bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of fluorescent dye on physical–mechanical properties of luting cements for confocal microscopy analysis
Authors: Oliveira Dayane , Prieto Lúcia , Araújo Cíntia , Coppini Erick , Pereira Gisele , Paulillo Luís
Published: August 2014

Aims: To evaluate the influence of a fluorescent dye (rhodamine B) on the physical and mechanical properties of three different luting cements: a conventional adhesive luting cement (RelyX ARC, 3M/ESPE), a self‐adhesive luting cement (RelyX U‐200, 3M/ESPE), and a self‐etching and self‐adhesive luting cement (SeT PP, SDI). Materials and Methods: The cements were mixed with 0.03 wt% rhodamine B, formed into bar‐shaped specimens (n = 10), and light cured using an LED curing unit (Radii, SDI) with a radiant exposure of 32 J/cm2. The Knoop hardness (KHN), flexural strength (FS), and Young's modulus (YM) analyses were evaluated after storage for 24 h. Results: Outcomes were subjected to two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test (P = 0.05) for multiple comparisons. No significant differences in FS or YM were observed among the tested groups (P ≥ 0.05); the addition of rhodamine B increased the hardness of the luting cements tested. Conclusion: The addition of a fluorescent agent at 0.03 wt% concentration does not negatively affect the physical–mechanical properties of the luting cement polymerization behavior. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:986–988, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accuracy of semiquantitative dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI for differentiating type II from type I endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Fukunaga Takeru , Fujii Shinya , Inoue Chie , Kato Ayumi , Chikumi Jun , Kaminou Toshio , Ogawa Toshihide
Published: August 2014

Purpose

To investigate type II endometrial carcinoma characterization using dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) and evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of semiquantitative DCE‐MRI in differentiating type II from type I tumors.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐seven patients with endometrial carcinoma were retrospectively evaluated using 3T DCE‐MRI. The maximum absolute enhancement of signal intensity (SImax), maximum relative enhancement (SIrel), wash‐in rate (WIR), and the SImax/SI (piriformis) ratio were analyzed. To differentiate type I from type II tumors, optimal threshold criteria were established. The Mann–Whitney U‐test was used for statistical comparison and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine optimal cutoff values.

Results

The SIrel (P < 0.001), WIR (P < 0.0001), and SImax/SI (piriformis) ratio (P < 0.0001), but not SImax, differed significantly between type I and type II carcinomas. Cutoff values of SIrel ≥58.8, WIR ≥37.0, and SImax/SI (piriformis) ratio ≥1.55 had sensitivities of 93%, 93%, and 67%, specificities of 60%, 60%, and 79%, accuracies of 66%, 66%, and 67%, respectively, for predicting type II endometrial carcinoma.

Conclusion

Endometrial carcinoma with strong (high level) enhancement on DCE‐MRI is suggestive of type II endometrial carcinoma. Semiquantitative evaluation of DCE‐MRI may be useful for differentiating type II from type I tumors. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:1662–1668. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Changes in soil carbon and crop yield over 60 years in the Zurich Organic Fertilization Experiment, following land‐use change from grassland to cropland
Authors: Oberholzer Hans Rudolf , Leifeld Jens , Mayer Jochen
Published: August 2014

Changes in land‐use and agricultural management affect soil organic C (SOC) storage and soil fertility. Grassland to cropland conversion is often accompanied by SOC losses. However, fertilization, crop rotation, and crop residue management can offset some SOC losses or even convert arable soils into C sinks. This paper presents the first assessment of changes in SOC stocks and crop yields in a 60‐year field trial, the Zurich Organic Fertilization Experiment A493 (ZOFE) in Switzerland. The experiment comprises 12 treatments with different organic, inorganic and combined fertilization regimes. Since conversion to arable land use in 1949, all treatments have lost SOC at annual rates of 0.10–0.25 t C ha−1, with estimated mean annual C inputs from organic fertilizers and aboveground and belowground plant residues of 0.6–2.4 t C ha−1. In all treatments, SOC losses are still in progress, indicating that a new equilibrium has not yet been reached. Crop yields have responded sensitively to advances in plant breeding and in fertilization. However, in ZOFE high yields can only be ensured when mineral fertilizer is applied at rates typical for modern agriculture, with yields of main crops (winter wheat, maize, potatoes, clover‐grass ley) decreasing by 25–50% when manure without additional mineral fertilizer is applied. ZOFE shows that land‐use change from non‐intensively managed grassland to cropland leads to soil C losses of 15–40%, even in rotations including legumes and intercrops, improved agricultural management and organic fertilizer application.
Value and Servitization: Creating Complex Deployed Responsive Services
Authors: Parry Glenn , Tasker Paul
Published: August 2014

A value framework can be used to describe the servitization transformation from traditional manufacturing business model to the current endpoint of a complex deployed responsive service delivered within the customer's dynamic environment, where the ability to capture worth is determined by the success of the customer.
Firm Profitability During the Servitization Process in the Music Industry
Authors: Myrthianos Vasileios , Vendrell‐Herrero Ferran , Parry Glenn , Bustinza Oscar F.
Published: August 2014

Music industry revenues are highly correlated with firm profitability, which on average is below the risk‐free bank interest rate after the digital disruption.
Servitization in Project‐Based Firms
Authors: Galera‐Zarco Carlos , Morales‐Gallego Matilde , Pérez‐Aróstegui M. Nieves
Published: August 2014

Project‐based firms are transforming their business models in order to add services to their offers, with the consequence that their business projects are beginning to be conceived as long processes in which servitization takes place.
The Role of CRM‐SRM Bolt‐ons in Enterprise Resource Planning System: Toward a Customer‐Oriented Supply Chain
Authors: Basaez Marco Opazo , Aranda Daniel Arias , Djundubaev Ruslan , Montesinos Francisco Sánchez
Published: August 2014

Bolt‐on extensions enhance the road toward a customer‐oriented supply chain.
Solid‐phase microextraction of phthalate esters by a new coating based on a thermally stable polypyrrole/graphene oxide composite
Authors: Jafari Mostafa , Ebrahimzadeh Homeira , Banitaba Mohammad Hossein , Davarani Saied Saeed Hosseiny
Published: August 2014

A novel polypyrole/graphene oxide coating was made by the electrochemical polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate and graphene oxide on a platinum wire. The prepared fiber has shown a good thermal stability up to 300°C. The fiber was applied to the direct solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatographic analysis of four phthalate esters. The effect of four parameters on gas chromatography peak area including extraction temperature, extraction time, injection temperature, and ionic strength were investigated. Under the optimized conditions, the detection limits were between 0.042 and 0.26 μg/L. The intraday and interday relative standard deviations obtained at 55 μg/L, using a single fiber, were 8.2–16% and 17.3–25.6%, respectively. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of phthalate esters in two real samples of boiling water in cheap disposable clear plastic drinking cups showing recoveries from 83 to 120%.
Information Structures and Business Performance – Implications for Technology‐based Firm's Innovation Performance
Authors: Löfsten Hans
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study is to analyze two critical resource dimensions regarding their implications on innovation performance (development of patents): systematic information structures and business performance. This study leverages a dataset of 99 medium‐sized technology‐based firms in six different branches in Sweden. The used dataset contains a number of different variables concerning these two constructs. Two hypotheses are developed, and statistical methods such as correlation matrixes, factor analyses, and regression analyses are used. Six latent variables are developed, and the hypothesis including two of the three latent variables of systematic information structures is supported: knowledge dissemination and documentation of processes. However, there are no links between business performance and innovation performance. This study especially explores two different resources: systematic information structures and business performance. The first one contributes positively to the firm's innovation performance, and this construct consists of two different significant latent variables: knowledge dissemination and documentation of processes. This is an important implication to the firm's management active process to communicate results or a flow of information within the firm to increase innovation performance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The clinical utility of vocal dosimetry for assessing voice rest
Authors: Misono Stephanie , Banks Kathryn , Gaillard Philippe , Goding George S. , Yueh Bevan
Published: August 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Voice rest is frequently recommended following surgical disruption of vocal fold epithelium, but patients report variable adherence to voice rest recommendations. The objective of this study was to assess the clinical utility of an ambulatory vocal dosimeter for measuring adherence to voice rest recommendations.

Study Design

Outcomes research.

Methods

Part 1: To determine the utility of the dosimeter in nonclinical use, the relationship between self‐reported voice use and dosimeter measurements was examined in normal subjects (n = 11) who prospectively logged voice use while wearing the dosimeter. Part 2: To determine clinical utility of the dosimeter, patients undergoing vocal fold surgery for which postoperative voice rest was recommended (n = 11) wore a dosimeter for 2 days prior to and 2 days after surgery. Phonation percent and sound level were compared at baseline and during voice rest.

Results

The dosimeter performed as hypothesized with both normal subjects and patients. A moderate correlation (r = 0.62) was noted between self‐reported voice use and dosimeter measurements in normal subjects. In patients on voice rest, a statistically and clinically significant decrease was observed in measured voice use, both in phonation time (P = .002) and intensity of phonation (P = .004).

Conclusions

Ambulatory vocal dosimetry may have clinical utility for assessing adherence to voice rest recommendations. This information will be useful for the design of future studies on voice rest.

Level of Evidence

2c Laryngoscope, 125:171–176, 2015
Poly(ε‐caprolactone) and Pluronic Diol‐Containing Segmented Polyurethanes for Shape Memory Performance
Authors: Czifrák Katalin , Karger‐Kocsis József , Daróczi Lajos , Zsuga Miklós , Kéki Sándor
Published: August 2014

A series of novel segmented linear and crosslinked polyurethanes (PUs) are synthesized from poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) (25 kg mol−1), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), and various polyether diols (Pluronic (PLU) and polyethylene glycol (PEG)). The basic structures of the highly deformable PUs are PLU/PEG–MDI–PCL–MDI–PLU/PEG and PLU–MDI–PCL–MDI–PLU, respectively. The linear and crosslinked PUs are characterized. Changes in the tensile behavior are attributed to the effects of compositional variables and alterations in the crosslink density. Additional information on the morphology of the segmented PUs is deduced from differential scanning calorimetry, as well as transmission and scanning electron microscopy investigations. Both the linear and the crosslinked PUs exhibit a broad rubbery plateau above the melting temperature of the crystalline PCL phase, which is highly beneficial for shape memory function. This work highlights that the chemical build‐up of soft segments containing high‐molecular‐weight crystallizable chain units is a proper tool to tailor the morphology and mechanical properties of PUs, and thus also their shape memory properties.

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Materialism, Religion, and Implications for Marketing—An Ethnographic Study of Nichiren Buddhism
Authors: Choudhury Koushiki
Published: August 2014

The pursuit of material pleasures, construed as symbolizing consumer culture, is often at odds with religion. Hence for consumers for whom religion is important, there may be a quandary reconciling religious values, such as simple living and modest possessions with living in today's society awash with the ideology of consumerism with its abundance of goods and propaganda of the materialistic good life. This study explores how consumers reconcile religious precepts with materialism in today's consumer culture and society with an ethnographic study of a worldwide Buddhist organization that practices Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism. The study reveals that religion can embrace even the paradoxical entities of consumerism, materialism, and spiritualism; transcend thought duality; and emanate the positive potential intrinsic to all, leading to an individual human revolution with implications for marketing and societal transformation. The researcher hopes to add to the understanding of the religion, consumerism, and materialism linkage.
Dynamic changes in composition of extracts of natural products as monitored by in situ NMR
Authors: Charisiadis Pantelis , Tsiafoulis Constantinos G. , Tzakos Andreas G. , Gerothanassis Ioannis P.
Published: August 2014

The direct in situ NMR observation and quantification, based on the aldehyde –CH chemical shift region, of the inter‐conversion of secoiridoid derivatives due to temperature and solvent effects is demonstrated in complex extracts of natural products without prior isolation of the individual components. The equilibrium between the aldehyde hydrate form and the dialdehyde form of the oleuropein aglycon of an olive leaf aqueous extract in D2O was shown to be temperature dependent. The resulting thermodynamic values of the Van't Hoff plot with ΔHo = −26.34 ± 1.00 kJ mol−1 and TΔS° (298 K) = −24.70 ± 1.00 kJ mol−1 demonstrate a significant entropy term which nearly compensates the effect of enthalpy at room temperature. The equilibrium between the two diastereomeric hemiacetal forms and the dialdehyde form of the oleuropein 6‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside aglycon of an olive leaf aqueous extract in CD3OD was also shown to be strongly temperature dependent again because of the significant entropy term (TΔS° (298 K) = −26.50 ± 1.39 kJ mol−1) compared with that of the enthalpy term (ΔHo = −36.64 ± 1.46 kJ mol−1). This is the first demonstration of the significant role of the entropy parameter in determining the equilibrium of chemical transformations in complex mixtures of natural products due to solvent and temperature effects. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The pH induced vesicle to micelle morphology transition of a THP‐protected polymer
Authors: Doncom Kay E. B. , Willcock Helen , O'Reilly Rachel K.
Published: August 2014

A diblock copolymer consisting of tetrahydropyranyl acrylate (THPA) as a pH‐deprotectable block, and a permanently hydrophobic block, methyl acrylate, was synthesized by RAFT polymerization using a quaternary amine functionalized, hydrophilic, RAFT chain transfer agent. The polymer self‐assembled in water to form vesicles with Dh = 130 nm, as determined by DLS and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy. Acid catalyzed deprotection of the THPA units to yield acrylic acid resulted in a vesicle to micelle morphology transition, as evidenced by the decrease in hydrodynamic diameter to Dh = 19 nm and the observation of micelles by dry state transmission electron microscopy. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 3026–3031
The impact of surface hydrogenation on the thermionic electron emission from polycrystalline diamond films
Authors: Elfimchev S. , Michaelson Sh. , Akhvlediani R. , Chandran M. , Kaslasi H. , Hoffman A.
Published: August 2014

In this work, thermionic electron emission (TEE) from hot filament chemical vapour deposition polycrystalline diamond films deposited on p‐type silicon substrates was recorded in the 25–650 °C temperature range. The studied surfaces were as deposited, as well as hydrogenated by atomic hydrogen under ultra‐high vacuum conditions. The impact of substrate temperature during hydrogenation, TH, on TEE was studied. For TH = 25 °C the TEE was found to display a broad maximum at substrate temperature around 300 °C followed by an exponential increase. Annealing at 700 °C results in irreversible changes in surface conditioning, and drastic reduction of TEE yield at low temperatures. For samples that underwent hydrogenation at TH = 300 and 500 °C, the TEE yield is significant at higher temperatures only. The TEE from these samples is stable also after 700 °C annealing treatment. We associate these effects with irreversible thermal induced physicochemical changes of the hydrogen bonding configuration adsorbed on the polycrystalline diamond surface resulting in changes in its surface electronic structure which occur upon annealing to ∼300 °C.
Pollen count and exhaled nitric oxide levels in a seasonal allergic rhinitis patient
Authors: Shirai Toshihiro , Mochizuki Eisuke , Asada Kazuhiro , Suda Takafumi
Published: August 2014

The subject was a 52‐year‐old man with Japanese cedar pollinosis, which developed between February and May. He had no history of asthma and was an ex‐smoker. He underwent fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurements twice a week from 2010 to 2012. The pollen counts in 2010 were the lowest during the last decade, and the FeNO level was less than 30 ppb for the whole year. In contrast, the mean pollen count in 2011 was very high and the patient's FeNO level rose to more than 100 ppb. The mean pollen count in 2012 was comparable with that of 2010; however, high counts were detected in April and May, and the FeNO level rose to 70 ppb during the latter stages of the pollen season. These results indicate that pollen counts should be taken into consideration during the interpretation of FeNO data in asthma or allergic rhinitis.
Improvement to the scanning electron microscope image adaptive Canny optimization colorization by pseudo‐mapping
Authors: Lo T. Y. , Sim K. S. , Tso C. P. , Nia M. E.
Published: August 2014

An improvement to the previously proposed adaptive Canny optimization technique for scanning electron microscope image colorization is reported. The additional feature, called pseudo‐mapping technique, is that the grayscale markings are temporarily mapped to a set of pre‐defined pseudo‐color map as a mean to instill color information for grayscale colors in chrominance channels. This allows the presence of grayscale markings to be identified; hence optimization colorization of grayscale colors is made possible. This additional feature enhances the flexibility of scanning electron microscope image colorization by providing wider range of possible color enhancement. Furthermore, the nature of this technique also allows users to adjust the luminance intensities of selected region from the original image within certain extent. SCANNING 36:530–539, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Research and Application of Ultra‐Fast Cooling System and Velocity Controlled Strategy for Hot Rolled Strip
Authors: Li Zhen‐Lei , Li Hai‐Jun , Yuan Guo , Wang Guo‐Dong , Wang Xue‐Qiang
Published: August 2014

Ultra‐fast cooling is an advanced technology in hot rolling for the development of low‐cost and high‐performance steels where precise control of temperature is the key factor to obtain desired mechanical properties. The conventional cooling system does not have a good adaptive capability because the pressure of cooling water and water flow of each valve is different. Thus, key components in ultra‐fast cooling are introduced, namely sequential controlled structure is proposed to implement the dynamic stochastic control of ultra‐fast cooling temperature (UFCT) and coiling temperature (CT). Next, a mathematical model based on ultra‐fast cooling process is described. Furthermore, the velocity controlled strategy for each strip element including the time, velocity, and distance (TVD) curve calculation method and on‐line cyclic modification and calculation (OCMC) strategy is designed to minimize the fluctuation in velocity. With the help of proposed velocity controlled strategy, the temperature fluctuation affected by velocity variation is effectively eliminated and the system realizes accurate temperature control of UFCT and CT. The system has been applied successfully in steel production with high accuracy control laying a solid foundation for the development of new products.
In Situ Observation of Model Catalysts under Reaction Conditions Using X‐ray Core‐Level Spectroscopy
Authors: Yoshida Masaaki , Kondoh Hiroshi
Published: August 2014

Chemical reactions at solid surfaces are of great importance in heterogeneous catalysis and the understanding of their reaction mechanisms has been challenged for a long time by a wide variety of approaches. In situ observation of model catalysts under reaction conditions is a promising approach to understand the mechanisms. Toward this aim we have been developing several spectroscopic techniques using synchrotron‐radiation X‐rays. In this Personal Account, synchrotron‐radiation‐based X‐ray core‐level spectroscopies for in situ observation are introduced and some of their applications in studying the mechanisms of catalytic reactions are highlighted. Future directions for further development of these spectroscopies are also described.
Applications of Time‐Domain Spectroscopy to Electron–Phonon Coupling Dynamics at Surfaces
Authors: Matsumoto Yoshiyasu
Published: August 2014

Photochemistry is one of the most important branches in chemistry to promote and control chemical reactions. In particular, there has been growing interest in photoinduced processes at solid surfaces and interfaces with liquids such as water for developing efficient solar energy conversion. For example, photoinduced charge transfer between adsorbates and semiconductor substrates at the surfaces of metal oxides induced by photogenerated holes and electrons is a core process in photovoltaics and photocatalysis. In these photoinduced processes, electron–phonon coupling plays a central role. This paper describes how time‐domain spectroscopy is applied to elucidate electron–phonon coupling dynamics at metal and semiconductor surfaces. Because nuclear dynamics induced by electronic excitation through electron–phonon coupling take place in the femtosecond time domain, the pump‐and‐probe method with ultrashort pulses used in time‐domain spectroscopy is a natural choice for elucidating the electron–phonon coupling at metal and semiconductor surfaces. Starting with a phenomenological theory of coherent phonons generated by impulsive electronic excitation, this paper describes a couple of illustrative examples of the applications of linear and nonlinear time‐domain spectroscopy to a simple adsorption system, alkali metal on Cu(111), and more complex photocatalyst systems.
A self‐organized resource allocation scheme for heterogeneous macro‐femto networks
Authors: Mehta Mahima , Rane Nirbhay , Karandikar Abhay , Imran Muhammad Ali , Evans Barry G.
Published: August 2014

This paper investigates the radio resource management (RRM) issues in a heterogeneous macro‐femto network. The objective of femto deployment is to improve coverage, capacity, and experienced quality of service of indoor users. The location and density of user‐deployed femtos is not known a‐priori. This makes interference management crucial. In particular, with co‐channel allocation (to improve resource utilization efficiency), RRM becomes involved because of both cross‐layer and co‐layer interference. In this paper, we review the resource allocation strategies available in the literature for heterogeneous macro‐femto network. Then, we propose a self‐organized resource allocation (SO‐RA) scheme for an orthogonal frequency division multiple access based macro‐femto network to mitigate co‐layer interference in the downlink transmission. We compare its performance with the existing schemes like Reuse‐1, adaptive frequency reuse (AFR), and AFR with power control (one of our proposed modification to AFR approach) in terms of 10 percentile user throughput and fairness to femto users. The performance of AFR with power control scheme matches closely with Reuse‐1, while the SO‐RA scheme achieves improved throughput and fairness performance. SO‐RA scheme ensures minimum throughput guarantee to all femto users and exhibits better performance than the existing state‐of‐the‐art resource allocation schemes.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ionothermal Syntheses, Crystal Structures and Luminescence of Two Lanthanide‐Carboxylate Frameworks based on the 1, 4‐Naphthalenedicarboxylate and Oxalate Mixed Ligands
Authors: Gao Ming‐Jun , Wang Yu‐Ling , Cao Hai‐Yan , Liu Qing‐Yan , Chen Li‐Li
Published: August 2014

Ionothermal reactions of Ln(NO3)3 [Ln = Eu (1), Sm (2)] with 1, 4‐naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (1, 4‐H2ndc) and oxalic acid (H2ox) in 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide (EMIM‐Br) ionic liquid (IL) afforded two lanthanide compounds, namely, {(EMIM)[Ln(1, 4‐ndc)(ox)0.5Br]}n [Ln = Eu (1), Sm (2)]. The two isomorphous compounds consist of anionic three‐dimensional lanthanide‐carboxylate frameworks and extraframework charge‐balancing species of [EMIM]+ cations. Both compounds are 6‐connected pcu topological nets based on the dinuclear lanthanide secondary building units. It is noted that the cationic and anionic components of the IL are incorporated into the structures under the present ionothermal conditions. Moreover, the use of IL solvent for preparation of the lanthanide compounds can prevent the coordination of water and organic solvent molecules from central lanthanide atoms effectively. Detailed photoluminescence studies showed both compounds exhibit typical lanthanide luminescent emissions. An efficient excitation energy transfer from organic ligand‐to‐EuIII ion is observed in compound 1.
Using formal reasoning on a model of tasks for FreeRTOS
Authors: Cheng Shu , Woodcock Jim , D’Souza Deepak
Published: August 2014

FreeRTOS is an open-source real-time microkernel that has a wide community of users. We present the formal specification of the behaviour of the task part of FreeRTOS that deals with the creation, management, and scheduling of tasks using priority-based preemption. Our model is written in the Z notation, and we verify its consistency using the Z/Eves theorem prover. This includes a precise statement of the preconditions for all API commands. This task model forms the basis for three dimensions of further work: (a) the modelling of the rest of the behaviour of queues, time, mutex, and interrupts in FreeRTOS; (b) refinement of the models to code to produce a verified implementation; and (c) extension of the behaviour of FreeRTOS to multi-core architectures. We propose all three dimensions as benchmark challenge problems for Hoare’s Verified Software Initiative.
Exploring Barriers to Payer Utilization of Genetic Counselors
Authors: Doyle Nan , Cirino Allison , Trivedi Amber , Flynn Maureen
Published: August 2014

Access to genetic counselors’ services is neither universal nor automatic, due in part to the gatekeeper role of healthcare payers – the companies and agencies that purchase healthcare services on patients’ behalf and control the bulk of healthcare spending. This pilot study surveyed and analyzed the relative importance of barriers to expanded payer coverage of genetic counselors’ services. Surveys were mailed to 263 medical directors and quality assurance directors at health insurance carriers throughout the United States. Respondents provided demographic information and indicated the importance of nine possible barriers, plus an optional write‐in “other.” Twenty‐two surveys were analyzed. “Evidence that use of genetic counselors improves health outcomes” led the list of factors having a significant/very significant influence on coverage policy. Sixteen respondents (73 %) rated this factor “4” or “5” on a Likert scale; it also received the most #1 rankings and the highest score using a weighted‐mean analysis. Provider practice guidelines, CMS/Medicare regulations, and genetic counselor licensure‐all of which are outside of payers’ direct control‐also ranked highly. The research demonstrates that although the potential barriers to expanded reimbursement for genetic counselors are numerous and complex, some are more consistently identified as important and therefore more deserving of legislative and advocacy resources to effect change. Future research should endeavor to increase survey response and include providers as well as payers. (222 words)
The Utilization of Counseling Skills by the Laboratory Genetic Counselor
Authors: Goodenberger McKinsey L. , Thomas Brittany C. , Wain Karen E.
Published: August 2014

The number of available genetic testing options and the nuances associated with these options continue to expand. In addition, the scope of genetic testing has broadened to areas and specialties beyond Medical Genetics. In response to these changes, diagnostic laboratories have employed genetic counselors to help navigate the increasing complexity of genetic testing, given their expertise and training in human genetics. However a largely unrecognized aspect of this role involves the use of counseling skills. Counseling skills are used by laboratory genetic counselors in a variety of situations to convey information and facilitate understanding among clinicians and medical staff. This helps to reduce test ordering errors, promote optimal test utilization, and ensure best patient care practices. The specific counseling skills used by laboratory counselors will be explored using three fictional case vignettes, followed by a discussion of the applicability of these skills in other contexts. Exploration of the unique ways in which laboratory genetic counselors apply their counseling skills can be useful for professional development and instructive for graduate training programs.
Synthesis, Physico‐Chemical Properties and Enhanced Oil Recovery Flooding Evaluation of Novel Zwitterionic Gemini Surfactants
Authors: Dong Zhen , Zheng Ying , Zhao Jianshe
Published: August 2014

In this work, a novel series of zwitterionic gemini surfactants with different hydrophobic tails were synthesized and characterized. The physico‐chemical properties of these products (such as surface tension, oil/water interfacial tension, foaming ability, and the wetting ability of paraffin‐coated sandstone) were fully studied. The CMC of the synthesized surfactants ranged from 2.17 × 10−4 mol L−1 to 5.36 × 10−4 mol L−1 and corresponding surface tension (γCMC) ranged from 26.49 mN m−1 to 29.06 mN m−1, which showed excellent efficiency among the comparison surfactants. All the products can reduce the interfacial tension to a relatively low level of about 0.1–1.0 mN m−1. Additionally, results from applying different hydrocarbons suggested that the synergy will be clearer and oil/water interfacial tension will be lower if the oil components are similar to the surfactants. Contact angle and foaming measurements indicated that the surfactants exhibited good wetting and foaming abilities. The results of oil flooding experiments using an authentic sandstone microscopic model showed that C‐12 and CA‐12 could effectively improve the displacement efficiency by 21–29 %.
Efficiency of Laundry Polymers Containing Liquid Detergents for Hard Surface Cleaning
Authors: Uner Ahmet , Yilmaz Faruk
Published: August 2014

Three water soluble laundry polymers were employed for the first time in liquid detergent formulations for hard surface cleaning. The polymers included in the formulations were the sodium salt of maleic acid/olefin copolymer (P1, anionic), polyethyleneimine (P2, cationic), and polyethylene glycol‐g‐vinyl acetate (P3, nonionic). Commercially available surfactants (C10 Guerbet alcohol alkoxylate (FAEO), caprylyl/decyl glucoside (APG), and the sodium salt of ethoxylated alkyl ether sulfate (SLES) were chosen to formulate bathroom, kitchen, and all‐purpose cleaners, which provide the desired broad of pH range for hard surface applications. Their hard surface cleaning efficiencies were also compared with an amphoteric polymer (amino modified polycarboxylate, P4) as amphoteric polymers are the most suitable structures for hard surface cleaning. The standard test method and the cleaning device, the so‐called cleaning robot, were used to investigate the primary cleaning performances and synergies of the chosen polymers in a hard surface cleaners system. Secondary cleaning performance tests, which indicate the effects of the hard surface cleaners on surface modification, were also performed. The results revealed that the formulations containing P3 and P4 gave the better cleaning performance for primary cleaning tests whereas only P4‐containing formulations showed the significant results for secondary cleaning tests.
Are there Racial Gaps in High School Leadership Opportunities? Do Academics Matter More?
Authors: Weinberger Catherine
Published: August 2014

Participation in high school sports and leadership activities is typically associated with later adult earnings premia. In stark contrast to the large but diminishing racial disadvantage found in other measures of educational opportunity, this analysis of high school leadership development finds few examples of racial disadvantage in historical 1960 data, but an emerging disadvantage to black female students between 1972 and 2004. Earnings regressions reveal positive earnings premia to black women who engaged in sports and leadership activities as adolescents, but not to black men. Particularly large premia to higher math scores (or penalties to lower math scores) among black workers are also observed. These findings call into question any world-view in which U.S. wages are a simple function of observable worker qualifications, and highlight the continued need to monitor equitable access to educational opportunities in U.S. schools.
The differential impact of a classroom‐based, alcohol harm reduction intervention, on adolescents with different alcohol use experiences: A multi‐level growth modelling analysis
Authors: McKay Michael , Sumnall Harry , McBride Nyanda , Harvey Séamus
Published: August 2014

While evidence has accumulated suggesting that prevention initiatives may have a limited impact on alcohol use behaviour, reviews suggest that interventions with most potential for behavioural change are interactive and developmental in design. The School Health and Alcohol Harm Reduction Project (SHAHRP) is an example of such an intervention. Researchers are increasingly attempting to understand the differential effects of programmes in population subgroups. The present study is a secondary analysis of data from a non‐randomised trial of SHAHRP, a classroom‐based alcohol education intervention, involving school children (aged 13–16 years old) in the United Kingdom. Results showed that there were significant positive changes in knowledge about and attitudes towards alcohol in baseline abstainers, supervised drinkers and unsupervised drinkers. Significant positive behavioural effects in terms of amounts consumed, frequency of drinking and self‐reported alcohol related harms, were observed almost exclusively among baseline unsupervised drinkers. These behavioural effects support those previously observed in Australia and suggest that the intervention is a viable health promotion tool in the UK.
Risk factors for 1‐year mortality in patients with intermediate‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma treated solely with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization
Authors: Lin Chih‐Lin , Hsieh Chia‐Feng , Chen Tom , Lin Tsung‐Jung , Huang Ting‐Chang , Lee Hsi‐Chang , Chen Kuan‐Yang , Liao Li‐Ying , Wang Chung‐Kwe
Published: August 2014

Background/aims

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a main therapy for patients with intermediate‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The purpose of our study was to determine the risk factors for 1‐year mortality in patients treated solely with TACE.

Methods

A total of 123 patients with intermediate‐stage HCC treated solely with TACE were recruited from Ren‐ai Branch, Taipei City hospital during the period from January 1998 to June 2013. Baseline characteristics and factors associated with 1‐year mortality were analyzed.

Results

There were 94 men (76.4%) and 29 women (23.6%) among 123 newly diagnosed intermediate‐stage HCC patients treated solely with TACE. The mean age was 63 ± 11 years (range, 31–92 years). The 1–5‐year overall cumulative survival rates were 65.9%, 46%, 33.2%, 22%, and 18.4% [median: 23 months, 95% confidence interval (CI): 16.4–29.6 months], respectively. Of these, 42 (34.1%) and 81 (65.9%) patients had survival time shorter (Group 1) and longer (Group 2) than 1 year, respectively. There were no significant differences in sex, age, hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus positive rate and tumor number between Group 1 and Group 2 patients. Compared to Group 2, Group 1 patients had a significantly larger mean maximum tumor size (6.8 ± 3.2 cm vs. 5.3 ± 3.1 cm, p = 0.024), lower serum albumin level (3.4 ± 0.45 g/dL vs. 3.6 ± 0.46 g/dL, p = 0.011), higher serum bilirubin level (1.52 ± 1.07 mg/dL vs. 1.07 ± 0.59 mg/dL, p = 0.023), higher ratio of serum alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) > 400 ng/mL (52.4% vs. 24.7%, p = 0.003), and higher ratio of Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh (CTP) class B cirrhosis (26.2% vs. 6.2%, p = 0.003). Multivariate analysis revealed that AFP level > 400 ng/mL [hazard ratio (HR): 2.663, 95% CI: 1.143–6.205, p = 0.023], CTP class B cirrhosis (HR: 4.69, 95% CI: 1.399–15.715, p = 0.012) and tumor size (HR: 1.153 for each 1 cm increase, 95% CI: 1.015–1.310, p = 0.029) were independently associated with 1‐year mortality.

Conclusion

One‐year mortality in patients with intermediate‐stage HCC treated solely with TACE is not uncommon. High serum AFP level (> 400 ng/mL), CTP class B cirrhosis, and tumor size are independent risk factors for 1‐year mortality in those patients.
Do Textured Insoles Affect Postural Control and Spatiotemporal Parameters of Gait and Plantar Sensation in People With Multiple Sclerosis?
Authors: Kalron Alon , Pasitselsky Diana , Greenberg‐Abrahami Michal , Achiron Anat
Published: August 2014

Background

Balance and gait deficits are common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Physical interventions directed at improving balance and walking abilities have been implemented using various approaches. Nonetheless, no mode of training has been universally agreed upon.

Objectives

To determine whether textured insoles have immediate effects on postural control and spatiotemporal parameters of gait and plantar sensation in people with people with MS and to explore effects 4 weeks after insole wear as to whether any immediate effects are maintained over time.

Design

Within‐subject experimental study with a 4‐week intervention phase.

Settings

Multiple Sclerosis Center, Center of Advanced Technologies in Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Center, Tel‐Hashomer, Israel.

Participants

Twenty‐five relapsing‐remitting patients diagnosed with MS, 16 women and 9 men, aged 49.6 years (standard deviation = 6.5 years).

Intervention

Textured insoles customized according to foot size and adapted to the participant's casual shoes.

Main outcome measures

Spatiotemporal parameters of gait and center of pressure (CoP) excursions during static postural control were studied using the Zebris FDM‐T Treadmill. Light‐touch and pressure‐sensation thresholds were determined using the Semmes‐Weinstein monofilaments test.

Results

Textured insoles did not alter static postural control parameters when examined with eyes open. Examination during the eyes‐closed task demonstrated an immediate reduction in the CoP path length (298.4 mm, standard error = 49.7 mm, versus 369.9 mm, SE = 56.3 mm; P = .04) and sway rate (12.0 mm/s, standard error = 1.4 mm/s, versus 15.1 mm/s, standard error = 1.6 mm/s; P = .03) after insertion of the textured insoles compared to casual shoes alone. These findings were maintained at termination of the insole 4‐week intervention period. In terms of spatiotemporal parameters of gait, differences were not observed between casual shoes and shoes with textured insoles at baseline. Likewise, no differences were observed between initial and concluding gait trials. Significant differences in plantar sensitivity measures were not observed after the insole 4‐week intervention phase.

Conclusions

Although there were improvements in some aspects of balance, the efficacy of textured insoles in the MS population remains unclear.
The singularity expansion method and near-trapping of linear water waves
Authors: Meylan Michael H. , Fitzgerald Colm J.
Published: August 2014

The problem of near-trapping of linear water waves in the time domain for rigid bodies or variations in bathymetry is considered. The singularity expansion method (SEM) is used to give an approximation of the solution as a projection onto a basis of modes. This requires a modification of the method so that the modes, which grow towards infinity, can be correctly normalized. A time-dependent solution, which allows for possible trapped modes, is introduced through the generalized eigenfunction method. The expression for the trapped mode and the expression for the near-trapped mode given by the SEM are shown to be closely connected. A numerical method that allows the SEM to be implemented is also presented. This method combines the boundary element method with an eigenfunction expansion, which allows the solution to be extended analytically to complex frequencies. The technique is illustrated by numerical simulations for geometries that support near-trapping.
Effects of tea intake on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Liu Gang , Mi Xue-Nan , Zheng Xin-Xin , Xu Yan-Lu , Lu Jie , Huang Xiao-Hong
Published: August 2014

The effect of tea intake on blood pressure (BP) is controversial. We performed a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials to determine the changes in systolic and diastolic BP due to the intake of black and green tea. A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register up to May 2014. The weighted mean difference was calculated for net changes in systolic and diastolic BP using fixed-effects or random-effects models. Previously defined subgroup analyses were performed to explore the influence of study characteristics. A total of twenty-five eligible studies with 1476 subjects were selected. The acute intake of tea had no effects on systolic and diastolic BP. However, after long-term tea intake, the pooled mean systolic and diastolic BP were lower by − 1·8 (95 % CI − 2·4, − 1·1) and − 1·4 (95 % CI − 2·2, − 0·6) mmHg, respectively. When stratified by type of tea, green tea significantly reduced systolic BP by 2·1 (95 % CI − 2·9, − 1·2) mmHg and decreased diastolic BP by 1·7 (95 % CI − 2·9, − 0·5) mmHg, and black tea showed a reduction in systolic BP of 1·4 (95 % CI − 2·4, − 0·4) mmHg and a decrease in diastolic BP of 1·1 (95 % CI − 1·9, − 0·2) mmHg. The subgroup analyses showed that the BP-lowering effect was apparent in subjects who consumed tea more than 12 weeks (systolic BP − 2·6 (95 % CI − 3·5, − 1·7) mmHg and diastolic BP − 2·2 (95 % CI − 3·0, − 1·3) mmHg, both P< 0·001). The present findings suggest that long-term ( ≥ 12 weeks) ingestion of tea could result in a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic BP.
Hotspots and gaps in the world collection of subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneumL.)
Authors: GHAMKHAR K. , NICHOLS P. G. H. , ERSKINE W. , SNOWBALL R. , MURILLO M. , APPELS R. , RYAN M. H.
Published: August 2014

Subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneumL.) is the most important annual pasture legume in the winter-dominant rainfall areas of Southern Australia. Systematic germplasm collections of subterranean clover from its centre of origin have been made since the 1950s, particularly by Australian scientists, in order to broaden the genetic base of the species. The present study reports on a meta-analysis of the distribution of the world collection of subterranean clovers and their relationships to eco-geographic variables of the collection sites in their native habitat. Diversity hotspots (areas rich in number of accessions and containing a high diversity of sub-species) and also gaps (areas with particular traits un- or under-represented in collections) were identified. This was achieved using a stratified data system to evaluate eco-geographical and agro-morphological data which incorporated three tiers of information for the subterranean clover collection: (1) information from each collection site, including ecological data; (2) information on the phenotypic diversity within each collection site; and (3) plant agro-morphological data from each sample grown under controlled conditions. Correlations were found between some eco-geographic conditions and agronomic performance. These included correlations between latitude and flowering time, mean temperature in winter and winter productivity and precipitation in summer and seed dormancy. The present study concluded that subterranean clover versatility is greater than suggested in the past. The results of the current analysis provide a guide for future collecting missions to specific regions towards areas of maximum diversity (hotspots) and unknown diversity (gaps).
Does nature have joints worth carving? A discussion of taxometrics, model-based clustering and latent variable mixture modeling
Authors: Lubke G. H. , Miller P. J.
Published: August 2014

Taxometric procedures, model-based clustering and latent variable mixture modeling (LVMM) are statistical methods that use the inter-relationships of observed symptoms or questionnaire items to investigate empirically whether the underlying psychiatric or psychological construct is dimensional or categorical. In this review we show why the results of such an investigation depend on the characteristics of the observed symptoms (e.g. symptom prevalence in the sample) and of the sample (e.g. clinical, population sample). Furthermore, the three methods differ with respect to their assumptions and therefore require different types of a priori knowledge about the observed symptoms and their inter-relationships. We argue that the choice of method should optimally match and make use of the existing knowledge about the data that are analyzed.
Bilingual advantages, bilingual delays: Sometimes an illusion
Authors: Byers-Heinlein Krista
Published: August 2014

Studying bilingualism is complicated. Baum and Titone's Keynote Article concludes with a discussion of three particularly thorny issues in bilingualism research: (a) bilinguals are not a homogeneous group, (b) bilingualism is not randomly assigned, and (c) the effects of bilingualism are often more complicated than simple advantages or disadvantages/delays. On this latter point, Baum and Titone consider how binary thinking about bilingualism as good or bad can limit the kinds of research questions that we ask. Here, I expand on this issue by showing how some apparent bilingual advantages and disadvantages can be illusory. I describe two examples of reasonable, justifiable, and prudent experimental designs that initially led to misleading conclusions about the effects of bilingualism on development. While both of these examples are drawn from research with bilingual infants, they nonetheless have implications for how we interpret the results of studies of bilingualism across the life span.
Commentary on Baum and Titone
Authors: Kapa Leah , Kemper Susan
Published: August 2014

Baum and Titone address several issues related to bilingual advantages in executive control that are often overlooked in this literature but warrant further consideration and empirical investigation. We limit our comments to two issues: the problem of establishing the directional relationship between bilingualism and executive control and the problem of decomposing executive control.