bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Core–shell polypyrrole nanoparticles obtained by atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization
Authors: Vasquez‐Ortega Miguelina , Ortega Mauricio , Morales Juan , Olayo M Guadalupe , Cruz Guillermo J , Olayo Roberto
Published: May 2014

Polypyrrole hollow nanoparticles were prepared by atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization. The structure of the nanoparticles was studied using Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning and transmission electron microscopies and atomic force microscopy. In contrast to low‐pressure plasma polymerization of pyrrole, which can produce films and solid nanoparticles, we obtained two types of hollow nanoparticles: a fraction with single spherical core and another with a core composed of small bubbles. Thermal characterization allowed us to determine that the nanoparticles are composed of highly crosslinked polymer. A mechanism that explains the formation of both types of hollow nanoparticles as well as solid nanoparticles is proposed. Chemical characterization shows that, in addition to the expected chemical structures due to pyrrole polymerization, the high energy of the plasma at atmospheric pressure produces intense dehydrogenation and oxidation processes. The fluorescence spectrum of the nanoparticles, however, shows a peak at 482 nm indicating that some degree of π‐conjugation is present in the material. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
A novel temperature and pH dual‐responsive hybrid hydrogel with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane as crosslinker: synthesis, characterization and drug release properties
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Li Chong , Hu Yuelei , Liu Ruixue , He Linghao , Fang Shaoming
Published: May 2014

Octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OVPS) is used as the crosslinker instead of N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide (BIS) to copolymerize with 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) or DMAEMA and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) to prepare hybrid hydrogels: P(OVPS‐co‐DMAEMA) and P(OVPS‐co‐DMAEMA‐co‐NIPAM). The prepared hydrogels are transparent and show dual response to temperature and pH. The hydrogels were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis and tensile tests. Their mechanical properties, swelling ratio, deswelling and reswelling behaviors as well as drug release properties were investigated. The results indicate that OVPS can be incorporated into polymer networks in proportion to feed ratios. The P(OVPS‐co‐DMAEMA) hydrogel exhibits more homogeneous interior structure, higher swelling ratio and faster response than the conventional hydrogel prepared with BIS. Moreover, the incorporation of OVPS enhances the compression and tensile properties of the hydrogels. The feed ratios of OVPS and NIPAM have a great effect on volume phase transition temperature, thermal sensitivity, swelling behavior, mechanical properties and drug release properties of the hybrid hydrogels. The prepared dual‐responsive OVPS‐containing hydrogels are expected to be used as biomedical materials in drug release and tissue engineering. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Two types of q‐deformed Wigner algebra
Authors: Sang Chung W.
Published: May 2014

In this paper we introduce two types of q‐deformed Wigner algebras. One is q‐deformation of Wigner algebra with q‐reflection symmetry and another is q‐deformation of Wigner algebra with reflection symmetry. For two types of q‐deformed Wigner algebras, we investigate the representation and the eigenvalue of the position operator. Like q‐calculus, we introduce the (q; ν)‐ numbers, (q; ν)‐derivatives and (q; ν)‐Hermite polynomials for two algebras. For the deformation parameter q = 1 ‐ ϵ with small ϵ, we discuss the thermodynamics of the particle obeying the q‐deformed Wigner algebra.
Optimization of mechanical and giant magneto‐impedance (GMI) properties of melt‐extracted Co‐rich amorphous microwires
Authors: Shen Hongxian , Liu Jingshun , Wang Huan , Xing Dawei , Chen Dongming , Liu Yanfen , Sun Jianfei
Published: May 2014

In this work, we report a comprehensive investigation on mechanical and giant magneto‐impedance (GMI) properties of melt‐extracted Co‐rich amorphous microwires with the nominal composition of Co69.25Fe4.25Si13B13.5−xNbx (x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4). Results show that the tensile strength and GMI properties gradually increase with the substitution of B by Nb at first, and then decrease with a further Nb substitution. The melt‐extracted microwires with the substitution of B by 3% Nb exhibit a maximum tensile strength σm of 4000 ± 50 MPa owing to the formation of nanosized crystals in the amorphous matrix. In addition, the substitution of B by 1% Nb assures an excellent GMI property. At 5 MHz, the maximum GMI ratio [ΔZ/Zmax]max for the melt‐extracted microwires reaches as high as 450 ± 10% versus 380 ± 10% for traditional CoFeSiB microwires and the field‐response sensitivity increases from 350 ± 10% Oe−1 to 700 ± 10% Oe−1 for 1% Nb substitution. It is thus concluded that both mechanical and GMI properties of the melt‐extracted Co‐based amorphous microwires can be greatly improved by properly adding Nb, and this is promising for many engineering applications, including high‐resolution magnetic, stress and biomedical sensors.
Distributed consensus filter on directed switching graphs
Authors: Li Shuai , Guo Yi
Published: May 2014

We consider distributed estimation on a directed graph with switching topologies. Motivated by a recent PI consensus filter, we modify the protocol and remove the requirement of bidirectional exchange of neighboring gains for fixed topologies. We then extend the protocol to switching topologies and propose a new hybrid consensus filter design. Convergence results under both balanced directed, and general directed graphs are given for switching graphs. Consensus error bounds are analytically derived in the case of time‐varying inputs. Satisfactory simulation results are shown. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attribute‐based signature for threshold predicates from lattices
Authors: Wang Qingbin , Chen Shaozhen
Published: May 2014

In an attribute‐based signature (ABS), users sign signatures based on some predicate of attributes, using keys issued by a central authority. A signature reveals nothing about the attributes of the signer beyond the fact that they satisfy the signing predicate. This paper presents an ABS scheme for the case of threshold predicates from lattices. This scheme is existentially unforgeable against selective predicate and static chosen message attacks in the standard model, with respect to the hardness of the small integer solution problem. To the best of our knowledge, this work constitutes the first ABS scheme based on lattices, which is conjectured to thwart the quantum threat. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ToF‐SIMS spectra multivariate analyses for the chemical characterization of microelectronic low‐k materials
Authors: Scarazzini R. , Lépinay M. , Broussous L. , Barnes J. P. , Veillerot M. , Jousseaume V.
Published: May 2014

Ultra‐low‐k thin films are largely used as a dielectric in microelectronic interconnections; the most advanced ones are based on a porous organosilicate SiOCH skeleton where the porosity is obtained by removing a sacrificial porogen. During integrated circuits fabrication, low‐k materials are exposed to various processes (e.g. lithography, etching, and cleaning), which modify the physical and chemical properties of these layers. A depth‐resolved chemical characterization is therefore required to understand these changes and improve the fabrication process. In this work, an industrial porous low‐k material, exposed to typical integration processes (specifically plasma etching, wet cleaning, and surface restoration) is studied. Results show that the treatments made on the samples produce small changes in the data collected by time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry. These slight modifications have been interpreted and de‐convoluted using principal component analysis. Principal component analysis was applied to a large set of ions from mass spectra relative to a specific depth zone, i.e. the top surface, in order to characterize the near‐surface composition changing between the samples. This investigation led us to find a reduced set of ions discriminating the slight chemical differences between samples. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ZnO thin films prepared on titanium substrate by PLD technique at different substrate temperatures
Authors: Zeng Yong , Zhao Yan , Jiang Yijian
Published: May 2014

ZnO thin films were grown by pulsed laser deposition on titanium substrates at different substrate temperatures ranging from 300 to 700 °C. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS),photoluminescence, and Raman spectroscopy are employed to investigate the change of properties. XRD, XPS, and Raman data showed that the films consisted of TiO2 at high substrate temperature, which will deteriorate the crystallization quality of ZnO films. The optimum temperature for the growth of ZnO films on the Ti substrate is about 500 °C in this paper. The ZnO films grown on titanium substrate can be used in direct current, microwave, and medical applications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Country‐Specific Profiles of Performance Management in China, Germany, and the United States—An Empirical Test
Authors: Festing Marion , Knappert Lena
Published: May 2014

The vast majority of the literature on performance management (PM) chooses a contextual perspective, focusing on the cross‐country comparison of single elements of the PM system. Simultaneously, a conceptual basis and an encompassing comprehension of country‐specific peculiarities are lacking. Based on a suggested conceptualization of the elements of PM (criteria, actors, methods, purposes, feedback) and hypotheses developed from an encompassing literature review, the authors present empirical findings from a quantitative study including 167 managers from multinational enterprise (MNE) subsidiaries in three culturally and institutionally diverse major economies (Germany, United States, and China). Contrary to what the literature suggests about the local peculiarities of PM, the results of the present study show significant country‐specific differences in only 6 out of 16 investigated PM features. Furthermore, the analytical categorization of “Western” countries versus China cannot be empirically confirmed. In contrast, more similarities between China and Germany than between Germany and the United States are identified. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unmet Burden of Cleft Lip and Palate in Rural Gujarat, India: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Khajanchi Monty U. , Shah Hemant , Thakkar Purvi , Gerdin Martin , Roy Nobhojit
Published: May 2014

Background

The burden of cleft lip and palate (CLP) in the developing world is being tackled by local hospitals and international surgical missions. However, the unmet surgical burden of these conditions is not known, because there are few population‐based studies. We conducted this study to find the incidence and prevalence of cleft lip (CL), cleft palate (CP), and CLP and also estimate the unmet burden of these conditions.

Methods

Four blocks comprising of half a million people in the Patan district of Gujarat were chosen as the study areas. This study was conducted over a period of 3 months in 2009. Patients with CL, CP, and CLP were identified by community health workers using snowball sampling method. Data collected included demographics, type of cleft, operated or not, and place of operation. Disability adjusted life years (DALY) was calculated to measure the unmet burden of this disease.

Results

The most common among the three conditions was CL (69.4 %). Overall, cleft abnormalities were more common in males (61 %). The overall incidence and prevalence of cleft deformity was 0.73 per 1,000 live births and 0.1 per 1,000 people respectively. The unmet burden of surgical disease of these four blocks was 230 to 494 DALYs.

Conclusions

The incidence of CL with or without palate was found to be 0.7 per 1,000 live births. The large number of unoperated cases (backlog) of cleft deformities suggests a big burden of unmet need in rural India.
Non-Surgical Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis: A Aystematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Sims Susan E. G. , Miller Katherine , Elfar John C. , Hammert Warren C.
Published: May 2014

Background

Non-surgical approaches to treatment of lateral epicondylitis are numerous. The aim of this systematic review is to examine randomized, controlled trials of these treatments.

Methods

Numerous databases were systematically searched from earliest records to February 2013. Search terms included “lateral epicondylitis,” “lateral elbow pain,” “tennis elbow,” “lateral epicondylalgia,” and “elbow tendinopathy” combined with “randomized controlled trial.” Two reviewers examined the literature for eligibility via article abstract and full text.

Results

Fifty-eight articles met eligibility criteria: (1) a target population of patients with symptoms of lateral epicondylitis; (2) evaluation of treatment of lateral epicondylitis with the following non-surgical techniques: corticosteroid injection, injection technique, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin A injection, prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma or autologous blood injection, bracing, physical therapy, shockwave therapy, or laser therapy; and (3) a randomized controlled trial design. Lateral epicondylitis is a condition that is usually self-limited. There may be a short-term pain relief advantage found with the application of corticosteroids, but no demonstrable long-term pain relief. Injection of botulinum toxin A and prolotherapy are superior to placebo but not to corticosteroids, and botulinum toxin A is likely to produce concomitant extensor weakness. Platelet-rich plasma or autologous blood injections have been found to be both more and less effective than corticosteroid injections. Non-invasive treatment methods such as bracing, physical therapy, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy do not appear to provide definitive benefit regarding pain relief. Some studies of low-level laser therapy show superiority to placebo whereas others do not.

Conclusions

There are multiple randomized controlled trials for non-surgical management of lateral epicondylitis, but the existing literature does not provide conclusive evidence that there is one preferred method of non-surgical treatment for this condition. Lateral epicondylitis is a condition that is usually self-limited, resolving over a 12- to 18-month period without treatment.

Level of Evidence

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions to Authors for a complete description of level of evidence.
Forest pasturing of livestock in Norway: effects on spruce regeneration
Authors: Hjeljord Olav , Histøl Trond , Wam Hilde Karine
Published: May 2014

Forest pasturing of free-roaming livestock is a common practice in many parts of the world, but knowledge on how it affects tree regeneration in boreal forests is lacking. We mapped tree density, livestock site use and accumulated damage to young trees of commercial interest (Norway spruce, Picea abies L. Karst.) on 56 clearcuts inside and outside a fenced forest area used for livestock pasturing in Ringsaker, Norway. Inside the fence 56±1.8% of spruce trees were damaged compared to 37±3.4% outside. Proportion of damaged spruce trees was positively related to cattle use of the clearcut, but not so for sheep. On the most intensively used clearcuts, four out of five trees were damaged. The density of deciduous trees was five times lower inside compared to outside of the fence (varying with plant species). While livestock grazing may reduce resource competition in favour of spruce, the current animal density clearly is impeding forest regeneration in the study area.
FUNDAMENTAL DEFINITION OF THE SOLVENCY CAPITAL REQUIREMENT IN SOLVENCY II
Authors: Christiansen Marcus C. , Niemeyer Andreas
Published: May 2014

It is essential for insurance regulation to have a clear picture of the risk measures that are used. We compare different mathematical interpretations of the Solvency Capital Requirement (SCR) definition from Solvency II that can be found in the literature. We introduce a mathematical modeling framework that enables us to make a mathematically rigorous comparison. The paper shows similarities, differences, and properties such as convergence of the different SCR interpretations. Moreover, we generalize the SCR definition to future points in time based on a generalization of the value at risk. This allows for a sound definition of the Risk Margin. Our study helps to make the Solvency II insurance regulation more consistent.
The current landscape of adipose-derived stem cells in clinical applications
Authors: Lim Ming Hui , Ong Wee Kiat , Sugii Shigeki
Published: May 2014

Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are considered a great alternative source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Unlike bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs), ASCs can be retrieved in high numbers from lipoaspirate, a by-product of liposuction procedures. Given that ASCs represent an easily accessible and abundant source of multipotent cells, ASCs have garnered attention and curiosity from both scientific and clinical communities for their potential in clinical applications. Furthermore, their unique immunobiology and secretome are attractive therapeutic properties. A decade since the discovery of a stem cell reservoir residing within adipose tissue, ASC-based clinical trials have grown over the years around the world along with assessments made on their safety and efficacy. With the progress of ASCs into clinical applications, the aim towards producing clinical-grade ASCs becomes increasingly important. Several countries have recognised the growing industry of cell therapies and have developed regulatory frameworks to assure their safety. With more research efforts made to understand their effects in both scientific and clinical settings, ASCs hold great promise as a future therapeutic strategy in treating a wide variety of diseases. Therefore, this review seeks to highlight the clinical applicability of ASCs as well as their progress in clinical trials across various medical disciplines.
On certain properties of the compact Zakharov equation
Authors: Fedele Francesco
Published: May 2014

Long-time evolution of a weakly perturbed wavetrain near the modulational instability (MI) threshold is examined within the framework of the compact Zakharov equation for unidirectional deep-water waves (Dyachenko and Zakharov, JETP Lett., vol. 93, 2011, pp. 701–705). Multiple-scale solutions reveal that a perturbation to a slightly unstable uniform wavetrain of steepness $\mu $ slowly evolves according to a nonlinear Schrodinger equation (NLS). In particular, for small carrier wave steepness $\mu <\mu _{1}\approx 0.27$ the perturbation dynamics is of focusing type and the long-time behaviour is characterized by the Fermi–Pasta–Ulam recurrence, the signature of breather interactions. However, the amplitude of breathers and their likelihood of occurrence tend to diminish as $\mu $ increases while the Benjamin–Feir index (BFI) decreases and becomes nil at $\mu _{1}$. This indicates that homoclinic orbits persist only for small values of wave steepness $\mu \ll \mu _{1}$, in agreement with recent experimental and numerical observations of breathers. When the compact Zakharov equation is beyond its nominal range of validity, i.e. for $\mu >\mu _{1}$, predictions seem to foreshadow a dynamical trend to wave breaking. In particular, the perturbation dynamics becomes of defocusing type, and nonlinearities tend to stabilize a linearly unstable wavetrain as the Fermi–Pasta–Ulam recurrence is suppressed. At $\mu =\mu _{c}\approx 0.577$, subharmonic perturbations restabilize and superharmonic instability appears, possibly indicating that wave dynamical behaviour changes at large steepness, in qualitative agreement with the numerical simulations of Longuet-Higgins and Cokelet (Proc. R. Soc. Lond. A, vol. 364, 1978, pp. 1–28) for steep waves. Indeed, for $\mu >\mu _{c}$ a multiple-scale perturbation analysis reveals that a weak narrowband perturbation to a uniform wavetrain evolves in accord with a modified Korteweg–de Vries/Camassa–Holm type equation, again implying a possible mechanism conducive to wave breaking.
AUGUSTINE'S CONFESSIONS AS READ BY A MODERN LAW TEACHER
Authors: White James Boyd
Published: May 2014

Today I want to talk about Augustine's Confessions, a book that may seem a far cry indeed from the life of the modern lawyer—especially the lawyer for whom what we call “religion” seems a very distant matter. But I think Augustine has much to say to us about the nature of a good education, including a good legal education, and I hope this is so whether or not one shares his religious commitments.
Plasma lutein concentrations are related to dietary intake, but unrelated to dietary saturated fat or cognition in young children
Authors: Mulder Kelly A. , Innis Sheila M. , Rasmussen Betina F. , Wu Brian T. , Richardson Kelly J. , Hasman David
Published: May 2014

Lutein and zeaxanthin are xanthophyll carotenoids present in highly pigmented vegetables and fruits. Lutein is selectively accumulated in the brain relative to other carotenoids. Recent evidence has linked lutein to cognition in older adults, but little is known about lutein in young children, despite structural brain development. We determined lutein intake using FFQ, one 24 h recall and three 24 h recalls, plasma lutein concentrations and their association with cognition in 160 children 5·6–5·9 years of age, at low risk for neurodevelopmental delay. Plasma lutein was skewed, with a median of 0·23 (2·5th to 95th percentile range 0·11–0·53) µmol/l. Plasma lutein showed a higher correlation with lutein intake estimated as the average of three 24 h recalls (r 0·479; P = 0·001), rather than one 24 h recall (r 0·242; P = 0·003) or FFQ (r 0·316; P = 0·001). The median lutein intake was 697 (2·5th to 95th percentile range 178–5287) µg/d based on three 24 h recalls. Lutein intake was inversely associated with SFA intake, but dietary fat or SFA intakes were not associated with plasma lutein. No associations were found between plasma lutein or lutein intake and any measure of cognition. While subtle independent effects of lutein on child cognition are possible, separating these effects from covariates making an impact on both child diet and cognition may be difficult.
Arachidonic acid intake and asthma risk in children and adults: a systematic review of observational studies
Authors: Kakutani Saki , Egawa Kahori , Saito Kayo , Suzuki Toshihide , Horikawa Chika , Rogi Tomohiro , Kawashima Hiroshi , Shibata Hiroshi , Sasaki Satoshi
Published: May 2014

The effect of arachidonic acid (ARA) intake on asthma risk is unclear. The objective of the present review was to systematically evaluate available observational studies on the relationship between ARA exposure and asthma risk in children and adults. A PubMed search was conducted on 22 October 2013 and seventy-three publications were checked against predefined criteria for eligibility. To identify additional eligible publications, potentially relevant articles were searched from bibliographies of articles on ARA and asthma. A total of 2924 citations were scrutinised. Finally, fourteen articles were included. A quality assessment was conducted based on the reporting and methodological quality. A meta-analysis was not conducted; therefore, a qualitative assessment is presented. Three high-, two medium- and ten low-quality studies were reviewed. Eleven studies, including two high- and two medium-quality studies, did not find a significant association between ARA exposure and asthma risk. In contrast, one high-quality study indicated a significant trend toward reducing asthma risk in children with decreasing maternal ARA intake (Ptrend = 0·025), and one low-quality study reported a significant trend of increasing asthma risk with higher blood ARA levels (Ptrend = 0·007). In two low-quality studies, asthma patients had significantly lower blood ARA levels than controls (bothP < 0·05). These studies did not sufficiently demonstrate any relationships between ARA exposure and asthma risk because of the limited number of studies and their methodological limitations. They seem to suggest that ARA exposure is not consistently associated with asthma risk. Nevertheless, further evidence is required to prove or disprove the association.
MAPPing dark networks: A data transformation method to study clandestine organizations
Authors: GERDES LUKE M.
Published: May 2014

There is a growing consensus that dark networks require special methodological considerations, but little attention has been devoted to determining which data transformation processes are best suited to the study of dark networks. Standard approaches to the transformation of multi-modal data “fold” matrices, by binarizing the network and multiplying it against its transpose. Unfortunately, this process produces exaggerated results when applied to weighted networks, and consequently researchers often disregard information on tie-strength when transforming data. This paper evaluates previous attempts to overcome this limitation and assesses projection methods discovered by biologists and physicists, who have studied the problem of transforming weighted multi-modal networks within the specific context of these disciplines. However, the assumptions underlying these transformation processes limit their applicability to dark networks. This paper, therefore, offers the Median Additive Projection Process (MAPP), an approach to data transformation specifically designed for implementation in weighted, multi-modal dark networks. MAPP accounts for the ambiguity inherent to clandestine subject matter by treating relationship strength in a probabilistic fashion. Because agents' one-mode centrality rankings change significantly when different projection processes are applied to the same two-mode network, MAPP allows researchers to more accurately identify central actors in dark networks.
Energy density of the Scottish diet estimated from food purchase data: relationship with socio-economic position and dietary targets
Authors: Barton Karen L. , Wrieden Wendy L. , Sherriff Andrea , Armstrong Julie , Anderson Annie S.
Published: May 2014

Frequent consumption of energy-dense foods has been strongly implicated in the global increase of obesity. The World Cancer Research Fund suggests a population-level energy density (ED) goal for diets of 523 kJ/100 g (125 kcal/100 g) as desirable for reducing weight gain and related co-morbidities. However, there is limited information about the ED of diets of contemporary populations. The aims of the present study were to (1) estimate the mean ED of the Scottish diet, (2) assess differences in ED over time by socio-economic position, by household (HH) composition and for HH meeting dietary targets for fat and fruit and vegetables, and (3) assess the relationship between ED and the consumption of foods and nutrients, which are indicative of diet quality. ED of the diet was estimated from food (including milk) from UK food purchase survey data. The average ED of the Scottish diet was estimated as 718 kJ/100 g with no change between the survey periods 2001 and 2009. Individuals living in the most deprived areas had a higher mean ED than those living in the least deprived areas (737 v. 696 kJ/100 g). Single-parent HH had the highest mean ED (765 kJ/100 g) of all the HH surveyed. The mean ED of HH achieving dietary targets for fat and fruit and vegetables was 576 kJ/100 g compared with 731 kJ/100 g for non-achievers. HH within the lowest quintile of ED were, on average, closest to meeting most dietary guidelines. Food purchase data can be used to monitor the quality of the diet in terms of dietary ED of the population and subgroups defined by an area-based measure of socio-economic status.
The association between Mediterranean Diet Score and glucokinase regulatory protein gene variation on the markers of cardiometabolic risk: an analysis in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC)-Norfolk study
Authors: Sotos-Prieto Mercedes , Luben Robert , Khaw Kay-Tee , Wareham Nicholas J. , Forouhi Nita G.
Published: May 2014

Consumption of a Mediterranean diet (MD) and genetic variation in the glucokinase regulatory protein (GCKR) gene have been reported to be associated with TAG and glucose metabolism. It is uncertain whether there is any interaction between these factors. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to test the association of adherence to a MD and rs780094 (G>A) SNP in theGCKRgene with the markers of cardiometabolic risk, and to investigate the interaction between genetic variation and MD adherence. We studied 20 986 individuals from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC)-Norfolk study. The relative Mediterranean Diet Score (rMED: range 0–18) was used to assess MD adherence. Linear regression was used to estimate the association between the rMED, genotype and cardiometabolic continuous traits, adjusting for potential confounders. In adjusted analyses, we observed independent associations of MD adherence and genotype with cardiometabolic risk, with the highest risk group (AA genotype; lowest rMED) having higher concentrations of TAG, total cholesterol and apoB (12·5, 2·3 and 3·1 %, respectively)v.those at the lowest risk (GG genotype; highest rMED). However, the associations of MD adherence with metabolic markers did not differ by genotype, with no significant gene–diet interactions for lipids or for glycated Hb. In conclusion, we found independent associations of the rMED and of theGCKRgenotype with cardiometabolic profile, but found no evidence of interaction between them.
Effects of resveratrol alone or in combination with piperine on cerebral blood flow parameters and cognitive performance in human subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over investigation
Authors: Wightman Emma L. , Reay Jonathon L. , Haskell Crystal F. , Williamson Gary , Dew Tristan P. , Kennedy David O.
Published: May 2014

Previous research has shown that resveratrol can increase cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the absence of improved cognitive performance in healthy, young human subjects during the performance of cognitively demanding tasks. This lack of cognitive effects may be due to low bioavailability and, in turn, reduced bioefficacy of resveratrolin vivo. Piperine can alter polyphenol pharmacokinetics, but previous studies have not investigated whether this affects the efficacy of the target compound. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to ascertain whether co-supplementation of piperine with resveratrol affects the bioavailability and efficacy of resveratrol with regard to cognition and CBF. The present study utilised a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subjects design, where twenty-three adults were given placebo,trans-resveratrol (250 mg) andtrans-resveratrol with 20 mg piperine on separate days at least a week apart. After a 40 min rest/absorption period, the participants performed a selection of cognitive tasks and CBF was assessed throughout the period, in the frontal cortex, using near-IR spectroscopy. The presence of resveratrol and its conjugates in the plasma was confirmed by liquid chromatography–MS analysis carried out following the administration of the same doses in a separate cohort (n6). The results indicated that when co-supplemented, piperine and resveratrol significantly augmented CBF during task performance in comparison with placebo and resveratrol alone. Cognitive function, mood and blood pressure were not affected. The plasma concentrations of resveratrol and its metabolites were not significantly different between the treatments, which indicates that co-supplementation of piperine with resveratrol enhances the bioefficacy of resveratrol with regard to CBF effects, but not cognitive performance, and does this without altering bioavailability.
A ‘Galilean’ science of language
Authors: BEHME CHRISTINA
Published: May 2014

The Science of Language, published in the sixth decade of Noam Chomsky's linguistic career, defends views that are visibly out of touch with recent research in formal linguistics, developmental child psychology, computational modeling of language acquisition, and language evolution. I argue that the poor quality of this volume is representative of the serious shortcomings of Chomsky's recent scholarship, especially of his criticism of and contribution to debates about language evolution. Chomsky creates the impression that he is quoting titbits of a massive body of scientific work he has conducted or is intimately familiar with. Yet his speculations reveal a lack of even basic understanding of biology, and an unwillingness to engage seriously with the relevant literature. At the same time, he ridicules the work of virtually all other theorists, without spelling out the views he disagrees with. A critical analysis of the ‘Galilean method’ demonstrates that Chomsky uses appeal to authority to insulate his own proposals against falsification by empirical counter-evidence. This form of discourse bears no serious relation to the way science proceeds.
Detecting the elusive Scottish wildcat Felis silvestris silvestris using camera trapping
Authors: Kilshaw Kerry , Johnson Paul J. , Kitchener Andrew C. , Macdonald David W.
Published: May 2014

Population monitoring is important for conservation management but difficult to achieve for rare, cryptic species. Reliable information about the Critically Endangered Scottish wildcat Felis silvestris silvestris is lacking because of difficulties in morphological and genetic identification, resulting from extensive hybridization with feral domestic cats Felis catus. We carried out camera-trap surveys in the Cairngorms National Park, UK, to examine the feasibility of camera trapping, combined with a pelage identification method, to monitor Scottish wildcats. Camera trapping detected individually identifiable wildcats. Of 13 individual wild-living cats, four scored as wildcats based on pelage characters and the rest were wildcat × domestic cat hybrids. Spatially explicit capture–recapture density estimation methods generated a density of wild-living cats (wildcats and hybrids) of 68.17 ± SE 9.47 per 100 km2. The impact of reducing trapping-grid size, camera-trap numbers and survey length on density estimates was investigated using spatially explicit capture–recapture models. Our findings indicate camera trapping is more effective for monitoring wildcats than other methods currently used and capture success could be increased by using bait, placing camera stations ⩽ 1.5 km apart, increasing the number of camera stations, and surveying for 60–70 days. This study shows that camera trapping is effective for confirming the presence of the wildcat in potential target areas for conservation management.
POST-IMPLEMENTATION SURVEILLANCE OF A NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGY WITHIN A NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE
Authors: Campillo Carlos , Casamitjana Montserrat , Carrillo-Arias Fernando , Royuela Ana , Kovacs Francisco M. , Abraira Víctor
Published: May 2014

Objectives:The aim of this study was to describe 8-year results from post-implementation surveillance of neuroreflexotherapy (NRT), a health technology proven effective for treating neck and back pain.

Methods:Post-implementation surveillance included all patients undergoing NRT across five regions within the Spanish National Health Service (SNHS). Validated methods were used to assess pain, disability, adverse events, use of health resources, and patient satisfaction. Logistic regression models were developed to identify the variables associated with the risk of a pain episode requiring more than one NRT intervention. The number of relapses among discharged patients during the 8-year period was calculated.

Results:Between January 1, 2004, and June 30, 2012, 9,023 patients (median age: 53 years), presenting 11,384 subacute (25.2 percent) and chronic (74.8 percent), neck or back pain episodes, were discharged after receiving NRT. Spinal pain improved in 89 percent of cases, 83 percent abandoned drugs, and 0.02 percent required spine surgery. The only adverse event was skin discomfort (8.0 percent of patients). Number of patient complaints was 0, and answers to a standardized questionnaire reflected a high degree of satisfaction (response rate: 76.7 percent). Of the pain episodes, 18.9 percent required more than one NRT intervention; logistic regression models identified the variables associated with this. Over the 8-year period, the proportion of discharged patients referred for treatment due to relapse at the same level for neck, thoracic, and low back pain, was 16.4 percent, 6.5 percent, and 14.5 percent respectively.

Conclusions:Post-marketing surveillance for a non-pharmacological technology is feasible within the SNHS. These results support generalizing NRT across the entire SNHS under the current validated application conditions.
A Director's Journey from Performance Art to Ecological Aesthetics
Authors: Davis R. G.
Published: May 2014

R.G. Davis founded the company that became the San Francisco Mime Troupe as an experimental project of the Actors' Workshop in 1959. He left the Troupe in 1970, formed the Epic West Center in Berkeley for the study of Bertolt Brecht and epic theatre, and became a pioneering director in the United States successively of the plays of Brecht and Dario Fo, on which he wrote in the original Theatre Quarterly 40 (Autumn–Winter 1981) and in New Theatre Quarterly 8 (November 1986). In this article he traces the course of his subsequent career in creating experimental storytelling events and, via an interlude garnering academic qualifications, into the field of ecological aesthetics, which he defines as ‘a Brechtian aesthetic and ecological socialism interrogating each other within a scientific ecological conception of nature’. The present article is based on a lecture he gave in June 2013 at Stanford University.
Oral Healthcare Challenges for Older Punjabi-Speaking Immigrants
Authors: MacEntee Michael I. , Wong Sabrina T. , Smith André , Beattie B. Lynn , Brondani Mario , Bryant S. Ross , Graf Peter , Soheilipour Shimae
Published: May 2014

Cette étude a exploré comment les immigrants âgés d’origine sud-asiatique, parlant le pendjabi (quatre groupes de discussion; 33 participants) de Surrey en Colombie-Britannique, perçoivent leur santé buccale et les problèmes connexes. L’analyse a relevé deux thèmes généraux: les interprétations de la condition bucco-dentaire et les défis de santé bucco-dentaire. Le thème des interprétations avait quatre sous-thèmes: les dommages causés par lewai, les perturbations causé par la carie, l’adaptation aux prothèses dentaires, et qualité de vie; alors que le thème des défis considérés: remèdes à domicile, dentisterie occidentale; et difficultés d’accès aux dentistes. Les participants ont expliqué les maladies bucco-dentaires en termes d’une infection systémique (resha) et ont dit préféré les remèdes faits maison pour diminuer les écarts de chaleur (wai) dans la bouche. Nous concluons que les immigrants âgés d’origine sud-asiatique parlant le pendjabi interprète la santé et les maladies bucco-dentaires dans un contexte mixte de traditions occidentales et Ayurvédique, et gèrent leur santé buccale au moyen de remèdes traditionnels faits maison, complémentés au besoin par des soins d’urgence dispensés au Canada.
The generalized sin2ψ method: An advanced solution for X-ray stress analysis in textured materials
Authors: Haase A. , Klatt M. , Schafmeister A. , Stabenow R. , Ortner B.
Published: May 2014

Residual stress measurements on strongly textured materials using the standard sin2ψ evaluation show significant non-linearities. According to EN 15305 there is currently no existing solution for this problem. A method is presented that solves this problem. It is based on two tools. (i) The use of a one-dimensional detector having a large capture angle that yields the full diffraction profiles at each point of the pole figures. Therefore, some hundreds of d-values can be used for the stress calculation. (ii) Data evaluation with the recently developed generalized sin2ψ method. This has the advantage of being based on a flawless theory (Hooke's law in the special form of Dölle–Hauk's equation) and being able to handle any distribution of measurement directions and any number of measured data. The method was successfully tried out at a sheet of brass with significant texture.
Residual stress and quantitative phase mapping on complex geometries
Authors: Allahkarami Masoud , Hanan Jay C.
Published: May 2014

As a consequence of substantial advances in computer-aided design and manufacturing technology, engineering parts are no longer restricted to combination of simple geometrical shapes. Implementing complex curved surfaces in engineering components in combination with finite-element geometry optimization has become a prevalent means of designing a part. Measuring residual stresses using X-ray diffraction (XRD) on complex curved surfaces requires further development of current measurement methods. Here we investigate how a laboratory XRD system equipped with a five-axis stage and two-dimensional detector can execute sin2ψ residual stress measurements on curved surfaces. Shadowing that blocks the diffracted beam to reach the detector was avoided using proper rotations and tilting of the sample. A standard video-laser alignment system commonly used to manually place the sample in the center of diffraction was used to also generate virtual maps of the sample's curved surfaces on a fine mesh grid. The geometry was then used for setting the required rotations and tilt angles. A set of diffraction frames collected using this method on a model zirconia dental ceramic, afforded the opportunity to superimpose phase and stresses on a complex geometry. This is a step forward for the XRD technology, and its usefulness applies to many different industries.
La notion d’oubli associée aux questions: étude de ‘déjà’ mémoriel
Authors: APOTHÉLOZ DENIS
Published: May 2014

Cet article étudie un emploi de l’adverbedéjàqu’on rencontre exclusivement dans les questions. Cet emploi peut être illustré par l’exemple prototypique:Quel est son nom, déjà?Deux problèmes sont abordés: d’une part, le rapport complexe que cet emploi mémoriel dedéjàentretient avec les questions; d’autre part, les conséquences socio-interactionnelles que produit l’indication d’oubli à laquelle il est associé. On montre notamment que les questions marquées ainsi portent prioritairement sur l’oubli de formes linguistiques (noms propres et expressions). On formule par ailleurs une hypothèse rendant compte du fait quedéjàmémoriel marque une forte prédilection pour les questions ouvertes (partielles), au détriment des questions fermées (totales). L’article aborde également les rendements socio-interactionnels de cet adverbe et distingue trois circonstances d’emploi. Cette distinction est fondée sur les présomptions habituellement associées aux questions, en particulier celles commentées pardéjàmémoriel.
Toward Single Mode, Atomic Size Electron Vortex Beams
Authors: Krivanek Ondrej L. , Rusz Jan , Idrobo Juan-Carlos , Lovejoy Tracy J. , Dellby Niklas
Published: May 2014

We propose a practical method of producing a single mode electron vortex beam suitable for use in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The method involves using a holographic “fork” aperture to produce a row of beams of different orbital angular momenta, as is now well established, magnifying the row so that neighboring beams are separated by about 1 µm, selecting the desired beam with a narrow slit, and demagnifying the selected beam down to 1–2 Å in size. We show that the method can be implemented by adding two condenser lenses plus a selection slit to a straight-column cold-field emission STEM. It can also be carried out in an existing instrument, the monochromated Nion high-energy-resolution monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy-STEM, by using its monochromator in a novel way. We estimate that atom-sized vortex beams with ≥20 pA of current should be attainable at 100–200 keV in either instrument.
Medical ethics in peacetime and wartime: the case for a better understanding
Authors: Nathanson Vivienne
Published: May 2014

Health-care workers face ethical dilemmas in their decision-making in every clinical intervention they make. In times of armed conflict the decisions may be different, and the circumstances can combine to raise ethical tensions. This article looks at the tensions in peacetime and in times of armed conflict and examines the types of cases that doctors and other health-care workers will face. It also discusses the common ethical decision-making framework and the role of communication within both clinical care and ethical analysis.
Enjeux éthiques et sociaux de la médecine génomique
Authors: Barazzetti Gaia , Kaufmann Alain , Benaroyo Lazare
Published: May 2014

Die medizinische Genomik wird oft als neues Paradigma dargestellt, das eine personalisierte Therapie des Patienten erlaubt. Sie umfasst gleichzeitig eine Forschungsart und eine Zukunftsvision der Medizin und könnte einen gewaltigen Einfluss auf Diagnose, Therapie und Prävention haben. Dieser Artikel beleuchtet wichtige ethische und soziale Fragen, die durch die Genom-basierte Medizin aufgeworfen werden: Die Auswirkungen auf unser Verständnis der Krankheiten, die Frage der Gültigkeit und des klinischen Nutzens der Analyse des Genoms, die Kontrolle der genetischen Information von den Betreuenden und ihre Kommunikation zum Patienten sowie die Frage der Kosten für das Gesundheitssystems.
Role of MicroRNA29b in Blood–Brain Barrier Dysfunction during Hyperhomocysteinemia: An Epigenetic Mechanism
Authors: Kalani Anuradha , Kamat Pradip K , Familtseva Anastasia , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Muradashvili Nino , Narayanan Nithya , Tyagi Suresh C , Tyagi Neetu
Published: May 2014

Although blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity is maintained by the cross-talk of endothelial cells, junction proteins, and neurogliovascular network, the epigenetic mechanisms behind BBB permeability are largely unknown. We are reporting for the first time miR29b-mediated regulation of BBB, which is a novel mechanism underlying BBB integrity. We hypothesize that miR29b regulates BBB dysfunction by regulating DNMT3b, which consequently regulates the levels of metalloproteinases, that can eat up the membrane and junction proteins leading to leaky vasculature. In addition, 5′-azacytidine (5′-aza) was used to test its efficacy on BBB permeability. Blood–brain barrier disruption model was created by using homocysteine, and in the models miR29b was identified to be most affected, by using microRNA RT 2 -qPCR array. MiR29b mimics and inhibitors also confirmed that miR29b regulates the levels DNMT3b and MMP9. In hyperhomocysteinemic cystathionine-β-synthase deficient (CBS+/−) mice with high brain vessel permeability, miR29b levels were also high as compared with wild-type (WT) mice. Interestingly, 5′-aza improved BBB permeability by decreasing the expression of miR29b. In conclusion, our data suggested miR29b-mediated regulation of BBB dysfunction through DNMT3b and MMP9. It also potentiates the use of microRNAs as candidates for future epigenetic therapies in the improvement of BBB integrity.
A Review of Mixed‐Effects Models of Tumor Growth and Effects of Anticancer Drug Treatment Used in Population Analysis
Authors: Ribba B , Holford NH , Magni P , Trocóniz I , Gueorguieva I , Girard P , Sarr C , Elishmereni M , Kloft C , Friberg LE
Published: May 2014

Population modeling of tumor size dynamics has recently emerged as an important tool in pharmacometric research. A series of new mixed‐effects models have been reported recently, and we present herein a synthetic view of models with published mathematical equations aimed at describing the dynamics of tumor size in cancer patients following anticancer drug treatment. This selection of models will constitute the basis for the Drug Disease Model Resources (DDMoRe) repository for models on oncology.

CPT: Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology (2014) 3, e113; doi:10.1038/psp.2014.12; advance online publication 7 May 2014