bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land cover and water yield: inference problems when comparing catchments with mixed land cover
Authors: van Dijk A. I. J. M. , Peña-Arancibia J. L. , (Sampurno) Bruijnzeel L. A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Controlled experiments provide strong evidence that changing land cover (e.g. deforestation or afforestation) can affect mean catchment streamflow (Q). By contrast, a similarly strong influence has not been found in studies that interpret Q from multiple catchments with mixed land cover. One possible reason is that there are methodological issues with the way in which the Budyko framework was used in the latter type studies. We examined this using Q data observed in 278 Australian catchments and by making inferences from synthetic Q data simulated by a hydrological process model (the Australian Water Resources Assessment system Landscape model). The previous contrasting findings could be reproduced. In the synthetic experiment, the land cover influence was still present but not accurately detected with the Budyko- framework. Likely sources of interpretation bias demonstrated include: (i) noise in land cover, precipitation and Q data; (ii) additional catchment climate characteristics more important than land cover; and (iii) covariance between Q and catchment attributes. These methodological issues caution against the use of a Budyko framework to quantify a land cover influence in Q data from mixed land-cover catchments. Importantly, however, our findings do not rule out that there may also be physical processes that modify the influence of land cover in mixed land-cover catchments. Process model simulations suggested that lateral water redistribution between vegetation types and recirculation of intercepted rainfall may be important.
The coherence of small island sea-level with the wider ocean: a model study
Authors: Williams Joanne , Hughes Christopher W.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Studies comparing tide gauge measurements with sea level from nearby satellite altimetry have shown good agreement for some islands, and poor agreement for others, though no explanation has been offered. Using the 1/12° OCCAM ocean model, we investigate the relationship between sea level at small, open-ocean islands, and offshore sea level. For every such island or seamount in the model, we compare the shallow-water sea level with the steric and bottom pressure variability in a neighboring ring of deep water. We find a latitude-dependent range of frequencies for which off-shore sea level is poorly correlated with island sea level. This poor coherence occurs in a spectral region for which steric signals dominate, but are unable to propagate as baroclinic Rossby waves. This mode of decoupling does not arise because of island topography, as the same decoupling is seen between deep ocean points and surrounding rings.
LHC High- Runs: Transport and Unfolding Methods
Authors: Trzebiński M. , Staszewski R. , Chwastowski J.
Published: September 2012

The paper describes the transport of the elastically and diffractively
scattered protons in the proton-proton interactions at the LHC for the
high- runs. A parametrisation of the scattered proton transport through
the LHC magnetic lattice is presented. The accuracy of the unfolding of
the kinematic variables of the scattered protons is discussed.
Analytical Methods in Gravitational Microlensing
Authors: Zhdanov V. I. , Alexandrov A. N. , Fedorova E. V. , Sliusar V. M.
Published: September 2012

We discuss analytical results dealing with photometric and astrometric gravitational microlensing. The first two sections concern approximation methods that allow us to get solutions of the general lens equation near fold caustics and cusp points up to any prescribed accuracy. Two methods of finding approximate solutions near the fold are worked out. The results are applied to derive new corrections to total amplifications of critical source images. Analytic expressions are obtained in case of the Gaussian, power-law, and limb-darkening extended source models; here we present the first nonzero corrections to the well-known linear caustic approximation. Possibilities to distinguish different source models in observations are discussed on the basis of statistical simulations of microlensed light curves. In the next section, we discuss astrometric microlensing effects in various cases of extended sources and extended lenses, including a simple model of weak statistical microlensing by extended dark matter clumps. Random walks of a distant source image microlensed by stochastic masses are estimated. We note that the bulk motion of foreground stars induces a small apparent rotation of the extragalactic reference frame. Compact analytical relations describing the statistics of such motions are presented.
A Method for Simulating Nonnormal Distributions with SpecifiedL-Skew,L-Kurtosis, andL-Correlation
Authors: Headrick Todd C. , Pant Mohan D.
Published: September 2012

This paper introduces two families of distributions referred to as the symmetricκand asymmetric - distributions. The families are based on transformations of standard logistic pseudo-random deviates. The primary focus of the theoretical development is in the contexts ofL-moments and theL-correlation. Also included is the development of a method for specifying distributions with controlled degrees ofL-skew,L-kurtosis, andL-correlation. The method can be applied in a variety of settings such as Monte Carlo studies, simulation, or modeling events. It is also demonstrated that estimates ofL-skew,L-kurtosis, andL-correlation are superior to conventional product-moment estimates of skew, kurtosis, and Pearson correlation in terms of both relative bias and efficiency when moderate-to-heavy-tailed distributions are of concern.
The Fallacy of 'True and False' in Prophecy Illustrated by Jer 28:8-9
Authors: De Jong Matthijs J
Published: September 2012

The study of ancient Near Eastern prophecy has shown that a principal distinction between ‘prophecy of salvation’ and ‘prophecy of judgement’ is questionable. The prophets in the ancient Near East did much more than just speaking pleasant words to those who paid them. Encouragement, although taking a prominent position in ancient Near Eastern prophecy, was accompanied by divine claims. Both in Mari and in Assyria, we see that if such claims were not granted or if a king had otherwise not fulfilled his duties, the gods, through their prophets, could reproach him. More drastically, prophecy of encouragement could be turned upside down. Whereas normally the gods encouraged the king and an- nounced the annihilation of his enemies, announcements of annihi- lation could also be directed against the king as part of a declaration of divine support to his adversary. The same prophetic voice that encouraged and legitimized the king, could also formulate demands on him, or even choose the side of his adversaries. The fact that prophets functioned within the existing order did not mean that they always agreed with the king and his politics. The interest of the cosmic and social-political order could well transcend the interests of an individual king.
Lockout Device Prevents Tampering
Authors: Rule James
Published: September 2012

Customers sometimes tamper with their water meter registers to reduce the amount of water billed, which causes all sorts of problems for the utility, from lost revenue to damaged property. The Lockout Device prevents such tampering as well as meter removal. The device has two small tabs and a rolled ring to prevent a meter's gauge from being removed so the meter can't register water flow. Two small extensions also cover nuts that attach the meter body to the service line.
A Theoretical Proposal for a Perceptually Driven, Food-Based Disgust that Can Influence Food Acceptance During Early Childhood
Authors: Brown Steven Daniel , Harris Gillian
Published: September 2012

Disgust, the “revulsion at the prospect of (oral) incorporation of an offensive substance”, is not thought to influence the acceptability of food during infancy and early childhood. This is because the feelings of disgust require a person to have developed an understanding of contagion and to be aware of the nature and origin of a given disgust stimulus, which does not occur until around seven years of age. Despite this need for higher cognitive functioning, studies have demonstrated the potential for disgust in children as young as two years of age. Furthermore, it seems that young children can demonstrate aspects of disgust without having the cognitive understanding of contagion. This review is the first paper to demonstrate how core disgust may influence the acceptability of foods from late infancy. Firstly, food neophobia may act as a catalyst for disgust. Secondly, that disgust in young children can result from the visual perceptual features of food (as opposed to a cognitive response based on non-food disgust stimuli). Thirdly, that some disliked foods have contaminating properties, much like non-food, adult disgust stimuli (e.g. insects). Fourthly, that the response reduces as the child ages and learns more about food and its variability between presentations. Finally, individual differences exist to explain why an individual child may be more or less likely to respond to a given food with a disgust response. This proposal adds to the current debate relating to the motivations of ‘picky’ eating during early childhood and introduces an alternative to the proposal that these behaviours are the result of a child’s desire for autonomy.
Nutritional Risk Screening Tools in Hospitalised Children
Authors: Moeeni Vesal , Day Andrew S
Published: September 2012

In clinical practice, the assessment of nutritional status in children can be problematic. More than one indicator is often required: these may include anthropometric measurements, body compartment analysis and biochemical markers. The nutritional status of children at the time of admission to hospital can impact adversely on their hospital stay. Furthermore, children’s medical conditions may also impact upon their nutrition during a hospital stay.
In recent years a number of Nutrition Risk Screening (NRS) tools have been developed and validated, with the goals of providing rapid assessment of children’s risk of nutritional change during a hospitalisation. This article reviews the current NRS tools, considers their benefits and shortcomings and evaluates the potential roles of these tools
Do all Pediatric Urine Specimens Need to Go to the Laboratory?
Authors: Ali Syed Rehan , Ahmed Shakeel , Nizami Sobia , Qadir Maqbool
Published: September 2012

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the urine dipstick in diagnosing UTIs in children at a tertiary care centre in Pakistan.
Methods: 72 inpatients at the Aga Khan Hospital pediatric ward, getting laboratory urinalysis due to UTI suspicion, were included. Dipstick tests were done on the urine samples being sent to the lab for microscopy. The sensitivity, specificity and likelihood ratios (LRs) of dipstick LE, and pyuria and bacteriuria on microscopy were calculated and compared, using urine culture results as the gold standard for diagnosis.
Results: The specificity of dipstick LE, pyuria and bacteriuria were 77%, 77% and 90% respectively, while the positive likelihood ratios were was 28%, 44% and 49% respectively. Urine cultures were done for 58 patients, with 5 positive cultures, so plausible estimates of sensitivity were not made.
Conclusions: Urine microscopy is a more accurate screening test for ruling in UTIs than the dipstick. Keeping in mind its diagnostic limitations, the dipstick can be used to help rule in a UTI, although confirmation by cultures is recommended. Further studies are needed to validate these results in children and to evaluate the dipstick’s sensitivity for ruling out disease.
Apontamentos e reflexões sobre a sexualidade da pessoa com deficiência intelectual
Authors: Passos Garcia Wallisten
Published: September 2012

Os trabalhos científicos sobre a sexualidade da pessoa com deficiência intelectual são em sua maioria teóricos ou direcionados a investigar o pensamento de pais e profissionais e seu modo de proceder. Poucos estudos têm o objetivo de compreender quais são as experiências, necessidades e sentimentos que as próprias pessoas com deficiência intelectual têm frente a sua sexualidade. Este artigo teve como objetivo investigar a compreensão que as pessoas com deficiência intelectual têm a respeito da sua sexualidade. Por meio do método fenomenológico foram entrevistadas pessoas jovens com deficiência intelectual de uma escola especial na cidade de Curitiba, estado do Paraná. A análise dos dados deu-se conforme as premissas estabelecidas pelo método escolhido. Como resultado, os participantes trouxeram suas compreensões e necessidades em relação a três categorias: namoro, experiência sexual e casamento. Discute-se que as pessoas com deficiência intelectual têm uma representação e vivência a respeito de sua sexualidade que precisam ser consideradas ao se trabalhar com os mesmos. Evidenciou-se a importância de redimensionar os serviços educacionais e terapêuticos voltados a essas pessoas, com base em uma compreensão global das questões relacionadas à saúde sexual da população em estudo, por meio de um trabalho que envolva a equipe médica e educativa, os familiares e principalmente a própria pessoa com deficiência intelectual.
Differences in Bladder Care for Veterans with Multiple Sclerosis by Treatment Location
Authors: Marrie Ruth Ann , Cutter Gary , Tyry Tuula , Campagnolo Denise , Vollmer Timothy
Published: September 2012

Previous work suggested that veterans with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) had greater access to multidisciplinary care than veterans treated elsewhere. It is unknown whether other VHA-related differences in processes of MS care exist. Using the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) Registry, we aimed to compare bladder management reported by veterans who receive care through the VHA (VHA veterans) and those who do not (non-VHA veterans). In 2005, NARCOMS participants completed the Urogenital Distress Inventory–6 (UDI-6) and reported urologic investigations and treatments. Using multivariable logistic regression, we assessed the independent association of VHA care with investigations or treatments. A total of 1247 veterans with MS responded to the questionnaire, of whom 1230 (98.6%) reported where they received their health care. Of these, 583 (47.4%) received some or all of their care through the VHA. After adjustment for demographic and clinical factors, VHA veterans more frequently reported undergoing urologic investigations than non-VHA veterans (adjusted odds ratio, 2.02; 95% confidence interval, 1.55–2.61). VHA veterans more frequently reported using pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions than non-VHA veterans. Differences exist in the processes of MS bladder care between the VHA and elsewhere; this variation suggests the availability of opportunities to optimize such care.
Does provider‐initiated counselling and testing (PITC) strengthen early diagnosis and treatment initiation? Results from an analysis of an urban cohort of HIV‐positive patients in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Topp Stephanie M , Li Michelle S , Chipukuma Julien M , Chiko Matimba M , Matongo Evelyn , Bolton‐Moore Carolyn , Reid Stewart E
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Building on earlier works demonstrating the effectiveness and acceptability of provider‐initiated counselling and testing (PITC) services in integrated outpatient departments of urban primary healthcare clinics (PHCs), this study seeks to understand the relative utility of PITC services for identifying clients with early‐stage HIV‐related disease compared to traditional voluntary testing and counselling (VCT) services. We additionally seek to determine whether there are any significant differences in the clinical and demographic profile of PITC and VCT clients.

Methods

Routinely collected, de‐identified data were collated from two cohorts of HIV‐positive patients referred for HIV treatment, either from PITC or VCT in seven urban‐integrated PHCs. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to compare the two cohorts across demographic and clinical characteristics at enrolment.

Results

Forty‐five per cent of clients diagnosed via PITC had CD4<200, and more than 70% (i.e. two thirds) had CD4<350 at enrolment, with significantly lower CD4 counts than that of VCT clients (p<0.001). PITC clients were more likely to be male (p=0.0005) and less likely to have secondary or tertiary education (p<0.0001). Among those who were initiated on antiretroviral therapy (ART), PITC clients had lower odds of initiating treatment within four weeks of enrolment into HIV care (adjusted odds ratio, or AOR: 0.86; 95% confidence interval, or CI: 0.75–0.99; p=0.035) and significantly lower odds of retention in care at six months (AOR: 0.84; CI: 0.77–0.99; p=0.004).

Conclusions

In Lusaka, Zambia, large numbers of individuals with late‐stage HIV are being incidentally diagnosed in outpatient settings. Our findings suggest that PITC in this setting does not facilitate more timely diagnosis and referral to care but rather act as a “safety net” for individuals who are unwilling or unable to seek testing independently. Further work is needed to document the way provision of clinic‐based services can be strengthened and linked to community‐based interventions and to address socio‐cultural norms and socio‐economic status that underpin healthcare‐seeking behaviour.
Co‐encapsulation of Biodegradable Nanoparticles with Silicon Quantum Dots and Quercetin for Monitored Delivery
Authors: Wang Qi , Bao Yongping , Ahire Jayshree , Chao Yimin
Published: September 2012

Polymer nanoparticles have emerged as a promising new strategy for the efficient delivery of drugs. They have several advantages when used as drug carriers, such as high stability, high capacity, improvement of drug bioavailability, as well as allowing for sustained drug release. Quercetin has therapeutic potential as an anticancer drug, but has poor solubility and low bioavailability. In this study it is shown that co‐encapsulation of quercetin and fluorescent Silicon quantum dots (SiQDs) in poly (ethylene glycol)‐block‐polylactide (PEG–PLA) nanoparticles can be used for simultaneous in vitro imaging and to improve the biocompatibility of quercetin. Fluorescent imaging with SiQDs can provide a new concept to monitor the delivery of anti‐cancer drugs. The nanoparticles are synthesized based on the double emulsion method and are extensively characterized and assayed for cytotoxicity in vitro. HepG2 cells are incubated with quercetin and SiQDs dual‐loaded PEG–PLA nanoparticles, resulting in a red fluorescent staining which can be detected with a confocal microscope. PEG–PLA nanoparticle encapsulated quercetin suppresses human hepatoma HepG2 cell proliferation more effectively than the free‐standing form. In addition, nanoparticle‐encapsulated quercetin significantly inhibits hydrogen peroxide‐induced DNA damage in HepG2 cells. These data show that nanocapsulated quercetin possesses the potential bioactivity to reduce the drug dosage frequency, as well as increase patient compliance. The combination of polymeric nanoparticles and semiconductor quantum dots can allow monitoring of delivery, improve aqueous solubility, and enhance biocompatibility. Such nanoparticulated systems could shape the future of drug delivery.
Formation of Polydiacetylene/Silica Nanocomposite as a Colorimetric Indicator: Effect of Time and Temperature
Authors: Nopwinyuwong A. , Boonsupthip W. , Pechyen C. , Suppakul P.
Published: September 2012

This work presents a method to prepare a new class of polydiacetylene (PDA)/SiO2 nanocomposites for colorimetric indicator applications. The silica concentration is 5 wt% of the diacetylene monomer, 10,12‐pentacosadiynoic acid (PCDA). Under ultraviolet light irradiation, PCDA vesicle/silica nanocomposites were formed and an intense blue solution was obtained. The silica nanoparticles can improve chromic properties of molecules. The color transition of PDA/silica nanocomposites can change from blue (λmax∼ 640 nm) to red (λmax∼ 540 nm), which is irreversible when stored at different temperatures and time. This study investigated characterization of the aqueous suspension compared with pure PDA vesicles in the absorption spectra. Moreover, the color response was calculated. This is an efficient method for preparation of the colorimetric sensor of nanocomposite materials after UV irradiation. The PDA/5 wt% silica nanocomposites aqueous matrix would potentially be developed as a new colorimetric polymeric indicator to study the effect of temperature and time. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 32: E724–E731, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21315
Hybrid Nanocomposite Preparation in a Batch Mixer and a Twin‐Screw Extruder
Authors: Oliveira M. , Nogueira R. , Machado A. V.
Published: September 2012

Hybrid polymer nanocomposites (HPN) with same composition were prepared in an internal mixer and in an extruder at the same temperature. Polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride and aluminum isopropoxide were used as organic and inorganic components, respectively. Moreover, the chemical and morphological evolution along the extruder was followed. The HPNs were characterized by several techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared, rheology, X‐ray diffraction, gel content, scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry, and transmission electronic microscopy. Chemical and morphological characterization showed that the sol–gel reaction in the extruder was more extensive; the produced nanocomposite exhibited a higher cross‐linking level with smaller and more homogeneous nanoparticles. Along the extruder, the nanoparticles', size decreased as the reaction took place. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 32: E732–E740, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21316
A new fragment contribution‐corresponding states method for physicochemical properties prediction of ionic liquids
Authors: Huang Ying , Dong Haifeng , Zhang Xiangping , Li Chunshan , Zhang Suojiang
Published: September 2012

A new fragment contribution‐corresponding states (FC—CS) method based on the group contribution method and the corresponding states principle is developed to predict critical properties of ionic liquids (ILs). There are 46 fragments specially classified for ILs considering the ionic features of ILs, and the corresponding fragment increments are determined using the experimental density data. The accuracy of the developed method is verified indirectly via predicting density and surface tension of ILs. The results show that the FC—CS method is reasonable with an average absolute relative deviation less than 4%. With the calculated critical properties, corresponding states heat capacity (CSHC) and corresponding states thermal conductivity (CSTC) correlations are proposed to predict heat capacity and thermal conductivity of ILs, respectively. The predicted results agreed well with the experimental data. The proposed FC—CS method and the two corresponding states correlations are important for design, simulation, and analysis of new ionic liquid processes. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 1348–1359, 2013
Effects of bubble coalescence dynamics on heat flux distributions under bubbles
Authors: Jingliang Bi , Xipeng Lin , Christopher David M.
Published: September 2012

Bubble coalescence events and single bubble nucleation, growth, and departure were observed with a charge‐coupled device (CCD) camera synchronized with a high‐speed data acquisition system measuring the heat fluxes at different positions underneath the bubble. Four different kinds of coalescence events took place with characteristic heat flux signatures for each type of event. The heat transfer measurements under four typical heaters representing different positions under the bubble showed very different heat flux characteristics during each ebullition cycle. The results show that transient conduction due to the movement of the contact line during bubble interactions, sliding, stretching, and oscillating is the main mechanism resulting in the high heat transfer rates during coalescence. Fast evaporation of the liquid layer trapped between the two bubbles and higher heat fluxes near the contact line as the microlayer evaporated also generate high heat flux spikes but have less influence due to their short duration and small influence area. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 1735–1745, 2013
Transforming rapeseed oil into fatty acid ethyl ester (FAEE) via the noncatalytic transesterification reaction
Authors: Kwon Eilhann E. , Yi Haakrho , Jeon Young Jae
Published: September 2012

A simple methodology for producing biodiesel is presented. The noncatalytic transesterification was carried out via the thermochemical process because the main driving force of biodiesel conversion was temperature rather than pressure. Noncatalytic transformation of rapeseed oil into fatty acid ethyl ester (FAEE) was performed in a continuous flow system under ambient pressure in the presence of activated alumina, charcoal, and carbon dioxide (CO2). The biodiesel conversion methodology introduced in this work enables the esterification of fatty acids (FFAs), and transesterification of triglycerides to be combined into a single process and leads to a 97.5 (±0.5)% conversion efficiency of biodiesel within 1 min at 420–500°C. The new process has high potential to achieve a breakthrough in minimizing the cost of biodiesel production owing to its simplicity and technical advantages. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 1468–1471, 2013
Fludarabine, cytarabine, and attenuated‐dose idarubicin (m‐FLAI) combination therapy for elderly acute myeloid leukemia patients
Authors: Kim Inho , Koh Youngil , Yoon Sung‐Soo , Park Seonyang , Kim Byoung Kook , Kim Dae‐Young , Lee Jung‐Hee , Lee Kyoo‐Hyung , Cheong June‐Won , Lee Hong‐Kee , Kim Sung‐Hyun , Kim Hyuk , Joo Young Don , Lee Sang‐Min , Won Jong‐Ho , Park Sung‐Kyu , Hong Dae‐Sik , Kim Se‐Hyung , Sohn Sang Kyun , Kim Chul‐Soo , Park Eunkyung , Kim Min Kyoung , Park Moo Rim , Lee Je‐Hwan , Min Yoo Hong ,   for the Korean Society of Hematology AML/MDS working party
Published: September 2012

We performed a phase II trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the modified fludarabine, cytarabine, and attenuated‐dose idarubicin (m‐FLAI) regimen in elderly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Elderly (≥60 years) AML patients who had not previously received chemotherapy were enrolled in the study. Patients received two consecutive cycles of m‐FLAI chemotherapy as an induction. The m‐FLAI regimen comprised fludarabine (25 mg/m2, days 1–4), cytarabine (1,000 mg/m2, days 1–4), and attenuated‐dose idarubicin (5 mg/m2, days 1–3). The primary end point was complete remission (CR) rate. Secondary end points were overall survival (OS), event‐free survival (EFS), and treatment‐related mortality (TRM). There were 108 patients (median age 68.4 years, M:F = 64:44) enrolled in the study. CR was achieved in 56.5% of patients, and the TRM rate was 21.3%. Median OS and median EFS were 10.2 and 6.6 months, respectively. The mortality at 30 and 60 days was 15 and 21%, respectively. Performance status and comorbidity did not have prognostic value in this patient cohort. Bone marrow expression of CD117 was associated with increased EFS and OS. m‐FLAI is an effective induction regimen for previously untreated AML in elderly patients. In addition, bone‐marrow CD117 expression is an independent favorable prognostic factor in elderly AML patients. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01247493). Am. J. Hematol. 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of poly[3‐(methacryloylamino) propyl trimethylammonium chloride‐co‐methacrylic acid] copolymer hydrogels for controlled indomethacin delivery
Authors: Mishra R. K. , Ramasamy K. , Ban N. N. , Majeed A. B. A.
Published: September 2012

Stimulus responsive hydrogels are being considered as one of the most exciting biomaterials of current generation. A novel hydrogel based on poly 3‐[(methacryoylamino) propyl trimethylammonium chloride‐co‐methacrylic acid] (PMAPTACMAAc) copolymer was synthesized by free radical aqueous copolymerization. The water uptake of the hydrogels was investigated as a function of temperature and pH. The in vitro release properties of the PMAPTACMAAc hydrogels were analyzed under simulated body fluid (pH 7.4) by loading indomethacin (IND) as a model drug. The XRD study of the hydrogel revealed the amorphous nature of the copolymer and provided evidence that crystalline IND was entrapped in the hydrogel matrix. The DSC study showed the presence of single glass transition temperature in the thermogram which indicated the formation of random copolymers. The prepared hydrogels showed typical polyampholyte behavior and swelling was affected by the monomer feed ratios in the hydrogels. The morphological study on the hydrogels showed the three dimensional (3D) porous nature of the PMAPTACMAAc‐5 gel with pore size ranging from 10 to 40 μm. The kinetics of the cumulative IND release shows that the gel follows a non‐Fickian release mechanism. In vitro cytotoxicity of the hydrogel (PMAPTACMAAc‐5 gel) on RAW 264.7 murine macrophages showed that the hydrogel was biocompatible and not toxic as the viability was maintained. The hydrogel with a 90 : 10 feed ratio of MAAc and MAPTAC was better than the other developed formulations. The results suggest that the hydrogels could be employed as a sustained release formulation for targeted delivery of IND, for example to the colon. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Co‐polymerization analysis of thermosetting resins using 1H‐15N‐13C triple resonance NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Philbrook Amy , Earnshaw Scott , Easton Christopher J. , Keniry Max A. , Latter Melissa J.
Published: September 2012

1H‐15N‐13C correlation NMR spectroscopy techniques developed to identify and characterize co‐polymer fragments in melamine‐urea‐formaldehyde (MUF) and phenol‐urea‐formaldehyde (PUF) model systems have been applied to industrially prepared MUF, PUF, and phenol‐melamine‐formaldehyde (PMF) resins. The NMR data confirm that co‐polymers form in a commercially prepared MUF resin manufactured by Momentive Specialty Chemicals Pty. Ltd. Spectra from PUF model reactions were compared with those from a PUF resin and it was determined that PUF co‐polymers did not form in the resin prepared using typical temperature and pH. Finally, NMR spectroscopy was used to identify and characterize PMF co‐polymer bonds in a phenol‐melamine‐urea‐formaldehyde (PMUF) resin prepared using a procedure from Momentive Specialty Chemicals Pty. Ltd. With these NMR techniques in hand, it is now possible to relate co‐polymer structures to properties of commercial thermosets. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Influence of β nucleation agent on the dispersion of nano‐CaCO3 in isotactic polypropylene matrix
Authors: Zhang Yu , Liu Hong , Zhang Lei , Zhang Xiongwei , Zhang Jie
Published: September 2012

To study the interaction between β‐nucleation agent and nano‐CaCO3 in iPP matrix, the dynamic rheology properties, crystallization and melting behaviors, impact fracture surface of β‐nucleation agent (β‐NA) nucleated and nano‐CaCO3 filled iPP were investigated in details in this study. Under suitable conditions, the β‐NA has a “promoting dispersion effect” on the dispersion of nano‐CaCO3 in PP matrix. However, 0.2 wt % β‐NA nucleated sample has a worse “promoting dispersion effect” than 0.05 wt % β‐NA nucleated sample at relatively high nano‐CaCO3 content (7.5 wt %). The reason is that 0.2 wt % β‐NA aggregates on the surface of nano‐CaCO3 agglomerations. The α crystals induced from β‐crystals grow more regular and perfect than conventional α crystals. For the relative fraction of β crystals (Kβ), the nano‐CaCO3 content has little influence on 0.05 wt % β‐NA nucleated samples, but obvious effect on 0.2 wt % β‐NA nucleated samples. Based on the investigated results, a mechanism model about the interaction between β‐nucleation agent and nano‐CaCO3 in iPP matrix is proposed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and properties of novel hyperbranched polyimides end‐capped with metallophthalocyanines
Authors: Zhao Ling , Yao Hongyan , Liu Yu , Zhang Yunhe , Jiang Zhenhua
Published: September 2012

A fluorinated hyperbranched polyimide (HBPI) is synthesized by using a triamine monomer, 1,3,5‐tris(2‐trifluoromethyl‐4‐aminophenoxy)benzene (TFAPOB) (B3), as a “core” molecule, 4,4′‐oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA) as a A2 monomer, and 4‐aminophthalonitrile as an end‐capping reagent. After that, a series of novel fluorinated hyperbranched polyimides end‐capped with metallophthalocyanines were prepared by the reactions of dicyanophenyl end‐capped hyperbranched polyimide with excessive amounts of 1,2‐dicyanobenzene and the corresponding metal salt in quinoline. The resulting polyimides containing metallophthalocyanine unites shows optical absorption in the visible region. The absorption bands of the polymers in chloroform solution are in the range of 665–701 nm. These polyimides show glass transition temperatures between 216 and 225°C, and the 5 wt % weight loss temperature of the polymers varied from 440 to 543°C under nitrogen. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Sex influences immune responses to viruses, and efficacy of prophylaxis and treatments for viral diseases
Authors: Klein Sabra L.
Published: September 2012

The intensity and prevalence of viral infections are typically higher in males, whereas disease outcome can be worse for females. Females mount higher innate and adaptive immune responses than males, which can result in faster clearance of viruses, but also contributes to increased development of immunopathology. In response to viral vaccines, females mount higher antibody responses and experience more adverse reactions than males. The efficacy of antiviral drugs at reducing viral load differs between the sexes, and the adverse reactions to antiviral drugs are typically greater in females than males. Several variables should be considered when evaluating male/female differences in responses to viral infection and treatment: these include hormones, genes, and gender‐specific factors related to access to, and compliance with, treatment. Knowledge that the sexes differ in their responses to viruses and to treatments for viral diseases should influence the recommended course of action differently for males and females.

Editor's suggested further reading in BioEssays X‐chromosome‐located microRNAs in immunity: Might they explain male/female differences Abstract
Mixture of three amino acids as stabilizers replacing albumin in lyophilization of new third generation recombinant factor VIII GreenGene F
Authors: Paik Sang Hoon , Kim Yong Jae , Han Sang Kyul , Kim Jean Man , Huh Jae Wook , Park Young In
Published: September 2012

A formulation with stabilizers replacing albumin was developed for lyophilization of recombinant factor VIII (FVIII), GreenGene F (WHO INN: beroctocog alfa), to achieve stability and eliminate safety issues of blood‐derived albumin. L‐Arginine (hydrophilic amino acid, positively charged side chain), L‐glutamic acid (hydrophilic amino acid, negatively charged side chain), and L‐isoleucine (hydrophobic amino acid, nonpolar) were selected as stabilizers, and the mixture of the three amino acids were optimized. The mixture had results comparative with albumin and other commonly used stabilizers showing good preservation of recombinant FVIII during lyophilization, robust stability with consistently high recovery of FVIIII, very low aggregate formation, and good storage stability without alterations in protein characteristics. In vivo test results showed that the efficacy was maintained and had no signs of toxicity. The study demonstrated that the three amino acid mixture acts as a good stabilizer for lyophilization of recombinant FVIII and as a safe excipient. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Identification of multiple subclones in peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified with genomic aberrations
Authors: Yoshida Noriaki , Umino Akira , Liu Fang , Arita Kotaro , Karube Kennosuke , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Ohshima Koichi , Seto Masao
Published: September 2012

Peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL, NOS) with genomic aberrations has been shown to resemble lymphoma‐type adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) in terms of its genomic aberration patterns, histopathology, and prognosis. We have shown recently that a majority of patients with acute‐type ATLL have multiple subclones that were likely produced in lymph nodes. In this study, we analyzed whether PTCL, NOS with genomic aberrations also has multiple subclones as found in ATLL by means of high‐resolution oligo‐array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). Thirteen cases of PTCL, NOS were available for 44K high‐resolution array CGH analysis. The results showed that 11 (84.6%) of the 13 cases had a log2 ratio imbalance, suggesting that multiple subclones exist in PTCL, NOS with genomic aberrations. In order to analyze the association between multiple subclones and prognosis, we used previous bacterial‐artificial chromosome (BAC) array analyses for 29 cases and found that the existence of multiple subclones was associated with a poor prognosis (P = 0.0279).
Effectiveness of aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen in reducing subsequent breast cancer
Authors: Haque Reina , Ahmed Syed A. , Fisher Alice , Avila Chantal C. , Shi Jiaxiao , Guo Amy , Craig Cheetham T. , Schottinger Joanne E.
Published: September 2012

Tamoxifen (TAM) has been prescribed for decades and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) have been used since the early 2000s in preventing subsequent breast cancer. However, outside of clinical trials, the effectiveness of AIs is not established. We examined the long‐term risk of subsequent breast cancer among survivors treated with TAM and AIs in a large health plan. The study included 22,850 survivors, diagnosed with initial breast cancer (stages 0–IV) from 1996 to 2006, and followed 13 years maximum. We compared the risk of subsequent breast cancer in those who used TAM and/or AIs versus nonusers (the reference group). Hazard ratios (HR) adjusted for patient, tumor, treatment, and health‐care characteristics were estimated using Cox models with time‐dependent drug use status. Women who used TAM/AIs had a large reduction in risk of subsequent breast cancer compared with nonusers. While confidence intervals (CI) for all hormone treatment groups overlapped, women with high adherence (medication possession ratio ≥80%) who used AIs exclusively and had positive ER or PR receptor status had the greatest risk reduction (HR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.28–0.41), followed by those who switched from TAM to AIs (HR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.30–0.49), and those who used TAM exclusively (HR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.36–0.47). Women with high adherence had the greatest risk reduction in subsequent breast cancer, but the results were not substantially different from women who took the drugs less regularly. Compared with nonusers, the reduction in subsequent breast cancer risk ranged from 58% to 66% across the hormone treatment groups and degree of adherence.
Evaluation context's role in driving positive word‐of‐mouth intentions
Authors: Wien Anders Hauge , Olsen Svein Ottar
Published: September 2012

Relevant literature recognizes that transaction‐specific and cumulative evaluations are different, but few empirical studies test how these differences might affect the link between product evaluations and word of mouth (WOM). This study addresses this issue by assessing the simultaneous effects of perceived quality and satisfaction on the resulting positive WOM intentions for both types of evaluations. Results reveal that different factors drive positive WOM intentions depending on the context of the study. When the consumers' evaluations are related to a specific transaction, perceived quality is the dominating predictor of positive WOM intentions. When the evaluations are cumulative, satisfaction is the dominating predictor of positive WOM intentions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selling forensic psychiatry: Recruiting for the future, establishing services
Authors: Goethals Kris , Gunn John , Calcedo‐Barba Alfredo
Published: September 2012

Background and Aim

The Ghent Group – a group of European forensic psychiatrists – has discussed ways of informing fellow professionals and the wider public about their difficult and frequently misunderstood discipline, agreeing that the specialty may have to be ‘sold’ to those who pay for it and use it. Our aim was to consider the areas where this commonly occurs and the strengths and pitfalls of such promotion.

Discussion

Forensic psychiatrists need to be effective, accurate communicators. For court work, they need special training. High standards of work are the best selling technique. Outside court, the greatest challenge for forensic psychiatry is to reduce its stigma – it can easily be construed, wrongly, as excusing serious anti‐social behaviour. Special attention should be given to writing for a wider audience, not just the inner circle of practitioners. Electronic social media should also be deployed for this task. Those who provide funds for academic work should be specifically but differently targeted. They need to be persuaded of the scientific merit of the subject.

Ethics

Temptation to claim more for the discipline than can be justified have to be resisted. An English case that led to a miscarriage of justice illustrates this. The limitations of science here have to be understood. Philosophical questions relating to responsibility and culpability cannot be resolved by physical science alone. Misuse neuroimaging in court, for example, can lead to miscarriages of justice.

Conclusion

Selling forensic psychiatry to public and professionals is difficult but essential to counter anti‐forensic psychiatry movements that have emerged. The discipline needs to persuade others of its unique skills and embrace good science, compassion, public duty and ethical practice. It needs to treat with politicians and funders as well as the medical, psychological and legal professions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Teaching forensic psychiatry in Europe
Authors: Nedopil Norbert , Gunn John , Thomson Lindsay
Published: September 2012

Background

Forensic psychiatry was long regarded as sufficiently defined by the laws of a country to be restricted by national boundaries in all but a few areas. European Union (EU) employment rights and travel facilities have changed that within the EU.

Aims

The goal of this research is to explore the role and development of a network of teachers and trainees in forensic psychiatry.

Information and discussion

European Union countries differ widely in the extent to which they recognise forensic psychiatry as a specialty and thus also in the amount of training clinicians receive before they present themselves as expert witnesses in court, or develop or run services, or manage and treat individual offender patients. Nevertheless, a summer seminar for practicing clinicians, who also present evidence to court and for bodies considering discharge of potentially dangerous patients, has proved a useful forum for joint ‘European learning’. Participants have left with a sense of improved understanding of their own law and practices as well as new perspectives on what works for offenders with mental disorder. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variations in Phosphorus Speciation in Response to Simulated Riparian Zone Enhancement with Red Mud to Treat Reclaimed Water
Authors: Qin Jing , Liu Ping , Wu Gang
Published: September 2012

Variations in phosphorus speciation in two sets of simulated riparian zones with and without Perennial ryegrass were compared. Each set consisted of four units, each measuring 700 mm × 200 mm × 200 mm, which were enhanced with 0, 2.5, 5, and 7.5% red mud (RM) by weight. The levels of total phosphorus (TP), total dissolved phosphorus (TDP), soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) in the effluent were analyzed, and phosphorus fractionation in the media were also determined after the systems had been operational for 3 months. The results showed that the unit received 2.5% RM had the highest rate of phosphorus removal, including TP, TDP, SRP, particulate phosphorus (PP), and dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) were present at the average concentrations of 0.17, 0.10, 0.07, 0.08, and 0.03 mg/L in the effluent. Sequential phosphorus fractionation showed that calcium‐bound phosphorus (Ca–P) was the major component, indicating that the addition of RM induced aluminum/iron‐bound phosphorus (Al/Fe–P), which was intensely bioactive, to form intractable Ca–P, which further inhibited the release of phosphorus from the media. However, the presence of P. ryegrass had little effect on the removal of phosphorus. Therefore, RM, when used directly in riparian zones at a suitable concentration, is a novel and low cost additive material that can be used to remove phosphorus from reclaimed water.
Phosphoinositides and cytokinesis: The “PIP” of the iceberg
Authors: Echard Arnaud
Published: September 2012

Phosphoinositides [Phosphatidylinositol (PtdIns), phosphatidylinositol 3‐monophosphate (PtdIns3P), phosphatidylinositol 4‐monophosphate (PtdIns4P), phosphatidylinositol 5‐monophosphate (PtdIns5P), phosphatidylinositol 3,4‐bisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4)P2), phosphatidylinositol 3,5‐bisphosphate (PtdIns(3,5)P2), phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2), and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5‐trisphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3)] are lowly abundant acidic lipids found at the cytosolic leaflet of the plasma membrane and intracellular membranes. Initially discovered as precursors of second messengers in signal transduction, phosphoinositides are now known to directly or indirectly control key cellular functions, such as cell polarity, cell migration, cell survival, cytoskeletal dynamics, and vesicular traffic. Phosphoinositides actually play a central role at the interface between membranes and cytoskeletons and contribute to the identity of the cellular compartments by recruiting specific proteins. Increasing evidence indicates that several phosphoinositides, particularly PtdIns(4,5)P2, are essential for cytokinesis, notably after furrow ingression. The present knowledge about the specific phosphoinositides and phosphoinositide modifying‐enzymes involved in cytokinesis will be first presented. The review of the current data will then show that furrow stability and cytokinesis abscission require that both phosphoinositide production and hydrolysis are regulated in space and time. Finally, I will further discuss recent mechanistic insights on how phosphoinositides regulate membrane trafficking and cytoskeletal remodeling for successful furrow ingression and intercellular bridge abscission. This will highlight unanticipated connections between cytokinesis and enzymes implicated in human diseases, such as the Lowe syndrome. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc
The role of nonlinear gradients in parallel imaging: A k‐space based analysis
Authors: Galiana Gigi , Stockmann Jason P. , Tam Leo , Peters Dana , Tagare Hemant , Constable R. Todd
Published: September 2012

Sequences that encode the spatial information of an object using nonlinear gradient fields are a new frontier in MRI, with potential to provide lower peripheral nerve stimulation, windowed fields of view, tailored spatially‐varying resolution, curved slices that mirror physiological geometry, and, most importantly, very fast parallel imaging with multichannel coils. The acceleration for multichannel images is generally explained by the fact that curvilinear gradient isocontours better complement the azimuthal spatial encoding provided by typical receiver arrays. However, the details of this complementarity have been more difficult to specify. We present a simple and intuitive framework for describing the mechanics of image formation with nonlinear gradients, and we use this framework to review some the main classes of nonlinear encoding schemes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson Part A 40A: 253–267, 2012.