bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Reactivity of Late Transition Metal η3‐Benzyl Complexes
Authors: Trost Barry M. , Czabaniuk Lara C.
Published: February 2014

The coordination of transition metals to organic fragments can yield complexes with fascinating and unexpected binding patterns. The study of metal‐benzyl complexes has demonstrated the feasibility of η3‐coordination, which results in a dearomatized ring. These complexes also offer insight into reaction mechanisms as proposed intermediates in catalytic cycles. In this Review we discuss the synthesis and characterization of these complexes with late transition metals and the subsequent development of catalytic benzylic functionalization methods, including asymmetric variants.
Carbon Nanotubes/Heteroatom‐Doped Carbon Core–Sheath Nanostructures as Highly Active, Metal‐Free Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts for Alkaline Fuel Cells
Authors: Sa Young Jin , Park Chiyoung , Jeong Hu Young , Park Seok‐Hee , Lee Zonghoon , Kim Kyoung Taek , Park Gu‐Gon , Joo Sang Hoon
Published: February 2014

A facile, scalable route to new nanocomposites that are based on carbon nanotubes/heteroatom‐doped carbon (CNT/HDC) core–sheath nanostructures is reported. These nanostructures were prepared by the adsorption of heteroatom‐containing ionic liquids on the walls of CNTs, followed by carbonization. The design of the CNT/HDC composite allows for combining the electrical conductivity of the CNTs with the catalytic activity of the heteroatom‐containing HDC sheath layers. The CNT/HDC nanostructures are highly active electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction and displayed one of the best performances among heteroatom‐doped nanocarbon catalysts in terms of half‐wave potential and kinetic current density. The four‐electron selectivity and the exchange current density of the CNT/HDC nanostructures are comparable with those of a Pt/C catalyst, and the CNT/HDC composites were superior to Pt/C in terms of long‐term durability and poison tolerance. Furthermore, an alkaline fuel cell that employs a CNT/HDC nanostructure as the cathode catalyst shows very high current and power densities, which sheds light on the practical applicability of these new nanocomposites.
Synthesis and Catalytic Reactions of Nanoparticles formed by Electrospray Ionization of Coinage Metals
Authors: Li Anyin , Luo Qingjie , Park So‐Jung , Cooks R. Graham
Published: February 2014

Noble metals can be ionized by electrochemical corrosion and transported by electrospray ionization. Mass spectrometry (MS) showed solvated metal ions as the main ionic constituent of the sprayed droplets. Collection of the electrospray plume on a surface yielded noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) under ambient conditions. The NPs were characterized by several techniques. Under typical conditions, capped‐nanoparticle sizes averaged 2.2 nm for gold and 6.5 nm for silver. The gold nanoparticles showed high catalytic activity in the reduction of p‐nitrophenol by NaBH4. Efficient catalysis was also observed by simply directing the spray of solvated Au+ onto the surface of an aqueous p‐nitrophenol/NaBH4 mixture. Organometallic ions were generated by spiking ligands into the spray solvent: for example, CuI bipyridine cations dominated the spray during Cu electrocorrosion in acetonitrile containing bipyridine. This organometallic reagent was shown to be effective in the radical polymerization of styrene.
Two Dimensional Materials Beyond MoS2: Noble‐Transition‐Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Miró Pere , Ghorbani‐Asl Mahdi , Heine Thomas
Published: February 2014

The structure and electronic structure of layered noble‐transition‐metal dichalcogenides MX2 (M=Pt and Pd, and chalcogenides X=S, Se, and Te) have been investigated by periodic density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The MS2 monolayers are indirect band‐gap semiconductors whereas the MSe2 and MTe2 analogues show significantly smaller band gap and can even become semimetallic or metallic materials. Under mechanical strain these MX2 materials become quasi‐direct band‐gap semiconductors. The mechanical‐deformation and electron‐transport properties of these materials indicate their potential application in flexible nanoelectronics.
Mechanical and thermal characterization of compression moulded polylactic acid natural fiber composites reinforced with hemp and lyocell fibers
Authors: Baghaei Behnaz , Skrifvars Mikael , Rissanen Marja , Ramamoorthy Sunil Kumar
Published: February 2014

This research evaluates the effects of PLA/PP blend ratio and Lyocell/hemp mixture ratio on the morphology, water absorption, mechanical and thermal properties of PLA‐based composites. The composites were fabricated with 30 mass % hemp using compression moulding. As a reference composites made from PP were also studied. Combining of hemp and Lyocell in PLA composite leads to the reduction of moisture absorption and can improve the impact, tensile, flexural properties when compared with PLA/hemp. Composite based on the PLA/PP blend‐matrix could not improve the tensile and flexural properties compared with PLA/hemp, however; the lighter composite with better impact properties was obtained. The crystallization temperature of the PLA‐PP/hemp increased compared with pure PLA. This result was also confirmed by the SEM micrographs. The moisture absorption of PLA‐PP/hemp was higher than PLA/hemp. Based on theoretical analysis of DMTA data, there was favorable adhesion in all composites. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40534.
Two to Ten Years: Developmental Trajectories of Joint Attention in Children With ASD Who Received Targeted Social Communication Interventions
Authors: Gulsrud Amanda C. , Hellemann Gerhard S. , Freeman Stephanny F.N. , Kasari Connie
Published: February 2014

This study follows 40 children who were participants in a randomized controlled early intervention trial (Kasari et al.) from early childhood (2–5 years of age) to elementary school age (8–10 years). To fully utilize the available longitudinal data, the general linear mixed model was the primary analytical approach. The growth trajectories of joint attention skills (pointing, coordinated joint looking, and showing) and expressive language outcomes in these children were estimated based on five time points during the measurement period. The children were grouped by diagnosis at the last follow‐up (autism, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), no diagnosis) and by their original treatment group assignment (joint attention, symbolic play, control), and differences between these groups were evaluated. Results showed that joint attention skills of coordinated joint looking and showing increased over time, and pointing to share interest increased over the first year measured and decreased thereafter. These trajectories were influenced by both original treatment assignment and diagnostic status at follow‐up. In addition, a cross‐lagged panel analysis revealed a causal relationship between early pointing and later language development. This study highlights the longitudinal and developmental importance of measures of early core deficits in autism, and suggests that both treatment and ASD symptomatology may influence growth in these skills over time. Autism Res 2014, 7: 207–215. © 2014 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Health, Developmental and Support Needs of Vulnerable Children – Comparing Children in Foster Care and Children in Need
Authors: Raman Shanti , Sahu Sharmishta
Published: February 2014

The health needs of children in foster care (FC) have been well described and pathways to health assessment established. Such pathways for other vulnerable children are scarce. We aimed to describe the health and service needs of children attending community paediatric (CP) clinics specifically set up for children exposed to psychosocial risk factors in South Western Sydney (SWS), and to compare the needs of children in FC to those in parental care. We analysed the clinic records of all children attending CP clinics for vulnerable children in SWS in 2008. Of the 98 children seen, the mean age was 4.6 years, the majority (88%) had abuse documented and 57 per cent were in FC. Family risk factors included parental substance use (65%), domestic violence (57%) and parental mental health disorder (33%). Health needs identified included speech delay (45%), developmental delay (39%) and incomplete immunisation (34%); many children required specialist referral. Behavioural and educational difficulties were encountered in almost one‐half of the children. There were no significant differences in health/support needs between those in FC and those in parental care. Pathways to early identification/intervention need to be broadened beyond those established for children in FC, to include those exposed to a range of psychosocial adversities. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘Behavioural and educational difficulties were encountered in almost one‐half of the children’

Key Practitioner Messages:

Children in FC and children exposed to psychosocial adversities have a range of health, developmental and psychosocial problems.

There are no differences in health or service needs of children exposed to psychosocial adversities, whether they are in FC or parental care.

Early identification can lead to intervention and the amelioration of risks.

Improving access to paediatric and psychosocial assessments for all vulnerable children rather than just children in care is crucial.

‘Early identification can lead to intervention and the amelioration of risks.’
Quality of end‐of‐life care in patients with hematologic malignancies: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hui David , Didwaniya Neha , Vidal Marieberta , Shin Seong Hoon , Chisholm Gary , Roquemore Joyce , Bruera Eduardo
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, only limited data are available regarding the quality of end‐of‐life care for patients with hematologic malignancies. In this retrospective cohort study, the quality of end‐of‐life care was compared between patients with hematologic malignancies and those with solid tumors.

METHODS

All adult patients who died of advanced cancer between September 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010 while under the care of the study institution were included. The authors collected baseline demographics and end‐of‐life care indicators, including emergency room visits, hospitalization, intensive care unit admissions, and systemic cancer therapy use within the last 30 days of life.

RESULTS

Of a total of 816 decedents, 113 (14%) had hematologic malignancies. In the last 30 days of life, patients with hematologic malignancies were more likely to have emergency room visits (54% vs 43%; P = .03), hospital admissions (81% vs 47%; P < .001), ≥ 2 hospital admissions (23% vs 10%; P < .001), > 14 days of hospitalization (38% vs 8%; P < .001), intensive care unit admissions (39% vs 8%; P < .001) and death (33% vs 4%; P < .001), chemotherapy use (43% vs 14%; P < .001), and targeted therapy use (34% vs 11%; P < .001) compared with patients with solid tumors. Patients with hematologic malignancies were also less likely to have palliative care unit admissions (8% vs 17%; P = .02). The composite score for aggressiveness of care (with 0 indicating the best and 6 indicating the worst) was significantly higher among patients with hematologic malignancies compared with those with solid tumors (median, 2 vs 0; P < .001). On multivariate analysis, hematologic malignancy was found to be a significant factor associated with aggressive end‐of‐life care (odds ratio, 6.6; 95% confidence interval, 4.1‐10.7 [P < .001]).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study indicate that patients with hematologic malignancies received more aggressive care at the end of life. Cancer 2014;120:1572–1578. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of a new testosterone gel formulation in comparison to Testogel® in healthy men
Authors: Olsson Håkan , Sandström Rikard , Neijber Anders , Carrara Dario , Grundemar Lars
Published: February 2014

This randomized, open‐label, multiple‐dose three‐way cross‐over study compared the pharmacokinetics of a new testosterone gel formulation in two strengths, testosterone gel 1% and testosterone gel 2% (FE 999303), with Testogel® in 11 testosterone‐suppressed healthy men. Subjects received one of six treatment sequences; 50 mg of testosterone was administered once daily for 7 consecutive days, with different treatments separated by washout‐periods of 6–9 days. Testosterone gel 1% and testosterone gel 2% displayed greater relative bioavailability (2.6‐ and 1.6‐fold, respectively) than Testogel on Day 1, which persisted, to a smaller extent, on Day 7. Initial absorption was highest and most rapid for testosterone gel 1% and 2%, showing apparent first‐order absorption kinetics. Maximum serum concentrations (Cmax) were 6.25 and 2.97 ng/mL, respectively, occurring ∼5–6 hours post‐application on Day 1 versus Cmax of 1.71 ng/mL after ∼24 hours with Testogel, showing apparent zero‐order absorption kinetics. Similar differences were observed on Day 7. All treatments appeared to reach approximately the same steady‐state level within the first 24 hours. No application‐site skin reactions occurred with any preparation. In conclusion, the new testosterone formulation showed higher bioavailability, and the ability to deliver more testosterone in a smaller volume.
Double‐tip effects on scanning tunneling microscopy imaging of 2D periodic objects: unambiguous detection and limits of their removal by crystallographic averaging in the spatial frequency domain
Authors: Straton Jack C. , Bilyeu Taylor T. , Moon Bill , Moeck Peter
Published: February 2014

Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) images can be obscured by signals from blunt and multiple probe tips. We show why crystallographic image processing (CIP) techniques may be utilized to restore obscured images that are periodic in two dimensions. The image‐forming current for double tips in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) is derived in a more straightforward manner than prior approaches. The Fourier spectrum of the tunneling current forp4mmBloch surface wave functions and a pair of delta function tips reveals the tip‐separation dependence. Our analysis clarifieswhycrystallographic averaging works well in removing such effects from the recorded 2D periodic images and also outlines the limitations of this image processing technique for certain spatial separations of STM double‐tips. Classical simulations of double tip effects in STM images (that ignore electron interference effects) may be understood as modeling double tip effects in images that were recorded with other types of SPMs. AppendixAdemonstrates how double tip effects on scanning probe microscope images are detected unambiguously.
Performance impact of JobTracker failure in Hadoop
Authors: Kim Young‐Pil , Hong Cheol‐Ho , Yoo Chuck
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we analyze the performance impact of JobTracker failure in Hadoop. A JobTracker failure is a serious problem that affects the overall job processing performance. We describe the cause of failure and the system behaviors because of failed job processing in the Hadoop. On the basis of the analysis, we build a job completion time model that reflects failure effects. Our model is based on a stochastic process with a node crash probability. With our model, we run simulation of performance impact with very credible failure data available from USENIX called computer failure data repository that have been collected for past 9 years. The results show that the performance impact is very severe in that the job completion time increases about four times typically, and in a worst case, it increases up to 68 times. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intraoperative imprint cytology of ovarian transitional cell (Brenner) tumors: A retrospective study
Authors: Singh Rohit Inder , Rosen Lauren , Reddy Vijaya B. , Bitterman Pincas , Stemm Matthew H. , Gattuso Paolo
Published: February 2014

Literature on fine‐needle aspiration of ovarian transitional cell tumor or Brenner tumors is sparse and mostly confined to isolated case reports of metastatic transitional cell tumors.

 We undertook a retrospective study of intraoperative imprint cytology of ovarian transitional cell tumors to better define the cytologic features of this uncommon ovarian tumor. Between 2005 and 2012, a total of 19 ovarian transitional cell tumors were recorded in our surgical pathology files, 10 of which had concomitant imprint cytologic material available for review.

 The 10 patients included in this study ranged in age between 43 and 73 years (mean age: 54 years). Nine neoplasms were histologically benign and one was borderline. Nine cases had satisfactory cytologic material for review. The cytologic features can be summarized as follows: the eight benign tumors showed abundant naked nuclei in the background, small and large clusters of tumor cells, abundant cytoplasm, smooth nuclear membranes, and lack of nuclear pleomorphism and mitoses. Single plasmacytoid cells with dense blue abundant cytoplasm, perinuclear vacuoles, nucleoli, microfollicle formation, nuclear grooves, binucleation/multinucleation, and extracellular eosinophilic material were some of the other features that were appreciated. The cytologic features of the one case of borderline transitional cell tumor were similar to those of the benign tumors except for the presence of rare mitoses, easily identifiable nuclear pleomorphism and irregular nuclear membranes.

 This study highlights some characteristic cytologic features of benign/borderline transitional cell tumors of the ovary which can be of help in recognizing this uncommon neoplasm. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2014;42:660–663. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Smoldering medullary thyroid carcinoma liver metastasis 37 years after resection of an organ‐confined tumor
Authors: Waters Kevin M. , Ali Syed Z. , Erozan Yener S. , Olson Matthew T.
Published: February 2014

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is an uncommon thyroid tumor that usually behaves aggressively. After resection, serological surveillance for calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is used to prompt a radiographic search for metastatic disease. We report a case of a 65‐year‐old woman who presented with a large liver metastasis 37 years after she underwent thyroidectomy for organ‐confined MTC. Her clinical course over that time showed a smoldering pattern in which she was symptom free until presentation even though her serum calcitonin and CEA concentrations were elevated for 17 years, and a small equivocal radiographic lesion in the liver was detected 10 years prior to presentation. Cytopathology from an ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration of the hepatic lesion was diagnostic for metastatic MTC. This case highlights the ability for smoldering residual MTC to suddenly transform to aggressive biological behavior after a long period of clinical remission. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2015;43:45–48. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EUS‐guided 22‐gauge fine‐needle aspiration versus core biopsy needle in the evaluation of solid pancreatic neoplasms
Authors: Strand Daniel S. , Jeffus Susanne K. , Sauer Bryan G. , Wang Andrew Y. , Stelow Edward B. , Shami Vanessa M.
Published: February 2014

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) is widely used for diagnosis of pancreatic lesions. The Echotip Procore Needle (Wilson‐Cook Medical) is a new 22G fine biopsy needle (FNB) for obtaining core biopsy material at time of EUS. This study aimed to compare the technical and diagnostic performance of conventional FNA and FNB. Thirty‐two patients met the design criteria for this prospective paired cohort study. All lesions sampled were solid (non‐cystic) pancreatic masses by EUS appearance. Patients were randomized to receive FNA or FNB by first attempt. A cytopathologist performed on‐site evaluations. Samples were assessed for accuracy of diagnosis, cellularity, contamination, and sufficiency for ancillary studies. Technical and diagnostic performances were compared. Compared to FNA, there was a statistically significant decreased ability of FNB to achieve a diagnosis (FNA 93.8%, FNB 28.1%, P < 0.001). FNB was diagnostically superior to FNA in 1 of 32 cases. Technical failures were observed in five cases due to resistance to advancement of the FNB needle. Regarding operator perceived ease‐of‐use, FNA outperformed FNB (P < 0.001). Eight cases had insufficient FNB material to survive tissue processing. There was no significant difference in mean specimen cellularity between devices. FNA samples showed an increased amount of contaminant (P = 0.036) but were more sufficient for ancillary studies (P = 0.502). Although deemed comparable to FNA when providing material for cytology, the pledged advantage of FNB acting like a core biopsy needle was not apparent in our series. Additional studies are needed before routine adoption of 22G FNB can be recommended. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2014;42:751–758. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Equal nonbreeding period survival in adults and juveniles of a long‐distant migrant bird
Authors: Grüebler Martin U. , Korner‐Nievergelt Fränzi , Naef‐Daenzer Beat
Published: February 2014

In migrant birds, survival estimates for the different life‐history stages between fledging and first breeding are scarce. First‐year survival is shown to be strongly reduced compared with annual survival of adult birds. However, it remains unclear whether the main bottleneck in juvenile long‐distant migrants occurs in the postfledging period within the breeding ranges or en route. Quantifying survival rates during different life‐history stages and during different periods of the migration cycle is crucial to understand forces driving the evolution of optimal life histories in migrant birds. Here, we estimate survival rates of adult and juvenile barn swallows (Hirundo rustica L.) in the breeding and nonbreeding areas using a population model integrating survival estimates in the breeding ranges based on a large radio‐telemetry data set and published estimates of demographic parameters from large‐scale population‐monitoring projects across Switzerland. Input parameters included the country‐wide population trend, annual productivity estimates of the double‐brooded species, and year‐to‐year survival corrected for breeding dispersal. Juvenile survival in the 3‐week postfledging period was low (S = 0.32; SE = 0.05), whereas in the rest of the annual cycle survival estimates of adults and juveniles were similarly high (S > 0.957). Thus, the postfledging period was the main survival bottleneck, revealing the striking result that nonbreeding period mortality (including migration) is not higher for juveniles than for adult birds. Therefore, focusing future research on sources of variation in postfledging mortality can provide new insights into determinants of population dynamics and life‐history evolution of migrant birds.
Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Ethylene Glycol at Pt/Nanosized MOx/GC Composite Electrodes: SnO2 in Comparison to CeO2 and WO3
Authors: El‐Shafei A. A. , Ibrahim A. A. , Ouf A. M. A.
Published: February 2014

Stable metal oxides insoluble in acidic medium have been prepared and characterized. The influence of the type of metal oxide (MOx) on the activity of Pt towards ethylene glycol oxidation in acidic medium has been examined. All modified Pt/MOx/glassy carbon (GC) electrodes exhibited a better activity compared to Pt/GC. While Pt/SnO2/GC electrode exhibited the highest activity, Pt/CeO2/GC revealed the best tolerance against poisoning process.
Detrimental effects of UV‐B radiation in a xeroderma pigmentosum‐variant cell line
Authors: Herman Kimberly N. , Toffton Shannon , McCulloch Scott D.
Published: February 2014

DNA polymerase η (pol η), of the Y‐family, is well known for its in vitro DNA lesion bypass ability. The most well‐characterized lesion bypassed by this polymerase is the cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) caused by ultraviolet (UV) light. Historically, cellular and whole‐animal models for this area of research have been conducted using UV‐C (λ = 100–280 nm) owing to its ability to generate large quantities of CPDs and also the more structurally distorting 6‐4 photoproduct. Although UV‐C is useful as a laboratory tool, exposure to these wavelengths is generally very low owing to being filtered by stratospheric ozone. We are interested in the more environmentally relevant wavelength range of UV‐B (λ = 280–315 nm) for its role in causing cytotoxicity and mutagenesis. We evaluated these endpoints in both a normal human fibroblast control line and a Xeroderma pigmentosum variant cell line in which the POLH gene contains a truncating point mutation, leading to a nonfunctional polymerase. We demonstrate that UV‐B has similar but less striking effects compared to UV‐C in both its cytotoxic and its mutagenic effects. Analysis of the mutation spectra after a single dose of UV‐B shows that a majority of mutations can be attributed to mutagenic bypass of dipyrimidine sequences. However, we do note additional types of mutations with UV‐B that are not previously reported after UV‐C exposure. We speculate that these differences are attributed to a change in the spectra of photoproduct lesions rather than other lesions caused by oxidative stress. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:375–384, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The emerging role of Nrf2 in dermatotoxicology
Authors: Tan Nguan S , Wahli Walter
Published: February 2014

The nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) is best known for its role in resistance to oxidant stress. In this issue of EMBO Molecular Medicine, Nrf2‐prolonged genetic activation is shown with devastating effects on skin homeostasis. The study provides novel molecular insights into poison‐induced chloracne and metabolizing acquired dioxin‐induced skin hamartomas or MADISH.
Pesticides in Mississippi air and rain: A comparison between 1995 and 2007
Authors: Majewski Michael S. , Coupe Richard H. , Foreman William T. , Capel Paul D.
Published: February 2014

A variety of current-use pesticides were determined in weekly composite air and rain samples collected during the 1995 and 2007 growing seasons in the Mississippi Delta (MS, USA) agricultural region. Similar sampling and analytical methods allowed for direct comparison of results. Decreased overall pesticide use in 2007 relative to 1995 generally resulted in decreased detection frequencies in air and rain; observed concentration ranges were similar between years, however, even though the 1995 sampling site was 500 m from active fields whereas the 2007 sampling site was within 3 m of a field. Mean concentrations of detections were sometimes greater in 2007 than in 1995, but the median values were often lower. Seven compounds in 1995 and 5 in 2007 were detected in ≥50% of both air and rain samples. Atrazine, metolachlor, and propanil were detected in ≥50% of the air and rain samples in both years. Glyphosate and its degradation product, aminomethyl-phosphonic acid (AMPA), were detected in ≥75% of air and rain samples in 2007 but were not measured in 1995. The 1995 seasonal wet depositional flux was dominated by methyl parathion (88%) and was >4.5 times the 2007 flux. Total herbicide flux in 2007 was slightly greater than in 1995 and was dominated by glyphosate. Malathion, methyl parathion, and degradation products made up most of the 2007 nonherbicide flux. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1283–1293. © 2014 SETAC
The disconnect between evidence and practice: a systematic review of person‐centred interventions and training manuals for care home staff working with people with dementia
Authors: Fossey Jane , Masson Sarah , Stafford Jane , Lawrence Vanessa , Corbett Anne , Ballard Clive
Published: February 2014

Objective

The overall objective is to determine the availability of person‐centred intervention and training manuals for dementia care staff with clinical trial evidence of efficacy.

Design

Interventions were identified using a search of electronic databases, augmented by mainstream search engines, reference lists, hand searching for resources and consultation with an expert panel. The specific search for published manuals was complemented by a search for randomised control trials focussing on training and activity‐based interventions for people with dementia in care homes. Manuals were screened for eligibility and rated to assess their quality, relevance and feasibility.

Results

A meta‐analysis of randomised control trials indicated that person‐centred training interventions conferred significant benefit in improving agitation and reducing the use of antipsychotics. Each of the efficacious packages included a sustained period of joint working and supervision with a trained mental health professional in addition to an educational element. However, of the 170 manuals that were identified, 30 met the quality criteria and only four had been evaluated in clinical trials.

Conclusions

Despite the availability of a small number of evidence‐based training manuals, there is a widespread use of person‐centred intervention and training manuals that are not evidence‐based. Clearer guidance is needed to ensure that commissioned training and interventions are based on robust evidence. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mindfulness‐based stress reduction for older adults with worry symptoms and co‐occurring cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Lenze Eric J. , Hickman Steven , Hershey Tamara , Wendleton Leah , Ly Khanh , Dixon David , Doré Peter , Wetherell Julie Loebach
Published: February 2014

Background

Mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) has the potential to reduce worry and improve cognitive functioning.

Objectives

In this treatment development project, we examined MBSR in older adults with worry symptoms and co‐occurring cognitive dysfunction. We examined (i) acceptability of MBSR, (ii) whether MBSR needs to be lengthened providing more repetition, (iii) MBSR's benefits for worry reduction and cognitive improvements, and (iv) continued use of MBSR techniques during follow‐up.

Methods

Two sites (St. Louis and San Diego) enrolled individuals aged 65 years or older with significant anxiety‐related distress plus subjective cognitive dysfunction, into traditional 8‐session MBSR groups and 12‐session groups that had the same content but more repetition of topics and techniques. We examined measures of mindfulness, worry, and a neuropsychological battery focused on memory and executive function before and after the MBSR program, and we followed up participants for 6 months after the completion of MBSR regarding their continued use of its techniques.

Results

Participants (N = 34) showed improvements in worry severity, increases in mindfulness, and improvements in memory as measured by paragraph learning and recall after a delay, all with a large effect size. Most participants continued to use MBSR techniques for 6 months post‐instruction and found them helpful in stressful situations. There was no evidence that the extended 12‐week MBSR produced superior cognitive or clinical outcomes, greater satisfaction, or greater continuation of MBSR techniques than 8‐week MBSR.

Conclusions

These preliminary findings are promising for the further testing and use of MBSR in older adults suffering from clinical worry symptoms and co‐occurring cognitive dysfunction. These are common problems in a broad range of older adults, many of whom have anxiety and mood disorders; therefore, stress reduction intervention for them may have great public health value. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lenalidomide for myelodysplastic syndromes with del(5q): how long should it last?
Authors: Vozella Federico , Latagliata Roberto , Carmosino Ida , Volpicelli Paola , Montagna Chiara , Romano Angela , Roberto Amanda , Finsinger Paola , Mancini Marco , Breccia Massimo , Oliva Esther , Alimena Giuliana
Published: February 2014

Lenalidomide induces in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and del(5q) erythroid and cytogenetic response rates as high as 75% and 50%, respectively. It is still unclear, however, how long lenalidomide treatment should be continued and whether or not the drug could be interrupted. To assess the feasibility of lenalidomide discontinuation, we revised a cohort of 16 low‐risk MDS patients with del(5q) treated at our institute in a phase II multicentric Italian study. Among the 12 responding patients, four discontinued lenalidomide while in complete response. All four patients needed during treatment a permanent lenalidomide reduction from 10 to 5 mg/day because of haematological toxicity (three patients) or grade 3 muscular and bone pain (one patient). At lenalidomide discontinuation after 16, 20, 27 and 20 months from the start, respectively, all four patients were in complete hematologic response and three forth in complete cytogenetic response. Three patients are still in response after 36, 30 and 20 months from lenalidomide discontinuation, respectively: The remaining patient relapsed after 20 months, and she is now receiving a new course of lenalidomide. In conclusion, long‐lasting remissions are achievable in MDS patients with del(5q) in complete response after lenalidomide discontinuation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combination of anti‐angiogenic therapies reduces osteolysis and tumor burden in experimental breast cancer bone metastasis
Authors: Bachelier Richard , Confavreux Cyrille B. , Peyruchaud Olivier , Croset Martine , Goehrig Delphine , van der Pluijm Gabri , Clézardin Philippe
Published: February 2014

The clinical efficacy of anti‐angiogenic monotherapies in metastatic breast cancer is less than originally anticipated, and it is not clear what the response of bone metastasis to anti‐angiogenic therapies is. Here, we examined the impact of neutralizing tumor‐derived vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in animal models of subcutaneous tumor growth and bone metastasis formation. Silencing of VEGF expression (Sh‐VEGF) in osteotropic human MDA‐MB‐231/B02 breast cancer cells led to a substantial growth inhibition of subcutaneous Sh‐VEGF B02 tumor xenografts, as a result of reduced angiogenesis, when compared to that observed with animals bearing mock‐transfected (Sc‐VEGF) B02 tumors. However, there was scant evidence that either the silencing of tumor‐derived VEGF or the use of a VEGF‐neutralizing antibody (bevacizumab) affected B02 breast cancer bone metastasis progression in animals. We also examined the effect of vatalanib (a VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor) in this mouse model of bone metastasis. However, vatalanib failed to inhibit bone metastasis caused by B02 breast cancer cells. In sharp contrast, vatalanib in combination with bevacizumab reduced not only bone destruction but also skeletal tumor growth in animals bearing breast cancer bone metastases, when compared with either agent alone. Thus, our study highlights the importance of targeting both the tumor compartment and the host tissue (i.e., skeleton) to efficiently block the development of bone metastasis. We believe this is a crucially important observation as the clinical benefit of anti‐angiogenic monotherapies in metastatic breast cancer is relatively modest.
The risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis after cancer in U.S. elderly adults: A population‐based prospective study
Authors: Freedman D. Michal , Wu Jincao , Daugherty Sarah E. , Kuncl Ralph W. , Enewold Lindsey R. , Pfeiffer Ruth M.
Published: February 2014

Although epidemiologic studies have examined the risk of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in relation to cancer, none have been large population‐based studies using incident ALS and adjusting for medical surveillance. Addressing those limitations, all first primary cancer cases from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) Program (1992–2005), linked to Medicare claims data were used. Cases were followed from cancer diagnosis until the earliest date of ALS diagnosis, a break in Medicare claims data, death, age 85 or December 31, 2005. A comparison group from a 5% random Medicare sample in the SEER areas who were cancer‐free and censored as above, or until a cancer diagnosis were selected. ALS outcomes were derived from medical claims. The proportional hazards models to estimate ALS hazard ratios (HRs), using age as the time scale, adjusting for sex, race and physician visits, and stratifying the baseline hazard on birth year and SEER registry were used. A total of 303 ALS cases were ascertained in cancer patients (2,154,062 person‐years) compared with 246 ALS cases (2,467,634 person‐years) in the reference population. There was no overall relationship between cancer and ALS (HR = 0.99; 95% CI = 0.81–1.22), nor by gender or race. Except for an elevated ALS risk in the first year after a leukemia diagnosis, the relationship between site‐specific cancers and ALS was null after correcting for multiple comparisons. Having a cancer diagnosis was not associated with an overall risk of incident ALS. The short‐term ALS risk after leukemia may reflect screening or reporting errors.
Cost Management: When Is It Safe to Spend Again?
Authors: Edwards James B.
Published: February 2014

We are still in a period of economic turbulence, and many are asking, “When will it be safe to spend again?” But economic uncertainty happens from time to time, consultant James B. Edwards reminds us. And it will likely happen again in the future. It is called “business cycles,” and costs must be managed straight through these reoccurring swings, regardless of duration. The key is that cutting all costs during a downturn is not always the correct strategy.
Cytoprotective Effect of Eckol Against Oxidative Stress‐Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Involvement of the FoxO3a/AMPK Pathway
Authors: Kim Areum Daseul , Kang Kyoung Ah , Piao Mei Jing , Kim Ki Cheon , Zheng Jian , Yao Cheng Wen , Cha Ji Won , Hyun Chang Lim , Kang Hee Kyoung , Lee Nam Ho , Hyun Jin Won
Published: February 2014

This study investigated the cytoprotective effect of Ecklonia cava‐derived eckol against H2O2‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction in Chang liver cells. While H2O2 augmented levels of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), eckol decreased it. Eckol also attenuated high intracellular Ca2+ levels stimulated by H2O2 and recovered H2O2‐diminished ATP levels and succinate dehydrogenase activity. Eckol time‐dependently increased the expression of manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn SOD), a mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme with cytoprotective effect against oxidative stress. Eckol recovered Mn SOD expression and activity that were decreased by H2O2. Finally, eckol induced Mn SOD through phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and forkhead box O3a (FoxO3a). Specific silencing RNAs (siRNAs) against FoxO3a and AMPK reduced eckol‐stimulated Mn SOD expression, and diethyldithiocarbamate (Mn SOD inhibitor) and siRNA against Mn SOD reduced the cytoprotective effect of eckol against H2O2‐provoked cell death. These results demonstrate that eckol protects cells from mitochondrial oxidative stress by activating AMPK/FoxO3a‐mediated induction of Mn SOD. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1403–1411, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preoperative diagnosis and surgical management for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas
Authors: Hosokawa Isamu , Shimizu Hiroaki , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Kato Atsushi , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Furukawa Katsunori , Takayashiki Tsukasa , Ishihara Takeshi , Yokosuka Osamu , Miyazaki Masaru
Published: February 2014

Background

Preoperative diagnosis of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPN) remains difficult and optimal surgical management for SPN has yet to be fully defined.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was undertaken of all 10 patients (six women, four men) who underwent surgery for SPN between 2001 and 2013.

Results

Mean age was 26 years (range, 16–33 years) for women, and 50 years (range, 35–76 years) for men. Although large SPN showed typical imaging findings, small SPN (≤3.0 cm) appears as almost entirely solid tumors. Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) was performed in six patients with atypical findings of SPN for differentiation from other pancreatic neoplasms. Definitive preoperative cytological diagnosis was achieved in all patients who underwent EUS‐FNA. All 10 patients underwent surgical exploration. One patient with portal vein invasion and multiple lung metastases underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy combined with portal vein resection and reconstruction, followed by two pulmonary resections. This patient remains alive as of 34 months after the initial operation.

Conclusions

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration is useful for definitive preoperative diagnosis of SPN. As long‐term survival after surgical resection can be achieved even in patients with locally advanced and metastatic SPN, aggressive surgical resection should be performed.
Periprocedural management of antithrombotic therapy in hospitalized patients
Authors: Feinbloom David
Published: February 2014

The management of antithrombotic medications in patients requiring invasive procedures is a common problem in hospital medicine, for which there is limited evidence to guide clinical decision making. Existing guidelines do not address many hospital‐based procedures and have not kept pace with the introduction of newer antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications. This article provides a conceptual framework for the periprocedural management of antithrombotic therapy, with a focus on the procedures that hospitalists are most likely to perform and the pharmacology of the common and newer antithrombotic medications. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:337–346. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
The journey and Journal get better every year
Authors: Mitchell Jacque L.
Published: February 2014

As I enter into my presidency, I have been reflecting on the past and when I first learned of ASHRM and everything the society offered. I think of all the past presidents and how much I admired their knowledge and dedication to the profession of healthcare risk management.
Facile One‐Pot Synthesis of New Functional Polymers through Multicomponent Systems
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Fu Changkui , Wei Yen , Tao Lei
Published: February 2014

The synthesis of polymers with various functional groups has always been the core of polymer chemistry. Traditionally, there are two approaches to prepare such polymers: i) preparing functional monomers first and then conducting polymerization to get target functional polymers; and ii) post‐modification of a precursor polymer. Both methods unavoidably involve separation and purification of intermediate products, which is laborious and time‐consuming. A one‐pot synthesis strategy, which combines monomer preparation and controlled polymerization in just one reactor to generate well‐defined polymers efficiently, is thus proposed. Recent advances in the one‐pot synthesis of multifunctional polymers through a multicomponent system are provided in this article.

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Comparison of 1H–19F two‐dimensional NMR scalar coupling correlation pulse sequences
Authors: Marchione Alexander A. , Dooley Rebecca J. , Conklin Breanna
Published: February 2014

The effectiveness of hetero‐COSY, HETCOR, HMQC, and HSQC two‐dimensional NMR pulse sequences for detection of 19F–1H correlations by scalar coupling was evaluated on monofluorinated and polyfluorinated test compounds. All four of these sequences were effective in observing 1H–19F correlations, using either 19F or 1H as the observe nucleus. All four sequences were amenable, to some degree, to adjustment to observe larger or smaller couplings preferentially. A 1/2J echo filter was effectively applied to remove artifacts from 2JFF strong coupling. The HETCOR experiments afforded the best overall combination of sensitivity, resolution and selectivity for JHF. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hexagonal undersampling for faster MRI near metallic implants
Authors: Sveinsson Bragi , Worters Pauline W. , Gold Garry E. , Hargreaves Brian A.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Slice encoding for metal artifact correction acquires a three‐dimensional image of each excited slice with view‐angle tilting to reduce slice and readout direction artifacts respectively, but requires additional imaging time. The purpose of this study was to provide a technique for faster imaging around metallic implants by undersampling k‐space.

Methods

Assuming that areas of slice distortion are localized, hexagonal sampling can reduce imaging time by 50% compared with conventional scans. This work demonstrates this technique by comparisons of fully sampled images with undersampled images, either from simulations from fully acquired data or from data actually undersampled during acquisition, in patients and phantoms. Hexagonal sampling is also shown to be compatible with parallel imaging and partial Fourier acquisitions. Image quality was evaluated using a structural similarity (SSIM) index.

Results

Images acquired with hexagonal undersampling had no visible difference in artifact suppression from fully sampled images. The SSIM index indicated high similarity to fully sampled images in all cases.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates the ability to reduce scan time by undersampling without compromising image quality. Magn Reson Med 73:662–668, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of poly(AA‐co‐AM) superabsorbent composites by reinforcement of halloysite nanotubes
Authors: Wang Yanfei , Zhang Xiang , Wei Haodong , Zhang Bing , Xiang Xu , Chen Rongfeng
Published: February 2014

A novel poly(acrylic acid‐co‐acrylamide)/halloysite nanotubes [PAA‐AM/HNTs] superabsorbent composite was synthesized by free radical polymerization with using HNTs as an inorganic additive. The composite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, and thermogravimetric analysis. The results revealed that HNTs and PAA‐AM were combined well together to form a porous structure with a pore size of about 10 μm, and HNTs were uniformly distributed in the composite. The thermal stability was improved by adding HNTs in the composite. The influences of contents of initiator and halloysite, neutralization degree of AA, and molar ratio of AM to AA on water absorbency were investigated. The water absorbency and the water retention capacity were improved after adding HNTs into PAA‐AM. The composite containing 10% HNTs had the highest water absorbency of 1276 g/g in distilled water. Moreover, PAA‐AM/HNTs composite also had a high swelling rate within 60 min and could maintain 78% initial swelling capability after five reswelled test. The substantial enhancement of swelling properties enables PAA‐AM/HNTs suitable for numerous practical applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:229–236, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Influence of the injection molding process on the mechanical properties of (PA6/GF/MMT) nanocomposite
Authors: Adriano Damiani Renato , Fiori Jair , Silvano Josiane da Rocha , Neto Almir Barros da Silva Santos , de Araújo Pedro Henrique Hermes , Riella Humberto Gracher , Fiori Márcio Antônio
Published: February 2014

This work describes the first part of a series of studies on the effect of injection molding conditions on the mechanical properties of polyamide 6/glass fiber/montmorillonite (PA6/GF/MMT) composites, wherein the effect of the injection molding mass temperature on the mechanical properties of the composite is investigated. The results demonstrate that composites processed at lower mass temperatures exhibited higher tensile strength and flexural strength. These findings are explained by the fact that the use of different mass temperatures leads to PA6 matrices with different degrees of crystallinity. In addition, changes in the mass temperature affect the fiber–matrix adhesion of the composite and the intercalation between the matrix and the various components in the nanocomposite. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:237–244, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers