bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Maynard Robert L. , Myers Isabella , Ross John A. S.
Published: October 2015

The toxicology of carbon monoxide is a large subject. In recent years three large compendia have been published: (1) The International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) Environmental Health Criteria (EHC), Number 219 on Carbon Monoxide (2nd edn), 1999, (2) Carbon Monoxide Poisoning, ed. DG Penney, CRC Press, 2007; (3) The US Environmental Protection Agency's Criteria Document on Carbon Monoxide [US Environmental Protection Agency, An Introduction to indoor air quality (IAQ), Carbon Monoxide (CO)], available at http://www.epa.gov/iaq/co.html, accessed February 2013. These accounts provide a great store of information on carbon monoxide; we have not tried to précis these accounts, far less to provide an alternative compendium. Instead we have written an account that deals with some areas in detail and which touches lightly on others. Our selection has been guided by our perceptions of the needs of scientists, medical staff and others dealing with or advising on how to deal with casualties from fires. Thus we have said little about the possible and much discussed effects of long term exposure to low levels of carbon monoxide and nothing about time series epidemiological studies that have related the occurrence of myocardial infarction to daily peaks and hourly concentrations of carbon monoxide. These studies are, of course, important in considering the effects of both acute and chronic exposure to low concentrations of air pollutants. This chapter is about the effects of the rather higher concentrations of carbon monoxide produced by inhalation of the products of combustion of fires.
Hydrophobized plant polyphenols: self-assembly and promising antibacterial, adhesive, and anticorrosion coatings
Authors: Payra Debabrata , Naito Masanobu , Fujii Yoshihisa , Nagao Yuki
Published: October 2015

A naturally abundant plant polyphenol was rationally modified to partiallyn-alkylated derivatives for wide-range organosolubility, spontaneous fibrous self-assembly, and a highly stable multifunctional thin-film.
Asymmetric synthesis of 1H-pyrrol-3(2H)-ones from 2,3-diketoesters by combination of aldol condensation with benzilic acid rearrangement
Authors: Sha Qiang , Arman Hadi , Doyle Michael P.
Published: October 2015

A highly efficient two-step asymmetric synthesis of 1H-pyrrol-3(2H)-one derivatives from conveniently accessed 2,3-diketoesters. Aldol products are obtained with up to 89/11 d.r. and 99% ee. Benzilic acid rearrangement produces 1H-pyrrol-3(2H)-ones in good yields without loss of enantioselectivity.
A highly enantioselective Biginelli reaction using self-assembled methanoproline–thiourea organocatalysts: asymmetric synthesis of 6-isopropyl-3,4-dihydropyrimidines
Authors: Hang Zhijun , Zhu Jun , Lian Xiang , Xu Peng , Yu Han , Han Sheng
Published: October 2015

An efficient self-assembled methanoproline–thiourea organocatalyst for the synthesis of optically active 6-isopropyl-3,4-dihydropyrimidinesviaan asymmetric Biginelli reaction was developed, which is superior to the individual precatalyst.
A pyridyl-decorated MOF-505 analogue exhibiting hierarchical porosity, selective CO2 capture and catalytic capacity
Authors: Dang Qin-Qin , Zhan Yu-Fen , Duan Li-Na , Zhang Xian-Ming
Published: October 2015

An expanded pyridyl-decorated MOF-505 analogue[Cu2(L)(H2O)2]·Gx (H4L = 5,5′-(pyridine-2,5-diyl)diisophthalic acid, G = solvent molecule) has been solvothermally synthesized and reported.
Two water-bridged cobalt(ii) chains with isomeric naphthoate spacers: from metamagnetic to single-chain magnetic behaviour
Authors: Liu Zhong-Yi , Xia Yan-Fei , Jiao Jiao , Yang En-Cui , Zhao Xiao-Jun
Published: October 2015

Two water-bridged cobalt(ii) chains with isomeric naphthoate spacers exhibit metamagnetic and SCM behaviours, arising from the dramatically different interchain stacking induced by naphthoate isomers.
Design and synthesis of purely inorganic 3D frameworks composed of reduced vanadium clusters and manganese linkers
Authors: Zhou Yang-Yang , Yao Shuang , Yan Jing-Hui , Chen Li , Wang Ting-Ting , Wang Chun-Jie , Zhang Zhi-Ming
Published: October 2015

Two 3D purely inorganic frameworks [Mn2(H2O)7VIV18O42(PO4)]11− (1) and [Mn4(H2O)11VIV18O42(PO4)]7− (2), based on the all reduced polyoxovanadates, are designed and synthesized for the first time.
Oral bioavailability and sex specific tissue partitioning of quantum dots in fathead minnows, Pimephales promelas
Authors: Lavelle C. M. , Bisesi J. H. , Hahn M. A. , Kroll K. J. , Sabo-Attwood T. , Denslow N. D.
Published: October 2015

Quantum dots with different surface chemistries display a sex-specific tissue distribution following oral exposure in fathead minnows, an agastric fish.
Exploring the mechanism of how tvMyb2 recognizes and binds ap65-1 by molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations
Authors: Li Wei-Kang , Zheng Qing-Chuan , Zhang Hong-Xing
Published: October 2015

Molecular dynamic simulations and MMPBSA calculations of tvMyb2-ap65-1 complex and its mutants, our work give important information to understand the interactions between tvMyb2-ap65-1.
Synthesis, structure and gas-phase reactivity of the mixed silver hydride borohydride nanocluster [Ag3(μ3-H)(μ3-BH4)LPh3]BF4(LPh= bis(diphenylphosphino)methane)
Authors: Zavras Athanasios , Ariafard Alireza , Khairallah George N. , White Jonathan M. , Mulder Roger J. , Canty Allan J. , O'Hair Richard A. J.
Published: October 2015

Borohydrides react with silver salts to give products that span multiple scales ranging from discrete mononuclear compounds through to silver nanoparticles and colloids.
Tailorable chiroptical activity of metallic nanospiral arrays
Authors: Deng Junhong , Fu Junxue , Ng Jack , Huang Zhifeng
Published: October 2015

Taking advantage of the facile sculpture of spiral morphologies via glancing angle deposition, the chiroptical activity of a silver nanospiral array is tailorable by engineering helical structures, combining the left- and right-handed helical chirality, and controlling the alignment of the longitudinal axes of two incorporated helices.
Exceptionally low thermal conductivity of poly(3-hexylthiophene) single nanowires
Authors: Lee Yi-Jung , Jeng Kai-Sheng , Chen Jiun-Tai , Sun Kien Wen
Published: October 2015

This article examines the thermal conductivity of a single P3HT nanowire with a cross-section of 5 nm by 15 nm.
Novel TiO2/graphene oxide functionalized with a cobalt complex for significant degradation of NOx and CO
Authors: Seifvand N. , Kowsari E.
Published: October 2015

A TiO2/FGO composite manifests high photocatalytic properties for NOx and CO removal as high as three times more than that of bare TiO2.
Dye-sensitized-solar-cells based on calix[4]arene scaffolds
Authors: Castillo-Vallés M. , Andrés-Castán J. M. , Garín J. , Orduna J. , Villacampa B. , Franco S. , Blesa M. J.
Published: October 2015

Calix[4]arene-based dyes open the possibility to prepare more D–π–A branched dyes for increasing light-current conversión efficiencies.
Antioxidation efficiency and reinforcement performance of precipitated-silica-based immobile antioxidants obtained by a sol method in natural rubber composites
Authors: Wei Haitao , Zhou Junjun , Zheng Jing , Huang Guangsu
Published: October 2015

This precipitated-silica-based immobile antioxidant (P-RT) possesses outstanding reinforcement and anti-oxidation performance in an NR matrix. E.g. the NR/P-RT composite is far longer than NR composites containing the general antioxidant 4010NA.
Improved mechanical properties of polyacrylamide hydrogels created in the presence of low-molecular-weight hydrogelators
Authors: Ohsedo Yutaka , Taniguchi Makiko , Saruhashi Kowichiro , Watanabe Hisayuki
Published: October 2015

It was found that the crushing stress of the obtained polyacrylamide hydrogels was enhanced by using the molecular gel as removable templates.
Synthesis and characterization of glycidyl-polymer-based poly(ionic liquid)s: highly designable polyelectrolytes with a poly(ethylene glycol) main chain
Authors: Ikeda T. , Nagao I. , Moriyama S. , Kim J.-D.
Published: October 2015

Glycidyl-polymer-based poly(ionic liquid)s with different spacers and ionic moieties were synthesized by click functionalization of a glycidyl azide polymer.
Preparation and characterization of enzyme-responsive emamectin benzoate microcapsules based on a copolymer matrix of silica–epichlorohydrin–carboxymethylcellulose
Authors: Guo Mingcheng , Zhang Wenbing , Ding Guanglong , Guo Dong , Zhu Juanli , Wang Baitao , Punyapitak Darunee , Cao Yongsong
Published: October 2015

Novel enzyme-responsive emamectin benzoate microcapsules with remarkable loading ability and photo- and thermal stability were prepared for sustained crop protection.
Novolac cured epoxy resin/fullerene modified clay composites: applied to copper clad laminates
Authors: Tsai Tsung-Yen , Bunekar Naveen , Huang Chun-Chieh , Huang Yu-Shan , Chen Li-Chun
Published: October 2015

Schematic representation of modified clay material, epoxy composite exfoliated and intercalated morphologies and its burning behavior.
Assembly of silica aerogels within silica nanofibers: towards a super-insulating flexible hybrid aerogel membrane
Authors: Zheng Hongxia , Shan Haoru , Bai Ying , Wang Xianfeng , Liu Lifang , Yu Jianyong , Ding Bin
Published: October 2015

A robust flexible hybrid aerogel membrane with super-insulating properties and improved mechanical properties is developed by forming an interpenetrating silica nanoparticle network inside an electrospun silica nanofibrous scaffold.
Production of gold nanoparticles using atmospheric pressure glow microdischarge generated in contact with a flowing liquid cathode – a design of experiments study
Authors: Dzimitrowicz A. , Lesniewicz T. , Greda K. , Jamroz P. , Nyk M. , Pohl P.
Published: October 2015

dc-μAPGD with a miniature flow Ar plasma microjet and a small-sized flowing liquid cathode was characterized with respect to the multivariate effects of selected factors on the particle size of synthesized AuNPs by using the DOE and RSM approach.
A solvent- and catalyst-free domino reaction for the efficient synthesis of 3-arylthiazolidine-2-thiones under microwave irradiation
Authors: Kumar Sundaravel Vivek , Muthusubramanian Shanmugam , Perumal Subbu
Published: October 2015

A facile synthesis of 4-hydroxy-3-arylthiazolidine-2-thiones through novel domino reactions of aryl isothiocyanates and 1,4-dithiane-2,5-diol under solvent- and catalyst-free microwave irradiation is reported.
Bio-complementary supramolecular polymers with effective self-healing functionality
Authors: Cheng Chih-Chia , Chang Feng-Chih , Dai Shenghong A. , Lin Yu-Li , Lee Duu-Jong
Published: October 2015

Self-healing supramolecular polymers can be rapidly reprocessed under mild temperature conditions via dynamic reshuffling of the hydrogen bond networks.
Cationic nickel porphyrinoids with unexpected reactivity
Authors: Wicht Richard , Bahnmüller Stefanie , Brandhorst Kai , Schweyen Peter , Bröring Martin
Published: October 2015

Nickel(II) complexes of ring-contracted 9-methylisocorroles were prepared by templated macrocyclisation and act as the first porphyrinoid catalysts for C–C cross-coupling.
Probing the Ca2+-assisted π–π interaction during Ca2+-dependent protein folding
Authors: Matyska Liskova Petra , Fiser Radovan , Macek Pavel , Chmelik Josef , Sykora Jan , Bednarova Lucie , Konopasek Ivo , Bumba Ladislav
Published: October 2015

A self-processing module of the iron-regulated protein FrpC of Neisseria meningitidis serves as an excellent experimental model for the investigation of the Ca2+-assisted π–π interaction during Ca2+-induced protein folding.
Local distortion energy and coarse-grained elasticity of the twist-bend nematic phase
Authors: Meyer C. , Dozov I.
Published: October 2015

We develop a coarse-grained model describing the macroscopic elasticity of the twist-bend nematic by analogy with the chiral smectic-A phase.
Tailoring biomaterial surface properties to modulate host-implant interactions: implication in cardiovascular and bone therapy
Authors: Pacelli Settimio , Manoharan Vijayan , Desalvo Anna , Lomis Nikita , Jodha Kartikeya Singh , Prakash Satya , Paul Arghya
Published: October 2015

Host body response to a foreign medical device plays a critical role in defining its fate post implantation.
Characterisation of system clock frequency effects on electromagnetic immunity of microcontroller input buffer
Authors: Liu Tong , Zhou Changlin , Wang Zhenyi , Zhao Shouguo , Liang Zhenhe
Published: October 2015

An original study about system clock frequency effects on electromagnetic immunity of the microcontroller general purpose input buffer is presented. For the first time clock frequency effects are considered in electromagnetic immunity measurement of the microcontroller input buffer to conducted radio frequency interferences. Results presented show that clock signal variations in frequency could induce conducted immunity level fluctuations of the microcontroller input buffer.
Characterisation and analytical modelling of GaN HEMT‐based varactor diodes
Authors: Hamdoun A. , Roy L. , Himdi M. , Lafond O.
Published: October 2015

Varactor diodes fabricated in 0.5 and 0.15 µm GaN HEMT (high‐electron‐mobility transistor) processes are modelled. The devices were characterised via DC and RF small‐signal measurements up to 20 GHz, and fitted to a simple physical equivalent circuit. Approximate analytical expressions containing empirical coefficients are introduced for the voltage dependency of capacitance and series resistance. The analytical solutions agree remarkably well with the experimentally extracted C–V curves and can be used as a general model to represent the nonlinear behaviour of GaN‐based varactors devices.
Watermarking‐based image authentication robust to JPEG compression
Authors: Preda R.O. , Vizireanu D.N.
Published: October 2015

A watermarking‐based image authentication scheme in the discrete cosine transform (DCT) domain robust to JPEG compression is presented. The binary authentication code is generated from a pseudo‐random sequence based on a secret key and a block‐dependent feature, protecting the scheme against cut‐and‐paste attacks. The watermark is embedded in low‐frequency DCT coefficients selected by the secret key using a modified quantisation index modulation approach. Before embedding, the selected coefficients are quantised using the JPEG quantisation matrix for a selected quality factor, protecting the scheme against JPEG compression with higher quality factors. Experimental results show that the proposed technique achieves very good watermark imperceptibility and is able to detect and locate malicious attacks with good precision. Compared with other existing schemes, the proposed algorithm achieves better performance regarding false positive and false negative detection rates and in discriminating malicious attacks from JPEG compression.
600 GHz InP HBT frequency multiplier
Authors: Choi S.H. , Urteaga M. , Kim M.
Published: October 2015

A 600 GHz monolithic frequency multiplier circuit fabricated using 0.25 μm InP HBT (heterojunction bipolar technology) technology is reported. The multiplier uses two 6 μm finger devices in common‐base push–push configuration to obtain extremely simple matching networks. Measurements using on‐wafer RF probes indicate maximum output power of −8.3 dBm at 590 GHz with a wide operation bandwidth of better than 50 GHz.
5 V driving organic non-volatile memory transistors with poly(vinyl alcohol) gate insulator and poly(3-hexylthiophene) channel layers
Authors: Nam Sungho , Seo Jooyeok , Kim Hwajeong , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: October 2015

Organic non-volatile memory devices were fabricated by employing organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(3-hexylthiophene) as a gate insulating layer and a channel layer, respectively. The 10-nm-thick nickel layers were inserted for better charge injection between the channel layer and the top source/drain electrodes. The fabricated PVA-OFET memory devices could be operated at low voltages (≤5 V) and showed pronounced hysteresis characteristics in the transfer curves, even though very small hysteresis was measured from the output curves. The degree of hysteresis was considerably dependent on the ratio of channel width (W) to channel length (L). The PVA-OFET memory device with the smaller W/L ratio (25) exhibited better retention characteristics upon 700 cycles of writing-reading-erasing-reading operations, which was assigned to the stability of charged states in devices.
Electric current induced coercivity change in Co/Pd multilayer thin films
Authors: Garcia Davil , Butler John , Amos Nissim , Kumar Sandeep
Published: October 2015

In this work, we present the experimental results on the effect of electric current-induced diffusion leading to change in ferromagnetic behavior of Co/Pd multilayer thin films. We applied high-density direct current to a Co/Pd multilayer specimen in ambient conditions. We observed an almost 8.8 times change in coercivity and improved squareness of the thin films using magneto-optic Kerr effect measurement. Magnetic force microscope studies further validate an increase in the coercivity for the current-treated thin films. We experimentally observe that this change cannot be attributed only to Joule heating due to electric current. We propose that the underlying mechanism for the observed behavior is electromigration induced diffusion along the grain boundaries and the thin film surface. Surface diffusion of O2 leads to formation of CoO resulting in the permanent coercivity change observed in this work. The composition of the specimens is Ta (1 nm)/ [Co (0.35 nm)/Pd (0.55 nm)]20.
Defects, strain relaxation, and compositional grading in high indium content InGaN epilayers grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Bazioti C. , Papadomanolaki E. , Kehagias Th. , Walther T. , Smalc-Koziorowska J. , Pavlidou E. , Komninou Ph. , Karakostas Th. , Iliopoulos E. , Dimitrakopulos G. P.
Published: October 2015

We investigate the structural properties of a series of high alloy content InGaN epilayers grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy, employing the deposition temperature as variable under invariant element fluxes. Using transmission electron microscopy methods, distinct strain relaxation modes were observed, depending on the indium content attained through temperature adjustment. At lower indium contents, strain relaxation by V-pit formation dominated, with concurrent formation of an indium-rich interfacial zone. With increasing indium content, this mechanism was gradually substituted by the introduction of a self-formed strained interfacial InGaN layer of lower indium content, as well as multiple intrinsic basal stacking faults and threading dislocations in the rest of the film. We show that this interfacial layer is not chemically abrupt and that major plastic strain relaxation through defect introduction commences upon reaching a critical indium concentration as a result of compositional pulling. Upon further increase of the indium content, this relaxation mode was again gradually succeeded by the increase in the density of misfit dislocations at the InGaN/GaN interface, leading eventually to the suppression of the strained InGaN layer and basal stacking faults.
Point defect states in Sb-doped germanium
Authors: Patel Neil S. , Monmeyran Corentin , Agarwal Anuradha , Kimerling Lionel C.
Published: October 2015

Defect states in n-type Sb-doped germanium were investigated by deep-level transient spectroscopy. Cobalt-60 gamma rays were used to generate isolated vacancies and interstitials which diffuse and react with impurities in the material to form four defect states (E37, E30, E22, and E21) in the upper half of the bandgap. Irradiations at 77 K and 300 K as well as isothermal anneals were performed to characterize the relationships between the four observable defects. E37 is assigned to the Sb donor-vacancy associate (E-center) and is the only vacancy containing defect giving an estimate of 2 × 1011 cm−3 Mrad−1 for the uncorrelated vacancy-interstitial pair introduction rate. The remaining three defect states are interstitial associates and transform among one another. Conversion ratios between E22, E21, and E30 indicate that E22 likely contains two interstitials.
Carers of patients with high-grade glioma report high levels of distress, unmet needs, and psychological morbidity during patient chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Long Anne , Halkett Georgia K.B. , Lobb Elizabeth A. , Shaw Thérèse , Hovey Elizabeth , Nowak Anna K.
Published: October 2015

Background

Few studies have explored the unmet needs of carers of people with high-grade glioma. We aimed to determine carers' levels of distress during treatment, understand their support needs and explore predictors of distress.

Methods

Carers of people with high-grade glioma undergoing chemoradiotherapy were recruited to this prospective, longitudinal cohort study. Carers completed the validated Supportive Care Needs Survey, Brain Tumour Specific Supportive Care Needs Scale, Distress Thermometer (DT), and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Questionnaires were administered during patients' chemoradiotherapy and 3 and 6 months later.

Results

We recruited 118 carers who were mainly female (72%) and caring for spouse (82%). The mean age was 53 years (SD = 13.6; range, 21-89). Thirty-one percent of carers reported moderate distress (DT score 5-6/10) and 31% reported extreme distress (score 7-10/10) during combined chemoradiotherapy. Carer distress was associated with adverse GHQ scores (r = 0.61, P < .001). Seventy-two percent reported a negative financial impact of caring and 51% of those previously working full-time had taken leave or reduced working hours. The top 5 moderate/high unmet needs were: accessing prognostic information; accessing financial support and government benefits; accessible hospital parking; impact of caring on usual life; reducing stress in the patients' life.

Conclusion

Carers reported substantial distress, and high distress levels were correlated with greater psychological impact and increased self-reporting of unmet needs. Future research should focus on interventions that aid in reducing carer distress.
Identification and Characterization of Botrytis Blossom Blight of Japanese Plums Caused byBotrytis cinereaandB. prunorumsp. nov. in Chile
Authors: Ferrada Enrique E. , Latorre Bernardo A. , Zoffoli Juan P. , Castillo Antonio
Published: October 2015

Blossom blight is a destructive disease of plums (Prunus salicina) when humid and temperate weather conditions occur in Chile. Disease incidence ranging from 4 to 53% has been observed. Symptoms include light brown petal necrosis, starting as light brown mottles or V-shaped necrosis at the margins of the petals, progressing to the stamen and pistils. In this study, the etiology of blossom blight of plums was determined. High- and low-sporulating isolates of Botrytis were obtained consistently from blighted blossoms and apparently healthy flowers of plums. Based on colony morphology, conidial production and molecular phylogenetic analysis, these high- and low-sporulating isolates were identified as B. cinerea and B. prunorum sp. nov., respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of the genes glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH), heat-shock protein 60 (HSP60), and DNA-dependent RNA polymerase subunit II (RPB2) grouped B. prunorum isolates in a single cluster, distantly from B. cinerea and other Botrytis species. The phylogenetic analysis of necrosis and ethylene-inducing protein (NEP1 and NEP2) genes corroborated these results. Analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region and large-subunit (26S) ribosomal DNA and detection of Boty and Flipper transposable elements, were not useful to differentiate between these Botrytis species. Both species were pathogenic on plum flowers and the fruit of plums, apples, and kiwifruits. However, B. prunorum was less virulent than B. cinerea. These pathogens were re-isolated from inoculated and diseased tissues; thus, Koch’s postulates were fulfilled, confirming its role in blossom blight of plums. B. cinerea was predominant, suggesting that B. prunorum may play a secondary role in the epidemiology of blossom blight in plums in Chile. This study clearly demonstrated that the etiology of blossom blight of plums is caused by B. cinerea and B. prunorum, which constitute a species complex living in sympatry on plums and possibly on other stone fruit trees.
Elevated Ambient Temperature Differentially Affects Virus Resistance in Two Tobacco Species
Authors: Ma L. , Huang X. , Yu R. , Jing X. L. , Xu J. , Wu C. A. , Zhu C. X. , Liu H. M.
Published: October 2015

Antiviral defense of plants is usually enhanced by an elevated temperature under natural conditions. In order to better understand this phenomenon, we carried out temperature shift experiments with Nicotiana glutinosa plants that were infected with Potato virus X (PVX) or the necrotic strain of Potato virus Y (PVYN). The virus titer of the plants was found to be much lower when they were maintained at 30°C compared with 22°C, particularly in the upper leaves. PVX resistance at 30°C persisted for a short period even when temperature was shifted back to 22°C. In contrast, N. benthamiana lost the virus resistance immediately after the temperature dropped to 22°C. Expression analysis of two RNA-dependent RNA polymerases in N. glutinosa (NgRDR) showed that a 12-day treatment at 30°C increased the expression of NgRDR1, while NgRDR6 was not affected. In addition, the NgRDR6 mRNA level correlated with the PVX titer but was unaffected by PVYN infection. These observations indicate that PVX and PVYN, although they are both RNA viruses, might trigger different defense responses at elevated temperatures. Our study provides valuable data for a better understanding of the temperature-regulated host virus interaction.
Epidemiology and Comorbidities of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in an Indigent Population
Authors: Sirmans Susan M. , Parish Roy C. , Blake Sandra , Wang Xiaojun
Published: October 2015

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. The aims of this study were to provide an estimate of the prevalence of PCOS in clinical practice; compare the risk of established cardiovascular risk factors, cardiovascular disease, and other comorbid conditions in women with PCOS to that of age- and race-matched controls; and explore the total costs of care that can be attributed to PCOS.

Methods

Louisiana Medicaid claims data were used to identify women with PCOS or its defining features and a control group in a ratio of 1:3. The prevalence of PCOS, cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes, dyslipidemia, dysmetabolic syndrome, glucose intolerance, hypertension, and obesity), key comorbidities (anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, eating disorders, infertility, obstructive sleep apnea), and diagnosed cardiovascular disease were measured.

Results

During 2010, the prevalence of PCOS was 0.88%. Women with PCOS were more likely to have a diagnosis of diabetes (odds ratio [OR], 4.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.63–5.21), dyslipidemia (OR, 3.56; 95% CI, 3.04–4.19), dysmetabolic syndrome (OR, 23.46; 95% CI, 13.64–40.36), glucose intolerance (OR, 5.46; 95% CI, 3.10–9.60), hypertension (OR, 2.76; 95% CI, 2.41–3.18), obesity (OR, 5.79; 95% CI, 5.07–6.62), infertility (OR, 23.42; 95% CI, 10.63–51.61), obstructive sleep apnea (OR, 6.47; 95% CI, 3.62–11.55), anxiety (OR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.53–2.04), bipolar disorders (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.55–2.44), and depression (OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.94–2.54) than did controls. Average total costs of care for the year was $5551 in the PCOS group and $3496 in the control group. After controlling for the effects of other variables, the average total cost of care for PCOS was $637 higher than that of the control group. Other variables that contributed significantly to the total costs of care included race, age, acute myocardial infarction, transient ischemic attack, peripheral artery disease, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.

Conclusions

Although the clinical burden of PCOS is high, it is diagnosed less frequently in clinical practice compared with systematic screening studies. This is concerning considering that PCOS is associated with cardiovascular risk factors and other comorbidities. Mean total costs of care for the PCOS group was higher than the mean total costs of care for the control group. Polycystic ovary syndrome is independently associated with an increase in mean total costs of care.
Elevated Serum Levels of Calprotectin (Myeloid-Related Protein 8/14) in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis and Its Association with Disease Activity and Quality of Life
Authors: Oktayoglu Pelin , Bozkurt Mehtap , Mete Nuriye , Caglayan Mehmet , Em Serda , Nas Kemal
Published: October 2015

Background

Calprotectin is one of the major leukocyte S100 proteins showing both calcium binding and antimicrobial characteristics. The serum level of calprotectin is markedly elevated in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as systemic lupus erythematosus and has been suggested to play a prominent role in both progression and pathogenesis of these diseases.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to investigate the serum level of calprotectin in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and its association with disease activity and other clinical characteristics of AS.

Materials and Methods

Thirty-one patients who met the modified New York criteria for AS and 45 healthy controls were included in this study. Both Bath AS disease activity index and AS disease activity score were applied on the patients with AS for the assessment of disease activity; Bath AS functional index, for the assessment of functional activity; Bath AS radiology index, for the assessment of radiological damage; and the AS quality of life questionnaire for the assessment of disease-related life status. Spinal and hip measurements were performed using Bath AS metrology index. The serum level of calprotectin was determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Results

Mean serum level of calprotectin was significantly higher in the patients with AS compared with healthy controls ( P = 0.003). Serum levels of calprotectin did not correlate with Bath AS disease activity index, AS disease activity score, Bath AS functional index, Bath AS radiology index, Bath AS metrology index, modified Schober, chest expansion, AS quality of life questionnaire, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein values ( P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that calprotectin might play an important role in the pathogenetic mechanisms of AS; however, the calprotectin levels did not correlate with the measurements of disease activity, functional abilities, radiological damage, and the quality of life in these patients. Further insight into this area of research might provide opportunities to develop novel treatment strategies, which take into account the role of these peptides in the pathogenetic mechanisms of AS.
Why We Need Community Engagement in Medical Research
Authors: Holzer Jessica K. , Ellis Lauren , Merritt Maria W.
Published: October 2015

Background

The medical research enterprise depends on public recognition of its societal value. In light of evidence indicating public mistrust, especially among minorities, inadequate enrollment as well as diversity of research participants, and poor uptake of findings, medical research seems to fall short of sufficient public regard. Community engagement in medical research, with special attention to minority communities, may help to remedy this shortfall by demonstrating respect for the communities in practical ways.

Approach

We provided 3 case examples that illustrate how specific approaches to community-engaged research can build trust between researchers and communities, encourage participation among underrepresented groups, and enhance the relevance as well as the uptake of research findings.

Discussion

A common attribute of the specific approaches discussed here is that they enable the researchers to demonstrate respect by recognizing community values and interests. The demonstration of respect for the communities has intrinsic ethical importance.

Conclusions

The 2 potential outgrowths of demonstrating respect specifically through community engagement are (1) the production of research that is more relevant to the community and (2) the mitigation of asymmetry in the researcher-community relationship. We summarized practical resources available to researchers who seek to incorporate community engagement in their research.
Relationship between Serum Leptin and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in US Adults: Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Sueblinvong Viranuj , Liangpunsakul Suthat
Published: October 2015

Background

Recent studies suggest an important role for leptin in respiratory immune responses and pathogenesis of inflammatory respiratory diseases. There has been an interest to explore whether leptin plays any role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Objective

We conducted a population-based study to evaluate the relationship between serum leptin and COPD in the third US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants.

Participants and Design

Our study group was constituted by 6415 adults who had fasting serum leptin and underwent spirometry measurement.

Main Outcome Measures

Serum leptin levels were compared (1) between subjects with normal lung function and those with COPD and (2) among COPD subjects with different severities.

Results

Among male participants, 2257 were controls, and 680 had COPD. Compared with controls, COPD subjects were older (62 vs 43 years) and had higher prevalence of smokers (78% vs 58%), lower body mass index (BMI) (26.3 vs 26.9), and higher serum leptin levels (6.6 vs 5.9). For female participants, 2918 were controls, and 560 had COPD. Those with COPD were older (60 vs 43 years) and had lower BMI (26.9 vs 27.7). No differences in serum leptin levels were observed. The independent predictors of COPD in both sexes were age, BMI, and smoking, but not serum leptin. There were no differences in serum leptin among COPD subjects with different severities.

Conclusions

We did not find any significant difference in the levels of serum leptin in subjects with COPD. Our data provide indirect evidence against a major role for serum leptin in the pathogenesis of COPD in humans.
Adenoviral Delivery of Recombinant Soluble Human Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 1 Partially Normalized Mouse Model of Asthma
Authors: Huang Guo-Hua , Zeng Xiao-Li , Cheng Yuan-Xiong , Zhu Shun-Fang , Luo Wei , Wen Qian , Cai Shao-Xi , Su Jin
Published: October 2015

Background

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has been implicated in the airway pathology of asthma and result in resistance to hormone therapy. Tumor necrosis factor α inhibitors have become a major research focus in the treatment of asthma.

Methods

Recombinant adenovirus (Ad-sTNFR1-IgGFc) expressing a fusion protein (sTNFR1-IgGFc), which was consisted of the soluble extracellular region of TNF receptor 1 and Fc fragment of IgG (sTNFR1-IgGFc), was used to transduce primary human airway smooth muscle cells (HASMCs). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry confirmed the expression of sTNFR1-IgGFc. MTT was used to test the effect of sTNFR1-IgGFc to antagonism TNF-α–induced proliferates of HASMCs. To investigate the in vivo effectiveness of sTNFR1-IgGFc, mouse model of asthma was established. Ad-sTNFR1-IgGFc was delivered to the lung via nasal spray. Expression of sTNFR1-IgGFc in the tissue was confirmed by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. The 2 major cell types that are involved in the inflamed asthmatic airway, neutrophils and eosinophils, in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were observed.

Results

The sTNFR1-IgGFc isolated from transduced HASMC culture supernatant was able to antagonize HASMC proliferation stimulated by TNF-α. Asthma-induced pathologies and alterations in the cell composition in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were reduced in mice subjected to Ad-sTNFR1-IgGFc therapy.

Conclusions

The soluble extracellular region of TNF receptor 1 and Fc fragment of IgG was able to functionally antagonize TNF-α in vitro and showed promise as a therapeutic agent for the localized treatment of severe refractory asthma.
The Relation between the Degree of Left Ventricular Mass Regression and Serum Potassium Level Change in Patients with Primary Aldosteronism after Adrenalectomy
Authors: Liao Che-Wei , Chen Aaron , Lin Yen-Tin , Chang Yi-Yao , Wang Shuo-Meng , Wu Vin-Cent , Hung Chi-Sheng , Wu Kwan-Dun , Chueh Shih-Chieh , Lin Yen-Hung ,   The TAIPAI Study Group
Published: October 2015

Background

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the major etiologies for secondary hypertension featuring more prominent left ventricular hypertrophy. The purpose of the study was to investigate the predictive factors of left ventricular mass index (LVMI) regression in patients with PA after adrenalectomy.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed 30 patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) who received adrenalectomy from October 2006 to September 2008. Echocardiography was performed preoperation and 1 year after operation.

Results

Thirty patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma undergoing adrenalectomy were enrolled. In a 1-year follow-up, LVMI decreased significantly by an average of 18.6%. Net LVMI decrease (ΔLVMI) was associated with preoperative LVMI, preoperative serum potassium level, baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP), baseline diastolic blood pressure, net SBP decrease (ΔSBP), net diastolic blood pressure decrease, preoperative/postoperative change of log-transformed plasma aldosterone concentration, preoperative/postoperative change of log-transformed plasma renin activity, and preoperative/postoperative change of serum potassium level (Δserum potassium level). In a multiple regression analysis, preoperative LVMI (β = −0.287, P = 0.049), ΔSBP (β = 0.518, P = 0.01), and Δserum potassium level (β = −20.471, P = 0.014) were significantly correlated with ΔLVMI.

Conclusions

The LVMI in patients with PA regressed significantly after adrenalectomy. Preoperative LVMI, ΔSBP, and Δserum potassium levels are independent factors associated with the degree of LVMI regression.
Acute Complications of Myocardial Infarction in the Current Era
Authors: Bajaj Anurag , Sethi Ankur , Rathor Parul , Suppogu Nissi , Sethi Arjinder
Published: October 2015

Coronary heart disease is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. The incidence of mechanical complications of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has gone down to less than 1% since the advent of percutaneous coronary intervention, but although mortality resulting from AMI has gone down in recent years, the burden remains high. Mechanical complications of AMI include cardiogenic shock, free wall rupture, ventricular septal rupture, acute mitral regurgitation, and right ventricular infarction. Detailed knowledge of the complications and their risk factors can help clinicians in making an early diagnosis. Prompt diagnosis with appropriate medical therapy and timely surgical intervention are necessary for favorable outcomes.
Perioperative Outcomes, Transfusion Requirements, and Inflammatory Response after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting with Off-Pump, Mini-Extracorporeal, and On-Pump Circulation Techniques
Authors: Brinkman William T. , Squiers John J. , Filardo Giovanni , Arsalan Mani , Smith Robert L. , Moore David , Mack Michael J. , DiMaio J. Michael
Published: October 2015

Objectives

Mini-extracorporeal circulation (MECC) units were developed to reduce postoperative morbidity, transfusion requirements, and inflammation associated with conventional on-pump coronary artery bypass (ONCAB) surgery without the technical demands of the off-pump (OPCAB) technique. We compared perioperative outcomes and inflammatory mediation among OPCAB, MECC, and ONCAB techniques.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 102 patients undergoing elective isolated coronary bypass grafting. Perfusion methods were OPCAB (n = 34), MECC (n = 34), and ONCAB (n = 34). Serial blood samples were collected to measure serum inflammatory markers.

Results

There were no operative deaths or strokes. Total red blood cell (RBC) products used in OPCAB, MECC, and ONCAB patients were 0.676, 1.000, and 1.235 units, respectively. Adjusted (by splined Society of Thoracic Surgeons operative risk score) analysis showed no statistically significant differences in mean RBC product use among the different operative systems (OPCAB vs MECC, P = 0.580; OPCAB vs ONCAB, P = 0.311; MECC vs ONCAB, P = 0.633). Adjusted (by Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk score and baseline level) mean plasma level differences (24 hours postoperative - baseline) of C-reactive protein for OPCAB (117.89; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 106.23–129.54) and for MECC (124.88; 95% CI, 113.45–136.32) were significantly higher than for ONCAB (98.82; 95% CI, 86.40–111.24). No significant adjusted differences ( P = 0.304) in interleukin-6 level changes were observed.

Conclusions

Off-pump coronary artery bypass and MECC did not significantly reduce mean total RBC transfusion requirements. Off-pump coronary artery bypass and MECC were associated with greater C-reactive protein elevation than ONCAB, suggestive of an increased inflammatory response to each of these techniques.
The Roles of HIV-1 Proteins and Antiretroviral Drug Therapy in HIV-1-Associated Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Kline Erik R. , Sutliff Roy L.
Published: October 2015

Since the emergence of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1)-infected patients have demonstrated dramatic decreases in viral burden and opportunistic infections, and an overall increase in life expectancy. Despite these positive HAART-associated outcomes, it has become increasingly clear that HIV-1 patients have an enhanced risk of developing cardiovascular disease over time. Clinical studies are instrumental in our understanding of vascular dysfunction in the context of HIV-1 infection. However, most clinical studies often do not distinguish whether HIV-1 proteins, HAART, or a combination of these 2 factors cause cardiovascular complications. This review seeks to address the roles of both HIV-1 proteins and antiretroviral drugs in the development of endothelial dysfunction because endothelial dysfunction is the hallmark initial step of many cardiovascular diseases. We analyze recent in vitro and in vivo studies examining endothelial toxicity in response to HIV-1 proteins or in response to the various classes of antiretroviral drugs. Furthermore, we discuss the multiple mechanisms by which HIV-1 proteins and HAART injure the vascular endothelium in HIV-1 patients. By understanding the molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 protein- and antiretroviral-induced cardiovascular disease, we may ultimately improve the quality of life of HIV-1 patients through better drug design and the discovery of new pharmacological targets.
Disruption of endosperm development is a major cause of hybrid seed inviability between Mimulus guttatus and M. nudatus
Authors: Oneal Elen , Willis John H. , Franks Robert
Published: October 2015

Divergence of developmental mechanisms within populations may lead to hybrid developmental failure, and may be a factor driving speciation in angiosperms. We investigate patterns of endosperm and embryo development in Mimulus guttatus and the closely related, serpentine endemic M. nudatus, and compare them to those of reciprocal hybrid seed. We address whether disruption in hybrid seed development is the primary source of reproductive isolation between these sympatric taxa. M. guttatus and M. nudatus differ in the pattern and timing of endosperm and embryo development. Some hybrid seed exhibit early disruption of endosperm development and are completely inviable, while others develop relatively normally at first, but later exhibit impaired endosperm proliferation and low germination success. These developmental patterns are reflected in mature hybrid seed, which are either small and flat (indicating little to no endosperm), or shriveled (indicating reduced endosperm volume). Hybrid seed inviability forms a potent reproductive barrier between M. guttatus and M. nudatus. We shed light on the extent of developmental variation between closely related species within the M. guttatus species complex, an important ecological model system, and provide a partial mechanism for the hybrid barrier between M. guttatus and M. nudatus.
True and false memories, parietal cortex, and confidence judgments
Authors: Urgolites Zhisen J. , Smith Christine N. , Squire Larry R.
Published: October 2015

Recent studies have asked whether activity in the medial temporal lobe (MTL) and the neocortex can distinguish true memory from false memory. A frequent complication has been that the confidence associated with correct memory judgments (true memory) is typically higher than the confidence associated with incorrect memory judgments (false memory). Accordingly, it has often been difficult to know whether a finding is related to memory confidence or memory accuracy. In the current study, participants made recognition memory judgments with confidence ratings in response to previously studied scenes and novel scenes. The left hippocampus and 16 other brain regions distinguished true and false memories when confidence ratings were different for the two conditions. Only three regions (all in the parietal cortex) distinguished true and false memories when confidence ratings were equated. These findings illustrate the utility of taking confidence ratings into account when identifying brain regions associated with true and false memories. Neural correlates of true and false memories are most easily interpreted when confidence ratings are similar for the two kinds of memories.
Crystal structure of 2-amino-1,3-dibromo-6-oxo-5,6-dihydropyrido[1,2-a]quinoxalin-11-ium bromide monohydrate
Authors: Faizi Md. Serajul Haque , Parashchenko Yuliia
Published: October 2015

In the title hydrated salt, C12H8Br2N3O+·Br−·H2O, which was synthesized by the reaction of the pyridine derivative Schiff baseN1,N4-bis(pyridine-2-ylmethylene)benzene-1,4-diamine with bromine, the asymmetric unit contains a 2-amino-1,3-dibromo-6-oxo-5,6-dihydropyrido[1,2-a]quinoxalin-11-ium cation, with a protonated pyridine moiety, a bromide anion and a water molecule of solvation. The cation is non-planar with the dibromo-substituted benzene ring, forming dihedral angles of 24.3 (4) and 11.5 (4)° with the fused pyridine and pyrazine ring moieties, respectively. In the crystal, the cations are linked through a centrosymmetric hydrogen-bonded cyclicR42(8) Br2(H2O)2unit by N—H...Br, N—H...O and O—H...Br hydrogen bonds, forming one-dimensional ribbons extending alongb, with the planes of the cations lying parallel to (100).
Crystal structure of 2-cyclohexyl-1,3-thiazolo[4,5-b]pyridine
Authors: El-Hiti Gamal A. , Smith Keith , Hegazy Amany S. , Ajarim Mansour D. , Kariuki Benson M.
Published: October 2015

In the title compound, C12H14N2S, the cyclohexane ring adopts a chair conformation with the exocyclic C—C bond in an equatorial orientation. The mean plane through the cyclohexane ring (all atoms) is twisted from the thiazolopyridine ring system (r.m.s. deviation = 0.013 Å) by 39.57 (6)°. In the crystal, molecules form (100) sheets, although there are no specific directional interactions between them. The crystal stucture was refined as a two-component perfect twin.