bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Race does not predict the development of metastases in men with nonmetastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Whitney Colette A. , Howard Lauren E. , Amling Christopher L. , Aronson William J. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Kane Christopher J. , Terris Martha K. , Freedland Stephen J.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Although race is associated with prostate cancer progression in early stage disease, once men have advanced disease, it is unclear whether race continues to predict a poor outcome. The authors hypothesized that, in an equal‐access setting among patients with castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and no known metastases (M0/Mx), black men would receive imaging tests at similar rates as nonblack men (ie, there would be an equal opportunity to detect metastases) but would have a higher risk of metastatic disease.

METHODS

In total, 837 men who were diagnosed with M0/Mx CRPC during 2000 through 2014 from 5 Veterans Affairs hospitals in the SEARCH (Shared Equal Access Regional Cancer Hospital) database were analyzed. Data on all imaging tests after CRPC diagnosis were collected, including date, type, and outcome. Multivariable Cox models were used to test associations between race and the time to first metastasis, first bone metastasis, first bone scan, second bone scan among men who had a negative first bone scan, and overall survival.

RESULTS

Black men (n = 306) were equally as likely as nonblack men (n = 531) to receive a first and second bone scan after a diagnosis of CRPC. There were no significant differences in the risk of developing any metastases, bone metastases, time to bone scans, or overall survival between black men and nonblack men (all P > .2).

CONCLUSIONS

The lack of racial differences in the development of metastases and scanning practices observed in this study suggests that, once men have a diagnosis of M0/Mx CRPC, race may not be a prognostic factor. Efforts to understand prostate cancer racial disparities may derive greater benefit by focusing on the risk of developing prostate cancer and on the outcomes of men who have early stage disease. Cancer 2016;122:3848–3855. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Monodispersed CuCo Nanoparticles Supported on Diamine‐Functionalized Graphene as a Non‐noble Metal Catalyst for Hydrolytic Dehydrogenation of Ammonia Borane
Authors: Song Fu‐Zhan , Zhu Qi‐Long , Yang Xin‐Chun , Xu Qiang
Published: August 2016

Monodispersed non‐noble CuCo nanoparticles (diameter≤2.4 nm) have been immobilized on diamine‐functionalized reduced graphene oxide, which displays remarkably enhanced catalytic performance for the dehydrogenation of ammonia borane (AB) with a corresponding turnover frequency (TOF) as high as 51.5±3.7 molH2 molcat−1 min−1 at 303 K, compared to those on other supports such as reduced graphene oxide, Vulcan XC‐72R and polyvinypyrrolidone. The synergic effect between Cu and Co could efficiently improve the catalytic performance for the hydrolytic dehydrogenation of AB. In addition, it represents a new opportunity to support various non‐noble metal nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide, which has tremendous application prospect for various catalytic reactions.
Mechanism and Kinetics of Heterogeneous Reactions of Unsaturated Organic Acids on α‐Al2O3 and CaCO3
Authors: Wu Lingyan , Liu Qifan , Tong Shengrui , Jing Bo , Wang Weigang , Guo Yucong , Ge Maofa
Published: August 2016

Heterogeneous reactions have a vital role in the atmosphere due to their significant effects on the evolution of atmospheric aerosols, which in turn contribute to air pollution. However, the mechanism and kinetics of these processes involving unsaturated organic acids, important types of volatile organic compounds, are still unclear. In this work, the heterogeneous uptake of two representative atmospheric unsaturated organic acids (acrylic acid and methacrylic acid) on mineral aerosols including α‐Al2O3 and CaCO3 are investigated using a Knudsen cell reactor and an in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectrometry (DRIFTS) reactor. The corresponding reaction pathways are proposed from the DRIFTS analysis. In addition, the initial uptake coefficients of unsaturated organic acids and their heterogeneous fate are obtained for the first time. Our results suggest that heterogeneous reactions on α‐Al2O3 and CaCO3 can be important sinks for acrylic acid and methacrylic acid, as well as possible contributors to the organic coating found on atmospheric aerosols, especially in high‐pollution events.
Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation by a Tetranuclear Copper Complex
Authors: Praneeth Vijayendran K. K. , Kondo Mio , Woi Pei Meng , Okamura Masaya , Masaoka Shigeyuki
Published: August 2016

A novel tetranuclear copper‐based water oxidation catalyst was designed and synthesized by using a new multinucleating ligand containing two proton dissociation sites, 1,3‐bis(6‐hydroxy‐2‐pyridyl)‐1H‐pyrazole. The copper complex showed electrocatalytic activity for water oxidation reactions under aqueous basic conditions (pH 12.5) with an overpotential of approximately 500 mV. UV/Vis absorption and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopic techniques coupled with electrochemical analyses of the catalyst system strongly suggest that the tetranuclear copper complex works as a homogeneous system under the conditions used. The results described here demonstrate the utility of a discrete tetranuclear copper complex in water oxidation reactions.
Optimal and heuristic algorithms for all‐optical group multicast in resource‐constrained WDM networks
Authors: Yang Wen‐Lin , Yang Chun‐Tao , Huang Yu‐Chung
Published: August 2016

Given a sparse‐splitting wavelength‐division multiplexing network with no wavelength converter, we study a group multicast problem that is how to transmit a number of multicast streams from the video server to multiple destinations simultaneously. To avoid the situation that the wavelengths are used up by the first few requests, one wavelength is available for each multicast request. Hence, some of destinations may not be included in the multicast trees because of the lack of wavelengths. Our goal is to construct a number of light trees with conflict‐free wavelengths for multiple requests so that the number of served clients is maximized. This problem is named as the revenue‐maximized and delay‐constrained group multicast routing problem. We first determine a set of multicast trees with the maximum number of served clients, then followed by the wavelength assignment to allocate the minimum number of wavelengths to the resulting trees. In this study, we propose two Integer Linear Programming ILP‐based algorithms for determining the optimal solutions for the light‐tree construction problem and the wavelength assignment problem, respectively. For large‐scale networks, two heuristics are introduced to solve the light‐tree construction problem approximately. A set of simulations are also provided for comparing performances of our algorithms against the other published methods. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase I metabolism of the highly potent synthetic cannabinoid MDMB‐CHMICA and detection in human urine samples
Authors: Franz Florian , Angerer Verena , Moosmann Bjoern , Auwärter Volker
Published: August 2016

Among the recently emerged synthetic cannabinoids, MDMB‐CHMICA (methyl N‐{[1‐(cyclohexylmethyl)‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl]carbonyl}‐3‐methylvalinate) shows an extraordinarily high prevalence in intoxication cases, necessitating analytical methods capable of detecting drug uptake. In this study, the in vivo phase I metabolism of MDMB‐CHMICA was investigated using liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) and liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐Q ToF‐MS) techniques. The main metabolites are formed by hydrolysis of the methyl ester and oxidation of the cyclohexyl methyl side chain. One monohydroxylated metabolite, the ester hydrolysis product and two further hydroxylated metabolites of the ester hydrolysis product are suggested as suitable targets for a selective and sensitive detection in urine. All detected in vivo metabolites could be verified in vitro using a human liver microsome assay. Two of the postulated main metabolites were successfully included in a comprehensive LC‐ESI‐MS/MS screening method for synthetic cannabinoid metabolites. The screening of 5717 authentic urine samples resulted in 818 cases of confirmed MDMB‐CHMICA consumption (14%). Since the most common route of administration is smoking, smoke condensates were analyzed to identify relevant thermal degradation products. Pyrolytic cleavage of the methyl ester and amide bond led to degradation products which were also formed metabolically. This is particularly important in hair analysis, where detection of metabolites is commonly considered a proof of consumption. In addition, intrinsic activity of MDMB‐CHMICA at the CB1 receptor was determined applying a cAMP accumulation assay and showed that the compound is a potent full agonist. Based on the collected data, an enhanced interpretation of analytical findings in urine and hair is facilitated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Drosophila glob1 is required for the maintenance of cytoskeletal integrity during oogenesis
Authors: Yadav Renu , Sarkar Surajit
Published: August 2016

Background: Hemoglobins (Hbs) are evolutionarily conserved heme‐containing metallo‐proteins of the Globin protein family that harbour the characteristic “globin fold.” Hemoglobins have been functionally diversified during evolution and their usual property of oxygen transport is rather a recent adaptation. Drosophila genome possesses three globin genes (glob1, glob2, and glob3), and we have reported earlier that adequate expression of glob1 is required for various aspects of development, as well as to regulate the cellular level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The present study illustrates the explicit role of Drosophila globin1 in progression of oogenesis. Results: We demonstrate a dynamic expression pattern of glob1 in somatic and germ cell derivatives of developing egg chambers during various stages of oogenesis, which largely confines around the F‐actin‐rich cellular components. Reduced expression of glob1 leads to various types of abnormalities during oogenesis, which were primarily mediated by the inappropriately formed F‐actin‐based cytoskeleton. Our subsequent analysis in the somatic and germ line clones shows cell autonomous role of glob1 in the maintenance of the integrity of F‐actin‐based cytoskeleton components in the somatic and germ cell derivatives. Conclusions: Our study establishes a novel role of glob1 in maintenance of F‐actin‐based cytoskeleton during progression of oogenesis in Drosophila. Developmental Dynamics 245:1048–1065, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Reaction of Ferrocene and Propargylic Esters: Synthesis of Functionalized Ferrocene Derivatives
Authors: López Enol , Suárez Tatiana , Ballesteros Alfredo , López Luis A.
Published: August 2016

The reaction of propargylic esters with ferrocene in the presence of gold catalysts provided ferrocene derivatives containing a functionalized vinyl moiety. This ferrocene C–H bond functionalization proceeded with complete regio‐ and stereoselectivity. The reaction was proposed to proceed through electrophilic substitution, in which a vinylgold carbene intermediate arising from 1,2‐rearrangement of the starting propargylic ester would behave as the electrophilic counterpart.
Band Gaps and Photocurrent Responses of Bulk and Thin‐Film Coordination Polymers Based on 3,6‐Di(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)‐9H‐carbazole
Authors: Meng Jiang Ping , Gong Yun , Lin Jian Hua
Published: August 2016

From a new rigid N‐donor ligand, 3,6‐di(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)‐9H‐carbazole (L), two coordination polymers (CPs) formulated as CdL(L1)·3DMF (1; H2L1 = 4,4′‐carbonyldibenzoic acid, DMF = N,N‐dimethylformamide) and Cu2L2(SO4) (2) were synthesized solvothermally and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. CP 1 exhibits a two‐dimensional (2D) structure, and CP 2 shows one‐dimensional (1D) chains. The two CPs exhibit different quasireversible redox properties and possess very weak photoluminescence properties. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experimental results show that CP 1 has a wider band gap than that of CP 2. Notably, CP 2 produces a higher photocurrent density than that of CP 1 upon visible‐light illumination, which is also in agreement with their Nyquist plots and Mott–Schottky curves. Thin‐film CP 1 was obtained by physical exfoliation in methanol and shows more active electrochemical behavior and enhanced photoresponse relative to those of bulk CP 1.
Macrocyclization by Rhodium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Cyclotrimerization of L‐Shaped Diynes with Di‐tert‐butyl Acetylenedicarboxylate: Effect of Bent Linkers of Diynes
Authors: Nishigaki Shuhei , Miyauchi Yuta , Noguchi Keiichi , Ito Hideto , Itami Kenichiro , Shibata Yu , Tanaka Ken
Published: August 2016

The effects of bent linkers in diynes on the efficiency and selectivity of intermolecular macrocyclization by the rhodium‐catalyzed sequential cross‐cyclotrimerization of L‐shaped diynes and di‐tert‐butyl acetylenedicarboxylate was investigated. A bulky triethylsilyl‐protected cyclohexa‐1,4‐dienediol‐linked diyne reacted with di‐tert‐butyl acetylenedicarboxylate to give the corresponding 16‐membered macrocycle as well as the 12‐membered macrocycle. Aromatization of the thus‐obtained 12‐membered macrocycle through desilylation followed by reductive aromatization with SnCl2 and HCl afforded a [12]cycloparaphenylenehexacarboxylate. The use of a conformationally flexible methoxymethyl‐protected cyclohexanediol‐linked diyne increased the yield of the corresponding 16‐membered macrocycle, although oxidative aromatization leading to the corresponding cycloparaphenylenes was unsuccessful.
A General Chemoenzymatic Strategy for the Synthesis of Glycosphingolipids
Authors: Liu Yunpeng , Wen Liuqing , Li Lei , Gadi Madhusudhan Reddy , Guan Wanyi , Huang Kenneth , Xiao Zhongying , Wei Mohui , Ma Cheng , Zhang Qing , Yu Hai , Chen Xi , Wang Peng George , Fang Junqiang
Published: August 2016

A concise, prototypical, and stereoselective strategy for the synthesis of therapeutically and immunologically significant glycosphingolipids has been developed. This strategy provides a universal platform for glycosphingolipid synthesis by block coupling of enzymatically prepared free oligosaccharideglycans to lipids using glycosyl N‐phenyltrifluoroacetimidates as efficient activated intermediates. As demonstrated here, two different types of glycosphingolipids were obtained in excellent yields using the method.
Assessment of hydrological changes in a river basin as affected by climate change and water management practices, by using the cat model
Authors: Jang Cheol Hee , Kim Hyeon Jun , Ahn So Ra , Kim Seong Joon
Published: August 2016

This study describes the applicability of the Catchment hydrologic cycle Assessment Tool (CAT) for improving the water cycle in a river basin, and suggests appropriate water cycle improvement methods for adapting the impact of future climate change on river basin hydrology. For future assessment, the Gyeongan‐Cheon River Basin located in the north‐eastern part of South Korea was selected. To evaluate future water cycle improvement, the data from two general circulation models (GCMs), MIROC3.2 hires and HadCM3 with A1B and B1 scenarios, were adopted and downscaled by using the Long Ashton Research Station–Weather Generator (LARS‐WG) after bias correction with 30 year (baseline; 1970 ~ 2000) ground measurements. The future annual surface runoff, groundwater flow and evapotranspiration changed up to +49, −45 and +44% in the late twenty‐first‐century of MIROC3.2hires A1B scenario and up to +56, −44 and +47% in the late twenty‐first‐century of HadCM3 A1B scenario. Under the condition of water cycle improvement are included by facilities, the hydrological cycle was enhanced by increasing groundwater flow and evapotranspiration, and decreasing surface runoff. The future annual surface runoff, groundwater flow and evapotranspiration were improved by −38, +13 and +24% in the late twenty‐first century MIROC3.2hires A1B scenario, and by −38, +13 and +25% for the HadCM3 A1B scenario. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Helping the Helpers: Assisting Staff and Volunteer Workers Before, During, and After Disaster Relief Operations
Authors: Quevillon Randal P. , Gray Brandon L. , Erickson Sara E. , Gonzalez Elvira D. , Jacobs Gerard A.
Published: August 2016

Self‐care strategies and system supports employed in preparation for, during, and after disaster relief operations (DROs) are crucial to relief worker well‐being and the overall effectiveness of relief efforts. Relief organizations and management must structure DROs in a manner that promotes self‐care and workers must implement proper self‐care strategies. Proper self‐care before, during, and after a DRO can reduce negative reactions to stressful emergency work and promote growth, mastery, and self‐efficacy after the experience. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to discuss the importance of organizational supports and self‐care strategies in disaster relief settings. This article emphasizes the role of both individual and management participation and commitment to relief worker support and positive experience in DROs and provides suggestions for doing so. These suggestions are derived from the empirical and experiential literature and extensions from the theoretical background, and from our experience as managers in DROs.
A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON NATIONAL RESILIENCE: COMPONENTS AND DEMOGRAPHIC PREDICTORS
Authors: Eshel Yohanan , Kimhi Shaul
Published: August 2016

A new definition of national resilience (NR) is developed, based on strength to vulnerability ratio (perceived NR divided by sense of danger). Four resilience‐promoting variables predict components of this NR: gender, religiosity, political attitudes, and level of exposure to war. The study was conducted 4 months after the 2014 Israel‐Gaza war. The sample comprised a total of 510 Jewish Israeli civilians (age range 18–85 years): 251 live in southern Israel and were threatened by this war and 259 live in northern Israel and were not threatened by this war. Results showed that the 4 predictors indeed predicted components of NR. The explained variance of NR determined by the strength to vulnerability ratio was higher than the explained variance of a conventional measure of this resilience. No significant differences were found in NR between the 2 samples. The advantages of the new definition of NR are discussed.
THE EFFECT OF CULTURAL FACTORS ON DAILY COPING AND INVOLUNTARY RESPONSES TO STRESS AMONG LOW‐INCOME LATINO ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Santiago Catherine DeCarlo , Torres Stephanie A. , Brewer Stephanie K. , Fuller Anne K. , Lennon Jaclyn M.
Published: August 2016

This study used daily diary methodology to examine associations between cultural factors and daily coping and responses to stress among predominantly low‐income Latino adolescents. A total of 58 middle school students (53% male, mean age = 13.31, 95% Latino) completed baseline measures assessing demographic characteristics, familism, ethnic identity, and family ethnic socialization. They subsequently completed 7 consecutive daily diaries assessing daily stress, coping, and involuntary stress responses. Results yielded main effects of stress, gender, familism, and ethnic identity on adolescents’ coping and involuntary stress responses. In addition, interactions between stress and familism, ethnic identity, and family ethnic socialization emerged. Results suggest that familism may promote adaptive responses to stress, while adolescents who report more family ethnic socialization may rely more on maladaptive responses at high levels of stress. Findings related to ethnic identity were mixed and varied depending on levels of ethnic identity exploration versus commitment.
THE ROLE OF PERCEIVED PEER SUBSTANCE USE IN THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN COMMUNITY VIOLENCE AND LIFETIME SUBSTANCE USE AMONG LATINO ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Poquiz Jonathan L. , Fite Paula J.
Published: August 2016

Research examining factors that account for the link between community violence exposure (CVE) and lifetime substance use is limited. Peer substance use warrants attention because of the influential role of peers in developing youth. Given the growing population of Latino youth in the United States and their risk for CVE and substance use, examining factors that account for this link in Latino youth is essential in developing culturally sensitive interventions. The current study examined whether peer substance use accounted for the link between CVE and lifetime substance use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana among 144 Latino adolescents (54% male, aged 14–19 years). Results indicated that perceived peer use accounted for the link between CVE and alcohol and tobacco use and partially accounted for the link between CVE and marijuana use. Interventions targeting peer relations may aid in preventing substance use in Latino adolescents residing in neighborhoods with high levels of CVE.
Dedicator of Cytokinesis 2 in Cell Signaling Regulation and Disease Development
Authors: Guo Xia , Chen Shi‐You
Published: August 2016

Dedicator of cytokinesis 2 (DOCK2) is a CDM family protein containing DOCK homology region (DHR)‐1 and DHR‐2, Src‐homology 3 (SH3) domain, and C‐terminal polybasic amino acid cluster. The CDM family consists of 11 mammalian members and is classified into four subfamilies, the DOCK‐A, ‐B, ‐C, and ‐D. DOCK2 is a member of DOCK‐A subfamily and an atypical guanine exchange factor regulating the loading of GTP to activate Rac. It is primarily found in peripheral blood, spleen, and thymus and mainly expressed in lymphocytes and macrophages of various organs. DOCK2 is also expressed in microglial in brain and is induced in neointima smooth muscle following vascular injury. Functionally, DOCK2 is involved in cell motility, polarity, adhesion, proliferation, and apoptosis. It is essential for lymphocyte migration and activation as well as neutrophil chemotaxis. DOCK2 also regulates the differentiation of natural killer T cells, type 2 T helper cells, and plasmacytoid dendritic cells. In addition, it is important for the growth of B cell lymphoma and prostate cancer cells. Deletion of DOCK2 enables long‐term cardiac allograft survival. Moreover, DOCK2 is associated with the Alzheimer Disease, HIV development, and the early‐onset of invasive infections. Recently, we found that DOCK2 plays a critical role in SMC phenotypic modulation and vascular remodeling. In this review, we will briefly summarize recent advancement of DOCK2 function. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 1931–1940, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Left and right ventricular kinetic energy using time‐resolved versus time‐average ventricular volumes
Authors: Hussaini Syed F. , Rutkowski David R. , Roldán‐Alzate Alejandro , François Christopher J.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To measure the effects of using time‐resolved (TR) versus time‐averaged (TA) ventricular segmentation on four‐dimensional flow‐sensitive (4D flow) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) kinetic energy (KE) calculations.

Materials and Methods

Right (RV) and left (LV) ventricular KE was calculated from 4D flow MRI data acquired at 3.0T in 10 healthy volunteers and five subjects with cardiac disease using TR and TA segmentation. KE was calculated from the mass of blood within the ventricles multiplied by the velocities squared. Differences in TR and TA KE and interobserver variability were quantified with Bland–Altman analysis.

Results

In healthy volunteers, peak systolic RV KE (KERV) were 4.89 ± 1.49 mJ using TR and 5.53 ± 1.62 mJ using TA segmentation (P = 0.016); peak systolic LV KE (KELV) were 3.29 ± 0.96 mJ and 4.16 ± 1.26 mJ (P = 0.005). Peak diastolic KERV were 3.33 ± 0.90 mJ (TR) and 3.61 ± 1.12 mJ (TA) (P = 0.082), while peak diastolic KELV were 4.90 ± 1.49 mJ and 5.31 ± 1.59 mJ (P = 0.044). In patient volunteers, peak systolic KERV were 4.34 ± 3.78 mJ using TR and 4.88 ± 3.98 mJ using TA segmentation (P = 0.26); peak systolic KELV were 4.39 ± 4.21 mJ and 4.36 ± 3.84 mJ (P = 0.91). Peak diastolic KERV were 3.34 ± 2.08 mJ (TR) and 4.05 ± 1.12 mJ (TA) (P = 0.08), while peak diastolic KELV were 4.34 ± 5.11 mJ and 4.06 ± 3.47 mJ (P = 0.75). Interobserver differences in KELV were greater for TR than TA calculations; bias ranged from 3 ± 30% for TA peak systolic KELV to 36 ± 30% for TR peak diastolic KELV.

Conclusion

Although qualitatively similar, KE values calculated through TA segmentation were consistently greater than TR KE, with differences more pronounced during systole and in the LV.

Level of Evidence: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:821–828.
A virtually 1H‐free birdcage coil for zero echo time MRI without background signal
Authors: Weiger Markus , Brunner David O. , Schmid Thomas , Froidevaux Romain , Rösler Manuela B. , Gross Simon , Pruessmann Klaas P.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

MRI of tissues with rapid transverse relaxation can be performed efficiently using the zero echo time (ZTE) technique. At high bandwidths leading to large relative initial radiofrequency (RF) dead times, the method becomes increasingly sensitive to artifacts related to signal stemming from outside the field of view, particularly from the RF coils. Therefore, in this work, a birdcage coil was designed that is virtually free of 1H signal.

Methods

A transmit‐receive birdcage RF coil for MRI of joints at 7T was designed by rigorously avoiding materials containing 1H nuclei, by using purely mechanical connections without glue, and by spoiling of unwanted signal by application of ferromagnetic materials. The coil was tested for residual 1H signal using ZTE phantom and in vivo joint imaging.

Results

In standard ZTE imaging, no 1H signal was detected above noise level. Only at extreme averaging, residual signal was observed close to conductors associated with 1H‐containing molecules at adjacent glass surfaces. Phantom images with dead times up to 3.8 Nyquist dwells were obtained with only negligible background artifacts. Furthermore, high‐quality ZTE images of human joints were acquired.

Conclusion

A virtually 1H‐free birdcage coil is presented, thus enabling in vivo ZTE MRI practically free of background signal, even at high bandwidths. Magn Reson Med 78:399–407, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Fiber quantity analysis of cementitious composite using multifocus imagery
Authors: Akcay Ozgun , Pekmezci Bekir Yılmaz , Seker Dursun Zafer , Tuncel Erman Yigit , Atahan Hakan Nuri
Published: August 2016

After static and impact loading tests applied to PVA fiber reinforced cementitious composites, depending on the loading type and mixture properties of the composite, different fiber failure types are observed at the fractured surface of test samples. It is very hard to determine the pulled out fiber amount with conventional methods. The purpose of this study is to display these differences in a quantitative way using digital imaging processing techniques and exhibit the relation between absorbed energy and pulled out fiber area. Digital image processing might provide useful techniques to determine structure of the cracked surface of samples. Since close‐up images of the failure surfaces of test samples are needed to examine thin and short fibers, from the point view of science of measurement and modeling from stereo images, digital photogrammetry does not produce prospective results appropriately. In this work, in order to reveal fibers, two complementary image‐processing techniques were used successively. First, images, which obtained from macro photographic lenses at different focal lengths, were combined with multifocus imaging. Second, processed multifocused image is automatically clustered in order to extract fibers with maximum likelihood classification algorithm. Consequently, state of side‐views of the fractured surfaces of composites is drawn precisely. The amount of pulled out fibers were estimated by using the area calculated. The relation between the absorbed energy and pulled fiber area was obtained. With increase of absorbed fracture energy, pulled out fiber amount for both static and dynamic tests increases. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2126–2134, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Study of the electroconductive properties of conductive polymers‐graphene/graphene oxide nanocomposites synthesized via in situ emulsion polymerization
Authors: Imran Syed Muhammad , Salman Ali , Shao Godlisten N , Haider M Salman , Abbas Nadir , Park SungSoo , Hussain Manwar , Kim Hee Taik
Published: August 2016

The present study introduces a modified approach to synthesize polyaniline (PANI) and polypyrrole (PPy) doped with graphene oxide (GO) or graphene (GN) through an in situ emulsion polymerization (EP) technique. Dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid (DBSA) was used as a surfactant and doping agent as well during the polymerization reaction. The morphology and microstructure of the synthesized polymers and their nanocomposites were studied by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. All of these characterization techniques confirmed the superior morphology and thermal properties of the nanocomposites. The electroconductive properties of the synthesized polymers and their nanocomposite pellets containing 5 wt% of either GN or GO pressed at pressures of 2, 4, and 6 tons were investigated with a four‐probe analyzer. Nanocomposites showed very high electrical conductivity compared to individual PANI and PPy samples pressed at the same pressures. The addition of GO and GN not only improved the thermal stability but also significantly enhanced the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites. Thus, the present work signifies the importance of the direct loading of GO and GN into conductive polymers during the EP process using DBSA as a surfactant to achieve nanocomposites with promising properties for various semiconductive applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2142–2150, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Misdiagnosis of asthma in schoolchildren
Authors: Yang C.L. , Simons E. , Foty R.G. , Subbarao P. , To T. , Dell S.D.
Published: August 2016

Background: A correct diagnosis of asthma is the cornerstone of asthma management. Few pediatric studies have examined the accuracy of physician‐diagnosed asthma. Objectives: We determined the accuracy of parent reported physician‐diagnosed asthma in children sampled from a community cohort. Methods: Nested case‐control study that recruited 203 children, aged 9–12, from a community‐based sample. Three groups were recruited: asthma cases had a parental report of physician‐diagnosed asthma, symptomatic controls had respiratory symptoms without a diagnosis of asthma, and asymptomatic controls had no respiratory symptoms. All participants were assessed and assigned a clinical diagnosis by one of three study physicians, and then completed spirometry, methacholine challenge, and allergy skin testing. The reference standard of asthma required a study physician's clinical diagnosis of asthma and either reversible bronchoconstriction or a positive methacholine challenge. Diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were calculated for parent‐reported asthma diagnosis compared to the reference standard. Results: One hundred two asthma cases, 52 controls with respiratory symptoms but no asthma diagnosis, and 49 asymptomatic controls were assessed. Physician agreement for the diagnosis of asthma was moderate (kappa 0.46–0.81). Compared to the reference standard, 45% of asthma cases were overdiagnosed and 10% of symptomatic controls were underdiagnosed. Parental report of physician‐diagnosed asthma had 75% sensitivity and 92% specificity for correctly identifying asthma. Conclusions: There is significant misclassification of childhood asthma when the diagnosis relies solely on a clinical history. This study highlights the importance of objective testing to confirm the diagnosis of asthma. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:293–302. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Charged oxygen interstitials in corundum: first principles simulations
Authors: Platonenko Alexander , Gryaznov Denis , Piskunov Sergei , Zhukovskii Yuri F. , Kotomin Eugene A.
Published: August 2016

Combining supercell models and hybrid B3PW exchange‐correlation functionals, ab initio simulations on quasi‐stable configurations of interstitial $O_i^-$ ions in α‐Al2O3 (corundum) crystals and possible migration trajectories have been modelled. We have studied crystalline distortion around migrating $O_i^-$ including interatomic distances and the effective atomic charges, as well as redistributions of the electronic density. Unlike neutral interstitial atom Oi studied by us previously, migrating $O_i^-$ ion does not form dumbbells with the nearest regular $O_{reg}^{q -}$ oxygen ions, due to the strong Coulomb interaction with the nearest $Al_{reg}^{q+}$ cations as well as stronger repulsion between $O_i^-$ and adjacent regular $O_{reg}^{q -}$ ions. We have also estimated the energy barrier for migration between the nearest quasistable configurations of interstitial $O_i^-$ ion. One of these configurations is an octahedron formed by six nearest $O_{reg}^{q -} $ anions in the centre of which $O_i^-$ ion is located, unlike a neutral Oi atom which prefers to migrate directly towards one of adjacent $O_{reg}^{q -} $ anions with the dumbbell formation. As the result, the barrier for $O_i^-$ ion migration in corundum has been found to be by ∼70% smaller than that of Oi atom. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Open‐shell systems investigated with Monte Carlo configuration interaction
Authors: Coe J. P. , Paterson M. J.
Published: August 2016

We investigate the open‐shell systems of the methyl radical, the allyl radical and molecular oxygen using Monte Carlo configuration interaction. We look at whether modifying Monte Carlo configuration interaction to use the increased flexibility of unrestricted Hartree‐Fock orbitals offers any benefits in the description of these systems by the resulting compact wavefunctions. The expectation of the total spin squared when using Slater determinants is calculated to investigate if pure spin states can be evolved by Monte Carlo configuration interaction and how this might be accelerated. We consider the multireference character of these open‐shell systems. To this end we demonstrate how a previously introduced way [J. P. Coe and M. J. Paterson, J. Chem. Theory Comput. 11, 4189 (2015)] of viewing a multireference indicator of P.‐O. Löwdin [P.‐O. Löwdin, Phys. Rev. 97, 1474 (1955)] in terms of the spatial entanglement can be generalized to open‐shell systems.
Refining autonomous agents with declarative beliefs and desires
Authors: Li Qin , Smith Graeme
Published: August 2016

An autonomous agent is one that is not only directed by its environment, but is also driven by internal motivation to achieve certain goals based on beliefs about the environmental behaviour. Design paradigms for autonomous agents such as belief-desire-intention take into account the agent’s “mental” features when presenting its patterns of behaviour. In this paper we present an approach to modelling autonomous agents by introducing mental features to conventional transition system specifications. Mental features such as belief and desire are represented by declarative linear temporal logic formulas. Refinement is then proposed to define the correctness of the agent design and development. It turns out, however, that the introduction of these mental features is not monotonic with respect to refinement. We therefore introduce additional refinement proof obligations to enable the use of simulation rules when checking refinement.
Retrospective Descriptive Study of an Intensive Care Unit at a Ugandan Regional Referral Hospital
Authors: Ttendo Stephen S. , Was Adam , Preston Mark A. , Munyarugero Emmanuel , Kerry Vanessa B. , Firth Paul G.
Published: August 2016

Background

We describe delivery and outcomes of critical care at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, a Ugandan secondary referral hospital serving a large, widely dispersed rural population.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of ICU admissions was performed from January 2008 to December 2011.

Results

Of 431 admissions, 239 (55.4 %) were female, and 142 (33.2 %) were children (<18 years). The median length of stay was 2 (IQR 1–4) days, with 365 patients (85 %) staying less than 8 days. Indications for admission were surgical 49.3 % (n = 213), medical/pediatric 27.4 % (n = 118), or obstetrical/gynecological 22.3 % (n = 96). The overall mortality rate was 37.6 % (162/431) [adults 39.3 % (n = 113/287), children 33.5 % (n = 48/143), unspecified age 100 % (n = 1/1)]. Of the 162 deaths, 76 (46.9 %) occurred on the first, 20 (12.3 %) on the second, 23 (14.2 %) on the third, and 43 (26.5 %) on a subsequent day of admission. Mortality rates for common diagnoses were surgical abdomen 31.9 % (n = 29/91), trauma 45.5 % (n = 30/66), head trauma 59.6 % (n = 28/47), and poisoning 28.6 % (n = 10/35). The rate of mechanical ventilation was 49.7 % (n = 214/431). The mortality rate of ventilated patients was 73.5 % (n = 119/224). The multivariate odd ratio estimates of mortality were significant for ventilation [aOR 6.15 (95 % CI 3.83–9.87), p < 0.0001] and for length of stay beyond seven days [aOR 0.37 (95 % CI 0.19–0.70), p = 0.0021], but not significant for decade of age [aOR 1.06 (95 % CI 0.94–1.20), p = 0.33], gender [aOR 0.61(95 % CI 0.38–0.99), p = 0.07], or diagnosis type [medical vs. surgical aOR 1.08 (95 % CI 0. 63–1.84), medical vs. obstetric/gynecology aOR 0.73 (95 % CI 0.37–1.43), p = 0.49].

Conclusions

The ICU predominantly functions as an acute care unit for critically ill young patients, with most deaths occurring within the first 48 h of admission. Expansion of critical care capacity in low‐income countries should be accompanied by measurement of the nature and impact of this intervention.
Distribution and Geochemistry of Selected Trace Elements in the Lignites of Cambay Basin, Gujarat, Western India
Authors: Singh P. K. , Singh Vijay Kumar , Rajak Pramod Kumar , Singh M. P. , Naik A. S.
Published: August 2016

In the present investigation all the working lignite seams of Cambay basin of Gujarat have been studied to see the distribution and geochemistry of selected major/minor elements like Fe, Ca, Na, K, Mg, and Mn and trace elements like Cu, Co, Cr, Cd, Ni, Pb and Zn. The vertical variation of these elements along the seam profiles has been studied to see the pattern of distribution of these elements and also to know the horizons of their enrichment and the probable cause. Further, these elements have been correlated among themselves and also with organic and inorganic matter of lignite. The correlation study indicates that in Tadkeshwar upper seam Fe has its affinity with huminite while Mg and Na have their affinity with liptinite and in Tadkeshwar lower seam Na has an affinity with liptinite. In Vastan upper seam Mn and Cu are associated with inertinite and Na with huminite while in Vastan lower seam Cu relates to huminite and Cd to liptinite and huminite. In Rajpardi seam Ca and Co are associated with huminite. The study provides information on the mode of occurrence of elements of less studied lignites of western India.
Socioeconomic Status and Religious Beliefs among U.S. Latinos: Evidence from the 2006 Hispanic Religion Survey
Authors: Jung Jong Hyun , Schieman Scott , Ellison Christopher G.
Published: August 2016

This study examines how socioeconomic status is related to beliefs about the prosperity gospel and miracles among U.S. Latinos. Further, it investigates how religious involvement moderates this relationship. In analyses of data from the 2006 Hispanic Religion Survey (N = 3143), we find that higher levels of education and income are independently associated with lower likelihood of endorsing the prosperity gospel. However, the negative association between education and the likelihood of holding prosperity gospel beliefs is weaker among those Latinos who read scriptures frequently. In addition, although neither education nor income is directly related to miracle beliefs, their influence does depend on the frequency of scripture reading. For example, income is positively associated with the odds of endorsing miracle beliefs only among Latinos who regularly read scripture; by contrast, income is negatively associated with those same odds when scripture reading is infrequent. We discuss the implications of these findings for theories about the ways that different dimensions of social stratification are related to religious beliefs.
Effect of surface topography with different groove angles on tribological behavior of the wheel/rail contact using alternative machine
Authors: Khalladi A. , Elleuch K.
Published: August 2016

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of the surface topography on the tribological behavior of the wheel/rail contact. Four different groove orientations forming the surface topographies—smooth surface, 0°, 45° and 90°—were manufactured by grinding and compared. All friction tests with different surface topographies were conducted using an alternative tribometer simulating the pure sliding process in the wheel-rail contact. The Hertzian pressure was maintained at 1,000 MPa with two levels of sliding velocity (20 mm/s and 80 mm/s). This study resulted in five main findings.

First, the initial surface topographies seemed to have a significant effect on the friction coefficient independently of the speed. Second, the increase of the sliding velocity would decrease the friction coefficient. Third, especially when accompanied with a high sliding velocity, an initial rough surface would have a significant effect on the wear of the wheel. Fourth, the highest wear values were observed at groove orientations of 45° when accompanied with a high sliding velocity. Finally, the break-in duration seemed to depend on the initial surface topographies of the rail and the sliding velocity.
Identification of a Kulshan caldera correlative tephra in the Palouse loess of Washington State, northwest USA
Authors: King Georgina E. , Pearce Nicholas J.G. , Roberts Helen M. , Smith Victoria C. , Westgate John A. , Gaylord David R. , Sweeney Mark R.
Published: August 2016

The Kulshan caldera formed at ∼1.15 Ma on the present-day site of Mt. Baker, Washington State, northwest USA and erupted a compositionally zoned (dacite-rhyolite) magma and a correlative eruptive, the Lake Tapps tephra. This tephra has previously been described, but only from the Puget Lowland of NW Washington. Here an occurrence of a Kulshan caldera correlative tephra is described from the Quaternary Palouse loess at the Washtucna site (WA-3). Site WA-3 is located in east-central Washington, ∼340 km southeast of the Kulshan caldera and ∼300 km east-southeast of the Lake Tapps occurrence in the Puget Lowland. Major- and trace element chemistry and location of the deposit at Washtucna within reversed polarity sediments indicates that it is not correlative with the Mesa Falls, Rockland, Bishop Ash, Lava Creek B or Huckleberry Ridge tephras. Instead the Washtucna deposit is related to the Lake Tapps tephra by fractional crystallisation, but is chemically distinct, a consequence of its eruption from a compositionally zoned magma chamber. The correlation of the Washtucna occurrence to the Kulshan caldera-forming eruption indicates that it had an eruptive volume exceeding 100 km3, and that its tephra could provide a valuable early-Pleistocene chronostratigraphic marker in the Pacific Northwest.
Infant Strangulation from an Amber Teething Necklace
Authors: Cox Catherine , Petrie Neil , Hurley Katrina F.
Published: August 2016

Amber teething necklaces supposedly provide analgesia for teething infants. Their use is becoming more widespread, despite lack of peer-reviewed evidence and warnings from Health Canada that they pose a strangulation and aspiration risk. To date, there have been no published reports of strangulation secondary to amber teething necklaces. In this report we present a case of non-fatal infant strangulation from the first time use of an amber teething necklace. We will also discuss the role of physicians as advocates in reporting similar cases and educating families. Finally, we will comment on the responsibility of all professionals and professional organizations that work with infants and toddlers to advocate for children by raising concerns and counselling parents.
Surgical Site Infections Following Birmingham Hip Resurfacing
Authors: Bhargava Ashish , Salim Madiha , Banavasi Harsha V. , Neelam Vijay , Wenzel Richmund , Sims Kristin L. , Dhar Sorabh , Kaye Keith S.
Published: August 2016

The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing procedure (BHR) is metal-on-metal resurfacing procedure for hip arthritis. BHR was associated with low risk of surgical site infection (SSI; 0.6%). In addition to antimicrobials, superficial SSIs were treated with incision and drainage, whereas deep incisional or organ-space SSIs required removal of prosthesis.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016;1–4
A PROCESS OF PRIORITIZING TOPICS FOR HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT IN KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Kosherbayeva Lyazzat , Hailey David , Kurakbaev Kural , Tabarov Adlet , Kumar Ainur , Gutzskaya Gulnara , Stepkina Elena
Published: August 2016

Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop criteria for the prioritization of topics for health technology assessment (HTA) in the healthcare system of Kazakhstan.

Methods: Initial proposals for criteria were suggested through consultation with Ministry of Health (MoH) policy areas. These were refined through a workshop attended by HTA department staff, persons from medical universities and research institutes, and MoH policy makers. The workshop included discussion on methods used in international HTA practice. Opinions of participants on selection of criteria from those specified in a review of prioritization processes were used to define a list for inclusion in an instrument for routine use. A scoring system was established in later discussion.

Results: Selected criteria for HTA prioritization were burden of disease, availability of alternative technology, clinical effectiveness, economic efficiency, budget impact, and ethical, legal, and/or psychosocial aspects. For each criterion, a health technology under consideration is given a score from 3 (High) to 1 (Low). The total score determines whether the technology is of high to medium priority or of low priority. Determination of priorities for assessment, using the instrument, should be carried out by an expert group appointed by the MoH. The process was applied in 2014 to a selection of topics, and three health technologies were chosen for full assessments.

Conclusions: Criteria for prioritization have evolved with development of the HTA program in Kazakhstan. A method for HTA prioritization has been developed that is easy to apply, requires comparatively few resources, and is compatible with processes required by the MoH.
The relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms among older gay men: the moderating role of sense of belonging with gay friends
Authors: McLaren Suzanne
Published: August 2016

Background:

Living alone is a risk factor for depressive symptoms among older adults, although it is unclear if it is a risk factor for older gay men. A sense of belonging to the gay community is protective and might compensate for living alone. This research investigated whether a sense of belonging with gay friends weakened the relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms among older gay men.

Methods:

A community sample of 160 Australian gay men aged 65–92 years completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and two visual analogue scales assessing a sense of belonging with gay friends.

Results:

Results supported the moderation model, with increasing levels of belonging with gay friends weakening the relationship between living alone and depressive symptoms.

Conclusion:

Results imply that enhancing a sense of belonging with gay friends among older gay men who live alone is likely to be a protective factor in relation to depressive symptoms.