bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serendipitous CO‐ and RhI‐Induced ­Coupling of Bidentate Phosphaalkenes with Expulsion of Bis(trimethylsilyl)ketene Leading to RhIII‐Coordinated Dianionic Tetradentate Ligands
Authors: Lungu Daniela , Bîrzoi Roxana M. , Goers Christine , Bartsch Rainer , du Mont Wolf‐W. , Daniliuc Constantin , Jones Peter G.
Published: October 2015

In the RhCl chelate complexes of C‐bis(trimethylsilyl)‐P‐alkyl(diphenylphosphanyl)aminophosphaalkenes 1 [(Me3Si)2C=PN(R)PPh2; 1a: R = 1‐Ada; 1b: R = tBu], the P=C double bonds are preferentially η2‐(P,C)‐coordinated to RhI, as shown by the structure determination of trans‐[RhCl{(Me3Si)2C=PN(R)PPh2}]2 (5a) and by the comparison of the 31P NMR spectra of cis‐ and trans‐[RhCl{(Me3Si)2C=PN(R)PPh2}]2 (5a,b), [RhCl(PPh3){(Me3Si)2C=PN(R)PPh2}] (6a,b), [RhCl(CO){(Me3Si)2C=PN(R)PPh2}] (7a,b) and [(cod)Rh(μ‐Cl)2Rh{(Me3Si)2C=PN(R)PPh2}] (8a,b). With excess of [RhCl(cod)]2, the ligand (Me3Si)2C=PN(CH2Ph)PPh2 (1c) forms solid trinuclear complex 10 containing two Rh(Cl)cod moieties attached to the central chelate unit [Rh(Cl)(1c)]: one Rh atom is attached by (terminal) P→Rh(Cl)cod coordination and the other one by bridging Rh(μ‐Cl)2Rhcod. The reactions of the complex [RhCl(CO)(PPh3)2] with ligands 1a or 1b unexpectedly led, with elimination of bis(trimethylsilyl)ketene, to racemic RhIII–chloro complexes [RhCl({Ph2PN(R)P}2C(SiMe3)2)] (11a,b) containing the dianionic tetradentate chelating “bis‐PNP” ligands (Me3Si)2C{P(–)N(R)PPh2}2 (12a,b) η4‐coordinated to RhIII (CN 5). The CO‐induced formation of RhIII complexes 11a and 11b also occurred when 7a and 7b were treated with another equivalent of ligand 1a or 1b, when [RhCl(CO)2]2 was mixed with more than 2 equiv. of 1a or 1b, and even bubbling gaseous CO into a solution containing 6a provided 11a and bis(trimethylsilyl)ketene.
The First Coordination Polymers Based on 1,3‐Diphosphaferrocenes and 1,1′,2,3′,4‐Pentaphosphaferrocenes
Authors: Heindl Claudia , Reisinger Sabine , Schwarzmaier Christoph , Rummel Lena , Virovets Alexander V. , Peresypkina Eugenia V. , Scheer Manfred
Published: October 2015

Phosphaferrocenes in combination with coinage metal salts proved to be excellent building blocks in supramolecular chemistry for the buildup of oligomeric and polymeric assemblies. The synthesis of a series of novel phosphaferrocenes containing the 1,3‐P2C3iPr3 and/or the 1,2,4‐P3C2iPr2 ligand is described herein. The self‐assembly processes of the 1,3‐diphospha‐, 1,2,4‐triphospha‐, and 1,1′,2,3′,4‐pentaphosphaferrocenes with CuI halides led to the formation of 1D or 2D polymers. With [Cp*Fe(η5‐P2C3iPr3)] (Cp* = η5‐C5Me5), infinite chains are formed, whereas with [(η5‐P3C2iPr2)Fe(η5‐P2C3iPr3)] 1D ladderlike structures are obtained. These are the first polymers containing such a di‐ and pentaphosphaferrocene, respectively. On the other hand, the use of [Cp*Fe(η5‐P3C2iPr2)] leads to the construction of 2D networks with intact sandwich complexes, which is uncommon for this class of complexes.
Fast quantification of fatty acid profile of intact fish by intermolecular double‐quantum coherence 1H‐NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Cai Honghao , Lin Liangjie , Ding Shangwu , Cui Xiaohong , Chen Zhong
Published: October 2015

Intermolecular double quantum coherence (iDQC) 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR), which serves as a complementary method in the analyses of fatty acids, is used to investigate the intact salmon muscle and the whole zebra fish. The spectra of fatty acids of the intact salmon muscle, whose resonances are overlapped with metabolites peaks in the conventional NMR spectra, can be resolved in the presence of severe intrinsic structural inhomogeneity without sample pretreatments and special NMR accessories, such as those for high‐speed sample spinning. For improving the practicability of the iDQC method, a localized module is combined with the iDQC method so that the fatty acids of the whole zebra fish can be detected non‐invasively. All the iDQC results are verified by the extraction NMR spectra. In addition, fatty acid composition of the salmon muscle is quantitatively analyzed based on the iDQC and extraction NMR spectra. The calculated results from these two methods are in good agreement. Therefore, the iDQC method may serve as a feasible one‐step and fast screening method for fish quality analyses and lipid inspections of other biological tissues.

Practical applications: The intermolecular doublequantum coherence (iDQC) can be an appropriate lipid detecting method of tissues when the samples are not suitable for chemical extraction. The iDQC with a localized module may be more practical than magic angle spinning for applications in in vivo and in situ NMR experiments, in which samples are not allowed to spin.

Fatty acids of the whole zebra fish can be identified by iDQC method when PRESS with water suppression fails to produce high‐resolution spectrum.
Analysis of red inks by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography with laser‐induced fluorescence detection
Authors: Król Małgorzata , Gondko Klaudia , Kula Agnieszka , Kościelniak Paweł
Published: October 2015

A combination of MEKC with a—highly sensitive but not commonly used—LIF detector was tested regarding the possibility of differentiation of red inks. The separation process was conducted in a fused silica capillary (id 50 μm, 60/50 cm total/effective length) in BGE consisting of 40 mM sodium borate, 20 mM SDS and 10% v/v ACN with 30 kV applied. The optimized temperature of storage and capillary was 10 and 25°C, respectively. The samples were prepared using 20 dots (ø 0.5 mm), extracted in 35 μL BGE and diluted with 30 μL of water. The proposed method showed excellent repeatability and reproducibility (RSD (tm) < 0.8 and < 2.5%, respectively). It was applied to group identification and differentiation of different brands, models, and batches of red printing, stamp, and pen inks. It was demonstrated that differentiation can be performed effectively on the basis of migration times and ratios of peak areas. The high efficiency of the developed method was indicated by discriminating power ranging from 87.3 to 98.8%, for stamp and pen inks, respectively. The results showed that the proposed procedure can be valuable for an objective examination of the red parts of questioned documents.
Capacity Fade Analysis of the Lithium‐Ion Power Battery Cycling Process Based on an Electrochemical‐Thermal Coupling Model
Authors: Tang Yiwei , Jia Ming , Ai Lihua , Yin Baohua , Cheng Yun , Liu Yexiang
Published: October 2015

An electrochemical‐thermal model is developed to simulate the capacity fade of a lithium‐ion battery. Capacity fade is based on the loss of active lithium ions and the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) increase in an anode film caused by solvent reduction at the anode–electrolyte interface. This model incorporates a solvent reduction reaction at the anode. The reliability of the model is verified in terms of electrochemical properties, thermal properties, and capacity fade. Quantitative analysis is conducted to study the evolution of the distribution of the side‐reaction rate in the electrode thickness direction with the charging time. Moreover, the effect of temperature change on the current density of side‐reactions is also considered. The results indicate that during high‐rate charge and discharge cycles, the temperature of a lithium‐ion power battery increases significantly, and the temperature effect improves the accuracy of the model prediction.
Metal contaminant accumulation in the hive: Consequences for whole-colony health and brood production in the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.)
Authors: Hladun Kristen R. , Di Ning , Liu Tong-Xian , Trumble John T.
Published: October 2015

Metal pollution has been increasing rapidly over the past century, and at the same time, the human population has continued to rise and produce contaminants that may negatively impact pollinators. Honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) forage over large areas and can collect contaminants from the environment. The primary objective of the present study was to determine whether the metal contaminants cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and selenium (Se) can have a detrimental effect on whole-colony health in the managed pollinator A. mellifera. The authors isolated small nucleus colonies under large cages and fed them an exclusive diet of sugar syrup and pollen patty spiked with Cd, Cu, Pb, and Se or a control (no additional metal). Treatment levels were based on concentrations in honey and pollen from contaminated hives around the world. They measured whole-colony health including wax, honey, and brood production; colony weight; brood survival; and metal accumulation in various life stages. Colonies treated with Cd or Cu contained more dead pupae within capped cells compared with control, and Se-treated colonies had lower total worker weights compared to control. Lead had a minimal effect on colony performance, although many members of the hive accumulated significant quantities of the metal. By examining the honey bee as a social organism through whole-colony assessments of toxicity, the authors found that the distribution of toxicants throughout the colony varied from metal to metal, some caste members were more susceptible to certain metals, and the colony's ability to grow over time may have been reduced in the presence of Se. Apiaries residing near metal-contaminated areas may be at risk and can suffer changes in colony dynamics and survival. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:322–329. © 2015 SETAC
Comparison of hearing outcomes after treatment for early‐stage external auditory canal cancer
Authors: Morita Shinya , Nakamaru Yuji , Homma Akihiro , Sakashita Tomohiro , Hatakeyama Hiromitsu , Masuya Masayori , Fukuda Satoshi
Published: October 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the hearing outcomes after surgery with reconstruction of the external auditory canal in combination with tympanoplasty, radiotherapy (RT) alone, and surgery followed by postoperative RT for T1 to 2N0M0 external auditory canal cancer.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, single‐institution review of consecutive patients with early‐stage external auditory canal cancer treated with surgery and/or RT between April 1997 and August 2013. Audiological data included the pretreatment hearing thresholds and those obtained at 12 months after the completion of therapy.

Results

When we compared the functional gains for air‐conduction pure‐tone average thresholds and mean air‐bone gaps, those in the surgery group (n = 10) were significantly higher than those in the RT (n = 13) and surgery + RT (n = 5) groups.

Conclusion

Adequate techniques for reconstruction of the external auditory canal in combination with tympanoplasty after complete surgical resection is useful for hearing preservation in addition to good survival outcomes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1110–E1116, 2016
The influence of acceptance goals on self‐presentational efforts
Authors: Tyler James M. , McIntyre Miranda M.
Published: October 2015

The current work examined whether self‐presentational efforts are influenced differently when people hold a goal to establish, maintain or repair an interpersonal connection. Results supported the counterintuitive prediction that participants with a repair goal would convey a less favourably oriented persona (e.g. less friendly, less similar and less genuine) compared to those with an establish or maintain goal. The efforts of repair goal participants were also perceived as less effective. The analysis also showed that certain self‐presentation dimensions (i.e. friendliness, genuineness and similarity) mediated the relationship between acceptance goals and perceived effectiveness. The findings extend and contribute to the self‐presentation and belongingness literatures.
Biomedical applications of collagens
Authors: Ramshaw John A. M.
Published: October 2015

Collagen‐based biomedical materials have developed into important, clinically effective materials used in a range of devices that have gained wide acceptance. These devices come with collagen in various formats, including those based on stabilized natural tissues, those that are based on extracted and purified collagens, and designed composite, biosynthetic materials. Further knowledge on the structure and function of collagens has led to on‐going developments and improvements. Among these developments has been the production of recombinant collagen materials that are well defined and are disease free. Most recently, a group of bacterial, non‐animal collagens has emerged that may provide an excellent, novel source of collagen for use in biomaterials and other applications. These newer collagens are discussed in detail. They can be modified to direct their function, and they can be fabricated into various formats, including films and sponges, while solutions can also be adapted for use in surface coating technologies. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 665–675, 2016.
The Natural History of Flare-Ups in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP): A Comprehensive Global Assessment
Authors: Pignolo Robert J , Bedford-Gay Christopher , Liljesthröm Moira , Durbin-Johnson Blythe P , Shore Eileen M , Rocke David M , Kaplan Frederick S
Published: October 2015

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) leads to disabling heterotopic ossification (HO) from episodic flare-ups. However, the natural history of FOP flare-ups is poorly understood. A 78-question survey on FOP flare-ups, translated into 15 languages, was sent to 685 classically-affected patients in 45 countries (six continents). Five hundred patients or knowledgeable informants responded (73%; 44% males, 56% females; ages: 1 to 71 years; median: 23 years). The most common presenting symptoms of flare-ups were swelling (93%), pain (86%), or decreased mobility (79%). Seventy-one percent experienced a flare-up within the preceding 12 months (52% spontaneous; 48% trauma-related). Twenty-five percent of those who had received an intramuscular injection reported an immediate flare-up at the injection site, 84% of whom developed HO. Axial flare-ups most frequently involved the back (41.6%), neck (26.4%), or jaw (19.4%). Flare-ups occurred more frequently in the upper limbs before 8 years of age, but more frequently in the lower limbs thereafter. Appendicular flare-ups occurred more frequently at proximal than at distal sites without preferential sidedness. Seventy percent of patients reported functional loss from a flare-up. Thirty-two percent reported complete resolution of at least one flare-up and 12% without any functional loss (mostly in the head or back). The most disabling flare-ups occurred at the shoulders or hips. Surprisingly, 47% reported progression of FOP without obvious flare-ups. Worldwide, 198 treatments were reported; anti-inflammatory agents were most common. Seventy-five percent used short-term glucocorticoids as a treatment for flare-ups at appendicular sites. Fifty-five percent reported that glucocorticoids improved symptoms occasionally whereas 31% reported that they always did. Only 12% reported complete resolution of a flare-up with glucocorticoids. Forty-three percent reported rebound symptoms within 1 to 7 days after completing a course of glucocorticoids. This study is the first comprehensive global assessment of FOP flare-ups and establishes a critical foundation for the design and evaluation of future clinical trials. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Comparative Analysis of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived From Bone Marrow, Placenta, and Adipose Tissue as Sources of Cell Therapy
Authors: Jeon Young‐Joo , Kim Jumi , Cho Jin Hyoung , Chung Hyung‐Min , Chae Jung‐Il
Published: October 2015

Various source‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) with multipotent capabilities were considered for cell therapeutics of incurable diseases. The applicability of MSCs depends on the cellular source and on their different in vivo functions, despite having similar phenotypic and cytological characteristics. We characterized MSCs from different sources, including human bone marrow (BM), placenta (PL), and adipose tissue (AT), in terms of the phenotype, surface antigen expression, differentiation ability, proteome reference map, and blood flow recovery in a hindlimb ischemic disease model. The MSCs exhibit different differentiation potentials depending on the cellular source despite having similar phenotypic and surface antigen expression. We identified approximately 90 differentially regulated proteins. Most up‐ or down‐regulated proteins show cytoskeletal or oxidative stress, peroxiredoxin, and apoptosis roles according to their functional involvement. In addition, the PL‐MSCs retained a higher therapeutic efficacy than the BM‐ and AT‐MSCs in the hindlimb ischemic disease model. In summary, we examined differentially expressed key regulatory factors for MSCs that were obtained from several cellular sources and demonstrated their differentially expressed proteome profiles. Our results indicate that primitive PL‐MSCs have biological advantages relative to those from other sources, making PL‐MSCs a useful model for clinical applications of cell therapy. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1112–1125, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incretinomimetic and Insulinomimetic Effect of (2E)‐N′‐(1′‐Naphthyl)‐3,4,5‐Trimethoxybenzohydrazide for Glycemic Homeostasis
Authors: Silva Frederico Marisa Jádna , Mascarello Alessandra , Castro Allisson Jhonatan Gomes , Da Luz Gabrielle , Altenhofen Delsi , Mendes Camila Pires , Leal Paulo Cesar , Yunes Rosendo Augusto , Nunes Ricardo José , Silva Fátima Regina Mena Barreto
Published: October 2015

To characterize the role and the mechanism of action of (2E)‐N′‐(1′‐naphthyl)‐3,4,5‐trimethoxybenzohydrazide (BZD) on incretin secretion, glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and α‐glucosidase activity on intestine, targets for glucose homeostasis. It was assayed on glucose tolerance test (GTT) to analyze GLP‐1 secretion and the activity of DPP‐4 enzyme in vitro. In skeletal muscle, mechanism of action on glucose uptake was carried out by in vitro experiments. The activity of intestinal disaccharidases was performed after in vivo and in vitro experiments. The compound improved the glucose tolerance around 30%, 25%, and 20% at 15, 30, and 60 min, respectively and potentiated the sitagliptin effect, an inhibitor of the enzyme that removes GLP‐1, about 50, 45, and 54% at 15, 30, and 60 min, respectively. Additionally, BZD did not modify the activity of DPP‐4 enzyme. The acute effect of BZD on glucose uptake is mediated by increasing GLUT4 expression (around 140%) and its translocation to the plasma membrane in soleus muscle. The genomic effect as well as GLUT4 translocation involve the activation of PI‐3K and MAPK pathways and require the microtubules integrity to the complete stimulatory effect of this compound on glucose uptake. Beyond, BZD acts in an alternative target to ameliorate glycaemia, intestinal disaccharidases. In a whole, these data point an incretino‐ and insulinomimetic effect of the compound for glycemic control. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1199–1209, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incorporating Resilience Factors Into the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide: The Role of Hope and Self‐Forgiveness in an Older Adult Sample
Authors: Cheavens Jennifer S. , Cukrowicz Kelly C. , Hansen Ryan , Mitchell Sean M.
Published: October 2015

Objectives

The interpersonal theory of suicide posits that perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness are risk factors for suicide ideation. To more comprehensively characterize this model, it is important to identify resilience factors. Forgiveness of oneself may attenuate the relation between perceived burdensomeness and suicide ideation. Similarly, hope might weaken the association between thwarted belongingness and suicide ideation.

Method

We examined these relations cross‐sectionally in a sample (N = 91) of older adults after including symptoms of depression and demographic variables in the models.

Results

Self‐forgiveness moderated the relation between perceived burdensomeness and suicide ideation. Hope did not moderate the relation between thwarted belongingness and suicide ideation.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that including resilience factors (i.e., self‐forgiveness) in models of suicide ideation may result in better identification of those most at risk for suicide and may allow for more precise intervention targets.
Gene expression analysis during acute hepatitis C virus infection associates dendritic cell activation with viral clearance
Authors: Zabaleta Aintzane , Riezu‐Boj Jose‐Ignacio , Larrea Esther , Villanueva Lorea , Lasarte Juan Jose , Guruceaga Elizabeth , Fisicaro Paola , Ezzikouri Sayeh , Missale Gabriele , Ferrari Carlo , Benjelloun Soumaya , Prieto Jesús , Sarobe Pablo
Published: October 2015

Viral clearance during acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with the induction of potent antiviral T‐cell responses. Since dendritic cells (DC) are essential in the activation of primary T‐cell responses, gene expression was analyzed in DC from patients during acute HCV infection. By using microarrays, gene expression was compared in resting and activated peripheral blood plasmacytoid (pDC) and myeloid (mDC) DC from acute HCV resolving patients (AR) and from patients who become chronically infected (ANR), as well as in healthy individuals (CTRL) and chronically‐infected patients (CHR). For pDC, a high number of upregulated genes was found in AR patients, irrespective of DC stimulation. However, for mDC, most evident differences were detected after DC stimulation, again corresponding to upregulated genes in AR patients. Divergent behavior of ANR was also observed when analyzing DC from CTRL and CHR, with ANR patients clustering again apart from these groups. These differences corresponded to metabolism‐associated genes and genes belonging to pathways relevant for DC activation and cytokine responses. Thus, upregulation of relevant genes in DC during acute HCV infection may determine viral clearance, suggesting that dysfunctional DC may be responsible for the lack of efficient T‐cell responses which lead to chronic HCV infection. J. Med. Virol. 88:843–851, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhancing fixation strength in periprosthetic femur fractures by orthogonal plating—A biomechanical study
Authors: Lenz Mark , Stoffel Karl , Gueorguiev Boyko , Klos Kajetan , Kielstein Heike , Hofmann Gunther O.
Published: October 2015

Orthogonal plate osteosynthesis enhances fixation stability in periprosthetic femur fractures. Another option are locking attachment plates (LAP) allowing bicortical locking screw placement lateral to the prosthesis stem. Stability of lateral plate osteosynthesis with two LAP (2LAP) was compared to anterolateral orthogonal plate osteosynthesis (OP) with one LAP in a periprosthetic femur fracture model. In six pairs of fresh frozen human femora with cemented Charnley hip prosthesis, a transverse osteotomy was set distal to the tip of the prosthesis simulating a Vancouver type B1 fracture. Each pair was instrumented using a plate tensioner with either one lateral plate and two LAP, or two orthogonal anterolateral plates and one LAP. Stiffness was determined in a four‐point‐bending test prior to cyclic testing (2Hz) with physiologic profile and progressively increasing load up to catastrophic construct failure. Paired t‐test and Wilcoxon‐signed‐rank test were used for statistical evaluation at a level of significance p = 0.05. The OP construct exhibited a significantly higher number of cycles and load to failure (39,627 cycles ± 4,056; 4,463 N ± 906) compared to the 2LAP construct (32,927 cycles ± 3,487; 3,793 N ± 849), p < 0.01. Mediolateral bending and torsional stiffness of the OP (1610 N/mm ± 249; 16.9 Nm/mm ± 6.3) were significantly higher compared to 2 LAP (1077 N/mm ± 189; 12.1 Nm/mm ± 3.9), p = 0.03 for both comparisons. Orthogonal plate osteosynthesis is a valuable option in periprosthetic fracture surgery, offering increased stability compared to a single lateral plate fixed with two LAP. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:591–596, 2016.
Forensic applications of Raman spectroscopy for thein situanalyses of pigments and dyes in ink and paint evidence
Authors: Buzzini Patrick , Suzuki Edward
Published: October 2015

Raman spectroscopy has proven to be a very useful tool for the forensic examination of various colored evidence, including its use in identifying pigments and dyes in paint and inks. Because both paint and inks consist of complex heterogeneous matrices, forensic scientists typically use a battery of different tests to characterize them, with each method contributing information that will be evaluated and integrated to produce an overall compositional profile. The contribution of the Raman method for the examination of these types of evidentiary materials will be described as well as the factors, which will show why this technique is suitable for the forensic endeavor. The literature offers abundant examples that show how Raman spectroscopy produces data that provide a very high degree of discrimination between samples, can perform non‐destructive microscopicalin situanalyses, requires minimal or no sample preparation, and produces data that can be easily stored for database purposes. In this review article, a comprehensive review of the forensic applications of Raman spectroscopy for the characterization, differentiation, comparison, and identification of trace evidence and questioned documents, consisting of paint and ink, respectively, is presented. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluating sources of censoring and truncation in telemetry‐based survival data
Authors: DeCesare Nicholas J. , Hebblewhite Mark , Lukacs Paul M. , Hervieux David
Published: October 2015

Bias in vital rate estimation may come from failing to meet a variety of assumptions during the stages of sampling, monitoring, and analysis, though most are not commonly addressed in published studies. Here, we pay specific attention to various forms of censoring and truncation that present challenges for telemetry‐based monitoring of survival. We use simulations to assess how uncertainty about times of death and imperfect detection probabilities affect Kaplan–Meier survival estimates. We then treat monitoring of threatened woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) in west‐central Alberta as a case study to test for potential effects of non‐random right censoring and interval censoring on survival estimates. We report that monitoring frequency (e.g., daily vs. monthly) and associated uncertainty about the exact time of death do not inherently induce bias on Kaplan–Meier point estimates of survival nor affect estimates of variance. Removing individuals from the at‐risk pool during intervals for which they were not detected did induce a negative bias on resulting survival estimates when the probability of detection was independent of the animals' fates. We recommend using subsequent detections to impute animals' fates during missed intervals in such cases when all animals' fates are eventually known or permanently right censored and when missed detections are not related to changes in mortality risk. Although some assumptions remain difficult to test and of continued concern, we find no evidence of biases in the methodology of Alberta's woodland caribou monitoring program. Our results lend credence to recent evidence of widespread declines in woodland caribou populations across the province. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Microstructural, mechanical and anticorrosion characterisation of new CoCrNbMoZr alloy
Authors: Drob S.I , Vasilescu C. , Andrei M. , Calderon Moreno J.M. , Demetrescu I. , Vasilescu E.
Published: October 2015

In this paper, the microstructure, mechanical and anticorrosive properties of the new CoCrNbMoZr alloy were studied in comparison with those of the commercial CoCrMo, Heraenium CE alloy. SEM and XRD techniques were used to evince the microstructure, and the morphology of the two alloys. Electrochemical linear and potentiodynamic polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods showed the electrochemical and corrosion behaviour of the alloys in artificial Carter‐Brugirard saliva of different composition (doped with NaF, pH = 8.21 and undoped) and pH values (3.83; 7.84; 9.11) simulating the various functional conditions from the oral cavity. The new CoCrNbMoZr alloy showed self‐passivation, more favourable values of the corrosion, passivation and transpassive potentials and tendency to passivation than those of the commercial Heraenium CE alloy and lower values of the passive current density; the values of the corrosion current densities and corrosion rates are lower and polarisation resistances are higher comparing with those of the reference alloy. EIS spectra revealed a passive film, a compact, resistant layer formed especially by the chromium, cobalt, niobium and zirconium oxides. Taking into consideration the microstructural features, electrochemical behaviour, corrosion resistance, and mechanical characteristics, it results that the new CoCrNbMoZr alloy is recommended for the dental applications.
Modified hydrotalcites for improved corrosion protection of reinforcing steel in concrete – preparation, characterization, and assessment in alkaline chloride solution
Authors: Yang Z. , Fischer H. , Cerezo J. , Mol J. M. C. , Polder R.
Published: October 2015

Six MgAl hydrotalcites (Mg/Al = 2 and 3) were synthesized through the modification of two carbonate hydrotalcites (i.e., Mg(2)AlCO3 and Mg(3)AlCO3) by two amino acids (11aminoundecanoic acid and paminobenzoic acid) and sodium nitrite. They were characterized by means of XRD, FTIR, TG/DSC, and elemental analysis. The ion exchange of the modified hydrotalcites (MHTs) were investigated in alkaline chloride solution and the results showed that ion exchange occurred between free chloride ions and the intercalated inhibitive anions in MHT. The corrosion inhibition of three MHTs (Mg/Al = 2) was evaluated based on the open circuit potential and linear polarization resistance evolution of steel coupons in 0.1 M NaOH solution stepwise enriched with chlorides and the results showed that MHT, in particular, Mg(2)AlpAB exhibited an improved corrosion inhibiting effect in terms of a higher chloride threshold compared to its constituent free inhibitor ions (i.e., pAB). This study confirms the dual protection that MHT, in particular, Mg(2)AlpAB, offers to the steel: capturing chlorides and simultaneously releasing the intercalated inhibitors to further protect the steel from corrosion.
Dietary folate, one‐carbon metabolism‐related genes, and gastric cancer risk in Korea
Authors: Kim Woori , Woo Hae Dong , Lee Jeonghee , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young Woo , Sung Joohon , Kim Jeongseon
Published: October 2015

Scope

We evaluated the interactions between polymorphisms involved in one‐carbon metabolism‐related genes and dietary folate intake in gastric cancer risk within the Korean population through a hospital‐based case‐control study.

Methods and results

A total of 542 controls and 271 cases were included. Genotype data were selected from data produced by the Affymetrix Axiom® Exome 319 Array. We considered seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of five genes whose SNPs are located in the coding region with a minor allele frequency > 5%: MTHFR (G1793A, A1298C, C677T), MTR A2756G, MTRR A66G, SHMT1 C1420T, and SLC19A1 G80A. Our study found that MTR A2756G was associated with a decreased gastric cancer risk. MTHFR G1793A showed a statistically significant interaction between dietary folate intake and gastric cancer.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that MTR A2756G is significantly associated with gastric cancer risk, and that MTHFR G1793A statistically interacts with dietary folate intake. Our findings indicate that gene–folate interactions may contribute to gastric cancer risk.
Novel stilbene‐based Fischer base analog of leuco‐TAM – (2E,2′Z)‐{2‐(4‐(E)‐styrylphenyl)propane‐1,3‐diylidene}bis(1,3,3‐trimethylindoline) – derivatives: synthesis and structural consideration by 1D NMR and 2D NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Keum Sam‐Rok , Lim Hyun‐Woo
Published: October 2015

We report the synthesis of a series of novel stilbene‐based (St) Fischer base analogs of leuco‐triarylmethane (LTAM) dyes by treating Fischer base with (E)‐4‐styrylbenzaldehyde derivatives. All St‐LTAM molecules examined herein are characterized by 1D and 2D NMR. They were found to exhibit ZE configuration and isomerize to their diastereomers EE and ZZ in 2–3 h. They exhibit type I behavior of diastereomeric isomerization. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tests for homogeneity of distributions of component lifetimes from system lifetime data with known system signatures
Authors: Zhang Jian , Tony Ng Hon Keung , Balakrishnan Narayanaswamy
Published: October 2015

In this article, we discuss the problem of testing the homogeneity of distributions of component lifetimes based on system lifetime data when the system signatures are known. Both parametric and nonparametric procedures are developed for this problem. For nonparametric testing, the Mann–Whitney‐type statistic is used, and its performance and limitations are discussed. Next, we assume the component lifetimes to follow exponential distributions and then develop different parametric tests. Exact and asymptotic methods are developed based on the method of moments estimators. A Monte Carlo simulation study is used to compare the performance of different parametric procedures with that of the nonparametric procedure. Based on the results of the simulation study, discussions and practical recommendations are made and finally some concluding remarks are provided. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 550–563, 2015
In Brief: Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Sanchez‐Duffhues Gonzalo , Orlova Valeria , ten Dijke Peter
Published: October 2015

Recent evidence has highlighted the role of endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) in the onset and progression of a number of human pathologies. EndoMT involves the loss of an endothelial signature to generate unspecialized mesenchymal‐like cells, susceptible to being re‐differentiated into mesodermal cell types, including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. Therefore, modulation of the molecular pathways controlling EndoMT can be considered as a therapeutic approach for particular human diseases. In addition, EndoMT may be harnessed for tissue engineering by producing multipotent mesenchymal cells able to differentiate into mutiple cell types. Copyright © 2015 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of mechanical properties of porous composite scaffolds with tailorable degradation kinetics after in vitro degradation using digital image correlation
Authors: Idaszek J. , Brynk T. , Jaroszewicz J. , Vanmeert F. , Bruinink A. , Święszkowski W.
Published: October 2015

Tissue engineering combines artificial scaffolds and living cells in order to reconstruct damaged tissues and organs. The biodegradable scaffolds should maintain their mechanical properties during first stages of the regeneration. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent the degradation affects the mechanical stability of novel biodegradable composite scaffolds in relation to their composition. The scaffolds were made using fused deposition modeling. They were composed of ternary composites containing poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), 5 wt% of tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and 5, 15, and 25 wt% of poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA). Scaffolds made of pristine PCL and binary composite PCL–TCP were tested as reference samples. The degradation experiment was carried out in simulated body fluid at 37°C for 12 weeks. Mechanical tests were carried out in a mechanical tester. Strain was measured using digital image correlation and crossbar displacement. Chemical composition had a significant effect on initial mechanical properties and their changes during degradation. The initial apparent Young's modulus of ternary composite scaffolds was two times higher than that of PCL–TCP. Higher PLGA concentration yielded faster decrease of the mechanical properties. At the end of the experiment, there were no significant differences of the modulus among all tested materials although degradation of the ternary composite scaffolds was significantly advanced. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2402–2410, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Determination of the Velocity Difference between Jet Fragments for a Range of Copper Liners with Different Small Grain Sizes
Authors: Elshenawy Tamer
Published: October 2015

A range of small calibre shaped charge copper liners were manufactured experimentally by the electro‐deposition technique. The average grain size of the produced copper liners was determined using the SEM technique. The specific breakup time, which represents the velocity difference between the particulated jet neighboring fragments (VPL), was determined for the range of copper liners of different grain sizes using Zerelli‐Armstrong constitutive model. The specific breakup time and the total number of the jet fragments were studied over the range of grain size and the predicted jet temperature.
Emulation and Calculation of the Burning Surface of 3D Grains of Partially Cut Multi‐Perforated Stick Propellant using the Level Set Method
Authors: Xiao Zhenggang , He Weidong , Xu Fuming
Published: October 2015

In order to calculate the burnt mass fraction of complex three‐dimensional (3D) propellant grains to meet the requirements of interior ballistic modelling; the level set method is introduced to emulate and calculate the burning surface area of partially cut 7‐perforated propellant. The surface evolution and simulation of a 3D grain of partially cut 7‐perforated propellant are divided into two parts: the grain configuration initialization and the level set calculation of the propellant regression process. Parallel layer burning is assumed so that the burning surface regresses layer by layer in a direction normal to the surface until the grain is burnt completely. As the burnt mass fraction increases, the remaining propellant volume decreases gradually. The level set method easily simulates the slivering process for complex grain geometries. In this way, the burnt mass fraction of partially cut 7‐perforated propellant grain can be calculated by the level set method for the entire combustion process. Results show that the level set method is suitable to capture the burning surface for each burning step and its related parameters, such as the burning area, the remaining propellant volume and burnt mass fraction. More importantly, the level set method gives a possible solution to the coupling of grain combustion with the internal fluid simulation by the pressure and velocity. It is impossible for geometry‐based methods to integrate the internal fluid parameters in an interior ballistic model. Also, the level set method will benefit substantially the grain design and lead to improved internal ballistic performance.
Two Fungal Infections of Inflatable Penile Prostheses in Diabetics
Authors: Cotta Brittney H. , Butcher Michael , Welliver Charles , McVary Kevin , Köhler Tobias
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Penile prosthesis infections have decreased since the introduction of antibiotic-coated implants. Infections that do occur can be from more rare and virulent organisms than the traditional skin flora historically implicated.

Aim

In this report, we present two cases of inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) infection from Candida organisms in insulin-dependent diabetic patients.

Methods

Case report with literature review.

Main Outcome Measures

Resolution of the two cases.

Results

Both patients were found to have insulin-dependent diabetes. Both patients also presented with infection of the device with Candida species, with the implant pump adherent to their scrotal skin.

Conclusions

This report supports the emerging literature that the flora of IPP infections is changing. We suggest considering adding antifungal agents to antibiotic coatings, dips, or washout solutions at the time of penile prosthesis surgery in diabetic patients.
Retrospective Analysis of Clinical Features, Treatment and Outcome of Coital Injuries of the Female Genital Tract Consecutive to Consensual Sexual Intercourse in the Limbe Regional Hospital
Authors: Tchounzou Robert , Chichom-Mefire Alain
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Nonobstetrical genital injuries are gradually becoming a common cause of genital injuries. Consensual sex has been reported to be a possible cause of this type of injuries, but its contribution to traumatic lesions of the female genital tract is not well known. It has been suggested that injury consecutive to consensual sex can be extensive and life-threatening.

Aim

The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical features, treatment modalities, and the outcome of injuries to the female genital tract consecutive to a consensual sexual intercourse.

Methods

A retrospective review of records of female patients admitted in our institution with a complaint of genital injury over a 5-year period. We collected data regarding patient and injury characteristics, findings of the gynecologic examination, modalities of management and final outcome.

Main Outcome Measures

Anatomic location and nature of injury, modalities of management, admission rate and mortality rate.

Results

Forty six cases could be analyzed. Their mean age was 25.6 years. Almost 35% of patients sustained the injury during their first sexual contact. The majority presented with bleeding, often combined with pain. One patient presented with features of peritonitis. During examination, no anatomic lesions could be identified in 16 (34.8%) of patients. When a lesion was present, it concerned mostly the posterior fornix (28.3%) and the lateral vaginal wall (10%). The most frequently described lesion was a laceration. The majority of patients (83%) were treated with suturing under local anesthesia. The admission rate was 28%, and was significantly higher in patients with a laceration of the posterior fornix. No death was recorded.

Conclusions

Coital injuries following consensual sex often present in the form of a life-threatening condition and young female with no previous sexual experience are particularly exposed. Most lesions can be treated with a simple suture.
Long‐term cognitive follow‐up in children treated for Maroteaux‐Lamy syndrome
Authors: Ebbink Berendine J. , Brands Marion M. G. , den van Hout Johanna M. P. , Lequin Maarten H. , den van Braak Robert R. J. Coebergh , van de Weitgraven Rianne L. , Plug Iris , Aarsen Femke K. , van der Ploeg Ans T.
Published: October 2015

Background

It remains unclear to what extent the brain is affected by Maroteaux‐Lamy syndrome (MPS VI), a progressive lysosomal storage disorder. While enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) elicits positive effects, the drug cannot cross the blood–brain barrier. We therefore studied cognitive development and brain abnormalities in the Dutch MPS VI patient population treated with ERT.

Methods

In a series of 11 children with MPS VI (age 2 to 20 years), we assessed cognitive functioning and brain magnetic resonance imaging prospectively at the start of ERT and at regular times thereafter up to 4.8 years. We also assessed the children's clinical characteristics, their siblings’ cognitive development, and their parents’ educational levels.

Results

The patients’ intelligence scores ranged from normal to mentally delayed (range test scores 52–131). In 90 %, their scores remained fairly stable during follow‐up, generally lying in the same range as their siblings’ test scores (median for patients = 104, median for siblings = 88) and comparing well with the parental educational levels. Native‐speaking patients had higher intelligence test scores than non‐native‐speaking patients. Two patients, both with high baseline glycosaminoglycan levels in their urine and severe mutations in the arylsulfatase B gene, scored clearly lower than expected. Patients with pY210C performed best. Brain abnormalities were aspecific, occurring more in patients with severe symptoms.

Conclusion

Our study shows that cognitive development in MPS VI patients is determined not only by familial and social‐background factors, but, in patients with a severe form of the disease, also by the disease itself. Therefore in patients with severe disease presentation cognition should be monitored carefully.
New users of antipsychotic medication: A population-based cohort study of occupational outcome measures in relation to antipsychotic on-label and off-label prescribing practices
Authors: Baandrup L. , Kruse M.
Published: October 2015

Background

Treatment with antipsychotic medication is thoroughly investigated in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder but is also widely applied for a diversity of off-label conditions, despite an uncertain risk-benefit ratio. This study examined the relationship between antipsychotic prescribing patterns and labor market affiliation, considering both authority approved and off-label prescriptions and the relation to polypharmacy.

Methods

Register-based cohort study using a dataset of 71,254 new antipsychotic users with a psychiatric diagnosis. Labor market affiliation and duration of welfare payments were analyzed using linear regression models and duration analysis. The analyses were adjusted for the following confounding variables: age, gender, diagnosis, marital status, length of education, and utilization of mental health care services.

Results

The majority of new antipsychotic users received welfare payments for prolonged periods of time during the observation period, even more so for individuals treated with antipsychotic polypharmacy or other antipsychotic combination regimens. The risk of permanently leaving the labor market was also associated with antipsychotic combination regimen.

Conclusions

Antipsychotic treatment, especially in combination with other antipsychotics or other psychotropic drugs, could serve as a marker of subjects with increased need for support to maintain the labor market affiliation. However, causality cannot be inferred from an observational study because of residual confounding that could not be adjusted for in this study.
A phase 1 study to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of PQ912, a glutaminyl cyclase inhibitor, in healthy subjects
Authors: Lues Inge , Weber Frank , Meyer Antje , Bühring Uli , Hoffmann Torsten , Kühn‐Wache Kerstin , Manhart Susanne , Heiser Ulrich , Pokorny Rolf , Chiesa Joseph , Glund Konrad
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Pyroglutamate‐amyloid‐β (pE‐Aβ) peptides are major components of Aβ‐oligomers and Aβ‐plaques, which are regarded as key culprits of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. PQ912 is a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme glutaminyl cyclase (QC), essential for the formation of pE‐Aβ peptides.

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single‐ and multiple‐ascending oral dose study investigated the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of PQ912 in healthy nonelderly and elderly subjects.

Results

PQ912 was considered safe and well tolerated with dose‐proportional pharmacokinetics up to doses of 200 mg. At higher doses up to 1800 mg, exposure was supraproportional and exposure in elderly subjects was approximately 1.5‐ to 2.1‐fold higher. Exposure in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was approximately 20% of the unbound drug in plasma, and both serum and CSF QC activity was inhibited in a dose‐related manner.

Discussion

This first‐in‐man study of a compound‐targeting QC inhibition justifies further development of PQ912 for the treatment of AD.