bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Gully Erosion Occurrence in Forest Lands in Catalonia (Spain)
Authors: Selkimäki Mari , González‐Olabarria José Ramón
Published: April 2016

Gully erosion is an important land degradation process affecting soils around the world. This paper studies gully erosion in forest lands, analysing related local and environmental factors influencing its occurrence in Catalonia (north‐east Spain). The data on gully erosion are based on observations from the Third Spanish National Forest Inventory, and include 157 plots with gully erosion and 9932 non‐eroded plots for reference. The variables studied as potentially related to gully erosion occurrence included characteristics of the forest plots and variables describing drainage areas, such as land use configuration and edaphic and geological characteristics. For evaluating these factors affecting on gully erosion occurrence, a binary logistic model with stepwise selection of variables was used. The final model explained 30·4% of the variance. According to the results, the probability of gully erosion occurrence was increased with larger drainage area, steeper slope, presence of fine textured soils, increased urban land use and presence of unpaved roads. On the other hand, the dominance of forest and the presence of paved roads on the drainage area diminished gully erosion probability. The presented model can be used for mapping the areas with higher gully erosion risk, in an effort to direct land use planning and management in order to mitigate soil losses. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of high filling ratio on the weld strength of hot plate welded calcite filled polypropylene and its comparison with talc filling
Authors: Özes Ç. , Sayer S. , Yeni Ç. , Taşkıran E.
Published: April 2016

In this paper, the effect of the hot plate welding parameters on the weld strength of 40 % calcite filled polypropylene were investigated by utilizing design of experiment and compared to talc filled polypropylene. The plate temperature and the heating time were considered as the process parameters. A mathematical predictive model of the weld strength was developed in terms of welding parameters. The results show that the mathematical model correlates well with the experimental results. The optimum welding parameters of calcite filled polypropylene are determined as 260 °C of plate temperature and heating time of 25 s. The welding strength of the joint welded at optimum parameters is found as 18.32 MPa. Hot plate welding efficiency of the 40 % calcite filled polypropylene is observed to be higher than 40 % talc filled polypropylene material.
Cell interactions and genetic regulation that contribute to testicular Leydig cell development and differentiation
Authors: Martin Luc J.
Published: April 2016

Leydig cells, located within the interstitial compartment of the testis, are major contributors of androgen synthesis and secretion, which play an important role in testis development, normal masculinization, maintenance of spermatogenesis, and general male fertility. Accordingly, dysfunction of Leydig cells may lead to various male reproductive maladies, including primary hypogonadism, cryptorchidism, and hypospadias. A better understanding of how cell interactions and gene regulation contribute to testicular Leydig cell development and differentiation may therefore help limit the incidence of such male reproductive pathologies. Several hormones and signaling molecules have been identified as important regulators of Leydig cell differentiation and function. Recent work on the regulation of testis development, especially of Leydig cells, has focused on the Desert hedgehog and platelet‐derived growth factor signaling pathways. This review outlines recent findings regarding cell interactions and gene regulation involved in the development and regulation of fetal and adult Leydig cell populations. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 470–487, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pseudo Steady‐State Free Precession for MR‐Fingerprinting
Authors: Assländer Jakob , Glaser Steffen J. , Hennig Jürgen
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This article discusses the signal behavior in the case the flip angle in steady‐state free precession sequences is continuously varied as suggested for MR‐fingerprinting sequences. Flip angle variations prevent the establishment of a steady state and introduce instabilities regarding to magnetic field inhomogeneities and intravoxel dephasing. We show how a pseudo steady state can be achieved, which restores the spin echo nature of steady‐state free precession.

Methods

Based on geometrical considerations, relationships between the flip angle, repetition and echo time are derived that suffice to the establishment of a pseudo steady state. The theory is tested with Bloch simulations as well as phantom and in vivo experiments.

Results

A typical steady‐state free precession passband can be restored with the proposed conditions. The stability of the pseudo steady state is demonstrated by comparing the evolution of the signal of a single isochromat to one resulting from a spin ensemble. As confirmed by experiments, magnetization in a pseudo steady state can be described with fewer degrees of freedom compared to the original fingerprinting and the pseudo steady state results in more reliable parameter maps.

Conclusion

The proposed conditions restore the spin‐echo‐like signal behavior typical for steady‐state free precession in fingerprinting sequences, making this approach more robust to B0 variations. Magn Reson Med 77:1151–1161, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Image denoising for real‐time MRI
Authors: Klosowski Jakob , Frahm Jens
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To develop an image noise filter suitable for MRI in real time (acquisition and display), which preserves small isolated details and efficiently removes background noise without introducing blur, smearing, or patch artifacts.

Theory and Methods

The proposed method extends the nonlocal means algorithm to adapt the influence of the original pixel value according to a simple measure for patch regularity. Detail preservation is improved by a compactly supported weighting kernel that closely approximates the commonly used exponential weight, while an oracle step ensures efficient background noise removal. Denoising experiments were conducted on real‐time images of healthy subjects reconstructed by regularized nonlinear inversion from radial acquisitions with pronounced undersampling.

Results

The filter leads to a signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) improvement of at least 60% without noticeable artifacts or loss of detail. The method visually compares to more complex state‐of‐the‐art filters as the block‐matching three‐dimensional filter and in certain cases better matches the underlying noise model. Acceleration of the computation to more than 100 complex frames per second using graphics processing units is straightforward.

Conclusion

The sensitivity of nonlocal means to small details can be significantly increased by the simple strategies presented here, which allows partial restoration of SNR in iteratively reconstructed images without introducing a noticeable time delay or image artifacts. Magn Reson Med 77:1340–1352, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
High resolution spectroscopy and chemical shift imaging of hyperpolarized 129Xe dissolved in the human brain in vivo at 1.5 tesla
Authors: Rao Madhwesha , Stewart Neil J. , Norquay Graham , Griffiths Paul D. , Wild Jim M.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Upon inhalation, xenon diffuses into the bloodstream and is transported to the brain, where it dissolves in various compartments of the brain. Although up to five chemically distinct peaks have been previously observed in 129Xe rat head spectra, to date only three peaks have been reported in the human head. This study demonstrates high resolution spectroscopy and chemical shift imaging (CSI) of 129Xe dissolved in the human head at 1.5 Tesla.

Methods

A 129Xe radiofrequency coil was built in‐house and 129Xe gas was polarized using spin‐exchange optical pumping. Following the inhalation of 129Xe gas, NMR spectroscopy was performed with spectral resolution of 0.033 ppm. Two‐dimensional CSI in all three anatomical planes was performed with spectral resolution of 2.1 ppm and voxel size 20 mm × 20 mm.

Results

Spectra of hyperpolarized 129Xe dissolved in the human head showed five distinct peaks at 188 ppm, 192 ppm, 196 ppm, 200 ppm, and 217 ppm. Assignment of these peaks was consistent with earlier studies.

Conclusion

High resolution spectroscopy and CSI of hyperpolarized 129Xe dissolved in the human head has been demonstrated. For the first time, five distinct NMR peaks have been observed in 129Xe spectra from the human head in vivo. Magn Reson Med 75:2227–2234, 2016. © 2016 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The effect of pore water pressure on tunnel face stability
Authors: Pan Qiujing , Dias Daniel
Published: April 2016

The kinematic approach in combination with numerical simulation is used to examine the effect of pore water pressure on tunnel face stability. Pore water pressure distribution obtained by numerical calculations using FLAC3D is used to interpolate the pore water pressure on a 3D rotational collapse mechanism. Comparisons are made to check the present approach against other solutions, showing that the present approach improves the existing upper bound solutions. Results obtained indicate that critical effective face pressure increases with water table elevation. Several normalized charts are also presented for quick evaluation of tunnel face stability. At the end of the paper, the influence of anisotropic permeability on tunnel face stability is also discussed, showing that the isotropic model leads to an overestimation of the necessary tunnel face pressure for anisotropic soils. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stress urinary incontinence in female neurological patients: long‐term functional outcomes after artificial urinary sphincter (AMS 800TM) implantation
Authors: Phé Véronique , Léon Priscilla , Granger Benjamin , Denys Pierre , Bitker Marc‐Olivier , Mozer Pierre , Chartier‐Kastler Emmanuel
Published: April 2016

Aims

To report the long‐term functional outcomes of artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) implantation in female adult neurological patients suffering from stress urinary incontinence (SUI) due to sphincter deficiency.

Methods

Female patients with neurological disease suffering from SUI due to sphincter deficiency who underwent AUS (AMS 800TM) implantation between 1984 and 2011 were included. Continence rate defined as no need for pads and survival rates of the device without needing explantation or revision using Kaplan–Meier curves were reported.

Results

Overall, 26 patients, median age 49.2 years (IQR 28.5–59.7) were included. The median follow‐up time was 7.5 years (IQR 3.9–23.8). At the end of follow‐up period, 15 patients (57.7%) still had their primary AUS. The AUS was explanted in five women because of infection or erosion. Survival rates, without AUS explantation were 90%, 84%, 84%, and 74% at 5, 10, 15, 20 years, respectively. Survival rates without AUS revision were 75%, 51%, 51%, and 51% at 5, 10, 15, 20 years, respectively. 71.4% of patients with AUS were continent. When considering the 26 initial patients, including the patients in whom the AUS was explanted, the continence rate was 57.7%.

Conclusions

For treating neurogenic sphincter deficiency in the long term, the AMS 800TM can offer a satisfying rate of continence to female patients, with a tolerable rate of explantation and revision. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:764–769, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lot sizing with learning and forgetting in setups: Analytical results and insights
Authors: Teyarachakul Sunantha , Chand Suresh , Tzur Michal
Published: April 2016

This article considers the dynamic lot sizing problem when there is learning and forgetting in setups. Learning in setups takes place with repetition when additional setups are made and forgetting takes place when there is a break between two successive setups. We allow the amount forgotten over a break to depend both on the length of the break and the amount of learning at the beginning of the break. The learning and forgetting functions we use are realistic. We present several analytical results and use these in developing computationally efficient algorithms for solving the problem. Some decision/forecast horizon results are also developed, and finally we present managerial insights based on our computational results. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 63: 93–108, 2016
Linear quadratic regulation for discrete‐time systems with multiplicative noise and multiple input delays
Authors: Li L. , Zhang H. , Fu M.
Published: April 2016

This paper is concerned with the optimal linear quadratic regulation problem for discrete‐time systems with state and control dependent noises and multiple delays in the input. We show that the problem admits a unique solution if and only if a sequence of matrices, which are determined by coupled difference equations developed in this paper, are positive definite. Under this condition, the optimal feedback controller and the optimal cost are presented via some coupled difference equations. Our approach is based on the stochastic maximum principle. The key technique is to establish relations between the costate and the state. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of Electrically Conductive Biocompatible Nanocomposites of Natural Polymer Nanocrystals With Polyaniline via In Situ Chemical Oxidative Polymerization
Authors: Namazi Hassan , Baghershiroudi Mahrokh , Kabiri Roya
Published: April 2016

Electrically conductive biocompatible nanocomposites were synthesized via in situ chemical oxidative polymerization using aniline with starch nanocrystals (SNCs) and their conductivity was investigated. Furthermore, Polyaniline (PANI) conducting nanocomposites with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were prepared and characterized. It was found that the SNCs with platelet‐like structure have stronger ability for deposition of PANI than that of CNCs with rod‐like structure, and in this respect can have better performance. These nanocomposites were formed either with aggregate or nanofibrillar morphology. The morphology of the nanocomposites was characterized with SEM. The electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites was examined by four‐probe method and cyclic voltammetry (CV). Also, the biocompatible SNCs/PANI nanocomposites obtained in this work provide new possibilities in biomedical applications, tissue engineering and bio‐actuators in the future. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E49–E56, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Organo‐Phosphorus Flame Retardants for Poly(vinyl chloride)/Wood Flour Composite
Authors: Hoang DongQuy , Pham ThuyLinh , Nguyen ThuHien , An Haiyan , Kim Jinhwan
Published: April 2016

A series of organo‐phosphorus flame retardants (FRs) were studied in order to investigate their flame retarding performances for poly(vinyl chloride)/wood flour (PVC‐WF) composite. The FRs used include diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAP), aluminum hydrogen phosphonate (AHP), and triphenyl phosphate (TPP). The effects of incorporating different FRs into PVC‐WF were determined by UL‐94, TGA, FTIR, and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE‐SEM). The results revealed significantly improved flame retardancy and thermal stability of PVC‐WF in the presence of FR. V‐0 ratings can be obtained at loading of FR as low as 1 wt% for DAP and 1.5 wt% for TPP but the same rating is recorded for the mixture containing 20 wt% AHP. AHP mainly acted in condensed phase whereas TPP and DAP generated phosphorus volatiles and/or fuel dilution compounds. TGA analysis was utilized to calculate the kinetic parameters of PVC‐WF and PCV‐WF/FR as well as to study the interaction between FR and PVC‐WF. FE‐SEM and FTIR were used to examine the morphologies and chemical components of the residual char. The results showed that PVC‐WF/FR produced phosphorus‐containing moieties during decomposition, which could act as dehydration agents to form char layer to protect the mixture from further degradation. The flexural and impact properties of composite increased with addition of FR at low loading and decreased with high loading of FR. By the incorporation of TPP in PVC‐WF, the glass transition is decreased; however, the storage modulus in the low‐temperature glass state is increased. This effect is attributed to antiplasticizing ability of TPP for PVC‐WF system. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:961–970, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles addition on structure properties of poly(l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) After gamma sterilization
Authors: Urbanek Olga , Pierini Filippo , Choińska Emilia , Sajkiewicz Paweł , Bil Monika , Święszkowski Wojciech
Published: April 2016

Physical and chemical factors resulting from the sterilization methods may affect the structure and properties of the materials which undergo this procedure. Poly(l‐lactide‐co‐glicolide) (PLGA) is commonly used for medical applications, but, due to its inadequate mechanical properties, it is not recommended for load‐bearing applications. One of the methods for improving PLGA mechanical properties is addition of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nHAp). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nanoparticles addition on PLGA structure and properties after gamma radiation. According to our results, reduction of the molecular mass caused by gamma radiation was lower for PLGA with nHAp addition. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicates an increase of crystallinity caused both by nHAp and gamma radiation. The first phenomenon can be explained by heteronucleation, while the second one is most probably related to higher molecular mobility of degrading polymer. Moreover, addition of nanoparticles increases thermal stability and affects the Young's modulus changes after gamma radiation. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1023–1031, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of Thermal Recycling Temperatures on the Reinforcement Potential of Glass Fibers
Authors: Nagel U. , Yang L. , Kao C. C. , Thomason J. L.
Published: April 2016

In the present work, the reinforcement potential of thermally recycled glass fibers in injection molded Polypropylene (PP) composites was investigated. Microbond tests showed that fiber sizing lost its compatibility to the PP matrix after exposure to temperatures of 250°C in air. The drop of the adhesion between fibers and PP was mirrored by a large reduction of the tensile strength of the injection molded PP composites. In inert atmosphere the degradation of the fiber sizing and the reduction of the IFSS were less rapid than in air but no significant difference was observed above 400°C. It was concluded that thermally recycled glass fibers will require a post‐treatment to act as an effective reinforcement in injection molded PP composites even if the thermal recycling was performed in an inert atmosphere. The post‐treatment will need to improve the compatibility of the fibers to the polymer matrix and the fiber strength. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1032–1040, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Finite Element Analysis of Mechanical Properties of 3D Surface‐Core Braided Composites
Authors: Sun Jin , Wang Yu , Zhou Guangming , Wang Xinwei
Published: April 2016

Three‐dimensional (3D) surface‐core braided composite is a new type of braided composite with a skin‐core structure. Three parameterized structure models of unit‐cell located in the interior, surface and corner regions are established. Under the general periodic boundary conditions, predictions of effective elastic properties and mechanical responses are presented by using the finite element method. The deformation and stress distribution of three unit‐cell models are demonstrated and the effects of braiding parameters on the mechanical properties are investigated in detail. Numerical results indicate that the three unit‐cells have distinctive properties and the effects of surface and corner regions on the mechanical properties of the whole material should be considered to obtain accurate results. Good agreement between the calculated results and available experimental data verifies the applicability of the proposed models. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1076–1088, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Congenital overinflation: prenatal MRI and US findings and outcomes
Authors: Johnston Jennifer H. , Kline‐Fath Beth M. , Bitters Constance , Calvo‐Garcia Maria A. , Lim Foong‐Yen Y.
Published: April 2016

Objective

The purpose is to describe fetal MR and US findings of congenital overinflation (CO) and to correlate with postnatal outcome.

Methods

Two radiologists reviewed fetal MR and US images in 25 fetuses diagnosed with CO. Lesion size, appearance, location, and presence of hydrops were documented. Chart review was performed for pregnancy outcome, postnatal imaging, interventions, histopathology, and clinical outcome.

Results

All lesions demonstrated primarily homogeneous increased echogenicity and MR signal with absent pulmonary vascular distortion. A tubular cystic hilar structure was consistent with a dilated bronchus (68% MR, 25% US). The right lower (32%) and left lower (23%) lobes were most commonly involved. Two cases with central bronchial obstruction resulted in perinatal demise. Of 23 live births, 17 were asymptomatic, 1 symptomatic, and 5 lost to follow‐up. Postnatal CT was performed in 17 of 18 patients confirming CO. Histopathology in nine patients revealed bronchial anomalies with hyperinflated (n = 7) or polyalveolar lung (n = 2). Nine patients were observed and remained asymptomatic.

Conclusions

Fetal MR and US demonstrate a consistent pattern of imaging findings in fetuses with CO. Many cases are asymptomatic and can be managed with nonsurgical conservative therapy. CO because of central bronchial obstruction is associated with a guarded prognosis. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Placental and fetal hemodynamics in prolonged pregnancies
Authors: Kauppinen Tuomas , Kantomaa Tiina , Tekay Aydin , Mäkikallio Kaarin
Published: April 2016

What's Already Known About This Topic?

Risk for an adverse outcome is increased in prolonged pregnancies.

Nulliparity and oligohydramnios are independent risk factors for adverse outcome in prolonged pregnancies.

What Does This Study Add?

Comprehensive Doppler assessments of placental and fetal central and peripheral hemodynamics prior to the induction of labor do not differ in prolonged pregnancies with favorable and unfavorable outcomes, indicating that their value is limited in the intermittent fetal surveillance and in the prediction of adverse outcomes in prolonged pregnancies.
Monomer casting nylon‐6‐b‐polyether amine copolymers: Synthesis and antistatic property
Authors: Xiang Meng , Xu Sheng , Li Chengjie , Ye Lin
Published: April 2016

MC nylon‐6‐b‐polyether amine(PEA)copolymers were synthesized with macroinitiator based on amino‐terminated PEA functionalized with isocyanate via in situ polymerization. It was found that introduction of PEA delayed the polymerization process of caprolactam, resulting in the decrease of molecular weight of the copolymer. With increasing content of PEA, the melting peak started declining and widening, while the crystallinity and crystal grain size decreased, indicating weakening of the crystallization ability of nylon‐6 matrix. The fracture surfaces of the copolymer changed from irregular mosaic to the striation, presenting tough fracture characteristic, and the notched impact strength of the copolymers were improved dramatically. The electrical resistivity of the copolymers was increased by three orders of magnitude, and kept stable with prolonging storage time, indicating a permanently antistatic ability. The improved antistatic mechanism was deduced by the increase of concentration of oxygen atom and CO group on the surface of the copolymers with increasing PEA content. The water contact angle decreased and surface tension increased, and finally the hydrophilicity of the copolymers was enhanced, resulting in the fairly good antistatic behavior of the copolymers by absorbing moisture from air. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:817–828, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Polyvinyl butyral chemically modified with a silane agent in the molten state
Authors: Sônego Marília , Costa Lidiane Cristina , Ambrósio José Donato
Published: April 2016

Recycled polyvinyl butyral (PVB) from the automotive industry was chemically modified by melt mixing with a vinyl trimethoxysilane (VTMS) silanation reagent, which tends to react with the hydroxyls present in the PVB structure to generate crosslinked bonds between the chains. This chemical modification resulted in the improvement of the solvent resistance to organic solvents without deeply impairing the mechanical properties of the polymer. The mixing of PVB with VTMS was carried out in an internal mixer equipped with roller type rotors and the mixture was subsequently compression molded. Soxhlet extraction confirmed a 70% increase in the modified polymer gel content. Depending on the mixing time, the dynamic crosslinking reactions occurring during this time did not prevent the compression molding of the polymer. Furthermore, static crosslinking was observed during compression molding, which resulted in the maximum crosslinking degree and solvent resistance. DMA analysis indicated different molecular structures produced by different mixing times and varying static and dynamic crosslink ratios. Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) indicated that dibutyl sebacate was the main plasticizer of the recycled PVB. Thermogravimetric analysis suggested that the molecular structure of the modified polymer affected the decomposition of PVB. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 56:971–979, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Critical role of depressurization and effects of saturation conditions in the formation of β‐Crystal during isotactic polypropylene foaming with supercritical CO2
Authors: Cao XianWu , Qiao YaHui , Chen YiXin , He GuangJian , Lin Hong
Published: April 2016

The melting behavior and crystalline forms of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) samples crystallized under different conditions of pressure and temperature were investigated using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), respectively. When treated with dynamic supercritical CO2(Sc‐CO2), iPP samples undergo the formation of β‐crystal that does not occur on the treatment with atmospheric pressure and static supercritical CO2(Sc‐CO2) pressure. In addition, the relative content of β‐crystal has deep dependence on melt state and depressurization rate. Depressurization plays very critical role in the formation of β‐crystal by means of imposing three‐dimensional tensile field during cell growth. The tensile field induced α‐row nuclei where the formation of β‐crystal occurred. This finding will provide one new method to induce β‐crystal in iPP parts. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 56:980–986, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Modification of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) membranes by impregnation with the ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate for proton exchange membrane fuel cell applications
Authors: Guerreiro da Trindade Letícia , Regina Becker Márcia , Celso Fabrício , Petzhold Cesar L. , Martini Emilse M.A. , de Souza Roberto F.
Published: April 2016

Sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) membranes were modified by impregnation with the ionic liquid (IL) 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMI.BF4) by immersion into an IL aqueous solution for different periods of time. The modified membranes were investigated by thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), ion exchange capacity (IEC), and conductivity. The SPEEK membrane immersed into the IL aqueous solution for 2 min showed greater dimensional and thermal stability than the pristine SPEEK membrane, and achieved higher decomposition temperatures. It also presented a higher conductivity value (1.0 mS cm−1), indicating that BMI.BF4 is a promoter of proton conductivity. The membrane electrode assembly (MEA) produced reached maximum values of power density of 0.13 W cm−2 and current density of 0.54 A cm−2 during fuel cell operation. The results indicate that the SPEEK membrane modified by immersion for 2 min is promising for use in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Its performance yielded values very close to those obtained with Nafion, which reaches maximum values of power density of 0.19 W cm−2 and current density of 0.77 A cm−2. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 56:1037–1044, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Examining the thermal behaviour of novel aromatic polybenzoxazine blends containing an organophosphorous compound and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane reagents
Authors: Kopsidas Sotirios , Hamerton Ian
Published: April 2016

2,2‐Bis(3,4‐dihydro‐3‐phenyl‐2H‐1,3‐benzoxazine)propane (BA‐a) is blended with various commercial polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) reagents and an organophosphorous compound, bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)phenylphosphine oxide (BPPO), at a range of loadings (1–10 wt%). The influence of the additives on the onset and rate of polymerisation of BA‐a is examined using differential scanning calorimetry. An initial screen of blends containing various additives (5 wt%) shows that a combination of aminoethylaminopropyl isobutyl POSS (AEAP) and BPPO has the greatest effect on reactivity with a reduction in reaction onset of some 65 K and an increase in glass transition temperature of 18 K when compared with the BA‐a homopolymer. The activation energy for the polymerisation of BA‐a containing 5 wt% AEAP is determined to be 84–88 kJ mol−1 (using Kissinger and Ozawa kinetic models), with a first‐order rate constant of 1.9 × 108 s−1. The thermal stability of the cured blends containing 5 wt% flame retardant is examined using thermogravimetric analysis, and both onset of degradation and char yield are increased by 15 K and 5%, respectively, when compared with the BA‐a homopolymer. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Proteomic differences between native and tissue‐engineered tendon and ligament
Authors: Kharaz Yalda A. , Tew Simon R. , Peffers Mandy , Canty‐Laird Elizabeth G. , Comerford Eithne
Published: April 2016

Tendons and ligaments (T/Ls) play key roles in the musculoskeletal system, but they are susceptible to traumatic or age‐related rupture, leading to severe morbidity as well as increased susceptibility to degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis. Tissue engineering represents an attractive therapeutic approach to treating T/L injury but it is hampered by our poor understanding of the defining characteristics of the two tissues. The present study aimed to determine differences in the proteomic profile between native T/Ls and tissue engineered (TE) T/L constructs. The canine long digital extensor tendon and anterior cruciate ligament were analyzed along with 3D TE fibrin‐based constructs created from their cells. Native tendon and ligament differed in their content of key structural proteins, with the ligament being more abundant in fibrocartilaginous proteins. 3D T/L TE constructs contained less extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and had a greater proportion of cellular‐associated proteins than native tissue, corresponding to their low collagen and high DNA content. Constructs were able to recapitulate native T/L tissue characteristics particularly with regard to ECM proteins. However, 3D T/L TE constructs had similar ECM and cellular protein compositions indicating that cell source may not be an important factor for T/L tissue engineering.
Conformational characterization of the intrinsically disordered protein Chibby: Interplay between structural elements in target recognition
Authors: Killoran Ryan C. , Sowole Modupeola A. , Halim Mohammad A. , Konermann Lars , Choy Wing‐Yiu
Published: April 2016

The protein Chibby (Cby) is an antagonist of the Wnt signaling pathway, where it inhibits the binding between the transcriptional coactivator β‐catenin and the Tcf/Lef transcription factors. The 126 residue Cby is partially disordered; its N‐terminal half is unstructured while its C‐terminal half comprises a coiled‐coil domain. Previous structural analyses of Cby using NMR spectroscopy suffered from severe line broadening for residues within the protein's C‐terminal half, hindering detailed characterization of the coiled‐coil domain. Here, we use hydrogen/deuterium exchange‐mass spectrometry (HDX‐MS) to examine Cby's C‐terminal half. Results reveal that Cby is divided into three structural elements: a disordered N‐terminal half, a coiled‐coil domain, and a C‐terminal unstructured extension consisting of the last ∼ 25 residues (which we term C‐terminal extension). A series of truncation constructs were designed to assess the roles of individual structural elements in protein stability and Cby binding to TC‐1, a positive regulator of the Wnt signaling pathway. CD and NMR data show that Cby maintains coiled‐coil structure upon deletion of either disordered region. NMR and ITC binding experiments between Cby and TC‐1 illustrate that the interaction is retained upon deletion of either Cby's N‐terminal half or its C‐terminal extension. Intriguingly, Cby's C‐terminal half alone binds to TC‐1 with significantly greater affinity compared to full‐length Cby, implying that target binding of the coiled‐coil domain is affected by the flanking disordered regions.
Edoxaban Exposure‐Response Analysis and Clinical Utility Index Assessment in Patients With Symptomatic Deep‐Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Nyberg J , Karlsson KE , Jönsson S , Yin OQP , Miller R , Karlsson MO , Simonsson USH
Published: April 2016

Edoxaban exposure‐response relationships from the phase III study evaluating edoxaban for prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE) were assessed by parametric time‐to‐event analysis. Statistical significant exposure‐response relationships were recurrent VTE with hazard ratio (HR) based on average edoxaban concentration at steady state (Cav) (HRCav) = 0.98 (i.e., change in the HR with every 1 ng/mL increase of Cav); the composite of recurrent DVT and nonfatal PE with HRCav = 0.99; and the composite of recurrent DVT, nonfatal PE, and all‐cause mortality HRCav = 0.98, and all death using maximal edoxaban concentration (Cmax) with HR (Cmax) = 0.99. No statistical significant exposure‐response relationships were found for clinically relevant bleeding or major adverse cardiovascular event. Results support the recommendation of once‐daily edoxaban 60 mg, and a reduced 30 mg dose in patients with moderate renal impairment, body weight ≤60 kg, or use of P‐glycoprotein inhibitors verapamil or quinidine.
Identify Important Factors for Service Simulation Experiments Using QFD
Authors: Dror Shuki
Published: April 2016

Service design is a form of conceptual design, which involves the activity of planning and organizing people, infrastructure, communication and material components of a service in order to improve its performances. A simulation experiment models various scenarios of a service system. One of the aims of the designer is selecting appropriate factors for the determination of the simulation scenarios. The complete set of possible scenarios is huge, and it is often useful to obtain subjective input to help screen out some vital factors. Taguchi advocates a three‐stage design procedure for off‐line quality control: (i) system design; (ii) parameter design; and (iii) tolerance design. In the parameter design stage, which is the key stage in Taguchi method, factors affecting the performance of Y are categorized as controllable factors and noise factors. In this paper, a Quality Function Deployment matrix highlights controllable factors and noise factors to be considered when running a simulation experiment for a service system. It is assumed that interactions between the factors might be changed for each performance measure, that is, several roofs, corresponding to the number of rows in the Quality Function Deployment matrix. The mean square error criterion is utilized here for selecting the vital service factors to be examined in the simulation experiments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of Care Dependency Scale in Nursing Homes
Authors: Rajabi Gholamreza , Namadmalan Masoume , Dijkstra Ate , Ghasemzade Roya , Foroughan Mahshid , Zahednejad Shahla
Published: April 2016

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Care Dependency Scale (CDS) in nursing homes.

Design:

Instrument development.

Methods:

The English version of the CDS was translated into Persian. A convenience sample of 140 (100 older people without dementia and 40 patients with dementia) Persian-speaking people were selected from the nursing homes in Ahvaz, Iran. Cronbach’s alpha, discriminant validity, and construct validity (exploratory factor analysis) were examined.

Findings:

Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the CDS has two factors, including psychosocial and somatic factors. Discriminant validity showed that the CDS can differentiate patients with dementia from the older adults without dementia.

Conclusions:

The results of the study showed that the Persian CDS is a reliable and valid scale when used in nursing homes.

Clinical Relevance:

The Persian version of the CDS can help clinicians and nurses to assess patients’ need and the degree of care dependency among older adults in Persian-speaking areas.
Cows, agency, and the significance of operational thinking
Authors: Olaya Camilo
Published: April 2016

The reverence for data as the source of knowledge seems to be the rule in academic activities. In this respect, system dynamics has much to offer. One of its trademarks is “operational thinking”, a distinct attitude that, unlike scientific practices that seek to understand the world by means of data analysis, seeks to transform systems in terms of operations. Operational thinking means to recognize agency as the driving force through which systems actually work: free decision‐makers invent their own future through actions that shape and create systems; they do not obey laws to be discovered by observing the past. System dynamics models provide intelligible explanations that meet such agency. Redesigning and improving human systems require then the capacity to realize and transform operational arrangements, that is, to understand and change decision processes and purposeful actions. Copyright © 2016 System Dynamics Society
Inside Cover Image, Volume 5, Issue 3
Authors: Ota Kinya G. , Abe Gembu
Published: April 2016

The inside cover image, by Kinya G. Ota and Gembu Abe, is based on the Overview Goldfish morphology as a model for evolutionary developmental biology, DOI: 10.1002/wdev.224.

image
In silico methods for drug repurposing and pharmacology
Authors: Hodos Rachel A. , Kidd Brian A. , Shameer Khader , Readhead Ben P. , Dudley Joel T.
Published: April 2016

Data in the biological, chemical, and clinical domains are accumulating at ever‐increasing rates and have the potential to accelerate and inform drug development in new ways. Challenges and opportunities now lie in developing analytic tools to transform these often complex and heterogeneous data into testable hypotheses and actionable insights. This is the aim of computational pharmacology, which uses in silico techniques to better understand and predict how drugs affect biological systems, which can in turn improve clinical use, avoid unwanted side effects, and guide selection and development of better treatments. One exciting application of computational pharmacology is drug repurposing—finding new uses for existing drugs. Already yielding many promising candidates, this strategy has the potential to improve the efficiency of the drug development process and reach patient populations with previously unmet needs such as those with rare diseases. While current techniques in computational pharmacology and drug repurposing often focus on just a single data modality such as gene expression or drug–target interactions, we argue that methods such as matrix factorization that can integrate data within and across diverse data types have the potential to improve predictive performance and provide a fuller picture of a drug's pharmacological action. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2016, 8:186–210. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1337

This article is categorized under:

Analytical and Computational Methods > Computational Methods

Translational, Genomic, and Systems Medicine > Translational Medicine
Long-term outcome following medial open reduction in developmental dysplasia of the hip: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gardner Richard O. E. , Bradley Catharine S. , Sharma Om P. , Feng Lin , Shin Michelle Eyun Jung , Kelley Simon P. , Wedge J. H.
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a serious complication of treatment for developmental dysplasia of the hip. There is ongoing controversy regarding AVN and its influence on hip development following medial open reduction (MOR).

Purpose

The aim of our study was to (1) determine the long-term prevalence of AVN following MOR, (2) evaluate hip development after MOR, and (3) identify predictors of AVN and radiographic outcome at skeletal maturity after MOR.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis of 60 patients (70 hips) who underwent MOR with a mean follow-up of 10.83 years (5.23–16.74) was conducted. AVN was recorded according to Bucholz and Ogden classification and radiographic outcome based on Severin grading. AVN and hip morphology related to length of follow-up were evaluated. Chi-squared and t-tests were used to identify relationships between AVN and other variables. Logistic regression was used to assess predictors of AVN and Severin outcome.

Results

The rate of clinically significant AVN (types 2–4) following MOR was 32.9 % with type 2 accounting for 82.6 % of these cases. While early acetabular development was satisfactory, long-term outcome was unsatisfactory in 26 % of cases with AVN (vs 8.7 % of cases without AVN). A higher rate of AVN was identified when hips were immobilized in ≥60° of abduction postoperatively. A higher rate of poor Severin outcome was identified in hips with AVN.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that there is a high rate of AVN and unsatisfactory long-term outcome following MOR. AVN remains a significant concern following MOR surgery for developmental dysplasia of the hip that may not be apparent until long-term evaluation.
A case of gradually manifesting McCune–Albright syndrome with a 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: Honda Tomoko , Itoh Fumiko , Nakamura Kimitoshi , Ohba Takashi , Katabuchi Hidetaka
Published: April 2016

McCune–Albright syndrome (MAS) is characterized by fibrous dysplasia (FD) of bone, café‐au‐lait skin pigmentation, and precocious puberty. Here we report a case of a 12‐year‐old girl with MAS presenting sexual precocity as initial signs, followed by FD of bone with her growth. She was referred to our hospital because of breast budding and abnormal genital bleeding at the age of 2.8 years. On physical examination, her height and weight were greater than two standard deviations of the mean ranges. Hormonal analysis revealed an elevated serum estradiol and suppressed luteinizing hormone and follicle‐stimulating hormone production. Her bone age had advanced, and a 16‐mm monocystic lesion was observed on her right ovary by pelvic ultrasonography. Considering the clinical and paraclinical findings, precocious pseudopuberty was suspected and periodic observations were started. Her estrogen “flare up” was transient and she had repeated similar episodes three times in the following 7 years. She complained of pain in her right hip at the age of 9.6 years, which was diagnosed as FD of bone by fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography. Although no café‐au‐lait skin pigmentation was observed, we made a preliminary diagnosis of MAS. Because clinical evidence for MAS can appear later in the course of recurrent autonomous cysts, careful observation and periodical assessments of patients with suspected MAS is necessary.
Integrated Geophysical and Geological Studies for Mineral Prospecting in Betul-Chhindwara Belt (BCB), Central India
Authors: Kumar Dewashish , Rao D. V. Subba , Sridhar K. , Satyanarayanan M. , Patro Prasanta K.
Published: April 2016

Integrated study combining high resolution electrical resistivity tomography and time domain induced polarization was carried out in Betul-Chhindwara belt Madhya Pradesh, Central India in order to evaluate and delineate the polymetallic sulphide mineralization, its nature, type of deposit and depth. On interpretation of the models results clear cut anomalies revealed showing chargeability ∼2 to 54 mV/V up to a maximum depth of 131m. This range of chargeability signify signature of metallic conductor. Nevertheless the basement rock is clearly mapped, showing substantial resistivity contrast. In addition detailed analysis of the integrated results from geology, geochemistry and Scanning Electron Microscope – Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy resulted from in situ rock samples shows good correlation with resistivity and IP results. This integrated study confirms the presence of conducting sulphide mineral ore body and the results and findings need test drilling at the geophysical anomalous site(s) to confirm the depth persistence and evaluate the metallic conductor.
Distribution, Forms and Spatial Variability of Desert Pavements in Arid Western Rajasthan
Authors: Moharana P. C. , Raja P.
Published: April 2016

A vast area between Phalodi in Jodhpur and Pokaran in Jaisalmer district of western Rajasthan, is occupied distinctly by rocky, shallow gravelly surfaces and occasional hills. These surfaces exhibit quartz and quartzite pebbles, angular, sub-angular and few rounded sandstone gravels, have slightly convex outline and can be best described as desert pavements. Such land features assume significance because of their extent and variability under a dominantly dry aeolian environment. Morphology and distributional pattern of such formations indicate that sediments are either of in-situ origin or may have been transported to a short distance. The present study is based on field level assessment of such surfaces in the above two desert districts. Over much of the area, the profile shows a surficial concentration of gravels followed by thick sand and silt mixed with gravels and then the parent material. There are also occasional rock outcrops of very low relief exhibiting vertical, horizontal and conchoidal pattern of fractures over these surfaces near Pokaran and north of Jaisalmer which indicate disintegration of rocks under extreme diurnal fluctuation of temperature. Such manifestations in the morphology indicate impact of both thermal as well as aeolian processes. In the east of Jaisalmer town near Basanpir and Bhojka, the pavement surfaces are found covered with abundant sub-rounded to rounded pebbles and cobbles. This type of condition would indicate a profound action by fluvial activities followed by wind sorting. Our study found significant spatial variability in the distribution of pavement surfaces, which carried imprints of climatic fluctuations and environment of deposition during Holocene.