bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐collinear optical parametric amplifier for time‐resolved broadband picosecond CARS
Authors: Vereshchagin Alexey K. , Vereshchagin Konstantin A. , Morozov Vyacheslav B. , Tunkin Vladimir G.
Published: February 2014

We demonstrate generation of broadband high‐intensity picosecond pulses using a non‐collinear optical parametric amplifier, seeded with a broadband cavity‐less dye laser and pumped using the second harmonic of a picosecond Nd:YAG laser. With appropriate choice of the pump‐seed non‐collinearity angle, we observed energy conversion from the pump to the signal wave of around 15%, with the bandwidth of the amplified radiation around 445 cm−1 (20.7 nm) centered around 680 nm. An energy of 1.2 mJ per pulse of duration around 26 ps has been achieved. A light source with such parameters could be suitable for use in time‐resolved broadband picosecond Coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐mobility self‐aligned top‐gate oxide TFT for high‐resolution AM‐OLED
Authors: Morosawa Narihiro , Nishiyama Masanori , Ohshima Yoshihiro , Sato Ayumu , Terai Yasuhiro , Tokunaga Kazuhiko , Iwasaki Junji , Akamatsu Keiichi , Kanitani Yuya , Tanaka Shinji , Arai Toshiaki , Nomoto Kazumasa
Published: February 2014

High‐mobility and highly reliable self‐aligned top‐gate oxide thin‐film transistor (TFTs) were developed using the aluminum reaction method. Al diffusion to the oxide semiconductor and homogenization of the oxygen concentration in the depth direction after annealing were confirmed by laser‐assisted atom probe tomography. The high mobility of the top‐gate TFT with amorphous indium tin zinc oxide channel was demonstrated to be 32 cm2/V s. A 9.9‐in. diagonal qHD active‐matrix organic light‐emitting diode (AM‐OLED) display was fabricated using a five‐mask backplane process to demonstrate an applicable solution for large‐sized and high‐resolution AM‐OLEDs.
Crumple zone effect of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses on posterior cranial fossa
Authors: Lee Thomas S. , Kellman Robert , Darling Andrew
Published: February 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Examine a protective crumple zone effect of paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity on skull base fractures.

Study Design

Randomized‐control, cadaveric study.

Methods

In the experimental group (n = 4), the nasal cavity and bilateral sinuses of cadavers were obliterated with bone cement, whereas the control group (n = 4) had native sinus architecture. Increasing frontal, glabellar impacts were introduced. Each impact event was examined with a high‐speed video camera and sphenoid sinus pressure sensor. After each impact, computed tomography scans were performed and fracture sites were analyzed.

Results

The control group with intact sinuses showed statistically longer time duration, during which kinetic energy transfer occurred, and longer sphenoid wall pressure equilibrium time after an impact (P < 0.05). In the experimental group, there were statistically higher fracture incidences of clivus, petrous portion of internal carotid, occipital bone, and foramen magnum (P < 0.05). The type A pattern (n = 6) had anterior skull base failure occurring before posterior skull base failure. Type B pattern (n = 2), seen only in two experimental specimens, is marked by premature posterior skull base collapse occurring before anterior skull base failure with grossly disrupted posterior cranial fossa structures.

Conclusion

The presence of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses behaves as a crumple zone to protect the cranial structures, preferentially posterior cranial fossa. Obliteration of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses with bone cement significantly increased structural tolerance of the anterior cranial vault to frontal, glabellar impacts at the cost of premature, posterior cranial fossa failure.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope 124:2241–2246, 2014
Enzymatic Synthesis of Amylose Brushes Revisited: Details from X‐Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry
Authors: Mazzocchetti Laura , Tsoufis Theodoros , Rudolf Petra , Loos Katja
Published: February 2014

The successful synthesis of amylose brushes via enzymatic “grafting from” polymerization and the detailed characterization of all synthetic steps by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements are reported. Au and Si surfaces are amino‐functionalized with self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of cystamine and 3‐aminopropyldimethyethoxysilane (APDMES), respectively. Maltoheptaose is covalently attached to the amino‐functionalized Au and Si surfaces via reductive amination. Amylose brushes are grown from maltoheptaose modified Au and Si surfaces with enzymatic polymerization using potato phosphorylase and Rabbit Muscle phosphorylase, as evidenced by spectroscopic ellipsometry and XPS measurements.
Regularity of weak solutions to rate‐independent systems in one‐dimension
Authors: Minh Mach Nguyet
Published: February 2014

We show that under some appropriate assumptions, every weak solution (e.g. energetic solution) to a given rate‐independent system is of class SBV, or has finite jumps, or is even piecewise C1. Our assumption is essentially imposed on the energy functional, but not convexity is required.
Crosslink Density Changes during the Hydrolysis of Tridimensional Polyesters
Authors: Richaud Emmanuel , Gilormini Pierre , Coquillat Marie , Verdu Jacques
Published: February 2014

The hydrolysis of almost ideal networks based on macrodiols of average molar mass about 2 kg mol−1, with L = 18 ester groups per chain is studied. Tensile testing is used to evaluate the crosslink density through the statistical theory of rubber elasticity at two temperatures and three values of relative humidity. A kinetic model for ester consumption including an autocatalysis term is proposed and combined with two original approaches for modeling the crosslink density changes. This allows kinetic parameters of hydrolysis to be determined, and very good predictions are obtained for the variations of crosslink density (or elastic modulus) in the three aging conditions considered. The initial curvature of elastic modulus versus time is predicted positive for weak autocatalysis and negative for strong autocatalysis. The obtained conversion ratio at degelation is found to decrease sharply with the number of esters per elastically active chain.
Pramipexole reverses Parkinson's disease‐related motivational deficits in rats
Authors: Favier Mathieu , Duran Theo , Carcenac Carole , Drui Guillaume , Savasta Marc , Carnicella Sebastien
Published: February 2014

Recent evidence suggests that Parkinson's disease affects not only movement, but also cognitive and psychiatric functions. Among these nonmotor complications, apathy, which is defined as a lack of motivation and operationalized as a quantitative reduction in goal‐directed behavior, may even precede motor impairments, disappearing with the introduction of dopaminergic (DA) therapies and possibly reappearing with its discontinuation, suggesting a causal role of DA. We recently developed a lesion‐based model, with stereotaxic infusion of 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) into precise areas of the rat SNc or ventral tegmental area and showed, in several operant tasks, that a partial denervation of the nigrostriatal, but not of the mesocorticolimbic, DA system induced profound motivational deficits during instrumental action. We investigated the time course of the effects of nigrostriatal DA denervation on motivation in rats, by assessing the negative effect of SNc bilateral 6‐OHDA infusion on preacquired operant behavior, and determining whether the induced deficits were sensitive to the introduction and withdrawal of a clinically relevant PD treatment, the DA D2/D3 receptor agonist, pramipexole (PRA). Partial nigrostriatal DA denervation was accompanied by a significant reduction in operant behavior. This deficit, indicative of a decrease in motivation, was fully reversed by PRA and reappeared after treatment withdrawal. This longitudinal preclinical study provides evidence for the implication of the DA nigrostriatal system in PD‐associated apathy. Moreover, by showing a good isomorphy and predictive value, our model highlights the relevance of D2/D3 receptors as potential targets for alleviating apathy in PD. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
CTSC and Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome: detection of recurrent mutations in Hungarian patients, a review of published variants and database update
Authors: Nagy Nikoletta , Vályi Péter , Csoma Zsanett , Sulák Adrienn , Tripolszki Kornélia , Farkas Katalin , Paschali Ekaterine , Papp Ferenc , Tóth Lola , Fábos Beáta , Kemény Lajos , Nagy Katalin , Széll Márta
Published: February 2014

Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS; OMIM 245000) is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by palmoplantar hyperkeratosis and periodontitis. In 1997, the gene locus for PLS was mapped to 11q14‐21, and in 1999, variants in the cathepsin C gene (CTSC) were identified as causing PLS. To date, a total of 75 different disease‐causing mutations have been published for the CTSC gene. A summary of recurrent mutations identified in Hungarian patients and a review of published mutations is presented in this update. Comparison of clinical features in affected families with the same mutation strongly confirm that identical mutations of the CTSC gene can give rise to multiple different phenotypes, making genotype–phenotype correlations difficult. Variable expression of the phenotype associated with the same CTSC mutation may reflect the influence of other genetic and/or environmental factors. Most mutations are missense (53%), nonsense (23%), or frameshift (17%); however, in‐frame deletions, one splicing variant, and one 5′ untranslated region (UTR) mutation have also been reported. The majority of the mutations are located in exons 5–7, which encodes the heavy chain of the cathepsin C protein, suggesting that tetramerization is important for cathepsin C enzymatic activity. All the data reviewed here have been submitted to the CTSC base, a mutation registry for PLS at http://bioinf.uta.fi/CTSCbase/.
A rare sequence variant in intron 1 of THAP1 is associated with primary dystonia
Authors: Vemula Satya R. , Xiao Jianfeng , Zhao Yu , Bastian Robert W. , Perlmutter Joel S. , Racette Brad A. , Paniello Randal C. , Wszolek Zbigniew K. , Uitti Ryan J. , Van Gerpen Jay A. , Hedera Peter , Truong Daniel D. , Blitzer Andrew , Rudzińska Monika , Momčilović Dragana , Jinnah Hyder A. , Frei Karen , Pfeiffer Ronald F. , LeDoux Mark S.
Published: February 2014

Although coding variants in THAP1 have been causally associated with primary dystonia, the contribution of noncoding variants remains uncertain. Herein, we examine a previously identified Intron 1 variant (c.71+9C>A, rs200209986). Among 1672 subjects with mainly adult‐onset primary dystonia, 12 harbored the variant in contrast to 1/1574 controls (P < 0.01). Dystonia classification included cervical dystonia (N = 3), laryngeal dystonia (adductor subtype, N = 3), jaw‐opening oromandibular dystonia (N = 1), blepharospasm (N = 2), and unclassified (N = 3). Age of dystonia onset ranged from 25 to 69 years (mean = 54 years). In comparison to controls with no identified THAP1 sequence variants, the c.71+9C>A variant was associated with an elevated ratio of Isoform 1 (NM_018105) to Isoform 2 (NM_199003) in leukocytes. In silico and minigene analyses indicated that c.71+9C>A alters THAP1 splicing. Lymphoblastoid cells harboring the c.71+9C>A variant showed extensive apoptosis with relatively fewer cells in the G2 phase of the cell cycle. Differentially expressed genes from lymphoblastoid cells revealed that the c.71+9C>A variant exerts effects on DNA synthesis, cell growth and proliferation, cell survival, and cytotoxicity. In aggregate, these data indicate that THAP1 c.71+9C>A is a risk factor for adult‐onset primary dystonia.
Targeting mitochondrial alterations to prevent type 2 diabetes—Evidence from studies of dietary redox‐active compounds
Authors: Cheng Zhiyong , Schmelz Eva M. , Liu Dongmin , Hulver Matthew W.
Published: February 2014

As a growing epidemic, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has significantly affected the individual's quality of life and economy of the society. Understanding the mechanisms of the disease and discovery of new therapeutic options has become more urgent than ever before. Mitochondrial alterations (e.g. functional alterations, and impaired biogenesis and dynamics) are strongly associated with the development of T2DM. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species or intermediates of incomplete fatty acid oxidation due to mitochondrial deficiency activates stress kinases and dampens insulin signaling. Redox‐active compounds such as resveratrol, pyrroloquinoline quinone, and hydroxytyrosol can potently counteract reactive oxygen species, and improve mitochondrial function and biogenesis. Therefore, targeting the mitochondrial alterations with these redox‐active compounds may lead to new therapeutic or preventive options for T2DM. In this article, we review the molecular mechanisms of mitochondrial alterations in T2DM, and the action of redox‐active compounds to reverse mitochondrial changes and oxidative stress in T2DM. In addition, the current challenges and future directions are discussed and prospected.
Reference values for dynamic facial muscle ultrasonography in adults
Authors: Volk Gerd Fabian , Sauer Maik , Pohlmann Martin , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Ultrasonography can detect structural muscle changes caused by neuromuscular disease, but it has not yet been applied to facial nerve diseases. Quantitative analysis would be the preferred method to determine whether ultrasound findings are within normal limits, but there are no normative data for mimic muscles. The purpose of this study was to provide gender‐specific normative ultrasonography data for muscle area, diameter, and contractility for mimic and masticatory muscles in adults.Methods: Bilateral scans of multiple mimic and masticatory muscles were performed at rest and during contraction in 140 volunteers, aged 21–93 years.Results: Almost all mimic muscles, but not the temporalis muscles, had symmetric size. The muscle sizes showed gender differences and a muscle‐specific correlation with body weight, but not with age.Conclusions: These data provide normative values that can be used in clinical practice.Muscle Nerve50: 348–357, 2014
Influence of needle electrode depth on DE‐STA motor unit number estimation
Authors: Ives Colleen T. , Doherty Timothy J.
Published: February 2014

Introduction: To assess a potential source of technique‐associated error, we evaluated the influence of needle electrode depth on decomposition‐enhanced spike‐triggered averaging (DE‐STA) motor unit number estimation (MUNE) and quantitative motor unit analysis in the upper trapezius (UT). Methods: The DE‐STA MUNE protocol was performed at superficial, intermediate, and deep needle electrode depths in 18 control subjects. Results: Mean surface‐detected motor unit potential amplitudes were significantly smaller for intermediate versus superficial (P < 0.05), deep versus superficial (P < 0.001), and deep versus intermediate (P < 0.05). MUNE was significantly larger for deep versus superficial (P < 0.001), with statistical trends toward larger MUNE values at greater depths for the remaining comparisons. No significant differences were found among needle electrode depths for quantitative motor unit potential parameters. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the important influence of needle electrode depth on DE‐STA MUNE in the UT. Suggestions are made for improved standardization of the protocol. Muscle Nerve 50: 587–592, 2014
Efficient sparse polynomial chaos expansion methodology for the probabilistic analysis of computationally‐expensive deterministic models
Authors: Al‐Bittar T. , Soubra A.‐H.
Published: February 2014

The sparse polynomial chaos expansion (SPCE) methodology is an efficient approach that deals with uncertainties propagation in case of high‐dimensional problems (i.e., when a large number of random variables is involved). This methodology significantly reduces the computational cost with respect to the classical full PCE methodology. Notice however that when dealing with computationally‐expensive deterministic models, the time cost remains important even with the use of the SPCE. In this paper, an efficient combined use of the SPCE methodology and the Global Sensitivity Analysis is proposed to solve such problem. The proposed methodology is firstly validated using a relatively non‐expensive deterministic model that involves the computation of the PDF of the ultimate bearing capacity of a strip footing resting on a weightless spatially varying soil where the soil cohesion and angle of internal friction are modeled by two anisotropic non‐Gaussian cross‐correlated random fields. This methodology is then applied to an expensive model that considers the case of a ponderable soil. A brief parametric study is presented in this case to show the efficiency of the proposed methodology. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secondary consolidation of clay as an anomalous diffusion process
Authors: Cosenza Philippe , Korošak Dean
Published: February 2014

Secondary consolidation of clay soil is considered as a result of anomalous diffusion of pore water pressure from the micropores to the macropores. By using simplified pore geometry, a heuristic approach allows us to infer the expression of the associated rate of vertical secondary deformation written as a fractional derivative of the pore pressure. The insertion of this expression into the 1D Terzaghi's theory leads to a particular type of time‐fractional diffusion equation of the pore pressure that is solved semi‐analytically. The advantage of such theoretical approach stems from the concise and compact way of treating the secondary consolidation. Only two additional parameters are needed: the fractional order, ν, and the fractional viscosity factor, θ, both accounting for the physicochemical interactions between pore fluid and clay particles.

This theoretical approach is tested on experimental data obtained from the Cubzac‐les‐Ponts clay soil intensively studied for secondary consolidation. This application shows a good agreement between the data and the predicted values confirming the interest of the initial assumption and the use of the fractional derivatives formalism. Moreover, good correlations between the inverted fractional parameters and the empirical secondary consolidation index Cα measured independently are obtained: the fractional order ν, if experimentally calibrated, can be used as a reasonable estimator of the slope of the secondary consolidation portion of consolidation curve. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brachytherapy in children with rhabdomyosarcomas of the nasolabial fold
Authors: Mazeron Renaud , Oberlin Odile , Dumas Isabelle , Kolb Frédéric , Goulart Jennifer , Rivin Eleonor , Haie‐Méder Christine
Published: February 2014

Background

Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) of the nasolabial fold can be difficult to manage surgically due to functional and cosmetic limitations. Therefore, brachytherapy (BT) has been proposed to improve local control while limiting the volume of irradiation as well as the extent of the surgical excision.

Materials and methods

Sixteen pediatric cases with RMS of the nasolabial fold treated from 1971 to 2005 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Median follow‐up was 4.4 years (1.7–33). Half of the patients were male and their age at diagnosis ranged from 4 months to 13.5 years. Histological subtypes included 10 embryonal and 6 alveolar RMS. Initial treatment consisted of induction multi‐agent chemotherapy in all cases. In 12 patients, BT was combined with local excision (4 complete resections, 1 with macroscopic residual disease, and 7 with microscopic disease). Low dose‐rate brachytherapy was performed in all cases according to the Paris system, using plastic catheters implanted per‐operatively. The doses delivered ranged from 50 to 70 Gy, depending on chemotherapy response, and surgical margin status. 10 patients relapsed: 4 local, 6 regional, and 2 metastatic failures were reported. The median time to relapse was 6.5 months. At the time of analysis eight patients were alive and four had died. Four cases, under palliative care at last check‐up, were lost to follow‐up.

Conclusion

BT provided an acceptable local control rate, but the poor regional control of these cases may suggest a need for more aggressive management of cervical regional lymph node regions in RMS of the nasolabial fold. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1162–1167. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bilateral Wilms tumors treated according to the Japan Wilms Tumor Study Group protocol
Authors: Oue Takaharu , Koshinaga Tsugumichi , Okita Hajime , Kaneko Yasuhiko , Hinotsu Shiro , Fukuzawa Masahiro
Published: February 2014

Background

The introduction of multimodal therapy has improved the survival rate of bilateral Wilms tumors (BWT); however, the results are still not satisfactory in terms of the renal preservation. To establish a new treatment strategy for BWT, we reviewed the results of the cases registered in the Japan Wilms Tumor Study Group (JWiTS).

Procedure

This analysis concerned patients with synchronous BWT registered in the JWiTS between 1996 and 2011. In these patients, the management of BWT included initial tumor resection or biopsy followed by chemotherapy. The details of the treatments and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Among the 355 cases registered in the JWiTS database, 31 (8.7%) had BWT. They were 16 males and 15 females with a mean age of 15.5 months. Preoperative chemotherapy was performed in 24 cases. Bilateral nephron‐sparing surgery (NSS) was achieved in 10 of 28 cases (36%). All of the cases were of favorable nephroblastoma without anaplasia, and a WT1 mutation was detected in 21 of the 27 cases (78%) examined. The 5‐year overall survival was 92.6%; however, 10 children (40%) developed impaired renal function and three of them developed renal failure.

Conclusions

The long‐term survival rates for patients with synchronous BWT have improved. However, more than half of patients receive nephrectomy. The protocol should be changed to improve the rate of preservation of the renal parenchyma. Preoperative chemotherapy should be performed to shrink the tumors in every case, and subsequent NSS should be carried out after a central imaging evaluation. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1184–1189. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interfacial bond dependence of damping properties of carbon nanotubes enhanced polymers
Authors: Liu Shan , Chen Fei , Zhang Yanhua , Shen Qiang , Huang Zhixiong , Zhang Lianmeng
Published: February 2014

The effect of interfacial bond on damping properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) enhanced polymers is investigated. To acquire different interfacial bonds (including van der Waals, weak, and strong covalent bond) of CNTs enhanced polymers, different functionalizations of CNTs have been designed through acid treatment and silane termination. CNTs with silanization show superior dispersion state in the matrix regardless of CNTs content. When the CNTs content is lower than 0.2 wt%, a strong interfacial bond of CNTs/epoxy composites has a deleterious effect on the damping properties. When the CNTs content is greater than 0.2 wt%, the strong covalent bond becomes the dominant factor to enhance damping properties and slow down the decreasing rate of the damping properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:548–556, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Properties analysis of novel composites for space robots
Authors: Ning Xin , Dang Jing , Yue Xiaokui , Yuan Jianping
Published: February 2014

Basing on modeling analysis of kinematics and dynamics of the innovational spacecraft‐space robots, increasingly complex space operations require the advanced composites to have excellent mechanical properties at high frequency. The novel powdery nitrile butadiene rubbers (P‐NBRs) are performed to fabricate the P‐NBRs/cyanate esters (P‐NBRs/CE) and P‐NBRs/glass fiber/CE (P‐NBRs/GF/CE) composites. Results show that the flexural and impact strength of the P‐NBRs/CE composites are increased firstly, but decreased with the excessive addition of P‐NBRs. The heat resistant properties of the P‐NBRs/CE composites are decreased with the increasing addition of P‐NBRs. However, the mechanical properties of P‐NBRs/GF/CE composites are decreased with the increasing addition of P‐NBRs. The dielectric constant and dielectric loss of the P‐NBRs/GF/CE composites are increased with the increasing addition of P‐NBRs. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:564–569, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical properties of unidirectional continuous fiber self‐reinforced polyethylene graded laminates
Authors: Li Li , Liu Xueting , Zhou Xiaoou , Hong Jie , Zhuang Xingmin , Yan Xiong
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study is to prepare of self‐reinforced polyethylene graded composite laminates (SrPEGCL) by adopting both concepts of “graded” and “self‐reinforced” and analyze their mechanical properties under tensile loading. Three different kinds of fiber volume fractions were employed to prepare continuous fiber unidirectional symmetry SrPEGCL with two graded directions. Tensile experiments were carried out to investigate tensile properties of SrPE composites in longitudinal, transverse, and 45‐bias direction. The microscopic failure mechanism of SrPEGCL were studied and observed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Laminate stress analysis with ply‐by‐ply discount method was adopted to investigate the damage mechanism using failure criteria and parallel spring model. Observations and conclusions about the effect of graded structure and graded direction on mechanical properties of SrPEGCL under tensile loading were discussed. Compared to common self‐reinforced polyethylene composites, SrPEGCL with the same or even less overall fiber volume fraction exhibited 10–20% higher tensile strength under longitudinal, transverse and 45‐bias loading direction, while graded direction had an effect on the mechanical strength of SrPEGCL as well. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:128–137, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Novel conducting nanocomposite based on polypyrrole and modified poly(styrene‐alt‐maleic anhydride) via emulsion polymerization: Synthesis, Characterization, Antioxidant, and heavy metal sorbent activity
Authors: Nazarzadeh Zare Ehsan , Mansour Lakouraj Moslem , Najafi Moghadam Peyman , Hasanzadeh Reza
Published: February 2014

Novel polypyrrole/modified poly(styrene‐alt‐maleic anhydride) conducting nanocomposites were prepared via emulsion polymerization using sodium dodecyl sulfate as an emulsifier and ammonium persulfate as an oxidant. Modified poly(styrene‐alt‐maleic anhydride) was used as an external dopant for conductivity enhancement of polypyrrole. The conductivity of nanocomposites was measured with a four‐probe method. The maximum electrical conductivity of the nanocomposite was 1.40 S/cm. The data from this research showed that the novel nanocomposite presents good tendency for the removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solutions. Also the prepared nanocomposites were analyzed for their antioxidant activity using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl assay. The results showed that the antioxidant activity of the nanocomposite was 60%. The nanocomposites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared, ultraviolet–visible, X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry measurements. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:138–144, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cassava starch–kaolinite composite films. Thermal and mechanical properties related to filler–matrix interactions
Authors: Aimé Mbey Jean , Hoppe Sandrine , Thomas Fabien
Published: February 2014

The thermal and mechanical properties of cassava starch films are analyzed in relation to the starch–kaolinite interactions. The kaolinite filler induces a lowering of the crystallinity in accordance with an increase plasticization of the starch matrix. The increase of plasticization induces a decrease of the elastic modulus and an increase of the elongation at break. A retardant effect to the starch matrix decomposition is observed. The filler–matrix interface at which the plasticizer infiltration is enhanced and the reduction of starch chain–chain interactions appears as keys of the observed properties changes. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:184–191, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
AERS spider: an online interactive tool to mine statistical associations in Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Grigoriev Igor , zu Castell Wolfgang , Tsvetkov Philipp , Antonov Alexey V.
Published: February 2014

Background

Exploration of the Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS) data by a wide scientific community is limited due to several factors. First, AERS data must be intensively preprocessed to be converted into analyzable format. Second, application of the currently accepted disproportional reporting measures results in false positive signals.

Methods

We proposed a data mining strategy to improve hypothesis generation with respect to potential associations.

Results

By numerous examples, we illustrate that our strategy controls the false positive signals. We implemented a free online tool, AERS spider (www.chemoprofiling.org/AERS).

Conclusions

We believe that AERS spider would be a valuable tool for drug safety experts. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In‐plane coupling effect on absorption coefficients of InAs/GaAs quantum dots arrays for intermediate band solar cell
Authors: Tomić Stanko , Sogabe Tomah , Okada Yoshitaka
Published: February 2014

Coupled semiconductor quantum dot (QD) arrays emerged recently as promising structures for the next generation of high efficiency intermediate band solar cell (IBSC), because of their ability to facilitate the formation of minibands. The quantum coupling effect that exists between states in QDs in an array influences the electronic and optical properties of such structures. So far, great experimental and theoretical efforts have been devoted to study the vertically coupled QD arrays. We present here a method based on multi‐band k ⋅ p Hamiltonian combined with periodic boundary conditions, applied to predict the electronic and optical properties of InAs/GaAs QDs‐based lateral QD arrays. Formation of the intermediate band (IB) in all cases was achieved via delocalisation of the electron ground state (e0). We show that the IB in a laterally coupled QD‐IBSC is more robust against external electric field from the solar cell's pn junction than that in a vertically coupled arrangement. Because of symmetry of the QD array lattice and QD states itself, which are C2v for the zinc blend QDs, the electronic and absorption structures were obtained via sampling throughout the reciprocal space in the first Brillouin zone of QD arrays. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MALDI‐MSI and label‐free LC‐ESI‐MS/MS shotgun proteomics to investigate protein induction in a murine fibrosarcoma model following treatment with a vascular disrupting agent
Authors: Cole Laura M. , Bluff Joanne E. , Carolan Vikki A. , Paley Martyn N. , Tozer Gillian M. , Clench Malcolm R.
Published: February 2014

Tumour vasculature is notoriously sinusoidal and leaky, and is hence susceptible to vascular disruption. Microtubule destabilising drugs such as the combretastatins form the largest group of tumour vascular disrupting agents and cause selective shutdown of tumour blood flow within minutes to hours, leading to secondary tumour cell death. Targeting the tumour vasculature is a proven anticancer strategy but early treatment response biomarkers are required for personalising treatment planning. Protein induction following treatment with combretastatin A4‐phosphate was examined in a mouse fibrosarcoma model (fs188), where tumour cells express only the matrix‐bound isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF188). These tumours are relatively resistant to vascular disruption by combretastatin A4‐phosphate and hence a study of protein induction following treatment could yield insights into resistance mechanisms. The distribution of a number of proteins induced following treatment were visualised by MALDI‐mass spectrometry imaging. Responses identified were validated by LC‐ESI‐MS/MS and immunohistochemical staining. Significant changes in proteins connected with necrosis, cell structure, cell survival and stress‐induced molecular chaperones were identified. Protein–protein interactions were identified using STRING 9.0 proteomic network software. These relationship pathways provided an insight into the activity of the active tumour milieu and a means of linking the identified proteins to their functional partners.
Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Deposition of Poly Lactic Acid‐Like Coatings with Embedded Elastin
Authors: Da Ponte Gabriella , Sardella Eloisa , Fanelli Fiorenza , Paulussen Sabine , Favia Pietro
Published: February 2014

Atmospheric pressure plasmas are acquiring more interest in biomedical applications where synthetic biodegradable polymers modified to impart cells adhesion properties play a crucial role. This paper shows a new approach for the bio functionalization of such materials: inclusion of a biomolecule during the plasma deposition. A dielectric barrier discharge system was used for the coatings deposition, coupled with an atomizer for the lactic acid/elastin aerosol feeding. ATR‐FTIR, XPS, and UV–VIS were used to investigate the chemical composition of the coatings. By properly tuning plasma parameters, a good retention of the monomer chemical structure could be obtained in the coatings, as well as the inclusion of elastin in its structure.
Cryostratigraphy and Permafrost Evolution in the Lacustrine Lowlands of West‐Central Alaska
Authors: Kanevskiy Mikhail , Jorgenson Torre , Shur Yuri , O'Donnell Jonathan A. , Harden Jennifer W. , Zhuang Qianlai , Fortier Daniel
Published: February 2014

The influence of permafrost growth and thaw on the evolution of ice‐rich lowland terrain in the Koyukuk‐Innoko region of interior Alaska is fundamental but poorly understood. To elucidate this influence, the cryostratigraphy and properties of perennially frozen sediments from three areas in this region are described and interpreted in terms of permafrost history. The upper part of the late Quaternary sediments at the Koyukuk and Innoko Flats comprise frozen organic soils up to 4.5 m thick underlain by ice‐rich silt characterised by layered and reticulate cryostructures. The volume of visible segregated ice in silt locally reaches 50 per cent, with ice lenses up to 10 cm thick.

A conceptual model of terrain evolution from the Late Pleistocene to the present day identifies four stages of yedoma degradation and five stages of subsequent permafrost aggradation‐degradation: (1) partial thawing of the upper ice wedges and the formation of small shallow ponds in the troughs above the wedges; (2) formation of shallow thermokarst lakes above the polygons; (3) deepening of thermokarst lakes and yedoma degradation beneath the lakes; (4) complete thawing of yedoma beneath the lakes; (5) lake drainage; (6) peat accumulation; (7) permafrost aggradation in drained lake basins; (8) formation of permafrost plateaus; and (9) formation and expansion of a new generation of thermokarst features. These stages can occur in differing places and times, creating a highly complex mosaic of terrain conditions, complicating predictions of landscape response to future climatic changes or human impact. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping the sevoflurane‐binding sites of calmodulin
Authors: Brath Ulrika , Lau Kelvin , Van Petegem Filip , Erdélyi Máté
Published: February 2014

General anesthetics, with sevoflurane (SF) being the first choice inhalational anesthetic agent, provide reversible, broad depressor effects on the nervous system yet have a narrow margin of safety. As characterization of low‐affinity binding interactions of volatile substances is exceptionally challenging with the existing methods, none of the numerous cellular targets proposed as chief protagonists in anesthesia could yet be confirmed. The recognition that most critical functions modulated by volatile anesthetics are under the control of intracellular Ca2+ concentration, which in turn is primarily regulated by calmodulin (CaM), motivated us for characterization of the SF–CaM interaction. Solution NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) spectroscopy was used to identify SF‐binding sites using chemical shift displacement, NOESY and heteronuclear Overhauser enhancement spectroscopy (HOESY) experiments. Binding affinities were measured using ITC (isothermal titration calorimetry). SF binds to both lobes of (Ca2+)4‐CaM with low mmol/L affinity whereas no interaction was observed in the absence of Ca2+. SF does not affect the calcium binding of CaM. The structurally closely related SF and isoflurane are shown to bind to the same clefts. The SF‐binding clefts overlap with the binding sites of physiologically relevant ion channels and bioactive small molecules, but the binding affinity suggests it could only interfere with very weak CaM targets.
Synthesis and activity of isoxazoline vinyl ester pseudopeptides as proteasome inhibitors
Authors: Marastoni Mauro , Scotti Alessandra , Trapella Claudio , Ferretti Valeria , Sforza Fabio , Gavioli Riccardo
Published: February 2014

The ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) influences essential cellular functions including cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, signal transduction, antigen processing and inflammatory responses. The main proteolytic component of the UPP is the 26S proteasome, which is responsible for the turnover of many cellular proteins and represents an attractive target for the treatment of pathologies such as cancer, as well as inflammatory, immune and neurodegenerative diseases. Natural and synthetic proteasome inhibitors having different chemical structures and potency have been discovered. We report herein the synthesis, proteasome inhibition and modelling studies of novel C‐terminal isoxazoline vinyl ester pseudopeptides. Some new compounds that contain a C‐terminal extended conjugation inhibit β1 and especially β5 proteasomal catalytic subunits with IC50 values ranging from 10 to 100 µm. These results will permit further optimization based on these structural moieties to develop more active and selective molecules. Copyright © 2014 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR structures of fusion peptide from influenza hemagglutinin H3 subtype and its mutants
Authors: Du Tianpeng , Jiang Ling , Liu Maili
Published: February 2014

The influenza fusion peptide located at the N‐terminus of the hemagglutinin HA2 subunit initiates the fusing process of the viral membrane with the host cell endosomal membrane. It had been reported that the structure of a 20‐residue H3 subtype fusion peptide (H3‐HAfp20) was significantly different with that of a H1 subtype 23‐residue one (H1‐HAfp23). The sequential difference between the 12th and 15th residues of H1 and H3 subtypes could not fully explain the conformational variation. The first and last three amino acids of H3‐HAfp23 involved in formation of hydrogen bonds may play an important role in fusion process. To confirm this hypothesis, we investigate the structures of H3‐HAfp23 peptide and its mutants, G1S and G1V, in dodecylphosphatidyl choline micelles by using heteronuclear NMR technology. The results demonstrate that, similar to H1‐HAfp23 but significantly different with H3‐HAfp20, H3‐HAfp23 also has tight helical hairpin structure with the N‐ and C‐terminuses linked together because of the hydrogen bonds between Gly1 and the last three amino acids, Trp21―Tyr22―Gly23. Although the ‘hemifusion’ G1S and lethal G1V mutants have hairpin‐like helical structures, the distances between the N‐ and C‐terminuses are increased as shortage of the hydrogen bonds and the larger kink angle between the antiparallel helices. The paramagnetic ion titration experiments show that the terminuses are inserted into the dodecylphosphatidyl choline micelles used as solving media. These may imply that the tight helical hairpin structure, especially the closed conformation at terminus, plays an important role in fusion activity. Copyright © 2014 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Civic Stratification and Social Positioning: CEE Labour Migrants without a Work Permit
Authors: Snel Erik , Faber Marije , Engbersen Godfried
Published: February 2014

Civic stratification is a relatively new dimension of social inequality in contemporary Western societies. States grant, or deny, different legal statuses and related social and economic rights. European Union (EU) nationals, for instance, have full rights to settle and work in other EU countries. Most EU countries have made an exception for nationals of new member states such as Romania and Bulgaria, who joined the EU in 2007. As in the past, Romanian and Bulgarian nationals need a work permit to work in other EU countries. However, many Romanians and Bulgarians came to countries such as the Netherlands without a work permit. This study examines what this ambivalent legal position of many Romanian and Bulgarian nationals means for their social position. Using data from a survey among 654 Central and Eastern European labour migrants, we distinguish four migrant categories: (1) Romanians and Bulgarians with a work permit; (2) Romanians and Bulgarians without a work permit; (3) Romanians and Bulgarians who do not need a work permit; and (4) Polish labour migrants who hold a different legal position. We use three measures of the social position of migrants: occupational status, earned monthly incomes, and housing conditions. We find that Romanians and Bulgarians with a work permit (‘compliant migrants’) score better on all three indicators than Romanians and Bulgarians without a work permit (‘semi‐compliant migrants’). Polish labour migrants have a comparable marginal position in the Netherlands with that of many Romanians and Bulgarians without a work permit. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term optical stability of fluorescent solar concentrator plates
Authors: Slooff Lenneke H. , Bakker Nicolaas J. , Sommeling Paul M. , Büchtemann Andreas , Wedel Armin , van Sark Wilfried G. J. H. M.
Published: February 2014

Fluorescent solar concentrators offer an alternative approach for low‐cost photovoltaic energy conversion. For successful application, not only the power conversion efficiency and cost are important, but also lifetime or stability of the devices. As today's concentrator is made of polymer sheets containing organic dyes, which are known to be sensitive to degradation in the presence of light and oxygen, the lifetime under outdoor conditions has been under discussion. This paper shows that depending on the dye and the polymer sheet material, rather stable sheets can be made with < 1% loss in absorption after 6.5 years outdoor exposure.

Outdoor roof setup for lifetime testing of fluorescent flat plate concentrators.
Localization and characterization of annealing‐induced shunts in Ni‐plated monocrystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Büchler Andreas , Kluska Sven , Kasemann Martin , Breitwieser Matthias , Kwapil Wolfram , Hähnel Angelika , Blumtritt Horst , Hopman Sybille , Glatthaar Markus
Published: February 2014

The adhesion of Ni–Cu‐plated contacts requires annealing, which can lead to an electrical degradation of the solar cell. A combination of optical imaging methods and electron microscopical cross‐section analysis was used to investigate the annealing‐induced shunts on monocrystalline solar cells. The results show that Ni spikes cause the lowering of the pseudo fill factor and reveal that these nonlinear shunts show the same behavior as recombination active breakdown sites on multicrystalline silicon solar cells, including radiation of visible light while breakdown. Using reverse biased electroluminescence set‐up the shunts could be localized in top view with µm size lateral resolution. Subsequently, a cross‐section was prepared on a radiative breakdown spot. Advanced electron microscopic investigations reveal defect structures featuring nickel precipitates on the position of the light source. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Path integral Monte Carlo calculations of calcium‐doped 4He clusters
Authors: Rodríguez‐Cantano Rocío , González‐Lezana Tomás , Villarreal Pablo , López‐Durán David , Gianturco Franco A. , Delgado‐Barrio Gerardo
Published: February 2014

The energetics and structures of HeNCa clusters have been studied by means of path integral Monte Carlo calculations. Sizes ranging between N = 10 and 40 helium atoms were considered at T = 1, 1.5, and 2 K. Radial and angular distributions have been analyzed in detail to investigate the geometry of the bound systems. The comparison of the results obtained with two current He–Ca interactions (Kleinekathöfer, Chem. Phys. Lett. 2000, 324, 40, and Lovallo and Klobukowski J. Chem. Phys. 2004, 120, 246) reveals substantial differences regarding the precise location of the Ca impurity with respect to the helium droplet. Whereas the use of the first potential yields a doped cluster in which the Ca atom is solvated inside a helium cage, predictions with the much weaker HeCa potential by Lovallo and Klobukowski correspond to the formation of a dimple at the surface of the outer He atoms to host the Ca atom, a situation which is consistent with the experimental findings for the system. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of backscattered electrons in detecting and profiling voids covered by self‐supporting metallic thin film
Authors: Rajput Nitul S. , Verma H.C.
Published: February 2014

Locating and profiling porosity or cavities in materials science has been of great interest and importance. However, it has been a great challenge to detect and analyze these hidden cracks because of lack of efficient measurement technique. Artificial voids are created and covered by self‐supporting thin films in order to replicate a hidden crack situation. Subsequently, these hidden voids are located in the scanning electron microscope images and the backscattered electrons, which emerge from a deeper part of a material and depend on the material property (such as atomic number, atomic density, etc.), are shown to play the key role in locating these hidden voids. Detection has been done by collecting the backscattered electrons as well as the secondary electrons (produced by the backscattered electrons). The efficacy of the detection technique is presented in terms of variation in the grayscale intensity values of the scanning electron microscope images. The role of the primary beam energy and the beam dwell time in the detection efficiency is discussed. The successful demonstration of the imaging technique in profiling hidden voids shows a promising and efficient analytical technique in detecting and analyzing invisible cracks in materials. SCANNING 36:430–436, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.