bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the role of government efforts in controlling extremism in a society
Authors: Goyal Ashish , Shukla J.B. , Misra A.K. , Shukla Ajai
Published: December 2014

People having extreme idealogies affect the process in a region using fear of terror acts, money power, and the word of mouth communication network to change individuals to their way of thinking. This forces government to divert its limited financial resources for controlling extremism and thus affecting development. In this paper, therefore, a nonlinear mathematical model is proposed to study the dynamics of extremism governed by four dependent variables, namely, number of people in the general population having no extreme ideology, number of extreme ideologists, number of isolated ideologists (prisoners), and the cumulative density of government efforts and their interactions. The model is analyzed using the stability theory of differential equations and computer simulation. The analysis shows that if appropriate level of government efforts is applied on extremists, the spread of their ideology can be controlled in the general population. A numerical study of the model is also carried out to investigate the effects of certain parameters on the spread of extremism confirming the analytical results.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of health promotion programmes in severe mental illness: theory and practice
Authors: van Hasselt Fenneke M. , Krabbe Paul F. M. , Postma Maarten J. , Loonen Anton J. M.
Published: December 2014

Health promotion programmes for patients with severe mental illness (HPP) are not uniformly evaluated. We discuss the evaluation of HPP in theory and practice, as a prerequisite for future uniform evaluation.

We explored the expected outcome and mechanism of HPP in the current literature. Based on this theoretical exploration we selected measures assessing the expected outcome and mechanism in current practice. The individual properties of these measures were described.

Based on our theoretical exploration the outcome of HPP can be expressed in several aspects of health. Health can be improved through several mechanisms. In the current evaluation of HPP only some of the expected outcomes were evaluated. The measures used for evaluation were not all representative for the constructs they should assess.

Important aspects of HPP are currently not evaluated, based on a comparison between our theoretical exploration of expected outcome and mechanism and current practice. Additionally, not all measures in use are suitable for evaluation of HPP. Therefore, development and identification of suitable measures is necessary. Our framework offers valuable directions for the development of such measures and the future evaluation of HPP. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating the micro mechanics of cemented sand using DEM
Authors: de Bono John , McDowell Glenn , Wanatowski Dariusz
Published: December 2014

The discrete element method has been used to investigate the micro mechanics of cemented sand. High‐pressure drained triaxial tests are modelled in 3D using a flexible membrane that allows the correct deformation to develop. Simulations with up to 12 MPa confining pressure are presented, which are compared with laboratory experiments on a sand with a range of cement contents. Cementation is modelled using ‘parallel bonds’, and various parameters and strength distributions are investigated. Varying levels of cementation are successfully modelled, with the correct qualitative behaviour observed and the separate effects of cementation and confining pressures demonstrated. The triaxial behaviour is found to be highly influenced by the distribution of bond strengths. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of 31P saturation and inversion magnetization transfer in human liver and skeletal muscle using a clinical MR system and surface coils
Authors: Buehler Tania , Kreis Roland , Boesch Chris
Published: December 2014

31P MRS magnetization transfer (31P‐MT) experiments allow the estimation of exchange rates of biochemical reactions, such as the creatine kinase equilibrium and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis. Although various 31P‐MT methods have been successfully used on isolated organs or animals, their application on humans in clinical scanners poses specific challenges. This study compared two major 31P‐MT methods on a clinical MR system using heteronuclear surface coils. Although saturation transfer (ST) is the most commonly used 31P‐MT method, sequences such as inversion transfer (IT) with short pulses might be better suited for the specific hardware and software limitations of a clinical scanner. In addition, small NMR‐undetectable metabolite pools can transfer MT to NMR‐visible pools during long saturation pulses, which is prevented with short pulses. 31P‐MT sequences were adapted for limited pulse length, for heteronuclear transmit–receive surface coils with inhomogeneous B1, for the need for volume selection and for the inherently low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) on a clinical 3‐T MR system. The ST and IT sequences were applied to skeletal muscle and liver in 10 healthy volunteers. Monte‐Carlo simulations were used to evaluate the behavior of the IT measurements with increasing imperfections. In skeletal muscle of the thigh, ATP synthesis resulted in forward reaction constants (k) of 0.074 ±0.022 s–1 (ST) and 0.137 ±0.042 s–1 (IT), whereas the creatine kinase reaction yielded 0.459 ±0.089 s–1 (IT). In the liver, ATP synthesis resulted in k = 0.267 ±0.106 s–1 (ST), whereas the IT experiment yielded no consistent results. ST results were close to literature values; however, the IT results were either much larger than the corresponding ST values and/or were widely scattered. To summarize, ST and IT experiments can both be implemented on a clinical body scanner with heteronuclear transmit–receive surface coils; however, ST results are much more robust against experimental imperfections than the current implementation of IT. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UV exposure modulates hemidesmosome plasticity, contributing to long‐term pigmentation in human skin
Authors: Coelho Sergio G , Valencia Julio C , Yin Lanlan , Smuda Christoph , Mahns Andre , Kolbe Ludger , Miller Sharon A , Beer Janusz Z , Zhang Guofeng , Tuma Pamela L , Hearing Vincent J
Published: December 2014

Human skin colour, ie pigmentation, differs widely among individuals, as do their responses to various types of ultraviolet radiation (UV) and their risks of skin cancer. In some individuals, UV‐induced pigmentation persists for months to years in a phenomenon termed long‐lasting pigmentation (LLP). It is unclear whether LLP is an indicator of potential risk for skin cancer. LLP seems to have similar features to other forms of hyperpigmentation, eg solar lentigines or age spots, which are clinical markers of photodamage and risk factors for precancerous lesions. To investigate what UV‐induced molecular changes may persist in individuals with LLP, clinical specimens from non‐sunburn‐inducing repeated UV exposures (UVA, UVB or UVA + UVB) at 4 months post‐exposure (short‐term LLP) were evaluated by microarray analysis and dataset mining. Validated targets were further evaluated in clinical specimens from six healthy individuals (three LLP+ and three LLP−) followed for more than 9 months (long‐term LLP) who initially received a single sunburn‐inducing UVA + UVB exposure. The results support a UV‐induced hyperpigmentation model in which basal keratinocytes have an impaired ability to remove melanin that leads to a compensatory mechanism by neighbouring keratinocytes with increased proliferative capacity to maintain skin homeostasis. The attenuated expression of SOX7 and other hemidesmosomal components (integrin α6β4 and plectin) leads to increased melanosome uptake by keratinocytes and points to a spatial regulation within the epidermis. The reduced density of hemidesmosomes provides supporting evidence for plasticity at the epidermal–dermal junction. Altered hemidesmosome plasticity, and the sustained nature of LLP, may be mediated by the role of SOX7 in basal keratinocytes. The long‐term sustained subtle changes detected are modest, but sufficient to create dramatic visual differences in skin colour. These results suggest that the hyperpigmentation phenomenon leading to increased interdigitation develops in order to maintain normal skin homeostasis in individuals with LLP. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Women's uptake of non‐invasive DNA testing following a high‐risk screening test for trisomy 21 within a publicly funded healthcare system: findings from a retrospective review
Authors: Chan Yiu Man , Leung Wing Cheong , Chan Wan Pang , Leung Tak Yeung , Cheng Yvonne Kwun Yue , Sahota Daljit Singh
Published: December 2014

Objective

The objective of the study was to evaluate the uptake of non‐invasive cell‐free fetal DNA screening test (NIDT) after a high‐risk screening result for trisomy 21

Methods

Association between maternal and pregnancy characteristics on women's test choice was assessed after adjusting for confounding factors in Hong Kong Chinese women who had a high‐risk (term risk ≥1:250) first‐trimester or second‐trimester screening test at three public hospitals. Main outcome measures were rate of declining further testing and obstetric and maternal factors impacting on patient's selection of testing options.

Results

Compared with the pre‐NIDT period, the availability of NIDT resulted in a 45% (P < 0.001) reduction in the rate of refusal for further testing and a decrease from 92.2% to 66.7% in the use of invasive diagnostic test after a positive screening test. Nulliparous women with a spontaneous [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.63–2.92] or assisted reproduction pregnancy (aOR = 3.95, 95% CI 1.6–9.32) were more likely to choose NIDT. Women with an adjusted risk of ‘>1:10’ (aOR = 7.36, 95% CI 4.22–12.8) and ‘1:10 to 1:50’ (aOR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.01–2.32) were more likely to opt for chorionic villi sampling or amniocentesis.

Conclusions

NIDT reduced the refusal rate. Uptake of NIDT was highest in pregnancies of nulliparous women. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hearing loss and type 2 diabetes: is there a link?
Authors: Morrison CL , Morar P , Morrison G , Purewal TS , Weston PJ
Published: December 2014

Recent meta‐analysis has confirmed an association between hearing loss and diabetes. The cause remains uncertain and open to academic debate.

This five‐year retrospective study examined the outcomes of patients referred for audiological investigations from a large primary care diabetes clinic. Audiological assessment included pure‐tone audiometry, and the presence of neuropathy was identified by foot examination and risk stratification.

Referral rates of patients with diabetes were nearly twice those seen in the non‐diabetic population (7.5% [107/1428] vs 4% [499/12422]). Hearing loss was identified in 77 patients. The majority (84.1%) had high‐frequency sensorineural hearing loss. Loss of protective sensation on the 10 g monofilament test (OR 3.2, CI 1.6–6.5) and vibration sense (OR 2.6, CI 1.2–5.6) was significantly higher in the hearing loss group when compared with a group with type 2 diabetes and normal hearing (n = 219). The hearing loss group had almost twice the rate of at‐risk feet (37.7% vs 20.1%); (OR 2.4, CI 1.4–4.2). Pre‐existing cardiovascular disease was the only pre‐morbid condition that was associated with hearing loss (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1–3.2). There were no differences in HbA1c and lipids.

This is the first study from primary care to show that hearing loss is prevalent and has a strong association with peripheral neuropathy.

There are no effective strategies yet identified that can prevent or reverse diabetes‐related hearing loss. Clinicians should recognise the association between diabetes and hearing loss, and engage in preventative health education and hearing conservation strategies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overview of complementary and alternative medicine and diabetes
Authors: Dunning Trisha
Published: December 2014

People with diabetes frequently use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and other non‐medicine CAM therapies, often combine various CAMs, and combine CAMs with conventional care. They use CAM for a range of reasons, not necessarily to manage blood glucose. The evidence base for CAM is improving, but there is still a lack of quality evidence for many CAMs, and the combination of CAMs and conventional care. CAMs have both risks and benefits: some CAMs, like some conventional treatments, are higher risk than others.

Conventional practitioners should ask about CAM use in a non‐judgemental way, document it and monitor the outcomes according to the individual's reason for using it. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative luminescence mapping of Cu(In, Ga)Se2 thin‐film solar cells
Authors: Delamarre Amaury , Paire Myriam , Guillemoles Jean‐François , Lombez Laurent
Published: December 2014

We investigate photoluminescence and electroluminescence (PL and EL) emission images from Cu(In,Ga)Se2‐based solar cells by means of a Hyperspectral Imager. Using the generalized Planck's law, maps of the effective quasi‐Fermi level splitting Δμeff in absolute values are obtained. A good agreement is found between the spatially averaged splitting in PL and the global open‐circuit voltage. However, from a local carrier transport discussion, we conclude that the equality does not hold locally. The spatial variations are rather attributed to local depth variations of the quasi‐Fermi level splitting due to material properties spatial fluctuations. By comparing PL and EL emissions, we discuss qualitatively the local effective lifetimes and collection efficiencies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Redox proteomic investigation of tetracycline‐induced steatosis
Authors: Madian Ashraf G.
Published: December 2014

Pathological levels of oxidative stress (OS) have been implicated in a broad spectrum of diseases. Carbonylation is an irreversible PTM that is considered as a universal indicator of OS. The development of new enrichment techniques coupled with the introduction of highly sensitive mass spectrometers has allowed the identification of carbonylated proteins in biological systems. In this study, Deng et al. (Proteomics 2015, 15, 148–159) utilized one of these methods to isolate and identify carbonylated proteins that are involved in tetracycline‐induced steatosis. They identified 26 proteins that are targets of OS and most of them were located in the mitochondria. A key carbonylated protein that was identified is long chain specific acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase, which has a major role in the β‐oxidation of fatty acids. The researchers concluded that tetracycline‐induced steatosis is a two‐step process that involves lipid overload followed by OS.
Theoretical investigations on 4,4′,5,5′‐tetranitro‐2,2′‐1H,1′H‐2,2′‐biimidazole derivatives as potential nitrogen‐rich high energy materials
Authors: Ma Qing , Jiang Tao , Zhang Xiaoyu , Fan Guijuan , Wang Jun , Huang Jinglun
Published: December 2014

The ―NH2, ―NO2, ―NHNO2, ―C(NO2)3 and ―CF(NO2)2 substitution derivatives of 4,4′,5,5′‐tetranitro‐2,2′‐1H,1′H‐2,2′‐biimidazole were studied at B3LYP/aug‐cc‐pVDZ level of density functional theory. The crystal structures were obtained by molecular mechanics (MM) methods. Detonation properties were evaluated using Kamlet–Jacobs equations based on the calculated density and heat of formation. The thermal stability of the title compounds was investigated via the energy gaps (∆ELUMO − HOMO) predicted. Results show that molecules T5 (D = 10.85 km·s−1, P = 57.94 GPa) and T6 (D = 9.22 km·s−1, P = 39.21 GPa) with zero or positive oxygen balance are excellent candidates for high energy density oxidizers (HEDOs). All of them appear to be potential explosives compared with the famous ones, octahydro‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazocane (HMX, D = 8.96 km·s−1, P = 35.96 GPa) and hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL‐20, D = 9.38 km·s−1, P = 42.00 GPa). In addition, bond dissociation energy calculation indicates that T5 and T6 are also the most thermally stable ones among the title compounds. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A randomised controlled trial of a couples‐based sexuality intervention for men with localised prostate cancer and their female partners
Authors: Chambers Suzanne K. , Occhipinti Stefano , Schover Leslie , Nielsen Lisa , Zajdlewicz Leah , Clutton Samantha , Halford Kim , Gardiner Robert A. , Dunn Jeff
Published: December 2014

Objective

The diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer is followed by substantive sexual morbidity. The optimal approach for intervening remains unclear.

Methods/design

A three‐arm randomised control trial was undertaken with 189 heterosexual couples where the man had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and treated surgically. The efficacy of peer‐delivered telephone support versus nurse‐delivered telephone counselling versus usual care in improving both men's and women's sexual adjustment was investigated. Assessments were undertaken at baseline (pre‐test) with follow‐up at 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results

At 12 months, men in the peer (p = 0.016) and nurse intervention (p = 0.008) were more likely to use medical treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) than men in the usual care arm. Men in the nurse intervention more frequently used oral medication for ED than men in usual care (p = 0.002). No significant effects were found for sexual function, sexuality needs, sexual self‐confidence, masculine self‐esteem, marital satisfaction or intimacy.

Conclusion

Although peer and nurse couples‐based interventions can increase use of medical treatments for ED, this may not translate into better sexual or relationship outcomes. More research is needed into the optimal timing of interventions to improve sexual outcomes for men with prostate cancer and to identify the subpopulations that will benefit from them. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of Relaxivity, Suspension Stability, and Biodistribution of Dendronized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as a Function of the Organic Shell Design
Authors: Walter Aurélie , Parat Audrey , Garofalo Antonio , Laurent Sophie , Elst Luce Vander , Muller Robert N. , Wu Tao , Heuillard Emilie , Robinet Eric , Meyer Florent , Felder‐Flesch Delphine , Begin‐Colin Sylvie
Published: December 2014

Nanoparticles (NPs) with a mean diameter of 10 nm are functionalized with three dendrons: D1 a PEGylated PAMAM dendron of generation 0.5, D2 a hydrophilic oligoethyleneglycol‐derivatized dendron (D2) displaying a phosphonic acid at the focal point, and D2–2P the same dendron than D2 but with two phosphonic acid anchoring agents. Their grafting is confirmed by IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. All dendronized NPs are stable over a long period of time in suspensions in water and in different physiological media and display a mean hydrodynamic diameter smaller than 50 nm whatever the molecule architecture. NMRD profiles and relaxivity measurements highlight the influence of the molecule architecture on the water diffusion close to the magnetic core thus influencing the relaxation properties at low magnetic field. The high hydrophilic architecture of the dendron D2 by contrast to dendron D1 allows maintaining the colloidal stability in different conditions while ensuring a very good accessibility of water molecule close to the magnetic core. Coupling of a fluorescent dye on dendrons have allowed investigating the biodistribution of dendronized NPs, which are found to be quickly eliminated through urinary and hepatobiliary pathways within 4 h. Furthermore, no enhanced permeation and retention effect in tumors can be observed.
Use of the lung flute for sputum induction in children with cystic fibrosis: A pilot study
Authors: Doumit Michael , Jaffé Adam
Published: December 2014

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Lung Flute in obtaining a sputum sample from children with cystic fibrosis (CF) that were not productive of sputum with coughing alone. Children attending an outpatient CF clinic who were not able to provide a sample with coughing alone were eligible. Each child used the Lung Flute on two occasions at least one month apart. The primary outcome was expectoration of a sputum sample. Secondary outcomes were sputum microbiology, time taken for the procedure, and ease of use of the device as assessed by the patient using a visual analogue scale (VAS), with 0/10 representing very easy and 10/10 representing very hard. Twenty‐five children participated (15 males, mean age 12.7 range 6.5–17.9). Overall, a sputum sample was obtained on 26/50 (52%) uses of the device. In children that presented with a moist cough, a sample was obtained on 17/17 (100%) occasions, compared to 9/33 (27%) occasions when a child presented with a dry cough. A positive culture result for at least one known CF pathogen was found in 24/26 samples. Culture results from obtained samples resulted in management changes in 12 cases. Mean time taken to obtain a sample was 9.8 min (SD 2.2). Mean ease of use on the VAS was 1.5 (SD 1.6). Conclusion: The lung flute appears to be a clinically useful and easy device for sputum induction in children with CF. Further research comparing its effectiveness to other sputum induction methods is warranted. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:340–343. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hydroxychloroquine in children with interstitial (diffuse parenchymal) lung diseases
Authors: Braun Sarah , Ferner Marion , Kronfeld Kai , Griese Matthias
Published: December 2014

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is one of the drugs frequently used for the treatment of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in children (chILD). This use is off‐label and studies to analyze the effect and safety of HCQ in chILD are lacking. Therefore, a literature research on the usage of chloroquine (CQ) and HCQ in these conditions was done.

Eighty‐five case reports and small series in the period from 1984 to 2013 were identified in which children with different diagnoses of ILD were treated with CQ or HCQ, sometimes in combination with other medication including steroids. A favorable response to HCQ or CQ was reported in 35 cases, whereas in the other cases the effect was negative or not clear. The dose of HCQ used was between 5 and 10 mg/kg body weight/day (bw/d). No pharmacokinetic studies have been done.

The side effect profile in children seemed to be similar to that in adults. Most often gastrointestinal symptoms were reported. Three patients were found developing retinal changes during the treatment with CQ, whereas in none of the patients treated with HCQ retinal changes were reported.

Based on retrospective case reports and small series likely to be reported with bias, the use of HCQ in chILD might be classified as safe. As no prospective data on efficacy and safety of HCQ in chILD are available, systematic collection is necessary. This may be achieved by web‐based registers like the European Management Platform for Childhood Interstitial Lung Diseases. Prospective and controlled investigations of HCQ in patients with chILD are mandatory. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:410–419. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prediction of clinical pharmacokinetics of AMG 181, a human anti‐α4β7 monoclonal antibody for treating inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Li Hong , Köck Kathleen , Wisler John A. , Rees William A. , Prince Peter J. , Reynhardt Kai O. , Hsu Hailing , Yu Zhigang , Borie Dominic C. , Salinger David H. , Pan Wei‐Jian
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to predict a safe starting dose of AMG 181, a human anti‐α4β7 antibody for treating inflammatory bowel diseases, based on cynomolgus monkey pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) data. A two‐compartment model with parallel linear and target‐mediated drug disposition for AMG 181 PK in cynomolgus monkey was developed. The estimated parameters were allometrically scaled to predict human PK. An Emax PD model was used to relate AMG 181 concentration and free α4β7 receptor data in cynomolgus monkey. AMG 181 clinical doses were selected based on observed exposures at the no adverse effect level of 80 mg·kg−1 in monkeys, the predicted human exposures, and AMG 181 concentration expected to produce greater than 50% α4β7 receptor occupancy in humans. The predicted human AMG 181 clearance and central volume of distribution were 144 mL·day−1 and 2900 mL, respectively. The estimated EC50 for free α4β7 receptor was 14 ng·mL−1. At the 0.7 mg starting dose in humans, the predicted exposure margins were greater than 490,000 and AMG 181 concentrations were predicted to only briefly cover the free α4β7 receptor EC10. Predictions for both Cmax and AUC matched with those observed in the first‐in‐human study within the 7 mg subcutaneous to 420 mg intravenous dose range. The developed model aided in selection of a safe starting dose and a pharmacological relevant dose escalation strategy for testing of AMG 181 in humans. The clinically observed human AMG 181 PK data validated the modeling approach based on cynomolgus monkey data alone.
Low defect large area semi‐polar (112) GaN grown on patterned (113) silicon
Authors: Pristovsek Markus , Han Yisong , Zhu Tongtong , Frentrup Martin , Kappers Menno J. , Humphreys Colin J. , Kozlowski Grzegorz , Maaskant Pleun , Corbett Brian
Published: December 2014

We report on the growth of semi‐polar GaN (112) templates on patterned Si (113) substrates. Trenches were etched in Si (113) using KOH to expose Si {111} sidewalls. Subsequently an AlN layer to prevent meltback etching, an AlGaN layer for stress management, and finally two GaN layers were deposited. Total thicknesses up to 5 m were realised without cracks in the layer. Transmission electron microscopy showed that most dislocations propagate along [0001] direction and hence can be covered by overgrowth from the next trench. The defect densities were below and stacking fault densities less than 100 cm . These numbers are similar to reports on patterned r‐plane sapphire. Typical X‐ray full width at half maximum (FHWM) were 500” for the asymmetric (00.6) and 450” for the (11.2) reflection. These FHWMs were 50 % broader than reported for patterned r‐plane sapphire which is attributed to different defect structures and total thicknesses. The surface roughness shows strong variation on templates. For the final surface roughness the roughness of the sidewalls of the GaN ridges at the time of coalescence are critical.
Contribution of iron silicide nanoparticles to the magnetic behavior of annealed Fe‐implanted 6H‐SiC
Authors: Diallo M. L. , Fnidiki A. , Viret M. , Drouet M. , Eyidi D. , Declémy A.
Published: December 2014

The Fe‐implanted SiC is an interesting system in the DMS field although ion implantation induces strong microstructural defects needing post‐implantation treatments for recovery. These post‐implantation treatments often induce the formation of parasitic magnetic secondary phases. In this work, using XRD, SEM, TEM, CEMS and SQUID it is shown that post‐annealing of Fe‐implanted 6H‐SiC at 380°C with a few 1016Fe+ ions/cm2 at 900°C/60min, 1000°C/85min and 1300°C/4min enhanced the ferromagnetic ordering which can be partially explained by the formation of iron rich superparamagnetic nanoparticles. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Interproximal enamel reduction: An in vivo study
Authors: Paganelli Corrado , Zanarini Matteo , Pazzi Elisabetta , Marchionni Silvia , Visconti Luca , Alessandri Bonetti Giulio
Published: December 2014

The study aimed to investigate the morphology and composition of the interproximal reduced enamel after exposition to saliva and casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate with sodium fluoride (CPP‐ACPF). Fourteen patients undergoing an orthodontic treatment with 4 premolars extractions participated to the study. Interproximal enamel reduction (IER) was performed on mesial surfaces of 3 extractive premolars for each patient while 1 served as untreated control. Premolars were assigned to 4 groups: No‐S group, sound enamel as control; S‐Ex group, stripped and immediately extracted enamel; S‐Sal group, stripped and exposed to saliva enamel; S‐CPP group, stripped enamel treated with CPP‐ACPF. Teeth were extracted at different times, depending on the group they were assigned to and sliced into mesial and distal halves. Mesial surfaces were subjected to environmental scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (ESEM/EDX) and to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. ESEM/EDX investigations showed no statistically significant differences in the content of calcium and phosphate between the 4 groups. SEM observations showed no difference in the morphological appearance of stripped enamel after 30 days of exposure to saliva and CPP‐ACPF. Saliva and CPP‐ACPF effects on stripped enamel in vivo showed no difference after 30 days. SCANNING 37:73–81, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Strength of Strong Ties in an Emerging Industry: Experimental Evidence of the Effects of Status Hierarchies and Personal Ties in Venture Capitalist Decision Making
Authors: Wuebker Robert , Hampl Nina , Wüstenhagen Rolf
Published: December 2014

Drawing from social network theory, scholars have identified two ways in which social ties influence venture capital investment decisions: directly through personal ties and indirectly through status hierarchies. Previous research has examined these effects independently. Our study is the first to perform a joint examination of the role of social ties and status hierarchies in venture capital decision making. We examine the relative importance of these two mechanisms through an adaptive choice‐based conjoint experiment comprising of 3,132 investment decisions made by 86 venture capitalists from the United States and Europe. Our experimental context allows us to explore whether, under high levels of market uncertainty, strong personal ties exert more influence over investment decisions than the presence of a high‐status investor in the deal. We also explore the moderating effects that market structure and experience play in shaping these decision processes. Our findings reveal that personal ties are more important in venture capital decision making when compared to the relative status of other venture capital firms participating in the investment syndicate. Building on our main findings, we show that the influence of personal ties is less pronounced in the European investment community, as compared to more densely networked U.S. investors. We also find a U‐shaped relationship between venture capitalist experience and the influence of personal networks on investment decisions. Copyright © 2014 Strategic Management Society.
High‐dimensional propensity score algorithm in comparative effectiveness research with time‐varying interventions
Authors: Neugebauer Romain , Schmittdiel Julie A. , Zhu Zheng , Rassen Jeremy A. , Seeger John D. , Schneeweiss Sebastian
Published: December 2014

The high‐dimensional propensity score (hdPS) algorithm was proposed for automation of confounding adjustment in problems involving large healthcare databases. It has been evaluated in comparative effectiveness research (CER) with point treatments to handle baseline confounding through matching or covariance adjustment on the hdPS. In observational studies with time‐varying interventions, such hdPS approaches are often inadequate to handle time‐dependent confounding and selection bias. Inverse probability weighting (IPW) estimation to fit marginal structural models can adequately handle these biases under the fundamental assumption of no unmeasured confounders. Upholding of this assumption relies on the selection of an adequate set of covariates for bias adjustment. We describe the application and performance of the hdPS algorithm to improve covariate selection in CER with time‐varying interventions based on IPW estimation and explore stabilization of the resulting estimates using Super Learning. The evaluation is based on both the analysis of electronic health records data in a real‐world CER study of adults with type 2 diabetes and a simulation study. This report (i) establishes the feasibility of IPW estimation with the hdPS algorithm based on large electronic health records databases, (ii) demonstrates little impact on inferences when supplementing the set of expert‐selected covariates using the hdPS algorithm in a setting with extensive background knowledge, (iii) supports the application of the hdPS algorithm in discovery settings with little background knowledge or limited data availability, and (iv) motivates the application of Super Learning to stabilize effect estimates based on the hdPS algorithm. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A semantic engine for porting applications to the cloud and among clouds
Authors: Cretella Giuseppina , Di Martino Beniamino
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we present an engine based on semantic technologies aimed at supporting cloud applications developers, in the tasks of discovering functionalities, APIs, and resources needed for the application development through semantic based agnostic (vendor independent) representations of such application components, and representation of generic programming concepts and patterns, including application domain related ones. It handles, maintains, and exposes to the user in a graphical way the semantic descriptions of application domain concepts, application‐related concepts, general design patterns and programming functionalities, specific API implementations and cloud resources, layering the knowledge base in four layers. The semantic engine is a component of the European project mOSAICs framework. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production, structure, physicochemical and functional properties of maize, cassava, wheat, potato and rice starches
Authors: Waterschoot Jasmien , Gomand Sara V. , Fierens Ellen , Delcour Jan A.
Published: December 2014

In 2012, the world production of starch was 75 million tons. Maize, cassava, wheat and potato are the main botanical origins for starch production with only minor quantities of rice and other starches being produced. These starches are either used by industry as such or following some conversion. When selecting and developing starches for specific purposes, it is important to consider the differences between starches of varying botanical origin. Here, an overview is given of the production, structure, composition, morphology, swelling, gelatinisation, pasting and retrogradation, paste firmness and clarity and freeze–thaw stability of maize, cassava, wheat, potato and rice starches. Differences in properties are largely defined by differences in amylose and amylopectin structures and contents, granular organisation, presence of lipids, proteins and minerals and starch granule size.
Synthesis of methoxy poly (ethylene glycol)/starch grafted copolymers and investigation of their drug release behavior
Authors: Movagharnezhad Nasim , Najafi Moghadam Peyman
Published: December 2014

Methoxy poly (ethylene glycol)/starch grafted copolymers (MPEG‐g‐S) were synthesized through bromoacetylation of potato starch followed by substitution of methoxy poly (ethylene glycol) (MPEG)with various MWs (MPEG‐500, MPEG‐2000, and MPEG‐5000). Grafting was performed at 50°C. The structure of the copolymers was characterized by FTIR, DSC, Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), XRD, and AFM. Loading of ceftizoxime antibiotic was carried out on the prepared copolymers and in vitro drug released behavior was investigated in three different media (HCl solution: pH = 3 and buffer solutions: pH = 6 and pH = 8).
A very low complexity IR‐UWB transmitter with BPSK modulation for balanced antenna
Authors: Khalesi Hassan , Nabavi Abdolreza , Mirzakouchaki Sattar
Published: December 2014

A very low complexity impulse radio‐ultrawideband (IR‐UWB) transmitter suitable for balanced antenna is presented. This all‐digital transmitter employs the binary phase‐shift keying (BPSK) modulation scheme and eliminates the need for a balun. Also, a new Gaussian monocycle pulse generator is proposed which is used as impulse transmitted signal. The transmitter circuit was designed in 0.18‐μm complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor technology. The post‐simulation results show that the core chip size was only 0.02 mm2. The output amplitude pulse yielded 150 mV peak‐to‐peak under a supply voltage of 1.8 V. Simulation results show that the transmitter consumes 8.5 pJ/pulse for 200‐MHz pulse repeating frequency. © 2014 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
CXS chemical dry vacuum pump brings smart vacuum to the process industry
Authors: Collins Don , Nagel Manfred
Published: December 2014

Dry vacuum pumps are now well established around the world as an efficient, reliable option for demanding chemical processing industry applications. Chemical processors are placing new demands on the market, driving an emerging trend for vacuum to be seen as a utility; highly reliable, flexible, and available on demand in a ′plug and pump′ system that requires minimum set up and maintenance. CXS dry vacuum pump systems from Edwards have been in operation worldwide for several years now, and are providing ′utilitarian′ high performing, highly controllable vacuum equipment allowing processors to minimise running costs and reduce environmental performance.
Versatile genetic paintbrushes: Brainbow technologies
Authors: Richier Benjamin , Salecker Iris
Published: December 2014

Advances in labeling technologies are instrumental to study the developmental mechanisms that control organ formation and function at the cellular level. Until recently, genetic tools relied on the expression of single markers to visualize individual cells or lineages in developing and adult animals. Exploiting the expanding color palette of fluorescent proteins and the power of site‐specific recombinases in rearranging DNA fragments, the development of Brainbow strategies in mice made it possible to stochastically label many cells in different colors within the same sample. Over the past years, these pioneering approaches have been adapted for other experimental model organisms, including Drosophila melanogaster, zebrafish, and chicken. Balancing the distinct requirements of single cell and clonal analyses, adjustments were made that both enhance and expand the functionality of these tools. Multicolor cell labeling techniques have been successfully applied in studies analyzing the cellular components of neural circuits and other tissues, and the compositions and interactions of lineages. While being continuously refined, Brainbow technologies have thus found a firm place in the genetic toolboxes of developmental and neurobiologists. WIREs Dev Biol 2015, 4:161–180. doi: 10.1002/wdev.166

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Generating Chimeras and Lineage Analysis
Post‐dispersal seed removal of Carduus nutans and C. acanthoides by insects and small mammals
Authors: Jongejans Eelke , Silverman Edward J. , Skarpaas Olav , Shea Katriona
Published: December 2014

The journey of wind‐dispersed seeds does not necessarily end when they land. Secondary dispersal and/or predation can positively or negatively affect the spread of invasive plants. Here we studied post‐dispersal seed removal of nodding and plumeless thistle (Carduus nutans and C. acanthoides) in part of their invaded range in Pennsylvania, USA. The relative impact of small mammals and insects was determined using exclusion treatments in the field. In cages that allowed insect access, 88 % of the seeds were removed after 1 day, and 99.9 % were removed after the 6‐day trial. When insects were excluded, the removal rate was significantly lower (18 % after 1 day, 40 % after 6 days). The seed removal rates provide an upper limit to the seed predation rate, with the understanding that it is also possible for seed removal to be an important secondary dispersal mechanism. We discuss a combined empirical‐theoretical approach to evaluate the impact of these alternative seed fates on the spread and management of these thistles.
Interest deductibility restrictions and organizational form
Authors: Blaufus Kay , Kreinacke Marcos , Mantei Britta
Published: December 2014

Using a theoretical model for risky investment decisions, we study the effect of interest deductibility restrictions on the choice of organizational form. We analyze the two most widely used approaches: first, rules that limit the interest deductibility if the firm’s leverage exceeds a specific level, and second, rules that restrict the interest deduction if the interest expenses exceed a specific percentage of the firm’s earnings. Although these restrictions apply uniformly for partnerships and corporations in many countries, we find that they usually distort the choice of organizational form. We demonstrate that only leverage-based interest deductibility restrictions can in theory be modified to achieve organizational form neutrality. However, this requires a legal form dependent application or absence of dividend taxation and in any case a full loss offset which is in contrast to current law in many countries. If one considers corporate loss offset limitations, both types of interest deductibility restrictions always distort the choice of organizational form. Thus, the introduction of interest deductibility restrictions is actually in conflict with the legislators’ often declared aim to design tax systems that are neutral with respect to the choice of organizational form.
Participation in Ball Sports May Represent a Prehabilitation Strategy to Prevent Future Stress Fractures and Promote Bone Health in Young Athletes
Authors: Tenforde Adam Sebastian , Lynn Sainani Kristin , Carter Sayres Lauren , Milgrom Charles , Fredericson Michael
Published: December 2014

Sports participation has many benefits for the young athlete, including improved bone health. However, a subset of athletes may attain suboptimal bone health and be at increased risk for stress fractures. This risk is greater for female than for male athletes. In healthy children, high‐impact physical activity has been shown to improve bone health during growth and development. We offer our perspective on the importance of promoting high‐impact, multidirectional loading activities, including ball sports, as a method of enhancing bone quality and fracture prevention based on collective research. Ball sports have been associated with greater bone mineral density and enhanced bone geometric properties compared with participation in repetitive, low‐impact sports such as distance running or nonimpact sports such as swimming. Runners and infantry who participated in ball sports during childhood were at decreased risk of future stress fractures. Gender‐specific differences, including the coexistence of female athlete triad, may negate the benefits of previous ball sports on fracture prevention. Ball sports involve multidirectional loading with high ground reaction forces that may result in stiffer and more fracture‐resistant bones. Encouraging young athletes to participate in ball sports may optimize bone health in the setting of adequate nutrition and in female athletes, eumenorrhea. Future research to determine timing, frequency, and type of loading activity could result in a primary prevention program for stress fracture injuries and improved life‐long bone health.
Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Heat-Related Illness: 2014 Update
Authors: Lipman Grant S. , Eifling Kurt P. , Ellis Mark A. , Gaudio Flavio G. , Otten Edward M. , Grissom Colin K.
Published: December 2014

The Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) convened an expert panel to develop a set of evidence-based guidelines for the recognition, prevention, and treatment of heat illness. We present a review of the classifications, pathophysiology, and evidence-based guidelines for planning and preventive measures as well as best practice recommendations for both field and hospital-based therapeutic management of heat illness. These recommendations are graded on the basis of the quality of supporting evidence, and balance between the benefits and risks or burdens for each modality. This is an updated version of the original WMS Practice Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Heat-Related Illness published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine 2013;24(4):351–361.
Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Treatment of Exercise-Associated Hyponatremia: 2014 Update
Authors: Bennett Brad L. , Hew-Butler Tamara , Hoffman Martin D. , Rogers Ian R. , Rosner Mitchell H.
Published: December 2014

Exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH) is defined by a serum or plasma sodium concentration below the normal reference range of 135 mmol/L that occurs during or up to 24 hours after prolonged physical activity. It is reported to occur in individual physical activities or during organized endurance events conducted in austere environments in which medical care is limited and often not available, and patient evacuation to definitive care is often greatly delayed. Rapid recognition and appropriate treatment are essential in the severe form to ensure a positive outcome. Failure in this regard is a recognized cause of event-related fatality. In an effort to produce best practice guidelines for EAH in the austere environment, the Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel. The panel was charged with the development of evidence-based guidelines for management of EAH. Recommendations are made regarding the situations when sodium concentration can be assessed in the field and when these values are not known. These recommendations are graded on the basis of the quality of supporting evidence and balance between the benefits and risks/burdens for each parameter according to the methodology stipulated by the American College of Chest Physicians. This is an updated version of the original WMS Practice Guidelines for Treatment of Exercise-Associated Hyponatremia published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine 2013;24(3):228–240.
Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Basic Wound Management in the Austere Environment: 2014 Update
Authors: Quinn Robert H. , Wedmore Ian , Johnson Eric L. , Islas Arthur A. , Anglim Anne , Zafren Ken , Bitter Cindy , Mazzorana Vicki
Published: December 2014

In an effort to produce best-practice guidelines for wound management in the austere environment, the Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel charged with the development of evidence-based guidelines for the management of wounds sustained in an austere (dangerous or compromised) environment. Recommendations are made about several parameters related to wound management. These recommendations are graded based on the quality of supporting evidence and the balance between the benefits and risks or burdens for each parameter according to the methodology stipulated by the American College of Chest Physicians. This is an updated version of the original guidelines published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine 2014;25(3):295-310.