bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community awareness and engagement to prevent alcohol related harm: Stakeholder priorities in West Africa
Authors: Jalloh Boi-Jeneh , Umenze Franklin , Swahn Monica H. , Bangura Issa , Jalloh Alhassan
Published: August 2024

Aims: West Africa is disproportionately harmed by alcohol consumption. However, limited information is available about the alcohol prevention strategies used by stakeholders in West Africa. In addition, there is scant awareness of health consequences from alcohol use among the communities with which stakeholders engage in alcohol prevention.
Design/Setting/Participants: A cross-sectional survey was distributed in 2020 by the West African Alcohol Policy Alliance to their member alliances and stakeholders across nine countries. Analyses were computed based on 171 persons/organizations completing the survey. 
Measures: The West Africa Alcohol Policy Alliance Capacity Assessment Survey (WAAPACAS) included questions about programs and service delivery, alcohol prevention strategies used, and community knowledge of alcohol as a risk factor for a range of health concerns.
Results: In terms of addressing alcohol-related harm, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community-based organizations (CBOs) across West Africa engage primarily in community outreach and health promotion activities. Even so, awareness of alcohol as a risk factor for key health conditions remains relatively low, and varies by country and acute versus longer term consequences.
Conclusion: Leveraging the outreach and engagement by NGOs/CBOs will be critically important for addressing alcohol-related harm in West Africa. However, NGOs/CBOs will need additional capacity and information to convey that alcohol is a key risk factor for several health outcomes to ensure communities are more informed about the range of alcohol-related harms.
Post-exposure Rabies Prophylaxis in People Bitten by Warm-blooded Animals at the Epidemic Treatment Center of Kindia Regional Hospital, Guinea
Authors: Diallo Mamadou Oury Safiatou , Bah Ibrahima , Diallo Amadou Daye , Sylla Karamba , Fofana Ibrahima , Barry Thierno Alimou , Sylla Aminata Oumou , Traore Fodé Amara , Sako Fodé Bangaly , Sow Mamadou Saliou
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The objective of this work was to describe post-exposure prophylaxis to rabies in patients admitted to the CT-EPI of the Kindia regional hospital.
Material and Methods: The data was collected retrospectively over 5 years 10 months (from January 1, 2014 to October 2019) and covering all usable files of people who consulted for bites, scratches or licking of mucous membranes or skin eroded by an animal warm-blooded, domestic or wild, showing obvious or non-obvious signs of rabies.
The study variables were epidemiological, clinical then prophylactic and concerned the biting animal, the person bitten and the therapeutic regimen used for the prevention of rabies infection.
Results: From January 2014 to October 2019, 415 patients exposed to the risk of rabies were received at the epidemic treatment center of the Kindia regional hospital. The average age of the patients was 25 years with extremes of 1 and 90 years and the sex ratio (M/F) was 1.18. The dog was responsible for most cases of risk of rabies infection (91.81%), the bite was the main reason for consultation (91.81%). The foot was the site of the bite in 84.34% of cases. A large proportion of exposed subjects (42.89%) were treated within 24 hours of their exposure. Almost all patients benefited from the Zagreb protocol with a post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) discontinuation rate of 39%.
Conclusion: Stray dogs are responsible for the majority of bites. The Zagreb protocol was used much more often for the treatment of exposed individuals to eliminate the risk of rabies.
Toward efficiency in heterogeneous multispecies reactive transport modeling: A particle‐tracking solution for first‐order network reactions
Authors: Henri Christopher V. , Fernàndez‐Garcia Daniel
Published: August 2014

Modeling multispecies reactive transport in natural systems with strong heterogeneities and complex biochemical reactions is a major challenge for assessing groundwater polluted sites with organic and inorganic contaminants. A large variety of these contaminants react according to serial‐parallel reaction networks commonly simplified by a combination of first‐order kinetic reactions. In this context, a random‐walk particle tracking method is presented. This method is capable of efficiently simulating the motion of particles affected by first‐order network reactions in three‐dimensional systems, which are represented by spatially variable physical and biochemical coefficients described at high resolution. The approach is based on the development of transition probabilities that describe the likelihood that particles belonging to a given species and location at a given time will be transformed into and moved to another species and location afterward. These probabilities are derived from the solution matrix of the spatial moments governing equations. The method is fully coupled with reactions, free of numerical dispersion and overcomes the inherent numerical problems stemming from the incorporation of heterogeneities to reactive transport codes. In doing this, we demonstrate that the motion of particles follows a standard random walk with time‐dependent effective retardation and dispersion parameters that depend on the initial and final chemical state of the particle. The behavior of effective parameters develops as a result of differential retardation effects among species. Moreover, explicit analytic solutions of the transition probability matrix and related particle motions are provided for serial reactions. An example of the effect of heterogeneity on the dechlorination of organic solvents in a three‐dimensional random porous media shows that the power‐law behavior typically observed in conservative tracers breakthrough curves can be largely compromised by the effect of biochemical reactions.
Improved methods for satellite‐based groundwater storage estimates: A decade of monitoring the high plains aquifer from space and ground observations
Authors: Breña‐Naranjo Jose Agustin , Kendall Anthony D. , Hyndman David W.
Published: August 2014

The impacts of climate extremes and water use on groundwater storage across large aquifers can be quantified using Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite monitoring. We present new methods to improve estimates of changes in groundwater storage by incorporating irrigation soil moisture corrections to common data assimilation products. These methods are demonstrated using data from the High Plains Aquifer (HPA) for 2003 to 2013. Accounting for the impacts of observed and inferred irrigation on soil moisture significantly improves estimates of groundwater storage changes as verified by interpolated measurements from ~10,000 HPA wells. The resulting estimates show persistent declines in groundwater storage across the HPA, more severe in the southern and central HPA than in the north. Groundwater levels declined by an average of approximately 276 ± 23 mm from 2003 to 2013, resulting in a storage loss of 125 ± 4.3 km3, based on the most accurate of the three methods developed here.
Ground‐based observations of nitric oxide in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere over Antarctica in 2012–2013
Authors: Isono Yasuko , Mizuno Akira , Nagahama Tomoo , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Nakamura Takuji , Kataoka Ryuho , Tsutsumi Masaki , Ejiri Mitsumu K. , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Maezawa Hiroyuki , Uemura Miku
Published: August 2014

We report temporal variations of the partial column density of nitric oxide (NO) in an altitude range 75–105 km at Syowa Station, Antarctica, from January 2012 to September 2013. We found two patterns of NO temporal variation: (1) a seasonal cycle with a maximum in winter and a minimum in summer, and (2) short‐term enhancements on a time frame of 5–10 days associated with solar activities. In the seasonal cycle, the variation pattern of NO showed good agreement with scotoperiod of solar radiation rather than the downwelling atmospheric transport, suggesting that photodissociation is the main driver of the seasonal variation. To study the short‐term enhancements, we compared the NO column density with the proton and electron fluxes obtained by the POES/METOP (Polar Orbiting Environmental Satellite/Meteorological Operational) satellites. There is a weak but significant correlation between the NO and the electron flux, but no correlation between the NO and the proton flux. We also made a detailed comparison of the time series of NO and proton/electron fluxes for 12 selected 25‐day time frames, and found that at least two remarkable NO enhancements occurred without any solar proton events (SPEs). During electron precipitation, the NO column density peaked 1–5 days after the commencement of geomagnetic storms, whereas the relationship between NO and the solar proton is not clear because the electron flux also increased at the same time. These results suggest that energetic electron precipitation may be a major cause of NO enhancements above Syowa Station in the auroral region, even during SPEs.
Effect of mesoscale eddies and streamers on sardine spawning habitat and recruitment success off Southern and central California
Authors: Nieto Karen , McClatchie Sam , Weber Edward D. , Lennert‐Cody Cleridy E.
Published: August 2014

We quantified the effect of mesoscale eddies and streamers on the spatial distribution of Pacific sardine spawning habitat using a merged altimetry data set and a statistical spawning habitat model. The distribution of eggs could be predicted using sea‐surface temperature, chlorophyll concentration, and eddy kinetic energy (EKE) similarly to previous studies. Eddies alone did not have a significant additional or emergent effect on the probability of capturing eggs beyond these predictors. Rather, mesoscale features (eddies and streamers) entrained water with the appropriate conditions in terms of temperature, chlorophyll, and EKE. These dynamic features moved appropriate spawning habitat for sardine offshore to areas where appropriate habitat otherwise would not exist. Using centroids of predicted sardine habitat, we showed that sardine recruitment success was inversely correlated with distance from shore of predicted sardine habitat centroids. This indicates that offshore transport has a negative effect on sardine recruitment, despite expanding favorable spawning habitat further offshore.
Optimal initial conditions for coupling ice sheet models to Earth system models
Authors: Perego Mauro , Price Stephen , Stadler Georg
Published: August 2014

We address complications in the coupling of a dynamic ice sheet model (ISM) and forcing from an Earth system model (ESM), which arise because of the unknown ISM initial conditions. Unless explicitly accounted for during ISM initialization, the ice sheet is far from thermomechanical equilibrium with the surface mass balance forcing from the ESM. Upon coupling to ESM forcing, the result is a shock and unphysical and undesirable transients in ice geometry and other state variables. Under the assumption of thermomechanical equilibrium, we present an approach for finding ISM initial conditions—characterized by optimization of the basal sliding coefficient and basal topography fields—that balance a best fit to surface velocity and basal topography observations against the minimization of unphysical transients when coupling to surface mass balance forcing. A quasi‐Newton method is used to solve the resulting large‐scale, partial differential equation‐constrained optimization problem, where the cost function gradients with respect to the parameter fields are computed using adjoints. After studying properties of our approach on a synthetic test problem, we apply the method toward obtaining optimal initial conditions for a model of the Greenland ice sheet. Our results show that, in the presence of uncertainties in the basal topography, ice thickness should also be treated as an optimization variable. While the focus here is on the coupling between an ISM and ESM‐derived surface mass balance, the method is easily extended to include optimal coupling to forcing from an ocean model through submarine melt rates.
Qualitative changes of riverine dissolved organic matter at low salinities due to flocculation
Authors: Asmala Eero , Bowers David G. , Autio Riitta , Kaartokallio Hermanni , Thomas David N.
Published: August 2014

The flocculation of dissolved organic matter (DOM) was studied along transects through three boreal estuaries. Besides the bulk concentration parameters, a suite of DOM quality parameters were investigated, including colored DOM (CDOM), fluorescent DOM, and the molecular weight of DOM as well as associated dissolved iron concentrations. We observed significant deviations from conservative mixing at low salinities (<2) in the estuarine samples of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), UV absorption (a(CDOM254)), and humic‐like fluorescence. The maximum deviation from conservative mixing for DOC concentration was −16%, at salinities between 1 and 2. An associated laboratory experiment was conducted where an artificial salinity gradient between 0 and 6 was created. The experiment confirmed the findings from the estuarine transects, since part of the DOC and dissolved iron pools were transformed to particulate fraction (>0.2 µm) and thereby removing them from the dissolved phase. We also measured flocculation of CDOM, especially in the UV region of the absorption spectrum. Protein‐like fluorescence of DOM decreased, while humic‐like fluorescence increased because of salt‐induced flocculation. Additionally, there was a decrease in molecular weight of DOM. Consequently, the quantity and quality of the remaining DOM pool was significantly changed after influenced to flocculation. Based on these results, we constructed a mechanistic, two‐component flocculation model. Our findings underline the importance of the coastal filter, where riverine organic matter is flocculated and exported to the sediments.
Quantitative characterization of stream turbidity‐discharge behavior using event loop shape modeling and power law parameter decorrelation
Authors: Mather Amanda L. , Johnson Richard L.
Published: August 2014

Turbidity behavior in streams is a complex and dynamic function of both source material supply and event‐driven transport. While the primary controls on turbidity behavior across time and space are still not fully understood, recent increases in the availability of high temporal resolution, colocated stream turbidity, and discharge data provide an opportunity for more detailed analysis. Here we examine methods to quantitatively characterize event responses by modeling the shape of turbidity‐discharge hysteresis loops. A total of 1559 events from 20 gages in the Mid‐Atlantic region of the U.S. were modeled using both previously reported models and new models combining elements of existing models. The results suggest that a more general power law‐based model, utilizing both a discharge rate of change term and a “supply” term, allows characterization of a wide range of simple and complex events. Additionally, this study explores a decorrelation approach to address the strong correlation frequently observed between the power law model coefficient (
) and exponent (
), with the goal of exposing the underlying behavior of each parameter individually. An examination of seasonal parameter behavior suggests that this approach may facilitate greater physically based interpretation of the power law coefficient. The power law parameter decorrelation strategy and the loop models examined here provide a step toward the larger goal of understanding the physical controls on turbidity‐discharge hysteretic behavior.
Pain Phenotype in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: Classification and Measurement Properties of painDETECT and Self‐Report Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs Scale in a Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Moreton Bryan J. , Tew Victoria , das Nair Roshan , Wheeler Maggie , Walsh David A. , Lincoln Nadina B.
Published: August 2014

Objective

Multiple mechanisms are involved in pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). The painDETECT and Self‐Report Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (S‐LANSS) questionnaires screen for neuropathic pain and may also identify individuals with musculoskeletal pain who exhibit abnormal central pain processing. The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to evaluate painDETECT and S‐LANSS for classification agreement and fit to the Rasch model, and to explore their relationship to pain severity and pain mechanisms in OA.

Methods

A total of 192 patients with knee OA completed questionnaires covering different aspects of pain. Another group of 77 patients with knee OA completed questionnaires and underwent quantitative sensory testing for pressure–pain thresholds (PPTs). Agreement between painDETECT and S‐LANSS was evaluated using kappa coefficients and receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. Rasch analysis of both questionnaires was conducted. Relationships between screening questionnaires and measures of pain severity or PPTs were calculated using correlations.

Results

PainDETECT and S‐LANSS shared a stronger correlation with each other than with measures of pain severity. ROC curves identified optimal cutoff scores for painDETECT and S‐LANSS to maximize agreement, but the kappa coefficient was low (κ = 0.33–0.46). Rasch analysis supported the measurement properties of painDETECT but not those of S‐LANSS. Higher painDETECT scores were associated with widespread reductions in PPTs.

Conclusion

The data suggest that painDETECT assesses pain quality associated with augmented central pain processing in patients with OA. Although developed as a screening questionnaire, painDETECT may also function as a measure of characteristics that indicate augmented central pain processing. Agreement between painDETECT and S‐LANSS for pain classification was low, and it is currently unknown which tool may best predict treatment outcome.
Indicators of Walking Speed in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Relative Influence of Articular, Psychosocial, and Body Composition Characteristics
Authors: Lusa Amanda L. , Amigues Isabelle , Kramer Henry R. , Dam Thuy‐Tien , Giles Jon T.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To explore the contributions from and interactions between articular swelling and damage, psychosocial factors, and body composition characteristics on walking speed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

RA patients underwent the timed 400‐meter long‐corridor walk. Demographics, self‐reported levels of depressive symptoms and fatigue, RA characteristics, and body composition (using whole‐body dual X‐ray absorptiometry, and abdominal and thigh computed tomography) were assessed and their associations with walking speed explored.

Results

A total of 132 RA patients had data for the 400‐meter walk, among whom 107 (81%) completed the full 400 meters. Significant multivariable indicators of slower walking speed were older age, higher depression scores, higher reported pain and fatigue, higher swollen and replaced joint counts, higher cumulative prednisone exposure, nontreatment with disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs, and worse body composition. These features accounted for 60% of the modeled variability in walking speed. Among specific articular features, slower walking speed was primarily correlated with large/medium lower‐extremity joint involvement. However, these articular features accounted for only 21% of the explainable variability in walking speed. Having any relevant articular characteristic was associated with a 20% lower walking speed among those with worse body composition (P < 0.001), compared with only a 6% lower speed among those with better body composition (P = 0.010 for interaction).

Conclusion

Psychosocial factors and body composition are potentially reversible contributors to walking speed in RA. Relative to articular disease activity and damage, nonarticular indicators were collectively more potent indicators of an individual's mobility limitations.
Major Depression Diagnoses Among Patients With Systemic Sclerosis: Baseline and One‐Month Followup
Authors: Thombs Brett D. , Jewett Lisa R. , Kwakkenbos Linda , Hudson Marie , Baron Murray ,   the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group
Published: August 2014

Objective

Depression is common in many rheumatic diseases and is associated with poor prognosis. No studies of patients with any rheumatic diseases, however, have assessed the stability of major depressive disorder (MDD) diagnoses over time. The objective of the present study was to assess the stability of MDD diagnoses among patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma), a rare autoimmune rheumatic disease, across 2 assessments approximately 1 month apart.

Methods

SSc patients were recruited from 7 Canadian Scleroderma Research Group Registry sites (April 2009 to June 2012). Current (30‐day) MDD was assessed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview at baseline and approximately 1 month later.

Results

Among 309 patients with baseline assessments who received followup assessments an average of 34 days later, prevalence of 30‐day MDD was 4% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2%–7%; n = 12) at baseline and 5% (95% CI 3%–8%; n = 16) at followup. Only 3 of 12 patients (25% [95% CI 9%–53%]) with MDD at baseline had MDD 1 month later.

Conclusion

Most patients with SSc who meet criteria for MDD appear to experience mild, time‐limited episodes of low mood that often resolve on their own without specific treatment. Consistent with international guidelines on depression management in nonpsychiatric settings, “watchful waiting” or “active monitoring” is a good strategy for SSc patients with mild depression to avoid unnecessary treatment among those whose symptoms may be transient and may resolve without medical intervention.
Validation of the LupusPRO in Chinese Patients From Hong Kong With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Mok Chi Chiu , Kosinski Mark , Ho Ling Yin , Chan Kar Li , Jolly Meenakshi
Published: August 2014

Objective

LupusPRO is a disease‐targeted, patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measure that was developed and validated for assessment of quality of life in US patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We present results of adapting the LupusPRO into Chinese and testing its psychometric properties in Chinese patients with SLE.

Methods

LupusPRO was translated into “traditional” Chinese, followed by pretesting among native Cantonese Chinese speakers. The translation version was revised based on the feedback obtained. The Chinese language LupusPRO tool was administered along with a generic PRO tool (the Short Form 36 health survey [SF‐36]) to ethnic Chinese SLE patients. At the same time, demographic information, clinical data, disease activity (Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment [SELENA] version of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index [SLEDAI]), and damage (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index [SDI]) were obtained. We performed confirmatory factor analysis of the Chinese LupusPRO and evaluated internal consistency reliability, as well as convergent and criterion validity.

Results

Among the 463 SLE patients (95% women) with a mean ± SD age of 42.3 ± 13.5 years, the mean ± SD physician global assessment score was 0.48 ± 0.45, the mean ± SD SELENA‐SLEDAI score was 2.9 ± 3.0, and the mean ± SD SDI score was 0.7 ± 1.2. Results of factor analysis conformed to the original LupusPRO model with only minor modifications. The reliability of the LupusPRO domains ranged from 0.60–0.94. LupusPRO domains had correlations as expected with the corresponding SF‐36 domains. A significant but weak correlation with disease activity was noted for criterion validity as expected.

Conclusion

The Chinese language LupusPRO has fair psychometric properties and may be used in SLE clinical trials.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Referrals and Rheumatologist Scarcity: A Prioritization Tool
Authors: Cummins Lisa L. , Vangaveti Venkat , Roberts Lynden J.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To assess whether applying the 2010 American College of Rheumatology (ACR)/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to primary care referrals improved triage decisions and reduced waiting times, and to determine the sensitivity and specificity of this strategy.

Methods

The 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria for RA were prospectively applied over 8 months to all new adult rheumatology referrals with possible inflammatory arthritis. If the referral contained insufficient information, a request was sent for more information. Joint count was based on physician report, and definite swelling was not required. Referrals meeting triage criteria were offered an appointment within 6 weeks. Data were collected on rheumatologist diagnosis, disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) use, and waiting times.

Results

Of 457 referrals screened, 180 met inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 143 had sufficient data after requests for information. Seventy‐one referrals met triage criteria, and of the 63 attending the appointment, 25 (40%) received a rheumatologist diagnosis of RA. Seventy‐two referrals did not meet criteria, and 1 of 49 attending (2%) had RA. The characteristics of the tool for a diagnosis of RA were sensitivity 96%, specificity 56%, positive predictive value 40%, and negative predictive value 98%. Median wait times for referrals fulfilling and not fulfilling triage tool criteria were 7.9 weeks and 45.4 weeks, respectively.

Conclusion

Implementing the 2010 ACR/EULAR criteria for RA as a prioritization tool for primary care referrals improved the number of patients subsequently diagnosed with RA. Waiting time was reduced for RA patients. Applying this strategy in areas of rheumatologist scarcity may permit earlier DMARD treatment.
Preliminary Evidence of Altered Biomechanics in Adolescents With Juvenile Fibromyalgia
Authors: Sil Soumitri , Thomas Staci , DiCesare Christopher , Strotman Daniel , Ting Tracy V. , Myer Gregory , Kashikar‐Zuck Susmita
Published: August 2014

Objective

Juvenile fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by chronic musculoskeletal pain and marked reduction in physical activity. Despite recommendations for exercise to manage juvenile FM pain, exercise adherence is poor. Because of pain and activity avoidance, adolescents with juvenile FM are at risk for altered joint mechanics that may make them susceptible to increased pain and reduced tolerance for exercise. The primary aim of this study was to assess functional deficits in patients with juvenile FM compared to healthy controls using objective biomechanical assessment.

Methods

Female adolescent patients with juvenile FM (n = 17) and healthy controls (n = 14) completed biomechanical assessments, including gait analysis and tests of lower extremity strength (isokinetic knee extension/flexion and hip abduction) and functional performance (drop vertical jump test) along with self‐reported measures of disability (Functional Disability Inventory), pain intensity, depressive symptoms (Children's Depression Inventory), and fear of movement (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia).

Results

Patients with juvenile FM demonstrated mild deficiencies in walking gait and functional performance (P < 0.05 for both) and significantly lower left knee extension and flexion strength (18–22% deficit) and bilateral hip abduction strength (34–38%) compared with healthy controls (P < 0.008 for all). Patients with juvenile FM reported significantly higher functional disability, pain intensity, depressive symptoms, and fear of movement relative to controls (P < 0.01 for all).

Conclusion

This study showed that adolescents with juvenile FM exhibited objective alterations in biomechanics and self‐reported fear of movement that may have reinforced their activity avoidance. Interventions for juvenile FM should include a focus on correcting functional deficits and instilling greater confidence in adolescents with juvenile FM to engage in exercise to improve functional outcomes.
Gold‐Cobalt Nanoparticle Alloys Exhibiting Tunable Compositions, Near‐Infrared Emission, and High T2 Relaxivity
Authors: Marbella Lauren E. , Andolina Christopher M. , Smith Ashley M. , Hartmann Michael J. , Dewar Andrew C. , Johnston Kathryn A. , Daly Owen H. , Millstone Jill E.
Published: August 2014

We demonstrate the synthesis of discrete, composition‐tunable gold‐cobalt nanoparticle alloys (% Co = 0–100%; diameter = 2–3 nm), in contrast with bulk behavior, which shows immiscibility of Au and Co at room temperature across all composition space. These particles are characterized by transmission electron microscopy and 1H NMR techniques, as well as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. In particular, 1H NMR methods allow the simultaneous evaluation of composition‐tunable magnetic properties as well as molecular characterization of the colloid, including ligand environment and hydrodynamic diameter. These experiments also demonstrate a route to optimize bimodal imaging modalities, where we identify AuxCoyNP compositions that exhibit both bright NIR emission (2884 m
−1cm−1) as well as some of the highest per‐particle T
2 relaxivities (12200 mm
NP
−1s−1) reported to date for this particle size range.
Nanoparticles with Precise Ratiometric Co‐Loading and Co‐Delivery of Gemcitabine Monophosphate and Cisplatin for Treatment of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Miao Lei , Guo Shutao , Zhang Jing , Kim William Y. , Huang Leaf
Published: August 2014

Combination chemotherapy is a common practice in clinical management of malignancy. Synergistic therapeutic outcome is only achieved when tumor cells are exposed to cells in an optimal ratio. However, due to diverse physicochemical properties of drugs, no free drug cocktails or nanomaterials are capable of co‐loading and co‐delivering drugs at an optimal ratio. Herein, we develop a novel nano‐platform with precise ratiometric co‐loading and co‐delivery of two hydrophilic drugs for synergistic anti‐tumor effects. Based on previous work, we utilize a solvent displacement method to ratiometrically load dioleoyl phosphatidic acid (DOPA)‐gemcitabine monophosphate (GMP) and DOPA coated cisplatin‐precipitate nanocores into the same PLGA NP. These cores are designed to have similar hydrophobic surface properties. GMP and cisplatin are engineered into PLGA NP at an optimal synergistic ratio (5:1, mol:mol) with over 70% encapsulation efficiency and were ratiometrically taken up by tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. These PLGA NP exhibit synergistic anti‐cancer effects in a stroma‐rich bladder tumor model. A single injection of dual drugs in PLGA NP can significantly inhibit tumor growth. This nanomaterial‐system solves problems related to ratiometric co‐loading and co‐delivery of different hydrophilic moieties and provides possibilities for co‐loading hydrophilic drugs with hydrophobic drugs for combination therapy.
Improved Operational Stability of Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Silver Nanowire Electrode Through Pre‐Bias Conditioning Treatment
Authors: Lee Yonghee , Suh Minwon , Kim Donghyuk , Lee Dongchan , Chang Hyein , Lee Ho Seok , Kim Yeon Won , Kim TaeYoung , Suh Kwang S. , Jeon Duk Young
Published: August 2014

For the first time, highly efficient and flexible polymer light emitting diodes (PLEDs) based on silver nanowire (AgNW) electrode, with improved operational stability by simply applying pre‐bias conditioning treatment, are demonstrated. Reverse bias conditioning performed before J–V–L measurement of the PLEDs enables the rough AgNW networks to function properly as a bottom electrode by stabilizing current characteristics, and the devices continue to show consistent operational performances. Conditions of applied bias and thicknesses of active layer are controlled for optimization and it is found that high reverse voltage is required to obtain current stabilization. Adequate thickness of polymer is also necessary to avoid breakdown induced by reverse bias. The essential effect of pre‐bias conditioning on the improved performances of PLEDs is investigated, and it is found that morphological change of AgNW networks contribute to the improvement in device performance. Some of the AgNWs that appear to be pathway of leakage current are deformed, and surface roughness (RMS) of the AgNW film is decreased while the sheet resistance of the film is maintained when the reverse bias conditioning is applied. It is also revealed that pre‐bias conditioning is independent from directionality of the applied bias when utilizing insulating polymer sandwiched between two electrodes.
Ordered Honeycomb Structure Surface Generated by Breath Figures for Liquid Reprography
Authors: Heng Liping , Li Jie , Li Muchen , Tian Dongliang , Fan Li‐Zhen , Jiang Lei , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2014

In this paper, photoelectric cooperative induced patterned wetting is demonstrated on a hydrophobic ordered polymeric honeycomb structure surface, which is prepared by BF method, then photosensitizing with a dye and hydrophobizing with low‐surface‐energy materials; finally, photoelectric cooperative induced patterned wetting is achieved on such a hydrophobic honeycomb structure surface. These results indicate that this work is promising for broadening the applications of photoelectric cooperative liquid reprography, which break the limitations of only using inorganic materials and super‐hydrophobic materials. It should be of great scientific interest to extend the relevant research from inorganic nanorod, nanopore, and nanotube structures to polymeric honeycomb structures, because polymeric materials can overcome the inherent drawbacks of the inorganic materials owing to their advantages of low specific weight, flexibility, tunable material properties, and wide variety.
A Versatile Approach towards Multifunctional Robust Microcapsules with Tunable, Restorable, and Solvent‐Proof Superhydrophobicity for Self‐Healing and Self‐Cleaning Coatings
Authors: Wu Gang , An Jinliang , Tang Xiu‐Zhi , Xiang Yong , Yang Jinglei
Published: August 2014

Numerous microencapsulation techniques have been developed to encase various chemicals, for which specific processing parameters are required to address the widely differing features of the encapsulated materials. Microencapsulation of reactive agents is a powerful technique that has been extensively applied to self‐healing materials. However, the poor solvent compatibility and insufficient thermal stability of microcapsules continue to pose challenges for long‐term storage, processing, and service in practical applications. Here, an easily modifiable and highly versatile method is reported for preparing various chemicals filled poly(urea‐formaldehyde) microcapsules that exhibit superior tightness against solvents and heat and that possess widely tunable, repetitiously self‐restorable, and solvent‐proof superhydrophobicity. In addition, the low‐cost fabrication of biomimetic multifunctional smart coatings is demonstrated for self‐healing anticorrosion and self‐cleaning antifouling applications by directly dispersing the superhydrophobic microcapsules into and onto a polymer matrix. The methodology presented in this study should inspire the development of multifunctional intelligent materials for applications in related fields.
Asymmetric Alkynylative Ring Opening Reaction of Oxabenzonorbornadienes Promoted by Palladium/Silver Cocatalytic System
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Li Sifeng , Chen Hualei , Yang Qingjing , Xu Jianbin , Zhou Yongyun , Yuan Minglong , Zeng Weimin , Fan Baomin
Published: August 2014

The combination of palladium(II) acetate/(R)‐xylyl‐Phanephos and silver triflate (Pd:Ag=1:1) was found to be an efficient catalytic system for the asymmetric ring opening reactions of oxabenzonorbornadienes with terminal alkynes. The products were typically afforded in good yields (up to 95% yield) and with high enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee).

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ansa‐Ruthenium(II) Complexes of DPEN‐SO2N(Me)(CH2)n(η6‐aryl) Conjugate Ligands for Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Aryl Ketones
Authors: Kišić Andrea , Stephan Michel , Mohar Barbara
Published: August 2014

A diversified ansa‐ruthenium(II) catalyst series 1b–f displaying enantiopure N,C‐(N‐alkylene‐N‐methylsulfamoyl)‐tethered (DPEN‐κ2N,N′)/η6‐arene (DPEN=trans‐1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine) hybrid ligands was screened in the transfer hydrogenation of alkyl aryl ketones, and α‐ or β‐diketones in formic acid‐triethylamine (HCO2H‐Et3N) medium under mild conditions and furnished the alcohols in high to excellent ees.

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Chemical Copolymerization and Characterization of Colloidal Poly(aniline‐co‐3‐aminobenzoic acid) as a High‐Performance Antibacterial Polymer
Authors: Lashkenari Mohammad Soleimani , Eisazadeh Hossein
Published: August 2014

Polyaniline (PAn) and copolymer of aniline with 3‐amino benzoic acid was synthesized by dispersion polymerization in the presence of ammonium peroxydisulfate as an oxidant and hydroxypropylcellulose as a stabilizer. The product polymers were characterized by a number of techniques including UV–vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The prepared polymer was then tested for the antibacterial properties against Gram‐negative bacteria; (E. coli (PTCC 1398) and P. aeruginosa (PTCC 1310)) and Gram‐positive bacteria (S. aureus (ATCC 25923)). The antibacterial properties were assessed by the disk diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The results clearly showed that colloidal PAn strongly inhibits the growth of wild‐type E. coli (19 ± 0.5 mm) followed by P. aeruginosa (17 ± 0.5 mm) and S. aureus (17 ± 0.5 mm) bacteria. Poly(aniline‐co‐3‐aminobenzoic acid) (PAn3ABA) in comparison with the pristine PAn showed moderate antibacterial activity against E. coli (11 ± 0.5 mm) followed by P. aeruginosa (10 ± 0.5 mm) and S. aureus (7 ± 0.5 mm). It was found that the MIC values of colloidal PAn and PAn3ABA against E. coli were 0.62 and 1.25 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, the MBC value of colloidal PAn and PAn3ABA against E. coli was of same value (1.25 mg/mL).
Mood, behavior, testosterone, cortisol, and interleukin‐6 in adults during immune activation: A pilot study to assess sickness behaviors in humans
Authors: Shattuck Eric C. , Muehlenbein Michael P.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

Sickness behavior, a suite of behavioral changes subsequent to infection that includes depression, decreased social behaviors, and sleep disturbances, has been well described in model organisms. The phenomenon is relatively unexplored in humans due to methodological difficulties, and hormonal correlates of sickness behavior have not been studied. We therefore attempted to use a vaccine to elicit sickness behaviors outside of a clinical setting and uncover any correlations among testosterone, cortisol, and sickness behavior.

Methods

Eleven participants (five male, six female, mean age 22.8 years) naïve to the rabies vaccine were recruited from the School of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University. Participants provided daily saliva and urine samples and completed questionnaires to assess mood and social behaviors for a period of 6 weeks. Saliva samples were assayed for cortisol and testosterone. Urine samples were assayed for interleukin‐6 and creatinine.

Results

Analysis revealed an expected decrease in testosterone and an increase in cortisol. While mood did not differ, other behaviors, such as physical activity and hours slept, showed expected changes following vaccination. However, none of these results achieved statistical significance.

Conclusion

Our results, while generally confirming previous research on sickness behavior and hormone changes during infection, are suggestive, but not statistically significant and so neither confirm nor contradict our hypotheses. We attribute this lack of significance to both the small sample size, as well as possible confounding factors, including the psychosocial stress of entering an intensive study program. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 27:133–135, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comparison of the long‐term results of crushing and crushing with intrinsic stripping techniques in concha bullosa surgery
Authors: Eren Sabri Baki , Kocak Ilker , Dogan Remzi , Ozturan Orhan , Yildirim Yavuz Selim , Tugrul Selahattin
Published: August 2014

Background

A prospective endoscopic and radiologic evaluation of long‐term outcomes of crushing and crushing with intrinsic stripping, 2 minimally destructive techniques used for the surgical treatment of concha bullosa.

Methods

Forty‐two patients who underwent concha bullosa surgery (a total of 55 conchae surgeries) were included in the study. The patients were allocated consecutively to either of the 2 groups: Group 1 (crushing, n = 28) and Group 2 (crushing with intrinsic stripping, n = 27). All procedures were performed endoscopically. The presurgical and 1‐year postsurgical endoscopic nasal cavity images and computed tomography (CT) scans of all patients were recorded. Preoperative and postoperative measurements were compared using paired t test and Student t test.

Results

Gender and mean age of the 42 patients (55 conchae bullosa) were as follows: 23 males, mean age 25.6 (range, 18 to 41) years; 18 females, mean age 24.2 (range, 18 to 33) years. The patients were followed for 12.5 ± 1.3 months. Comparisons of both the grading of endoscopic images and the concha bullosa volumes measured in CT images before and after treatment showed significant postsurgical reductions in both groups; comparison between groups showed significant postsurgical decreases for Group 2 in both concha bullosa volumes and in endoscopic scoring (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Crushing with intrinsic stripping is an effective and easy technique; when compared to crushing alone; this technique provides a significantly more decrease in middle concha volumes as demonstrated both by the CT and by endoscopic evaluations.
P‐glycoprotein inhibition promotes prednisone retention in human sinonasal polyp explants
Authors: Kocharyan Armine , Feldman Rachel , Singleton Amy , Han Xue , Bleier Benjamin S.
Published: August 2014

Background

P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) is an efflux pump, which is part of the innate chemo‐immunity defense system and is overexpressed in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). P‐gp is capable of regulating corticosteroid retention and thus P‐gp upregulation has been implicated in steroid resistance in several inflammatory disorders. The goal of this study is to determine whether P‐gp regulates intracellular steroid retention in CRSwNP.

Methods

This was a Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved study in nasal polyp explants. Polyps were exposed to 50 μg/mL of prednisone for 30 minutes with or without the presence of a P‐gp inhibitor (Verapamil 12.5 μM or Zosuquidar 0.31 μM) followed by a 40‐minute washout period (n = 16 per group). Intracellular steroid retention was determined by quantifying the concentration of both intracytoplasmic and secreted steroid using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Concentrations relative to control were compared using a Student t test.

Results

The intracytoplasmic prednisone concentration was significantly greater relative to control following P‐gp inhibition with Verapamil (155.28% ± 22.48%, p < 0.05) and Zosuquidar (125.81% ± 12.41%, p < 0.05). Similarly, the amount of prednisone secreted by the explant was significantly reduced at 30 minutes following P‐gp inhibition with Zosuquidar (78.64% ± 2.98%, p < 0.05) and 40 minutes following P‐gp inhibition with Verapamil (80.56% ± 5.02%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Inhibition of P‐gp enhances the intracellular accumulation of prednisone in nasal polyps. This suggests that P‐gp participates in regulation of glucocorticoid retention in sinonasal mucosa. These findings, coupled with the known overexpression of P‐gp in CRSwNP, may point to a possible mechanism for steroid resistance in this patient population.
Dying neurons in thalamus of asphyxiated term newborns and rats are autophagic
Authors: Ginet Vanessa , Pittet Marie P. , Rummel Coralie , Osterheld Maria Chiara , Meuli Reto , Clarke Peter G. H. , Puyal Julien , Truttmann Anita C.
Published: August 2014

Objective

Neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) still carries a high burden by its mortality and long‐term neurological morbidity in survivors. Apart from hypothermia, there is no acknowledged therapy for HIE, reflecting the lack of mechanistic understanding of its pathophysiology. (Macro)autophagy, a physiological intracellular process of lysosomal degradation, has been proposed to be excessively activated in excitotoxic conditions such as HIE. The present study examines whether neuronal autophagy in the thalamus of asphyxiated human newborns or P7 rats is enhanced and related to neuronal death processes.

Methods

Neuronal autophagy and cell death were evaluated in the thalamus (frequently injured in severe HIE) of both human newborns who died after severe HIE (n = 5) and P7 hypoxic–ischemic rats (Rice–Vannuci model). Autophagic (LC3, p62), lysosomal (LAMP1, cathepsins), and cell death (TUNEL, caspase‐3) markers were studied by immunohistochemistry in human and rat brain sections, and by additional methods in rats (immunoblotting, histochemistry, and electron microscopy).

Results

Following severe perinatal asphyxia in both humans and rats, thalamic neurons displayed up to 10‐fold (p < 0.001) higher numbers of autophagosomes and lysosomes, implying an enhanced autophagic flux. The highly autophagic neurons presented strong features of apoptosis. These findings were confirmed and elucidated in more detail in rats.

Interpretation

These results show for the first time that autophagy is enhanced in severe HIE in dying thalamic neurons of human newborns, as in rats. Experimental neuroprotective strategies targeting autophagy could thus be a promising lead to follow for the development of future therapeutic approaches. Ann Neurol 2014;76:695–711
Enantioselektive allylische Hydroxylierung von ω‐Alkensäuren und ‐estern mittels der P450‐BM3‐Monooxygenase
Authors: Neufeld Katharina , Henßen Birgit , Pietruszka Jörg
Published: August 2014

Chirale Allylalkohole der ω‐Alkensäuren und entsprechende Derivate sind essentielle Bausteine für die Synthese biologisch aktiver Verbindungen. Die direkte enantioselektive C‐H‐Oxidation von linearen terminalen Olefinen ermöglicht den effizientesten Zugang zu diesen Strukturen. Synthetische Methoden für diese Umsetzungen stehen jedoch nur begrenzt zur Verfügung und liefern unzureichende Selektivitäten. Hier wird ein enzymatischer Ansatz zu diesen interessanten Zielverbindungen mittels der P450‐BM3‐Monooxygenase vorgestellt, der allylische Hydroxylierungen mit hohen bis exzellenten Chemo‐ und Enantioselektivitäten ermöglicht.