bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emotion Regulation in Sexually Abused Preschoolers: The Contribution of Parental Factors
Authors: Langevin Rachel , Hébert Martine , Allard‐Dansereau Claire , Bernard‐Bonnin Anne‐Claude
Published: February 2016

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is associated with emotion regulation deficits in childhood. Parents play a crucial role in the development of emotion regulation in their children, especially at younger ages. Close to 50% of mothers of sexually abused children report having been sexually victimized themselves as children. They are consequently at risk of experiencing significant distress following the disclosure of sexual abuse of their child. Parents' distress could interfere with their ability to provide support and to foster development of emotion regulation in their children. The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship of parental factors (history of sexual victimization in childhood and the current level of distress) to sexually abused preschoolers’ emotion regulation competencies. Emotion regulation was assessed in 153 preschoolers by their parents with the Emotion Regulation Checklist; 75 of these children were abused (14 boys); 78 were not abused (21 boys) and were part of a comparison group. Parents reported their level of distress using the Psychiatric Symptom Index. Results indicated that parental factors contributed to some dimensions of preschoolers' emotion regulation (namely displays of underregulation of emotion) above and beyond children's victimization status and gender (Cohen's ƒ2 = .15). Identifying parental distress and history of sexual victimization as positively associated with emotional dysregulation in preschool children victims of CSA has important research and clinical implications.
Comparing the Performance of Three Land Models in Global C Cycle Simulations: A Detailed Structural Analysis
Authors: Rafique Rashid , Xia Jianyang , Hararuk Oleksandra , Leng Guoyong , Asrar Ghassem , Luo Yiqi
Published: February 2016

Land models are valuable tools to understand the dynamics of global carbon (C) cycle. Various models have been developed and used for predictions of future C dynamics but uncertainties still exist. Diagnosing the models' behaviors in terms of structures can help to narrow down the uncertainties in prediction of C dynamics. In this study three widely used land surface models, namely CSIRO's Atmosphere Biosphere Land Exchange (CABLE) with 9 C pools, Community Land Model (version 3·5) combined with Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach (CLM‐CASA) with 12 C pools and Community Land Model (version 4) (CLM4) with 26 C pools were driven by the observed meteorological forcing. The simulated C storage and residence time were used for analysis. The C storage and residence time were computed globally for all individual soil and plant pools, as well as net primary productivity (NPP) and its allocation to different plant components' based on these models. Remotely sensed NPP and statistically derived HWSD, and GLC2000 datasets were used as a reference to evaluate the performance of these models. Results showed that CABLE exhibited better agreement with referenced C storage and residence time for plant and soil pools, as compared with CLM‐CASA and CLM4. CABLE had longer bulk residence time for soil C pools and stored more C in roots, whereas, CLM‐CASA and CLM4 stored more C in woody pools because of differential NPP allocation. Overall, these results indicate that the differences in C storage and residence times in three models are largely because of the differences in their fundamental structures (number of C pools), NPP allocation and C transfer rates. Our results have implications in model development and provide a general framework to explain the bias/uncertainties in simulation of C storage and residence times from the perspectives of model structures. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence of potential nitrogen‐fixing, green sulfur bacteria in the skeleton of reef‐building coral Isopora palifera
Authors: Yang Shan‐Hua , Lee Sonny T. M. , Huang Chang‐Rung , Tseng Ching‐Hung , Chiang Pei‐Wen , Chen Chung‐Pin , Chen Hsing‐Ju , Tang Sen‐Lin
Published: February 2016

Microbial endoliths, which inhabit interior pores of rocks, skeletons and coral, are ubiquitous in terrestrial and marine environments. In this study, various colored layers stratified the endolithic environment within the skeleton of Isopora palifera; however, there was a distinct green‐pigmented layer in the skeleton (beneath the living coral tissue). To characterize diversity of endolithic microorganisms, 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon pyrosequencing was used to investigate bacterial communities in the green layer of eight I. palifera coral colonies retrieved from two locations on Green Island, Taiwan. The dominant bacterial group in the green layer belonged to the bacterial phylum Chlorobi, green sulfur bacteria capable of anoxygenic photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation. Specifically, bacteria of the genus Prosthecochloris were dominant in this green layer. To our knowledge, this is the first study to provide a detailed profile of endolithic bacteria in coral and to determine the prevalence of Prosthecochloris in the green layer. Based on our findings, we infer that these bacteria may have an important functional role in the coral holobiont in the nutrient‐limited coral reef ecosystem.
The contribution of denitrification and burial to the nitrogen budgets of three geomorphically distinct Australian estuaries: Importance of seagrass habitats
Authors: Eyre Bradley D. , Maher Damien T. , Sanders Christian
Published: February 2016

Nitrogen (N) loss from different benthic habitats via net denitrification and burial was quantified, and first‐order N budgets were constructed, for three geomorphically distinct shallow warm temperate South‐East Australian barrier estuaries. Seagrass communities were the most important benthic habitats for N loss via net denitrification due to a combination of their area and high denitrification rates. Similarly, the largest N loss via burial occurred in the seagrass communities in the Hastings River Estuary and Wallis Lake, but in contrast, the largest annual loss of N via burial in the Camden Haven occurred in the subtidal muds due to their large area. N inputs to the river‐dominated Hasting River Estuary were dominated by diffuse sources from the catchment. Budget deficits in Camden Haven and Wallis Lake suggest that the largest input of N may have been from the ocean, although missing N‐fixation and/or groundwater cannot be excluded. Export to the ocean was the largest loss of N in the Hasting River Estuary followed by net denitrification and then burial. Net denitrification was the largest loss of N in the Camden Haven and Wallis Lake followed by burial. As the systems mature (evolve) the burial of N per m2, the loss of N via denitrification per m2 and the % of the total N load that is removed as fish per m2, all decrease. Overall N loss via denitrification for a given residence time may be higher in shallow and oligotrophic coastal systems with extensive seagrass habitats than deeper temperate systems.
Pressure distribution in small hydrodynamic journal bearings considering cavitation: a numerical approach based on the open‐source CFD code OpenFOAM®
Authors: Concli Franco
Published: February 2016

Hydrodynamic journal bearings are traditionally designed using the half‐Sommerfeld theory. This consists in a semi‐analytical solution of the continuity and momentum conservation equations substituting negative pressures with the ambient pressure. This hypothesis provides acceptable results, but a better understanding of the phenomena considering the effective pressure distribution including 3D and cavitation effects can be achieved only by using numerical methods. For this reason, some different solvers and cavitation models were applied to different geometries for which literature provides experimental data. Once the numerical model was validated, a parametric analysis was performed in order to better understand the influence of the rotational speed and the relative eccentricity on the attitude angle, the reaction forces, the pressure distribution and the power losses of a small journal bearing. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liver transplantation for adenomatosis: European experience
Authors: Chiche Laurence , David Anaelle , Adam René , Oliverius M. Martin , Klempnauer Jürgen , Vibert Eric , Colledan Michele , Lerut Jan , Mazzafero V. Vincenzo , Di‐sandro Stefano , Laurent Christophe , Scuderi Vincenzo , Suc Bertrand , Troisi Roberto , Bachelier Phillipe , Dumortier Jerôme , Gugenheim Jean , Mabrut Jean‐Yves , Gonzalez‐Pinto Ignacio , Pruvot François‐René , Le‐Treut Yves Patrice , Navarro Francis , Ortiz‐de‐Urbina Jorge , Salamé Ephrem , Spada Marco , Bioulac‐Sage Paulette
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to collect data from patients who underwent liver transplantation (LT) for adenomatosis; to analyze the symptoms, the characteristics of the disease, and the recipient outcomes; and to better define the role of LT in this rare indication. This retrospective multicenter study, based on data from the European Liver Transplant Registry, encompassed patients who underwent LT for adenomatosis between January 1, 1986, and July 15, 2013, in Europe. Patients with glycogen storage disease (GSD) type IA were not excluded. This study included 49 patients. Sixteen patients had GSD, and 7 had liver vascular abnormalities. The main indications for transplantation were either a suspicion of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC; 15 patients) or a histologically proven HCC (16 patients), but only 17 had actual malignant transformation (MT) of adenomas. GSD status was similar for the 2 groups, except for age and the presence of HCC on explants (P = 0.030). Three patients with HCC on explant developed recurrence after transplantation. We obtained and studied the pathomolecular characteristics for 23 patients. In conclusion, LT should remain an extremely rare treatment for adenomatosis. Indications for transplantation primarily concern the MT of adenomas. The decision should rely on morphological data and histological evidence of MT. Additional indications should be discussed on a case‐by‐case basis. In this report, we propose a simplified approach to this decision‐making process.
Simeprevir and sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin to treat recurrent genotype 1 hepatitis C virus infection after orthotopic liver transplantation
Authors: Crittenden Neil E. , Buchanan Laura A. , Pinkston Christina M. , Cave Barbra , Barve Ashutosh , Marsano Luis , McClain Craig James , Jones Christopher M. , Marvin Michael R. , Davis Eric G. , Kuns‐Adkins Candice B. , Gedaly Roberto , Brock Guy , Shah Malay B. , Rosenau Jens , Cave Matthew C.
Published: February 2016

Although combination simeprevir (SIM) plus sofosbuvir (SOF) is an approved regimen for genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV), data regarding its safety and efficacy in liver transplant recipients remain limited. A multicenter retrospective study was performed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of a 12‐week regimen of SIM/SOF with or without ribavirin (RBV) in 56 consecutive liver transplant recipients in 2014; 79% of patients had genotype 1a, 14% had cirrhosis, and 73% were treatment experienced. Sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR12) was 88% by intention to treat analysis (95% confidence interval, 84%‐90%). Four patients relapsed, but no on‐treatment virological failures occurred. The Q80K polymorphism did not impact SVR12, but there was a trend toward decreased sustained virological response with advanced fibrosis (P = 0.18). HCV RNA was detectable at treatment week 4 in 21% of patients, and those who had detectable levels were less likely to achieve SVR12 (58% versus 95%; P = 0.003). Five patients had baseline Child‐Pugh class B cirrhosis, and 2 of them died (1 following early discontinuation of therapy). An additional discontinuation resulted from a severe photosensitivity reaction in a patient on concomitant cyclosporine. Seven patients receiving RBV developed progressive anemia requiring intervention. Immunosuppression dose modifications were minimal. SIM/SOF for 12 weeks was effective and well tolerated by compensated liver transplant recipients especially when administered without concomitant RBV or cyclosporine. SIM/SOF appears to have a niche as the only 12‐week RBV‐free treatment regimen currently recommended by guidelines for compensated transplant recipients. However, 12 weeks may not be the optimal duration of therapy for those with detectable virus at week 4 or possibly for those with cirrhosis. These data require confirmation by prospective randomized clinical trials. Liver Transplantation 22 635‐643 2016 AASLD.
A prospective study of a protocol that reduces readmission after liver transplantation
Authors: Russo Mark W. , Levi David M. , Pierce Ruth , Casingal Vincent , Eskind Lon , deLemos Andrew , Schmeltzer Paul A. , Zamor Philippe J.
Published: February 2016

Health care has shifted to placing priority on quality and value instead of volume. Liver transplantation uses substantial resources and is associated with high readmission rates. Our goal was to determine if a protocol designed to reduce readmission after liver transplant was effective. We conducted a prospective study of a protocol designed to reduce readmission rates after liver transplantation by expanding outpatient services and alternatives to readmission. The 30‐day readmission rate 1 year after implementing the protocol was compared to the 30‐day rate for 2 years prior to implementation. Multivariate analysis was used to control for potential confounding factors. Over the study period, 167 adult primary liver transplants were performed with a mean biological Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score of 21 ± 8. Fifty‐seven (34%) patients were readmitted. The most common reason for readmission was biliary complications (n = 13). The 30‐day readmission rate decreased from 40% before implementing the protocol to 20% after implementation (P = 0.02). In multivariate analysis, the protocol remained associated with readmission (odds ratio, 0.39; 95% confidence interval, 0.16‐0.92; P = 0.03). The mean length of stay after transplant was 13 ± 12 days preprotocol and 9 ± 5 days postprotocol (P = 0.09). Alternatives to readmission, including hospital lodging and observation status, were main factors in reducing readmission rates. If the most recent definitions of inpatient admission and observation status were applied over the entire study period, then the readmission rates preprotocol and postprotocol were 31% and 20% indicating that the revised definition of observation status accounted for 45% of the reduction in the readmission rate. Readmission after liver transplantation can be reduced without increasing length of stay by implementing a specifically designed protocol that expands outpatient services and alternatives to inpatient admission. Liver Transplantation 22 765–772 2016 AASLD.
Decomposition of plant‐sourced carbon compounds by heterotrophic betaproteobacteria isolated from a tropical Costa Rican bromeliad
Authors: Klann Jane , McHenry Alexandra , Montelongo Carin , Goffredi Shana K.
Published: February 2016

Betaproteobacteria were the most common isolates from the water‐filled tank of a Costa Rican bromeliad. Isolates included eight species from the orders Neisseriales and Burkholderiales, with close relatives recovered previously from tropical soils, wetlands, freshwater, or in association with plants. Compared to close relatives, the isolates displayed high temperature and comparatively low pH optima, reflecting the tropical, acidic nature of the bromeliad tank. Bromeliad‐associated bacteria most closely related to Chromobacterium, Herbaspirillum, and Aquitalea were all isolated exclusively at pH 6, while Ralstonia, Cupriavidus, and three species of Burkholderia were isolated mostly at pH 4. Activity profiles for the isolates suggest pervasive capabilities for the breakdown of plant‐sourced organics, including d‐galacturonic acid, mannitol, d‐xylose, and l‐phenylalanine, also reflecting a niche dominated by decomposition of leaves from the overlying canopy, which become entrained in the tanks. Metabolic activity profiles were overlapping between the Burkholderiales, isolated at pH 4, and the Neisseriales, isolated at pH 6, suggesting that plant material decomposition, which is presumably the underlying process sustaining the tank community and possibly the plant itself, occurs in the tanks at both pH extremes. These results suggest that bromeliad‐associated betaproteobacteria may play an important role in the cycling of carbon in this unusual aquatic habitat.
Neuro‐QoL health‐related quality of life measurement system: Validation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Nowinski Cindy J. , Siderowf Andrew , Simuni Tanya , Wortman Catherine , Moy Claudia , Cella David
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Neuro‐QoL is a multidimensional patient‐reported outcome measurement system assessing aspects of physical, mental, and social health identified by neurology patients and caregivers as important. One of the first neurology‐specific patient‐reported outcome measure systems created using modern test development methods, Neuro‐Qol enables brief, yet precise, assessment and the ability to conduct both PD‐specific and cross‐disease comparisons. We present results of Neuro‐QoL clinical validation using a sample of PD patients.

Methods

A total of 120 PD patients recruited from academic medical centers were assessed at baseline, 1 week, and 6 months. Assessments included Neuro‐QoL and general and PD‐specific validity measures.

Results

Participants were 62% male and 95% white (average age = 66); H & Y stages were 1 (16%), 2 (61%), 3 (18%), and 4 (5%). Internal consistency and test‐retest reliability of Neuro‐QoL ranged from Cronbach's alphas = 0.81 to 0.94 with intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.66 to 0.80. Pearson's correlations between Neuro‐QoL and legacy measures were generally moderate and in expected directions. UPDRS Part 2 was moderately correlated with Neuro‐QoL Upper Extremity and Mobility, respectively (r's = −0.44; −0.59). Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire‐39 and Neuro‐QoL measures of similar constructs showed strong‐to‐moderate correlations (r's = 0.70–0.44). Neuro‐QoL measures of fatigue, mobility, positive emotion, and emotional/behavioral control showed responsiveness to self‐reported change.

Conclusions

Neuro‐QoL is valid for use in PD clinical research. Reliability for all but two measures is sufficient for group comparisons, with some evidence supporting responsiveness to change. Neuro‐QoL possesses characteristics, such as brevity, flexibility in administration, and suitability, for cross‐disease comparisons that may be advantageous to users in a variety of settings. © 2016 Movement Disorder Society
Scapular osteocutaneous free flap for total lower lip and mandible reconstruction
Authors: Jacobson Lia , Dedhia Raj , Kokot Niels , Chalian Ara
Published: February 2016

Purpose

Total lower lip and mandible defects following tumor resection present challenging reconstructions. The use of dual free flaps leads to increased donor‐site morbidity and risk of flap failure. We present a single scapular free flap approach with unique use of osteotomies for lip reconstruction in a small series of patients. Methods: A case series was conducted from 2007 to 2012 on three patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity requiring large resection. Patients ranged in age from 34 to 64 years. A scapular free flap was used for reconstruction of mandible, floor of mouth, total lower lip and chin defects ranging in size from 7 × 4 cm to 11 × 7 cm. Harvested bone was extended medially beyond the lateral border of scapula. Osteotomies were oriented to support the soft tissue flap to rebuild lip height and restore oral competence. Results: Skin paddles ranged in size from 10‐11 cm × 18‐25 cm. Bone flap size was not reported but vertical height of osteotomies ranged from 3‐4 cm. All flaps survived microvascular transfer. One patient suffered from shoulder dysfunction and sialorrhea necessitating a second procedure. A second patient developed exposed hardware after radiation. Follow‐up ranged from 10 to 36 months. All patients achieved good oral competence and cosmesis by 9 months post‐operative. Conclusions: This single‐flap approach may provide an alternative to dual free flap reconstruction of total lower lip and mandible. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:480–484, 2016.
Echo time optimization for J‐difference editing of glutathione at 3T
Authors: Chan Kimberly L. , Puts Nicolaas A.J. , Snoussi Karim , Harris Ashley D. , Barker Peter B. , Edden Richard A.E.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To investigate the echo time (TE) dependence of J‐difference editing of glutathione and to determine the optimal TE for in vivo measurements at 3T.

Methods

Spatially resolved density‐matrix simulations and phantom experiments were performed at a range of TEs to establish the spatial and TE modulation of glutathione signals in editing‐on, editing‐off, and difference spectra at 3T. In vivo data were acquired in five healthy subjects to compare a TE of 68 ms and a TE of 120 ms. At the longer TE, high‐bandwidth, frequency‐modulated, slice‐selective refocusing pulses were also compared with conventional amplitude‐modulated pulses.

Results

Simulations and relaxation‐corrected phantom experiments suggest that the maximum edited signal occurs at TE 160 ms, ignoring transverse relaxation. Considering in vivo T2 relaxation times of 67–89 ms, the optimal in vivo TE is estimated to be 120 ms. In vivo measurements showed that this TE yielded 15% more signal than TE 68 ms. A further gain of 57% resulted from using improved slice‐selective refocusing pulses.

Conclusion

J‐difference editing of glutathione using TE 120 ms delivers increased signal due to improved editing efficiency that more than offsets T2 losses. The additional TE also allows for use of improved slice‐selective refocusing pulses, which results in additional signal gains. Magn Reson Med 77:498–504, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Single shot three‐dimensional pulse sequence for hyperpolarized 13C MRI
Authors: Wang Jiazheng , Wright Alan J. , Hu De‐en , Hesketh Richard , Brindle Kevin M.
Published: February 2016

Purpose

Metabolic imaging with hyperpolarized 13C‐labeled cell substrates is a promising technique for imaging tissue metabolism in vivo. However, the transient nature of the hyperpolarization, and its depletion following excitation, limits the imaging time and the number of excitation pulses that can be used. We describe here a single‐shot three‐dimensional (3D) imaging sequence and demonstrate its capability to generate 13C MR images in tumor‐bearing mice injected with hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate.

Methods

The pulse sequence acquires a stack‐of‐spirals at two spin echoes after a single excitation pulse and encodes the kz‐dimension in an interleaved manner to enhance robustness to B0 inhomogeneity. Spectral‐spatial pulses are used to acquire dynamic 3D images from selected hyperpolarized 13C‐labeled metabolites.

Results

A nominal spatial/temporal resolution of 1.25 × 1.25 × 2.5 mm3 × 2 s was achieved in tumor images of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate and [1‐13C]lactate acquired in vivo. Higher resolution in the z‐direction, with a different k‐space trajectory, was demonstrated in measurements on a thermally polarized [1‐13C]lactate phantom.

Conclusion

The pulse sequence is capable of imaging hyperpolarized 13C‐labeled substrates at relatively high spatial and temporal resolutions and is robust to moderate system imperfections. Magn Reson Med 77:740–752, 2017. © 2016 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Susceptibility‐based time‐resolved whole‐organ and regional tissue oximetry
Authors: Wehrli Felix W. , Fan Audrey P. , Rodgers Zachary B. , Englund Erin K. , Langham Michael C.
Published: February 2016

The magnetism of hemoglobin – being paramagnetic in its deoxy and diamagnetic in its oxy state – offers unique opportunities to probe oxygen metabolism in blood and tissues. The magnetic susceptibility χ of blood scales linearly with blood oxygen saturation, which can be obtained by measuring the magnetic field ΔB of the intravascular MR signal relative to tissue. In contrast to χ, the induced field ΔB is non‐local. Therefore, to obtain the intravascular susceptibility Δχ relative to adjoining tissue from the measured ΔB demands solution of an inverse problem. Fortunately, for ellipsoidal structures, to which a straight, cylindrically shaped blood vessel segment conforms, the solution is trivial. The article reviews the principle of MR susceptometry‐based blood oximetry. It then discusses applications for quantification of whole‐brain oxygen extraction – typically on the basis of a measurement in the superior sagittal sinus – and, in conjunction with total cerebral blood flow, the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2). By simultaneously measuring flow and venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) a temporal resolution of a few seconds can be achieved, allowing the study of the response to non‐steady‐state challenges such as volitional apnea. Extensions to regional measurements in smaller cerebral veins are also possible, as well as voxelwise quantification of venous blood saturation in cerebral veins accomplished by quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) techniques. Applications of susceptometry‐based oximetry to studies of metabolic and degenerative disorders of the brain are reviewed. Lastly, the technique is shown to be applicable to other organ systems such as the extremities using SvO2 as a dynamic tracer to monitor the kinetics of the microvascular response to induced ischemia. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overhauser‐enhanced magnetic resonance elastography
Authors: Salameh Najat , Sarracanie Mathieu , Armstrong Brandon D. , Rosen Matthew S. , Comment Arnaud
Published: February 2016

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is a powerful technique to assess the mechanical properties of living tissue. However, it suffers from reduced sensitivity in regions with short T2 and T2* such as in tissue with high concentrations of paramagnetic iron, or in regions surrounding implanted devices. In this work, we exploit the longer T2* attainable at ultra‐low magnetic fields in combination with Overhauser dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) to enable rapid MRE at 0.0065 T. A 3D balanced steady‐state free precession based MRE sequence with undersampling and fractional encoding was implemented on a 0.0065 T MRI scanner. A custom‐built RF coil for DNP and a programmable vibration system for elastography were developed. Displacement fields and stiffness maps were reconstructed from data recorded in a polyvinyl alcohol gel phantom loaded with stable nitroxide radicals. A DNP enhancement of 25 was achieved during the MRE sequence, allowing the acquisition of 3D Overhauser‐enhanced MRE (OMRE) images with (1.5 × 2.7 × 9) mm3 resolution over eight temporal steps and 11 slices in 6 minutes. In conclusion, OMRE at ultra‐low magnetic field can be used to detect mechanical waves over short acquisition times. This new modality shows promise to broaden the scope of conventional MRE applications, and may extend the utility of low‐cost, portable MRI systems to detect elasticity changes in patients with implanted devices or iron overload. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dama Dentition: A New Tooth Eruption and Wear Method for Assessing the Age of Fallow Deer (Dama dama)
Authors: Bowen F. , Carden R. F. , Daujat J. , Grouard S. , Miller H. , Perdikaris S. , Sykes N.
Published: February 2016

Reliable ageing techniques for wild animals are notoriously challenging to develop because of the scarcity of sizeable collections of known‐age specimens. Without such techniques it is difficult to reconstruct hunting patterns, which is a significant problem for the examination of assemblages from pre‐farming cultures. This paper presents a new method, based on mandibular tooth eruption and wear, for assessing the age of fallow deer. The method was developed from a large collection (n = 156) of known‐age Dama dama specimens, has been blind tested by members of the zooarchaeological community and represents a user‐friendly system with the potential to generate large compatible datasets through which the dynamics of human–Dama relationships can be examined. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and properties of poly(arylene ether)s based on 3‐pentadecyl 4,4'‐biphenol
Authors: Tawade Bhausaheb V , Shaligram Sayali V , Valsange Nitin G , Kharul Ulhas K , Wadgaonkar Prakash P
Published: February 2016

A new biphenol, 3‐pentadecyl 4,4′‐biphenol, was synthesized starting from 3‐pentadecylphenol and was polycondensed with 4,4′‐difluorobenzophenone, 1,3‐bis(4‐fluorobenzoyl)benzene and bis(4‐fluorophenyl)sulfone to obtain poly(arylene ether)s with biphenylene linkages in the backbone and pendent pentadecyl chains. Inherent viscosities and number‐average molecular weights (Mn) of the poly(arylene ether)s were in the range 0.50 − 0.81 dL g−1 and 2.2 × 104 − 8.3 × 104, respectively. Detailed NMR spectroscopic studies of the poly(arylene ether)s indicated the presence of constitutional isomerism which existed because of the non‐symmetrical structure of 3‐pentadecyl 4,4′‐biphenol. The poly(arylene ether)s readily dissolved in common organic solvents such as dichloromethane, chloroform and tetrahydrofuran and could be cast into tough, transparent and flexible films from their chloroform solutions. The poly(arylene ether)s exhibited Tg values in the range 35–60 °C which are lower than that of reference poly(arylene ether)s without pentadecyl chains. The 10% decomposition temperatures (T10) of the poly(arylene ether)s were in the range 410–455 °C indicating their good thermal stability. A gas permeation study of poly(ether sulfone) containing pendent pentadecyl chains revealed a moderate increase in permeability for helium, hydrogen and oxygen. However, there was a large increase in permeability for carbon dioxide which could be attributed to the internal plasticization effect of pendent pentadecyl chains. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Photovoltaic energy competitiveness and risk assessment for the South African residential sector
Authors: Betz Stephanie , Caneva Silvia , Weiss Ingrid , Rowley Paul
Published: February 2016

The establishment of new photovoltaic (PV) markets in emerging economies represents a business development opportunity for expansion outside traditional energy markets. Appropriate assessment of PV market competitiveness is thus necessary in order to inform policy and regulatory development, and in order to manage risks related to investment. This paper presents an evaluation of PV energy competitiveness using a case study of the emerging residential PV market in South Africa. Competitiveness is defined in light of the risks associated with the financial performance of domestic grid‐connected rooftop PV considering the current market status together with three proposed business models, namely net‐metering, net‐billing and an energy savings performance contract framework. Financial performance is evaluated in terms of a socket parity evaluation together with a discounted net cash flow analysis. Investment risk assessment was facilitated using a Monte Carlo simulation. The results indicate the highest potential profitability for the energy savings performance contract model, which includes PV system ownership by an energy services company. It is also shown that appropriate application of risk modelling has the potential to inform decisions by investors and policy makers alike that result in improved policy and business solutions that are able to support increased residential PV energy market competitiveness without the need for explicit subsidy frameworks. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What do women with breast cancer expect from their treatment? Correlates of negative treatment expectations about endocrine therapy
Authors: Heisig Sarah R. , Shedden‐Mora Meike C. , von Blanckenburg Pia , Rief Winfried , Witzel Isabell , Albert Ute‐Susann , Nestoriuc Yvonne
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Patients' negative treatment expectations can lead to nocebo‐related side effects and non‐initiation of treatment. This study aims to identify correlates of treatment expectations in patients with breast cancer before the start of endocrine therapy.

Methods

Expectations were assessed in a cross‐sectional sample of 166 patients with breast cancer after receiving treatment information. Side effect expectations (one item) and treatment necessity–concern balance (Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire) were assessed. Correlates were analyzed using regression analyses. The structure of treatment expectations was investigated using a network analysis.

Results

About 25% of patients expressed negative expectations. Higher side effect expectations were associated with lower treatment efficacy expectations (ß = −0.20, p = 0.01), higher medication overuse beliefs (ß = 0.17, p = 0.01), and a negative treatment appraisal before study treatment information (ß = −0.17, p = 0.02). A negative necessity–concern balance was associated with lower treatment efficacy expectations (ß = 0.36, p < 0.001), lower adherence intention (ß = 0.21, p < 0.001), and no knowledge of tumor's receptor status (ß = 0.21, p < 0.001); furthermore, it was associated with higher medication harmfulness beliefs (ß = −0.16, p = 0.02), negative treatment pre‐appraisal (ß = 0.15, p = 0.01), higher somatosensory amplification (ß = −0.14, p = 0.02), and higher education (ß = −0.12, p = 0.02). The most important network node was the concern that endocrine therapy disrupts life.

Conclusion

Negative treatment expectations before treatment start are mainly associated with psychological variables. These results are relevant for patient education in clinical settings. To improve expectations, clinicians might emphasize treatment efficacy and discuss general and specific medication concerns. Improving treatment knowledge could also be beneficial. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychological variables associated with quality of life following primary treatment for head and neck cancer: a systematic review of the literature from 2004 to 2015
Authors: Dunne Simon , Mooney Orla , Coffey Laura , Sharp Linda , Desmond Deirdre , Timon Conrad , O'Sullivan Eleanor , Gallagher Pamela
Published: February 2016

Objective

There has been a recent proliferation of research on quality of life (QoL) in head and neck cancer (HNC). The objective of this review was to systematically examine the evidence on psychological factors associated with QoL outcomes for HNC survivors in the post‐treatment period published during 2004–2015.

Methods

Five databases were searched for studies investigating psychological factors associated with QoL in HNC survivors. Empirical studies published between January 2004 and June 2015 were included if they measured QoL as an outcome following treatment using a reliable and valid measure, examined its association with at least one psychological factor and included at least 50 HNC survivors.

Results

Twenty‐four publications describing 19 studies (9 cross‐sectional, 10 prospective) involving 2,263 HNC survivors were included. There was considerable heterogeneity in study design and diversity in measurement and analysis. Distress‐related variables (depression, anxiety, distress) were most frequently investigated, and mostly reported negative associations with QoL outcomes. Associations were also observed between other psychological factors (e.g., coping, neuroticism and fear of recurrence) and QoL.

Conclusions

Several psychological factors predict QoL among HNC survivors who have completed treatment. Routine screening and early interventions that target distress could improve HNC survivors' QoL following treatment. Longitudinal and population‐based studies incorporating more systematic and standardised measurement approaches are needed to better understand relationships between psychological factors and QoL and to inform the development of intervention and supportive care strategies.Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of polysomnography to assess safe decannulation in children
Authors: Cristea A. Ioana , Jalou Hasnaa E. , Givan Deborah C. , Davis Stephanie D. , Slaven James E. , Ackerman Veda L.
Published: February 2016

Background

Tracheostomy is a lifesaving procedure to secure the airway and provide respiratory support. The decision to decannulate has classically been an individual physician decision without consensus among experts. The objective of this retrospective study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a standard institutional protocol that utilizes the sleep laboratory to assist in the decannulation process.

Methods

Between 2006 and 2013, patients were identified using a clinical database of decannulation studies. A protocol, finalized in 2005, was implemented for each decannulation attempt. In brief, all patients eligible for decannulation based on physician's assessment undergoes bronchoscopy. Once bronchoscopy findings reveal that the patient's airway is free of significant obstruction, decannulation is conducted in the sleep laboratory. The stoma is covered by an occlusive dressing and respiratory parameters are measured awake and asleep during the day and overnight by polysomnogram (PSG). The patient undergoes re‐cannulation if the study shows significant obstruction, hypoventilation, or prolonged desaturation.

Results

A total of 210 decannulation attempts were performed on 189 patients (16 patients had multiple attempts). One hundred sixty‐seven (79.5%) decannulation attempts were successful. Of those successfully decannulated, four (2.4%) were recannulated within 6 months. PSG parameters, specifically the apnea‐hypopnea index, percent of total sleep time with oxygen saturation levels less than 90%, and lowest oxygen saturation levels were significantly associated with successful decannulation. No deaths occurred.

Conclusions

We present a safe and successful decannulation protocol that includes bronchoscopy coupled with PSG evaluation of the patient with the stoma decannulated and covered by an occlusive dressing. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:796–802. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Liberation from home mechanical ventilation and decannulation in children
Authors: Henningfeld Jennifer K. , Maletta Kristyn , Ren Bixiang , Richards Kathie L. , Wegner Carole , D'Andrea Lynn A.
Published: February 2016

Background

The prevalence of children requiring outpatient invasive long‐term mechanical ventilation is increasing. For some children, liberation from home mechanical ventilation (HMV) and decannulation is the desired outcome. This study describes our experience liberating tracheostomy and HMV (T‐HMV) dependent children from respiratory technologies.

Methods

We reviewed charts of T‐HMV dependent children who were cared for at our institution and decannulated between July 1999 and December 2011. Patient characteristics, diagnoses, and important steps leading to decannulation were recorded.

Results

Forty‐six children achieved HMV independence and decannulation. The most common indications for T‐HMV were lower airway and parenchymal lung disease. The median ages at tracheotomy, initiation of HMV, initiation of tracheostomy collar (TC) trials, HMV independence, and decannulation were 3.5, 6.0, 12.0, 25.5, and 40.5 months, respectively. Twenty‐five children (54%) skipped either using a speaking valve, tracheostomy capping, or both without increased likelihood of recannulation. (P = 0.03). Common procedures prior to decannulation were airway surgery, bronchoscopy, and polysomnography (n = 30, 46, and 46 children, respectively). A median of 9.5 clinic visits and 5 hospitalizations occurred from initial hospital discharge to just prior to decannulation. HMV was primarily weaned as an outpatient.

Conclusion

Liberation from respiratory technology is a complex, multi‐step process that can be accomplished in medically complex children with varying underlying disease processes at relatively young ages. Five major steps (tracheotomy, initiation of HMV, initiation of TC trials, HMV independence, and decannulation) performed in conjunction with clinic visits, procedures, and home nursing support were integral in the successful decannulation process. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:838–849. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Artificial placenta: Recent advances and potential clinical applications
Authors: Metelo‐Coimbra Catarina , Roncon‐Albuquerque Roberto
Published: February 2016

Lung immaturity remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in extremely premature infants. Positive‐pressure mechanical ventilation, the method of choice for respiratory support in premature infants, frequently promotes by itself lung injury and a negative impact in the circulatory function. Extracorporeal lung support has been proposed for more than 50 years as a potential alternative to mechanical ventilation in the treatment of severe respiratory failure of extremely premature infants. Recent advances in this field included the development of miniaturized centrifugal pumps and polymethylpentene oxygenators, as well as the successful use of pump‐assisted veno‐venous extracorporeal gas exchange systems in experimental artificial placenta models. This review, which includes studies published from 1958 to 2015, presents an update on the artificial placenta concept and its potential clinical applications. Special focus will be devoted to the milestones achieved so far and to the limitations that must be overcome before its clinical application. Notwithstanding, the artificial placenta stands as a promising alternative to mechanical ventilation in extremely premature infants. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:643–649. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Study on the Viscoelastic Poisson‘s Ratio of Solid Propellants Using Digital Image Correlation Method
Authors: Cui Hui Ru , Tang Guo Jin , Shen Zhi Bin
Published: February 2016

Digital image correlation methods were used for further studies of the viscoelastic Poisson's ratio of solid propellants. The Poisson's ratio and the Young's relaxation modulus of solid propellants were separately determined in a single stress relaxation test. In addition, the effects of temperature, longitudinal strain, preload and storage time on the Poisson's ratio of solid propellants were discussed. The Poisson's ratio master curve and the Young's relaxation modulus master curve were constructed based on the time‐temperature equivalence principle. The obtained results showed that the Poisson's ratio of solid propellants is a monotone non‐decreasing function of time, the instantaneous Poisson's ratio increased from 0.3899 to 0.4858 and the time of the equilibrium Poisson's ratio occurred late when the temperature was varied from −30 °C to 70 °C. The Poisson's ratio increased with temperature and longitudinal strain, decreased with preload and storage time, while the amplitude Poisson's ratio increased with preload, decreases with longitudinal strain and storage time. The time of the equilibrium Poisson's ratio occurred in advance with the increase of longitudinal strain, preload and storage time.
Shock Sensitivity Studies for PBXN‐109
Authors: Lu Jing Ping , Lochert Ian J. , Daniel Merran A. , Franson Mark D.
Published: February 2016

An understanding of the explosive’s shock sensitivity is of vital importance for the hazard assessment and vulnerability evaluations of munitions. This paper summarizes the experimental and modeling research relating to shock initiation and sympathetic reaction of PBXN‐109. The modeling has focused on developing and applying Ignition and Growth (I&G) models using the hydrocode LS‐DYNA, taking into consideration the reduced shock sensitivity due to changes in source of ingredients. Detonation front tracking was applied to selected sympathetic reaction experiments and one Large Scale Gap Test series to extract additional information of the response of the acceptor charges. The simulated arrival times were compared with the measured data at the fibreoptic array positions. Finally, the shock sensitivity curve that summarizes the critical combination of peak shock pressure P and the derived parameter P2t was described for the PBXN‐109 formulations and compared with curves reported for other explosives.
Insensitive Munitions – Design Principles and Technology Developments
Authors: Powell Ian J.
Published: February 2016

The concept of Insensitive Munitions was developed more than 40 years ago. The challenge for the munition designer was to produce munitions that gave the required performance but did not respond violently when subject to accidents or enemy action. Given that munitions contain metastable energetic materials which are by design able to release large quantities of energy in very short timeframes, coupled with the other constraints of reliability, service life, environmental impact, ease of disposal and cost it is easy to understand that this was and to some extent still is a major challenge. This paper provides a brief summary of the key technologies developed over the last 40 years and provides a set of design principles to facilitate the IM design process.
Salt bridge as a gatekeeper against partial unfolding
Authors: Hinzman Mark W. , Essex Morgan E. , Park Chiwook
Published: February 2016

Salt bridges are frequently observed in protein structures. Because the energetic contribution of salt bridges is strongly dependent on the environmental context, salt bridges are believed to contribute to the structural specificity rather than the stability. To test the role of salt bridges in enhancing structural specificity, we investigated the contribution of a salt bridge to the energetics of native‐state partial unfolding in a cysteine‐free version of Escherichia coli ribonuclease H (RNase H*). Thermolysin cleaves a protruding loop of RNase H* through transient partial unfolding under native conditions. Lys86 and Asp108 in RNase H* form a partially buried salt bridge that tethers the protruding loop. Investigation of the global stability of K86Q/D108N RNase H* showed that the salt bridge does not significantly contribute to the global stability. However, K86Q/D108N RNase H* is greatly more susceptible to proteolysis by thermolysin than wild‐type RNase H* is. The free energy for partial unfolding determined by native‐state proteolysis indicates that the salt bridge significantly increases the energy for partial unfolding by destabilizing the partially unfolded form. Double mutant cycles with single and double mutations of the salt bridge suggest that the partially unfolded form is destabilized due to a significant decrease in the interaction energy between Lys86 and Asp108 upon partial unfolding. This study demonstrates that, even in the case that a salt bridge does not contribute to the global stability, the salt bridge may function as a gatekeeper against partial unfolding that disturbs the optimal geometry of the salt bridge.
Hydrogen incorporation, stability, and release effects in thin film silicon
Authors: Beyer Wolfhard
Published: February 2016

Thin film silicon (amorphous silicon, microcrystalline silicon) contains typically about 10 at.% of hydrogen. Several hydrogen effects in connection with hydrogen incorporation, hydrogen diffusion/stability, and hydrogen release have been observed and are reviewed with focus on the experimental techniques of infrared absorption, hydrogen diffusion, and effusion measurements. Hydrogen effects in hydrogen‐implanted amorphous, microcrystalline, and crystalline silicon materials are also discussed. The knowledge and the understanding of these effects may help for improved products and is, furthermore, a challenging scientific task.