bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do ATMs Increase Technical Efficiency of Banks in a Developing Country? Evidence from Indian Banks
Authors: Sathye Suneeta , Sathye Milind
Published: September 2016

Prior studies have confirmed that the greater the investment in information technology (IT), the better the performance of the firm. In the present study, we use bootstrap data envelopment analysis (DEA), which has previously been used in the accounting literature, and which has an edge over traditional accounting‐based measures, to compute the performance efficiency of Indian banks. Specifically, we measure the impact of automated teller machine (ATM) investment intensity on the production efficiency of Indian banks. We also study the impact of bank ownership, soundness, size and risk on efficiency. The study contributes to the literature on the productivity paradox and also draws on structure–conduct–performance theory. We find that ATM intensity has a significant negative association with bootstrap DEA technical efficiency. These results differ from prior research in developed countries. The results could be ascribed to heavy investment in IT such as ATMs by banks, and their inability to reduce labour costs given that many processes still continue to be manual. Accordingly, the study suggests that investment decisions with regard to IT need to be taken with great caution. If the related processes are not simultaneously automated, such investments are unlikely to yield the results that management may have envisaged.
Essentialist beliefs: Understanding contact with and attitudes towards lesbian and gay individuals
Authors: Lytle Ashley , Dyar Christina , Levy Sheri R. , London Bonita
Published: September 2016

Sexual prejudice remains a widespread problem worldwide. Past research demonstrates that cross‐orientation contact (contact between heterosexuals and lesbian/gay individuals) reduces sexual prejudice among heterosexuals, especially when contact is high quality. This study extends the literature on the relationship between cross‐orientation contact and sexual prejudice and the mediation of this relationship by intergroup anxiety by examining the role of a key ideology – essentialist beliefs about homosexuality (immutability, universality, and discreteness beliefs). Findings indicate that the mediation of the relationship between cross‐orientation contact and sexual prejudice by intergroup anxiety differs by level of essentialist beliefs. Additionally, the relationship between cross‐orientation contact and sexual prejudice appears to be mediated by essentialist beliefs as well as intergroup anxiety. These results suggest that individuals who endorse essentialist beliefs commonly associated with increased bias (high discreteness and low immutability and universality beliefs) may benefit the most from cross‐orientation contact and resultant decreases in intergroup anxiety. Further, decreasing essentialist beliefs generally associated with increased bias may be a mechanism through which cross‐orientation contact reduces sexual prejudice. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Berberine‐loaded Janus nanocarriers for magnetic field‐enhanced therapy against hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wang Ying‐shuai , Chang Zhi‐min , Li Li , Zhang Yi , Lu Meng‐meng , Zheng Xiao , Li Mingqiang , Shao Dan , Li Jing , Chen Li , Dong Wen‐fei
Published: September 2016

Berberine, an bioactive isoquinolin alkaloid from traditional Chinese herbs, is considered to be a promising agent based on its remarkable activity against hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the clinical application of this nature compound had been hampered owing to its properties such as poor aqueous solubility, low gastrointestinal absorption, and reduced bioavailability. Therefore, we developed Janus magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4‐mSiO2 NPs) consisting of a Fe3O4 head for magnetic targeting and a mesoporous SiO2 body for berberine delivery. A pH‐sensitive group was introduced on the surface of mesoporous silica for berberine loading to develop a tumor microenvironment‐responsive nanocarrier, which exhibited uniform morphology, good superparamagnetic properties, high drug‐loading amounts, superior endocytic ability, and low cytotoxicity. Berberine‐loaded Fe3O4‐mSiO2 NPs exerted extraordinarily high specificity for hepatocellular carcinoma cells, which was due to the pH‐responsive berberine release, as well as higher endocytosis capacity in hepatocellular carcinoma cells rather than normal liver cells. More importantly, an external magnetic field could significantly improve antitumor activity of Ber‐loaded Fe3O4‐mSiO2 NPs through enhancing berberine internalization. Taken together, our results suggest that Janus nanocarriers driven by the magnetic field may provide an effective and safe way to facilitate clinical use of berberine against hepatocellular carcinoma.
ABO blood group antigen mismatch has an impact on outcome after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation
Authors: Grube Matthias , Wolff Daniel , Ahrens Norbert , Herzberg Philipp Y. , Herr Wolfgang , Holler Ernst
Published: September 2016

ABO blood group antigen incompatibility (ABO mismatch) is not an obstacle to allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT). However, the impact on clinical outcome after allo‐SCT remains controversial. We analyzed 512 patients after allogeneic peripheral blood SCT (allo‐PBSCT) for an association of ABO mismatch with transfusion requirements, myeloid and platelet engraftment, the incidence of GvHD, relapse, transplant‐related mortality (TRM), and overall survival (OS). A total of 260 patients underwent ABO‐mismatched transplantation and the control group consisted of 252 patients with ABO‐matched allo‐PBSCT. We found a significant association between major‐0 ABO mismatch (group 0 recipient/group A, B, or AB donor) and increased red blood cell (RBC) and platelet transfusion requirements (both P<.001) as well as delayed platelet engraftment (P<.001). Minor‐A (group A recipient/group 0 donor) and minor‐AB (group AB recipient/group 0, A, or B donor) ABO mismatch was significantly associated with an increased TRM after allo‐PBSCT (P=.001 and P=.02). In multivariate analysis performed using Cox regression, minor ABO mismatch appeared as independent risk factor for TRM after allo‐PBSCT. No association was found for ABO mismatch with the incidence of GvHD, relapse, and OS. Our results suggest that ABO blood group mismatch has a significant impact on the outcome and that minor‐A and minor‐AB ABO mismatch represents a risk factor for increased TRM after allo‐PBSCT.
A resilience intervention involving mindfulness training for transplant patients and their caregivers
Authors: Stonnington Cynthia M. , Darby Betty , Santucci Angela , Mulligan Pamela , Pathuis Patricia , Cuc Andrea , Hentz Joseph G. , Zhang Nan , Mulligan David , Sood Amit
Published: September 2016

Solid organ and stem cell transplant patients and their caregivers report a substantial level of distress. Mindfulness‐based stress reduction has been shown to alleviate distress associated with transplant, but there is limited experience in this population with other mindfulness‐based interventions, or with combined transplant patient and caregiver interventions. We evaluated a novel, 6‐week mindfulness‐based resilience training (MBRT) class for transplant patients and their caregivers that incorporates mindfulness practice, yoga, and neuroscience of stress and resilience. Thirty‐one heart, liver, kidney/pancreas, and stem cell transplant patients and 18 caregivers at Mayo Clinic in Arizona participated. Measures of stress, resilience, depression, anxiety, health‐related quality of life, positive and negative affect, and sleep were completed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 3 months postintervention. At 6 weeks and 3 months, patients demonstrated significant (P<.005) improvements from baseline in measures of perceived stress, depression, anxiety, and negative affect. Quality‐of‐life mental component (P=.006) and positive affect (P=.02) also improved at follow‐up. Most participants adhered to the program, were satisfied with class length and frequency, and reported improved well‐being as a result of the class. MBRT holds promise as an intervention to enhance resilience and manage stress for transplant patients and their caregivers.
Role of long non‐coding RNAs in the determination of β‐cell identity
Authors: Motterle A. , Sanchez‐Parra C. , Regazzi R.
Published: September 2016

Pancreatic β‐cells are highly specialized cells committed to secrete insulin in response to changes in the level of nutrients, hormones and neurotransmitters. Chronic exposure to elevated concentrations of glucose, fatty acids or inflammatory mediators can result in modifications in β‐cell gene expression that alter their functional properties. This can lead to the release of insufficient amount of insulin to cover the organism's needs, and thus to the development of diabetes mellitus. Although most of the studies carried out in the last decades to elucidate the causes of β‐cell dysfunction under disease conditions have focused on protein‐coding genes, we now know that insulin‐secreting cells also contain thousands of molecules of RNA that do not encode polypeptides but play key roles in the acquisition and maintenance of a highly differentiated state. In this review, we will highlight the involvement of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a particular class of non‐coding transcripts, in the differentiation of β‐cells and in the regulation of their specialized tasks. We will also discuss the crosstalk between the activities of lncRNAs and microRNAs and present the emerging evidence of a potential contribution of particular lncRNAs to the development of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Cell fate conversion—from the viewpoint of small molecules and lineage specifiers
Authors: Zhao T. , Li Y. , Deng H.
Published: September 2016

Mammalian development was generally considered a naturally unidirectional and irreversible process. However, pioneering work of recent decades has highlighted the plasticity of mammalian cells and implied the possibilities of manipulating cell fate in vitro. Pluripotent stem cells, which hold great potential for regenerative medicine, have been shown to be reprogrammed from differentiated cells either by somatic cell nuclear transfer or by ectopic expression of pluripotency factors. Nevertheless, it remained unknown whether the reprogramming could be accomplished without pluripotency genes. Recent studies show that lineage specifiers play an important role in orchestrating the process of restoring pluripotency by replacing pluripotency‐associated transcription factors. Moreover, a combination of small molecules enables the acquisition of pluripotency from somatic cells without any transgenes, offering a tractable platform to precisely dissect the induction and maintenance of cell identity. Here, we will discuss recent scientific advances regarding the cell fate conversion mediated by small molecules or lineage specifiers, especially in the chemically induced somatic cell reprogramming process, and will provide new insights into the intermediate plastic state and “seesaw model” established by chemical approaches during reprogramming.
Revisiting the immunocytochemical detection of Neurogenin 3 expression in mouse and man
Authors: Honoré C. , Rescan C. , Hald J. , McGrath P. S. , Petersen M. B. K. , Hansson M. , Klein T. , Østergaard S. , Wells J. M. , Madsen O. D.
Published: September 2016

During embryonic development, endocrine cells of the pancreas are specified from multipotent progenitors. The transcription factor Neurogenin 3 (NEUROG3) is critical for this development and it has been shown that all endocrine cells of the pancreas arise from endocrine progenitors expressing NEUROG3. A thorough understanding of the role of NEUROG3 during development, directed differentiation of pluripotent stem cells and in models of cellular reprogramming, will guide future efforts directed at finding novel sources of β‐cells for cell replacement therapies. In this article, we review the expression and function of NEUROG3 in both mouse and human and present the further characterization of a monoclonal antibody directed against NEUROG3. This antibody has been previously been used for detection of both mouse and human NEUROG3. However, our results suggest that the epitope recognized by this antibody is specific to mouse NEUROG3. Thus, we have also generated a monoclonal antibody specifically recognizing human NEUROG3 and present the characterization of this antibody here. Together, these antibodies will provide useful tools for future studies of NEUROG3 expression, and the data presented in this article suggest that recently described expression patterns of NEUROG3 in human foetal and adult pancreas should be re‐examined.
Making β(‐like)‐cells from exocrine pancreas
Authors: Staels W. , De Groef S. , Bussche L. , Leuckx G. , Van de Casteele M. , De Leu N. , Baeyens L. , Heremans Y. , Heimberg H.
Published: September 2016

Creating an abundant source of β(‐like)‐cells has been a major goal in diabetes research for many decades. The concept of cell plasticity has inspired many strategies towards regenerative medicine, but its successes have been limited until very recently. Today, most cell types in the pancreas are considered candidates for the generation of β(‐like)‐cells through transdifferentiation. While β(‐like)‐cells that are in vitro differentiated from human embryonic stem cells are already being grafted in patients, β(‐like)‐cells generated by transdifferentiation are not yet ready for clinical application. These cells would however offer several advantages over the current β(‐like)‐cells generated by directed differentiation, especially concerning safety issues. In addition, perfect control of the transdifferentiation efficiency would through targeted drug delivery support a non‐invasive cell therapy for diabetes. Lastly, focusing on the exocrine pancreas as prime candidate makes sense in view of their abundance and high plasticity. Keeping these hopeful perspectives in mind, it is worth to continue focused research on the mechanisms that control transdifferentiation from pancreas exocrine to β‐cells.
Mechanisms of β‐cell functional adaptation to changes in workload
Authors: Wortham M. , Sander M.
Published: September 2016

Insulin secretion must be tightly coupled to nutritional state to maintain blood glucose homeostasis. To this end, pancreatic β‐cells sense and respond to changes in metabolic conditions, thereby anticipating insulin demands for a given physiological context. This is achieved in part through adjustments of nutrient metabolism, which is controlled at several levels including allosteric regulation, post‐translational modifications, and altered expression of metabolic enzymes. In this review, we discuss mechanisms of β‐cell metabolic and functional adaptation in the context of two physiological states that alter glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion: fasting and insulin resistance. We review current knowledge of metabolic changes that occur in the β‐cell during adaptation and specifically discuss transcriptional mechanisms that underlie β‐cell adaptation. A more comprehensive understanding of how β‐cells adapt to changes in nutrient state could identify mechanisms to be co‐opted for therapeutically modulating insulin secretion in metabolic disease.
Impact of Pdx1‐associated chromatin modifiers on islet β‐cells
Authors: Spaeth J. M. , Walker E. M. , Stein R.
Published: September 2016

Diabetes mellitus arises from insufficient insulin secretion from pancreatic islet β‐cells. In type 2 diabetes (T2D), β‐cell dysfunction is associated with inactivation and/or loss of transcription factor (TF) activity, including Pdx1. Notably, this particular TF is viewed as a master regulator of pancreas development and islet β‐cell formation, identity and function. TFs, like Pdx1, recruit coregulators to transduce activating and/or repressing signals to the general transcriptional machinery for controlling gene expression, including modifiers of DNA, histones and nucleosome architecture. These coregulators impart a secondary layer of control that can be exploited to modulate TF activity. In this review, we describe Pdx1‐recruited coregulators that impact chromatin structure, consequently influencing normal β‐cell function and likely Pdx1 activity in pathophysiological settings.
Novel factors modulating human β‐cell proliferation
Authors: Shirakawa J. , Kulkarni R. N.
Published: September 2016

β‐Cell dysfunction in type 1 and type 2 diabetes is accompanied by a progressive loss of β‐cells, and an understanding of the cellular mechanism(s) that regulate β‐cell mass will enable approaches to enhance hormone secretion. It is becoming increasingly recognized that enhancement of human β‐cell proliferation is one potential approach to restore β‐cell mass to prevent and/or cure type 1 and type 2 diabetes. While several reports describe the factor(s) that enhance β‐cell replication in animal models or cell lines, promoting effective human β‐cell proliferation continues to be a challenge in the field. In this review, we discuss recent studies reporting successful human β‐cell proliferation including WS6, an IkB kinase and EBP1 inhibitor; harmine and 5‐IT, both DYRK1A inhibitors; GNF7156 and GNF4877, GSK‐3β and DYRK1A inhibitors; osteoprotegrin and Denosmab, receptor activator of NF‐kB (RANK) inhibitors; and SerpinB1, a protease inhibitor. These studies provide important examples of proteins and pathways that may prove useful for designing therapeutic strategies to counter the different forms of human diabetes.
β‐Cell dysfunction in diabetes: a crisis of identity?
Authors: Brereton M. F. , Rohm M. , Ashcroft F. M.
Published: September 2016

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and a progressive loss of β‐cell function induced by a combination of both β‐cell loss and impaired insulin secretion from remaining β‐cells. Here, we review the fate of the β‐cell under chronic hyperglycaemic conditions with regard to β‐cell mass, gene expression, hormone content, secretory capacity and the ability to de‐ or transdifferentiate into other cell types. We compare data from various in vivo and in vitro models of diabetes with a novel mouse model of inducible, reversible hyperglycaemia (βV59M mice). We suggest that insulin staining using standard histological methods may not always provide an accurate estimation of β‐cell mass or number. We consider how β‐cell identity is best defined, and whether expression of transcription factors normally found in islet progenitor cells, or in α‐cells, implies that mature β‐cells have undergone dedifferentiation or transdifferentiation. We propose that even in long‐standing diabetes, β‐cells predominantly remain β‐cells—but not as we know them.
FUNDING FORMS, MARKET CONDITIONS, AND DYNAMIC EFFECTS OF GOVERNMENT R&D SUBSIDIES: EVIDENCE FROM CHINA
Authors: Guo Di , Guo Yan , Jiang Kun
Published: September 2016

We examine various factors that influence the effects of government‐subsidized research and development (R&D) programs on firm productivity. Based on a panel dataset of Chinese firms, we find the effects of the Innovation Fund for Small and Medium Technology Based Firms (Innofund) are dynamic over time and are heterogeneous depending on funding forms and the level of marketization and economic development across regions. In general, Innfound has significant and positive effects on firm productivity in both the short and long run. However, the short‐term effects of Innofund are stronger than the long‐term ones. Additionally, the positive effects of Innofund are stronger for firms backed by interest‐free bank loans than those supported by appropriation. Meanwhile, Innofund has stronger positive effects in provinces that are less market‐oriented or less developed economically. Finally, the short‐term effects of Innofund stay stronger than the long‐term ones even after we control the funding forms and the market conditions across regions. Identification and selection concerns are addressed through the propensity score matching approach and two‐stage estimation. (JEL G28 O38 H76)
Response to second treatment after initial failed treatment in a multicenter prospective infantile spasms cohort
Authors: Knupp Kelly G. , Leister Erin , Coryell Jason , Nickels Katherine C. , Ryan Nicole , Juarez‐Colunga Elizabeth , Gaillard William D. , Mytinger John R. , Berg Anne T. , Millichap John , Nordli Douglas R. , Joshi Sucheta , Shellhaas Renée A. , Loddenkemper Tobias , Dlugos Dennis , Wirrell Elaine , Sullivan Joseph , Hartman Adam L. , Kossoff Eric H. , Grinspan Zachary M. , Hamikawa Lorie ,   the Pediatric Epilepsy Research Consortium
Published: September 2016

Objective

Infantile spasms (IS) represent a severe epileptic encephalopathy presenting in the first 2 years of life. Recommended first‐line therapies (hormonal therapy or vigabatrin) often fail. We evaluated response to second treatment for IS in children in whom the initial therapy failed to produce both clinical remission and electrographic resolution of hypsarhythmia and whether time to treatment was related to outcome.

Methods

The National Infantile Spasms Consortium established a multicenter, prospective database enrolling infants with new diagnosis of IS. Children were considered nonresponders to first treatment if there was no clinical remission or persistence of hypsarhythmia. Treatment was evaluated as hormonal therapy (adrenocorticotropic hormone [ACTH] or oral corticosteroids), vigabatrin, or “other.” Standard treatments (hormonal and vigabatrin) were compared to all other nonstandard treatments. We compared response rates using chi‐square tests and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

One hundred eighteen infants were included from 19 centers. Overall response rate to a second treatment was 37% (n = 44). Children who received standard medications with differing mechanisms for first and second treatment had higher response rates than other sequences (27/49 [55%] vs. 17/69 [25%], p < 0.001). Children receiving first treatment within 4 weeks of IS onset had a higher response rate to second treatment than those initially treated later (36/82 [44%] vs. 8/34 [24%], p = 0.040).

Significance

Greater than one third of children with IS will respond to a second medication. Choosing a standard medication (ACTH, oral corticosteroids, or vigabatrin) that has a different mechanism of action appears to be more effective. Rapid initial treatment increases the likelihood of response to the second treatment.
A European monitoring protocol for the stag beetle, a saproxylic flagship species
Authors: Campanaro Alessandro , Zapponi Livia , Hardersen Sönke , Méndez Marcos , Al Fulaij Nida , Audisio Paolo , Bardiani Marco , Carpaneto Giuseppe M. , Corezzola Serena , Della Rocca Francesca , Harvey Deborah , Hawes Colin , Kadej Marcin , Karg Jerzy , Rink Markus , Smolis Adrian , Sprecher Eva , Thomaes Arno , Toni Ilaria , Vrezec Al , Zauli Agnese , Zilioli Michele , Chiari Stefano
Published: September 2016

Developing protocols for threatened invertebrates is often challenging, because they are not only rare but also elusive. This is the case with the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus), a protected and flagship species for the saproxylic beetle fauna in Europe.

We applied a standard transect walk at a European scale (8 countries, 29 transects) to test its practicability and reliability as survey design.

A total of 533 sightings were recorded throughout the sampling period, but detection probability changed as the season progressed. Considering the observed activity pattern, occupancy models showed that a short period of three consecutive weeks, between the middle of June and the first week of July, resulted in a high probability of detection (P > 0.7). As time of the peak of activity varies from year to year and between sites, we propose to extend the sampling period to five weekly surveys.

Detailed information on the transect characteristics and the optimal time for surveying were analysed. The data indicate that a weekly transect at dusk provides a reliable method for monitoring this species throughout its distributional range. No correlation was found between latitude, longitude and phenology of sightings, however.

However, a standard method such as the one presented, allows broadening the scale of monitoring studies, provinding data to evaluate the efficacy of conservation measures.
Evaluation of professional supervision in Aotearoa/New Zealand: An interprofessional study
Authors: Davys Allyson Mary , O'Connell Michael , May Janet , Burns Beverley
Published: September 2016

The evaluation of professional supervision has been a focus for discussion in the supervision literature over past decades. A review of the literature in this area, however, suggests that evaluation has been differently defined, variously addressed, and a range of outcomes reported. The present study reports the findings of the first stage of a three‐stage study of evaluation in professional supervision in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Experienced practitioners from the four professions of counselling, mental health nursing, psychology, and social work were interviewed to explore how evaluation in professional supervision is understood and actioned in practice. Twenty four semistructured interviews were conducted with supervisees, supervisors, and managers from each of the identified professions. The findings from these interviews indicate that a majority of participants applied some form of evaluation to their supervision arrangement. These evaluations, however, did not reflect an overarching organizational or professional culture of formal evaluation, but rather, an individualized ad‐hoc process initiated by one or both of the participants (supervisor and supervisee). These evaluations focussed predominantly on the process, rather than the outcomes, of supervision. While many respondents expressed interest in a formal process for evaluating supervision, a number of concerns were also raised. These concerns included a lack of evaluation skills and resource, the potential for formal evaluation to have a negative impact on the supervision relationship, the importance of maintaining the boundaries of confidentiality, and a wariness regarding the possible use of any information gathered.
Dense on Porous Solid LATP Electrolyte System: Preparation and Conductivity Measurement
Authors: Duluard Sandrine , Paillassa Aude , Lenormand Pascal , Taberna Pierre‐Louis , Simon Patrice , Rozier Patrick , Ansart Florence
Published: September 2016

A dense membrane of lithium aluminum titanium phosphate Li1+xAlxTi2−x(PO4)3, x = 0.3 (LATP) is deposited on a porous LATP substrate via wet chemistry. In the polymerized complex process, phosphate precursors with different active groups and steric hindrance are selected to tune precursor's reactivity. Rheological studies and microstructural observations lead to the selection of an LATP powder slurry charged with lithium, aluminum, titanium, and phosphate ion precursors. The optimized formulation is impregnated into a porous LATP substrate. After thermal treatment, dense LATP membranes on top of a porous LATP substrate are obtained with conductivities as high as 3 × 10−4 S/cm for the dense part, the porous part acting as a mechanical support. An original Van der Pauw impedance setup is validated for the measurement of the ionic conductivity of such dense/porous systems.
Fabrication of ThN Using a Carbothermic Reduction to Nitridation Process
Authors: Parkison Adam J. , Parker Stephen S. , Nelson Andrew T.
Published: September 2016

A carbothermic reduction to nitridation process was developed which is capable of producing high‐purity thorium mononitride (ThN) in bulk quantities. This was accomplished through study of three distinct processing routes using thermogravimetric analysis. The information gathered was then used to guide development of a draft process, which was tested within a tungsten production furnace. Scaling issues were identified and corrected following the draft process. Finally, a partitioned process was developed in response to the draft process which separates the reduction from the nitridation and carbon cleanup steps. This partitioned process was demonstrated to be capable of producing phase‐pure ThN, with oxygen and carbon impurities of 990 ± 130 wppm and 240 ± 30 wppm, respectively.
Thermodynamic Modeling of the HfO2–La2O3–Al2O3 System
Authors: Cao Zhanmin , Xie Wei , Qiao Zhiyu , Xing Xianran
Published: September 2016

Based on phase equilibria, thermodynamic, and crystal structure data, the thermodynamic modeling of HfO2–La2O3–Al2O3 system is presented. Liquid phase is described by the modified quasichemical model considering the short‐range ordering in liquid solution. Solid solutions are described by the ionic sublattice model considering respective crystal structure. The model (La3+, Hf4+)2(Hf4+, La3+)2(O2−, Va)6(O2−)1(Va, O2−)1 successfully describes the structure defect, homogeneity range, and thermodynamic property of pyrochlore solid solution. A set of optimized model parameters is obtained which reproduces most experimental data well. Isothermal sections, liquidus and solidus projections, and Scheil reaction scheme are constructed.
The Emergence for Multilamellar Ti–Al–N Solid Solution in Ti/AlN Composites Sintered at Various Temperatures
Authors: Wu Chao , Li Yunkai , Li Qinggang , Hou Guiqin
Published: September 2016

Nowadays, a variety of coatings such as Ti–Al–N and TiN have been proposed in titanium machining, but few results on fabrication of bulk Ti/AlN composites were reported. Here, we prepared bulk Ti‐60 wt%AlN composites via vacuum hot‐press sintering at 1250°C–1450°C under an applied pressure of 30 MPa for 1 h. With sintering temperature increasing, the mechanical properties of Ti/AlN composites improved and achieved the maximum values when the sintering temperature is 1450°C. SEM detected the multilamellar grains which are confirmed as Ti–Al–N solid solution by XRD and EDS. Finally, microstructure evolution and phase transformation of Ti/AlN composites were illustrated that Al and N atoms diffuse across the grain boundary and react with Ti atoms to form TiN phase and multilamellar Ti–Al–N solid solution. This work is interesting for producing high strength and toughens metal/ceramic composites.
Non‐Ohmic Properties and Electrical Responses of Grains and Grain Boundaries of Na1/2Y1/2Cu3Ti4O12 Ceramics
Authors: Jumpatam Jutapol , Somphan Weeraya , Boonlakhorn Jakkree , Putasaeng Bundit , Kidkhunthod Pinit , Thongbai Prasit , Maensiri Santi
Published: September 2016

The dielectric and non‐Ohmic properties of Na1/2Y1/2Cu3Ti4O12 ceramics sintered under various conditions to obtain different microstructures were investigated. Microstructure analysis confirmed the presence of Na, Y, Cu, Ti, and O and these elements were well dispersed in the microstructure. Na1/2Y1/2Cu3Ti4O12 ceramics exhibited non‐Ohmic characteristics with large nonlinear coefficients of about 5.7–6.6 irrespectively of sintering conditions. The breakdown electric field of fine‐grained ceramic with the mean grain size of ≈1.7 μm (≈5600 V/cm) was much larger than those of the course‐grained ceramics with grain sizes of ≈9.5–10.4 μm (≈1850–2180 V/cm). Through optimization of sintering conditions, a low loss tangent of about 0.03 and very high dielectric permittivities of 18 000–23 000 with good temperature stability were successfully accomplished. The electrical responses of the grains and grain boundaries can, respectively, be well described using admittance and impedance spectroscopy analyses based on the brickwork layer model. A possible mechanism for the origin of semiconducting grains is discussed. The colossal dielectric response was reasonably described as closely correlated with the electrically heterogeneous microstructure by means of strong interfacial polarization at the insulating grain‐boundary layers. The non‐Ohmic properties of Na1/2Y1/2Cu3Ti4O12 ceramics were primarily related to their microstructure, i.e., grain size and volume fraction of grain boundaries.
Electromechanical Response of Polycrystalline Barium Titanate Resolved at the Grain Scale
Authors: Majkut Marta , Daniels John E. , Wright Jonathan P. , Schmidt Søren , Oddershede Jette
Published: September 2016

Ferroic materials are critical components in many modern devices. Polycrystalline states of these materials dominate the market due to their cost effectiveness and ease of production. Studying the coupling of ferroic properties across grain boundaries and within clusters of grains is therefore critical for understanding bulk polycrystalline ferroic behavior. Here, three‐dimensional X‐ray diffraction is used to reconstruct a 3D grain map (grain orientations and neighborhoods) of a polycrystalline barium titanate sample and track the grain‐scale non‐180° ferroelectric domain switching strains of 139 individual grains in situ under an applied electric field. The map shows that each grain is located in a very unique local environment in terms of intergranular misorientations, leading to local strain heterogeneity in the as‐processed state of the sample. While primarily dependent on the crystallographic orientation relative to the field directions, the response of individual grains is also heterogeneous. These unique experimental results are of critical importance both when building the starting conditions and considering the validity of grain‐scale modeling efforts, and provide additional considerations in the design of novel ferroic materials.
Effect of Microwave Processing on the Crystallization and Energy Density of BaO‐Na2O‐Nb2O5‐SiO2‐B2O3 Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Davis Calvin , Pertuit Andre L. , Nino Juan C.
Published: September 2016

Barium sodium niobate (BNN) glass‐ceramics were successfully synthesized through a controlled crystallization method, using both a conventional and a microwave hybrid heating process. The dielectric properties of glass‐ceramics devitrified at different temperatures and conditions were measured. It was found that the dielectric constant increased with higher crystallization temperature, from 750°C to 1000°C, and that growth of the crystalline phase above 900°C was essential to enhancing the relative permittivity and overall energy storage properties of the material. The highest energy storage was found for materials crystallized conventionally at 1000°C with a discharge energy density of 0.13 J/cm3 at a maximum field of 100 kV/cm. Rapid microwave heating was found to not give significant enhancement in dielectric properties, and coarsening of the ferroelectric crystals was found to be critical for higher energy storage.
Palatal wound healing using a xenogeneic collagen matrix – histological outcomes of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Hilbe Monika , Bienz Stefan P. , Sancho‐Puchades Manuel , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: September 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to test whether or not a collagen matrix can improve early wound healing compared to spontaneous healing based on histological and immunohistologic analyses.

Methods

In 20 volunteers, 6 mm punch biopsies were harvested at the palate. A xenogeneic collagen matrix (XCM) was sutured in one site; the other one was left untreated (control). Biopsies with a diameter of 8 mm were subsequently obtained at 4, 8, 15 and 29 days and histological and immunohistologic analyses were performed.

Results

At day 4, wound bed keratinization amounted to 12.4 ± 7.5% (control) and 18.0 ± 10.2% (XCM). This increased up to day 8 (19.7 ± 25.5% control; 29.1 ± 8.0% XCM) and reached complete keratinization at day 15 in both groups. The quantitative analyses of the superficial compartment measured an increase in the amount of granulation tissue (32–88% control; 14–41% XCM) from day 4 to day 8. Angiogenesis was first detected at 8 days. At day 29, the amount of connective tissue in all compartments reached values similar to the native tissue at baseline.

Conclusions

The application of a XCM as a wound dressing on palatal wounds might be beneficial in the early stages of wound healing. Further research with a larger sample size is needed to confirm these results.
Rumination in dysphoric mothers negatively affects mother–infant interactions
Authors: Tester‐Jones Michelle , Karl Anke , Watkins Edward , O'Mahen Heather
Published: September 2016

Background

Postnatal maternal depressive symptoms are consistently associated with reduced quality of mother–infant interaction. However, there is little research examining the role of maternal cognitive factors (e.g. rumination) in the relationship between depressive symptoms and mother–infant interaction quality. This study investigated the hypotheses that: dysphoric mothers would demonstrate less sensitive behaviour towards their infants compared with nondysphoric mothers; mothers induced to ruminate would be less sensitive towards infants; rumination would moderate the relationship between maternal depressive symptoms and maternal sensitivity and the impact of the rumination induction would increase following a stressor (still face) task.

Method

Mothers (N = 79; 39 dysphoric and 40 nondysphoric) and their infants were randomised to either a rumination induction or a control condition. Maternal sensitivity in mother–infant interactions was assessed before and after the induction using the CARE Index. In the second interaction task, mothers also completed the still‐face procedure as a stressor.

Results

Extending previous research, mixed measures ANOVAs demonstrated that dysphoric mothers had reduced quality of interaction with their infant compared with nondysphoric mothers and that mothers in the rumination condition exhibited reduced sensitivity towards their infants relative to mothers in the control condition. Further, maternal sensitivity worsened further after the still‐face procedure in the rumination condition, but not in the control condition.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the repetitive, internal focus of a ruminative state is causally implicated in mother–infant interaction quality, regardless of the level of depressive symptoms. This research extends understanding of specific mechanisms involved in the quality of the mother–infant relationship.
Lessons Learned from Developing a Trauma Consultation Protocol for Juvenile and Family Courts
Authors: Marsh Shawn C. , Summers Alicia , DeVault Alicia , Guillermo Villalobos J.
Published: September 2016

Juvenile and family courts hold a unique position among the many stakeholders that comprise a healing community for persons experiencing adversity or trauma. Specifically, judges and other court leaders can promote the implementation of screening for trauma, the alignment of appropriate and effective treatment for trauma when indicated, and the accountability of systems for coordination and support of such services. To that end, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges undertook a field‐based project — consisting of multiple semi‐structured court surveys — to elucidate the key features of a trauma‐informed court and how to assist courts in becoming more trauma‐responsive for both consumers and staff. With the assistance of courts in 11 pilot sites across the nation, the project has led to the development of a protocol called trauma consultation or trauma audit, which is outlined here. Our work in developing the consultation protocol highlighted the need to better understand (1) the prevalence and impact of secondary traumatic stress in court staff, (2) the potential for environment to contribute to traumatic stress reactions, and (3) the importance of consistent trauma screenings and subsequent use of findings. Practical suggestions for courts to become more trauma‐informed are also provided.
Family Drug Treatment Courts As Comprehensive Service Models: Cost Considerations
Authors: Brook Jody , Akin Becci A. , Lloyd Margaret H. , Johnson‐Motoyama Michelle , Yan Yueqi
Published: September 2016

Literature on family drug treatment courts (FDTCs) suggests that parental participation in these courts is associated with improved substance abuse treatment and child welfare system outcomes. Despite these beneficial outcomes, FDTCs serve only 7‐10% of eligible child welfare involved families. As part of a FDTC evaluation, this FDTC site sought to provide stakeholders with information about costs and benefits. Considering the program costs alongside the cost avoidance from reduced time in foster care, this analysis determined that FDTC participation resulted in a net savings per child of $9,710. The cost component of the evaluation proved valuable, challenging, and informative.
Comparison of skin properties in individuals living in cities at two different altitudes: an investigation of the environmental effect on skin
Authors: Lee Myeongryeol , Jung Yuchul , Kim Eunjoo , Lee Hae Kwang
Published: September 2016

Background

Skin properties vary depending on exogenous factors. Various studies have been used for comparing skin properties between cities for studying environment influence on skin properties. However, for comparison of skin properties between cities, various environmental factors have to be considered.

Objectives

The purpose of this study therefore was to compare skin properties in individuals of the same ethnicity and sex (Indonesian women) between different altitudes and to interpret the environmental effect on skin.

Methods

In this study, we reanalyzed the data obtained from previous study. The data were for healthy Sundanese Indonesian females [(n = 136) at Jakarta (n = 49) and Bandung (n = 87)], and the data consisted of published data (skin hydration, sebum level, pH, elasticity, and transepidermal water loss) and unpublished data [skin color (L*, a*, and b*)]. The skin parameters were measured on Indonesian females aged 20–34 using C+K devices (corneometer, sebumeter, pH meter, and cutometer), Delfin vapometer, and Minolta spectrophotometer, respectively.

Results

Sundanese Jakarta (low‐altitude) females had higher sebum level and greater redness (a*) value in the forehead than Sundanese Bandung (high‐altitude) females. In contrast, Bandung females had higher skin pH, brighter skin color, and greater forehead skin elasticity than Jakarta females.

Conclusions

The skin properties can be influenced by changing altitude because different altitudes have different environments such as air temperature, humidity, UV radiation, and so on, and it is also necessary to investigate the factors which can influence with perceived skin condition such as skin type and skin concerning.
Platelet Activation and Clopidogrel Effects on ADP‐Induced Platelet Activation in Cats with or without the A31P Mutation in MYBPC3
Authors: Li R.H.L. , Stern J.A. , Ho V. , Tablin F. , Harris S.P.
Published: September 2016

Background

Clopidogrel is commonly prescribed to cats with perceived increased risk of thromboembolic events, but little information exists regarding its antiplatelet effects.

Objective

To determine effects of clopidogrel on platelet responsiveness in cats with or without the A31P mutation in the MYBPC3 gene. A secondary aim was to characterize variability in feline platelet responses to clopidogrel.

Animals

Fourteen healthy cats from a Maine Coon/outbred mixed Domestic cat colony: 8 cats homozygous for A31P mutation in the MYPBC3 gene and 6 wild‐type cats without the A31P mutation.

Methods

Ex vivo study. All cats received clopidogrel (18.75 mg PO q24h) for 14 days. Before and after clopidogrel treatment, adenosine diphosphate (ADP)‐induced P‐selectin expression was evaluated. ADP‐ and thrombin‐induced platelet aggregation was measured by optical aggregometry (OA). Platelet pVASP and ADP receptor response index (ARRI) were measured by Western blot analysis.

Results

Platelet activation from cats with the A31P mutation was significantly (P = .0095) increased [35.55% (18.58–48.55) to 58.90% (24.85–69.90)], in response to ADP. Clopidogrel treatment attenuated ADP‐induced P‐selectin expression and platelet aggregation. ADP‐ and PGE1‐treated platelets had a similar level of pVASP as PGE1‐treated platelets after clopidogrel treatment. Clopidogrel administration resulted in significantly lower ARRI [24.13% (12.46–35.50) to 11.30% (−7.383 to 23.27)] (P = .017). Two of 13 cats were nonresponders based on OA and flow cytometry.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Clopidogrel is effective at attenuating platelet activation and aggregation in some cats. Cats with A31P mutation had increased platelet activation relative to the variable response seen in wild‐type cats.
Hepatitis C – the brain strain
Authors: Forton Daniel M.
Published: September 2016

See Article on Page 1418
Explaining age differences in positive attitudes towards national commemorations: the role of what people commemorate
Authors: de Regt Sabrina , Jaspers Eva , van der Lippe Tanja
Published: September 2016

Commemorations of shared national history are important to the process of nation‐building. Support for such national commemorations is not, however, evenly distributed in societies. Because this could endanger the possible integrative function of commemorative ceremonies, it is important to understand the sources of structural differences in support. In this article, age differences in support for national commemorations in the Netherlands are examined. It is argued that because age cohorts grow up with different ideas on what should be commemorated they also differ in value attached to such commemorations. Data from the National Freedom Enquiry 2012 show that older persons more often associate national commemorations with the Second World War than younger persons do, and that this is the reason why they are more supportive of the annual celebration of Liberation Day. In the concluding section, it is argued that more (quantitative) studies should be conducted in order to truly understand the mechanisms behind support of national commemorations as this may help us to better comprehend the processes construing feelings of national belonging.
Information thresholds, habitat loss and population persistence in breeding birds
Authors: Schmidt Kenneth A.
Published: September 2016

The combination of spatial structure and non‐linear population dynamics can promote the persistence of coupled populations, even when the average population growth rate of the patches seen in isolation would predict otherwise. This phenomenon has generally been conceptualized and investigated through the movement of individuals among patches that each holds many individuals, as in metapopulation models. However, population persistence can likewise increase as the result of individuals moving among sites (e.g. breeding territories) within in a single patch. Here I examine the latter: individuals making small‐scale informed decisions with respect to where to breed can promote population persistence in poor environments. Based on a simple algebraic model, I demonstrate information thresholds, and predict that greater information use is required for population persistence under lower spatial heterogeneity in habitat quality, all else equal. Second, I implement an individual‐based model to explore prior experience and prospecting on conspecific success within a more complex, and spatially heterogeneous environment. Uniquely, I jointly examine the effects of simulated habitat loss, spatial heterogeneity prior to habitat, and variation in information gathering on population persistence. I find that habitat loss accelerates population quasi‐extinction risk; however, information use reduces extinction probabilities in proportion to the level of information gathering. Per capita reproductive success declines with number of breeding sites, suggesting that information‐mediated Allee effects may contribute to extinction risk. In conclusion, my study suggests that populations in a changing world may be increasingly vulnerable to extinction where patch size and spatial heterogeneity constrain the effectiveness of information‐use strategies.