bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensified design of experiments for upstream bioreactors
Authors: von Stosch Moritz , Willis Mark J.
Published: September 2016

Statistical Design of Experiments (DoE) is a widely adopted methodology in upstream bioprocess development (and generally across industries) to obtain experimental data from which the impact of independent variables (factors) on the process response can be inferred. In this work, a method is proposed that reduces the total number of experiments suggested by a traditional DoE. The method allows the evaluation of several DoE combinations to be compressed into a reduced number of experiments, which is referred to as intensified Design of Experiments (iDoE). In this paper, the iDoE is used to develop a dynamic hybrid model (consisting of differential equations and a feedforward artificial neural network) for data generated from a simulated Escherichia coli fermentation. For the case study presented, the results suggest that the total number of experiments could be reduced by about 40% when compared to traditional DoE. An additional benefit is the simultaneous development of an appropriate dynamic model which can be used in both, process optimization and control studies.
Transcriptional benchmark dose modeling: Exploring how advances in chemical risk assessment may be applied to the radiation field
Authors: Chauhan Vinita , Kuo Byron , McNamee James P. , Wilkins Ruth C. , Yauk Carole L.
Published: September 2016

Recent advances in “‐omics” technologies have simplified capacity to concurrently assess expression profiles of thousands of targets in a cellular system. However, compilation and analysis of “omics” data in support of human health protection remains a challenge. Benchmark dose (BMD) modeling is currently being employed in chemical risk assessment to estimate acceptable levels of exposure. Although typically applied to conventional endpoints, newer software has enabled this application to be extended to transcriptomic datasets. BMD analytical tools now have the capacity to model transcriptional dose‐response data to derive meaningful BMD values for genes, pathways and gene ontologies. In this report, radiation data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were analyzed to generate BMD values for transcriptional responses. The datasets comprised microarray analyses of human blood gamma‐irradiated ex vivo (0–20 Gy) and human‐derived cell lines exposed to alpha particle radiation (0.5–1.5 Gy). The distributions of BMDs for statistically significant genes and pathways in response to radiation exposure were examined and compared across studies. BMD modeling could identify pathway/gene sensitivities across wide radiation dose ranges, experimental conditions (time‐points, cell types) and radiation qualities. BMD analysis offered a new approach to examine transcriptional data. The results were shown to provide information on transcriptional thresholds of effects to support refined risk assessments for low dose ionizing radiation exposures, derive gene‐based values for relative biological effectiveness and identify pathways involved in radiation sensitivities across cell types which may extend to applications a clinical setting. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:589–604, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes of patients ≥65 years old with advanced cancer treated on phase I trials at MD ANDERSON CANCER CENTER
Authors: Subbiah Ishwaria M. , Wheler Jennifer J. , Hess Kenneth R. , Hong David S. , Naing Aung , Fu Siqing , Kurzrock Razelle , Tsimberidou Apostolia M.
Published: September 2016

Patients ≥65 years with cancer remain underrepresented in clinical trials, particularly in phase I clinical trials. We analyzed the clinical course of patients ≥65 years treated on phase I clinical trials with particular emphasis on toxicities. We identified 347 consecutive patients ≥65 years with advanced cancer in our phase I clinic from 01/2004‐12/2009 and analyzed disease characteristics, toxicities, survival and response. Overall, 251 patients received a targeted agent, of whom 241 (96%) received an investigational, non‐FDA‐approved drug. Clinical benefit (complete response + partial response + stable disease ≥ 6 months) was noted in 61 patients (18%). Eighty‐nine patients (26%) had grade 3/4 toxicity, commonly hematologic, including 6 dose‐limiting toxicities and 1 treatment‐related death (<0.01%). Median overall survival from first Phase I Clinic visit was 8.8 months (95% CI: 7.8–10.6); median time to treatment failure was 1.9 months (95% CI: 1.8–2.1). Multivariable analyses revealed 4 indicators of lack of clinical benefit (liver metastases, performance status [PS] >1, prior radiation, ≥5 prior treatments; p <0.0001). Patients age 70–79 years had a greater risk of grade 3/4 toxicities when treated with combinations (≥2 drugs) compared to monotherapy (p = 0.006). Predictors of shorter time to treatment failure and overall survival included PS >1, thrombocytosis, >2 metastatic sites, and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (p <0.05). Our results suggest that phase I clinical trials are well tolerated in patients ≥65 years. Additionally, we identified risk factors that may facilitate patient selection for clinical trial participation.
CATEGORICAL DIAGNOSIS OF EXTREME HYPERACTIVITY, IMPULSIVITY, AND INATTENTION IN VERY YOUNG CHILDREN
Authors: Gleason Mary Margaret , Humphreys Kathryn L.
Published: September 2016

Severe hyperactivity and impulsivity are common reasons for referral to infant mental health services. Past versions of ZERO TO THREE's () diagnostic nosology, the Diagnostic Classification of Mental and Developmental Disorders in Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0–3), did not address this clinical issue because it had been addressed in other nosologies. These general diagnostic nosologies describe attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but with little attention to developmentally specific aspects of the diagnosis in very young children. Categorical diagnosis related to hyperactivity and impulsivity in very young children warrants careful review of existing literature. Explicit attention must be paid to ensure that categorical diagnoses serve to describe syndromes that cause significant impairment to the family to allow children and families to access effective supports and ensure that behaviors typical of the developmental level are not described as pathologic. This article reviews proposed diagnostic criteria for ADHD and overactivity disorder of toddlerhood as well as the rationale for the criteria and evidence supporting validity and reliability of the diagnoses in very young children. Clinical implications also are presented.
Economic Transition and Growth: A Replication
Authors: Schnurbus Joachim , Haupt Harry , Meier Verena
Published: September 2016

Phillips and Sul (Journal of Applied Econometrics 2009, 24, 1153–1185) provide an algorithm to identify convergence clubs in a dynamic factor model of economic transition and growth. We provide a narrow replication of their key results, using the open source R software instead of the original GAUSS routines. We are able to exactly replicate their results on convergence clubs, corresponding point estimates and standard errors. We comment on minor differences between their reported results and their clustering algorithm. We propose simple adjustments of the original algorithm to make manual intervention unnecessary. The adjustments allow automated application of the algorithm to other data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cellular responses of osteoblast‐like cells to 17 elemental metals
Authors: Zhang Dongmei , Wong Cynthia S , Wen Cuie , Li Yuncang
Published: September 2016

Elemental metals have been widely used to alloy metallic orthopedic implants. However, there is still insufficient research data elucidating the cell responses of osteoblastic cells to alloying elemental metals, which impedes the development of new metallic implant materials. In this study, the cellular responses of osteoblast‐like cells (SaOS2) to 17 pure alloying elemental metals, that is, titanium (Ti), zirconium (Zr), hafnium (Hf), vanadium (V), niobium (Nb), tantalum (Ta), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), ruthenium (Ru), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), silicon (Si), and tin (Sn) were comparatively investigated in vitro. Cellular responses including intracellular total protein synthesis and collagen content, cell adhesion, cell proliferation, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity on these elemental metals were systematically assessed and compared. It was found that these elemental metals could be categorized into three groups based on the cellular functions on them. Group 1, including Ti, Zr, Hf, Nb, Ta, Cr, Ru, and Si, showed excellent cell proliferation and varied ALP activity for SaOS2 cells. Cells exposed to Group 2, including Mo and Sn, although initially attached and grew, did not proliferate over time. In contrast, Group 3, including V, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn, showed severe cytotoxicity toward SaOS2 cells. It is vital to consider the cell responses to the elemental metals when designing a new metallic implant material and the findings of this study provide insights into the biological performance of the elemental metals. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 148–158, 2017.
Sol–gel derived bioactive coating on zirconia: Effect on flexural strength and cell proliferation
Authors: Shahramian Khalil , Leminen Heidi , Meretoja Ville , Linderbäck Paula , Kangasniemi Ilkka , Lassila Lippo , Abdulmajeed Aous , Närhi Timo
Published: September 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of sol–gel derived bioactive coatings on the biaxial flexural strength and fibroblast proliferation of zirconia, aimed to be used as an implant abutment material. Yttrium stabilized zirconia disc‐shaped specimens were cut, ground, sintered, and finally cleansed ultrasonically in each of acetone and ethanol for 5 minutes. Three experimental groups (n = 15) were fabricated, zirconia with sol–gel derived titania (TiO2) coating, zirconia with sol–gel derived zirconia (ZrO2) coating, and non‐coated zirconia as a control. The surfaces of the specimens were analyzed through images taken using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and a non‐contact tapping mode atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to record the surface topography and roughness of the coated specimens. Biaxial flexural strength values were determined using the piston‐on‐three ball technique. Human gingival fibroblast proliferation on the surface of the specimens was evaluated using AlamarBlue assay™. Data were analyzed using a one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post‐hoc test. Additionally, the biaxial flexural strength data was also statistically analyzed with the Weibull distribution. The biaxial flexural strength of zirconia specimens was unaffected (p > 0.05). Weibull modulus of TiO2 coated and ZrO2 coated groups (5.7 and 5.4, respectively) were lower than the control (8.0). Specimens coated with ZrO2 showed significantly lower fibroblast proliferation compared to other groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, sol–gel derived coatings have no influence on the flexural strength of zirconia. ZrO2 coated specimens showed significantly lower cell proliferation after 12 days than TiO2 coated or non‐coated control. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 2401–2407, 2017.
Synonymous Mutations Add a Layer of Complexity in the Diagnosis of Human Osteopetrosis
Authors: Palagano Eleonora , Susani Lucia , Menale Ciro , Ramenghi Ugo , Berger Massimo , Uva Paolo , Oppo Manuela , Vezzoni Paolo , Villa Anna , Sobacchi Cristina
Published: September 2016

Autosomal recessive osteopetroses (AROs) are rare, genetically heterogeneous skeletal diseases with increased bone density that are often lethal if left untreated. A precise molecular classification is relevant for the patient's management, because in some subgroups hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), which is the only curative therapy, is contraindicated. In two unrelated ARO patients, the molecular analysis revealed the presence of a synonymous variant in known ARO genes, namely in the TCIRG1 gene in one patient and in the CLCN7 in the other patient, predicted to impact on the splicing process. In the latter case, sequencing of the transcript confirmed the splicing defect, whereas in the former, for whom an RNA sample was not available, the defect was reconstructed in vitro by the minigene technology. These results strongly suggest that these synonymous changes were responsible for the disease in our patients. Our findings are novel with respect to ARO and add to the few reports in literature dealing with different diseases, underlining the importance of cDNA analysis for the correct assessment of exonic changes, even when exome sequencing is performed. In particular, we highlight the possibility that at least in some cases ARO is due to synonymous changes, erroneously considered clinically silent, in the genes already described in literature, and suggest carefully reevaluating the sequencing results of these genes when mutations are not found at a first analysis. In addition, with respect to the CLCN7 gene, we suggest that synonymous variants might also contribute to the large spectrum of severity typical of CLCN7-dependent osteopetrosis through more subtle, but not negligible, effects on protein availability and functionality. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Vitamin C: an experimental and theoretical study on the gas‐phase structure and ion energetics of protonated ascorbic acid
Authors: Ricci Andreina , Pepi Federico , Cimino Paola , Troiani Anna , Garzoli Stefania , Salvitti Chiara , Di Rienzo Brunella , Barone Vincenzo
Published: September 2016

In order to investigate the gas‐phase mechanisms of the acid catalyzed degradation of ascorbic acid (AA) to furan, we undertook a mass spectrometric (ESI/TQ/MS) and theoretical investigation at the B3LYP/6‐31 + G(d,p) level of theory. The gaseous reactant species, the protonated AA, [C6H8O6]H+, were generated by electrospray ionization of a 10−3 M H2O/CH3OH (1 : 1) AA solution. In order to structurally characterize the gaseous [C6H8O6]H+ ionic reactants, we estimated the proton affinity and the gas‐phase basicity of AA by the extended Cooks's kinetic method and by computational methods at the B3LYP/6‐31 + G(d,p) level of theory. As expected, computational results identify the carbonyl oxygen atom (O2) of AA as the preferred protonation site. From the experimental proton affinity of 875.0 ± 12 kJ mol−1 and protonation entropy ΔSp 108.9 ± 2 J mol−1 K−1, a gas‐phase basicity value of AA of 842.5 ± 12 kJ mol−1 at 298 K was obtained, which is in agreement with the value issuing from quantum mechanical computations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficacy and safety of daclatasvir plus asunaprevir therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients with renal dysfunction
Authors: Nakamura Yuki , Imamura Michio , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Teraoka Yuji , Daijo Kana , Honda Fumi , Morio Kei , Kobayashi Tomoki , Nakahara Takashi , Nagaoki Yuko , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Tsuge Masataka , Hiramatsu Akira , Aikata Hiroshi , Hayes C. Nelson , Miki Daiki , Ochi Hidenori , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: September 2016

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with renal dysfunction. Daclatasvir and asunaprevir combination therapy showed a high virological response for genotype 1 chronic HCV‐infected patients with renal dysfunction on hemodialysis. However, the safety and efficacy of the therapy for patients with renal dysfunction who are not on hemodialysis are not well‐known. In total, 147 patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection were treated with 24 weeks of daclatasvir plus asunaprevir therapy. Among these patients, 126 had normal renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≥ 50 ml/min/1.73 m2) and 21 had renal dysfunction (eGFR < 50 ml/min/1.73 m2). Plasma concentrations of daclatasvir and asunaprevir after 5 days of treatment were the same in the normal renal function and renal dysfunction groups. Early virological response (4, 8, 48, 96, and 168 hr after the start of the therapy) was similar between the two groups. End‐of‐treatment response was achieved in 122 (96.8%) and 20 (95.2%) patients with normal renal function and with renal dysfunction, respectively, and sustained virological response was achieved in 119 (94.4%) and 20 (95.2%) patients. The frequency of adverse events was also comparable between the two groups. Treatment discontinuation due to adverse events was required for only one patient in each group. Renal function did not change either during or after treatment in both groups. In conclusion, renal function is unlikely to have a significant impact on blood kinetics of daclatasvir and asunaprevir. This combination therapy was effective and safe for patients without hemodialysis. J. Med. Virol. 89:665–671, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Droplet digital PCR to investigate quasi‐species at codons 119 and 275 of the A(H1N1)pdm09 neuraminidase during zanamivir and oseltamivir therapies
Authors: Abed Yacine , Carbonneau Julie , L'Huillier Arnaud G. , Kaiser Laurent , Boivin Guy
Published: September 2016

The H275Y and E119D neuraminidase (NA) mutations constitute important molecular markers of resistance to NA inhibitors in A(H1N1) pdm09 viruses. We used reverse transcriptase‐droplet digital PCR amplification (RT‐ddPCR) to analyze quasi‐species at codons 275 and 119 of the NA in A(H1N1) pdm09 viruses recovered from an immuncompromised patient who received oseltamivir and zanamivir therapies. RT‐ddPCR assays detected and quantified H275Y and E119D mutations with an efficiency that was comparable to that of high throughput sequencing (HiSeq 2500 Illumina, San Diego, CA) technology. With its sensitivity and reproducibility, RT‐ddPCR could be a reliable method for accurate detection and quantification of major NAI‐resistance mutations in clinical settings. J. Med. Virol. 89:737–741, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sinus opacification in the intensive care unit patient
Authors: Huyett Phillip , Lee Stella , Ferguson Berrylin J. , Wang Eric W.
Published: September 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

The significance of sinus opacification in intensive care unit (ICU) patients remains uncertain. Our objectives were to determine the baseline incidence and risk factors associated with the development of radiographic sinus abnormalities in the ICU population.

Methods

A retrospective study of head computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging from April 2013 through April 2014 of 612 neurologic ICU patients at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was performed. Images were scored by the Lund‐Mackay system (LMS). Exclusion criteria included prior sinus or skull base surgery, history of sinonasal malignancy, facial fractures, ICU admission less than 3 days, or inadequate imaging.

Results

At the time of admission, 40.7% of patients had a LMS greater than zero (mean 2.2). Worsening sinus opacification occurred in 42.6% of patients (mean highest LMS 4.6) during ICU admission. There was a peak between days 8 and 10, during which 65% of scans exhibited worsening opacification compared to baseline. On multivariate analysis, risk factors associated with increased sinus opacification (higher LMS) included the presence of an endotracheal tube (odds ration [OR] 3.28, P < .001) or nasogastric tube (OR 3.34, P < .001) and increased length of stay (OR 2.50, P < .001). Age greater than 60 was found to be protective for the development of worsening sinus opacification (OR 0.57, P = .007).

Conclusion

Using serial imaging and comparison control groups, this study finds that there is a high baseline incidence of sinus opacification in the ICU population. Prolonged length of stay, younger age, and presence of nasogastric or endotracheal tubes all corresponded to worsening LMS.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:2433–2438, 2016
Canal reconstruction and mastoid obliteration using floating cartilages and musculoperiosteal flaps
Authors: Lee Ho Jun , Chao Janet Ren , Yeon Yeung Kyu , Kumar Vijay , Park Chan Hum , Kim Hyung‐Jong , Lee Jun Ho
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To reduce the mastoid cavity‐associated problems secondary to canal wall down mastoidectomy, we designed a new surgical procedure that includes canal wall reconstruction using free‐floating cartilages and double musculoperiosteal flaps.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐three patients were enrolled in this study. Preoperative and postoperative pure tone audiometry/speech discrimination score and postoperative status (complications and EAC status) were analyzed.

Results

Air conduction thresholds were statistically improved (P = 0.008). The air–bone gap was significantly reduced following surgery (P = 0.001). There were no other major complications in any of the patients. Long‐term follow‐up demonstrated gradual widening of the neo‐EAC in 18 patients (54.5%) but normal contour of the neo‐EAC in the other 13 patients (39.4%). In just one case did the neo‐EAC become extremely widened.

Conclusion

Mastoid obliteration and canal wall reconstruction using free‐floating cartilages and double musculoperiosteal flaps is very useful to achieve optimal surgical view, eliminate the middle ear pathology, and prevent recurrence of cholesteatoma and cavity problem.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:1153–1160, 2017
Role of donor hemodynamic trajectory in determining graft survival in liver transplantation from donation after circulatory death donors
Authors: Firl Daniel J. , Hashimoto Koji , O'Rourke Colin , Diago‐Uso Teresa , Fujiki Masato , Aucejo Federico N. , Quintini Cristiano , Kelly Dympna M. , Miller Charles M. , Fung John J. , Eghtesad Bijan
Published: September 2016

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors show heterogeneous hemodynamic trajectories following withdrawal of life support. Impact of hemodynamics in DCD liver transplant is unclear, and objective measures of graft viability would ease transplant surgeon decision making and inform safe expansion of the donor organ pool. This retrospective study tested whether hemodynamic trajectories were associated with transplant outcomes in DCD liver transplantation (n = 87). Using longitudinal clustering statistical techniques, we phenotyped DCD donors based on hemodynamic trajectory for both mean arterial pressure (MAP) and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) following withdrawal of life support. Donors were categorized into 3 clusters: those who gradually decline after withdrawal of life support (cluster 1), those who maintain stable hemodynamics followed by rapid decline (cluster 2), and those who decline rapidly (cluster 3). Clustering outputs were used to compare characteristics and transplant outcomes. Cox proportional hazards modeling revealed hepatocellular carcinoma (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.53; P = 0.047), cold ischemia time (HR = 1.50 per hour; P = 0.027), and MAP cluster 1 were associated with increased risk of graft loss (HR = 3.13; P = 0.021), but not SpO2 cluster (P = 0.172) or donor warm ischemia time (DWIT; P = 0.154). Despite longer DWIT, MAP and SpO2 clusters 2 showed similar graft survival to MAP and SpO2 clusters 3, respectively. In conclusion, despite heterogeneity in hemodynamic trajectories, DCD donors can be categorized into 3 clinically meaningful subgroups that help predict graft prognosis. Further studies should confirm the utility of liver grafts from cluster 2. Liver Transplantation 22 1469–1481 2016 AASLD.
Modeling gas turbine materials’ hot corrosion degradation in combustion environments from H2‐rich syngas
Authors: Sumner J. , Potter A. , Simms N. J. , Oakey J. E.
Published: September 2016

Components of gas turbines (such as blades, vanes, combustor cans) exposed to combustion environments at high temperature are susceptible to hot corrosion attack. To successfully plan maintenance and to determine whether to operate in novel combustion modes (e.g., in integrated gasification combined cycles that incorporate pre‐combustion carbon capture) predictions of hot corrosion component life must be made. In this paper, hot corrosion datasets relating to two alloys, MarM 509 (a cobalt‐based superalloy), and Rene 80 (a nickel‐based superalloy) form the basis of hot corrosion predictive lifetime models. The model framework is based on the two stages of incubation and propagation, with the transitions from incubation to propagation around the samples being based on Weibull statistics. The impact of a range of temperatures (including 700 and 900 °C), gas compositions (simulating the combustion of natural gas, H2‐rich syngas, or partially cleaned syngas), and deposit chemistries/fluxes have been assessed. Predictions have been made including the expected damage spread for a range of different exposure conditions.
Effect of multipass TIG welding on the corrosion resistance and microstructure of a super duplex stainless steel
Authors: Hosseini V. A. , Hurtig K. , Karlsson L.
Published: September 2016

This is a study of the effect of repetitive TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding passes, melting and remelting the same material volume on microstructure and corrosion resistance of 2507 (EN 1.4410) super duplex stainless steel. One to four weld passes were autogenously (no filler added) applied on a plate using two different arc energies and with pure argon shielding gas. Sensitization testing showed that multipass remelting resulted in significant loss of corrosion resistance of the weld metal, in base material next to the fusion boundary, and in a zone 1 to 4 mm from the fusion boundary. Metallography revealed the main reasons for sensitization to be a ferrite‐rich weld metal and precipitation of nitrides in the weld metal, and adjacent heat affected zone together with sigma phase formation at some distance from the fusion boundary. Corrosion properties cannot be significantly restored by a post weld heat treatment. Using filler metals with higher nickel contents and nitrogen containing shielding gases, are therefore, recommended. Welding with a higher heat input and fewer passes, in some cases, can also decrease the risk of formation of secondary phases and possible corrosion attack.
Stereocontrolled Entanglement‐Directed Self‐Alignment of Poly(lactic acid) Cylindrites
Authors: Xu Huan , Hua Geng , Odelius Karin , Hakkarainen Minna
Published: September 2016

The concept of stereocontrolled entanglements, in which the tunable H‐bonded chiral pairs serve as crosslinks to create topological constraints on the local chain dynamics, is introduced to tailor the crystalline morphology of stereocomplex poly(lactic acid). For the entanglements to be interconnected and activated, poly(d‐lactic acid) with statistical branched architecture is incorporated, enabling the construction of 3D association with linear poly(l‐lactic acid) chains. With thermodynamically graded disentanglement relaxation for the blends, the profound influence of entanglements on the crystalline morphology is revealed during isothermal crystallization. Orderly aligned cylindrites some with an exceptional length of over 500 μm, resembling the structural features of the classical shish‐kebab superstructure, are observed in the blends penetrated with dense entanglement constraints. By contrast, only dendritic spherulites are formed in the highly disentangled blends. The selectively suppressed homo‐crystallization by the entanglements offers insights into the contribution of constraints. This bottom‐up strategy opens up pathways to engender oriented crystals of long‐range order under quiescent conditions, which has potential implications for other chiral polymers.

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Low‐bandwidth space/frequency component separation for quantitative imaging
Authors: Zubkov Mikhail , Stait‐Gardner Timothy , Price William S.
Published: September 2016

Quantitative MRI is often used to analyse multicomponent systems. The analysis requires the contributions from different species to be isolated. Species with distinct chemical shifts can be separated by using a low acquisition bandwidth, which is easy to achieve in common quantitative imaging protocols. The bandwidth reduction leads to separation of NMR contributions from different species in the image space. This new method was implemented and tested on two multicomponent systems containing several spectrally and spatially unresolved components with both distinctly different and similar diffusion coefficients and relaxation times. Separation was achieved with routine MRI diffusion and relaxation measurement pulse sequences in a microimaging environment for water/polyethylene glycol solution and for chloroform/TMS/polyethylene glycol solution. Conventional monoexponential fitting was used to determine diffusion coefficients and relaxation times from the spectrally separated data, whereas biexponential or triexponential fitting was required in the unseparated reference experiments. In the two‐component sample, the variation in the determined fast diffusing components was on the same order of magnitude for all experiments, while the variation in the slow diffusing polyethylene glycol was larger when no separation was present. The separation technique provided lower variability for all the determined diffusion coefficients and relaxation times in the three‐component sample. The low‐bandwidth separation method can provide separation of multicomponent systems based on the chemical shift difference between the species. The accuracy of the technique is comparable with the commonly used methods for bicomponent system analysis and surpasses those when there are more than two components in the sample. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Angiopoietin‐2, its soluble receptor Tie‐2, and metabolic syndrome components in a population‐based sample
Authors: Lorbeer Roberto , Baumeister Sebastian E. , Dörr Marcus , Nauck Matthias , Grotevendt Anne , Schlesinger Sabrina , Teumer Alexander , Völzke Henry , Grabe Hans‐Jörgen , Wallaschofski Henri , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Lieb Wolfgang
Published: September 2016

Objective

Since angiopoietin‐2 (Ang‐2) levels strongly correlate with cardiovascular mortality and subclinical cardiovascular disease, it was hypothesized that levels of Ang‐2 and its soluble receptor (sTie‐2) were associated with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and individual MetS components.

Methods

Within the population‐based Study of Health in Pomerania, two sets of analyses were performed. First, Ang‐2 and sTie‐2 were related to the prevalence of MetS and its components cross‐sectionally (n = 3,205). Second, the association between baseline Ang‐2 and sTie‐2 and incident MetS or longitudinal changes in its components in 1,295 individuals was investigated.

Results

High Ang‐2 levels (90th percentile), compared with low Ang‐2 levels (10th percentile), were positively associated with MetS (OR: 1.78) and with the following MetS criteria: increased triglycerides, lower HDL cholesterol, and higher non‐fasting glucose. Furthermore, high sTie‐2 levels (90th percentile), compared with low levels (10th percentile), were positively related to MetS (OR: 1.58) and most of its components. However, Ang‐2 and sTie‐2 levels were not associated with incident MetS or longitudinal change in components of MetS.

Conclusions

Ang‐2 and sTie‐2 levels were cross‐sectionally associated with MetS and several of its components. However, Ang‐2 and sTie‐2 levels were not associated with incident MetS or changes in individual MetS components during follow‐up.
Investigation of polyethylene‐grafted‐maleic anhydride presence as a compatibilizer on various properties of nanocomposite films based on polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol/ nanoclay
Authors: Rahnama Mohammadreza , Oromiehie Abdulrasoul , Ahmadi Shervin , Ghasemi Ismaeil
Published: September 2016

High oxygen barrier films were prepared based on low‐density polyethylene (LDPE)/ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH)/ nanoclay and polyethylene‐grafted‐maleic anhydride (LDPE‐g‐MA) as a compatibilizer. Box–Behnken statistical experiment design methodology was employed to study the effects of nanoclay, LDPE‐g‐MA, and EVOH presence and their contents on various properties of the final films. The R2 parameter varied between 0.89 and 0.99 for all the obtained responses. The morphology of the samples was evaluated. Results of oxygen transfer rate (OTR) test indicated that the addition of EVOH up to 30 wt% to neat LDPE can decrease oxygen permeability significantly. The addition of nanoclay also decreased the permeability of resulting films but, LDPE‐g‐MA reduced the permeability of the films only at an optimal content. Elastic modulus was increased with the addition of nanoclay, EVOH, and LDPE‐g‐MA to the matrix. An increase in EVOH content in the samples improved the tensile strength. Effect of nanoclay on tensile strength was highly dependent on the presence of a compatibilizer. The addition of compatibilizer to the samples and increasing its content enhanced the tensile strength of the specimens. Incorporation of nanoclay, EVOH, and LDPE‐g‐MA to the LDPE matrix and increasing the amount of these components in the samples led to higher storage modulus, zero shear rate viscosity, and shear thinning exponent, but, lowered the terminal slope and the frequency of intersection point of storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″). The only exception was that EVOH increment resulted in a lower shear thinning exponent. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐efficiency Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4solar cells fabricated through a low‐cost solution process and a two‐step heat treatment
Authors: Wu Shih‐Hsiung , Chang Chia‐Wen , Chen Hui‐Ju , Shih Chuan‐Feng , Wang Yu‐Yun , Li Chou‐Cheng , Chan Sheng‐Wen
Published: September 2016

A method for fabricating high‐efficiency Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4(CZTSSe) solar cells is presented, and it is based on a non‐explosive, low‐cost, and simple solution process followed by a two‐step heat treatment. 2‐Methoxyethanol was used as a solvent, and Cu, Zn, Sn, chloride salts, and thiourea were used as solutes. A CZTSSe absorber was prepared by sulfurising and then selenising an as‐coated Cu2ZnSnS4(CZTS) film. Sulfurisation in a sulfur vapour filled furnace for a long time (2 h) enhanced the crystallisation of the as‐coated CZTS film and improved the stability of the CZTS precursor, and selenisation promoted further grain growth to yield a void‐free CZTSSe film. Segregation of Cu and S at the grain boundaries, the absence of a fine‐grain bottom layer, and the large grain size of the CZTSSe absorber were the main factors that enhanced the grain‐to‐grain transport of carriers and consequently the short‐circuit current (Jsc) and efficiency. The efficiency of the CZTS solar cell was 5.0%, which increased to 10.1% after selenisation. For the 10.1% CZTSSe solar cell, the external quantum efficiency was approximately 80%, the open‐circuit voltage was 450 mV, the short‐circuit current was 36.5 mA/cm2, and the fill factor was 61.9%. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis of total serum glycome in human and mouse
Authors: Yoshida Yasunobu , Furukawa Jun‐ichi , Naito Shoichi , Higashino Kenichi , Numata Yoshito , Shinohara Yasuro
Published: September 2016

Model mice are frequently used in drug discovery research. Knowledge of similarities and differences between the mouse and human glycomes is critical when model mice are used for the discovery of glycan‐related biomarkers and targets for therapeutic intervention. Since few comparative glycomic studies between human and mouse have been conducted, we performed a comprehensive comparison of the major classes of glycans in human and mouse sera using mass spectrometric and liquid chromatographic analyses. Up to 131 serum glycans, including N‐glycans, free oligosaccharides (fOSs), glycosaminoglycans, O‐glycans, and glycosphingolipid (GSL)‐glycans, were quantified. In both serum samples, N‐glycans were the most abundant in the total serum glycome, while fOSs were the least abundant. As expected, the diversity of sialic acid (i.e. Neu5Ac vs. Neu5Gc) was the major species difference between human and mouse in terms of N‐ and O‐glycosylation, while GSL‐glycomic profiles were completely different, even when the sialic acid diversity was taken into consideration. Furthermore, total serum glycomics of STAM mouse were unveiled as an initial step to identify novel biomarkers of liver diseases, with which we could identify several glycans with expression significantly increased or decreased expression.
Influence of the halogen and organometallic function in a KCTP (Co)polymerization
Authors: Hardeman Tine , De Becker Jasmine , Koeckelberghs Guy
Published: September 2016

The effect of changing the halogen and the organometallic function in a Kumada Catalyst Transfer Polycondensation (KCTP) of poly(3‐alkylthiophene)s (P3AT) is investigated. On the one hand, the bromine substituent is replaced with chlorine in the commonly used 2‐bromo‐5‐chloromagnesio‐3‐hexylthiophene. The effect on the homopolymerization is clear, since the stickiness decreases remarkably, but copolymerizations are hardly affected when a chlorinated monomer is used. Second, the option of changing the organometallic function is considered. Because also organozinc compounds provide a controlled P3AT polymerization with Ni(dppp)Cl2, but are less reactive than organomagnesium compounds, the effect of using zinc in one monomer during a copolymerization is investigated. However, it is found that the organometallic functions exchange during mixing of the monomers. Consequently, no effect is observed during copolymerizations. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 3701–3706
Differential protein abundance in promastigotes of nitric oxide‐sensitive and resistant Leishmania chagasi strains
Authors: Alcolea Pedro J. , Tuñón Gabriel I. L. , Alonso Ana , García‐Tabares Francisco , Ciordia Sergio , Mena María C. , Campos Roseane N. S. , Almeida Roque P. , Larraga Vicente
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Leishmania chagasi is the causative agent of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil. Domestic and stray dogs are the main reservoirs. The life cycle of the parasite involves two stages. Promastigotes are extracellular and develop within the sand fly gut. Amastigotes survive inside the harsh environment of the phagolysosome of mammalian host phagocytes, which display the nitric oxide defense mechanism. Surprisingly, we were able to isolate promastigotes that are also resistant to NO. This finding may be explained by the preadaptative hypothesis. An insight into the proteome of NO‐sensitive and resistant promastigotes is presented herein.

Experimental design

Total protein extracts were prepared from promastigote cultures of an NO‐sensitive and a resistant strain at early‐logarithmic, mid‐logarithmic and stationary phase. A population enriched in metacyclic promastigotes was also isolated by Percoll gradient centrifugation. In vitro infectivity of both strains was compared. Differential protein abundance was analyzed by 2DE‐MALDI‐TOF/TOF. The most striking results were tested at the mRNA level by qRT‐PCR. Three biological replicates were performed in all cases.

Results

NO‐resistant L. chagasi promastigotes are more infective than NO‐sensitive ones. Among the differentially abundant spots, 40 proteins could be successfully identified in the sensitive strain and 38 in resistant promastigotes.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

The increase of G6PD and the decrease of ARG and GPX transcripts and proteins contribute to NO resistance in L. chagasi promastigotes. These proteins may be studied as potential drug targets and/or vaccine candidates in the future.
Solution‐processed high‐k oxide dielectric via deep ultraviolet and rapid thermal annealing for high‐performance MoS2 FETs
Authors: Yoo Geonwook , Choi Sol Lea , Yoo Byungwook , Oh Min Suk
Published: September 2016

So far most of MoS2‐based devices have been demonstrated on oxide gate dielectrics (e.g., SiO2, Al2O3, HfO2, etc) deposited by vacuum process or on polymer gate dielectrics. In this study, we report electrical characteristics of multilayer MoS2 transistors fabricated on solution‐processed high‐k AlOx gate dielectric via deep ultraviolet (DUV) activation in combination with rapid thermal annealing process at 250 °C. The solution‐processed AlOx sol–gel film exhibited low leakage current of about 1.49 μA cm−2 at 1 MV cm−1 and a relative dielectric constant (k) of ∼6.1 at 1 kHz. The fabricated MoS2‐FETs exhibit median field‐effect mobility of ∼23.3 cm2 V−1s−1, threshold voltage of ∼ 0.79 V, subthreshold slope of ∼0.30 V dec−1, and on/off current ratio of ∼107. The electrical performance can be further improved by optimizing the AlOx sol–gel film as well as the device structure, and the result implies that the solution‐processed high‐k AlOx is promising for TMDC–based device applications.
Spatially arranged chains of Ge quantum dots grown on Si substrate prepatterned by ion‐beam‐assisted nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Dvurechenskii Anatoly , Smagina Zhanna , Novikov Pavel , Zinovyev Vladimir , Kuchinskaya Polina , Rudin Sergey , Nenashev Alexey
Published: September 2016

Joint experimental and theoretical study of Ge nanoislands growth on groove‐patterned Si(001) substrate prepared by ion‐beam‐assisted nanoimprint lithography is carried out. Prepatterning procedure includes ion irradiation of Si substrate through imprinted resist mask with linear mounds and subsequent multistep oxidation/etching of irradiated Si domains. It is shown that the temperature of subsequent heteroepitaxy on the groovepatterned substrate affects the location of Ge nanoislands. The effect is attributed to additional surface tensile strain formed inside grooves by residual irradiationinduced defects. The interplay of strain and surface curvature makes the critical size of 3D nanoisland larger at the concave regions in grooves than between them. At lower temperatures this results in nanoisland nucleation at the top of mounds. At higher temperatures due to the intensive migration of Ge inside grooves the formation of large nanoislands in grooves occurs. The effect of temperature on the location and size of nanoislands is described by Monte Carlo simulations. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The effect of holding time on the size distribution of β‐Si3N4 particles and nucleation undercooling in multicrystalline silicon
Authors: Undheim Espen , Ekstrøm Kai Erik , Arnberg Lars , Holmestad Randi , Di Sabatino Marisa
Published: September 2016

The nucleation mechanism for directional solidification of multicrystalline silicon (mc‐Si) in silicon nitride (Si3N4) coated crucibles has been investigated. A combination of thermal and particle size analysis was used to show that the nucleation undercooling was inversely proportional to the particles size. The particle size was increased by keeping the silicon melted for increasing time periods and the growing particles were identified as β‐Si3N4. The results from the particle analysis were verified by topographical studies using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These results indicate that β‐Si3N4 particles are the dominant nucleation substrates for mc‐Si in Si3N4 coated crucibles. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nanodiamonds and gold nanoparticles: a promising couple for CRM‐free photonics
Authors: Reina Giacomo , Orlanducci Silvia , Tamburri Emanuela , Matassa Roberto , Rossi Marco , Terranova Maria Letizia
Published: September 2016

The design and assembling of hybrid nanomaterials formed by the controlled aggregation of nanodiamonds (DND) and gold nanoparticles (AuNP) are presently a focus of the scientific community. The AuNP@DND systems are characterized by very attractive properties and by great potentialities for applications in optics and photonics. We present a review of some interesting AuNP@DND systems produced in our labs using synthetic routes that enable to control the mutual organization and the crystalline features of the two components. The functional tests suggest that the cooperative interaction between gold and nanodiamond produce materials that represents an innovative concept for efficient, stable and biocompatible light‐related applications. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Outcoupling efficiency optimization of phosphorescent and fluorescent based hybrid red, green and blue emitting OLED devices
Authors: Vasilopoulou M. , Georgiadou D. G. , Davazoglou D. , Savaidis S. P. , Stathopoulos N. A.
Published: September 2016

The outcoupling efficiency of a hybrid OLED device with a hole‐injection layer formed by either an organic semiconducting material, namely PEDOT:PSS, or an under‐stoichiometric molybdenum oxide is examined. Because the device is considered for the three primary colour emissions, the active layer is composed of a wide band‐gap blue emitting host polymer doped with either phosphorescent or fluorescent guest emitters. Critical parameters, such as the emission zone profile for the doped active layer with either the organic hole‐injection layer or the inorganic metal oxide, are studied. Contour charts have been derived providing the areas of maximum outcoupling efficiency with the corresponding thickness pairs of the active layer and the hole‐injection layer.
Security in automotive telematics: a survey of threats and risk mitigation strategies to counter the existing and emerging attack vectors
Authors: Oyler Alex , Saiedian Hossein
Published: September 2016

This manuscript surveys a variety of topics related to the security of connected vehicles and their associated services, often referred to as telematics. Current challenges as well as emerging and future security risks are discussed. A number of specific technologies and implementations are discussed, such as Next Generation Telematics Patterns, KeeLoq, vehicular ad hoc networks, and controller area network. Principles and practices are outlined to counter or minimize risks associated with the existing and potential attack vectors as well as reducing risks both on the internal vehicle network and the telematics service delivery platforms. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A secure payment system for multimedia on demand on mobile VANET clouds
Authors: Chen Chin‐Ling , Lin Yu‐Fan , Castiglione Aniello , Palmieri Francesco
Published: September 2016

The more recent advances in network communication and cloud computing technologies have the potential of significantly improving traveling experience by providing value‐added services, such as multimedia on demand (MoD), in vehicular ad hoc networks, where the involved vehicles are provided with enough communication, storage, and computing capabilities. In this scenario, despite many consolidated mobile cloud solutions and pay‐per‐view systems have been developed and widely deployed in public transportation, the security and privacy of mobile users, mainly concerning the association between users' identities and requested multimedia contents, still presents several open challenges. Mainly, providing pay‐per‐view services in vehicular clouds while protecting the passenger's anonymity and simultaneously ensuring the robustness of the payment system has become an important issue.Accordingly, we present a novel smart card‐based MoD payment solution, to be used in mobile cloud‐empowered public transportation systems, that not only guarantees the passenger's anonymity but also uses a personal trusted device to protect the passenger's sensitive information so that he can enjoy the multimedia contents during the long hours of travel. In the future, such scheme can become common practice on MoD‐related equipment in vehicular ad hoc networks, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of public transport companies. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.