bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An overview of the safety and biological effects of Bacillus thuringiensis Cry toxins in mammals
Authors: Rubio‐Infante Néstor , Moreno‐Fierros Leticia
Published: November 2015

Crystal proteins (Cry) produced during the growth and sporulation phases of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) bacterium are known as delta endotoxins. These toxins are being used worldwide as bioinsecticides to control pests in agriculture, and some Cry toxins are used against mosquitoes to control vector transmission. This review summarizes the relevant information currently available regarding the biosafety and biological effects that Bt and its insecticidal Cry proteins elicit in mammals. This work was performed because of concerns regarding the possible health impact of Cry toxins on vertebrates, particularly because Bt toxins might be associated with immune‐activating or allergic responses. The controversial data published to date are discussed in this review considering earlier toxicological studies of B. thuringiensis, spores, toxins and Bt crops. We discussed the experimental studies performed in humans, mice, rats and sheep as well as in diverse mammalian cell lines. Although the term ’toxic‘ is not appropriate for defining the effects these toxins have on mammals, they cannot be considered innocuous, as they have some physiological effects that may become pathological; thus, trials that are more comprehensive are necessary to determine their effects on mammals because knowledge in this field remains limited. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proliferative activity of elastin‐like‐peptides depends on charge and phase transition
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Koria Piyush
Published: October 2015

Elastin‐like‐peptides (ELPs) are stimulus‐responsive protein‐based polymers and are attractive biomaterials due to their biocompatibility and unique properties. This study shows that in addition to their physical properties, ELPs have biological activities that are conducive to tissue regeneration. Specifically, we found that ELPs induce fibroblast proliferation via cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG). Furthermore, our data suggests that ELP based materials with differential proliferative potential can be designed by controlling the interaction of ELPs with HSPGs by incorporating either hydrophobic or positively charged residues within the ELP sequence. Fibroblast proliferation is important for granulation tissue formation which is important in chronic wounds as well as in healing of other tissues. The customizable biological activity of ELPs coupled with their unique physical properties will enable us to design novel, sustainable and cost effective therapies for different tissue regeneration applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 697–706, 2016.
Layer‐by‐layer inorganic/polymeric nanoparticles for kinetically controlled multigene delivery
Authors: Bishop Corey J. , Liu Allen L. , Lee David S. , Murdock Richard J. , Green Jordan J.
Published: October 2015

Nonviral gene delivery methods represent a potential safe and effective approach for treating myriad diseases. For many gene therapy applications, delivering multiple exogenous genes and controlling the time profile that these genes are expressed would be advantageous. Polymeric nonviral gene carriers are versatile and can be readily tailored for particular therapeutic applications, have the ability to carry multiple large genes within each particle, and can be more easily manufactured than viruses used for gene delivery. A layer‐by‐layer (LbL) theranostic‐enabling nanoparticle was developed to incorporate two plasmid types which have differing expression time profiles. Temporally controlling the expression of exogenous DNA enables superior control over the microenvironment and could lead to better control over differentiation pathways and cell fate. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 707–713, 2016.
Diffusive dynamics of DNA unzipping in a nanopore
Authors: Stachiewicz Anna , Molski Andrzej
Published: October 2015

When an electric field is applied to an insulating membrane, movement of charged particles through a nanopore is induced. The measured ionic current reports on biomolecules passing through the nanopore. In this work, we explored the kinetics of DNA unzipping in a nanopore using our coarse‐grained model (Stachiewicz and Molski, J. Comput. Chem. 2015, 36, 947). Coarse graining allowed a more detailed analysis for a wider range of parameters than all‐atom simulations. Dependence of the translocation mode (unzipping or distortion) on the pore diameter was examined, and the threshold voltages were estimated. We determined the potential of mean force, position‐dependent diffusion coefficient, and position‐dependent effective charge for the DNA unzipping. The three molecular profiles were correlated with the ionic current and molecular events. On the unzipping/translocation force profile, two energy maxima were found, one of them corresponding to the unzipping, and the other to the translocation barriers. The unzipping kinetics were further explored using Brownian dynamics. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intravoxel incoherent motion MRI for predicting early response to induction chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Xiao‐ping Yu , Jing Hou , Fei‐ping Li , Yin Hu , Qiang Lu , Lanlan Wang , Wei Wang
Published: November 2015

Background

To investigate the value of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI) in predicting the early response to induction chemotherapy (IC) and chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

Fifty NPC patients who received IC and CRT underwent an IVIM DW‐MRI on a 1.5‐Tesla MRI scanner. The pretreatment and posttreatment (20 days after IC initiation) IVIM‐based parameters (ADC, D, D*, and f), and their percentage changes (△%), were compared between the effective (complete response or partial response) and ineffective (stable disease) groups based on RECIST 1.1, and between the residual and nonresidual groups.

Results

None of the perfusion‐related parameter' values showed significant differences between the effective and ineffective groups (p values for pref, postf, △%f, preD*, postD*, and △%D* were 0.364, 0.129, 0.792, 0.804, 0.167, and 0.428, respectively), or between the residual and nonresidual groups (P values for pref, postf, △%f, preD*, postD*, and △%D* were 0.328, 0.776, 0.546, 0.558, 0.214, and 0.414, respectively). The ineffective group exhibited higher preADC, higher preD and lower △%D values than the effective group (all P <  0.001). The nonresidual group had lower preD, lower preADC and higher △%D values (all P <  0.05) than the residual group. △%D had the highest area under curve (0.859) in predicting the response to IC, whereas preD had the highest area under curve (0.841) in predicting tumor residue after CRT.

Conclusion

Diffusion‐related IVIM‐based parameters might be more helpful than perfusion‐related parameters in predicting the early effects of IC and CRT for NPC. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1179–1190.
Why are the Indian monsoon transients short‐lived and less intensified during droughts vis‐à‐vis good monsoon years? An inspection through scale interactive energy exchanges in frequency domain
Authors: Agarwal N. K. , Naik S. S. , De S. , Sahai A. K.
Published: November 2015

The interannual variability of Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) is largely dictated by the continental tropical convergence zone (CTCZ), characterized by the frequent cyclogenetic tendency associated with the transitory low pressure systems (LPS(s) or monsoon transients) such as lows, depressions, cyclonic storms etc. A good monsoon is characterized by more intense and sustainable transients having longer westward propagation in comparison with the LPS(s) during weak monsoon. Now the questions arise from the energetics aspects – how does the energy favour the CTCZ to be more cyclogenetic during the good monsoon years? From where the monsoon transients are gaining energy to intensify and to sustain for longer durations during good monsoons compared with those in weak monsoons? The non‐linear scale interactions may possibly be the dynamical reason for the intensification and maintenance of LPS(s), but, the quantification of non‐linear interactions among the seasonal mean, low frequency oscillations, and synoptic scales are not revealed so far in previous studies. First time, the scale interactive energy exchanges in frequency domain have been explored to unravel the causes of weak LPS(s) during droughts vis‐à‐vis good monsoon years. It may be inferred from this study that the seasonal mean may play a crucial role for the generation of low and high frequency oscillations through mean–wave interaction whereas the wave–wave interactions have a significant contribution in intensification as well as the maintenance of monsoon transients. The dominant transfer of kinetic energy from the low frequency oscillations to synoptic scale observed over the large region of CTCZ favours the synoptic systems to intensify, survive for longer duration over that region before dissipation causing CTCZ to be more cyclogenetic during the good monsoon period with respect to those in weak monsoons attributing to the rainfall variability over the Indian landmass in contrasting monsoon seasons.
Governing GMOs in the USA: science, law and public health
Authors: Yang Y. Tony , Chen Brian
Published: November 2015

Controversy surrounds the production and consumption of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Proponents argue that GMO food sources represent the only viable solution to food shortages in an ever‐growing global population. Science reports no harm from GMO use and consumption so far. Opponents fear the potentially negative impact that GMO development and use could have on the environment and consumers, and are concerned about the lack of data on the long‐term effects of GMO use. We discuss the development of GMO food sources, the history of legislation and policy for the labeling requirements of GMO food products, and the health, environmental, and legal rationale for and against GMO food labeling. The Food and Drug Administration regulates food with GMOs within a coordinated framework of federal agencies. Despite mounting scientific evidence that GMO foods are substantially equivalent to traditionally bred food sources, debate remains over the appropriateness of GMO food labeling. In fact, food manufacturers have mounted a First Amendment challenge against Vermont's passage of a law that requires GMO labeling. Mandatory GMO labeling is not supported by science. Compulsory GMO labels may not only hinder the development of agricultural biotechnology, but may also exacerbate the misconception that GMOs endanger people's health. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Sample‐directed pseudotargeted method for the metabolic profiling analysis of rice seeds based on liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Zhao Chunxia , Zeng Zhongda , Luo Ping , Zhao Yanni , Zhao Jieyu , Li Lili , Lu Xin , Xu Guowang
Published: October 2015

Rice is one of the most important food crops in the world. Metabolite composition in rice seeds varies significantly depending on genetic variety, climatic alternation and agricultural practice. Metabolomics is a powerful tool to reveal the metabolic response of rice to various conditions. In this work, a rice seed sample‐directed pseudotargeted metabolomics method was first established and validated based on ultra high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry in the multiple reaction monitoring mode. A total of 749 and 617 ion pairs in positive and negative modes were achieved, respectively. Among them, about 200 metabolites were identified or tentatively identified. The developed method showed better linearity and repeatability than those of non‐targeted metabolomics method. Good intra‐day and inter‐day precisions, recoveries and wide linear range were also obtained. Furthermore, the method was applied for the investigation of metabolic variation of rice seeds with two wild cultivars and their transgenic lines that were grown in two locations. Principal component analysis indicated that the effects of cultivar and location on metabolic variations were far more than those of gene modification. The nonparametric Mann–Whitney U test revealed that most metabolites were influenced by cultivar, location and gene modifications together.
Graphene oxide reinforced polymeric ionic liquid monolith solid‐phase microextraction sorbent for high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis of phenolic compounds in aqueous environmental samples
Authors: Sun Min , Bu Yanan , Feng Juanjuan , Luo Chuannan
Published: October 2015

A graphene oxide reinforced polymeric ionic liquids monolith was obtained by copolymerization of graphene oxide doped 1‐(3‐aminopropyl)‐3‐(4‐vinylbenzyl)imidazolium 4‐styrenesulfonate monomer and 1,6‐di‐(3‐vinylimidazolium) hexane bihexafluorophosphate cross‐linking agent. Coupled to high‐performance liquid chromatography, the monolith was used as a solid‐phase microextraction sorbent to analyze several phenolic compounds in aqueous samples. Under the optimized extraction and desorption conditions, linear ranges were 5–400 μg/L for 3‐nitrophenol, 2‐nitrophenol, and 2,5‐dichlorophenol and 2–400 μg/L for 4‐chlorophenol, 2‐methylphenol, and 2,4,6‐trichlorophenol (R2 = 0.9973–0.9988). The limits of detection were 0.5 μg/L for 3‐nitrophenol and 2‐nitrophenol and 0.2 μg/L for the rest of the analytes. The proposed method was used to determine target analytes in groundwater from an industrial park and river water. None of the analytes was detected. Relative recoveries were in the range of 75.5–113%.
A new two‐phase structure‐preserving doubling algorithm for critically singular M‐matrix algebraic Riccati equations
Authors: Huang Tsung‐Ming , Huang Wei‐Qiang , Li Ren‐Cang , Lin Wen‐Wei
Published: November 2015

Among numerous iterative methods for solving the minimal nonnegative solution of an M‐matrix algebraic Riccati equation, the structure‐preserving doubling algorithm (SDA) stands out owing to its overall efficiency as well as accuracy. SDA is globally convergent and its convergence is quadratic, except for the critical case for which it converges linearly with the linear rate 1/2. In this paper, we first undertake a delineatory convergence analysis that reveals that the approximations by SDA can be decomposed into two components: the stable component that converges quadratically and the rank‐one component that converges linearly with the linear rate 1/2. Our analysis also shows that as soon as the stable component is fully converged, the rank‐one component can be accurately recovered. We then propose an efficient hybrid method, called the two‐phase SDA, for which the SDA iteration is stopped as soon as it is determined that the stable component is fully converged. Therefore, this two‐phase SDA saves those SDA iterative steps that previously have to have for the rank‐one component to be computed accurately, and thus essentially, it can be regarded as a quadratically convergent method. Numerical results confirm our analysis and demonstrate the efficiency of the new two‐phase SDA. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictors of workplace violence among ambulance personnel: a longitudinal study
Authors: van der Velden Peter G. , Bosmans Mark W.G. , van der Meulen Erik
Published: November 2015

Aim

To examine predictors of repeated confrontations with workplace violence among ambulance personnel, the proportion of exposure to potentially traumatic events that are aggression‐related and to what extent personnel was able to prevent escalations. Although previous research assessed the prevalences among this group, little is known about predictors, to what extent PTE's are WPV‐related and their abilities to prevent escalations.

Design

A longitudinal study with a 6 months' time interval (N = 103).

Methods

At T1 demographics, workplace violence and potentially traumatic events in the past year, mental health, personality, handling of rules, coping and social organizational stressors were assessed. Confrontations with aggression were also examined at T2.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that only problems with superiors independently predicted repeated verbal aggression and that only the (absence of the) ability to compromise very easily predicted repeatedly being on guard and repeatedly confronted with any form of aggression. Due to very low prevalences, we could not examine predictors of repeated confrontations with physical aggression (N = 5) and serious threat (N = 7). A large majority reported that in most workplace violence cases they could prevent further escalations. About 2% reported a potentially traumatic event in the year before T1 that was WPV related and perceived as very stressful.
Dose response of exercise training following roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery: A randomized trial
Authors: Woodlief Tracey L. , Carnero Elvis A. , Standley Robert A. , Distefano Giovanna , Anthony Steve J. , Dubis Gabe S. , Jakicic John M. , Houmard Joseph A. , Coen Paul M. , Goodpaster Bret H.
Published: November 2015

Objective

Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery can cause profound weight loss and improve overall cardiometabolic risk factors. Exercise (EX) training following RYGB can provide additional improvements in insulin sensitivity (SI) and cardiorespiratory fitness. However, it remains unknown whether a specific amount of EX post‐RYGB is required to achieve additional benefits.

Methods

We performed a post hoc analysis of participants who were randomized into either a 6‐month structured EX program or a health education control (CON). The EX group (n = 56) was divided into tertiles according to the amount of weekly exercise performed, compared with CON (n = 42): low‐EX = 54 ± 8; middle‐EX = 129 ± 4; and high‐EX = 286 ± 40 min per week.

Results

The high‐EX lost a significantly greater amount of body weight, total fat mass, and abdominal deep subcutaneous abdominal fat compared with CON (P < 0.005). SI improved to a greater extent in both the middle‐EX and high‐EX compared with CON (P < 0.04). Physical fitness (VO2 max) significantly improved in the high‐EX (9.3% ± 4.2%) compared with CON (−6.0 ± 2.4%) (P < 0.001). Skeletal muscle mitochondrial State 4 (P < 0.002) and 3 (P < 0.04) respiration was significantly higher in the high‐EX compared with CON.

Conclusions

A modest volume of structured exercise provides additional improvements in insulin sensitivity following RYGB, but higher volumes of exercise are required to induce additional weight loss, changes in body composition, and improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness and skeletal muscle mitochondrial capacity.
Characterization and antimicrobial properties of metal complexes of polypropylene fibers grafted with acrylic acid using gamma irradiation
Authors: Hassan Mahmoud S. , Ibrahim Haytham M. M.
Published: November 2015

Polypropylene fibers were treated against microbial effects by gamma radiation‐induced grafting of acrylic acid, followed by metal complexation with Zn2+ or Ag+ metal ions. The treated polypropylene fibers were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The effect of the treatment on the thermal stability was investigated by using thermogravimetric analysis, in which a slight increase in the major thermal stability was observed. The antimicrobial activity of the treated fibers was also evaluated. On the basis of the obtained results, it was found that the antimicrobial properties of the treated fibers were enhanced both qualitatively, as indicated by the distinct inhibition zone diameter towards Gram‐positive as well as Gram‐negative bacterial strains under study, and quantitatively, in which 100% inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was achieved. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Processing and characterization of a polylactic acid/nanoclay composite for laser sintering
Authors: Bai Jiaming , Goodridge Ruth D. , Hague Richard J.M. , Okamoto Masami
Published: November 2015

In this work, the feasibility of processing polylactic acid (PLA) and a PLA/nanoclay composite by laser sintering (LS) were investigated. The morphology of both the PLA and PLA/nanoclay powder was examined by scanning electron microscopy. LS process parameters, especially powder bed temperature, laser power, and laser scan count were studied. The effect of the addition of nanoclay on the thermal and flexural properties of LS PLA parts was examined. The results showed that PLA/nanoclay required a lower processing powder bed temperature compared with neat PLA. Under the same powder bed temperature, PLA/nanoclay parts exhibited an improvement in flexural modulus compared with neat PLA. Flexural modulus was increased significantly with double scan for both neat PLA and PLA/nanoclay LS parts. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2570–2576, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
PERC+: industrial PERC solar cells with rear Al grid enabling bifaciality and reduced Al paste consumption
Authors: Dullweber Thorsten , Kranz Christopher , Peibst Robby , Baumann Ulrike , Hannebauer Helge , Fülle Alexander , Steckemetz Stefan , Weber Torsten , Kutzer Martin , Müller Matthias , Fischer Gerd , Palinginis Phedon , Neuhaus Holger
Published: October 2015

Passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) solar cells are currently being introduced into mass production. In this paper, we report a novel PERC solar cell design that applies a screen‐printed rear Al finger grid instead of the conventional full‐area aluminum (Al) rear layer while using the same PERC manufacturing sequence. We name this novel cell concept PERC+ because it offers several advantages. In particular, the Al paste consumption of the PERC+ cells is drastically reduced to 0.15 g instead of 1.6 g for the conventional PERC cells. The Al fingers create 2‐µm‐deeper aluminum back surface fields, which increases the open‐circuit voltage by 4 mV. The five‐busbar Al finger grid enables bifacial applications of the PERC+ cells with front‐side efficiencies up to 20.8% and rear‐side efficiencies up to 16.5% measured with a black chuck. The corresponding bifaciality is 79%. When applied in monofacial modules where the white back sheet acts as external rear reflector, the efficiency of the PERC+ cells is estimated to 20.9%, which is comparable with conventional PERC cells. Whereas Institute for Solar Energy Research Hamelin developed the aforementioned PERC+ results, SolarWorld independently pioneered a very similar bifacial PERC+ cell process starting in 2014. Transfer into mass production has been successfully accomplished, and novel glass–glass bifacial PERC+ modules have been launched at the Intersolar 2015 based on a most simple, lean, and cost‐effective bifacial cell process. These new bifacial PERC+ modules show an increase in annual energy yield between 5% and 25% in simulations, which is confirmed by first outdoor measurements. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oncoproteomics: Trials and tribulations
Authors: Zhou Li , Li Qifu , Wang Jiandong , Huang Canhua , Nice Edouard C.
Published: October 2015

Oncoproteomics is the study of cancer‐associated proteins and their interactions using proteomic technologies. It is expected to play a crucial role in the detection and surveillance of cancer, as well as in the development of personalized medicine for oncology. In this review, we will outline the current status, advantages, and limitations of oncoproteomics. Further, we will discuss available strategies arising from a better understanding of oncoproteomics, including integrated omics approaches, to overcome current problems in the discovery and validation of biomarkers, identification of novel drug targets, and management of personalized medicine.
Leaf application of a sprayable bioplastic‐based formulation of biocontrol Aspergillus flavus strains for reduction of aflatoxins in corn
Authors: Accinelli Cesare , Abbas Hamed K , Vicari Alberto , Shier W Thomas
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Applying non‐aflatoxin‐producing Aspergillus flavus isolates to the soil has been shown to be effective in reducing aflatoxin levels in harvested crops, including peanuts, cotton and corn. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility of controlling aflatoxin contamination using a novel sprayable formulation consisting of a partially gelatinized starch‐based bioplastic dispersion embedded with spores of biocontrol A. flavus strains, which is applied to the leaf surfaces of corn plants.

RESULTS

The formulation was shown to be adherent, resulting in colonization of leaf surfaces with the biocontrol strain of A. flavus, and to reduce aflatoxin contamination of harvested kernels by up to 80% in Northern Italy and by up to 89% in the Mississippi Delta. The percentage of aflatoxin‐producing isolates in the soil reservoir under leaf‐treated corn was not significantly changed, even when the soil was amended with additional A. flavus as a model of changes to the soil reservoir that occur in no‐till agriculture.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that it is not necessary to treat the soil reservoir in order to achieve effective biocontrol of aflatoxin contamination in kernel corn. Spraying this novel bioplastic‐based formulation to leaves can be an effective alternative in the biocontrol of A. flavus in corn. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Subgrid‐scale cloud–radiation feedback for theBetts–Miller–Janjić convection scheme
Authors: Koh Tieh‐Yong , Fonseca Ricardo
Published: November 2015

Cloud–radiation feedbacks play a crucial role in the climate system and continue to be a major source of uncertainty in global climate model projections. Despite its importance for regional and local circulations, these feedback processes are not included in subgrid‐scale convective parametrizations used in regional weather and climate models, in particular in adjustment schemes that, as opposed to mass‐flux schemes, do not deal with convective condensates. Here we present a cloud scheme developed for theBetts–Miller–Janjić (BMJ) cumulus scheme used in theWeatherResearch andForecasting (WRF) model that is fully general and can easily be applied to any other convective scheme. We parametrize the convective cloud fraction as a function of theBMJtime‐step precipitation rate with the vertical cloud profile given by a ‘top‐heavy’Poisson distribution, similar to observed profiles. The cloud condensates are defined based on the assumption that the mass of convective cloud per unit mass of water vapour in cloudy air is constant in the column. In this scheme there are two tunable parameters:δ, that determines the vertical structure of the convective cloud, andγ, that controls the amount of cloud mass. The performance of the scheme is evaluated in a 1‐year run andWRFis found to give a much better representation of the observed cloudiness with smaller biases in the surface radiation fields with respect to observations and reanalysis.
The Evolution of English Justice
Authors: Musson Anthony , Ormrod W. M.
Published: October 2015

The importance of the fourteenth century for the development of English law has long been recognised. The shocks and challenges of that period - the murder of the incompetent Edward II, Edward III's ever escalating military demands for the war in France and the unparalleled disaster of the Black Death - gave English society a trauma that found its ultimate expression in Lollardy and the Peasants' Revolt. Out of this ferment came the evolution of a system of justice still substantially recognisable today. This key theme for students of late medieval England has often been made needlessly difficult by the rarefied nature of most books available on the subject. The aim of this book is to present in lucid and approachable terms the main outline of the debate and the different schools of thought, and to suggest the best ways by which students can understand a crucial subject and how this helps illuminate many other aspects of English society during the reigns of Edward II, Edward III and Richard II.
Review of Commercially Available Epilepsy Genetic Panels
Authors: Chambers Chelsea , Jansen Laura A. , Dhamija Radhika
Published: November 2015

Next generation sequencing panels have revolutionized the diagnostic approach to patients with epilepsy. There are several commercial epilepsy panels available. We assessed the list of genes tested and consent forms for epilepsy panels available at seven laboratories. The panels varied in the number of genes included (70–465 genes). In some panels, genes not currently associated with epilepsy were included (up to 4 % of panel content). The panels also included genes for lysosomal storage disorders (6–12 %), congenital disorders of glycosylation (0–8.5 %), metabolic disorders (3.5–34 %), neurological syndromes (18–43 %) and multisystemic genetic syndromes (6.4–21 %). Informed consents differed significantly between laboratories ranging from basic information about genetic testing and possible results to information about insurance, genetic counseling and familial testing, and incidental findings.

Our findings suggest that it is important to consider the range of genes offered on epilepsy panels and their predicted phenotypes in an effort toward improving the informed consent process.
Effect of Cu Addition to Zn-12Al Alloy on Thermal Properties and Wettability on Cu and Al Substrates
Authors: Gancarz Tomasz , Pstruś Janusz , Mosińska Sylwia , Pawlak Sylwia
Published: November 2015

The thermal properties, electrical resistivity, thermal linear expansion and tensile strength of a new high-temperature lead-free solder based on a eutectic Zn-Al alloy with 0.5, 1.0, or 1.5 at. pct Cu added were studied. Wettability studies on Cu substrate were performed with flux at 773 K (500 °C) for 60, 180, 240, 900, 1800, and 3600 seconds, and for 480 seconds at 733 K, 753 K, 773 K, 793 K, and 823 K (460 °C, 480 °C, 500 °C, 520 °C, and 550 °C, respectively). The experiment was designed to demonstrate the effect of the addition of Cu on the kinetics of the formation and growth of the CuZn, Cu5Zn8, CuZn4, and Al4Cu9 phases, which were identified by X-ray diffraction analysis. Wetting tests were also performed on the Al substrate, for 15 and 30 seconds at 773 K and 793 K (500 °C and 520 °C, respectively). Very low contact angles on Al pads were obtained. The electrical resistivity of Zn-Al-Cu alloys was slightly higher than that of the ZnAl eutectic alloy. The present results are discussed with respect to the available literature on Zn-Al and Zn-Al-Cu alloys.
Dietary ALA from Spinach Enhances Liver n‐3 Fatty Acid Content to Greater Extent than Linseed Oil in Mice Fed Equivalent Amounts of ALA
Authors: Kuroe Miho , Kamogawa Hiroyuki , Hosokawa Masashi , Miyashita Kazuo
Published: November 2015

Although several works have reported absorption rate differences of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) bound to different lipid forms, such as ethyl ester, triacylglycerol (TAG), and phospholipids, no studies have investigated the effect of n‐3 PUFA from glycolipids (GL). The present study compared the fatty acid contents of tissue and serum lipids from normal C57BL/6J mice fed two types of α‐linolenic acid (ALA)‐rich lipids, spinach lipid (SPL), and linseed oil (LO). ALA was primarily present as the GL form in SPL, while it existed as TAG in LO. Supplementation of both lipids increased ALA and its n‐3 metabolites, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid, and decreased n‐6 PUFA, linoleic acid and arachidonic acid, in the livers, small intestines, and sera of the treated mice compared with those of the control group. When the comparison between the SPL and LO diets containing the same amount of ALA was conducted, the EPA and DPA levels in the liver lipids from mice fed the SPL diet were significantly higher than those fed the LO diet. Additionally, the total contents of n‐3 PUFA of lipids from the livers, small intestines, and sera of the SPL group were higher than those of the LO group.
Semantic and nonfluent aphasic variants, secondarily associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are predominant frontotemporal lobar degeneration phenotypes in TBK1 carriers
Authors: Caroppo Paola , Camuzat Agnès , De Septenville Anne , Couratier Philippe , Lacomblez Lucette , Auriacombe Sophie , Flabeau Olivier , Jornéa Ludmila , Blanc Frederic , Sellal François , Cretin Benjamin , Meininger Vincent , Fleury Marie‐Céline , Couarch Philippe , Dubois Bruno , Brice Alexis , Le Ber Isabelle
Published: October 2015

Introduction

TBK1 mutations represent a rare novel genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) without or with dementia. The full spectrum of TBK1 phenotypes has not been completely defined so far.

Methods

We describe the clinical and neuroimaging characteristics of loss‐of‐function mutation carriers initially presenting with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) phenotypes.

Results

Two carriers initially presented semantic variant of FTLD (svFTLD); two other developed nonfluent variant of FTLD (nfvFTLD) and corticobasal syndrome (CBS), associated with severe anterior temporal and opercular atrophy. All secondarily developed ALS.

Discussion

This study enlarges the phenotypic spectrum of TBK1 mutations, including svFTLD and nfvFTLD/CBS, not reported so far. Aphasic presentations seem to be more evocative of TBK1 genotype than behavioral variant of FTLD, and TBK1 should be analyzed in patients with isolated FTLD at onset, particularly in rare aphasic cases secondarily associated with ALS.
Japan's ODA assistance scheme and Central Asian engagement: Determinants, trends, expectations
Authors: Dadabaev Timur
Published: October 2015

As demonstrated in this paper, Japan over the years has grown to become the leading ODA provider in Central Asia (CA). ODA has served as a foreign policy tool and as the most significant tool for maintaining cooperation ties. Although the focus of Japan's ODA assistance over the years has been on East Asian countries, CA is growing to become another frontier for more proactive Japanese policies.

The Japan-supported initiatives of recent years tend to favor more pragmatic cooperation schemes. As is exemplified by water-related assistance in Uzbekistan and support for local capacity building in Kyrgyzstan, Japanese assistance of a more focused character can better contribute to development both in these societies and in the region in general. These types of initiatives can successfully complement government-to-government assistance schemes and Japanese investments into large scale projects. The focus on local communities will also ensure that beneficiaries of the Japanese assistance projects will include not only governmental institutions but also the general public at large.
A case–control study of the relationship between a passive second stage of labor and obstetric anal sphincter injuries
Authors: Gossett Dana R. , Deibel Philip , Lewicky‐Gaupp Christina
Published: November 2015

Objective

To estimate the relationship between a passive second stage of labor and obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS).

Methods

A retrospective, case–control study was undertaken of women who delivered at a tertiary‐care center in Chicago, IL, USA, between November 2005 and December 2012. Cases had sustained OASIS and were matched on the basis of parity with controls who had no OASIS. Data were obtained from an electronic repository and chart review. Participants with a passive second stage of labor lasting 60 minutes or more were deemed to have “labored down.” A logistic regression model to predict OASIS was created.

Results

Overall, 1629 cases were compared with 1312 controls. OASIS were recorded among 1452 (57.8%) of 2510 women who did not labor down compared with 169 (40.0%) of 423 women who labored down (P < 0.001). However, in binary logistic regression, the addition of laboring down to the model only increased the predictive accuracy from 80.1% to 80.7%.

Conclusion

When known risk factors for OASIS are accounted for, the effect of laboring down on perineal outcome is negligible.
Improving Medication Reconciliation compliance at admission
Authors: Almidani Eyad , Khadawardi Emad , Alshareef Turki , Hussain Ibrahim Bin , Almofada Saleh , Ham Ann Joo , Alqarni Abdulaziz , Alobari Rania , Bernardo Maria Cecilia , Rajab Mohammad Hasan
Published: October 2015

Background and objectives:

The objective of this research is to improve compli-ance of the medication reconciliation process at the time of patient admission in the Depart-ment of Pediatrics at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia using an innovative evidence-based approach.

Materials and methods:

Most of the recent efforts at our institution to revamp the medication reconciliation process have failed. Thus, we implemented an innovative evidence-based approach to improve the compliance of the reconciliation process at admission. This approach focused on the Department of Pediatrics at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC). We established specific educational and monitoring programs that were run over a two-month period, from June to July 2015. The educational program consisted of focused hands-on daily interactive training sessions presented to a small group of residents, i.e., 5 —6 residents per session, for a period of one week. One resident was identified as a ’’Super-User” to provide ongoing support for the other residents involved in the process. A close moni-toring process was also implemented, which included daily follow up and encouragement from three assigned consultants. In addition, periodic independent audit report results prepared by Healthcare Information Technology Affairs (HITA) were communicated to the Department of Pediatrics regarding physician compliance in the medication reconciliation process.

Results:

Physician compliance for admission medication reconciliation documentation in ICIS ranged from (0—15%) between the first quarter of 2012 and the first quarter 2015, we designated the official hospital audit for the first quarter of 2015 as a baseline audit report. We implemen-ted our initiative during the months of June and July 2015. During that time, there was a gradual improvement in the number of admission medication reconciliations reported by the indepen-dent audits of our general Pediatrics Ward (B1), which represents the majority of pediatric admissions. The 57% of 26 patients had medication reconciliation completed by the first report dated 16 June 2015. This percentage improved to 92% out of a total of 13 patients at the last report on 12 July 2015. This consistent improvement also occurred in other areas where pediat-ric patients were admitted including the B3-1 (from 88% to 90%), the NICU 1 (from 83% to 100%) and the NICU 2 (from 90% to 100%).

Conclusions:

By structuring and implementing intensive educational and monitoring programs, a marked improvement in the compliance of medication reconciliation at the time of admission for the pediatric patient population was achieved. We believe that our department-based results would be generalizable if a similar hospital-wide programme was to be rigorously implemented.
Incidence of cardiac implantable electronic device infections and migrations in Japan: Results from a 129 institute survey
Authors: Nakajima Hiroshi , Taki Masami
Published: November 2015

Background

We conducted a survey of the infection burden associated with the implantation of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in Japan.

Methods

The institutes were selected using annual device implantation data provided by Medtronic Japan Co., Ltd. The data sampling period was from January 1 to December 31, 2013. Institutes were classified into Group P, at which only pacemakers were implanted, and Group A, at which other CIEDs were implanted. Group P was further classified into three sub‐groups by implantation number. The infection rate was compared between groups using logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 129 of 138 institutes responded. The annual infection rate was 1.12% for overall CIEDs. The institute at which 15–29 pacemakers were implanted had a high infection rate (2.11%). No statistically significant difference was observed (adjusted p=0.1131). The overall migration rate was 0.50%. Complete removal of the CIED system was performed in 55.8% of patients who underwent implantation.

Conclusions

This survey was the first on CIED infection and migration in Japan. The CIED infection rate (1.12%) was similar to that previously reported. A high infection rate (2.77%) was observed in the infection experienced institutes.
Test‐Retest Reliability of the Self‐Reported Impairments in Persons With Late Effects of Polio (SIPP) Rating Scale
Authors: Brogårdh Christina , Lexell Jan
Published: October 2015

Background

A new 13‐item rating scale, the Self‐Reported Impairments in Persons with Late Effects of Polio (SIPP), has been developed. The SIPP has been analyzed using the Rasch method and has shown good construct validity and internal consistency. To establish its clinical utility, further evaluation of its psychometric properties is needed.

Objective

To evaluate the test‐retest reliability of the SIPP and to define limits for the smallest change that indicates a real change, both for a group of persons and a single individual.

Design

A postal survey.

Setting

University Hospital.

Participants

Fifty‐one persons (31 men and 20 women; mean age, 72 years) with clinically verified late effects of polio.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measurements

The participants completed the SIPP twice, 2 weeks apart. The response frequencies at test occasion 1 (T1) and test occasion 2 (T2) were calculated. Test‐retest reliability was analyzed using the percentage agreement of each item, the intraclass correlation coefficient, and the mean difference between the test occasions (đ), together with the 95% confidence intervals for đ, the standard error of measurement, the smallest real difference, and a Bland‐Altman plot.

Results

The percentage agreement (ie, the same scoring at both test occasions) was >70% for 10 of 13 items. The mean score (standard deviation) was 27.9 (5.7) points at T1 and 28.2 (6.0) points at T2, with no systematic difference between the test occasions. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.88, the standard error of measurement (the smallest change for a group of persons) was 2.0 points, and the smallest real difference (the smallest change for a single individual) was 5.6 points, respectively.

Conclusion

The SIPP is a reliable rating scale in persons with late effects of polio and can be used to evaluate effects of rehabilitation interventions and changes of perceived impairments over time both for a group of persons and for a single individual.
The Cambridge Introduction to Theatre and Literature of the Absurd
Authors: Bennett Michael Y.
Published: November 2015

Michael Y. Bennett's accessible Introduction explains the complex, multidimensional nature of the works and writers associated with the absurd - a label placed upon a number of writers who revolted against traditional theatre and literature in both similar and widely different ways. Setting the movement in its historical, intellectual and cultural contexts, Bennett provides an in-depth overview of absurdism and its key figures in theatre and literature, from Samuel Beckett and Harold Pinter to Tom Stoppard. Chapters reveal the movement's origins, development and present-day influence upon popular culture around the world, employing the latest research to this often challenging area of study in a balanced and authoritative approach. Essential reading for students of literature and theatre, this book provides the necessary tools to interpret and develop the study of a movement associated with some of the twentieth century's greatest and most influential cultural figures.
Languages in Contact
Authors: Lim Lisa , Ansaldo Umberto
Published: November 2015

Introducing new findings from popular culture, the globalised new economy and computer-mediated communication, this is a fascinating study of contact between languages in modern societies. Ansaldo and Lim bring together research on multilingualism, code-switching, language endangerment, and globalisation, into a comprehensive overview of world Englishes and creoles. Illustrated with a wide range of original examples from typologically diverse languages, including Sinitic, Autronesian, Dravidian and other non-Indo-European varieties, the book focuses on structural analyses of Asian ecologies and their relevance for current theories of contact phenomena. Full of new insights, it is essential reading for students and researchers across linguistics, culture and communication.
Spatial Analysis for the Social Sciences
Authors: Darmofal David
Published: November 2015

Many theories in the social sciences predict spatial dependence or the similarity of behaviors at neighboring locations. Spatial Analysis for the Social Sciences demonstrates how researchers can diagnose and model this spatial dependence and draw more valid inferences as a result. The book is structured around the well-known Galton's problem and presents a step-by-step guide to the application of spatial analysis. The book examines a variety of spatial diagnostics and models through a series of applied examples drawn from the social sciences. These include spatial lag models that capture behavioral diffusion between actors, spatial error models that account for spatial dependence in errors, and models that incorporate spatial heterogeneity in the effects of covariates. Spatial Analysis for the Social Sciences also examines advanced spatial models for time-series cross-sectional data, categorical and limited dependent variables, count data, and survival data.
Bishops, Authority and Community in Northwestern Europe, c.1050–1150
Authors: Ott John S.
Published: November 2015

This important new study of episcopal office and clerical identity in a socially and culturally dynamic region of medieval Europe examines the construction and representation of episcopal power and authority in the archdiocese of Reims during the sometimes turbulent century between 1050 and 1150. Drawing on a wide range of diplomatic, hagiographical, epistolary and other narrative sources, John S. Ott considers how bishops conceived of, and projected, their authority collectively and individually. In examining episcopal professional identities and notions of office, he explores how prelates used textual production and their physical landscapes to craft historical narratives and consolidate local and regional memories around ideals that established themselves as not only religious authorities but also cultural arbiters. This study reveals that, far from being reactive and hostile to cultural and religious change, bishops regularly grappled with and sought to affect, positively and to their advantage, new and emerging cultural and religious norms.
The New Immigration Federalism
Authors: Gulasekaram Pratheepan , Ramakrishnan S. Karthick
Published: November 2015

Since 2004, the United States has seen a flurry of state and local laws dealing with unauthorized immigrants. Though initially restrictionist, these laws have recently undergone a dramatic shift toward promoting integration. How are we to make sense of this new immigration federalism? What are its causes? And what are its consequences for the federal-state balance of power? In The New Immigration Federalism, Professors Pratheepan Gulasekaram and S. Karthick Ramakrishnan provide answers to these questions using a mix of quantitative, historical, and doctrinal legal analysis. In so doing they refute the popular 'demographic necessity' argument put forward by anti-immigrant activists and politicians. Instead, they posit that immigration federalism is rooted in a political process that connects both federal and subfederal actors: the Polarized Change Model. Their model captures not only the spread of restrictionist legislation but also its abrupt turnaround in 2012, projecting valuable insights for the future.