bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sentence simplification, compression, and disaggregation for summarization of sophisticated documents
Authors: Finegan‐Dollak Catherine , Radev Dragomir R.
Published: September 2015

Sophisticated documents like legal cases and biomedical articles can contain unusually long sentences. Extractive summarizers can select such sentences—potentially adding hundreds of unnecessary words to the summary—or exclude them and lose important content. Sentence simplification or compression seems on the surface to be a promising solution. However, compression removes words before the selection algorithm can use them, and simplification generates sentences that may be ambiguous in an extractive summary. We therefore compare the performance of an extractive summarizer selecting from the sentences of the original document with that of the summarizer selecting from sentences shortened in three ways: simplification, compression, and disaggregation, which splits one sentence into several according to rules designed to keep all meaning. We find that on legal cases and biomedical articles, these shortening methods generate ungrammatical output. Human evaluators performed an extrinsic evaluation consisting of comprehension questions about the summaries. Evaluators given compressed, simplified, or disaggregated versions of the summaries answered fewer questions correctly than did those given summaries with unaltered sentences. Error analysis suggests 2 causes: Altered sentences sometimes interact with the sentence selection algorithm, and alterations to sentences sometimes obscure information in the summary. We discuss future work to alleviate these problems.
A Colorimetric and Fluorimetric Chemodosimeter for Copper Ion Based on the Conversion of Dihydropyrazine to Pyrazine
Authors: Li Junbo , Chen Shao , Zhang Pian , Wang Zilong , Long Guankui , Ganguly Rakish , Li Yongxin , Zhang Qichun
Published: September 2015

In this research, we successfully synthesized and fully characterized the new compound 5,8,13,16,21,24‐hex‐(triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)‐6,23‐dihydro‐6,7,14,15,22,23‐hexaza‐trianthrylene (HHATA, brown color in a mixed solvent of CH2Cl2/CH3CN 1:1, v/v, weakly blue fluorescent), which can be easily oxidized to 5,8,13,16,21,24‐hex‐(triisopropylsilyl)ethynyl)‐6,7,14,15,22,23‐hexazatrianthrylene (HATA) (yellow color in CH2Cl2/CH3CN 1:1, v/v), red fluorescent) by Cu2+ ions. This reaction only proceeds efficiently in the presence of Cu2+ ions when compared with other common metal ions such as Fe3+, Co2+, Mn2+, Hg2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Ag+, Mg2+, Ca2+, K+, Na+, and Li+. Our result suggests that this reaction can be developed as an effective method for the detection of Cu2+ ions.
Fracto‐mechanoluminescence and thermoluminescence properties of UV and γ‐irradiated Ca2Al2SiO7:Ce3+ phosphor
Authors: Tiwari Geetanjali , Brahme Nameeta , Sharma R. , Bisen D. P. , Sao Sanjay Kumar , Singh Manisha
Published: September 2015

Ce3+‐doped calcium aluminosilicate phosphor was prepared by a combustion‐assisted method at an initiating temperature of 600°C. Structural characterization was carried out using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The absorption spectra of Ca2Al2SiO7:Ce3+ showed an absorption edge at 230 nm. The optical characterization of Ca2Al2SiO7:Ce3+ phosphor was investigated in a fracto‐mechanoluminescence (FML) and thermoluminescence (TL) study. The peak of ML intensity increased as the height of impact of the moving piston increased. The TL intensity of Ca2Al2SiO7:Ce3+ was recorded for different exposure times of UV and γ‐irradiation and it was observed that TL intensity was maximum for a UV irradiation time of 30 min and for a γ‐dose of 1180 Gy. The TL intensity had three peaks for UV irradiation at temperatures 82°C, 125°C and 203°C. Also the TL intensity had a single peak at 152°C for γ‐irradiation. The TL and ML emission spectra of Ca2Al2SiO7:Ce3+ phosphor showed maximum emission at 400 nm. The possible mechanisms involved in the TL and ML processes of the Ca2Al2SiO7:Ce3+ phosphor are also explained. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of an amyloid fibril forming segment of human Pmel17 repeat domain (RPT domain)
Authors: Louros Nikolaos N. , Iconomidou Vassiliki A.
Published: September 2015

Pmel17 is the major component of functional amyloid fibrils that have an important role during pigment deposition. Pmel17 polymerization is promoted within the mildly acidic conditions of melanosomes, organelles located in pigment‐specific cells. A repeat domain (RPT domain) of Pmel17, rich in glutamic acid residues has been extensively associated with the formation of the fibrous matrix. Here, we examine the RPT domain of human Pmel17 in order to provide information on this mechanism. Specifically, we have identified an aggregation‐prone peptide segment (405VSIVVLSGT413), close to the C‐terminal part of the RPT domain. Experimental results utilizing electron microscopy, X‐ray fiber diffraction, Congo red staining and ATR FT‐IR spectroscopy indicate that this peptide segment self‐assembles forming fibrils with evident amyloidogenic properties. Conclusively, our results demonstrate that the 405VSIVVLSGT413 peptide segment possibly has an essential role in RPT domain fibrillogenesis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 106: 133–139, 2016.
Low‐Temperature Preferential Oxidation of Carbon Monoxide on Pt3Ni Alloy Nanoparticle Catalyst with Engineered Surface
Authors: Hwang Sang Youp , Yurchekfrodl Eric , Zhang Changlin , Peng Zhenmeng
Published: September 2015

Octahedral Pt3Ni alloy nanoparticles on carbon and alumina supports are prepared using a simple solid‐state chemistry method and tested for CO preferential oxidation (PROX) in H2. Both catalysts exhibit much superior PROX property comparing to spherical Pt3Ni alloy and pure Pt, with high activity and 100 % selectivity between around RT and 100 °C. The improved activity of the octahedral Pt3Ni has been attributed to bifunctional sites mechanism. The excellent selectivity is correlated with the unique surface geometry and electronic structure of the octahedral Pt3Ni.
In Situ Characterization of Bipolar Electrodes by using Vibrational Stark Spectroscopy and Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Sanghapi Axline , Ramakrishan Sridevi , Fan Sanjun , Shannon Curtis
Published: September 2015

We report on the use of Raman spectroscopy to interrogate the electrical double layer near Au bipolar electrodes. Well‐characterized adsorbed molecules are used as local spectroscopic probes that report on the state of the electrode–electrolyte interface. We discuss two applications of in situ Raman scattering to characterize the electrode–electrolyte interface in bipolar electrochemical systems: vibrational Stark spectroscopy and surface‐enhanced Raman (SER) spectroelectrochemistry. From Stark spectroscopy on CN−/Au, we estimate an upper limit of about 7 MV cm−1 for the electric field at the cathodic pole of an Au bipolar electrode (BPE), consistent with measurements on unipolar electrodes. Through the SER spectroelectrochemistry of an adsorbed redox‐active molecule [2‐(ethylthio)‐9,10‐dihydroxyanthracene], we were able to directly measure the linear variation of the interfacial potential along the principle axis of an Au BPE near the cathodic pole.
Conformational Flexibility in the Transmembrane Protein TSPO
Authors: Jaremko Łukasz , Jaremko Mariusz , Giller Karin , Becker Stefan , Zweckstetter Markus
Published: September 2015

The translocator protein (TSPO) is an integral membrane protein that interacts with a wide variety of endogenous ligands, such as cholesterol and porphyrins, and is also the target for several small molecules with substantial in vivo efficacy. When complexed with the TSPO‐specific radioligand (R)‐PK11195, TSPO folds into a rigid five‐helix bundle. However, little is known about the structure and dynamics of TSPO in the absence of high‐affinity ligands. By means of NMR spectroscopy, we show that TSPO exchanges between multiple conformations in the absence of (R)‐PK11195. Extensive motions on time scales from pico‐ to microseconds occur all along the primary sequence of the protein, leading to a loss of stable tertiary interactions and local unfolding of the helical structure in the vicinity of the ligand‐binding site. The flexible nature of TSPO highlights the importance of conformational plasticity in integral membrane proteins.
The Safety and Efficacy of Absorb Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lu Chang , Filion Kristian B. , Eisenberg Mark J.
Published: September 2015

Bioresorbable stents are novel devices designed to overcome the long‐term limitations of permanent stent implantation. The Absorb bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS; Abbott Vascular, Santa Clara, CA) was the first bioresorbable stent with Conformité Européenne mark approval in coronary vessels and has been the subject of multiple clinical studies. Despite its potential advantages, the safety and efficacy of BVS remain unclear. To address this, we conducted a systematic review to examine the safety and efficacy of BVS. The MEDLINE, Embase, Current Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Cochrane, and Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) databases were searched for studies examining BVS safety and efficacy. Our search was restricted to studies published in English or French. Outcomes of interest include cardiac death, myocardial infarction, target‐lesion revascularization, restenosis, and composite endpoints. Eleven studies met our inclusion criteria (n = 2990), which included 1 randomized controlled trial and 10 cohort studies (2 controlled). These studies varied in size (11–1189) and follow‐up duration (1–60 months). The incidence of major adverse cardiac events ranged from 2.6% to 15.5%, with no statistically significant difference between BVS and control in studies that included a comparison group. Although available data are limited, current evidence is promising and suggests that the use of BVS is not associated with a significant increase in major cardiac events in the short term. Numerous randomized controlled trials are currently in progress that will further improve our understanding of the safety and efficacy of this device.
Identity‐based storage management and integrity verify protocol for secure outsourcing in multi‐cloud
Authors: Song Lingwei , Wei Jinxia , Wang Licheng , Cao Chenlei , Niu Xinxin
Published: September 2015

Verifying the integrity of outsourced data is an important issue in cloud storage. Recently, many integrity verify protocols have been proposed that can support the public verifiability, data dynamics, and privacy against verifiers but involve a third‐party auditor's participation. In this work, we propose a novel identity‐based storage management and integrity verify protocol for secure outsourcing in multi‐cloud. From theoretical analysis and a lot of simulation experiments, we show our proposed protocol is secure and efficient, without using any trusted organizer. Furthermore, the protocol enjoys many important security attributes including prevention of various attacks, user anonymity, local password verification, and so on. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystal growth of progesterone metastable and stable polymorphs by polymer induced herteronucleation (PIHn) method
Authors: Araya‐Sibaja Andrea Mariela , Soldi Valdir , de Campos Carlos Eduardo Maduro , Cardoso Simone Gonçalves , Cuffini Silvia Lucia
Published: September 2015

The selective crystallization of progesterone polymorphs prepared by Polymer‐Induced Heteronucleation (PIHn) method was investigated. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), dextran, gelatin, polyisoprene (PI), and acrylonitrile/butadiene copolymer (NBR) were used as heteronucleants. Crystallizations were conducted from 0.5, 10 and 40 mg mL−1 solutions in chloroform at room temperature by solvent evaporation. The samples were characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Form 2 was obtained from 0.5 mg mL−1 solution in almost all polymers. A mixture of both polymorphs crystallized from the three concentrations on gelatine; from 10 and 40mg mL−1 on PVA and HPMC and, from 10 mg mL−1 solutions on NBR. Form 2 crystallized on HPMC was stable for three months under ambient stress conditions (40ºC and 75% RH). These results are good evidence that the tailoring of new formulations and devices with progesterone the metastable and more soluble form 2 is possible.
Early stress evokes dysregulation of histone modifiers in the medial prefrontal cortex across the life span
Authors: Pusalkar Madhavi , Suri Deepika , Kelkar Ashwin , Bhattacharya Amrita , Galande Sanjeev , Vaidya Vidita A.
Published: September 2015

Early stress has been hypothesized to recruit epigenetic mechanisms to mediate persistent molecular, cellular, and behavioral changes. Here, we have examined the consequence of the early life stress of maternal separation (ES) on the gene expression of several histone modifiers that regulate histone acetylation and methylation within the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a key limbic brain region that regulates stress responses and mood‐related behavior. ES animals exhibit gene regulation of both writer (histone acetyltransferases and histone methyltransferases) and eraser (histone deacetylases and histone lysine demethylases) classes of histone modifiers. While specific histone modifiers (Kat2a, Smyd3, and Suv420h1) and the sirtuin, Sirt4 were downregulated across life within the mPFC of ES animals, namely at postnatal Day 21, 2 months, and 15 months of age, we also observed gene regulation restricted to these specific time points. Despite the decline noted in expression of several histone modifiers within the mPFC following ES, this was not accompanied by any change in global or residue‐specific H3 acetylation and methylation. Our findings indicate that ES results in the regulation of several histone modifiers within the mPFC across life, and suggest that such perturbations may contribute to the altered prefrontal structural and functional plasticity observed following early adversity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 58: 198–210, 2016.
Testing projected wild bee distributions in agricultural habitats: predictive power depends on species traits and habitat type
Authors: Marshall Leon , Carvalheiro Luísa G. , Aguirre‐Gutiérrez Jesús , Bos Merijn , de Groot G. Arjen , Kleijn David , Potts Simon G. , Reemer Menno , Roberts Stuart , Scheper Jeroen , Biesmeijer Jacobus C.
Published: September 2015

Species distribution models (SDM) are increasingly used to understand the factors that regulate variation in biodiversity patterns and to help plan conservation strategies. However, these models are rarely validated with independently collected data and it is unclear whether SDM performance is maintained across distinct habitats and for species with different functional traits. Highly mobile species, such as bees, can be particularly challenging to model. Here, we use independent sets of occurrence data collected systematically in several agricultural habitats to test how the predictive performance of SDMs for wild bee species depends on species traits, habitat type, and sampling technique. We used a species distribution modeling approach parametrized for the Netherlands, with presence records from 1990 to 2010 for 193 Dutch wild bees. For each species, we built a Maxent model based on 13 climate and landscape variables. We tested the predictive performance of the SDMs with independent datasets collected from orchards and arable fields across the Netherlands from 2010 to 2013, using transect surveys or pan traps. Model predictive performance depended on species traits and habitat type. Occurrence of bee species specialized in habitat and diet was better predicted than generalist bees. Predictions of habitat suitability were also more precise for habitats that are temporally more stable (orchards) than for habitats that suffer regular alterations (arable), particularly for small, solitary bees. As a conservation tool, SDMs are best suited to modeling rarer, specialist species than more generalist and will work best in long‐term stable habitats. The variability of complex, short‐term habitats is difficult to capture in such models and historical land use generally has low thematic resolution. To improve SDMs’ usefulness, models require explanatory variables and collection data that include detailed landscape characteristics, for example, variability of crops and flower availability. Additionally, testing SDMs with field surveys should involve multiple collection techniques.
Expression of TLR2/4 in the sperm‐storing oviduct of the Chinese soft‐shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis during hibernation season
Authors: Li Quanfu , Hu Lisi , Yang Ping , Zhang Qian , Waqas Yasir , Liu Tengfei , Zhang Linli , Wang Shuai , Chen Wei , Le Yuan , Ullah Shakeeb , Chen Qiusheng
Published: September 2015

The initiation of innate immunology system could play an important role in the aspect of protection for sperms long‐term storage when the sperms got into oviduct of turtles and come into contact with epithelium. The exploration of TLR2/4 distribution and expression in oviduct during hibernation could help make the storage mechanism understandable. The objective of this study was to examine the gene and protein expression profiles in Chinese soft‐shelled turtle during hibernation from November to April in the next year. The protein distribution of TLR2/4 was investigated in the magnum, isthmus, uterus, and vagina of the turtle oviduct using immunohistochemistry, and the gene expression of TLR2/4 was analyzed using quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). The results showed positive TLR2 protein expression primarily in the epithelium of the oviduct. TLR4 immunoreactivity was widely observed in almost every part of the oviduct, particularly in the epithelium and secretory gland membrane. Analysis of protein, mRNA expression revealed the decreased expression of TLR2/4 in the magnum compared with the isthmus, uterus, and vagina during hibernation. The protein and mRNA expression of TLR2 in the magnum, isthmus, uterus, and vagina was decreased in April compared with that in November. TLR4 protein and mRNA expression in the magnum, isthmus, uterus and vagina was decreased in November compared with that in April. These results indicated that TLR2/4 expression might protect the sperm from microbial infections. In contrast to the function of TLR2, which protects sperm during the early stages of hibernation, TLR4 might play a role in later stages of storage. The present study is the first to report the functions of TLR2/4 in reptiles.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Carbon Nanofibers/Co(OH)2 Nanocomposites: Application for Non‐Enzymatic Glucose Sensing
Authors: Wang Qian , Ma Yao , Jiang Xin , Yang Nianjun , Coffinier Yannick , Belkhalfa Hakim , Dokhane Nahed , Li Musen , Boukherroub Rabah , Szunerits Sabine
Published: September 2015

The synthesis of carbon nanofibers (CNFS)/Co(OH)2 nanocomposites for non‐enzymatic electrochemical sensing of glucose is presented. The sensing matrix was fabricated by electrophoretic deposition of a mixture of Co(NO3)2 and CNFS in ethanol at 50 V for 2 min onto gold electrodes. The formed CNFS/Co(OH)2 matrix was characterised by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Its electrocatalytic properties towards the oxidation of glucose in 0.1 M NaOH were tested. A detection limit of 5 µM with linearity of 10 µM to 0.12 mM was obtained. The current response was selective towards glucose and stable over time. The good analytical performance of the nanocomposite allowed for sensing glucose in real human serum samples.
Determination of γ‐hydroxybutyric acid in saliva by capillary electrophoresis coupled with contactless conductivity and indirect UV absorbance detectors
Authors: Mazina Jekaterina , Saar‐Reismaa Piret , Kulp Maria , Kaljurand Mihkel , Vaher Merike
Published: September 2015

The aim of the current study was to optimise and validate the methodology for determination of γ‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in saliva by CE combined with a contactless conductivity detector (C4D) and indirect UV absorbance detection (λABS = 210 nm). The optimized BGE, consisting of 8.5 mM maleic acid, 17 mM arginine, 255 μM cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and 15% acetonitrile, was evaluated for the separation of GHB in saliva within 6 min. The performance characteristics of the CE‐C4D‐indirect UV methodology was validated. The instrument detection and quantification limits were 0.49 and 1.6 mg/L for C4D, and 5.1 mg/L and 17.0 mg/L for indirect UV, respectively. The linearity was obtained over the range from 2.5 to 400 mg/L for C4D and from 12.5 to 400 mg/L for indirect UV. The interday precisions were within 2.3–5.7% and intraday precisions were within 1.6–9.0% for C4D as well as 2.1–9.3%, 5.6–10.1% for indirect UV in spiked saliva, respectively. The recoveries were within 87.2–104.4%. The matrix effects were +53.2% for small concentrations up to 25 mg/L for C4D and +23.6% for concentrations up to 75 for mg/L for indirect UV detection. No matrix effects were observed for higher concentration levels. In conclusion, CE‐C4D‐indirect UV can offer a rapid, accurate, sensitive, and definitive method for the determination of GHB abuse in saliva samples as a forensic screening tool.
Real‐time electro‐diffusion method to discriminate carbon nanomaterials
Authors: Bhattacharyya Tamoghna , Chatterjee Arumoy , Chatterjee Budhaditya , Raja Sufi O. , Kr. Dasgupta Anjan
Published: September 2015

We report both the experimental and theoretical insights of differential electro‐diffusion behavior of carbon nanomaterials (e.g. single wall, multiwall carbon nanotubes, and graphene). We thus discriminate one from the other in a soft gel system. The differential mobility of such material depends on their intrinsic properties, both extend and rate of migration bearing the discriminatory signature. The mobility analysis is made by a real time monitoring of the respective bands.
Ecological impacts of fluridone and copper sulphate in catfish aquaculture ponds
Authors: Jacob Annie P. , Culver David A. , Lanno Roman P. , Voigt Astrid
Published: September 2015

Fluridone and copper sulphate are often used for controlling macrophytes and algae in aquaculture ponds. The present study examined the ecological effects of these chemicals on macrophyte, phytoplankton, and zooplankton biomass; plankton community structure; water quality parameters; and fish survival and yield in catfish culture ponds using a randomized complete block design. The estimated half-life of fluridone in the individual ponds ranged from 1.6 d to 10.8 d. Free copper ion activity in ponds treated with copper sulphate was dynamic, ranging from pCu of 7.7 to 8.9 after each application and decreasing to approximately 12 (1 × 10−12 M) within 1 wk after each application, approaching observed values in control ponds (pCu = 12.3–13.4). No difference in macrophyte biomass was observed among treatments. Fluridone and copper treatments elicited different responses within the phytoplankton community. Copper treatments reduced Cyanophyta biomass but increased biomass of more tolerant taxa among the Chlorophyta and Chrysophyta. Fluridone treatments reduced total phytoplankton biomass including Cyanophyta and increased the sensitivity of Chlorophyta and Chrysophyta to copper. Copper also affected zooplankton community composition as a result of direct toxic effects on sensitive zooplankton taxa (e.g., Cladocera), whereas Copepoda biomass in copper-treated ponds exceeded that in controls. Catfish survival and yield were not significantly different among treatments. The results of the present study suggest that fluridone and copper interact at realistic application rates, increasing the ability to control algae compared with treatments where they are applied alone. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1183–1194. © 2015 SETAC
Prediction of meat spectral patterns based on optical properties and concentrations of the major constituents
Authors: ElMasry Gamal , Nakauchi Shigeki
Published: September 2015

A simulation method for approximating spectral signatures of minced meat samples was developed depending on concentrations and optical properties of the major chemical constituents. Minced beef samples of different compositions scanned on a near‐infrared spectroscopy and on a hyperspectral imaging system were examined. Chemical composition determined heuristically and optical properties collected from authenticated references were simulated to approximate samples' spectral signatures. In short‐wave infrared range, the resulting spectrum equals the sum of the absorption of three individual absorbers, that is, water, protein, and fat. By assuming homogeneous distributions of the main chromophores in the mince samples, the obtained absorption spectra are found to be a linear combination of the absorption spectra of the major chromophores present in the sample. Results revealed that developed models were good enough to derive spectral signatures of minced meat samples with a reasonable level of robustness of a high agreement index value more than 0.90 and ratio of performance to deviation more than 1.4.
The epistemology(s) of volunteered geographic information: a critique
Authors: Sieber Renée E , Haklay Mordechai
Published: September 2015

Numerous exegeses have been written about the epistemologies of volunteered geographic information (VGI). We contend that VGI is itself a socially constructed epistemology crafted in the discipline of geography, which when re‐examined, does not sit comfortably with either GIScience or critical GIS scholarship. Using insights from Albert Borgmann's philosophy of technology we offer a critique that, rather than appreciating the contours of this new form of data, truth appears to derive from traditional analytic views of information found within GIScience. This is assisted by structures that enable VGI to be treated as independent of the process that led to its creation. Allusions to individual emancipation further hamper VGI and problematise participatory practices in mapping/geospatial technologies (e.g. public participation geographic information systems). The paper concludes with implications of this epistemological turn and prescriptions for designing systems and advancing the field to ensure nuanced views of participation within the core conceptualisation of VGI.
Polarimetric assessment of healthy and radiofrequency ablated porcine myocardial tissue
Authors: Ahmad Iftikhar , Gribble Adam , Ikram Masroor , Pop Mihaela , Vitkin Alex
Published: September 2015

Radiofrequency (RF) ablation offers a potential treatment for cardiac arrhythmia, where properly titrated energy delivered at critical sites can destroy arrhythmogenic foci. The resulting ablation lesion typically consists of a core (coagulative necrosis) surrounded by a rim of mixed viable and non‐viable cells. The extent of the RF lesion is difficult to delineate with current imaging techniques. Here, we explore polarization signatures of ten ex‐vivo samples from untreated (n = 5) and RF ablated porcine hearts (n = 5), in backscattered geometry through Mueller matrix polarimetry. Significant differences (p < 0.01) in depolarization, ΔT, were observed between the healthy, RF ablated and rim regions. Linear retardance, δ, was significantly lower in the core and rim regions compared to healthy regions (p < 0.05). The results demonstrate a novel application of polarimetry, namely the characterization of RF ablation extent in myocardium, including the visualization of the important lesion rim region.

White light photo (top) of porcine myocardium tissue with radiofrequency ablation lesion and corresponding depolarization map (bottom). Depolarization is useful for visualizing the lesion core and rim.

magnified image

White light photo (top) of porcine myocardium tissue with radiofrequency ablation lesion and corresponding depolarization map (bottom). Depolarization is useful for visualizing the lesion core and rim.
Simultaneous detection of phosphatidylcholines and glycerolipids using matrix‐enhanced surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry with sputter‐deposited platinum film
Authors: Ozawa Tomoyuki , Osaka Issey , Ihozaki Taisuke , Hamada Satoshi , Kuroda Yusuke , Murakami Tatsuya , Miyazato Akio , Kawasaki Hideya , Arakawa Ryuichi
Published: September 2015

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI) imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) allows for the simultaneous detection and imaging of several molecules in brain tissue. However, the detection of glycerolipids such as diacylglycerol (DAG) and triacylglycerol (TAG) in brain tissues is hindered in MALDI‐IMS because of the ion suppression effect from excessive ion yields of phosphatidylcholine (PC). In this study, we describe an approach that employs a homogeneously deposited metal nanoparticle layer (or film) for the detection of glycerolipids in rat brain tissue sections using IMS. Surface‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation IMS with sputter‐deposited Pt film (Pt‐SALDI‐IMS) for lipid analysis was performed as a solvent‐free and organic matrix‐free method. Pt‐SALDI produced a homogenous layer of nanoparticles over the surface of the rat brain tissue section. Highly selective detection of lipids was possible by MALDI‐IMS and Pt‐SALDI‐IMS; MALDI‐IMS detected the dominant ion peak of PC in the tissue section, and there were no ion peaks representing glycerolipids such as DAG and TAG. In contrast, Pt‐SALDI‐IMS allowed the detection of these glycerolipids, but not PC. Therefore, using a hybrid method combining MALDI and Pt‐SALDI (i.e., matrix‐enhanced [ME]‐Pt‐SALDI‐IMS), we achieved the simultaneous detection of PC, PE and DAG in rat brain tissue sections, and the sensitivity for the detection of these molecules was better than that of MALDI‐IMS or Pt‐SALDI alone. The present simple ME‐Pt‐SALDI approach for the simultaneous detection of PC and DAG using two matrices (sputter‐deposited Pt film and DHB matrix) would be useful in imaging analyses of biological tissue sections. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative Analysis of Acyclovir Esters Stability in Solutions: The Influence of the Substituent Structure, Kinetics, and Steric Effects
Authors: Lesniewska Monika A. , Gola Michał , Dutkiewicz Zbigniew , Muszalska Izabela
Published: September 2015

Reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography has been applied to the determination of acyclovir (ACV) esters such as acetate, isobutyrate, pivalate, ethoxycarbonate, and nicotinate. All analyses were carried out at laboratory temperature using a column LiChrospher RP‐18 (250 × 4 mm, 5 µm) and a proper mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and phosphate buffer (pH 6 or 6.7) or acetonitrile and potassium dihydrogen phosphate, and acetic acid. The methods were validated by the determination of the following parameters: selectivity, precision, accuracy, and linearity. Kinetic studies on the hydrolysis were investigated in solutions at 310 K over the pH range 0.42–1.38. The pH‐profiles indicated specific acid‐catalyzed and spontaneous water‐catalyzed degradation. The stability of the studied ACV esters were determined not only by steric factors. In the case of ethoxycarbonyl ester of ACV, the hydrolysis was a two‐step reaction.
Direct Activation of Bax Protein for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Liu Zhiqing , Ding Ye , Ye Na , Wild Christopher , Chen Haiying , Zhou Jia
Published: September 2015

Bax, a central cell death regulator, is an indispensable gateway to mitochondrial dysfunction and a major proapoptotic member of the B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) family proteins that control apoptosis in normal and cancer cells. Dysfunction of apoptosis renders the cancer cell resistant to treatment as well as promotes tumorigenesis. Bax activation induces mitochondrial membrane permeabilization, thereby leading to the release of apoptotic factor cytochrome c and consequently cancer cell death. A number of drugs in clinical use are known to indirectly activate Bax. Intriguingly, recent efforts demonstrate that Bax can serve as a promising direct target for small‐molecule drug discovery. Several direct Bax activators have been identified to hold promise for cancer therapy with the advantages of specificity and the potential of overcoming chemo‐ and radioresistance. Further investigation of this new class of drug candidates will be needed to advance them into the clinic as a novel means to treat cancer.
Approximation by Durrmeyer type Jakimoski–Leviatan operators
Authors: Karaisa Ali
Published: September 2015

In this study, we introduce the Durrmeyer type Jakimoski–Leviatan operators and examine their approximation properties. We study the local approximation properties of these operators. Further, we investigate the convergence of these operators in a weighted space of functions and obtain the approximation properties. Furthermore, we give a Voronovskaja type theorem for the our new operators. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Muscle activation of the quadriceps and hamstrings during incremental running
Authors: Camic Clayton L. , Kovacs Attila J. , Enquist Evan A. , McLain Trisha A. , Hill Ethan C.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to determine the patterns of responses for the electromyographic (EMG) amplitude vs. oxygen uptake (
O2) relationships from muscles of the quadriceps femoris and hamstrings during incremental treadmill running. Methods: Twelve men volunteered to perform an incremental test to exhaustion while EMG signals were recorded from the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, biceps femoris, and semitendinosus muscles. Polynomial regression analyses were used to determine the best model fit for the EMG amplitude vs.
O2 relationships. Results: There were significant (P < 0.05) increases in EMG amplitude across
O2 for the vastus lateralis (quadratic, R = 0.995), vastus medialis (quadratic, R = 0.997), biceps femoris (cubic, R = 0.999), and semitendinosus (linear, R = 0.992) muscles as well as the hamstrings‐to‐quadriceps ratio (cubic, R = 0.999). Conclusion: These findings indicate that the patterns of responses for muscle activation vs. exercise intensity appear to be unique among muscles of the thigh. Muscle Nerve 52: 1023–1029, 2015
ProgressiveType‐II censoring and coherent systems
Authors: Cramer Erhard , Navarro Jorge
Published: September 2015

A new connection between the distribution of component failure times of a coherent system and (adaptive) progressively Type‐II censored order statistics is established. Utilizing this property, we develop inferential procedures when the data is given by all component failures until system failure in two scenarios: In the case of complete information, we assume that the failed component is also observed whereas in the case of incomplete information, we have only information about the failure times but not about the components which have failed. In the first setting, we show that inferential methods for adaptive progressively Type‐II censored data can directly be applied to the problem. For incomplete information, we face the problem that the corresponding censoring plan is not observed and that the available inferential procedures depend on the knowledge of the used censoring plan. To get estimates for distributional parameters, we propose maximum likelihood estimators which can be obtained by solving the likelihood equations directly or via an Expectation‐Maximization‐algorithm type procedure. For an exponential distribution, we discuss also a linear estimator to estimate the mean. Moreover, we establish exact distributions for some estimators in the exponential case which can be used, for example, to construct exact confidence intervals. The results are illustrated by a five component bridge system. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 512–530, 2015
Online energy management for a solar car using pseudospectral methods for optimal control
Authors: Guerrero Merino Enrique , Duarte‐Mermoud Manuel A.
Published: September 2015

This paper deals with the problem of energy planning for a solar car race. Therein, an electric vehicle powered only by means of a battery pack and the sun's energy must cross usually long distances in several days, facing disturbances along the road such as road slopes, winds, cloudy weather, and vehicle failures. Because the battery pack energy is insufficient to end the race, teams must be very careful with their energy consumption planning, so as to drive as fast as possible to reach the goal in minimum time without emptying the battery pack. The proposed methodology consists of a real‐time implementation that measures the current state of the vehicle and then executes a quick energy planning for the long term based on the available battery energy and current solar radiation forecast, afterwards executing a continuous optimal control problem stage for the short term solved by means of pseudospectral methods. This last inclusion allows for fast calculation of trajectory updates while keeping modeling detail. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioactive polymeric scaffolds for osteochondral tissue engineering:in vitroevaluation of the effect of culture media on bone marrow stromal cells
Authors: Lee Paul , Tran Katelyn , Chang Wei , Fang Ya‐Lin , Zhou Gan , Junka Radoslaw , Shelke Namdev B. , Yu Xiaojun , Kumbar Sangamesh G.
Published: September 2015

The goal of this study was to determine the efficacy of the bioactive scaffold system to initiate bone marrow stromal cell (BMSC) differentiation into osteogenic and chondrogenic lineages in various culture media compositions. In the biphasic polymeric scaffolds, the chondrogenic layer contained aligned polycaprolactone nanofibers embedded with chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid, while osteogenic layer carried nano‐hydroxyapatite. Many studies forin vitrotesting of osteochondral scaffolds incorporate the use of complicated bioreactors or growth factors for the formation of cartilage and bone tissue, thus true efficacy of the scaffold system cannot be determined. The present study compared the effect of several media compositions consisting of osteogenic, chondrogenic components, and control basal media. Scaffolds seeded with BMSCs following 28 daysin vitroculture in different induction and basal media were evaluated for osteogenic and chondrogenic markers such as aggrecan, collagen type II, bone sialoprotein, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx‐2). Cartilage scaffold layer of the biphasic scaffold resulted in the expression of chondrogenic markers such as aggrecan and collagen type II by BMSCs in control and induction media compositions. The bone scaffold layer supported the expression of osteogenic markers such as ALP and Runx‐2 by BMSCs in control and induction media compositions. The cartilage scaffold layer under the osteogenic induction media encouraged the growth of hypertrophic cartilage as marked by the positive expression of Runx‐2. Expression of collagen type II and aggrecan on the cartilage layer in basal media was confirmed by immunostaining. These studies suggest that the bioactive scaffolds were able to support the osteogenic and chondrogenic phenotype development in the absence of growth factors and induction media. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Standards for the Psychosocial Care of Children With Cancer and Their Families: An Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Wiener Lori , Kazak Anne E. , Noll Robert B. , Patenaude Andrea Farkas , Kupst Mary Jo
Published: September 2015

Pediatric oncology psychosocial professionals collaborated with an interdisciplinary group of experts and stakeholders and developed evidence‐based standards for pediatric psychosocial care. Given the breadth of research evidence and traditions of clinical care, 15 standards were derived. Each standard is based on a systematic review of relevant literature and used the AGREE II process to evaluate the quality of the evidence. This article describes the methods used to develop the standards and introduces the 15 articles included in this special issue. Established standards help ensure that all children with cancer and their families receive essential psychosocial care. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative evaluation of different methods of inclusion of silver into sulfadiazine‐based polyurethane urea composites
Authors: Oprea Stefan , Oprea Veronica
Published: September 2015

This paper approaches two series of composites: one series incorporating silver nanopowder in sulfadiazine‐based polyurethane urea through a solution‐dispersion method, and another series of composites incorporating silver sulfadiazine in the hard domain of the main chains of the polyurethane. The morphology, structure, and physical properties of these silver composites with different hard segment structures were characterized and compared. It was found that using silver sulfadiazine as a chain extender causes an orderly dispersion of the silver ions along the backbone chain. This leads to an improvement in all properties for these composites, as opposed to composites which incorporated silver nanopowder. Thus, this paper expands on the development of a new and simple method of including silver during the synthesis reaction of the polymer matrix, by chain extension with silver sulfadiazine. Using silver sulfadiazine as a chain extender ensures the repartition of the silver on the molecular backbone chain which allows the silver ions to retain specific properties, unlike other composites which tend to lose silver over time through surface migration. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2156–2165, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Thermal behavior and mechanical properties of nanocomposites of polycarbonate reinforced with multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Wang Lijun , Qiu Jianhui , Sakai Eiichi
Published: September 2015

Nanocomposites of polycarbonate (PC) reinforced with different contents (0–10 wt%) of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), PC/MWCNT, were prepared in a two‐step dispersion process: extrusion followed by injection molding. The effects of the MWCNT content and injection conditions on thermal, mechanical, and dynamic mechanical properties of the prepared nanocomposites were investigated and compared. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that a small MWCNT content (i.e., 1 wt%) was more propitious for improving thermal stability of the nanocomposites. Analysis of the mechanical properties demonstrated that the tensile properties of the nanocomposites with low MWCNT content could be comparable to that of PC; but as the content was increased to 10 wt%, the tensile strength and bending strength decreased by 35% and 47%, respectively, from the values for PC. The impact strength and microhardness was improved; however, with the increase in MWCNT content. Results of dynamic mechanical analysis showed that the storage modulus of PC was increased by the incorporation of MWCNTs, particularly at high temperatures. Scanning electron microscopy was also carried out to investigate the microstructures of the nanocomposites. It is concluded that the incorporation of MWCNTs by injection molding was more effective in enhancing the thermal, mechanical, and dynamic mechanical properties of PC. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E303–E313, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
The potential drug–drug interaction between proton pump inhibitors and warfarin
Authors: Henriksen Daniel Pilsgaard , Stage Tore Bjerregaard , Hansen Morten Rix , Rasmussen Lotte , Damkier Per , Pottegård Anton
Published: September 2015

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been suggested to increase the effect of warfarin, and clinical guidelines recommend careful monitoring of international normalized ratio (INR) when initiating PPI among warfarin users. However, this drug–drug interaction is sparsely investigated in a clinical setting. The aim was to assess whether initiation of PPI treatment among users of warfarin leads to increased INR values.

Methods

The study was an observational self‐controlled study from 1998 to 2012 leveraging data on INR measurements on patients treated with warfarin from primary care and outpatient clinics and their use of prescription drugs. Data were analyzed in 2015.

We assessed INR, warfarin dose, and dose/INR ratio before and after initiating PPI treatment using the paired student's t‐test.

Results

We identified 305 warfarin users initiating treatment with PPIs. The median age was 71 years (interquartile range 63–78 years), and 64% were men. The mean INR in the 70 days prior to PPI initiation was 2.6 (95%CI 2.5–2.8) and 2.6 (95%CI 2.5–2.7) in the period 1–3 weeks after PPI initiation (p = 0.67). Further, neither mean warfarin dose nor the dose/INR ratios were significantly different before and after PPI initiation. Sensitivity analyses revealed no differences among individual PPIs.

Conclusions

We found no evidence of a clinically meaningful drug–drug interaction between PPIs and warfarin in a Northern European patient population of unselected patients from an everyday outpatient and primary care clinical setting. Thus, we do not support the recommendation to “cautiously monitor” users of warfarin initiating PPI treatment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amphiphilic β‐cyclodextrin‐based star‐like block copolymer unimolecular micelles for facile in situ preparation of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Yao Na , Lin Wenjing , Zhang Xiaofang , Gu Huawei , Zhang Lijuan
Published: September 2015

Multifunctional polymer unimolecular micelles, which are used as templates to fabricate stable gold nanoparticles (GNPs) in one‐step without external reductant, have been designed and prepared. Amphiphilic 21‐arm star‐like block copolymers β‐cyclodextrin‐{poly(lactide)‐poly(2‐(dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate)‐poly[oligo(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline)methacrylate]}21 [β‐CD‐(PLA‐PDMAEMA‐PEtOxMA)21] and the precursors are synthesized by the combination of ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) and activators regenerated by electron transfer atom transfer radical polymerization (ARGET ATRP). The tertiary amine groups of PDMAEMA block reduce the
counterion to zerovalent gold in situ, and these gold atoms combine mutually to form final GNPs. GNPs with relatively small size and narrow size distribution can be obtained in longer DMAEMA block copolymer, larger molar ratio of DMAEMA to HAuCl4 and smaller absolute concentrations of both polymer and HAuCl4. These results showed that the unimolecular micelles can be used as templates for preparing and stabilizing GNPs in situ without any external reducing agents and organic solvents, suggesting that the nanocomposite systems are latent nanocarriers for further biomedical application. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 186–196