bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Oligonucleotide probes functionalization of nanogap electrodes
Authors: Zaffino Rosa Letizia , Mir Mònica , Samitier Josep 
Published: May 2017

AbstractNanogap electrodes have attracted a lot of consideration as promising platform for molecular electronic and biomolecules detection. This is mainly for their higher aspect ratio, and because their electrical properties are easily accessed by current‐voltage measurements. Nevertheless, application of standard current‐voltages measurements used to characterize nanogap response, and/or to modify specific nanogap electrodes properties, represents an issue. Since the strength of electrical fields in nanoscaled devices can reach high values, even at low voltages. Here, we analyzed the effects induced by different methods of surface modification of nanogap electrodes, in test‐voltage application, employed for the electrical detection of a desoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) target. Nanogap electrodes were functionalized with two antisymmetric oligo‐probes designed to have 20 terminal bases complementary to the edges of the target, which after hybridization bridges the nanogap, closing the electrical circuit. Two methods of functionalization were studied for this purpose; a random self‐assembling of a mixture of the two oligo‐probes (OPs) used in the platform, and a selective method that controls the position of each OP at selected side of nanogap electrodes. We used for this aim, the electrophoretic effect induced on negatively charged probes by the application of an external direct current voltage. The results obtained with both functionalization methods where characterized and compared in terms of electrode surface covering, calculated by using voltammetry analysis. Moreover, we contrasted the electrical detection of a DNA target in the nanogap platform either in site‐selective and in randomly assembled nanogap. According to our results, a denser, although not selective surface functionalization, is advantageous for such kind of applications.
Centrifugal‐driven, reduced‐dimension, planar chromatography
Authors: Strickhouser Rachel B. , Hatab Nahla A. , Lavrik Nickolay V. , Sepaniak Michael J. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractA fundamental problem with efficiency in capillary action driven planar chromatography results from diminishing flow rates as development proceeds, giving rise to molecular diffusion related band dispersion for most sample types. Overpressure and electrokinetic means to speed flow have been used successfully in TLC. We explore the use of centrifugal force (CF) to drive flow for reduced‐dimension planar platforms (ultra‐TLC, low micrometer features, and nano‐TLC, nanoscale features). The silicon wafer platforms have two forms of continuous 2D arrays created by either photolithography or metal dewetting followed by deep reactive ion etching and coated with porous SiO2. The flow pattern is unusual with co‐planar flows above and within the arrays. The effects of parameters such as spin rate, solvent type, and surface character on flow rates is established and can be substantially greater than capillary action flow. Using fluorescent dyes, we investigate retardation factors and chromatographic plate height; the latter falls in the low to sub‐micrometer range. To the best of our knowledge, we demonstrate the first analytical separations performed in pillar arrays using CF to augment solvent flow.
Force‐displacement model for solid confined masonry walls with shear‐dominated failure mode
Authors: Yekrangnia Mohammad , Bakhshi Ali , Ghannad Mohammad Ali 
Published: May 2017

SummaryThis paper addresses the behavior of confined masonry walls with dominating shear failure mode in walls. For this purpose, failure modes of these walls are classified in details. For each failure mode, complete set of analytical‐based relations for deriving parameters related to backbone curves is introduced. Calibrated finite element analyses are utilized as a benchmark for verification of some of the assumptions. The results of the proposed relations are compared with those of several Iranian and non‐Iranian experimental data. Sensitivity analysis is performed in order to understand the effects of important behavioral characteristics of these walls. The results of this study indicate that the proposed relations can accurately simulate behavior of confined masonry walls with dominating shear failure mode regardless of the failure mode in the ties. Moreover, it is concluded that the detailing limitations given in the Iranian Seismic Code are rationally compatible with the behavioral characteristics of confided masonry walls. The results of this study in terms of backbone curves can be utilized as the complementary part to this code. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alterations of resting‐state fMRI measurements in individuals with cervical dystonia
Authors: Li Zhihao , Prudente Cecília N. , Stilla Randall , Sathian K. , Jinnah H. A. , Hu Xiaoping 
Published: May 2017

AbstractCervical dystonia (CD) is a neurological disorder with typical symptoms of involuntary and abnormal movements and postures of the head. CD‐associated alterations of functional brain networks have not been well characterized. Previous studies of CD using resting‐state functional MRI (rfMRI) are limited in two aspects: (i) the analyses were not directly focused on the functional brain network related to head movement and (ii) rfMRI measurements other than functional connectivity (FC) were not investigated. The present study examined alterations of FC in CD by capitalizing on newly identified brain regions supporting isometric head rotation (Prudente et al.: J Neurosci 35 (2015) 9163–9172). In addition to FC, which only reflects inter‐regional signal synchronization, local, or intraregional alterations were also examined using rfMRI measurements of the fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations and regional homogeneity (ReHo). Finally, with alterations of different rfMRI measures identified, a support vector machine (SVM) learning algorithm was implemented for group classification. The results revealed both inter‐ (FC) and intra‐regional (ReHo) alterations extensively distributed in both cortical and subcortical structures; and common alterations of these measures were identified bilaterally in the postcentral gyrus as well as in the basal ganglia and thalamus. Of the rfMRI features examined, seven of them (four FC and three ReHo measures) survived the SVM procedure of recursive feature elimination and together provided the highest group classification accuracy of 90.6%. The present findings extend previous studies of rfMRI in CD and offer insight into the underlying pathophysiology of the disorder in relation to network dysfunction and somatosensory disturbances. Hum Brain Mapp 38:4098–4108, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The role of men in induced abortion decision making in an urban area of the Philippines
Authors: Hirz Alanna E. , Avila Josephine L. , Gipson Jessica D. 
Published: May 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo understand beliefs about unintended pregnancy and abortion, and perceptions about male roles related to pregnancy decision‐making among men in the Philippines.MethodsQualitative data were collected during in‐depth interviews and focus group discussions with men in an urban area of the Philippines between October 2007 and July 2008. Interview participants were purposively sampled from a local survey based on their having reported being “afraid or troubled” or “afraid and planned to terminate” in response to a recent pregnancy. Focus group participants were selected from the same communities. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method.ResultsIn‐depth interview data from 15 men—each interviewed twice—and five focus group discussions were included. Male interview participants reported feeling morally responsible for the pregnancy and as wanting to avoid the “sin” of induced abortion; however, they were concerned about being able to support a family financially. Participants expressed resentment towards partners who attempted or completed an induced abortion without their knowledge. In such cases, men would disparage their partner and cease interacting with them to avoid the “sin” of induced abortion.ConclusionParticipants described negative feelings towards women seeking induced abortions, and their own desire to avoid associated “sin”. This highlights the effects of unintended pregnancy and induced abortion on young Filipino men, including their own experience of abortion stigma.
Using propensity score matching to evaluate the effect of complementary medicine on clinical and embryologic outcomes of in vitro fertilization
Authors: Porat‐Katz Anat , Eldar‐Geva Talia , Kahane Arik , Paltiel Ora 
Published: May 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate associations between using complementary medical therapies (CMTs) and embryologic and clinical outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF).MethodsThe present prospective questionnaire‐based cohort study enrolled women aged 18–44 years undergoing their first, second, or third IVF cycle using their own oocytes at a large IVF clinic in Israel between February 1, 2013, and July 31, 2015. Clinical and embryologic data were obtained from patient records and patients completed a self‐administered questionnaire that included details of any CMTs used to treat infertility. Propensity score matching was used and the proportion of top‐quality embryos was compared between CMT users and non‐users.ResultsThe study enrolled 400 participants and 134 (33.5%) reported using CMT to treat infertility. In an unmatched analysis, reduced endometrium thickness was observed among CMT users (P=0.020); differences were not observed for embryologic or other clinical parameters. Following propensity score matching, reduced endometrial thickness (P=0.046), and a lower proportion (P=0.046) and number (P=0.040) of top‐quality embryos were observed among CMT users in comparison with patients who did not use CMTs.ConclusionsUsing CMTs was associated with inferior clinical and embryologic outcomes; using CMTs during IVF treatment could contribute to adverse outcomes.
Population‐based cohort study of the effect of endometrial cancer classification and treatment criteria on long‐term survival
Authors: Svanvik Teresia , Sundfeldt Karin , Strömberg Ulf , Holmberg Erik , Marcickiewicz Janusz 
Published: May 2017

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate if increased individualization in endometrial cancer classification/treatment affected relative survival.MethodsThe present retrospective register‐based population study included data from all women in the western Swedish healthcare region who were treated for endometrial cancer between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2011. Outcomes and prognostic data were retrieved from the western Swedish healthcare region's cancer and clinical endometrial cancer registries. Patients were stratified based on two different treatment programs (cohort 1 January 1, 1995, to September 10, 2006, and cohort 2 September 11, 2006, to December 31, 2011) and relative survival was compared.ResultsData from 4338 patients were included; 2936 in cohort 1 and 1402 in cohort 2. Among endometrioid endometrial carcinomas, the 5‐year relative survival rate for did not differ significantly between the groups (P=0.751); radiotherapy was used more frequently in cohort 1 (P<0.001). Among non‐endometrioid endometrial carcinomas, relative survival was lower in cohort 1 (P=0.006); radiotherapy use was more frequent in cohort 1 and chemotherapy use was more frequent in cohort 2 (P<0.001).ConclusionIncreased individualization in endometrioid endometrial cancer management did not improve relative survival. Improved relative survival was observed for non‐endometrioid endometrial cancer; possibly due to increased adjuvant chemotherapy use.
Development of a SiYAlON glaze for improved osteoconductivity of implantable medical devices
Authors: Bock Ryan M. , Marin Elia , Rondinella Alfredo , Boschetto Francesco , Adachi Tetsuya , McEntire Bryan J. , Bal B. Sonny , Pezzotti Giuseppe 
Published: May 2017

AbstractThe application of bioactive coatings onto orthopaedic appliances is commonly performed to compensate for the otherwise bioinert nature of medical devices and to improve their osseointegration. Calcium phosphates, hydroxyapatite (HAp), and bioglasses are commercially available for this purpose. Until recently, few other inorganic compounds have been identified with similar biofunctionality. However, silicon nitride (Si3N4) has emerged as a new orthopaedic material whose unique surface chemistry also enhances osteoconductivity. Recent research has confirmed that its minority intergranular phase, consisting of silicon yttrium aluminum oxynitride (SiYAlON), is principally responsible for this improvement. As a result, it was hypothesized that SiYAlON itself might serve as an effective osteoconductive coating or glaze for medical devices. To test this hypothesis, a process inspired by traditional ceramic whiteware glazing was developed. A slurry containing ingredients similar to the intergranular SiYAlON composition was applied to a Si3N4surface, which was then subjected to a heat treatment to form a glaze. Various analytical tools were employed to assess its chemistry and morphology. It was found that the glaze was comprised predominately of Y5Si3O12N, a compound commonly referred to as N‐apatite, which is isostructural to native HAp. Subsequent exposure of the glazed surface to acellular simulated body fluid led to increased deposition of biomimetic HAp‐like crystals, while exposure to Saos‐2 osteosarcoma cellsin vitroresulted in greater HAp deposition relative to control samples. The observation that SiYAlON exhibits enhanced osteoconductivity portends its potential as a therapeutic aid in bone and tissue repair. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1084–1096, 2018.
Electrospun polyethersolfone nanofibrous membrane as novel platform for protein immobilization in microfluidic systems
Authors: Mahmoudifard Matin , Vossoughi Manouchehr , Soudi Sara , Soleimani Masoud 
Published: May 2017

AbstractIn the present study, the feasibility of electrospun polyethersolfone (PES) nanofibrous membrane as the solid substrate for microfluidic based immunoassays to enhance the density of immobilized antibody on the surface of membrane was assessed. Conversely, the efficacy of antibody immobilization was compared by two different strategies as 1‐Ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)‐carbodiimide (EDC)/N‐Hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) coupling chemistry and hydrophobic interaction. Compared to conventional immunoassays carried out in plates or gels, microfluidic based immunoassays grant a lot of advantages such as a consumption of little samples and reagents, shorter analysis time, and higher efficiency. Therefore, microfluidic immunoassays can be efficiently used as a point‐of‐care device in medical diagnosis. Surprisingly, we found the increase of specific surface areas of the microfluidic channels improve density of immobilized proteins and leads to higher signal strength. Anti‐staphylococcus enterotoxin B (anti‐SEB) was used as an analyte model to demonstrate the utility of our proposed platform. Fluorescent microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR), gas adsorption, contact angle, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Uv‐Vis spectrophotometer and atomic force microscopy (AFM) techniques were used to assess the efficacy of antibody immobilization on the surface. To understand dominant mechanism of protein immobilization, zeta potential measurement was also carried out and it was found electrostatic attraction play significant role in antibody immobilization running into micro‐ channels containing through EDC/NHS. Moreover, incorporation of nanofibrous membrane causes significant improvement in the signal detection of microfluidic based immunoassay. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1108–1120, 2018.
Antibacterial efficacy of poly(vinyl alcohol) composite nanofibers embedded with silver‐anchored silica nanoparticles
Authors: Jatoi Abdul Wahab , Jo Yun Kee , Lee Hoik , Oh Seong‐Geun , Hwang Dong Soo , Khatri Zeeshan , Cha Hyung Joon , Kim Ick Soo 
Published: May 2017

AbstractSilver has been widely used as an effective antibacterial agent especially for treating burns and wounds. However, release of silver from materials often arouse side effects due to toxicity of silver towards mammalian cells. Argyria and argyrosis are well known problems of acute toxicity of silver towards human body. Immobilization of silver is an effective approach to reduce silver release. Herein, we present poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composite nanofibers embedded with silver‐anchored silica nanoparticles (SSNs) as a novel antibacterial material. Silver nanoparticles anchored on silica nanoparticles were prepared and incorporated into PVA nanofibers to fabricate silver‐silica embedded PVA nanofibers (SSN‐PVA) by electrospinning. Incorporation of SSNs into PVA was confirmed by TEM and SEM results revealed regular nanofibers whose diameter increased with successive addition of SSNs. The SSN‐PVA nanofibers showed significant antibacterial efficacy against both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. Our research results demonstrated SSN‐embedded polymeric nanofibers can open up a promising prospect for the prevention of bacterial infection in diverse biomedical fields including wound dressing. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1121–1128, 2018.
A Systematic Review of the Effect of Therapists’ Internalized Models of Relationships on the Quality of the Therapeutic Relationship
Authors: Steel Catherine , Macdonald James , Schroder Thomas 
Published: May 2017

ObjectivePrevious reviews have found equivocal evidence of an association between therapists’ internalized relational models and the therapeutic relationship and have neglected empirical literature based on Sullivan's notion of introject. This review expanded upon previous reviews to examine the effect of therapist internalized relational models on a broader conceptualization of the therapeutic relationship.MethodSystematic search processes identified 22 papers measuring therapist attachment and/or introject and therapeutic relationship: 19 on therapist attachment, 5 on introject with 2 overlapping.ResultsOverall, despite heterogeneity in design and variable methodological quality, evidence suggests that therapist attachment affects therapeutic relationship quality, observed in client‐rated evaluation, therapist negative countertransference, empathy, and problems in therapy. Interaction effects between client and therapist attachment style were also found. Evidence suggesting that therapist introject also affects therapeutic relationship quality, including therapists’ manner and feelings toward their clients, was stronger.ConclusionEvidence clearly shows that therapists’ internalized relational models affect the therapeutic relationship. More research is necessary to clarify exactly how therapist and client internalized relational models interact and translate these findings into clinical practice.
Professional Burnout, Early Maladaptive Schemas, and Physical Health in Clinical and Counselling Psychology Trainees
Authors: Kaeding April , Sougleris Christina , Reid Corinne , van Vreeswijk Michiel F. , Hayes Christopher , Dorrian Jill , Simpson Susan 
Published: May 2017

ObjectiveLittle is known about the personal factors that increase vulnerability to job‐related stress and burnout among psychologists in training. This study was based on a large international sample and aimed to explore the role of early maladaptive schemas (EMS) in predicting vulnerability to burnout, as well as attendant effects on short‐term physical health, in clinical and counseling postgraduate psychology trainees.MethodAn online, quantitative, cross‐sectional survey method design was used to collect self‐report data that measured burnout, EMS, and physical health from 1,297 trainees.ResultsOnly the unrelenting standards (US) schema predicted high burnout among trainees. The most commonly endorsed physical health symptoms were back and neck pain and tiredness, and were more severe for those experiencing high burnout.ConclusionThe current study contributes to our understanding of the role of the US EMS in the evolution of burnout in trainees and has implications for the development of self‐awareness training programs for this population.
Simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorus removal by combined anammox and denitrifying phosphorus removal process
Authors: Zhang Meijiao , Qiao Sen , Shao Donghai , Jin Ruofei , Zhou Jiti 
Published: May 2017

AbstractBACKGROUNDSingle‐stage nitrogen removal using anammox and partial nitrification process (SNAP process) is a promising process to treat low C/N wastewater relying on ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) bacteria. However, excess nitrate (NO3−) in effluent is a common problem for the SNAP process. The denitrifying phosphorus removal (DPAO) process using NO3− as electron acceptor was adopted to reduce nitrate in effluent from the SNAP process, while phosphorus removal was also achieved simultaneously. Thus, a novel combined process (DPAO‐SNAP process) was established to achieve nitrogen and phosphorus removal simultaneously.RESULTSThe DPAO‐SNAP process achieved average 95.7% chemical oxygen demand, 98.2% total nitrogen and 97.8% total phosphorus removal efficiencies during stable stages. Furthermore, Candidatus Kuenenia and Nitrosomonas were identified as the dominant genus for anammox bacteria and AOB, respectively. Defluviicoccus was enriched as the glycogen‐accumulating microorganism (GAOs) for the DPAO process with acetate as the carbon source, while Rhodocyclales was the dominant genus in the DPAO process with mixed carbon source.CONCLUSIONThis DPAO‐SNAP process could not only resolve the problem of effluent NO3− in the SNAP process but also simultaneously achieved high removal efficiency of COD, TN and TP with a low need for carbon sources (COD/N/P=25:15:1). © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry