bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of successive self-nucleation and annealing (SSA) to poly(1-butene) prepared by Ziegler–Natta catalysts with different external donors
Authors: Zheng Tao , Zhou Qian , Li Qian , Li Huayi , Zhang Liaoyun , Hu Youliang
Published: December 2014

SSA thermal fractionation technology could provide accurate characterization of the sequence length distribution of iPB.
Synthesis, stability and electrical properties of new soluble pentacenes with unsaturated side groups
Authors: Kim Heung Gyu , Choi Hyun Ho , Song Eunjoo , Cho Kilwon , Choi E-Joon
Published: December 2014

A series of pentacene derivatives with unsaturated hydrocarbon substituents at the 6,13-positions as side groups have been synthesized to improve the solubility and photooxidative stability of pentacene.
Optimization of the time and temperature of the microwave-assisted amination of phenylene-PMO
Authors: Lourenço Mirtha A. O. , Gomes José R. B. , Ferreira Paula
Published: December 2014

Microwave-assisted synthesis allows preparation of nitro- and amino-functionalized phenylene–PMO in just 15 and 30 minutes, respectively, with tunable content and homogeneous distribution of functional groups.
Enhanced photocatalytic efficiency of AuPd nanoalloy decorated ZnO-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites
Authors: Panigrahy Bharati , Sarma D. D.
Published: December 2014

Possible mechanism involved for the degradation of R6G dye upon UV irradiation by using ZnO–RGO–M (M = Au, Pd, AuPd) nanocomposite.
Tuning the fluorescence of aggregates for end-functionalized polymers through varying polymer chains with different polarities
Authors: Gu Pei-Yang , Zhang You-Hao , Chen Dong-Yun , Lu Cai-Jian , Zhou Feng , Xu Qing-Feng , Lu Jian-Mei
Published: December 2014

Two pyrazoline initiators and their four end-functionalized polymers have been prepared and their tunable emission behaviors have been investigated.
Magneto-separation of genomic deoxyribose nucleic acid using pH responsive Fe3O4@silica@chitosan nanoparticles in biological samples
Authors: Tiwari Arpita P. , Satvekar Rajshri K. , Rohiwal Sonali S. , Karande Vidya A. , Raut Abhinav V. , Patil Priti G. , Shete Prajakta B. , Ghosh S. J. , Pawar S. H.
Published: December 2014

Magneto-separation of genomic deoxyribose nucleic acid using pH responsive Fe3O4@silica@chitosan nanoparticles in biological samples.
Insulin-loaded hydroxyapatite combined with macrophage activity to deliver insulin for diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shyong Yen-Jye , Tsai Cheng-Chia , Lin Rui-Feng , Soung Hung-Sheng , Hsieh Hui-Chen , Hsueh Yu-Sheng , Chang Kuo-Chi , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: December 2014

InsHAP is engulfed by macrophages and the lysosome/endosome hybrid is broken down by osmosis, which facilitates delivery of insulin into the bloodstream.
Persistent organochlorine pesticides and oxidant/antioxidant status in the placental tissue of the women with full-term and pre-term deliveries
Authors: Anand M. , Agarwal P. , Singh L. , Taneja A.
Published: December 2014

In India pre-term birth is the leading cause of death of infants and this number is continuously increasing.
Nox and renal disease
Authors: Holterman Chet E. , Read Naomi C. , Kennedy Chris R. J.
Published: December 2014

Since the first demonstration of Nox enzyme expression in the kidney in the early 1990s and the subsequent identification of Nox4, or RENOX, a decade later, it has become apparent that the Nox family of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generating enzymes plays an integral role in the normal physiological function of the kidney. As our knowledge of Nox expression patterns and functions in various structures and specialized cell types within the kidney grows, so does the realization that Nox-derived oxidative stress contributes significantly to a wide variety of renal pathologies through their ability to modify lipids and proteins, damage DNA and activate transcriptional programmes. Diverse studies demonstrate key roles for Nox-derived ROS in kidney fibrosis, particularly in settings of chronic renal disease such as diabetic nephropathy. As the most abundant Nox family member in the kidney, much emphasis has been placed on the role of Nox4 in this setting. However, an ever growing body of work continues to uncover key roles for other Nox family members, not only in diabetic kidney disease, but in a diverse array of renal pathological conditions. The objective of the present review is to highlight the latest novel developments in renal Nox biology with an emphasis not only on diabetic nephropathy but many of the other renal disease contexts where oxidative stress is implicated.
Self-consistent field model for strong electrostatic correlations and inhomogeneous dielectric media
Authors: Ma Manman , Xu Zhenli
Published: December 2014

Electrostatic correlations and variable permittivity of electrolytes are essential for exploring many chemical and physical properties of interfaces in aqueous solutions. We propose a continuum electrostatic model for the treatment of these effects in the framework of the self-consistent field theory. The model incorporates a space- or field-dependent dielectric permittivity and an excluded ion-size effect for the correlation energy. This results in a self-energy modified Poisson-Nernst-Planck or Poisson-Boltzmann equation together with state equations for the self energy and the dielectric function. We show that the ionic size is of significant importance in predicting a finite self energy for an ion in an inhomogeneous medium. Asymptotic approximation is proposed for the solution of a generalized Debye-Hückel equation, which has been shown to capture the ionic correlation and dielectric self energy. Through simulating ionic distribution surrounding a macroion, the modified self-consistent field model is shown to agree with particle-based Monte Carlo simulations. Numerical results for symmetric and asymmetric electrolytes demonstrate that the model is able to predict the charge inversion at high correlation regime in the presence of multivalent interfacial ions which is beyond the mean-field theory and also show strong effect to double layer structure due to the space- or field-dependent dielectric permittivity.
Negative magnetoresistance in a low-k dielectric
Authors: McGowan B. T. , Lloyd J. R.
Published: December 2014

We observed negative magnetoresistance in amorphous SiCOH, a low-k dielectric, applying modest magnetic fields (<150 Gauss) at room temperature. The conductivity increases with increasing magnetic field. The change in conductivity due to the applied magnetic field increases with electric field and has little or no temperature dependence over the range studied. The magnitude of the effect is independent of the orientation of magnetic field relative to the direction of current flow. The effect is attributed to spin constraints associated with double occupancy of a trap site under the assumption that trap sites which have double occupancy have lower hopping frequencies than traps that have single occupancy.
Formation of conductive spontaneous via holes in AlN buffer layer on n+Si substrate by filling the vias with n-AlGaN by metal organic chemical vapor deposition and application to vertical deep ultraviolet photo-sensor
Authors: Kurose N. , Iwata N. , Kamiya I. , Aoyagi Y.
Published: December 2014

We have grown conductive aluminum nitride (AlN) layers using the spontaneous via holes formation technique on an n+-Si substrate for vertical-type device fabrication. The size and density of the via holes are controlled through the crystal growth conditions used for the layer, and this enables the conductance of the layer to be controlled. Using this technique, we demonstrate the fabrication of a vertical-type deep ultraviolet (DUV) photo-sensor. This technique opens up the possibility of fabrication of monolithically integrated on-chip DUV sensors and DUV light-emitting devices (LEDs), including amplifiers, controllers and other necessary functional circuits, on a Si substrate.
Sound credit scores and financial decisions despite cognitive aging
Authors: Li Ye , Gao Jie , Enkavi A. Zeynep , Zaval Lisa , Weber Elke U. , Johnson Eric J.
Published: December 2014

Significance

At a time when the world’s 65-and-older population will double by 2035, policy changes have transferred many complex financial and healthcare decisions to individuals. Age-related declines in cognitive ability raise the specter that older adults facing major financial decisions may find them increasingly challenging. We explore whether knowledge and expertise accumulated from past decisions can offset age-related cognitive declines. Using a unique dataset that combines measures of cognitive ability, knowledge, and credit scores—a measure of creditworthiness that reflects sustained ability for sound financial decision-making—we find that cognitive decline does not spell doom. Instead, domain-specific knowledge and expertise provide an alternative route to sound financial decisions. These results suggest guidelines for designing effective interventions and decision aids across the life span.
In vivo albumin labeling and lymphatic imaging
Authors: Wang Yu , Lang Lixin , Huang Peng , Wang Zhe , Jacobson Orit , Kiesewetter Dale O. , Ali Iqbal U. , Teng Gaojun , Niu Gang , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: December 2014

Significance

The imaging agent we developed in this study can be used for visualization and detection of sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs). After local injection, the imaging probe quickly formed a complex with albumin within the interstitial fluid. Thus, the radioactive signal reflects the behavior of endogenous albumin, avoiding the usage of colloids, nanoparticles, or polymers. The SLNs can be visualized by PET scans before surgery and then removed under the guidance of fluorescence signal and blue color deposit during surgery. The excellent imaging quality, easy preparation, multimodality, and biosafety guarantee the clinical translation to map SLNs and provide intraoperative guidance.
γδ T cells affect IL-4 production and B-cell tolerance
Authors: Huang Yafei , Heiser Ryan A. , Detanico Thiago O. , Getahun Andrew , Kirchenbaum Greg A. , Casper Tamara L. , Aydintug M. Kemal , Carding Simon R. , Ikuta Koichi , Huang Hua , Cambier John C. , Wysocki Lawrence J. , O’Brien Rebecca L. , Born Willi K.
Published: December 2014

Significance

This study changes our understanding of the relationship between T cells and B cells. Although it is known that T cells provide help for specific B-cell responses, it is unclear if and to what extent T cells also influence preimmune B-cell functions. We show here that γδ T cells modulate systemic antibody levels in nonimmunized mice, including all major subclasses and especially IgE antibodies. One mouse strain deficient in certain γδ T cells developed various autoantibodies, whereas mice deficient in all γδ T cells had relatively normal antibodies. Based on these and other findings, we conclude that γδ T cells, influenced by their own cross-talk, affect IL-4 production, B-cell activation, and B-cell tolerance.
Osteopetrosis in TAK1-deficient mice owing to defective NF-κB and NOTCH signaling
Authors: Swarnkar Gaurav , Karuppaiah Kannan , Mbalaviele Gabriel , Chen Tim (Hung-Po) , Abu-Amer Yousef
Published: December 2014

Significance

Skeletal anomalies are major health disparities resulting from dysregulation of bone homeostasis. Osteoclasts (OCs) are the principal bone resorbing and remodeling cells. The function of the OC relies on intricate signaling network dominated by NF-κB and MAP kinases. TGF-β activated kinase-1 (TAK1) is the proximal activator of these pathways and ultimately is a key target for regulating cellular functions. The role of TAK1 in physiologic and pathologic cellular functions has been widely described. However, the precise mechanism by which TAK1 regulates these functions remains enigmatic. We discovered a novel mechanism by which TAK1 regulates expression of the sensory proteins NUMB/NUMB-like and subsequent activation of Notch–recombinant recognition sequence binding protein at Jκ site (RBPJ) pathway in myeloid cells. We provide genetic evidence that dysregulation of this pathway leads to osteopetrosis.
Engineering an improved light-induced dimer (iLID) for controlling the localization and activity of signaling proteins
Authors: Guntas Gurkan , Hallett Ryan A. , Zimmerman Seth P. , Williams Tishan , Yumerefendi Hayretin , Bear James E. , Kuhlman Brian
Published: December 2014

Significance

Photoactivatable proteins are powerful tools for studying biological processes. Light-induced dimers are especially useful because they can be turned on and off with high spatial and temporal resolution in living systems, allowing for control of protein localization and activity. Here, we develop and apply methods for identifying mutations that improve the effectiveness of a light-induced dimer. The engineered switch is modular, can be used in most organisms, has more than 50-fold change in binding affinity upon light stimulation, and can be used to initiate signaling pathways in a specific region of a cell.
TAp73 suppresses tumor angiogenesis through repression of proangiogenic cytokines and HIF-1α activity
Authors: Stantic Marina , Sakil Habib A. M. , Zirath Hanna , Fang Trixy , Sanz Gema , Fernandez-Woodbridge Alejandro , Marin Ana , Susanto Evelyn , Mak Tak W. , Arsenian Henriksson Marie , Wilhelm Margareta T.
Published: December 2014

Significance

Angiogenesis, the development of blood vessels within a solid tumor, is not only essential for primary tumor growth but also vital for tumor invasion and metastasis. The
TP73
gene, a p53-family gene, encodes for both a tumor suppressor, TAp73, and an oncogene, ΔNp73. Here we report that TAp73 and ΔNp73 have opposing roles in tumor angiogenesis. Loss of TAp73 or upregulation of ΔNp73 leads to highly vascularized tumors and is found to correlate with increased angiogenesis in patients with breast cancer. Furthermore, we show that TAp73 suppress proangiogenic cytokines and HIF-1α protein accumulation and that this repression is unleashed on TAp73 loss or ΔNp73 up-regulation, thus further fuelling tumor development.
Controlling cell–cell interactions using surface acoustic waves
Authors: Guo Feng , Li Peng , French Jarrod B. , Mao Zhangming , Zhao Hong , Li Sixing , Nama Nitesh , Fick James R. , Benkovic Stephen J. , Huang Tony Jun
Published: December 2014

Significance

We present a unique acoustic well approach that can precisely control cell-to-cell distance and cell–cell interactions. Our technology can achieve high precision and high throughput simultaneously while preserving the integrity of cells. It is capable of creating cell assemblies with precise spatial control both in suspension and on a substrate. We envision the exploitation of this powerful technology, for example, in the study of cell–cell interactions in fields, such as immunology, developmental biology, neuroscience, and cancer metastasis, and in the studies of cell–cell and cell–matrix adhesion.
Patterns of accumulation of miRNAs encoded by herpes simplex virus during productive infection, latency, and on reactivation
Authors: Du Te , Han Zhiyuan , Zhou Guoying , Roizman Bernard
Published: December 2014

Significance

The mechanism by which HSV enters into a silent, latent state in neurons remains a major problem in virology. The only manifestations of viral gene expression during latency are the accumulation of a noncoding transcript and a set of microRNAs (miRNAs). Available data support the hypothesis that these play a role in the maintenance of the latent state and predict the accumulation of a different set of miRNAs during latency and reactivation. This report (
i
) supports the hypothesis that miRNAs arise during latency from multiple transcriptional events on the basis of location and differences in transcriptional regulation in productively infected cells and (
ii
) specifically identifies miRNAs that arise during reactivation and that differ from those accumulating in productively infected cells.
A democratic critique of precarity
Authors: Näsström Sofia , Kalm Sara
Published: December 2014

The term ‘precarity’ has become increasingly popular as a way to capture the material and psychological vulnerability resulting from neoliberal economic reforms. This article demonstrates that such precarity is incompatible with democracy. More specifically, it makes two arguments. First, and inspired by Montesquieu’s analysis of ‘the principles’, or public commitments behind different forms of government, it argues that modern democracy is asui generisform of government animated and sustained by a principle of shared responsibility. Second, it shows that this principle is negated by the neoliberal form of governing. The neoliberal policies currently operating in many democratic countries not only push ever more people into precarious conditions where they have to compete against each other for security and status; by displacing onto individuals a responsibility that ought to be shared and divided between citizens, they corrupt the core of democracy itself. The article thus suggests that precarity is problematic not only from the standpoint of social justice, as emphasized in earlier research, but also from the perspective of democracy. Precarity contradicts the ways of life that must be regenerated in order for a democratic form of government to sustain itself over time.
CONSRANK: a server for the analysis, comparison and ranking of docking models based on inter-residue contacts
Authors: Chermak Edrisse , Petta Andrea , Serra Luigi , Vangone Anna , Scarano Vittorio , Cavallo Luigi , Oliva Romina
Published: December 2014

Summary: Herein, we present CONSRANK, a web tool for analyzing, comparing and ranking protein–protein and protein–nucleic acid docking models, based on the conservation of inter-residue contacts and its visualization in 2D and 3D interactive contact maps.

Availability and implementation: CONSRANK is accessible as a public web tool at https://www.molnac.unisa.it/BioTools/consrank/.

Contact:  romina.oliva@uniparthenope.it
Mate choice in temperate and tropical spiny lobsters with contrasting reproductive systems
Authors: Butler Mark , Bertelsen Rodney , MacDiarmid Alison
Published: December 2014

Sperm limitation of reproductive success is common in decapod crustaceans, favouring mating systems in which females compete for large males of high reproductive value. We investigated these phenomena in two species of spiny lobsters—one temperate, one tropical—with contrasting reproductive systems: the Southern Rock Lobster (Jasus edwardsii) and the Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus). We hypothesized that female mate selection should be more pronounced in the temperate J. edwardsii than in the tropical P. argus because J. edwardsii matures later, has a shorter mating season, and produces just one clutch of eggs per year that benefit from significant maternal investment of resources. As hypothesized, experiments conducted in large mesocosms revealed that female J. edwardsii cohabited with large males more often than expected by chance during their receptive period, but not at other times. Large male J. edwardsii cohabited in dens with the largest unmated females, whereas small males exhibited no mate size preference. In contrast, the proportion of female and male P. argus that co-occupied dens with the opposite sex was no more than expected by chance. Cohabitation patterns in the wild supported these laboratory findings for both species. Our results demonstrate the tight connection between contrasting reproductive strategies and the specificity of mate choice in spiny lobsters that are consistent with predictions based on environmental seasonality in temperate vs. tropical ecosystems.
N-cadherin antagonists as oncology therapeutics
Authors: Blaschuk Orest W.
Published: December 2014

The cell adhesion molecule (CAM), N-cadherin, has emerged as an important oncology therapeutic target. N-cadherin is a transmembrane glycoprotein mediating the formation and structural integrity of blood vessels. Its expression has also been documented in numerous types of poorly differentiated tumours. This CAM is involved in regulating the proliferation, survival, invasiveness and metastasis of cancer cells. Disruption of N-cadherin homophilic intercellular interactions using peptide or small molecule antagonists is a promising novel strategy for anti-cancer therapies. This review discusses: the discovery of N-cadherin, the mechanism by which N-cadherin promotes cell adhesion, the role of N-cadherin in blood vessel formation and maintenance, participation of N-cadherin in cancer progression, the different types of N-cadherin antagonists and the use of N-cadherin antagonists as anti-cancer drugs.
Corruption, Efficiency Wage and Union Leadership
Authors: Chaudhuri Sarbajit , Dastidar Krishnendu Ghosh
Published: December 2014

This paper develops a model of determination of the unionized wage in the presence of both collective bargaining and an efficiency wage. The efficiency of each worker is positively related to both the wage and the unemployment rate in the economy. The unionized wage is greater than the efficiency wage and the firm finds it profitable to keep the unionized wage as close as possible to the efficiency wage. The union leader who is entrusted with the task of determining the unionized wage charges a bribe from the firm to keep the wage close to this level. The corrupt trade union leader and the management of the firm play a two‐stage Nash bargaining game from where the equilibrium unionized wage and the bribe are determined. The analysis leads to some interesting results which are important for anticorruption policy formulation.
The contribution of clinical placement to nutrition and dietetics competency development: A student‐centred approach
Authors: Maher Judith , Pelly Fiona , Swanepoel Elizabeth , Sutakowsky Lydia , Hughes Roger
Published: December 2014

Aim

The aim of the present study was to explore the student perception of competency development in nutrition and dietetics and the perceived impact of pre‐placement preparation, the clinical placement learning environment, learning exposures and supervision on this.

Methods

A qualitative investigation using semistructured interviews with 26 graduate students who had recently completed their final clinical placement, recruited purposively from three Australian universities was employed. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts and triangular analysis of data was undertaken by the research team, with a mix of descriptive and interpretive analysis.

Results

Students across all three universities generally described the placement experience as intense, personally challenging and a steep learning curve. Students felt they had adequate theoretical knowledge prior to placement but were less prepared for the practical application of their skills in a clinical setting. The learning environment varied across placement sites, with physical, organisation and social environmental factors all contributing to the students reported pathway to confidence and competence in practice. The style of supervision and supervisory practices varied considerably and emerged as a significant factor impacting on competency development.

Conclusions

Nutrition and dietetic students appear to have a hierarchy of psychosocial and educational needs that need to be met in the placement environment in order to achieve competency. The present study provides a framework for enhancing the student experience and the effectiveness of clinical placements as a component of dietetic workforce preparation.
Evaluation of revised polymerase chain reaction primers for more inclusive quantification of ammonia‐oxidizing archaea and bacteria
Authors: Meinhardt Kelley A. , Bertagnolli Anthony , Pannu Manmeet W. , Strand Stuart E. , Brown Sally L. , Stahl David A.
Published: December 2014

Ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB) fill key roles in the nitrogen cycle. Thus, well‐vetted methods for characterizing their distribution are essential for framing studies of their significance in natural and managed systems. Quantification of the gene coding for one subunit of the ammonia monooxygenase (amoA) by polymerase chain reaction is frequently employed to enumerate the two groups. However, variable amplification of sequence variants comprising this conserved genetic marker for ammonia oxidizers potentially compromises within‐ and between‐system comparisons. We compared the performance of newly designed non‐degenerate quantitative polymerase chain reaction primer sets to existing primer sets commonly used to quantify the amoA of AOA and AOB using a collection of plasmids and soil DNA samples. The new AOA primer set provided improved quantification of model mixtures of different amoA sequence variants and increased detection of amoA in DNA recovered from soils. Although both primer sets for the AOB provided similar results for many comparisons, the new primers demonstrated increased detection in environmental application. Thus, the new primer sets should provide a useful complement to primers now commonly used to characterize the environmental distribution of AOA and AOB.
Towards a politics of whimsy: yarn bombing the city
Authors: Mann Joanna
Published: December 2014

Whimsy describes the capricious, playful and fanciful, and designates something irrational or without an immediately obvious reason to exist. I argue that this frivolity and illogicality are precisely what can make whimsy a significant, if fleeting, ground for micro‐political change. To demonstrate this claim I use the example of yarn bombing – a contemporary form of street art in which knitted and crocheted items are attached to parts of the urban landscape. Yarn bombing, I argue, does more than feminise the city, for the whimsy with which it is imbued has the capacity to increase our attentiveness to habitual worlds in a series of micro‐political gestures. Yet it is impossible to fully recognise and harness a politics of whimsy, for doing so defies its character as frivolous and without motive, and supersedes these traits with intentionality and utility. As a result, a politics born of whimsy is always‐already a paradoxical politics. The broader question thus becomes one of how to dwell in whimsy's ungraspable moment in order that we might remain open to new political and ethical potentialities. To explore these issues, this paper draws on performative ethnographic fieldwork, wherein 30 yarn bombs were made and displayed in the city of Bristol during 2011.
Maxillary Sinus Augmentation with a New Xenograft: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Calasans‐Maia Mônica Diuana , Mourão Carlos Fernando de A. B. , Alves Adriana Terezinha Neves Novellino , Sartoretto Suelen Cristina , de Uzeda Marcelo José P. G. , Granjeiro José Mauro
Published: December 2014

Background

Insufficient residual alveolar bone height is a common deterrent in the placement of dental implants in the posterior maxilla. The use of autografts, xenografts, allografts and alloplasts or a combination between them has been demonstrated to be effective for increasing bone height and bone volume in the deficient posterior maxilla.

Purpose

The aim of this clinical trial is to comparatively determine the density of newly formed in sinus floor augmentation bone after a 24‐week healing period treatment with a new bovine xenograft.

Materials and Methods

The sinus floor was grafted with Bio‐Oss® (n = 10) and Osseous® (n = 10). Histological sections were examined with a focus on the presence of connective tissue (CT) and newly formed bone (NFB). The sections were histomorphometrically evaluated and the definitive crown was inserted after 3 months.

Results

After 6 months, the mean value of new bone formation was 24.60 (±2.503), the CT was 42.60 (±4.006) and the remaining biomaterial was 25.40 (±2.547) in Bio‐Oss group. In Osseous group, the mean value of new bone formation was 24.90 (±3.542), the CT was 45.70 (±7.040) and the remaining biomaterial was 22.90 (±3.247).

Conclusions

Both biomaterials afforded a favorable implant position and the prosthetic rehabilitation.
Cardiac function assessed by exercise echocardiography on the first morning after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Dedichen Hans Henrik , Kirkeby‐Garstad Idar , Aadahl Petter , Hisdal Jonny , Amundsen Brage H.
Published: December 2014

Cardiac surgery patients are urged to resume light physical activity on the first postoperative day, even if cardiac function may not have recovered fully after the operation. To elucidate the postoperative recovery process, we examined cardiac surgery patients with exercise echocardiography before and on the first day after the operation. Patients undergoing on‐pump coronary artery bypass grafting were examined with echocardiography during semirecumbent cycle exercise. Patients exercised for five minutes at 10 W intensity and five minutes at 30 W intensity in bed with the upper body supported to approximately 30°. Fourteen patients were studied. Mitral annulus excursion and pulsed wave Doppler from the left ventricular outflow tract indicated postoperatively reduced cardiac stroke volume. Early diastolic tissue velocities of the mitral annulus were reduced, and early trans‐mitral flow velocity was increased. The ratio between early mitral flow velocity and early diastolic mitral tissue velocity was increased postoperatively, indicating impaired left ventricular relaxation and increased left atrial pressure. Postoperative systolic mitral annulus tissue velocities were similar to preoperative velocities, indicating maintained systolic function. Postoperative exercise was associated with improvements in myocardial function indices and cardiac stroke volume similar to preoperative improvements. There were no signs of further deterioration in myocardial function during 30 W exercise. In summary, reduced left ventricular diastolic function after surgery resulted in reduced cardiac stroke volume, increased left atrial pressure and a higher rate of perceived exertion on the first postoperative day.
Extreme hydrological events and the ecological restoration of flowing waters
Authors: Reich P. , Lake P. S.
Published: December 2014

Extreme hydrological events (floods, droughts) in flowing waters can alter habitat availability and structure and produce significant shifts in biodiversity, species assemblages and ecosystem processes.

Extreme floods and droughts occur over large spatial extents and can greatly alter links between streams and their catchments. The nature and strengths of these links differ between degraded and intact streams and their catchments, strongly influencing the responses to and recovery from extreme events. It is essential that these catchment–stream linkages be identified and considered when planning stream restoration.

Despite the scarcity of comprehensive, long‐term monitoring of most stream restoration projects, our understanding of the influence of extreme events on running waters suggests both positive and negative impacts on restoration efforts. Extreme hydrological events can impair stream restoration efforts giving rise to delays or complete failures in achieving restoration objectives. Alternatively, extreme floods may facilitate progress towards restoration goals by engendering key ecological processes.

Understanding the impacts and the temporal–spatial scales over which extreme events alter the ecological structure and function of streams (in both natural and damaged systems), as well as their underlying mechanisms, is a challenge for stream restorers that will only progress with the accumulation of long‐term data. Restorers should recognise and plan for hydrological extreme events and their interactions with other disturbances (e.g. fire, urban development). Increasing connectivity of restoration efforts along with their spatial extent can lessen the negative effects of extreme hydrological events on stream restoration.

Successful ecological stream restoration requires long time spans and thus with a changing climate the prediction of more frequent and intense extreme events only strengthens the need to incorporate their likelihood into restoration planning and implementation.
Ecological effects of extreme climatic events on riverine ecosystems: insights from Australia
Authors: Leigh Catherine , Bush Alex , Harrison Evan T. , Ho Susie S. , Luke Laurisse , Rolls Robert J. , Ledger Mark E.
Published: December 2014

Climate extremes and their physical impacts – including droughts, fires, floods, heat waves, storm surges and tropical cyclones – are important structuring forces in riverine ecosystems. Climate change is expected to increase the future occurrence of extremes, with potentially devastating effects on rivers and streams. We synthesise knowledge of extremes and their impacts on riverine ecosystems in Australia, a country for which projected changes in event characteristics reflect global trends.

Hydrologic extremes play a major structuring role in river ecology across Australia. Droughts alter water quality and reduce habitat availability, driving organisms to refugia. Extreme floods increase hydrological connectivity and trigger booms in productivity, but can also alter channel morphology and cause disturbances such as hypoxic blackwater events.

Tropical cyclones and post‐cyclonic floods damage riparian vegetation, erode stream banks and alter water quality. Cyclone‐induced delivery of large woody debris provides important instream habitat, although the wider ecological consequences of tropical cyclones are uncertain.

Wildfires destroy catchment vegetation and expose soils, increasing inputs of fine sediment and nutrients to streams, particularly when followed by heavy rains.

Research on the impacts of heat waves and storm surges is scarce, but data on temperature and salinity tolerances, respectively, may provide some insight into ecological responses.

We identify research gaps and hypotheses to guide future research on the ecology of extreme climate events in Australia and beyond. A range of phenomenological, experimental and modelling approaches is needed to develop a mechanistic understanding of the ecological impact of extreme events and inform prediction of responses to future change.
Effect of CaF2 Addition on the Crystallization and Phase Formation in Li2O–ZnO–Al2O3–SiO2 Glass–Ceramic
Authors: Zhang Yuhua , Qu Gao , Lei Yajun , Liu Weizhen , Cui Lei , Lu Anxian
Published: December 2014

Four sets of Li2O–ZnO–Al2O3–SiO2 (LZAS) glass–ceramics containing different content of fluorine were fabricated. With CaF2 content increasing, the glass transition temperature (Tg) and crystallization temperature (Tc1, or Tc2) decreased as differential scanning calorimetry results showed; this phenomenon could be explained based on the Fourier‐transformed infrared spectra analysis. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results indicated that CaF2 did influence the crystallization temperatures of some crystal phase in the LZAS glass–ceramics, the transformations from glass to β‐quartzss solid solution and β‐quartzss to β‐spodumene occurred at lower temperatures, and the decrease could reach to 80°C. According to the scanning electron microscope analysis, the addition of F− ions can contribute to a microstructure with higher crystallinity and finer grain size. The density and average thermal coefficients of the studied glass–ceramics were influenced by the content of F− ions. All the results showed that CaF2 did promote initial crystallization of LZAS glass and can be used as an effective nucleating agent in the LZAS system.
Effect of age and residential status on the predictive performance of CURB‐65 score
Authors: Ma H. M. , Ip M. , Woo J.
Published: December 2014

Background

The CURB‐65 score was designed to predict 30‐day mortality and decide the site of care of pneumonia. It is uncertain how age and residential status affect the accuracy of CURB‐65 score in older patients.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of age and residential status on the performance of CURB‐65 score in predicting 30‐day all‐cause mortality of pneumonia in older patients.

Methods

We used combined data from two prospective observational cohorts of adult patients with pneumonia. Older patients aged ≥ 65 years were analysed.

Results

Of 1644 patients, 1200 were living in the community and 464 residing in nursing homes. The 30‐day mortality rates of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) and nursing home‐acquired pneumonia (NHAP) were 10.7% and 14.2% respectively. In each age group of CAP and NHAP, mortality increased with pneumonia severity. Mortality decreased with advancing age in NHAP, and the reverse was true for CAP. In NHAP but not CAP, the proportion of highly severe pneumonia (CURB‐65 score ≥ 3) was lower in older patients. The overall predictive performance of CURB‐65 score was comparable in CAP and NHAP. The accuracy deteriorated with advancing age in NHAP but not CAP. Using the cut‐off score of ≥3 (highly severe pneumonia), the CURB‐65 score achieved high negative predictive values (>90%) in CAP and NHAP.

Conclusions

Advancing age adversely affected the predictive performance of CURB‐65 score in NHAP but not CAP. The score was not helpful in guiding the site of care at admission in older patients with pneumonia.
High frequency of enterovirus D68 in children hospitalised with respiratory illness in Norway, autumn 2014
Authors: Bragstad Karoline , Jakobsen Kirsti , Rojahn Astrid E. , Skram Marius K. , Vainio Kirsti , Holberg‐Petersen Mona , Hungnes Olav , Dudman Susanne G. , Kran Anne‐Marte B.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

An unexpectedly high proportion of children were admitted for severe respiratory infections at the Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Norway, during September and October, 2014. In light of the ongoing outbreak of enterovirus‐D68 (EV‐D68) in North America a real‐time RT‐PCR for screening of enterovirus and enterovirus D68 was established.

Design

We developed a duplex real‐time RT‐PCR for rapid screening of enterovirus D68. The method target the 5′ non‐translated region (NTR) of the HEV genome at a location generally used for enterovirus detection.

Sample

Nasopharyngeal samples (n = 354), from children <15 years of age, received for respiratory virus analysis in OUH during September 1st and October 31nd, 2014, were tested for enterovirus and screened for enterovirus D68.

Main outcome measures and results

The duplex real‐time RT‐PCR method was an efficient tool for rapid screening for EV‐D68 in respiratory specimens. Enterovirus was detected in 66 (22%) of 303 pediatric nasopharyngeal samples collected from children hospitalised with acute respiratory infection within the two‐month period. Out of these, 33 (50%) were EV‐D68. EV‐D68 was associated with acute flaccid paralysis in one child.

Conclusions

An unexpectedly high proportion of children admitted for severe respiratory infections at the Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Norway, were diagnosed with EV‐ D68 during September 1st and October 31nd, 2014. These results emphasise that greater vigilance is required throughout Europe as enteroviruses are cause of severe respiratory disease.
Theory and (in) Practice: The Problem of Integration in Art and Design Education
Authors: Rintoul Jenny
Published: December 2014

This paper examines the relationship between art ‘theory’ and art ‘practice’ in British art education at post‐compulsory level, with a focus on the ways in which theory is framed and delivered and what this means for its integration. Drawing upon constructions of knowledge and approaches to integration as a technique and integration as a philosophy, suggestions are made on ways of organising theory in relation to studio practice. Theory is discussed here in terms of its common label in British Further and Higher Education: Critical and Contextual Studies (CCS), and particular reference is made to data drawn from research into practices of CCS on the BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design in 2008–10. Through the data, three dominant models of CCS are proposed and examined in order to identify the problem of integration and to make suggestions on what it means to integrate CCS in an art and design course.
Concept clarification of grief in mothers of children with an addiction
Authors: Zucker Donna M. , Dion Kimberly , McKeever Roxanna P.
Published: December 2014

Aim

To report an analysis of the concept of grief in mothers of children with an addiction.

Background

The concept of grief in this context is poorly understood and often synonymously used with concepts depression, loss and chronic sorrow. In the US, the core concept grief has been recently revised by both NANDA and the DSM‐V in efforts to better understand and characterize the concept. The plethora of literature on grief worldwide often characterizes grief as a response to a death.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data sources

Search terms ‘parental grief’ and ‘substance abuse’ yielded 30 articles. A second review using terms ‘grief’ and ‘substance abuse’ yielded 323 articles, in PsychInfo, CINAHL, PubMed databases from 1980–2013. Limits for articles in English and for the terms ‘death’ and ‘child’ yielded 13 usable articles.

Methods

The hybrid model of concept analysis, using a theoretical phase, an empirical phase and a final phase when a clarified definition of grief emerged.

Results

Definitions in the literature and defining characteristics of grief outline bio‐psycho‐social aspects of the concept. For one mother grief was accompanied by recurring feelings of sadness across time, while for the other mother grief was seen as coping, after having passed through a variety of stages of grief. For both, grief was seen to fall on a continuum.

Conclusions

Grief is a universal concept and has a trajectory. Case study data have been essential in clarifying understandings of grief as experienced by mothers of addicted children and will provide direction for meaningful and tailored interventions.
bFGF attenuates endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial injury on myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion via activation of PI3K/Akt/ERK1/2 pathway
Authors: Wang Zhouguang , Wang Yue , Ye Junming , Lu Xianghong , Cheng Yi , Xiang Lijun , Chen Li , Feng Wenke , Shi Hongxue , Yu Xichong , Lin Li , Zhang Hongyu , Xiao Jian , Li Xiaokun
Published: December 2014

Extensive research focused on finding effective strategies to prevent or improve recovery from myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has been shown to have therapeutic potential in some heart disorders, including ischaemic injury. In this study, we demonstrate that bFGF administration can inhibit the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and mitochondrial dysfunction induced in the heart in a mouse model of I/R injury. In vitro, bFGF exerts a protective effect by inhibiting the ER stress response and mitochondrial dysfunction proteins that are induced by tert‐Butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) treatment. Both of these in vivo and in vitro effects are related to the activation of two downstream signalling pathways, PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2. Inhibition of these PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 pathways by specific inhibitors, LY294002 and PD98059, partially reduces the protective effect of bFGF. Taken together, our results indicate that the cardioprotective role of bFGF involves the suppression of ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in ischaemic oxidative damage models and oxidative stress‐induced H9C2 cell injury; furthermore, these effects underlie the activation of the PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signalling pathways.
A multicenter prospective study on the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori‐negative and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs‐negative idiopathic peptic ulcers in Japan
Authors: Kanno Takeshi , Iijima Katsunori , Abe Yasuhiko , Yagi Makoto , Asonuma Sho , Ohyauchi Motoki , Ito Hirotaka , Koike Tomoyuki , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori‐negative and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐negative peptic ulcers, commonly known as idiopathic peptic ulcers (IPUs), has been reported to be very low (0.9–2.6%) in Japan based on data from the 1990s. However, recent trends have yet to be been reported. Herein, we present a multicenter prospective analysis between 2012 and 2013 investigating current trends in the prevalence and characteristics of IPUs in Japan.

Methods

Clinical data of all peptic ulcer subjects detected via endoscopy at four participating hospitals were prospectively collected between April 2012 and March 2013. Enrolled subjects were classified according to H. pylori infection status and intake of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors for IPUs.

Results

Of 382 enrolled patients with peptic ulcers, 46 (12%) were judged to have IPUs. Compared with those with simple H. pylori‐positive ulcers, patients with IPUs were significantly older (P < 0.02) and more often had underlying comorbidities such as hypertension (P < 0.02) and hyperlipidemia (P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that the presence of multiple underlying diseases was the only significant risk factor for IPUs, with an odds ratio of 3.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.3–11.1).

Conclusions

This study revealed that the prevalence of IPUs in patients with peptic ulcers in Japan is 12%, much higher than previously reported. Presence of multiple underlying comorbid diseases, rather than aging itself, is an important risk factor for IPUs.
Associations Between Fibrin D‐Dimer, Markers of Inflammation, Incident Self‐Reported Mobility Limitation, and All‐Cause Mortality in Older Men
Authors: Wannamethee S. Goya , Whincup Peter H. , Lennon Lucy , Papacosta Olia , Lowe Gordon D.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To examine the independent relationships between fibrin D‐dimer, interleukin 6 (IL‐6), C‐reactive protein (CRP), and fibrinogen and incident mobility limitation and mortality.

Design

Prospective.

Setting

General practice in 24 British towns.

Participants

Men aged 60 to 79 without prevalent heart failure followed up for an average of 11.5 years (N = 3,925).

Measurements

All‐cause mortality (n = 1,286) and self‐reported mobility disability obtained at examination in 1998 to 2000 and in a postal questionnaire 3 to 5 years later in 2003.

Results

High D‐dimer (top vs lowest tertile: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.46, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–2.05) and IL‐6 (aOR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.01–2.02) levels (but not CRP or fibrinogen) were associated with greater incident mobility limitation after adjustment for confounders and prevalent disease status. IL‐6, CRP, fibrinogen, and D‐dimer were significantly associated with total mortality after adjustment for confounders. Only D‐dimer and IL‐6 predicted total mortality independent of each other and the other biomarkers. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) was 1.16 (95% CI = 1.10–1.22) for a standard deviation increase in log D‐dimer and 1.10 (95% CI = 1.04–1.18) for a standard deviation increase in log IL‐6. D‐dimer was independently related to vascular and nonvascular mortality, and IL‐6 was independently related to vascular mortality. Risks of mobility limitation and mortality were greatest in those with a combination of high D‐dimer and IL‐6 levels.

Conclusion

D‐dimer and IL‐6 are associated with risk of mobility limitation and mortality in older men without heart failure. The findings suggest that coagulation leads to functional decline and mortality s that inflammation does not explain.