bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carboxyfullerene neuroprotection postinjury in Parkinsonian nonhuman primates
Authors: Dugan Laura L. , Tian LinLin , Quick Kevin L. , Hardt Josh I. , Karimi Morvarid , Brown Chris , Loftin Susan , Flores Hugh , Moerlein Stephen M. , Polich John , Tabbal Samer D. , Mink Jonathan W. , Perlmutter Joel S.
Published: July 2014

Objective

We evaluated the efficacy of the potent antioxidant C3 to salvage nigrostriatal neuronal function after 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) exposure in nonhuman primates. C3 is a first‐in‐class functionalized water‐soluble fullerene that reduces oxygen radical species associated with neurodegeneration in in vitro studies. However, C3 has not been evaluated as a neuroprotective agent in a Parkinson model in vivo.

Methods

Macaque fascicularis monkeys were used in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study design. MPTP‐lesioned primates were given systemic C3 (n = 8) or placebo (n = 7) for 2 months starting 1 week after MPTP. Outcomes included in vivo behavioral measures of motor parkinsonism using a validated nonhuman primate rating scale, kinematic analyses of peak upper extremity velocity, positron emission tomography imaging of 6‐[18F]fluorodopa (FD; reflects dopa decarboxylase) and [11C]dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ; reflects vesicular monoamine transporter type 2), ex vivo quantification of striatal dopamine, and stereologic counts of tyrosine hydroxylase–immunostained neurons in substantia nigra.

Results

After 2 months, C3‐treated monkeys had significantly improved parkinsonian motor ratings, greater striatal FD and DTBZ uptake, and higher striatal dopamine levels. None of the C3‐treated animals developed any toxicity.

Interpretation

Systemic treatment with C3 reduced striatal injury and improved motor function despite administration after the MPTP injury process had begun. These data strongly support further development of C3 as a promising therapeutic agent for Parkinson disease. Ann Neurol 2014;76:393–402
Synthesis and drug‐release studies of low‐fouling zwitterionic hydrogels with enhanced mechanical strength
Authors: Zeng Renchang , Cheng Jiang , Xu Shouping , Liu Qin , Wen Xiufang , Pi Pihui
Published: July 2014

Reversible addition–fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization was introduced to prepare a series of zwitterionic poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate)‐g‐poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) (PSBMA) hydrogels (HSGs) with different monomer feed ratios. Compared with PSBMA hydrogels, these hydrogels exhibited enhanced mechanical strengths. Then, the HSGs were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and swelling measurements. We found that the equilibrium swelling ratios, mechanical strengths, and drug‐release behaviors were significantly affected by the feed ratios of the gels. The hydrophilic tetracycline hydrochloride release results suggest that the hydrophilic drug release from the HSGs could be prolonged by the variation of the hydroxyethyl methacrylate amount in the gel networks. The bovine serum albumin adsorption data showed that the zwitterionic HSG with 18.2 wt % sulfobetaine methacrylate exhibited good protein‐resistance properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41041.
New Trifluoromethylated Derivatives of Metal Nitride Clusterfullerenes: Sc3N@Ih‐C80(CF3)14 and Sc3N@D5h‐C80(CF3)16
Authors: Wei Tao , Tamm Nadezhda B. , Yang Shangfeng , Troyanov Sergey I.
Published: July 2014

Trifluoromethylated derivatives of Sc3N@Ih‐C80 and Sc3N@D5h‐C80 were synthesized by the reaction with CF3I at 440 °C. HPLC separation of the mixture of Sc3N@D5h‐C80(CF3)n derivatives resulted in isolation and X‐ray structure determination of Sc3N@D5h‐C80(CF3)16, which represents a precursor of the known Sc3N@D5h‐C80(CF3)18. Among the CF3 derivatives of Sc3N@Ih‐C80, two new isomers of Sc3N@Ih‐C80(CF3)14 (Sc‐14‐VI and Sc‐14‐VII) were isolated by HPLC, and their molecular structures were determined by X‐ray diffraction, thus enabling a comprehensive comparison of altogether seven isomers. Two types of addition patterns with different orientations of the Sc3N cluster relative to the Ih‐C80 fullerene cage were established. In particular, Sc‐14‐VII represents a direct precursor of the known Sc3N@Ih‐C80(CF3)16‐II. All molecular structures exhibit an ordered position of a Sc3N cluster inside the fullerene C80 cage.
Unique Properties of 2 D Layered Titanate Nanosheets as a Building Block for the Optimization of the Photocatalytic Activity and Photostability of TiO2‐Based Nanohybrids
Authors: Jo Yun Kyung , Kim In Young , Gunjakar Jayavant L. , Lee Jang Mee , Lee Nam‐Suk , Lee Sang‐Hyup , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: July 2014

In comparison with the hybridization with 0D TiO2 nanoparticle, 2D layered TiO2 nanosheets are much more effective in the improvement of the photocatalytic activity and photostability of semiconducting compounds. The 2D TiO2–Ag3PO4 nanohybrid described in this paper shows a greater decrease in the electron‐hole recombination upon hybridization and a stronger chemical interaction between the components than the 0D homologue. This result confirms the benefits of 2D layered TiO2 nanosheets as a building block for efficient hybrid‐type photocatalyst materials.
Antibiotic Pollution in the Environment: A Review
Authors: Gothwal Ritu , Shashidhar Thhatikkonda
Published: July 2014

Antibiotics have been extensively and effectively used in human and veterinary medicines. Their benefits have been recognized in agriculture, aquaculture, bee‐keeping, and livestock as growth promoters. This paper collects information from several investigations on the sources and occurrences of antibiotics in natural and artificial environmental systems. Several antibiotics were reported for their occurrences in water resources, effluent from industries, sludge, manure, soil, plants, and organisms across the globe. Sorption, photo‐degradation, biodegradation, and oxidation were recognized as the main elimination pathways for these compounds and have been discussed in detail. The adverse effects of the pollutants were also highlighted and necessary suggestions were made for effective monitoring and mitigating pollution, which may provide the scope for future research.
The Impact of Cyclopropane Configuration on the Biological Activity of Cyclopropyl‐Epothilones
Authors: Gaugaz Fabienne Z. , Redondo‐Horcajo Mariano , Barasoain Isabel , Díaz J. Fernando , Cobos‐Correa Amanda , Kaufmann Markus , Altmann Karl‐Heinz
Published: July 2014

Two cis‐12,13‐cyclopropyl‐epothilone B variants have been synthesized, differing only in the configuration of the stereocenters at C12 and C13. The syntheses were based on a common allylic alcohol intermediate that was converted into the corresponding diastereomeric hydroxymethyl‐cyclopropanes by means of stereoselective Charette cyclopropanations. Macrocyclizations were accomplished through ring‐closing metathesis (RCM). Substantial differences between the two compounds were found with regard to microtubule binding affinity, antiproliferative activity and their effects on the cellular microtubule network. While the analogue with the cyclopropane moiety oriented in a corresponding way to the epoxide configuration in natural epothilones was almost equipotent with epothilone A, the other was significantly less active. Based on these findings, natural epothilone‐like activity of cis‐fused 12,13‐cyclopropyl‐epothilone analogues is tightly linked to the natural orientation of the cyclopropane moiety.
Molecular Recognition of Two 2,4‐syn‐Functionalized (S)‐Glutamate Analogues by the Kainate Receptor GluK3 Ligand Binding Domain
Authors: Venskutonytė Raminta , Larsen Anja P. , Frydenvang Karla , Gajhede Michael , Sagot Emmanuelle , Assaf Zeinab , Gefflaut Thierry , Pickering Darryl S. , Bunch Lennart , Kastrup Jette S.
Published: July 2014

The kainate receptors are the least studied subfamily of ionotropic glutamate receptors. These receptors are thought to have a neuromodulatory role and have been associated with a variety of disorders in the central nervous system. This makes kainate receptors interesting potential drug targets. Today, structures of the ligand binding domain (LBD) of the kainate receptor GluK3 are only known in complex with the endogenous agonist glutamate, the natural product kainate, and two synthetic agonists. Herein we report structures of GluK3 LBD in complex with two 2,4‐syn‐functionalized (S)‐glutamate analogues to investigate their structural potential as chemical scaffolds. Similar binding affinities at GluK3 were determined for the 2‐(methylcarbamoyl)ethyl analogue (Ki=4.0 μM) and the 2‐(methoxycarbonyl)ethyl analogue (Ki=1.7 μM), in agreement with the similar positioning of the compounds within the binding pocket. As the binding affinity is similar to that of glutamate, this type of Cγ substituent could be used as a scaffold for introduction of even larger substituents reaching into unexplored binding site regions to achieve subtype selectivity.
Global C2‐Estimates for Convex Solutions of Curvature Equations
Authors: Guan Pengfei , Ren Changyu , Wang Zhizhang
Published: July 2014

We establish a C2 a priori estimate for convex hypersurfaces whose principal curvatures κ=(κ1,…, κn) satisfy σk(κ(X))=f(X,ν(X)), the Weingarten curvature equation. We also obtain such an estimate for admissible 2‐convex hypersurfaces in the case k=2. Our estimates resolve a longstanding problem in geometric fully nonlinear elliptic equations.© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrocatalysis of Water Oxidation by H2O‐Capped Iridium‐Oxide Nanoparticles Electrodeposited on Spectroscopic Graphite
Authors: Mirbagheri Naghmehalsadat , Chevallier Jacques , Kibsgaard Jakob , Besenbacher Flemming , Ferapontova Elena E.
Published: July 2014

Electrocatalysis of water oxidation by 1.54 nm IrOx nanoparticles (NPs) immobilized on spectroscopic graphite electrodes was demonstrated to proceed with a higher efficiency than on all other, hitherto reported, electrode supports. IrOx NPs were electrodeposited on the graphite surface, and their electrocatalytic activity for water oxidation was correlated with the surface concentrations of different redox states of IrOx as a function of the deposition time and potential. Under optimal conditions, the overpotential of the reaction was reduced to 0.21 V and the electrocatalytic current density was 43 mA cm−2 at 1 V versus Ag/AgCl (3 M KCl) and pH 7. These results beneficially compete with previously reported electrocatalytic oxidations of water by IrOx NPs electrodeposited onto glassy carbon and indium tin oxide electrodes and provide the basis for the further development of efficient IrOx NP‐based electrocatalysts immobilized on high‐surface‐area carbon electrode materials.
Laser Mass Spectrometry with Circularly Polarized Light: Circular Dichroism of Cold Molecules in a Supersonic Gas Beam
Authors: Titze Katharina , Zollitsch Tilo , Heiz Ulrich , Boesl Ulrich
Published: July 2014

An experiment on chiral molecules that combines circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, mass‐selective detection by laser mass spectrometry (MS), and cooling of molecules by using a supersonic beam is presented. The combination of the former two techniques (CD–laser‐MS) is a new method to investigate chiral molecules and is now used by several research groups. Cooling in a supersonic beam supplies a substantial increase in spectroscopic resolution, a feature that has not yet been used in CD spectroscopy. In the experiments reported herein, a large variation in the electronic CD of carbonyl 3‐methylcyclopentanone was observed depending on the excited vibrational modes in the n→π* transition. This finding should be of interest for the detection of chiral molecules and for the theoretical understanding of the CD of vibronic bands. It is expected that this effect will show up in other chiral carbonyls because the n→π* transition is typical for the carbonyl group.
Effects of Information Organization and Presentation on Human Performance in Simulated Main Control Room Procedure Tasks
Authors: Ding Xuansheng , Li Zhizhong , Dong Xiaolu , Gao Qin , Song Fei , Wang Qiuyu
Published: July 2014

The organization and presentation of information are critical in designing a display for industrial safety‐critical systems. How they affect human performance is not fully studied yet. Functional displays are newly proposed for nuclear power plant (NPP) main control rooms. The effect of functional organization and the choice of information presentation styles need to be examined. This study aims to explore the effects of information organization (process display vs. functional display), parameter presentation (text vs. bar chart), and component presentation (mimic vs. simplified graph) for better understanding the pros and cons of functional displays designed following function based task analysis (FBTA). Performance data were collected from simulated procedure tasks using eight (2 × 2 × 2) displays. The results indicate that the functional display based on FBTA was more effective than the process display, and this could be mainly attributed to its functional information organization rather than to its presentation styles of parameters and components.
An examination of geochemical modelling approaches to tracing sediment sources incorporating distribution mixing and elemental correlations
Authors: Laceby J. Patrick , Olley Jon
Published: July 2014

The identification of sediment sources is fundamental to the management of increasingly scarce water resources. Tracing the origin of sediment with elemental geochemistry is a well‐established approach to determining sediment provenance. Fundamental to the confident apportionment of sediment to their lithogenic sources is the modelling process. Recent approaches have incorporated distributions throughout the modelling process including source contribution terms for two end‐member sources. The shift from modelling source samples to modelling samples drawn from distributions has removed relationships, including potential correlations between elemental concentrations, from the modelling process. Here, we present a novel modelling approach that re‐incorporates correlations between elemental concentrations and models distributions for source contribution terms for multiple source end members. Artificial mixtures, based on catchment sources samples, were created to test the accuracy of this correlated distribution model and also examine modelling approaches used in the literature. The most accurate model incorporates correlations between elements, uses the absolute mixing model difference and does not use any weighting. This model was then applied to identify the sources of sediment in three South East Queensland catchments and demonstrated that Quaternary Alluvium is the most dominant source of sediment in these catchments (μ 44%, σ 12%). This study demonstrates that it is important to understand how different weightings may impact modelling results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rumination and Emotions in Nonsuicidal Self‐Injury and Eating Disorder Behaviors: A Preliminary Test of the Emotional Cascade Model
Authors: Arbuthnott Alexis E. , Lewis Stephen P. , Bailey Heidi N.
Published: July 2014

Objective

This study examined relations between repeated rumination trials and emotions in nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) and eating disorder behaviors (EDBs) within the context of the emotional cascade model (Selby, Anestis, & Joiner, ).

Method

Rumination was repeatedly induced in 342 university students (79.2% female, Mage = 18.61, standard error = .08); negative and positive emotions were reported after each rumination trial. Repeated measures analyses of variance were used to examine the relations between NSSI and EDB history and changes in emotions.

Results

NSSI history associated with greater initial increases in negative emotions, whereas EDB history associated with greater initial decreases in positive emotions. Baseline negative emotional states and trait emotion regulation mediated the relation between NSSI/EDB history and emotional states after rumination.

Conclusion

Although NSSI and EDBs share similarities in emotion dysregulation, differences also exist. Both emotion dysregulation and maladaptive cognitive processes should be targeted in treatment for NSSI and EDBs.
In situ study of stones adorning a silver Torah shield using portable Raman spectrometers
Authors: Osterrothová Kateřina , Minaříková Laura , Culka Adam , Kuntoš Jaroslav , Jehlička Jan
Published: July 2014

A silver Torah shield fitted with a set of precious stones and glass imitations crafted in Poland in the first half of the 19th century was investigated using two of the currently distributed portable and relatively low‐cost Raman spectrometers in situ at the Jewish Museum in Prague. Observed Raman peaks corresponded well (+/− 3 cm−1) to the reference values. The hand‐held instruments operated at 785‐ and 532‐nm laser excitations showed good performance in the fast and unambiguous identification of nearly 60 stones which were fitted on the shield: one blue aquamarine, three purple amethysts, thirteen red garnets (all classified as high‐percentage almandines), three white pearls, fifteen pieces of red coral and five chalcedonies (one white and four red). All of the other stones were identified as colored glass. The rather chaotic mixture of stones of various colors, cuts and sizes and the total volume of imitation glass support the theory that the mounted stones were gathered from Jewish households and donated for the adornment of the shield. The common portable Raman instruments represent an ideal tool for the quick and accurate identification of gemstones mounted in historical artifacts in situ in the framework of museum or collection sites in a non‐destructive way. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Orthotopic Wilms tumor xenografts derived from cell lines reflect limited aspects of tumor morphology and clinical characteristics
Authors: Mengelbier Linda Holmquist , Bexell Daniel , Sehic Daniel , Ciornei Cristina D. , Gisselsson David
Published: July 2014

Background

Wilms tumor (WT) is a pediatric tumor of the kidney, the treatment of which includes heavy chemotherapy. Affected children would likely benefit from more targeted therapies with limited side effects. Establishment of relevant orthotopic WT xenografts is important to better understand mechanisms of WT growth and for preclinical drug testing.

Procedure

Here we established and characterized orthotopic xenografts from WT cell lines WiT49, CCG‐99‐11, and WT‐CLS1 to ascertain in what aspects each of them recapitulated WT histology, immunophenotype, invasion, and metastatic spread.

Results

WiT49 xenografts recapitulated near triphasic WTs with clear WT1 staining and anaplastic features, but with tumor restricted to the kidney. On the contrary both CCG‐99‐11 and WT‐CLS1 xenografts conveyed metastatic disease. CCG‐99‐11 showed a blastemal phenotype whereas WT‐CLS1 xenografts did not properly reflect any specific WT subtype.

Conclusions

From the three tested cell lines, orthotopic WiT49 xenografts best reflect the triphasic pattern of classical WT. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1949–1954. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Significance of clinical and biologic features in Stage 3 neuroblastoma: A report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group project
Authors: Meany Holly J. , London Wendy B. , Ambros Peter F. , Matthay Katherine K. , Monclair Tom , Simon Thorsten , Garaventa Alberto , Berthold Frank , Nakagawara Akira , Cohn Susan L. , Pearson Andrew D.J. , Park Julie R.
Published: July 2014

Background

International Neuroblastoma Staging System (INSS) Stage 3 neuroblastoma is a heterogeneous disease. Data from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) database were analyzed to define patient and tumor characteristics predictive of outcome.

Procedure

Of 8,800 patients in the INRG database, 1,483 with INSS Stage 3 neuroblastoma and complete follow‐up data were analyzed. Secondary analysis was performed in 1,013 patients (68%) with MYCN‐non‐amplified (NA) tumors. Significant prognostic factors were identified via log‐rank test comparisons of survival curves. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify factors independently predictive of event‐free survival (EFS).

Results

Age at diagnosis (P < 0.0001), tumor MYCN status (P < 0.0001), and poorly differentiating/undifferentiated histology (P = 0.03) were independent predictors of EFS. Compared to other Stage 3 subgroups, outcome was inferior for patients ≥547 days with MYCN‐NA neuroblastoma (P < 0.0001), and within this cohort, serum ferritin ≥96 ng/ml was associated with inferior EFS (P = 0.02). For patients <547 days of age with MYCN‐NA tumors, serum ferritin levels were prognostic of overall survival (OS) (P = 0.04) and chromosome 11q aberration was prognostic of EFS (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Among patients with INSS Stage 3 neuroblastoma patients, age at diagnosis, MYCN status and histology predict outcome. Patients <547 days of age with MYCN‐NA tumors that lack chromosome 11q aberrations or those with serum ferritin <96 ng/ml have excellent prognosis and should be considered for therapy reduction. Prospective clinical trials are needed to identify optimal therapy for those patients ≥547 days of age with undifferentiated histology or elevated serum ferritin. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1932–1939. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigating mechanisms behind offset analgesia: Effect on spinal responses during thermal stimulation
Authors: Larsen Thomas Kronborg , Egmose Andreas , Enggaard Marianne , Hugosdóttir Rósa , Arguissain Federico , Manresa José Biurrun , Mørch Carsten Dahl
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Offset analgesia (OA) is a temporal perceptual mechanism in which subjective pain ratings decrease disproportionally when a noxious heat stimulus is decreased by 1–3 ◦C. Whether OA is a peripheral, spinal or supraspinal mechanism remains unknown. The stimulation of afferent nociceptors in the foot, leads to a spinal nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) which is mediated through the wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons and therefore under descending control. We hypothesized that OA affects the spinal nociceptive neurons resulting in an attenuation of the NWR during OA.

Methods

Four heat stimulations profiles were applied to the lower legs divided into four segments of 5 s, 5 s, 5 s, and 15 s, respectively: Offset Analgesia Trial (OAT) (48, 49, 48, 48 ◦C), Offset Baseline Trial (OBT) (48, 49, 32, 32 ◦C), Constant Heat Trial (CHT) (4 × 48 ◦C), and Baseline Trial (BT) (4 × 32 ◦C). Subjects rated the pain intensity continuously using a visual analog scale (VAS). NWR were evoked by electrical stimulation of the plantar foot and assessed once during each segment by recording EMG from the tibialis anterior muscle.

Results

VAS-ratings were lower during the third period of OAT compared to CHT (p < 0.001). However, there was no difference (p > 0.05) comparing the NWR size between OAT, OBT, CHT, and BT throughout the time periods.

Conclusions

The NWR was not affected by OA suggesting that spinal WDR plays a limited role in the OA mechanism. Whether peripheral- or supraspinal mechanisms are responsible the OA phenomenon remains unknown.
Inflammation-reactive astrocytes can be restored with a three drug combination
Authors: Hansson E. , Block L. , Björklund U. , Biber B.
Published: July 2014

Aims

In inflammation-reactive astrocytes the cell parameters, Ca2+ signalling, Na+ transporters, cytoskeleton, and release of proinflammatory cytokines are affected. We want to re-establish these parameters with agents, which might have a potential to restore the cells back to a normal non-inflammatory level.

Methods

Astrocytes in primary cultures were incubated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 ng/ml) for 24 h to become inflammation-reactive. Different parameters were analysed to verify this inflammation: Ca2+ signalling, Na+/K+-ATPase expression, actin filament organization, and interleukin-1beta release (IL-1β).

Results

We have used an opioid agonist, endomorphin-1, that stimulates the Gi/o protein of the μ-opioid receptor, an opioid antagonist, naloxone, that inhibits the Gs protein of the μ-opioid receptor in ultralow concentrations, and an anti-epileptic agent, levetiracetam, that counteracts the release of IL-1β. The combination of these three agents managed to activate the Gi/o protein and Na+/K+-ATPase activity, inhibit the Gs protein, and decrease the release of IL-1β. The disorganized actin filaments were restored.

Conclusions

The findings that the important cell parameters in astrocytes were restored back to their normal non-inflammatory state after the cells were treated with the inflammatory agent LPS could be of clinical significance. It may be useful for the treatment of neuroinflammation and also maybe of long-term pain. The astrocyte networks play a significant role and therefore a well-working intercellular Ca2+ signalling is of utmost importance.

Significance

These findings put new potential drug regimens towards treatment of neuroinflammation and long-term pain into focus.
Experiences with an adaptive design for a dose-finding study in osteoarthritis
Authors: Miller F. , Björnsson M. , Svensson O. , Karlsten R.
Published: July 2014

Aims

Many new potential medicines fail in early clinical development. AZD1386 is a TRPV1 antagonist and was developed for treatment of osteoarthritis pain at AstraZeneca. Following preclinical studies to characterize the compound, translational studies and first time in man studies the challenge is great to select the right doses and study population for the first clinical studies on efficacy in phase II of the drug development process.

Methods

Different design alternatives in the planning of the dose-finding study for AZD1386 in OA were analysed with regard to statistical considerations, timelines and costs for the different options.

Results

Based on datasimulations and cost/benefit analysis a 4 week study with adaptive design with interim analysis at 2 weeks for possible dose adjustment or futility stop was chosen. The study was initiated with AZD1386 at to doses 30 and 90 mg and placebo. Based on the fact that the one-sided p-value for the primary analysis (comparison of 90 mg versus placebo) was 0.2891 and larger than 0.2, the data monitoring committee decided that the study was to be stopped after the interim analysis due to lack of efficacy.

Conclusions

The chosen adaptive design in this Phase IIa/b study enabled an early futility stop. This meant several advantages. Further exposure of patients of a non-efficacious drug could be stopped and resources could be re-allocated earlier as well as monetary savings.
Chronic whiplash, pain and pain tolerance
Authors: Myrtveit Solbjørg Makalani , Skogen Jens Christoffer , Sivertsen Børge , Steingrímsdóttir Ólöf Anna , Stubhaug Audun , Nielsen Christopher Sivert
Published: July 2014

Aim

Among individuals who experience whiplash accidents, around 20% develop chronic pain. We aimed to compare number of painful locations and pain intensity between individuals with chronic whiplash and individuals with other chronic pain, and to investigate whether differences could be explained by pain tolerance.

Methods

Employing data from the sixth wave of the Tromsø Study, individuals reporting whiplash were compared to individuals with other chronic pain. Number of pain locations was compared using Poisson regression, pain intensity using linear regression. Pain tolerance (cold-pressor test) was compared using cox regression; one model compared individuals with whiplash to those with other chronic pain, another model compared the two groups with chronic pain to pain-free controls. In order to investigate whether pain tolerance could account for differences in pain, the regression models were adjusted for time-till-failure in the cold-pressor test.

Results

Individuals with whiplash reported a higher number of painful locations (IRR = 5.23, 95%CI: 4.93–5.53 versus IRR = 3.57, 95%CI: 3.50–3.65) and higher pain intensity (mean: 7.80, 95%CI: 7.58–8.02 versus mean: 7.14, 95%CI: 7.08–7.21) than individuals with other chronic pain. Pain tolerance did not differ between these two groups, but compared to pain-free controls individuals in both groups had reduced pain tolerance.

Conclusions

Individuals with chronic whiplash had reduced pain tolerance compared to individuals without chronic pain, but not compared to individuals with other chronic pain. Reduced pain tolerance can account for some of the increased pain reported by individuals with chronic whiplash compared to controls but not compared to individuals with other chronic pain.
Quality pain management in the hospital setting—A concept evaluation
Authors: Zoëga S. , Gunnarsdóttir S. , Gordon D.B.
Published: July 2014

Aims

To gain an understanding of the concept of quality pain management (QPM) in the hospital setting, and to define the concept.

Methods

A concept evaluation based on the method by Morse and colleagues was done. The literature was searched according to selected key words in five databases. Over 5000 articles were found but data were limited to 37 articles directly related to both quality and pain management in adults in the hospital setting, and published in peer-reviewed journals or by an official organization. Data were extracted from these articles and then synthesized according to definition, characteristics, boundaries, preconditions, and outcomes of QPM.

Results

QPM is a multidimensional concept that is commonly used but remains vaguely defined. A common understanding of the concept is nonetheless evident in the literature. QPM refers to the structure, process, and outcomes of care rooted in equitable, effective, patient-centered, safe, and efficient services. The structure encompasses competent staff and staff accountability, organizationally supported evidence-based policies, and access to interprofessional and specialized care. The process consists of screening, assessing and reassessing pain, individualized and evidence-based treatment, communication of pain and pain treatment, and patient and family education. Finally, outcomes include increase in patient satisfaction, reduced pain severity, less functional interferences, and decrease in both prevalence and severity of adverse effects from pain or its treatment.

Conclusions

QPM is a complex concept that despite common use lacks a clear definition. The relationship between structure, process, and outcome needs to be studied in order to improve QPM. The conceptual model put forward in this study needs to be further refined and tested.
Aligning conservation and research priorities for proactive species and habitat management: the case of dugongsDugong dugonin Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Ponnampalam Louisa S. , Fairul Izmal J. H. , Adulyanukosol Kanjana , Ooi Jillian L. S. , Reynolds John E.
Published: July 2014

Conservation efforts use scientific data to provide an adaptive framework wherein habitat and wildlife sustainability can co-exist with human activities. Good science informs decision-makers and facilitates the development of successful conservation approaches. However, conservation concerns for the dugongDugong dugonin South-east Asia are sufficiently urgent that action must be taken quickly, even though science has not provided complete answers to critical questions. In Johor, Malaysia, aerial surveys were conducted to assess dugong numbers, dugong high-use areas and overlap of dugong sightings with areas of seagrass. Dugong distribution included existing marine parks and locations where known conservation threats exist. We conclude that the Johor islands may represent a significant congregation site for dugongs in Peninsular Malaysia, with as many as 20 dugongs recorded in a single day. The existence of a marine park where the dugong sightings were most prominent is encouraging but only 38% of those sightings fell within the boundaries of the park. Anthropogenic threats need to be assessed and addressed prior to complex development activities such as dredging and coastal reclamation for tourism development in this critical area. We use this case to explore the concept of advancing species conservation through focused research and management, particularly where uncertainties exist because data are scarce.
Resistance to niclosamide in Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum: should we be worried?
Authors: DAI JIAN-RONG , LI YOU-ZI , WANG WEI , XING YUN-TIAN , QU GUO-LI , LIANG YOU-SHENG
Published: July 2014

As the currently only available molluscicide, niclosamide has been widely used for snail control for over 2 decades in China. There is therefore a concern about the emergence of niclosamide-resistant snail populations following repeated, extensive use of the chemical. The purpose of this study was to investigate the likelihood of niclosamide resistance in Oncomelania hupensis in China. Active adult O. hupensis snails derived from 20 counties of 10 schistosomiasis-endemic provinces of China, of 10 snails in each drug concentration, were immersed in solutions of 1, 0·5, 0·25, 0·125, 0·063, 0·032, 0·016 and 0·008 mg L−1 of a 50% wettable powder of niclosamide ethanolamine salt (WPN) for 24 and 48 h at 25 °C, and the median lethal concentration (LC50) was estimated. Then, the 24- and 48-h WPN LC50 values were compared with those determined in the same sampling sites in 2002. The results indicated that the 24- and 48-h WPN LC50 values for O. hupensis were not significantly different from those determined in 2002 (P = 0·202 and 0·796, respectively). It is concluded that the current sensitivity of O. hupensis to niclosamide has not changed after more than 2 decades of repeated, extensive application in the main endemic foci of China, and there is no evidence of resistance to niclosamide detected in O. hupensis.
Perceptions of a patient-staff-caregiver group among inpatients in a radiotherapy unit
Authors: Mitnik Inbal , Zalman Daniela , Vorobeichik Marina , Gurevich-Halevi Michal , Eliasov Liron , Lulav-Grinwald Doron , Bar-Sela Gil
Published: July 2014

Objective:

Coping with cancer and its treatments has significant psychological implications for patients, and hospitalization can lead to emotional distress. Based on a community meeting (CM), a common therapeutic intervention in psychiatric wards, a unique patient–staff–caregiver group is held weekly on the radiotherapy unit of our hospital. The goals are to strengthen patient coping abilities and prompt open communications. The present study aimed at quantitatively estimating the effect of the community meeting by gauging the perceptions with respect to several therapeutic aspects.

Method:

A questionnaire was developed for patients who participated in CMs during their hospitalization based on four theoretical factors: illness perception, relations with the main caregiver, relations with other participants, and relations with unit staff.

Results:

Participants' general satisfaction with the meetings was found to be positive. The most significant aspect of the meetings, as perceived by participants, was relationships with the staff. Patients born in Israel perceived relationships with other participants more positively.

Significance of results:

Attentive interaction with medical staff and open communications are highly important for patients and contribute to their general satisfaction with the meetings.
Regioselective synthesis and molecular structure of the first derivative of praseodymium-containing metallofullerenes
Authors: Zhou Qin , Li Hui , Lian Yongfu , Suzuki Mitsuaki , Bao Lipiao , Cai Wenting , Wang Weiwei , Nagase Shigeru , Lu Xing , Akasaka Takeshi
Published: July 2014

A single praseodymium atom plays a critical role in controlling the chemical properties of the cage carbons of C82.
A cobalt–NHC complex as an improved catalyst for photochemical hydrogen evolution from water
Authors: Kawano Ken , Yamauchi Kosei , Sakai Ken
Published: July 2014

A macrocyclic N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)–cobalt complex was found to act as an improved H2-evolving catalyst in a [Ru(bpy)3]2+-sensitized photosystem using methylviologen as a redox acceptor (MV2+ + e− → MV+˙, MV2+ = N,N′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium), which provides a driving force of only 150 meV for H2 evolution at pH 5.0.
A facile access to substituted benzo[a]fluorenes from o-alkynylbenzaldehydes via in situ formed acetals
Authors: Manojveer Seetharaman , Balamurugan Rengarajan
Published: July 2014

Brønsted acid catalysed reaction of o-alkynylbenzaldehydes with arylalkynes in the presence of trimethyl orthoformate takes a different reaction pathway and results in benzo[a]fluorenes.
Structure versatility of coordination polymers constructed from a semirigid ligand and polynuclear metal clusters
Authors: Yang De-Liang , Zhang Xin , Yao Yuan-Gen , Zhang Jian
Published: July 2014

Presented here are five coordination polymers based on semirigid polycarboxylate ligand and polynuclear metal clusters of particular interest is that the five compounds feature different topological networks.
Theoretical two-atom thick semiconducting carbon sheet
Authors: Hu Meng , Shu Yu , Cui Lin , Xu Bo , Yu Dongli , He Julong
Published: July 2014

A two-atom-thick carbon sheet, called H-net, consists of distorted squares, hexagons, and octagons with three unequal carbon atoms.
Carbon-supported iron–ionic liquid: an efficient and recyclable catalyst for benzylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds with alcohols
Authors: Moriel P. , García A. B.
Published: July 2014

Combining chemical strategies: a robust, heterogeneous and recyclable catalytic system: iron–ionic liquid/carbon material as solid Lewis acid for the direct benzylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds with alcohols.
Guanosine and isoguanosine derivatives for supramolecular devices
Authors: Abet Valentina , Rodriguez Raphaël
Published: July 2014

Guanosine (G) and isoguanosine (isoG) derivatives can self-assemble, yielding supramolecules that have found broad applications in diverse fields.
An activated coumarin-enamine Michael acceptor for CN−
Authors: Davis Aaron B. , Lambert Rachel E. , Fronczek Frank R. , Cragg Peter J. , Wallace Karl J.
Published: July 2014

Two fluorescent chemodosimeters are shown to detect cyanide ions via a Michael addition as low as 4 ppb.
An active-core/active-shell structure with enhanced quantum-cutting luminescence in Pr–Yb co-doped monodisperse nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Wenjuan , Chen Daqin , Lei Lei , Xu Ju , Wang Yuansheng
Published: July 2014

Efficient near-infrared quantum-cutting luminescence has been realized in Pr/Yb co-doped monodisperse core–shell nanoparticles and the active-core/active-shell structure leads to a much intensified emission.
Total synthesis of the cyclic monoterpenoid pyrano[3,2-a]carbazole alkaloids derived from 2-hydroxy-6-methylcarbazole
Authors: Gassner Cemena , Hesse Ronny , Schmidt Arndt W. , Knölker Hans-Joachim
Published: July 2014

The synthesis of seven pyrano[3,2-a]carbazole alkaloids has been achieved using their putative biogenetic precursor 2-hydroxy-6-methylcarbazole as key intermediate.
Transparent and flexible capacitor fabricated using a metal wire network as a transparent conducting electrode
Authors: Gupta Ritu , Rao K. D. M. , Kulkarni Giridhar U.
Published: July 2014

A bendable transparent capacitor made of Au wire network electrodes on PET with an ion gel as dielectric shows a typical frequency response. The wire width and network cell size being in the μm range, the wire network is invisible to the eye.
The ionic liquid–vacuum outer atomic surface: a low-energy ion scattering study
Authors: Villar-Garcia Ignacio J. , Fearn Sarah , De Gregorio Gilbert F. , Ismail Nur L. , Gschwend Florence J. V. , McIntosh Alastair J. S. , Lovelock Kevin R. J.
Published: July 2014

We have identified elements present in the ionic liquid–vacuum outer atomic surface of 23 ionic liquids using high sensitivity low-energy ion scattering (LEIS), a very surface sensitive technique.
Time-resolved photoelectron imaging of the isolated deprotonated nucleotides
Authors: Chatterley Adam S. , West Christopher W. , Stavros Vasilios G. , Verlet Jan R. R.
Published: July 2014

Time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy of deprotonated nucleotides provides new insights into their relaxation dynamics.
A new type of hybrid nanostructure: complete photo-generated carrier separation and ultrahigh photocatalytic activity
Authors: Li Yaguang , Zhu Liping , Guo Yanmin , Song Hui , Lou Zirui , Ye Zhizhen
Published: July 2014

A new type of hybrid nanostructure could completely separate photo-generated carriers and exhibited ultrahigh photocatalytic activities.
Capacitor current feedback pulse train control technique for switching DC–DC converters
Authors: Sha Jin , Xu Jianping , Xu Lijun , Zhong Shu
Published: July 2014

A capacitor current feedback pulse train (CCF‐PT) control technique for switching DC–DC converters is proposed and applied to the control of a buck converter operating in continuous conduction mode (CCM). The analysis and experimental results show that the CCF‐PT control technique can effectively eliminate the low‐frequency oscillation phenomenon that exists in conventional pulse train (PT)‐controlled CCM switching DC–DC converters.
Performance evaluation of large 3D fingerprint databases
Authors: Zhou Wei , Hu Jiankun , Wang Song , Petersen I. , Bennamoun M.
Published: July 2014

Prior to the large‐scale deployment of any biometric system it is necessary to have a realistic estimation of its performance. In the domain of fingerprint biometrics, three‐dimensional (3D) fingerprint scan technology has been developing very fast. However, there is no 3D fingerprint database publicly available for research purposes. To evaluate the matching performance of 3D fingerprints and the compatibility of 2D and 3D fingerprints comprehensively, a large fingerprint database using two commercial fingerprint sensors is established. The database consists of both 3D fingerprints and their corresponding 2D fingerprints. Several verification experiments using a commercial fingerprint identification software are carried out. The results serve as the performance criterion of the database, which will be released publicly together with the database in late 2014.
Specific absorption rate reduction based on outage probability analysis for wireless capsule endoscope with spatial receive diversity
Authors: Anzai Daisuke , Aoyama Sho , Wang Jianqing
Published: July 2014

This study investigates the effect of spatial receive diversity on specific absorption rate (SAR) reduction based on outage probability analysis for wireless capsule endoscope (WCE). The communication performance of WCE depends much on the transmit power, which is strictly regulated in order to satisfy a safety guideline in terms of SAR, whereas WCE requires high communication performance due to its real‐time data transmission. For the purpose of SAR reduction for a WCE scenario, the authors pay attention to the expectation that applying spatial diversity reception to WCE systems can not only improve the wireless communication performance but also reduce SAR. To begin with, based on finite‐difference time‐domain simulations with a numerical human body model, the outage probability is calculated under this implant propagation channel and the required transmit power is derived to secure a permissible outage probability. Then, the local peak SAR is calculated under the required transmit power when the WCE moves through the digestive organs. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate that applying spatial diversity reception can significantly reduce SAR for WCE.
Field dependent emission rates in radiation damaged GaAs
Authors: Fleming R. M. , Myers S. M. , Wampler W. R. , Lang D. V. , Seager C. H. , Campbell J. M.
Published: July 2014

We have measured the temperature and field dependence of emission rates from five traps in electron damaged GaAs. Four of the traps have previously been identified as radiation defects. One of the traps, seen in higher doped diodes, has not been previously identified. We have fit the data to a multiphonon emission theory that allows recombination in GaAs to be characterized over a broad range of temperature and electric field. These results demonstrate an efficient method to calculate field-dependent emission rates in GaAs.
Shaping gas jet plasma density profile by laser generated shock waves
Authors: Kaganovich D. , Gordon D. F. , Helle M. H. , Ting A.
Published: July 2014

The Gaussian plasma density profile from a simple cylindrical nozzle jet was modified using laser generated shock wave. This modification provided great variety of density profiles suitable for different applications. The Gaussian plasma density distribution was modified into fast-rise slow-fall profile with adjustable gradients, almost flat-top profiles, and profiles with variable lengths. Position of the shock wave center and time delay were the major parameters used for shaping the density profiles. Other easily adjustable parameters such as shock wave energy and backing pressure provided linear scaling of the modified plasma densities.
First-order nonadiabatic coupling matrix elements between excited states: A Lagrangian formulation at the CIS, RPA, TD-HF, and TD-DFT levels
Authors: Li Zhendong , Liu Wenjian
Published: July 2014

Analytic expressions for the first-order nonadiabatic coupling matrix elements between electronically excited states are first formulated exactly via both time-independent equation of motion and time-dependent response theory, and are then approximated at the configuration interaction singles, particle-hole/particle-particle random phase approximation, and time-dependent density functional theory/Hartree-Fock levels of theory. Note that, to get the Pulay terms arising from the derivatives of basis functions, the standard response theory designed for electronic perturbations has to be extended to nuclear derivatives. The results are further recast into a Lagrangian form that is similar to that for excited-state energy gradients and allows to use atomic orbital based direct algorithms for large molecules.
Transition voltages of vacuum-spaced and molecular junctions with Ag and Pt electrodes
Authors: Wu Kunlin , Bai Meilin , Sanvito Stefano , Hou Shimin
Published: July 2014

The transition voltage of vacuum-spaced and molecular junctions constructed with Ag and Pt electrodes is investigated by non-equilibrium Green's function formalism combined with density functional theory. Our calculations show that, similarly to the case of Au-vacuum-Au previously studied, the transition voltages of Ag and Pt metal-vacuum-metal junctions with atomic protrusions on the electrode surface are determined by the local density of states of the p-type atomic orbitals of the protrusion. Since the energy position of the Pt 6p atomic orbitals is higher than that of the 5p/6p of Ag and Au, the transition voltage of Pt-vacuum-Pt junctions is larger than that of both Ag-vacuum-Ag and Au-vacuum-Au junctions. When one moves to analyzing asymmetric molecular junctions constructed with biphenyl thiol as central molecule, then the transition voltage is found to depend on the specific bonding site for the sulfur atom in the thiol group. In particular agreement with experiments, where the largest transition voltage is found for Ag and the smallest for Pt, is obtained when one assumes S binding at the hollow-bridge site on the Ag/Au(111) surface and at the adatom site on the Pt(111) one. This demonstrates the critical role played by the linker-electrode binding geometry in determining the transition voltage of devices made of conjugated thiol molecules.