bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A method for histopathological study of the multifocal nature of spinal cord lesions in murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Gibson-Corley Katherine N. , Boyden Alexander W. , Leidinger Mariah R. , Lambertz Allyn M. , Ofori-Amanfo Georgina , Naumann Paul W. , Goeken J. Adam , Karandikar Nitin J.
Published: January 2016

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a well-established mouse model for multiple sclerosis and is characterized by infiltration of mononuclear cells and demyelination within the central nervous system along with the clinical symptoms of paralysis. EAE is a multifocal and random disease, which sometimes makes histopathologic analysis of lesions difficult as it may not be possible to predict where lesions will occur, especially when evaluating cross sections of spinal cord. Consequently, lesions may be easily missed due to limited sampling in traditional approaches. To evaluate the entire length of the spinal cord while maintaining anatomic integrity, we have developed a method to section the cord within the decalcified spinal column, which allows for the study of the multifocal nature of this disease and also minimizes handling artifact. HE and Luxol fast blue staining of these spinal cord sections revealed a paucity of lesions in some areas, while others showed marked inflammation and demyelination. The percentage of spinal cord affected by EAE was evaluated at four separate areas of longitudinally sectioned cord and it varied greatly within each animal. Immunohistochemical staining of in situ spinal cords which had undergone decalcification was successful for key immuno-markers used in EAE research including CD3 for T cells, B220 for B cells and F4/80 for murine macrophages. This method will allow investigators to look at the entire spinal cord on a single slide and evaluate the spinal cord with and without classic EAE lesions.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Bis‐Hydroaminomethylation of Linear Aliphatic Alkenes with Piperazine
Authors: Seidensticker Thomas , Vosberg Jonas M. , Ostrowski Karoline A. , Vorholt Andreas J.
Published: January 2016

An efficient protocol was developed to prepare a series of dialkylpiperazines via Rh‐catalyzed bis‐hydroaminomethylation of linear aliphatic alkenes with piperazine. The well‐known Rh/Biphephos catalytic system was applied, yielding the desired dialkylpiperazines within six tandem catalytic steps, already at low catalyst loadings of 0.1 mol%. For the model alkene 1‐octene, good yields and linearities of 80% and 77:23, respectively, were achieved under optimized conditions. Influences on the catalytic system regarding n/iso ratio, possible side reactions and the reaction path are discussed on the basis of yield vs. time plots and parameter optimization. With the developed general protocol, other linear, functionalized and branched substrates were effectively transformed to the corresponding linear N,N‐disubstituted piperazines.

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Event‐Based Consensus Controller for Linear Multi‐Agent Systems Over Directed Communication Topologies: A Co‐Design Approach
Authors: Noorbakhsh S. Mohammad , Ghaisari Jafar
Published: January 2016

The paper addresses the distributed event‐triggered consensus problem in directed topologies for multi‐agent systems (MAS) with general linear dynamic agents. A co‐design approach is proposed to determine parameters of the consensus controller and its event‐triggered mechanism (ETM), simultaneously. This approach guarantees asymptotic stability along with decreasing data transmission among agents. In the proposed event‐based consensus controller, each agent broadcasts data to the neighbors only at its own triggering instants; this differs from previous studies in which continuous data streams among agents were required. Furthermore, the proposed control law is based on the piecewise constant functions of the measurement values, which are updated at triggering instants. In this case the control scheme decreases the communication network usage, energy consumption, and wear of the actuator. As a result, it facilitates distributed implementation of the proposed consensus controller for real‐world applications. A theorem is proved to outline sufficient conditions to guarantee the asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop system with the event‐based consensus controller. Another theorem is also proved to show the Zeno behavior exclusion. As a case study, the proposed event‐based controller is applied for a diving consensus problem to illustrate the effectiveness of the method.
Angina and associated healthcare costs following percutaneous coronary intervention: A real‐world analysis from a multi‐payer database
Authors: Ben‐Yehuda Ori , Kazi Dhruv S. , Bonafede Machaon , Wade Sally W. , Machacz Susanne F. , Stephens Leslie A. , Hlatky Mark A. , Hernandez John B.
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To study the contemporary, real‐world clinical and economic burden associated with angina after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Angina adversely affects quality of life and medical costs, yet data on real‐world prevalence of angina following PCI and its associated economic consequences are limited.

Methods

In a multi‐payer administrative claims database, we identified adults with incident inpatient PCI admissions between 2008 and 2011 who had at least 12 months of continuous medical and pharmacy benefits before and after the procedure. Patients were followed for up to 36 months. Using claims, we ascertained post‐PCI outcomes: angina or chest pain, acute myocardial infarction, acute coronary syndrome, repeat PCI, healthcare service utilization, and costs.

Results

Among 51,710 study patients (mean age 61.8, 72% male), post‐PCI angina or chest pain was present in 28% by 12 months and 40% by 36 months. Compared with patients who did not experience chest pain, angina or ACS, total healthcare costs in the first year after the index PCI were 1.8 times greater for patients with angina or chest pain ($32,437 vs. $17,913, P < 0.001). These cost differentials continued to 36 months.

Conclusions

Angina after PCI is a frequent and expensive outcome. Further research is needed to identify risk factors and potentially improve outcomes for post‐PCI angina. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Delayed left anterior mitral leaflet perforation and infective endocarditis after transapical aortic valve implantation—Case report and systematic review
Authors: Amat‐Santos Ignacio J. , Cortés Carlos , Varela‐Falcón Luis H.
Published: January 2016

Aim

We aimed to illustrate the physiopathology of anterior mitral leaflet perforation after TAVI in patients suffering from infective endocarditis (IE).

Methods and Results

The first known case of balloon‐expandable transapical case from our series suffering from this complication was reported. In addition, a systematic electronic search of all published cases reporting both entities was performed. Five transfemoral cases have been published to the date, all males with mean age of 79.2 year (range: 66–88). Four were treated with self‐expandable prostheses (deeply implanted in the outflow tract). There was moderate residual aortic regurgitation in four. Fever and positive blood cultures for typical micoorganisms were present at certain time point in all cases between the first week and up to 11 months (early IE). Three cases underwent cardiac surgery with adequate outcomes and two others died during hospitalization. Medical management in the case from our series allowed patient's survival at 1‐year follow up.

Conclusions

Early suspicion of IE whenever anterior mitral perforation is found after TAVI can be life‐saving. The hypothetical higher risk of this complication due to higher rate of aortic regurgitation has to be prevented through adequate prosthesis depth and careful sterile surgical technique. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Doubly committed subarterial ventricular septal defect: A risk factor for aortic distortion in patients considered for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation?
Authors: Jivanji Salim G.M. , Derrick Graham , Khambadkone Sachin
Published: January 2016

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation has gradually become the first line strategy for re‐intervention for right ventricular outflow tract dysfunction during long‐term follow‐up after congenital cardiac surgery in many centers. We describe a case of a patient with double outlet right ventricle (Fallot's type) with a doubly committed subarterial ventricular septal defect, where the unique anatomy precluded percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sleep and immunomodulatory responses to systemic lipopolysaccharide in mice selectively expressing interleukin‐1 receptor 1 on neurons or astrocytes
Authors: Ingiosi Ashley M. , Opp Mark R.
Published: January 2016

Sleep‐wake behavior is altered in response to immune challenge. Although the precise mechanisms that govern sickness‐induced changes in sleep are not fully understood, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1) is one mediator of these responses. To better understand mechanisms underlying sleep and inflammatory responses to immune challenge, we used two transgenic mouse strains that express IL‐1 receptor 1 (IL1R1) only in the central nervous system and selectively on neurons or astrocytes. Electroencephalographic recordings from transgenic and wild‐type mice reveal that systemic challenge with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) fragments sleep, suppresses rapid eye movement sleep (REMS), increases non‐REMS (NREMS), diminishes NREM delta power, and induces fever in all genotypes. However, the magnitude of REMS suppression is greater in mice expressing IL1R1 on astrocytes compared with mice in which IL1R1 is selectively expressed on neurons. Furthermore, there is a delayed increase in NREM delta power when IL1R1 is expressed on astrocytes. LPS‐induced sleep fragmentation is reduced in mice expressing IL1R1 on neurons. Although LPS increases IL‐1 and IL‐6 in brain of all genotypes, this response is attenuated when IL1R1 is expressed selectively on neurons or on astrocytes. Collectively, these data suggest that in these transgenic mice under the conditions of this study it is neuronal IL1R1 that plays a greater role in LPS‐induced suppression of REMS and NREM delta power, whereas astroglial IL1R1 is more important for sleep fragmentation after this immune challenge. Thus, aspects of central responses to LPS are modulated by IL1R1 in a cell type‐specific manner. GLIA 2016;64:780–791
Sialoadhesin promotes neuroinflammation‐related disease progression in two mouse models of CLN disease
Authors: Groh Janos , Ribechini Eliana , Stadler David , Schilling Tim , Lutz Manfred B. , Martini Rudolf
Published: January 2016

CLN diseases are mostly fatal lysosomal storage diseases that lead to neurodegeneration in the CNS. We have previously shown that CD8+ T‐lymphocytes contribute to axonal perturbation and neuron loss in the CNS of Ppt1−/− mice, a model of CLN1 disease. We now investigated the role of the inflammation‐related cell adhesion molecule sialoadhesin (Sn) in Ppt1−/− and Cln3−/− mice, a model of the most frequent form, CLN3 disease. Microglia/macrophages in the CNS of both models showed an upregulation of Sn and markers for proinflammatory M1 polarization and antigen presentation. Sn+ microglia/macrophages associated with SMI32+ axonal spheroids and CD8+ T‐lymphocytes. To analyze their pathogenic impact, we crossbred both models with Sn‐deficient mice and scored axonal degeneration and neuronal integrity using immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy and optical coherence tomography. Degenerative alterations in the retinotectal pathway of Ppt1−/−Sn−/− and Cln3−/−Sn−/− mice were significantly reduced. Ppt1−/−Sn−/− mice also showed a substantially improved clinical phenotype and extended lifespan, attenuated numbers of M1‐polarized microglia/macrophages and reduced expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines. This was accompanied by an increased frequency of CD8+CD122+ T‐lymphocytes in the CNS of Ppt1−/−Sn−/− mice, the regulatory phenotype of which was demonstrated by impaired survival of CD8+CD122− effector T‐lymphocytes in co‐culture experiments. We show for the first time that increased Sn expression on microglia/macrophages contributes to neural perturbation in two distinct models of CLN disease. Our data also indicate that a rarely described CD8+CD122+ T‐cell population can regulate the corresponding diseases. These studies provide insights into CLN pathogenesis and may guide in designing immuno‐regulatory treatment strategies. GLIA 2016;64:792–809
Movement and structure of mitochondria in oligodendrocytes and their myelin sheaths
Authors: Rinholm Johanne E. , Vervaeke Koen , Tadross Michael R. , Tkachuk Ariana N. , Kopek Benjamin G. , Brown Timothy A. , Bergersen Linda H. , Clayton David A.
Published: January 2016

Mitochondria play several crucial roles in the life of oligodendrocytes. During development of the myelin sheath they are essential providers of carbon skeletons and energy for lipid synthesis. During normal brain function their consumption of pyruvate will be a key determinant of how much lactate is available for oligodendrocytes to export to power axonal function. Finally, during calcium‐overload induced pathology, as occurs in ischemia, mitochondria may buffer calcium or induce apoptosis. Despite their important functions, very little is known of the properties of oligodendrocyte mitochondria, and mitochondria have never been observed in the myelin sheaths. We have now used targeted expression of fluorescent mitochondrial markers to characterize the location and movement of mitochondria within oligodendrocytes. We show for the first time that mitochondria are able to enter and move within the myelin sheath. Within the myelin sheath the highest number of mitochondria was in the cytoplasmic ridges along the sheath. Mitochondria moved more slowly than in neurons and, in contrast to their behavior in neurons and astrocytes, their movement was increased rather than inhibited by glutamate activating NMDA receptors. By electron microscopy we show that myelin sheath mitochondria have a low surface area of cristae, which suggests a low ATP production. These data specify fundamental properties of the oxidative phosphorylation system in oligodendrocytes, the glial cells that enhance cognition by speeding action potential propagation and provide metabolic support to axons. GLIA 2016;64:810–825
Electroless Copper Plating on Liquid Crystal Polymer Films Using Dimethylamine Borane as Reducing Agent
Authors: Zhang Wenlong , Ding Dongyan
Published: January 2016

Dimethylamine borane (DMAB) was used in electroless copper plating on liquid crystal polymer (LCP) films. An orthogonal test was applied to optimize the plating condition. With Cu film resistivity as the evaluation index, the optimum plating condition is: 10 g/L of CuSO4 ⋅ 5H2O, 14 g/L of EDTA‐2Na, 6 g/L of DMAB, 9.5 of pH value and 50 °C. As pH value increases, the Cu film resistivity decreases and the depo‐ sition rate increases. As temperature increases, the Cu film resistivity decreases first and then increases with a minimum at 50 °C while the deposition rate increases first and then decreases with a maximum at 50 °C. The decreased Cu film resistivity can be attributed to the occurrence of CuO. The adhesive strength of copper layer to LCP film is constant at pH values lower than 8.5 and decreases slightly with the increase in pH value. As temperature increases, the adhesive strength decreases slightly. The decreased adhesive strength with both pH and temperature may be a result of an increased corrosion attack from the bath to the surface of LCP films. Low Cu film resistivity and high deposition rate as well as high adhesive strength can be obtained using DMAB reducing agent.
Assessment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea using a drug‐induced sleep endoscopy rating scale
Authors: Lam Derek J. , Weaver Edward M. , Macarthur Carol J. , Milczuk Henry A. , O'Neill Eleni , Smith Timothy L. , Nguyen Thuan , Shea Steven A.
Published: January 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Assess the reliability of a Sleep Endoscopy Rating Scale (SERS) and its relationship with pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity.

Study Design

Retrospective case series of pediatric patients who underwent drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) at the time of surgery for OSA from January 1, 2013 to May 1, 2014.

Methods

Three blinded otolaryngologists scored obstruction on DISE recordings as absent (0), partial (+1), or complete (+2) at six anatomic levels: nasal airway, nasopharynx, velopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, and arytenoids. Ratings were summed for a SERS total score (range, 0–12). Reliability was calculated using a κ statistic with linear weighting. SERS ratings and obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index (OAHI) were compared using Spearman correlation. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis determined the ability of the SERS total score to predict severe OSA (OAHI >10).

Results

Thirty‐nine patients were included (mean age, 8.3 ± 5.1 years; 36% obese; mean OAHI, 19.1 ± 23.7). Intrarater and inter‐rater reliability was substantial‐to‐excellent (κ = 0.61‐0.83) and fair‐to‐substantial (κ = 0.33‐0.76), respectively. Ratings correlated best with OAHI for the oropharynx (r = 0.54, P = .02), hypopharynx (r = 0.48, P = .04), and SERS total score (r = 0.75, P = .002). In ROC analysis, a SERS total score ≥6 demonstrated sensitivity/specificity of 81.8%/87.5%, respectively, and correctly classified 84% of patients.

Conclusions

The SERS can be applied reliably in children undergoing DISE for OSA. Ratings of the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and SERS total score demonstrated significant correlation with OSA severity. A SERS total score ≥6 was an accurate predictor of severe OSA.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1492–1498, 2016
Congenital oval or round window malformations in children: Surgical findings and results in 17 cases
Authors: Vincent Robert , Wegner Inge , Derks Laura S. M. , Grolman Wilko
Published: January 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To prospectively evaluate surgical findings and hearing results in children undergoing surgery for congenital oval or round window malformations (class IV malformations).

Study Design

A nonrandomized, nonblinded, case series of prospectively collected data.

Methods

Fourteen consecutive pediatric patients who underwent 17 surgical procedures for congenital oval or round window malformations in a tertiary referral center were included. Postoperative pure‐tone audiometry was available in 15 cases. The surgical technique for repair of the ossicular chain was dictated by the surgical findings at the time of surgery. The majority of the cases underwent ossiculoplasty using a Teflon piston, bucket‐handle prosthesis, or total ossicular replacement prosthesis. Associated surgical techniques included malleus relocation and oval window drill‐out procedure. The main outcome measures were preoperative and postoperative hearing status using four‐frequency (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz) audiometry. Air‐conduction thresholds, bone‐conduction thresholds, and air‐bone gap were measured. Postoperative audiometry was performed at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery and at a yearly interval thereafter.

Results

Postoperative air‐bone gap closure to 10 dB or less was achieved in 47%. A postoperative air‐bone gap closure to within 20 dB or less was achieved in 60%. Postoperative sensorineural hearing loss did not occur in this series.

Conclusions

Middle ear surgery for class IV abnormalities is feasible, but success percentages are much lower compared to other types of congenital ossicular malformations. Surgeons should be particularly careful in case of facial nerve abnormalities on computed tomography or during middle ear exploration.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:2552–2558, 2016
Characterization of novel isobenzofuranones by DFT calculations and 2D NMR analysis
Authors: Teixeira Milena G. , Alvarenga Elson S.
Published: January 2016

Phthalides are frequently found in naturally occurring substances and exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities. In the search for compounds with insecticidal activity, phthalides have been used as versatile building blocks for the syntheses of novel potential agrochemicals. In our work, the Diels–Alder reaction between furan‐2(5H)‐one and cyclopentadiene was used successfully to obtain (3aR,4S,7R,7aS)‐3a,4,7,7a‐tetrahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one and (3aS,4R,7S,7aR)‐3a,4,7,7a‐tetrahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one (2) and (3aS,4S,7R,7aR)‐3a,4,7,7a‐tetrahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one and (3aR,4R,7S,7aS)‐3a,4,7,7a‐tetrahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one (3). The endo adduct (2) was brominated to afford (3aR,4R,5R,7R,7aS,8R)‐5,8‐dibromohexahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one and (3aS,4S,5S,7S,7aR,8S)‐5,8‐dibromohexahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one (4) and (3aS,4R,5R,6S,7S,7aR)‐5,6‐dibromohexahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one and (3aR,4S,5S,6R,7R,7aS)‐5,6‐dibromohexahydro‐4,7‐methanoisobenzofuran‐1(3H)‐one (5). Following the initial analysis of the NMR spectra and the proposed two novel unforeseen products, we have decided to fully analyze the classical and non‐classical assay structures with the aid of computational calculations. Computation to predict the 13C and 1H chemical shifts for mean absolute error analyses have been carried out by gauge‐including atomic orbital method at M06‐2X/6‐31+G(d,p) and B3LYP/6‐311+G(2d,p) levels of theory for all viable conformers. Characterization of the novel unforeseen compounds (4) and (5) were not possible by employing only the experimental NMR data; however, a more conclusive structural identification was performed by comparing the experimental and theoretical 1H and 13C chemical shifts by mean absolute error and DP4 probability analyses. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk of cancer among patients with depressive disorder: a meta‐analysis and implications
Authors: Ahn Hee Kyung , Bae Jeong Hun , Ahn Hong Yup , Hwang In Cheol
Published: January 2016

Objective

The question of cancer risk in individuals with depression is unclear, primarily because of the heterogeneity of the assessment of depression in the published literature. To clarify the mixed findings, this analysis was limited to articles that used a reliable method of ascertaining depressive disorder.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library to identify studies investigating the effect of depression on subsequent risk of cancer, defining depression based on the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and/or the International Classification of Disease (ICD). We calculated a pooled odds ratio (OR) for developing cancer with the 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Nine studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. In a random‐effects model, patients with depressive disorder were at increased risk for cancer (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.06–1.50, P = 0.01). However, a significant effect was observed only in low‐quality studies (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.05–1.63, P = 0.018), and not in high‐quality studies (OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.85–1.56, P = 0.366).

Conclusion

Our results did not demonstrate that people with depressive disorder are at increased risk for developing cancer. Well‐designed prospective studies of recurrent or persistent depressive disorder that control for lifestyle factors including smoking are warranted. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prohead RNA: a noncoding viral RNA of novel structure and function
Authors: Hill Alyssa C. , Bartley Laura E. , Schroeder Susan J.
Published: January 2016

Prohead RNA (pRNA) is an essential component of the powerful Φ29‐like bacteriophage DNA packaging motor. However, the specific role of this unique RNA in the Φ29 packaging motor remains unknown. This review examines pRNA as a noncoding RNA of novel structure and function. In order to highlight the reasons for exploring the structure and function of pRNA, we (1) provide an overview of Φ29‐like bacteriophage and the Φ29 DNA packaging motor, including putative motor mechanisms and structures of its component parts; (2) discuss pRNA structure and possible roles for pRNA in the Φ29 packaging motor; (3) summarize pRNA self‐assembly; and (4) describe the prospective therapeutic applications of pRNA. Many questions remain to be answered in order to connect what is currently known about pRNA structure to its novel function in the Φ29 packaging motor. The knowledge gained from studying the structure, function, and sequence variation in pRNA will help develop tools to better navigate the conformational landscapes of RNA. WIREs RNA 2016, 7:428–437. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1330

This article is categorized under:

RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure, Dynamics, and Chemistry

RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems
THE DELINKING OF SEX AND MARRIAGE: PATHWAYS TO FERTILITY AMONG YOUNG FILIPINO WOMEN
Authors: Gipson Jessica D. , Hicks Andrew L.
Published: January 2016

Partnership and fertility patterns of young Filipinos have changed dramatically from previous generations, with a widening gap between sexual initiation and marriage, and concurrent increases in teenage pregnancy and unwanted fertility. Further understanding of young adults’ social contexts and partnership patterns are needed to inform reproductive health programmes and policies affecting young Filipinos. Multivariate Poisson regression models were conducted with longitudinal and inter-generational data from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey (1998–2009) to examine the predictors of young women’s fertility. Age at first sex, and number and duration of partnerships each independently and significantly predicted women’s fertility by 2009 after controlling for contextual influences. Young women with more conservative attitudes towards dating, sex and marriage, and who perceived their mothers to have more conservative attitudes, had higher fertility than their peers, as did young women with mothers who reported more adolescent sexual behaviours. In contrast, fertility was lower among daughters who had higher levels of communication with their mothers. Given high levels of unintended fertility and teenage pregnancy in the Philippines, the findings indicate that the interval between sexual initiation and first and subsequent partnerships may be ideal intervention points for reproductive health services for young Filipinos.
n-3 Fatty acids and asthma
Authors: Kumar Aishwarya , Mastana Sarabjit S. , Lindley Martin R.
Published: January 2016

Asthma is one of the most common and prevalent problems worldwide affecting over 300 million individuals. There is some evidence from observational and intervention studies to suggest a beneficial effect ofn-3 PUFA in inflammatory diseases, specifically asthma. Marine-basedn-3 PUFA have therefore been proposed as a possible complementary/alternative therapy for asthma. The proposed anti-inflammatory effects ofn-3 fatty acids may be linked to a change in cell membrane composition. This altered membrane composition followingn-3 fatty acid supplementation (primarily EPA and DHA) can modify lipid mediator generation via the production of eicosanoids with a reduced inflammatory potential/impact. A recently identified group of lipid mediators derived from EPA including E-series resolvins are proposed to be important in the resolution of inflammation. Reduced inflammation attenuates the severity of asthma including symptoms (dyspnoea) and exerts a bronchodilatory effect. There have been no major health side effects reported with the dietary supplementation ofn-3 fatty acids or their mediators; consequently supplementing withn-3 fatty acids is an attractive non-pharmacological intervention which may benefit asthma.
Life is determined by its environment
Authors: Torday John S. , Miller William B.
Published: January 2016

A well-developed theory of evolutionary biology requires understanding of the origins of life on Earth. However, the initial conditions (ontology) and causal (epistemology) bases on which physiology proceeded have more recently been called into question, given the teleologic nature of Darwinian evolutionary thinking. When evolutionary development is focused on cellular communication, a distinctly different perspective unfolds. The cellular communicative-molecular approach affords a logical progression for the evolutionary narrative based on the basic physiologic properties of the cell.

Critical to this appraisal is recognition of the cell as a fundamental reiterative unit of reciprocating communication that receives information from and reacts to epiphenomena to solve problems. Following the course of vertebrate physiology from its unicellular origins instead of its overt phenotypic appearances and functional associations provides a robust, predictive picture for the means by which complex physiology evolved from unicellular organisms. With this foreknowledge of physiologic principles, we can determine the fundamentals of Physiology based on cellular first principles using a logical, predictable method. Thus, evolutionary creativity on our planet can be viewed as a paradoxical product of boundary conditions that permit homeostatic moments of varying length and amplitude that can productively absorb a variety of epigenetic impacts to meet environmental challenges.
Realization of a flexible and mechanically robust Ag mesh transparent electrode and its application in a PDLC device
Authors: Qi Liangfei , Li Jia , Zhu Chaoting , Yang Ye , Zhao Shijin , Song Weijie
Published: January 2016

In this paper, flexible Ag electrodes with a hexagonal micromesh structure were fabricated on PET substrate using a photolithography technique. The Ag mesh electrodes were firstly applied to a polymer dispersed liquid crystal device.
Magnetically recoverable ZrO2/Fe3O4/chitosan nanomaterials for enhanced sunlight driven photoreduction of carcinogenic Cr(vi) and dechlorination & mineralization of 4-chlorophenol from simulated waste water
Authors: Kumar Amit , Guo Changsheng , Sharma Gaurav , Pathania Deepak , Naushad Mu , Kalia Susheel , Dhiman Pooja
Published: January 2016

In this laboratory-scale experiment we report the treatment of carcinogenic Cr(vi) and 4-chlorophenol by ferromagnetic ZrO2/Fe3O4 nano-heterojunctions supported on chitosan.
Ca-doped CuS/graphene sheet nanocomposite as a highly catalytic counter electrode for improving quantum dot-sensitized solar cell performance
Authors: Khalili Seyede Sara , Dehghani Hossein
Published: January 2016

In this study, the highest energy conversion efficiency is obtained by Ca- CuS/GS CE, corresponding to efficiency increment (70%) compared to the CuS bare CE.
Modification of abandoned fine blue-coke: optimization study on removal of p-nitrophenol using response surface methodology
Authors: Wei Fengyu , Wu Bo , Zhang Jincheng , Zhang Wanting
Published: January 2016

Abandoned fine blue-coke was modified with a physicochemical method including nitric acid (HNO3) treatment and nitrogen gas (N2) calcination, and used as an adsorbent for p-nitrophenol (PNP) removal.
Chemical synthesis of 3D copper sulfide with different morphologies for high performance supercapacitors application
Authors: Bulakhe Ravindra N. , Sahoo Sumanta , Nguyen Thi Toan , Lokhande Chandrakant D. , Roh Changhyun , Lee Yong Rok , Shim Jae-Jin
Published: January 2016

Schematic growth of copper sulfide as nanoflakes and nanotube like structure.
Atomically thin Pt shells on Au nanoparticle cores: facile synthesis and efficient synergetic catalysis
Authors: Engelbrekt C. , Šešelj N. , Poreddy R. , Riisager A. , Ulstrup J. , Zhang J.
Published: January 2016

Atomically thin platinum shells on gold nanoparticles (NPs) are synthesized in one pot under mild conditions. The core-shell NPs exhibit excellent catalysis for energy related processes such as electrochemical oxidation of biofuels, aromatic ring hydrogenation, and γ-valerolactone production.
A review of one-dimensional TiO2nanostructured materials for environmental and energy applications
Authors: Ge Mingzheng , Cao Chunyan , Huang Jianying , Li Shuhui , Chen Zhong , Zhang Ke-Qin , Al-Deyab S. S. , Lai Yuekun
Published: January 2016

State-of-the-art development of fabrication methods and surface engineering strategies of 1D TiO2nanostructures is reviewed, and an overview given of their potential applications including pollutant degradation/CO2photoreduction photocatalysts, water splitting, solar cells, lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors.
A balancing act: manipulating reactivity of shape-controlled metal nanocatalysts through bimetallic architecture
Authors: Laskar M. , Skrabalak S. E.
Published: January 2016

Catalytic performance and bimetallic architecture are intertwined.
The influence of selected NSAIDs on volume phase transition in poly(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl methacrylate) hydrogels
Authors: Olejniczak Magdalena N. , Piechocki Krzysztof , Kozanecki Marcin , Koynov Kaloian , Adamus Agnieszka , Wach Radosław A.
Published: January 2016

Hydrogels exhibiting Volume Phase Transition (VPT) are considered as useful biomaterials for the preparation of various drug delivery systems.
Controllable transition from positive space charge to negative space charge in an inverted cylindrical magnetron
Authors: Rane R. , Bandyopadhyay M. , Ranjan M. , Mukherjee S.
Published: January 2016

The combined effect of magnetic field (B), gas pressure (P), and the corresponding discharge voltage on the discharge properties of argon in inverted cylindrical magnetron has been investigated. In the experiment, anode is biased with continuous 10 ms sinusoidal half wave. It is observed that at a comparatively higher magnetic field (i.e., >200 gauss) and lower operating pressure (i.e., <1 × 10−3 mbar), the discharge extinguishes and demands a high voltage to reignite. Discharge current increases with increase in magnetic field and starts reducing at sufficiently higher magnetic field for a particular discharge voltage due to restricted electron diffusion towards the anode. It is observed that B/P ratio plays an important role in sustaining the discharge and is constant for a discharge voltage. The discharge is transformed to negative space charge regime from positive space charge regime at certain B/P ratio and this ratio varies linearly with the discharge voltage. The space charge reversal is indicated by the radial profile of the floating potential and plasma potential in between two electrodes for different magnetic fields. At a particular higher magnetic field (beyond 100 gauss), the floating potential increases gradually with the radial distance from cathode, whereas it remains almost constant at lower magnetic field.
Synthesis and Photocleavage of Quinoline Methyl Ethers: A Mild and Efficient Method for the Selective Protection and Deprotection of the Alcohol Functionality
Authors: Provatas Anthony A. , Epling Gary A. , Stuart James D.
Published: January 2016

The synthesis and photocleavage of quinolinyl methyl ether-protected alcohols is reported in this study. A variety of quinoline methyl chlorides were synthesized, and protection of the various alcohols was performed via a substitution reaction in the presence of a strong base. Photocleavage of the quinolinyl methyl ether moiety proceeded under visible light with the formation of the charged quinolinyl radical intermediate through a single-electron transfer in the presence of a photosensitizer dye leading to the deprotected alcohol in excellent yields. The utility of triethylamine as a sacrificial reductant and d-sorbitol as a radical scavenger were also investigated in this study.
Synthesis of Sulfonyldiazomethanes and Acetyldiazomethanes via an Alumina-Mediated Decarboxylation Strategy
Authors: Yan Yiyong , Ma Gaoyuan , Wei Wei , Zhao Jing
Published: January 2016

Diazo compounds are widely adopted in organic synthesis due to their carbine characteristics. One of the most interesting diazo compounds is diazolsulfonyl. Here, in the current study, we found that diazolsufonyl compounds could be prepared with moderate to excellent yield through decarboxylation of diazosulfonyl acetates by neutral alumina. We hope that this mild and simple method might inspire wider application of these useful compounds.
High rates of chlamydia found among 12- to 16-year-olds attending a rural sexual health clinic: implications for practice
Authors: Tomnay Jane Elizabeth , Coelli Lauren , Hocking Jane Simone
Published: January 2016

Background Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed bacterial sexually transmissible infection (STI) and is asymptomatic in ~80% of women. If untreated, potential consequences include pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Methods: In 2014, a retrospective audit was undertaken at a rural service to determine what proportion of patients were aged 12–16 years, infected with chlamydia and their reasons for attending the clinic. Results: There were 111 patients aged 12–16 years attending during 2011–2014; 104 (95%) were female. One hundred and ninety-four chlamydia tests were conducted, with the proportion of patients having at least one test annually being 100% in 2011, 81% in 2012, 72% in 2013 and 78% in 2014. There was no difference in the proportion tested by age during the study (P = 0.59). Forty-six tests were positive for chlamydia (23.7%; 95%CI: 17.8%, 30.9%) with proportions decreasing with increasing age from 46.7% (95%CI: 16.4%, 79.5%) in 12- or 13-year-olds to 15.5% (95%CI: 9.4%, 24.2%) in 16-year-olds (P = 0.02). The reasons for attending when a chlamydia test was ordered included: (i) fear of pregnancy (18.3%, 34/185); (ii) symptoms (16.7%, 31/185); (iii) STI test/treatment (32.4%, 60/185); and (iv) contraception (32.4%, 60/185). Only 29.7% (33/111) would have been tested if symptoms or requesting a test were impetus. Conclusion: Sexually active 12- to 16-year-olds should be tested for chlamydia, and establishing their sexual history is crucial. Amending the current Australian guidelines to annual testing of any sexually active person under the age of 30 years should be considered.
Prevalence of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomonas in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Graham Simon , Smith Lucy Watchirs , Fairley Christopher K. , Hocking Jane
Published: January 2016

Higher notification rates of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) are reported among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Aboriginal) compared with non-Aboriginal people in Australia. The aim of this study is to estimate the pooled prevalence of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomonas among Aboriginal people in Australia by sex, age-group, setting (clinic vs population/community-based) and population group [adults, pregnant females, young people (12–29 years) and prisoners]. The databases Medline, PubMed and Web of Science were searched in May 2015. A meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of the four STIs in Aboriginal people and if possible, by gender, age-group, setting and population group. A total of 46 studies were included. The pooled prevalence was 11.2% (95%CI: 9.4–13.0%) for chlamydia (36 studies), 12.5% (95%CI: 10.5–14.6%) for gonorrhoea (28 studies), 16.8% (95%CI: 11.0–22.6%) for syphilis (13 studies) and 22.6% (95%CI: 18.5–26.7%) for trichomonas (11 studies); however, there was significant heterogeneity between studies (I2 <97.5%, P < 0.01). In the subgroup analysis, a higher pooled prevalence occurred in females than males for chlamydia (12.7% vs 7.7%) and gonorrhoea (10.7% vs 8.1%). The prevalence of chlamydia was 12.4% in clinic-based compared with 4.3% in population-based studies. The highest pooled prevalence by population group was among pregnant females (16.8%) and young people (16.2%) for chlamydia, pregnant females (25.2%) for trichomonas; and young people for gonorrhoea (11.9%). This review highlights the need to decrease the prevalence of STIs among Aboriginal people through community-based programs that target asymptomatic young people.
Synthesis and crystal structure of a two-dimensional sodium coordination polymer of 4,4′-(diazenediyl)bis(1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-one)
Authors: Guo Jiajia , Cao Wenli , Li Shuailei , Miao Kanghua , Song Jirong , Huang Jie
Published: January 2016

The crystal engineering of coordination polymers has aroused interest due to their structural versatility, unique properties and applications in different areas of science. The selection of appropriate ligands as building blocks is critical in order to afford a range of topologies. Alkali metal cations are known for their mainly ionic chemistry in aqueous media. Their coordination number varies depending on the size of the binding partners, and on the electrostatic interaction between the ligands and the metal ions. The two-dimensional coordination polymer poly[tetra-μ-aqua-[μ4-4,4′-(diazenediyl)bis(5-oxo-1H-1,2,4-triazolido)]disodium(I)], [Na2(C4H2N8O2)(H2O)4]n, (I), was synthesized from 4-amino-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5(4H)-one (ATO) and its single-crystal structure determined. The mid-point of the imino N=N bond of the 4,4′-(diazenediyl)bis(5-oxo-1H-1,2,4-triazolide) (ZTO2−) ligand is located on an inversion centre. The asymmetric unit consists of one Na+cation, half a bridging ZTO2−ligand and two bridging water ligands. Each Na+cation is coordinated in a trigonal antiprismatic fashion by six O atoms,i.e.two from two ZTO2−ligands and the remaining four from bridging water ligands. The Na+cation is located near a glide plane, thus the two bridging O atoms from the two coordinating ZTO2−ligands are on adjacent apices of the trigonal antiprism, rather than being in ananticonfiguration. All water and ZTO2−ligands act as bridging ligands between metal centres. Each Na+metal centre is bridged to a neigbouring Na+cation by two water molecules to give a one-dimensional [Na(H2O)2]nchain. The organic ZTO2−ligand, an O atom of which also bridges the same pair of Na+cations, then crosslinks these [Na(H2O)2]nchains to form two-dimensional sheets. The two-dimensional sheets are further connected by intermolecular hydrogen bonds, giving rise to a stabile hydrogen-bonded network.
Crystal structure of diethyl 3-(3-chlorophenyl)-2,2-dicyanocyclopropane-1,1-dicarboxylate
Authors: May Nóra Veronika , Gál Gyula Tamás , Rapi Zsolt , Bakó Péter
Published: January 2016

In the racemic title compound, C17H15ClN2O4, which has been synthesized and the crystal structure of the solvent-free molecule determined, the angle between the planes of the benzene and cyclopropane rings is 54.29 (10)°. The molecular conformation is stabilized by two weak intramolecular C—H...Ocarboxylinteractions. In the crystal, C—H...O hydrogen bonds form centrosymmetric cyclicR22(10) dimers which are linked into chain substructures extending alongc. Further C—H...Nnitrilehydrogen bonding, including a centrosymmetric cyclicR22(14) association, link the chain substructures, forming a two-dimensional layered structure extending across the approximateabplane. No significant π–π or halogen–halogen intermolecular interactions are present in the crystal.
Policing and street triage
Authors: Cummins Ian , Edmondson David
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– In his recent report, Lord Adebowale (2013) described mental health issues as “core police business”. The recent retrenchment in mental health and wider public services mean that the demands on the police in this area are likely to increase. Mental health triage is a concept that has been adapted from general and mental health nursing for use in a policing context. The overall aim of triage is to ensure more effective health outcomes and the more effective use of resources. The purpose of this paper is to examine the current policy and practice in this area. It then goes on to explore the models of mental health triage that have been developed to try and improve working between mental health services and the police.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper outlines the main themes in the research literature regarding mental illness and policing, including a brief overview of section 136 MHA. It then examines recently developed models of triage as applied in these settings.

Findings

– The models of triage that have been examined here have developed in response to local organisational, demographic and other factors. The approaches have two key features – the improved training for officers and improved liaison with mental health services.

Practical implications

– Wider mental health training for officers and improved liaison with community-based services are the key to improving police contacts.

Social implications

– The current pressure on mental health services has increased the role that the police have in responding to these sorts of emergencies. This situation is unlikely to change in the short term.

Originality/value

– This paper contributes to the wider debate about policing and mental illness. It highlights the fact that section 136 MHA use has tended to dominate debates in this area to the detriment of a broader discussion of the police role.
Assessing the readiness of facilities management organizations in implementing knowledge management systems
Authors: Kamaruzzaman Syahrul Nizam , Zawawi Emma Marinie Ahmad , Shafie Muhaimin Ooyub , Mohd Noor Siti Nur Aishah
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to assess the readiness of Malaysian facilities management (FM) organizations in implementing knowledge management (KM) systems.

Design/methodology/approach

– The questionnaire survey was used to retrieve information on the readiness of FM organizations in Malaysia.

Findings

– The findings reveal that, although many FM organizations were capable and ready in terms of information technology, lack of human behaviour and organizational policy is still seen. Technology, policy and human behaviour are the factors that have a strong influence on the successful outcome of KM.

Originality/value

– This paper fulfils an identified need to study in implementing KM systems.
Assessing impacts to Tennessee State Park infrastructure caused by extreme weather events
Authors: Abkowitz Brooks Kendra , Clarke James
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe a risk-based methodology developed to identify the severity of impacts to various types of infrastructure located within the Tennessee State Park system when exposed to extreme weather events. Infrastructure systems, composed of various assets, are central to the economic, environmental and cultural functioning of the society. Understanding the potential impacts to these assets from various threats is fundamental to prudent strategic, operational and financial decision-making. Among infrastructure, systems of interest are those managed and operated by park services. Such systems are particularly exposed to extreme weather, given the recreational activities that they provide.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper describes a risk-based methodology developed to identify the severity of impacts to various types of infrastructure located within the Tennessee State Park system when exposed to extreme weather events. It consists of the following steps: identifying extreme weather event types experienced in Tennessee; assessing damage to various types of park system infrastructure caused by these events; and deriving an overall impact score associated with specific types of park system infrastructure when exposed to certain types of extreme weather scenarios.

Findings

– In applying this methodology, tornadic events were found to be most impactful, whereas drought and heat events had the least effect on park infrastructure. Dining and lodging infrastructure were found to incur the most damage, regardless of the weather event type.

Originality/value

– The approach as described in this paper is transferable to other park systems as well as public sector assets in general.