bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Facile Synthesis of Fluorescent Polymer Nanoparticles by Covalent Modification–Nanoprecipitation of Amine‐Reactive Ester Polymers
Authors: Lee Yeonju , Hanif Sadaf , Theato Patrick , Zentel Rudolf , Lim Jeewoo , Char Kookheon 
Published: March 2015

Emission wavelength control in fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) is crucial for their applications. In the case of inorganic quantum dots or dye‐impregnated silica NPs, such a control is readily achieved by changing the size of the particles or choosing appropriate fluorescent dyes, respectively. A similar modular approach for controlling the emission wavelength of fluo­rescent polymer NPs, however, is difficult. This article reports on fluorescent polymer NPs, the synthesis of which provides a platform for a modular approach towards the preparation of fluorescent NPs of desired emission wavelength. Atom‐transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) is employed to synthesize reactive ester polymers, which are then easily modified with a commercially available dye and subsequently subjected to nanoprecipitation. The resulting NPs, with low size polydispersity, show an enhanced emission quantum yield when compared with the same dye molecules in solution.
image
Treatable causes of cerebellar ataxia
Authors: Ramirez‐Zamora Adolfo , Zeigler Warren , Desai Neeja , Biller José 
Published: March 2015

AbstractThe cerebellar ataxia syndromes are a heterogeneous group of disorders clinically characterized by the presence of cerebellar dysfunction. Initial assessment of patients with progressive cerebellar ataxia is complex because of an extensive list of potential diagnoses. A detailed history and comprehensive examination are required for an accurate diagnosis and hierarchical diagnostic investigations. Although no cure exists for most of these conditions, a small group of metabolic, hereditary, inflammatory, and immune‐mediated etiologies of cerebellar ataxia are amenable to disease‐modifying, targeted therapies. Over the past years, disease‐specific treatments have emerged. Thus, clinicians must become familiar with these disorders because maximal therapeutic benefit is only possible when done early. In this article, we review disorders in which cerebellar ataxia is a prominent clinical feature requiring targeted treatments along with specific management recommendations. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The Clinical Effectiveness of the Extended‐Scope Physiotherapist Role in Musculoskeletal Triage: A Systematic Review
Authors: Oakley Caroline , Shacklady Carol 
Published: March 2015

AbstractBackgroundExtended‐scope physiotherapists (ESPs) are working in musculoskeletal (MSK) triage clinics to assess, diagnose and refer patients for appropriate management. However, there is inadequate appraisal of their clinical effectiveness.ObjectivesThe aim of the present systematic review was to appraise the evidence on the diagnostic ability of ESPs in MSK triage, and patient and general practitioner (GP) satisfaction when seen by an ESP in a MSK clinic.MethodCINAHL, AMED, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched from 1989 to February 2014 using the keywords ‘physiotherapy’, ‘extended practitioner’ and ‘musculoskeletal disease’. Data extraction was compiled using the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (2009) method. Diagnostic accuracy studies were assessed for methodological quality using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network (SIGN). Patient/GP satisfaction was assessed using a tool adapted by Desmeules et al. (2012).ResultsFrom 146 studies initially identified, 14 were eligible for review. Only one diagnostic study was of high quality, and satisfaction study scores ranged from 40% to 73%. All studies reported favourable outcomes for ESPs in MSK triage clinics, with ESPs demonstrating a good level of diagnostic ability in comparison with a gold standard such as surgery. In addition, patients and GPs were satisfied with the overall performance and service provided by ESPs.ConclusionThe evidence suggests that ESPs are clinically effective. However, there were methodological shortcomings in the reviewed studies, and further research, using larger sample sizes, multiple locations and comparisons of the same patient cohorts, would strengthen the evidence available to influence future commissioning of these services. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peripheral nervous system involvement in chronic spinal cord injury
Authors: Tankisi Hatice , Pugdahl Kirsten , Rasmussen Mikkel Mylius , Clemmensen Dorte , Rawashdeh Yazan F. , Christensen Peter , Krogh Klaus , Fuglsang‐Frederiksen Anders 
Published: March 2015

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Upper motor neuron disorders are believed to leave the peripheral nervous system (PNS) intact. In this study we examined whether there is evidence of PNS involvement in spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: Twelve subjects with chronic low cervical or thoracic SCI were included prospectively. Needle electromyography was done in 10 different muscles in each subject bilaterally. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) were conducted in the fibular, tibial, and femoral motor and fibular and sural sensory nerves. Results: Half the subjects had widespread abnormal spontaneous activity (SA), and the amount of SA correlated inversely with reflex activity and nerve length. Fibular nerve entrapment across the knee was seen in 6 subjects, and sciatic nerve entrapment was seen in 1. Apart from entrapment neuropathies, NCS changes were found predominantly in motor nerves. Conclusion: The presence of widespread electrophysiologic changes outside entrapment sites indicates that SCI has a significant impact on the entire PNS, affecting the motor part predominantly. Muscle Nerve 52: 1016–1022, 2015
Between‐day reliability of the trapezius muscle H‐reflex and M‐wave
Authors: Vangsgaard Steffen , Hansen Ernst a. , Madeleine Pascal 
Published: March 2015

ABSTRACTIntroduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the between‐day reliability of the trapezius muscle H‐reflex and M‐wave. Methods: Sixteen healthy subjects were studied on 2 consecutive days. Trapezius muscle H‐reflexes were evoked by electrical stimulation of the C3/4 cervical nerves; M‐waves were evoked by electrical stimulation of the accessory nerve. Relative reliability was estimated by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC2,1). Absolute reliability was estimated by computing the standard error of measurement (SEM) and the smallest real difference (SRD). Bland–Altman plots were constructed to detect any systematic bias. Results: Variables showed substantial to excellent relative reliability (ICC = 0.70–0.99). The relative SEM ranged from 1.4% to 34.8%; relative SRD ranged from 3.8% to 96.5%. No systematic bias was present in the data. Conclusions: The amplitude and latency of the trapezius muscle H‐reflex and M‐wave in healthy young subjects can be measured reliably across days. Muscle Nerve 52: 1066–1071, 2015
Vincristine‐induced neuropathy: Atypical electrophysiological patterns in children
Authors: Courtemanche Hélène , Magot Armelle , Ollivier Yolaine , Rialland Fanny , Leclair‐Visonneau Laurène , Fayet Guillemette , Camdessanché Jean‐Philippe , Péréon Yann 
Published: March 2015

ABSTRACTIntroductionVincristine is an antimitotic agent used for treatment of leukemia, lymphomas, and cancers. Its main side effect is a dose‐related, length‐dependent (LD) axonal neuropathy.MethodsWe performed electrodiagnostic (EDx) examinations in 17 children who had been treated with vincristine and who presented with the clinical picture of a peripheral neuropathy.ResultsThe mean dose of vincristine was 8.5 ± 4.0 mg/m2. Clinical motor symptoms were more frequent and more severe than sensory ones. Thirteen children presented with a motor deficit, 4 of whom could no longer walk. EDx examination showed an axonal neuropathy with a non–length‐dependent (NLD) pattern in 9 children and an LD pattern in 8. A major motor predominance was encountered in 12 patients.ConclusionsThe electrophysiological and clinical motor predominance described differs from the mainly sensory neuropathy reported in adults. Incomplete myelination due to young age may have resulted in greater sensitivity of some nerves to neurotoxic agents. Muscle Nerve 52: 981–985, 2015
Patients’ perceptions of injecting insulin and self‐monitoring of blood glucose in the presence of others
Authors: Mehmet Serife , Hussey Christine , Ibrahim Sharaf 
Published: March 2015

AbstractThe aim of this study was to determine if patients with insulin treated diabetes report problems with injecting insulin and self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in front of others and, if so, explore reasons for the problem.Seventy‐six randomly selected patients completed a questionnaire. Statements were presented as ‘Are you comfortable with injecting insulin/doing a blood glucose test in front of partner/own children/family/friends/work colleagues or in a public place?’, and scored as: almost always/most of the time/sometimes/almost never.Forty‐nine participants reported problems with injecting insulin and performing SMBG in the presence of others. Their characteristics were: 25 male and 24 female, 29 type 1 and 20 types 2 diabetes, age range 26–77 years (mean 50.8 ± 12.9 years), duration of diabetes range 1–50 years (mean 19.6 ± 12.8 years), and HbA1c range 6.0–11.5% (mean 8.14 ± 1.25%). Just over a third of respondents ‘almost never’ felt comfortable with performing insulin injections and SMBG in a public place. Fifty percent of respondents ‘almost never’ inject insulin in front of work colleagues. Most respondents felt comfortable with performing insulin injections and SMBG in front of their partner, children and family.In conclusion, patients across all ages, gender, diabetes type and diabetes duration report problems with injecting insulin and performing SMBG in front of others. The most common reason cited was ‘worried about upsetting or offending others’. Other reasons were ‘worried about what others may think of you’, and ‘do not want others to know that you have diabetes’. A public awareness campaign may help overcome some of these barriers. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The design and evaluation of a self‐management algorithm for people with type 1 diabetes performing moderate intensity exercise
Authors: Charlton Jacqui , Kilbride Lynn , MacLean Rory , Darlison Mark G , McKnight John 
Published: March 2015

AbstractLimited evidence is available to advise people with type 1 diabetes about self‐management strategies for maintaining acceptable glycaemic control when exercising.A systematic review was conducted to design a self‐management algorithm for moderate intensity exercise. The effectiveness was investigated regarding the attainment of acceptable glucose concentrations during and after 40 minutes of exercise at 70% VO2 max in the real‐life environment.Nine individuals with type 1 diabetes (five male, four female) completed the study over a two‐week period. All used a basal bolus analogue insulin regimen and exercised regularly. Participants undertook 40 minutes of moderate intensity exercise on days 1 and 8 in real‐life environments, and followed the self‐management algorithm. Data were collected for glucose concentrations at 10 time‐points, i.e. before, during and after exercise.Analysis showed that during the whole time‐period, 56% of participant episodes were in the acceptable glucose range of 4–9 mmol/L, and 39% were above 9 mmol/L. In relation to hypoglycaemic episodes, one episode occurred during exercise, and eight episodes occurred during 8–12 hours after exercise.Despite post‐exercise insulin reduction, nocturnal hypoglycaemia occurred and algorithm adjustments are required regarding carbohydrate consumption at bedtime for future prevention. An addition to the current self‐management algorithm would be to perform blood glucose monitoring 8–12 hours after post‐exercise insulin and meal. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cryo‐EM structure of fatty acid synthase (FAS) from Rhodosporidium toruloides provides insights into the evolutionary development of fungal FAS
Authors: Fischer Manuel , Rhinow Daniel , Zhu Zhiwei , Mills Deryck J. , Zhao Zongbao K. , Vonck Janet , Grininger Martin 
Published: March 2015

AbstractFungal fatty acid synthases Type I (FAS I) are up to 2.7 MDa large molecular machines composed of large multifunctional polypeptides. Half of the amino acids in fungal FAS I are involved in structural elements that are responsible for scaffolding the elaborate barrel‐shaped architecture and turning fungal FAS I into highly efficient de novo producers of fatty acids. Rhodosporidium toruloides is an oleaginous fungal species and renowned for its robust conversion of carbohydrates into lipids to over 70% of its dry cell weight. Here, we use cryo‐EM to determine a 7.8‐Å reconstruction of its FAS I that reveals unexpected features; its novel form of splitting the multifunctional polypeptide chain into the two subunits α and β, and its duplicated ACP domains. We show that the specific distribution into α and β occurs by splitting at one of many possible sites that can be accepted by fungal FAS I. While, therefore, the specific distribution in α and β chains in R. toruloides FAS I is not correlated to increased protein activities, we also show that the duplication of ACP is an evolutionary late event and argue that duplication is beneficial for the lipid overproduction phenotype.
Dyadic Aspects of Sexual Well-Being in Men with Laser-Treated Penile Carcinoma
Authors: Skeppner Elisabet , Fugl-Meyer Kerstin 
Published: March 2015

Abstract

Introduction
Coping with cancer, its treatment and recovery are dyadic processes within a relationship. Sexual dysfunctions and problems of penile cancer may add to the demands of coping.

Aim
The prospective study aimed to describe the dyadic aspects of sexual well-being and life satisfaction before and 1 year after organ-sparing laser treatment of penile carcinoma.

Methods
A consecutive series of 29 patients with penile carcinoma suitable for laser treatment were included together with their partners, median age 60 (37–73) years and 57 (30–72) years, respectively. Median length of relationship was 29 years (1–54 years). The participants completed structured interviews before treatment, at 6 months' and 12 months' follow-up. The interview addressed sexual activities, sexual functions, verbal (sexual) communication, and life satisfaction.

Main Outcome Measures
Three well-validated instruments were included: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, International Index of Erectile Function-5, and Life Satisfaction checklist, LiSat-11. The interviews contained the same questions for patients and partners at all three measuring points.

Results
There was a high level of within-couple agreement on sexual activities, sexual function, and life satisfaction before and after organ-sparring treatment. No significant differences between interview data at 6 and 12 months' follow-up occurred. Before treatment, sexual dysfunctions were common among men, especially decreased sexual interest and dyspareunia. At follow-up, increased sexual function was found, with the exception of erectile function and women's orgasm. A rather high proportion was being unsatisfactory sexually inactive. Few had an ongoing verbal (sexual) mutual communication. Couples with an active sexual life at follow-up showed coherence in high satisfaction with life as a whole.

Conclusion
A high level of within-couple agreement concerning sexuality and life satisfaction points to the necessity of including an adequate sexological case history, counseling, and treatment for this group of patients and their partners.
IP3 and calcium signaling involved in the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and cell rounding induced by cigarette smoke extract in human endothelial cells
Authors: Lin Bo‐Hong , Tsai Ming‐Hsuan , Lii Chong‐Kuei , Wang Tsu‐Shing 
Published: March 2015

ABSTRACTSmoking increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders and leads to damage caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. The actin cytoskeleton is a key player in the response to inflammatory stimuli and is an early target of cellular oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in actin cytoskeleton dynamics in human endothelial EA.hy926 cells exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE). Immunostaining revealed that CSE exposure resulted in modification of the actin cytoskeleton and led to cell rounding in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. In addition, the intracellular calcium concentration was increased by treatment with CSE. Pretreatment with antioxidants (lipoic acid, glutathione, N‐acetyl cysteine, aminoguanidine, α‐tocopherol, and vitamin C) significantly attenuated the CSE‐induced actin cytoskeleton reorganization and cell rounding. Calcium ion chelators (EGTA, BAPTA‐AM AM) and a potent store‐operated calcium channel inhibitor (MRS 1845) also reduced CSE‐induced intracellular calcium changes and attenuated actin cytoskeleton reorganization and cell morphology change. Moreover, the CSE‐induced intracellular calcium increase was suppressed by pretreatment with the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) inhibitor xestospongin C, the phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor U‐73122, and the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor GF109203X. These results suggest that reactive oxygen species production and intracellular calcium increase play an essential role in CSE‐induced actin disorganization and cell rounding through a PLC–IP3–PKC signaling pathway. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1293–1306, 2016.
Persistence of levator ani sonographic defect detected by three‐dimensional transperineal sonography in primiparous women
Authors: Valsky D. V. , Lipschuetz M. , Cohen S. M. , Daum H. , Messing B. , Yagel I. , Yagel S. 
Published: March 2015

AbstractObjectivesCorrelation of the sonographic appearance of levator ani muscle (LAM) injury soon after delivery with that at long‐term follow‐up has not been described fully. We aimed to compare results of three‐dimensional (3D) transperineal sonographic (TPS) evaluation of the LAM from the period immediately postpartum with long‐term follow‐up, to determine whether sonographic findings persist over time.MethodsPrimiparous women (n = 210) who had been examined by 3D‐TPS in a previous study to determine LAM trauma 24–72 hours after delivery were invited to participate in a follow‐up examination 3–21 months postpartum. We included in this study only women who were not pregnant when approached and who had not given birth in the interim. LAM trauma was diagnosed with 3D‐TPS when we observed discontinuity and distortion of the most anteromedial part of the pubovisceral muscle in the coronal C‐plane or rendered image. Initial and follow‐up 3D‐TPS results were compared using Cohen's kappa test for inter‐rater agreement.ResultsAmong the 87 women included in this study we found strong correlation between earlier and later sonographic appearance of LAM: 17/21 women with a sonographic finding of LAM injury in the period immediately postpartum were positive in the follow‐up examination, and only 2/66 women negative for LAM damage at the first examination were found to have sonographic evidence of LAM defect at follow‐up (Cohen's kappa, 0.805 (95% CI, 0.656–0.954), P < 0.001).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that 3D‐TPS of the LAM is a reliable examination. A sonographic finding of LAM defect identified in the period immediately postpartum persists months or years after delivery; therefore, this test may be performed following delivery, or may be delayed without impacting the result. It is likely that this sonographic defect represents real anatomical disruption and is not an imaging artifact. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Innovation in the water industry: barriers and opportunities for US and UK utilities
Authors: Speight Vanessa L. 
Published: March 2015

Water utilities face a variety of challenges in meeting future demands under climate uncertainty, addressing aging infrastructure, ensuring water quality, and reducing energy use. The agility of the utility to implement innovative solutions to these challenges depends upon a variety of factors including utility governance and culture, regulatory environment, condition and performance of water infrastructure, and funding mechanisms for system improvements. The consequences of failing to meet these challenges could include environmental degradation, public health risks, and reductions in the level of service customers have come to expect, all at a highly elevated price. Two different types of water utilities are compared in this context: privately owned companies (using UK water companies as examples) and publicly owned utilities (using US municipal utilities as examples). Examples of innovation in the water industry, in the US and UK as well as globally, provide insight into the key barriers and opportunities for change. The successful drivers of innovation in the water industry are shown to include: a supportive culture at the water utility; a regulatory regime that allows or even promotes innovation; the financial ability to undertake research and implement improvements; and crucially, the backing of the public. Ultimately, neither the municipal nor the private model is perfect but the best elements of these could be combined as the basis for an innovative water utility of the future. WIREs Water 2015, 2:301–313. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1082This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Planning Water
Human Water > Water Governance
A global survey of stakeholder views and experiences for systems needed to effectively and efficiently govern sustainability of bioenergy
Authors: Stupak Inge , Joudrey Jamie , Smith C. Tattersall , Pelkmans Luc , Chum Helena , Cowie Annette , Englund Oskar , Goh Chun Sheng , Junginger Martin 
Published: March 2015

Different governance mechanisms have emerged to ensure biomass and bioenergy sustainability amidst a myriad of related public and private regulations that have existed for decades. We conducted a global survey with 59 questions which examined 192 stakeholders' views and experiences related to (1) the multi‐leveled governance to which they are subjected, (2) the impacts of that governance on bioenergy production and trade, and (3) the most urgent areas for improvement of certification schemes. The survey revealed significant support along the whole supply chain for new legislation which uses market‐based certification schemes to demonstrate compliance (co‐regulation). Some respondents did not see a need for new regulation, and meta‐standards is a promising approach for bridging divergent views, especially if other proof than certification will be an option. Most respondents had so far experienced positive or neutral changes to their bioenergy production or trade after the introduction of new sustainability governance. Legislative requirements and a green business profile were important motivations for getting certified, while lack of market advantages, administrative complexity and costs all were barriers of varying importance. A need to include, e.g., regular standard revision and dealing with conflicting criteria was identified by respondents associated with bioenergy schemes. Respondents associated with forestry schemes saw less need for revisions, but some were interested in supply chain sustainability criteria. Significant differences among schemes suggest it is crucial in the future to examine the tradeoffs between certification costs, schemes' inclusiveness, the quality of their substantive and procedural rules, and the subsequent effectiveness on‐the‐ground.WIREs Energy Environ2016, 5:89–118. doi: 10.1002/wene.166This article is categorized under:Bioenergy > Climate and Environment