bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hsa_circ_0009096/miR-370-3p modulates hepatic stellate cell proliferation and fibrosis during biliary atresia pathogenesis
Authors: Wu Zhouguang , Wang Bin , Chen Siqi , Zuo Taoyan , Zhang Wenjie , Cheng Zhen , Fu Jingru , Gong Jiafeng
Published: May 2024

Background

Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and hepatic fibrosis mediated biliary atresia (BA) development, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the roles of circRNA hsa_circ_0009096 in the regulation of HSC proliferation and hepatic fibrosis.

Methods

A cellular hepatic fibrosis model was established by treating LX-2 cells with transforming growth factor β (TGF-β1). RNaseR and actinomycin D assays were performed to detect hsa_circ_0009096 stability. Expression of hsa_circ_0009096, miR-370-3p, and target genes was detected using reverse transcription-qPCR. Direct binding of hsa_circ_0009096 to miR-370-3p was validated using dual luciferase reporter assay. Cell cycle progression and apoptosis of LX-2 cells were assessed using flow cytometry. The alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen 1A1 (COL1A1), and TGF beta receptor 2 (TGFBR2) protein levels in LX-2 cells were analyzed using immunocytochemistry and western blotting.

Results

Hsa_circ_0009096 exhibited more resistance to RNase R and actinomycinD digestion than UTRN mRNA. Hsa_circ_0009096 expression increased significantly in LX-2 cells treated with TGF-β1, accompanied by elevated α-SMA and COL1A1 expression. Hsa_circ_0009096 siRNAs effectively promoted miR-370-3p and suppressed TGFBR2 expression in LX-2 cells, mediated by direct association of hsa_circ_0009096 with miR-370-3p. Hsa_circ_0009096 siRNA interfered with the cell cycle progression, promoted apoptosis, and reduced α-SMA and COL1A1 expression in LX-2 cells treated with TGF-β1. MiR-370-3p inhibitors mitigated the alterations in cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and α-SMA, COL1A1, and TGFBR2 expression in LX-2 cells caused by hsa_circ_0009096 siRNA. In conclusion, hsa_circ_0009096 promoted HSC proliferation and hepatic fibrosis during BA pathogenesis by accelerating TGFBR2 expression by sponging miR-370-3p.
Computational Analysis of Vertical Subsonic Propane Jet Fires: A Comparative Study of Commercial (COMSOL) and Open Source (FDS) Software
Authors: Palacios A. , Castro-Olivera P. M. , Llante-Salas A. , Foroughi V. , Casal J.
Published: May 2024

Jet fires can represent a great potential risk in the industry because they can lead to domino effects. Estimating specific semi-empirical correlations of the behavior of the flame such as thermal radiation, shape, and size can help to minimize or prevent the dangerous effects that a significant accident produced by a jet fire can have, regarding environmental consequences, human and financial losses. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is a technological tool that helps enterprises prevent major accidents through the simulation of possible scenarios. This paper compares the data obtained through the simulation of propane jet fires with the open-source Fire Dynamics Simulator software and the commercial software COMSOL Multiphysics v5.6 with the experimental data. The different correlations compared consist of flame length, flame area, and equivalent diameter, the results indicated that the jet fires of 12.75 and 20 mm and mass flows of 0.007, 0.016 and 0.020 kg/s were the ones with better correlations to the experimental data and two software programs employed.
Lógica Fuzzy aplicada à análise comportamental e conhecimento da guerra cognitiva em redes sociais: um modelo de extração e mineração de dados
Authors: Ferreira Vinícius Marques da Silva , Cosenza Carlos Alberto Nunes , Santos Edison Conde Perez dos , Boente Kilmer Pereira , Andrade Gustavo Bastos de , Santos Ricardo Marciano dos
Published: May 2024

A pesquisa visa compreender como comportamento, emoção e subjetividade participam da construção de um conflito ou polarização de ideias como instrumento da Guerra Cognitiva em redes sociais, entre atores ou grupos de atores, como por exemplo na plataforma Twitter e Facebook, através da aplicação de métodos ou modelos computacionais que trabalham a subjetividade entre os mesmos, utilizando-se de algoritmos baseados em aprendizado de máquina. O sentimento dos diálogos dos atores sobre o assunto abordado quanto a polaridade dos conteúdos, classificando as opiniões, por exemplo se são positivas ou neutras ou negativas, é também analisado. Adotaremos técnicas de mineração de texto e análise de sentimentos. O objetivo é desenvolver e apresentar um sistema de processamento e análise de textos que otimize a identificação de polarização de ideias e aperfeiçoe a tomada de decisão multicritério dentro de contextos diversos nas redes sociais, levando em conta sentimentos e emoções. A abordagem consiste em identificar e coletar as opiniões dos usuários do Twitter sobre determinados assuntos, na efervescência dos acontecimentos em torno dos assuntos elencados. São aplicadas as técnicas de mineração de texto e análise de sentimentos para extrair qualificadores dos dados analisados. Além disso, desenvolvemos um sistema de visualização de dados que se apoia na parametrização de intervalos de valores para cores. Nossos dados sugerem o que já se conhece à luz da psicolinguística: o humano, ao expressar-se, pode revelar uma variedade de emoções que experimenta, internamente, e que inspiram sua experiência subjetiva, suas ações, e sua comunicação.
Challenges Encountered during Anaesthetic Management of a Patient with Congenital Methaemoglobinemia Posted for Laproscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Case Report
Authors: Jain Vinita , Sultania Nidhi
Published: May 2024

Methaemoglobinemia is a rarely encountered haematological condition that can be congenital or acquired. Methaemoglobin is an abnormal type of haemoglobin that is oxidised and incapable of delivering oxygen to tissues. This can lead to cyanosis, hypoxia, acidosis, arrhythmias, and more, depending on the methaemoglobin concentration, and can be fatal. A thorough understanding of the disease process is essential to develop a suitable anaesthesia plan and prevent complications. Ensuring adequate tissue oxygenation, assessing oxygenation using appropriate monitoring tools, and avoiding trigger agents are the cornerstones of anaesthetic management. A co-oximeter is the gold standard for monitoring, as it detects and quantifies methaemoglobin levels. Methylene blue acts as an antidote, functioning as an oxidising agent that converts itself to leukomethylene blue, which reduces methaemoglobin back to haemoglobin. In the present case of a 60-year-old male, the authors present the anaesthetic management and challenges in a diagnosed case of congenital methaemoglobinemia undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair surgery. Methylene blue was administered prophylactically preoperatively. An arterial line was established before anaesthesia induction for close haemodynamic monitoring and quick blood gas and oxyhaemoglobin sampling, as a co-oximeter was not available. Adequate oxygenation during induction and emergence was ensured to prevent hypoxia, given the lower amount of normal haemoglobin in these patients. All potential trigger agents, such as nitrous oxide, local anaesthetics, nitrates, and metoclopramide, were avoided. The patient had an uneventful intraoperative and postoperative course and was discharged after one day.
Plasmapheresis as an Adjunctive Section Therapy for Yellow Phosphorus Poisoning: A Case Report
Authors: Dmello Brian William , Vasanthapuram Ashray , Narayan Girish , Murty Shakuntala , Mascarenhas Angeline Yvette
Published: May 2024

Yellow Phosphorus (YP) poisoning is an infrequent, yet severe medical condition characterised by multi-systemic toxicity. The ingestion or inhalation of YP can lead to gastrointestinal irritation, hepatic injury, and Acute Liver Failure (ALF). Plasmapheresis, a therapeutic intervention involving the removal and replacement of plasma components, is a potential adjunctive treatment for YP poisoning. This case report aims to explore the mechanistic rationale, clinical efficacy, and safety considerations of plasmapheresis in the management of this toxicological emergency. Here, a 16-year-old female reported to the Emergency Department (ED), having consumed 1-2 g of Ratol poison at two different times of the day. She came to the hospital on day 4 post-consumption. On admission, the patient was jaundiced and Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis was suggestive of respiratory alkalosis with hypokalemia. Treatment focused on fluid therapy, vitamin K therapy, and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC). She developed angioedema and urticaria with no airway compromise, in response to intravenous NAC. A diagnosis of acute liver injury secondary to YP poisoning was made. Close monitoring of liver function and coagulation parameters, and bleeding complications was done. Plasmapheresis was considered as NAC reinitiating was not feasible due to potential anaphylaxis. The patient responded well to the treatment and was discharged on day 7 of hospitalisation.
Comparative Analysis of Canine Distalisation between Ceramic and Metal Brackets: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kumar Arshya A , Jain Ravindra Kumar
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Orthodontic treatment frequently entails the distalisation of canines to address various malocclusions, involving moving the canines towards the posterior region of the dental arch. A crucial consideration in this treatment is the type of bracket material utilised, as it can impact the efficacy and efficiency of Canine Distalisation (CD). Aim: To analyse various in-vivo studies to evaluate the comparison of the rate of maxillary CD between Ceramic Brackets (CB) and Metal Brackets (MB) during fixed orthodontic treatment. Secondary factors assessed include the loss of anchorage, canine rotation, and canine tipping. Material and Methods: Articles were searched in electronic databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed. The search strategy was designed by two authors, AK and RKJ. The search did not include date restrictions. The list of references for the included articles was also searched. The systematic review included two Controlled Clinical Trials (CCT) and one Randomised Control Trial (RCT). Two authors, AK and RKJ, independently screened the titles, abstracts, and full texts of the identified studies during the literature search and then combined their findings. The information considered from the short-listed studies included the first author, year of publication, rate of CD, CB, and MB. Cochrane’s Risk of Bias (RoB) tool, RoB2 tool, and the Newcastle Ottawa scale were used to analyse bias. Results: The present review incorporated three studies. The analysis of the RoB indicated low RoB in one study and fair RoB in the other two. The systematic review highlighted that there was no significant difference in the rate of CD between CB and MB. Conclusion: The available evidence was limited and of moderate quality, showing no difference in the rate of CD performed using ceramic and MB. Hence, clinically, there is no difference in using metal or CB, even though CBs are known to have higher SR in in-vitro evaluations.
Pyrexia of Unknown Origin due to Secondary Adrenal Insufficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Syamasis , Chandra Sandip Kumar , Samanta Rajeswar , Goswami Lawni
Published: May 2024

Adrenal insufficiency is a critical condition that can often present with non specific symptoms, posing a diagnostic challenge in the context of co-existing conditions. Authors hereby, report a complex case of secondary adrenal insufficiency revealed through persistent fever and hyponatremia in a 73-year-old female with a multifaceted medical history, including hypertension, diabetes, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Her symptoms of intermittent fever and diarrhoea were refractory to treatment, leading to hospital readmission. Initial laboratory investigations highlighted hyponatremia, low haemoglobin, elevated inflammatory markers, and low cortisol levels. Although a urinary tract infection with multidrug-resistant Klebsiella was identified and treated, her febrile state persisted. Extensive serological testing for a broad range of infectious diseases yielded negative results, excluding infectious etiologies as the cause of her fever. Imaging studies, including chest X-ray, Electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT), and transesophageal echocardiography, failed to identify a source of infection or malignancy. Notably, a low random cortisol level coupled with an inappropriately low Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) level prompted further endocrine evaluation. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed an empty sella turcica, confirming secondary adrenal insufficiency. This diagnosis was substantiated by the patient’s positive response to steroid therapy, which led to clinical improvement and eventual discharge. The present case underlines the importance of considering adrenal insufficiency in patients presenting with unexplained hyponatremia and fever, particularly when other common aetiologies have been ruled out. It also illustrates the potential for critical endocrine disorders to mimic sepsis, underscoring the necessity of a comprehensive diagnostic approach in the face of complex presentations.
Growth and Marketing of Banana in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Velavan C.
Published: May 2024

Banana is an important fruit crop cultivated in India and Tamil Nadu ranks third in production in the country and the area under the banana is also increasing over the years in the state. However, high post-harvest losses were reported in banana due to improper development of marketing channels. Hence, this paper aimed to study marketing of banana and perform stakeholder analysis. Three districts namely Tiruchirappalli, Erode and Coimbatore were selected for the study based on the areaunder banana. The results of the study revealed that the growth rate of area was the highest in Vellore - Tiruvannamalai production centre with 7.75 per cent per annum and production and productivity growth were the highest in Cuddalore-Villupuram production centre with 8.39 and 7.23 per cent per annum respectively. Three banana marketing channels were identified in the study area. Pre- harvest contractor was the popular mode of sale by banana producers. The post-harvest loss of 8.5 to 14.5 kg/tonne was reported in selected banana cultivars. No packing method of banana was followed in the entire marketing channel and one third of market intermediaries did not have storage facility for banana. Hence, the marketing channels of the banana have to be improved on handling, storage and packing to reduce the losses.
Capital Asset Pricing Model: A Renewed Application on S&P 500 Index
Authors: Mutinda John Kamwele , Langat Amos Kipkorir
Published: May 2024

This study employs the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) to analyze the risk-return relationship of a diversified portfolio of nine companies from technology, finance, and health sectors within the S&P 500 index sourced from Yahoo Finance. Utilizing daily stock returns data from January 01, 2019, to December 31, 2023, we estimate beta coefficients and expected returns for each company, shedding light on their performance and risk characteristics. Our findings reveal that technology and finance sector stocks generally exhibit higher beta values and expected returns compared to healthcare sector stocks. Notably, NVIDIA Corporation emerges as the most volatile stock with the highest expected return of 23.095%, reflecting its position in the innovation-driven technology sector. Conversely, healthcare sector stocks demonstrate lower beta values and expected returns. Through an in-depth analysis, we underscore the importance of balancing risk and return in portfolio construction, considering investors’ risk tolerance and objectives. While acknowledging the limitations of CAPM, our study contributes to a deeper understanding of its applicability in portfolio management and asset pricing, providing valuable insights for investors and financial practitioners.
Exploring the Potential Relationship between Malaria Immunity and COVID-19 Protection
Authors: Raham Tareef Fadhil , Hamid Hamid Shehab , Raham Zaher Fadhil
Published: May 2024

Although coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, countries in the equatorial and tropical zones seem to have the lowest figures in terms of incidence and mortality.
Throughout the pandemic, Africa has remained as lowest continent of accumulative cases and deaths.
Since the African region is characterized by a high prevalence of malaria, the lowest number of cases of confirmed COVID-19 attracts scientists to look for possible links between the two diseases. Through this article, we reviewed existing literature concerning a possible explanation between low incidence and less severe COVID-19 in malaria-endemic areas. Different explanations were reviewed including malaria-COVID-19 cross-immunity, population structure, specific receptor’s role, and Vitamin D. The most important factor investigated was malaria immunity through previous exposure (s) which possibly explains these associations.
Study of the Abutment Screw threads of Internal Hexagon and Morse Taper Connection Implants and their loosening after Fatigue Testing
Authors: Siliano Fernanda Marques , Bassoukou Cristine Haralambos , Oliveira Jasiel de , Sendyk Wilson Roberto , Tanaka Marcia Hiromi , Turssi Cecilia Pedroso
Published: May 2024

Aims: To evaluate the length of the thread portion and the distance between the thread pitches of internal hexagon (IH) and morse taper (MT) connection screws and their loosening after fatigue testing.
Methodology: Ten IH and ten MT implants received abutments torqued 20 N.cm. The implant-abutment sets were subjected to fatigue by mechanical cycling. After testing the removal torque of the abutments was measured and the abutments and screws were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy.
Results: Student's t-test showed there was no significant difference between the removal torque values among the groups (p=0.609). The length of the screw thread portion of the IH connection was significantly longer than that of the MT connection (p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups regarding the distance between the threads of the screws.  (p=0.734).
Conclusion: The thread portion of screws in the internal hexagon connection was larger than that of screws in the morse taper connection. However, the distance between thread pitches and the removal torque values under fatigue testing were similar for screws in both types of connections.
Effect of Nano Zinc and Nano Iron on the Vegetative Growth of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda
Authors: Patidar Shubham , Kumar Sandeep , Patidar Kunal
Published: May 2024

In June 2023, the Department of Horticulture at Lovely Professional University in Jalandhar, Punjab conducted a field experiment. The experiment utilized a factorial Randomized Block Design with 9 treatments and 3 replications, covering a total of 27 plants. The experiment ran from June 2023 to December 2023. Regarding the individual effect of nano zinc, it was found that the application of nano zinc at a concentration of 200 ppm resulted in significant increases in various vegetative parameters. The maximum plant height increased by 18.06%, canopy spread increased by 30.16% East to West and 30.31% North to South, canopy volume increased by 121.34%, leaf length increased by 119.25%, leaf width increased by 110.94%, and leaf area increased by 363.27%. However, the increase in stem diameter was not significant compared to other treatments. Similarly, the individual effect of nano iron was also studied. The application of Nano Iron at a concentration of 150 ppm resulted in significant increases in various vegetative parameters. The maximum plant height increased by 17.26%, canopy spread increased by 27.63% East to West and 27.78% North to South, canopy volume increased by 109.42%, leaf length increased by 113.28%, leaf width increased by 107.08%, and leaf area increased by 343.06%. However, the increase in stem diameter was not significant compared to other treatments. The experiment revealed that among various treatment combinations, the application of Nano Zinc @ 200ppm + Nano Iron @ 150ppm (nZn2+nFe2) was observed significantly superior and maximum maximum plant height increased by 19.98%, canopy spread increased by 34.69% East to West and 34.88% North to South, canopy volume increased by 144.72%, leaf length increased by 130.89%, leaf width increased by 120.56% and leaf area increased by 409.25% over other treatments about vegetative parameters except stem diameter compared to other treatments.
Prevalence of Work-Related Repetitive Stress Injuries amongst the Health Care Workers in Large Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Anupama Salam , Singh Oinam Gokulchandra , Alsubaie Mohammed Abdulmohsen , Haq Fayaz Ul , Alanazi Faisal Awadh
Published: May 2024

Aims: To investigate the prevalence of work-related repetitive stress injuries amongst the healthcare professionals in large tertiary care hospital
Materials & Methods:  The study was conducted on 42 healthcare professionals (22 males and 20 females. The participants of the age range between 18 to 65 years.  A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a validated research instrument questionnaire consisting of 52 questions divided into multiple parts. Descriptive statistics were used to explain the demographic characteristics and information regarding the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal work disorders of the respondents. This study was conducted at teaching hospital of Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Mullana, Haryana, India in different department between November, 2018 and April, 2019.
Results: A total of the 42 respondents were returned and properly filled questionnaires. Out of total 42 respondents, 5(11.9%) of the health care workers did not have any work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD).  It is reported that overall 52.3% of the respondents were male and 47.7% were female. It has several strata such as four radiologist, six medical physicians/general physicians; four physiotherapists; seven dentists; nine radiographers; four laboratory technologists; eight nurses respectively. Amongst the health professional workers, dentists were the most prevalence of occurring work related musculoskeletal disorder followed by radiographer, physiotherapist,  radiologist, laboratory technologist, medical physician, and nurse. However, neck pain being the most common affected body region where 5 dentists were recorded. Subsequently, neck pain account to 40.4% amongst the health care workers followed by shoulder pain 23.8%, hand pain 11.9%, lower back pain 7.2% and wrist pain 4.8%.
Conclusion: Based on our study, the finding demonstrated the top three most prevalence occurring musculoskeletal disorder amongst health professional are dentist, radiographer and physiotherapist. Larger sample size would be required in order show an empirical evidence.
Bacillus and Aspergillus Prevalence: an Investigation into the Indoor Microbial Quality of Built Environment at the University of Port Harcourt: Nigeria
Authors: Daokoru-Olukole Chidinma G. , Pondei Juliana O. , Avwerosuoghene Ejiroghene , Fenibo Emmanuel O. , Stanley Herbert O.
Published: May 2024

Background: Inadequate indoor air quality poses significant challenges in school environments, stemming from factors such as overcrowded classrooms, insufficient ventilation, and substandard construction and maintenance practices. Bacterial and fungal contaminants in indoor air present serious health risks.
Methods: This institutional-based cross-sectional study focused on selected learning halls to assess bacterial and fungal loads using the settle plate method. Analysis was accomplished through standard cultural methods. Nutrient agar and Potato Dextrose agar plates were exposed for 15 minutes to capture bacteria and fungi, respectively.
Results: The study revealed a total bacterial load of 8300 CFU/m3 in the morning and 10400 CFU/m3 in the evening. The highest bacterial load occurred at MBS 25 (3200 CFU/m3 in the morning and 3700 CFU/m3 in the evening), while the lowest was recorded at the Arena (310 CFU/m3 in the morning and 990 CFU/m3 in the evening). Similarly, fungal loads varied, with the Arena recording the highest (620 CFU/m3 in the morning and 690 CFU/m3 in the evening) and the Faculty of Science Auditorium the lowest (310 CFU/m3 in the morning and 620 CFU/m3 in the evening). Bacillus spp. dominated among bacterial genera (25.9%), while Aspergillus spp. was the most prevalent fungal genus (41.7%). Other bacterial genera included Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, E. coli, and Pseudomonas, while Penicillium and Candida were among the fungal genera.
Conclusion: Mitigation strategies should target factors such as temperature, occupancy, and humidity to curb bacterial and fungal proliferation in indoor lecture halls, thus safeguarding the health of students and teachers in the University of Port Harcourt and similar educational institutions.
Tunable Colors in Opals and Inverse Opal Photonic Crystals
Authors: Aguirre Carlos I. , Reguera Edilso , Stein Andreas
Published: July 2010

Colloidal photonic crystals and materials derived from colloidal crystals can exhibit distinct structural colors that result from incomplete photonic band gaps. Through rational materials design, the colors of such photonic crystals can be tuned reversibly by external physical and chemical stimuli. Such stimuli include solvent and dye infiltration, applied electric or magnetic fields, mechanical deformation, light irradiation, temperature changes, changes in pH, and specific molecular interactions. Reversible color changes result from alterations in lattice spacings, filling fractions, and refractive index of system components. This review article highlights the different systems and mechanisms for achieving tunable color based on opaline materials with close‐packed or non‐close‐packed structural elements and inverse opal photonic crystals. Inorganic and polymeric systems, such as hydrogels, metallopolymers, and elastomers are discussed.
Experimental investigation of flow regimes of axisymmetric and planar opposed jets
Authors: Li Wei‐Feng , Yao Tian‐Liang , Liu Hai‐Feng , Wang Fu‐Chen
Published: July 2010

Dynamic behaviors of axisymmetric and planar opposed jets have been experimentally studied at 786 < Re < 6288. The flow patterns were investigated by a smoke‐wire technique, and the smoke‐wire photos were recorded by a high‐speed camera. Different flow regimes of axisymmetric and planar opposed jets have been identified. Axisymmetric opposed jets exhibit axial quasi‐periodic oscillations, stagnation point offsets, and steady states, while planar opposed jets exhibit both horizontal instabilities and deflecting oscillations. Effects of the nozzle separation and the exit Reynolds number on the dynamic characteristics of axisymmetric and planar opposed jets have been investigated and discussed. Maps of parameter spaces describing the flow regimes of axisymmetric and planar opposed jets at various nozzle separations and exit Reynolds numbers have been presented. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
Hybrid thermosets from polyisocyanate/water glass/emulsifier systems: Effects of melamine‐formaldehyde resin
Authors: Castellà Núria , Grishchuk Sergiy , Karger‐Kocsis Jozsef , Schehl Martin
Published: July 2010

Melamine‐formaldehyde resin (MF) was selected as potential reactive emulsifier for polyurea‐based thermoset resins produced from polyisocyanate/water glass (WG)/emulsifier systems. As emulsifier tricresylphosphate and/or MF served for the initial water‐in‐oil type (“water” = WG; “oil” = polyisocyanate + emulsifier) emulsions. The MF content of the systems has been varied (≤15 wt %) and its effect on the structure, mechanical, thermal and flammability properties of the final polyurea‐based thermosets studied. It was found that MF is a suitable emulsifier, which can fully replace the phosphate without negatively affecting the properties of the resulting hybrid thermosets. Moreover, hybridization with MF was often accompanied with pronounced improvements in fracture mechanical and static flexural properties. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Polystyrene/vinyl ester resin/styrene thermoplastic elastomer composites: Miscibility, morphology, and mechanical properties
Authors: Gu Jun , Lu Jiaming , Huang Xiancong , Wang Xinling , Zheng Zhen
Published: July 2010

Polystyrene/Styrene‐Ethylene‐Propylene‐Styrene/Vinyl Ester Resin (PS/SEPS/VER) blends used as matrix of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber‐reinforced composites, which included both physical crosslinking points of thermoplastic resin SEPS and chemical crosslinking network of thermosetting resin PS/VER, were prepared by solution blending and hot‐molding. Morphology and mechanical properties of the PS/SEPS/VER composites were investigated in this work. The microstructure of PS/SEPS/VER composites observed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was correlated with mechanical properties. It is worth noting that, stiffness increased sharply with the addition of VER within a certain range. Impact properties verified the structure that the physical crosslinking points of SEPS were immersed in the chemical crosslinking network of PS/VER. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that, incorporation of VER changed the storage modulus and loss tangent. In brief, addition of VER had improved mechanical properties, thermal stability, and fluidity of the composites during processing, indicating a successful result for preparing resin matrix material with outstanding comprehensive performances. Analog map was presented to facilitate better understanding of the special structure of PS/SEPS/VER. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Melt grafting of maleic anhydride onto polypropylene with 1‐decene as a second monomer
Authors: Lei Caihong , Li Shanliang , Chen Dahua , Wu Bo , Huang Weiliang
Published: July 2010

The influence of 1‐decene as the second monomer on the melt‐grafting behavior of maleic anhydride (MAH) onto polypropylene (PP) was studied with differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. We found that the value of the grafting degree increased from 0.68% for pure MAH‐g‐PP to 1.43% for the system with a 1‐decene/MAH molar ratio of 0.3, whereas the maximum value with styrene (St) as the second monomer was 0.98% under an St/MAH molar ratio of 1.0. Compared with the contribution of St/MAH‐g‐PP to the peeling strength between the PP and polyamide (PA) layer for a PP/PA laminated film, the introduction of 1‐decene/MAH‐g‐PP increased the peeling strength from 180 g/15 mm to 250 g/15 mm. 1‐Decene inhibited the chain scission behavior of PP. 1‐Decene reacted with MAH to form a 1‐decene/MAH copolymer or the Alder‐ene reaction product before the two monomers grafted onto PP. The grafting of the reactive product onto PP greatly improved the grafting degree of MAH. What is more, because of the similar chemical structures of 1‐decene and PP, the affinity of 1‐decene with PP was higher than that of St. Compared with St, the introduction of less 1‐decene led to a higher grafting degree and higher peeling strength. Therefore, we concluded that 1‐decene was more effective for improving the grafting degree of MAH onto PP. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Novel grafted nafion membranes for proton‐exchange membrane fuel cell applications
Authors: Eldin M. S. Mohy , Elzatahry A. A. , El‐Khatib K. M. , Hassan E. A. , El‐Sabbah M. M. , Abu‐Saied M. A.
Published: July 2010

Novel poly(glycidyl methacrylate)‐grafted Nafion–phosphoric acid membranes for direct‐oxidation methanol fuel cells were prepared with a potassium persulfate chemical initiation system for the first time. The introduced epoxy groups were converted to amine groups through a reaction with ethylenediamine, which consequently doped with phosphoric acid (PO3H) groups. The latter significantly contributed to enhancing the ion‐exchange capacity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability. Factors affecting the modification steps were studied. Changes in the chemical and morphological structure were verified through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, TGA, and scanning electron microscopy characterization. Various grafting percentages (GP%'s) up to 32.31% were obtained. As a result, the thickness of the grafted membranes increased. Furthermore, the methanol permeability of the modified membranes was reduced with increasing grafted polymer content compared with that of the Nafion membrane. An 83.64% reduction in the methanol permeability was obtained with a polymer grafted content of 18.27%. Finally, the efficiency factor for all of the modified Nafion membranes was enhanced compared with that of Nafion. A fourfold improvement was obtained with membranes with a GP% of 18.27% as a maximum value. Such promising results nominate the used technique as a one for the improvement of Nafion membrane efficiency. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Lymphangiogenesis Is Upregulated in Kidneys of Patients With Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Zimmer Julia K. , Dahdal Suzan , Mühlfeld Christian , Bergmann Ivo P. , Gugger Mathias , Huynh‐Do Uyen
Published: July 2010

Neolymphangiogenesis has recently been demonstrated in transplanted kidneys as well as in chronic interstitial nephritis and IgA nephropathy. However, its significance in kidney disease remains to be defined and a systematic study of renal lymphangiogenesis is warranted. We investigated patients with multiple myeloma (MM) presenting in the great majority with acute renal insufficiency. Controls were allograft kidney donors and patients with renal insufficiency due to acute renal failure (ARF). Lymph vessel length density (LVD) was quantified immunohistochemically by means of antipodoplanin staining followed by computer‐assisted stereology. The mean LVD in kidneys of patients with MM (23.19 mm−2) was higher when compared with allograft donors (7.42 mm−2, P = 0.0003) and patients with ARF (6.78 mm−2, P = 0.0002). The higher LVD was significantly associated with interstitial inflammation, and the newly formed lymph vessels were accompanied by diffuse and nodular interstitial infiltrates composed mainly of CD20+ B cells and CD27+ plasma cells. The infiltrates in patients with MM also displayed a higher expression of the B‐cell chemoattractant CXCL13. These results demonstrate for the first time that lymphangiogenesis is a prominent feature in MM kidneys and that it is associated with a significant accumulation of macrophages, CD20+ and CD27+ B lymphocytes. Further studies should clarify whether these changes represent a beneficial or detrimental factor in the progression of the myeloma‐related kidney damage. Anat Rec 293:1497–1505, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Cytoskeletal Regulator Zyxin is Required for Viability in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Renfranz Patricia J. , Blankman Elizabeth , Beckerle Mary C.
Published: July 2010

The zyxin family of proteins function as cytoskeletal regulators in adhesion, actin assembly, and cell motility. Though fibroblasts derived from zyxin‐null mice show striking defects in motility and response to mechanical stimuli, the mice are viable and fertile. In Drosophila melanogaster, the family is represented by a single homologue, Zyx102. To study the role of zyxin during development, we generated a zyx102 RNA‐interference transgenic line that allows for the conditional knockdown of Zyx102. When UAST‐zyx102‐dsRNAi expression is driven broadly by Actin5C‐GAL4, loss of Zyx102 results in lethality during the pharate adult stage, a narrow developmental window during which the fly must molt, resorb molting fluid, fill adult trachea with air, and execute a behavioral program to eclose. Zyx102 knockdown animals attempt to emerge, but their adult trachea do not fill with air. If dissected from the pupal case, knockdown individuals appear morphologically normal, but remain inviable. Anat Rec 293:1455–1469, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sampled‐data state feedback stabilization of a class of nonlinear systems based on Euler approximation
Authors: Malik Fahad Mumtaz , Malik Mohammad Bilal , Munawar Khalid
Published: July 2010

In this paper, sampled‐data control of locally Lipschitz nonlinear systems is studied. The controller is designed entirely in the discrete‐time domain. The design is based on the approximate discrete‐time model of the continuous‐time system obtained using the Euler method. The analyses of the closed loop system establish trajectory convergence, which implies asymptotic/exponential convergence for arbitrarily small sampling time. The major contribution of this paper is that asymptotic/exponential convergence of the closed loop system is proved under some additional conditions for a sufficiently small but nonzero sampling time. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Explaining adult age differences in decision‐making competence
Authors: Bruine de Bruin Wändi , Parker Andrew M. , Fischhoff Baruch
Published: July 2010

Studies on aging‐related changes in decision making report mixed results. Some decision‐making skills decline with age, while others remain unchanged or improve. Because fluid cognitive ability (e.g., reasoning, problem solving) deteriorates with age, older adults should perform worse on decision‐making tasks that tap fluid cognitive ability. However, performance on some decision‐making tasks may require experience, which increases with age. On those tasks, older adults should perform at least as well as younger adults. These two patterns emerged in correlations between age and component tasks of Adult Decision‐Making Competence (A‐DMC), controlling for demographic variables. First, we found negative relationships between age and performance on two tasks (Resistance to Framing, Applying Decision Rules), which were mediated by fluid cognitive ability. Second, performance on other tasks did not decrease with age (Consistency in Risk Perception, Recognizing Age‐group Social Norms) or improved (Under/Overconfidence, Resistance to Sunk Costs). In multivariate analyses, performance on these tasks showed independent positive relationships to both age and fluid cognitive ability. Because, after controlling for fluid cognitive ability, age becomes a proxy for experience, these results suggest that experience plays no role in performing the first set of tasks, and some role in performing the second set of tasks. Although not all decision‐making tasks showed age‐related declines in performance, older adults perceived themselves as worse decision makers. Self‐ratings of decision‐making competence were related to fluid cognitive ability and to decision‐making skills that decreased with age—but not to decision‐making skills that increased with age. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Big decisions by small networks
Authors: Schuster Stefan
Published: July 2010

The primate brain is able to guide complex decisions that can rapidly be adapted to changing constraints. Unfortunately, the vast numbers of highly interconnected neurons that seem to be needed make it difficult to study the cellular mechanisms that underlie the flexible combination of stored and acute information during a decision. Established simpler networks, particularly with few and identified neurons, would lend themselves more readily to such a dissection. But can simple networks implement complex and flexible decisions similarly? After a brief overview of complex decisions in primates and of decision‐making in simple networks, I argue that simpler systems can combine complexity with accessibility at the cellular level. Indeed, examination of a network in fish may help in dissecting key mechanisms of complex and flexible decision‐making in an established model of synaptic plasticity at the level of identified neurons.
A novel silicon patch‐clamp chip permits high‐fidelity recording of ion channel activity from functionally defined neurons
Authors: Py Christophe , Denhoff Mike W. , Martina Marzia , Monette Robert , Comas Tanya , Ahuja Tarun , Martinez Dolores , Wingar Simon , Caballero Juan , Laframboise Sylvain , Mielke John , Bogdanov Alexei , Luk Collin , Syed Naweed , Mealing Geoff
Published: July 2010

We report on a simple and high‐yield manufacturing process for silicon planar patch‐clamp chips, which allow low capacitance and series resistance from individually identified cultured neurons. Apertures are etched in a high‐quality silicon nitride film on a silicon wafer; wells are opened on the backside of the wafer by wet etching and passivated by a thick deposited silicon dioxide film to reduce the capacitance of the chip and to facilitate the formation of a high‐impedance cell to aperture seal. The chip surface is suitable for culture of neurons over a small orifice in the substrate with minimal leak current. Collectively, these features enable high‐fidelity electrophysiological recording of transmembrane currents resulting from ion channel activity in cultured neurons. Using cultured Lymnaea neurons we demonstrate whole‐cell current recordings obtained from a voltage‐clamp stimulation protocol, and in current‐clamp mode we report action potentials stimulated by membrane depolarization steps. Despite the relatively large size of these neurons, good temporal and spatial control of cell membrane voltage was evident. To our knowledge this is the first report of recording of ion channel activity and action potentials from neurons cultured directly on a planar patch‐clamp chip. This interrogation platform has enormous potential as a novel tool to readily provide high‐information content during pharmaceutical assays to investigate in vitro models of disease, as well as neuronal physiology and synaptic plasticity. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010;107:593–600. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic review of the benefits and risks of neoadjuvant chemoradiation for oesophageal cancer
Authors: Courrech Staal E F W , Aleman B M P , Boot H , van Velthuysen M-L F , van Tinteren H , van Sandick J W
Published: July 2010

Background

Surgery alone for locally advanced oesophageal cancer is associated with low cure rates. The benefits and risks of neoadjuvant chemoradiation for patients with oesophageal cancer were evaluated.

Methods

A systematic review of publications between 2000 and 2008 on neoadjuvant chemoradiation for oesophageal cancer was undertaken.

Results

Thirty-eight papers comprising 3640 patients met the inclusion criteria. Chemoradiation regimens varied widely with a predominance of 5-fluorouracil/cisplatin chemotherapy. Chemoradiation-related toxicity was reported in only ten studies and consisted mainly of neutropenia. The chemoradiation-related mortality rate was 2·3 per cent. The mean R0 resection rate and pathological complete response (pCR) rate were 88·4 and 25·8 per cent respectively. Postoperative morbidity was not uniformly reported. The in-hospital mortality rate after oesophagectomy following chemoradiation was 5·2 per cent. Five-year survival rates varied from 16 to 59 per cent in all patients and from 34 to 62 per cent in those with a pCR. Chemoradiation had a temporary negative effect on quality of life.

Conclusion

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation regimens for oesophageal cancer vary widely. Besides traditional outcome variables (such as survival), other parameters should be analysed (for example toxicity) to assess whether the risks of chemoradiation are sufficiently compensated for by the benefits.
Use of third party information in child custody evaluations
Authors: Bow James N.
Published: July 2010

This article reviews the use of third party information and its potential to increase the accuracy and usefulness of child custody evaluations. Legal and admissibility issues are reviewed, along with the types of third party information commonly utilized. Factors impacting such data sources are discussed, as well as the importance of determining the degree to which independent sources point to the same conclusion. Suggestions are provided for selecting, contacting, and interviewing collateral sources, and ways of assessing, utilizing, and reporting collateral data are described. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accessibility to a parent's psychotherapy records in custody disputes: How can the competing interests be balanced?
Authors: Stansbury Carlton D.
Published: July 2010

One of the issues that commonly arises in custody disputes1 is whether one parent or the court may obtain access to the records of the other parent's mental health treatment.2 The answer to this question varies across jurisdictions given that states do not treat the medical/psychological therapeutic privilege uniformly. These differences demonstrate the competing interests whenever a party's mental health records become an issue in a custody proceeding, and the attempt to balance the interests when the therapeutic privilege is asserted.3 This article will examine the balancing challenge, review the scope and function of the psychotherapist–patient privilege, discuss different states' approaches to the balancing challenge, and propose that preserving the privilege creates the most effective, long‐term balance. The article concludes with strategies on addressing privilege issues in custody cases. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Marital commitment, money and marriage preparation: What changes after the wedding?
Authors: Burgoyne Carole Bourne , Reibstein Janet , Edmunds Anne Mary , Routh David Anthony
Published: July 2010

This paper explores conceptions of commitment and styles of money management in heterosexual couples at two points in time: Just before the wedding (T1) and about a year later (T2). It also examines the potential effects of using FOCCUS as a form of marriage preparation (MP). Forty‐two couples were recruited at T1 and randomly allocated to either A MP group and a group that would not be offered any marriage preparation ‐ the Non‐Marriage Preparation group (NMP). Individual, in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were carried out at T1 and T2, recorded and fully transcribed. A thematic analysis (TA) yielded three themes or levels of commitment which were used to categorize couples at T1 and T2. Their money management styles were defined based on Pahl's (1989) typology. The results showed that conceptions of commitment had developed slightly overall by T2, and had been enhanced in the MP group. At T2, a more elaborated conception of commitment was associated with a greater tendency to treat money as a collective resource. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tuning in and tuning out: media multitasking among young consumers
Authors: Bardhi Fleura , Rohm Andrew J. , Sultan Fareena
Published: July 2010

While commercial media are increasingly attended to in multitasking contexts, advertising research is dominated by sequential marketing communication models where the consumer is a passive receiver of one type of media at a time. This study examine's media multitasking behaviors and experiences among young consumers. Media multitasking is the practice of participating in multiple exposures to two or more commercial media forms at a single point in time, including traditional, online, social, and entertainment media. Prior research argues that multitasking results in diminished comprehension and performance. Through a qualitative approach with a sample of 64 young consumers involving interviews and collages, this study highlights the paradoxical experiences of media multitasking. The authors develop a conceptual model that explains the personal benefits and costs associated with media multitasking, and proposes its impact on consumers' motivation, ability and opportunity (the MAO model) to process commercial media content. Further, the study suggests an inverted‐U relationship between media multitasking and the MAO model and proposes four behavioral coping moderators to this relationship.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.