bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Low‐Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on Distraction Osteogenesis Treatment Time
Authors: Raza Hasnain , Saltaji Humam , Kaur Harmanpreet , Flores-Mir Carlos , El-Bialy Tarek
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The objectives of this systematic review with a meta‐analysis were to critically analyze the available scientific literature regarding the effects of low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (US) on stimulating bone regeneration and bone maturation during distraction osteogenesis in humans and to determine whether the stimulatory effect of low‐intensity pulsed US can effectively reduce the associated treatment time.

Methods

Studies were considered for inclusion if they were randomized clinical trials that examined the effect of low‐intensity pulsed US on distraction osteogenesis compared to conventional distraction osteogenesis. The primary outcome was reduced treatment time. Study selection, risk of bias assessment, and data extraction were performed in duplicate. A random‐effects meta‐analysis model was used when more than 3 trials were eligible for a quantitative analysis and considering the expected differences in interventions and measurement tools.

Results

Five randomized clinical trials, with a moderate to high risk of bias, met the eligibility criteria. Four trials examining tibial distraction osteogenesis in 118 patients were combined in a meta‐analysis. A statistically significant difference for reduced treatment time between distraction osteogenesis with low‐intensity pulsed US and standard distraction osteogenesis was evident (mean difference, −15.236 d/cm; random‐effects 95% confidence interval, −19.902 to −10.569 d/cm; P < .0001). As for the mandible, only 1 clinical trial was available, which showed no significant effect of low‐intensity pulsed US therapy on distraction osteogenesis.

Conclusions

Current available evidence suggests that low‐intensity pulsed US therapy may provide a reduction in the overall treatment time for tibial distraction osteogenesis. However, this conclusion should be considered with caution, given the moderate to high risk of bias in the included randomized clinical trials.
Sonographic Findings of Morbidly Adherent Placenta in the First Trimester
Authors: Rac Martha W. F. , Moschos Elysia , Wells C. Edward , McIntire Donald D. , Dashe Jodi S. , Twickler Diane M.
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between first‐trimester sonographic findings and morbidly adherent placenta at delivery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of all first‐trimester sonographic examinations from pregnancies that underwent third‐trimester sonography for placenta previa or low‐lying placenta between September 1997 and October 2011. Only women with a prior cesarean delivery were included. Transabdominal and transvaginal images from these first‐trimester studies were reviewed for the following sonographic parameters: distance from the inferior border of the gestational sac to the external cervical os, location of the decidua basalis, presence of anechoic areas, uterine‐bladder interface irregularity, and smallest anterior myometrial thickness. Morbidly adherent placentation was confirmed on histologic examination of hysterectomy specimens. Statistical methods included univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients met inclusion criteria, of whom 14 (36%) had confirmed placental invasion. The number of prior cesarean deliveries was significantly associated with placental invasion (P < .0001). The only first‐trimester sonographic finding associated with invasion was the smallest anterior myometrial thickness measured in the sagittal plane (P< .02). Multivariate analysis based on these two variables yielded an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.94 (95% confidence interval, 0.87–1.00) and significantly improved the prediction of placental invasion compared to using the number of prior cesarean deliveries alone.

Conclusions

In women with persistent placenta previa or low‐lying placenta and prior cesarean delivery, the smallest anterior myometrial thickness on first‐trimester sonography significantly improved detection of morbidly adherent placenta.
How Does Subclinical Hyperthyroidism Affect Right Heart Function and Mechanics?
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Celic Vera , Cuspidi Cesare , Ilic Sanja , Zivanovic Vladimir , Marjanovic Tamara
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Right heart function and mechanics have not been investigated in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Our aim was to investigate right ventricular (RV) and right atrial (RA) function and deformation as evaluated by 3‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE) and speckle‐tracking 2‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE) in these individuals.

Methods

We included 39 untreated women with endogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism and 39 healthy women matched by age. All participants underwent laboratory analyses that included thyroid hormone levels and comprehensive 2DE and 3DE examinations.

Results

Three‐dimensional echocardiographic RV volumes were significantly elevated in the patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism (P < .05), whereas the 3DE RV ejection fraction was reduced in this group, but with borderline significance. Two‐dimensional echocardiographic longitudinal RV and RA strain were significantly reduced in the patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism. Two‐dimensional echocardiographic RV systolic and early diastolic strain rates were reduced, whereas late diastolic strain rates were increased in the patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism. The same changes were detected in RA mechanics among the patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism. The thyrotropin (TSH) level correlated with the left ventricular mass index, transmitral early diastolic peak flow velocity (E)/late diastolic flow velocity (A) ratio, tricuspid E/A ratio, 2DE RV global strain, 2DE RA, strain, and 3DE RV end‐diastolic volume. A multivariate regression analysis showed that the mitral E/A ratio, 2DE RV global strain, and 3DE RV end‐diastolic volume were independently associated with the TSH level.

Conclusions

Right ventricular and RA function as evaluated by 3DE and speckle‐tracking 2DE is significantly impaired in patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism. The TSH level correlated with parameters for RV function and mechanics in the whole study population.
Application of Quasistatic Ultrasound Elastography for Examination of Scrotal Lesions
Authors: Zeng Bidan , Chen Fei , Qiu Shaodong , Luo Yanhua , Zhu Zhimin , Chen Rui , Mao Lin
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The aims of this study were to investigate the value of applying quasistatic ultrasound elastography for examination of scrotal lesions, to investigate the features of normal testes on quasistatic elastography, and to establish whether testicular and epididymal lesions had specific quasistatic elastographic features.

Methods

We screened 1073 patients who underwent color Doppler sonographic examinations of the testes and epididymides in our hospital and performed quasistatic elastography to evaluate their sonographic features. Measurement data were expressed as mean ± SD. For intergroup comparisons, we used paired t tests and independent‐samples t tests, with P < .05 considered significant.

Results

Quasistatic elastography did not reveal any testicular or epididymal abnormalities in 625 cases. Seven cases showed testicular torsion; 3 cases showed testicular space‐occupying lesions (1 case each of a testicular teratoma, testicular seminoma, and testicular endodermal sinus tumor); 176 cases showed epididymal lesions (138 cases of caudal epididymal inflammatory masses, 37 cases of caput epididymal cysts, and 1 case of an epididymal lymphangioma); and 262 cases showed varicocele. The normal testicular elastographic appearance showed a 3‐ring structure: red surrounding bands with a blue edge region and a green central area. The stiffness in cases of testicular torsion, testicular space‐occupying lesions, and epididymal lesions was increased, whereas caput epididymal cysts of different diameters appeared either as green, blue‐green‐red, or “scooped out.” Elastographic results for patients with varicocele were not different from those for normal testes.

Conclusions

Quasistatic elastography can reflect the relative stiffness of the testis and its surrounding tissues, thus providing a novel, reliable, convenient, and noninvasive method for clinical detection of testicular stiffness and related pathologic changes.
Role of Sonography in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Peroneal Neuropathy Secondary to Fabellae
Authors: Cesmebasi Alper , Spinner Robert J. , Smith Jay , Bannar Stephen M. , Finnoff Jonathan T.
Published: January 2016

The fabella is a sesamoid bone situated in the posterolateral knee, which may contribute to posterolateral knee pain by impinging on the adjacent common peroneal nerve (CPN). Although anatomic studies have established an relationship between the fabella and CPN, we present 4 cases of posterolateral knee pain radiating into the anterolateral leg in which sonography was able to determine the source of the pain as CPN compression by an adjacent fabella. In 2 of these cases, resolution of symptoms was achieved with ultrasound‐guided CPN blocks, whereas 1 case was surgically treated, and another was managed with oral analgesics. These cases illustrate the utility of diagnostic and interventional sonography in the evaluation and treatment of posterolateral knee pain secondary to fabellar impingement of the CPN.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Effect in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cui Jin , Chen Cheng , Han Junbo , Cao Kun , Zhang Wenjun , Shen Yan , Wang Mingkui
Published: January 2016

This work reports on incorporation of spectrally tuned gold/silica (Au/SiO2) core/shell nanospheres and nanorods into the inverted perovskite solar cells (PVSC). The band gap of hybrid lead halide iodide (CH3NH3PbI3) can be gradually increased by replacing iodide with increasing amounts of bromide, which can not only offer an appreciate solar radiation window for the surface plasmon resonance effect utilization, but also potentially result in a large open circuit voltage. The introduction of localized surface plasmons in CH3NH3PbI2.85Br0.15‐based photovoltaic system, which occur in response to electromagnetic radiation, has shown dramatic enhancement of exciton dissociation. The synchronized improvement in photovoltage and photocurrent leads to an inverted CH3NH3PbI2.85Br0.15 planar PVSC device with power conversion efficiency of 13.7%. The spectral response characterization, time resolved photoluminescence, and transient photovoltage decay measurements highlight the efficient and simple method for perovskite devices.
A comparison of opioid use between WCB recipients and other Manitobans for knee, shoulder, back and carpal tunnel release procedures
Authors: Kraut Allen , Raymond Colette B. , Ekuma Okechukwu , Shafer Leigh Anne
Published: January 2016

Background

This study's objectives were to evaluate whether WCB claimants with conditions requiring certain surgical procedures are more likely to be prescribed outpatient opioids than other Manitobans and whether those prescribed opioids are more likely to still be on opioid medications 6 months post procedure.

Methods

We compared 7,246 WCB claims for a number of surgical procedures to 65,032 similar procedures performed in other Manitobans. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between being a WCB claimant and being prescribed opioids, while controlling for type of surgical procedure and other potential confounders.

Results

WCB claimants were more likely than other Manitobans to be prescribed opioids (adjusted OR 1.38; 95%CI 1.30–1.47). Amongst those prescribed opioids, the odds of being still on opioids 6 months post‐procedure were not significantly elevated for WCB claimants (adjusted OR 1.09 95%CI 0.97–1.23).

Conclusions

WCB claimants are prescribed opioids more often than non‐claimants for similar procedures. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:257–263, 2016. © 2016 The Authors. American Journal of Industrial Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unreported workers’ compensation claims to the BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses: Establishment factors
Authors: Wuellner Sara E. , Adams Darrin A. , Bonauto David K.
Published: January 2016

Background

Studies suggest employers underreport injuries to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII); less is known about reporting differences by establishment characteristics.

Methods

We linked SOII data to Washington State workers’ compensation claims data, using unemployment insurance data to improve linking accuracy. We used multivariable regression models to estimate incidence ratios (IR) of unreported workers’ compensation claims for establishment characteristics.

Results

An estimated 70% of workers’ compensation claims were reported in SOII. Claims among state and local government establishments were most likely to be reported. Compared to large manufacturing establishments, unreported claims were most common among small educational services establishments (IR = 2.47, 95%CI: 1.52–4.01) and large construction establishments (IR = 2.05, 95%CI: 1.77–2.37).

Conclusions

Underreporting of workers’ compensation claims to SOII varies by establishment characteristics, obscuring true differences in work injury incidence. Findings may differ from previous research due to differences in study methods. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:274–289, 2016. © 2016 The Authors. American Journal of Industrial Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patients' ratings of genetic conditions validate a taxonomy to simplify decisions about preconception carrier screening via genome sequencing
Authors: Leo Michael C. , McMullen Carmit , Wilfond Benjamin S. , Lynch Frances L. , Reiss Jacob A. , Gilmore Marian J. , Himes Patricia , Kauffman Tia L. , Davis James V. , Jarvik Gail P. , Berg Jonathan S. , Harding Cary , Kennedy Kathleen A. , Simpson Dana Kostiner , Quigley Denise I. , Richards C. Sue , Rope Alan F. , Goddard Katrina A. B.
Published: January 2016

Advances in genome sequencing and gene discovery have created opportunities to efficiently assess more genetic conditions than ever before. Given the large number of conditions that can be screened, the implementation of expanded carrier screening using genome sequencing will require practical methods of simplifying decisions about the conditions for which patients want to be screened. One method to simplify decision making is to generate a taxonomy based on expert judgment. However, expert perceptions of condition attributes used to classify these conditions may differ from those used by patients. To understand whether expert and patient perceptions differ, we asked women who had received preconception genetic carrier screening in the last 3 years to fill out a survey to rate the attributes (predictability, controllability, visibility, and severity) of several autosomal recessive or X‐linked genetic conditions. These conditions were classified into one of five taxonomy categories developed by subject experts (significantly shortened lifespan, serious medical problems, mild medical problems, unpredictable medical outcomes, and adult‐onset conditions). A total of 193 women provided 739 usable ratings across 20 conditions. The mean ratings and correlations demonstrated that participants made distinctions across both attributes and categories. Aggregated mean attribute ratings across categories demonstrated logical consistency between the key features of each attribute and category, although participants perceived little difference between the mild and serious categories. This study provides empirical evidence for the validity of our proposed taxonomy, which will simplify patient decisions for results they would like to receive from preconception carrier screening via genome sequencing. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel IFT122 mutations in three Argentinian patients with cranioectodermal dysplasia: Expanding the mutational spectrum
Authors: Moosa Shahida , Obregon Maria Gabriela , Altmüller Janine , Thiele Holger , Nürnberg Peter , Fano Virginia , Wollnik Bernd
Published: January 2016

Cranioectodermal dysplasia (CED), also known as Sensenbrenner syndrome, is an autosomal recessive ciliary chondrodysplasia characterized by a recognizable craniofacial gestalt, skeletal abnormalities, and ectodermal features. To date, four genes have been shown to underlie the syndrome, namely, IFT122 (WDR10), WDR35 (IFT121), IFT43 (C14orf179), and WDR19 (IFT144). Clinical characterization of a larger cohort of patients with CED has been undertaken previously. Nevertheless, there are too few molecularly confirmed patients reported in the literature to determine precise genotype–phenotype correlations. To date, biallelic IFT122 mutations have been described in only five families. We therefore studied three unrelated Argentinian patients with typical features of CED using a 4813 next‐generation sequencing (NGS) gene panel, which we call the “Mendeliome.” The three patients had different, novel, compound heterozygous mutations in IFT122. Consequently, we compared these three patients to those previously described with IFT122 mutations. Thus, our report serves to add 6 novel mutations to the IFT122 mutation spectrum and to contribute to the IFT122‐related clinical characterization. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Active‐Site Modification and Quaternary Structure on the Regioselectivity of Catechol‐O‐Methyltransferase
Authors: Law Brian J. C. , Bennett Matthew R. , Thompson Mark L. , Levy Colin , Shepherd Sarah A. , Leys David , Micklefield Jason
Published: January 2016

Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT), an important therapeutic target in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, is also being developed for biocatalytic processes, including vanillin production, although lack of regioselectivity has precluded its more widespread application. By using structural and mechanistic information, regiocomplementary COMT variants were engineered that deliver either meta‐ or para‐methylated catechols. X‐ray crystallography further revealed how the active‐site residues and quaternary structure govern regioselectivity. Finally, analogues of AdoMet are accepted by the regiocomplementary COMT mutants and can be used to prepare alkylated catechols, including ethyl vanillin.
A Theranostic Agent Combining a Two‐Photon‐Absorbing Photosensitizer for Photodynamic Therapy and a Gadolinium(III) Complex for MRI Detection
Authors: Schmitt Julie , Heitz Valérie , Sour Angélique , Bolze Frédéric , Kessler Pascal , Flamigni Lucia , Ventura Barbara , Bonnet Célia S. , Tóth Éva
Published: January 2016

The convergent synthesis and characterization of a potential theranostic agent, [DPP‐ZnP‐GdDOTA]−, which combines a diketopyrrolopyrrole‐porphyrin component DPP‐ZnP as a two‐photon photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT) with a gadolinium(III) DOTA complex as a magnetic resonance imaging probe, is presented. [DPP‐ZnP‐GdDOTA]− has a remarkably high longitudinal water proton relaxivity (19.94 mm−1 s−1 at 20 MHz and 25 °C) for a monohydrated molecular system of this size. The Nuclear Magnetic Relaxation Dispersion (NMRD) profile is characteristic of slow rotation, related to the extended and rigid aromatic units integrated in the molecule and to self‐aggregation occurring in aqueous solution. The two‐photon properties were examined and large two‐photon absorption cross‐sections around 1000 GM were determined between 910 and 940 nm in DCM with 1 % pyridine and in DMSO. Furthermore, the new conjugate was able to generate singlet oxygen, with quantum yield of 0.42 and 0.68 in DCM with 1 % pyridine and DMSO, respectively. Cellular studies were also performed. The [DPP‐ZnP‐GdDOTA]− conjugate demonstrated low dark toxicity and was able to induce high one‐photon and moderate two‐photon phototoxicity on cancer cells.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of 3d Transition‐Metal–1,2,4‐Triazole Complexes as Precursors for Microwave‐Assisted and Thermal Conversion to Coordination Polymers with a High Influence on the Dielectric Properties
Authors: Brede Franziska A. , Heine Johanna , Sextl Gerhard , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus
Published: January 2016

The complexes [MCl2(TzH)4] (M=Mn (1), Fe (2); TzH=1,2,4‐1H‐triazole) and [ZnCl2(TzH)2] (3) have been obtained by mechanochemical reactions of the corresponding divalent metal chloride and 1,2,4‐1H‐triazole. They were successfully used as precursors for the formation of coordination polymers either by a microwave‐assisted reaction or by thermal conversion. For manganese, the conversion directly yielded
[MnCl2TzH] (4), whereas for the iron‐containing precursor,
[FeCl2TzH] (6), was formed via the intermediate coordination polymer
[FeCl(TzH)2]Cl (5). For cobalt, the isotypic polymer
[CoCl(TzH)2]Cl (7) was obtained, but exclusively by a microwave‐induced reaction directly from CoCl2. The crystal structures were resolved from single crystals and powders. The dielectric properties were determined and revealed large differences in permittivity between the precursor complexes and the rigid chain‐like coordination polymers. Whereas the monomeric complexes exhibit very different dielectric behaviour, depending on the transition metal, from “low‐k” to “high‐k” with the permittivity ranging from 4.3 to >100 for frequencies of up to 1000 Hz, the coordination polymers and complexes with strong intermolecular interactions are all close to “low‐k” materials with very low dielectric constants up to 50 °C. Therefore, the conversion procedures can be used to deliberately influence the dielectric properties from complex to polymer and for different 3d transition‐metal ions.
Large‐Scale Synthesis of Helicene‐Like Molecules for the Design of Enantiopure Thin Films with Strong Chiroptical Activity
Authors: Bensalah‐Ledoux Amina , Pitrat Delphine , Reynaldo Thibault , Srebro‐Hooper Monika , Moore Barry , Autschbach Jochen , Crassous Jeanne , Guy Stéphan , Guy Laure
Published: January 2016

Helicenes are fascinating molecules owing to their unusual properties and applications in many fields from catalysis to organic electronics. Herein, we report a straightforward pathway for the synthesis of helicene‐like molecules on a gram scale in an enantiopure form. Thin‐film materials with good propagating optical properties and very high chiroptical responses have been grown by using pulsed laser ablation without altering the structure or the enantiopurity of the molecules. Moreover, electronic and vibrational circular dichroism spectroscopies coupled with theoretical calculations enabled some dependences of the chiroptical properties with the structure to be highlighted, for example, effects of rigidification, aromatization, or the state of matter (liquid versus solid).
Poly(trimethylene carbonate)/Poly(malic acid) Amphiphilic Diblock Copolymers as Biocompatible Nanoparticles
Authors: Barouti Ghislaine , Khalil Ali , Orione Clement , Jarnouen Kathleen , Cammas‐Marion Sandrine , Loyer Pascal , Guillaume Sophie M.
Published: January 2016

Amphiphilic polycarbonate–poly(hydroxyalkanoate) diblock copolymers, namely, poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC)‐b‐poly(β‐malic acid) (PMLA), are reported for the first time. The synthetic strategy relies on commercially available catalysts and initiator. The controlled ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of trimethylene carbonate (TMC) catalyzed by the organic guanidine base 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD), associated with iPrOH as an initiator, provided iPrO−PTMC−OH, which served as a macroinitiator in the controlled ROP of benzyl β‐malolactonate (MLABe) catalyzed by the neodymium triflate salt (Nd(OTf)3). The resulting hydrophobic iPrO−PTMC‐b‐PMLABe−OH copolymers were then hydrogenolyzed into the parent iPrO−PTMC‐b‐PMLA−OH copolymers. A range of well‐defined copolymers, featuring different sizes of segments (Mn,NMR up to 9300 g mol−1; ÐM=1.28–1.40), were thus isolated in gram quantities, as evidenced by NMR spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and contact angle analyses. Subsequently, PTMC‐b‐PMLA copolymers with different hydrophilic weight fractions (11–75 %) self‐assembled in phosphate‐buffered saline upon nanoprecipitation into well‐defined nano‐objects with Dh=61–176 nm, a polydispersity index <0.25, and a negative surface charge, as characterized by dynamic light scattering and zeta‐potential analyses. In addition, these nanoparticles demonstrated no significant effect on cell viability at low concentrations, and a very low cytotoxicity at high concentrations only for PTMC‐b‐PMLA copolymers exhibiting hydrophilic fractions over 47 %, thus illustrating the potential of these copolymers as promising nanoparticles.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 5‐Aryl‐2‐hydroxy‐2‐(trifluoromethyl)furan‐3(2H)‐ones and Their Reactions with Aromatic 1,2‐Diamines, Hydrazine and Hydroxylamine.
Authors: Safrygin Alexander V. , Irgashev Roman A. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Roeschenthaler Gerd‐Volker , Sosnovskikh Vyacheslav Y.
Published: January 2016

A convenient two‐step synthesis of two title substrate (IV) starting from acetophenones is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Two‐Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides as Atomically Thin Semiconductors: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Duan Xidong , Wang Chen , Pan Anlian , Yu Ruqin , Duan Xiangfeng
Published: January 2016

Review: 88 refs.
Steam reforming of ethanol over mesoporous Rh/CeZrO2: Mechanistic evaluation using in situ DRIFT spectroscopy
Authors: Sharma Pankaj Kumar , Saxena Navin , Bind Vimlesh Kumar , Roy Prasun Kumar , Bhatt Arti
Published: January 2016

Mesoporous CeZrO2support was prepared by a homogeneous urea coprecipitation route and loaded with 0.05 g/g (5 wt%) Rh2O3to prepare supported Rh/CeZrO2catalyst. The mesoporous nature of the catalyst was confirmed by N2adsorption‐desorption studies, which revealed a type IV isotherm with a characteristic H2 hysteresis. Rh impregnation led to a decrease in the BET surface area and an increase in the CO uptake, as established by pulse chemisorption studies. Temperature‐programmed reduction (TPR) studies revealed significant alteration in the reducibility of the support due to introduction of the active metal. Catalytic ethanol steam reforming (ESR) over the supported catalyst was performed in a tubular microreactor under varying temperatures and space velocities at a constant ethanol‐to‐water ratio of 1:6. Increasing the temperature was found to positively influence both the conversion and hydrogen selectivity. Mesoporous Rh/CeZrO2catalyst exhibited almost complete ethanol conversion and 62.9 % H2selectivity at 600 °C and 0.3 mL · min−1flow rate. The nature of intermediate species and products formed during ethanol steam reforming was established using in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), which brought out the significant role of Rh toward aiding ethanol decomposition. Based on these studies, a plausible mechanism for catalytic ethanol steam reforming over Rh/CeZrO2was proposed. Time‐on‐stream studies revealed the excellent stability of the catalyst over extended periods. Detailed investigations of the spent catalyst revealed the amorphous nature of coke formed on the surface of the catalyst post‐reforming.
How to Train Experienced Therapists in a New Method: A Qualitative Study into Therapists' Views
Authors: ten Napel‐Schutz Marieke C. , Abma Tineke A. , Bamelis Lotte L. M. , Arntz Arnoud
Published: January 2016

Background

Implementation of new effective treatments involves training, supervision and quality control of therapists, who are used to utilize other methods. Not much is known about therapists' views on how new psychotherapy methods should be taught.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to get insight in how experienced therapists experience the training in a new method so that training methods for experienced therapists can be improved.

Method

Qualitative research using focus groups. For an RCT on the effectiveness of schema therapy (ST) for six personality disorders more than 80 therapists were trained in ST. They applied the ST‐protocol after 4‐day training, with peer supervision and limited expert supervision. Sixteen of these trained ST therapists from seven health institutions participated in the focus groups. The transcripts and records of the focus groups were analyzed on repeating themes and subthemes and in terms of higher order categories.

Results

Therapists appreciated didactical learning methods but particularly valued experiential learning. Especially, novice ST therapists missed role plays, feedback to learn required skills and attitudes, and attention to their resistance to new techniques (e.g., empathic confrontation and imagery). Peer supervision gave emotional recognition, but therapists lacked regular advice from an ST‐expert.

Conclusions

In teaching a new therapeutic method didactic teaching is necessary, but experiential learning is decisive. Experiential learning includes practicing the new therapy and reflecting on one's experiences, including resistance against new methods. Emphatic confrontation, case conceptualization, role play, peer supervision and opportunities to ask an expert supervisor during peer supervision are found to be helpful. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Especially by Eperiential learning besides didactic learning.

By practicing with many role plays including feedback.

By reflecting on one's experiences including resistance against ingredients of the new method.

By peer supervision with opportunities to ask an expert supervisor.
Growth of boron nitride films on w‐AlN (0001), 4° off‐cut 4H‐SiC (0001), W (110) and Cr (110) substrates by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Coudurier Nicolas , Chubarov Mikhail , Boichot Raphaël , Mercier Fréderic , Blanquet Elisabeth , Reboud Roman , Lay Sabine , Crisci Alexandre , Coindeau Stéphane , Encinas Thierry , Pons Michel
Published: January 2016

Boron Nitride is a promising group 13–group 15 compound material that exhibits various interesting properties like wide band gap, chemical stability, attractive mechanical properties and other. The growth behavior of this material has not been investigated in sufficient details to tailor properties of the resulting films. In this work we present the results on the growth of turbostratic boron nitride (t‐BN) thin films at a relatively high growth rate of 3 μm/h with the aim to investigate the potential use of boron trichloride in combination with ammonia as precursors for growth. Deposition experiments were conducted in a vertical cold wall high temperature chemical vapor deposition reactor in the temperature range 1000°C–1700°C depending on the substrate used. Templates of w‐AlN (0001), 4° off‐cut 4H‐SiC (0001), Cr (110) and W (110) were employed as substrates for the BN growth. As‐grown BN layers were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, X‐Ray Diffraction, Electron Diffraction and Raman Spectroscopy. The results indicate that temperature and N/B ratio have a great influence on the crystallinity of the deposited films. For AlN and SiC substrates, a temperature of 1600°C and N/B ratio in range between 3 and 7.5 were identified as the best parameters for the growth of a 2 μm thick t‐BN layer with a spacing between basal planes of about 3.36 Å compare to the 3.33 Å spacing between basal planes of hexagonal or rhombohedral BN (h‐BN or r‐BN). For Cr and W substrates which have a lower mismatch with h‐BN (1 and 8.8 %), layers of t‐BN were deposited at much lower temperature (1000°C–1150°C) with a spacing between basal planes of 3.5 Å and morphology similar to that observed on SiC substrates. We obtained t‐BN layers with in plane strong disorder but out of plane orientation (c‐axis normal to the surface).
Vaccination with a co‐expression DNA plasmid containing GAD65 fragment gene and IL‐10 gene induces regulatory CD4+ T cells that prevent experimental autoimmune diabetes
Authors: Liu Xinyuan , Zhang Song , Li Xia , Zheng Peilin , Hu Fang , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: January 2016

Background

The non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mouse is a commonly used animal model for studying type 1 diabetes (T1D). The aims of our study were to explore the diabetes‐preventive effect in NOD mice and the potential mechanisms of an optimized co‐expression DNA vaccine containing GAD65 fragment gene with the IL‐10 gene (SGAD65190‐315/IL‐10).

Methods

Female NOD mice at the age of 3–4 weeks old were randomly divided into two groups and received intra‐muscular injection of either blank pBudCE4.l vector (n = 34) or pBudCE4.l carrying the SGAD65190‐315/IL‐10 (n = 32). The incidence of diabetes was monitored up to 30 weeks of age. The severity of insulitis, apoptosis rate of β cells and relevant mechanisms were examined.

Results

Administration with SGAD65190‐315/IL‐10 blocked the onset of autoimmune diabetes in NOD mice, significantly suppressed islet inflammation, inhibited the apoptosis of islet β cells, induced immune tolerance to autoantigen GAD65 and proinsulin and shifted the Th1/Th2 balance towards Th2. More importantly, the frequencies of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the spleen and pancreatic lymph nodes in vaccine‐immunized mice were significantly increased, and these Tregs were GAD65‐reactive. In addition, Treg depletion by anti‐CD25 mAb administration abolished the protective effects of SGAD65190‐315/IL‐10 on diabetes and insulitis. Moreover, depletion of CD4+CD25+ T cells using magnetic‐activated cell sorting impaired the protective effect of SGAD65190‐315/IL‐10 vaccination on adoptive transfer of diabetes.

Conclusions

Our data suggested that SGAD65190‐315/IL‐10 DNA vaccine had protective effects on T1D by upregulating autoantigen‐reactive Tregs. Our findings may provide a novel preventive therapy for T1D. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of adapted interpersonal psychotherapy versus health education on mood and eating in the laboratory among adolescent girls with loss of control eating
Authors: Tanofsky‐Kraff Marian , Crosby Ross D. , Vannucci Anna , Kozlosky Merel , Shomaker Lauren B. , Brady Sheila M. , Sbrocco Tracy , Pickworth Courtney K. , Stephens Mark , Young Jami F. , Olsen Cara H. , Kelly Nichole R. , Radin Rachel , Cassidy Omni , Wilfley Denise E. , Reynolds James C. , Yanovski Jack A.
Published: January 2016

Objective

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is aimed at improving negative affect that is purported to contribute to the development and maintenance of loss‐of‐control (LOC) eating. Although youth who report LOC over eating tend to consume more snack‐foods than those without LOC, it is unknown if IPT impacts objective energy intake.

Methods

To test if IPT improves mood and eating in the laboratory, we examined a sample of 88 girls with LOC eating who were randomized to either IPT (n = 46) or a standard‐of‐care health education (HE) group program. At baseline, and 6‐month (follow‐up 1) and 1‐year (follow‐up 2) following the initiation of the groups, girls consumed lunch from a multi‐item meal with an instruction designed to model a LOC episode. Girls also reported mood state immediately before each meal.

Results

Girls in IPT experienced no significant changes in pre‐meal state depressive affect, while girls in HE experienced a non‐significant improvement by follow‐up 1 and then returned to baseline by follow‐up 2 (p < .04). We found no significant group difference for changes in total intake relative to girls' daily energy needs (p's ≥ .25). However, IPT reduced, while HE increased, the percentage of daily energy needs consumed from snack‐foods by follow‐up 2 (p = .04). Within‐groups, HE increased their snack food intake from follow‐up 1 to follow‐up 2 (p = .01).

Conclusions

In adolescent girls with LOC, IPT did not change total intake at the test meal and was associated with reduced snack‐food intake. Data are required to determine if IPT effectively prevents excess weight gain in the longer‐term. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:490–498)
A conserved pattern in plant‐mediated interactions between herbivores
Authors: Lu Jing , Robert Christelle A. M. , Lou Yonggen , Erb Matthias
Published: January 2016

Plant‐mediated interactions between herbivores are important determinants of community structure and plant performance in natural and agricultural systems. Current research suggests that the outcome of the interactions is determined by herbivore and plant identity, which may result in stochastic patterns that impede adaptive evolution and agricultural exploitation. However, few studies have systemically investigated specificity versus general patterns in a given plant system by varying the identity of all involved players. We investigated the influence of herbivore identity and plant genotype on the interaction between leaf‐chewing and root‐feeding herbivores in maize using a partial factorial design. We assessed the influence of leaf induction by oral secretions of six different chewing herbivores on the response of nine different maize genotypes and three different root feeders. Contrary to our expectations, we found a highly conserved pattern across all three dimensions of specificity: The majority of leaf herbivores elicited a negative behavioral response from the different root feeders in the large majority of tested plant genotypes. No facilitation was observed in any of the treatment combinations. However, the oral secretions of one leaf feeder and the responses of two maize genotypes did not elicit a response from a root‐feeding herbivore. Together, these results suggest that plant‐mediated interactions in the investigated system follow a general pattern, but that a degree of specificity is nevertheless present. Our study shows that within a given plant species, plant‐mediated interactions between herbivores of the same feeding guild can be stable. This stability opens up the possibility of adaptations by associated organisms and suggests that plant‐mediated interactions may contribute more strongly to evolutionary dynamics in terrestrial (agro)ecosystems than previously assumed.
DNA barcoding sheds light on hidden subterranean boundary between Adriatic and Danubian drainage basins
Authors: Konec Marjeta , Delić Teo , Trontelj Peter
Published: January 2016

In principle, the distribution of freshwater fauna follows the extent of drainage basins, but various historical and concurrent factors weaken this correspondence. Subterranean karstic drainages can be particularly baffling as their boundaries are decoupled from the surface relief and change with the level of the karstic groundwater. We explored how the distribution and genetic structure of cave fauna correlate to data obtained by conventional groundwater tracers in the Danubian–Adriatic divide in the classical Karst between Postojna and Trieste. Here, waters from the Pivka Polje drain to either basin, depending on the water level. This ambiguity is reflected by the distribution of several aquatic cave species that disperse from one drainage to the other. However, using DNA barcoding methods, we found a clear‐cut separation between the closely related subterranean aquatic isopods Asellus aquaticus on the Danubian and Asellus kosswigi on the Adriatic side. The boundary between them agrees with the established hydrology at normal water levels. Further phylogeographic and demographic analyses suggest that the superficial concurrent correspondence has a deeper historical component. We inferred that the Adriatic species did not reach its present boundary by recent range dispersal, but rather has remained there as relict from Pleistocene times. Today, dispersal from the lower part of the Adriatic (Reka River) drainage is impossible because of the large altitudinal difference within. These results demonstrate that biological and particularly genetic groundwater tracing have the advantage of being sensitive to both historical and contemporary groundwater connectivity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Re‐evaluation of Sn(II)‐Br− Speciation in Concentrated Bromide Media by Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Park Dasom , Chang Jinho
Published: January 2016

We report re‐evaluated Sn(II)‐Br− speciation by cyclic voltammetry on a glassy carbon (GC) electrode in concentrated Br− aqueous solutions. Contrary to the previous reports, electrochemical evidences of Sn(II)Br53−, Sn(II)Br64−, Sn(II)Br75−, and Sn(II)Br86− were found in aqueous solutions containing different Br− concentrations with ionic strength, I=6. Formation constants βj of Sn(II)‐Br− speciation reactions and corresponding fractions of Sn(II)Brj2−j fj were evaluated. Compared to fj as a function of Br− concentrations based on the previous report by Fedorov et al., fj measured by our electrochemical measurements were dramatically different. In an aqueous solution with 6 M Br−, 50 % of Sn(II)Br86−, 20 % of each Sn(II)Br64− and Sn(II)Br75− exist in total Sn(II)‐Br−. The diffusion coefficients, D of Sn(II)‐Br− in aqueous solutions containing different Br− concentrations were estimated, and D decreased as a Br− concentration in the solution increased, which is mainly attributed to the enlarged molecular size of Sn(II)‐Br− with more Br− coordination. A nucleation mechanism was also studied as a function of Sn(II)‐Br− speciation. It was found that the nucleation mechanism of an electrodeposited Sn on a GC electrode gradually changed from instantaneous to progressive as j in Sn(II)Brj2−j increases to 8, indicating the electrochemical Sn nucleation on a GC electrode is strongly dependent on Sn(II)‐Br− speciation.
Ensure veterans' success on campus by starting before enrollment
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2016

SAN DIEGO — Given the wide differences among student‐veterans in college preparedness, life experience and academic background, having a college campus fully equipped to service student‐veterans after active duty may mean enlisting the help of outside organizations. In a session at the recent National Association for College Admission Counseling annual conference, representatives from Yale University as well as the nonprofits Service to School and the Warrior‐Scholar Project focused on best practices for preparing veterans for college and helping them enter higher education post‐service.
Reconnect with historical roots to help university thrive
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2016

Brittany Budeski's path to the University of Great Falls started with her mother, who enrolled at the College of Great Falls (as it was then known) after a divorce left her with a high school education, poor career prospects, and two small children. Budeski went on to a career at the university, rising to the position of dean of students. “It's a very special institution,” Budeski said of Great Falls.
Development of algal interspecies correlation estimation models for chemical hazard assessment
Authors: Brill Jessica L. , Belanger Scott E. , Chaney Joel G. , Dyer Scott D. , Raimondo Sandy , Barron Mace G. , Pittinger Charles A.
Published: January 2016

Web-based Interspecies Correlation Estimation (ICE) is an application developed to predict the acute toxicity of a chemical from 1 species to another taxon. Web-ICE models use the acute toxicity value for a surrogate species to predict effect values for other species, thus potentially filling in data gaps for a variety of environmental assessment purposes. Web-ICE has historically been dominated by aquatic and terrestrial animal prediction models. Web-ICE models for algal species were essentially absent and are addressed in the present study. A compilation of public and private sector–held algal toxicity data were compiled and reviewed for quality based on relevant aspects of individual studies. Interspecies correlations were constructed from the most commonly tested algal genera for a broad spectrum of chemicals. The ICE regressions were developed based on acute 72-h and 96-h endpoint values involving 1647 unique studies on 476 unique chemicals encompassing 40 genera and 70 species of green, blue-green, and diatom algae. Acceptance criteria for algal ICE models were established prior to evaluation of individual models and included a minimum sample size of 3, a statistically significant regression slope, and a slope estimation parameter ≥0.65. A total of 186 ICE models were possible at the genus level, with 21 meeting quality criteria; and 264 ICE models were developed at the species level, with 32 meeting quality criteria. Algal ICE models will have broad utility in screening environmental hazard assessments, data gap filling in certain regulatory scenarios, and as supplemental information to derive species sensitivity distributions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2368–2378. Published 2016 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Germinated Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan): a novel diet for lowering oxidative stress and hyperglycemia
Authors: Uchegbu Nneka N. , Ishiwu Charles N.
Published: January 2016

This work studied the antioxidant activity of extract of germinated pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) in alloxan‐induced diabetic rats. Germination was carried out in a dark chamber under room temperature (28°C). The total phenolic, 1,1,diphenyl‐2‐picrylhy‐drazyl free radical (DPPH) scavenging, the inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase were done in vitro and blood glucose levels of the animal were investigated. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were analyzed spectrophotometrically. The total phenolic and DPPH scavenging activity increased by 30% and 63%, respectively, after germinating pigeon pea. Also after germination there was an increase in the inhibitory potential of pigeon pea extract against α‐glucosidase compared with the nongerminated pigeon pea extract. There was a significant increase (P < 0.05) in fasting blood glucose level of alloxan‐induced rats. Consumption of germinated pigeon pea extract gave rise to a reduced fasting blood glucose level in diabetic rats. On administration of germinated pigeon pea extract, LPO reduced drastically but there was an increase in the level of GSH. This study concluded that intake of germinated pigeon pea is a good dietary supplement for controlling hyperglycemia and LPO.
PEM Fuel Cell Operation under Air and O2 Feed: Analysis of Cell Performance and Liquid Water Distributions
Authors: Iranzo A. , Boillat P. , Salva A. , Biesdorf J.
Published: January 2016

A commercial 50 cm2 PEM (polymer electrolyte membrane) fuel cell was operated at 2.0 bara and 60 °C with two different oxidant gases, namely air and oxygen. A 3 × 3 matrix of anode and cathode reactants relative humidity (RHa and RHc) was used for a detailed characterization of the cell behavior. The cell performance and operating data including cell voltage and resistance were measured, and neutron radiographs were recorded during the entire operation to analyze the liquid water distributions within the cell. A quantitative analysis of the results is presented in this work, comparing the cell operation for both gases. The gain in cell voltage observed for the operation with O2, and the differences in the cell resistance and cell water content are quantitatively analyzed and discussed. Despite the differences in cell voltage, when the total volumetric cathode gas flow is maintained for air and oxygen feed, no significant differences are observed in the cell water content and water distribution.