bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety of therapeutic hypothermia in children on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery
Authors: Lou Song , MacLaren Graeme , Paul Eldho , Best Derek , Delzoppo Carmel , d’Udekem Yves , Butt Warwick
Published: February 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of therapeutic hypothermia in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after paediatric cardiac surgery is associated with increased complication rates.

Methods

We undertook a retrospective study to compare the complication rates and clinical course of children after cardiac surgery in two groups – extracorporeal membrane oxygenation without therapeutic hypothermia (group 1) and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with therapeutic hypothermia (group 2). Therapeutic hypothermia was performed via the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit heater–cooler device.

Results

A total of 96 patients were included in this study (59 in group 1 and 37 in group 2). Complications were comparable between group 1 and group 2, except that more patients with therapeutic hypothermia had hypertension while on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Therapeutic hypothermia was not independently associated with in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio 1.16, 95% CI: 0.33–4.03; p=0.82).

Conclusion

Therapeutic hypothermia can be safely provided to children on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after cardiac surgery without an increase in complication rates.
Prehospital Emergency Care Training Practices Regarding Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Patients in Maryland (USA)
Authors: Jalali Sara , Levy Matthew J. , Tang Nelson
Published: February 2015

Introduction

Prehospital Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers are expected to treat all patients the same, regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion. Some EMS personnel who are poorly trained in working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients are at risk for managing such patients incompletely and possibly incorrectly. During emergency situations, such mistreatment has meant the difference between life and death.

Methods

An anonymous survey was electronically distributed to EMS educational program directors in Maryland (USA). The survey asked participants if their program included training cultural sensitivity, and if so, by what modalities. Specific questions then focused on information about LGBT education, as well as related topics, that they, as program directors, would want included in an online training module.

Results

A total of 20 programs met inclusion criteria for the study, and 16 (80%) of these programs completed the survey. All but one program (15, 94%) included cultural sensitivity training. One-third (6, 38%) of the programs reported already teaching LGBT-related issues specifically. Three-quarters of the programs that responded (12, 75%) were willing to include LGBT-related material into their curriculum. All programs (16, 100%) identified specific aspects of LGBT-related emergency health issues they would be interested in having included in an educational module.

Conclusion

Most EMS educational program directors in Maryland are receptive to including LGBT-specific education into their curricula. The information gathered in this survey may help guide the development of a short, self-contained, open-access module for EMS educational programs. Further research, on a broader scale and with greater geographic sampling, is needed to assess the practices of EMS educators on a national level.

JalaliS, LevyMJ, TangN. Prehospital emergency care training practices regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender patients in Maryland (USA). Prehosp Disaster Med. 2015;30(2):1-4.
Health Impact Assessment of Cyclone Bejisa in Reunion Island (France) Using Syndromic Surveillance
Authors: Vilain Pascal , Pagès Frédéric , Combes Xavier , Marianne Dit Cassou Pierre-Jean , Mougin-Damour Katia , Jacques-Antoine Yves , Filleul Laurent
Published: February 2015

Introduction

On January 2, 2014, Cyclone Bejisa struck Reunion Island (France). This storm led to major material damages, such as power outages, disturbance of drinking water systems, road closures, and the evacuation of residents. In this context, the Regional Office of French Institute for Public Health Surveillance in Indian Ocean (Cire OI) set up an epidemiological surveillance in order to describe short-term health effects of the cyclone.

Methods

The assessment of the health impact was based mainly on a syndromic surveillance system, including the activity of all emergency departments (EDs) and the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) of the island. From these data, several health indicators were collected and analyzed daily and weekly. To complete this assessment, all medical charts recorded in the EDs of Reunion Island from January 2, 2014 through January 5, 2014 were reviewed in order to identify visits directly and indirectly related to the cyclone, and to determine mechanisms of injuries.

Results

The number of calls to the EMS peaked the day of the cyclone, and the number of ED visits increased markedly over the next two days. At the same time, a significant increase in visits for trauma, burns, and carbon monoxide poisoning was detected in all EDs. Among 1,748 medical records reviewed, eight visits were directly related to the cyclone and 208 were indirectly related. For trauma, the main mechanisms of injury were falls and injuries by machinery or tools during the clean-up and repair works. Due to prolonged power outages, several patients were hospitalized: some to assure continuity of care, others to take care of an exacerbation of a chronic disease. An increase in leptospirosis cases linked to post-cyclone clean-up was observed two weeks after the cyclone.

Conclusion

Information based on the syndromic surveillance system allowed the authors to assess rapidly the health impact of Cyclone Bejisa in Reunion Island; however, an underestimation of this impact was still possible. In the near future, several lines of work will be planned by the authors in order to improve the assessment.

VilainP,PagèsF,CombesX,Marianne Dit CassouPJ,Mougin-DamourK,Jacques-AntoineY,FilleulL.Health impact assessment of Cyclone Bejisa in Reunion Island (France) using syndromic surveillance.Prehosp Disaster Med.2015;30(2):1-8
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Initial Oral Contraceptives for the Treatment of PMDD: Effective But Not Enough
Authors: Halbreich Uriel
Published: February 2015

Background:

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are almost unanimously considered to be very efficacious and the first line of pharmacologic treatment for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). There is a need to examine if this is actually the case. More recently, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) have been pursued due to their ovulation suppression effects. Their effects on PMS/PMDD should be further examined as well.

Methods:

For this review of the literature from 1990 to the present, MEDLINE, PsychLit, and Cochrane controlled trials register were searched. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of SSRIs and COCs (N>20) that report the rate of responders and not just percent improvement in severity of symptoms were selected for study. The data extraction were the percentage or number of responders as reported by the original authors.

Results:

In many studies, only mean improvement in severity was reported. In all studies, the main inclusion criterion was meeting criteria for PMDD; this has not, however, been an outcome measure. However, only 16 reports that provided actual rate of responders could be included. The percentage of non-responders (100% minus active medication) to SSRIs and COCs was found to be higher than the reported percentage of women who responded to active medication (response rate to an SSRI or COC minus the response rate to placebo).

Conclusion:

In the majority of larger-scale studies, once the placebo effect is accounted for, the percentage of women who respond to SSRIs or COCs is actually less than the percentage of women who do not respond at all. SSRIs provide an important step forward in the treatment of PMDD and PMS. COCs provide a different option, still, ~40% of women with PMDD do not respond to SSRIs. Treatment with a currently approved COC does not substantially improve the percentage of responders. Therefore, additional alternative targeted treatment modalities need to be developed.
Diabetische Nephropathie und Anpassung der antidiabetischen Therapie bei Niereninsuffizienz
Authors: Winzeler Bettina , Dickenmann Michael , Jehle Andreas Werner
Published: February 2015

Die diabetische Nephropathie ist bei uns die häufigste Ursache eines terminalen Nierenversagens und ist mit einer hohen Morbidität und Mortalität verbunden. Der frühzeitigen Diagnose kommt ein hoher Stellenwert zu, da durch eine konsequente Therapie der Albuminurie und der häufig vorliegenden arteriellen Hypertonie die renale Prognose verbessert werden kann. Ebenso ist eine gute Kontrolle des Blutzuckers für die Nieren entscheidend, wobei das HbA1c-Ziel für jeden Patienten unter Berücksichtigung seiner Komorbiditäten und Bedürfnissen individuell festgelegt werden muss. Bei der antidiabetischen Therapie ist zu beachten, dass bereits bei einer geschätzten GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 die Dosierung vieler Medikamenten angepasst werden sollte. Das Hypoglykämierisiko ist insbesondere bei den Sulfonylharnstoffen Glibenclamid und Glimepirid stark erhöht und diese Medikamente sind bereits bei leichter Niereninsuffizienz kontraindiziert. Bei Metformin ist wegen des erhöhten Risikos einer Laktatazidose bereits bei einer GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 eine Dosisanpassung notwendig und es sollte bei einer GFR < 45 ml/min/1.73 m2 nicht mehr verwendet werden. Zudem muss Metformin bei jeder Gefahr einer akuten Niereninsuffizienz pausiert werden. Die neueren DPP-4 Inhibitoren können auch bei eingeschränkter Nierenfunktion eingesetzt werden, wobei bei den meisten Präparaten einen Dosisanpassung notwendig ist. Die Verwendung von GLP-1 Rezeptor Agonisten ist bei moderater Niereninsuffizienz mit Vorsicht möglich, bei schwerer Niereninsuffizienz sollten sie jedoch nicht verwendet werden. Von den neuen SGLT2 Hemmern kann Canagliflozin und Empagliflozin bis zu einer GFR von 45 ml/min/1.73 m2 eingesetzt werden. Dapagliflozin ist nur bis zu einer GFR von 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 zugelassen.
Broadband tunable liquid crystal terahertz waveplates driven with porous graphene electrodes
Authors: Wang Lei , Lin Xiao-Wen , Hu Wei , Shao Guang-Hao , Chen Peng , Liang Lan-Ju , Jin Biao-Bing , Wu Pei-Heng , Qian Hao , Lu Yi-Nong , Liang Xiao , Zheng Zhi-Gang , Lu Yan-Qing
Published: February 2015

Versatile devices, especially tunable ones, for terahertz imaging, sensing and high-speed communication, are in high demand. Liquid crystal based components are perfect candidates in the optical range; however, they encounter significant challenges in the terahertz band, particularly the lack of highly transparent electrodes and the drawbacks induced by a thick cell. Here, a strategy to overcome all these challenges is proposed: Few-layer porous graphene is employed as an electrode with a transmittance of more than 98%. A subwavelength metal wire grid is utilized as an integrated high-efficiency electrode and polarizer. The homogeneous alignment of a high-birefringence liquid crystal is implemented on both frail electrodes via a non-contact photo-alignment technique. A tunable terahertz waveplate is thus obtained. Its polarization evolution is directly demonstrated. Furthermore, quarter-wave plates that are electrically controllable over the entire testing range are achieved by stacking two cells. The proposed solution may pave a simple and bright road toward the development of various liquid crystal terahertz apparatuses.
Interleukin-23 promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of oesophageal carcinoma cells via the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Chen Deyu , Li Wei , Liu Shenzha , Su Yuting , Han Guohu , Xu Chenchen , Liu Hongli , Zheng Tingting , Zhou Yuepeng , Mao Chaoming
Published: February 2015

As the eighth most common malignant tumour worldwide, oesophageal cancer (OC) is often diagnosed during the metastasis of its advanced stage. Interleukin (IL)-23 is an immunomodulatory cytokine that has recently been identified as a cancer-associated factor. However, the role of IL-23 in the evolution of OC remains unclear. In the present study, we found that IL-23 was significantly expressed in the tumours of OC patients suffering metastasis and demonstrated that IL-23 contributed to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, promoting the migration and invasion of OC cells. In conclusion, IL-23 plays a pivotal role in the development of OC via EMT.
All-in-one assembly based on 3D-intertangled and cross-jointed architectures of Si/Cu 1D-nanowires for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Hwang Chihyun , Kim Tae-Hee , Cho Yoon-Gyo , Kim Jieun , Song Hyun-Kon
Published: February 2015

All-in-one assemblies of separator, electrode and current collector (SECA) for lithium ion batteries are presented by using 1D nanowires of Si and Cu (nwSi and nwCu). Even without binders, integrity of SECA is secured via structural joints based on ductility of Cu as well as entanglement of nwSi and nwCu. By controlling the ratio of the nanowires, the number of contact points and voids accommodating volume expansion of Si active material are tunable. Zero volume expansion and high energy density are simultaneously achievable by the architecture.
The multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor vandetanib plays a bifunctional role in non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Zhou Yan , Zhang Yuanliang , Zou Hanbing , Cai Ning , Chen Xiaojing , Xu Longmei , Kong Xianming , Liu Peifeng
Published: February 2015

Vandetanib, a multikinase inhibitor, is a target of drug treatments for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, phase II and III clinical trials have not conclusively demonstrated the curative effects of vandetanib for NSCLC and the reasons for this are unknown. In the present study, we use the NSCLC cell line Calu-6 as a model to determine the cellular and biological effects of vandetanib. Our results demonstrate that vandetanib impairs Calu-6 cell migration and invasion. We find that vandetanib can directly inhibit RET activity, which influences the Rho-JNK pathway. Overexpression of a constitutively active Rho GTPase antagonizes the inhibitory effects of vandetanib on Calu-6 cells invasion and JNK pathway activation. In addition, vandetanib induces autophagy by increasing the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Calu-6 cells and blockade of autophagy or ROS effectively enhances the cell death effect of vandetanib. In this study, we find vandetanib is of a double effect in some NSCLC cells, presenting new possibilities for the pharmacological treatment of NSCLC and introducing a novel role for vandetanib in treatment options.
In North America, Some Ovarian Cancers Express the Oncogenes of Preventable Human Papillomavirus HPV-18
Authors: Roos Patrick , Orlando Paul A. , Fagerstrom Richard M. , Pepper John W.
Published: February 2015

Some researchers in other regions have recommended human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination to reduce risk of ovarian cancer, but not in North America, where evidence has previously suggested no role for HPV in ovarian cancer. Here we use a large sample of ovarian cancer transcriptomes (RNA-Seq) from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database to address whether HPV is involved with ovarian cancer in North America. We estimate that a known high-risk type of HPV (type 18) is present and active in 1.5% of cases of ovarian epithelial cancers in the US and Canada. Our detection methods were verified by negative and positive controls and our sequence matches indicated high validity, leading to strong confidence in our conclusions. Our results indicate that previous reports of zero prevalence of HPV in North American cases of ovarian cancer should not be considered conclusive. This is important because currently used vaccines protect against the HPV-18 that is active in ovarian tumors and, therefore, may reduce risk in North America of cancers of the ovaries as well as of the cervix and several other organ sites.
A versatile strategy to construct multifunctional metal oxide@cyanometallate-based coordination polymer heterostructures
Authors: Bu Fan-Xing , Xu Li , Zhang Wei , Jin Chuan-Yin , Qi Rui-Juan , Huang Rong , Jiang Ji-Sen
Published: February 2015

We have developed a novel and versatile spatially confined self-assembly strategy to integrate cyanometallate-based coordination polymers with functional metal oxides into well-defined core@shell heterostructures with various structures, compositions, sizes and morphologies.
Complex reaction networks in high temperature hydrocarbon chemistry
Authors: Mutlay İbrahim , Restrepo Albeiro
Published: February 2015

Complex network theory reveals novel insights into the chemical kinetics of high temperature hydrocarbon decomposition.
Efficient screening of 2D molecular polymorphs at the solution–solid interface
Authors: Lee Shern-Long , Adisoejoso Jinne , Fang Yuan , Tahara Kazukuni , Tobe Yoshito , Mali Kunal S. , De Feyter Steven
Published: February 2015

We describe a low-tech yet efficient method for rapid screening of 2D polymorphs formed at the liquid-solid interface.
A real-time colorimetric and ratiometric fluorescent probe for rapid detection of SO2 derivatives in living cells based on a near-infrared benzopyrylium dye
Authors: Chen Wenqiang , Liu Xingjiang , Chen Song , Song Xiangzhi , Kang Jian
Published: February 2015

Near-infrared benzopyrylium dye was employed as a fast-responding ratiometric fluorescent probe for sensitive and selective detection of SO2 derivatives in 100% aqueous solution as well as in living cells.
Role of pretreatment with acid and base on the distribution of the products obtained via lignocellulosic biomass pyrolysis
Authors: Wang Xinde , Leng Shuai , Bai Jiaqi , Zhou Hu , Zhong Xing , Zhuang Guilin , Wang Jianguo
Published: February 2015

Analysis of chemicals distribution in pyrolysis liquid following different content of acid and base in pretreatment.
Fabrication and characterization of all-polystyrene microfluidic devices with integrated electrodes and tubing
Authors: Pentecost Amber M. , Martin R. Scott
Published: February 2015

A new method of fabricating all-polystyrene devices with integrated electrodes and fluidic tubing is described.
Separation of polar compounds using a flexible metal–organic framework
Authors: Motkuri Radha Kishan , Thallapally Praveen K. , Annapureddy Harsha V. R. , Dang Liem X. , Krishna Rajamani , Nune Satish K. , Fernandez Carlos A. , Liu Jian , McGrail B. Peter
Published: February 2015

A flexible metal–organic framework, TetZB, shows remarkable affinity and separation capability of polar compounds (propanol isomers).
Nanoalloy electrocatalysis: simulating cyclic voltammetry from configurational thermodynamics with adsorbates
Authors: Wang Lin-Lin , Tan Teck L. , Johnson Duane D.
Published: February 2015

Simulated 2-dimensional cyclic voltammetry for nanoalloys with a hybrid ensemble scheme in Monte Carlo simulation based on the cluster expansion method.
Formic acid: a future bridge between the power and chemical industries
Authors: Supronowicz W. , Ignatyev I. A. , Lolli G. , Wolf A. , Zhao L. , Mleczko L.
Published: February 2015

Formic acid could bridge the power and chemical industries by sustainably integrating into the existing chemical value chain.
Diaryliodonium salts as efficient Lewis acid catalysts for direct three component Mannich reactions
Authors: Zhang Yanxia , Han Jianwei , Liu Zhen-Jiang
Published: February 2015

Diaryliodonium(iii) salts, as highly active and versatile Lewis acid catalysts for the direct three component Mannich reaction under solvent free conditions, have been investigated.
Pd–imidate complexes as recyclable catalysts for the synthesis of C5-alkenylated pyrimidine nucleosides via Heck cross-coupling reaction
Authors: Ardhapure Ajaykumar V. , Sanghvi Yogesh S. , Kapdi Anant R. , García Joaquín , Sanchez Gregorio , Lozano Pedro , Serrano J. Luis
Published: February 2015

Pd–imidate complexes as recyclable catalysts for Heck alkenylation of pyrimidine nucleosides. Pd–imidate complexes have been employed as efficient catalysts for the Heck alkenylation of unprotected 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine in acetonitrile.
Silver nanoparticles: facile synthesis and their catalytic application for the degradation of dyes
Authors: Sharma Kamaldeep , Singh Gurpreet , Singh Gurpreet , Kumar Manoj , Bhalla Vandana
Published: February 2015

The aggregates of pentacenequinone, HPB and PDI derivatives 3, 5 and 7 having aldehyde groups bind strongly with Ag+ and serve as reactors and stabilizers for the preparation of AgNPs at room temperature. In situ generated AgNPs show high catalytic efficiency for industrially important organic dye degradation.
Enantioselective synthesis of d-α-amino amides from aliphatic aldehydes
Authors: Schwieter Kenneth E. , Johnston Jeffrey N.
Published: February 2015

Bromonitromethane is used in a phase transfer-catalysed enantioselective aza-Henry reaction, leading to d-amino amide bearing an alkyl chain.
Distinct lipid effects on tBid and Bim activation of membrane permeabilization by pro-apoptotic Bax
Authors: Shamas-Din Aisha , Bindner Scott , Chi Xiaoke , Leber Brian , Andrews David W. , Fradin Cécile
Published: February 2015

tBid (truncated Bid/p15) and Bim activate Bax to permeabilize mitochondria and induce apoptosis. Binding of tBid and Bim to membranes is facilitated by electrostatic interactions. Additionally, cardiolipin (CL), like Mtch2, promotes the activating conformational change of tBid.
Characteristic research of electromagnetic force for mixing suspension electromagnet used in low‐speed maglev train
Authors: Liu Shao‐Ke , An Bang , Liu Si‐kai , Guo Zhong‐Jun
Published: February 2015

Suspension electromagnets are an essential component of the low‐speed maglev train. Their performance has a direct bearing on the technical and economical performance, as well as the safety, of the entire train. This report describes a new form of electromagnet, whose structure combines permanent magnets and electromagnetic coils. This report then uses a two‐dimensional (2D)/3D finite element approach in order to analyse the electromagnetic characteristics of this new form of hybrid electromagnet. A simulation was conducted according to four typical operating conditions: a full load with a fixed suspension gap of 8 mm; a full load with an initial suspension gap of 18 mm; a full load with a suspension gap of 10 mm; and an empty load with a 3 mm gap as well as a guard that prevented the magnet from getting caught on the tracks. The report equally discusses the extent to which the suspension gap and the current of the electromagnetic coil affect the electromagnet's force. The calculations and experiments reveal that this new, hybrid form of electromagnet is feasible and significantly contributes to saving energy.
Professional development programmes at world-class universities
Authors: James Jacob W , Xiong Weiyan , Ye Huiyuan
Published: February 2015

Higher education professional development trends increasingly focus on areas of quality improvement, quality assurance and optimal technology delivery models to achieve academic excellence. World-class universities rely on their faculty professional development centres for an array of professional development programmes to support teaching, research and student learning. This article examines faculty development centres at eight world-class universities in Australia, China, the United Kingdom and the United States: Australian National University, London School of Economics and Political Science, Carnegie Mellon University, University of Hong Kong, University of Melbourne, University of Oxford, University of Pennsylvania and University of Pittsburgh. Findings from this study include the structural characteristics of each centre as well as a summary of best practices in terms of programme development and resource management. We provide suggestions and recommendations to assist higher education administrators interested in establishing or strengthening professional development programmes at their own institutions.
Performance analysis of a plasmonic sensor based on gold nanoparticle film in infrared light using the admittance loci method
Authors: Brahmachari Kaushik , Ray Mina
Published: February 2015

A theoretical design of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure operating in attenuated total reflection (ATR) mode and comprising of silicon or chalcogenide (2S2G) prism material coated with gold film having different nanoparticle sizes has been reported along with some interesting performance related simulation results at the operating wavelength of 1200 nm in infrared. The admittance loci based technique has been employed for the appropriate choice of the metal layer thickness. The sensitivity and other performance parameters of the structure based on the choice of the high index prism material and correct gold nanoparticle size have also been presented. In comparison to other conventional prism based plasmonic structures, the proposed model provides the extra degree of freedom, i.e., variations of nanoparticle size in addition to the variation in layer thickness and the use of different high index prism materials like silicon, 2S2G materials, etc. Moreover, the width of the SPR curve can be controlled by using different high index prism materials as well as by changing gold nanoparticle size. Higher sensitivity can be achieved with 2S2G while higher detection accuracy is provided by silicon as prism material.
Modifying exchange-spring behavior of CoPt/NiFe bilayer by inserting a Pt or Ru spacer
Authors: Hsu Jen-Hwa , Tsai C. L. , Lee C.-M. , Saravanan P.
Published: February 2015

We herein explore the possibility of obtaining tunable tilted magnetic anisotropy in ordered-CoPt (5 nm)/NiFe(tNiFe) bilayers through modifying their exchange spring behavior by inserting Pt and Ru-spacers. The tuning process of tilt angle magnetization of NiFe-layer was systematically investigated by varying the Pt or Ru thickness (tPt or tRu) from 0 to 8 nm at different thicknesses of NiFe (tNiFe = 1.5, 4.0, and 6.0 nm). Polar magneto-optic Kerr effect (p-MOKE) studies reveal that the bilayers grown in absence of spacers exhibit almost a rectangular hysteresis loop. With the insertion of Pt-spacer, the loop becomes more and more tilted as tPt increases; whereas, in the case of Ru-spacer, the nature of the loops is not simply changing in one direction. The estimated SQR⊥ (= θr/θs) values from the p-MOKE loops are found to monotonically decrease with increasing tPt when tPt ≦ 4 nm. In contrast, in the case of Ru-spacer, an oscillatory behavior for the SQR⊥ values is apparent when tRu ≦ 4 nm. As a result, an oscillatory tilted angle of NiFe spin configuration was obtained in the case of Ru-spacer; while a decoupling effect was prominent for the Pt-spacer. The results of present study reveal that the insertion of Pt and Ru-spacers as an appropriate means for realizing tunable tilted magnetic anisotropy in the CoPt/NiFe exchange springs.
Manipulating acoustic flow by using inhomogeneous anisotropic density-near-zero metamaterials
Authors: Liu Cong , Xu Xiaodong , Liu Xiaojun
Published: February 2015

Anisotropic density-near-zero (ADNZ) metamaterials, with only one component of the mass density tensor near zero, have been proposed and used to manipulate the flow of the acoustic energy in designed paths. In the inhomogeneous ADNZ metamaterials, a strong averaging effect on the non-zero component of the mass density tensor is theoretically and numerically demonstrated. Based on this effect, the acoustic intensity vector, which represents the average direction and magnitude of the acoustic energy flow, can be manipulated by simply designing the spatial profile of the non-zero mass density component. This method provides more possibilities in controlling the acoustic intensity in almost an arbitrary way.
Effects of long-term dietary supplementation with conjugated linoleic acid on bovine oocyte lipid profile
Authors: González-Serrano Andrés F. , Ferreira Christina R. , Pirro Valentina , Lucas-Hahn Andrea , Heinzmann Julia , Hadeler Klaus-Gerd , Baulain Ulrich , Aldag Patrick , Meyer Ulrich , Piechotta Marion , Jahreis Gerhard , Dänicke Sven , Cooks R. Graham , Niemann Heiner
Published: February 2015

Nutritional and environmental conditions around conception and during early embryonic development may have significant effects on health and well-being in adult life. Here, a bovine heifer model was used to investigate the effects of rumen-protected fat supplementation on oocyte quality and embryo development. Holstein–Friesian heifers (n = 84) received a dietary supplement consisting of rumen-protected conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) or stearic acid (SA), each on top of an isocaloric basic diet. Oocytes were collected via ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration and subjected to in vitro maturation followed by either desorption electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) for lipid profiling of individual oocytes or in vitro fertilisation and embryo culture. The type of supplement significantly affected lipid profiles of in vitro-matured oocytes. Palmitic acid and plasmalogen species were more abundant in the mass spectra of in vitro-matured oocytes after rumen-protected SA supplementation when compared with those collected from animals supplemented with CLA. Lipid concentrations in blood and follicular fluid were significantly affected by both supplements. Results show that rumen-protected fatty-acid supplementation affects oocyte lipid content and may pave the way for the establishment of a large-animal model for studies towards a better understanding of reproductive disorders associated with nutritional impairments.
Creating effective illustrations for pictorial assembly instructions
Authors: Schumacher Peter
Published: February 2015

Pictorial assembly instructions are a common element of many consumer products however there is very little research published about their design, particularly regarding the creation of effective illustrations. This paper reviews published work that offers best practice guidelines for the design of pictorial assembly instructions. The application of the guidelines is discussed in the context of a project to design assembly instructions for a flat pack wheelchair for distribution in developing countries. The paper will present findings from diagnostic testing with users in Sri Lanka.
Detectability of Pacific Lamprey Occupancy in Western Drainages: Implications for Distribution Surveys
Authors: Reid Stewart B. , Goodman Damon H.
Published: February 2015

The historical North American range of Pacific Lamprey Entosphenus tridentatus extends from the northern Baja California of Mexico to Alaska and inland in suitable habitat as far as there is access to the sea. The population of Pacific Lamprey has declined recently, yet we know little about its actual distribution, and that distribution is changing as the species declines in abundance. We evaluated detection and occupancy probabilities for Pacific Lamprey over a broad region encompassing a wide range of landscapes and drainage sizes. We analyze 110 sites, each representing individual drainages or major subdrainages from the southern border of British Columbia to San Francisco, including over 1,900 km of coastline and the Columbia River basin. Using lamprey‐specific electrofishers in suitable habitat low in a drainage we found detection probability of ammocoetes at single sites in occupied drainages was generally high at >90%. If not initially detected, then two additional sites provided >95% confidence of absence. The four geographic regions (Washington, Oregon coast, Columbia River basin, and northern California coast) had similar detection and occupancy probabilities, making these results broadly applicable and comparable. Results are incorporated into guidance for development of effective surveys over a broad scale and will be crucial to establishing occupancy of Pacific Lamprey for purposes of management, planning and monitoring of its changing distribution.

Received July 6, 2014; accepted November 18, 2014
Identification of a key residue in Kv7.1 potassium channel essential for sensing external potassium ions
Authors: Wang Wenying , Flores Maria Cristina Perez , Sihn Choong-Ryoul , Kim Hyo Jeong , Zhang Yinuo , Doyle Karen J. , Chiamvimonvat Nipavan , Zhang Xiao-Dong , Yamoah Ebenezer N.
Published: February 2015

Kv7.1 voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channels are present in the apical membranes of marginal cells of the stria vascularis of the inner ear, where they mediate K+ efflux into the scala media (cochlear duct) of the cochlea. As such, they are exposed to the K+-rich (∼150 mM of external K+ (K+e)) environment of the endolymph. Previous studies have shown that Kv7.1 currents are substantially suppressed by high K+e (independent of the effects of altering the electrochemical gradient). However, the molecular basis for this inhibition, which is believed to involve stabilization of an inactivated state, remains unclear. Using sequence alignment of S5-pore linkers of several Kv channels, we identified a key residue, E290, found in only a few Kv channels including Kv7.1. We used substituted cysteine accessibility methods and patch-clamp analysis to provide evidence that the ability of Kv7.1 to sense K+e depends on E290, and that the charge at this position is essential for Kv7.1’s K+e sensitivity. We propose that Kv7.1 may use this feedback mechanism to maintain the magnitude of the endocochlear potential, which boosts the driving force to generate the receptor potential of hair cells. The implications of our findings transcend the auditory system; mutations at this position also result in long QT syndrome in the heart.
Refined Multidisciplinary Protocol‐Based Approach to Short Bowel Syndrome Improves Outcomes
Authors: Merras‐Salmio Laura , Pakarinen Mikko P.
Published: February 2015

Objective:

Management of short bowel syndrome (SBS) has significantly evolved recently. We present our single‐center, 25‐year experience focusing on the implementation of a refined multidisciplinary SBS care protocol.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of the patients with SBS treated at our tertiary center from 1988 to 2014, with either <25% short bowel remaining or duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) >3 months. Patients with primary intestinal motility disorders were excluded. Clinical characteristics, including intestinal anatomy, markers of cholestasis, and catheter‐related infections (CRIs), were analyzed. The implementation of a refined modern uniform management protocol in 2009 divided the cohort into 2 subgroups, whose outcomes are compared.

Results:

Forty‐eight patients with SBS were identified (median gestational age 33 weeks). Of them, 22 were born between 2009 and 2014. The main causes of SBS were necrotizing enterocolitis (46%) and midgut volvulus (23%). Median remaining small bowel length was 36 cm. The overall survival was 23 of 26 (88%) before 2009 and 21 of 22 (95%) thereafter, whereas none were transplanted. Duration of PN shortened from a median of 15 to 6 months (P = 0.0015) in the latter cohort, whereas frequency of autologous intestinal reconstruction surgery (31%) remained unchanged. Frequency of neonatal cholestasis was similar in both groups (75%), but cleared in all after 2009. Before 2009, 2 patients died of progressive cholestatic liver failure. The CRI rates decreased from 1.7 to 0.7 per 1000 catheter‐days between 2000–2008 and 2009–2014, respectively (P = 0.0178).

Conclusions:

Uniform refined multidisciplinary approach decreased the duration of PN and CRI rates with high transplant‐free survival and avoidance of liver failure, although the frequency of transient neonatal cholestasis remained unchanged.
A case of diabetic foot ulcers complicated by severe infection and sepsis with Trueperella bernardiae
Authors: Schneider Uffe Vest , Ekenberg Christina , Sode Nikolaj , Knudsen Jenny Dahl
Published: February 2015

Introduction:

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) allows us to identify bacteria directly from positive blood cultures with detailed taxonomy naming of the bacterial strains. Knowing the name of the infective bacteria makes it possible to adjust the antibiotic therapy early on. However, it also gives rise to detection of a number of unusual pathogens, which raises new questions on the pathogenicity and medical importance of a number of rarely isolated bacteria such as Trueperella bernardiae.

Case presentation:

We describe a case of diabetic foot ulcers in a 45‐year‐old male, which led to below‐the‐knee amputation due to widespread infection and sepsis with T. bernardiae and co‐infection with Peptoniphilus lacrimalis. The patient was treated initially with surgical debridement in combination with piperacillin/tazobactam and thereafter with amoxicillin for a total period of 1 month.

Conclusion:

Based on this case, as well as previous case reports in the literature, we conclude that T. bernardiae is a rarely isolated low‐pathogenic bacterium in patients with severe co‐morbidities. Often co‐infection with other low‐pathogenic bacteria is observed. T. bernardiae is susceptible to and readily treated with β‐lactam antibiotics.
Extrapulmonary intrathoracic blastomycosis: a case report and systematic literature review
Authors: Putman Michael S. , Shah Nirav S. , Husain Aliya N. , David Michael Z.
Published: February 2015

Introduction:

Mediastinal blastomycosis has been described in multiple case reports, but no review to date has catalogued its various manifestations or response to treatment.

Case presentation:

An otherwise healthy 18‐year‐old female presented with lymphadenopathy and was found to have a large mediastinal mass concerning for lymphoma. A subsequent biopsy revealed Blastomyces dermatitidis; the patient responded well to therapy with amphotericin B and itraconazole. Similar cases are reviewed and analysed.

Conclusion:

Mediastinal blastomycosis is a rare but life‐threatening disease manifestation that responds readily to appropriate antifungal therapy.
Crystal structure of bis(μ2-4-tert-butyl-2-formylphenolato)-1:2κ3O1,O2:O1;3:4κ3O1,O2:O1-bis(4-tert-butyl-2-formylphenolato)-2κ2O1,O2;4κ2O1,O2-di-μ3-methoxido-1:2:3κ3O;1:3:4κ3O-di-μ2-methoxido-1:4κ2O;2:3κ2O-tetracopper(II)
Authors: Bugenhagen Bernhard Eberhard Christian , Prosenc Marc Heinrich
Published: February 2015

The structure of the title compound, [Cu4(CH3O)4(C11H13O2)4], consists of dimeric dinuclear copper(II) complexes oriented around a centre of inversion. Within each dinuclear fragment, the two CuIIatoms are in a distorted square-planar coordination sphere. Two neighbouring fragments are linked by four apical Cu—O contacts, yielding an overall square-pyramidal coordination environment for each of the four CuIIatoms. The molecules are arranged in layers parallel to (101). Non-classical C—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions are observed between the layers.
Crystal structure of 1-methoxypyrene
Authors: Morales-Espinoza Eric G. , Rivera Ernesto , Reyes-Martínez Reyna , Hernández-Ortega Simón , Morales-Morales David
Published: February 2015

The title compound, C17H12O, crystallized with three independent molecules (A,BandC) in the asymmetric unit. In the crystal, the three independent molecules are linked by π–π interactions [centroid–centroid distances = 3.551 (3)–3.977 (2) Å], which lead to the formation of trimers. Between the trimers there are a number of C—H...π interactions generating a laminar arrangement parallel to (010). The methoxymethyl group in moleculeAis disordered over two sets of sites, with an occupancy ratio of 0.56 (9):0.44 (9).
Last drinks: A study of rural emergency department data collection to identify and target community alcohol‐related violence
Authors: Miller Peter , Droste Nicolas , Baker Tim , Gervis Cathreena
Published: February 2015

Objective

The present study summarises the methodology and findings of a pilot project designed to measure the sources and locations of alcohol‐related harm by implementing anonymised ‘last drinks’ questions in the ED of a rural community.

Methods

‘Last drinks’ questions were added to computerised triage systems at South West Healthcare ED in rural Warrnambool, Victoria, from 1 November 2013 to 3 July 2014. For all injury presentations aged 15 years or older, attendees were asked whether alcohol was consumed in the 12 h prior to injury, how many standard drinks were consumed, where they purchased most of the alcohol and where they consumed the last alcoholic drink.

Results

From 3692 injury attendances, 10.8% (n = 399) reported consuming alcohol in the 12 h prior to injury. ‘Last drinks’ data collection was 100% complete for participants who reported alcohol use prior to injury. Approximately two‐thirds (60.2%) of all alcohol‐related presentations had purchased their alcohol at packaged liquor outlets. During high‐alcohol hours, alcohol‐related injuries accounted for 36.1% (n = 101) of all ED injury presentations, and in total 41.7% of alcohol‐related attendances during these hours reported consuming last drinks at identifiable hotels, bars, nightclubs or restaurants, or identifiable public areas/events.

Conclusions

This pilot demonstrates the feasibility and reliability of implementing sustainable ‘last drinks’ data collection methods in the ED, and the ability to effectively map the source of alcohol‐related ED attendances in a rural community.
Seagrass biofilm communities at a naturally CO2‐rich vent
Authors: Hassenrück Christiane , Hofmann Laurie C. , Bischof Kai , Ramette Alban
Published: February 2015

Seagrass meadows are a crucial component of tropical marine reef ecosystems. Seagrass plants are colonized by a multitude of epiphytic organisms that contribute to broadening the ecological role of seagrasses. To better understand how environmental changes like ocean acidification might affect epiphytic assemblages, the microbial community composition of the epiphytic biofilm of Enhalus acroides was investigated at a natural CO2 vent in Papua New Guinea using molecular fingerprinting and next‐generation sequencing of 16S and 18S rRNA genes. Both bacterial and eukaryotic epiphytes formed distinct communities at the CO2‐impacted site compared with the control site. This site‐related CO2 effect was also visible in the succession pattern of microbial epiphytes. We further found an increased relative sequence abundance of bacterial types associated with coral diseases at the CO2‐impacted site (Fusobacteria, Thalassomonas), whereas eukaryotes such as certain crustose coralline algae commonly related to healthy reefs were less diverse. These trends in the epiphytic community of E. acroides suggest a potential role of seagrasses as vectors of coral pathogens and may support previous predictions of a decrease in reef health and prevalence of diseases under future ocean acidification scenarios.
Sex reassignment of transsexual people from a gynecologist's and urologist's perspective
Authors: Trum Hans W. , Hoebeke Piet , Gooren Louis J.
Published: February 2015

Cross‐sex hormone treatment of transgender persons is usually uneventful, but hormone‐sensitive malignancies of the (reproductive) organs of the natal and new sex (breasts, neovagina) may arise. Sex reassignment surgery impacts on the urodynamics of the reassigned sex. Pathology originating from organ systems of the natal sex may be overlooked in the new sex. In male‐to‐female transgender individuals, malignant tumors of the breasts and prostate may occur. Neovaginas are constructed with skin or sigmoid. Shortening of the male urethra to female dimensions is usually uneventful. In female‐to‐male transgender individuals breast cancer may develop, sometimes in residual mammary tissue after reductive mammoplasty. Malignancies of the vagina and ovaries are rare. Testosterone may be aromatized to estrogens, with effects on the endometrium. Lengthening of the female urethra to male dimensions may cause urethral fistulae, urethral strictures, and meatal stenoses. A degree of post‐voiding incontinence may occur.
Hours in non‐parental child care are related to language development in a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Luijk M. P. C. M. , Linting M. , Henrichs J. , Herba C. M. , Verhage M. L. , Schenk J. J. , Arends L. R. , Raat H. , Jaddoe V. W. V. , Hofman A. , Verhulst F. C. , Tiemeier H. , van IJzendoorn M. H.
Published: February 2015

Background

The effects of child care services on several domains of child development have been extensively investigated, but evidence regarding the effects of child care on language development remains inconclusive.

Methods

Within a large‐scale population‐based study, we examined the longitudinal associations between non‐parental child care and language development from 1 to 6 years (n = 5375).

Results

Results showed that more hours in non‐parental child care were associated with better language abilities. However, more hours in care in the first year of life were associated with less language proficiency at ages 1 to 1.5. At later ages, this effect disappeared and language proficiency increased. Furthermore, children who spent more hours in centre‐based care had better language scores than children in home‐based care. Ethnicity, socio‐economic status, gender or parity did not change these results.

Conclusions

This large, multi‐ethnic study demonstrates beneficial effects of non‐parental child care, particularly centre‐based care, on language proficiency later in childhood.
Long‐term outcomes after vestibuloplasty with a porcine collagen matrix (Mucograft®) versus the free gingival graft: a comparative prospective clinical trial
Authors: Schmitt Christian M. , Moest Tobias , Lutz Rainer , Wehrhan Falk , Neukam Friedrich W. , Schlegel Karl Andreas
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Porcine collagen matrices are proclaimed being a sufficient alternative to autologous free gingival grafts (FGG) in terms of augmenting the keratinized mucosa. The collagen matrix Mucograft® (CM) already showed a comparable clinical performance in the early healing phase, similar histological appearance, and even a more natural appearance of augmented regions. Predictability for long‐term stability does not yet exist due to missing studies reporting of a follow‐up >6 months.

Material and methods

The study included 48 patients with atrophic edentulous or partially edentulous lower jaw situations that had undergone an implant treatment. In the context of implant exposure, a vestibuloplasty was either performed with two FGGs from the palate (n = 21 patients) or with the CM (n = 27 patients). Surgery time was recorded from the first incision to the last suture. Follow‐up examinations were performed at the following time points: 10, 30, 90, and 180 days and 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years after surgery. The width of keratinized mucosa was measured at the buccal aspect of each implant, and augmented sites were evaluated in terms of their clinical appearances (texture and color).

Results

The groups showed similar healing with increased peri‐implant keratinized mucosa after surgery (FGG: 13.06 mm ± 2.26 mm and CM: 12.96 mm ± 2.86 mm). The maximum follow‐up was 5 years (5 patients per group). After 180 days, the width of keratinized mucosa had decreased to 67.08 ± 13.85% in the FGG group and 58.88 ± 14.62% in the CM group with no statistically significant difference. The total loss of the width of keratinized mucosa after 5 years was significant between the FGG (40.65%) and the CM group (52.89%). The CM group had significantly shorter operation times than the FGG group. Augmented soft tissues had a comparable clinical appearance to adjacent native gingiva in the CM group. FGGs could still be defined after 5 years.

Conclusions

The FGG and the CM are both suitable for the regeneration of the peri‐implant keratinized mucosa with a sufficient long‐term stability. With the CM, tissue harvesting procedures are invalid, surgery time can be reduced, and regenerated tissues have a more esthetic appearance.