bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Providing information about the consequences of female genital mutilation to healthcare providers caring for women and girls living with female genital mutilation: A systematic review
Authors: Oringanje Chioma M. , Okoro Anthony , Nwankwo Ogonna N. , Meremikwu Martin M.
Published: February 2017

Background

The persistence of female genital mutilation (FGM) in some countries, despite an overall decline in the prevalence of the practice, calls for improvement in the capacity of healthcare workers and institutions to provide optimal care for this population.

Objectives

To determine the impact of providing information on FGM and its consequences to healthcare providers on their attitudes toward FGM, and quality of care and patient satisfaction.

Search strategy

The following major databases were searched from inception to August 2015: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov, without language restrictions.

Selection criteria

Controlled studies were included based on use of objective measures.

Data collection and analysis

Two team members independently screened and collected data. Relative risks and proportions were calculated and evidence assessed using the GRADE (Grade of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach.

Results

One study was identified. Based on this study there was no evidence to suggest change in healthcare provider outcomes after the intervention.

Conclusions

Despite a comprehensive search, only one study of low methodological quality was included. This precludes a definitive conclusion regarding the impact of providing information on FGM to healthcare providers. More research is needed.

PROSPERO registration

CRD42015024570.
Clinical outcomes for couples containing a reciprocal chromosome translocation carrier without preimplantation genetic diagnosis
Authors: Yin Biao , Zhu Yuanchang , Wu Tonghua , Shen Shuqiu , Zeng Yong , Liang Desheng
Published: February 2017

Objective

To evaluate the pregnancy outcomes of couples containing a carrier of a reciprocal chromosome translocation (RCT) after assisted reproductive technology without preimplantation genetic diagnosis.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed using data for couples with an RCT carrier and control couples with a normal karyotype (1:4 ratio) who underwent assisted reproductive technology cycles at a Chinese fertility center in 2010–2011. The embryos were fertilized via in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Only the first pick‐up cycles were used for analysis. Clinical variables were compared.

Results

Compared with the control group (n=164), the RCT group (n=41) had a marginally lower clinical pregnancy rate (46.3% [19/41] vs 54.3% [89/164]), implantation rate (21.7% [23/106] vs 26.9% [118/438]), multiple‐gestation pregnancy rate (21.1% [4/19] vs 32.6% [29/89]), and delivery rate (36.6% [15/41] vs 47.6% [78/164]), whereas the spontaneous abortion rate was slightly higher (21.1% [4/19] vs 12.4% [11/89]). However, none of these differences were significant.

Conclusion

The clinical outcomes for RCT carriers were acceptable after IVF/ICSI without performing preimplantation genetic diagnosis, indicating that this approach might comprise a feasible alternative fertility treatment for RCT carriers.
The impact of thermal stability of oxytocin on access, and the importance of setting proper product specifications
Authors: Hodgins Stephen , Lukulay Patrick H.
Published: February 2017

The current specifications for the storage conditions and shelf life for oxytocin could be unnecessarily stringent, resulting in compromised access to an important commodity.
Retracted: Maternal serum amyloid A level as a novel marker of primary unexplained recurrent early pregnancy loss
Authors: Ibrahim Moustafa I. , Ramy Ahmed R. , Abdelhamid Ahmed S. , Ellaithy Mohamed I. , Omar Amna , Harara Rany M. , Fathy Hayam , Abolouz Ashraf S.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To assess maternal serum amyloid A (SAA) levels among women with primary unexplained recurrent early pregnancy loss (REPL).

Methods

A prospective study was conducted among women with missed spontaneous abortion in the first trimester at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital, Cairo, Egypt, between January 21 and December 25, 2014. Women with at least two consecutive primary unexplained REPLs and no previous live births were enrolled. A control group was formed of women with no history of REPL who had at least one previous uneventful pregnancy with no adverse outcomes. Serum samples were collected to measure SAA levels. The main outcome was the association between SAA and primary unexplained REPL.

Results

Each group contained 96 participants. Median SAA level was significantly higher among women with REPL (50.0 μg/mL, interquartile range 26.0–69.0) than among women in the control group (11.6 μg/mL, interquartile range 6.2–15.5; P<0.001). The SAA level was an independent indicator of primary unexplained REPL, after adjusting for maternal age and gestational age (odds ratio 1.12, 95% confidence interval 1.06–1.19; P<0.001).

Conclusion

Elevated SAA levels found among women with primary unexplained REPL could represent a novel biomarker for this complication of pregnancy.
Development and application of LED arrays for use in phototherapy research
Authors: Hadis Mohammed A. , Cooper Paul R. , Milward Michael R. , Gorecki Patricia. C. , Tarte Edward , Churm James , Palin William M.
Published: February 2017

Lasers/LEDs demonstrate therapeutic effects for a range of biomedical applications. However, a consensus on effective light irradiation parameters and efficient and reliable measurement techniques remain limited. The objective here is to develop, characterise and demonstrate the application of LED arrays in order to progress and improve the effectiveness and accuracy of in vitro photobiomodulation studies.

96‐well plate format LED arrays (400–850 nm) were developed and characterised to accurately assess irradiance delivery to cell cultures. Human dental pulp cells (DPCs) were irradiated (3.5–142 mW/cm2: 15–120 s) and the biological responses were assessed using MTT assays.

Array calibration was confirmed using a range of optical and analytical techniques. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed biological responses were dependent on wavelength, exposure time and the post‐exposure assay time (P < 0.05). Increased MTT asbsorbance was measured 24 h post‐irradiation for 30 s exposures of 3.5 mW/cm2 at 470, 527, 631, 655, 680, 777, 798 and 826 nm with distinct peaks at 631 nm and 798 nm (P < 0.05). Similar wavelengths were also effective at higher irradiances (48–142 mW/cm2).

LED arrays and high throughput assays provide a robust and reliable platform to rapidly identify irradiation parameters which is both time‐ and cost‐effective. These arrrays are applicable in photobiomodulation, photodynamic therapy and other photobiomedical research.

magnified image
Evaluation of the 2‐(1‐Hexyloxyethyl)‐2‐devinyl pyropheophorbide (HPPH) mediated photodynamic therapy by macroscopic singlet oxygen modeling [J. Biophotonics 9, No. 11–12, 1344–1354 (2016)]
Authors: Penjweini Rozhin , Kim Michele M. , Liu Baochang , Zhu Timothy C.
Published: February 2017

In the article by R. Penjweini, M. M. Kim et al. (doi: 10.1002/jbio.201600121), published in J. Biophotonics 9, 1344–1354 (2016), the constants C01, C02, b1, and b2 determined from fitting the fluorescence single value decomposition (SVD) for phantoms with different optical properties and the corresponding Figure 2(a) are not correct. This erratum is published to correct the Section 2.3 and Figure 2(a).
Studying the effect of physically‐adsorbed coating polymers on the cytotoxic activity of optimized bisdemethoxycurcumin loaded‐PLGA nanoparticles
Authors: Mehanny Mina , Hathout Rania M. , Geneidi Ahmed S. , Mansour Samar
Published: February 2017

The aim of this work was to study the effect of different physically‐adsorbed coating polymers on the cytotoxic activity of optimized bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) loaded‐PLGA nanoparticles. BDMC‐loaded poly(DL‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles were prepared adopting the nanoprecipitation technique according to a full factorial study design. The effects of three independent variables each at two levels, namely: the polymer type, polymer concentration, and poly vinyl alcohol concentration were studied. The particles were optimized regarding particle size and entrapment efficiency where sizes <200 nm and entrapment efficiencies reaching ∼98% were obtained. The particles were further characterized using x‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and in‐vitro release studies. A selected formulation was subjected to physical coating using various coating moieties, namely: PEG 4000, Tween 80 and Pluronic F68, to impart a hydrophilic stealth character to the surface. The surface hydrophobicity was assessed using the Rose Bengal dye test where the hydrophilicity character followed the following order: Tween 80 > PEG 4000 > Pluronic F68. The particles coating rendered the particles suitable for cancer‐targeting regarding particle size measurements, morphology, release kinetics, and stability studies. Moreover, cytotoxicity testing was performed using HepG‐2 cells. Coated NPs showed the highest inhibition of malignant cells viability compared to the uncoated NPs and free BDMC where the IC50 of Pluronic‐F68 coated NPs was 0.54 ± 0.01 µg/mL. The augmented effect against malignant cells poses these particles as a successful cancer remedy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1433–1445, 2017.
Serum Phosphate Is Associated With Fracture Risk: The Rotterdam Study and MrOS
Authors: Campos‐Obando Natalia , Koek W Nadia H , Hooker Elizabeth R , van der Eerden Bram CJ , Pols Huibert A , Hofman Albert , van Leeuwen Johannes PTM , Uitterlinden Andre G , Nielson Carrie M , Zillikens M. Carola
Published: February 2017

Extreme phosphate levels (P) have been associated with mineralization defects and increased fracture risk. Whether P within normal range is related to bone health in the general population is not well understood. To investigate the association of P with bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk, we assessed two population‐based cohorts: the Dutch Rotterdam Study (RS‐I, RS‐II, RS‐III; n = 6791) and the US Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS; n = 5425) study. The relationship of P with lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN) BMD was tested in all cohorts via linear models; fracture risk was tested in RS‐I, RS‐II, and MrOS through Cox models, after follow‐up of 8.6, 6.6, and 10.9 years, respectively. Adjustments were made for age, body mass index, smoking, serum levels of calcium, potassium, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), FN‐BMD, prevalent diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Additional adjustments were made for phosphate intake, parathyroid hormone, and fibroblast growth factor 23 levels in MrOS. We further stratified by eGFR. Results were pooled through study‐level meta‐analyses. Hazard ratios (HR) and betas (β) (from meta‐analyses) are expressed per 1 mg/dL P increase. P was positively associated with fracture risk in men and women from RS, and findings were replicated in MrOS (pooled HR all [95% CI]: 1.47 [1.31–1.65]). P was associated with fracture risk in subjects without chronic kidney disease (CKD): all (1.44 [1.26–1.63]) and in men with CKD (1.93 [1.42–2.62]). P was inversely related to LS‐BMD in men (β: –0.06 [–0.11 to –0.02]) and not to FN‐BMD in either sex. In summary, serum P was positively related to fracture risk independently from BMD and phosphate intake after adjustments for potential confounders. P and LS‐BMD were negatively related in men. Our findings suggest that increased P levels even within normal range might be deleterious for bone health in the normal population. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Rapid, sensitive detection of bacteria in platelet samples with Fountain Flow Cytometry
Authors: Johnson Paul , Moriwaki Mika , Johnson Joseph
Published: February 2017

Background

There is a current need to develop a technique for bacterial screening of platelet donations that is more rapid, sensitive, and economical than alternatives. The objective of this research was to perform a pilot test of the viability of Fountain Flow Cytometry (FFC), for the rapid and sensitive detection of bacteria in platelet donations.

Methods

Platelet samples were inoculated with serial dilutions of five selected bacterial strains. Samples were then centrifuged, reconstituted in buffer, and stained with a live/dead bacterial stain cocktail. The resulting aqueous sample was measured by FFC, in which the sample passed as a stream in front of an LED, which excited the fluorescent labels. Fluorescence was detected with a digital camera as the sample flowed toward it.

Results

Fountain Flow Cytometry enumeration yielded results that were linear with bacterial concentration, having an R2 of ≥0.98 with a detection efficiency of 92%±3%. Measurements of uninoculated samples showed a false‐positive detection rate at ~400 colony forming units (CFU)/mL. Detection of bacterial concentrations in platelets above this threshold can be made in ~15 minutes, including sample preparation time.

Conclusion

This pilot study supports the efficacy of FFC for the rapid and sensitive screening of platelet donations for bacteria.
Laboratory diagnosis of Clostridium difficile infection: Comparison of Techlab C. diff Quik Chek Complete, Xpert C. difficile, and multistep algorithmic approach
Authors: Seo Ja Young , Jeong Ji Hun , Kim Kyung Hee , Ahn Jeong‐Yeal , Park Pil‐Whan , Seo Yiel‐Hea
Published: February 2017

Background

Clostridium difficile is a major pathogen responsible for nosocomial infectious diarrhea. We explored optimal laboratory strategies for diagnosis of C. difficile infection (CDI) in our clinical settings, a 1400‐bed tertiary care hospital.

Methods

Using 191 fresh stool samples from adult patients, we evaluated the performance of Xpert C. difficile (Xpert CD), C. diff Quik Chek Complete (which simultaneously detects glutamate dehydrogenase [GDH] and C. difficile toxins [CDT]), toxigenic culture, and a two‐step algorithm composed of GDH/CDT as a screening test and Xpert CD as a confirmatory test.

Results

Clostridium difficile was detected in 35 samples (18.3%), and all isolates were toxigenic strains. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value of each assay for detecting CDI were as follows: Quik Chek Complete CDT (45.7%, 100%, 100%, 89.1%), Quik Chek Complete GDH (97.1%, 99.4%, 97.1%, 99.4%), Xpert CD (94.3%, 100%, 100%, 98.7%), and toxigenic culture (91.4%, 100%, 100%, 98.1%). A two‐step algorithm performed identically with Xpert CD assay.

Conclusion

Our data showed that most C. difficile isolates from adult patients were toxigenic. We demonstrated that a two‐step algorithm based on GDH/CDT assay followed by Xpert CD assay as a confirmatory test was rapid, reliable, and cost effective for diagnosis of CDI in an adult patient setting with high prevalence of toxigenic C. difficile.
TESTING A THEORY OF SENSE OF COMMUNITY AND COMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY IN ORGANIZATIONS: AN EMPIRICAL ASSESSMENT OF PREDICTIVE CAPACITY ON EMPLOYEE WELL‐BEING AND ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP
Authors: Boyd Neil M. , Nowell Branda
Published: February 2017

This study attempts to advance our understanding of the experience of community in organizational settings by empirically testing a theory of sense of community responsibility (SOC‐R) in relation to traditional measures of sense of community [SOC] on outcomes of employee well‐being and organizational citizenship. Findings support the notion that SOC is a better predictor of employee well‐being, while SOC‐R more strongly predicts organizational citizenship behavior. The findings add new knowledge to the literature on the experience of community in organizations, as well as representing an important contribution to our understanding of the factors that drive employee action and well‐being at work.
SELF‐CONTROL AND ADOLESCENT INTERNALIZING AND EXTERNALIZING PROBLEMS: NEIGHBORHOOD‐BASED DIFFERENCES
Authors: McDermott Elana R. , Donlan Alice E. , Anderson Sara , Zaff Jonathan F.
Published: February 2017

Self‐control may act as a protective factor against the development of internalizing and externalizing problems among adolescents. However, little research has examined how self‐control functions within and across different types of communities. Using two cohorts from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (N = 1,072; 51.40% female), we examined how self‐control and neighborhood characteristics were independently and jointly associated with these behaviors. Using latent profile analysis, we categorized neighborhoods based on several characteristics known to be associated with youth outcomes, including violence, concentrated disadvantage, and collective efficacy. Then we examined how self‐control was associated with youth internalizing and externalizing problems within and across neighborhoods. Results suggest that self‐control was a protective feature in only some types of disadvantaged and dangerous neighborhoods. We discuss findings in terms of implications for programs and policies to support youth mental health.
Emerging roles of ER stress and unfolded protein response pathways in skeletal muscle health and disease
Authors: Bohnert Kyle R. , McMillan Joseph D. , Kumar Ashok
Published: February 2017

Skeletal muscle is the most abundant tissue in the human body and can adapt its mass as a consequence of physical activity, metabolism, growth factors, and disease conditions. Skeletal muscle contains an extensive network of endoplasmic reticulum (ER), called sarcoplasmic reticulum, which plays an important role in the regulation of proteostasis and calcium homeostasis. In many cell types, environmental and genetic factors that disrupt ER function cause an accumulation of misfolded and unfolded proteins in the ER lumen that ultimately leads to ER stress. To alleviate the stress and restore homeostasis, the ER activates a signaling network called the unfolded protein response (UPR). The UPR has three arms, which regulate protein synthesis and expression of many ER chaperone and regulatory proteins. However, the role of individual UPR pathways in skeletal muscle has just begun to be investigated. Recent studies suggest that UPR pathways play pivotal roles in muscle stem cell homeostasis, myogenic differentiation, and regeneration of injured skeletal muscle. Moreover, markers of ER stress and the UPR are activated in skeletal muscle in diverse conditions such as exercise, denervation, starvation, high fat diet, cancer cachexia, and aging. Accumulating evidence also suggests that ER stress may have important roles in the pathogenesis of inflammatory myopathies and genetic muscle disorders. The purpose of this review article is to discuss the role and potential mechanisms by which ER stress and the individual arms of the UPR regulate skeletal muscle formation, plasticity, and function in various physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
Water recovery from brines and salt‐saturated solutions: operability and thermodynamic efficiency considerations for desalination technologies
Authors: Vane Leland M
Published: February 2017

This review provides an overview of desalination technologies and discusses the thermodynamic efficiencies and operational issues associated with the various technologies particularly with regard to high salinity streams. When water is recovered from a saline source, a brine concentrate stream is produced. Management of the brine stream can be problematic, particularly in inland regions. An alternative to brine disposal is recovery of water and possibly salts from the concentrate. Due to the high osmotic pressures of the brine concentrates, reverse osmosis, the most common desalination technology, is impractical. Mechanical vapor compression which, like reverse osmosis, utilizes mechanical work to operate, is reported to have the highest thermodynamic efficiency of the desalination technologies for treatment of salt‐saturated brines. Thermally‐driven processes, such as flash evaporation and distillation, are technically able to process saturated salt solutions, but suffer from low thermodynamic efficiencies. This inefficiency could be offset if an inexpensive source of waste or renewable heat could be used. Overarching issues posed by high salinity solutions include corrosion and the formation of scales/precipitates. These issues limit the materials, conditions, and unit operation designs that can be used. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A kinetics study on anammox bacteria with a disproportionate substrate concentration
Authors: Qiao Liang , Ning Xiaofang , Li Yan , Zhang Yanqiu
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Anaerobic ammonia oxidation, or anammox, is one of the most efficient techniques to dispose of sewage ammonia nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen within a reactor. Kinetics equations of anammox have been studied under proportions of ammonia nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen in the laboratory, however, in wastewater treatment, the reaction conditions are variable and unstable.

RESULTS

Two strains of anammox bacteria, Candidatus Brocadia fulgida and Candidatus Brocadia caroliniensis, were identified by PCR and assigned the formal bacterial serial numbers: KR005667 and KR005668, respectively. The degradation curves of the two anammox bacteria were drawn by calculating the kinetics parameters using the Michaelis–Menten equation, and the ammonia oxidation rates, nitrite conversion rates and Km values of ammonia and nitrite were close to or identical to the known data range of the kinetics of anammox bacteria metabolism.

CONCLUSION

A hypothesis regarding the role of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) was proposed and the reaction mechanism of anammox bacteria was deduced in the case of a disproportionate substrate concentration. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Spatio‐temporal variation of dryness/wetness across the Pearl River basin, China, and relation to climate indices
Authors: Huang Chong , Zhang Qiang , Singh Vijay P. , Gu Xihui , Shi Peijun
Published: February 2017

ABSTRACT

Correlations between wet/dry variations and El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO), North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) across the Pearl River basin were analysed at annual and seasonal time scales using the Pearson correlation and moving correlation coefficient. The basin was divided into homogeneous climate zones using the fuzzy C‐means method. The influences of ENSO, NAO, IOD, and PDO on annual and seasonal wet/dry variations and impacts of warm and cold episodes of these indices on Standardized Precipitation Index‐based dry and wet conditions were investigated. Furthermore, the mechanisms of the influences were tried to be analysed from the perspective of moisture transmission. The results indicated that: (1) IOD, NAO, and ENSO are the principle factors driving annual, wet, and dry seasonal precipitation variations, respectively. Moreover, opposite correlations can be identified between precipitation and IOD, NAO, and ENSO in the same/previous year; (2) Correlations between precipitation variations at different time scales and climate indices are strongly stable. Furthermore, climate indices tend to have more significant and stable impacts on precipitation variations during the dry season than on annual precipitation and precipitation variations during the wet season; (3) There exist different moisture convergence and divergence phenomena in the Pearl River basin under anomalous year of climate indices, so the annual, wet, and dry seasonal precipitation characteristic will be affected; (4) ENSO exhibits remarkable impacts on the variations of dry conditions; and meanwhile ENSO and IOD have significant impacts on the variations of wet conditions. In general, the cold phase of climate indices tends to trigger a higher risk of droughts, and the warm phase of climate indices tends to cause higher rates of extreme wet conditions. Taking different climate indices as predictors, this study may help forecast precipitation variations at different time scales.
Raman study of HoFe3(BO3)4 at simultaneously high pressure and high temperature: p–T phase diagram
Authors: Krylov A. S. , Gudim I. A. , Nemtsev I. , Krylova S. N. , Shabanov A. V. , Krylov A. A.
Published: February 2017

Raman spectra of a HoFe3(BO3)4 crystal chip has been investigated at simultaneously high temperature and high pressure (up to 7.1 GPa and 560 K). On the basis of Raman analysis, the assignment to one of the two possible crystal phases has been made. The experimental p–T phase diagram of HoFe3(BO3)4 was established. An increase in the pressure leads to an increase in the temperature of transition. The phase boundary equation was obtained. Neither triple points nor a phase with new symmetry was revealed in the phase diagram. A critical point with the temperature T = 560 K and the pressure p = 2.53 GPa was found. The nanocrystals with different shapes began to grow on crystal surface after reaching that point. The composition of new nanocrystals is identical to the composition of initial crystal. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and tribological properties of the N‐containing heterocyclic borate esters and Cu microparticles as lubricant additives in base oil
Authors: Qu Mengnan , Yao Yali , He Jinmei , Ma Xuerui , Liu Shanshan , Feng Juan , Hou Lingang
Published: February 2017

In this paper, four kinds of N‐containing heterocyclic borate esters and polyvinyl pyrrolidone‐protected Cu microparticles were synthesised and characterised. Their tribological properties as lubricant additives in industrial white oil were evaluated using a four‐ball tribometer, and their lubrication mechanisms were investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that the anti‐friction and anti‐wear performance of the base oil can be significantly improved by the addition of N‐containing borate esters and Cu microparticles, and they present synergistic tribological effect. Moreover, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results showed a lubricating tribochemical reaction film containing B2O3, FeB, FeO, Fe2O3 and so on is formed on the worn surface. In addition, Cu microparticles as rolling bearings, which transform sliding friction to rolling sliding and the formation of the Cu microparticles deposited film, are probably responsible for the improvement of tribological performance. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimizing the cathodic protection system of pipeline under simulating thermocline environment in deep water by finite element method
Authors: Li C. J. , Du M.
Published: February 2017

A physical model has been established previously to simulate the cathodic protection (CP) system of pipeline passing through the thermocline environment in deep water and the cathodic potential distribution was numerically calculated by finite element method (FEM), which has been verified by laboratory results. In order to extend the application of the numerical model to CP design and optimization, new various situations of anode placement, such as different number and positions, were simulated by the same model. The potential distributions on the pipeline surface and also in the whole domain of the physical model were predicted to evaluate the sacrificial anode throwing power in the heterogeneous environment. The optimum anode positions were determined for different anode number. The results showed that the anode number and also the positions had a significant influence on the potential distributions.
An intact acrosome is required for the chemotactic response to progesterone in mouse spermatozoa
Authors: Guidobaldi Hector A. , Hirohashi Noritaka , Cubilla Marisa , Buffone Mariano G. , Giojalas Laura C.
Published: February 2017

Mammalian sperm become fertilization‐competent in the oviduct, during a process known as capacitation that involves the acquisition of the ability to exocytose the acrosome but also the chemotactic responses—both of which contribute to successful fertilization. Chemotaxis is used by spermatozoa to orient and to locate the egg; the acrosome reaction facilitates sperm binding to and fusing with the egg membrane. Mammalian spermatozoa are able to sense picomolar concentrations of progesterone, which drives chemotactic behavior. The state of the acrosome during the chemotactic response, however, is unknown. Genetically modified mouse spermatozoa were employed in a chemotaxis assay under fluorescence microscopy to evaluate their acrosome status while swimming, allowing us to elucidate the acrosome integrity of sperm responding to progesterone‐induced chemotaxis. We first showed that wild‐type mouse spermatozoa chemotactically respond to a gradient of progesterone, and that the genetic modifications employed do not affect the chemotactic behavior of sperm to progesterone. Next, we found that acrosome‐intact, but not acrosome‐reacted, spermatozoa orient and respond to picomolar concentrations of progesterone and that chemotaxis normally occurs prior to the acrosome reaction. Our results suggest that premature commitment to acrosome exocytosis leads to navigation failure, so proper control and timing of the acrosome reaction is required for fertilization success and male fertility.
Ultralow‐field and spin‐locking relaxation dispersion in postmortem pig brain
Authors: Dong Hui , Hwang Seong‐min , Wendland Michael , You Lixing , Clarke John , Inglis Ben
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate tissue‐specific differences, a quantitative comparison was made between relaxation dispersion in postmortem pig brain measured at ultralow fields (ULF) and spin locking at 7 tesla (T). The goal was to determine whether ULF‐MRI has potential advantages for in vivo human brain imaging.

Methods

Separate specimens of gray matter and white matter were investigated using an ULF‐MRI system with superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) signal detection to measure
at fields from 58.7 to 235.0 μT and using a commercial MRI scanner to measure
at spin‐locking fields from 5.0 to 235.0 μT.

Results

At matched field strengths,
is 50 to 100% longer than
. Furthermore, dispersion in
is close to linear between 58.7 and 235 µT, whereas dispersion in
is highly nonlinear over the same range. A subtle elbow in the
dispersion at approximately 140 µT is tentatively attributed to the local dipolar field of macromolecules. It is suggested that different relaxation mechanisms dominate each method and that ULF‐MRI has a fundamentally different sensitivity to the macromolecular structure of neural tissue.

Conclusions

Ultralow‐field MRI may offer distinct, quantitative advantages for human brain imaging, while simultaneously avoiding the severe heating limitation imposed on high‐field spin locking. Magn Reson Med 78:2342–2351, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Geometrically nonlinear quadratic solid/solid‐shell element based on consistent corotational approach for structural analysis under prescribed motion
Authors: Cho Haeseong , Shin SangJoon , Yoh Jack J.
Published: February 2017

This study proposed geometrically nonlinear quadratic solid/solid‐shell elements applicable for moving structures. Coordinates in the corotational (CR) formulation were established for a solid element. The proposed CR formulation was consistent with other hexahedral or tetrahedral solid type finite elements. The study involved an explicit description of relevant quantities induced during the derivation. Centrifugal and inertial terms were derived to analyze the behavior of moving structures. The formulation derived in the study was applicable for various solid type elements. Thus, an assumed‐strain 18‐node solid‐shell element was developed based on the Hellinger–Reissner principle to avoid locking in the local element. In addition, quadratic solid elements (i.e., a 10‐node tetrahedron and a 20‐node hexahedron) were developed in the CR solid formulation. Finally, the results were compared with those derived by previous researches involving typical static benchmark problems and commercial software. The findings indicated a good agreement between the comparisons and validated the proposed finite elements. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The vertex solution theorem and its coupled framework for static analysis of structures with interval parameters
Authors: Qiu Zhiping , Lv Zheng
Published: February 2017

This work gives new statement of the vertex solution theorem for exact bounds of the solution to linear interval equations and its novel proof by virtue of the convex set theory. The core idea of the theorem is to transform linear interval equations into a series of equivalent deterministic linear equations. Then, the important theorem is extended to find the upper and lower bounds of static displacements of structures with interval parameters. Following discussions about the computational efforts, a coupled framework based on vertex method (VM) is established, which allows us to solve many large‐scale engineering problems with uncertainties using deterministic finite element software. Compared with the previous works, the contribution of this work is not only to obtain the exact bounds of static displacements but also lay the foundation for development of an easy‐to‐use interval finite element software. Numerical examples demonstrate the good accuracy of VM. Meanwhile, the implementation of VM and availability of the coupled framework are demonstrated by engineering example. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Civil Society Organizations in a Post‐Aid World: New Trends and Observations from the Andean Region
Authors: Appe Susan
Published: February 2017

The objective of this article is to outline approaches taken by civil society organizations (CSOs) in order to advance their work in social development given the changes in the aid architecture. It focuses on the Latin American region, particularly Andean countries, but many of the challenges and opportunities in a “post‐aid world” are insights that might prove helpful to other regions as well. The article provides a comprehensive outline of approaches that CSOs are taking given the changes in aid grouped into three categories: aid models, organizational considerations and revenue sources and modes of fundraising. Many of these have been in practice for sometime but might need to be more strategically used as CSOs manage the changing contexts. CSOs in Latin America and the Andes are considering a multitude of options, and while the approaches considered in the article are not an exhaustive list, they provide an overview of viable directions, which might positively influence CSOs' sustainability and continued provision and promotion of a myriad of public goods and services. The article ends with observations about aid shifts and its implications for CSOs and social development more broadly. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of surface chemical modification for aluminum hypophosphite with hexa‐(4‐aldehyde‐phenoxy)‐cyclotriphosphazene on the fire retardancy, water resistance, and thermal properties for polyamide 6
Authors: Xu Miao‐Jun , Liu Chuan , Ma Kun , Leng Yang , Li Bin
Published: February 2017

The surface chemical modified aluminum hypophosphite (AHP) defined as MAHP was successful prepared through P–H bonds on AHP surface reacted with the aldehyde groups in hexa‐(4‐aldehyde‐phenoxy)‐cyclotriphosphazene made in our lab. The wettability of the flame retardants was evaluated by water contact angle tests, and the water contact angle of the prepared MAHP dramatically increased from 0° for AHP to 145°, which indicated the surface modification made the superhydrophilic AHP into superior hydrophobic MAHP. The prepared MAHP and AHP, respectively, incorporated into polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix to prepare flame retardant PA6 composites and the fire retardancy and thermal degradation behavior of flame retardant PA6 composites were investigated by limiting oxygen index, vertical burning test (UL‐94), cone calorimeter, and thermogravimetric analysis tests. The morphologies and chemical compositions of the char residues for PA6 composites were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, respectively. The water resistant properties of flame retardant PA6 composites were evaluated by putting the samples into distilled water at 70°C for 168 hr, and the mechanical properties for flame retardant PA6 composites were investigated by the tensile, flexural, and Izod impact strength tests. The results demonstrated that the PA6/MAHP composites successfully passed UL‐94 V‐0 flammability rating, and the limiting oxygen index value was 27.6% when the loading amount of MAHP was 21 wt%. However, there is no rating in vertical burning tests for PA6/AHP composite with the same amount of AHP, which indicated the surface modification of AHP enhanced the flame retardancy efficiency for PA6 composites. The morphological structures and analysis of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy of char residues revealed that the surface modification of AHP benefited to the formation of a sufficient, flame retardant elements rich, more compact and homogeneous char layer on the materials surface during combustion, which prevented the heat transmission and diffusion, limit the production of combustible gases, inhibit the emission of smoke and then led to the reduction of the heat release rate and smoke produce rate. The mechanical properties results revealed that the surface modification of AHP enhanced the mechanical properties, especially the Izod impact strength comparing with that of PA6/AHP composites with the same amount of flame retardant. After water resistance tests, the PA6/MAHP composites remained superior flame retardancy and presented continuous and compact char layer after cone calorimeter tests; however, the fire retardancy for PA6/AHP composite obviously decreased, and the char layer was discontinuous with big hole caused by the extraction of AHP by water during water resistance tests. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of chitosan–silica/PCL composite membrane as wound dressing with enhanced cell attachment
Authors: Zirak Hassan Kiadeh Shahrzad , Ghaee Azadeh , Mashak Arezou , Mohammadnejad Javad
Published: February 2017

In the present study, the asymmetrical polycaprolactone membranes were synthesized using phase inversion method and modified by addition of Pluronic (F‐127) and sodium hydroxide treatment to improve the cell attachment. The chemical structure, physical properties and mechanical behavior of the membranes as well as cell attachment and proliferation on them were characterized and compared to determine the appropriate membrane used in wound dressing fabrication. Then, a composite membrane as wound dressing capable of drug controlled‐release was prepared composed of two merged layers: an asymmetrical poly(ε‐caprolactone) layer coated with a drug‐loaded chitosan–silica matrix. Drug release behavior and biocompatibility of the final system were evaluated. The results showed that the polycaprolactone modified membrane provides appropriate properties to expand fibroblast cell adhesion and proliferation. Thisin‐vitrostudy also showed that the controlled‐release composite wound dressing was developed with approximately 70% cumulative release rate, which provided a porous substrate to support skin cells. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Childhood neoplasms presenting at autopsy: A 20‐year experience
Authors: Bryant Victoria A. , Booth John , Palm Liina , Ashworth Michael , Jacques Thomas S. , Sebire Neil J.
Published: February 2017

Objective

The aims of the review are to establish the number of undiagnosed neoplasms presenting at autopsy in a single centre and to determine the incidence and most common causes of sudden unexpected death due to neoplasia in infancy and childhood (SUDNIC).

Design

Retrospective observational study of paediatric autopsies performed on behalf of Her Majesty's Coroner over a 20‐year period (1996–2015; n = 2,432). Neoplasms first diagnosed at autopsy were identified from an established database and cases meeting the criteria for sudden unexpected death were further categorised.

Results

Thirteen previously undiagnosed neoplasms were identified, including five haematological malignancies, two medulloblastomas, two neuroblastomas, two cardiac tumours and two malignancies of renal origin. Eight cases met the criteria for SUDNIC (0.33% of autopsies), the commonest group of which were haematological malignancies (n = 3).

Conclusions

Neoplasms presenting as unexpected death in infancy and childhood and diagnosed at autopsy are rare. The findings suggest that haematological malignancies are the commonest cause of SUDNIC and highlight the importance of specialist autopsy in cases of sudden unexpected death.
Influence of graphene oxide and graphene nanosheet on the properties of polyvinylidene fluoride nanocomposites
Authors: Raji Marya , Essabir Hamid , Rodrigue Denis , Bouhfid Rachid , Qaiss Abou el kacem
Published: February 2017

In this study, graphene oxide (GO) and graphene nanosheets (GN) were prepared using natural graphite as a reinforcing agent, and different filler contents (1, 2, 3, and 4 wt%) were used to produce nanocomposites based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). In particular, a melt‐blending method was used as a 10 wt% masterbatch was prepared and then diluted to get the final samples via compression molding. A complete characterization in terms of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed that GO and GN were of high structural quality. Then, the nanocomposites were characterized in terms of thermal, rheological, electrical, and mechanical performances. The thermal stability of neat PVDF (400°C) was found to increase with both fillers addition reaching at 3 wt% 445 and 463°C for GO and GN, respectively. For the same concentration, the PVDF Young's modulus was found to increase by 32% for GN, while only a 7% gain was observed for GO. Similarly, the rheological and electrical resistivity results showed that GN was more effective than GO in improving the performances of these nanocomposites, with an optimum ∼3 wt% for the conditions tested. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2932–2941, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
A comparative analysis of physico‐mechanical, water absorption, and morphological behaviour of surface modified woven jute fiber composites
Authors: Swain Priyadarshi Tapas Ranjan , Biswas Sandhyarani
Published: February 2017

During the last few decades, some ecological concerns have resulted in an improved interest in the natural fiber reinforced polymer composites because of their low cost, low density, lightweight, nontoxic, combustible, biodegradable, and high specific mechanical properties. Among various natural fibers, jute has been widely used for various applications due to its advantages. Currently, jute fiber based composites are mostly used in door panels, automotive parts, household goods, agriculture, and horticulture. Chemical treatments are able to induce fiber modifications that increase their resistance when utilized in composite products. The objective of the present research work is to study the physical, mechanical, and water absorption behaviour of jute fiber reinforced by epoxy composites with and without fiber treatment. A series of composites with different fiber content (10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) is fabricated using a simple hand layup technique. Jute fibers were subjected to chemical modification namely, mercerization (alkali treatment) and benzoylation (benzoyl chloride treatment) to improve the interfacial bonding with the matrix. A comparison has been made between the untreated composites and treated composites. Finally, the surface morphology of fractured surfaces after tensile testing is also examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Experimental results show the significant improvement in mechanical properties for treated fiber composites. As far as the comparison of alkali treatment and benzoyl chloride treatment, the benzoylated jute fiber based composites show the better properties. Improvement in the water absorption resistance has also been recorded for the treated fiber composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2952–2960, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Enhancement of interface performance between shape memory alloy fiber and polymer matrix using silane coupling agent KH550 and Al2O3 nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Zhenqing , Liu Yanfei , Lv Hongqing , Yang Bin
Published: February 2017

The interface performance of nickel‐titanium (Ni‐Ti) shape memory alloy (SMA) fiber reinforced vinyl ester resin composites was investigated in this work. All the SMA fibers were pre‐treated with H2SO4 and NaOH solution. The fiber surfaces were coated with Al2O3 nanoparticles and silane coupling agent KH550. For comparison, two groups of SMA fibers were coated only with the silane coupling agent or the nanoparticles. Furthermore, the effect of the nanoparticle content on the interface performance of the composites was investigated for Al2O3 nanoparticle contents ranging from 1 wt% to 4 wt%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to study the effect of the surface modifications. The results demonstrate that all the modified methods enhance the interface strength of the SMA/vinyl ester resin, but samples with SMA fibers coated with both the silane coupling agent and 3 wt% Al2O3 nanoparticles have the best interface performance. SEM observations show that the dispersion of nanoparticles increases when the silane coupling agent is added to the composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3040–3047, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
A prospective study on first trimester prediction of ischemic placental diseases
Authors: Nuriyeva Gulnar , Kose Semir , Tuna Gamze , Kant Melis , Akis Merve , Altunyurt Sabahattin , Islekel Gül Huray , Dogan Omer Erbil
Published: February 2017

Objective

The objective of the study is to assess the predictive power of mean uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA PI), maternal serum placental growth factor (PlGF) and placenta associated plasma protein A levels for the development of ischemic placental diseases (IPD) in a cohort of unselected singleton pregnancies during the first trimester combined test period.

Materials and Methods

A sample of 880 pregnancies was registered between September 2014 and January 2016. After routine examination for first trimester combined test, UtA PI was measured, and maternal serum was obtained and stored at −80 °C for PlGF assessment.

Results

Early‐onset preeclampsia, late‐onset preeclampsia and placental dysfunction‐related fetal growth restriction were observed in 6 (0.7%), 17 (2.0%) and 27 (3.2%) cases, respectively. IPD requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation could be predicted with a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 76.2%, 90.2%, 20.2% and 99.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

A combination of UtA PI, placenta associated plasma protein A and PlGF was proven to be successful in the first trimester prediction of IPD, with the highest sensitivity in the subgroup who required delivery before 34 weeks of gestation. In reducing the number of pregnancies that should be followed‐up, further studies for new biomarkers are needed. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.