bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternatives to Traditional EMS Dispatch and Transport: A Scoping Review of Reported Outcomes
Authors: Jensen Jan L. , Carter Alix J.E. , Rose Jennifer , Visintini Sarah , Bourdon Emmanuelle , Brown Ryan , McVey Jennifer , Travers Andrew H.
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Emergency medical services (EMS) programs, which provide an alternative to traditional EMS dispatch or transport to the emergency department (ED), are becoming widely implemented. This scoping review identified and catalogued all outcomes used to measure such alternative EMS programs.

Data Source

Broad systematized bibliographic and grey literature searches were conducted.

Study Selection

Inclusion criteria were 911 callers/EMS patients, reported on alternatives to traditional EMS dispatch OR traditional EMS transport to the ED, and reported an outcome measure.

Data Extraction

The reports were categorized as either alternative to dispatch or to EMS transport, and outcome measures were categorized and described.

Data Synthesis

The bibliographic search retrieved 13,215 records, of which 34 articles met the inclusion criteria, with an additional 10 added from reference list hand-searching (n=44 included). In the grey literature search, 31 websites were identified, from which four met criteria and were retrieved (n=4 included). Fifteen reports (16 studies) described alternatives to EMS dispatch, and 33 reports described alternatives to EMS transport. The most common outcomes reported in the alternatives to EMS dispatch reports were service utilization and decision accuracy. Twenty-four different specific outcomes were reported. The most common outcomes reported in the alternatives to EMS transport reports were service utilization and safety, and 50 different specific outcomes were reported.

Conclusions

Numerous outcome measures were identified in reports of alternative EMS programs, which were catalogued and described. Researchers and program leaders should achieve consensus on uniform outcome measures, to allow benchmarking and improve comparison across programs.
Isolated transient aphasia at emergency presentation is associated with a high rate of cardioembolic embolism
Authors: Wasserman Jason K. , Perry Jeffrey J. , Dowlatshahi Dar , Stotts Grant , Sivilotti Marco L. A. , Worster Andrew , Emond Marcel , Sutherland Jane , Stiell Ian G. , Sharma Mukul
Published: March 2015

Objective

A cardiac source is often implicated in strokes where the deficit includes aphasia. However, less is known about the etiology of isolated aphasia during transient ischemic attack (TIA). Our objective was to determine whether patients with isolated aphasia are likely to have a cardioembolic etiology for their TIA.

Methods

We prospectively studied a cohort of TIA patients in eight tertiary-care emergency departments. Patients with isolated aphasia were identified by the treating physician at the time of emergency department presentation. Patients with dysarthria (i.e., a phonation disturbance) were not included. Potential cardiac sources for embolism were defined as atrial fibrillation on history, electrocardiogram, Holter monitor, atrial fibrillation on echocardiography, or thrombus on echocardiography.

Results

Of the 2,360 TIA patients identified, 1,155 had neurological deficits at the time of the emergency physician assessment and were included in this analysis, and 41 had isolated aphasia as their only neurological deficit. Patients with isolated aphasia were older (73.9±10.0 v. 67.2±14.5 years; p=0.003), more likely to have a history of heart failure (9.8% v. 2.6%; p=0.027), and were twice as likely to have any cardiac source of embolism (22.0% v. 10.6%; p=0.037).

Conclusions

Isolated aphasia is associated with a high rate of cardioembolic sources of embolism after TIA. Emergency patients with isolated aphasia diagnosed with a TIA warrant a rapid and thorough assessment for a cardioembolic source.
A REFINED WARING PROBLEM FOR FINITE SIMPLE GROUPS
Authors: LARSEN MICHAEL , TIEP PHAM HUU
Published: March 2015

Let$w_{1}$and$w_{2}$be nontrivial words in free groups$F_{n_{1}}$and$F_{n_{2}}$, respectively. We prove that, for all sufficiently large finite nonabelian simple groups$G$, there exist subsets$C_{1}\subseteq w_{1}(G)$and$C_{2}\subseteq w_{2}(G)$such that$|C_{i}|=O(|G|^{1/2}\log ^{1/2}|G|)$and$C_{1}C_{2}=G$. In particular, if$w$is any nontrivial word and$G$is a sufficiently large finite nonabelian simple group, then$w(G)$contains a thin base of order$2$. This is a nonabelian analog of a result of Van Vu [‘On a refinement of Waring’s problem’, Duke Math. J. 105(1) (2000), 107–134.] for the classical Waring problem. Further results concerning thin bases of$G$of order$2$are established for any finite group and for any compact Lie group$G$.
Denominator Doesn’t Matter: Standardizing Healthcare-Associated Infection Rates by Bed Days or Device Days
Authors: Horstman Molly J. , Li Yu-Fang , Almenoff Peter L. , Freyberg Ron W. , Trautner Barbara W.
Published: March 2015

OBJECTIVE

To examine the impact on infection rates and hospital rank for catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI), and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) using device days and bed days as the denominator

DESIGN

Retrospective survey from October 2010 to July 2013

SETTING

Veterans Health Administration medical centers providing acute medical and surgical care

PATIENTS

Patients admitted to 120 Veterans Health Administration medical centers reporting healthcare-associated infections

METHODS

We examined the importance of using device days and bed days as the denominator between infection rates and hospital rank for CAUTI, CLABSI, and VAP for each medical center. The relationship between device days and bed days as the denominator was assessed using a Pearson correlation, and changes in infection rates and device utilization were evaluated by an analysis of variance.

RESULTS

A total of 7.9 million bed days were included. From 2011 to 2013, CAUTI decreased whether measured by device days (2.32 to 1.64, P=.001) or bed days (4.21 to 3.02, P=.006). CLABSI decreased when measured by bed days (1.67 to 1.19, P=.04). VAP rates and device utilization ratios for CAUTI, CLABSI, and VAP were not statistically different across time. Infection rates calculated with device days were strongly correlated with infection rates calculated with bed days (r=0.79–0.94, P<.001). Hospital relative performance measured by ordered rank was also strongly correlated for both denominators (r=0.82–0.96, P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that device days and bed days are equally effective adjustment metrics for comparing healthcare-associated infection rates between hospitals in the setting of stable device utilization.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2015;00(0): 1–7
Attenuated acute salivary α-amylase responses to gustatory stimulation with citric acid in thin children
Authors: Chen Long Hui , Yang Ze Min , Chen Wei Wen , Lin Jing , Zhang Min , Yang Xiao Rong , Zhao Ling Bo
Published: March 2015

Salivary α-amylase (sAA) is responsible for the ‘pre-digestion’ of starch in the oral cavity and accounts for up to 50 % of salivary protein in human saliva. An accumulating body of literature suggests that sAA is of nutritional importance; however, it is still not clear how sAA is related to individual's nutritional status. Although copy number variations (CNV) of the salivary amylase gene (AMY1) are associated with variation in sAA levels, a significant amount of sAA variation is not explained by AMY1 CNV. To measure sAA responses to gustatory stimulation with citric acid, we used sAA ratio (the ratio of stimulated sAA levels to those of resting sAA) and investigated acute sAA responses to citric acid in children with normal (Normal-BMI, n 22) and low (Low-BMI, n 21) BMI. The AMY1 gene copy number was determined by quantitative PCR. We, for the first time, demonstrated attenuated acute sAA responses (decreased sAA ratio) to gustatory stimulation in Low-BMI (thinness grade 3) children compared with the Normal-BMI children, which suggest that sAA responses to gustatory stimulation may be of nutritional importance. However, child's nutritional status was not directly related to their resting or stimulated sAA levels, and it was not associated with AMY1 gene copy number. Finally, AMY1 CNV might influence, but did not eventually determine, sAA levels in children.
Implication of corticotropic hormone axis in eating behaviour pattern in obese and type 2 diabetic participants
Authors: Benbaibeche Hassiba , Haffaf El Mahdi , Kacimi Ghouti , Oudjit Brahim , Khan Naim Akhtar , Koceïr Elhadj Ahmed
Published: March 2015

In Algeria, eating behaviour has been increasingly deviated from its traditional Mediterranean diet to modern fast food style. The present study examines the interactions between eating behaviour pattern (EBP), corticotropic hormone axis and the metabolic syndrome. Our Algerian population cohort comprised of 410 participants (130 obese, 170 type 2 diabetics and 110 healthy participants). The EBP was evaluated by the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire test. The anthropometric and metabolic parameters (glucose, TAG, HDL, LDL and cholesterol) and the concentrations of hormones (insulin, adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), cortisol and growth hormone) were determined by biometrics, spectrophotometry and RIA, respectively. Multivariate analyses showed a high correlation between the EBP and the metabolic syndrome, particularly between insulin-resistant state and hypertrophy of visceral adipose tissue. Compared with healthy participants, obese ones showed the hyperphagic type of EBP, i.e. disinhibition and hunger disorders. Conversely, the diabetics showed both the hypophagic and hyperphagic type of EBP. In diabetic and obese participants, cortisol and ACTH secretions were significantly altered, leading to metabolic disorders. The present study confirms the role of EBP in obesity and diabetes.
Miracle Cures for a Suffering Nation: Sai Baba of Shirdi
Authors: Hardiman David
Published: March 2015

Sai Baba of Shirdi, who died in 1918, was raised as a Muslim but is today revered as a Hindu saint. One of his most important perceived qualities was his ability to provide miraculous cures for his devotees, and this has continued after his death. I argue here that the emphasis in the Hindu tradition on saintly figures healing the sick is a relatively modern phenomenon. Earlier, though such figures were renowned for their miracles, healing played a very minor part in this. Their miracles were generally designed to worst religious rivals and to enable them to speak truth to power. In the modern era, however, such saintly figures can gain a reputation through healing in a way that is presented as beyond the comprehension of modern medical science. Such people are seen to provide living evidence of the superiority of Indian civilization and its religious beliefs. This move became entangled with nationalist sentiments, so that getting the better of the “English” doctor became a means to reveal the limited scope of Western science and culture. Although this appears to suggest that many Indians have rejected the biopolitics associated with Western modernity (as defined by Foucault), I argue that certain elements of such biopolitics are central to this process, and illustrate this through a study of Sai Baba, a village holy man taken up by the Indian middle classes and made into a pan-Indian figure, with a now global presence.
Viral gene therapy for head and neck cancer
Authors: Hughes J P , Alusi G , Wang Y
Published: March 2015

Background:

Viral gene therapy is a promising new treatment modality for head and neck cancer. This paper provides the reader with a review of the relevant literature in this field.

Results:

There are government licensed viral gene therapy products currently in use for head and neck cancer, utilised in conjunction with established treatment modalities. The viruses target tumour-associated genes, with the first licensed virus replacing p53 gene function, which is frequently lost in tumourigenesis. Oncolytic viruses selectively destroy cancer cells through viral replication and can be armed with therapeutic transgenes.

Conclusion:

Despite considerable advances in this field over the last 40 years, further research is needed to improve the overall efficacy of the viruses and allow their widespread utilisation in the management of head and neck cancer.
The God of the groups
Authors: MCINTOSH CHAD A.
Published: March 2015

I argue that Social Trinitarians can and should conceive of God as agroup person. Theycanby drawing on recent theories of group agency realism that show how groups can be not just agents but persons distinct from their members – albeit, I argue, persons of a different kind. Theyshouldbecause the resultant novel view of the Trinity – that God is three ‘intrinsicist’ persons in one ‘functional’ person – is theologically sound, effectively counters the most trenchant criticisms of Social Trinitarianism, and enjoys independent theological support from the biblical notion of ‘corporate personality’.
A Defence of Average Utilitarianism
Authors: PRESSMAN MICHAEL
Published: March 2015

Seemingly every theory of population ethics is confronted with unpalatable implications. While various approaches to the subject have been taken, including non-consequentialist approaches, this area has been dominated by utilitarian thought. The two main approaches to population ethics have been total utilitarianism (‘TU’) and average utilitarianism (‘AU’). According to TU, we should seek to bring about the state of affairs that maximizes the total amount of happiness. According to AU, we should seek to bring about the state of affairs that maximizes average per capita happiness. Both theories have been afflicted by seemingly strong objections, and as a result, numerous variations and hybrids have been introduced. Despite the widespread disagreement in the field, though, a near consensus has developed in rejecting AU as an absurd view. In this article, however, I will go against the grain and argue that AU is the theory of population ethics that we should endorse.
Declaration of a State of Emergency in Trinidad and Tobago: Effect on the Trauma Admissions at the National Referral Trauma Centre
Authors: Ramdass Michael J. , Cawich Shamir O. , Pooran Suresh , Milne David , Ali Earnest , Naraynsingh Vijay
Published: March 2015

Objective

To determine the effect of a State of Emergency (SOE) on penetrating injuries at the main trauma center in Trinidad and Tobago.

Methods

Emergency room registers were accessed in order to identify all patients treated for penetrating injuries from July 1, 2010 through December 30, 2012. This study period was chosen to include injuries one year before and one year after the SOE that spanned from August 21, 2011 to December 5, 2011. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 19 and a P value <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There were 1,067 patients treated for penetrating injuries. There were significantly more injuries from gunshots compared to stab wounds (64.7% vs 35.3%; P<.001), and this pattern was maintained during the SOE (54.7% vs 45.3%; P=.37). There was a significant fall in mean monthly admissions for penetrating trauma during the SOE when compared to the 12-month period before its imposition (17.7, SD=4.0 vs 38.9, SD=12.3; CI, 5.6-36.8; P=.0108). One year later, mean monthly admissions for penetrating trauma were similar to those during the SOE (22.7, SD=2.1 vs 17.6, SD=4.0; CI, -2.3-12.3; P=.1295). The incidence of gunshot wounds remained low and stab wounds increased.

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated that there was a reduction in the incidence of penetrating trauma at the national trauma center after the SOE, with a shift from gunshot to stab wounds.

RamdassMJ, CawichSO, PooranS, MilneD, AliE, NaraynsinghV.Declaration of a state of emergency in Trinidad and Tobago: effect on the trauma admissions at the National Referral Trauma Centre. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2015;30(3):14.
Construction of a SXES spectrometer for a conventional SEM
Authors: Terauchi M. , Koshiya S. , Satoh F. , Takahashi H. , Handa N. , Murano T. , Koike M. , Imazono T. , Koeda M. , Nagano T. , Sasai H. , Oue Y. , Yonezawa Z. , Kuramoto S.
Published: March 2015

Extended abstract of a paper presented at Microscopy and Microanalysis 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, August 4 – August 8, 2013.
CUT FOR CLASSICAL CORE LOGIC
Authors: TENNANT NEIL
Published: March 2015

In an earlier paper in this journal I provided detailed motivation for the constructive and relevant system of Core Logic; explained its main features; and established that, even though Cut is not a rule of the system, nevertheless Cut is admissible for it, and indeed with potential epistemic gain. If Π is a proof of the sequent Δ : A, and Σ is a proof of the sequent Г, A : θ, then there is a computable reduct [Π, Σ] of some subsequent of the ‘overall target sequent’ Δ, Г : θ. In the constructive case the potential epistemic gain consists in the possibility that the subsequent in question be a proper subsequent of Δ, Г : θ, and indeed even logically stronger than Δ, Г : θ.

In this paper it is established that Cut is likewise admissible for Classical Core Logic, which is obtained from Core Logic by adding a suitably relevantized form of the rule of Classical Dilemma. In the classical case there is an additional feature of potential epistemic gain: the proof [Π, Σ] might have a lower degree of non-constructivity than do Π and Σ.
Case-finding in der hausärztlichen Praxis und neuropsychologische Diagnostik an einer Memory Clinic
Authors: Monsch Andreas U.
Published: March 2015

Für die Verbesserung der Früherkennung von Hirnleistungsstörungen im Alter sollte eine case-finding Strategie verwendet werden: nur „verdächtige“ Patienten werden beim Hausarzt mit einem sehr kurzen Untersuchungsinstrument untersucht. Der neu entwickelte BrainCheck besteht aus drei Fragen, dem Uhrentest und einem kurzen Fragebogen für die Angehörigen. Eine Schweizer Validierungsstudie an 113 Patienten und 70 Gesunden zeigte eine Trennschärfe von 89 % (Sensitivität 97 %, Spezifität 82 %). Bei der neuropsychologischen Untersuchung an einer Memory Clinic ist entscheidend, dass für die Beurteilung der kognitiven Funktionen gut normierte Instrumente verwendet werden, die Alter, Ausbildung und Geschlecht berücksichtigen. Im DSM-5 wird neu der Begriff leichte und schwere neurokognitive Störung eingeführt. Eine wesentliche Verbesserung stellt die Auflistung der kognitiven Domänen dar, wobei für die Domäne soziale Kognition heute noch keine brauchbaren Untersuchungsinstrumente zur Verfügung stehen.
Reaffirming the Social Contract Between Science and Society
Authors: Hooke William
Published: March 2015

Our geosciences community too often gives the impression that we care primarily about more funding for our research. Such overt self-interest poses risks to our community and to society.
Metabolic Connectivity as Index of Verbal Working Memory
Authors: Zou Na , Chetelat Gael , Baydogan Mustafa G , Li Jing , Fischer Florian U , Titov Dmitry , Dukart Juergen , Fellgiebel Andreas , Schreckenberger Mathias , Yakushev Igor
Published: March 2015

Positron emission tomography (PET) data are commonly analyzed in terms of regional intensity, while covariant information is not taken into account. Here, we searched for network correlates of healthy cognitive function in resting state PET data. PET with [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose and a test of verbal working memory (WM) were administered to 35 young healthy adults. Metabolic connectivity was modeled at a group level using sparse inverse covariance estimation. Among 13 WM-relevant Brodmann areas (BAs), 6 appeared to be robustly connected. Connectivity within this network was significantly stronger in subjects with above-median WM performance. In respect to regional intensity, i.e., metabolism, no difference between groups was found. The results encourage examination of covariant patterns in FDG-PET data from non-neurodegenerative populations.
Designed angiopoietin-1 variant, COMP-angiopoietin-1, rescues erectile function through healthy cavernous angiogenesis in a hypercholesterolemic mouse
Authors: Ryu Ji-Kan , Kim Woo Jean , Koh Young Jun , Piao Shuguang , Jin Hai-Rong , Lee Sae-Won , Choi Min Ji , Shin Hwa-Yean , Kwon Mi-Hye , Jung Keehoon , Koh Gou Young , Suh Jun-Kyu
Published: March 2015

Despite the advent of oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, curative treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) remains unavailable. Recently, the link between ED and cardiovascular disease was unveiled and the main etiology of ED was found to be vasculogenic. Therefore, neovascularization is a promising strategy for curing ED. Angiopoietin-1 (Ang1) is an angiogenic growth factor that promotes the generation of stable and functional vasculature. Here, we demonstrate that local delivery of the soluble, stable and potent Ang1 variant, COMP-Ang1 gene or protein, into the penises of hypercholesterolemic mice increases cavernous angiogenesis, eNOS phosphorylation and cGMP expression, resulting in full recovery of erectile function and cavernous blood flow up to 8 weeks after treatment. COMP-Ang1-induced promotion of cavernous angiogenesis and erectile function was abolished inNos3-/-mice and in the presence of the NOS inhibitor, L-NAME. COMP-Ang1 also restored the integrity of endothelial cell-cell junction by down-regulating the expression of histone deacetylase 2 in the penis of hypercholesterolemic mice and in primary cultured mouse cavernous endothelial cells. These findings constitute a new paradigm toward curative treatment of both cavernous angiopathy and ED.
Anatomy of vertical heteroepitaxial interfaces reveals the memristive mechanism in Nb2O5-NaNbO3 thin films
Authors: Li Linglong , Lu Lu , Wang Zhiguang , Li Yanxi , Yao Yonggang , Zhang Dawei , Yang Guang , Yao Jianjun , Viehland Dwight , Yang Yaodong
Published: March 2015

Dynamic oxygen vacancies play a significant role in memristive switching materials and memristors can be realized via well controlled doping. Based on this idea we deposite Nb2O5-NaNbO3 nanocomposite thin films on SrRuO3-buffered LaAlO3 substrates. Through the spontaneous phase separation and self-assembly growth, two phases form clear vertical heteroepitaxial nanostructures. The interfaces between niobium oxide and sodium niobate full of ion vacancies form the conductive channels. Alternative I-V behavior attributed to dynamic ion migration reveals the memristive switching mechanism under the external bias. We believe that this phenomenon has a great potential in future device applications.
Security of quantum digital signatures for classical messages
Authors: Wang Tian-Yin , Cai Xiao-Qiu , Ren Yan-Li , Zhang Rui-Ling
Published: March 2015

Quantum digital signatures can be used to authenticate classical messages in an information-theoretically secure way. Previously, a novel quantum digital signature for classical messages has been proposed and gave an experimental demonstration of distributing quantum digital signatures from one sender to two receivers. Some improvement versions were subsequently presented, which made it more feasible with present technology. These proposals for quantum digital signatures are basic building blocks which only deal with the problem of sending single bit messages while no-forging and non-repudiation are guaranteed. For a multi-bit message, it is only mentioned that the basic building blocks must be iterated, but the iteration of the basic building block still does not suffice to define the entire protocol. In this paper, we show that it is necessary to define the entire protocol because some attacks will arise if these building blocks are used in a naive way of iteration. Therefore, we give a way of defining an entire protocol to deal with the problem of sending multi-bit messages based on the basic building blocks and analyse its security.
Using size-selected gold clusters on graphene oxide films to aid cryo-transmission electron tomography alignment
Authors: Arkill Kenton P. , Mantell Judith M. , Plant Simon R. , Verkade Paul , Palmer Richard E.
Published: March 2015

A three-dimensional reconstruction of a nano-scale aqueous object can be achieved by taking a series of transmission electron micrographs tilted at different angles in vitreous ice: cryo-Transmission Electron Tomography. Presented here is a novel method of fine alignment for the tilt series. Size-selected gold clusters of ~2.7 nm (Au561 ± 14), ~3.2 nm (Au923 ± 22) and ~4.3 nm (Au2057 ± 45) in diameter were deposited onto separate graphene oxide films overlaying holes on amorphous carbon grids. After plunge freezing and subsequent transfer to cryo-Transmission Electron Tomography, the resulting tomograms have excellent (de-)focus and alignment properties during automatic acquisition. Fine alignment is accurate when the evenly distributed 3.2 nm gold particles are used as fiducial markers, demonstrated with a reconstruction of a tobacco mosaic virus. Using a graphene oxide film means the fiducial markers are not interfering with the ice bound sample and that automated collection is consistent. The use of pre-deposited size-selected clusters means there is no aggregation and a user defined concentration. The size-selected clusters are mono-dispersed and can be produced in a wide size range including 2–5 nm in diameter. The use of size-selected clusters on a graphene oxide films represents a significant technical advance for 3D cryo-electron microscopy.
Si-CSP9 regulates the integument and moulting process of larvae in the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta
Authors: Cheng Daifeng , Lu Yongyue , Zeng Ling , Liang Guangwen , He Xiaofang
Published: March 2015

Chemosensory proteins (CSPs) have been predicted to be involved in development; however, direct evidence for their involvement is lacking and genetic basis is largely unknown. To determine the function of the chemosensory protein 9 (Si-CSP9) gene inSolenopsis invicta,we used RNA interference to silenceSi-CSP9in 3rd-instar larvae. The 3rd-instar larvae failed to shed their cuticle after being fedSi-CSP9-directed siRNA and expression profiling of RNAi-treated and untreated control larvae showed that 375 genes were differentially expressed. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that 4 pathways associated with larval development were significantly enriched. Blast analysis revealed that one fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) gene was up-regulated and 4 fatty acid synthase (FAT) genes and one protein kinase DC2 gene (PKA) were down-regulated in the enriched pathways. Significantly higher expression of these genes was found in 4th-instar larvae and Pearson correlation analysis of the expression patterns revealed significant relationships amongSi-CSP9, PKA, FAAHandFAT1-4. Moreover, we confirmed that expression levels ofSi-CSP9, FAAH,andFAT1-4were significantly reduced and that the development of 3rd-instar larvae was halted withPKAsilencing. These results suggest thatSi-CSP9andPKAmay be involved in the network that contributes to development of 3rd-instar larvae.
Quantitative analysis of retinal layers' optical intensities on 3D optical coherence tomography for central retinal artery occlusion
Authors: Chen Haoyu , Chen Xinjian , Qiu Zhiqiao , Xiang Dehui , Chen Weiqi , Shi Fei , Zheng Jianlong , Zhu Weifang , Sonka Milan
Published: March 2015

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides not only morphological information but also information about layer-specific optical intensities, which may represent the underlying tissue properties. The purpose of this study is to quantitatively investigate the optical intensity of each retinal layers in central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). Twenty-nine CRAO cases at acute phase and 33 normal controls were included. Macula-centered 3D OCT images were segmented with a fully-automated Iowa Reference Algorithm into 10 layers. Layer-specific mean intensities were determined and compared between the patient and control groups using multiple regression analysis while adjusting for age and optical intensity of the entire region. The optical intensities were higher in CRAO than in controls in layers spanning from the retinal ganglion cell layer to outer plexiform layer (standardized beta = 0.657 to 0.777, all p < 0.001), possibly due to ischemia. Optical intensities were lower at the photoreceptor, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid layers (standardized beta = −0.412 to −0.611, all p < 0.01), possibly due to shadowing effects. Among the intraretinal layers, the inner nuclear layer was identified as the best indicator of CRAO. Our study provides in vivo information of the optical intensity changes in each retinal layer in CRAO patients.
A novel tunable blue-green-emitting CaGdGaAl2O7:Ce3+,Tb3+ phosphor via energy transfer for UV-excited white LEDs
Authors: Liang Chao , You Hongpeng , Fu Yibing , Teng Xiaoming , Liu Kai , He Jinhua
Published: March 2015

By tuning the relative content of the doped ions, tunable blue-green emission can be obtained by irradiation at 365 nm.
Molybdenum incorporated mesoporous silica catalyst for production of biofuels and value-added chemicals via catalytic fast pyrolysis
Authors: Budhi Sridhar , Mukarakate Calvin , Iisa Kristiina , Pylypenko Svitlana , Ciesielski Peter N. , Yung Matthew M. , Donohoe Bryon S. , Katahira Rui , Nimlos Mark R. , Trewyn Brian G.
Published: March 2015

Production of furans and phenols from biomass through catalytic fast pyrolysis of pine using Mo-supported KIT-5 mesoporous silica was explored.
Tris-hydroxymethylaminomethane (THAM): a novel organocatalyst for a environmentally benign synthesis of medicinally important tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans and pyran-annulated heterocycles
Authors: Pandit Kapil S. , Chavan Pramod V. , Desai Uday V. , Kulkarni Makarand A. , Wadgaonkar Prakash P.
Published: March 2015

Tris-hydroxymethylaminomethane (THAM): a novel, low cost, green catalyst for the synthesis of medicinally important pyrans and pyran-annulated heterocycles.
Enhanced visible-light-driven photoactivities of single-walled carbon nanotubes coated with N doped TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Gao Tianyu , Sun Guocheng , Cheng Feiyue , Dai Ke , Chen Hao , Deng Kejian , Huang Qiaoyun
Published: March 2015

Synergetic effects of SWCNT modification and N doping generate superior visible-light-induced photocatalytic activity of SWCNT–N/TiO2 to MWCNT–N/TiO2 and DWCNT–N/TiO2.
Excellent graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets-based photoelectrochemical platform motivated by Schottky barrier and LSPR effect and its sensing application
Authors: Dai Hong , Zhang Shupei , Li Yilin , Lin Yanyu
Published: March 2015

A visible light responsive photocatalytic hybrid with excellent photoelectrochemical activity was first fabricated via the self-assembly of Au nanorods onto poly(l-cysteine) modified graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets.
Solution scanometry, a new method for determination of acidity constants of indicators
Authors: Shokrollahi Ardeshir , Zarghampour Fereshteh , Akbari Sima , Salehi Ayda
Published: March 2015

Solution scanometry, a new, simple, fast, available and inexpensive method for the determination of the acidity constant, pKa, of indicators.
Interrogating target-specificity by parallel screening of a DNA-encoded chemical library against closely related proteins
Authors: Franzini Raphael M. , Nauer Angela , Scheuermann Jörg , Neri Dario
Published: March 2015

Screening a DNA-encoded chemical library against closely related proteins enabled us to predict target specificity as illustrated for serum albumins from different species.
Synthesis of the first completely spin-compatible N@C60 cyclopropane derivatives by carefully tuning the DBU base catalyst
Authors: Zhou Shen , Rašović Ilija , Briggs G. Andrew D. , Porfyrakis Kyriakos
Published: March 2015

Two cyclopropane derivatives of N@C60 were synthesised by well-controlled Bingel reactions, in which 94% of the spin centres were retained, as confirmed by a series of quantitative electron spin paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements.
Ligand-promoted intramolecular dehydrogenative cross-coupling using a Cu catalyst: direct access to polycyclic heteroarenes
Authors: Ray Devalina , Manikandan T. , Roy Arup , Tripathi Krishna N. , Singh Ravi P.
Published: March 2015

A copper(ii)-promoted intramolecular C–H coupling reaction between indole-2 and imidazole-2 moieties, which provides direct access to biheteroaryl incorporated polycyclic frameworks.
Syntheses, topological structures and properties of six metal–organic frameworks constructed from a flexible tetracarboxylate ligand
Authors: Peng Yu , Li Guanghua , Hua Jia , Shi Zhan , Feng Shouhua
Published: March 2015

Six new metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), Co2O(odip)(py)2(DMSO)2·3H2O (1), Co2(odip)(H2O)(DMA)2·2DMA (2), Co4(odip)2(H2O)4(DMSO)2·5DMSO (3), [Zn2(odip)(DMF)2(H2O)]·2DMF·2H2O (4), Zn2(odip)(H2O) (5) and In(odip)·3ACN (6), have been synthesized from the 5,5′-oxydiisophthalic acid (H4odip) ligand under solvothermal conditions.
Hydrogen bonding and π–π interactions in imidazolium-chloride ionic liquid clusters
Authors: Matthews Richard P. , Welton Tom , Hunt Patricia A.
Published: March 2015

The importance of 1° and 2° hydrogen-bonding and anion–π+ interactions for ionic liquid structuring.
Attrition-resistant Ni–Mg/Al2O3 catalyst for fluidized bed syngas methanation
Authors: Cui Dianmiao , Liu Jiao , Yu Jian , Su Fabing , Xu Guangwen
Published: March 2015

Investigating the granular Ni–Mg/Al2O3 prepared by different binders has demonstrated that the used binder is critical to the attrition strength and catalytic activity for syngas methanation of the resulting catalysts.
The nature of the bonding in symmetrical pincer palladacycles
Authors: Boonseng Sarote , Roffe Gavin W. , Spencer John , Cox Hazel
Published: March 2015

A method validation, formation reactionviaC–H bond activation, and an Atoms in Molecules analysis of symmetrical pincer palladacycles.
The effect of chlorine and fluorine substitutions on tuning the ionization potential of benzoate-bridged paddlewheel diruthenium(ii,ii) complexes
Authors: Kosaka Wataru , Itoh Masahisa , Miyasaka Hitoshi
Published: March 2015

A series of paddlewheel diruthenium(ii,ii) complexes with various chlorine- and fluorine-substituted benzoate ligands was summarized in viewpoints of their electrochemistry and HOMO level.
One-pot two-step synthesis of core–shell mesoporous silica-coated gold nanoparticles
Authors: Song Ji-Tao , Zhang Xiao-Shuai , Qin Meng-Yao , Zhao Yuan-Di
Published: March 2015

Gold nanoparticles coated with mesoporous silica (Au@mSiO2) have been prepared by a facile one-pot two-step method.
Rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric addition of arylboronic acids to cyclic N-sulfonyl ketimines towards the synthesis of α,α-diaryl-α-amino acid derivatives
Authors: Takechi Ryosuke , Nishimura Takahiro
Published: March 2015

Rhodium/chiral diene complex-catalyzed asymmetric addition of arylboronic acids to cyclic ketimines having an ester group proceeded to give the corresponding α-amino acid derivatives in high yields with high enantioselectivity.
Hollow double-layered polymer microspheres with pH and thermo-responsive properties as nitric oxide-releasing reservoirs
Authors: Liu Tuanwei , Zhang Wei , Song Tao , Yang Xinlin , Li Chenxi
Published: March 2015

TheN-diazeniumdiolated hollow double-layered P(AmEMA-co-EGDMA)/P(NIPAAm-co-DMAEMA-co-EGDMA) microspheres (NO as 3.0 μmol mg−1) show a steady NO release behavior in a wide range of pHs (5–9) and temperatures (20–55 °C).
A low-temperature n-propanol gas sensor based on TeO2 nanowires as the sensing layer
Authors: Shen Yanbai , Fan Anfeng , Wei Dezhou , Gao Shuling , Liu Wengang , Han Cong , Cui Baoyu
Published: March 2015

TeO2 nanowires with high surface-to-volume ratio and large mass production were synthesized by thermal evaporation method and showed a reversible response and quick response–recovery speed to n-propanol gas at low operating temperatures.
One step production of in situ nitrogen doped mesoporous carbon confined sulfur for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Hao Yajin , Shi Zhiqiang , Wang Jing , Xu Qiang
Published: March 2015

Nitrogen doped mesoporous carbon (NMC) with high specific surface area, large pore volume and stable nitrogen content has been prepared by in situ doping through one step carbonization to immobilize sulfur for lithium–sulfur batteries.
Study of the structural, thermal, optical, electrical and nanomechanical properties of sputtered vanadium oxide smart thin films
Authors: Porwal Deeksha , Esther A. Carmel Mary , Reddy I. Neelakanta , Sridhara N. , Yadav Nagendra Prasad , Rangappa Dinesh , Bera Parthasarathi , Anandan Chinnasamy , Sharma Anand Kumar , Dey Arjun
Published: March 2015

Reversible (i.e. smart) transition observed in sputtered vanadium oxide (major V+5, minor V+4) films, further investigated detailed structural, thermal, optical, electrical and nanomechanical behaviours.
The effect of pore size or iron particle size on the formation of light olefins in Fischer–Tropsch synthesis
Authors: Liu Yi , Chen Jian-Feng , Zhang Yi
Published: March 2015

Smaller iron or iron carbide particle was advantageous to form more light olefins and O/P of C2–C4 was more sensitive to pore size of catalysts.
Treatment of metal wastewater in pilot-scale packed bed systems: efficiency of single- vs. mixed-mushrooms
Authors: Long Yunchuan , Li Qiao , Ni Jiangxia , Xu Fei , Xu Heng
Published: March 2015

This study investigated the biosorption of heavy metals from industrial wastewater using mushrooms at small-sized pilot-scale.
Calix[4]arene amine modified silica: from fundamentals to new recyclable materials for the removal of chlorophenoxy acids from water
Authors: Danil de Namor Angela F. , Zvietcovich-Guerra Jorge A. , Villanueva Salas Jose A. , Piro Oscar E. , Webb Oliver A. , El Gamouz Abdelaziz , Hamdan Weam Abou , Castellano Eduardo E.
Published: March 2015

Two new recyclable materials obtained by the immobilisation of calix[4]arene derivatives into silica are used for the removal of chloro-phenoxy acid herbicides from water.
Formulation of iron oxide nanoparticles using exopolysaccharide: evaluation of their antibacterial and anticancer activities
Authors: Vignesh Venkatasamy , Sathiyanarayanan Ganesan , Sathishkumar Gnanasekar , Parthiban Karuppaiah , Sathish-Kumar Kamaraj , Thirumurugan Ramasamy
Published: March 2015

Formulation of FeONPs using bacterial exopolysaccharide and their significance.
Green synthesis of Au–Ag bimetallic nanocomposites using Silybum marianum seed extract and their application as a catalyst
Authors: Gopalakrishnan R. , Loganathan B. , Raghu K.
Published: March 2015

An eco-friendly and non-toxic method for the synthesis of Au–Ag bimetallic nanocomposites has been carried out successfully. Silybum marianum seed extract plays an important role in the reduction and stabilization of the Au–Ag bimetallic nanocomposites.
A straightforward synthesis of alkyl 1H-tetrazol-5-yl thioethers via a one-pot reaction of aldehydes and 1H-tetrazole-5-thiols mediated by N-tosylhydrazones
Authors: Li Le-Le , Gao Lian-Xun , Han Fu-She
Published: March 2015

A method for the straightforward synthesis of alkyl 1H-tetrazol-5-yl thioethers from aldehydes and 1H-tetrazole-5-thiols through a one-pot procedure is presented.
Gas-breathing polymer film for constructing switchable ionic diodes
Authors: Jiang Hong , Wang Erkang , Wang Jiahai
Published: March 2015

A fluidic diode is constructed based on nanopore supported gas-responsive polymer film, which exhibits on/off ratio more than 10 000 under asymmetrical stimulation with pH or gas pairs.
Molecular modeling of interaction between lipid monolayer and graphene nanosheets: implications for pulmonary nanotoxicity and pulmonary drug delivery
Authors: Yue Tongtao , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhang Xianren , Huang Fang
Published: March 2015

Understanding how nanoparticles interact with the pulmonary surfactant monolayer (PSM) is of great importance for safe applications in biomedicine and for evaluation of both health and environment impacts.
Highly stable PtP alloy nanotube arrays as a catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction in acidic medium
Authors: Zhang Lili , Wei Meng , Wang Suqing , Li Zhong , Ding Liang-Xin , Wang Haihui
Published: March 2015

Self-supporting PtP nanotube arrays composed of interconnected PtP alloy nanocrystals exhibited excellent activity and durability for the ORR in acidic medium.
Highly alkaline stable N1-alkyl substituted 2-methylimidazolium functionalized alkaline anion exchange membranes
Authors: Yang Congrong , Wang Suli , Ma Wenjia , Jiang Luhua , Sun Gongquan
Published: March 2015

N1-butyl, hexyl or octyl-substituted 2-methylimidazolium functional groups are much more stable than the 1,2-dimethylimidazolium functional group.
Constitution of a visual detection system for lead(ii) on polydiacetylene–glycine embedded nanofibrous membranes
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Lihuan , Wen Yanan , Ding Bin , Sun Gang , Ke Tao , Chen Jingyuan , Yu Jianyong
Published: March 2015

A visual detection system for lead(ii) comprised of SiO2nanoparticles, decorated electrospun polydiacetylene–glycine nanofibrous strip and a smartphone.
Zwitterionic liquid crystals as 1D and 3D lithium ion transport media
Authors: Soberats Bartolome , Yoshio Masafumi , Ichikawa Takahiro , Ohno Hiroyuki , Kato Takashi
Published: March 2015

3D and 1D lithium ion transport is achieved along nanostructured ionic pathways built through co-assembly of a zwitterionic liquid crystal, a lithium salt and propylene carbonate.
Porous MnFe2O4 microrods as advanced anodes for Li-ion batteries with long cycle lifespan
Authors: Wang Nana , Ma Xiaojian , Wang Yunpo , Yang Jian , Qian Yitai
Published: March 2015

Porous MnFe2O4 microrods exhibit 630 mA h g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1 A g−1 and high coulombic efficiency (>98%).
Active LaNi1−xFexO3 bifunctional catalysts for air cathodes in alkaline media
Authors: Zhang Daiwei , Song Yufeng , Du Zhenzhen , Wang Long , Li Yutao , Goodenough John B.
Published: March 2015

Iron doping in LaNi1−xFexO3 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2) synthesized by a sol–gel method increases the valence state of the surface Ni and, thereby, the catalytic activity for both the ORR and OER in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte. The Fe-doped LaNiO3 offers a low-cost electrocatalyst for an air cathode in metal–air batteries.
Bioinspired transparent underwater superoleophobic and anti-oil surfaces
Authors: Yong Jiale , Chen Feng , Yang Qing , Du Guangqing , Shan Chao , Bian Hao , Farooq Umar , Hou Xun
Published: March 2015

A bioinspired method to realize transparent underwater superoleophobic and anti-oil surfaces by a femtosecond laser treatment.
Retracted Article: Hollow amorphous NaFePO4nanospheres as a high-capacity and high-rate cathode for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Chun , Miao Xue , Chu Wei , Wu Ping , Tong Dong Ge
Published: March 2015

Hollow amorphous NaFePO4nanospheres exhibited a high storage capacity and high rate as cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries.
Fabrication of a novel blended membrane with chitosan and silk microfibers for wound healing: characterization, in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Xu Zongpu , Shi Liyang , Yang Mingying , Zhang Haiping , Zhu Liangjun
Published: March 2015

A novel type of chitosan/silk microfibers blended membrane was fabricated, which could significantly accelerate wound healing efficiency.
Temperature-sensitive polypeptide nanogels for intracellular delivery of a biomacromolecular drug
Authors: Ko Du Young , Moon Hyo Jung , Jeong Byeongmoon
Published: March 2015

Temperature sensitive polypeptide nanogels showing excellent cytocompatibility and internalization efficiency controlled by the zeta potential and size of the nanogels.
M3+[amaranth red]3−(M = La, Gd): a novel sulfonate-based inorganic–organic hybrid nanomaterial for multimodal imaging
Authors: Poß Marieke , Napp Joanna , Niehaus Oliver , Pöttgen Rainer , Alves Frauke , Feldmann Claus
Published: March 2015

[M3+][AMA]3−hybrid nanoparticles consist of M3+(M = La, Gd) and the fluorescent dye anion [AMA]3−(AMA: amaranth red) and show multimodal functionality (fluorescence, magnetism) at excellent photostability.
microRNAs in glomerular diseases from pathophysiology to potential treatment target
Authors: Schena Francesco P. , Sallustio Fabio , Serino Grazia
Published: March 2015

miRNAs are regulators of gene expression in diverse biological and pathological courses in life. Their discovery may be considered one of the most important steps in the story of modern biology. miRNAs are packed within exosomes and released by cells for cellular communications; they are present in bodily fluids. Their study opens the way for understanding the pathogenetic mechanisms of many diseases; furthermore, as potential candidate biomarkers, they can be measured in bodily fluids for non-invasive monitoring of disease outcomes. The present review highlights recent advances in the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of primary and secondary glomerulonephritides such as IgA nephropathy, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis, lupus nephritis and diabetic nephropathy. The identification of reciprocal expression of miRNAs and their target genes provides the molecular basis for additional information on the pathogenetic mechanisms of kidney diseases. Finally, recent findings demonstrate that miRNAs can be considered as potential targets for novel drugs.
Performance of perpendicular magnetic recording with track squeeze using bidirectional pattern-dependent noise prediction detector
Authors: Ng Yibin , Zhang Songhua , Cai Kui , Qin Zhiliang , Ong Chun Lian , Ang Shiming , Yuan Zhi-Min
Published: March 2015

In this study, we investigated the performance of perpendicular magnetic recording with squeezed tracks. Based on spinstand signals, we developed a signal generation module to generate the readback signals for tracks of various squeezed track width and bit length. To mitigate the drop in bit error rate (BER) as squeezed track width decreases, we implemented the bidirectional pattern-dependent noise prediction (BiPDNP) detector with low-density parity check codes. To improve the BiPDNP detector over earlier work, we modified the log-likelihood ratio computation. Our results show that our proposed BiPDNP detector improves the bit error rate, and allows smaller squeezed track width and smaller bit length for the same BER performance.