bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing a multicomponent junction for improved visible-light photocatalytic performance induced by Au nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Lequan , Li Peng , Wang Tao , Hu Huilin , Jiang Haiying , Liu Huimin , Ye Jinhua
Published: December 2014

The construction of a multicomponent junction nanostructure is demonstrated to be an effective strategy to promote Au-induced visible-light photocatalytic performance.
Diferrocenyl tosyl hydrazone with an ultrastrong NH⋯Fe hydrogen bond as double click switch
Authors: Förster Christoph , Veit Philipp , Ksenofontov Vadim , Heinze Katja
Published: December 2014

The intramolecular NH⋯Fe hydrogen bond in diferrocenyl hydrazone 2 raises the barrier for intramolecular electron transfer in its mixed-valent cation 2+ and is only disrupted by double oxidation to 22+.
The facile surface chemical modification of a single glass nanopore and its use in the nonenzymatic detection of uric acid
Authors: He Haili , Xu Xiaolong , Wang Ping , Chen Lizhen , Jin Yongdong
Published: December 2014

A single glass nanopore was modified with gold through a facile chemical method and used for the non-enzymatic detection of uric acid.
Chemistry in one dimension
Authors: Loos Pierre-François , Ball Caleb J. , Gill Peter M. W.
Published: December 2014

Orbital basis functions in a one-dimensional triatomic molecule ABC.
Relaxation of a hydrophilic polymer induced by moisture desorption through the glass transition
Authors: Zhang Xiaolong , Hu Hongjiu , Guo Manxia
Published: December 2014

The relaxation of a hydrophilic polymer induced by relative humidity down-jump through the glass transition contains multiple stages.
Pyrosequencing revealed highly microbial phylogenetic diversity in ferromanganese nodules from farmland
Authors: Hu Min , Li Fangbai , Lei Jing , Fang Yuan , Tong Hui , Wu Weijian , Liu Chengshuai
Published: December 2014

There is renewed interest in the origin and makeup of ferromanganese nodules (FMNs), long known to soil mineralogists as unusual secondary minerals.
Much ado about α: reframing the debate over appropriate fate descriptors in nanoparticle environmental risk modeling
Authors: Dale Amy L. , Lowry Gregory V. , Casman Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2014

Mass balance is currently as useful as number balance in nanoparticle risk assessment, even though it ignores particle properties.
Bimolecular photoactivation of NBD fluorescence
Authors: Ragab Sherif Shaban , Swaminathan Subramani , Garcia-Amorós Jaume , Captain Burjor , Raymo Françisco M.
Published: December 2014

The photoinduced deprotection of a nucleophilic species converts a nonemissive NBD chromophore into an emissive product and allows fluorescence activation under optical control.
Correction: Extraction and electrochemical detection of capsaicin and ascorbic acid from fresh chilli using ionic liquids
Authors: Lau Benjamin B. Y. , Panchompoo Janjira , Aldous Leigh
Published: December 2014

Correction for ‘Extraction and electrochemical detection of capsaicin and ascorbic acid from fresh chilli using ionic liquids’ by Benjamin B. Y. Lau et al., New J. Chem., 2015, DOI: 10.1039/c4nj01416b.
Tetraarylphosphonium polyelectrolyte chromophores: synthesis, stability, photophysics, film morphology and critical surface energy
Authors: Bedford Monte S. , Yang Xiaoyan , Jolly Kara M. , Binnicker Rachel L. , Cramer Samuel B. , Keen Caitlin E. , Mairena Connor J. , Patel Amar P. , Rivenbark Meredith T. , Galabura Yuriy , Luzinov Igor , Smith Rhett C.
Published: December 2014

Chromophore-modified polymers with tetraarylphosphonium units in the main chain have been prepared by a Ni-catalysed P–C bond-forming reaction.
Epoxy benzoxazine based ternary systems of improved thermo-mechanical behavior for structural composite applications
Authors: Rajesh Kumar S. , Dhanasekaran J. , Krishna Mohan S.
Published: December 2014

Novel epoxy benzoxazine ternary mixtures with improved and balanced thermo-mechanical properties when compared to polybenzoxazine.
Effects of strain on the band gap and effective mass in two-dimensional monolayer GaX (X = S, Se, Te)
Authors: Huang Le , Chen Zhanghui , Li Jingbo
Published: December 2014

First-principles calculations have been performed to study the mechanical and electronic properties of two-dimensional monolayer GaX (X = S, Se, Te) under strain.
Hierarchical TiO2 nanoflowers/nanosheets array film: synthesis, growth mechanism and enhanced photoelectrochemical properties
Authors: Yao Huizhen , Ma Jinwen , Mu Yannan , Chen Yanli , Su Shi , Lv Pin , Zhang Xiaolin , Ding Dong , Fu Wuyou , Yang Haibin
Published: December 2014

The possible growth mechanism of a hierarchical TiO2 nanoflower/nanosheet array was is presented. The TiO2 NFSs array film perpendicularly grown on transparent conductive fluorine-doped tin oxide glass substrates was prepared via a one-step template-free hydrothermal method.
Stationary cavitation bubbles forming on a delta wing vortex
Authors: Ganesh Harish , Schot Joost , Ceccio Steven L.
Published: December 2014

Vortex cavitation forming in the leading-edge vortices of a delta wing was examined to determine how the individual cavitation bubbles incepted, grew, interacted with the underlying vortical flow and produced acoustic tones. The non-cavitating vortical flow over the delta wing was chosen to be similar to those previously reported in the literature. It was found that vortex breakdown was unaffected by the presence of incipient and developed vortex cavitation bubbles in the vortex core. While some cavitation bubbles incepted, grew, and collapsed relatively quickly, others reached an equilibrium position wherein the bubble tip was stationary in the laboratory frame at a particular location along the vortex axis. For a given attack angle, the equilibrium location moved upstream with a reduction in free stream cavitation number. It is shown that the existence of these stationary vortex bubbles is possible when there is a balance between the axial growth of the bubble along the vortex axis and the opposite motion of the axial jetting flow in the vortex core, and only a single equilibrium position is possible along the axially evolving vortex for a given free stream cavitation number. These transient and stationary vortex bubbles emit significant cavitation noise upon inception, growth, and collapse. The spectral content of the noise produced was expected to be related to the interaction of the bubble with the surrounding vortical flow in a manner similar to that reported in previous studies, where sustained tones were similar to the underlying vortex frequency. However, in the present study, the dominant frequency and higher harmonics of the tones occur at a higher frequency than that of the underlying vortex. Hence, it is likely that the highly elongated stationary bubbles have higher-order volume oscillations compared to the two-dimensional radial mode of the vortex cores of vortex cavitation bubbles with much smaller diameter-to-length ratios.
Quasi-optical electron transport across a magnetically induced junction on a topological insulator surface
Authors: Duan Xiaopeng , Li Xiaodong , Semenov Yuriy G. , Kim Ki Wook
Published: December 2014

Quasi-optical Dirac electron transport is theoretically analyzed at the magnetic boundaries on a topological insulator (TI) surface. The electronic band mismatch induced by the spatially varying magnetization profile can form an effective junction akin to the electrostatic potential step. The transmission/reflection characteristics show a direct dependence on electron energy and incident angle with highly asymmetric patterns. The investigation also illustrates a nontrivial anomalous Hall current along the boundary which is further shown by a numerical simulation based on the finite-difference time-domain method. The results provide key design guidelines for prospective quasi-optical devices based on the TI-magnet heterostructures.
Copper(I) oxide based thermoelectric powders and pastes with high Seebeck coefficients
Authors: Andrei Virgil , Bethke Kevin , Rademann Klaus
Published: December 2014

Copper(I) oxide based compounds are investigated as earth abundant, environmentally friendly thermoelectric materials. Copper(I) oxide powders from different vendors are first examined, resulting in Seebeck coefficients of approximately 650 μV/K. Pastes of the powders with two different polymer matrices, polychlorotrifluoroethene and polydimethylsiloxane, in various mass ratios produce values reaching 567 ± 5 μV/K. Small quantities of transition metal oxides added to the already mentioned compounds produce further enhancements of 729 ± 4 μV/K in case of the powders and 606 ± 5 μV/K for the polymers. The results offer motivation for further research in the field of thermoelectric pastes, which is still in its foundation stage.
Generation of energetic protons in the interaction of Gaussian laser pulses with surface modulated targets
Authors: Wang W. Q. , Yin Y. , Yu T. P. , Xu H. , Hu L. X. , Zhuo H. B. , Ma Y. Y. , Shao F. Q.
Published: December 2014

The radiation pressure acceleration of protons in the interaction of Gaussian laser pulses and surface modulated targets is examined by multi-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. It is shown that strong longitudinal quasi-static magnetic field is generated on the modulated surface of the target, which significantly enhances the transverse diffusion of electrons. This is beneficial for suppressing the transverse Rayleigh-Taylor instability. Finally, the surface of the accelerated proton beams becomes smoother than that in the case of the planar target, and a final mono-energetic proton beam is obtained by using the surface modulated target.
Optical and electrical simulations of silicon nanowire array/Poly(3-hexylthiophene):Phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester hybrid solar cell
Authors: Wang Wenbo , Li Xinhua , Wen Long , Liu Guangqiang , Shi Tongfei , Duan Huahua , Zhou BuKang , Li Ning , Zhao Yufeng , Zeng Xuesong , Wang Yuqi
Published: December 2014

A coupled three-dimensional optoelectrical simulation was used to evaluate the optical and electrical designs requirements for improving the efficiency of Si nanowire array (NWA)/Poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT):phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) solar cells. Due to the addition of organic coating layers, better light absorptions are observed for the Si NWA/P3HT:PCBM structure at the wavelengths both below and above the absorption cutoff wavelengths of P3HT:PCBM. Optimized optical designs are obtained by maximizing the ultimate photocurrent under AM1.5G illumination. Furthermore, from the electrical simulation of the solar cell at optimized photo-absorption structure, the proposed Si NWA/P3HT:PCBM hybrid cell exhibits a promising character that is insensitive to exciton recombination at the optimized coating thickness of 80 nm. An efficiency of 9.4% can still be obtained even at high bimolecular recombination rates.
Energy resolved actinometry for simultaneous measurement of atomic oxygen densities and local mean electron energies in radio-frequency driven plasmas
Authors: Greb Arthur , Niemi Kari , O'Connell Deborah , Gans Timo
Published: December 2014

A diagnostic method for the simultaneous determination of atomic oxygen densities and mean electron energies is demonstrated for an atmospheric pressure radio-frequency plasma jet. The proposed method is based on phase resolved optical emission measurements of the direct and dissociative electron-impact excitation dynamics of three distinct emission lines, namely, Ar 750.4 nm, O 777.4 nm, and O 844.6 nm. The energy dependence of these lines serves as basis for analysis by taking into account two line ratios. In this frame, the method is highly adaptable with regard to pressure and gas composition. Results are benchmarked against independent numerical simulations and two-photon absorption laser-induced fluorescence experiments.
Numerical simulation of fluid flow through random packs of polydisperse cylinders
Authors: Matsumura Y. , Jackson T. L.
Published: December 2014

The macroscopic properties of two-dimensional random periodic packs of polydisperse cylinders are investigated by means of numerical methods. We solve the unsteady, two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations on a staggered Cartesian grid and use the immersed boundary method to treat internal flow boundaries. The effects of porosity, polydispersity, and Reynolds numbers on the macroscopic permeability are studied. For small Reynolds numbers, we show that the permeability can be correlated to the underlying microstructure by means of a suitably defined statistical descriptor, the mean shortest Delaunay edge. With proper scaling, the results for polydisperse cylinders collapse onto the data for monodisperse cylinders, which can then be fitted with a universal curve. We also carry out a statistical analysis of the permeability computed for 500 samples and show that rare events, where the permeability lies outside the mean plus/minus three times the standard deviation, are possible. Finally, for larger Reynolds numbers, we show that a modified Forchheimer equation can characterize the flow.
A comparison of weak-turbulence and particle-in-cell simulations of weak electron-beam plasma interaction
Authors: Ratcliffe H. , Brady C. S. , Che Rozenan M. B. , Nakariakov V. M.
Published: December 2014

Quasilinear theory has long been used to treat the problem of a weak electron beam interacting with plasma and generating Langmuir waves. Its extension to weak-turbulence theory treats resonant interactions of these Langmuir waves with other plasma wave modes, in particular, ion-sound waves. These are strongly damped in plasma of equal ion and electron temperatures, as sometimes seen in, for example, the solar corona and wind. Weak turbulence theory is derived in the weak damping limit, with a term describing ion-sound wave damping then added. In this paper, we use the EPOCH particle-in-cell code to numerically test weak turbulence theory for a range of electron-ion temperature ratios. We find that in the cold ion limit, the results agree well, but for increasing ion temperature the three-wave resonance becomes broadened in proportion to the ion-sound wave damping rate. Additionally, we establish lower limits on the number of simulation particles needed to accurately reproduce the electron and wave distributions in their saturated states and to reproduce their intermediate states and time evolution. These results should be taken into consideration in, for example, simulations of plasma wave generation in the solar corona of Type III solar radio bursts from the corona to the solar wind and in weak turbulence investigations of ion-acoustic lines in the ionosphere.
Ultra-fast solid state electro-optical modulator based on liquid crystal polymer and liquid crystal composites
Authors: Ouskova Elena , Sio Luciano De , Vergara Rafael , White Timothy J. , Tabiryan Nelson , Bunning Timothy J.
Published: December 2014

A different generation of polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) based on a liquid crystalline polymer host is reported wherein the fluid behavior of the reactive mesogenic monomer is an enabler to concentration windows (liquid crystal polymer/liquid crystal) (and subsequent morphologies) not previously explored. These liquid crystal (LC) polymer/LC composites, LCPDLCs, exhibit excellent optical and electro-optical properties with negligible scattering losses in both the ON and OFF states. These systems thus have application in systems where fast phase modulation of optical signal instead of amplitude control is needed. Polarized optical microscopy and high resolution scanning electron microscopy confirm a bicontinuous morphology composed of aligned LC polymer coexisting with a phase separated LC fluid. Operating voltages, switching times, and spectra of LCPDLCs compare favourably to conventional PDLC films. The LCPDLCs exhibit a low switching voltage (4–5 V/μm), symmetric and submillisecond (200 μs) on/off response times, and high transmission in both the as formed and switched state in a phase modulation geometry.
Thermal stability of photovoltaic a-Si:H determined by neutron reflectometry
Authors: Qviller A. J. , Dennison A. J. C. , Haug H. , You C. C. , Hasle I. M. , Østreng E. , Fjellvåg H. , Vorobiev A. , Hjörvarsson B. , Marstein E. S. , Frommen C. , Hauback B. C.
Published: December 2014

Neutron and X-ray reflectometry were used to determine the layer structure and hydrogen content of thin films of amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) deposited onto crystalline silicon (Si) wafers for surface passivation in solar cells. The combination of these two reflectometry techniques is well suited for non-destructive probing of the structure of a-Si:H due to being able to probe buried interfaces and having sub-nanometer resolution. Neutron reflectometry is also unique in its ability to allow determination of density gradients of light elements such as hydrogen (H). The neutron scattering contrast between Si and H is strong, making it possible to determine the H concentration in the deposited a-Si:H. In order to correlate the surface passivation properties supplied by the a-Si:H thin films, as quantified by obtainable effective minority carrier lifetime, photoconductance measurements were also performed. It is shown that the minority carrier lifetime falls sharply when H has been desorbed from a-Si:H by annealing.
Leukotriene production profiles and actions in the bovine endometrium during the oestrous cycle
Authors: Korzekwa Anna J. , Milewski Robert , Łupicka Martyna , Skarzynski Dariusz J.
Published: December 2014

We have previously shown the influence of leukotrienes (LTs) on reproductive functions in vivo: LTB4 is luteotrophic and supports corpus luteum function inducing PGE2 and progesterone (P4) secretion, whereas LTC4 is luteolytic and stimulates PGF2α secretion in cattle. The aim of this study was to examine expression and production profiles of LTs and their actions in the endometrium. LT receptors (LTB4R for LTB4 and CysLTR2 for LTC4), 5-lipoxygenase (LO), 12-LO synthase (LTCS) and LTA4 hydrolase (LTAH) mRNA and protein expression, as well as LT production were measured in bovine endometrial tissue during the luteal phases of the oestrous cycle. The action of LTs on uterine function was studied by measuring the level of PGs after stimulating uterine slices with LTs on Days 8–10 of the cycle. Expression of 5-LO and LTB4R mRNA and protein were highest on Days 2–4 of the cycle, while CysLTR2 and LTCS were highest on Days 16–18 (P < 0.05). LTB4 concentration was highest on Days 2–4 of the cycle, whereas the greatest LTC4 level was on Days 16–18 (P < 0.05). Both LTB4 and C4 increased the content of PGE2 and F2α in endometrial slices at a dose of 10–7 M (P < 0.05). In summary, mRNA expression and activation of receptors for LTB4 and production occur in the first part of the cycle, whereas LTC4 and its receptors predominate at the end of the cycle. The 12-LO and 5-LO pathways are complementary routes of LT production in the bovine uterus.
Synthetic approach toward complexity of sialic acid-containing glycans
Authors: Ando Hiromune
Published: December 2014

The biological relevance of sialic acid-containing glycans (sialo-glycans) to various interactions at the cell surface has increased the demand for the supply of structurally defined sialo-glycans. Due to their unique structures, the stereoselective synthesis of glycosides of sialic acid is inherently difficult, which makes the synthetic approach to synthesize diverse and complex sialo-glycans far from successful. However, the gap between the chemical and natural synthesis of complex sialo-glycans is narrowing through the emergence of synthetic methods. This review highlights recent progress made in the synthesis of complex sialo-glycans via cutting-edge synthetic methods.
Robust and Discordant Evidence: Methodological Lessons from Clinical Research
Authors: Hey Spencer Phillips
Published: December 2014

The concordance of results that are “robust” across multiple scientific modalities is widely considered to play a critical role in the epistemology of science. But what should we make of those cases where such multimodal evidence is discordant? Jacob Stegenga has recently argued that robustness is “worse than useless” in these cases, suggesting that “different kinds of evidence cannot be combined in a coherent way.” In this article I respond to this critique and illustrate the critical methodological role that robustness plays as an aim of scientific inquiry.
3D viscous incompressible fluid around one thin obstacle
Authors: Lacave C.
Published: December 2014

In this article, we consider Leray solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations in the exterior of one obstacle in 3D and we study the asymptotic behavior of these solutions when the obstacle shrinks to a curve or to a surface. In particular, we will prove that a solid curve has no effect on the motion of a viscous fluid, so it is a removable singularity for these equations.
Different Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and the Associations With Overall and Cause-Specific Mortalities in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Chang Chia-Hsuin , Lin Jou-Wei , Caffrey James L. , Wu Li-Chiu , Lai Mei-Shu
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been widely used in the treatment of hypertension, but the comparative effectiveness in reducing mortality among different drugs is seldom reported.

METHODS

We identified hypertensive patients who started captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, fosinopril, perindopril, ramipril, or imidapril therapy from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance database between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2009. Overall and cause-specific mortalities were ascertained through a linkage to Taiwan’s National Death Registry. Patients were followed from the initiation of ACE inhibitors to death, disenrollment, or study termination (31 December 2010). A Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI), using ramipril as the reference group.

RESULTS

A total of 989,489 hypertensive patients were included, with a mean follow-up ranging from 3.5 years for imidapril to 4.5 years for enalapril. Captopril initiators had the highest overall mortality rate (117.8 per 1,000,000 person–days) as compared to other ACE inhibitors (54.3–79.4 per 1,000,000 person–days). Patients who started captopril therapy had a significantly increased risk of overall mortality (HR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.24–1.31) when compared with ramipril. Enalapril (HR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.05–1.11) and fosinopril (HR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.05–1.12) were also associated with a modestly increased risk. No difference in mortality was found for lisinopril, perindopril, and imidapril, as compared with ramipril.

CONCLUSIONS

There are differences in the mortality risk associated with different ACE inhibitors. However, potential residual confounding effects might still exist.
Stage I Lung SBRT Clinical Practice Patterns
Authors: Corso Christopher D. , Park Henry S. , Moreno Amy C. , Kim Anthony W. , Yu James B. , Husain Zain A. , Decker Roy H.
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has become increasingly utilized over the last decade in the treatment of inoperable stage I non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, although no standardized dosing guidelines exist. In this retrospective study, we investigated the dose prescription pattern use in the United States for patients receiving SBRT.

Methods:

Patients with stage I NSCLC treated with SBRT between 2004 and 2011 were identified within the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Trends in SBRT use and dose prescriptions were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 5246 patients met criteria as receiving SBRT. The overall mean and median BED10 were 134.5 and 132 Gy, respectively. Of these patients, 94.5% were prescribed a regimen with a BED10≥100 Gy. The most common prescriptions overall were 60 Gy in 3 fractions (24.1%), 48 Gy in 4 fractions (17.8%), 50 Gy in 5 fractions (13.0%), and 54 Gy in 3 fractions (12.8%). Analysis of prescription trends revealed decreased utilization of 54 to 60 Gy in 3 fractions (47.9% in 2006 to 27.9% in 2011, combined) and increased utilization of 50 Gy in 5 fractions (3.1% in 2006 to 20.4% in 2011).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest increasing use of SBRT over the last decade with a majority of patients being treated with regimens employing a BED10≥100 Gy. Since 2006, there has been a decline in the use of 54 to 60 Gy in 3 fractions, with an increase in the use of 50 Gy in 5 fractions. Possible explanations include concern for increased toxicity with higher BED regimens and increasing treatment of centrally located tumors.
Lymph Node Burden as a Predictive Factor for Selective Chemoradiotherapy in Patients With Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer After a D2 Dissection
Authors: Li Qiwen , Li Guichao , Palmer Joshua D. , Zhang Zhen
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

The role of adjuvant radiation in locally advanced gastric cancer after a D2 lymph node dissection is not well defined. The Adjuvant Chemoradiation Therapy in Stomach Cancer trial demonstrated a benefit in selected patients with positive lymph nodes. This study further defines lymph node burden as a predictive factor for adjuvant radiation in locally advanced gastric cancer after radical D2 lymph node dissection.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred eighty-six patients with locally advanced gastric cancer and D2 dissections were retrospectively investigated. Patients were divided into 2 equal and well-balanced groups based on clinicopathologic characteristics, with half receiving chemoradiation and the other half chemotherapy alone. Clinical outcomes and recurrence patterns were compared. Lymph node ratio (LNR) was defined as ratio of positive to examined nodes. Chemotherapies were fluorouracil-based regimens. Radiation was prescribed to 45 Gy (range, 45 to 50.4 Gy) using 3-dimensional conformal or intensity-modulated radiation therapy techniques.

Results:

There was no difference between patients treated with or without radiation in 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) (57.0% vs. 62.0%, P=0.30) or 3-year overall survival (72.8% vs. 77.4%, P=0.23). However, patients with LNR>0.65 or 3 to 6 positive nodes (N2) had improved 3-year DFS and 3-year distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) in the chemoradiation group (LNR>0.65 vs. LNR≤0.65: 3-y DFS: 35.8% vs. 0%, P=0.052, 3-y DMFS: 75.2% vs. 0%, P=0.026; N2 vs. non-N2: 3-y DFS: 84.7% vs. 57.1%, P=0.046, 3-y DMFS: 100.0% vs. 65.3%, P=0.036).

Conclusions:

N2 or LNR>0.65 may be indications for adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Further randomized studies are needed for validation.
The speed of an inclined ruck
Authors: Balmforth N. J. , Craster R. V. , Hewitt I. J.
Published: December 2014

Steady rucks in an elastic beam can roll at constant speed down an inclined plane. We examine the dynamics of these travelling-wave structures and argue that their speed can be dictated by a combination of the physical conditions arising in the vicinity of the ‘contact points’ where the beam is peeled off the underlying plane and stuck back down. We provide three detailed models for the contact dynamics: viscoelastic fracture, a thermodynamic model for bond formation and detachment and adhesion mediated by a thin liquid film. The results are compared with experiments.
Alicyclobacillus dauci sp. nov., a slightly thermophilic, acidophilic bacterium isolated from a spoiled mixed vegetable and fruit juice product
Authors: Nakano Chisa , Takahashi Naoto , Tanaka Naoto , Okada Sanae
Published: December 2014

A novel, moderately thermophilic, acidophilic, Gram-variable, rod-shaped, endospore-forming bacterium was isolated from a spoiled mixed vegetable and fruit juice product that had the off-flavour of guaiacol. The bacterium, strain 4FT, grew aerobically at 20–50 °C (optimum 40 °C) and pH 3.0–6.0 (optimum pH 4.0) and produced acid from glycerol, d-galactose and d-glucose. It contained menaquinone-7 (MK-7) as the major isoprenoid quinone and the DNA G+C content was 49.6 mol%. The predominant cellular fatty acids of strain 4FT were ω-alicyclic (ω-cyclohexane fatty acids), which are characteristic of the genus

Alicyclobacillus

. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the strain belongs to the

Alicyclobacillus

cluster, and is related most closely to the type strains of

Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris

(97.4 % similarity) and

Alicyclobacillus fastidiosus

(97.3 %). Strain 4FT produced guaiacol from vanillic acid. It can be distinguished from related species by its acid production type and guaiacol production. On the basis of phenotypic characteristics, phylogenetic analysis and DNA–DNA relatedness values, it can be concluded that the strain represents a novel species of the genus

Alicyclobacillus

, for which the name Alicyclobacillus dauci sp. nov. is proposed; the type strain is 4FT ( = DSM 28700T = NBRC 108949T = NRIC 0938T).
Why We Should Not Be Indifferent to Specification Choices for Difference‐in‐Differences
Authors: Ryan Andrew M. , Burgess James F. , Dimick Justin B.
Published: December 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effects of specification choices on the accuracy of estimates in difference‐in‐differences (DID) models.

Data Sources

Process‐of‐care quality data from Hospital Compare between 2003 and 2009.

Study Design

We performed a Monte Carlo simulation experiment to estimate the effect of an imaginary policy on quality. The experiment was performed for three different scenarios in which the probability of treatment was (1) unrelated to pre‐intervention performance; (2) positively correlated with pre‐intervention levels of performance; and (3) positively correlated with pre‐intervention trends in performance. We estimated alternative DID models that varied with respect to the choice of data intervals, the comparison group, and the method of obtaining inference. We assessed estimator bias as the mean absolute deviation between estimated program effects and their true value. We evaluated the accuracy of inferences through statistical power and rates of false rejection of the null hypothesis.

Principal Findings

Performance of alternative specifications varied dramatically when the probability of treatment was correlated with pre‐intervention levels or trends. In these cases, propensity score matching resulted in much more accurate point estimates. The use of permutation tests resulted in lower false rejection rates for the highly biased estimators, but the use of clustered standard errors resulted in slightly lower false rejection rates for the matching estimators.

Conclusions

When treatment and comparison groups differed on pre‐intervention levels or trends, our results supported specifications for DID models that include matching for more accurate point estimates and models using clustered standard errors or permutation tests for better inference. Based on our findings, we propose a checklist for DID analysis.
Practical recommendations for improvement of the physical health care of patients with severe mental illness
Authors: van Hasselt F. M. , Oud M. J. T. , Loonen A. J. M.
Published: December 2014

Objective

Health care for the physical health of patients with severe mental illness (SMI) needs to be improved. Therefore, we aimed to develop policy recommendations to improve this physical health care in the Netherlands based on consensus (general agreement) between the major stakeholders.

Method

A modified Delphi was used to explore barriers and subsequently establish policy recommendations with all key stakeholders. Consensus was sought between patients with SMI, their family carers, general practitioners, and mental healthcare professionals – all experts in the everyday practice of health care.

Results

Consensus was reached on policy recommendations regarding (i) improvements in collaboration between healthcare professionals, (ii) the need for professional education on the specific medical risks of patients with SMI, and (iii) the distinguished responsibilities of general practitioners on the one hand and mental healthcare professionals on the other hand in taking care of patients' physical health.

Conclusion

This article provides a range of policy recommendations that could lead to considerable improvements in the physical health of SMI patients.
mRNA Destabilizing Factors: Tristetraprolin Expression at the Porcine Maternal–Fetal Interface
Authors: Khalaj Kasra , Wessels Jocelyn M. , Kridli Rami T. , Bidarimath Mallikarjun , LaMarre Jonathan , Tayade Chandrakant
Published: December 2014

Problem

To evaluate the expression of the tristetraprolin family and their selected targets during porcine pregnancy.

Method of study

Using qPCR and Western blot, mRNA and protein levels were compared between endometrium and chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) associated with healthy and impaired conceptuses at gestation day (gd) 20 and gd50, respectively. Immunohistochemistry was performed to determine localization of TIS11 family members at gd20 and 50.

Results

Multiple significant differences (P < 0.05) in TIS11 family transcripts were observed in the aforementioned comparisons. GM‐CSF was significantly higher in healthy endometrium and CAM from impaired conceptus attachment sites. TNF‐α was elevated in CAM as compared to endometrium at gd50, regardless of conceptus health status. Immunohistochemical staining shows TIS11 family expressed in the glandular and luminal epithelium, as well as stromal cells in the uterus.

Conclusions

The shift in the expression of tristetraprolin (TTP) and TIS11D points to a potential role of these genes in regulating spontaneous fetal loss.
Investigation into the effect of infrastructure on fly‐in fly‐out mining workers
Authors: Perring Adam , Pham Kieu , Snow Steve , Buys Laurie
Published: December 2014

Objective

To explore fly‐in fly‐out (FIFO) mining workers' attitudes towards the leisure time they spend in mining camps, the recreational and social aspects of mining camp culture, the camps' communal and recreational infrastructure and activities, and implications for health.

Design

In‐depth semistructured interviews.

Setting

Individual interviews at locations convenient for each participant.

Participants

A total of seven participants, one female and six males. The age group varied within 20–59 years. Marital status varied across participants.

Main outcome measures

A qualitative approach was used to interview participants, with responses thematically analysed. Findings highlight how the recreational infrastructure and activities at mining camps impact participants' enjoyment of the camps and their feelings of community and social inclusion.

Results

Three main areas of need were identified in the interviews, as follows: (i) on‐site facilities and activities; (ii) the role of infrastructure in facilitating a sense of community; and (iii) barriers to social interaction.

Conclusion

Recreational infrastructure and activities enhance the experience of FIFO workers at mining camps. The availability of quality recreational facilities helps promote social interaction, provides for greater social inclusion and improves the experience of mining camps for their temporary FIFO residents. The infrastructure also needs to allow for privacy and individual recreational activities, which participants identified as important emotional needs. Developing appropriate recreational infrastructure at mining camps would enhance social interactions among FIFO workers, improve their well‐being and foster a sense of community. Introducing infrastructure to promote social and recreational activities could also reduce alcohol‐related social exclusion.
Quantitative or qualitative carbon dioxide monitoring for manual ventilation: a mannequin study
Authors: Hawkes GA , Kenosi M , Ryan CA , Dempsey EM
Published: December 2014

Aim

To compare the effectiveness of an in‐line EtCO2 detector (DET) and a quantitative EtCO2 detector (CAP), both attached to a t‐piece resuscitator, during PPV via a face mask.

Methods

Paediatric trainees were randomly assigned to determine the method of PPV they commenced with (No device (ND), DET or CAP). Participants used each method for 2 min. Participants were video‐recorded to determine the amount of effective ventilations delivered with each method.

Results

Twenty‐three paediatric trainees provided a total of 6035 ventilations, and 91.2% were deemed effective. The percentages of median effective ventilations with the ND, the DET and the CAP were 91.0%, 93.0% and 94.0%, respectively. Fourteen (61%) of the trainees indicated a preference for the DET method, 8 (35%) for the CAP method, and 1 (4%) of the trainees indicated a preference for the ND method. Capnography was the most effective method per patient.

Conclusion

There was no adverse effect with the addition of EtCO2 detectors. Trainees favoured methods of EtCO2 monitoring during ventilation. The NeoStat device was the preferred device by the majority. The greatest efficacy was achieved with the capnography device. Capnography may enhance face mask ventilation.
When corporate social responsibility (CSR) increases performance: exploring the role of intrinsic and extrinsic CSR attribution
Authors: Story Joana , Neves Pedro
Published: December 2014

This study investigates whether employees attribute different motives to their organization's corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts and if these motives influence employee performance. Specifically, we investigate whether employees could distinguish between intrinsic and extrinsic CSR motives by surveying 229 employee–supervisor dyads from various industries (companies that have reputable CSR programs in Portugal), and the impact of these perceptions on in‐role and extra‐role performance of subordinates. We found that employee task performance increases when employees attribute both intrinsic and extrinsic motives for CSR. Moreover, when employees perceive that their organization invests in a CSR practice that is both intrinsic and extrinsic, they also tend to exert extra effort in their work. Theoretical and practical implications are also discussed alongside future research directions.
The genomic landscape of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: biological and clinical implications
Authors: Strefford Jonathan C.
Published: December 2014

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) remains at the forefront of the genetic analysis of human tumours, principally due its prevalence, protracted natural history and accessibility to suitable material for analysis. With the application of high‐throughput genetic technologies, we have an unbridled view of the architecture of the CLL genome, including a comprehensive description of the copy number and mutational landscape of the disease, a detailed picture of clonal evolution during pathogenesis, and the molecular mechanisms that drive genomic instability and therapeutic resistance. This work has nuanced the prognostic importance of established copy number alterations, and identified novel prognostically relevant gene mutations that function within biological pathways that are attractive treatment targets. Herein, an overview of recent genomic discoveries will be reviewed, with associated biological and clinical implications, and a view into how clinical implementation may be facilitated.
Growth hormone secretion decreases with age in paediatric Prader‐Willi syndrome
Authors: Cohen M. , Harrington J. , Narang I. , Hamilton J.
Published: December 2014

Objective

Growth hormone deficiency is a common feature of Prader‐Willi syndrome; however, biochemical deficiency is not uniformly demonstrated. Criteria for GH treatment in paediatric PWS vary with some countries requiring documentation of biochemical GH deficiency. Data regarding the significance of age in the interpretation of GH stimulation test results, particularly in infants, are lacking. We aimed to assess age‐related trends in the prevalence of biochemical GH deficiency in infants and children with PWS.

Design

A retrospective chart review was conducted. Data from children with Prader‐Willi syndrome that had GH stimulation tests performed at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto between the years 2000 and 2012 were collected.

Patient

Charts of 47 children 0·4–15·5 years of age with PWS that had GH stimulation tests were reviewed.

Measurements

Biochemical GH status in relation to age and body mass index.

Results

Thirty‐two of 47 patients (68%) were biochemically GH deficient. GH deficiency was significantly associated with older age (r = 0·45, P = 0·02) and higher body‐mass‐index z‐score (r = 0·45, P = 0·02). Biochemical GH deficiency was less prevalent up to 18 months of age (3/11 27%) compared with older children (29/36 [81%]; P = 0·001). A higher prevalence of GH deficiency was also detected in obese patients (14/16 [88%]) compared with nonobese patients (18/31 [58%]; P = 0·04).

Conclusions

The utility of performing GH stimulation tests as an indication of GH status under 18 months of age in Prader‐Willi syndrome is questionable. If performed, results should be carefully interpreted in the context of age.
Risk of cancer in the rectal remnant after ileorectal anastomosis in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis: Single center experience
Authors: Maehata Yuji , Esaki Motohiro , Nakamura Shotaro , Hirahashi Minako , Ueki Takashi , Iida Mitsuo , Kitazono Takanari , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim

We aimed to evaluate the long‐term risk of cancer in the rectal remnant in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis after ileorectal anastomosis.

Methods

Cumulative incidence and clinicopathological characteristics of cancer in the rectal remnant were retrospectively investigated in 27 patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who had undergone ileorectal anastomosis.

Results

During the follow‐up period ranging from 3.0 to 35.0 years (median, 21.1 years), cancer in the rectal remnant developed in 10 patients. Cumulative risk of cancer in the rectal remnant 30 years after surgery was 57%. Five patients had metastases and three patients died of cancer in the rectal remnant after proctectomy. There was a trend towards a higher incidence of cancer in the rectal remnant in patients with small‐intestinal adenoma and congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium. Multivariate analysis revealed that the ocular lesion was an independent risk factor associated with cancer in the rectal remnant.

Conclusion

Subtotal colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis does not seem to be an appropriate prophylactic surgery in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis.
Association of dietary fat intake with the risk of hip fractures in an elderly Chinese population: A matched case–control study
Authors: Zeng Fang‐fang , Xie Hai‐li , Fan Fan , Xue Wen‐qiong , Wu Bao‐hua , Zhu Hui‐lian , Chen Yu‐ming
Published: December 2014

Aim

The aim of the present study was to examine the association between dietary fat intake and the risk of hip fractures in an elderly Chinese population.

Methods

A case–control study of 646 patients with newly diagnosed hip fractures and 646 controls, matched by age (±3 years) and sex, was carried out among elderly Chinese (55–80 years) in Guangdong, China. Their dietary fat intake was measured and calculated using a 79‐item food‐frequency questionnaire.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, a dose‐dependent increased risk of hip fractures was found to be associated with higher intakes of total fat, animal fat, saturated fatty acids and mono‐unsaturated fatty acids (P for trend < 0.005). The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for hip fractures from a comparison of extreme quartiles were 1.92 (1.26–2.92) for total fat, 2.60 (1.70–3.99) for animal fat, 1.95 (1.30–2.93) for saturated fatty acids and 2.22 (1.46–3.39) for animal mono‐unsaturated fatty acids, respectively. No significant association was observed for plant fat or polyunsaturated fatty acids (P for trend = 0.063 for plant fat and 0.174 for polyunsaturated fatty acids).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that higher consumption of total fat and animal fat rich in saturated fatty acids might increase the risk of hip fractures in elderly Chinese. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 1171–1178.
Association between waist circumference and self‐reported disability among Chinese adults aged 90 years and older
Authors: Yang Ming , Jiang Jiaojiao , Li Hui , Wu Hongmei , Dong Birong
Published: December 2014

Aim

To investigate the relationship between waist circumference (WC) and activities of daily living (ADL)/instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) disability among nonagenarians and centenarians.

Methods

We analyzed data obtained from a cross‐sectional study carried out in 870 older Chinese adults aged 90 years and older in Dujiangyan, a town in West China. The participants were divided into four groups according to their sex and WC quartile. The ADL and IADL disabilities were measured using the physical self‐maintenance scale and Lawton and Brody's IADL scale, respectively.

Results

We included 233 men and 505 women in this statistical analysis. The prevalence of ADL or IADL disability was 53.6% in men and 71.3% in women. Participants in the highest WC quartile group (WC ≥83.0 cm for men or WC ≥82.0 cm for women) had higher prevalence of ADL or IADL disability compared with those in the lowest WC quartile group (WC <73.0 cm for men or WC <70.5 cm for women). Adjusting for relevant confounders, the highest quartile group showed significantly increased odds ratios for either ADL (1.7 for men and 2.1 for women) or IADL disability (odds ratios 3.3 for men and 2.0 for women) compared with the lowest quartile group.

Conclusion

Among Chinese older adults aged 90 years and older, both men and women in the highest quartile of WC were at higher risk of ADL or IADL disability compared with those in the lowest quartile of WC. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 1249–1257.
Research in haemophilia B – approaching the request for high evidence levels in a rare disease
Authors: Berger K. , Schopohl D. , Hilger A. , Behr Gross M. –E. , Giangrande P. , Peyvandi F. , Seitz R. , Schramm W.
Published: December 2014

Payers in European countries request studies with high levels of evidence for decision making also for rare diseases like haemophilia B (HB). The objective of the study was to determine the status quo of current studies in HB regarding the overall level of evidence generated. The methods used for performing the study were systematic literature research in EMBASE and MEDLINE, search terms ‘HB’ and ‘factor IX’ (FIX). The inclusion criteria were journal articles (JA), conference abstracts (CA), English language, published between January 2009 and March 2013, studies only; screening of titles, abstracts, full texts subsequently. ClinicalTrials.gov search: unpublished registered trials (RT) concerning HB or FIX. The analysis was performed on research topic, sponsor, recruitment status and study design. Screening of 1639 hits yielded 31 JA describing 35 studies, and 62 CA. FIX was subject of 21 studies (60.0%) and 29 CA (46.8%). Seven studies focused on various aspects of HB, six on haemophilia studies with separate HB data. Screening of 173 hits from ClinicalTrials.gov yielded 42 RT. Overall, 32 RT (76.2%) related to FIX. Measurement of health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) was identified in none of these studies, four CA (6.5%), four RT (9.5%). Randomized study design was found in one study (2.9%), four RT (9.5%). Three studies (8.6%) and seven RT (16.7%) were prospective, observational and comparative. The majority of published clinical studies do not meet payers’ expectations for evidence. Therefore, clinical investigation concepts addressing randomization, outcomes research including HRQoL and comparison of therapy options should be discussed. Refined statistical methods and exploitation of complementary real‐life data sources may fill current evidence gaps concerning rare diseases.