bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversification and use of bioenergy to maintain future grasslands
Authors: Donnison Iain S. , Fraser Mariecia D.
Published: February 2016

Grassland agriculture is experiencing a number of threats including declining profitability and loss of area to other land uses including expansion of the built environment as well as from cropland and forestry. The use of grassland as a natural resource either in terms of existing vegetation and land cover or planting of new species for bioenergy and other nonfood applications presents an opportunity, and potential solution, to maintain the broader ecosystem services that perennial grasslands provide as well as to improve the options for grassland farmers and their communities. This paper brings together different grass or grassland‐based studies and considers them as part of a continuum of strategies that, when also combined with improvements in grassland production systems, will improve the overall efficiency of grasslands as an important natural resource and enable a greater area to be managed, replanted or conserved. These diversification options relate to those most likely to be available to farmers and land owners in the marginally economic or uneconomic grasslands of middle to northern Europe and specifically in the UK. Grasslands represent the predominant global land use and so these strategies are likely to be relevant to other areas although the grass species used may vary. The options covered include the use of biomass derived from the management of grasses in the urban and semi urban environment, semi‐natural grassland systems as part of ecosystem management, pasture in addition to livestock production, and the planting and cropping of dedicated energy grasses. The adoption of such approaches would not only increase income from economically marginal grasslands, but would also mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from livestock production and help fund conservation of these valuable grassland ecosystems and landscapes, which is increasingly becoming a challenge.
To Increase Energy Consumption Management Program Participation, Think Like a Bank
Authors: Oberle Chris
Published: February 2016

Everyone is aware that their bank offers home equity loans. But the way banks get their customers to actually take out home equity loans is by marketing to them with clear, targeted messages about how such a loan could specifically benefit them.
What Are Near‐Term Oil‐Price Prospects and Their Effect on Gas?
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: February 2016

For TV watchers of my generation, “Bobby was in the shower” has special meaning. On the original Dallas, popular character Bobby Ewing was killed off at the end of a season. The next season was spent readjusting the world around Bobby's loss—until the end of the last episode, when his wife woke up and there he was in the shower—the whole sad season had all been a dream.
The velocity structure of a fossil spreading centre in the Southwest Sub‐basin, South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Jiabiao , Ruan Aiguo , Wu Zhenli , Yu Zhiteng , Niu Xiongwei , Ding Weiwei
Published: February 2016

We present results from an ocean bottom seismometer experiment surveying the fossil spreading centre in the Southwest Sub‐basin of the South China Sea. The detailed velocity model shows that oceanic layer 2 exhibits across‐axis variations in thickness and velocity, whereas oceanic layer 3 displays a variation in crustal thickness. A low‐angle (24°) SE‐dipping oceanic detachment fault is proposed to explain the anomalous structure on the NW side of the spreading centre, which exhibits uplifting of the upper mantle beneath a thinned oceanic crust. The inferred oceanic detachment fault was at its initial stage, localized within the basaltic crust and did not exhume lower crust. We suggest that the low‐velocity (7.6–7.9 km/s) body located within the upper mantle beneath the footwall of the detachment fault is caused by both mantle serpentinization and partial melting. The difference in crustal thickness in the Southwest Sub‐basin indicates that the magma supply varied in time and space during or even after the seafloor spreading. Compared with other fossil spreading ridges, the fossil spreading centre of the northeast Southwest Sub‐basin studied here represents a third type of fossil spreading ridge, characterized by a reduced melt supply at the waning stage of spreading and a strong post‐spreading magmatism. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association between multidisciplinary team care approach and survival rates in patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liao Chun‐Ta , Kang Chung‐Jan , Lee Li‐Yu , Hsueh Chuen , Lin Chien‐Yu , Fan Kang‐Hsing , Wang Hung‐Ming , Ng Shu‐Hang , Lin Chih‐Hung , Tsao Chung‐Kan , Fang Tuan‐Jen , Huang Shiang‐Fu , Chang Kai‐Ping , Chang Ya‐Lan , Yang Lan Yan , Yen Tzu‐Chen
Published: February 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether multidisciplinary team care (MDTC) is associated with outcomes in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

We retrospectively examined 1616 patients with oral cavity SCC who underwent radical surgery between 1996 and 2011. The study participants were classified into 2 subgroups according to the use of MDTC.

Results

Five‐year outcomes were significantly better in the MDTC group than in the no‐MDTC group (neck control, 88% vs 84%, p = .0397; disease‐specific survival [DSS], 83% vs 78%, p = .0114; and overall survival [OS], 70% vs 64%, p = .0002, respectively). Among patients who were scheduled to undergo adjuvant therapy, the number who completed their adjuvant treatment was significantly higher in the MDTC group than in the no‐MDTC group (90% vs 60% to 70%, p < .001).

Conclusion

The association of MDTC with improved outcomes may be potentially explained by a better therapeutic alliance between the patient and the tumor board, and/or a greater thoroughness in clinical management. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1544–E1553, 2016
Atorvastatin and fluvastatin are associated with dose‐dependent reductions in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, among patients with hepatitis C virus: Results from ERCHIVES
Authors: Simon Tracey G. , Bonilla Hector , Yan Peng , Chung Raymond T. , Butt Adeel A.
Published: February 2016

Statins are associated with delayed fibrosis progression and a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV). Limited data exist regarding the most effective type and dose of statin in this population. We sought to determine the impact of statin type and dose upon fibrosis progression and HCC in patients with HCV. Using the Electronically Retrieved Cohort of HCV Infected Veterans (ERCHIVES) database, we identified all subjects initiated on HCV antibody (anti‐HCV) therapy from 2001 to 2014, and all incident cases of cirrhosis and HCC. Statin use was measured using cumulative defined daily dose (cDDD). Multivariable Cox's proportional hazard regression models were used to examine the relationship between statin use and development of cirrhosis and HCC. Among 9,135 eligible subjects, 1,649 developed cirrhosis and 239 developed incident HCC. Statin use was associated with a 44% reduction in development of cirrhosis (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 0.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.53, 0.68). The adjusted HRs (95% CI) of fibrosis progression with statin cDDD 28‐89, 89‐180, and >180 were 0.74 (0.59, 0.93), 0.71 (0.59, 0.88), and 0.6 (0.53, 0.68), respectively. Mean change in FIB‐4 score with atorvastatin (n = 944) and fluvastatin (n = 34) was ‐0.17 and ‐0.13, respectively (P = 0.04), after adjustment for baseline FIB‐4 score and established predictors of cirrhosis. Statin use was also associated with a 49% reduction in incident HCC (adjusted HR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.72). A similar dose‐response relationship was observed. Conclusion: In patients with chronic HCV, statin use was associated with a dose‐dependent reduction in incident cirrhosis and HCC. Atorvastatin and fluvastatin were associated with the most significant antifibrotic effects, compared with other statins. (Hepatology 2016;64:47–57)
Backward snow depth reconstruction at high spatial resolution based on time‐lapse photography
Authors: Revuelto Jesús , Jonas Tobias , López‐Moreno Juan‐Ignacio
Published: February 2016

We report a methodology for reconstructing the daily snow depth distribution at high spatial resolution in a small Pyrenean catchment using time‐lapse photographs and snow depletion rates derived from an on‐site measuring meteorological station. The results were compared with the observed snow depth distribution, determined on a number of separate occasions using a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS). The time‐lapse photographs were projected onto a digital elevation model of the study site, and converted into snow presence/absence information. The melt‐out date (MOD; first occurrence of melt out after peak snow accumulation) was obtained from the projected photograph series. Commencing the backward reconstruction for each grid cell at the MOD, the method uses simulated snow depth depletion rates using a temperature index approach, which are extrapolated to the grid cells of the domain to arrive at the snow distribution of the previous day. Two variants of the reconstruction techniques were applied (1) using a spatially constant degree day factor (DDF) for calculating the daily expected snow depth depletion rate, and (2) allowing a spatially distributed DDF calculated from two consecutive TLS acquisitions compared to the snow depth depletion rate observed at the meteorological station. Validation revealed that both methods performed well (average R2 = 0.68; standard RMSE = 0.58), with better results obtained from the spatially distributed approach. Nevertheless, the spatially corrected DDF reconstruction, which requires TLS data, suggests that the constant DDF approach is an efficient, and for most applications sufficiently accurate and easily reproducible method. The results highlight the usefulness of time‐lapse photography for not only determining the snow covered area, but also for estimating the spatial distribution of snow depth. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An open framework for automated chemical hazard assessment based on GreenScreen for Safer Chemicals: A proof of concept
Authors: Wehage Kristopher , Chenhansa Panan , Schoenung Julie M
Published: February 2016

GreenScreen® for Safer Chemicals is a framework for comparative chemical hazard assessment. It is the first transparent, open and publicly accessible framework of its kind, allowing manufacturers and governmental agencies to make informed decisions about the chemicals and substances used in consumer products and buildings. In the GreenScreen® benchmarking process, chemical hazards are assessed and classified based on 18 hazard endpoints from up to 30 different sources. The result is a simple numerical benchmark score and accompanying assessment report that allows users to flag chemicals of concern and identify safer alternatives. Although the screening process is straightforward, aggregating and sorting hazard data is tedious, time-consuming, and prone to human error. In light of these challenges, the present work demonstrates the usage of automation to cull chemical hazard data from publicly available internet resources, assign metadata, and perform a GreenScreen® hazard assessment using the GreenScreen® “List Translator.” The automated technique, written as a module in the Python programming language, generates GreenScreen® List Translation data for over 3000 chemicals in approximately 30 s. Discussion of the potential benefits and limitations of automated techniques is provided. By embedding the library into a web-based graphical user interface, the extensibility of the library is demonstrated. The accompanying source code is made available to the hazard assessment community. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:167–176. © 2016 SETAC

Key Points

The present work demonstrates the use of computer automation to perform chemical hazard alternatives assessments. Over 3000 chemicals were translated using the GreenScreen® for Safer Chemicals List Translator in less than 30 s. The source code is publicly available as a Python module.
A randomized, placebo‐controlled, phase 1/2 study of tivantinib (ARQ 197) in combination with irinotecan and cetuximab in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer with wild‐type KRAS who have received first‐line systemic therapy
Authors: Eng Cathy , Bessudo Alberto , Hart Lowell L. , Severtsev Aleksey , Gladkov Oleg , Müller Lothar , Kopp Mikhail V. , Vladimirov Vladimir , Langdon Robert , Kotiv Bogdan , Barni Sandro , Hsu Ching , Bolotin Ellen , von Roemeling Reinhard , Schwartz Brian , Bendell Johanna C.
Published: February 2016

Cetuximab in combination with an irinotecan‐containing regimen is a standard treatment in patients with KRAS wild‐type (KRAS WT), metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We investigated the addition of the oral MET inhibitor tivantinib to cetuximab + irinotecan (CETIRI) based on preclinical evidence that activation of the MET pathway may confer resistance to anti‐EGFR therapy. Previously treated patients with KRAS WT advanced or mCRC were enrolled. The phase 1, open‐label 3 + 3, dose‐escalation study evaluated the safety and maximally tolerated dose of tivantinib plus CETIRI. The phase 2, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study of biweekly CETIRI plus tivantinib or placebo was restricted to patients who had received only one prior line of chemotherapy. The phase 2 primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). The recommended phase 2 dose was tivantinib (360 mg/m2 twice daily) with biweekly cetuximab (500 mg/m2) and irinotecan (180 mg/m2). Among 117 patients evaluable for phase 2 analysis, no statistically significant PFS difference was observed: 8.3 months on tivantinib vs. 7.3 months on placebo (HR, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.55–1.33; P = 0.38). Subgroup analyses trended in favor of tivantinib in patients with MET‐High tumors by immunohistochemistry, PTEN‐Low tumors, or those pretreated with oxaliplatin, but subgroups were too small to draw conclusions. Neutropenia, diarrhea, nausea and rash were the most frequent severe adverse events in tivantinib‐treated patients. The combination of tivantinib and CETIRI was well tolerated but did not significantly improve PFS in previously treated KRAS WT mCRC. Tivantinib may be more active in specific subgroups.
The Risk Premium, Interest Rate Determination, and Monetary Independence Under a Fixed, but Adjustable, Exchange Rate
Authors: Pasula Kit
Published: February 2016

This paper examines interest rate determination and monetary independence in a small economy with a fixed exchange rate. The risk premium is determined endogenously in the stochastic, general‐equilibrium model. The sign of the risk premium and the magnitude of the interest rate depend on the specification of the policy rule for the future exchange rate. Increases in domestic credit can decrease, increase or have no effect on the interest rate. The offset coefficient can differ from −1 (the ‘trilemma’ may not hold), but numerical calculations indicate that the offset is close to −1. Under certain conditions, empirical analyses overestimate monetary independence. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
n‐butylparaben induces male reproductive disorders via regulation of estradiol and estrogen receptors
Authors: Zhang Linyuan , Ding Sijin , Qiao Peihuan , Dong Li , Yu Miao , Wang Chong , Zhang Ming , Zhang Lixia , Li Yimin , Tang Ning , Chang Bing
Published: February 2016

It is well known that inappropriate exposure to exogenous hormones during fetal or neonatal life, such as testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2), leads to adverse reproductive outcomes. In our previous study, the reproductive dysfunction of male rats was characterized by an E2 increase and T decrease after in utero and lactation exposures to n‐butylparaben (n‐BP). In this study, we investigated the synthesis and metabolism pathways of steroid hormones, hormone receptors and the epigenetic modification of male offspring on postnatal day (PND) 21 and PND90 to explore the possible mechanisms of endocrine and reproductive disorders. The expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome cholesterol side‐chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc), estrogen sulfotransferase (SULT1E1) and androgen receptor (AR) in the testes was significantly decreased at the transcript and protein levels; in addition, aromatase (CYP19) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) expression was significantly increased and the methylation rate of the ERα promoter was significantly decreased. These results suggest that increased CYP19 expression and decreased SULT1E1 expression are responsible for the E2 increase. This effect promotes the expression of ERα, which plays a pivotal role in regulating reproductive and endocrine disorders of male rats exposed to n‐BP. Furthermore, the epigenetic hypomethylation of ERα is involved in this regulation processes. Our study is the first to report on the possible mechanism of male rat reproductive disorders induced by the xenoestrogenic chemical n‐BP. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copper toxicology, oxidative stress and inflammation using zebrafish as experimental model
Authors: Pereira Talita Carneiro Brandão , Campos Maria Martha , Bogo Maurício Reis
Published: February 2016

Copper is an essential micronutrient and a key catalytic cofactor in a wide range of enzymes. As a trace element, copper levels are tightly regulated and both its deficit and excess are deleterious to the organism. Under inflammatory conditions, serum copper levels are increased and trigger oxidative stress responses that activate inflammatory responses. Interestingly, copper dyshomeostasis, oxidative stress and inflammation are commonly present in several chronic diseases. Copper exposure can be easily modeled in zebrafish; a consolidated model in toxicology with increasing interest in immunity‐related research. As a result of developmental, economical and genetic advantages, this freshwater teleost is uniquely suitable for chemical and genetic large‐scale screenings, representing a powerful experimental tool for a whole‐organism approach, mechanistic studies, disease modeling and beyond. Copper toxicological and more recently pro‐inflammatory effects have been investigated in both larval and adult zebrafish with breakthrough findings. Here, we provide an overview of copper metabolism in health and disease and its effects on oxidative stress and inflammation responses in zebrafish models. Copper‐induced inflammation is highlighted owing to its potential to easily mimic pro‐oxidative and pro‐inflammatory features that combined with zebrafish genetic tractability could help further in the understanding of copper metabolism, inflammatory responses and related diseases. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heterozygous PTCH1 Mutations Impact the Bone Metabolism in Patients With Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome Likely by Regulating SPARC Expression
Authors: Hong Yingying , Zhang Jianyun , Zhang Heyu , Li Xuefen , Qu Jiafei , Zhai Jiemei , Zhang Lei , Chen Feng , Li Tiejun
Published: February 2016

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by bone and skin abnormalities and a predisposition to various tumors. Keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KCOTs), which are common tumors of the jaw that cause extensive damage to the jawbone, are usually accompanied with NBCCS. Germline PTCH1 mutations in NBCCS tumorigenesis have been frequently studied; however, little is known regarding the pathogenesis of bone abnormalities in this disease. This study sought to investigate the mechanism underlying heterozygous PTCH1 mutation-mediated abnormal bone metabolism in patients with NBCCS. Stromal cells were isolated from the fibrous capsules of patients with NBCCS-associated or non-syndromic keratocystic odontogenic tumors and non-syndromic tumor stromal cells without PTCH1 mutations served as controls. Germline PTCH1 heterozygous mutations were confirmed in all NBCCS samples and differential protein expression was identified using tandem mass tag-labeled proteomics analysis. Our findings revealed that osteonectin/SPARC expression was significantly downregulated in syndromic stromal cells compared with non-syndromic stromal cells. SPARC expression was even lower in stromal cells carrying PTCH1 protein truncation mutations. PTCH1 siRNA transfection demonstrated that SPARC downregulation correlates with decreased PTCH1 expression. Furthermore, exogenous SPARC promoted osteogenic differentiation of syndromic stromal cells with enhanced development of calcium nodules. In addition, bone mineral density tests showed that patients with NBCCS exhibit weak bone mass compared with sex- and age-matched controls. This study indicates that germline PTCH1 heterozygous mutations play a major role in bone metabolism in patients with NBCCS, in particular in those with PTCH1 protein truncation mutations. SPARC may represent an important downstream modulator of PTCH1 mediation of bone metabolism. Thus, bone mineral density monitoring is critical for patients with NBCCS for prevention of osteoporosis. In addition, surgical procedures on syndromic-associated KCOTs should be performed with consideration of the weaker bone mass in such patients. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Nutrient removal and biogas upgrading by microalgal strains cultured in anaerobic digested starch wastewater
Authors: Cheng Bin , Ge Zhigang , Zhang Hui , Zhao Yongjun , Sun Shiqing , Hu Changwei
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

In this study, the microalga Chlorella vulgaris (FACHB‐38) was cultivated in pure (3122.5 mg L−1 chemical oxygen demand (COD)) and diluted anaerobic digested starch wastewater (ADSW; 313.2, 622.8, 935.7, 1248.5, and 1558.9 mg L−1 COD). This study mainly aimed to compare algal growth and tolerance with various dilutions of ADSW, as well as determine nutrient removal efficiency and role of biogas upgrade.

RESULTS

Chlorella vulgaris cultured in ADSW with 935.7 mg L−1 COD yielded a maximum total biomass of 3.39 ± 0.27 g L−1 (dry weight) and pollutant removal efficiencies of 79.04% ± 5.71% COD and 73.19% ± 6.98% total nitrogen (TN). The contents of C, N, and P in biomass remained constant at 48.93–50.12%, 8.76–9.94%, and 0.74–0.98%, respectively, among all dilutions. High total phosphorus (TP) removal efficiency was observed in treatments with 1248.5–1558.9 mg L−1 COD. The most appropriate dilutions for biogas upgrade were 935.7 and 1248.5 mg L−1 COD.

CONCLUSION

The optimal effect of nutrient removal and biogas upgrading can be obtained by appropriate control of ADSW dilution in influents. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Biosynthesis and purification of histidine‐tagged human soluble catechol‐O‐methyltransferase
Authors: Pedro Augusto Q , Correia Filipa F , Santos Fátima M , Espírito‐Santo Guilherme , Gonçalves Ana M , Bonifácio Maria J , Queiroz João A , Passarinha Luís A
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT, EC 2.1.1.6) has been implicated in several human diseases including Parkinson's disease and the most appropriated therapy depends on the efficacy of the COMT inhibitors applied. Therefore, more effective drugs for COMT inhibition are important, and the development of such inhibitors requires research with recombinant COMT.

RESULTS

The time‐course production of biologically active hexa‐histidine‐tagged COMT in methanol‐induced Pichia pastoris cultures was evaluated and immobilized‐metal affinity chromatography was applied as the main capture step for the purification of the target enzyme that proved to be extremely efficient and selective. The best strategy allowed recovering soluble COMT at 300 mmol L−1 imidazol in a highly purified fraction with a purification fold of 81 and a bioactivity recovery of 57.35%. Using this strategy, a concentration of 3.68 mg L−1 of shake‐flask culture of highly purified recombinant COMT was obtained. Finally, the MALDI‐TOF/TOF analysis of the purified recombinant SCOMT demonstrated that it is correctly processed since no modifications in the primary sequence were observed.

CONCLUSION

A new strategy was developed and implemented for the biosynthesis and purification of biologically active soluble COMT in a highly purified fraction with the ability to be inhibited by commercial Parkinson's disease inhibitors: 3,5‐dinitrocatechol and entacapone. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Development and optimization of a sensitive TaqMan® real‐time PCR with synthetic homologous extrinsic control for quantitation of Human cytomegalovirus viral load
Authors: Slavov Svetoslav Nanev , Otaguiri Katia Kaori , de Figueiredo Glauciane Garcia , Yamamoto Aparecida Yulie , Mussi‐Pinhata Marisa Marcia , Kashima Simone , Covas Dimas Tadeu
Published: February 2016

Human cytomegalovirus (Human herpesvirus 5, HCMV) causes frequent asymptomatic infections in the general population. However, in immunosuppressed patients or congenitally infected infants, HCMV is related to high morbidity and mortality. In such cases, a rapid viral detection is crucial for monitoring the clinical outcome and the antiviral treatment. In this study, we optimized a sensitive biplex TaqMan® real‐time PCR for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of a partial HCMV UL97 sequence and homologous extrinsic control (HEC) in the same tube. HEC was represented by a plasmid containing a modified HCMV sequence retaining the original primer binding sites, while the probe sequence was substituted by a phylogenetically divergent one (chloroplast CF0 subunit plant gene). It was estimated that the optimal HEC concentration, which did not influence the HCMV amplification is 1,000 copies/reaction. The optimized TaqMan® PCR demonstrated high analytical sensitivity (6.97 copies/reaction, CI = 95%) and specificity (100%). Moreover, the reaction showed adequate precision (repeatability, CV = 0.03; reproducibility, CV = 0.0027) and robustness (no carry‐over or cross‐contamination). The diagnostic sensitivity (100%) and specificity (97.8%) were adequate for the clinical application of the molecular platform. The optimized TaqMan® real‐time PCR is suitable for HCMV detection and quantitation in predisposed patients and monitoring of the applied antiviral therapy. J. Med. Virol. 88:1604–1612, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the design of GaN Chireix power amplifiers using an embedding device model
Authors: Roblin Patrick , Chang Hsiu‐Chen , Martinez‐Rodriguez Francisco J. , Xie Chenggang , Martinez‐Lopez Jose I.
Published: February 2016

As wireless cellular communication keeps expanding toward higher bandwidth, multiband signals, and high frequencies of operation, the design of power efficient radio frequency power amplifiers (PAs) for cellular phone basestations is submitted to more stringent requirements. This paper discusses the promising technique of nonlinear embedding, which may help stream line the design of such PAs. To this order, the design of a GaN radio frequency PA from device modeling to circuit design is presented. The large signal modeling of GaN high‐electron‐mobility transistors including thermal and trapping memory effects is discussed first. The nonlinear embedding device model is then introduced using the concept of an anti‐circuit transfer network. This embedding device model is then applied to the design of a Chireix amplifier. New Chireix design equations are developed to work with the memoryless inner core of the embedding device model, and their validity is confirmed in circuit simulations. The Chireix amplifier is then designed using the multi‐harmonic impedance terminations predicted by the embedding device model for the package reference planes. Finally, the resulting Chireix amplifier is implemented in a circuit simulator with the original GaN high‐electron‐mobility transistors device model and verified in simulations to have a performance approaching that of the originally targeted Chireix at the current reference planes. These theoretical and simulation results demonstrate the potential of the nonlinear embedding PA design technique in the design of Chireix power amplifiers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐Linked Nano‐Objects Containing Aldehyde Groups: Synthesis via RAFT Dispersion Polymerization and Application
Authors: Qiu Liang , Xu Chao‐Ran , Zhong Feng , Hong Chun‐Yan , Pan Cai‐Yuan
Published: February 2016

Pure cross‐linked spherical micelles, nanowires, and vesicles are successfully fabricated from poly(2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate‐b‐p‐(methacryloxyethoxy)benzaldehyde)s (PHPMA–b–PMAEBAs) through reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer dispersion polymerization of MAEBA in methanol using PHPMA as a macro‐CTA and subsequent cross‐linking. The cross‐linking reaction is conducted by stirring a mixture of 1,4‐butanediamine and the resultant nano‐objects in methanol at room temperature. For all polymerizations with feed molar ratios of MAEBA/PHPMA ranging from 75/1 to 240/1, the monomer MAEBA conversions are almost complete, and block copolymers with controlled molecular weight are obtained. The transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and gel permeation chromatography results reveal that the following three factors significantly influence the morphology of the nano‐objects: the feed molar ratio of MAEBA/PHPMA, the copolymer concentration, and the degree of polymerization of PHPMA. The cross‐linked nano‐objects are very stable in good solvents, the spheres and nanowires slightly decrease in size after cross‐linking, whereas the vesicles slightly increase in size. The cross‐linked nano‐objects are stable in neutral solutions, but they dissociate in weekly acidic solutions. The loading of 1‐pyrenemethylamine (PMA) into the vesicles and the unloading of PMA from the vesicles are studied.

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On the definition and the representability of quasi‐polyadic equality algebras
Authors: Ferenczi Miklós
Published: February 2016

We show that the usual axiom system of quasi polyadic equality algebras is strongly redundant. Then, so called non‐commutative quasi‐polyadic equality algebras are introduced (), in which, among others, the commutativity of cylindrifications is dropped. As is known, quasi‐polyadic equality algebras are not representable in the classical sense, but we prove that algebras in are representable by quasi‐polyadic relativized set algebras, or more exactly by algebras in .
Mathematical model for the dynamics of visceral leishmaniasis–malaria co‐infection
Authors: ELmojtaba Ibrahim M.
Published: February 2016

A mathematical model to understand the dynamics of malaria–visceral leishmaniasis co‐infection is proposed and analyzed. Results show that both diseases can be eliminated if R0, the basic reproduction number of the co‐infection, is less than unity, and the system undergoes a backward bifurcation where an endemic equilibrium co‐exists with the disease‐free equilibrium when one of Rm or Rl, the basic reproduction numbers of malaria‐only and visceral leishmaniasis‐only, is precisely less than unity. Results also show that in the case of maximum protection against visceral leishmaniasis (VL), the disease‐free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable if malaria patients are protected from VL infection; similarly, in the case of maximum protection against malaria, the disease‐free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable if VL and post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis patients and the recovered humans after VL are protected from malaria infection. Numerical results show that if Rm and Rl are greater than unity, then we have co‐existence of both disease at an endemic equilibrium, and malaria incidence is higher than visceral leishmaniasis incidence at steady state. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of free‐breathing on left ventricular rotational mechanics in healthy subjects and patients with duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Reyhan Meral L. , Wang Zhe , Kim Hyun J. , Halnon Nancy J. , Finn J. Paul , Ennis Daniel B.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging exams can be performed during free‐breathing. This may be especially important for boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) given their frequently limited breath‐hold abilities. The impact of the respiratory compensation method on quantitative measurements of left ventricular (LV) rotational mechanics is incompletely understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in LV rotational mechanics acquired during breath‐holding (BH), free‐breathing with averaging (AVG), and free‐breathing with respiratory bellows gating (BEL).

Methods

LV short‐axis tagged images from healthy subjects (N = 16) and DMD patients (N = 5) were acquired with BH, AVG, and BEL. LV twist and circumferential‐longitudinal shear (CL‐shear) angle were measured using the Fourier Analysis of STimulated echoes (FAST) method.

Results

Peak LV twist estimates using BEL were significantly lower compared with BH in both healthy subjects (10.2 ± 3.6 ° versus 12.9 ± 2.3 °, P = 0.003) and patients with DMD (8.6 ± 3.6 ° versus 10.5 ± 3.6 °, P = 0.004). AVG results were in between BEL and BH. No significant differences in CL‐shear were detected between BEL and BH.

Conclusion

Breath‐holding directly affects estimates of peak LV twist, but not CL‐shear. Using a free‐breathing strategy for the evaluation of cardiac function is important for intrasubject longitudinal studies, intersubject comparisons, and multicenter trials for patients with DMD. Magn Reson Med 77:864–869, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Quantitative susceptibility mapping at 3 T: comparison of acquisition methodologies
Authors: Lauzon M. Louis , McCreary Cheryl R. , McLean D. Adam , Salluzzi Marina , Frayne Richard
Published: February 2016

Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) is fast becoming a routine clinical tool in the evaluation and assessment of neurological diseases. Unfortunately, there is currently no established standard scanning protocol, and it is uncertain whether different acquisition strategies alter the derived estimates of magnetic susceptibility. Here, we compare some key deep grey matter susceptibility values in healthy adults acquired from various QSM sequences using either unipolar or bipolar readout gradients, accelerated imaging or not, and gradient‐warp correction or not. Four healthy adult volunteers were scanned three times each within 4 days at 3 T. The eight different QSM combinations were acquired in different randomised order for each session, and then co‐registered to an anatomical atlas. The average and standard deviations of magnetic susceptibilities in the caudate, putamen, red nucleus, internal and external globus pallidus were used in a linear mixed effects model to determine the influence of the various acquisition parameters. Gradient‐warp correction was the only statistically significant fixed effect (p < 0.01), but its impact was small (~5% change) compared with the overall fixed effects. The random effects coefficients (i.e. the various tissues) were statistically significant. Based on our limited multiple observations in healthy adult volunteers, the susceptibilities in deep grey matter are statistically equivalent when QSM source data are acquired with or without accelerated imaging using either unipolar or bipolar readout gradients. There is, however, a statistically meaningful, but small, difference if gradient‐warp correction is used or not. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A radial sampling strategy for uniform k‐space coverage with retrospective respiratory gating in 3D ultrashort‐echo‐time lung imaging
Authors: Park Jinil , Shin Taehoon , Yoon Soon Ho , Goo Jin Mo , Park Jang‐Yeon
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this work was to develop a 3D radial‐sampling strategy which maintains uniform k‐space sample density after retrospective respiratory gating, and demonstrate its feasibility in free‐breathing ultrashort‐echo‐time lung MRI. A multi‐shot, interleaved 3D radial sampling function was designed by segmenting a single‐shot trajectory of projection views such that each interleaf samples k‐space in an incoherent fashion. An optimal segmentation factor for the interleaved acquisition was derived based on an approximate model of respiratory patterns such that radial interleaves are evenly accepted during the retrospective gating. The optimality of the proposed sampling scheme was tested by numerical simulations and phantom experiments using human respiratory waveforms. Retrospectively, respiratory‐gated, free‐breathing lung MRI with the proposed sampling strategy was performed in healthy subjects. The simulation yielded the most uniform k‐space sample density with the optimal segmentation factor, as evidenced by the smallest standard deviation of the number of neighboring samples as well as minimal side‐lobe energy in the point spread function. The optimality of the proposed scheme was also confirmed by minimal image artifacts in phantom images. Human lung images showed that the proposed sampling scheme significantly reduced streak and ring artifacts compared with the conventional retrospective respiratory gating while suppressing motion‐related blurring compared with full sampling without respiratory gating. In conclusion, the proposed 3D radial‐sampling scheme can effectively suppress the image artifacts due to non‐uniform k‐space sample density in retrospectively respiratory‐gated lung MRI by uniformly distributing gated radial views across the k‐space. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An iterated local search algorithm for water distribution network design optimization
Authors: De Corte Annelies , Sörensen Kenneth
Published: February 2016

The optimal design of water distribution networks is a complex non‐linear combinatorial optimization problem. It consists in finding the least‐cost pipe configuration that satisfies hydraulic laws and customer requirements, using a limited set of available pipe types. In a previous paper (De Corte and Sörensen, Eur J Oper Res 228 (2013), 1–10), we have argued that state‐of‐the‐art optimization algorithms proposed in this domain are unduly complicated and poorly tested. The main contribution of this article is a straightforward, fast, transparent, and effective iterated local search (ILS) algorithm that has at least equivalent performance when compared to the best approaches in the literature, but has a much simpler algorithmic structure. A full‐factorial experiment is conducted to obtain the heuristic's best parameter settings. Contrary to existing algorithms, the ILS algorithm is additionally shown to perform well on a broad set of much more challenging HydroGen (De Corte and Sörensen, Water Resour Manage 28 (2014), 333–350) test instances. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 67(3), 187–198 2016
IRS Extends Notification Date for Social Welfare Organizations
Authors: Kirkpatrick Alicia M.
Published: February 2016

On January 19, the IRS issued a notice that extended the due date of notifications required to be submitted by reason of IRC § 506 by would‐be social welfare organizations (IRC § 501(c)(4) entities) (Notice 2016‐09). (This section was created by the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015, the nonprofit law aspects of which are summarized in last month's issue.)
Adipose tissue natriuretic peptide receptor expression is related to insulin sensitivity in obesity and diabetes
Authors: Kovacova Zuzana , Tharp William G. , Liu Dianxin , Wei Wan , Xie Hui , Collins Sheila , Pratley Richard E.
Published: February 2016

Objective

Cardiac natriuretic peptides (NPs) bind to two receptors (NPRA‐mediator of signaling; NPRC‐clearance receptor) whose ratio, NPRR (NPRA/NPRC), determines the NP bioactivity. This study investigated the relationship of NP receptor gene expression in adipose tissue and muscle with obesity and glucose intolerance. Prospectively, the study also assessed whether changes in NP receptor expression and thermogenic gene markers accompanied improvements of insulin sensitivity.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of subjects with a wide range of BMI and glucose tolerance (n = 50) was conducted, as well as a randomized 12‐week trial of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with pioglitazone (n = 9) or placebo (n = 10).

Results

NPRR mRNA was significantly lower in adipose tissue of subjects with obesity when compared with lean subjects (P ≤ 0.001). NPRR decreased with progression from normal glucose tolerance to T2DM (P < 0.01) independently of obesity. Treatment of subjects with T2DM with pioglitazone increased NPRR in adipose tissue (P ≤ 0.01) in conjunction with improvements in insulin sensitivity and increases of the thermogenic markers PPARγ coactivator‐1α and uncoupling protein 1 (P ≤ 0.01).

Conclusions

Decreased adipose tissue NPRR was associated with obesity, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. This relationship was not observed for skeletal muscle NPRR. Pharmacological improvement of insulin sensitivity in subjects with T2DM was tied to improvement in NPRR and increased expression of genes involved in thermogenic processes.
Microsensors on the Fly
Authors: Himmelhaus Michael
Published: February 2016

Optically driven microresonators freely floating in liquids, embedded into transparent solid media, or even taken up by life cells, can be exploited as optical microsensors, which yield precise information on the immediate local condition of their respective environment. Besides plain physical information, such as on local refractive indices, mechanical stress, and mixture ratios in composite materials, the sensors may be applied as chemical and even bio‐sensors for the specific targeting of biochemical binding reactions if accordingly functionalized. Sensitivity can be further improved by driving the sensors above the lasing threshold, thereby increasing signal intensity and optical resolution at the same time. In this article, we introduce the optical principles, present useful implementations, and illustrate feasibility of this still novel approach to optical sensing by a number of diverse examples.
Public Financial Management Reforms: The Role of Ipsas in Latin‐America
Authors: Brusca Isabel , Gómez‐villegas Mauricio , Montesinos Vicente
Published: February 2016

During the last 30 years, many public administration reforms promoted by New Public Management have been undertaken. These reforms have spread to Latin‐American countries and include changes in governmental accounting systems, where the implementation of International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSASs) has been a stimulus for modernization. This article aims to clarify the situation of IPSASs implementation in the Latin‐American context as well as the stimuli for and effects of their implementation. The analysis shows that there is an emerging international trend to adopt IPSASs in Latin‐American countries although at the same time, there are evident obstacles to achieving reform goals. In Colombia, reforms are still underway, and the usefulness of IPSASs to improve decision‐making at an organisational level cannot be evaluated. Meanwhile, in Peru, the modernization is more rhetorical than real, and many efforts remain to be made for the effective implementation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Down syndrome: perinatal mortality risks with each additional week of expectant management
Authors: Sparks Teresa N. , Griffin Emily , Page Jessica , Pilliod Rachel , Shaffer Brian L. , Caughey Aaron B.
Published: February 2016

Objective

To evaluate the gestational age (GA) at which perinatal mortality risk is minimized for fetuses with Down syndrome (DS).

Methods

Retrospective cohort of singleton pregnancies delivered between 24 and 41 weeks, using 2005–2006 United States linked birth and death certificate data. Among fetal DS cases, prospective risk of intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) and risk of infant death were calculated for each week, and composite risk of fetal/infant mortality with expectant management was compared to delivery.

Results

Of 3 113 098 pregnancies, 1766 had fetal DS (0.06%). IUFD occurred in 7.4% with DS, and infant death in 6.5%. Prospective risk of IUFD increased from 37 weeks onward to reach 50.7 per 1000 pregnancies (95% CI 33.2–68.3) at 42 weeks. Comparing mortality with expectant management to delivery, expectant management carried increasing risk from 38 (RR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05–1.33) to 41 weeks (RR 1.84; 95% CI 1.66–2.05). Further, number needed to deliver to avoid one excess death decreased from 38 (109.17; 95% CI 64.52–344.83) to 41 weeks (24.08; 95% CI 20.59–29.04).

Conclusions

Although further research is needed to clarify risk factors for fetal and neonatal death in cases of DS, risk of perinatal mortality appears to be minimized with delivery at 38 weeks. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Embryo‐fetal erythroid cell selection from celomic fluid allows earlier prenatal diagnosis of hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Giambona Antonino , Damiani Gianfranca , Leto Filippo , Jakil Cristina , Renda Disma , Cigna Valentina , Schillaci Giovanna , Picciotto Francesco , Nicolaides Kypros H. , Passarello Cristina , Makrydimas George , Maggio Aurelio
Published: February 2016

Objective

Celocentesis, which involves aspiration of celomic fluid at 7–9 weeks' gestation, can potentially provide early prenatal diagnosis of single‐gene disorders. The main barrier to wide acceptability of this technique is contamination of the sample by maternal cells. This problem can be overcome through selection of embryo‐fetal erythroid precursors, which are found in celomatic fluid.

Method

Embryo‐fetal erythroid precursors were selected by an anti‐CD71 MicroBeads method or by direct micromanipulator pickup of the cells selected on the basis of their morphology.

Results

In our series of 302 singleton pregnancies at high risk for hemoglobinopathies, Celocentesis provided a sample of celomic fluid in all cases. In 100 (33.1%) samples, maternal contamination was absent or very low (<5%), and unambiguous results were obtained without the need for any preliminary procedures. In 160 (53%) cases, the contamination was between 5% and 60%, and selection of embryo‐fetal erythroid precursors was successfully achieved by anti‐CD71 MicroBeads. In 42 (13.9%) cases, the contamination was >60%, and selection of embryo‐fetal cells was achieved by micromanipulation. In all 302 cases, there was concordance between DNA obtained from celomic fluid samples and fetal or newborn DNA.

Conclusions

Celocentesis can be a reliable procedure for earlier prenatal diagnosis of fetal monogenic diseases. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A DFT study of reduction of nitrobenzene to aniline with SnCl2 and hydrochloric acid
Authors: Yamabe Shinichi , Yamazaki Shoko
Published: February 2016

A fundamental reduction reaction, nitrobenzene to aniline in SnCl2 and hydrochloric acid, was investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. First, the change of SnCl2 → SnCl42− → Cl4SnH− was discussed, and the reaction path of SnCl42− + H3O+ → Cl4SnH− + H2O was obtained. Starting from nitrobenzene, six elementary processes were found so as to arrive at the protonated aniline. The hydride ion from Cl4SnH− is connected always to the cationic nitrogen, and the proton is always to oxygens. An intermediate PhN+H2OH was obtained, which is isomerized to the para OH adduct protonated imine via the Bamberger rearrangement. This species may undergo the H− acceptance at the sp2 N+H2 center. In the nitrobenzene reduction, the proton enhances the electrophilicity of the nitrogen center, which makes the hydride shift ready. NH bonds are formed, and NO bonds are cleaved both by the proton attach and subsequent H2O elimination and by the formal [1,5] OH shift. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.