bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shelf‐life of fresh blueberries coated with quinoa protein/chitosan/sunflower oil edible film
Authors: Abugoch Lilian , Tapia Cristián , Plasencia Dora , Pastor Ana , Castro‐Mandujano Olivio , López Luis , Escalona Victor H
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate quinoa protein (Q), chitosan (CH) and sunflower oil (SO) as edible film material as well as the influence of this coating in extending the shelf‐life of fresh blueberries stored at 4 °C and 75% relative humidity. These conditions were used to simulate the storage conditions in supermarkets and represent adverse conditions for testing the effects of the coating. The mechanical, barrier, and structural properties of the film were measured. The effectiveness of the coating in fresh blueberries (CB) was evaluated by changes in weight loss, firmness, color, molds and yeast count, pH, titratable acidity, and soluble solids content.

RESULTS

The tensile strength and elongation at break of the edible film were 0.45 ± 0.29 MPa and 117.2% ± 7%, respectively. The water vapor permeability was 3.3 × 10−12 ± 4.0 × 10−13 g s−1 m−1 Pa−1. In all of the color parameters CB presented significant differences. CB had slight delayed fruit ripening as evidenced by higher titratable acidity (0.3–0.5 g citric acid 100 g−1) and lower pH (3.4–3.6) than control during storage; however, it showed reduced firmness (up to 38%).

CONCLUSION

The use of Q/CH/SO as a coating in fresh blueberries was able to control the growth of molds and yeasts during 32 days of storage, whereas the control showed an increasing of molds and yeast, between 1.8 and 3.1 log cycles (between 20 and 35 days). © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Facile and robust dual interaction modification of hexadecyldimethyl amine magnetic nanoparticles for the ultrasensitive analysis of perfluorinated compounds in environmental water
Authors: Liang Xiaotong , Zou Ying , Liu Shengquan , Chen Chunyan , Wang Jianping , Hu Huiping , Yao Shouzhuo
Published: February 2015

In this work, a novel extraction and enrichment technique based on hexadecyldimethyl amine functionalized magnetic nanoparticles has been successfully developed for the preconcentration and ultrasensitive detection of perfluorinated compounds in environmental water samples with high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. As a novel surfactant, hexadecyldimethyl amine functionalized on magnetic nanoparticles was realized through one‐step facile and robust quaterization reaction, greatly superior to previous multiple‐step and unstable modification. The functional nanoparticles of homogeneous nanospheres and excellent magnetic properties were characterized with scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction patterns, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry. Dual mechanisms of both hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions were simultaneously introduced for anionic perfluorinated compounds effective enrichment. Under optimized extraction conditions, satisfactory precision and accuracy for anionic perfluorinated compounds analysis were achieved with good linear ranging from 0.5 to 20 ng/L, as well as fascinating sensitivity with low limits of detection up to 3.0 × 10−2–5.0 × 10−2 ng/L. High preconcentration efficiency and extraction recoveries ranged from 81.04–103.2% with relative standard deviations (n = 5) less than 10% have also been realized. Thereby, our proposed method is convenient and efficient for enrichment, exhibiting good application prospect in future environmental perfluorinated compounds analysis.
Separation and identification of oligomeric ethyl silicates by liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhou Xiuli , Wan Qian‐Hong
Published: February 2015

Reversed‐phase liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry was used to study the molecular structures of components and molar mass distributions in ethyl silicate‐40, a versatile liquid precursor for silicon‐based materials. Identity testing by standard spectroscopic techniques showed that a commercial sample of ethyl silicate‐40 was composed of linear/branched ethoxysiloxane oligomers with the silicon atoms ranging from 2 to 12 together with minor monocyclic species. Analysis of the sample by liquid chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection resulted in an elution profile consisting of a series of peak clusters. Peak identification showed that the linear/branched homologous series of oligomers were eluted in the order of increasing number of silicon atoms in the molecules and the time duration (width) of the resulting peak clusters increased in the same fashion corresponding to increasing number of geometric isomers. In addition, small amounts of monocyclic oligomers present in the sample were found to be less retained than each linear/branched counterpart. Finally, the molar mass distribution parameters for ethyl silicate‐40 determined by the developed method were in good agreement with the literature values. Overall, this work demonstrates that reversed‐phase liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry is an indispensable tool for the comprehensive characterization of complex mixtures of this type.
Simultaneous determination of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2 in corn powder, edible oil, peanut butter, and soy sauce by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry utilizing turbulent flow chromatography
Authors: Fan Sufang , Li Qiang , Zhang Xiaoguang , Cui Xiaobin , Zhang Dongsheng , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2015

A novel fully automated method based on dual column switching using turbulent flow chromatography followed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry was developed for the determination of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2 in corn powder, edible oil, peanut butter, and soy sauce samples. After ultrasound‐assisted extraction, samples were directly injected to the chromatographic system and the analytes were concentrated into the clean‐up loading column. Through purge switching, the analytes were transferred to the analytical column for subsequent detection by mass spectrometry. Different types of TurboFlowTM columns, transfer flow rate, transfer time were optimized. The limits of detection and quantification of this method ranged between 0.2–2.0 and 0.5–4.0 μg/kg for aflatoxins in different matrixes, respectively. Recoveries of aflatoxins were in range of 83–108.1% for all samples, matrix effects were in range of 34.1–104.7%. The developed method has been successfully applied in the analysis of aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, and G2 in real samples.
Separation of five compounds from leaves of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees by off‐line two‐dimensional high‐speed counter‐current chromatography combined with gradient and recycling elution
Authors: Zhang Li , Liu Qi , Yu Jingang , Zeng Hualiang , Jiang Shujing , Chen Xiaoqing
Published: February 2015

An off‐line two‐dimensional high‐speed counter‐current chromatography method combined with gradient and recycling elution mode was established to isolate terpenoids and flavones from the leaves of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f.) Nees. By using the solvent systems composed of n‐hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water with different volume ratios, five compounds including roseooside, 5,4′‐dihydroxyflavonoid‐7‐O‐β‐d‐pyranglucuronatebutylester, 7,8‐dimethoxy‐2′‐hydroxy‐5‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranosyloxyflavon, 14‐deoxyandrographiside, and andrographolide were successfully isolated. Purities of these isolated compounds were all over 95% as determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Their structures were identified by UV, mass spectrometry, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. It has been demonstrated that the combination of off‐line two‐dimensional high‐speed counter‐current chromatography with different elution modes is an efficient technique to isolate compounds from complex natural product extracts.
Scholarly investigation into otitis media: who is receiving funding support from the National Institutes of Health?
Authors: Hojjat Houmehr , Johnson Andrew P. , Svider Peter F. , Hong Robert S. , Zuliani Giancarlo , Folbe Adam J. , Shkoukani Mahdi A.
Published: February 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Otitis media (OM) is highly prevalent and represents a major public health concern. We evaluate National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding support for OM research and examine the role of otolaryngology primary investigators (PIs).

Study Design

Examination of bibliometrics and funding history of NIH grant recipients.

Methods

The NIH RePORTER database was examined for PIs funded for otitis media–related projects. The specialty, education level, academic department, scholarly impact (as measured by the h‐index), and funding levels of PIs were obtained.

Results

There were 320 projects funded for 1,102 fiscal years supporting OM research. Since 2000, there has been >$280 million in support. PhDs received 47.5% of awards, more than any single medical specialty. Pediatricians received 54.8% of grants awarded to physicians followed by otolaryngologists (29.9%). Pediatric infectious disease specialists and pediatric otolaryngologists had the greatest funding per PI upon considering subspecialties, whereas non–fellowship‐trained otolaryngologists had the lowest funding levels. Funded otolaryngologists had lower scholarly impact than several specialties. Aggregate funding levels to otolaryngologists decreased between 2000 and 2013.

Conclusions

The NIH provided considerable grant support for researchers studying OM as awards to practitioners in numerous specialties exceeded a quarter of a billion dollars since 2000. Although awards to otolaryngologists were significant, the share of grants awarded to otolaryngologists has declined, suggesting that increased recruitment of basic scientists and enhanced cooperation with other specialists may facilitate further scholarship. These findings suggest a need for improving initiatives that prepare otolaryngology trainees interested in translational OM research for the rigorous NIH peer‐review grant process.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:1708–1714, 2015
Use of fluorescent angiography to assess donor site perfusion prior to free tissue transfer
Authors: Taylor Steven R. , Jorgensen Jeffrey B.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To describe a novel use of fluorescent angiography in assessing donor limb perfusion prior to free tissue harvest in microvascular free tissue transfer.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

From January 2012 to June 2013, 59 patients underwent head‐and‐neck microvascular free tissue reconstruction. Evaluation of donor site perfusion via indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent angiography was utilized in 12 patients and 13 free flaps. Eleven cases were radial forearm free flaps (RFFF) and two were fibula free flaps (FFF). Preoperatively, RFFF patients were evaluated with Allen's testing, Doppler ultrasound, or both. FFF patients underwent magnetic resonance angiography. ICG was used intraoperatively to evaluate donor limb perfusion prior to free flap harvest. Intraoperative and postoperative complications of the donor limb were evaluated with cost analysis.

Results

Average follow‐up was 5.3 months. Preoperative Allen's testing was normal in six patients and ultrasound was performed in eight patients. One patient had a normal ultrasound, three showed minimal dampening, and four exhibited severe waveform flattening. There were no intraoperative complications using ICG. All 12 patients displayed adequate donor limb perfusion via fluorescent angiography. No digital or acute ischemic events were identified intraoperatively or postoperatively. There was no significant decrease in functionality or mobility of the donor limb. One patient noted mild arm pain with use.

Conclusion

Fluorescent angiography is another method to evaluate donor site perfusion prior to free tissue harvest. Larger prospective analysis would be helpful to more thoroughly evaluate safety, although this is limited by the overall low risk of ischemic complications.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:E192–E197, 2015
Change in diagnosis and treatment following specialty voice evaluation: A national database analysis
Authors: Cohen Seth M. , Kim Jaewhan , Roy Nelson , Wilk Amber , Thomas Steven , Courey Mark
Published: February 2015

Objective

We evaluated the association between specialty voice evaluation and changes in laryngeal diagnosis and treatment in patients with laryngeal/voice disorders.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of a large, national administrative U.S. claims database.

Methods

Patients included were identified with a laryngeal disorder based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes, from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2008, and had been seen by an otolaryngologist as an outpatient and had a specialty voice evaluation designated by videolaryngostroboscopy (VLS) within 90 days of the last laryngoscopy. Patient diagnosis at the last laryngoscopy visit and the subsequent initial VLS visit were collected. Specific treatment modalities were tabulated for the 30‐day period after the last laryngoscopy and for 30 days after the VLS.

Results

A total of 168,444 unique patients saw an otolaryngologist for 273,616 outpatient visits. Of those, 6.1% had a VLS performed, of which 4,000 (23.8%) occurred within 90 days of the last laryngoscopy, with a median interval of 30 days (interquartile range 15–50 days). Half of the patient visits had a change in laryngeal diagnosis. Changes in use of antibiotics, proton pump inhibitors, voice therapy, and surgical intervention were seen after specialty voice evaluation.

Conclusions

Specialty voice evaluation was associated with changes in laryngeal diagnosis and treatment. Further study is needed to assess the impact on health care costs and patient outcomes.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 125:1660–1666, 2015
Assessment of efficacy of intervention in hearing impaired children with speech and language deficits
Authors: Ruben Robert J. , Umano Helen , Silver Marilyn
Published: February 2015

The diagnosis of hearing loss in children with speech and language deficits by the otorhinolaryngologist involves a large allocation of sources. The ability to assess the efficacy of intervention in order to minimize speech and language deficits is an aspect in the care of these children which has not been generally considered as part of the child's ongoing medical care. These children have speech and language deficits predominantly from hearing impairment and occasionally from a primary language disorder. The effect of intervention (usually a hearing aid), the special education program for the hearing impaired child, and the language therapy for the child with a primary language disorder are seldom measured. The ability to assess and monitor the child's progress is essential for the care of these patients. The continual monitoring of the child's progress is accomplished by periodic assessment of the child's speech and language. An instrument to do this has been developed and used by the Department of Otorhinolaryngectomy at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine for a number of years. The utilization of this instrument, as demonstrated by a series of case reports, will be presented. These will include children in which intervention was successful and those for whom it was unsuccessful, with an analysis of the reasons underlying the effectiveness for each child. It is recommended that every child with a speech and language deficit should be monitored periodically so that the child's progress, or lack of progress, can be determined. If the child is not progressing, additional remediation can be instituted to attempt to prevent a permanent speech and language deficiency.
Reconstruction of the tongue
Authors: Mikaelian Diran O.
Published: February 2015

Subtotal or total glossectomies performed for malignancies or other afflictions of the tongue are fraught with great disabling problems postoperatively. Recently the introduction of myocutaneous flaps has aroused new interest in surgical procedures to reconstruct the tongue following major resections.

A new approach to functional reconstruction of the tongue is presented utilizing the sternocleidomastoid myocutaneous flap based superiorly. Neurorrhaphy between the hypoglossal nerve on the resected side of the tongue and the nerve to the sternocleidomastoid muscle is easily achieved without under tension as these nerves are in close proximity. In addition, the sternocleidomastoid myocutaneous flap is an ideal flap in tongue reconstruction as there is no fat between the skin and muscle and it resembles the bulkiness of the tongue muscle itself.

A patient with a carcinoma of the tongue treated with subtotal resection and reconstruction using the above principles demonstrated full tongue movements 11 months postoperatively.
Needle aspiration biopsy of thyroid nodules
Authors: Brauer Richard J. , Silver Carl E.
Published: February 2015

Needle aspiration biopsies for cytology were performed on 224 patients with thyroid nodules. Diagnosis was confirmed by surgical exploration in 134 patients. Twenty‐four biopsies were reported positive for malignancy; 23 were confirmed at operation and there was 1 false positive. Forty‐one biopsies were reported benign. Three of these lesions were found to be malignant, representing false negatives. Sixty‐nine biopsies were in the questionable category; 16 (23%) of these were malignant. None of the patients suffered complications from the biopsies.

Routine employment of needle aspiration biopsy on our service has resulted in a marked increase in the incidence of carcinoma in thyroid nodules selected for surgery. This has resulted from detection of otherwise unsuspected malignancy, as well as avoidance of surgery in patients with benign lesions.

Needle aspiration is not a substitute for surgery. It is a valuable diagnostic procedure, and should be performed in the evaluation of essentially all thyroid nodules. We continue to use radioiodine scanning to evaluate our patients, but have found the routine use of ultrasonography unnecessary when needle aspiration is employed. The ultimate decision regarding surgical exploration is based on a combination of factors including history, physical findings, radioiodine scan and needle aspiration biopsy.
Kinelaryngoscopy for documentation of laryngeal pathophysiology
Authors: Selkin Stuart G.
Published: February 2015

Viewing the larynx has been revolutionized by the advent of the flexible fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscope. For the first time a subject may inspire, expire, cough, swallow, phonate sounds, words, sentences, passages, and sing in full voice as examination and photodocumentation procede.

Combining the flexible fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscope with a home video camera, a standard fiberoptic light source, a standard videotape recorder, and a standard color TV set, the author details a method for the production of color and sound videotapes of the larynx in action. The video images are of excellent quality, and may be made in straightforward and economical manner. In fact, the entire array of instrumentation, including the flexible fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscope, light source, video camera, lens, adapter, camera mount, videotape recorder, and TV set may be purchased for significantly less than the cost of the camera that most physicians use for endoscopic photography.

The concept of flexible fiberoptic examination of the larynx and videophotodocumentation of the larynx in respiratory, sphincteric, and phonatory action shall be referred to as “kinelaryngoscopy.”
Primary adenomatous neoplasm of the middle ear
Authors: Eden Avrim R. , Pincus Robert L. , Parisier Simon C. , Som Peter M.
Published: February 2015

Adenomatous lesions of the temporal bone are seldom encountered in clinical practice. Four cases of primary adenocarcinoma of the middle ear are reported. All four patients presented with a mass behind an intact tympanic membrane. Two of the four patients had received radiation to the head and neck area 10 or more years prior to their developing adenocarcinoma of the middle ear space. Although this tumor is locally invasive, it does not appear to be highly aggressive and can be treated by local excision, i.e., mastoidectomy with tympanoplasty.
Myofacial pain dysfunction syndrome: A clinical study of asymptomatic subjects
Authors: Cooper Barry C. , Rabuzzi Daniel D.
Published: February 2015

The diagnosis of myofacial pain dysfunction (MPD), commonly called temporomandibular joint syndrome, has traditionally been made on the presence of a group of clinical symptoms that produce pain and limitation of movement. The cause of this common illness has been the subject of controversy for over half a century. There has been a lack of agreement on diagnosis, cause, and treatment.

Advanced bioelectronic technology now makes an accurate diagnosis possible, based not merely on clinical symptoms, but on reproducible scientific data. A cause of MPD is discernable and reliable treatment possible, as well as long lasting resolution objectively monitorable with the Mandibular Kinesiograph® (MKG 5‐R) and Bioelectric Processor® (EMIR).

A study of mandibular movement and masticular muscle function of 26 “normal” subjects (i.e., clinically asymptomatic) revealed that the overwhelming majority did indeed have dysfunction of the muscles which move and posture the mandible.

The significance of this study is twofold. First it demonstrates a valid testing procedure for measuring mandibular movement and muscle function. Second it establishes the fact that most individuals have a physical predisposition to MPD. Changes in the adaptive capacity of the neuromusculature by physical or emotional trauma could then precipitate MPD.
Adenocarcinoma of the sublingual gland: Case report and 50 year review of the literature
Authors: Nishijima Wataru , Tokita Nobuhiro , Takooda Shouji , Tsuchiya Shin‐ichi , Watanabe Isamu
Published: February 2015

Primary adenocarcinoma arising in the sublingual gland is extremely rare, accounting for six cases reported in extensive survey of the literature for the period of 1930 to 1981.

A case of adenocarcinoma of the sublingual gland is documented, demonstrating a highly malignant nature of the disease. This neoplasm possesses particular therapeutic problems owing to the relative lack of symptoms and the delay of initial medical observation after the onset of symptoms.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma in a cervical cyst: A case of branchiogenic carcinoma?
Authors: Browder J. Patterson , Wheeler Michael S. , Henley John T. , Geratz J. Dieter
Published: February 2015

A patient with a primary oral epidermoid carcinoma with presumed neck metastasis is presented who at operation was found to have a cervical mucoepidermoid carcinoma arising in the wall of a benign cyst. The case for considering this tumor a primary branchioma of mucoepidermoid type is presented, and the criteria for making the diagnosis of branchiogenic carcinoma are discussed.
Urbanization changes the composition and bioavailability of dissolved organic matter in headwater streams
Authors: Parr Thomas B. , Cronan Christopher S. , Ohno Tsutomu , Findlay Stuart E. G. , Smith Sean M. C. , Simon Kevin S.
Published: February 2015

Population growth in cities has resulted in the rapid expansion of urbanized land. Most research and management of stream ecosystems affected by urban expansion has focused on the maintenance and restoration of biotic communities rather than their basal resources. We examined the potential for urbanization to induce bottom‐up ecosystem effects by looking at its influence on dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition and bioavailability and microbial enzyme activity. We selected 113 headwater streams across a gradient of urbanization in central and southern Maine and used elemental and optical analyses, including parallel factor analysis of excitation‐emission matrices, to characterize DOM composition. Results show that fluorescent and stoichiometric DOM composition changed significantly across the rural to urban gradient. Specifically, the proportion of humic‐like allochthonous DOM decreased while that of more bioavailable autochthonous DOM increased in the more urbanized streams. In laboratory incubations, increased autochthonous DOM was associated with a doubling in the decay rate of dissolved organic carbon as well as increased activity of C‐acquiring enzymes. These results suggest that urbanization replaces upstream humic material with more local sources of DOM that turnover more rapidly and may drive bottom‐up changes in microbial communities and affect the quality and quantity of downstream DOM delivery.
Deciphering sedimentary organic matter sources: Insights from radiocarbon measurements and NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Sanderman Jonathan , Krull Evelyn , Kuhn Thomas , Hancock Gary , McGowan Janine , Maddern Todd , Fallon Stewart , Steven Andy
Published: February 2015

In a sediment core collected from an estuary in a rapidly urbanizing region in South East Queensland, Australia, we used multiple geochemical tracers to understand the provenance, form, and rate of accumulating organic matter (OM) focusing on the application of two tools often used in studies of soil OM: solid‐state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and interpretation of radiocarbon (14C) data by modeling the uptake of the bomb‐spike in atmospheric 14C. While elemental (C, N) and stable isotope (13C, 15N) data generally could not distinguish OM sources, these data did indicate that there has been a steady increase in nutrient loading to the estuary and that there were periodic deposition events where the OM was dominated by C3 terrestrial vegetation. The NMR results showed that the OM was primarily of terrestrial origin being dominated by lignin and stable char‐like carbon compounds in all samples. The 14C data and modeling indicated that the OM was composed of a mixture of material with widely varying ages. In general, the OM was hundreds of years older than the age of the sediments as determined by fallout radionuclide dating (1950–2009 chronology), indicating that a large fraction of the OM has resided on the terrestrial landscape for a substantial period before being transported and buried in the estuary sediments. By applying this combination of techniques, we have been able to develop a coherent picture of a very complex deposition and accumulation history in these estuary sediments.
Patients with acute liver failure listed for superurgent liver transplantation in France: Reevaluation of the clichy‐villejuif criteria
Authors: Ichai Philippe , Legeai Camille , Francoz Claire , Boudjema Karim , Boillot Olivier , Ducerf Christian , Mathurin Philippe , Pruvot François‐René , Suc Bertrand , Wolf Philippe , Soubrane Olivier , Treut Yves Patrice Le , Cherqui Daniel , Hannoun Laurent , Pageaux Georges‐Philippe , Gugenheim Jean , Letoublon Christian , Saric Jean , Martino Vincent Di , Abergel Armand , Chiche Laurence , Antonini Teresa Maria , Jacquelinet Christian , Castaing Denis , Samuel Didier ,   the French Liver Transplant Teams
Published: February 2015

In France, decisions regarding superurgent (SU) liver transplantation (LT) for patients with acute liver failure (ALF) are principally based on the Clichy‐Villejuif (CV) criteria. The aims of the present study were to study the outcomes of patients registered for SU LT and the factors that were predictive of spontaneous improvement and to determine the usefulness of the CV criteria. All patients listed in France for SU LT between 1997 and 2010 who were 15 years old or older with ALF were included. In all, 808 patients were listed for SU transplantation: 22% with paracetamol‐induced ALF and 78% with non–paracetamol‐induced ALF. Of these 808 patients, 112 improved spontaneously, 587 underwent LT, and 109 died or left the waiting list because of a worsening condition. The 1‐year survival rate according to an intention‐to‐treat analysis and the survival after LT were 66.3% [interquartile range (IQR), 62.7%‐69.7%] and 74.2% (IQR, 70.5%‐77.6%), respectively. The factors that were predictive of a spontaneous recovery with ALF‐related paracetamol hepatotoxicity were as follows: hepatic encephalopathy grade 0, 1, or 2 [odds ratio (OR), 4.8; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.99‐11.6]; creatinine clearance ≥ 60 mL/minute/1.73 m2 (OR, 4.77; 95% CI, 1.96‐11.63), a bilirubin level < 200 µmol/L (OR, 21.64; 95% CI, 1.76‐265.7); and a factor V level > 20% (OR, 5.79; 95% CI, 1.66‐20.29). For ALF‐related nonparacetamol hepatotoxicity, the factor that was predictive of a spontaneous recovery was a bilirubin level < 200 µmol/L (OR, 10.38; 95% CI, 4.71‐22.86). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the CV criteria were 75%, 56%, 50%, and 79%, respectively, for ALF due to paracetamol and 69%, 50%, 64%, and 55%, respectively, for ALF not related to paracetamol. The performance of current criteria for SU transplantation could be improved if paracetamol‐induced ALF and non–paracetamol‐induced ALF were split and 2 other items were included in this model: the bilirubin level and creatinine clearance. Liver Transpl 21:512‐523, 2015. © 2015 AASLD.
New geometric properties of Banach spaces
Authors: Saito Kichi‐Suke , Tanaka Ryotaro
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we introduce new geometric properties as generalizations of p‐uniform smoothness and q‐uniform convexity of Banach spaces. Furthermore, using generalized Beckner's inequality, we characterize the properties in terms of norm inequalities. As an application, we consider the duality relation.
Gelation Kinetics and Polymer Network Dynamics of Homogeneous Tetra‐PEG Gels
Authors: Shibayama Mitsuhiro , Nishi Kengo , Hiroi Takashi
Published: February 2015

Tetra‐PEG gels made via cross‐end‐coupling of tetra‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) chains having complementary functional groups have been recognized to have a very homogeneous network structure free from inhomogeneities and entanglements. Their unique network structure provides advanced mechanical properties, such as high deformability and toughness. The origin of these unique structure and properties is investigated from the viewpoints of gelation kinetics and polymer network dynamics. Spectroscopic studies on gelation kinetics of Tetra‐PEG gels indicate that the gelation kinetics is classified to reaction‐limited process, leading to formation of uniform polymer network with high yield. Polymer dynamics studied with neutron spin echo (NSE) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) shows that the dynamic is classified to Zimm mode in the microscopig regime (NSE window), and to collective diffusion mode in mesoscopic regime (DLS window). The crossover was found to correspond to the mesh size of the network. The absence of the offset in the intermediate scattering function also indicates homogeneity and uniformity of Tetra‐PEG gel networks.
Neutron Studies of Composites of Poly(phenylene oxide) Modified by Hybrid Star‐Shaped Fullerene‐Containing Macromolecules
Authors: Lebedev Vasily , Kulvelis Yury , Orlova Diana , Krasnopeeva Elena , Shamanin Valery , Vinogradova Lyudmila
Published: February 2015

Films of poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene oxide) (PPO) pure and modified by the hybrid star‐shaped polymer (1; 3 and 5% wt.) consisting of fullerene C60 core with the grafted arms of polystyrene (PS) and diblock copolymer of 2‐vinylpyridine (2VP) and tert‐butyl methacrylate (TBMA) have been prepared and analyzed by small‐angle neutron scattering. The neutron studies of these dry samples and then the same polymers saturated with D‐methanol have demonstrated in pure PPO‐matrix the existence of a labile system of branched channels for solvent diffusion. Meanwhile in the composites a developed network of stable linear channels was observed. The investigations of membranes' morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) have revealed the presence of micro‐sized domains in the samples in accordance with the neutron scattering data.
Structure and Gas Transport Properties of Polybenzoxazinoneimides with Biquinoline Units in the Backbone
Authors: Polotskaya Galina , Guliy Natalia , Goikhman Mikhail , Podeshvo Irina , Brozova Libuse , Pientka Zbynek
Published: February 2015

Four polymers with heteroaromatic structures were synthesized starting from dichloroanhydride of 2,2/‐biquinoline‐7,7/‐dicarboxylic acid. These are imide‐containing polyamic acid and product of its cyclization polybenzoxazinoneimide as well as complexes of these two polymers with Cu(I). Dense film membranes prepared from the four polymers were characterized in terms of their density and free volume. The gas permeabilities to H2, O2, N2, CO2, and CH4 of the four films and the selectivities in separations of industrially important gas pairs were determined. Polymer chemical structures, polymer free volumes, diffusion coefficients and the sizes of gas molecules were correlated with polymer permeabilities. The prepared and investigated polymers show very good separation properties located near the upper bound lines in Robeson's diagrams.
Effect of Temperature on Self‐Assembly of Amphiphilic Block‐Gradient Copolymers of Styrene and Acrylic Acid
Authors: Borisova Olga V. , Billon Laurent , Cernochova Zulfiya , Lapp Alain , Stepanek Petr , Borisov Oleg V.
Published: February 2015

The effect of temperature on self‐assembly of a novel type of amphiphilic ionic copolymers comprising a hydrophilic poly(acrylic acid) PAA block and an amphiphilic poly(acrylic acid)‐grad‐poly(styrene) PAA‐grad‐PS copolymer block has been studied by Small Angle Neutron and Dynamic Light Scattering (SANS, DLS). The polymers have been synthesized using direct Nitroxide‐Mediated Polymerization (NMP) as described elsewhere and proved to be capable of formation of the equilibrium (dynamic) micelles responsive to variations in pH and ionic strength of the solution. We have demonstrated that an increase in temperature from 20 to 80 °C has almost no influence if the assembly occurs at pH∼6 in a wide range of salt concentration. Under these conditions stable micelle aggregates are formed. At pH∼6.9 virtually no aggregation occurs at any temperature in salt‐free solution, whereas at 1 M salt concentration we observed an appearance of the correlation peak in the scattering curves and an increase in hydrodynamic radius in dilute solutions evidencing self‐association of polymer chains. The magnitude of the correlation peak increases upon an increase in temperature. This behaviour may be attributed to the combined effect of temperature on the ionization constant and on the strength of hydrophobic interactions.
Fatigue assessment of joints using the local stress field
Authors: Schmidt H. , Baumgartner J. , Melz T.
Published: February 2015

This paper comprises a brief methodical analysis as well as a practical application of both, the stress averaging approach according to Neuber and the critical distance approach according to Taylor for a fatigue assessment on welded and adhesively bonded thin‐walled steel structures. The approaches are discussed and in case of the welded joints compared to the notch stress approach with a reference radius of rref = 0.05 mm, which is usually applied for thin‐walled structures. Furthermore, both approaches are applied for an assessment of welded joints and adhesively bonded joints. Using results from fatigue tests, a micro‐structural length of ρ* = 0.5 mm could be identified for welds, and ρ* = 2.75 mm for the examined adhesive bonds. The value for steel welds is close to the proposed value of ρ* = 0.4 mm, which was used by Radaj deriving the effective notch radius of rref = 1 mm. For the critical distance approach, a distance of a* = 0.1 mm was derived for welds and a* = 0.9 mm for the examined adhesive bonds. Using the stress averaging or critical distance approach and the identified material values, a reliable fatigue strength assessment can be performed for both welded and adhesively bonded joints.
Optimal decay rate of the bipolar Euler–Poisson system with damping in dimension three
Authors: Wu Zhigang , Qin Yuming
Published: February 2015

By rewriting a bipolar Euler–Poisson equations with damping into a Euler equation with damping coupled with a Euler–Poisson equation with damping and using a new spectral analysis, we obtain the optimal decay results of the solutions in L2 norm. More precisely, the velocities u1 and u2 decay at the L2−rate , which is faster than the normal L2‐rate for the heat equation and the Navier–Stokes equations. In addition, the decay rates of the disparities of two densities ρ1−ρ2 and the disparity of two velocities u1−u2 could reach to and in L2 norm, respectively. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ground state solutions for a coupled Kirchhoff‐type system
Authors: Lü Dengfeng , Xiao Jianhai
Published: February 2015

In this paper, we consider the coupled Kirchhoff‐type system

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma3414:mma3414-math-0488
where ε is a small positive parameter and ai>0, bi≥0 are constants for i = 1,2, P,Q are positive continuous potentials satisfying some conditions. Using minimax theorem and the Ljusternik‐Schnirelmann category theory, we obtain the existence and multiplicity results of ground state solutions for the aforementioned system as ε > 0 small enough. Moreover, the concentration phenomena of solutions is also explored. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sulfonation of curcuminoids: Characterization and contribution of individual SULT enzymes
Authors: Lu Xiaoyue , Jiang Kunyu , Han Long , Zhang Maofan , Zhou Yu , Ma Yinglin , Zhou Yiping , Meng Shengnan
Published: February 2015

Scope

Poor oral bioavailability of curcuminoids limited their various applications, and one of the main reasons is their rapid metabolism in vivo. Sulfonation via sulfotransferases (SULTs) is an important metabolic pathway for such compounds. The objective of this study is to determine the SULT‐isoform‐specific metabolic fingerprint, tissue‐specific rate, and reaction kinetic profiles to describe the characterization and contribution of curcuminoids sulfonation.

Methods and results

Sulfonation of curcuminoids was investigated by using nine expressed SULT isoforms and four pooled human tissue S9 fractions. The results showed that human small intestine is the predominant tissue responsible for sulfonation of curcuminoids. SULT1A3 is a major isoform catalyzing sulfonation of curcumin and demethoxycurcumin, but not for bisdemethoxycurcumin. SULT1B1 is only responsible for sulfonation of curcumin. Although SULT1C4 and 1E1 could highly catalyze the sulfate conjugations toward all the three compounds, the correlativities with human small intestine S9 fractions were much weaker (R2 = 0.100–0.482). Almost all the kinetic profiles of the SULT isoforms for curcuminoids exhibited substrate inhibition kinetics.

Conclusion

This investigation contributed to elucidate the SULT‐mediated metabolism and detoxication of curcuminoids at molecular levels and in different organs.
Dietary proanthocyanidins modulate melatonin levels in plasma and the expression pattern of clock genes in the hypothalamus of rats
Authors: Ribas‐Latre Aleix , Del Bas Josep M. , Baselga‐Escudero Laura , Casanova Ester , Arola‐Arnal Anna , Salvadó Maria‐Josepa , Arola Lluís , Bladé Cinta
Published: February 2015

Scope

Circadian rhythms allow organisms to anticipate and adapt to environmental changes, and food components can adjust internal rhythms. Proanthocyanidins improve cardiovascular risk factors that exhibit circadian oscillations. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to determine whether proanthocyanidins can modulate body rhythms.

Methods and results

Male Wistar rats were orally gavaged with 250 mg grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE)/kg body weight at zeitgeber time (ZT) 0 (light on). Phenotypic biorhythm was evaluated by measuring the concentration of plasma melatonin and metabolites, using MNR‐metabolomics, at several ZT. Remarkably, GSPE treatment maintained nocturnal melatonin levels at ZT3 and altered the oscillations of some metabolites in plasma. Quantification of expression of clock‐core (Clock, Bmal1, Per2, Rorα, Rev‐erbα) and clock‐controlled (Nampt) genes in the hypothalamus by RT‐PCR showed that this phenotypic alteration was concomitant with the modulation of the expression pattern of Bmal1 and Nampt. However, GSPE did not modulate the nocturnal expression of clock genes when administered at ZT12 (light off).

Conclusion

PAs could have chronobiological properties, although their activity depends largely on the time of administration.
Knowledge Transfer between For‐Profit Corporations and Their Corporate Foundations
Authors: Minciullo Marco , Pedrini Matteo
Published: February 2015

This article investigates the impact of knowledge transfer (Goh 2002) from founder firms to the corporate foundations (CFs) on the CFs’ effectiveness. Starting from a typology of CFs’ effectiveness (Ostrower 2006a), we conducted a survey addressed to a sample of Italian CFs to address the impact of different knowledge transfer methods (KTMs) on three dimensions of CFs’ orientation to effectiveness: proactive orientation, social advocacy, and capacity building. The research identified four different KTMs and, using a linear regression, pointed out that the methods adopted by founder firms have a significant influence on proactivity, competences, and on social advocacy of CFs.
Expatriate Cultural Antecedents and Outcomes
Authors: Ritchie William , Brantley Brent I. , Pattie Marshall , Swanson Bruce , Logsdon Joshua
Published: February 2015

This field note is based upon a case study of US expatriates working for a multinational nonprofit organization in North and Central Africa. The purpose of this study was to examine expatriate culture adjustment from two vantage points. First, the study tested the impact of three organizational conditions on expatriate culture adjustment. Second, the study examined the relationship between an expatriate's culture adjustment and (1) their intention to prematurely leave the international assignment and (2) their effectiveness in host country relationships. In the first phase of analysis, the study found that the expatriate's alignment with organizational mission and values, level of team esprit‐de‐corps, and job satisfaction were significant predictors of national cultural adjustment. In the second phase, the study found that higher levels of expatriate cultural adjustment (1) yielded lower levels of employees’ premature turnover intention and (2) enhanced the expatriate's ability to work with host country nationals and their organizations. The validated survey instrument in this study provides managers with a tool to measure the organizational conditions, expatriate's level of cultural adjustment, turnover intention, and relationships with host ‐country nationals. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Students Speak/Resources
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: February 2015

Students Speak

Teacher left classroom to focus on studies

Resources

Help make course materials affordable

More segmenting of prospects is needed

Most black students are nontraditional
Effectiveness of a worksite‐based weight loss randomized controlled trial: The worksite study
Authors: Almeida Fabio A. , You Wen , Harden Samantha M. , Blackman Kacie C.A. , Davy Brenda M. , Glasgow Russell E. , Hill Jennie L. , Linnan Laura A. , Wall Sarah S. , Yenerall Jackie , Zoellner Jamie M. , Estabrooks Paul A.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of an individually targeted Internet‐based intervention with monetary incentives (INCENT) at reducing weight of overweight and obese employees when compared with a less‐intensive intervention (Livin' My Weigh [LMW]) 6 months after program initiation.

Methods

Twenty‐eight worksites were randomly assigned to either INCENT or LMW conditions. Both programs used evidence‐based strategies to support weight loss. INCENT was delivered via daily e‐mails over 12 months while LMW was delivered quarterly via both newsletters and on‐site educational sessions. Generalized linear mixed models were conducted for weight change from baseline to 6 months post‐program and using an intention‐to‐treat analysis to include all participants with baseline weight measurements.

Results

Across 28 worksites, 1,790 employees (M = 47 years of age; 79% Caucasian; 74% women) participated. Participants lost an average of 2.27 lbs (P < 0.001) with a BMI decrease of 0.36 kg/m2 (P < 0.001) and 1.30 lbs (P < 0.01) with a BMI decrease of 0.20 kg/m2 (P < 0.01) in INCENT and LMW, respectively. The differences between INCENT and LMW in weight loss and BMI reduction were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

This study suggests that INCENT and a minimal intervention alternative may be effective approaches to help decrease the overall obesity burden within worksites.
Residential property values predict prevalent obesity but do not predict 1‐year weight change
Authors: Drewnowski Adam , Aggarwal Anju , Tang Wesley , Moudon Anne Vernez
Published: February 2015

Objective

Lower socio economic status (SES) has been linked with higher obesity rates but not with weight gain. This study examined whether SES can predict short‐term weight change.

Methods

The Seattle Obesity Study II was based on an observational cohort of 440 adults. Weights and heights were measured at baseline and at 1 year. Self‐reported education and incomes were obtained by questionnaire. Home addresses were linked to tax parcel property values from the King County, Washington, tax assessor. Associations among SES variables, prevalent obesity, and 1‐year weight change were examined using multivariable linear regressions.

Results

Low residential property values at the tax parcel level predicted prevalent obesity at baseline and at 1 year. Living in the top quartile of house prices reduced obesity risk by 80% at both time points. At 1 year, about 38% of the sample lost >1 kg body weight; 32% maintained (± 1 kg); and 30% gained >1 kg. In adjusted models, none of the baseline SES measures had any impact on 1‐year weight change.

Conclusions

SES variables, including tax parcel property values, predicted prevalent obesity but did not predict short‐term weight change. These findings, based on longitudinal cohort data, suggest other mechanisms are involved in short‐term weight change.
Multimorbidity in a prospective cohort: Prevalence and associations with weight loss and health status in severely obese patients
Authors: Agborsangaya Calypse B. , Majumdar Sumit R. , Sharma Arya M. , Gregg Edward W. , Padwal Raj S.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To examine the prevalence of multimorbidity (≥2 chronic conditions) in severely obese patients and its associations with weight loss and health status over 2 years.

Methods

In a prospective cohort including 500 severely obese adults, self‐reported prevalence of 20 chronic conditions was calculated at baseline and 2 years. Multivariable logistic regression models were fitted to test the covariate‐adjusted associations between ≥5% weight reduction and reduction in multimorbidity and the association between health status (visual analogue scale [VAS]) and reduction in multimorbidity over 2 years.

Results

After 2 years, mean weight change was −12.9 ±18.7 kg, 53% had ≥5% weight reduction, mean change in VAS was 11.5 ± 21.2, and 53.5% had ≥10% increase in VAS. Multimorbidity was reported in 95.4% and 92.8% patients at baseline and 2 years, respectively. Weight loss (≥5%) over 2 years was associated with reduction in multimorbidity (adjusted OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.1‐2.7). Reduction in multimorbidity was associated with clinically important improvements (≥10% increase in VAS) in health status (adjusted OR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.6, 4.0).

Conclusions

Multimorbidity is common in severely obese patients. Having ≥5% weight reduction over 2 years was associated with a reduction in multimorbidity, which was also associated with improvements in health status.