bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate linear regression of high‐dimensional fMRI data with multiple target variables
Authors: Valente Giancarlo , Castellanos Agustin Lage , Vanacore Gianluca , Formisano Elia
Published: July 2013

Multivariate regression is increasingly used to study the relation between fMRI spatial activation patterns and experimental stimuli or behavioral ratings. With linear models, informative brain locations are identified by mapping the model coefficients. This is a central aspect in neuroimaging, as it provides the sought‐after link between the activity of neuronal populations and subject's perception, cognition or behavior. Here, we show that mapping of informative brain locations using multivariate linear regression (MLR) may lead to incorrect conclusions and interpretations. MLR algorithms for high dimensional data are designed to deal with targets (stimuli or behavioral ratings, in fMRI) separately, and the predictive map of a model integrates information deriving from both neural activity patterns and experimental design. Not accounting explicitly for the presence of other targets whose associated activity spatially overlaps with the one of interest may lead to predictive maps of troublesome interpretation. We propose a new model that can correctly identify the spatial patterns associated with a target while achieving good generalization. For each target, the training is based on an augmented dataset, which includes all remaining targets. The estimation on such datasets produces both maps and interaction coefficients, which are then used to generalize. The proposed formulation is independent of the regression algorithm employed. We validate this model on simulated fMRI data and on a publicly available dataset. Results indicate that our method achieves high spatial sensitivity and good generalization and that it helps disentangle specific neural effects from interaction with predictive maps associated with other targets.Hum Brain Mapp 35:2163–2177, 2014. ©2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The 12‐month prevalence and nature of adverse experiences resulting in emergency medical presentations associated with the use of synthetic cannabinoid products
Authors: Winstock Adam R. , Barratt Monica J.
Published: July 2013

Objective

A wide range of synthetic cannabinoid products have recently become available through the Internet and shop fronts across the globe. Concerns about the consequences of their use have been prompted by increasing reports of emergency department presentations.

Methods

An anonymous global online survey was conducted using a research tool based on previous work carried out by the group. Data collection took place during a 4‐week period at the end of 2011.

Results

Among 950 last‐year users, 23 (2.4%) reported having sought emergency medical treatment following the use of a synthetic cannabinoid product. The most common presentations were panic and anxiety, followed by paranoia and breathing difficulties. Recent users who reported seeking emergency medical treatment were significantly younger (median age 20 years, interquartile range 18–22) than those who did not report seeking treatment (median age 23 years, interquartile range 19–28; Mann–Whitney test, z = 2.89, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Synthetic cannabinoid use appears to be associated with a high prevalence of adverse experiences among users, especially younger users. Further research is required to determine whether particular compounds carry a higher risk of harm than others and to assess potential consequences of longer term use. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seeing Ourselves as Others See Us: Using Video Feedback in Family Therapy
Authors: Reimers Sigurd
Published: July 2013

Video recordings have been used for many years in family therapy for supervisory or therapist review purposes, but have usually had little direct relevance for clients. This article describes how video recordings can be used jointly by therapist and family to discuss episodes and themes in the sessions, rather like the current use of reflecting teams. The danger of the abuse of power in video feedback is also discussed — a danger which is present in all forms of therapy, however ‘user friendly’ they aim to be.
Integrating Attachment Theory into Family Therapy
Authors: Fisch Marta
Published: July 2013

Solution‐focused therapies have had only short‐term effectiveness for clients with serious problems stemming from abuse who come to our family counselling centre in Auckland, New Zealand. In seeking long‐lasting change, we have begun integrating attachment theory into the family systems therapy we have been practising. The Adult Attachment Interview (George, Kaplan, & Main, 1985) has been incorporated into a case in order to study the effectiveness of integrating attachment and family systems theories. This case illustrates how information gathered about the mother's attachment pattern can help the therapist comprehend the client's response to the present crisis, and clear a path through what can appear to be an overwhelming labyrinth of presenting issues.
Making Difference Matter: An Exploration of Culture and Identity in the Therapeutic Domain
Authors: McIlwaine Fiona
Published: July 2013

This paper examines a number of dimensions which the author believes are pivotal to a feminist perspective in working with clients from linguistically and culturally diverse communities. Definitions of culture and identity are examined in the context of power, followed by a discussion of the therapist's relationship with her/his frameworks of knowledge. Finally, the place of ethics is considered, drawing on a recent analysis of democracy. Through this discussion and analysis, therapists may reflect more fully on their own culture and identity, without which it is not possible to do therapy which can bridge cultural difference.
A Passion for Prevention: An Interview with Anne Sved‐Williams
Authors: MacKenzie Murdoch C. , Sved‐Williams Anne
Published: July 2013

Anne Sved Williams is a perinatal and infant psychiatrist, who was trained in family therapy at the Ackerman Family Institute in New York, in 1976–77. In 1979, she was one of two women (the late Eleanor Wertheim being the other) invited to join the original Editorial Board of this journal. She is Director of Helen Mayo House and Psychiatric Services to the Women's and Babies Division, Women's and Children's Hospital Adelaide. She is a Clinical Senior Lecturer, University of Adelaide. In speaking with Colin MacKenzie, she recalls her introduction to family therapy, her training, her decision to move away from repair work with parents needing help in parenting adolescent children, in order to start ‘at the beginning’ with the parents of infants. She speaks of her pride in the ANZJFT's continuing tradition of Education Update, originally Anne's own initiative.
Critiques of Narrative Therapy: A Personal Response
Authors: Hayward Mark
Published: July 2013

This paper responds to some of the specific and the generalised challenges to narrative therapy from therapists of other persuasions. It discusses the long history of model rivalry and locates this debate in that process. It also takes up specific concerns of isolationism, desertion, language, sectarianism, colonialism and ethical superiority. Throughout, I attempt to identify my thinking in relation to the criticisms, and to write transparently about why I understand things in the way I do. This is not a neutral paper — I see myself as a narrative therapist.
Many Stories to Tell: Response to the Biogram
Authors: Lucas John
Published: July 2013

There is nothing more challenging in the field of counselling than working crossculturally, in that the practitioner is forced to confront his or her own framework of assumptions, at the personal, professional, social and the cultural levels. For the person who moves between one culture and another, there is nothing more challenging than the act of migration itself, with its attendant losses and adjustments. These two areas of experience come together in attempting to provide a counselling service for refugees which is meaningful for them as well as for the practitioners.
‘I Thought We Came for Therapy!’: Autobiography Sessions in Couple Work
Authors: Hoang Lě
Published: July 2013

Each family builds up its own culture which is partially invisible to each of its members, and so I invite my couple clients to write their own autobiography as part of a move towards self‐differentiation. By emphasising difference in this way, I hope to allow my clients to feel OK about their discomfort, if any, with my ethnicity. I include vignettes to illustrate the process and client response.
The Critical Component of Cognitive Restructuring in Couples Therapy: A Case Study
Authors: Dattilio Frank M.
Published: July 2013

This case study is offered as an example of how cognitive‐behavioral strategies, namely, cognitive restructuring of couples' schemas and the use of specific homework assignments, may be integrated into the course of couple therapy. The article suggests that all therapeutic modalities, regardless of their theoretical orientation, embrace some form of cognitive restructuring and behavioural instruction as a primary agent of change. Cognitive restructuring is highlighted in particular as a critical component of treatment. Michelle Webster, who practices Emotionally Focused Therapy, responds to Frank Dattilio, and he then replies.
In Touch With People, not Paper: An Interview With Doug Sotheren
Authors: Zervos Cathy , Sotheren Doug
Published: July 2013

Doug Sotheren has been conducting well‐regarded training courses in relationship counseling for over 25 years, outside a university setting. In conversation with his former trainee Cathy Zervos, he presents his personal philosophy of counsellor training, emphasising the need for trainees to be ‘in touch with people’ rather than with theory. His whole course is experiential and based on the concept that training (including the way the co‐trainers handle their own relationship in front of the group) should model the counselling process itself. He talks about his way of selecting students, and his views on counselling students out of the course where necessary. A long‐serving member of the AAMFC and former editor of their newsletter, Sotheren praises the AAMFC for requiring demonstrated competence in its members.
Parent and Child Therapy: An Attachment‐Based Intervention for Children With Challenging Problems
Authors: Chambers Heather , Amos Jacqueline , Allison Steve , Roeger Leigh
Published: July 2013

Parent and Child Therapy (PACT) is an attachment‐based intervention for children aged between 4 and 12 years old experiencing emotional and behavioural problems. It is appropriate for distressed parent—child relationships which have not responded to systemic family therapy. PACT seeks to reframe parent—child relationship distress using narrative techniques and experiential tasks based on the concept of supported looking. Therapy occurs in parallel for parent and child using a one‐way screen. PACT improves parents' reflective capacity and sensitivity, and for the child's sense of security in her primary attachment relationship. An outline of the four stages of PACT is presented along with a case study to illustrate the course of PACT. Finally, we discuss the dissemination of PACT within a busy child and adolescent mental health service and outline our plans for future outcome evaluation.
Importance of NOx control for peak ozone reduction in the Pearl River Delta region
Authors: Li Ying , Lau Alexis K. H. , Fung Jimmy C. H. , Zheng Junyu , Liu Shawchen
Published: July 2013

As major air pollutants and key precursors of several secondary air pollutants, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are regulated in many countries. However, NOx control increases ozone concentrations when the ozone formation regime is volatile organic compound (VOC) limited. Although many studies have shown that NOx regulation reduces ozone levels over the long term, it is still of concern that NOx regulation increases short‐term ozone levels in metropolitan regions, where ozone formation is found to be predominantly VOC‐limited. The Pearl River Delta (PRD) in China is such a region. Our modeling sensitivity study shows that while NOx reduction in the PRD region may raise the mean ozone concentration, it can also decrease peak ozone levels. Similar changes are observed in the NOx and ozone data of the PRD regional air quality monitoring network (2006–2012), lending further credence to our results. In the model, this NOx control effect is a result of the complicated spatial and diurnal variations of the ozone formation regime. In most of the PRD region, the formation regime is VOC‐limited in the morning and becomes NOx‐limited during peak ozone hours. Although some areas are always VOC‐limited, their ozone concentrations are relatively low, and the ozone increases caused by NOx reduction generally do not cause higher ozone levels than the region's original ozone maxima. Several control scenarios are simulated to evaluate the effects of various possible control regulations. Our results show that in addition to VOC control, NOx control can be effective for reducing peak ozone concentrations in the PRD region.
COMP‐Ang1 promotes chondrogenic and osteogenic differentiation of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells through the Ang1/Tie2 signaling pathway
Authors: Kim Sokho , Lee Jeong‐Chae , Cho Eui‐Sic , Kwon Jungkee
Published: July 2013

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are pleiotrophic cells that differentiate to chondrocytes, osteoblasts, or adipocytes, as a result of crosstalk by specific signaling pathways including MAPK pathway. Recently cartilage oligomeric matrix protein angiopoietin1 (COMP‐Ang1), an Ang1 variant which is more potent than native Ang1 in phosphorylating Tie2 receptor was developed. The Ang1/Tie2 signaling system not only plays a pivotal role in vessel growth, remodeling, and maturation, but also protective and recruit effect on MSCs. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the differentiate effect of Ang1/Tie2 signaling on MSCs in the presence of chondrogenic, osteogenic and adipogenic induction medium, and to determine the possible mechanisms. Our results clearly demonstrated that MSCs cultured in each induction medium with COMP‐Ang1 revealed strongly chondrogenic and osteogenic morphological change (3.5‐ and 2‐fold, respectively) as well as up‐regulate each gene, except for adipogenic differentiation. Accordingly, we found that phosphorylation of Tie2 expression lead to phosphorylation of p38 and AKT and then accelerating each differentiation of MSCs to chondrocytes and osteoblasts. Therefore, our findings suggest that COMP‐Ang1 present a portal to promote MSCs differentiation to chondrocytes and osteoblasts through Ang1/Tie2 signaling pathway and provide insights into novel therapies for bone diseases. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31:1920–1928, 2013
Antimicrobial lysozyme–chitosan coatings affect functional properties and shelf life of chicken eggs during storage
Authors: Yuceer Muhammed , Caner Cengiz
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

The interior quality, shell impact strength and functional characteristics of eggs coated with chitosan and lysozyme–chitosan combinations were evaluated for enhancing egg freshness during storage. A 10% (w/w) lysozyme solution was incorporated into 1% (w/w) chitosan film‐forming solution at ratios of 0, 10, 20 and 60% (w/w).

RESULTS

Storage time and coating had significant effects on Haugh unit, yolk index, weight loss, albumen pH, dry matter, relative whipping capacity (RWC) and albumen viscosity. Uncoated eggs had higher albumen pH and weight loss and lower albumen viscosity. All coated eggshells showed greater puncture strength than uncoated eggshells, resulting in extended shelf life. The 20 and 60% lysozyme–chitosan coatings were more effective in maintaining the internal quality of eggs (e.g. pH, dry matter and RWC). Attributes such as pH, dry matter and RWC were better after the 20% lysozyme–chitosan treatment than after the other treatments.

Conclusion

The 10, 20 and 60% lysozyme–chitosan coatings, considered active packaging, showed promising attributes. They could be a viable alternative to existing techniques for maintaining the internal quality of fresh eggs during long‐term storage. Chitosan coatings also improved shell strength. This study also confirms that measurements of albumen quality (pH, dry matter, viscosity and RWC) are excellent indicators of egg freshness. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinic significance of microRNA‐99a expression in human lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Gu Wei , Fang Surong , Gao Lihua , Tan Yan , Yang Zhenhua
Published: July 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of microRNA‐99a expression in lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

qRT‐PCR assay was performed to detect miR‐99a expression in lung adenocarcinoma cells or tissues. The correlations of miR‐99a expression with clinicopathological factors and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients were analyzed. The effects of miR‐99a expression on growth and apoptosis of lung adenocarcinoma cell line and its potential target gene were determined by MTT, flow cytometry, luciferase reporter, and Western blot assays.

Results

The relative miR‐99a expression in lung adenocarcinoma cells was significantly lower than that in normal lung bronchial epithelium cell line. Also, miR‐99a expression in lung adenocarcinoma tissues was significantly lower than that in corresponding nontumor tissues. Low miR‐99a expression was found to be closely correlated with advanced clinical stage and lymph node metastasis. Kaplan–Meier survival and Cox regression analyses showed that the status of miR‐99a expression was an independent prognosis factor for lung adenocarcinoma patients. Functional analyses showed that upregulation of miR‐99a could inhibit growth and induce apoptosis in lung adenocarcinoma cells by targeting mTOR.

Conclusion

Low MiR‐99a expression was a poor prognostic factor for patients with lung adenocarcinoma, and miR‐99a functions as a tumor suppressor by targeting mTOR. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013 108:248–255. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous separation of triterpenoid saponins and flavonoid glycosides from the roots of Glycyrrhiza uralensisFisch by pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography
Authors: Xu Jinfang , Luo Jianguang , Kong Lingyi
Published: July 2013

Glycosides including triterpenoid saponins and flavonoid glycosides are the main constituents of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch (licorice) and exhibit prominent pharmacological activities. However, conventional methods for the separation of glycosides always cause irreversible adsorption and unavoidable loss of sample due to their high hydrophilicities. The present paper describes a convenient method for the simultaneous separation of triterpenoid saponins and flavonoid glycosides from licorice by pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography. Ethyl acetate/n‐butanol/water (2:3:5, v/v) with 10 mM TFA in the upper organic stationary phase and 10 mM ammonia in the lower aqueous mobile phase was used as the biphasic solvent system. Three triterpenoid saponins and two flavonoid glycosides including licorice‐saponin A3 (63.3 mg), glycyrrhizic acid (342.2 mg), 3‐O‐[β‐d‐glucuronopyranosyl‐(1 → 2)‐β‐d‐galactopyranosyl]glycyrrhetic acid (56.0 mg), liquiritin apioside (232.6 mg), and liquiritin (386.5 mg) were successfully obtained from licorice ethanol extract (2 g) in one step. This method subtly takes advantage of the common acidic properties of triterpenoid saponins and flavonoid glycosides, and obviously is much more efficient and convenient than the previous methods. It is also the first time that the separation of acidic triterpenoid saponins by using pH‐zone‐refining counter‐current chromatography has been reported.
Engineered Spider Silk Protein‐Based Composites for Drug Delivery
Authors: Hardy John G. , Leal‐Egaña Aldo , Scheibel Thomas R.
Published: July 2013

Silk protein‐based materials are promising materials for the delivery of drugs and other active ingredients, due to their processability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. The preparation of films composed of an engineered spider silk protein (eADF4(C16)) in combination with either a polyester (polycaprolactone) or a polyurethane (pellethane), and their physical properties are described. The release profiles are affected by both the film composition and the presence of enzymes, and release can be observed over a period of several weeks. Such silk‐based composites have potential as drug eluting biocompatible coatings or implantable devices.
The Effect of Consumer Multifactorial Gender and Biological Sex on the Evaluation of Cross‐Gender Brand Extensions
Authors: Ulrich Isabelle
Published: July 2013

Introducing cross‐gender brand extensions—masculine or feminine brands that extend to the opposite gender—is a growing trend on the marketplace, though not always a successful one. This research examines the effect of consumer multifactorial gender and biological sex on consumers’ evaluation of cross‐gender brand extensions. The influence of gender role attitudes is demonstrated: consumers with traditional gender attitudes are significantly more reluctant to accept these extensions than consumers with more liberal attitudes. Hence the extensions have a negative impact on the subsequent attitude of the former group toward the parent brand, contrary to their effect on more egalitarian consumers. No significant impact of the consumer's biological sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation is identified. The theoretical and managerial implications of these findings for the development of cross‐gender brand extensions are discussed.
Synthesis of Self‐Crosslinkable Water‐Borne Pressure Sensitive Adhesives
Authors: Treviño María Esther , Dubé Marc Arnold
Published: July 2013

Self‐crosslinkable acrylic pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) functionalized with 3‐isopropenyl‐α,α‐dimethylbenzyl isocyanate (TMI) are prepared by starved, seeded semi‐batch emulsion polymerization. n‐Dodecanethiol is used as a chain transfer agent (CTA) and EF‐800 as an anionic surfactant. A three‐level factorial design (32) is performed by varying the TMI and CTA concentrations. Increasing the TMI decreases the rate of polymerization. Nonetheless, high monomer conversions and zero coagulum are observed at the end of all reactions. The latexes are used to prepare PSA films for the evaluation of tack, peel strength, and shear strength. Crosslinking reactions caused by the isocyanate groups of TMI lead to films with very high gel content, even in cases where the CTA concentration is high. As a result, shear strength is greatly improved. The same films preserve sufficient tack but display low peel strength. Empirical models of the tack and peel strength data indicate that TMI has a significant effect on these properties.
Ethylene Polymerization Over Ph2C(Cp)(2,7‐t‐Bu2Flu)ZrCl2 Supported On SiO2‐MAO
Authors: Casas Emilio , Paredes Beatriz , Escola Jose María , Martin Carlos , van Grieken Rafael
Published: July 2013

Ethylene polymerization over heterogeneous [Ph2C(Cp)(2,7‐t‐Bu2Flu)ZrCl2] supported on SiO2‐MAO is studied. The influence of the main reaction variables is determined in ethylene homopolymerization: TEA concentration (88–702 ppm), temperature (55–85 °C) and pressure (3–12 bar). An optimum in the catalytic activity is achieved at TEA a concentration of 351 ppm, 85 °C and 8 bar of ethylene. At this ethylene pressure, all the polyethylenes show molecular weights above 400 000 g · mol−1. Using hydrogen as transfer agent, the activity is distinctly lower but it is possible to attain molecular weights below 40 000 g · mol−1. Regarding 1‐butene, it is observed good catalytic response in copolymerization, observing remarkable activities, higher than those obtained in homopolymerization.
Saturation recovery single‐shot acquisition (SASHA) for myocardial T1 mapping
Authors: Chow Kelvin , Flewitt Jacqueline A. , Green Jordin D. , Pagano Joseph J. , Friedrich Matthias G. , Thompson Richard B.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To validate a new saturation recovery single‐shot acquisition (SASHA) pulse sequence for T1 mapping and to compare SASHA T1 values in heart failure patients and healthy controls.

Theory

The SASHA sequence consists of 10 electrocardiogram‐triggered single‐shot balanced steady‐state free precession images in a breath‐hold. The first image is acquired without magnetization preparation and the remaining nine images follow saturation pulses with variable saturation recovery times.

Methods

SASHA was validated through Bloch equation simulations, Monte Carlo simulations, and phantom experiments. Pre‐ and postcontrast myocardial and blood T1 values were measured in 29 healthy volunteers and 7 patients with heart failure.

Results

SASHA T1 values had excellent agreement (bias, 5 ± 5 ms) with spin echo experiments in phantoms with a wide range of physiologic T1 and T2 values and its accuracy was independent of flip angle, absolute T1, T2, and heart rate. The average baseline myocardial T1 in heart failure patients was higher than in healthy controls (1200 ± 32 vs. 1170 ± 9 ms, P < 0.05) at 1.5T, as was the calculated blood–tissue partition coefficient, λ, (0.42 ± 0.04 vs. 0.38 ± 0.02, P < 0.05), consistent with diffuse myocardial fibrosis.

Conclusions

The SASHA sequence is a simple and fast approach to in vivo T1 mapping with good accuracy in simulations and phantom experiments. Magn Reson Med 71:2082–2095, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MRI measures of cerebral physiology
Authors: Ewing James , Lu Hanzhang
Published: July 2013

Watch a video introduction to this special issue.
Impact of a drug utilization review program on high‐risk use of prescription controlled substances
Authors: Daubresse Matthew , Gleason Patrick P. , Peng Yi , Shah Nilay D. , Ritter Stephen T. , Alexander G. Caleb
Published: July 2013

Background

Prescription drug abuse has prompted considerable concern. We evaluated a retrospective drug utilization review program to reduce controlled substance use among individuals with high‐risk utilization.

Methods

We analyzed pharmacy claims from a large pharmaceutical benefits manager. For each eligible member, we calculated a controlled substance score based on the number and type of claims, prescribers and pharmacies, and utilization patterns over three months. Two state health plans sent controlled substance letters to prescribers of members meeting or exceeding a plan‐ and pre‐specified controlled substance score. Two different state health plans did not send such letters. We used a difference‐in‐difference design and generalized estimating equations to quantify the impact of the program on the mean difference in reduction of the controlled substance score over six months.

Results

Eligible members in the intervention and comparison states had similar baseline mean controlled substance scores (19.0 vs. 18.6, p = 0.36). Adjusting for individuals' age, sex and pharmacy risk group score, reductions in the mean controlled substance score were greater in the intervention than comparison cohort (5.67 vs. 4.31, p = 0.01), corresponding with a 34.0% reduction in the intervention cohort compared to a 25.5% reduction in the comparison cohort. Changes were driven primarily by reductions in the number of controlled substance claims filled (30.5% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.01), as well as by a non‐statistically significant trend towards reductions in the number of prescribers and pharmacies used (26.9% vs. 20.1%, p = 0.07).

Conclusions

Retrospective drug utilization review programs may reduce controlled substance scores and claims among individuals with patterns suggesting high‐risk utilization. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aerosol filtration properties of nucleating agent containing electret filters
Authors: Kilic Ali , Shim Eunkyoung , Pourdeyhimi Behnam , Yeom Bong‐Yeol
Published: July 2013

This study reports on the effects of nucleating agents on morphology, charging, and electrostatic filtration performance of polypropylene meltblown webs. Two commercial nucleating agents, DMDBS (3:2, 4‐bis(3,4‐dimethyldibenzylidene) sorbitol) and NA11 (sodium 2,2′‐methylene‐bis(4,6‐di‐tertbutylphenyl)‐phosphate) were compared. It is hypothesized that faster solidification brought about by the addition of the nucleating agents may be responsible for the slight increase in fiber diameter and concomitant reduction in web solidity. Samples were charged at room temperature as well as at elevated temperatures. Upon thermal charging, significant enhancement in the electrostatic potential and filtration performance of the webs was observed. Particularly, the stability of electrostatic filtration performance was found to be promising with the addition of these polarizable additives. Dielectric spectroscopy tests confirmed an increase in capacitance for samples containing nucleating agents. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1533–1539, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Separation and adsorption properties of poly styrene‐graft‐ethyl methacrylate copolymer for zinc, copper, and cobalt ions in water samples
Authors: Ciftci Harun
Published: July 2013

In this article, separation and adsorption properties of poly styrene‐graft‐ethyl methacrylate copolymer for zinc, copper, and cobalt ions in water samples were investigated. For this aim, some experimental and analytical parameters such as solution pH, sample flow rate, type of eluting agent, and sample solution volume were optimized. The adsorbed metal ions on polymeric resin were eluted with 5 ml of 2 mol l−1 HNO3 and they were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. In optimized conditions, the adsorption capacities for Zn, Cu, and Co were obtained as 6.8, 5.2, and 7.5 mg g−1, respectively. The detection limits were calculated as 0.82 μg l−1 for Zn, 1.24 μg l−1 for Cu, and 0.68 μg l−1 for Co from standard deviation of the blank (50 ml, pH 5.8) measurements 10 replicates. The relative standard deviation of recoveries for seven replicate analyses of Zn, Cu, and Co ions (50 ml of 0.10 mg l−1) were found as 2.4, 2.8, and 1.5%, respectively. The accuracy of method was checked with certified reference material (NIST SRM 1643e, trace elements in water) and the developed method was successfully applied to tap water, commercial drinking water, and mineral water samples. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1555–1559, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preferences for and experiences of family involvement in cancer treatment decision‐making: patient–caregiver dyads study
Authors: Shin Dong Wook , Cho Juhee , Roter Debra L. , Kim So Young , Sohn Sang Kyun , Yoon Man‐Soo , Kim Young‐Woo , Cho BeLong , Park Jong‐Hyock
Published: July 2013

Background

Despite the important role that family caregivers play in providing emotional and practical support to cancer patients, relatively little is known about the family caregiver's role in treatment decision‐making (TDM). We sought to investigate patients' and family caregivers' preferences for and experiences of family involvement in TDM and factors associated with preference concordance.

Method

A national survey was performed with 990 patient–caregiver dyads (participation rate:76.2%). Questions examining preferences for and experiences of family involvement in TDM were administered independently to patients and family caregivers. Concordance was calculated with weighted kappa. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of patients' and caregivers' preferences for family involvement in TDM and concordance between them.

Results

Few patients or family caregivers expressed a preference for unilateral decision‐making; however, there was considerable variation and poor agreement within dyads in regard to whether the patient or family caregivers should take the lead in decision‐making with input from the other (weighted kappa between respondents for TDM preferences and experiences = 0.10 and κ = 0.18, respectively). Greater TDM preference concordance was associated with higher patient education, whereas lower levels of concordance were evident for younger patients, less educated caregivers, adult child patient dyads (as opposed to a spouse–patient dyads) and problematic family communication about cancer.

Conclusions

Most patients and family caregivers valued and expected family involvement in TDM. However, there is little explicit agreement in regard to which party in the dyad should take decisional leadership and who should play a supporting role. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of including a ‘psychooncological statement’ in the discharge summary on patient‐physician communication: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Book Katrin , Dinkel Andreas , Henrich Gerhard , Stuhr Claudia , Peuker Mareike , Härtl Kristin , Brähler Elmar , Herschbach Peter
Published: July 2013

Objective

The objective of this study is to determine whether the inclusion of a ‘psychooncological statement’ (PO‐statement) in the discharge summary enhances patient‐physician communication about psychosocial issues across the inpatient and outpatient sector.

Methods

A total of 1416 cancer patients were randomly assigned to the intervention (with PO‐statement in the discharge summary) or control group (discharge summary without PO‐statement). Shortly before discharge from the hospital (T1), patients from the intervention group were screened for psychosocial distress. Based on the electronic clinical documentation system, screening results were subsequently integrated into the discharge summary, which automatically generated a PO‐statement. To determine the effect of the PO‐statement, patients as well as their primary care physicians (n = 596) were asked during follow‐up care (T2) whether psychosocial distress was discussed during the last consultation.

Results

Including a PO‐statement in the discharge summary did not result in more frequent discussions about psychosocial issues compared with the control group from the patients' and physicians' perspectives. Instead, discussions about psychosocial well‐being were significantly associated with women of the patient (p = <0.001) and the physician (p = 0.011), medical discipline (gynecologists; p = 0.002), cancer diagnosis (gynecological cancer; p = 0.002), metastases (p = <0.001), professional training of patients (none, p = 0.026), and psychosocial qualification of physicians (p = 0.018).

Conclusion

Written information on psychosocial distress in the discharge summary alone does not affect communication. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of the Crystals Obtained by Precipitation of CL‐20 with Different Chemical Purity
Authors: Maksimowski Paweł , Skupiński Wincenty , Szczygielska Joanna
Published: July 2013

The precipitation of CL‐20 with different chemical purity is presented herein. Studies have shown that the first crystallization of the crude CL‐20 does not allow achieving the expected polymorphic purity and slightly increases chemical purity. Further precipitation processes result in gradual increase of the chemical purity about 1–2 % and in the improvement of the properties of crystals, i.e. density, polymorphic purity, and sensitivity to friction. This paper attempts a preliminary purification of the crude CL‐20 with columns filled with activated charcoal. A material of high purity, obtained by this process, was used in the process of precipitation. As a result of the crystallization a sample of CL‐20 was obtained with high chemical purity of 99.5 % and significantly reduced sensitivity to friction (128 N) and to impact (4 J). Additionally, samples of CL‐20, recovered from the filtrate after crystallization with a chemical purity of about 88 %, were purified on columns filled with activated charcoal. In this process a significant amount of impurities was removed and the purity was increased to 96 %.
Efficient certificateless encryption withstanding attacks from malicious KGC without using random oracles
Authors: Yang Wenjie , Zhang Futai , Shen Limin
Published: July 2013

As the key generation center (KGC) in a certificateless cryptosystem is no longer fully trusted, for practical applications, a secure certificateless encryption (CLE) scheme should withstand malicious KGC attacks. In this paper, we investigate practical CLE schemes withstanding attacks from a malicious KGC without resorting to random oracles. At first, we show the insecurity of the CLE scheme (ZW scheme) presented by Zhang and Wang. Although ZW scheme was proved to be chosen ciphertext secure without using random oracles, we find that it cannot resist attacks from a malicious KGC. We show an attack that demonstrates a malicious KGC can easily decrypt a target ciphertext using chosen ciphertext attack. After that, we introduce a new efficient CLE scheme. We prove its CCA2 security without using random oracles. Our new scheme not only gets rid of the security drawbacks of ZW scheme but also keeps its most distinctive feature of a short public key length. The formal security proofs of the new scheme are presented without using random oracles assuming the hardness of the decisional truncated q‐augmented bilinear Diffie‐Hellman exponent (q‐ABDHE) problem and the hardness of the decisional bilinear Diffie–Hellman problem. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dumbbells, Trikes and Quads: Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Nanoarchitectures Based on “Clicked” Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Sander Fabian , Fluch Ulrike , Hermes Jens Peter , Mayor Marcel
Published: July 2013

The controlled assembly of gold nanoparticles in terms of the spatial arrangement and number of particles is essential for many future applications like electronic devices, sensors and labeling. Here an approach is presented to build up oligomers of mono functionalized gold nanoparticles by the use of 1,3‐bipolar azide alkyne cycloaddition click chemistry. The gold nanoparticles of 1.3 nm diameter are stabilized by one dendritic thioether ligand comprising an alkyne function. Together with di‐, tri‐ and tetra‐azide linker molecules the gold nanoparticle can be covalently coupled by a wet chemical protocol. The reaction is tracked with IR and UV–vis spectroscopy and the yielded organic‐inorganic hybrid structures are analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. To evaluate the success of this click chemistry reaction statistical analysis of the formed oligomers is performed. The geometric and spatial arrangements of the found oligomers match perfectly the calculated values for the used linker molecules. Dimers, trimers and tetramers could be identified after the reaction with the corresponding linker molecule. The results of this model reaction suggest that the used click chemistry protocol is working well with mono functionalized gold nanoparticles.
An improved Pareto distribution for modelling the fault data of open source software
Authors: Luan Shao‐Pu , Huang Chin‐Yu
Published: July 2013

In the modern society, software plays a very important role in many application systems. Consequently, the main goal of project managers and software engineers is to deliver reliable software within very limited resource, time and budget during the software development life cycle. Presently, it is widely recognized that open source software (OSS) has developed as a new (and novel) form of both personal and aggregation production. In the past, some research has shown that the traditional Pareto distribution (PD) and the Weibull distribution models can be used to describe the distribution of software faults of OSS. However, there could be a negative value for the cumulative probability of the traditional PD model in some cases. In this paper, based on our past studies, a modified Pareto‐based distribution model, called the single‐change‐point 2‐parameter generalized PD (SCP‐2GPD) model is proposed. The method of choosing an appropriate change‐point is presented and illustrated. Some mathematical properties of the proposed model are also discussed. Experiments are conducted using several real OSS data, and evaluation results show that our proposed SCP‐2GPD model depicts the real‐life situation of the software development life cycle more faithfully and accurately. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Levator hematoma at the attachment zone as an early marker for levator ani muscle avulsion
Authors: van Delft K. , Thakar R. , Shobeiri S. Abbas , Sultan A. H.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Childbirth causes overstretching of the levator ani muscle (LAM), predisposing to avulsion. LAM avulsion has not been evaluated early postpartum using endovaginal ultrasound (EVUS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between hematomas and LAM avulsion using EVUS and palpation early and late postpartum.

Methods

Nulliparous women were studied prospectively at 36 weeks' gestation and within 4 days and 3 months postpartum. Palpation and high‐frequency three‐dimensional EVUS were performed. Two independent investigators reviewed the scans.

Results

No antenatal LAM avulsions were found (n = 269). 114/199 (57.3%) women seen early postpartum agreed to examination. 27/114 (23.7%) had well delineated, hypoechoic areas consistent with hematomas (100% agreement), 26 following vaginal delivery, one following emergency Cesarean section. In total, 38 hematomas were found (11 bilateral, 16 unilateral). Hematomas away from the attachment zone of the LAM to the pubic bone (n = 22) resolved. Hematomas at the attachment zone (n = 16) manifested as pubococcygeus avulsions 3 months postpartum. In addition to these 16 avulsions, we found another 20 at 3 months postpartum. 13/20 were not scanned early postpartum and in seven no hematomas were seen, but avulsion was seen early postpartum. Overall, LAM avulsion was found in 23/191 (12.0%) women (13 bilateral, 10 unilateral) 3 months postpartum. Hematomas were significantly associated with episiotomy, instrumental delivery and increased hiatal measurements. Palpation was unreliable early postpartum as only seven avulsions were diagnosed.

Conclusion

Hematomas at the site of LAM attachment to the pubic bone always result in avulsion diagnosed 3 months postpartum. However, one third of avulsions are not preceded by a hematoma at the site of LAM attachment to the pubic bone. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Climate modification and climate change debates among Soviet physical geographers, 1940s–1960s
Authors: Oldfield Jonathan D.
Published: July 2013

This review provides an insight into some of the main themes characterizing the work of Soviet physical geographers concerning climate during the decade following the Second World War. Post‐1945, pressure was placed upon geography via the state and the Academy of Sciences to ensure that its activities were of practical use to the development of the socialist economy and this was particularly evident in the case of work related to climate and climate modification. The review is divided into four main sections. First, it provides an understanding of the range of work carried out by physical geographers with respect to climate and related phenomena in the late 1940s and 1950s. Second, it focuses on the work of geographers and climatologists in relation to the heat and water balance at the earth's surface, which attracted considerable attention within geographical circles as well as more broadly within Soviet science during the 1950s. Third, it reflects upon the way in which Soviet geography utilized its understanding of climate systems in order to participate in national schemes concerned with the modification of the climate and the transformation of nature. Finally, the review highlights the maturing of climate modification debates among geographers and cognate scientists during the late 1950s and early 1960s with the emergence of competing discussions over the potential for human activity to result in both positive and negative consequences for the global climate system. WIREs Clim Change 2013, 4:513–524. doi: 10.1002/wcc.242

This article is categorized under:

Climate, History, Society, Culture > Disciplinary Perspectives
Molecular nature of voltage‐gated calcium channels: structure and species comparison
Authors: Tyson John R. , Snutch Terrance P.
Published: July 2013

The progression from one to three to 10, and in some instances more, voltage‐gated calcium channels within living organisms during the course of evolution has paralleled the development of complex neuronal and signaling pathway development. Over time, the core structural elements allowing movement of calcium across the cellular membrane in a voltage‐dependent manner have been built upon through the modification of the intra‐ and extracellular regions of the calcium channel protein structure. This has allowed the flow of calcium ions to be coupled to a broad spectrum of signaling and modulatory mechanisms that interact at both the intra‐ and extracellular surfaces. Changes in splice‐variant composition also provide another layer of complexity to the repertoire of possible calcium channels. From next generation sequencing techniques it is becoming clear that much more work remains towards furthering our understanding of the regulation and complexity of splice variation within single channel subtypes. Careful analysis needs to be undertaken within specific target tissues and cell types together with temporal aspects of development and disease pathophysiology in order to confirm that the correct splice‐variant context is considered. Subfamily‐specific calcium channel variations in both vertebrates and invertebrates provide the opportunity to identify both subfamily and organism specific blockers. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2013, 2:181–206. doi: 10.1002/wmts.91

Conflict of interest: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.

For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Lives that introns lead after splicing
Authors: Hesselberth Jay R.
Published: July 2013

After transcription of a eukaryotic pre‐mRNA, its introns are removed by the spliceosome, joining exons for translation. The intron products of splicing have long been considered ‘junk’ and destined only for destruction. But because they are large in size and under weak selection constraints, many introns have been evolutionarily repurposed to serve roles after splicing. Some spliced introns are precursors for further processing of other encoded RNAs such as small nucleolar RNAs, microRNAs, and long noncoding RNAs. Other intron products have long half‐lives and can be exported to the cytoplasm, suggesting that they have roles in translation. Some viruses encode introns that accumulate after splicing and play important but mysterious roles in viral latency. Turnover of most lariat‐introns is initiated by cleavage of their internal 2′‐5′ phosphodiester bonds by a unique debranching endonuclease, and the linear products are further degraded by exoribonucleases. However, several introns appear to evade this turnover pathway and the determinants of their stability are largely unknown. Whereas many stable intron products were discovered serendipitously, new experimental and computational tools will enable their direct identification and study. Finally, the origins and mechanisms of mobility of eukaryotic introns are mysterious, and mechanistic studies of the intron life cycle may yield new insights into how they arose and became widespread. WIREs RNA 2013, 4:677–691. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1187

This article is categorized under:

RNA Processing > Splicing Mechanisms

RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms