convergence of the Asian summer monsoon, winter monsoon and the westerlies, reveals detailed moisture changes in the northeastern Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau (NETP) during the last 17 ka. Analysis of magnetic susceptibility (MS), total organic carbon, carbonate content, grain size and geochemical parameters indicate that the region was dominated by an extremely dry climate during ~17.0–15.82 ka, accompanying large‐scale desert expansion in the last glacial maximum (LGM). Subsequently, the climate became generally dry during 15.82–14.6 ka, an interval in which loess rapidly accumulated. Enhanced humidity occurred at 14.6 ka, probably associated with increased strength of the East Asian summer monsoon. The region experienced slightly decreased moisture at around 6.5 and 5.8 ka. After 2.7 ka, the climate became wetter. This interpretation correlates with climatic records from lacustrine and aeolian deposits in the NETP during the LGM, the last deglaciation and the early–middle Holocene. High climatic moisture in the Late Holocene facilitated the formation of a well‐developed palaeosol in the NETP. The effective moisture change in the Gonghe Basin is not simply ascribed to the influences of Asian summer monsoons; instead, it was possibly influenced by the interaction of evaporation and monsoonal precipitation forced by solar insolation variation. The balance between these variables was very influential on the effective moisture change in the closed inland basin of the NETP. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of the inflammatory potential of implant materials in a mouse model by bioluminescent imaging of intravenously injected bone marrow cells
Authors: Rais Bushra , Köster Mario , Rahim Muhammad Imran , Pils Marina , Seitz Jan‐Marten , Hauser Hansjörg , Wirth Dagmar , Mueller Peter P.
Published: April 2016

To evaluate the inflammatory potential of implants a bioluminescent imaging assay was developed using luciferase‐expressing bone marrow cells that were injected into the blood circulation of wild‐type mice. After subcutaneous implantation of titanium discs as an example for a clinically established biocompatible material, the luminosity was modest. Similarly, low luminosity signals were generated by pure magnesium implants that were used to represent metallic alloys that are presently under investigation as novel degradable implant materials. Increased luminosity was observed in response to degradable polymeric PLGA implants. Surgical wounds induced a basic luminescent response even in the absence of an implant. However, the material‐independent response to injury could be minimized using injectable microparticle suspensions. In parallel with the resorption of biodegradable microparticles, the signal induced by PLGA declined faster when compared to non‐degradable polystyrene suspensions. By using an interferon type I inducible Mx2 promoter construct to drive luciferase gene expression, the highest luminosity was observed in response to bacteria, indicating that the system could also be employed to monitor implant infections. Overall, labeled bone marrow cells yielded specific, well‐defined localized signals that correlated with the inflammatory responses to implants. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 2149–2158, 2016.
A Young Woman With Recurrent Gestational Hypercalcemia and Acute Pancreatitis Caused by CYP24A1 Deficiency
Authors: Woods Gina N , Saitman Alec , Gao Hanlin , Clarke Nigel J , Fitzgerald Robert L , Chi Nai-Wen
Published: April 2016

The CYP24A1 gene encodes a mitochondrial 24-hydroxylase that inactivates 1,25(OH)2D. Loss-of-function mutations in CYP24A1 cause hypercalcemia, nephrolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis. We describe a woman with CYP24A1 deficiency and recurrent gestational hypercalcemia. Her first pregnancy, at age 20, resulted with the intrauterine demise of twin fetuses. Postpartum, she developed severe hypercalcemia (14 mg/dL), altered mental status, and acute pancreatitis. Her PTH was suppressed (6 pg/mL) and her 1,25(OH)2D was elevated (165 and 195 pg/mL on postpartum day 1 and 5, respectively). Between one and three months postpartum, her serum calcium decreased from 11.4 to 10.2 mg/dL while her 1,25(OH)2D level decreased from 83 to 24 pg/mL. Her 24-hour urine calcium was 277 mg. Six months postpartum, she became pregnant again. At 14 weeks, her albumin-corrected calcium level was 10.4 mg/dL and her 1,25(OH)2D level exceeded 200 pg/mL. To establish the diagnosis of CYP24A1 deficiency, we showed her 24,25(OH)2D level to be undetectable (<2 ng/mL). Exon sequencing of the CYP24A1 gene revealed a homozygous, 8-nucleotide deletion in exon 8, causing an S334V substitution and premature termination due to a frame shift (c.999_1006del, p.Ser334Valfs*9). To prevent hypercalcemia, she was advised to discontinue prenatal vitamins, avoid sun exposure and calcium-rich foods, and start omeprazole and a calcium binder (250 mg K-Phos-neutral with meals). Despite these measures, both hypercalcemia (11.5 mg/dL) and acute pancreatitis recurred. Labor was induced and a healthy, normocalcemic boy was delivered. In the absence of lactation, maternal hypercalcemia resolved within 2 months. This report shows that CYP24A1-deficient subjects may be normocalcemic at baseline. Hypercalcemia may be unmasked by pregnancy through the routine use of calciferol-containing prenatal vitamins, increased 1-alpha hydroxylation of VitD by the placenta and maternal kidney, and production of PTHrP by the uteroplacental unit. CYP24A1 deficiency should be considered in patients with unexplained vitamin D-mediated hypercalcemia. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Androgen Control in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Pelekanou Vasiliki , Castanas Elias
Published: April 2016

Research on prostate cancer has extensively advanced in the past decade, through an improved understanding for its genetic basis and risk‐stratification. Molecular classification of prostate cancer into distinct subtypes and the recognition of new histologic entities promise the development of tailored‐made management strategies of patients. Nowadays, various alternatives are available for clinical management of localized disease ranging from observation alone through radical prostatectomy. In patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer, the approval of new drugs for the management of metastatic disease has offered promising results improving the survival of these patients. In this context, androgen receptors (AR) remain at the epicenter of prostate cancer research holding a prominent role in the biology and therapeutic regimens of prostate cancer. As many of castration‐resistant tumors retain hormone‐responsiveness, AR is a clinical relevant, druggable target. However, AR paradoxically remains neglected as a prostate cancer biomarker. The great advancements in prostate cancer preclinical and clinical research, imply further improvement in clinical and translational data, for patient selection and treatment optimization. For a precision medicine‐guided clinical management of prostate cancer, AR evaluation has to be implemented in companion and complementary diagnostics, as discussed here. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 2224–2234, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Some Novel Quinoline, Chromene, Pyrazole Derivatives Bearing Triazolopyrimidine Moiety
Authors: Abu‐Hashem A. A. , Gouda M. A.
Published: April 2016

7‐Amino‐3‐phenyl‐[1,2,4]triazolo [4,3‐a] pyrimidin‐5(1H)‐one (5) was utilized as key intermediate for the synthesis of some new, quinolines 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 18, 19, 20, acrylonitrile 25 and 28, coumarin 26, and pyrazoles 31, 32, 33, 34 incorporating triazolopyrimidines. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, and mass spectral data. Representative compounds of the synthesized products were tested and evaluated as antimicrobial. Compounds 25, 28, 31, 32, 33, and 34 are the most promising.
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid regulates MMP13 expression in chondrocytes via DUSP10/MKP5
Authors: Furuta Junya , Ariyoshi Wataru , Okinaga Toshinori , Takeuchi Jun , Mitsugi Sho , Tominaga Kazuhiro , Nishihara Tatsuji
Published: April 2016

To determine the effect of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HA) on matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) expression induced by tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in chondrocytes. Human chondrocytic C28/I2 cells were incubated with TNF‐α and HA. In some experiments, the cells were pre‐incubated with a CD44 function‐blocking monoclonal antibody (CD44 mAb) prior to addition of TNF‐α and HA. The expression of MMP13 was determined by real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, while the phosphorylation of signaling molecules was measured by western blot analysis. The transcriptional activity of activator protein 1 (AP‐1) was analyzed by a reporter assay. To further clarify the molecular mechanisms of HA in MMP13 regulation, the expression level of dual‐specificity protein phosphatase 10 (DUSP10)/mitogen‐activated protein kinases phosphatase 5 (MKP5) in HA‐treated chondrocytes was assessed by real‐time RT‐PCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence microscopy. HA decreased MMP13 mRNA and protein expression induced by TNF‐α. Blockage of HA‐CD44 binding by CD44 mAb suppressed HA‐mediated inhibition of MMP13. HA inhibited transient phosphorylation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c‐jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) induced by TNF‐α. Reporter assay findings also revealed that pre‐treatment with HA inhibited the transcriptional activity of AP‐1 mediated by TNF‐α. Moreover, HA induced the expression of DUSP10/MKP5, a negative regulator of p38 MAPK and JNK pathways. These results indicate that HA‐CD44 interactions downregulate TNF‐α‐induced MMP13 expression via regulation of DUSP10/MKP5, suggesting that HA plays an important role as a regulatory factor in cartilage degradation. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:331–339, 2017.
Histological characteristics of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis
Authors: Kuperus Jonneke S. , Westerveld L. Anneloes , Rutges Joost P. H. J. , Alblas Jacqueline , van Rijen Mattie H. P. , Bleys Ronald L. A. W. , Öner F. Cumhur , Verlaan Jorrit‐Jan
Published: April 2016

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a predominantly radiographic diagnosis and histological knowledge of DISH is limited. The aim of this study was to describe the histological characteristics of DISH in the spinal column and to study the relation between DISH and intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Therefore, 10 human cadaveric spines with fluoroscopic evidence of DISH were compared with 10 controls. Plain radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans were obtained and tissue blocks were resected from three predefined levels of all specimens. The microscopic sections were scored by two blinded observers using a newly developed scoring system specific for characteristics of DISH and a validated scoring system for IVD degeneration. Maximum IVD height was measured on the CT scans. Analyses were performed using Fisher's exact test and Student's t‐test. When compared to controls, the right sided sections from DISH specimens showed partial or complete bone bridges, consisting of cortical woven bone, accompanied by morphological changes in the adjoining part of the IVD. Using the histological scoring system for DISH, all parameters were significantly different between the DISH and control group (p < 0.01). The contralateral location did not show differences between the groups. The overall degree of IVD degeneration and height of IVD was comparable for the two groups. The histopathological changes observed in spines with DISH corresponded to the fluoroscopic images and CT scans. The degree of IVD degeneration and IVD height was comparable for both groups, suggesting a limited role for IVD degeneration in the pathogenesis of DISH. © 2016 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:140–146, 2017.
Raman mode‐selective spectroscopic imaging of coenzyme and enzyme redox states
Authors: Gu Min , Lu H. Peter
Published: April 2016

We investigate the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectra of flavin monoucleotide (FMN) in its different redox states and in a redox active enzyme, nitric oxide synthase. Incubated with silver nanoparticles coated with silica, spectra for oxidized and reduced FMN are obtained at different electrochemical potentials. Dominate Raman mode shifts at 1623/1610, 1567/1550, and 1502/1492 cm−1, belonging to typical redox‐sensitive region of FMN, are observed and analyzed, and they show a consistence with the results of spectral calculation by using the density function theory (DFT) method. We assign mode at 1500 cm−1, composed of N5―H bending, N1C10a stretching and the asymmetric C4a―N5―C5a stretching, as a spectroscopic indicator for the redox states of FMN, because it shows a significant downshift (1502/1492 cm−1) and non‐linearly correction with potentials when FMN gets reduced from its full oxidized state electrochemically. Isolated FMN domain from a wild type neuronal nitric oxide synthase enzyme (nNOS) is also studied with the same experimental approach. We have observed similar Raman mode down‐shifting as that of the pure FMN, which further supports our conclusion that the mode at ~1500 cm−1 indicates redox states for FMN, the coenzyme of nNOS, even in redox protein matrix. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reflective LCD with high reflectance and color reproducibility for reduced eye strain
Authors: Kubota Daisuke , Niikura Yasuhiro , Hatsumi Ryo , Hirakata Yoshiharu , Miyake Hiroyuki , Yamazaki Shunpei , Chubachi Yuka , Katayama Masahiro
Published: April 2016

We fabricated a prototype of a 434‐ppi 5.9‐in reflective liquid crystal display for use as an e‐book reader. With high‐level optical characteristics with a reflectance of 28.7% and an NTSC ratio of 37%, we achieved eye‐friendly reflective liquid crystal display.
Afforestation Drives Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Changes in China
Authors: Deng Lei , Shangguan Zhou‐ping
Published: April 2016

Afforestation has been proposed as an effective method of carbon (C) sequestration; however, the magnitude and direction of soil C and nitrogen (N) dynamics following afforestation are not well understood. This study was designed to examine soil C and N dynamics following afforestation and to determine how various factors affect soil organic C (SOC) and total N (TN) after land‐use conversions through the compilation and analysis of published data from 61 individual studies (512 observations at 61 sites in China). This analysis showed that for different previous land uses, post‐afforestation SOC, TN, and C/N ratio varied in diverse temporal patterns. The relationship of soil C–N coupling was related to land use prior to afforestation and forest age. At 0–100 cm soil depths, SOC and TN increased at rates about 0·23 and 0·03 g kg−1 y−1, respectively, and the C/N ratio was about 0·19 y−1. SOC and TN were significantly affected by tree species, forest age, and soil depth. SOC, TN, and C/N were negatively correlated with soil bulk density (p < 0·01) and pH (p > 0·05) but positively correlated with soil total phosphorus (p < 0·01), soil moisture (p < 0·01) and soil microbial biomass C (p < 0·01) and N (p < 0·01). Additionally, SOC and TN were higher for the mid‐level humidity index in China and were also determined by precipitation, temperature, and forest age. These results highlight the importance of previous land use, tree species, soil depth, and forest age in determining soil C and N changes in a range of environments and land‐use transitions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of femtosecond laser capsulotomy between mature and non‐mature cataracts
Authors: Asena Bilgehan Sezgin , Kaskaloglu Mahmut
Published: April 2016

Aim

This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of femtosecond (FS) laser capsulotomy between mature and non‐mature cataracts.

Setting

Kaskaloglu Eye Hospital, single center study.

Design

Prospective, controlled, and masked cross‐sectional disease.

Methods

A total of 133 eyes of 97 patients were included in this study. The Lens Opacities Classification System III grading scale was used in order to classify cataracts into two groups: mature and non‐mature. The LenSx laser system (Alcon Labs Inc, Fort Worth, TX) was used. Data were extracted from patient charts, which included cataract grading, capsulotomy problems (tag, incomplete capsulotomy, and anterior capsule tears).

Results

The mean age was 69.2 ± 10 years (64 males, 34 females). There were 50 eyes in Group I and 83 eyes in Group II. In 20 out of 133 eyes (15%) capsule tags occurred. Of these 20 eyes, 12 were in Group I, and 8 were in Group II. The number of tag occurrences was statistically higher in Group I when compared to Group II (P = 0.011). Incomplete capsulotomy was significantly higher in Group I when compared to Group II (P < 0.0001). Free capsulotomy was present in 36 out of 50 eyes (72%) in Group I and 75 out of 83 eyes (90%) in Group II (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

The grade of cataract significantly increased the number of suboptimal capsulotomy outcomes in FS laser capsulotomy. In mature cataract cases, the surgeon should be aware of limitations of FS laser in order to prevent capsule‐related complications. Further studies of the relationship between pulse energy, patient interface design, and capsule burst strength will help elucidate the optimum parameters for laser capsulotomy creation in mature cataracts. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:590–595, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dielectric Dispersion and Relaxation in Polymer Blend Based Nanodielectric Film
Authors: Sengwa Ram Jeewan , Choudhary Shobhna
Published: April 2016

Polymer nanodielectrics is the exponential growing field of advanced materials sciences. Such flexible materials have recognized their suitability as substrate and insulator in fabrication of microelectronic devices, and also in preparation of ion conducting solid polymer electrolytes. The nanodielectric film consisted of poly(ethylene oxide) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PEO–PMMA; 75/25 wt/wt%) blend with 5 wt% montmorillonite (MMT) clay as nanofiller has been prepared by solution‐casting method followed by melt‐pressed technique. The X‐ray diffraction study of the film confirms the intercalated MMT structures in the semicrystalline phase of PEO–PMMA blend. The scanning electron microscopic images confirm the significant variation in morphology of the PEO–PMMA blend on addition of MMT nanofiller. The dielectric relaxation spectroscopy has been employed for measurement of complex dielectric function, ac electrical conductivity and electric modulus spectra of the nanodielectric film in the frequency range 20 Hz–1 MHz. The value of real part of dielectric function of the film is found high at low frequencies due to contribution of electrode polarization effect, but it decreases non‐linearly with the increase of frequency and finally approaches the high frequency limiting value of 2.3 at 1 MHz. The relaxation peak in dielectric loss spectra corresponding to polymer segmental motion is found above 10 kHz, and the peak positions have a shift towards higher frequency side with the increase of temperature. The dc conductivity increases and the relaxation time of the polymer segmental motion decreases with increasing temperature of the nanodielectric film according to the Arrhenius behaviour.
Techniques for Assessing the Combustion Behaviour of Polymeric Materials: Some Current Perspectives and Future Directions
Authors: Joseph Paul , Tretsiakova‐McNally Svetlana , Zhang Richao
Published: April 2016

Polymers are increasingly being used in domestic, commercial and in public environments as components of fabrics, surface coatings and moulded articles. Most of these polymeric components are synthetic, are based on hydrocarbon intermediates, and are highly flammable, thus resulting in unwanted fires. Combustion of polymeric materials is a complex phenomenon that involves the solid phase, gaseous phase and the interphase. To fully characterize the flammability attributes of a polymeric material is not a straightforward task, and therefore several analytical techniques and other prescriptive tests (small‐, medium‐, and large‐scale) were developed over the years. However, the actual behaviour of these materials in a real fire scenario can be quite different from the inferences that we get, especially, through the small‐ and medium‐scale tests, and that there is often a lack correlation among the tests. In this paper, we attempt a critical appraisal of the various evaluation methods and test regimes that are currently used to characterize the combustion behaviours of polymeric materials.
Play It Again, Sam? Versioning in the Market for Second‐hand Video Game Software
Authors: Cox Joe
Published: April 2016

Information goods are characterised by high fixed costs and low marginal costs of production. A potentially effective strategy that can be adopted by firms operating in such markets is versioning, whereby various features are added or subtracted from a number of distinct versions of the good. This effectively serves as a means of second‐degree price discrimination designed to extract prices closer to the maximum willingness to pay from different groups of consumers. This study tests the effectiveness of versioning as a means of exploiting differences in willingness to pay in second‐hand markets for information goods by undertaking the first hedonic price analysis of video gaming software. The empirical evidence presented in this paper is based on the analysis of an extensive cross‐sectional dataset consisting of over 5000 observations of pre‐owned video game prices in the USA. Controls are introduced for a variety of other observable characteristics, including the quality of the game‐play experience, the publisher, genre and theme of the game. The results are consistent with theoretical expectations and demonstrate that significant variations in willingness to pay can be exploited through the strategic use of versioning. The practice is therefore argued to represent an effective means by which firms in these markets can enhance revenues. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical exercise during muscle regeneration improves recovery of the slow/oxidative phenotype
Authors: Koulmann Nathalie , Richard‐Bulteau Hélène , Crassous Brigitte , Serrurier Bernard , Pasdeloup Marielle , Bigard Xavier , Banzet Sébastien
Published: April 2016

Introduction: As skeletal muscle mass recovery after extensive injury is improved by contractile activity, we explored whether concomitant exercise accelerates recovery of the contractile and metabolic phenotypes after muscle injury. Methods: After notexin‐induced degeneration of a soleus muscle, Wistar rats were assigned to active (running exercise) or sedentary groups. Myosin heavy chains (MHC), metabolic enzymes, and calcineurin were studied during muscle regeneration at different time points. Results: The mature MHC profile recovered earlier in active rats (21 days after injury) than in sedentary rats (42 days). Calcineurin was higher in the active degenerated than in the sedentary degenerated muscles at day 14. Citrate synthase and total lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity decreased after injury and were similarly recovered in both active and sedentary groups at 14 or 42 days, respectively. H‐LDH isozyme activity recovered earlier in the active rats. Conclusions: Exercise improved recovery of the slow/oxidative phenotype after soleus muscle injury. Muscle Nerve 55: 91–100, 2017
Ultrasonography of sciatic nerve endometriosis
Authors: Arányi Zsuzsanna , Polyák Ilona , Tóth Norbert , Vermes Gábor , Göcsei Zsuzsanna
Published: April 2016

Introduction: We describe the ultrasonographic findings of sciatic nerve endometriosis. Methods: Two premenopausal women with catamenial sciatica symptoms were examined, the first without a history of endometriosis, the second with previously confirmed endometriosis of the ovary. Ultrasonography, extending from the sciatic notch to the level of the ischial tuberosity showed that the sciatic nerve was “engulfed” in a large, perineural, hypoechogenic, inhomogeneous lesion with an irregular contour corresponding to an endometrioma. The nerve was enlarged, but it was discernible within the lesion, except at its most cranial part. MRI of the pelvis showed intrapelvic extension in both patients. Results: The first patient was treated with a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist, leading to complete morphological regression and normalization of nerve structure, parallel with symptomatic resolution. Conclusions: These cases illustrate that ultrasound is a feasible imaging modality for sciatic nerve endometriosis that may even be used to monitor morphological regression of endometrial tissue during treatment. Muscle Nerve 54: 500–505, 2016
Elevated pain threshold in patients with asymptomatic diabetic neuropathy: an intraepidermal electrical stimulation study
Authors: Suzuki Chieko , Kon Tomoya , Funamizu Yukihisa , Ueno Tatsuya , Haga Rie , Nishijima Haruo , Arai Akira , Tomiyama Masahiko , Baba Masayuki
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The loss of epidermal nerve fibers is regarded as an early pathological change in human diabetes. We investigated epidermal Aδ nerve fiber function by examining pain threshold by means of intraepidermal electrical stimulation (IES) in early diabetic neuropathy.

Methods

We recruited 20 asymptomatic diabetic patients. Eighteen age‐matched, healthy subjects served as controls. We placed the IES electrode onto the skin of the foot dorsum and delivered weak electrical stimulation. We defined pain threshold as the minimum electrical intensity at which a subject felt a pricking sensation.

Results

The mean pain thresholds in the patient group were significantly higher (0.053 ± 0.036 mA; P < 0.01) than in the control group (0.027 ± 0.006 mA).

Conclusion

We confirmed that the pain threshold was elevated in early diabetic neuropathy. We conclude that the IES electrode is a useful tool to evaluate early diabetic polyneuropathy. Muscle Nerve 54: 146–149, 2016
Dose‐response relationship between sulfonylureas and major adverse cardiovascular events in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Abdelmoneim Ahmed S. , Eurich Dean T. , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , Qiu Weiyu , Simpson Scot H.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The objective of this study was to determine if there is a dose‐response relationship between sulfonylureas and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among elderly patients with no history of acute coronary syndrome or stroke who initiated gliclazide or glyburide therapy between 1998 and 2010. Gliclazide and glyburide users were evaluated separately, and a high‐dimensional propensity score (HDPS) was used to match patients initiating therapy with a low or high dose. A time‐dependent variable was used to further characterize exposure, which can change during follow‐up. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to compare the risk of MACE between low (reference) and high doses.

Results

We identified 14,213 new users of gliclazide or glyburide (mean age, 74.7 (standard deviation 6.4) years; males, 52.8%; and mean follow‐up duration, 2.7 (standard deviation 2.9) years). Among gliclazide users, there was a higher risk of MACE with high compared with low dose (crude rates: 32.8 and 28.2 per 1000 person‐years, respectively), but this did not reach statistical significance (HDPS‐matched hazard ratio) 1.15; 95% confidence interval (0.96–1.38). For glyburide users, however, MACE occurred more frequently in the high compared with low dose (crude rates: 38.9 and 31.5 per 1000 person‐years, respectively; HDPS‐matched hazard ratio 1.24; 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.50).

Conclusions

Among new users of sulfonylureas, there appears to be a dose‐response relationship between glyburide and MACE, but not for gliclazide. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecularly imprinted polymers bearing spiropyran‐based photoresponsive binding sites capable of photo‐triggered switching for molecular recognition activity
Authors: Murase Nobuo , Mukawa Takashi , Sunayama Hirobumi , Takeuchi Toshifumi
Published: April 2016

Photoresponsive molecularly imprinted nanocavities were prepared using a newly designed functional monomer bearing a photoresponsive spiropyran moiety with a carboxy group that can interact with atrazine (the template molecule), in which the spiropyran moiety was incorporated into the binding cavities. Spectrophotometric analysis confirmed that the spiropyran moiety was photoresponsive even after polymerization. The selectivity of the EDMA‐based molecularly imprinted polymer (MIPEDMA) was tested to examine the binding behavior of atrazine and other agrochemicals, revealing that the atrazine‐imprinted polymer can bind selectively to triazine herbicides. Photo‐triggered switching of the binding activity in MIPEDMA was investigated, and the binding activity was found to decrease dramatically after UV light irradiation, suggesting that the spiropyran moiety in the binding cavities was transformed to the merocyanine form, resulting in unfavorable translocation of the carboxy group for atrazine binding. Consequently, the spiropyran‐based MIPEDMA demonstrated in this study could open a way to realizing reliable photoresponsive smart materials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1637–1644
An Integrated Framework for Developing Discrete‐Time Modelling in Software Reliability Engineering
Authors: Shatnawi Omar
Published: April 2016

In the software reliability engineering literature, few attempts have been made to study the fault debugging environment using discrete‐time modelling. Most endeavours assume that a detected fault to have been either immediately removed or is perfectly debugged. Such discrete‐time models may be used for any debugging environment and may be termed black‐box, which are used without having prior knowledge about the nature of the fault being debugged. However, if one has to develop a white‐box model, one needs to be cognizant of the debugging environment. During debugging, there are numerous factors that affect the debugging process. These factors may include the internal, for example, fault density, and fault debugging complexity and the external that originates in the debugging environment itself, such as the skills of the debugging team and the debugging effort expenditures. Hence, the debugging environment fault removal may take a longer time after having been detected. Therefore, it is imperative to clearly understand the testing and debugging environment and, hence, the urgency to develop a model. The model ought to take into account the fault debugging complexity and incorporate the learning phenomenon of the debugger under imperfect debugging environment. This objective dictates developing a framework through an integrated modelling approach based on nonhomogenous Poisson process that incorporates these realistic factors during the fault debugging process. Actual software reliability data have been used to demonstrate applicability of the proposed integrated framework. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In search of the Latin soul
Authors: Heeg Robert
Published: April 2016

Consumer habits, migration and sociological transformations are some of the developments changing the world. Latin America is no exception.
What is hype? and what is really here to stay
Authors: Hunter Jeff
Published: April 2016

Jeff Hunter interviews Jan Benedict Steenkamp from the University of North Carolina about how much of our theory and belief is based on cross sectional data (short term thinking) and longitudinal data (long term thinking). Do we have a short term bias?
Evaluation of temporomandibular fossa and mandibular condyle in adolescent patients affected by bilateral cleft lip and palate using cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Uçar Faruk Izzet , Buyuk Suleyman Kutalmış , Şekerci Ahmet Ercan , Celikoglu Mevlut
Published: April 2016

The purposes of this study were to investigate the position of the mandibular condyle and temporomandibular fossa between the adolescent patients affected by bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) and well‐matched controls without any cleft by using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT). The study sample consisted of 17 patients (7 females and 10 males; mean age, 14.27 ± 2.83 years) affected by BCLP and 17 patients (6 females and 11 males; mean age, 14.27 ± 2.12 years) as age‐and sex‐matched control group without any cleft. Using cone‐beam computed tomography segmented three‐dimensional temporomandibular fossa and mandibular condyle images were reconstructed and angular, linear, and volumetric measurements of the patients in both sides of the groups were examined using Paired and Student's t‐tests. Comparison of the sides showed that both sides were found to be similar in BCLP and control groups, except the condylar angulation of the right side was found to be higher compared to that of the left side in both groups (p < 0.05). Comparison of the groups showed that the patients affected by BCLP and non‐cleft patients had similar values for all parameters, except for the condylar angulation in the right side (BCLP group had less angulation compared to controls; p < 0.05). The condylar volume was found to be slightly less in the BCLP group in both sides compared to the controls (p > 0.05). The positions of the mandibular condyle and temporomandibular fossa were found to be similar in patients affected by BCLP and control group of without any cleft. SCANNING 38:720–726, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lowering the Activation Energy under Mechanochemical Conditions: The Case of 2,3‐diphenylquinoxaline
Authors: Oliveira Paulo F. M. , Baron Michel , Chamayou Alain , Baltas Michel , Guidetti Brigitte , Haruta Naoki , Tanaka Kazuyoshi , Sato Tohru
Published: April 2016

The kinetics of 2,3‐diphenylquinoxaline synthesis was investigated in mechanochemical conditions aiming to estimate the overall activation energy. Arrhenius plot revealed a change in the activation energy around the eutectic melting of the powder mixture under mechanical activation. Below this transition zone the reaction between solids prevails, where the mechanical effects lower the activation energy. Above it, part of the energy is used to induce the eutectic, and the apparent activation energy is higher. DFT calculations showed a reaction barrier similar to the experimental one for higher temperatures. This study is the first that demonstrates the effect of mechanical energy to lower an activation barrier for ball milled organic reaction.
Highly Efficient and Monodisperse Graphene Oxide Furnished Ru/Pd Nanoparticles for the Dehalogenation of Aryl Halides via Ammonia Borane
Authors: Göksu Haydar , Yıldız Yunus , Çelik Betül , Yazıcı Melike , Kılbaş Benan , Şen Fatih
Published: April 2016

Highly monodisperse graphene oxide‐supported Ru/Pd nanoparticles (RuPd@GO NPs) have been reproducibly and easily synthesized by microwave assisted method. RuPd@GO NPs was performed for dehalogenation of arylhalides in the presence of ammonia borane in a mild condition as novel, highly efficient and exceptional reusable heterogeneous catalyst. The novel materials were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the high resolution electron micrograph (HRTEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that the prepared catalysts are highly crystalline, monodisperse and colloidally stable. The current one‐pot catalytic process was described as a new methodology for dehalogenation of arylhalides which can be assessed as a quite simple, eco‐friendly and highly efficient as well as exceptional reusable. All products were provided with one of the highest yield and the shortest time in the presence of novel RuPd@GO NPs due to the the synergistic effect of Ru and Pd. Our synthesis process comes with a facile and eco‐friendly option to RuPd@GO NPs, allowing further scrutiny of current catalysts for numerous other chemical reactions.
Primary Industry Chains and Networks: Analysis for Public and Private Interests
Authors: Baker Derek , Dizyee Kanar , Parker Warren , Scrimgeour Frank , Griffith Garry
Published: April 2016

Modern primary industry makes obsolete the conventional analysis of private and social performance. This is due to the dominance of chain failure as opposed to the more familiar market failure. This paper makes the case that value addition dominates aspirations for primary industries, and vertical coordination and shifts in commercial power balances feature in the sharing of benefits within value chains. Moreover, complexity in chain relationships and some particular features of primary industry bring challenges to forward planning and concerted effort. Value addition in New Zealand's forestry and wood products' industry presents several such challenges, and these are examined with a qualitative system dynamics model. Potential policy responses that eliminate chain failure are discussed in association with the Australian beef industry research model. The paper advocates joint industry‐university‐government action in terms of research and skills development. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Importance of Being Agnes
Authors: Schilt Kristen
Published: April 2016

Harold Garfinkel's 1950s case study of “Agnes” is broadly understood as the locus classicus of sociological research about transgender people. Drawing on an analysis of unpublished archival materials from Garfinkel and Robert J. Stoller, the lead psychiatrist on Agnes's case, I locate Agnes' experiences at UCLA within a larger history of theorizing about gender and sexuality within the social sciences, and within the emerging field of transgender studies.