bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimized 31P MRS in the human brain at 7 T with a dedicated RF coil setup
Authors: van de Bank Bart L. , Orzada Stephan , Smits Frits , Lagemaat Miriam W. , Rodgers Christopher T. , Bitz Andreas K. , Scheenen Tom W. J.
Published: October 2015

The design and construction of a dedicated RF coil setup for human brain imaging (1H) and spectroscopy (31P) at ultra‐high magnetic field strength (7 T) is presented. The setup is optimized for signal handling at the resonance frequencies for 1H (297.2 MHz) and 31P (120.3 MHz). It consists of an eight‐channel 1H transmit–receive head coil with multi‐transmit capabilities, and an insertable, actively detunable 31P birdcage (transmit–receive and transmit only), which can be combined with a seven‐channel receive‐only 31P array. The setup enables anatomical imaging and 31P studies without removal of the coil or the patient. By separating transmit and receive channels and by optimized addition of array signals with whitened singular value decomposition we can obtain a sevenfold increase in SNR of 31P signals in the occipital lobe of the human brain compared with the birdcage alone. These signals can be further enhanced by 30 ± 9% using the nuclear Overhauser effect by B1‐shimmed low‐power irradiation of water protons. Together, these features enable acquisition of 31P MRSI at high spatial resolutions (3.0 cm3 voxel) in the occipital lobe of the human brain in clinically acceptable scan times (~15 min). © 2015 The Authors. NMR in Biomedicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Recent developments in plant oil based functional materials
Authors: Mosiewicki Mirna A , Aranguren Mirta I
Published: October 2015

The increasing interest of academic and industrial sectors in the use of bio‐based materials mirrors the overwhelming need for replacing, as much as possible, petroleum derived chemicals, reducing the negative environmental impact derived from their usage. Vegetable oils fulfill this goal extremely well, because of their worldwide availability, large volume production at comparatively low prices and versatility of the modifications and reactions in which they can participate to produce a large variety of different monomers and polymer precursors. Further reactions of these chemicals can lead to very different types of final materials with varied applications. It is because of this remarkable versatility that many review articles have appeared during the last few years; many of them have dealt with the various routes for vegetable oil modification and options for polymer synthesis, whilst others were dedicated to the analysis of the properties of the derived materials, generally focusing on structural properties. In this review, we focus on the capabilities of vegetable oils to be modified and/or reacted to obtain materials with functional properties suitable for use in coatings, conductive or insulating materials, biomedical, shape memory, self‐healing and thermoreversible materials as well as other special functional applications. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
A proteomic glimpse into human ureter proteome
Authors: Magdeldin Sameh , Hirao Yoshitoshi , Elguoshy Amr , Xu Bo , Zhang Ying , Fujinaka Hidehiko , Yamamoto Keiko , Yates John R. , Yamamoto Tadashi
Published: October 2015

Urine has evolved as one of the most important biofluids in clinical proteomics due to its noninvasive sampling and its stability. Yet, it is used in clinical diagnostics of several disorders by detecting changes in its components including urinary protein/polypeptide profile. Despite the fact that majority of proteins detected in urine are primarily originated from the urogenital (UG) tract, determining its precise source within the UG tract remains elusive. In this article, we performed a comprehensive analysis of ureter proteome to assemble the first unbiased ureter dataset. Next, we compared these data to urine, urinary exosome, and kidney mass spectrometric datasets. Our result concluded that among 2217 nonredundant ureter proteins, 751 protein candidates (33.8%) were detected in urine as urinary protein/polypeptide or exosomal protein. On the other hand, comparing ureter protein hits (48) that are not shown in corresponding databases to urinary bladder and prostate human protein atlas databases pinpointed 21 proteins that might be unique to ureter tissue. In conclusion, this finding offers future perspectives for possible identification of ureter disease‐associated biomarkers such as ureter carcinoma. In addition, the ureter proteomic dataset published in this article will provide a valuable resource for researchers working in the field of urology and urine biomarker discovery. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD002620 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD002620).
Proteogenomics of rare taxonomic phyla: A prospective treasure trove of protein coding genes
Authors: Kumar Dhirendra , Mondal Anupam Kumar , Kutum Rintu , Dash Debasis
Published: October 2015

Sustainable innovations in sequencing technologies have resulted in a torrent of microbial genome sequencing projects. However, the prokaryotic genomes sequenced so far are unequally distributed along their phylogenetic tree; few phyla contain the majority, the rest only a few representatives. Accurate genome annotation lags far behind genome sequencing. While automated computational prediction, aided by comparative genomics, remains a popular choice for genome annotation, substantial fraction of these annotations are erroneous. Proteogenomics utilizes protein level experimental observations to annotate protein coding genes on a genome wide scale. Benefits of proteogenomics include discovery and correction of gene annotations regardless of their phylogenetic conservation. This not only allows detection of common, conserved proteins but also the discovery of protein products of rare genes that may be horizontally transferred or taxonomy specific. Chances of encountering such genes are more in rare phyla that comprise a small number of complete genome sequences. We collated all bacterial and archaeal proteogenomic studies carried out to date and reviewed them in the context of genome sequencing projects. Here, we present a comprehensive list of microbial proteogenomic studies, their taxonomic distribution, and also urge for targeted proteogenomics of underexplored taxa to build an extensive reference of protein coding genes.
Synthesis of poly(isopropenylphenoxy propylene carbonate) and its facile side‐chain functionalization into hydroxy‐polyurethanes
Authors: Huang Chun Chieh , Lin Ching Hsuan , Dai Shenghong A.
Published: October 2015

4‐Isopropenyl phenol (4‐IPP) is a versatile dual functional intermediate that can be prepared readily from bisphenol‐A (BPA). Through etherification with epichlorohydrin to the phenolic group of 4‐IPP, it can be converted into 4‐isopropenyl phenyl glycidyl ether (IPGE). On further reaction with carbon dioxide in the presence of tetra‐n‐butyl ammonium bromide (TBAB) as the catalyst, IPGE was transformed into 4‐isopropenylphenoxy propylene carbonate (IPPC) in 90% yield. Cationic polymerization of IPPC with strong acid such as trifluoromethanesulfonic acid or boron trifluoride diethyl etherate as the catalyst at −40 °C gave a linear poly(isopropenylphenoxy propylene carbonate), poly(IPPC), with multicyclic carbonate groups substituted uniformly at the side‐chains of the polymer. The cyclic carbonate groups of poly(IPPC) were further reacted with different aliphatic amines and diamines resulting in formation of polymers with hydroxy‐polyurethane on side‐chains. Syntheses, characterizations of poly(IPPC) and its conversion into hydroxy‐polyurethane crosslinked polymers were presented. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 802–808
Human factors considerations: Midstream process safety integration
Authors: Brooks Denise M.
Published: October 2015

Midstream oil and gas companies are coming into their own. For example, according to Deloitte (2014), “Midstream energy companies’ share of overall market value in the oil and gas industry has already risen, nearly tripling over the last six years.” Midstream operators are becoming the stars of the energy industry, investing $26 billion on new pipelines and facilities in 2012—a drastic increase from the seven billion spent just 6 years earlier [Larsson, Midstream investment in pipeline management solutions, Oil and Gas Monitor, Schneider Electric, 2014].

Particularly in the United States due to the success of shale and the increasing possibilities for exportation along with recent accidents and fatalities, more scrutiny is being given to both process safety and the humans in the myriad of midstream systems. In the petroleum industry, midstream activities are often taken for granted. Midstream, the conduit between upstream (retrieval of crude oil) and downstream (the processing of petroleum products), is deceivingly complex and risk‐laden. The process safety issues are many and often the integration of those issues with the elements of crude oil storage and transportation is elusive.

“Even the best designed, engineered, maintained, and operated pipelines and modes of transportation can be vulnerable to human failures and organizational complexity” [Smith and Volf, Oil Gas Financ J (2013)]. Human Factors (HFs) is a scientific tool that integrates humans (and their capabilities and limitations) into highly complex processes and systems. This discussion describes how the integration of HFs with process safety in crude oil storage, pipeline management, and transportation preserves human safety, organizational credibility, public goodwill, and infrastructure confidence along with investment maximization and preservation.

Each aspect and phase of midstream activities share commonalities with the others and yet each has its own unique aspects and challenges. This article describes HFs integration with process safety in the midstream environment. Issues and considerations common to most facets of midstream enterprises are addressed. In addition, unique components of each of the midstream factors such as pipelines, transportation—rail, ship, and truck—and logistics and technology are discussed from a HFs perspective. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 34: 320–327, 2015
Discharge of CO2 from large‐diameter orifices: Experimental data and data review
Authors: Witlox Henk W. M. , Brown Jock , Holt Hamish , Armstong Keith , Allason Daniel
Published: October 2015

The CO2PIPETRANS Joint Industry Project included a large‐diameter CO2 release experimental program involving eight dense phase CO2 experiments at the DNV GL Spadeadam test site. The releases were through 1″, 2″, 4″, and 6″ orifice diameters. Measurements included pressure and temperature at several locations in the supply reservoir, feed lines, and discharge pipe, while direct flow rate measurements were carried out for the 1″ releases only. Flow rates for the larger releases were estimated by calculation. This article describes the experiments and presents the results of a high‐level data review of these experiments. As part of the data review, a method was derived to estimate the time‐varying flow rate analytically from derived pressure and temperature measurements in the reservoir. Pressure, temperature, and derived flow rate measurements were analyzed for the subsequent stages of flow in the experiments. The data review concluded that while the data will be very valuable for model validation, the quality of the data measurements for the large‐scale diameter experiments is not as high as the previous smaller‐scale diameter BP and Shell tests due to difficulties making such accurate measurements at the large scale required. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 34: 389–397, 2015
Weakening of the spin density wave gap at low temperatures in single crystals
Authors: Dutta Anirban , Kumar Neeraj , Thamizhavel A. , Gupta Anjan K.
Published: October 2015

We report on temperature dependent scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy studies of undoped SrFeAs single crystals from 6 to 292 K. Resistivity data show spin density wave (SDW) transition at 205 K and the superconducting transition at 21 K while magnetic susceptibility does not show any superconductivity. Tunnel spectra correlate well with the SDW transition with a depression in the density of states near the Fermi energy below . On further lowering the temperature, the width of this partial energy gap associated with the SDW decreases. Using the anti‐correlation of superconducting phase with SDW, we interpret this gap weakening as a precursor to superconductivity. This may give rise to a facile nucleation of superconductivity near defects.
Measurement of Truck Transport Vibration Levels in China as a Function of Road Conditions, Truck Speed and Load Level
Authors: Zhou Ran , Yan Liping , Li Baiguo , Xie Jing
Published: October 2015

Transport vibration levels in trucks were measured as a function of truck speed, road conditions and load level. The trucks consisted of one normally loaded truck and one overloaded truck with leaf‐spring suspensions. Truck speeds were divided into three groups: 0–30 km/h, 31–60 km/h and 61–90 km/h. Traffic roads consisted of highways, arterial roads (ARs), secondary roads (SRs) and tertiary roads (TRs). The results revealed that transport vibration levels increased with truck speed; TRs contributed to the highest transport vibration levels, followed by SRs, ARs and highways. The power spectral density peaks were at 3 or 3.5 Hz. Overloading probably suppressed transport vibration levels especially at low speeds. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanistic study on lowering the sensitivity of positive atmospheric pressure photoionization mass spectrometric analyses: size‐dependent reactivity of solvent clusters
Authors: Ahmed Arif , Choi Cheol Ho , Kim Sunghwan
Published: October 2015

Rationale

Understanding the mechanism of atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) is important for studies employing APPI liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). In this study, the APPI mechanism for polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) compounds dissolved in toluene and methanol or water mixture was investigated by use of MS analysis and quantum mechanical simulation. In particular, four different mechanisms that could contribute to the signal reduction were considered based on a combination of MS data and quantum mechanical calculations.

Methods

The APPI mechanism is clarified by combining MS data and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. To obtain MS data, a positive‐mode (+) APPI Q Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer was used to analyze each solution. DFT calculations were performed using the general atomic and molecular electronic structure system (GAMESS).

Results

The experimental results indicated that methanol significantly reduced the signal in (+) APPI, but no significative signal reduction was observed when water was used as a co‐solvent with toluene. The signal reduction is more significant especially for molecular ions than for protonated ions. Therefore, important information about the mechanism of methanol‐induced signal reduction in (+) APPI‐MS can be gained due its negative impact on APPI efficiency.

Conclusions

The size‐dependent reactivity of methanol clusters ((CH3OH)n, n = 1–8) is an important factor in determining the sensitivity of (+) APPI‐MS analyses. Clusters can compete with toluene radical ions for electrons. The reactivity increases as the sizes of the methanol clusters increase and this effect can be caused by the size‐dependent ionization energy of the solvent clusters. The resulting increase in cluster reactivity explains the flow rate and temperature‐dependent signal reduction observed in the analytes. Based on the results presented here, minimizing the sizes of methanol clusters can improve the sensitivity of LC/(+)‐APPI‐MS. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robot‐assisted laparoscopic (RAL) procedures in general surgery
Authors: Alimoglu Orhan , Sagiroglu Julide , Atak Ibrahim , Kilic Ali , Eren Tunc , Caliskan Mujgan , Bas Gurhan
Published: October 2015

Background

Robotics was introduced in clinical practice more than two decades ago, and it has gained remarkable popularity for a wide variety of laparoscopic procedures. We report our results of robot‐assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) in the most commonly applied general surgical procedures.

Method

Ninety seven patients underwent RALS from 2009 to 2012. Indications for RALS were cholelithiasis, gastric carcinoma, splenic tumors, colorectal carcinoma, benign colorectal diseases, non‐toxic nodular goiter and incisional hernia. Records of patients were analyzed for demographic features, intraoperative and postoperative complications and conversion to open surgery.

Results

Forty six female and 51 male patients were operated and mean age was 58,4 (range: 25‐88). Ninety three out of 97 procedures (96%) were completed robotically, 4 were converted to open surgery and there were 15 postoperative complications. There was no mortality.

Conclusion

Wide variety of procedures of general surgery can be managed safely and effectively by RALS. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Layer‐by‐layer assembly of {chitosan/Pd}n multilayer film based on in‐situ photochemical reduction with excellent electrocatalytic properties
Authors: Dai Juan , Zhang Chunyan , Yang Hai , Li Shikuo , Chen Ping , Shen Yuhua , Xie Anjian
Published: October 2015

Chitosan/palladium {CTS/Pd}n composite multilayer film was assembled based on layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly technique and in‐situ photo‐chemical reduction reaction, in which the CTS plays the role of a photo‐reduction agent and an assembly reagent. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows that spherical Pd nanoparticles with diameter of 20 nm are well‐dispersed in the composite multilayer films, and the size of Pd nanoparticles increased gradually with the extension of illumination time. Besides, the {CTS/Pd}n composite multilayer film exhibits linear, uniform and regular layer‐by‐layer growth. Furthermore, the {CTS/Pd}n composite multilayer film presents an excellent catalytic properties for oxygen reduction, and it has potential application in energy, chemical synthesis and biological processes. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hexaphosphanylamine Ligands: 1,1,4,7,10,10‐Hexakis(diphenylphosphanyl)‐triethylenetetramine Complexes of Chromium, Molybdenum, and Tungsten
Authors: Majoumo‐Mbe Felicite , Mendoza Lisbeth , Lönnecke Peter , Gómez‐Ruiz Santiago , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: October 2015

The oligophosphanylamine ligand 1,1,4,7,10,10‐hexakis(diphenylphosphanyl)triethylenetetramine (1) was obtained from the reaction of triethylenetetramine with six equivalents of chlorodiphenylphosphine in good yield. Ligand 1 was treated with three equivalents of [Cr(CO)4(MeCN)2], [Mo(CO)4(nbd)] (nbd = norbornadiene), or [W(CO)4(MeCN)2] in toluene to give the trinuclear tetracarbonyl ­complexes [{M(CO)4}3{(PPh2)2N(CH2)2NPPh2(CH2)2NPPh2(CH2)2N(PPh2)2}‐κ6P1,P2,P3,P4,P5,P6] [M = Cr (2), Mo (3), W (4)]. Compounds 1–4 were fully characterized by NMR (1H, 13C, 31P) and IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis and crystal structure determination (1–3). The molecular structures of 2 and 3 show the formation of tris‐chelate complexes with two M–P–N–P four‐membered rings and one M–P–N–CH2–CH2–N–P seven‐membered ring.
Stability results of some distributed systems involving Mindlin‐Timoshenko plates in the plane
Authors: Bassam Maya , Mercier Denis , Nicaise Serge , Wehbe Ali
Published: October 2015

In , Belkacem and Kasimov studied the stability of an one‐dimensional Timoshenko system in with one distributed temperature or Cattaneo dissipation damping. They proved that the heat dissipation alone is sufficient to stabilize the system. But there is a difference between the Timoshenko system in and its analogous system in . For this reason, the stability results are no longer the same and of intrinsic difference. In this paper, we consider the stability of some distributed systems involving Mindlin‐Timoshenko plate in the plane. If the plate is subject to two internal distributed damping then, using a direct approach based on the Fourier transform, we establish a polynomial energy decay rate for initial data in . In the case of indirect internal stability, when only one among the two equations is effectively damped while the second is indirectly damped through the coupling, we have two different situations. To be more precise, if the equation of the displacement in the vertical direction of the plate is only damped then, the system is unstable. Next, when the control is acting on the equation of the angles of rotation of a filament of the plate, no decay can be proved but our conjecture is a polynomial stability. Finally, unlike the one‐dimensional case, we show that, under a heat conduction (by Fourier or Cattaneo law), the plate is unstable.
Application of enzymatic apple pomace hydrolysate to production of 2,3-butanediol by alkaliphilic Bacillus licheniformis NCIMB 8059
Authors: Białkowska Aneta M , Gromek Ewa , Krysiak Joanna , Sikora Barbara , Kalinowska Halina , Jędrzejczak-Krzepkowska Marzena , Kubik Celina , Lang Siegmund , Schütt Fokko , Turkiewicz Marianna
Published: October 2015

2,3-Butanediol (2,3-BD) synthesis by a nonpathogenic bacterium Bacillus licheniformis NCIMB 8059 from enzymatic hydrolysate of depectinized apple pomace and its blend with glucose was studied. In shake flasks, the maximum diol concentration in fed-batch fermentations was 113 g/L (in 163 h, from the hydrolysate, feedings with glucose) while in batch processes it was around 27 g/L (in 32 h, from the hydrolysate and glucose blend). Fed-batch fermentations in the 0.75 and 30 L fermenters yielded 87.71 g/L 2,3-BD in 160 h, and 72.39 g/L 2,3-BD in 94 h, respectively (from the hydrolysate and glucose blend, feedings with glucose). The hydrolysate of apple pomace, which was for the first time used for microbial 2,3-BD production is not only a source of sugars but also essential minerals.
Gender differences in right ventricular function in patients with non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Martínez-Sellés M. , Pérez-David E. , Yotti R. , Jiménez-Borreguero J. , Loughlin G. , Gallego L. , Ayesta A. , Olivera M.J. , Bermejo J. , Fernández-Avilés F.
Published: October 2015

Aim

To evaluate sex-related differences in right ventricular (RV) function, assessed with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, in patients with stable non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy.

Methods

Prospective multicentre study. We included 71 patients (38 men) and 14 healthy volunteers.

Results

Mean age was 60.9 ± 12.2 years. Men presented higher levels of haemoglobin and white blood cell counts than women, and performed better in cardiopulmonary stress testing. A total of 24 patients (12 women) presented severe left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, 32 (13 female) moderate and 15 (8 women) mild LV systolic dysfunction. In the group with severe LV systolic dysfunction, average right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) was normal in women (52 ± 4 %), whereas it was reduced in men (39 ± 3 %) p = 0.035. Only one woman (8 %) had severe RV systolic dysfunction (RVEF < 35 %) compared with 6 men (50 %) p < 0.001. In patients with moderate and mild LV dysfunction , the mean RVEF was normal in both men and women. In the 14 healthy volunteers, the lowest value of RVEF was 48 % and mean RVEF was normal in women (56 ± 2 %) and in men (51 ±  1 %), p = 0.08.

Conclusions

In patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, RV systolic dysfunction is found mainly in male patients with severe LV systolic dysfunction.
Asymptotic spectral gap and Weyl law for Ruelle resonances of open partially expanding maps
Authors: ARNOLDI JEAN FRANCOIS , FAURE FRÉDÉRIC , WEICH TOBIAS
Published: October 2015

We consider a simple model of an open partially expanding map. Its trapped set ${\mathcal{K}}$ in phase space is a fractal set. We first show that there is a well-defined discrete spectrum of Ruelle resonances which describes the asymptotic of correlation functions for large time and which is parametrized by the Fourier component $\unicode[STIX]{x1D708}$ in the neutral direction of the dynamics. We introduce a specific hypothesis on the dynamics that we call ‘minimal captivity’. This hypothesis is stable under perturbations and means that the dynamics is univalued in a neighborhood of ${\mathcal{K}}$. Under this hypothesis we show the existence of an asymptotic spectral gap and a fractal Weyl law for the upper bound of density of Ruelle resonances in the semiclassical limit $\unicode[STIX]{x1D708}\rightarrow \infty$. Some numerical computations with the truncated Gauss map and Bowen–Series maps illustrate these results.
Editorial
Authors: Nakata Martin , Mackinlay Elizabeth
Published: October 2015

This special issue of The Australian Journal of Indigenous Education presents a second volume of papers which specifically address the issue of remote education for Indigenous Australians. ‘Red Dirt Revisited’, edited by John Guenther, presents findings from his team working on the Remote Education Systems (RES) project within the Cooperative Research Centre for Remote Economic Participation (CRC-REP). Focusing on a number of remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educational sites in the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia, the RES project is now in its final stages and the main intention behind this special issue is to share significant findings from this important research. Much of the work presented here is by postgraduate students and AJIE is very pleased to be able to provide a voice and forum to support and ‘grow’ early career researchers in our field.
Scientific evidence for health effects attributed to the consumption of probiotics and prebiotics: an update for current perspectives and future challenges
Authors: Martinez Rafael Chacon Ruiz , Bedani Raquel , Saad Susana Marta Isay
Published: October 2015

Probiotics and prebiotics, mainly commercialised as food ingredients and also as supplements, are considered highly profitable niche markets. However, in recent years, the food industry has suffered from a series of health claim restrictions on probiotics and prebiotics in many parts of the world, including those made by the European Food Safety Authority. Therefore, we reviewed the core benefits of probiotic and prebiotic consumption on health. A number of studies have examined the prevention and/or management of intestinal infections, respiratory tract infections, CVD, osteoporosis, urogenital infections, cavities, periodontal disease and halitosis, allergic reactions, inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome andHelicobacter pylorigastric infections. In fact, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved in human microbiota and immune system modulation by probiotics and prebiotics relies on continuous efforts to establish suitable biomarkers of health and diseases risk factors for the design of clinical trials required for health claim approval. In spite of the promising results, the performance of large, long-term, well-planned, well-aligned clinical studies is crucial to provide more reliability and a more solid basis for the outcomes achieved and to support the potential use of probiotics and prebiotics in clinical practice.
Spontaneous regression of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sipaul F , Ling B , Mason C , Keast A
Published: October 2015

Background:

Spontaneous regression of solid malignancy is extremely rare. It is virtually unheard of in the last half century in the published literature. The overwhelming majority of medical professionals do not know that this phenomenon exists.

Case report:

This paper reports such a case involving a patient with proven laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in New Zealand. Whilst waiting for definitive treatment, he was afflicted with prolonged septicaemia secondary to peritonitis from percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube insertion. Following a total laryngectomy, histology of the specimen did not contain any evidence of neoplasia.

Conclusion:

Based predominantly on work established by Dr William Coley, we believe that a period of prolonged pyrexia preceding definitive surgery contributed to this apparent ‘miracle’. The time may be ripe to further debate on whether the medical profession should consider pyrexia therapy as a last resort treatment for patients deemed incurable by conventional methods.
Comparison of parasitological, immunological and molecular methods for evaluation of fecal samples of immunosuppressed rats experimentally infected withStrongyloides venezuelensis
Authors: CHAVES LEILANE A. , GONÇALVES ANA LÚCIA R. , PAULA FABIANA M. , SILVA NEIDE. M. , SILVA CLÁUDIO V. , COSTA-CRUZ JULIA M. , FREITAS MICHELLE A. R.
Published: October 2015

Definitive diagnosis of strongyloidiasis in humans is typically achieved by detection of larvae in fecal samples. However, limitations on sensitivity of parasitological methods emphasize the need for more robust diagnostic methods. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of three methods: eggs per gram of feces (EPG), coproantigen detection by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and DNA detection by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The assays were performed at 0 and 5, 8, 13, 21 and 39 days post-infection (dpi) using fecal samples from experimentally infected immunocompetent and immunosuppressed rats. In immunocompetent rats, eggs were detected in feces on days 5, 8 and 13 dpi; coproantigen detection and PCR amplification were successful at all post-infection time points (5, 8, 13, 21 and 39 dpi). In immunosuppressed rats, eggs were detected at 5, 8, 13 and 21; coproantigen detection and PCR amplification were successful at all post-infection time points. In conclusion, these results suggest that coproantigen detection and PCR may be more sensitive alternatives to traditional methods such as EPG for diagnosis ofStrongyloides venezuelensisinfection.
A survey on automating configuration and parameterization in evolutionary design exploration
Authors: Eichhoff Julian R. , Roller Dieter
Published: October 2015

Configuration and parameterization of optimization frameworks for the computational support of design exploration can become an exclusive barrier for the adoption of such systems by engineers. This work addresses the problem of defining the elements that constitute a multiple-objective design optimization problem, that is, design variables, constants, objective functions, and constraint functions. In light of this, contributions are reviewed from the field of evolutionary design optimization with respect to their concrete implementation for design exploration. Machine learning and natural language processing are supposed to facilitate feasible approaches to the support of configuration and parameterization. Hence, the authors further review promising machine learning and natural language processing methods for automatic knowledge elicitation and formalization with respect to their implementation for evolutionary design optimization. These methods come from the fields of product attribute extraction, clustering of design solutions, relationship discovery, computation of objective functions, metamodeling, and design pattern extraction.
Ventricular tachycardia in a child with diabetic ketoacidosis without heart disease
Authors: McGreevy Megan , Beerman Lee , Arora Gaurav
Published: October 2015

Ventricular tachycardia is uncommon in children without CHD. We present the case of a 15-year-old boy who presented with severe diabetic ketoacidosis and ventricular tachycardia and was not responsive to traditional anti-arrhythmic therapy. This case highlights the importance of identification of the underlying metabolic derangement causing the arrhythmia to provide appropriate management.
Is neutral humanitarian action permissible under Islamic law?
Authors: Mohd Kamal Mohd Hisham
Published: October 2015

In this Opinion Note, Mohd Hisham Mohd Kamal examines neutral humanitarian action during armed conflicts from an Islamic perspective. By analyzing the Qur'an and theSunnah, he finds that it is permissible to recognize a neutral third party. Moreover, Mohd Hisham Mohd Kamal considerssiyasah al-Shar'iyyahandmaqasid al-Shari'ahand finds that neutrality leads to the protection of lives and dignity and is thus compatible with the two concepts. He concludes that neutrality is permissible from the Islamic perspective.
Walking the walk: Evidence of Principles in Action from Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies
Authors: Kyazze Amelia B.
Published: October 2015

Using evidence from nine different National Societies, this essay illustrates how the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are practically applied in today's diverse contexts. The research has found that the Principles are not just abstract concepts but are in fact practical tools for initiating and implementing a range of programmes, particularly in difficult situations. The Fundamental Principles are useful for increasing access in both conflict and peaceful situations. Strong leadership is an important factor to ensure that the Principles are applied, particularly when neutrality is challenged. Lastly, all seven Principles work together and give additional strength to programmes when working as part of the Movement.
Der Einsatz von Lernsoftware bei Lernstörungen
Authors: Schweizer Karin
Published: October 2015

Zusammenfassung. Digitale Medien nehmen im Alltag von Kindern und Jugendlichen einen großen Raum ein. Dies zeigen nicht zuletzt die Kim-Studie 2012 sowie die Jim-Studie 2013 vom medienpädagogischen Forschungsverbund Südwest. Eine überkritische Beurteilung solchen Verhaltens ist dabei nicht angebracht, denn Computerspiele und Lernsoftware zeigen aus entwicklungspsychologischer Sicht viele Gemeinsamkeiten mit herkömmlichen Spielen wie z. B. dass das Spiel völlig zweckfrei erfolgen kann, dass Bedingungen hergestellt werden, zu denen man normalerweise nicht in der Lage ist, sowie Wiederholungen und Rituale zur Vervollkommnung unterschiedlicher Fähigkeiten und Fertigkeiten. Zu überlegen ist daher, wie Lernsoftware auch in der therapeutischen Praxis integriert werden kann, um die Vorteile zu nutzen und Kinder und Jugendliche zu medienkompetenten Verhalten anzuleiten. Dazu werden zunächst zwei Bereiche, die Förderung metakognitiver Strategien und die Förderung des Lesens und Rechtschreibens in den Blick genommen. Nachdem eine kurze Einführung in die Klassifikation von Lernsoftware gegeben wurde, wird anhand dieser Problemfelder aufgezeigt, wie Lernprogramme hier eingesetzt werden können. Abschließend werden die Ergebnisse einer Online-Befragung zum Einsatz von Lernsoftware und PC in der therapeutischen Praxis geschildert. Neben einer eher positiven Einstellung zu digitalen Medien insgesamt zeigt sich, dass etwas mehr als die Hälfte der 41 Personen, die den Fragebogen vollständig ausgefüllt haben, bereits Lernsoftware einsetzt bzw. am PC arbeitet. In den meisten Fällen erfolgt ein solcher Einsatz jedoch eher kurz und zur Belohnung oder Motivation bzw. Auflockerung. Die Einschätzung der bisher genutzten Programme zur Förderung von Kompetenzen ist unterschiedlich; ein wichtiger Punkt scheint jedoch zu sein, dass Lernsoftware die Therapeutin bzw. den Therapeuten nicht ersetzen kann, da vor allem Kommunikation und der Kontakt bzw. der Aufbau einer Beziehung wesentlich sind. Zu beachten ist, dass diese Ergebnisse nicht verallgemeinert werden können.
Die TUebinger LernPlattform zum Erwerb numerischer und orthografischer Kompetenzen (TULPE)
Authors: Jung Stefanie , Huber Stefan , Heller Juergen , Grust Torsten , Möller Korbinian , Nuerk Hans-Christoph
Published: October 2015

Zusammenfassung. Digitale Medien haben nicht nur die Kinderzimmer erobert, sondern sind mittlerweile fester Bestandteil einer modernen Schulbildung. Der Einsatz von Online-Lernumgebungen und -spielen, in und außerhalb von pädagogischen Kontexten, erlaubt es selbst traditionelle Lerninhalte spielerisch und unabhängig von Ort und Zeit zu vermitteln. Die im Folgenden vorgestellte «TUebinger LernPlattform zum Erwerb numerischer und orthografischer Kompetenzen (TULPE)» bietet individuelles Lernen zentraler Kulturtechniken auch außerhalb des Klassenraums. Mithilfe adaptiver Verfahren lassen sich die Rechen- und Rechtschreibspiele der TULPE an individuelle Lernermerkmale anpassen: Zuerst wird in einer adaptiven Diagnostik der Lern- und Förderbedarf eingeschätzt. Entsprechend dieser Einschätzung können in einem zweiten Schritt Lernspiele adaptiert bzw. Lern- und Spielpartner mit ähnlichem Leistungsniveau ausgewählt werden. Auf diese Weise soll effektives Lernen ermöglicht werden, das den Bedürfnissen unserer Kinder in ihrer digitalisierten Lebenswirklichkeit entspricht.
Developing an intervention to facilitate family communication about inherited genetic conditions, and training genetic counsellors in its delivery
Authors:   The Socio-Psychological Research in Genomics (SPRinG) Collaboration:, Eisler Ivan , Ellison Matthew , Flinter Frances , Grey Jo , Hutchison Suzanne , Jackson Carole , Longworth Louise , MacLeod Rhona , McAllister Marion , Metcalfe Alison , Murrells Trevor , Patch Christine , Pritchard Stuart , Robert Glenn , Rowland Emma , Ulph Fiona
Published: October 2015

Many families experience difficulty in talking about an inherited genetic condition that affects one or more of them. There have now been a number of studies identifying the issues in detail, however few have developed interventions to assist families. The SPRinG collaborative have used the UK Medical Research Council’s guidance on Developing and Evaluating Complex Interventions, to work with families and genetic counsellors (GCs) to co-design a psycho-educational intervention to facilitate family communication and promote better coping and adaptation to living with an inherited genetic condition for parents and their children (<18 years). The intervention is modelled on multi-family discussion groups (MFDGs) used in psychiatric settings. The MFDG was developed and tested over three phases. First focus groups with parents, young people, children and health professionals discussed whether MFDG was acceptable and proposed a suitable design. Using evidence and focus group data, the intervention and a training manual were developed and three GCs were trained in its delivery. Finally, a prototype MFDG was led by a family therapist and co-facilitated by the three GCs. Data analysis showed that families attending the focus groups and intervention thought MFDG highly beneficial, and the pilot sessions had a significant impact on their family’ functioning. We also demonstrated that it is possible to train GCs to deliver the MFDG intervention. Further studies are now required to test the feasibility of undertaking a definitive randomised controlled trial to evaluate its effectiveness in improving family outcomes before implementing into genetic counselling practice.
Large-scale association analysis in Asians identifies new susceptibility loci for prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Meilin , Takahashi Atsushi , Liu Fang , Ye Dingwei , Ding Qiang , Qin Chao , Yin Changjun , Zhang Zhengdong , Matsuda Koichi , Kubo Michiaki , Na Rong , Lin Xiaoling , Jiang Haowen , Ren Shancheng , Sun Jielin , Zheng S. Lilly , Marchand Loic Le , Isaacs William B. , Mo Zengnan , Haiman Christopher A. , Sun Yinghao , Nakagawa Hidewaki , Xu Jianfeng
Published: October 2015

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified ∼100 genetic loci associated with prostate cancer risk. Less than a dozen of these loci were initially identified from GWAS in two Asian populations, likely because of smaller sample sizes of these individual GWAS in Asians. Here, we conduct a large-scale meta-analysis of two GWAS from the Japanese population (1,583 cases and 3,386 controls) and the Chinese population (1,417 cases and 1,008 controls), followed by replication in three independent sample sets. We identify two independent susceptibility loci for prostate cancer at 11p15.4 (rs12791447, P=3.59 × 10−8; PPFIBP2) and 14q23.2 (rs58262369, P=6.05 × 10−10; ESR2). The mRNA levels of PPFIBP2 and ESR2 are differentially expressed in prostate tumours and paired normal tissues. Our study adds two new loci to the limited number of prostate cancer risk-associated variants in Asians and provides important insight into potential biological mechanisms of prostate cancer.
A PI3K p110β–Rac signalling loop mediates Pten-loss-induced perturbation of haematopoiesis and leukaemogenesis
Authors: Yuzugullu Haluk , Baitsch Lukas , Von Thanh , Steiner Allison , Tong Haoxuan , Ni Jing , Clayton Linda K. , Bronson Roderick , Roberts Thomas M. , Gritsman Kira , Zhao Jean J.
Published: October 2015

The tumour suppressor PTEN, which antagonizes PI3K signalling, is frequently inactivated in haematologic malignancies. In mice, deletion of PTEN in haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) causes perturbed haematopoiesis, myeloproliferative neoplasia (MPN) and leukaemia. Although the roles of the PI3K isoforms have been studied in PTEN-deficient tumours, their individual roles in PTEN-deficient HSCs are unknown. Here we show that when we delete PTEN in HSCs using the Mx1–Cre system, p110β ablation prevents MPN, improves HSC function and suppresses leukaemia initiation. Pharmacologic inhibition of p110β in PTEN-deficient mice recapitulates these genetic findings, but suggests involvement of both Akt-dependent and -independent pathways. Further investigation reveals that a p110β–Rac signalling loop plays a critical role in PTEN-deficient HSCs. Together, these data suggest that myeloid neoplasia driven by PTEN loss is dependent on p110β via p110β–Rac-positive-feedback loop, and that disruption of this loop may offer a new and effective therapeutic strategy for PTEN-deficient leukaemia.
Giant photovoltaic effect of ferroelectric domain walls in perovskite single crystals
Authors: Inoue Ryotaro , Ishikawa Shotaro , Imura Ryota , Kitanaka Yuuki , Oguchi Takeshi , Noguchi Yuji , Miyayama Masaru
Published: October 2015

The photovoltaic (PV) effect in polar materials offers great potential for light-energy conversion that generates a voltage beyond the bandgap limit of present semiconductor-based solar cells. Ferroelectrics have received renewed attention because of the ability to deliver a high voltage in the presence of ferroelastic domain walls (DWs). In recent years, there has been considerable debate over the impact of the DWs on the PV effects, owing to lack of information on the bulk PV tensor of host ferroelectrics. In this article, we provide the first direct evidence of an unusually large PV response induced by ferroelastic DWs—termed ‘DW’-PV effect. The precise estimation of the bulk PV tensor in single crystals of barium titanate enables us to quantify the giant PV effect driven by 90° DWs. We show that the DW-PV effect arises from an effective electric field consisting of a potential step and a local PV component in the 90° DW region. This work offers a starting point for further investigation into the DW-PV effect of alternative systems and opens a reliable route for enhancing the PV properties in ferroelectrics based on the engineering of domain structures in either bulk or thin-film form.
Volatile Organic Metabolites Identify Patients with Mesangial Proliferative Glomerulonephritis, IgA Nephropathy and Normal Controls
Authors: Wang Changsong , Feng Yue , Wang Mingao , Pi Xin , Tong Hongshuang , Wang Yue , Zhu Lin , Li Enyou
Published: October 2015

Urinary volatile organic compounds (VOCs) analysis for kidney diseases has attracted a large amount of scientific interest recently and urinary metabolite analysis has already been applied to many diseases. Urine was collected from 15 mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis (MsPGN) patients, 21 IgA nephropathy (IgAN) patients and 15 healthy controls. Solid phase microextraction–chromatography– mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-MS) was used to analyse the urinary metabolites. The statistical methods principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLSDA) were performed to process the final data. Five metabolites were significantly greater in the group of MsPGN patients than in the normal control group (P < 0.05) while three metabolites were found at increased levels in the group of IgAN patients compared with the normal controls (P < 0.05). In addition, five metabolites were significantly increased in the group of IgAN patients compared with the MsPGN patients (P < 0.05). These five metabolites may be specific biomarkers for distinguishing between MsPGN and IgAN. The analysis of urinary VOCs appears to have potential clinical applications as a diagnostic tool.
A combinatorial approach towards the design of nanofibrous scaffolds for chondrogenesis
Authors: Ahmed Maqsood , Ramos Tiago André da Silva , Damanik Febriyani , Quang Le Bach , Wieringa Paul , Bennink Martin , van Blitterswijk Clemens , de Boer Jan , Moroni Lorenzo
Published: October 2015

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a three-dimensional (3D) structure composed of proteinaceous fibres that provide physical and biological cues to direct cell behaviour. Here, we build a library of hybrid collagen-polymer fibrous scaffolds with nanoscale dimensions and screen them for their ability to grow chondrocytes for cartilage repair. Poly(lactic acid) and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) at two different monomer ratios (85:15 and 50:50) were incrementally blended with collagen. Physical properties (wettability and stiffness) of the scaffolds were characterized and related to biological performance (proliferation, ECM production and gene expression) and structure-function relationships were developed. We found that soft scaffolds with an intermediate wettability composed of the highly biodegradable PLGA50:50 and collagen, in two ratios (40:60 and 60:40), were optimal for chondrogenic differentiation of ATDC5 cells as determined by increased ECM production and enhanced cartilage specific gene expression. Long-term cultures indicated a stable phenotype with minimal de-differentiation or hypertrophy. The combinatorial methodology applied herein is a promising approach for the design and development of scaffolds for regenerative medicine.
Mapping the H+ (V)-ATPase interactome: identification of proteins involved in trafficking, folding, assembly and phosphorylation
Authors: Merkulova Maria , Păunescu Teodor G. , Azroyan Anie , Marshansky Vladimir , Breton Sylvie , Brown Dennis
Published: October 2015

V-ATPases (H+ ATPases) are multisubunit, ATP-dependent proton pumps that regulate pH homeostasis in virtually all eukaryotes. They are involved in key cell biological processes including vesicle trafficking, endosomal pH sensing, membrane fusion and intracellular signaling. They also have critical systemic roles in renal acid excretion and blood pH balance, male fertility, bone remodeling, synaptic transmission, olfaction and hearing. Furthermore, V-ATPase dysfunction either results in or aggravates various other diseases, but little is known about the complex protein interactions that regulate these varied V-ATPase functions. Therefore, we performed a proteomic analysis to identify V-ATPase associated proteins and construct a V-ATPase interactome. Our analysis using kidney tissue revealed V-ATPase-associated protein clusters involved in protein quality control, complex assembly and intracellular trafficking. ARHGEF7, DMXL1, EZR, NCOA7, OXR1, RPS6KA3, SNX27 and 9 subunits of the chaperonin containing TCP1 complex (CCT) were found to interact with V-ATPase for the first time in this study. Knockdown of two interacting proteins, DMXL1 and WDR7, inhibited V-ATPase-mediated intracellular vesicle acidification in a kidney cell line, providing validation for the utility of our interactome as a screen for functionally important novel V-ATPase-regulating proteins. Our data, therefore, provide new insights and directions for the analysis of V-ATPase cell biology and (patho)physiology.