bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy and Applicability of Resting Metabolic Rate Prediction Equations Differ for Women Across the Lifespan
Authors: Woolf Kathleen , Miller Shirley , Reese Christine , Beaird Leah , Mason Maureen
Published: July 2015

Background: Nutrition clinicians need accurate and reliable resting metabolic rate (RMR) assessments to determine energy needs and an appropriate nutrition care plan.
Material/Methods: This cross-sectional study compared the accuracy of eight RMR prediction equations (Harris-Benedict, Robertson and Reid, Cunningham 1980, FAO/WHO/UNU, Owen, Mifflin-St. Jeor, Cunningham 1991, and Nelson) to measured RMR by indirect calorimetry among young (n=57; age: 25±3 years), midlife (n=57; age: 44±3 years), and older (n=46; age: 68±5 years) women. Paired t-tests examined differences between predicted and measured RMR. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (version 21), with significance defined as p<0.05. Bland-Altman plots displayed prediction bias and agreement. Prediction accuracy was defined when predicted RMR was ±10% of measured RMR. Serum thyroid stimulating hormone and follicle stimulating hormone concentrations were measured to assess thyroid function and ovarian reserve, respectively.
Results: The difference between predicted and measured RMR ranged from +0.6% (Owen) to +17.7% (Cunningham 1980) for the young, -2.8% (Nelson) to +18.1% (Cunningham 1980) midlife, and +2.8 (Nelson) to +26.7% (Cunningham 1980) older women. For the young women, only the Owen equation predicted RMR similar to measured RMR (p=0.905). For the older women, only the Nelson equation predicted RMR similar to measured RMR (p=0.051). All estimates using prediction equations were significantly different from measured values for midlife women.
Conclusion: Many RMR prediction equations have limited applicability for women at difference stages of the lifespan, thus impacting patient outcomes. Additional research is necessary to determine the appropriateness of RMR prediction equations among women of all ages.
Nutraceuticals as Functional Foods
Authors: Gupta Somya , Parvez Nayyar , Sharma Pramod Kumar
Published: July 2015

Nutraceuticals are considered to be fortified or enriched foods providing all the essential nutrients required for maintaining the optimal health. A numerous studies have suggested the potential association of nutraceuticals with diet and health. This article gives a brief review on the classification of nutraceuticals on the basis of the availability of the nutraceutical from the natural sources which is further being processed and proving its medical health benefits in the market. The review also summarizes about the functional nutraceuticals acting as dietary supplements, suggested to have the capacity to significantly contribute to the modulation of the complex mechanisms of disease pathology with a view being that they may be essential in optimizing in vivo defences and help in maintaining wellness. Nonetheless, several more clinical and biological studies are needed to support guidelines for the intake of nutraceutical for the prevention and treatment in specific diseases and its medical benefits.
Nutritional Status of Female Adolescents and Early Adults in Aseer Region, Abha District
Authors: Sachithananthan Vedavalli , Jehan Nusreth
Published: July 2015

The nutritional status of adolescents and early adults is ‘at risk’ because of the booming up of the fast food industry and decline in physical activity. An attempt was made in this study to understand the nutritional status of female adolescents and early adults in Aseer region of Abha district. Using a structured and validated questionnaire, the age, height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference income and education of parents and physical activity were assessed. The anthropometric profile (Mean) indicates that almost all parameters were within normal range. However 36.6 percent of the subjects fell in the ‘at risk’ category of waist hip ratio. With respect to the body mass index, a majority of the subjects were normal weight (68.3%), followed by 16.8 percent who were overweight and 14.9 percent underweight. In conclusion it can be stated that the overweight and underweight subjects should be brought to the normal weight category by consuming a nutritionally balanced diet and adequate physical activity to prevent malnutrition problems and chronic diseases for the underweight and overweight adolescents and early adults in the long run.
The Fall of Oil Prices and Changes in the Dynamic Relationship between the Stock Markets of Russia and Kazakhstan
Authors: Sultonov Mirzosaid
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we investigate the dynamic relationship between the stock markets of Russia and Kazakhstan and the effect of oil price volatility on both markets. This research differs from the studies of the effect of oil prices on stock markets as it considers the relationship between two post-Soviet transition and developing economies that are highly dependent on the export of oil. The derived results reveal significant interdependence among variations in the stock markets of Russia and Kazakhstan, crude oil prices and the association of falling oil prices with global and Russian crises.
Sleeping with the “Enemy”
Authors: Reeves Matthew
Published: July 2015

In 2012, the Archaeology Department at James Madison’s Montpelier began an experimental program with Minelab Americas to encourage metal detectorists to become more involved in the scientific process of archaeological research. Specifically, the program is designed to be a week-long experience in which archaeologists and metal detectorists work together to identify and preserve archaeological sites at the 2,700-acre Montpelier property. In the process, the metal detector participants are taught the importance of site preservation through background lectures and hands-on field training in which they use their metal detectors as a remote sensing device. Participants learn how gridded metal detector surveys are conducted and the importance of proper context and curation of recovered objects. The team-based approach of our program has resulted in a co-creation process whereby metal detectorists bring to the table their skills in using their machines to identify subtle metallic artifact signals and archaeologists bring the skill of systematic survey techniques to map and record archaeological sites. In the end, teamwork encourages open and frank discussions regarding the interface between metal detecting and the archaeological communities and has gone a long way toward reconciling differences between these two groups who have a long history of strained relations.
Cemeteries as Participatory Museums
Authors: Miller Sarah E.
Published: July 2015

Preservationists and archaeologists often assess cemeteries for their research value as cultural resources of communities. Cemeteries hold significant interpretive and educational value because they serve communities as outdoor museums (Meyers 1996). The Cemetery Resource Protection Training (CRPT) workshop, developed by the Florida Public Archaeology Network (FPAN), engages the public by providing an archaeological perspective and hands-on experiences for local communities to aid them in addressing the real-world problem of neglected historic cemeteries. After completing over 36 workshops in 28 different communities, the CRPT workshop template has proven to be a highly transferable means to provide education and outreach to underserved communities and sites, as directed in FPAN’s mission. This paper considers cemeteries as participatory museums using Nina Simon’s (2010) co-creation framework. Following a brief summary of cemetery training programs and a review of the larger cemetery crisis in Florida, the rationale for creation of the CRPT program and building blocks of the workshop are provided for other public archaeologists to adapt for training cemetery stewards. Finally, the creation of training opportunities for nonprofessionals as an advance in public archaeology practice is discussed.
Comprendre le rôle de passeuses culturelles que jouent les enseignantes afin de mieux intervenir en milieu francophone minoritaire
Authors: Richard Monique , Gaudet Jeanne d’Arc
Published: July 2015

Cet article présente les résultats d’une étude phénoménologique herméneutique visant à comprendre le sens que des enseignantes d’écoles de langue française en contexte minoritaire du Nouveau-Brunswick accordent à leur rôle de passeuses culturelles. Nous exposons particulièrement la manière dont leurs divers parcours culturels et identitaires semblent influencer leur rapport à la culture et à leurs pratiques culturelles en classe. Les résultats font donc valoir la pertinence d’inciter le personnel enseignant à réfléchir sur ces enjeux pour lui faire comprendre comment son propre développement linguistique et culturel influence ses pratiques dans l’accompagnement des élèves dans leur construction identitaire.
Home Cooking National Cuisine: How Jewish-Israeli Middle-Class Women Savour Homei
Authors: Ore Hadas
Published: July 2015

This study uses the lens of Jewish-Israeli middle-class women’s home cooking and nostalgia to account for the reformulation of Israel’s national cuisine over three generations. My historic analysis incorporates two recent developments in the social theory of nostalgia, which argue that women negotiate gendered power relations in the family through this complex emotion, and also critique their national home. The analysis illustrates how the Zionist ideology employed nostalgia and the food arena to constitute gendered myths during the first phase, from the pre state 1920s to the 1960s (post state). These myths served the “double colonisation” of the Jewish-Arab and Arab populations by the Ashkenazi elite. The analysis also regards the societal responses to second-wave feminism in the food arena during the second phase, post 1960s. My focus on the nostalgia and home cooking of middle-class women throughout the analysis shows their dishes are enactment of ethnic diversity. Yet beyond this point, my focus illustrates that women’s home cooking is a manifestation of their longing to return to homelands (other than Israel). This idea indicates that women employ their dishes to negotiate kinship, ethnic and class-based relationships that reshape the national cuisine over generations. While some women may contest the national Zionist hierarchy through nostalgic cooking, above all, their home cooked dishes depict struggles to constitute collective belonging. Examining women’s metaphoric journey home through their cooking should, therefore, serve future comparative analysis that looks into the reformation of national cuisines in other post-colonial societies.
Anatomical Characteristics of the Flexor Digitorum Accessorius Longus Muscle and Their Relevance to Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Deleu Paul-André , Bevernage Bernhard Devos , Birch Ivan , Maldague Pierre , Gombault Vincent , Leemrijse Thibaut
Published: July 2015

Background

Clinical and cadaver studies have reported that supernumerary muscles could be the etiology of a variety of pathologic disorders, such as posterior impingement syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS), and flexor hallucis longus tenosynovitis. We describe a unique variant of the flexor digitorum accessorius longus (FDAL) muscle as an apparent cause of TTS, functioning as an independent flexor of the second toe, which has not been described in the literature. In addition to this case report, a systematic review was performed of TTS caused by the FDAL muscle.

Methods

A targeted search of PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Web of Science identified full-text papers that fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

Twenty-nine papers were identified for inclusion in the systematic review: 12 clinical papers of TTS caused by the FDAL muscle and 17 cadaver-based papers.

Conclusions

Clinicians often do not include the FDAL muscle in the differential diagnosis of TTS. This literature review suggests that the FDAL is an important muscle in terms of its functional and clinical significance. Knowledge of this muscle, its anatomical location and variations, and its magnetic resonance imaging characteristics may help clinicians make an accurate differential diagnosis.
A Calcified Lipoma of the Foot in a 100-Year-Old Italian Woman
Authors: Cozzani Emanuele C. , Javor Sanja , Odetti Patrizio , Drago Francesco , Parodi Maria Nives , Monacelli Fiammetta , Parodi Aurora
Published: July 2015

Lipomas are the most common benign soft-tissue tumors found in the body. They tend to occur in areas of abundant adipose tissue, which explains why they are rarely found in the sole. Very few published cases of lipomas in the sole exist. When lipomas cannot be excised for histologic confirmation, ultrasonography has been shown to be a valuable assessment tool with high diagnostic capabilities. We present the case of 100-year-old patient with a long-standing plantar mass with late-stage clinical and sonographic features of a calcified lipoma.
Registered report: the microRNA miR-34a inhibits prostate cancer stem cells and metastasis by directly repressing CD44
Authors: Li Jia , Lam Matthew ,   Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology
Published: July 2015

The Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology seeks to address growing concerns about reproducibility in scientific research by conducting replications of selected experiments from a number of high-profile papers in the field of cancer biology. The papers, which were published between 2010 and 2012, were selected on the basis of citations and Altimetric scores (Errington et al., 2014). This Registered report describes the proposed replication plan of key experiments from ‘The microRNA miR-34a inhibits prostate cancer stem cells and metastasis by directly repressing CD44’ by Liu and colleagues published in Nature Medicine in 2011 (Liu et al., 2011). Liu and colleagues first demonstrated that miR-34a levels were reduced in CD44+ prostate cancer cells (Figure 1B). They then showed that xenograft tumors from cells expressing exogenous miR-34a were smaller in size than control tumors (Supplemental Figure 5C). Tumors with exogenous miR-34a showed reduced levels of CD44 expression (Figure 4A), and mutation of two putative miR-34a binding sites in the CD33 3′ UTR partially abrogated signal repression in a luciferase assay (Figure 4D). The Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology is a collaboration between the Center for Open Science and Science Exchange, and the results of the replications will be published by eLife.
Major Lung Resections Using Manual Suturing Versus Staplers During Fiscal Crisis
Authors: Potaris Konstantinos , Kapetanakis Emmanouil , Papamichail Konstantinos , Midvighi Elena , Verveniotis Alexis , Parissis Fotios , Apostolou Demetrios , Tziortziotis Vaios , Maimani Spyridoula , Pouliara Evangelia , Vogiatzis Gregorios , Kakaris Stamatis , Konstantinou Marios
Published: July 2015

During fiscal crisis there was a period of shortage of staplers in our hospital, which drove us to manual suturing of bronchi and pulmonary vessels during major lung resections. We present our experience during that period in comparison to a subsequent period when staplers became available again. A total of 256 lobectomies and 78 pneumonectomies using manual suturing (group A) were performed between September 2009 and September 2010, and were compared regarding surgical outcome with 248 lobectomies and 60 pneumonectomies using staplers (group B), performed between September 2011 and September 2012. Although we did not observe statistically significant differences but only a trend toward shorter operative time, for both lobectomies (P = 0.21) and pneumonectomies (P = 0.31) we actually noted savings of 41 and 47 minutes, respectively, in operative time using staplers (group B), in comparison with manual suturing (group A). We also observed a trend toward lower morbidity rates in group B patients who underwent lobectomy (10.48%) and pneumonectomy (20%) versus group A patients who underwent lobectomy (15.62%) and pneumonectomy (30.76%); we did not observe any substantial differences in the other surgical outcome variables, in patients' demographic, comorbidities, or in anatomic allocation of surgical procedures performed. The use of staplers offers safety with secure bronchial or vascular sealing, as well as reduction of operative time. Their unavailability at an interval during fiscal crisis, although it did not affect surgical outcome, revealed their usefulness and value.
Effect of Intraoperative PEEP Application on Colonic Anastomoses Healing: An Experimental Animal Study
Authors: Turkoglu Mehmet Akif , Bostancı Erdal Birol , Bilgili Hasan , Turkoglu Yıldız , Karadeniz Ümit , Aydoğ Gülden , Erçin Uğur , Bilgihan Ayşe , Özer İlter , Akoğlu Musa
Published: July 2015

This study aimed to assess the effect of intraoperative positive end–expiratory pressure (PEEP) intervention on the healing of colonic anastomoses in rabbits. A total of 32 New Zealand type male rabbits were divided into 2 groups of 16 animals each. Following ventilation with tracheostomy, colonic resection and anastomosis were performed in both groups. Although 10 cm of H2O PEEP level was applied in group 1 (PEEP), group 2 [zero end-expiratory pressure (ZEEP)] was ventilated without PEEP throughout the surgery. Half of both the PEEP and ZEEP group animals were killed on the third postoperative day, whereas the remaining half were killed on the seventh. Anastomotic bursting pressures, the tissue concentrations in hydroxyproline, and histologic assessments were performed. Intraoperative oxygen saturation and postoperative arterial blood gas parameters were also compared. On the first postoperative day, both arterial oxygen tension (PO2) and oxygen saturation (SO2) in the PEEP group were significantly higher than in the ZEEP group. On the seventh postoperative day, the bursting pressures of the anastomoses were significantly higher in the PEEP group; however, the hydroxyproline content was significantly lower in the PEEP group than in the ZEEP group. At day 7, the PEEP group was significantly associated with increased neoangiogenesis compared with the ZEEP group. The anastomotic healing process is positively influenced by the intraoperative PEEP application.
Influence of ENSO and the NAO on terrestrial carbon uptake in the Texas‐northern Mexico region
Authors: Parazoo Nicholas C. , Barnes Elizabeth , Worden John , Harper Anna B. , Bowman Kevin B. , Frankenberg Christian , Wolf Sebastian , Litvak Marcy , Keenan Trevor F.
Published: July 2015

Climate extremes such as drought and heat waves can cause substantial reductions in terrestrial carbon uptake. Advancing projections of the carbon uptake response to future climate extremes depends on (1) identifying mechanistic links between the carbon cycle and atmospheric drivers, (2) detecting and attributing uptake changes, and (3) evaluating models of land response and atmospheric forcing. Here, we combine model simulations, remote sensing products, and ground observations to investigate the impact of climate variability on carbon uptake in the Texas‐northern Mexico region. Specifically, we (1) examine the relationship between drought, carbon uptake, and variability of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) using the Joint UK Land‐Environment Simulator (JULES) biosphere simulations from 1950–2012, (2) quantify changes in carbon uptake during record drought conditions in 2011, and (3) evaluate JULES carbon uptake and soil moisture in 2011 using observations from remote sensing and a network of flux towers in the region. Long‐term simulations reveal systematic decreases in regional‐scale carbon uptake during negative phases of ENSO and NAO, including amplified reductions of gross primary production (GPP) (−0.42 ± 0.18 Pg C yr−1) and net ecosystem production (NEP) (−0.14 ± 0.11 Pg C yr−1) during strong La Niña years. The 2011 megadrought caused some of the largest declines of GPP (−0.50 Pg C yr−1) and NEP (−0.23 Pg C yr−1) in our simulations. In 2011, consistent declines were found in observations, including high correlation of GPP and surface soil moisture (r = 0.82 ± 0.23, p = 0.012) in remote sensing‐based products. These results suggest a large‐scale response of carbon uptake to ENSO and NAO, and highlight a need to improve model predictions of ENSO and NAO in order to improve predictions of future impacts on the carbon cycle and the associated feedbacks to climate change.
Sources of new nitrogen in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Raes Eric J. , Thompson Peter A. , McInnes Allison S. , Nguyen Hoang Minh , Hardman‐Mountford Nick , Waite Anya M.
Published: July 2015

Quantifying the different sources of nitrogen (N) within the N cycle is crucial to gain insights in oceanic phytoplankton production. To understand the controls of primary productivity and the associated capture of CO2 through photosynthesis in the southeastern Indian Ocean, we compiled the physical and biogeochemical data from four voyages conducted in 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013. Overall, higher NH4+ assimilation rates (~530 µmol m−2 h−1) relative to NO3− assimilation rates (~375 µmol m−2 h−1) suggest that the assimilation dynamics of C are primarily regulated by microbial regeneration in our region. N2 fixation rates did not decline when other source of dissolved inorganic nitrogen were available, although the assimilation of N2 is a highly energetic process. Our data showed that the diazotrophic community assimilated ~2 nmol N L−1 h−1 at relative elevated NH4+ assimilation rates ~12 nmol L−1 h−1 and NO3− assimilation rates ~6 nmol L−1 h−1. The small diffusive deep water NO3− fluxes could not support the measured NO3− assimilation rates and consequently point toward another source of dissolved inorganic NO3−. Highest NO2− values coincided consistently with shallow lower dissolved O2 layers (100–200 m; 100–180 µmol L−1). These results suggest that nitrification above the pycnocline could be a significant component of the N cycle in the eastern Indian Ocean. In our analysis we provide a conceptual understanding of how NO3− in the photic zone could be derived from new N through N2 fixation. We conclude with the hypothesis that N injected through N2 fixation can be recycled within the photic zone as NH4+ and sequentially oxidized to NO2− and NO3− in shallow lower dissolved oxygen layers.
In situ observations of multistage electron acceleration driven by magnetic reconnection
Authors: Wu Mingyu , Huang Can , Lu Quanming , Volwerk Martin , Nakamura Rumi , Vörös Zoltán , Zhang Tielong , Wang Shui
Published: July 2015

With observations of magnetic reconnection and the related bursty bulk flow (BBF) in the magnetotail by Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms mission, we investigate the process of the multistage acceleration of electrons in magnetotail reconnection events, which can be divided into three distinct stages: (1) first, electrons are accelerated in the vicinity of the X line where the electron temperature can be significantly raised while the energetic electron flux with the energy larger than tens of keV has no obvious enhancement. (2) Second, electrons suffer the nonadiabatic acceleration in the pileup region of magnetic reconnection, which results in the obvious enhancement of the energetic electron flux and the small increase of the electron temperature in the earthward flow. (3) At last, the energetic electron flux can be further raised in the BBFs due to adiabatic acceleration mechanisms. Our study indicates that low‐energy electrons can be accelerated to a high energy with a multistage process in magnetic reconnection events, which ranges from the vicinity of the X line to the BBFs.
Toward Standardized Musculoskeletal Ultrasound in Pediatric Rheumatology: Normal Age‐Related Ultrasound Findings
Authors: Collado Paz , Vojinovic Jelena , Nieto Juan Carlos , Windschall Daniel , Magni‐Manzoni Silvia , Bruyn George A. W. , Iagnocco Annamaria , D'agostino Maria Antonietta , Naredo Esperanza ,   on behalf of the Omeract Ultrasound Pediatric Group
Published: July 2015

Objective

The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Ultrasound Task Force has recently started to work on the validation and standardization of musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) examination in children in order to improve its applicability to joint examination.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter study performed by 4 experts in pediatric MSUS, who independently collected representative images using predefined scanning procedures of 4 joints (knee, ankle, wrist, and second metacarpophalangeal joint) in different predefined age groups. Researchers were allowed to use their own settings (B‐mode and Doppler) in order to get the best quality image and highest sensitivity for low blood flow. Images were evaluated for quality parameters and an atlas was created with the best images. An equipment comparative study was performed by a single examiner using 2 different types of machines.

Results

Sixty‐four healthy children were scanned. The quality of evaluated images, obtained by predefined scanning positions, was highly comparable among the examiners. The B‐mode images clearly showed age‐related variations of joint findings, while Doppler images showed the presence of blood flow, particularly within the epiphyseal cartilage of the children at a younger age. There was a high to good level of consistency between images obtained from the 2 different ultrasound machines.

Conclusion

The study shows a systematic method for ultrasound examination of children at different age groups. Additionally, a baseline collection of images was developed, showing blood vessels in the joints examined. The present study could provide a framework for ongoing MSUS studies as well as for clinical practice in pediatric rheumatology.
Enhanced Performance of Self‐Assembled Monolayer Field‐Effect Transistors with Top‐Contact Geometry through Molecular Tailoring, Heated Assembly, and Thermal Annealing
Authors: Cernetic Nathan , Weidner Tobias , Baio Joe E. , Lu Hao , Ma Hong , Jen Alex K.‐Y.
Published: July 2015

Low‐voltage self‐assembled monolayer field‐effect transistors (SAMFETs) that operate under an applied bias of less than −3 V and a high hole mobility of 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1 are reported. A self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) with a quaterthiophene semiconducting core and a phosphonic acid binding group is used to fabricate SAMFETs on both high‐voltage (AlOx/300 nm SiO2) and low‐voltage (HfO2) dielectric platforms. High performance is achieved through enhanced SAM packing density via a heated assembly process and through improved electrical contact between SAM semiconductor and metal electrodes. Enhanced electrical contact is obtained by utilizing a functional methylthio head group combined with thermal annealing post gold source/drain electrode deposition to facilitate the interaction between SAM and electrode.
“Chemical Weathering” Exfoliation of Atom‐Thick Transition Metal Dichalcogenides and Their Ultrafast Saturable Absorption Properties
Authors: Zhao Gang , Han Shuo , Wang Aizhu , Wu Yongzhong , Zhao Mingwen , Wang Zhengping , Hao Xiaopeng
Published: July 2015

2D transition metal dichalcogenides are attracting increased attention because of their excellent electronic and optical properties. Inspired by the natural weathering exfoliation of seaside rocks, a “chemical weathering” concept for fabricating atom‐thick 2D materials from their bulk counterparts is proposed. It is experimentally demonstrated that chemical weathering‐assisted exfoliation mechanism is a simple and efficient method of preparing atom‐thick MoS2 and WS2 monolayers. These monolayers are difficult to prepare using other approaches. Interestingly, the as‐prepared MoS2 and WS2 monolayers exhibit excellent saturable absorption and mode‐locking properties in all‐solid‐state lasers because of intermediate states resulting from S‐vacancy defects. The obtained passively Q‐switched laser operation with 60 ns pulse width and ultrafast mode locking with 8.6 ps pulse width are promising for all‐solid‐state laser application.
Nano‐Self‐Assembly of Nucleic Acids Capable of Transfection without a Gene Carrier
Authors: Lim Kwang Suk , Lee Daniel Y. , Valencia Gabriel M. , Won Young‐Wook , Bull David A.
Published: July 2015

Nonviral gene carriers based on electrostatic interaction, encapsulation, or absorption require a large amount of polymer carrier to achieve reasonable transfection efficiencies. With cationic nanoparticles, for example, genes interact only with the surface of the nanoparticles, resulting in a low surface area to volume ratio (SA/V = 3/r). A large volume of carrier, therefore, is required to deliver a small copy number of genes. In this study, it is demonstrated that a nano‐self‐assembly of nucleic acids transfects itself into cells spontaneously, without the need for a gene carrier. The cellular uptake of this nanoassembly occurs through a number of endocytosis mechanisms. Once within the cell, the nanoassembly can escape endolysosomal vesicles and facilitate gene transfection. This nano‐self‐assembly consisting of zinc and plasmid DNA or siRNA, termed the Zn/DNA or Zn/siRNA nanocluster, is formed through the binding of Zn2+ ions to the phosphate groups of nucleic acids. The method described in this paper represents a new platform for carrier‐free gene delivery that can be used to deliver any plasmid DNA or siRNA without the requirement for a specific modification in the nucleic acids or complicated steps to prepare dense particles.
Hydrophobin as a Nanolayer Primer That Enables the Fluorinated Coating of Poorly Reactive Polymer Surfaces
Authors: Gazzera Lara , Corti Claudio , Pirrie Lisa , Paananen Arja , Monfredini Alessandro , Cavallo Gabriella , Bettini Simona , Giancane Gabriele , Valli Ludovico , Linder Markus B. , Resnati Giuseppe , Milani Roberto , Metrangolo Pierangelo
Published: July 2015

A new and simple method is presented to fluorinate the surfaces of poorly reactive hydrophobic polymers in a more environmentally friendly way using the protein hydrophobin (HFBII) as a nanosized primer layer. In particular, HFBII, via electrostatic interactions, enables the otherwise inefficient binding of a phosphate‐terminated perfluoropolyether onto polystyrene, polypropylene, and low‐density polyethylene surfaces. The binding between HFBII and the perfluoropolyether depends significantly on the environmental pH, reaching the maximum stability at pH 4. Upon treatment, the polymeric surfaces mostly retain their hydrophobic character but also acquire remarkable oil repellency, which is not observed in the absence of the protein primer. The functionalization proceeds rapidly and spontaneously at room temperature in aqueous solutions without requiring energy‐intensive procedures, such as plasma or irradiation treatments.
Paired analysis of the microbiota of surface mucus and whole‐tissue specimens in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Kim Raymond J.T. , Biswas Kristi , Hoggard Michael , Taylor Michael W. , Douglas Richard G.
Published: July 2015

Background

The role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remains uncertain. Recent evidence suggests that bacteria are able to establish microcolonies within the underlying mucosa. However, to date there has been no systematic comparison of bacterial community composition and diversity in the surface mucosa with that of the underlying tissue.

Methods

Paired swabs and whole‐tissue samples were collected from the middle meatus of 9 patients with CRS undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery. The bacterial composition and diversity of the samples were determined using 16S rRNA gene amplicon pyrosequencing.

Results

The bacterial communities of both swabs and tissues were dominated by known residents of the sinonasal cavity such as Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, Prevotella, and Peptoniphilus. Although bacterial diversity (richness) did not differ between the 2 groups of samples, there were significant differences in the composition of bacterial communities. Molecular analyses revealed a large amount of interpersonal variation between patients.

Conclusion

Swab and tissue samples revealed similar bacterial diversity to each other and to that of other microbiota studies reported in the CRS literature. However, bacterial composition was significantly different between the 2 sample types, even though the tissue biopsies also comprise bacteria from the surface. We speculate that the bacteria on the surface seed the underlying tissue via the damaged epithelium in CRS patients, which over time develops into a distinct bacterial community.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed O‐ to S‐Alkyl Migration: A Pseudoreversible Barton–McCombie Pathway
Authors: Mahy William , Plucinski Pawel , Jover Jesús , Frost Christopher G.
Published: July 2015

A practical ruthenium‐catalyzed O‐ to S‐alkyl migration affords structurally diverse thiooxazolidinones in excellent yields. Our studies suggest this catalytic transformation proceeds through a pseudoreversible radical pathway drawing mechanistic parallels to the classic Barton–McCombie reaction.
Motivation to share knowledge using wiki technology and the moderating effect of role perceptions
Authors: Arazy Ofer , Gellatly Ian , Brainin Esther , Nov Oded
Published: July 2015

One of the key challenges for innovation and technology‐mediated knowledge collaboration within organizational settings is motivating contributors to share their knowledge. Drawing upon self‐determination theory, we investigate 2 forms of motivation: internally driven (autonomous motivation) and externally driven (controlled motivation). Knowledge sharing could be viewed as a required in‐role activity or as discretionary extra‐role behavior. In this study, we examine the moderating effect of role perceptions on the relations between each of the two motivational constructs and knowledge sharing, paying particular attention to the affordances of the enabling information technology. An analysis of survey data from a wiki‐based organizational encyclopedia in a large, multinational firm reveals that when contributors' motivation is externally driven, they are more likely to share knowledge if this activity is viewed as in‐role behavior. However, when contributors' motivation is internally driven, they are more likely to participate in knowledge sharing when this activity is viewed as extra‐role behavior. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Sharing “happy” information
Authors: Tinto Fiona , Ruthven Ian
Published: July 2015

This study focuses on the sharing of “happy” information: information that creates a sense of happiness within the individual sharing the information. We explore the range of factors motivating and impacting individuals' happy information‐sharing behavior within a casual leisure context through 30 semistructured interviews. The findings reveal that the factors influencing individuals' happy information‐sharing behavior are numerous, and impact each other. Most individuals considered sharing happy information important to their friendships and relationships. In various contexts the act of sharing happy information was shown to enhance the sharer's happiness.
Development, testing, and validation of an information literacy test (ILT) for higher education
Authors: Boh Podgornik Bojana , Dolničar Danica , Šorgo Andrej , Bartol Tomaž
Published: July 2015

A new information literacy test (ILT) for higher education was developed, tested, and validated. The ILT contains 40 multiple‐choice questions (available in Appendix) with four possible answers and follows the recommendations of information literacy (IL) standards for higher education. It assesses different levels of thinking skills and is intended to be freely available to educators, librarians, and higher education managers, as well as being applicable internationally for study programs in all scientific disciplines. Testing of the ILT was performed on a group of 536 university students. The overall test analysis confirmed the ILT reliability and discrimination power as appropriate (Cronbach's alpha 0.74; Ferguson's delta 0.97). The students' average overall achievement was 66%, and IL increased with the year of study. The students were less successful in advanced database search strategies, which require a combination of knowledge, comprehension, and logic, and in topics related to intellectual property and ethics. A group of 163 students who took a second ILT assessment after participating in an IL‐specific study course achieved an average posttest score of 78.6%, implying an average IL increase of 13.1%, with most significant improvements in advanced search strategies (23.7%), and in intellectual property and ethics (12.8%).
High‐Efficiency Supercapacitor Electrodes of CVD‐grown Graphenes Hybridized with Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Kalam Amir Abul , Park Soobin , Seo Yongho , Bae Joonho
Published: July 2015

We demonstrate, for the first time, high‐efficiency supercapacitors by utilizing chemical vapor deposition (CVD)‐grown graphenes hybridized with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). A single‐layer graphene was grown by simple CVD growth method, and transferred to polyethylene terephthalate substrates. The bare graphenes were further hybridized with multiwalled CNTs by drop‐coating CNTs on graphenes. The supercapacitors using bare graphenes and graphenes with CNTs revealed that graphenes with CNTs resulted in enhanced supercapacitor performances of 2.2‐ (the mass‐specific capacitance) and 4.4‐fold (the area‐specific capacitance) of those of bare graphenes. Our strategy to improve electrochemical performance of CVD‐grown graphenes is advantageous for large‐scale graphene electrodes due to high electrical conductivity of CVD‐grown graphenes and cost‐effectiveness of using multiwalled CNTs as compared to conventional employment of single‐walled CNTs.
Double Parricide: An In‐Depth Look at Two Victim Homicides Involving Parents as Victims
Authors: Fegadel Averi R. , Heide Kathleen M.
Published: July 2015

The majority of studies examining the killing of parents and step‐parents by biological and stepchildren involve a single victim and single offender. Little is known when parricide incidents involve multiple victims or multiple offenders. Using the National Incident‐Based Reporting System (NIBRS), this study examined double parricide incidents involving single or multiple offenders over the 20‐year period 1991–2010 with the aim of investigating juvenile and adult involvement. Forty‐five incidents of double parricide were identified and verified; in 35 of these cases, the offenders acted alone. Frequencies reported include offender, victim, and incident characteristics. The results indicated that the typical double parricide offender who acted alone was a White male approximately 30 years of age. When multiple offenders were involved, the offenders tended to be younger and were more likely to include a female accomplice. Newspapers were utilized to augment available case information. Study limitations, implications, and directions for future research are also discussed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitrogen‐Doped Ordered Mesoporous Carbon with Different Morphologies for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction: Effect of Iron Species and Synergy of Textural Properties
Authors: Yang Dae‐Soo , Bhattacharjya Dhrubajyoti , Song Min Young , Razmjooei Fatemeh , Ko Jaejung , Yang Quan‐Hong , Yu Jong‐Sung
Published: July 2015

Nitrogen‐doped ordered mesoporous carbons (N‐OMCs) with different morphologies are prepared as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts through pyrolysis of iron phthalocyanine‐infiltrated SBA‐15 silica with different mesochannel lengths. Excellent ORR activity with a nearly four‐electron transfer process is observed in both alkaline and acidic media. In particular, the difference in half‐wave potential for ORR relative to commercial Pt/C catalyst is only 50 mV negative in acidic medium, whereas it is 50 mV more positive in alkaline medium. Interestingly, it is found that although the use of iron is necessary for the preparation of highly active nitrogen‐doped ORR carbon catalysts, its presence is not necessary for N‐OMC to be active in the ORR in either alkaline or acidic media. In addition, the ORR activity increases gradually with decreasing mesopore channel length, with maximum activity in N‐OMC with short channels, demonstrating the high synergistic influence of structural morphology on ORR in heteroatom‐doped carbon.
Recyclable Hypervalent‐Iodine‐Mediated Dehydrogenative α,β′‐Bifunctionalization of β‐Keto Esters Under Metal‐Free Conditions
Authors: Duan Ya‐Nan , Cui Li‐Qian , Zuo Lin‐Hong , Zhang Chi
Published: July 2015

We have developed a method for recyclable hypervalent‐iodine‐mediated direct dehydrogenative α,β′‐ bifunctionalization of β‐ketoesters and β‐diketones under metal‐free conditions, which affords a straightforward way to synthesize benzo‐fused 2,3‐dihydrofurans. This efficient, mild method, which has a wide substrate scope and good functional‐group tolerance, was used for the multistep synthesis of the protected aglycone of a naturally occurring phenolic glycoside. A mechanism involving Michael addition to an enone intermediate and subsequent oxidative cyclization is proposed.
Palliative care for patients with end‐stage liver disease: The role of the liver team
Authors: Kelly Sean G. , Rice John P.
Published: July 2015

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Palliative care for patients with end‐stage liver disease: An overview
Authors: Rakoski Mina O. , Volk Michael L.
Published: July 2015

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A diagnostic model for impending death in cancer patients: Preliminary report
Authors: Hui David , Hess Kenneth , Santos Renata dos , Chisholm Gary , Bruera Eduardo
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Several highly specific bedside physical signs associated with impending death within 3 days for patients with advanced cancer were recently identified. A diagnostic model for impending death based on these physical signs was developed and assessed.

METHODS

Sixty‐two physical signs were systematically documented every 12 hours from admission to death or discharge for 357 patients with advanced cancer who were admitted to acute palliative care units (APCUs) at 2 tertiary care cancer centers. Recursive partitioning analysis was used to develop a prediction model for impending death within 3 days with admission data. The model was validated with 5 iterations of 10‐fold cross‐validation, and the model was also applied to APCU days 2 to 6.

RESULTS

For the 322 of 357 patients (90%) with complete data for all signs, the 3‐day mortality rate was 24% on admission. The final model was based on 2 variables (Palliative Performance Scale [PPS] and drooping of nasolabial folds) and had 4 terminal leaves: PPS score ≤ 20% and drooping of nasolabial folds present, PPS score ≤ 20% and drooping of nasolabial folds absent, PPS score of 30% to 60%, and PPS score ≥ 70%. The 3‐day mortality rates were 94%, 42%, 16%, and 3%, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy was 81% for the original tree, 80% for cross‐validation, and 79% to 84% for subsequent APCU days.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on 2 objective bedside physical signs, a diagnostic model was developed for impending death within 3 days. This model was applicable to both APCU admission and subsequent days. Upon further external validation, this model may help clinicians to formulate the diagnosis of impending death. Cancer 2015;121:3914–3921. © 2015 American Cancer Society.
Estimating user interaction strength in distributed online networks
Authors: Jia Adele Lu , Schoon Boudewijn , Pouwelse Johan A. , Epema Dick H. J.
Published: July 2015

User interactions are indispensable for any online network to thrive, especially for BitTorrent‐like and Web real‐time communication‐based distributed online networks that rely on users' collective contributions instead of the help of central servers. User interactions provide fine‐grained information for many applications, such as security enhancement and cooperation promotion. To date, several schemes for estimating user interaction strength in centralized online networks have been proposed. In contrast, we present design, deployment, and analysis of UISE for user interaction strength estimation in distributed online networks. Among the strong points of UISE is that it captures both direct and indirect user interactions, and that it scales with only partial information dissemination. We apply UISE to devise the first distributed scheme for online time estimation and we implement it into Tribler, a distributed online network for media and social applications like file sharing, streaming, and voting. We demonstrate the accuracy and the scalability of UISE with different information dissemination protocols and user behaviors using simulations, emulations, and a real‐world deployment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frailty may be a risk marker for adverse outcome in patients with congestive heart failure
Authors: Yamada Sumio , Kamiya Kuniyasu , Kono Yuji
Published: July 2015

Aims

To examine the availability of frailty concept with objective criteria for risk stratification in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF).

Methods and results

Study design was secondary analysis of our CHF cohort. We selected 181 patients who completed clinical assessments and were successfully followed 2‐year post discharge. To set frailty criteria, grip strength <26 kg in men and <17 kg in women (weakness) and performance measure for activities of daily living‐8 ≧21 points (exhaustion) were defined for predicting 6 min walking distance <300 m (slowness) by the receiver‐operating characteristics. During 2 years of follow up, subjects who met all the criteria had a 4 times greater risk of cardiac event compared with those with no frailty criteria.

Conclusion

The findings of present study suggest that frailty criteria may serve as a new clinical marker for management of patients with CHF.
Artificial Diiron Enzymes with a De Novo Designed Four‐Helix Bundle Structure
Authors: Chino Marco , Maglio Ornella , Nastri Flavia , Pavone Vincenzo , DeGrado William F. , Lombardi Angela
Published: July 2015

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Angela Lombardi at the University of Napoli “Federico II”, Italy. The cover image shows a construction site where workers are building up a four‐helix bundle scaffold. Fine‐tuning of the metal binding site, which is the heart of the construction, enables a specific function, such as oxidative chemistry. This approach has been successfully employed to develop diiron–oxo protein models.
Biological Oxidation Reactions
Authors: Vashi Preeti
Published: July 2015

EurJIC, with Guest Editors Ebbe Nordlander and Wesley Browne, offers a collection of high‐quality papers clustered around the theme Biological Oxidation Reactions – Mechanisms and Design of New Catalysts. This cluster issue is based on the COST Action CM1003 with the same name and presents the advances in designing new biological, biomimetic and bioinspired catalysts.
Fluoren‐9‐ylidene‐Based Dyes for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Tigreros Alexis , Rivera‐Nazario Danisha M. , Ortiz Alejandro , Martin Nazario , Insuasty Braulio , Echegoyen Luis A.
Published: July 2015

Three new dyes (1–3) with a triarylamine electron donor, a cyanoacrylic acid moiety as both electron acceptor and anchoring group, and a fluorene‐9‐ylidene moiety as an antenna were synthesized, and their electrochemical, photophysical, and photovoltaic properties were evaluated. Despite minor differences in absorption properties, as the starburst shape of the dyes increases and highly hindered hydrophobic groups are introduced, the measured open‐cell voltage (Voc) increased noticeably from 0.79 to 0.83 V, and the power‐conversion efficiency (PCE) value increased from 3.98 to 4.73 %.