bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolating the incentive salience of reward-associated stimuli: value, choice, and persistence
Authors: Beckmann Joshua S. , Chow Jonathan J.
Published: January 2015

Sign- and goal-tracking are differentially associated with drug abuse-related behavior. Recently, it has been hypothesized that sign- and goal-tracking behavior are mediated by different neurobehavioral valuation systems, including differential incentive salience attribution. Herein, we used different conditioned stimuli to preferentially elicit different response types to study the different incentive valuation characteristics of stimuli associated with sign- and goal-tracking within individuals. The results demonstrate that all stimuli used were equally effective conditioned stimuli; however, only a lever stimulus associated with sign-tracking behavior served as a robust conditioned reinforcer and was preferred over a tone associated with goal-tracking. Moreover, the incentive value attributed to the lever stimulus was capable of promoting suboptimal choice, leading to a significant reduction in reinforcers (food) earned. Furthermore, sign-tracking to a lever was more persistent than goal-tracking to a tone under omission and extinction contingencies. Finally, a conditional discrimination procedure demonstrated that sign-tracking to a lever and goal-tracking to a tone were dependent on learned stimulus–reinforcer relations. Collectively, these results suggest that the different neurobehavioral valuation processes proposed to govern sign- and goal-tracking behavior are independent but parallel processes within individuals. Examining these systems within individuals will provide a better understanding of how one system comes to dominate stimulus–reward learning, thus leading to the differential role these systems play in abuse-related behavior.
Mixed-ligand MnIIand CuIIcomplexes with alternating 2,2′-bipyrimidine and terephthalate bridges
Authors: Poleti Dejan , Rogan Jelena , Rodić Marko V. , Radovanović Lidija
Published: January 2015

The novel polymeric complexescatena-poly[[diaquamanganese(II)]-μ-2,2′-bipyrimidine-κ4N1,N1′:N3,N3′-[diaquamanganese(II)]-bis(μ-terephthalato-κ2O1:O4)], [Mn2(C8H4O4)2(C8H6N4)(H2O)4]n, (I), andcatena-poly[[[aquacopper(II)]-μ-aqua-μ-hydroxido-μ-terephthalato-κ2O1:O1′-copper(II)-μ-aqua-μ-hydroxido-μ-terephthalato-κ2O1:O1′-[aquacopper(II)]-μ-2,2′-bipyrimidine-κ4N1,N1′:N3,N3′] tetrahydrate], {[Cu3(C8H4O4)2(OH)2(C8H6N4)(H2O)4]·4H2O}n, (II), containing bridging 2,2′-bipyrimidine (bpym) ligands coordinated as bis-chelates, have been preparedviaa ligand-exchange reaction. In both cases, quite unusual coordination modes of the terephthalate (tpht2−) anions were found. In (I), two tpht2−anions acting as bis-monodentate ligands bridge the MnIIcentres in a parallel fashion. In (II), the tpht2−anions act asendo-bridges and connect two CuIIcentres in combination with additional aqua and hydroxide bridges. In this way, the binuclear [Mn2(tpht)2(bpym)(H2O)4] entity in (I) and the trinuclear [Cu3(tpht)2(OH)2(bpym)(H2O)4]·4H2O coordination entity in (II) build up one-dimensional polymeric chains along thebaxis. In (I), the MnIIcation lies on a twofold axis, whereas the four central C atoms of the bpym ligand are located on a mirror plane. In (II), the central CuIIcation is also on a special position (site symmetry \overline{1}). In the crystal structures, the packing of the chains is further strengthened by a system of hydrogen bonds [in both (I) and (II)] and weak face-to-face π–π interactions [in (I)], forming three-dimensional metal–organic frameworks. The MnIIcation in (I) has a trigonally deformed octahedral geometry, whereas the CuIIcations in (II) are in distorted octahedral environments. The CuIIpolyhedra are inclined relative to each other and share common edges.
Crystal structure of ethyl 6-bromo-2-[(E)-2-phenylethenyl]quinoline-4-carboxylate
Authors: Shrungesh Kumar T. O. , Naveen S. , Kumara M. N. , Mahadevan K. M. , Lokanath N. K.
Published: January 2015

In the title compound, C20H16BrNO2, the dihedral angle between the quinolone ring system mean plane (r.m.s. deviation = 0.018 Å) and the phenyl ring bridged by the ethynyl group, is 25.44 (14)°. There is an intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond forming anS(6) ring motif. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaC—H...O hydrogen bonds forming chains propagating along theb-axis direction.
Crystal structure of the Anderson-type heteropolyoxometalate; K2[H7CrIIIMo6O24]·8H2O: a redetermination revealing the position of the extra H atom in the polyanion
Authors: Joo Hea-Chung , Park Ki-Min , Lee Uk
Published: January 2015

The title compound contains a symmetric hydrogen bond in which the H atom does not lie on a crystallographic centre of symmetry. The structure of K2[H7CrIIIMo6O24]·8H2O, namely dipotassium heptahydrogen hexamolybdochromate(III) octahydrate, previously reported by Lee [Acta Cryst. (2007), E63, i5–i7], has been redetermined in order to locate the position of the seventh H atom in the anion. Six of the H atoms are bonded to the six μ3-O atoms and form hydrogen bonds of medium strength either to water molecules or to the terminal O atoms of other polyanions. The seventh H atom forms a very short hydrogen bond between two μ2-O atoms on adjacent polyanions. This short bond, together with two normal hydrogen bonds, link the two crystallographically distinct centrosymmetric polyanions into chains along [011], while the length of this bond [2.461 (3) Å] suggests that the H atom lies at its centre, but unusually for such a bond, this point is not a crystallographic centre of symmetry.
Crystal structure of the chalcone (E)-3-(furan-2-yl)-1-phenylprop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Vázquez-Vuelvas Oscar F. , Enríquez-Figueroa René A. , García-Ortega Héctor , Flores-Alamo Marcos , Pineda-Contreras Armando
Published: January 2015

The title chalcone derivative, C13H10O2, adopts anEconformation about the C=C double bond. The molecule is composed of a furanyl and a phenyl ring, bridged by an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl system, which are inclined to one another by 24.07 (7)°. In the crystal, molecules are connected by weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the carbonyl O atom acting as a trifurcated acceptor and C—H...π interactions, forming ribbons extending along thec-axis direction.
Crystal structure of 4-[(E)-(4-nitrobenzylidene)amino]phenol
Authors: Atioğlu Zeliha , Akkurt Mehmet , Jarrahpour Aliasghar , Ebrahimi Edris , Büyükgüngör Orhan
Published: January 2015

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C13H10N2O3, contains four independent molecules (I, II, III and IV). Molecule IV shows whole-molecule disorder over two sets of adjacent sites in a 0.669 (10):0.331 (10) ratio. The dihedral angles between the aromatic rings are 32.30 (13)° in molecule I, 2.24 (14)° in II, 41.61 (13)° in III, 5.0 (5)° in IV (major component) and 10.2 (3)° in IV (minor component). In the crystal, molecules are linked into layers lying parallel to (024) by C—H...O and O—H...O interactions. The layers interact by C—H...π and weak aromatic π–π stacking interactions [centroid–centroid distances = 3.8476 (16), 3.725 (3) and 3.733 (5) Å].
Crystal structure of ethyl (2S)-9-methoxy-2-methyl-4-oxo-3,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2H- 2,6-methanobenzo[g][1,3,5]oxadiazocine-11-carboxylate
Authors: Dhandapani A. , Manivarman S. , Subashchandrabose S. , Gunasekaran B.
Published: January 2015

In the title compound, C15H18N2O5, the methoxyphenyl ring makes a dihedral angle of 84.70 (12)° with the mean plane of the tetrahydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one ring. Both the pyran and tetrahydropyrimidin-2(1H)-one rings have distorted envelope conformations with the carboxylate-substituted C atom as the flap. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviapairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming zigzag chains propagating along [010], which encloseR22(8) ring motifs. The chains are linked by C—H...π interactions, forming a two-dimensional network parallel to (100).
Crystal structure of 3-(adamantan-1-yl)-4-(4-chlorophenyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole-5(4H)-thione
Authors: Al-Wabli Reem I. , El-Emam Ali A. , Alroqi Obaid S. , Chidan Kumar C. S. , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: January 2015

The title compound, C18H20ClN3S, is a functionalized triazoline-3-thione derivative. The benzene ring is almost perpendicular to the planar 1,2,4-triazole ring [maximum deviation = 0.007 (1) Å] with a dihedral angle of 89.61 (5)° between them and there is an adamantane substituent at the 3-position of the triazolethione ring. In the crystal, N—H...S hydrogen-bonding interactions link the molecules into chains extending along thec-axis direction. The crystal packing is further stabilized by weak C—H...π interactions that link adjacent chains into a two-dimensional structure in thebcplane. The crystal studied was an inversion twin with a 0.50 (3):0.50 (3) domain ratio.
Study on process technique of PCBs with ladder conductive lines
Authors: Li Xiaowei , Liu Jia , Zhang Shengtao , He Wei , Chen Shijin , Li Zhidan , Chen Jida
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to develop an ideal technique for the preparation of print circuit boards (PCBs) with ladder conductive lines on practical industrial process lines.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, the raw materials of ladder copper-clad laminates were prepared by plating double-sided copper-clad laminates with vertical plating line. Second, etching compensation experiments were designed and conducted to set up the relationships between etching compensation and width of conductive lines on ladder line print circuit boards (LLPCBs). Third, to evaluate the process technique for the preparation of LLPCBs through etching compensation, verification experiments were designed and conducted on a practical industrial process line, and the quality of lines on LLPCBs was observed and evaluated.

Findings

– Under the judgment of the quality of conductive lines on LLPCBs as well as the feasibility with a practical industrial process line, the process technique for the preparation of LLPCBs with etching compensation is a simple and reliable method which has the potential to be applied in the industry.

Originality/value

– It is the first successful report of a new method that produces LLPCBs with etching compensation and has the potential to be applied in the industry.
Cointegration between stock prices, dividends, output and consumption
Authors: Black Angela J. , McMillan David G. , McMillan Fiona J.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to empirically test for multiple cointegrating vectors in a holistic manner. Theoretical developments imply bivariate cointegration among stock prices, dividends, output and consumption where independent models identify key theoretical cointegration vectors.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper considers both Johansen and Horvath–Watson testing approaches for cointegration. This paper also examines the forecasting power of these cointegrating relationships against alternate forecast variables.

Findings

– The results suggest evidence of a long-run cointegrating relationship between stock prices, dividends, output and consumption, although not necessarily linked by a single common stochastic trend; each series responds to disequilibrium with greater evidence of a reaction from dividends and consumption – of note, output responds to changes in stock market equilibrium; and there is forecast power from the joint stock market–macro cointegrating vector for stocks returns and consumption growth over the historical average. Of particular note, other forecast models that include consumption perform well and suggest a key role for this variable in stock return and consumption growth forecasts.

Originality/value

– This is the first paper to combine the cointegrating relationships between stocks, dividends, output and consumption. Thus, the empirical validity of stated theoretical hypotheses can be analysed. The forecast results also demonstrate the usefulness of this. They also show that forecast models that include consumption perform well and suggest a key role for this variable in stock return and consumption growth forecasts.
Earnings smoothing around open-market share repurchases
Authors: Di Hui , Marciukaityte Dalia
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine whether firms engage in earnings decreasing management before share repurchases to mislead investors or to smooth earnings and improve earnings informativeness.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors examine discretionary accruals and cash flows around open-market share repurchases. The primary discretionary accruals measure is industry- and performance-adjusted discretionary current accruals estimated from cash-flow data.

Findings

– Results show that, firms experience temporary increases in operating cash flows and use negative discretionary accruals to smooth earnings before share repurchases. Firms with the highest pre-repurchase cash flows use the lowest pre-repurchase discretionary accruals. Moreover, pre-repurchase discretionary accruals reflect expectations about future operating cash flows. Firms with the strongest deterioration in operating cash flows after repurchases use the lowest pre-repurchase discretionary accruals. These findings suggest that repurchasing firms use earnings management to increase smoothness and predictability of reported earnings rather than to mislead investors.

Originality/value

– This paper provides an alternative explanation to the finding of negative discretionary accruals before share repurchases. It adds to the literature on repurchases and earnings smoothing by showing that firms use earnings management around share repurchases to smooth earnings.
A quantile regression analysis on corporate governance and the cost of bank loans: a research note
Authors: Chi Wuchun , Huang Huichi , Xie Hong
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to investigate whether there is heterogeneity in the relationship between the bank loan interest rate and its determinants using the quantile regression method and to reconcile some conflicting findings in prior literature.

Design/methodology/approach

– First, the effects of 18 determinants were examined on the bank loan interest rate using the ordinary least squares method (OLS). Second, it was investigated whether the relationship between the loan rate and its determinants is heterogeneous across quantiles of loan rates using the quantile regression method.

Findings

– Considerable heterogeneity was found in the relationship between the loan rate and its determinants. Specifically, a determinant that is beneficial for the bank loan rate, on average, as revealed by the OLS method may become unimportant or even detrimental for firms located at extremely high or low loan rate quantiles. By revealing extreme heterogeneity in the relationship between the loan rate and some of its determinants, the authors potentially explain two conflicting findings in prior literature.

Originality/value

– The conventional OLS method masks the heterogeneity in the relationship between the bank loan interest rate and its determinants. Quantile regression can be used to supplement the OLS estimates to gain a more detailed and complete picture of the relationship between the dependent variable and explanatory variables.
Thermal model and measurements of polymer laser sintering
Authors: Diller Timothy T , Yuan Mengqi , Bourell David L. , Beaman Joseph J.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the bulk energy transport processes in the build chamber environment before and during laser sintering (LS) to provide a basis for effective and accurate thermal control for the LS process. This leads to improved mechanical properties and geometrical tolerances for LS products and may be applied to optimize operation cycle times for the LS process.

Design/methodology/approach

– Computational models with two levels of complexity were built to explore the heat transfer mechanisms in the LS process. In a one-dimensional model (1D), the powder performed as a semi-infinite solid and heater flux to the powder surface was modeled with a heater control law. A two-dimensional (2D) fluid/solid finite element model of the build chamber and powder bins provided insight into the thermal processes in the build chamber.

Findings

– Numerical 1D simulations were verified with measurements from sensors embedded in the build chamber powder bed. Using a 2D model, computed powder surface temperatures during the warm up and build phases were verified with an infrared camera. Convective currents in the build chamber and non-uniformities in the distribution of temperature over the radiant heater surface were found to be substantial contributors to non-uniformities in the powder bed surface temperature.

Research limitations/implications

– Limited heat sources were analyzed. No three-dimensional model was built. Assumptions to decrease the part bed temperature difference were not tested.

Originality/value

– These simulation and experimental results may be used to enhance thermal control and operation efficiency during the LS process and to improve LS product mechanical properties.
In vitro corrosion analyses of heat treated cobalt-chromium alloys manufactured by direct metal laser sintering
Authors: Alifui-Segbaya Frank , Lewis Jeffrey , Eggbeer Dominic , Williams Robert John
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this research paper is to compare corrosion data obtained from additive-manufactured heat-treated (HRx) and non-heat-treated (NHRx) cobalt-chromium (Co–Cr) alloys. Heat treatments are indicated as necessary in complex intra-oral framework production by additive manufacturing to remove accumulated thermal stresses. However, heat treatments have been linked to corrosion in cast dental alloys. Currently, there are few publications on this subject for laser-sintered dental alloys required for academic review.

Design/methodology/approach

– Five rectangular specimens (n = 5), each with a total surface area of 10.27 cm2, were fabricated for the two groups. Specimens were immersed in an artificial saliva solution suspended by a nylon thread for 42 days at 37°C. Readings for Co, Cr and molybdenum ions released into the solution were obtained using an atomic absorption spectrometer at 1-, 4-, 7-, 14-, 21-, 28-, 35- and 42-day intervals at a detection limit of one part per million. Test methods are in accordance with ISO 10271.

Findings

– Results showed a higher ion release in the HRx sample, statistically significant at 99 per cent confidence level (p < 0.01). A two-way ANOVA test conducted showed that there was a main effect of day and a main effect of finish, and there was also a significant interaction between these factors.

Originality/value

– The study concludes that, although ion release in both samples was within the safe level recommended by ISO for the three major alloying elements, heat treatment, indeed, contributed extensively to the reduced corrosion resistance in the laser-sintered Co–Cr alloy. Further biocompatibility tests are recommended.
Environmental, health, and safety issues in rapid prototyping
Authors: Short D. B , Sirinterlikci A. , Badger P. , Artieri B.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This study aims to investigate the potential impacts of rapid prototyping systems on the health and safety of operators and the environment, a growing concern given its wide-spread use in industry and academia.

Design/methodology/approach

– Materials, processing and equipment features were used to identify potential health and safety risks and hazards, as well as environmental effects.

Findings

– The study concludes with a “best practices” guide for rapid prototyping laboratories and service bureaus.

Originality/value

– A thorough literature search revealed that Stephen M. Deak, the Rapid Prototyping Department Manager at Hasbro Inc., is the pioneer of the safety and health concerns in the rapid prototyping area. He is the only person to publish papers in this field in addition to these authors’ recent publications. His papers focused on the rapid prototyping laboratory safety guidelines and safe work practices in the rapid prototyping area.
Supports effect on tensile strength of the stereolithography parts
Authors: Kazemi M. , Rahimi A.R.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to investigate the influences of the supports on tensile strength (TS) of stereolithography (SL) parts.

Design/methodology/approach

– The shape of specimens (tensile specimens) is according to the American Society Testing and Materials (ASTM) D638 standard. Some parts have support trace on one side and some have support trace on both sides. To achieve this target, some parts are fabricated on other parts; therefore, support of the upper part is fabricated on upper face of lower part.

Findings

– Influences of supports traces on mechanical properties aren’t “zero”. Supports affect TS of SL parts by affecting surface roughness of parts. After experimentation and analyzing experimental results, it is concluded that the TS of the parts which have support on both sides is slightly lower than the parts which have support just on one side.

Originality/value

– This is the first attempt toward investigation of supports effects on the mechanical properties in SL parts.
Multiple plant traits shape the genetic basis of herbivore community assembly
Authors: Barbour Matthew A. , Rodriguez‐Cabal Mariano A. , Wu Elizabeth T. , Julkunen‐Tiitto Riitta , Ritland Carol E. , Miscampbell Allyson E. , Jules Erik S. , Crutsinger Gregory M.
Published: January 2015

Community genetics research has posited a genetic basis to the assembly of ecological communities. For arthropod herbivores in particular, there is strong support that genetic variation in host plants is a key factor shaping their diversity and composition. However, the specific plant phenotypes underlying herbivore responses remain poorly explored for most systems.

We address this knowledge gap by examining the influence of both genetic and phenotypic variation in a dominant host‐plant species, Salix hookeriana, on its associated arthropod herbivore community in a common garden experiment. Specifically, we surveyed herbivore responses among five different arthropod feeding guilds to 26 distinct S. hookeriana genotypes. Moreover, we quantified the heritability of a suite of plant traits that determine leaf quality (e.g. phenolic compounds, trichomes, specific leaf area, C : N) and whole‐plant architecture, to identify which traits best accounted for herbivore community responses to S. hookeriana genotype.

We found that total herbivore abundance and community composition differed considerably among S. hookeriana genotypes, with strong and independent responses of several species and feeding guilds driving these patterns. We also found that leaf phenolic chemistry displayed extensive heritable variation, whereas leaf physiology and plant architecture tended to be less heritable. Of these traits, herbivore responses were primarily associated with leaf phenolics and plant architecture; however, different herbivore species and feeding guilds were associated with different sets of traits. Despite our thorough trait survey, plant genotype remained a significant predictor of herbivore responses in most trait association analyses, suggesting that unmeasured host‐plant characteristics and/or interspecific interactions were also contributing factors.

Taken together, our results support that the genetic basis of herbivore community assembly occurs through a suite of plant traits for different herbivore species and feeding guilds. Still, identifying these phenotypic mechanisms requires measuring a broad range of plant traits and likely further consideration of how these traits affect interspecific interactions.
Monitoring viscosity changes from time‐lapse seismic attenuation: case study from a heavy oil reservoir
Authors: Shabelansky Andrey H. , Malcolm Alison , Fehler Michael
Published: January 2015

Heating heavy oil reservoirs is a common method for reducing the high viscosity of heavy oil and thus increasing the recovery factor. Monitoring of these viscosity changes in the reservoir is essential for delineating the heated region and controlling production. In this study, we present an approach for estimating viscosity changes in a heavy oil reservoir. The approach consists of three steps: measuring seismic wave attenuation between reflections from above and below the reservoir, constructing time‐lapse Q and Q−1 factor maps, and interpreting these maps using Kelvin–Voigt and Maxwell viscoelastic models. We use a 4D relative spectrum method to measure changes in attenuation. The method is tested with synthetic seismic data that are noise free and data with additive Gaussian noise to show the robustness and the accuracy of the estimates of the Q‐factor. The results of the application of the method to a field data set exhibit alignment of high attenuation zones along the steam‐injection wells, and indicate that temperature dependent viscosity changes in the heavy oil reservoir can be explained by the Kelvin–Voigt model.
Isolation and Identification of Phenolic Antioxidants in Black Rice Bran
Authors: Jun Hyun‐Il , Shin Jae‐Wook , Song Geun‐Seoup , Kim Young‐Soo
Published: January 2015

Black rice bran contains phenolic compounds of a high antioxidant activity. In this study, the 40% acetone extract of black rice bran was sequentially fractionated to obtain 5 fractions. Out of the 5 fractions, ethyl acetate fraction was subfractionated using the Sephadex LH‐20 chromatography. The antioxidant activity of phenolic compounds in the extracts was investigated by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical assay, 2,2‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylenebenzothiozoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical cation assay, reducing power. The subfraction 2 from ethyl acetate fraction had the highest total phenolic contents (TPC) (816.0 μg/mg) and the lowest EC50 values (47.8 μg/mL for DPPH radical assay, 112.8 μg/mL for ABTS radical cation assay, and 49.2 μg/mL for reducing power). These results were 3.1, 1.3, and 2.6 times lower than those of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), respectively. At a concentration of 100 μg/mL, the antioxidant activity and TPC of various extracts was closely correlated, with correlation coefficients (R2) higher than 0.86. The major phenolic acid in subfraction 2 was identified as ferulic acid (178.3 μg/mg) by HPLC and LC‐ESI/MS/MS analyses. Our finding identified ferulic acid as a major phenolic compound in black rice bran, and supports the potential use of black rice bran as a natural source of antioxidant.
Diversity of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Brazilian Water Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese
Authors: Silva Luana Faria , Casella Tiago , Gomes Elisangela Soares , Nogueira Mara Correa Lelles , De Dea Lindner Juliano , Penna Ana Lúcia Barretto
Published: January 2015

The water buffalo mozzarella cheese is a typical Italian cheese which has been introduced in the thriving Brazilian market in the last 10 y, with good acceptance by its consumers. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play an important role in the technological and sensory quality of mozzarella cheese. In this study, the aim was to evaluate the diversity of the autochthones viable LAB isolated from water buffalo mozzarella cheese under storage. Samples were collected in 3 independent trials in a dairy industry located in the southeast region of Brazil, on the 28th day of storage, at 4 ºC. The LAB were characterized by Gram staining, catalase test, capacity to assimilate citrate, and production of CO2 from glucose. The diversity of LAB was evaluated by RAPD‐PCR (randomly amplified polymorphic DNA‐polymerase chain reaction), 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and by Vitek 2 system. Twenty LAB strains were isolated and clustered into 12 different clusters, and identified as Streptococcus thermophilus, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus durans, Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, and Lactobacillus helveticus. Enterococcus species were dominant and citrate‐positive. Only the strains of L. mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides and L. fermentum produced CO2 from glucose and were citrate‐positive, while L. casei was only citrate positive. This is the first report which elucidates the LAB diversity involved in Brazilian water buffalo mozzarella cheese. Furthermore, the results show that despite the absence of natural whey cultures as starters in production, the LAB species identified are the ones typically found in mozzarella cheese.
Prospective Relationship Between Poor Sleep and Substance‐Related Problems in a National Sample of Adolescents
Authors: Wong Maria M. , Robertson Gail C. , Dyson Rachel B.
Published: January 2015

Background

Previous studies showed that poor sleep prospectively predicted alcohol‐related problems and illicit drug use in adolescents and young adults (Wong and Brower, 2012; Wong et al., 2010). However, more work needs to be done to elucidate the nature of these problems. The purpose of this study was to examine whether sleep difficulties and hours of sleep prospectively predicted several serious substance‐related problems, for example, binge drinking, driving under the influence of alcohol, and risky sexual behavior.

Methods

Study participants were 6,504 adolescents from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Data were collected from interviews and questionnaires. This study analyzed data from the first 3 waves of data (T1: 1994 to 1995; T2: 1996; T3: 2001 to 2002). In all analyses, we used sleep difficulties at a previous wave to predict substance‐related problems at a subsequent wave, while controlling for substance‐related problems at a previous wave.

Results

Holding T1 alcohol‐related problems constant, sleep difficulties at T1 significantly predicted alcohol‐related interpersonal problems, binge drinking, gotten drunk or very high on alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol, getting into a sexual situation one later regretted due to drinking, ever using any illicit drugs, and drug‐related problems at T2. T1 hours of sleep negatively predicted T2 alcohol‐related interpersonal problems and binge drinking. The relationship between T2 sleep variables and T3 substance‐related problems was consistent with previous waves, although the effect was weaker.

Conclusions

Sleep difficulties and hours of sleep are a significant predictor of a number of substance‐related problems. It may be useful to educate adolescents about the importance of sleep, sleep hygiene, and the potential consequences of poor sleep on drinking and related behaviors.
The Acute Effects of Alcohol on Sleep Electroencephalogram Power Spectra in Late Adolescence
Authors: Chan Julia K. M. , Trinder John , Colrain Ian M. , Nicholas Christian L.
Published: January 2015

Background

Alcohol's effect on sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) power spectra during late adolescence is of interest given that this age group shows both dramatic increases in alcohol consumption and major sleep‐related developmental changes in quantitative EEG measures. This study examined the effect of alcohol on sleep EEG power spectra in 18‐ to 21‐year‐old college students.

Methods

Participants were 24 (12 female) healthy 18‐ to 21‐year‐old social drinkers. Participants underwent 2 conditions: presleep alcohol and placebo, followed by standard polysomnography with comprehensive EEG recordings.

Results

After alcohol, mean breath alcohol concentration at lights‐out was 0.084%. Interaction effects indicated simultaneous increases in frontal non‐rapid eye movement sleep (NREM) delta (p = 0.031) and alpha (p = 0.005) power in the first sleep cycles following alcohol consumption which was most prominent at frontal scalp sites (p < 0.001). A decrease in sigma power (p = 0.001) was also observed after alcohol.

Conclusions

As hypothesized, alcohol increased slow wave sleep‐related NREM delta power. However, there was a simultaneous increase in frontal alpha power. Results suggest that alcohol may exert an arousal influence which may compete with the sleep maintenance influence of increased delta activity. The phenomenon is similar to, or the same as, alpha‐delta sleep which has been associated with the presence of disruptive stimuli during sleep. This may have negative implications for the impact of presleep alcohol consumption on sleep and consequent daytime functioning.
A Novel, Intelligent, Pressure‐Sensing Colostomy Plug for Reducing Fecal Leakage
Authors: Chen Fei , Li Zhi‐chao , Li Qiang , Liang Fei‐Xue , Guo Xiong‐bo , Huang Zong‐hai
Published: January 2015

This study aims to describe and report the effectiveness of a novel, pressure‐sensing colostomy plug for reducing fecal leakage. Nine miniature Tibetan pigs, aged 6–8 months, were given colostomies and divided into three groups (n = 3 each group). A novel pressure‐sensing colostomy plug was placed in each pig and set to indicate when intestinal pressures of either 5, 10, or 15 mm Hg, respectively, were reached. When the pressure thresholds were reached, the animals' bowels were examined for the presence of stool and/or stomal leakage, and the data were recorded at weeks 1, 4, and 8 after surgery. The colostomy plug calibrated to 15 mm Hg pressure demonstrated the greatest accuracy in predicting the presence of stool in the bowels of study animals, averaging >90% sensitivity. In general, the sensitivity for predicting the presence of stool did not vary significantly over time, though there was a slight increase in accuracy in the 5 mm Hg group at later time‐points. The sensitivity for predicting stool in the bowel did not change significantly over time in any of the three groups. Stomal leakage was found to be inversely proportional to the pressure‐sensor setting, in that the 15 mm Hg group exhibited the greatest amount of leakage. This difference, however, was found to be significant only at week 1 postsurgery. The intelligent, pressure‐sensing colostomy plug was able to accurately predict the presence of stool in the bowel and maintain continence, allowing negligible leakage.
A New Asymmetric Directional Microphone Algorithm With Automatic Mode‐Switching Ability for Binaural Hearing Support Devices
Authors: Kim Jinryoul , Nam Kyoung Won , Yook Sunhyun , Jang Dong Pyo , Kim In Young , Hong Sung Hwa
Published: January 2015

For hearing support devices, it is important to minimize the negative effect of ambient noises for speech recognition but also, at the same time, supply natural ambient sounds to the hearing‐impaired person. However, conventional fixed bilateral asymmetric directional microphone (DM) algorithms cannot perform in such a way when the DM‐mode device and a dominant noise (DN) source are placed on the same lateral hemisphere. In this study, a new binaural asymmetric DM algorithm that can overcome the defects of conventional algorithms is proposed. The proposed algorithm can estimate the position of a specific DN in the 90°–270° range and switch directional‐ and omnidirectional‐mode devices automatically if the DM‐mode device and the DN are placed in opposite lateral hemispheres. Computer simulation and KEMAR mannequin recording tests demonstrated that the performance of the conventional algorithm deteriorated when the DM‐mode device and the DN were placed in the opposite hemisphere; in contrast, the performance of the proposed algorithm was consistently maintained regardless of directional variations in the DN. Based on these experimental results, the proposed algorithm may be able to improve speech quality and intelligibility for hearing‐impaired persons who have similar degrees of hearing impairment in both ears.
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐3 and MMP‐9, and TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2 and TIMP‐3) and markers for vascularization in functioning and non‐functioning bleb capsules of glaucoma drainage implants
Authors: Välimäki Juha , Uusitalo Hannu
Published: January 2015

Purpose

To investigate and compare functioning versus non‐functioning glaucoma drainage implant (GDI) capsules for selective markers of extracellular matrix degradation and vascularity.

Methods

In three samples of both functioning and non‐functioning blebs, immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of MMP‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐3, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, TIMP‐3 and CD31. A non‐functioning bleb was defined as IOP >21 mmHg or <20% reduction in IOP from baseline with maximal tolerated medication. The samples were classified into five grades based on immunostaining: no staining, no significant staining, mild, moderate or marked staining.

Results

Expression of MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and MMP‐3 was mostly low in both functioning and non‐functioning blebs. However, immunostaining of MMP‐9 was marked in samples taken from functioning GDIs and correlated with the presence of vascular profiles in the luminal bleb. CD31 immunoreactivity was more intense in the outer layers of the bleb than in the inner layers. In non‐functioning blebs, immunoreactivity for TIMP‐3 was significant through the whole bleb wall, but only mild in the inner zone of functioning blebs. TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 were barely detectable.

Conclusion

Staining of TIMP‐3 was seen to be lower in the vicinity of the small blood vessels. In avascular bleb wall, increased expression of TIMP‐3 suggests its potential role in the inhibition of angiogenesis as reported previously in vivo. The abundance of MMP‐9 in bleb capsule wall of relatively old patients might lead to weakened bleb capsule wall architecture and increasing filtration of aqueous humour through the capsule, which are reflected in a lower IOP.
Implementing Kangaroo mother care in a resource‐limited setting in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Pervin Jesmin , Gustafsson Frida E , Moran Allisyn C , Roy Suchismita , Persson Lars Åke , Rahman Anisur
Published: January 2015

Aim

This study evaluated stable and unstable low birthweight infants admitted to a Kangaroo mother care (KMC) unit at a resource‐limited rural hospital in Bangladesh.

Methods

This was a descriptive consecutive patient series study of 423 low birthweight neonates <2500 g enrolled from July 2007 to December 2010. KMC was initiated as soon as possible after birth, regardless of health, and we monitored skin‐to‐skin contact, weight gain, exclusive breastfeeding, length of hospital stay and death rates.

Results

Mean birthweight was 1796 g, and mean gestational age was 34.9 weeks. Mean (median, 90th percentile) time of skin‐to‐skin initiation for stable and unstable neonates was 1.1 h (0.3–2.5) and 1.7 h (0.3–3.0), respectively. Adjusted mean daily skin‐to‐skin contact duration was significantly higher for unstable infants. About 99% of neonates were exclusively breastfed. The death rate was 8.3% (stable 1.9%, unstable 19%) at discharge. Neonatal mortality rate was 90 per 1000 live births (stable: 23 per 1000; unstable: 203 per 1000).

Conclusion

Skin‐to‐skin duration was higher for unstable than stable low birthweight infants, and exclusive breastfeeding was almost universal at discharge. KMC was suitable for unstable infants and may be successfully implemented in resource‐limited hospitals.
Noradrenaline enhances angiotensin II responses via p38 MAPK activation after hypoxia/re‐oxygenation in renal interlobar arteries
Authors: Kaufmann J. , Martinka P. , Moede O. , Sendeski M. , Steege A. , Fähling M. , Hultström M. , Gaestel M. , Moraes‐Silva I. C. , Nikitina T. , Liu Z. Z. , Zavaritskaya O. , Patzak A.
Published: January 2015

Aim

Hypoxia and sympathetic activation are main factors in the pathogenesis of acute kidney injury (AKI). We tested the hypothesis that noradrenaline (NE) in combination with hypoxia aggravates the vasoreactivity of renal arteries after hypoxia/re‐oxygenation (H/R). We tested the role of adrenergic receptors and p38 MAPK using an in vitro H/R protocol.

Methods

Mouse interlobar arteries (ILA) and afferent arterioles (AA) were investigated under isometric and isotonic conditions respectively. The in vitro protocol consisted of 60‐min hypoxia and control condition, respectively, 10‐min re‐oxygenation followed by concentration–response curves for Ang II or endothelin.

Results

Hypoxia reduced the response to Ang II. Hypoxia and NE (10−9 mol L‐1) together increased it in ILA and AA. In ILA, NE alone influenced neither Ang II responses under control conditions nor endothelin responses after hypoxia. Prazosin or yohimbine treatment did not significantly influence the NE+hypoxia effect. The combination of prazosin and yohimbine or propranolol alone inhibited the effect of NE+hypoxia. BRL37344 (β3 receptor agonist) mimicked the NE effect. In contrast, the incubation with β3 receptor blocker did not influence the mentioned effect. Phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and MLC(20) was increased after H/R with NE and Ang II treatment. The selective p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190 blocked the NE+hypoxia effect on the Ang II response.

Conclusion

The results suggest an interaction of NE and hypoxia in enhancing vasoreactivity, which may be important for the pathogenesis of AKI. The effect of NE+hypoxia in ILA is mediated by several adrenergic receptors and requires the p38 MAPK activation.
Psychoeducation for relapse prevention in bipolar disorder: a systematic review of efficacy in randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bond Kirsten , Anderson Ian M
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Previous reviews have concluded that interventions including psychoeducation are effective in preventing relapse in bipolar disorder, but the efficacy of psychoeducation itself has not been systematically reviewed. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of psychoeducation for bipolar disorder in preventing relapse and other outcomes, and to identify factors that relate to clinical outcomes.

Methods

We employed the systematic review of randomized controlled trials of psychoeducation in participants with bipolar disorder not in an acute illness episode, compared with treatment‐as‐usual, and placebo or active interventions. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) for non‐relapse into any episode, mania/hypomania, and depression were calculated using an intent‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis, assigning dropouts to relapse, with a sensitivity analysis in which dropouts were assigned to non‐relapse (optimistic ITT).

Results

Sixteen studies were included, eight of which provided data on relapse. Although heterogeneity in the data warrants caution, psychoeducation appeared to be effective in preventing any relapse [n = 7; OR: 1.98–2.75; number needed to treat (NNT): 5–7, depending on the method of analysis] and manic/hypomanic relapse (n = 8; OR: 1.68–2.52; NNT: 6–8), but not depressive relapse. Group, but not individually, delivered interventions were effective against both poles of relapse; the duration of follow‐up and hours of therapy explained some of the heterogeneity. Psychoeducation improved medication adherence and short‐term knowledge about medication. No consistent effects on mood symptoms, quality of life, or functioning were found.

Conclusions

Group psychoeducation appears to be effective in preventing relapse in bipolar disorder, with less evidence for individually delivered interventions. Better understanding of mediating mechanisms is needed to optimize efficacy and personalize treatment.
Treatment of myasthenia gravis patients with calcineurin inhibitors in Japan: A retrospective analysis of outcomes
Authors: Utsugisawa Kimiaki , Nagane Yuriko , Imai Tomihiro , Motomura Masakatsu , Masuda Masayuki , Konno Shingo , Suzuki Shigeaki
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) are approved for the treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG) in Japan. However, the extent to which CNI have been effective remains unclear. Here we report data regarding CNI use and outcomes of MG.

Methods

We evaluated 640 consecutive MG patients by a multicenter survey. Patients not receiving any immune treatment were excluded, and cross‐sectional and retrospective data of 515 patients receiving immune treatment with (n = 312) or without (n = 203) CNI were analyzed.

Results

Compared with patients treated without CNI, those treated with CNI had a higher frequency of MG Foundation of America Class III–V and higher severity disease at the worst clinical condition, and also had current higher severity, worse quality of life and higher daily doses of prednisolone, despite taking equivalent prednisolone dosages during the course of treatment. Achieving a treatment target was less frequent in the group treated with CNI. Onset age was not different between the two groups. Duration before CNI use after starting corticosteroids was 4.4 ± 6.3 years. Among those treated with CNI, late‐onset MG patients achieved a more favorable current condition than did those with early‐onset and thymoma‐associated MG, whereas there was no such difference without CNI treatment.

Conclusions

CNI were given to severely ill MG patients with no attempt to select those more likely to respond, and failed to exert a strong impact on MG therapy. CNI should be given aggressively to patients with factors known to enhance susceptibility to these drugs, such as higher age at onset and early‐stage disease.
Contact allergy to acrylates and methacrylates in consumers and nail artists – data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology, 2004–2013
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Geier Johannes
Published: January 2015

Background

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by (meth)acrylates used in artificial nails is a relevant problem in both nail artists and consumers.

Objective

To analyse the frequency of this problem in the contact allergy surveillance network Information Network of Departments of Dermatology in 2004–2013, and address possible time trends and patterns of co‐sensitization.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patch test results with (meth)acrylates, along with clinical and demographic data, was performed. These were used to subdivide patients according to (i) a potentially exposed occupation and (ii) nail cosmetics as the suspected cause of contact dermatitis.

Results

Among the 114 440 patients patch tested, 72 244 were female and were considered further. Eighty‐seven patients both worked as nail artists/cosmetologists and suspected nail cosmetics as the cause of dermatitis. Among these, 47.1% reacted to at least one (meth)acrylate, most often to 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (n = 27), 2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate, and hydroxyethyl acrylate (n = 26 each), with marked coupled reactivity. In other subgroups of interest, frequencies of sensitization to (meth)acrylates were less elevated but higher than in all remaining female patients (n = 69 419).

Conclusions

The results indicate a not entirely common, but potentially serious, problem, especially concerning occupationally exposed, and sensitized, nail artists. Adequate protective measures should be taught as part of the vocational training.
Engaging Stakeholders: Assessing Accuracy of Participatory Mapping of Land Cover in Panama
Authors: Vergara‐Asenjo Gerardo , Sharma Divya , Potvin Catherine
Published: January 2015

Full and effective participation of indigenous peoples and local communities, and high accuracy estimates are two current requirements for the purposes of monitoring forests at international level. We produced two land cover maps, both of which were based on digital image processing (decision trees) using Rapideye imagery, and a land cover participatory map, for indigenous territories of eastern Panama. Accuracy of the three maps was evaluated using field data. Classification that was based on participatory mapping gave best overall accuracy of 83.7% (κ = 0.783), followed by the decision tree that included textural variables (DT2: overall accuracy of 79.9%, κ = 0.757). We have demonstrated for the first time that local knowledge can improve land cover classification and facilitate the identification of forest degradation. The plea of the UNFCC for the full and effective participation of local and indigenous people could, therefore, improve the accuracy of monitoring.