bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pakistani Responses to AfPak Policy
Authors: Butool Syeda Beena
Published: January 2014

The upcoming 2014 withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan poses challenges not just for Afghanistan but also for neighboring local war theaters, particularly the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan. The conflict inside FATA is surrounded by a two-part puzzle comprising a global narrative inflected by America and a sidelined local narrative prevalent inside FATA. This study reconstructs the local narrative of FATA’s militancy and seeks to explain related U.S. foreign policy and the dilemmas it instills in the Pakistani state.
Epidemiologia do uso de medicamentos entre idosos em area urbana do Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Neves Sabrina Joany Felizardo , Marques Ana Paula de Oliveira , Leal Marcia Carrera Campos , Diniz Alcides da Silva , Medeiros Tiberio Silva , Arruda Ilma Kruze Grande de
Published: January 2014

OBJETIVO Analisar o uso de medicamentos entre idosos e os fatores associados. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal com 400 indivíduos maiores de 60 anos residentes na área de abrangência da Estratégia Saúde da Família, em Recife, PE, em 2009. Os indivíduos foram selecionados por amostra probabilística sistemática, com coleta de dados de base domiciliar. Foram avaliadas variáveis socioeconômicas e demográficas, estilo de vida, condições de saúde e nutricionais. A variável independente foi uso de medicamentos. O diagrama analítico envolveu análises estatísticas uni e multivariadas. RESULTADOS A prevalência de uso de medicamentos foi de 85,5%. A polifarmácia (> 5 medicamentos) ocorreu em 11% dos casos. Dos 951 medicamentos relatados, 98,2% foram por prescrição médica e 21,6% foram considerados inseguros para idosos. Os medicamentos de uso nos sistemas cardiovascular (42,9%), nervoso central (20,2%), digestório e no metabolismo orgânico (17,3%) foram os mais utilizados. O uso de polifarmácia associou-se à escolaridade (p = 0,008), à saúde autorreferida (p = 0,012), à doença crônica autorreferida (p = 0,000) e ao número de consultas médicas ao ano (0,000). CONCLUSÕES A proporção de uso de medicamentos é elevada entre idosos, inclusive daqueles considerados inadequados, e há desigualdades entre grupos de idosos quando se considera escolaridade, quantidade de consultas médicas e saúde autorreferida.
Obesity and dental caries: systematic review
Authors: Silva Alexandre Emidio Ribeiro , Menezes Ana Maria Baptista , Demarco Flavio Fernando , Vargas-Ferreira Fabiana , Peres Marco Aurelio
Published: January 2014

OBJECTIVE Identifying, through a systematic literature review, evidence of a possible association between obesity and dental caries. METHODS A search of articles published between 2005 and January 2012 was performed in the Medline/PubMed, LILACS and Web of Science databases. The quality of scientific evidence of the selected articles was assessed by the items proposed for observational studies in the Downs & Black instrument. RESULTS Initially, 537 references were found; after checking the titles and abstracts by two independent researchers, twenty-eight articles were selected for complete reading. Ten of them that assessed the primary and/or permanent dentition observed a positive association between obesity and dental caries and one study found an inverse association. According to the Downs & Black classification, thirteen articles with good scientific evidence were found. CONCLUSIONS The present review did not find sufficient evidence regarding the association between obesity and dental caries, and it did not clarify the possible role of diet and other possible effect modifiers on this association.
Fair Value Measurements and Audit Fees: Evidence from the Banking Industry
Authors: Ettredge Michael L. , Xu Yang , Yi Han S.
Published: January 2014

Using publicly traded bank holding company data from 2008 through 2011, this paper documents that the proportions of fair-valued assets held by banks are positively associated with audit fees. The positive association between audit fees and the proportions of total assets that are fair-valued using Level 3 inputs is greater than its positive association with the proportions of total assets that are fair-valued using Level 1 or Level 2 inputs. These results are consistent with a hypothesized scenario in which audit effort increases in the difficulty of verifying asset fair values. We also document that bank specialist auditors, defined as in Behn, Choi, and Kang (2008), charge lower audit fees to bank clients on average, suggesting cost efficiencies passed to clients as lower fees. However, bank expert auditors charge more for auditing the proportions of total assets that are fair-valued. Overall, the results support concerns expressed by some observers that greater use of fair value measurements for financial instruments will trigger increased audit fees.

Data Availability: All data used in this study are publicly available from the sources identified in the text.
Orta Anadolu’da Boğazlıyan Bölgesi’nde buşon görülme sıklığı
Authors: Yüksel Ali
Published: January 2014

Amaç: Boğazlıyan ve çevresinde yaşayan nüfusta buşon görülme sıklığını, buşon olgularının bazı klinik ve demografik özelliklerini tespit etmek.Yöntem: Mayıs 2012-Mayıs 2013 tarihleri arasında Kulak Burun Boğaz polikliniğine başvuran ve otoskopik değerlendirme yapılan 8203 hasta çalışmaya alındı. Buşon birikiminin varlığı ve etkilenen kulak saptandı; yaşa ve cinsiyete göre irdelendi. Buşon dışında yabancı cisimlerle ilgili bilgiler de kayıt edildi.Bulgular: 8203 hastanın 1123’ünde (%13.7) buşon tespit edildi. Buşon prevalansı 18 yaş altında %10.2, 18-65 yaş grubunda %13.0 ve 65 yaş üstü hastalarda %23.2 olarak saptandı. Yaş arttıkça buşon görülme sıklığı artmaktaydı (p0.05). Dış kulak yolunda yabancı cisim görülme yıllık prevalansı %0.9 olarak hesaplandı.Sonuç: Devlet Hastanesi KBB polikliniğine başvuran hastalar bağlamında Boğazlıyan ve çevresinde buşon görülme sıklığı %13.7’dir. Yaş ilerledikçe buşon görülme sıklığı artmaktadır..
Opting or Not Opting to Share Income Tax Information with the Census: Does It Affect Research Findings?
Authors: Brochu Pierre , Morin Louis-Philippe , Billette Jean-Michel
Published: January 2014

This paper examines the implication of the decision to give 2006 Census respondents the option of letting Statistics Canada access their income tax files rather than answering income-related questions directly. We find that giving respondents the option to share their income tax files (or not) adds a confounding factor when it comes to measuring family-income inequality, particularly for the bottom tail of the distribution. The consent decision does not, however, materially affect the estimation of standard wage equations.
GENETIC DIVERGENCE IN ASH GOURD (Benincasa hispida Thunb.)
Authors: Afroze F. , Rasul M. G. , Islam A. K. M. Aminul , Mian M. A. K. , Hossain T.
Published: January 2014

Genetic divergence among 46 ash gourd genotypes from different origins was investigated to select the parents for hybridization using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. Though the genotypes grouped into seven clusters, the pattern of distribution of the genotypes into different clusters were random indicating that the geographical isolation was not always related to genetic diversity. Characters like fruit weight, fruits per plant, days to first male flower and nodes for first male flower contributed considerably to the total divergence. Maximum inter-cluster distance between cluster III and IV indicating wide genetic divergence between the genotypes of these two clusters (cluster III and IV followed by cluster IV and VII). However, the intra-cluster distances were smaller than inter-cluster distances. Thus, crossing between the genotypes of these two groups (cluster III and IV) would produce high heterotic progeny and may produce new recombinants with desired traits.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v20i1.17014
GENETIC VARIATION, CORRELATION AND SELECTION INDICES IN ADVANCED BREEDING LINES OF RICE (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Habib S. H. , Iftekharuddaula K. M. , Bashar M. K. , Akter Khaleda , Hossain M. K.
Published: January 2014

Forty advanced breeding lines of rice were studied during T Aman season (rainfed ecosystem) for finding out selection indices, variability and character association for grain yield and its components. All the tested characters were found showing significant variation. The highest genotypic, environmental and phenotypic variances were found in filled grains/panicle followed by plant height. High heritability associated with high genetic advance were obtained in panicles/hill, plant height, filled grains/panicle, 1000-grain weight and grain yield. Genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than the corresponding phenotypic correlation coefficients in most of the cases. Panicle length, panicles/hill and filled grains/panicle showed significant positive correlation with grain yield. Path analysis revealed that filled grains/panicle, panicles/hill and 1000-grain weight had positive and highest direct effects on grain yield. Moreover, panicle length had highest indirect effect on grain yield through filled grains/panicle. Discriminant function analysis revealed that a progressive increase in the efficiency of selection was observed with the inclusion of additional character in the selection index. Among the single variable indices, filled grains/panicle showed maximum relative efficiency over the straight selection for grain yield. The highest relative efficiency was observed with index involving seven characters, days to maturity + panicle length + panicles/hill + plant height + filled grains/panicle + 1000-grain weight + yield (t/ha). However, some of 3-traits, 4- traits, 5- traits, and 6- traits indices were also equally good.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v20i1.17015
GENETIC VARIABILITY, HERITABILITY AND GENETIC ADVANCE IN POINTED GOURD (Trichosanthes dioica Roxb.)
Authors: Malek M. A. , Miah M. A. Bari , Islam M. O. , Hoque A. M. M. Mosiul , Gomes R.
Published: January 2014

Genetic variability, heritability in broad sense and expected genetic advance as percent of mean for fruit yield and nine characters were studied in 25 pointed gourd genotypes. Fruits per plant and fruit yield per plant showed maximum variability. Genotypic coefficient of variation was found high for fruit yield and number of fruits per plant. All the characters under study were highly heritable in nature. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for fruit yield and fruits per plant, which indicated that these characters are more reliable for effective selection.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v20i1.17026
GENETIC DIVERGENCE IN MAIZE (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Ivy N. A. , Uddin M. Shalim , Sultana R. , Masud M. M.
Published: January 2014

Genetic divergence of 25 genotypes of maize were estimated using D2 and Principal Component Analysis. The genotypes under study fell into five clusters. The inter-cluster distances were higher than intra cluster distances suggesting wider genetic diversity among the genotypes of different groups. The intra-cluster value was maximum in cluster V and minimum in cluster I. The inter cluster D2 values showed the maximum distance between cluster II and III followed by the distance between II and I. The cluster means were higher for days to maturity, plant height and ear height in cluster II; grain yield per plant was higher in cluster IV. Genotypes were much in use having the above mentioned characters in clusters II and IV would offer a good scope for the improvement of this crop through hybridization and rational selection.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v20i1.17027
GENE ACTIONS OF TRAITS CONTRIBUTING TO LODGING RESISTANCE IN WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L)
Authors: Sarker Z. I. , Shamsuddin A. K. M. , Ara R.
Published: January 2014

Estimates of gene action for lodging related traits at Wheat Research Center during 1999-2002 in three crosses of wheat showed different genetic control of the traits among the crosses. For almost all traits, additive or dominance effects or both components were significant in either three- or six-parameter model, indicating that both additive and dominance gene effects were operative for different traits contributing to lodging resistance. Although duplicate type of epistasis was also observed for second internode breaking strength, plant height and spikes per plant and grain yield per plant once in different crosses, additive x additive epistasis along with additive gene action for the aforesaid traits would improve selection of the same in the segregating populations. The additive x dominance gene interaction for second internode length, diameter and wall thickness would be useful too for improvement of second internode breaking strength and consequently lodging resistance, as their inheritance and selection in segregating populations would be relatively easier than the traits controlled by completely non-additive genes. For duplicate type of epistasis biparental mating or recurrent selection followed by conventional selection is suggested.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v20i2.17031
PRODUCTION OF HAPLOIDS AND POLYEMBRYOS IN WHEAT (Triticum aestivum L.) THROUGH WHEAT × MAIZE SYSTEM
Authors: Asad U. , Shamsuddin A. K. M. , Alam S. , Rahman M. M.
Published: January 2014

Six varieties of spring wheat such as Mayoor, Sebia, Prodip, Bulbul, Bijoy, Sowgat were crossed with a single maize variety Pop corn as pollinator. Fertilization of wheat eggs, formation, retention and development of haploid embryos were facilitated by the application of 2, 4-D at 100ppm.The haploid embryos were cultured on MS medium, which regenerated haploid plants. Highly significant variations were observed for the characters related to haploid production such as development of caryopsis, recovery of embryos and regeneration of haploid plants over total pollinated florets. The highest caryopsis setting over pollinated florets was noticed in the variety Sebia. Recovery of embryos over caryopsis was the highest in the variety Bijoy. Germination of embryos over total embryos and regeneration of haploid plants over total pollinated florets were highest in the variety Mayoor. At the time of embryo rescue, occurrence of more than one embryo in a single caryopsis were noticed which were considered as polyembryos. Generation of multishoot from attached polyembryos (appeared as single embryo) was also considered as polyembryos. Highly significant variations were observed among the six varieties of wheat for formation of polyembryos over caryopsis, germination of polyembryos over total embryos and formation of polyembryos accounted to multishoots over total embryos. The highest number of polyembryos formation and germination of polyembryos were observed in the variety Mayoor. The varieties Sebia and Mayoor gave the highest polyembryos formation accounted to multishoots which were more than 8.00%.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v20i2.17035
GENETIC DIVERSITY IN LOCAL RAINFED LOWLAND RICE (Oryza sativa L.) IN BANGLADESH
Authors: Khalequzzaman M. , Islam M. Z. , Akter Khaleda , Bashar M. K.
Published: January 2014

Genetic diversity of 40 traditional Bangladeshi rice genotypes was studied under rainfed lowland condition through Mahalanobis D2 statistic for grain yield and yield contributing characters. The genotypes were grouped into six clusters. The inter cluster distances were higher than the intra cluster distances indicating wider genetic diversity among the genotypes of different clusters. The intra cluster distances were lower in all the cases reflecting homogeneity of the genotypes within the clusters. The cluster VI contained the highest number of genotypes (12) and the cluster IV contained the lowest (2). The highest intra cluster distance was noticed for the cluster VI and the lowest for cluster IV. The highest inter cluster distance was observed between cluster III and IV followed by clusters IV and V, clusters I and IV, clusters IV and VI and the lowest between clusters II and VI. Regarding inter cluster distance, cluster IV showed high genetic distance from all other four clusters except cluster II. The genotypes from cluster IV could be hybridized with the genotypes of any of the four clusters for producing transgressive segregants. Days to flowering, duration and spikelets/panicle were mainly responsible for genetic divergence while considering mean values. Though filled grains/panicle and flag leaf area are the most positive contributors based on the latent vectors. The highest cluster means for yield and 1000 grain weight and other 2nd highest four yield contributing characters (viz. plant height, days to maturity, panicle length and flag leaf area) were obtained from cluster III. The highest flag leaf area, plant height, panicle length, filled grains per panicle and grain length were found in cluster V. Cluster IV had the lowest mean for yield and other moderate to low yield contributing characters. Therefore more emphasis should be given on cluster V and III for selecting genotypes as parents for crossing with the genotypes of cluster IV which would be used to produce new recombinants with desired traits. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpbg.v21i1.17048
Communities in the Workplace
Authors: Crosby Connie
Published: January 2014

Communities in a work setting—also known as communities of practice—are groups of people coming together as a consequence of work or occupation-related responsibilities. This chapter explores how these groups allow practitioners or knowledge workers to share stories of their experiences and compare notes on topics such as procedures, vendors, and teamwork. Engaged communities encompass a range of activities including regular meetings or conference calls, storytelling, speaker series, participating in intranet or online discussion groups, information sharing and content curation, sharing calendars of events and key dates, polls and surveys, review of resources and software, thought leadership, professional development and business development. The chapters shows how benefits of communities can be augmented through improved engagement of community members, community management and administration, and implementation of a subject taxonomy.
Group Consensus in Business Process Modeling
Authors: Rittgen Peter
Published: January 2014

Consensus is an important measure for the success of any business process modeling effort. Although intensively studied in the general literature on group processes, consensus has hardly been considered in business process modeling and never seriously measured. The author defines consensus as the level of agreement of group members’ views on the process and introduce business process similarity as a proxy. The author validates the measure by comparing it to an existing self-reported measure of consensus. The author then uses this measure to inform and guide the process of modeling.
Effect of Bleaching Agents on the Sealing of Cervical Barrier in Intracoronal Bleaching Procedures
Authors: Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Huhtala Maria Filomena Rocha Lima , Gomes Ana Paula Martins , Ramos Carolina Judica , Yui Karen Cristina Kazue , Silva Eduardo Galera da , Gonçalves Sérgio Eduardo de Paiva
Published: January 2014

Discoloration of nonvital teeth is an esthetic deficiency frequently requiring bleaching treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate in vitro the effect of bleaching agents on two different cervical barriers in order to minimize or prevent the leakage along the root canal filling in the intracoronal bleaching procedures. Ninety-six extracted human molars were used which were biomechanically prepared, filled and divided into eight groups. The cervical barriers tested were zinc phosphate cement (ZPC) and resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC) applied (3 mm of thickness) at the cementoenamel junction level. Forty-eight specimens were divided into four groups for each cervical barrier: (1) control group without bleaching agent, (2) a mixture of sodium perborate and distilled water, (3) a mixture of sodium perborate and 10% carbamide peroxide and (4) a mixture of sodium perborate and 35% carbamide peroxide. The bleaching agents were placed inside the pulp chamber for 7 and 14 days, and the access opening was sealed with Cimpat. After 21 days, microleakage evaluation of 2% rhodamine B dye solution at dentin-cervical barrier interface was performed by a stereomicroscope. Data were submitted to Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's and Dunnett's tests, with a significance level of 0.05. The results demonstrated no statistically significant differences among the control group and the experimental groups for each cervical barrier (ZPC and RMGIC); there were no significant differences among the bleaching agents for the same barrier and RMGIC barrier provided better sealing than ZPC (p < 0.05). Therefore, the bleaching agents demonstrated similar performance when tested for the same cervical barrier and RMGIC barrier provided better sealing than the ZPC barrier, regardless of the association of bleaching agents used.

How to cite this article

Yui KCK, Huhtala MFRL, da Silva EG, Ramos CJ, Torres CRG, de Paiva Gongalves SE, Gomes APM. Effect of Bleaching Agents on the Sealing of Cervical Barrier in Intracoronal Bleaching Procedures. World J Dent 2013;4(4): 235-240.
Use of Salivary Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Periodontal Disease Activity: A Literature Review
Authors: Tonetto Mateus Rodrigues , Pinto Shelon Cristina Souza , Rocha Fernanda Regina Godoy , Munoz Eduardo Mariscal , Sampaio Jose Eduardo Cesar
Published: January 2014

Periodontal disease is an infectious disease characterized by the connective tissue destruction and consequent alveolar bone loss in response to plaque accumulation on the tooth surface. The clinical diagnosis of periodontal disease is based both on clinical examination involving the evaluation of probing depth and radiographic examination of alveolar bone loss but these examinations are not enough to determine the activity of the disease process. For that reason, it has been proposed to seek predictive disease markers in an attempt to assess the disease activity and so, evaluate the efficacy of the periodontal disease treatment. The aim of this review is to present recent advances in the development of proteomic, genomics and microbial biomarkers and potential clinical applications. It was concluded that periodontal treatment based on assessing the levels of salivary biomarkers emerges as a promising method in near future and will become an integral part of the evaluation of periodontal health.

How to cite this article

Rocha FRG, de Molon RS, Tonetto MR, Souza Pinto SC, Munoz EM, Sampaio JEC. Use of Salivary Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Periodontal Disease Activity: A Literature Review. World J Dent 2013;4(4):250-255.
Construcción de lazo social en “La noche de los visones” y “La Regine de Aluminios el Mono” de Pedro Lemebel
Authors: Rossi Alejandro
Published: January 2014

La voz del travesti en las crónicas seleccionadas de Lemebel narran los cambios de una sociedad en transición entre la Unidad Popular y la Dictadura. En este contexto, el presente ensayo postula de qué manera este cambio social influye en la construcción de los lazos sociales de esta minoría marginal y de que forma la llegada y propagación del SIDA (el que se asocia directamente con la dictadura militar de Pinochet) se vincula a la manera en que estos se componen.
Reconciling different equations for proton conduction using the Meyer‐Neldel compensation rule
Authors: Jones Alan G.
Published: January 2014

Proton conduction in nominally anhydrous minerals is the likely explanation for moderate values of electrical resistivity observed in the lithospheric and sublithospheric mantle. However, results from the various laboratories making the controlled measurements on mantle minerals, predominantly olivine, are not in agreement with one another. Importantly, the groups use different formalisms to fit their experimental data. In this paper, we show that neither of the two formalisms employed by the various laboratories is consistent with the Meyer‐Neldel Rule (MNR), or Compensation Law, by which the preexponent term of the Arrhenian equation is linearly related to the activation energy term. We also demonstrate why the formalism of Karato and colleagues can be used at low water contents (100 wt ppm and below), whereas at higher water contents (above 300 wt ppm), the formalism of Yoshino's and Poe's labs needs to be employed. A new MNR self‐consistent formalism is presented that is applicable over all water contents. MNR consistency appears to operate for most processes that can be described by an Arrhenius equation, so its adoption through an MNR consistent formalism is highly recommended when fitting experimental observations.
The Source of “Fairy Rings”: 2‐Azahypoxanthine and its Metabolite Found in a Novel Purine Metabolic Pathway in Plants
Authors: Choi Jae‐Hoon , Ohnishi Toshiyuki , Yamakawa Yasuhiro , Takeda Shogo , Sekiguchi Shuhei , Maruyama Waki , Yamashita Kimiko , Suzuki Tomohiro , Morita Akio , Ikka Takashi , Motohashi Reiko , Kiriiwa Yoshikazu , Tobina Hiroyuki , Asai Tatsuo , Tokuyama Shinji , Hirai Hirofumi , Yasuda Nobuhiro , Noguchi Keiichi , Asakawa Tomohiro , Sugiyama Shimpei , Kan Toshiyuki , Kawagishi Hirokazu
Published: January 2014

Rings or arcs of fungus‐stimulated plant growth occur worldwide; these are commonly referred to as “fairy rings”. In 2010, we discovered 2‐azahypoxanthine (AHX), a compound responsible for the fairy‐ring phenomenon caused by fungus; AHX stimulated the growth of all the plants tested. Herein, we reveal the isolation and structure determination of a common metabolite of AHX in plants, 2‐aza‐8‐oxohypoxanthine (AOH). AHX is chemically synthesized from 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide (AICA), and AHX can be converted into AOH by xanthine oxidase. AICA is one of the members of the purine metabolic pathway in animals, plants, and microorganisms. However, further metabolism of AICA remains elusive. Based on these results and facts, we hypothesized that plants themselves produce AHX and AOH through a pathway similar to the chemical synthesis. Herein, we demonstrate the existence of endogenous AHX and AOH and a novel purine pathway to produce them in plants.
A Tetravalent Cerium Complex Containing a CeO Bond
Authors: So Yat‐Ming , Wang Guo‐Cang , Li Yang , Sung Herman H.‐Y. , Williams Ian D. , Lin Zhenyang , Leung Wa‐Hung
Published: January 2014

Whereas terminal oxo complexes of transition and actinide elements are well documented, analogous lanthanide complexes have not been reported to date. Herein, we report the synthesis and structure of a cerium(IV) oxo complex, [CeO(LOEt)2(H2O)]⋅MeC(O)NH2 (1; LOEt−=[Co(η5‐C5H5){P(O)(OEt)2}3]−), featuring a short CeO bond (1.857(3) Å). DFT calculations indicate that the hydrogen bond to cocrystallized acetamide plays a key role in stabilizing the CeO moiety of 1 in the solid state. Complex 1 exhibits oxidizing and nucleophilic reactivity.
Formation, Expansion, and Interconversion of Metallarings in a Sulfur‐Bridged AuICoIII Coordination System
Authors: Oji Katsuya , Igashira‐Kamiyama Asako , Yoshinari Nobuto , Konno Takumi
Published: January 2014

A novel AuICoIII coordination system that is derived from the newly prepared [Co(D‐nmp)2]− (1−; D‐nmp=N‐methyl‐D‐penicillaminate) and a gold(I) precursor AuI is reported. Complex 1− acts as a sulfur‐donating metallaligand and reacts with the gold(I) precursor to give [Au2Co2(D‐nmp)4] (2), which has an eight‐membered AuI2CoIII2 metallaring. Treatment of 2 with [Au2(dppe)2]2+ (dppe=1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane) leads to the formation of [Au4Co2(dppe)2(D‐nmp)4]2+ (32+), which consists of an 18‐membered AuI4CoIII2 metallaring that accommodates a tetrahedral anion (BF4−, ClO4−, ReO4−). In solution, the metallaring structure of 32+ is readily interconvertible with the nine‐membered AuI2CoIII metallaring structure of [Au2Co(dppe)(D‐nmp)2]+ (4+); this process depends on external factors, such as solvent, concentration, and nature of the counteranion. These results reveal the lability of the AuS and AuP bonds, which is essential for metallaring expansion and contraction.
Brief Report: Inadequate Description and Discussion of Enrolled Patient Characteristics and Potential Inter–Study Site Differences in Reports of Randomized Controlled Trials: A Systematic Survey in Six Rheumatology Journals
Authors: Yurdakul Sebahattin , Mustafa Bediha Nezhdi , Fresko Izzet , Seyahi Emire , Yazici Hasan
Published: January 2014

Objective

Detailed information on patient recruitment and study settings is an important component of reports of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We had the impression that many RCTs published in rheumatology journals lacked this information. This study was undertaken to systemically survey this matter in 6 leading journals.

Methods

A hand search was conducted for RCTs published in 2011 and 2012 in Arthritis & Rheumatism, Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, Rheumatology (Oxford), Arthritis Care & Research, The Journal of Rheumatology, and Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology. Using the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines, 2 observers evaluated the articles for the inclusion of patient eligibility criteria, including method of recruitment; study health care settings; geographic location; and, among multicenter studies, a discussion of possible effects of intercenter differences on outcomes.

Results

Among 118 articles, an informative account of the method of recruitment was available in 36 (30.5%). Information about the study health care setting was found in 56 (47.5%). Patient socioeconomic profile was available in 11 (9.3%), patient education level in 10 (8.4%), and patient race in 48 (40.7%). Among 76 multicenter studies, the potential effects of possible intercenter differences on outcome were discussed in 13 (17.1%). There were no important differences between the 3 journals that emphasized the use of CONSORT in their author guidelines and the remaining 3 journals.

Conclusion

Adequate information on patient recruitment, the trial setting, and a discussion of possible multicenter design effects on outcomes are lacking in the majority of RCT reports in rheumatology. This affects the validity of these reports and calls for closer attention of authors, journals, and reviewers.
Amplatzer left atrial appendage occlusion through a patent foramen ovale
Authors: Koermendy Dezsoe , Nietlispach Fabian , Shakir Samera , Gloekler Steffen , Wenaweser Peter , Windecker Stephan , Khattab Ahmed A. , Meier Bernhard
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To assess feasibility and outcomes of left atrial appendage (LAA) closure when using a patent foramen ovale (PFO) for left atrial access. Background: Because of the fear of entering the left atrium too high, using a PFO for left atrial access during LAA occlusion (LAAO) is generally discouraged. We report our single‐center experience using a concomitant PFO for LAAO, thereby avoiding transseptal puncture.

Methods

LAAO was performed with local anesthesia and fluoroscopic guidance only (no echocardiography). The Amplatzer Cardiac Plug (ACP) was used in all patients. After LAAO, the PFO was closed at the same sitting, using an Amplatzer occluder through the ACP delivery sheath. Patients were discharged the same or the following day on dual antiplatelet therapy for 1–6 months, at which time a follow‐up transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was performed.

Results

In 49 (96%) of 51 patients (35 males, age 70.9 ± 11.9 years), LAAO was successful using the PFO for left atrial access. In one patient, a long tunnel PFO precluded LAAO, which was performed via a more caudal transseptal puncture. In a second patient, a previously inserted ASD occluder precluded LAAO, which was abandoned because of pericardial bleeding. PFO closure was successful in all patients. Follow‐up TEE was performed in 43 patients 138 ± 34 days after the procedure. It showed proper sitting of both devices in all patients.

Conclusions

Using a PFO for LAAO had a high success rate and could be the default access in all patients with a PFO, potentially reducing procedural complications arising from transseptal puncture. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reducing radiation exposure during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)
Authors: Sharma Divyesh , Ramsewak Adesh , O'Conaire Sean , Manoharan Ganesh , Spence Mark S.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To establish radiation dose and determine the effect of changes in cine‐fluoroscopic image acquisition settings on radiation dose and procedural outcomes in consecutive patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Background

The radiation dose during TAVI has not been extensively investigated. Methods to keep doses as low as reasonably achievable should be established for the safety of both the patient and the interventional team involved.

Methods

Data on radiation exposure was collected for 36 consecutive patients undergoing TAVI using standard image acquisition settings (SS) and 36 consecutive patients using modified image acquisition settings (LS). Radiation dose was recorded using an integrated dosimeter as dose area product (DAP). Data on patient characteristics, screening time, procedure time, contrast volume, and procedural outcomes were recorded prospectively. We also collected radiation dose data on 40 consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention in the same catheterisation laboratory.

Results

The median DAP for the LS group was significantly lower at 74.6 Gy*cm2 compared to a dose of 102.4 Gy*cm2 for the SS group (P = 0.008). There were no significant differences in the screening times, procedure times, and contrast volume used. Overall, there was no difference in procedural outcomes between the two groups. The radiation dose for TAVI procedures (SS group) was comparable to PCI procedures (102.4 Gy*cm2 vs. 94.6 Gy*cm2) using the same settings in the same catheterisation laboratory.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the radiation exposure to the patient can be significantly and simply reduced using modified dose acquisition settings for TAVI without affecting procedural outcomes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interaction of Fluorescently Labeled Triethyleneglycol and Peptide Derivatives with β‐Cyclodextrin
Authors: Alouini Mohamed‐Anis , Moustoifa El‐Farouck , Rubio‐Albenque Sandra , Berthelot Thomas , Fery‐Forgues Suzanne , Déléris Gérard
Published: January 2014

A triethyleneglycol (TEG) chain, a linear peptide, and a cyclic peptide labeled with 7‐methoxycoumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid (MC) and 7‐diethylaminocoumarin‐3‐carboxylic acid (DAC) were used to thoroughly study Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) in inclusion complexes. 1H NMR evidence was given for the formation of a 1:1 inclusion complex between β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and the fluorophore moieties of model compounds. The binding constant was 20 times higher for DAC than for MC derivatives. Molecular modeling provided additional information. The UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence properties were studied and the energy transfer process was quantified. Fluorescence quenching was particularly strong for the peptide derivatives. The presence of β‐CDs reduced the FRET efficiency slightly. Dye‐labeled peptide derivatives can thus be used to form inclusion complexes with β‐CDs and retain most of their FRET properties. This paves the way for their subsequent use in analytical devices that are designed to measure the activity of matrix metalloproteinases.
Insights into Stabilization of the 99TcVO Core for Synthesis of 99TcVO Compounds
Authors: McGregor Donna , Burton‐Pye Benjamin P. , Lukens Wayne W. , Howell Robertha C. , Francesconi Lynn C.
Published: January 2014

Synthesis of technetium‐99 (99Tc; t1/2: 2.1 × 105 years, βmax: 253 keV) materials is of importance in studies of the nuclear fuel cycle where Tc is a major fission product (6 % thermal yield from 235U and 239Pu), in understanding radioactive tank waste composition, and in identifying 99mTc compounds for nuclear medicine imaging. One of the most useful synthetic starting materials, (NBu4)TcOCl4, is susceptible to disproportionation in water to form TcO4– and TcIV species, especially TcO2·2H2O. This unwanted reaction is especially problematic when working with ligands bearing “hard” donor atoms, such as oxygen, where the stability with the “soft” TcV=O3+ core may be low. Polyoxometalates (POMs) are such ligands. They possess defect sites with four hard oxygen atoms and show low (ca. 108) stability constants with transition metals. Tc complexes of POMs are molecular‐level models for Tc metal oxide solid‐state materials and can provide information on coordination and redox environments of metal oxides that stabilize low‐valent Tc. In order to synthesize pure Tc POM complexes [TcVO(α1‐P2W17O61)]7– (TcVO‐α1) and [TcVO(α2‐P2W17O61)]7– (TcVO‐α2) from (NBu4)TcOCl4, we have identified strategies that minimize formation of TcIV species and optimize the formation of pure TcV species. The parameters that we consider are the amount of ethylene glycol, which is employed as a “transfer ligand” to prevent hydrolysis of (NBu4)TcOCl4, and the precipitating agent. The TcIV species that contaminates the non‐optimized syntheses is likely a TcIV μ‐oxido‐bridged dimer [TcIV‐(μ‐O)2‐TcIV]. We also employ a novel procedure where the α2 ligand is photoactivated and reduced (in the presence of a sacrificial electron donor) to subsequently reduce TcVIIO4– to an isolatable TcVO‐α2 product that is remarkably free of TcIV.
Nitrile‐Rich Borate Anions – Application in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Harloff Jörg , Karsch Markus , Schulz Axel , Villinger Alexander
Published: January 2014

The cyano‐rich borate anion [B(tceg)2]– (tceg = tetracyanoethylene glycolate) has been synthesized in a two‐step reaction from Na[B(OMe)4] with two equivalents of the cyanohydrin analogue Me3SiOC2(CN)4OSiMe3. The structures of the starting materials, an isolated intermediate Na2[B2(OMe)2(tceg)3], and Na[B(tceg)2] are discussed. Thermal studies of WCC[B(tceg)2] [WCC = 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium (EMIm), 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium (BMIm), 1‐octyl‐3‐methylimidazolium (OMIm), Me4N, Et4N, and Bu4N], synthesized by salt metathesis, showed that the compounds with EMIm, BMIm, OMIm, and Bu4N have ionic liquid properties. The synthesis, structure, and analytical results of Me3SiOC(CN)3 are discussed as well as the results of its conversion with Na[B(OMe)4].
Syntheses and Structures of 10‐Trimethylelement‐Substituted 1,8‐Dichloroanthracenes
Authors: Lamm Jan‐Hendrik , Vishnevskiy Yury V. , Ziemann Eric , Kinder Timo A. , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Mitzel Norbert W.
Published: January 2014

1,8‐Dichloroanthracenes bearing EMe3 substituents at the 10‐position (E = Si, Ge, Sn) have been synthesised by salt elimination reactions. The key compound, 10‐bromo‐1,8‐dichloroanthracene (2), was quantitatively obtained by conversion of 1,8‐dichloroanthracene with elemental bromine in dichloromethane. The EMe3‐substituted anthracene compounds 1,8‐dichloro‐10‐(trimethylsilyl)‐ (3), 1,8‐dichloro‐10‐(trimethylgermyl)‐ (4) and 1,8‐dichloro‐10‐(trimethylstannyl)anthracene (5) were completely characterised by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Their molecular structures in the crystalline state were analysed by X‐ray diffraction experiments and compared with the crystal structure of 10‐tert‐butyl‐1,8‐dichloroanthracene (1). It was found that the level of deformation of the anthracene backbone continuously increases along the series of anthracene substituents SnMe3 < GeMe3 < SiMe3 < CMe3. Owing to the good agreement of experimental structural parameters with the results of quantum chemical calculations, the molecular deformations can be regarded as inherent molecular properties.
Three‐dimensional T2‐weighted imaging for liver MRI: Clinical values of tissue‐specific variable refocusing flip‐angle turbo spin echo imaging
Authors: Takayama Yukihisa , Nishie Akihiro , Asayama Yoshiki , Ushijima Yasuhiro , Fujita Nobuhiro , Shimamoto Dai , Yoshiura Takashi , Obara Makoto , Takemura Atsushi , Yoneyama Masami , Honda Hiroshi
Published: January 2014

Purpose

To assess the clinical utility of tissue‐specific variable refocusing flip‐angle (VRFA) turbo‐spin echo imaging for three‐dimensional T2‐weighted imaging (3D‐T2WI) of the liver.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐nine patients were scanned with three types of fat‐suppressed T2WI for the comparison: two‐dimensional single‐shot turbo spin echo T2WI (ssT2WI), 3D‐T2WI with tissue‐specific VRFA (VISTA‐TSV), and 3D‐T2WI with low‐constant VRFA (VISTA). Qualitatively, artifacts in the left and right lobes of the liver and black‐blood effects in the liver were compared using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test with the Bonferroni correction. The detection and correct characterization rates of liver lesions were compared using McNemar's test.

Results

VISTA‐TSV showed reduced artifacts in the left and right lobes of the liver compared with VISTA (P < 0.017). The artifacts shown by VISTA‐TSV were equivalent to those shown by ssT2WI. The black‐blood effects of VISTA‐TSV and VISTA were better than that of ssT2WI (P < 0.017). VISTA‐TSV showed the best detection and correct characterization rate of liver lesions among the three imaging techniques (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

3D‐T2WI with tissue‐specific VRFA can reduce artifacts of the liver, sufficiently suppress the signal in blood vessels, and has a potential to improve the detection and correct characterization rates of liver lesions. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:339–346.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparing segmented ASL perfusion of vascular territories using manual versus semiautomated techniques in children with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Helton Kathleen J. , Glass John O. , Reddick Wilburn E. , Paydar Amir , Zandieh Arash R. , Dave Rachna , Smeltzer Matthew P. , Wu Song , Hankins Jane , Aygun Banu , Ogg Robert J.
Published: January 2014

Purpose

Elevated cerebral blood flow (CBF) in sickle cell anemia (SCA) is an adaptive pathophysiologic response associated with decreased vascular reserve and increased risk for ischemia. We compared manual (M) and semiautomated (SA) vascular territory delineation to facilitate standardized evaluation of CBF in children with SCA.

Materials and Methods

ASL perfusion values from 21 children were compared for gray matter and white matter (WM) in vascular territories defined by M and SA delineation. SA delineated CBF was compared with clinical and hematologic variables acquired within 4 weeks of the MRI.

Results

CBF measurements from M (MCA 82 left, 79 right) and SA (MCA 81 left, 81 right) delineated territories were highly correlated (R = 0.99, P < 0.0001). Bland‐Altman plots had close‐fitting limits of agreement of −1.8 to −3.5 lower limit and 0 to 1.8 upper limit. SA vascular territory delineation was comparable to the expert delineation with a kappa index of 0.62–0.85 and was considerably faster. Median territorial CBF values did not differ by gender or age. WM perfusion in the posterior cerebral artery territories was positively correlated with degree of hemolysis (R = 0.58, P = 0.01 left, 0.73, P < 0.001 right) and negatively correlated with hemoglobin (R = −0.48; P = 0.03 left; −0.47; P = 0.04 right) and hemoglobin F (R = −0.42; P = .09 left; −0.47; P = 0.049 right).

Conclusion

We established the validity of the SA method, which in our experience was much faster than the M method for delineation of vascular territories. Associations between CBF and hematologic variables may demonstrate pathophysiologic changes that contribute to clinical variation in CBF. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:439–446.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Traditional Foods, Territorial Boundaries and the TRIPS Agreement: The Case of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
Authors: Rippon Matthew J.
Published: January 2014

British pie aficionados associate the town of Melton Mowbray with the production of pork pies of exceptional quality. The “Melton Mowbray” name became a Geographical Indication (GI) in 2009. However, the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association (MMPPA), formed to obtain GI status, was founded as long ago as 1998. This paper uses the Melton Mowbray case to explore the GI model that operates in the European Union (EU). Articles 22, 23 and 24 of the Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement are actualised through the national legislation of each World Trade Organization (WTO) member. This occurred in the EU at the time of the Melton Mowbray example via Regulation 2081/92. The paper draws upon material gleaned from interviews with the Melton Mowbray producers and Chairman of the MMPPA which are supplemented by transcripts of the legal conflict which pitted the MMPPA against a powerful rival manufacturer. The MMPPA argued that its adversary was too distant from Melton Mowbray and that it applied inauthentic methods of production. The out‐of‐place producer, in response, claimed that the “Melton Mowbray” name was generic and hence ineligible for GI protection. This detailed study of one of Britain's most iconic regional foods investigates the conceptual and legal infrastructure that is common to all GIs. It provides an in‐depth analysis of the constructions of place, boundaries and tradition that are deployed to generate GIs and legitimise the system. Moreover, this work demonstrates that the intricacies and nuances of the GI model can result in differing interpretations of these notions and thus lead to legal challenges from aggrieved producers.
Weight Reduction Effect of Puerh Tea in Male Patients with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Yang Tsung‐Yuan , Chou Janet I. , Ueng Kwo‐Chang , Chou Ming‐Yung , Yang Jaw‐Ji , Lin‐Shiau Shoei‐Yn , Hu Ming‐E , Lin Jen‐Kun
Published: January 2014

Puerh tea has been proposed to promote weight loss and favorably modify glucose, insulin and blood lipids. This study tested the effect of daily Puerh tea consumption for 3 months on weight and body mass index (BMI), and select metabolic parameters. The effect of daily Puerh tea intake on weight, BMI and changes in glucose, HbA1c and lipids was evaluated in patients with metabolic syndrome. The patients (N = 70) were randomized into two groups: those taking Puerh tea extract capsule (333 mg Puerh tea extract) three times a day and those taking a placebo tea for 3 months. There was a decrease in body weight of 1.3 kg in the Puerh tea group (p = 0.077) versus 0.23 kg in the placebo arm (p = 0.186). There was also a slight decrease in BMI 0.47 kg/m2 in the Puerh tea group (p = 0.076) versus 0.09 kg/m2 in the placebo arm (p = 0.185), suggesting a trend of weight change, but without statistical significance. Subgroup analysis of the male patients demonstrated statistically significant improvements in body weight reduction (p = 0.004) and BMI (p = 0.004). However, the change in other metabolic parameters (cholesterol or triglyceride) or HbA1c was not statistically significant. Intake of Puerh tea for 3 months was associated with a slight reduction in body weight and BMI, especially in the male patients. Therefore, daily Puerh tea consumption may be an alternative choice to modify body weight. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrospray droplet impact/secondary ion mass spectrometry (EDI/SIMS) for silver halides
Authors: Takaishi Rio , Hiraoka Kenzo
Published: January 2014

Electrospray droplet imact/secondary ion mass spectrometry (EDI/SIMS) was applied to many materials such as synthetic polymers, metals, semiconductors, and biological tissues. Little surface modification was observed for these samples by in situ XPS analysis. In this work, silver halides AgX (X = F, Cl, Br, and I) were examined by EDI/SIMS. The preferential etching of F for AgF was observed for the first time. This is due to the highly reactive F atoms generated at the colliding interface that are quickly annihilated by the reaction with water molecules. The selective etching of fluorine results in the enrichment of silver on the sample surface leading to the abundant Ag+ ion formation. It was suggested that metal fluorides may be useful as the cationization matrices in EDI/SIMS. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.