bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver transplantation for “very early” intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: International retrospective study supporting a prospective assessment
Authors: Sapisochin G. , Facciuto M. , Rubbia‐Brandt L. , Marti J. , Mehta N. , Yao F.Y. , Vibert E. , Cherqui D. , Grant D.R. , Hernandez‐Alejandro R. , Dale C.H. , Cucchetti A. , Pinna A. , Hwang S. , Lee S.G. , Agopian V.G. , Busuttil R.W. , Rizvi S. , Heimbach J.K. , Montenovo M. , Reyes J. , Cesaretti M. , Soubrane O. , Reichman T. , Seal J. , Kim P.T.W. , Klintmalm G. , Sposito C. , Mazzaferro V. , Dutkowski P. , Clavien P.A. , Toso C. , Majno P. , Kneteman N. , Saunders C. , Bruix J. ,   on behalf of the iCCA International Consortium
Published: August 2016

The presence of an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) in a cirrhotic liver is a contraindication for liver transplantation in most centers worldwide. Recent investigations have shown that “very early” iCCA (single tumors ≤2 cm) may have acceptable results after liver transplantation. This study further evaluates this finding in a larger international multicenter cohort. The study group was composed of those patients who were transplanted for hepatocellular carcinoma or decompensated cirrhosis and found to have an iCCA at explant pathology. Patients were divided into those with “very early” iCCA and those with “advanced” disease (single tumor >2 cm or multifocal disease). Between January 2000 and December 2013, 81 patients were found to have an iCCA at explant; 33 had separate nodules of iCCA and hepatocellular carcinoma, and 48 had only iCCA (study group). Within the study group, 15/48 (31%) constituted the “very early” iCCA group and 33/48 (69%) the “advanced” group. There were no significant differences between groups in preoperative characteristics. At explant, the median size of the largest tumor was larger in the “advanced” group (3.1 [2.5‐4.4] versus 1.6 [1.5‐1.8]). After a median follow‐up of 35 (13.5‐76.4) months, the 1‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year cumulative risks of recurrence were, respectively, 7%, 18%, and 18% in the very early iCCA group versus 30%, 47%, and 61% in the advanced iCCA group, P = 0.01. The 1‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year actuarial survival rates were, respectively, 93%, 84%, and 65% in the very early iCCA group versus 79%, 50%, and 45% in the advanced iCCA group, P = 0.02. Conclusion: Patients with cirrhosis and very early iCCA may become candidates for liver transplantation; a prospective multicenter clinical trial is needed to further confirm these results. (Hepatology 2016;64:1178‐1188)
Bone marrow stem cells and their niche components are adversely affected in advanced cirrhosis of the liver
Authors: Bihari Chhagan , Anand Lovkesh , Rooge Sheetalnath , Kumar Dhananjay , Saxena Priyanka , Shubham Smriti , Sukriti  , Trehanpati Nirupma , Kumar Guresh , Pamecha Viniyendra , Sharma Shvetank , Rastogi Archana , Kumar Anupam , Sarin Shiv K.
Published: August 2016

Bone marrow (BM) is a reservoir for immune and hematopoietic cells and critical for tissue repair and regeneration. All of these functions are severely altered in cirrhosis. We investigated the cellular and functional state of BM in cirrhosis patients. We studied the histological, cellular, and molecular changes in BM of cirrhosis patients (n = 168) and controls (n = 44). Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and associated niche cells, mesenchymal stem cells, Schwann cells, neural fibers, and endothelial cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Cytokines and growth factors were analyzed in peripheral blood and BM plasma. Cirrhotic BM showed an inverse correlation between cluster of differentiation 34+HSCs and Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease (ρ = ‐0.582, P < 0.001) and Child's scores (P < 0.038). BMs of cirrhosis patients with higher Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease (>15) showed significantly decreased HSCs, mesenchymal stem cells, Schwann cells, and neural fibers; increased interleukin‐1β (P = 0.004), tumor necrosis factor‐α (P = 0.040), and interferon‐γ (P = 0.03); and decreased oncostatin M (P = 0.04), stem cell factor (P = 0.05), and stromal cell‐derived factor 1 (P = 0.03) compared to those with lower Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease scores (≤15). The cluster of differentiation 34+ cell population was a predictor for the development of sepsis (P < 0.001), and per unit loss increased the probability of sepsis by 16%. Cirrhosis patients with fewer HSCs had lower hemoglobin (P = 0.05) and platelet counts (P = 0.05) and showed early graft dysfunction. Conclusions: Increasing severity of cirrhosis causes derangement of the hematopoietic niche and loss of HSCs, contributing to the hematological and immunological dysfunctions and reduced potential for regeneration; restoring BM functions could provide new therapeutic options in cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2016;64:1273‐1288)
BRM polymorphisms, pancreatic cancer risk and survival
Authors: Segedi Maja , Anderson Laura N. , Espin‐Garcia Osvaldo , Borgida Ayelet , Bianco Teresa , Cheng Dangxiao , Chen Zhuo , Patel Devalben , Brown M. Catherine , Xu Wei , Reisman David , Gallinger Steven , Cotterchio Michelle , Hung Rayjean , Liu Geoffrey , Cleary Sean P.
Published: August 2016

Variant alleles of two promoter polymorphisms in the BRM gene (BRM‐741, BRM‐1321), create MEF2D transcription binding sites that lead to epigenetic silencing of BRM, the key catalytic component of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex. BRM suppression can be reversed pharmacologically.1 Our group and others have reported associations with lung, head and neck, hepatocellular cancer risk,1–3 and with lung and esophageal cancer prognosis (ASCO 2013; abstract 11057 & 4077). Herein, we assessed risk and survival associations with pancreatic cancer. A provincial population‐based case‐control study was conducted with 623 histologically confirmed pancreatic adenocarcinoma cases and 1,192 age/gender distribution‐matched controls.4 Survival of cases was obtained through the Ontario Cancer Registry. Logistic and Cox proportional hazard regression models were fitted, adjusting for relevant covariates. Median age was 65 y; 52% were male; Stage I (8%), II (55%), III (14%), IV (23%); 53% after curative resection, 79% after chemotherapy; and 83% had died. In the risk analysis, adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were 1.01 (95% CI: 0.1–2.0) and 0.96 (95% CI: 0.7–1.3) for the homozygotes of BRM‐741 and BRM‐1321, respectively; aOR of double‐homozygotes was 1.11 (95% CI: 0.80–1.53), compared to the double‐wildtype. For the survival analysis, adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) were 2.19 (95% CI: 1.9–2.5) for BRM‐741 and 1.94 (95% CI: 1.7–2.2) for BRM‐1321, per unit increase in variant alleles. Compared with the double‐wildtype, aHR for carrying no, one, and two double‐homozygotes were 2.14 (95% CI: 1.6–2.8), 4.17 (95% CI: 3.0–5.7), 8.03 (95% CI: 5.7–11.4), respectively. In conclusion, two functional promoter BRM polymorphisms were not associated with pancreatic adenocarcinoma risk, but are strongly associated with survival.
Enantioselective Gas Chromatography in Search of the Origin of Biomolecular Asymmetry in Outer Space
Authors: Myrgorodska Iuliia , Javelle Thomas , Meinert Cornelia , Meierhenrich Uwe J.
Published: August 2016

Since the pioneering work of Emanuel Gil‐Av and his associates at the Weizmann Institute of Science the direct gas chromatographic resolution of enantiomers has found its application in different fields of natural sciences, even expanding to space research and astrobiology. In these domains the resolution of chiral molecules of prebiotic relevance is of particular interest, since the determination of ratios between l‐ and d‐enantiomers within non‐terrestrial samples is assumed to shed light on the origin of biomolecular homochirality and the beginnings of life itself. According to an astrophysical scenario, the first molecular symmetry breaking event occurred upon irradiation of chiral organic molecules with circularly polarized light present in the interstellar medium. To examine this hypothesis, among others, chiral gas chromatographic stationary phases have been widely used to provide the differentiation of enantiomers in extracts of meteorites, samples of simulated interstellar ices and Mars soil analogues. Moreover several chiral capillary columns have been selected for in situ analyses of extraterrestrial organic matter by Mars missions and the cometary Rosetta mission. This review will highlight current advances of enantioselective gas chromatography applied to space science.
Perception of mind and dehumanization: Human, animal, or machine?
Authors: Morera María D. , Quiles María N. , Correa Ana D. , Delgado Naira , Leyens Jacques‐Philippe
Published: August 2016

Dehumanization is reached through several approaches, including the attribute‐based model of mind perception and the metaphor‐based model of dehumanization. We performed two studies to find different (de)humanized images for three targets: Professional people, Evil people, and Lowest of the low. In Study 1, we examined dimensions of mind, expecting the last two categories to be dehumanized through denial of agency (Lowest of the low) or experience (Evil people), compared with humanized targets (Professional people). Study 2 aimed to distinguish these targets using metaphors. We predicted that Evil and Lowest of the low targets would suffer mechanistic and animalistic dehumanization, respectively; our predictions were confirmed, but the metaphor‐based model nuanced these results: animalistic and mechanistic dehumanization were shown as overlapping rather than independent. Evil persons were perceived as “killing machines” and “predators.” Finally, Lowest of the low were not animalized but considered human beings. We discuss possible interpretations.
Nano‐Fe3O4@TiO2/Cu2O Core‐shell Composite: A Convenient Magnetic Separable Catalyst for A3 and KA2 Coupling
Authors: Elhampour Ali , Nemati Firouzeh
Published: August 2016

An eco‐efficient one‐pot three component reaction between different aldehydes or ketones with alkynes and amines for the synthesis of propargylamines was performed using Fe3O4@TiO2/Cu2O as a nano‐magnetic composite under solvent free condition. The catalyst showed remarkable catalytic activity by decreasing the time of the reaction in comparison of other reported magnetic catalysts. In addition, the Fe3O4@TiO2/Cu2O can be easily recycled and reutilized for five times without apparent loss of catalytic activity.
Poly(cytosine)‐templated Silver Nanoclusters as Fluorescent Biosensor for Highly Sensitive Detection of Uric Acid
Authors: Li Yanle , Gong Nianchun , Jiang Xi , Zheng Xiaofang , Wang Yaya , Huan Shuangyan
Published: August 2016

Uric acid (UA) is an important biomarker in urine and serum samples for early diagnosis. This study re‐ ports a fluorescent biosensor based on Poly(cytosine)‐templated silver nanoclusters (C‐Ag NCs) and uricase for the highly sensitive and fast detection of UA. The strong fluorescence of the C‐Ag NCs prepared from poly (cytosine) nucleotides templates could be sensitively quenched by trace amount of H2O2, which produced from oxidation reaction of UA catalyzed by uricase. This biosensor exhibits two linear ranges as 50 nM∼50 μM and 50 μM∼400 μM, with a detection limit of 50 nM. The sensitivity of the biosensor is considerably improved compared with the methods reported in the literature. Furthermore, the detection ability of uric acid in serum samples is confirmed and this C‐Ag NCs‐based uric acid biosensor shows good promise of practical application.
Androgen deprivation causes selective deficits in the biomechanical leg muscle function of men during walking: a prospective case–control study
Authors: Cheung Ada S. , Gray Hans , Schache Anthony G. , Hoermann Rudolf , Lim Joon Daryl , Zajac Jeffrey D. , Pandy Marcus G. , Grossmann Mathis
Published: August 2016

Background

Although muscle mass declines with testosterone deficiency in men, previous studies of muscle function have not demonstrated consistent deficits, likely due to relatively insensitive methodology. Our objective was to determine the effects of testosterone deprivation on the biomechanical function of individual lower‐limb muscles.

Methods

We conducted a 12‐month prospective, observational case–control study of 34 men newly commencing androgen deprivation treatment (ADT) for prostate cancer and 29 age‐matched prostate cancer controls. Participants were assessed at 0, 6, and 12 months while walking in a biomechanics laboratory. We combined video‐based motion capture and ground reaction force data with computerized musculoskeletal modelling to assess the following primary outcomes: (i) peak joint torques at the hip, knee and ankle, and corresponding individual muscle forces; (ii) individual muscle contributions to acceleration of the body's centre of mass; and (iii) walking speed, stride length, and step width. A linear mixed model was used to compare mean differences between groups.

Results

Compared with controls over 12 months, men receiving ADT had a mean reduction in total testosterone level from 14.1 to 0.4 nmol/L, and demonstrated more marked decreases in peak hip flexor torque by 14% [mean difference −0.11 N/kg (−0.19, −0.03), P = 0.01] and peak knee extensor torque by 16% [−0.11 N/kg (−0.20, −0.02), P = 0.02] of the initial mean value. Correspondingly, iliopsoas force decreased by 14% (P = 0.006), and quadriceps force decreased by 11%, although this narrowly missed statistical significance (P = 0.07). Soleus decreased contribution to forward acceleration of the body's centre of mass by 17% [mean difference −0.17 m/s2 (−0.29, −0.05), P < 0.01]. No significant changes between groups were observed in other joint torques or individual muscle contributions to acceleration of the body. Step width increased by 18% [mean adjusted difference 1.4 cm (0.6, 27.4), P = 0.042] in the ADT group compared with controls, with no change in stride length or walking speed.

Conclusions

Testosterone deprivation selectively decreases lower‐limb muscle function, predominantly affecting muscles that support body weight, accelerate the body forwards during walking, and mediate balance. Future exercise and pro‐myogenic interventional studies to mitigate ADT‐associated sarcopenia should target these deficits.
Effect of micronized progesterone on fetal‐placental volume in first‐trimester threatened abortion
Authors: Turgal Mert , Aydin Emine , Ozyuncu Ozgur
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To compare the effect of oral micronized progesterone (OMP) on the first‐trimester fetal and placental volumes using three‐dimensional ultrasonography and extended imaging virtual organ computer‐aided analysis (XI VOCAL) method in threatened abortion.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial enrolled women with threatened abortion and a singleton pregnancy from 6–8 6/7 weeks of gestation. A total of 60 women with threatened abortion were randomly assigned to one of two groups: OMP (400 mg/day) (n = 30) and control groups (n = 30). The XI VOCAL method was used for all volume measurements using three‐dimensional ultrasonography. All patients were evaluated for fetal, amniotic, and placental volumes during the initial diagnosis and after 4 weeks.

Results

After treatment, placental volume difference was significantly higher in the OMP group (336%, 67–1,077) than in the control group (141%, 29–900) (p = 0.007). The mean differences in gestational sac, amniotic sac, and embryonic volumes between the OMP and control groups were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Hormonal support with OMP is associated with increased placental volume in first‐trimester threatened abortion when compared with the control group. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:14–19, 2017
Agricultural Co‐Operatives in Ethiopia: Evolution, Functions and Impact
Authors: Tefera Delelegne A. , Bijman Jos , Slingerland Maja A.
Published: August 2016

To what extent can co‐operatives strengthen rural development in sub‐Saharan Africa? This paper explores the development of agricultural co‐operatives in Ethiopia, particularly the changes in economic functions. Co‐operative development in Ethiopia has been strongly influenced by various political regimes. Based on expert interviews and a literature review, we explore the factors that influence a shift in economic functions from provision of inputs to commercialization of farm products. Our review shows that the impact of commercialization on farmer welfare is still inconclusive. Both the institutional environment and the internal governance structure have a hard time adjusting to changing economic conditions. © 2016 The Authors Journal of International Development Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Molecular dynamics simulations on the conformational transitions from the GA98 (GA88) to GB98 (GB88) proteins
Authors: Song Chunnian , Wang Qing , Xue Tuo , Wang Yan , Chen Guangju
Published: August 2016

We performed conventional and targeted molecular dynamics simulations to address the dynamic transition mechanisms of the conformational transitions from the GA98 protein with only 1 mutation of Leu45Tyr to GB98 and from the GA88 protein with 7 mutations of Gly24Ala, Ile25Thr, Ile30Phe, Ile33Tyr, Leu45Tyr, Ile49Thr, and Leu50Lys to GB88. The results show that the conformational transition mechanism from the mutated 3α GA98 (GA88) state to the α+4β GB98 (GB88) state via several intermediate conformations involves the bending of loops at the N and C termini firstly, the unfolding of αA and αC, then the traversing of αB, and the formation of the 4β layer with the conversion of the hydrophobic core. The bending of loops at the N and C termini and the formation of the crucial transition conformation with the full unfolded structure are key factors in their transition processes. The communication of the interaction network, the bending directions of loops, and the traversing site of αB in the transition of GA98 to GB98 are markedly different from those in GA88 to GB88 because of the different mutated residues. The analysis of the correlations and the calculated mass center distances between some segments further supported their conformational transition mechanisms. These results could help people to better understand the Paracelsus challenge. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MRI with ferumoxytol: A single center experience of safety across the age spectrum
Authors: Nguyen Kim‐Lien , Yoshida Takegawa , Han Fei , Ayad Ihab , Reemtsen Brian L. , Salusky Isidro B. , Satou Gary M. , Hu Peng , Finn J. Paul
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To summarize our single‐center safety experience with the off‐label use of ferumoxytol for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to compare the effects of ferumoxytol on monitored physiologic indices in patients under anesthesia with those of gadofosveset trisodium.

Materials and Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent ferumoxytol‐enhanced (FE) MRI exams were included. Adverse events (AEs) were classified according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v4.0. In a subgroup of patients examined under general anesthesia, recording of blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and end‐tidal CO2 was performed. A comparable group of 23 patients who underwent gadofosveset‐enhanced (GE) MRI under anesthesia with similar monitoring was also analyzed.

Results

In all, 217 unique patients, ages 3 days to 94 years, underwent FE‐MRI. No ferumoxytol‐related severe, life‐threatening, or fatal AEs occurred acutely or at follow‐up. Two patients developed ferumoxytol‐related nausea. Between‐group (FE‐ vs. GE‐MRI) comparisons showed no statistical difference in heart rate (P = 0.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] 96–113 bpm), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) (P = 0.74, 95% CI 44–52 mmHg), oxygen saturation (P = 0.76, 95% CI 94–98%), and end‐tidal CO2 (P = 0.73, 95% CI 31–37 mmHg). No significant change in MAP (P = 0.12, 95% CI 50–58 mmHg) or heart rate (P = 0.25, 95% CI 91–105 bpm) was noted between slow infusion of ferumoxytol (n = 113) vs. bolus injection (n = 104).

Conclusion

In our single‐center experience, no serious AEs occurred with the diagnostic use of ferumoxytol across a wide spectrum of age, renal function, and indications. Because of the limited sample size, firm conclusions cannot be drawn about the generalizability of our results. Thus, vigilance and monitoring are recommended to mitigate potential rare adverse reactions.

Level of Evidence: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:804–812.
MRI evaluation of benign prostatic hyperplasia: Correlation with international prostate symptom score
Authors: Guneyli Serkan , Ward Emily , Peng Yahui , Nehal Yousuf Ambereen , Trilisky Igor , Westin Charles , Antic Tatjana , Oto Aytekin
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To investigate the correlation between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐derived prostate parameters and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) type with the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS).

Materials and Methods

In all, 61 patients (median age, 60; range, 41–81 years) who underwent preoperative MRI and prostatectomy were included in this retrospective study. The MRI‐based parameters including total prostate volume (TPV), transition zone (TZ) volume (TZV), TZ index, intravesical prostatic protrusion (IPP), the anterior fibromuscular stroma (AFMS) distance, prostatic urethral angle, bladder wall thickness, urethral wall thickness, urethral compression, urethral wall changes, and BPH type were correlated with total IPSS, IPSS‐storage symptom (IPSS‐ss), IPSS‐voiding symptom (IPSS‐vs), and responses to the individual IPSS questions using Spearman (ρ) or Pearson (r) correlation coefficients, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple linear regression.

Results

TPV (r = 0.414, P = 0.001), TZV (r = 0.405, P = 0.001), IPP (r = 0.270, P = 0.04), and AFMS distance (r = 0.363, P = 0.004) correlated with total IPSS. In multiple linear regression analysis, TZV was the only predictor for total IPSS (P = 0.001), IPSS‐ss (P < 0.001), IPSS‐vs (P = 0.03), and the scores for the IPSS questions 1 (P = 0.03) and 4 (P = 0.001). TPV was a predictor of the scores for questions 2 (P = 0.003), 3 (P = 0.009), and 7 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Several MRI‐derived prostate measurements (TPV, TZV, IPP, AFMS distance) correlated with total IPSS. TZV was the only predictor for total IPSS based on multiple regression analysis.

Level of Evidence: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:917–925.
A global classification of vegetation based on NDVI, rainfall and temperature
Authors: Zhang Xianliang , Wu Shuang , Yan Xiaodong , Chen Zhenju
Published: August 2016

Vegetation types are generally classified based only on remote sensing vegetation data, and yet they cannot reflect their connection with climate. Climatic vegetation types reflect the regional vegetation characteristics in terms of climate. The distribution of global climatic vegetation types were identified by K‐means method based on vegetation and climate data. Fourteen climatic vegetation types were classified based on vegetation and climate data. Every type had distinct climate and vegetation characteristics. The regions with similar normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values but with different climate values such as tropical desert and temperate desert could be distinguished. Our new updated climatic vegetation types agreed ‘fair’ with Koeppen climate types and climate type of Zhang and Yan while agreed ‘good’ with vegetation types when checked with Kappa test.
Using Lean Techniques to Enable and Align the Workforce at Denver Health
Authors: Fingado Elizabeth
Published: August 2016

At Denver Health, an integrated health system in the heart of the capital of Colorado, lean tools and principles have been used for more than a decade. In that time, the organization has realized savings exceeding $210 million, with more than 30 percent of the workforce participating in structured lean activities. The organization has also improved quality outcomes through the reduction of waste from care processes. Feedback collected in 2012 from external reviewers indicated that although Denver Health had made significant strides in developing a robust improvement system, it would greatly benefit from the alignment of management efforts to the organization's long‐term strategy and to enhancing the ability of frontline staff to address the problems they encountered in their day‐to‐day tasks. To continue to improve performance and expand the benefits of lean techniques beyond the significant bottom‐line improvements seen through the reduction in waste, Denver Health has developed a long‐range strategic planning and deployment system and has taken steps to establish a robust problem‐solving management infrastructure. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Multicultural Business of CSR: How to Ensure a Positive Consumer Response
Authors: Abdulrazak Sham , Sh. Ahmad Fauziah , Quoquab Farzana
Published: August 2016

Though widely considered to be a force for good, corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs can spark negative fallout. What the leaders of a particular firm assume to be beneficial to society may not necessarily be perceived as such by their current and potential customers. In today's globalized market, consumers from varied cultural backgrounds are likely to espouse different norms, values, and beliefs, which will certainly influence their response to CSR programs. To ensure that social responsibility programs further organizational objectives without alienating customers, the leaders of profit‐making entities working in multicultural environments must learn to distinguish between the normative and instrumental grounds for CSR initiatives, factor in the cultural concerns of their stakeholders, and strategically assess the legitimacy of their CSR efforts early in the design and implementation stages. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How External Factors Influence Business Model Innovation: A Study of the Bosch Group and the Chinese Automotive Aftermarket
Authors: Wang Hua , Kimble Chris
Published: August 2016

Adapting existing business models for use in developing economies poses particular challenges for established firms. Yet, few studies have separated stable internal factors from the novel external factors that drive change in the existing business model. The Bosch Group's investment in the Chinese automobile aftermarket highlights the impact of four principal external factors—industry, technology, institutions, and market—on business model innovation. A proposed framework comprising these factors offers managers who are charged with expanding into a developing economy guidance in modifying an existing business model to suit local conditions. By so doing, they will be better equipped to ensure the attainment of organizational objectives in their new setting. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of 18F‐FDG PET/CT differentiating olfactory neuroblastoma from sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma
Authors: Elkhatib Ahmad H. , Soldatova Liuba , Carrau Ricardo L. , Hachem Ralph Abi , Ditzel Leo , Campbell Raewyn , Prevedello Daniel M. , Prevedello Luciano , Filho Leo F. S. Ditzel , Campbell Raewyn G.
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the potential contribution of positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) to help differentiate olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) from sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC).

Methods

Following approval by the institutional review board at the Wexner Medical Center at the Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, a pilot study with retrospective review of patients with biopsy‐proven diagnosis of ONB s and SNUC s was conducted. Staging PET/CT scans were reviewed to document the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax). A statistical comparison of SUVmax was performed.

Results

We identified 13 patients (7 with ONBs and 6 with SNUCs) with mean age 60.2 years who had undergone staging F‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) PET/CT of the primary tumor at the time of their diagnosis. Mean SUVmax was found to be five‐fold higher in SNUC patients (35.63, range 10.8–77.9) than in ONB patients (7.24, range 4.6–10.7) (P ≤ 0.00169).

Conclusion

Maximum standardized uptake value of 18F‐FDG PET/CT can be used to initially discriminate between ONB and SNUC. This finding may prove helpful to guide diagnostic and treatment planning when the histopathologic diagnosis is inconclusive.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 2016 127:321–324, 2017
Farmer Perceptions and Responses to Soil Degradation in Swaziland
Authors: Orchard Steven E. , Stringer Lindsay C. , Manyatsi Absalom M.
Published: August 2016

Soil degradation is globally concerning due to its adverse effects on the environment and agricultural production. Much of Swaziland is at risk from degradation. This paper assesses farmer perceptions and responses to soil degradation in 2002 and 2014, focusing on two land uses that underpin rural livelihoods: arable land and rangeland areas. It uses repeat household surveys and semi‐structured interviews, in two case study chiefdoms in the country's middleveld (KaBhudla and Engcayini) in the first longitudinal study of its kind. We find that observations of land degradation are perceived mainly through changes in land productivity, with chemical degradation occurring predominantly on arable land and physical degradation and erosion mainly in rangeland areas. Changes in rainfall are particularly important in determining responses. While perceptions of the causes and impacts of degradation largely concur with the scientific literature, responses were constrained by poor land availability, shorter and more unpredictable cropping seasons because of changing rains and low awareness, access to or knowledge of agricultural inputs. We suggest that sustainable arable land management can be enhanced through improved access to alternative sources of water, use of management practices that retain soil and moisture and greater access to agricultural inputs and capacity building to ensure their appropriate use. We suggest collaborative management for settlement planning that integrates soil conservation and livestock management strategies such as controlled stocking levels and rotational grazing could improve land quality in rangeland areas. Together, these approaches can help land users to better manage change. © 2016 The Authors. Land Degradation & Development published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Robust capacity expansion of a network under demand uncertainty: A bi‐objective approach
Authors: Aissi Hassene , Vanderpooten Daniel
Published: August 2016

This paper deals with the problem of capacity expansion of a network under independent uncertain demands defined by interval sets. In this context, decisions about capacity expansion must be made before the demands are revealed. Standard robust models require the definition of an uncertainty domain and look for the minimum cost solution able to satisfy any demand within this domain. We propose, justify, and illustrate an alternative robust model based on a bi‐objective formulation. Therefore, in addition to the cost criterion, we consider a second criterion, related to the Quality of Service, which measures the ability of a solution to handle any demand. The decision‐maker can be interested in efficient solutions offering a compromise between these criteria. We study the complexity of the enumeration of the corresponding nondominated set, and propose exact and approximation algorithms. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 68(3), 185–199 2016
A posteriori error estimate for finite volume element method of the parabolic equations
Authors: Chen Chuanjun , Zhao Xin
Published: August 2016

In this article, residual‐type a posteriori error estimates are studied for finite volume element (FVE) method of parabolic equations. Residual‐type a posteriori error estimator is constructed and the reliable and efficient bounds for the error estimator are established. Residual‐type a posteriori error estimator can be used to assess the accuracy of the FVE solutions in practical applications. Some numerical examples are provided to confirm the theoretical results. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 33: 259–275, 2017
Assessing the effects of 35 European‐derived BMI‐associated SNPs in Mexican children
Authors: Abadi Arkan , Peralta‐Romero Jesus , Suarez Fernando , Gomez‐Zamudio Jaime , Burguete‐Garcia Ana I. , Cruz Miguel , Meyre David
Published: August 2016

Objective

The prevalence of obesity in Mexico has increased at an alarming rate in both adults and children. This study was undertaken to test in Mexican children the effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) that have been associated with body mass index (BMI) and obesity in Europeans.

Methods

School‐age children (N = 1,559, 5‐17 years) were recruited in Mexico City. Thirty‐five SNPs with established effects on BMI and obesity were genotyped and analyzed individually and as a combined gene score (GS).

Results

SNPs in FAIM2 (rs7138803), GPRC5BB (rs12444979), MTIF3 (rs4771122), TFAP2B (rs987237), TMEM18 (rs7561317), and the GS were significantly associated with BMI. The GS explained 0.9% of the variance of BMI. Also, SNPs in LRRN6C (rs10968576) and MC4R (rs17782313) were significantly associated with overweight and obesity categories, respectively. Importantly, the effect allele frequency of 26/35 SNPs (74.3%) differed significantly between Mexican children and European adults. No significant gene × environment or gene × gene interactions were detected after Bonferroni adjustment.

Conclusions

Several SNPs first associated with BMI/obesity in European adults replicated well in Mexican children, and investigating differences in the distribution of effect alleles across ethnic populations may shed light on genetic susceptibilities of different populations to obesity.
Regioselective Synthesis of a Family of β‐Lactams Bearing a Triazole Moiety as Potential Apoptosis Inhibitors
Authors: Garrido Maria , Corredor Miriam , Orzáez Mar , Alfonso Ignacio , Messeguer Angel
Published: August 2016

Apoptosis is a biological process important to several human diseases; it is strongly regulated through protein–protein interactions and complex formation. We previously reported the synthesis of apoptosis inhibitors bearing an exocyclic triazole amide isoster by using an Ugi four‐component coupling reaction (Ugi‐4CC), followed by a base‐promoted intramolecular cyclization. Depending on the substitution patterns and the reaction conditions, this cyclization forms the six‐ or four‐membered ring. Two compounds bearing the β‐lactam scaffold turned out to be the most potent inhibitors. This encouraged us to optimize the modulation of the cyclization, and prepare a library of 15 β‐lactams with total regioselectivity. Moreover, we aimed to improve the bioavailability of these compounds through the introduction of diversity at different substitution positions. The activity of these compounds as apoptosis inhibitors in cellular extracts has been evaluated, showing an increase in their potency.
Induction of an Infinite Periodic Minimal Surface by Endowing An Amphiphilic Zwitterion with Halogen‐Bond Ability
Authors: Ichikawa Takahiro , Okafuji Akiyoshi , Kato Takashi , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: August 2016

We have designed an amphiphilic zwitterion with an iodine‐substituted imidazolium cation. Although it forms a layered assembly with flat interfaces, the addition of an equimolar amount of bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide results in the formation of a bicontinuous cubic liquid‐crystalline assembly with a primitive‐type infinite periodic minimal surface, where its zwitterionic headgroup sits regularly. IR measurements revealed that halogen bond between the iodine atoms on the imidazolium cation and the anions is involved in its molecular‐assembly behavior. The present results clearly indicate the potential utility of halogen bonding to control the dimensionality and continuity of the ionic/nonionic interface of amphiphiles in bulk and consequent mesophase patterns, which may be a significant new molecular technology for precisely arranging functional molecules on a 3D continuous interfaces.
The pregnancy journey for women with type 1 diabetes: a qualitative model from contemplation to motherhood
Authors: Edwards Helen , Speight Jane , Bridgman Heather , Skinner Timothy C
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study is to describe and develop a model of the pregnancy journey for women with type 1 diabetes.

We undertook a thematic analysis of written interactions (n = 200; n = 2060 text excerpts) with an online counselling support service from 93 women with type 1 diabetes.

Seven possible discrete phases in the pregnancy journey were revealed: Contemplation, Pregnancy planning, Conception, Pregnancy, Delivery/birth, and Motherhood or Pregnancy loss. Eight common themes were identified, varying in importance across phases. Diabetes‐specific distress was most evident during Contemplation and Motherhood. During pregnancy, social identity and peer support were paramount. Negative emotions in Pregnancy, while connected to diabetes, also centred on the unborn baby. In Motherhood, diabetes‐specific distress and depressed mood increased. Medicalisation was expected and offered reassurance during Pregnancy; however, some women still worried, with peer support offering the most reassurance.

In conclusion, women with type 1 diabetes potentially experience seven distinct phases of the pregnancy journey, with eight themes varying in significance across phases. Contemplation begins well before Planning or Conception, and women may seek support from non‐mainstream sources. Mental health and emotional well‐being varies qualitatively and quantitatively across phases (focusing on pregnancy‐related distress, diabetes‐specific distress and general maternal well‐being), indicating a need for targeted assessment and support across the pregnancy journey. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons.
Stoichiometric Control of SiOx Thin Films Grown by Reactive Magnetron Sputtering at Oblique Angles
Authors: Garcia‐Valenzuela Aurelio , Alvarez Rafael , Lopez‐Santos Carmen , Ferrer Francisco J. , Rico Victor , Guillen Elena , Alcon‐Camas Mercedes , Escobar‐Galindo Ramon , Gonzalez‐Elipe Agustin R. , Palmero Alberto
Published: August 2016

The deposition of SiOx () compound thin films by the reactive magnetron sputtering technique at oblique angles is studied from both theoretical and experimental points of view. A simple mathematical formula that links the film stoichiometry and the deposition conditions is deduced. Numerous experiments have been carried out to test this formula at different deposition pressures and oblique angle geometries obtaining a fairly good agreement in all studied conditions. It is found that, at low deposition pressures, the proportion of oxygen with respect to silicon in the film increases a factor of ∼5 when solely tilting the film substrate with respect to the target, whereas at high pressures the film stoichiometry depends very weakly on the tilt angle. This behavior is explained by considering the fundamental processes mediating the growth of the film by this technique.
First‐principles prediction of mechanical and bonding characteristics of new T2 superconductor Ta5GeB2
Authors: Hadi M. A. , Nasir M. T. , Roknuzzaman M. , Rayhan M. A. , Naqib S. H. , Islam A. K. M. A.
Published: August 2016

In the present paper, density functional theory (DFT) based first‐principles methods are applied to investigate the mechanical and bonding properties of the newly synthesized T2 phase superconductor Ta5GeB2 for the first time. The calculated lattice constants are in reasonable agreement with the experiment. The elastic constants (Cij), bulk modulus (B), shear modulus (G), Young's modulus (Y), Poisson's ratio (v), Pugh ratio (G/B), and elastic anisotropy factor A of Ta5GeB2 are calculated and used to explore the mechanical behavior of the compound. To give an explanation of the bonding nature of this new ternary tetragonal system, the band structure, density of states, and Mulliken atomic population are investigated. The estimated Debye temperature and Vickers hardness are also used to justify both the mechanical and bonding properties of Ta5GeB2.
High‐pressure optical study of small‐diameter chirality‐enriched single‐wall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Krottenmüller M. , Gao W. , Anis B. , Kono J. , Kuntscher C. A.
Published: August 2016

We have investigated the mechanical stability of small‐diameter single‐wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films via optical absorption spectroscopy under high pressure. The studied sample was enriched in (6,5) SWCNTs, in order to observe sharp optical transitions even at high pressures. We observed two well‐defined absorption bands in the studied frequency range, both of which red‐shifted with increasing pressure. The rate of the pressure‐induced red shift of one absorption band was found to change dramatically at 8 GPa, which we interpret as a structural phase transition of the nanotubes’ cross‐section from circular to oval. By comparing the data with that for a film of mixed‐chirality SWCNTs with an average diameter of 1.4 nm, we conclude that smaller‐diameter SWCNTs have higher mechanical stability, which is consistent with theoretical expectations. No collapse of (6,5) SWCNTs was observed up to 22 GPa.
A numerical study of deep convection in tropical cyclones
Authors: Kilroy Gerard , Smith Roger K.
Published: August 2016

Idealized numerical model simulations are used to investigate the generation and evolution of vertical vorticity by deep convection in a warm‐cored vortex of near‐tropical‐storm strength. Deep convective updraughts are initiated by thermal perturbations located at different radii from the vortex axis. It is found that, as the location of the thermal perturbation is moved away from the axis of rotation, the updraught that results becomes stronger, the cyclonic vorticity anomaly generated by the updraught becomes weaker, the structure of the vorticity anomaly changes markedly and the depth of the anomaly increases. For an updraught along or near the vortex axis, the vorticity anomaly has the structure of a monopole and little or no anticyclonic vorticity is generated in the core. Vorticity dipoles are generated in updraughts near or beyond the radius of maximum tangential wind speed and this structure reverses in sign with height. In all cases, the vorticity anomalies persist long after the initial updraught has decayed. Implications of the results for understanding the vorticity consolidation during tropical cyclogenesis are discussed.

The effects of eddy momentum fluxes associated with a single updraught on the tangential‐mean velocity tendency are investigated and a conceptual framework for the interpretation of these eddy fluxes is given. The simulations are used to appraise long‐standing ideas suggesting that latent heat release in deep convection occurring in the high inertial stability region of a vortex core is ‘more efficient’ than deep convection outside the core in producing temperature rise in the updraught.
Design of a high‐bandwidth tripod scanner for high speed atomic force microscopy
Authors: Yang Chen , Yan Jihong , Dukic Maja , Hosseini Nahid , Zhao Jie , Fantner Georg E.
Published: August 2016

Tip‐scanning high‐speed atomic force microscopes (HS‐AFMs) have several advantages over their sample‐scanning counterparts. Firstly, they can be used on samples of almost arbitrary size since the high imaging bandwidth of the system is immune to the added mass of the sample and its holder. Depending on their layouts, they also enable the use of several tip‐scanning HS‐AFMs in combination. However, the need for tracking the cantilever with the readout laser makes designing tip‐scanning HS‐AFMs difficult. This often results in a reduced resonance frequency of the HS‐AFM scanner, or a complex and large set of precision flexures. Here, we present a compact, simple HS‐AFM designed for integrating the self‐sensing cantilever into the tip‐scanning configuration, so that the difficulty of tracking small cantilever by laser beam is avoided. The position of cantilever is placed to the end of whole structure, hence making the optical viewing of the cantilever possible. As the core component of proposed system, a high bandwidth tripod scanner is designed, with a scan size of 5.8 µm × 5.8 µm and a vertical travel range of 5.9 µm. The hysteresis of the piezoactuators in X‐ and Y‐axes are linearized using input shaping technique. To reduce in‐plane crosstalk and vibration‐related dynamics, we implement both filters and compensators on a field programmable analog array. Based on these, images with 512 × 256 pixels are successfully obtained at scan rates up to 1024 lines/s, corresponding to a 4 mm/stip velocity. SCANNING 38:889–900, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dihydromyricetin suppresses inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo through inhibition of IKKβ activity in macrophages
Authors: Wang Rui , Pi Jiang , Su Xiaohui , Liu Juan , Zeng Xing , Wong Ivan , Huang Lufen , Zhou Hua , Cai Jiye , Li Ting , Liu Liang
Published: August 2016

Dihydromyricetin (DMY) a flavonoid derived from medicinal plant Ampelopsis grossedentata, possesses anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects in vitro, however, the in vivo anti‐inflammatory action of DMY remains unknown. In the current study, carrageenan‐induced paw edema in rat, an acute inflammation model, and RAW264.7 macrophages activated by LPS were employed to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory potency of DMY in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that DMY significantly attenuated rat paw edema induced by carrageenan. Also, DMY markedly inhibited NO secretion, iNOS, and COX‐2 protein expression, as well as p65 phosphorylation via suppression of IKKβ activity and IKKα/β phosphorylation in RAW264.7 cells. And using high resolution Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), we also proved that DMY prevented morphological change and membrane alterations of RAW 264.7 macrophages caused by LPS stimulation. As activation of macrophages is one of major factors in carrageenan‐induced paw edema of rats, the anti‐inflammatory action of DMY is suggested to be closely associated with suppression of macrophage activation. These findings indicate that DMY is valuable of being further investigated as a candidate new agent for treating inflammatory conditions, and suggest that AFM could be a powerful nanotool for anti‐inflammatory investigations. SCANNING 38:901–912, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Residual risk and waste in donated blood with pooled nucleic acid testing
Authors: Aprahamian Hrayer , Bish Douglas R. , Bish Ebru K.
Published: August 2016

An accurate estimation of the residual risk of transfusion‐transmittable infections (TTIs), which includes the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV, HCV), among others, is essential, as it provides the basis for blood screening assay selection. While the highly sensitive nucleic acid testing (NAT) technology has recently become available, it is highly costly. As a result, in most countries, including the United States, the current practice for human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus screening in donated blood is to use pooled NAT. Pooling substantially reduces the number of tests required, especially for TTIs with low prevalence rates. However, pooling also reduces the test's sensitivity, because the viral load of an infected sample might be diluted by the other samples in the pool to the point that it is not detectable by NAT, leading to potential TTIs. Infection‐free blood may also be falsely discarded, resulting in wasted blood. We derive expressions for the residual risk, expected number of tests, and expected amount of blood wasted for various two‐stage pooled testing schemes, including Dorfman‐type and array‐based testing, considering infection progression, infectivity of the blood unit, and imperfect tests under the dilution effect and measurement errors. We then calibrate our model using published data and perform a case study. Our study offers key insights on how pooled NAT, used within different testing schemes, contributes to the safety and cost of blood. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.