bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regio‐ and Enantioselective Rhodium‐Catalyzed Addition of 1,3‐Diketones to Allenes: Construction of Asymmetric Tertiary and Quaternary All Carbon Centers
Authors: Beck Thorsten M. , Breit Bernhard
Published: January 2017

An unprecedented highly regio‐ and enantioselective rhodium‐catalyzed addition of 1,3‐diketones to terminal and 1,1‐disubstituted allenes furnishing asymmetric tertiary and quaternary all‐carbon centers is reported. By applying a RhI/phosphoramidite/TFA catalytic system under mild conditions, the desired chiral branched α‐allylated 1,3‐diketones could be obtained in good to excellent yields, with perfect regioselectivity and in high enantioselectivity. The reaction shows a broad functional‐group tolerance on both reaction partners highlighting its synthetic potential.
Colloidal Synthesis of CH3NH3PbBr3 Nanoplatelets with Polarized Emission through Self‐Organization
Authors: Liu Lige , Huang Sheng , Pan Longfei , Shi Li‐Jie , Zou Bingsuo , Deng Luogen , Zhong Haizheng
Published: January 2017

We report a combined experimental and theoretical study of the synthesis of CH3NH3PbBr3 nanoplatelets through self‐organization. Shape transformation from spherical nanodots to square or rectangular nanoplatelets can be achieved by keeping the preformed colloidal nanocrystals at a high concentration (3.5 mg mL−1) for 3 days, or combining the synthesis of nanodots with self‐organization. The average thickness of the resulting CH3NH3PbBr3 nanoplatelets is similar to the size of the original nanoparticles, and we also noticed several nanoplatelets with circular or square holes, suggesting that the shape transformation experienced a self‐organization process through dipole–dipole interactions along with a realignment of dipolar vectors. Additionally, the CH3NH3PbBr3 nanoplatelets exhibit excellent polarized emissions for stretched CH3NH3PbBr3 nanoplatelets embedded in a polymer composite film, showing advantageous photoluminescence properties for display backlights.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Asymmetric Allylic Dearomatization Reaction of Benzoxazoles, Benzothiazoles, and Benzimidazoles
Authors: Yang Ze‐Peng , Zheng Chao , Huang Lin , Qian Chao , You Shu‐Li
Published: January 2017

An iridium‐catalyzed intramolecular asymmetric allylic dearomatization reaction of benzoxazoles, benzothiazoles, and benzimidazoles was developed. The reaction was found to be compatible with a wide range of five‐membered‐ring electron‐deficient heteroaromatic compounds and furnished the corresponding dearomatized heterocycles in high yield with excellent enantioselectivity.
Analysis of the breeze circulations in Eastern Amazon: an observational study
Authors: Germano Michell Fontenelle , Vitorino Maria Isabel , Cohen Júlia Clarinda Paiva , Costa Gabriel Brito , Souto Jefferson Inayan de Oliveira , Rebelo Mayse Thais Correa , de Sousa Adriano Marlisom Leão
Published: January 2017

An observational analysis was conducted in five different cities in Eastern Amazonia, in order to detect the breeze circulations in the region. The frequency of wind direction, wind speed, and precipitation was analyzed along with estimated spatio‐temporal rainfall through the Climate Prediction Center Morphing Technique (CMORPH). The results show different types of breezes that occur in these cities, with regular time from 0900–2100 UTC for SB (sea breeze), 0000–0900 UTC for LB (land breeze), and 1200–0000 UTC for RB (river breeze). The SB has been shown to be more frequent from September to November (SON), while the LB is more prominent from March to May (MAM). However, the RB highlights throughout the whole year in Belém. The hour of occurrence of the SB circulation and the precipitation along the coast has shown a relationship.
Objective Bayesian modelling of insurance risks with the skewed Student‐t distribution
Authors: Leisen Fabrizio , Marin J. Miguel , Villa Cristiano
Published: January 2017

Insurance risks data typically exhibit skewed behaviour. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian approach to capture the main features of these data sets. This work extends a methodology recently introduced in the literature by considering an extra parameter that captures the skewness of the data. In particular, a skewed Student‐t distribution is considered. Two data sets are analysed: the Danish fire losses and the US indemnity loss. The analysis is carried with an objective Bayesian approach. For the discrete parameter representing the number of the degrees of freedom, we adopt a novel prior recently appeared in the literature. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carbohydrate–Lectin Interactions: An Unexpected Contribution to Affinity
Authors: Navarra Giulio , Zihlmann Pascal , Jakob Roman P. , Stangier Katja , Preston Roland C. , Rabbani Said , Smiesko Martin , Wagner Bea , Maier Timm , Ernst Beat
Published: January 2017

Uropathogenic E. coli exploit PapG‐II adhesin for infecting host cells of the kidney; the expression of PapG‐II at the tip of bacterial pili correlates with the onset of pyelonephritis in humans, a potentially life‐threatening condition. It was envisaged that blocking PapG‐II (and thus bacterial adhesion) would provide a viable therapeutic alternative to conventional antibiotic treatment. In our search for potent PapG‐II antagonists, we observed an increase in affinity when tetrasaccharide 1, the natural ligand of PapG‐II in human kidneys, was elongated to hexasaccharide 2, even though the additional Siaα(2–3)Gal extension is not in direct contact with the lectin. ITC studies suggest that the increased affinity results from partial desolvation of nonbinding regions of the hexasaccharide; this is ultimately responsible for perturbation of the outer hydration layers. Our results are in agreement with previous observations and suggest a general mechanism for modulating carbohydrate–protein interactions based on nonbinding regions of the ligand.
Synthesis and Physical Properties of Strained Doubly Phosphorus‐Bridged Biaryls and Viologens
Authors: Greulich Tobias W. , Yamaguchi Eriko , Doerenkamp Carsten , Lübbesmeyer Maximilian , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Fukazawa Aiko , Eckert Hellmut , Yamaguchi Shigehiro , Studer Armido
Published: January 2017

New P/N‐containing π‐electron systems comprising fully planar biaryl arrays are synthesized by multiple radical phosphanylation. The biaryl moiety in these highly strained planar π‐systems is rigidified by double P‐bridging. The electronic properties of the core biaryl entity are varied by introducing N‐donor substituents or by installing N‐atoms within the π‐system, thereby moving to the viologen core structure. The electrochemical and photophysical properties of these compounds are discussed and compared with those of related systems.
An Insight into the Interface through Excited‐State Carrier Dynamics for Promising Enhancement of Power Conversion Efficiency in a Mn‐Doped CdZnSSe Gradient Alloy
Authors: Debnath Tushar , Parui Kausturi , Maiti Sourav , Ghosh Hirendra N.
Published: January 2017

To explore the significance of impurity doping in power conversion efficiency, quaternary gradient CdZnSSe alloy nanocrystals (NCs) and its Mn‐doped analogues were synthesized by high‐temperature pyrolysis. The undoped and Mn‐doped CdZnSSe alloy NCs have been characterized by employing high‐resolution TEM, X‐ray diffraction, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy measurements. A low‐temperature injection of chalcogens led to a gradient interface in the alloy, comprised of a CdSe/CdS/ZnSe/ZnS nanostructure. Both steady‐state and ultrafast time‐resolved absorption studies suggested the formation of a charge‐transfer (CT) state due to the inner quasi‐type II CdSe/CdS part of the gradient CdZnSSe alloy NCs, in which electrons are delocalized throughout the conduction band (CB) of both CdSe and CdS. The CT‐state bleach recovery kinetics gave an additional slow electron cooling component (8 ps) in the undoped alloy NCs, which has been assigned to electron equilibration in the delocalized CB before recombination (or trapping). Interestingly, in the presence of dopant Mn, the slow electron cooling component became even more sluggish at 10 ps due to Mn‐mediated electron cooling, in which Mn acts as an electron storage center. An unprecedented increase in the photocurrent conversion efficiency (PCE) of approximately 30 % from (3.3±0.11) to (4.29±0.07) % was observed in the Mn‐doped gradient alloy compared with the undoped alloy.
Homogenous Persulfate and Periodate Photochemical Treatment of Furfural in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Saien Javad , Moradi Mehrdad , Soleymani Ali Reza
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to degrade and mineralize furfural as a pollutant in wastewater. For this purpose, homogeneous advanced oxidation processes of UV/potassium persulfate (UV/KPS) and UV/potassium periodate (UV/KPI), along with an upward flow photoreactor, equipped with an 8 W UV‐C lamp were employed. In order to design the experiments, modeling, and optimizations, central composite design method was used. Based on the results, the variation of furfural degradation efficiency(DE) with initial concentration of oxidants and media pH was presented by the proposed quadratic equations. After 25 min treatment, 45.1 and 93.8% DEs were obtained under the optimum conditions of pH 4.6, [KPS]0 = 2195.0 mg/L, and pH 5.1, [KPI]0 = 1817.0 mg/L, respectively, and 7.1 and 74.6% mineralization, based on COD criterion. Further, the concentration variation revealed that furfural degradation could follow the overall first‐order reaction kinetics. In addition, the operating cost was estimated and compared with other processes. Finally, the findings indicated that UV/KPS process is superior to other photochemical methods in furfural degradation.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Amidinourea and Triazine Congeners as Inhibitors of MDA‐MB‐231 Human Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Bass Rosemary , Jenkinson Sarah , Wright Jennifer , Smulders‐Srinivasan Tora , Marshall Jamie C. , Castagnolo Daniele
Published: January 2017

A series of novel amidinourea derivatives was synthesized, and the compounds were evaluated as inhibitors of MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer cell proliferation. In addition, a second series of triazine derivatives designed as rigid congeners of the amidinoureas was synthesized, and the compounds were evaluated for their antiproliferative activity. Among the two series, amidinourea 3 d (N‐[N‐[8‐[[N‐(morpholine‐4‐carbonyl)carbamimidoyl]amino]octyl]carbamimidoyl]morpholine‐4‐carboxamide) emerged as a potent anticancer hit compound with an IC50 value of 0.76 μm, similar to that of tamoxifen.
Development of cone photoreceptors and their synapses in the human and monkey fovea
Authors: Hendrickson Anita , Zhang Chi
Published: January 2017

During retinal development, ribbon synapse assembly in the photoreceptors is a crucial step involving numerous molecules. While the developmental sequence of plexiform layers in human retina has been characterized, the molecular steps of synaptogenesis remain largely unknown. In the present study, we focused on the central rod‐free region of primate retina, the fovea, to specifically investigate the development of cone photoreceptor ribbon synapses. Immunocytochemistry and electron microscopy were utilized to track the expression of photoreceptor transduction proteins and ribbon and synaptic markers in fetal human and Macaca retina. Although the inner plexiform layer appears earlier than the outer plexiform layer, synaptic proteins, and ribbons are first reliably recognized in cone pedicles. Markers first appear at fetal week 9. Both short (S) and medium/long (M/L) wavelength‐selective cones express synaptic markers in the same temporal sequence; this is independent of opsin expression which takes place in S cones a month before M/L cones. The majority of ribbon markers, presynaptic vesicular release and postsynaptic neurotransduction‐related machinery is present in both plexiform layers by fetal week 13. By contrast, two crucial components for cone to bipolar cell glutamatergic transmission, the metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 and voltage‐dependent calcium channel α1.4, are not detected until fetal week 22 when bipolar cell invagination is present in the cone pedicle. These results suggest an intrinsically programmed but nonsynchronous expression of molecules in cone synaptic development. Moreover, functional ribbon synapses and active neurotransmission at foveal cone pedicles are possibly present as early as mid‐gestation in human retina.
A thematic content analysis of #cheatmeal images on social media: Characterizing an emerging dietary trend
Authors: Pila Eva , Mond Jonathan M. , Griffiths Scott , Mitchison Deborah , Murray Stuart B.
Published: January 2017

Despite the pervasive social endorsement of “cheat meals” within pro‐muscularity online communities, there is an absence of empirical work examining this dietary phenomenon. The present study aimed to characterize cheat meals, and explore the meaning ascribed to engagement in this practice. Thematic content analysis was employed to code the photographic and textual elements of a sample (n = 600) that was extracted from over 1.6 million images marked with the #cheatmeal tag on the social networking site, Instagram. Analysis of the volume and type of food revealed the presence of very large quantities (54.5%) of calorie‐dense foods (71.3%) that was rated to qualify as an objective binge episode. Photographic content of people commonly portrayed highly‐muscular bodies (60.7%) in the act of intentional body exposure (40.0%). Meanwhile, textual content exemplified the idealization of overconsumption, a strict commitment to fitness, and a reward‐based framework around diet and fitness. Collectively, these findings position cheat meals as goal‐oriented dietary practices in the pursuit of physique‐ideals, thus underscoring the potential clinical repercussions of this socially‐endorsed dietary phenomenon.
The interactive effects of press/pulse intensity and duration on regime shifts at multiple scales
Authors: Ratajczak Zak , D'Odorico Paolo , Collins Scott L. , Bestelmeyer Brandon T. , Isbell Forest I. , Nippert Jesse B.
Published: January 2017

Regime shifts are difficult‐to‐reverse transitions that occur when an ecosystem reorganizes around a new set of self‐reinforcing feedbacks. Regime shifts are predicted to occur when the intensity of some exogenous driver variable, such as temperature, annual harvest rate, or nutrient addition rate, gradually approaches and crosses a threshold value, initiating a transition to an alternative state. However, many driver variables now change rapidly as presses or pulses, not gradually, requiring new conceptual frameworks for understanding and predicting regime shifts. We argue that identifying and controlling regime shifts in response to presses and pulses will require a greater focus on the duration, not just the intensity, of changes in driver variables. In ecosystems with slower dynamics, transitions to an alternative state can take years to decades and as a result, a driver press with an intensity capable of resulting in a regime shift over long time spans may fail to cause a regime shift when applied for shorter durations. We illustrate these ideas using simulations of local‐scale alternative stable state models and preliminary evidence from long‐term grazing and eutrophication experiments. The simulations also suggest that small changes in the duration of driver presses or pulses can determine whether an ecosystem recovers to its original state. These insights may extend to larger scales. In spatially extended simulations that included patchiness, spatial heterogeneity, and spatial connectivity, all patches recovered to their original state after shorter presses. However, once press duration exceeded a threshold, growing proportions of the landscape shifted to an alternative state as press duration increased. We observed similar patchy transitions in a catchment‐scale experiment that reinstated frequent fires approximately halfway through a regime shift from grassland to shrubland, initiated by fire suppression. In both the local‐ and larger‐scale models, the threshold duration needed to elicit regime shifts decreased as press intensity increased or when factors counteracting regime shifts weakened. These multiple lines of evidence suggest that conceptualizing regime shifts as an interactive function of the intensity and duration of driver changes will increase understanding of the varying effects of driver presses, pulses, and cycles on ecosystem dynamics.
Optimal defense theory explains deviations from latitudinal herbivory defense hypothesis
Authors: Kooyers Nicholas J. , Blackman Benjamin K. , Holeski Liza M.
Published: January 2017

The latitudinal herbivory defense hypothesis (LHDH) postulates that the prevalence of species interactions, including herbivory, is greater at lower latitudes, leading to selection for increased levels of plant defense. While latitudinal defense clines may be caused by spatial variation in herbivore pressure, optimal defense theory predicts that clines could also be caused by ecogeographic variation in the cost of defense. For instance, allocation of resources to defense may not increase plant fitness when growing seasons are short and plants must reproduce quickly. Here we use a common garden experiment to survey genetic variation for constitutive and induced phenylpropanoid glycoside (PPG) concentrations across 35 Mimulus guttatus populations over a ~13° latitudinal transect. Our sampling regime is unique among studies of the LHDH in that it allows us to disentangle the effects of growing season length from those of latitude, temperature, and elevation. For five of the seven PPGs surveyed, we find associations between latitude and plant defense that are robust to population structure. However, contrary to the LHDH, only two PPGs were found at higher levels in low latitude populations, and total PPG concentrations were higher at higher latitudes. PPG levels are strongly correlated with growing season length, with higher levels of PPGs in plants from areas with longer growing seasons. Further, flowering time is positively correlated with the concentration of nearly all PPGs, suggesting that there may be a strong trade‐off between development time and defense production. Our results reveal that ecogeographic patterns in plant defense may reflect variation in the cost of producing defense compounds in addition to variation in herbivore pressure. Thus, the biogeographic pattern predicted by the LHDH may not be accurate because the underlying factors driving variation in defense, in this case, growing season length, are not always associated with latitude in the same manner. Given these results, we conclude that LHDH cannot be interpreted without considering life history, and we recommend that future work on the LHDH move beyond solely testing the core LHDH prediction and place greater emphasis on isolating agents of selection that generate spatial variation in defense and herbivore pressure.
Synthesis and Structural Studies of Three‐Dimensional Supramolecular Motifs Derived from Neutral and Cationic Zinc Alkanesulfonates
Authors: Shankar Ravi , Singh Rohit , Mendiratta Swati , Jassal Amanpreet Kaur , Kociok‐Köhn Gabriele , Molloy Kieran C.
Published: January 2017

The one‐pot reactions between anhydrous zinc acetate, diethyl or di‐n‐propyl sulfite, and tetraalkylammonium iodide (120 °C, 12 h) proceed through sulfur‐centered Arbuzov‐type rearrangement to afford [R14N]2[Zn(OSO2R)4] [R1, R = Et (1); R1 = nBu, R = nPr (2)] bearing alkanesulfonate groups bound to the metal center. The zincate salts 1 and 2 are used as precursors for the synthesis of neutral and cationic coordination complexes, namely, [Zn(OSO2Et)2(bipy)(dmso)2] (3; bipy = 4,4′‐bipyridine, dmso = dimethyl sulfoxide), [Zn(OSO2nPr)2(bipy)2]·dmso·H2O (4), [Zn(bipy)(H2O)4](OSO2Et)2 (5), [Zn(H2O)6](OSO2Et)2 (6), and [Zn(H2O)6](OSO2nPr)2 (7). X‐ray crystallographic studies of 3–7 reveal that the alkanesulfonate groups act as prolific H‐bond acceptors and assist the transformation of zero‐, one‐, or two‐dimensional coordination frameworks into three‐dimensional structural motifs.
An investigation on the use of ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) in a plug‐flow reactor for water treatment
Authors: Almquist Catherine , Fyda Sarah , Godby Nate , Miller Michael E.
Published: January 2017

In this study, a small bench‐scale plug‐flow reactor was designed and characterized to demonstrate the feasibility of using UV/LEDs as a UV source in flow‐through advanced oxidation processes. The plug‐flow reactor was characterized by investigating the effects of residence time, H2O2/methylene blue molar ratio, and initial methylene blue concentration on methylene blue decolorization in water. Methylene blue was selected as a witness dye, because it does not degrade with H2O2 or with UV alone, and it has reduced absorption in the visible spectrum when reacted with OH radicals. UV/LEDs have been employed successfully in AOPs for water treatment in research‐scale systems, as demonstrated in this study. However, they currently have low optical output, which limits their applicability for water treatment to small point‐of‐use systems. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 857–863, 2017
Cultural adaptation of cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) for Chinese people with dementia: multicentre pilot study
Authors: Wong Gloria H. Y. , Yek Olive P. L. , Zhang Anna Y. , Lum Terry Y. S. , Spector Aimee
Published: January 2017

Objective

Ageing of the Chinese population will drive a continued surge in dementia prevalence. Empirically tested non‐pharmacological interventions developed in western cultures may be implemented in Chinese. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) that originated in the UK has proven benefits on cognition and quality of life in people with dementia. We investigated the feasibility and cultural appropriateness of CST in Hong Kong Chinese (CST‐HK).

Methods

Mixed methods research was conducted following the formative method for adapting psychotherapy. A culturally adapted CST‐HK, developed involving multidisciplinary stakeholders, was tested in a pilot multicentre study in people with mild dementia (n = 30) receiving community or residential care. Changes in cognition and quality of life were measured. Opinions from family caregivers and group facilitators (n = 25) were collected through focus groups and in‐depth interviews for understanding the appropriateness of CST‐HK. Feasibility was explored.

Results

After receiving CST‐HK, 54% of participants achieved outcome of no cognitive deterioration, and 23% showed clinically meaningful improvement. Family caregivers and group facilitators expressed good acceptance of CST, with a low attrition (13%) and high attendance rate of CST‐HK sessions (92%). Key cultural issues identified are (i) less active opinion sharing in group discussions due to conservatism/cautiousness and (ii) preference of practical activities with reward/recognition over pure discussion due to pragmatism.

Conclusions

The CST‐HK is feasible and culturally appropriate in Hong Kong Chinese. Further amendments can be made to ensure language use and enjoyment, with potential implications on effectiveness. We have provided a systematically developed, culturally adapted protocol for larger‐scale implementation and research in Chinese populations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prophylactic Antibiotic in Elective Gynaecological and Obstetrical Major Surgery
Authors: Sengupta Bijoy Sree , Wynter Hugh Hastings , Hall J. ST. Elmo , Ramchander R. , Alexis A. , Zamah N. , Gajraj Kamel
Published: January 2017

Sengupta, Bijoy Sree, Hastings Wynter, Hugh, Elmo Hall, J. St., Ramchander, R., Alexis, A., Zamah, Z. and Gajraj, K. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Dept. of Microbiology, University Hospital of the West Indies, Jamaica). Prophylactic antibiotic in elective gynaecological and obstetrical major surgery.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14: 417–424, 1976.

A prospective controlled study of 580 patients who underwent non‐radical major gynaecological or obstetrical surgery examined the use of prophylactic antibiotics. The test group of patients (290) showed a significantly lower (P=0.01) incidence of the total complications and the non‐infective complication rate as against those among controls (290). The duration of hospitalisation was significantly reduced for both vaginal and abdominal surgery in the test group of patients as against those in the controls. There was no evidence of increased incidence of bacterial resistance or superinfection. The authors recommend the use of prophylactic antibiotic on a short term basis (for a total duration of 4 days), commencing preoperatively to achieve a significant reduction in the infective postoperative morbidity and a shorter stay by the patients.
The Effect of Miconazole on Vulvo‐Vaginal Candidosis in Pregnant and Non‐pregnant Women and their Partners
Authors: Brundin Jan
Published: January 2017

Brundin, J. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Danderyd's Hospital, Danderyd, Sweden). The effect of Miconazole on vulvo‐vaginal candidosis in pregnant and non‐pregnant women and their partners.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14: 537–540, 1976.

Miconazole cream1 (Daktar vaginal cream 2%, Leo) given for 12–14 days was tested in 85 subjects with positive vaginal Candida culture. Eighty percent of the patients were pregnant. Healing was observed in 93% of the cases. Treatment of the sexual partner did not influence the therapeutic effect.
Naphthylamidase Isoenzymes in Serum during Treatment with Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Beckman G. , Beckman L. , Helgason S. , Von Schoultz B.
Published: January 2017

Alterations in serum naphthylamidase isoenzymes were studied in a series of 95 women treated with oral contraceptives. Women taking progestin pills showed no reaction, while the majority of women using combined oral contraceptives showed an extra serum naphthylamidase zone after one month. The frequency of women showing “the naphthylamidase reaction” increased with the estrogen dose. The results indicate that the naphthylamidase reaction may be developed into a sensitive test for early disturbances in liver metabolism during treatment with oral contraceptives.
Pre‐ovulatory and Post‐ovulatory Overripeness
Authors: Butcher Roy L.
Published: January 2017

Experimental work using animal models suggests that alterations of the oocyte during either a delay of ovulation or a delay of fertilization could account for a major percentage of human birth defects. The mechanism by which detrimental changes in the oocyte occur during these delays is not known. Hormonal modifications just prior to ovulation could initiate biochemical processes in the oocyte which proceed to an abnormal sequence of events when ovulation or fertilization does not take place at the optimum time. Alternately, the oocyte may be programmed earlier in its growth phase and undergo degenerative changes if ovulation or fertilization does not occur at the programmed times. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in both pre‐ovulatory and post‐ovulatory overripeness of the oocyte could ultimately lead to a reduction in the incidence of human developmental anomalies.
Hemodynamic Effects Of Oral Contraceptives During Exercise
Authors: Lehtovirta Pentti , Kuikka Jyrki , Pyörälä Tapani
Published: January 2017

The effects of a combined oral contraceptive pill on female hemodynamics during exercise were studied in 14 young, healthy women. The increase in blood volume, stroke volume, and cardiac output during exercise was significantly greater during combined oral contraceptive therapy than when the patients were not taking the pill. The use of combined oral contraceptive pills may be advantageous to the physical fitness of female athletes.
The Relationship Between Congenital Defects and the Use of Exogenous Progestational “Contraceptive” Hormones During Pregnancy: A 20‐Year Review
Authors: Keith Louis , Berger Gary S.
Published: January 2017

This review of 20 years of medical literature on the occurrence of congenital defects among offspring of women who ingested “progestational” or contraceptive hormones during pregnancy emphasizes the need for additional studies with carefully selected control groups. Other problems encountered in interpreting the existing literature, including the use of imprecise definitions, confusing nomenclature and inadequate clinical information, are also discussed.
Liver Tumors and Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Kent Deryck R. , Nissen Edward D. , Nissen Steven E.
Published: January 2017

Data on 78 cases of benign hepatic neoplasia among women with a history of oral contraceptive (OC) use are analyzed. Data for the study were collected by the Liver Tumor Registry of the University of California Irvine Medical Center. Factors considered in the analyses include the patient's age and duration of OC therapy, histopathology of the tumors, and their symptoms, findings, and prognosis. The pathogenesis and treatment of the tumors are also discussed.
An Evaluation of Studies Concerning Reproduction After First Trimester Induced Abortion
Authors: Hogue Carol J. R.
Published: January 2017

This report gives an estimate of the United States population at risk of fertility complications after legally induced abortion. It also includes a review of the published literature concerning long‐term effects of abortion, such as secondary infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and adverse pregnancy complications.
Methods of Midtrimester Abortion: Which Is Safest?
Authors: Grimes David A. , Schulz Kenneth F. , Cates Willard , Tyler Carl W.
Published: January 2017

In the United States, the three principal methods of abortion for patients at 13 or more menstrual weeks' gestation are intraamniotic instillation of saline or prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) and dilatation and evacuation (D&E). The relative safety of these methods, however, has not been established. This report compares the three methods using data on 17467 abortions collected by the Joint Program for the Study of Abortion under the auspices of the Center for Disease Control (JPSA/CDC). Abortion by D&E was found to be significantly safer than abortion by saline instillation (p<0.001), and abortion by saline instillation was significantly safer than by PGF2α (p<0.01). Moreover, midtrimester D&E is both safe and practical; it is a direct and rapid procedure which can be performed on an outpatient basis. Although PGF2α accelerated the time required for abortion, it also significantly increased serious morbidity.
Worldwide Controversies in Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasms
Authors: Goldstein Donald P.
Published: January 2017

This article reviews worldwide controversies concerning gestational trophoblastic neoplasms (hydatidiform mole, invasive mole, and choriocarcinoma). The epidemiology, endocrinology, histopathologic grading, classification, diagnosis, treatment, management and follow‐up (including chemotherapy, irradiation, and immunotherapy) of gestational trophoblastic neoplasms—particularly molar pregnancies—are discussed; and ways to help create a standardized classification system and provide optimal treatment for each type of patient are suggested.
Clinical and Hormonal Response of Patients with Galactorrhea Syndrome Treated with Bromergocryptine
Authors: Sarram M. , Salimi M. R. , Riazi T. , Kamran T. , Wenn R. V.
Published: January 2017

Ten patients with galactorrhea syndrome were treated with two different daily dosages (5 mg and 7.5 mg) of Bromergocryptine. The 5 mg daily dosage often did not produce the desired hormonal and clinical response. Five patients were treated with this regimen for 38 to 90 days, with treatment extending over more than one menstrual cycle. However, the 7.5 mg daily dosage resulted in complete cessation of galactorrhea in all patients, restoration of menstrual cycles in five patients, and pregnancies in four patients.* Disappearance of lactation proved to be a very good indicator of the general responsiveness of patients. Nausea, vomiting, and occasional dizziness were side effects of the drug. The case histories and hormonal findings of four typical patients are reported.
Postabortion Insertions of the Pleated Membrane
Authors: Tacla Ximena , Mitra Meera , Baeza Ruth
Published: January 2017

The pleated or intrauterine membrane (IUM) was designed to fit a range of uterine sizes and shapes and to adjust to transient changes resulting from uterine motility. The retention and contraceptive abilities of postabortion IUM insertions are analyzed in this study of 154 IUM insertions made within 3 days of treatment for an incomplete or inevitable abortion.

Results indicate low 1‐year net cumulative event rates for pregnancy (1.7 per 100 users), expulsion (7.2 per 100 users), and removal for bleeding and/or pain (3.9 per 100 users). These rates were similar to those reported in a study of interval insertions of the IUM; moreover, these results also compared favorably with corresponding rates of postabortion insertions reported in studies using other devices. Thus, the postabortion period is indicated as being an effective time for IUM insertion.
Birth Interval Study in a Culturally Stable Urban Population
Authors: Ayangade S. Okun
Published: January 2017

Five hundred women were interviewed within 2 days of delivery to examine indigenous birth spacing among the urban and rural population of Ife township. The crude birth interval was between 30 and 40 months due mainly to cultural attitudes towards lactation and sexual abstinence. The women studied possessed considerable knowledge of Western contraceptive methods, but they rejected them. The possible cause of this rejection is examined and solutions to the problem are suggested.
Asherman's Syndrome—A Self‐Limiting Disease?
Authors: Glezerman Marek , Levin Samuel , Bernstein Dinu
Published: January 2017

Intrauterine adhesions (Asherman's syndrome) may follow curettage in a recently pregnant uterus. Treatment consisting of dilatation and curettage and possibly the insertion of an intrauterine device usually is started early. The success rate is high. Very few cases of spontaneous recurring menstruation have been reported, and none of them have been based on hysterosalpingographic evidence of adhesions. The pregnancy outcome is generally poor in those cases of assumed spontaneous resolution. We present a case of spontaneous restitution of a functional uterine cavity and normal menstruation following Asherman's syndrome. Subsequent pregnancy was uneventful. A short review of the literature is presented, and the possible self‐limiting character of the disease is discussed.
Laparoscopic Sterilization with Spring‐Loaded Clip and Tubal Ring in Postabortal Cases—One‐Year Follow‐up
Authors: Khandwala S. D. , Pachauri Saroj , Nayak P. G. , Pai D. N.
Published: January 2017

This study was conducted in Bombay, India, to evaluate and compare the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic application of the spring‐loaded clip and the tubal ring in 300 immediate postabortion patients. The two techniques were randomly assigned to the study subjects and, to minimize interoperation variability, performed by the same operator. Another physician, unaware of the procedure used, evaluated and cared for the patient after surgery. All but one of these women returned for follow‐up 7–21 days after sterilization, and 74.7% and 81.3%, respectively, of the clip and tubal ring groups reported for the six‐ and 12‐month follow‐up visits.

There was one technical failure among the tubal ring cases. Surgical difficulties were encountered in 7.3% of the clip and 8.0% of the ring procedures. The incidence of complications until the first follow‐up visit was significantly higher for the clip (9.3%) than for the ring (4.7%) cases, although none of a serious nature were reported. There were significantly more immediate postoperative complaints among subjects sterilized with the ring than with the clip, but the incidence of early postoperative complaints was similar for the two groups. The rate of pelvic pathology was low at six and 12 months after sterilization, and none of these patients required surgery within a year of sterilization. Three of the women sterilized with the spring‐loaded clip, but none of those sterilized with the tubal ring, became pregnant. Thus, while both devices were associated with clinically acceptable morbidity, the tubal ring was found to be the more effective.
First Trimester Abortion by Vacuum Aspiration: Interphysician Variability
Authors: Miller Eva R. , Wood J. L. , Andolsek Lidija , Ogrinc‐Oven da
Published: January 2017

This study compares the performances of four physicians using two types of plastic cannulae (flexible and rigid) for 1100 vacuum aspiration procedures. The criteria for assessing physician performance by cannula type were: (a) frequency of cannula obstructions, (b) amount of retained tissue obtained by sharp curettage after vacuum aspiration, (c) estimated blood loss during the procedure and (d) time required to perform the procedure. Data for each physician were compared and yielded significantly different results. The length of time required to use the cannula differed significantly among physicians; two of them had significantly shorter cannula times with the flexible instrument. The others had the lowest distributions of blood loss and the most difference between cannula usage. Consistent grouping over several variables suggests that differences in these criteria are more likely to be attributable to subtle distinctions in operator technique than to variations in equipment.
The Effect of Maternal Age, Parity, Fetal Sex and Season upon Early Intrauterine Development
Authors: Iffy Leslie , Lavenhar Marvin , Kaminetzky Harold A. , Jongbloet Piet H. , Wingate Martin B. , Jakobovits Antal
Published: January 2017

This report presents the results of a computer analysis of 1672 specimens of embryonic material which were obtained by induced abortion in normal pregnancies. The study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of maternal age, parity, fetal sex and seasonal variations on the growth rate of embryos and fetuses which were between six and 20 weeks' gestation. Two parameters of intrauterine growth were analyzed: (a) the relation between menstrual age and crown‐to‐rump length and (b) the crown‐to‐rump length versus the body weight ratio. None of the quoted factors seemed to affect the linear growth of the embryo or fetus. The correlations between fetal crown‐to‐rump length and body weight were not influenced by maternal age, parity or fetal sex. Significant (p < 0.001) differences in early intrauterine growth rates were detected in relation to the season of conception. The rate of increase of body weight was far above average in those embryos and fetuses conceived during the summer months, while the opposite was the case when the conception occurred in the fall. An increase in the rate of the weight gain was demonstrated among the products of conceptions which occurred in the winter. There were insufficient data about those fetuses that resulted from conceptions which occurred in the spring.
A Follow‐up of Tubectomy Clients in Bangladesh
Authors: Swenson Ingrid , Jahan Farida Akhtar , Khan Atiqur Rahman
Published: January 2017

Five hundred twenty‐one tubectomy clients from two health centers and one sterilization camp were interviewed 1–4 years after their tubectomies to determine: (a) demographic characteristics, (b) reasons for selecting tubectomy and (c) long‐term satisfaction. Essentially no differences in demographic characteristics or long‐term satisfaction were observed between urban and rural clients or by the type of center where the tubectomies were performed. Means ages of the clients were 31–32 years; mean parity was 7. Fifty‐four percent of the rural and 85% of the urban patients had used contraceptives before tubectomy. Ninety‐five percent or more of the patients stated that they were satisfied with the tubectomy.
Further Experience with a Capillary Tube Pregnancy Test
Authors: Lau H. Lorrin , Lawrence Katharine W. , King Theodore M.
Published: January 2017

Further evaluation of the nonrefrigerated capillary tube pregnancy test is presented. A 127‐mm by 2‐mm glass capillary tube containing lyophilized antibody to human chorionic gonadotropin and latex indicator particles is used. Urine is drawn into the tube by capillary action; then, the tube is tilted to allow the urine to dissolve the antibody and to suspend the latex particles. The test results are read after a one‐hour incubation period. Test results were evaluated against histopathologic and clinical data. Special efforts were made to stress the false‐positive rate of the test by tripling the number of negative cases and doubling the sample size. A 99.82% agreement, a 0.18% false‐negative rate and a 0% false‐positive rate were obtained. In 52 confirmed pregnancies, the more sensitive capillary test detected human chorionic gonadotropin, whereas the commercial tests did not. Human chorionic gonadotropin was also detected one week earlier than reported in the first series.
Maternal Mortality in an Israeli Hospital: A Review of 23 Years
Authors: Kessler I. , Lancet M. , Rozenman D.
Published: January 2017

In spite of great strides in obstetrics, maternal mortality has not been completely eliminated. Possible changes in the causes of mortality are examined for three periods of time (1954–1961, 1962–1971 and 1972–1976). The overall incidence was 3.6/10 000, changing through the three periods from 4.9 to 4.3 and finally to 3.0/10 000. Vascular accidents were the cause of death in almost one third of the cases, emerging as the most important etiologic factor. Older age and higher parity did not seem to influence the incidence of obstetric deaths. Cesarean section was involved in ten of 23 cases in which the death was directly related to the pregnancy and delivery. In six patients there was a rupture of the uterus. The number of preventable deaths has decreased steadily, but research into the problem of vascular accidents and a dampening of the enthusiasm for cesarean sections may further improve the situation.
Fetal Absorption of 3H‐Leucine Injected into the Amniotic Sacs of Pregnant Rats
Authors: Lev Robert , Loud Alden V. , Laitio Matti , Orlic Donald
Published: January 2017

When injected into the amniotic sacs of fetal rats in late pregnancy, 3H‐leucine is rapidly absorbed and incorporated into fetal proteins as determined by liquid scintillation spectrometry. Peak values in the fetal liver and pancreas occur around four hours after injection. Approximately 21% of the radioisotope is retained in the injected fetus at 24 hours. The remainder escapes into the maternal circulation and accounts for a gradual increase in levels in noninjected fetuses from the same litter and for persistently high counts found in maternal serum as late as 24 hours after the injection. Specific activity of the radioisotope in fetal tissues is considerably higher (100‐ to 200‐fold) when 3H‐leucine is injected into the amniotic sac rather than intravenously into the mother. The possible treatment of various fetal disorders by means of intra‐amniotic injections is discussed.
Heat Loss in Nigerian Newborn Infants in the Delivery Room
Authors: Omene J. A. , Diejomaoh F. M. E. , Faal M. , Diakparomre M. A. , Obiaya M.
Published: January 2017

Fifty‐three vigorous infants were randomly assigned to six different groups (A–F). The babies in groups A and F were not dried and were either exposed wet to room air or warmed under the radiant heater. The other groups of infants were quickly dried and exposed to room air (group B), wrapped with one sterile sheet (group C), wrapped with two towels (group D) or placed under the radiant heater (group E). The infants exposed to room air lost twice the amount of heat when compared with those insulated with two towels. The amount of heat loss by evaporation could not be demonstrated. The role of high relative humidity as an important determinant of the degree of heat loss by evaporation is stressed.
A Comparative Study of the Efficiency of Hydroxyprogesterone Caproate and of Chlormadinone Acetate in the Prevention of Premature Labor
Authors: Bréart Gérard , Lanfranchi Michel , Chavigny Charlette , Rumeau‐Rouquette Claude , Sureau Claude
Published: January 2017

The efficacy of caproate of hydroxyprogesterone and acetate of chlormadinone in preventing premature labore was compared in a controlled trial. The survey was based on 211 pregnant women with a high risk of premature delivery discovered during clinical examination. There are no significant differences between the two groups in either length of gestation, delay between the beginning of treatment and delivery or other parameters related to prematurity. The absence of evidence suggesting any significant difference between the two treatments can have three possible causes (which are discussed): the methodology, the inefficacy of the two products or the equivalent efficacy of the two products.
The Effect of Castration and Estrogen Therapy on Serum High‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
Authors: Punnonen R. , Rauramo L.
Published: January 2017

The effect of castration on serum high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was studied in 11 women with fairly regular menstruation. The HDL cholesterol levels before and one month after castration did not differ significantly. The effect of intramuscular estrogen therapy on HDL cholesterol was investigated in six castrated women. Ten days after injections of both 10.0 mg of estradiol valerate and 2.5 mg of estradiol benzoate plus 10.0 mg of estradiol phenylpropionate, HDL cholesterol was increased significantly. Fifteen days later, HDL cholesterol levels returned to the pretreatment values.
Effects of Lactation on Hormonal Levels in Rural Women
Authors: de C. Thelma E. Canto , de A. Fernando Sosa Martinez , G. Raul Baquedano , C. Rosario Piña
Published: January 2017

Luteinizing hormone, follicle‐stimulating hormone and prolactin levels were compared in ten rural and ten urban women, all of whom were experiencing lactational amenorrhea. The values of luteinizing hormone and follicle‐stimulating hormone were similar in both groups. The prolactin levels were significantly elevated in the rural group.
Neonatal Herpesvirus Sepsis Following Internal Monitoring
Authors: Katz Miriam , Greco M. Alba , Antony Liza , Young Bruce K.
Published: January 2017

The use of internal monitoring, in which an electrode is attached to the fetal scalp, may be associated with serious complications. The authors present a case of fetal neonatal sepsis due to herpesvirus arising at the electrode site.
Uterine Fibroleiomyomata with Aortic Lymph Node Metastases
Authors: Deppe Gunter , Clachko Marc , Deligdisch Liane , Cohen Carmel J.
Published: January 2017

This is a report of extensive metastases of histologically benign uterine leiomyomas to para‐aortic lymph nodes in a 32‐year‐old woman. The pathologic features and clinical characteristics are described, and the previously recorded experience with this rare entity is reviewed.
Postirradiation Vaginal Occlusion: Nonoperative Management
Authors: Poma Pedro A.
Published: January 2017

The effects of irradiation therapy on the surrounding pelvic structures are well known. Most women develop some degree of vaginal stenosis following irradiation for cervical cancer. Although complete vaginal occlusion is less common, it seriously affects the patient's self‐image. The author treated five patients who had complete vaginal occlusion following irradiation for stage II uterine cervical carcinoma. By means of a regimen of digital pressure and an estrogenic cream, for an average interval of six weeks, the function of the vagina was restored.
Hydatidiform Mole with Large Ovarian Cysts and Venous Thrombosis: A Case Report
Authors: Årstad Bergljot Holm , Bergsjø Per , Eie Harald
Published: January 2017

A 24‐year‐old gravida 1 with benign molar pregnancy, which was evacuated after 12 weeks of amenorrhea, developed ovarian cysts that reached the costal margin. Afterwards, she developed thrombosis, which occluded the superior vena cava as well as the right axillary vein. Treatment with streptokinase, followed by heparin and warfarin sodium, apparently resulted in a clinically complete cure. The ovarian cysts regressed spontaneously, and regular menstrual cycles recurred.