bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient and Green Method for Regio‐ and Chemo‐Selective Friedel—Crafts Acylations Using a Deep Eutectic Solvent ([CholineCl][ZnCl2]3).
Authors: Tran Phuong Hoang , Nguyen Hai Truong , Hansen Poul Erik , Le Thach Ngoc
Published: August 2016

[CholineCl][ZnCl2]3 is used as a dual function catalyst and green solvent for the Friedel—Crafts acylation of aromatic compounds instead of using moisture‐sensitive Lewis acids and volatile organic solvents.
ChemInform Abstract: Phenyliodonium Diacetate Mediated Oxidative Functionalization of Styrenes with Molecular Oxygen: Synthesis of α‐Oxygenated Ketones.
Authors: Samanta Supravat , Donthiri Ramachandra Reddy , Ravi Chitrakar , Adimurthy Subbarayappa
Published: August 2016

Variously substituted styrenes, 1H‐indene, 1,2‐dihydronaphthalene, and cyclohexa‐1,3‐diene readily react with N‐hydroxyphthalimide or N‐hydroxybenzotriazole in the presence of PhI(OAc)2 and molecular oxygen.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Enamides with Sterically Hindered α‐Bromocarbonyls
Authors: Ding Ran , Huang Zhi‐Dao , Liu Zheng‐Li , Wang Tian‐Xiang , Xu Yun‐He , Loh Teck‐Peng
Published: August 2016

affording various multi‐substituted alkene products under mild reaction conditions
ChemInform Abstract: K2CO3‐Promoted Formation of Aryl Esters from Primary Aryl Amides by the Acyl—Acyl Exchange Process
Authors: Bian Yongjun , Qu Xingyu
Published: August 2016

The metal‐free reaction is not applicable to secondary or tertiary aryl amides, to alkyl amides or alkyl esters.
ChemInform Abstract: Dual C—F, C—H Functionalization via Photocatalysis: Access to Multifluorinated Biaryls.
Authors: Senaweera Sameera , Weaver Jimmie D.
Published: August 2016

This photocatalytic coupling of one C—F bond of a polyfluoroarene with the C—H bond of another arene uses readily accessible starting materials, proceeds under mild conditions, and shows high functional group tolerance, thus offering a benign alternative to traditional cross‐coupling strategies.
ChemInform Abstract: Arylcalixarenyl Phosphines in Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki—Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reactions.
Authors: Elaieb Fethi , Hedhli Ahmed , Semeril David , Matt Dominique
Published: August 2016

Calix[4]arene (CAX) is an efficient ligand for Pd‐catalyzed Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions of sterically hindered aryl chlorides and boronic acids.
ChemInform Abstract: Ligand‐Promoted Rh(III)‐Catalyzed Coupling of Aryl C—H Bonds with Arylboron Reagents.
Authors: Wang Huai‐Wei , Cui Pei‐Pei , Lu Yi , Sun Wei‐Yin , Yu Jin‐Quan
Published: August 2016

A regioselective Rh(III)‐catalyzed C—H arylation of arenes with arylboronic acid pinacol esters is developed using N‐pentafluorophenylbenzamide as directing group.
ChemInform Abstract: Preparation of 2‐Azetidinones by Cyclocondensation of Carboxylic Acids and Imines via Diphosphorustetraiodide.
Authors: Zarei Maaroof , Maaqooli Fatemeh
Published: August 2016

Title compounds are directly synthesized by reaction of imines (I) with carboxylic acids using diphosphorus tetraiodide under mild conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Direct CuO Nanoparticle‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Poly‐Substituted Furans via Oxidative C—H/C—H Functionalization in Aqueous Medium.
Authors: Payra Soumen , Saha Arijit , Guchhait Sandip , Banerjee Subhash
Published: August 2016

The title furans are prepared by functionalization of 1,3‐dicarbonyls or β‐keto esters with α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds via conjugate addition initiated domino reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Cu(I)‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Furan‐Substituted Allenes by Use of Conjugated Ene‐Yne Ketones as Carbene Precursors.
Authors: Hu Fangdong , Xia Ying , Ma Chen , Zhang Yan , Wang Jianbo
Published: August 2016

The mild reaction protocol allows for the preparation of a wide range of furan substituted allenes which may contain various functional groups.
ChemInform Abstract: Diastereoselective Cascade Assembly of Functionalized Pyrano[3,4‐c]pyrrole Derivatives.
Authors: Ievlev Mikhail Yu. , Ershov Oleg V. , Tafeenko Viktor A.
Published: August 2016

The starting materials are readily obtained from acid‐catalyzed reaction of ketones with tetracyanoethylene.
ChemInform Abstract: Sequential Diels—Alder Reactions in a Conjugated Tetraene System.
Authors: Saeed Abaee M. , Mohammadi Mohadeseh , Mohammadi Akram , Mojtahedi Mohammad M. , Taghi Rezaei M. , Saberi Farveh , Harms Klaus
Published: August 2016

Reaction of dienone (I) with two equivalents of N‐phenylmaleimide proceeds as a sequence of two sequential Diels—Alder reactions furnishing the bis‐adduct (III) in excellent yield.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient and Recyclable Thiourea‐Supported Copper(I) Chloride Catalyst for Azide—Alkyne Cycloaddition Reactions.
Authors: Barman Milan Kr. , Sinha Ashish Kumar , Nembenna Sharanappa
Published: August 2016

Various triazole derivatives are synthesized via [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction of azides with terminal alkynes (II) or alkyne (VI) using the title copper complex as a highly active catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: KMnO4/AcOH‐Mediated C3‐Selective Direct Arylation of Coumarins with Arylboronic Acids.
Authors: Yuan Jin‐Wei , Yang Liang‐Ru , Yin Qiu‐Yue , Mao Pu , Qu Ling‐Bo
Published: August 2016

The KMnO4 alkylation and arylation of coumarins (I) with boronic acids proceeds regioselectively to afford 3‐substituted coumarin derivatives (III) and (V).
ChemInform Abstract: Silyl Assistance in the Intramolecular Addition of Pyridyl Radicals onto Pyridines and Quinolines.
Authors: Filace Fabiana , Sanchez‐Murcia Pedro A. , Sucunza David , Perez‐Redondo Adrian , Alvarez‐Builla Julio , Gago Federico , Burgos Carolina
Published: August 2016

Intramolecular acylpyridine‐centered radical attack on azine nitrogen generates stable acylazinium salts.
ChemInform Abstract: Rhodium‐Catalyzed Selective Oxidative Coupling of 7‐Azaindoles.
Authors: Li Shuai‐Shuai , Wang Cheng‐Qi , Li Wei‐Huan , Zhang Xiao‐Mei , Dong Lin
Published: August 2016

Various 1‐aryl‐1H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐b]pyridines are selectively coupled with styrene, acrylic acid derivatives or vinyl ethyl ether in position 2 of the aryl substituent.
ChemInform Abstract: Time‐Efficient Synthesis of Pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidinones via α‐Oxoketenes.
Authors: Castillo Juan‐Carlos , Quiroga Jairo , Rodriguez Jean , Coquerel Yoann
Published: August 2016

Reactive α‐oxoketenes are generated in situ by a microwave‐assisted Wolff rearrangement of 2‐diazo‐1,3‐dicarbonyl educts.
ChemInform Abstract: Intramolecular Functionalization of Benzylic Methylene Adjacent to the Ring Nitrogen Atom in N‐Aryltetrahydroisoquinoline Derivatives.
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhang‐Negrerie Daisy , Zhao Kang , Du Yunfei
Published: August 2016

The intramolecular cross‐dehydrogenative cross‐coupling reaction offers access to tetracyclic tetrahydroisoquinoline derivatives with a newly formed C(sp3)—N, C(sp3)—O or C(sp3)—C bond.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Azepino[4,5‐b]indol‐4‐ones via MCR/Free Radical Cyclization and in vitro—in silico Studies as 5‐Ht6R Ligands.
Authors: Renteria‐Gomez Angel , Islas‐Jacome Alejandro , Diaz‐Cervantes Erik , Villasenor‐Granados Tayde , Robles Juvencio , Gamez‐Montano Rocio
Published: August 2016

This is the first report describing the formation of the title compounds (VII) in which the precursors (VI) are prepared in a one‐pot manner by a multicomponent reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Access to Diverse Oxygen Heterocycles via Oxidative Rearrangement of Benzylic Tertiary Alcohols.
Authors: Kelley Brandon T. , Walters Jennifer C. , Wengryniuk Sarah E.
Published: August 2016

Synthetically challenging seven‐membered ring acetals are prepared via a novel oxidative rearrangement of benzylic alcohols using poly(cationic) hypervalent iodine reagents for the first time.
ChemInform Abstract: Unsaturated Phosphonates as Hauser Acceptors for the Synthesis of Phosphonylated Dihydroxynaphthalenes and Naphthoquinones.
Authors: Chaturvedi Atul Kumar , Rastogi Namrata
Published: August 2016

3‐Benzotriazolylphthalides react equally efficiently with either alkenyl or alkynylphosphonates to form 1,4‐dihydronaphthalines which may further be oxidized to the corresponding 2‐phosphonate substituted 1,4‐naphthoquinones equipped with various (het)aryl groups in position 3.
ChemInform Abstract: Controlled Directional Motions of Molecular Vehicles, Rotors, and Motors: From Metallic to Silicon Surfaces, a Strategy to Operate at Higher Temperatures
Authors: Cherioux Frederic , Galangau Olivier , Palmino Frank , Rapenne Gwenael
Published: August 2016

Review: 67 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Nucleosides with Modified Sugar Ring: Synthesis and Biological Activities
Authors: Singh Sarbjit , Bhattarai Deepak , Veeraswamy Gajulapati , Choi Yongseok , Lee Kyeong
Published: August 2016

Review: 131 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: A Masse Shot: Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Selective meta‐C—H Functionalization (ortho‐Metallation and para‐Bromination Relay)
Authors: Liu Liu , Wang Qing , Zhu Ranran , Huang Jianhui
Published: August 2016

Review: [21 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 2,7‐Dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octanes (Microreview)
Authors: Ievlev Mikhail Yu. , Ershov Oleg V.
Published: August 2016

Review: [9 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Dual Modification of Biomolecules
Authors: Maruani Antoine , Richards Daniel A. , Chudasama Vijay
Published: August 2016

Review: 93 refs.
Assessment of the Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, and Safety of Single Doses of TV‐1106, a Long‐Acting Growth Hormone, in Healthy Japanese and Caucasian Subjects
Authors: Cohen‐Barak Orit , Barkay Hadas , Rasamoelisolo Michele , Butler Kathleen , Yamada Kazumasa , Bassan Merav , Yoon Esther , Spiegelstein Ofer
Published: August 2016

TV‐1106 is a human serum albumin genetically fused to recombinant human growth hormone, designed to provide a long‐acting alternative to daily growth hormone (GH) injections in patients with GH deficiency. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of single subcutaneous doses of TV‐1106 (7.5, 15, 50, and 100 mg) in Japanese (n = 44) and caucasian (n = 44) healthy subjects. TV‐1106 pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were comparable in Japanese and caucasian populations. TV‐1106 demonstrated relatively slow absorption (median tmax, 10–30 hours) and a mean elimination half‐life of 26–36 hours. Apparent clearance and volume of distribution decreased with increasing TV‐1106 doses in both populations and appeared to increase more than dose proportionality across the tested doses. Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and IGF binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3) increased in a dose‐related manner, with maximum responses observed at 33–96 and 42–109 hours, respectively. IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 returned to baseline values at 168 hours following 7.5 and 15 mg of TV‐1106, and 336 hours following 50 and 100 mg of TV‐1106. TV‐1106 appeared safe in both populations. There was no evidence of differences in pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, or safety of TV‐1106 between Japanese and caucasian populations. The data also demonstrate long‐acting growth hormone properties of TV‐1106 and support its potential for once‐weekly dosing.
Long time horizon for adaptive management to reveal predation effects in a salmon fishery
Authors: Walsworth Timothy E. , Schindler Daniel E.
Published: August 2016

Predator–prey interactions shape ecosystem structure and function, potentially limiting the productivity of valuable species. Simultaneously, stochastic environmental forcing affects species productivity, often through unknown mechanisms. The interacting effects of trophic and environmental conditions complicate management of exploited ecosystems and have motivated calls for more holistic management via ecosystem‐based approaches, yet the limitations to these approaches are not widely appreciated. The Chignik salmon fishery in Alaska is managed to achieve maximum sustainable yield for sockeye salmon, though research suggests that predation by less economically valuable, and thus not targeted, coho salmon during juvenile rearing limits the productivity of sockeye salmon. We examined the relationship between historical sockeye salmon recruitment and coho salmon abundance observed in the Chignik system and could not detect a clear effect of coho salmon abundance on sockeye salmon productivity, given existing data. Using simulation models, we examined the probability of detecting a known predation effect on sockeye salmon recruitment in the presence of observation error in coho salmon abundance and stochasticity in sockeye salmon recruitment. Increased recruitment stochasticity reduced the ability to detect predator effects in recruitment, an effect further strengthened when low frequency environmental variation was added to the system. Further, increased observation error biased estimates of predator effects towards zero. Thus, in systems with high observation error on predator abundances, estimates of predation effects will be substantially weaker than true effects. We examined the effects of stochasticity on the ability of an adaptive management program to learn about ecosystem structure and detect an effect of management actions intended to release a prey species from its predators. Simulation models revealed that even under scenarios of large predation effects on sockeye salmon, stochastic recruitment masked detection of an effect of increased coho salmon harvest for nearly a decade. These results highlight the challenges inherent in ecosystem‐based management of predator–prey systems due to mismatched timescales of ecosystem dynamics and the willingness of stakeholders to risk losses in order to test uncertain hypotheses. It is critical for stakeholders considering EBFM (ecosystem‐based fisheries management) and adaptive management strategies to be aware of the potential timelines of perceiving ecosystem change.
Relaxin serum levels in acute heart failure are associated with pulmonary hypertension and right heart overload
Authors: Pintalhao Mariana , Castro‐Chaves Paulo , Vasques‐Novoa Francisco , Gonçalves Francisco , Mendonça Luís , Fontes‐Carvalho Ricardo , Lourenço Patrícia , Almeida Pedro , Leite‐Moreira Adelino , Bettencourt Paulo
Published: August 2016

Aims

Despite the promising results of serelaxin as a new potential acute heart failure (HF) therapy, its clinical use preceded the understanding of the endogenous relaxin system in HF. We aimed to evaluate relaxin circulating levels in a population of acute HF and their association with clinical and echocardiographic parameters.

Methods and results

We included 117 patients from a registry of acute HF. Admission serum relaxin was measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Clinical, analytical, and echocardiographic parameters were compared between patients with relaxin levels above and below the median. Median age was 82 years [interquartile range (IQR) 72–87], 41% of the patients were male, and 63% had systolic dysfunction. Median serum relaxin was 31.4 pg/mL (IQR 0.6–89.8). Patients with relaxin levels above the median had more peripheral oedema (89.8% vs. 68.4%, P = 0.004) and a significantly higher sodium retention score (mean 4.8 ± 1.5 vs. 3.6 ± 2.0, P < 0.001). These patients also had significantly higher systolic pulmonary arterial pressure [median 47.0 (IQR 36.0–61.0) vs. 34.5 (IQR 25.0–51.0) mmHg, P = 0.002], higher prevalence of right ventricular (RV) systolic dysfunction (28.1% vs. 10.3%, P = 0.02), RV dilation (31.0% vs. 5.3%, P < 0.001), and right atrial dilation (66.1% vs. 36.5%, P = 0.002), and less inferior vena cava diameter variability (40% vs. 60%, P = 0.009). No differences were noted regarding admission blood pressure, left chamber dimensions, or LV function.

Conclusion

In our population of acute HF patients, admission relaxin serum levels were associated with clinical and echocardiographic markers of pulmonary hypertension, RV dysfunction, and overload, suggesting a role for circulating relaxin as a biomarker in this setting.
The effect of land cover change on duration and severity of high and low flows
Authors: Ahn Kuk‐Hyun , Merwade Venkatesh
Published: August 2016

Land cover has been increasingly recognized as an important factor affecting hydrologic processes at the basin and regional level. Therefore, improved understanding of how land cover change affects hydrologic systems is needed for better management of water resources. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of land cover change on the duration and severity of high and low flows by using the Soil Water Assessment Tool model, Bayesian model averaging and copulas. Two basins dominated by different land cover in the Ohio River basin are used as study area in this study. Two historic land covers from the 1950s and 1990s are considered as input to the Soil Water Assessment Tool model, thereby investigating the hydrologic high and low flow response of different land cover conditions of these two basins. The relationships between the duration and severity of both low and high flow are defined by applying the copula method; changes in the frequency of the duration and severity are investigated. The results show that land cover changes affect both the duration and severity of both high and low flows. An increase in forest area leads to a decrease in the duration and severity during both high and low flows, but its impact is highest during extreme flows. The results also show that the land cover changes have had significant influences on changes in the joint return periods of duration and severity of low and high flows. While this study sheds light on the role of land cover change on severity and duration of high and low flow conditions, more studies using various land cover conditions and climate types are required in order to draw more reliable conclusions in the future. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Floods in the Southern Alps of New Zealand: the importance of atmospheric rivers
Authors: Kingston Daniel. G. , Lavers David A. , Hannah David M.
Published: August 2016

Extremely high precipitation occurs in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, associated with both orographic enhancement and synoptic‐scale weather processes. In this study, we test the hypothesis that atmospheric rivers (ARs) are a key driver of floods in the Southern Alps of New Zealand. Vertically integrated water vapour and horizontal water vapour transport, and atmospheric circulation, are investigated concurrently with major floods on the Waitaki River (a major South Island river). Analysis of the largest eight winter maximum floods between 1979 and 2012 indicates that all are associated with ARs. Geopotential height fields reveal that these ARs are located in slow eastward moving extratropical cyclones, with high pressure to the northeast of New Zealand. The confirmation of ARs as a contributor to Waitaki flooding indicates the need for their further exploration to better understand South Island hydrometeorological extremes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deletion of FoxO1, 3, and 4 in Osteoblast Progenitors Attenuates the Loss of Cancellous Bone Mass in a Mouse Model of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Iyer Srividhya , Han Li , Ambrogini Elena , Yavropoulou Maria , Fowlkes John , Manolagas Stavros C , Almeida Maria
Published: August 2016

Type 1 diabetes is associated with osteopenia and increased fragility fractures, attributed to reduced bone formation. However, the molecular mechanisms mediating these effects remain unknown. Insulin promotes osteoblast formation and inhibits the activity of the FoxO transcription factors. FoxOs, on the other hand, inhibit osteoprogenitor proliferation and bone formation. Here, we investigated whether FoxOs play a role in the low bone mass associated with type 1 diabetes, using mice lacking FoxO1, 3, and 4 in osteoprogenitor cells (FoxO1,3,4ΔOsx1-Cre). Streptozotocin-induced diabetes caused a reduction in bone mass and strength in FoxO-intact mice. In contrast, cancellous bone was unaffected in diabetic FoxO1,3,4ΔOsx1-Cre mice. The low bone mass in the FoxO-intact diabetic mice was associated with decreased osteoblast number and bone formation, as well as decreased expression of the anti-osteoclastogenic cytokine osteoprotegerin (OPG) and increased osteoclast number. FoxO deficiency did not alter the effects of diabetes on bone formation; however, it did prevent the decrease in OPG and the increase in osteoclast number. Addition of high glucose to osteoblastic cell cultures decreased OPG mRNA, indicating that hyperglycemia in and of itself contributes to diabetic bone loss. Taken together, these results suggest that FoxOs exacerbate the loss of cancellous bone mass associated with type 1 diabetes and that inactivation of FoxOs might ameliorate the adverse effects of insulin deficiency. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
DNA fragments assembled on polyamidoamine‐grafted core‐shell magnetic silica nanoparticles for removal of mercury(II) and methylmercury(I)
Authors: Liang Xiao , Ge Ying , Wu Zhenglong , Qin Weidong
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND

Hg(II) and MeHg(I) are toxic pollutants causing wide concerns. Polyamidoamine‐grafted magnetic silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4‐SiO2‐PAMAMs) were synthesized as beads, on which herring sperm DNA fragments were immobilized as reacting moieties for removal of Hg(II) and MeHg(I) from water matrices. The factors influencing the removal, such as DNA fragments, generation of the polyamidoamine spacers and pH, were studied. Further, the adsorption mechanisms were explored by means of adsorption kinetics and isotherms.

RESULTS

Assembling DNA fragments on the polyamidoamine‐grafted beads promoted sharply the removal of both Hg(II) and MeHg(I). Adsorptions of Hg(II) and MeHg(I) followed pseudo‐second‐order kinetics; but their adsorption isotherms obeyed Langmuir and Freundlich models, respectively. Under the optimum conditions, the adsorption equilibrium time was approximately 5 min for Hg(II) and 5 s for MeHg(I) with maximum percentage removals of ∼95% and ∼90%, respectively. The adsorbent could be regenerated easily without significant decrease in removal efficiencies.

CONCLUSION

The Fe3O4‐SiO2‐PAMAM beads could bind DNA steadily, and the DNA fragments interacted strongly with mercury species. The strategy enabled the water‐soluble DNAs to work as efficient removing reagents for rapid and cost‐effective removal of Hg(II) and MeHg(I). © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
What are the appropriate indicators of surgical difficulty during laparoscopic cholecystectomy? Results from a Japan‐Korea‐Taiwan multinational survey
Authors: Iwashita Yukio , Ohyama Tetsuji , Honda Goro , Hibi Taizo , Yoshida Masahiro , Miura Fumihiko , Takada Tadahiro , Han Ho‐Seong , Hwang Tsann‐Long , Shinya Satoshi , Suzuki Kenji , Umezawa Akiko , Yoon Yoo‐Seok , Choi In‐Seok , Huang Wayne Shih‐Wei , Chen Kuo‐Hsin , Watanabe Manabu , Abe Yuta , Misawa Takeyuki , Nagakawa Yuichi , Yoon Dong‐Sup , Jang Jin‐Young , Yu Hee Chul , Ahn Keun Soo , Kim Song Cheol , Song In Sang , Kim Ji Hoon , Yun Sung Su , Choi Seong Ho , Jan Yi‐Yin , Sheen‐Chen Shyr‐Ming , Shan Yan‐Shen , Ker Chen‐Guo , Chan De‐Chuan , Lee King‐Teh , Toyota Naoyuki , Higuchi Ryota , Nakamura Yoshiharu , Mizuguchi Yoshiaki , Takeda Yutaka , Ito Masahiro , Norimizu Shinji , Yamada Shigetoshi , Matsumura Naoki , Shindoh Junichi , Sunagawa Hiroki , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Rikiyama Toshiki , Sata Naohiro , Kano Nobuyasu , Kitano Seigo , Tokumura Hiromi , Yamashita Yuichi , Watanabe Goro , Nakagawa Kunitoshi , Kimura Taizo , Yamakawa Tatsuo , Wakabayashi Go , Endo Itaru , Miyazaki Masaru , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: August 2016

Background

Serious complications continue to occur in laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). The commonly used indicators of surgical difficulty such as the duration of surgery are insufficient because they are surgeon and institution dependent. We aimed to identify appropriate indicators of surgical difficulty during LC.

Methods

A total of 26 Japanese expert LC surgeons discussed using the nominal group technique (NGT) to generate a list of intraoperative findings that contribute to surgical difficulty. Thereafter, a survey was circulated to 61 experts in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. The questionnaire addressed LC experience, surgical strategy, and perceptions of 30 intraoperative findings listed by the NGT.

Results

The response rate of the survey was 100%. There was a statistically significant difference among nations regarding the duration of surgery and adoption rate of safety measures and recognition of landmarks. The criteria for conversion to an open or subtotal cholecystectomy were at the discretion of each surgeon. In contrast, perceptions of the impact of 30 intraoperative findings on surgical difficulty (categorized by factors related to inflammation and additional findings of the gallbladder and other intra‐abdominal factors) were consistent among surgeons.

Conclusions

Intraoperative findings are objective and considered to be appropriate indicators of surgical difficulty during LC.
A novel automated method for the adjustment of ionic metal concentrations in soil extracts
Authors: Rosen Vasiliy , Chen Yona
Published: August 2016

A novel method is proposed for correcting metal fraction concentrations remaining within the sediment containing the solid residue of the sequentially extracted fraction. An easy‐to‐use Excel spreadsheet was prepared to assist adjustment of concentration in each fraction and demonstrate the difference between adjusted and non‐adjusted metal concentration of the fraction. The demonstration of a calculation of the modified BCR protocol data showed that this difference may reach 10–15% of the result value. The spreadsheet is available to download at: http://departments.agri.huji.ac.il/zabam/Rosen_Chen_Fraction_Adjustment_Formulae.xls
Non‐insulated smooth motion, micro‐needles RF fractional treatment for wrinkle reduction and lifting of the lower face: International study
Authors: Gold Michael , Taylor Mark , Rothaus Kenneth , Tanaka Yohei
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Skin aging occurs through both intrinsic and extrinsic processes. Fractional radiofrequency (RF) with a microneedling array is the newest form of fractional therapy to be useful in treating aging skin. The current study utilized a noninsulated fractional RF microneedling system.

Methods

This multicenter clinical trial saw 49 patients complete 3 monthly treatments with the new fractional RF microneedling treatments and be followed for 3 months following their last treatment. Pain during treatment was recorded as well as overall improvement using a GAIS scale. Adverse events were also noted.

Results

Forty‐nine patients completed all of the treatments and follow‐ups. Mild to moderate erythema were reported immediately after treatment which lasted up to 12 hours after the treatment. Pain, as measured on a 1–10 VAS, was noted to 4, on average. The average Fitzpatrick's wrinkle scale score at baseline was 5.04 ± 1.22, 1 month after 3 treatments 3.829 ± 1.69 and 3 months after 3 treatments 3.5 ± 1.66. These results are statistically highly significant (correlated T‐test, P < 0.001). Improvement was shown in 100% of patients while 65% of patients had significant improvement (GAIS levels 3–5). Significant skin tightening and skin lifting were also observed. No unusual adverse events were noted throughout the course of the study.

Conclusion

This multicenter study showed significant wrinkle reduction, skin tightening, and lifting of the mid and lower face with the noninsulated fractional RF microneedling system. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:727–733, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aspects of electromagnetic scattering in chiral media
Authors: Athanasiadis Christodoulos E. , Dimitroula Sotiria , Kikeri Eleftheria , Skourogiannis Konstantinos I.
Published: August 2016

In this work, we study two operators that arise in electromagnetic scattering in chiral media. We first consider electromagnetic scattering by a chiral dielectric with a perfectly conducting core. We define a chiral Calderon‐type surface operator in order to solve the direct electromagnetic scattering problem. For this operator, we state coercivity and prove compactness properties. In order to prove existence and uniqueness of the problem, we define some other operators that are also related to the chiral Calderon‐type operator, and we state some of their properties that they and their linear combinations satisfy. Then we sketch how to use these operators in order to prove the existence of the solution of the direct scattering problem. Furthermore, we focus on the electromagnetic scattering problem by a perfect conductor in a chiral environment. For this problem, we study the chiral far‐field operator that is defined on a unit sphere and contains the far‐field data, and we state and prove some of its properties that are preliminaries properties for solving the inverse scattering problem. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improving spatial localization in 4DEnVar
Authors: Desroziers Gérald , Arbogast Etienne , Berre Loïk
Published: August 2016

The four‐dimensional ensemble‐variational (4DEnVar) formulation is a credible alternative to the 4D‐Var formulation, especially for numerical weather prediction centres that have invested a lot in this latter formulation during the last decades. First implementations of this technique, however, rely on a simplified form for the localization of the 4D covariances inside the assimilation period. It is shown in this article that the use of a unique localization for all cross‐covariances between perturbations at different times can be a crude approximation, especially in areas where the mean flow speed is large. To overcome this problem, a Lagrangian advection of the localization is proposed. It is first tested in the simplified Burgers' model and then introduced in the real‐size system associated with the French global model Action de Recherche Petite Echelle Grande Echelle (ARPEGE). The test of this advection in both environments shows a significant positive impact in regions where the advection is large. The possibility of using such a Lagrangian advection to evolve the static initial covariance matrix in a flow‐dependent way inside the assimilation period, in a hybrid 4DEnVar formulation, is also investigated.
Deterministic Migration‐Based Separation of White Blood Cells
Authors: Kim Byeongyeon , Choi Young Joon , Seo Hyekyung , Shin Eui‐Cheol , Choi Sungyoung
Published: August 2016

Functional and phenotypic analyses of peripheral white blood cells provide useful clinical information. However, separation of white blood cells from peripheral blood requires a time‐consuming, inconvenient process and thus analyses of separated white blood cells are limited in clinical settings. To overcome this limitation, a microfluidic separation platform is developed to enable deterministic migration of white blood cells, directing the cells into designated positions according to a ridge pattern. The platform uses slant ridge structures on the channel top to induce the deterministic migration, which allows efficient and high‐throughput separation of white blood cells from unprocessed whole blood. The extent of the deterministic migration under various rheological conditions is explored, enabling highly efficient migration of white blood cells in whole blood and achieving high‐throughput separation of the cells (processing 1 mL of whole blood less than 7 min). In the separated cell population, the composition of lymphocyte subpopulations is well preserved, and T cells secrete cytokines without any functional impairment. On the basis of the results, this microfluidic platform is a promising tool for the rapid enrichment of white blood cells, and it is useful for functional and phenotypic analyses of peripheral white blood cells.
Saturated Heavier Group 14 Compounds as ‐Electron‐Acceptor (Z‐Type) Ligands
Authors: Kameo Hajime , Nakazawa Hiroshi
Published: August 2016

This review article describes the chemistry of transition‐metal complexes containing heavier group 14 elements (Si, Ge, and Sn) as the σ‐electron‐acceptor (Z‐type) ligands and discusses the characteristics of bonds between the transition metal and Z‐type ligand. Moreover, we review the iridium hydride mediated cleavage of E–X bonds (E=Si, Ge; X=F, Cl), where the key intermediates are pentacoordinate silicon or germanium compounds bearing a dative M→E bond.
Comparative outcomes of face-to-face and virtual review meetings
Authors: Vo Nghia M. , Quiggle Gabrielle M. , Wadhwani Kishena
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACT

Background:

The present study proposes to evaluate the effects of face-to-face (FF) and virtual review (VR) sessions on peer reviewers' scores and consistency of peer review.

Methods:

Retrieved review sessions conducted between 2012 and 2014 yielded 119 and 51 discussed applications for the FF and VR groups, respectively. Changes between preliminary scores, post discussion scores and final matrix scores were analyzed. Consistency between the two meeting modalities was measured by percentage and increments of score changes.

Results:

Discussion changed the preliminary scores in 37% of applications reviewed in the FF group and 24% of applications reviewed in the VR group (no difference between groups). Applications that received a preliminary score in the 10 to 30 point-range were more positively than negatively impacted by discussion in both modalities. FF discussion led to a wider range of scoring changes (−10 points to 17 points) than VR (−7 points to 10 points), but discussion was not found to differentially improve or worsen scores between the two modalities. When comparing post-discussion and final matrix scores, 27 (23%) applications' scores changed in the FF meetings compared to 13 (25%) in the VR meetings (no difference between groups).

Conclusions:

FF and VR sessions result in (1) minimal differences in preliminary scores, (2) non-significant percentage changes in scoring, and (3) non-significant change in the percentage of magnitude of scoring. The two review methods appear to be similar in evaluating grant applications.

Highlights
Finding Gold, Forming Slavery: The Creation of a Classic Slave Society, Popayán, 1600–1700
Authors: Bryant Sherwin K.
Published: August 2016

Inscribed on the outside walls of Quito’s Cathedral is a list of the men who invaded, occupied, and ultimately renamed the Inka city of Quito for Saint Francis on August 28, 1534. Listed among these individuals are two blacks—Juan (de color negro), and Anton (negro). Juan and Anton represented the hundreds (and perhaps thousands by this date) of blacks, explorers, conquistadors, slaves, and squires who had come to the Americas during the age of conquest (1492-1550). Although the biographical records for Juan and Anton are sketchy, sources indicate that they were freemen.
Two Unknown Manuscripts Belonging to Early California
Authors: Piette Charles J. G. Maximin
Published: August 2016

In a preceding article we have tried to draw a provisional list of the diarios describing the voyages of exploration and the life of the pioneers of Upper California during the period covering the years 1769 to 1784. We should now like to introduce two new documents which have hitherto been unknown. They bring to a fitting completion the list of Crespi’s diarios, first by adding a sensational new item; and, secondly, by giving us a new transcript of the five diarios up to 1772, which is decidedly superior to the copy of Palou-Figueroa, either in manuscript or in the México and San Francisco editions. Furthermore, as a result of this discovery, we can infallibly re-assemble the complete text of Serra’s original Diario, which has been missing until today.
Valuation of Special Policies
Authors: Woodall E. A.
Published: August 2016

In dealing with the general question of the valuation of special policies, it must be borne in mind that the particular circumstances of each office as regards special schemes, &c, have to be considered when the method of valuation of any class is fixed, and that, therefore, some latitude must be allowed, and hard and fast rules and unnecessary complications and refinements avoided. In those cases where exact reserves are not obtained the approximations used in practice should be simple in application, and give a reserve which does not in the aggregate fall -short of the true reserve.
Exchange Fluctuations and the Present Financial Position with special reference to Indian Finance
Authors: Edwards J. C.
Published: August 2016

Exchange is, in effect, a system of perfected barter, not of goods but of their equivalent in currency, payments in one place being exchanged for payments in another. Since, however, in actual practice the total payments in the two places do not exactly balance, there arises the complication of exchange, which has been described as the price of monetary claims on distant creditors. The balance of indebtedness is either retained, at interest, to meet future liabilities, or remitted in coin, the choice of alternatives being determined by the rate of interest ruling, and the cost of remitting coin. Other things being equal, credits will be retained where the rate of interest is highest, but, where one or other of the currencies is in an unsatisfactory condition, a considerable element of speculation is introduced, while, in ordinary circumstances, exchange will only fluctuate between fixed limits, viz., those at which it becomes profitable to transmit coin, or bullion, in either direction. Apart from the differences between the respective currencies involved, these limits vary according to the distance between the respective countries, the cost of freight, commission, packing, and insurance against the risks incurred in the transmission, and the local rates of interest.
The Analysis of the Annuity Experience 1900–1920.
Authors: Elderton W. Palin
Published: August 2016

It is usual to begin a sermon with a text and if I were making a sermon to-night my text would be from a favourite poet who, unconsciously and unsuspectingly, I fear, described the ideal actuarial department when its total staff is three and by implication described the ideal methods of examining actuarial problems.

The first of them could things to come foresee

The next could of things present best advise

The third things past could keep in memory

So that no time nor reason could arise

But that the same could one of these comprise.

(Spenser,Faerie Queene, II, ix. 49.)
The A B C of a Friendly Society Valuation
Authors: Blake W. T. C.
Published: August 2016

The following notes are for the most part based upon the actual valuation of a registered friendly society and an attempt is made to describe the various operations involved and the points which arise for consideration, from the time the actuary (or valuer as he is commonly known in friendly society circles) is approached, to the time he signs his report and presents it to the society. I have, however, digressed occasionally from the main subject of these notes in order to express my views on certain general points which frequently arise in the valuations of friendly societies. It should be understood that these notes do not necessarily embody official opinion.

The specimen society is a typical “centralised” rural society (i.e. without branches) of about 1,000 members, their occupations being described as domestic, horticultural and agricultural.
Recent Trends in National Finance
Authors: Haycocks H. W.
Published: August 2016

In any discussion on recent trends in national finance the most important feature to note is that the State is being called upon more and more to redress the balance in the social and economic system. This tendency shows itself in the introduction of quotas, subsidies, Government-guaranteed loans to industry, health and unemployment policies, etc., and can, of course, be traced back to the nineteenth century. During the last few years, however, some of the changes have been so rapid that it is not yet possible to appraise their true value, and it seems likely that in the not too distant future private enterprise will cease to be the dominant force in the economic life of this country, whatever may be the party labels of successive Governments. Apart from forces at present operating, the coming task of adjusting the economic system to a falling or even stationary population will certainly require Government assistance on a large scale, especially in the labour market if much unemployment is to be avoided.
Analysis of Surplus with Particular Reference to a Bonus Reserve Valuation.
Authors: Overy D. D. , Palmer G. B.
Published: August 2016

The widespread practice of making bonus reserve valuations for publication or internal purposes has brought to light a number of points which do not arise when surplus is being analysed following a net premium valuation. The following notes have been prepared with a view to their elucidation and are based on a slightly different method of treatment of the problem from that usually employed. The revenue account and corresponding valuation account are brought side by side, and it is shown that in the main surplus is the difference between the corresponding items. The surplus is analysed symbolically, and finally the whole operation in symbols is shown to give a complete reconciliation. The symbols which are not defined by their context are explained in Appendix A.

A particular method of analysis has been followed but it is not claimed as the ideal; the individual may choose to vary the method, but so long as correct principles are maintained the surplus will be traced—which is the object sought.
Depreciation allowances in the valuation of reversions
Authors: Springbett T. M.
Published: August 2016

Collins in hisReversions and Life Interests(1925) sets out on p. 22 the five points to be considered by a purchaser in assessing the probable value of the fund which will be available when the reversion falls into possession on the death of the life tenant. These points are the risks of deferment, diminution, dispossession, depreciation of investments and default by the Trustees. The first three have been fully discussed in Collins's lectures and elsewhere, and the last is an inevitable risk which is best allowed for in the valuation rate of interest, being one of the reasons why a Life Office purchasing a reversion looks for a return on this investment a good deal greater than it expects from a first-class Stock Exchange security. It is not proposed to consider these four risks in detail here.
Notes on transacting new business in reversions and life interests
Authors: Benz N.
Published: August 2016

Only a small proportion of examination candidates have practical experience of reversions and life interests, and the purpose of this paper is to indicate some of the practical points which arise in transacting this class of business; the selection of appropriate bases for mortality, interest, valuation of funds and Estate Duties do not fall within the scope of this paper. Reference to strictly legal aspects are no more than incidental.

Since 1945 there has been, on the basis of new business figures, a marked revival in reversionary business defined as covering purchased reversions and life interests, and loans secured thereon. On balance-sheet values the reversionary business of British life offices in force at 31 December 1948 was rather more than £15m. There was approximately the same volume at 31 December 1943, but at 31 December 1938 there was about £2m. more in force. Over the 10-year period loans have decreased by about £3½m. to only little more than £5m., but purchases have increased by about £1½m. to more than £10m. These figures can give no more than an approximate picture of market value through the different methods of arriving at balance-sheet values, but they serve to show that reversions and life interests continue to form an important part of the assets of certain British life offices.
Note on annuity certain contracts
Authors: Hamilton-Jones J.
Published: August 2016

The contracts discussed in this note are annuities certain provided by Life Offices. A schedule for income-tax purposes dividing payments into capital and interest determines the variable net sum paid by the office from year to year to the payee under each contract; it is the effect of this arrangement on the office to which attention will be drawn.

To comply with the Assurance Companies Acts, 1909–46, and the Finance Act, 1938, section 27, the office must pay the considerations for such contracts into a fund which is separate from the life assurance and life annuity funds, and which must not relate to business effected before 1 January 1938. This fund is taxed on an interest less expenses basis (subject to certain limitations), and the full standard rate of tax is applied. However, the office is permitted to withhold tax on the interest portion of each annuity payment from the payee, and to retain this tax provided its amount is exceeded by the tax suffered on interest credited to the fund, adjusted for the relief on expenses. Profits tax will be ignored in this note; the tax position of the office as a whole has such an intimate bearing on the problem that further discussion would be outside the intended scope of the present analysis.
Some consequences of the continuity of life offices
Authors: Day J. G.
Published: August 2016

Life offices are now, in the main, large and well-established institutions, with assets which, at market values, would show a substantial margin over balance sheet values. This margin is known as the ‘inner reserve’ or ‘hidden reserve’ because details of it are rarely disclosed, in fact its very existence is seldom brought before the public gaze; this secrecy is specifically allowed by the Companies Act 1948.

The backing given by these large inner reserves and the advantages deriving from the continuity of the office are two of the most important factors in formulating life office policy, and in the choice of actuarial bases of calculation; and yet these factors are almost always taken for granted, a tribute perhaps to the length and strength of the offices' past history.
The Application of Constrained Maxima and Minima to some Actuarial Problems
Authors: Kennedy S. P. L. , Howroyd R. C.
Published: August 2016

A tool that is missing from the standard equipment of the actuarial student is the technique of maximizing, or minimizing, a function of several variables which are subject to certain constraints. The conception of an extreme value of a function, subject to constraints, is, we feel, as important as the mathematical technique of evaluating such a value in a particular instance.

We shall first deal with the technique and its mathematical development and then demonstrate some applications. It is as if we were demonstrating a new car, how it works and how to drive it. The first example is simple and is in the nature of a trial run to show how the car handles. Succeeding examples go further and we hope that the actuarial countryside into which we go will prove as interesting as the mechanical means of getting there. To many the vehicle itself will be familiar, but perhaps some of our byroads may lead to unfamiliar places or to familiar places by unfamiliar routes.
An Introduction to English Life Table No. 11.
Authors: Hayward R. E.
Published: August 2016

The Registrar-General's Decennial Supplement, England and Wales, 1951, Life Tables, was published in February of last year. Following the established custom, it includes the report of the Government Actuary, Sir George Maddex, who was asked to prepare National Life Tables showing the level of mortality at the time of the 1951 census. The new life tables are presented in Appendix IV, and it is the aim of this paper to draw attention to the features which are of interest to actuaries concerned with Industrial Life Assurance.