bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and Referral of Orthodontic Cases: An Institutional Survey among Dental Graduates
Authors: AlShahrani Ibrahim
Published: March 2014

General dentists play an important role in intercepting the progression of malocclusion. The right stage of referral to specialist orthodontist is considered key to the success of orthodontic treatment. The objective of this study was to assess the preparedness of fresh dental graduates in dealing with orthodontic patients in general dental practice. A total of 80 general dentists who had recently completed the BDS program formed the study group. They were asked to respond to a self-administered questionnaire consisting of case scenarios to evaluate their knowledge of Angles classification, occlusal characteristics, the ideal stage of treatment and need for referral to specialist orthodontist. The response rate was 75% (n = 60). 87% (n = 52) correctly identified the Angles Classification of the presented cases. 87% (n = 52) and 100% (n = 60) correctly identified overbite and over-jet cases. Cross bite and deviated midline was correctly identified by 68% (n = 41) and 65% (n = 39) of the respondents respectively while 93% (n = 56) diagnosed median diastema correctly. Almost all the respondents (97%) identified the cases which have to be referred to the orthodontist while, more than half (55%) did not know the ideal time to initiate orthodontic treatment. The graduates recognized their limits of personal competence and successfully identified the cases that need to be referred to the orthodontist. Proper emphasis should be placed on the ‘the ideal time of referral and initiation of treatment’ during undergraduate orthodontic training.

How to cite this article

AlShahrani I. Diagnosis and Referral of Orthodontic Cases: An Institutional Survey among Dental Graduates. World J Dent 2014;5(1):33-36.
Microbial Evaluation of a Single Subgingival Irrigation with Chlorhexidine and Benzydamine in Advanced Periodontitis
Authors: Wesley Swarnalatha J
Published: March 2014

Background

This study evaluated the microbial effects of a single subgingival irrigation of chlorhexidine and benzydamine in advanced periodontitis on a comparative basis in the absence of physical debridement using the microbiological parameter.

Methods

Patients who attended the Department of Periodontia, Madras Dental College were selected. The experimental site consisted of two teeth with Chronic Periodontitis, a pocket depth of 4 to 6 mm and a Gingival Index score of 2. The study has been designed to cover the following three groups:

Group I: Irrigated with physiological saline (Control group).

Group II: Irrigated with 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate solution.

Group III: Irrigated with 0.15% benzydamine hydrochloride solution.

A sample of 30 were selected, 10 samples in each group. The experimental sites of the three groups were assessed using the following Microbiological parameters: (1) spirochetes, (2) motile bacteria, (3) cocci, (4) other microorganisms.

Results

The microbiological analysis showed that the response of the Saline and Chlorhexidine with regard to the Spirochetes followed a concave pattern. But Benzydamine showed a slow tapering effect in annihilating the Spirochetes. In the case of Motile bacteria also the variation in the Saline was negligible and in the chlorhexidine group the trough occurred between first week and second week and then revived, whereas in Benzydamine alone there was no question of revival but the Motile bacteria followed the pattern of sine curve. With regard to Cocci though Saline showed good response it was not significant, whereas chlorhexidine and benzydamine recorded a highly appreciable response. In the case of other microorganisms Saline had no significant effect, whereas Chlorhexidine had significant effect at the end of 1 week and Benzydamine had a sea-saw effect throughout the different periods of time.

Conclusion

The subgingival action of Benzydamine can be favored and preferred to that of Chlorhexidine and Saline because of its sustained progressive response.

How to cite this article

Wesley SJ. Microbial Evaluation of a Single Subgingival Irrigation with Chlorhexidine and Benzydamine in Advanced Periodontitis. World J Dent 2014;5(1):37-41.
Impact of Estradiol Monitoring on the Prediction of Intrauterine Insemination Outcome
Authors: Atilgan Remzi , Ekinci Mustafa , Sapmaz Ekrem , Ozkan Zehra Sema
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the predictive value of estradiol levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration on intrauterine insemination success rate.

Materials and methods

The present study included 200 intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles performed between June 2011 and October 2012. All IUI cycles were preceded by ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins starting on cycle day 3. A single IUI was performed 24 to 36 hours after hCG administration. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to define the covariates of IUI success. The main outcome measure, the clinical pregnancy rate per cycle, was assessed according to the estradiol level.

Results

With LR ± 2 and AUC=0.73, ROC analysis revealed out the estradiol level as 465 pg/ml to predict the pregnancy with 60% sensitivity and 66% specificity. Binary logistic regression analysis identified the presence of estradiol levels higher than 465 pg/ml (p < 0.01, 95% CI = 0.147 – 0.687) and stimulation duration (p < 0.01, 95% CI = 0.201 – 0.705) as the covariates approached statistical significance for IUI success.

Conclusion

Estradiol level >465 pg/ml on the day of hCG administration might point out advanced outcome on mild ovarian stimulation combined with insemination.

How to cite this article

Atilgan R, Ekinci M, Sapmaz E, Ozkan ZS. Impact of Estradiol Monitoring on the Prediction of Intrauterine Insemination Outcome. Int J Infertility Fetal Med 2013;4(3):88-92.
Acardiac Acephalus with Single Umbilical Artery in Acardiac Twin
Authors: Govindraj Sampath Kumar , Thimmaiah Rajini
Published: March 2014

Twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence (acardiac twin) is one of the rare complications of multifetal gestation which is unique to monochorionic placentation. It affects about 1% of multifetal gestation and prevalence is one in 35,000 pregnancies. We are presenting a case of acardiac acephalus with ventricular hypertrophy and polyhydramnios of pump twin. Autopsy of acardiac twin was done and various anomalies associated with it were described. Acardiac twin showed anomalies consistent with VACTERL anomalies and single umbilical artery. This case is reported because of the rarity of presentation and to stress the importance of early diagnosis for the proper management of the case. This is taken as an opportunity to describe various modalities of treatment of acardiac twin.

How to cite this article

Muralidhar L, Govindraj SK, Venkatesh S, Thimmaiah R. Acardiac Acephalus with Single Umbilical Artery in Acardiac Twin. Int J Infertility Fetal Med 2013; 4(3):93-95.
A two-phase model for numerical simulation of debris flows
Authors: He S. , Liu W. , Ouyang C. , Li X.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Debris flows are multiphase, gravity-driven flows consisting of randomly dispersed interacting phases. The interaction between the solid phase and liquid phase plays a significant role on debris flow motion. This paper presents a new two-phase debris flow model based on the shallow water assumption and depth-average integration. The model employs the Mohr–Coulomb plasticity for the solid stress, and the fluid stress is modeled as a Newtonian viscous stress. The interfacial momentum transfer includes viscous drag, buoyancy and interaction force between solid phase and fluid phase. We solve numerically the one-dimensional model equations by a high-resolution finite volume scheme based on a Roe-type Riemann solver. The model and the numerical method are validated by using one-dimensional dam-break problem. The influences of volume fraction on the motion of debris flow are discussed and comparison between the present model and Pitman's model is presented. Results of numerical experiments demonstrate that viscous stress of fluid phase has significant effect in the process of movement of debris flow and volume fraction of solid phase significantly affects the debris flow dynamics.
Immunity Ratione Personae of Foreign Government Officials and Other Topics: The Sixty-Fifth Session of the International Law Commission
Authors: Murphy Sean D.
Published: March 2014

The International Law Commission held its sixty-fifth session in Geneva from May 6 to June 7, and from July 8 to August 9, 2013, under the chairmanship of Bernd H. Niehaus (Costa Rica). The Commission devoted most of the sixty-fifth session to discussing three topics: immunity of state officials from foreign criminal jurisdiction, subsequent agreements and subsequent practice in relation to the interpretation of treaties, and protection of persons in the event of disasters. Notably, the Commission provisionally adopted three draft articles and commentaries identifying three categories of senior governmental officials—heads of state, heads of government, and foreign ministers—as entitled to immunity ratione personae from foreign criminal jurisdiction for their public or private acts, an immunity that ceases once they leave office.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and membranous glomerulonephritis: A pregnancy-induced case
Authors: Golembiewska Edyta , Dutkiewicz Grażyna , Stepniewska Joanna , Bobrek-Lesiakowska Katarzyna , Przybyciński Jarosław , Kosiarkiewicz Anita , Urasinska Elżbieta , Domanski Maciej , Mituła Iza , Ciechanowski Kazimierz , Myslak Marek
Published: March 2014

The association of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and severe proteinuria is uncommon. The majority of such patients had already been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and present overlapping symptoms of these two diseases. We report a case of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) accompanied by severe proteinuria developed simultaneously during pregnancy. Clinical and serological data for SLE were negative. Kidney biopsy revealed features of chronic thrombotic microangiopathy and membranous glomerulonephritis.
Storage Time: Influence of Nano-ZnO and Soft-Sterilization on Biophysical and Quality Attributes of Canned Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata, TN 5-78)
Authors: Hama Moutaleb Oumarou , Amadou Issoufou , Amza Tidjani , Daou Cheikna , Zhang Min
Published: March 2014

Cowpea seeds can be cooked in the dried form, sprouted, or ground into flour. This study is to investigate effect of soft-sterilization and nano-ZnO treatment on canned cowpea (TN 5-78) biophysical and quality attributes during 10 months of storage. Cowpea was blanched, ultrasonicated with nano-ZnO solution 0.025% (w/v) added prior to canning at 110 ºC for 15 min and analyzed every 2 months up to 10 month at ambient storage. Total mold and yeast count were below the limits of detection for nano-ZnO treated samples and control over the storage period though, some colonies of mesophilic bacteria were observed in the untreated samples at the 8th and 10th month of storage. There are significant differences (P < 0.05) between the treated samples and untreated one at the 10th month of storage for the pea’s firmness. No significant differences was noticed between the samples from the initial analysis to the end of storage time for the leached solids percentage (P < 0.05). Moreover, slight change in protein content and pH values were also found. The overall acceptability score of nano-ZnO treated samples remained in a good range up to 10th month of storage whereas, untreated samples was under acceptation level. Therefore, ZnO nanoparticules combined with heat can be a possible alternative approach to can foods that the quality attributes are altered by conventional thermal sterilization.
User Empowerment and Audience Commodification in a Commercial Television Context
Authors: Jennes Iris , Pierson Jo , Van den Broeck Wendy
Published: March 2014

This paper aims to provide insights into the concept of ‘user empowerment’ in current –digital and connected- media industries. We start by defining empowerment as a concept rooted in certain research traditions that focus on user behaviour and capabilities in dealing with digital and connected technologies and the production, aggregation, distribution and consumption of content. We then oppose ‘user empowerment’ to ‘audience commodification’, a concept that highlights how the audience and its members are exploited by the media industry through their usage of digital and connected technologies. This research tradition typically looks at the meso-level of media usage and how it is embedded in the media industries. In light of this paper on media innovations, we then argue that the concepts of ‘empowerment’ and ‘commodification’ are strongly embedded in the underlying social imaginaries. This helps us to redefine ‘user empowerment’ and ‘audience commodification’ as interactive processes underlying innovation within the (commercial) media industry. We use the case of Flemish commercial television to demonstrate this hypothesis.
Weller et al., Twitter and Society
Authors: Holton Avery E.
Published: March 2014

Katrin Weller, Axel Bruns, Jean Burgess, Merja Mahrt, and Cornelius Puschmann Title: Twitter and Society Publisher: Peter Lang, 2014 ISBN: 978-1-4331-2169-2 447 pages
A capacitive CMOS–MEMS sensor designed by multi-physics simulation for integrated CMOS–MEMS technology
Authors: Konishi Toshifumi , Yamane Daisuke , Matsushima Takaaki , Masu Kazuya , Machida Katsuyuki , Toshiyoshi Hiroshi
Published: March 2014

This paper reports the design and evaluation results of a capacitive CMOS–MEMS sensor that consists of the proposed sensor circuit and a capacitive MEMS device implemented on the circuit. To design a capacitive CMOS–MEMS sensor, a multi-physics simulation of the electromechanical behavior of both the MEMS structure and the sensing LSI was carried out simultaneously. In order to verify the validity of the design, we applied the capacitive CMOS–MEMS sensor to a MEMS accelerometer implemented by the post-CMOS process onto a 0.35-µm CMOS circuit. The experimental results of the CMOS–MEMS accelerometer exhibited good agreement with the simulation results within the input acceleration range between 0.5 and 6 G (1 G = 9.8 m/s2), corresponding to the output voltages between 908.6 and 915.4 mV, respectively. Therefore, we have confirmed that our capacitive CMOS–MEMS sensor and the multi-physics simulation will be beneficial method to realize integrated CMOS–MEMS technology.
Clinical Dosimetric Study of Three Radiotherapy Techniques for Postoperative Breast Cancer: Helical Tomotherapy, IMRT, and 3D-CRT
Authors: Zhou G-X. , Xu S-P. , Dai X-K. , Ju Z-J. , Gong H-S. , Xie C-B. , Yin L-M. , Yang J.
Published: March 2014

This paper is to investigate the dosimetric characteristics of Helical Tomotherapy (HT), step-and-shoot intensity-modulated radiation therapy (SaS-IMRT) and three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) for the postoperative breast cancer as well as their dosimetric comparison of the normal tissues. CT images of 10 postoperative patients with early stage breast cancer were transferred into HT, SaS-IMRT and 3D-CRT planning systems respectively after the target region and normal tissues were outlined by the same physician to assure the contour consistency. Each prescribed dose for three different modalities of plans was given to a total of 50 Gy in 25 fractions. Doses and irradiated volumes in heart, lungs, as well as conformity index (CI) and homogeneity index (HI) were evaluated for detailed comparison. All three plans showed appropriate coverage for the prescribed target dose in the dosimetric comparison. The CI in HT and SaS-IMRT as well as 3D-CRT was 0.68 ± 0.12, 0.58 ± 0.08 and 0.40 ± 0.08, respectively. The HI were 1.10 ± 0.03, 1.14 ± 0.02 and 1.17 ± 0.04, which appeared intergroup significant differences (p < 0.05). V5, V10, as well as V20 of the heart were smallest in 3D-CRT than HT and SaS-IMRT. V5 of the ipsilateral lung was the smallest in 3D-CRT than HT and SaS-IMRT (p < 0.05); However, V20 and V30 were smaller in HT and SaS-IMRT than 3D-CRT (p < 0.05). V5 of the contralateral lung was the smallest in 3D-CRT than other groups, with V10~V30 were basically similar in numeric values with not obvious discrepancy. Comparing with SaS-IMRT and 3D-CRT, HT technique in treating breast cancer had the best conformity and homogeneity index as well as steepest dose gradient due to its highly modulated beamlets with rotational technique. The heart volume irradiated was the smallest in conventional 3D-CRT, with SaS-IMRT was the largest among the three techniques, as expected. The volume of the contralateral lung irradiated was the smallest in 3D-CRT than other groups. V5 of the ipsilateral lung was the smallest in 3D-CRT than other two groups. V10~V30 in HT and SaS-IMRT were similar and better than 3D-CRT dosimetrically. We conclude that HT technique had advantages over SaS-IMRT and 3D-CRT based on the dosimetric comparison in this study, especially in the high dose region of ipsilateral lung, target homogeneity and dose uniformity.
First Palmer and Millstone Hill midlatitude conjugate observation of thermospheric winds
Authors: Wu Qian , Noto John , Kerr Robert , Kapali Sudha , Riccobono Juanita , Wang Wenbin , Talaat Elsayed R.
Published: March 2014

The first midlatitude conjugate thermospheric wind observations in the American sector showed various degrees of conjugacy between Palmer (64°S, 64°W, magnetic latitude (MLAT) 50°S) and Millstone Hill (42.82°N, 71.5°W, MLAT 53°N) under three different geomagnetic conditions (recovery after a substorm, moderately active, and quiet). The agreement with the National Center for Atmospheric Research's Thermosphere Ionosphere Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIEGCM) simulations also varies with the geomagnetic activity level. During substorm recovery, the observations at Palmer (PA) and Millstone Hill (MH) both showed strong westward zonal winds, which the standard TIEGCM greatly underestimated. Inadequate ion convection pattern size and lack of effect from Subauroral Polarization Streams (SAPS) may be the cause of the large discrepancy. The TIEGCM with a SAPS model produced stronger westward zonal winds near PA but did not change the zonal wind near MH. The empirical SAPS model needs further refinements. In general, there is better conjugacy with moderate geomagnetic activity levels. The TIEGCM also agrees better with the observations. Under geomagnetically quiet conditions, the meridional winds appear to be less conjugate. The agreement between the observations and model is reasonable. Optical conjugate observations are severely limited by the seasons and weather conditions in the two hemispheres. Yet they are necessary to understanding the thermospheric dynamics in the subauroral region and its relationship with geomagnetic activity levels. The comparisons with TIEGCM are necessary for future model improvements.
The origin of spectral resonance structures of the ionospheric Alfvén resonator. Single high‐altitude reflection or resonant cavity excitation?
Authors: Fedorov E. , Schekotov A. , Hobara Y. , Nakamura R. , Yagova N. , Hayakawa M.
Published: March 2014

A common view is that spectral maxima in observed spectral resonance structures (SRS) of ionospheric Alfvén resonator (IAR) at frequencies f<5 Hz are the signature of resonance frequencies of the IAR. We have studied not only spectra but also waveforms of magnetic fluctuations at IAR frequencies registered at Moshiri station (Japan) and have found that there exist two kinds of signals. The dominant type of signal is a pair of pulses which is caused by an initial exciting impulse and accompanied by a single reflection from the top boundary of the IAR. In the absence of reflection from the lower ionosphere, such signals are not resonant and hence are not caused by IAR excitation. The minority of cases are trains of three or more pulses separated by a nearly constant time interval reflected from both IAR boundaries. We have found that different kinds of signals in time domain may correspond to similar comb‐shaped Fourier spectra. So different kinds of signals in time domain practically cannot be distinguished on the basis of their Fourier spectra. We have calculated waveforms and SRS structures of the magnetic field oscillations generated by a model lightning discharge and IAR resonant frequencies. Calculated IAR resonance frequencies can be in disagreement with those of spectral maxima of pulse trains. Then, an analysis of signal waveforms in time domain is highly required to estimate IAR resonance frequencies.
Validation of precipitation retrievals over land from satellite‐based passive microwave sensors
Authors: Tang Ling , Tian Yudong , Lin Xin
Published: March 2014

Precipitation retrievals from spaceborne passive microwave (PMW) radiometers are the backbone of modern satellite‐based global precipitation data sets. The error characteristics in these individual retrievals directly affect the merged end products and applications but have not been systematically studied. This paper focuses on extensive and systematic validation of PMW precipitation retrievals and quantification of their error characteristics. Retrievals from 12 PMW radiometers were evaluated and intercompared at instantaneous scale (5 min) over continental United States. These precipitation‐sensing radiometers include both imagers (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Microwave Imager, Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for the Earth Observing System, Special Sensor Microwave Imager, and Special Sensor Microwave Imager/Sounder) and sounders (advanced microwave sounding unit‐B and Microwave Humidity Sounders). A high‐resolution ground radar‐based data set over the continental United States was used as the ground reference data. The high spatial and temporal resolution of the reference data allows collocation within 5 min and relatively more precise comparison with the satellite overpasses. Our results show that PMW sensor retrievals exhibit fairly systematic biases depending on season and precipitation intensity, with overestimates in summer at moderate to high precipitation rates and underestimates in winter at low and moderate precipitation rates. Retrievals from the microwave imagers have notably better performance than those from the sounders. The latter tend to have a narrower dynamic range, higher biases, and random errors.
The thermal conductivity of Earth's lower mantle
Authors: Tang Xiaoli , Ntam Moses C. , Dong Jianjun , Rainey Emma S. G. , Kavner Abby
Published: March 2014

We assess the thermal conductivity of the Earth's lower mantle anchored on our first‐principles calculations of lattice thermal conductivity of MgSiO3 perovskite. Our calculations agree with measurements of iron‐free perovskite at ambient conditions and show a lower pressure dependence compared with other recent calculations. In addition, we show that the effect of iron on the lattice thermal conductivity of silicate perovskite is likely to be small at high temperatures. To provide an assessment of thermal conductivity throughout the lower mantle, we reevaluate existing high‐pressure optical absorption data to constrain an upper bound radiative contribution to diffusive heat transfer and examine a composite model for combining thermal conductivity of oxide and perovskite phases in the lower mantle. We find that the overall thermal conductivity of the lower mantle is approximately constant between 2.5 and 3.5 W/m/K. These values imply that the mantle has a blanketing effect on heat flow across the core‐mantle boundary.
An Effective Approach for the Development of Reliable YBCO Bulk Cryomagnets with High Trapped Field Performances
Authors: Kenfaui Driss , Sibeud Pierre‐Frédéric , Louradour Eric , Chaud Xavier , Noudem Jacques G.
Published: March 2014

Widespread use of YBa2Cu3O7‐δ (Y123) bulk superconductors as source of strong magnetic fields requires development of high‐performance materials sufficiently reliable with improved thermal transfer ability. An effective approach based primarily on the growth of bulk Y123 single domains comprising a holes‐network to diminish the oxygen diffusion paths is reported here, as well as their progressive annealing at high temperature under oxygen pressure to reduce undue stresses and processing time. Finely, it aims to stimulate the thermal exchange inside the superconductor and compensate for induced magnetic stresses during the field‐trapping process. The approach brings considerable time and energy savings, and turns out to knock down barriers having stymied hitherto the use of Y123 bulk superconductors for engineering applications. Indeed, it enables the achievement of a pore‐free and crack‐free microstructure yielding marked fracture toughness and promoting large size persistent current loops, thereby boosting the trapped field performances. The fostering of the internal thermal exchange leads the maximum trapped field Bmax to shift to higher temperatures by up to 14 K. A value Bmax of 6.34 T is attained at 17 K on ≈16 mm‐diameter reinforced pellet (disk area s = 1.99 cm2), resulting in an outstanding field density Bmax/s=3.19 Tcm−2.
Tetrahydro[5]helicene‐Based Nanoparticles for Structure‐Dependent Cell Fluorescent Imaging
Authors: Li Meng , Feng Li‐Heng , Lu Hai‐Yan , Wang Shu , Chen Chuan‐Feng
Published: March 2014

Four new fluorescent dyes containing tetrahydro[5]helicene moiety characterized by three‐primary emission colors (blue‐green‐red) are designed and synthesized, and their structures are characterized by NMR, MS, and single crystal X‐ray crystallography. Organic nanoparticles based on the fluorescent dyes are then prepared by re‐precipitation method, and their photophysical properties are investigated. These nanoparticles retain the strong emissions of the organic dyes, and multicolor nanoparticles were also prepared by simply tuning the ratios of the three‐primary colors dyes. These organic nanoparticles exhibit low cytotoxicity, good photostability, and high quantum yields. Moreover, the nanoparticles can also be applied in the cell fluorescence imaging. Especially, it is interestingly found that the stained regions of these nanoparticles from membrane to cytoplasm for HeLa cells show obvious structure‐dependent properties. This strategy provides a new perspective to fluorescence probe by molecular design for specific location imaging of living cells.
Influence of Biodopants on PEDOT Biomaterial Polymers: Using QCM‐D to Characterize Polymer Interactions with Proteins and Living Cells
Authors: Molino Paul J. , Yue Zhilian , Zhang Binbin , Tibbens Anthony , Liu Xiao , Kapsa Robert. M. I. , Higgins Michael J. , Wallace Gordon G.
Published: March 2014

Organic conducting polymers (OCPs) are currently the subject of intense research in the area of biomaterials and bioelectronics. Of the OCPs, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) has attracted significant interest, however there has been little work on investigating the incorporation of biological compounds as the dopant species in the polymer which are aimed at enhancing the biocompatibility and biofunctionality of the material. Here, we incorporate the biological dopants dextran sulphate, chondroitin sulphate, and alginate, into PEDOT polymers and investigate their influence on a suite of physicochemical and electrochemical properties. We employ QCM‐D to study the mass of adsorption and the viscoelastic properties of the important extracellular matrix proteins fibronectin and collagen. Furthermore, we use QCM‐D to study the adhesion of PC12 neural cells to the PEDOT‐biodopant polymers with and without an adsorbed protein conditioning layer. QCM‐D was found to be an excellent tool with which to study conducting polymer–biological interactions, with this report the first time that QCM‐D has been used to study cell interactions with conducting polymer biomaterials.
Side‐Chain Engineering for Fine‐Tuning of Energy Levels and Nanoscale Morphology in Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Jaewon , Kim Min , Kang Boseok , Jo Sae Byeok , Kim Heung Gyu , Shin Jisoo , Cho Kilwon
Published: March 2014

A series of four polymers containing benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene (BDT) and 5,6‐difluoro‐4,7‐diiodobenzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (2FBT), PBDT2FBT, PBDT2FBT‐O, PBDT2FBT‐T, and PBDT2FBT‐T‐O, are synthesized with their four different side chains, alkyl‐, alkoxy‐, alkylthienyl‐, and alkoxythienyl. Experimental results and theoretical calculations show that the molecular tuning of the side chains simultaneously influences the solubilities, energy levels, light absorption, surface tension, and intermolecular packing of the resulting polymers by altering their molecular coplanarity and electron affinity. The polymer solar cell (PSC) based on a blend of PBDT2FBT‐T/[6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) exhibits the best photovoltaic performance of the four PBDT2FBT derivatives, with a high open‐circuit voltage of 0.98 V and a power conversion efficiency of 6.37%, without any processing additives, post‐treatments, or optical spacers. Furthermore, PBDT2FBT‐T‐O, which has a novel side chain alkoxythienyl, showed promising properties with the most red‐shifted absorption and strong intermolecular packing property in solid state. This study provides insight into molecular design and fabrication strategies via structural tuning of the side chains of conjugated polymers for achieving highly efficient PSCs.
New studies of second and fourth digit ratio as a morphogenetic trait in subjects with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Rivas M.P. , Moreira L.M.A. , Santo L.D.E. , Marques A.C.S.S. , El‐Hani C.N. , Toralles M.B.P.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a disease that occurs during fetal development and can lead to virilization in females or death in newborn males if not discovered early in life. Because of this there is a need to seek morphological markers in order to help diagnose the disease. In order to test the hypothesis that prenatal hormones can affect the sexual dimorphic pattern 2D:4D digit ratio in individual with CAH, the aim of this study was to compare the digit ratio in female and male patients with CAH and control subjects.

Methods

The 2D:4D ratios in both hands of 40 patients (31 females—46, XX, and 9 males—46, XY) were compared with the measures of control individuals without CAH (100 males and 100 females).

Results

Females with CAH showed 2D:4D ratios typical of male controls (0.950 and 0.947) in both hands (P < 0.001). In CAH males the left hand 2D:4D ratio (0.983) was statistically different from that of male controls (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These finding support the idea that sexual dimorphism in skeletal development in early fetal life is associated with differences between the exposure to androgens in males and females, and significant differences associated with adrenal hyperplasia. Although the effects of prenatal androgens on skeletal developmental are supported by numerous studies, further investigation is yet required to clarify the disease and establish the digit ratio as a biomarker for CAH. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:559–561, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A three generation X‐linked family with Kabuki syndrome phenotype and a frameshift mutation in KDM6A
Authors: Lederer Damien , Shears Debbie , Benoit Valérie , Verellen‐Dumoulin Christine , Maystadt Isabelle
Published: March 2014

Kabuki syndrome is a rare malformation syndrome characterized by a typical facial appearance, skeletal anomalies, cardiac malformation, and mild to moderate intellectual disability. In 55–80% of patients with Kabuki syndrome, a mutation in MLL2 is identified. Recently, eight patients with Kabuki syndrome and a mutation in KDM6A were described. In this report, we describe two brothers with a mutation in KDM6A inherited from their mother and maternal grandmother. The two boys have Kabuki‐like phenotypes whereas the mother and grandmother present with attenuated phenotypes. This family represents the first instance of hereditary X‐linked Kabuki syndrome. We present a short literature review of the patients described with a mutation in KDM6A. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hyperphosphatemic familial tumoral calcinosis: Response to acetazolamide and postulated mechanisms
Authors: Finer Gal , Price Heather E. , Shore Richard M. , White Kenneth E. , Langman Craig B.
Published: March 2014

Hyperphosphatemic familial tumoral calcinosis (HFTC) is characterized by enhanced renal phosphate absorption, hyperphosphatemia, and tumor‐like extraosseous calcifications due to inactivating mutations in FGF23 or associated proteins. Surgical excision is needed when low phosphate diet and phosphate binders are ineffective. Sporadic reports have supported acetazolamide use. We report on a 7‐year‐old African American boy who presented with severe HFTC requiring numerous surgical excisions. Tumors continued to appear and others reoccurred despite phosphate restriction and sevelamer carbonate. At the age of 9.5 years, acetazolamide (40 mg/kg/day) was added and resulted in mild metabolic acidosis (bicarbonate 25.3 mEq/L vs. 21.4 mEq/L, P < 0.001; serum pH 7.38 vs. 7.31, P = 0.013, pre‐ and post‐acetazolamide, respectively) but no change in tubular reabsorption of phosphate (TRP) (96.9% vs. 95.9%, P = 0.34) or serum phosphate (6.6 mg/dl vs. 6.9 mg/dl, P = 0.52 pre‐ and post‐acetazolamide, respectively). Following the initiation of acetazolamide therapy, the patient experienced significant improvement in disease course as indicated by resolution of localized bone pain, cessation of tumor formation, and no tumor recurrence. Despite mild metabolic acidosis, our patient had improved linear growth and did not develop any other side effects related to therapy. Intact FGF23 remained abnormally low throughout disease course, while C‐terminal FGF23 increased with acetazolamide. We conclude that acetazolamide can control severe HFTC by inducing mild metabolic acidosis despite no change in serum phosphate or TRP. This effect may be exerted though improved calcium–phosphate complex solubility and increased FGF23 locally. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A cryptic familial rearrangement of 11p15.5, involving both imprinting centers, in a family with a history of short stature
Authors: Brown Lindsay A. , Rupps Rosemarie , Peñaherrera Maria S. , Robinson Wendy P. , Patel Millan S. , Eydoux Patrice , Boerkoel Cornelius F.
Published: March 2014

Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation, dysmorphic facial features and body asymmetry. Both hypomethylation of the telomeric imprinting control region 1 (ICR1) at 11p15.5 and maternal duplication of 11p15.5 have been implicated in the etiology of this disorder. Here we report the origin and segregation of the first reported between‐arm intrachromosomal insertion of 11p15.5 that encompasses both ICR1 and ICR2 in a multigenerational family with a history of short stature. One (or any odd number) crossover within the centromeric segment during meiosis would produce recombinant chromosomes; one with a duplication of the inserted segment and the other a deletion. In this 4‐generation family, there were six instances of transmission of the recombinant chromosome with duplication of the11p15.5 segment, which leads to a SRS phenotype when maternally inherited and a Beckwith–Wiedemann phenotype when paternally transmitted. The size of the duplicated region is ∼1.9 Mb as determined by microarray analysis. This study provides further evidence that maternally inherited duplications of 11p15.5 result in a SRS phenotype that includes short stature and other variable features. The methylation status of the extra copy of the duplicated region of 11p15.5 ultimately predicts the resulting phenotype. Thus, the different phenotype based on parental mode of transmission is of importance in the genetic counseling of these patients. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chiral β‐Lactam Synthesis through the Enantioselective Reduction of Iminocyclobutenones and the Thermal Rearrangement of Aminocyclobutenones
Authors: Hachiya Iwao , Ito Akinori , Shimizu Makoto
Published: March 2014

Chiral β‐lactam synthesis was achieved through the enantioselective reduction of iminocyclobutenones catalyzed by a chiral phosphoric acid and the subsequent thermal rearrangement of chiral aminocyclobutenones in the presence of appropriate amines.
Sinonasal mucosal melanoma: 20‐year experience at a tertiary referral center
Authors: Tajudeen Bobby A. , Vorasubin Nopawan , Sanaiha Yas , Palma‐Diaz Miguel Fernando , Suh Jeffrey D. , Wang Marilene B.
Published: March 2014

Background

Sinonasal melanoma (SNM) is a rare cancer with extremely poor prognosis. Detecting melanoma on frozen section has historically been considered to be unreliable. A review of cases of sinonasal melanoma treated at a tertiary referral center was conducted to analyze treatment outcomes and identify prognostic factors for survival. In addition, an investigation was performed correlating sinonasal melanoma on frozen section and permanent analysis.

Methods

An institutional review board–approved search of the pathology database for cases of primary sinonasal melanoma treated between 1991 and 2011 was performed. Fourteen cases were identified and the medical charts were reviewed.

Results

Eleven patients had tumors arising from the nasal cavity, 2 arose from the maxillary sinus, and 1 from the ethmoid sinuses. Mean duration of follow‐up was 20.7 (range, 1.4 to 84.5) months. Overall, 5‐year recurrence‐free survival and overall survival was 23% and 35%, respectively. All patients had surgical resection with intent for cure and all but 1 patient had adjuvant therapy. Survival analysis showed that positive margin status (log rank p = 0.031) and the presence of perineural/lymphovascular invasion (log rank p = 0.021) negatively affected recurrence‐free survival and overall survival, respectively. Nine cases had evaluation of intraoperative frozen sections with 32 total sections submitted for analysis. When compared with final pathology, there was a 0% false negative rate.

Conclusion

Based on this series, positive margins and the presence of perineural/lymphovascular invasion are negative predictors of survival. In addition, intraoperative frozen section analysis of sinonasal mucosal melanoma correlates well with final pathology.
Single Crystals Popping Under UV Light: A Photosalient Effect Triggered by a [2+2] Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Medishetty Raghavender , Husain Ahmad , Bai Zhaozhi , Runčevski Tomče , Dinnebier Robert E. , Naumov Panče , Vittal Jagadese J.
Published: March 2014

The extremely rare examples of dynamic single crystals where excitation by light or heat induces macroscopic motility present not only a visually appealing demonstration of the utility of molecular materials for conversion of energy to work, but they also provide a unique opportunity to explore the mechanistic link between collective molecular processes and their consequences at a macroscopic level. Here, we report the first example of a photosalient effect (photoinduced leaping) observed with crystals of three coordination complexes which is induced by a [2+2] photocycloaddition reaction. Unlike a plethora of other dimerization reactions, when exposed to even weak UV light, single crystals of these materials burst violently, whereby they are propelled to travel several millimeters. The results point to a multistep mechanism where the strain energy that has been accumulated during the dimerization triggers a rapid structure transformation which ultimately results in crystal disintegration.
Copper‐Catalyzed Electrophilic Amination of Heteroarenes and Arenes by CH Zincation
Authors: McDonald Stacey L. , Hendrick Charles E. , Wang Qiu
Published: March 2014

Direct amination of heteroarenes and arenes has been achieved in a one‐pot CH zincation/copper‐catalyzed electrophilic amination procedure. This amination method provides an efficient and rapid approach to access a diverse range of heteroaromatic and aromatic amines including those previously inaccessible using CH amination methods. The mild reaction conditions and good functional‐group compatibility demonstrate its great potential for the synthesis of important and complex amines.
Preparation and characterization of low environmental humidity sensitive ionic liquid polymer electrolytes
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Xiang Jun , Hu Zeyu , Lei Jingxin , Zhou Changlin
Published: March 2014

Methyl 3‐(3‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)imidazole‐1‐yl)propanoate chloride salt (IL‐Cl), methyl 3‐(3‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)imidazole‐1‐yl)propanoate bromate salt (IL‐Br), and their derivatives modified by polyethylene glycol (PEG) through ester‐exchange reaction (IL‐PEGs) were synthesized. First, the properties of those materials, especially their conductivity, have been extensively studied. Second, using the IL‐PEG with the highest conductivity as a plasticizer and electrolyte, a series of gel polymer electrolytes were successfully fabricated from polyurethane, poly‐1,4‐butylene adipate glycol 2000, and IL‐PEGs by melting blends with different mass ratios in a Haake torque rheometer. The surface morphology, thermal properties, and the surface resistivity of gel polymer electrolytes were studied by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and surface resistivity test, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy pictures showed that the surface of polymer electrolyte is smoother than that without added IL‐PEGs. Thermogravimetric analysis results revealed that the polymer electrolytes will not decompose when the processing temperature is below 275°C. It was found that the surface resistivity of polymer electrolytes can be below 109 Ω, showing a good antistatic property, and it changes slightly as the relative humidity decreases from 40% to 0.1%, indicting that the material has low humidity sensitivity. This study is a new demonstration and development in ionic liquid based polymer electrolyte. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40675.
Compressive and thermal characterization of syntactic foams containing hollow silicon carbide particles with porous shell
Authors: Labella Matthew , Shunmugasamy Vasanth Chakravarthy , Strbik Oliver M. , Gupta Nikhil
Published: March 2014

Silicon carbide hollow particle (SiCHS) reinforced vinyl ester matrix syntactic foams are prepared and characterized for compressive properties and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Two types of SiCHS were utilized in 60 vol % to prepare syntactic foams. These SiCHS had ratio of inner to outer radius of 0.91 and 0.84 for the thin and thick walled particles. The specific compressive strength values were 33.4 and 38.8 kPa/kg/m3 and the specific compressive modulus values were 0.8 MPa/kg/m3 and 0.6 MPa/kg/m3 for the thin and thick walled SiCHS‐filled syntactic foams, respectively. The shell of the hollow particles contained microporous voids, and the porosity was estimated as 16.6% and 24.8% in the walls of the thin and thick walled particles, respectively. The shell porosity adversely affected the specific compressive strength and the modulus of the syntactic foam. However, the SiCHS‐filled syntactic foams exhibited low CTE values (26.7 and 15.9 × 10−6/°C). These CTE values were 65.1% and 79.3% lower than the CTE of the neat resin. Such properties can be useful for applications where syntactic foams are exposed to high temperatures and dimensional stability is important. A theoretical model is used to estimate the porosity level in the SiC shells and estimate the effective mechanical properties of the porous SiC material that forms the particle shell. Such analysis can help in using the models as predictive tools to estimate the mechanical properties of syntactic foams. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40689.
Citrulline‐Specific Th1 Cells Are Increased in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Their Frequency Is Influenced by Disease Duration and Therapy
Authors: James Eddie A. , Rieck Mary , Pieper Jennifer , Gebe John A. , Yue Betty B. , Tatum Megan , Peda Melissa , Sandin Charlotta , Klareskog Lars , Malmström Vivianne , Buckner Jane H.
Published: March 2014

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is thought to be a T cell–mediated disease, based on its strong association with HLA class II alleles, clinical responsiveness to T cell–directed therapies, and the presence of CD4+ T cells in rheumatoid joints. The presence of anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs) in RA serum and the association of these antibodies with HLA–DR4 alleles implicate citrulline‐specific autoreactive T cells in the development and progression of RA. The goal of this study was to determine the characteristics and specificity of autoreactive T cell responses in RA.

Methods

We developed a panel of HLA–DRB1*04:01 tetramers, selecting citrullinated peptides from synovial antigens and verifying their immunogenicity in DRB1*04:01‐transgenic mice. Seven tetramers were used to examine the ex vivo frequency and surface phenotype of citrulline‐specific (Cit‐specific) T cells in patients with RA and healthy subjects with DRB1*04:01 haplotypes, using a magnetic enrichment procedure.

Results

Cit‐specific T cells were detectable in peripheral blood samples from both healthy subjects and RA patients. In comparison to healthy subjects, RA patients had significantly higher frequencies of Cit‐specific T cells, and a greater proportion of these cells displayed a Th1 memory phenotype. Among RA patients, the frequency of Cit‐specific T cells was highest within the first 5 years after diagnosis of RA and was decreased in patients taking biologic agents, irrespective of disease duration.

Conclusion

These findings link the presence of ACPAs in RA with Th1 cells specific for citrullinated epitopes and provide tools for disease‐specific immunomonitoring of autoreactive T cells.
Interleukin‐23 Mediates the Intestinal Response to Microbial β‐1,3‐Glucan and the Development of Spondyloarthritis Pathology in SKG Mice
Authors: Benham Helen , Rehaume Linda M. , Hasnain Sumaira Z. , Velasco Jared , Baillet Athan C. , Ruutu Merja , Kikly Kristine , Wang Ran , Tseng Hsu‐Wen , Thomas Gethin P. , Brown Matthew A. , Strutton Geoffrey , McGuckin Michael A. , Thomas Ranjeny
Published: March 2014

Objective

Spondyloarthritides (SpA) occur in 1% of the population and include ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and arthropathy of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with characteristic spondylitis, arthritis, enthesitis, and IBD. Genetic studies implicate interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) receptor signaling in the development of SpA and IBD, and IL‐23 overexpression in mice is sufficient for enthesitis, driven by entheseal‐resident T cells. However, in genetically prone individuals, it is not clear where IL‐23 is produced and how it drives the SpA syndrome, including IBD or subclinical gut inflammation of AS. Moreover, it is unclear why specific tissue involvement varies between patients with SpA. We undertook this study to determine the location of IL‐23 production and its role in SpA pathogenesis in BALB/c ZAP‐70W163C–mutant (SKG) mice injected intraperitoneally with β‐1,3‐glucan (curdlan).

Methods

Eight weeks after curdlan injection in wild‐type or IL‐17A−/− SKG or BALB/c mice, pathology was scored in tissue sections. Mice were treated with anti–IL‐23 or anti–IL‐22. Cytokine production and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were determined in affected organs.

Results

In curdlan‐treated SKG mice, arthritis, enthesitis, and ileitis were IL‐23 dependent. Enthesitis was specifically dependent on IL‐17A and IL‐22. IL‐23 was induced in the ileum, where it amplified ER stress, goblet cell dysfunction, and proinflammatory cytokine production. IL‐17A was pathogenic, while IL‐22 was protective against ileitis. IL‐22+CD3− innate‐like cells were increased in lamina propria mononuclear cells of ileitis‐resistant BALB/c mice, which developed ileitis after curdlan injection and anti–IL‐22.

Conclusion

In response to systemic β‐1,3‐glucan, intestinal IL‐23 provokes local mucosal dysregulation and cytokines driving the SpA syndrome, including IL‐17/IL‐22–dependent enthesitis. Innate IL‐22 production promotes ileal tolerance.