bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Raman Spectroscopy when the Signal-to-Noise is Below the Limit of Quantitation due to Fluorescence Interference: Advantages of a Moving Window Sequentially Shifted Excitation Approach
Authors: Marshall Sarah , Cooper John B. 
Published: September 2016

Raman spectroscopy is a useful analytical tool. However, its application is often limited because shot noise from fluorescence obscures the Raman signal. In such cases, quantitative analysis is not possible when the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) drops below two. A method is described for performing quantitative Raman spectroscopy that not only removes fluorescence backgrounds, but also results in a significant improvement in the SNR. The Raman data is extracted using a moving window sequentially shifted excitation algorithm. To demonstrate the capabilities of the method, a binary mixture of two analytes at varying concentrations is quantified in the presence of a highly fluorescent dye. Linear calibration plots were constructed and validated for the binary model using individual Raman peaks with SNR ranging from 0.073–12.6; r2 values are greater than 0.96 in all cases, with all but the weakest peaks yielding values greater than 0.997. The presented method demonstrates a universal and autonomous approach for the quantitative analysis of highly fluorescent samples via Raman spectroscopy. The lower limit on the SNR ratio for quantitative Raman analysis with the described method is 0.1. In order to assess the effectiveness of the presented method, the entire set of experiments was also processed using the more common shifted excitation Raman difference spectroscopy (SERDS) approach. The advantages of the proposed method over SERDS are demonstrated for both the detection limit and the SNR of the processed spectra.
Complications of Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures in Adults
Authors: Koutserimpas Christos , Magarakis George , Kastanis Grigoris , Kontakis George , Alpantaki Kalliopi 
Published: September 2016

Calcaneal fractures are complex injuries with high complication rates and they can lead to serious disability. The proper management remains controversial and complications may occur regardless of the chosen type of treatment (operative or nonoperative). The present article reviews the studies that are related to the complications of calcaneal fractures. The incidence, the diagnosis, the prevention and the treatment of these complications were researched and analyzed, with the use of PubMed database, abstracts and original articles in English than investigate the etiology. The aim of the article is to discuss the most suitable management of the complications of calcaneal fractures and recommend a specific treatment as well as prevention methods. Levels of Evidence: Level IV
Effect of sialidase fusion protein (DAS 181) on human metapneumovirus infection of Hep-2 cells
Authors: Thammawat Sutthiwan , Sadlon Tania A , Adamson Penelope , Gordon David L 
Published: September 2016

Human metapneumovirus is an emerging cause of lower respiratory disease in infants, young children, and immunocompromised adults. We have previously demonstrated that human metapneumovirus infection is mediated by interaction of human metapneumovirus attachment (G) and/or fusion (F) proteins with cellular glycosaminoglycans. We report here the activity of an investigational sialidase fusion protein, DAS181, on human metapneumovirus infection of Hep-2 cells. These results suggest that human metapneumovirus infection may involve sialic acids, providing a new therapeutic strategy for human metapneumovirus for which there is currently no available treatment. Methods Hep-2 cells were preincubated with DAS181 or control DAS185 (a mutated sialidase) prior to inoculation with human metapneumovirus strains. Infectivity was assessed by a cell-based ELISA quantitating human metapneumovirus matrix protein. The effect of DAS181 on binding of recombinant G attachment protein was also determined. Results DAS181 blocked infection of human metapneumovirus strains A2, B1, and B2 at low concentrations. No effect of DAS185 was observed. Binding of MPV G protein to Hep-2 cells was also markedly inhibited by preincubation of cells with DAS181. Conclusions These results suggest that human metapneumovirus may utilize sialic acids as an entry cofactor. DAS181 may thus represent a new therapeutic agent useful for the treatment of human metapneumovirus.
Comparing the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in the community and in the hospital setting for urinary calculi: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Westergreen-Thorne Mathew , Lee Sook Yan , Babawale Kunle , Lovegrove Catherine , Brewer John , Shrotri Nitin 
Published: September 2016

Objective: The objective of this article is to test whether there is a significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between hospital and community-based ultrasound (US) for the detection of urinary calculi in the United Kingdom (UK). Materials and methods: A 30-month, single-blind, retrospective cohort study of all patients referred to Kent and Canterbury Hospital urology multidisciplinary meeting for suspected urinary calculi was conducted. Only those investigated with US and non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT, the gold standard) for their calculi were included. Concordance of US and NCCT was stratified by US location: i.e. either the hospital or community setting (e.g. the latter via general practitioners (GPs) or independent radiographers). Fisher’s exact test was subsequently utilised to test for any significant difference between these two patient groups. Results: Of 2464 patients referred, 257 had both ultrasound and NCCT in their diagnostic workup. Of these, 150 and 107 patients had their US performed in hospital and community settings, respectively. No significant difference in the accuracy of US was detected between the two groups for the detection of urinary calculi when compared with NCCT. Conclusion: US carried out by independent radiographers and GPs in the community is just as accurate as US carried out by hospital sonographers for the detection of urinary calculi in the UK. Greater use of community US for the diagnosis of urinary calculi may promote greater patient/GP satisfaction and reduce hospital attendance without loss of diagnostic accuracy.
GeneSCF: a real-time based functional enrichment tool with support for multiple organisms
Authors: Subhash Santhilal , Kanduri Chandrasekhar 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
Background
High-throughput technologies such as ChIP-sequencing, RNA-sequencing, DNA sequencing and quantitative metabolomics generate a huge volume of data. Researchers often rely on functional enrichment tools to interpret the biological significance of the affected genes from these high-throughput studies. However, currently available functional enrichment tools need to be updated frequently to adapt to new entries from the functional database repositories. Hence there is a need for a simplified tool that can perform functional enrichment analysis by using updated information directly from the source databases such as KEGG, Reactome or Gene Ontology etc.

Results
In this study, we focused on designing a command-line tool called GeneSCF (Gene Set Clustering based on Functional annotations), that can predict the functionally relevant biological information for a set of genes in a real-time updated manner. It is designed to handle information from more than 4000 organisms from freely available prominent functional databases like KEGG, Reactome and Gene Ontology. We successfully employed our tool on two of published datasets to predict the biologically relevant functional information. The core features of this tool were tested on Linux machines without the need for installation of more dependencies.

Conclusions
GeneSCF is more reliable compared to other enrichment tools because of its ability to use reference functional databases in real-time to perform enrichment analysis. It is an easy-to-integrate tool with other pipelines available for downstream analysis of high-throughput data. More importantly, GeneSCF can run multiple gene lists simultaneously on different organisms thereby saving time for the users. Since the tool is designed to be ready-to-use, there is no need for any complex compilation and installation procedures.
Human fetal mesenchymal stem cell secretome enhances bone consolidation in distraction osteogenesis
Authors: Xu Jia , Wang Bin , Sun Yuxin , Wu Tianyi , Liu Yang , Zhang Jinfang , Lee Wayne Yukwai , Pan Xiaohua , Chai Yimin , Li Gang 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
Background
Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is one of the most dramatic reconstructive techniques for inducing bone regeneration, but it involves an undesirably long period for bone consolidation. Developing innovative approaches to enhance bone consolidation is a burning need. Human fetal mesenchymal stem cells (hFMSCs) have been shown to express more primitive developmental genes than those of human adult mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs), which is a preferable source for cell therapy and tissue regeneration. In the present study, we investigated the immunogenicity of using the human mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) secretome on rat cells, the effects of secretome on osteogenic differentiation of rat bone marrow-derived MSCs (rBMSCs), and the potential application of hFMSC secretome in promoting bone consolidation in a rat DO model.

Methods
Secretome was collected from MSC culture and was used to treat rBMSCs. Following secretome treatment, cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase staining, Alizarin Red S staining, and mRNA expression of osteogenic differentiation-related genes (including ALP, Runx2, OCN, OPN, and Osx) in the rBMSCs were checked, as well as mixed rat peripheral blood lymphocyte reaction. hFMSC secretome was injected locally into the regenerates from the end of lengthening every 3 days in the rat DO model, until termination. The regenerates were subject to weekly x-rays, micro-computed tomography (μCT) and mechanical testing examination. The bone quality was assessed by histology and immunohistochemistry examinations.

Results
Compared to the secretome from rBMSCs and hAMSCs, hFMSC secretome had the best osteogenic induction ability and low immunogenicity. hFMSC secretome with different doses showed no effect on cell viability. hFMSC secretome at the dose of 100 μg/μl could significantly increase the expression of alkaline phosphatase and all the osteogenic marker genes, as well as the amount of calcium deposits in the rBMSCs. Finally, the local application of hFMSC secretome in distraction regenerates in a rat DO model significantly improved bone consolidation according to the results of μCT, mechanical test, and histological and immunohistochemistry analysis.

Conclusions
The current study demonstrated that hFMSC secretome promotes osteogenesis of rBMSCs and bone consolidation during DO. hFMSC secretome may be a new therapeutic strategy to enhance bone consolidation in patients undergoing DO treatment.
Decisional Regret Among Parents of Children With Cancer
Authors: Mack Jennifer W. , Cronin Angel M. , Kang Tammy I. 
Published: September 2016

Purpose Decision making is one of the ways in which parents serve as stewards of their children with cancer, but barriers to informed decision making among parents of children with cancer have been identified. We sought to evaluate the extent to which parents feel satisfied with, or regretful of, decisions made for their child’s cancer treatment and to identify factors associated with heightened regret. Methods We surveyed 346 parents of children with cancer within 12 weeks of their initial cancer treatment decision and the children’s physicians at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Our main outcome measure was heightened regret as measured by the Decisional Regret Scale. Results Sixteen percent of parents (N = 54) met our definition of heightened decisional regret. In a multivariable logistic regression model, race/ethnicity was associated with regret, with black (odds ratio [OR], 6.55; 95% CI, 2.30 to 18.7), Hispanic (OR, 2.15; 95% CI, .69 to 6.65), and other race parents (OR, 4.68; 95% CI, 1.58 to 13.8) at increased risk for regret relative to whites ( P = .001 across all categories). In contrast, parents who reported receiving high-quality information (OR, .45; 95% CI, .23 to .91; P = .03) and detailed prognostic information (OR, .48; 95% CI, .24 to .96; P = .04), who trusted the oncologist completely (OR, .32; 95% CI, .17 to .63; P = .001), and who held their ideal role in decision making (OR, .49; 95% CI, .25 to .95; P = .04) were less likely to experience regret. Conclusion Although many parents are satisfied with decisions made for their children with cancer, racial and ethnic minority parents are at heightened risk for regret. Clinicians may be able to reduce this risk by providing high-quality information, including prognostic information, involving parents in decision making in the ways they wish, and serving as trusted providers.
Métodos de seleção granulométrica com foco na resistência à deformação permanente
Authors: Ferreira Jorge Luis Santos , Soares Jorge Barbosa , Bastos Juceline Batista dos Santos 
Published: September 2016

A granulometria de uma mistura asfáltica tem papel relevante em sua resistência à deformação permanente. Resultados práticos mostram que a simples obediência às faixas do DNIT não garantem resistência a tal defeito. Neste trabalho, avalia-se e compara-se os métodos Bailey e Faixa de Agregados Dominantes (FAD). Ambos buscam fornecer granulometrias com intertravamento adequado para resistir à deformação permanente. Utilizou-se 8 misturas asfálticas produzidas com materiais de diferentes regiões do Brasil. Os resultados mostram que o método FAD pode ser utilizado em fase de projeto para estimar o desempenho de campo das misturas asfálticas quanto ao defeito em questão baseando-se em um único parâmetro granulométrico (porosidade FAD). Por outro lado, dos parâmetros do método Bailey (AG, GAM e FAM), apenas os valores de AG refletem o comportamento mecânico das misturas asfálticas. Os resultados de laboratório e de campo indicam o potencial para aplicação prática do método FAD. MÉTODOS DE SELEÇÃO GRANULOMÉTRICA COM FOCO NA RESISTÊNCIA À DEFORMAÇÃO PERMANENTE
Hybrid BD / GPS Positioning for Deformation Monitoring Under Denied Environments
Authors: Peng Zhenzhong , Li Qianxia , Xia Linyuan 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
In the era of multiple satellite navigation and positioning, there are still many remained issues to be tackled in order to satisfy varied applications for various sectors. These include availability, accuracy, integrity, vulnerability and others. To explore feasibility of deformation monitoring under dam and steep slope environments, we investigated features of hybrid BD / GPS positioning and monitoring performance. Results indicate that hybrid satellites can further facilitate precise positioning for deformation monitoring on restricted regions. A static network in near real time mode is designed to exhibit essential sensitivity for deformation monitoring under different network connectivity. Analysis shows that under given network design matrix, contributions from hybrid BD / GPS have enhanced network sensitivity and ensured monitoring performance under challenged scenarios. Related tests combining with application to stringent dam monitoring have been conducted to exemplify sensitivity changes along vital engineering directions and optimal schemes for network configuration.
Vikings or Normans? The Radicalism of Naturalized Metaphysics
Authors: Ross Don 
Published: September 2016

AbstractThe paper investigates the extent to which naturalized metaphysics, as proposed and characterized by Ladyman and Ross (2007.Every Thing Must Go: Metaphysics Naturalized. Oxford: Oxford University Press) among others, suggests a radical break with the conceptual space of pre-naturalized metaphysics. The investigation compares Ladyman and Ross’s methodology for metaphysics with that recently advocated by Steven French (2014.The Structure of the World: Metaphysics and Representation. Oxford: Oxford University Press). The comparison promises to be revealing because French shares Ladyman and Ross’s commitment to build a new metaphysics on the basis of a particular thesis developed in the philosophy of science literature, ontic structural realism (OSR). Thus differences between Ladyman and Ross’s and French’s approaches to metaphysics can be exhibited cleanly, without having to be pried apart from different respective views about the ontology implied by scientific theory and practice.
Effect of lead salts on phase, morphologies and photoluminescence of nanocrystalline PbMoO4 and PbWO4 synthesized by microwave radiation
Authors: Phuruangrat Anukorn , Kuntalue Budsabong , Artkla Surachai , Promnopas Surin , Promnopas Wonchai , Thongtem Somchai , Thongtem Titipun 
Published: September 2016

AbstractPbMoO4 and PbWO4 were successfully synthesized by microwave radiation using different lead salts (acetate, chloride, nitrate and sulfate) and Na2MO4 (M = Mo, W) in propylene glycol. The products were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM, TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. In this research, morphologies, crystallization and photoluminescence of the products were influenced by the kinetics of anions, including the detection of M–O (M = Mo, W) stretching modes in the (MO4)2− tetrahedrons. Photoluminescence of PbMoO4 synthesized from Pb(NO3)2 and of PbWO4 synthesized from PbCl2 showed the strongest blue emission due to the electronic diffusion in tetrahedrons at room temperature.
Interrelations of codes in human semiotic systems
Authors: Somov Georgij Yu. 
Published: September 2016

AbstractCodes can be viewed as mechanisms that enable relations of signs and their components, i.e., semiosis is actualized. The combinations of these relations produce new relations as new codes are building over other codes. Structures appear in the mechanisms of codes. Hence, codes can be described as transformations of structures from some material systems into others. Structures belong to different carriers, but exist in codes in their “pure” form. Building of codes over other codes fosters their regulation. There are several ways to add codes: by types of transformation of structures involved in codes; by dimensions of pragmatics, semantics, and syntactics; through “abstract universals versus precise forms” relations; and by regulation levels in the “organism – environment” relations. More complicated codes are formed based on the interrelations of codes built over. These interrelations are presented as a conceptual chart, which reflects the way typical semiotic formations emerge in mind based on the interrelations of various codes. It also presents the related sociocultural semiotic systemities: motives, needs, aspirations, moral values, purposes, language-like systemities, fundamental frames, patterns of culture, etc.
Cost-Effective Precracking of Charpy V-Notch Specimens for Fracture-Toughness Testing Using a Piezoelectric Actuator
Authors: Schuurmans J. , Scibetta M. 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
The evolution in the ASTM standards toward more stringent precracking requirements and the large amount of fracture-toughness tests annually performed at SCK•CEN, were the motivations to search for novel techniques to gain more control over the precracking process and to reduce the precracking cost. A piezoelectric actuator was identified as an excellent candidate for this purpose. A dedicated precracking device for Charpy V-notch specimens based on a piezoelectric actuator was developed. The high degree of automation allows full control over the precracking process in agreement with current or future standards. The low power consumption, high precracking frequency, low maintenance, and minimum operator intervention significantly reduce the precracking cost. A second piezo-precracking device was installed in a hot cell. An extensive validation demonstrated that the SCK•CEN Piezomatic is capable of producing a fatigue crack in Charpy V-notch specimens (standard, reconstituted, miniaturized, irradiated) in a fast, controllable, and accurate way. Both machines have been providing a reliable service for several years.
Evaluation of the Bearing Strength of Single-Shear Bolted Joint Composite Laminate Structures and Research on the Test Fixture
Authors: Liu C. , Zhou Z. , Wang X. , Zhang B. 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
In this study, the test on the bearing strength of the single-shear bolted joint composite laminate structure was firstly conducted. Then a macro-micro multi-scale numerical model was developed and implemented using the general-purpose finite element code ABAQUS. In this numerical model, the complex contact interactions such as the contact at the bolt/hole and the contact at the specimen/fixture were both considered. In addition, the progressive damage and the material property degradation were also included in the numerical model. The numerical simulation results agree well with the experimental results. Based on the numerical model, the effect of the test fixture on the testing results was evaluated further. It is shown that the incomplete contact between the test fixture and the specimen and the lack of the lateral constraint on the specimen will affect the measured bearing strength of the single-shear bolted joint composite laminate structure. In addition, the lower support stiffness of the test fixture will also affect the measured stiffness of the bolted joint composite laminate structure. According to the numerical evaluation results, the test fixture was improved. Finally, the bearing strength of the single-shear bolted joint composite laminate structure was tested again using the improved test fixture. It was shown that the new testing results are improved comparing with the initial testing results.
Bond Requirements on State-Owned Forest Land in the Western United States
Authors: Vaughan D. , Mackes K. , Eckhoff M. 
Published: September 2016

Abstract
State forestry agencies typically require forestry contractors to furnish several types of bonds before beginning work on state land. Required bonds often include: performance bonds that help ensure contract provisions are followed satisfactorily, bid bonds that guarantee follow-through by the winning contractor, and payment bonds that guarantee payment for timber before cutting. Much variety exists both in the types of bonds that are required and the form of payment that state forestry agencies will accept. However, no single source for this information exists in the literature. Such a resource can help assist state foresters when determining bond requirements for their own state, as well as providing a comparison with other state policies. To meet this need, a literature review and telephone survey of state forestry agencies was conducted. The literature review revealed varying statutory requirements and an absence of research on bonding practices in the forestry industry. Survey respondents reported performance bond requirements, when in effect, ranging from 5 % to 100 % of the contract price in service contracts, and from 5 % to 20 % in timber sale contracts. Bid guarantees, if required by state agencies, range from 2 % to 10 % of the contract price. The unique conditions involved in forest management require flexibility when it comes to bonding policies to avoid burdening agencies and contractors with unnecessary constraints.