bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Block Copolymers of Poly(Butylenes Terephthalate‐Co‐Adipate)
Authors: Tsai Hong‐Bing , Li Hsiao‐Chian , Yu Fu‐Hsi
Published: June 2015

The block copolyesters of poly(butylene terephthalate)(PBT) and poly(butylene adipate)(PBA) were prepared by a novel two‐stage method. In the first stage, high molecular weight PBT and PBA were melt mixed in the presence of 1,4‐butanediol at 275 °C. In the second stage, vacuum was applied to raise the molecular weight. The extent of transesterification was controlled by the proportion of 1,4‐butanediol. The sequence distribution and the thermal properties of the block copolyesters were characterized by NMR and DSC respectively.
Spectral and Kinetic Studies of Free Radicals of Atmospheric Interest
Authors: Leet Yuan‐Pern
Published: June 2015

A review of spectral and kinetic studies of free radicals of atmospheric interest in this laboratory during the past decade is given. The spectral experiments involved infrared absorption and laser‐induced fluorescence in the UV‐visible spectral region to detect radicals in a flow reactor, a supersonic jet or isolated in matrices. IR absorption of several reaction intermediates and vibronic analyses of many electronic transitions have been reported. The discharge‐flow and the laser‐photolysis techniques were employed to investigate the kinetics of radical reactions which are important in the atmosphere; the temperature dependence of the rate coefficients was determined. Information on the rate coefficients of several important reactions has been reported. The detailed rate coefficients of some equilibrium reactions involving OH at various temperatures were determined from the bi‐exponential temporal profiles of the concentration of OH; ΔH and ΔS of the reaction were consequently obtained.
Regioselective Reactions of Monosaccharides and Disaccharides by Enzymes
Authors: Wu Shih‐Hsiung , Ong Geok‐Toh , Hsiao Kwo‐Feng , Wang Kung‐Tsung
Published: June 2015

Peracetylated mono‐ and disaccharides were regioselectively hydrolyzed by hydrolytic enzymes such as lipases and proteases; thus many partially acetylated mono‐ and disaccharides could be prepared by this way.
Anti‐inflammatory treatment of traumatic brain injury with Rabeximod reduces cerebral antigen presentation in mice
Authors: Israelsson Charlotte , Kylberg Annika , Björklund Ulf , Ebendal Ted
Published: June 2015

A major component of the damaging effect after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is activation of the inflammatory system. In particular, chemokines and chemokine‐regulated factors become activated in resident brain cells and signal to different invading immune cells. For evaluation of the effect on invading cells 3 days after injury, mice were treated with a single initial dose of the anti‐inflammatory agent Rabeximod in an experimental TBI model. For comparison, mice subjected to TBI were similarly injected with cyclophosphamide. TBI resulted in reduced body weight, an effect further enhanced by administration of Rabeximod, without obvious influence on motor performance. As revealed by quantitative RT‐PCR, microglial upregulation of chemokine Ccl3 in response to TBI was unaffected by Rabeximod. Also, injury‐induced expression of Cxcl10 in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (DCs) and endothelial expression of platelet selectin (Selp) were uninfluenced by Rabeximod. In contrast, Rabeximod robustly reduced the H2‐Aa transcript characteristic for classical DCs defined by CD11c/Itgax in the injured brain. In addition, the expression of lysozyme 2 in large phagocytic cells was impaired by Rabeximod. These results show that Rabeximod exerts a selective and potent inhibition of cells serving cortical antigen presentation after brain trauma. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gender Differences in the Measurement of Creative Problem‐Solving
Authors: Hardy Jay H. , Gibson Carter
Published: June 2015

Despite significant scholarly attention, the literature on the existence and direction of gender differences in creativity has produced inconsistent findings. In the present paper, we argue that this lack of consensus may be attributable, at least in part, to gender‐specific inconsistencies in the measurement of creative problem‐solving. To explore this possibility, we empirically tested assumptions of multiple‐group measurement invariance using samples borrowed from four recent studies that assessed creative problem‐solving (J.D. Barrett et al., 2013; K.S. Hester et al., 2012; D.R. Peterson et al., 2013; I.C. Robledo et al., 2012). Across the four samples, apparent gender differences emerged on all three components of S.P. Besemer & K. O'Quin's (1999) three‐facet model of creativity (i.e., quality, originality, and elegance) such that, on average, females appeared to exhibit higher baseline levels of creativity. However, in light of violations of measurement invariance assumptions across genders found in these samples, comparisons such as these may not ultimately be appropriate. Although the underlying factor structure and factor loadings on a unitary creativity factor were consistent across gender (i.e., weak factorial invariance), measurement in‐equivalence assumptions were violated at the subfacet level (i.e., strong factorial invariance). Implications of these findings for understanding gender differences in creative problem‐solving are discussed.
A Multilevel Model of Team Cultural Diversity and Creativity: The Role of Climate for Inclusion
Authors: Li Ci‐Rong , Lin Chen‐Ju , Tien Yun‐Hsiang , Chen Chien‐Ming
Published: June 2015

We developed a multi‐level model to test how team cultural diversity may relate to team‐ and individual‐level creativity, integrating team diversity research and information‐exchange perspective. We proposed that the team climate for inclusion would moderate both the relationship between cultural diversity and team information sharing and between cultural diversity and employee information elaboration. We collected time‐lagged data from 384 members and their leaders within 57 multicultural work teams. The results showed that team cultural diversity was positively related to both team creativity and individual creativity through team information sharing and employee information elaboration, respectively. We also found that the indirect positive relationship with team creativity and individual creativity was stronger for team cultural diversity when climate for inclusion of multicultural work teams was stronger.
Surface anchoring mode‐dependent hydrolysis reactions of hydrazone groups on gold examined by pH‐dependent Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ly Nguyễn Hoàng , Joo Sang‐Woo
Published: June 2015

We conducted a comparative study of the pH‐dependent anchoring behaviors of 3‐methyl‐2‐benzothiazolinone hydrazone (3M2BH) and benzophenone hydrazone (BPH) on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) by means of interfacial Raman spectroscopy. We found that several bands of 3M2BH in the highly alkaline pH region disappeared as the colloidal conditions became more neutral and acidic. The vibrational band at 919, 1174, and 1222 cm−1 at pH 10.0 disappeared below pH 9.2, which may be because of the hydrolysis reactions that cleave the labile N―NH2 group of 3M2BH, indicating a rather perpendicular orientation via the sulfur atom at the surfaces. A fairly high transition pH value was assumed to be because of the interaction of the N―NH2 group in the vicinity of the surfaces. Several characteristic bands, including 1584 and 1617 cm−1, also exhibited different intensities, suggesting that the adsorbates on Au surfaces underwent structural transformations of the N―NH2 group after the pH value became neutral or acidic. These changes were not observed for BPH, presumably because of the direct and robust binding of the hydrazone onto Au surfaces. Our results revealed that the pH‐dependent cleavage reactions may vary depending on the surface anchoring modes of the adsorbates. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forage legumes rich in condensed tannins may increase n‐3 fatty acid levels and sensory quality of lamb meat
Authors: Girard Marion , Dohme‐Meier Frigga , Silacci Paolo , Ampuero Kragten Silvia , Kreuzer Michael , Bee Giuseppe
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Tannins intensively interact with rumen microbes, which is expected to have consequences for meat quality.

RESULTS

Silages prepared from birdsfoot trefoil (BT), sainfoin (SF), alfalfa (AF) or red clover (RC) were fed alone to 48 lambs. The SF contained five times more condensed tannins than BT, the other tanniferous plant. Growth and carcass performance, but not general meat quality, was reduced with BT and SF compared to AF and RC. Lambs fed SF had half the skatole levels in the perirenal fat than AF‐fed lambs. The longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle of the SF‐fed lambs, compared to RC and BT, had a lower intensity for ‘livery’ and ‘sheepy’ flavors but a stronger ‘grassy’ flavor. The intramuscular fat of BT‐ and SF‐fed lambs contained less saturated and more polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially 20:4n‐6, 20:3n‐6, 20:5n‐3 and 22:5n‐3, with SF being more efficient than BT.

CONCLUSION

The SF was most promising to increase beneficial fatty acids and to reduce skatole content in lamb meat. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Trichoderma saturnisporum, a new biological control agent
Authors: Diánez Martínez Fernando , Santos Mila , Carretero Francisco , Marín Francisco
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Biocontrol agents (BCAs) could be a viable alternative to chemicals in the management of fungal crop diseases. Screening for potential biocontrol and plant growth promoter isolates from a soil in Cádiz (Spain) was conducted. Several isolates showed antagonism in in vitro tests to several plant pathogens.

RESULTS

Two isolates of Trichoderma saturnisporum (Ascomycetes, Hypocreales) were identified by sequencing of the rDNA region. One isolate was selected for further in vivo plant growth promotion and biological control assays. Results indicate that substrate application of T. saturnisporum improved plant quality and showed biological control activity against Phytophthora capsici and Phytophthora parasitica (Peronosporales, Peronosporaceae).

CONCLUSION

There are a few references to T. saturnisporum isolated from different media but not its ability to promote plant growth or biocontrol. This is the first report of T. saturnisporum as a seedling growth promoter and as biological control agent. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Emotional Activation and Habituation During Imaginal Exposure for PTSD Among Women With Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Harned Melanie S. , Ruork Allison K. , Liu Junny , Tkachuck Mathew A.
Published: June 2015

The current study examined patterns and outcomes of emotional activation and habituation during imaginal exposure for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Participants were 16 women with borderline personality disorder (BPD), PTSD, and recent suicidal and/or self‐injurious behavior who received imaginal exposure for PTSD concurrently with dialectical behavior therapy. The intensity of global distress and 6 specific emotions were assessed before and after imaginal exposure trials. Results indicated that significant within‐session habituation (WSH) occurred for global distress (Hedge's g effect size = −2.52) and fear (g = −0.80), whereas significant between‐session habituation (BSH) occurred for global distress (g = −2.18), fear (g = −1.89), guilt (g = −1.14), shame (g = −0.74), and disgust (g = −0.41). BSH significantly predicted PTSD diagnostic status at posttreatment, whereas activation and WSH were unrelated to outcome. Clients who remitted from PTSD showed significantly more BSH in global distress than nonremitters (η2 = .39). In addition, remitters reported reductions in sadness and anger across trials, whereas sadness and anger increased for those who did not remit (η2 = .54 and .40, respectively). Overall, BPD clients exhibited patterns of activation and habituation during imaginal exposure comparable to other client populations, and there was no evidence of persistent emotional engagement or habituation problems.
Management of the thyroid gland during total laryngectomy in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mourad Moustafa , Saman Masoud , Sawhney Raja , Ducic Yadranko
Published: June 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

The goal of the study was to determine the role of routine total thyroidectomy and hemithyroidectomy in patients undergoing total laryngectomy for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Study Design

The study group consisted of 343 patients who underwent total laryngectomy (98 treated with surgery alone, 136 treated following radiation failure, and 109 following chemoradiation failure). Total thyroidectomy was performed in all obstructing and bilateral lesions or if there was suspicion of contralateral lobe involvement. Hemithyroidectomy was performed in all lateralized lesions. Retrospective histopathologic analysis of thyroid specimens was subsequently performed.

Results

In all, 262 patients underwent total thyroidectomy during total laryngectomy, six of which demonstrated squamous cell carcinoma evident within the thyroid gland (4 from transglottic lesions, 2 from subglottic lesions). Hemithyroidectomy was performed in 81 patients, with only one patient demonstrating evidence of squamous cell carcinoma within the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism was observed in 88% (n = 61) of patients who underwent thyroid lobectomy alone, requiring hormone supplementation.

Conclusion

Routine surgical management of the thyroid gland should not be performed, except in cases of subglottic primary lesions, lesions with significant subglottic extension, or transglottic lesions. Despite efforts to preserve the contralateral thyroid lobe in cases of selective lobectomy, these patients often have a high rate of hypothyroidism, and a total thyroidectomy should be considered when involvement of the thyroid gland is suspected.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 125:1835–1838, 2015
The contribution of inorganic and organic nutrients to the growth of a North American isolate of the mixotrophic dinoflagellate, Dinophysis acuminata
Authors: Hattenrath‐Lehmann Theresa , Gobler Christopher J.
Published: June 2015

Diarrhetic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) is a globally significant human health syndrome most commonly caused by dinoflagellates of the genus Dinophysis. While ecosystem studies suggest that blooms of this mixotrophic dinoflagellate can be promoted by excessive nitrogen (N) loading, it is unclear whether these effects are direct (nutrient stimulation of Dinophysis) or indirect (nutrient stimulation of prey) since this alga is mixotrophic and culture studies investigating the effects of nutrients on Dinophysis have not been performed. We established an isolate of Dinophysis acuminata from New York waters and conducted controlled culture experiments to assess the effects of nutrients on the growth of this dinoflagellate with and without its prey, Mesodinium rubrum. Dinophysis was found to rapidly assimilate 15N‐labeled ammonium and urea, AND to a far lesser extent nitrate. Cultures grown with and without prey generally grew faster with ammonium, glutamine, or organic matter from sewage effluent added than respective controls, while nitrate grown cultures yielded significantly more rapid growth only when fed copious amounts of Mesodinium. Growth rates of Dinophysis also increased with the amount of Mesodinium available in cultures and achieved maximal growth rates (0.36 ± 0.01 d−1) when grown with high levels of Mesodinium and the amino acid, glutamine. Collectively, this study demonstrates that inorganic and organic N can directly promote the growth of Dinophysis and supports the hypothesis that accelerated N loading in coastal ecosystems can promote DSP producing blooms of this species and, thus, may be partly responsible for their recent expansion across the North America.
Dynamic oxygen challenge evaluated by NMR T1 and T2* – insights into tumor oxygenation
Authors: Zhao Dawen , Pacheco‐Torres Jesús , Hallac Rami R. , White Derek , Peschke Peter , Cerdán Sebastian , Mason Ralph P.
Published: June 2015

There is intense interest in developing non‐invasive prognostic biomarkers of tumor response to therapy, particularly with regard to hypoxia. It has been suggested that oxygen sensitive MRI, notably blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) and tissue oxygen level‐dependent (TOLD) contrast, may provide relevant measurements. This study examined the feasibility of interleaved T2*‐ and T1‐weighted oxygen sensitive MRI, as well as R2* and R1 maps, of rat tumors to assess the relative sensitivity to changes in oxygenation. Investigations used cohorts of Dunning prostate R3327‐AT1 and R3327‐HI tumors, which are reported to exhibit distinct size‐dependent levels of hypoxia and response to hyperoxic gas breathing. Proton MRI R1 and R2* maps were obtained for tumors of anesthetized rats (isoflurane/air) at 4.7 T. Then, interleaved gradient echo T2*‐ and T1‐weighted images were acquired during air breathing and a 10 min challenge with carbogen (95% O2–5% CO2).

Signals were stable during air breathing, and each type of tumor showed a distinct signal response to carbogen. T2* (BOLD) response preceded T1 (TOLD) responses, as expected. Smaller HI tumors (reported to be well oxygenated) showed the largest BOLD and TOLD responses. Larger AT1 tumors (reported to be hypoxic and resist modulation by gas breathing) showed the smallest response. There was a strong correlation between BOLD and TOLD signal responses, but ΔR2* and ΔR1 were only correlated for the HI tumors. The magnitude of BOLD and TOLD signal responses to carbogen breathing reflected expected hypoxic fractions and oxygen dynamics, suggesting potential value of this test as a prognostic biomarker of tumor hypoxia. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Trail of the Oldest Domestic Cat in Poland. An Insight from Morphometry, Ancient DNA and Radiocarbon Dating
Authors: Krajcarz M. , Makowiecki D. , Krajcarz M. T. , Masłowska A. , Baca M. , Panagiotopoulou H. , Romańska A. , Bednarczyk J. , Gręzak A. , Sudoł M.
Published: June 2015

It is believed on the basis of archaeozoological research that the domestic cat appeared in Central Europe during the Roman Period. In Poland, the domestic cat is a common species in medieval deposits. Only a few finds of cat remains of pre‐medieval age have been reported from Poland to date, including several specimens from deposits older than the Roman Period, dated to the pre‐Roman Period and even the Bronze Age. To clarify the earliest history of the domestic cat in Poland, the paper presents a review of the available published cat remains and adds some data about newly discovered remains. Combined methods of morphometry and ancient DNA were applied to enable distinction of wildcats and domestic cats. The domestic cat remains were radiocarbon dated. In six cases of domesticated cat reported in the literature, five were positively taxonomically verified, both by morphology and by genetic analysis, and one was recognised as a European wildcat. According to radiocarbon chronology, the oldest studied find is dated to the fourth–third century bc and represents a wildcat. Only two individuals of domestic cat – skeletons from Łojewo and Sławsko Wielkie, both from Kuyavia region (central‐northern Poland) – represent the Roman Period (first–third century ad), and they are the oldest confirmed domestic cats in Poland. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic profiling of human plasma identifies apolipoprotein E as being associated with smoking and a marker for squamous metaplasia of the lung
Authors: Rice Shawn J. , Liu Xin , Miller Bruce , Joshi Monika , Zhu Junjia , Caruso Carla , Gilbert Chris , Toth Jennifer , Reed Michael , Rassaei Negar , Das Arun , Barochia Amit , El‐Bayoumy Karam , Belani Chandra P.
Published: June 2015

Biomarkers to identify subjects at high‐risk for developing lung cancer will revolutionize the disease outlook. Most biomarker studies have focused on patients already diagnosed with lung cancer and in most cases the disease is often advanced and incurable. The objective of this study was to use proteomics to identify a plasma biomarker for early detection of lung lesions that may subsequently be the harbinger for cancer. Plasma samples were obtained from subjects without lung cancer grouped as never, current, or ex‐smokers. An iTRAQ‐based proteomic analysis was performed on these pooled plasma samples. We identified 31 proteins differentially abundant in current smokers or ex‐smokers relative to never smokers. Western blot and ELISA analyses confirmed the iTRAQ results that demonstrated an increase of apolipoprotein E (APOE) in current smokers as compared to both never and ex‐smokers. There was a strong and significant correlation of the plasma APOE levels with development of premalignant squamous metaplasia. Additionally, we also showed that higher tissue levels of APOE are seen with squamous metaplasia, supporting a direct relationship. Our analysis reveals that elevated plasma APOE is associated with smoking, and APOE is a novel predictive protein biomarker for early morphological changes of squamous metaplasia in the lung.
Secondary doping in poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):Poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) thin films
Authors: Nevrela Juraj , Micjan Michal , Novota Miroslav , Kovacova Sona , Pavuk Milan , Juhasz Peter , Kovac Jaroslav , Jakabovic Jan , Weis Martin
Published: June 2015

The electrical and structural properties of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) thin films deposited from aqueous dispersion using different concentrations of selected secondary dopants are studied in detail. An improvement of the electrical conductivity by three orders of magnitude is achieved for dimethyl sulfoxide, sorbitol, ethylene glycol, and N,N‐dimethylformamide, and the secondary dopant concentration dependence of the conductivity exhibits almost identical behavior for all investigated secondary dopants. Detailed analysis of the surface morphology and Raman spectra reveals no presence of the secondary dopant in fabricated films, and thus the dopants are truly causing the secondary doping effect. Although the ratio of benzenoid and quinoid vibrations in Raman spectra is unaffected by doping, the phase transition in PEDOT:PSS films owing to doping is confirmed. Further analysis of temperature‐dependent conductivity reveals 1D variable range hopping (VRH) charge transport for undoped PEDOT:PSS, whereas highly conductive doped PEDOT:PSS films exhibit 3D VRH charge transport. We demonstrate that the charge‐hopping dimensionality change should be a fundamental reason for the conductivity enhancement. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2015, 53, 1139–1146
An ab initio Based Structure Property Relationship for Prediction of Ignition Delay of Hypergolic Ionic Liquids
Authors: Newsome David A. , Vaghjiani Ghanshyam L. , Sengupta Debasis
Published: June 2015

Currently, monomethyl hydrazine is the most widely used hypergolic rocket fuel. However, due to its high vapor toxicity, there is a need to develop low‐toxicity hypergolic fuels. Ionic liquids are one such potential category of fuels, since they are consistently characterized by ultra‐low vapor pressures, but designing ionic liquid propellants with ignition delay times that are comparable to that of monomethyl hydrazine is a challenge. This is because a fundamental understanding of the hypergolic nature of ionic liquids is far from clear. Quantitative structure property relationship (QSPR) represents a simplified design approach for quantitatively predicting the ignition delay times based on linear correlations using a set of descriptors, which, in this work, define electrostatics, hydrogen bonding, and other structural features of the ionic liquids. Experimental ignition delay times for a set of 41 ionic liquids were collected for QSPR development. Experimental measurements of the ignition delay times were then correlated to theoretical descriptors determined from quantum mechanical calculations. A number of multi‐descriptor linear equations were analyzed by regression of the ignition delay data, showing reasonable success. The ignition delay values were observed to spread over a wide range, in large part due to the presence of oxygen in the fuel molecule. The training data was thus split into two sets and refitted to a set of linear equations, showing a systematic improvement in the correlation coefficients. The success of the present QSPR results is encouraging, which should motivate further efforts to enlarge the training set to include experimentally measured properties of ionic liquids for developing highly predictive capabilities.
Synthesis and Characterization of Poly(3‐azidomethyl‐3‐methyl oxetane) by the Azidation of Poly(3‐mesyloxymethyl‐3‐methyl oxetane)
Authors: Wang Gang , Ge Zhen , Luo Yunjun
Published: June 2015

Poly(3‐azidomethyl‐3‐methyl oxetane) (PAMMO) was prepared by the azidation reaction of poly(3‐mesyloxymethyl‐3‐methyl oxetane) (PMMMO), which was synthesized by cationic ring‐opening polymerization of MMMO for the first time. Two azidation reaction methods of PMMMO were considered to obtain PAMMO securely and efficiently. The thermal decomposition performance of PAMMO was studied by TG/FTIR/MS. The result of TG showed that the thermal decomposition of PAMMO involved two steps. Combined with FT‐IR and MS of the escaping gases to investigate the decomposition products of PAMMO, it is found that the first step was mainly corresponding to the thermal decomposition of azide group (N3), and the second step was mainly corresponding to the thermal decomposition of the polyether backbone.
A multiscale approach to simulating the conformational properties of unbound multi‐C2H2 zinc finger proteins
Authors: Liu Lei , Wade Rebecca C. , Heermann Dieter W.
Published: June 2015

The conformational properties of unbound multi‐Cys2His2 (mC2H2) zinc finger proteins, in which zinc finger domains are connected by flexible linkers, are studied by a multiscale approach. Three methods on different length scales are utilized. First, atomic detail molecular dynamics simulations of one zinc finger and its adjacent flexible linker confirmed that the zinc finger is more rigid than the flexible linker. Second, the end‐to‐end distance distributions of mC2H2 zinc finger proteins are computed using an efficient atomistic pivoting algorithm, which only takes excluded volume interactions into consideration. The end‐to‐end distance distribution gradually changes its profile, from left‐tailed to right‐tailed, as the number of zinc fingers increases. This is explained by using a worm‐like chain model. For proteins of a few zinc fingers, an effective bending constraint favors an extended conformation. Only for proteins containing more than nine zinc fingers, is a somewhat compacted conformation preferred. Third, a mesoscale model is modified to study both the local and the global conformational properties of multi‐C2H2 zinc finger proteins. Simulations of the CCCTC‐binding factor (CTCF), an important mC2H2 zinc finger protein for genome spatial organization, are presented. Proteins 2015; 83:1604–1615. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microstructured organic ferroelectric thin film capacitors by solution micromolding
Authors: Lenz Thomas , Zhao Dong , Richardson George , Katsouras Ilias , Asadi Kamal , Glaßer Gunnar , Zimmermann Samuel T. , Stingelin Natalie , Roelofs W. S. Christian , Kemerink Martijn , Blom Paul W. M. , de Leeuw Dago M.
Published: June 2015

Ferroelectric nanostructures offer a promising route for novel integrated electronic devices such as non‐volatile memories. Here we present a facile fabrication route for ferroelectric capacitors comprising a linear array of the ferroelectric random copolymer of vinylidenefluoride and trifluoroethylene (P(VDF‐TrFE)) interdigitated with the electrically insulating polymer polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Micrometer size line gratings of both polymers were fabricated over large area by solution micromolding, a soft lithography method. The binary linear arrays were realized by backfilling with the second polymer. We investigated in detail the device physics of the patterned capacitors. The electrical equivalent circuit is a linear capacitor of PVA in parallel with a ferroelectric capacitor of P(VDF‐TrFE). The binary arrays are electrically characterized by both conventional Sawyer–Tower and shunt measurements. The dependence of the remanent polarization on the array topography is explained by numerical simulation of the electric field distribution.
Reinforcement of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber with waste rubber ash using ionizing radiation
Authors: El‐Nemr K.F. , Hassan M.M. , Saad E.A. , Hamdy E.M.
Published: June 2015

Composites of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber with waste rubber ash (WRA) were prepared in the laboratory by a two‐roll mill. Gamma radiation at different doses (0 to 150 kGy) was applied to curing of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber composites loaded with reinforcement filler (ash powder, 5–40 parts by weight per hundred parts of rubber [phr]). WRA was characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Mechanical and thermal properties of prepared composites were investigated. The results show that the concentration of WRA up to 40 phr and irradiation dose up to 100 kGy improve the mechanical properties of composites. On the other hand, the thermal stability of the composites improved by adding 40 phr of WRA. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 23:117–124, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Greater number of group identifications is associated with lower odds of being depressed: evidence from a Scottish community sample
Authors: Sani Fabio , Madhok Vishnu , Norbury Michael , Dugard Pat , Wakefield Juliet R. H.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Group identification has been shown to be associated with reduced risk of depression, but this research has important limitations. Our aim was to establish a robust link between group identification and depression whilst overcoming previous studies’ shortcomings.

Methods

1824 participants, recruited from General Practice throughout Scotland, completed a questionnaire measuring their identification with three groups (family, community, and a group of their choice), as well as their intensity of contact with each group. They also completed a self-rated depression measure and provided demographic information. Their medical records were also accessed to determine if they had been prescribed antidepressants in the previous 6 months.

Results

The number of group identifications was associated with both lower self-rated depression and lower odds of having received a prescription for antidepressants, even after controlling for the number of contact-intensive groups, level of education, gender, age, and relationship status.

Conclusions

Identifying with multiple groups may help to protect individuals against depression. This highlights the potential importance of social prescriptions, where health professionals encourage a depressed patient to become a member of one or more groups with which the patient believes he/she would be likely to identify.
Disturbance of redox homeostasis as a contributing underlying pathomechanism of brain and liver alterations in 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA lyase deficiency
Authors: Leipnitz Guilhian , Vargas Carmen Regla , Wajner Moacir
Published: June 2015

3‐Hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA lyase (HL) deficiency is an inherited disorder of organic acid metabolism biochemically characterized by tissue accumulation and high urinary excretion of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylgutarate, 3‐methylglutarate, 3‐methylglutaconate and 3‐hydroxyisovalerate. Affected patients predominantly present neurological symptoms that are accompanied by mild hepatopathy during episodes of catabolic crisis. The pathophysiology of this disease is poorly known, although recent animal and human in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested that oxidative stress caused by the major accumulating organic acids may represent a pathomechanism of brain and liver damage in HL deficiency. In this review we focus on the deleterious effects of these carboxylic acids on redox homeostasis in rat and human tissues that may offer new perspectives for potential novel adjuvant therapeutic strategies in this disorder.
Origin of Pseudotachylytes Based on Clasts Size Frequency Distribution in Bundelkhand Craton, Central India
Authors: Deb Tanwita , Bhattacharyya Tapas , Matin Abdul , Sensarma Sarajit
Published: June 2015

Pseudotachylytes in granitoid rocks of the Bundelkhand craton are formed either by crushing dominated process or by pervasive melting. Microstructural observasions reveal that pseudotachylytes include three major varieties: pseudotachylyte-breccia, homogeneous pseudotachylytes and crushed pseudotachylyte. Size frequency diagrams of clasts show power law distribution pattern for crushing dominated pseudotachylytes and “left hand fall off” or curvilinear pattern for melt affected pseudotachylytes.
Petrology, Geochemistry and Tectonics of the Extrusive Sequence of Fannuj-Maskutan Ophiolite, Southeastern Iran
Authors: Moslempour Mohammad Elyas , Khalatbari-Jafari Morteza , Ghaderi Majid , Yousefi Hamidoddin , Shahdadi Sara
Published: June 2015

The Fannuj-Maskutan ophiolite (FMO) contains all the components of a typical ophiolite sequence: metamorphic tectonites, cumulates, isotropic gabbros, plagiogranites, diabasic sheeted dikes, extrusives and sedimentary cover. The extrusive sequence of FMO comprises of alternate pillow lavas and sheet flows, in which the aphyric types are more abundant than phyric facies. The majority of extrusive rocks are basalt and minor basaltic andesite. The FMO extrusives are similar to back-arc basin basalts (BABB). These rocks show many similarities with mid-ocean ridge basalts (MORB), such as marked Fe, Ti, V enrichment from less fractionated to fairly fractionated rocks, relatively high Ti, P, Y contents, and significant Nb depletion. However, they show higher Th/Ta and LREE/HREE ratios compared to MORBs. In addition, the FMO extrusive rocks are generally more enriched in large ion lithophile elements (Rb, Ba, Sr, and K) than average normal-MORB, which suggests that the mantle beneath the FMO was modified by subducted slab-derived components. So, the Fannuj-Maskutan extrusives can be regarded as representative of back-arc basin located between the Bajgan-Durkan arc and the continental margin of the Lut block. These geochemical features, support the idea that the extrusive sequence of Fannuj-Maskutan ophiolite are formed in an environment related to suprasubduction zone (SSZ).
Neuroimaging for Disorders of Consciousness: Ethical Priorities in Research, Policy, and Translation
Authors: Byram AC , Lee G , Owen AM , Ribrary U , Stoessl J , Towson A , Illes J
Published: June 2015

Background: Acquired brain injury is a critical health problem in Canada, placing greater demands on health resources as improvements in intensive care lead to more patients in long-term care. Clinical diagnosis of patients with disorders of consciousness remains difficult, but advances in neuroimaging research have the potential to reshape clinical management of such patients or provide unprecedented ways to communicate with them. Building on our earlier work, this study identifies ethically salient priorities for research and policy before translation of this promising technology. Methods: We interviewed 27 Canadian researchers, ethicists, lawyers, practitioners, allied health care professionals, and patient advocacy leaders, with expertise in neuroimaging or disorders of consciousness. Interviews were semi-structured and data were analyzed for emergent themes. Results: Participants were optimistic that neuroimaging could lead to improved clinical care. They discussed mitigating the risks of misinterpreting results and communication, creating guidelines for clinical use, and defining legal competence in this neuroimaging context as key ethical priorities for translation. Conclusions: The transition of neuroimaging techniques for disorders of consciousness from research to clinical care may yield substantial benefits to these patients, but first requires resolution of research, policy, and translational issues.
Prevalence of essential tremor in an idiopathic Parkinson’s disease patient population
Authors: Rana A , Qureshi AM , Rana MA , Rahman M , Abdullah I , Qureshi D
Published: June 2015

Objective of this study was assess the prevalence of Essential of Essential Tremor in Parkinson’s disease population Essential tremor (ET) is the most common movement disorders and is much more common than Parkinson’s disease, in general population. Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s disease (PD) tremor differ in type, frequency and distribution. Despite being two separate disorders, there have been cases reported of coexistence of ET-PD. Some studies have reported an increase in the incidence of ET in relatives of patients with PD, yet the risk of developing PD in ET patients has not been thoroughly investigated. Our study set out to determine the prevalence of precedent ET in PD patients. We conducted a retrospective chart review analysis of 332 idiopathic PD patients to determine how many of them had ET prior to the diagnosis of PD and the percentage of them who were also diagnosed with ET. Our results indicated that the prevalence of precedent ET among a population of idiopathic PD patients was not any higher than the prevalence of ET in a comparable general population. Our results support the notion that ET and PD are mutually independent disorders. Further studies are needed to understand the exact relationship between these two disorders
Neurophysiology (EMG)
Authors: Shafi S , Bourque P
Published: June 2015

Background: Nail-patella syndrome (NPS) is an inherited autosomal dominant disease, with an incidence of approximately 1 in 50,000. It ischaracterized by nail dysplasia, hypoplastic patellae, other bone deformities and open angle glaucoma. The phenotype is variable. Methods: Case report Results: A 66 year old male presented with complaints of mild loss of sensation in both feet with gradual proximal spread to his knees over the past decade. There was no history of pain, paresthesias, autonomic dysfunction or weakness. Examination showed pectus excavatum with symmetrically dystrophic fingernails. Sensation to crude touch, pain and temperature were reduced up to mid shin, and vibration sense was diminished till the malleoli symmetrically. Electrophysiologic studies revealed a mild to moderate length-dependent polyneuropathy of axonal type. Detailed blood screening studies were negative. Genetic testing revealed the diagnosis of nail-patella syndrome with LMX1B gene mutation on chromosome 9q34. The lack of an identifiable acquired cause and the symmetric, slowly progressive and “painless” nature of the patient’s peripheral neuropathy point toward an inherited etiology. Conclusion: We present a case of slowly progressive sensorimotor axonal polyneuropathy in a patient with a diagnosis of NPS, which has not been previously reported. Peripheral nervous system disorder may be a variable phenotypic manifestation of LMX1B gene mutation.
Predictors of the response of cystic brain metastases to gamma knife radiosurgery
Authors: Ghare A , Klironomos G , Mansouri A , Ebinu JO , Zadeh G
Published: June 2015

Background: Gamma knife radiosurgery (GKR) is an effective treatment modality for local control of brain metastases. The predictors of response of cystic brain metastases (CBM) to GKR is not well understood. To measure progression and determine treatment prognostic factors, we quantified the percentage cystic and solid components of brain metastases before and after GKR treatment. Methods: 71 patients with CBM treated with GKR from 2006 to 2010 were selected from our institution’s database. Volumetric analysis was performed on MRIs done on treatment date and the latest MRI. Clinical data and dosimetry parameters were reviewed to identify factors that predicted a response of cystic component and overall tumour control. Results: Metastatic lesions from the lung had significantly larger cystic components (by volume) prior to GKR than metastasis of colorectal origin (p=0.039), and also had significantly larger cystic/total ratios than metastases from the breast (p=0.023). Post-treatment, a trend of >25% improvement in both cystic and solid components of tumours was seen in lung primaries (p=0.239). Metastatic brain tumours of colorectal origin demonstrated the best treatment response of the cystic component. Conclusion: The primary cancer pathology of the CBM has an effect on the response to GKR, and can be used as a prognosticator of changes in cystic and solid volumes of lesions.
Intrathecal morphine in lumbar spine surgery: a novel injection technique
Authors: Jewett GA , Yavin D , Dhaliwal P , Whittaker T , Krupa J , Du Plessis S
Published: June 2015

Background: Intrathecal morphine (ITM) is an efficacious method of providing post-operative analgesia. Despite adoption in many surgical fields, ITM has yet to become a standard of care in lumbar spine surgery. This may in part be attributed to concerns over precipitating a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak following dural puncture. Methods: The dural sac is penetrated obliquely at a 30° angle to prevent overlap of dural and arachnoid puncture sites. Oblique injection in instances of limited dural exposure is made possible by introducing a 60° bend to a standard 30-gauge needle. Participating spinal surgeons were provided with brief instructions outlining the injection technique. Adherence and complications were collected prospectively. Results: The technique was applied to 98 cases of elective lumbar fusion at our institution. Two cases (2.0%) of non-adherence followed pre-injection dural tear. 96 cases of oblique ITM injection resulted in no attributable instances of post-operative CSF leakage. Two cases (2.1%) of transient, self-limited CSF leakage immediately following ITM injection were observed without associated sequelae or requirement for further intervention. Conclusions: Oblique dural puncture is not associated with increased incidence of post-operative CSF leakage. This safe and reliable method of delivery of ITM should be routinely considered in lumbar spine surgery.
Functional and goniometric outcomes after surgical treatment of odontoid fractures
Authors: Kesarwani R , Nataraj A
Published: June 2015

Background: Surgical approaches to stabilize Type-II odontoid fractures include posterior atlantoaxial fixation (PAF) and anterior screw fixation (ASF). While ASF may theoretically allow for greater preservation of neck motion compared to PAF, there is a lack of evidence that one method preserves rotation and function better than the other. Methods: Single-centre study involving patients under 75 years old who underwent surgery for Type-II odontoid fracture. Following chart review, degree of neck rotation was assessed in patients using goniometric measurements. Participants completed questionnaires to investigate their perception of neck function and overall health (Neck Disability Index, Short Form-12, and EuroQol 5-D). Results: Patient recruitment is ongoing. To date, eleven patients have been reviewed (7 PAF, 4 ASF). Mean patient age was 61+/−12 years in the PAF group and 52+/−16 years in the ASF group. Measured neck rotation was lower in the PAF group compared to the ASF group (mean 58 vs. 110.5 degrees). However, the PAF group also reported fewer functional complaints. Conclusions: Preliminary data suggest that patients who receive ASF tend to be younger. While range of neck rotation is superior in ASF patients, their perception of functional ability does not correlate, suggesting that perceived neck function is multifactorial.
The Magnitude of Time-Dependent Bias in the Estimation of Excess Length of Stay Attributable to Healthcare-Associated Infections
Authors: Nelson Richard E. , Nelson Scott D. , Khader Karim , Perencevich Eli L. , Schweizer Marin L. , Rubin Michael A. , Graves Nicholas , Harbarth Stephan , Stevens Vanessa W. , Samore Matthew H.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Estimates of the excess length of stay (LOS) attributable to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in which total LOS of patients with and without HAIs are biased because of failure to account for the timing of infection. Alternate methods that appropriately treat HAI as a time-varying exposure are multistate models and cohort studies, which match regarding the time of infection. We examined the magnitude of this time-dependent bias in published studies that compared different methodological approaches.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the published literature to identify studies that report attributable LOS estimates using both total LOS (time-fixed) methods and either multistate models or matching patients with and without HAIs using the timing of infection.

RESULTS

Of the 7 studies that compared time-fixed methods to multistate models, conventional methods resulted in estimates of the LOS to HAIs that were, on average, 9.4 days longer or 238% greater than those generated using multistate models. Of the 5 studies that compared time-fixed methods to matching on timing of infection, conventional methods resulted in estimates of the LOS to HAIs that were, on average, 12.6 days longer or 139% greater than those generated by matching on timing of infection.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that estimates of the attributable LOS due to HAIs depend heavily on the methods used to generate those estimates. Overestimation of this effect can lead to incorrect assumptions of the likely cost savings from HAI prevention measures.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(9):1089–1094
Phanerozoic trends in brachiopod body size from synoptic data
Authors: Zhang Zixiang , Augustin Michael , Payne Jonathan L.
Published: June 2015

Body size is one of the most studied phenotypic attributes because it is biologically important and easily measured. Despite a long history of study, however, the pattern of body-size change in diverse higher taxa over the Phanerozoic remains largely unknown because few relevant data sets span more than a single geological period or provide comprehensive, global coverage. In this study, we measured representative specimens of 3414 brachiopod genera illustrated in theTreatise on Invertebrate Paleontology. We applied these size data to stage-resolved stratigraphic ranges from theTreatiseand the Paleobiology Database to develop a Phanerozoic record of trends in brachiopod size. Using a model comparison approach, we find that temporal variation in brachiopod size exhibits two distinct modes—a Paleozoic mode of size increase and a post-Paleozoic mode indistinguishable from a random walk. This transition reflects a change in the identities of the most diverse brachiopod orders rather than a shift in mode within any given order. Paleozoic size increase reflects a small, persistent bias toward the origination of new genera larger than those surviving from the previous stage and is identifiable as a statistically supported trend in three orders representing both Class Strophomenata (Order Productida) and Class Rhynchonellata (orders Atrypida and Spiriferida). Extinction exhibits no consistent bias with respect to size. The shift in evolutionary mode across the end-Permian mass extinction adds to long-standing evidence from studies of diversity and abundance that this biotic catastrophe suddenly and permanently altered the evolutionary history of what was, until that time, the most diverse animal phylum on Earth.