bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of carotid atherosclerotic plaque surface characteristics utilizing simultaneous noncontrast angiography and intraplaque hemorrhage (SNAP) technique
Authors: Chen Shuo , Zhao Huilin , Li Jifan , Zhou Zechen , Li Rui , Balu Niranjan , Yuan Chun , Chen Huijun , Zhao Xihai
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of the Simultaneous Noncontrast Angiography and intraPlaque hemorrhage (SNAP) technique in identification of carotid plaque surface characteristics compared with the conventional multicontrast vessel wall imaging protocol.

Materials and Methods

Thirty symptomatic patients with carotid plaque were recruited and underwent carotid artery magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (3.0T) using a conventional multicontrast protocol and SNAP sequence. As an intrinsic multicontrast sequence, SNAP could generate a gray blood reference (Ref) image set, a black blood corrected real (CR) image set, and a bright blood MR angiography (MRA) image set. A bright blood SNAP Ref2 image was implemented by combining Ref and MRA images for facilitating plaque surface characteristics evaluation. The presence/absence of calcification (CA), juxtaluminal calcification (JCA), and ulceration was assessed. The agreement between SNAP and multicontrast vessel wall protocol in identifying CA, JCA, and ulceration was analyzed using Cohen's kappa analysis. The interreader and intrareader reproducibility of SNAP imaging in identifying plaque surface characteristics was also assessed.

Results

Good to excellent agreement was found between SNAP and conventional multicontrast protocol in identifying CA (κ = 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54–0.93), JCA (κ = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.66–0.97), and ulceration (κ = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.65–0.99). In addition, excellent intrareader and interreader reproducibility was found for SNAP imaging in identification of CA, JCA, and ulceration.

Conclusion

SNAP imaging showed excellent agreement with multicontrast imaging and high reproducibility in identification of both JCA and ulceration, suggesting that SNAP imaging may be a time‐efficient, alternative tool in identification of plaque surface characteristics in carotid arteries.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:634–639.
Turbulent kinetic energy in the right ventricle: Potential MR marker for risk stratification of adults with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Fredriksson Alexandru , Trzebiatowska‐Krzynska Aleksandra , Dyverfeldt Petter , Engvall Jan , Ebbers Tino , Carlhäll Carl‐Johan
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To assess right ventricular (RV) turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rToF) and a spectrum of pulmonary regurgitation (PR), as well as to investigate the relationship between these 4D flow markers and RV remodeling.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen patients with rToF and 10 healthy controls were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups based on PR fraction: one lower PR fraction group (≤11%) and one higher PR fraction group (>11%). Field strength/sequences: 3D cine phase contrast (4D flow), 2D cine phase contrast (2D flow), and balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) at 1.5T. Assessment: The RV volume was segmented in the morphologic short‐axis images and TKE parameters were computed inside the segmented RV volume throughout diastole. Statistical tests: One‐way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post‐hoc test; unpaired t‐test; Pearson correlation coefficients; simple and stepwise multiple regression models; intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The higher PR fraction group had more remodeled RVs (140 ± 25 vs. 107 ± 22 [lower PR fraction, P < 0.01] and 93 ± 15 ml/m2 [healthy, P < 0.001] for RV end‐diastolic volume index [RVEDVI]) and higher TKE values (5.95 ± 3.15 vs. 2.23 ± 0.81 [lower PR fraction, P < 0.01] and 1.91 ± 0.78 mJ [healthy, P < 0.001] for Peak Total RV TKE). Multiple regression analysis between RVEDVI and 4D/2D flow parameters showed that Peak Total RV TKE was the strongest predictor of RVEDVI (R2 = 0.47, P = 0.002).

Conclusion

The 4D flow‐specific TKE markers showed a slightly stronger association with RV remodeling than conventional 2D flow PR parameters. These results suggest novel hemodynamic aspects of PR in the development of late complications after ToF repair.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1043–1053.
A 60 000‐year record of environmental change for the Wet Tropics of north‐eastern Australia based on the ODP 820 marine core
Authors: Moss Patrick T. , Dunbar Gavin B. , Thomas Zoe , Turney Chris , Kershaw A. Peter , Jacobsen Geraldine E.
Published: August 2017

Palynomorphs from the ODP Site 820 marine core have provided a detailed record of terrestrial environmental responses to glacial–interglacial forcing over the last 250 000 years in the Australian Wet Tropics. The development of an accurate geochronological framework for this key sequence has proved challenging. Consequently, different dominant forcing mechanism(s) have been proposed to drive environmental change in the low latitudes. A new chronology for the last 60 000 years, based on accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon (14C) dates of pollen concentrate material and the existing Marine Isotope Stage boundaries (MIS 4 to 1) has been produced. This new chronology provides a robust geochronological framework for interpreting environmental records across the region. In particular, our age model helps to resolve several debates concerning the timing of climatic changes and their impacts on both the marine and the terrestrial systems, as well as possible human arrival and associated impacts on the region's ecosystems. Our findings suggest 14C dating of terrestrial pollen concentrate in marine sediments is a valuable tool for resolving major chronological uncertainties in potentially diagenetically altered marine CaCO3 sediments and should play a role in future multi‐dating strategies. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Personalizing prognosis in colorectal cancer: A systematic review of the quality and nature of clinical prognostic tools for survival outcomes
Authors: Mahar Alyson L. , Compton Carolyn , Halabi Susan , Hess Kenneth R. , Weiser Martin R. , Groome Patti A.
Published: August 2017

Integrating diverse types of prognostic information into accurate, individualized estimates of outcome in colorectal cancer is challenging. Significant heterogeneity in colorectal cancer prognostication tool quality exists. Methodology is incompletely or inadequately reported. Evaluations of the internal or external validity of the prognostic model are rarely performed. Prognostication tools are important devices for patient management, but tool reliability is compromised by poor quality. Guidance for future development of prognostication tools in colorectal cancer is needed.
The possibility of free tissue transfer as a nutrient flap for critical ischemic foot: A case report
Authors: Tanaka Kentaro , Igari Kimihiro , Kishino Mitsuhiro , Usami Satoshi , Homma Tsutomu , Toyofuku Takahiro , Inoue Yoshinori , Okazaki Mutsumi
Published: August 2017

Microsurgical procedure of free tissue transfer in critical limb ischemia patients with large ulceration has already been established. The nutrient flap concept was that transferred tissue functioned not only to cover the skin defect but also as a supplementary blood supply to the ischemic lower leg. This report showed the justification for this concept, which was rarely discussed. A 58‐year‐old male patient with progressive forefoot gangrene caused by arteriosclerosis obliterans was presented. The distal bypass procedure was performed as revascularization surgery, and a latissimus dorsi (LD) myocutaneous flap was transplanted to cover ulceration. The arterial pedicle of the flap was anastomosed to the vein graft in an end‐to‐end manner, and the venous pedicle was anastomosed to the posterior tibialis vein in an end‐to‐end manner. Bypass graft blood flow went straight to the LD flap only. The postoperative course was uneventful. The free flap and right foot survived successfully and the patient was ambulatory with no recurrence of ulceration wearing order‐made shoes more than three years after transplantation. Vessel‐selective angiography was performed two months after surgery. An angiographic catheter was inserted into the bypass graft, which ran straight through the flap nutrient artery. The results obtained showed that not only the transferred flap area, but also the remaining original foot soft tissue (including the sole and heel) was clearly visualized radiologically only through the flap nutrient vessel. This findings of the angiography appear to provide direct evidence for the nutrient flap concept.
Ground states for Kirchhoff‐type equations with critical or supercritical growth
Authors: Li Quanqing , Teng Kaimin , Wu Xian
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we study the following Kirchhoff‐type equation with critical or supercritical growth

where a>0, b>0, λ>0, p≥6 and f is a continuous superlinear but subcritical nonlinearity. When V and f are asymptotically periodic in x, we prove that the equation has a ground state solution for small λ>0 by Nehari method. Moreover, we regard b as a parameter and obtain a convergence property of the ground state solution as b↘0. Our main contribution is related to the fact that we are able to deal with the case p>6.
A graph‐theoretic method to stabilize the delayed coupled systems on networks based on periodically intermittent control
Authors: Guo Beibei , Xiao Yu , Zhang Chiping
Published: August 2017

This paper mainly focus on the exponential stabilization problem of coupled systems on networks with mixed time‐varying delays. Periodically intermittent control is used to control the coupled systems on networks with mixed time‐varying delays. Moreover, based on the graph theory and Lyapunov method, two different kinds of stabilization criteria are derived, which are in the form of Lyapunov‐type theorem and coefficients‐type criterion, respectively. These laws reveal that the stability has a close relationship with the topology structure of the networks. In addition, as a subsequent result, a decision theorem is also presented. It is straightforward to show the stability of original system can be determined by that of modified system with added absolute value into the coupling weighted‐value matrix. Finally, the feasibility and validity of the obtained results are demonstrated by several numerical simulation figures.
Permanence and extinction of a nonautonomous impulsive plankton model with help
Authors: Wang Wen , Liu Shutang , Tian Dadong , Zhao Qiuyue
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we consider a nonautonomous impulsive plankton model with mutual help of preys. Sufficient conditions ensuring permanence and global attractivity of the model are established by the relation between solutions of impulsive system and corresponding nonimpulsive system. Also, we propose the conditions for which the species of system are driven to extinction. Numerical simulations are given to verify the main results.
On the essential spectra of coupled operators matrix and application
Authors: Belghith Marwa , Moalla Nedra , Walha Ines
Published: August 2017

We define an abstract setting to treat essential spectra of unbounded coupled operator matrix. We prove a well‐posedness result and develop a spectral theory which also allows us to prove an amelioration to many earlier works. We point out that a concrete example from integro‐differential equation fit into this abstract framework involving a general class of regular operator in L1 spaces.
On the Riemann‐Hilbert boundary value problem for generalized analytic functions in the framework of variable exponent spaces
Authors: Kokilashvili V. , Paatashvili V.
Published: August 2017

Let Γ be a simple closed curve that bounds the finite domain D, z=z(ζ)=z(reiϑ) be the conformal mapping of the circle {ζ:|ζ|<1} onto the domain D. Furthermore, let the functions A(z), B(z) be given on D and Us,2(A;B;D) be the set of regular solutions of the equation
.

We call the Smirnov class Ep(t)(A;B;D) the set of those generalized functions Win D for which

where p(t) is a positive measurable function on Γ.

We consider the Riemann‐Hilbert problem: Define a function W(z) from the class Ep(t)(A;B;D) for which the equality,

is fulfilled almost everywhere on Γ.

It is assumed that Γ is a piecewise‐smooth curve without external peaks;
, p is Log Hölder continuous and

the function
belongs to the class A(p(t);Γ), which is the generalization of the well‐known Simonenko class A(p;Γ), where p is constant.

The solvability conditions are established, and solutions are constructed.
Urodynamic and molecular characteristics of detrusor underactivity in a rat cryoinjury model and effects of low energy shock wave therapy
Authors: Chuang Yao‐Chi , Tyagi Pradeep , Wang Hung‐Jen , Huang Chao‐Cheng , Lin Chih‐Chieh , Chancellor Michael B.
Published: August 2017

Aims

Low energy shock wave (LESW) has been shown to facilitate tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. We investigated the effects of LESW in an underactive (DU) model induced by cryoinjury of rat detrusor.

Methods

Forty‐six female Sprague‐Dawley rats were divided into sham, cryoinjury with or without LESW (0.12 mJ/mm2; 200 pulses). Under halothane anesthesia, a low midline incision was made and a cryoinjury of detrusor was induced by placing an aluminum rod (chilled with dry ice) for 30 s on the serosal side of the bladder filled with 1 mL sterile saline bilaterally. Awake cystometrogram (CMG), molecular and histopathology studies were performed on Day 8 or 15 after cryoinjury.

Results

Significant urodynamic, histological, and molecular changes induced by cryoinjury of rat detrusor were detected on Day 8 and decrease in the contraction amplitude (54.3%), a significant increase in wet bladder weight (64.1%), edematous changes, muscle thinning and downregulation of α‐SMA, IL‐6, and upregulation of COX‐2. LESW reversed the cryoinjury induced histological and COX‐2 expression to cause a 49.0% increase in the contraction amplitude (P < 0.05). LESW induced cell proliferation was revealed by increased CD31 and Ki67 immunostaining. The effect of cryoinjury on urodynamic and histological changes was maintained till Day 15.

Conclusion

The cryoinjury of rat detrusor models myogenic DU, which is partially reversed by LESW. LESW may afford a simple, non‐invasive modality to facilitate tissue regeneration and improve voiding function in myogenic detrusor underactivity.
Two New Fluorogenic Aptasensors Based on Capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles to Detect Ochratoxin A
Authors: Ribes Àngela , Santiago‐Felipe Sara , Bernardos Andrea , Marcos M. Dolores , Pardo Teresa , Sancenón Félix , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Aznar Elena
Published: August 2017

Aptamers have been used as recognition elements for several molecules due to their great affinity and selectivity. Additionally, mesoporous nanomaterials have demonstrated great potential in sensing applications. Based on these concepts, we report herein the use of two aptamer‐capped mesoporous silica materials for the selective detection of ochratoxin A (OTA). A specific aptamer for OTA was used to block the pores of rhodamine B‐loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles. Two solids were prepared in which the aptamer capped the porous scaffolds by using a covalent or electrostatic approach. Whereas the prepared materials remained capped in water, dye delivery was selectively observed in the presence of OTA. The protocol showed excellent analytical performance in terms of sensitivity (limit of detection: 0.5–0.05 nm), reproducibility, and selectivity. Moreover, the aptasensors were tested for OTA detection in commercial foodstuff matrices, which demonstrated their potential applicability in real samples.
A cost analysis of individualized asparaginase treatment in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Kloos Robin Q.H. , Uyl‐de Groot Carin A. , van Litsenburg Raphaële R.L. , Kaspers Gertjan J.L. , Pieters Rob , van der Sluis Inge M.
Published: August 2017

Background

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of asparaginase is necessary to respond to variability in asparaginase activity levels, detect silent inactivation, and distinguish between real allergies and allergic‐like reactions with and without asparaginase neutralization, respectively. In this study, the costs of an individualized and fixed asparaginase dosing schedule were compared.

Procedure

Patients, treated according to the Dutch Childhood Oncology Group ALL‐11 protocol (individualized PEGasparaginase treatment, starting dose: 1,500 IU/m2) or ALL‐10 protocol (native Escherichia coli asparaginase followed by 2,500 IU/m2 PEGasparaginase), were included. To focus on TDM of PEGasparaginase, the costs were also calculated excluding patients treated with Erwinia asparaginase and compared to a hypothetical protocol with a fixed dose of 1,500 IU/m2 PEGasparaginase. Direct asparaginase‐related medical costs, including costs for asparaginase use (calculated with the absolute dose), TDM, laboratory tests, daycare treatment, and outpatient clinic visits, were calculated.

Results

Eighty‐three ALL‐10 patients and 51 ALL‐11 patients were included. The asparaginase‐related costs were 30.8% lower in ALL‐11 than in ALL‐10 ($29,048 vs. $41,960). The ALL‐11 costs of nonallergic patients were 20.4% lower, when using TDM, than the hypothetical protocol with a fixed dose of 1,500 IU/m2 ($13,178 vs. $16,551). TDM accounted for 12.4% of the costs. Including asparaginase waste, TDM in ALL‐11 will be cost saving if three doses can be prepared out of one vial compared to a fixed dose of 1,500 IU/m2.

Conclusions

TDM of asparaginase is cost saving if calculated with the absolute asparaginase dose and will be if the waste is minimalized by preparing multiple doses out of one vial.
Transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis leading to severe hemolysis in two patients with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Karkoska Kristine , Louie James , Appiah‐Kubi Abena O , Wolfe Lawrence , Rubin Lorry , Rajan Sujatha , Aygun Banu
Published: August 2017

The intracellular parasites Babesia microti and Babesia duncani can be transmitted by blood transfusion and cause severe life‐threatening hemolytic anemia in high‐risk patients, including those with sickle cell disease. The rarity of the diagnosis, as well as its similar clinical presentation to delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction, may lead to a delay in diagnosis, as well as inappropriate treatment with steroids or other immunosuppressive agents. The morbidity caused by this disease in especially vulnerable populations justifies the need for a universal blood‐screening program in endemic areas.
Value of flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood samples in children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Lam Grace , Punnett Angela , Stephens Derek , Sung Lillian , Abdelhaleem Mohamed , Hitzler Johann
Published: August 2017

Diagnostic procedures in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are typically performed under general anesthesia. Anticipation of the diagnosis based on findings in peripheral blood allows scheduling of the first dose of intrathecal chemotherapy and diagnostic bone marrow (BM) aspirate during a single anesthetic. We retrospectively compared paired results of peripheral blood (PB) flow cytometric analysis and BM evaluation in 383 children with ALL diagnosed consecutively at a single center and found very high concordance of results between both tests. We conclude that PB flow cytometry may help streamline planning of procedure‐related anesthetics during diagnosis and early treatment of childhood ALL.
Prevalence of multi‐drug resistant organisms in stool of paediatric patients with acute leukaemia and correlation with blood culture positivity: A single institution experience
Authors: Shankar Krupa , Radhakrishnan Venkatraman , Vijayakumar Varalakskmi , Ramamoorthy Jaikumar , Ganesan Prasanth , Dhanushkodi Manikandan , Ganesan T. S. , Sagar T. G.
Published: August 2017

Background

Multi‐drug resistant (MDR) bacteria are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in children with acute leukaemia. The present study was conducted to assess the prevalence of MDR bacteria in stool cultures of patients with acute leukaemia at presentation to the hospital. The results were then correlated with blood cultures when patients developed septicaemia.

Patients and methods

The study involved analysis of case records of patients with newly diagnosed acute leukaemia less than 18 years of age treated at our centre from January 2015 to December 2015. Stool cultures were sent within 72 hr of hospital admission and blood cultures were sent when clinically indicated. MDR was defined as resistance to at least one antibiotic in three or more following antimicrobial groups: cephalosporins, β‐lactam/β‐lactamase inhibitor, carbapenems, fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides.

Results

The analysis included 85 patients with acute leukaemia, among whom 48 of 85 (56%) patients had positive stool cultures and 42 of 85 (50%) patients were positive for MDR bacteria. Blood cultures were positive in 13 of 48 patients (27%, seven MDR and six non‐MDR) with positive stool cultures and three of 37 patients (8%, one MDR and two non‐MDR) with negative stool cultures (P = 0.01). The concordance between stool and blood culture for similar organism was 61%. There were seven deaths in 48 stool culture positive patients and two deaths in 37 stool culture negative patients.

Conclusion

This study shows the high prevalence of MDR bacteria in newly diagnosed children with acute leukaemia. Colonisation with MDR bacteria in stools is associated with increased positivity of blood cultures and mortality.
Prenatal influence of congenital heart defects on trajectories of cortical folding of the fetal brain using three‐dimensional ultrasound
Authors: Koning Irene V. , van Graafeiland Anne W. , Groenenberg Irene A.L. , Husen Sofie C. , Go Attie T.J.I. , Dudink Jeroen , Willemsen Sten P. , Cornette Jerome M.J. , Steegers‐Theunissen Régine P.M.
Published: August 2017

Objective

The objective of the study is to investigate the prenatal influence of congenital heart defects (CHD) on trajectories of fetal cortical folding using three‐dimensional ultrasound (3D US).

Method

We included 20 CHD fetuses and 193 controls for studying the fetal brain at 22, 26 and 32 weeks' gestational age (GA). The Sylvian, insula and parieto‐occipital fissure (POF) depths were measured using 3D US, and reliability was evaluated. Doppler indices of the umbilical artery and middle cerebral artery were measured to calculate the cerebro‐placental ratio. Associations between CHD and cortical folding were estimated using linear mixed models.

Results

Brain fissure measurements were successful in over 80% of 3D US scans, except for the POF at 32 weeks' GA (65%). All measurements showed a good reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients > 0.84). Growth trajectories of the left insula depth (ß = −2.753, 95% CI = −5.375; −0.130, p = 0.040) and right POF (ß = −3.762, 95% CI = −7.178; −0.346, p = 0.031) were decreased in CHD compared with controls, whereas growth rates were increased (ß = 0.014, 95% CI = 0.001; 0.027, p = 0.036 and ß = 0.024, 95% CI = 0.007; 0.041, p = 0.006). In contrast to controls, we found no associations between cerebro‐placental ratio and cortical folding in CHD.

Conclusion

Fetal cortical folding can be evaluated reliably by measuring brain fissure depths. Trajectories of cortical folding between 22 and 32 weeks' GA seem to be influenced by CHD. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proton irradiation of CdTe thin film photovoltaics deposited on cerium‐doped space glass
Authors: Lamb Dan A. , Underwood Craig I. , Barrioz Vincent , Gwilliam Russell , Hall James , Baker Mark A. , Irvine Stuart J.C.
Published: August 2017

Space photovoltaics is dominated by multi‐junction (III‐V) technology. However, emerging applications will require solar arrays with high specific power (kW/kg), flexibility in stowage and deployment, and a significantly lower cost than the current III‐V technology offers. This research demonstrates direct deposition of thin film CdTe onto the radiation‐hard cover glass that is normally laminated to any solar cell deployed in space. Four CdTe samples, with 9 defined contact device areas of 0.25 cm2, were irradiated with protons of 0.5‐MeV energy and varying fluences. At the lowest fluence, 1 × 1012 cm−2, the relative efficiency of the solar cells was 95%. Increasing the proton fluence to 1 × 1013 cm−2 and then 1 × 1014 cm−2 decreased the solar cell efficiency to 82% and 4%, respectively. At the fluence of 1 × 1013 cm−2, carrier concentration was reduced by an order of magnitude. Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator (SCAPS) modelling obtained a good fit from a reduction in shallow acceptor concentration with no change in the deep trap defect concentration. The more highly irradiated devices resulted in a buried junction characteristic of the external quantum efficiency, indicating further deterioration of the acceptor doping. This is explained by compensation from interstitial H+ formed by the proton absorption. An anneal of the 1 × 1014 cm−2 fluence devices gave an efficiency increase from 4% to 73% of the pre‐irradiated levels, indicating that the compensation was reversible. CdTe with its rapid recovery through annealing demonstrates a radiation hardness to protons that is far superior to conventional multi‐junction III‐V solar cells.
Relationship of teachers’ ratings of kindergarteners’ 21st century skills and student performance
Authors: Woods‐Groves Suzanne , Choi Taehoon
Published: August 2017

This study investigated the relationship of kindergarten teachers’ ratings of their students’ 21st century skills (college readiness skills) with students’ behavioral and academic performance. Teachers rated the frequency that their students (n = 579) demonstrated persistence, curiosity, affective, and cognitive (e.g., critical thinking) behaviors within their classrooms via the Human Behavior Rating Scale: Brief (HBRS: Brief, a teacher rating scale. The relationship of the HBRS: Brief teachers’ ratings was compared with data the school annually collected (behavioral ratings, academic performance, student office discipline referrals [ODRs], and absences). Hierarchical linear modeling indicated that teachers’ ratings of students’ persistence and cognition behaviors were significantly associated with students’ academic performance. Teachers’ persistence, curiosity, and externalizing affect ratings were predictive of behavioral ratings and teachers’ externalizing affect ratings were significantly associated with ODRs. The results support the efficacy of investigating teacher perceptions of students’ 21st century skills with kindergarteners.
Bullying and repeated conventional transgressions in Swedish schools: How do gender and bullying roles affect students’ conceptions?
Authors: Thornberg Robert , Pozzoli Tiziana , Gini Gianluca , Hong Jun Sung
Published: August 2017

Bullying is a moral transgression. Recognizing the importance of approaching bullying from a moral perspective, the present study examines whether children's judgments and reasoning to justify their judgments differ between bullying and repeated conventional transgressions. Our study also explores differences by gender and differences among bullies, victims, and uninvolved students. Participants included 381 students from 13 elementary schools in Sweden. Findings indicate that children judge bullying as more wrong than repeated conventional transgressions; use moral reasons more frequently in their justifications about bullying than about repeated conventional transgressions; and use conventional reasons more frequently to justify their judgments on repeated conventional transgressions as compared with bullying. Female students and nonbullies judged bullying and repeated conventional transgressions as more wrong and used moral reasons more frequently in their justifications of judgments of bullying than did male students and bullies. Male students reported bullying more than did female students. Implications for practice are also discussed.
Controlling open‐shell loading in norbornene‐based radical polymers modulates the solid‐state charge transport exponentially
Authors: Hay Martha E. , Hui Wong Si , Mukherjee Sanjoy , Boudouris Bryan W.
Published: August 2017

Radical polymers are an emerging class of electronically active macromolecules; however, the fundamental mechanism by which charge is transferred in these polymers has yet to be established in full. To address this issue, well‐defined norbornene‐based nitroxide radical polymers were synthesized using the controlled ring‐opening metathesis polymerization technique. These polymers were blended in solution with a quenched, electrically insulating hydroxylamine derivative to dilute the radical content of the system. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy data were used to characterize the radical content as well as to reveal that hydrogen atom transfer occurred between the open‐shell and closed‐shell polynorbornene derivatives when they were blended in solution. Using these platform macromolecules, we demonstrate that the systematic manipulation of the radical content in open‐shell macromolecules leads to exponential changes in the macroscopic electrical conductivity. When coupled with the fact that these materials show a clear temperature‐independent charge transport behavior, a picture emerges that charge transfer in radical polymers is dictated by a tunneling mechanism between localized donor and acceptor sites within the redox‐active thin films. These results constitute the first experimental insight into the mechanism of solid‐state electrical conduction in radical polymers, and this provides a design paradigm for open‐shell macromolecular charge transport. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1516–1525
Thermomagnetically Responsive γ‐Fe2O3@Wax@SiO2 Sub‐Micrometer Capsules
Authors: Baillot Marion , Hemery Gauvin , Sandre Olivier , Schmitt Véronique , Backov Rénal
Published: August 2017

A three steps synthesis route is proposed to generate thermosensitive and magnetically responsive γ‐Fe2O3@Wax@SiO2 sub‐micrometer capsules with a paraffinic core and a solid and brittle shell. The process integrates Pickering‐based emulsions, inorganic and sol–gel chemistries to promote monodisperse in size wax droplets, γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles and mineralization of the wax/water interfaces. Hybrid capsules are obtained with an average size around 800 nm, representing the first example of sub‐micrometer capsules generated employing Pickering emulsions as templates. Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) cationic surfactant added during mineralization at concentrations between 0.17 and 1.0 wt% impacts the shell density. The shell density seems to improve its mechanical strength while affording a low wax expansion volume without breaking for CTAB concentrations above 1.0 wt%. At lower CTAB concentration (0.17 wt%), the silica shell becomes less bulky and cannot resist the wax dilatation induced by the solid‐to‐liquid phase transition imposed by hyperthermia. The magnetically induced heating provided by the internal magnetic moments is sufficient to melt the wax core, expanding its volume, inducing thereby the surrounding silica shell rupture. Such γ‐Fe2O3@Stearic Acid@Wax@SiO2 sub‐micrometer capsules allow a sustained wax release with time, whereby 20% of the wax is released after 50 min of alternating magnetic field treatment.
Iron Precursor Decomposition in the Magnesium Combustion Flame: A New Approach for the Synthesis of Particulate Metal Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Gheisi Amir R. , Niedermaier Matthias , Tippelt Gerold , Lottermoser Werner , Bernardi Johannes , Diwald Oliver
Published: August 2017

Powders of Fe–Mg–O nanocomposite particles have been grown using a novel chemical vapor synthesis approach that employs the decomposition of a metalorganic precursor inside the metal combustion flame. After annealing in controlled gas atmospheres composition distribution functions, structure and phase stability of the obtained magnesiowüstite nanoparticles are measured with a combination of techniques such as inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Complementary Mössbauer spectroscopy measurements reveal that depending on Fe loading and temperature of annealing either metastable and superparamagnetic solid solutions of Fe3+ ions in periclase (MgO) or phase separated mixtures of MgO and ferrimagnetic magnesioferrite (MgFe2O4) nanoparticles can be obtained. The described combustion technique represents a novel concept for the production of mixed metal oxide nanoparticles. Adressing the impact of selected annealing protocols, this study underlines the great potential of vapor phase grown non‐equilibrium solids, where thermal processing provides means to trigger phase separation and, concomitantly, the emergence of new magnetic properties.
Bioactive Triterpenes from the Root of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge
Authors: Tung Nguyen Huu , Nakajima Kensuke , Uto Takuhiro , Hai Nguyen Thanh , Long Dinh Doan , Ohta Tomoe , Oiso Shigeru , Kariyazono Hiroko , Shoyama Yukihiro
Published: August 2017

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is a well‐known medicinal herb in the oriental medicine. The current study on bioactive triterpenoid in the root of S. miltiorrhiza led to the isolation of a new highly hydroxylated ursane‐type triterpene, urs‐12‐ene‐2α,3β,7β,16α‐tetraol (1) and five known ones including 2β‐hydroxypomolic acid (2), maslinic acid (3), asiatic acid (4), ursolic acid (5), and oleanolic acid (6). Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses and comparison with literature data. The antiproliferative testing against HL‐60 cells revealed that the new compound 1 and ursolic acid (5) showed weak and moderate activities with IC50 values of 42.2 and 11.7 μM. In addition, compounds 1–3 showed inhibitory effect on ghrelin activity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density matrix approach to orbital relaxation dynamics in ionization
Authors: Kitamura Hikaru
Published: August 2017

Dynamical response of electrons to a hole generated during ionization is formulated in time domain with the density matrix equations in the time‐dependent unrestricted Hartree–Fock approximation. Time evolutions of orbital energies and electron‐density distributions are computed for K‐shell and M‐shell ionizations of a Na atom by taking into account nonlinear coupling of density matrices beyond linear response. When the hole is generated so slowly that the adiabatic theorem is satisfied, the simulation eventually converges to the state of a fully relaxed Na+ ion. A rapid generation of a K‐shell hole (within about 1 fs) leads to a breakdown of the adiabatic theorem, triggering a collective oscillation of the electrons with the period of sub‐femtoseconds. The shake‐up effect associated with strong orbital relaxation in inner‐shell ionization is manifested as a mixing of occupied and unoccupied states in the density matrix.
A comparison of electrospray ionization, atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, and atmospheric pressure photoionization for the liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometric analysis of bisphenols. Application to bisphenols in thermal paper receipts and U.S. currency notes
Authors: Eichman Henry J. , Eck Bryan J. , Lagalante Anthony F.
Published: August 2017

Rationale

Human health concerns have arisen for common bisphenols (BPA and BPS) as well as new structural analogs. While native sulfone bisphenols and sulfone‐derivatized bisphenols are amenable to electrospray ionization (ESI), alternative ionization methods such as atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) and APPI were investigated to analyze non‐derivatized, non‐sulfone‐containing bisphenols.

Methods

Ionization of bisphenols using negative ion APPI was compared to negative ion ESI and negative ion APCI for their relative abilities to produce [M−H]− precursor ions for subsequent collision‐induced dissociation (CID) in a triple quadrupole mass analyzer. Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions were optimized using the most sensitive ion transitions and coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) separation to detect and quantify BPA, BPB, BPF, BPZ, BPAP, BPS, and BPSIP.

Results

APPI provides a more universal sensitivity over ESI toward the classes of bisphenols studied with detection limits of 20–50 pg on‐column. The LC/APPI‐MS/MS method was used to examine the levels of these seven bisphenols in thermal paper receipts and in U.S. paper currency. In both receipts and currency, BPA and BPS were the dominant bisphenols found in the paper.

Conclusions

The measurement of BPA and bisphenol analogs in thermal paper receipts and transfer of bisphenols from receipts to currency notes is of increasing importance to assess human dermal exposure routes to this class of compounds. Equivalent sensitivity between sulfone‐ and non‐sulfone‐containing bisphenols is achievable through the use of alternate ionization sources such as APCI and APPI that circumvents tedious and time‐consuming derivatization procedures to render analytical sensitivity by ESI.
Subcopula‐based measure of asymmetric association for contingency tables
Authors: Wei Zheng , Kim Daeyoung
Published: August 2017

For the analysis of a two‐way contingency table, a new asymmetric association measure is developed. The proposed method uses the subcopula‐based regression between the discrete variables to measure the asymmetric predictive powers of the variables of interest. Unlike the existing measures of asymmetric association, the subcopula‐based measure is insensitive to the number of categories in a variable, and thus, the magnitude of the proposed measure can be interpreted as the degree of asymmetric association in the contingency table. The theoretical properties of the proposed subcopula‐based asymmetric association measure are investigated. We illustrate the performance and advantages of the proposed measure using simulation studies and real data examples.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Properties of Three Copper(II) Complexes Constructed by 4‐(4,6‐Bis(1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2‐yl)morpholine
Authors: Chu Jin‐Feng , Zhang Ming‐Yu , Wang You‐Qing
Published: August 2017

Three copper(II) complexes of the polydentate N‐donor ligand [4‐(4,6‐bis(1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2‐yl)morpholine] (L) with chlorides, nitrates, and perchlorates as anions, namely, [CuCl2(L)]·0.5(MeCN) (1), [Cu(NO3)2(H2O)(L)]·(MeCN) (2), and [Cu(L)2](ClO4)2·(MeCN) (3) were synthesized and structurally characterized by IR, elemental analysis and X‐ray crystallographic analysis. In these complexes, the L ligand binds the copper(II) cation in the tridentate N3 form. The coordination arrangement around the central copper(II) atom is distorted square‐pyramidal in 1 but it is distorted octahedral in 2 and 3. The interesting noncovalent interactions such as hydrogen bonds, π–π stacking, and anion–π interactions present in the solid‐state structures are discussed. The crystal results reveal that the counteranions play important roles in determining the diverse structures of these complexes. Moreover, the PXRD, TG, DRS, and fluorescence properties of compounds 1–3 were investigated.
Current Strategy of Fetal Therapy II: Invasive Fetal Interventions
Authors: Nawapun Katika , Phithakwatchara Nisarat , Panchalee Tacharee , Viboonchart Sommai , Mongkolchat Nadda , Wataganara Tuangsit
Published: August 2017

Invasive fetal intervention provides potential benefits to the fetus, but risks to the mother and the fetus are not negligible. Large congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) may cause fetal hydrops. Shunt placement in macrocystic type or steroids administration in microcystic type CPAM have been reported to reverse the hydrops in a small case series. In selected cases of fetal congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), tracheal plugging may prevent egress of the lung fluid, promote lung proliferation, and maturation of pulmonary vasculature, which favor survival in isolated right-sided CDH fetuses or those with a lung-to-head ratio of ≤1.0. Fetoscopic cystoscopy with laser fulguration of the posterior urethral valve improves the 6-month survival and renal function. A randomized controlled trial to validate the real benefits of this procedure is still underway. Laser photocoagulation of anastomosing vessels is the standard of care for severe mid-trimester twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. The principle of equipoise is likely to be reached on the issue of optimal treatment for Quintero stage I disease. Open fetal surgery has been offered in some cases of fetal tumor and myelomeningocele (MMC). Alternatively, endoscopic approach is being investigated to minimize procedure-related maternal morbidity. Only when procedure-related complications are properly prevented and managed, it is expected that invasive therapeutic innovation will then improve perinatal outcomes of selected fetal conditions.
Allocating effort and anticipating pleasure in schizophrenia: Relationship with real world functioning
Authors: Serper M. , Payne E. , Dill C. , Portillo C. , Taliercio J.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Poor motivation to engage in goal-oriented behavior has been recognized as a hallmark feature of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SZ). Low drive in SZ may be related to anticipating rewards as well as to poor working memory. However, few studies to date have examined beliefs about self-efficacy and satisfaction for future rewards (anticipatory pleasure). Additionally, few studies to date have examined how these deficits may impact SZ patients’ real world functioning.

Method:

The present study examined SZ patients’ (n = 57) anticipatory pleasure, working memory, self-efficacy and real world functioning in relation to their negative symptom severity.

Results:

Results revealed that SZ patients’ negative symptom severity was related to decisions in effort allocation and reward probability, working memory deficits, self-efficacy and anticipatory pleasure for future reward. Effort allocation deficits also predicted patients’ daily functioning skills.

Conclusions:

SZ patients with high levels of negative symptoms are not merely effort averse, but have more difficulty effectively allocating effort and anticipating pleasure engaging in effortful activities. It may be the case that continuously failing to achieve reinforcement from engagement and participation may lead SZ patients to form certain negative beliefs about their abilities which contributes to amotivation and cognitive deficits. Lastly, our findings provide further support for a link between SZ patients functional daily living skills their effort allocation.
The electrical circuit of a hemodynamically unstable and recurrent ventricular tachycardia diagnosed in 35 s with the Rhythmia mapping system
Authors: Takigawa Masateru , Frontera Antonio , Thompson Nathaniel , Capellino Stefano , Jais Pierre , Sacher Frederic
Published: August 2017

Herein, we report a 47‐year‐old woman with ischemic cardiomyopathy who underwent ablation therapy due to an electrical storm without any triggers. The voltage mapping in sinus rhythm with the Rhythmia system and Orion catheter displayed several LAVAs in and around the anteroapical scar area. Although the patient did not tolerate the induced clinical ventricular tachycardia, which was reproductively induced, 35‐second‐mapping in the scar zone with the Orion catheter demonstrated the VT circuit with the critical isthmus. This report shows the possibility of the new ultra‐high density mapping system in a specific ischemic VT patient.
Vulnerability of Older Adults in Disasters: Emergency Department Utilization by Geriatric Patients After Hurricane Sandy
Authors: Malik Sidrah , Lee David C. , Doran Kelly M. , Grudzen Corita R. , Worthing Justin , Portelli Ian , Goldfrank Lewis R. , Smith Silas W.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Older adults are a potentially medically vulnerable population with increased mortality rates during and after disasters. To evaluate the impact of a natural disaster on this population, we performed a temporal and geospatial analysis of emergency department (ED) use by adults aged 65 years and older in New York City (NYC) following Hurricane Sandy’s landfall.

Methods

We used an all-payer claims database to analyze demographics, insurance status, geographic distribution, and health conditions for post-disaster ED visits among older adults. We compared ED patterns of use in the weeks before and after Hurricane Sandy throughout NYC and the most afflicted evacuation zones.

Results

We found significant increases in ED utilization by older adults (and disproportionately higher in those aged ≥85 years) in the 3 weeks after Hurricane Sandy, especially in NYC evacuation zone one. Primary diagnoses with notable increases included dialysis, electrolyte disorders, and prescription refills. Secondary diagnoses highlighted homelessness and care access issues.

Conclusions

Older adults display heightened risk for worse health outcomes with increased ED visits after a disaster. Our findings suggest the need for dedicated resources and planning for older adults following a natural disaster by ensuring access to medical facilities, prescriptions, dialysis, and safe housing and by optimizing health care delivery needs to reduce the burden of chronic disease. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:184–193)
Two-dimensional energy spectra in high-Reynolds-number turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Chandran Dileep , Baidya Rio , Monty Jason P. , Marusic Ivan
Published: August 2017

Here, we report the measurements of two-dimensional (2-D) spectra of the streamwise velocity ($u$) in a high-Reynolds-number turbulent boundary layer. A novel experiment employing multiple hot-wire probes was carried out at friction Reynolds numbers ranging from 2400 to 26 000. Taylor’s frozen turbulence hypothesis is used to convert temporal-spanwise information into a 2-D spatial spectrum which shows the contribution of streamwise ($\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}_{x}$) and spanwise ($\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}_{y}$) length scales to the streamwise variance at a given wall height ($z$). At low Reynolds numbers, the shape of the 2-D spectra at a constant energy level shows$\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}_{y}/z\sim (\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}_{x}/z)^{1/2}$behaviour at larger scales, which is in agreement with the existing literature at a matched Reynolds number obtained from direct numerical simulations. However, at high Reynolds numbers, it is observed that the square-root relationship tends towards a linear relationship ($\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}_{y}\sim \unicode[STIX]{x1D706}_{x}$), as required for self-similarity and predicted by the attached eddy hypothesis.