bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive analysis of dengue virus-specific responses supports an HLA-linked protective role for CD8
+
T cells
Authors: Weiskopf Daniela , Angelo Michael A. , de Azeredo Elzinandes L. , Sidney John , Greenbaum Jason A. , Fernando Anira N. , Broadwater Anne , Kolla Ravi V. , De Silva Aruna D. , de Silva Aravinda M. , Mattia Kimberly A. , Doranz Benjamin J. , Grey Howard M. , Shresta Sujan , Peters Bjoern , Sette Alessandro
Published: April 2013

Significance

Dengue virus is the etiologic agent of dengue fever, the most significant mosquito-borne viral disease in humans, affecting over 100 million individuals each year. Currently there is no licensed vaccine or effective antiviral therapy available, and treatment is largely supportive in nature. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of functional T-cell memory against dengue viruses and suggests an HLA-linked protective role for CD8
+
T cells. This demonstration of the protective role of T-cell responses points the way forward to identifying robust correlates of protection in natural immunity and vaccination against dengue virus.
Why Are Chinese Mothers More Controlling Than American Mothers? “My Child Is My Report Card”
Authors: Ng Florrie Fei‐Yin , Pomerantz Eva M. , Deng Ciping
Published: April 2013

Chinese parents exert more control over children than do American parents. The current research examined whether this is due in part to Chinese parents' feelings of worth being more contingent on children's performance. Twice over a year, 215 mothers and children (Mage = 12.86 years) in China and the United States (European and African American) reported on psychologically controlling parenting. Mothers also indicated the extent to which their worth is contingent on children's performance. Psychologically controlling parenting was higher among Chinese than American mothers, particularly European (vs. African) American mothers. Chinese (vs. American) mothers' feelings of worth were more contingent on children's performance, with this contributing to their heightened psychological control relative to American mothers.
Bundles of Firm Corporate Governance Practices: A Fuzzy Set Analysis
Authors: García‐Castro Roberto , Aguilera Ruth V. , Ariño Miguel A.
Published: April 2013

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

We explore how the combinations of firm‐level corporate governance (CG) practices embedded in different national governance systems lead to high firm performance.

Research Findings/Insights

Using fuzzy set/qualitative comparative analysis, we uncover a variety of findings. First, we show that within each of the stylized nationalCGmodels, there are multiple bundles of firm‐level governance practices leading to high firm performance (i.e., equifinality). Second, we provide evidence of complementarity as well as functional equivalence betweenCGpractices. Finally, we demonstrate that there can be heterogeneity (“differences in kind”) in firm governance practices within each stylized model ofCG.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

We build on the configurational and complementarity‐based approaches to make the following theoretical claims. First, governance practices within firm bundles do not always relate to each other in a monotonic and cumulative fashion as this entails higher costs and possibly over‐governance. Second, practices in bundles do not need to be aligned toward the insider or the outsider model (“similar in kind”). We argue that non‐aligned practices can also be complementary, creating hybrid governance forms. Third, we predict functional equivalence across bundles ofCGpractices which grants firms agency on which of the practices to implement in order to achieve high performance.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

We contribute to comparativeCGresearch by demonstrating that there are multiple governance paths leading to high firm performance, and that these practices do not always belong to the same national governance tradition. Therefore, our findings alert of the perils of “one size fits all” governance solutions when designing and implementingCGpolicies.
Probabilistic Selling, Channel Structure, and Supplier Competition*
Authors: Cai Gangshu (George) , Chen Ying‐Ju , Wu Chi‐Cheng , Hsiao Lu
Published: April 2013

Probabilistic selling has recently been introduced to facilitate consumer segmentation. It allows the retailer to mix products from multiple competing suppliers to generate a probabilistic good. The probabilistic good effectively creates consumer differentiation, and its presence invites extensive interactions among channel participants. In this article, we show that the equilibrium channel structure may be asymmetric: one supplier retains his brand‐name product and the other one delegates to the retailer. We further show that this asymmetric equilibrium can be mutually beneficial for all firms compared with other equilibria. In addition, the introduction of the probabilistic good is beneficial to the channel members.
Retailer Transshipment versus Central Depot Allocation for Supply Network Design
Authors: Rosales Claudia R. , Rao Uday S. , Rogers David F.
Published: April 2013

We consider a supply chain structure with shipments from an external warehouse directly to retailers and compare two enhancement options: costly transshipment among retailers after demand has been realized vs. cost‐free allocation to the retailers from the development of a centralized depot. Stochastic programming models are developed for both the transshipment and allocation structures. We study the impact of cost parameters and demand coefficient of variation on both system structures. Our results show an increasing convex relationship between average costs and demand coefficient of variation, and furthermore that this increase is more pronounced for the allocation structure. We employ simulation and nonlinear search techniques to computationally compare the cost performance of allocation and transshipment structures under a wide range of system parameters such as demand uncertainty and correlation; lead times from the external warehouse to retailers, from warehouse to central depot, and from depot to retailers; and transshipment, holding, and penalty costs. The transshipment approach is found to outperform allocation for a broad range of parameter inputs including many situations for which transshipment is not an economically sound decision for a single period. The insights provided enable the manager to choose whether to invest in reducing lead times or demand uncertainty and assist in the selection of investments across identical and nonidentical retailers.
A Cooperative Savings Game Approach to a Time Sensitive Capacity Allocation and Scheduling Problem
Authors: Aydinliyim Tolga , Vairaktarakis George L.
Published: April 2013

We consider a competitive scheduling setting with arbitrary number of agents each having the option to utilize two parallel resources to satisfy its demand: (i) an in‐house resource dedicated to process only the tasks of each specific agent, and (ii) a flexible resource capable of processing all agents' workloads. In a noncooperative setting, each agent would determine how much of its demand it will subcontract to the flexible resource with the objective to deliver its entire demand as quickly as possible subject to the priority rules set by the owner of the flexible resource (i.e., third‐party). In this study, we also allow for agents to coalesce with other agents and update their initial subcontracting decisions to attain rescheduling savings. Evidently, a grand coalition of all agents can coordinate to achieve the maximum savings possible, but the resulting schedule may yield individual losses for a subset of agents (which we refer to as “losers”), thus necessitating a transfer payment scheme to distribute the rescheduling savings among the agents in an equitable way. We model the rescheduling interactions among the agents as a cooperative savings game, and propose savings distribution schemes that invoke the core allocation concept.
To What Extent Did Ethnicity and Economic Issues Matter in the 2007 Disputed Kenyan Elections?
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Romero Roxana
Published: April 2013

This article assesses the key factors that influenced the intention to vote in the 2007 presidential election in Kenya, using data from a survey and other external datasets. Ethnicity was found to be one of the main factors. However, access to private and public goods, poverty and differences in wealth across ethnic groups also mattered, depending on how the voter claimed to be self‐identified. Those who self‐identified in terms of their ethnicity were influenced the most by access to services such as schools, health clinics and police stations, evidence suggesting that voters use ethnicity as a proxy to gauge which candidates will give them greater access to services provided by the state.
Hepatocyte transplantation for inherited metabolic diseases of the liver
Authors: Jorns C. , Ellis E. C. , Nowak G. , Fischler B. , Nemeth A. , Strom S. C. , Ericzon B. G.
Published: April 2013

Inherited metabolic diseases of the liver are characterized by deficiency of a hepatic enzyme or protein often resulting in life‐threatening disease. The remaining liver function is usually normal. For most patients, treatment consists of supportive therapy, and the only curative option is liver transplantation. Hepatocyte transplantation is a promising therapy for patients with inherited metabolic liver diseases, which offers a less invasive and fully reversible approach. Procedure‐related complications are rare. Here, we review the experience of hepatocyte transplantation for metabolic liver diseases and discuss the major obstacles that need to be overcome to establish hepatocyte transplantation as a reliable treatment option in the clinic.
Developing Guidelines for Disclosure or Non‐Disclosure of Bad News Around Life‐Limiting Illness and Death to People With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Tuffrey‐Wijne Irene , Giatras Nikoletta , Butler Gary , Cresswell Amanda , Manners Paula , Bernal Jane
Published: April 2013

Background

There is insufficient evidence to guide decisions around (non‐)disclosure of bad news of life‐limiting illness and death to people with intellectual disabilities.

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop guidelines for decisions about (non‐)disclosure of bad news around life‐limiting illness and death to people with intellectual disabilities, by examining stakeholders' preferences (and reasons) around disclosure and non‐disclosure.

Materials and methods

Focus groups and interviews were held with 109 participants: people with intellectual disabilities, family carers, intellectual disabilities professionals and medical healthcare professionals.

Results

People with intellectual disabilities had wide‐ranging views about disclosure. Reasons for non‐disclosure included: preventing distress; too difficult for the bearer of bad news; the bearer of bad news lacks knowledge; inability to understand; no sense of time; conflicting views among stakeholders. Reasons for disclosure included: a right to know; knowledge helps the person cope; need for involvement.

Conclusion

Disclosure of bad news could cause harm in some situations, but this needs careful assessment. The authors present guidelines for disclosure that now need to be tested in practice.
Upstream effects of a reservoir on fish assemblages 45 years following impoundment
Authors: Franssen N. R. , Tobler M.
Published: April 2013

Fish assemblage structure, rarefied species richness, species diversity and evenness of assemblages upstream of a reservoir in Oklahoma, U.S.A., were compared pre and post‐impoundment as well as in contemporary collections from streams above and below the reservoir. There were significant shifts in assemblage structure between historical and contemporary collections above the reservoir but not between contemporary assemblages above and below the impoundment. Indicator species analysis revealed that the sand shiner Notropis stramineus and fathead minnow Pimephales promelas have declined, whereas largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides and western mosquitofish Gambusia affinis have increased in relative abundance in assemblages upstream of the impoundment. Species richness was lower in contemporary assemblages compared with historical assemblages. Furthermore, contemporary assemblages below the dam had lower species richness, diversity and evenness compared with contemporary collections above the dam. These results highlight the spatial and temporal extent of reservoirs altering fish assemblages upstream of impoundments.
Genetic characterization and in vivo image analysis of novel zebrafish Danio rerio pigment mutants
Authors: Hsu C. C. , Pai W. Y. , Lai C. Y. , Lu M. W. , Her G. M.
Published: April 2013

This study reports the isolation and characterization of a new type of transparent zebrafish Danio rerio mutant called pinky (pk), which has been visually isolated from a spontaneous mutation in a D. rerio colony. The pk larvae possess complex mutations affecting pigmentation because of missing pigment cells or a dramatic reduction in the chromatophore number. The pk displays a totally colourless phenotype and adult body transplant with no other obvious external morphological abnormalities, except for a red retina. The molecular analysis results in several candidate genes, hps1, ap3m2 and rabggta, implicated in the Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome (HPS) genes associated with HPS in pk. To demonstrate its applications of deep‐tissue imaging, this study examines green fluorescent protein alone or with other fluorescent proteins to investigate their capability for using multilabelling purposes in live adult pk. In this study, pk is particularly valuable for tissue cell labelling and internal organogenesis studies because of its optical clarity in the adult body.
Review of the key results from the Swedish Obese Subjects (SOS) trial – a prospective controlled intervention study of bariatric surgery
Authors: Sjöström L.
Published: April 2013

Obesity is a risk factor for diabetes, cardiovascular disease events, cancer and overall mortality. Weight loss may protect against these conditions, but robust evidence for this has been lacking. The Swedish Obese Subjects (SOS) study is the first long‐term, prospective, controlled trial to provide information on the effects of bariatric surgery on the incidence of these objective endpoints. The SOS study involved 2010 obese subjects who underwent bariatric surgery [gastric bypass (13%), banding (19%) and vertical banded gastroplasty (68%)] and 2037 contemporaneously matched obese control subjects receiving usual care. The age of participants was 37–60 years and body mass index (BMI) was ≥34 kg m−2 in men and ≥38 kg m−2 in women. Here, we review the key SOS study results published between 2004 and 2012. Follow‐up periods varied from 10 to 20 years in different reports. The mean changes in body weight after 2, 10, 15 and 20 years were −23%, −17%, −16% and −18% in the surgery group and 0%, 1%, −1% and −1% in the control group respectively. Compared with usual care, bariatric surgery was associated with a long‐term reduction in overall mortality (primary endpoint) [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.54–0.92; P = 0.01] and decreased incidences of diabetes (adjusted HR=0.17; P < 0.001), myocardial infarction (adjusted HR = 0.71; P = 0.02), stroke (adjusted HR=0.66; P = 0.008) and cancer (women: adjusted HR = 0.58; P = 0.0008; men: n.s.]. The diabetes remission rate was increased severalfold at 2 years [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 8.42; P < 0.001] and 10 years (adjusted OR = 3.45; P < 0.001). Whereas high insulin and/or high glucose at baseline predicted favourable treatment effects, high baseline BMI did not, indicating that current selection criteria for bariatric surgery need to be revised.
Identifying cardiovascular disease risk and outcome: use of the plasma triglyceride/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration ratio versus metabolic syndrome criteria
Authors: Salazar M. R. , Carbajal H. A. , Espeche W. G. , Aizpurúa M. , Leiva Sisnieguez C. E. , March C. E. , Balbín E. , Stavile R. N. , Reaven G. M.
Published: April 2013

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been shown to predict both risk and CVD events. We have identified sex‐specific values for the triglyceride/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL‐C) ratio associated with an unfavourable cardio‐metabolic risk profile, but it is not known whether it also predicts CVD outcome.

Methods

To quantify risk for CVD outcomes associated with a high TG/HDL‐C ratio and to compare this risk with that predicted using MetS, a population longitudinal prospective observational study was performed in Rauch City, Buenos Aires, Argentina. In 2003 surveys were performed on a population random sample of 926 inhabitants. In 2012, 527 women and 269 men were surveyed again in search of new CVD events. The first CVD event was the primary endpoint. Relative risks for CVD events between individuals above and below the TG/HDL‐C cut‐points, and with or without MetS, were estimated using Cox proportional hazard.

Main Outcome

The first CVD event was the primary endpoint. Relative risks for CVD events between individuals above and below the TG/HDL‐C cut‐points, and with or without MetS, were estimated using Cox proportional hazard.

Results

The number of subjects deemed at ‘high’ CVD risk on the basis of an elevated TG/HDL‐C ratio (30%) or having the MetS (35%) was relatively comparable. The unadjusted hazard risk was significantly increased when comparing ‘high’ versus ‘low’ risk groups no matter which criteria was used, although it was somewhat higher in those with the MetS (HR = 3.17, 95% CI:1.79–5.60 vs. 2.16, 95% CI:1.24–3.75). However, this difference essentially disappeared when adjusted for sex and age (HR = 2.09, 95% CI:1.18–3.72 vs. 2.01, 95% CI:1.14–3.50 for MetS and TG/HDL‐C respectively).

Conclusions

An elevated TG/HDL‐C ratio appears to be just as effective as the MetS diagnosis in predicting the development of CVD.
Chromosome 9p21 genetic variation explains 13% of cardiovascular disease incidence but does not improve risk prediction
Authors: Gränsbo K. , Almgren P. , Sjögren M. , Smith J. G. , Engström G. , Hedblad B. , Melander O.
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the proportion of cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence that is explained by genetic variation at chromosome 9p21 and to test whether such variation adds incremental information with regard to CVD prediction, beyond traditional risk factors.

Design, setting and participants

rs4977574 on chromosome 9p21 was genotyped in 24 777 subjects from the Malmö Diet and Cancer study who were free from CVD prior to the baseline examination. Association between genotype and incident CVD (n = 2668) during a median follow‐up of 11.7 years was evaluated in multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. Analyses were performed in quartiles of baseline age, and linear trends in effect size across age groups were estimated in logistic regression models.

Results

In additive models, chromosome 9p21 significantly predicted CVD in the entire population (hazard ratio 1.17 per G allele, 95% confidence interval 1.11–1.23, P < 0.001). Effect estimates increased from the highest (Q4) to the lowest quartile (Q1) of baseline age, but this trend was not significant. The overall population attributable risk conferred by chromosome 9p21 in fully adjusted models was 13%, ranging from 17% in Q1 to 11% in Q4. Addition of chromosome 9p21 to traditional risk factors only marginally improved predictive accuracy.

Conclusion

The high population attributable risk conferred by chromosome 9p21 suggests that future interventions interfering with downstream mechanisms of the genetic variation may affect CVD incidence over a broad range of ages. However, variation of chromosome 9p21 alone does not add clinically meaningful information in terms of CVD prediction beyond traditional risk factors at any age.
Ectopic lipid storage and insulin resistance: a harmful relationship
Authors: Borén J. , Taskinen M.‐R. , Olofsson S.‐O. , Levin M.
Published: April 2013

Obesity increases the risk of metabolic diseases, including insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease. In addition to lipid accumulation in adipose tissue, obesity is associated with increased lipid storage in ectopic tissues, such as skeletal muscle and liver. Furthermore, lipid accumulation in the heart may result in cardiac dysfunction and heart failure. It has recently been demonstrated that intracellular lipid accumulation in ectopic tissues leads to pathological responses and impaired insulin signalling. Here, we will review the current understanding of how lipid storage and lipid droplet physiology affect the risk of developing metabolic diseases.
Emotional intelligence, life satisfaction and subjective happiness in female student health professionals: the mediating effect of perceived stress
Authors: Ruiz‐Aranda D. , Extremera N. , Pineda‐Galán C.
Published: April 2013

Accessible summary

The relevance of the scientific study of happiness and well‐being in health professionals has been emphasized. In this sense, the intelligent use of emotions is considered essential for one's psychological adaptation and well‐being. Health professionals have to deal with high levels of occupational stress and students in nursing, and allied health sciences need to develop the ability to manage their own emotions because an affective deficit in self‐regulation can lead to lower subjective well‐being.

This study aimed to examine the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and well‐being indicators (life satisfaction and happiness) in a 12‐week follow‐up study in female student health professionals. Moreover, we examined the mediator role of perceived stress on the relationship between EI and well‐being indicators.

Our study found that emotionally intelligent people evaluate situations as less stressful which results in a higher satisfaction with life and happiness.

Specific EI training programmes to help students to cope with the challenges they face should be included in the curriculum for students in nursing and allied health sciences.

The objective of the present study was to extend previous findings by examining the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and well‐being indicators (life satisfaction and happiness) in a 12‐week follow‐up study. In addition, we examined the influence of perceived stress on the relationship between EI and well‐being. Female students from the School of Health Sciences (n = 264) completed an ability measure of emotional intelligence. After 12 weeks, participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale and Subjective Happiness Scale. Participants with higher EI reported less perceived stress and higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness. The results of this study suggest that perceived stress mediates the relationship between EI and well‐being indicators, specifically life satisfaction and happiness. These findings suggest an underlying process by which high emotional intelligence may increase well‐being in female students in nursing and allied health sciences by reducing the experience of stress. The implications of these findings for future research and for working with health professions to improve well‐being outcomes are discussed.
Parliamentary Questions, Oversight, and National Opposition Status intheEuropeanParliament
Authors: Jensen Christian B. , Proksch Sven‐Oliver , Slapin Jonathan B.
Published: April 2013

This study examines when and why members of theEuropeanParliament (EP) use parliamentary questions as a form of fire alarm oversight. We argue that the multilevel nature of theEUpolitical system allows members of theEPfrom national opposition parties to use parliamentary questions to alert theEuropean Commission to governments' failures to implementEUpolicy. Representation in theEPprovides the only avenue for such oversight for national opposition parties. Using a new sample ofEPparliamentary questions, we demonstrate thatMEPsfrom national opposition parties are more likely to alert the Commission to violations ofEUlaw in their own member states. These parliamentary questions may lead the Commission to take legal action against member‐state governments.
Influence of Mediterranean diet on asthma in children: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Garcia‐Marcos L. , Castro‐Rodriguez J. A. , Weinmayr G. , Panagiotakos D. B. , Priftis K. N. , Nagel G.
Published: April 2013

Background

There is epidemiological evidence that Mediterranean diet exposure is associated with lower asthma prevalence in children. We aimed to summarize the available data and to know whether the Mediterranean setting modifies this association.

Methods

The literature search, up to May 2012, was on epidemiological studies in the general population of children assessing whether adherence to Mediterranean diet (measured as a score) was associated with the prevalence of ‘current wheeze’; ‘current severe wheeze’; or ‘asthma ever’. Odds ratios (OR) of the eight included studies compared the highest tertile of the score with the lowest. Random‐effects meta‐analyses for the whole group of studies and stratified by Mediterranean setting (centers <100 Km from the Mediterranean coast) were performed. Differences between strata were assessed using the Q test.

Results

For ‘current wheeze’, there was a negative significant association with the highest tertile of Mediterranean diet score (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.75–0.98; p = 0.02), driven by Mediterranean centers (0.79, 0.66–0.94, p = 0.009), although the difference with the non‐Mediterranean centers (0.91, 0.78–1.05, p = 0.18) was not significant. The results for ‘current severe wheeze’ were as follows: 0.82, 0.55–1.22, p = 0.330 (all); 0.66, 0.48–0.90, p = 0.008 (Mediterranean); and 0.99, 0.79–1.25, p = 0.95 (non‐Mediterranean); with the difference between regions being significant. For ‘asthma ever’, the associations were as follows: 0.86, 0.78–0.95, p = 0.004 (all); 0.86, 0.74–1.01, p = 0.06 (Mediterranean); 0.86, 0.75–0.98; p = 0.027 (non‐Mediterranean); with the difference between regions being negligible.

Conclusions

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet tended to be associated with lower occurrence of the three respiratory outcomes. For current and current severe wheeze, the association was mainly driven by the results in Mediterranean populations.
Complete Genome Sequence of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus 1A
Authors: Ling Paul D. , Reid Jeffrey G. , Qin Xiang , Muzny Donna M. , Gibbs Richard , Petrosino Joseph , Peng RongSheng , Zong Jian-Chao , Heaggans Sarah Y. , Hayward Gary S.
Published: April 2013

Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus 1A is a member of the
Proboscivirus
genus and is a major cause of fatal hemorrhagic disease in endangered juvenile Asian elephants worldwide. Here, we report the first complete genome sequence from this genus, obtained directly from necropsy DNA, in which 60 of the 115 predicted genes are not found in any known herpesvirus.
Move it to improve it (Mitii): study protocol of a randomised controlled trial of a novel web-based multimodal training program for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy
Authors: Boyd Roslyn N , Mitchell Louise E , James Sarah T , Ziviani Jenny , Sakzewski Leanne , Smith Anthony , Rose Stephen , Cunnington Ross , Whittingham Koa , Ware Robert S , Comans Tracey A , Scuffham Paul A
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Persons with cerebral palsy require a lifetime of costly and resource intensive interventions which are often limited by equity of access. With increasing burden being placed on health systems, new methods to deliver intensive rehabilitation therapies are needed. Move it to improve it (Mitii) is an internet-based multimodal programme comprising upper-limb and cognitive training with physical activity. It can be accessed in the client's home at their convenience. The proposed study aims to test the efficacy of Mitii in improving upper-limb function and motor planning. Additionally, this study hopes to further our understanding of the central neurovascular mechanisms underlying the proposed changes and determine the cost effectiveness of Mitii.

Methods and analysis

Children with congenital hemiplegia will be recruited to participate in this waitlist control, matched pairs, single-blind randomised trial. Children be matched at baseline and randomly allocated to receive 20 weeks of 30 min of daily Mitii training immediately, or waitlisted for 20 weeks before receiving the same Mitii training (potential total dose=70 h). Outcomes will be assessed at 20 weeks after the start of Mitii, and retention effects tested at 40 weeks. The primary outcomes will be the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS), the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA) and unimanual upper-limb capacity using the Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF). Advanced brain imaging will assess use-dependant neuroplasticity. Measures of body structure and functions, activity, participation and quality of life will be used to assess Mitii efficacy across all domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework.

Ethics and dissemination

This project has received Ethics Approval from the Medical Ethics Committee of The University of Queensland (2011000608) and the Royal Children's Hospital Brisbane (HREC/11/QRCH/35). Findings will be disseminated widely through conference presentations, seminars and peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Trial registration

ACTRN12611001174976
Preparation and Characterization of New Fulleride Materials for Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Borton Peter T. , Check Michael H. , Turner David B. , Dudis Douglas S.
Published: April 2013

A wide variety of fullerene based materials has shown great promise for energy conversion applications such as thermoelectric and photovoltaic devices. With their intrinsically low thermal conductivities, fullerene based materials may offer several advantages for thermoelectric applications over traditional inorganic based thermoelectric materials. Fulleride materials have already shown electrical properties spanning from the insulative to superconductive regimes. In order to rapidly advance the development of new transition metal fullerides, a thin film approach, novel wet chemical method, and chemical vapor deposition method were explored. Materials formed from these synthesis routes have been found to retain their low thermal conductivities. A present focus is on Raman spectral analysis for preliminary determination of the materials' stoichiometries.
Decacationic [70]Fullerene Approach for Efficient Photokilling of Infectious Bacteria and Cancer Cells
Authors: Huang Liyi , Wang Min , Sharma Sulbha , Sperandio Felipe , Maragani Satya , Nayka Suhasini , Chang Julie , Hamblin Michael , Chiang Long
Published: April 2013

Photodynamic inactivation of pathogenic bacteria and cancer cells by novel water-soluble decacationic fullerene monoadducts, C60[>M(C3N6+C3)2] and C70[>M(C3N6+C3)2], were investigated. In the presence of a high number of electron-donating iodide anions as parts of quaternary ammonium salts in the arm region, we found that C70[>M(C3N6+C3)2] produced more highly reactive HO• radical than C60[>M(C3N6+C3)2], in addition to singlet oxygen (1O2). This finding offers an explanation of the preferential killing of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by C60[>M(C3N6+C3)2] and C70[>M(C3N6+C3)2], respectively. The hypothesis is that 1O2 can diffuse more easily into porous cell walls of Gram-positive bacteria to reach sensitive sites, while the less permeable Gram-negative bacterial cell wall needs the more reactive HO• to cause real damage.
Metal Oxides Modified Mesoporous Carbon Supports as Anode Catalysts in DMFC
Authors: Kolla Praveen , Kerce Kimberly , Normah Yahaya , Fong Hao , Smirnova Alevtina
Published: April 2013

Ceramic metal oxides, such as titania and ceria were impregnated into mesoporous carbon aerogel and carbon supported platinum-ruthenium commercial catalyst using a modified sol-gel Pechini method. The synthesized catalyst structures with metal oxide nanoparticles were heat treated at 350oC and 600oC. The ceramic particles of 3-5nm in diameter were analyzed in regard to composition and morphology using XRD, HRTEM, EDS and BET analysis. Electrochemical activity and stability of metal oxide modified carbon aerogels and metal oxide infused into commercial catalyst were studied for methanol oxidation using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry in acidic and alkaline medium. Metal oxide modified carbon aerogels showed activity and stability in methanol oxidation. Greater stability, in comparison to Pt-Ru/C catalyst, was observed in the case of Pt-Ru/C infused with metal oxides. The activity in methanol oxidation was 3 times higher for CeO2 doped Pt-Ru/C compared to unmodified PtRu/C.
Electrochemical Properties of Electrode Obtained by Cyclic Oxidation and Reduction of Ni Powder
Authors: Jaron Artur , Zurek Zbigniew
Published: April 2013

The presented paper discusses a possibility of developing surface of nickel powder by cyclic oxidation (air) and reduction (H2) processes for their further use as electrode precursors, in electrochemical processes of hydrogen production. The studies of a samples surface were conducted with the use of SEM/EDX technique. The electrochemical properties of porous Ni electrodes were examined by potentiostatic method. The authors applied a rotating electrode during those tests. The current-potential relationship was obtained at 40ºC 1M KOH with Hg|HgO reference electrode, i.e. under conditions similar to the industrial process of hydrogen production.
New Proton Conductive Membranes Based on Acid-doped Interpenetrating Polymer Networks
Authors: Loureiro Felipe Augusto Moro , Pacheco Pereira Robson , Rocco Ana Maria
Published: April 2013

Membranes of interpenetrating polymer networks (IPN) were synthesized from polyethyleneimine (PEI) and DGEBA (diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A), which were immersed in a solution of H3PO4 order to obtain proton conductivity in the membranes. The IPN membranes were characterized by vibrational spectroscopy in the infrared and thermogravimetric analysis, IPN/H3PO4 for the system was studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The membrane retains water to a temperature above 210 ºC, with thermal stability greater than 270 ºC. The conductivity values were obtained from 10-4 to 10-3 Ω-1cm-1, raising the temperature 20-80 ºC respectively. The values of activation energy show the predominance of car for the driving mechanism of the proton for the systems in this way through their general properties of the membranes obtained are promising materials for application in fuel cells.
A 3-D Catalytic Electrode Structure for Ultra-Low Platinum Loading and High Performance PEMFCs
Authors: Zhu Wei , Liang Richard , Zheng Jim P.
Published: April 2013

The microstructure of the catalyst layer in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) greatly influences catalyst (Pt) utilization and cell performance. We demonstrated a 3-D catalyst electrode structure based on a double-layered carbon nanotube/nanofiber film- (buckypaper) supported Pt composite catalyst to approach an idealized microstructure. The gradient distribution of Pt, electrolyte and porosity along the thickness effectively depresses the transport resistance of proton and gas. Rated power of 1.5 W/cm2 and 0.76 W/cm2 at 0.65 V was achieved at 80ºC for oxygen and air with a low Pt loading of 0.2 mg cm 2 resulting in a relatively high Pt utilization. The accelerated stress test (AST) of catalyst support showed a good durability of buckypaper support because of the high graphitization degree of carbon nanofibers.
Composite Membrane of Zirconium Sulfate -Poly(Ether Sulfone Quinoxalines) for Hydrogen and Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
Authors: Sutrisno Joko , Pramudya Irawan , Latief Adelia , Hanbury Rigel , Fuchs Alan
Published: April 2013

The synthesis of aromatic polymers containing quinoxalines and preparation of composite proton exchange membranes with zirconium sulfate is described. Poly(ether sulfone quinoxalines) was synthesized via condensation polymerization from dihydroxyquinoxaline, bis(4-fluorophenyl)sulfone, and bisphenol monomers in N-methylpyrrolidone at 175-180oC. The synthesized polymer has a molecular weight of ~32,000 Daltons and glass transition temperature of ~176±2oC. The polymers were sulfonated using chlorosulfonic acid in concentrated sulfuric acid. The composite membranes were prepared from zirconium sulfate and blend of sulfonated poly(ether sulfone quinoxalines) and sulfonated polyethersulfone. Membrane electrode assemblies containing 25cm2 of active area were prepared with a catalyst loading of 3mg/cm2. The performance of the MEAs was characterized using a single fuel cell tester with hydrogen and methanol as the fuel sources. The methanol concentration was investigated from 3 v/v% to 20 v/v%. The peak power of the fuel cell was 108 mW for 20 v/v% methanol and a power of 750mW fueled with hydrogen at 5psi backpressure.
Computational Fluid Dynamics of Water Droplet Formation and Detachment from Gas Diffusion Layer
Authors: Ahmad Zakaria Y. , Didari Sima , Moon Jaeyun , Harris Tequila A L
Published: April 2013

Liquid water removal from a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell bipolar plate channel is critical for optimal performance and durability. A two-dimensional, two-phase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was created to simulate water droplet formation and removal. The numerical domain consist of a gas diffusion layer (GDL) and channel. The polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) loading in the GDL was varied by changing the surface tension and contact angle. The effect of 10%, 15%, and 20% PTFE loading on the droplet detachment velocity and penetration pressure was studied. It was found that increasing the PTFE loading decreased the detachment velocity due to lower wetting at the GDL surface. However, increasing the PTFE loading had the consequence of raising the required capillary pressure to penetrate the GDL. This was due to initial spreading of the water below the GDL and the formation of local water paths, which was observed for the higher PTFE loadings.
Characterization of Anion Exchange Membrane Technology for Low Cost Electrolysis
Authors: Ayers Katherine E. , Anderson Everett B. , Capuano Christopher B. , Niedzwiecki Michael , Hickner Michael A. , Wang Chao-Yang , Leng Yongjun , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2013

Proton OnSite's line of commercial products based on proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology is competitive with delivered hydrogen in many industrial gas markets. Proton has demonstrated significant efficiency improvements and cost reductions over the past several years. Still, major advances are required in order to provide a cost-competitive hydrogen source for energy markets. Alkaline exchange membranes (AEMs) offer a potential long term pathway to lower cost electrolysis because they can operate at the high current density and high differential pressure of the PEM while using non-precious metal catalysts and base metal cell materials for low cost. Proton is currently performing on an ARPA-E project in collaboration with Penn State to develop an AEM-based regenerative fuel cell. This paper describes progress to date on the AEM electrolyzer being developed under this effort.
Characteristics of Silicon Nitride Films Deposited by Cat-CVD at a Low Temperature (100 ℃)
Authors: Song Tae-Ho , Keum Ki-Su , Kang Sin-Young , Park Jung Hoon , Hong Wan-Shick
Published: April 2013

Silicon nitride (SiNx) films for use as gate dielectric layers in thin-film transistors (TFTs) were deposited by catalytic chemical vapor deposition (Cat-CVD) at a low substrate temperature (100 ºC). Filament geometry, spacing between the filament and the substrate, and process pressure were optimized to deposit reliable dielectric films at 100 ºC. Silane (SiH4), ammonia (NH3) and hydrogen (H2) were used as source gases, and the flow ratios of NH3 / SiH4 and H2 / SiH4 were varied from 10 to 60 and from 20 to 200, respectively. An in-situ chemical annealing was performed by using H2 during the deposition process. As a result, SiNx films having a composition close to stoichiometry, having an electrical resistivity of 1012 ohm∙cm and a breakdown field strength of 7 MV/cm, were obtained. These films are believed to be applicable to TFTs on plastic substrates.
Novel Functional Imaging of Changes in Small Airways of Patients Treated with Extrafine Beclomethasone/Formoterol
Authors: Vos Wim , De Backer Jan , Poli Gianluigi , De Volder Annick , Ghys Liesbet , Van Holsbeke Cedric , Vinchurkar Samir , De Backer Lieve , De Backer Wilfried
Published: April 2013

Background: Inhaled formulations using extrafine particles of long-acting β2-agonists and corticosteroids were developed to optimize asthma treatment. Findings that these combinations reach and treat smaller airways more effectively are predominantly based on general non-specific outcomes with little information on regional characteristics. Objectives: This study aims to assess long-term effects of extrafine beclomethasone/formoterol on small airways of asthmatic patients using novel functional imaging methods. Methods: Twenty-four stable asthma patients were subdivided into three groups (steroid naive, n = 7; partially controlled, n = 6; well controlled, n = 11). Current treatment was switched to a fixed combination of extrafine beclomethasone/formoterol (Foster®; Chiesi Pharmaceuticals, Parma, Italy). Patients underwent lung function evaluation and thorax high-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) scan. Local airway resistance was obtained from computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Results: After 6 months, the entire population showed improvement in pre-bronchodilation imaging parameters, including small airway volume (p = 0.0007), resistance (p = 0.011), and asthma control score (p = 0.016). Changes in small airway volume correlated with changes in asthma control score (p = 0.004). Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (p = 0.044) and exhaled nitric oxide (p = 0.040) also improved. Functional imaging provided more detail and clinical relevance compared to lung function tests, especially in the well-controlled group where only functional imaging parameters showed significant improvement, while the correlation with asthma control score remained. Conclusions: Extrafine beclomethasone/formoterol results in a significant reduction of small airway obstruction, detectable by functional imaging (HRCT/CFD). Changes in imaging parameters correlated significantly with clinically relevant improvements. This indicates that functional imaging is a useful tool for sensitive assessment of changes in the respiratory system after asthma treatment.
Significance of Urine Diagnostic Tests After Renal Transplantation
Authors: Jenni Fabienne , Riethmüller Sebastian , Wüthrich Rudolf P.
Published: April 2013

Background: Validity, reliability and clinical value of classical urinary parameters for transplant monitoring are controversial. Urinary parameters were analyzed regarding cost-effectiveness, frequency of urinary tract infection and prediction of renal graft function and rejection. Methods: Urinary parameters of the first two postoperative weeks of 120 renal transplant patients were retrospectively correlated with the postoperative course. Results: Creatinine levels were significantly different on each postoperative day between the groups with and without rejection. Osmolaluria, diuresis and serum creatinine are equivalent in predicting graft rejection. Osmolaluria is not suitable as a distinguishing criterion between graft rejection and other complications. Measurement of glucosuria has no diagnostic value. Proteinuria has no prognostic relevance regarding rejection, although proteinuria >0.5g/l occurred more often in patients with rejection. Despite antibiotic prophylaxis with co-trimoxazole, 41 of 120 patients (34%) suffered from urinary tract infection (UTI; mostly E. coli) within the first 14 days after transplantation. Conclusions: The measurement of some classical urinary parameters delivers no diagnostic gain. UTIs are frequent despite antibiotic prophylaxis, but the use of urine cultures makes sense only if a (cheaper) semiquantitative test is positive.
Bortezomib in Plasmablastic Lymphoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Saba Nakhle S. , Dang Daniella , Saba Jowana , Cao Christine , Janbain Maissaa , Maalouf Bassam , Safah Hana
Published: April 2013

Background: Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). While classically associated with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cases of PBL in immunocompetent patients have been increasingly described. PBL shares common morphological and immunohistochemical features with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and multiple myeloma (MM). Due to the rarity of PBL, there is no current consensual standard therapy available. As a result, PBL treatment is mirrored after aggressive NHL regimens. One of the newly emerged therapeutic options for PBL is bortezomib, which is a proteasome inhibitor and a cornerstone in MM therapy. In recently published cases, bortezomib has shown promising results in PBL. Case Report: In this report, we describe a patient with HIV-negative PBL who dramatically responded to bortezomib after failing several other lines of therapy. We also review 4 other, similar cases reported in the literature. Results and Conclusion: We conclude that bortezomib resulted in rapid and dramatical responses regardless of the line of therapy. Although most of these responses were not sustained, bortezomib represents a new therapeutic option for PBL that should be further explored in larger clinical trials.
Severe Disseminated Coagulopathy Caused by Adenocarcinoma with Bone Marrow Metastasis
Authors: Klenner Anne F. , Greinacher Andreas , Kuvikova Anna , Dölken Gottfried , Busemann Christoph
Published: April 2013

Background: Patients with mucin-producing adenocarcinoma have an increased risk for venous and arterial thrombosis. When these patients present with thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) is often the underlying cause. Case Report: We report 2 patients who were admitted due to bleeding symptoms of unknown cause, in whom further workup revealed adenocarcinoma-induced DIC. Conclusion: In elderly patients presenting with signs of DIC, such as reduced fibrinogen levels, elevated prothrombin time, elevated D-dimer, and thrombocytopenia, without any obvious reason (e.g., sepsis), adenocarcinoma-associated coagulopathy should be considered as the underlying cause. Paradoxically, in these patients bleeding symptoms improve when the patient is sufficiently anti-coagulated with low molecular weight heparin. Treatment of the underlying disease is of central importance in controlling acute or chronic DIC associated with malignant diseases and chemotherapy should be started as soon as possible.