bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Trainees Effectively Deliver Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Individuals With Borderline Personality Disorder? Outcomes From a Training Clinic
Authors: Rizvi Shireen L. , Hughes Christopher D. , Hittman Alexandra D. , Vieira Oliveira Pedro
Published: February 2017

Objective

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a 6‐month course of comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) provided in a training clinic with doctoral students as therapists and assessors.

Method

Clinical outcomes for 50 individuals with borderline personality disorder (80% female, Mage = 29.52 [SD = 9.64]) are reported. Reliable change indices and clinical significance were calculated for measures. Finally, our results were benchmarked against a “gold standard” randomized clinical trial (RCT; McMain et al., 2009).

Results

Analyses with both the full sample and the treatment completers indicate significant reductions in mental health symptomatology that were reliable, clinically and statistically significant, and comparable in effect size to the benchmarked RCT.

Conclusion

This DBT training clinic produced good outcomes, comparable to that of a large RCT. Results have implications for who can provide DBT treatment, as well as improving access to DBT in community settings where training clinics may be located.
Heavy gas oil biodesulfurization by Rhodococcus erythropolis ATCC 4277: optimized culture medium composition and evaluation of low‐cost alternative media
Authors: Porto Bruna , Maass Danielle , Oliveira José Vladimir , de Oliveira Débora , Yamamoto Carlos Itsuo , Ulson de Souza Antônio Augusto , Ulson de Souza Selene Maria Arruda Guelli
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

The presence of sulfur in oils causes losses in the refining process and occasions the emission of toxic gases during fuel combustion. Biodesulfurization (BDS) is a bioprocess where some bacteria selectively remove sulfur from heterocyclic compounds. However, there are some limitations to BDS industrial application such as the high costs of the nutritional medium compounds. Previous studies with Rhodococcus erythropolis ATCC 4277 strain showed that the carbon and nitrogen concentration in culture medium significantly affected heavy gas oil (HGO) desulfurization. The aim of this present work was to optimize the nutritional medium in order to reduce the costs associated with medium formulation. The replacement of a synthetic medium by waste (cassava waste) and byproducts (trub) was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Rhodococcus erythropolis ATCC 4277 desulfurization capacity was improved by diminishing carbon source concentration from the synthetic nutritional medium. Both trub and cassava waste led to a high desulfurization rate. About 70% of sulfur compounds were removed to the three media tested, achieving a maximum desulfurization rate of 5.0×103 mg sulphur kg−1 HGO h−1.

CONCLUSION

The use of an optimized nutritional medium, cassava wastewater and trub can provide an improved methodology for BDS making potential applications in industry feasible. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of salinity on the microbial community and performance on anaerobic digestion of marine macroalgae
Authors: Zhang Yi , Alam Md Asraful , Kong Xiaoying , Wang Zhongming , Li Lianhua , Sun Yongming , Yuan Zhenhong
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

The main obstacle associated with methane production in anaerobic digestion processes from marine macroalgae is inhibited by the sea salts. This study aims to investigate the anaerobic digestion performance of marine macroalgae by acclimating inoculum to varying salinity, and to analyze the influence of salinity on microbial community by high‐throughput gene sequencing.

RESULTS

The relationship between specific methane yield and salinity followed the third‐order polynomial equation: y = 271.533 + 6.449X − 0.261X2 + 0.002X3. The acclimating inoculum produced methane efficiently at 35 g L−1 with a specific methane yield of 220.88 mL CH4 g−1 VS. Methanogenesis was considerably impeded at salinity greater than 55 g L−1. The bacterial phyla Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria and the Methanobacterium, Methanosaeta, and Methanosarcina genera in archaea were predominant at different salinities. Hydrogenotrophic methanogens such as Methanobacterium can tolerate salinity up to 85 g L−1, whereas acetoclastic methanogens, Methanosaeta and Methanosarcina were severely inhibited at salinity greater than 65 g L−1.

CONCLUSION

The acclimating inoculum can be used as anaerobic microbial resources for efficient methane production from marine macroalgae under seawater conditions of 35 g L−1. The hydrolytic, acidogenic, acetogenic bacteria and hydrogenotrophic methanogens normally metabolized at different salinities, whereas acetoclastic methanogens were severely inhibited at high saline conditions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The use of waste mussel shells for the adsorption of dyes and heavy metals
Authors: Papadimitriou Chrysi A , Krey Grigorios , Stamatis Nikolaos , Kallianiotis Argyris
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Waste mussel shells present a significant environmental problem in the area of Northern Greece, since they are produced in vast quantities and there is no legislation for their appropriate disposal or use. In the present study the waste shells were used for the removal of dyes and heavy metals from aqueous solutions while powdered mussel shells were added into activated sludge processes for the removal of hexavalent chromium.

RESULTS

Powdered mussels shells were used in standard adsorption experiments for the removal of methyl blue and methyl red as well as for the removal of Cr (VI), Cd and Cu. Also they were added into laboratory scale activated sludge reactors treating synthetic wastewater with hexavalent chromium, in order to investigate the potential attribution to the treatment efficiency.

CONCLUSION

Adsorption experiments indicated almost 100% color removal. High removal efficiencies were observed for the metals, especially in the case of chromium and cadmium reached concentrations even below 1 mg L−1. The addition of powdered mussel shells in the activated sludge processes enhanced the removal of chromium and phosphorus, while enabled the formation of heavier activated sludge flocs and thus enhanced the settling properties of the activated sludge. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinical and molecular cytogenetic analyses of four families with 1q21.1 microdeletion or microduplication
Authors: Wang Hong‐Dan , Liu Lin , Wu Dong , Li Tao , Cui Cun‐Ying , Zhang Lian‐Zhong , Wang Cheng‐Zeng
Published: February 2017

Background

Little information is available regarding the penetrance of 1q21.1 copy number variants (CNVs). In the present study, we explored the clinical significance of 1q21.1 microdeletion or microduplication.

Methods

In four families, chromosome karyotype was analyzed using G‐banding karyotype analysis technology. CNVs were detected using array‐comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and then a quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to validate candidate CNVs. Sequence signature in the breakpoint region was analyzed using University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) databases.

Results

Except for karyotype 45, XX, der (13, 14) (q10, q10) in the mother (I2) of family 2, the karyotype was normal in all other members of the four families. In the mother (I2) and fetus (II2) of family 1, in newborn (II1) of family 2 and in fetus (II1) of family 3, there was 1.22‐Mb heterozygous microdeletion in the chromosome 1q21.1q21.2 region. The child (II1) of family 4 had a 1.46‐Mb heterozygous microduplication in the chromosome 1q21.1q21.2 region. The results of the qPCR were consistent with that of aCGH. There was large number of low copy repeats (LCRs) in the breakpoint region found by analysis of the UCSC database, and multiple LCRs were matched with sequences in the chromosome 1 short‐arm region.

Conclusions

1q21.1 microdeletion and microduplication exhibit a variety of clinical manifestations and the specificity of their clinical features is not high. The penetrance of the distal 1q21.1 microdeletion may be affected by other factors in the present study. In summary, we report the discovery of a new distal 1q21.1 microduplication, which enriches the CNV spectrum in the 1q21.1 region and is conducive to prenatal genetic counseling.
The Lived Experience of the Hospital Discharge “Plan”: A Longitudinal Qualitative Study of Complex Patients
Authors: Carusone Soo Chan , O'Leary Bill , McWatt Simone , Stewart Ann , Craig Shelley , Brennan David J.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Transitions in care are a high‐risk time for patients. Complex patients account for the largest proportion of healthcare costs but experience lower quality and discontinuity of care. The experiences of complex patients can be used to identify gaps in hospital discharge practices and design interventions to improve outcomes.

METHODS

We used a case study approach with serial interviews and chart abstraction to explore the hospital discharge and transition experience over 6 weeks. Participants were recruited from a small hospital in Toronto that provides care to complex patients living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Framework analysis was used to compare data across time‐points and sources.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 9 cases. Participants presented with complex medical and psychosocial challenges, including substance use (n = 9), mental health diagnoses (n = 8) and a mean of 5 medical comorbidities in addition to HIV. Data were analyzed and reported in 4 key themes: 1) social support; 2) discharge process and transition experience; 3) post‐discharge follow‐up; and 4) patient priorities. After hospital discharge, the complexity of participants' lives resulted in a change in priorities and subsequent divergence from the discharge plan. Despite the comprehensive discharge plans, with referrals designed to support their health and activities of daily living, participants experienced challenges with social support and referral uptake, resulting in a loss of stability achieved while in hospital.

CONCLUSION

Further investigation and changes in practice are necessary to ensure that discharge plans for complex patients are realistic within the context of their lives outside of the hospital.
Post–Acute Care Reform: Implications and Opportunities for Hospitalists
Authors: Burke Robert E. , Cumbler Ethan , Coleman Eric A. , Levy Cari
Published: February 2017

Nearly all practicing hospitalists have firsthand experience discharging patients to post–acute care (PAC), which is provided by inpatient rehabilitation facilities, skilled nursing facilities, or home healthcare providers. Many may not know that PAC is poised to undergo transformative change, spurred by recent legislation resulting in a range of reforms. These reforms have the potential to fundamentally reshape the relationship between hospitals and PAC providers. They have important implications for hospitalists and will open up opportunities for hospitalists to improve healthcare value. In this article, the authors explore the reasons for PAC reform and the scope of the reforms. Then they describe the implications for hospitalists and hospitalists' opportunities to Choose Wisely and improve healthcare value for the rapidly growing number of vulnerable older adults transitioning to PAC after hospital discharge.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Fasting Orders Among Medical Inpatients
Authors: Sorita Atsushi , Thongprayoon Charat , Ratelle John T. , Bates Ruth E. , Rieck Katie M. , Devalapalli Aditya P. , Ahmed Adil , Kashiwagi Deanne T.
Published: February 2017

While many hospitalized patients have orders to fast in preparation for interventions, the extent to which these orders are necessary or adhere to evidence‐based durations is unknown. In this study, we analyzed the length, indication, and associated outcomes of nil per os (NPO) orders for general medicine patients at an academic institution in the United States, and compared them to the best available evidence for recommended length of NPO. Of 924 NPO orders assessed, the indicated intervention was not performed for 183 (19.8%) orders, largely due to a change in plan (75/183, 41.0%) or scheduling barriers (43/183, 23.5%). When analyzed by indication, the median duration of NPO orders ranged from 8.3 hours for kidney ultrasound to 13.9 hours for upper endoscopy. For some indications, the literature suggested NPO orders may be unnecessary. Furthermore, in indications for which NPO was deemed necessary in the literature, the duration of most NPO orders was much longer than minimally required. These results suggest the need for establishing more robust practice guidelines or institutional protocols for NPO orders.
MR elastography measurement of the effect of passive warmup prior to eccentric exercise on thigh muscle mechanical properties
Authors: Kennedy Paul , Macgregor Lewis J. , Barnhill Eric , Johnson Curtis L. , Perrins Michael , Hunter Angus , Brown Colin , van Beek Edwin J.R. , Roberts Neil
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To investigate the effect of warmup by application of the thermal agent Deep Heat (DH) on muscle mechanical properties using magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) at 3T before and after exercise‐induced muscle damage (EIMD).

Materials and Methods

Twenty male participants performed an individualized protocol designed to induce EIMD in the quadriceps. DH was applied to the thigh in 50% of the participants before exercise. MRE, T2‐weighted MRI, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), creatine kinase (CK) concentration, and muscle soreness were measured before and after the protocol to assess EIMD effects. Five participants were excluded: four having not experienced EIMD and one due to incidental findings.

Results

Total workload performed during the EIMD protocol was greater in the DH group than the control group (P < 0.03), despite no significant differences in baseline MVC (P = 0.23). Shear stiffness |G*| increased in the rectus femoris (RF) muscle in both groups (P < 0.03); however, DH was not a significant between‐group factor (P =  0.15). MVC values returned to baseline faster in the DH group (5 days) than the control group (7 days). Participants who displayed hyperintensity on T2‐weighted images had a greater stiffness increase following damage than those without: RF; 0.61 kPa vs. 0.15 kPa, P < 0.006, vastus intermedius; 0.34 kPa vs. 0.03 kPa, P = 0.06.

Conclusion

EIMD produces increased muscle stiffness as measured by MRE, with the change in |G*| significantly increased when T2 hyperintensity was present. DH did not affect CK concentration or soreness; however, DH participants produced greater workload during the EIMD protocol and exhibited accelerated MVC recovery.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1115–1127.
Phytosterols improve immunity and exert anti‐inflammatory activity in weaned piglets
Authors: Hu Qiaoling , Zhuo Zhao , Fang Shenglin , Zhang Yiwei , Feng Jie
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Phytosterols (PS), plant‐derived natural steroid compounds, are novel feed additives to regulate immune function and promote pig growth. This study was conducted to determine the effects of PS on the immune response of weaned piglets.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty crossbred (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) piglets with an average initial weight of 9.58 ± 0.26 kg were randomly allotted to three treatments. Treatments consisted of a control, PS (0.2 g kg−1) and polymyxin E (0.04 g kg−1, antibiotic control) treatment. The results showed that PS or polymyxin E supplementation remarkably decreased diarrhea rate and elevated CD3+CD4+/CD3+CD8+ ratio in piglets compared with the control (P < 0.05). PS increased basophil and serum interleukin‐4, and caused a shift towards Th2 profile by decreasing Th1/Th2 ratios in piglets compared with control (P < 0.05). Polymyxin E contributed to an increase in interleukin‐10 compared with the control (P < 0.05). No significant difference was observed in the amount of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium or Escherichia coli of jejunum among the three treatments (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that PS supplementation has no significant effect on growth but could remarkably decrease diarrhea rate, and improve immunity and anti‐inflammatory activity in weaned piglets. In addition, PS supplementation had similar effects on growth, anti‐inflammation and intestinal microorganisms as supplementation with polymyxin E in piglets. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Physico‐chemical and sensory properties of marmalades made from mixtures of fruits and under‐exploited Andean tubers
Authors: Lotufo Haddad Agustina M , Margalef María Isabel , Armada Margarita , Goldner María Cristina
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

This work studies the added value to the Andean tuber crops through the production of jams. The objective were: (1) to study the sensory and instrumental characteristics of dietetic marmalades made with fruits and Andean tubers; (2) to research consumer's acceptability and emotional responses; (3) to assess the relationship between sensory and instrumental variables and (4) to determine sensory, instrumental and emotional variables that influence the acceptability.

RESULTS

Pearson's correlations showed that spreadability was the variable better predicted by sensory and instrumental ones. The analysis of variance showed that sourness increased with the increase of strawberry and the decrease of apple contents (P < 0.05). The acceptability increased when the strawberry proportion was higher. The sweetness–sourness balance drove the hedonic response and some emotions changed from one feeling to its corresponding opposite when the strawberry proportion reached 50 or 60. According to a partial least square 2 and a principal components analysis of sensory/acceptability/emotion data, ‘typical’, ‘autochthonous’, ‘urban’ and ‘present’ resulted in positive emotions which favored the consumer liking.

CONCLUSION

Formulating marmalades with mixtures of fruits and Andean tubers will allow giving value‐added to these crops. The elaboration of products using innovative raw materials will be an incentive for farmers to cultivate them. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
In situ self‐assembled reduced graphene oxide aerogel embedded with nickel oxide nanoparticles for the high‐efficiency separation of ovalbumin
Authors: Chen Lei , Zheng Dong‐Hua , Zhang Ying , Wang Ya‐Ning , Xu Zhang‐Run
Published: February 2017

A three‐dimensional reduced graphene oxide aerogel with embedded nickel oxide nanoparticles was prepared by a one‐step self‐assembly reaction in a short time. The nanoparticles could be captured into the interior of reduced graphene oxide network during the formation of the three‐dimensional architecture. The composite exhibited porosity, good biocompatibility, and abundant metal affinity binding sites. The aerogel was used to isolate ovalbumin selectively from egg white, and favorable adsorption was achieved at pH 3. An adsorption efficiency of 90.6% was obtained by using 1 mg of the composite for adsorbing 70 μg/mL of ovalbumin in 1.0 mL of sample solution, and afterwards a recovery of 90.7% was achieved by using an eluent of 1.0 mL Britton–Robinson buffer solution at pH 5. After the adsorption/desorption, ovalbumin showed no change in the conformation. The adsorption behavior of ovalbumin on the reduced graphene oxide composite well fitted to the Langmuir adsorption model, and a corresponding theoretical maximum adsorption capacity was 1695.2 mg/g. A sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis assay demonstrated that the aerogel could selectively isolate ovalbumin from chicken egg white.
Are Emotionally Intelligent Employees Less Likely to Hide Their Knowledge?
Authors: de Geofroy Zoé , Evans M. Max
Published: February 2017

In today's knowledge‐intensive economy, organizations are constantly faced with new challenges to be more innovative (Salaman & Storey,). Therefore, they have increasingly viewed knowledge management (KM) as an important strategy. Many have even implemented explicit knowledge sharing (KS) practices in an attempt to maintain their competitive advantage and improve performance (Hsu,; Law & Ngai,). However, much of the knowledge utilized by the organization is out of its control since it is held and managed at the individual level. Moreover, employees often choose to conceal this knowledge (Connellyet al.,; Peng,; Connelly & Zweig,; Demirkasimoglu,) a phenomenon known as knowledge hiding (KH). This paper reviews the literature on KH and on Emotional Intelligence (EI) theory and practice, arguing that there is a potential connection between the two. Specifically, KH may be reduced, through increasedteamwork,trust, andorganizational commitment, which are all outcomes of high EI in employees.

A narrative overview approach (Green et al.,) was used to find, synthesize, and review the literature. A search of the available research literature was performed across some of the major digital library sources including the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), Emerald, Google Scholar and ProQuest databases. A meta‐synthesis was then used to integrate, evaluate, and interpret the findings. The resulting review provides a summary of the current literature and offers a rationale for conducting future research. This paper is useful for both academics and practitioners who are concerned with the incorporation of EI practices into their KM strategies. It could also provide further insight into organizational KM strategy, specifically relating to hiring, training, and promoting KM processes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Round window stimulation with the Vibrant Soundbridge: Comparison of direct and indirect coupling
Authors: Olszewski Lukasz , Jedrzejczak W. Wiktor , Piotrowska Anna , Skarzynski Henryk
Published: February 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

The purpose of this study was to measure the degree of coupling between the floating mass transducer (FMT) and the round window membrane (RWM) in patients with conductive and mixed hearing loss implanted with the Vibrant Soundbridge (VSB) device. The efficiency of direct and indirect coupling of the FMT to the RWM was compared by measuring differences between the initial prescription targets and the final settings of the VSB audio processor after fine‐tuning.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Investigation of a group of subjects with either conductive or mixed hearing loss implanted with the VSB, a device that uses a FMT coupled to the RWM. There were two subgroups: subjects in which coupling was direct (no interposed material) or indirect (interposed material). The functional gain, insertion gain, and compression characteristics of the device were measured to assess the efficiency of coupling and to investigate the proximity of the fitting to prescriptive targets.

Results

Coupling for the subgroup with indirect coupling of the RWM was higher (better) than for the subgroup with direct coupling. The gain deviation from prescriptive targets was smaller for the subgroup with indirect coupling.

Conclusions

The coupling method can have an effect on the coupling efficiency and the final electroacoustic settings of the device. The prescription targets were not accurate for the majority of subjects from either subgroup. Indirect coupling appears to provide more effective stimulation of the cochlea.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2843–2849, 2017
Ash Physical Characteristics Affects Differently Soil Hydrology and Erosion Subprocesses
Authors: Thomaz Edivaldo L.
Published: February 2017

After slash‐and‐burn agriculture, topsoil becomes covered by ash layers of various colors. The different colored ashes have particular properties that may affect the hydro‐erosional processes on hillslopes in different ways. In the present study, the effects of black and gray ashes on the hydro‐erosional processes were examined in the context of slash‐and‐burn, and the soil erosion subprocesses responsible for soil loss were identified. Black and gray ashes were collected in the field after two slash‐and‐burn fires. The experiment was conducted in wettable, clay‐textured, brown oxisols. In the laboratory, the ash was spread carefully by hand over a plot of 0·14 m2. Simulated rainfall was discharged from a height of 6 m from the central plot for a period of 30 min with a rainfall intensity of 58 mm h−1. Gray ash reduced infiltration five times more than black ash and four times more than bare soil. The runoff coefficient showed black ash with minor runoff of ~7%, bare soil displayed intermediate runoff of ~12%, and gray ash exhibited the major runoff coefficient of 19%. Gray ash generated six and three and a half times more sediment than black ash and bare soil, respectively. This study determined that soil hydrology is affected more by ash cover than soil loss. Black ash protects against soil erosion and improves soil water infiltration; gray ash dramatically changes the topsoil hydrology and interill erosion processes; and bare soil and soil cover with different ash colors lose soil through different erosion subprocesses. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Yield Response of Mediterranean Rangelands under a Changing Climate
Authors: Daliakopoulos Ioannis N. , Panagea Ioanna S. , Tsanis Ioannis K. , Grillakis Manolis G. , Koutroulis Aristeidis G. , Hessel Rudi , Mayor Angeles G. , Ritsema Coen J.
Published: February 2017

Understanding the Mediterranean rangelands degradation trends is a key element of mitigating their vulnerability and enhancing their resilience. Climate change and its inherent effects on mean temperature and the precipitation variability can regulate the magnitude, frequency and duration of droughts and aridity with a profound effect on ecosystem productivity. Here we investigate the effects of climate change to project the development of vegetation in the Mediterranean rangelands by (i) estimating the relative Standardized Precipitation Index and a modification of the United Nations Environment Programme Aridity Index to classify climate variability, and (ii) modelling vegetation response to climate using the Food and Agriculture Organisation crop–water production function. Climate model data are obtained from nine general circulation models under Relative Concentration Pathways 2.6 and 8.5 of the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project. After correcting climate model data for biases, results for two 40‐year future study periods are compared with the baseline period 1961–2000 within a domain that includes the European Mediterranean. We show that a gradual but robust increase of aridity and drought frequency is estimated for most of the Mediterranean region, impacting rangeland vegetation yields. Projected drought and aridity disturbances may well represent permanent shifts to a warmer and more frequently dry status. This alternative stability of climatic pressure lies outside the limits of ecosystem resilience and may indicate that in some cases vegetation will either adapt to the new conditions or be succeeded by more water‐stress tolerant species. Results raise concerns about the fate of the Mediterranean rangelands and the effectiveness of mitigation measures. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Fundamental Causes of High Environmental Alkalinity (pH ≥ 9): An Assessment of Its Drivers and Global Distribution
Authors: Jobbágy Esteban G. , Tóth Tibor , Nosetto Marcelo D. , Earman Sam
Published: February 2017

Very alkaline environments exceeding calcite buffering are globally rare but conspicuous in many sedimentary plains of the World. While the deleterious effects of high alkalinity on soils are well understood, less agreement exists on its causes. We revise these causes to understand these exceptional environments and explain the pervasiveness of calcite buffering elsewhere. We argue that the injection of respired CO2 into stagnant hydrological systems subject to evaporative discharge is the key context for high alkalinization. The evolution of evaporites in nature reaches highly alkaline stages only when excess of (bi)carbonate with respect to divalent cations occurs. In most dry landscapes, evaporating groundwater solutions lose this condition as respired inorganic carbon (recharge zone supply) equilibrates with divalent cations from rocks (whole hydro‐trajectory supply). Groundwater in stagnant landscapes avoids this limitation owing to short/shallow trajectories sustaining (bi)carbonate excess until evaporative discharge zones are reached. Flat sedimentary landscapes that are (i) wet enough to develop stagnation and have shallow water tables but (ii) sufficiently dry to expose them to evaporative concentration should host very alkaline soils. This is confirmed with >9,000 soil profiles from the global WISE database, which shows that profiles with pH ≥ 9 in the top meter are 2·7% globally but 18% in areas with low slope (<0·05%, 25‐km radius, SRTM digital elevation model (SRTM DEM)) and semiarid–subhumid climate (annual precipitation to potential evapotranspiration ratio = 0·2–1, CRU database). Understanding how climate and vegetation change as well as irrigation practices influence hydrological stagnation and evaporative concentration may provide the key to manage very alkaline environments. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative long‐term measurements of burns in a rat model using Spatial Frequency Domain Imaging (SFDI) and Laser Speckle Imaging (LSI)
Authors: Ponticorvo Adrien , Burmeister David M. , Rowland Rebecca , Baldado Melissa , Kennedy Gordon T. , Saager Rolf , Bernal Nicole , Choi Bernard , Durkin Anthony J.
Published: February 2017

Background and Ojectives

The current standard for diagnosis of burn severity and subsequent wound healing is through clinical examination, which is highly subjective. Several new technologies are shifting focus to burn care in an attempt to help quantify not only burn depth but also the progress of healing. While accurate early assessment of partial thickness burns is critical for dictating the course of treatment, the ability to quantitatively monitor wound status over time is critical for understanding treatment efficacy. SFDI and LSI are both non‐invasive imaging modalities that have been shown to have great diagnostic value for burn severity, but have yet to be tested over the course of wound healing.

Methods

In this study, a hairless rat model (n = 6, 300–450 g) was used with a four pronged comb to create four identical partial thickness burns (superficial n = 3 and deep n = 3) that were used to monitor wound healing over a 28 days period. Weekly biopsies were taken for histological analysis to verify wound progression. Both SFDI and LSI were performed weekly to track the evolution of hemodynamic (blood flow and oxygen saturation) and structural (reduced scattering coefficient) properties for the burns.

Results

LSI showed significant changes in blood flow from baseline to 220% in superficial and 165% in deep burns by day 7. In superficial burns, blood flow returned to baseline levels by day 28, but not for deep burns where blood flow remained elevated. Smaller increases in blood flow were also observed in the surrounding tissue over the same time period. Oxygen saturation values measured with SFDI showed a progressive increase from baseline values of 66–74% in superficial burns and 72% in deep burns by day 28. Additionally, SFDI showed significant decreases in the reduced scattering coefficient shortly after the burns were created. The scattering coefficient progressively decreased in the wound area, but returned towards baseline conditions at the end of the 28 days period. Scattering changes in the surrounding tissue remained constant despite the presence of hemodynamic changes.

Conclusions

Here, we show that LSI and SFDI are capable of monitoring changes in hemodynamic and scattering properties in burn wounds over a 28 days period. These results highlight the potential insights that can be gained by using non‐invasive imaging technologies to study wound healing. Further development of these technologies could be revolutionary for wound monitoring and studying the efficacy of different treatments. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:293–304, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Living donor liver transplantation during the first 3 months of life
Authors: Kasahara Mureo , Sakamoto Seisuke , Sasaki Kengo , Uchida Hajime , Kitajima Toshihiro , Shigeta Takanobu , Narumoto Soichi , Hirata Yoshihiro , Fukuda Akinari
Published: February 2017

Living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is now an established technique for treating children with end‐stage liver disease. Few data exist about liver transplantation (LT) for exclusively young infants, especially infants of <3 months of age. We report our single‐center experience with 12 patients in which LDLT was performed during the first 3 months of life and compare the results with those of older infants who underwent LT. All of the patients were treated at the National Center of Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan. Between November 2005 to November 2016, 436 children underwent LT. Twelve of these patients underwent LT in the first 3 months of life (median age, 41 days; median weight, 4.0 kg). The indications for transplantation were fulminant hepatic failure (n = 11) and metabolic liver disease (n = 1). All the patients received the left lateral segment (LLS) in situ to mitigate the problem of graft‐to‐recipient size discrepancy. A reduced LLS graft was used in 11 patients and a segment 2 monosegment graft was used in 1 patient. We compared the results with those of infants who were 4‐6 months of age (n = 67) and 7‐12 months of age (n = 110) who were treated in the same study period. There were significant differences in the Pediatric End‐Stage Liver Disease score and the conversion rate of tacrolimus to cyclosporine in younger infants. Furthermore, the incidence of biliary complications, bloodstream infection, and cytomegalovirus infection tended to be higher, whereas the incidence of acute cellular rejection tended to be lower in younger infants. The overall cumulative 10‐year patient and graft survival rates in recipients of <3 months of age were both 90.9%. LDLT during the first 3 months of life appears to be a feasible option with excellent patient and graft survival. Liver Transplantation 23 1051–1057 2017 AASLD.
Effect of Polyethylene on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Particleboard
Authors: Waelaeh Salwanee , Tanrattanakul Varaporn , Phunyarat Kittisak , Panupakorn Pimpatima , Junnam Kittitat
Published: February 2017

Particleboard is a common material used in furniture manufacturing. In the present study, it is made from natural rubber wood in the form of coarse and fine particles which is glued with urea formaldehyde adhesive. Because of the cellulosic structure containing many hydroxyl groups, the particleboard becomes a hygroscopic product. The objective of the present study was to increase the water resistance of the particleboard by adding polyethylene (PE). Four grades of PE were selected and mixed with the rubber wood particles before forming as a three‐layer particleboard. Water absorption and thickness swelling were determined. The mechanical properties of the particleboard were evaluated including modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), internal bond strength (IB) and screw holding force. It is found that the addition of 5 wt% PE decreased the thickness swelling at 2 h, e.g. from 19.27% to 13.18–17.16%, and at 24 h, e.g. from 23.81% to 16.88–21.04%. The presence of 5 wt% PE also decreased the water absorption at 2 h, e.g. from 56.17% to 42.01–52.98%, and at 24 h, e.g. from 70.89% to 58.63–66.76%. LDPE D209 and LDPE 2420T showed high potential in this application because they enhanced the water resistance and slightly increased the internal bond strength of the particleboard. MOR and MOE of particleboard could be ranked in the following order: D209 > control > 2420T.
Enhanced Detection of Nitrite Ions Over Copper Acetylacetonate/Polymeric Carbon Nitride Composites
Authors: Jasman Siti Maryam , Lintang Hendrik O. , Yuliati Leny
Published: February 2017

Nitrogen containing compounds such as nitrite ions () may cause contaminations to the environment, food and drinking water, and they have a negative effect on human health. In this study, a novel fluorescence sensor was developed by modification of polymeric carbon nitride (CN) with copper(II) acetylacetonate (Cu(acac)2). The polymeric CN was prepared by using urea as a precursor via thermal polymerization technique, while the Cu(acac)2 was introduced onto the polymeric CN via an impregnation method. The formation of polymeric CN can be confirmed from the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and the diffuse reflectance ultraviolet visible (DR UV‐Vis) spectroscopies. The polymeric CN exhibited three excitation peaks at 277, 315, and 370 nm owing to the presence of CN, CO, and CN groups, respectively, while there was only one emission peak observed at 455 nm. The emission intensity was decreased with the increase of Cu(acac)2 loading, suggesting certain interactions between the polymeric CN and the added Cu(acac)2. The performances of the polymeric CN and Cu(acac)2/CN composites as fluorescence sensors were evaluated for detection with concentration range of 0.5‐4 μM. It was revealed that the CN sites in the polymeric CN were the most favored quenching sites for the . With the addition of Cu(acac)2 (0.1 mol%), the quenching rate for CN sites was enhanced two times higher than that of the polymeric CN. This study demonstrated that the composite is a promising fluorescence sensor for the detection of .
Preparation of Epoxy Composite Hollow Microspheres (ECHM) Using Toluenesulfonyl Hydrazide (TSH) as Blowing Agent
Authors: Nayan Nurul Ain Mohd , Leemsuthep Anusha , Zakaria Zunaida , Uy Lan Du Ngoc
Published: February 2017

The epoxy composite hollow microspheres (ECHM) was prepared by single emulsion technique. Porofor Toluenesulfonyl hydrazide (TSH) 75 was used as blowing agent. Carbon black was used as filler for polyamide‐epoxy adduct matrix, which was reverted ratio of 1:2 epoxy to polyamide. The epoxy mixture (internal phase) was dropped and stirred into a heated corn oil (external phase) to form spherical droplets. These epoxy droplets underwent two simultaneous mechanisms of curing and foaming and became hollow microspheres. As expected, higher TSH content produced lower density of ECHM because of more expansion in ECHM. This fact was also evident from the size of hollow microspheres observed by using scanning electron microscope. In addition, high TSH content of 16 phr induced higher thermal properties of ECHM compared to those of ECHM using 8 phr and 12 phr TSH.
Wave‐CAIPI for highly accelerated MP‐RAGE imaging
Authors: Polak Daniel , Setsompop Kawin , Cauley Stephen F. , Gagoski Borjan A. , Bhat Himanshu , Maier Florian , Bachert Peter , Wald Lawrence L. , Bilgic Berkin
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To introduce a highly accelerated T1‐weighted magnetization‐prepared rapid gradient echo (MP‐RAGE) acquisition that uses wave‐controlled aliasing in parallel imaging (wave‐CAIPI) encoding to retain high image quality.

Methods

Significant acceleration of the MP‐RAGE sequence is demonstrated using the wave‐CAIPI technique. Here, sinusoidal waveforms are used to spread aliasing in all three directions to improve the g‐factor. Combined with a rapid (2 s) coil sensitivity acquisition and data‐driven trajectory calibration, we propose an online integrated acquisition‐reconstruction pipeline for highly efficient MP‐RAGE imaging.

Results

The 9‐fold accelerated MP‐RAGE acquisition can be performed in 71 s, with a maximum and average g‐factor of gmax = 1.27 and gavg = 1.06 at 3T. Compared with the state‐of‐the‐art method controlled aliasing in parallel imaging results in higher acceleration (2D‐CAIPIRINHA), this is a factor of 4.6/1.4 improvement in gmax/gavg. In addition, we demonstrate a 57 s acquisition at 7T with 12‐fold acceleration. This acquisition has a g‐factor performance of gmax = 1.15 and gavg = 1.04.

Conclusion

Wave encoding overcomes the g‐factor noise amplification penalty and allows for an order of magnitude acceleration of MP‐RAGE acquisitions. Magn Reson Med 79:401–406, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Early postpartum pelvic floor changes in primiparous women after vaginal delivery using 3T MRI
Authors: Alt Céline D. , Hampel Franziska , Radtke Jan Philipp , Hallscheidt Peter , Schlehe Bettina , Sohn Christof , Brocker Kerstin A.
Published: February 2017

AIMS

Detection of early morphological pelvic floor changes after vaginal delivery in primiparous women using 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging.

METHODS

A 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging was performed using static T2‐weighted turbo spin echo (tse) in three planes, T2‐weighted tse fat saturated and T1‐weighted sequence in transverse plane. All visible changes of pelvic structures (edema, hematoma, tear, or avulsion) were documented. Measurements for the integrity of the pelvic floor were performed and compared to a nulliparous control‐group. Differences in pelvic floor parameters were analyzed using an unpaired t‐test. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Twenty‐five primiparous women delivered vaginally at term and underwent postpartum magnetic resonance imaging. Several morphological changes in the pelvis, superficial as well as deep, were detected in all participants. Anteroposterior hiatus, hiatal circumference, hiatal area, laterolateral hiatus, maximum muscle thickness, and levator urethra gap were significantly different to the nulliparous control‐group.

CONCLUSIONS

Two‐dimensional 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging is feasible in a clinical and early postpartum setting establishing a reliable diagnostic tool to evaluate numerous morphological pelvic floor changes and the integrity of the pelvic floor.
Turkish validation of the urethral stricture surgery specific patient‐reported outcome measure (USS‐PROM) with supplemental assessment of erectile function and morbidity due to oral graft harvesting
Authors: Önol Fikret Fatih , Bindayi Ahmet , Tahra Ahmet , Basibuyuk Ismail , Onol Sinasi Yavuz
Published: February 2017

AIMS

We validated a Turkish language version of the urethral stricture surgery specific patient‐reported outcome measure (USS‐PROM) in men undergoing anterior urethroplasty. We also investigated changes in erectile function (EF) and quality of life (QoL) due to oral mucosa graft (OMG) harvesting.

METHODS

The USS‐PROM captures lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), health related QoL (HRQoL) with EQ‐5D visual analogue scale (EQ‐VAS). To evaluate EF and OMG morbidity, we used International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) and a self‐completed questionnaire, respectively. Psychometric assessment of USS‐PROM included test‐retest reliability, internal consistency, criterion validity, and responsiveness. Objective evidence for urethroplasty success was demonstrated with fluoroscopic imaging and urethral calibration at post‐operative six months.

RESULTS

Among the 101 men included during study period, 42 had complete pre‐ and postoperative 6th month data for analysis. The test‐retest intraclass correlation was 0.79. Cronbach's α for internal consistency of the LUTS construct was 0.79. There was a significant negative correlation between total LUTS scores and peak flow rates, both preoperatively (r = −0.478) and postoperatively (r = −0.508). Mean baseline EQ‐VAS increased from 70 to 84 postoperatively (P < 0.001), indicating improved HRQoL. IIEF scores did not change significantly after urethroplasty. Early and late‐term QoL impairment rates due to OMG harvesting were 28.9 and 13.1%, respectively. Three (7.1%) men required endoscopic intervention for recurrence within 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Turkish version of USS‐PROM showed comparable psychometric properties with the original version. Complementation of this instrument with additional measures that address sexual function and OMG morbidity provides better QoL assessment for urethral reconstruction.
Quantitative analysis of Shigella flexneri protein expression under acid stress
Authors: Yu Kaiwen , Wang Zhen , Zhou Fan , Jiang Jiezhang , Liu Yanhua , Hu Mo , Liu Xiaoyun
Published: February 2017

As an important foodborne pathogen, Shigella flexneri can cause widespread enteric infection with bacteria as few as hundreds. This is, at least in part, attributed to its robust anti‐acid strategies because passage through the highly acidic human digestive tract is a prerequisite for successful bacterial infection. Nevertheless, our understanding of these mechanisms and the impact of acid stress on Shigella protein expression still remains largely incomplete. Herein we conducted a proteomic survey of Shigella spp. under acid stress. Out of 1754 protein identifications, we found 131 altered proteins, most of which were down‐regulated, including virulence factors and cell envelope proteins. Rather, many metabolic enzymes and pyrimidine/amino acid biosynthesis proteins were up‐regulated. In addition to induction of many known anti‐acid systems, we also found marked increase of 2‐oxoglutarate dehydrogenase (SucAB), a metabolic enzyme in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Importantly, overproduction of this enzyme significantly enhanced Shigella acid resistance and hence SucAB‐mediated metabolic pathways may represent novel anti‐acid strategies.
Dielectrophoretic Condensation and Tailored Phase Separation in Graphene Oxide Liquid Crystals
Authors: Hong Seung‐Ho , Shen Tian‐Zi , Lee Bomi , Song Jang‐Kun
Published: February 2017

The authors demonstrate electric‐field‐induced isotropic–nematic or biphase–nematic phase separation using dielectrophoretic condensation of graphene oxide (GO) particles in a dispersion medium. Phase separation using dielectrophoresis (DEP) has several advantages over gravity‐induced phase separation: the concentration of a DEP‐induced nematic can be controlled over a wider range, the spatial shape of phase separation can be arbitrary tailored through electrode design, and the GO particles are better aligned. Using optical absorption and birefringence of wet samples and microscopy observations of freeze‐dried fracture samples, the alignment and density modulation of GO particles in the DEP cell are investigated. This work demonstrates that DEP is a simple and useful tool to control the local phases, density, and GO alignment in wet dispersions.
Plasmonic Particles with Unique Optical Interaction and Mechanical Motion Properties
Authors: Li Jiafang , Liu Jing , Tian Ximin , Li Zhi‐Yuan
Published: February 2017

Metal nanoparticles have unique localized surface plasmon resonance (SPR) properties due to the strong interaction of localized surface plasmon polariton (SPP) with incident light. This review will cover some of our recent theoretical and experimental studies on exploring the unique optical interaction and mechanical motion properties of plasmonic particles that originate from SPR enhanced light‐matter interaction. Firstly, the efficient enhancement of both the fluorescence excitation and emission process of dye molecules by the double SPR modes (longitudinal and transverse modes) in gold nanorods, and surface plasmon amplification in metal nanoparticles with gain is discussed. Secondly, it is theoretically demonstrated that two basic physical processes of molecules interacting with light, i.e., the elastic Rayleigh scattering and inelastic Raman scattering, will strongly intertwine and correlate with each other in many plasmonic surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and tip‐enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) nanosystems. Thirdly, it is experimentally shown that SPR can enhance the optical force and torque of nanoparticles embedded within non‐intrusive optical tweezers. The work presented in this review shows that plasmonic particles can possess unique optical interaction and mechanical motion properties when their geometries are deliberately controlled.