bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluoride Anion Complexation by a Triptycene‐Based Distiborane: Taking Advantage of a Weak but Observable C−H⋅⋅⋅F Interaction
Authors: Chen Chang‐Hong , Gabbaï François P.
Published: January 2017

Fluoride anion complexation impacts a number of areas ranging from sensing to nucleophilic fluorination chemistry. Described here is a new bidentate Lewis acid consisting of two stiborane units connected by a 1,8‐triptycenediyl backbone. This neutral derivative captures fluoride with an unprecedented affinity for a neutral, water‐compatible Lewis acid. Structural, spectroscopic and computational studies demonstrate that fluoride anion binding is assisted by the formation of a C−H⋅⋅⋅F hydrogen bond which involves a methine group of the 1,8‐triptycenediyl backbone.
OleD Loki as a Catalyst for Tertiary Amine and Hydroxamate Glycosylation
Authors: Hughes Ryan R. , Shaaban Khaled A. , Zhang Jianjun , Cao Hongnan , Phillips George N. , Thorson Jon S.
Published: January 2017

We describe the ability of an engineered glycosyltransferase (OleD Loki) to catalyze the N‐glycosylation of tertiary‐amine‐containing drugs and trichostatin hydroxamate glycosyl ester formation. As such, this study highlights the first bacterial model catalyst for tertiary‐amine N‐glycosylation and further expands the substrate scope and synthetic potential of engineered OleDs. In addition, this work could open the door to the discovery of similar capabilities among other permissive bacterial glycosyltransferases.
Efficient Synthesis of Nitrogen‐ and Sulfur‐co‐Doped Ketjenblack with a Single‐Source Precursor for Enhancing Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity
Authors: Cheng Guang‐Chun , Li Guang‐Lan , Liu Cai‐Di , Yuan Li‐Fang , Chen Wen‐Wen , Hao Ce
Published: January 2017

Promoting the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalytic activities of cost‐effective catalysts is of great significance for the development of various energy conversion and storage systems. Herein, we describe the preparation of a highly active N‐ and S‐co‐doped ketjenblack (Kb) by facile pyrolysis of a mixture of thiourea and Kb in the presence of FeCl3⋅6 H2O followed by an acid‐leaching process. This novel synthetic approach was rationally designed with the consideration that thiourea could easily introduce both N and S heteroatoms into the carbon matrix by a heat‐treatment method by releasing plentiful reactive N‐ and S‐containing gases, which could simultaneously optimize the porous structure of the resultant catalyst. Physical characterization revealed that N and S were homogeneously incorporated into the nanostructure of Kb and formed a hierarchical porous structure with a high specific surface area. The N/S‐Kb catalyst showed impressive ORR activity, with an onset potential of 0.08 V at 0.1 mA cm−2, which is 20 mV more positive than that of commercial 20 wt. % Pt/C catalyst. This was coupled with long‐term durability and superior methanol tolerance in alkaline media. The improved ORR performance can be mainly ascribed to synergistic contributions of highly efficient active sites arising from high contents of thiophene S and pyridinic N along with the high specific surface area and the favorable mass‐transport properties arising from the hierarchical porous structure. The remarkable ORR performance and facile preparation method make the N/S‐Kb catalyst a promising substitute for Pt in electrochemical energy devices.
Hydrogen Mobility and Protein–Water Interactions in Proteins in the Solid State
Authors: Tompa Kálmán , Bokor Mónika , Ágner Dorina , Iván Dávid , Kovács Dénes , Verebélyi Tamás , Tompa Péter
Published: January 2017

In this work the groundwork is laid for characterizing the mobility of hydrogen–hydrogen pairs (proton–proton radial vectors) in proteins in the solid state that contain only residual water. In this novel approach, we introduce new ways of analyzing and interpreting data: 1) by representing hydrogen mobility (HM) and melting diagram (MD) data recorded by wide‐line 1H NMR spectroscopic analysis as a function of fundamental temperature (thermal excitation energy); 2) by suggesting a novel mode of interpretation of these parameters that sheds light on details of protein–water interactions, such as the exact amount of water molecules and the distribution of barrier potentials pertaining to their rotational and surface translational mobility; 3) by relying on directly determined physical observables. We illustrate the power of this approach by studying the behavior of two proteins, the structured enzyme lysozyme and the intrinsically disordered ERD14.
The Role of a Double Molecular Anchor on the Mobility and Self‐Assembly of Thiols on Au(111): The Case of Mercaptobenzoic Acid
Authors: Rodríguez González Miriam C. , Carro Pilar , Pensa Evangelina , Vericat Carolina , Salvarezza Roberto , Hernández Creus Alberto
Published: January 2017

The dynamics of the self‐assembly process of thiol molecules on Au(111) is affected by the interplay between molecule–substrate and molecule–molecule interactions. Therefore, it is interesting to explore the effect of a second anchor to the gold surface, in addition to the S atom, on both the order and the feasibility of phase transitions in self‐assembled monolayers. To assess the role of an additional O anchor, we have compared the adsorption of two mercaptobenzoic acid isomers, 2‐mercaptobenzoic acid (2‐MBA) and 4‐mercaptobenzoic acid (4‐MBA), on Au(111). Results from scanning tunneling microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electrochemical techniques, and density functional theory calculations show that the additional O anchor in 2‐MBA hinders surface mobility, reducing domain size and impeding the molecular reorganization involved in phase transition to denser phases on the Au(111) substrates. This knowledge can help to predict the range order and molecular density of the thiol SAM depending on the chemical structure of the adsorbate.
Low Rank Parity Check Codes and their application in Power Line Communications smart grid networks
Authors: Yazbek Abdul Karim , EL Qachchach Imad , Cances Jean‐Pierre , Meghdadi Vahid
Published: January 2017

We investigate the use of Low Rank Parity Check Codes, originally designed for cryptography applications in the context of Power Line Communication. Particularly, we propose a new code design and an efficient probabilistic decoding algorithm. The main idea of decoding Low Rank Parity Check Codes is based on calculations of vector spaces over a finite field
. Low Rank Parity Check Codes can be seen as the identical of Low Density Parity check codes. We compare the performance of this code against the Reed‐Solomon Code through a Power Line Communication channel.
Vacuum swing adsorption on natural zeolites from tuffs in a prototype plant
Authors: Petracchini Francesco , Paolini Valerio , Liotta Flavia , Paciucci Lucia , Facci Enrico
Published: January 2017

A vacuum swing adsorption (VSA) prototype plant was developed and tested, based on natural zeolites from tuffs containing Chabazite. The regeneration procedure of natural zeolites was optimized, and the operative pressure resulted to be the most important parameter. The VSA prototype was fed for 3 months with a real biogas, produced by agrozootechnical byproducts in an anaerobic baffled reactor (ABR). Biogas composition from ABR was very stable and allowed to deeply investigate the performances of natural zeolites in real biogas conditions. Biogas was desulfurized and dehydrated before the VSA unit. In our experimental conditions, a biomethane average purity > 98% was achieved, with methane recovery > 95%. CO2 concentration was always lower than 0.3%, while oxygen ranged from 0.2 to 1.5%. A light desulfurization effect was also observed. CH4 concentration was < 0.1% in the VSA off‐gas. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 887–894, 2017
Quality of Life in relation to neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease: 5‐year prospective ALSOVA cohort study
Authors: Hongisto Kristiina , Hallikainen Ilona , Selander Tuomas , Törmälehto Soili , Väätäinen Saku , Martikainen Janne , Välimäki Tarja , Hartikainen Sirpa , Suhonen Jaana , Koivisto Anne M.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To examine the association between neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) with self‐ and caregiver‐rated Quality of Life (QoL) for patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) during a 5‐year follow‐up.

Methods

The ALSOVA 5‐year follow‐up study included, at baseline, 236 patients with either very mild (Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR) 0.5), or mild (CDR 1) AD, together with their caregivers from three Finnish hospital districts. QoL was evaluated using patient self‐reported, and caregiver‐rated, QoL in AD (QoL‐AD) scores. NPS were assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and AD severity was evaluated using the CDR, with cognition tested by the mini‐mental state examination. The performance of daily activities was assessed using the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study–Activities of Daily Living Inventory.

Results

Over the 5‐year follow‐up period, patient self‐reported QoL‐AD scores did not change significantly (p = 0.245), despite increases in their NPS. However, caregiver‐rated patient QoL‐AD scores declined significantly (p ≤ 0.001), as total NPI scores increased during follow‐up. No NPS at baseline, and only apathy at follow‐up, correlated significantly (p = 0.007) with patient self‐rated QoL‐AD scores. Caregiver‐rated patient QoL‐AD scores correlated significantly with most NPS, especially (p ≤ 0.001) apathy, agitation, anxiety, irritability, depression, and delusions at baseline, and delusions, hallucinations, apathy, appetite disturbances, and anxiety during follow‐up.

Conclusions

Patient rated QoL‐AD scores are an unreliable tool with which to evaluate the success of therapy for NPS. Instead, caregiver‐rated scores for patients correlated well with NPI scores, and health care professionals in the clinic should preferentially use these. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On Climacteric Symptoms and their Treatment with a New Non‐Steroidal Estrogen
Authors: Kullander Stig , Svanberg Lars
Published: January 2017

Kullander, S. and Svanberg, L. (Dept of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Lund, Malmö Allmänna Sjukhus, Malmö, Sweden). On climacteric symptoms and their treatment with a new non‐steroidal estrogen.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 13: 277–281, 1975.

This study showed that P 1496 (Sandoz) a new nonsteroidal estrogenic preparation, is very effective in the treatment of climacteric symptoms (hot flushes). When effective, the drug has a parallel stimulating effect on the vaginal mucosa and the endometrium. Prolactin levels in serum are lower after treatment with P 1496, while PBI is increased. P 1496 had some “side“‐effects—like those of other estrogenic compounds —the most troublesome of which was breakthrough bleedings. Such bleedings occurred in 8% of our patients.
The Future of Female Sterilization Technology
Authors: Speidel J. Joseph
Published: January 2017

The relative importance of research objectives to improve female sterilization technology varies between developed and less developed countries. Less developed countries are more interested in technology which can be applied outside of the hospital setting, by paramedical personnel, and with equipment that is simple to use, low‐cost, and easy to maintain. Of the currently available methods, minilaparotomy may be the method of choice in most programs in developing countries. Laparoscopy, culdoscopy, and colpotomy all have proponents, but the technical expertise and, for the endoscopic methods, the complex and expensive equipment required for these methods limits their applicability. Research is progressing on the transcervical introduction of sclerosing agents and transcervically applied tubal plugs, but these methods will require considerable refinement before they can be widely used in humans. Systemic pharmacologic methods of sterilization are also a possibility. To date no technique is available which is known to be easily reversible; research in this area is needed. It is anticipated that expanded research and further advances in female sterilization technology will be forthcoming in the near future.
Patients' Responses to IUD Insertion
Authors: Berger Gary S. , Edelman David A. , Regenie Sandra J.
Published: January 2017

The immediate and early responses to insertion of a Lippes loop A or B, Dalkon shield, or Cu‐7‐200 were evaluated for 93 nulliparous patients. In isolated cases, significant, transient changes occurred in blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rates following the IUD insertion. The mean changes in these variables from before the IUD insertion to after the IUD insertion were too small to be of clinical significance. Vasovagal reactions, which usually became manifest at least ten minutes after the insertion, occurred in 7.5% of the patients. Among patients who were followed up, 95 % experienced cramps attributable to the IUD. Cramps and bleeding occurred more frequently with the Lippes loops A or B and Dalkon shield during or immediately after insertion. With the Cu‐7‐200, cramps and bleeding occurred more frequently one hour or more after insertion. Neither the duration and amount of bleeding nor the severity of cramps was significantly different for the three types of IUDs.
Prenatal Detection of Chromosome Aberrations after Intercontinental Transport of Amniotic Fluid
Authors: Gadow Enrique C. , Paz Joaquin E. , Castilla Eduardo E. , Rothe Desider J. , Cederqvist Lars L.
Published: January 2017

Prenatal examination for chromosome anomalies was performed in nine families through a collaborative program between the Center for Medical Genetics in Buenos Aires and The New York Hospital–Cornell Medical Center in New York, using a simplified technique for cultivation of amniotic fluid cells. The indication in three out of nine cases was a balanced translocation present in one of the parents, two of a type which have not previously been reported. Two fetuses were also found to have the same balanced translocation as one of their parents. Some special conditions regarding the indications and techniques used for prenatal diagnosis influenced by local situations are pointed out.
Complications in Laparoscopy
Authors: Phillips Jordan M.
Published: January 2017

The numerous benefits and the minimal but acknowledged risks of laparoscopy are discussed. Factors related to complications include operator experience, instrument and equipment technology, types of procedures, and anesthesia.
Myomectomy in Infertile Jamaican Women
Authors: Sengupta Bijoy S. , Wynter Hugh H. , Matadial Lennox , Halfen Abraham
Published: January 2017

One hundred nineteen Jamaican women who underwent myomectomy from 1964 to 1969 were followed up for 5 to 9 years. Infertility was the most common presenting complaint. Preoperative hysterosalpingograms were performed on 61 patients and were abnormal for the majority of these patients. Surgery revealed submucous fibroids in 41 patients and pelvic inflammatory disease in 51 patients. The pregnancy rate following myomectomy was 18.5%, but successful outcomes occurred in only 9.2% of the cases. Pregnancy was unsuccessful for all patients who underwent both myomectomy and tuboplasty. Twenty‐three patients had a recurrence of myoma, and 13 of these underwent subsequent hysterectomy.
Obstetric Aspects of Adolescent Pregnancy and Delivery
Authors: Berić Berislav , Bregun Nada , Bujas Milenko
Published: January 2017

An analysis of 31 years of adolescent pregnancies and deliveries at Novi Sad Medical Facility is presented. Obstetric complications are discussed. The psychological impact of adolescent pregnancy is examined.
The Pure Gonadal Dysgenesis Syndrome
Authors: Fayez Jamil A.
Published: January 2017

Two cases of gonadal dysgenesis in phenotypic females associated with different chromosomal patterns are discussed. Both patients presented with primary amenorrhea and were characterized by tall stature and underdeveloped secondary sex characteristics and external and internal reproductive organs. The karyotype of the first patient was 46,XX with a satellite on chromosome 17. The second patient had a normal female chromosome composition (46,XX) with a past history of mumps. Laparoscopic bilateral gonadal biopsies in both patients revealed fibrous tissue without any primordial follicles. This report emphasizes the pathogenesis, clinical significance, diagnosis and management of gonadal dysgenesis.
Microinvasive Carcinoma of the Uterine Cervix
Authors: Javaheri G.
Published: January 2017

There has been remarkable improvement in the early diagnosis of cervical carcinoma in recent years. There is, however, disagreement regarding the definition and treatment of microinvasive carcinoma of the uterine cervix. This review analyzes a large number of reports representing current opinion about the definition, diagnosis and appropriate management of early cervical carcinoma.
Serum Immunoglobulin Levels in Normal, Premature and Postmature Newborns and Their Mothers
Authors: Salimonu L. S. , Ladipo O. A. , Adeniran S. O. , Osukoya B. O.
Published: January 2017

Immunoglobulin (Ig) levels (IgG, IgA, IgM and IgD) were measured in 92 paired maternal and cord sera by the modified single radial immunodiffusion method. There was a progressive increase in mean IgG levels as the gestational age increased which reached a maximum of 1771 mg/100 ml in the postmature babies. The mean IgG level of infants of 32–36 weeks' gestation was lowest (1395 mg/100 ml). The maternal IgG levels were generally higher than those of the cord sera. The mean maternal IgG level (1773 mg/100 ml) was considerably higher than the corresponding level in the cord sera of the lowest gestational age group. Such marked difference was not present in newborns who were of normal gestational ages. The mean IgA and IgM levels of the cord sera were low. There were no significant differences between the mean IgA and IgM levels of newborns in different gestational age groups, even when their mothers showed variations in mean IgA and IgM levels. There was no detectable level of IgD in the cord sera.
Correlates of Human Umbilical Cord Length
Authors: Agboola A.
Published: January 2017

In this study of the umbilical cord lengths of 602 Nigerian infants delivered at term, the mean, median and modal measurements were 57.48, 57.71 and 68.00 cm, respectively (range = 20–100 cm). There was a significant positive correlation between cord length and fetal weight (r = 0.2177, p < 0.001) and also between cord length and placental weight (r = 0.2504, p < 0.001). Other fetal and maternal variables studied did not correlate with cord length. Further investigations of the factors responsible for the growth of the umbilical vessels are needed.
Ovarian and Peripheral Venous Blood Prostaglandin F2α Levels in Pregnant and Nonpregnant Women
Authors: Walters W. A. W. , Greco S. , Vijayakumar R. , Wood C.
Published: January 2017

Prostaglandin F2α (PGFF2α) was measured by radioimmunoassay in human blood plasma collected from both ovarian veins and from a peripheral vein in eight pregnant and seven nonpregnant women. In the pregnant women, significantly higher levels of PGF2α were found in venous blood plasma taken from the ovary which contained the corpus luteum than were found in either the ovarian vein blood plasma from the opposite ovary or in the blood plasma from a peripheral vein. Thus, PGF2α levels in the venous blood plasma from the ovary without a corpus luteum were not significantly different from those found in the peripheral venous blood plasma. In seven nonpregnant women, significantly higher levels of PGF2α were found in the venous blood plasma taken from the ovary which contained a corpus luteum than were found in the blood plasma taken from a peripheral vein. The former levels did not differ significantly from those found in the venous blood plasma taken from the ovary without a corpus luteum in these nonpregnant women. Thus, in nonpregnant women a significant difference was found between PGF2α levels in the venous blood plasma from the ovary without a corpus luteum and those in peripheral venous blood plasma.
International Maternity Care Monitoring: Results of a Pretest
Authors: Bernard Roger P. , de Watteville Hubert , Kessel Elton , Ravenholt R. T. , Kendall Ellen M.
Published: January 2017

This report gives the preliminary results of a pretest cosponsored by the International Fertility Research Program and the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. It includes data on 33 116 deliveries in 20 maternity centers in Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia. The findings are organized around four themes: (a) family formation and reproductive history, (b) family health, (c) management of this delivery and (d) desired family size and family planning practices.
Dinitrochlorobenzene Reactivity of Women with Cancer of the Ovary, Cervix and Corpus Uteri
Authors: Khoo Soo Keat , Mackay Eric , Daunter Brian
Published: January 2017

General immune competence was tested by contact skin reactivity to dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) in 22 women with preinvasive and 185 with invasive cancer of the cervix, 115 with cancer of the ovary, 65 with cancer of the corpus and 50 control patients. Although DNCB reactivity was least affected when the tumor was localized (stage I), about 25% of women with cancer of the ovary and cervix and nearly 50% of women with cancer of the corpus showed impaired reactivity. A correlation between the initial reactivity and tumor behavior was found at 12 and 24 months of follow‐up. At 12 months, the response to treatment was significantly better in the normal DNCB reactor: 97% response in patients with cancer of the cervix and 76% response in those with cancer of the ovary. At 24 months, there was favorable tumor response in 79% of normal DNCB reactors compared with 47% and 50%, respectively, of those with reduced reactivity and those with anergy. Alterations in the level of DNCB reactivity were observed when patients were tested sequentially. During 24 months of follow‐up, the retention of or increase in reactivity was associated with complete or partial tumor response, whereas impaired reactivity was frequently observed in patients with nonresponsive, recurrent or progressive disease. These findings indicate the value of DNCB testing in monitoring tumor behavior.
A Colposcopic Study of the Effect of IUDs on Cervical Epithelium
Authors: Medhat Ibrahim , Boyce John , Sillman Frederick , Waxman Marion , Fruchter Rachel
Published: January 2017

A case‐control study was undertaken to investigate the effects of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) on the histology of cervical epithelium. Ninety‐one women who had used IUDs for 2‐13 years were case subjects and were compared with the same number of women who had never used any form of contraception (control subjects). Two subgroups were investigated, group A and group B. Group A consisted of 53 IUD users and 53 controls coming to family planning and gynecology clinics, and group B consisted of 38 IUD users and 38 controls from dysplasia clinics. Cervical cytology and colposcopically directed cervical biopsies were taken in all women. There was no difference between IUD users and control subjects in the proportion or the severity of dysplasia in either group A or group B. There was no evidence of an increase in the prevalence or severity of dysplasia with prolonged IUD use.
Maternal Plasma, Human Placental Lactogen, α‐Fetoprotein, Prolactin and Growth Hormone in Early Pregnancy
Authors: Harrison Robert F. , Biswas S.
Published: January 2017

Human placental lactogen (HPL), α‐fetoprotein, prolactin and growth hormones were assayed simultaneously twice weekly in 21 women from 4‐16 weeks' gestation. Mean levels were established from 15 of the women for comparison with one woman with a twin pregnancy, two who aborted and three who received progestogen supplements. There was wide interpatient variation in all hormone levels excepting HPL. The mean levels of all except growth hormone showed an upward trend. Mean growth hormone levels were higher initially but remained within a 2‐4 ng/ml range throughout.

In the twin pregnancy, only HPL and α‐fetoprotein levels were significantly raised. HPL was detected in one of the two women who aborted, whereas growth hormone was initially extremely high, falling precipitously prior to abortion in both women. Treatment with progestogen supplements did not appear to influence any of the hormones measured. This study suggests that serial estimations of HPL appear to be the most cost‐effective guide to early fetal well‐being of the four hormones measured.
Verrucous Carcinoma of the Vulva
Authors: Stehman Frederick B. , Castaldo Thomas W. , Charles Elsworth H. , Lagasse Leo D.
Published: January 2017

Three cases of verrucous carcinoma of the vulva are reported. This variant of epidermoid carcinoma can easily be misdiagnosed if correlation is not made between the clinical and histopathologic appearance. These tumors tend to invade locally and rarely metastasize. Anaplastic transformation has been reported after radiation therapy, making surgical excision the treatment of choice.
Effect of Estrogen on Fasting Serum Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Varma Thankam R.
Published: January 2017

Sixty postmenopausal women with climacteric symptoms were treated with either clonidine hydrochloride or piperazine estrone sulfate in two different dosage strengths. Neither drug had an adverse effect on serum lipid levels and there was no significant change in the serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels during treatment.
Sinusoidal Pattern of Uterine Contractions in Abruptio Placentae
Authors: Caspi B. , Lancet M. , Kessler I.
Published: January 2017

Three cases of vaginal bleeding during labor associated with high‐frequency uterine contractions (HFUC) in the third trimester of pregnancy are reported. Abruptio placentae was confirmed in all three cases. As HFUC was unrecognized as a sign of abruptio placentae, labor was allowed to continue in the first two cases and fetal demise ensued. The appearance of HFUC with vaginal bleeding in the third trimester of pregnancy should make the obstetrician highly suspicious of abruptio placentae. Labor should be terminated by cesarean section to prevent fetal death in utero.
Comparison of Laparoscopic Sterilization via Spring‐Loaded Clip and Tubal Ring
Authors: Argueta Gustavo , Henriquez Enrico , Amador Marta Nery , Gardner Stephen D.
Published: January 2017

The spring‐loaded clip and tubal ring techniques of laparoscopic female sterilization were compared for ease of performance, safety and effectiveness at the Asociación Demográfica Salvadoreña in San Salvador, where they were randomly assigned to a total of 299 patients. Rates of technical/equipment difficulties and procedural difficulties during laparoscopy were similar for both techniques. Procedure‐related surgical complications occurred in three ring patients as a result of tubal transection. Pain during the procedure was more severe for tubal ring patients. Results suggest that both techniques can be safely and effectively used for laparoscopic sterilization.
Pregnancy and Labor of Grand Multiparous Sudanese Women
Authors: Aziz Farouk A.
Published: January 2017

This study was part of an evaluation of maternity performance during the period 1975‐1979 in the three major hospitals in Khartoum, Sudan. The larger study population consisted of 8858 patients who delivered in those hospitals; 3130 of them had five or more children. The obstetric complications and the fetal outcome were investigated, and comparisons were made between groups according to parity. There was a high rate of antenatal complications, such as anemia, antepartum hemorrhage and postpartum hemorrhage, among the grand multiparous patients. The stillbirth rate and neonatal mortality were higher for grand multiparous women than for the others.
Evaluation of Threatened Abortion by Ultrasound
Authors: Bennett M.J. , Kerr‐Wilson R. H.J.
Published: January 2017

A retrospective analysis was made of 817 pregnancies that were examined ultrasonically because of the clinical diagnosis of threatened abortion. A total of 285 (34.9%) pregnancies aborted and the majority did so within seven days of ultrasonic examination. This examination predicted the presence of a noncontinuing pregnancy in each case. Very few ultrasonically diagnosed continuing pregnancies subsequently aborted. The incidence of preterm delivery in those pregnancies which continued beyond the 28th week was increased threefold. There was, however, no increased incidence of either congenital abnormalities or growth retarded infants in this group.
Concurrent Intrauterine and Ovarian Pregnancy: A Case Report
Authors: Arkutu A. A.
Published: January 2017

A case of concurrent intrauterine and advanced ovarian pregnancy is reported. The condition was discovered after spontaneous vaginal delivery of the intrauterine baby. Laparotomy was performed on the day after delivery of the first baby and only then was ovarian pregnancy diagnosed and later confirmed histologically; a macerated fetus was excised from the ovarian mass at laparotomy. The intrauterine baby was discharged alive along with the mother 12 days after the operation.
Imaging left‐ventricular mechanical activation in heart failure patients using cine DENSE MRI: Validation and implications for cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Auger Daniel A. , Bilchick Kenneth C. , Gonzalez Jorge A. , Cui Sophia X. , Holmes Jeffrey W. , Kramer Christopher M. , Salerno Michael , Epstein Frederick H.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

To image late mechanical activation and identify effective left‐ventricular (LV) pacing sites for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). There is variability in defining mechanical activation time, with some studies using the time to peak strain (TPS) and some using the time to the onset of circumferential shortening (TOS). We developed improved methods for imaging mechanical activation and evaluated them in heart failure (HF) patients undergoing CRT.

Materials and Methods

We applied active contours to cine displacement encoding with stimulated echoes (DENSE) strain images to detect TOS. Six healthy volunteers underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 1.5T, and 50 patients underwent pre‐CRT MRI (strain, scar, volumes) and echocardiography, assessment of the electrical activation time (Q‐LV) at the LV pacing site, and echocardiography assessment of LV reverse remodeling 6 months after CRT. TPS at the LV pacing site was also measured by DENSE.

Results

The latest TOS was greater in HF patients vs. healthy subjects (112 ± 28 msec vs. 61 ± 7 msec, P < 0.01). The correlation between TOS and Q‐LV was strong (r > 0.75; P < 0.001) and better than between TPS and Q‐LV (r < 0.62; P ≥ 0.006). Twenty‐three of 50 patients had the latest activating segment in a region other than the mid‐ventricular lateral wall, the most common site for the CRT LV lead. Using a multivariable model, TOS/QRS was significantly associated with LV reverse remodeling even after adjustment for overall dyssynchrony and scar (P < 0.05), whereas TPS was not (P = 0.49).

Conclusion

Late activation by cine DENSE TOS analysis is associated with improved LV reverse remodeling with CRT and deserves further study as a tool to achieve optimal LV lead placement in CRT.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;46:887–896
Technical Note: A new zeolite PET phantom to test segmentation algorithms on heterogeneous activity distributions featured with ground‐truth contours
Authors: Soffientini Chiara D. , De Bernardi Elisabetta , Casati Rosangela , Baselli Giuseppe , Zito Felicia
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Design, realization, scan, and characterization of a phantom for PET Automatic Segmentation (PET‐AS) assessment are presented. Radioactive zeolites immersed in a radioactive heterogeneous background simulate realistic wall‐less lesions with known irregular shape and known homogeneous or heterogeneous internal activity.

Method

Three different zeolite families were evaluated in terms of radioactive uptake homogeneity, necessary to define activity and contour ground truth. Heterogeneous lesions were simulated by the perfect matching of two portions of a broken zeolite, soaked in two different 18F‐FDG radioactive solutions. Heterogeneous backgrounds were obtained with tissue paper balls and sponge pieces immersed into radioactive solutions.

Results

Natural clinoptilolite proved to be the most suitable zeolite for the construction of artificial objects mimicking homogeneous and heterogeneous uptakes in 18F‐FDG PET lesions. Heterogeneous backgrounds showed a coefficient of variation equal to 269% and 443% of a uniform radioactive solution. Assembled phantom included eight lesions with volumes ranging from 1.86 to 7.24 ml and lesion to background contrasts ranging from 4.8:1 to 21.7:1.

Conclusions

A novel phantom for the evaluation of PET‐AS algorithms was developed. It is provided with both reference contours and activity ground truth, and it covers a wide range of volumes and lesion to background contrasts. The dataset is open to the community of PET‐AS developers and utilizers.
Model reduction for linear and nonlinear magneto‐quasistatic equations
Authors: Kerler‐Back Johanna , Stykel Tatjana
Published: January 2017

We consider model reduction for magneto‐quasistatic field equations in the vector potential formulation. A finite element discretization of such equations leads to large‐scale differential‐algebraic equations of special structure. For model reduction of linear systems, we employ a balanced truncation approach, whereas nonlinear systems are reduced using a proper orthogonal decomposition method combined with a discrete empirical interpolation technique. We will exploit the special block structure of the underlying problem to improve the performance of the model reduction algorithms. Furthermore, we discuss an efficient evaluation of the Jacobi matrix required in nonlinear time integration of the reduced models. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cost‐effectiveness of cytogenetic evaluation of products of conception by chorionic villus sampling in recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Petracchi Florencia , Paez Cecilia , Igarzabal Laura
Published: January 2017

Objective

To compare the cost‐effectiveness of performing chorionic villus sampling (CVS) of products of conception (POC) in the evaluation of recurrent miscarriage versus standard evidence‐based work‐up (EBW) of the couple.

Material and methods

A decision‐analytic model was performed in couples with a third miscarriage. Three strategies were considered: (1) the standard EBW of all the patients, comprising parental karyotype, uterine cavity assessment and antiphospholipid antibodies; (2) performing a CVS of POC and a standard karyotype, and if euploid, follow with EBW; and (3) performing a CVS of POC and an arrayCGH and, if normal, follow with EBW. Estimated cost and diagnostic yield of each strategy was analysed. Sensitivity analysis and threshold cost were considered.

Results

The expected cost‐effectiveness of CVS and karyotype of POC in recurrent miscarriage was: $US769.79 versus $US 1361.8 for the standard EBW of the couple. When stratified by maternal age the results remained cost‐effective for this strategy. The arrayCGH strategy has a higher diagnostic yield, but still expensive in our setting to be considered cost‐effective.

Conclusions

Chorionic villus sampling and karyotype analysis of products of conception in a third miscarriage proved a more cost‐effective strategy than standard EBW of the couple. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐density lipoproteins in high resolution: Will proteomics solve the paradox for cardiovascular risk?
Authors: Baig Ferheen , Joshi Abhishek , Mayr Manuel
Published: January 2017

While lipid abnormalities continue to account for over 60% of the population attributable risk for myocardial infarction, the well‐known inverse correlation between plasma high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and cardiovascular risk has failed to deliver clinically useful therapeutic interventions. Thus, there is an unmet need to better understand the function of different HDL particles. Targeted, high‐resolution lipoproteomics provides an innovative approach to studying the kinetics of HDL particles. In this commentary, we discuss the development of an informatics platform for increased throughput and highlight how this approach delivers the potential for novel, hybrid instrument technologies to inform clinical dyslipidemia studies.
Molecular galactose–galectin association in neuroblastoma cells: An unconventional tool for qualitative/quantitative screening
Authors: Pastorino Fabio , Ponzoni Mirco , Simone Giuseppina
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Galectin decorates the cell membrane and forms an extracellular molecular association with galactoside units. Here, galactoside probes have been used to study galectin expression in neuroblastoma cells. The hypothesis behind this investigation has been that the molecular mechanisms by which glycans modulate neural metastatic cells involve a protein–carbohydrate association, galectin–galactose.

Experimental design

Preliminary screening to validate the hypothesis has been performed with galactose moieties anchored to beads. The molecular association has been studied by FACS. In vitro experiments reveal the molecular binding preferences of the metastatic neuroblastoma cells. Ex vivo, the galactose probes discriminate healthy tissues. The unconventional assay in microfluidics used in this study displayed results analogous to the above (GI‐LI‐N cell capture efficiency overcomes IMR‐32).

Results

At the point of equilibrium of shear and binding forces, the capture yield inside the chamber was measured to 60 ± 4.4% in GI‐LI‐N versus 40 ± 2.1% in IMR‐32. Staining of the fished cells and subsequent conjugation with red beads bearing the galactose also have evidenced that microfluidics can be used to study and quantify the molecular association of galectin–galactose. Most importantly, a crucial insight for obtaining single‐cell qualitative/quantitative glycome analysis has been achieved. Finally, the specificity of the assay performed in microfluidics is demonstrated by comparing GI‐LI‐N fishing efficiency in galactose and fucose environments. The residual adhesion to fucose confirmed the existence of receptors for this glycan and that its eventual unspecific binding (i.e. due to electrostatic interactions) is insignificant compared with the molecular binding.

Conclusion

Identification and understanding of this mechanism of discrimination can be relevant for diagnostic monitoring and for producing probes tailored to interfere with galectin activities associated with the malignant phenotype. Besides, the given strategy has implications for the rational design of galectin‐specific ligands.
Lower Percentile Estimation of Accelerated Life Tests with Nonconstant Scale Parameter
Authors: Lv Shanshan , Niu Zhanwen , Wang Guodong , Qu Liang , He Zhen
Published: January 2017

Lower percentiles of product lifetime are useful for engineers to understand product failure, and avoiding costly product failure claims. This paper proposes a percentile re‐parameterization model to help reliability engineers obtain a better lower percentile estimation of accelerated life tests under Weibull distribution. A log transformation is made with the Weibull distribution to a smallest extreme value distribution. The location parameter of the smallest extreme value distribution is re‐parameterized by a particular 100pth percentile, and the scale parameter is assumed to be nonconstant. Maximum likelihood estimates of the model parameters are derived. The confidence intervals of the percentiles are constructed based on the parametric and nonparametric bootstrap method. An illustrative example and a simulation study are presented to show the appropriateness of the method. The simulation results show that the re‐parameterization model performs better compared with the traditional model in the estimation of lower percentiles, in terms of Relative Bias and Relative Root Mean Squared Error. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Religious Conservatives and Outsiders: Determinants of Cross-Racial Ties among White Christians
Authors: Yi Joseph , Graziul Christopher
Published: January 2017

This article analyzes how a congregation's theology and denominational affiliation influence the racial ties of its white members. We posit two distinct pathways. In the first, theologically conservative congregations generate more embedded social ties (measured by number of friendships) than do non-conservative congregations, and more congregation friendships increase the likelihood of cross-racial ties. In the second pathway, congregations not affiliated with historically major denominational families report higher levels of racial diversity, and high levels of congregation racial diversity increase the likelihood of cross-racial ties. Our key methodological innovation is to divide Evangelical congregations into two categories: those affiliated with the historically major families (Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian) and those not (e.g., Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist). Christian groups that join theological conservatism and outsider (non-major) status generate high levels of friendships and racial diversity in their congregations, both of which contribute to cross-racial ties among white members. Analysis of survey data from a national probability sample of white Christians (2006 Faith Matters Survey) mostly supports our hypotheses.
Plasma tetranectin as a potential clinical biomarker for epilepsy and correlation with clinical and social characteristics
Authors: Dahiya Ekta , Mehndiratta Man Mohan , Pillai Krishna
Published: January 2017

Background Tetranectin concentration has been identified as a biomarker of several types of metastatic and malignant cancers. The role of tetranectin has also be seen in some neurological disorders. We aimed to estimate the plasma tetranectin concentration in different groups of people with epilepsy (PWE) followed-up for a year. As a secondary objective, the clinical and social characteristics were also correlated with the tetranectin levels.

Methods We enrolled 90 subjects grouped as Newly-diagnosed epilepsy (NDE), Drug-effective epilepsy (DEE), and Drug-refractory epilepsy (DRE) and an age-gender matched control group (n = 30). The plasma samples were collected thrice at the six-month interval and were analysed for the tetranectin concentration using S-ELISA.

Results The mean plasma tetranectin levels at the baseline test were significantly lower for the DEE (6.294 ± 0.806) and DRE (7.572 ± 0.545) groups compared with control group (9.71 ± 0.628) but not the NDE group (8.651 ± 0.859 vs. 9.71 ± 0.628; p > 0.05). On a year of follow-up, the tetranectin levels for the NDE group significantly decreased (p < 0.001) matching with that of the DEE and DRE group. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that gender (p = 0.035) in the DRE group and seizure type (p = 0.040) and diet (p = 0.046) for the NDE group were significantly correlated.

Conclusion The plasma tetranectin level in PWE significantly decreased as the disease progressed irrespective of the stage of epilepsy. Thus, tetranectin could be considered as a potential progressive biomarker for epilepsy. The study outcome suggests further investigation for the possible link of tetranectin levels with clinical and social parameters.
Micromorphology of late Pleistocene and Holocene sediments and a new interpretation of the Holocene chronology at Anderson Pond, Tennessee, USA
Authors: Driese Steven G. , Horn Sally P. , Ballard Joanne P. , Boehm Mathew S. , Li Zhenghua
Published: January 2017

Thin-section (micromorphological) analysis of samples from the upper 1.5 m of a core obtained in 2007 from Anderson Pond, Tennessee, reveals a coherent but discontinuous record of late Pleistocene and Holocene climate change that supports some interpretations from previous pollen and charcoal analyses but indicates a revised Holocene chronology for this classic pollen site. Legacy sediments recording anthropogenic disturbance compose the upper 65 cm of the core (<160 cal yr BP) and are characterized by mixed, darker-colored, and coarser-grained deposits containing reworked soil aggregates, which sharply overlie finer-grained and lighter-colored, rooted middle Holocene sediments interpreted as a paleosol. These mid-Holocene sediments (95–65 cm; 7100–5600 cal yr BP) record extensive warm-dry subaerial soil conditions during the middle Holocene thermal maximum, manifested by illuviated clay lining root pores, and also contain abundant charcoal. Late Pleistocene sediments (150–95 cm), dark-colored and organic-rich, record open-water conditions and include siliceous aggregate grains at 143–116 cm (14,300–13,900 cal yr BP), recording intense fires. Thin sections are not commonly used in studies of paleoclimate from Quaternary lacustrine sediments, but we advocate for their inclusion in multianalytical approaches because they enhance resolution of depositional and pedogenic processes.
THE QUOTIENT SET OF -GENERALISED FIBONACCI NUMBERS IS DENSE IN
Authors: SANNA CARLO
Published: January 2017

The quotient set of$A\subseteq \mathbb{N}$is defined as$R(A):=\{a/b:a,b\in A,b\neq 0\}$. Using algebraic number theory in$\mathbb{Q}(\sqrt{5})$, Garcia and Luca [‘Quotients of Fibonacci numbers’,Amer. Math. Monthly, to appear] proved that the quotient set of Fibonacci numbers is dense in the$p$-adic numbers$\mathbb{Q}_{p}$for all prime numbers$p$. For any integer$k\geq 2$, let$(F_{n}^{(k)})_{n\geq -(k-2)}$be the sequence of$k$-generalised Fibonacci numbers, defined by the initial values$0,0,\ldots ,0,1$($k$ terms) and such that each successive term is the sum of the$k$preceding terms. We use$p$-adic analysis to generalise the result of Garcia and Luca, by proving that the quotient set of$k$-generalised Fibonacci numbers is dense in$\mathbb{Q}_{p}$for any integer$k\geq 2$and any prime number $p$.
Cholecalciferol v. ergocalciferol for 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) repletion in chronic kidney disease: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Wetmore James B. , Kimber Cassandra , Mahnken Jonathan D. , Stubbs Jason R.
Published: January 2017

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) demonstrate complex mineral metabolism derangements and a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency. However, the optimal method of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) repletion is unknown, and trials analysing the comparative efficacy of cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol in this population are lacking. We conducted a randomised clinical trial of cholecalciferol 1250μg (50 000 IU) weekly v. ergocalciferol 1250μg (50 000 IU) weekly for 12 weeks in forty-four non-dialysis-dependent patients with stage 3–5 CKD. The primary outcome was change in total 25(OH)D from baseline to week 12 (immediately after therapy). Secondary analyses included the change in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D), parathyroid hormone (PTH), D2 and D3 sub-fractions of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D and total 25(OH)D from baseline to week 18 (6 weeks after therapy). Cholecalciferol therapy yielded a greater change in total 25(OH)D (45·0 (sd 16·5) ng/ml) v. ergocalciferol (30·7 (sd 15·3) ng/ml) from baseline to week 12 (P<0·01); this observation partially resulted from a substantial reduction in the 25(OH)D3 sub-fraction with ergocalciferol. However, following cessation of therapy, no statistical difference was observed for total 25(OH)D change from baseline to week 18 between cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol groups (22·4 (sd 12·7) v. 17·6 (sd 8·9) ng/ml, respectively; P=0·17). We observed no significant difference between these therapies with regard to changes in serum PTH or 1,25(OH)2D. Therapy with cholecalciferol, compared with ergocalciferol, is more effective at raising serum 25(OH)D in non-dialysis-dependent CKD patients while active therapy is ongoing. However, levels of 25(OH)D declined substantially in both arms following cessation of therapy, suggesting the need for maintenance therapy to sustain levels.