bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship of angiogenic factors to maternal and neonatal manifestations of early‐onset and late‐onset preeclampsia
Authors: Pinheiro Cilene Carlos , Rayol Patricia , Gozzani Luiz , dos Reis Luciene Machado , Zampieri Gianfranco , Dias Cristiane Bitencourt , Woronik Viktoria
Published: June 2014

Objective

An imbalance between angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors has been implicated in the pathogenesis and severity of preeclampsia. In this study, we evaluated serum levels of an angiogenic factor and an antiangiogenic factor – placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt‐1), respectively – in pregnant women with preeclampsia, as well as evaluating the impact of those factors on maternal and fetal outcomes.

Method

We studied 44 pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia and admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). The preeclampsia was classified (by weeks of gestation at delivery) as early‐onset (<34 weeks) or late‐onset (≥34 weeks). We analyzed serum PlGF and sFlt‐1, as well as urinary PlGF at admission to the ICU.

Results

In the early‐onset preeclampsia group, the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio was higher, as was serum sFlt‐1, whereas serum PlGF was lower. Serum sFlt‐1 and the sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio correlated positively with proteinuria and length of maternal hospital stay and correlated negatively with birth weight. The sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio correlated positively with length of newborn stay in the neonatal ICU.

Conclusion

Angiogenic imbalance is more pronounced in patients with early‐onset preeclampsia and correlates with worse clinical outcomes, especially for the neonates. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The preparation of α‐bis and α,ω‐tetrakis aromatic oxazolyl‐ and carboxyl‐functionalized polymers using 1,1‐bis[4‐(2‐(4,4‐dimethyl‐1,3‐oxazolyl))phenyl]ethylene in atom transfer radical polymerization reactions
Authors: Summers Gabriel J , Maseko Rejoice B , Summers Carol A
Published: June 2014

The preparation of new compounds, 1,1‐bis[4‐(2‐(4,4‐dimethyl‐1,3‐oxazolyl))phenyl]ethanol and a new symmetrically disubstituted 1,1‐diphenylethylene derivative, 1,1‐bis[4‐(2‐(4,4‐dimethyl‐1,3‐oxazolyl))phenyl]ethylene, is described. 1,1‐Bis[4‐(2‐(4,4‐dimethyl‐1,3‐oxazolyl))phenyl]ethylene was utilized as a dioxazolyl initiator precursor for the polymerization of styrene by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) methods to produce α‐bis(oxazolyl) polystyrene. The kinetic study of the polymerization process indicated that the free radical polymerization reaction for the preparation of α‐bis(oxazolyl) polystyrene follows first‐order rate kinetics with respect to monomer consumption. α,ω‐Tetrakis(oxazolyl) polystyrene was prepared by a new, in situ, controlled/living, post‐ATRP chain‐end‐functionalization reaction which involves the direct addition of 1,1‐bis[4‐(2‐(4,4‐dimethyl‐1,3‐oxazolyl))phenyl]ethylene to the ω‐terminus of the α‐bis(oxazolyl) polystyrene derivative, without the isolation and purification of the polymeric precursor. α‐Bis(carboxyl) and α,ω‐tetrakis(carboxyl) polystyrene derivatives were obtained by the quantitative chemical transformation of the oxazoline groups of the respective aromatic oxazolyl chain‐end‐functionalized polystyrene derivatives to the aromatic carboxyl groups. The organic precursor compounds, the dioxazolyl‐functionalized 1,1‐diphenylethylene derivative and the functionalized polymers were characterized using 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, size‐exclusion and thin‐layer chromatography and non‐aqueous titration measurements. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Cognitive and affective influences on perceived risk of ovarian cancer
Authors: Peipins Lucy A. , McCarty Frances , Hawkins Nikki A. , Rodriguez Juan L. , Scholl Lawrence E. , Leadbetter Steven
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Studies suggest that both affective and cognitive processes are involved in the perception of vulnerability to cancer and that affect has an early influence in this assessment of risk. We constructed a path model based on a conceptual framework of heuristic reasoning (affect, resemblance, and availability) coupled with cognitive processes involved in developing personal models of cancer causation.

Methods

From an eligible cohort of 16 700 women in a managed care organization, we randomly selected 2524 women at high, elevated, and average risk of ovarian cancer and administered a questionnaire to test our model (response rate 76.3%). Path analysis delineated the relationships between personal and cognitive characteristics (number of relatives with cancer, age, ideas about cancer causation, perceived resemblance to an affected friend or relative, and ovarian cancer knowledge) and emotional constructs (closeness to an affected relative or friend, time spent processing the cancer experience, and cancer worry) on perceived risk of ovarian cancer.

Results

Our final model fit the data well (root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.028, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.99, normed fit index (NFI) = 0.98). This final model (1) demonstrated the nature and direction of relationships between cognitive characteristics and perceived risk; (2) showed that time spent processing the cancer experience was associated with cancer worry; and (3) showed that cancer worry moderately influenced perceived risk.

Discussion

Our results highlight the important role that family cancer experience has on cancer worry and shows how cancer experience translates into personal risk perceptions. This understanding informs the discordance between medical or objective risk assessment and personal risk assessment. Published in 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Modeling Ignition and Thermal Wave Progression in Binary Granular Pyrotechnic Compositions
Authors: Knapp Sebastian , Weiser Volker , Kelzenberg Stefan , Eisenreich Norbert
Published: June 2014

Oxidizer and fuel particles are the ingredients of classical pyrotechnics. Particle concentration, size, melting, evaporation, and decomposition of the particles, heat and mass transfer, reaction kinetics, and heat of reaction control the burning behavior of these mixtures. A hot‐spot approach models the reaction progress in three dimensions taking into consideration the particulate nature of pyrotechnic compositions. The governing reaction is assumed to be the oxidizer decomposition described by an Avrami‐Erofeev model. Predominantly, the distribution of the oxidizer and fuel particles and their size for various concentrations influence the burning rate beneath the reaction kinetic parameters. The computational results were compared with experimental progression rates and temperatures measured for an example system composed of various Al/CuO‐thermite mixtures with aluminum contents from 8 % to 70 %. The particle sizes were fixed to micrometer‐scale. The curve of progression rate calculations depending on the aluminium particle concentration and their distribution show the same shape as the experimental results.
Temperature‐dependent transport and photoelectric properties in La0.9Hf0.1MnO3 based all‐perovskite‐oxide heterojunctions
Authors: Wang L. , Wu Z. P. , Jiang Y. C. , Ren B. , Huang J. , Tang K. , Zhang J. J. , Gao J. , Wang L. J.
Published: June 2014

All‐perovskite‐oxide heterojunctions composed with tetravalent cation‐doped La0.9Hf0.1MnO3 (LHMO) and 0.7 wt% Nb‐doped SrTiO3 were fabricated using pulsed laser deposition method. Compared to those hole‐doped manganites‐based junctions, much stronger rectifying characteristics were observed in the formed junctions. Special attention has been paid to the temperature dependence of photovoltage (Voc) and short‐circuits current (Isc). It is notable that, under illumination of a light with λ = 532 nm, the Voc dropped from 700 to 120 mV as the temperature increasing. No sudden change of Voc was observed in the whole temperature from 40 to 300 K. However, a maximum of the short‐circuit current was found near the ferromagnetic to paramagnetic phase transition temperature. The energy band diagram of such heterojunctions is constructed and physics related to the rectifying behaviors and photoelectric effect is discussed.
Electrical probing of B‐doped diamond seeds embedded into the interfacial layer of a conductive diamond film
Authors: Tsigkourakos Menelaos , Hantschel Thomas , Bangerter Christophe , Vandervorst Wilfried
Published: June 2014

As undoped diamond seed nanoparticles remain non‐conductive after the growth of B‐doped diamond films, they represent localized regions of low conductivity and basically form a resistive barrier at the diamond film–substrate interface. This can be detrimental for diamond applications that require a good electrical contact with the substrate, such as small electrical probes and electrodes. Therefore, the use of B‐doped seeds is highly required as it can result in a well‐conductive interfacial layer. In this study, we show by electrically probing the diamond interfacial layer with nanometer‐scale resolution using scanning spreading resistance microscopy (SSRM) that B‐doped seeds indeed lead to highly conductive regions at the interface and, in our case, exhibit a resistance similar to the surrounding highly B‐doped grown diamond. We conclude that a seed layer that consists of B‐doped diamond nanoparticles will allow the formation of diamond films with a well‐conductive interfacial layer.
The Influence of Logjams on Largemouth Bass (Micropterus Salmoides) Concentrations on the Lower Roanoke River, a Large Sand‐Bed River
Authors: Schenk E. R. , McCargo J. W. , Moulin B. , Hupp C. R. , Richter J. M.
Published: June 2014

This study examines the relation between logjams and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) on the alluvial sand‐bed lower Roanoke River. Disparate data sets from previous bank erosion, fisheries, and large wood studies were used to compare the distribution of largemouth bass with logjam frequency. Logjams are related to the frequency of bank mass wasting increasing from near an upstream dam to the middle reach of the study segment and then decreasing as the river approaches sea level. The highest concentration of largemouth bass and logjams was in the middle reach (110 fish per hour and 21 jams per km). Another measure of largemouth bass distribution, fish biomass density (g h−1), had a similar trend with logjams and was a better predictor of fish distribution versus logjams (R2 = 0.6 and 0.8 and p = 0.08 and 0.02 for fish per hour and g h−1 versus logjam, respectively). We theorize that the preference for adult bass to congregate near logjams indicates the use of the jams as feeding areas. The results of a principal component analysis indicate that fish biomass concentration is much more related to logjam frequency than channel geometry (width, depth, and bank height), bed grain size, bank erosion, or turbidity. The results of this research support recent studies on in‐channel wood and fisheries: Logjams appear to be important for maintaining, or increasing, both largemouth bass numbers and total biomass of fish in large eastern North American rivers. Persistent logjams, important as habitat, exist where relatively undisturbed river reaches allow for bank erosion inputs of wood and available anchoring locations. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Approaches to increasing analytical throughput of human samples with multi‐isotope imaging mass spectrometry
Authors: Steinhauser Matthew L. , Guillermier Christelle , Wang Mei , Lechene Claude P.
Published: June 2014

Multi‐isotope imaging mass spectrometry (MIMS) combines stable isotope tracers with the quantitative imaging of NanoSIMS ion microscopy. With extensive safety precedent, use of stable isotopes in MIMS applications opens the possibility of studying a wide array of biological questions in humans. Here we describe a series of approaches to increase the effective analytical throughput for detecting rare nuclear labeling events with MIMS. At the level of sample preparation, cells in suspension were smeared at high density or pelleted cells were embedded and sectioned to reach nuclear depth. Presputtering conditions were optimized for each cell type to ensure the reproducible sampling of nuclei. Adipose tissue posed a different challenge as the large volume of adipocytes results in an obligatorily low density of nuclei in any given plane. Before introducing samples to the NanoSIMS instrument, all nuclei were fluorescently stained and imaged, and their coordinates were recorded, allowing automated analysis of fields that contained at least one nucleus and therefore minimizing analysis of dead space. These data emphasize unique challenges posed by human studies, where both ethical and practical issues may limit the administration of stable isotope labels for prolonged periods of time as may be necessary to achieve high labeling frequencies in cells that divide infrequently. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Voxelwise single‐subject analysis of imaging metabolic response to therapy in neuro‐oncology
Authors: Guo Mengye , Yap Jeffrey T. , Van den Abbeele Annick D. , Lin Nancy U. , Schwartzman Armin
Published: June 2014

F‐18‐Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) has been used to evaluate the metabolic response of metastatic brain tumours to treatment by comparing their tumour glucose metabolism before and after treatment. The standard analysis based on regions‐of‐interest has the advantage of simplicity. However, it is by definition restricted to those regions and is subject to observer variability. In addition, the observed changes in tumour metabolism are often confounded by normal changes in the tissue background, which can be heterogenous. We propose an analysis pipeline for automatically detecting the change at each voxel in the entire brain of a single subject, while adjusting for changes in the background. The complete analysis includes image registration, segmentation, a hierarchical model for background adjustment and voxelwise statistical comparisons. We demonstrate the method's ability to identify areas of tumour response and/or progression in two subjects enrolled in a clinical trial using FDG‐PET to evaluate lapatinib for the treatment of brain metastases in breast cancer patients. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of IOTA simple rules for diagnosis of ovarian cancer: meta‐analysis
Authors: Nunes N. , Ambler G. , Foo X. , Naftalin J. , Widschwendter M. , Jurkovic D.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To present data on prospective evaluation of the International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA) ‘simple‐rules’ tool for the diagnosis of ovarian cancer and to perform a meta‐analysis of studies that utilized the same diagnostic method.

Methods

In the present study a level‐II ultrasound operator systematically assessed the tumors of women with an ultrasound diagnosis of adnexal tumor(s) according to the IOTA simple‐rules protocol to determine the risk of the tumor being malignant. The results of simple rules were compared with the ‘pattern recognition’ method and with histological findings. This validation study was included in the subsequent meta‐analysis, for which we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane from the publication of the first study in 2008. The terms used were ‘simple rules’, ‘simple rules ovarian’, ‘ovar tumor’ and ‘ultrasound’. Quality assessment was performed using the modified Quality Assessment of the Diagnostic Accuracy of Studies (QUADAS‐2) checklist. Random effects meta‐analysis was used to calculate pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity for the simple‐rules tool, and meta‐regression was used to investigate heterogeneity across the studies.

Results

Three hundred and three women were included in the validation study with 168 (55.4%) benign, 19 (6.3%) borderline and 116 (38.3%) malignant tumors on histological examination. The rules were applicable in 237 (78.2%) of the tumors and for these tumors, sensitivity was 96.2% (95% CI, 90.5–99.0%) and specificity was 88.6% (95% CI, 82.0–93.5%). Six of the 88 discovered studies were included in the meta‐analysis along with the current validation study, which resulted in inclusion of a total of 3568 patients. When the meta‐analysis was performed the pooled sensitivity (when the rules were applicable) was 93% (95% CI, 90–96%) (I2 = 32.1%) and the pooled specificity was 95% (95% CI, 93–97%) (I2 = 78.1%). Heterogeneity was observed across the studies. Sensitivity was higher and specificity lower in the study populations in which the prevalence of malignant tumors was greatest.

Conclusion

The simple rules protocol could be used in 76–89% of tumors and is an accurate test for the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Assessment by an ultrasound expert is required when the protocol cannot be applied. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Maternal aspects of fetal cardiac intervention
Authors: Wohlmuth C. , Tulzer G. , Arzt W. , Gitter R. , Wertaschnigg D.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Fetal cardiac interventions have the potential to alter natural disease progression and reduce morbidity and mortality in children. Although there are already encouraging data on fetal outcome, information on maternal morbidity and mortality after intervention is scarce. The aim of the present study was to assess maternal aspects, pregnancy‐associated risks and adverse events in 53 intrauterine cardiac interventions.

Methods

Between October 2000 and December 2012, 53 fetal cardiac interventions were performed in 47 patients (43 aortic valve dilations in 39 patients, seven pulmonary valve dilations in six patients and three balloon atrioseptostomies in two patients). Median gestational age was 26 + 4 (range, 20 + 3 to 33 + 1) weeks. Interventions were performed by an ultrasound‐guided percutaneous approach under general anesthesia. All medical records and patient charts were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

All women were considered to be healthy in the preoperative assessment; 39 (83%) patients continued pregnancy until term and eight of 47 patients had an intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) and were induced. Postoperative nausea was reported in 29.8% of patients and abdominal pain in 36.2% of patients on the day of surgery. Preterm contractions were observed in two patients; no preterm prelabor rupture of membranes occurred. One severe postpartum hemorrhage was observed in a patient with IUFD and subsequent induction; however, this was unrelated to the balloon valvuloplasty. No intensive care unit admission and no major anesthesia‐associated complications (aspiration, anaphylactic reaction, cardiovascular collapse, damage to teeth, laryngeal damage, awareness or hypoxic brain damage) were observed. Maternal mortality was zero. A significant learning curve was observed in terms of duration of intervention.

Conclusion

In our experience, percutaneous needle‐guided fetal cardiac intervention seems to be a safe procedure for the mother. In 53 procedures no major maternal complication directly related to the intervention was observed. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Fetal cardiac parameters for prediction of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Zanardini C. , Prefumo F. , Fichera A. , Botteri E. , Frusca T.
Published: June 2014

Objectives

To assess myocardial performance index measured by conventional Doppler (MPI) and by tissue Doppler imaging (MPI′) at 18 weeks' gestation in monochorionic diamniotic twins for the prediction of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).

Methods

This was a single‐center observational study of 100 uncomplicated monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies attending the twin pregnancy clinic at the University Hospital Spedali Civili of Brescia from 2009 to 2012. MPI and MPI′ were obtained from the left (LV) and right (RV) ventricles of each twin at around 18 weeks of gestation (range, 17 + 1 to 19 + 4 weeks) and fortnightly thereafter. Cases which later developed TTTS formed the study group, and the remaining controls were subdivided into those continuing as uncomplicated pregnancies and those which later developed selective intrauterine growth restriction (sIUGR). Data were analyzed by receiver–operating characteristics curve analysis and univariate and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of the 100 pregnancies, 88 were controls (84 uncomplicated and four developed sIUGR) and 12 developed TTTS. RV‐MPI and LV‐MPI, and LV‐MPI′ were significantly higher in future TTTS recipients than in controls, while RV‐MPI′ was significantly lower in donors. RV‐MPI and LV‐MPI and LV‐MPI′ were found to be predictive indicators in pregnancies that had not yet developed TTTS. Their negative predictive values were > 90%, and their specificities > 80%. The best performing index was LV‐MPI′, with a sensitivity of 91.7% and specificity of 88.6%.

Conclusions

Before diagnosis of TTTS, the cardiac function (as assessed by MPI and MPI′) of the future donor twin is not grossly abnormal, but that of the recipient is abnormal. We identified cardiac indices predictive of the subsequent development of TTTS, and suggest a possible role of these indices in planning the follow‐up of monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Synthesis and Properties of Di‐Chain Esterquat Surfactants
Authors: Han Bing , Geng Tao , Jiang Yajie , Ju Hongbin
Published: June 2014

A series of cationic surfactants, di‐chain esterquat surfactants (EQs), were synthesized from N‐methyl diethanolamine, hydrochloric acid, ethylene oxide, and caprylic acid, decylic acid, or lauric acid by a three‐step process. The synthesized surfactants were characterized by IR, MS, and 1HNMR. Surface properties, antibacterial activity, and biodegradability of the synthesized surfactants were investigated. The results showed that synthesized EQs exhibit high surface activities and good biodegradability. Further, the synthesized surfactant, N,N‐di‐[O‐decanoyl‐2‐hydroxyethyl]‐N‐hydroxyethyl‐N‐methylammonium chloride, exhibits excellent antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus.
Polyphenols of Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) Oil Samples and Geographical Differentiation by Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Saitta Marcello , La Torre Giovanna Loredana , Potortì Angela Giorgia , Di Bella Giuseppa , Dugo Giacomo
Published: June 2014

The phenolic compounds of Italian and Turkish pistachio oil samples were investigated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) with the aim of identifying substances also present in very low concentration; 21 compounds were identified by means of the mass spectra of the trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives. Benzoic acid derivatives (protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid) were the main components; 14 polyphenols were detected in pistachios for the first time. The concentrations of the compounds found were in the range 0.02–5.64 μg/g of fresh pistachio. No appreciable qualitative differences were found between samples of different origin; a multivariate approach was successfully tried to differentiate the samples according to their geographical origin, using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Finally, Canonical Discriminant Analysis (CDA) was further conducted to classify different pistachio samples.
The two-species Vlasov–Maxwell–Landau system in
\( R^{3} \)
Authors: Wang Yanjin
Published: June 2014

We consider the global classical solutions near the Maxwellians to the two-species Vlasov–Maxwell–Landau system in the whole space. It is shown that the cancelation properties between two species coupled with the electric effect yield the faster time decay of the electric field, which leads to our construction of global solutions.
Survey of breast cancer mammography screening behaviors in Eastern Taiwan based on a health belief model
Authors: Wang Wen‐Li , Hsu Sheng‐Der , Wang Jen‐Hung , Huang Li‐Chuan , Hsu Wen‐Lin
Published: June 2014

Breast cancer is the main form of cancer affecting women and the fourth most common cause of cancer mortality in women. The aim of this study was to explore regular mammography screening in Hualien women and to identify the factors that influence its uptake based on a health belief model. This cross‐sectional study was performed between July 2012 and December 2012. A total of 776 women aged 45–69 years were enrolled in the study. The results of crude and adjusted analyses showed that there were significant differences in the prevalence of regular mammography screening, which were related to different age groups, residence areas, educational levels, hormone replacement therapy status, and history of breast cancer. Women in the older age groups, with a higher educational level, in receipt of hormone replacement therapy, and with a personal history of breast cancer had significantly higher odds ratios for regular mammography screening (2.75, 1.68, 1.75, and 1.98, respectively; all p < 0.05).
Noninvasive Treatments for Pediatric Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Focused Review
Authors: Katholi Benjamin R. , Daghstani Suzanne S. , Banez Gerard A. , Brady Kimberly K.
Published: June 2014

This is a review of current literature of noninvasive treatments for pediatric complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). There are a variety of noninvasive approaches to the treatment of pain, but few pediatric‐focused studies have been published in regard to CRPS. In comparison with adult CRPS, there is a greater need for behavioral approaches in children to enable coping with difficult symptoms. Current gaps in knowledge include mechanisms triggering CRPS, pediatric‐focused diagnostic criteria, validated tests that are diagnostically specific, definitive treatment protocols, age‐based medication recommendations, and validation of specific noninvasive treatments in pediatric populations. Intensive multidisciplinary treatment is supported by high recovery rates and a family‐centered approach that allows continuation of goals into the community environment.
Raising the level for
Authors: THORNE JACK A.
Published: June 2014

We prove a simple level-raising result for regular algebraic, conjugate self-dual automorphic forms on$\mathrm{GL}_n$. This gives a systematic way to construct irreducible Galois representations whose residual representation is reducible.
A review of the international trade in amphibians: the types, levels and dynamics of trade in CITES-listed species
Authors: Carpenter Angus I. , Andreone Franco , Moore Robin D. , Griffiths Richard A.
Published: June 2014

Globally, amphibians face many potential threats, including international trade. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the types, levels and dynamics of the amphibian trade at the global scale. This study reviewed the trade in CITES-listed species between 1976 and 2007. Four main trade groups (eggs, skins, meat and individuals) were identified. Trade in amphibian leather focused on Hoplobatrachus tigerinus (5,572 individuals), whereas trade in eggs focused on Ambystoma mexicanum (6,027 eggs). However, for the entire study period (1976–2007), trade in skins and eggs was small compared with trade in meat and live animals. The meat trade was estimated to be worth > USD 111 million, whereas the trade in live animals was estimated to be worth > USD 11.5 million in only three of the genera involved. Trade dynamics have changed as a result of changes in legislation, such as a ban on H. tigerinus exports from Bangladesh for meat. Within the live trade 22 species categorized as either Critically Endangered or Endangered were traded during the study period, and these require greater attention. International trade and potential conservation benefits are affected by countries supplying captive-bred individuals to their domestic markets as this trade goes unrecorded. However, this study only investigated trade in species listed by CITES, and other species may comprise a significant additional component of international trade. The trade in amphibians is dynamic, and changes in both the types of trade and the species concerned were identified over the study period. Conservation concerns have multiplied from issues concerning population depletions to include indirect impacts associated with disease, predation and competition, which requires a reappraisal of data capture and reporting.
R&D SUBSIDIES, INTERNATIONAL KNOWLEDGE DIFFUSION, AND FULLY ENDOGENOUS PRODUCTIVITY GROWTH
Authors: Davis Colin , Hashimoto Ken-ichi
Published: June 2014

This paper investigates the effects of R&D subsidies on aggregate product variety and endogenous productivity growth without scale effects. In a two-country model with imperfect knowledge diffusion, the larger country has a greater share of firms with higher productivity levels. The concentration of relatively productive firms increases knowledge flows between firms, causing an increase in firm-level employment in innovation. Accordingly, the aggregate growth rate is higher when counties are asymmetric than when they are similar in size. The larger scale of firm-level innovation activity reduces market entry, however, and aggregate product variety falls. In this framework, national R&D subsidies have positive effects on the industry share, relative productivity, and wage rate of the implementing country. If the smaller country introduces an R&D subsidy, aggregate product variety rises and productivity growth falls. If the larger country introduces an R&D subsidy, productivity growth rises, but aggregate product variety may rise or fall.
Attacks on medical missions: overview of a polymorphous reality: the case of Médecins Sans Frontières
Authors: Abu Sa‘Da Caroline , Duroch Françoise , Taithe Bertrand
Published: June 2014

The aim of this article is to carry out a preliminary analysis of issues relating to the types of violence that are directed against humanitarian medical missions. Starting from the observation that violence can cause some degree of disruption for a medical organisation such as Médecins Sans Frontières, despite its wide experience which has brought it much wisdom and generated numerous and sporadic responses to such events, the article offers a more subtle analysis of terms and of situations of violence so as to contribute to the establishment of a research project and, in a second phase, to an awareness-raising campaign focusing on these complex phenomena.
Topological quantum phase transitions and edge states in spin-orbital coupled Fermi gases
Authors: Zhou Tao , Gao Yi , Wang Z. D.
Published: June 2014

We study superconducting states in the presence of spin-orbital coupling and Zeeman field. It is found that a phase transition from a Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov state to the topological superconducting state occurs upon increasing the spin-orbital coupling. The nature of this topological phase transition and its critical property are investigated numerically. Physical properties of the topological superconducting phase are also explored. Moreover, the local density of states is calculated, through which the topological feature may be tested experimentally.
A comparison of nifedipine and tamsulosin as medical expulsive therapy for the management of lower ureteral stones without ESWL
Authors: Cao Dehong , Yang Lu , Liu Liangren , Yuan Haichao , Qian Shenqiang , Lv Xiao , Han Pin , Wei Qiang
Published: June 2014

Administration of nifedipine or tamsulosin has been suggested to augment stone expulsion rates. We aimed to compare the stone expulsion rates and adverse effects associated with the use of nifedipine or tamsulosin as medical expulsive therapy (MET) for the management of lower ureteral stones (LUS) without extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) via a literature review and meta-analysis. Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from the Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL and Google Scholar databases. Finally, a total of 7 RCTs with 3897 patients were included. Our meta-analysis showed that tamsulosin could significantly increase the stone expulsion rate relative to nifedipine in patients with LUS (random-effects model; risk ratio [RR] = 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.75–0.88; P < 0.00001). The subgroup analysis indicated no statistically significant difference between the drugs with regard to minor or major adverse effects (fixed-effect model; RR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.91–1.54, P = 0.20; and RR = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.22–11.82, P = 0.63, respectively). This meta-analysis demonstrated that tamsulosin was more effective than nifedipine in patients with LUS, as evidenced by the higher stone expulsion rate. Tamsulosin treatment should therefore be considered for patients with LUS.
Cholinium-based ionic liquids with pharmaceutically active anions
Authors: Araújo João M. M. , Florindo Catarina , Pereiro Ana B. , Vieira Nicole S. M. , Matias Ana A. , Duarte Catarina M. M. , Rebelo Luís P. N. , Marrucho Isabel M.
Published: June 2014

Ionic liquids with cholinium-based active pharmaceutical ingredients (API-ILs) were preparedviaa simple and sustainable two-step anion exchange reaction. The resulting salts have improved upon the chemical, physical and biopharmaceutical properties of the parent APIs.
A reduced graphene oxide/α-cyclodextrin hybrid for the detection of methionine: electrochemical, fluorometric and computational studies
Authors: Zor Erhan , Esad Saglam Muhammed , Alpaydin Sabri , Bingol Haluk
Published: June 2014

We report on fluorometric and voltammetric detection ofl-methionine (Met) based on host–guest interactions between Met and reduced graphene oxide/α-cyclodextrin (rGO/α-CD) hybrid materials.
A BODIPY based indicator for fluorogenic detection of salicylaldehyde with off–on emission
Authors: Li Qian , Xu Jian , Yue Ying , Liao Yuan , Shao Shijun
Published: June 2014

A turn-on fluorescent indicator 1 based on a BODIPY derivative for the detection of salicylaldehyde in aqueous solution by fluorescence spectroscopy has been developed. The formation of a Schiff base between probe 1 and salicylaldehyde suppressed the PET process and prohibited the CN isomerization accounting for the fluorescence response of probe 1.
Cyclization and annulation reactions of nitrogen-substituted cyclopropanes and cyclobutanes
Authors: de Nanteuil F. , De Simone F. , Frei R. , Benfatti F. , Serrano E. , Waser J.
Published: June 2014

This feature article covers recent progress in cyclization and annulation reactions of aminocyclopropanes and aminocyclobutanes to access nitrogen-rich building blocks.
Quaternary ammonium and phosphonium based ionic liquids: a comparison of common anions
Authors: Blundell Rebecca K. , Licence Peter
Published: June 2014

The impact of changing the cationic core, from nitrogen to phosphorus upon the electronic environment of the ionic liquid is investigated with XPS.
Structure–property relationships of novel microwave dielectric ceramics with low sintering temperatures: (Na0.5xBi0.5xCa1−x)MoO4
Authors: Guo Jing , Zhou Di , Li Yong , Shao Tao , Qi Ze-Ming , Jin Biao-Bing , Wang Hong
Published: June 2014

A series of low firing microwave dielectric ceramics (Na0.5xBi0.5xCa1−x)MoO4(0 ≤x≤ 0.6) was synthesized and their structure–property relationships were investigated.
Photochemical and Ga2O3-photoassisted decomposition of the insecticide Fipronil in aqueous media upon UVC radiation
Authors: Hidaka Hisao , Tsukamoto Tohru , Mitsutsuka Yoshihiro , Takamura Takeji , Serpone Nick
Published: June 2014

Fipronil is degraded photolytically and photocatalytically (β-Ga2O3 and TiO2) in aqueous media under UVC illumination and under reductive and oxidative conditions.
Polarized photocurrent response in black phosphorus field-effect transistors
Authors: Hong Tu , Chamlagain Bhim , Lin Wenzhi , Chuang Hsun-Jen , Pan Minghu , Zhou Zhixian , Xu Ya-Qiong
Published: June 2014

Electrical and optoelectronic properties of few-layer black phosphorus field-effect transistors are investigated through spatial-, polarization-, gate-, and bias-dependent photocurrent measurements.
A general approach to the synthesis of 5-S-functionalized pyrimidine nucleosides and their analogues
Authors: Kananovich Dzmitry G. , Reino Alli , Ilmarinen Kaja , Rõõmusoks Marko , Karelson Mati , Lopp Margus
Published: June 2014

A palladium-catalyzed C–S coupling reaction has been used as a key step for the introduction of S-functionality at the C-5 position of the cytosine and uracil nucleosides and their analogues.
Drug–surfactant interaction: thermo-acoustic investigation of sodium dodecyl sulfate and antimicrobial drug (levofloxacin) for potential pharmaceutical application
Authors: Bhardwaj Varun , Bhardwaj Tarun , Sharma Kundan , Gupta Abhishek , Chauhan S. , Cameotra Swaranjit Singh , Sharma Shailesh , Gupta Richa , Sharma Poonam
Published: June 2014

In the present study, the impact of the potential antimicrobial drug (levofloxacin) on the micellar system of anionic surfactant (SDS) has been studied.
Direct electrochemistry of cytochrome c immobilized on a graphene oxide–carbon nanotube composite for picomolar detection of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Dinesh Bose , Mani Veerappan , Saraswathi Ramiah , Chen Shen-Ming
Published: June 2014

A new bionanocomposite electrode based on cytochromecimmobilized graphene oxide-multiwalled carbon nanotube is used to fabricate a highly selective and sensitive amperometric biosensor for the picomolar level detection of hydrogen peroxide which may find application in bioimaging and healthcare
Parallel nanoimaging using an array of 30 heated microcantilevers
Authors: Seong Myunghoon , Somnath Suhas , Kim Hoe Joon , King William P.
Published: June 2014

Parallel nanoimaging using an array of 30 heated AFM cantilevers is reported. The measurement speed and area are increased over standard AFM by two orders of magnitude.
PPy film/TiO2 nanotubes composite with enhanced supercapacitive properties
Authors: Gao Yan , Ding Kun , Xu Xin , Wang Yanzhou , Yu Demei
Published: June 2014

PPy film/TiO2 nanotubes composite show enhanced cycling performance and higher specific capacity as an anode material for supercapacitors.
Polymer-supported PPh3 as a reusable organocatalyst for the Mukaiyama aldol and Mannich reaction
Authors: Matsukawa Satoru , Fukazawa Kazuki , Kimura Junya
Published: June 2014

Polystyrene-supported PPh3 (PS-PPh3) catalyzes the aldol reaction of aldehydes and imines to give the corresponding products in good to high yields.
The effect of alkylation, protonation, and hydroxyl group substitution on reversible alcohol and water addition to 2- and 4-formyl pyridine derivatives
Authors: Barman Sanmitra , Diehl Katharine L. , Anslyn Eric V.
Published: June 2014

The regiochemical influence of hydroxyl or methoxy substitution on 2- and 4-formyl pyridine derivatives upon alcohol and water addition was studied.
Validated HPLC-DAD method for stability study of sulbutiamine HCl
Authors: Abdelwahab Nada S. , Farid Nehal F.
Published: June 2014

Sulbutiamine (SUL) is a synthetic thiamine derivative widely used for treatment of memory disorders.
Magnetic base catalysts for the chemical fixation of carbon dioxide to quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones
Authors: Zhao Ya-Nan , Yu Bing , Yang Zhen-Zhen , He Liang-Nian
Published: June 2014

TBD-functionalized Fe3O4 was proven to be an efficient and recyclable magnetic heterogeneous catalyst for the chemical fixation of CO2 with 2-aminobenzonitriles under mild conditions.
Redox properties of LDH microcrystals coated with a catechol-bearing phosphonate derived from dopamine
Authors: de Victoria Rodríguez Maria , Brunet Ernesto , Nocchetti Morena , Presciutti Federica , Costantino Ferdinando
Published: June 2014

The surface of Zn–Al-chloride LDH microcrystals (LDH = Layered Double Hydroxides) was activated by grafting a redox active catechol bearing bis-phosphonate obtained by dopamine derivatization.
Dual-enzyme natural motors incorporating decontamination and propulsion capabilities
Authors: Sattayasamitsathit Sirilak , Kaufmann Kevin , Galarnyk Michael , Vazquez-Duhalt Rafael , Wang Joseph
Published: June 2014

Self-propelled dual-enzyme natural motors display attractive decontamination and propulsion capabilities. The movement of the biocatalytic tissue motors through the contaminated sample leads to a greatly improved remediation efficiency.
Pressure stabilization of long-missing bare C6 hexagonal rings in binary sesquicarbides
Authors: Zhong Xin , Wang Yanchao , Peng Feng , Liu Hanyu , Wang Hui , Ma Yanming
Published: June 2014

Using a CALYPSO structure searching method, bare C6 rings have been stabilized in the bulk crystal phases of charge-transfer systems at high pressures.
Enhancement of photocatalytic activity for BiPO4via phase junction
Authors: Zhu Yanyan , Liu Yanfang , Lv Yanhui , Ling Qiang , Liu Di , Zhu Yongfa
Published: June 2014

Photo-generated charges of BiPO4with a phase junction could be separated and transferred quickly, which enhanced the photocatalytic performance.
The crystal plane effect of CoFe nanocrystals on Fischer–Tropsch synthesis
Authors: Sun Jiaqiang , Zheng Shenke , Zhang Kui , Song Dechen , Liu Yanting , Sun Xiaodong , Chen Jiangang
Published: June 2014

CoFe nanowires mainly with exposed {110} planes show higher catalytic activity than nanosheets with exposed {1̄11} planes for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis.
A facile synthetic approach to a biodegradable polydisulfide MRI contrast agent
Authors: Cheng Weiren , Rajendran Reshmi , Ren Wei , Gu Liuqun , Zhang Yong , Chuang Kai-Hsiang , Liu Ye
Published: June 2014

A biodegradable novel polydisulfide MRI contrast agent forming self-assembly in aqueous solution with a low cytotoxicity and a higherr1is promising for producing better MRI imaging with fewer side effects.
Adaptive neural control of state delayed non‐linear systems with unmodelled dynamics and distributed time‐varying delays
Authors: Zhang Tianping , Xia Xiaonan , Zhu Jiaming
Published: June 2014

In this study, a robust adaptive control is proposed for a class of strict‐feedback state delayed non‐linear systems with unmodelled dynamics and distributed time‐varying delays using radial basis function neural networks. Dynamic uncertainties are dealt with using separation technique and introducing a dynamic signal. The terms including state time‐varying delay and distributed time‐varying delay uncertainties are compensated for by constructing appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals. Using Young's inequality, only one learning parameter need to be tuned online at each step of recursion. It is proved that the proposed design method is able to guarantee semi‐global uniform ultimate boundedness of all signals in the closed‐loop system. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Topological structure and the disturbance decoupling problem of singular Boolean networks
Authors: Meng Min , Feng Jun‐e
Published: June 2014

The general singular Boolean networks are proposed in this study, motivated by the algebraic form of dynamic‐algebraic Boolean networks via the semi‐tensor product of matrices. First, one of the most important problems for this kind of networks, solvability problem, is discussed. Then, in order to calculate the fixed points and cycles, the transition matrix of a singular Boolean network is defined, which contains all the state transferring information. At last, the general singular Boolean control networks are considered with their solvability and the disturbance decoupling problem is presented and solved by a constant control. Illustrative examples are given to show the feasibility of the results.
Multi‐scale mean shift tracking
Authors: Yu Wangsheng , Tian Xiaohua , Hou Zhiqiang , Zha Yufei , Yang Yuan
Published: June 2014

In this study, a three‐dimensional mean shift tracking algorithm, which combines the multi‐scale model and background weighted spatial histogram, is proposed to address the problem of scale estimation under the framework of mean shift tracking. The target template is modelled with multi‐scale model and described with three‐dimensional spatial histogram. The tracking algorithm is implemented by three‐dimensional mean shift iteration, which translates the problem of scale estimation in two‐dimensional image plane into the localisation in three‐dimensional image space. To enhance the robustness, the background weighted histogram is employed to suppress the background information in the target candidate model. Firstly, the multi‐scale model and three‐dimensional spatial histogram are introduced to represent the target template. Then, the three‐dimensional mean shift iteration formulation is derived based on the similarity measure between the target model and the target candidate model. Finally, a multi‐scale mean shift tracking algorithm combining multi‐scale model and background weighted spatial histogram is proposed. The proposed algorithm is evaluated on some challenging sequences which contain scale changed targets and other complex appearance variations in comparison with three representative mean shift based tracking algorithms. Both the qualitative results and quantitative analysis indicate that the proposed algorithm outperforms the referenced algorithms in both tracking precision and scale estimation.
1.4 kV Junction barrier Schottky rectifier with mixed trench structure
Authors: Li‐kun Xu , Ying Wang , Zheng Dou , Wei Xue
Published: June 2014

Junction barrier Schottky (JBS) rectifier with mixed trench structure on 4H‐SiC for improving the electrical performance is proposed. The device shows the increasing forward current density compared to the common JBS rectifier on 4H‐SiC because of the larger Schottky contact area without considerable degradation of breakdown voltage. This work is solely based on simulations with Silvaco TCAD tool. The forward current density of this device with 1.5 µm Schottky region depth of the trench structure is 102 A/cm2 at the forward voltage drop of 3 V while the current density of the common JBS is 70 A/cm2. The proposed structure improves the forward voltage drop at 100 A/cm2 effectively by 23%. The reverse characteristic and output capacitance of this device are similar to common JBS rectifier. In addition, in this work the forward and reverse characteristic of the proposed device at room and high temperatures is simulated.
Multitarget tracking with state dependent detection
Authors: Song Taek Lyul , Mušicki Darko , Kim Yong
Published: June 2014

Target tracking determines the number and the trajectories of targets in the surveillance area. The sensors provide an imperfect target detection and measurement environment, complicated by clutter measurements. The vast majority of published target tracking algorithms assume that the probability of target detection is independent of the trajectory state. This assumption is often incorrect, with subsequent degradation in the target tracking performance. The authors present two multitarget trackers which incorporate the state‐dependent probability of target detection, each of which improves upon the state of the art capabilities of target tracking in such environments.
Scattering of trajectories at a separatrix under autoresonance
Authors: Kiselev Oleg , Tarkhanov Nikolai
Published: June 2014

The subject of this paper is solutions of an autoresonance equation. We look for a connection between the parameters of the solution bounded as t  →−∞, and the parameters of two two-parameter families of solutions as t  → ∞. One family consists of the solutions which are not captured into resonance, and another of those increasing solutions which are captured into resonance. In this way we describe the transition through the separatrix for equations with slowly varying parameters and get an estimate for parameters before the resonance of those solutions which may be captured into autoresonance.