bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlling Solution‐Phase Polymer Aggregation with Molecular Weight and Solvent Additives to Optimize Polymer‐Fullerene Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Bartelt Jonathan A. , Douglas Jessica D. , Mateker William R. , Labban Abdulrahman El , Tassone Christopher J. , Toney Michael F. , Fréchet Jean M. J. , Beaujuge Pierre M. , McGehee Michael D.
Published: March 2014

The bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cell performance of many polymers depends on the polymer molecular weight (Mn) and the solvent additive(s) used for solution processing. However, the mechanism that causes these dependencies is not well understood. This work determines howMnand solvent additives affect the performance of BHJ solar cells made with the polymer poly(di(2‐ethylhexyloxy)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐co‐octylthieno[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐4,6‐dione) (PBDTTPD). LowMnPBDTTPD devices have exceedingly large fullerene‐rich domains, which cause extensive charge‐carrier recombination. Increasing theMnof PBDTTPD decreases the size of these domains and significantly improves device performance. PBDTTPD aggregation in solution affects the size of the fullerene‐rich domains and this effect is linked to the dependency of PBDTTPD solubility onMn. Due to its poor solubility highMnPBDTTPD quickly forms a fibrillar polymer network during spin‐casting and this network acts as a template that prevents large‐scale phase separation. Furthermore, processing lowMnPBDTTPD devices with a solvent additive improves device performance by inducing polymer aggregation in solution and preventing large fullerene‐rich domains from forming. These findings highlight that polymer aggregation in solution plays a significant role in determining the morphology and performance of BHJ solar cells.
Disassembly Kinetics of Quinone‐Methide‐Based Self‐Immolative Spacers that Contain Aromatic Nitrogen Heterocycles
Authors: Alouane Ahmed , Labruère Raphaël , Silvestre Katherine J. , Le Saux Thomas , Schmidt Frédéric , Jullien Ludovic
Published: March 2014

We prepared several pyridine‐ and pyrimidine‐based self‐immolative spacer groups to evaluate the significance of the resonance energy of the spacer aromatic ring on the kinetics of 1,4‐ and 1,6‐elimination reactions, which govern spacer disassembly. Subsequently, we relied on a photoactivation procedure to accurately analyze the disassembly kinetics. Beyond providing new results that are relevant for deriving quantitative structure–property relationships, herein, we demonstrate that pH value can be used as an efficient parameter to finely control the disassembly time of a self‐immolative spacer after an initial activation.
An in vitro high‐throughput assay for screening reproductive and toxic effects of anticancer compounds
Authors: Edwards Vicki , Benkendorff Kirsten , Young Fiona
Published: March 2014

An in vitro assay was developed that simultaneously tested the effects of anticancer drug candidates on cytotoxicity, hormone synthesis, and gonadotrophin responsiveness using the choriocarcinoma JAr cell line. JAr culture conditions were optimized and then cells were exposed to a marine mollusc extract in the presence and absence of hCG. The intra‐ and interassay coefficients of variation of the optimized 1 H thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide assay were 11.3% and 10.9%, respectively. hCG (1,000 mIU/mL) increased progesterone (P4) synthesis after 24 H (P < 0.05). The mollusc extract significantly decreased cell viability, with the IC50 affected by incubation time, but not hCG. P4 synthesis was inhibited at low concentrations of the anticancer extract, but stimulated at the highest concentration, and complex interactions of P4 were also found with hCG. In conclusion, the optimized assay is useful to characterize the effects of novel drugs on cytotoxicity, basal, and gonadotrophin‐stimulated P4 synthesis in vitro, and can be used to inform subsequent in vivo studies.
Prevalence of treated and untreated groin hernia in eastern Uganda
Authors: Löfgren J , Makumbi F , Galiwango E , Nordin P , Ibingira C , Forsberg B C , Wladis A
Published: March 2014

Background

Hernia repair is the most commonly performed general surgical procedure worldwide. The prevalence is poorly described in many areas, and access to surgery may not be met in low- and middle-income countries. The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of groin hernia and the surgical repair rate in a defined sub-Saharan region of Africa.

Methods

A two-part study on hernia prevalence was carried out in eastern Uganda. The first was a population-based prevalence study with 900 randomly selected men in a Health and Demographic Surveillance Site. The second was a prospective facility-based study of all surgical procedures performed in the two hospitals providing surgical care in the region.

Results

The overall prevalence of groin hernia (current hernia or scar after groin hernia surgery) in men was 9·4 per cent. Less than one-third of men with a hernia had been operated on. More than half had no pain symptoms. The youngest age group had an overall prevalence of 2·4 per cent, which increased to 7·9 per cent in the age range 35–54 years, and to 37 per cent among those aged 55 years and above. The groin hernia surgery rate at the hospitals investigated was 17 per 100 000 population per year, which corresponds to a surgical correction rate of less than 1 per cent per year. Based on hospital records, a considerable number of patients having surgery for groin hernia were women (20 of 84 patients, 24 per cent).

Conclusion

Groin hernia is a common condition in men in this east Ugandan cohort and the annual surgical correction rate is low. Investment is needed to increase surgical capacity in this healthcare system.
Randomized multicentre trial of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRIversusconventional MRI or CT in the staging of colorectal cancer liver metastases
Authors: Zech C J , Korpraphong P , Huppertz A , Denecke T , Kim M-J , Tanomkiat W , Jonas E , Ba-Ssalamah A
Published: March 2014

Background

This multicentre international randomized trial compared the impact of gadoxetic acid-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MRI with extracellular contrast medium (ECCM-MRI) and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT) as a first-line imaging method in patients with suspected colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM).

Methods

Between October 2008 and September 2010, patients with suspected CRCLM were randomized to one of the three imaging modalities. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients for whom further imaging after initial imaging was required for a confident diagnosis. Secondary variables included confidence in the therapeutic decision, intraoperative deviations from the initial imaging-based surgical plan as a result of additional operative findings, and diagnostic efficacy of the imaging modalities versus intraoperative and pathological extent of the disease.

Results

A total of 360 patients were enrolled. Efficacy was analysed in 342 patients (118, 112 and 112 with gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI, ECCM-MRI and CE-CT respectively as the initial imaging procedure). Further imaging was required in 0 of 118, 19 (17·0 per cent) of 112 and 44 (39·3 per cent) of 112 patients respectively (P < 0·001). Diagnostic confidence was high or very high in 98·3 per cent of patients for gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI, 85·7 per cent for ECCM-MRI and 65·2 per cent for CE-CT. Surgical plans were changed during surgery in 28, 32 and 47 per cent of patients in the respective groups.

Conclusion

The diagnostic performance of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI was better than that of CE-CT and ECCM-MRI as the initial imaging modality. No further imaging was needed in the gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI group and comparison of diagnostic efficacy parameters demonstrated the diagnostic superiority of gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI. Registration number: NCT00764621(http://clinicaltrials.gov); EudraCT number: 2008-000583-16 (https://eudract.ema.europa.eu/).
Intramolecular Reactions of Metal Carbenoids with Allylic Ethers: Is a Free Ylide Involved in Every Case?
Authors: Clark J. Stephen , Hansen K. Emelie
Published: March 2014

Rhodium‐, copper‐ and iridium‐catalyzed reactions of the13C‐labelled diazo carbonyl substrates18*and19*were performed. Results obtained from copper‐ and iridium‐catalyzed reactions of the13C‐labelled α‐diazo β‐keto ester19*indicate that either or both of these reactions do not proceed via a free oxonium ylide but instead follow a competing non‐ylide route that delivers apparent [2,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement products. In the case of the iridium‐catalyzed reaction of α‐diazo β‐keto ester19*, results obtained from crossover experiments indicate that the initially formed metal‐bound ylide dissociates to give an iridium enolate and an allyl cation, which recombine to form the CC bond.
Structural, Magnetic, and Computational Correlations of Some Imidazolo‐Fused 1,2,4‐Benzotriazinyl Radicals
Authors: Constantinides Christos P. , Berezin Andrey A. , Manoli Maria , Leitus Gregory M. , Zissimou Georgia A. , Bendikov Michael , Rawson Jeremy M. , Koutentis Panayiotis A.
Published: March 2014

1,3,7,8‐Tetraphenyl‐4,8‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazolo[4,5g][1,2,4]benzotriazin‐4‐yl (5), 8‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐1,3,7‐triphenyl‐4,8‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazolo[4,5g][1,2,4]benzotriazin‐4‐yl (6), and 8‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐1,3,7‐triphenyl‐4,8‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazolo[4,5g][1,2,4]benzotriazin‐4‐yl (7) were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction crystallography, variable‐temperature magnetic susceptibility studies, and DFT calculations. Radicals 5–7 pack in 1 D π stacks made of radical pairs with alternate short and long interplanar distances. The magnetic susceptibility (χ vs. T) of radicals 5 and 6 exhibit broad maxima at (50±2) and (50±4) K, respectively, and are interpreted in terms of an alternating antiferromagnetic Heisenberg linear chain model with average exchange‐interaction values of J=−31.3 and −35.4 cm−1 (gsolid=2.0030 and 2.0028) and an alternation parameter a=0.15 and 0.38 for 5 and 6, respectively. However, radical 7 forms 1 D columns of radical pairs with alternating distances; one of the interplanar distances is significantly longer than the other, which decreases the magnetic dimensionality and leads to discrete dimers with a ferromagnetic exchange interaction between the radicals (2J=23.6 cm−1, 2zJ′=−2.8 cm−1, gsolid=2.0028). Magnetic exchange‐coupling interactions in 1,2,4‐benzotriazinyl radicals are sensitive to the degree of slippage and inter‐radical separation, and such subtle changes in structure alter the fine balance between ferro‐ and antiferromagnetic interactions.
Supramolecular Assemblies of Nucleoside Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes: Synthesis, Film Preparation, and Properties
Authors: Micoli Alessandra , Turco Antonio , Araujo‐Palomo Elsie , Encinas Armando , Quintana Mildred , Prato Maurizio
Published: March 2014

Nucleoside‐functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (N‐MWCNTs) were synthesized and characterized. A self‐organization process using hydrogen bonding interactions was then used for the fabrication of self‐assembled N‐MWCNTs films free of stabilizing agents, polymers, or surfactants. Membranes were produced by using a simple water‐dispersion‐based vacuum‐filtration method. Hydrogen‐bond recognition was confirmed by analysis with IR spectroscopy and TEM images. Restoration of the electronic conduction properties in the N‐MWCNTs membranes was performed by removing the organic portion by thermal treatment under an argon atmosphere to give d‐N‐MWCNTs. Electrical conductivity and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) measurements confirmed the efficiency of the annealing process. Finally, oxidative biodegradation of the films N‐MWCNTs and d‐N‐MWCNTs was performed by using horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and low concentrations of H2O2. Our results confirm that functional groups play an important role in the biodegradation of CNT by HRP: N‐MWCNTs films were completely biodegraded, whereas for d‐N‐MWCNTs films no degradation was observed, showing that the pristine CNT undergoes minimal enzyme‐catalyzed oxidation This novel methodology offers a straightforward supramolecular strategy for the construction of conductive and biodegradable carbon nanotube films.
Biomimetic Artificial Inorganic Enzyme‐Free Self‐Propelled Microfish Robot for Selective Detection of Pb2+ in Water
Authors: Moo James Guo Sheng , Wang Hong , Zhao Guanjia , Pumera Martin
Published: March 2014

The availability of drinking water is of utmost importance for the world population. Anthropogenic pollutants of water, such as heavy‐metal ions, are major problems in water contamination. The toxicity assays used range from cell assays to animal tests. Herein, we replace biological toxicity assays, which use higher organisms, with artificial inorganic self‐propelled microtubular robots. The viability and activity of these robots are negatively influenced by heavy metals, such as Pb2+, in a similar manner to that of live fish models. This allows the establishment of a lethal dose (LD50) of heavy metal for artificial inorganic microfish robots. The self‐propelled microfish robots show specific response to Pb2+ compared to other heavy metals, such as Cd2+, and can be used for selective determination of Pb2+ in water. It is a first step towards replacing the biological toxicity assays with biomimetic inorganic autonomous robotic systems.
Catalyst‐Free Photoredox Addition–Cyclisations: Exploitation of Natural Synergy between Aryl Acetic Acids and Maleimide
Authors: Manley David W. , Mills Andrew , O'Rourke Christopher , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Walton John C.
Published: March 2014

Suitably functionalised carboxylic acids undergo a previously unknown photoredox reaction when irradiated with UVA in the presence of maleimide. Maleimide was found to synergistically act as a radical generating photoxidant and as a radical acceptor, negating the need for an extrinsic photoredox catalyst. Modest to excellent yields of the product chromenopyrroledione, thiochromenopyrroledione and pyrroloquinolinedione derivatives were obtained in thirteen preparative photolyses. In situ NMR spectroscopy was used to study each reaction. Reactant decay and product build‐up were monitored, enabling reaction profiles to be plotted. A plausible mechanism, whereby photo‐excited maleimide acts as an oxidant to generate a radical ion pair, has been postulated and is supported by UV/Vis. spectroscopy and DFT computations. The radical‐cation reactive intermediates were also characterised in solution by EPR spectroscopy.
Comparison of the Mass Transfer of Pendant and Levitated Droplets in CO2
Authors: Borosa Danijel , Brinkmann Jonas , Kareth Sabine , Kilzer Andreas , Petermann Marcus
Published: March 2014

In einem akustischen Hochdruck‐Levitator können Flüssigkeiten berührungslos untersucht werden. Hier wurden akustisch levitierte Wassertropfen und hängende Wassertropfen bzgl. des Stofftransportkoeffizienten in einer ruhenden CO2‐Atmosphäre unter erhöhten Drücken verglichen. Anhand der Tropfengeometrie bzw. der zeitlichen Abnahme des Tropfenvolumens konnte der Stoffübergangskoeffizient von Wasser in Kohlenstoffdioxid zu jedem Zeitpunkt berechnet werden. Zudem wurden offene Fragen bezüglich möglicher Unterschiede zwischen hängenden und akustisch levitierten Tropfen erörtert.
Fractional Flow Reserve: An Updated Review
Authors: Elgendy Islam Y. , Conti C. Richard , Bavry Anthony A.
Published: March 2014

Revascularization of ischemia‐producing coronary lesions is widely used in the management of coronary artery disease. However, some coronary lesions appear significant on the conventional angiogram when they are truly non–flow limiting. For this reason, it is becoming increasingly important to determine the coronary physiology. Fractional flow reserve (FFR) has emerged as a useful tool to determine the lesions that require revascularization. Measurement of FFR during invasive coronary angiography now has a class IA indication from the European Society of Cardiology for identifying hemodynamically significant coronary lesions when noninvasive evidence of myocardial ischemia is unavailable. Current data on FFR can be broadly classified into studies that compare the diagnostic accuracy of FFR measurement compared with other noninvasive modalities and studies that test treatment strategies of patients with intermediate coronary stenoses using a threshold value for FFR and that have clinical outcomes as endpoints. In this review, we will discuss the concept of FFR, current evidence supporting its usage, and future perspectives.
Time‐Trend Analysis on the Framingham Risk Score and Prevalence of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Without Prior History of Coronary Vascular Disease Over the Last 17 Years: A Study From the Mayo Clinic PCI Registry
Authors: Lee Moo‐Sik , Flammer Andreas J. , Li Jing , Lennon Ryan J. , Singh Mandeep , Holmes David R. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Lerman Amir
Published: March 2014

Background

There is a paucity of data on the temporal trends of cardiovascular risk factors in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We investigated the secular trends of risk profiles of patients undergoing PCI without prior history of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Hypothesis

CVD risk factors are changed over time.

Methods

This time‐trend analysis from 1994 to 2010 was performed within the Mayo Clinic PCI Registry. Outcome measures were prevalence of CVD risk factors, including the Framingham risk score (FRS), at the time of admission for PCI.

Results

During this period, 12,055 patients without a history of CVD (mean age, 65.0 ± 12.4 years, 67% male) underwent PCI at the Mayo Clinic. Age distribution slightly shifted toward older age (P for trend <0.05), but sex did not change over time. Despite a higher prevalence of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus over time, actual blood pressure and lipid profiles improved (P for trend <0.001). Over time, FRS and 10‐year CVD risk improved significantly (7.3 ± 3.2 to 6.5 ± 3.3, P for trend <0.001; and 11.0 to 9.0, P for trend <0.001, respectively). Body mass index, not included in the FRS, increased significantly (29.0 ± 5.2 to 30.1 ± 6.2 kg/m2, P for trend <0.001), whereas smoking prevalence did not change.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrates that although traditional FRS and its associated predicted 10‐year cardiovascular risk declined over time, the prevalence of risk factors increased in patients undergoing PCI. The study suggests the need for a new risk‐factor assessment in this patient population.
Quality of life changes during the pre‐ to postdiagnosis period and treatment‐related recovery time in older women with breast cancer
Authors: Stover Angela M. , Mayer Deborah K. , Muss Hyman , Wheeler Stephanie B. , Lyons Jessica C. , Reeve Bryce B.
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Health care providers have little population‐based evidence about health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) changes, from the pre‐ to postdiagnosis period, and treatment‐related recovery time for women aged 65 years and older diagnosed with breast cancer.

METHODS

Older women with and without breast cancer completed self‐reports of HRQOL at baseline and 2 years later as part of annual Medicare Health Outcomes Surveys (MHOS). MHOS was linked to Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries, which were used to categorize women with breast cancer by treatment type (breast‐conserving surgery, breast‐conserving surgery plus radiation, mastectomy) and time since diagnosis at follow‐up. Each cancer case diagnosed in 1998 through 2007 (N = 542) was matched to 5 women without cancer (N = 2710) using propensity score matching. Analysis of covariance models examined changes in HRQOL, adjusting for demographics and initial functioning.

RESULTS

Older women within 6 months of diagnosis had greater declines than women without cancer in SF‐36 Physical (−5.8 vs −1.8) and Mental (−3.6 vs −0.7) Component Summary scores, General Health (−12.3 vs −4.6), Vitality (−11.0 vs −2.2), Bodily Pain (−8.5 vs −2.1), Social Functioning (−15.1 vs −3.3), Role‐Physical (−26.5 vs −3.9), and Role‐Emotional (−13.1 vs −3.1) scores (all P < .05). By approximately 1 year, women with and without breast cancer had similar HRQOL. Comparable declines in Physical Component Summary and Role‐Physical occurred across treatment types.

CONCLUSIONS

Women aged 65 years and older diagnosed with breast cancer should be counseled that survivors within 6 months of diagnosis are vulnerable to HRQOL declines, compared to women without breast cancer, but that decrements generally wane after 12 months. Cancer 2014;120:1881–1889. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
A Novel pH/Light‐Triggered Surface for DNA Adsorption and Release
Authors: Birlik Demirel Gökçen
Published: March 2014

A simple strategy for the immobilization of Cy3‐labeled single strand DNA (Cy3‐ssDNA) on a Si(001) surface and its release under control of both light and pH stimuli is presented. In order to prepare a dual pH/light‐triggered surface, positively chargeable azobenzene molecules are self‐assembled on the Si(001) surface. The surface wettability of this substrate can be changed under influence of both light and pH conditions. The substrates can be positively charged under mildly acidic conditions. The pH‐sensitive behavior of the film allows binding of Cy3‐ssDNA on the functionalized Si(001) surface through eﬀective electrostatic interactions with the negatively charged polynucleotide backbone. Moreover, irradiation of the film with UVA light induces trans–cis isomerization of the azobenzene units on the surface. As a result, the binding aﬃnity for DNA decreases due to the changing surface hydrophilicity. In order to understand and control the reversible photoswitchable mechanism of this surface, water contact angles are measured after UVA and visible light irradiation. The release of DNA from a dual pH/light‐sensitive sample is performed using fluorescence microscopy. The results show that irradiation of the film with UVA light induces trans–cis isomerization of the photoresponsive azobenzene units; this leads to significant changes in the surface hydrophilicity and reduces the binding affinity for DNA.
Orderings based on the banks set: Some new scoring methods for multicriteria decision making
Authors: Moser Scott
Published: March 2014

This article introduces new methods for ranking alternatives in multicriteria decision making situations. Each is based on the normative position that the strength of an alternative is inversely related to the number of alternatives that could prevent it from being chosen. The scores discriminate among elements of the Banks set (Banks, Soc Choice Welfare, 1985, 1, 295–306). The new scoring methods are compared to traditional scoring methods and related to the amount of intransitivity (specifically, the size of the top‐cycle) of aggregated preference. The new scores are shown to measure important aspects of alternatives not captured by extant scoring methods and are illustrated in collective choice settings. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 20: 63–76, 2015
Construction of High‐Energy‐Density Supercapacitors from Pine‐Cone‐Derived High‐Surface‐Area Carbons
Authors: Karthikeyan Kaliyappan , Amaresh Samuthirapandiyan , Lee Sol Nip , Sun Xueliang , Aravindan Vanchiappan , Lee Young‐Gi , Lee Yun Sung
Published: March 2014

Very high surface area activated carbons (AC) are synthesized from pine cone petals by a chemical activation process and subsequently evaluated as an electrode material for supercapacitor applications in a nonaqueous medium. The maximum specific surface area of ∼3950 m2 g−1 is noted for the material treated with a 1:5 ratio of KOH to pine cone petals (PCC5), which is much higher than that reported for carbonaceous materials derived from various other biomass precursors. A symmetric supercapacitor is fabricated with PCC5 electrodes, and the results showed enhanced supercapacitive behavior with the highest energy density of ∼61 Wh kg−1. Furthermore, outstanding cycling ability is evidenced for such a configuration, and ∼90 % of the initial specific capacitance after 20 000 cycles under harsh conditions was observed. This result revealed that the pine‐cone‐derived high‐surface‐area AC can be used effectively as a promising electrode material to construct high‐energy‐density supercapacitors.
Antibiotics for acute otitis media in children—are they necessary?
Authors: Fu Linda Y.
Published: March 2014

Eco‐paediatrics is an occasional feature in Evidence‐Based Child Health: A Cochrane Review Journal. Our goal is to contribute to the worldwide discussion on reducing waste in health care. In each instalment, we will select a recent Cochrane review highlighting a practice, still in use, which the available evidence tells us should be discontinued.
Cochrane in context: Schedules for home visits in the early postpartum period
Authors: Naohiro Yonemoto , Dowswell Therese , Shuko Nagai , Rintaro Mori
Published: March 2014

Cochrane Review: Schedules for home visits in the early postpartum period Yonemoto N, Dowswell T, Nagai S, Mori R. Schedules for home visits in the early post‐partum period. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 7. Art. No.: CD009326. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD009326.pub2.

This companion piece to the review, “Schedules for home visits in the early post‐partum period,” contains the following pieces:

The abstract of the review

A commentary from one or more of the review authors, explaining why the review team felt the review was an important one to produce

A review of clinical practice guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), United Kingdom
Cochrane in context: Rifamycins compared to isoniazid for preventing tuberculosis in HIV‐negative people at risk of active TB
Authors: Sharma Surendra K. , Kadhiravan Tamilarasu , Tharyan Prathap
Published: March 2014

Cochrane Review: Rifamycins (rifampicin, rifabutin, and rifapentine) compared to isoniazid for preventing tuberculosis in HIV‐negative people at risk of active TB Sharma SK, Sharma A, Kadhiravan T, Tharyan P. Rifamycins (rifampicin, rifabutin and rifapentine) compared to isoniazid for preventing tuberculosis in HIV‐negative people at risk of active TB. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 7. Art. No.: CD007545. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007545.pub2.

This companion piece to the review, “Rifamycins (rifampicin, rifabutin, and rifapentine) compared to isoniazid for preventing tuberculosis in HIV‐negative people at risk of active TB,” contains the following pieces:

The abstract of the review

A commentary from one or more of the review authors, explaining why the review team felt the review was an important one to produce

A review of clinical practice guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), United Kingdom

Some other recently published references on this topic
A statistical simulation model for field testing of non‐target organisms in environmental risk assessment of genetically modified plants
Authors: Goedhart Paul W. , van der Voet Hilko , Baldacchino Ferdinando , Arpaia Salvatore
Published: March 2014

Genetic modification of plants may result in unintended effects causing potentially adverse effects on the environment. A comparative safety assessment is therefore required by authorities, such as the European Food Safety Authority, in which the genetically modified plant is compared with its conventional counterpart. Part of the environmental risk assessment is a comparative field experiment in which the effect on non‐target organisms is compared. Statistical analysis of such trials come in two flavors: difference testing and equivalence testing. It is important to know the statistical properties of these, for example, the power to detect environmental change of a given magnitude, before the start of an experiment. Such prospective power analysis can best be studied by means of a statistical simulation model. This paper describes a general framework for simulating data typically encountered in environmental risk assessment of genetically modified plants. The simulation model, available as Supplementary Material, can be used to generate count data having different statistical distributions possibly with excess‐zeros. In addition the model employs completely randomized or randomized block experiments, can be used to simulate single or multiple trials across environments, enables genotype by environment interaction by adding random variety effects, and finally includes repeated measures in time following a constant, linear or quadratic pattern in time possibly with some form of autocorrelation. The model also allows to add a set of reference varieties to the GM plants and its comparator to assess the natural variation which can then be used to set limits of concern for equivalence testing. The different count distributions are described in some detail and some examples of how to use the simulation model to study various aspects, including a prospective power analysis, are provided.
Changes in ground beetle assemblages above and below the treeline of the Dolomites after almost 30 years (1980/2009)
Authors: Pizzolotto Roberto , Gobbi Mauro , Brandmayr Pietro
Published: March 2014

Very little is known about the changes of ground beetle assemblages in the last few decades in the Alps, and different responses to climate change of animal populations living above and below the treeline have not been estimated yet. This study focuses on an altitudinal habitat sequence from subalpine spruce forest to alpine grassland in a low disturbance area of the southeastern Dolomites in Italy, the Paneveggio Regional Park. We compared the ground beetle (Carabidae) populations sampled in 1980 in six stands below and above the treeline (1650–2250 m a.s.l.) with those sampled in the same sites almost 30 years later (2008/9). Quantitative data (species richness and abundance) have been compared by means of several diversity indexes and with a new index, the Index of Rank‐abundance Change (IRC). Our work shows that species richness and abundance have changed after almost 30 years as a consequence of local extinctions, uphill increment of abundance and uphill shift of distribution range. The overall species number dropped from 36 to 27, while in the sites above the treeline, species richness and abundance changed more than in the forest sites. Two microtherm characteristic species of the pioneer cushion grass mats, Nebria germari and Trechus dolomitanus, became extinct or showed strong abundance reduction. In Nardetum pastures, several hygrophilic species disappeared, and xerophilic zoophytophagous elements raised their population density. In forest ecosystems, the precipitation reduction caused deep soil texture and watering changes, driving a transformation from Sphagnum‐rich (peaty) to humus‐rich soil, and as a consequence, soil invertebrate biomass strongly increased and thermophilic carabids enriched the species structure. In three decades, Carabid assemblages changed consistently with the hypothesis that climate change is one of the main factors triggering natural environment modifications. Furthermore, the level of human disturbance could enhance the sensitivity of mountain ecosystems to climate change.
High genetic diversity in a small population: the case of Chilean blue whales
Authors: Torres‐Florez Juan P. , Hucke‐Gaete Rodrigo , Rosenbaum Howard , Figueroa Christian C.
Published: March 2014

It is generally assumed that species with low population sizes have lower genetic diversities than larger populations and vice versa. However, this would not be the case for long‐lived species with long generation times, and which populations have declined due to anthropogenic effects, such as the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus). This species was intensively decimated globally to near extinction during the 20th century. Along the Chilean coast, it is estimated that at least 4288 blue whales were hunted from an apparently pre‐exploitation population size (k) of a maximum of 6200 individuals (Southeastern Pacific). Thus, here, we describe the mtDNA (control region) and nDNA (microsatellites) diversities of the Chilean blue whale aggregation site in order to verify the expectation of low genetic diversity in small populations. We then compare our findings with other blue whale aggregations in the Southern Hemisphere. Interestingly, although the estimated population size is small compared with the pre‐whaling era, there is still considerable genetic diversity, even after the population crash, both in mitochondrial (N = 46) and nuclear (N = 52) markers (Hd = 0.890 and Ho = 0.692, respectively). Our results suggest that this diversity could be a consequence of the long generation times and the relatively short period of time elapsed since the end of whaling, which has been observed in other heavily‐exploited whale populations. The genetic variability of blue whales on their southern Chile feeding grounds was similar to that found in other Southern Hemisphere blue whale feeding grounds. Our phylogenetic analysis of mtDNA haplotypes does not show extensive differentiation of populations among Southern Hemisphere blue whale feeding grounds. The present study suggests that although levels of genetic diversity are frequently used as estimators of population health, these parameters depend on the biology of the species and should be taken into account in a monitoring framework study to obtain a more complete picture of the conservation status of a population.
Fatty acid composition, lipid oxidation, and fishy odour development in seabass (Lates calcarifer) skin during iced storage
Authors: Sae‐leaw Thanasak , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: March 2014

Changes in fatty acid profile, lipid hydrolysis and oxidation, development of fishy odour and volatile compounds in seabass (Lates calcarifer) skin during 18 days of iced storage were investigated. Peroxide value (PV) increased up to Day 6 and subsequently decreased up to 18 days (p < 0.05). The continuous increases in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values, free fatty acid (FFA) content and lipoxygenase (LOX) activity were noticeable with increasing storage time (p < 0.05). Formation of FFA and hydroperoxide was confirmed by the changes in amplitude of peak at 3600–3200/cm and 1711/cm in Fourier transform IR spectra, respectively. With increasing storage time, the increase in fishy odour intensity was observed along with the formation of volatiles. Hexanal and nonanal constituted as the dominant volatile aldehydes in skin stored in ice for an extended time. Therefore, the delay of skin processing must be avoided to prevent the formation of undesirable fishy odour in skin and its products.

Practical applications: Seabass skin is one of the potential raw materials for production of collagen, gelatin or other derived products. Iced storage of seabass skin affected fatty acid composition, lipid hydrolysis and oxidation, development of fishy odour and volatile compounds. Therefore, skin from fresh fish should be used and the delay of further processing should be avoided to prevent undesirable fishy odour in skin and products made therefrom.

During iced storage, seabass skin underwent lipid oxidation with the coincidental release or activation of LOX. Development of fishy odour took place along with the formation of volatile compounds.
The effect of dietary antioxidants on iron‐mediated lipid peroxidation in marine emulsions studied by measurement of dissolved oxygen consumption
Authors: Kristinova Vera , Aaneby Jorunn , Mozuraityte Revilija , Storrø Ivar , Rustad Turid
Published: March 2014

Addition of antioxidants into food containing fish omega‐3 PUFA is an approach to protect the healthy omega‐3 lipids from oxidation and to increase the oxidative stability of the food. Low molecular weight (LMW) iron (Fe2+/Fe3+) is a ubiquitous component in emulsified food and a mediator of lipid peroxidation even at trace levels. In this work, the effects of EDTA, citric acid, caffeic acid, propyl gallate, α‐tocopherol, ascorbic acid, β‐carotene, and astaxanthin on iron‐mediated lipid peroxidation in 10% w/v herring oil emulsions stabilized with herring phospholipids (pH 3.5–5.5) were studied by measurement of the dissolved oxygen consumption by unsaturated fatty acids. EDTA and citric acid completely inhibited iron‐mediated oxidation when they were added in twice the ratio to iron at pH>3.5. Caffeic acid, ascorbic acid, and α‐tocopherol enhanced the oxidation by reducing Fe3+ to the more prooxidatively active Fe2+, while propyl gallate reduced the oxidation by iron chelation. Ascorbic acid was depleted by interactions with iron and decreased the prooxidative activity of α‐tocopherol. Astaxanthin and β‐carotene showed minor effects on iron‐mediated lipid oxidation. This study shows that the interactions between LMW iron and antioxidants have an impact on lipid peroxidation in emulsions in concentration dependent manners. Interactions with metals must therefore be considered when interpreting the activity/behavior of antioxidants in emulsions rich in omega‐3 fatty acids. This study also shows that it is possible to screen these interactions by quantification of the dissolved oxygen consumption.

Practical applications: This work investigates the behavior of several food antioxidants in the presence of LMW iron in fish oil emulsions stabilized with marine phospholipids, and shows that interactions with iron can convert some of the anticipated antioxidants into pro‐oxidants. Measurements of dissolved oxygen concentration have been used in this study to follow iron‐mediated lipid peroxidation in the emulsions. It is shown that by quantification of the dissolved oxygen consumption it is possible to screen and evaluate the interactions between LMW iron and antioxidants in emulsion‐type systems.

This paper studies the impact of interactions between low molecular weight iron and dietary antioxidants on the rate of lipid peroxidation in fish oil emulsions stabilized with marine phospholipids. It is shown that measurement of dissolved oxygen consumption by fatty acids can be used for characterization of these interactions in emulsion‐type systems.
Separation and characterisation of detonation nanodiamond by capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Duffy Emer , Mitev Dimitar P. , Nesterenko Pavel N. , Kazarian Artaches A. , Paull Brett
Published: March 2014

A new method for the characterisation of purified detonation nanodiamond (DND) using CZE has been developed. The influence of BGE conditions on electrophoretic mobility, peak shape and particle aggregation was investigated, with resultant observations supported by zeta potential approximations and particle size measurements. Sodium tetraborate (pH 9.3), Tris (pH 9.3) and sodium phosphate (pH 7) were used in studying the BGE concentration effect on a commercial source of chemically stabilised DND. The BGE concentration had a strong effect on the stability of DND in suspension. The formation of aggregates of various sizes was observed as BGE concentration increased. The effect of pH on the electromigration of DND was examined using sodium phosphate (pH 8 and 10). The CZE method was subsequently applied to four different DND samples, which had undergone different routes of purification following detonation synthesis. Each sample produced a unique electrophoretic peak or profile in sodium tetraborate buffer (pH 9.3), such that the actual separation of DND samples from different sources could be achieved.
Capillary electrophoresis of quantum dots: Minireview
Authors: Stanisavljevic Maja , Vaculovicova Marketa , Kizek Rene , Adam Vojtech
Published: March 2014

It has been already three decades, since the fluorescent nanocrystals called quantum dots (QDs) appeared and attracted attention of a broad scientific community. Their excellent not only optical but also electronic properties predetermined QDs for utilization in a variety of areas. Besides lasers, solar cells, and/or computers, QDs have established themselves in the field of (bio)chemical labeling as well as medical imaging. However, due to the numerous application possibilities of QDs, there are high demands on their properties that need to be precisely controlled and characterized. CE with its versatile modes and possibilities of detection was found to be an effective tool not only for characterization of QDs size and/or surface properties but also for monitoring of their interactions with other molecules of interest. In this minireview, we are giving short insight in analysis of QDs by CE, and summarizing the advantages of this method for QDs characterization.
Suppression of soot of a diesel engine fueled with biodiesel–diesel blends
Authors: Ni Peiyong , Wei Dapeng , Wang Xiangli , Zhang Dengpan , Wang Zhong
Published: March 2014

The characteristics of spray, combustion, and soot emissions of the diesel engine fueled with biodiesel–diesel blends and diesel are numerically simulated using AVL‐FIRE software to illustrate the suppression effect of biodiesel on in‐cylinder soot. The model was validated by comparison with experimental cylinder pressure and smoke for the baseline engine at rated power. The results indicate the spray penetration distance of the blends is farther than that diesel. Compared with that of diesel, the evaporated fuel mass of 10 and 20% (vol) biodiesel blending with diesel (donated as B10 and B20) are almost the same. The Sauter mean diameter (SMD) of the blends is greater than that of diesel from 11° before top dead center (BTDC) to 7° BTDC, and then SMD of the blends is less than that of diesel. The equivalence ratio of the blends is lower that that diesel except at the end of injection, leading to the tendency of sooting. The ignition timing advances as the percent of biodiesel in the blend increases, helpful to reduce soot formation. The soot mass fraction for B20 decreases by 35.5% at exhaust valve opening, while it for B10 and 50% (vol) biodiesel blending with diesel (B50), decreases by 14.9 and 14.1%, respectively. The mean soot diameter and particle number of diesel give the bimodal distribution while those of the blends do trimodal distribution. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 34: 282–288, 2015
Sesquiterpenoids and Their Glycosides from Gynura procumbens
Authors: Zhang Ying , Jiang Kun , Zhai Yi‐Ming , Tan Jun‐Jie , Meng Da‐Li , Guo Sha‐Li , Qu Shi‐Jin , Tan Chang‐Heng
Published: March 2014

Chemical investigation of the MeOH extract of the leaves of Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. afforded one new sesquiterpenoid, muurol‐4‐ene‐1β,3β,10β‐triol (1), and two sesquiterpene glycosides, muurol‐4‐ene‐1β,3β,10β‐triol 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (2) and muurol‐4‐ene‐1β,3β,15‐triol 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (3), together with three known sesquiterpenoids. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analyses and chemical methods.
One‐Pot Synthesis of (1,2,3‐Triazolyl)methyl 3,4‐Dihydro‐2‐oxo‐1H‐pyrimidine‐5‐carboxylates as Potentially Active Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Dabiri Minoo , Salehi Peyman , Bahramnejad Mahboubeh , Koohshari Majid , Aliahmadi Atousa
Published: March 2014

A simple and efficient one‐pot four‐component procedure has been developed for the synthesis of a wide range of compounds containing the (triazolyl)methyl oxo‐pyrimidine‐carboxylate system from propargyl β‐keto esters, various azides, aldehydes, and urea in the presence of catalytic amounts of (AcO)2Cu/sodium ascorbate in AcOH. The method worked well with different aryl and heteroaryl aldehydes, and for a variety of substituents in the triazolyl part of the molecule. The antimicrobial activities of the products were evaluated against two Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, and one fungus. Compound 5j was active against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.
CuO Nanoparticles as Effective Reusable Heterogeneous Catalyst for S‐Arylation Reactions
Authors: Yavari Issa , Sodagar Esmat , Nematpour Manijeh
Published: March 2014

Copper(II) oxide nanoparticles have been synthesized from Cu(OAc)2 via a simple hydrolysis route and were found to be an efficient and inexpensive catalyst for ligand free CS cross‐coupling reactions of malononitrileCS2 adduct with various aryl halides. Aryl iodides and bromides, with electron‐withdrawing as well as electron‐releasing groups on the aromatic ring, undergo coupling reactions in good yields.
One‐Pot Synthesis of N,N‐Disubstituted (Z)‐4‐(Halomethylidene)‐4H‐3,1‐benzothiazin‐2‐amines from 2‐(2,2‐Dihaloethenyl)phenyl Isothiocyanates and Secondary Amines
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Yamane Kazuya , Nozawa Ippei , Ezaki Kosuke
Published: March 2014

We have developed a one‐pot procedure for the preparation of N,N‐disubstituted (Z)‐4‐(halomethylidene)‐4H‐3,1‐benzothiazin‐2‐amines 3 from 2‐(2,2‐dihaloethenyl)phenyl isothiocyanates 1, easily accessible from known 2‐(2,2‐dihaloethenyl)benzenamines by a three‐step sequence, and secondary amines. Thus, the isothiocyanates 1 react with secondary amines to afford the corresponding thiourea derivatives, of which the treatment with NaH provides the desired products.
New Bisabolane Sesquiterpenes from the Rhizomes of Curcuma xanthorrhizaRoxb. and Their Inhibitory Effects on UVB‐Induced MMP‐1 Expression in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Park Ji‐Hae , Jung Ye‐Jin , Antar Aziz Mohamed Mohamed , Hoon Lee Tae , Lee Chang‐Ho , Han Daeseok , Song Myung‐Chong , Kim Jiyoung , Baek Nam‐In
Published: March 2014

Two new bisabolane sesquiterpenoids, 1 and 2, along with five known ones, 13‐hydroxyxanthorrhizol (3), 12,13‐epoxyxanthorrhizol (4), xanthorrhizol (5), β‐curcumene (6), and β‐bisabolol (7), were isolated from the rhizomes of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb. The chemical structures of the new compounds were determined to be (7R,10R)‐10,11‐dihydro‐10,11‐dihydroxyxanthorrhizol 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (1) and (−)‐curcuhydroquinone 2,5‐di‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (2) on the basis of 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopic analyses and optical‐rotation characteristics. Compounds 2 and 3 decreased MMP‐1 expression in UVB‐treated human keratinocytes by ca. 8.9‐ and 7.6‐fold at the mRNA level, and by ca. 9.2‐ and 6.6‐fold at the protein level, respectively. The results indicate that the isolated compounds may have anti‐aging effects through inhibition of MMP‐1 expression in skin cells.
REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE WITH PUBLIC–PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP IN THE IRRIGATION SUBSECTOR
Authors: Trier Rémi
Published: March 2014

Over the last few years, the number of initiatives of public–private partnerships in irrigation has increased significantly. PPPs have been developed to accelerate irrigation expansion, improve operation & maintenance services, and eliminate or reduce O&M subsidies. This paper shares the lessons learned from the experiences of the 'pioneer' countries, reviewing: (i) recent PPP transactions under implementation (Morocco, Peru and Ethiopia) and (ii) some transactions under preparation (Brazil, Morocco and Ethiopia).

The main lessons learned to date for the promotion and development of PPPs in irrigation cover the following areas:

an analysis of what constitutes a favourable environment to promote and develop a PPP, considering the potentially conflicting objectives of farmers, public and private sectors. This paper illustrates that the PPP model (with financial contribution of a private party to the CAPEX, capital investment) is more appropriate for new and modern irrigation schemes with solid irrigation services demand from commercial farmers, while other designs of private sector involvement, like management contracts, should be considered when conditions are different (smallholders with subsistence agriculture, etc.);

a description of good and bad practices for transaction design to reduce demand and payment risk and to increase attractiveness of the operation;

a discussion on the intrinsic role of PPP in irrigation, advising not to consider it as a new 'panacea' but rather as an additional tool to be used cautiously and only when some specific conditions are met. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.