bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global parameterization and validation of a two‐leaf light use efficiency model for predicting gross primary production across FLUXNET sites
Authors: Zhou Yanlian , Wu Xiaocui , Ju Weimin , Chen Jing M. , Wang Shaoqiang , Wang Huimin , Yuan Wenping , Andrew Black T. , Jassal Rachhpal , Ibrom Andreas , Han Shijie , Yan Junhua , Margolis Hank , Roupsard Olivier , Li Yingnian , Zhao Fenghua , Kiely Gerard , Starr Gregory , Pavelka Marian , Montagnani Leonardo , Wohlfahrt Georg , D'Odorico Petra , Cook David , Arain M. Altaf , Bonal Damien , Beringer Jason , Blanken Peter D. , Loubet Benjamin , Leclerc Monique Y. , Matteucci Giorgio , Nagy Zoltan , Olejnik Janusz , Paw U Kyaw Tha , Varlagin Andrej
Published: December 2015

Light use efficiency (LUE) models are widely used to simulate gross primary production (GPP). However, the treatment of the plant canopy as a big leaf by these models can introduce large uncertainties in simulated GPP. Recently, a two‐leaf light use efficiency (TL‐LUE) model was developed to simulate GPP separately for sunlit and shaded leaves and has been shown to outperform the big‐leaf MOD17 model at six FLUX sites in China. In this study we investigated the performance of the TL‐LUE model for a wider range of biomes. For this we optimized the parameters and tested the TL‐LUE model using data from 98 FLUXNET sites which are distributed across the globe. The results showed that the TL‐LUE model performed in general better than the MOD17 model in simulating 8 day GPP. Optimized maximum light use efficiency of shaded leaves (εmsh) was 2.63 to 4.59 times that of sunlit leaves (εmsu). Generally, the relationships of εmsh and εmsu with εmax were well described by linear equations, indicating the existence of general patterns across biomes. GPP simulated by the TL‐LUE model was much less sensitive to biases in the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) input than the MOD17 model. The results of this study suggest that the proposed TL‐LUE model has the potential for simulating regional and global GPP of terrestrial ecosystems, and it is more robust with regard to usual biases in input data than existing approaches which neglect the bimodal within‐canopy distribution of PAR.
Climatology of summer Shamal wind in the Middle East
Authors: Yu Yan , Notaro Michael , Kalashnikova Olga V. , Garay Michael J.
Published: December 2015

The Middle Eastern Shamal is a strong north‐northwesterly wind, capable of lifting dust from the Tigris‐Euphrates basin and transporting it to the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula. The present study explores the poorly understood spatial and temporal variability of summer Shamal on the diurnal, seasonal, and interannual time scales, along with its influence on dust storm activity and sensitivity to global patterns of sea surface temperature using a comprehensive set of observational data. Statistics of the summer Shamal season are quantified for the first time, including its onset, termination, duration, and the occurrence of distinct break periods. Based on a multistation criteria, the mean onset and termination of the Shamal season occur on 30 May ± 16 days (1 standard deviation) and 16 August ± 22 days, respectively. Anomalously early (late) onset and termination of the Shamal season are typically associated with La Niña (El Niño) conditions, which favor (inhibit) the development of the Iranian heat low in spring and inhibit (favor) its persistence into late summer. Dust source regions in the Tigris‐Euphrates basin and Kuwait, as well as southeastward dust transport during the summer Shamal, which cannot be detected by satellite aerosol products alone, are identified, for the first time, from the Multiangle Imaging Spectroradiometer plume motion vector products and confirmed by surface observations and lidar data. A close interrelationship has been revealed among summertime dust activity across the eastern Arabian Peninsula, frequency of Shamal days, and duration of the Shamal season on the interannual time scales.
Dynamic, structured heterogeneity of water isotopes inside hillslopes
Authors: Oshun Jasper , Dietrich William E. , Dawson Todd E. , Fung Inez
Published: December 2015

Use of the stable isotopes of water (δD, δ18O) to determine vegetative water sources, runoff paths, and residence times generally assumes that, other than shallow evaporative enrichment, the isotopic composition of precipitation is conserved as it travels through the subsurface to the stream channel. Here we follow rainfall through a thick (up to 25m) vadose zone of soil, saprolite, and weathered bedrock mostly composed of argillite, and underlying a steep (32°) forested hillslope. We discover a persistent structured heterogeneity of water isotopes inside the hillslope. Summer dry season causes evaporative enrichment of the soil, but not in the saprolite and weathered bedrock. In winter, the mobile water, generated by successive rainstorms with widely varying isotopic composition, mixes in the vadose zone, elevating soil and rock moisture content, and eventually recharging the groundwater with isotopically invariant water similar to the seasonally averaged rainfall. Yet throughout the winter the less mobile winter soil and rock moisture remains relatively light, and water extracted from the interior of argillite lies well to the left of the local meteoric water line. This persistently light composition of soil and rock moisture and the deviation from average meteoric values suggest that subsurface fractionation, or the inheritance of paleo‐meteoric rock moisture associated with rock uplift may lead to large enduring isotopic differences between high and low mobility water. These differences suggest that the use of water isotopes as tracers must consider the possibility of subsurface isotopic evolution and the influence of exchange with more tightly held water.
A meteorological and snow observational data set from Snoqualmie Pass (921 m), Washington Cascades, USA
Authors: Wayand Nicholas E. , Massmann Adam , Butler Colin , Keenan Eric , Stimberis John , Lundquist Jessica D.
Published: December 2015

We introduce a quality controlled observational atmospheric, snow, and soil data set from Snoqualmie Pass, Washington, USA, to enable testing of hydrometeorological and snow process representations within a rain‐snow transitional climate where existing observations are sparse and limited. Continuous meteorological forcing (including air temperature, total precipitation, wind speed, specific humidity, air pressure, and short and longwave irradiance) are provided at hourly intervals for a 24 year historical period (water years 1989–2012) and at half‐hourly intervals for a more recent period (water years 2013–2015), separated based on the availability of observations. The majority of missing data were filled with biased‐corrected reanalysis model values (using NLDAS). Additional observations include 40 years of snow board new snow accumulation, multiple measurements of total snow depth, and manual snow pits, while more recent years include subdaily surface temperature, snowpack drainage, soil moisture and temperature profiles, and eddy covariance‐derived turbulent heat flux. This data set is ideal for testing hypotheses about energy balance, soil, and snow processes in the rain‐snow transition zone.
Local hydrodynamic parameters of bubble column reactors operating with non‐Newtonian liquids: Experiments and models development
Authors: Esmaeili Amin , Guy Christophe , Chaouki Jamal
Published: December 2015

The effects of liquid phase rheology on the local hydrodynamics of bubble column reactors operating with non‐Newtonian liquids are investigated. Local bubble properties, including bubble frequency, bubble chord length, and bubble rise velocity, are measured by placing two in‐house made optical fiber probes at various locations within a bubble column reactor operating with different non‐Newtonian liquids. It was found that the presence of elasticity can noticeably increase the bubble frequency but decreases the bubble chord length and its rise velocity. The radial profiles of bubble frequency, bubble chord length, and bubble rise velocity are shown to be relatively flat at low superficial gas velocity while they become parabolic at high superficial gas velocity. Moreover, the bubble size and gas holdup are correlated with respect to dimensionless groups by considering the ratio between dynamic moduli of viscoelastic liquids. The novel proposed correlations are capable of predicting the experimental data of bubble size and gas holdup within a mean absolute percentage error of 9.3% and 10%, respectively. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 62: 1382–1396, 2016
MRI/MRS as a surrogate marker for clinical progression in GM1 gangliosidosis
Authors: Regier Debra S. , Kwon Hyuk Joon , Johnston Jean , Golas Gretchen , Yang Sandra , Wiggs Edythe , Latour Yvonne , Thomas Sarah , Portner Cindy , Adams David , Vezina Gilbert , Baker Eva H. , Tifft Cynthia J.
Published: December 2015

Background GM1 gangliosidosis is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in GLB1, encoding β‐galactosidase. The range of severity is from type I infantile disease, lethal in early childhood, to type III adult onset, resulting in gradually progressive neurological symtpoms in adulthood. The intermediate group of patients has been recently classified as having type II late infantile subtype with onset of symptoms at one to three years of age or type II juvenile subtype with symptom onset at 2–10 years. To characterize disease severity and progression, six Late infantile and nine juvenile patients were evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and MR spectroscopy (MRS). Since difficulties with ambulation (gross motor function) and speech (expressive language) are often the first reported symptoms in type II GM1, patients were also scored in these domains. Deterioration of expressive language and ambulation was more rapid in the late infantile patients. Fourteen MRI scans in six Late infantile patients identified progressive atrophy in the cerebrum and cerebellum. Twenty‐six MRI scans in nine juvenile patients revealed greater variability in extent and progression of atrophy. Quantitative MRS demonstrated a deficit of N‐acetylaspartate in both the late infantile and juvenile patients with greater in the late infantile patients. This correlates with clinical measures of ambulation and expressive language. The two subtypes of type II GM1 gangliosidosis have different clinical trajectories. MRI scoring, quantitative MRS and brain volume correlate with clinical disease progression and may serve as important minimally‐invasive outcome measures for clinical trials. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of poly(ester amide)s composed of lactic acid and glycolic acid units by the bulk polycondensation of metal halide salts
Authors: Murase Sara K. , Puiggalí Jordi
Published: December 2015

Thermal polycondensation of the potassium salt of N‐methylchloroacetyl‐6‐aminohexanoic acid (LAHK) was found to be effective in the preparation of a new poly(ester amide) based on lactic acid units with a high yield and a moderate molecular weight. The reaction started in the solid state and proceeded through the formation of potassium chloride salt as the driving force. The use of a monomer having an amide linkage diminished the secondary reactions previously found in the synthesis of polylactide from 2‐halogenopropionates. The polymerization of potassium salt of N‐chloroacetyl‐6‐aminohexanoic acid (GAHK) took place in a similar temperature range as that of the 2‐chloropropionyl derivative; in this way, it was possible to conduct the copolymerization processes. The polymerization kinetics of LAHK and its mixture with GAHK was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The bulk polycondensation reaction was faster for GAHK than for LAHK, but the kinetic differences were not significant enough to prevent copolymerization at a temperature close to 160°C. Therefore, new degradable materials with tuned properties according to the glycolic acid/lactic acid content were obtained. 1H‐NMR spectroscopy was useful for following the time evolution of the copolymerization process and for determining the final composition. Calorimetric data showed that all of the samples were thermally stable and that decreases in the melting temperature and enthalpy were observed at intermediate compositions. The existence of an eutectic point became proof that effective copolymerization was achieved in the thermal polycondensation process. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43197.
Harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) abundance within the Firth of Tay and Eden Estuary, Scotland: recent trends and extrapolation to extinction
Authors: Hanson Nora , Thompson Dave , Duck Callan , Baxter John , Lonergan Mike
Published: December 2015

Aerial surveys have detected alarming declines in counts of harbour seals in several regions across Scotland.

Demographic data and simple models were used to examine the recent decline in the numbers of harbour seals counted in one population within a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) on the east coast of Scotland. The models suggest that the continuation of current trends would result in the species effectively disappearing from this area within the next 20 years.

While the cause of the decline is unknown, it must be reducing adult survival because the high rate of decline cannot be wholly accounted for by changes in other demographic parameters.

Recovery of the population to the abundance recorded at the time the SAC was designated (2005) is likely to take at least 40 years, even if the cause of the decline is immediately identified and removed.

The models suggest that partial removal of the cause can have only limited benefits to population recovery, and there are unlikely to be any long‐term benefits from introducing or reintroducing additional individuals while the underlying problem persists. Therefore, if the population of harbour seals in this area is to recover it is essential that the sources of the increased mortality are identified and measures are put in place to manage these.

Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cumulative stress in research animals: Telomere attrition as a biomarker in a welfare context?
Authors: Bateson Melissa
Published: December 2015

Progress in improving animal welfare is currently limited by the lack of objective methods for assessing lifetime experience. I propose that telomere attrition, a cellular biomarker of biological age, provides a molecular measure of cumulative experience that could be used to assess the welfare impact of husbandry regimes and/or experimental procedures on non‐human animals. I review evidence from humans that telomere attrition is accelerated by negative experiences in a cumulative and dose‐dependent manner, but that this attrition can be mitigated or even reversed by positive life‐style interventions. Evidence from non‐human animals suggests that despite some specific differences in telomere biology, stress‐induced telomere attrition is a robust phenomenon, occurring in a range of species including mice and chickens. I conclude that telomere attrition apparently integrates positive and negative experience in an accessible common currency that translates readily to novel species – the Holy Grail of a cumulative welfare indicator.
Growth signalobody selects functional intrabodies in the mammalian cytoplasm
Authors: Lee Songhee , Kaku Yoshihiro , Inoue Satoshi , Nagamune Teruyuki , Kawahara Masahiro
Published: December 2015

A versatile strategy to inhibit protein functions in the cytoplasmic environment is eagerly anticipated for drug discovery. In this study, we demonstrate a novel system to directly select functional intrabodies from a library in the mammalian cytoplasm. In this system, a target homo‐oligomeric antigen is expressed together with a single‐chain Fv (scFv) library that is linked to the cytoplasmic domain of a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) in the cytoplasm of murine interleukin‐3 (IL‐3)‐dependent cells. As the tyrosine kinase is activated by dimerization, only scFv‐RTK clones that can bind to the target antigen would be oligomerized and transduce a growth signal under the IL‐3‐deprived condition, which leads to selection of functional intrabodies. To demonstrate this system, we used rabies virus phosphoprotein (RV‐P) that forms dimers in the cytoplasm as a target antigen. As a result, functional intrabodies were selected using our system from a naïve scFv library as well as from a pre‐selected anti‐RV‐P library generated by phage display. This system may be applied for screening intrabodies that can prevent progression of various severe diseases.
Bridging the gap between PAT concepts and implementation: An integrated software platform for fermentation
Authors: Chopda Viki R , Gomes James , Rathore Anurag S.
Published: December 2015

Bioreactor control significantly impacts both the amount and quality of the product being manufactured. The complexity of the control strategy that is implemented increases with reactor size, which may vary from thousands to tens of thousands of litres in commercial manufacturing. The Process Analytical Technology (PAT) initiative has highlighted the need for having robust monitoring tools and effective control schemes that are capable of taking real time information about the critical quality attributes (CQA) and the critical process parameters (CPP) and executing immediate response as soon as a deviation occurs. However, the limited flexibility that present commercial software packages offer creates a hurdle. Visual programming environments have gradually emerged as potential alternatives to the available text based languages. This paper showcases development of an integrated programme using a visual programming environment for a Sartorius BIOSTAT® B Plus 5L bioreactor through which various peripheral devices are interfaced. The proposed programme facilitates real‐time access to data and allows for execution of control actions to follow the desired trajectory. Major benefits of such integrated software system include: (i) improved real time monitoring and control; (ii) reduced variability; (iii) improved performance; (iv) reduced operator‐training time; (v) enhanced knowledge management; and (vi) easier PAT implementation.
150 Jahre Mendel
Authors: Hoßfeld Uwe , Simunek Michal V. , Levit Georgy S.
Published: December 2015

Aufgrund seiner systematischen Versuche mit Pflanzenmaterial begründete in der zweiten Hälfte des 19. Jahrhunderts der Augustinermönch Gregor Johann Mendel (1822–1884) mit seinem Vortrag “Versuche über Pflanzen‐Hybriden” (1865) eine neue Forschungsrichtung innerhalb der modernen Biologie (Genetik). Die Rezeption dieses neuen Paradigmas in einzelnen Wissenschaftsbereichen verlief unterschiedlich und erhielt erst nach der “Wiederentdeckung” seiner Gesetze um 1900 die entsprechende Würdigung.
Intravenous high‐dose interferon with or without maintenance treatment in melanoma at high risk of recurrence: meta‐analysis of three trials
Authors: Malczewski Agnieszka , Marshall Andrea , Payne Miranda J. , Mao Lili , Bafaloukos Dimitrios , Si Lu , Pectasides Dimitrios , Fountzilas George , Guo Jun , Gogas Helen , Middleton Mark R.
Published: December 2015

Resected stage IIB–IIIC malignant melanoma has a poor prognosis with a high risk of relapse and death. Treatment with adjuvant interferon alfa‐2b (IFN‐α‐2b) is associated with improved relapse‐free and overall survivals (OS), but the most appropriate dose and duration of treatment are unknown. In this article, we present an individual patient data random effects meta‐analysis of melanoma patients from the U.K., Greek, and Chinese randomized trials. All patients were randomized either to IFN‐α‐2b 15–20 MIU/m2 IV daily 5 days per week for 4 weeks (IV) or to the same regimen followed by IFN‐α‐2b 9–10 MIU/m2 administered three times per week for 48 weeks (IV and SC). Allowing for dose interruptions and reductions, an equivalent total dose of IFN‐α‐2b was delivered in all three studies. We assessed whether IV was noninferior to IV and SC in terms of relapse‐free survival (RFS) and investigated tumor and patient characteristics that impacted on outcomes. Median follow‐up of 716 stage IIB–IIIC patients was 5.4 years. Noninferiority of IV compared to IV and SC could not be conferred for RFS (hazard ratio [HR] 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89–1.52; noninferior P = 0.17). Stage (P < 0.0001), site (acral vs. other, P < 0.0001), and Breslow thickness (P = 0.02) were significant predictors of RFS. The HR for death was 1.13 for IV compared to IV and SC, (95% CI 0.91–1.39). Stage (P < 0.0001) and Breslow thickness (P = 0.001) were significant independent predictors of OS. The available data suggest that where adjuvant high‐dose interferon is being considered there is no evidence to deviate from the year long regimen described in the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group and Intergroup studies.
Accumulative eschar after burn
Authors: Ma Fushun
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

Eschar formation is a potential sequela of burn injuries. Definitive management may include escharectomy and eschar debridement. After eschar removal, the wound can be covered with a skin graft or reepithelialization. For prolonged refractory eschar on the fingertips, topical use of rb‐bFGF after debridement can achieve an optimal outcome.
Ogilvie's syndrome after rectal prolapse repair and total hemorrhoidectomy: Case report and Discussion
Authors: Pervaiz Omer
Published: December 2015

Key Clinical Message

This case highlights the rare diagnosis of Ogilvie's syndrome after minor surgery in a private hospital where facilities and expertise are generally sparse. It shows the importance of knowledge of the subject, proper assessment, accurate diagnosis, and early input from seniors is crucial to prevent ischemia and perforation of colon that carries high mortality.
Liquid Nickel Salts: Synthesis, Crystal Structure Determination, and Electrochemical Synthesis of Nickel Nanoparticles
Authors: Sniekers Jeroen , Verguts Ken , Brooks Neil R. , Schaltin Stijn , Phan Thanh Hai , Trung Huynh Thi Mien , Van Meervelt Luc , De Feyter Steven , Seo Jin Won , Fransaer Jan , Binnemans Koen
Published: December 2015

New nickel‐containing ionic liquids were synthesized, characterized and their electrochemistry was investigated. In addition, a mechanism for the electrochemical synthesis of nanoparticles from these compounds is proposed. In these so‐called liquid metal salts, the nickel(II) cation is octahedrally coordinated by six N‐alkylimidazole ligands. The different counter anions that were used are bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Tf2N−), trifluoromethanesulfonate (OTf−) and methanesulfonate (OMs−). Several different N‐alkylimidazoles were considered, with the alkyl sidechain ranging in length from methyl to dodecyl. The newly synthesized liquid metal salts were characterized by CHN analysis, FTIR, DSC, TGA and viscosity measurements. An odd‐even effect was observed for the melting temperatures and viscosities of the ionic liquids, with the complexes with an even number of carbon atoms in the alkyl chain of the imidazole having a higher melting temperature and a lower viscosity than the complexes with an odd number of carbons. The crystal structures of several of the nickel(II) complexes that are not liquid at room temperature were determined. The electrochemistry of the compounds with the lowest viscosities was investigated. The nickel(II) cation could be reduced but surprisingly no nickel deposits were obtained on the electrode. Instead, nickel nanoparticles were formed at 100 % selectivity, as confirmed by TEM. The magnetic properties of these nanoparticles were investigated by SQUID measurements.
A case of successful detection of disseminated gastrointestinal stromal tumors by ascites smear cytology using cell block preparation with DOG1 immunostaining
Authors: Tajima Shogo , Kawabe Akihiro , Nagasaka Kazunori , Oda Katsutoshi , Kawana Kei , Fukayama Masashi
Published: December 2015

Cytological features of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) have been reported, especially regarding fine‐needle aspiration cytology, including immunostaining for c‐kit and DOG1. Meanwhile, cytological findings of GISTs on ascites cytology have rarely been reported, which may be owing to the rare appearance of GIST tumor cells in ascites. Herein, we present a 66‐year‐old woman who had disseminated GISTs in the abdomen. The GIST tumor cells appeared sparsely in the ascites smear cytology using ascites obtained at the time of autopsy. Even when widespread intra‐abdominal dissemination takes place, GISTs may be hard to detect in ascites smear cytology, based on the experience of this case. However, immunohistochemistry of DOG1 using a cell block preparation was found to clearly visualize the GIST tumor cells, although they were sparsely present. Immunostaining of c‐kit did not provide as clear an identification of the tumor cells as DOG1 did. When suspicious about GISTs, it is wise to prepare a cell block to make it possible to visualize the tumor cells immunohistochemically. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:137–140. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fine‐needle aspiration of soft tissue myoepithelioma
Authors: Wang Gang , Tucker Tracy , Ng Tony L. , Villamil Carlos F. , Hayes Malcolm M.
Published: December 2015

Soft tissue myoepithelioma is a rare neoplasm composed of myoepithelial cells. We describe the cytologic features of a soft tissue myoepithelioma arising in the right lower chest wall in a 65‐year‐old woman. The fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) smears showed round to oval, spindle, epithelioid, and plasmacytoid cells in the myxoid background. The nuclei were uniform, round to ovoid, with finely distributed chromatin and eosinophilic or pale cytoplasm, and resembled lobular carcinoma of breast. Ultrasound guided core biopsy showed the tumor cells had bland cytologic features, arranged in small cords, nests, and dissociated single cells, with no glandular differentiation or breast tissue seen. The tumor cells demonstrated immunoreactivity for cytokeratin (AE1/AE3) and glial fibrillary acidic protein, but were negative for estrogen receptor. Fluorescence in situ hybridization demonstrated the EWSR1 rearrangement, confirming the diagnosis of myoepithelioma. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:152–155. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utility of fine needle aspiration cytology to comprehend the pathogenesis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Narang Shveta , Solanki Anjali , Kashyap Surender , Rani Lekha
Published: December 2015

Background

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a precise, cost‐effective, and minimal invasive technique for diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB). This study was aimed to analyze clinical and cytological characteristics of EPTB with particular emphasis on pathogenesis.

Methods

This was a retrospective study analyzing 237 cases of EPTB diagnosed on FNAC. Depending on the presence of necrosis and granulomas, cases were divided into three classes. Association of cytomorphology with positivity for acid‐fast bacilli was analyzed by Chi‐square test to demonstrate any specific pattern.

Results

Majority of our patients diagnosed as EPTB (73.8%) were young with male‐to‐female ratio of 1:1.3. The mean age was 23.2 years (age range 9 months to 81 years). The most frequent site involved was lymph node (89.5%) with predilection for cervical lymph nodes (81.4%). The extranodal sites affected were breast, abdominal wall, chest wall, salivary glands, soft tissue, bone, and genitourinary tract. Detailed cytological examination revealed necrotizing granulomatous inflammation as most common pattern (43%). Acid‐fast bacilli were detected only in 43.5% of the cases and bacilli detection was more frequently associated with necrotizing lesions (64.9%). Non‐necrotizing lesions showed AFB positivity only in 7.4% of the cases.

Conclusion

To achieve the goal of tuberculosis eradication, it is essential to understand its different forms of clinical presentation and detailed pathogenesis including host factors, host–pathogen interaction, and molecular mechanisms. Cytomorphological features of the representative lesions might be valuable in providing clues regarding possible pathogenetic mechanisms. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:98–102. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DNA damage and repair capacity in workers exposed to low concentrations of benzene
Authors: Lovreglio Piero , Doria Denise , Fracasso Maria Enrica , Barbieri Anna , Sabatini Laura , Drago Ignazio , Violante Francesco S. , Soleo Leonardo
Published: December 2015

DNA damage and cellular repair capacity were studied in 18 male fuel tanker drivers and 13 male filling‐station attendants exposed to low and very low concentrations of benzene, respectively, and compared to 20 males with no occupational exposure (controls). Exposure to airborne benzene was measured using passive personal samplers, and internal doses were assayed through the biomarkers t,t‐muconic acid, S‐phenylmercapturic acid and urinary benzene. DNA damage was evaluated using tail intensity (TI) determined by the comet assay in peripheral lymphocytes. Urinary 7‐hydro‐8‐oxo‐2’‐deoxyguanosine (8‐oxodG) was measured as a biomarker of oxidative damage. DNA repair kinetics were assessed using the comet assay in lymphocytes sampled 20 and 60 min post H2O2 exposure. Benzene exposure differed significantly between the drivers (median 246.3 µg/m3), attendants (median 13.8 µg/m3), and controls (median 4.1 µg/m3). There were no differences in TI and 8‐oxodG among the three groups, or between smokers and non‐smokers. DNA repair kinetics were similar among the drivers, attendants and controls, although the comet assay on H2O2‐damaged lymphocytes after 60 min revealed significantly lower levels of TI only in drivers. The DNA repair process in smokers was similar to that observed in drivers. In conclusion, this study found no relationship between low levels of benzene exposure and DNA damage, although there was evidence that exposure interferes with DNA repair kinetics. The biological impact of this finding on the onset of genotoxic effects in exposed workers has still to be ascertained. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 57:151–158, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vibration‐based damage assessment of steel structure using global and local response measurements
Authors: Loh Chin‐Hsiung , Chan Chuan‐Kai , Chen Sheng‐Fu , Huang Shieh‐Kung
Published: December 2015

Damage assessment of a structure involves acquiring and identifying dynamic characteristics of the structure and using these characteristics to evaluate behavior and performance. In this study, an unsymmetrical three‐story steel structure (fabricated with one weak column in the first floor) was tested on shaking table and subjected to a series of earthquake excitations with increasing level of excitation back to back. Besides, white noise excitation was also applied in between the earthquake excitation to serve as the reference state. Both the traditional sensing system (accelerometer and linear variable differential transformer) and the local optical tracker system were implemented in the structure to collect the vibration‐based responses. For operational modal analysis, structural response from white noise excitation will be used in this study. First, the traditional system identification using global response data is used (multivariate autoregressive (AR)‐model) to extract system natural frequencies and mode shapes from all different set of white noise responses after earthquake excitation. The migration of AR‐coefficient ellipse error from each sensor response was used to identify the damage location. Second, blind source separation technique was used to identify the modal contribution of the structure from each test, which provide information to detect the damage severity. Finally, from the local optical tracker array data, the principal component analysis was applied to quantify the earthquake‐induce local stress of the structural member. Combine the result from damage detection using global measurement and the identified local element stress, one can locate and quantify the damage. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low impact surface hardness testing (Equotip) on porous surfaces – advances in methodology with implications for rock weathering and stone deterioration research
Authors: Wilhelm Katrin , Viles Heather , Burke Órlaith
Published: December 2015

The Equotip surface hardness tester is becoming a popular method for rock and stone weathering research. In order to improve the reliability of Equotip for on‐site application this study tested four porous limestones under laboratory conditions. The range of stone porosity was chosen to represent likely porosities found in weathered limestones in the field. We consider several key issues: (i) its suitability for soft and porous stones; (ii) the type of probe required for specific on‐site applications; (iii) appropriate (non‐parametrical) statistical methods for Equotip data; (iv) sufficient sampling size. This study shows that the Equotip is suitable for soft and porous rock and stone. From the two tested probes the DL probe has some advantages over the D probe as it correlates slightly better with open porosity and allows for more controlled sampling in recessed areas and rough or curved areas. We show that appropriate sampling sizes and robust non‐parametric methods for subsequent data evaluation can produce meaningful measures of rock surface hardness derived from the Equotip. The novel Hybrid dynamic hardness, a combination of two measuring procedures [single impact method (SIM) and repeated impact method (RIM)], has been adapted and is based on median values to provide a more robust data evaluation. For the tested stones in this study we propose a sample size of 45 readings (for a confidence level of 95%). This approach can certainly be transferred to stone and rock with similar porosities and hardness. Our approach also allows for consistent comparisons to be made across a wide variety of studies in the fields of rock weathering and stone deterioration research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of a high‐intensity functional exercise program on depressive symptoms among people with dementia in residential care: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Boström Gustaf , Conradsson Mia , Hörnsten Carl , Rosendahl Erik , Lindelöf Nina , Holmberg Henrik , Nordström Peter , Gustafson Yngve , Littbrand Håkan
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of a high‐intensity functional exercise program on depressive symptoms among older care facility residents with dementia.

Methods

Residents (n = 186) with a diagnosis of dementia, age ≥ 65 years, Mini‐Mental State Examination score ≥ 10, and dependence in activities of daily living were included. Participants were randomized to a high‐intensity functional exercise program or a non‐exercise control activity conducted 45 min every other weekday for 4 months. The 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) were administered by blinded assessors at baseline, 4, and 7 months.

Results

No difference between the exercise and control activity was found in GDS or MADRS score at 4 or 7 months. Among participants with GDS scores ≥ 5, reductions in GDS score were observed in the exercise and control groups at 4 months (–1.58, P = 0.001 and –1.54, P = 0.004) and 7 months (–1.25, P = 0.01 and –1.45, P = 0.007). Among participants with MADRS scores ≥ 7, a reduction in MADRS score was observed at 4 months in the control group (–2.80, P = 0.009) and at 7 months in the exercise and control groups (–3.17, P = 0.003 and –3.34, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

A 4‐month high‐intensity functional exercise program has no superior effect on depressive symptoms relative to a control activity among older people with dementia living in residential care facilities. Exercise and non‐exercise group activities may reduce high levels of depressive symptoms.
Impact of exclusion criteria for the DASISION and ENESTnd trials in the front‐line treatment of a ‘real‐life’ patient population with chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Latagliata Roberto , Carmosino Ida , Vozella Federico , Volpicelli Paola , De Angelis Federico , Loglisci Maria Giovanna , Salaroli Adriano , De Luca Maria Lucia , Montagna Chiara , Serrao Alessandra , Molica Matteo , Diverio Daniela , Nanni Mauro , Mancini Marco , Breccia Massimo , Alimena Giuliana
Published: December 2015

Both Dasision and ENESTnd trials had many exclusion criteria, with a possible selection bias compared with the real‐life. To address the impact of this bias on the first‐line treatment in the current clinical practice, we revised 207 unselected newly diagnosed chronic phase chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients [M/F 108/99, median age 58.8 years, interquartile range 42.3–70.2] treated with front‐line imatinib from June 2002 to June 2013 at our Institution, and evaluated how many of them would have been excluded from enrolment in the two trials. Twenty‐eight patients (13.5%) should have been excluded by both trials because of polycomorbidities (12), severe cardiomyopathy (five), age > 80 with frailty (three), drug abuse (two) or other severe concomitant diseases (six). In addition, eight patients should have been excluded by Dasision due to isolated chronic obstructive broncopulmonar disease, and 19 patients should have been excluded by ENESTnd due to isolated diabetes (10), arrhythmia (four), acute myocardial infarction > 6 months before CML diagnosis (two), chronic pancreatic disease (two) and peripheral arterial obstructive disease (one). On the whole, 36 patients (17.4%) would have been excluded by Dasision trial and 47 (22.7%) by ENESTnd trial. The patients potentially not eligible for both trials were significantly older and with imatinib had a worse outcome compared with patients potentially eligible. Our data highlight that an automatic transposition of results available in clinical controlled trials into the frontline real‐life management of CML patients should be regarded with caution. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Good use of fruit wastes: eco‐friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles, characterization, BSA protein binding studies
Authors: Sreekanth T. V. M. , Ravikumar Sambandam , Lee Yong Rok
Published: December 2015

A simple and eco‐friendly methodology for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using a mango seed extract was evaluated. The AgNPs were characterized by ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. The interaction between the green synthesized AgNPs and bovine serum albumin (BSA) in an aqueous solution at physiological pH was examined by fluorescence spectroscopy. The results confirmed that the AgNPs quenched the fluorophore of BSA by forming a ground state complex in aqueous solution. This fluorescence quenching data were also used to determine the binding sites and binding constants at different temperatures. The calculated thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔH° and ΔS°) suggest that the binding process occurs spontaneously through the involvement of electrostatic interactions. The synchronous fluorescence spectra showed a blue shift, indicating increasing hydrophobicity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiac MRI right ventricle / left ventricle (RV/LV) volume ratio improves detection of RV enlargement
Authors: Altmayer Stephan P.L. , Patel Amit R. , Addetia Karima , Gomberg‐Maitland Mardi , Forfia Paul R. , Han Yuchi
Published: December 2015

Purpose

To determine the normal range of the ratio of right ventricular (RV) end‐diastolic volume to left ventricular (LV) end‐diastolic volume by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and examine whether combining this volume ratio with RVEDV indexed to body surface area (RVEDVi) increased the detection of RV dilation in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Materials and Methods

MRI‐derived ventricular function and volumes were measured in a control group (n = 152) and in patients with PAH (n = 46). Images were acquired with a 1.5T Siemens or a 1.5T Philips scanner using a steady‐state free procession sequence. Proposed criteria for the detection of RV enlargement, including RVEDVi alone, RV/LV volume ratio alone, and combining both criteria, were evaluated in both groups.

Results

The range (mean ± 2 standard deviations) for the volume ratio in the normal population was found to be 0.906–1.266; there was no difference between genders (P = 0.70). Combining this ratio with RVEDVi detected RV enlargement in 21.7% (P < 0.001) PAH patients (volume ratio ≥1.27) who were not identified by the RVEDVi alone (>104 mL/m2 for females and >113 mL/m2 for males).

Conclusion

Combining RV/LV volume ratio with indexed RVEDV increased detection of RV enlargement in a PAH population. This result may have potential impact in RV size assessment. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1379–1385.
Electrochemical characterization and corrosion behavior of an Fe‐Mn‐Si shape memory alloy in simulated concrete pore solutions
Authors: Lee W. J. , Partovi‐Nia R. , Suter T. , Leinenbach C.
Published: December 2015

The corrosion behavior of an Fe‐17Mn‐6Si‐10Cr‐4Ni‐1(V,C) shape memory alloy was investigated using electrochemical methods with regard to its applications as reinforcing element in pre‐stressed concrete structures. The alloy was tested in three kinds of simulated concrete pore solutions, and open circuit potential and linear polarization resistance were monitored with and without chloride addition. The results were compared with a reference material of conventional structural steel, so called S500 (EN 10149 PT2 standard). It is shown that the shape memory alloy has superior corrosion resistance than the reference material steel S500, and, therefore, can be used as pre‐stressed reinforcing element in concrete without any serious corrosion problem. Several practical issues that can influence the corrosion behavior of the alloy in its use of pre‐stressing reinforcements, such as the effects of strain and surface oxidation by heating, have been also discussed through the electrochemical tests in the simulated concrete pore solutions.
Orchestrating Molecular Motion with Light – From Single (macro)Molecules to Materials
Authors: Bléger David
Published: December 2015

The possibility to control molecular systems with light holds much promise for the fields of materials life sciences. To achieve such control, compounds that are able to reversibly photoisomerize between two states or more can be employed. Several classes of photochromic units are available depending on which properties should be modulated upon isomerization, e.g., electronic gap, polarity, or geometry. The latter class, which is mostly based on E/Z isomerization, is particularly useful to remotely trigger motion at the single molecule level, giving rise to a wide range of applications at all scales after incorporation into the adequate architecture. In this article, recent advances in that direction are highlighted, including our own efforts to optimize the intrinsic properties of azobenzene photoswitches, as well as their integration into oligomers, polymers, and 3D frameworks.

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Ground‐based observations of clouds through both an automatic imager and human observation
Authors: Silva Abel Antônio , Souza‐Echer Mariza Pereira
Published: December 2015

The routine to determine the local cloud cover (LCC) drawn from sky images obtained using a ground‐based automatic imager is validated. Almost 3 years of daily data of LCC and cloud cover measurements by ground‐based human observation (CCHO) were compared for two Brazilian stations set 6 km apart. The linear fitting between daily values showed a co‐efficient of determination (r2) and a percent scattering of points (SD%) of ≈ 0.77 and ≈ 19.4% respectively. These results are evidence for the significant similarity between the two sets of data. On the other hand, the level of difference found can be explained by the fact that (1) the data refer to independent micro‐scale observations of the sky from stations set a few kilometres apart and (2) the data were drawn from interpretations of cloud cover by an automatic imager and a human observer. The monthly average values of LCC and CCHO showed better linear fitting parameters r2 = 0.95 and SD% = 6.3%. Average differences of ≈ −10% from LCC to CCHO were found. These average differences may reflect a systematic bias between the two processes of measuring cloud cover.
Tolerability and Adherence Problems in Patients on a Stable Dose of Methotrexate: Results of a Multicentre Survey
Authors: Robinson S. , Gibson S. , George E. , Martin U. , Heslop P. , Wrightson H. , Prowse P. , Kalinowski M. , Marshall D. , Reed M. , Adebajo A. , Walker D.
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Methotrexate is commonly used in patients with inflammatory arthritis. The aim of the present study was to ascertain the prevalence of side effects that patients on methotrexate were tolerating and to establish their adherence to the medication.

Method

A questionnaire was developed for completion by the healthcare professional with the patient, and piloted in one centre. The questionnaire was then used in six other centres, with the addition of a question about the attractiveness of stopping methotrexate treatment. Efficacy and toxicities were scored for severity on a 10‐cm visual analogue scale (VAS). Adherence to the drug was also explored.

Results

The prevalence of ‘any side effect’ ranged from 57% to 86%. The most frequent side effects were fatigue (53%); nausea (38%); mouth ulcers (23%) and hair loss (23%). Efficacy averaged 6.5 cm on the VAS. Results from the combined survey revealed that toxicity averaged 5.9 cm for fatigue, 4.8 cm for nausea, 4.4 for mouth ulcers, 3.9 cm for hair loss and 5.7 cm for ‘other’ side effects.

13.5% of patients revealed that they had forgotten to take the drug for an average of two weeks, and 25% for an average of 2.5 weeks in the previous year. Participants were more likely to reveal this to a nurse than a doctor.

Conclusion

Patients put up with a considerable number of side effects in order to benefit from methotrexate therapy. Adherence to this drug merits further study. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neu zusammengesetzt: Gruppe‐14‐Elemente als Halbleiter
Authors: Barth Sven , Seifner Michael S.
Published: December 2015

Strategien, um ungewöhnliche metastabile Phasen herzustellen, basieren oft auf Prinzipien der Festkörperchemie. Nutzt die Synthese Template oder andere Moleküle, erweitern sich die Zusammensetzungen der Nanostrukturen.
Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurialism in Public Sector Reform
Authors: Cummings Clare
Published: December 2015

There is growing recognition within the international development sector that there is a need for a new, more effective approach to engaging in public sector reform. This article builds on an emerging body of work that advocates more entrepreneurial and adaptive public sector reform programming. Drawing on knowledge and theory from public sector management, psychology and entrepreneurialism, this article aims to understand what motivates public sector workers to work entrepreneurially and suggest how these ideas can be applied to the way in which international development agencies engage in public sector reform work. This requires a shift in thinking from predesigned, large, externally led programmes promoting international best practice to interventions in which agencies adopt the role of a facilitator, helping to establish the enabling conditions for local partners to work entrepreneurially, developing their own solutions to the problems that they identify in their work. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.