bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immediate Dissemination of Student Discoveries to a Model Organism Database Enhances Classroom-Based Research Experiences
Authors: Wiley Emily A. , Stover Nicholas A.
Published: March 2014

Use of inquiry-based research modules in the classroom has soared over recent years, largely in response to national calls for teaching that provides experience with scientific processes and methodologies. To increase the visibility of in-class studies among interested researchers and to strengthen their impact on student learning, we have extended the typical model of inquiry-based labs to include a means for targeted dissemination of student-generated discoveries. This initiative required: 1) creating a set of research-based lab activities with the potential to yield results that a particular scientific community would find useful and 2) developing a means for immediate sharing of student-generated results. Working toward these goals, we designed guides for course-based research aimed to fulfill the need for functional annotation of the Tetrahymena thermophila genome, and developed an interactive Web database that links directly to the official Tetrahymena Genome Database for immediate, targeted dissemination of student discoveries. This combination of research via the course modules and the opportunity for students to immediately “publish” their novel results on a Web database actively used by outside scientists culminated in a motivational tool that enhanced students’ efforts to engage the scientific process and pursue additional research opportunities beyond the course.
The Genetic Drift Inventory: A Tool for Measuring What Advanced Undergraduates Have Mastered about Genetic Drift
Authors: Price Rebecca M. , Andrews Tessa C. , McElhinny Teresa L. , Mead Louise S. , Abraham Joel K. , Thanukos Anna , Perez Kathryn E.
Published: March 2014

Understanding genetic drift is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of biology, yet it is difficult to learn because it combines the conceptual challenges of both evolution and randomness. To help assess strategies for teaching genetic drift, we have developed and evaluated the Genetic Drift Inventory (GeDI), a concept inventory that measures upper-division students’ understanding of this concept. We used an iterative approach that included extensive interviews and field tests involving 1723 students across five different undergraduate campuses. The GeDI consists of 22 agree–disagree statements that assess four key concepts and six misconceptions. Student scores ranged from 4/22 to 22/22. Statements ranged in mean difficulty from 0.29 to 0.80 and in discrimination from 0.09 to 0.46. The internal consistency, as measured with Cronbach's alpha, ranged from 0.58 to 0.88 across five iterations. Test–retest analysis resulted in a coefficient of stability of 0.82. The true–false format means that the GeDI can test how well students grasp key concepts central to understanding genetic drift, while simultaneously testing for the presence of misconceptions that indicate an incomplete understanding of genetic drift. The insights gained from this testing will, over time, allow us to improve instruction about this key component of evolution.
Prevention strategies for adolescent depression
Authors: Bennett Cheryl , Jones Rhys Bevan , Smith Daniel
Published: March 2014

Depression is missed more often in adolescents than in adults, partly because they present with symptoms different from those in adults and because many do not seek help. Early detection or the delay of onset can have a significant effect on a young person's development and social functioning. We briefly discuss diagnosis and screening instruments before presenting the wide range of educational and psychological preventive approaches developed for adolescent depression. Many of the latter are based on the cognitive-behavioural or interpersonal therapy models. We consider how clinicians might use the current evidence base to identify and prevent depression in adolescents, and outline the principles of management of the disorder.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

•

Identify signs and symptoms of adolescent depression and recognise the difficulties in making a diagnosis.

•

Recognise the risk factors for adolescent depression.

•

Appreciate the aims and theoretical concepts of prevention strategies for adolescent depression.
Adolescent decision-making and the zone of parental control: a missed opportunity for legislative change
Authors: Akerele Femi
Published: March 2014

Issues relating to the consent of individuals under 18 years of age in England and Wales are covered by the Family Law Reform Act 1969, the Children Act 1989, the Mental Health Act 1983 (to some extent) and case law. Legislation on the consent of minors to hospital admission and treatment is complicated and contradictory, leaving clinicians unsure when to rely on the consent of the minor or that of someone with parental responsibility. This article reviews the concept of the zone of parental control (ZPC), introduced in England in 2008. It argues that this concept is too vague and subjective to provide any clear guidance on who can give consent for a minor's admission and treatment.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

•

Understand the concept of the ZPC and its relevance to clinical practice.

•

Determine the appropriate legal source of consent or refusal for children and young people.

•

Consider using formal powers (as against parental consent) with children and young people refusing admission and/or treatment.
Mental healthcare in Brazil: modest advances and major challenges
Authors: de Jesus Mari Jair
Published: March 2014

This brief article describes the main health indicators of Brazil and gives an overview of psychiatric care. It points out the primary pitfalls of the mental healthcare system and presents some suggestions for the future of mental health in the country.
Metabolic syndrome in psychiatry: advances in understanding and management
Authors: Ho Cyrus S. H. , Zhang Melvyn W. B. , Mak Anselm , Ho Roger C. M.
Published: March 2014

Metabolic syndrome comprises a number of cardiovascular risk factors that increase morbidity and mortality. The increase in incidence of the syndrome among psychiatric patients has been unanimously demonstrated in recent studies and it has become one of the greatest challenges in psychiatric practice. Besides the use of psychotropic drugs, factors such as genetic polymorphisms, inflammation, endocrinopathies and unhealthy lifestyle contribute to the association between metabolic syndrome and a number of psychiatric disorders. In this article, we review the current diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome and propose clinically useful guidelines for psychiatrists to identify and monitor patients who may have the syndrome. We also outline the relationship between metabolic syndrome and individual psychiatric disorders, and discuss advances in pharmacological treatment for the syndrome, such as metformin.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

•

Be familiar with the definition of metabolic syndrome and its parameters of measurement.

•

Appreciate how individual psychiatric disorders contribute to metabolic syndrome and vice versa.

•

Develop a framework for the prevention, screening and management of metabolic syndrome in psychiatric patients.
What is it like to be diagnosed with bipolar illness, borderline
personality disorder or another diagnosis with mood
instability?
Authors: Dudas Robert B.
Published: March 2014

Patients with mood instability represent a significant proportion of
patients with mental illness. Important lessons need to be learnt about how
current assessment processes do not meet their expectations. Changes at
various levels, including medical and nursing education, service provision
and research priorities, appear necessary if we are to help our patients
better.
Does Money Illusion Matter?: Comment
Authors: Petersen Luba , Winn Abel
Published: March 2014

This paper experimentally investigates whether money illusion generates substantial nominal inertia. Building on the design of Fehr and Tyran (2001), we find no evidence that agents choose high nominal payoffs over high real payoffs. However, participants do select prices associated with high nominal payoffs within a set of maximum real payoffs as a heuristic to simplify their decision task. The cognitive challenge of this task explains the majority of the magnitude of nominal inertia; money illusion exerts only a second-order effect. The duration of nominal inertia depends primarily on participants' best response functions, not the prevalence of money illusion. (JEL C91, D21, D83, E31, E41, E52, L11)
Does Money Illusion Matter?: Reply
Authors: Fehr Ernst , Tyran Jean-Robert
Published: March 2014

The data in Fehr and Tyran (2001) and Petersen and Winn (2014) show that money illusion plays an important role in nominal price adjustment after a fully anticipated negative monetary shock. Money illusion affects subjects' expectations, and causes pronounced nominal inertia after a negative shock but much less inertia after a positive shock. Thus Petersen and Winn (2014) provide a misleading interpretation of both our and their own data. (JEL C92, D83, D84, E31, E32, E52)
Fiscal Stimulus in a Monetary Union: Evidence from US Regions
Authors: Nakamura Emi , Steinsson Jón
Published: March 2014

We use rich historical data on military procurement to estimate the effects of government spending. We exploit regional variation in military buildups to estimate an “open economy relative multiplier” of approximately 1.5. We develop a framework for interpreting this estimate and relating it to estimates of the standard closed economy aggregate multiplier. The latter is highly sensitive to how strongly aggregate monetary and tax policy “leans against the wind.” Our open economy relative multiplier “differences out” these effects because monetary and tax policies are uniform across the nation. Our evidence indicates that demand shocks can have large effects on output. (JEL E12, E32, E62, F33, H56, H57, R12)
When the Levee Breaks: Black Migration and Economic Development in the American South
Authors: Hornbeck Richard , Naidu Suresh
Published: March 2014

In the American South, postbellum economic development may have been restricted in part by white landowners' access to low-wage black labor. This paper examines the impact of the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 on black out-migration and subsequent agricultural development. Flooded counties experienced an immediate and persistent out-migration of black population. Over time, landowners in flooded counties modernized agricultural production and increased its capital intensity relative to landowners in nearby similar non-flooded counties. Landowners resisted black out-migration, however, benefiting from the status quo system of labor-intensive agricultural production. (JEL J15, J43, N32, N52, N92, Q54, R23)
Anterior dislocation of the shoulder in skeletally immature patients
Authors: Khan A. , Samba A. , Pereira B. , Canavese F.
Published: March 2014

The ideal treatment for traumatic anterior dislocation of the shoulder in the skeletally immature patient is controversial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes after either conservative and/or surgical treatment using the Latarjet technique. A retrospective series of 49 out of 80 patients were reviewed. We found no significant differences between either treatment method regarding functional scores and pain levels. Although not statistically significant, post-surgical patients showed better signs of shoulder stability than others who have a higher rate of recurrence. Further, 92% of the post-surgical group had returned to the same level of activity versus 52% in the non-surgically treated group. We found no contraindications to operate on a skeletally immature patient.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:354–9.
A comparison of the use of uncemented hydroxyapatite-coated bipolar and cemented femoral stems in the treatment of femoral neck fractures
Authors: Bell K. R. , Clement N. D. , Jenkins P. J. , Keating J. F.
Published: March 2014

We performed a case–control study to compare the rates of further surgery, revision and complications, operating time and survival in patients who were treated with either an uncemented hydroxyapatite-coated Corail bipolar femoral stem or a cemented Exeter stem for a displaced intracapsular fracture of the hip. The mean age of the patients in the uncemented group was 82.5 years (53 to 97) and in the cemented group was 82.7 years (51 to 99) We used propensity score matching, adjusting for age, gender and the presence or absence of dementia and comorbidities, to produce a matched cohort receiving an Exeter stem (n = 69) with which to compare the outcome of patients receiving a Corail stem (n = 69). The Corail had a significantly lower all-cause rate of further surgery (p = 0.016; odds ratio (OR) 0.18, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.84) and number of hips undergoing major further surgery (p = 0.029; OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.09). The mean operating time was significantly less for the Corail group than for the cemented Exeter group (59 min [12 to 136] vs 70 min [40 to 175], p = 0.001). The Corail group also had a lower risk of a peri-prosthetic fracture (p = 0.042; OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.42) . There was no difference in the mortality rate between the groups. There were significantly fewer complications in the uncemented group, suggesting that the use of this stem would result in a decreased rate of morbidity in these frail patients. Whether this relates to an improved functional outcome remains unknown.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:299–305.
Antibiotic-related acute kidney injury in patients undergoing elective joint replacement
Authors: Bailey O. , Torkington M. S. , Anthony I. , Wells J. , Blyth M. , Jones B.
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to determine if a change in antibiotic prophylaxis for routine hip and knee replacement was associated with an increased risk of acute renal impairment.

We identified 238 patients (128 knees and 110 hips) who had received a single prophylactic dose of 1.5 g cefuroxime before joint replacement. We compared them with prospectively collected data from 254 patients (117 knees and 137 hips) who received a single prophylactic dose of 2 g flucloxacillin and a height- and gender-determined dose of gentamicin. The primary outcome measure was any new renal impairment as graded by clinically validated criteria.

We identified four patients (1.69%) in the cefuroxime group who developed renal impairment. All four had mild impairment and all renal function was normal by the third post-operative day. The incidence of new-onset renal impairment was significantly higher in the flucloxacillin-and-gentamicin group at 9.45% (24 patients) (p < 0.001). Three of these patients remained with acute renal impairment after a week, although the serum creatinine levels in all subsequently returned to normal.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:395–8.
Reconstruction of massive uncontained acetabular defects using allograft with cage or ring reinforcement
Authors: Abolghasemian M. , Sadeghi Naini M. , Tangsataporn S. , Lee P. , Backstein D. , Safir O. , Kuzyk P. , Gross A. E.
Published: March 2014

We retrospectively reviewed 44 consecutive patients (50 hips) who underwent acetabular re-revision after a failed previous revision that had been performed using structural or morcellised allograft bone, with a cage or ring for uncontained defects. Of the 50 previous revisions, 41 cages and nine rings were used with allografts for 14 minor-column and 36 major-column defects. We routinely assessed the size of the acetabular bone defect at the time of revision and re-revision surgery. This allowed us to assess whether host bone stock was restored. We also assessed the outcome of re-revision surgery in these circumstances by means of radiological characteristics, rates of failure and modes of failure. We subsequently investigated the factors that may affect the potential for the restoration of bone stock and the durability of the re-revision reconstruction using multivariate analysis.

At the time of re-revision, there were ten host acetabula with no significant defects, 14 with contained defects, nine with minor-column, seven with major-column defects and ten with pelvic discontinuity. When bone defects at re-revision were compared with those at the previous revision, there was restoration of bone stock in 31 hips, deterioration of bone stock in nine and remained unchanged in ten. This was a significant improvement (p <  0.001). Morselised allografting at the index revision was not associated with the restoration of bone stock.

In 17 hips (34%), re-revision was possible using a simple acetabular component without allograft, augments, rings or cages. There were 47 patients with a mean follow-up of 70 months (6 to 146) available for survival analysis. Within this group, the successful cases had a minimum follow-up of two years after re-revision. There were 22 clinical or radiological failures (46.7%), 18 of which were due to aseptic loosening. The five and ten year Kaplan–Meier survival rate was 75% (95% CI, 60 to 86) and 56% (95% CI, 40 to 70) respectively with aseptic loosening as the endpoint. The rate of aseptic loosening was higher for hips with pelvic discontinuity (p = 0.049) and less when the allograft had been in place for longer periods (p = 0.040).

The use of a cage or ring over structural allograft bone for massive uncontained defects in acetabular revision can restore host bone stock and facilitate subsequent re-revision surgery to a certain extent.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:319–24.
The rate of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in patients undergoing elective Ilizarov surgery and the cost of chemical prophylaxis
Authors: Ferguson J. Y. , Sutherland M. , Pandit H. G. , McNally M.
Published: March 2014

Recent recommendations by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) suggest that all patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery should be assessed for the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Little is known about the incidence of symptomatic VTE after elective external fixation. We studied a consecutive series of adult patients who had undergone elective Ilizarov surgery without routine pharmacological prophylaxis to establish the incidence of symptomatic VTE.

A review of a prospectively maintained database of consecutive patients who were treated between October 1998 and February 2011 identified 457 frames in 442 adults whose mean age was 42.6 years (16.0 to 84.6). There were 425 lower limb and 32 upper limb frames. The mean duration of treatment was 25.7 weeks (1.6 to 85.3).

According to NICE guidelines all the patients had at least one risk factor for VTE, 246 had two, 172 had three and 31 had four or more.

One patient (0.23%) developed a pulmonary embolus after surgery and was later found to have an inherited thrombophilia. There were 27 deaths, all unrelated to VTE.

The cost of providing VTE prophylaxis according to NICE guidelines in this group of patients would be £89 493.40 (£195.80 per patient) even if the cheapest recommended medication was used.

The rate of symptomatic VTE after Ilizarov surgery was low despite using no pharmacological prophylaxis. This study leads us to question whether NICE guidelines are applicable to these patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:426–30.
The use of the transverse acetabular ligament for determining the orientation of the components in total hip replacement
Authors: Meermans G. , Van Doorn W. J. , Koenraadt K. , Kats J.
Published: March 2014

The orientation of the acetabular component can influence both the short- and long-term outcomes of total hip replacement (THR). We performed a prospective, randomised, controlled trial of two groups, comprising of 40 patients each, in order to compare freehand introduction of the component with introduction using the transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) as a reference for anteversion. Anteversion and inclination were measured on pelvic radiographs.

With respect to anteversion, in the freehand group 22.5% of the components were outside the safe zone versus 0% in the transverse acetabular ligament group (p = 0.002). The mean angle of anteversion in the freehand group was 21° (2° to 35°) which was significantly higher compared with 17° (2° to 25°) in the TAL group (p = 0.004). There was a significant difference comparing the variations of both groups (p = 0.008).

With respect to inclination, in the freehand group 37.5% of the components were outside the safe zone versus 20% in the TAL group (p = 0.14). There was no significant difference regarding the accuracy or variation of the angle of inclination when comparing the two groups.

The transverse acetabular ligament may be used to obtain the appropriate anteversion when introducing the acetabular component during THR, but not acetabular component inclination.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:312–18.
The weekend effect
Authors: Thomas C. J. , Smith R. P. , Uzoigwe C. E. , Braybrooke J. R.
Published: March 2014

We retrospectively reviewed 2989 consecutive patients with a mean age of 81 (21 to 105) and a female to male ratio of 5:2 who were admitted to our hip fracture unit between July 2009 and February 2013. We compared weekday and weekend admission and weekday and weekend surgery 30-day mortality rates for hip fractures treated both surgically and conservatively. After adjusting for confounders, weekend admission was independently and significantly associated with a rise in 30-day mortality (odds ratio (OR) 1.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02 to 1.9; p = 0.039) for patients undergoing hip fracture surgery. There was no increase in mortality associated with weekend surgery (OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.8 to 1.7; p = 0.39). All hip fracture patients, whether managed surgically or conservatively, were more likely to die as an inpatient when admitted at the weekend (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.80; p = 0.032), despite our unit having a comparatively low overall inpatient mortality (8.7%). Hip fracture patients admitted over the weekend appear to have a greater risk of death despite having a consultant-led service.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:373–8.
Valgus subsidence of the tibial component in cementless Oxford unicompartmental knee replacement
Authors: Liddle A. D. , Pandit H. G. , Jenkins C. , Lobenhoffer P. , Jackson W. F. M. , Dodd C. A. F. , Murray D. W.
Published: March 2014

The cementless Oxford unicompartmental knee replacement has been demonstrated to have superior fixation on radiographs and a similar early complication rate compared with the cemented version. However, a small number of cases have come to our attention where, after an apparently successful procedure, the tibial component subsides into a valgus position with an increased posterior slope, before becoming well-fixed. We present the clinical and radiological findings of these six patients and describe their natural history and the likely causes. Two underwent revision in the early post-operative period, and in four the implant stabilised and became well-fixed radiologically with a good functional outcome.

This situation appears to be avoidable by minor modifications to the operative technique, and it appears that it can be treated conservatively in most patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:345–9.
The spectrum of fractures in the elderly
Authors: Court-Brown C. M. , Clement N. D. , Duckworth A. D. , Aitken S. , Biant L. C. , McQueen M. M.
Published: March 2014

Fractures in patients aged ≥ 65 years constitute an increasing burden on health and social care and are associated with a high morbidity and mortality. There is little accurate information about the epidemiology of fractures in the elderly. We have analysed prospectively collected data on 4786 in- and out-patients who presented with a fracture over two one-year periods. Analysis shows that there are six patterns of the incidence of fractures in patients aged ≥ 65 years. In males six types of fracture increase in incidence after the age of 65 years and 11 types increase in females aged over 65 years. Five types of fracture decrease in incidence after the age of 65 years. Multiple fractures increase in incidence in both males and females aged ≥ 65 years, as do fractures related to falls.

Analysis of the incidence of fractures, together with life expectancy, shows that the probability of males and females aged ≥ 65 years having a fracture during the rest of their life is 18.5% and 52.0%, respectively. The equivalent figures for males and females aged ≥ 80 years are 13.3% and 34.8%, respectively.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:366–72.
Interteaching: Its effects on exam scores in a compressed-schedule format
Authors: Zayac Ryan , Paulk Amber L
Published: March 2014

Although previous research has found interteaching to be an effective form of instruction, all of the currently published data have been collected in courses that have allowed for a minimum of 48 hours between class sessions. In the current study, we examined the effectiveness of interteaching compared to traditional lecture during a six week summer session of a behavior modification course. Two non-concurrent sections of the behavior modification course were taught during which the instructor alternated between interteaching and traditional lecture. These courses were counterbalanced, such that when material from one section was covered using an interteaching approach, the same material in the other section was presented using a traditional lecture. Unlike previous studies, students did not score higher on exams following interteaching sessions. Nevertheless, students did indicate that they found interteaching to be beneficial. Interpretations of these results, the social validity responses, practical implications, and recommendations for additional research are discussed.
US elementary preservice teachers’ experiences while teaching to students in Taiwan
Authors: Lu Hsiu-Lien , Soares Lina
Published: March 2014

The idea to prepare prospective teachers to teach in increasingly diverse US schools still raises a number of questions about how an international student teaching experience can be important and beneficial to student learning. What do preservice teachers perceive to be the benefits from an international student teaching experience? What do preservice teachers perceive as challenges during an international student teaching experience? This paper shares findings from a phenomenological study of four U.S. elementary preservice teachers’ experiences during a five-week international student teaching opportunity in Taiwan. The findings of this study support the scholarship of teaching and learning that is grounded in the quest to understand the connection between students’ experiences and learning (Hutchings, 1999). The findings could further provide insights into the implementation process and the support that student teachers need in order to gain a successful experience from an international student teaching opportunity provided by the teacher education program.
List-mode reconstruction in 2D strip PET
Authors: Białas Piotr , Kowal Jakub , Strzelecki Adam , Bednarski Tomasz , Czerwiński Eryk , Giergiel Krzysztof , Kapłon Łukasz , Kochanowski Andrzej , Korcyl Grzegorz , Kowalski Paweł , Kozik Tomasz , Krzemień Wojciech , Molenda Marcin , Moskal Ines , Moskal Paweł , Niedźwiecki Szymon , Pałka Marek , Pawlik Monika , Raczyński Lech , Rudy Zbigniew , Salabura Piotr , Sharma Neha G. , Silarski Michał , Słomski Artur , Smyrski Jerzy , Szymański Konrad , Wiślicki Wojciech , Witkowski Piotr , Zieliński Marcin , Zoń Natalia
Published: March 2014

Using a theory of list-mode maximum likelihood expectation-maximization (MLEM) algorithm, in this contribution, we present a derivation of the system response kernel for a novel positron emission tomography (PET) detector based on plastic scintillators.
Trigger-less and reconfigurable data acquisition system for positron emission tomography
Authors: Korcyl Grzegorz , Moskal Paweł , Bednarski Tomasz , Białas Piotr , Czerwiński Eryk , Kapłon Łukasz , Kochanowski Andrzej , Kowal Jakub , Kowalski Paweł , Kozik Tomasz , Krzemień Wojciech , Molenda Marcin , Niedźwiecki Szymon , Pałka Marek , Pawlik Monika , Raczyński Lech , Rudy Zbigniew , Salabura Piotr , Gupta-Sharma Neha , Silarski Michał , Słomski Artur , Smyrski Jerzy , Strzelecki Adam , Wiślicki Wojciech , Zieliński Marcin , Zoń Natalia
Published: March 2014

This article is focused on data acquisition system (DAQ) designed especially to be used in positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computed tomography. The system allows for continuous registration of analog signals during measurement. It has been designed to optimize registration and processing of the information carried by signals from the detector system in PET scanner. The processing does not require any rejection of data with a trigger system. The proposed system possesses also an ability to implement various data analysis algorithms that can be performed in real time during data collection.
Improved interfacial and impact properties of carbon fiber/epoxy composites through grafting hyperbranched polyglycerols on a carbon fiber surface
Authors: Sui Kaiqiang , Zhang Qingbo , Liu Yingying , Tan Lei , Liu Li
Published: March 2014

Grafting hyperbranched polyglycerols onto a carbon fiber surface is done in an attempt to improve the interfacial and impact properties between carbon fiber and epoxy resin. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and dynamic contact angle analysis were performed to characterize the carbon fibers. The TGA result shows that the mass fraction of the hyperbranched polyglycerols grafted onto the carbon fibers surface was 9.03%. The SEM results indicate that the hyperbranched polyglycerols have been grafted onto the carbon surface and that the surface roughness of the carbon fiber significantly increased. The XPS result indicates that oxygen-containing functional groups obviously increased after modification. Dynamic contact angle analysis indicates that the surface energy of modified carbon fibers increased significantly compared with the untreated ones. Results of the mechanical property tests show that interfacial shear strength increased from 59.86 to 80.16 MPa, interlaminar shear strength increased from 57.57 to 73.49 MPa and impact strength simultaneously increased from 2.52 to 3.52 J.
Kinetic study of the stabilizing effect of aluminum trihydroxide on thermal degradation of epoxy resin
Authors: Wang Jiangbo , Fang Jialin , Wang Chengwei , Li Yongyou , Huang Mengjiao
Published: March 2014

The stabilizing effect of epoxy resin (EP)/aluminum trihydroxide (ATH) was measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in an N2 flow. The Kissinger and Flynn-Wall-Ozawa methods were used to determine the activation energy of non-isothermal degradation at different stages. The results showed that there was a slight increase in activation energy after ATH was added. It confirms the fire-retardant effect of ATH on the thermal degradation behaviour of pure EP. The Flynn-Wall-Ozawa method showed that flame-retardant ATH remarkably enhanced the activation energy of the thermal degradation process for EP, albeit the conversion rate being only 10%, which demonstrated the stabilization of ATH to the char layer of EP.
The effect of switchable ionic liquid (SIL) treatment on the composition and crystallinity of birch chips (Betula pendula) using a novel alkanol amine-organic superbase-derived SIL
Authors: Anugwom Ikenna , Eta Valeri , Mäki-Arvela Päivi , Virtanen Pasi , Lahtinen Manu , Mikkola Jyri-Pekka
Published: March 2014

Two-step treatment of birch chips (Betula pendula) was tested using diethanolamine (DEA)-1,8-diazabicyclo-[5.4.0]-undec-7-ene (DBU)-CO2-switchable ionic liquid (SIL), resulting in a 23% weight reduction in 24 h. The weight of the chips was reduced to 32% of their initial weight upon the second treatment with fresh SIL. SIL to wood ratio of 5:1, at 100°C for 24 h, without stirring, was applied in both steps. The relative amount of wood lignin reduced from 24% to 14% after two treatment cycles. The relative amount of cellulose of the undissolved fraction after SIL treatment increased from 43% (native birch wood) to 68% after the second cycle. Also, the undissolved material was efficiently fibrillated. The dissolved materials recovered from spent SIL, after treatment, contained high xylan content, about 90% of the total hemicelluloses, which was 85% of the recovered material. The powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed that the crystallinity of the undissolved material increased slightly, indicating dissolution of the amorphous material. Moreover, transformation of cellulose form I to form II in the remaining undissolved chips was not observed.
Characterization of a type D1A EUL-related lectin from rice expressed in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Al Atalah Bassam , Vanderschaeghe Dieter , Bloch Yehudi , Proost Paul , Plas Kirsten , Callewaert Nico , Savvides Savvas N. , Van Damme Els J.M.
Published: March 2014

OrysaEULD1A is one of the five EUL genes in rice (Oryza sativa) encoding a putative carbohydrate-binding protein belonging to the family of Euonymus related lectins (EUL). The OrysaEULD1A sequence comprises two highly similar EUL domains (91% sequence similarity and 72% sequence identity) separated by a 23 amino acid linker sequence and preceded by a 19 amino acid N-terminal sequence. In the present study, the full-length protein OrysaEULD1A as well as its individual domains OrysaEULD1A domain 1 and 2 were expressed in Pichia
pastoris. After purification of the recombinant proteins, their carbohydrate-binding specificity was analyzed and compared. Interestingly, all recombinant lectins showed clear specificity towards galactosylated structures. Furthermore, all recombinant proteins agglutinated red blood cells, indicating that the full-length protein OrysaEULD1A and its domains are true lectins. These results taken together with data previously reported for single-domain EUL proteins indicate that although the amino acids – responsible for the formation of the carbohydrate-binding site – are identical for all EUL proteins in rice, these lectins show different carbohydrate specificities. This promiscuity of the carbohydrate-binding site can be attributed to gene divergence.
Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, furans, and biphenyls (PCDDs/PCDFs and PCBs) in breast milk and early childhood growth and IGF1
Authors: Wohlfahrt-Veje Christine , Audouze Karine , Brunak Søren , Antignac Jean Philippe , le Bizec Bruno , Juul Anders , Skakkebæk Niels E , Main Katharina Maria
Published: March 2014

Experimental studies have shown that dioxin-like chemicals may interfere with aspects of the endocrine system including growth. However, human background population studies are, however, scarce. We aimed to investigate whether early exposure of healthy infants to dioxin-like chemicals was associated with changes in early childhood growth and serum IGF1. In 418 maternal breast milk samples of Danish children (born 1997–2001) from a longitudinal cohort, we measured polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans, and polychlorinated biphenyls (pg or ng/g lipid) and calculated total toxic equivalent (total TEQ). SDS and SDS changes over time (ΔSDS) were calculated for height, weight, BMI, and skinfold fat percentage at 0, 3, 18, and 36 months of age. Serum IGF1 was measured at 3 months. We adjusted for confounders using multivariate regression analysis. Estimates (in parentheses) correspond to a fivefold increase in total TEQ. TEQ levels in breast milk increased significantly with maternal age and fish consumption and decreased with maternal birth year, parity, and smoking. Total TEQ was associated with lower fat percentage (−0.45 s.d., CI: −0.89; −0.04), non-significantly with lower weight and length at 0 months, accelerated early height growth (increased ΔSDS) (ΔSDS 0–18 months: +0.77 s.d., CI: 0.34; 1.19) and early weight increase (ΔSDS 0–18: +0.52 s.d., CI: 0.03; 1.00), and increased IGF1 serum levels at 3 months (+13.9 ng/ml, CI: 2.3; 25.5). Environmental exposure to dioxin-like chemicals was associated with being skinny at birth and with higher infant levels of circulating IGF1 as well as accelerated early childhood growth (rapid catch-up growth).
Flow cytometry in the diagnosis of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Pállinger Éva , Erdélyi Dániel , Kovács Gábor , Kriván Gergely , Korponay Zsuzsanna , Fekete György , Szabó András , Falus András , Dérfalvi Beáta
Published: March 2014

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a multisystem inflammation, generated by the uncontrolled and excessive activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. Severe immunodeficiency and generalized macrophage activation can often be detected in the background of this life threatening disorder. It is classified as a primary immunodeficiency. Functional abnormalities of the perforin protein or defects in granule secretory mechanisms are caused by gene mutations in most cases. Diagnostic criteria of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis are the following: fever, splenomegaly, cytopenias affecting at least two of the 3 lineages in peripheral blood, hypertriglyceridemia and hyperferritinemia, elevated serum level of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sCD25), hypofibrinogenemia, hemophagocytosis in bone marrow and decreased cytotoxic T cell and natural killer cell activity. In this case report the authors summarize the utility of functional flow cytometry in the diagnosis of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Using flow cytometry, elevated intracellular perforin content, decreased killing activity of cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells, and impaired cell surface expression of CD107a (LAMP1 protein) from in vitro stimulated blood lymphocytes were detected. Abnormal secretion of perforin was also demonstrated. Genetic testing revealed mutation of the MUNC 13-4 gene, which confirmed the base of the abnormal flow cytometric findings. This case report demonstrates the value of functional flow cytometry in the rapid diagnosis of genetically determined hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, a condition in which early diagnosis is critical for optimal management. The authors emphasize the significance of functional flow cytometry in the differential diagnosis of immunodeficiencies. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(10), 389–395.
Improved Biphasic Pulsing Power Efficiency with Pt-Ir Coated Microelectrodes
Authors: Petrossians Artin , Davuluri Navya , Whalen John J. , Mansfeld Florian , Weiland James D.
Published: March 2014

Neuromodulation devices such as deep brain stimulators (DBS), spinal cord stimulators (SCS) and cochlear implants (CIs) use electrodes in contact with tissue to deliver electrical pulses to targeted cells. In general, the neuromodulation industry has been evolving towards smaller, less invasive devices. Improving power efficiency of these devices can reduce battery storage requirements. Neuromodulation devices can realize significant power savings if the impedance to charge transfer at the electrode-tissue interface can be reduced. High electrochemical impedance at the surface of stimulation microelectrodes results in larger polarization voltages. Decreasing this polarization voltage response can reduce power required to deliver the current pulse. One approach to doing this is to reduce the electrochemical impedance at the electrode surface. Previously we have reported on a novel electrochemically deposited 60:40% platinum-iridium (Pt-Ir) electrode material that lowered the electrode impedance by two orders of magnitude or more.

This study compares power consumption of an electrochemically deposited Pt-Ir stimulating microelectrode to that of standard Pt-Ir probe microelectrode produced using conventional techniques. Both electrodes were tested usingin-vitroin phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution andin-vivo(live rat) models.
Urban warming trumps natural enemy regulation of herbivorous pests
Authors: Dale Adam G. , Frank Steven D.
Published: March 2014

Trees provide ecosystem services that counter negative effects of urban habitats on human and environmental health. Unfortunately, herbivorous arthropod pests are often more abundant on urban than rural trees, reducing tree growth, survival, and ecosystem services. Previous research where vegetation complexity was reduced has attributed elevated urban pest abundance to decreased regulation by natural enemies. However, reducing vegetation complexity, particularly the density of overstory trees, also makes cities hotter than natural habitats. We ask how urban habitat characteristics influence an abiotic factor, temperature, and a biotic factor, natural enemy abundance, in regulating the abundance of an urban forest pest, the gloomy scale, (Melanaspis tenebricosa). We used a map of surface temperature to select red maple trees (Acer rubrum) at warmer and cooler sites in Raleigh, North Carolina, USA. We quantified habitat complexity by measuring impervious surface cover, local vegetation structural complexity, and landscape scale vegetation cover around each tree. Using path analysis, we determined that impervious surface (the most important habitat variable) increased scale insect abundance by increasing tree canopy temperature, rather than by reducing natural enemy abundance or percent parasitism. As a mechanism for this response, we found that increasing temperature significantly increases scale insect fecundity and contributes to greater population increase. Specifically, adult female M. tenebricosa egg sets increased by approximately 14 eggs for every 1°C increase in temperature. Climate change models predict that the global climate will increase by 2–3°C in the next 50–100 years, which we found would increase scale insect abundance by three orders of magnitude. This result supports predictions that urban and natural forests will face greater herbivory in the future, and suggests that a primary cause could be direct, positive effects of warming on herbivore fitness rather than altered trophic interactions.
Corn Response to Enhanced‐Efficiency Nitrogen Fertilizers and Poultry Litter
Authors: Sistani K. R. , Jn-Baptiste M. , Simmons J. R.
Published: March 2014

Nitrogen is one of the most important and costly nutrient inputs for crop production. Farmers are looking for better management practice to enhance production and reduce environmental impact. A 3‐yr field study was established to examine corn (Zea maysL.) grain yield and nutrient uptake resulting from application of 168 kg N ha−1as urea (U), urea‐ammonium nitrate (UAN), ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), poultry litter (PL), and similar rate of commercially available enhanced‐efficiency nitrogen fertilizers (EENF) as follow: polymer‐coated urea (ESN), SuperU, UAN + AgrotainPlus, and PL + AgrotainPlus in a no‐till corn production. Treatments were replicated four times in a completely randomized block design from 2009 to 2011. Aboveground plant biomass was harvested at physiological maturity each year to determine dry matter and nutrient uptake. Soil samples were taken three times per year to evaluate the status of the selected nutrients in soil. There was a significant increase in corn aboveground dry matter and grain yield with application of 168 kg N ha−1compared with control treatment. There was no significant difference in corn grain yield or dry matter among the N sources. However, averaged across all N sources, corn grain yield (10.1 Mg ha−1) in 2009 was greater than grain yield (7.5 Mg ha−1) in 2010 and 2011, mainly due to higher rainfall and better distribution in 2009. Addition of AgrotainPlus to UAN and PL did not influence corn grain yield. Additional research is needed to evaluate EENFs under different climatic conditions and different management practices.
Organic Amendment and Transitional Cropping System Effects on Crop Diseases
Authors: Lee Marzano Shin-Yi , Wander Michelle M. , Villamil Maria B. , Ugarte Carmen M. , Zaborski Edmond R. , Eastburn Darin M.
Published: March 2014

Organic inputs have been suggested to have either suppressive or conducive effects on levels of plant diseases. In this study, we compared effects of organic matter amendments and transitional cropping systems on plant diseases during the transition from conventional to organic agricultural production and 2 yr following. During the 3‐yr transition, organic amendments included raw dairy manure, composted dairy manure, and non‐amended treatment superimposed on three cropping systems (perennial pasture, cash grain crops, and vegetable crops). Two years of post‐transition crops included tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum) in the first year and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] in the second. During transition, raw manure amendments resulted in higher levels of diseases caused by some biotrophic pathogens, including rusts in corn (Zea mays L.) and orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). However, raw manure applications were also found to suppress some diseases caused by necrotrophic pathogens, including anthracnose and Septoria leaf spot in tomato. Manure applications promoted higher soybean yields. Powdery mildew of cucurbits (Curbubita moschata Duchesne) was suppressed by composted manure. After transition, tomato plants grown in plots previously under the vegetable system had the highest levels of anthracnose, and soybean grown in plots previously in the pasture system had the highest levels of bacterial pustule, despite the fact that these same plots produced the highest yields in soybean. Yield benefits resulting from applications of raw manure to a pasture transition system may be attractive for farmers, but disease management strategies will need to be considered to prevent increased disease levels.
Kentucky Bluegrass Response to Establishment Methods and Cultural Practices in a Sand‐Based System and Native Soil
Authors: Anderson Joshua D. , Rimi Filippo , Richardson Michael D. , Macolino Stefano , Karcher Douglas E.
Published: March 2014

The use of sod to establish turf on sand‐based root zones often leads to layering of contrasting soil textures within the root zone, causing adverse effects on soil drainage and moisture. These issues may be alleviated by alternative establishment methods and post‐establishment cultural practices. Objectives of this study were to test the effects of sod establishment method, aerification, and sand topdressing on water infiltration, soil moisture, root mass, and divot resistance of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) on sand‐capped and native soil root zones. In 2010, cultivar Midnight Kentucky bluegrass was established in Fayetteville, AR, using standard (soil‐based), washed, and pre‐harvest, core‐aerified sod on a sand‐capped and a native silt loam root zone. After establishment, core aerification treatments (non‐cultivated vs. 20% surface area affected annually) and topdressing treatments (0.6‐cm sand applied one vs. four times yr−1) were imposed. The washed sod resulted in lower volumetric water content (VWC) (–3 to 4%) for both the root zones in 2010 and only for the sand‐capped system in 2011. Core‐aerification improved water infiltration rate (13% increase) and reduced the VWC (–44% at end of study) of the sand‐capped root zone. The effects of cultural practices on root mass density and divot resistance were of limited practical importance. Core‐aerification and topdressing appeared effective for managing layered root zones and would likely improve the long‐term quality of golf and sports turfs.