bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three‐Phase Catalytic System of H2O, Ionic Liquid, and VOPO4–SiO2 Solid Acid for Conversion of Fructose to 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Tian Chengcheng , Zhu Xiang , Chai Song‐Hai , Wu Zili , Binder Andrew , Brown Suree , Li Lin , Luo Huimin , Guo Yanglong , Dai Sheng
Published: April 2014

Efficient transformation of biomass‐derived feedstocks to chemicals and fuels remains a daunting challenge in utilizing biomass as alternatives to fossil resources. A three‐phase catalytic system, consisting of an aqueous phase, a hydrophobic ionic‐liquid phase, and a solid‐acid catalyst phase of nanostructured vanadium phosphate and mesostructured cellular foam (VPO–MCF), is developed for efficient conversion of biomass‐derived fructose to 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). HMF is a promising, versatile building block for production of value‐added chemicals and transportation fuels. The essence of this three‐phase system lies in enabling the isolation of the solid‐acid catalyst from the aqueous phase and regulation of its local environment by using a hydrophobic ionic liquid, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([BMIM][Tf2N]). This system significantly inhibits the side reactions of HMF with H2O and leads to 91 mol % selectivity to HMF at 89 % of fructose conversion. The unique three‐phase catalytic system opens up an alternative avenue for making solid‐acid catalyst systems with controlled and locally regulated microenvironment near catalytically active sites by using a hydrophobic ionic liquid
Propulsive Force in an Electric Solar Sail
Authors: Sanchez‐Torres Antonio
Published: April 2014

An electric solar sail (e‐sail) is a promising propellantless propulsion concept for the exploration of the Solar System. An e‐sail consists of an array of bare conductive tethers at very high positive/negative bias, capable of extracting solar‐wind momentum by Coulomb deflection of protons. The present work focuses on the positivebias case with a potential profile that must be correctly modeled. Ion scattering does occur at some point of the profile and the resulting thrust is determined; that thrust scales slower with distance to the Sun, than it was previously suggested in the literature. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Machine‐Learning‐Based Controller Design for Discrete‐Valued Input Systems
Authors: Konaka Eiji
Published: April 2014

Switching and ON/OFF controls are effective control techniques for control systems equipped with low‐resolution actuators. Such control mechanisms can be modeled as control systems that restrict the control input to discrete values. In this paper, a controller design method based on a machine‐learning technique is discussed. The relationship between the current situation (previous input sequence and previous output sequence), applied input, and output evolution is learned by applying certain machine‐learning methods. Specifically, machine‐learning methods such as the approximate nearest neighbor (ANN) method and support vector machine (SVM) are used in this study. The trained classifier will be a controller that connects the current situation and a suitable control input that can drive the current output to the desired one. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified for discrete input systems via simulations and experiments.
Active Noise Control System Using SSCF Adaptive Algorithm
Authors: Kobayashi Masaki , Tanaka Yusaku , Shimada Takuma , Nagasaka Yasunori , Sasaoka Naoto , Itoh Yoshio
Published: April 2014

It is known that the SSCF (square sum of correlation function) adaptive algorithm is robust to sound noise added at the input. In this paper we propose an active noise control system using the SSCF adaptive algorithm. A comparison of the required degree of the adaptive filter to the conventional system using the Filtered‐x adaptive algorithm is presented. Analysis and the numerical verifications of the convergence performance of this system are also presented.
A Robust Frequency Sampling Adaptive Notch Filter for Broadband Signals
Authors: Kobayashi Masaki , Nagasaka Yasunori
Published: April 2014

An adaptive notch filter composed of an exponential type all‐pass circuit has stable and the robust characteristics for broadband signals. In this paper, we propose a method of reducing the number of adaptive parameters and the adaptive algorithm using a frequency sampling adaptive filter with reduction of the phase shift samples. It is shown that a reduction of an order of magnitude or more is possible by use of the properties of a notch filter with small bandwidth.
Local Descent Direction Vector‐Based Differential Evolution for Multiobjective Optimization
Authors: Kamiyama Daichi , Tamura Kenichi , Yasuda Keiichiro
Published: April 2014

Differential evolution (DE) is an effective optimization method for global continuous optimization problems. Recently, we developed local descent direction vector based differential evolution (LDDVDE), which uses local descent direction vectors based on the operation vectors in order to improve the local search performance of DE. In this paper, we extend LDDVDE to multiobjective optimization problems. We adopt the hyper‐volume indicator to order the operation vectors to make the local descent direction vectors for the case of multiobjective optimization problems. The effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed through some numerical experiments for typical benchmark problems.
Nerve Agent Degradation with Polyoxoniobates
Authors: Kinnan Mark K. , Creasy William R. , Fullmer Lauren B. , Schreuder‐Gibson Heidi L. , Nyman May
Published: April 2014

Polyoxoniobates are exceptional amongst polyoxometalates in that they can potentially perform base catalysis in water, a process in which a proton is bonded to an oxo ligand, and a hydroxyl is released. Catalytic decomposition of chemical warfare agents such as organofluorophosphates that were used recently in the infamous civilian attacks in Syria is one opportunity to employ this process. Upon evaluation of the polyoxoniobate Lindqvist ion, [Nb6O19]8–, fast neutralization kinetics was discovered for the breakdown of the nerve agent simulant diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP). The polyoxoniobates were also tested against the nerve agents Sarin (GB) and Soman (GD). It was determined that different Lindqvist countercations (Li, K, or Cs) affect the rate of decomposition of the organophosphate compounds in both aqueous media (homogeneous reaction), and in the solid state (heterogeneous reaction). Small‐angle X‐ray scattering analysis of solutions of the Li, K, and Cs salts of [Nb6O19]8– for concentrations at which the experiments were performed revealed distinct differences that could be linked to their relative reaction rates. This study represents the first demonstration of exploiting the unique alkaline reactivity of polyoxoniobates for nerve agent decontamination.
Magnetic Study of a Pentanuclear {Co2IIICo3II} Cluster with a Bent {CoII3} Motif
Authors: Lazzarini Irene C. , Funes Alejandro V. , Carrella Luca , Sorace Lorenzo , Rentschler Eva , Alborés Pablo
Published: April 2014

We have synthesised and structurally characterised a new pentanuclear mixed‐valent cobalt cluster of formula [CoII3CoIII2(OH)2(piv)6(L)2(H2O)4] (piv = trimethylacetate, H2L = salicylideneanthranillic acid) from reaction of a dinuclear cobalt pivalate precursor with a Schiff base type ligand under mild reaction conditions. The core structure can be conveniently described as two fused Co3–μ3–OH triangles with a strict unique sharing vertex point. A complete picture of the magnetic behaviour of this compound is presented. Through combined use of susceptibility, magnetisation, and EPR data as well as broken‐symmetry DFT calculations, we have supported the magnetic data that show weak and anisotropic exchange interaction between CoII ions affording an Seff = 1/2 ground state that is not completely isolated from the low‐lying excited doublets at low temperature. Under the optimum applied field of 2 kOe, a frequency‐dependent out‐of‐phase susceptibility signal can be observed below 4 K. However, no reliable relaxation rates could be extracted due to the narrow temperature range in which this behaviour was observed.
A Three‐Step Synthesis of the Guaianolide Ring System
Authors: Hullaert Jan , Laplace Duchan R. , Winne Johan M.
Published: April 2014

By using a gallium(III) triflate catalyzed intramolecular (4+3) cycloaddition, a few functionalized furan‐derived tricycles that share the common guaianolide sesquiterpene ring system were prepared in a stereoselective manner in only three steps from commercially available starting materials. A discussion of the formation of alternative products is included, with possible substrate requirements to achieve the key cycloaddition step in an efficient way.
Enhancing bioethanol production from delactosed whey permeate by upstream desalination techniques
Authors: Wagner Christopher , Benecke Christian , Buchholz Heinrich , Beutel Sascha
Published: April 2014

Industrial cheese whey processing comprises generally the isolation of proteins and lactose, but the economic use for the residual molasses, the so‐called delactosed whey permeate (DWP), is still to be improved. One possibility to maximize valorization and to minimize waste water treatment is the conversion of the remaining lactose in the DWP to ethanol by the yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus. This fermentation process depends strongly on the total ash content of the DWP, as high salt concentrations inhibit yeast metabolism. Here, three different approaches were tested to lower the DWP salt content: (i) simple dilution; (ii) nanofiltration; and (iii) electrodialysis. Lactose consumption, ethanol production and time‐dependent yields were compared between the three methods. A dilution of DWP to 60% v/v led to fermentation taking less than 80 h and yield above 7% AbV (alcohol by volume). After nanofiltration, 7.5% AbV was produced in about 80 h, and after electrodialysis, 11% AbV was produced in about 52 h. On the one hand the technical treatments (nanofiltration and electrodialysis) led to enhanced productivity in the fermentations, but, on the other hand, elaborate and extensive preprocessing is needed. Overall, ethanol production from DWP could be enhanced by prior partial desalination.
Testing of the Katrix rotary lobe expander for distributed concentrating solar combined heat and power systems
Authors: Norwood Zack , Kammen Daniel , Dibble Robert
Published: April 2014

In this article, we present performance results and analysis of a novel rotary lobe expander device. This is part of a larger research effort into the analysis and design of a small‐scale solar system that would compete with available distributed technologies for heat and electricity generation. To choose an appropriate working fluid and components for a distributed concentrating solar combined heat and power (DCS‐CHP) system, we compared many different working fluids, collectors, and expander choices. Of the expanders analyzed, including piston expanders, radial inflow turbines, Tesla turbines, screw expanders, and scroll expanders, the rotary lobe expander shows the greatest promise in small‐scale power applications due to its high efficiency in expanding fluids over large pressure ratios and its low cost to manufacture. This article focuses on testing of a prototype small‐scale expander that was chosen because, to date, no suitable commercial product of less than 10 kW has been found for this application. Initial testing was completed with air to get results that should be indicative of future testing with steam. The test system consists of a compressed air expander (a prototype designed by Katrix, Inc. of Australia) connected to an induction motor driven by a variable frequency drive (VFD) that enables expander testing at varying shaft speeds. Results of the expander testing are reported isentropic efficiencies of 22–25%, thermomechanical efficiencies of 80–95%, and pressure ratios of 6–11 at the tested speeds. Despite mixed results from this particular expander, future refinements could lead to a new class of expanders with low cost and high performance for use in solar combined heat and power and waste‐heat recovery.
Lepong: A New Obsidian Source in the Admiralty Islands, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Summerhayes Glenn R. , Kennedy Jean , Matisoo‐Smith Elizabeth , Mandui Herman , Ambrose Wal , Allen Charlotte , Reepmeyer Christian , Torrence Robin , Wadra François
Published: April 2014

A new obsidian source from northwest Manus, Papua New Guinea, is reported for the first time. The chemical signature for this new source was obtained using the electron microprobe, ICP‐MS, and PIXE‐PIGME, and the results were compared with known sources and artifacts from this region. The results show for the first time a more complex scenario of obsidian procurement and exchange than previously thought. Archaeological excavation and survey of Manus is so far very limited, with only one excavated Pleistocene site. Much more archaeological work is needed to find more early sites, to assess the distributions of material from Lepong and other obsidian sources, and model obsidian transfers in more detail.
Valid Monte Carlo Permutation Tests for Genetic Case‐Control Studies With Missing Genotypes
Authors: Kinnamon Daniel D. , Martin Eden R.
Published: April 2014

Monte Carlo permutation tests can be formally constructed by choosing a set of permutations of individual indices and a real‐valued test statistic measuring the association between genotypes and affection status. In this paper, we develop a rigorous theoretical framework for verifying the validity of these tests when there are missing genotypes. We begin by specifying a nonparametric probability model for the observed genotype data in a genetic case‐control study with unrelated subjects. Under this model and some minimal assumptions about the test statistic, we establish that the resulting Monte Carlo permutation test is exact level α if (1) the chosen set of permutations of individual indices is a group under composition and (2) the distribution of the observed genotype score matrix under the null hypothesis does not change if the assignment of individuals to rows is shuffled according to an arbitrary permutation in this set. We apply these conditions to show that frequently used Monte Carlo permutation tests based on the set of all permutations of individual indices are guaranteed to be exact level α only for missing data processes satisfying a rather restrictive additional assumption. However, if the missing data process depends on covariates that are all identified and recorded, we also show that Monte Carlo permutation tests based on the set of permutations within strata of individuals with identical covariate values are exact level α. Our theoretical results are verified and supplemented by simulations for a variety of missing data processes and test statistics.
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin and interleukin-4 mediate the pathogenesis of halothane-induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Proctor William R. , Chakraborty Mala , Fullerton Aaron M. , Korrapati Midhun C. , Ryan Pauline M. , Semple Kenrick , Morrison Jeffrey C. , Berkson Julia D. , Chea Lynette S. , Yang Qian , Li Albert P. , Spolski Rosanne , West Erin E. , Rochman Yrina , Leonard Warren J. , Bourdi Mohammed , Pohl Lance R.
Published: April 2014

Liver eosinophilia has been associated with incidences of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) for more than 50 years, although its role in this disease has remained largely unknown. In this regard, it was recently shown that eosinophils played a pathogenic role in a mouse model of halothane-induced liver injury (HILI). However, the signaling events that drove hepatic expression of eosinophil-associated chemokines, eotaxins, eosinophil infiltration, and subsequent HILI were unclear. We now provide evidence implicating hepatic epithelial-derived cytokine thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and type 2 immunity, in particular, interleukin-4 (IL-4) production, in mediating hepatic eosinophilia and injury during HILI. TSLP was constitutively expressed by mouse hepatocytes and increased during HILI. Moreover, the severity of HILI was reduced in mice deficient in either the TSLP receptor (TSLPR) or IL-4 and was accompanied by decreases in serum levels of eotaxins and hepatic eosinophilia. Similarly, concanavalin A–induced liver injury, where type 2 cytokines and eosinophils play a significant role in its pathogenesis, was also reduced in TSLPR-deficient mice. Studies

in vitro

revealed that mouse and human hepatocytes produce TSLP and eotaxins in response to treatment with combinations of IL-4 and proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor alpha.

Conclusion

: This report provides the first evidence implicating roles for hepatic TSLP signaling, type 2 immunity, and eosinophilia in mediating liver injury caused by a drug. (Hepatology 2014;60:1741-1752)
Phosphorylation of ABCB4 impacts its function: Insights from disease-causing mutations
Authors: Gautherot Julien , Delautier Danièle , Maubert Marie-Anne , Aït-Slimane Tounsia , Bolbach Gérard , Delaunay Jean-Louis , Durand-Schneider Anne-Marie , Firrincieli Delphine , Barbu Véronique , Chignard Nicolas , Housset Chantal , Maurice Michèle , Falguières Thomas
Published: April 2014

The ABCB4 transporter mediates phosphatidylcholine (PC) secretion at the canalicular membrane of hepatocytes and its genetic defects cause biliary diseases. Whereas ABCB4 shares high sequence identity with the multidrug transporter, ABCB1, its N-terminal domain is poorly conserved, leading us to hypothesize a functional specificity of this domain. A database of ABCB4 genotyping in a large series of patients was screened for variations altering residues of the N-terminal domain. Identified variants were then expressed in cell models to investigate their biological consequences. Two missense variations, T34M and R47G, were identified in patients with low-phospholipid–associated cholelithiasis or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. The T34M and R47G mutated proteins showed no or minor defect, respectively, in maturation and targeting to the apical membrane, in polarized Madin-Darby Canine Kidney and HepG2 cells, whereas their stability was similar to that of wild-type (WT) ABCB4. By contrast, the PC secretion activity of both mutants was markedly decreased. In silico analysis indicated that the identified variants were likely to affect ABCB4 phosphorylation. Mass spectrometry analyses confirmed that the N-terminal domain of WT ABCB4 could undergo phosphorylation in vitro and revealed that the T34M and R47G mutations impaired such phosphorylation. ABCB4-mediated PC secretion was also increased by pharmacological activation of protein kinases A or C and decreased by inhibition of these kinases. Furthermore, secretion activity of the T34M and R47G mutants was less responsive than that of WT ABCB4 to protein kinase modulators. Conclusion: We identified disease-associated variants of ABCB4 involved in the phosphorylation of its N-terminal domain and leading to decreased PC secretion. Our results also indicate that ABCB4 activity is regulated by phosphorylation, in particular, of N-terminal residues. (Hepatology 2014;60:610–621)
Multidimensional scaling analysis identifies pathological and prognostically relevant profiles of circulating T‐cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Rissiek Anne , Schulze Christian , Bacher Ulrike , Schieferdecker Aneta , Thiele Benjamin , Jacholkowski Anita , Flammiger Anna , Horn Christiane , Haag Friedrich , Tiegs Gisa , Zirlik Katja , Trepel Martin , Tolosa Eva , Binder Mascha
Published: April 2014

Antitumor immunity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is hampered by highly dysfunctional T‐cells. Although certain T‐cell subsets have been reported to be of prognostic significance in this disease, their interplay is complex and it remains incompletely understood which of these subsets significantly drive CLL progression. Here, we determined immunological profiles of 24 circulating T‐cell subsets from 79 untreated individuals by multiparametric flow cytometry. This screening cohort included healthy donors, patients with monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL), Rai 0 CLL and advanced CLL. We applied multidimensional scaling analysis as rigorous and unbiased statistical tool to globally assess the composition of the circulating T‐cell environment and to generate T‐cell scores reflecting its integrity. These scores allowed clear distinction between advanced CLL and healthy controls, whereas both MBL and Rai 0 CLL showed intermediate scores mirroring the biological continuum of CLL and its precursor stages. T‐cell stimulation and suppression assays as well as longitudinal T‐cell profiling showed an increasingly suppressive regulatory function initiating at the MBL stage. Effector function was impaired only after transition to CLL and partially recovered after chemoimmunotherapy. In an independent validation cohort of 52 untreated CLL cases, aberrant T‐cell profiles were significantly associated with shorter time to treatment independently of other prognostic parameters. Random forest modeling predicted regulatory T‐cell, gamma/delta and NKT‐cells, as well as exhaustion of the CD8+ subset as potential drivers of progression. Our data illustrate a pathological T‐cell environment in MBL that evolves toward a more and more suppressive and prognostically relevant profile across the disease stages.
How Simulations Reveal Dynamics, Disorder, and the Energy Landscapes of Biomolecular Function
Authors: Noel Jeffrey K. , Whitford Paul Charles
Published: April 2014

Over the last 40 years, the area of computational molecular biophysics has grown and developed to the point where simulations can now provide detailed mechanistic insights, suggest theoretical principles that underpin function, and provide frameworks for understanding and interpreting experimental measurements. The success of molecular simulations has been the result of the unrelenting development of novel theoretical models, exponential growth in computational resources, and advances in structural biology techniques. Through the continued refinement and application of diverse classes of models, general themes in biomolecular dynamics are beginning to surface. In particular, molecular simulations are highlighting the pervasive role that orderdisorder events play in molecular biology. These dynamic modes of function are transforming our perspective on the role that entropy has in many large‐scale biological processes.
The beneficial effect of Tai Chi on self‐concept in adolescents
Authors: Bao Xueming , Jin Kaimin
Published: April 2014

Previous research has documented the beneficial effect of Tai Chi, but most of the studies focused on elders and patients with specific health conditions. The aim of the study was to test whether Tai Chi can help to improve self‐concept in adolescents with a longitudinal study. The sample comprised 160 students from a Chinese middle school; half of students formed the experimental group and the rest formed the control group. A 1‐year Tai Chi intervention was delivered in 60‐minute sessions, five times a week. Both groups were instructed to complete the measure of self‐concept at the beginning and end of the intervention. Statistical analysis shows the significant reduction of good behaviour, intellectual and school status, popularity and anxiety in the experimental group compared with the control group. The results suggest that the Tai Chi intervention could improve self‐concept in adolescents.
Ionic liquid‐based three phase partitioning (ILTPP) systems for whey protein recovery: ionic liquid selection
Authors: Alvarez‐Guerra Enrique , Irabien Angel
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

The ionic liquid three phase partitioning (ILTPP) technique is a promising alternative to conventional processing technologies for protein separation and purification since it allows protein recovery at the liquid–liquid interface. In previous work, ILTPP has been developed with the BmimBF4/NaH2PO4 system for lactoferrin recovery, a bovine whey protein with important nutraceutical properties. However, BmimBF4 may suffer from hydrolysis when it is in contact with water, so the selection of an alternative ionic liquid with similar results regarding lactoferrin recovery should be sought.

RESULTS

The system based on BmimTfO and phosphate is selected as the most suitable since it combines relatively high LF recoveries at the liquid–liquid interface (83–99%) and chemical stability. The highest LF recoveries occur at moderate acidic pH (3.1–4.0), which may also be improved at relatively low protein concentrations. The process selectivity with respect to bovine serum albumin (another whey protein) varies from 1.1 to 3.0, depending on experimental conditions.

CONCLUSION

ILTPP is a promising technique to recover the protein fraction from bovine whey or to enrich specific proteins such as lactoferrin, so ILTPP could replace alternative techniques such as membranes. The risk of hydrolysis associated with previous ionic liquid ILTPP systems has been successfully overcome. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
MRI‐based computational fluid dynamics for diagnosis and treatment prediction: Clinical validation study in patients with coarctation of aorta
Authors: Goubergrits Leonid , Riesenkampff Eugenie , Yevtushenko Pavlo , Schaller Jens , Kertzscher Ulrich , Hennemuth Anja , Berger Felix , Schubert Stephan , Kuehne Titus
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To reduce the need for diagnostic catheterization and optimize treatment in a variety of congenital heart diseases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is proposed. However, data about the accuracy of CFD in a clinical context are still sparse. To fill this gap, this study compares MRI‐based CFD to catheterization in the coarctation of aorta (CoA) setting.

Materials and Methods

Thirteen patients with CoA were investigated by routine MRI prior to catheterization. 3D whole‐heart MRI was used to reconstruct geometries and 4D flow‐sensitive phase‐contrast MRI was used to acquire flows. Peak systolic flows were simulated using the program FLUENT.

Results

Peak systolic pressure drops in CoA measured by catheterization and CFD correlated significantly for both pre‐ and posttreatment measurements (pre: r = 0.98, p = 0.00; post: r = 0.87, p = 0.00). The pretreatment bias was −0.5 ± 3.33 mmHg (95% confidence interval −2.55 to 1.47 mmHg). CFD predicted a reduction of the peak systolic pressure drop after treatment that ranged from 17.6 ± 5.56 mmHg to 6.7 ± 5.58 mmHg. The posttreatment bias was 3.0 ± 2.91 mmHg (95% CI −1.74 to 5.43 mmHg).

Conclusion

Peak systolic pressure drops can be reliably calculated using MRI‐based CFD in a clinical setting. Therefore, CFD might be an attractive noninvasive alternative to diagnostic catheterization. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:909–916. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of hypertrophic burn scars by combination laser‐cision and pinhole method using a carbon dioxide laser
Authors: Lee Sang Ju , Yeo In Kwon , Kang Jin Moon , Chung Won Soon , Kim Young Koo , Kim Beom Joon , Park Kui Young
Published: April 2014

Background

Hypertrophic burn scars induce cosmetic and functional complications. Although there are various treatment modalities, an ideal method has not yet been found. Recently, numerous laser treatment modalities have been introduced with encouraging results.

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with laser‐cision and pinhole method using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser.

Methods

We conducted retrospective chart review of patients with hypertrophic burn scars treated by combination laser‐cision and pinhole method from January 2007 to December 2012.

Results

Nine patients with hypertrophic burn scars (mean age 31.2 years; range, 13–52 years) were treated with combination therapy over the past 6 years. Subjects were treated with one to three treatment sessions at 1‐year intervals by laser‐cision and five to eight treatment sessions at 2‐ to 3‐month intervals by pinhole method. Two blinded observers evaluated photographs taken at baseline and 6 months after the final treatment. Compared with baseline, there was a mild to moderate improvement in all the patients (Grades 1–4; mean score: 2.89). The patient satisfaction survey revealed a mean improvement score of 3.11.

Conclusion

Combination laser‐cision and pinhole method using a CO2 laser may be a new effective treatment option for patients with hypertrophic burn scars. Lasers Surg. Med. 46:380–384, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Steel shaft guide products for high productivity
Authors: Mawdsley Colin , Stockwell Matt
Published: April 2014

The Tata Steel mill at Skinningrove in the North East of England produces top hat sections for mineshaft guides in sizes 102 and 150 mm. The top hat section is the technically preferred shaft guide choice for modern deep mine shafts. This paper explores the relative service performance of top hat and square hollow section guides in service. Comparative corrosion performance is reviewed and the paper describes work commissioned by Tata Steel (as Corus) undertaken by Aker Kvaerner Engineering to evaluate relative winding speeds, relative loads and fatigue life in service. The experience of supply to UK Potash mining is discussed and the future view of high capacity hoisting and larger section size market need and availability is assessed.
Management of nocturia: The role of antidiuretic pharmacotherapy
Authors: Weiss Jeffrey P. , Juul Kristian V. , Wein Alan J.
Published: April 2014

Strategies to manage nocturia include lifestyle modifications and treatment with alpha‐blockers, antimuscarinic therapies, and antidiuretics. The concept of achieving success should not be limited to reduction of nighttime voids; it should ideally include proof of improvement of conditions generally associated with nocturia, such as falls, quality of life, and overall health. Few studies have looked specifically at parameters other than nocturnal voids, such as sleep latency, first undisturbed sleep period (FUSP), and total sleep time, including their clinical relevance to patient well‐being. Lifestyle modifications, such as voiding before bedtime, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and adjusting medication timing, may be initially effective in mild cases of nocturia. Statistically significant reductions in voiding have been reported with antimuscarinic agents and alpha‐blockers as initial therapy, but these reductions generally are not clinically relevant. The antidiuretic therapy desmopressin acetate, a selective vasopressin receptor 2 agonist, is effective in adults with nocturia associated with nocturnal polyuria; however, hyponatremia can occur. The newest formulation—desmopressin orally disintegrating sublingual tablet (ODST)—has greater bioavailability; thus, lower doses can be used, potentially reducing hyponatremia risk. A phase 3 study demonstrated statistically significant reductions in nocturnal voids for desmopressin ODST 50 and 100 µg versus placebo (−1.18 and −1.43 vs. −0.86; P = 0.02 and P < 0.0001, respectively) in patients with nocturia. Treatment was well‐tolerated, and low‐dose desmopressin ODST was associated with statistically significant increases in duration of FUSP. Development of a validated composite endpoint may help clinicians identify and compare strategies for treating nocturia. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:S19–S24, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Terminology, epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of nocturia
Authors: Van Kerrebroeck Philip , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: April 2014

Nocturia, awaking from sleep to void, has a negative impact on health and well‐being. Nocturia affects men and women and is more prevalent among the elderly. More than two nocturnal voids is considered to be a clinically meaningful threshold associated with significant negative outcomes for health and well‐being, and the timing of awakening has a significant bearing on the negative consequences of nocturia. Several serious underlying pathophysiologic conditions may be associated with nocturia. A thorough history and assessment of number and times of voids, void volume, and fluid intake is essential for determining the etiology of a patient's nocturia. With data obtained from the frequency‐volume chart (FVC), which is used to collect quantitative voiding data, a patient's nocturia may be classified as global polyuria, nocturnal polyuria, reduced bladder capacity, or a combination of these categories. Global polyuria is defined as 24‐hr urinary output that exceeds 40 ml/kg body weight and results in increased 24‐hr urinary frequency. Nocturnal polyuria is defined as more than 20% of daily urine output at night in young patients and more than 33% in elderly patients. Reduced bladder capacity may be a result of idiopathic or neurogenic detrusor overactivity, bladder outlet obstruction, or reduced nocturnal bladder capacity. The pathophysiology underlying the findings of the FVC falls into five main categories: global polyuria, nocturnal polyuria, reduced bladder capacity, sleep disorders, and circadian clock disorders. This review discusses the epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of nocturia. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:S2–S5, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Impact of Rehabilitation and Counseling Services on the Labor Market Activity of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Beneficiaries
Authors: Weathers Robert R. , Bailey Michelle Stegman
Published: April 2014

We use data from a social experiment to estimate the impact of a rehabilitation and counseling program on the labor market activity of newly entitled Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries. Our results indicate that the program led to a 4.6 percentage point increase in the receipt of employment services within the first year following random assignment and a 5.1 percentage point increase in participation in the Social Security Administration's Ticket to Work program within the first three years following random assignment. The program led to a 5.3 percentage point increase, or almost 50 percent increase, in employment, and an $831 increase in annual earnings in the second calendar year after the calendar year of random assignment. The employment and earnings impacts are smaller and not statistically significant in the third calendar year following random assignment, and we describe SSDI rules that are consistent with this finding. Our findings indicate that disability reform proposals focusing on restoring the work capacity of people with disabilities can increase the disability employment rate.
Increasing the affinity of selective bZIP‐binding peptides through surface residue redesign
Authors: Kaplan Jenifer B. , Reinke Aaron W. , Keating Amy E.
Published: April 2014

The coiled‐coil dimer is a prevalent protein interaction motif that is important for many cellular processes. The basic leucine‐zipper (bZIP) transcription factors are one family of proteins for which coiled‐coil mediated dimerization is essential for function, and misregulation of bZIPs can lead to disease states including cancer. This makes coiled coils attractive protein–protein interaction targets to disrupt using engineered molecules. Previous work designing peptides to compete with native coiled‐coil interactions focused primarily on designing the core residues of the interface to achieve affinity and specificity. However, folding studies on the model bZIP GCN4 show that coiled‐coil surface residues also contribute to binding affinity. Here we extend a prior study in which peptides were designed to bind tightly and specifically to representative members of each of 20 human bZIP families. These “anti‐bZIP” peptides were designed with an emphasis on target‐binding specificity, with contributions to design‐target specificity and affinity engineered considering only the coiled‐coil core residues. High‐throughput testing using peptide arrays indicated many successes. We have now measured the binding affinities and specificities of anti‐bZIPs that bind to FOS, XBP1, ATF6, and CREBZF in solution and tested whether redesigning the surface residues can increase design–target affinity. Incorporating residues that favor helix formation into the designs increased binding affinities in all cases, providing low‐nanomolar binders of each target. However, changes in surface electrostatic interactions sometimes changed the binding specificity of the designed peptides.
Non‐target effects of two sunflower seed treatments on Orius insidiosus (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)
Authors: Gontijo Pablo C , Moscardini Valéria F , Michaud JP , Carvalho Geraldo A
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Systemic insecticides used as seed treatments are generally considered to be safe for natural enemies. However, predatory insects may feed directly on plants or use plant products to supplement their diet. This study examined whether chlorantraniliprole or thiamethoxam might negatively impact Orius insidiosus (Say) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) when bugs utilize sunflowers grown from treated seed.

RESULTS

When eggs of O. insidiosus were laid in the stems of treated sunflower seedlings (two‐leaf stage), thiamethoxam reduced egg viability and the longevity of females hatching from these eggs, whereas chlorantraniliprole reduced female survival. Thiamethoxam, but not chlorantraniliprole, reduced female fertility in six‐leaf‐stage plants. Nymphs exposed to thiamethoxam‐treated seedlings had reduced survival, delayed development and reduced fecundity as adults, relative to other treatments, whereas chlorantraniliprole delayed oviposition. Nymphs exposed to six‐leaf‐stage plants did not differ from controls in either treatment. Adults exposed to treated plants expressed no significant differences among treatments for any parameter evaluated for either plant growth stage.

CONCLUSION

Thiamethoxam treatment on sunflower seeds caused lethal and sublethal effects on O. insidiosus, whereas chlorantraniliprole was not lethal to any life stage, although sublethal effects were evident. The nymphal stage was most susceptible, and insecticidal toxicity diminished with plant development. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Discrete‐time network‐based control under scheduling and actuator constraints
Authors: Liu Kun , Fridman Emilia
Published: April 2014

This paper is concerned with the solution bounds for discrete‐time networked control systems via delay‐dependent Lyapunov–Krasovskii methods. Solution bounds are widely used for systems with input saturation caused by actuator saturation or by the quantizers with saturation. The time‐delay approach has been developed recently for the stabilization of continuous‐time networked control systems under the round‐robin protocol and under a weighted try‐once‐discard protocol, respectively. Actuator saturation has not been taken into account. In the present paper, for the first time, the time‐delay approach is extended to the stability analysis of the discrete‐time networked control systems under both scheduling protocols and actuators saturation. The communication delays are allowed to be larger than the sampling intervals. A novel Lyapunov‐based method is presented for finding the domain of attraction. Polytopic uncertainties in the system model can be easily included in our analysis. The efficiency of the time‐delay approach is illustrated on the example of a cart–pendulum system. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Finite‐time attitude control of multiple rigid spacecraft using terminal sliding mode
Authors: Zhou Ning , Xia Yuanqing , Wang Meiling , Fu Mengyin
Published: April 2014

This paper investigates the control problem of finite‐time attitude synchronization and tracking for a group of rigid spacecraft in the presence of environmental disturbances. A new fast terminal sliding manifold is developed for multiple spacecraft formation flying under the undirected graph topology. On the basis of the finite‐time control and adaptive control strategies, two novel decentralized finite‐time control laws are proposed to force the spacecraft attitude error dynamics to converge to small regions in finite time, and adaptive control is applied to reject the disturbance. The finite‐time convergence and stability of the closed‐loop system can be guaranteed by Lyapunov theory. Simulation examples are provided to illustrate the feasibility of the control algorithm. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Bayesian approach to functional mixed‐effects modeling for longitudinal data with binomial outcomes
Authors: Kliethermes Stephanie , Oleson Jacob
Published: April 2014

Longitudinal growth patterns are routinely seen in medical studies where individual growth and population growth are followed up over a period of time. Many current methods for modeling growth presuppose a parametric relationship between the outcome and time (e.g., linear and quadratic); however, these relationships may not accurately capture growth over time. Functional mixed‐effects (FME) models provide flexibility in handling longitudinal data with nonparametric temporal trends. Although FME methods are well developed for continuous, normally distributed outcome measures, nonparametric methods for handling categorical outcomes are limited. We consider the situation with binomially distributed longitudinal outcomes. Although percent correct data can be modeled assuming normality, estimates outside the parameter space are possible, and thus, estimated curves can be unrealistic. We propose a binomial FME model using Bayesian methodology to account for growth curves with binomial (percentage) outcomes. The usefulness of our methods is demonstrated using a longitudinal study of speech perception outcomes from cochlear implant users where we successfully model both the population and individual growth trajectories. Simulation studies also advocate the usefulness of the binomial model particularly when outcomes occur near the boundary of the probability parameter space and in situations with a small number of trials. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relevance of Surgery after Embolization of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Hemorrhage
Authors: Köhler Gernot , Koch Oliver Owen , Antoniou Stavros A. , Mayer Franz , Lechner Michael , Pallwein‐Prettner Leo , Emmanuel Klaus
Published: April 2014

Background

Gastrointestinal and abdominal bleeding can lead to life‐threatening situations. Embolization is considered a feasible and safe treatment option. The relevance of surgery has thus diminished in the past. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of surgery in the management of patients after embolization.

Methods

We performed a retrospective single‐center analysis of outcomes after transarterial embolization of acute abdominal and gastrointestinal hemorrhage between January 2009 and December 2012 at the Sisters of Charity Hospital, Linz. Patients were divided into three groups, as follows: upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB), and abdominal hemorrhage.

Results

Fifty‐four patients with 55 bleeding events were included. The bleeding source could be localized angiographically in 80 %, and the primary clinical success rate of embolization was 81.8 % (45/55 cases). Early recurrent bleeding (<30 days) occurred in 18.2 % (10/55) of the patients, and delayed recurrent hemorrhage (>30 days) developed in 3.6 % (2/55). The mean follow‐up was 8.4 months, and data were available for 85.2 % (46/54) of the patients. Surgery after embolization was required in 20.4 % of these patients (11/54). Failure to localize the bleeding site was identified as predictive of recurrent bleeding (p = 0.009). More than one embolization effort increased the risk of complications (p = 0.02) and rebleeding (p = 0.07).

Conclusions

Surgery still has an important role after embolization in patients with gastrointestinal and abdominal hemorrhage. One of five patients required surgery in cases of early and delayed rebleeding or because of ischemic complications (2/55 both had ischemic damage of the gallbladder) and bleeding consequences.
Skill-relatedness und Resilienz: Fallbeispiel Saarland
Authors: Otto Anne , Nedelkoska Ljubica , Neffke Frank
Published: April 2014

The resilience of a region depends crucially on the extent to which industry-specific human capital can be redeployed across regional economy’s industries. To this end, we present a toolbox to analyze a region’s industrial structure, development prospects and economic resilience that highlights the human capital similarities, or skill-relatedness, among industries. The core of these analyses is the so-called industry space, a network that connects industries with similar human capital requirements. In a case study, we use this toolbox to identify the risks and opportunities for the economic perspectives and resilience of Germany’s state Saarland based on the time period 2008 to 2012. This analysis shows that one important concern for this former old-industrial region is that its traditional manufacturing base is almost unconnected in terms of skill-relatedness to the emerging high-technology activities that are central in the region’s innovation agenda.
La recherche de l’inclusion scolaire à travers les recours offerts aux familles : perspective comparative canadienne dans un contexte francophone minoritaire
Authors: Paré Mona , Bélanger Nathalie
Published: April 2014

Cet article traite de la question des recours offerts en Ontario aux familles dont les enfants sont identifiés comme étant en difficulté, en s’intéressant particulièrement au contexte francophone minoritaire, souvent négligé dans la recherche. Les orientations en faveur d’une approche inclusive de l’éducation encouragent parents et personnel scolaire à travailler conjointement pour assurer des situations d’apprentissage optimales à tous les élèves. La littérature et la recherche jurisprudentielle montrent pourtant que les actions des parents se situent plutôt en aval, quand il s’agit de contester les services que reçoivent leurs enfants. Dans un premier temps, il s’agit d’examiner les orientations politiques en faveur de l’éducation inclusive en Ontario, mais aussi au Manitoba et au Nouveau-Brunswick, qui ont été choisis comme terrains de comparaison en raison de la minorité francophone importante dans ces provinces. Par la suite, les procédures d’appel mises en place pour les parents dans ces contextes bien précis sont identifiées. Enfin, une analyse des affaires portées devant les tribunaux, et particulièrement devant le Tribunal de l’enfance en difficulté de l’Ontario (TEDO), est effectuée, avec une emphase sur les recours par les familles francophones. Les résultats montrent que le TEDO a été saisi moins par des familles francophones qu’anglophones et que la majorité des décisions rendues ont donné raison aux conseils scolaires plutôt qu’aux parents. De plus, malgré une demande parentale en faveur d’une révision de la programmation pédagogique, le TEDO s’est limité à examiner les décisions touchant à l’identification et au placement des élèves, contrairement aux deux provinces examinées en parallèle. Les recours dans les deux autres provinces prennent d’ailleurs d’autres formes qu’en Ontario où les procédures sont particulièrement formalisées, sans pour autant permettre aux parents de mieux se faire entendre. En conclusion, l’efficacité des voies de recours par rapport à l’objectif d’inclusion est discutée.