bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Exclusive Breastfeeding at 4 Months Postpartum in a Sample of Urban Hispanic Mothers in Kentucky
Authors: Linares Ana Maria , Rayens Mary K. , Dozier Ann , Wiggins Amanda , Dignan Mark B.
Published: January 2015

Background:

Although Hispanic mothers in the United States have slightly higher rates of breastfeeding initiation than the national average, they are more likely to supplement with formula.

Objectives:

To describe infant feeding decisions in a sample of 72 urban Hispanic mothers and assess whether demographic and personal factors influence exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) status at 4 months postpartum.

Methods:

The study was longitudinal and included assessments during pregnancy, in the hospital following childbirth, and monthly up to 4 months following birth.

Results:

Nearly all of the 72 mothers were breastfeeding at discharge after the birth of their infant (94%); half of these were EBF. By 2 months postpartum, the rate of EBF had declined to 26%, dropping to 22% by 4 months. Significant predictors of EBF status at 4 months included the baseline indicator for mother’s partner as the most important person in life (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 5.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-28.66) and breastfeeding self-efficacy score at 1 month (AOR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.07-1.34).

Conclusion:

These findings have particular relevance in this population, given the high rate of breastfeeding initiation coupled with breastfeeding self-efficacy being a modifiable factor. Support during pregnancy and postpartum, including consultation with a lactation consultant, may increase the self-efficacy of EBF in this low-income population, leading to higher rates of extended EBF among Hispanics.
Effect of long time exposure on the chemical and physical properties of polyvinyl chloride/titanium dioxide nanocomposites
Authors: Mehmandoust Shadi Ghaebi , Sokhandani Parvane , Abdi Mohammad Adel , Babaluo Ali Akbar , Alizadeh Reza
Published: January 2015

The photodegradation behavior of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) nanocomposites containing different amounts of synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles and commercial rutile powder is investigated via the formation of carbonyl compounds, peroxides, and polyenes propagation over 5112 h exposure, as a function of irradiation wavelength and intensity. All the PVC/TiO2 nanocomposites are found to exhibit lower concentration of mentioned species compared with the composite samples. The results show that added TiO2 nanoparticles can retard the photodegradation processes, wherein increasing the amounts of these nanoparticles yields more reduction. With an increase in irradiation intensity the rate of formation of investigated groups increases, although in cases with raised temperature range, this pattern is not observed. An evaluation on the irradiation wavelength effect also shows that more photon energy provides more degradation. The loss of weight analysis shows a tremendous and novel result on evaluating a point of meaningful weight loss.
Resistivity optimization and properties of silver nanoparticles-filled alcohol-soluble conductive coating based on acrylic resin
Authors: Hu Kai , Kong Weibo , Fu Xiaowei , Zhou Changlin , Lei Jingxin
Published: January 2015

An alcohol-soluble acrylic resin used to improve the dispersity of modified silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was successfully synthesized. The structure of acrylic resin was designated according to the elements and groups on the surface of modified AgNPs. The content of γ-(2,3-epoxypropoxy)propytrimethoxysilane (KH-560) and conductive filler, temperature, mechanical properties, anticorrosion, and so on were investigated in order to optimize the electrical conductivity and dispersion of modified AgNPs in coating. Surface chemical structure of modified AgNPs was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Morphology of conductive coating was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Groups in modified AgNPs and acrylic resin were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. And surface resistivity of conductive coating was characterized by digital multimeter techniques. The optimum surface resistivity of the acquired AgNPs conductive coating could be up to 0.01 ohm/sq, reaching the level of electromagnetic interference shielding. Moreover, the conductive coating possesses good property of anti-chemical and weather corrosion resistance.
Preparation and characterization of poly (phenylene sulfide) nanocomposites with both silica and clay fillers
Authors: Yang Yaqi , Duan Hongji , Wang Xiaojun , Liu Yaqing , Yang Jie
Published: January 2015

Poly (phenylene sulfide) (PPS)/silica (SiO2)/organophilic montmorillonite OMMT(clay) nanocomposites are prepared and two kinds of nanofillers of different dimensions, the plate-like OMMT(clay) and globe-like SiO2, are dispersed through their “filler–filler” interaction in melt processing. In PPS/SiO2/clay system, strong filler–filler interaction is established by different responses to shear flow of inorganic clay and SiO2, thus the well dispersion of nanofillers is achieved successfully. However, the OMMT platelets are prone to be entangled by PPS molecular chains in PPS/SiO2/OMMT composites due to the extremely low interfacial tension between PPS and OMMT, which blocks the interaction between OMMT and SiO2. The result reveals two key points in realizing well dispersion of nanofillers in polymer by establishing filler–filler interaction in processing, namely, the distinct responses to shear flow of nanofillers provide an important condition for filler–filler interaction, while the direct collision between each other is another key point to successfully realize this interaction.
Analysis of warping during flat rolling of bimetallic slabs
Authors: Lee CH , Park JP , Tyne CV , Moon YH
Published: January 2015

The current study analyzes the warping behavior of bimetallic slabs during the flat rolling process. An analytical model that predicts the degree of warping during the rolling of bimetallic slabs is developed, based on differential bending, which occurs due to the mismatch in longitudinal elongation. The warping model focuses on the mismatch of the lengthwise elongation, due to differences in the deformation resistances of constituent materials in the bimetallic slab. With this analytical model, warping can be predicted for various processing parameters, such as initial thickness ratios and rolling reductions. To validate the model, flat rolling experiments using Al1050/Al6061 bimetallic slabs, produced by continuous clad casting, were conducted. The deformation characteristics of the bimetallic slabs during rolling were also assessed by a finite element analysis using the commercial code, FORGE™. The results from the current study show that the warping behavior of bimetallic slabs during flat rolling can be characterized with a high degree of reliability.
An aggregated climate teleconnection index linked to historical Egyptian famines of the last thousand years
Authors: Santoro Michael M , Hassan Fekri A , Wahab MM Abdel , Cerveny Randall S , Balling Robert C
Published: January 2015

Variations in the Nile River water level have been historically associated with social development of the Egyptian civilization, particularly through times of famine. In addition, the Nile River water levels have been strongly linked to variations in climate teleconnections, specifically El Niño/Southern Oscillation, the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation. In this paper, we demonstrate that the cumulative effects of these three teleconnections link strongly to the occurrence of famine in Egypt. To create a cumulative response, we employed a principal component analysis (PCA) of the reconstructions of these three climate teleconnections that yielded a composite accounting for 61% of the total variance in the three datasets. We compared that analysis to a new compilation of drought and famine in Egypt. Analysis reveals 8 of 10 major famines in Egypt over the last thousand years correspond to low points or downward movements in a detrended composite eigenvector of the three major climate teleconnections discussed. This Southern Oscillation Index–NAO (SOI-NAO) eigenvector has a statistically significant discrimination between the occurrence of famine and non-occurrence of famine ( t = 2.56; p = 0.013). Additionally, the composite climate eigenvector correctly identifies 50 out of 80 events (63%) of lesser incident years mentioned in other Arabic texts. While this climate composite teleconnection analysis alone does not explain all famine events in Egypt over the last thousand years, the relative strength of linkage suggests that potential exists to account for even older (e.g. Egyptian Empire) famines as climate reconstructions extending further back in time become available.
A deadly cocktail: How a drought around 4200 cal. yr BP caused mass mortality events at the infamous ‘dodo swamp’ in Mauritius
Authors: de Boer Erik J , Vélez Maria I , Rijsdijk Kenneth F , de Louw Perry GB , Vernimmen Tamara JJ , Visser Petra M , Tjallingii Rik , Hooghiemstra Henry
Published: January 2015

Analyses of pollen, diatoms, XRF geochemistry, and pigments provide a unique window into how an insular ecosystem in Mauritius responded to an extreme drought event 4200 years ago. We provide a reconstruction of regional vegetation change and local wetland development under influence of sea level rise and inferred climate change between 4400 and 4100 cal. yr BP. Our multi-proxy data evidence a severe drought between 4190 and 4130 cal. yr BP, which ultimately led to mass mortality of larger vertebrates, including two species of giant tortoises and dodos in a <2-ha region. This prolonged drought around the Indian Ocean is recorded in many regions dependent on monsoon precipitation and is suggested to cause the collapse of human societies in East Africa and India. We demonstrate a direct relation between the mass mortality events in the Mare aux Songes (MAS) rock valley and the 4200 cal. yr BP drought. MAS represents a fresh water source that attracted and concentrated vertebrates. Abrupt increased aridity induced regional fires on Mauritius and caused decreased water levels, and a shrinking water surface resulting in further concentration of the animals in this coastal site. Upconing of the saline wedge underlying the fresh water source induced progressive salinization. The excrements of the animals produced hypertrophic conditions that, combined with salinization and high temperatures, created a suitable environment for potentially toxic cyanobacteria. These factors led to a deadly cocktail, resulting in the death of 100,000s of vertebrates by intoxication, dehydration, trampling, and miring, and promoted a unique conservation of fossils. The ‘4.2 ka megadrought’ likely induced similar bottlenecks elsewhere in the SW Indian Ocean region.
Decreased diffusion capacity on lung function testing in asymptomatic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus does not predict future lung disease
Authors: Elalouf O , Fireman E , Levartovsky D , Kaufman I , Rogovski O , Elkayam O , Caspi D , Paran D
Published: January 2015

Background

In a previous study performed 9 ± 3.6 years ago, 74 asymptomatic patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and/or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) underwent lung function testing. A significantly low diffusion capacity (DLCO) ranging from 45% to 70% was recorded in 28 of the 74 (37.8%) patients who were all free of respiratory symptoms.

Aim

The aim of this report is to assess the clinical importance and the predictive value of a low DLCO in asymptomatic patients with SLE or APS.

Methods

Asymptomatic patients with SLE and/or APS who were found to have a low DLCO in the previous study were contacted. Of the 28 patients, 15 were recruited and reevaluated in the current study (SLE with APS ( n = 7), SLE without APS ( n = 7); primary APS ( n = 1)). A full history, physical examination, nail bed capillaroscopy, current laboratory tests and full lung function tests including DLCO were performed.

Results

During a surveillance period of 9 ± 3.6 years, none of the patients developed lung disease. Diffusion capacity corrected for alveolar volume (DLCO/VA) improved in the study group during this period from 60.4% ± 7.0 to 76.1% ± 11.2 ( p < 0.0001). Lung function tests including total lung capacity (TLC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) remained within normal limits. Capillaroscopy studies did not reveal changes compatible with scleroderma in any of the patients.

Conclusion

Low DLCO findings on lung function testing does not have a positive predictive value for the development of future lung disease in patients with SLE, with or without APS, who are free of respiratory symptoms. Our results suggest that a finding of low DLCO in asymptomatic patients with SLE, with or without APS, does not necessarily require further evaluation and imaging and may improve spontaneously over time. Further studies in a larger group of patients are needed to validate these findings.
Developing a Culturally Sensitive Lifestyle Behavior Change Program for Older Latinas
Authors: Schwingel Andiara , Linares Deborah E. , Gálvez Patricia , Adamson Brynn , Aguayo Liliana , Bobitt Julie , Castañeda Yvette , Sebastião Emerson , Marquez David X.
Published: January 2015

Despite the burgeoning U.S. Latino population and their increased risk of chronic disease, little emphasis had been placed on developing culturally sensitive lifestyle interventions in this area. This article examines older Latinas’ sociocultural context relative to health with the goal of developing a culturally sensitive health behavior intervention. Photo-elicitation indicated two emerging themes that influenced lifestyle choices: family caregiving and religion. Researchers partnered with a faith-based organization to develop and implement a 6-month lifestyle intervention for Latinas ages 50 and older: Abuelas en Acción (AEA). At completion, interviews were conducted to understand women’s experiences and the influence AEA had on their lifestyles and health. Findings suggest that religious content empowered and deeply affected women; however, the intergenerational content presented significant challenges for instruction, retention, and implementation. We discuss findings in relation to the health intervention literature and provide suggestions for future interventions drawing on religion, family, and health behavior change.
Moving load-induced response of damaged beam and its application in damage localization
Authors: He Wen-Yu , Zhu Songye
Published: January 2015

The dynamic response of a beam under a moving load is a superposition of two components, namely, the moving-frequency component corresponding to the moving load and the natural-frequency component of the beam. This study investigates the closed-form solution of the dynamic response of a damaged simply supported beam subjected to a moving load and examines the effects of the loss of local stiffness on these two components. The study provides deep insights into beam damage detection based on moving load-induced response. Consequently, a simple and intuitive method for damage localization is developed. First, the closed-form solution is derived based on the modal perturbation and modal superposition method. The closed-form solution enables the individual examination of damage-induced changes in moving- and natural-frequency components. The results show that the moving-frequency component is preferred in damage localization. Then, multi-scale discrete wavelet transform is employed to separate the moving-frequency component from the total dynamic response and to subsequently locate the damage. Numerical examples with single or multiple damages are utilized to validate the efficacy of the proposed response computation algorithm and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the corresponding damage localization method. The effects of moving velocity and noise level are carefully studied. In particular, the effects of varying moving velocities and moving vehicular dynamics on damage localization are presented in this paper.
Initiation of exemestane in two warfarin-treated patients leading to elevation and variability of INR
Authors: Dush Aaron , Williams Abby , Mangini Neha , Klaczak Kendra
Published: January 2015

Aromatase inhibitors are sometimes chosen for adjuvant therapy in post-menopausal breast cancer patients with a history of venous thromboembolism over an antiestrogen due to the lower risk of venous thromboembolism associated with aromatase inhibitors compared to antiestrogens. We report two cases where patients on warfarin therapy had an increase in their international normalized ratio with the initiation of exemestane therapy. Initially, the patients also showed international normalized ratio variability possibly due to variable absorption of exemestane. We suggest patients being treated with warfarin and exemestane concomitantly need close monitoring and education in order to decrease the risk of adverse events that could be associated with this possible interaction. To our knowledge, there are no similar reported cases in the literature.
Putting impact into context: The Janus face of the public value of arts and humanities research
Authors: Benneworth Paul
Published: January 2015

This article provides an overview to the Forum on the Public Value of Arts and Humanities Research which follows it. The author argues that the current gloom in the arts and humanities as a result of the increasing pressure for societal utility does not recognise the complete picture. A growing number of scholars are seeking to understand how the social life of arts and humanities knowledge operates and how it flows into and has impact on society. Seven articles provide a variety of insights into understanding and mapping this ‘social life of knowledge’, and provide a glimmer of hope for a set of disciplines undergoing a painful period of self-reflection.
Strategy maps in university management
Authors: Han Shuangmiao , Zhong Zhou
Published: January 2015

In this study, the conceptual use of the strategy map approach and the strategy map which it produces have been adapted from the business sector and introduced as tools for achieving more effective strategic planning and management in higher education institutions (HEIs). This study discusses the development of strategy maps as transformational management tools in universities. It analyses 15 universities’ strategy maps to establish a comparative perspective in terms of content, expression and form. Based on this analysis, the study synthesises a model for the effective employment of the strategy map approach and strategy maps in universities. The study then uses Tsinghua University as the subject of a case study to illustrate how a university’s strategic plan could be converted into a strategy map. This study gives suggestions for implications of the strategy map approach in transforming the internal governance model in universities and achieving effective and responsive university strategic planning and management.
Adrenal disease: The GP’s role
Authors: Mears Ruth , Roberts Aled
Published: January 2015

The adrenal glands sit above the kidneys and consist of an outer adrenal cortex and an inner adrenal medulla. The adrenal cortex is responsible for the production of aldosterone (a mineralocorticoid), cortisol (a glucocorticoid) and sex steroid precursors (pre-androgens). The adrenal medulla is functionally part of the sympathetic nervous system and contains chromaffin cells that release noradrenaline and adrenaline (catecholamines). Disorders of the adrenal gland may result in over- production of hormones, for example, excess glucocorticoids causing Cushing’s syndrome, excess mineralocorticoids causing primary hyperaldosteronism or excess catecholamines (phaeochromocytoma), or under-production such as in Addison’s disease (also known as primary adrenal failure), which is a deficiency of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. This article explores these four conditions in greater depth to help GPs have a greater understanding of their role in the diagnosis and management of adrenal disorders.
Mutuelles de santé en Afrique : caractéristiques et relations contractuelles avec les prestataires de soins pour la prise en charge de la qualité des soins
Authors: Ndiaye Pascal , Vanlerberghe Veerle , Lefèvre Pierre , Criel Bart
Published: January 2015

En Afrique, une part importante de la population est encore confrontée à plusieurs barrières pour accéder aux soins. Les mutuelles de santé (MS) sont mises en place pour réduire la barrière financière et assurer à leurs membres un accès à des soins de qualité. Les MS établissent des relations avec les prestataires de soins sous forme de contrat, dont certaines clauses peuvent contenir des notions de qualité des soins (QS). A travers une vue d’ensemble de la typologie de 180 MS de 14 pays (dans Afrique Ouest et Centrale), cet article vise à analyser dans quelle mesure les caractéristiques des MS influencent la mise en œuvre de mécanismes contractuels susceptibles de faciliter la discussion sur la QS. L’hypothèse de cette association a été étudiée avec trois types de caractéristiques (taille, utilisation des services et volume des soins achetés) et huit variables relatives à la contractualisation et la QS (existence d’un contrat, organisation de rencontres, fréquence de ces rencontres, présence de notions de QS dans le contrat, négociation du contrat, révision du contrat, révision des clauses spécifiques à la QS et organisation de rencontres pour discuter de QS).

Les MS de type communautaire représentent 80% des mutuelles étudiées (60% d’entre elles sont localisées en zone rurale). Les MS professionnelles représentent 17% et se concentrent principalement au Mali et en Côte d’Ivoire.

La quasi-totalité des MS disposent de contrats écrits et contenant des notions relatives à la QS. Bien que les MS de grande taille ayant des résultats financiers importants négocient plus les aspects liés à la qualité des soins lors de l’élaboration de la convention, les MS de taille et aux performances financières plus modestes mettent en œuvre des mécanismes plus réguliers de concertation avec les prestataires. Ces rencontres sont susceptibles de créer un espace de prise en charge de la QS.
The trajectory of the Anthropocene: The Great Acceleration
Authors: Steffen Will , Broadgate Wendy , Deutsch Lisa , Gaffney Owen , Ludwig Cornelia
Published: January 2015

The ‘Great Acceleration’ graphs, originally published in 2004 to show socio-economic and Earth System trends from 1750 to 2000, have now been updated to 2010. In the graphs of socio-economic trends, where the data permit, the activity of the wealthy (OECD) countries, those countries with emerging economies, and the rest of the world have now been differentiated. The dominant feature of the socio-economic trends is that the economic activity of the human enterprise continues to grow at a rapid rate. However, the differentiated graphs clearly show that strong equity issues are masked by considering global aggregates only. Most of the population growth since 1950 has been in the non-OECD world but the world’s economy (GDP), and hence consumption, is still strongly dominated by the OECD world. The Earth System indicators, in general, continued their long-term, post-industrial rise, although a few, such as atmospheric methane concentration and stratospheric ozone loss, showed a slowing or apparent stabilisation over the past decade. The post-1950 acceleration in the Earth System indicators remains clear. Only beyond the mid-20th century is there clear evidence for fundamental shifts in the state and functioning of the Earth System that are beyond the range of variability of the Holocene and driven by human activities. Thus, of all the candidates for a start date for the Anthropocene, the beginning of the Great Acceleration is by far the most convincing from an Earth System science perspective.
Single-Stimulus Functional MRI Produces a Neural Individual Difference Measure for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lu James T. , Kishida Kenneth T. , De Asis-Cruz Josepheen , Lohrenz Terry , Treadwell-Deering Diane , Beauchamp Michael , Montague P. Read
Published: January 2015

Functional MRI typically makes inferences about neural substrates of cognitive phenomena at the group level. We report the use of a single-stimulus blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) response in the cingulate cortex that differentiates individual children with autism spectrum disorder from matched typically developing control children with sensitivity and specificity of 63.6% and 73.7%, respectively. The approach consists of passive viewing of self and other faces from which an individual difference measure is derived from the BOLD response to the first self-face image only. The method, penalized logistic regression, requires no averaging over stimulus presentations or individuals. These findings show that single-stimulus functional MRI responses can be extracted from individual subjects and used profitably as a neural individual difference measure. The results suggest that single-stimulus functional MRI can be developed to produce quantitative neural biomarkers for other developmental disorders and may even be useful in the rapid typing of cognition in healthy individuals.
Tribological behaviour of titanium alloy modified by carbon–DLC composite film
Authors: Wang S. , Wang F. , Liao Z. , Wang Q. , Tyagi R. , Liu W.
Published: January 2015

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films were deposited on both the untreated and the prior carbon ion implanted Ti6Al4V alloys by plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD). The tribological behaviours were evaluated by conducting reciprocating wear tests against ZrO2 using a ball on disc tribotester. The effect of ion implantation dose and zone on mechanical and tribological behaviour of DLC films was studied by means of nanohardness and nanoscratch tester, SEM and three-dimensional surface profiler. The duplex treatment dramatically increased the surface hardness and bonding strength of film/substrate. Both carbon ion implantation and PECVD improved the wear resistance of titanium alloy, whereas the combined process of carbon ion implantation with the dose of 1016 ions cm−2 and PECVD offered the best wear resistance by a reduction of 94·3% in wear volume in comparison to untreated alloy. The cracks and deformations that induced local flaking failure under high contact stress played an important role in the wear and failure mechanisms.
Deletion of Stat3 in hematopoietic cells enhances thrombocytosis and shortens survival in a JAK2-V617F mouse model of MPN
Authors: Grisouard Jean , Shimizu Takafumi , Duek Adrian , Kubovcakova Lucia , Hao-Shen Hui , Dirnhofer Stephan , Skoda Radek C.
Published: January 2015

Key Points

Loss of Stat3 in hematopoietic cells enhances JAK2-V617F–driven thrombopoiesis and negatively impacts survival in mouse models. The phenotypic changes of Stat3-deficient JAK2-V617F mice could in part be mediated by increased Stat1 expression and activation.
Critical role of CD4 T cells in PF4/heparin antibody production in mice
Authors: Zheng Yongwei , Yu Mei , Padmanabhan Anand , Aster Richard H. , Yuan Liudi , Wen Renren , Wang Demin
Published: January 2015

Key Points

CD4 T cells play a critical role in controlling production of PF4/heparin-specific antibodies.
Deficiency of fibroblast activation protein alpha ameliorates cartilage destruction in inflammatory destructive arthritis
Authors: Wäldele Stefan , Koers-Wunrau Christina , Beckmann Denise , Korb-Pap Adelheid , Wehmeyer Corinna , Pap Thomas , Dankbar Berno
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Inflammatory destructive arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), is characterized by invasion of synovial fibroblasts (SF) into the articular cartilage and erosion of the underlying bone, leading to progressive joint destruction. Because fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP) has been associated with cell migration and cell invasiveness, we studied the function of FAP in joint destruction in RA.

Methods

Expression of FAP in synovial tissues and fibroblasts from patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and RA as well as from wild-type and arthritic mice was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, fluorescence microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Fibroblast adhesion and migration capacity was assessed using cartilage attachment assays and wound-healing assays, respectively. For in vivo studies, FAP-deficient mice were crossed into the human tumor necrosis factor transgenic mice (hTNFtg), which develop a chronic inflammatory arthritis. Beside clinical assessment, inflammation, cartilage damage, and bone erosion were evaluated by histomorphometric analyses.

Results

RA synovial tissues demonstrated high expression of FAP whereas in OA samples only marginal expression was detectable. Consistently, a higher expression was detected in arthritis SF compared to non-arthritis OA SF in vitro. FAP-deficiency in hTNFtg mice led to less cartilage degradation despite unaltered inflammation and bone erosion. Accordingly, FAP−/− hTNFtg SF demonstrated a lower cartilage adhesion capacity compared to hTNFtg SF in vitro.

Conclusions

These data point to a so far unknown role of FAP in the attachment of SF to cartilage, promoting proteoglycan loss and subsequently cartilage degradation in chronic inflammatory arthritis.
Micromorphological and chemical elucidation of the degradation mechanisms of birch bark archaeological artefacts
Authors: Orsini Sibilla , Ribechini Erika , Modugno Francesca , Klügl Johanna , Di Pietro Giovanna , Colombini Maria Perla
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Since ancient times, the unique properties of birch barks (Betula genus) have made them a material of choice for producing both everyday-life and artistic objects. Yet archaeological birch bark artefacts are rare, and little is known about the chemical transformations undergone by bark (chemically composed mainly of suberin and triterpenes) in archaeological contexts. Understanding the chemical modifications induced by ageing is essential for selecting suitable preservation and conservation approaches. Thus, the main aim of this research is to assess the preservation and state of degradation of archaeological findings made of birch bark: a Neolithic bow case recovered from a melting ice patch in the Bernese Alps (Switzerland) and a waterlogged birch bark vessel discovered at Moossee Lake (Canton of Bern, Switzerland).

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) were used to obtain information at micro-morphological and molecular levels on the state of degradation of the birch bark findings. GC/MS analysis followed two different sample preparations, alkaline hydrolysis and solvent extraction, in order to investigate respectively the hydrolysable and soluble constituents, and to test whether part of the suberin structure was depolymerised by the long period of burial.

Results and conclusions

SEM investigations on archaeological birch bark samples have shown that the extent of degradation of the microstructure is much higher in waterlogged birch bark than in birch bark preserved in ice. GC/MS analysis revealed that at a molecular level, the birch bark was quite well preserved. In both the archaeological environments, ice patch and lake water, various reactions had taken place leading to the depletion of reactive and sensitive compounds such as unsaturated acids and epoxy-compounds. In addition, archaeological birch bark had undergone depolymerization and oxidation reactions leading to the appearance of free suberin monomers and of oxidised triterpenes (betulone and lupenone). GC/MS data also seems to suggest that the birch bark preserved in the waterlogged site had a more pronounced degradation both in terms of oxidation and depolymerisation.
Using Remote Sensing for Building Damage Assessment: GEOCAN Study and Validation for 2011 Christchurch Earthquake
Authors: Foulser-Piggott Roxane , Spence Robin , Eguchi Ron , King Andrew
Published: January 2015

This study explores the performance of GEOCAN, a remote-sensing and crowdsourcing platform for assessing earthquake damage, by using geo-referenced ground-based damage assessments. This paper discusses methods for the application of remote sensing in post-earthquake damage assessment and reports on a GEOCAN crowd-sourcing study following the 22 February 2011 Christchurch event and its validation using field studies. It describes the principal data sets used, discusses in detail the problems of validation, and considers the extent of omission and commission errors. It is clear that although commission errors in the GEOCAN damage estimation are low, the omission error is significant (64%); the extent of these and the causal factors are analyzed with a decision model. The results show that the image-based analysis in this case does not reproduce the spatial pattern or magnitude of the damage impact. Finally, recommendations to improve the performance of GEOCAN in subsequent deployments are made.
Shroom3 functions downstream of planar cell polarity to regulate myosin II distribution and cellular organization during neural tube closure
Authors: McGreevy Erica M. , Vijayraghavan Deepthi , Davidson Lance A. , Hildebrand Jeffrey D.
Published: January 2015

Neural tube closure is a critical developmental event that relies on actomyosin contractility to facilitate specific processes such as apical constriction, tissue bending, and directional cell rearrangements. These complicated processes require the coordinated activities of Rho-Kinase (Rock), to regulate cytoskeletal dynamics and actomyosin contractility, and the Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) pathway, to direct the polarized cellular behaviors that drive convergent extension (CE) movements. Here we investigate the role of Shroom3 as a direct linker between PCP and actomyosin contractility during mouse neural tube morphogenesis. In embryos, simultaneous depletion of Shroom3 and the PCP components Vangl2 or Wnt5a results in an increased liability to NTDs and CE failure. We further show that these pathways intersect at Dishevelled, as Shroom3 and Dishevelled 2 co-distribute and form a physical complex in cells. We observed that multiple components of the Shroom3 pathway are planar polarized along mediolateral cell junctions in the neural plate of E8.5 embryos in a Shroom3 and PCP-dependent manner. Finally, we demonstrate that Shroom3 mutant embryos exhibit defects in planar cell arrangement during neural tube closure, suggesting a role for Shroom3 activity in CE. These findings support a model in which the Shroom3 and PCP pathways interact to control CE and polarized bending of the neural plate and provide a clear illustration of the complex genetic basis of NTDs.
Hormonal regulation of colour change in eyes of a cryptic fish
Authors: Sköld Helen Nilsson , Yngsell Daniel , Mubashishir Muhmd , Wallin Margareta
Published: January 2015

Colour change of the skin in lower vertebrates such as fish has been a subject of great scientific and public interest. However, colour change also takes place in eyes of fish and while an increasing amount of data indicates its importance in behaviour, very little is known about its regulation. Here, we report that both eye and skin coloration change in response to white to black background adaptation in live sand goby Pomatoschistus minutes, a bentic marine fish. Through in vitro experiments, we show that noradrenaline and melanocyte concentrating hormone (MCH) treatments cause aggregation of pigment organelles in the eye chromatophores. Daylight had no aggregating effect. Combining forskolin to elevate intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) with MCH resulted in complete pigment dispersal and darkening of the eyes, whereas combining prolactin, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) or melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) with MCH resulted in more yellow and red eyes. ACTH and MSH also induced dispersal in the melanophores, resulting in overall darker eyes.

By comparing analysis of eyes, skin and peritoneum, we conclude that the regulation pattern is similar between these different tissues in this species which is relevant for the cryptic life strategy of this species. With the exception of ACTH which resulted in most prominent melanophore pigment dispersal in the eyes, all other treatments provided similar results between tissue types. To our knowledge, this is the first study that has directly analysed hormonal regulation of physiological colour change in eyes of fish.
Structural, Electronic, and Magnetic Properties of Novel Spin-Crossover Complex: Fe(butyl nicotinate)2[Au(CN)2]2
Authors: Ueno Shoutaro , Kawasaki Takeshi , Okabayashi Jun , Kitazawa Takafumi
Published: January 2015

We have synthesized a novel bilayered Hofmann-type 2D network complex Fe(butyl nicotinate)2[Au(CN)2]2 (I). The single crystals of I reveal a spin-crossover (SCO) transition around 200 K. Temperature-dependent X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectra indicate that I displays both SCO and aurophilic interaction properties.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of psychotherapy in treatment of essential hypertension on the primary care level
Authors: Zholamanova Ainur , Kalmatayeva Zhanna
Published: January 2015

Aim of the study

estimate expediency of psychotherapy in patients with essential hypertension with clinical and economic perspectives.

Subject or material and methods

75 patients with identified psychosomatic disorders (37 men, 38 female) suffering from hypertension 1-2 degrees (from 140/90 to 179/109 mm Hg), were randomized into 2 groups (mean age is 48,5±3,69, and 47,5±4,2 years). All patients received therapy by the same scheme, but 1ST group of patients additionally treated with psychotherapy.

Results

Mini-mult test showed qualitative improvements on all scales for the 1st group. The control examination of the mean blood pressure at week 14 found statistically significant difference between final systolic blood pressure of two groups (134.27±3.7 vs. 137.33±3.9, p=0.032), but no such difference in final diastolic blood pressure (82.93±5.1 vs. 83.81±4.3, p=0.198). The average cost for 24 weeks for 1 person is 47.81 USD and 48,62 USD respectively. Costs of reductions of SBP is 1.98 USD vs. 2,53 USD and DBP 3.19 USD vs 3.73 USD per 1 mm. Hg. BP level reduction is faster in the 1st group (7.05 weeks vs. 7.97 weeks).

Discussion

Economical results are relevant to the Republic of Kazakhstan, but for use in another country with another organization of the health system, it will be different.

Conclusions

conservative therapy of hypertension combined with comprehensive psychotherapy leads to better results compared with a conventional conservative treatment scheme, from psychological, clinical and economical points of view, bur results can be different in the another country. More trials in different countries with bigger number of patients are necessary.
Why is it important to monitor the diet of overweight patients with depressive disorders?
Authors: Stefańska Ewa , Wendołowicz Agnieszka , Cwalina Urszula , Kowzan Urszula , Konarzewska Beata , Szulc Agata , Ostrowska Lucyna
Published: January 2015

Aim of the study

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of weight reduction diet in patients with depressive disorders, including the assessment of changes in the intake of major nutrients that may promote alterations in body composition during a three-month observation.

Subject or material and methods

The study included 77 people with excessive body weight (45 women and 32 men; average age of women 49.3±10.3 years and men 47.1± 1.2 years) treated for recurrent depressive disorders and being on a 3-month weight reduction diet. The study patients underwent anthropometric measurements and their body composition was determined with electric bio-impedance.

Results

Mean weight loss in women was 2.7±2.5kg, and in men 2.0±5.6kg. There was a decrease in fat mass in women by an average of 1.8±5.7kg and in men by 1.3±7.1kg. A statistically significant reduction was reported in the mean waist circumference (3.8±3.7cm) and hips (2.0 ± 1.9cm) among women. Diet modification brought a decrease in the energy value of daily diet and reduction in the supply of macronutrients.

Discussion

Dietary treatment consisting in reduced energy values, mainly by reducing fat intake, contributes to weight loss.

Conclusions

The long-term effect of the nutritional therapy indicates the need for intensified dietary education, both in terms of the number of dietary trainings and intensive cooperation between patient and dietician for proper selection of food products. The cooperation should not only be related to diet correction, but is also expected to motivate physical activity and lifestyle changes.
Cognitive functioning in depression period of bipolar disorder
Authors: Świtalska Julita , Borkowska Alina
Published: January 2015

Aim of the study

Study aims were to compare neuropsychological functioning of depressed bipolar patients and healthy controls and to estimate relationship between cognitive functions and depressive symptoms.

Subject or material and methods

Cognitive functions were examined in 30 depressed bipolar patients aged 18-68 (M=45,6; 18 women and 12 men) who fulfilled ICD-10 criteria for depressive episode (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score ≥ 11). The comparison group consisted of 30 healthy subjects aged 23-71 (M=46,2; 20 women and 10 men) matched in aged, years of education and gender to bipolar group. A neuropsychological battery assessed executive functions and working memory.

Results

The bipolar patients in depression reviled neuropsychological deficits in working memory and some aspects of executive functions in comparison to healthy group. Only in WCST test both groups received similar results. Neuropsychological functioning seems to be independent of the severity of depressive symptoms.

Discussion

Different aspects of working memory and executive functions are impaired in depression period of bipolar disorder and they seem independent of the severity of depressive symptoms. These results are consistent with previous reports.

Conclusions

In patients with bipolar depression cognitive assessment should be taken into account in the diagnosis and the disturbances in executive functions and working memory should be treated with neuropsychological rehabilitation and / or pharmacotherapy.
Assessment of dietary habits of patients with recurrent depressive disorders
Authors: Stefańska Ewa , Wendołowicz Agnieszka , Cwalina Urszula , Kowzan Urszula , Konarzewska Beata , Szulc Agata , Ostrowska Lucyna
Published: January 2015

Aim of the study

The aim of this study was evaluation of selected dietary habits of patients with recurrent depressive disorders.

Subject or material and methods

The study included 150 patients (75 patients suffering from recurrent depressive disorders. and 75 healthy people aged 18-64 years). The assessment of dietary habits was carried out by using a food frequency questionnaire.

Results

It has been shown that in the compared groups of women, patients with depression consumed significantly less groats (p<0.001), rice (p= 0.02), red meat (p<0.01), fish (p<0.01), vegetables (p<0.001), fruits (p<0.01) and wine (p<0.001) in comparison with women without depression, and they were significantly more likely to consume wheat-rye bread (p= 0.03), cheese (p=0.02), butter (p=0.03), cream (p <0.01), lard (p <0.001), coffee (p=0.03) and sugar (p=0.02) in comparison with women without depression. Statistically significant differences between the two groups of men were diagnosed in the frequent intake of lard (p<0.001) and less frequent vegetable oils (p<0.01), beer (p= 0.01), and fast food (p<0.01) for men with depression compared with men in the control group.

Discussion

The correct food pattern requires both the proper balance of energy intake and food rations sufficient quantity and quality of products providing all essentials nutrients.

Conclusions

In the treatment of patients with depression during the declared change of diet, the need for nutrition education on the principles of rational nutrition should be taken into attention, including the selection of appropriate food groups in order to ensure an optimal supply of all necessary to the proper functioning of the body's nutrients.
Managing challenging behaviour effectively
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: January 2015

Challenging behaviour manifests in various ways and it is vital that care givers know the appropriate method of dealing with each manifestation. It is important to understand not only the means of restraint, but also to understand the reasons behind such behaviour
Promoting good bone health: how can we help?
Authors: Patience Sara
Published: January 2015

In this article, Sara Patience looks at the risk and cost of falls in older people, and evidence for improvement in bone health in older people through diet and exercise lifestyle factors
Dynamic boundary conditions for a coupled convection-diffusion model with heat effects: applications in cross-contamination control
Authors: Santatriniaina N. , Deseure J. , Nguyen T.Q. , Fontaine H. , Beitia C. , Rakotomanana L.
Published: January 2015

This work investigates the mass transfer of the Airborne Molecular cross Contamination (AMCs) between the Front Opening Unified Pod (FOUP) and wafer (silicon substrates) during the microelectronics devices manufacturing using dynamic boundary conditions. Such cross-contamination phenomena lead to detrimental impact on production yield in microelectronic industry and a predictive approach using modelling and computational methods is a very strong way to understand and qualify the AMCs cross contamination processes. The FOUP is made of polymeric materials and it is considered as a heterogeneous porous media, it can adsorb and desorb the contaminant, thus the modelled processes are the contamination of two-component in transient flow. Coupled diffusion and convection-diffusion model with heat effects are used to define the phenomena. The present methodology is, first using the optimization methods with the numerical solution in order to define the physical constants of various materials which have been studied experimentally and separately, and the second using the finite element methods including these physical constants and relevant interface condition in order to take into account the adsorption kinetics law. Numerical methods to solve the problem are proposed. The dynamics behaviour of the AMCs analysis was determined thanks to the switch of Dirichlet to Neumann condition. The mathematical model preserves the classical forms of the diffusion and convection diffusion equations and yields to consistent form of the Fick's law. The computed results are in correlation with the experimental measurements. Some numerical results are presented in this work.
Experimental analysis on metallic foams-a response surface methodology approach
Authors: Abd Osama Ibrahim
Published: January 2015

This study aimed to fabricate metallic porous materials using powder metallurgy (PM) space-holder technique. In the PM route, Al powder was mixed with different ratios (7%, 10%, and 20%) and sizes (500 and 1000 μm) of sodium chloride granules as space-holder agent. The mixture was then compacted at different compacting pressures (150, 200, and 250 MPa) and then heated to 280 °C for sintering. Subsequently, sodium chloride granules were removed by dissolving in water to obtain the porous structure. Tests were performed on all porous Al specimens, and characteristics such as density and porosity were measured. A statistical approach was used to optimize processing parameters. ANOVA statistical tool was used to obtain the final evaluation of the most significant features, namely, relative density and porosity fraction.