bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metacognitions and Mindful Attention Awareness in Depression: A Comparison Of Currently Depressed, Previously Depressed and Never Depressed Individuals
Authors: Solem Stian , Hagen Roger , Wang Catharina E. A. , Hjemdal Odin , Waterloo Knut , Eisemann Martin , Halvorsen Marianne
Published: October 2015

The primary aim of the study was to test (1) how metacognition relates to the concept of mindful attention awareness, and (2) whether metacognitions or mindful attention awareness best predicted symptoms of depression. Data was collected from three samples: currently depressed (n = 37), previously depressed (n = 81) and never depressed controls (n = 50). There was a moderate correlation between mindful attention awareness and three of five metacognitive subscales. Both mindful attention awareness and metacognition were significantly correlated with depression severity scores after controlling for anxiety. The depressed group had significantly more dysfunctional metacognitions and less mindful attention awareness than the never depressed group. Negative beliefs about worry and mindful attention awareness were also significantly different in the previously depressed group compared with the never depressed. This suggests that metacognitions and mindful attention awareness can be vulnerability factors for depression. The results also indicated that anxiety symptoms and negative beliefs about worry were the most important factors in predicting depression. In conclusion, the study shows that metacognitions and mindful attention awareness are two related but separate constructs and that metacognitions emerged as the best predictor of depression. These results provide support for the metacognitive model of emotional disorders. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Metacognitions and mindful attention awareness are related but separate constructs

Both mindful attention awareness and metacognition are associated with depression

Anxiety and negative beliefs about worry (metacognitions) are most important in predicting depression

Addressing metacognitions in therapy should be considered in treatment of depression
Note on Scattering of Electromagnetic Waves by Nonlinearly Screened Dust Grains in Plasmas
Authors: Tsytovich V. N.
Published: October 2015

Although most experiments in complex plasmas correspond to non‐linear grain screening, the theoretical models of non‐linear screening have not been checked experimentally. Scattering of electromagnetic waves on a single nonlinearly screened dust grain in plasmas can serve as one of effective methods for investigation of non‐linear screening. In present paper we have developed a theory for electromagnetic wave scattering that includes both the effect of coherency of scattering for long wave range and the loss of coherency with a decrease of the wave length. It is valid for arbitrary non‐linearity in screening and demonstrates that the loss of coherency occurs for wave length less then the characteristic screening length for non‐linear screening being usually substantially larger than the linear Debye screening length. The effect is illustrated numerically using the most popular model of non‐linear screening. The dependence of the cross‐section of scattering on parameter of non‐linearity in screening is calculated numerically. The loss of coherency in scattering by a single grain can serve as effective diagnostic for checking the theoretical models of non‐linear screening. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Immunosensor for Fumonisin B1 Detection in Corn Using Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes/Chitosan
Authors: Yang Xianxian , Zhou Xipeng , Zhang Xian , Qing Ying , Luo Mei , Liu Xiao , Li Chaorui , Li Yingli , Xia Huiming , Qiu Jingfu
Published: October 2015

A sensitive electrochemical immunosensor was developed for detecting fumonisin B1 (FB1) in corn using the single‐walled carbon nanotubes/chitosan. The detection mechanism of immunosensor was based on an indirect competitive binding to a fixed amount of anti‐FB1 between free FB1 and FB1‐bovine serum albumin, which was conjugated on covalently functionalized nanotubes/chitosan laid on the glass carbon electrode. The anti‐rabbit immunoglobulin G secondary antibody labeled with alkaline phosphatase was then bound to the electrode surface through reactisubstrate α‐naphthyl phosphate, which produced electrochemical signal. Under optimized conditions, this method could detect FB1 from 0.01 to 1000 ng mL−1 with a detection limit of 2 pg mL−1. This is well below the detection limit required from European Union legislation, 2–4 mg L−1. Moreover, good recoveries were obtained for the detection of spiked corn samples and actual corn samples. As the method has good sensitivity and recovery for detecting FB1, it is a practical detection method.
Isotopic separation of lithium ions by capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Kamencev Mikhail , Yakimova Nina , Moskvin Leonid , Kuchumova Irina , Tkach Kirill , Malinina Yulia , Tungusov Oleg
Published: October 2015

Separation of 6Li and 7Li isotopes by CZE was demonstrated. The BGE contained 5 mM 4‐aminopyridine, 0.9 mM oxalic acid, 0.25 mM CTAB, and 0.25% w/v Tween 20 (рН = 9.2). The running conditions were +25 kV at 30°C with indirect photometric detection at 261 nm. Under optimal experimental conditions, the analysis time was less than 21 min. Separation of Li preparations with mole fraction of 6Li ranging from 3.44 up to 90.38% was demonstrated.
The ventral hippocampus, but not the dorsal hippocampus is critical for learned approach‐avoidance decision making
Authors: Schumacher Anett , Vlassov Ekaterina , Ito Rutsuko
Published: October 2015

The resolution of an approach‐avoidance conflict induced by ambivalent information involves the appraisal of the incentive value of the outcomes and associated stimuli to orchestrate an appropriate behavioral response. Much research has been directed at delineating the neural circuitry underlying approach motivation and avoidance motivation separately. Very little research, however, has examined the neural substrates engaged at the point of decision making when opposing incentive motivations are experienced simultaneously. We hereby examine the role of the dorsal and ventral hippocampus (HPC) in a novel approach‐avoidance decision making paradigm, revisiting a once popular theory of HPC function, which posited the HPC to be the driving force of a behavioral inhibition system that is activated in situations of imminent threat. Rats received pre‐training excitotoxic lesions of the dorsal or ventral HPC, and were trained to associate different non‐spatial cues with appetitive, aversive and neutral outcomes in three separate arms of the radial maze. On the final day of testing, a state of approach‐avoidance conflict was induced by simultaneously presenting two cues of opposite valences, and comparing the time the rats spent interacting with the superimposed ‘conflict’ cue, and the neutral cue. The ventral HPC‐lesioned group showed significant preference for the conflict cue over the neutral cue, compared to the dorsal HPC‐lesioned, and control groups. Thus, we provide evidence that the ventral, but not dorsal HPC, is a crucial component of the neural circuitry concerned with exerting inhibitory control over approach tendencies under circumstances in which motivational conflict is experienced. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Major impact of an early bone marrow checkpoint (day 21) for minimal residual disease in flow cytometry in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Eveillard Marion , Robillard Nelly , Arnoux Isabelle , Garand Richard , Rialland Fanny , Thomas Caroline , Strullu Marion , Michel Gérard , Béné Marie C. , Fossat Chantal , Loosveld Marie
Published: October 2015

The early persistence of minimal residual disease (MRD) is considered a poor prognostic factor indicative of chemoresistance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In French children, chemosensitivity is assessed at day 21 post‐induction by cytomorphology. Here, it was investigated whether a more precise evaluation could be obtained at this time point with multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC).

This study enrolled 123 children with de novo acute lymphoblastic leukemia. MRD0 was investigated at day 21 in MFC with a combination of antibodies based on the immunophenotype of diagnosis. It was also evaluated at day 35 by immunoglobulin/T‐cell receptor quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (MRD1).

Three risk groups could be delineated based on MRD0. Patients with MFC/MRD0 levels >10−2 (n = 25) were considered high risk, those with levels between 10−2 and 10−4 (n = 46) intermediate risk, and those <10−4 (n = 50) low risk. Overall survival (p = 0.048) and event‐free survival (EFS, p = 0.00017) were significantly different between these three groups. EFS of the 14 corticoresistant patients strongly depended on their MRD0 level (p = 0.004). Similarly, both EFS (p = 0.0004) and overall survival (p = 0.02) were significantly different in the 109 chemosensitive patients, according to MRD0 levels. MRD0 and MRD1 levels, compared with 112 patients, were consistent (−/− or +/+) in 57.2% of the cases. Both MRD0+/MRD1+ and MRD0+/MRD1− patients had a significantly worse EFS (p = 0.0001) than those with undetectable MRD at both MRD0 and MRD1.

This study confirms the usefulness and superiority of an early point of MRD detection by MFC. In addition, MRD0 in MFC identifies a subgroup of patients with poorer prognosis (MRD0+/MRD1−). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social relationships and social support among post‐war youth in Northern Uganda
Authors: De Nutte Leen , Okello James , Derluyn Ilse
Published: October 2015

Although social relationships and social support are salient factors for post‐war adolescents' psychosocial coping and adjustment, there is only limited information regarding war‐affected adolescents' views on social support and the relationships within which social support is provided. This study therefore explored both elements among a clinical sample of 20 adolescents living in post‐war Northern Uganda. Following Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis, we found a prominent role of the biological mother and other primary biological family members in the upbringing of our participants. Spiritual and material support were perceived to be the most important type of support, respectively, while the adolescents were growing up and in their current lives. These findings provide support for the perception that caregiving systems are adaptable to particular sociocultural contexts. Further, the importance of particular functions of social support could signify a potentially selective buffering effect of these functions in adverse contexts. Because of the importance of the primary biological family and the salient role of parent–child relationships in the face of adversity, future research needs to focus on this particular kind of social relationship in contexts of prolonged collective violence.
Regulatory role of estrogen‐induced reactive oxygen species in the modulatory function of UCP 2 in papillary thyroid cancer cells
Authors: Hima Sithul , Sreeja Sreeharshan
Published: October 2015

Oxidative stress is postulated as one of the mechanisms underlying the estrogen's carcinogenic effect in thyroid cancer. But the fundamental mechanisms behind this carcinogenic effect remain elusive. Physiologically attainable concentrations of estrogen or estrogen metabolites have been made known to cause reactive oxygen species (ROS). It is envisioned that estrogen‐induced ROS mediated signaling is a key congruent mechanism that drives the modulation of uncoupled proteins in papillary thyroid carcinoma cells. The present study investigates that estrogens may increase mitochondrial ROS production by repressing uncoupling proteins, which offers a new perspective on the understanding of why thyroid cancer occurs three times more often in females than in males, and the occurrence decreases after menopause. © 2015 IUBMB Life, 67(11):837–846, 2015
The P2RY2 Receptor Induces Carcinoma Cell Migration and EMT Through Cross‐Talk With Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Martínez‐Ramírez A.S. , Garay E. , García‐Carrancá A. , Vázquez‐Cuevas F.G.
Published: October 2015

Extracellular nucleotides are signaling elements present in the tumor microenvironment; however, their role in tumor growth is not completely understood. In the present study, we asked whether nucleotides regulate cell migration in ovarian carcinoma‐derived cells. We observed that 100 μM UTP induced migration in SKOV‐3 cells (1.57 ± 0.08 fold over basal), and RT‐PCR showed expression of transcripts for the P2RY2 and P2RY4 receptors. Knockdown of P2RY2 expression in SKOV‐3 cells (P2RY2‐KD) abolished the UTP‐induced migration. The mechanism activated by UTP to induce migration involves transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) since we observed that the EGFR kinase inhibitor AG1478 and the PI3K inhibitor Wortmannin inhibit this response (to 0.76 ± 0.23 and 0.46 ± 0.14 relative to the control, respectively). In agreement with these observations, UTP was able to modify the phosphorylation state of the EGFR; likewise, the induction of ERK1/2 phosphorylation promoted by UTP was abolished by a 30–60 min treatment with AG1478. Our data also suggested that the enhanced cell migration involves the epithelium to mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, since a 12 h stimulation of SKOV‐3 cells with 100 μM UTP showed an increase in vimentin and SNAIL protein levels (459.8 ± 132.4% over basal for SNAIL). Interestingly, treatment with apyrase (10 U/mL) reduces the migration of control cells and induces a considerable enrichment of E‐cadherin in the cell–cell contacts, favoring an epithelial phenotype and strongly suggesting that the nucleotides released by tumor cells and acting through the P2RY2 receptor are potential regulators of invasiveness. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1016–1026, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generation of Oxtr cDNAHA‐Ires‐Cre Mice for Gene Expression in an Oxytocin Receptor Specific Manner
Authors: Hidema Shizu , Fukuda Tomokazu , Hiraoka Yuichi , Mizukami Hiroaki , Hayashi Ryotaro , Otsuka Ayano , Suzuki Shingo , Miyazaki Shinji , Nishimori Katsuhiko
Published: October 2015

The neurohypophysial hormone oxytocin (OXT) and its receptor (OXTR) have critical roles in the regulation of pro‐social behaviors, including social recognition, pair bonding, parental behavior, and stress‐related responses. Supporting this hypothesis, a portion of patients suffering from autism spectrum disorder have mutations, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms, or epigenetic modifications in their OXTR gene. We previously reported that OXTR‐deficient mice exhibit pervasive social deficits, indicating the critical role of OXTR in social behaviors. In the present study, we generated Oxtr cDNAHA‐Ires‐Cre knock‐in mice, expressing both OXTR and Cre recombinase under the control of the endogenous Oxtr promoter. Knock‐in cassette of Oxtr cDNAHA‐Ires‐Cre consisted of Oxtr cDNA tagged with the hemagglutinin epitope at the 3′ end (Oxtr cDNAHA), internal ribosomal entry site (Ires), and Cre. Cre was expressed in the uterus, mammary gland, kidney, and brain of Oxtr cDNAHA‐Ires‐Cre knock‐in mice. Furthermore, the distribution of Cre in the brain was similar to that observed in Oxtr‐Venus fluorescent protein expressing mice (Oxtr‐Venus), another animal model previously generated by our group. Social behavior of Oxtr cDNAHA‐Ires‐Cre knock‐in mice was similar to that of wild‐type animals. We demonstrated that this construct is expressed in OXTR‐expressing neurons specifically after an infection with the recombinant adeno‐associated virus carrying the flip‐excision switch vector. Using this system, we showed the transport of the wheat‐germ agglutinin tracing molecule from the OXTR‐expressing neurons to the innervated neurons in knock‐in mice. This study might contribute to the monosynaptic analysis of neuronal circuits and to the optogenetic analysis of neurons expressing OXTR. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1099–1111, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Independent Set Reconfiguration in Cographs and their Generalizations
Authors: Bonsma Paul
Published: October 2015

We study the following independent set reconfiguration problem, called TAR‐Reachability:
given two independent sets I and J of a graph G, both of size at least k, is it possible to transform I into J by adding and removing vertices one‐by‐one, while maintaining an independent set of size at least k throughout? This problem is known to be PSPACE‐hard in general. For the case that G is a cograph on n vertices, we show that it can be solved in time , and that the length of a shortest reconfiguration sequence from I to J is bounded by (if it exists). More generally, we show that if is a graph class for which (i) TAR‐Reachability can be solved efficiently, (ii) maximum independent sets can be computed efficiently, and which satisfies a certain additional property, then the problem can be solved efficiently for any graph that can be obtained from a collection of graphs in using disjoint union and complete join operations. Chordal graphs and claw‐free graphs are given as examples of such a class .
Managing Collective Processes in the Creative Industries: Insight from Perfumery and Haute Cuisine
Authors: Paris Thomas , Lang Gerald
Published: October 2015

Despite growing interest in the managerial and organizational dimensions of creative industries, little research has focused on the collective aspect of the creativity processes that underlie them. A study of the creative processes in perfumery and haute cuisine finds that creativity in those sectors is not the province of a gifted individual but, rather, the outcome of a collective process. The findings lead to a four‐stage model of the creative process—inspiration, framing, formulation, and validation—that can be used to both enhance creativity in the workplace and avoid some of the problems associated with the management of individuals in creative enterprises. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multi‐disciplinary antimicrobial strategies for improving orthopaedic implants to prevent prosthetic joint infections in hip and knee
Authors: Getzlaf Matthew A. , Lewallen Eric A. , Kremers Hilal M. , Jones Dakota L. , Bonin Carolina A. , Dudakovic Amel , Thaler Roman , Cohen Robert C. , Lewallen David G. , van Wijnen Andre J.
Published: October 2015

Like any foreign object, orthopaedic implants are susceptible to infection when introduced into the human body. Without additional preventative measures, the absolute number of annual prosthetic joint infections will continue to rise, and may exceed the capacity of health care systems in the near future. Bacteria are difficult to eradicate from synovial joints due to their exceptionally diverse taxonomy, complex mechanistic attachment capabilities, and tendency to evolve antibiotic resistance. When a primary orthopaedic implant fails from prosthetic joint infection, surgeons are generally challenged by limited options for intervention. In this review, we highlight the etiology and taxonomic groupings of bacteria known to cause prosthetic joint infections, and examine their key mechanisms of attachment. We propose that antimicrobial strategies should focus on the most harmful bacteria taxa within the context of occurrence, taxonomic diversity, adhesion mechanisms, and implant design. Patient‐specific identification of organisms that cause prosthetic joint infections will permit assessment of their biological vulnerabilities. The latter can be targeted using a range of antimicrobial techniques that exploit different colonization mechanisms including implant surface attachment, biofilm formation, and/or hematogenous recruitment. We anticipate that customized strategies for each patient, joint, and prosthetic component will be most effective at reducing prosthetic joint infections, including those caused by antibiotic‐resistant and polymicrobial bacteria. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:177–186, 2016.
Relationship between phoria and visual fatigue in autostereoscopic 3D displays
Authors: Wang Qin , Wang Qiong‐Hua , Liu Chun‐Ling
Published: October 2015

Many people complain about visual fatigue arising from viewing three‐dimensional (3D) displays. This paper investigates relationship between visual fatigue and viewers' phoria for viewing autostereoscopic 3D displays. Visual fatigue is evaluated through subjective symptoms with a questionnaire and optometric indicators comprising fusion range as well as accommodation convergence/accommodation (AC/A) ratio to measure the variation in visual functions. A screening test is adopted to divide the subjects into two groups based on whether they suffer from phoria. Then a 2 × 2 × 2 mixed design experiment is conducted with display type, viewing stage, and visual state as factors to examine visual fatigue during viewing session. The results show that phoria subjects obtain more severe visual fatigue than normal on subjective evaluation. The normal subjects reveal a more marked difference with phoria in fusion range and AC/A ratio after viewing 3D video clip. Fusion range can significantly distinguish between the two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D condition as well as between the pre‐ and post‐viewing stages. The sensitivity and specificity of fusion range is higher than AC/A ratio with respect to viewing of 3D contents, so it is more appropriate as an optometric indicator of visual fatigue for autostereoscopic 3D displays.
International survey on the identification and neural monitoring of the EBSLN during thyroidectomy
Authors: Barczyński Marcin , Randolph Gregory W. , Cernea Claudio ,   The International Neural Monitoring Study Group in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery
Published: October 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

Surgical management of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) during thyroidectomy is complex. We hypothesized that there exist variations in surgical behaviors patterns in the management of the EBSLN during thyroidectomy .

Study Design

A prospective Web‐based anonymous survey (www.surveymonkey.com).

Methods

The survey, consisting of 22 questions including surgeon demographics, laryngeal examination before and after surgery, and utilization of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) for the management of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) and the EBSLN, was sent to 673 surgeons worldwide with known interest in thyroid surgery.

Results

A total of 170/673 (25.3%) surgeons from five continents with low‐volume (11.2%), moderate‐volume (27.2%), and high‐volume practices (61.5%) completed the survey. Laryngeal preoperative examination was performed by 94% of respondents. IONM was utilized in the RLN management by 95% of respondents. IONM was used for identification of the EBSLN by 26.3% of low‐volume versus 68.4% of high‐volume surgeons (P = .004), and 93% of respondents felt EBSLN identification with IONM as necessary in voice professionals. Staged thyroidectomy was performed for benign disease by 89.5% of low‐volume versus 63.2% of high‐volume surgeons (P = .031). Post–thyroid surgery laryngeal examination was performed by 36.8% of low‐volume versus 64.9% of high‐volume surgeons (P = .032).

Conclusions

Laryngeal examination and IONM is used frequently. However, the exact pattern of utilization varies notably with demographic information. Generally, high‐volume surgeons, those with otolaryngology background, and younger surgeons more commonly utilize IONM according to existing international neural monitoring study group guidelines. Prospective multicenter studies are needed to guide an evidence‐based management of the EBSLN during thyroidectomy.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 126:285–291, 2016
PolyDOPA Mussel‐Inspired Coating as a Means for Hydroxyapatite Entrapment on Polytetrafluoroethylene Surface for Application in Periodontal Diseases
Authors: Nardo Tiziana , Chiono Valeria , Ciardelli Gianluca , Tabrizian Maryam
Published: October 2015

Inert polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes for periodontal regeneration suffer from weak osteoconductive properties. In this work, a strategy for hydroxyapatite (HAp) coating on PTFE films through an adhesive layer of self‐polymerized 3,4‐dihydroxy‐DL‐phenylalanine (polyDOPA) was developed to improve surface properties. Physico‐chemical and morphological analysis demonstrated the deposition of polyDOPA and HAp, with an increase in surface roughness and wettability. A discontinuous coating was present after 14 days in PBS and MC3T3‐E1 cells proliferation and adhesion were improved. Results confirmed the potential application of polyDOPA/HAp‐coated films for periodontal disease treatments.
A Periosteum‐Inspired 3D Hydrogel‐Bioceramic Composite for Enhanced Bone Regeneration
Authors: Chun Yong Yao , Wang Jun Kit , Tan Nguan Soon , Chan Peggy Puk Yik , Tan Timothy Thatt Yang , Choong Cleo
Published: October 2015

A 3D injectable hydrogel‐bioceramic composite consisting of gelatin‐3‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl) propionic acid (Gtn‐HPA) and carboxymethyl cellulose‐tyramine (CMC‐Tyr), incorporated with fish scale‐derived calcium phosphate (CaP), is developed for bone applications. The hydrogel‐bioceramic composite has significantly improved the elastic modulus compared to the non‐filled hydrogel, of which the addition of 10 w/v% CaP showed zero order fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐dextran release profile and a significantly higher proliferation rate of encapsulated cells. All the samples promote the nucleation and growth of CaP minerals when exposed to 1× SBF. Overall, the hydrogel‐bioceramic composite with 10 w/v% CaP can potentially be used as a periosteum‐mimicking membrane to facilitate bone regeneration.
Melt Processed PCL/PEG Scaffold With Discrete Pore Size Gradient for Selective Cellular Infiltration
Authors: Scaffaro Roberto , Lopresti Francesco , Botta Luigi , Rigogliuso Salvatrice , Ghersi Giulio
Published: October 2015

In order to develop scaffold able to mimic the natural gradient properties of tissues, biphasic and triphasic approaches were adopted. In this work, polycaprolactone/polyethylene glycol (PCL/PEG) scaffolds were prepared by using a combination of melt mixing and selective leaching without harmful solvents. The method permitted to develop three‐layer scaffolds with high control of porosity and pore size. The mechanical properties were evaluated under physiological condition in order to simulate the real conditions of work. Co‐culture of osteoblastic and fibroblastic mice cells were carried out in order to study the differential cellular permeation through the different pore size layers.
Semiclassical ground state solutions for a Schrödinger equation in with critical exponential growth
Authors: Tao Bo , Liu Zhibin , Yang Minbo
Published: October 2015

Consider a Schrödinger equation

urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201400267:mana201400267-math-0002where and are two continuous real functions on , ε is a positive parameter, the nonlinearity f is assumed to be of critical exponential growth in the sense of the Trudinger‐Moser inequality. By truncating the potentials and , we are able to establish some new existence and concentration results for critical Schrödinger equation in by variational methods. As a particular case, we observe that the concentration appears at the maximum set of the nonlinear potential which complements the results in , .
Multiplicity results for a class of boundary value problems with impulsive effects
Authors: Shi Hongxia , Chen Haibo
Published: October 2015

In this paper we study a class of boundary value problems with impulsive effects. Under some natural assumptions, by using Morse theory in combination with the minimax arguments, we establish some new results on the existence of multiple nontrivial solutions for the problems. Recent results from the literature are improved and extended.
Fish protein increases circulating levels of trimethylamine‐N‐oxide and accelerates aortic lesion formation in apoE null mice
Authors: Yazdekhasti Narges , Brandsch Corinna , Schmidt Nadine , Schloesser Anke , Huebbe Patricia , Rimbach Gerald , Stangl Gabriele I.
Published: October 2015

Scope

The protective effect of fish consumption on the cardiovascular system has primarily been ascribed to n‐3 fatty acids, but data investigating the vascular effects of fish protein consumption are scarce. This study aimed to investigate the vascular impact of fish protein in a mouse model of atherosclerosis.

Methods and results

Male apoE null mice were fed a Western diet containing 20% fish (turbot) protein, casein, or soy protein, for 16 wk. Morphometric analysis of the aorta revealed that the atherosclerotic plaque area of fish protein fed mice was twofold larger than that in casein‐ or soy protein‐fed mice. The percentage area of calcification deposits in plaques of fish protein fed mice was higher (7.57%) than that in casein‐fed (2.86%) or soy protein‐fed (3.46%) mice, and fish protein fed mice exhibited higher plaque expression of CD68, CD36, and IL‐6 than the other two groups. Fish protein intake was accompanied by increased serum concentrations of trimethylamine‐N‐oxide (7.03 ± 2.83 μmol/L), as compared with casein (0.92 ± 0.46 μmol/L) and soy protein (1.32 ± 0.54 μmol/L) intake.

Conclusion

The present data indicate adverse effects of fish protein on the vascular system, which could be attributable to the high serum trimethylamine‐N‐oxide concentrations in these mice.
Evaluation of a three‐dimensional MR acoustic radiation force imaging pulse sequence using a novel unbalanced bipolar motion encoding gradient
Authors: de Bever Joshua T. , Odéen Henrik , Todd Nick , Farrer Alexis I. , Parker Dennis L.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

MR guided focused ultrasound procedures require accurate focal spot localization in three dimensions. This study presents a three‐dimensional (3D) pulse sequence for acoustic radiation force imaging (ARFI) that efficiently localizes the focal spot by means of ultrasound induced tissue displacement over a large field‐of‐view.

Methods

A novel unbalanced bipolar motion encoding gradient was implemented to maximize time available for motion encoding, reduce echo times, and allow for longer echo train lengths. Two advanced features, kz reduction factor (KZRF) and kz‐level interleaving, were implemented to reduce tissue heating. Studies in gelatin phantoms compared the location of peak displacement and temperature measured by 3D MR thermometry. MR‐ARFI induced tissue heating was evaluated through a parametric study of sequence parameters and MR thermometry measurements during repeated application of ARFI sonication patterns. Sequence performance was characterized in the presence of respiration and tissue inhomogeneity.

Results

The location of peak displacement and temperature rise agreed within 0.2 ± 0.1 mm and 0.5 ± 0.3 mm in the transverse and longitudinal direction, respectively. The 3D displacement maps were acquired safely, and the KZRF and kz‐level interleaving features reduced tissue heating by 51%. High quality displacement maps were obtained despite respiration and tissue inhomogeneities.

Conclusion

This sequence provides a safe, accurate, and simple approach to localizing the focal spot in three dimensions with a single scan. Magn Reson Med 76:803–813, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kekulé und die makromolekulare Chemie
Authors: Braun Dietrich
Published: October 2015

Die Grundlagen der organischen Chemie basieren auf den Arbeiten der großen Chemiker des 19. Jahrhunderts. Eine der wichtigsten Errungenschaften war die Aufklärung der Benzolstruktur im Jahr 1865. Aber August Kekulés Ideen hatten noch bedeutendere Folgen als allgemein bekannt.
Evidence of vagus nerve sprouting to innervate the urinary bladder and clitoris in a canine model of lower motoneuron lesioned bladder
Authors: Barbe Mary F. , Gomez‐Amaya Sandra , Braverman Alan S. , Brown Justin M. , Lamarre Neil S. , Massicotte Vicky S. , Lewis Jennifer K.S. , Dachert Stephen R. , Ruggieri Michael R.
Published: October 2015

Aims

Complete spinal cord injury does not block perceptual responses or inferior solitary nucleus activation after genital self‐stimulation, even though the vagus is not thought to innervate pelvic structures. We tested if vagus nerve endings sprout after bladder decentralization to innervate genitourinary structures in canines with decentralized bladders.

Methods

Four reinnervation surgeries were performed in female hounds: bilateral genitofemoral nerve transfer to pelvic nerve with vesicostomy (GNF‐V) or without (GFN‐NV); and left femoral nerve transfer (FNT‐V and FNT‐NV). After 8 months, retrograde dyes were injected into genitourinary structures. Three weeks later, at euthanasia, reinnervation was evaluated as increased detrusor pressure induced by functional electrical stimulation (FES). Controls included un‐operated, sham‐operated, and decentralized animals.

Results

Increased detrusor pressure was seen in 8/12 GFNT‐V, 4/5 GFNT‐NV, 5/5 FNT‐V, and 4/5 FNT‐NV animals after FES, but not decentralized controls. Lumbar cord segments contained cells labeled from the bladder in all nerve transfer animals with FES‐induced increased detrusor pressure. Nodose ganglia cells labeled from the bladder were observed in 5/7 nerve transfer animals (1/2 GNT‐NV; 4/5 FNT‐V), and from the clitoris were in 6/7 nerve transfer animals (2/2 GFNT‐NV; 4/5 FNT‐V). Dorsal motor nucleus vagus cells labeled from the bladder were observed in 3/5 nerve transfer animals (1/2 GFNT‐NV; 2/3 FNT‐V), and from the clitoris in 4/5 nerve transfer animals (1/2 GFNT‐NV; 3/3 FNT‐V). Controls lacked this labeling.

Conclusions

Evidence of vagal nerve sprouting to the bladder and clitoris was observed in canines with lower motoneuron lesioned bladders. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:91–97, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bad Versus Good, What Matters More on the Treatment Floor? Relationships of Positive and Negative Events With Nurses’ Burnout and Engagement
Authors: Sinclair Robert R. , Sliter Michael , Mohr Cynthia D. , Sears Lindsay E. , Deese Marylin Nicole , Wright Robert R. , Cadiz David , Jacobs Laurie
Published: October 2015

Many investigators have reported the stressful aspects of nursing; fewer have focused on nurses' positive work experiences. For this study, we developed a 2 × 2 typology of positive and negative events related to the tasks of nursing work and the social and organizational context of that work: successes, supports, constraints, and conflicts. We hypothesized that positive events would predict engagement, negative events would predict burnout, and negative events would be more strongly related to both burnout and engagement. In secondary analyses of data from 310 acute care nurses who completed survey measures of workplace events at one time point and burnout and engagement measures approximately eight months later, regression results indicated that both positive and negative work events contributed to engagement, whereas only negative events were related to burnout. The results of dominance analyses established that constraints and conflicts more strongly predicted burnout than did supports and successes. Additionally, consistent with a “bad is stronger than good” perspective, the strongest predictor of engagement was lower constraints, although successes, supports, and conflicts also predicted engagement. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structure and properties of partially cyclized polyacrylonitrile‐based carbon fiber—precursor fiber prepared by melt‐spun with ionic liquid as the medium of processing
Authors: Liu Shuping , Han Keqing , Chen Lei , Zheng Ying , Yu Muhuo
Published: October 2015

Carbon fiber has many excellent properties. Currently, the precursor fiber of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based carbon fiber is made from solution by wet or dry spinning process that requires expensive solvents and costly solvent recovery. To solve this problem, we developed a melt‐spun process with ionic liquid as the medium of processing. The melt‐spun precursor fiber exhibited partially cyclized structure. The structure and properties of the melt‐spun PAN precursor fiber were analyzed by combination of scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, ultraviolet spectroscopy, flotation technique, sound velocity orientation test, linear density, and tensile strength tests. The results showed that the tensile strength of melt‐spun PAN precursor fiber was fairly high reached up to 7.0 cN/dtex. The reason was the low imperfect morphology and a cyclized structure formed by in situ chemical reaction during melt‐spun process. Due to the existence of partially cyclized structure in the melt‐spun PAN precursor fiber, exothermic process was mitigated and the heat evolved decreased during thermal stabilization stage in comparison with commercial precursor fibers produced by solution‐spun, which could shorten the residence time of thermal stabilization and reduce the cost of final carbon fiber. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2722–2728, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Assembly of layered double hydroxide on multi‐walled carbon nanotubes as reinforcing hybrid nanofiller in thermoplastic polyurethane/nitrile butadiene rubber blends
Authors: Roy Saheli , Srivastava Suneel Kumar , Pionteck Jürgen , Mittal Vikas
Published: October 2015

An efficient approach has been applied to assemble MgAl layered double hydroxide onto pristine carbon nanotubes using sodium dodecylsulfate. The assembling process and formation of such hybrid nanostructures were established using X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Subsequently, the hybrid was used as nanofiller in the development of high‐performance thermoplastic polyurethane/acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (1:1 w/w) blend nanocomposites. Measurements of mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties show that tensile strength, elongation at break and storage modulus improve significantly by 171%, 1.8 times and 241% in a blend with 0.50 wt% loading of hybrid filler. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the thermal stability of the blend with 0.50 wt% hybrid filler compared to neat material is maximally improved by 20 °C determined at 50% weight loss. Differential scanning calorimetry shows the maximum enhancement in melting temperature (7 °C) and crystallization temperature (31 °C) due to significant nucleation efficiency of the filler, homogeneous dispersion and strong interfacial interaction between polymer matrix and filler. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Brush polymer ion gels
Authors: Bates Christopher M. , Chang Alice B. , Schulze Morgan W. , Momčilović Nebojša , Jones Simon C. , Grubbs Robert H.
Published: October 2015

The structure, rheological response, and ionic conductivity of ABA brush block copolymer (BBCP) ion gels containing 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([BMI][TFSI]) at polymer concentrations spanning 5‐50 wt % (Φgel) were studied by small angle X‐ray scattering, dynamic mechanical analysis, and AC impedance spectroscopy. Application of a hard sphere form factor and Percus‐Yevick structure factor reveals trends in gel micellar structure as a function of BBCP molecular weight, A block volume fraction (ΦA), and Φgel. Viscoelastic properties are strongly dependent on end‐block molar mass, with storage moduli ≤103 Pa at 25 °C. Impedance measurements reveal near liquid‐like dynamics in the matrix phase as evidenced by conductivities near 1 mS/cm at 25 °C that decrease with increasing Φgel and ΦA. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 292–300
Uniform Nanosecond Pulsed Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Enhances Anti‐Tumor Effects by Induction of Immunogenic Cell Death in Tumors and Stimulation of Macrophages
Authors: Lin Abraham , Truong Billy , Pappas Arthur , Kirifides Lawrence , Oubarri Ahmed , Chen Shuyang , Lin Shaojun , Dobrynin Danil , Fridman Gregory , Fridman Alexander , Sang Nianli , Miller Vandana
Published: October 2015

Several have shown plasma to be efficacious against cancer cells in vitro and in vivo with minimal damage to non‐cancerous cells and tissue. Most are focused on direct influence of plasma on tumor cells. However, the body's immune system also plays a crucial role in the control of cancer. A new concept of immunogenic cell death (ICD) has been emerging, where through this modality of cell death, an immune response may be stimulated. The goal of the presented study was to explore a regime of plasma treatment that induces ICD in tumor cells and stimulates anti‐tumor effects in macrophages‐ a key immune cell type involved in the initiation of immunological responses. Here, we show that treatment with uniform nanosecond pulsed dielectric barrier discharge (nspDBD) plasma directly activated anti‐tumor effects in macrophages. We further show macrophage activation following the expression of plasma‐induced damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) in tumor cells, characteristic of ICD.
Where is the limit? Yield strength improvement in silicon micro‐structures by surface treatments
Authors: Schifferle Andreas , Bandi Tobias , Neels Antonia , Dommann Alex
Published: October 2015

Imperfections, like surface roughness and defects, introduced by common manufacturing processes are recognized to favor failure of microfabricated components and systems. Up to now only a reduced part of the ideal strength prediction by zero Kelvin quantum mechanical ab initio calculations could be recovered for micrometer‐sized structures manufactured with DRIE. Within the present work the high‐loading fracture behavior of group IV semiconductors is investigated on the basis of specific DRIE‐etched micrometer‐sized single crystal silicon (SCSI) specimens. Aiming an enhancement of the surface quality, the samples are post‐treated using wet etchants, such as KOH and HNA and oxidation processes, such as thermal and hydrogen oxidation. The resistance of the specimens against mechanical loading is assessed by 2‐point bending tests applying a testing procedure which is outstanding due to its simplicity in handling and reproducibility of the measurement results. The experiments are analyzed and evaluated for Young's modulus, fracture and bending strength. Dependent on the particular treatment method, remarkable improvements of fracture strain and stress of up to ϵmax = 5.7% and σmax = 8.8 GPa are realized.
Influence of titanium and oxygen vacancies on the transport and conducting properties of barium titanate
Authors: Zulueta Y. A. , Dawson J. A. , Leyet Y. , Guerrero F. , Anglada‐Rivera J. , Nguyen M. T.
Published: October 2015

The transport and conducting properties of oxygen and titanium deficient cubic barium titanate (BT) were studied using atomistic simulations. The thermal expansion coefficient is shown to decrease when the number of titanium and oxygen vacancies increases. The influence of point defect concentration on the diffusion and conduction activation energies is determined, and the values are in good agreement with available experimental results. We also considered the defect energetics for formation of Ti and O vacancies using two proven interatomic potential models. Lattice static simulations reveal that strong binding energies exist for the trimer defect arrangement of , and that they are similar to the formation enthalpy of rutile TiO2, implying that a strong driving force for the formation of this cluster defect is present. The results reported here can provide some helpful guidelines for optimization of the properties and functionalities of BT based on titanium and oxygen vacancies.
Robot‐assisted laparoscopic resection of large retroperitoneal paraganglioma – initial experience from China
Authors: Xia Leilei , Xu Tianyuan , Wang Xianjin , Qin Liang , Zhang Xiang , Zhang Xiaohua , Zhu Zhaowei , Zhong Shan , Shen Zhoujun
Published: October 2015

Background

There have been only four cases of robot‐assisted laparoscopic resection of retroperitoneal paraganglioma (PGL) in the literature. Here we present our experience on robot‐assisted laparoscopic resection of large PGL in four patients to further evaluate its safety and efficacy.

Methods

From March 2013 to January 2015, four patients with large PGL underwent robot‐assisted laparoscopic resection. The tumors were located on the left side and adjacent to the aorta. Patients' demographics, intraoperative and postoperative data were collected, including intraoperative hemodynamic outcomes.

Results

In all cases, the PGLs were successfully removed robotically without conversion to open surgery and no intraoperative or postoperative complication occurred. The operative time ranged from 58–113 min, and estimated blood loss ranged from 50–350 mL. There were no significant intraoperative hemodynamic instabilities. The postoperative hospital stay ranged from 4–6 days.

Conclusions

With the advantages of robotic system, robot‐assisted resection of large retroperitoneal PGL is feasible, safe and efficient. The robotic system has the potential to expand surgical treatment modalities for complex PGL. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using motion parallax for laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Su He , Li Jianmin , Zhang Huaifeng , Li Jinhua , Wang Shuxin
Published: October 2015

Background

In typical stereo display systems, the reproduced 3D scene is distorted when the observer moves. Motion parallax is an important depth cue that has the ability to correct this distortion. More importantly, motion parallax enables the observer to look around objects to provide a better view.

Methods

A robotically assisted laparoscope prototype was designed to provide motion parallax. A study to adjust the camera‐head mapping ratio (gain of motion parallax) was performed. A series of phantom tests was conducted to test the effectiveness of motion parallax.

Results

The experimental results showed that the motion parallax was effective, and the gain of motion parallax was subjective. For a regular laparoscope view distance, larger image zooming rates required smaller gain; for the same equivalent image size, further observer distance decreased the optimal gain.

Conclusions

Motion parallax could be used for improved visualization in laparoscopic surgery. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perturbation meets key‐based interval splitting arithmetic coding: security enhancement and chaos generalization
Authors: Zhang Yushu , Xiao Di , Wong Kwok‐Wo , Zhou Jiantao , Bai Sen , Su Moting
Published: October 2015

Key‐based interval splitting arithmetic coding (KAC) possesses both encryption and compression capabilities. However, it possesses vulnerability to chosen‐plaintext attack because the attacker can explore the relationship between the key and the codeword to deduce the secret key. In order to resist this attack, we propose to introduce perturbation into KAC. The perturbation‐based KAC not only avoids the flaw of KAC that the splitting keys are usually located at the endpoint of certain codeword or at the border of two codewords but also removes the restriction that the keys are only allowed in certain sub‐intervals, which result in great convenience to the key scheduler. In addition, based on generalized arithmetic coding using Generalized Luröth Series, we study the phase‐space splitting of a chaotic map for generalized KAC and suggest the generalized perturbation‐based KAC. This leads to the design of a joint compression and encryption scheme with more powerful cryptographic features. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.