bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timing of disturbance affects biomass and flowering of a saltmarsh plant and attack by stem‐boring herbivores
Authors: Li Shanze , Pennings Steven C.
Published: February 2017

In salt marshes, disturbance by wrack (floating mats of dead vegetation) is common and affects plant productivity and species composition, but little is known about how the timing of disturbance mediates these effects, nor how it interacts with herbivory. Using a field experiment on the Georgia coast, we simulated the effects of wrack disturbance at different times of the year on the marsh grass Spartina alterniflora and its stem‐boring herbivorous insects. The timing of disturbance throughout the growing season strongly affected fall biomass, stem height, the proportion of stems flowering, and the proportion of stems colonized by stem‐boring herbivorous insects. End‐of‐season biomass in plots disturbed in March did not differ from undisturbed controls, but biomass was reduced by 50% in plots disturbed in May, and by over 90% in plots disturbed in September. Disturbance in March and May stimulated flowering, but disturbance later in the growing season suppressed it. Plots disturbed late in the growing season had a low frequency of stem‐boring herbivores. Stems containing stem borers rarely flowered. These results indicate that the timing of disturbance matters in coastal salt marshes. Late‐season disturbances had the strongest effects on S. alterniflora and its herbivores. Disturbances early in the growing season did not affect end‐of‐season biomass, and stimulated flowering, suggesting parallels between fire disturbance in grasslands and wrack disturbance in salt marshes. Late‐season disturbance did reduce herbivory by stem‐boring insects, but not enough to compensate for the direct effects of disturbance on the plants. Future studies of disturbance in salt marshes should consider how the timing of experimental disturbance treatments relates to the timing of natural disturbances.
Copper(I) Complexes with Thiourea Derivatives as Ligands: Revealing Secrets of Their Bonding Scheme
Authors: Hollmann Katharina , Oppermann Alexander , Witte Matthias , Li Sun , Amen Maike , Flörke Ulrich , Egold Hans , Henkel Gerald , Herres‐Pawlis Sonja
Published: February 2017

We have synthesized and characterized five copper(I) complexes with unsymmetrically substituted thiourea ligands. These include two coordination polymers, [Cu(StuNH)Br]nand [Cu(Stu(Py)NH)Br]n, two dinuclear complexes, [Cu2(StuNH)4Br2] and [Cu2(Stu(Py)NH)2Br2(MeCN)2], and one hexanuclear complex, [Cu6(StuN)6]. The Cu atoms of the coordination polymers are connected through alternating thione and bromide bridges and the dimeric structures through thione bridges. The thione‐bridged structures show similarities with the biologically highly relevant CuAcenter in its fully reduced oxidation state. Three of the complexes were further investigated by using DFT, including a full orbital analysis utilizing fragment orbitals (FOs) and overlap populations (OPs). The bonding motifs of the dinuclear complexes are similar to that of the CuAcomplex, whereas the analysis of the hexanuclear species showed the influence of the ligands on the core and hence on its electronic structure. Moreover, a comparative analysis of related dinuclear and hexanuclear copper–sulfur systems is presented.
Synthesis of the Unsaturated [MMoCp(µ‐PR2)(CO)5]– Anions (M = Mn, R = Ph; M = Re, R = Cy): Versatile Precursors of Heterometallic Complexes
Authors: Alvarez M. Angeles , García M. Esther , García‐Vivó Daniel , Huergo Estefanía , Ruiz Miguel A.
Published: February 2017

An efficient synthetic route for the preparation of the title anions was implemented, and it involved two‐electron reduction of iodide‐bridged [MMoCp(µ‐I)(µ‐PR2)(CO)5] (Cp = cyclopentadienyl) complexes by using Na(Hg). Reaction of these anions with (NH4)PF6 (in THF) and ClSnPh3 (in MeCN) gave [MMoCp(µ‐H)(µ‐PR2)(CO)5(NH3)] and [MoReCp(µ‐PCy2)(SnPh3)(CO)5(NCMe)] (Cy = cyclohexyl), respectively, with incorporation of the corresponding electrophile at either a bridging (H+) or terminal (SnPh3) position and the addition of an external ligand (NH3 and NCMe, respectively) to render electron‐precise derivatives (dMo–Re > 3.1 Å). In contrast, reaction with [AuCl{P(pTol)3}] yielded stable unsaturated trimetallic [AuMMoCp(µ‐PR2)(CO)5{P(pTol)3}] clusters (dMo–Mn = 2.71 Å).
Pre‐processing effects on cold pressed rapeseed oil quality indicators and phenolic compounds
Authors: McDowell Daniel , Elliott Christopher T. , Koidis Anastasios
Published: February 2017

This study exposed seven rapeseed cultivars to various seed pre‐processing practices. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of pre‐processing on cold pressed rapeseed oil parameters associated with health and flavor. Results showed the pre‐processing in this study were not a significant factor regarding oil quality. The total phenols of oils from unprocessed seeds ranged from 0.005–2.468 mg/kg oil. The phenolic acids investigated in the roasted group averaging 10.386 mg/kg and the microwaved group averaging 8.015 mg/kg. Part of this increase was due to the formation of canolol in these groups. Microwaved and roasted groups had significantly higher DPPH radical scavenging potential than the other groups. The thermal pre‐processing techniques also significantly altered the volatile composition of the roasted and microwaved groups. Ultrasound pre‐processing had no significant impact on any of the parameters studied.

Practical applications: The regulations surrounding cold pressing means that there are restrictions regarding extraction procedures and the treatment of the oil after cold pressing. This means that the main opportunity to alter cold pressed oil is pre‐processing of the seed (in this case rapeseed). Pre‐processing of rapeseed can alter the composition of cold pressed rapeseed oil without impinging on cold pressing regulations. This study shows how pre‐processing techniques can increase the attributes of cold pressed rapeseed oil in relation to antioxidant activity and phenolic acids. This work shows that pre‐processing has a much greater effect on these parameters than varietal selection.

Rapeseed pre‐processing and subsequent analysis of cold pressed rapeseed oil compounds associated with flavor and health.
Quinazoline‐Directed C–H Bond Functionalization Catalyzed by Ruthenium(II) Carboxylate – Construction of Polyconjugated Aryl‐Heteroaryl Systems
Authors: Štefane Bogdan , Brodnik Žugelj Helena , Grošelj Uroš , Kuzman Petra , Svete Jurij , Požgan Franc
Published: February 2017

A series of coupling products have been prepared by a ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed direct ortho‐C–H arylation of 2‐(aryl/heteroaryl)‐substituted quinazolines with (hetero)aryl bromides. Tri(hetero)aryl‐substituted alkenes were also prepared by olefinic C–H activation of 2‐(2‐arylvinyl)quinazoline derivatives. High conversions and selectivities were achieved by choosing the appropriate ruthenium(II) carboxylate catalyst system, solvent, and reaction temperature. The possibility of a C(sp3)–H functionalization by applying an arylation/reduction reaction sequence was also demonstrated.
Transience of channel head locations following disturbance
Authors: Wohl Ellen , Scott Daniel N.
Published: February 2017

We used annual re‐surveys of two populations of channel heads affected by a severe wildfire in 2012 to monitor changes in channel head location with time following disturbance. Relative to channel heads in surrounding unburned areas, the median contributing drainage area of burned channel heads decreased by two orders of magnitude immediately after the fire, but then returned to values comparable to unburned areas within four years. We distinguish three types of channel heads. Permanent channel heads, which constitute 4% of the total population, occur in well‐developed swales in association with stable features such as bedrock outcrops: these channel heads appear to have been unaffected by the fire. Persistent channel heads, which are 40% of the total population, also occur within hillslope concavities, but the exact location of the channel head moves upslope and downslope through time in response to varying inputs of water and sediment. Transient channel heads form on straight and convex slopes immediately following disturbance, but disappear as regrowth of ground cover limits overland flow and sediment movement. The majority of the position changes for persistent and transient channel heads occurred abruptly when viewed as annual time steps. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The association between hope and mortality in homebound elders
Authors: Zhu Andrea Q. , Kivork Christine , Vu Linh , Chivukula Meenakshi , Piechniczek‐Buczek Joanna , Qiu Wei Qiao , Mwamburi Mkaya
Published: February 2017

Objective

Despite high rates of mortality and depression, there is limited knowledge of how depressive symptoms, especially feeling of hopefulness, affect mortality in the homebound elderly.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a community sample of 1034 adults, age 60 years and older. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale was used to evaluate the mood symptoms and feeling of hopefulness at baseline. The death data were collected within an 8‐year follow‐up period. Analysis of variance and Chi‐square were used to compare the clinical conditions among the groups of individuals who feel hopeful always, sometimes, and rarely. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between the hopefulness about the future and mortality as an outcome.

Results

In the 8‐year follow‐up period, frequency of feeling hopeful, but not other individual depressive symptoms, was associated with mortality rate. The mortality rate among those who always, sometimes, and rarely felt hopeful were 21.6%, 26.4%, and 35.7%, respectively (P = 0.002). Logistic regression also confirmed that individuals who rarely feel hopeful had higher odds of decease within the 8‐year follow‐up period than those who always felt hopeful (OR = 1.74, CI = 1.14–2.65) after adjusting for age and medical conditions.

Conclusions

Baseline hopefulness predicts mortality outcome among the homebound elderly in the community. Identifying individuals who are depressed with hopelessness in the elderly and providing early intervention may improve the mortality rate. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cutaneous melanoma attributable to solar radiation in Cali, Colombia
Authors: de Vries Esther , Amador Julio R , Rincon Carlos Javier , Uribe Claudia , Parkin Donald Maxwell
Published: February 2017

Estimating the population attributable fraction (PAF) of melanomas due to sun exposure is challenging as there are no unexposed population nor reliable exposure data. In high incidence countries, a historic cohort of the South Thames cancer registry was used as a minimally exposed population using the formula PAF = (observed incidence‐incidence in minimally exposure)/observed incidence. In this study, we apply this method, constructing a minimally exposed cohort for Colombia and also using the historical South Thames data, using melanoma incidence data from the population‐based cancer registry of Cali, Colombia for the period 1967–2012. The historic cohort incidence rates were very similar to those of Thames, but cohort effects were smaller for women and nonexistent for men. Age‐specific incidence rates of these minimally exposed cohorts were applied to recent population numbers. For females, PAFs were 19% using the historic Thames cohort and 25% using the historic Cali cohort, corresponding numbers for males were 62% (vs. Thames) and 0% (vs. Cali). Taking into account the incidence rates of acral melanomas, which are not sun related, the PAF increased in women to 26% (vs. Thames) and 34% (vs. Cali) and for men 77% (vs. Thames). This exercise shows the modest contribution of exposure to ultraviolet radiation in the burden of melanoma in low‐incidence countries, as well as the importance to take into consideration the acral lentiginous melanomas.
Dairy intake in relation to prostate cancer survival
Authors: Downer Mary K. , Batista Julie L. , Mucci Lorelei A. , Stampfer Meir J. , Epstein Mara Meyer , Håkansson Niclas , Wolk Alicja , Johansson Jan‐Erik , Andrén Ove , Fall Katja , Andersson Sven‐Olof
Published: February 2017

Dairy intake has been associated with increased risk of advanced prostate cancer. Two US cohort studies reported increased prostate cancer‐specific mortality with increased high‐fat milk intake. We examined whether dairy and related nutrient intake were associated with prostate cancer progression in a Swedish patient population with high dairy consumption. We prospectively followed 525 men with newly diagnosed prostate cancer (diagnosed 1989–1994). We identified and confirmed deaths through February 2011 (n = 222 prostate cancer‐specific, n = 268 from other causes). Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the associations between food or nutrient intake and prostate cancer‐specific death. On average, patients consumed 5.0 servings/day of total dairy products at diagnosis. In the whole population, high‐fat milk intake was not associated with prostate cancer‐specific death (95% CI: 0.78, 2.10; p‐trend = 0.32; multivariate‐adjusted model). However, among patients diagnosed with localized prostate cancer, compared to men who consumed <1 servings/day of high‐fat milk, those who drank ≥3 servings/day had an increased hazard of prostate cancer mortality (HR = 6.10; 95% CI: 2.14, 17.37; p‐trend = 0.004; multivariate‐adjusted model). Low‐fat milk intake was associated with a borderline reduction in prostate cancer death among patients with localized prostate cancer. These associations were not observed among patients diagnosed with advanced stage prostate cancer. Our data suggest a positive association between high‐fat milk intake and prostate cancer progression among patients diagnosed with localized prostate cancer. Further studies are warranted to investigate this association and elucidate the mechanisms by which high‐fat milk intake may promote prostate cancer progression.
Development of a novel alginate‐polyvinyl alcohol‐hydroxyapatite hydrogel for 3D bioprinting bone tissue engineered scaffolds
Authors: Bendtsen Stephanie T. , Quinnell Sean P. , Wei Mei
Published: February 2017

Three‐dimensional printed biomaterials used as personalized tissue substitutes have the ability to promote and enhance regeneration in areas of defected tissue. The challenge with 3D printing for bone tissue engineering remains the selection of a material with optimal rheological properties for printing in addition to biocompatibility and capacity for uniform cell incorporation. Hydrogel biomaterials may provide sufficient printability to allow cell encapsulation and bioprinting of scaffolds with uniform cell distribution. In this study, a novel alginate‐polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐hydroxyapatite (HA) hydrogel formulation with optimal rheological properties for 3D bioprinting of mouse calvaria 3T3‐E1 (MC3T3) cells into scaffolds of high shape fidelity has been developed. A systematic investigation was conducted to determine the effect of varying concentrations of alginate, phosphate, calcium, and the PVA‐HA suspension in the formulation on the resulting viscosity and thus printability of the hydrogel. HA, the main mineral component in natural bone, was incorporated into the hydrogel formulation to create a favorable bone‐forming environment due to its excellent osteoconductivity. Degradation studies in α‐MEM cell culture media showed that the 3D printed alginate‐PVA‐HA scaffolds remained in‐tact for 14 days. MC3T3 cells were well distributed and encapsulated throughout the optimal hydrogel formulation and expressed high viability through the completion of the 3D printing process. Thus, the development of this novel, osteoconductive, biodegradable, alginate‐PVA‐HA formulation and its ability to 3D bioprint tissue engineered scaffolds make it a promising candidate for treating personalized bone defects. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1457–1468, 2017.
Linking Bridged Tetracopper Complexes with Neutral Dipyridyl Compounds to Coordination Polymers and Discrete Metalacages
Authors: Shiu Ler‐Chun , Chuang Jen‐Han , Wu Tian‐Shung , Shiu Kom‐Bei
Published: February 2017

The bridged tetracopper(I) complex [{Cu2(μ‐dppm)2}2(μ‐(1,3‐O2CC6H4
(CO2
)2)](BF4
)2 (2(BF4
)2) was prepared. This complex and the neutral dipyridyl compounds (NN; NN = 4,4′‐bipyridine (bpy), 1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethane (bpa), 4,4′‐trimethylenedipyridine (tmp)) can form dynamic equilibria in CH2Cl2
. From the equilibrium mixtures containing 2(BF4
)2 and NN with 2(BF4
)2/NN = 1:1, different supramolecular compounds were obtained as single crystals, and their structure were determined by X‐ray crystallography. The flexibility of NN is found to be important in determining the outcome of the reactions with a rigid bpy, leading to the formation of the coordination polymer [{Cu2(μ‐dppm)2}2(μ‐1,3‐C6H4
(CO2
)2)(μ‐bpy)]
n
(BF4
)2n
(3(BF4
)2n
), whereas with flexible bpa and tmp direct the formation of the metalacages [{Cu2(μ‐dppm)2}2(μ‐1,3‐C6H4
(CO2
)2)(μ‐NN)](BF4
)2 (NN = bpa, 4(BF4
)2; tmp, 5(BF4
)2), respectively, as supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculation results.
Retrospective analysis on the diagnostic performances and signal‐to‐cut‐off ratios of the Elecsys Anti‐HCV II assay
Authors: Kim Banseok , Ahn Hyo Jun , Choi Min Hyuk , Park Yongjung
Published: February 2017

Background

Anti‐HCV assays are widely used as a screening tool for HCV infection. However, diagnostic performances and effective signal‐to‐cut‐off ratios (S/COs) for predicting true HCV infections would vary according to the assays used. Thus, we evaluated the diagnostic performances of the new Elecsys Anti‐HCV assay.

Methods

A total of 41 694 cases tested by the Elecsys Anti‐HCV II assay (Roche Diagnostics, Germany) during January 2013 to December 2015 were retrospectively analyzed by comparing with the diagnosis on HCV infections determined by patients’ medical records and results of laboratory tests.

Results

Excluding 62 cases with unclear history of HCV infection, 430 and 41 202 cases were respectively assorted as “true infection” and “no evidence of infection,” and 99.85% of the initial results by the Elecsys assay were concordant with the diagnosis on HCV infection. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were respectively 99.30%, 99.86%, 88.04%, and 99.99%, where the prevalence of the HCV infection was 1.0%. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve value of the Elecsys assay was 0.9980 (95% confidence interval [CI]=0.9944 to 1.0017). The S/CO by the Elecsys assay for predictive of a true‐positive ≥95% of the time was 19.0 (95% CI=15.0 to 25.1).

Conclusion

The Elecsys Anti‐HCV II assay showed excellent diagnostic performances, particularly in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and NPV. However, the results obtained by this assay with S/CO less than a certain value would need to be retested by HCV RNA PCR or another anti‐HCV assay.
A comparison of cystatin C concentrations between patients with chronic interstitial nephritis and glomerular diseases
Authors: Robles Nicolas Roberto , Mena Candido , Chavez Edgar , Bayo Miguel Angel , Gonzalez Candia Boris , Cidoncha Antonio , Lopez Gomez Juan , Cubero Juan Jose
Published: February 2017

Aims

Cystatin C have shown to be a renal function parameter with higher sensitivity and specificity than serum creatinine. In tubular diseases, cystatin C degradation and an increase in its urinary elimination would be observed. We have tried to define if different kinds of kidney diseases may significantly affect the serum levels of cystatin C.

Design and Methods

Four hundred and four patients were studied: 249 men and 155 women, mean age was 64.3±10.1 years. Patients were classified into three groups: (1) Chronic interstitial nephropathy (CIN), (2) Glomerular nephropathy (GN), and (3) Non‐ CKD patients (control). GFR was estimated though the CKD‐EPI equation and the Hoek formula.

Results

Median of serum creatinine levels was higher in CIN group than in GN and control groups. Median cystatin C levels were lower in control group compared with CIN and GN groups. No significant differences were found between CIN group and GN group. Nevertheless, the cystatin/creatinine rate was lower in the CIN group patients (0.94, 0.81‐1.11) than in the GN group (1.02,I 0.85‐1.25) as well as the control group (1.02, I 0.88‐1.20). The cystatin C‐estimated GFR/creatinine‐estimated GFR rate was higher in the CIN group (1.18, 1.03‐1.36) than in the GN patients (1.03, 0.88‐1.21) and control ones (1.07, 0.88‐1.20).

Conclusions

Patients with CIN had lower serum levels of cystatin C defined as cystatin C/creatinine rate when they were compared with GN subject and control ones. In the same way, the index between cystatin C‐estimated GFR and creatinine‐estimated GFR was higher in CIN patients.
Introduction: Applying Clinical Psychological Science to Practice
Authors: Cha Christine B. , DiVasto Katherine A.
Published: February 2017

Mental illness is a prevalent and extraordinarily complex phenomenon. Psychologists have developed distinct approaches toward understanding and treating mental illness, rooted in divergent epistemology. This introduction to the Special Issue on Clinical Psychological Science and Practice provides a brief overview of the scientist‐practitioner gap, and explores one step (of many) toward bridging this divide. Seven compelling case illustrations featured in this Special Issue apply empirical findings to case formulation, treatment selection, and assessment across complex and varied clinical presentations. This issue thereby demonstrates the feasibility of integrating research and clinical expertise in mental healthcare.
Maintaining Mental Health Through Positive Writing: Effects of a Resource Diary on Depression and Emotion Regulation
Authors: Suhr M. , Risch A.K. , Wilz G.
Published: February 2017

Objective

The present study investigated the beneficial effects of the resource‐oriented positive writing intervention resource diary (RD) on mental health variables among patients recently discharged from psychiatric inpatient treatment.

Method

Eighty‐nine patients were randomly assigned to either an intervention group completing RD over the course of 4 weeks (n = 45) or a control group receiving no intervention (n = 44). To measure changes in mental health, patients filled out a number of self‐report questionnaires on depression, emotion regulation, and resource activation before and after the intervention. 

Results

Participants completing RD had significantly lower depression scores than controls and reported an increased use of the functional emotion regulation strategy “reappraisal” 5 weeks after discharge. A decreased use of the dysfunctional strategy “expressive suppression” was found in the female subsample. No differences were found for resource activation.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that a resource‐oriented positive writing intervention has potential for stabilizing mental health after psychiatric discharge and could therefore present an economical alternative or addition to established aftercare programs.
Biological synthesis of Pt nanoparticles in a microfluidic chip and modeling of the formation process withPBMandCFD
Authors: Liu Hongyu , Zhang Huan , Wang Jie , Wei Junfu , Zhang Yu
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Biological synthesis of platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) withCacumen platycladi(C. platycladi) in a microfluidic chip and numerical simulation of formation processes were studied. The effect of volumetric flow rate onPtNPs' size distribution was investigated in detail not only by experimental methods but also by means of numerical simulation. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and a population balance model (PBM) combined with reactive kinetics were employed to simulatePtNPs' formation and to calculate the particle size distributions (PSD).

RESULTS

The experimental results confirmed the validity of the model and its practicality in predicting the formation ofPtNPsandPSDevolution in the microfluidic chip. In addition, the numerical simulation results also tested and verified the accuracy of the results and conclusions acquired from the experiment.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded thatPSDwas influenced not only by mixing efficiency but also by residence time in the microfluidic chip, and that the two factors were determined by volumetric flow rate. There is a specific volumetric flow rate to achieve equilibrium (optimal mixing and residence time) that results in the average particle size reaching its maximum value. This work provides useful insight into the microfluidic biological synthesis ofPtNPsand the influence of volumetric flow rate on size distribution in a microfluidic chip. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Sonographic evaluation of surgical repair of uterine cesarean scar defects
Authors: Pomorski Michal , Fuchs Tomasz , Rosner‐Tenerowicz Anna , Zimmer Mariusz
Published: February 2017

Background

The aim of the study was to assess the clinical outcomes of surgical repair of uterine cesarean scar defects with sonography (US).

Methods

Seven nonpregnant women with history of cesarean section and a large uterine scar defect were enrolled. The surgical repair was performed by minilaparotomy. The US assessment of the uterine scar was performed using a standardized approach at baseline, then at a first visit 2–3 days following the surgical intervention (V1) and at a follow‐up visit 3 months later (V2). Residual myometrial thickness (RMT), width, and depth of the scar defect were measured.

Results

The mean RMT increased significantly from 1.9 mm at baseline to 8.8 mm at V1 and 8.0 mm at V2. No intraoperative complications were observed. Postmenstrual spotting and abdominal pain reported preoperatively resolved after the operation.

Conclusions

A surgical repair procedure for an incompletely healed uterine cesarean scar is effective in increasing RMT thickness, decreasing the depth of the scar, and reducing symptoms related to the cesarean section scar defect. Further studies on post‐repair pregnancy outcomes are required to evaluate whether the procedure affects the rate of cesarean scar pregnancy, morbidly adherent placenta, and/or uterine scar dehiscence and rupture. The repair of a cesarean scar defect is recommended only for symptomatic women. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:455–460, 2017
The importance of great saphenous vein types and segmental aplasia in venous reflux
Authors: Ekin Elif Evrim , Kurtul Yildiz Hülya
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate the relationship among great saphenous vein (GSV) anatomic type, segmental aplasia, and reflux.

Methods

Color Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS) was performed on 475 legs of 277 consecutive patients with venous symptoms between November 2015 and August 2016. Exclusion criteria were previous venous surgery and venous thrombosis. Five GSV types were identified based on the saphenous compartment at thigh level, and segment aplasia and reflux were investigated.

Results

The most frequent GSV type was type A, ie, a single GSV extending within the saphenous compartment with no accompanying large parallel tributary (53%), and the least frequent type was type B, GSV duplication (1.3%). Patients with and without reflux showed similar distributions of GSV type (p = 0.389). Segmental aplasia was observed in 117 (24.63%) of 475 legs. The mean age of patients with GSV reflux was compared between patients with and without aplasia (p = 0.798).

Conclusions

The frequency of venous reflux was nearly identical across GSV types. The frequency of segmental aplasia was similar in patients with and without reflux. Despite these similarities, defining GSV type and identifying segmental aplasia can provide guidance for treatment. In particular, type D GSVs, defined by the presence of an anterior accessory branch, should be investigated when performing CDUS. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:332–336, 2017;
Ultrasound‐guided dorsal penile nerve block performed in a case of zipper entrapment injury
Authors: Rose Gabriel , Costa Vincent , Drake Aaran , Siadecki Sebastian D , Saul Turandot
Published: February 2017

Injury to the penis resulting from zipper entrapment is a painful condition that presents a unique anesthetic challenge to the emergency physician and may even require procedural sedation for removal. In this case report, we describe successful removal of zipper entrapment from the penis of a 34‐year‐old patient after the application of an ultrasound‐guided dorsal penile nerve block. We discuss the anatomy, sonographic features, and steps required for the nerve block procedure. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:589–591, 2017
Orientation of the lateral semicircular canal in Xenarthra and its links with head posture and phylogeny
Authors: Coutier Florence , Hautier Lionel , Cornette Raphaël , Amson Eli , Billet Guillaume
Published: February 2017

The orientation of the semicircular canals of the inner ear in the skull of vertebrates is one of the determinants of the capacity of this system to detect a given rotational movement of the head. Past functional studies on the spatial orientation of the semicircular canals essentially focused on the lateral semicircular canal (LSC), which is supposedly held close to horizontal during rest and/or alert behaviors. However, they generally investigated this feature in only a few and distantly related taxa. Based on 3D‐models reconstructed from µCT‐scans of skulls, we examined the diversity of orientations of the LSC within one of the four major clades of placental mammals, that is, the superorder Xenarthra, with a data set that includes almost all extant genera and two extinct taxa. We observed a wide diversity of LSC orientations relative to the basicranium at both intraspecific and interspecific scales. The estimated phylogenetic imprint on the orientation of the LSC was significant but rather low within the superorder, though some phylogenetic conservatism was detected for armadillos that were characterized by a strongly tilted LSC. A convergence between extant suspensory sloths was also detected, both genera showing a weakly tilted LSC. Our preliminary analysis of usual head posture in extant xenarthrans based on photographs of living animals further revealed that the LSC orientation in armadillos is congruent with a strongly nose‐down head posture. It also portrayed a more complex situation for sloths and anteaters. Finally, we also demonstrate that the conformation of the cranial vault and nuchal crests as well as the orientation of the posterior part of the petrosal may covary with the LSC orientation in Xenarthra. Possible inferences for the head postures of extinct xenarthrans such as giant ground sloths are discussed in the light of these results.
Evaluating extreme climate indices from CMIP3&5 global climate models and reanalysis data sets: a case study for present climate in the Andes of Ecuador
Authors: Campozano Lenin , Vázquez‐Patiño Angel , Tenelanda Daniel , Feyen Jan , Samaniego Esteban , Sánchez Esteban
Published: February 2017

The reliability of climate models depends ultimately on their adequacy in relevant real situations. However, climate in mountains, a very sensitive system, is scarcely monitored, making the assessment of global climate models (GCMs) projections problematic. This is even more critical for tropical mountain regions, where complex atmospheric processes acting across scales are specially challenging for GCMs. To help bridge this gap, we evaluated the representation of extreme climate indices by GCMs and reanalysis data in the Andes of Ecuador. This work presents an intercomparison of 11 climate precipitation indices (Climate Change Detection and Indices, ETCCDIs) reconstructed for the period 1 January 1981–31 December 2000 using the data of six climate stations situated in a medium‐sized Andean catchment in southern Ecuador, reanalysis data sets (RAD) ERA40, ERA‐Interim, NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis 1 (NCEP/NCAR‐R1) and NCEP/DOE Reanalysis 2 (NCEP/DOE‐R2), and the data sets of 19 and 29 models of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, Phases 3 and 5 (CMIP3&5). Temporal and spatial analysis highlights that the values and the variability of ETCCDIs based on reanalysis and CMIP3&5 data overestimate observations, especially in ENSO years. However, frequency‐type indices are in general better captured than amount‐related indices in RAD. In general, reanalysis data displayed a similar uncertainty as the CMIP model data sets and some indices present lower uncertainty. The uncertainty of ETCCDIs based on CMIP5 remains similar to CMIP3 GCMs, with small variations. The indices using NCEP/NCAR‐R1, NCEP/DOE‐R2, and ERA‐Interim data performed better than those obtained with the ERA40 data sets, with no discernible improvement between both NCEP products. It can be concluded that for the given study region CMIP3&5 models and reanalysis products with respectively good and poor performance, exist, however data should be carefully screened before use. Furthermore, these results confirm that the specificity of the studied region is a key to identify limiting aspects on the GCMs and reanalysis extreme climate representation.
Polymorph formation in fenofibrate in the absence and presence of polymer stabilizers: a low wavenumber Raman and differential scanning calorimetry study
Authors: Ying Ye , Beck Christian , Wu Aide , Dave Rajesh , Iqbal Zafar
Published: February 2017

In situ, variable temperature low wavenumber Raman spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry together with scanning electron microscope imaging were used to investigate polymorph formation in the non‐hydrogen bonded, anti‐cholesterol drug fenofibrate (FNB), in the absence and presence of two non‐ionic polymeric stabilizers: triBlock copolymer pluronic‐F127 (PF/127) and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC/E3).

Low wavenumber Raman spectra show that metastable phase II formation occurs on initial cooling to 25 °C following the first heat‐up to 100 °C for both pure FNB and FNB in the presence of PF/127, but not in the presence of HPMC/E3. Differential scanning calorimetry results on the other hand show that phase II of FNB crystallizes near 75 °C during the first heat‐up of the drug in the presence of PF/127 but was not observed in the pure drug or the drug in the presence of HPMC/E3. These results are discussed in terms of molecular simulations carried out to determine the non‐bonded interaction energies between the polymers and FNB. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of tattoo pigments by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Yakes Betsy Jean , Michael Tara Jade , Perez‐Gonzalez Marianita , Harp Bhakti Petigara
Published: February 2017

As a result of the increase in the practice of tattooing, the US Food and Drug Administration has identified a need for improved analytical methods to detect the pigments and potential impurities in the inks. Raman spectroscopy allows for nondestructive identification of compounds and is commonly used in art, archaeology, and forensics; however, the technique has only limitedly been applied to the identification of tattoo pigments. In this study, approximately 30 inorganic, organometallic, and organic pigments were evaluated with Raman spectroscopy by using 532, 633, and 780‐nm lasers. Individual optimization of the instrumental parameters was performed for each pigment in order to enhance spectral quality. This research highlights the need for multiple laser interrogation, as the spectra of some pigments were difficult to obtain by using a particular wavelength due to interferences from absorption or fluorescence. However, by using these multiple wavelengths, all pigments could be identified by their unique spectral features. A spectral library of the pigments was created for each laser wavelength and then challenged with pigments from multiple manufacturers. All pigments were identified correctly, and the method is poised to be an effective, noninvasive means for qualitatively identifying tattoo pigments. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Sample self‐absorption in surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS): influence of the resonance, dilution and depth of the measurements
Authors: Muehlethaler Cyril , Lombardi John R. , Leona Marco
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we demonstrate that sample self‐absorption can strongly attenuate the surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) signal when resonant conditions are used. Below a monolayer coverage of the SERS substrate (silver nanoparticles), the signal is weakly attenuated, and a linear relationship to the concentration is maintained, as suggested by the fact that the scattered signal is proportional to the concentration. For concentrations of analytes superior to a monolayer coverage, the intensity reaches a maximal plateau value, and the increasing amount of molecules in solution acts as filters. As a result, it strongly attenuates the intensity of the SERS scattered main peaks and of the incident excitation light. These molecules contribute to the absorption but not to the Raman scattering. At this point, the attenuation of the light follows an exponential relationship to the concentration, and a decrease in intensity is observed for very concentrated solutions. A practical example is given with the analysis of an orange dye, having a strong absorption in the visible (~400–500 nm). We show that the effect of self‐absorption is even more pronounced when depth‐related measurements are made. We also demonstrate that exciting the sample off‐resonance eliminates the self‐absorption and that a linear relationship of the Raman intensities to the concentration is respected. We finally compare the surface‐enhanced with normal Raman measures. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Micro‐Raman spectroscopy and complementary techniques (hXRF, VP‐SEM‐EDS, μ‐FTIR and Py‐GC/MS) applied to the study of beads from the Kongo Kingdom (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Authors: Coccato Alessia , Costa Mafalda , Rousaki Anastasia , Clist Bernard‐Olivier , Karklins Karlis , Bostoen Koen , Manhita Ana , Cardoso Ana , Barrocas Dias Cristina , Candeias António , Moens Luc , Mirão José , Vandenabeele Peter
Published: February 2017

In the framework of the inter‐disciplinary KongoKing project, a set of beads from archaeological excavations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was analysed by means of a minimally invasive, multi‐analytical approach based on micro‐Raman spectroscopy. The full characterization of the materials, including glassy network, opacifiers and colorizers, was achieved thanks to the combination of data from handheld X‐ray fluorescence, variable pressure scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry, micro‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and pyrolysis coupled to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The obtained chemical information was used to fill the existing gap in the chemical study of beads from Western Central Africa. The cobalt‐rich blue beads were found to be of Central European origin, while the copper‐rich turquoise beads were manufactured using distinct copper sources. Cadmium yellow and cadmium red are the colourants responsible for the bright colours of bead types 10 and 12, respectively. The type 12 beads were found to be composed of glass covered with a waxy layer tentatively identified as Japan wax. Prosser‐moulded bead type 9 was coloured by means of a chrome–tin pigment, while a combination of Mn and Fe is responsible for the black colour of the type 47 beads. Cuprite is most likely responsible for the red hue of glass layers from type 14. The dark palm green exterior of the type 17 bead was produced by using a combination of Cu and Fe compounds; iron was the only chromophore detected in the Indian red decoration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The first use of portable Raman instrumentation for the in situ study of prehistoric rock paintings in Patagonian sites
Authors: Rousaki Anastasia , Vázquez Cristina , Aldazábal Verónica , Bellelli Cristina , Carballido Calatayud Mariana , Hajduk Adam , Vargas Emmanuel , Palacios Oscar , Vandenabeele Peter , Moens Luc
Published: February 2017

Portable Raman spectroscopy is applied for the first time on rock art paintings from hunter‐gatherers in three different provinces in Patagonia, Argentina (Neuquén, Río Negro and Chubut). Selected archaeological sites were examined, revealing the local ‘palette’ of the native population and, if possible, the technology used. Moreover, alteration products were investigated to obtain valuable information for a better conservation and preservation of these magnificent rock art paintings. During a single research campaign, 16 shelters and one cave were investigated, which makes this study as one of the most condensed expeditions on measuring rock art paintings. Here, we evaluate the use of our portable Raman instrument to analyse rock art paintings under extreme conditions in Patagonia, Argentina. Several improvements are proposed to maximize the quality of the research output in such condensed expeditions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of new spectral signatures associated with dengue virus infected sera
Authors: Amin Ayyaz , Ghouri Nimrah , Ali Safdar , Ahmed M. , Saleem M. , Qazi Javaria
Published: February 2017

In a quest to use Raman spectroscopy as an optical diagnostic tool, we recorded Raman spectra of 32 dengue virus (DENV)‐infected and 28 healthy sera samples in the near‐infrared spectral range (540 to 1700 cm−1) using laser at 785 nm as the excitation source. We observed clear differences in the Raman spectra of DENV‐infected sera as compared with those of healthy individuals. Here, as a result of our study, we report 12 unique Raman bands associated with DENV‐infected sera that are not reported earlier. After applying analysis of variance andt‐test (p < 0.05) on these 12 bands, six Raman bands at 630 (N‐acetylglucosamine), 883 (in‐plane bending (ring) of deoxyribose), 1218 (amide III–βconformation from C6H5–C stretching vibrations of tryptophan and phenylalanine), 1273 (amide–III), 1623 (tryptophan) and 1672 cm−1(ceramide) were found only in the DENV‐infected sera. The remaining six Raman bands at 716 (lipids), 780 (Uracil‐based ring breathing mode), 828 (ring breathing tyrosine), 840 (α‐anomers), 1101 (ν(C–N) of lipids and DNA) and 1150 cm−1(glycogen/carotenoids) were only found in healthy sera. Two types of classification models, principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis, were employed to develop principal component analysis–linear discriminant analysis model that has provided diagnostic accuracy 96.50%, sensitivity 93.44%, and specificity 100%. This indicates that these 12 Raman bands have the potential to be used as biomarkers for optical diagnosis of DENV infection. This study provides a new insight for future research in the field of optical diagnosis using Raman spectroscopy. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Degradation of poly(L‐lactic acid) coating on permanent coronary metal stent investigatedex vivoby micro Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Vano‐Herrera Kelim , Vogt Carla
Published: February 2017

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer with a variety of applications, such as functional coatings on implants, due to its biodegradability, good biocompatibility and very low toxicity. In this study, the degradation behavior of high molecular weight poly(L‐lactic acid) (L‐PLA), which was used as polymer coating on permanent coronary metal stent, was investigatedex vivo. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)‐embedded histological specimens of stented porcine coronary arteries (left anterior descending artery, left circumflex artery and right coronary artery) were used to follow the degradation at various implantation times (6, 12, 24 and 36 months). Micro Raman spectroscopy was applied as an alternative technique for the determination of the residual content of theL‐PLA coating. For this purpose, the PMMA‐embedded cross sections of stented porcine coronary arteries were characterized through a previously developed Raman method forin situquantitative analysis of PLA in a PMMA matrix. The residual content ofL‐PLA coating on the surface of the coronary metal stent was determined through the relative Raman band area ratioof the C–COO stretching band of PLA at 873 cm−1and the C–O–C symmetric stretching band of PMMA at 813 cm−1. This study demonstrated that Raman spectroscopy provides an alternative, non‐destructive technique for quantification ofL‐PLA coating on permanent coronary metal stent in an animal model. The results suggest that the complete absorption of theL‐PLA coating required more than 24 months for the layer thickness applied in this study and that the degradation of high molecular weightL‐PLA in a porcine model is carried out by a hydrolytic degradation through the bulk erosion mode. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of epidural compared to patient‐controlled intravenous analgesia on outcomes for patients undergoing liver resection for neoplastic disease
Authors: Allen Shelby , DeRoche Amy , Adams Lu , Slocum Karen Valerie , Clark Clancy J. , Fino Nora F. , Shen Perry
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Epidural analgesia is routinely used for postoperative pain control following abdominal surgeries, yet data regarding the safety and efficacy of epidural analgesia is controversial.

METHODS

Pain‐related and clinical perioperative data were extracted and correlated with baseline clinicopathologic data and method of analgesia (epidural vs. intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia) in patients who underwent hepatectomy from 2012 to 2014. Chronic pain was defined by specific narcotic requirements preoperatively.

RESULTS

Eighty‐seven patients underwent hepatectomy with 60% having epidurals placed for postoperative pain control. Epidural patients underwent more major hepatectomies and open resections. Comparison of pain scores between both groups demonstrated no significant difference (all P > .05). A significantly lower proportion of TEA patients required additional IV pain medications than those with IVPCA (P < 0.001). There was no major effect of epidural analgesia on time to ambulation or complications (all P > 0.05). After adjusting for perioperative factors, and surgical extent and approach, no significant differences in fluids administered or length of stay were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall postoperative outcomes were not significantly different based on method of analgesia after adjusting for type and extent of hepatic resection. Though patients with epidurals underwent more extensive operations they required less additional IV pain medications than IVPCA patients.