bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel zinc‐binding alcohol dehydrogenase 2 from Arachis diogoi, expressed in resistance responses against late leaf spot pathogen, induces cell death when transexpressed in tobacco
Authors: Kumar Dilip , Rampuria Sakshi , Singh Naveen Kumar , Kirti Pulugurtha B.
Published: February 2016

A novel zinc‐binding alcohol dehydrogenase 2 (AdZADH2) was significantly upregulated in a wild peanut, Arachis diogoi treated with conidia of late leaf spot (LLS) pathogen, Phaeoisariopsis personata. This upregulation was not observed in a comparative analysis of cultivated peanut, which is highly susceptible to LLS. This zinc‐binding alcohol dehydrogenase possessed a Rossmann fold containing NADB domain in addition to the MDR domain present in all previously characterized plant ADH genes/proteins. Transient over‐expression of AdZADH2 under an estradiol inducible promoter (XVE) resulted in hypersensitive response (HR)‐like cell death in tobacco leaf. However, the same level of cell death was not observed when the domains were transiently expressed individually. Cell death observed in tobacco was associated with overexpression of cell death related proteins, antioxidative enzymes such as SOD, CAT and APX and pathogenesis‐related (PR) proteins. In A. diogoi, AdZADH2 expression was significantly upregulated in response to the plant signaling hormones salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, and sodium nitroprusside.
Parkinson disease and progressive supranuclear palsy: protein expression in skin
Authors: Rodríguez‐Leyva Ildefonso , Chi‐Ahumada Erika G. , Carrizales Juan , Rodríguez‐Violante Mayela , Velázquez‐Osuna Salvador , Medina‐Mier Verónica , Martel‐Gallegos María G. , Zarazúa Sergio , Enríquez‐Macías Lourdes , Castro Adriana , Calderón–Garcidueñas Ana Laura , Jiménez‐Capdeville María E.
Published: February 2016

Objective

This study characterizes the expression of tau (p‐tau) and α‐synuclein (α‐syn) by immunohistochemistry in the skin of three different populations: healthy control (HC), Parkinson disease (PD), and progressive supranuclear paralysis (PSP) subjects, with the purpose of finding a biomarker that could differentiate between subjects with PD and PSP.

Material and Methods

We evaluated the presence of p‐tau and α‐syn in a pilot study in the skin of three distinct groups of patients: 17 healthy subjects, 17 patients with PD, and 10 patients with PSP. Four millimeters punch biopsies were obtained from the occipital area and analyzed by immunohistochemistry using antibodies against α‐syn and phosphorylated species of tau. PHF (paired helical filaments) antibody identifies p‐tau in both normal and pathological conditions and AT8 recognizes p‐tau characteristic of pathological conditions. Differences between the three groups were assessed by quantification of immunopositive areas in the epidermis.

Results

The immunopositivity pattern of p‐tau and α‐syn was significantly different among the three groups. Healthy subjects showed minimal staining using AT8 and α‐syn. The PD group showed significantly higher α‐syn and AT8 immunopositivity, while the PSP group only expressed higher AT8 immunopositivity than HCs.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the skin reflects brain pathology. Therefore, immunohistochemical analysis of p‐tau and α‐syn in the skin can be useful for further characterization of PD and PSP.
Second‐order sliding mode output feedback controller with adaptation
Authors: Negrete‐Chávez Daniel Y. , Moreno Jaime A.
Published: February 2016

An adaptive second‐order sliding mode output feedback controller is developed to deal with the case that the bound of the uncertainty/perturbation is unknown. The control structure consists in a twisting controller and a super‐twisting observer to estimate the unmeasured variable. The gains of the controller and observer are parametrized in terms of a scalar gain, such that increasing these two gains, it is always possible to find values to (finite‐time) stabilize the closed loop system. Finally, adaptive gain laws are provided to increase the controller and the observer gains until the closed loop has been stabilized. The main technical contribution of the paper is to give a sound and non‐trivial Lyapunov analysis of this otherwise intuitively simple idea. We illustrate the performance of the proposed controller by means of experimental results in a laboratory setup. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multigaps Embedded Nanoassemblies Enhance In Situ Raman Spectroscopy for Intracellular Telomerase Activity Sensing
Authors: Xu Liguang , Zhao Sen , Ma Wei , Wu Xiaoling , Li Si , Kuang Hua , Wang Libing , Xu Chuanlai
Published: February 2016

The highly sensitive and quantitative biodetection of intracellular telomerase is challenging. A DNA‐driven nanoparticle self‐assembling pyramid encoding a Raman reporter (Cy5) is reported that detects telomerase in live cells. In the presence of the target, the telomerase primer is extended and the inner DNA chain is replaced, leading to the reduction in the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) signal and the simultaneous recovery of the fluorescent signal. The SERS signal has a linear range for the detection of telomerase in situ of 1 × 10–14 to 5 × 10–11 IU, with a limit of detection of 6.2 × 10–15 IU. The fluorescent signal is used to confirm the intracellular telomerase activity, demonstrating the efficacy of the designed pyramid probe. This biosensing strategy provides a reliable and ultrasensitive protocol for the quantification of biomarkers in living cells.
Noninvasive Transdermal Vaccination Using Hyaluronan Nanocarriers and Laser Adjuvant
Authors: Kim Ki Su , Kim Hyemin , Park Yunji , Kong Won Ho , Lee Seung Woo , Kwok Sheldon J. J. , Hahn Sei Kwang , Yun Seok Hyun
Published: February 2016

Vaccines are commonly administered by injection using needles. Although transdermal microneedles are less invasive promising alternatives, needle‐free topical vaccination without involving physical damage to the natural skin barrier is still sought after as it can further reduce needle‐induced anxiety and is simple to administer. However, this long‐standing goal has been elusive since the intact skin is impermeable to most macromolecules. Here, we show an efficient, noninvasive transdermal vaccination by employing two key innovations: the use of hyaluronan (HA) as vaccine carriers and non‐ablative laser adjuvants. Conjugates of a model vaccine ovalbumin (OVA) and HA—HA–OVA conjugates—induced more effective maturation of dendritic cells in vitro, compared to OVA. Following topical administration in the skin, HA–OVA conjugates penetrated into the epidermis and dermis in murine and porcine skins, as revealed by intravital microscopy and fluorescence assay. Topical administration of HA‐OVA conjugates significantly elevated both humoral and mucosal antibodies, with peak levels at four weeks. An OVA challenge at week eight elicited strong immune‐recall responses. With pretreatment of the skin using non‐ablative fractional laser beams as adjuvant, strong immunization was achieved with much reduced doses of HA–OVA (1 mg kg–1 OVA). Our results demonstrate the potential of the noninvasive patch‐type transdermal vaccination platform.
Heterogeneity identified at birth and blood pressure in adulthood
Authors: Gage Timothy B. , Lee Furrina F. , O'Neill Erin K. , Napierala JEFF , Dirienzo Gregory
Published: February 2016

Objective

In the developmental programming literature, the association of birth weight and blood pressure later in life is modest at best. This article reexamines this issue using Covariate Density Defined mixture of regressions (CDDmr) to determine if a latent variable, based on birth weight, and known to influence infant mortality, provides a stronger indicator of developmental programming.

Methods

CDDmr identifies two latent components in the birth weight distribution, generally interpreted in the infant mortality literature as “compromised” and “normal” fetal development. The data are taken from the 1958 British National Child Development Study.

Results

In the 1958 cohort, the “compromised” component consists of about 10% of the birth weight distribution. Compared to “normal” births, the mean systolic blood pressure at age 45 of “compromised” births is 20.3 (females) and 26.4 (males) mm Hg higher than “normal” births. The relative risks of stage‐I‐II systolic hypertension (>140 mm Hg) of “compromised” births compared to “normal” births are 10.7 (females) and 4.2 (males). The relative risks of stage‐II systolic hypertension (>160 mm Hg) are considerably higher, 241.6 (females) and 74.3 (males). In general, the highest blood pressures are observed in “compromised” births with birth weights within the normal (about 3.0–3.5 kg) birth weight range. Results for diastolic blood pressure are similar.

Conclusions

These associations are much stronger than those identified using conventional methods. CDDmr is likely to be useful for studying the dynamics of developmental programming particularly in large cohort studies where birth weight is often the only indicator of programming available. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:545–554, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gynecologic findings in Goltz syndrome: A case series
Authors: Adeyemi‐Fowode Oluyemisi A. , Mansouri Roshanak , Dietrich Jennifer E.
Published: February 2016

There is limited information available related to the gynecologic findings in Goltz syndrome. We report exclusively on external genitalia findings in 17 girls with a known diagnosis of focal dermal hypoplasia. This is the largest series to date. Some of our findings have been reported previously; however, some novel features including short perineum body not previously mentioned are noted as well. We recommend referral to a pediatric gynecologist for early evaluation of the reproductive tract as this can have an impact on the future fertility of these girls. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
South to south learning in great ape conservation
Authors: Schoneveld‐de Lange Nicolien , Meijaard Erik , Löhr Ansje
Published: February 2016

Despite evidence that killing of Bornean Orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) in South‐East Asia is a major threat to the species, few researchers and non‐governmental conservationists have addressed it in management and research, and there is virtually no implementation of anti‐killing strategies. In large parts of the Congo Basin, Central Africa, instead, illegal killing of great apes is acknowledged to be their largest threat, and many conservation strategies have been used to reduce killing pressure. However, since these strategies have not been subject to systematic and comprehensive review, it remains unclear which of them have been successful and why. Knowledge of the success, failure, and practices of common conservation strategies to manage great ape killing is critical to ensure adaptive conservation management in the Congo Basin. Understanding the Congo context also facilitates simultaneously highlighting great ape killing in Borneo and suggesting solutions to manage orangutan killing. Here, we compile and analyze the available literature on great ape conservation strategies for reducing killing rates in the Congo Basin. Through a systematic literature review of 198 publications, we find that the most widely employed conservation strategies in the Congo Basin are legislation and law enforcement, protected area management, community‐based conservation, alternatives to bushmeat consumption and trade, ecotourism, education, and capacity building. Despite lack of rigorous post‐intervention evaluation of conservation impact, we derive several recommendations for addressing the orangutan killing issue in Borneo. A critical lesson, widely applicable to developing countries for conservationists and not limited to Congo Basin realities, is the need for rigorous post‐intervention evaluations compared to pre‐intervention baselines and over appropriate time frames. Am. J. Primatol. 78:669–678, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Poly(lactic acid) fibers obtained by solution blow spinning: Effect of a greener solvent on the fiber diameter
Authors: da Silva Parize Delne Domingos , de Oliveira Juliano Elvis , Foschini Milene Mitsuyuki , Marconcini José Manoel , Mattoso Luiz Henrique Capparelli
Published: February 2016

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) fibers has been obtained by solution blow spinning (SBS) using different solvents, however most of them are toxic and can be dangerous to human health or cause harm to the environment. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the use of dimethyl carbonate (DMC), a greener solvent, on the production of PLA fibers by SBS using surface response analysis to evaluate and compare the influence of three solvents (chloroform, DMC, and 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoro‐2‐propanol, HFP) in the average fiber diameter. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the fiber morphology and different ranges of fiber diameter was observed when varying the solvents (chloroform: 260–970 nm; DMC: 240–650 nm; and HFP: 220–470 nm). Regression analysis showed the polymer concentration was significant for all solvents and the air pressure was significant when using chloroform and HFP. Regardless of the air pressure, increasing the PLA concentration increased the average fiber diameters for all solvents. Chloroform and HFP indicated a tendency of reduction on the average fiber diameter when the air pressure was decreased, however this behavior was not observed for DMC. It was also observed that the standard deviation indicated to be more affected by the polymer concentration than by the air pressure. The results also indicated that lower surface tension and viscosity can reduce fiber thickness. All solvents showed to be feasible to produce PLA fibers by SBS and DMC can be used to produce PLA fibers with an affordable price using a greener process. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43379.
Characterization of nanoclay intercalation during foaming with in situ energy‐dispersive X‐ray diffraction
Authors: Escudero J. , Notario B. , Jimenez C. , Rodriguez‐Perez M. A.
Published: February 2016

The effect of the foaming process on the intercalation of nanoclays in low‐density polyethylene–nanoclay nanocomposites was studied with in situ energy‐dispersive X‐ray diffraction (ED‐XRD) with synchrotron radiation as an X‐ray source. The solid nanocomposites containing different amounts of an organomodified montmorillonite were melt‐blended with blowing agents of different nature and later foamed by heating at atmospheric pressure. During the foaming process, ED‐XRD experiments were performed. These experiments allowed us to measure the time evolution of the interlamellar distance of the clay platelets during the melting and foaming of the nanocomposites; we obtained information about the evolution of the clay structure during the process. The experimental results show that the foaming process induced the intercalation of the clays independently of the blowing agent used. We also proved that the degree of intercalation depended on the expansion ratio reached and that the intercalation produced was larger when the blowing agent was azodicarbonamide. For this particular blowing agent, some interesting effects appeared; these included a catalytic effect of the clays on the decomposition temperature, a partial intercalation of the clays during melt blending, and a very stable structure of the clay particles after foaming. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43432.
Ein Rechenmodell zur Vorbemessung der Querkrafttragfähigkeit älterer Spannbetonbrücken
Authors: Strauß Peter
Published: February 2016

Es wird ein Rechenmodell vorgestellt, das zur Vorbemessung beim Nachweis der Querkrafttragfähigkeit älterer parallelgurtiger Spannbetonbrücken angewendet werden kann. Das Nachweisverfahren leitet sich aus dem Prinzip vom Minimum der Formänderungsenergie ab und berücksichtigt den Betontraganteil der Querkrafttragfähigkeit über den rechnerischen Ansatz einer begrenzten Mitwirkung der Betonzugfestigkeit.

A model for pre‐designing the shear bearing capacity of elder prestressed bridges

It is presented a structural model that can be applied for pre‐designing for the assessment of the shear bearing capacity of elder prestressed concrete bridges. The design procedure is derived from the principle of the minimum of strain energy and takes into account the part of concrete bearing capacity of the shear bearing capacity with a design approach of a limited involvement of the concrete tensile strength.
Meta-analysis of antegrade continence enema in adults with faecal incontinence and constipation
Authors: Chan D S Y , Delicata R J
Published: February 2016

Background

Faecal incontinence and constipation affects up to 20 per cent of the general population, and can be a significant source of distress. The antegrade continence enema (ACE) procedure has been shown to be an effective alternative treatment option for children, but its use in adults requires clarification. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to determine outcomes of the ACE procedure in adults with faecal incontinence and constipation.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library (from January 1990 to January 2015) were searched for studies that reported outcomes of ACE in adults with faecal incontinence and constipation. The primary outcome measure was successful use of ACE in the management of symptoms, as determined by continued use at follow-up.

Results

Seventeen observational studies involving 426 patients (265 female patients; median age 42 (range 17–84) years) with faecal incontinence (165 patients), constipation (209) or both (52), who had undergone the ACE procedure, were analysed. At a median follow-up of 39 months, the pooled success rate was 74·3 (95 per cent c.i. 66·1 to 82·6) per cent (P < 0·001). For patients with faecal incontinence the pooled success rate was 83·6 (75·0 to 92·1) per cent, compared with 67·7 (55·1 to 80·3) per cent in patients with constipation (both P < 0·001).

Conclusion

The ACE procedure is an effective long-term treatment option in patients with faecal incontinence and constipation, and should be considered before performing a definitive colostomy. Patients with faecal incontinence appear to respond better than those with constipation.
Factors impacting on patient perception of procedural success and satisfaction following treatment for varicose veins
Authors: Onida S , Shalhoub J , Moore H M , Head K S , Lane T R A , Davies A H
Published: February 2016

Background

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have been collected from patients undergoing varicose vein treatments in the National Health Service since 2009. The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to examine PROMs for varicose vein interventions, characterizing factors that might predict patient-reported perception of procedural success and satisfaction.

Methods

Centrally compiled PROMs data for varicose vein procedures carried out from 2009 to 2011 were obtained from the Hospital Episode Statistics data warehouse for England. As data were not distributed normally, non-parametric statistical tests were employed.

Results

Data for 35 039 patient episodes (62·8 per cent women) were available for analysis. Some 23·4 per cent of patients reported a degree of anxiety or depression before treatment; a formal diagnosis of depression was present in 7·8 per cent. Quality of life, measured by generic EQ-5D-3L™ index and the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire (AVVQ) improved after intervention by 11·7 per cent (0·77 to 0·86) and 40·1 per cent (18·95 to 11·36) respectively. No significant improvement was found in EQ-5D™ visual analogue scale scores. There was a significant improvement in self-perceived anxiety or depression after the intervention (P < 0·001, McNemar–Bowker test). Both preoperative and postoperative depression or anxiety had a statistically significant relationship with self-reported success and satisfaction (both P < 0·001, χ2 test).

Conclusion

This analysis of PROMs is evidence that treatment of varicose veins improves quality of life, and anxiety or depression. Preoperative and postoperative anxiety or depression scores impact on patient-perceived success and satisfaction rates.
The anabolic action of intermittent parathyroid hormone on cortical bone depends partly on its ability to induce nitric oxide‐mediated vasorelaxation in BALB/c mice
Authors: Gohin S , Carriero A , Chenu C , Pitsillides AA , Arnett TR , Marenzana M
Published: February 2016

There is strong evidence that vasodilatory nitric oxide (NO) donors have anabolic effects on bone in humans. Parathyroid hormone (PTH), the only osteoanabolic drug currently approved, is also a vasodilator. We investigated whether the NO synthase inhibitor L‐NAME might alter the effect of PTH on bone by blocking its vasodilatory effect. BALB/c mice received 28 daily injections of PTH[1–34] (80 µg/kg/day) or L‐NAME (30 mg/kg/day), alone or in combination. Hindlimb blood perfusion was measured by laser Doppler imaging. Bone architecture, turnover and mechanical properties in the femur were analysed respectively by micro‐CT, histomorphometry and three‐point bending. PTH increased hindlimb blood flow by >30% within 10 min of injection (P < 0.001). Co‐treatment with L‐NAME blocked the action of PTH on blood flow, whereas L‐NAME alone had no effect. PTH treatment increased femoral cortical bone volume and formation rate by 20% and 110%, respectively (P < 0.001). PTH had no effect on trabecular bone volume in the femoral metaphysis although trabecular thickness and number were increased and decreased by 25%, respectively. Co‐treatment with L‐NAME restricted the PTH‐stimulated increase in cortical bone formation but had no clear‐cut effects in trabecular bone. Co‐treatment with L‐NAME did not affect the mechanical strength in femurs induced by iPTH. These results suggest that NO‐mediated vasorelaxation plays partly a role in the anabolic action of PTH on cortical bone. © 2016 The Authors. Cell Biochemistry and Function published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A protease‐activated receptor 2 agonist (AC‐264613) suppresses interferon regulatory factor 5 and decreases interleukin‐12p40 production by lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated macrophages: Role of p53
Authors: Yamaguchi Rui , Yamamoto Takatoshi , Sakamoto Arisa , Ishimaru Yasuji , Narahara Shinji , Sugiuchi Hiroyuki , Yamaguchi Yasuo
Published: February 2016

The transcription factor interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) has a key role in the production of interleukin (IL)‐12 by macrophages. IRF5 is also a central mediator of toll‐like receptor signaling and is a direct target of p53. Activation of protease‐activated receptor 2 (PAR‐2) upregulates p53 and suppresses apoptosis. This study investigated the influence of human neutrophil elastase (HNE) and PAR‐2 agonists on expression of IRF5 and IL‐12p40 by macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)‐dependent macrophages showed upregulation of IRF5 expression, while HNE reduced expression of p53 and IRF5 in a concentration‐dependent manner. HNE also caused a concentration‐dependent decrease of IRF5 in macrophages transfected with small interfering RNA to silence p53, while silencing of β‐arrestin 2 blunted the reduction of p53 or IRF5 by HNE. Incubation of macrophages with a PAR‐2 agonist, AC‐264613, caused a decrease of IRF5 expression and also significantly reduced p53 protein expression. HNE upregulated the expression of tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) and caused transactivation of TLR4, while AC‐264613 did not promote TLR4 transactivation. In conclusion, the PAR‐2 agonist AC‐264613 attenuated IRF5‐associated IL‐12p40 production by macrophages.
Recommendations for a step‐wise comparative approach to the evaluation of new screening tests for colorectal cancer
Authors: Young Graeme P. , Senore Carlo , Mandel Jack S. , Allison James E. , Atkin Wendy S. , Benamouzig Robert , Bossuyt Patrick M. M. , Silva Mahinda De , Guittet Lydia , Halloran Stephen P. , Haug Ulrike , Hoff Geir , Itzkowitz Steven H. , Leja Marcis , Levin Bernard , Meijer Gerrit A. , O'Morain Colm A. , Parry Susan , Rabeneck Linda , Rozen Paul , Saito Hiroshi , Schoen Robert E. , Seaman Helen E. , Steele Robert J. C. , Sung Joseph J. Y. , Winawer Sidney J.
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

New screening tests for colorectal cancer continue to emerge, but the evidence needed to justify their adoption in screening programs remains uncertain.

METHODS

A review of the literature and a consensus approach by experts was undertaken to provide practical guidance on how to compare new screening tests with proven screening tests.

RESULTS

Findings and recommendations from the review included the following: Adoption of a new screening test requires evidence of effectiveness relative to a proven comparator test. Clinical accuracy supported by programmatic population evaluation in the screening context on an intention‐to‐screen basis, including acceptability, is essential. Cancer‐specific mortality is not essential as an endpoint provided that the mortality benefit of the comparator has been demonstrated and that the biologic basis of detection is similar. Effectiveness of the guaiac‐based fecal occult blood test provides theminimumstandard to be achieved by a new test. A 4‐phase evaluation is recommended. An initial retrospective evaluation in cancer cases and controls (Phase 1) is followed by a prospective evaluation of performance across the continuum of neoplastic lesions (Phase 2). Phase 3 follows the demonstration of adequate accuracy in these 2 prescreening phases and addresses programmatic outcomes at 1 screening round on an intention‐to‐screen basis. Phase 4 involves more comprehensive evaluation of ongoing screening over multiple rounds. Key information is provided from the following parameters: the test positivity rate in a screening population, the true‐positive and false‐positive rates, and the number needed to colonoscope to detect a target lesion.

CONCLUSIONS

New screening tests can be evaluated efficiently by this stepwise comparative approach.Cancer2016;122:826–39. © 2016 The Authors.Cancerpublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf ofAmerican Cancer Society.
Management of localized and advanced prostate cancer in Canada: A lifetime cost and quality‐adjusted life‐year analysis
Authors: Sanyal Chiranjeev , Aprikian Armen G. , Cury Fabio L. , Chevalier Simone , Dragomir Alice
Published: February 2016

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, the literature to date lacks studies examining lifetime costs and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) of prostate cancer (PCa) management strategies that integrate localized and advanced disease. The objective of the current study was to assess lifetime costs and QALYs associated with contemporary PCa management strategies across risk groups by integrating localized and advanced disease.

METHODS

The authors' validated Markov chain Monte Carlo model was used to predict lifetime direct costs and QALYs. The health states modeled were active surveillance, initial treatments (radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy), PCa recurrence, PCa recurrence free, metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer, and death (cause specific/other causes). Data regarding treatment distribution, state transition probabilities, adverse effects of management options, costs, utilities, and disutilities were derived from the published literature.

RESULTS

The total cost per patient for the overall cohort increased from $18,503 at 5 years to $28,032 and $39,143, respectively, at 10 years and 15 years. Furthermore, the results indicated the influence of risk group on total cost, with the high‐risk group accruing the maximum per patient cost followed by the intermediate‐risk and low‐risk groups. Active surveillance was found to confer the most QALYs (12.5 years) and was the least costly strategy ($18,452) for individuals at low risk. For all risk groups, radical prostatectomy was less costly and conferred modestly more QALYs compared with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy modalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Public health care systems in Canada and elsewhere are operating under budget constraints to allocate finite resources. The findings of the current study might inform discussions concerning budget planning to provide health care services.Cancer2016;122:1085–1096.©2016 American Cancer Society
Synthesis of Bi–Fe–Sb–O Pyrochlore Nanoparticles with Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Egorysheva Anna V. , Gajtko Olga M. , Rudnev Pavel O. , Ellert Olga G. , Ivanov Vladimir K.
Published: February 2016

A method has been developed for the preparation of Bi–Fe–Sb–O pyrochlore nanoparticles by microwave hydrothermal treatment. Experiments revealed that the preparation procedure for the precursors is an important factor that affects the phase composition of the product. The morphology of the pyrochlore particles was investigated by SEM, HRTEM, and selected‐area electron diffraction (SAED) methods. The samples consist of numerous spherical agglomerates from 100 to 200 nm formed from 20 nm mutually oriented nanocrystallites. A mechanism for the formation of the particles is proposed, and the magnetic and photocatalytic properties of the Bi–Fe–Sb–O pyrochlore nanocrystallites are reported.
Bis(pyrazol‐1‐yl)(pyridin‐x‐yl)methane Ligands – Mono‐ or Ditopic Ligands in Complexes and Supramolecular Frameworks
Authors: Manzano Blanca R. , Jalón Félix A. , Carrión M. Carmen , Durá Gema
Published: February 2016

Bis(pyrazol‐1‐yl)(pyridin‐x‐yl)methane ligands give rise to a rich variety of complexes with a wide range of transition metals. The derivatives with x = 2 act as monotopic and tripodal ligands. In the cases of ligands with x = 3 or 4, tripodal coordination is no longer possible and they generally behave as ditopic ligands that bridge two metal centres in cyclic dimers and trinuclear or polymeric species. The metal geometry has a clear influence on the type of compound formed. Ligands with x = 3 generate chiral cyclic dimers. Ligands that contain two bis(pyrazolyl)methane groups behave as ditopic, but they also act in a monotopic fashion in some cases. Analysis of the influence of some factors as the counteranion or the substituents on the ligand rings has been carried out. A two‐step methodology starting from dimers and connectors was used to obtain egg‐crate polymers or hexanuclear cyclic helicates. A comparative analysis of some parameters of the ligands has been performed.
Enantioselective Modular Total Synthesis of Macrolides Sch725674 and C‐4‐epi‐Sch725674
Authors: Sharma Brijesh M. , Gontala Arjun , Kumar Pradeep
Published: February 2016

The convergent total synthesis of Sch725674 has been accomplished by starting from (R)‐1,2‐epoxyheptane and assembling five modules in a highly stereoselective manner to give the final product in 6.6 % overall yield. The same strategy was extended to the synthesis of its C‐4 epimer. Key reactions of the synthetic pathway include a Jacobsen hydrolytic kinetic resolution of an epoxide followed by its regioselective opening through a Yamaguchi–Hirao alkynylation, and ring‐closing metathesis reaction to furnish the unique 14‐membered ring macrolactone. In addition, the influence of protecting groups on the efficiency of the ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) macrocyclization has been studied to maximize its yields.
Reactions to the UK's cut to CCS funding: Does CCS have a future in the UK?
Authors: Cozier Muriel
Published: February 2016

The UK has for some time been considered one of Europe's leading advocates for carbon capture and storage (CCS). But a sudden and somewhat unexpected announcement by the UK government that £1 billion of funding for a CCS competition was no longer available has left many people around the world wondering if CCS in the UK or indeed in Europe, has a future. Muriel Cozier rounds up reactions to the announcement. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Synthesis, Characterization, and Conformational Study of Acylhydrazones of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes
Authors: Hamzi Imane , Barhoumi‐Slimi Thouraya M. , Abidi Rym
Published: February 2016

New acylhydrazone derivatives 1–6 have been synthesized by condensation of tert‐butylphenoxyhydrazide and cinnamaldehyde A or β‐chloro‐α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes B–F. They were characterized by IR, (1H, 13C, 19F) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and high‐resolution mass spectroscopy. The NMR data show the existence of the cis/trans‐amide conformers due to N–C(O) bond rotation in addition to the E/Z isomers around the C=C bond of some of the starting aldehydes. The solvent polarity effects on the ratios of the cis/trans‐amide rotamers have also been investigated. Importantly, rotational barriers around the N–C(O) bond for all compounds 1–6 (62.9–68.8 kJ mol–1) were calculated using the coalescence‐temperature method according to the Eyring equation. The results are discussed and compared with those previously reported for related acylhydrazones of aryl adehydes and acetone.
Intraoperative goal‐directed hemodynamic management in free tissue transfer for head and neck cancer
Authors: Hand William R. , Stoll William D. , McEvoy Matthew D. , McSwain Julie R. , Sealy Clark D. , Skoner Judith M. , Hornig Joshua D. , Tennant Paul A. , Wolf Bethany , Day Terry A.
Published: February 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of algorithmic physiologic management on patients undergoing head and neck free tissue transfer and reconstruction.

Methods

Ninety‐four adult patients were randomized to treatment and control groups. The blood pressure of the control group was managed consistent with contemporary standards. The treatment group was managed using an algorithm based on blood pressure and calculated physiologic values derived from arterial waveform analysis. Primary outcome was intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay.

Results

ICU length of stay was decreased in the treatment group (33.7 vs 58.3 hours; p = .026). The complication rate was not increased in the treatment group.

Conclusion

The goal‐directed hemodynamic management algorithm decreased the ICU length of stay. Judicious use of vasoactive drugs and goal‐directed fluid administration has a role in improving perioperative outcomes for patients undergoing head and neck free tissue transfer. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1974–E1980, 2016
Adherence to guideline‐recommended process measures for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck in Ontario: Impact of surgeon and hospital volume
Authors: Eskander Antoine , Monteiro Eric , Irish Jonathan , Gullane Patrick , Gilbert Ralph , de Almeida John , Brown Dale , Freeman Jeremy , Urbach David R. , Goldstein David P.
Published: February 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to measure adherence rates to guideline‐recommended process measures in patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

A total of 5720 patients who underwent surgery for head and neck cancer in Ontario between 1993 and 2010 were identified from administrative databases. Adherence to 4 guideline‐recommended processes of care was measured and stratified by hospital and physician case volume.

Results

Seventy‐two percent of patients received preoperative head and neck imaging, 83% received preoperative chest imaging, 58% received preoperative multidisciplinary consultation, and 77% had appropriate follow‐up visits. Higher surgeon and hospital surgical volumes were associated with higher adherence rates.

Conclusion

Adherence rates to guideline‐recommended processes of care in the surgical management of patients with head and neck cancer in Ontario were moderate and should be improved. Although adherence rates seem proportional to surgical volume, even the highest volume centers have room to improve. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1987–E1992, 2016
Human olfactory stem cells for injured facial nerve reconstruction in a rat model
Authors: Batioglu–Karaaltin Aysegul , Karaaltin Mehmet Veli , Oztel Olga Nehir , Ovali Ercument , Sener Belit Merve , Adatepe Turgut , Yigit Ozgur , Bozkurt Erol , Baydar Serap Yesilkir , Bagirova Melahat , Uzun Nurten , Allahverdiyev Adil
Published: February 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to show the efficacy of olfactory stem cells for injured facial nerve reconstruction in a rat model.

Methods

Olfactory stem cells were isolated from the olfactory mucosa of human participants. A 2‐mm excision was performed on the right facial nerve of all rats. Reconstruction was performed with a conduit in group 1 (n = 9); a conduit and phosphate‐buffered saline in group 2 (n = 9); and a conduit and labeled olfactory stem cell in group 3 (n = 9). Rats were followed for whisker movements and electroneuronography (ENoG) analyses.

Results

The whisker‐movement scores for group 3 were significantly different from other groups (p < .001). ENoG showed that the amplitude values for group 3 were significantly different from group 1 and group 2 (p = .030; p < .001). Group 3 showed marked olfactory stem cell under a fluorescence microscope.

Conclusion

This study suggests that olfactory stem cells may be used as a potent cellular therapy for accelerating the regeneration of peripheral nerve injuries. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2011–E2020, 2016
Corporate Default Prediction Model Averaging: A Normative Linear Pooling Approach
Authors: Figini Silvia , Savona Roberto , Vezzoli Marika
Published: February 2016

Focusing on credit risk modelling, this paper introduces a novel approach for ensemble modelling based on a normative linear pooling. Models are first classified as dominant and competitive, and the pooling is run using the competitive models only. Numerical experiments based on parametric (logit, Bayesian model averaging) and nonparametric (classification tree, random forest, bagging, boosting) model comparison shows that the proposed ensemble performs better than alternative approaches, in particular when different modelling cultures are mixed together (logit and classification tree). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Teaching children with autism to tell socially appropriate lies
Authors: Bergstrom Ryan , Najdowski Adel C. , Alvarado Marisela , Tarbox Jonathan
Published: February 2016

This study used a nonconcurrent multiple baseline across participants design to evaluate the use of rules, role‐play, and feedback for teaching 3 children with autism spectrum disorder to tell socially appropriate lies when (a) presented with an undesired gift and (b) someone's appearance changed in an undesired way. The intervention was effective in teaching use of socially appropriate lies, and generalization to untrained people and gifts or appearances was observed.
Assessment and treatment of problem behavior maintained by mand compliance
Authors: Eluri Zina , Andrade Ivette , Trevino Noemi , Mahmoud Enad
Published: February 2016

We modified functional analysis procedures to include a condition in which we reinforced problem behavior by complying with a child's mands. After identifying compliance with mands as a reinforcer, we evaluated the efficacy of a token system with a response‐cost contingency and incorporated discriminative stimuli to signal when mands would be reinforced. The token system with response cost effectively reduced problem behavior. Similar procedures may be beneficial when continuous adult compliance is not possible, when adults want to control when they will comply with the child's mands, or to build a child's tolerance for adult‐directed situations.
Calcium polyphosphate particulates for bone void filler applications
Authors: Pilliar Robert M. , Kandel Rita A. , Grynpas Marc D. , Theodoropoulos John , Hu Youxin , Allo Bedilu , Changoor Adele
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the characteristics of porous calcium polyphosphate particulates (CPPp) formed using two different processing treatments as bone void fillers in non‐ or minimally load‐bearing sites. The two calcium polyphosphate particulate variants (grades) were formed using different annealing conditions during particulate preparation to yield either more slowly degrading calcium polyphosphate particulates (SD‐CPPp) or faster degrading particulates (FD‐CPPp) as suggested by a previous degradation study conducted in vitro (Hu et al., Submitted for publication 2016). The two CPPp grades were compared as bone void fillers in vivo by implanting particulates in defects created in rabbit femoral condyle sites (critical size defects). The SD‐CPPp and FD‐CPPp were implanted for 4‐ and 16‐week periods. The in vivo study indicated a significant difference in amount of new bone formed in the prepared sites with SD‐CPPp resulting in more new bone formation compared with FD‐CPPp. The lower bone formation characteristic of the FD‐CPPp was attributed to its faster degradation rate and resulting higher local concentration of released polyphosphate degradation products. The study results indicate the importance of processing conditions on preparing calcium polyphosphate particulates for potential use as bone void fillers in nonload‐bearing sites. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 874–884, 2017.
Nifedipine GITS/Candesartan Combination Therapy Lowers Blood Pressure Across Different Baseline Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure Categories: DISTINCT Study Subanalyses
Authors: Kjeldsen Sverre E. , Cha Gloria , Villa Giuseppe , Mancia Giuseppe ,   for the DISTINCT Investigators
Published: February 2016

DISTINCT was an 8‐week, double‐blind, randomized study to investigate the antihypertensive efficacy and safety of various nifedipine gastrointestinal treatment system (GITS)/candesartan cilexetil (N/C) dose combinations, vs respective monotherapies or placebo, in patients with diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥95 to <110 mm Hg. The current prespecified analysis compared BP reduction in participants with mild vs moderate baseline hypertension (ie, systolic [S]BP <160 mm Hg vs ≥160 mm Hg and DBP <100 mm Hg vs ≥100 mm Hg). A total of 1362 patients were analyzed by descriptive statistics. In all patient subgroups investigated, the NC combinations (ie, N: 20, 30, or 60 mg; C: 4, 8, 16, or 32 mg daily) provided greater SBP and DBP lowering and higher rates of BP control (defined as BP <140/90 mm Hg) than respective monotherapies or placebo, with greatest absolute BP reductions observed in the moderately elevated SBP or DBP subgroups. A trend to dose‐response relationship was observed in each subgroup. In each SBP and DBP subgroup, treatment‐related vasodilatory events (flushing, headache, or edema) were less frequent for patients receiving NC combination therapy than N monotherapy. These analyses support the use of calcium antagonist and angiotensin receptor blocker combination therapy in patients with both mild and moderate hypertension, for whom effective BP normalization and good drug tolerance would greatly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Initial management and outcomes after superficial thrombophlebitis: The Cardiovascular Research Network Venous Thromboembolism study
Authors: Samuelson Bethany , Go Alan S. , Sung Sue Hee , Fan Dongjie , Fang Margaret C.
Published: February 2016

Although superficial thrombophlebitis (SVTE) is generally considered a benign, self‐limited disease, accumulating evidence suggests that it often leads to more serious forms of venous thromboembolism. We reviewed the medical charts of 329 subjects with SVTE from the Cardiovascular Research Network Venous Thromboembolism cohort study to collect information on the acute treatment of SVTE and subsequent diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis within 1 year. All participants received care within Kaiser Permanente Northern California, a large, integrated healthcare delivery system. Fourteen (4.3%) subjects with SVTE received anticoagulants, 148 (45.0%) were recommended antiplatelet agents or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, and in 167 (50.8%) there was no documented antithrombotic therapy. In the year after SVTE diagnosis, 19 (5.8%) patients had a subsequent diagnosis of a deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. In conclusion, clinically significant venous thrombosis within a year after SVTE was uncommon in our study despite infrequent use of antithrombotic therapy. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:432–434. © 2016 Society of Hospital Medicine
Evidence for late Middle Pleistocene glaciation of the British margin of the southern North Sea
Authors: White Tom S. , Bridgland David R. , Westaway Rob , Straw Allan
Published: February 2016

The timing and extent of late Middle Pleistocene glaciations in England and the southern North Sea are controversial topics. The recent Trent Valley Palaeolithic Project uncovered evidence for a post‐Anglian, pre‐Devensian glaciation that affected much of central and eastern England; the Wragby Till of Lincolnshire is associated with this glacial event, attributed here to Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage (MIS) 8. Coeval glacigenic deposits in the Middle Trent suggest that both western and eastern lobes of MIS 8 ice reached the Derby area. These various deposits have been assigned previously to MIS 12, 10 or 6, although the last can be excluded for the Wragby Till, which is overlain by Trent terrace deposits assigned to MIS 7 (from biostratigraphy and amino acid dating). The disposition of these glacigenic deposits within the landscape, particularly in relation to terrace deposits of the ancestral River Trent, and the absence of MIS 11 and 9 deposits within the footprint of the glaciation also provide compelling evidence. At its maximum extent in eastern England the MIS 8 ice reached the Peterborough area; identifying its extension (or otherwise) into areas such as north‐west Norfolk and the West Midlands requires further work.
Analysis of protamine peptides in insulin pharmaceutical formulations by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Lamalle Caroline , Servais Anne‐Catherine , Demelenne Alice , Crommen Jacques , Fillet Marianne
Published: February 2016

Protamines are a group of highly basic peptides that are sometimes added to insulin formulations to prolong the pharmacological action. In this study, different methods were investigated to identify protamine in insulin formulations. Capillary electrophoresis in aqueous and non‐aqueous media was tested to separate these peptides with very close amino acid sequences. Different buffers (phosphate or formate, both acidified) and various additives (principally negatively charged and neutral surfactants) were investigated to optimize peptide separation. Finally, a micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography method using a capillary of 120 cm effective length and an aqueous background electrolyte made up of 100 mM phosphate buffer (pH 2) and 50 mM Thesit® gave the best results, providing the separation of the four major protamine peptides within 25 min.
Separation and determination of flavonoids in three traditional chinese medicines by capillary electrophoresis with amperometric detection
Authors: Wang Wei , Lin Ping , Ma Lihong , Xu Kaixuan , Lin Xiuli
Published: February 2016

Flavonoids are important active ingredients in many traditional Chinese medicines. In this paper, capillary electrophoresis with amperometric detection was employed to separate and detect eight flavonoids, rutin, quercetrin, quercetin, kaempferol, kaempferide, catechin, apigenin, and luteolin, in a home‐made capillary electrophoresis device. Under the separation voltage of 2000 V, the eight flavonoids could be completely separated within 33 min in 18 mM borax running buffer at pH 10.2. Good linear relationships were obtained for all analytes and the detection limits for flavonoids ranged from 0.46 to 0.85 μM. Then, the method was applied to separate and determine the flavonoids in three traditional Chinese medicines, hippophae rhamnoides, hypericum perforatum, and cacumen platycladi. Finally, rutin, kaempferol, quercetin, and quercetrin were discovered in these medicines and the concentrations ranged from 0.28 to 9.94 mg/g. The recoveries of flavonoids ranged from 84.7 to 113%, which showed the high reliability of this method.