bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When soft waters becomes softer; drivers of critically low levels of Ca in Norwegian lakes
Authors: Hessen D. O. , Andersen T. , Tominaga K. , Finstad A. G.
Published: October 2016

In this study, we analyzed long‐term trends in calcium (Ca) concentrations for 70 Norwegian lakes spanning a broad geographical range and for a wide range of ambient drivers. A striking decline in Ca concentrations was observed during the past 30 yr. The trend was most pronounced in southern, previously acidified localities, while there were weaker and less consistent patterns for central and northern regions. For previously acidified areas, this observed decline in Ca is likely related to base cation depletion or reduced Ca mobilization as a consequence of reduced H2SO4‐deposition. However, lower chloride concentrations, increased runoff and forest density (represented by Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, NDVI) also exerted strong negative impacts on Ca‐concentrations. For lakes with a significant negative trend (n = 34), the average decline was −11.05% per decade, corresponding to −0.023 mg Ca L−1 yr−1. This trend may pull levels of Ca in these already Ca‐deficient poor lakes toward, or below, critically low levels for a range of organisms. A somewhat paradoxical effect of the successful battle against anthropogenic acidification is thus that it may impose an increased Ca‐deficiency of freshwater ecosystems.
Donor safety in living donor liver donation: An Italian multicenter survey
Authors: Lauterio Andrea , Di Sandro Stefano , Gruttadauria Salvatore , Spada Marco , Di Benedetto Fabrizio , Baccarani Umberto , Regalia Enrico , Melada Ernesto , Giacomoni Alessandro , Cescon Matteo , Cintorino Davide , Ercolani Giorgio , Rota Matteo , Rossi Giorgio , Mazzaferro Vincenzo , Risaliti Andrea , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Gridelli Bruno , De Carlis Luciano
Published: October 2016

Major concerns about donor morbidity and mortality still limit the use of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) to overcome the organ shortage. The present study assessed donor safety in LDLT in Italy reporting donor postoperative outcomes in 246 living donation procedures performed by 7 transplant centers. Outcomes were evaluated over 2 time periods using the validated Clavien 5‐tier grading system, and several clinical variables were analyzed to determine the risk factors for donor morbidity. Different grafts were obtained from the 246 donor procedures (220 right lobe, 10 left lobe, and 16 left lateral segments). The median follow‐up after donation was 112 months. There was no donor mortality. One or more complications occurred in 82 (33.3%) donors, and 3 of them had intraoperative complications (1.2%). Regardless of graft type, the rate of major complications (grade ≥ 3) was 12.6% (31/246). The overall donor morbidity and the rate of major complications did not differ significantly over time: 26 (10.6%) donors required hospital readmission throughout the follow‐up period, whereas 5 (2.0%) donors required reoperation. Prolonged operative time (>400 minutes), intraoperative hypotension (systolic < 100 mm Hg), vascular abnormalities, and intraoperative blood loss (>300 mL) were multivariate risk factors for postoperative donor complications. In conclusion, from the standpoint of living donor surgery, a meticulous and well‐standardized technique that reduces operative time and prevents blood loss and intraoperative hypotension may reduce the incidence of donor complications. Transparency in reporting results after LDLT is mandatory, and we should continue to strive for zero donor mortality. Liver Transplantation 23 184–193 2017 AASLD
Synergistic Effect of Clay Platelets and Carbon Nanotubes in Styrene–Butadiene Rubber Nanocomposites
Authors: Song Sung Ho
Published: October 2016

Nanoscale materials have provided a big advantage for enhancing the performance of rubber composites through leading the synergy effects in the physical and chemical properties. Here, the authors prepare hybrid fillers using a simple solution‐based method, based on electrostatic interactive assembly, of hydroxyl‐functionalized exfoliated montmorillonite (FE‐MMT) and cetyl trimethylammonium bromide‐modified multiwall nanotube (MWNT). The driving force of hybridization is due to specific interaction between the positive charge on the MWNT and the negative charge of hydroxyl group on MMT. To improve their dispersion, the obtained hybrid fillers are then co‐coagulated with styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) latex to prepare elastomeric composites. Homogenous dispersion of the hybrid nanofillers in the SBR matrix results in a remarkable improvement in mechanical properties such as modulus (0.31 MPa) and tensile strength (75 MPa) at low loadings. Moreover, the prepared composite of hybrid nanofillers and rubber in the SBR matrix exhibits outstanding thermal (0.3779 W m−1 K−1) and electrical conductivities (15 kΩ) and gas barrier performance (9.16 × 10−45 m4 s−1 N−1). The synergistic reinforcement of SBR achieved by the combined incorporation of MWNT and MMT makes it ideal for use in conscious tires. This research opens up a wealth of new opportunities to prepare high performance rubber composites for future engineering applications.

image
A note on the periodic solutions of a Mathieu–Duffing type equations
Authors: Zamora M.
Published: October 2016

By means of a new change of variable we prove the existence of a positive 2π‐periodic solution for the Mathieu–Duffing type equations having its nonlinearity a super‐linear growth. As result we can guarantee the existence of 2π‐periodic solutions even assuming that the parameter of the associated Mathieu equation is in the contentious zone of resonance.
An Evolutionary Process Model of Cause‐Related Marketing and Systematic Review of the Empirical Literature
Authors: Lafferty Barbara A. , Lueth Annika K. , McCafferty Ryan
Published: October 2016

Cause‐related marketing (CRM) is almost ubiquitous as brands of all price points participate in this marketing strategy in the United States and internationally, as well. The value that CRM brings to the firm, the consumer, and the nonprofit organization has made it a popular and valuable tool for marketers. Academic research on CRM has gained momentum in recent years as the strategy has matured. However, insights have occurred without a framework to provide structure and direction for this body of research. Given CRM's continued popularity, the purpose of this article is to (1) propose an evolutionary process model (EPM) of CRM to explain the iterative process (2) utilize this model as a framework for (a) organizing the systematic review of the empirical literature on CRM and (b) for identifying some gaps in the literature. Propositions based on these gaps are provided for future research.
A Molecular‐Dynamics Study of Size and Chirality Effects on Glass‐Transition Temperature and Ordering in Carbon Nanotube‐Polymer Composites
Authors: Malagù Marcello , Lyulin Alexey , Benvenuti Elena , Simone Angelo
Published: October 2016

Molecular‐dynamics simulations of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) embedded in a coarse‐grained amorphous monodisperse polyethylene‐like model system have been carried out. The roles of nanotube diameter and chirality on the physical and structural properties of the composite are thoroughly discussed for several CNTs with different diameter and chirality. It is shown that the glass‐transition temperature of the polymer matrix increases with the diameter of the CNT while chirality effects are negligible. A denser and ordered layered region of polymer matrix is found in the vicinity of the nanotube surface. The density and ordering of this layer increases with the CNT diameter. All simulations indicate that chirality does not affect the atomic structure of the highly ordered layer surrounding the CNTs. Despite the simplicity of the polymer model, results of this study are qualitatively comparable with those obtained from experiments and numerical simulations that consider a chemically specific polymer matrix.

image
Berechnung von Anrisslebensdauern auf Basis des Örtlichen Konzepts
Authors: Fiedler M. , Vormwald M.
Published: October 2016

Die Berechnung von Anrisslebensdauern auf Basis des Örtlichen Konzepts ist aktueller Stand der Technik. Im Rahmen des AiF‐Projektes Nr. 17.612 N/1 „Richtlinie nichtlinear“ wurden Lebensdauerberechnungen für einstufige und Betriebslastfolgen für die Werkstoffgruppen Aluminium und Stahl durchgeführt und analysiert. Die dabei verwendeten Algorithmen und ausgewählte Ergebnisse sollen innerhalb dieses Aufsatzes präsentiert und diskutiert werden.
Fatigue assessment of high strength leaf springs based on the FKM guideline
Authors: Giannakis E. , Savaidis G.
Published: October 2016

Analytical fatigue strength calculations based on the FKM guideline have been performed for hot tapered and stress‐shot‐peened high‐strength leaf spring specimens subjected to three‐point fatigue bending. The ultimate tensile strength of the decarburized specimens' surface has been approached by means of Rockwell‐C hardness measurements, and used as input for the approximation of its fatigue limit and mean stress sensitivity. Surface roughness and residual stress measurements were performed to take account for the technological life influencing factors. Fatigue tests at a constant mean stress and various stress amplitude levels were performed to determine the specimens' S–N curve and validate the calculation's accuracy. Comparison of calculated with experimentally determined fatigue lives, though satisfactorily, pinpoints the necessity for more accurate implementation of the stress‐shot‐peening process within the FKM guideline.
An analysis of free flap failure using the ACS NSQIP database. Does flap site and flap type matter?
Authors: Kwok Alvin C. , Agarwal Jayant P.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

We sought to use the NSQIP database to determine the national rate and predictors of free flap failure based upon flap sites and flap types.

Methods

Free flaps were identified using the 2005–2010 NSQIP database. We examined overall flap failure rates as well as failure rates based upon flap sites (head and neck, extremities, trunk, and breast) and flap types (muscle, fascial, skin, bone, and bowel flaps). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine predictors of flap failure.

Results

There were 1,187 microvascular free tissue transfers identified. The overall flap failure rate was 5.1%. Head and neck flaps had the highest rate of free flap failure at 7.7%. Prolonged operative time is an independent predictor of flap failure for all free flaps (OR: 2.383, P = 0.0013). When examining predictors of failure by flap site, free flaps to the breast with prolonged operative time are independently associated with flap failure (OR: 2.288, P = 0.0152). When examining predictors of flap failure by flap type, muscle based free flaps with an ASA classification ≥3 are associated with flap failure (P = 0.0441).

Conclusions

Risk factors for free flap failure differ based upon flap site and flap type. Prolonged operative time is an independent risk factor for the failure of free flaps used for breast reconstruction. An ASA classification ≥3 is associated with the failure of free muscle based flaps. Our findings identify actionable areas that may help to improve free flap success.
The novel treatment of SVF‐enriched fat grafting for painful end‐neuromas of superficial radial nerve
Authors: Calcagni Maurizio , Zimmermann Simon , Scaglioni Mario F. , Giesen Thomas , Giovanoli Pietro , Fakin Richard M.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

None of the existing treatments in the management of painful end‐neuromas of the superficial branch of the radial nerve (SBRN) has been proven superior due to high levels of pain relapse. Fat grafts enriched with the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) could act as a mechanic barrier with biological effects decreasing the resorption rate and boosting the graft's regenerative potential. This study describes the novel surgical treatment technique of SVF‐enriched fat grafting.

Patients and Methods

In this clinical study, five consecutive patients treated for painful end‐neuromas of the SBRN between 2012 and 2013 were analyzed retrospectively. Microsurgical resection of end‐neuromas followed by SVF‐enriched fat grafting around the nerve stump was performed in all patients. Five different pain modalities and various predictors were compared pre‐ and up to 36 months postoperatively.

Results

Pain reduction observed at 2 months after surgery was constant over time, though not statistically significant compared to preoperative levels. Spontaneous pain could be reduced from 1.6 ± 0.55 to 1.2 ± 1.1 (p = 0.414), spikes from 2.2 ± 1.3 to 1.4 ± 1.34 (p = 0.180), hyperaesthesia from 1.6 ± 1.14 to 1.2 ± 1.64 (p = 0.713), tap pain from 2.8 ± 0.45 to 1.8 ± 1.3 (p = 0.197) and motion pain from 2.8 ± 0.45 to 1.4 ± 1.34 (p = 0.066). An improvement in overall pain reduction could be observed from 2.2 ± 0.97 to 1.4 ± 1.26 3 years after the surgery (p = 0.104).

Conclusion

SVF‐enriched fat grafting represents another alternative to numerous available treatments of painful end‐neuromas of the SBRN. Our preliminary results could not show any significant difference in pain reduction following SVF‐enriched fat grafting. Further larger trials are required in order to evaluate the therapeutic potential of SVF‐enriched fat grafting.
Progress toward reaction monitoring at variable temperatures: a new stopped‐flow NMR probe design
Authors: Dunn Anna L. , Landis Clark R.
Published: October 2016

A stopped‐flow NMR probe is described that enables fast flow rates, short transfer times, and equilibration of the reactant magnetization and temperature prior to reaction. The capabilities of the probe are demonstrated by monitoring the polymerization of lactide as catalyzed by the air‐sensitive catalyst 1,3‐dimesitylimidazol‐2‐ylidene (IMes) over the temperature range of −30 to 40 °C. The incorporation of stopped‐flow capabilities into an NMR probe permits the rich information content of NMR to be accessed during the first few seconds of a fast reaction. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrafast NMR diffusion measurements exploiting chirp spin echoes
Authors: Ahola Susanna , Mankinen Otto , Telkki Ville‐Veikko
Published: October 2016

Standard diffusion NMR measurements require the repetition of the experiment multiple times with varying gradient strength or diffusion delay. This makes the experiment time‐consuming and restricts the use of hyperpolarized substances to boost sensitivity. We propose a novel single‐scan diffusion experiment, which is based on spatial encoding of two‐dimensional data, employing the spin‐echoes created by two successive adiabatic frequency‐swept chirp π pulses. The experiment is called ultrafast pulsed‐field‐gradient spin‐echo (UF‐PGSE). We present a rigorous derivation of the echo amplitude in the UF‐PGSE experiment, justifying the theoretical basis of the method. The theory reveals also that the standard analysis of experimental data leads to a diffusion coefficient value overestimated by a few per cent. Although the overestimation is of the order of experimental error and thus insignificant in many practical applications, we propose that it can be compensated by a bipolar gradient version of the experiment, UF‐BP‐PGSE, or by corresponding stimulated‐echo experiment, UF‐BP‐pulsed‐field‐gradient stimulated‐echo. The latter also removes the effect of uniform background gradients. The experiments offer significant prospects for monitoring fast processes in real time as well as for increasing the sensitivity of experiments by several orders of magnitude by nuclear spin hyperpolarization. Furthermore, they can be applied as basic blocks in various ultrafast multidimensional Laplace NMR experiments. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanomyographic responses during recruitment curves in the soleus muscle
Authors: Miramonti Amelia A. , Jenkins Nathaniel D.M. , Oza Preeti D. , Weir Joseph P. , Cramer Joel T.
Published: October 2016

Introduction

In this study we examined relationships among mechanomyographic (MMG), electromyographic (EMG), and peak twitch torque (PTT) responses as well as test–retest reliability when recorded during recruitment curves in the soleus muscle.

Methods

PTT, EMG (M‐wave, H‐reflex), and MMG responses were recorded during recruitment curves in 16 subjects (age 24 ± 2 years) on 2 separate days. The sum of the M‐wave and H‐reflex (M+H) was calculated. Correlations among variables and test–retest reliability were determined.

Results

MMG was correlated with PTT (mean r = 0.93, range r = 0.59–0.99), the M‐wave (0.95, 0.04–0.98), and M+H (0.91, 0.42–0.97), but was unrelated to the H‐reflex (–0.06, –0.56 to 0.47). Reliability was consistently high among most variables, but normalizing to the maximum value improved MMG reliability and the minimum detectable change.

Conclusion

MMG responses predicted 86%–90% of the variability in PTT, M‐wave, and M+H; thus, MMG may be a useful alternative for estimating twitch torque and maximal activation. Muscle Nerve 56: 107–116, 2017.
Warum der Tropfen nicht hält
Authors: Paven Maxime , Steffen Werner , Vollmer Doris , Butt Hans‐Jürgen
Published: October 2016

Keine Regentropfen mehr auf Brillengläsern und Autoscheiben, Flüssigkeitsbehälter lassen sich rückstandsfrei leeren – Oberflächen, von denen Flüssigkeiten abperlen, sind praktisch. Welche Oberflächen gibt es schon heute, wofür können sie genutzt werden und welche Prinzipien stecken dahinter?
Mit organischen Substanzen hemmen
Authors: Berg Thorsten
Published: October 2016

Interaktionen zwischen Proteinen steuern die meisten biologischen Prozesse. Diese Protein‐Protein‐Wechselwirkungen mit organischen Molekülen zu modulieren, eröffnet vielfältige Möglichkeiten, Proteinfunktionen zu untersuchen und menschliche Krankheiten zu behandeln.
Vesikel aus Polymeren
Authors: Einfalt Tomaz , Goers Roland , Gaitzsch Jens , Gunkel‐Grabole Gesine , Schoenenberger Cora‐Ann , Palivan Cornelia
Published: October 2016

Aus Blockcopolymeren lassen sich katalytische Nanokompartimente herstellen, etwa Vesikel. Diese mikro‐ oder nanometergroßen Strukturen imitieren in Zellen Organellen. Das macht sie interessant für medizinische Zwecke, denn in Vesikeln lassen sich Moleküle einlagern und in der Zelle wieder freisetzen.
Souverän auf der Jobmesse
Authors: Gajda Alina
Published: October 2016

Jobmessen bieten die ideale Möglichkeit, persönliche Kontakte zu knüpfen und sich bei Unternehmen über Einstiegschancen zu informieren. Hier lässt sich herausfinden, welches Unternehmen zu Ihnen passt, ob eine Stelle die Richtige für Sie ist oder wie ein Unternehmen und seine Mitarbeiter auftreten.
Stelle, Stipendium oder Stütze
Authors: Schmitz Karin
Published: October 2016

Werden Chemiedoktoranden an deutschen Unis anständig bezahlt? Oder hangeln sie sich von einem Sechsmonatsvertrag zum nächsten? Ist es eine Ausnahme, dass die Stelle oder das Stipendium bereits ausgelaufen ist und Doktoranden ihre Promotion „auf Arbeitslosengeld oder Hartz IV“ beenden oder ist das inzwischen die Regel? Müssen sie nebenher kellnern, um über die Runden zu kommen? Um diese Fragen zu klären, initiierte der GDCh‐Karriereservice die erste GDCh‐Doktorandenumfrage, unterstützt von der Abteilung Internet und Kommunikation. Die Online‐Umfrage lief vom 31. Mai bis 30. Juni 2016. Alle Daten wurden anonym erhoben.
Galmei: Autobahngold, Saxophon und Veilchen
Authors: Offermanns Heribert
Published: October 2016

Galmei ist ein berg‐ und hüttenmännischer Begriff für schwefelfreie Zinkerze. Das Dreiländereck zwischen Belgien, den Niederlanden und Deutschland war lange Zeit eine Hochburg bei der Galmeigewinnung und ‐verarbeitung zu Messing.
Stimmung in der Industrie
Authors: Seidl Markus
Published: October 2016

Führungskräfte in der Chemie‐ und Pharmabranche sind mäßig zufrieden
In vivo measurement of membrane permeability and myofiber size in human muscle using time‐dependent diffusion tensor imaging and the random permeable barrier model
Authors: Fieremans Els , Lemberskiy Gregory , Veraart Jelle , Sigmund Eric E. , Gyftopoulos Soterios , Novikov Dmitry S.
Published: October 2016

The time dependence of the diffusion coefficient is a hallmark of tissue complexity at the micrometer level. Here we demonstrate how biophysical modeling, combined with a specifically tailored diffusion MRI acquisition performing diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for varying diffusion times, can be used to determine fiber size and membrane permeability of muscle fibers in vivo. We describe the random permeable barrier model (RPBM) and its assumptions, as well as the details of stimulated echo DTI acquisition, signal processing steps, and potential pitfalls. We illustrate the RPBM method on a few pilot examples involving human subjects (previously published as well as new), such as revealing myofiber size derived from RPBM increase after training in a calf muscle, and size decrease with atrophy in shoulder rotator cuff muscle. Finally, we comment on the potential clinical relevance of our results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial variability and reproducibility of GABA‐edited MEGA‐LASER 3D‐MRSI in the brain at 3 T
Authors: Hnilicová Petra , Považan Michal , Strasser Bernhard , Andronesi Ovidiu C. , Gajdošík Martin , Dydak Ulrike , Ukropec Jozef , Dobrota Dušan , Trattnig Siegfried , Bogner Wolfgang
Published: October 2016

The reproducibility of gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) quantification results, obtained with MRSI, was determined on a 3 T MR scanner in healthy adults. In this study, a spiral‐encoded, GABA‐edited, MEGA‐LASER MRSI sequence with real‐time motion–scanner‐instability corrections was applied for robust 3D mapping of neurotransmitters in the brain. In particular, the GABA+ (i.e. GABA plus macromolecule contamination) and Glx (i.e. glutamate plus glutamine contamination) signal was measured. This sequence enables 3D‐MRSI with about 3 cm3 nominal resolution in about 20 min. Since reliable quantification of GABA is challenging, the spatial distribution of the inter‐subject and intra‐subject variability of GABA+ and Glx levels was studied via test–retest assessment in 14 healthy volunteers (seven men–seven women).

For both inter‐subject and intra‐subject repeated measurement sessions a low coefficient of variation (CV) and a high intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were found for GABA+ and Glx ratios across all evaluated voxels (intra−/inter‐subject: GABA+ ratios, CV ~ 8%–ICC > 0.75; Glx ratios, CV ~ 6%–ICC > 0.70). The same was found in selected brain regions for Glx ratios versus GABA+ ratios (CV varied from about 5% versus about 8% in occipital and parietal regions, to about 8% versus about 10% in the frontal area, thalamus, and basal ganglia).

These results provide evidence that 3D mapping of GABA+ and Glx using the described methodology provides high reproducibility for application in clinical and neuroscientific studies.
Direct Assembly of Prenylated Heteroarenes through a Cascade Minisci Reaction/Dehydration Sequence
Authors: Tan Dong‐Hang , Zeng Yao‐Fu , Liu Yao , Lv Wen‐Xin , Li Qingjiang , Wang Honggen
Published: October 2016

The prenyl group is an important component in bioactive compounds. Herein, we report the assembly of prenylated heteroarenes through a cascade Minisci reaction and acid‐promoted dehydration sequence. The use of potassium (3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbut‐1‐yl)trifluoroborate as a new coupling reagent allows the direct introduction of prenyl and 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbutyl groups to a wide variety of electron‐deficient heteroarenes. Synthetic application is also demonstrated.
The relationship between rheological behavior and microstructure of nanocomposite based on PA6/NBR/clay
Authors: Shemshadi R. , Naderi G.
Published: October 2016

Microstructure, rheological properties and their relationships of PA6/NBR/nano‐clay nanocomposite have been investigated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy imaging techniques were used to study micro‐structure. The nano‐clay dispersion was measured by small angle X‐ray diffraction. Frequency sweep, steady shear, startup shear transient, and startup shear free transient experiments were carried out to study rheological characteristics of nanocomposite. SEM micrograph revealed that nano‐clay decreased the size of rubber droplets to a half in comparison with samples without nano‐clay. Storage modulus of nanocomposite containing 7% wt nano‐clay exhibited frequency independent behavior because of physical network which formed in matrix, in contrast to pure PA6 which showed terminal storage modulus at low frequencies. Shear thinning at high shear rates was observed by addition of rubber to PA6 matrix caused by deformation of rubber droplets. Nano‐clay orientation in shear flow field accelerated non‐Newtonian behavior in steady shear experiment. Transient shear viscosity studies were used for measurement the strength of nano‐clay physical network. It was found that network breakdown is more stress consuming factor in comparison with nano‐particle orientation and hydrodynamic forces. Elongation transient viscosity studies showed that critical Hencky strain for linear–nonlinear viscoelastic transition shifted to higher strains by increasing nano‐clay concentration. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2403–2410, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
A trend toward smaller optical angles and medial‐ocular distance in schizophrenia spectrum, but not in bipolar and major depressive disorders
Authors: Wang Yi , Deng Yi , Li Zhi , Li Xu , Zhang Chen‐yuan , Jin Zhen , Fan Ming‐xia , Compton Michael T. , Cheung Eric F. C. , Lim Kelvin O. , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: October 2016

Minor physical anomalies (MPAs) are subtle signs of fetal developmental abnormalities that have been considered to be among the most replicated risk markers for schizophrenia‐spectrum disorders. However, quantitative approaches are needed to measure craniofacial MPAs. The present study adopted an imaging‐based quantitative approach to examine craniofacial MPAs across the spectrum of schizophrenia and affective disorders, to address their sensitivity and specificity. We sampled 31 patients with schizophrenia, 30 of their unaffected relatives, and 30 individuals with schizotypal personality traits, as well as 37 non‐schizotypal controls. We also examined 17 patients with bipolar disorder and 19 patients with major depressive disorder. Five craniofacial MPAs were measured on anterior–posterior commissure‐aligned T1‐weighted images of an individual's native brain space: medial‐ocular distance, lateral‐ocular distance, optical angle, maximum skull length, and skull‐base width. Compared to non‐schizotypal controls, patients with schizophrenia and their relatives showed a trend toward having smaller optical angles and medial‐ocular distance, while no difference was found in patients with bipolar or major depressive disorders, suggesting some degree of specificity to schizophrenia. Our approach may benefit future research on craniofacial MPAs as risk markers for schizophrenia‐spectrum disorders, and may eventually be useful in strategies to enhance risk stratification using multiple risk markers.
Neuropsychiatric aspects of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome: considerations in the prenatal setting
Authors: Bassett Anne S. , Costain Gregory , Marshall Christian R.
Published: October 2016

Most major neuropsychiatric outcomes of concern to families are not detectable by prenatal ultrasound. The introduction of genome‐wide chromosomal microarray analysis to prenatal clinical diagnostic testing has increased the detection of pathogenic 22q11.2 deletions, which cause the most common genomic disorder. The recent addition of this and other microdeletions to non‐invasive prenatal screening methods using cell‐free fetal DNA has further propelled interest in outcomes. Conditions associated with 22q11.2 deletions include intellect ranging from intellectual disability to average, schizophrenia and other treatable psychiatric conditions, epilepsy, and early‐onset Parkinson's disease. However, there is currently no way to predict how severe the lifetime expression will be. Available evidence suggests no major role in these neuropsychiatric outcomes for the congenital cardiac or most other structural anomalies that may be detectable on ultrasound. This article provides an outline of the lifetime neuropsychiatric phenotype of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome that will be useful to clinicians involved in prenatal diagnosis and related genetic counselling. The focus is on information that will be most relevant to two common situations: detection of a 22q11.2 deletion in a fetus or newborn, and new diagnosis of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome in a parent without a previous molecular diagnosis. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Life Gets Better and Better: Cultural Life Script Theory and Subjective Trajectories for Life Satisfaction
Authors: Shanahan Erin , Busseri Michael A.
Published: October 2016

Young adults typically believe that life gets increasingly satisfying over time. We examined the cultural life script as a source of these beliefs. In Study 1 (N = 1244), tabulation of previously published studies indicated that life script events are perceived as becoming increasingly positive over time between the ages of 10 and 30. Further, a specific series of 16 key life script events during this life stage was identified. These results were replicated in Study 2 (N = 100, Mage = 21.14, 51% female) based on young adults‘ perceptions concerning life script events in their personal life stories. Further, the perception that life script events in one's personal life story were becoming increasingly positive over time was linked with more steeply inclining subjective life satisfaction trajectories (i.e. recollected past < current < anticipated future life satisfaction). In Study 3 (N = 261, Mage = 18.5, 93.7% female), manipulating life script event information (number and positivity of events over time) within a personal life story had an additive impact on young adults‘ subjective life satisfaction trajectories. These findings reveal a robust connection between information contained with the cultural life script and the belief that life gets more and more satisfying over time. Copyright © 2016 European Association of Personality Psychology
Aggregation‐induced emission active 3,6‐bis(1,2,2‐triphenylvinyl)carbazole and bis(4‐(1,2,2‐triphenylvinyl)phenyl)amine‐based poly(acrylates) for explosive detection
Authors: Chua Ming Hui , Zhou Hui , Lin Ting Ting , Wu Jishan , Xu Jian Wei
Published: October 2016

Four novel aggregation‐induced emission (AIE)‐active poly(acrylates), in which AIE‐active luminogens 3,6‐bis(1,2,2‐triphenylvinyl)carbazole (BTPC) and bis(4‐(1,2,2‐triphenylvinyl)phenyl)amine (BTPPA) were linked to the polymer backbone via a flexible alkyl chain, were synthesized in high yields. Spectrofluorometric analysis of polymer nano‐aggregates in tetrahydrofuran/water revealed that PTPPA‐based polymers gave more sensitive fluorescence response to nitro‐aromatics including 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene than BTPC‐based polymers. Paper probes were also fabricated for solid‐state detection of explosives. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 672–681
Low‐temperature processing of polymer nanoparticles for bioactive composites
Authors: Li Xiang , Xu Jie , Wang Dan , Sha Ye , Chen Wei , Zhou Dongshan , Wang Xiaoliang , Sun Qing , Xue Gi , Li Linling
Published: October 2016

Utilizing an ingenious control over the enhanced segmental mobility of polymer chains, we proposed a novel low‐temperature processing strategy for polymeric materials, where the materials were processed substantially below their normal glass transition temperature. This state of art was achieved by the combination of the confinement effects and the stress‐induced effects on polymer nanoparticles. This method proved to be universal for various polymer systems, that is, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, and polyphenylene oxide. Compared with the traditional high‐temperature processing, the low‐temperature processing efficiently avoids thermal degradation, and the processed polymer maintains moderate mechanical properties. In addition, this approach provides a straightforward method for the preparation of heat‐labile bioactive polymer composites without biological surface modification. The prepared lysozyme/polystyrene composite exhibits excellent bactericidal activity and striking sustained release characteristics. This facile, universal and energy‐saving low‐temperature processing strategy is expected to open avenues toward expanding manufacturing methodology and the applications of polymeric materials, especially for bioactive composites, where conventional high‐temperature processing is not applicable. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 2514–2520
A descriptive survey of cancer helplines in the United Kingdom: Who they are, the services offered, and the accessibility of those services
Authors: Leydon Geraldine M. , Stuart Beth , Danquah Lisa , Ekberg Katie , Brindle Lucy , Latter Sue , Moynihan Clare , Salmon Peter , Howe Sonia , Stokoe Elizabeth , Little Paul
Published: October 2016

Background

There are more than 1500 UK health helplines in operation, yet we have scant knowledge about the resources in place to support the seeking and delivering of cancer‐related telephone help and support. This research aimed to identify and describe cancer and cancer‐related helpline service provision: the number of helplines available, the variety of services provided, and the accessibility of those services.

Method

This study used online national questionnaire survey sent to 95 cancer and cancer‐related helplines in the United Kingdom.

Results

A total of 69 (73%) of 95 surveyed cancer and cancer‐related helplines completed the survey. Most helplines/organizations were registered charities, supported by donations; 73.5% of helplines had national coverage. Most helplines served all age‐groups, ethnic groups, and men and women. Only 13.4% had a number that was free from landlines and most mobile networks, and 56.6% could only be contacted during working hours. More than 50% of helplines reported no provisions for callers with additional needs, and 55% had no clinical staff available to callers. Ongoing support and training for helpline staff was available but variable.

Conclusion

Although cancer helplines in the United Kingdom offer reasonably broad coverage across the country, there are still potential barriers to accessibility. There are also opportunities to optimize the training of staff/volunteers across the sector. There are further prospects for helplines to enhance services and sustain appropriate and realistic quality standards.
Cancer‐and‐treatment–specific distress and its impact on posttraumatic stress in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT)
Authors: Kuba Katharina , Esser Peter , Scherwath Angela , Schirmer Lena , Schulz‐Kindermann Frank , Dinkel Andreas , Balck Friedrich , Koch Uwe , Kröger Nicolaus , Götze Heide , Mehnert Anja
Published: October 2016

Background

In this prospective multicenter study, we investigated cancer‐and‐treatment–specific distress (CTXD) and its impact on symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

Patients were consulted before (T0, N = 239), 3 (T1, N = 150), and 12 months (T2, N = 102) after HSCT. Medical (eg, diagnosis and pretreatment) and demographic information, CTXD and PTSD (PCL‐C) were assessed.

Results

Random intercept models revealed that the sum score of CTXD was highest pre‐HSCT (T0), decreased by T1 (γ = −.18, 95% CI [−.26/−.09]), and by T2 (γ = −.10, 95% CI [−.20/−.00]). Uncertainty, family strain, and health burden were rated most distressing during HSCT. Uncertainty and family strain decreased from T0 to T1 (γ = −.30, 95% CI [−.42/−.17]; γ = −.10, 95% CI [−.20/−.00]) and health burden from T1 to T2 (γ = −.21, 95% CI [−.36/.05]). Women were more likely to report uncertainty (γ = .38, 95% CI [.19/.58]), family strain (γ = .38, 95% CI [.19/.58]), and concerns regarding appearance and sexuality (γ = .31, 95% CI [.14/.47]) than men. Uncertainty (γ = .18, 95% CI [.12/.24]), appearance and sexuality (γ = .09, 95% CI [.01/.16]), and health burden (γ = .21, 95% CI [.14/.27]) emerged as predictors of PTSD symptomatology across the 3 assessment points.

Conclusions

Our data provide first evidence regarding the course of 6 dimensions of CTXD during HSCT and their impact on PTSD symptomatology. Specifically, results emphasize the major burden of uncertainty pre‐HSCT and the impact of uncertainty and concerns regarding appearance and sexuality on PTSD symptomatology.
A new standard of visual data representation for imaging mass spectrometry
Authors: O'Rourke Matthew B. , Padula Matthew P.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

MALDI imaging MS (IMS) is principally used for cancer diagnostics. In our own experience with publishing IMS data, we have been requested to modify our protocols with respect to the areas of the tissue that are imaged in order to comply with the wider literature. In light of this, we have determined that current methodologies lack effective controls and can potentially introduce bias by only imaging specific areas of the targeted tissue

Experimental design

A previously imaged sample was selected and then cropped in different ways to show the potential effect of only imaging targeted areas.

Results

By using a model sample, we were able to effectively show how selective imaging of samples can misinterpret tissue features and by changing the areas that are acquired, according to our new standard, an effective internal control can be introduced.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Current IMS sampling convention relies on the assumption that sample preparation has been performed correctly. This prevents users from checking whether molecules have moved beyond borders of the tissue due to delocalization and consequentially products of improper sample preparation could be interpreted as biological features that are of critical importance when encountered in a visual diagnostic.
Insecticide resistance, control failure likelihood and the First Law of Geography
Authors: Guedes Raul Narciso C
Published: October 2016

Insecticide resistance is a broadly recognized ecological backlash resulting from insecticide use and is widely reported among arthropod pest species with well‐recognized underlying mechanisms and consequences. Nonetheless, insecticide resistance is the subject of evolving conceptual views that introduces a different concept useful if recognized in its own right – the risk or likelihood of control failure. Here we suggest an experimental approach to assess the likelihood of control failure of an insecticide allowing for consistent decision‐making regarding management of insecticide resistance. We also challenge the current emphasis on limited spatial sampling of arthropod populations for resistance diagnosis in favor of comprehensive spatial sampling. This necessarily requires larger population sampling – aiming to use spatial analysis in area‐wide surveys – to recognize focal points of insecticide resistance and/or control failure that will better direct management efforts. The continuous geographical scale of such surveys will depend on the arthropod pest species, the pattern of insecticide use and many other potential factors. Regardless, distance dependence among sampling sites should still hold, following the maxim that the closer two things are, the more they resemble each other, which is the basis of Tobler's First Law of Geography. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative metabolomics analysis of Callosobruchus chinensis larvae under hypoxia, hypoxia/hypercapnia and normoxia
Authors: Cui Sufen , Wang Lei , Qiu Jiangping , Liu Zhicheng , Geng Xueqing
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Insect tolerance to low oxygen (hypoxia) and high carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) is critical for insect control. On the basis of bioassay, metabolism profiles were built to investigate adaptive mechanisms in bean weevil under hypoxia (2% O2), hypoxia/hypercapnia (2% O2 + 18% CO2) and normoxia (control, 20% O2 + 80% N2) using gas chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (GC/TOF‐MS).

RESULTS

The growth and development of bean weevils were significantly suppressed by the two hypoxia conditions; hypercapnia enhanced the mortality, but after 24 days of exposure, the surviving insects emerged as adults earlier than those under hypoxia only. Metabolism profiles also showed striking differences in metabolites among the treatment and control groups, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Pairwise comparisons of the three groups showed that 61 metabolites changed significantly, 40 in the hypoxia group and 37 in the hypoxia/hypercapnia group relative to the control group, while only 16 were shared equally by the hypoxia and hypoxia/hypercapnia groups. Increased metabolites were mainly carbohydrates, amino acids and organic acids, while free fatty acids were decreased. Furthermore, the changes were strengthened by the addition of hypercapnia, but excluding free fatty acids.

CONCLUSION

The findings show that bean weevil has high tolerance to hypoxia or even hypoxia/hypercapnia at biologically achievable levels and provide more direct evidence for stored product insect mechanism regulation under hypoxia stress, especially free fatty acid regulation by hypercapnia but not by hypoxia. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Investigating the dynamics of error growth in ECMWF medium‐range forecast busts
Authors: Lillo Samuel P. , Parsons David B.
Published: October 2016

Despite steady and significant progress in the skill of global numerical weather prediction, ‘bust’ or ‘dropout’ events occur when forecast errors grow much larger than expected from the mean performance of the model. Researchers at the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) identified 584 bust cases for 6 day predictions over Europe utilizing the ERA‐Interim system as a fixed forecast model. Rodwell et al. proposed that the model's handling of mesoscale convective systems over North America, particularly during the spring, is a likely culprit for these busts. In our study, the 584 cases were examined through an empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of Northern Hemisphere 500 hPa heights during the 6 day forecast period. The cases were clustered according to their behaviour in the first EOF, revealing distinctly different pattern changes. Patterns are consistent with a low wave‐number Rossby train reflecting over Greenland and a higher wave‐number Rossby train trapped in the Atlantic waveguide. Analysis of the waveguide reveals increased definition of the southern reflecting boundary and an extension toward Europe during bust cases. The seasonal variation of these regimes is also examined, with the maximum in bust frequency taking place during September–October, when recurving tropical storms are common in the central Atlantic. Other seasonal peaks occur in the summer and winter, proposed to be associated with mesoscale convective systems over North America and east coast cyclogenesis. Overall, these results suggest that the busts are occurring in association with the triggering and amplification of Rossby‐wave activity across the Atlantic, leading to large‐scale pattern transitions.
Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopic offsets between diet and hair/feces in captive chimpanzees
Authors: Tsutaya Takumi , Fujimori Yui , Hayashi Misato , Yoneda Minoru , Miyabe‐Nishiwaki Takako
Published: October 2016

Rationale

Estimation of the stable isotopic offsets between tissue and diet is important for dietary reconstructions. Although stable isotopic studies of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) are increasing, the isotopic offsets in chimpanzees have never been studied. In this study, the carbon and nitrogen stable isotopic offset values in hair and feces were measured for 13 captive chimpanzees for the first time.

Methods

All consumed food items and quantities were recorded for each individual for 1 week. Food samples were typically collected three times, hair was collected 3 weeks after the experimental week, and feces were collected ad libitum during the experimental week. The stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios were measured using elemental analyzer–isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA–IRMS).

Results

As the results of Monte Carlo analysis, the estimated carbon and nitrogen offsets between the hair and diet were +3.0 to +3.9‰ and +2.8 to +3.7‰, respectively, for the 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The 95% CIs of the carbon and nitrogen offset values between the feces and diet were −1.6 to 0.0‰ and +1.2 to +2.7‰, respectively.

Conclusions

These offset values are generally consistent with those of the other primate species reported in previous studies. However, potential variations in the offset values due to dietary and physiological factors should be studied in detail in the future. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flood Effects Provide Evidence of an Alternate Stable State from Dam Management on the Upper Missouri River
Authors: Skalak K. , Benthem A. , Hupp C. , Schenk E. , Galloway J. , Nustad R.
Published: October 2016

We examine how historic flooding in 2011 affected the geomorphic adjustments created by dam regulation along the approximately 120 km free flowing reach of the Upper Missouri River bounded upstream by the Garrison Dam (1953) and downstream by Lake Oahe Reservoir (1959) near the City of Bismarck, ND, USA. The largest flood since dam regulation occurred in 2011. Flood releases from the Garrison Dam began in May 2011 and lasted until October, peaking with a flow of more than 4200 m3 s−1. Channel cross‐section data and aerial imagery before and after the flood were compared with historic rates of channel change to assess the relative impact of the flood on the river morphology. Results indicate that the 2011 flood maintained trends in island area with the loss of islands in the reach just below the dam and an increase in island area downstream. Channel capacity changes varied along the Garrison Segment as a result of the flood. The thalweg, which has been stable since the mid‐1970s, did not migrate. And channel morphology, as defined by a newly developed shoaling metric, which quantifies the degree of channel braiding, indicates significant longitudinal variability in response to the flood. These results show that the 2011 flood exacerbates some geomorphic trends caused by the dam while reversing others. We conclude that the presence of dams has created an alternate geomorphic and related ecological stable state, which does not revert towards pre‐dam conditions in response to the flood of record. This suggests that management of sediment transport dynamics as well as flow modification is necessary to restore the Garrison Segment of the Upper Missouri River towards pre‐dam conditions and help create or maintain habitat for endangered species. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.