bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of dwarf bamboos (Indocalamus sp.) leaf parameters to determine relationship between spatial density of plants and total leaf area per plant
Authors: Shi Pei‐Jian , Xu Qiang , Sandhu Hardev S. , Gielis Johan , Ding Yu‐Long , Li Hua‐Rong , Dong Xiao‐Bo
Published: September 2015

The relationship between spatial density and size of plants is an important topic in plant ecology. The self‐thinning rule suggests a −3/2 power between average biomass and density or a −1/2 power between stand yield and density. However, the self‐thinning rule based on total leaf area per plant and density of plants has been neglected presumably because of the lack of a method that can accurately estimate the total leaf area per plant. We aimed to find the relationship between spatial density of plants and total leaf area per plant. We also attempted to provide a novel model for accurately describing the leaf shape of bamboos. We proposed a simplified Gielis equation with only two parameters to describe the leaf shape of bamboos one model parameter represented the overall ratio of leaf width to leaf length. Using this method, we compared some leaf parameters (leaf shape, number of leaves per plant, ratio of total leaf weight to aboveground weight per plant, and total leaf area per plant) of four bamboo species of genus Indocalamus Nakai (I. pedalis (Keng) P.C. Keng, I. pumilus Q.H. Dai and C.F. Keng, I. barbatus McClure, and I. victorialis P.C. Keng). We also explored the possible correlation between spatial density and total leaf area per plant using log‐linear regression. We found that the simplified Gielis equation fit the leaf shape of four bamboo species very well. Although all these four species belonged to the same genus, there were still significant differences in leaf shape. Significant differences also existed in leaf area per plant, ratio of leaf weight to aboveground weight per plant, and leaf length. In addition, we found that the total leaf area per plant decreased with increased spatial density. Therefore, we directly demonstrated the self‐thinning rule to improve light interception.
Synthesis of Thieno[3,2‐e][1,4]diazepin‐2‐ones: Application of an Uncatalysed Pictet–Spengler Reaction
Authors: Denoyelle Séverine , Tambutet Guillaume , Masurier Nicolas , Maillard Ludovic T. , Martinez Jean , Lisowski Vincent
Published: October 2015

A series of 5‐substituted thieno[3,2‐e][1,4]diazepin‐2‐ones was synthesized in four steps from methyl 3‐aminothiophene‐2‐carboxylate. After the coupling of 3‐aminothiophene with α‐amino acids, the key final step that involves an uncatalysed Pictet–Spengler reaction allowed the cyclization of the seven‐membered diazepinone ring. The reaction was first optimized and then exemplified in three different series (phenylalanine, alanine and proline) that led to 24 target diazepinones, which includes 19 optically pure diastereomers.
Synthesis of 5‐/8‐Halogenated or Ethynylated Lipophilic Nucleobases as Potential Synthetic Intermediates for Supramolec­ular Chemistry
Authors: Bilbao Nerea , Vázquez‐González Violeta , Aranda M. Teresa , González‐Rodríguez David
Published: October 2015

A series of lipophilic nucleobases that are substituted at the 5‐ (pyrimidines) or 8‐ (purines) position with either a halogen atom or a terminal triple bond have been synthesized. The sequences and reactions studied in this work, which mainly comprise halogenation, alkylation, Sonogashira coupling, and trimethylsilylacetylene deprotection, have been carefully optimized, to reach the final compounds in the most straightforward and convenient way, with the highest possible purity and yield. These compounds include cytosine, isocytosine, and uracil derivatives as pyrimidine heterocycles, and guanine, isoguanine, and 2‐aminoadenine derivatives as complementary purine bases. Variability was introduced at the N‐1/N‐9 positions of these pyrimidine/purine nucleobases, which were functionalized with alkyl or benzyl groups, as well as with protected amine or carboxylic acid substituents. The molecules prepared constitute a useful collection of synthetic intermediates for the field of chemical self‐assembly.
Time Series of Zero‐Inflated Counts and their Coherent Forecasting
Authors: Maiti Raju , Biswas Atanu , Das Samarjit
Published: October 2015

Poisson integer‐valued auto‐regressive process of order 1 (PINAR(1)) due to Al‐Osh and Alzaid (Journal of Time Series Analysis1987;8(3): 261–275) and McKenzie (Advances in Applied Probability1988;20(4): 822–835) has received a significant attention in modelling low‐count time series during the last two decades because of its simplicity. But in many practical scenarios, the process appears to be inadequate, especially when data are overdispersed in nature. This overdispersion occurs mainly for three reasons: presence of some extreme values, large number of zeros, and presence of both extreme values with a large number of zeros. In this article, we develop a zero‐inflated Poisson INAR(1) process as an alternative to the PINAR(1) process when the number of zeros in the data is larger than the expected number of zeros by the Poisson process. We investigate some important properties such as stationarity, ergodicity, autocorrelation structure, and conditional distribution, with a detailed study onh‐step‐ahead coherent forecasting. A comparative study among different methods of parameter estimation is carried out using some simulated data. One real dataset is analysed for practical illustration. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognostic and mechanistic potential of progesterone sulfates in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and pruritus gravidarum
Authors: Abu‐Hayyeh Shadi , Ovadia Caroline , Lieu TinaMarie , Jensen Dane D. , Chambers Jenny , Dixon Peter H. , Lövgren‐Sandblom Anita , Bolier Ruth , Tolenaars Dagmar , Kremer Andreas E. , Syngelaki Argyro , Noori Muna , Williams David , Marin Jose J.G. , Monte Maria J. , Nicolaides Kypros H. , Beuers Ulrich , Oude‐Elferink Ronald , Seed Paul T. , Chappell Lucy , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich , Bunnett Nigel W. , Williamson Catherine
Published: October 2015

A challenge in obstetrics is to distinguish pathological symptoms from those associated with normal changes of pregnancy, typified by the need to differentiate whether gestational pruritus of the skin is an early symptom of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) or due to benign pruritus gravidarum. ICP is characterized by raised serum bile acids and complicated by spontaneous preterm labor and stillbirth. A biomarker for ICP would be invaluable for early diagnosis and treatment and to enable its differentiation from other maternal diseases. Three progesterone sulfate compounds, whose concentrations have not previously been studied, were newly synthesized and assayed in the serum of three groups of ICP patients and found to be significantly higher in ICP at 9‐15 weeks of gestation and prior to symptom onset (group 1 cases/samples: ICP n = 35/80, uncomplicated pregnancy = 29/100), demonstrating that all three progesterone sulfates are prognostic for ICP. Concentrations of progesterone sulfates were associated with itch severity and, in combination with autotaxin, distinguished pregnant women with itch that would subsequently develop ICP from pruritus gravidarum (group 2: ICP n = 41, pruritus gravidarum n = 14). In a third group of first‐trimester samples all progesterone sulfates were significantly elevated in serum from low‐risk asymptomatic women who subsequently developed ICP (ICP/uncomplicated pregnancy n = 54/51). Finally, we show mechanistically that progesterone sulfates mediate itch by evoking a Tgr5‐dependent scratch response in mice. Conclusion: Our discovery that sulfated progesterone metabolites are a prognostic indicator for ICP will help predict onset of ICP and distinguish it from benign pruritus gravidarum, enabling targeted obstetric care to a high‐risk population. Delineation of a progesterone sulfate‐TGR5 pruritus axis identifies a therapeutic target for itch management in ICP. (Hepatology 2016;63:1287–1298)
Impact of model simplifications on soil erosion predictions: application of the GLUE methodology to a distributed event‐based model at the hillslope scale
Authors: Cea Luis , Legout Cedric , Grangeon Thomas , Nord Guillaume
Published: October 2015

In this paper, we analyse how the performance and calibration of a distributed event‐based soil erosion model at the hillslope scale is affected by different simplifications on the parameterizations used to compute the production of suspended sediment by rainfall and runoff. Six modelling scenarios of different complexity are used to evaluate the temporal variability of the sedimentograph at the outlet of a 60 m long cultivated hillslope. The six scenarios are calibrated within the generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation framework in order to account for parameter uncertainty, and their performance is evaluated against experimental data registered during five storm events. The Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency, percent bias and coverage performance ratios show that the sedimentary response of the hillslope in terms of mass flux of eroded soil can be efficiently captured by a model structure including only two soil erodibility parameters, which control the rainfall and runoff production of suspended sediment. Increasing the number of parameters makes the calibration process more complex without increasing in a noticeable manner the predictive capability of the model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perceived Norms, Outcome Expectancies, and Collegiate Drinking: Examining the Mediating Role of Drinking Motives
Authors: Wahesh Edward , Lewis Todd F. , Wyrick David L. , Ackerman Terry A.
Published: October 2015

The authors examined the mediational role of drinking motives in explaining the associations among psychosocial antecedents and collegiate drinking. Results indicated that drinking motives partially mediated the relationships between outcome expectancies, perceived norms, alcohol use intensity, and alcohol‐related negative consequences.
Predictors of Hypersexual Behavior Among College Men and Women: Exploring Self‐Conscious Emotions
Authors: Giordano Amanda L. , Prosek Elizabeth A. , Cecil Audrey L. , Brown Joshua
Published: October 2015

The authors examined self‐conscious emotions as predictors of hypersexual behavior among 235 college students. Among men, shame‐proneness and externalization predicted higher hypersexual behavior, whereas guilt‐proneness and detachment were associated with lower hypersexual behavior. Detachment predicted higher hypersexual behavior among women.
Preparation of silicon‐modified antimicrobial polyethylene endotracheal tubes
Authors: Jiang Xuhong , Lv Bin , Shen Qianhong , Wang Xinmin
Published: October 2015

Antimicrobial coating of polyethylene endotracheal tubes (PE ETTs) has proven to be an effective method to prevent endoluminal biofilm formation. A transparent silicon‐modified antimicrobial PE ETT was obtained by coating PE with a SiO2/γ‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (KH‐570)/methyltriethoxysilane (MTES)/Ag‐SiO2 solution prepared by chemically mixing Ag‐SiO2 with SiO2/KH‐570/MTES in solution via a dip‐coating method, with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as the inorganic silicon source, followed by drying. All the films were characterized by various techniques, including the pencil hardness test, infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, UV–vis analysis, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). The results indicated that the TEOS/KH‐570/MTES/Ag‐SiO2 (15:6:1:0.6–1.0) films, which exhibited simple in‐solution film formation on PE ETTs, had a homogeneous morphology, high transmittance above 87%, high hardness of 5H and strong adhesion to the tubes. The concentration of Ag+ ion dissolved out from the antibacterial coating is very low in ICP‐MS results. The antibacterial test results show that the antibacterial coatings have excellent antibacterial property with antibacterial ratio up to 93.5% when Ag‐SiO2 content is 2.6%. In pyrogen test and hemolytic test, the body temperature of rabbits rise 0.03°c for 3 h after inserting antibacterial PE ETT, and the hemolytic ratio is 0.7512%, which conform to the requirements of biomedical material. The results preliminarily proved that the antibacterial materials could be a good candidate of medical catheter material application or medical device surface coating materials. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part B: Applied Biomaterials published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 105B: 91–98, 2017.
Claudin-16 Deficiency Impairs Tight Junction Function in Ameloblasts, Leading to Abnormal Enamel Formation
Authors: Bardet Claire , Courson Frédéric , Wu Yong , Khaddam Mayssam , Salmon Benjamin , Ribes Sandy , Thumfart Julia , Yamaguti Paulo M , Rochefort Gael Y , Figueres Marie-Lucile , Breiderhoff Tilman , Garcia-Castaño Alejandro , Vallée Benoit , Le Denmat Dominique , Baroukh Brigitte , Guilbert Thomas , Schmitt Alain , Massé Jean-Marc , Bazin Dominique , Lorenz Georg , Morawietz Maria , Hou Jianghui , Carvalho-Lobato Patricia , Manzanares Maria Cristina , Fricain Jean-Christophe , Talmud Deborah , Demontis Renato , Neves Francisco , Zenaty Delphine , Berdal Ariane , Kiesow Andreas , Petzold Matthias , Menashi Suzanne , Linglart Agnes , Acevedo Ana Carolina , Vargas-Poussou Rosa , Müller Dominik , Houillier Pascal , Chaussain Catherine
Published: October 2015

Claudin-16 protein (CLDN16) is a component of tight junctions (TJ) with a restrictive distribution so far demonstrated mainly in the kidney. Here, we demonstrate the expression of CLDN16 also in the tooth germ and show that claudin-16 gene (CLDN16) mutations result in amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) in the 5 studied patients with familial hypomagnesemia with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis (FHHNC). To investigate the role of CLDN16 in tooth formation, we studied a murine model of FHHNC and showed that CLDN16 deficiency led to altered secretory ameloblast TJ structure, lowering of extracellular pH in the forming enamel matrix, and abnormal enamel matrix protein processing, resulting in an enamel phenotype closely resembling human AI. This study unravels an association of FHHNC owing to CLDN16 mutations with AI, which is directly related to the loss of function of CLDN16 during amelogenesis. Overall, this study indicates for the first time the importance of a TJ protein in tooth formation and underlines the need to establish a specific dental follow-up for these patients. © 2015 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Imprecision Investigation and Analysis of Routine Chemistry in China
Authors: Fei Yang , Wang Wei , He Falin , Zhong Kun , Wang Zhiguo
Published: October 2015

Background

This study aims to investigate the imprecision of internal quality control of routine chemistry analytes so that we can have an overall knowledge of imprecision level of measurement in laboratories in China.

Methods

The internal quality control information including two kinds of coefficient of variations (CVs) of 22 analytes were collected via an on‐line questionnaire. Then, the percentages of laboratories meeting the quality requirement for each analyte were calculated according to five imprecision criteria.

Results

Among these 22 analytes, creatine kinase got the most satisfied result, the percentages of laboratories whose current CV met 1/3 total allowable error (1/3TEa), 1/4TEa, and the specifications based on biological variation were 99.3%, 95.9%, 99.6%, 99.9%, and 90.6%, respectively, while Na got the lowest satisfaction rate according to these specifications, which were 4.15%, 22.4%, 4.2%, 9.0%, and 1.3%, respectively. From an overall perspective, most of the 22 analytes got a satisfied result when applying the criteria defined by CLIA'88, while only a small amount of laboratories can meet the requirement when applying the specifications derived from biological variation.

Conclusions

There is huge space for us to enhance and substantial effort is needed in improving and implementing quality management in China.
A framework for the frontline: How hospitalists can improve healthcare value
Authors: Moriates Christopher , Shah Neel T. , Arora Vineet M.
Published: October 2015

As healthcare costs continue to grow, hospitalists may be able to help patients and health system administrators make decisions that generate higher‐value care. In this article, we discuss 3 ways hospitalists can contribute to the mission of delivering value‐based healthcare: design innovative strategies to coordinate care, advocate for appropriate utilization of tests and treatments, and lead local value‐improvement initiatives. We also describe specific tools hospitalists can use in their daily practice, including the Choosing Wisely lists and the COST (Culture, Oversight, Systems Change, Training) framework for value‐improvement initiatives. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:297–302. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Multiracial and Biracial Individuals: A Content Analysis of Counseling Journals, 1991–2013
Authors: Evans Amanda M. , Ramsay Kristine
Published: October 2015

This content analysis examines the counseling literature on multiracial individuals using the top journals. The authors conducted an exhaustive search for research articles and identified 10 published articles that addressed biracial and multiracial individuals from the years 1991 to 2013 in top‐tier counseling journals. Of the 10 counseling journals, 4 journals addressed multiracial individuals (Journal of Counseling & Development, Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, Journal of Humanistic Counseling, and Journal of College Counseling). Recommendations for counselors and researchers are provided.

Este análisis de contenido examina las investigaciones en el campo de la consejería sobre individuos multirraciales publicadas en las revistas académicas más importantes. Los autores llevaron a cabo una búsqueda exhaustiva de artículos de investigación e identificaron 10 artículos publicados en revistas académicas de consejería de alto nivel que trataban sobre individuos birraciales y multirraciales entre los años 1991 y 2013. Cuatro de las 10 revistas académicas de consejería trataban sobre individuos multirraciales (Journal of Counseling & Development, Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, Journal of Humanistic Counseling y Journal of College Counseling). Se ofrecen recomendaciones para consejeros e investigadores.
Strengthening Cultural Sensitivity in Mental Health Counseling for Deaf Clients
Authors: Wright Garry W. , Reese Robert J.
Published: October 2015

Much attention has been given to cultural sensitivity within the mental health counseling literature. Deafness has been discussed in the disability literature, but there is little mention of deafness in a cultural context. Consequently, counselors may not be providing culturally sensitive services to their deaf clients. The authors provide an overview of the Deaf culture, describe the unique communication needs of deaf clients, and offer a description of culturally embedded behaviors that are relevant to counseling.

Se ha prestado mucha atención a la sensibilidad cultural en las publicaciones de consejería en salud mental. Se ha tratado el tema de la sordera en las publicaciones sobre discapacidades, pero apenas se menciona la sordera en un contexto cultural. Como consecuencia, es posible que los consejeros no estén proporcionando servicios culturalmente sensibles a sus clientes con sordera. Los autores proporcionan un resumen general de la cultura de la comunidad sorda, describen la combinación única de necesidades de comunicación de los clientes con sordera y ofrecen una descripción de comportamientos culturalmente arraigados que son relevantes para la consejería.
International Doctoral Students in Counselor Education: Coping Strategies in Supervision Training
Authors: Woo Hongryun , Jang Yoo Jin , Henfield Malik S.
Published: October 2015

This study explores 8 international doctoral students' perceptions of coping strategies used in supervision training in counselor education programs. Using human agency as a conceptual framework, the authors found 3 categories: (a) personal and professional self‐directed strategies as personal agency, (b) support and care from mentors as proxy agency, and (c) networking among international doctoral students and/or graduates as collective agency. Implications for counselor educators are discussed.

Este estudio explora las percepciones de 8 estudiantes internacionales de doctorado sobre las estrategias de afrontamiento usadas en la capacitación de supervisión en programas de educación para consejeros. Usando la agencia humana como marco conceptual, se hallaron 3 categorías: (a) estrategias autodirigidas personales y profesionales como agencia personal, (b) apoyo y cuidados recibidos de mentores como agencia delegada y (c) creación de redes de contactos entre estudiantes internacionales de doctorado y/o doctores como agencia colectiva. Se discuten las implicaciones para educadores de consejeros.
Identification and BAC construction of Han, the first characterized HCMV clinical strain in China
Authors: Zhao Fei , Shen Zhang‐Zhou , Liu Zhong‐Yang , Zeng Wen‐Bo , Cheng Shuang , Ma Yan‐Ping , Rayner Simon , Yang Bo , Qiao Guan‐Hua , Jiang Hai‐Fei , Gao Shuang , Zhu Hua , Xu Fu‐Qiang , Ruan Qiang , Luo Min‐Hua
Published: October 2015

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the leading infectious cause of birth defects, and may lead to severe or lethal diseases in immunocompromised individuals. Several HCMV strains have been identified and widely applied in research, but no isolate from China has been characterized. In the present study, we isolated, characterized and sequenced the first Chinese HCMV clinical strain Han, and constructed the novel and functional HCMV infectious clone Han‐BAC‐2311. HCMV Han was isolated from the urine sample of a Chinese infant with multiple developmental disorders. It expresses HCMV specific proteins and contains a representative HCMV genome with minor differences compared to other strains. By homologous recombination using mini‐F derived BAC vector pUS‐F6, the infectious clone Han‐BAC‐2311 was constructed containing representative viral genes across the HCMV genome. The insertion site and orientation of BAC sequence were confirmed by restriction enzyme digestion and Southern blotting. The reconstituted recombinant virus HanBAC‐2311 expresses typical viral proteins with the same pattern as that of wild‐type Han, and also displayed a similar growth kinetics to wild‐type Han. The identification of the first clinical HCMV strain in China and the construction of its infectious clone will greatly facilitate the pathogenesis studies and vaccine development in China. J. Med. Virol. 88:859–870, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glial activation in the periaqueductal gray promotes descending facilitation of neuropathic pain through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Ni Hua‐Dong , Yao Ming , Huang Bing , Xu Long‐Sheng , Zheng Ying , Chu Yu‐Xia , Wang Han‐Qi , Liu Ming‐Juan , Xu Shi‐Jie , Li Hong‐Bo
Published: October 2015

The midbrain ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (VL‐PAG) is a key component that mediates pain modulation. Although spinal cord glial cells appear to play an important role in chronic pain development, the precise mechanisms involving descending facilitation pathways from the PAG following nerve injury are poorly understood. This study shows that cellular events that occur during glial activation in the VL‐PAG may promote descending facilitation from the PAG during neuropathic pain. Chronic constriction nerve injury (CCI) was induced by ligature construction of the sciatic nerve in male Sprague‐Dawley rats. Behavioral responses to noxious mechanical (paw withdrawal threshold; PWT) and thermal (paw withdrawal latency; PWL) stimuli were evaluated. After CCI, immunohistochemical and Western blot analysis of microglia and astrocytes in the VL‐PAG showed morphological and quantitative changes indicative of activation in microglia and astrocytes. Intra‐VL‐PAG injection of microglial or astrocytic inhibitors attenuated PWT and PWL at days 7 and 14, respectively, following CCI. We also evaluated the effects of intra‐VL‐PAG administration of the phosphorylated p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p‐p38 MAPK) inhibitor SB 203580 at day 7 after CCI. This treatment abolished microglial activation and produced a significant time‐dependent attenuation of PWT and PWL. Western blot analysis showed localized expression of p‐p38 in the VL‐PAG after CCI. P‐p38 was expressed in labeled microglia of the VL‐PAG but was not present in astrocytes and neurons on day 7 after CCI. These results demonstrate that CCI‐induced neuropathic pain is associated with glial activation in the VL‐PAG, which likely participates in descending pain facilitation through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An extended single‐index multiplexed 16S rRNA sequencing for microbial community analysis on MiSeq illumina platforms
Authors: Derakhshani Hooman , Tun Hein Min , Khafipour Ehsan
Published: October 2015

The primary 16S rRNA sequencing protocol for microbial community analysis using Illumina platforms includes a single‐indexing approach that allows pooling of hundreds of samples in each sequencing run. The protocol targets the V4 hypervariable region (HVR) of 16S rRNA using 150 bp paired‐end (PE) sequencing. However, the latest improvement in Illumina chemistry has increased the read length up to 600 bp using 300 bp PE sequencing. To take advantage of the longer read length, a dual‐indexing approach was previously developed for targeting different HVRs. However, due to simple working protocols, the single‐index 150 bp PE approach still continues to be attractive to many researchers. Here, we described an extended single‐indexing protocol for 300 bp PE illumina sequencing that targets the V3‐V4 HVRs of 16S rRNA. The new primer set led to increased read length and alignment resolution, as well as increased richness and diversity of resulting microbial profile compared to that obtained from150 bp PE protocol for V4 sequencing. The β‐diversity profile also differed qualitatively and quantitatively between the two approaches. Both primer sets had high coverage rates and specificity to detect dominant phyla; however, their coverage rate with regards to the rare biosphere varied. Our data further confirms that the choice of primer is the most deterministic factor in sequencing coverage and specificity.
Simulation of biological therapies for degenerated intervertebral discs
Authors: Zhu Qiaoqiao , Gao Xin , Temple H. Thomas , Brown Mark D. , Gu Weiyong
Published: October 2015

The efficacy of biological therapies on intervertebral disc repair was quantitatively studied using a three‐dimensional finite element model based on a cell‐activity coupled multiphasic mixture theory. In this model, cell metabolism and matrix synthesis and degradation were considered. Three types of biological therapies‐increasing the cell density (Case I), increasing the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis rate (Case II), and decreasing the GAG degradation rate (Case III)‐to the nucleus pulposus (NP) of each of two degenerated discs [one mildly degenerated (e.g., 80% viable cells in the NP) and one severely degenerated (e.g., 30% viable cells in the NP)] were simulated. Degenerated discs without treatment were also simulated as a control. The cell number needed, nutrition level demanded, time required for the repair, and the long‐term outcomes of these therapies were analyzed. For Case I, the repair process was predicted to be dependent on the cell density implanted and the nutrition level at disc boundaries. With sufficient nutrition supply, this method was predicted to be effective for treating both mildly and severely degenerated discs. For Case II, the therapy was predicted to be effective for repairing the mildly degenerated disc, but not for the severely degenerated disc. Similar results were predicted for Case III. No change in cell density for Cases II and III were predicted under normal nutrition level. This study provides a quantitative guide for choosing proper strategies of biological therapies for different degenerated discs. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:699–708, 2016.
Ablative fractional laser resurfacing with topical paromomycin as adjunctive treatment for a recalcitrant cutaneous leishmaniasis wound
Authors: Basnett Andrew , Nguyen Tuyet A. , Cannavino Christopher , Krakowski Andrew C.
Published: September 2015

Background and Objective

Leishmaniasis is a vector borne disease that can cause disease manifestations that range from localized skin ulceration to lethal visceral disease. With increased global travel, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is becoming more common in developed nations. However, current treatment options are limited.

Study Design

We report a 16‐year‐old female who presented with several non‐tender, non‐healing CL wounds on her bilateral upper and lower extremities. Ablative fractional laser resurfacing (AFR) was used in conjunction with topical paromomycin via laser‐assisted delivery to treat the largest non‐healing CL wound on the patient's distal lower extremity.

Results

Upon follow‐up after two treatments with AFR, the patient's wound healed completely without evidence of infection and with minimal scarring.

Conclusion

AFR with laser‐assisted delivery of topical paromomycin represents a novel treatment option for resistant, non‐healing CL wounds. The technique may prove additionally useful for concurrent mitigation of scarring related to CL. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:788–791, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lightning fatalities over India: 1979–2011
Authors: Singh Omvir , Singh Jagdeep
Published: October 2015

Information on fatalities in India as a result of lightning flashes has been extracted from a database on disastrous weather events of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Records dating from 1979 to 2011 indicate that about 5259 persons have been killed by lightning strikes in India. The maximum number of lightning fatalities was observed in the states of Maharashtra (29%), West Bengal (12%) and Uttar Pradesh (9%). The spatial variation shows that lightning fatalities are higher over west central India. A significant number of males (89%) have been killed by lightning flashes compared to females (5%) and children (6%) in India, which is most likely due to the larger proportion of males working and moving outdoors in lonely conditions. The overall fatality rate is about 0.25 per million population per year in India. The lightning fatalities are significantly more common in the rainy and the summer seasons. Comparisons were also made between the results of the present study and similar studies carried out in different parts of the world. Therefore, this study provides useful information on the risky lightning time in India to indicate a public awareness and lightning safety campaign.
Analyzing three‐dimensional structure and geometrical shape of individual cellulose nanocrystal from switchgrass
Authors: Meng Yujie , Wu Qiang , Young Timothy M. , Huang Biao , Wang Siqun , Li Yanjun
Published: October 2015

The three‐dimensional morphology, size distribution, and structure of individual cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) isolated from switchgrass (Panicumvirgatum L),a representative raw biomass material, were investigated in this research. Width and height evolutions along the individual CNC longitudinal direction were statistically and quantitatively characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Lognormal distribution was identified as the most likely for cellulose nanocrystals’ size distribution. Height and width dimensions were shown to decrease toward the ends from the midpoint of individual CNCs, implying a spindle shape. The observed rough surfaces of CNCs were explainable as the results of acid etching of the subcrystalline and disordered region located at the surface. X‐ray diffraction analysis of crystallite size accompanied with TEM and AFM measurements revealed that the cross‐sectional dimensions of individual switchgrass CNC were either rectangularly or elliptically shaped, with an approximately 3–5 nm lateral element length range. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:2368–2377, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
The Association of Cognitive Ability with Right–Wing Ideological Attitudes and Prejudice: A Meta–Analytic Review
Authors: Onraet Emma , Van Hiel Alain , Dhont Kristof , Hodson Gordon , Schittekatte Mark , De Pauw Sarah
Published: October 2015

The cognitive functioning of individuals with stronger endorsement of right–wing and prejudiced attitudes has elicited much scholarly interest. Whereas many studies investigated cognitive styles, less attention has been directed towards cognitive ability. Studies investigating the latter topic generally reveal lower cognitive ability to be associated with stronger endorsement of right–wing ideological attitudes and greater prejudice. However, this relationship has remained widely unrecognized in literature. The present meta–analyses revealed an average effect size of r = −. 20 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) [−0.23, −0.17]; based on 67 studies, N = 84 017] for the relationship between cognitive ability and right–wing ideological attitudes and an average effect size of r = −.19 (95% CI [−0.23, −0.16]; based on 23 studies, N = 27 011) for the relationship between cognitive ability and prejudice. Effect sizes did not vary significantly across different cognitive abilities and sample characteristics. The effect strongly depended on the measure used for ideological attitudes and prejudice, with the strongest effect sizes for authoritarianism and ethnocentrism. We conclude that cognitive ability is an important factor in the genesis of ideological attitudes and prejudice and thus should become more central in theorizing and model building. Copyright © 2015 European Association of Personality Psychology
Depression and distress in caregivers of children with brain tumors undergoing treatment: psychosocial factors as moderators
Authors: Choi Eun Kyung , Yoon Soo Jin , Kim Jong‐Heun , Park Hyeon Jin , Kim Joo Young , Yu Eun‐Seung
Published: October 2015

Objective

This study's objectives were to examine the effects of depression on the distress of caregivers of children with brain tumors and to identify the factors moderating depression and caregiver distress.

Methods

Participants were 82 caregivers of children with brain tumors undergoing treatment in the National Cancer Center of South Korea. The depression subscale of the Symptom Checklist 90‐Revised (SCL‐90‐R) and the Burden of a Primary Caregiver (BPC) Scale were used to measure participants' depression and caregiver distress, respectively. The Korean version of the Parenting Sense of Competence (K‐PSOC) Scale, Family Environmental Scale‐Revised (K‐FES‐R), and the DUKE‐UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire‐S (DUKE‐UNC‐FSSQ) were used to assess parental efficacy, family relationships, and perceived social support, respectively.

Results

Younger patient age, lower family income, and caregivers' greater number of years of education significantly predicted caregiver distress. Caregivers with depression experienced significantly more distress than those without depression. The interaction of depression with parenting efficacy and social support affected caregiver distress. For highly depressed caregivers, parental efficacy, social support, and family relationships played weaker roles as protective factors against caregiver distress. High parental efficacy and social support were protective factors against distress in caregivers without depression.

Conclusions

A multi‐dimensional assessment of the psychosocial factors that may affect caregivers of children with brain tumors should precede interventions for distress management. Interventions tailored to individuals' psychosocial factors are needed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting time to castration resistance in hormone sensitive prostate cancer by a personalization algorithm based on a mechanistic model integrating patient data
Authors: Elishmereni Moran , Kheifetz Yuri , Shukrun Ilan , Bevan Graham H. , Nandy Debashis , McKenzie Kyle M. , Kohli Manish , Agur Zvia
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of cancer death of men worldwide. In hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (HSPC), androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is widely used, but an eventual failure on ADT heralds the passage to the castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) stage. Because predicting time to failure on ADT would allow improved planning of personal treatment strategy, we aimed to develop a predictive personalization algorithm for ADT efficacy in HSPC patients.

METHODS

A mathematical mechanistic model for HSPC progression and treatment was developed based on the underlying disease dynamics (represented by prostate‐specific antigen; PSA) as affected by ADT. Following fine‐tuning by a dataset of ADT‐treated HSPC patients, the model was embedded in an algorithm, which predicts the patient's time to biochemical failure (BF) based on clinical metrics obtained before or early in‐treatment.

RESULTS

The mechanistic model, including a tumor growth law with a dynamic power and an elaborate ADT‐resistance mechanism, successfully retrieved individual time‐courses of PSA (R2 = 0.783). Using the personal Gleason score (GS) and PSA at diagnosis, as well as PSA dynamics from 6 months after ADT onset, and given the full ADT regimen, the personalization algorithm accurately predicted the individual time to BF of ADT in 90% of patients in the retrospective cohort (R2 = 0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

The algorithm we have developed, predicting biochemical failure based on routine clinical tests, could be especially useful for patients destined for short‐lived ADT responses and quick progression to CRPC. Prospective studies must validate the utility of the algorithm for clinical decision‐making. Prostate 76:48–57, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigation on the mobility and stability in organic thin film transistors consisting of bilayer gate dielectrics
Authors: Sun Qi‐Jun , Zhuang Jiaqing , Yan Yan , Zhou Ye , Han Su‐Ting , Zhou Li , Roy Vellaisamy A. L.
Published: October 2015

One of the important problems in organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) is the existence of traps on oxide gate dielectrics which degrades the device performance and stability. By modifying the dielectric oxide surface, we obtained devices with bilayer dielectrics that show high mobility and good operational stability compared with the devices based on bare silicon dioxide dielectric layer. The average carrier mobility increases from 0.19 (without surface modification) to 0.35, 0.51, and 0.97 cm2 V−1 s−1 after employing a thin layer of hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and polystyrene (PS), respectively. The PS‐modified device exhibits the superior mobility, operational, and air stability in comparison with other devices. We ascribe these results to fewer traps caused by the OH group or OH‐induced water at the interface of semiconductor and the dielectric layer. In our study, the morphology of the semiconductor layer seems to have limited influence on the mobility and operational stability.
biPERC silicon solar cells enabling bifacial applications for industrial solar cells with passivated rear sides
Authors: Krauß Karin , Fertig Fabian , Greulich Johannes , Rein Stefan , Preu Ralf
Published: October 2015

Bifacial solar modules are expected to increase their market share in the coming years. To date, most bifacial cells in production and under research are realized on n‐type silicon substrates. However, p‐type silicon has been dominating photovoltaic industry, partly due to its lower cost. In this work, we present an approach to combine bifacial applications with the industrial p‐type passivated emitter and rear (PERC) structure: a bifacial PERC cell (biPERC). Simulation results are presented that showcase a high potential for bifacial gains of the biPERC cell. First experimental results of the biPERC concept on large‐area multicrystalline silicon substrates yield a monofacial efficiency of 17.8%. The biPERC cell, therefore, is an easy‐to‐apply modification to a PERC route and enables higher output powers due to bifacial applicability.
Complementary and Alternative Health Practices in the Rehabilitation Nursing
Authors: Nathenson Paul , Nathenson Sophie Lyn
Published: October 2015

This article discusses the connection between the Theory of Integral Nursing and the use of complementary and alternative medicine to rehabilitation nursing. Complementary and alternative health practices refers to methods, practices, and modalities that are outside of the realm of biomedicine. Some of the types of treatments and practices that are considered to be alternative include folk medicine, herbal medicine, homeopathy, faith healing, massage, energy healing, acupuncture and acupressure, supplements, aromatherapy, and music therapy. The Theory of Integral Nursing is explained in some detail. Components of self-care, nursing-based complementary and alternative medicine practices, and supplement alternatives for pain and antidepressant medications used in the rehabilitation setting are also reviewed.
Multi‐stage quantum secure communication using polarization hopping
Authors: El Rifai Mayssaa , Chan Kam Wai Clifford , Verma Pramode K.
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a generalized multi‐stage multi‐photon protocol that uses arbitrary polarization states to securely communicate between a sender and a receiver. Because the polarization measurement of an arbitrarily polarized state results in altering the state in an irreversible way, any such measurement produces noise in the measured state. The proposed multi‐stage protocol exploits this phenomenon to provide quantum secure communication. This paper assesses the vulnerability of the multi‐stage protocol to photon number splitting attack and Trojan horse attack. In addition, it presents an upper bound on the number of photons that can be used per pulse to exchange information while maintaining quantum‐level security. Determination of such a bound is important for the multi‐stage protocol to operate in the multi‐photon domain while maintaining a quantum level of security. Furthermore, this paper proposes a key/message expansion scheme that provides another layer of security to the multi‐stage protocol. The multi‐stage protocol, can potentially provide higher data rates as well as longer communication distances. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A two‐sided matching approach for partner selection and assessing complementarities in partners' attributes in inter‐firm alliances
Authors: Mindruta Denisa , Moeen Mahka , Agarwal Rajshree
Published: October 2015

Research summary: Strategic alliances are undertaken to create value through complementarities of resources and capabilities of the partner firms. This paper uses a recently developed estimator of matching games, i.e., the maximum score estimator, to advance strategic management research on partner selection in strategic alliances, with a focus on the formation of research alliances in the biopharmaceutical industry. We contribute to the literature in three ways. First, we develop a matching framework to study strategic alliances, taking a market perspective that explicitly incorporates key features of alliance formation: two‐sided decision making; quest for complementarities between indivisible and heterogeneous partner attributes; and competition on each side of the market for partners on the other side of the market. Second, we assess the relative performance of the maximum score and standard discrete choice estimators by performing simulations based on known functional relationships in various matching scenarios. Third, within the context of biopharmaceutical research alliances, we hypothesize and find support using the maximum score estimator for complementarity in partner size and in upstream research capabilities.

Managerial summary: A critical question facing managers who seek to benefit from strategic alliances is “whom to ally with”. Typically, each party seeks a partner whose attributes reinforce their own. This paper explains that the interaction of these preferences leads to a market-wide sorting of alliance partners. Since the value created by an alliance is driven by attributes of all alliance partners, firms cannot successfully bid financial resources to get access to their most preferred partner. Instead, managers need to understand the market-wide competition and invest in the “right” mixture of attributes to make their firm more attractive in the market for alliance partners. Using this framework, we highlight firms' sizes and research capabilities as two drivers of partner selection and sorting in bio-pharmaceutical research alliances. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Generation of Hydrogen by Visible Light‐Induced Water Splitting with the Use of Semiconductors and Dyes
Authors: Rao C. N. R. , Lingampalli Srinivasa Rao
Published: October 2015

Photosynthesis that occurs in plants involves both the oxidation of water and the reduction of carbon dioxide. Plants carry out these reactions with ease, by involving electron‐transport chains. In this article, hydrogen generation by the reduction of water in the laboratory by using semiconductor nanostructures through artificial photosynthesis is examined. Dye‐sensitized photochemical generation of hydrogen from water is also discussed. Hydrogen generation by these means has great technological relevance, since it is an environmentally friendly fuel. The way in which oxygen can be generated by the oxidation of water using metal oxide catalysts is also shown.
Strengthening Improvement on Gear Steels
Authors: Mengaroni S. , Bambach M. D. , Cianetti Filippo , Bleck W. , Neri S.
Published: October 2015

18CrNiMo7‐6 carburizing steel grade is commonly used to produce high‐performance gear components, e.g., for wind energy converters. Component failure is often related to cracks taking origin in correspondence of non‐metallic inclusions. In order to increase the component's service life, a high degree of steel cleanliness has been pursued so far. However, cracks may still occur leading to preliminary component failure and high maintenance costs. For this reason, a special matrix is developed with the purpose to reach higher resistance without losing toughness and guaranteeing high steel cleanliness as well. The nominal chemical composition of standard 18CrNiMo7‐6 steel is modified by nickel and silicon additions. The steel is produced by vacuum induction melting (VIM) followed by electro‐slag refining (ESR) in order to further increase its cleanliness. Results of nickel and silicon addition show a growing trend of strength values without any significant loss in toughness behavior at room temperature. The reduction of inclusion content by ESR leads moreover to fewer cracks nucleation sites.
Regulatory RNAs discovered in unexpected places
Authors: Pek Jun Wei , Okamura Katsutomo
Published: October 2015

Recent studies have discovered both small and long noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) encoded in unexpected places. These ncRNA genes were surprises at the time of their discovery, but many quickly became well‐accepted families of functional regulatory RNA species. Even after years of extensive gene annotation studies using high‐throughput sequencing technologies, new types of ncRNA genes continue to be discovered in unexpected places. We highlight ncRNAs that have atypical structures and that are encoded in what are generally considered ‘junk’ sequences, such as spacers and introns. We also discuss current bottlenecks in the approaches for identifying novel ncRNAs and the possibility that many remain to be discovered. WIREs RNA 2015, 6:671–686. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1309

This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs