bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Costs and consequences: Hepatitis C seroprevalence in the military and its impact on potential screening strategies
Authors: Brett‐Major David M. , Frick Kevin D. , Malia Jennifer A. , Hakre Shilpa , Okulicz Jason F. , Beckett Charmagne G. , Jagodinski Linda L. , Forgione Michael A. , Gould Philip L. , Harrison Stephen A. , Murray Clinton K. , Rentas Francisco J. , Armstrong Adam W. , Hayat Aatif M. , Pacha Laura A. , Dawson Peter , Eick‐Cost Angelia A. , Maktabi Hala H. , Michael Nelson L. , Cersovsky Steven B. , Peel Sheila A. , Scott Paul T.
Published: October 2015

Knowledge of the contemporary epidemiology of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection among military personnel can inform potential Department of Defense screening policy. HCV infection status at the time of accession and following deployment was determined by evaluating reposed serum from 10,000 service members recently deployed to combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan in the period 2007‐2010. A cost model was developed from the perspective of the Department of Defense for a military applicant screening program. Return on investment was based on comparison between screening program costs and potential treatment costs avoided. The prevalence of HCV antibody‐positive and chronic HCV infection at accession among younger recently deployed military personnel born after 1965 was 0.98/1000 (95% confidence interval 0.45‐1.85) and 0.43/1000 (95% confidence interval 0.12‐1.11), respectively. Among these, service‐related incidence was low; 64% of infections were present at the time of accession. With no screening, the cost to the Department of Defense of treating the estimated 93 cases of chronic HCV cases from a single year's accession cohort was $9.3 million. Screening with the HCV antibody test followed by the nucleic acid test for confirmation yielded a net annual savings and a $3.1 million dollar advantage over not screening. Conclusions: Applicant screening will reduce chronic HCV infection in the force, result in a small system costs savings, and decrease the threat of transfusion‐transmitted HCV infection in the battlefield blood supply and may lead to earlier diagnosis and linkage to care; initiation of an applicant screening program will require ongoing evaluation that considers changes in the treatment cost and practice landscape, screening options, and the epidemiology of HCV in the applicant/accession and overall force populations. (Hepatology 2016;63:398–407)
Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in Romania: a single‐centre experience
Authors: Fetica Bogdan , Achimas‐Cadariu Patriciu , Pop Bogdan , Dima Delia , Petrov Ljubomir , Perry Anamarija M. , Nathwani Bharat N. , Müller‐Hermelink Hans K. , Diebold Jacques , MacLennan Kenneth A. , Fulop Annamaria , Blaga Mihaiela L. , Coza Daniela , Nicula Florian Al. , Irimie Alexandru , Weisenburger Dennis D.
Published: October 2015

Epidemiologic studies of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in Eastern Europe are scarce in the literature. We report the experience of the “Ion Chiricuta” Institute of Oncology in Cluj‐Napoca (IOCN), Romania, in the diagnosis and outcome of patients with NHL. We studied 184 consecutive NHL patients diagnosed in the Pathology Department of IOCN during the years 2004–2006. We also obtained epidemiological data from the Northwestern (NW) Cancer Registry. In the IOCN series, the most common lymphoma subtype was diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (43.5%), followed by the chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (21.2%). T‐cell lymphomas represented a small proportion (8.2%). The median age of the patients was 57 years, with a male‐to‐female ratio of 0.94. Patients with indolent B‐cell lymphomas had the best overall survival, whereas those with mantle cell lymphoma had the worst survival. The NW Cancer Registry data showed that the occurrence of NHL in the NW region of Romania was higher in men [world age‐standardized incidence rate/100 000 (ASR)—5.9; 95% CI 5.1–6.6] than in women (ASR—4.1; 95% CI 3.5–4.7) with age‐standardized male‐to‐female ratio of 1.44 (p = 0.038). Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma was the most common NHL in the NW region of Romania, accounting for 43% of all cases, followed by diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (36%). The 5‐year, age‐standardized cumulative relative survival for NHL in the County of Cluj in NW Romania, for the period of 2006–2010, was 51.4%, with 58.4% survival for men and 43.2% for women. Additional studies of NHL in Eastern Europe are needed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peak flow responses to strip thinning in a nested, forested headwater catchment
Authors: Dung Bui Xuan , Hiraoka Marino , Gomi Takashi , Onda Yuichi , Kato Hiroaki
Published: October 2015

We evaluated the effects of 50% strip thinning on peak flow responses in 17‐ha and 9‐ha nested catchments. We observed 117 storm events from April 2010 to December 2013, including 32 events in the pre‐thinning period, 15 events during the thinning operation, and 70 events in the post‐thinning period. Paired‐catchment analysis with multiple pairs of nested gauging stations revealed that changes in peak flow responses varied depending on the location of the nested observation stations. Increases in peak flow during the operation period were significant in gauging stations located at the outlet and the middle of a catchment. Increases in peak flow during the post‐treatment period became significant in all nested catchments, but not in the catchment outlet. Rates of increase in peak flow ranged from 17.7% to 44.4%, which is within the range of previous studies. Different responses for changes in peak flow among nested pairs were associated with changes in internal hydrological flow pathways due to removal of timber and hydrological connectivity via overland flow generated by newly installed and reactivated skid trails. Our findings suggest that the effects of timber harvesting on peak flow are scale‐dependent with respect to drainage areas, hydrological links, and management practices. Selection of gauging locations and process‐based observations within catchments are essential for testing hypotheses related to the effects of timber harvesting with robust hydrological monitoring. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing the digital filter method for base flow estimation in glacier melt dominated basins
Authors: Gan Rong , Zuo Qiting
Published: October 2015

Base flow is an important component of streamflow. Although the simple digital filter method is widely used for base flow separation, the applicability in alpine rivers mainly dominated by glacier melt has not been described in detail. To assess and improve the performance of base flow estimates using the filter method for catchments dominated by glacier melt, the enhanced Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is used to obtain the estimates of streamflow and base flow for three catchments with different glacier melt contribution in arid and cold Northwestern China. The digital filter is then applied to the simulated streamflow to separate base flow and assess how well the base flow by the filter method matches these obtained using the SWAT model. In order to obtain the best match between the base flow by the filter method and those using the SWAT model, the linear regression model is used to estimate the relation between the filtered base flow and the glacier melt. It was found that the filtered base flow was matched well with base flow using the SWAT model during the low‐flow period. However, the base flow based on the digital filter method was overestimated during the high‐flow period, especially for the Manas River and Kumarik River. The base flow indexes by the digital filter estimates were 2.9%, 33.3% and 100% larger than those of the model method for the Gongnaisi River, Manas River and Kumarik River, respectively. The differences are larger with bigger glacier melt contribution. The performance of the digital filter is affected by the glacier melt, and it can be improved significantly by the combination of filtered base flow and the glacier melt. The base flow indexes by the improved filter are 1.5%, 4.4% and 10.7% larger than those of the model method for the Gongnaisi River, Manas River and Kumarik River, respectively. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular subclasses of hepatocellular carcinoma predict sensitivity to fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibition
Authors: Schmidt Benjamin , Wei Lan , DePeralta Danielle K. , Hoshida Yujin , Tan Poh Seng , Sun Xiaochen , Sventek Janelle P. , Lanuti Michael , Tanabe Kenneth K. , Fuchs Bryan C.
Published: October 2015

A recent gene expression classification of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) includes a poor survival subclass termed S2 representing about one‐third of all HCC in clinical series. S2 cells express E‐cadherin and c‐myc and secrete AFP. As the expression of fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) differs between S2 and non‐S2 HCC, this study investigated whether molecular subclasses of HCC predict sensitivity to FGFR inhibition. S2 cell lines were significantly more sensitive (p < 0.001) to the FGFR inhibitors BGJ398 and AZD4547. BGJ398 decreased MAPK signaling in S2 but not in non‐S2 cell lines. All cell lines expressed FGFR1 and FGFR2, but only S2 cell lines expressed FGFR3 and FGFR4. FGFR4 siRNA decreased proliferation by 44% or more in all five S2 cell lines (p < 0.05 for each cell line), a significantly greater decrease than seen with knockdown of FGFR1‐3 with siRNA transfection. FGFR4 knockdown decreased MAPK signaling in S2 cell lines, but little effect was seen with knockdown of FGFR1‐3. In conclusion, the S2 molecular subclass of HCC is sensitive to FGFR inhibition. FGFR4‐MAPK signaling plays an important role in driving proliferation of a molecular subclass of HCC. This classification system may help to identify those patients who are most likely to benefit from inhibition of this pathway.
Drug diffusion, integration, and stability of nanoengineered drug‐releasing implants in bone ex‐vivo
Authors: Rahman Shafiur , Gulati Karan , Kogawa Masakazu , Atkins Gerald J. , Pivonka Peter , Findlay David M. , Losic Dusan
Published: October 2015

To treat skeletal conditions such as bone infections, osteoporotic fractures, and osteosarcoma, it would be ideal to introduce drugs directly to the affected site. Localized drug delivery from the bone implants is a promising alternative to systemic drug administration. In this study we investigated electrochemically nanoengineered Ti wire implants with titania nanotubes (TNTs), as minimally invasive drug‐releasing implants for the delivery of drugs directly into the bone tissue. Since trabecular bone in vivo contains a highly interconnected bone marrow, we sought to determine the influence of marrow on drug release and diffusion. Electrochemical anodization of Ti wires (length 10 mm) was performed to create an oxide layer with TNTs on the surface, followed by loading with a fluorescent model drug, Rhodamine B (RhB). Cores of bovine trabecular bone were generated from the sternum of a young steer, and were processed to have an intact bone marrow, or the marrow was removed. RhB‐loaded TNTs/Ti wires were inserted into the bone cores, which were then cultured ex vivo using the ZetOS™ bioreactor system to maintain bone viability. Release and diffusion of RhB inside the bone was monitored using fluorescence imaging and different patterns of drug transport in the presence or absence of marrow were observed. Scanning electron microscopy of the implants after retrieval from bone cores confirmed survival of the TNTs structures. Histological investigation showed the presence of bone cells adherent on the implants. This study shows a potential of Ti drug‐releasing implants based on TNTs technology towards localized bone therapy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 104A: 714–725, 2016.
Apheresis for babesiosis: Therapeutic parasite reduction or removal of harmful toxins or both?
Authors: Saifee Nabiha Huq , Krause Peter J. , Wu Yanyun
Published: October 2015

Babesiosis is a potentially life‐threatening illness caused by intraerythrocytic protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia that are transmitted most commonly by Ixodes ticks, and rarely from blood transfusion or congenitally. Clinical presentations of babesiosis include asymptomatic infection, mild to moderate disease, or severe disease. Antibiotics such as atovaquone plus azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine can be used effectively to treat this disease in most cases, however in high risk populations, the mortality rate can be as high as 20% despite therapy. Therapeutic exchange transfusion has been used in severe babesiosis and is of apparent therapeutic benefit. It is not entirely clear through what mechanism therapeutic exchange transfusion may help patients. Data suggests that in addition to parasite load reduction, it is possible that therapeutic exchange transfusion removes toxins generated by babesia infection. There are many remaining questions that need to be addressed regarding exchange transfusion for babesiosis. J. Clin. Apheresis 31:454–458, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distortion correction of echo‐planar diffusion‐weighted images of uterine cervix
Authors: deSouza Nandita M. , Orton Matthew , Downey Kate , Morgan Veronica A. , Collins David J. , Giles Sharon L. , Payne Geoffrey S.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To investigate the clinical utility of the reverse gradient algorithm in correcting distortions in diffusion‐weighted images of the cervix and for increasing diagnostic performance.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐one patients ages 25–72 years (mean 40 ± 11 years) with suspected or early stage cervical cancer were imaged at 3T using an endovaginal coil. T2‐weighted (W) and diffusion‐weighted images with right and left phase‐encode gradient directions were obtained coronal to the cervix (b = 0, 100, 300, 500, 800 s mm−2). Differences in angle of the endocervical canal to the x‐axis between T2W and right‐gradient, left‐gradient, and corrected images were measured. Uncorrected and corrected images were assessed for diagnostic performance when viewed together with T2W images by two independent observers against subsequent histology.

Results

The angles of the endocervical canal relative to the x‐axis were significantly different between the T2W images and the right‐gradient images (P = 0.007), approached significance for left‐gradient images (P = 0.055), and were not significantly different after correction (P = 0.95). Corrected images enabled a definitive diagnosis in 34% (n = 14) of patients classified as equivocal on uncorrected images. Tumor volume in this subset was 0.18 ± 0.44 cm3 (mean ± SD; sensitivity of detection 100% [8/8], specificity 50% [3/6] for an experienced observer). Correction did not improve diagnostic performance for the less‐experienced observer.

Conclusion

Distortion‐corrected diffusion‐weighted images improved correspondence with T2W images and diagnostic performance in a third of cases. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1218–1223.
Vocal fold varices and risk of hemorrhage
Authors: Tang Christopher Guan‐Zhong , Askin Gülce , Christos Paul J. , Sulica Lucian
Published: October 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To establish risk of hemorrhage in patients with varices compared to those without, determine additional risk factors, and make evidence‐based treatment recommendations.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients who were vocal performers presenting for care during a 24‐month period were analyzed to determine incidence of hemorrhage. Patients with varices were compared to those without. Demographic information and examination findings (presence, location, character, and size of varices; presence of mucosal lesions or paresis) were analyzed to determine predictors of hemorrhage.

Results

A total of 513 patients (60.4% female, mean age 36.6 years ± 13.95 years) were evaluated; 14 patients presenting with hemorrhage were excluded. One hundred and twelve (22.4%) patients had varices; 387 (77.6%) did not. The rate of hemorrhage in patients with varices was 2.68% at 12 months compared to 0.8% in patients without. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis revealed a hazard ratio of 10.1 for patients with varix developing hemorrhage compared to nonvarix patients (P < 0.0001). The incidence rate of hemorrhage was 3.3 cases per 1,000 person‐months for varix patients compared to 0.5 cases per 1,000 person‐months in the nonvarix group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of paresis, mucosal lesions, location of varix (left or right side; medial or lateral), or varix morphology (pinpoint, linear, lake) between patients who hemorrhaged and those that did not.

Conclusion

The presence of varices increases the risk of hemorrhage. Varix patients had 10 times the rate of hemorrhage compared to nonvarix patients, although the overall incidence is low. This data may be used to inform treatment of patients with varices.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 126:1163–1168, 2016
Analysis of youtube as a source of information for peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Gupta Harsh V. , Lee Ricky W. , Raina Sunil K. , Behrle Brian L. , Hinduja Archana , Mittal Manoj K.
Published: October 2015

Introduction: YouTube is an important resource for patients. No study has evaluated the information on peripheral neuropathy disseminated by YouTube videos. In this study, our aim was to perform a systematic review of information on YouTube regarding peripheral neuropathy. Methods: The Web site (www.youtube.com) was searched between September 19 and 21, 2014, for the terms “neuropathy,” “peripheral neuropathy,” “diabetic neuropathy,” “neuropathy causes,” and “neuropathy treatment.” Results: Two hundred videos met the inclusion criteria. Healthcare professionals accounted for almost half of the treatment videos (41 of 92; 44.6%), and most came from chiropractors (18 of 41; 43.9%). Alternative medicine was cited most frequently among the treatment discussions (54 of 145, 37.2%), followed by devices (38 of 145, 26.2%), and pharmacological treatments (23 of 145, 15.9%). Conclusions: Approximately half of the treatment options discussed in the videos were not evidence‐based. Caution should be exercised when YouTube videos are used as a patient resource. Muscle Nerve 53: 27–31, 2016
Mechanical reprocessing of polyolefin waste: A review
Authors: Yin Shi , Tuladhar Rabin , Shi Feng , Shanks Robert A. , Combe Mark , Collister Tony
Published: October 2015

Efficient technology and applications for recycled polymer waste has become increasingly important to decrease environmental contamination and to conserve nonrenewable fossil fuels. Mechanical recycling is the most widely practiced in Australia, since it is relatively easy and economic; and moreover, infrastructure for collection and reprocessing has been well established. In order to improve quality of end products of recycled plastics, various workable reprocessing techniques in the second stage of mechanical recycling have been developed and widely applied in the recycling industry. This article critically reviews the current reprocessing techniques of recycled polyolefins. Reprocessing recycled polyolefins is always accompanied with degradation, crystallization, and consequent processability problems, which result from molecular chain scission, branching, and crosslinking. The present state of knowledge and technology of various reprocessing techniques, including melt blending, filler reinforcement and mechanochemistry, is then described and evaluated systematically. Each reprocessing technique presents its own individual advantages and special applications. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2899–2909, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Pyrene‐functionalized oligofluorenes as non‐doped deep blue emitters for solution‐processed organic light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Fan Zhaokang , Li Nengquan , Quan Yiwu , Chen Qingmin , Ye Shanghui , Fan Quli , Huang Wei
Published: October 2015

Two pyrene‐functionalized oligofluorenes (TPA‐PyF3 and CBP‐PyF3) are prepared using the condensation reaction by the Friedel–Crafts procedure. In the produced oligomers, the triphenylamine or N,N′‐dicarbazolyl‐4,4′‐biphenyl core serves as a spacer bearing spiro‐linked fluorene moieties to form a multi‐H shaped structure. This specific structure efficiently retards the crystallization tendency of the pyrene groups, and gives the materials completely amorphous morphological structure and film forming ability. Solution‐processed OLEDs with the structure of ITO/PEDOT:PSS (25 nm)/TPA‐PyF3 or CBP‐PyF3 (40 nm)/TPBI (35 nm)/Ca (10 nm)/Ag (100 nm) show low turn‐on voltages of 3.6 V, and the maximum external quantum efficiencies reach 1.78% and 2.07% for TPA‐PyF3 and CBP‐PyF3, respectively. Moreover, both devices exhibit stable deep‐blue light emission with Commission International de I'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of around (0.16, 0.09) at the brightness of 100–1000 cd m−2. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 795–801
Preparation of non‐spherical particles from amphiphilic block copolymers
Authors: Kempe Kristian , Wylie Ross A. , Dimitriou Michael D. , Tran Helen , Hoogenboom Richard , Schubert Ulrich S. , Hawker Craig J. , Campos Luis M. , Connal Luke A.
Published: October 2015

Simple self‐assembly techniques to fabricate non‐spherical polymer particles, where surface composition and shape can be tuned through temperature and the choice of non‐solvents was developed. A series of amphiphilic polystyrene‐b‐poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) block copolymers were prepared and through solvent exchange techniques using varying non‐solvent composition a range of non‐spherical particles were formed. Faceted phase separated particles approximately 300 nm in diameter were obtained when self‐assembled from tetrahydrofuran (THF) into water compared with unique large multivesicular particles of 1200 nm size being obtained when assembled from THF into ethanol (EtOH). A range of intermediate structures were also prepared from a three part solvent system THF/water/EtOH. These techniques present new tools to engineer the self‐assembly of non‐spherical polymer particles. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 750–757
Ferroelectricity in (PbySn1−y)2P2S6 mixed crystals and random field BEG model
Authors: Rushchanskii K. Z. , Bilanych R. M. , Molnar A. A. , Yevych R. M. , Kohutych A. A. , Perechinskii S. I. , Samulionis V. , Banys J. , Vysochanskii Y. M.
Published: October 2015

In SnPS ferroelectric under compression, the second‐order phase transition line is observed down to the tricritical point as the transition temperature decreases to 250 K. A tricriticality at a similar temperature is also revealed in the mixed crystals on SSe substitution. For the mixed crystals with SnPb substitution, ultrasound, hypersound, and low‐frequency dielectric studies also show heterophase features appearing on decrease of the ferroelectric transition temperature below a so‐called “waterline temperature” near 250 K. Such behavior agrees with the Blume–Emery–Griffiths (BEG) model appropriate for the ferroelectric system under investigation with a three‐well local potential for the order parameter fluctuations. The BEG model modified by the random‐field phase diagram in the vicinity of the tricritical point qualitatively explains the influence of the cationic substitution on the (PbSn)PS ferroelectric properties.
Surface plasmon polaritons with plasma frequencies above 1 eV in Sn‐doped In2 O3
Authors: Kalusniak Sascha , Orphal Laura , Schäfer Peter , Sadofev Sergey
Published: October 2015

Sn‐doped In2 O3 films with free‐electron concentration varied up to 1.710cm are prepared by molecular beam epitaxy. In this way, a metallic Drude‐type dielectric function with a negative real part extending beyond = 1050 nm is created. Despite essentially polycrystalline structure of the layers, the plasmonic damping is found not to exceed 70 meV in the entire doping range making excitation of low‐loss surface plasmon polaritons at frequencies fully covering the telecommunication band feasible. A monotonically increasing discrepancy between the carrier concentration obtained from Hall‐effect and the concentration extracted from fitting the optical spectra hints at a change of the band‐structure related parameters of In2 O3 with increasing Sn‐doping.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Disrupt mTOR-Signaling and Aerobic Glycolysis During T-Cell Activation
Authors: Böttcher Martin , D. Hofmann Andreas , Bruns Heiko , Haibach Martina , Loschinski Romy , Saul Domenica , Mackensen Andreas , Le Blanc Katarina , Jitschin Regina , Mougiakakos Dimitrios
Published: October 2015

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) possess numerous regenerative and immune modulating functions. Transplantation across histocompatibility barriers is feasible due to their hypo-immunogenicity. MSCs have emerged as promising tools for treating graft-versus-host disease following allogeneic stem cell transplantation. It is well established that their clinical efficacy is substantially attributed to fine-tuning of T-cell responses. At the same time, increasing evidence suggests that metabolic processes control T-cell function and fate. Here, we investigated the MSCs' impact on the metabolic framework of activated T-cells. In fact, MSCs led to mitigated mTOR signaling. This phenomenon was accompanied by a weaker glycolytic response (including glucose uptake, glycolytic rate, and upregulation of glycolytic machinery) toward T-cell activating stimuli. Notably, MSCs express indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), which mediates T-cell suppressive tryptophan catabolism. Our observations suggest that IDO-induced tryptophan depletion interferes with a tryptophan-sufficiency signal that promotes cellular mTOR activation. Despite an immediate suppression of T-cell responses, MSCs foster a metabolically quiescent T-cell phenotype characterized by reduced mTOR signaling and glycolysis, increased autophagy, and lower oxidative stress levels. In fact, those features have previously been shown to promote generation of long-lived memory cells and it remains to be elucidated how MSC-induced metabolic effects shape in vivo T-cell immunity.
Short‐circuit current calculation and performance requirement of HVDC breakers for MMC‐MTDC systems
Authors: Zhang Zheren , Xu Zheng
Published: October 2015

To evaluate the performance requirement of high‐voltage direct current (HVDC) breakers for modular multilevel converter (MMC)‐MTDC (multi‐terminal high voltage direct current) systems with high efficiency, the equivalent model for calculating the maximum short‐circuit current is presented in this paper. First, the short‐circuit current is decomposed into the steady‐state component and the fault component according to its physical dynamics. Second, the steady‐state component is determined by solving the direct current (DC) network; the fault component is calculated by an equivalent network in which the converters are replaced by a reactance, a resistance, and a capacitance in series. Then, the complete procedure for evaluating the performance requirement of HVDC breakers is described based on short‐circuit current calculation. Verifications have been carried out based on a three‐terminal 800 MW/±400 kV bipolar MMC‐MTDC system. The results show that the proposed methodology is efficient and effective. Lastly, based on the same system, the performance requirement of HVDC breakers and the influence by the sub‐module (SM) capacitance and the smoothing reactor have been studied with the proposed methodology. © 2015 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Internationalization of Smaller Firms: Opportunity Development through Networks
Authors: Hånell Sara Melén , Ghauri Pervez N.
Published: October 2015

This article aims to contribute toward a better understanding of the opportunity development process that rapidly internationalizing small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) undergo. Little is known about how SMEs overcome challenges in the process of recognizing and exploiting market opportunities during their rapid expansion abroad. This article presents a longitudinal case study that illustrates how a firm's relationships with business, social, and political actors enhance its opportunity development during the internationalization process. The findings highlight that conducting matching activities at different levels helps the firm overcome challenges and succeed in developing new opportunities for continued expansion abroad. This study contributes to research on rapidly internationalizing firms by broadening the empirical and theoretical understanding of the opportunity development process for smaller firms. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Central Problems in Social Theory
Authors: Giddens Anthony
Published: October 2015

In this new and brilliantly organized book of essays, Anthony Giddens discusses three main theoretical traditions in social science that cut across the division between Marxist and non-Marxist sociology: interpretive sociology, functionalism, and structuralism.

Beginning with a critical examination of the importance of structuralism for contemporary sociology, the author develops a comprehensive account of what he calls "the theory of structuration." One of the main themes is that social theory must recognize, as it has not done hitherto, that all social actors are knowledgeable about the social systems they produce and reproduce in their conduct. In order to grasp the significance of this, he argues, we have to reconsider some of the most basic concepts in sociology.

In particular, Giddens argues, it is essential to recognize the significance of time-space relations in social theory. He rejects the distinction between synchrony and diachrony, or statics and dynamics, involved in both structuralism and functionalism, and offers extensive critical commentary on the latter as an approach to sociology.

The book, which can be described as a "non-functionalist manifesto," breaks with the three main theoretical traditions in the social sciences today while retaining the significant contributions each contains. In so doing Giddens discusses a range of fundamental problem areas in the social sciences: power and domination, conflict and contradiction, and social transformation. He concludes with an overall appraisal of the key problems in social theory today.
Politics Of Child Abuse
Authors: Parton Nigel
Published: October 2015

‘… the most comprehensive account to date of the discovery and identification of child abuse and its consolidation in Britain as a social problem … informative and compelling … an important study not only of child abuse but also of the sociology of a social problem.… The Times Higher Education Supplement
Effect of the Addition of Chili Pepper Powder on Vegetable Oils Oxidative Stability
Authors: Cavazza Antonella , Corti Stefania , Mancinelli Claudia , Bignardi Chiara , Corradini Claudio
Published: October 2015

Red chili pepper represents an excellent source of functional bioactive compounds, and its use as food additive could be useful for protecting other products from spoilage. Olive oils show a limited shelf‐life due to a progressive quality deterioration linked mostly to oxidation reactions providing a loss of quality in terms of organoleptic and healthy properties. In this work, the addition of red chili pepper powder to virgin, extra‐virgin olive and sunflower oils was proved to be effective in improving their stability during 12 months of shelf‐life. Oil stability was monitored by employing the Oxitest system, based on accelerating the oxidation process. Three pepper powders of different pungency were added to the virgin olive oil samples with the aim of investigating whether capsaicinoids could be responsible for the observed effects. The strongest effect was recorded when employing the less pungent pepper showing that the protective effect could not be attributed to the capsaicinoids content. Besides, a screening on different oils demonstrated that the less stable samples received a stronger protective effect. The evaluation of a possible dose‐effect relation was also carried out pointing out that a threshold dose of about 1 % was required to record an effect. The results suggest potential perspectives in the field of food technology, as addition of a small amount of sweet pepper could be proposed to prolong food shelf‐life.
The Long-Term Impact of an Education for Sustainability Course on Israeli Science and Technology Teachers’ Pro-Environment Awareness, Commitment and Behaviour
Authors: Abramovich Anat , Loria Yahavit
Published: October 2015

The impact of an Education for Sustainability (EfS) course for science and technology junior high school teachers on the intentional and actual environmental behaviour of participants was studied by researching the EfS implementation of 13 science and technology teachers within their family, community, and work environment. The research was qualitative in nature, where science and technology teachers’ insights on the EfS course were determined by means of an open-ended questionnaire and intensive interviews. Results indicated that the course clearly influenced the vast majority of the participants, who claimed that their environmental awareness had increased and they were capable of acting responsibly. All participants acted in favour of the environment among family, community, and at work. Yet, 2 years later, implementation seemed to be undermined by various internal and external barriers, such as the unavailability of convenient resources, or resistance on the part of family. The study suggests that course designers must include reference to potential difficulties and barriers in order to circumvent future obstacles. In addition, the implementation of post-course support would encourage overcoming the gap between willingness to act and actual practice.
Usefulness of Adenosinetriphosphate Bioluminescence Assay (ATPmetry) for Monitoring the Reprocessing of Endoscopes
Authors: Batailler Pierre , Saviuc Philippe , Picot-Gueraud Romain , Bosson Jean-Luc , Mallaret Marie-Reine
Published: October 2015

OBJECTIVE

To assess the diagnostic value of an adenosinetriphosphate bioluminescence assay (ATPmetry) to monitor the effectiveness of the reprocessing of endoscopes compared with microbiologic sampling.

DESIGN

Diagnostic study.

SETTING

A 2,200-bed teaching hospital performing 5,000 to 6,000 endoscopic procedures annually.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

All samples from bronchial or gastrointestinal endoscopes whatever the context.

METHODS

Samples for microbiologic analysis and ATPmetry measurements were taken when each endoscope was inspected following reprocessing. Sampling was performed by flushing each endoscope with 300 mL Neutralizing Pharmacopeia Diluent thiosulfate rinsing solution divided equally between the endoscope channels. For each endoscope a series of 3 ATPmetry measurements were made on a vial containing the first jet from each channel and a second series on the whole sample.

RESULTS

Of 165 samples from endoscopes, 11 exceeded the acceptability threshold of 25 colony-forming units/endoscope. In the first jet collected, the median (interquartile range) level of ATPmetry was 30.5 (15.3–37.7) relative light units (RLU) for samples with 25 or fewer colony-forming units compared with 37.0 (34.7–39.3) RLU for samples with more than 25 colony-forming units (P=.008). For the whole sample, the median (interquartile range) level of ATPmetry was 24.8 (14.3–36.3) RLU and 36.3 (36.0–38.3) RLU (P=.006), respectively. After adjusting on the batch of cleansing solution used, no difference in ATPmetry values was found between microbiologically acceptable and unacceptable samples.

CONCLUSION

ATPmetry cannot be used as an alternative or complementary approach to microbiologic tests for monitoring the reprocessing of endoscopes in France

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2015;36(12):1437–1443
No effect of modest selenium supplementation on insulin resistance in UK pregnant women, as assessed by plasma adiponectin concentration
Authors: Mao Jinyuan , Bath Sarah C. , Vanderlelie Jessica J. , Perkins Anthony V. , Redman Christopher W. G. , Rayman Margaret P.
Published: October 2015

Concern has been expressed recently that Se may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, but this has not been tested in a randomised-controlled trial (RCT) in pregnant women. We took advantage of having stored plasma samples from the Se in Pregnancy Intervention (SPRINT) RCT of Se supplementation in pregnancy to test the effect of Se supplementation on a marker of insulin resistance in UK pregnant women. Because our blood samples were not fasted, we measured plasma adiponectin concentration, a recognised marker of insulin resistance that gives valid measurements in non-fasted samples, as diurnal variability is minor and there is no noticeable effect of food intake. In SPRINT, 230 primiparous UK women were randomised to treatment with Se (60 μg/d) or placebo from 12 weeks of gestation until delivery. We hypothesised that supplementation with Se at a nutritional level would not exacerbate the fall in adiponectin concentration that occurs in normal pregnancy, indicating the lack of an adverse effect on insulin resistance. Indeed, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the change in adiponectin from 12 to 35 weeks (P=0·938), nor when the analysis was restricted to the bottom or top quartiles of baseline whole-blood Se (P=0·515 and 0·858, respectively). Cross-sectionally, adiponectin concentration was not associated with any parameter of Se status, either at 12 or 35 weeks. It is reassuring that a nutritional dose of Se had no adverse effect on the concentration of adiponectin, a biomarker of insulin resistance, in pregnant women of modest Se status.
Nut consumption is associated with better nutrient intakes: results from the 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey
Authors: Brown Rachel C. , Tey Siew Ling , Gray Andrew R. , Chisholm Alex , Smith Claire , Fleming Elizabeth , Parnell Winsome
Published: October 2015

A limited number of studies have examined associations between nut consumption and nutrient intakes or diet quality. None has investigated these associations in the Southern Hemisphere. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between nut consumption and nutrient intakes among adult New Zealanders. Data from the 24-h recalls of 4721 participants from the cross-sectional 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey (2008/09 NZANS) were used to determine whole nut intake and total nut intake from all sources as well as nutrient intakes. Regression models, both unadjusted and adjusted for potential confounders, were used to estimate differences in nutrient intakes between those consuming and those not consuming nuts. From adjusted models, compared with non-whole nut consumers, whole nut consumers had higher intakes of energy and percentage of energy from total fat, MUFA and PUFA, whereas percentage of energy from SFA and carbohydrate was lower (all P≤0·025). After the additional adjustment for energy intake, whole nut consumers had higher intakes of dietary fibre, vitamin E, folate, Cu, Mg, K, P and Zn (all P≤0·044), whereas cholesterol and vitamin B12 intakes were significantly lower (both P≤0·013). Total nut consumption was associated with similar nutrient profiles as observed in whole nut consumers, albeit less pronounced. Nut consumption was associated with better nutrient profiles, especially a lower intake of SFA and higher intakes of unsaturated fats and a number of vitamins and minerals that could collectively reduce the risk for chronic disease, in particular for CVD.
Molecular analysis of selected paramphistome isolates from cattle in southern Africa
Authors: Dube S. , Sibula M.S. , Dhlamini Z.
Published: October 2015

Paramphistomes are parasites of domestic and wild ruminants, the effects of which in animal health remain underestimated. Very few studies in Africa have been done using molecular techniques to resolve situations associated with taxonomical groupings and epidemiology of these parasites. In this study, the genetic variability of nine representative paramphistome isolates collected from southern African countries, namely Botswana, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, was assessed using both morphological and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) rDNA sequence data. Morphological characterization and identification were carried out using median sagittal sections of the paramphistomes. DNA of the individual paramphistomes was isolated, the ITS2 rDNA was amplified, purified and sequenced. The sequences were submitted to GenBank, which assigned them the following accession numbers: KP639631, KP639630, KP639632, KP639633, KP639634, KP639635, KP639636, KP639637 and KP639638. These sequences were used for phylogenetic analysis using MEGA 6. Morphological characterization revealed three species of paramphistomes belonging to three different sub-families: oneStephanopharynx compactusisolate, a member of the Stephanopharyngidae sub-family; oneCarmyerius dollfusiisolate, a member of the Gastrothylacidae sub-family; and sevenCalicophoron microbothriumisolates belonging to the Paramphistomidae sub-family. ITS2 sequence analysis using BlastN results indicated that this is the first report ofS. compactus(KP639630) andC. dollfusi(KP639636). Phylogenetic reconstruction of the paramphistome isolates revealed three separate clades representing the three species. However, the clade with all theC. microbothriumisolates was the only one that was supported by a higher bootstrap value of 92%, although there was no differentiation of the isolates according to geographical locations. The low divergence values on the ITS2 sequences of theC. microbothriumisolates indicate that ITS rDNA sequences can be used as a molecular tool to infer knowledge for resolving taxonomic groupings.
WHY DID SPANISH REGIONS NOT CONVERGE BEFORE THE CIVIL WAR? AGGLOMERATION ECONOMIES AND (REGIONAL) GROWTH REVISITED
Authors: Díez-Minguela Alfonso , Martínez-Galarraga Julio , Tirado-Fabregat Daniel A.
Published: October 2015

In this paper we explore the relationship between the presence of agglomeration economies and regional economic growth in Spain during the period 1870-1930. The study allows us to revisit the existence of a trade-off between economic growth and territorial cohesion, and also to examine whether the existence of agglomeration economies could explain the upswing in regional income inequality during the early stages of development. In doing so, we present alternative indicators for agglomeration economies and estimate conditional growth regressions at province (NUTS3) level. In line with new economic geography models, agglomeration economies in a context of market integration widened regional inequality in the second half of the 19th century and hindered its reduction during the early decades of the 20th.
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ϵ4 Allele Is Associated with Increased Symptom Reporting Following Sports Concussion
Authors: Merritt Victoria C. , Arnett Peter A.
Published: October 2015

Exploring the relationship between genetic factors and outcome following brain injury has received increased attention in recent years. However, few studies have evaluated the influence of genes on specific sequelae of concussion. The purpose of this study was to determine how the ϵ4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene influences symptom expression following sports-related concussion. Participants included 42 collegiate athletes who underwent neuropsychological testing, including completion of the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS), within 3 months after sustaining a concussion (73.8% were evaluated within 1 week). Athletes provided buccal samples that were analyzed to determine the make-up of their APOE genotype. Dependent variables included a total symptom score and four symptom clusters derived from the PCSS. Mann-Whitney U tests showed higher scores reported by athletes with the ϵ4 allele compared to those without it on the total symptom score and the physical and cognitive symptom clusters. Furthermore, logistic regression showed that the ϵ4 allele independently predicted those athletes who reported physical and cognitive symptoms following concussion. These findings illustrate that ϵ4+ athletes report greater symptomatology post-concussion than ϵ4- athletes, suggesting that the ϵ4 genotype may confer risk for poorer post-concussion outcome. (JINS, 2016, 22, 89–94)
Timing of referral to inpatient palliative care services for advanced cancer patients and earlier referral predictors in mainland China
Authors: Gu Xiaoli , Cheng Wenwu , Chen Menglei , Liu Minghui , Zhang Zhe
Published: October 2015

Objective:

Routine early integration of palliative care with advanced cancer management is not yet a part of standard practice in many countries, including mainland China. Whether patients in China suffering from advanced cancer are referred to palliative care services in a timely manner remains unclear. We sought to investigate the timing of palliative care referral of Chinese cancer patients at our center and its predictors.

Method:

Retrospective medical data including demographic characteristics and referral information were collected for analysis. A total of 759 patients referred to our palliative care unit (PCU) from January of 2007 to December of 2013 were included in the final analysis.

Results:

The mean age of the 759 patients included in the study was 62.89 years (range 61.95–63.82). Some 369 patients (48.6%) were male and 559 (73.6%) Shanghainese (indigenous). Lung cancer (17.9%) was the most common diagnosis. The time interval since enrollment into the PCU until a patient's death (length of stay, LOS) was calculated. A longer LOS indicated earlier referral to inpatient PC services. The median LOS was 21 days (CI95% = 19.79–22.21). Multivariate analysis showed that whether or not the patient was indigenous (p = 0.002) and younger than 65 (p = 0.031) were independent factors for a longer LOS. Such other characteristics as gender and primary cancer type bore no relationship to LOS.

Significance of results:

Our findings demonstrate that Chinese cancer patients are referred relatively late in the course of their disease to inpatient palliative care services. To overcome the barriers to early integration of palliative care into a patient's treatment plan, accurate information about palliative care must be provided to both oncologists and patients via comprehensive and systematic educational programs.
Hydroids (Cnidaria: Hydrozoa) from Tristan da Cunha and St. Helena
Authors: Galea Horia R.
Published: October 2015

The present report provides the first account of the shallow water hydroids of St. Helena, which comprises 17 species, and adds nine new records to the hydrozoan fauna of the Tristan da Cunha group of islands, raising their number to 34. A total of 34 species, belonging to five families of Anthoathecata and eight families of Thecata, are discussed herein. Although distributional data are given for each species, brief diagnoses are provided for the lesser known or unidentifiable species, and the common taxa are occasionally accompanied by succinct remarks. Illustrations are provided for nearly all species in order to justify their identification and to facilitate identification by others.Fiordlandia protectaandFilellum bouvetensis,both from Gough Island, represent the second world records and extend their known area of distribution.