bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The First Suspension Polymerization for Preparing Optically Active Microparticles Purely Constructed from Chirally Helical Substituted Polyacetylenes
Authors: Zhang Haiyang , Song Jiexuan , Deng Jianping
Published: April 2014

Suspension polymerization has been extensively utilized with vinyl monomers to prepare vinyl‐polymer microparticles (μm size; denoted MPs) with a variety of morphologies and significant applications. However, suspension polymerization of acetylenic monomers has remained a big challenge. This communication reports the first methodology for performing suspension polymerizations of acetylenic monomers, from which optically active microparticles (OAMPs) are constructed exclusively from helical substituted polyacetylenes. Chiral monomer (M1) and achiral monomer (M2) separately underwent suspension polymerization at room temperature in aqueous media in the presence of Rh‐based catalyst with poly(vinyl alcohol) as a stabilizer, providing MPs (200∼700 mm) in high yield (>80%). The obtained OAMPs, both crosslinked and non‐crosslinked, were characterized by SEM, polarimetry, circular dichroism, and UV‐vis spectroscopy. The chiral substituted polyacetylene chains constituting the MPs were found to adopt helices of predominantly one‐handed screw sense, affording the particles with pronounced optical activity. The MPs derived from achiral M2 exhibited optical inactivity. The present study opens up new opportunities for preparing novel (non‐)crosslinked microparticles derived from acetylenic monomers.

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Cyclodextrin‐Based Supramolecular Assemblies and Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
Authors: Tan Shereen , Ladewig Katharina , Fu Qiang , Blencowe Anton , Qiao Greg G.
Published: April 2014

The application of cyclodextrin (CD)‐based host–guest interactions towards the fabrication of functional supramolecular assemblies and hydrogels is of particular interest in the field of biomedicine. However, as of late they have found new applications as advanced functional materials (e.g., actuators and self‐healing materials), which have renewed interest across a wide range of fields. Advanced supramolecular materials synthesized using this noncovalent interaction, exhibit specificity and reversibility, which can be used to impart reversible cross‐linking, specific binding sites, and functionality. In this review, various functional CD‐based supramolecular assemblies and hydrogels will be outlined with the focus on recent advances. In addition, an outlook will be provided on the direction of this rapidly developing field.

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Real‐time correction of rigid body motion‐induced phase errors for diffusion‐weighted steady‐state free precession imaging
Authors: O'Halloran Rafael , Aksoy Murat , Aboussouan Eric , Peterson Eric , Van Anh , Bammer Roland
Published: April 2014

Purpose

Diffusion contrast in diffusion‐weighted steady‐state free precession magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is generated through the constructive addition of signal from many coherence pathways. Motion‐induced phase causes destructive interference which results in loss of signal magnitude and diffusion contrast. In this work, a three‐dimensional (3D) navigator‐based real‐time correction of the rigid body motion‐induced phase errors is developed for diffusion‐weighted steady‐state free precession MRI.

Methods

The efficacy of the real‐time prospective correction method in preserving phase coherence of the steady state is tested in 3D phantom experiments and 3D scans of healthy human subjects.

Results

In nearly all experiments, the signal magnitude in images obtained with proposed prospective correction was higher than the signal magnitude in images obtained with no correction. In the human subjects, the mean magnitude signal in the data was up to 30% higher with prospective motion correction than without. Prospective correction never resulted in a decrease in mean signal magnitude in either the data or in the images.

Conclusions

The proposed prospective motion correction method is shown to preserve the phase coherence of the steady state in diffusion‐weighted steady‐state free precession MRI, thus mitigating signal magnitude losses that would confound the desired diffusion contrast. Magn Reson Med 73:565–576, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Constrained image‐based B0 shimming accounting for “local minimum traps” in the optimization and field inhomogeneities outside the region of interest
Authors: Fillmer Ariane , Kirchner Thomas , Cameron Donnie , Henning Anke
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To improve B0 shimming for applications in high‐ and ultrahigh‐field magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Methods

An existing image‐based constrained B0 shimming algorithm was enhanced using two techniques: (1) A region of less interest was introduced to control B0 field inhomogeneities in the vicinity of the region of interest; (2) multiple sets of starting values were used for the fitting routine, to avoid “getting trapped” in a local minimum of the optimization function. The influence of constraints during the fitting procedure, due to hardware limitations, on the B0 shim result was investigated. The performance of this algorithm was compared to other B0 shim algorithms for typical shim problems in head and body applications at 3T and 7T.

Results

Utilization of a weighted region of less interest lead to a significant gain in B0 homogeneity adjacent to the region of interest. The loss of B0 quality due to the enlarged total shim volume within the region of interest remained minimal, allowing for improved artifact reduction in magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging. Multiple sets of starting values and consideration of shim field constraints led to an additional gain in B0 shim quality.

Conclusion

The proposed algorithm allows for more flexible control of B0 inhomogeneities and, hence, enables gains in image and spectral quality for MR applications. Magn Reson Med 73:1370–1380, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in sensory function and force production in adults with type II diabetes
Authors: Ochoa Nereyda , Gorniak Stacey L.
Published: April 2014

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship among sensory function, disease severity, and upper extremity force production in adults with type II diabetes (T2D) as compared with healthy age‐ and gender‐matched controls. Methods: Ten adults with T2D and 10 healthy age‐ and gender‐matched control subjects underwent a battery of sensory and motor function evaluations. Data on disease severity and duration were also collected. Results: The T2D group exhibited sensory deficits and altered force production as compared with healthy controls. Sensory function correlated with disease severity, as did signal predictability of kinetic output during submaximal force production tasks. Maximal force production tasks were associated with altered output in T2D, but these data did not correlate with disease severity or sensory dysfunction. Conclusions: Some, not all, motor performance deficits in T2D are associated with sensory dysfunction. Mechanisms responsible for these changes in adult‐onset T2D are described. Muscle Nerve 50: 984–990, 2014
Behavior of sand–rubber particle mixtures: experimental observations and numerical simulations
Authors: Lee Changho , Shin Hosung , Lee Jong‐Sub
Published: April 2014

A series of laboratory experiments and numerical simulations are conducted to explore the characteristics of mixtures composed of sand and rubber particles of the same median diameter. The mixtures are prepared with different volumetric sand fractions (sf = Vsand/Vtotal). The experiment focuses on assessing the strain level on the characteristics of the mixture with the volume fraction of each component. Numerical simulations using the discrete element method are performed to obtain insight into the microscale behavior and internal mechanism of the mixtures. The experimental results show that the behavior of the mixtures is dependent on the relative sand and rubber particles composition with variation in the strain levels. The numerical simulation reveals the effect of the soft rubber particle inclusion in the mixture on the micromechanical parameters. In low sand fraction mixtures, a high shear stress along the contact is mobilized, and the stress state is driven to a more anisotropic condition because of the relatively high particle friction angle of the rubber. The rubber particles play different roles with the strain level in the mixture, including increasing the coordination number and controlling plasticity of the mixture in a small strain, preventing buckling of the force chain in an intermediate strain, and leading to contractive behavior in a large strain. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating online recognition for blood donor retention: an experiential donor value approach
Authors: Chell Kathleen , Mortimer Gary
Published: April 2014

Recognising that charitable behaviour can be motivated by public recognition and emotional satisfaction, not‐for‐profit organisations have developed strategies that leverage self‐interest over altruism by facilitating individuals to donate conspicuously. Initially developed as novel marketing programmes to increase donation income, such conspicuous tokens of recognition are being recognised as important value propositions to nurture donor relationships. Despite this, there is little empirical evidence that identifies when donations can be increased through conspicuous recognition. Furthermore, social media's growing popularity for self‐expression, as well as the increasing use of technology in donor relationship management strategies, makes an examination of virtual conspicuous tokens of recognition in relation to what value donors seek particularly insightful. Therefore, this research examined the impact of experiential donor value and virtual conspicuous tokens of recognition on blood donor intentions. Using online survey data from 186 Australian blood donors, results show that in fact emotional value is a stronger predictor of intentions to donate blood than altruistic value, whereas social value is the strongest predictor of intentions if provided with recognition. Clear linkages between dimensions of donor value (altruistic, emotional and social) and conspicuous donation behaviour (CDB) were identified. The findings provide valuable insights into the use of conspicuous donation tokens of recognition on social media and contribute to our understanding into the under‐researched areas of donor value and CDB.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Support for laws to prohibit weight discrimination in the united states: Public attitudes from 2011 to 2013
Authors: Suh Young , Puhl Rebecca , Liu Sai , Fleming Milici Frances
Published: April 2014

Objective

Public attitudes about three proposed laws prohibiting weight discrimination in the US, from 2011 to 2013 were examined.

Methods

An online survey using a diverse national sample of US adults to assess their level of support for three specific laws against weight discrimination was conducted. Data collection occurred between June and July in 2011 (n = 1,098), 2012 (n = 1,202), and 2013 (n = 1,202).

Results

Between 2011 and 2013, support for laws prohibiting weight discrimination remained consistent, and in some cases became increasingly supportive, primarily in 2012‐2013. At least 75% of participants consistently favored laws prohibiting weight discrimination in the workplace. Individuals became increasingly supportive of extending disability protections for individuals with obesity (62% in 2011 to 69% in 2013) and adding body weight as a protected class in Civil Rights statutes (70% in 2011 to 76% in 2013). Analyses highlight specific predictors of support (gender, race, education, and political affiliation).

Conclusions

There is strong, consistent support for policies prohibiting weight discrimination. These findings have important implications for developing specific antidiscrimination legislation to protect Americans with obesity and improve their quality of life.
Obstetric and metabolic implications of excessive gestational weight gain in pregnancy
Authors: Walsh Jennifer M. , McGowan Ciara A. , Mahony Rhona M. , Foley Michael E. , McAuliffe Fionnuala M.
Published: April 2014

Objective

To compare maternal characteristics, obstetric outcomes and insulin resistance in a cohort of women subdivided into those who did and those who did not exceed the Institute of Medicine (IOM) gestational weight gain guidelines.

Methods

This is a prospective study of 621 women without diabetes. Concentrations of glucose, insulin and leptin were measured in early pregnancy and at 28 weeks. Ultrasound at 34 weeks assessed fetal anthropometry including abdominal wall width (AAW). At delivery birthweight was recorded and fetal glucose, C‐peptide and leptin measured in cord blood. Insulin resistance was calculated using the HOMA equation. Outcomes in those who did and did not exceed IOM guidelines were compared.

Results

Overall, 267 women (43%) exceeded IOM guidelines and 354 (57%) did not. On 34‐week ultrasound women with excessive weight gain had higher fetal weights (2681 ± 356 g vs. 2574 ± 331, P = 0.001) and fetal adiposity (AAW) (5.29 ± 1.3 vs. 4.8 ± 1.2, P = 0.001). Infant birthweight and birthweight centiles were also higher in those who exceeded the guidelines. There was no difference between the two groups in maternal insulin resistance in early pregnancy, but by 28 weeks those with excessive weight gain had higher maternal HOMA indices and higher maternal leptin concentrations.

Conclusion

Excessive maternal gestational weight gain has significant implications for infant growth and adiposity, with potential implications for later adult health.
Enhanced hydration stability of Bombyx mori silk fibroin/PEG 600 composite scaffolds for tissue engineering
Authors: Selmin Francesca , Gennari Chiara G. M. , Minghetti Paola , Marotta Laura A. , Viviani Barbara , Vagdama Pankaj , Montanari Luisa , Cilurzo Francesco
Published: April 2014

Silk fibroin scaffolds obtained via regeneration by Ajisawa's reagent (CaCl2/H2O/EtOH, mole ratio 1:8:2) and freeze‐drying followed by steam sterilization resulted unstable when incubated in physiological medium over 1‐month period since the oxygen diffusivity and mechanical resistance to compression significantly decreased. Blending of regenerated silk fibroin with PEG 600 lead to a novel scaffold with an improved water stability. Multi‐parameter characterization has revealed that scaffolds made by composite material were stable in physiological media over at least 1 month of incubation. Interestingly, the presence of PEG has a notable impact on wettability and protein adsorption. This increase in hydrophilicity could be beneficial for initial cell adhesion and survival as well as for the adsorptive loading of growth factors. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“Not for Human Consumption”: A Review of Emerging Designer Drugs
Authors: Musselman Megan E. , Hampton Jeremy P.
Published: April 2014

Synthetic, or “designer” drugs, are created by manipulating the chemical structures of other psychoactive drugs so that the resulting product is structurally similar but not identical to illegal psychoactive drugs. Originally developed in the 1960s as a way to evade existing drug laws, the use of designer drugs has increased dramatically over the past few years. These drugs are deceptively packaged as “research chemicals,” “incense,” “bath salts,” or “plant food,” among other names, with labels that may contain warnings such as “not for human consumption” or “not for sale to minors.” The clinical effects of most new designer drugs can be described as either hallucinogenic, stimulant, or opioid‐like. They may also have a combination of these effects due to designer side‐chain substitutions. The easy accessibility and rapid emergence of new designer drugs have created challenges for health care providers when treating patients presenting with acute toxicity from these substances, many of which can produce significant and/or life‐threatening adverse effects. Moreover, the health care provider has no way to verify the contents and/or potency of the agent ingested because it can vary between packages and distributors. Therefore, a thorough knowledge of the available designer drugs, common signs and symptoms of toxicity associated with these agents, and potential effective treatment modalities are essential to appropriately manage these patients.
Effects of introducing MEWS on nursing staff in mental health inpatient settings
Authors: Shaddel Farshad , Khosla Vivek , Banerjee Subimal
Published: April 2014

The Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS) is now commonly used in the assessment of physically unwell patients in non‐acute hospital wards. The effect of the introduction of MEWS on the confidence of inpatient psychiatric nurses in identifying the severity of a physically deteriorating patient, and taking appropriate clinical action, has not been reported previously. The authors undertook a cross sectional survey looking at the level of confidence of qualified mental health nurses, and their ability to make correct clinical decisions, before and after introduction of the MEWS tool. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Post‐ictal psychosis in a patient with a history of nocturnal epilepsy
Authors: Datta Aarti , Oladinni Olakunle
Published: April 2014

Psychiatric symptoms can occur following a seizure (post‐ictal) in patients with epilepsy. Here, Drs Datta and Oladinni describe the case of a man with a history of nocturnal epilepsy, who developed psychotic symptoms following two successive seizures. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Dynamic control of volume phase transitions of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) based microgels in water using hydrazide‐aldehyde chemistry
Authors: Chen Yunhua , Ballard Nicholas , Coleman Oliver D. , Hands‐Portman Ian J. , Bon Stefan A. F.
Published: April 2014

We demonstrate that the volume phase transition temperature (VPTT) of copolymer microgel particles made from N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) and methacryloyl hydrazide (MH) can be tailored in a reversible manner upon the reaction of the hydrazide functional groups with aldehydes. The microgels were synthesized by precipitation polymerization in water. Due to the water‐soluble nature of the MH monomer, the VPTT at which the microgel particles contract shifts to higher values by increasing the incorporated amounts of methacryloyl hydrazide from 0 to 5.0 mol %. The VPTT of the copolymer microgel dispersions in water can be fine‐tuned upon addition of hydrophobic/hydrophilic aldehydes, which react with the hydrazide moiety to produce the hydrazone analogue. This hydrazone formation is reversible, which allows for flexible, dynamic control of the thermo‐responsive behavior of the microgels. The ability to “switch” the VPTT was demonstrated by exposing hydrophilic streptomycin sulfate salt incubated microgel particles to an excess of a hydrophobic aldehyde, that is benzaldehyde. The temperature at which these microgels contracted in size upon heating was markedly lowered in these aldehyde exchange experiments. Transformation into benzaldehyde hydrazone derivatives led to assembly of the microgel particles into small colloidal clusters at elevated temperatures. This control of supracolloidal cluster formation was also demonstrated with polystyrene particles which had a hydrazide functionalised microgel shell. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1745–1754
Death by suicide and other externally caused injuries following a cancer diagnosis: the Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study
Authors: Yamauchi Takashi , Inagaki Masatoshi , Yonemoto Naohiro , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Akechi Tatsuo , Iso Hiroyasu , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   on behalf of the JPHC Study Group
Published: April 2014

Objective

There have been very few population‐based prospective studies that have investigated the risks of deaths by suicide and other externally caused injuries (ECIs) among cancer patients in an Asian population. This study investigated whether the risk of death by both suicide and ECIs increases during the first year following the initial diagnosis of cancer.

Methods

Data were analyzed from a population‐based cohort of Japanese residents between 1990 and 2010, collected during the Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study. Poisson regression models were used to calculate adjusted risk ratios (RRs) for both suicide and ECI deaths. To adjust for unmeasured confounding factors, case‐crossover analyses were conducted for all patients with cancer who died by suicide and ECIs.

Results

A population‐based cohort of 102,843 Japanese residents was established. During the follow‐up period, there were 34 suicides and 48 ECI deaths among patients with cancer, as compared with 527 suicides and 707 ECI deaths among those who did not have cancer. Analyses revealed that those who were newly diagnosed with cancer were at a greatly increased risk of death by suicide and ECIs within the first year after their diagnosis (suicide RR = 23.9, 95% CI: 13.8–41.6; ECI RR = 18.8, 95% CI: 11.4–31.0). Furthermore, the case‐crossover analyses generally confirmed the results of the Poisson regressions.

Conclusions

The risks of suicide and ECI deaths within the first year after a cancer diagnosis were higher than those among cancer‐free populations. A diagnosis of cancer is a critical experience that may increase the risk of fatal outcomes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Torc1/Torc2 inhibitor, Palomid 529, enhances radiation response modulating CRM1‐mediated survivin function and delaying DNA repair in prostate cancer models
Authors: Gravina Giovanni Luca , Marampon Francesco , Sherris David , Vittorini Francesca , Cesare Ernesto Di , Tombolini Vincenzo , Lenzi Andrea , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Festuccia Claudio
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

P529, a Torc1/Torc2 inhibitor, has demonstrated its potential as a radiosensitizer. However the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon still need to be elucidated. Aim of this study is to dissect molecular mechanisms regulating the radiosensitizing properties of P529 in a wide panel of prostate cancer models.

METHODS

Six tumor cell lines and xenograft models were used for in vitro and in vivo studies. Clonogenic survival, apoptotic, autophagic, and senescence assays were used to examine the effects of ionizing radiation (IR) alone and in combination with P529. CRM1, survivin, GSK‐3β, and DNA‐DSBs expression and modulation, upon P529 and RT, were monitored by western blot. In vivo treatment response upon P529, irradiation or combination of P529 with IR was monitored by tumor volume, time to progression (TTP), and immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

P529 treatment induced significantly more apoptosis and DNA double‐strand break (DSB) when combined with radiotherapy resulting in cellular radiosensitization and growth delay of irradiated tumor xenografts. Upon P529 treatment Rad51, DNA‐PKcs, and Ku70 protein expression was downregulated, indicating delayed DNA double‐strand damage repair. The radiosensitizing properties of P529 were partially linked to GSK‐3β, cyclin‐D1, and c‐myc modulation with associated inhibition of CRM1‐mediated nuclear export of survivin. Importantly, autophagy and tumor senescence were involved in the enhanced P529 radioresponse.

CONCLUSIONS

Impaired DNA double‐strand damage repair, inhibition of CRM1‐mediated nuclear export of survivin, modulation of cyclin‐D1 and c‐myc with associated pro‐apoptotic and autophagic and senescent events explain the radiosensitizing properties of P529 in preclinical models of prostate cancer. Prostate 74:852–868, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anthropometric Geography Applied to the Analysis of Socio‐economic Disparities: Cohort Trends and Spatial Patterns of Height and Robustness in 20th‐Century Spain
Authors: Camara Antonio D. , Garcia‐Roman Joan
Published: April 2014

Anthropometrics have been widely used to study the influence of environmental factors on health and nutritional status. In contrast, anthropometric geography has not often been employed to approximate the dynamics of spatial disparities associated with socio‐economic and demographic changes. Spain exhibited intense disparity and change during the middle decades of the 20th century, with the result that the life courses of the corresponding cohorts were associated with diverse environmental conditions. This was also true of the Spanish territories.

This paper presents insights concerning the relationship between socio‐economic changes and living conditions by combining the analysis of cohort trends and the anthropometric cartography of height and physical build. This analysis is conducted for Spanish male cohorts born in 1934–1973 who were recorded in the Spanish military statistics. This information is interpreted in light of region‐level data on gross domestic product and infant mortality.

Our results show an anthropometric convergence across regions that, nevertheless, did not substantially modify the spatial patterns of robustness, featuring primarily robust north‐eastern regions and weak central‐southern regions. These patterns persisted until the 1990s (cohorts born during the 1970s). For the most part, anthropometric disparities were associated with socio‐economic disparities, although the former lessened over time to a greater extent than the latter. Interestingly, the various anthropometric indicators utilised here do not point to the same conclusions. There have been some discrepancies found between height and robustness patterns that moderate the statements from the analysis of cohort height alone regarding the level and evolution of living conditions across Spanish regions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical prediction of the spin glass behavior in the low‐temperature phase of Ni2Mn1.36In0.64 Heusler alloy
Authors: Sokolovskiy Vladimir , Buchelnikov Vasiliy , Entel Peter
Published: April 2014

The magnetization behavior in the Ni2Mn1.36In0.64 Heusler compound has been investigated using the 3‐6 states Potts Hamiltonian with real unit cell and magnetic exchange couplings calculated from first principles. The random quenched exchange couplings between magnetic atoms located at different coordination shells have been considered. It is found that the spin‐glass behavior is occurred in low‐temperature range when the long‐range magnetic interactions have been account in the third and more coordination shells. The critical temperature of first magnetic transition from a frustrated spin‐glass‐like phase to ordered ferromagnetic one at heating can be predicted by the Monte Carlo simulations using derived exchange constants. This transition has accompanied with a drop of magnetization. The second magnetic transition from ferromagnetic phase to paramagnetic one has appeared with further increasing of temperature. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New magnetocaloric material based on GdNiH3.2 hydride for application in cryogenic devices
Authors: Smarzhevskaya Alexandra I. , Iwasieczko Waclaw , Verbetsky Viktor N. , Nikitin Sergey A.
Published: April 2014

The paper presents the investigation of GdNiH3.2 hydride magnetocaloric properties. The isothermal magnetization in the fields up to 5 T and heat capacity data are obtained for GdNiH3.2 and GdNi compounds. The maximum value of magnetic entropy change ΔSM in GdNiH3.2 is extremely large and obtained in much lower temperature range compared to GdNi.

It is shown that the hydrogenation does not noticeably affect the value of ΔSM but shifts ΔSM(T) maximum to lower temperatures (∼ 11K). The possibility of GdNiH3.2 application in cryogenic devices is discussed.

(© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Objective Bayesian meta‐analysis for sparse discrete data
Authors: Moreno E. , Vázquez‐Polo F.J. , Negrín M.A.
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a Bayesian model for meta‐analysis of sparse discrete binomial data, which are out of the scope of the usual hierarchical normal random‐effect models. Treatment effectiveness data are often of this type.

The crucial linking distribution between the effectiveness conditional on the healthcare center and the unconditional effectiveness is constructed from specific bivariate classes of distributions with given marginals. This assures coherency between the marginal and conditional prior distributions utilized in the analysis. Further, we impose a bivariate class of priors that is able to accommodate a wide range of heterogeneity degrees between the multicenter clinical trials involved. Applications to real multicenter data are given and compared with previous meta‐analysis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of Mechanical Properties of Carbon Steels After Hot and Cold Forming by Means of Fast Microstructure Analysis
Authors: Šimek Daniel , Oswald Anja , Schmidtchen Rosita , Motylenko Mykhaylo , Lehmann Gunter , Rafaja David
Published: April 2014

A new method for fast microstructure analysis of heavily deformed ferritic–pearlitic (F–P) steels has been developed based on X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The method provides information about residual stresses and microstructure defects occurring within the material volume and therefore allows reliable estimation of strength properties. Besides, significant reduction of testing time can be achieved compared to conventional investigation methods. Development and testing of “fast microstructure analysis” was done by means of experimental simulation of wire and rod production process including hot rolling, wire drawing, and heat treatment of steel C45 with ferrite/pearlite microstructure. It was found that the dominant structure defects driving the ultimate tensile strength of F–P steel in case of hot‐rolled and heated steel are the misfit dislocations in pearlite, while in the cold‐drawn wires, it is the residual stress borne by the cementite lamellas.
Multi‐Objective Genetic Algorithm to Optimize Variable Drawbead Geometry for Tailor Welded Blanks Made of Dissimilar Steels
Authors: Hariharan Krishnaswamy , Nguyen Ngoc‐Trung , Chakraborti Nirupam , Lee Myoung‐Gyu , Barlat Frédéric
Published: April 2014

Formability of a tailor welded blank (TWB) is affected by the strength ratio of the base metals joined. In this paper, formability of TWB with very high strength ratio made by joining twinning‐induced plasticity (TWIP) and low carbon steels is numerically studied using a limiting dome height test. The drawbead geometry at the weaker side is modified to increase the dome height. The design of drawbead is optimized by treating it as a multi‐objective problem with maximum dome height and minimum weldline movement as objectives, which were constructed as metamodels through a genetic algorithms based approach. The necessary data for the metamodeling are generated by finite element (FE) simulation using the commercial solver, LS‐DYNA®. The multi‐objective optimization is carried out using a predator–prey genetic algorithm. The Pareto front estimated using this evolutionary approach is validated using FE simulations and a good correlation is obtained.
Defining the Localization and Molecular Characteristic of Minor Salivary Gland Label-Retaining Cells
Authors: Zhang Hongjun , Boddupally Keerthi , Kandyba Eve , Kobielak Krzysztof , Chen Yibu , Zu Sutao , Krishnan Rashi , Sinha Uttam , Kobielak Agnieszka
Published: April 2014

Adult stem cells (SCs) are important to maintain homeostasis of tissues including several mini-organs like hair follicles and sweat glands. However, the existence of stem cells in minor salivary glands (SGs) is largely unexplored. In vivo histone2B green fluorescent protein pulse chase strategy has allowed us to identify slow-cycling, label-retaining cells (LRCs) of minor SGs that preferentially localize in the basal layer of the lower excretory duct with a few in the acini. Engraftment of isolated SG LRC in vivo demonstrated their potential to differentiate into keratin 5 (basal layer marker) and keratin 8 (luminal layer marker)-positive structures. Transcriptional analysis revealed activation of TGFβ1 target genes in SG LRC and BMP signaling in SG progenitors. We also provide evidence that minor SGSCs are sensitive to tobacco-derived tumor-inducing agent and give rise to tumors resembling low grade adenoma. Our data highlight for the first time the existence of minor SG LRCs with stem cells characteristic and emphasize the role of transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) pathway in their maintenance. Stem Cells  2014;32:2267–2277
Cell Isolation Induces Fate Changes of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Cells Leading to Loss or Alternatively to Acquisition of New Differentiation Potentials
Authors: Shoshani Ofer , Ravid Orly , Massalha Hassan , Aharonov Alla , Ovadya Yossi , Pevsner-Fischer Meirav , Leshkowitz Dena , Zipori Dov
Published: April 2014

Mesenchymal stromal cell populations include a fraction, termed mesenchymal stem cells, exhibiting multipotency. Other cells within this population possess a lesser differentiation range. This was assumed to be due to a mesenchymal cellular cascade topped by a multipotent cell, which gives rise to progeny with diminishing differentiation potentials. Here, we show that mesenchymal cells, a priori exhibiting a limited differentiation potential, may gain new capacities and become multipotent following single-cell isolation. These fate changes were accompanied by upregulation of differentiation promoting genes, many of which also became H4K20me1 methylated. Early events in the process included TGFβ and Wnt modulation, and downregulation of hypoxia signaling. Indeed, hypoxic conditions inhibited the observed cell changes. Overall, cell isolation from neighboring partners caused major molecular changes and particularly, a newly established epigenetic state, ultimately leading to the acquisition of new differentiation potentials and an altered cell fate. Stem Cells  2014;32:2008–2020
Effects of irradiation on the mechanical, electrical, and flammability properties of (low‐density polyethylene)/(ethylene‐[vinyl acetate] copolymer) blends containing alumina trihydrate
Authors: Bee Soo‐Tueen , Hassan Azman , Ratnam Chantara , Tee Tiam‐Ting , Sin Lee Tin
Published: April 2014

Alumina trihydrate (ATH) was added to (low‐density polyethylene)/(ethylene‐[vinyl acetate] copolymer) blends (LPEs) to enhance their flame resistance. The addition of substantial amounts of ATH has been known to have deleterious effects on the mechanical properties of such blends. Hence, electron beam irradiation was used to improve the mechanical properties of our ATH‐filled LPE specimens. The specimens were irradiated at 50 to 150 kGy before being cut into specified shapes for analysis. The increase in the irradiation dosage increased the gel content as a result of the formation of crosslinked networks. Also, the flame resistance of the LPE blends was enhanced by increasing both the loading level of ATH and the irradiation dosage. However, a high ATH loading level reduced tensile strength and elongation at break. Nevertheless, the electron beam irradiation maintained the tensile strength and elongation of the ATH‐filled blends. In addition, a higher content of ATH in the LPE blends showed reactive interaction with irradiation effects. A higher amount of ATH reduced the electrical resistivity of the blends, but analysis of their surface and volume resistivity showed that the electrical resistance of the ATH‐filled LPE blends could be improved by electron beam irradiation in the range of 50 to 150 kGy. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 20:91–98, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Application of an advanced pinch methodology for the food and drink production
Authors: Muster‐Slawitsch Bettina , Brunner Christoph , Fluch Jürgen
Published: April 2014

Two key steps in reducing the energy demand of a production site are (1) technological optimization via efficient technologies increasing process efficiency and (2) system optimization via heat integration of the total production site. Heat integration solutions will be influenced by the implemented process technologies, so the evaluation of the existing technologies and analysis of potential changes is a vital basis in energy demand reduction. This article presents the new pinch analysis tool ‘SOCO’ for systematic heat integration with intelligent storage systems which can reduce thermal energy consumption and improve the design of solar process heat integration in the food industry, specifically in breweries. The application to two brewery case studies reveals the usability of the new approach for designing new heat recovery concepts and the implications of technology changes in the energy demand profile. The simulation module of SOCO identifies that the use of modern state‐of‐the‐art technologies in brewing can enhance heat integration potential by 10–35% for different processes and allows the evaluation of storage design. WIREs Energy Environ 2014, 3:561–574. doi: 10.1002/wene.117

This article is categorized under:

Energy Efficiency > Science and Materials

Energy Systems Economics > Science and Materials

Energy Systems Economics > Systems and Infrastructure
Integrated biomass hydropyrolysis and hydrotreating: a brief review
Authors: Linck Martin , Felix Larry , Marker Terry , Roberts Michael
Published: April 2014

This article provides a brief overview of recent work connected with integrated hydropyrolysis and hydrotreating of biomass. It covers relevant aspects of biomass pyrolysis, and describes a process wherein oxygen is eliminated from pyrolysis vapors in the presence of hydrogen and appropriate catalysts. An integrated version of a process is discussed, wherein the reforming of noncondensable hydrocarbon vapors is used to generate all the hydrogen required to sustain hydropyrolysis and hydroconversion, and produce a deoxygenated liquid hydrocarbon fuel. WIREs Energy Environ 2014, 3:575–581. doi: 10.1002/wene.119

This article is categorized under:

Bioenergy > Systems and Infrastructure

Energy Policy and Planning > Climate and Environment

Energy and Development > Science and Materials
Temporal interval pattern languages to characterize time flow
Authors: Höppner Frank , Peter Sebastian
Published: April 2014

Knowledge discovery from temporal data (e.g., time series) is among the most challenging problems in data mining. Compared to static representations like rules or decision trees, the temporal component greatly increases the pattern diversity. It is important to keep the human perception of time flow in mind when representing temporal patterns, otherwise we open the floodgates to misinterpretation and misconception. This article gives an overview of temporal interval patterns, which are considered as being a well‐suited mechanism of knowledge representation, and focusses on the various pattern representation languages. Four typical phenomena in temporal data, and how the pattern languages can cope with them, are discussed. Given the domain knowledge, this provides the reader some guidance on which pattern language may be best‐suited for a given application. WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov 2014, 4:196–212. doi: 10.1002/widm.1122

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Spatial and Temporal Data Mining

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Knowledge Representation
Smart dual‐mode fluorescent gold nanoparticle agents
Authors: Kang Kyung A. , Wang Jianting
Published: April 2014

Fluorophore‐mediated, molecular sensing is one of the most popular and important technique in biomedical studies. As in any sensing technique, the two most important factors in this sensing are the sensitivity and specificity. Since the fluorescence of a fluorophore is emitted in the process of fluorophore electrons returning from their excited to ground state, a tool that can locally manipulate the electron state can be useful to maximize the sensitivity and specificity. A good tool candidate for this purpose is nanosized metal particles that can form an electromagnetic (EM) field at a sufficiently strong level, upon receiving a particular wavelength that fits the excitation wavelength of the fluorophore to be used. There are several metal nanoparticle types that can generate a sufficiently strong EM field for this purpose. Nevertheless, for the biomedical studies, which require minimal toxicity, gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are known to be the most suitable. In this article, various methods for fluorescence alteration using GNPs, which can be beneficially utilized for biomarker‐specific, highly sensitive molecular sensing and imaging, are discussed.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > Biosensing

Diagnostic Tools > In Vitro Nanoparticle-Based Sensing
Study of metabolic network of Cupriavidus necator DSM 545 growing on glycerol by applying elementary flux modes and yield space analysis
Authors: Lopar Markan , Špoljarić Ivna Vrana , Cepanec Nikolina , Koller Martin , Braunegg Gerhart , Horvat Predrag
Published: April 2014

A metabolic network consisting of 48 reactions was established to describe intracellular processes during growth and poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) production for Cupriavidus necator DSM 545. Glycerol acted as the sole carbon source during exponential, steady-state cultivation conditions. Elementary flux modes were obtained by the program Metatool and analyzed by using yield space analysis. Four sets of elementary modes were obtained, depending on whether the pair NAD/NADH or FAD/FADH2 contributes to the reaction of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GLY-3-P DH), and whether 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6-PG DH) is present or not. Established metabolic network and the related system of equations provide multiple solutions for the simultaneous synthesis of PHB and biomass; this number of solutions can be further increased if NAD/NADH or FAD/FADH2 were assumed to contribute in the reaction of GLY-3-P DH. As a major outcome, it was demonstrated that experimentally determined yields for biomass and PHB with respect to glycerol fit well to the values obtained in silico when the Entner–Doudoroff pathway (ED) dominates over the glycolytic pathway; this is also the case if the Embden–Meyerhof–Parnas pathway dominates over the ED.
Decreased processing speed might account for working memory span deficit in schizophrenia, and might mediate the associations between working memory span and clinical symptoms
Authors: Brébion G. , Stephan-Otto C. , Huerta-Ramos E. , Usall J. , Perez del Olmo M. , Contel M. , Haro J.M. , Ochoa S.
Published: April 2014

Objective

Verbal working memory span is decreased in patients with schizophrenia, and this might contribute to impairment in higher cognitive functions as well as to the formation of certain clinical symptoms. Processing speed has been identified as a crucial factor in cognitive efficiency in this population. We tested the hypothesis that decreased processing speed underlies the verbal working memory deficit in patients and mediates the associations between working memory span and clinical symptoms.

Method

Forty-nine schizophrenia inpatients recruited from units for chronic and acute patients, and forty-five healthy participants, were involved in the study. Verbal working memory span was assessed by means of the letter-number span. The Digit Copy test was used to assess motor speed, and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test to assess cognitive speed.

Results

The working memory span was significantly impaired in patients (F(1,90) = 4.6,P< 0.05). However, the group difference was eliminated when either the motor or the cognitive speed measure was controlled (F(1,89) = 0.03,P= 0.86, and F(1,89) = 0.03,P= 0.88). In the patient group, working memory span was significantly correlated with negative symptoms (r= –0.52,P< 0.0001) and thought disorganisation (r= –0.34,P< 0.025) scores. Regression analyses showed that the association with negative symptoms was no longer significant when the motor speed measure was controlled (β = –0.12,P= 0.20), while the association with thought disorganisation was no longer significant when the cognitive speed measure was controlled (β = –0.10,P= 0.26).

Conclusions

Decrement in motor and cognitive speed plays a significant role in both the verbal working memory impairment observed in patients and the associations between verbal working memory impairment and clinical symptoms.
Prenatal exposure to glucocorticoids affects body weight, serum leptin levels, and hypothalamic neuropeptide‐Y expression in pre‐pubertal female rat offspring
Authors: Iwasa Takeshi , Matsuzaki Toshiya , Munkhzaya Munkhsaikhan , Tungalagsuvd Altankhuu , Kawami Takako , Murakami Masahiro , Yamasaki Mikio , Kato Takeshi , Kuwahara Akira , Yasui Toshiyuki , Irahara Minoru
Published: April 2014

Glucocorticoid secretion is a key endocrine response to stress. It has been reported that prenatal stress induces long‐lasting alterations in body weight regulation systems, which persist after the stress has ceased. In this study, the long‐term effects of prenatal glucocorticoid exposure on body weight changes and the expression of appetite‐regulating factors were examined in female rats. Pregnant rats were given normal drinking water (control) or dexamethasone (1 μg/mL) dissolved in drinking water (DEX) from day 13 of pregnancy until delivery. Then, the body weight change, serum leptin levels, and hypothalamic NPY mRNA levels of their offspring were examined. The DEX dams gained significantly less body weight during pregnancy than the control dams. The DEX dams' offspring exhibited a significantly lower birth weight than the offspring of the control dams, and the same was true for body weight at postnatal days 20 and 28. The offspring of the DEX dams displayed significantly higher serum leptin levels and significantly lower hypothalamic NPY mRNA levels compared with the offspring of the control dams. Significant inverse correlations were detected between body weight and the serum leptin level, and between the serum leptin level and the hypothalamic NPY mRNA level. On the other hand, a significant positive correlation was detected between body weight and the hypothalamic NPY mRNA level. These results indicate that leptin production is increased in a long‐lasting manner in offspring exposed to glucocorticoids during the prenatal period and that this results in attenuated body weight gain and hypothalamic NPY expression during the pre‐pubertal period.
The cerebrospinal fluid “Alzheimer profile”: Easily said, but what does it mean?
Authors: Duits Flora H. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , Bouwman Femke H. , Visser Pieter‐Jelle , Mattsson Niklas , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Hansson Oskar , Minthon Lennart , Andreasen Niels , Marcusson Jan , Wallin Anders , Rikkert Marcel Olde , Tsolaki Magda , Parnetti Lucilla , Herukka Sanna‐Kaisa , Hampel Harald , De Leon Mony J. , Schröder Johannes , Aarsland Dag , Blankenstein Marinus A. , Scheltens Philip , van der Flier Wiesje M.
Published: April 2014

Background

We aimed to identify the most useful definition of the “cerebrospinal fluid Alzheimer profile,” based on amyloid‐ß1‐42 (Aβ42), total tau, and phosphorylated tau (p‐tau), for diagnosis and prognosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

We constructed eight Alzheimer profiles with previously published combinations, including regression formulas and simple ratios. We compared their diagnostic accuracy and ability to predict dementia due to AD in 1385 patients from the Amsterdam Dementia Cohort. Results were validated in an independent cohort (n = 1442).

Results

Combinations outperformed individual biomarkers. Based on the sensitivity of the best performing regression formulas, cutoffs were chosen at 0.52 for the tau/Aβ42 ratio and 0.08 for the p‐tau/Aβ42 ratio. Ratios performed similar to formulas (sensitivity, 91%–93%; specificity, 81%–84%). The same combinations best predicted cognitive decline in mild cognitive impairment patients. Validation confirmed these results, especially regarding the tau/Aβ42 ratio.

Conclusions

A tau/Aβ42 ratio of >0.52 constitutes a robust cerebrospinal fluid Alzheimer profile. We recommend using this ratio to combine biomarkers.