bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Evaluation in Global Perspective: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Recent Literature
Authors: Pitt Catherine , Goodman Catherine , Hanson Kara
Published: January 2016

We present a bibliometric analysis of recently published full economic evaluations of health interventions and reflect critically on the implications of our findings for this growing field. We created a database drawing on 14 health, economic, and/or general literature databases for articles published between 1 January 2012 and 3 May 2014 and identified 2844 economic evaluations meeting our criteria. We present findings regarding the sensitivity, specificity, and added value of searches in the different databases. We examine the distribution of publications between countries, regions, and health areas studied and compare the relative volume of research with disease burden. We analyse authors' country and institutional affiliations, journals and journal type, language, and type of economic evaluation conducted. More than 1200 economic evaluations were published annually, of which 4% addressed low‐income countries, 4% lower‐middle‐income countries, 14% upper‐middle‐income countries, and 83% high‐income countries. Across country income levels, 53, 54, 86, and 100% of articles, respectively, included an author based in a country within the income level studied. Biomedical journals published 74% of economic evaluations. The volume of research across health areas correlates more closely with disease burden in high‐income than in low‐income and middle‐income countries. Our findings provide an empirical basis for further study on methods, research prioritization, and capacity development in health economic evaluation.
Carboxylesterase 2 prevents liver steatosis by modulating lipolysis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and lipogenesis and is regulated by hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha in mice
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Zalzala Munaf , Jadhav Kavita , Xu Yang , Kasumov Takhar , Yin Liya , Zhang Yanqiao
Published: January 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disease that ranges from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). So far, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Here, we show that hepatic carboxylesterase 2 (CES2) is markedly reduced in NASH patients, diabetic db/db mice, and high‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed mice. Restoration of hepatic CES2 expression in db/db or HFD‐fed mice markedly ameliorates liver steatosis and insulin resistance. In contrast, knockdown of hepatic CES2 causes liver steatosis and damage in chow‐ or Western diet‐fed C57BL/6 mice. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that CES2 has triglyceride hydrolase activity. As a result, gain of hepatic CES2 function increases fatty acid oxidation and inhibits lipogenesis, whereas loss of hepatic CES2 stimulates lipogenesis by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress. We further show that loss of hepatic CES2 stimulates lipogenesis in a sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 1 (SREBP‐1)‐dependent manner. Finally, we show that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF‐4α) plays a key role in controlling hepatic CES2 expression in diabetes, obesity, or NASH. Conclusion: CES2 plays a protective role in development of NAFLD. Targeting the HNF‐4α/CES2 pathway may be useful for treatment of NAFLD. (Hepatology 2016;63:1860‐1874)
Rs895819 in MIR27A improves the predictive value of DPYD variants to identify patients at risk of severe fluoropyrimidine‐associated toxicity
Authors: Meulendijks Didier , Henricks Linda M. , Amstutz Ursula , Froehlich Tanja K. , Largiadèr Carlo R. , Beijnen Jos H. , de Boer Anthonius , Deenen Maarten J. , Cats Annemieke , Schellens Jan H.M.
Published: January 2016

The objective of this study was to determine whether genotyping of MIR27A polymorphisms rs895819A>G and rs11671784C>T can be used to improve the predictive value of DPYD variants to identify patients at risk of severe fluoropyrimidine‐associated toxicity (FP‐toxicity). Patients treated previously in a prospective study with fluoropyrimidine‐based chemotherapy were genotyped for rs895819 and rs11671784, and DPYD c.2846A>T, c.1679T>G, c.1129‐5923C>G and c.1601G>A. The predictive value of MIR27A variants for early‐onset grade ≥3 FP‐toxicity, alone or in combination with DPYD variants, was tested in multivariable logistic regression models. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed, including previously published data. A total of 1,592 patients were included. Allele frequencies of rs895819 and rs11671784 were 0.331 and 0.020, respectively. In DPYD wild‐type patients, MIR27A variants did not affect risk of FP‐toxicity (OR 1.3 for ≥1 variant MIR27A allele vs. none, 95% CI: 0.87–1.82, p = 0.228). In contrast, in patients carrying DPYD variants, the presence of ≥1 rs895819 variant allele was associated with increased risk of FP‐toxicity (OR 4.9, 95% CI: 1.24–19.7, p = 0.023). Rs11671784 was not associated with FP‐toxicity (OR 2.9, 95% CI: 0.47−18.0, p = 0.253). Patients carrying a DPYD variant and rs895819 were at increased risk of FP‐toxicity compared to patients wild type for rs895819 and DPYD (OR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.27–4.37, p = 0.007), while patients with a DPYD variant but without a MIR27A variant were not (OR 0.3 95% CI: 0.06−1.17, p = 0.081). In meta‐analysis, rs895819 remained significantly associated with FP‐toxicity in DPYD variant allele carriers, OR 5.4 (95% CI: 1.83–15.7, p = 0.002). This study demonstrates the clinical validity of combined MIR27A/DPYD screening to identify patients at risk of severe FP‐toxicity.
Adherence to the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research recommendations and breast cancer risk
Authors: Harris Holly R. , Bergkvist Leif , Wolk Alicja
Published: January 2016

The World Cancer Research Fund/American Association for Cancer Research (WCRF/AICR) has published eight nutrition‐related recommendations for the prevention of cancer. However, few prospective studies have examined these recommendations by breast cancer hormone receptor subtype and only one case–control study has included the dietary supplements recommendation in their evaluation. We investigated whether adherence to the WCRF/AICR cancer prevention recommendations was associated with breast cancer incidence, overall and by hormone receptor subtype, in the Swedish Mammography Cohort. Among 31,514 primarily postmenopausal women diet and lifestyle factors were assessed with a self‐administered food frequency questionnaire. A score was constructed based on adherence to the recommendations for body fatness, physical activity, energy density, plant foods, animal foods, alcoholic drinks and dietary supplements (score range 0–7). Cox proportional hazard models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). During 15 years of follow‐up 1,388 cases of breast cancer were identified. Women who met six to seven recommendations had a 51% decreased risk of breast cancer compared to women meeting only zero to two recommendations (95% CI = 0.35–0.70). The association between each additional recommendation met and breast cancer risk was strongest for the ER‐positive/PR‐positive subtype (HR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.79–0.94), while for the ER‐negative/PR‐negative subtype the individual recommendations regarding plant and animal foods were most strongly associated with reduced risk. Our findings support that adherence to the WCRF/AICR recommendations reduces breast cancer risk in a population of primarily postmenopausal women. Promoting these recommendations to the public could help reduce breast cancer incidence.
Biomarkers in bladder cancer: A metabolomic approach using in vitro and ex vivo model systems
Authors: Rodrigues Daniela , Jerónimo Carmen , Henrique Rui , Belo Luís , de Lourdes Bastos Maria , de Pinho Paula Guedes , Carvalho Márcia
Published: January 2016

Metabolomics has recently proved to be useful in the area of biomarker discovery for cancers in which early diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers are urgently needed, as is the case of bladder cancer (BC). This article presents a comprehensive review of the literature on the metabolomic studies on BC, highlighting metabolic pathways perturbed in this disease and the altered metabolites as potential biomarkers for BC detection. Current disease model systems used in the study of BC metabolome include in vitro‐cultured cancer cells, ex vivo neoplastic bladder tissues and biological fluids, mainly urine but also blood serum/plasma, from BC patients. The major advantages and drawbacks of each model system are discussed. Based on available data, it seems that BC metabolic signature is mainly characterized by alterations in metabolites related to energy metabolic pathways, particularly glycolysis, amino acid and fatty acid metabolism, known to be crucial for cell proliferation, as well as glutathione metabolism, known to be determinant in maintaining cellular redox balance. In addition, purine and pyrimidine metabolism as well as carnitine species were found to be altered in BC. Finally, it is emphasized that, despite the progress made in respect to novel biomarkers for BC diagnosis, there are still some challenges and limitations that should be addressed in future metabolomic studies to ensure their translatability to clinical practice.
Self‐esteem discrepancies and identity‐expressive consumption: Evidence from Norwegian adolescents
Authors: Tunca Burak
Published: January 2016

Prior research established that simultaneously holding discrepant explicit (deliberate, controlled) and implicit (automatic, uncontrolled) self‐esteem gives rise to self‐enhancing behaviours. Given that individuals tend to enhance their self‐concepts with brands that are associated with positive identities, this study examined whether self‐esteem discrepancy was related to the extent to which individuals developed connections with brands that are associated with their in‐groups. Findings from an adolescent sample (ages 16–18) indicated that adolescents with larger discrepancies between explicit and implicit self‐esteem were more likely to construct their self‐concepts using in‐group‐linked brands.
Impression management and achievement motivation: Investigating substantive links
Authors: Elliot Andrew J. , Aldhobaiban Nawal , Murayama Kou , Kobeisy Ahmed , Gocłowska Małgorzata A. , Khyat Aber
Published: January 2016

In this research, we investigate impression management (IM) as a substantive personality variable by linking it to differentiated achievement motivation constructs, namely achievement motives (workmastery, competitiveness, fear of failure) and achievement goals (mastery‐approach, mastery‐avoidance, performance‐approach, performance‐avoidance). Study 1 revealed that IM was a positive predictor of workmastery and a negative predictor of competitiveness (with and without self‐deceptive enhancement (SDE) controlled). Studies 2a and 2b revealed that IM was a positive predictor of mastery‐approach goals and mastery‐avoidance goals (without and, in Study 2b, with SDE controlled). These findings highlight the value of conceptualising and utilising IM as a personality variable in its own right and shed light on the nature of the achievement motive and achievement goal constructs.
Insight into the role of histidine in RNR motif of protein component of RNase P of M. tuberculosis in catalysis
Authors: Singh Alla , Ramteke Anup K. , Afroz Tariq , Batra Janendra K.
Published: January 2016

RNase P, a ribonucleoprotein endoribonuclease, is involved in the 5′ end processing of pre‐tRNAs, with its RNA component being the catalytic subunit. It is an essential enzyme. All bacterial RNase Ps have one RNA and one protein component. A conserved RNR motif in bacterial RNase P protein components is involved in their interaction with the RNA component. In this work, we have reconstituted the RNase P of M. tuberculosis in vitro and investigated the role of a histidine in the RNR motif in its catalysis. We expressed the protein and RNA components of mycobacterial RNase P in E. coli, purified them, and reconstituted the holoenzyme in vitro. The histidine in RNR motif was mutated to alanine and asparagine by site‐directed mutagenesis. The RNA component alone showed activity on pre‐tRNAala substrate at high magnesium concentrations. The RNA and protein components associated together to manifest catalytic activity at low magnesium concentrations. The histidine 67 in the RNR motif of M. tuberculosis RNase P protein component was found to be important for the catalytic activity and stability of the enzyme. Generally, the RNase P of M. tuberculosis functions like other bacterial enzymes. The histidine in the RNR motif of M. tuberculosis appears to be able to substitute optimally for asparagine found in the majority of the protein components of other bacterial RNase P enzymes. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 68(3):178–189, 2016
Effect of glycerol concentrations on the mechanical properties of additive manufactured porous calcium polyphosphate structures for bone substitute applications
Authors: Sheydaeian Esmat , Vlasea Mihaela , Woo Ami , Pilliar Robert , Hu Eugene , Toyserkani Ehsan
Published: January 2016

This article addresses the effects of glycerol (GLY) concentrations on the mechanical properties of calcium polyphosphate (CPP) bone substitute structures manufactured using binder jetting additive manufacturing. To achieve this goal, nine types of water‐based binder solutions were prepared with 10, 12.5, and 15 wt % GLY liquid‐binding agent, mixed, respectively, with 0, 0.75, and 1.5 wt % ethylene glycol diacetate (EGD) flow enhancer. The print quality of each of the solutions was established quantitatively using an image processing algorithm. The print quality analysis narrowed down the solutions to three batches containing 1.5 wt % EGD and variable amount of GLY. These solutions were used to manufacture porous CPP bone substitute samples, which were characterized physically to determine shrinkage, porosity, microstructure, and compression strength. The 12.5 wt % GLY, 1.5 wt % EGD solution resulted in the highest mechanical strength after sintering (34.6 ± 5.8 MPa), illustrating similar mechanical properties when compared to previous studies (33.9 ± 6.3 MPa) of additively manufactured CPP bone substitutes using a commercially available binder. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 828–835, 2017.
Clinical, mechanical, and immunohistopathological effects of tissue adhesives on the colon: An in‐vivo study
Authors: Vakalopoulos Konstantinos A. , Wu Zhouqiao , Kroese Leonard F. , van der Horst Paul H. , Lam King H. , Dodou Dimitra , Jeekel Johannes J. , Lange Johan F.
Published: January 2016

Background

Tissue adhesives may be useful for sealing bowel anastomoses by preventing anastomotic leakage. Prior to clinical implementation, an in‐depth analysis of the clinical and immunohistopathological effects of tissue adhesives on the target tissue and of the mechanical strength of the adhesive bond in an in vivo model is needed.

Materials and methods

In 84 rats, two bowel segments were glued using one of the following tissue adhesive: Bioglue, Gelatin‐resorcinol‐formaldehyde (GRF), Glubran 2, Histoacryl Flex, Omnex, Duraseal Xact, or Tissucol. Rats were followed for 7 or 28 days. Endpoints were clinical complication rate, mechanical strength, and immunohistopathological reactions.

Results

Of the seven tissue adhesives, GRF and Bioglue showed the highest rates of bowel wall destruction and ileus and the most severe immunohistopathological tissue reactions at 7 and 28 days. Cyanoacrylates (Histoacryl Flex, Omnex, Glubran 2) showed high mechanical strength and mild immunohistopathological reactions at 7 and 28 days. Duraseal Xact and Tissucol were the most inert tissue adhesives, but exhibited low mechanical strength. At 28 days, mechanical strength was significantly correlated to CD8, CD68, and Ki67 cell counts.

Conclusion

Based on the clinical and immunohistopathological outcomes, GRF and Bioglue were found to be the least suitable tissue adhesives for colonic use. Duraseal Xact and Tissucol were inert but also showed low mechanical strength. Cyanoacrylates exhibited mild clinical and immunohistopathological effects while maintaining high strength, which makes them promising as colonic sealants. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 846–854, 2017.
Coexistence of Aflatoxicosis with Protein Malnutrition Worsens Hepatic Oxidative Damage in Rats
Authors: Rotimi Oluwakemi A. , Rotimi Solomon O. , Oluwafemi Flora , Ademuyiwa Oladipo , Balogun Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2016

To investigate the effects of the coexistence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and protein malnutrition in rat liver, weanling rats were fed either normal protein diet (20% protein), low‐protein (PEM) diet (5%), normal protein diet + 40 ppb AFB1, or low‐protein diet + 40 ppb AFB1. After 8 weeks, biomarkers of hepatic functions and oxidative stress, caspase‐3 activity, and tumor suppressor protein 53 (p53) were determined spectrophotometrically. Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD‐PCR) was employed to determine genomic alterations among the groups. Coexistence of aflatoxicosis and PEM significantly decreased glutathione, glutathione‐S‐transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, while it increased peroxidase and catalase. RAPD‐PCR showed genomic alterations that were associated with significant increases in p53 level and caspase‐3 activity in rats fed PEM diet + AFB1. In conclusion, the coexistence of aflatoxicosis and protein malnutrition induced oxidative stress with concomitant genomic alterations in the liver of weanling rats.
Radiosynthesis of the iodine‐124 labeled Hsp90 inhibitor PU‐H71
Authors: Taldone Tony , Zatorska Danuta , Ochiana Stefan O. , Smith‐Jones Peter , Koziorowski Jacek , Dunphy Mark P. , Zanzonico Pat , Bolaender Alexander , Lewis Jason S. , Larson Steven M. , Chiosis Gabriela , Pillarsetty Naga Vara Kishore
Published: January 2016

Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) is an ATP dependent molecular chaperone protein whose function is critical for maintaining several key proteins involved in survival and proliferation of cancer cells. PU‐H71 (1), is a potent purine‐scaffold based ATP pocket binding Hsp90 inhibitor which has been shown to have potent activity in a broad range of in vivo cancer models and is currently in Phase I clinical trials in patients with advanced solid malignancies, lymphomas, and myeloproliferative neoplasms. In this report, we describe the radiosynthesis of [124I]‐PU‐H71(5); this was synthesized from the corresponding Boc‐protected stannane precursor 3 by iododestannylation with [124I]‐NaI using chloramine‐T as an oxidant for 2 min, followed by Boc deprotection with 6 N HCl at 50 °C for 30 min to yield the final compound. The final product 5 was purified using HPLC and was isolated with an overall yield of 55 ± 6% (n = 6, isolated) from 3, and >98% purity and an average specific activity of 980 mCi/µmol. Our report sets the stage for the introduction of [124I]‐PU‐H71 as a potential non‐invasive probe for understanding biodistribution and pharmacokinetics of PU‐H71 in living subjects using positron emission tomography imaging.
Solution NMR characterization of apical membrane antigen 1 and small molecule interactions as a basis for designing new antimalarials
Authors: Krishnarjuna Bankala , Lim San Sui , Devine Shane M. , Debono Cael O. , Lam Raymond , Chandrashekaran Indu R. , Jaipuria Garima , Yagi Hiromasa , Atreya Hanudatta S. , Scanlon Martin J. , MacRaild Christopher A. , Scammells Peter J. , Norton Raymond S.
Published: January 2016

Plasmodium falciparum apical membrane antigen 1 (PfAMA1) plays an important role in the invasion by merozoites of human red blood cells during a malaria infection. A key region of PfAMA1 is a conserved hydrophobic cleft formed by 12 hydrophobic residues. As anti‐apical membrane antigen 1 antibodies and other inhibitory molecules that target this hydrophobic cleft are able to block the invasion process, PfAMA1 is an attractive target for the development of strain‐transcending antimalarial agents. As solution nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy is a valuable technique for the rapid characterization of protein–ligand interactions, we have determined the sequence‐specific backbone assignments for PfAMA1 from two P. falciparum strains, FVO and 3D7. Both selective labelling and unlabelling strategies were used to complement triple‐resonance experiments in order to facilitate the assignment process. We have then used these assignments for mapping the binding sites for small molecules, including benzimidazoles, pyrazoles and 2‐aminothiazoles, which were selected on the basis of their affinities measured from surface plasmon resonance binding experiments. Among the compounds tested, benzimidazoles showed binding to a similar region on both FVO and 3D7 PfAMA1, suggesting that these compounds are promising scaffolds for the development of novel PfAMA1 inhibitors. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Multilevel Analysis of the Relationship between Shared Leadership and Creativity in Inter‐Organizational Teams
Authors: Gu Jibao , Chen Zhi , Huang Qian , Liu Hefu , Huang Shenglan
Published: January 2016

An inter‐organizational team, which consists of diverse members from different organizations to conduct an initiative, has been widely treated as a critical method to improve organizational innovation. This study proposes a multilevel model to test the relationship between shared leadership and creativity at both team‐ and individual level in the context of inter‐organizational teams. Multisource data were collected from 53 inter‐organizational teams. We obtain the following findings: first, shared leadership is positively related to both team creativity and individual creativity via knowledge sharing. Second, task interdependence positively moderates the relationship between shared leadership and knowledge sharing. Third, task interdependence positively moderates the relationship between knowledge sharing and team creativity, but does not moderate the relationship between knowledge sharing and individual creativity. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of the findings.
Temperature effect on triacylglycerol species in seed oil from high stearic sunflower lines with different genetic backgrounds
Authors: Izquierdo Natalia G , Martínez‐Force Enrique , Garcés Rafael , Aguirrezábal Luis AN , Zambelli Andrés , Reid Roberto
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

This study characterized the influence of temperature during grain filling on the saturated fatty acid distribution in triacylglycerol molecules from high stearic sunflower lines with different genetic backgrounds. Two growth chamber experiments were conducted with day/night temperatures of 16/16, 26/16, 26/26 and 32/26 °C.

RESULTS

In all genotypes, independently of the genetic background, higher temperatures increased palmitic and oleic acid and reduced linoleic acid concentrations. Increasing night temperature produced an increase in saturated‐unsaturated‐saturated species, indicating a more symmetrical distribution of saturated fatty acids. The solid fat index was more affected by temperature during grain filling in lines with high linoleic than high oleic background. Higher variations in symmetry among night temperatures were observed in lines with high oleic background, which are more stable in fatty acid composition.

CONCLUSION

The effect of temperature on triacylglycerol composition is not completely explained by its effect on fatty acid composition. Thus night temperature affects oil properties via its effects on fatty acid synthesis and on the distribution of fatty acids in the triacylglycerol molecules. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Corrosion behaviour of 304L stainless steel and 5754 aluminium alloy for intermediate‐level radioactive waste containers
Authors: André B. , Fiers B. , Creton N. , Dirand C. , Poinsot D. , Faure S. , Chevalier S.
Published: January 2016

300 series stainless steels are the most common materials used in the manufacture of container for the intermediate storage of low‐ and intermediate‐level radioactive wastes. Today, aluminium alloys are being considered as an alternative as they would enable gamma measurements to be performed directly through the container. However, reactions which occur during storage, lead to the formation of corrosive species. An investigation and comparison of the corrosion behaviour of a 5754 aluminium alloy container with that of a 304L stainless steel container was realised. Samples were introduced in corrosive environment during several months and then characterised by SEM. Results allow or not to validate the use of this aluminium alloy as nuclear container material.
Effects of Zr, Nb, or Si addition on the microstructural, mechanical, and corrosion resistance of TiCN hard coatings
Authors: Constantin L. , Braic M. , Dinu M. , Balaceanu M. , Braic V. , Farcau C. , Vladescu A.
Published: January 2016

Stoichiometric TiZrCN, TiNbCN, and TiSiCN coatings, with Zr, Nb, or Si as alloying elements, were deposited on Si and M2 high speed steel substrates by the cathodic arc technique in a mixture of N2 and CH4 gases. Coatings with a C/N ratio value of about 0.5 have been prepared and comparatively investigated for elemental and phase composition, texture, adhesion, and anticorrosive properties. All coatings consisted of fcc solid solutions, with an (111) preferred orientation. The addition of either Zr, Nb, or Si in the basic structure of TiCN coatings resulted in adhesion enhancement (critical loads in the range 20–30 N) and increased corrosion resistance, as tested in 3.5% NaCl solution.
The relationship between microstructure and corrosion behaviors of Mg‐3Y‐xNd alloys (x = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 wt%)
Authors: Jiang Q.‐T. , Li J.‐R. , Ma X.‐M. , Li Y.‐T. , Hou B.‐R.
Published: January 2016

Mg‐3Y‐xNd (x = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 wt%) alloys were investigated to reveal relationship between the microstructure and corrosion resistance. The microstructure and precipitated phases were analyzed by optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The volume fraction of Mg14Y2Nd phase increased with the addition of Nd‐content, whereas the Mg3(Y,Nd) phase decreased. The electrochemical corrosion current density decreased from 723.14 µA · cm−2 to 297.55 µA · cm−2. The open circuit potential (OCP) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) confirmed that Mg‐3Y‐1.5Nd was the best corrosion resistant alloy, which showed the largest mechanical strength after salt spray. The results indicated that type and amount of precipitated phases played an important role in the corrosion properties. This research is expected to provide a guiding insight into developing the Mg‐Y‐Nd alloy.
Corrosion protection of thickness reduced plasma electrolytic layers on AZ31
Authors: Schneider M. , Kremmer K. , Höhn S.
Published: January 2016

In the present study plasma electrolytic oxidation of magnesium in fluoride free alkaline solution were used to form thin oxide layers with high corrosion protection. The relation between potassium hydroxide and sodium silicate was varied in the electrolyte. The plasma electrolytic process was performed as current controlled unipolar pulse technique. The microstructure of the formed layers were investigated by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical behavior was studied by linear sweep voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy. The thickness of the formed oxide layers was in the range of 1–2 µm. The surface morphology strictly depends on the electrolyte composition. Oxide layers formed in an electrolyte with the lowest relation KOH: Na2SO3 show the best performance in view of corrosion protection.
Applicability of the EPR‐test to investigate the sensitization behavior of the heat resistant austenitic stainless steel TP310HCbN after stress relief heat treatment
Authors: Schmigalla S. , Schultze S.
Published: January 2016

The chemical composition of heat resistant austenitic stainless steels, is optimized with regard to reach good mechanical properties and oxidation resistance at higher temperatures. But in some circumstances, before starting up the power plant or during operation these materials can get into contact with corrosive condensates. This can cause material failure due to intergranular corrosion if the concerned components are in a sensitized state. To detect these critical material states the application of the electrochemical potentiodynamic reactivation (EPR)‐test would be useful. Therefore, the present work compares the results of the EPR‐test to the findings obtained from microstructural analyses and intergranular corrosion tests acc. to DIN EN ISO 3651‐2 (Strauss‐test). The following comparison is needed to discuss the applicability of this electrochemical method to ascertain the susceptibility to intergranular corrosion of the heat resistant austenitic stainless steel TP310HCbN after stress relief heat treatment.
Tractable embeddings of Besov spaces into small Lebesgue spaces
Authors: Domínguez Oscar
Published: January 2016

This paper deals with dimension‐controllable (tractable) embeddings of Besov spaces on n‐dimensional torus into small Lebesgue spaces. Our techniques rely on the approximation structure of Besov spaces, extrapolation properties of small Lebesgue spaces and interpolation.
Parkinson's Impulse‐Control Scale for the Severity Rating of Impulse‐Control Behaviors in Parkinson's Disease: A Semistructured Clinical Assessment Tool
Authors: Okai David , Askey‐Jones Sally , Mack Joel , Martin Anne , Chaudhuri Kallol Ray , Samuel Michael , David Anthony S. , Brown Richard G.
Published: January 2016

Background

Impulse‐control behaviors (ICBs) are increasingly recognized in Parkinson's disease (PD) as drug‐related effects of dopaminergic mediation that occur in 15% to 35% of patients with PD. The authors describe the design and evaluation of a new, clinician‐rated severity scale for the assessment of syndromal and subsyndromal forms of impulse‐control disorders (ICDs), simple (punding) and complex (hobbyism) repetitive behaviors, and compulsive overuse of medication (dopamine dysregulation syndrome).

Methods

The Parkinson's Impulse‐Control Scale (PICS), the first PD‐specific, semistructured interview to cover the full range of PD‐related ICBs, is described along with initial evidence on its clinimetric properties including interrater reliability, discriminant validity and sensitivity to change. A convenience sample of PD patients with ICBs and those without were administered a semistructured interview (n = 92).

Results

The scale distinguished between those with and without clinically detected ICBs and between patients with syndromal ICD and subsyndromal ICB (receiver operating characteristic areas under the curve, 92%–95%). Cutoff values were suggested, and substantial agreement was reported on weighted kappa (Κ) values for clinician‐clinician rating of severity (Κ = 0.92). Significant improvements were detected on the scale after a randomized controlled trial of cognitive‐behavioral therapy and medication adjustment (t[22] = 5.47; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The PICS appears to be a reliable measure of the full range of PD ICBs with good levels of interrater reliability. It may provide a useful measure to assess the severity of ICBs and monitor change in clinical and research settings; although, given the specialized centers used for recruitment of this sample, further psychometric evaluation is required.
Radioprotective Agents: Strategies and Translational Advances
Authors: Kamran Mohammad Zahid , Ranjan Atul , Kaur Navrinder , Sur Souvik , Tandon Vibha
Published: January 2016

Radioprotectors are agents required to protect biological system exposed to radiation, either naturally or through radiation leakage, and they protect normal cells from radiation injury in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. It is imperative to study radioprotectors and their mechanism of action comprehensively, looking at their potential therapeutic applications. This review intimately chronicles the rich intellectual, pharmacological story of natural and synthetic radioprotectors. A continuous effort is going on by researchers to develop clinically promising radioprotective agents. In this article, for the first time we have discussed the impact of radioprotectors on different signaling pathways in cells, which will create a basis for scientific community working in this area to develop novel molecules with better therapeutic efficacy. The bright future of exceptionally noncytotoxic derivatives of bisbenzimidazoles is also described as radiomodulators. Amifostine, an effective radioprotectant, has been approved by the FDA for limited clinical use. However, due to its adverse side effects, it is not routinely used clinically. Recently, CBLB502 and several analog of a peptide are under clinical trial and showed high success against radiotherapy in cancer. This article reviews the different types of radioprotective agents with emphasis on the strategies for the development of novel radioprotectors for drug development. In addition, direction for future strategies relevant to the development of radioprotectors is also addressed.
The lower medial thigh perforator (LMTP) flap for lower extremity reconstruction: Preliminary results
Authors: Scaglioni Mario F. , Fakin Richard M. , Giovanoli Pietro , Kuo Yur‐Ren , Kuo Pao‐Jen
Published: January 2016

Background

The lower medial thigh perforator (LMTP) flap is an alternative source for lower extremity reconstruction. In this article, we report the preliminary results of reconstruction of the lower extremity with a series of patients by the lower medial thigh perforator flap.

Patients and methods

From January 2015 until August 2015, we performed six cases of lower extremity reconstruction with the LMTP flap. The defect locations included the distal leg (1 case) and the proximal leg (2 cases), the left foot (2 cases), and the right foot (1 case). The perforators of the flap design were detected at the distal third of the line, which was drawn from the midpoint of inguinal ligament to medial upper border of patella. The dorsalis pedis artery (2 cases), anterior tibia artery (2 cases), posterior tibial artery (2 cases) were dissected as recipient vessels.

Results

The average size of flap was 10.5 × 5 cm (range 10–15 cm and 4–6.5 cm), and the average pedicle length was 7.6 cm (range 5–9.5 cm). 83% of the perforators (5 of 6) were musculocutaneous type, and 17% (1 of 6) were septocutaneous type. The flap survival rate was 100%; the venous congestion was observed in one flap and was successfully salvaged by performing revised venous anastomosis. The donor sites were all closed primarily with minimal morbidity. Follow‐up observations were conducted for 2–6 months, and all patients had good functional recovery with satisfactory cosmetic results.

Conclusion

The lower medial thigh perforator flap has some advantage in lower extremity reconstruction, including adequate length and vessel diameter of pedicle for microvascular anastomosis to the lower extremities recipient vessels. The LMTP flap indicates a low donor‐site morbidity and it could be a safe, reliable, and aesthetically appealing new option for lower extremity reconstruction. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:474–479, 2016.
Accelerated 3D echo‐planar imaging with compressed sensing for time‐resolved hyperpolarized 13C studies
Authors: Geraghty Benjamin J. , Lau Justin Y.C. , Chen Albert P. , Cunningham Charles H.
Published: January 2016

Purpose

To enable large field‐of‐view, time‐resolved volumetric coverage in hyperpolarized 13C metabolic imaging by implementing a novel data acquisition and image reconstruction method based on the compressed sensing framework.

Methods

A spectral‐spatial pulse for single‐resonance excitation followed by a symmetric echo‐planar imaging (EPI) readout was implemented for encoding a 72 × 18 cm2 field of view at 5 × 5 mm2 resolution. Random undersampling was achieved with blipped z‐gradients during the ramp portion of the echo‐planar imaging readout. The sequence and reconstruction were tested with phantom studies and consecutive in vivo hyperpolarized 13C scans in rats. Retrospectively and prospectively undersampled data were compared on the basis of structural similarity in the reconstructed images and the quantification of the lactate‐to‐pyruvate ratio in rat kidneys.

Results

No artifacts or loss of resolution are evident in the compressed sensing reconstructed images acquired with the proposed sequence. Structural similarity analysis indicate that compressed sensing reconstructions can accurately recover spatial features in the metabolic images evaluated.

Conclusion

A novel z‐blip acquisition sequence for compressed sensing accelerated hyperpolarized 13C 3D echo‐planar imaging was developed and demonstrated. The close agreement in lactate‐to‐pyruvate ratios from both retrospectively and prospectively undersampled data from rats shows that metabolic information is preserved with acceleration factors up to 3‐fold with the developed method. Magn Reson Med 77:538–546, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
NGOs’ Resource Capacity Antecedents for Partnerships
Authors: AbouAssi Khaldoun , Makhlouf Nadeen , Whalen Page
Published: January 2016

Nonprofit organizations strive for continuous improvement in their programs’ effectiveness and sustainability, service efficiency, and accountability. Typically, managers face the need to attain these objectives despite limited or declining resources. For that reason, collaboration with other organizations has become an increasingly favored tactical strategy. However, even with the extensive literature on collaboration, there is a lack of empirical testing of elements or characteristics essential to collaboration. Using survey data from environmental organizations, we find that organizations that have sufficient human resource capacity, more technological resources, and employ females at the leadership level would more likely seek collaboration than would other organizations. Organizations that generate higher internal revenues are less likely to seek collaboration.
Magnet® Hospital Recognition Linked to Lower Central Line‐Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates
Authors: Barnes Hilary , Rearden Jessica , McHugh Matthew D.
Published: January 2016

Central‐line‐associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) are among the deadliest heathcare‐associated infections, with an estimated 12–25% mortality rate. In 2014, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) began to penalize hospitals for poor performance with respect to selected hospital‐acquired conditions, including CLABSI. A structural factor associated with high‐quality nursing care and better patient outcomes is The Magnet Recognition Program®. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between Magnet status and hospital CLABSI rates. We used propensity score matching to match Magnet and non‐Magnet hospitals with similar hospital characteristics. In a matched sample of 291 Magnet hospitals and 291 non‐Magnet hospitals, logistic regression models were used to examine whether there was a link between Magnet status and CLABSI rates. Both before and after matching, Magnet hospital status was associated with better (lower than the national average) CLABSI rates (OR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.10, 2.33 after matching). While established programs such as Magnet recognition are consistently correlated with high‐quality nursing work environments and positive patient outcomes, additional research is needed to determine whether Magnet designation produces positive patient outcomes or rewards existing excellence. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microglandular adenosis associated with triple‐negative breast cancer is a neoplastic lesion of triple‐negative phenotype harbouring TP53 somatic mutations
Authors: Guerini‐Rocco Elena , Piscuoglio Salvatore , Ng Charlotte KY , Geyer Felipe C , De Filippo Maria R , Eberle Carey A , Akram Muzaffar , Fusco Nicola , Ichihara Shu , Sakr Rita A , Yatabe Yasushi , Vincent‐Salomon Anne , Rakha Emad A , Ellis Ian O , Wen Y Hannah , Weigelt Britta , Schnitt Stuart J , Reis‐Filho Jorge S
Published: January 2016

Microglandular adenosis (MGA) is a rare proliferative lesion of the breast composed of small glands lacking myoepithelial cells and lined by S100‐positive, oestrogen receptor (ER)‐negative, progesterone receptor (PR)‐negative, and HER2‐negative epithelial cells. There is evidence to suggest that MGA may constitute a non‐obligate precursor of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). We sought to define the genomic landscape of pure MGA and of MGA, atypical MGA (AMGA) and associated TNBCs, and to determine whether synchronous MGA, AMGA, and TNBCs would be clonally related. Two pure MGAs and eight cases of MGA and/or AMGA associated with in situ or invasive TNBC were collected, microdissected, and subjected to massively parallel sequencing targeting all coding regions of 236 genes recurrently mutated in breast cancer or related to DNA repair. Pure MGAs lacked clonal non‐synonymous somatic mutations and displayed limited copy number alterations (CNAs); conversely, all MGAs (n = 7) and AMGAs (n = 3) associated with TNBC harboured at least one somatic non‐synonymous mutation (range 3–14 and 1–10, respectively). In all cases where TNBCs were analyzed, identical TP53 mutations and similar patterns of gene CNAs were found in the MGA and/or AMGA and in the associated TNBC. In the MGA/AMGA associated with TNBC lacking TP53 mutations, somatic mutations affecting PI3K pathway‐related genes (eg PTEN, PIK3CA, and INPP4B) and tyrosine kinase receptor signalling‐related genes (eg ERBB3 and FGFR2) were identified. At diagnosis, MGAs associated with TNBC were found to display subclonal populations, and clonal shifts in the progression from MGA to AMGA and/or to TNBC were observed. Our results demonstrate the heterogeneity of MGAs, and that MGAs associated with TNBC, but not necessarily pure MGAs, are genetically advanced, clonal, and neoplastic lesions harbouring recurrent mutations in TP53 and/or other cancer genes, supporting the notion that a subset of MGAs and AMGAs may constitute non‐obligate precursors of TNBCs. Copyright © 2016 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poly(lactic acid)/poly(3‐hexylthiophene) composite nanofiber fabrication for electronic applications
Authors: Serrano William , Meléndez Anamaris , Ramos Idalia , Pinto Nicholas J
Published: January 2016

Fibers of the biopolymer poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and the p‐type semiconducting polymer poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) were fabricated using the electrospinning technique at low PLA concentration (5 wt%) in CHCl3. The fibers were several millimeters long and had diameters in the range 100 nm–4 µm. Nanofibers containing 63%/37% of PLA/P3HT were electroactive, and therefore were used to construct p–n diodes whose ideality parameter was 2.4 and rectification (on/off) ratio was 400 at ±1 V. These diodes were also able to sense UV radiation and remain operable with an increase in the on/off ratio and a lowering of the turn‐on voltage. By fabricating reusable and low‐cost multifunctional diodes from PLA/P3HT, the applications of PLA as a biocompatible and biodegradable polyester are expanded to include electronic device fabrication with low environmental impact. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Proteomic profiling of dextran sulfate sodium induced acute ulcerative colitis mice serum exosomes and their immunomodulatory impact on macrophages
Authors: Wong Wing‐Yan , Lee Magnolia Muk‐Lan , Chan Brandon Dow , Kam Richard Kin‐Tin , Zhang Ge , Lu Ai‐Ping , Tai William Chi‐Shing
Published: January 2016

Macrophages are essential for the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis, and their activation has been proposed to be critical to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Although there are many recognized mediators of macrophage activation, increasing evidence suggests that macrophages respond to exosome stimulation. Exosomes are 40–150 nm microvesicles released from different cell types and are found in a variety of physiological fluids, including serum. As studies have shown that circulating exosomes participate in intercellular communication and can mediate the immune response, we hypothesized that exosomes may play a role in the pathogenesis of IBD though modulation of macrophage activity. In this study, we used the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced acute colitis mice model to investigate the effect of serum exosomes on macrophages and identify exosome proteins potentially involved in macrophage activation. We treated RAW264.7 macrophages with serum exosomes isolated from dextran sulfate sodium induced mice and found that treatment induced phosphorylation of p38 and ERK and production of tumor necrosis factor α when compared to treatment with exosomes isolated from control mice. Subsequent proteomic analysis identified 56 differentially expressed proteins, a majority of which were acute‐phase proteins and immunoglobulins. Bioinformatics analysis suggested these proteins were mainly involved in the complement and coagulation cascade, which has been implicated in macrophage activation. Our findings provide new insight into the role of circulating serum exosomes in acute colitis and contribute to the understanding of macrophage activation in the pathogenesis of IBD.
Efficacy and long‐term outcomes of palivizumab prophylaxis to prevent respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants with cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland
Authors: Groves H.E. , Jenkins L. , Macfarlane M. , Reid A. , Lynn F. , Shields M.D.
Published: January 2016

Background

RSV causes considerable morbidity and mortality in children. In cystic fibrosis (CF) viral infections are associated with worsening respiratory symptoms and bacterial colonization. Palivizumab is effective in reducing RSV hospitalization in high risk patient groups. Evidence regarding its effectiveness and safety in CF is inconclusive. CF screening in N. Ireland enabled timely palivizumab prophylaxis, becoming routine in 2002.

Objectives

To determine the effect of palivizumab on RSV‐related hospitalization and compare lung function and bacterial colonization at age 6 years for those born pre‐ and post‐introduction of palivizumab prophylaxis.

Methods

A retrospective audit was conducted for all patients diagnosed with CF during the period from 1997 to 2007 inclusive. RSV‐related hospitalization, time to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) 1st isolate, lung function and growth parameters were recorded. Comparisons were made for outcomes pre‐ and post‐introduction of routine palivizumab administration in 2002. A cost evaluation was also performed.

Results

Ninety‐two children were included; 47 pre‐ and 45 post‐palivizumab introduction. The overall RSV‐positive hospitalization rate was 13%. The relative risk of RSV infection in palivizumab non‐recipients versus recipients was 4.78 (95%CI: 1.1–20.7), P = 0.027. Notably, PA 1st isolate was significantly earlier in the palivizumab recipient cohort versus non‐recipient cohort (median 57 vs. 96 months, P < 0.025) with a relative risk of 2.5. Chronic PA infection at 6 years remained low in both groups, with similar lung function and growth parameters. Total costs were calculated at £96,127 ($151,880) for the non‐recipient cohort versus £137,954 ($217,967) for the recipient cohort.

Conclusion

Palivizumab was effective in reducing RSV‐related hospitalization infection in CF patients. Surprisingly, we found a significantly earlier time to 1st isolate of PA in palivizumab recipients which we could not explain by altered or improved diagnostic tests. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:379–385. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.