bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of harvest date on barley grain contamination with Fusarium spp. and deoxynivalenol in northeastern Ontario
Authors: Xue Allen G. , Rowsell John , Ho Keh Ming , Chen Yuanhong , Chi Dawn T. , Manceur Ameur , Zhang Shuzhen , Ren Changzhong
Published: May 2013

The effect of harvest date on the incidence of seed-borne Fusarium spp. and deoxynivalenol (DON) concentration in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was studied using three cultivars at three locations in Ontario in both 2004 and 2005. The profile of seed-borne Fusarium spp. was dominated by F. equiseti (Corda) Sacc., F. sporotrichioides Sherb., and F. poae (Peck) Wollenw., isolated from 4.4%, 3.3%, and 1.6% of the kernels, representing 39.3%, 29.4%, and 14.2% of the Fusarium pathogen population, respectively. Fusarium graminearum Schwabe and F. avenaceum (Fr.) Sacc. were each recovered from <1% of the kernels and represented 8.3% and 6.6% of the pathogen population, respectively. Other species, including F. acuminatum Ellis & Everh., F. culmorum (W.G. Sm.) Sacc., and F. semitectum Berk. & Rav., collectively occurred only on 0.2% of all kernels and represented <2% of the population. The incidence level of all Fusarium spp. increased from 6.9 to 13.9% when harvest was delayed. Of the commonly recovered species, only F. avenaceum and F. sporotrichioides levels increased with the delayed harvest, while other species did not follow a clear pattern. DON concentration in the harvested grain ranged from 0.20 to 0.28 mg kg‑1 with the five harvest dates, and was not statistically different. Significant differences in the incidence of all Fusarium spp. and in DON concentration were observed among cultivars, locations, and between the 2 yr of the study. The highest DON concentration observed in this study was 0.5 mg kg‑1, which is below the Canadian tolerance level of 1.0 mg kg‑1.
Antioxidant response of the invasive herb Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. to different irradiance levels
Authors: Qin Zhong , Mao DanJuan , Quan GuoMing , Zhang Jia-En , Xie JunFang , DiTommaso Antonio
Published: May 2013

The exotic invasive Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. and a native co-occurring species in southern China, Urena lobata L., were compared to investigate the possible protective role of leaf antioxidant systems in the acclimation of invasive plants to different irradiance levels. Antioxidant activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) were examined under four irradiance regimes: 10% (dense shade), 30% (low irradiance), 55% (medium irradiance) and 100% (full irradiance). Free proline (Pro) content and the rate of lipid peroxidation in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA) content, glutathione reductase (GR), and tea polyphenols (TP) were also assessed under the different irradiance regimes. Antioxidant enzyme activity of SOD and CAT and the MDA, GR and TP contents for the two species increased with increasing irradiance levels. Invasive A. artemisiifolia was able to scavenge oxygen radicals more efficiently at higher irradiance levels by enhancing CAT activity and GR and TP contents although leaf SOD activity was not greatly enhanced. This exotic species also maintained normal physiological functions when subjected to low irradiance, which might be attributed to the increase in POD activity with decreasing irradiance levels. The higher efficiency of adaptive responses of antioxidant enzymes may protect plants from irradiance-induced stress and may contribute to the invasiveness of A. artemisiifolia in subtropical and tropical regions.
High Heritability of Hallux Valgus and Lesser Toe Deformities in Adult Men and Women
Authors: Hannan Marian T. , Menz Hylton B. , Jordan Joanne M. , Cupples L. Adrienne , Cheng Chia‐Ho , Hsu Yi‐Hsiang
Published: May 2013

Objective

To estimate the heritability of 3 common disorders affecting the forefoot, i.e., hallux valgus, lesser toe deformities, and plantar forefoot soft tissue atrophy, in white adult men and women.

Methods

Between 2002 and 2008, a trained examiner used a validated foot examination to document the presence of hallux valgus, lesser toe deformities, and plantar soft tissue atrophy in 2,446 adults from the Framingham Foot Study. Among these, 1,370 participants with an available pedigree structure were included. Heritability was estimated using pedigree structures by the Sequential Oligogenic Linkage Analysis Routines package. Results were adjusted for age, sex, and body mass index.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 66 years (range 39–99 years) and 57% were women. The prevalence of hallux valgus, lesser toe deformities, and plantar soft tissue atrophy was 31%, 29.6%, and 28.4%, respectively. Significant heritability was found for hallux valgus (range 0.29–0.89, depending on age and sex) and lesser toe deformity (range 0.49–0.90, depending on age and sex). The heritability for lesser toe deformity in men and women ages >70 years was 0.65 (P = 9 × 10−7). Significant heritability was found for plantar soft tissue atrophy in men and women ages >70 years (H2 = 0.37, P = 3.8 × 10−3).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, these are the first findings of heritability of foot disorders in humans, and they confirm the widely‐held view that hallux valgus and lesser toe deformities are highly heritable in white men and women of European descent, underscoring the importance of future work to identify genetic determinants of the underlying genetic susceptibility to these common foot disorders.
Evaluation of revised IPSS cytogenetic risk stratification and prognostic impact of monosomal karyotype in 783 patients with primary myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Gangat Naseema , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Begna Kebede , Kourelis Taxiarchis , Knudson Ryan A , Ketterling Rhett P. , Hodnefield Janice M. , Hanson Curtis A. , Pardanani Animesh , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: May 2013

Cytogenetic classification by the revised international prognostic scoring system (IPSS‐R) and the prognostic value of monosomal karyotype (MK) were assessed in 783 patients with primary myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). At 22 months median follow‐up, 562 (72%) deaths were recorded. Percentages of patients with IPSS‐R “very good,” “good,” “intermediate,” “poor,” and “very poor” cytogenetic categories was 5, 63, 18, 4, and 10%, respectively. The corresponding median survivals were 21, 40, 24, 18, and 6.5 months and the inter‐group differences (good vs. very good/intermediate/poor vs. very poor; P < 0.01) or similarities (very good vs. intermediate vs. poor; P = 0.79) were not significantly modified in multivariable analysis. Results were similar when analysis was restricted to 602 patients managed by supportive care. MK adversely affected survival in both poor and very poor karyotype groups (P < 0.01). In conclusion, we were unable to confirm the prognostic superiority of IPSS‐R‐very good karyotype or prognostically distinguish between very good, intermediate and poor karyotypes. Furthermore, we show additional prognostic information from MK in poor/very poor karyotype. Am. J. Hematol. 88:690–693, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Significance of expression of ITGA5 and its splice variants in acute myeloid leukemia: A report from the children's oncology group
Authors: Walter Roland B. , Laszlo George S. , Alonzo Todd A. , Gerbing Robert B. , Levy Shawn , Fitzgibbon Matthew P. , Gudgeon Chelsea J. , Ries Rhonda E. , Harrington Kimberly H. , Raimondi Susana C. , Hirsch Betsy A. , Gamis Alan S. , W. McIntosh Martin , Meshinchi Soheil
Published: May 2013

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) encompasses a heterogeneous group of diseases, and novel biomarkers for risk refinement and stratification are needed to optimize patient care. To identify novel risk factors, we performed transcriptome sequencing on 68 diagnostic AML samples and identified 2 transcript variants (–E2 and –E2/3) of the α‐subunit (ITGA5) of the very late antigen‐5 integrin. We then quantified expression of ITGA5 and these splice variants in specimens from participants of the AAML03P1 trial. We found no association between ITGA5 expression and clinical outcome. In contrast, patients with the highest relative expression (Q4) of the –E2/3 ITGA5 splice variant less likely had low‐risk disease than Q1–3 patients (21% vs. 38%,P= 0.027). Q4 patients had worse response to chemotherapy with a higher proportion having persistent minimal residual disease (50% vs. 23%,P= 0.003) and inferior overall survival (at 5 years: 48% vs. 67%,P= 0.015); the latter association was limited to low‐risk patients (Q4 vs. Q1‐3: 56% vs. 85%,P= 0.043) and was not seen in standard‐risk (51% vs. 60%,P= 0.340) or high‐risk (33% vs. 38%,P= 0.952) patients. Our exploratory studies indicate that transcriptome sequencing is useful for biomarker discovery, as exemplified by the identification of ITGA5 –E2/3 splice variant as potential novel adverse prognostic marker for low‐risk AML that, if confirmed, could serve to further risk‐stratify this patient subset. Am. J. Hematol. 88:694–702, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The natural history and clinical characteristics of paranasal sinus mucoceles: a clinical review
Authors: Scangas George A. , Gudis David A. , Kennedy David W.
Published: May 2013

Background

A retrospective data analysis at a university tertiary referral center was conducted to characterize the natural history, clinical characteristics, management principles, and outcomes of paranasal sinus mucoceles.

Methods

A chart review was performed on 102 patients with a total of 133 paranasal sinus mucoceles who were treated between 1987 and 2011 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Results

The study population included patients with a mean age of 53.1 years (range, 22‐82 years). Patients were diagnosed with a mucocele on average 5.3 years following prior functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), 17.7 years following prior paranasal sinus trauma, and 18.1 years following prior open sinus surgery. The most common presenting symptoms were headache (42.1%) and maxillofacial pressure (28.6%). The most common sites were the frontal, frontoethmoidal, and ethmoid sinuses. Fifty‐seven mucoceles (44.9%) had intraorbital extension, intracranial extension, or both. Out of 133 mucoceles, 114 underwent ESS without complication.

Conclusion

The length of time between prior surgery or trauma and mucocele presentation highlights the importance of long‐term follow‐up in both patient care and in the understanding and reporting of surgical outcomes. In this study, most patients exhibited nonspecific symptomatology despite extensive mucoceles and a significant incidence of orbital and skull‐base erosion. The endoscopic approach can be safely used for the management of such lesions.
Functional and structural brain changes in anti–N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis
Authors: Finke Carsten , Kopp Ute A. , Scheel Michael , Pech Luisa‐Maria , Soemmer Carina , Schlichting Jeremias , Leypoldt Frank , Brandt Alexander U. , Wuerfel Jens , Probst Christian , Ploner Christoph J. , Prüss Harald , Paul Friedemann
Published: May 2013

Objective

Anti–N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune encephalitis with a characteristic neuropsychiatric syndrome and severe and prolonged clinical courses. In contrast, standard clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) remains normal in the majority of patients. Here, we investigated structural and functional brain changes in a cohort of patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis.

Methods

Twenty‐four patients with established diagnosis of anti‐NMDAR encephalitis and age‐ and gender‐matched controls underwent neuropsychological testing and multimodal MRI, including T1w/T2w structural imaging, analysis of resting state functional connectivity, analysis of white matter using diffusion tensor imaging, and analysis of gray matter using voxel‐based morphometry.

Results

Patients showed significantly reduced functional connectivity of the left and right hippocampus with the anterior default mode network. Connectivity of both hippocampi predicted memory performance in patients. Diffusion tensor imaging revealed extensive white matter changes, which were most prominent in the cingulum and which correlated with disease severity. In contrast, no differences in T1w/T2w structural imaging and gray matter morphology were observed between patients and controls.

Interpretation

Anti‐NMDAR encephalitis is associated with characteristic alterations of functional connectivity and widespread changes of white matter integrity despite normal findings in routine clinical MRI. These results may help to explain the clinicoradiological paradox in anti‐NMDAR encephalitis and advance the pathophysiological understanding of the disease. Correlation of imaging abnormalities with disease symptoms and severity suggests that these changes play an important role in the symptomatology of anti‐NMDAR encephalitis. Ann Neurol 2013;74:257–265
Phenotypes of hypofrontality in older female fragile X premutation carriers
Authors: Yang Jin‐Chen , Simon Christa , Niu Yu‐Qiong , Bogost Mark , Schneider Andrea , Tassone Flora , Seritan Andreea , Grigsby Jim , Hagerman Paul J. , Hagerman Randi J. , Olichney John M.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To investigate the nature of cognitive impairments and underlying brain mechanisms in older female fragile X premutation carriers with and without fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS).

Methods

Extensive neuropsychological testing and cognitive event‐related brain potentials (ERPs; particularly, the auditory P300) were examined in 84 female participants: 33 fragile X premutation carriers with FXTAS (mean age = 62.8 years), 25 premutation carriers without FXTAS (mean age = 55.4 years), and 26 normal healthy controls (mean age = 59.3 years).

Results

Both premutation groups exhibited executive dysfunction on the Behavioral Dyscontrol Scale, with subtle impairments in inhibition and performance monitoring in female carriers without FXTAS, and more substantial deficits in FXTAS women. However, the female carrier group without FXTAS showed more pronounced deficiencies in working memory. Abnormal ERPs were recorded over the frontal lobes, where FXTAS patients showed both P300 amplitude reduction and latency prolongation, whereas only decreased frontal P300 amplitudes were found in carriers without FXTAS. These frontal P300 measures correlated with executive function and information processing speed.

Interpretation

The neuropsychological testing and ERP results of the present study provide support for the hypothesis that executive dysfunction is the primary cognitive impairment among older female premutation carriers both with and without FXTAS, although these deficits are relatively mild compared to those in FXTAS males. These findings are consistent with a synergistic effect of the premutation and aging on cognitive impairment among older female fragile X premutation carriers, even in those without FXTAS symptoms. Ann Neurol 2013;74:275–283
Stages of pTDP‐43 pathology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Brettschneider Johannes , Del Tredici Kelly , Toledo Jon B. , Robinson John L. , Irwin David J. , Grossman Murray , Suh EunRan , Van Deerlin Vivianna M. , Wood Elisabeth M. , Baek Young , Kwong Linda , Lee Edward B. , Elman Lauren , McCluskey Leo , Fang Lubin , Feldengut Simone , Ludolph Albert C. , Lee Virginia M.‐Y. , Braak Heiko , Trojanowski John Q.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To see whether the distribution patterns of phosphorylated 43kDa TAR DNA‐binding protein (pTDP‐43) intraneuronal inclusions in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) permit recognition of neuropathological stages.

Methods

pTDP‐43 immunohistochemistry was performed on 70μm sections from ALS autopsy cases (N = 76) classified by clinical phenotype and genetic background.

Results

ALS cases with the lowest burden of pTDP‐43 pathology were characterized by lesions in the agranular motor cortex, brainstem motor nuclei of cranial nerves V, VII, and X–XII, and spinal cord α‐motoneurons (stage 1). Increasing burdens of pathology showed involvement of the prefrontal neocortex (middle frontal gyrus), brainstem reticular formation, precerebellar nuclei, and the red nucleus (stage 2). In stage 3, pTDP‐43 pathology involved the prefrontal (gyrus rectus and orbital gyri) and then postcentral neocortex and striatum. Cases with the greatest burden of pTDP‐43 lesions showed pTDP‐43 inclusions in anteromedial portions of the temporal lobe, including the hippocampus (stage 4). At all stages, these lesions were accompanied by pTDP‐43 oligodendroglial aggregates. Ten cases with C9orf72 repeat expansion displayed the same sequential spreading pattern as nonexpansion cases but a greater regional burden of lesions, indicating a more fulminant dissemination of pTDP‐43 pathology.

Interpretation

pTDP‐43 pathology in ALS possibly disseminates in a sequential pattern that permits recognition of 4 neuropathological stages consistent with the hypothesis that pTDP‐43 pathology is propagated along axonal pathways. Moreover, the finding that pTDP‐43 pathology develops in the prefrontal cortex as part of an ongoing disease process could account for the development of executive cognitive deficits in ALS. Ann Neurol 2013;74:20–38
Three times weekly glatiramer acetate in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Khan Omar , Rieckmann Peter , Boyko Alexey , Selmaj Krzysztof , Zivadinov Robert ,   GALA Study Group
Published: May 2013

Objective

To assess the efficacy and safety of glatiramer acetate (GA) 40mg administered 3× weekly (tiw) compared with placebo in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind study was conducted in 142 sites in 17 countries. Patients with RRMS with at least 1 documented relapse in the 12 months before screening, or at least 2 documented relapses in the 24 months before screening, and an Expanded Disability Status Scale score ≤ 5.5, were randomized 2:1 to receive either subcutaneous (sc) GA 40mg tiw (1ml) or placebo for 12 months.

Results

Of 1,524 patients screened, 1,404 were randomized to receive GA 40mg sc tiw (n = 943) or placebo (n = 461). Ninety‐three percent and 91% of patients in the placebo and GA groups, respectively, completed the 12‐month study. GA 40mg tiw was associated with a 34.0% reduction in risk of confirmed relapses compared with placebo (mean annualized relapse rate = 0.331 vs 0.505; p < 0.0001). Patients who received GA 40mg tiw experienced highly significant reduction (p < 0.0001) in the cumulative number of gadolinium‐enhancing T1 (44.8%) and new or newly enlarging T2 lesions (34.7%) at months 6 and 12. GA 40mg tiw was safe and well tolerated. The most common adverse events in the GA group were injection site reactions (35.5% with GA vs 5.0% with placebo).

Interpretation

GA 40mg sc tiw is a safe and effective regimen for the treatment of RRMS, providing the convenience of fewer sc injections per week. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:705–713
Validation of midbrain positron emission tomography measures for nigrostriatal neurons in macaques
Authors: Brown Christopher A. , Karimi Morvarid K. , Tian LinLin , Flores Hugh , Su Yi , Tabbal Samer D. , Loftin Susan K. , Moerlein Stephen M. , Perlmutter Joel S.
Published: May 2013

Objective

Development of an effective therapy to slow the inexorable progression of Parkinson disease requires a reliable, objective measurement of disease severity. In the present study, we compare presynaptic positron emission tomography (PET) tracer uptake in the substantia nigra (SN) to cell loss and motor impairment in 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐treated nonhuman primates.

Methods

Presynaptic PET tracers 6‐[18F]‐fluorodopa (FD), [11C]‐2β‐methoxy‐3β‐4‐fluorophenyltropane (CFT), and [11C]‐dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ) were used to measure specific uptake in the SN and striatum before and after a variable dose of MPTP in nonhuman primates. These in vivo PET‐based measures were compared with motor impairment, as well as postmortem tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive cell counts and striatal dopamine concentration.

Results

We found the specific uptake of both CFT and DTBZ in the SN had a strong, significant correlation with dopaminergic cell counts in the SN (R2 = 0.77, 0.53, respectively, p < 0.001), but uptake of FD did not. Additionally, both CFT and DTBZ specific uptake in the SN had a linear relationship with motor impairment (rs = −0.77, −0.71, respectively, p < 0.001), but FD uptake did not.

Interpretation

Our findings demonstrate that PET‐measured binding potentials for CFT and DTBZ for a midbrain volume of interest targeted at the SN provide faithful correlates of nigral neuronal counts across a full range of lesion severity. Because these measures correlate with both nigral cell counts and parkinsonian ratings, we suggest that these SN PET measures are relevant biomarkers of nigrostriatal function. Ann Neurol 2013;74:602–610
Nrf2 defense pathway: Experimental evidence for its protective role in epilepsy
Authors: Mazzuferi Manuela , Kumar Gaurav , van Eyll Jonathan , Danis Benedicte , Foerch Patrik , Kaminski Rafal M.
Published: May 2013

Objective

Epigenetic mechanisms involved in transcriptional regulation of multiple molecular pathways are potentially attractive therapeutic interventions for epilepsy, because single target therapies are unlikely to provide both anticonvulsant and disease‐modifying effects.

Methods

A selection of epilepsy‐related gene expression data sets were retrieved using NextBio software and imported to Ingenuity Pathway Analysis for transcription factor enrichment analysis. Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)—a transcription factor that promotes the expression of numerous antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective proteins—was identified as a candidate for confirmation of mRNA expression in hippocampal tissue from patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and in mice following pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus (SE). Human Nrf2 was overexpressed via an adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector after the onset of spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) in the animals. At the end of a 5‐week continuous monitoring period for SRS, quantitative immunohistochemistry using neuronal (neuronal‐specific nuclear protein), astrocytic (glial fibrillary acidic protein), and microglial (ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1) markers was performed.

Results

A significant increase in Nrf2 mRNA expression was observed in human epileptic hippocampal tissue. Nrf2 expression levels increased progressively in mice, reaching a peak at 72 hours after SE, and then declined. Similar expression patterns were observed for 3 Nrf2‐regulated genes: HO‐1, NQO1, and mGST. Remarkably, mice injected with AAV Nrf2 displayed significantly fewer generalized seizures, with profound reduction in microglia activation. Hippocampal neurons were preserved, whereas the number of astrocytes was unchanged.

Interpretation

These findings extend the potential of Nrf2‐based therapies to epilepsy and add to the rapidly accumulating evidence from other neurodegenerative and inflammatory disease models. Ann Neurol 2013;74:560–568
γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptors that contain the δ subunit promote memory and neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus
Authors: Whissell Paul D. , Rosenzweig Shira , Lecker Irene , Wang Dian‐Shi , Wojtowicz J. Martin , Orser Beverley A.
Published: May 2013

Objective

Extrasynaptic γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptors that contain the δ subunit (δGABAA receptors) are highly expressed in the dentate gyrus (DG) subfield of the hippocampus, where they generate a tonic conductance that regulates neuronal activity. GABAA receptor‐dependent signaling regulates memory and also facilitates postnatal neurogenesis in the adult DG; however, the role of the δGABAA receptors in these processes is unclear. Accordingly, we sought to determine whether δGABAA receptors regulate memory behaviors, as well as neurogenesis in the DG.

Methods

Memory and neurogenesis were studied in wild‐type (WT) mice and transgenic mice that lacked δGABAA receptors (Gabrd−/−). To pharmacologically increase δGABAA receptor activity, mice were treated with the δGABAA receptor‐preferring agonist 4,5,6,7‐tetrahydroisoxazolo(5,4‐c)pyridin‐3‐ol (THIP). Behavioral assays including recognition memory, contextual discrimination, and fear extinction were used. Neurogenesis was studied by measuring the proliferation, survival, migration, maturation, and dendritic complexity of adult‐born neurons in the DG.

Results

Gabrd−/− mice exhibited impaired recognition memory and contextual discrimination relative to WT mice. Fear extinction was also impaired in Gabrd−/− mice, although the acquisition of fear memory was enhanced. Neurogenesis was disrupted in Gabrd−/− mice as the migration, maturation, and dendritic development of adult‐born neurons were impaired. Long‐term treatment with THIP facilitated learning and neurogenesis in WT but not Gabrd−/− mice.

Interpretation

δGABAA receptors promote the performance of certain DG‐dependent memory behaviors and facilitate neurogenesis. Furthermore, δGABAA receptors can be pharmacologically targeted to enhance these processes. Ann Neurol 2013;74:611–621
Maleic anhydride‐grafted‐polybutadiene as a controlled defibrillating and dispersing agent for short aramid fiber reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane composite with improved mechanical properties
Authors: Shibulal G. S. , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: May 2013

The reinforcing effect of resorcinol formaldehyde latex (RFL) coated short aramid fiber on an ester‐based thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) was investigated on the basis of mechanical properties. Short fibers having different fiber length were used for the reinforcement. The exceptionally high Young's modulus and low strain modulus indicate the reinforcing effect of this fiber on to the TPU matrix. It has been observed that fibers of 3 mm length at 10 phr loading and 6 mm length even at a loading of 5 phr start to exhibit severe fibrillation: the longitudinal splitting of fiber having larger diameter into thinner fibrils during processing. Fibrillation favorably affects the mechanical bonding with the matrix because of the large surface area as well as surface irregularities provided by the fibrillated fiber. However, fibrillation adversely affects the fiber dispersion by enhancing the fiber aggregation. This leads to a greater disturbance in the strain hardening behavior of the TPU matrix and subsequently reducing the tensile strength and elongation at break especially at high fiber loading. Therefore, to control the degree of fibrillation a pre‐treatment has been applied on the aramid fiber surface with maleic anhydride‐grafted‐polybutadiene (PB‐g‐MA) prior to mixing it with the TPU matrix. A good quality of fiber dispersion with improved tensile strength and elongation at break has been achieved even with 6 mm short fiber at a loading of 10 phr with the treatment of only 5 phr of PB‐g‐MA. The tensile fractured surface morphological analyses of PB‐g‐MA coated fiber filled TPU composite strongly advocate these results. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2205–2216, 2013
Temperature dependence of hydrogen bond in Fe‐OCAP/polyurethane blends
Authors: Ti Yang , Chen Dajun
Published: May 2013

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) thermal analysis was utilized to study the temperature dependence of hydrogen bond in Fe‐octacarboxyl acid phthalocyanine (Fe‐OCAP)/polyurethane (PU) blends. Two regions in the FTIR spectra were concerned to investigate the difference of the degree of hydrogen bond in the samples: the NH stretching region (3210–3460 cm−1) and carbonyl stretching region (1680–1760 cm−1). It was found that the average strength of hydrogen bond in the modified samples was stronger than that in pure PU. With increasing Fe‐OCAP content, the hydrogen bonded NH and carbonyl groups were increased, while with increasing temperature they decreased. The equilibrium between free and hydrogen bonded carbonyl groups was discussed. The dissociation enthalpy for hydrogen bonded carbonyl of the samples was increased with increasing Fe‐OCAP content. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2265–2271, 2013
New evidences of accelerating degradation of polyethylene by starch
Authors: Liu Xingxun , Yu Long , Xie Fengwei , Petinakis Eustathios , Sangwan Parveen , Shen Shirley , Dean Katherine , Ammala Anne , Wong‐Holmes Susan
Published: May 2013

An investigation into the effects of starch on both, UV photo‐oxidative degradation and biodegradation, of HDPE was focused on the interface between HDPE and starch using Synchrotron‐FTIR microscope (SFTIR‐M) and scanning electronic microscope (SEM). Carbonyl group detection by FTIR was conducted to evaluate the effect of degradation following exposure to UV photo‐oxidative degradation. The results showed that the concentration of carbonyl groups on the interface were higher, suggesting the role of starch in accelerating the UV photo‐oxidative degradation of HDPE. The interface between HDPE and starch was further observed under SEM to study the morphological changes after UV photo‐oxidative degradation and biodegradation. Micro‐cracking was observed on the interface between starch and HDPE after UV photo‐oxidative degradation. Tensile testing after UV exposure showed that the variation rate of elongation was higher for the samples containing starch. Starch, an easily biodegradable material, can also act as initial source of nutrients for micro‐organisms (bacteria, fungi, and algae) in the blend materials thus enhancing their biodegradability. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2282–2287, 2013
Fabrication of electrically conductive polymer composites for bipolar plate by two‐step compression molding technique
Authors: Li Kwi Chol , Zhang Kun , Wu Guozhang
Published: May 2013

Electrically conductive polymer composites for bipolar plate were fabricated by two‐step compression molding technique. Raw materials consisted of natural graphite flakes (G), expanded graphite (EG), carbon black (CB), and phenol resin (PF). The G/EG/CB/PF composites were first compressed at a temperature lower than curing point (100°C) and then cured at a high temperature above curing point (150°C) and high pressure (10 MPa). Results showed that G and EG are oriented in the direction parallel to the composite plate surface. CB is dispersed not only in the phenol resin matrix but also in the packing and porous space of G and EG. The addition of EG and CB significantly increases number of the electrical channels and thus enhances the electrical conductivity of the composite. Under optimal conditions, electrical conductivity and flexural strength of the composite were 2.80 × 104 S/m and 55 MPa, respectively, suggesting that the dipolar plates prepared by two‐step compression molding technique are adequate to meet the requirement of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2296–2302, 2013
Influence of molecular weight and rheological behavior on electrospinning cellulose nanofibers from ionic liquids
Authors: Härdelin Linda , Perzon Erik , Hagström Bengt , Walkenström Pernilla , Gatenholm Paul
Published: May 2013

Dissolving pulp was depolymerized with 2.5M HCl into cellulose fractions with decreasing molecular weight relative to acid treatment time. The cellulose fractions were dissolved at various concentrations in the ionic liquid 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate (EmimAc) with co‐solvent DMSO at ratio 1 : 1 (w/w) and electrospun. Size exclusion chromatography was used to evaluate the molecular weight distributions and the rheological properties were characterized with a cone‐and‐plate rheometer. Scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the fiber morphology, and thereby spinnability. Zero shear viscosity as a function of cellulose concentration show that all the solutions in this study are in the entangled semi‐dilute regime; where the polymer concentration is large enough for significant overlap necessary for chain entanglement. However, within the intervals studied, neither cellulose concentration nor molecular weight seems to be decisive for if a solution can be electrospun into fibers or not. It is rather the viscosity of the solution that is decisive for electrospinnability, even though the solution is in the entangled semi‐dilute regime. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2303–2310, 2013
Optimal design of multi‐server Markovian queues with polynomial waiting and service costs
Authors: Parlar Mahmut , Sharafali Moosa
Published: May 2013

This paper is concerned with the optimal design of queueing systems. The main decisions in the design of such systems are the number of servers, the appropriate control to have on the arrival rates, and the appropriate service rate these servers should possess. In the formulation of the objective function to this problem, most publications use only linear cost rates. The linear rates, especially for the waiting cost, do not accurately reflect reality. Although there are papers involving nonlinear cost functions, no paper has ever considered using polynomial cost functions of degree higher than two. This is because simple formulas for computing the higher moments are not available in the literature. This paper is an attempt to fill this gap in the literature. Thus, the main contributions of our work are as follows: (i) the derivation of a very simple formula for the higher moments of the waiting time for the M/M/s queueing system, which requires only the knowledge of the expected waiting time; (ii) proving their convexity with respect to the design variables; and (iii) modeling and solving more realistic design problems involving general polynomial cost functions. We also focus on simultaneous optimization of the staffing level, arrival rate and service rate. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Exploration of Imitation Recognition in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Berger Natalie I. , Ingersoll Brooke
Published: May 2013

The ability to recognize when one is being imitated has been hypothesized to be an important developmental process related to the emergence of more advanced social‐cognitive skills. While a series of behaviors indicating progressively more mature imitation recognition (IR) skills has been assessed in typically developing children, empirical work with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) has largely focused on basic social responses to an imitative adult (e.g. increases in eye contact). Limited work has explored more mature IR behaviors in this population. This study compared the degree to which children with ASD engage in different behaviors thought to be indicative of IR during a naturalistic imitation task and the relationship between different types of IR behaviors and social‐cognitive skills (i.e. imitation, language, social reciprocity, and joint attention). Thirty children with ASD were administered standardized measures of cognitive level, language, joint attention, social reciprocity, and imitation. IR behaviors were observed during periods of contingent imitation by an adult. Participants engaged more frequently in less mature (e.g. looking at the experimenter's toy or face) than more mature IR behaviors (e.g. testing the experimenter's intent to imitate). After controlling for developmental level, social reciprocity, object imitation, and gesture imitation were positively correlated with more mature IR. These findings suggest that the development of more mature IR skills is related to the development of other social‐cognitive skills in children with ASD and provide additional empirical support for reports of more mature IR observed in this population. Autism Res 2013, ●●: ●●–●●. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Individual Differences in the Real‐Time Comprehension of Children with ASD
Authors: Venker Courtney E. , Eernisse Elizabeth R. , Saffran Jenny R. , Weismer Susan Ellis
Published: May 2013

Many children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) demonstrate deficits in language comprehension, but little is known about how they process spoken language as it unfolds. Real‐time lexical comprehension is associated with language and cognition in children without ASD, suggesting that this may also be the case for children with ASD. This study adopted an individual differences approach to characterizing real‐time comprehension of familiar words in a group of 34 three‐ to six‐year‐olds with ASD. The looking‐while‐listening paradigm was employed; it measures online accuracy and latency through language‐mediated eye movements and has limited task demands. On average, children demonstrated comprehension of the familiar words, but considerable variability emerged. Children with better accuracy were faster to process the familiar words. In combination, processing speed and comprehension on a standardized language assessment explained 63% of the variance in online accuracy. Online accuracy was not correlated with autism severity or maternal education, and nonverbal cognition did not explain unique variance. Notably, online accuracy at age 5½ was related to vocabulary comprehension 3 years earlier. The words typically learned earliest in life were processed most quickly. Consistent with a dimensional view of language abilities, these findings point to similarities in patterns of language acquisition in typically developing children and those with ASD. Overall, our results emphasize the value of examining individual differences in real‐time language comprehension in this population. We propose that the looking‐while‐listening paradigm is a sensitive and valuable methodological tool that can be applied across many areas of autism research. Autism Res 2013, ●●: ●●–●●. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A progeroid syndrome with neonatal presentation and long survival maps to 19p13.3p13.2
Authors: Akawi Nadia , Ali Bassam , Al Gazali Lihadh
Published: May 2013

We report on a Palestinian family with three affected individuals exhibiting progeroid syndrome characterized by intrauterine growth retardation, a progeroid appearance, failure to thrive, short stature, and hypotonia. The progeroid features were evident at birth. All the affected members of this family have survived beyond the neonatal period and one of them is currently a 27‐year‐old adult. As parental consanguinity suggested an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance, we employed homozygosity mapping using single nucleotide polymorphism arrays followed by next generation whole exome sequencing to identify the disease‐causing gene. We were able to identify a single block of homozygosity shared between all the affected members of the studied family spanning 2.3 Mb on chromosome 19p13.3p13.2. However, Sanger sequencing of known genes and whole exome sequencing of the three affected sibs did not reveal a convincing causal mutation. These findings are anticipated to open the way for the identification of the molecular causes underlying this syndrome. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 97:456–462, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preventive Detention of Sex Offenders: The American Experience versus International Human Rights Norms
Authors: Janus Eric S.
Published: May 2013

Nearly two decades after the birth of American Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) laws and the tolerant review of their legitimacy by American courts, European courts and international bodies are beginning to develop a jurisprudence of their own with regard to preventive detention. Applying international human rights norms, these bodies have been significantly less tolerant of preventive detention, looking not only at their design but also at their implementation. Simultaneously, American courts are showing the beginnings of a second look at SVP laws, inspired and informed not by promises about the future implementation of newly passed SVP laws, but rather by the sorry record of two decades of implementation. This article examines an American SVP scheme as it has been implemented over 20 years, contrasts the international perspective, and offers some speculation about the path of reform for American SVP schemes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The clinical utility of below‐the‐ankle angioplasty using “transmetatarsal artery access” in complex cases of CLI
Authors: Palena Luis Mariano , Brocco Enrico , Manzi Marco
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To appraise clinical results of foot arteries recanalization using percutaneous retrograde transmetatarsal arteries access followed by retrograde recanalization of foot and tibial vessels.

Background

Arterial revascularization by means of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is a mainstay in the management of patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). Nonetheless, when employing standard approaches, success rate remain suboptimal. We report the clinical results of foot arteries recanalization through transmetatarsal artery access.

Methods

From September 2011 to November 2012, 38 patients (28 men; mean age 73.2 ± 11.4 years) underwent transmetatarsal artery access after antegrade recanalization failure, followed by retrograde recanalization of the foot and tibial vessels. The primary end point was TcPO2improvement. The secondary end point was limb salvage rate, amputation‐free survival rate and radiation exposure.

Results

Technical success (ability to deliver the balloon across the lesion and inflate it at nominal pressure) was achieved in 33 (86.84%) of cases, with <50% residual stenosis and no complications. Failures were because of spasm or no true lumen re‐entry. During follow‐up (mean 6.7 ± 2.3 months/range 1–14) clinical improvement was observed in the patients having technical success, with TcPO2increasing, from 10.3 ± 7.6 to 50.7 ± 8.2 mm Hg, avoiding major amputations. Amputation‐free survival rate calculated by Kaplan–Meier analysis was 81.5% at 12 months. Radiation exposition was major than in patients treated by antegrade way (45.5 ± 56.1 vs. 52.5 ± 11.5 min of fluoroscopy and 69.1 ± 83.2 vs. 94 ± 26.5 Gym2of X‐ray dose;P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Transmetatarsal artery access appears feasible and beneficial in cases with a failed antegrade recanalization and unsuitable for retrograde pedal/plantar access. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Population‐based cancer registries for quality‐of‐life research
Authors: Thong Melissa S. Y. , Mols Floortje , Stein Kevin D. , Smith Tenbroeck , Coebergh Jan‐Willem W. , van de Poll‐Franse Lonneke V.
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

With the increasing number and diversity of cancer survivors, studies of survivors' physical, emotional, and social health and well being are of growing importance. Population‐based cancer registries, which collect data on incident cases, can play an important role in quality‐of‐life (QoL) studies. In this review, the authors provide an overview of QoL studies that have used cancer registry data in this emerging area of research.

METHODS

Publication databases were searched for relevant peer‐reviewed original articles published between 2001 and mid‐2011. Inclusion criteria were articles published in English that used cancer registries as the sampling frame and/or that used registry data in analyses with QoL data. All included articles were assessed on the quality of information provided, cancer registry procedures, and study design.

RESULTS

In total, 173 articles from 13 countries were reviewed, and a large proportion were from the United States (n = 72) and Europe (n = 70). Fourteen different malignancies were studied, and the most frequent were breast cancer. Most studies focused on adult survivors, and only 4 focused on the elderly (aged >70 years). Of the reviewed articles, 110 (64%) provided a good amount of information on the cancer registry. Information less frequently reported included mainly follow‐up of vital status and characteristics of respondents/nonrespondents.

CONCLUSIONS

QoL studies increasingly use population‐based registries, which provide important clinical variables and an excellent sampling frame for identifying subgroups. Until now, most studies have tended to focus on more prevalent cancers, and surprisingly few studies have focused on QoL of elderly survivors, who remain understudied in clinical trials. Cancer 2013;119(11 suppl):2109‐23. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Current perspectives and emerging issues on cancer rehabilitation
Authors: Stubblefield Michael D. , Hubbard Gill , Cheville Andrea , Koch Uwe , Schmitz Kathryn H. , Dalton Susanne Oksbjerg
Published: May 2013

Cancer rehabilitation is a rapidly emerging and evolving medical field in both Europe and the United States, in large part because of increases in the number of cancer survivors. Although few argue with the need to restore function and quality of life to patients affected by cancer and its treatments, differences exist between European countries with regard to the funding, accessibility, and even the definition of cancer rehabilitation services. In the United States, there is tremendous variability in the provision of rehabilitation services resulting from a variety of factors, including a lack of highly trained cancer rehabilitation physicians and therapists as well as a lack of comprehensive cancer rehabilitation programs, even at the majority of top cancer centers. Although studies evaluating the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs in the cancer setting, particularly exercise, have influenced clinical decision‐making in both Europe and the United States for some time, this emerging evidence base also is now starting to influence guideline and policy making. Coordinated research efforts are essential to establish a robust framework to support future investigation and establish shared initiatives. Determining the best way forward for cancer survivors will require investment in large‐scale prospective cohort studies that sufficiently describe their rehabilitation needs through the continuum of the survivorship experience. Cancer 2013;119(11 suppl):2170‐8. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Cardiac toxicity in cancer survivors
Authors: Lenihan Daniel J. , Oliva Stefano , Chow Eric J. , Cardinale Daniela
Published: May 2013

Cardiac disease is a major concern for cancer survivors, and this can be manifested as cardiac dysfunction from myocardial damage, valvular disease, atherosclerosis, and/or pericardial disease. In this “dialogue” between select European and American investigators, present current perspectives (both similarities and differences) are presented regarding the diagnosis and management of cardiac disease among cancer survivors, with a focus on left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and heart failure. The authors conclude that comprehensive cardiac risk assessment is necessary to optimally manage all cancer survivors, and the integration of common definitions is necessary. Ongoing and future research will need to incorporate cardiovascular management principles in the long‐term assessment of cancer survivors. Cardiac biomarkers, troponin, and the natriuretic peptides are becoming essential in the management of cardiac disease in cancer survivors coupled with periodic use of sophisticated imaging tools. Recognition of specific cancer therapy and the increased cardiovascular risk is an ongoing task that will remain of paramount importance for optimal outcomes among cancer survivors. Cancer 2013;119(11 suppl):2131‐42. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Survivorship programs and care planning
Authors: McCabe Mary S. , Faithfull Sara , Makin Wendy , Wengstrom Yvonne
Published: May 2013

Formal cancer survivorship care is a growing focus internationally. This article provides a broad overview of the national strategies currently in progress for the development of survivorship programs and care plans within the United States and across Europe. The different approaches taken in their implementation, staffing, and clinical focus are highlighted, with an emphasis on how they are incorporated into various models of care. The considerable variation in making survivorship a formal period of care across countries and health care systems is discussed, including the factors influencing these differences. A review of research focused on the evaluation of definitions and outcomes is provided along with a discussion of important areas requiring future research. Cancer 2013;119(11 suppl):2179‐86. © 2013 American Cancer Society.