bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C‐13 Chemical‐Shift Tensors in Organic Materials
Authors: Harper James K. , Iuliucci Robbie J.
Published: September 2014

The chemical‐shift tensor provides an exquisitely sensitive measure of the electronic environment around a nucleus. The tensor is defined by a real symmetric 3 × 3 matrix with six measurable components. Single crystals are usually required to measure all six components whereas three shifts per nucleus are measurable in powders. These powder data, known asprincipal values, are defined asδ11 ≥ δ22 ≥ δ33. Presently, most 2D experiments measuring tensor data display the 1D isotropic spectrum along one axis and the tensor patterns for each resonance along the second dimension. Experiments most frequently used are two‐dimensional phase‐adjusted spinning sideband (2D PASS), phase corrected magic angle turning (PHORMAT), FIREMAT (five π replicated magic angle turning), RAI (recoupling of anistropic information), SUPER (separation of undistorted powder patterns by effortless recoupling), and CSA (chemical shift anisotropy) amplification. Very few simple relationships exist between principal values and structure, thus comparison with model structures from computational methods has become important. Recently, these computational methods have been used to predict structure in solids that are intractable to traditional methods. Tensor data have also been found to be extremely sensitive to crystal structure and can therefore be used to further refine some structures, including single crystal structures. The prospect of predicting entire crystal structures from13C tensor data and computational methods is now realistic, and a few structures have recently been determined without diffraction data.
Advances in Small‐ and Wide‐Angle X‐ray ScatteringSAXSandWAXSof Proteins
Authors: Spilotros Alessandro , Svergun Dmitri I.
Published: September 2014

Small‐angle scattering of X‐rays (SAXS) is an established method for low‐resolution structural characterization of native biological macromolecules in solution. Recent progress in instrumentation (most notably, high brilliance synchrotron sources) and novel data analysis methods significantly enhanced the capabilities of the technique for the structure research. SAXS allows one to study the overall static structure and conformational changes in response to variations in external conditions or ligand binding and is able of providing structural information about partially or completely disordered systems. Extending the data collection to wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS) allows one not only to resolve the overall size and shape of proteins and complexes but also to probe the fold and to analyze subtle structural transitions. In this manuscript, we present the basic aspects of theory and instrumentation as well as the major modeling techniques used in data analysis and interpretation of macromolecular solutions. A brief account of small‐angle neutron scattering technique (SANS) is also presented showing its complementarity to SAXS. Selected applications of SAXS and WAXS to different types of biomolecules are presented including the analysis of dynamic multicomponent equilibria, characterization of flexible systems, and time‐resolved studies.
Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy
Authors: Warnock James N. , Al‐Rubeai Mohamed
Published: September 2014

Gene therapy has faced many challenges over the past 20 years as it has made its way toward clinical realization. In 2012, theEMAapproved the first gene therapy for European markets, marking a landmark for the technology. Other gene therapies will inevitably follow with an increasing number now progressing to late‐stage clinical trials. To date, manufacturing processes have been able to produce enough viral vectors to satisfy the demands of these studies. However, current processes need to be scaled up if commercial demand is to be met, especially for therapies that treat diseases with large patient populations.
Introduction to Biomanufacturing
Authors: Witcher Mark F.
Published: September 2014

This chapter provides a brief introduction to biopharmaceutical manufacturing covering the essential elements of the overall manufacturing enterprise. Because of the complexity of biopharmaceuticals, the manufacturing facility must be designed with a basic understanding of the overall enterprise and how it functions. Biopharmaceutical manufacturing uses relatively simple processes composed of unit operations (UOs), which employs relatively simple pieces of equipment as compared to other industries, particularly to those found in the chemical and petrochemical industries. However, the constituents within the UOs are significantly more complex.

With the aim of cultivating understanding of how the overall manufacturing enterprise is operated and controlled, the chapter begins with a brief description of the constituents used in biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes, it then identifies and describes the three basic elements of biopharmaceutical manufacturing enterprise of process, facility, and infrastructure, and finally it provides a framework for evaluating and controlling the facility and process UOs.
Biological Stains
Authors: Gunn Peter R.
Published: September 2014

DNA methods have become the gold standard in associating biological material to an individual. However, in forensic investigations it remains critically important to establish the biological origin of the DNA profile, so that the circumstances surrounding its deposition can be investigated. This article outlines the most common methods of identifying body fluid stains.
Paraphilias and Sexual Crimes—An Overview
Authors: Aggrawal Anil
Published: September 2014

The chapter outlines a comprehensive examination of sex crimes, sex offenders, victims of sex crimes as well as intervention and treatment strategies. The range of paraphilias discussed is wide ranging from sexual abuse and fetishism to necrophilia and sadomasochism. Emphasizing the physical and psychological aspects of sexuality itself, the chapter presents detailed comparisons of legal and medical definitions, historical aspects, current incidence, and geographical prevalence of these offenses. It also explores the potential causes, discusses etiological theories and reviews psychopathology.
Forensic Aspects of Horseracing
Authors: Morris Tim
Published: September 2014

The sport of horseracing has a long history, including a strong association with betting. This association, in particular, has introduced the risk of corruption, which is controlled by regulation. Challenges faced by regulators include assuring horse identity, controlling doping and medication, preventing prohibited practices, assuring horse welfare, and controlling corrupt betting. Forensic tools used to aid regulators include visual methods of identification, electronic ID transponders, DNA technology for parentage verification, laboratory analysis for drug detection, and modern intelligence and analysis tools
Eyewitness Testimony: Admissibility and Legal Challenges
Authors: Newirth Karen A.
Published: September 2014

Scientific researchers in the area of eyewitness memory and perception have long challenged the standard judicial analysis for evaluating the admissibility and treatment of eyewitness identification evidence in criminal trials. In the last several years, the high courts of several states have begun to recognize this research and alter their approach to considering this prevalent yet highly unreliable form of evidence. This article surveys the two most dramatic revisions from the high courts of New Jersey, Oregon, and the proposed revision currently pending in Massachusetts.
Wrongful Convictions and the Role of Forensic Science
Authors: Garrett Brandon L.
Published: September 2014

Advances in forensic technology played a central role in securing over 300 exonerations of convicts using DNA testing, and many more criminal defendants are cleared by forensic evidence in the early stages of criminal investigations. However, a careful study of what contributes to such wrongful convictions in the first place can shed light on how forensic testing and testimony can contribute accurate information to prevent errors. This chapter presents the findings of a study of the role that the presentation of forensic evidence played in the criminal trials of DNA exonerees, in order to explore the types of flawed testimony and errors that can contribute to wrongful convictions, and the lessons that can be learned from those errors in order to strengthen the use of forensic science.
Fire Modeling and Its Application in Fire Investigation
Authors: Carpenter Douglas J.
Published: September 2014

Individuals involved in the forensic investigation and analysis of fire and explosion incidents are usually tasked with rendering opinions as to the origin, cause, responsibility, and/or prevention of such incidents so that future incidents can be avoided or prevented. The essence of the investigation of fire and explosion incidents is embodied in the use of the scientific method, which has traditionally been used in the physical sciences and it forms the basis for legitimate scientific and engineering investigations. The combustion and fire sciences involve complex phenomena, and the advancement of these sciences has helped to build a technical foundation for the discipline. The challenge for the fire investigator is the practical application of fundamental knowledge to the investigation of fires. Such fundamental knowledge can be exploited through the development of models to overcome some of the complexities of the combustion phenomena that limit practical application. Mathematical fire modeling provides the fire investigator with tools for the testing of hypotheses associated with the origin and cause of a particular fire event. Even when the origin and cause of the fire is not at issue, these modeling tools can also be used to evaluate the factors that caused damage to property or injury to people. This article provides an overview of mathematical fire modeling and its application to the investigation of fire and explosion incidents.
Strategic and Operational Prepositioning in Case of Seasonal Natural Disasters: A Perspective
Authors: Apte Aruna
Published: September 2014

This article discusses prepositioning as a strategic and operational process and addresses shortcomings in current predisaster planning for humanitarian logistics in case of seasonal natural disaster. A distinction is made between strategic and operational approaches. Strategic prepositioning occurs long before the disaster strikes, involves the acquisition or expansion of assets for increasing capacity, and establishes contractual agreements and protocols for collaboration. Operational prepositioning deals with the issues of inventory levels, the location of warehouses, and the functionality of disaster centers for the humanitarian operations that take place when a disaster is imminent or has already struck. The examples described in the article illustrate the development of optimization models and solution processes that can be used to analyze and address similar disaster situations.
Decision Rule Preference Model
Authors: Greco Salvatore , Matarazzo Benedetto , Słowiński Roman
Published: September 2014

We present the methodology of Multiple‐Criteria Decision Aiding (MCDA) based on preference modeling in terms of “if,then” decision rules. The basic assumption of the decision rule approach is that the decision maker (DM) accepts to give preferential information in terms of examples of decisions and looks for simple rules justifying her decisions. An important advantage of this approach is the possibility of handling inconsistencies in the preferential information, resulting from hesitations of the DM. The proposed methodology is based on the elementary, natural and rational principle of dominance. It says that if action is at least as good as action on each criterion from a considered family, then is also comprehensively at least as good as . From a methodological point of view, the set of decision rules constituting the preference model is induced from the preferential information using a knowledge discovery technique properly modified, so as to handle the dominance principle. The mathematical basis of the decision rule approach to MCDA is the Dominance‐based Rough Set Approach (DRSA) developed by the authors. We present some basic applications of this approach, starting by multiple‐criteria classification problems, and then going through decision under uncertainty, hierarchical decision making, classification problems with partially missing information, problems with imprecise information modeled by fuzzy sets, until multiple‐criteria choice and ranking problems.
Alloys
Authors: Xiong Ding‐Bang
Published: September 2014

This article treats the current state of fundamental understanding, development, and applications of alloys, with emphasis on alloy chemistry rather than physical metallurgy. First, alloy phases and phase diagrams are treated from a computational viewpoint. Next, technical alloys, including steels, aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys, superalloys, and titanium alloys, are reviewed; structural intermetallics are treated as a paradigm for theoretical predictive methods. A review of important specialty alloys follows, including hard and soft magnetic alloys, superconductors, shape memory, and magnetostrictive alloys, hydrogen storage alloys, thermoelectric alloys, solders, and alloy coatings. A brief survey of current advanced alloy preparation and characterization methods concludes the article.
High‐Pressure Synthesis of Solids
Authors: Azuma Masaki , Ohtaka Osamu , Kumada Nobuhiro
Published: September 2014

High pressure, including hydrothermal condition and high‐oxygen pressure, is one of the independent axes of the three‐dimensional space in which materials exist. The variety of known compounds therefore increases by employing high‐pressure synthesis. Both classical and modern aspects of high‐pressure synthesis will be outlined, taking diamond, rock crystals (α‐quartz), perovskites, and some other materials as examples.
Light‐Powered Healing of a Wearable Electrical Conductor
Authors: Kang Hong Suk , Kim Hee‐Tak , Park Jung‐Ki , Lee Seungwoo
Published: September 2014

Mechanical failure along a conductive pathway can cause unexpected shutdown of an electronic devices, ultimately limiting the device lifetime. To address this problem, various systems to realize healable electrical conductors have been proposed; however, rapid, noninvasive, and on‐demand healing, factors that are all synergistically required, especially for wearable device applications, still remains challenging. Here, a light‐powered healable electrical conductor (conceptualized as photofluidic diffusional system) is proposed for simple‐, fast‐, and easy‐to‐implement wearable devices (e.g., the electronic skin, sensitive to mechanical motion). Contrary to other implementations such as capsules, heat, water, and mechanical forces, green light even with low intensity has potential to provide fast (less than 3 min) and repetitive recovery of a damaged electrical conductor without any direct invasion. Also, the multiple, irregular cracks resulting from vigorous motions of wearable devices can be simultaneously recovered regardless of the light incident angles and crack propagation directions, thus, making light‐powered healing more accessible to wearable devices beyond existing system options. To develop and demonstrate the key concepts of this system, combined studies on materials, integrations, and light‐powering strategy for recovering a damaged wearable electrical conductor are systematically carried out in the present work.
Agreement between upper respiratory diagnoses from self‐report questionnaires and medical records in an occupational health setting
Authors: Weakley Jessica , Webber Mayris P. , Ye Fen , Zeig‐Owens Rachel , Cohen Hillel W. , Hall Charles B. , Kelly Kerry , Prezant David J.
Published: September 2014

Background

The Fire Department of the City of New York World Trade Center Health Program (FDNY‐WTCHP) monitors and treats WTC‐related illnesses through regular physical exams, self‐administered health questionnaires and treatment visits, as indicated.

Methods

We measured positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) of self‐reported diagnoses of GERD and rhinosinusitis from the health questionnaires in relation to FDNY physician diagnoses from the medical record.

Results

Self‐reported GERD had PPV and NPV of 54.0% and 95.7%, respectively; for rhinosinusitis, the PPV and NPV were 48.2% and 91.9%. These characteristics improved considerably (PPV 78.0% GERD and PPV 76.5% rhinosinusitis) in a subpopulation receiving medications from the FDNY‐WTCHP.

Conclusion

The PPV of self‐reported diagnoses demonstrates only modest value in predicting physician diagnoses, although high NPVs suggest benefit in ruling out disease. In subgroups selected for their higher disease prevalence, self‐reported diagnoses may be considerably more useful. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:1181–1187, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Industry contributions to aggregate workplace injury and illness rate trends: 1992–2008
Authors: Ruser John W.
Published: September 2014

Background

Aggregate workplace injury and illness rates have generally declined over the past quarter century. Assessing which industries contributed to these declines is hampered by industry coding changes that broke time series data.

Materials and methods

Ratios were estimated to convert older incidence rate data to current industry codes and to create long industry time series from data of the BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses. These data were used to assess contributions to aggregate trends from within‐industry incidence rate trends and across‐industry hours shifts.

Results

Hours shifts toward safer industries do not explain aggregate incidence rate declines. Rather declines resulted from within‐industry declines. The top 20 contributors out of 307 industries account for 40 percent of the decline and include both goods‐producing and service‐providing industries.

Conclusion

These data help focus future research on industries responsible for rate declines and factors hypothesized as contributing to declines. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:1149–1164, 2014. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Frontiers in the bioarchaeology of stress and disease: Cross‐disciplinary perspectives from pathophysiology, human biology, and epidemiology
Authors: Klaus Haagen D.
Published: September 2014

Over the last four decades, bioarchaeology has experienced significant technical growth and theoretical maturation. Early 21st century bioarchaeology may also be enhanced from a renewed engagement with the concept of biological stress. New insights on biological stress and disease can be gained from cross‐disciplinary perspectives regarding human skeletal variation and disease. First, pathophysiologic and molecular signaling mechanisms can provide more precise understandings regarding formation of pathological phenotypes in bone. Using periosteal new bone formation as an example, various mechanisms and pathways are explored in which new bone can be formed under conditions of biological stress, particularly in bone microenvironments that involve inflammatory changes. Second, insights from human biology are examined regarding some epigenetic factors and disease etiology. While epigenetic effects on stress and disease outcomes appear profoundly influential, they are mostly invisible in skeletal tissue. However, some indirect and downstream effects, such as the developmental origins of adult health outcomes, may be partially observable in bioarchaeological data. Emerging perspectives from the human microbiome are also considered. Microbiomics involves a remarkable potential to understand ancient biology, disease, and stress. Third, tools from epidemiology are examined that may aid bioarchaeologists to better cope with some of the inherent limitations of skeletal samples to better measure and quantify the expressions of skeletal stress markers. Such cross‐disciplinary synergisms hopefully will promote more complete understandings of health and stress in bioarchaeological science. Am J Phys Anthropol 155:294–308, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Face and content validity of sheep heads in endoscopic rhinology training
Authors: Awad Zaid , Touska Philip , Arora Asit , Ziprin Paul , Darzi Ara , Tolley Neil Samuel
Published: September 2014

Background

The objective of this study was to assess the face and content validity of the sheep head model in endoscopic rhinology training.

Methods

This study was a prospective evaluation study. Experienced otolaryngologists and trainees were recruited to complete 7 endoscopic rhinology tasks on pre‐prepared sheep heads. All participants completed a validated 20­item questionnaire using a 5‐point Likert scale to assess the model across 4 domains: face validity (FV), global content (GC), task‐specific content (TSC), and curriculum applicability (CTR).

Results

Participants, including 25 experienced otolaryngologists and 45 trainees, completed all tasks. There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups’ ratings for FV, GC, or CTR (p = 0.50.7, 0.278, and 0.157, respectively). The model achieved median face validity of 4 (interquartile range [IQR]: 4 to 5) with the agreement of experienced surgeons and trainees alike (95% and 90%, respectively). The median global content was 4 (IQR: 4 to 5 and agreement of 88% and 87%. There was some variation in the rating of task‐specific content. A total of 6 tasks achieved validity with the agreement of experienced otolaryngologists. The highest‐rated tasks were “examination under anesthesia” and “foreign body retrieval.” Participants agreed on curriculum incorporation, transferability, and recommendation to trainees (median: 5; IQR: 4 to 5 and 95% to 97% agreement).

Conclusion

The sheep head model achieved face and content validity for endoscopic rhinology training. It is safe, affordable, and can aid early‐years trainees in acquiring a range of basic endoscopic rhinology skills.
The nasal floor pedicled flap: a novel technique for use in skull base reconstruction
Authors: Daraei Pedram , Oyesiku Nelson M. , Patel Zara M.
Published: September 2014

Background

Skull base reconstruction can be accomplished using various donor sites. Vascularized tissue, commonly the nasoseptal flap, is the most effective option for large defects or high flow leaks. In cases where the septum cannot be used, a mucoperiosteal flap from the nasal floor, pedicled from the sphenopalatine artery, is a viable option without reported outcomes. The aim of this work was to describe this flap and to report successful outcomes in a cohort of patients.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients seen by the senior author from 2011 to 2013 requiring skull base reconstruction for defects with cerebrospinal fluid leak.

Results

A total of 108 patients underwent endoscopic skull base reconstruction. Ten patients had reconstruction with use of a pedicled nasal floor flap. Mean age was 53.3 years. Defects involved the ethmoid roof in 5 patients, sellar floor in 2, clivus in 2, and planum sphenoidale in 1. Reasons why the septal flap could not be used were intentional sacrifice due to disease involvement, sacrifice for proper exposure, or previous septal perforation. Mean length of follow‐up was 10.2 (range, 4 to 25) months. No patient developed cerebrospinal fluid leaks postoperatively.

Conclusion

Nasal floor pedicled flaps are an effective alternative to nasoseptal flaps for reconstruction of the skull base, and have not been previously described in the literature. Outcomes are promising in our small cohort of patients. If the septum must be sacrificed, attention should be paid to the nasal floor, which provides a large mucoperiosteal flap that can be consistently exposed and elevated by the experienced surgeon.
High‐dose sublingual immunotherapy in patients with uncontrolled allergic rhinitis sensitized to pollen: a real‐life clinical study
Authors: Irani Carla , Saleh Roula Abi , Jammal Mouin , Haddad Fady
Published: September 2014

Background

High‐dose pollen sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is indicated in patients with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis (AR), especially those who are unable to control their disease with pharmacotherapy. We explore the use of high‐dose SLIT in patients with severe AR and sensitized to pollen, in real‐life clinical practice. We also analyzed the effect on asthma.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study conducted at the Allergy outpatient clinic at Hotel Dieu de France Hospital (HDF), Beirut, Lebanon. The cohort, composed of 118 patients between 7 and 55 years old, was regularly evaluated at inclusion, at 12 months, and at 36 months. Fifty‐five percent of AR patients had associated controlled asthma. Patients received a standardized pollen extract (Staloral 300IR). The pollen combination was 1 to 3 pollens, the most commonly used were Parietaria judaica, Cupressaceae, 5 grasses, and Oleaceae. In a previous study, those were the main allergenic pollens correlated to AR in the same population. Global assessment of the effect of SLIT was measured using a rhinitis total symptom score (RTSS), a rhinitis medication consumption score (RMCS), a global asthma score (ASS), and an asthma medication consumption score (AMCS).

Results

Using a t test we found that the average scores at inclusion, 12 months, and 36 months, respectively, were as follows: RTSS: 31.32, 16.39 (p < 0.041), and 13.35 (p < 0.041); RMCS: 6.96, 1.96 (p < 0.0162), and 1.61 (p < 0.0162); ASS: 4.62, 1.96 (p < 0.0005), and 1.33 (p < 0.0005); and AMCS: 2.35, 0.78 (p < 0.0005), and 0.7 (p < 0.0005).

Conclusion

Our study showed favorable results of SLIT to aeroallergens in patients with uncontrolled AR. The effect is also applicable to the subgroup of patients suffering from concomitant, controlled asthma.
Comparison of radiographic and clinical characteristics of low‐risk and high‐risk cystic fibrosis genotypes
Authors: Ferril Geoffrey R. , Nick Jerry A. , Getz Anne E. , Barham Henry P. , Saavedra Milene T. , Taylor‐Cousar Jennifer L. , Nichols David P. , Curran‐Everett Douglas , Kingdom Todd T. , Ramakrishnan Vijay R.
Published: September 2014

Background

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) exhibit a wide range of disease severity, and can be broadly stratified into high‐risk and low‐risk groups based on cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutation class. Patients with a low‐risk genotype are often diagnosed as adults, with milder disease and lower sweat chloride values. The aim of the current study was to better understand radiographic and clinical characteristics of sinus disease in adult CF patients within this risk category.

Methods

Adult CF patients were retrospectively compared to a control group of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. CF diagnostic testing and pulmonary characteristics were compared between high‐risk and low‐risk CF groups, and sinus CT findings were compared among all 3 groups.

Results

When comparing CF cohorts (n = 25 and 30, respectively), earlier age at diagnosis (p < 0.001), higher sweat chloride values (p < 0.001), lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) values (p < 0.001), and a higher prevalence of pulmonary infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (p = 0.001) were found in the high‐risk genotype group. A significantly increased incidence of sinus hypoplasia/aplasia and bony sclerosis was seen when comparing both CF groups to the control cohort (n = 30), as well as when comparing the high‐risk and low‐risk CF genotype cohorts.

Conclusion

The current study describes clinicopathologic findings of sinus disease in adult CF patients in the context of genotype severity. Our data demonstrate that while patients within a low‐risk genotype cohort have generally milder lung disease, they retain classic radiographic findings of CF sinus disease that can help raise the index of suspicion for undiagnosed CF.
Safety, feasibility, and efficacy of placement of steroid‐eluting bioabsorbable sinus implants in the office setting: a prospective case series
Authors: Matheny Keith E. , Carter Kenny B. , Tseng Ewen Y. , Fong Karen J.
Published: September 2014

Background

The outcomes of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) can be compromised by postoperative inflammation, recurrent polyposis, middle turbinate lateralization, and synechiae, often requiring subsequent interventions. A bioabsorbable steroid‐eluting sinus implant placed in the operating room following ESS has been proven safe and effective in 2 randomized controlled trials and a subsequent meta‐analysis, for its ability to preserve sinus patency, and reduce medical and surgical interventions. This trial sought to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and outcomes of implants placed in the office after achieving hemostasis.

Methods

Twenty patients with CRS underwent ESS including bilateral ethmoidectomy. A steroid‐eluting bioabsorbable implant was deployed into each ethmoid cavity in the office within 7 days after ESS. Endoscopic appearance of the ethmoid cavities was evaluated at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks postoperatively by the operating surgeon and an independent blinded evaluator. Procedural tolerance was assessed at week 2 using a patient preference questionnaire. The 20‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐20) questionnaire was completed at baseline, week 2, and week 4.

Results

In‐office placement of steroid‐eluting bioabsorbable implants was well tolerated, with 90% of patients very satisfied with the overall experience, and 80% very satisfied with the recovery process. At 1 month, there were no significant adhesions or frank polyposis, and middle turbinate lateralization was only 5%. Compared to baseline, ethmoid sinus inflammation was significantly reduced (p = 0.03), and the mean SNOT‐20 score was significantly improved (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In‐office placement of steroid‐eluting bioabsorbable implants after achieving hemostasis was well tolerated and might improve local drug diffusion and surgical outcomes.
Sustainable Three‐Component Synthesis of Isothioureas from Isocyanides, Thiosulfonates, and Amines
Authors: Mampuys Pieter , Zhu Yanping , Vlaar Tjøstil , Ruijter Eelco , Orru Romano V. A. , Maes Bert U. W.
Published: September 2014

Multiple applications of isothioureas as fine chemicals (or their precursors) are known, but a general sustainable method for their synthesis was hitherto unavailable. We report a novel general approach towards S‐alkyl and S‐aryl isothioureas through a copper(I)‐catalyzed three‐component reaction between amines, isocyanides, and thiosulfonates. The formal synthesis of a superpotent sweetener further illustrates the applicability of our method.
Isomers of Disulfur Dinitride, S2N2
Authors: Zeng Xiaoqing , Flores Antognini Andrea , Beckers Helmut , Willner Helge
Published: September 2014

UV photolysis (λ=248 or 255 nm) of cyclic S2N2 isolated in solid argon matrices yields two open‐shell S2N2 isomers, trans SNSN (3A′′) and cis SNSN (3A′′), as well as a closed‐shell C2v dimer (SN)2 (1A1). These novel isomers have been characterized by their IR spectra and mutual photo‐interconversion reactions. Quantum chemical calculations support the experimental results and also provide insight into the complex potential energy surface of S2N2.
A methanesulfonic acid/sulfuric acid‐based route for easily‐controllable chloromethylation of poly(ether ether ketone)
Authors: Yan Xiaoming , Wu Xuemei , He Gaohong , Gu Shuang , Gong Xue , Benziger Jay
Published: September 2014

A mixed methanesulfonic acid/sulfuric acid solvent based chlromethylation of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) is described. Methanesulfonic acid is the solvent, sulfuric acid is the catalyst, and chloromethyl octyl ether (CMOE) is the chloromethylating reagent. 1H‐NMR spectra confirmed the successful synthesis of chloromethylated PEEK (CMPEEK). The effects of polymer concentration, catalyst/polymer ratio, and reaction temperature on the rate of PEEK chloromethylation were investigated. In order to minimize crosslinking, the PEEK concentration must be kept very low (< 2%). The reaction rate increases with increased catalyst/polymer ratio and reaction temperature. The activation energy of PEEK chloromethylation is 30.9 kJ mol−1. The extent of reaction for the new route is more easily controllable as compared with the previous sulfuric acid based route. The reaction rate constant at 25°C for the new route is 1.29 h−1 which is lower than that for chloromethylation by concentrated sulfuric acid at −10°C (rate constant 1.88 h−1). As a result, the degree of chloromethylation of CMPEEK can be easily controlled at room temperature using this mixed solvent. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41404.
Reinforcing properties of poly(trimethyleneterephthalate) by a thermotropic liquid crystal polymer
Authors: Choi Jae‐Kon , Lee Bong‐Woo , Choi Yoo‐Sung , Jo Byung‐Wook , Choi Soo‐Kyung
Published: September 2014

A thermotropic liquid crystalline copolymer (TLCP) having a trimethylene terephthalate (TT) unit and a triad terephthaloyl mesogenic unit was synthesized and its blends with poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) were prepared for TLCP‐reinforced fiber spinning. The TLCP, PTT, and their blends were characterized in terms of their thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties. In the hot‐drawn fibers of 20 wt % TLCP/PTT blend, the well‐oriented fibrils were observed at higher temperature (>Tm) than the PTT melt by polarizing optical microscope. With scanning electron microscopy images of cryogenically fractured surfaces of the blends, the TLCP were well dispersed in 0.3 to 0.5 µm in domain size. Interfacial adhesion between the TLCP and PTT seemed fairly good. The TLCP acted effectively as a reinforcing material in PTT matrix, it led to an increase of initial modulus and tensile strength of the blend fibers as TLCP's content increased. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41408.
Toward industrial grafting of cellulosic substrates via ARGET ATRP
Authors: Hansson Susanne , Carlmark Anna , Malmström Eva , Fogelström Linda
Published: September 2014

For the past decade, the interest in controlled grafting of cellulose has increased immensely. Surface‐Initiated Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization (SI‐ATRP) has attracted the most interest; however, the sensitivity of this system has so far hindered its utilization in industry. In this study, filter paper, dissolving pulp, bleached and unbleached Kraft‐pulp, and chemi‐thermomechanical pulp papers were grafted with methyl methacrylate, employing activators regenerated by electron transfer (ARGET) ATRP. The reactions were performed in bulk or with small amounts of aqueous solutions, with no deoxygenation performed. To further demonstrate the robustness of this method towards simpler and more industry‐friendly processes, the polymerizations were conducted in glass jars with screw lids. The possibility of recycling the reaction solution was also explored. We believe his thorough study to be an important step towards industrializing the “grafting‐from” concept, and the results herein can most likely be extended to other surfaces and monomers. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41434.
Experiment and simulation of the simultaneous removal of organic and inorganic contaminants by micellar enhanced ultrafiltration with mixed micelles
Authors: Vibhandik Amar D. , Pawar Snehal , Marathe Kumudini V.
Published: September 2014

Lead, chromium, and chlorobenzene (CB) were removed simultaneously by micellar enhanced ultrafiltration with a mixture of anionic and nonionic surfactants. The process parameters, including the molar ratio of the nonionic surfactant to the ionic surfactant (α), surfactant to metal ion (S/M) molar ratio, applied pressure, and inlet flow rate, were investigated. As α was varied from 0 to 1.5, the rejection of the metal ions increased. The optimum α value was 0.5. The permeate flux decreased by 28% with increasing α from 0 to 1.5. The S/M ratio was optimized at 10 in the presence of CB. The addition of CB increased the rejection of surfactants and decreased the metal‐ion rejection. The effect of the applied pressure and inlet flow were studied and found to be optimum at 1 bar and 150 mL/min, respectively. The optimized parameters were applied to the steady‐state process. The multiple‐solute model was applied to the steady‐state data. The relative error for solute rejection was varied from 5 to 9%, and the relative error for flux was 5%. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41435.
Exertional Leg Pain in Familial Mediterranean Fever: A Manifestation of an Underlying Enthesopathy and a Marker of More Severe Disease
Authors: Eshed Iris , Rosman Yossi , Livneh Avi , Kedem Ron , Langevitz Pnina , Ben‐Zvi Ilan , Lidar Merav
Published: September 2014

Objective

Exertional leg pain is a characteristic musculoskeletal manifestation of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). We aimed to define the frequency and characteristics of exertional leg pain in a large cohort of FMF patients and to evaluate for additional signs and symptoms of spondyloarthritis (SpA) in this patient population.

Methods

FMF patients were allocated into study or control groups based on the presence or absence of exertional leg pain. Randomly selected patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the ankle as well as plain radiography of the sacroiliac joints.

Results

The prevalence of exertional leg pain among the 170 FMF patients included in the study was 58.2%. Patients with exertional leg pain had significantly more joint attacks (74.7% versus 40.8%; P < 0.0001), fever attacks (35.4% versus 15.5%; P = 0.004), and pleuritis attacks (48.5% versus 29.6%; P = 0.013) as well as more attacks per year. Elevations of inflammation markers were significantly more frequent among the study group (for the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, 44.4% of patients versus 21.1% of patients; P = 0.016) (for the C‐reactive protein level, 48.4% of patients versus 31.8% of patients; P = 0.013), and M694V homozygosity was more prevalent among the study group (45.5% versus 21.1%; P = 0.001). Signs compatible with enthesopathy on MRI were observed in 73.5% of patients in the study group and in 33.3% of patients in the control group (P = 0.046). Definite SpA was diagnosed in 41.2% of the patients in the study group compared to none of the controls (P = 0.07) (odds ratio 1.7 [95% confidence interval 1.2–2.3]).

Conclusion

Exertional leg pain is a common manifestation of FMF and is a marker of a more severe disease phenotype. Additionally, exertional leg pain is frequently associated with sacroiliitis and an underlying ankle enthesopathy and should therefore be considered a new feature of SpA.
Brief Report: Anakinra Use During Pregnancy in Patients With Cryopyrin‐Associated Periodic Syndromes
Authors: Chang Zenas , Spong Catherine Y. , Jesus Adriana A. , Davis Michael A. , Plass Nicole , Stone Deborah L. , Chapelle Dawn , Hoffmann Patrycja , Kastner Daniel L. , Barron Karyl , Goldbach‐Mansky Raphaela T. , Stratton Pamela
Published: September 2014

Objective

To describe the pregnancy course and outcome and the use of anakinra, a recombinant selective interleukin‐1 receptor blocker, during pregnancy in patients with cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndromes (CAPS), including familial cold autoinflammatory syndrome (FCAS), Muckle‐Wells syndrome (MWS), and neonatal‐onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID).

Methods

Women with CAPS who were currently enrolled in natural history protocols and had been pregnant were included. Subjects underwent a structured, standardized interview with regard to maternal health, pregnancy, and fetal outcomes. Medical records were reviewed.

Results

Nine women (4 with FCAS, 2 with MWS/NOMID overlap, and 3 with NOMID) reported 1–4 pregnancies (a total of 15 pregnancies in women with FCAS, 3 in women with MWS, and 6 in women with NOMID). Six births to women with FCAS and 3 births to women with NOMID or MWS/NOMID overlap occurred while the patients were receiving anakinra. In women who became pregnant while taking anakinra, the anakinra treatment was continued; the prepregnancy dosage was maintained except in the case of 1 woman whose dosage was increased during a pregnancy with twins. No preterm births or serious complications of pregnancy were observed. One fetus of the twin pregnancy had renal agenesis and died in utero. Genetic testing showed that the deceased twin carried the same NLRP3 c.785T>C, p.V262A mutation as the mother. The other twin was healthy and mutation negative.

Conclusion

Anakinra was continued during pregnancy in women with CAPS and provided significant, persistent symptom relief while continuing to prevent the long‐term sequelae of CAPS. Anakinra was well tolerated. Although a causal relationship between anakinra and renal agenesis seems unlikely, further safety data are needed.
Methods for planning repeated measures accelerated degradation tests
Authors: Weaver Brian P. , Meeker William Q.
Published: September 2014

Repeated measures accelerated degradation tests can sometimes be used to assess product or component reliability when one would expect few or even no failures during a study. Such tests can be used to estimate the lifetime distributions of highly reliable items. This paper describes methods for selecting a single‐variable accelerated repeated measures degradation test plan when the (possibly transformed) degradation that is linear in (possibly transformed) time and unit‐to‐unit variability is described by a random‐effects model. To find optimum test plans, we use a criterion based on a large‐sample approximation to the estimation precision of a quantile of the failure‐time distribution at use conditions. We also discuss how to find compromise test plans that satisfy practical constraints. We use the general equivalence theorem to verify that a test plan is globally optimum. The resulting optimized plans are also evaluated using simulation and compared with other test plans. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oriented assembly of bacteriorhodopsin on ZnO nanostructured electrode for enhanced photocurrent generation
Authors: Molaeirad Ahmad , Rezaeian Niloofar
Published: September 2014

Bacteriorhodopsin (bR) is a photoactive protein that has great potential to be used in bioelectronics applications. For the first time, a monolayer of bR created by the Langmuir–Blodgett method is immobilized on a ZnO nanoporous film. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy analyses are used to study the morphological properties of the electrodes. In addition, an efficient biosolar cell is designed and fabricated, and the performance of produced nano‐biohybrid electrode is investigated by the measurement of power conversion efficiency of biosolar cell. Under AM1.5 irradiation, a short‐circuit current of 0.39 mA cm−2, open‐circuit voltages of 0.5 V, fill factor of 0.52, and an overall energy conversion efficiency of 0.1% are achieved.
Influence of fatty acid on lipase‐catalyzed synthesis of ascorbyl esters and their free radical scavenging capacity
Authors: Stojanović Marija , Carević Milica , Mihailović Mladen , Veličković Dušan , Dimitrijević Aleksandra , Milosavić Nenad , Bezbradica Dejan
Published: September 2014

Fatty acid (FA) ascorbyl esters are recently emerging food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical additives, which can be prepared in an eco‐friendly way by using lipases as catalysts. Because they are amphiphilic molecules, which possess high free radical scavenging capacity, they can be applied as liposoluble antioxidants as well as emulsifiers and biosurfactants. In this study, the influence of a wide range of acyl donors on ester yield in lipase‐catalyzed synthesis and ester antioxidant activity was examined. Among saturated acyl donors, higher yields and antioxidant activities of esters were achieved when short‐chain FAs were used. Oleic acid gave the highest yield overall and its ester exhibited a high antioxidant activity. Optimization of experimental factors showed that the highest conversion (60.5%) in acetone was achieved with 5 g L−1 of lipase, 50 mM of vitamin C, 10‐fold molar excess of oleic acid, and 0.7 mL L−1 of initial water. Obtained results showed that even short‐ and medium‐chain ascorbyl esters could be synthesized with high yields and retained (or even exceeded) free radical scavenging capacity of l‐ascorbic acid, indicating prospects of broadening their application in emulsions and liposomes.
Plug‐in tests for nonequivalence of means of independent normal populations
Authors: Choi Sungwoo , Park Junyong
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we consider the problem of testing nonequivalence of several independent normal population means. It is a well‐known problem to test the equality of several means using the analysis of variance (ANOVA). Instead of determining the equality, one may consider more flexible homogeneity, which allows a predetermined level of difference. This problem is known as testing nonequivalence of populations. We propose the plug‐in statistics for two different measures of variability: the sum of the absolute deviations and the maximum of the absolute deviations. For each test, the least favorable configuration (LFC) to ensure the maximum rejection probability under the null hypothesis is investigated. Furthermore, we demonstrate the numerical studies based on both simulation and real data to evaluate the plug‐in tests and compare these with the range test.
Efficient myogenic commitment of human mesenchymal stem cells on biomimetic materials replicating myoblast topography
Authors: Lee Eunjee A. , Im Sung‐Gap , Hwang Nathaniel S.
Published: September 2014

Recent developments in stem cell technologies have demonstrated human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) as a possible cell source for cell‐based therapies and regenerative medicine applications. Self‐renewal and differentiation abilities of hMSCs have enabled hMSCs to be applied in regeneration of musculoskeletal tissue. hMSCs are able to myogenically differentiate via various approaches; however, the most efficient method has not been developed. Here, we describe the efficient commitment of hMSCs to the myogenic lineage on biomimetic substrates replicating myoblast topography. We have created a tissue culture platform that replicates the micro‐and nanoscale topography of fully differentiated skeletal myoblasts. Using UV‐assisted capillary force lithography, an optically transparent cellular model of fully differentiated myoblasts was developed using a UV curable poly(urethane acrylate) resin, which was fabricated and employed as a cell‐culture substrate for the myogenic pattern of hMSCs. When hMSCs were cultured and differentiated on these biomimetic patterns, cells followed the underlying myoblast pattern and more efficiently committed to myogenic fate. These results demonstrate that myogenic potentials of hMSCs are highly depended on the micro‐ and nanoscale topographical cues. Furthermore, the described tissue culture platform can be used in larger culture settings with consistent results and easily applied to other lineage of hMSCs.