bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of anti‐tarnishing and anti‐bacterial properties of silver by a waterborne polyurethane/silver nanocomposite coating
Authors: Kazemzadeh Seyed Mohamad , Hadavi Seyed Mohammad Mehdi , Vaezi Mohamad Reza , Esfandeh Masoud
Published: May 2017

Silver (Ag) objects tarnish when expose to the human sweat or atmospheres polluted by sulphide. In this work, a waterborne and transparent polyurethane/Ag (WPU/Ag) nanocomposite was synthesised and applied on the surface of the Ag sample with enhanced anti‐bacterial and also protection against the tarnishing in the corrosive solutions. Ag nanoparticle in the WPU/Ag was investigated by field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. To study the anti‐tarnishing behaviour of the Ag samples, the bare as well as the coated samples were immersed in corrosion solution of 0.35 wt% Na2 S which is a simulating solution of the human sweat. The corrosion products were then studied with X‐ray diffraction and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The bare Ag surface was covered completely by a black layer after 60 min immersion in the corrosion solution. However, the presence of either waterborne polyurethane (WPU) or WPU/Ag coatings was remained on the surface and protected the substrate from tarnishing. Anti‐bacterial properties of the samples were determined by disc diffusion and the minimum inhibitory concentration methods. Anti‐bacterial effect of the Ag coated by WPU/Ag was greater than the bare substrate, whereas the WPU coating lost the anti‐bacterial effect of the Ag substrate.
Nickel-Catalyzed N-Arylation Using N-Trimethylsilyl-carbazole
Authors: Minami Yasunori , Hiyama Tamejiro , Komiyama Takeshi , Shimizu Kenta , Uno Shu-ichi , Goto Osamu , Ikehira Hideyuki
Published: May 2017

Nickel-catalyzed N-arylation reaction of N-trimethylsilyl-carbazole using aryl bromides is found to proceed in the presence of sodium acetate, giving N-aryl-carbazoles in high yields. Under these conditions, N-trimethylsilyl-carbazole could react with aryl bromides selectively even in the presence of other N-trimethylsilyl-amines or N-H-amines. This arylation reaction was applied to the polymerization to provide a polycarbazole.
Guidelines for the Treatment of Head Injury in Adults
Authors: Rickels E. , Mauer U.M. , Sakowitz O.W. , Messing-Jünger M. , Engelhard K. , Schwenkreis P. , Linn J. , Schwerdtfeger K. , Firsching R.
Published: May 2017

The workshop of scientific medical faculties (Arbeitsgemeinschaft wissenschaftlicher medizinischer Fakultäten [AWMF]) of Germany has asked societies of specific medical disciplines to jointly publish guidelines on the treatment of diseases and injuries. On behalf of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Neurochirurgie, its commission on guidelines initiated an interdisciplinary approach to publish guidelines on the treatment of head injury in adults. These guidelines were published in German by the AWMF in late 2015. Because these guidelines have received widespread attention in Germany and became fundamental for research in head injuries, we have translated the German version into English to make it accessible to the international scientific community.
Dissemination eines Schulungsprogramms bei chronischem Rückenschmerz – Kostenanalyse der Programmimplementierung
Authors: Neusser Silke. , Ivancevic Sonja , Biermann Janine , Meng Karin , Faller Hermann , Wasem Jürgen , Neumann Anja
Published: May 2017

Ziel der Arbeit ist die Ermittlung der Kosten der alternativen Implementierungsstrategien „Train-the-Trainer-Seminar“ (TTT) und „schriftlicher Leitfaden“ (LF) einer standardisierten Rückenschulung in der medizinischen Rehabilitation.

Die Implementierungsstrategien wurden in 10 Rehabilitationskliniken zufällig zugewiesen und der Zeitaufwand mittels Erhebungsbögen erfasst. Zudem wurden die Kosten für Sachmittel sowie Reisekosten berücksichtigt.

Die klinikbezogenen Gesamtkosten der Implementierung liegen beim TTT-Seminar mit 4 582 € um ein Drittel (35%) höher als die Gesamtkosten der LF-Strategie.

Die höheren Kosten der Implementierung über ein TTT-Seminar waren insbesondere auf den höheren personellen Ressourcenverbrauch durch das zeitintensive Seminar zurückzuführen. Für die LF-Gruppe zeigt sich allerdings ein wesentlich höherer Kostenanteil für die Nachbereitung der Programminhalte (23,5%).
Dietary Isoflavone-Dependent and Estradiol Replacement Effects on Body Weight in the Ovariectomized (OVX) Rat
Authors: Russell Ashley , Grimes Jamie , Cruthirds Danette , Westerfield Joanna , Wooten Lawren , Keil Margaret , Weiser Michael , Landauer Michael , Handa Robert , Wu T. , Larco Darwin
Published: May 2017

17β-Estradiol is known to regulate energy metabolism and body weight. Ovariectomy results in body weight gain while estradiol administration results in a reversal of weight gain. Isoflavones, found in rodent chow, can mimic estrogenic effects making it crucial to understand the role of these compounds on metabolic regulation. The goal of this study is to examine the effect of dietary isoflavones on body weight regulation in the ovariectomized rat. This study will examine how dietary isoflavones can interact with estradiol treatment to affect body weight. Consistent with previous findings, animals fed an isoflavone-rich diet had decreased body weight (p<0.05), abdominal fat (p<0.05), and serum leptin levels (p<0.05) compared to animals fed an isoflavone-free diet. Estradiol replacement resulted in decreased body weight (p<0.05), abdominal fat (p<0.05), and serum leptin (p<0.05). Current literature suggests the involvement of cytokines in the inflammatory response of body weight gain. We screened a host of cytokines and chemokines that may be altered by dietary isoflavones or estradiol replacement. Serum cytokine analysis revealed significant (p<0.05) diet-dependent increases in inflammatory cytokines (keratinocyte-derived chemokine). The isoflavone-free diet in OVX rats resulted in the regulation of the following cytokines and chemokines: interleukin-10, interleukin-18, serum regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (p<0.05). Overall, these results reveal that estradiol treatment can have differential effects on energy metabolism and body weight regulation depending on the presence of isoflavones in rodent chow.
Note: Photoluminescence measurement system for multi-junction solar cells
Authors: Trespidi F. , Malchiodi A. , Farina F.
Published: May 2017

We describe a photoluminescence spectroscopy system developed for studying phenomena of optical coupling in multiple-junction solar cells and processed/unprocessed wafers, under the high solar concentration levels typical of HCPV (High Concentration PhotoVoltaic) systems. The instrument operates at room temperature over two spectral ranges: 475 nm–1100 nm and 950 nm–1650 nm. Power densities exceeding 10 000 suns can be obtained on the sample. The system can host up to four compact focusable solid state laser sources, presently only three are mounted and operated at 450 nm, 520 nm, and 785 nm; they provide overlapped beams on the sample surface and can shine simultaneously the sample to study possible mutual interaction between the different junctions.
Communication: Heterogeneous water dynamics on a clathrate hydrate lattice detected by multidimensional oxygen nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Adjei-Acheamfour Mischa , Storek Michael , Böhmer Roland
Published: May 2017

Previous deuteron nuclear magnetic resonance studies revealed conflicting evidence regarding the possible motional heterogeneity of the water dynamics on the hydrate lattice of an ice-like crystal. Using oxygen-17 nuclei as a sensitive quadrupolar probe, the reorientational two-time correlation function displays a clear nonexponentiality. To check whether this dispersive behavior is a consequence of dynamic heterogeneity or rather of an intrinsic nonexponentiality, a multidimensional, four-time magnetic resonance experiment was devised that is generally applicable to strongly quadrupolarly perturbed half-integer nuclei such as oxygen-17. Measurements of an appropriate four-time function demonstrate that it is possible to select a subensemble of slow water molecules. Its mean time scale is compared to theoretical predictions and evidence for significant motional heterogeneity is found.
Giant perpendicular exchange bias with antiferromagnetic MnN
Authors: Zilske P. , Graulich D. , Dunz M. , Meinert M.
Published: May 2017

We investigated an out-of-plane exchange bias system that is based on the antiferromagnet MnN. Polycrystalline, highly textured film stacks of Ta/MnN/CoFeB/MgO/Ta were grown on SiOx by (reactive) magnetron sputtering and studied by x-ray diffraction and Kerr magnetometry. Nontrivial modifications of the exchange bias and the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy were observed as functions of both film thicknesses and field cooling temperatures. In optimized film stacks, a giant perpendicular exchange bias of 3600 Oe and a coercive field of 350 Oe were observed at room temperature. The effective interfacial exchange energy is estimated to be Jeff = 0.24 mJ/m2 and the effective uniaxial anisotropy constant of the antiferromagnet is Keff = 24 kJ/m3. The maximum effective perpendicular anisotropy field of the CoFeB layer is Hani = 3400 Oe. These values are larger than any previously reported values. These results possibly open a route to magnetically stable, exchange biased perpendicularly magnetized spin valves.
P-type conduction in two-dimensional MoS2 via oxygen incorporation
Authors: Neal Adam T. , Pachter Ruth , Mou Shin
Published: May 2017

The effects of oxygen incorporation on the electronic transport properties of two-dimensional (2D) MoS2 have been studied via temperature dependent and gate voltage dependent transport measurements of physical vapor deposited 2D MoS2. Gated micro-van der Pauw cross devices were fabricated from the MoS2 film for transport measurements. Field-effect measurements indicate that incorporated oxygen acts as a p-type dopant for MoS2. The combination of X-ray photoemission spectroscopy surface analysis and Raman measurements of the film indicates that acceptor states resulting from MoSxO3-x inclusions in the MoS2 film are the origin of the p-type doping. Temperature dependent van der Pauw conductivity measurements indicate an acceptor energy of 214 meV above the valence band edge for the acceptor state.
Large flexoelectricity in Al2O3-doped Ba(Ti0.85Sn0.15)O3 ceramics
Authors: Shu Longlong , Wan Meiqian , Wang Zhiguo , Wang Li , Lei Shuijin , Wang Tong , Huang Wenbin , Zhou Naigen , Wang Yu
Published: May 2017

We reported an enhanced flexoelectricity in Al2O3-doped Ba(Ti0.85Sn0.15)O3 (BTS) ceramics. The transverse flexoelectric coefficient of the 0.5 wt. % Al2O3-doped BTS ceramic was measured to be 40.5 μC/m at 23 °C, which is almost 2 times larger than that of pure BTS. Above Curie temperature, the temperature dependence of the flexoelectric coefficients in the 0.5 wt. % Al2O3-doped ceramic was found much more sensitive compared with that of the pure BTS ceramic. It is concluded that the enhanced flexoelectricity is possibly related to inner microstrains or the non-crystalline polar phases.
High reverse breakdown voltage Schottky rectifiers without edge termination on Ga2O3
Authors: Yang Jiancheng , Ahn Shihyun , Ren F. , Pearton S. J. , Jang Soohwan , Kim Jihyun , Kuramata A.
Published: May 2017

Vertical geometry Ni/Au-β-Ga2O3 Schottky rectifiers were fabricated on Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy layers on conducting bulk substrates, and the rectifying forward and reverse current-voltage characteristics were measured at temperatures in the range of 25–100 °C. The reverse breakdown voltage (VBR) of these β-Ga2O3 rectifiers without edge termination was a function of the diode diameter, being in the range of 920–1016 V (average value from 25 diodes was 975 ± 40 V, with 10 of the diodes over 1 kV) for diameters of 105 μm and consistently 810 V (810 ± 3 V for 22 diodes) for a diameter of 210 μm. The Schottky barrier height decreased from 1.1 at 25 °C to 0.94 at 100 °C, while the ideality factor increased from 1.08 to 1.28 over the same range. The figure-of-merit (VBR2/Ron), where Ron is the on-state resistance (∼6.7 mΩ cm2), was approximately 154.07 MW·cm−2 for the 105 μm diameter diodes. The reverse recovery time was 26 ns for switching from +5 V to −5 V. These results represent another impressive advance in the quality of bulk and epitaxial β-Ga2O3.
Acoustic holography based on composite metasurface with decoupled modulation of phase and amplitude
Authors: Tian Ye , Wei Qi , Cheng Ying , Liu Xiaojun
Published: May 2017

Acoustic holography has extensive possibilities in acoustic sensing, acoustic illusion, contactless particle manipulation, and medical imaging. Based on coating unit cells and perforated panels, an acoustic composite metasurface is constructed with a decoupled modulation of phase and amplitude, which has been used to design acoustic holography. This proposal not only has lower complexity than conventional acoustic holography of active arrays due to the avoidance of complex structures and circuits but also provides more flexibility than acoustic holography based on the acoustic metasurface with phase-only modulation benefitting from the efficient decoupled modulation of phase and amplitude. We have further demonstrated three acoustic holographic applications, such as multi-directional transmission, multi-focal focusing, and holographic imaging. Due to the low complexity and the great flexibility, this proposal has potential to achieve the high-quality holograms with high information content, fine resolution, and large scale.
Chemical modification with orthophosphoric acid enhances surface-charge stability on polypropylene electrets
Authors: Wang Jingwen , Rychkov Dmitry , Gerhard Reimund
Published: May 2017

The low surface-charge stability of polypropylene (PP) frequently limits its application as an electret material. In this paper, we demonstrate how the treatment of PP-film surfaces with orthophosphoric acid (H3PO4) enhances their charge stability. To discriminate between the effects of chemical modification and thermal treatment, as-received and annealed PP films are used as reference samples. The electret properties of treated and non-treated PP films are characterized with thermally stimulated discharge (TSD) and isothermal surface-potential decay (ISPD) experiments, from which considerable improvement in thermal and temporal charge stability is observed for samples modified with H3PO4. The half-value temperature (T1∕2) observed on TSD curves of chemically treated PP increases to 131 and 145 °C for positive and negative charges, respectively. The enhancement might be attributed to the phosphoric compounds detected on the H3PO4-modified surfaces via attenuated-total-reflection infrared spectroscopy. Deeper surface traps formed at the “foreign” phosphorus-containing structures are able to capture the charges over longer time periods and at higher temperatures, thus leading to significant improvements in the temporal and thermal surface-charge stabilities of PP electrets.
Direct depth distribution measurement of deuterium in bulk tungsten exposed to high-flux plasma
Authors: Taylor C. N. , Shimada M.
Published: May 2017

Understanding tritium retention and permeation in plasma-facing components is critical for fusion safety and fuel cycle control. Glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GD-OES) is shown to be an effective tool to reveal the depth profile of deuterium in tungsten. Results confirm the detection of deuterium. A ∼46 μm depth profile revealed that the deuterium content decreased precipitously in the first 7 μm, and detectable amounts were observed to depths in excess of 20 μm. The large probing depth of GD-OES (up to 100s of μm) enables studies not previously accessible to the more conventional techniques for investigating deuterium retention. Of particular applicability is the use of GD-OES to measure the depth profile for experiments where high deuterium concentration in the bulk material is expected: deuterium retention in neutron irradiated materials, and ultra-high deuterium fluences in burning plasma environment.
Two Rhodamine-based Turn on Chemosensors with High Sensitivity, Selectivity, and Naked-Eye Detection for Hg2+
Authors: Zhou Yan , Yan Li-qiang , Kong Zhi-neng , Du Wen-qi , Wu Bao-ying , Qi Zheng-jian
Published: May 2017

Two novel rhodamine-based fluorescence enhanced molecular probes (RA1 and RA2) were synthesized, which were both designed as comparative fluoroionophore and chromophore for the optical detection of Hg2+. The recognizing behaviors were investigated both experimentally and computationally. They exhibited high selectivity and sensitivity for Hg2+ over other commonly coexistent metal ions in CH3CN/H2O (1:1, V/V) solution. Test shows that hydroxy benzene of rich electron was beneficial to the chelate of Hg2+ with sensors. The detection limit was measured to be at least 0.14 µmol/L. After addition of Hg2+, the color changed from colourless to pink, which was easily detected by the naked eye in both solution and hydrogel sensor.
Can management practices provide greenhouse gas abatement in grain farms in New South Wales, Australia?
Authors: Palmer Jeda , Thorburn Peter J. , Meier Elizabeth A. , Biggs Jody S. , Whelan Brett , Singh Kanika , Eyre David N.
Published: May 2017

Greenhouse gas abatement in the agricultural cropping industry can be achieved by employing management practices that sequester soil carbon (C) or minimise nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from soils. However, C sequestration stimulates N2O emissions, making the net greenhouse-gas abatement potential of management practices difficult to predict. We studied land-management practices that have potential to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions by increasing soil C storage and/or decreasing soil N2O emissions for a diverse range of broadacre grain cropping sites in New South Wales. Carbon sequestration and N2O emissions were simulated with the Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM) for a baseline crop-management scenario and alternative scenarios representing management practices for greenhouse gas abatement, for 15 rainfed or irrigated sites. The global warming potential of the scenarios was quantified at 25 and 100 years after commencement of the alternative practices. Soil C and N2O emissions were predicted to increase with the use of practices that increased organic matter additions to the soil (e.g. adding a summer crop to the rotation). However, in only a few cases did the increase in soil C storage counter the N2O emissions sufficiently to provide net greenhouse gas abatement. For rainfed sites, inclusion of a summer crop and/or a pasture in the rotation was predicted to provide greenhouse gas abatement after 25 years, whereas after 100 years, only practices that included a summer crop provided abatement for some sites. For irrigated sites after 25 years, practices that reduced N fertiliser rate while retaining stubble were predicted to provide small abatement, and practices that included a summer crop provided abatement for some sites. After 100 years, practices likely to provide abatement included those that reduced N2O emissions, such as reducing N fertiliser rate. These findings suggest that a few management practices are likely to abate greenhouse gas emissions across New South Wales grain production sites and that these practices differ for irrigated and rainfed sites.
Framing the revolution: the role of social media in Ukraine's Euromaidan movement
Authors: Surzhko-Harned Lena , Zahuranec Andrew J.
Published: May 2017

The role of social media as a tool of mobilization, communication, and organization of social movements has been well documented since the Arab Spring. The public information posted on social media sites also presents researchers with a unique tool to study protests movements from within. The proposed study utilizes the theoretical foundation of issue framing literature and examines the social media framing of the Ukrainian Euromaidan protest movement. The original dataset traces the activities of the users on the social media site Facebook from 21 November 2013 to February 2014. While foreign media sources portrayed the Ukrainian crisis as a geopolitical struggle, the results of our analysis show that the participants of the protest conceptualized their movement in terms of domestic issues and an anti-regime revolution rather than a geopolitical crossroad between the EU and Russia. This study contributes to our understanding of the role social media sites play in the activities of protest movements, such as Euromaidan. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of social media as a tool of issue framing on par with the traditional sources of framing such as mass media and political elites.
From Satirical Piece to Commercial Product: The Mid-Victorian Opera Burlesque and its Bourgeois Audience
Authors: Cormac Joanne
Published: May 2017

Current studies of burlesque position it as a subversive genre that questioned cultural and social hierarchies and spoke to diverse audiences. Central to this interpretation are burlesque's juxtapositions of high and low culture, particularly popular and operatic music. This article problematizes this view, proposing that mid-Victorian burlesques lost their satirical bite. Demonstrating little concern for the tastes or interests of the poorer or the most elite members of the audience, they specifically targeted the bourgeoisie. The article places three mid-Victorian burlesques in the wider context of the commercial development of the West End following the 1851 Great Exhibition. It proposes that this broader context, and not the genre's perceived social role, provides the key to understanding the impulses driving the musical choices. It argues that juxtapositions of ‘high’ and ‘low’ music were far from subversive; rather they were included for commercial reasons, offering variety – but variety within strict bourgeois limits.
The interaction of psychological and physiological homeostatic drives and role of general control principles in the regulation of physiological systems, exercise and the fatigue process – The Integrative Governor theory
Authors: St Clair Gibson A. , Swart J. , Tucker R.
Published: May 2017

Either central (brain) or peripheral (body physiological system) control mechanisms, or a combination of these, have been championed in the last few decades in the field of Exercise Sciences as how physiological activity and fatigue processes are regulated. In this review, we suggest that the concept of ‘central’ or ‘peripheral’ mechanisms are both artificial constructs that have ‘straight‐jacketed’ research in the field, and rather that competition between psychological and physiological homeostatic drives is central to the regulation of both, and that governing principles, rather than distinct physical processes, underpin all physical system and exercise regulation. As part of the Integrative Governor theory we develop in this review, we suggest that both psychological and physiological drives and requirements are underpinned by homeostatic principles, and that regulation of the relative activity of each is by dynamic negative feedback activity, as the fundamental general operational controller. Because of this competitive, dynamic interplay, we propose that the activity in all systems will oscillate, that these oscillations create information, and comparison of this oscillatory information with either prior information, current activity, or activity templates create efferent responses that change the activity in the different systems in a similarly dynamic manner. Changes in a particular system are always the result of perturbations occurring outside the system itself, the behavioural causative ‘history’ of this external activity will be evident in the pattern of the oscillations, and awareness of change occurs as a result of unexpected rather than planned change in physiological activity or psychological state.
Rab2 promotes autophagic and endocytic lysosomal degradation
Authors: Lőrincz Péter , Tóth Sarolta , Benkő Péter , Lakatos Zsolt , Boda Attila , Glatz Gábor , Zobel Martina , Bisi Sara , Hegedűs Krisztina , Takáts Szabolcs , Scita Giorgio , Juhász Gábor
Published: May 2017

Rab7 promotes fusion of autophagosomes and late endosomes with lysosomes in yeast and metazoan cells, acting together with its effector, the tethering complex HOPS. Here we show that another small GTPase, Rab2, is also required for autophagosome and endosome maturation and proper lysosome function in Drosophila melanogaster. We demonstrate that Rab2 binds to HOPS, and that its active, GTP-locked form associates with autolysosomes. Importantly, expression of active Rab2 promotes autolysosomal fusions unlike that of GTP-locked Rab7, suggesting that its amount is normally rate limiting. We also demonstrate that RAB2A is required for autophagosome clearance in human breast cancer cells. In conclusion, we identify Rab2 as a key factor for autophagic and endocytic cargo delivery to and degradation in lysosomes.
Salmon lice infestations on sea trout predicts infestations on migrating salmon post-smolts
Authors: Vollset Knut Wiik , Halttunen Elina , Finstad Bengt , Karlsen Ørjan , Bjørn Pål Arne , Dohoo Ian
Published: May 2017

Impacts of sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis or Caligus spp.) on wild salmonids is currently one of the most important issues facing management of fish farms in salmon producing countries in the northern hemisphere. Surveillance of sea lice on wild Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) is often hampered by the ability to catch enough migrating post-smolts. Therefore, sea lice abundance on anadromous trout (Salmo trutta) is often used to infer sea lice abundance on migrating salmon post-smolt. However, the assumption that there is a relationship between the abundance of lice on salmon and trout has never been tested. Here we use a dataset of sea lice on salmon post-smolt and sea trout that have been caught simultaneously in trawl hauls, to evaluate the correlation in abundance of sea lice between the two species using various statistical models. We demonstrate that trout generally has higher abundances of sea lice than salmon. Average lice per gram fish on sea trout (log transformed) predicted the abundance of lice on salmon best. Negative binomial models of lice counts were preferable to using trout lice counts as direct estimates of salmon lice abundance, and they had better predictive ability than logit models of high (vs. low) lice counts. Including the size of the salmon increased the predictive ability of the model, but these data are not generally available. The effect of salmon weight may have been a direct effect of body size, or an indirect effect of time spent in marine waters. Finally, we predict lower salmon lice counts on migrating salmon with our selected binomial model than with the current method of using trout lice counts as a direct estimator on salmon lice counts, and demonstrate that management advice would change considerably depending on the chosen method.
An ion beam–induced Arabidopsis mutant with marked chromosomal rearrangement
Authors: Sakamoto Ayako N , Lan Vo Thi Thuong , Fujimoto Satoru , Matsunaga Sachihiro , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: May 2017

Ion beams have been used as an effective tool in mutation breeding for the creation of crops with novel characteristics. Recent analyses have revealed that ion beams induce large chromosomal alterations, in addition to small mutations comprising base changes or frameshifts. In an effort to understand the potential capability of ion beams, we analyzed an Arabidopsis mutant possessing an abnormal genetic trait. The Arabidopsis mutant uvh3-2 is hypersensitive to UVB radiation when photoreactivation is unavailable. uvh3-2 plants grow normally and produce seeds by self-pollination. SSLP and CAPS analyses of F2 plants showed abnormal recombination frequency on chromosomes 2 and 3. PCR-based analysis and sequencing revealed that one-third of chromosome 3 was translocated to chromosome 2 in uvh3-2. FISH analysis using a 180 bp centromeric repeat and 45S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) as probes showed that the 45S rDNA signal was positioned away from that of the 180 bp centromeric repeat in uvh3-2, suggesting the insertion of a large chromosome fragment into the chromosome with 45S rDNA clusters. F1 plants derived from a cross between uvh3-2 and wild-type showed reduced fertility. PCR-based analysis of F2 plants suggested that reproductive cells carrying normal chromosome 2 and uvh3-2–derived chromosome 3 are unable to survive and therefore produce zygote. These results showed that ion beams could induce marked genomic alterations, and could possibly lead to the generation of novel plant species and crop strains.
Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid is Associated With an Increased Risk of Post-Cesarean Surgical Site Infection [2OP]
Authors: Snyder Andrea , Rood Kara M. , Klebanoff Mark
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Surgical site infection (SSI) following a cesarean delivery is a common obstetrical problem with significant impact on maternal health. Several risk factors for SSI have been identified, such as chorioamnionitis and obesity. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) has been shown to increase the risk for peripartum infection; however, its impact on postpartum SSI is unclear. Here, we look at the correlation between MSAF and SSI post cesarean delivery.

METHODS:

We performed a secondary analysis using data from Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Network (MFMU) Cesarean Registry of all women attempting labor or induction of labor with singleton pregnancies that ultimately had a cesarean section. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to control for confounders.

RESULTS:

Of the singleton pregnancies that ultimately had a cesarean delivery after a trial of labor, 5,883 had MSAF. Those with MSAF had a significantly increased incidence of surgical site infection (SSI) (11.5% vs 8.9%, P < .001). Even when controlling for confounding factors, including IUPC usage, race, smoking, diabetes, preeclampsia, PPROM, chorioamnionitis, prenatal care, labor length, rupture length, gestational age, BMI and ASA class, MSAF was still associated with SSI (OR 1.248 CI 1.118–1.393, P < .001).

CONCLUSION:

MSAF is associated with an increased risk of SSI following cesarean delivery. Further studies should be done to determine if patients with MSAF would benefit from closer monitoring of their wound postpartum to decrease the risk of severe morbidity associated with SSI.
Telemedicine to Improve Maternal Safety: A Statewide Survey of Hospitals in an Obstetric Hemorrhage Collaboration [5OP]
Authors: Einerson Brett D. , Baksh Laurie , Fisher Janet , Clark Erin A.S.
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Multidisciplinary obstetric hemorrhage patient safety bundles can improve response to hemorrhage and reduce maternal morbidity. Broad dissemination and implementation of these bundles, across institutions and geographic regions, has remained challenging. We implemented a novel, statewide, telemedicine-based education program and evaluated programmatic effect on self-assessed preparedness, prevention, response, and reporting domains within the obstetric hemorrhage patient safety bundle.

METHODS:

All Utah hospitals were invited to participate in the Obstetric Hemorrhage Collaborative, an evidence-based educational program aimed at facilitating implementation of the obstetric hemorrhage bundle. The program involved two in-person training meetings and twice-monthly teleconferencing with expert mentorship over 6 months. A statewide self-assessment survey of 38 bundle elements was administered before initiation of the project and after completion. Modified Likert scales were used to describe participant responses. Means and proportions were compared before and after the training.

RESULTS:

Twenty-seven (61%) of Utah’s obstetric hospitals, representing every hospital system in the state completed the needs-assessment survey. Fifteen (34%) participated in the Obstetric Hemorrhage Collaborative. Hospitals reported implementation, or progress toward implementation, of significantly more elements of the bundle after the educational program compared to before (33.3 vs 19.0, p < 0.001). Hospitals reported increased implementation of elements in all four bundle domains. All participants (100%) reported that teleconferencing sessions were “very helpful,” and 14 (93%) were “very satisfied” with the Collaborative.

CONCLUSION:

Utah hospitals report improved implementation of an obstetric hemorrhage bundle as result of a novel educational program using telemedicine. This represents a potentially cost-effective strategy to improve widespread adoption of obstetric hemorrhage bundles.
Readability of Online Patient Educational Materials Provided by Major Gynecological Societies [16OP]
Authors: Nwachuku Nneoma , Carson TreChelle , Fahimuddin Fatimah , Samuel Memorie , Mitchell Rochanda , McDonald Vanessa
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Major medical societies remain a reliable and accessible resource for online patient educational materials. While it is advised that patient educational materials remain at or below sixth grade reading level, the readability of most online educational content provided by such societies often exceeds this recommendation. Gynecological societies play an important role in providing online health information to women. However, a comprehensive review of non-obstetric patient education materials has not yet been undertaken. The purpose of this study is to determine whether patient educational materials provided by major American gynecological societies adhere to current patient readability recommendations.

METHODS:

Three hundred and five non-obstetric articles from the online patient education sections of six gynecological societies were reviewed. Patient readability was analyzed using the Flesch-Kincaid reading scale and a corresponding grade level was assigned.

RESULTS:

The average grade level of reviewed patient educational material was 11.3 ±3.0. When analyzed by category, patient material about Contraception had the lowest mean grade level (7.9±4.0), while material on Surgical Treatment had the highest mean grade level (13.5±4.0). Only one of the gynecological societies presented any material that was at or below the recommended sixth grade reading level.

CONCLUSION:

Online patient educational material provided by major gynecological societies rarely adhere to currently readability guidelines. This may prove a significant barrier to patients achieving health literacy. While major gynecological societies excel at providing current, evidence-based material to a wider population, efforts must be placed on ensuring that the average patient can understand the message conveyed.
Genetic Testing Costs and Compliance With Clinical Best Practices [19OP]
Authors: Ruzzo Kathleen , Sale Taylor J. , Willis Mary J. , Harding Aaron J. , Lutgendorf Monica A.
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

The rapid expansion of genetic testing has resulted in increased costs and utilization. Previous studies have shown a financial benefit to review of genetic testing by genetic counselors. We sought to determine the costs of genetic testing and compliance with published guidelines and clinical best practices at our institution.

METHODS:

This is an approved quality improvement project. We identified the charts associated with the genetic test billing codes for common genetic tests sent through LabCorp (cystic fibrosis, BRCA, factor V Leiden, prothrombin, alpha-thalassemia, hemochromatosis, and cell free DNA). We reviewed charts retrospectively to assess the compliance with published clinical practice guidelines identified on Gene Reviews. Tests were classified as: appropriate, mis-ordered/not indicated, mis-ordered/false reassurance, and mis-ordered/inadequate. Cost analysis was performed for recommended test changes.

RESULTS:

We reviewed 114 charts over the 3 month period. Forty four (38.6%) of the tests were mis-ordered based on published clinical practice guidelines: 24 (21%) were mis-ordered/not indicated, 8 (7%) were mis-ordered/false reassurance, and 12 (10.5%) were mis-ordered/inadequate. Costs of ordered testing ($75,177.41) were compared to recommended testing after review ($54,264.83), with a total cost savings of $20,912.58.

CONCLUSION:

In clinical practice, over 1/3 of genetic tests reviewed were mis-ordered As these tests are a small fraction of all genetic tests at our institution, future studies should broaden the scope of testing evaluated to understand the magnitude of this problem and potential cost savings. Genetic counselor review and/or involvement in genetic test ordering can decrease inappropriate healthcare expenditures and improve patient care.
Missed Opportunities to Identify Cardiovascular Disease in Women With Prior Preeclampsia [22OP]
Authors: Lewnard Irene , Brener Alina , Jones Cresta , Mackinnon Jennifer , Wenzlaff Miranda
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one killer of American women. Since 2011, the American Heart Association has recognized that women with prior preeclampsia have an increased risk for CVD equal to diabetics and smokers, and since 2013 the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (the College) has recommended early screening for these patients. There are currently no guidelines in the internal medicine literature for CVD screening in women with prior preeclampsia, leading to a provider knowledge gap and missed opportunities to screen high risk women.

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective chart review of 89 women ages 18 to 48 with at least one prior delivery who presented for a well-woman visit after 2013, when the College guidelines were released. We assessed documentation of preeclampsia versus traditional risk factors for CVD (smoking, diabetes, and hypertension) and whether CVD screening was performed according to College guidelines.

RESULTS:

21/89 women were asked about preeclampsia while 88/89 were asked about diabetes or smoking and 89/89 were asked about hypertension. Our data was analyzed using a test of two proportions to compare how often providers asked about preeclampsia compared to smoking, diabetes, and hypertension. The p value was statistically significant at 0.0002 in each individual comparison group.

CONCLUSION:

We identified a knowledge gap at our academic institution among internal medicine providers regarding preeclampsia as a major risk factor for CVD. We see this as an opportunity to improve provider education and ensure continuum of obstetrical to primary care, preventing CVD in high risk women.
Fetal Damage in Congenital Zika Virus Infection: Cohort Study [3P]
Authors: Suely de Oliveira Melo Adriana , Fonseca Schamber Reis Bruno Luiz , Azevedo Girlene Souza , de Sales Tavares Jousilene , Loureiro Marinho Jacqueline Ramos , Amorim Melania M.
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Brazil recently, mainly the Brazilian Northeast, was affected by an epidemic of Zika virus. This epidemic was accompanied by an increase in the birth of infants with microcephaly. In addition to microcephaly other injuries were observed.

METHODS:

This is a preliminary analysis of a cohort study involving 500 pregnant women with symptoms suggestive of Zika. The women came to the service during the symptoms and blood and urine were collected for RT-PCR. They were subjected to ultrasonography at 24 and 32 weeks. Pregnant women with positive PCR for Zika done neurosonography, amniocentesis and Magnetic resonance.

RESULTS:

The findings were then initially classified into three patterns whose findings are repeated in degrees more or less severe: 1 - the classic pattern of microcephaly, where we observe a reduction in the size of the brain and head, with coarse calcifications, however the structure is more conserved, 2 - the destructive pattern where basic structures not be identified and 3 - a third pattern, with more discrete signals as isolated calcifications, slight alterations in neuronal migration pattern or other extracranial changes. Until this date the most cases showed the pattern I (70%). Most Class II cases died. The pattern III is still rare, with a better prognosis and usually occurs when the infection occurs in later periods of pregnancy.

CONCLUSION:

Because it is a new disease, there are still more questions than answers and among them, what are the factors that leads to different aggressiveness patterns and other damage we can find.
Sonographic Findings in Congenital Zika Virus Infection: Cohort Study [4P]
Authors: Suely de Oliveira Melo Adriana , Carneiro Juliana Garcia , de Oliveira Melo Fabiana , Bianka de Souza Manhães Cláudia , Silva Mariana Balbino , Amorim Melania M.
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

The Congenital Zika Virus Infection was first observed in the Northeast of Brazil, being confirmed by amniocentesis in November 2015. From the first findings characterized by microcephaly, ventriculomegaly, arthrogryposis and injuries of posterior fossa, other findings were being identified.

METHODS:

A prospective cohort study that followed 500 pregnant women with symptoms suggestive of ZikV. The women collected blood and urine to search ZikV by RT-PCR and they were submitted to ultrasound and came to the service. We also evaluated ultrasound performed in other services. The ultrasounds were performed in Samsung WS80 Elite.

RESULTS:

Among the 500 pregnant women evaluated, 96 showed positive PCR for Zika and 32 had some brain damage. The mean gestational age of the first finding was 27 weeks, with a minimum age of 14 weeks. The most common early finding was mild ventriculomegaly, followed by calcifications and changes of posterior fossa. Arthrogryposis was observed in severe cases. The mean age at diagnosis of microcephaly, when present, was 28 weeks. The average age at birth was 39 weeks, ranging from 29 to 42 weeks. The average head circumference was 30 cm ranging from 23 to 36 cm and the mean birth weight was 2775 grams, ranging between 1060 and 3770 grams.

CONCLUSION:

Despite microcephaly is the most frequent sign of the syndrome of congenital Zika, it is generally not the first sign and is not always present.
Advanced Ultrasound Technology and Its Application to Gynecologic Practice [11P]
Authors: Fernandez Carlos , Miller Daniel , Levine Elliot , Locher Stephen
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

In 2015, the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology published an opinion supporting ultrasound as the first-line imaging choice in obstetrics and gynecology. Recent advances in 3D gynecologic ultrasound, which includes volumetric calculation and Power Doppler Angiography (PDA) have expanded the practical functionality and diagnostic ability for complex gynecologic conditions. The authors seek to demonstrate this with a case series, comparing the imaging results and the clinical value obtained.

METHODS:

The described case series includes: 1) Case of missing/broken/embedded IUD complication: located and characterized with 3D gynecologic ultrasound; 2) Case of deeply invasive endometriosis: characterized with 3D gynecologic ultrasound; 3) Improved mapping of uterine fibroids for definitive surgical treatment: characterized by 3D gynecologic ultrasound; 4) Case of endometrial cancerous polyp in a 28 year old, identified with 3D, PDA, volumetric calculation, histogram and Vascularity Index (VI); 5) Case of endometrial carcinoma after negative biopsies: diagnosed via 3D gynecologic ultrasound; 6) Case of an intramural ectopic pregnancy: diagnosed and managed with 3D, PDA, volumetric calculation, histogram and VI.

RESULTS:

Our case series demonstrates the substantial clinical benefit this modality offers over traditional 2D ultrasound, as well as CT and MRI. Each case shows a unique application of advanced ultrasound technique in gynecologic practice.

CONCLUSION:

Advances in gynecologic ultrasound are underutilized in current practice. Gynecologists should be aware of the availability and benefits that can result from the use of these advances.
Cervical Index: A Novel Sonographic Parameter to Predict Preterm Labor [12P]
Authors: Petrikovsky Boris , Terrani Michael , Sichinava Lali
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Midtrimester transvaginal cervical length assessment is widely used to identify patients at risk for preterm labor with variable success. We propose a new ultrasound marker — cervical index (CI) a ratio of cervical length and width, and report its correlation with preterm birth (PTB).

METHODS:

This was a retrospective cohort study of singleton gestations. Demographic data and pregnancy outcomes were collected. Transvaginal ultrasound was performed during routine 2nd trimester ultrasound (16-24 weeks). Cervical indexes were calculated in each case. ROC curves were developed to determine an optimal cutoff of UCA for prediction of PTB < 34 weeks and < 37 weeks. Primary outcome was prediction of PTB by CI. Data were evaluated using χ2 or Fishers Exact test with p < 0.05 as significant. A total of 408 women met inclusion criteria. The rate of PTB in this cohort was 8.1% for delivery < 37 weeks, and 6.4% for < 34 weeks.

RESULTS:

CI of less than 1 is significantly associated with PTB with a sensitivity of 82% (p < 0.005) RR 4, specificity 50%, PPV 18%, NPV 98%. A CI between 1 and 2 predicted PTB with a sensitivity of 80% (p < 0.005) RR 7.2, specificity 58%, PPV 14%, NPV 98%.

CONCLUSION:

CI of less than 1 and between 1 and 2 detected during the 2nd trimester is associated with an increased risk for PTB < 37 and < 34 weeks, respectively. Our data suggest that CI may be a useful, novel ultrasound marker predictive of PTB.
Is Abdominal Circumference Associated With Poor Outcomes in Fetuses With Estimated Fetal Weights Between 10-20th%? [17P]
Authors: Ortega Marcus V. , Leung Katherine , Delpapa Ellen , Moore Simas Tiffany A. , Leftwich Heidi
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION:

Fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are at increased risk for poor perinatal outcomes. Fetuses with estimated weights (EFW) between 10-20th percentile also have increased risk for poor outcomes. Abdominal circumference (AC) has been shown to have high specificity and sensitivity for IUGR. We aim to determine whether AC is associated with increased risk for poor outcomes with EFW between 10-20th percentile.

METHODS:

Retrospective cohort study assessing pregnancies with ultrasound EFW between 10-20th% between 2005 and 2016. AC, maternal demographics and perinatal outcomes were documented and compared. P less than .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

Of 285 patients with EFW 10-20th%, 56 (20%) had follow up ultrasounds. Of these, 59% had evidence of IUGR on follow up fetal growth surveillance and over 60% were documented as small for gestational age (SGA) at birth, regardless of AC. Fetuses with AC on ultrasound less than 10th% showed no increased risk of poor perinatal outcomes including 5 minute Apgar less than 7, NICU admission, SGA or composite outcome, nor did those with AC less than the 5th% in unadjusted or adjusted analyses.

CONCLUSION:

While our cohort with EFW 10-20th% has a high rate of IUGR on follow up ultrasound and SGA at birth, AC does not appear to be associated with other investigated poor perinatal outcomes. Given the high incidence of IUGR and SGA, follow-up ultrasounds could be considered if delivery not otherwise indicated. Further investigation identifying those at highest risk is warranted.