bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Relationship Between Ischemia‐Modified Albumin Levels and Thyroid Hormone Levels
Authors: Oncel Mufide , Kıyıcı Aysel , Onen Serife
Published: June 2014

Background

A novel ischemia marker named ischemia modified albumin was previously considered as an early marker of myocardial ischemia, however due to recent reports, its contribution was demonstrated in different pathologies such as oxidative stress, diabetes, stroke and cancer. We aimed to investigate the relation between oxidative stress and thyroid dysfunctions determining IMA levels since IMA is closely related with increased oxidative stress.

Methods

A total of 88 individuals were participated in this study: 34 cases in hypothyroid, 27 cases in hyperthyroid and 27 cases in euthyroid group. Ischemia‐modified albumin levels were measured by albumin cobalt binding test and thyroid hormone levels were determined with electrochemiluminescent method.

Results

Ischemia modified albumin levels were significantly decreased in hypothyroid group compared to hyperthyroid and euthyroid groups (p < 0.001). In hyperthyroid individuals ischemia modified albumin levels were higher compared to euthyroid ones (p < 0.001). Ischemia modified albumin was negatively correlated with TSH levels (r = −0.473, p < 0.001), and positively correlated with FT4 and FT3 levels (r = 0.496, p < 0.001 and r = 0.275, p = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion

We suggest that albumin adjusted IMA levels are significantly lower in hypothyroid group than hyperthyroid and euthyroid groups.
An open‐label study to estimate the effect of steady‐state erythromycin on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of a single dose of rivaroxaban in subjects with renal impairment and normal renal function
Authors: Moore Kenneth T. , Vaidyanathan Seema , Natarajan Jaya , Ariyawansa Jay , Haskell Lloyd , Turner Kenneth C.
Published: June 2014

Two previously conducted rivaroxaban studies showed that, separately, renal impairment (RI) and concomitant administration of erythromycin (P‐glycoprotein and moderate cytochrome P450 3A4 [CYP3A4] inhibitor) can result in increases in rivaroxaban exposure. However, these studies did not assess the potential for combined drug–drug–disease interactions, which—in theory—could lead to additive or synergistic increases in exposure. This study investigated rivaroxaban pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics when co‐administered with steady‐state (SS) erythromycin in subjects with either mild or moderate RI. Similar to previous studies, rivaroxaban administered alone in RI subjects, or when co‐administered with SS erythromycin in normal renal function (NRF) subjects, increased rivaroxaban exposure. When combined, the co‐administration of rivaroxaban 10 mg with SS erythromycin in subjects with mild or moderate RI produced mean increases in rivaroxaban AUC∞ and Cmax of approximately 76% and 56%, and 99% and 64%, respectively, relative to NRF subjects, with PD changes displaying a similar trend. No serious adverse events occurred and no persistent adverse events were reported at the end of study. Although these increases were slightly more than additive, rivaroxaban should not be used in patients with RI receiving concomitant combined P‐glycoprotein and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.
Pavlovian discriminative stimulus effects of methamphetamine in male Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Levi Bolin B. , Singleton Destiny L. , Akins Chana K.
Published: June 2014

Pavlovian drug discrimination (DD) procedures demonstrate that interoceptive drug stimuli may come to control behavior by informing the status of conditional relationships between stimuli and outcomes. This technique may provide insight into processes that contribute to drug‐seeking, relapse, and other maladaptive behaviors associated with drug abuse. The purpose of the current research was to establish a model of Pavlovian DD in male Japanese quail. A Pavlovian conditioning procedure was used such that 3.0 mg/kg methamphetamine served as a feature positive stimulus for brief periods of visual access to a female quail and approach behavior was measured. After acquisition training, generalization tests were conducted with cocaine, nicotine, and haloperidol under extinction conditions. SCH 23390 was used to investigate the involvement of the dopamine D1 receptor subtype in the methamphetamine discriminative stimulus. Results showed that cocaine fully substituted for methamphetamine but nicotine only partially substituted for methamphetamine in quail. Haloperidol dose‐dependently decreased approach behavior. Pretreatment with SCH 23390 modestly attenuated the methamphetamine discrimination suggesting that the D1 receptor subtype may be involved in the discriminative stimulus effects of methamphetamine. The findings are discussed in relation to drug abuse and associated negative health consequences.
Biomineralization in newly settled recruits of the scleractinian coral Pocillopora damicornis
Authors: Gilis Melany , Meibom Anders , Domart‐Coulon Isabelle , Grauby Olivier , Stolarski Jarosław , Baronnet Alain
Published: June 2014

Calcium carbonate biomineralization of scleractinian coral recruits is fundamental to the construction of reefs and their survival under stress from global and local environmental change. Establishing a baseline for how normal, healthy coral recruits initiate skeletal formation is, therefore, warranted. Here, we present a thorough, multiscale, microscopic and spectroscopic investigation of skeletal elements deposited by Pocillopora damicornis recruits, from 12 h to 22 days after settlement in aquarium on a flat substrate. Six growth stages are defined, primarily based on appearance and morphology of successively deposited skeletal structures, with the following average formation time‐scales: A (<24 h), B (24–36 h), C (36–48 h), D (48–72 h), E (72–96 h), and F (>10 days). Raman and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy indicate the presence of calcite among the earliest components of the basal plate, which consist of micrometer‐sized, rod‐shaped crystals with rhomboidal habit. All later CaCO3 skeletal structures are composed exclusively of aragonite. High‐resolution scanning electron microscopy reveals that, externally, all CaCO3 deposits consist of <100 nm granular units. Fusiform, dumbbell‐like, and semispherulitic structures, 25–35 µm in longest dimension, occur only during the earliest stages (Stages A–C), with morphologies similar to structures formed abiotically or induced by organics in in vitro carbonate crystallization experiments. All other skeletal structures of the basal plate are composed of vertically extending lamellar bundles of granules. From Stage D, straight fibrils, 40–45 nm in width and presumably of organic composition, form bridges between these aragonitic bundles emerging from the growing front of fusing skeletal structures. Our results show a clear evolution in the coral polyp biomineralization process as the carbonate structures develop toward those characterizing the adult skeleton. J. Morphol. 275:1349–1365, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neural approach for temperature‐dependent modeling of GaN HEMTs
Authors: Marinković Zlatica , Crupi Giovanni , Caddemi Alina , Avolio Gustavo , Raffo Antonio , Marković Vera , Vannini Giorgio , Schreurs Dominique M. M.‐P.
Published: June 2014

Gallium nitride high electron‐mobility transistors have gained much interest for high‐power and high‐temperature applications at high frequencies. Therefore, there is a need to have the dependence on the temperature included in their models. To meet this challenge, the present study presents a neural approach for extracting a multi‐bias model of a gallium nitride high electron‐mobility transistors including the dependence on the ambient temperature. Accuracy of the developed model is verified by comparing modeling results with measurements. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TLC‐SERS of mauve, the first synthetic dye
Authors: Cañamares M. V. , Reagan D. A. , Lombardi J. R. , Leona M.
Published: June 2014

Mauve was the first synthetic organic dyestuff to be manufactured industrially. It was synthesized in 1856 by William H. Perkin. It is composed by different molecules named mauveine A, B, B2 and C. In this study, the dye was synthesized, and its individual components were analyzed by ordinary Raman spectroscopy (both dispersive and Fourier‐transform‐), and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy, after separation by thin‐layer chromatography. Only surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) gave rise to satisfactory Raman spectra of the dye. Five different fractions were separated on the thin layer chromatography plate, and Raman and SERS measurements were carried out directly on each separated spot on the plate. As in the analysis of the raw product of the synthesis, only SERS gave high quality Raman spectra for the eluted spots. The assignment of the normal modes of mauveine was aided by performing density functional theory calculations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Patterns of recurrence following selective intraoperative radiofrequency ablation as an adjunct to hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Eltawil Karim M. , Boame Nana , Mimeault Richard , Shabana Wael , Balaa Fady K. , Jonker Derek J. , Asmis Tim R. , Martel Guillaume
Published: June 2014

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this study was to analyze the patterns of recurrence following intraoperative radiofrequency ablation (RFA) combined with hepatic resection for patients with colorectal liver metastases (CLM).

Methods

Patients undergoing liver resection (with or without RFA) for CLM were examined. Rates and patterns of disease recurrence, as well as overall survival were assessed using Kaplan–Meier and Cox analyses.

Results

A total of 174 patients underwent liver resection for CLM (150 without and 24 with intraoperative RFA). RFA was used to treat 41 tumors (median 1.6 cm). The 3‐year overall survival was 65.5% and 61.4% (adjusted HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.55–1.88). Median recurrence‐free survival was 7.4 versus 12.7 months with RFA versus non‐RFA, respectively (adjusted HR 1.51, 95% CI 0.94–4.42). On multivariate analysis, neither survival nor recurrence‐free survival was significantly associated with RFA. In total, there were two RFA ablation zone local failures. An ablation site recurrence was the sole site in one patient (4.2%).

Conclusion

RFA was used as an adjunct to resection in patients with greater disease burden. Despite this, RFA was not significantly associated with a higher risk of local failure and was not associated with worse survival, when compared with liver resection alone. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 110:734–738. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
5‐O‐Caffeoylshikimic acid from Solanum somalense leaves: Advantage of centrifugal partition chromatography over conventional column chromatography
Authors: Chideh Saïda , Pilard Serge , Attoumbré Jacques , Saguez Robert , Hassan‐Abdallah Alshaimaa , Cailleu Dominique , Wadouachi Anne , Baltora‐Rosset Sylvie
Published: June 2014

Solanum somalense leaves, used in Djibouti for their medicinal properties, were extracted by MeOH. Because of the high polyphenol and flavonoid contents of the extract, respectively, determined at 80.80 ± 2.13 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight and 24.4 ± 1.01 mg quercetin equivalent/g dry weight, the isolation and purification of the main polyphenols were carried out by silica gel column chromatography and centrifugal partition chromatography. Column chromatography led to 11 enriched fractions requiring further purification, while centrifugal partition chromatography allowed the easy recovery of the main compound of the extract. In a solvent system composed of CHCl3/MeOH/H2O (9.5:10:5), 21.8 mg of this compound at 97% purity was obtained leading to a yield of 2.63%. Its structure was established as 5‐O‐caffeoylshikimic acid by mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. This work shows that S. somalense leaves contain very high level of 5‐O‐caffeoylshikimic acid (0.74% dry weight), making it a potential source of production of this secondary metabolite that is not commonly found in nature but could be partly responsible of the medicinal properties of S. somalense leaves.
Synthesis of Functionalized Poly(ester carbonate) with Laminin‐Derived Peptide for Promoting Neurite Outgrowth of PC12 cells
Authors: Xing Dongming , Ma Lie , Gao Changyou
Published: June 2014

Maleimide‐functionalized poly(ester carbonate)s are synthesized by ring‐opening copolymerization of furan–maleimide functionalized trimethylene carbonate (FMTMC) with L‐lactide and a subsequent retro Diels‐Alder reaction. The maleimide groups on poly(ester carbonate)s are amenable to Michael addition with thiol‐containing molecules such as 3‐mercapto‐1‐propanol, 2‐aminoethanethiol hydrochloride, and mercaptoacetic acid under mild conditions, enabling the formation of biodegradable materials with various functional groups (e.g., hydroxyl, amine, and carboxyl). In particular, the maleimide‐functionalized poly(ester carbonate) is clicked with a laminin‐derived peptide CQAASIKVAV. In vitro culture of PC12 cells shows that the maleimide‐functionalized polymers, especially the CQAASIKVAV‐grafted one, could support cell proliferation and neurite outgrowth. The maleimide‐functionalized poly(ester carbonate)s provide a versatile platform for diverse functionalization and have comprehensive potential in biomedical engineering.
Simultaneous state‐time approximation of the chemical master equation using tensor product formats
Authors: Dolgov Sergey , Khoromskij Boris
Published: June 2014

We apply the novel tensor product formats (tensor train, quantized TT [QTT], and QTT‐Tucker) to the solution of d‐dimensional chemical master equations for gene regulating networks (signaling cascades, toggle switches, and phage‐ λ). For some important cases, for example, signaling cascade models, we prove analytical tensor product representations of the system operator. The quantized tensor representations (QTT, QTT‐Tucker) are employed in both state space and time, and the global state‐time (d + 1)‐dimensional system is solved in the tensor product form by the alternating minimal energy iteration, the ALS‐type algorithm. This approach leads to the logarithmic dependence of the computational complexity on the volume of the state space. We investigate the proposed technique numerically and compare it with the direct chemical master equation solution and some previously known approximate schemes, where possible. We observe that the newer tensor methods demonstrate a good potential in simulation of relevant biological systems. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solid‐state drawing of β‐nucleated polypropylene: Effect of additives on drawability and mechanical properties
Authors: Luijsterburg Benny , Jobse Peter , Hermida Merino Daniel , Peijs Ton , Goossens Han
Published: June 2014

Isotactic polypropylene (i‐PP) can crystallize in different crystal modifications. In this article, the effect of sepiolite (one‐dimensional) and carbon black (three‐dimensional) fillers on the solid‐state drawability of i‐PP is discussed. The cross‐hatched structure of thermodynamically most stable α‐crystal phase in i‐PP does not allow for perfect chain alignment during solid‐state drawing. The β‐phase i‐PP, obtained by addition of specific nucleating agents, crystallizes in a non‐cross‐hatched spherulitic structure and allows more easy drawing. Depending on the filler type, β–α transformation takes place at different draw ratios, as was observed by in situ wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction measurements. It was observed that β‐nucleated i‐PP has a lower yield stress and can be drawn further than i‐PP crystallized in the α‐crystal phase. If added in the right amount, both carbon black and sepiolite have a reinforcing effect on PP tapes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 1071–1082
Informing women with breast cancer about endocrine therapy: effects on knowledge and adherence
Authors: Heisig Sarah R. , Shedden‐Mora Meike C. , von Blanckenburg Pia , Schuricht Franziska , Rief Winfried , Albert Ute‐Susann , Nestoriuc Yvonne
Published: June 2014

Objective

Adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy in women with breast cancer is low, and patients are not informed sufficiently. This study analyzes the effects of a structured treatment information on patients' satisfaction, knowledge, and adherence.

Methods

An interventional single cohort study of postoperative women with estrogen‐receptor‐positive breast cancer was conducted to study the effects of enhanced information about endocrine therapy given additionally to clinical routine information. Knowledge and satisfaction with additional information given 1–3 weeks after surgery were assessed before and after informing patients; adherence and knowledge were measured 3 months after start of treatment.

Results

A total of 137 patients were analyzed before and after provision of enhanced treatment information as well as 3 months after start of endocrine therapy. Enhanced information increased satisfaction with information and knowledge. The percentage of patients who knew their estrogen receptor status increased from 50% to 93%. At 3 months follow‐up, 60% still had correct knowledge. Patients who learned their receptor status were older, and those who forgot had lower cognitive abilities and lower educational level. Patients with higher satisfaction, better learning, and comprehension directly after enhanced information showed better adherence at 3 months follow‐up.

Conclusion

Patients, especially older ones, can benefit from enhanced treatment information given additionally to routine care. Enhanced information about mode of action and potential side effects of endocrine therapy when included into clinical routine might foster patient autonomy and prevent early disruptions in adherence. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2013 President's plenary international psycho‐oncology society: embracing the IPOS standards as a means of enhancing comprehensive cancer care
Authors: Bultz B.D. , Cummings G.G. , Grassi L. , Travado L. , Hoekstra‐Weebers J. , Watson M.
Published: June 2014

Background

The second President's Plenary at the 2013 International Psycho‐oncology Society's World Congress in Rotterdam, the Netherlands aimed to progress and, where needed, initiate changes to achieve comprehensive cancer care. Recent initiatives have been driven by the need to see psychosocial care as an integrated part of holistic multidisciplinary quality cancer care. The President's Plenary session covered the need for the following:

An internationally agreed standard of quality cancer care, which includes psychosocial care for patients and their families and caregivers.

An endorsement to assess distress as the 6th vital sign.

Psycho‐oncology professionals to integrate into a federation promoting better national and international outcomes.

Conclusion

This overview highlights progress in terms of enhanced communication between and within different professionals groups supporting the implementation of a model of comprehensive patient care that is inclusive of psychosocial support and screening for distress. Tasks and challenges for the future are set out but the primary message is of the importance of collaboration in order to achieve recognition that psychosocial care is integrated into comprehensive cancer care; in this way, patient, family and carer needs can be more appropriately met. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of post‐translational modifications in acute and chronic cardiovascular disease
Authors: Smith Lauren E. , White Melanie Y.
Published: June 2014

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) in one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide, accounting for both primary diseases of the heart and vasculature and arising as a co‐morbidity with numerous pathologies, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). There has been significant emphasis on the role of the genome in CVD, aiding in the definition of ‘at‐risk’ patients. The extent of disease penetrance however, can be influenced by environmental factors that are not detectable by investigating the genome alone. By targeting the transcriptome in response to CVD, the interplay between genome and environment is more apparent, however this implies the level of protein expression without reference to proteolytic turnover, or potentially more importantly, without defining the role of PTMs in the development of disease. Here, we discuss the role of both brief and irreversible PTMs in the setting of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Key proteins involved in calcium regulation have been observed as differentially modified by phosphorylation/O‐GlcNAcylation or phosphorylation/redox modifications, with the level of interplay dependent on the physiological or pathophysiological state. The ability to modify crucial sites to produce the desired functional output is modulated by the presence of other PTMs as exemplified in the T2DM heart, where hyperglycemia results in aberrant O‐GlcNAcylation and advanced glycation end products. By using the signalling events predicted to be critical to post‐conditioning, an intervention with great promise for the cardioprotection of the ischemia/reperfusion injured heart, as an example, we discuss the level of PTMs and their interplay. The inability of post‐conditioning to protect the diabetic heart may be regulated by aberrant PTMs influencing those sites necessary for protection.
Resource relatedness and the mode of entry into new businesses: Internal resource accumulation vs. access by collaborative arrangement
Authors: Speckbacher Gerhard , Neumann Kerstin , Hoffmann Werner H.
Published: June 2014

When firms seek to enter a new business segment, they have to decide how to best gain access to the required resources. This paper analyzes how resource relatedness influences a firm's decision between internal development and collaborative arrangement as modes of entry. We distinguish between a firm's capacity to transfer its established resources to the new segment (resource transferability) and the integration and synergistic combination of current firm resources with target segment resources in day‐to‐day operations (resource complementarity). Resource transferability makes entry by internal development more likely, but this effect depends on segment characteristics. Synergies from complementary resources can be exploited more easily within firm boundaries than across an alliance interface. However, certain partner characteristics can substitute in part for belonging to the same firm. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tracing the Fate of Limbal Epithelial Progenitor Cells in the Murine Cornea
Authors: Di Girolamo N. , Bobba S. , Raviraj V. , Delic N. C. , Slapetova I. , Nicovich P. R. , Halliday G. M. , Wakefield D. , Whan R. , Lyons J. G.
Published: June 2014

Stem cell (SC) division, deployment, and differentiation are processes that contribute to corneal epithelial renewal. Until now studying the destiny of these cells in a living mammal has not been possible. However, the advent of inducible multicolor genetic tagging and powerful imaging technologies has rendered this achievable in the translucent and readily accessible murine cornea. K14CreERT2-Confetti mice that harbor two copies of the Brainbow 2.1 cassette, yielding up to 10 colors from the stochastic recombination of fluorescent proteins, were used to monitor K-14+ progenitor cell dynamics within the corneal epithelium in live animals. Multicolored columns of cells emerged from the basal limbal epithelium as they expanded and migrated linearly at a rate of 10.8 µm/day toward the central cornea. Moreover, the permanent expression of fluorophores, passed on from progenitor to progeny, assisted in discriminating individual clones as spectrally distinct streaks containing more than 1,000 cells within the illuminated area. The centripetal clonal expansion is suggestive that a single progenitor cell is responsible for maintaining a narrow corridor of corneal epithelial cells. Our data are in agreement with the limbus as the repository for SC as opposed to SC being distributed throughout the central cornea. This is the first report describing stem/progenitor cell fate determination in the murine cornea using multicolor genetic tracing. This model represents a powerful new resource to monitor SC kinetics and fate choice under homeostatic conditions, and may assist in assessing clonal evolution during corneal development, aging, wound-healing, disease, and following transplantation. Stem Cells  2015;33:157–169
Mesenchymal TGF-βSignaling Orchestrates Dental Epithelial Stem Cell Homeostasis Through Wnt Signaling
Authors: Yang Guan , Zhou Jian , Teng Yan , Xie Jing , Lin Jingting , Guo Xizhi , Gao Yuanrong , He Miao , Yang Xiao , Wang Songlin
Published: June 2014

In mouse, continuous growth of the postnatal incisor is coordinated by two populations of multipotent progenitor cells, the dental papilla mesenchymal cells and dental epithelial stem cells, residing at the proximal end of the incisor, yet the molecular mechanism underlying the cooperation between mesenchymal and epithelial cells is largely unknown. Here, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) type II receptor (Tgfbr2) was specifically deleted within the postnatal dental papilla mesenchyme. The Tgfbr2-deficient mice displayed malformed incisors with wavy mineralized structures at the labial side as a result of increased differentiation of dental epithelial stem cells. We found that mesenchymal Tgfbr2 disruption led to upregulated expression of Wnt5a and downregulated expression of Fgf3/10 in the mesenchyme, both of which synergistically enhanced Lrp5/6-β-catenin signaling in the cervical loop epithelium. In accord with these findings, mesenchyme-specific depletion of the Wnt transporter gene Wls abolished the aberrant mineralized structures caused by Tgfbr2 deletion. Thus, mesenchymal TGF-β signaling provides a unifying mechanism for the homeostasis of dental epithelial stem cells via a Wnt signaling-mediated mesenchymal-epithelial cell interaction. Stem Cells  2014;32:2939–2948
Innovative energy‐efficiency policies: an international review
Authors: Brown Marilyn
Published: June 2014

Policies to improve end‐use energy efficiency have invoked great interest over the past several decades because the reduction of energy waste is often the fastest, cheapest, and cleanest energy resource. Most energy‐efficiency (EE) programs and policies to date have been implemented in industrialized nations. This article reviews some of the more innovative efforts, and also describes the EE policies being launched in today's emerging economies, emphasizing the wide range of energy markets, resources, and infrastructures. The focus is on information, financing, and regulatory policies that target efficiency improvements in the buildings and industrial sectors. The review summarizes the array of market failures and barriers, examines theory‐based policy design principles, and uses metrics such as levelized costs and policy supply curve to evaluate policy options. One conclusion from this international review is that policies need to be periodically updated to track technology advances and evolving market conditions. In addition, policymakers need to develop a comprehensive compliance regime, since noncompliance issues not only result in a failure to meet policy goals, but also can produce a loss of confidence in the reliability of EE programs. This article describes many creative and innovative ways that policy regimes are being designed, implemented, and enforced, such that failures of the past can be avoided and successes can be replicated and expanded.WIREs Energy Environ2015, 4:1–25. doi: 10.1002/wene.125

This article is categorized under:

Energy Policy and Planning > Economics and Policy
Trends toward 100% renewable electricity supply in Germany and Europe: a paradigm shift in energy policies
Authors: Hohmeyer Olav H. , Bohm Sönke
Published: June 2014

In industrialized countries such as Germany, electricity production contributes 30–40% of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of the country. Confronted with GHG emission reductions targets of 80–95% by 2050 and with some GHG emitting sectors confronted with great difficulties to reach such targets, such as agriculture, the power sector will need to reduce its GHG emissions virtually to zero. As nuclear energy involves very substantial accident risks and the unsolved problem of safe long‐term deposit of nuclear waste and as carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) has rather limited safe storage potentials at least in Europe, the question arises, whether it will be possible to supply 100% of all necessary electricity from renewable energy sources? We show that a fast expanding volume of analyses underlines the feasibility and reliability of 100% renewable electricity supply systems. This fast mounting evidence appears to mark the beginning of a paradigm shift in energy politics, as highly regarded national and international advisory bodies such as the IPCC or the German Council of Environmental Advisors start to adopt this perspective. The example of the highly publicized study of the German Council of Environmental Advisors shows how a 100% renewable electricity system for Germany, Europe, and North Africa could look in 2050 and how the transition toward such a system could be achieved. This study, conducted with major input from the authors, is used to show the major aspects of a 100% renewable electricity supply system, such as the security of supply in every hour of the year, the compensation of intermittent sources such as wind and solar PV energy by other renewables and expanded storage, and the necessary extension of national and international grid infrastructures. WIREs Energy Environ 2015, 4:74–97. doi: 10.1002/wene.128

This article is categorized under:

Energy and Development > Economics and Policy
Status of solar cooling in the World: markets and available products
Authors: Mugnier Daniel , Jakob Uli
Published: June 2014

Solar thermal cooling technology is nowadays facing a very exciting challenge. Air conditioning is a constant growing energy segment, especially in sunny and emerging countries. The worldwide trend for development of Renewables must cover this critical cooling application and solar thermal energy presents a natural and strong solution to address it. However, even if reliable technologically advanced products are presently available, the solar cooling sector needs to leap from a pre‐industrial and demonstration status into a competitive mass market. The solar cooling market is made for the time being of solar cooling kits, some custom made solar desiccant evaporative cooling systems and sorption systems. WIREs Energy Environ 2015, 4:229–234. doi: 10.1002/wene.132

This article is categorized under:

Solar Heating and Cooling > Systems and Infrastructure
Two 1D Ladderlike Heterometallic Zinc(II) Coordination Polymers: Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Fluorescence Properties
Authors: Zheng Yan‐Feng , Sun Ya‐Qiu , Liu Xiao‐Xu , Xu Yan‐Yan , Gao Dong‐Zhao , Zhang Guo‐Ying
Published: June 2014

Two coordination polymers [Zn2(ipt)2(CuL)2(H2O)] (1) and [Zn2(ipt)2(NiL)2(H2O)] (2) (ML, H2L = 2,3‐dioxo‐5,6,14,15‐dibenzo‐1,4,8,12‐tetraazacyclo‐pentadeca‐7,13‐dien; H2ipt = isophthalic acid) were synthesized by solvothermal methods and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Complexes 1 and 2 exhibit ladderlike chains, consisting of Zn4Cu4 and Zn4Ni4 units, respectively, which are connected via oxamide and isophthalate. These chains are further interlinked by hydrogen bonds resulting in a 2D supramolecular architecture. The fluorescence properties of compounds 1 and 2 are also discussed.
An Observational Cohort Study of the Adoption of Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing for the Treatment of Pediatric Femur Fractures in Kumasi, Ghana
Authors: Kaiser Scott P. , Holland Tai , Baidoo Paa Kwesi , Coughlin Richard C. , Konadu Peter , Awariyah Dominic , Kumah‐Ametepey Raphael A.
Published: June 2014

Background

In high‐ and middle‐income countries, elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) is the commonest treatment of femur fractures in children 5–11 years of age. At Komfo Anokye Teaching hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, Ghana, prior to this study all pediatric femur fractures were treated with skin traction to union. This study was designed to report the early results and costs of the adoption of ESIN at KATH to provide data to other low‐ and middle‐income sites considering adoption of this surgical technique.

Methods

An observational cohort study that included 84 pediatric patients ages 3–14 years presenting with closed femur fractures and treated with either skin traction or ESIN. Multivariate logistic regression was used to compare the rate of treatment success between treatment groups.

Results

Treatment success (coronal and sagittal angulation less than 10 ° and shortening less than 15 mm at osseous union) was achieved in 92 % of the ESIN group versus 67 % of the skin traction group (odds ratio for ESIN group 9.28 (1.6–54.7); p = 0.0138). Average length of stay was significantly lower in the ESIN group (p = 0.001), but charges to patients were higher in the ESIN group (p < 0.001) because of the high cost of implants.

Conclusions

The initial experience of operative treatment of femoral shaft fractures in children using ESIN was positive, with improved rates of treatment success and no surgical complications. Because of the high cost of implants, direct costs of treatment remained higher with ESIN despite reductions in length of hospital stay.
Changing Trends in Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery over the Decade: Is Same‐day Discharge Feasible in the United Kingdom?
Authors: Rajeev Parameswaran , Sutaria Rupesh , Ezzat Tarek , Mihai Radu , Sadler Gregory P.
Published: June 2014

Background

A recent British Association of Endocrine and Thyroid Surgeons consensus document suggested that day‐case thyroidectomy is feasible in a small proportion of patients but has to be balanced against risks. Currently, there is no large reported series of same‐day discharge in thyroid and parathyroid surgery from the UK. The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes of day‐case thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of patients who underwent thyroid or parathyroid surgery between January 2000 and December 2011 at Oxford University Hospitals. The end points analysed were complications in the form of bleeding, hypocalcaemia, wound infection, and seroma.

Results

A total of 2,102 patients (495 males and 1,607 females, age range = 13–90 years) underwent surgery for parathyroid (n = 776) or thyroid (n = 1,326) conditions. The operations included minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) (n = 331), open parathyroidectomy (n = 445), lobectomy (n = 687), isthmusectomy (n = 23), total thyroidectomy (n = 580) and thyroglossal cyst excision (n = 36). Routine arrangements were in place for consideration of same‐day discharge for lobectomies, thyroglossal cyst surgery, and MIPs; lobectomies accounted for 63 % of same‐day cases, followed by parathyroidectomy (35 %). Over the decade, day‐case surgery increased from 4 to 17 % for thyroid surgery and from 20 to 40 % for parathyroid surgery. None of the 435 patients who had same‐day discharge was readmitted for bleeding [confidence interval (CI) 0–0.6 %]. There was no 30‐day mortality for the whole cohort. Complications in patients who underwent surgery in the whole cohort versus those who were discharged the same day were temporary hypocalcaemia (4 vs. 0.2 %), permanent hypocalcaemia (1 vs. 0.4 %), bleeding (0.4 vs. 0 %), seroma (0.3 vs. 0 %), and wound infection (0.3 vs. 0 %).

Conclusion

Current protocols for thyroid or parathyroid surgery make same‐day discharge feasible and safe in carefully selected patients.

MIP
Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy
High glucose concentrations are associated with symptoms of mild anaemia in Whiskered Terns: consequences for assessing physiological quality in birds
Authors: Minias Piotr
Published: June 2014

Although blood concentrations of glucose and haemoglobin are known to correlate with nutritional state of individuals, hyperglycaemic states in vertebrates are often linked to anaemia. A negative relationship between blood concentrations of glucose and haemoglobin was confirmed in a wild population of Whiskered TernsChlidonias hybrida. Also, terns with higher haemoglobin concentrations initiated laying earlier and had clutches with larger eggs, while blood glucose concentrations of individuals were not associated with the timing of laying and egg size. This implies that blood haemoglobin concentration may be considered a much more robust indicator of physiological quality than glucose concentrations in the Whiskered Tern, and possibly in other waterbirds.
Functional studies of 18 heterologously expressed medium‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) variants
Authors: Koster Kira‐Lee , Sturm Marga , Herebian Diran , Smits Sander H. J. , Spiekerkoetter Ute
Published: June 2014

Medium‐chain acyl‐coenzyme‐A dehydrogenase (MCAD) catalyzes the first step of mitochondrial beta‐oxidation for medium‐chain acyl‐CoAs. Mutations in the ACADM gene cause MCAD deficiency presenting with life‐threatening symptoms during catabolism. Since fatty‐acid‐oxidation disorders are part of newborn screening (NBS), many novel mutations with unknown clinical relevance have been identified in asymptomatic newborns. Eighteen of these mutations were separately cloned into the human ACADM gene, heterologously overexpressed in Escherichia coli and functionally characterized by using different substrates, molecular chaperones, and measured at different temperatures. In addition, they were mapped to the three‐dimensional MCAD structure, and cross‐link experiments were performed. This study identified variants that only moderately affect the MCAD protein in vitro, such as Y42H, E18K, and R6H, in contrast to the remaining 15 mutants. These three mutants display residual octanoyl‐CoA oxidation activities in the range of 22 % to 47 %, are as temperature sensitive as the wild type, and reach 100 % activity with molecular chaperone co‐overexpression. Projection into the three‐dimensional protein structure gave some indication as to possible reasons for decreased enzyme activities. Additionally, six of the eight novel mutations, functionally characterized for the first time, showed severely reduced residual activities < 5 % despite high expression levels. These studies are of relevance because they classify novel mutants in vitro on the basis of their corresponding functional effects. This basic knowledge should be taken into consideration for individual management after NBS.
Autonomic nervous regulation of ovarian function by noxious somatic afferent stimulation
Authors: Uchida Sae , Kagitani Fusako
Published: June 2014

It is well known that ovarian function is regulated by hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian hormones. However, although several histological studies have described the autonomic innervation of the ovary, the involvement of these autonomic nerves in ovarian function is unclear. Recently, it has been shown that both the superior ovarian nerve (SON) and the ovarian nerve plexus (ONP) induce vasoconstrictor activity by activation of alpha 1-adrenoceptors, whereas the SON, but not the ONP, inhibits ovarian estradiol secretion by activation of alpha 2-adrenoceptors. Furthermore, reflex activation of these ovarian nerves by noxious cutaneous stimulation of the rat hindpaw results in ovarian vasoconstriction and inhibition of estradiol secretion. Thus, in addition to long-term regulation of ovarian function by hormones, ovarian autonomic innervation may be involved in rapid regulation of ovarian function by responding to either internal or external environmental changes.
The Clinical Nurse Leader in the Perioperative Setting: A Preceptor Experience
Authors: Wesolowski Michael S. , Casey Gwendolyn L. , Berry Shirley J. , Gannon Jane
Published: June 2014

The US Veterans Administration (VA) has implemented the clinical nurse leader (CNL) role nationwide. Nursing leaders at the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center in Gainesville, Florida, implemented the development of the CNL role in the perioperative setting during the summer of 2012. The perioperative department developed the position in partnership with the University of Florida College of Nursing, Gainesville, Florida. The team developed a description of the roles and experiences of the preceptors, the clinical nurse leader resident, and the University of Florida faculty member. The clinical nurse leader resident's successes and the positive outcomes, such as improved patient outcomes, experienced by the perioperative department demonstrated the importance of the CNL role.
Back to Basics: Environmental Cleaning
Authors: Spruce Lisa , Wood Amber
Published: June 2014

The need for a clean perioperative environment is a basic principle for all perioperative team members. Recent evidence suggests that the environment plays a role in the occurrence of health care–associated infections (HAIs), including surgical site infections. Frequently cleaning high‐touch surfaces helps prevent the spread of infections, and routinely cleaning and disinfecting the patient's environment can reduce the level and frequency of contamination and the risk of HAIs. Perioperative personnel should use a bundled approach to perform a standardized cleaning routine and implement a successful monitoring program.
Clinical Issues‐July 2014
Authors: Van Wicklin Sharon A.
Published: June 2014

This Month

Disposition of surgical specimens

Key words: disposition, specimens, microscopic examination, histologic examination, gross examination.

Determining which surgical specimens should be submitted for pathology examination

Key words: disposition, specimens, microscopic examination, histologic examination, gross examination.

Checking instrument wrappers and rigid sterilization container filters for moisture and integrity when opening sterile supplies

Key words: instrument wrappers, rigid sterilization containers, event‐related sterility, filters.

Using adherent transparent wound dressings to cover holes in surgical drapes

Key words: adherent transparent wound dressings, holes, surgical drapes, breaks in sterile technique.
Novel ways of improving communication with members of health professional associations
Authors: Chaudhary Pushpa , Tuladhar Heera
Published: June 2014

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) supported the Nepal Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (NESOG) to help influence national health policy and practice through FIGO's Leadership in Obstetrics and Gynecology for Impact and Change (LOGIC) Initiative in Maternal and Newborn Health. An Organizational Capacity Improvement Framework, developed by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), was used to evaluate NESOG's initial baseline organizational capacity in 2010. Communication among NESOG members was rated as moderate (39%). Several initiatives, such as the use of high‐speed internet access, group SMS texts and emails for information sharing, member profile updates, use of social media, and regular updates to the NESOG website were examples of interventions that resulted in improved participation of members in NESOG's activities. Members were impressively active in reciprocating via Facebook, and via participation in online voting in the NESOG elections (84%).
The impact of signing a memorandum of understanding on reproductive health with the Ministry of Public Health in Cameroon
Authors: Leke Robert J.I. , Njotang Nana P. , Shearon Azong B. , Wankah Charlotte A.
Published: June 2014

Health statistics relating to Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5 are poor for most low‐resource countries. Professional societies can assist governments to improve these health indicators. For an effective collaboration, the Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians Cameroon (SOGOC) and the Ministry of Public Health signed a memorandum of understanding on reproductive health. A major consequence of this collaboration was the ease of transfer of competence associated with SOGOC adopting a monitoring and evaluation role, which has improved quality of care. The impact of this collaboration for the Society has been significant; SOGOC is recognized as a partner and has an opportunity to play a leadership role in issues concerning reproductive health.
TORC1 and class I HDAC inhibitors synergize to suppress mature B cell neoplasms
Authors: Simmons John K. , Patel Jyoti , Michalowski Aleksandra , Zhang Shuling , Wei Bih-Rong , Sullivan Patrick , Gamache Ben , Felsenstein Kenneth , Kuehl W. Michael , Simpson R. Mark , Zingone Adriana , Landgren Ola , Mock Beverly A.
Published: June 2014

Enhanced proliferative signaling and loss of cell cycle regulation are essential for cancer progression. Increased mitogenic signaling through activation of the mTOR pathway, coupled with deregulation of the Cyclin D/retinoblastoma (Rb) pathway is a common feature of lymphoid malignancies, including plasmacytoma (PCT), multiple myeloma (MM), Burkitt's lymphoma (BL), and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Here we evaluate the synergy of pharmacologically affecting both of these critical pathways using the mTOR inhibitor sirolimus and the histone deacetylase inhibitor entinostat. A dose‐matrix screening approach found this combination to be highly active and synergistic in a panel of genetically diverse human MM cell lines. Synergy and activity was observed in mouse PCT and human BL and MCL cell lines tested in vitro, as well as in freshly isolated primary MM patient samples tested ex vivo. This combination had minimal effects on healthy donor cells and retained activity when tested in a co‐culture system simulating the protective interaction of cancer cells with the tumor microenvironment. Combining sirolimus with entinostat enhanced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. At the molecular level, entinostat increased the expression of cell cycle negative regulators including CDKN1A (p21) and CDKN2A (p16), while the combination decreased critical growth and survival effectors including Cyclin D, BCL‐XL, BIRC5, and activated MAPK.