bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethanol organosolv lignin as a reactive filler for acrylamide‐based hydrogels
Authors: Xue Bai‐Liang , Wen Jia‐Long , Sun Run‐Cang
Published: July 2015

Hydrogels based on acrylamide (AM) and ethanol organosolv lignin (EOL) with high swelling and good mechanically elastic properties were synthesized in an alkaline solution. EOL was used as a reactive filler for the preparation of AM‐based hydrogels. The impact of EOL addition on the physicochemical properties of AM‐based hydrogels was investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy, and their mechanical properties were examined. The water swelling ratio of the prepared hydrogels increased with the increase of EOL content, and their maximum swelling ratio could reach up to 180. Mechanical measurements indicated that their tensile strength was highly dependent on the amount of EOL, and their elongation at break reached up to 1400%. The formation mechanism of EOL composite hydrogels was probably that most of AM was synthesized into the crosslinked poly(acrylic amide) network, and small quantities of AM was hydrolyzed to acrylic acid ions under alkaline condition. The chain transfer of free radicals from AM and/or AA to EOL molecules occurred in the polymerization process. With increasing EOL content in the hydrogels, an interpenetrating polymer network might be mainly formed by the hydrogen bonding between EOL and AA and/or AM molecules. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42638.
Facile Preparation of α‐Cyano‐α,ω‐Diaryloligovinylenes: A New Class of Color‐Tunable Solid Emitters
Authors: An Peng , Xu Nian‐Sheng , Zhang Hao‐Li , Cao Xiao‐Ping , Shi Zi‐Fa , Wen Wei
Published: July 2015

An efficient Knoevenagel condensation reaction was used to construct a series of α‐cyano‐α,ω‐diaryloligovinylenes, which show prominent fluorescence emission in the solid state. On investigating the effect of conjugation length on fluorescent properties, we found that the diene structure showed superior solid‐state luminescence. Furthermore, the emission color could be adjusted by introducing donor or acceptor functional groups at the terminal aryl groups. Full‐color emission in the visible region can be achieved by adding different functional groups to the α‐cyano‐α,ω‐diaryldivinylene moiety. The structure–property relationships were elucidated and some observations such as the substitution position effects were discussed. These compounds have potential applications as full‐color solid emissive candidates in material science and their simple structures allow them to be easily modified resulting in further interesting properties.
Robust Adaptive Neural Control for a Class of Time‐Varying Delay Systems with Backlash‐like Hysteresis Input
Authors: Zhang Xiuyu , Li Zhi , Su Chun‐Yi , Chen Xinkai , Wang Jianguo , Xia Linlin
Published: July 2015

This paper proposes a robust adaptive dynamic surface control (DSC) scheme for a class of time‐varying delay systems with backlash‐like hysteresis input. The main features of the proposed DSC method are that 1) by using a transformation function, the prescribed transient performance of the tracking error can be guaranteed; 2) by estimating the norm of the unknown weighted vector of the neural network, the computational burden can be greatly reduced; 3) by using the DSC method, the explosion of complexity problem is eliminated. It is proved that the proposed scheme guarantees all the closed‐loop signals being uniformly ultimately bounded. The simulation results show the validity of the proposed control scheme.
Robust Missile Autopilots With Finite‐Time Convergence
Authors: He Shaoming , Wang Jiang , Lin Defu
Published: July 2015

This paper presents a new longitudinal autopilot to address the finite‐time tracking problem for uncertain agile missiles. The proposed autopilot is essentially a composite control scheme, which is obtained through the finite‐time control methodology and the nonlinear disturbance observer (NDOB) approach. The key idea in this scheme is that the NDOB is adopted to estimate the aerodynamic uncertainties and external disturbances in an integrated manner. With the aid of the finite‐time bounded function and the Lyapunov function method, the finite‐time stability of the closed‐loop system is established, which shows that the angle‐of‐attack response will converge to the external command signal in finite time. Numerical simulation results are presented to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed scheme.
Graphical modeling for gene set analysis: A critical appraisal
Authors: Djordjilović Vera , Chiogna Monica , Massa M. Sofia , Romualdi Chiara
Published: July 2015

Current demand for understanding the behavior of groups of related genes, combined with the greater availability of data, has led to an increased focus on statistical methods in gene set analysis. In this paper, we aim to perform a critical appraisal of the methodology based on graphical models developed in Massa et al. () that uses pathway signaling networks as a starting point to develop statistically sound procedures for gene set analysis. We pay attention to the potential of the methodology with respect to the organizational aspects of dealing with such complex but highly informative starting structures, that is pathways. We focus on three themes: the translation of a biological pathway into a graph suitable for modeling, the role of shrinkage when more genes than samples are obtained, the evaluation of respondence of the statistical models to the biological expectations. To study the impact of shrinkage, two simulation studies will be run. To evaluate the biological expectation we will use data from a network with known behavior that offer the possibility of carrying out a realistic check of respondence of the model to changes in the experimental conditions.
Quantitation of acotiamide in rat plasma by UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS: method development, validation and application to pharmacokinetics
Authors: Patel Prinesh N. , Kalariya Pradipbhai D. , Swamy Challa Veerabhadra , Gananadhamu S. , Srinivas R.
Published: July 2015

A novel, sensitive and selective ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the quantification of acotiamide (ACT), a first‐in‐class drug used in functional dyspepsia, in rat plasma. A simple protein precipitation method with acetonitrile as precipitating solvent was used to extract ACT from rat plasma. ACT and an internal standard (mirabegron, IS) were separated on an Agilent poroshell EC C18 column (50 × 3.0 mm, 2.7 µm) using methanol–10 mM ammonium acetate binary gradient mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min over 4 min run time. Detection was performed using target ions of [M + H]+ at m/z 451.2010 for ACT and m/z 397.1693 for IS in selective ion mode. The method was validated in the calibration range of 1.31–1000 ng/mL. All the validation parameters were well within the limits. The method demonstrated good performances in terms of intra‐ and inter‐day precision (3.27–12.60% CV) and accuracy (87.96–104.94%). Thus the present ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatograhy–high‐resolution mass spectrometry method for determination of ACT in rat plasma, is highly sensitive and rapid with a short run‐time of 4 min, can be suitable for high sample throughput and for large batches of biological samples in pharmacokinetic studies. This method can be extended to measure plasma concentrations of ACT in humans to understand drug metabolism, drug interaction and adverse effects. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dissolution and Separation of Wood Biopolymers Using Ionic Liquids
Authors: Muhammad Nawshad , Man Zakaria , Mutalib M. I. Abdul , Bustam Mohamad Azmi , Wilfred Cecilia D. , Khan Amir Sada , Ullah Zahoor , Gonfa Girma , Nasrullah Asma
Published: July 2015

The majority of the world energy needs have been supplied from petroleum resources. While they are an efficient energy provider, their usage has caused pollution problems that warrant the need to search for efficient and cleaner energy sources. The ever growing global demand of energy and the concerns for the environment have prompted researchers to develop convenient and efficient ways to convert biomass into valuable chemicals, bio‐fuels, and useful biomaterials. This review focuses on the application of ionic liquids for the dissolution of wood biomass and wood‐derived compounds. The factors which affect the dissolution of cellulose and lignin in ionic liquids are described as well as the effects of ionic liquids on the physical properties of cellulose. The use of ionic liquids alone or in combination with other co‐solvent systems which help in the fractionation of wood biomass are discussed. Additionally, the cost economic aspects of ionic liquid applications are highlighted.
Amplatzer duct occluder ii for closure of congenital Gerbode defects
Authors: Vijayalakshmi I.B. , Natraj Setty H.S. , Chitra Narasimhan , Manjunath Cholenahally N.
Published: July 2015

Background

Congenital left ventricle to right atrial communications (Gerbode defects) are extremely rare (0.08%) type of ventricular septal defects. They were traditionally closed by surgery in the past. There are few case reports and small series of acquired and congenital Gerbode defects, closed with various types of devices. Aim of our study is to assess the feasibility, efficacy, and complications of transcatheter closure of congenital Gerbode defects with Amplatzer duct occluder II (ADO II).

Material

Twelve consecutive cases of Gerbode defects, age ranging from 10 months to 16 years (mean 6.7 years), weight ranging from 6.5 kg to 34 kg (mean 19.3 kg), were diagnosed on transthoracic echocardiography. Results: Transcatheter closure of Gerbode defects was done successfully through retrograde approach with ADO II. No aortic or tricuspid regurgitation or residual shunt occurred in any of the patients. One patient developed transient complete heart block needing temporary pacing.

Discussion

The soft low profile, easily trackable ADO II appears to be ideal for closure of Gerbode defects, as the central cylinder fits in the defect and the soft retention discs on either side, without polyester material, do not impinge on either aortic, mitral, or tricuspid valve. We report the successful transcatheter closure of twelve cases of congenital Gerbode defects with ADO II. Conclusions: Transcatheter closure of congenital Gerbode defects with ADO II is safe, effective, and an attractive alternative to surgical closure. ADO II appears to be tailor made for Gerbode defects, as the success rate is very high and complication rate is very low. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter pulmonary embolectomy after fontan
Authors: Torok Rachel D. , Fleming Gregory A. , Hill Kevin D.
Published: July 2015

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients, and thrombolytics are the mainstay of treatment. However, for patients who fail or have contraindications to thrombolytic therapy, catheter‐based therapies, such as the AngioVac aspiration system, have emerged as an alternative to surgical embolectomy. Here, we present the novel case of a 22 year‐old woman with Fontan circulation who developed severe postpartum cardiomyopathy and a saddle PE. She failed thrombolytic therapy but underwent successful pulmonary embolectomy by AngioVac aspiration. Patients with Fontan circulation have an increased incidence of thromboembolic events, and AngioVac thrombectomy is a valuable treatment option in these complex patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequential Modeling of Heavy Liquid Fuel Combustion in a Fluidized Bed
Authors: Yousefifar Azadeh , Sotudeh‐Gharebagh Rahmat , Mostoufi Navid , Mohtasebi Seyed Saeid
Published: July 2015

A sequential model involving hydrodynamic and reaction sub‐models is developed to predict the fluidized‐bed reactor performance for the combustion of heavy liquid fuels. The hydrodynamic sub‐model is based on the modified two‐phase theory and the reaction sub‐model is adopted from the literature. Modeling is performed in a dense bed zone and two types of bubbles, namely distributor bubbles and jet bubbles are considered. Results of the model are presented in terms of combustion efficiency and exhaust emission concentrations. The effect of various factors on these two parameters is investigated. The model is validated with experimental data reported in literature and a close agreement is observed between calculated and experimental values. The proposed model can be applied for simulation of nonideal fluidized‐bed combustors using heavy liquid fuels in industrial process simulators.
Development of Micro Separation Technology Modules. Part 1: Liquid‐Liquid Extraction
Authors: Wellsandt Tim , Stanisch Benjamin , Strube Jochen
Published: July 2015

While devices based on micro effects are increasingly accepted in reaction engineering, there is still no breakthrough for separation applications like liquid‐liquid extraction (LLE). This situation results from process design concepts which rely mostly on empirical work, involving high experimental effort and cost. Additionally, the limited throughput potential, mostly caused by complex fluid dynamics and difficult phase separation, is problematic. In this work the current state and potential of micro technology for LLE is discussed based on literature data. Afterwards, process simulations with a distributed plug flow model are used to access the specific advantages of this technology and to identify critical process parameters.
Electro‐Assisted Reduction of CO2 to CO and Formaldehyde by (TOA)6[α‐SiW11O39Co(_)] Polyoxometalate
Authors: Girardi Marcelo , Blanchard Sébastien , Griveau Sophie , Simon Philippe , Fontecave Marc , Bedioui Fethi , Proust Anna
Published: July 2015

We report here on the multiproton‐multielectron electrochemical reduction of CO2 in homogeneous solution by using (TOA)6[α‐SiW11O39Co(_)] (TOA = tetraoctyl ammonium; _ = vacant position in the coordination sphere of Co) as an electrocatalyst. First, the electrochemical behavior of (TOA)6[α‐SiW11O39Co(_)] was analyzed in detail by cyclic voltammetry in dichloromethane, studying the influence of the presence of protons and/or CO2. These preliminary results were further used to optimize the conditions of electrolysis in terms of reduction potentials. Analysis of the electrolysis products in the gas and liquid phases show the formation of CO and HCHO without formation of H2. Our results tend to show that the (TOA)6[α‐SiW11O39Co(_)] polyoxometalate is a catalyst for CO2 electroreduction, with unique selectivity.
Synthesis and Characterization of α‐­NiMoO4 Nanorods for Supercapacitor ­Application
Authors: Jothi Palani Raja , Shanthi Kannan , Salunkhe Rahul R. , Pramanik Malay , Malgras Victor , Alshehri Saad M. , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: July 2015

We report the synthesis of electrode materials based on one‐dimensional α‐NiMoO4 nanorods for application as a supercapacitor. The structure and morphology of the electrodes were characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction, Raman analysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The maximum specific capacitance obtained from electrochemical measurements on a standard three‐electrode system was 730 F g–1 at a scan rate of 5 mV s–1. Furthermore, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was fabricated in which the NiMoO4 nanorods were used as the positive electrode and reduced graphene oxide was used as the negative electrode. The maximum specific energy obtained from the ASC study was 12.31 Wh kg–1 at a specific current of 0.5 A g–1 in an aqueous KOH electrolyte. This ASC cell showed good stability with 85 % capacitance retention up to 2000 cycles. These results reveal that our ASC shows a high performance and specific energy as well as good cycling stability.
Synthesis of Diverse 6‐Oxa‐allocolchicinoids by a Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling, Acid‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Transacetali­zation Strategy
Authors: Yadav Dharmendra B. , Taleli Lebusetsa , van der Westhuyzen Alet E. , Fernandes Manuel A. , Dragoun Maxim , Prokop Aram , Schmalz Hans‐Günther , de Koning Charles B. , van Otterlo Willem A. L.
Published: July 2015

The synthesis of allocolchicine analogues is of importance as these compounds have been found to possess promising anticancer activity by affecting tubulin polymerization. In this paper, the synthesis of 28 novel substituted 6‐oxa‐allocolchicinoids is reported. The key steps involved in the synthesis were a Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction, followed by an acid‐catalyzed intramolecular transacetalization to afford the desired 5‐alkoxy‐5,7‐dihydrodibenzo[c,e]oxepines. In addition, when thiophenol and phenol were used in the transacetalization step, the 5‐(phenylsulfanyl)‐5,7‐dihydrodibenzo[c,e]oxepine and 4‐(5,7‐dihydrodibenzo[c,e]oxepin‐5‐yl)phenol skeletons were obtained, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the synthetic compounds was unfortunately not impressive; however, one of the compounds was shown to sensitize vincristine‐resistant leukemia and lymphoma cells to vincristine, a result vindicating further synthetic studies.
Two‐Step Synthesis of Blue Luminescent (Pyrrol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐(aza)indazoles Based on a Three‐Component Coupling–Cyclocondensation Sequence
Authors: Nordmann Jan , Eierhoff Svenja , Denißen Melanie , Mayer Bernhard , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: July 2015

(Pyrrol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐(aza)indazoles can be efficiently prepared by a two‐step process that consists of a consecutive three‐component coupling–cyclocondensation synthesis to give ortho‐halo‐3‐acylpyrrol‐3‐yl‐substituted (hetero)arenes followed by a cyclization–condensation–SNAr sequence. Almost all derivatives display an intense blue emission upon excitation in the near UV with enormous Stokes shifts (6500–8300 cm–1) and considerable high fluorescence quantum yields (Φf = 0.28–0.46). Electronic transitions can be plausibly rationalized by TD‐DFT computations performed on DFT‐optimized geometries. Reversible protonation leads to static fluorescence quenching in narrow pH‐ranges, which qualifies the title compounds as favorable ON/OFF fluorescence switching systems.
First Total Synthesis of Ganglioside GAA‐7 from Starfish Asterias amurensis versi­color
Authors: Tamai Hideki , Imamura Akihiro , Ogawa Junya , Ando Hiromune , Ishida Hideharu , Kiso Makoto
Published: July 2015

The first total synthesis of neuritogenic ganglioside GAA‐7 was achieved using the glucosyl ceramide (Glc‐Cer) cassette approach. The stereocenter triad within the ceramide moiety of the target molecule was efficiently established from D‐lyxose. The assembly of the ceramide moiety was followed by glycosylation with glucosyl donors to give Glc‐Cer cassettes, which underwent conjugation with the oligosaccharide moiety, followed by global deprotection. By using the most suitable Glc‐Cer cassette, the target molecule was successfully synthesized. In vitro evaluation indicated that the synthesized GAA‐7 and its glycan moiety both showed strong neuritogenic activity towards neuron‐like rat adrenal pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells in the presence of neurite growth factor.
Exploring the Feasibility of Using Writing Process Features to Assess Text Production Skills
Authors: Deane Paul , Zhang Mo
Published: July 2015

In this report, we examine the feasibility of characterizing writing performance using process features derived from a keystroke log. Using data derived from a set ofCBAL™writing assessments, we examine the following research questions: (a) How stable are the keystroke timing and process features across testing occasions? (b) How consistent are the patterns of feature–human correlation across genres and topics? (c) How accurately can we predict human ratings on writing fundamentals using a combination of the keystroke timing and process features, and what are the contributions of each feature to the reliable variance in the human ratings? (d) If we train a predictive model on one prompt, how well do its predictions generalize to the other prompts of the same or different genre? The results of the study indicate that keystroke log features vary considerably in stability across testing occasions and display somewhat different patterns of feature–human correlation across genres and topics. However, using the most stable features, we can obtain moderate to strong prediction of human essay scores, and those models generalize reasonably well across prompts though more strongly within than across writing genres.
the author replies
Authors: Ubel Peter A.
Published: July 2015

A response to “Rationing Is Still Rationing,” by Robert J. Wells.
Can Voice Be Given If No One is Listening?
Authors: Jack Chelsea A.
Published: July 2015

A commentary on “Men and Abortion Decisions,” by John Hardwig, in the March‐April 2015 issue.
Why Health Care Is Going Green
Authors: Sadler Blair L
Published: July 2015

Ten years ago, when I was president and chief executive officer of Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego, if you had asked me about our commitment to environmental sustainability or about the hospital's carbon footprint, I would have given you a blank look. The issues were simply not on my radar screen. And that was true of most health care leaders.

The good news? Environmental sustainability is becoming a health care priority, and exciting progress is occurring. In Greening Health Care: How Hospitals Can Heal the Planet, Kathy Gerwig eloquently relates how one leading large health care system, Kaiser Permanente, achieved remarkable results in responding to the environmental health challenge over the past several years.
Investigation of ifosfamide and chloroacetaldehyde renal toxicity through integration of in vitro liver–kidney microfluidic data and pharmacokinetic‐system biology models
Authors: Leclerc Eric , Hamon Jeremy , Bois Frederic Yves
Published: July 2015

We have integrated in vitro and in silico data to describe the toxicity of chloroacetaldehyde (CAA) on renal cells via its production from the metabolism of ifosfamide (IFO) by hepatic cells. A pharmacokinetic (PK) model described the production of CAA by the hepatocytes and its transport to the renal cells. A system biology model was coupled to the PK model to describe the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by CAA in the renal cells. In response to the ROS production, the metabolism of glutathione (GSH) and its depletion were modeled by the action of an NFE2L2 gene‐dependent pathway. The model parameters were estimated in a Bayesian context via Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulations based on microfluidic experiments and literature in vitro data. Hepatic IFO and CAA in vitro intrinsic clearances were estimated to be 1.85 x 10‐9 μL s–1 cell–1 and 0.185 x 10‐9 μL s–1 cell–1,respectively (corresponding to an in vivo intrinsic IFO clearance estimate of 1.23 l h–1, to be compared to IFO published values ranging from 3 to 10 l h–1). After model calibration, simulations made at therapeutic doses of IFO showed CAA renal intracellular concentrations ranging from 11 to 131 μM. Intracellular CAA concentrations above 70 μM induced intense ROS production and GSH depletion. Those responses were time and dose dependent, showing transient and non‐linear kinetics. Those results are in agreement with literature data reporting that intracellular CAA toxic concentrations range from 35 to 320 μM, after therapeutic ifosfamide dosing. The results were also consistent with in vitro CAA renal cytotoxicity data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Large‐scale asynchronous and distributed multidimensional replica exchange molecular simulations and efficiency analysis
Authors: Xia Junchao , Flynn William F. , Gallicchio Emilio , Zhang Bin W. , He Peng , Tan Zhiqiang , Levy Ronald M.
Published: July 2015

We describe methods to perform replica exchange molecular dynamics (REMD) simulations asynchronously (ASyncRE). The methods are designed to facilitate large scale REMD simulations on grid computing networks consisting of heterogeneous and distributed computing environments as well as on homogeneous high‐performance clusters. We have implemented these methods on NSF (National Science Foundation) XSEDE (Extreme Science and Engineering Discovery Environment) clusters and BOINC (Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing) distributed computing networks at Temple University and Brooklyn College at CUNY (the City University of New York). They are also being implemented on the IBM World Community Grid. To illustrate the methods, we have performed extensive (more than 60 ms in aggregate) simulations for the beta‐cyclodextrin‐heptanoate host‐guest system in the context of one‐ and two‐dimensional ASyncRE, and we used the results to estimate absolute binding free energies using the binding energy distribution analysis method. We propose ways to improve the efficiency of REMD simulations: these include increasing the number of exchanges attempted after a specified molecular dynamics (MD) period up to the fast exchange limit and/or adjusting the MD period to allow sufficient internal relaxation within each thermodynamic state. Although ASyncRE simulations generally require long MD periods (>picoseconds) per replica exchange cycle to minimize the overhead imposed by heterogeneous computing networks, we found that it is possible to reach an efficiency similar to conventional synchronous REMD, by optimizing the combination of the MD period and the number of exchanges attempted per cycle. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development and Validation of an Algorithm to Identify Planned Readmissions From Claims Data
Authors: Horwitz Leora I. , Grady Jacqueline N. , Cohen Dorothy B. , Lin Zhenqiu , Volpe Mark , Ngo Chi K. , Masica Andrew L. , Long Theodore , Wang Jessica , Keenan Megan , Montague Julia , Suter Lisa G. , Ross Joseph S. , Drye Elizabeth E. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Bernheim Susannah M.
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

It is desirable not to include planned readmissions in readmission measures because they represent deliberate, scheduled care.

OBJECTIVES

To develop an algorithm to identify planned readmissions, describe its performance characteristics, and identify improvements.

DESIGN

Consensus‐driven algorithm development and chart review validation study at 7 acute‐care hospitals in 2 health systems.

PATIENTS

For development, all discharges qualifying for the publicly reported hospital‐wide readmission measure. For validation, all qualifying same‐hospital readmissions that were characterized by the algorithm as planned, and a random sampling of same‐hospital readmissions that were characterized as unplanned.

MEASUREMENTS

We calculated weighted sensitivity and specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the algorithm (version 2.1), compared to gold standard chart review.

RESULTS

In consultation with 27 experts, we developed an algorithm that characterizes 7.8% of readmissions as planned. For validation we reviewed 634 readmissions. The weighted sensitivity of the algorithm was 45.1% overall, 50.9% in large teaching centers and 40.2% in smaller community hospitals. The weighted specificity was 95.9%, positive predictive value was 51.6%, and negative predictive value was 94.7%. We identified 4 minor changes to improve algorithm performance. The revised algorithm had a weighted sensitivity 49.8% (57.1% at large hospitals), weighted specificity 96.5%, positive predictive value 58.7%, and negative predictive value 94.5%. Positive predictive value was poor for the 2 most common potentially planned procedures: diagnostic cardiac catheterization (25%) and procedures involving cardiac devices (33%).

CONCLUSIONS

An administrative claims‐based algorithm to identify planned readmissions is feasible and can facilitate public reporting of primarily unplanned readmissions. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:670–677. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Profiling the Heritage Experience in Macao's Historic Center
Authors: Suntikul Wantanee , Jachna Timothy
Published: July 2015

This paper applies Pine and Gilmore's four realms of experience – Esthetic, Escapism, Entertainment and Education – to investigate Macao's Historic Center in terms of the experience value attached to different heritage sites by tourists, with implications for understanding the experience profile of heritage tourism sites in general. The research is based on a survey of 700 tourists. Dominant experience profiles for the sites, which differ from that of the Historic Center as a whole, are identified and discussed, as are the implications of specific synergies identified between different dimensions of the experience of these heritage sites. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facial palsy after neck arteriovenous fistula embolization
Authors: Lee Dong Hoon , Lee Joon Kyoo , Yoon Tae Mi , Lim Sang Chul , Kim Tae Sun
Published: July 2015

Facial palsy after embolization of neck arteriovenous fistula is an extremely rare complication. In our case, complete facial palsy occurred after embolization and was successfully treated with superficial parotidectomy, vessel ligation, and plug removal. We report the first case of unusual facial palsy that developed 13 days after neck arteriovenous fistula embolization. As a result of our findings, we recommend, when a patient suffers from acute ipsilateral facial palsy after arteriovenous fistula embolization, the clinician should consider the possibility of complications of embolization, and immediate and appropriate management should be performed. Laryngoscope, 125:2125–2128, 2015
Late tracheotomy is associated with higher morbidity and mortality in mechanically ventilated patients
Authors: Patel Sapna A. , Plowman Emily K. , Halum Stacey , Merati Albert L. , Sardesai Maya G.
Published: July 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine whether the timing of tracheotomy placement impacts ventilation weaning status and mortality.

Study Design

Multi‐institution retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Demographic data, procedural details, and clinical outcomes were recorded for patients undergoing tracheotomy for prolonged mechanical ventilation across eight sites. The study group was divided into two groups: those undergoing tracheotomy within 14 days of initiation of mechanical ventilation and those undergoing tracheotomy at or after 14 days. Groups were compared for primary outcome measures of mortality and ability to wean from mechanical ventilation within the study period.

Results

Of the 539 patients intubated for ventilator dependence with complete data available, 280 (51.9%) underwent tracheotomy within 14 days. Patients who underwent late tracheotomy were 1.72 times more likely to remain ventilator dependent during the follow‐up period (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12‐2.66), and had a 40% increased risk of death (odds ratio: 1.4, 95% CI: 0.96‐1.99).

Conclusions

In this multicenter retrospective review of tracheotomy outcomes, late tracheotomy placement (>14 days) was associated with increased mortality and prolonged ventilator dependence. Standardized multidisciplinary management protocols for prolonged mechanical ventilation are recommended, and future work should confirm these results in a prospective manner.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 125:2134–2138, 2015
Past, Present, and Future of Gay and Lesbian Consumer Research: Critical Review of the Quest for the Queer Dollar
Authors: Ginder Whitney , Byun Sang‐Eun
Published: July 2015

This article provides a comprehensive, interdisciplinary review of the extant literature regarding the gay and lesbian consumer market. Through the critical review of 38 scholarly, peer‐reviewed articles, four primary streams of research are identified, and the significant findings and avenues for future academic inquiry are highlighted. Additionally, this review identifies the research trends in terms of publications, theoretical approaches, research design, and methodology spanning from the earliest publication in 1993 to 2013. This study provides important theoretical and managerial implications to inform business practice, public policy, and future scholarly research.
Paracrine CCL20 loop induces epithelial‐mesenchymal transition in breast epithelial cells
Authors: Marsigliante S. , Vetrugno C. , Muscella A.
Published: July 2015

We previously found that CCL20 induced primarily cultured healthy breast cell proliferation and migration. The objective of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that CCL20 modulated the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) of primarily cultured healthy breast epithelial cells and the angiogenesis in areas adjacent to the tumor. Key results showed that CCL20 (a) down‐regulated E‐cadherin and ZO‐1; (b) up‐regulated N‐cadherin, vimentin, and Snail expressions; (c) increased mRNA and secretion of VEGF and (d) increased angiogenic micro vessel sprouting. Thus, the signal transduction pathways evoked by CCL20 were investigated. We showed that NF‐kB p65 down‐regulation (by small interfering RNA, siRNA) reversed CCL20‐induced Snail and blocked the up‐regulation of vimentin and N‐cadherin mRNAs. Furthermore, PI3K/AKT inhibition (by LY294002) completely blocked CCL20‐induced Snail and NF‐kB activation. Inhibition of JNK1/2 (by SP60125) or PKC‐α (by siRNA) or src (by PP1) blocked NF‐kB activation and Snail expression suggesting that these kinases are all upstream of NF‐kB/Snail. Inhibition of mTOR (by rapamycin) abolished the effects of CCL20 on N‐cadherin and vimentin protein synthesis. Furthermore, siRNA of PKC‐δ inhibited the phosphorylation of CCL20‐induced mTOR and S6, increased vimentin and N‐cadherin expressions and, finally, blocked the CCL20 induced‐EMT. CCL20 increased mRNA and secretion of VEGF by healthy breast cells by using PKC‐α, src, Akt, NF‐kB, and Snail signalling. In summary, tumor cells signal to the surrounding healthy cells through CCL20 inducing the modulation of the expression of molecules involved in EMT and promoting angiogenesis directly and indirectly through the secretion of VEGF, a major contributor to angiogenesis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The form of solutions and periodicity for some systems of third‐order rational difference equations
Authors: El‐Dessoky Mohamed M.
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we deal with the system that has solutions and the periodicity character of the following systems of rational difference equations with order three

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma3547:mma3547-math-0001
with initial conditions x−2,x−1,x0,y−2,y−1, and y0 that are arbitrary nonzero real numbers. Some numerical examples will be given to illustrate our results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the best constant in a Wente‐type inequality for the fractional Laplace operator
Authors: Jleli Mohamed , Samet Bessem
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we consider the solution to Wente's problem with the fractional Laplace operator (−Δ)α/2, where 0 < α < 2. We derive a Wente‐type inequality for this problem. Next, we compute the optimal constant in such inequality. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transformations of node‐balanced routing problems
Authors: Martinez‐Sykora Antonio , Bektaş Tolga
Published: July 2015

This article describes a polynomial transformation for a class of unit‐demand vehicle routing problems, named node‐balanced routing problems (BRP), where the number of nodes on each route is restricted to be in an interval such that the workload across the routes is balanced. The transformation is general in that it can be applied to single or multiple depot, homogeneous or heterogeneous fleet BRPs, and any combination thereof. At the heart of the procedure lies transforming the BRP into a generalized traveling salesman problem (TSP), which can then be transformed into a TSP. The transformed graph exhibits special properties which can be exploited to significantly reduce the number of arcs, and used to construct a formulation for the resulting TSP that amounts to no more than that of a constrained assignment problem. Computational results on a number of instances are presented. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 370–387, 2015
IFS: Intelligent flow sampling for network security–an adaptive approach
Authors: Bartos Karel , Rehak Martin
Published: July 2015

In order to cope with an increasing volume of network traffic, flow sampling methods are deployed to reduce the volume of log data stored for monitoring, attack detection and forensic purposes. Sampling frequently changes the statistical properties of the data and can reduce the effectiveness of subsequent analysis or processing. We propose two concepts that mitigate the negative impact of sampling on the data. Late sampling is based on a simple idea that the features used by the analytic algorithms can be extracted before the sampling and attached to the surviving flows. The surviving flows thus carry the representation of the original statistical distribution in these attached features. The second concept we introduce is that of adaptive sampling. Adaptive sampling deliberatively skews the distribution of the surviving data to over‐represent the rare flows or flows with rare feature values. This preserves the variability of the data and is critical for the analysis of malicious traffic, such as the detection of stealthy, hidden threats. Our approach has been extensively validated on standard NetFlow data, as well as on HTTP proxy logs that approximate the use‐case of enriched IPFIX for the network forensics. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social networks and social norms are associated with obesity treatment outcomes
Authors: Leahey Tricia M. , Doyle Caroline Y. , Xu Xiaomeng , Bihuniak Jessica , Wing Rena R.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To examine whether overweight social network members and normative influence for obesity are associated with weight loss outcomes during obesity treatment.

Methods

Participants (N = 214) in a behavioral weight loss trial reported (a) the weight status of various members of their social network and (b) the level of obesogenic normative influence within their social network. Weight was objectively assessed before and after treatment.

Results

At baseline, participants with partners and best friends who were overweight and those with more children and relatives who were overweight had higher BMIs (P's < 0.03). However, social norms for obesity were not associated with baseline BMI. During treatment, participants lost an average of 4.4% of initial body weight, and social influence factors were adversely associated with weight loss outcomes. Having more casual friends who were overweight at baseline and being part of a social network with stronger social norms for unhealthy eating predicted poorer weight losses (P's < 0.023). Remaining social influence factors and changes in social influence were not associated with treatment outcomes.

Conclusions

Whereas weight status may “cluster” in social networks, only weight status of casual friends and normative influence for unhealthy eating were associated with obesity treatment outcomes.
Exposure to benzodiazepines (anxiolytics, hypnotics and related drugs) in seven European electronic healthcare databases: a cross‐national descriptive study from the PROTECT‐EU Project
Authors: Huerta Consuelo , Abbing‐Karahagopian Victoria , Requena Gema , Oliva Belén , Alvarez Yolanda , Gardarsdottir Helga , Miret Montserrat , Schneider Cornelia , Gil Miguel , Souverein Patrick C. , De Bruin Marie L. , Slattery Jim , De Groot Mark C. H. , Hesse Ulrik , Rottenkolber Marietta , Schmiedl Sven , Montero Dolores , Bate Andrew , Ruigomez Ana , García‐Rodríguez Luis Alberto , Johansson Saga , de Vries Frank , Schlienger Raymond G. , Reynolds Robert F. , Klungel Olaf H. , de Abajo Francisco José
Published: July 2015

Purpose

Studies on drug utilization usually do not allow direct cross‐national comparisons because of differences in the respective applied methods. This study aimed to compare time trends in BZDs prescribing by applying a common protocol and analyses plan in seven European electronic healthcare databases.

Methods

Crude and standardized prevalence rates of drug prescribing from 2001–2009 were calculated in databases from Spain, United Kingdon (UK), The Netherlands, Germany and Denmark. Prevalence was stratified by age, sex, BZD type [(using ATC codes), i.e. BZD‐anxiolytics BZD‐hypnotics, BZD‐related drugs and clomethiazole], indication and number of prescription.

Results

Crude prevalence rates of BZDs prescribing ranged from 570 to 1700 per 10 000 person‐years over the study period. Standardization by age and sex did not substantially change the differences. Standardized prevalence rates increased in the Spanish (+13%) and UK databases (+2% and +8%) over the study period, while they decreased in the Dutch databases (−4% and −22%), the German (−12%) and Danish (−26%) database. Prevalence of anxiolytics outweighed that of hypnotics in the Spanish, Dutch and Bavarian databases, but the reverse was shown in the UK and Danish databases. Prevalence rates consistently increased with age and were two‐fold higher in women than in men in all databases. A median of 18% of users received 10 or more prescriptions in 2008.

Conclusion

Although similar methods were applied, the prevalence of BZD prescribing varied considerably across different populations. Clinical factors related to BZDs and characteristics of the databases may explain these differences. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photovoltaics Literature survey (no. 120)
Authors: Hameiri Ziv
Published: July 2015

In order to help readers stay up‐to‐date in the field, each issue of Progress in Photovoltaics will contain a list of recently published journal articles that are most relevant to its aims and scope. This list is drawn from an extremely wide range of journals, including IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics, Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, Renewable Energy, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Journal of Applied Physics, and Applied Physics Letters. To assist readers, the list is separated into broad categories, but please note that these classifications are by no means strict. Also note that inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality. If you have any suggestions please email Ziv Hameiri at ziv.hameiri@unsw.edu.au.
Tunnel magnetoresistance of thin‐film nanogranular metal–dielectric composites (x)Ni–(1−x)PNBZT
Authors: Kalgin A. V. , Gridnev S. A. , Gribe Z. H. , Kashirin M. A.
Published: July 2015

Thin‐film nanogranular metal–dielectric composites (x)Ni–(1−x)[Pb0.81Sr0.04(Na0.5Bi0.5)0.15][(Zr0.575Ti0.425)]O3 (denoted as (x)Ni–(1−x)PNBZT) were prepared by the ion‐beam sputtering method. The X‐ray diffraction analysis has revealed the presence of two phases in the composites: a crystalline Ni phase and an amorphous PNBZT phase. Composites (x)Ni–(1−x)PNBZT with compositions below the percolation threshold manifest a negative magnetoresistance, whose highest values of 0.13% at 287 K and 0.78% at 77 K are observed near the percolation threshold at хс = 35 at.% for a composite sample of 0.31Ni–0.69PNBZT placed in a constant magnetic field with the strength of 8000 Oe. The magnetoresistance of the composites (x)Ni–(1−x)PNBZT is increased with the growth of the constant magnetic field strength, and the dependence remains the same as a polarity of the magnetic field is varied. The charge transport in the composites (x)Ni–(1−x)PNBZT over a temperature interval of 188–287 K is shown to be attributed to the inelastic resonant tunneling of electrons through energy barriers in a dielectric layer of PNBZT between crystalline ferromagnetic nanogranules of Ni. Therefore, to explain the experimentally established regularities of the negative magnetoresistance, the tunnel magnetoresistance model has been used.
Foldover Plans for Resolution IV Designs with 11 to 16 Factors
Authors: Galindo J. Guadalupe , Rios Armando J. , Simpson James R. , Arias Elías H.
Published: July 2015

When there is a concern about the best way to apply the foldover technique to a Resolution IV fraction, it is often helpful to consult the literature available. Unfortunately, foldover plans for Resolution IV designs with 11 ≤ k factors are not provided. This article shows a methodology for the selection and classification of foldover plans for two‐level fractional factorial designs with 11 to 16 factors based on an exhaustive search and computer programming. The recommended foldovers are presented. This research extends the current foldover plans available for Resolution IV designs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increasing Hamiltonian paths in random edge orderings
Authors: Lavrov Mikhail , Loh Po‐Shen
Published: July 2015

Let f be an edge ordering of Kn: a bijection . For an edge , we call f(e) the label of e. An increasing path in Kn is a simple path (visiting each vertex at most once) such that the label on each edge is greater than the label on the previous edge. We let S(f) be the number of edges in the longest increasing path. Chvátal and Komlós raised the question of estimating m(n): the minimum value of S(f) over all orderings f of Kn. The best known bounds on m(n) are , due respectively to Graham and Kleitman, and to Calderbank, Chung, and Sturtevant. Although the problem is natural, it has seen essentially no progress for three decades.

In this paper, we consider the average case, when the ordering is chosen uniformly at random. We discover the surprising result that in the random setting, S(f) often takes its maximum possible value of n – 1 (visiting all of the vertices with an increasing Hamiltonian path). We prove that this occurs with probability at least about 1/ e. We also prove that with probability 1‐ o(1), there is an increasing path of length at least 0.85 n, suggesting that this Hamiltonian (or near‐Hamiltonian) phenomenon may hold asymptotically almost surely. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 48, 588–611, 2016
Iterative big data clustering algorithms: a review
Authors: Mohebi Amin , Aghabozorgi Saeed , Ying Wah Teh , Herawan Tutut , Yahyapour Ramin
Published: July 2015

Enterprises today are dealing with the massive size of data, which have been explosively increasing. The key requirements to address this challenge are to extract, analyze, and process data in a timely manner. Clustering is an essential data mining tool that plays an important role for analyzing big data. However, large‐scale data clustering has become a challenging task because of the large amount of information that emerges from technological progress in many areas, including finance and business informatics. Accordingly, researchers have dealt with parallel clustering algorithms using parallel programming models to address this issue. MapReduce is one of the most famous frameworks, and it has attracted great attention because of its flexibility, ease of programming, and fault tolerance. However, the framework has evident performance limitations, especially for iterative programs. This study will first review the proposed iterative frameworks that extended MapReduce to support iterative algorithms. We summarize these techniques, discuss their uniqueness and limitations, and explain how they address the challenging issues of iterative programs. We also perform an in‐depth review to understand the problems and the solving techniques for parallel clustering algorithms. Hence, we believe that no well‐rounded review provides a significant comparison among parallel clustering algorithms using MapReduce. This work aims to serve as a stepping stone for researchers who are studying big data clustering algorithms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.