bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opinions of dentists on the barriers in providing oral health care to community‐dwelling frail older people: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Bots‐VantSpijker Pieternella C. , Bruers Josef J.M. , Bots Casper P. , Vanobbergen Jacques N.O. , De Visschere Luc M.J. , de Baat Cees , Schols Jos M.G.A.
Published: November 2014

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent dentists in the Netherlands experience barriers in providing oral health care to community‐dwelling older people.

Background

As most publications on the barriers in providing oral health care to older people consist of surveys on oral health care in care homes, it was decided to investigate the barriers dentists experience in their own dental practices while providing oral health care to community‐dwelling frail older people.

Material and methods

A representative sample of 1592 of the approximately 8000 dentists in the Netherlands aged 64 or younger were invited to respond to a questionnaire online. The dentists were asked to respond to 15 opinions concerning oral healthcare provision to community‐dwelling frail older people aged 75 years or more who experience problems in physical, psychological and social areas, as well as possible financial problems.

Results

The total response rate was 37% (n = 595; male=76%; average age 49). The majority of those who responded agreed that the reimbursement of oral health care to older people is poor. Two thirds of those who responded (66%) agreed that there are limited opportunities to refer the frail and elderly with complex oral healthcare problems to a colleague with specific knowledge and skills.

Conclusion

Dentists experienced barriers in two domains; a lack of knowledge and practical circumstances. It was concluded that the dentist's gender, age, year of graduation and the number of patients aged 75 years or more treated weekly were in some respect, related to the barriers encountered.
Potential respiratory pathogens colonisation of the denture plaque of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Przybyłowska Dorota , Mierzwińska‐Nastalska Elżbieta , Swoboda‐Kopeć Ewa , Rubinsztajn Renata , Chazan Ryszarda
Published: November 2014

Introduction

The role of bacterial infections in acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is widely examined. Denture plaque in patients with COPD is an example of bacterial and fungal biofilm, which is a reservoir of potentially pathogenic respiratory tract microorganisms. Poor denture hygiene might cause acute exacerbations of COPD.

Objective

Assessment of prevalence of respiratory tract pathogens in denture plaque in stable patients with COPD and it influence on oral ontocenoses depending upon the therapy.

Materials and methods

The study was based on the clinical assessment of oral mucosa and denture hygiene in 53 patients with COPD with mean age of 70 ± 18 years and 14 generally healthy participants with mean age of 65 ± 14 years. Microbiological and mycological tests were performed by culturing direct denture swabs.

Results

The study showcased the presence of potential pathogenic micro‐organisms in denture plaque of 48 patients with COPD (90%) and nine healthy subjects (64.3%). Yeast‐like fungi prevailed in denture surface swabs of 40 (75%) in patients with COPD and 8 (57%) in cases of control group. In 66% of patients, various degree of oral mucosa inflammation prevailed.

Conclusions

Denture plaque could be a potential source of bacterial and fungal infections in patients with COPD.
Quality and Age of Shallow Groundwater in the Bakken Formation Production Area, Williston Basin, Montana and North Dakota
Authors: McMahon P.B. , Caldwell R.R. , Galloway J.M. , Valder J.F. , Hunt A.G.
Published: November 2014

The quality and age of shallow groundwater in the Bakken Formation production area were characterized using data from 30 randomly distributed domestic wells screened in the upper Fort Union Formation. Comparison of inorganic and organic chemical concentrations to health based drinking‐water standards, correlation analysis of concentrations with oil and gas well locations, and isotopic data give no indication that energy‐development activities affected groundwater quality. It is important, however, to consider these results in the context of groundwater age. Most samples were recharged before the early 1950s and had 14C ages ranging from <1000 to >30,000 years. Thus, domestic wells may not be as well suited for detecting contamination associated with recent surface spills as shallower wells screened near the water table. Old groundwater could be contaminated directly by recent subsurface leaks from imperfectly cemented oil and gas wells, but horizontal groundwater velocities calculated from 14C ages imply that the contaminants would still be less than 0.5 km from their source. For the wells sampled in this study, the median distance to the nearest oil and gas well was 4.6 km. Because of the slow velocities, a long‐term commitment to groundwater monitoring in the upper Fort Union Formation is needed to assess the effects of energy development on groundwater quality. In conjunction with that effort, monitoring could be done closer to energy‐development activities to increase the likelihood of early detection of groundwater contamination if it did occur.
Tracer Tomography: Design Concepts and Field Experiments Using Heat as a Tracer
Authors: Doro Kennedy O. , Cirpka Olaf A. , Leven Carsten
Published: November 2014

Numerical and laboratory studies have provided evidence that combining hydraulic tomography with tomographic tracer tests could improve the estimation of hydraulic conductivity compared with using hydraulic data alone. Field demonstrations, however, have been lacking so far, which we attribute to experimental difficulties. In this study, we present a conceptual design and experimental applications of tracer tomography at the field scale using heat as a tracer. In our experimental design, we improve active heat tracer testing by minimizing possible effects of heat losses, buoyancy, viscosity, and changing boundary conditions. We also utilize a cost‐effective approach of measuring temperature changes in situ at high resolution. We apply the presented method to the 8 m thick heterogeneous, sandy gravel, alluvial aquifer at the Lauswiesen Hydrogeological Research Site in Tübingen, Germany. Results of our tomographic heat‐tracer experiments are in line with earlier work on characterizing the aquifer at the test site. We demonstrate from the experimental perspective that tracer tomography is applicable and suitable at the field scale using heat as a tracer. The experimental results also demonstrate the potential of heat‐tracer tomography as a cost‐effective means for characterizing aquifer heterogeneity.
Influence of a multiple emulsion, liposomes and a microemulsion gel on sebum, skin hydration and TEWL
Authors: Mahrhauser D. , Nagelreiter C. , Baierl A. , Skipiol J. , Valenta C.
Published: November 2014

Synopsis

Objective

In this study, the influence of three cosmetically relevant, priorly characterized vehicles on skin hydration, sebum content and transepidermal water loss was investigated. The chosen vehicles included a liposomal pre‐formulation, a multiple W/O/W emulsion and a microemulsion gel. The in vivo effects of these vehicles were demonstrated and compared among them.

Methods

The stability of the prepared vehicles was determined visually, microscopically, rheologically by pH measurements and particle size. Interactions with skin were assessed by non‐invasive biophysical techniques using the Corneometer®, Aqua Flux® and Sebumeter, measuring skin hydration, TEWL and skin sebum content, respectively.

Results

All vehicles remained stable over an observation period of 6 weeks. The multiple emulsion increased sebum content and skin hydration. In case of the liposomes, each monitored parameter remained almost constant. In contrast, the microemulsion gel lowered skin hydration and increased TEWL values, but even 1 week after termination of the treatment TEWL decreased almost close to control levels.

Conclusion

All produced vehicles were proven to remain physically stable over the duration of this study. The used multiple emulsion showed very skin‐friendly properties by increasing sebum and skin hydration. Likewise, the liposomal pre‐formulation exhibited no negative effects. On the contrary, the investigated microemulsion gel seemed to have skin dehydrating and TEWL increasing features. However, the multiple emulsion as well as liposomes was identified to be well‐tolerated vehicles for skin which might qualify them for the use in cosmetic formulations.
Chemical analysis and risk assessment of prohibited colouring agents in face paint with special regard to CI 15585 (D&C Red No. 9, Pigment Red 53:1)
Authors: Keck‐Wilhelm A. , Kratz E. , Mildau G. , Ilse M. , Schlee C. , Lachenmeier D. W.
Published: November 2014

Synopsis

Objectives

Face painting in the colours of the national flags has become a mass phenomenon during international mega sporting events. Face paints, belonging to the group of lipophilic decorative cosmetics, pose an analytical challenge, especially in the sample preparation steps to obtain sample extracts of the colouring agents of low solubility.

Methods

In the context of official cosmetics control, a sample of German flag‐coloured face paints (n = 42) offered during the soccer world cup 2014 was analysed. Sample‐clean‐up of hydroalcoholic and dichloromethane sample extracts was conducted using preparative thin‐layer chromatography (TLC). For identification, analytical TLC, spectrophotometry considering bathochromic effects, and high‐performance liquid chromatography (LC) with diode array detector were applied. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and LC–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) were used in positive cases for confirmatory analysis. NMR spectroscopy was also applied to determine the identity and purity of reference substances. Risk assessment was provided using the margin of exposure (MOE) methodology.

Results

The prohibited red colouring agent CI 15585 (D&C Red No. 9, Pigment Red 53:1), which is carcinogenic in animals, was positively identified in 40% of the analysed samples. Per face painting event, about 0.04 mg kg−1 bw (adult) or 0.11 mg kg−1 bw (child) of CI 15585 is systemically absorbed. Assuming an annual use of five times (adult) or 20 times (child), the exposure would be 5.8E‐04 mg kg−1 bw per day (adult) or 5.8E‐03 mg kg−1 bw per day (child). The MOE in these worst‐case scenarios would be 6871 (adult) and 695 (child). Because the mechanism of CI 15585 is non‐genotoxic and the MOE is higher than a safety factor of 100, CI 15585 does not pose a serious health risk to the consumer, but should be avoided for reasons of precautionary public health protection.

Conclusion

An analytical strategy to determine colouring agents in face paints was developed and non‐compliance with the European Union (EU) cosmetic products regulation in a considerable number of products was detected. An increased control frequency especially at the points of entry into the EU is recommended.
Salvage combined chemotherapy with paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin for patients with advanced germ cell tumors
Authors: Nakamura Terukazu , Ueda Takashi , Oishi Masakatsu , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Fujihara Atsuko , Naya Yoshio , Hongo Fumiya , Kamoi Kazumi , Okihara Koji , Miki Tsuneharu
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To investigate the efficacy of combined regimen with paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin as salvage chemotherapy in patients with cisplatin‐refractory or multiple relapsed germ cell tumors.

Methods

A total of 65 patients refractory to cisplatin‐based chemotherapy or with relapse after induction or salvage chemotherapy received paclitaxel 210 mg/m2 on day 1, ifosfamide 1.2 g/m2 on days 2–6 and nedaplatin 100 mg/m2 on day 2 of a 3‐week cycle. The primary and secondary end‐points were the response rate and overall survival, respectively.

Results

Paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin therapy was carried out as second‐line therapy in 17 patients, third‐line in 31 and fourth‐line or later in 17. Patients were pretreated with a median of six cycles of platinum‐based chemotherapy (range 3–15 cycles). The overall response rate was 62.9%, including one patient with complete response and 38 with partial response. Serum tumor marker levels normalized in 35 (56.5%) patients. Overall survival at a median follow up of 34 months was 59.3%, and median time to progression was 12 months. Multivariate analysis showed that serum tumor marker normalization was the only independent predictor of better progression‐free survival and overall survival. Grade 3/4 of neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia was observed in 96.9%, in 81.5%, and in 90.8% of patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Paclitaxel, ifosfamide and nedaplatin chemotherapy appears to be effective when used as first or second salvage treatment in advanced relapsed germ cell tumors. Even after fourth‐line therapy, patients with serum tumor marker normalization might have a chance for a cure.
Chronic open angle glaucoma and low tension glaucoma: endothelin‐1 levels in plasma and aqueous humour
Authors: Cellini M. , Caramazza R.
Published: November 2014

The authors evaluated the possible variations of endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) levels in plasma and aqueous humour in patients suffering from chronic open angle glaucoma (COAG) and low tension glaucoma (LTG).

Radioimmunoassay was used to assess the level of ET‐1 in plasma and aqueous humour in two groups of patients with COAG and LTG. The ET‐1 plasma level was higher in LTG cases (2.950±0.211 pg/ml vs 1.770±0.211 pg/ml; p<0.001), whereas the aqueous humour ET‐1 level was higher in the COAG patients (4.100±0.330 pg/ml vs 3.890±0.292 pg/ml; p<0.008). The data collected indicated that low tension glaucoma must be considered as an essentially vascular pathology and should, therefore, be differentiated from chronic open angle glaucoma.
Apoptotic degeneration induction in retinal cells by acute ocular hypertension and neuroprotection by troxolol
Authors: Pescosolido N. , Cristofanilli M. , de Feo G. , Risuleo G. , Scarsella G.
Published: November 2014

The effects of acute experimental ocular hypertension on retinal cells have been studied. IOP levels and degree of cell damage have been evaluated by cytochemical and DNA analysis, by which the degeneration, necrotic and apoptotic modalities were observed. Possible pharmacological approaches, e.g. neuroprotection with troxol, have been determined for the prevention of the degenerative events that may be ascribed, at least in part, to oxidizing processes.
Preparation of Spherical AlN Granules Directly by Carbothermal Reduction–Nitridation Method
Authors: Wang Qi , Cui Wei , Ge Yiyao , Chen Kexin , Xie Zhipeng
Published: November 2014

In this work, an efficient carbothermal reduction–nitridation strategy was rationally designed and delicately tailored to directly synthesize spherical granules of aluminum nitride. Effects of processing parameters, such as N2 pressure, additives and temperature on the nitridation ratio, especially on the morphologies of the AlN granules were elaborately investigated. The experimental results showed that the elevated N2 pressure of 0.9 MPa and additives of CaF2 and Y2O3 greatly favored for forming micrometer‐sized AlN granules with smooth spherical appearance. More significantly, the underlying formation mechanism of spherical morphology and large particle size was also attentively put forward.
The Asymmetry Objection Rides Again: On the Nature and Significance of Justificatory Disagreement
Authors: Fowler Timothy , Stemplowska Zofia
Published: November 2014

Political liberalism offers perhaps the most developed and dominant account of justice and legitimacy in the face of disagreement among citizens. A prominent objection states that the view arbitrarily treats differently disagreement about the good, such as on what makes for a good life, and disagreement about justice. In the presence of reasonable disagreement about the good, political liberals argue that the state must be neutral, but they do not suggest a similar response given reasonable disagreement about what justice requires. A leading political liberal, Jonathan Quong, has recently offered a rebuttal to this asymmetry objection. His reply rests on an innovative distinction between justificatory and foundational disagreement. Quong claims that disagreements about justice in a well ordered society are justificatory while disagreements about the good are foundational, and suggests that this fact blocks the asymmetry objection. We assess Quong's solution and argue that it fails to justify legitimate state action on matters of justice but not the good. We conclude that the asymmetry objection continues to undermine political liberalism.
Medical intervention in parent‐reported infant gastro‐oesophageal reflux: A population‐based study
Authors: Hua Sun , Peters Rachel L , Allen Katrina J , Dharmage Shyamali C , Tang Mimi LK , Wake Melissa , Foskey Rebecca , Heine Ralf G ,   HealthNuts Study Investigators
Published: November 2014

Aim

To report the cumulative incidence, health‐seeking behaviour and medical intervention of infants with gastro‐oesophageal reflux (GOR) in the first year of life.

Methods

The HealthNuts study is a longitudinal, population‐based study. At 12 months of age, infants underwent skin prick testing to food allergens, including cows milk. Parents completed a questionnaire on GOR symptoms, food allergy and treatments. Factors associated with seeking health care for infants with GOR were modelled using logistic regression.

Results

Of 4674 infants, parents reported GOR in 1054 (23%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 21.4–23.8). Parents consulted a medical practitioner in 662 (64%) cases. Symptoms commenced in the first month in 411 (48%) and resolved within 6 months in 703 (75%) infants. Factors associated with doctor consultation for GOR were prematurity (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.94; 95% CI 1.43–2.63) and family history of atopy (aOR 1.64; 95% CI 1.1–2.43). Eight per cent of infants (371/4674; 95% CI 7.2–8.7) received anti‐reflux medication and 6% (296/4674; 95% CI 5.7–7.1) changed formula. Parents were more likely to seek treatment if they perceived their infant to be unsettled (aOR 2.55; 95% CI 1.26–5.17) and if the duration of GOR was prolonged (aOR 3.36 for symptoms >6 months; 95% CI 1.83–6.17).

Conclusions

In the first year of life, approximately 14% of the population seek medical advice for GOR symptoms. The use of anti‐reflux medication in the general community remains high, despite the absence of evidence that it is appropriate or effective for uncomplicated GOR.
Vitamin D status and its predictors among pre‐school children in Adelaide
Authors: Zhou Shao J , Skeaff Murray , Makrides Maria , Gibson Robert
Published: November 2014

Aim

To assess vitamin D status and its predictors in a representative population sample of pre‐school children in Adelaide (latitude of 35°S).

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey of children aged between 1 and 5 years from areas of low, medium and high socio‐economic status as identified from the 2001 Census data, Australian Bureau of Statistics. Children were recruited between September 2005 and July 2007 using a door knocking protocol based on a stratified sampling method to obtain a representative sample of this age group. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was determined using a radio‐immunoassay kit. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum 25(OH)D) <30 nmol/L and insufficiency defined as serum 25(OH)D ≥30 and <50 nmol/L according to the Institute of Medicine.

Results

Fifty‐two per cent of eligible children took part in the study. Mean (standard deviation) serum 25(OH)D was 73 (26) nmol/L (n = 221). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was 4% and 16%, respectively, with the prevalence being higher in winter (8% and 22%, respectively). Season of the year of blood collection and mother being born in Australia were significant predictors of serum 25(OH)D concentration, but age, sex, socio‐economic status, BMI category or dietary supplement use were not related to vitamin D status.

Conclusions

Vitamin D status of this representative sample of pre‐school children in Australia is adequate, and the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is low based on the Institute of Medicine criteria.
Role of resistin in the inflammatory response induced by nicotine plus lipopolysaccharide in human periodontal ligament cells in vitro
Authors: Kang S.‐K. , Park Y.‐D. , Kang S.‐I. , Kim D.‐K. , Kang K.‐L. , Lee S.‐Y. , Lee H.‐J. , Kim E.‐C.
Published: November 2014

Background and Objective

Resistin was recently reported to play a role in inflammation‐related diseases such as arthritis. However, the precise role of resistin in chronic inflammatory diseases, such as periodontal disease, remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined effects of nicotine and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the expression of resistin and to assess whether resistin expression influences the levels of inflammatory cytokines, extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules and MMPs in human periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) stimulated with both nicotine and LPS.

Material and Methods

PDLCs were pretreated with isoproterenol or resistin‐specific small interfering RNA (siRNA), stimulated with LPS plus nicotine for 24 h, and then monitored for the production of inflammatory mediators. The concentrations of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured by radioimmunoassay and the Griess method, respectively. RT‐PCR and western blot analysis were used to measure the levels of mRNA and protein, respectively. Western blot analysis was also used to assess the activation of various signal‐transduction pathways.

Results

Treatment with nicotine plus LPS up‐regulated the expression of resistin mRNA and the production of resistin protein in PDLCs in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner. Isoproterenol‐mediated interference with the function of resistin, or siRNA‐mediated knockdown of resistin expression, markedly attenuated the LPS plus nicotine‐mediated stimulation of PGE2 and NO production, the production of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase proteins and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐12] and MMPs (MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9); however, these treatments restored the expression of ECM molecules. Furthermore, pretreatment with isoproterenol or resistin‐specific siRNA blocked nicotine plus LPS‐induced activation of phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase, glycogen synthase kinase‐3 beta, β‐catenin, p38, ERK, JNK and nuclear factor‐κB.

Conclusion

This is the first study to show that the inhibition of resistin, by either a pharmacological or a genetic silencing approach, has anti‐inflammatory effects. These effects include decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines and the prevention of ECM breakdown in a nicotine plus LPS‐stimulated PDLC model.
Brain size variation in extremophile fish: local adaptation versus phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Eifert C. , Farnworth M. , Schulz‐Mirbach T. , Riesch R. , Bierbach D. , Klaus S. , Wurster A. , Tobler M. , Streit B. , Indy J. R. , Arias‐Rodriguez L. , Plath M.
Published: November 2014

The brain is a plastic organ, and so intraspecific studies that compare results obtained from wild individuals with those from common‐garden experiments are crucial for studies aiming to understand brain evolution. We compared volumes of brain regions between reproductively isolated populations of a neotropical fish, Poecilia mexicana, that has locally adapted to perpetual darkness (Cueva Luna Azufre), toxic hydrogen sulphide in a surface stream (El Azufre) or a combination of both stressors (Cueva del Azufre). Wild fish showed habitat‐dependent differences: enlarged telencephalic lobes and reduced optic tecta were found in fish living in darkness and sulphidic waters, in darkness without hydrogen sulphide or exposed to light and sulphide; fish from the sulphidic cave additionally showed enlarged cerebella. Comparison with common‐garden reared fish detected a general decrease in brain size throughout populations in the lab, and little of the brain size divergence between lab‐reared ecotypes that was seen in wild‐caught fish. The pronounced differences in brain region volumes between ecotypes in the wild might be interpreted within the framework of mosaic evolution; however, the outcomes of common‐garden experiments indicate a high amount of phenotypic plasticity. Our study thus highlights the importance of combining the investigation of brain size in wild populations with common‐garden experiments for answering questions of brain evolution.
Affective State of School Pupils During Their First Lesson of the Day—Effect of Morningness–Eveningness
Authors: Randler Christoph , Rahafar Arash , Arbabi Talat , Bretschneider Rebekka
Published: November 2014

One of the most intriguing results concerning chronopsychological effects at school is the worse school performance in evening‐oriented adolescents. The study intends to correlate affective state with chronotype. Therefore, we carried out a field study in adolescents in a natural setting (in school) and assessed their actual affective state during the very first lesson at school (8:00 a.m.). A total of 97 pupils (60 boys and 37 girls; mean age 13.14 ± SD 1.84; range 10–17 years) from class Grades 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10 participated in this study. We used the Composite Scale of Morningness (CSM) to assess morningness and the Adjective Checklist for Children (EWL40‐KJ) to assess mood. Morningness was positively associated with relaxation, good mood, and activation, and negatively related to bad mood, anger, and deactivation. No significant relationship was found related to excitation, aggression, anxiety, and depressiveness. Concerning the two general dimensions, CSM scores were positively related to positive mood and negatively to negative mood.
Childcare arrangements and infant feeding practices by family structure and household income among US children aged 0 to 2 years
Authors: Kim Juhee , Gallien Tara L
Published: November 2014

The primary objective of this study is to examine the disparities in childcare and infant feeding practices by family structure (single‐mother vs. two‐parent households) and whether household income level may modify the observed associations by family structure. The cross‐sectional data analysis was conducted using a nationally representative sample of children aged 0 to 2 years enrolled in the 2007 National Survey of Children's Health. The analytic sample is children from single mothers (n = 1801, 16.0%) and children from two parents (n = 11 337, 84.0%). Children of single mothers used more non‐parental childcare [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 2.67, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 1.99–3.58], especially relative care and centre care, than children of two parents. Lower rates of any breastfeeding for 6 months (AOR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.43–0.77) and ever breastfed (AOR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.50–0.89) were reported among children of single mothers than those of two parents. The many observed differences in childcare arrangements and breastfeeding by family structure remained significant in both low‐ and high‐income households. However, children of low‐income single mothers had more last‐minute changes of childcare arrangement (AOR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.55–3.52) than children of low‐income two‐parent households and children of high‐income single mothers had more early introduction of complementary foods (AOR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.12–3.29) than children of high‐income two‐parent households. This study documented disparities in childcare arrangements and infant feeding practices by family structure, regardless of income level. These findings support the need to for comprehensive policies that address maternal employment leave, childcare support and workplace accommodations and support for breastfeeding for children 0 to 2 years, especially among single mothers, regardless of income.
Microlicia crassa and M. maculata spp. nov. (Melastomataceae) from Minas Gerais, Brazil: morphology and leaf anatomy
Authors: Romero Rosana , Silva Kleber Resende , Simão Daniela Guimarães
Published: November 2014

Two new species of Microlicia from campos rupestres of Minas Gerais are described, illustrated and compared with their relatives. Microlicia crassa sp. nov. is similar to M. formosa, and M. maculata sp. nov. is similar to M. isophylla and M. tetrasticha. The trichomes covering both surfaces of the leaves of the two new species and their relative, M. isophylla may be characterized as sessile glands under a stereomicroscope, but anatomical studies revealed the presence of a short stalk. Microlicia crassa and M. maculata are assessed as “Endangered”, according to the IUCN categories and criteria.
Detection of induced mutations in CaFAD2 genes by next‐generation sequencing leading to the production of improved oil composition in Crambe abyssinica
Authors: Cheng Jihua , Salentijn Elma M. J. , Huang Bangquan , Denneboom Christel , Qi Weicong , Dechesne Annemarie C. , Krens Frans A. , Visser Richard G. F. , van Loo Eibertus N.
Published: November 2014

Crambe abyssinica is a hexaploid oil crop for industrial applications. An increase of erucic acid (C22:1) and reduction of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) contents in crambe oil is a valuable improvement. An increase in oleic acid (C18:1), a reduction in PUFA and possibly an increase in C22:1 can be obtained by down‐regulating the expression of fatty acid desaturase2 genes (CaFAD2), which code for the enzyme that converts C18:1 into C18:2. We conducted EMS‐mutagenesis in crambe, followed by Illumina sequencing, to screen mutations in three expressed CaFAD2 genes. Two novel analysis strategies were used to detect mutation sites. In the first strategy, mutation detection targeted specific sequence motifs. In the second strategy, every nucleotide position in a CaFAD2 fragment was tested for the presence of mutations. Seventeen novel mutations were detected in 1100 one‐dimensional pools (11 000 individuals) in three expressed CaFAD2 genes, including non‐sense mutations and mis‐sense mutations in CaFAD2‐C1, ‐C2 and ‐C3. The homozygous non‐sense mutants for CaFAD2‐C3 resulted in a 25% higher content of C18:1 and 25% lower content of PUFA compared to the wild type. The mis‐sense mutations only led to small changes in oil composition. Concluding, targeted mutation detection using NGS in a polyploid was successfully applied and it was found that a non‐sense mutation in even a single CaFAD2 gene can lead to changes in crambe oil composition. Stacking the mutations in different CaFAD2 may gain additional changes in C18:1 and PUFA contents.
Accumulation of terpenoid phytoalexins in maize roots is associated with drought tolerance
Authors: Vaughan Martha M. , Christensen Shawn , Schmelz Eric A. , Huffaker Alisa , Mcauslane Heather J. , Alborn Hans T. , Romero Maritza , Allen Leon Hartwell , Teal Peter E. A.
Published: November 2014

Maize (Zea mays) production, which is of global agro‐economic importance, is largely limited by herbivore pests, pathogens and environmental conditions, such as drought. Zealexins and kauralexins belong to two recently identified families of acidic terpenoid phytoalexins in maize that mediate defence against both pathogen and insect attacks in aboveground tissues. However, little is known about their function in belowground organs and their potential to counter abiotic stress. In this study, we show that zealexins and kauralexins accumulate in roots in response to both biotic and abiotic stress including, Diabrotica balteata herbivory, Fusarium verticillioides infection, drought and high salinity. We find that the quantity of drought‐induced phytoalexins is positively correlated with the root‐to‐shoot ratio of different maize varieties, and further demonstrate that mutant an2 plants deficient in kauralexin production are more sensitive to drought. The induction of phytoalexins in response to drought is root specific and does not influence phytoalexin levels aboveground; however, the accumulation of phytoalexins in one tissue may influence the induction capacity of other tissues.
Biophysical impacts of climate‐smart agriculture in theMidwestUnitedStates
Authors: BAGLEY JUSTIN E. , MILLER JESSE , BERNACCHI CARL J.
Published: November 2014

The potential impacts of climate change in theMidwestUnitedStates present unprecedented challenges to regional agriculture. In response to these challenges, a variety of climate‐smart agricultural methodologies have been proposed to retain or improve crop yields, reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, retain soil quality and increase climate resilience of agricultural systems. One component that is commonly neglected when assessing the environmental impacts of climate‐smart agriculture is the biophysical impacts, where changes in ecosystem fluxes and storage of moisture and energy lead to perturbations in local climate and water availability. Using a combination of observational data and an agroecosystem model, a series of climate‐smart agricultural scenarios were assessed to determine the biophysical impacts these techniques have in theMidwestUnitedStates. The first scenario extended the growing season for existing crops using future temperature andCO2concentrations. The second scenario examined the biophysical impacts of no‐till agriculture and the impacts of annually retaining crop debris. Finally, the third scenario evaluated the potential impacts that the adoption of perennial cultivars had on biophysical quantities. Each of these scenarios was found to have significant biophysical impacts. However, the timing and magnitude of the biophysical impacts differed between scenarios.
Effects of self‐disclosure and responsiveness between couples on passionate love within couples
Authors: WELKER KEITH M. , BAKER LYNZEY , PADILLA ALEXANDRA , HOLMES HANNAH , ARON ARTHUR , SLATCHER RICHARD B.
Published: November 2014

Previous work shows that high‐self‐disclosure interactions between couples can increase feelings of closeness within couples. We investigated whether couple friendships created in the lab through high‐self‐disclosure and closeness‐building activities would boost feelings of passionate love. In Study 1, couples randomly assigned to a high (vs. low) closeness induction task, either alone or with another couple, showed significantly greater increases in passionate love when they were highly self‐disclosing with other couples. Study 2 showed that the responsiveness of the other couple mediated the effects of self‐disclosure on increases in passionate love following high‐self‐disclosure interactions with other couples. The creation of couple friendships may be an additional way to reignite feelings of passionate love in romantic relationships.
Mutations in the plant‐conserved MTERF9 alter chloroplast gene expression, development and tolerance to abiotic stress in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Robles Pedro , Micol José Luis , Quesada Víctor
Published: November 2014

The control of organelle gene expression in plants is far from fully understood. The characterization of mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana is assigning an increasingly prominent role to the mitochondrial transcription termination factors (mTERFs) in this process. To gain insight into the function of mTERF genes in plants, we took a reverse genetics approach to identify and characterize A. thaliana mTERF‐defective mutants. Here we report the characterization of the mterf9 mutant, affected in an mTERF protein functionally conserved in plants and targeted to chloroplasts. Loss of MTERF9 results in defective chloroplast development, which is likely to cause paleness, stunted growth and reduced mesophyll cell numbers. Expression analysis of different plastid genes revealed reduced levels of plastid‐encoded polymerase (PEP)‐dependent transcripts and increased levels of transcripts dependent of nucleus‐encoded polymerase. mterf9 plants exhibited altered responses to sugars, abscisic acid (ABA), salt and osmotic stresses, and the microarray data analysis showed modifications in MTERF9 expression after salt or mannitol treatments. Our genetic interactions results indicate a functional relationship between MTERF9 and the previously characterized MDA1 gene, and between MDA1 and some plastid ribosomal genes. MDA1 and MTERF9 were upregulated in the mterf9 and mda1 mutants, respectively. Moreover, 21 of 50 genes were commonly co‐expressed with MDA1 and MTERF9. The analysis of the MDA1 and MTERF9 promoters showed that both were rich in stress‐related cis‐regulatory elements. Our results highlight the role of the MTERF9 gene in plant biology and deepens the understanding of the functional relationship of plant mTERF genes.
Flume tank study of surface morphology and stratigraphy of a fan delta
Authors: Wang Junhui , Jiang Zaixing , Zhang Yuanfu , Gao Liming , Wei Xiaojie , Zhang Wenzhao , Liang Yu , Zhang Haiying
Published: November 2014

The morphodynamics of a river flood on a fan delta and its resultant stratigraphic and sedimentary signatures have been studied by means of a flume experiment under controlled boundary conditions. The experiment revealed that deposition was dominant in flood periods when the channels were highly loaded with sediments. In contrast, erosion was dominant in periods of low flow. Mouth bars were formed when a subaqueous channel began to backfill. The development of a mouth bar began with progradation in the down‐dip direction and proceeded by aggradation, then retrogradation and finally transverse growth. A channel bifurcated in multiple stages by sequentially forming mouth bars or by simultaneously forming arrays of mouth bars. During the bifurcation, the diffluent point moved upstream, which resulted in channel migration and the development of a delta lobe. Flood events triggered fan‐delta front slide‐slump deposits.
Effects of storage‐aged red blood cell transfusions on endothelial function in hospitalized patients
Authors: Neuman Robert , Hayek Salim , Rahman Ayaz , Poole Joseph C. , Menon Vivek , Sher Salman , Newman James L. , Karatela Sulaiman , Polhemus David , Lefer David J. , De Staercke Christine , Hooper Craig , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Roback John D.
Published: November 2014

Background

Clinical and animal studies indicate that transfusions of older stored red blood cells (RBCs) impair clinical outcomes as compared to fresh RBC transfusions. It has been suggested that this effect is due to inhibition of nitric oxide (NO)‐mediated vasodilation after transfusion of older RBC units. However, to date this effect has not been identified in human transfusion recipients.

Study Design and Methods

Forty‐three hospitalized patients with transfusion orders were randomly assigned to receive either fresh (<14 days) or older stored (>21 days) RBC units. Before transfusion, and at selected time points after the start of transfusion, endothelial function was assessed using noninvasive flow‐mediated dilation assays.

Results

After transfusion of older RBC units, there was a significant reduction in NO‐mediated vasodilation at 24 hours after transfusion (p = 0.045), while fresh RBC transfusions had no effect (p = 0.231).

Conclusions

This study suggests for the first time a significant inhibitory effect of transfused RBC units stored more than 21 days on NO‐mediated vasodilation in anemic hospitalized patients. This finding lends further support to the hypothesis that deranged NO signaling mediates adverse clinical effects of older RBC transfusions. Future investigations will be necessary to address possible confounding factors and confirm these results.
Methods for the selection of platelet products for alloimmune‐refractory patients
Authors: Kopko Patricia M. , Warner Paul , Kresie Lesley , Pancoska Carol
Published: November 2014

The ability to efficiently and accurately diagnose the cause(s) of platelet (PLT) refractoriness is paramount in providing effective PLT products for transfusion. Recent advances in methods for detecting and identifying alloantibodies against human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) and human PLT antigens, combined with accurate molecular techniques for HLA typing, have provided a framework for the development of clinical algorithms to support such patients. Alloantibodies may be detected and/or identified by several methods, including complement‐dependent cytotoxicity, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), and microbead‐based assays using Luminex or flow cytometry. The primary difference in these assays is the sensitivity of detection and the range of antibody specificities that may be reliably identified. Direct PLT cross‐matching to identify compatible PLTs can be accomplished by several methods, including solid‐phase red cell adherence, modified antigen capture ELISA, and flow cytometry. A survey of blood centers and laboratories providing transfusion support has identified the heterogeneity of testing options available, areas of concern and need for improvement, and common obstacles in providing appropriate and timely support to immune‐refractory PLT patients. Depending on the testing methods and the pool of HLA‐typed PLT donors available, there are numerous options for developing suitable algorithms to provide effective support to immune‐refractory PLT patients.
Optimal Currency Composition for China's Foreign Reserves: A Copula Approach
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Ding Li , Zhang Fan , Zhang Zhuang
Published: November 2014

This paper investigates the optimal currency composition for a country's foreign reserves. In the context of China, we examine the asymmetric, fat‐tail and complex dependence structure in distributions of currency returns. A skewed, fat‐tailed and pair‐copula construction is then built to capture features of higher moments. In a D‐vine copula approach, we show that under the disappointment aversion effect, the central bank in our model can achieve sizeable gains in expected economic value from switching from the mean‐variance to copula modelling. We find that this approach will lead to an optimal currency composition that allows China to have more space for international currency diversification while maintaining the leading position of the US dollar in the currency shares of China's reserves.
Support varieties for rational representations
Authors: Friedlander Eric M.
Published: November 2014

We introduce support varieties for rational representations of a linear algebraic group $G$ of exponential type over an algebraically closed field $k$ of characteristic $p>0$. These varieties are closed subspaces of the space $V(G)$ of all 1-parameter subgroups of $G$. The functor $M\mapsto V(G)_{M}$ satisfies many of the standard properties of support varieties satisfied by finite groups and other finite group schemes. Furthermore, there is a close relationship between $V(G)_{M}$ and the family of support varieties $V_{r}(G)_{M}$ obtained by restricting the $G$ action to Frobenius kernels $G_{(r)}\subset G$. These support varieties seem particularly appropriate for the investigation of infinite-dimensional rational $G$-modules.
Constitutive Models in Simulating Low-Cycle Fatigue and Ratcheting Responses of Elbow
Authors: Hassan T. , Rahman M.
Published: November 2014

As stated in the sister article that the objective of this study was to explore the low-cycle fatigue and ratcheting failure responses of elbow components through experimental and analytical studies. Low-cycle fatigue and ratcheting damage accumulation in piping components may occur under load reversals induced by earthquakes or thermomechanical operations. Ratcheting damage accumulation can cause failure of components through cracking or plastic buckling. Hence, design by analysis of piping components against ratcheting failure will require simulation of this response with reasonable accuracy. In developing a constitutive model that can simulate ratcheting responses of piping components, a systematic set of elbow experiments involving deformation and strain ratcheting were conducted and reported in the sister article. This article will critically evaluate seven different constitutive models against their elbow response simulation capabilities. The widely used bilinear, multilinear, and Chaboche models in ansys are first evaluated. This is followed by evaluation of the modified Chaboche, Ohno–Wang, modified Ohno–Wang, and Abdel Karim–Ohno models. Results from this simulation study are presented to demonstrate that all the seven models can simulate the elbow force response reasonably. The bilinear and multilinear models can simulate the initial elbow diameter change or strain accumulation, but always simulate shakedown during the subsequent cycles when for some of the cases the experimental trends are ratcheting. Advanced constitutive models like Chaboche, modified Chaboche, Ohno–Wang, modified Ohno–Wang, and Abdel Karim–Ohno can simulate many of the elbow ratcheting responses well, but for some of the strain responses, these models simulate negative ratcheting, which is opposite to the experimental trend. Finally, implications of negative ratcheting simulation are discussed and suggestions are made for improving constitutive models ratcheting response simulation.
Straightforward electrical measurement of forward-voltage to investigate thermal effects in InGaN/GaN high-brightness light-emitting diodes
Authors: Hancock Bobby Logan , Holtz Mark
Published: November 2014

The junction temperature of InGaN/GaN MQW high-brightness light-emitting diodes is measured using an electrical method based on the dependence of diode forward voltage, Vf, on the junction temperature Tj. Electroluminescence (EL) data collected during this measurement are presented and used to compare the efficacy of this method for measuring Tj to the electrical technique. In devices based on polar III-nitride materials, the temperature dependence of the EL peak energy is obscured by carrier screening and bandfilling; the contributions of these effects are explored and presented. Additionally, the experimental method presented offers an application for extrapolating a thermal relaxation time during the junction temperature measurement. The results from this thermal time constant study are presented and discussed.
Fabrication of silicon nanostructures with large taper angle by reactive ion etching
Authors: Saffih Faycal , Con Celal , Alshammari Alanoud , Yavuz Mustafa , Cui Bo
Published: November 2014

Micro- and nanostructures with a tapered sidewall profile are important for antireflection and light trapping applications in solar cell, light emitting diode, and photodetector/imager. Here, the authors will show two etching processes that offer a large taper angle. The first process involved a mask-less etching of pre-etched silicon structures having a vertical profile, using a recipe that would give a vertical profile when masked. The authors obtained a moderate taper angle of 14° using CF4/O2 etching gas. The second process involved a one-step etching step with Cr as mask using a recipe that was drastically modified from a nonswitching pseudo-Bosch process that gives a vertical profile. The gas flow ratio of C4F8/SF6 was greatly increased from 38/22 to 59/1 to result in a taper angle of 22°. Further reduction of the RF bias power led to an unprecedented large taper angle of 39° (at the cost of greatly reduced etching rate), which is even higher than the angle obtained by anisotropic wet etching of silicon.
Thin film analysis by low-energy ion scattering by use of TRBS simulations
Authors: Brüner Philipp , Grehl Thomas , Brongersma Hidde , Detlefs Blanka , Nolot Emmanuel , Grampeix Helen , Steinbauer Erich , Bauer Peter
Published: November 2014

Low energy ion scattering (LEIS) spectra of thin film structures are analyzed by Monte-Carlo simulations using the TRBS code. Although originally developed for the analysis of Rutherford backscattering (RBS) spectra, the TRBS code can be used to obtain valid simulations of LEIS data, which take place at energies several orders of magnitude lower than in RBS, when the appropriate adjustments are made. Experimental results from a set of Al2O3/HfO2 thin film stacks are shown, and their analysis by means of TRBS simulations is demonstrated. The authors show that the simulations yield valuable insights, especially in the case of ultrathin films <1 nm, where traditional evaluation methods using empirical models can be misleading.