bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biosedimentary record of postglacial coastal dynamics: high‐resolution sequence stratigraphy from the northern Tuscan coast (Italy)
Authors: Amorosi Alessandro , Rossi Veronica , Scarponi Daniele , Vaiani Stefano Claudio , Ghosh Anupam
Published: April 2014

Integrating analysis of the benthic palaeoecological record with multivariate ordination techniques represents a powerful synergy able to provide an improved characterization of coastal depositional facies in a sequence stratigraphical perspective. Through quantitative analysis of benthic foraminifer, ostracod and mollusc associations from the postglacial succession of Core M3 (Arno coastal plain, Tuscany, Italy), and application of detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) to the mollusc sub‐data set, we offer a refined picture of stratigraphical variations in faunal content from a paralic depositional setting, and reconstruct the palaeoenvironmental gradients that account for such variations. Despite distinct ecological behaviours, and taphonomic and sedimentological constraints, a strong ecological control on meio‐ and macrofaunal biofacies and taxa turnover is documented across the study succession. Amongst all possible mechanisms that may play a role in ‘shaping’ fossil distribution, the ecological signal driven by salinity represents the most prominent factor controlling the composition of fossil associations in the cored succession. Molluscs can even provide outstanding quantitative estimates of palaeosalinity along the sampled core. When plotted stratigraphically, the three fossil sub‐data sets show consistent patterns of vertical evolution that enable prompt identification of the key surfaces for sequence stratigraphical interpretation in otherwise lithologically indistinguishable deposits. The concomitant maximum richness of species with strong marine affinity, paralleled by the highest DCA salinity estimates, allows recognition of the maximum flooding zone, dated to ∼7.7 cal. ka BP, within a homogeneous succession of outer lagoon clays. These clays are sandwiched between early transgressive, swamp to inner lagoon deposits and overlying prograding coastal−alluvial plain facies.
Hypotensive effects and performance responses between different resistance training intensities and exercise orders in apparently health women
Authors: Bentes Claudio M. , Costa Pablo B. , Neto Gabriel R. , Costa e Silva Gabriel V. , de Salles Belmiro F. , Miranda Humberto L. , Novaes Jefferson S.
Published: April 2014

To compare the hypotensive effect and performance responses between different resistance training intensities and different exercise orders in apparently healthy women, thirteen apparently healthy women performed four resistance training sessions in randomized order. One group performed the resistance training exercises with 60% of 1RM (SeqA60%): leg press (LG), chest press (CP), leg extension (LE), lat pull down (PD), leg curl (LC) and biceps curl (BC). Another group performed the resistance training exercises with 80% of 1RM (SeqA80%) with the same exercise order. Two other groups performed the resistance training exercises with 60% (SeqB60%) and 80% of 1RM (SeqB80%), however, in another sequence of exercises: CP, PD, BC or LG, LE, LC. The blood pressure was measured before, and at every 15 min until 60 min postexercise. The different intensities and different exercise orders resulted in a significant hypotensive effect in systolic and diastolic blood pressures that remained until 15 min. In addition, significant reductions in systolic blood pressure were observed at 30 min for SeqA in both intensities and for SeqB with intensities of 80% of 1RM. However, there was no significant difference between intensities and different prescription orders (P>0·05). Although the current study showed significant decreases in systolic and diastolic blood pressures after different resistance training sessions, the manipulation of intensity and exercise sequence, such as those used in the present study, was not able to generate significant changes in the duration and magnitude of hypotensive effect.
A more definitive measure of upper limb capacity for children with unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Charles Jeanne
Published: April 2014

This commentary is on the original article by Geerdink et al. on pages 580–586 of this issue.
Cross‐modal decoupling in temporal attention
Authors: Mühlberg Stefanie , Oriolo Giovanni , Soto‐Faraco Salvador
Published: April 2014

Prior studies have repeatedly reported behavioural benefits to events occurring at attended, compared to unattended, points in time. It has been suggested that, as for spatial orienting, temporal orienting of attention spreads across sensory modalities in a synergistic fashion. However, the consequences of cross‐modal temporal orienting of attention remain poorly understood. One challenge is that the passage of time leads to an increase in event predictability throughout a trial, thus making it difficult to interpret possible effects (or lack thereof). Here we used a design that avoids complete temporal predictability to investigate whether attending to a sensory modality (vision or touch) at a point in time confers beneficial access to events in the other, non‐attended, sensory modality (touch or vision, respectively). In contrast to previous studies and to what happens with spatial attention, we found that events in one (unattended) modality do not automatically benefit from happening at the time point when another modality is expected. Instead, it seems that attention can be deployed in time with relative independence for different sensory modalities. Based on these findings, we argue that temporal orienting of attention can be cross‐modally decoupled in order to flexibly react according to the environmental demands, and that the efficiency of this selective decoupling unfolds in time.
Nestin expression and reactive phenomena in the mouse cochlea after kanamycin ototoxicity
Authors: Martone Tiziana , Giordano Pamela , Dagna Federico , Carulli Daniela , Albera Roberto , Rossi Ferdinando
Published: April 2014

Following injury to the adult mammalian cochlea, hair cells cannot be spontaneously replaced. Nonetheless, the postnatal cochlea contains progenitor cells, distinguished by the expression of nestin, which are able to proliferate and form neurospheres in vitro. Such resident progenitors might be endowed with reparative potential. However, to date little is known about their behaviour in situ following hair cell injury. Using adult mice and ex vivo cochlear cultures, we sought to determine whether: (i) resident cochlear progenitors respond to kanamycin ototoxicity and compensate for it; and (ii) the reparative potential of cochlear progenitors can be stimulated by the addition of growth factors. Morphological changes of cochlear tissue, expression of nestin mRNA and protein and cell proliferation were investigated in these models. Our observations show that ototoxic injury has modest effects on nestin expression and cell proliferation. On the other hand, the addition of growth factors to the injured cochlear explants induced the appearance of nestin‐positive cells in the supporting cell area of the organ of Corti. The vast majority of nestin‐expressing cells, however, were not proliferating. Growth factors also had a robust stimulatory effect on axonal sprouting and the proliferative response, which was more pronounced in injured cochleae. On the whole, our findings indicate that nestin expression after kanamycin ototoxicity is related to tissue reactivity rather than activation of resident progenitors attempting to replace the lost receptors. In addition, administration of growth factors significantly enhances tissue remodelling, suggesting that cochlear repair may be promoted by the exogenous application of regeneration‐promoting substances.
Collagen gels and the ‘Bornstein legacy’: from a substrate for tissue culture to cell culture systems and biomaterials for tissue regeneration
Authors: García‐Gareta Elena
Published: April 2014

As collagen is the main structural component of connective tissues and skin, much effort was made in the past and still today to use it in cell culture applications. Moreover, collagen biomaterials are widely used in tissue regeneration, including the treatment of burns and chronic wounds. The great implications of the research carried out by Bornstein, Ehrmann and Gey on collagen preparations in the 1950s for cell culture and more recently tissue engineering and regeneration are described in this commentary. Specifically, it is explored why the 1958 paper on ‘Reconstituted Rat‐Tail Collagen Used as Substrate for Tissue Cultures on Coverslips in Maximow Slides and Roller Tubes’ by M. B. Bornstein has made an invaluable contribution to the field.
Novel TBL1XR1, EPHA7 and SLFN12 mutations in a Sezary syndrome patient discovered by whole exome sequencing
Authors: Andersson Emma , Eldfors Samuli , Edgren Henrik , Ellonen Pekka , Väkevä Liisa , Ranki Annamari , Mustjoki Satu
Published: April 2014

Sezary syndrome (SS) is an aggressive leukaemic variant of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. Recurrent chromosomal aberrations have been found in SS, but the whole genetic mutation spectrum is unknown. To better understand the molecular pathogenesis of SS, we performed exome sequencing, copy number variation (CNV) and gene expression analysis of primary SS cells. In our index patient with typical SS, we found novel somatic missense mutations in TBL1XR1, EPHA7 and SLFN12 genes in addition to larger chromosomal changes. The mutations are located in biologically relevant genes affecting apoptosis and T‐cell maturation. They may play a role in the pathobiology of the disease, but no recurrent mutations were discovered in nine additional patients with SS studied. Thus, screening of larger patient cohorts is needed to confirm their prevalence and biological significance in SS.
Gluteal and abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue depots as stroma cell source: gluteal cells display increased adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation potentials
Authors: Iwen Karl Alexander , Priewe Anna‐Christin , Winnefeld Marc , Rose Christian , Siemers Frank , Rohwedel Jürgen , Cakiroglu Figen , Lehnert Hendrik , Schepky Andreas , Klein Johannes , Kramer Jan
Published: April 2014

Human adipose‐derived stroma cells (ADSCs) have successfully been employed in explorative therapeutic studies. Current evidence suggests that ADSCs are unevenly distributed in subcutaneous adipose tissue; therefore, the anatomical origin of ADSCs may influence clinical outcomes. This study was designed to investigate proliferation and differentiation capacities of ADSCs from the gluteal and abdominal depot of 8 females. All had normal BMI (22.01 ± 0.39 kg/m2) and waist circumference (81.13 ± 2.33 cm). Examination by physicians and analysis of 31 laboratory parameters did not reveal possibly confounding medical disorders. Gluteal and abdominal adipose tissue was sampled by en bloc resection on day 7 (±1) after the last menses. Histological examination did not reveal significant depot‐specific differences. As assessed by BrdU assay, proliferation of cells from both depots was similar after 24 h and analysis of 15 cell surface markers by flow cytometry identified the isolated cells as ADSCs, again without depot‐specific differences. ADSCs from both depots differentiated poorly to chondroblasts. Gluteal ADSCs displayed significantly higher adipogenic differentiation potential than abdominal cells. Osteogenic differentiation was most pronounced in gluteal cells, whereas differentiation of abdominal ADSCs was severely impaired. Our data demonstrate a depot‐specific difference in ADSC differentiation potential with abdominal cells failing to meet the criteria of multipotent ADSCs. This finding should be taken into account in future explorations of ADSC‐derived therapeutic strategies.
Interactions between metazoans, autotrophs, mixotrophs and bacterioplankton in nutrient‐depleted high DOC environments: a long‐term experiment
Authors: Jäger Christoph G. , Vrede Tobias , Persson Lennart , Jansson Mats
Published: April 2014

Humic lakes with a high external supply of DOC and low input of nutrients can often support a high biomass of metazoan zooplankton. In such lakes, autotrophic algae compete with bacteria for inorganic nutrients, but bacteria support mixotrophic growth. Consequently, planktonic communities are often dominated by mixotrophic flagellates, while obligate autotrophic phytoplankton occurs in low numbers for extended periods.

To test the importance of autotrophic phytoplankton and mixotrophic flagellates as food resources for metazoan grazers and, in turn, the feedback effects of grazers on basal food‐web interactions, we conducted a long‐term experiment where we simulated abiotic resource relationships of humic lakes (high DOC [glucose] and low P input). We examined the population dynamics of Daphnia galeata when inoculated in systems with autotrophic algae only, mixotrophic algae only and a mixture of autotrophic and mixotrophic algae, and how the systems changed after the inoculation of Daphnia. All combinations were run at high‐ and low‐light conditions to analyse the effects of light on food quantity and quality.

Daphnia grew to high densities only when mixotrophs were present at high‐light conditions and showed no or only weak growth at low‐light conditions or with autotrophs as the only food source.

Autotrophic algae and bacteria showed a strong competition for nutrients. Autotrophic algae were released from competition for nutrients after Daphnia grazed on bacteria, which led to a probable change of the bacteria community to less edible but less competitive taxa. As a consequence, there was a mutualistic interaction between autotrophs and mixotrophs before Daphnia were introduced which turned into competition after Daphnia inoculation.

We suggest that mixotrophic flagellates can be a critical resource for cladocerans and thereby also have a cascading effect on higher trophic levels, and cladocerans, in turn, have important indirect effects on basal planktonic food webs; hence, both might affect whole lake ecosystems.
Spatial leave‐one‐out cross‐validation for variable selection in the presence of spatial autocorrelation
Authors: Le Rest Kévin , Pinaud David , Monestiez Pascal , Chadoeuf Joël , Bretagnolle Vincent
Published: April 2014

Aim

Processes and variables measured in ecology are almost always spatially autocorrelated, potentially leading to the choice of overly complex models when performing variable selection. One way to solve this problem is to account for residual spatial autocorrelation (RSA) for each subset of variables considered and then use a classical model selection criterion such as the Akaike information criterion (AIC). However, this method can be laborious and it raises other concerns such as which spatial model to use or how to compare different spatial models. To improve the accuracy of variable selection in ecology, this study evaluates an alternative method based on a spatial cross‐validation procedure. Such a procedure is usually used for model evaluation but can also provide interesting outcomes for variable selection in the presence of spatial autocorrelation.

Innovation

We propose to use a special case of spatial cross‐validation, spatial leave‐one‐out (SLOO), giving a criterion equivalent to the AIC in the absence of spatial autocorrelation. SLOO only computes non‐spatial models and uses a threshold distance (equal to the range of RSA) to keep each point left out spatially independent from the others. We first provide some simulations to evaluate how SLOO performs compared with AIC. We then assess the robustness of SLOO on a large‐scale dataset. R software codes are provided for generalized linear models.

Main conclusions

The AIC was relevant for variable selection in the presence of RSA if the independent variables considered were not spatially autocorrelated. It otherwise failed because highly spatially autocorrelated variables were more often selected than others. Conversely, SLOO had similar performances whether the variables were themselves spatially autocorrelated or not. It was particularly useful when the range of RSA was small, which is a common property of spatial tools. SLOO appears to be a promising solution for selecting relevant variables from most ecological spatial datasets.
Adjustment of pre‐moult foraging strategies in Macaroni Penguins Eudyptes chrysolophus according to locality, sex and breeding status
Authors: Thiebot Jean‐Baptiste , Cherel Yves , Acqueberge Manon , Prudor Aurélien , Trathan Philip N. , Bost Charles‐André
Published: April 2014

The annual moult creates the highest physiological stress during a penguin's breeding‐cycle and is preceded by a period of hyperphagia at sea. Although crucial to individual survival, foraging strategies before moult have been little investigated in keystone marine consumers in the Southern Ocean. The Macaroni Penguin Eudyptes chrysolophus demonstrates how individuals may adjust their foraging strategies during this period in line with constraints such as potential intraspecific competition between localities, foraging ability between dimorphic sexes and timing at sea between breeding and non‐breeding population components. We recorded pre‐moult behaviour at sea for 22 Macaroni Penguins from Crozet and Kerguelen Islands (southern Indian Ocean) during 2009 and 2011, using light‐based geolocation and stable isotope analysis. Penguins were distributed in population‐specific oceanic areas with similar surface temperatures (3.5 °C) south of the archipelagos, where they foraged at comparable trophic levels based on stable isotopes of their blood. Bayesian ‘broken stick’ modelling with concurrent analysis of seawater temperature records from the animal‐borne devices showed that within each population, females remained 6 days longer than males in the colder waters before heading back towards their colonies. Finally, 17 other non‐breeding individuals that moulted earlier had a higher mean blood δ15N value than did post‐breeding birds, meaning that early moulters probably fed more on fish than did late moulters. Our findings of such adjustments in foraging strategies developed across locality, sex and breeding status help understanding of the species' contrasted pre‐moult biology across its range and its ecology in the non‐breeding period.
Significant effects of season and bird age on use of coppice woodland by songbirds
Authors: MacColl Andrew D. C. , du Feu Christopher R. , Wain Stephen P.
Published: April 2014

Woodland birds have experienced widespread population declines across Europe, resulting partly from a decrease in management practices such as coppicing. Increasing fuelwood demand may reverse the decline of coppicing, making it timely to attempt a fuller understanding of its effects. Here, the impact of coppicing on year‐round habitat use by adults and juveniles of 16 songbird species was quantified from a quasi‐experimental study over 32 years (1978–2009) in Treswell Wood, Nottinghamshire, UK. Habitat use was inferred using capture rates from more than 10 000 h of mist‐netting (> 25 000 captures) and detailed information on coppicing. Capture rates varied with coppice age in different ways: (1) increases as coppice aged (e.g. Marsh Tit Poecile palustris, juvenile Eurasian Treecreepers Certhia familiaris); (2) declines as coppice aged (e.g. Eurasian Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus, Great Tit Parus major); (3) peaks in capture rates at intermediate coppice age (i.e. 5–15 years) (e.g. Garden Warbler Sylvia borin, Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus, adult Treecreepers); and (4) a peak at intermediate ages, followed by a decline, before an increase in use again at the oldest coppice ages (i.e. > 20 years) (e.g. Common Blackbird Turdus merula, Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, Eurasian Bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula). Responses to coppice age were similar in different seasons, although Willow Tits Poecile montana showed little preference during breeding but avoided older coppice at other times. Juveniles and adults often differed in their responses to coppice age. The analyses reveal patterns in habitat use that are relevant to woodland management and conservation policy. They suggest that a mosaic of age structures in woodland is beneficial to a wide range of woodland species, and that management should consider the requirements of all age‐classes of birds at different times of year.
Malpractic in nursing: The experience in Turkey
Authors: Karadağ Gülendam , Ovayolu Özlem , Parlar Kiliç Serap , Ovayolu Nimet , Göllüce Aysun
Published: April 2014

This cross‐sectional study was conducted with 562 nurses to find out nurses' opinions and practices concerning medical errors and to measure their tendency to make medical mistakes. Data were collected using a questionnaire and Tendency for Medical Errors Scale and evaluated using Student's t and one‐way ANOVA tests. The average total score of the participating nurses was 4.4 ± 0.3. It was observed that 36.1% nurses made medical errors, and all of those nurses making mistakes have stated that they have made medication errors. It was found that nurses with higher education and working in the intensive care unit had a lower tendency, whereas those working in children's hospital had a higher tendency to make medical mistakes (P < 0.05). It might be recommended that the working conditions of nurses be improved, and nurses in general and particularly, those working with pediatric patients be given regular training to prevent drug administration errors.
Knowledge received by hospital patients—a factor connected with the patient‐centred quality of nursing care
Authors: Leino‐Kilpi Helena , Gröndahl Weronica , Pekonen Arja , Katajisto Jouko , Suhonen Riitta , Valkeapää Kirsi , Virtanen Heli , Salanterä Sanna
Published: April 2014

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate and analyse the connection between the level of quality of nursing care and knowledge received by patients (N = 266, n = 226), response rate was 85%. The data were collected using two structured instruments: one measuring the quality of nursing care experienced by patients (The Good Nursing Care Scale, GNCS) and one measuring the received knowledge of hospital patients (RKHP). The data were collected at one (out of five) Finnish university hospitals, in all medical wards during 5 weeks in 2009. A clear association between the level of the quality of nursing care and the level of received knowledge was found: on the total level of instruments, correlation was strong (r = 0.705). Support of empowerment (GNCS) had statistically significant strong correlation between biophysiological knowledge (RKHP), (r = 0.718), and experiential knowledge (r = 0.633), (P ≤ 0.01). Furthermore, there was a strong correlation between nursing activities and biophysiological knowledge (r = 0.637). Higher age, sufficient advance information and better self‐perceived health status were associated both with the level of the quality of nursing care and level of received knowledge. In the future, a special attention should be paid to the sufficient information for patients before their hospital stays.
A systematic review of time studies to assess the impact of patient transfers on nurse workload
Authors: Blay Nicole , Duffield Christine M , Gallagher Robyn , Roche Michael
Published: April 2014

Patients in hospital are increasingly being moved between clinical units and between bedspaces; however, the impact of patient transfers and bedspace moves on nurses' workload is not known. Time studies are an established observational research method that can be used to determine the duration of time taken to perform an activity or process.

This review systematically searched four databases for literature published between 2000 and 2013 for observational time study techniques and patient transfers as a nurse activity. Eleven publications from three countries were included in the review. All studies used timing techniques to explore nurse work associated with the transfer process.

The review highlights the duration of time spent by nurses on certain aspects of the transfer process. However, as few studies published results from timings, the impact on nurse time is likely to be higher than indicated. Further research is recommended.
Factors influencing evidence‐based nursing utilization intention in Korean practice nurses
Authors: Park Jee‐Won , Ahn Jeong‐Ah , Park Mi‐Mi
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to describe Korean nurses' perceptions, attitudes and utilization intention for evidence‐based nursing (EBN), and to explore what factors influence utilization intention. We conducted a cross‐sectional survey in 2012. Registered nurses directly involved in clinical practice were recruited at a medical centre in Korea. A total of 420 nurses completed a self‐report questionnaire. Results showed that participants reported moderate scores regarding their perceptions and attitudes towards EBN, and rated themselves as higher than the median for utilization intention. Furthermore, this study revealed that perceptions of and attitudes towards EBN, occupational view and previous EBN education were significant factors affecting utilization intention. Nurse educators and managers should encourage nurses to have better attitudes towards EBN, help them be more satisfied with their work and provide them with appropriate education for EBN to establish evidence‐based practice as a part of daily nursing care.
Effects of massage therapy on pain and anxiety arising from intrathecal therapy or bone marrow aspiration in children with cancer
Authors: Çelebioğlu Ayda , Gürol Ayşe , Yildirim Zuhal Keskin , Büyükavci Mustafa
Published: April 2014

Cancer and its treatment are stressful and reduce the quality of life in children. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of massage therapy on pain and anxiety arising from intrathecal therapy or bone marrow aspiration in children with cancer. We conducted a controlled pretest/posttest quasi‐experimental study at a paediatric oncology unit in Turkey. Twenty‐five children were enrolled in this study. Their pain and anxiety were determined using a visual analogue scale. When the pretest and posttest pain and anxiety levels of the groups were compared, no statistically significant difference was found (P > 0.05). It was determined that pain and anxiety levels in the experimental group decreased significantly. This study provides preliminary evidence for the effectiveness in children of massage in reducing pain and anxiety arising from intrathecal therapy or bone marrow aspiration.
Evaluation of the Effect of Onlay Mesenteric Flaps on End‐To‐End Jejunojejunostomy Healing in Horses
Authors: Aristizabal Fabio A. , Lopes Marco Aurélio , Silva Adriana , Avanza Marcel Ferreira , Nieto Jorge E.
Published: April 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effect of onlay mesenteric flaps (MFs) with end‐to‐end jejunojejunostomy on stomal diameter, length of jejunum with reduced stomal diameter, abdominal adhesion formation, and healing.

Study Design

Experimental study.

Animals

Healthy adult horses (n = 6).

Methods

Two hand sewn end‐to‐end jejunal anastomoses using a 1 layer simple continuous serosubmucosal suture pattern were performed in each horse ∼2 and 5 m oral to the ileocecal fold. Using a random design for selection anastomosis location (oral or aboral), 1 anastomosis was covered with 2 adjacent onlay MFs secured with interrupted sutures and cyanoacrylate glue. Two weeks later, adhesion formation, stomal diameter, length of reduced jejunal stomal diameter, and healing were evaluated.

Results

Use of onlay MFs decreased stomal diameter (P = .05), increased length of reduced peristomal jejunal diameter (P = .05), surgical time (P = .003), and serosal fibrosis (P = .05). No difference was evident for adhesion formation, and degree of inflammation between techniques.

Conclusion

End‐to‐end jejunojejunostomy covered with 2 onlay MFs is not recommended because this technique results in luminal reduction.
Ultrasound Assisted Arthroscopic Approach for Removal of Basilar Sesamoid Fragments of the Proximal Sesamoid Bones in Horses
Authors: Barrett Elizabeth J. , Rodgerson Dwayne H.
Published: April 2014

Objective

To describe an ultrasound assisted arthroscopic approach for removal of non‐articular basilar sesamoid fragments in Thoroughbred yearlings.

Animals

Thoroughbred yearlings (n = 7).

Methods

Basilar sesamoid fragments identified during pre‐sale radiographic examination were removed using a palmar/plantar arthroscopic approach to the fetlock joint and ultrasonographic guidance. Complete fragment removal was confirmed by ultrasonography and radiography.

Results

Basilar sesamoid fracture fragments were localized and removed successfully using rongeurs and a radiofrequency probe for soft tissue dissection of the fragment. Complete fragment removal was confirmed by ultrasonography and radiography. No intra‐ or postoperative complications occurred. At 6–8 months follow‐up, no fragments or bony proliferation at the base of the sesamoid was observed.

Conclusions

Ultrasonographic guidance can be used to facilitate localization, dissection, and confirmation of removal of basilar fragments of the proximal sesamoid bone.
Spermidine Enhances Waterlogging Tolerance via Regulation of Antioxidant Defence, Heat Shock Protein Expression and Plasma Membrane H+‐ATPase Activity in Zea mays
Authors: Liu M. Y. , Sun J. , Wang K. Y. , Liu D. , Li Z. Y. , Zhang J.
Published: April 2014

Polyamines (PAs) are ubiquitous biogenic amines that play important roles in the environmental stress tolerance of crops. However, the relationship between PAs and plant waterlogging (WL) tolerance has received little attention. In this study, the protective effects of spermidine (Spd) against WL stress were investigated by Zea mays. WL treatment inhibited root growth and caused a significant increase in lipid peroxidation, membrane permeability and DNA damage in maize roots. Pre‐soaking seeds with Spd markedly alleviated these effects caused by WL. Spd pre‐soaking also significantly increased the endogenous Spd content in both control and waterlogged maize roots. In addition, the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, CAT; glutathione reductase, GR; superoxide dismutase, SOD; peroxidase, POD) was enhanced in Spd‐pre‐soaked maize roots under WL stress. Thus, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide‐radical () accumulation were reduced. Spd treatment also enhances the expression and protein abundance of heat shock protein (HSP) 70 and 90 during the period of WL stress. Furthermore, Spd pre‐soaking reversed the inhibition effect of WL on H+ efflux and K+ influx in maize roots. The PM H+‐ATPase activity in Spd‐pre‐treated seedlings exhibited less inhibitory under WL conditions. In conclusion, this study suggests that WL stress could be alleviated by priming seeds with Spd in maize species. This alleviative effect was partially attributable to (i) up‐regulated activity of antioxidant enzymes; (ii) maintained PM H+‐ATPase activity; and (iii) increased Hsp70 and Hsp90 gene expression and protein abundance.
Effect of Lattice Distortion and Disordering on the Mechanical Properties of Titania‐Doped Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia
Authors: Zhao Meng , Ren Xiaorui , Pan Wei
Published: April 2014

TiO2‐doped Y2O3‐stabilized ZrO2 compounds with low thermal conductivity have been considered as a promising thermal barrier coating material. In the present research, a series of TiO2‐doped Y2O3‐stabilized ZrO2 compounds have been synthesized and investigated. Lattice distortion and disordering caused by TiO2 doping were observed and their effects on mechanical properties, such as fracture toughness, elastic modulus, and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), were also investigated. Lattice distortion enhanced the ferroelastic toughening and the fracture toughness, whereas the variation in elastic modulus and CTE is due to the lattice disordering. The combination of thermal and mechanical properties bodes well for the potential application as thermal barrier coating materials.
Temperature‐ and Atmosphere‐Dependent Defect Chemistry Model of SnO2 Nanocrystalline Film
Authors: Zhang Guozhu , Xie Changsheng , Zhang Shunping , Yang Li , Xiong Ya , Zeng Dawen
Published: April 2014

By combining the concept of defect chemistry and the small‐polaron hopping conduction model, the present work takes an intensively considering of the electron conduction mechanism in the nonstoichiometric SnO2 nanocrystalline film. The temperature‐dependent and atmosphere‐dependent relationship between the electrical conductivity and the defect reaction is outlined. To investigate the influence of temperature and atmosphere on the electrical properties of the SnO2 nanocrystalline film, a temperature‐programmed system integrated with the high‐throughput screening platform of gas‐sensing materials (HTSP‐GM) is developed as the test tool in this work. With this platform, the temperature‐dependent conductivity of SnO2 nanocrystalline film in different atmosphere (dry air, nitrogen, and formaldehyde) was conducted. A good fit between the theoretical deductions and experimental results is achieved.
3Y‐TZP In‐Depth Phase Transformation by Raman Spectroscopy: A Comparison of Three Methods
Authors: Wulfman Claudine , Djaker Nadia , Sadoun Michaël , Lamy de la Chapelle Marc
Published: April 2014

Zirconia phase transformation is usually studied on surface. For in‐depth study, three methods were proposed using Raman microspectroscopy quantitative evaluation: direct measurement on sample cross section, confocal Raman spectroscopy (CRS), and progressive pinhole aperture enlargement (PPAE). The aim of this study was to compare transformation profiles obtained with these three methods on the same sample. Three 3Y‐TZP samples were aged, respectively, for 25, 72, and 90 h in artificial saliva. Transformation profiles were determined with cross‐sectional measurement, CRS and PPAE. A transformation profile simulation model based on PPAE measurements is proposed, using the convolution of the excitation intensity profile and the Beer–Lambert law (optical properties of zirconia). The simulation model was validated with the determination of 3Y‐TZP transformation factor, T = 1.15 μm−1, identical for the three aging durations. Both cross section and PPAE measured similar in‐depth transformation decrease, but with a 10 μm‐shift: transformed zirconia layer is more important in cross‐sectional protocol (36 μm with PPAE and 46 μm with cross‐sectional after 90 h aging). Complementary measurements on a 10 h aged sample, where transformation is initiated by Low‐Temperature Degradation, showed that sample preparation and polishing, necessary in the cross‐sectional method, were responsible for the higher transformation. PPAE method enables noninvasive in‐depth measurements with limited optical and mechanical biases.
Thermal Expansion, Heat Capacity, and Thermal Conductivity of Nickel Ferrite (NiFe2O4)
Authors: Nelson Andrew T. , White Joshua T. , Andersson David A. , Aguiar Jeffery A. , McClellan Kenneth J. , Byler Darrin D. , Short Michael P. , Stanek Christopher R.
Published: April 2014

Nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) is a major constituent of the corrosion deposits formed on the exterior of nuclear fuel cladding tubes during operation. NiFe2O4 has attracted much recent interest, mainly due to the impact of these deposits, known as CRUD, on the operation of commercial nuclear reactors. Although advances have been made in modeling CRUD nucleation and growth under a wide range of conditions, the thermophysical properties of NiFe2O4 at high temperatures have only been approximated, thereby limiting the accuracy of such models. In this study, samples of NiFe2O4 were synthesized to provide the thermal diffusivity, specific heat capacity, and thermal expansion data from room temperature to 1300 K. These results were then used to determine thermal conductivity. Numerical fits are provided to facilitate ongoing modeling efforts. The Curie temperature determined through these measurements was in slight disagreement with literature values. Transmission electron microscopy investigation of multiple NiFe2O4 samples revealed that minor nonstoichiometry was likely responsible for variations in the Curie temperature. However, these small changes in composition did not impact the thermal conductivity of NiFe2O4, and thus are not expected to play a large role in governing reactor performance.
Temperature and Frequency Dependence of Electric Field‐Induced Phase Transitions in PMN–0.32PT
Authors: Wooldridge Jenny , Stewart Mark , Vecchini Carlo , Cain Markys G. , Gutmann Matthias , Reece Mike
Published: April 2014

Single crystal (1 − x)Pb(Mg1/3 Nb2/3)O3–xPbTiO3 [PMN–xPT] (x = 0.32) is a relaxor‐ferroelectric material known to exhibit ‘giant’ piezoelectric behavior, with achievable strains in excess of 1% for samples of certain particular crystallographic orientations and chemical compositions close to the morphotropic phase boundary. In this study, we investigate the electric field‐induced structural phase transitions in single crystal PMN–0.32PT with time‐of‐flight neutron diffraction and macroscopic electrical polarization measurements, and show that both the frequency of the applied ac field and the temperature of the sample are critical factors in determining these phase transition fields.
Structural Evolution of B–C Thin Films Deposited from SPSed‐Target and Dual‐Target
Authors: Li Qizhong , Zhang Song , Wang Chuanbin , Shen Qiang , Lu Wenzhong , Zhang Lianmeng
Published: April 2014

Boron carbide thin films have been synthesized via pulsed laser deposition process using Spark Plasma Sintered (SPSed) and dual‐targets, respectively. Two kinds of structural evolutions have been found by investigation of bonding environments in as‐deposited thin films via X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy study. With decreasing of B/C ratio, films deposited from SPSed‐target show the transformation of B11C‐CBB → B11C‐CBC. In contrast, the films deposited from dual‐target present the B11C‐CBB → B10C2‐CBB structural change.
Computational Modeling of Die Swell of Extruded Glass Preforms at High Viscosity
Authors: Trabelssi Mohamed , Ebendorff‐Heidepriem Heike , Richardson Kathleen C. , Monro Tanya M. , Joseph Paul F.
Published: April 2014

Computational simulations of glass extrusion are performed to quantify the effects of material behavior and slip at the die/glass interface on the die swell. Experimental data for three glass types are used to guide the computational study, which considers glass material to be viscous with and without shear thinning and viscoelastic using the Maxwell upper‐convected model. The study starts with assuming no‐slip at the glass/die interface to see if material behavior alone can explain the die swell results, and then considers slip using the Navier model where interface shear is directly proportional to the relative slip speed at the interface. Consistent with the possibility of slip and intended high viscosity applications, viscosity ranging from 107.4–108.8 Pa·s was used. Based on optimization of the various input parameters required to achieve the measured die swell and ram force values, the study concludes that interface slip occurred as only extreme values of the shear thinning parameters provided an alternative.
Novel Broadband Excited and Linear Red‐Emitting Ba2Y(BO3)2Cl:Ce3+, Tb3+, Eu3+ Phosphor: Luminescence and Energy Transfer
Authors: Zhang Xinguo , Zhou Liya , Pang Qi , Gong Menglian
Published: April 2014

A series of Ce3+, Tb3+, Eu3+ tri‐doped Ba2Y(BO3)2Cl red‐emitting phosphor have been synthesized by solid‐state method. The Ce3+→Tb3+→Eu3+ energy‐transfer scheme has been proposed to realize the sensitization of Eu3+ ion emission by Ce3+ ions. Following this energy‐transfer model, near‐UV convertible Eu3+‐activated red phosphors have been obtained in Ba2Y(BO3)2Cl: Ce3+, Tb3+, Eu3+ phosphors. Energy transfers from Ce3+ to Tb3+, and Tb3+ to Eu3+, as well as corresponding energy‐transfer efficiencies are investigated. The combination of narrow‐line red emission and near‐UV broadband excitation makes Ba2Y(BO3)2Cl: Ce3+, Tb3+, Eu3+ as a novel and efficient red phosphor for NUV LED applications.
Preparation of a Novel Cementitious Material from Hydrothermally Synthesized C–S–H Phases
Authors: Garbev Krassimir , Beuchle Günter , Schweike Uwe , Merz Daniela , Dregert Olga , Stemmermann Peter
Published: April 2014

New cementitious materials based on calcium hydrosilicate hydrates were recently developed as potential substitutes for ordinary portland cement, but with a reduced CO2 footprint. The materials are produced by hydrothermal processing of SiO2 and Ca(OH)2, giving rise to calcium silicate hydrates, followed by mechanical activation of the latter via cogrinding with various siliceous materials. Thus, the chemical composition in terms of C/S ratio could be adjusted over a broad range (1–3). In this study the synthesis of a previously unknown cementitious material produced via the combination of mechanical activation in a laboratory mill and thermal treatment of a mixture of quartz and hydrothermally synthesized calcium silicate hydrates: α‐Ca2[HSiO4](OH) (α‐C2SH) and Ca6[Si2O7](OH)6 (jaffeite) are reported. It forms independently of the type of mill used (eccentric vibrating mill, vibration grinding mill) after thermal treatment of the ground materials at 360°C–420°C. The new material is X‐ray amorphous and possesses a CaO/SiO2 ratio of 2. A characteristic feature in regards to the silicate anionic structure is the increased silicate polymerization (up to 27% Si2O7 dimers) as revealed by the trimethylsilylation method. Infrared (IR) spectra show a very broad absorption band centered at about 935 cm−1. Another characteristic feature is the presence of ~2.5 wt% H2O as shown by thermogravimetry (TG) coupled with IR spectroscopy. As this water is bound mostly as hydroxyl to Ca, we refer to this new cementitious material as calcium‐oxide–hydroxide–silicate (C–CH–S). Calorimetric measurements point to a very high hydraulic reactivity which is beyond that for typical C2S materials. The influence of the type of grinding on the thermal behavior of α‐C2SH upon its transformation into water‐free Ca2SiO4 modifications is discussed.
Control of Oxygen Permeability in Alumina under Oxygen Potential Gradients at High Temperature by Dopant Configurations
Authors: Kitaoka Satoshi , Matsudaira Tsuneaki , Wada Masashi , Saito Tomohiro , Tanaka Makoto , Kagawa Yutaka
Published: April 2014

The oxygen permeability of polycrystalline α‐alumina wafers, which served as models for alumina scales on alumina‐forming alloys, under steep oxygen potential gradients () was evaluated at 1873 K. Oxygen permeation occurred by the grain‐boundary (GB) diffusion of oxygen from the higher‐oxygen‐partial‐pressure () surface to the lower‐ surface, along with the simultaneous GB diffusion of aluminum in the opposite direction. The fluxes of oxygen and aluminum at the outflow side of the wafer were significantly larger than at the inflow side. Furthermore, Lu and Hf segregation at the GBs selectively reduced the mobility of oxygen and aluminum, respectively. A wafer with a bilayer structure, in which a Lu‐doped layer was exposed to a lower and an Hf‐doped layer was exposed to a higher , decreased the oxygen permeability. When the sign of was reversed, however, the oxygen permeability of the wafer was comparable to that of a nondoped wafer. Co‐doping with both Lu and Hf markedly increased the oxygen permeation, presumably because the Lu‐stabilized HfO2 particles that were segregated at the GBs acted as extremely fast diffusion paths for oxygen through the large number of oxygen vacancies introduced by the solid solution of Lu in the particles.
Maintaining Unity – relatives in older patients' fast‐track treatment programmes. A grounded theory study
Authors: Berthelsen Connie Bøttcher , Lindhardt Tove , Frederiksen Kirsten
Published: April 2014

Aim

To generate a substantive grounded theory of relatives' pattern of behaviour in older patients' fast‐track treatment programmes during total hip or knee replacement.

Background

Fast‐track treatment programmes are designed to make total hip and knee replacements more efficient through recovery improvements. The support of relatives during older patients' trajectory is important. However, knowledge is needed on the relatives' pattern of behaviour to strengthen their involvement in fast‐track treatment programmes.

Design

We used a Glaserian grounded theory approach based on a systematic generation of theory from data to explain the latent pattern of behaviour of relatives.

Methods

Data were collected from 2010–2011 in orthopaedic wards at two Danish university hospitals and consisted of 14 non‐participant observations, 14 postobservational interviews and five interviews. Seven relatives of patients over 70 years of age participated. The constant comparative method was the guiding principle for simultaneous data collection, data analysis and coding, while theoretically sampling and writing memos.

Findings

Maintaining Unity emerged as the relatives' pattern of behaviour through which they resolved their main concern: preventing the patients from feeling alone. The relatives resolved their main concern through three interchangeable behavioural modes: Protecting Mode, by providing loving and respectful support; Substituting Mode, with practical and cognitive support; and an Adapting Mode, by trying to fit in with the patients' and health professionals' requirements.

Conclusion

The substantive theory of Maintaining Unity offers knowledge of relatives' strong desire to provide compassionate and loving support for the older patients during fast‐track treatment programmes.
Assessing model sensitivity in ancestral area reconstruction using Lagrange: a case study using the Colchicaceae family
Authors: Chacón Juliana , Renner Susanne S.
Published: April 2014

Aim

Likelihood analyses of ancestral ranges require a parameterized model that consists of a time‐calibrated phylogeny, an ‘adjacency matrix’ of allowed or forbidden area connections, and an ‘area–dispersal’ matrix with probabilities for discrete periods of time. The approach is implemented in the software Lagrange. Because it can incorporate information about past continental positions, the approach has been used in historical biogeographical studies of relatively old clades. Surprisingly, no study has evaluated the interactions among these input matrices. Here we use the lily family Colchicaceae and artificial data to study the relative effect of the input matrices on final estimates.

Location

Africa, Australia, Eurasia, North America and South America.

Methods

Using eight plastid, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA regions from 85 of the c. 280 species of Colchicaceae (representing all genera and the entire geographical range) and relevant outgroups, we obtained a well‐resolved phylogeny dated with a molecular clock. We then assigned species to six geographical distributions and carried out 22 Lagrange runs in which we modified the adjacency and dispersal matrices, the latter with zero, two or four time periods and one, three or five dispersal probabilities. For a second data set, the areas at deep nodes in the empirical tree were modified by shuffling species distributions. Models were compared based on global log‐likelihoods.

Results

The adjacency matrix strongly determined the outcome, while time slices and dispersal probability categories had minor effects. Ancestral areas reconstructed at most nodes were unaffected by the different input matrices. Colchicaceae are likely to have originated in Cretaceous East Gondwana, initially diversified in Australia (c. 67 Ma), reached southern Africa during the Palaeocene–Eocene, and from there extended their range to Southeast Asia (probably through Arabia) and then North America (through Beringia).

Main conclusions

At least in small data sets, Lagrange models should be tested with sensitivity analyses as carried out here, concentrating on constrained versus unconstrained adjacency matrices, and it should be good practice to report the set‐up of both input matrices, not just the dispersal matrix, which is the less decisive of the two.