bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Warfarin Dose in Pediatric Patients: An Evaluation of the Predictive Performance of Several Models
Authors: Marek Elizabeth , Momper Jeremiah D. , Hines Ronald N. , Takao Cheryl M. , Gill Joan C. , Pravica Vera , Gaedigk Andrea , Burckart Gilbert J. , Neville Kathleen A.
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of pediatric pharmacogenetic-based dose prediction models by using an independent cohort of pediatric patients from a multicenter trial.

METHODS: Clinical and genetic data (CYP2C9 [cytochrome P450 2C9] and VKORC1 [vitamin K epoxide reductase]) were collected from pediatric patients aged 3 months to 17 years who were receiving warfarin as part of standard care at 3 separate clinical sites. The accuracy of 8 previously published pediatric pharmacogenetic-based dose models was evaluated in the validation cohort by comparing predicted maintenance doses to actual stable warfarin doses. The predictive ability was assessed by using the proportion of variance (R2), mean prediction error (MPE), and the percentage of predictions that fell within 20% of the actual maintenance dose.

RESULTS: Thirty-two children reached a stable international normalized ratio and were included in the validation cohort. The pharmacogenetic-based warfarin dose models showed a proportion of variance ranging from 35% to 78% and an MPE ranging from −2.67 to 0.85 mg/day in the validation cohort. Overall, the model developed by Hamberg et al showed the best performance in the validation cohort (R2 = 78%; MPE = 0.15 mg/day) with 38% of the predictions falling within 20% of observed doses.

CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacogenetic-based algorithms provide better predictions than a fixed-dose approach, although an optimal dose algorithm has not yet been developed.
Comparison of Two High-Dose Magnesium Infusion Regimens in the Treatment of Status Asthmaticus
Authors: Vaiyani Danish , Irazuzta Jose E.
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVES: To determine the feasibility and safety of a simplified high-dose magnesium sulfate infusion (sHDMI) for the treatment of status asthmaticus.

METHODS: We retrospectively compared 2 different high-dose magnesium sulfate infusion regimens, as adjunctive treatment in status asthmatics, using data that were preciously collected. The initial high-dose, prolonged magnesium infusion (HDMI) regimen consisted of a loading dose of 75 mg/kg (weight ≤ 30 kg) or 50 mg/kg (weight > 30 kg) over a period of 30 to 45 minutes followed by a continuous infusion of 40 mg/kg/hr for an additional 4 hours. This was compared to the sHDMI regimen that consisted of 50 mg/kg/hr for 5 hours. No loading dose was given to the patients in the sHDMI arm. Obese patients were dosed by using ideal body weight. Physiologic parameters (i.e., heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation) and serum magnesium (SrMg) concentrations were monitored during administration of magnesium sulfate.

RESULTS: Nineteen patients receiving the initial HDMI regimen were compared with 10 patients who received the sHDMI regimen. There was no significant difference in SrMg concentrations or physiologic parameters between the 2 dose regimens.

CONCLUSIONS: The HDMI and sHDMI regimens both produced SrMg concentrations that are associated with bronchodilation. The safety profile was also similar for the 2 regimens. The unambiguity of sHDMI has the potential to reduce medication errors that are associated with calculation of the loading dose, product preparation, and ultimate administration.
GESTÃO DA TECNOLOGIA BANCÁRIA: UM ESTUDO DE CASO NO BANRISUL
Authors: Loss Cíntia , Colombelli Gilmar Luiz , Porto Adriana , Lorenzi Junior David , Beltrame Gabriela
Published: July 2016

O setor bancário é considerado o ramo da economia que mais tem investido em Tecnologia da Informação (TI), tendo grande parte de seus produtos e serviços dependentes da tecnologia. Conhecer os investimentos em TI e o impacto que ela proporciona é uma questão importante para os bancos, pois atuam em um ambiente extremamente competitivo. Dessa forma, este estudo tem por objetivo descrever de que forma a Tecnologia da Informação influencia no processo de gestão do Banrisul, instituição alvo da pesquisa. Os resultados apontaram o potencial que a Tecnologia da Informação tem em sustentar estratégias de sucesso organizacional, centrado na capacidade de os gestores em perceber o valor e os impactos dos investimentos em TI para negócios. As conclusões destacam que a tecnologia auxilia no suporte à tomada de decisão, concentrando-se em análise de dados financeiros para gerenciar os negócios, além de despontar como um forte indicador de melhoria na performance e na produtividade da instituição.
Working From the Nation's Capital to Protect Our Waters
Authors: Roberson J. Alan
Published: July 2016

Working in the Washington, D.C., area on water policy involves collaboration, flexibility, and, most of all, trust and respect not only for the process, but also for the people.
Ride Like Paul Would
Authors: LaFrance David B.
Published: July 2016

There are a few common beliefs and understandings that are important to keep in mind as we ride together to a solution. First, protecting public health by delivering safe drinking water is, always has been, and always will be our highest goal. It is the ultimate purpose for our daily work. Second, replacing lead service lines will take time to implement, which means that corrosion control remains key to managing lead levels in drinking water. Third, even after lead service lines are replaced, corrosion control will continue to be important because many homes will continue to have sources of lead in their plumbing. Fourth, local circumstances will differ, and as a result, there is no one‐size‐fits‐all solution for resolving concerns about financing lead service line replacements and ownership issues. And finally, this is a community issue, and there are many parties who must collaborate on solutions. Certainly the water sector has a significant role, but so do property owners, nongovernmental organizations, and government at all levels.
Water's Workforce
Authors: Mercer Kenneth L.
Published: July 2016

Finding, training, and retaining a customer‐focused workforce is a challenge for the water industry, particularly for small systems with limited resources. Given the industry's focus on public health, water and wastewater utilities must perform in a fashion that promotes community cohesion and builds trust. Well‐trained and responsible staff are the frontline in meeting these objectives, hence the constant need to attract and retain the very best.
Limited accessibility to HIV services for persons with disabilities living with HIV in Ghana, Uganda and Zambia
Authors: Tun Waimar , Okal Jerry , Schenk Katie , Esantsi Selina , Mutale Felix , Kyeremaa Rita Kusi , Ngirabakunzi Edson , Asiah Hilary , McClain‐Nhlapo Charlotte , Moono Grimond
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Knowledge about experiences in accessing HIV services among persons with disabilities who are living with HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa is limited. Although HIV transmission among persons with disabilities in Africa is increasingly acknowledged, there is a need to bring to life the experiences and voices from persons with disabilities living with HIV to raise awareness of programme implementers and policy makers about their barriers in accessing HIV services. This paper explores how the barriers faced by persons with disabilities living with HIV impede their ability to access HIV‐related services and manage their disease.

Methods

We conducted focus group discussions with 76 persons (41 females; 35 males) with physical, visual and/or hearing impairments who were living with HIV in Ghana, Uganda and Zambia (2012–2013). We explored challenges and facilitators at different levels (individual, psychosocial and structural) of access to HIV services. Transcripts were analyzed using a framework analysis approach.

Results

Persons with disabilities living with HIV encountered a wide variety of challenges in accessing HIV services. Delays in testing for HIV were common, with most waiting until they were sick to be tested. Reasons for delayed testing included challenges in getting to the health facilities, lack of information about HIV and testing, and HIV‐ and disability‐related stigma. Barriers to HIV‐related services, including care and treatment, at health facilities included lack of disability‐friendly educational materials and sign interpreters, stigmatizing treatment by providers and other patients, lack of skills to provide tailored services to persons with disabilities living with HIV and physically inaccessible infrastructure, all of which make it extremely difficult for persons with disabilities to initiate and adhere to HIV treatment. Accessibility challenges were greater for women than men due to gender‐related roles. Challenges were similar across the three countries. Favourable experiences in accessing HIV services were reported in Uganda and Zambia, where disability‐tailored services were offered by non‐governmental organizations and government facilities (Uganda only).

Conclusions

Persons with disabilities living with HIV encounter many challenges in accessing HIV testing and continued care and treatment services. Changes are needed at every level to ensure accessibility of HIV services for persons with disabilities.
Assessment of linkages from HIV testing to enrolment and retention in HIV care in Central Mozambique
Authors: Inguane Celso Azarias , Gloyd Stephen , Manuel João Luis , Brown Charlene , Wong Vincent , Augusto Orvalho , Hassan Wisal Mustafa , Vieira Lúcia , Afonso Pires , Jamnadás Mehol , Bernard Jama Joy , Cowan James , Kalibala Samuel , Pfeiffer James
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Effectiveness of the rapid expansion of antiretroviral therapy (ART) throughout sub‐Saharan Africa is highly dependent on adequate enrolment and retention in HIV care. However, the measurement of both has been challenging in these settings. This study aimed to assess enrolment and retention in HIV care (pre‐ART and ART) among HIV‐positive adults in Central Mozambique, including identification of barriers and facilitators.

Methods

We assessed linkages to and retention in HIV care using a mixed quantitative and qualitative approach in six districts of Manica and Sofala provinces. We analyzed routine district and health facility monthly reports and HIV care registries from April 2012 to March 2013 and used single imputation and trimmed means to adjust for missing values. In eight health facilities in the same districts and period, we assessed retention in HIV care among 795 randomly selected adult patient charts (15 years and older). We also conducted 25 focus group discussions and 53 in‐depth interviews with HIV‐positive adults, healthcare providers and community members to identify facilitators and barriers to enrolment and retention in HIV care.

Results

Overall, 46% of the monthly HIV testing reports expected at the district level were missing, compared to 6.4% of the pre‐ART registry reports. After adjustment for missing values, we estimated that the aggregate numbers of adults registered in pre‐ART was 75% of the number of persons tested HIV‐positive in the six districts. In the eight health facilities, 40% of the patient charts for adults enrolled in pre‐ART and 44% in ART were missing. Of those on ART for whom charts were found, retention in treatment within 90 and 60 days prior to the study team visit was 34 and 25%, respectively. Combining these multiple data sources, the overall estimated retention was 18% in our sample. Individual‐level factors were perceived to be key influences to enrolment in HIV care, while health facility and structural‐level factors were perceived to be key influences of retention.

Conclusions

Efforts to increase linkages to and retention in HIV care should address individual, health facility, and structural‐level factors in Central Mozambique. However, their outcomes cannot be reliably assessed without improving the quality of routine health information systems.
Persistent neural activity in auditory cortex is related to auditory working memory in humans and nonhuman primates
Authors: Huang Ying , Matysiak Artur , Heil Peter , König Reinhard , Brosch Michael
Published: July 2016

Working memory is the cognitive capacity of short-term storage of information for goal-directed behaviors. Where and how this capacity is implemented in the brain are unresolved questions. We show that auditory cortex stores information by persistent changes of neural activity. We separated activity related to working memory from activity related to other mental processes by having humans and monkeys perform different tasks with varying working memory demands on the same sound sequences. Working memory was reflected in the spiking activity of individual neurons in auditory cortex and in the activity of neuronal populations, that is, in local field potentials and magnetic fields. Our results provide direct support for the idea that temporary storage of information recruits the same brain areas that also process the information. Because similar activity was observed in the two species, the cellular bases of some auditory working memory processes in humans can be studied in monkeys.
Scanning quantum dot microscopy: A quantitative method to measure local electrostatic potential near surfaces
Authors: Green Matthew F. B. , Wagner Christian , Leinen Philipp , Deilmann Thorsten , Krüger Peter , Rohlfing Michael , Tautz F. Stefan , Temirov Ruslan
Published: July 2016

In this paper we review a recently introduced microscopy technique, scanning quantum dot microscopy (SQDM), which delivers quantitative maps of local electrostatic potential near surfaces in three dimensions. The key to achieving SQDM imaging is the functionalization of a scanning probe microscope tip with a π-conjugated molecule that acts as a gateable QD. Mapping of electrostatic potential with SQDM is performed by gating the QD by the bias voltage applied to the scanning probe microscope junction and registering changes of the QD charge state with frequency-modulated atomic force microscopy.
Evolutionary relationships within the lamioid tribe Synandreae (Lamiaceae) based on multiple low-copy nuclear loci
Authors: Roy Tilottama , Catlin Nathan S. , Garner Drake M.G. , Cantino Philip D. , Scheen Anne-Cathrine , Lindqvist Charlotte
Published: July 2016

The subfamily Lamioideae (Lamiaceae) comprises ten tribes, of which only Stachydeae and Synandreae include New World members. Previous studies have investigated the phylogenetic relationships among the members of Synandreae based on plastid and nuclear ribosomal DNA loci. In an effort to re-examine the phylogenetic relationships within Synandreae, the current study incorporates data from four low-copy nuclear loci,PHOT1,PHOT2,COR, andPPR. Our results confirm previous studies based on chloroplast and nuclear ribosomal markers in supporting the monophyly of tribe Synandreae, as well as sister relationships betweenBrazoriaandWarnockia, and between that pair of genera and a monophyleticPhysostegia. However, we observe incongruence in the relationships ofMacbrideaandSynandra. The placement of Synandreae within Lamioideae is poorly resolved and incongruent among different analyses, and the sister group of Synandreae remains enigmatic. Comparison of the colonization and migration patterns corroborates a single colonization of the New World by Synandreae during the Late Miocene/Tortonian age. This is in contrast to the only other lamioid tribe that includes New World members, Stachydeae, which colonized the New World at least twice—during the mid-Miocene and Pliocene. Edaphic conditions and intolerance of soil acidity may be factors that restricted the distribution of most genera of Synandreae to southeastern and south–central North America, whereas polyploidy could have increased the colonizing capability of the more wide-ranging genus,Physostegia.
Storm‐driven bottom sediment transport on a high‐energy narrow shelf (NW Iberia) and development of mud depocenters
Authors: Zhang Wenyan , Cui Yongsheng , Santos Ana I. , Hanebuth Till J. J.
Published: July 2016

Bottom sediment transport on the NW Iberian shelf was monitored during a downwelling storm in September 2014. Collected data were analyzed and fed into a 3‐D coastal ocean model to understand storm‐driven sediment transport on the shelf and its impact on midshelf mud depocenters (MDCs). A significantly enhanced level of bottom sediment resuspension, nearly two orders of magnitude higher than that in the prestorm period, was recorded at the mooring site. Field data analysis reveals that it was induced by a short‐lasting strong bottom current in combination with enhanced wave‐current interaction. Simulation results indicate that this strong current was part of a coastal jet resulted from downwelling. An across‐shelf horizontal density gradient as high as 0.32 g/m4occurred at the interface between the downwelling and the bottom waters, forming a remarkable front. Due to buoyancy effect, the downwelling water was mostly confined to the coast with a depth limit of 80 m in the south and 120 m in the north of the region, resulting in a northward‐directed coastal jet. Simulation results suggest that during the storm, local near‐bottom sediment suspensions with concentrations on the order of 10 kg/m3would be triggered by wave‐current interaction and flow convergence associated with the front. Direct impact on the development of MDCs by transport and deposition of concentrated sediment suspensions is indicated by model results. The seaward limit of the front coincided with the shoreward edge of the MDC nucleus, suggesting the front as a primary control on the deposition of fine‐grained sediment.
Regional groundwater flow and accumulation of a massive evaporite deposit at the margin of the Chilean Altiplano
Authors: Corenthal Lilly G. , Boutt David F. , Hynek Scott A. , Munk Lee Ann
Published: July 2016

Focused groundwater discharge in closed basins provides opportunities to investigate mechanisms for closing hydrologic and solute budgets in arid regions. The Salar de Atacama (SdA), adjacent to the Central Andean Plateau in the hyperarid Atacama Desert, provides an extreme example of halite (>1800 km3) and lithium brine (~5000 ppm) accumulation spanning late Miocene to present. Minimum long‐term water discharge needed to sustain halite accumulation over this timescale at SdA is 9–20 times greater than modern recharge (and double wet‐climate paleorecharge) within the topographic watershed. Closing this imbalance requires sourcing water from recharge on the orogenic plateau in an area over 4 times larger than the topographic watershed. Prolonged water discharge at SdA requires long residence times, deep water tables in recharge zones coupled with persistent near‐surface water tables in discharge areas, and large contributing areas characterized by strong gradients in landscape and climate resulting from plateau uplift.
A multiple sclerosis‐like disorder in patients with OPA1 mutations
Authors: Yu‐Wai‐Man Patrick , Spyropoulos Achillefs , Duncan Holly J. , Guadagno Joseph V. , Chinnery Patrick F.
Published: July 2016

We describe three unrelated patients presenting with a spinal cord syndrome and neuroimaging features consistent with multiple sclerosis (MS). All harbored a pathogenic OPA1 mutation. Although the neurological phenotype resembled neuromyelitis optica (NMO), anti‐aquaporin 4 antibodies were not detected and the disorder followed a slow progressive course. The coincidental occurrence of OPA1 mutations and an MS‐like disorder is likely to have modulated the phenotypic manifestations of both disorders, but unlike the previously reported association of Leber hereditary optic neuropathy and MS (Harding disease), the optic neuropathy in patients with OPA1 mutations and an MS‐like disorder can be mild with a good visual prognosis.
Experimental operation of a reactive dividing wall column and comparison with simulation results
Authors: Ehlers Christoph , Egger Torben , Fieg Georg
Published: July 2016

Reactive dividing wall columns (RDWC) are a special type of distillation column that allow for the targeted realization of chemical reactions and the separation into multiple product fractions in one shell. However, despite their huge economical and ecological potentials for certain fields of application, this innovative technology has not found its way into industrial production processes yet. The very limited availability of experimental research studies verifying the prediction capabilities of respective modeling concepts for this type of distillation column might be one decisive reason for that. Therefore, the present study puts its focus on the detailed comparison between experimental operation of RDWC and the corresponding simulation results for steady‐state. For the first time, the mentioned comparison is carried out for a chemical system with non‐negligible side reactions. It is shown that even for this highly complex system, the mathematical model is capable of predicting the column operation. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 1036–1050, 2017
New diagnostic criteria for neurocysticercosis: Reliability and validity
Authors: Carpio Arturo , Fleury Agnès , Romo Matthew L. , Abraham Ronaldo , Fandiño Jaime , Durán Juan C. , Cárdenas Graciela , Moncayo Jorge , Leite Rodrigues Cleonísio , San‐Juan Daniel , Serrano‐Dueñas Marcos , Takayanagui Oswaldo , Sander Josemir W.
Published: July 2016

Objective

The diagnosis of neurocysticercosis (NCC) remains problematic because of the heterogeneity of its clinical, immunological, and imaging characteristics. Our aim was to develop and assess a new set of diagnostic criteria for NCC, which might allow for the accurate detection of, and differentiation between, parenchymal and extraparenchymal disease.

Methods

A group of Latin American NCC experts developed by consensus a new set of diagnostic criteria for NCC. A multicenter, retrospective study was then conducted to validate it. The reference standard for diagnosis of active NCC was the disappearance or reduction of cysts after anthelmintic treatment. In total, three pairs of independent neurologists blinded to the diagnosis evaluated 93 cases (with NCC) and 93 controls (without NCC) using the new diagnostic criteria. Mixed‐effects logistic regression models were used to estimate sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Inter‐rater reliability (kappa) of diagnosis among evaluators was 0.60. For diagnosis of NCC versus no NCC, the new criteria had a sensitivity of 93.2% and specificity of 81.4%. For parenchymal NCC, the new criteria had a sensitivity of 89.8% and specificity of 80.7% and for extraparenchymal NCC, the new criteria had a sensitivity of 65.9% and specificity of 94.9%.

Interpretation

These criteria have acceptable reliability and validity and could be a new tool for clinicians and researchers. An advantage of the new criteria is that they consider parasite location (ie, parenchymal or extraparenchymal), which is an important factor determining the clinical, immunological, and radiological presentation of the disease, and importantly, its treatment and prognosis. Ann Neurol 2016;80:434–442
Synthesis of α‐Fluoroketones by Insertion of HF into a Gold Carbene
Authors: Zeng Xiaojun , Liu Shiwen , Shi Zhenyu , Liu Guangchang , Xu Bo
Published: July 2016

Reported is an efficient synthesis of α‐fluoroketones by insertion of hydrogen fluoride (HF) into the gold carbene intermediate, generated from a cationic gold catalyzed addition of N‐oxides to alkynes. This method results in excellent chemical yields for a wide range of alkyne substrates and demonstrates good functional‐group tolerance.
In Situ Activating Ubiquitous Rust towards Low‐Cost, Efficient, Free‐Standing, and Recoverable Oxygen Evolution Electrodes
Authors: Zhong Haixia , Wang Jun , Meng Fanlu , Zhang Xinbo
Published: July 2016

Developing effective ways to recycle rusted stainless steel and to promote the sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER), associated with water splitting and metal–air batteries, is important for a resource‐sustainable and environment‐friendly society. Herein, we propose a strategy to enable rusted stainless steel plate to be used as an abundant and low‐cost OER catalyst, wherein a hydrothermal combined in situ electrochemical oxidation–reduction cycle (EORC) method is developed to mimic and expedite the corrosion process, and thus activate stainless steel into free‐standing OER electrodes. Benefiting from the plentiful electrolyte‐accessible Fe/(Ni) oxyhydroxides, high conductivity and mechanical stability, this electrode exhibits remarkable OER performances including low overpotential, fast kinetics, and long‐term durability. The slight degradation in current after long‐term use can be repaired immediately in situ by an EORC.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed C−H Thiolation through Dehydrogenative Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Gensch Tobias , Klauck Felix J. R. , Glorius Frank
Published: July 2016

A cobalt‐catalyzed dehydrogenative cross‐coupling of thiols and indoles is reported. Using a cooperative reaction system, a new mode of action for the cobalt‐catalyzed C−heteroatom bond formation was found. The directed C−H activation catalysis overrides an undirected thiolation of indole in the 3‐position that occurs in the absence of cobalt. Mechanistic studies indicate a sequence of C−H activation, thiolate transfer, and reductive elimination.
Mixed Aggregates of the Dilithiated Koga Tetraamine: NMR Spectroscopic and Computational Studies
Authors: Ma Yun , Mack Kyle A. , Liang Jun , Keresztes Ivan , Collum David B. , Zakarian Armen
Published: July 2016

A combination of 1H, 6Li, 13C, and 15N NMR spectroscopies and density functional theory computations explores the formation of mixed aggregates by a dilithium salt of a C2‐symmetric chiral tetraamine (Koga's base). Lithium halides, acetylides, alkoxides, and monoalkylamides form isostructural trilithiated mixed aggregates with few exceptions. 6Li–13C and 6Li–15N couplings reveal heretofore undetected transannular contacts (laddering) with lithium acetylides and lithium monoalkylamides. Marked temperature‐dependent 15N chemical shifts seem to be associated with this laddering. Computational studies shed light on the general structures of the aggregates, their penchant for laddering, and the stereochemical consequences of aggregation.
Terephthalic acid derived ligand‐stabilized palladium nanocomposite catalyst for Heck coupling reaction: without surface‐modified heterogeneous catalyst
Authors: K. S. Jithendra kumara , G. Krishnamurthy , B. E. Kumara swamy , N. D. Shashi kumar , Naik Satish , B. S. Krishna , Naik Nagaraj
Published: July 2016

A new protocol is reported for the synthesis of a heterogeneous palladium nanocomposite stabilized with a terephthalic acid‐derived ligand (N,N‐bis(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzylidene)terephthalohydrazide). This is a highly insoluble ligand in common organic solvents, except dimethylformamide and dimethylsulfoxide. The resulting palladium nanocomposite acts as an efficient catalyst precursor for Mizoroki–Heck coupling reactions conducted under various reaction conditions. The spectral data suggest that the rate, yield and recycling of the catalyst are more effective for C–C coupling reactions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystallinity Modulation of Layered Carbon Nitride for Enhanced Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Wang Jianhai , Shen Yanfei , Li Ying , Liu Songqin , Zhang Yuanjian
Published: July 2016

As an emerging metal‐free semiconductor, covalently bonded carbon nitride (CN) has attracted much attention in photocatalysis. However, drawbacks such as a high recombination rate of excited electrons and holes hinder its potential applications. Tailoring the crystallinity of semiconductors is an important way to suppress unwanted charge recombination, but has rarely been applied to CN so far. Herein, a simple method to synthesize CN of high crystallinity by protonation of specific intermediate species during conventional polymerization is reported. Interestingly, the as‐obtained CN exhibited improved photocatalytic activities of up to seven times those of the conventional bulk CN. This approach, with only a slight change to the conventional method, provides a facile way to effectively regulate the crystallinity of bulk CN to improve its photocatalytic activities and sheds light on large‐scale industrial applications of CN with high efficiency for sustainable energy.
Adsorption Study of Arsenic Removal by Novel Hybrid Copper Impregnated Tufa Adsorbents in a Batch System
Authors: Bajić Zoran J. , Veličković Zlate S. , Djokić Veljko R. , Perić‐Grujić Aleksandra A. , Ersen Ovidiu , Uskoković Petar S. , Marinković Aleksandar D.
Published: July 2016

Performance of a novel adsorbent, copper impregnated natural mineral tufa (T–Cu), applicable for efficient arsenic removal is presented in this study. Testing of adsorbent properties encompassed material characterization and equilibrium study in a batch system. Copper modification contributed to increased adsorption capacities, that is, from 4.65 to 67.83 mg g−1 for As(III), and from 6.84 to 104.62 mg g−1 for As(V), comparing to unmodified tufa. The obtained thermodynamic data indicated higher feasibility and spontaneity of the adsorption process at higher temperature. A competitive study in a multi‐component system showed that T–Cu adsorbents effectively removed arsenic species at high concentrations of interfering ions. The high adsorption capacity and multi‐cycle reusability gave positive techno‐economic indicators in comparison to commercial adsorbents.
Chemical and in vitro characterizations of a promising bimodal AGuIX probe able to target apoptotic cells for applications in MRI and optical imaging
Authors: Dentamaro Mario , Lux François , Vander Elst Luce , Dauguet Nicolas , Montante Sylvie , Moussaron Albert , Burtea Carmen , Muller Robert N. , Tillement Olivier , Laurent Sophie
Published: July 2016

Different studies on AGuIX nanoparticles have been achieved in the biomedical domain, showing that they allow us to combine multimodal and theranostic properties in oncology. The targeting of apoptotic cells presents a wide range of biomedical applications, including the monitoring of antitumoral therapy and the diagnosis of diseases related to this process, such as atherosclerosis, ischemia, chronic inflammation or autoimmune disorders. AGuIX nanoparticles functionalized with a peptide that recognizes apoptotic cells and with organic fluorophores were characterized by several physicochemical and biological methods such as HPLC, relaxometry and photon correlation spectroscopy, which attested to their potential as bimodal tracers detected by optical imaging and MRI. An increase of relaxivity and stability of AGuIX nanoparticles is also observed after their vectorization. The biological efficiency of this novel bimodal probe to target apoptotic cells was evaluated by fluorescence microscopy, relaxometry, MRI and flow cytometry on a lymphoblastic human T‐cell line. In vitro cell apoptosis was chemically induced by incubation with camptothecin. Our in vitro experiments showed a significant specificity of vectorized AGuIX nanoparticles for camptothecin‐treated cells that suggests their potential efficiency as probes to target apoptosis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characteristics of Lymphoproliferative Disorders with More Than One Aberrant Cell Population as Detected by 10‐Color Flow Cytometry
Authors: Mahdi Talal , Rajab Amr , Padmore Ruth , Porwit Anna
Published: July 2016

Background

We have evaluated the frequency of lymphoproliferative disorders with more than one aberrant population of monotypic B‐cells detected during routine hematopathological diagnostics.

Materials and Methods

2600 samples peripheral (blood, bone marrow, fine‐needle aspirate, lymph node, and pleural fluid cell suspensions) were analyzed using a 10‐color B‐cell panel and a 10‐color T‐cell panel. A 10‐color plasma cell/lymphoplasmacytic panel was performed when appropriate.

Results

790/2600 samples (30%) showed at least one aberrant B‐cell population and 27(1%) showed an aberrant T‐cell population. 41/790 samples (5.1%) showed two aberrant B‐cell populations. Thirteen patients had two B‐cell populations with different surface immunoglobulin restriction (one kappa+ and one lambda+), most with B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia‐related phenotype. Five cases showed two B‐cell populations with the same light chain restriction but distinctly different immunophenotypes. In 23 cases, two populations had the same light chain restriction and differed by expression of one or 2 markers, thus, a possibility of intraclonal differentiation could not be excluded. Cases with possible intraclonal differentiation had a significantly higher proportion of aberrant B‐cells than those with two coexisting aberrant B‐cell populations (49.9% vs. 27.7%, p = 0.008). In only one sample one population of clonal B‐cell and one clonal T‐cell population with large granular lymphocyte related phenotype were found.

Conclusion

Using our panels 5.1% of cases with lymphoproliferative disorder‐associated aberrant findings show two aberrant (clonal) lymphoid and/or plasma cell populations. © 2016 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Associations between meal patterns, binge eating, and weight for Latinas
Authors: Cachelin Fary M. , Thomas Colleen , Vela Alyssa , Gil‐Rivas Virginia
Published: July 2016

Establishing a regular pattern of eating is a core element of treatment for binge eating, yet no research to date has examined meal patterns of Latina women.

Objective

Compare eating patterns of Latinas who binge eat and those who do not, and examine associations between meal patterns and binge episodes, associated distress and concerns, and body mass index (BMI).

Method

One‐hundred fifty‐five Latinas [65 Binge Eating Disorder (BED), 22 Bulimia Nervosa (BN), 68 with no eating disorder] were assessed with the Eating Disorder Examination.

Results

There were no significant differences in eating patterns between groups. Breakfast was the least and dinner the most consumed meal. For the BED group: greater frequency of lunch consumption was associated with higher BMI while more frequent evening snacking was associated with lower BMI and with less weight importance; more frequent breakfast consumption, mid‐morning snack consumption and total meals were associated with greater distress regarding binge eating. For the BN group, evening snack frequency was associated with less dietary restriction and more weight and shape concern; total snack frequency was associated with more weight concern. Regular meal eaters reported more episodes of binge eating than those who did not eat meals regularly.

Discussion

Associations with meal patterns differed by eating disorder diagnosis. Study findings mostly are not consistent with results from prior research on primarily White women. CBT treatments may need to be tailored to address the association between binge eating and regular meal consumption for Latinas. Culturally, appropriate modifications that address traditional eating patterns should be considered. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2017; 50:32–39)
Factors associated with self‐identification of an eating disorder history among Latinas meeting criteria for past or current eating disorders
Authors: Higgins M. K. , Bulik Cynthia M. , Bardone‐Cone Anna M.
Published: July 2016

Objective

This paper compared Latinas who self‐identified as having had an eating disorder (ED) with those who did not (despite both groups meeting criteria for an ED history) on ED pathology and mental health stigma.

Method

Seventy‐seven Latinas completed an online survey.

Results

All 77 participants met criteria for lifetime EDs, and 92% met current criteria for an ED; however, 47% did not report having an ED history vs. 53% did report an ED history. There was no difference on binge eating frequency. Those who endorsed an ED history engaged in more compensatory behaviors, had higher EAT‐26 scores, and were less fearful of stigmatization due to seeking mental health treatment. Those reporting an ED history were more likely to have met criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, generally more recognizable EDs than binge eating disorder and other specified feeding or eating disorders, than those who did not report an ED history.

Discussion

Latinas with certain patterns of eating pathology and those with less fear of being stigmatized due to seeking mental health treatment were more likely to endorse an ED history, which has implications for treatment seeking. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:1032–1035)
Regulating Automakers for Climate Change: US Reforms in Global Context
Authors: Richards Mark J.
Published: July 2016

US President Barack Obama's first major domestic climate policy achievement was the enactment of a cluster of environmental policies regarding automotive firms, in particular significant increases in fuel economy standards. Considering automakers' long history of opposition to environmental regulations in the US, Obama's achievement poses an intriguing research puzzle: how was the US able to enact environmental policy regarding the automotive industry? This article considers conventional explanations of policy adoption but also examines whether globalization, including compliance with global regulations, as well as global competition that left US manufacturers in a weakened economic and political state, influenced firms to acquiesce to environmental regulation. This article finds that globalization concerns motivated nearly all firms to acquiesce to the new policies. Policy enactment was facilitated by conditions within the industry, including global competition and production, technological developments, compliance with carbon and fuel economy regulations across the globe, and the financial and political weakness of domestic firms. Conventional explanations also help to explain policy enactment. Where executive authority existed, President Obama enacted policy via the executive branch rather than working with Congress. Policies created by the passage of legislation in Congress were shaped by presidential leadership, partisan control and outside events. Finally, policymakers built coalitions of support among domestic automakers, labor, environmental and consumer groups, and the public. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
A Quantitative Description of the σ‐Donor and π‐Acceptor Properties of Substituted Phenanthrolines
Authors: Ardizzoia G. Attilio , Bea Michela , Brenna Stefano , Therrien Bruno
Published: July 2016

The bond between molybdenum and substituted 1,10‐phenanthroline ligands in a series of [Mo(CO)4(phen*)] complexes has been studied by combining experimental data (νCO) with DFT calculations. First, natural orbitals for chemical valence (NOCV) were calculated: The resulting charge‐transfer magnitudes (Δqi) associated with the deformation density channels (Δϱi) were related to σ‐donation and π‐back‐donation. Then, energy decomposition analysis was performed by applying the extended transition state (ETS) scheme. The outcomes of the ETS‐NOCV approach has allowed us to quantify the energetic contribution of both ligand‐to‐metal (Eσ) and metal‐to‐ligand (Eπ) interactions. A new parameter (Tphen) has been introduced comprising both Eσ and Eπ and thus providing a descriptor for the overall electronic contribution given by phenanthrolines to the metal–ligand bond. This was corroborated by the linear correlation found between Tphen and the νCO vibration modes of [Mo(CO)4(phen*)] complexes, at least for those containing a 2,9‐unsubstituted phenanthroline. The case of [Mo(CO)4(phen*)] derivatives with a 2,9‐substituted phen* is also discussed.
From marginal to mainstream: The role of perceived social norms in the rise of a far‐right movement
Authors: Portelinha Isabelle , Elcheroth Guy
Published: July 2016

The present research intends to shed light on the processes enabling political minorities to transition into normatively acceptable groups, by investigating how a previously marginalised far‐right movement (the French National Front) is progressively becoming mainstream. Drawing on the social representations approach, we argue that perceived social norms play a pivotal role in this process. Using a longitudinal and experimental design, the study (N = 233) was implemented in the ecological context of the 2012 French presidential election at a Parisian university campus, a traditional anti‐far‐right bastion. We tested whether the electoral campaign altered the perceptions of social norms, whether the perceived social norms were easily malleable in this specific context and, most important, whether they influenced people's willingness to speak out in public against the far‐right movement. The findings support affirmative answers to all three questions. We conclude that, in periods of collective uncertainty, changing perceptions of social norms might play an important role in the weakening of public opposition to far‐right movements. This, in turn, helps to explain the recent transition to mainstream recognition of a number of previously marginalised political movements in Europe and around the globe.
Discrete electric field mediated droplet splitting in microchannels: Fission, Cascade, and Rayleigh modes
Authors: Chaudhuri Joydip , Timung Seim , Dandamudi Chola Bhargava , Mandal Tapas Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Dipankar
Published: July 2016

Numerical simulations supplemented by experiments together uncovered that strategic integration of discrete electric fields in a non‐invasive manner could substantially miniaturize the droplets into smaller parts in a pressure driven oil‐water flow inside microchannels. The Maxwell's stress generated from the electric field at the oil–water interface could deform, stretch, neck, pin, and disintegrate a droplet into many miniaturized daughter droplets, which eventually ushered a one‐step method to form water‐in‐oil microemulsion employing microchannels. The interplay between electrostatic, inertial, capillary, and viscous forces led to various pathways of droplet breaking, namely, fission, cascade, or Rayleigh modes. While a localized electric field in the fission mode could split a droplet into a number of daughter droplets of smaller size, the cascade or the Rayleigh mode led to the formation of an array of miniaturized droplets when multiple electrodes generating different field intensities were ingeniously assembled around the microchannel. The droplets size and frequency could be tuned by varying the field intensity, channel diameter, electrode locations, interfacial tension, and flow ratio. The proposed methodology shows a simple methodology to transform a microdroplet into an array of miniaturized ones inside a straight microchannel for enhanced mass, energy, and momentum transfer, and higher throughput.
Uncertainty and sensitivity in a bank stability model: implications for estimating phosphorus loading
Authors: Lammers Roderick W. , Bledsoe Brian P. , Langendoen Eddy J.
Published: July 2016

Eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems is one of the most pressing water quality concerns in the United States and around the world. Bank erosion has been largely overlooked as a source of nutrient loading, despite field studies demonstrating that this source can account for the majority of the total phosphorus load in a watershed. Substantial effort has been made to develop mechanistic models to predict bank erosion and instability in stream systems; however, these models do not account for inherent natural variability in input values. To quantify the impacts of this omission, uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were performed on the Bank Stability and Toe Erosion Model (BSTEM), a mechanistic model developed by the US Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service (USDA‐ARS) that simulates both mass wasting and fluvial erosion of streambanks. Generally, bank height, soil cohesion, and plant species were found to be most influential in determining stability of clay (cohesive) banks. In addition to these three inputs, groundwater elevation, stream stage, and bank angle were also identified as important in sand (non‐cohesive) banks. Slope and bank height are the dominant variables in fluvial erosion modeling, while erodibility and critical shear stress had low sensitivity indices; however, these indices do not reflect the importance of critical shear stress in determining the timing of erosion events. These results identify important variables that should be the focus of data collection efforts while also indicating which less influential variables may be set to assumed values. In addition, a probabilistic Monte‐Carlo modeling approach was applied to data from a watershed‐scale sediment and phosphorus loading study on the Missisquoi River, Vermont to quantify uncertainty associated with these published results. While our estimates aligned well with previous deterministic modeling results, the uncertainty associated with these predictions suggests that they should be considered order of magnitude estimates only. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brain responses to disorder‐related visual threat in panic disorder
Authors: Feldker Katharina , Heitmann Carina Yvonne , Neumeister Paula , Bruchmann Maximilian , Vibrans Laura , Zwitserlood Pienie , Straube Thomas
Published: July 2016

Panic disorder (PD) patients show aberrant neural responses to threatening stimuli in an extended fear network, but results are only partially comparable, and studies implementing disorder‐related visual scenes are lacking as stimuli. The neural responses and functional connectivity to a newly developed set of disorder‐related, ecologically valid scenes as compared with matched neutral visual scenes, using event‐related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 26 PD patients and 26 healthy controls (HC) were investigated. PD patients versus HC showed hyperactivation in an extended fear network comprising brainstem, insula, thalamus, anterior, and mid‐cingulate cortex and (dorso‐)medial prefrontal cortex for disorder‐related versus neutral scenes. Amygdala differences between groups failed significance. Subjective levels of anxiety significantly correlated with brainstem activation in PD patients. Analysis of functional connectivity by means of beta series correlation revealed no emotion‐specific alterations in connectivity in PD patients versus HC. The results suggest that subjective anxiety evoked by external stimuli is directly related to altered activation in the homeostatic alarm system in PD. With novel disorder‐related stimuli, the study sheds new light on the neural underpinnings of pathological threat processing in PD. Hum Brain Mapp 37:4439–4453, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.