bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional properties and in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial effectiveness of pigskin gelatin films incorporated with hydrolysable chestnut tannin
Authors: Peña-Rodriguez Cristina , Martucci Josefa F , Neira Laura M , Arbelaiz Aitor , Eceiza Arantxa , Ruseckaite Roxana A
Published: May 2014

The impact of the incorporation of 10% w/w of hydrolyzable chestnut tannin into pigskin gelatin (G) films plasticized with glycerol (Gly) on the physicochemical properties as well as the in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial effectiveness against food-borne pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Streptococcus aureus was investigated. A higher tendency to both redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) coloration characterized gelatin films incorporated with chestnut tannin. The reduced lightness (L) and transparency of gelatin–chestnut tannin films plasticized with 30% w/w Gly might be associated with certain degree of phase separation which provoked the migration of the plasticizer to the film surface. The incorporation of chestnut tannin and glycerol affected the chemical structure of the resultant films due to the establishment of hydrogen interactions between components as revealed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. These interactions reduced gelatin crystallinity and seemed to be involved in the substantial decrease of the water uptake of films with tannin, irrespective of the glycerol level. Such interactions had minor effect on tensile properties being similar to those of the control films (without chestnut tannin) at the same glycerol level. Films modified with 10% w/w chestnut tannin showed significant (P < 0.05) 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, ca. from 0 ± 0.033 to 87.1 ± 0.002% for chestnut tannin-free and chestnut tannin-containing gelatin films. The limited inhibitory activity of films incorporated with 10% w/w chestnut tannin against the selected bacteria evidenced by disk diffusion method probably resulted from the interactions within the film restricting the diffusion of the active agent into the agar medium. The more modest protective effect observed against a Gram-positive bacterium ( S. aureus) was also discussed.
Effect of microwave blanching on the quality of frozen Agaricus bisporus
Authors: Bernaś Emilia , Jaworska Grażyna
Published: May 2014

The aim of this work was to determine the effect of microwave blanching on the levels of selected quality parameters in frozen Agaricus bisporus. Before freezing, mushrooms underwent one of the following treatments: blanching in water; blanching in a solution of sodium metabisulphite and citric acid; microwaving for 5 min; and combined blanching (first in water, then in a microwave oven). Products were freeze stored for 8 months at –25 ℃. Frozen storage resulted in decreased levels of vitamin B1, total polyphenols and antioxidant activity of 10–49%, as well as an increase in polyphenol oxidase activity compared with products immediately after freezing. The values for most colour parameters and whiteness intensity decreased, while cream, yellow, brown and grey saturation increased. There was a considerable deterioration in sensory quality, particularly colour. Microwave-blanched products had significantly higher dry matter, ash, vitamin B1 and B2 content than the remaining products as well as half the polyphenol oxidase activity. Total polyphenols and antioxidant activity were highest in the product blanched in the sodium metabisulphite solution, followed by the microwave-blanched product. Compared with the product blanched using sodium metabisulphite, microwave-blanched mushrooms showed slightly greater darkening but were superior in flavour and aroma.
Partial sodium replacement in tilapia steak without loss of acceptability
Authors: Monteiro Maria Lúcia G , Mársico Eliane T , Canto Anna Carolina VCS , Costa-Lima Bruno RC , Lázaro César A , Cruz Adriano G , Conte-Júnior Carlos A
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate physical and sensory characteristics of low-sodium tilapia steaks restructured with microbial transglutaminase. Polyphosphate (0.4%), condiment mixes—onion powder and garlic powder (2.5%), water (10.0%), transglutaminase (1.0%), and different types of salts (1.5%) were mixed with non-commercial sized fillets. Substitution of NaCl by KCl or MgCl2 (at 50% each) affected quality attributes and decreased ( P < 0.05) consumer acceptability. The tri-salt steaks (KCl, MgCl2, and NaCl at 1:1:2 ratio) improved some attributes and increased ( P < 0.05) acceptability and purchase intention. We conclude that potassium and magnesium chlorides are possible replacers of salt (NaCl) in restructured tilapia steaks and potentially decrease the risk factor for heart failure associated with high sodium consumption.
Rheological and physical properties of gelatin suspensions containing cellulose nanofibers for potential coatings
Authors: Andrade Ricardo D , Skurtys Olivier , Osorio Fernando , Zuluaga Robin , Gañán Piedad , Castro Cristina
Published: May 2014

Rheological and physical properties of edible coating formulations containing gelatin, cellulose nanofibers (CNFs), and glycerol are characterized. Measured properties are analyzed in order to optimize edible coating thickness. Results show that coating formulations density increases linearly with gelatin concentration in presence of CNFs. Surface tension decreases with either gelatin or CNF concentration increases. Power law model well described the rheological behavior of edible coating formulations since determination coefficient was high (R2 > 0.98) and standard error was low (SE < 0.0052). Formulations showed pseudoplastic (shear-thinning) flow behavior and no time-dependent features were observed. The flow behavior index was not significantly affected by any factor. Consistency coefficient increases with gelatin concentrations but it decreases with glycerol concentrations.
From Aquí and Allá
Authors: Honeyford Michelle A.
Published: May 2014

Drawing upon notions of symbolic representation and transcultural repositioning, this study uses visual and critical discourse analyses to examine a multimodal photo essay created by seventh- and eighth-grade immigrant youth in an English as a New Language (ENL) class. Collectively titled “I am from aquí and allá” by the students, the photo essay was installed as a public exhibit for an Open House culminating a year-long literacy inquiry the students called “the culture project.” Through analyses of students’ images and captions, I point to examples of symbolic convergence: the practice of bringing together the multiple sites/sights of students’ diasporic identities; offering others alternative sites/sights from which to understand them; and creating new sites/sights from which to position themselves to learn, participate, and contribute to change. The article discusses how this particular multimodal artifact suggests the need for further dialogue about the value of local, learner-centered literacy pedagogies and practice in a time of increasing commercialization and standardization of curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Texture analysis of self-structured surfaces in formation process using directional fractal signature method
Authors: Wolski M , Podsiadlo P , Stachowiak GW
Published: May 2014

The range of applications for self-structured surfaces is growing. They are used to increase wear resistance, reduce friction and corrosion, and also used in design of biosensors and innovative coatings. However, to effectively manufacture these surfaces on a large scale, methods for their texture characterisation/description are required. Currently, we do not have any effective and accurate methods to characterise these surfaces. This is severely hindering their wider applications and further developments in this area. The texture of self-structured surfaces, like any texture of any other surface, would need to be characterised/described during the formation (production) process and for specific applications. During formation process, the self-structured surfaces change texture roughness and directionality. These changes are gradual, complex and occur over many scales. In this work, a recently developed method, called an augmented blanket with rotating grid method, is applied to microscopic images of real self-structured surface textures. Groups of isotropic and anisotropic texture images were analysed. In the first group the textures were formed through the growth of nanorods on indium oxide substrates while in another the laser beam irradiation was used to treat the polymer films. Results obtained showed that the augmented blanket with rotating grid method accurately quantifies minute decreases in roughness of isotropic surfaces and changes in roughness with directions of anisotropic surfaces observed during the formation process.
A pilot test of a new tool for remote blood pressure monitoring
Authors: Boman Kurt , Brenander Andre , Gustavsson Mats , Furberg Curt D
Published: May 2014

We conducted a pilot trial of a remote blood pressure (BP) monitoring system, in which subjects measured their own BP at a primary healthcare centre. The data were wirelessly transmitted to the general practitioner. A total of 132 subjects with a new or prior diagnosis of hypertension were enrolled. Their mean age was 61 years and 77 were men (58%). They were followed for an average of 487 days (range 19–1110). The median number of BP measurements made was 6 per patient (range 2–49). The mean blood pressure decreased from 137/85 to 132/78 mmHg ( P < 0.001) and the percentage of subjects with adequately controlled BP (defined as < 140/90 mmHg) increased from 47 to 66% ( P < 0.01). Randomised trials are now required to confirm these findings.
How well do websites concerning children’s anxiety answer parents’ questions about treatment choices?
Authors: Reynolds Kristin A , Walker John R , Walsh Kate ,   The Mobilizing Minds Research Group
Published: May 2014

The goals of this study were to evaluate the quality of information concerning anxiety disorders in children that is available on the Internet and to evaluate changes in the quality of website information over time. The authors identified websites addressing child anxiety disorders ( N = 26) using a Google search and recommendations from an expert in child anxiety. Each website was evaluated on the extent to which it addressed questions that parents consider important, the quality of information, and the reading level. All websites provided adequate information describing treatment options; however, fewer websites had information addressing many questions that are important to parents, including the duration of treatment, what happens when treatment stops, and the benefits and risks of various treatments. Many websites provided inadequate information on pharmacological treatment. Most websites were of moderate quality and had more difficult reading levels than is recommended. Five years after the initial assessment, authors re-analyzed the websites in order to investigate changes in content over time. The content of only six websites had been updated since the original analysis, the majority of which improved on the three aforementioned areas of evaluation. Websites could be strengthened by providing important information that would support parent decision-making.
Aliskiren in early postnatal life prevents hypertension and reduces asymmetric dimethylarginine in offspring exposed to maternal caloric restriction
Authors: Hsu Chien-Ning , Lee Chien-Te , Huang Li-Tung , Tain You-Lin
Published: May 2014

Introduction:

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase, is involved in hypertension. We tested whether aliskiren treatment in early postnatal life can reduce ADMA and regulate the renin-angiotensin system to prevent hypertension in rat offspring exposed to maternal caloric restriction (CR).

Materials and methods:

Four groups of 12-week-old male offspring were sacrificed: control, CR, CR+aliskiren, and CR+losartan group. The CR group included offspring from 50% food-restricted maternal rats. The CR+aliskiren and CR+losartan groups were produced by treating CR offspring with oral aliskiren 10 mg/kg/day or losartan 20 mg/kg/day between 2–4 weeks of age, respectively.

Results:

Blood pressure increased in CR rats, which was prevented by aliskiren or losartan. CR increased plasma ADMA levels, which aliskiren prevented. Renal renin and prorenin receptor (PRR) expression increased in CR rats treated with aliskiren, whereas both were reduced by losartan. Both aliskiren and losartan decreased renal mRNA expression of angiotensinogen, angiotensin II type 2 receptor, and Mas in CR rats. However, aliskiren increased angiotensin II type 2 receptor and Mas protein levels in CR kidneys.

Conclusions:

Early aliskiren therapy prevents CR-induced hypertension via ADMA reduction, decreases angiotensinogen expression, and increases renal angiotensin II type 2 receptor and Mas protein.
The young consumer-citizen
Authors: Davis Teresa , Francis Julie E.
Published: May 2014

The environmental consumer-citizen has become a global master narrative that is the outcome of environmental discourse ( Darier, 1999 ; Harper, 2001 ). In this article, we examine a particular strand of the environmental citizen identity in the context of environmental and consumption consciousness. Through interviews with Australian children about themselves, their consumption, and their links to local and larger global communities, we uncover an adapted strand of this narrative. A local transformation of the master narrative on environmental citizenship is seen in the national identity narrative of the ‘ethno-consumer’. This identity narrative is one of the ‘good’ green Australian consumer-citizen constructed in relation to regional political and economic discourses. We uncover how this strand of environmental consciousness is used as identity capital in children’s narratives of self and nation (Hage, 1998). We suggest that there exist several levels of identity narratives. In this particular context, the national identity narrative appears to adapt and accommodate, but also dominate, the global master narrative for these children.
Sonas
Authors: Hutson Charlotte , Orrell Martin , Dugmore Ottilie , Spector Aimee
Published: May 2014

Objective:

To investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of Sonas, a group intervention involving multisensory stimulation, reminiscence, and light physical activity.

Methods:

A total of 39 participants with moderate to severe dementia were randomized to receive either 14 sessions of Sonas or treatment as usual. Measures such as quality of life (QoL), communication, depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbance were administered at baseline and follow-up.

Results:

No statistically significant results were found. However, participant attendance to sessions was good (mean = 12.4 sessions of 14 offered).

Conclusions:

Sonas sessions did not lead to improvements in QoL and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
School leadership preparation and development in Africa
Authors: Eacott Scott , Asuga Gladys Nyanchama
Published: May 2014

When it comes to organizational performance, leaders matter. Without significant attention to the preparation and development of school leaders, government initiatives aimed at building world class education systems are unlikely to succeed. Across the Anglophone world leadership preparation and development has become a key leverage point in education policy, with many nations establishing systems of licensing, accreditation and mandatory programmes. Outside the Anglophone world and central powers of the global north, school leadership preparation and development exists in a highly contested space that balances colonial legacy, deficit thinking and an unrelenting desire to compete on a global scale, with calls for localized knowledge, values and histories. In this article we problematize this context by arguing that the ontological complicity of policy interventions – particularly those funded by the global north – is shaping African developments in a manner that is exclusive of localized knowledge and in doing so, constrains that which it sort to improve in the first place. We build our argument on two key points: first, the centrality of preparation programmes in our understanding of educational leadership, management and administration, and second, the apparent absence of interrogation of the socio-political work of constructing the research object. What we propose is a greater need to focus on the epistemological preliminaries of research, rather than just the confirmation or disconfirmation, of the researcher’s model of reality.
Educación sexual: opiniones y propuestas del alumnado y profesorado de los institutos de secundaria de Asturias, España
Authors: García-Vázquez Jose , Ordóñez Adelina L. , Arias-Magadán Sandra
Published: May 2014

Introducción:

La educación sexual en las escuelas es clave para la formación de los jóvenes y hay evidencia de que los programas integrales tienen resultados en mejorar la salud. Sin embargo, a pesar de las numerosas propuestas puestas en marcha en nuestro país, no hay una incorporación efectiva. Este estudio plantea recoger la opinión del alumnado y profesorado de secundaria, así como sus propuestas para la acción.

Métodos:

Se recogió información con grupos focales de alumnado de Secundaria y Bachillerato, y de profesorado, en siete centros educativos, organizados en función de la zona educativa (rural o urbana). En el caso del alumnado, también se tuvo en cuenta el sexo, con grupos de chicos, chicas y mixtos. Se realizó un análisis del discurso y se clasificó la información en actividades realizadas, valoración de las mismas, temas de interés (para el alumnado), dificultades (para el profesorado) y propuestas.

Resultados:

El alumnado había participado en diferentes actividades de educación sexual, como sesiones del profesorado, talleres externos y charlas. La valoración de las mismas fue positiva. Propusieron que la educación sexual se abordase en los centros educativos, ya que en casa sigue siendo un tema tabú, y priorizaron diferentes temas relacionados con la afectividad y las relaciones sexuales. El profesorado destacó numerosas dificultades, entre ellas la falta de tiempo y de formación. Entre sus propuestas está la incorporación curricular desde la Educación Primaria.

Conclusiones:

Las propuestas del alumnado y profesorado recogen parte de los elementos clave para incorporar de forma efectiva educación sexual. Asimismo, apuntan en una dirección clara: el compromiso de las autoridades sanitarias y educativas, proporcionando recursos humanos, materiales y económicos.
I WAS HERE: young mothers who have experienced homelessness use Photovoice and participatory qualitative analysis to demonstrate strengths and assets
Authors: Fortin Rebecca , Jackson Suzanne F. , Maher Jessica , Moravac Catherine
Published: May 2014

Inspired by Photovoice, a participatory research methodology, I WAS HERE was a photoblogging workshop in Toronto, Canada, for young mothers who, when they joined, were either homeless or had past experience of homelessness. A participatory qualitative analysis process was developed to support workshop participants in collectively conducting qualitative analysis on a selection of their photoblogs exploring how they view their lives. Five mothers engaged in the participatory qualitative analysis process to categorize their photoblogs into themes. Participants selected over 70 of their personal photoblogs, discussed the meaning of their photoblogs, and categorized them into qualitative themes. One of the mothers continued work on the research by contributing to the write-up of the themes for publication. Participants, through the reflective dialogue, developed nine themes from the photoblogs that describe how they experience motherhood. The resulting nine themes were as follows: ‘Family’, ‘Reality Check’, ‘Sacrifice for Positive Change’, ‘Support’, ‘Guidance’, ‘Growth and Transition’, ‘Proud of Becoming/Being a Mother’, ‘Passing on/Teaching Values’ and ‘Cherished Moments/Reward for Being a Mother’. These themes illustrate the satisfaction that comes from motherhood, strengths and goals for the future, and the desire for support and guidance. The themes developed from this participatory analysis illustrate that young mothers have a positive view of themselves and their ability to be mothers. This constructive view of young mothers provides an alternative to the negative stereotypes commonly attributed to them. This paper also discusses the strengths and challenges of using a participatory analysis approach. As a research methodology, incorporating procedures for participatory qualitative analysis into the Photovoice process provides an effective mechanism to meaningfully engage participants in qualitative analysis. From a health promotion perspective, using the participatory analysis process expanded the Photovoice methodology to facilitate self-reflection and an empowering collective dialogue among a group of women whose strengths and assets are rarely showcased.
Investigation of the limits of nanoscale filopodial interactions
Authors: McNamara Laura E , Sjöström Terje , Seunarine Krishna , Meek RM Dominic , Su Bo , Dalby Matthew J
Published: May 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells are sensitive to changes in feature height, order and spacing. We had previously noted that there was an inverse relationship between osteoinductive potential and feature height on 15-, 55- and 90 nm-high titania nanopillars, with 15 nm-high pillars being the most effective substrate at inducing osteogenesis of human mesenchymal stem cells. The osteoinductive effect was somewhat diminished by decreasing the feature height to 8 nm, however, which suggested that there was a cut-off point, potentially associated with a change in cell–nanofeature interactions. To investigate this further, in this study, a scanning electron microscopy/three-dimensional scanning electron microscopy approach was used to examine the interactions between mesenchymal stem cells and the 8 and 15 nm nanopillared surfaces. As expected, the cells adopted a predominantly filopodial mode of interaction with the 15 nm-high pillars. Interestingly, fine nanoscale membrane projections, which we have termed ‘nanopodia,’ were also employed by the cells on the 8 nm pillars, and it seems that this is analogous to the cells ‘clinging on with their fingertips’ to this scale of features.
Diagnosis of cardiogenic shock without the use of a pulmonary artery catheter
Authors: Cooper Howard A , Najafi Amir H , Ghafourian Kambiz , Paixao Andre RM , Aljaabari Mohamed , Iantorno Micaela , Caños Daniel , Asch Federico M , Panza Julio A
Published: May 2014

Background:

Current diagnostic criteria for cardiogenic shock (CS) require the use of a pulmonary artery catheter (PAC), which is time-consuming and may cause complications. A set of simple yet accurate noninvasive diagnostic criteria would be of significant utility.

Methods:

Candidate components for the Noninvasive Parameters for Assessment of Cardiogenic Shock (N-PACS) criteria were required to be objective, readily available, and noninvasive. Variables encompassing hypotension, hypoperfusion, predisposing conditions, and elevated intracardiac filling pressures were optimized versus a PAC-based standard in a retrospective developmental cohort of 122 patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The finalized criteria were validated in a prospective cohort of coronary care unit patients in whom a PAC was placed for clinical indications.

Results:

According to invasive criteria, CS was present in 32 of 217 consecutive patients undergoing PAC. Compared to the PAC-based standard, the N-PACS criteria had a sensitivity of 96.9% (95% confidence interval (CI) 82.0–99.8), specificity of 90.8% (95% CI 85.5–94.4), positive predictive value of 64.6% (95% CI 49.4–77.4), negative predictive value of 99.4% (95% CI 96.2–100), positive likelihood ratio of 10.5 (95% CI 6.7–16.7), negative likelihood ratio of 0.03 (95% CI 0.00–0.24), and diagnostic odds ratio of 306.4. Results were similar among patients with and without AMI.

Conclusion:

A simple, echocardiography-based set of noninvasive diagnostic criteria can be used to accurately diagnose CS.
The Problem of the Color Lines in Twenty-first-century Sociology of Education
Authors: Mickelson Roslyn Arlin
Published: May 2014

Sociology in general, and the sociology of education area in particular, must get a better grasp on the fact that the demographics of race, ethnicity, and social class are far more complex than the black–white or brown–white binaries of the recent past. In this article, I consider several manifestations of the emergent contemporary color lines that require innovative research designs, qualitative as well as quantitative data collection, and vigorous policy analyses by sociologists of education. The color line, how we think about it, and how we take it into account in our analyses are all pertinent and pressing issues especially as we consider the changing demographics of the student population; the definitional fluidity of core concepts like minority, diversity, and segregation; the current resegregation of public education by race, ethnic, linguistic status, and family income; and the relationship of the latter to educational outcomes across the life course.
Influence of annealing time on the structure and properties of high-density polyethylene microporous membrane
Authors: Changbin Chen , Caihong Lei , Qi Cai , Haibin Mo , Ruijie Xu
Published: May 2014

The high-density polyethylene microporous membrane was prepared based on melt-stretching mechanism and the influence of annealing time on the structure and properties of initial annealed film and final microporous membrane was investigated using scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and capillary flow porometer. It was found that compared with that without annealing, the main melting peak after annealing for 3 h moved to higher temperature. The corresponding lamellar thickness and elastic recovery values were increased by 13.7 and 30.6%, respectively. The porosity and air permeability property of final microporous membrane were increased by 48.0 and 42.9%, respectively. With increasing the annealing time from 3 to 4 h, the lamellar thickness was decreased from 21.0 to 20.6 nm and the corresponding porosity showed a little decrease from 64.1 to 63.6%. With increasing annealing time, more chains in the amorphous regions were induced to crystallize, resulting in higher lamellar thickness and uniform lamellae distribution. The higher the grown crystalline part was, the higher the pores induced during stretching were, resulting in better air permeability property. Therefore, annealing the polyethylene cast film under 125℃ for 3 h is sufficient to obtain final microporous membrane with better properties.
Delamination failures of Stellite hardfacing in power plants: a microstructural characterisation study
Authors: Lolla T. , Siefert J. , Babu S. S. , Gandy D.
Published: May 2014

In recent years, several incidents of cracking and failures have been observed in Stellite (Stellite is a registered trademark of the Deloro-Stellite Corporation) hardfacing used in valves of modern high temperature combined cycle gas fired power plants. These hardfacing layers are applied as an overlay onto a steel substrate, such as CrMo steel (i.e. Grade 22, WC9) or creep strength enhanced ferritic steel (i.e. Grade 91, C12A). Cracking has been observed in valve components at the Stellite/steel interface and in the weld dilution zone formed between the steel and clad. Ultimately, disbonding or delamination of the weld hardfacing from the valve body occurs and has resulted in collateral damage to components in the plant (such as to the turbine) or valve failure. In this study, the microstructure formed near the Stellite/steel interface is investigated. Based on thermodynamic modelling, microstructure formed at these regions is hypothesised and a simple methodology is proposed to predict the occurrence of these failures.
Selection of ore from multiple pits
Authors: Everett J. E.
Published: May 2014

When ore is being selected from a regularised block model, a common procedure is to accept as ore any block whose iron content exceeds a cut-off value, and whose content in each contaminant analyte is below an appropriate cut-off value. This method defines a quadrant within the multidimensional analyte space, such that any block lying within the quadrant is accepted as ore and any block lying outside the quadrant is rejected as waste. The cut-off levels can be adjusted to maximise ore tonnage at a target grade (or analyte vector). When the method is applied to a project comprising multiple pits with systematically differing grades, it is found that ore tonnage at target grade is maximised if different cut-off quadrants are used for the different pits. This is apparently illogical, because it implies that an ore block from one pit may be accepted as ore, but an identical block from another pit rejected as waste, even when ore from both pits is to be blended into the same product and there are no production cost differences between the pits. The paradox is an example of the Theory of the Second Best: if there are multiple conditions for optimality and one condition is broken, then obeying the other conditions may not be the best policy. The problem lies with the quadrant cut-off method, which is shown to be inconsistent even for selecting ore from a single pit. A criterion that is inconsistent cannot be optimal. It is shown that a linear composite cut-off function provides maximum ore tonnage, and that a single composite cut-off criterion is consistent and optimal over multiple pits. Further, it is shown that a composite cut-off function not only maximises ore tonnage at a specified composition, but also can be used to select ore so as to maximise project value, if marginal costs and values are available.
Regional illitization in bentonite beds from the East Slovak Basin based on isotopic characteristics (K-Ar, δ18O and δD) of illite-type nanoparticles
Authors: Clauer N. , Honty M. , Fallick A. E. , Šucha V. , Aubert A.
Published: May 2014

Nanometre-sized illite-type crystals extracted from mixed-layer illite-smectite of cored bentonite beds from the East Slovak Basin were studied to investigate timing, duration and physical/chemical conditions of their nucleation and growth. The study includes application of the results to an evaluation of the regional extent of illitization. Close to salt-bearing formations, the nanometric particles underwent a more intense illitization, of identical duration, but with changing oxygen and hydrogen isotope characteristics of the parental brines.

A comparison of the stratigraphic ages of the bentonite beds with the K-Ar ages of the authigenic crystals shows that illitization started during the Middle-Miocene Serravalian (Lower Sarmatian) subsidence that lasted from 17 to 11.5 Ma. Duration of illitization was bracketed between 14.5 and 9.0 Ma, with further episodes until recently at 0 Ma, depending on the geographic location of the host beds. The calculated subsidence rate varies from less than 300 m/Ma to more than 500 m/Ma and the thermal gradient ranges from ~60°C/km to less than 50°C/km. The K-Ar ages of the nanometric illite point to either short-duration illitization when the onset was soon after sedimentation, or long-duration when the onset was significantly later after sedimentation. The illite δ18O varies little with increasing crystal size, whereas the δD changes significantly. In most samples the crystallization temperature determined by different criteria did not change significantly during crystal growth, but the oxygen and hydrogen isotopic compositions of the interacting fluids varied depending on sample location, immediate environment, timing and duration of illitization.

The stable isotope composition of illite in bentonite beds with reduced fluid-rock ratios gives insight into the fluid-temperature regime of sedimentary basins through identifying local processes rather than wide-scale ones. Illitization is episodic with variable duration along different crystallization pathways, and to various extents in low-porosity, low-permeability bentonite beds. Depending on local conditions, illitization may vary even within apparently homogeneous beds. This contrasts with the situation for porous aquifers having large-scale fluid connectivity.
Loss of SPARC protects hematopoietic stem cells from chemotherapy toxicity by accelerating their return to quiescence
Authors: Ehninger Armin , Boch Tobias , Medyouf Hind , Müdder Katja , Orend Gertraud , Trumpp Andreas
Published: May 2014

Key Points

Loss of SPARC protects HSCs from the toxic effects of serial 5-FU treatment. HSCs in a SPARC-deficient niche return faster to quiescence after activation following 5-FU treatment.
Paediatrics in Barcelona
Authors: Midulla Fabio , Lombardi Enrico , Rottier Bart , Lindblad Anders , Grigg Jonathan , Bohlin Kajsa , Rusconi Franca , Pohunek Petr , Eber Ernst
Published: May 2014

This update will describe the paediatric highlights from the 2013 European Respiratory Society (ERS) annual congress in Barcelona, Spain. Abstracts from the seven groups of the ERS Paediatric Assembly (Respiratory Physiology and Sleep, Asthma and Allergy, Cystic Fibrosis, Respiratory Infection and Immunology, Neonatology and Paediatric Intensive Care, Respiratory Epidemiology, and Bronchology) have been chosen by group officers and are presented in the context of current literature.
Upper airway factors that protect against obstructive sleep apnoea in healthy older males
Authors: Carlisle Thomas , Carthy Elliott R. , Glasser Martin , Drivas Peter , McMillan Alison , Cowie Martin R. , Simonds Anita K. , Morrell Mary J.
Published: May 2014

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) increases with age, yet the risk factors for OSA in older people remain poorly understood.

This study aimed to define the age-related changes in upper airway morphology in carefully matched groups of healthy older (>60 years, n=11) and younger (<40 years, n=14) males, using direct (magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) and indirect (acoustic reflection) imaging.

The median (interquartile range) combined retropalatal and retroglossal pharyngeal length was greater in older than in younger males (older 8.8 (7.8–9.0) cm, younger 7.8 (7.0–8.3) cm; p=0.03), as was the soft palate cross-sectional area (older 43.1 (36.0–48.8) cm2, younger 35.3 (30.5–40.5) cm2; p=0.03), parapharyngeal fat pad diameter (older 1.7 (1.4–2.2) cm, younger 1.2 (1.0–1.8) cm; p=0.03) and cross-sectional area of the fat pads (older 13.8 (9.1–17.1) cm2; younger 7.4 (5.9–13.0) cm2; p=0.02) as measured by MRI. Using acoustic reflection, pharyngeal calibre (older 4.8 (3.8–6.6) cm2, younger 3.4 (2.8–4.6) cm2; p=0.03), pharyngeal volume (older 35.1 (30.9–55.4) cm3, younger 27.2 (22.7–44.2) cm3; p=0.04) and glottis area (older 2.7 (2.1–3.9) cm2, younger 1.3 (1.1–1.9) cm2; p=0.003) were also larger in older participants compared with younger participants. There was no difference in craniofacial measures between groups, including volumetric data and hyoid bone position.

The larger pharyngeal calibre observed in older males may be compensating for an age-related enlargement in pharyngeal soft tissue that predisposes to OSA.
Nanofabrication on monocrystalline silicon through friction-induced selective etching of Si3N4 mask
Authors: Guo Jian , Yu Bingjun , Wang Xiaodong , Qian Linmao
Published: May 2014

A new fabrication method is proposed to produce nanostructures on monocrystalline silicon based on the friction-induced selective etching of its Si3N4 mask. With low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) Si3N4 film as etching mask on Si(100) surface, the fabrication can be realized by nanoscratching on the Si3N4 mask and post-etching in hydrofluoric acid (HF) and potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution in sequence. Scanning Auger nanoprobe analysis indicated that the HF solution could selectively etch the scratched Si3N4 mask and then provide the gap for post-etching of silicon substrate in KOH solution. Experimental results suggested that the fabrication depth increased with the increase of the scratching load or KOH etching period. Because of the excellent masking ability of the Si3N4 film, the maximum fabrication depth of nanostructure on silicon can reach several microns. Compared to the traditional friction-induced selective etching technique, the present method can fabricate structures with lesser damage and deeper depths. Since the proposed method has been demonstrated to be a less destructive and flexible way to fabricate a large-area texture structure, it will provide new opportunities for Si-based nanofabrication.
Positive blow-up solutions of nonlinear models from real world dynamics
Authors: Gschwindl Jürgen , Rachůnková Irena , Staněk Svatoslav , Weinmüller Ewa B
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we investigate the structure and properties of the set of positive blow-up solutions of the differential equation

(

t
k

v
′

(
t
)
)

′

=

t
k

h
(
t
,
v
(
t
)
)

,

t
∈
(
0
,
T
]
⊂
R

, where

k
∈
(
1
,
∞
)

. The differential equation is studied together with the boundary conditions

lim

t
→
0
+

v
(
t
)
=
∞

,

v
(
T
)
=
0

. We specify conditions for the data function h which guarantee that the set of all positive solutions to the above boundary value problem is nonempty. Further properties of the solutions are discussed and results of numerical simulations are presented.

MSC:34B18, 34B16, 34A12.
Estimation of acute oral toxicity in rat using local lazy learning
Authors: Lu Jing , Peng Jianlong , Wang Jinan , Shen Qiancheng , Bi Yi , Gong Likun , Zheng Mingyue , Luo Xiaomin , Zhu Weiliang , Jiang Hualiang , Chen Kaixian
Published: May 2014

Background

Acute toxicity means the ability of a substance to cause adverse effects within a short period following dosing or exposure, which is usually the first step in the toxicological investigations of unknown substances. The median lethal dose, LD50, is frequently used as a general indicator of a substance’s acute toxicity, and there is a high demand on developing non-animal-based prediction of LD50. Unfortunately, it is difficult to accurately predict compound LD50 using a single QSAR model, because the acute toxicity may involve complex mechanisms and multiple biochemical processes.

Results

In this study, we reported the use of local lazy learning (LLL) methods, which could capture subtle local structure-toxicity relationships around each query compound, to develop LD50 prediction models: (a) local lazy regression (LLR): a linear regression model built using k neighbors; (b) SA: the arithmetical mean of the activities of k nearest neighbors; (c) SR: the weighted mean of the activities of k nearest neighbors; (d) GP: the projection point of the compound on the line defined by its two nearest neighbors. We defined the applicability domain (AD) to decide to what an extent and under what circumstances the prediction is reliable. In the end, we developed a consensus model based on the predicted values of individual LLL models, yielding correlation coefficients R2 of 0.712 on a test set containing 2,896 compounds.

Conclusion

Encouraged by the promising results, we expect that our consensus LLL model of LD50 would become a useful tool for predicting acute toxicity. All models developed in this study are available via http://www.dddc.ac.cn/admetus.
Mapping intended spinal site of care from the upright to prone position: an interexaminer reliability study
Authors: Cooperstein Robert , Young Morgan
Published: May 2014

Background

Upright examination procedures like radiology, thermography, manual muscle testing, and spinal motion palpation may lead to spinal interventions with the patient prone. The reliability and accuracy of mapping upright examination findings to the prone position is unknown. This study had 2 primary goals: (1) investigate how erroneous spine-scapular landmark associations may lead to errors in treating and charting spine levels; and (2) study the interexaminer reliability of a novel method for mapping upright spinal sites to the prone position.

Methods

Experiment 1 was a thought experiment exploring the consequences of depending on the erroneous landmark association of the inferior scapular tip with the T7 spinous process upright and T6 spinous process prone (relatively recent studies suggest these levels are T8 and T9, respectively). This allowed deduction of targeting and charting errors. In experiment 2, 10 examiners (2 experienced, 8 novice) used an index finger to maintain contact with a mid-thoracic spinous process as each of 2 participants slowly moved from the upright to the prone position. Interexaminer reliability was assessed by computing Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, standard error of the mean, root mean squared error, and the absolute value of the mean difference for each examiner from the 10 examiner mean for each of the 2 participants.

Results

The thought experiment suggesting that using the (inaccurate) scapular tip landmark rule would result in a 3 level targeting and charting error when radiological findings are mapped to the prone position. Physical upright exam procedures like motion palpation would result in a 2 level targeting error for intervention, and a 3 level error for charting. The reliability experiment showed examiners accurately maintained contact with the same thoracic spinous process as the participant went from upright to prone, ICC (2,1) = 0.83.

Conclusions

As manual therapists, the authors have emphasized how targeting errors may impact upon manual care of the spine. Practitioners in other fields that need to accurately locate spinal levels, such as acupuncture and anesthesiology, would also be expected to draw important conclusions from these findings.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Comparing Conventional Versus Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Surgically Ineligible Stage I Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Mitera Gunita , Swaminath Anand , Rudoler David , Seereeram Colleen , Giuliani Meredith , Leighl Natasha , Gutierrez Eric , Dobrow Mark J. , Coyte Peter C. , Yung Terence , Bezjak Andrea , Hope Andrew J.
Published: May 2014

The authors show that based on a threshold of $50,000 per life-year gained, stereotactic body radiotherapy seems cost effective compared with conventionally fractionated radiotherapy.
Rural Oncology: Overcoming the Tyranny of Distance for Improved Cancer Care
Authors: George Mathew , Ngo Phuong , Prawira Amy
Published: May 2014

The authors give an overview of the rural oncology experience in the New England region of Australia and of the future direction of the oncology team in this region, including community-oriented projects focused on improving cancer care for area patients.
Using a Question Prompt List As a Communication Aid in Advanced Cancer Care
Authors: Yeh Jonathan C. , Cheng M. Jennifer , Chung Christine H. , Smith Thomas J.
Published: May 2014

A simple, one-page question prompt list addressing cancer treatment, prognosis, quality of life, and end-of-life issues was well received by new oncology patients and did not affect patient anxiety or physician workflow.
Getting From Choosing Wisely to Spending Wisely
Authors: Hoverman J. Russell
Published: May 2014

ASCO released its second set of five Choosing Wisely recommendations, and ASTRO has issued its first set of five. The next step for specialty societies is to translate these recommendations into process-improvement activities.
Population-Based Standardized Symptom Screening: Cancer Care Ontario's Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and Performance Status Initiatives
Authors: Pereira José , Green Esther , Molloy Sean , Dudgeon Deborah , Howell Doris , Krzyzanowska Monika K. , Mahase Wenonah , Tabing Reena , Urowitz Sara , Macdougall Laura
Published: May 2014

To improve symptom management, the Ontario Cancer Symptom Management Collaborative uses common assessment and care management tools including Interactive Symptom Assessment and Collection, which allows patients to report their symptoms via kiosks or tablets directly to clinicians in real-time.
Patient-Oncologist Cost Communication, Financial Distress, and Medication Adherence
Authors: Bestvina Christine M. , Zullig Leah L. , Rushing Christel , Chino Fumiko , Samsa Gregory P. , Altomare Ivy , Tulsky James , Ubel Peter , Schrag Deborah , Nicolla Jon , Abernethy Amy P. , Peppercorn Jeffrey , Zafar S. Yousuf
Published: May 2014

The authors conclude that patient-oncologist cost communication and financial distress were associated with medication nonadherence, suggesting that cost discussions are important for patients forced to make cost-related behavior alterations.
Evaluating the Effects of Inpatient Palliative Care Consultations on Subsequent Hospice Use and Place of Death in Patients With Advanced GI Cancers
Authors: Paris Julia , Morrison R. Sean
Published: May 2014

Palliative care consultation was associated with increased hospice use, decreased likelihood of dying in a hospital, and increased likelihood of dying at home.
Shared Decision Making for Treatment of Cancer: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Katz Steven J. , Belkora Jeffrey , Elwyn Glyn
Published: May 2014

Treatment recommendations are based on complicated clinical information that is revealed variably over time after initial diagnosis. Integrating this information into a treatment plan is challenging, as different specialists direct the various treatments.
The Material Etymologies of Cecilia Vicuña
Authors: Alvergue José Felipe
Published: May 2014

This article examines Chilean poet and artist Cecilia Vicuña’s aesthetic practices from the 1970s to today. The recent republication of Vicuña’s Saboramí by Chainlinks Press (2011) permits a new generation of readers to experience her paintings from the 1970s and to read Vicuña’s own explanations behind her ongoing sculpture work, the precarios. The paintings reveal an intersection of multiple philosophical and theoretical footholds; but more important, they show Vicuña the artist searching through concepts and practices to give form to the eruption of experiences that describe the West during the late twentieth century, particularly those that erupt from Salvador Allende’s brief presidency in Chile and the many confrontations between neoliberalism, indigenism, and political activism. Following the movement of visual representation to sculpture, I trace how Vicuña explores the concept of collectivization through aesthetic form and material extension during the 1980s and 1990s, in the precarios. I then map how Vicuña uses form to disclose the interplay of etymology and materiality in Palabrarmás (1992) and Instan (2002), giving plural voice to collectivized expression. The open-endedness of this interplay conducts our readerly attention to the way in which Vicuña stages critical and philosophical engagements with twentieth-century and pre-Columbian aesthetics to reveal a more complex sense of the “present” in the West. A more inclusive temporality, the present in Vicuña’s poetic lyric unlocks ways of building community from the various acts of expressing rights, self, and being.
Retirement Security in an Aging Population
Authors: Poterba James M.
Published: May 2014

Elderly individuals exhibit wide disparities in their sources of income. For those in the bottom half of the income distribution, Social Security is the most important source of support; program changes would directly affect their well-being. Income from private pensions, assets, and earnings are relatively more important for higher-income elderly individuals, who have more diverse income sources. The trend from private sector defined benefit to defined contribution pension plans has shifted responsibility for retirement security to individuals. A significant subset of the population is unlikely to be able to sustain their standard of living in retirement without higher pre-retirement saving.