bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mendelian Randomization Analysis to Examine for a Causal Effect of Urate on Bone Mineral Density
Authors: Dalbeth Nicola , Topless Ruth , Flynn Tanya , Cadzow Murray , Bolland Mark J , Merriman Tony R
Published: December 2014

In observational studies, serum urate concentrations are positively associated with bone mineral density (BMD) and reduced risk of fragility fractures, raising the possibility that urate is a direct mediator of bone density. We used Mendelian randomization analysis to examine whether urate has a causal effect on BMD. We analyzed data from the Generation 3 cohort in the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) (N = 2501 total; 1265 male, 1236 female). A weighted genetic urate score was calculated using the SLC2A9, ABCG2, SLC17A1, SLC22A11, and SLC22A12 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that explains 3.4% of the variance in serum urate. Mendelian randomization analysis was performed using the two-stage least squares method with >80% power at α = 0.05 to detect an effect size equivalent to that observed in the ordinary least squares analysis between serum urate and total femur BMD. A strong association between serum urate and BMD was observed in the crude ordinary least squares analysis (total femur crude beta = 0.47, p = 1.7E-51). In the two-stage least squares analysis using the weighted genetic urate score as the instrumental variable, no significant relationship was observed between serum urate and BMD (total femur crude beta =–0.36, p = 0.06). Similar findings were observed in both the male and female subgroups, and there was no evidence for causality when individual SNPs were analyzed. Serum urate is strongly associated with BMD. However, controlling for confounders by Mendelian randomization analysis does not provide evidence that increased urate has a causal effect on increasing BMD. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
MRI findings of radiation‐associated angiosarcoma of the breast (RAS)
Authors: Chikarmane Sona A. , Gombos Eva C. , Jagadeesan Jayender , Raut Chandrajit , Jagannathan Jyothi P.
Published: December 2014

Purpose

To describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of radiation‐associated breast angiosarcomas (RAS).

Materials and Methods

In this Institutional Review board (IRB)‐approved retrospective study, 57 women were diagnosed with pathologically confirmed RAS during the study period (January 1999 to May 2013). Seventeen women underwent pretreatment breast MRI (prior to surgical resection or chemotherapy), of which 16 studies were available for review. Imaging features, including all available mammograms, ultrasounds, and breast MRIs, of these patients were evaluated by two radiologists independently and correlated with clinical management and outcomes.

Results

The median age of patients at original breast cancer diagnosis was 69.3 years (range 42–84 years), with average time from initial radiation therapy to diagnosis of RAS of 7.3 years (range 5.1–9.5 years). Nine women had mammograms (9/16, 56%) and six had breast ultrasound (US) (6/16, 38%) prior to MRI, which demonstrated nonsuspicious findings in 5/9 mammograms and 3/6 ultrasounds. Four patients had distinct intraparenchymal masses on mammogram and MRI. MRI findings included diffuse T2 high signal skin thickening (16/16, 100%). Nearly half (7/16, 44%) of patients had T2 low signal intensity lesions; all lesions rapidly enhanced on postcontrast T1‐weighted imaging. All women underwent surgical resection, with 8/16 (50%) receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Four women died during the study period.

Conclusion

Clinical, mammographic, and sonographic findings of RAS are nonspecific and may be occult on conventional breast imaging; MRI findings of RAS include rapidly enhancing dermal and intraparenchymal lesions, some of which are low signal on T2 weighted imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:763–770.
Melatonin in Mediterranean diet, a new perspective
Authors: Iriti Marcello , Varoni Elena Maria
Published: December 2014

The health‐promoting properties of the Mediterranean diet have been attributed, at least in part, to the chemical diversity of plant foods. Among phytochemicals, polyphenols represent the paradigm of the relationship between healthy foods and reduced risk of chronic‐degenerative diseases, although, in the past few years, a new element has enriched this scenario. Melatonin, and possibly other indoleamines recently discovered in some relevant Mediterranean foods, may represent a new factor contributing to the elucidation of the protective effects of diets rich in plant products. Therefore, in synergy with polyphenols and other bioactive phytochemicals (e.g. carotenoids and glucosinolates), melatonin may contribute to maximizing the benefits of healthy dietary styles. This brief survey deals with the occurrence of melatonin in the Mediterranean diet, with an emphasis on grape products, and focuses on the biological significance of dietary melatonin, an emerging and exciting topic in the field of nutritional sciences. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Medically unexplained otorhinolaryngological symptoms: Towards integrated psychiatric care
Authors: Baijens Laura W. J. , Verdonschot Rob , Vanbelle Sophie , Basic Sonja , Kremer Bernd , van de Berg Raymond , Leue Carsten
Published: December 2014

Objective

To evaluate the presence of medically unexplained otorhinolaryngological symptoms in a patient cohort and propose an interdisciplinary approach for their care.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

The study describes the population of patients presenting consecutively at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at the Maastricht University Medical Center. Patients with symptoms who did not meet clear “medical” criteria and were associated with psychological distress and high health care utilization were enrolled in the study by two experienced otorhinolaryngologists following informed consent. The aim of the study is 1) to specify the presence of medically unexplained otorhinolaryngological symptoms and 2) to evaluate the integration of otorhinolaryngological and psychiatric treatment in an interdisciplinary approach in order to help otorhinolaryngologists improve patient care.

Results

Of the 102 patients included, 41% (N = 42) did not have a proven somatic otorhinolaryngological diagnosis. For only 10.8% (N = 4) of the latter, no psychiatric diagnosis had been established. Overall, 78% of the study population (N = 80) was diagnosed with psychiatric morbidity/comorbidity, as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.

Conclusion

The preliminary data suggest that the majority of patients with these unexplained complaints may suffer from under‐ or undiagnosed psychiatric morbidity. Therefore, easy access to integrated interdisciplinary care (otorhinolaryngology and psychiatry) should be offered to patients with medically unexplained otorhinolaryngological symptoms after detailed information is made available to them about the pathogenesis of the complaints and the foreseen psychosomatic approach.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 125:1583–1587, 2015
Lateral neck recurrence from papillary thyroid carcinoma: Predictive factors and prognostic significance
Authors: Giordano Davide , Frasoldati Andrea , Kasperbauer Jan L. , Gabrielli Enrico , Pernice Carmine , Zini Michele , Pedroni Corrado , Cavuto Silvio , Barbieri Verter
Published: December 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to identify any possible predictive factors of lateral neck recurrence in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma with no ultrasonographic and/or cytological evidence of lymph node metastasis at time of diagnosis. The influence of lateral neck recurrence on survival was also investigated.

Study Design

Observational retrospective study.

Methods

Retrospective review of clinical records of 610 patients surgically treated for papillary thyroid carcinoma with clinically negative lymph nodes at the Otolaryngology Unit of the Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova–IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy, from January 1984 to December 2008.

Results

Lateral neck recurrences were ipsilateral to the primary tumor in all cases and were associated with the occurrence of more aggressive histological variants and central neck metastasis. Lateral neck recurrences were more frequently observed in patients with distant metastases and were associated with a reduced disease‐specific survival.

Conclusion

Lateral neck compartment ipsilateral to the tumor was the most common site of recurrence, with about half of cases appearing in the first 28 months of follow‐up. In patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma, detection of lateral neck metastases prior to first surgery is crucial to surgical planning. Aggressive histological variants and postsurgical evidence of lymph node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma in central neck compartment are associated with a higher risk of lateral neck recurrence. In these patients, a closer postsurgical ultrasound surveillance of the lateral neck compartments seems worthwhile.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:2226–2231, 2015
Utility of cell viability assays for use with ex vivo vocal fold epithelial tissue
Authors: Erickson‐DiRenzo Elizabeth , Sivasankar M. Preeti , Thibeault Susan L.
Published: December 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Ex vivo models are routinely used to investigate the barrier function of the vocal fold epithelium. However, there are limited reports on assays that can be used to investigate the effect of clinically relevant challenges on vocal fold epithelial tissue viability. Our objective was to determine the utility of two assays routinely used in cell culture—a cellular metabolic activity assay and a cell membrane integrity assay—to investigate the viability of ex vivo porcine vocal fold epithelium.

Study Design

Prospective, ex vivo animal study.

Methods

Porcine vocal folds were exposed to acrolein, hydrochloric acid, or hydrogen peroxide challenge. An untreated, sham challenge was included as a control. Assays including metabolic activity, cell membrane integrity, and histology were used to determine whether challenges reduced epithelial viability as compared to sham.

Results

Cell membrane integrity and metabolic activity assays detected reductions in viability following hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide challenges but not acrolein challenge as compared to sham. No challenge produced significant changes in epithelial appearance as evidenced by light microscopy.

Conclusions

Metabolic activity and cell membrane integrity assays are valuable tools that can be used to evaluate the viability of ex vivo vocal fold epithelial tissue following clinically relevant challenges. As viability is reduced, the ability of epithelial tissue to maintain its barrier function is compromised. Accurate assessment of viability may provide us clues into understanding mechanisms underlying vocal fold epithelial injury and disease.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:E180–E185, 2015
Surface‐Initiated Anionic Polymerization of [1]Silaferrocenophanes for the Preparation of Colloidal Preceramic Materials
Authors: Elbert Johannes , Didzoleit Haiko , Fasel Claudia , Ionescu Emanuel , Riedel Ralf , Stühn Bernd , Gallei Markus
Published: December 2014

A novel strategy for the preparation of poly(ferrocenylsilane) (PFS) immobilized on the surface of cross‐linked polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles is reported. The ferrocene‐containing core/shell architectures are shown to be excellent candidates as preceramic polymers yielding spherical ceramic materials consisting of iron silicide (Fe3Si) and metallic iron after thermal treatment. For this purpose, dimethyl‐ and hydromethyl[1]silaferrocenophane monomers are polymerized by surface‐initiated ring‐opening polymerization upon taking advantage of residual vinylic moieties at the PS particle surface. A strategy for selective chain growth from the particle surface is developed without the formation of free PFS homopolymer in solution. The grafted particles are characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). These particles are excellent precursors for ceramics as studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The composition of the ceramics is studied using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, while the morphology is probed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealing the original spherical shape of the precursor particles. Obtained ceramic materials— predominantly based on iron silicides—show ferromagnetic behavior as investigated by superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetization measurements at different temperatures.

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Characterization of the interface of co‐extruded asymmetric aluminum‐titanium composite profiles
Authors: Grittner N. , Striewe B. , von Hehl A. , Engelhardt M. , Klose C. , Nürnberger F.
Published: December 2014

The combination of different light alloys enables lightweight solutions with tailor‐made properties at the macroscopic global as well as at the microscopic scale. In this context co‐extrusion by a lateral angular co‐extrusion (LACE) process offers a great potential for advanced profiled structures. While titanium alloys show particular high mechanical strength and good corrosion resistance, aluminium alloys provide a considerable high specific bending stiffness along with low materials costs.

The mechanical properties of metallic compounds strongly depend on the bonding mechanisms, which are initiated during processing. In order to enable a rigid adhesive bond between Al and Ti in this study the extrusions were processed by means of a newly developed lateral angular co‐extrusion that is a modified equal channel angular pressing process (ECAP). Latter is known for promoting diffusion bonding by reducing the activation energy. Hence, the study is focused on the general manufacturing of Al–Ti‐compounds by lateral angular co‐extrusion. The second aim of the study was to investigate the development of the bonding zone during processing. Experiments were made with the material combination Al99.5 and titanium grade 2. The bonding zones of the co‐extruded samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. The bond strength was determined by quasi‐static tensile tests. Compared to the as‐extruded condition an intermetallic layer was formed during heat treatment. The layer was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and electron probe micro analysis.
Explicit dynamics with a non‐local damage model using the thick level set approach
Authors: Moreau K. , Moës N. , Picart D. , Stainier L.
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we are interested in the dynamical response of a material body subjected to impact loadings. Such loadings are brutal and intense and may damage the material, leading to strain localization and rupture. Before strain localization occurs, computation of such problems is often accurate enough and very efficient when an explicit time integration scheme is applied. However, after strain localization occurs, the mathematical relevance of a model is preserved only if non‐locality is introduced. This is often resulting in a dramatic increase of computational costs. We propose in this work to introduce non‐locality through the Thick Level Set approach (TLS). It is the first time the TLS approach has been presented in a dynamical context. In this approach, additional computational efforts are limited in space to a domain slightly bigger than the strain localization region and the time discretization is explicit. The non‐local computation is based on a new technique where basis functions are built on the damaged band. The resulting function space has needed properties to compute non‐local fields. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal design of trajectory parameters and position tracking with balance for riderless bicycle
Authors: Yuan Jing , Sun Fengchi , Huang Yalou
Published: December 2014

Riderless bicycles are typically nonholonomic, underactuated, and nonminimum‐phase systems. The instability and complex dynamic coupling make the trajectory generation and tracking of the bicycles more challenging. In this paper, we consider both the trajectory generation and position tracking of a riderless bicycle. To achieve smooth motion performances, the desired planar trajectory of the contact point of the bicycle's rear wheel is constructed using a parameterized polynomial curve that can connect two given endpoints with associated tangent angles. The optimal parameters of the polynomial curve are obtained by minimizing the maximum of the roll angle's quasistatic trajectory of the bicycle, and this problem is solved by the particle swarm optimization algorithm. Then, position tracking of the desired planar trajectory with balance is converted into an optimization problem subject to the dynamic constraints. The cost function is designed as the combination of the position errors and the roll acceleration of the bicycle, in order to achieve an accurate tracking performance and to prevent the bicycle from falling down. This optimization problem is solved by the Gauss pseudospectral method. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cell‐ and developmental stage‐specific Dicer1 ablation in the lung epithelium models cystic pleuropulmonary blastoma
Authors: Wagh Purnima K , Gardner Margaret A , Ma Xiaolan , Callahan Melissa , Shannon John M , Wert Susan E , Messinger Yoav H , Dehner Louis P , Hill D Ashley , Wikenheiser‐Brokamp Kathryn A
Published: December 2014

Inherited syndromes provide unique opportunities to identify key regulatory mechanisms governing human disease. We previously identified germline loss‐of‐function DICER1 mutations in a human syndrome defined by the childhood lung neoplasm pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB), which arises during lung development. DICER1 regulates many biological processes critical in development and disease pathogenesis. Significant challenges in defining the role of DICER1 in human disease are identifying cause–effect relationships and generating manipulatable systems that model the complexity of organ development and disease pathogenesis. Here we report the generation of a murine model for PPB and demonstrate that precise temporal and cell type‐specific Dicer1 ablation is necessary and sufficient for the development of cystic lungs that histologically and phenotypically model PPB. Dicer1 ablation in the distal airway epithelium during early stages of lung development resulted in a cystic lung phenotype indistinguishable from PPB, whereas DICER1 function was not required for development of the proximal airway epithelium or during later stages of organogenesis. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that Dicer1 loss results in epithelial cell death, followed by cystic airway dilatation accompanied by epithelial and mesenchymal proliferation. These studies define precise temporal and epithelial cell type‐specific DICER1 functions in the developing lung and demonstrate that loss of these DICER1 functions is sufficient for the development of cystic PPB. These results also provide evidence that PPB arise through a novel mechanism of non‐cell‐autonomous tumour initiation, in which the genetic abnormality initiating the neoplasm does not occur in the cells that ultimately transform, but rather occurs in a benign‐appearing epithelial cell component that predisposes underlying mesenchymal cells to malignant transformation. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A competing risk analysis of hormone therapy interruption in Asian women with breast cancer
Authors: Hsieh Kun‐Pin , Chen Li‐Chia , Cheung Kwok‐Leung , Yang Yi‐Hsin
Published: December 2014

Purpose

This study aimed to use a competing risk approach to evaluate the probability of the occurrence of hormone therapy (HT) interruption and to assess its associated predictors in Asian women with breast cancer.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used the Taiwan Health Insurance Research Database from 2003 to 2011. Reimbursement data for women with newly diagnosed primary breast cancer were extracted. Interruption (gap ≥ 180 days) and time to first interruption of HT were identified. The probability of interruption was analysed by Kaplan–Meier (KM) method and cumulative incidence competing risk (CICR) method. Competing risk regressions were used to assess the predictors of interruption.

Results

The 5‐year cumulative incidence of first HT interruption was 14% versus 13% estimated by the KM and the CICR methods, respectively. The estimated incidences from CICR method tended to be around 11% lower than KM method in various HT utilization patterns. Younger (≤50 years) age at diagnosis, switching HT and the presence of HT‐related adverse events were identified as predictors of interruption in competing risk regressions.

Conclusions

The competing risk approach provided lower probabilities and estimates when investigating the incidence of first interruption than the standard survival analysis. The competing risk method, which takes into account the competing risks from cancer recurrence and death, should be considered in future analysis. In terms of improving persistence of HT, it is important to focus on patients of younger age at diagnosis, HT switching and experiencing adverse events. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure‐Making Effects of Metal Nanoparticles in Amyloid Peptide Fibrillation
Authors: Gladytz Anika , Wagner Maximilian , Häupl Tilmann , Elsner Christian , Abel Bernd
Published: December 2014

There is growing concern that nanoparticles (NPs) may accelerate amyloid protein aggregation and thus cause amyloid‐related diseases. Here, the potential of silver and gold NPs is explored (diameter 20 nm) on the aggregation of the amyloid peptide sequences NNFGAIL from human islet amyloid polypeptide and the yeast prion protein sequence GNNQQNY, which are both the sequences of the full systems, which are able to aggregate into characteristic amyloid cross‐beta sheet fibrillar structures. Here, it is shown that silver and gold NPs in physiological aqueous solution at ambient temperatures accelerate the aggregation kinetics of both peptides significantly (in vitro). Scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction provide solid evidence for a “structure‐making” effect of the NPs. In particular, we are able to image the initial peptide corona and measure its structural reorganization in time‐resolved kinetic experiments. After a conversion time Δt, the coated NPs appear to act as templates or seeds for rapid fibrillation. Interestingly, cross‐fibrillation experiments with different peptide‐coated NPs (pcNPs) reveal that they can efficiently induce aggregation of similar peptides once the pcNPs are structurally converted. It is discussed that these structurally converted pcNPs may display similar kinetic features as toxic and aggregation inducing oligomers/protofibrils in normal amyloid aggregation, without being transient and very low‐concentration species. Finally, we suggest and discuss a simple mechanistic picture with the biomolecule corona of NPs being central to the function of the coated NPs in amyloid fibrillation.
SILAC for biomarker discovery
Authors: Dittmar Gunnar , Selbach Matthias
Published: December 2014

SILAC has been employed in MS‐based proteomics for nearly a decade. This method is based on cells in culture metabolically incorporating isotope‐coded essential amino acids and allows the quantification of global protein populations to identify characteristic changes. Variations of this technique developed over the years allow the application of SILAC not only to cell culture derived samples but also to tissues and human specimens, making this powerful technique amenable to clinically relevant samples. In this review, we provide an overview of different SILAC‐derived methods and their use in the identification and development of biomarkers.
Cover Picture: PbS colloidal quantum dot/ZnO‐based bulk‐heterojunction solar cells with high stability under continuous light soaking (Phys. Status Solidi RRL 12/2014)
Authors: Wang Haibin , Kubo Takaya , Nakazaki Jotaro , Segawa Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

No abstract is available for this article.
The identification of disulfides in ricin D using proteolytic cleavage followed by negative‐ion nano‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry of the peptide fragments
Authors: Tran T. T. Nha , Brinkworth Craig S. , Bowie John H.
Published: December 2014

RATIONALE

To use negative‐ion nano‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry of peptides from the tryptic digest of ricin D, to provide sequence information; in particular, to identify disulfide position and connectivity.

METHODS

Negative‐ion fragmentations of peptides from the tryptic digest of ricin D was studied using a Waters QTOF2 mass spectrometer operating in MS and MS2 modes.

RESULTS

Twenty‐three peptides were obtained following high‐performance liquid chromatography and studied by negative‐ion mass spectrometry covering 73% of the amino‐acid residues of ricin D. Five disulfide‐containing peptides were identified, three intermolecular and two intramolecular disulfide‐containing peptides. The [M–H]− anions of the intermolecular disulfides undergo facile cleavage of the disulfide units to produce fragment peptides. In negative‐ion collision‐induced dissociation (CID) these source‐formed anions undergo backbone cleavages, which provide sequencing information. The two intramolecular disulfides were converted proteolytically into intermolecular disulfides, which were identified as outlined above.

CONCLUSIONS

The positions of the five disulfide groups in ricin D may be determined by characteristic negative‐ion cleavage of the disulfide groups, while sequence information may be determined using the standard negative‐ion backbone cleavages of the resulting cleaved peptides. Negative‐ion mass spectrometry can also be used to provide partial sequencing information for other peptides (i.e. those not containing Cys) using the standard negative‐ion backbone cleavages of these peptides. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrical Resistance Heating of Volatile Organic Compounds in Sedimentary Rock
Authors: Beyke Gregory L. , Hodges Barry A. , Jones Gregary N.
Published: December 2014

Electrical resistance heating (ERH) is a common method of remediation for volatile organic compounds in unconsolidated soils, both above and below the water table. In the past eight years, ERH has been used to successfully treat 10 or more contaminated sedimentary bedrock sites. Sedimentary bedrock treatment has recently expanded to greater depths and into karst limestone environments. This article describes the implementation issues for rock remediation and provides case studies of three sites remediated by ERH in Pennsylvania and Alabama. With proper design, the remediation of sedimentary bedrock can be completed as effectively as the remediation of overburden materials. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Constant Head Injection for Enhanced In Situ Chemical Oxidation
Authors: Pac Timothy J. , Lewis Richard W. , Gyles Ethan C.
Published: December 2014

With the successful implementation of in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) programs to remediate contaminated soil and groundwater aquifers worldwide, ISCO has become established as a traditional remediation technique. On the basis of historical success, expanded ISCO practices are now routinely applied to increasingly difficult geologic environments, including formerly problem locations such as those containing nonaqueous‐phase liquid, fractured bedrock, low‐conductivity media, and highly layered and/or heterogeneous aquifers. Effective delivery of amendment, however, remains the single most important aspect of successful remediation, particularly given the range of potentially applicable delivery methods and site complexities. Selecting the most appropriate technique for any specific site depends upon a clear understanding of the variety of site constraints, including factors such as site conditions, underlying geology, contaminant distribution, technology limitations, and other project‐specific factors. Because the injection program is often the largest cost associated with implementation of an ISCO project, it is critical to develop a cost‐effective injection method for each site. Constant head injection provides a cost‐effective alternative for sites with low‐conductivity lithology(ies). Constant head injection employs a continuous low‐pressure application method to deliver ISCO agents over a long period of time. This synergistic method complements the existing site conditions and heterogeneity, working with the natural conditions, rather than trying to overcome or destroy the site geology using highly aggressive delivery techniques. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding Causes of Leaking Plant and Equipment on Construction Sites That Can Lead to Soil and Groundwater Contamination
Authors: Guerin Turlough
Published: December 2014

Spills were inventoried and studied on a large construction site with more than 300 plant items, moving more than a million cubic meters of soil, over a one‐year period, to identify the common factors for the root causes of the majority of spills. Spills from loaders and excavators were most prevalent, which were involved in approximately 40 percent of all spill events. The majority of spills were small (30 percent) at 20 L in volume or less. The components on the plant and equipment releasing these fluids were hydraulic hoses, o‐rings (within the hydraulic systems), and hydraulic hose couplings (including failed crimped ends), which represented 50 percent of the specific spill sources on these machines. Of the 14 root cause descriptions, four could explain 60 percent of the spill incident causes. These were: “Equipment Parts Defective,” “Incorrect Procedure Followed,” “Impact With an Object,” and “Design Did Not Anticipate Conditions.” Based on these conclusions, recommendations for reducing spills are to increase rigor of inspection of hydraulic hose fittings, increase the sharing of lessons learned from spill events, and enhance the reward and recognition of operators actively preventing and reducing spills. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Revolution in Electrodes: Recent Progress in Rechargeable Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Fang Xin , Peng Huisheng
Published: December 2014

As a promising candidate for future batteries, the lithium–sulfur battery is gaining increasing interest due to its high capacity and energy density. However, over the years, lithium–sulfur batteries have been plagued by fading capacities and the low Coulombic efficiency derived from its unique electrochemical behavior, which involves solid–liquid transition reactions. Moreover, lithium–sulfur batteries employ metallic lithium as the anode, which engenders safety vulnerability of the battery. The electrodes play a pivotal role in the performance of lithium–sulfur batteries. A leap forward in progress of lithium–sulfur batteries is always accompanied by a revolution in the electrode technology. In this review, recent progress in rechargeable lithium–sulfur batteries is summarized in accordance with the evolution of the electrodes, including the diversified cathode design and burgeoning metallic‐lithium‐free anodes. Although the way toward application has still many challenges associated, recent progress in lithium–sulfur battery technology still paints an encouraging picture of a revolution in rechargeable batteries.
Mechanistic Insight into the Yolk@Shell Transformation of MnO@Silica Nanospheres Incorporating Ni2+ Ions toward a Colloidal Hollow Nanoreactor
Authors: Kim Jin Goo , Kim Soo Min , Lee In Su
Published: December 2014

As an effort to develop a simple and versatile synthetic strategy that contributes to the evolution of hollow nanostructures with increasing complexity and functionality, this research is devoted to study the hollow transformation within a nanosized solid matrix. Through an in‐depth investigation of a hollowing process of MnO nanocrystals confined within a Ni2+ incorporating silica nanosphere, a very distinct transformation pathway can be explained that produces the yolk@shell nanostructure with a single Ni nanocrystal inside a silicate nanoshell. The yolk@shell structure is developed by a mechanism combining different processes, including the formation of a (Ni0.1Mn0.9)O mixed‐metal oxide and subsequent segregation of the reduced Ni. Furthermore, this study also devises a protocol to exploit the solid‐state‐synthesized powder for fabricating a colloidal hollow nanoreactor that can selectively catalyze the reduction of nitroarenes and be recycled via the magnetic process.
Band Engineering for Novel Two‐Dimensional Atomic Layers
Authors: Zeng Qingsheng , Wang Hong , Fu Wei , Gong Yongji , Zhou Wu , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Lou Jun , Liu Zheng
Published: December 2014

The discovery of graphene has sparked much interest in science and lead to the development of an ample variety of novel two‐dimensional (2D) materials. With increasing research interest in the field of 2D materials in recent years, the researchers have shifted their focus from the synthesis to the modification of 2D materials, emphasizing their electronic structures. In this review, the possibilities of altering the band structures are discussed via three different approches: (1) alloying 2D materials, so called ternary 2D materials, such as hexagonal carbonized boron nitrides (h‐BCN) and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) ternary materials; (2) stacking 2D materials vertically, which results in 2D heterostructures named van der Waals (vdW) solids (using hexagonal boron nitrides (h‐BN)/graphene and TMDs stacking as examples), and growing lateral TMDs heterostructrues; (3) controlling the thickness of 2D materials, that is, the number of layers. The electronic properties of some 2D materials are very sensitive to the thickness, such as in TMDs and black phosphorus (BP). The variations of band structures and the resulting physical properties are systematically discussed.
Flexible a‐Si:H Solar Cells with Spontaneously Formed Parabolic Nanostructures on a Hexagonal‐Pyramid Reflector
Authors: Dong Wan Jae , Yoo Chul Jong , Cho Hyoung Won , Kim Kyoung‐Bo , Kim Moojin , Lee Jong‐Lam
Published: December 2014

Flexible amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) solar cells with high photoconversion efficiency (PCE) are demonstrated by embedding hexagonal pyramid nanostructures below a Ag/indium tin oxide (ITO) reflector. The nanostructures constructed by nanoimprint lithography using soft materials allow the top ITO electrode to spontaneously form parabolic nanostructures. Nanoimprint lithography using soft materials is simple, and is conducted at low temperature. The resulting structure has excellent durability under repeated bending, and thus, flexible nanostructures are successfully constructed on flexible a‐Si:H solar cells on plastic film. The nanoimprinted pyramid back reflector provides a high angular light scattering with haze reflectance >98% throughout the visible spectrum. The spontaneously formed parabolic nanostructure on the top surface of the a‐Si:H solar cells both reduces reflection and scatters incident light into the absorber layer, thereby elongating the optical path length. As a result, the nanopatterned a‐Si:H solar cells, fabricated on polyethersulfone (PES) film, exhibit excellent mechanical flexibility and PCE increased by 48% compared with devices on a flat substrate.
Application of Critical Systems Thinking to Performance Auditing Practice at the Indonesian Supreme Audit Institution: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Irawan Agus Bambang , McIntyre‐Mills Janet
Published: December 2014

The paper explores the reframing of performance auditing practice based on a critical systemic approach using critical systems heuristics or ‘if‐then’ thinking. The critical systems heuristics approach is applied to enhance public accountability in Indonesia. The paper aims to apply critical systemic thinking to the following area of concern: How can accountability be enhanced? A case is made for developing and extending current performance auditing processes to take into account well‐being stocks for current and future generations in Indonesia. The aim is to discuss the current challenges facing auditing and to suggest alternatives in order to make some policy suggestions as to how to reframe the performance auditing practice with regard to the following: (i) to what extent the environmental aspect on performance auditing is perceived by the auditors and (ii) how the current practice of performance auditing could be improved to promote better accountability? Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are invasives worse in freshwater than terrestrial ecosystems?
Authors: Moorhouse Tom P. , Macdonald David W.
Published: December 2014

Several lines of evidence suggest that the effects of invasive species may be greater in aquatic freshwaters than in terrestrial ecosystems. We argue that freshwaters are significantly more invasible—from a number of poorly regulated sources—and also more susceptible to negative biodiversity, physical ecosystem, and socioeconomic impacts when invaded, than their terrestrial counterparts. Moreover, the nature of freshwaters appears to result in impacts that are wide ranging and severe while being indirect, diffuse, and difficult to both detect and predict. For these reasons, we conclude that freshwater invasive species represent a special case, when compared with terrestrial invasives, in which the likelihood of negative impacts, and their effects, is disproportionately severe. We suggest that future approaches to research in this area should aim to audit the full array of impacts of a number of representative invasive species, with a view to building an evidence base to support the global implementation of a precautionary approach to the release of aquatic freshwater non‐native species. WIREs Water 2015, 2:1–8. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1059

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems
Selecting and tracking multiple objects
Authors: Scimeca Jason M. , Franconeri Steven L.
Published: December 2014

When interacting with the world, people can dynamically split attention across multiple objects in the environment, both when the objects are stationary and when the objects are moving. This type of visual processing is commonly studied in lab settings using either static selection tasks or moving tracking tasks. We describe performance limits that are common to both tasks, including limits on capacity, crowding, visual hemifield arrangement, and speed. Because these shared limits on performance suggest common underlying mechanisms, we examine a set of models that might account for limits across both. We also review cognitive neuroscience data relevant to these limits, which can provide constraints on the set of models. Finally, we examine performance limits that are unique to tracking tasks, such as trajectory encoding, and identity encoding. We argue that a complete model of multiple object tracking must account for both those limits shared between static selection and dynamic tracking, as well as limits unique to tracking. It must also provide neurally plausible mechanisms for the underlying processing resources. WIREs Cogn Sci 2015, 6:109–118. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1328

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Attention
Individual and Community Resilience Factors Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Queer and Questioning Youth and Adults in Israel
Authors: Shilo Guy , Antebi Nadav , Mor Zohar
Published: December 2014

Drawing on resilience theories, this study examined the individual and community factors of Israeli lesbians, gays, bisexuals, queers, and questioning (LGBQs) that contribute to positive mental health and the degree to which individual and community protective factors mitigate the adverse effect of risk factors for poor mental health. Differences in resilience factors between LGBQ youth and adults were explored. Data were collected on 890 LGBQ youth and adults. Findings emphasize the role of community‐level resilience factors in the lives of LGBQs, and that these support systems differ slightly between the two age groups. Among youth, family support was both a strong predictor for well‐being and a protective factor for mental distress. Although family support was found as a resilience factor among adults as well, other community‐level factors (friends’ support, LGBT connectedness and having steady partner) were found as protective factors for poorer mental health. These findings suggest for efforts on fostering familial support for LGBQ youth and a multi‐level system that offers support at the familial, peer, relationship and community levels for both LGBQ youth and adults.
Poetic Justice: Engaging in Participatory Narrative Analysis to Find Solace in the “Killer Corridor”
Authors: Dill LeConté J.
Published: December 2014

The author engaged with adolescents at a community‐based youth organization as “co‐researchers” to delve deeper into the lived experiences of youth of color residing in an urban neighborhood undergoing change. Participatory narrative analysis was used to empower participants to produce texts to make sense of their lives and their home, school, and neighborhood contexts. The process of engaging youth as co‐researchers and experts in issues pertaining to their own neighborhood is discussed. Nuanced analyses of poems‐as‐data is shown to be critical in informing the recent surge of interdisciplinary, community‐engaged, place‐based initiatives focused on neighborhood revitalization, violence prevention, and positive youth development.
Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation Promotes Erythrocyte Antioxidant Defense and Reduces Protein Nitrosative Damage in Male Athletes
Authors: Martorell M. , Capó X. , Bibiloni Mdel M. , Sureda A. , Mestre‐Alfaro A. , Batle J. M. , Llompart I. , Tur J. A. , Pons A.
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of long‐term docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) dietary supplementation on the erythrocyte fatty acid profile and oxidative balance in soccer players after training and acute exercise. Fifteen volunteer male athletes (age 20.0 ± 0.5 years) were randomly assigned to a placebo group that consumed an almond‐based beverage (n = 6), or to an experimental group that consumed the same beverage enriched with DHA (n = 9) for 8 weeks. Blood samples were taken in resting conditions at the beginning and after 8 weeks of nutritional intervention and training in resting and in post‐exercise conditions. Oxidative damage markers (malonyldialdehyde, carbonyl and nitrotyrosine indexes) and the activity and protein level of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase and peroxidase) were assessed. The results showed that training increased antioxidant enzyme activities in erythrocytes. The experimental beverage increased DHA from 34.0 ± 3.6 to 43.0 ± 3.6 nmol/109 erythrocytes. DHA supplementation increased the catalytic activity of superoxide dismutase from 1.48 ± 0.40 to 10.5 ± 0.35 pkat/109 erythrocytes, and brought about a reduction in peroxidative damage induced by training or exercise. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with DHA changed the erythrocyte membrane composition, provided antioxidant defense and reduced protein peroxidative damage in the red blood cells of professional athletes after an 8‐week training season and acute exercise.
Novel Long‐Chain Diol Phospholipids from Some Bacteria Belonging to the Class Thermomicrobia
Authors: Lagutin Kirill , MacKenzie Andrew , Houghton Karen M. , Stott Matthew B. , Vyssotski Mikhail
Published: December 2014

Polar lipids of bacteria from the class Thermomicrobia are known to contain long‐chain 1,2‐diols instead of glycerol, although the nature of polar head groups has not been investigated. We have studied phospholipid classes of two species from the class Thermomicrobia—Sphaerobacter thermophilus and Thermomicrobia sp. WKT50.2. TLC and 31P‐NMR analysis of polar lipids revealed that both S. thermophilus and Thermomicrobia sp. WKT50.2 contain the same set of four major phospholipid classes. Structures of the novel phospholipids in S.thermophilus were established as 2‐acylalkyldiol‐1‐O‐phosphoinositol, 2‐acylalkyldiol‐1‐O‐phosphoinositol mannoside, 2‐acylalkyldiol‐1‐O‐phospho‐acylmannoside, and 2‐acylalkyldiol‐1‐O‐phosphoinositol acylmannoside. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a phospholipid with a mannose directly bound to the phosphate. We also analyzed fatty acids and long‐chain 1,2‐diols of S. thermophilus and Thermomicrobia sp. WKT50.2 and compared our data with available information for T. roseum. All species share a similar set of fatty acids, with 12‐Me 18:0 being the major fatty acid. The major diol in S. thermophilus was identified as 13‐Me 19:0 (66.2 %). The 21:0 diol was the major component both in Thermomicrobia sp. WKT50.2 (50.6 %) and in T. roseum (56.6 %).
A VEP study in sleeping and awake one‐month‐old infants and its relation with social behavior
Authors: Cruz Sara , Crego Alberto , Ribeiro Eugénia , Gonçalves Óscar , Sampaio Adriana
Published: December 2014

With the present study we aimed to analyze the relationship between infants' behavior and their visual evoked‐potential (VEPs) response. Specifically, we want to verify differences regarding the VEP response in sleeping and awake infants and if an association between VEP components, in both groups, with neurobehavioral outcome could be identified. To do so, thirty‐two full‐term and healthy infants, approximately 1‐month of age, were assessed through a VEP unpatterned flashlight stimuli paradigm, offered in two different intensities, and were assessed using a neurobehavioral scale. However, only 18 infants have both assessments, and therefore, these is the total included in both analysis. Infants displayed a mature neurobehavioral outcome, expected for their age. We observed that P2 and N3 components were present in both sleeping and awake infants. Differences between intensities were found regarding the P2 amplitude, but only in awake infants. Regression analysis showed that N3 amplitude predicted an adequate social interactive and internal regulatory behavior in infants who were awake during the stimuli presentation. Taking into account that social orientation and regulatory behaviors are fundamental keys for social‐like behavior in 1‐month‐old infants, this study provides an important approach for assessing physiological biomarkers (VEPs) and its relation with social behavior, very early in postnatal development. Moreover, we evidence the importance of the infant's state when studying differences regarding visual threshold processing and its association with behavioral outcome.
Effect on micronucleus frequency and DNA damage in buccal epithelial cells of various factors among pan masala and gutkha chewers
Authors: Jyoti Smita , Siddique Yasir Hasan , Khan Saif , Naz Falaq , Rahul  , Ali Fahad
Published: December 2014

Objective: Gutkha and pan masala addiction among humans of different occupations is very common. The increase in the occurrence of oral cancer has raised a serious concern regarding the nature of these chewables.

Study design: In the present study, the effect of pan masala and gutkha was studied on micronucleus frequency and comet tail length in the buccal epithelial cells taking into consideration the duration of keeping the chewables (gutkha and pan masala) in mouth, duration of addiction, and the number of pouches of the chewables (gutkha and pan masala) consumed per day.

Results: The results of the present study reveal that the micronucleus frequency and comet tail length in buccal epithelial cells are higher in gutkha users as compared to pan masala users and also to controls.

Conclusion: The micronucleus frequency and comet tail length also depend on the duration of chewables kept in mouth, duration of addiction and the number of pouches consumed per day.