bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Arthrodesis with Retrograde Hindfoot Nail for Elderly Patients with Tibia Pilon Fractures and Psychiatric Illness
Authors: Chiu Yen-Chun , Wu Chin-Hsien , Tsai Kun-Ling , Jou I-Ming , Tu Yuan-Kun , Ma Ching-Hou
Published: July 2024

Background: Management of tibial pilon fracture in elderly patients with psychiatric illness remains challenging for orthopedic doctors because of patients’ poor bone quality and inability for self-care. This study aimed to ascertain the viability and reliability of primary arthrodesis by using retrograde hindfoot nail for these difficult cases.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed eight elderly consecutive patients (age older than 65 years) with tibial pilon fractures and psychiatric illness from January of 2012 to December of 2019 in our institute. Primary tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis with retrograde hindfoot nail was used as a definitive procedure. The bone union time, wound complication rate, ankle alignment, necessity for narcotic agents, and ambulation status were evaluated.

Results: The average length of follow-up was 22.25 months (range, 15–36 months). Additional bone grafting surgery was performed for one patient because of fusion-site nonunion 6 months postoperatively. Another patient required debridement and removal of posterior calcaneal screw because of implant prominence and local infection. Osseous union with angular deformity less than 10° was achieved in all patients finally. The average bone union time was 6.6 months (range, 4–12 months). In terms of walking ability, six patients were capable of outdoor ambulation (classes 2 and 3). Two patients required oral pain medication at the final visit.

Conclusions: The current study involved only a small number of patients, and two of the eight cases encountered undesired complications (one local infection and one bone nonunion); however, we believe that our method may serve as a valuable alternative for the treatment of tibial pilon fractures in elderly patients with psychiatric illness, considering the specificity of this fragile population.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Diabetic Foot Patients: A Shift in the Infectious Agent Profile Toward Nonfermentative Gram-Negative Bacilli
Authors: Acar Ali , Saltoğlu Neşe , Tülek Necla , Turhan Özge , Serin Elif Nazlı , Yapar Derya , Kendirci Murat , Sürme Serkan , Karaca Banu Yıldız , Altay Fatma Aybala , Tayşi Rıdvan , Şencan İrfan , Tanyel Esra , Bilek Heval Can , Güler Özlem , Mutlu Birsen , Aksan Tolga , Karadağ Fatma Yılmaz , Kadanalı Ayten , Altunal Lütfiye Nilsun , Oglu Moumperra Chral , Şenbayrak Seniha , Erol Serpil , Ak Öznur , Aladağ Nazire , Demirtürk Neşe , Konya Petek , Bulut Dilek , Engin Derya Öztürk , Aslan Hasan Murat , Kaya Sibel Doğan
Published: July 2024

Background: Diabetes foot infection is a very important public health problem that causes serious health problems, mortality, and high health expenditures, and is one of the most important complications of diabetes mellitus. There are concerns that approaches such as limited personal visits to doctors, avoidance of hospitals, and restrictions on nonemergency surgical procedures during the coronavirus disease of 2019 pandemic pose a threat to those with diabetic foot problems, including diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), ischemia, and infection, resulting in increased limb loss and mortality.

Methods: This multicenter, retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 tertiary care hospitals from various regions of Turkey. A total of 1,394 patient records were evaluated, 794 of which were between January 1, 2019, and January 30, 2020 (prepandemic [Pre-P]), and 605 of which were between February 1, 2020, and February 28, 2021 (pandemic period [PP]).

Results: During the PP, diabetic foot patient follow-up decreased by 23.8%. In addition, the number of hospitalizations attributable to DFU has decreased significantly during the PP (P = .035). There was no difference between the groups regarding patient demographics, medical history, DFU severity, biochemical and radiologic findings, or comorbidities, but the mean duration of diabetes mellitus years was longer in patients in the Pre-P than in those in the PP (15.1 years versus 13.7 years). There was no difference between the two groups in terms of major complications such as limb loss and mortality, but infection recurrence was higher in the PP than in the Pre-P (12.9% versus 11.4%; P < .05). The prevalence of nonfermentative gram-negative bacteria as causative agents in DFU infections increased during the PP. In particular, the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas spp. increased statistically during the PP.

Conclusions: The rapid adaptation to the pandemic with the measures and changes developed by the multidisciplinary diabetic foot care committees may be the reasons why there was no increase in complications because of DFU during the pandemic in Turkey.
Effects of Balance and Strength Training for Ankle Proprioception in People with Chronic Ankle Instability: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Yekdaneh Asena , Mutlu Çiğdem Yazıcı
Published: July 2024

Background: After an ankle sprain, the ligament and joint capsule are damaged, and as a result, proprioceptive sense is damaged, causing a feeling of giving away in the ankle and resulting in recurrent sprains. Given the relevant studies, it has been seen that people with chronic ankle instability (CAI) commonly have deficits in joint position sense and reinjury risks. Joint position sense plays an important role in ankle control, thereby reducing the risk of injury. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effects of balance and strength training on ankle proprioception in people with CAI.

Methods: This single-blind randomized controlled study included 29 volunteer participants (21 women and eight men) aged 18 to 30 years. Participants with a Cumberland ankle instability scale score less than or equal to 24 were randomly divided into two treatment groups: strength training (n = 14) and balance training (n = 15). Y balance test, joint position, and vibration sense were evaluated at the beginning and end of the treatment. “Hop to stabilization” exercises were applied to the balance group and resistive bands exercises to the strength group, which were performed for 6 weeks, 35 minutes per day, two times per week.

Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in the anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial directions of the Y balance test (P = .89, P = .50, and P = .34, respectively), but the strength training group showed significant improvement in ankle proprioception (140°) and vibration sense (fifth finger) (P < .001), and the post hoc Cohen’s d effect size values were medium (.52) and small (.25), respectively.

Conclusions: The findings of this study show that strengthening and balance exercises have similar effects on dynamic balance, but strengthening exercises are more effective in improving joint position and vibration sense. Given the positive effects of both exercise programs, it is recommended to implement the two interventions separately or together for CAI rehabilitation.
A systematic bi-genomic split-GFP assay illuminates the mitochondrial matrix proteome and protein targeting routes
Authors: Bykov Yury S , Zuttion Solène , Senger Bruno , Klein Ofir , Asraf Yeynit , Meyer Hadar , Becker Hubert D , Kucharczyk Róża , Schuldiner Maya
Published: July 2024

The majority of mitochondrial proteins are encoded in the nuclear genome and often lack clear targeting signals. Therefore, what constitutes the entire mitochondrial proteome is still unclear. We here build on our previously developed bi-genomic (BiG) split-GFP assay (Bader et al. 2020) to solidify the list of matrix and inner membrane mitochondrial proteins. The assay relies on one fragment (GFP
1-10
) encoded in the mitochondrial DNA enabling specific visualization of only the proteins tagged with a smaller fragment, GFP
11
, and localized to the mitochondrial matrix or the inner membrane. We used the SWAp-Tag (SWAT) strategy to tag every protein with GFP
11
and mated them with the BiG GFP strain. Imaging the collection in six different conditions allowed us to visualize almost 400 mitochondrial proteins, 50 of which were never visualized in mitochondria before, and many are poorly studied dually localized proteins. We also show how this data can be applied to study mitochondrial inner membrane protein topology and sorting. This work brings us closer to finalizing the mitochondrial proteome and the freely distributed library of GFP
11
-tagged strains will be a useful resource to study protein localization, biogenesis and interactions.
Gene synthesis design: a pythonic approach
Authors: Hu Yunzhuo , Pan Danni , Xu Fei , Huang Bifang , Chen Xuanyang , Lin Shiqiang
Published: July 2024

Researchers often need to synthesize genes of interest in this era of synthetic biology. Gene synthesis by PCR assembly of multiple DNA fragments is a quick and economical method that is widely applied. Up to now, there have been a few software solutions for designing fragments in gene synthesis. However, some of these software solutions use programming languages that are not popular now, other software products are commercial or require users to visit servers. In this study, we propose a Python program to design DNA fragments for gene synthesis. The algorithm is designed to meet the experimental needs. Also, the source code with detailed annotation is freely available for all users. Furthermore, the feasibility of the algorithm and the program is validated by experiments. Our program can be useful for the design of gene synthesis in the labs and help the study of gene structure and function.
An intense 60-day weight-loss course leads to an 18 kg body weight reduction and metabolic reprogramming of soldiers with obesity
Authors: Albores-Méndez Exsal M. , Carrasco-Vargas Humberto , Alaniz Monreal Samary , Mayen Quinto Rodolfo David , López García Ernesto Diderot , Gutierrez Salmean Gabriela , Medina-Quero Karen , Vargas-Hernández Marco A. , Ferreira Batista Cesar Vicente , López-Hernández Yamilé , Winkler Robert
Published: July 2024

Soldiers of the Mexican Army with obesity were subjected to an intense 60-day weight-loss course consisting of a controlled diet, daily physical training, and psychological sessions. The nutritional treatment followed the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommendations, incorporating elements of the traditionalmilpadiet in the nutritional intervention. The total energy intake was reduced by 200 kcal every 20 days, starting with 1,800 kcal and ending with 1,400 kcal daily. On average, the participants reduced their body weight by 18 kg. We employed an innovative approach to monitor the progress of the twelve soldiers who completed the entire program. We compared the untargeted metabolomics profiles of their urine samples, taken before and after the course. The data obtained through liquid chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-MS) provided insightful results. Classification models perfectly separated the profiles pre and post-course, indicating a significant reprogramming of the participants’ metabolism. The changes were observed in the C1-, vitamin, amino acid, and energy metabolism pathways, primarily affecting the liver, biliary system, and mitochondria. This study not only demonstrates the potential of rapid weight loss and metabolic pathway modification but also introduces a non-invasive method for monitoring the metabolic state of individuals through urine mass spectrometry data.
Genotypes and phenotypes in a Wolbachia-ant symbiosis
Authors: Frost Crystal L. , Mitchell Rowena , Smith Judith Elizabeth , Hughes William O.H.
Published: July 2024

The fitness effects of overt parasites, and host resistance to them, are well documented. Most symbionts, however, are more covert and their interactions with their hosts are less well understood. Wolbachia, an intracellular symbiont of insects, is particularly interesting because it is thought to be unaffected by the host immune response and to have fitness effects mostly focussed on sex ratio manipulation. Here, we use quantitative PCR to investigate whether host genotype affects Wolbachia infection density in the leaf-cutting ant Acromyrmex echinatior, and whether Wolbachia infection density may affect host morphology or caste determination. We found significant differences between host colonies in the density of Wolbachia infections, and also smaller intracolonial differences in infection density between host patrilines. However, the density of Wolbachia infections did not appear to affect the morphology of adult queens or likelihood of ants developing as queens. The results suggest that both host genotype and environment influence the host-Wolbachia relationship, but that Wolbachia infections carry little or no physiological effect on the development of larvae in this system.
Negative effects of agricultural open-channel irrigation system on vertebrate populations in central Mexico
Authors: Gómez-Ortiz Yuriana , Domínguez-Vega Hublester , Soria-Díaz Leroy , Rubio-Blanco Tamara , Astudillo-Sánchez Claudia C. , Mundo Victor , Sunny Armando
Published: July 2024

Linear infrastructures such as agricultural irrigation channels produce physical changes and negative impacts to habitats, wildlife populations, communities, and ecosystems. Open irrigation channels act as a pitfall for wildlife and can affect vertebrates of all sizes. Nonetheless, small channels have received relatively little attention by conservation biologists. The objective of this study was to analyze vertebrate species richness and mortality in relation to different sections of an irrigation channel system and the surrounding landscape characteristics. For two years, we conducted monthly surveys along an open-channel irrigation system to estimate its effect on vertebrates through records of dead and alive individuals. We examined the spatial relation of species richness and mortality with transects using a canonical correspondence analysis and chi-squared tests to determine possible variations in the different structures of the channel and seasonality. Further, a landscape diversity index was used to analyze the importance of surrounding habitat structure and composition on these parameters. Most vertebrates (61%) were found dead, small mammals and reptiles were the most affected. Our results indicate that mortality of small vertebrates varies depending on species, structures of the open-channel agricultural irrigation system (i.e., concrete channel and floodgates), seasonality (i.e., wet, and dry), and landscape heterogeneity (i.e., high, medium, and low landscape diversity). The open-channel irrigation system is a threat to populations of small vertebrates in anthropized landscapes, conservation efforts should be directed at protecting water bodies and restructuring the open-channel agricultural irrigation system to avoid mortality of species such as small rodents (M. mexicanus) and reptiles (C. triseriatus, B. imbricata, and Thamnophis spp.).
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life after Dental Treatment among Disabled and Non Disabled Individuals in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Alzahrani Abdullah Ali H , Bhat Nagesh
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The quality of life based on oral health has been a vital factor affecting health outcomes. It is an overall factor that influences functional well-being, as disabled individuals may have predisposing factors that could impact their quality of life. Aim: To assess Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHrQoL) in disabled and non-disabled individuals after receiving dental treatment in the Al-Baha region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September and December 2023. A total of 86 disabled and 129 non-disabled participants underwent clinical examinations, and dental treatments were performed. The Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) was utilised to evaluate OHrQoL using a validated Arabic version of the questionnaire. Data related to all variables in OHIP-14 were analysed in association with oral diseases using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Software version 20.0. Results: A total of 215 patients with and without disabilities were included in the study. Among these, 124 (57.5%) were females and 91 (42.3%) were males. Females reported significantly higher OHrQoL scores than males after dental therapy (p-value<0.001). No significant differences in OHrQoL were observed between patients with and without disabilities (p-value 0.389). However, quality of life significantly improved after dental treatment in disabled and non-disabled individuals across all sections or domains (p-value<0.05). Conclusion: Oral disorders had a negative impact on quality of life, as post-treatment OHrQoL scores were significantly lower than pre-treatment scores.
Characterisation of Pretreated African Yam Bean and Bambara Groundnut Seed Coats for Possible Use in Food Formulations
Authors: A. F. Akinbisoye , G. O. Babarinde , O. L. Otutu , B. I. O. Ade-Omowaye
Published: July 2024

The study focused on characterising pretreated African yam bean (AYB) and Bambara groundnut (BGN) seed coats for possible use in food formulations. The AYB and BG seed coats were dehulled to separate the seed coats from the cotyledon. The seed coats were pretreated using warm water, sodium bicarbonate solution, wild fermentation. The untreated served as control. The pre-treated seed coats were dried and milled to obtain their flours. The different flour samples were subjected to phytochemical, antinutrient, antioxidant and dietary fibre analyses using standard methods. The phytochemical result of the BG seed coat showed that phenol content ranged from 3.58 to 7.04 mgGAE/g and flavonoid ranged from 0.04 to 0.15 mgRUT/g, respectively. The phenol and flavonoid contents of AYB ranged from 3.68 to 17.07 mgGAE/g and 0.06 to 0.43 mgRUT/g, respectively. The antioxidant activities of the seed coats were obtained as FRAP (4.01-7.48; 5.88-23.70 mg/g), DPPH (21.16-86.35; 13.13-90.43%) and ABTS (0.01-0.03; 0.02 to 0.03 Mmol/g) for BG and AYB seed coats, respectively. The dietary fibre results showed that the BG seed coat had insoluble and soluble fibres of 26.70-49.91 and 17.40-18.28% when compared to 38.23-59.13 and 14.44-16.26% for the AYB seed coat, respectively. Besides, the phytate (4.53-6.18 mg/100g), oxalate (0.09-0.23 mg/g) and trypsin inhibitor (13.87-20.79%) contents of BG were significantly (p<0.05) similar to 2.06-6.59 mg/100g; 0.18-0.41 mg/100g and 18.96-27.45% obtained for AYB, respectively. The findings concluded that pretreatment methods had varying effects on the phytonutrients and anti-nutrient compositions of AYB and BG seed coats and that the seed coats of these legumes could be an essential raw material in functional food formulations.
Development of Packaging and Product Variations of Taro Chips at the Wanagiri Taro Processing Group
Authors: Suriati Luh , Mardewi Ni Ketut , Sukmadewi Desak Ketut Tristiana , Datrini Luh Kade , Putra Putu Ajus Raditya , Putra I Wayan Widiantara
Published: July 2024

Aims: The prospects and development opportunities for taro-based processed food products have recently increased. Taro chips represent a type of snack food product that is particularly popular in the Wanagiri area of the Sukasada District in Buleleng Regency. The company's objective is to increase the quantity and quality of its production. Partners encounter impediments in the realm of business management, which impede the effective functioning of both production and marketing management.
Study Design:  Qualitative study with an intervention-based approach.
Place and Duration of Study: Wanagiri Village, Sukasada District, Buleleng Regency on June, 20th 2024.
Methodology: The planned method for implementing activities for the development of packaging and product variations for the Wanagiri Talas Chips Processing Group, Sukasada District, Buleleng Regency, is to utilize the following; (a) The interview and discussion methods; (b) Face-to-face method will facilitate the transfer of knowledge regarding food packaging and hygienic sanitation, the processing of taro chips in a variety of flavors, storage, marketing, entrepreneurship and business management; (c) The programmed incorporates direct practice, guided by instructors who are competent in their respective fields
Results: The primary challenges encountered by partners include sub-optimal business management and unappealing product packaging. This product has the potential to become a new source of income for the group. Furthermore, this activity has demonstrated success in supporting partners from the cultivation stage to the product marketing stage. As a result of the training and hands-on experience gained, group members have become more independent and are now better equipped to develop taro products.
Conclusion: This activity enhances the knowledge and abilities of group members in the processing and marketing of taro products. Prior to the programmed, group members lacked knowledge of attractive packaging and diverse flavors of taro chips.
Design and Development of a Double-layer Grain Sieving Machine
Authors: Adejugbe I. T. , Olowonubi J. A. , Olorunsola T. I. , Fatounde S. A. , Aigbovbiosa J. O. , Oyegunwa O. A. , Komolafe O.
Published: July 2024

Sieving grains is a fundamental process in the agricultural and food industries and is crucial for enhancing cereal products' quality and safety. However, manual grain sieving results in drudgery, fatigue, and time wastage during the processing. The importance of sieving grains spans several dimensions, including improving grain purity by removing foreign materials and impurities such as stones, dust, and chaff. This process also ensures uniformity in grain size, which is vital for consistent cooking and processing characteristics, thereby enhancing product quality and consumer satisfaction. Additionally, sieving plays a significant role in preventing contamination and ensuring food safety, as it helps in the detection and removal of potential contaminants such as mold, insects, and broken grains. Considering these conditions, there is a need to develop a sieving machine to enhance productivity and reduce drudgery. This paper presents the design of an efficient grain sieving machine that was developed with locally sourced materials for ease of maintenance amongst other design considerations. The machine parts include a machine frame, wire mesh, and a vibrator. Several fabrication techniques such as welding, machining, etc. are adopted for the fabrication of the machine. Dry sorghum sample was tested with the machine for operational effectiveness and the result shows that the machine has a sieving capacity of 370kg/hr and sieving efficiency ranging from 85 - 95%. The fabricated double-layered grain sieving machine performed well with high sieving efficiency, reliability, and durability with an estimated cost of 400$.
Influenza Morbidity in the State of Hidalgo, is There Correlation with Climate Change?
Authors: Vázquez Josefina Reynoso , Cortés Rosa Isela Barrera , Tenorio Oliva Castro , Morales Viridiana Vázquez , Mancera Leonardo Daniel Trujillo , Garnica Alfonso Reyes , Ledezma Jesús Carlos Ruvalcaba
Published: July 2024

Influenza is a contagious infection of viral origin; every year, it causes a high disease burden, due to the epidemics it instigates throughout the world. In Mexico, pneumonia and influenza are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality. From the time of the Greek philosophers, diseases were attributed to the climatic changes. The WHO Early Warning System notes the influence of climatic that variation for influenza epidemic risk is moderate for.
Objective: Determine if there is correlation between the minimum temperatures recorded in the state of Hidalgo, and the influenza cases reported during 2014, 2015 and 2016.
Material and Methods: A retrospective observational study was done, which was of transversal and correlational character which conducted a review of data Automated Unified System for Epidemiological Surveillance (SUAVE 2014-2016) and in Mexico Weather Report National Weather Service performed (2014-2016).
Results and Conclusions: According to the statistical analysis, it was concluded that in 2014 (Sig = 0.001) and 2015 (Sig. = 0.00) there is a correlation between the minimum temperatures recorded and the number of reported cases of influenza.
Pollen and Spore Evidence in Forensics
Authors: Bryant Vaughn M.
Published: March 2014

Forensic palynology, the use of pollen and spores to assist in solving criminal and civil cases, is a highly underutilized and neglected technique. During the past century, there have been only limited attempts to use pollen and spore evidence in either criminal or civil cases for a variety of reasons, including a lack of available information about the technique, a very limited number of specialists trained to do this type of forensic work, and an almost total absence of academic centers that are capable of training needed pollen specialists or forensic facilities able, or willing, to fund research in this area. I outline examples of how forensic pollen has been used as evidence and how it has proved helpful in finding and convicting criminals guilty of various types of crimes. I also explore new areas and analytical techniques being offered to enhance the precision of pollen data. The reliability and increased use of forensic palynology can change provided steps are taken to encourage better research and data and routine collection, analysis, and use of pollen evidence in both criminal and civil cases.
Alkali Metals: Inorganic Chemistry
Authors: Leung Wing‐Por , Chan Yuk‐Chi
Published: March 2014

This article is updated to cover the literature in the area of inorganic chemistry of alkali metals since 2006. The advancement in instrumentation and spectroscopic techniques in recent two decades has provided researchers with more powerful tools for structure determination of compounds. In this respect, mixed‐sandwich electrides of alkali metals, complexes with dimers or chains of alkali metal anions, electrides with alkali metal ions intercalated into zeolites, and interstitial hydride enclosed by an unusual (Li+)8cubic cage and a simpler more definedLiH‐containing complex have recently been reported in the literature. Alkali metal ozonides, mixed alkali metal ozonide superoxide, and alkali metal suboxides have also been reported. The preparation ofNa3N,K3N, ternary and higher nitride compounds of lithium are included in this article. The exact composition of “NaB6” and “KB6” is also included. The role of alkali metals in trielide clusters of traditional Zintl polyanions has been shown. Synthesis and structures of trimetallic Li–Na–K amide‐alkoxide compounds, alkoxide compounds, enolates, and highly aggregated cage structures of lithium‐heavier alkali metal alkoxides and heterotrimetallic alkoxide are included.
New Organic Semiconductors with Imide/Amide‐Containing Molecular Systems
Authors: Liu Zitong , Zhang Guanxin , Cai Zhengxu , Chen Xin , Luo Hewei , Li Yonghai , Wang Jianguo , Zhang Deqing
Published: March 2014

Due to their high electron affinities, chemical and thermal stabilities, π‐conjugated molecules with imide/amide frameworks have received considerable attentions as promising candidates for high‐performance optoelectronic materials, particularly for organic semiconductors with high carrier mobilities. The purpose of this Research News is to give an overview of recent advances in development of high performance imide/amide based organic semiconductors for field‐effect transistors. It covers naphthalene diimide‐, perylene diimide‐ and amide‐based conjugated molecules and polymers for organic semiconductors.
Direct Growth of Flower‐Like δ‐MnO2 on Three‐Dimensional Graphene for High‐Performance Rechargeable Li‐O2 Batteries
Authors: Liu Shuangyu , Zhu Yunguang , Xie Jian , Huo Ying , Yang Hui Ying , Zhu Tiejun , Cao Gaoshao , Zhao Xinbing , Zhang Shichao
Published: March 2014

A challenge still remains to develop high‐performance and cost‐effective air electrode for Li‐O2 batteries with high capacity, enhanced rate capability and long cycle life (100 times or above) despite recent advances in this field. In this work, a new design of binder‐free air electrode composed of three‐dimensional (3D) graphene (G) and flower‐like δ‐MnO2 (3D‐G‐MnO2) has been proposed. In this design, graphene and δ‐MnO2 grow directly on the skeleton of Ni foam that inherits the interconnected 3D scaffold of Ni foam. Li‐O2 batteries with 3D‐G‐MnO2 electrode can yield a high discharge capacity of 3660 mAh g−1 at 0.083 mA cm−2. The battery can sustain 132 cycles at a capacity of 492 mAh g−1 (1000 mAh gcarbon
−1) with low overpotentials under a high current density of 0.333 mA cm−2. A high average energy density of 1350 Wh Kg−1 is maintained over 110 cycles at this high current density. The excellent catalytic activity of 3D‐G‐MnO2 makes it an attractive air electrode for high‐performance Li‐O2 batteries.
Palladium‐Catalyzed CH Fluorosilylation of 2‐Phenylpyridines: Synthesis of Silafluorene Equivalents
Authors: Xiao Qing , Meng Xiangtai , Kanai Motomu , Kuninobu Yoichiro
Published: March 2014

Treatment of 2‐phenylpyridines with amino(1,3,2‐dioxaborolan‐2‐yl)diphenylsilane produced fluorosilylated 2‐phenylpyridines in good to excellent yields under palladium catalysis. This reaction is the first example of CH fluorosilylation. Single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis revealed a Lewis acid–base interaction between the silicon and nitrogen atoms, and the obtained fluorosilylated products are silafluorene equivalents. The fluorosilylated products showed stronger fluorescence than the corresponding silafluorene derivative.
Reductive Amination without an External Hydrogen Source
Authors: Chusov Denis , List Benjamin
Published: March 2014

A method of reductive amination without an external hydrogen source is reported. Carbon monoxide is used as the reductant. The reaction proceeds efficiently for a variety of carbonyl compounds and amines at low catalyst loadings and is mechanistically interesting as it does not seem to involve molecular hydrogen.
Collagen‐based biomaterials for wound healing
Authors: Chattopadhyay Sayani , Raines Ronald T.
Published: March 2014

With its wide distribution in soft and hard connective tissues, collagen is the most abundant of animal proteins. In vitro, natural collagen can be formed into highly organized, three‐dimensional scaffolds that are intrinsically biocompatible, biodegradable, nontoxic upon exogenous application, and endowed with high tensile strength. These attributes make collagen the material of choice for wound healing and tissue engineering applications. In this article, we review the structure and molecular interactions of collagen in vivo; the recent use of natural collagen in sponges, injectables, films and membranes, dressings, and skin grafts; and the on‐going development of synthetic collagen mimetic peptides as pylons to anchor cytoactive agents in wound beds. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 101: 821–833, 2014.
Implementation of Sustainability Management and Company Size: A Knowledge‐Based View
Authors: Hörisch Jacob , Johnson Matthew P. , Schaltegger Stefan
Published: March 2014

Implementing corporate sustainability strategies requires knowledge and application of sustainability management tools. While much progress has been made in developing such tools in both small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) and large companies, the literature claims company size positively affects application. However, the role of knowledge as a mediating factor has not yet been investigated. Using the knowledge‐based view as a theoretical underpinning, this paper draws on empirical survey data from SMEs and large companies in Germany. It analyzes how company size affects the degree of knowledge and application of sustainability management tools. Even though the results reaffirm that SMEs know and apply significantly less tools, company size does not influence the share of tools applied once they are known. Thus, knowledge is identified as a key difference between SMEs and large companies as well as an important mediator to promote sustainability management. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Choice of Vein‐Harvest Technique for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Rationale and Design of the REGROUP Trial
Authors: Zenati Marco A. , Gaziano J. Michael , Collins Joseph F. , Biswas Kousick , Gabany Jennifer M. , Quin Jacquelyn A. , Bitondo Jerene M. , Bakaeen Faisal G. , Kelly Rosemary F. , Shroyer A. Laurie , Bhatt Deepak L.
Published: March 2014

The Randomized Endo‐vein Graft Prospective (REGROUP) trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01850082) is a randomized, intent‐to‐treat, 2‐arm, parallel‐design, multicenter study funded by the Cooperative Studies Program (CSP No. 588) of the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Cardiac surgeons at 16 Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers with technical expertise in performing both endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) and open vein harvesting (OVH) were recruited as the REGROUP surgeon participants. Subjects requiring elective or urgent coronary artery bypass grafting using cardiopulmonary bypass with use of ≥1 saphenous vein graft will be screened for enrollment using pre‐established inclusion/exclusion criteria. Enrolled subjects (planned N = 1150) will be randomized to 1 of the 2 arms (EVH or OVH) after an experienced vein harvester has been assigned. The primary outcomes measure is the rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including death, myocardial infarction, or revascularization. Subject assessments will be performed at multiple times, including at baseline, intraoperatively, postoperatively, and at discharge (or 30 days after surgery, if still hospitalized). Assessment of leg‐wound complications will be completed at 6 weeks after surgery. Telephone follow‐ups will occur at 3‐month intervals after surgery until the participating sites are decommissioned after the trial's completion (approximately 4.5 years after the full study startup). To assess long‐term outcomes, centralized follow‐up of MACE for 2 additional years will be centrally performed using VA and non‐VA clinical and administrative databases. The primary MACE outcome will be compared between the 2 arms, EVH and OVH, at the end of the trial duration.
Joint overlay and underlay resource allocation with weighted fairness in OFDM‐based cognitive radio systems
Authors: Xu Wenjun , Wang Yan , Niu Kai , He Zhiqiang , Lin Jiaru
Published: March 2014

In this paper, the problem of hybrid overlay and underlay spectrum access is investigated for OFDM‐based cognitive radio (CR) systems. Both the metrics for system (e.g. capacity) and users (e.g. fairness) are integrated into the unified framework of weighted‐capacity maximization with the interference constraint in CR systems. For easing the procedure of resource allocation, two criteria, respectively, for subcarrier assignment and power allocation are theoretically derived based on the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker conditions. Under the guidance of the two criteria, max‐capacity subcarrier assignment and optimal power allocation are proposed to flexibly distribute spectrum resources to secondary users. In order to reduce the computational complexity further, a suboptimal power allocation algorithm, referred to as cap‐limited waterfilling, is also presented by decomposing the interference constraint. Simulation results show that the capacity and fairness performance of the proposed algorithms is considerably better than the conventional ones in references. The proposed suboptimal algorithm with substantially lower complexity approaches to optimal power allocation in the vicinity of only 1% performance gap. Meanwhile, joint access model is greatly beneficial to spectrum efficiency enhancement in CR systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Green Star Fading? A Critical Assessment of Swedish Environmental Policy Change
Authors: Hysing Erik
Published: March 2014

Frontrunner states have been shown to be highly important for the development and diffusion of progressive environmental policies. History shows, however, that frontrunner status is dynamic and that previous leader countries have become laggards. Here I assess recent policy changes in Sweden – a state widely recognized as an environmental frontrunner – arguing that environmental policy practice within areas prioritized by the Government (biodiversity, sustainable energy, the marine environment and climate change) has experienced high‐profile, and from a green perspective highly controversial policy changes. This policy development raises critical concerns for the future role of Sweden as an environmental frontrunner. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
A comparative study of removal of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) from treated wastewater using highly crosslinked polymeric adsorbents and activated carbon
Authors: Solak Seyhan , Vakondios Nikos , Tzatzimaki Ioanna , Diamadopoulos Evan , Arda Müşerref , Kabay Nalan , Yüksel Mithat
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Removal of some EDCs, such as triclosan including its metabolites (2,4‐dichloro phenol and 2,3,4‐trichloro phenol), estrogens (estrone, 17‐β‐estradiol and 17‐α‐ethinyl estradiol) and some pharmaceuticals (clofibric acid, clofibrate, clofibrate methyl ester, carbamazepine) from water and treated wastewater by commercial highly crosslinked polymer adsorbents (Diaion SP207, Diaion SP825, Dowex L493) and activated carbon was investigated using batch adsorption. The analyses of EDCs were performed by solid phase micro‐extraction (SPME) coupled with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

The optimum dosages of polymer adsorbents were in the range 0.2–1.2 g L‐1, while the respective values for activated carbon were in the range 0.05–0.2 g L‐1. When treated municipal wastewater was used as the water matrix, removal rates of EDCs for activated carbon clearly deteriorated compared with pure water solutions. However, when the synthetic resins were tested in treated effluent, most substances exhibited similar or even higher removals.

CONCLUSIONS

Polymer adsorbents exhibited good performance for removal of EDCs from water. Their use in biologically treated effluent for EDCs removal is also a viable option. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
The genus Nonomuraea: A review of a rare actinomycete taxon for novel metabolites
Authors: Sungthong Rungroch , Nakaew Nareeluk
Published: March 2014

The genus Nonomuraea is a rare actinomycete taxon with a long taxonomic history, while its generic description was recently emended. The genus is less known among the rare actinomycete genera as its taxonomic position was revised several times. It can be found in diverse ecological niches, while most of its member species were isolated from soil samples. However, new trends to discover the genus in other habitats are increasing. Generic abundance of the genus was found to be dependent on geographical changes. Novel sources together with selective and invented isolation techniques might increase a chance to explore the genus and its novel candidates. Interestingly, some of its members have been revealed as a valuable source of novel metabolites for medical and industrial purposes. Broad‐range of potent bioactive compounds including antimicrobial, anticancer, and antipsychotic substances, broad‐spectrum antibiotics and biocatalysts can be synthesized by the genus. In order to investigate biosynthetic pathways of the bioactive compounds and self‐resistant mechanisms to these compounds, the links from genes to metabolites have yet been needed for further discovery and biotechnological development of the genus Nonomuraea.
Satellite observations of land surface temperature patterns induced by synoptic circulation
Authors: Lensky Itamar M. , Dayan Uri
Published: March 2014

Land surface temperature (LST) controls physical, chemical and biological processes on earth, and is used for assessing climatic changes. The seasonal and diurnal cycles, cloud cover, surface properties and atmospheric processes at several scales govern the LST, leading to its high spatial and temporal variability. In this study, a first attempt to assess the contribution of the synoptic scale circulation on LST is carried over using 2000–2012 MODIS data over the East Mediterranean (EM). This is demonstrated for 6 out of 19 synoptic circulation patterns characterizing the EM in the winter, summer and spring. Mean LST data calculated for each synoptic category (LSTsyn_cat) showed mainly the seasonality, i.e. climatological signal (LSTclim). In order to remove the seasonality, we used the LST anomaly (LSTsyn_cat − LSTclim), which ‘cleaned’ also the effects of vegetation and mineralogy, revealing the effects of circulation. Surface air temperature anomalies (at 995 sigma level) retrieved from NCEP/NCAR reanalysis calculated for the same synoptic categories were consistent with those of LST. This confirms the ability of remote sensing to detect the effect of the synoptic scale circulation on the spatial distribution of LST.
Parallel Norms: File‐Sharing and Contemporary Copyright Development in Australia
Authors: Larsson Stefan , Wnukowska‐Mtonga Susan , Svensson Måns , De Kaminski Marcin
Published: March 2014

This article studies contemporary Australian copyright and contrasts this to a large‐scale online survey on file sharing in order to analyse the seemingly parallel and non‐compliant legal and social norms that they represent. Furthermore, a selection of 3,575 Australian respondents to an online survey is compared to a near global group of over 96,000 respondents, allowing determining distinctive traits of the Australian respondents. For example, the latter use offline methods for sharing and receive rather than distribute content to a higher extent in comparison to the global group of respondents. Furthermore, Australian respondents also have slightly less predominance of male sharers.
Cross‐linked Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Therapeutic Engineering and in Vivo Monitoring of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cerebral Ischemia Model
Authors: Park Ji Won , Ku Sook Hee , Moon Hyung‐Ho , Lee Minhyung , Choi Donghoon , Yang Jaemoon , Huh Yong‐Min , Jeong Ji Hoon , Park Tae Gwan , Mok Hyejung , Kim Sun Hwa
Published: March 2014

Poly(ethylene glycol)‐coated cross‐linked iron oxide nanoparticles (PCIONs) are developed for therapeutic engineering of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and their monitoring via magnetic resonance (MR) imaging at a time. PCIONs successfully combine with plasmid DNA (pDNA) via ionic interaction. Accordingly, PCION/pDNA complexes mediate superior translocations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pDNA into intracellular regions of MSCs under external magnetic field, which significantly elevate production of VEGF from MSCs. Genetically engineered MSCs are also clearly visualized via MR imaging after administration to rat cerebrovascular ischemia models, which enable tracking of MSCs migration from injected sites to injured ischemic area.
Parametric Approximation of the Pareto Set in Multi‐Objective Optimization Problems
Authors: Mehta Vivek Kumar , Dasgupta Bhaskar
Published: March 2014

In this paper, a methodology for the systematic parametric representation for approximating the Pareto set of multi‐objective optimization problems has been proposed. It leads to a parametrization of the solutions of a multi‐objective optimization problem in the design as well as in the objective space, which facilitates the task of a decision maker in a significant manner. This methodology exploits the properties of Fourier series basis functions to approximate the general form of (piecewise) continuous Pareto sets. The structure of the problem helps in attacking the problem in two parts, linear and nonlinear least square error minimization. The methodology is tested on the bi‐objective and tri‐objective problems, for which the Pareto set is a curve or surface, respectively. For assessing the quality of such continuous parametric approximations, a new measure has also been suggested in this work. The proposed measure is based on the residuals of Karush–Kuhn–Tucker conditions and quantifies the quality of the approximation as a whole, as it is defined as integrals over the domain of the parameter(s). Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of the cerebellum in the pathogenesis of cortical myoclonus
Authors: Ganos Christos , Kassavetis Panagiotis , Erro Roberto , Edwards Mark J. , Rothwell John , Bhatia Kailash P.
Published: March 2014

The putative involvement of the cerebellum in the pathogenesis of cortical myoclonic syndromes has been long hypothesized, as neuropathological changes in patients with cortical myoclonus have most commonly been found in the cerebellum rather than in the suspected culprit, the primary somatosensory cortex. A model of increased cortical excitability due to loss of cerebellar inhibitory control via cerebello‐thalamo‐cortical connections has been proposed, but evidence remains equivocal. Here, we explore this hypothesis by examining syndromes that present with cortical myoclonus and ataxia. We first describe common clinical characteristics and underlying neuropathology. We critically view information on cerebellar physiology with regard to motorcortical output and compare findings between hypothesized and reported neurophysiological changes in conditions with cortical myoclonus and ataxia. We synthesize knowledge and focus on neurochemical changes in these conditions. Finally, we propose that the combination of alterations in inhibitory neurotransmission and the presence of cerebellar pathology are important elements in the pathogenesis of cortical myoclonus. © 2014 Movement Disorder Society
Course of depressive symptoms and treatment in the longitudinal assessment of bariatric surgery (LABS‐2) study
Authors: Mitchell James E. , King Wendy C. , Chen Jia‐Yuh , Devlin Michael J. , Flum David , Garcia Luis , Inabet William , Pender John R. , Kalarchian Melissa A. , Khandelwal Saurabh , Marcus Marsha D. , Schrope Beth , Strain Gladys , Wolfe Bruce , Yanovski Susan
Published: March 2014

Objective

To examine changes in depressive symptoms and treatment in the first 3 years following bariatric surgery.

Methods

The longitudinal assessment of bariatric surgery‐2 (LABS‐2) is an observational cohort study of adults (n = 2,458) who underwent a bariatric surgical procedure at 1 of 10 US hospitals between 2006 and 2009. This study includes 2,148 participants who completed the Beck depression inventory (BDI) at baseline and ≥ one follow‐up visit in years 1‐3.

Results

At baseline, 40.4% self‐reported treatment for depression. At least mild depressive symptoms (BDI score ≥ 10) were reported by 28.3%; moderate (BDI score 19‐29) and severe (BDI score ≥30) symptoms were uncommon (4.2 and 0.5%, respectively). Mild‐to‐severe depressive symptoms independently increased the odds (OR = 1.75; P = 0.03) of a major adverse event within 30 days of surgery. Compared with baseline, symptom severity was significantly lower at all follow‐up time points (e.g., mild‐to‐severe symptomatology was 8.9%, 6 months; 8.4%, 1year; 12.2%, 2 years; 15.6%, 3 years; ps < 0.001), but increased between 1 and 3 years postoperatively (P < 0.01). Change in depressive symptoms was significantly related to change in body mass index (r = 0.42; P < 0001).

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery has a positive impact on depressive features. However, data suggest some deterioration in improvement after the first postoperative year. LABS‐2, #NCT00465829, http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00465829.