bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trajectory Planning of 7-DOF Space Manipulator for Minimizing Base Disturbance
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Wang Lan , Zhou Dongsheng
Published: March 2016

In the free-floating mode, there is intense dynamic coupling existing between the space manipulator and the base, and the base attitude may change while performing a motion with its manipulator. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the interference that resulted from the manipulator movement. For planning trajectories of the space manipulator with 7 degrees of freedom (7-DOF), simulated annealing particle swarm optimization (SAPSO) algorithm is presented in the paper. Firstly, kinematics equations are setup. Secondly, the joint functions are parameterized by sinusoidal functions, and the objective function is defined according to the motion constraints of manipulator and accuracy requirements of the base attitude. Finally, SAPSO algorithm is used to search the optimal trajectory. The simulation results verify the proposed method.
Adaptive Trajectory Tracking Control using Reinforcement Learning for Quadrotor
Authors: Lou Wenjie , Guo Xiao
Published: March 2016

Inaccurate system parameters and unpredicted external disturbances affect the performance of non-linear controllers. In this paper, a new adaptive control algorithm under the reinforcement framework is proposed to stabilize a quadrotor helicopter. Based on a command-filtered non-linear control algorithm, adaptive elements are added and learned by policy-search methods. To predict the inaccurate system parameters, a new kernel-based regression learning method is provided. In addition, Policy learning by Weighting Exploration with the Returns (PoWER) and Return Weighted Regression (RWR) are utilized to learn the appropriate parameters for adaptive elements in order to cancel the effect of external disturbance. Furthermore, numerical simulations under several conditions are performed, and the ability of adaptive trajectory-tracking control with reinforcement learning are demonstrated.
Augmentation of Enhanced HDR Utilizing Encoder to Estimate Yaw-Angle of Cleaning Robots
Authors: Cho Yoon Hee , Lee Sang Cheol , Hong Sung Kyung
Published: March 2016

This paper proposes an improved algorithm for augmenting the enhanced HDR by utilizing encoder readings to achieve further minimized drift on the yaw-angle estimation of cleaning robots. The primary idea of the proposed approach consists of two phases: 1) classifying the manoeuvre (stop, straight and curving) being carried out using logic as a function of encoder readings; 2) controlling the Attenuator gain, resetting the Binary I-controller and switching Integrator in the enhanced HDR structure, taking into account the identified manoeuvring conditions. The proposed algorithm is applied to a cleaning robot and the experimental data demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.
Epidemiologia de lesões musculoesqueléticas em praticantes amadores de futebol
Authors: Gonçalves Marcus Victor Prudencio , Onaka Giuliano Moreto , Graças Dayana Das , Carregaro Rodrigo Luiz , Martinez Paula Felippe , Oliveira-Junior Silvio Assis
Published: March 2016

Este estudo teve por objetivo analisar a epidemiologia de lesões musculoesqueléticas (LME) no futebol, relacionando-as com frequência de prática e nível de atividade física. A casuística integrou 126 participantes homens, praticantes regulares de futebol amador em diferentes centros poliesportivos de Campo Grande/MS. Os participantes foram distribuídos em quatro grupos, de acordo com a frequência semanal de prática de futebol: G1, um dia, G2, dois dias, G3, três dias, e G4, quatro ou mais dias de atividade, com duração de 10 a 60 minutos. Para a tomada de informações sobre o nível de atividade física e LME, foram utilizados, respectivamente, o questionário internacional de atividade física (IPAQ) e um inquérito de morbidade referida. Não se constatou uma associação entre prática de futebol e nível de atividade física; o G4 mostrou maiores valores de gasto metabólico. Foram registrados 96 LME, envolvendo 87 participantes (69%), totalizando 1,52 LME/ praticante. Constatou-se um predomínio de lesões musculares (36%) e articulares (34%) em membros inferiores. O trauma constituiu o principal mecanismo de lesão (28%), destacando-se como a maior causa no G3. Foi possível constatar que a frequência de prática de futebol não se associa diretamente com a ocorrência de LME entre jogadores amadores de futebol.
Eosinophilic lung disease: A review
Authors: Dudgeon Kate
Published: March 2016

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De l’intégration sociale à l’éclatement du social : l’émergence, l’apogée et le départ à la retraite du contrôle social
Authors: Castel Robert
Published: March 2016

Partant de l’idée selon laquelle l’éclatement ne prend son sens qu’au regard d’une unité antérieure, l’auteur pense que celle-ci est à rechercher dans la problématique du contrôle social. C’est donc à une étude généalogique de cette analyse unificatrice de l’appréhension du social qu’il nous invite, à l’aide d’un travail qui envisage, de manière plus complexe qu’il n’est coutume de le faire, l’émergence et le déclin de ce type particulier de montage mi-théorique mi-politique qu’a été le contrôle social. L’argument central de l’article est que l’actuel discrédit de la notion n’est pas à interpréter seulement à partir de l’affaissement d’une idéologie politique contestataire, mais d’abord comme symptôme d’une crise plus générale qui touche aujourd’hui tous les secteurs où l’État intervient sur la société, à partir de la mise en cause de la problématique de l’intégration qui a fondé notre conception du social.
Sur les traces du principe de proportionnalité : une esquisse généalogique
Authors: Guilmain Antoine
Published: March 2016

La proportionnalité a le « vent en poupe »… que voilà un bel euphémisme! Depuis son
introduction dans le Code de procédure civile, le principe de proportionnalité a
envahi le droit et les esprits avec une aisance déroutante (art 4.2 Cpc). Cette situation
devrait encore s’accentuer avec l’adoption du nouveau Code de procédure civile, qui
fait de la proportionnalité une véritable « philosophie ». Seulement, ne dit-on pas que
derrière toute réussite se cache un chemin? Ceci se vérifie merveilleusement pour la
proportionnalité. Du Code d’ Hammourabi au droit administratif prussien, en passant par les
Anciens et le Siècle des Lumières, la proportionnalité imprègne le droit depuis la nuit des
temps — quoique sous des appellations variées et voilées. Le présent article vise donc à
proposer une histoire de la proportionnalité dans un contexte juridique. L’objectif est
ambitieux, à la limite du périlleux. Aussi, la flèche du temps sera scindée en trois époques
successives. Premièrement, la phase prémoderne marque les balbutiements de la
proportionnalité tant sur le plan philosophique que normatif. Deuxièmement, la phase moderne
révèle une différence de réception de la proportionnalité entre le droit public et le droit
privé. Troisièmement, la phase post-moderne se caractérise par une propagation exponentielle
de la proportionnalité au sein de l’ensemble des branches du droit et des ordres juridiques.
Au bout du compte, ce travail se veut démontrer que la proportionnalité est certes un
domaine de recherche éclaté, mais dont les fragments ont beaucoup en commun.
Uveitis: Classification, Etiologies and Clinical Signs
Authors: Kelkar Aditya Shreekant , Arora Ekta Rakesh , Sowkath B. , Biswas Jyotirmay
Published: March 2016

Uveitis is one of the vision threatening eye diseases. There are several conditions that can mimic uveitis. An approach to uveitis should include uveitis oriented history, ophthalmic examination, systemic evaluation, ancillary tests and laboratory investigations. Various signs and symptoms can occur in different types of uveitis. There is a new grading system of anterior chamber inflammation and vitreous inflammation by SUN working group. There is also an anatomic and an etiological classification of uveitis. New classification systems have been proposed recently for intraocular tuberculosis, ocular sarcoidosis, Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease, Behcet's disease and acute retinal necrosis. This review article will update the clinical approach and various classification systems in uveitis.
HF wave propagation and induced ionospheric turbulence in the magnetic equatorial region
Authors: Eliasson B. , Papadopoulos K.
Published: March 2016

The propagation and excitation of artificial ionospheric turbulence in the magnetic equatorial region by high‐frequency electromagnetic (EM) waves injected into the overhead ionospheric layer is examined. EM waves with ordinary (O) mode polarization reach the critical layer only if their incidence angle is within the Spitze cone. Near the critical layer the wave electric field is linearly polarized and directed parallel to the magnetic field lines. For large enough amplitudes, the O mode becomes unstable to the four‐wave oscillating two‐stream instability and the three‐wave parametric decay instability driving large‐amplitude Langmuir and ion acoustic waves. The interaction between the induced Langmuir turbulence and electrons located within the 50–100 km wide transmitter heating cone at an altitude of 230 km can potentially accelerate the electrons along the magnetic field to several tens to a few hundreds of eV, far beyond the thresholds for optical emissions and ionization of the neutral gas. It could furthermore result in generation of shear Alfvén waves such as those recently observed in laboratory experiments at the University of California, Los Angeles Large Plasma Device.
Relationship between observed upper mantle structures and recent tectonic activity across the Southeastern United States
Authors: Biryol C. Berk , Wagner Lara S. , Fischer Karen M. , Hawman Robert B.
Published: March 2016

The lithospheric structure of the Southeastern United States is a product of earlier episodes of continental collision and breakup. The region is located in the interior of the North American Plate, away from active plate margins. However, there is ongoing tectonism in the region with multiple zones of seismicity, uplifting arches, and Cenozoic intraplate volcanism. The mechanisms controlling this activity and the state of stress remain enigmatic. Two important factors are plate strength and preexisting, inherited structures. Here we present new tomographic images of the upper mantle beneath the Southeastern United States, revealing large‐scale structural variations in the upper mantle. Examples include the relatively thick lithospheric mantle of stable North America that abruptly thins beneath the Paleozoic Appalachian orogeny, and the slow upper mantle of the Proterozoic Reelfoot rift. Our results also indicate fast seismic velocity patterns that can be interpreted as ongoing lithospheric foundering. This provides a viable explanation for seismicity, uplifting, and young intraplate volcanism. We postulate that not only tectonic inheritance but also continuing lithospheric foundering may control the ongoing activity of the region long after it became a passive margin. Based on distinct variations in the geometry and thickness of the lithospheric mantle and foundered lithosphere, we propose that piecemeal delamination has occurred beneath the region throughout the Cenozoic, removing a significant amount of reworked/deformed mantle lithosphere. Ongoing lithospheric foundering beneath the eastern margin of stable North America explains significant variations in thickness of lithospheric mantle across the former Grenville deformation front.
The 2015 Gorkha earthquake: A large event illuminating the Main Himalayan Thrust fault
Authors: Duputel Zacharie , Vergne Jérôme , Rivera Luis , Wittlinger Gérard , Farra Véronique , Hetényi György
Published: March 2016

The 2015 Gorkha earthquake sequence provides an outstanding opportunity to better characterize the geometry of the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT). To overcome limitations due to unaccounted lateral heterogeneities, we perform Centroid Moment Tensor inversions in a 3‐D Earth model for the main shock and largest aftershocks. In parallel, we recompute S‐to‐P and P‐to‐S receiver functions from the Hi‐CLIMB data set. Inverted centroid locations fall within a low‐velocity zone at 10–15 km depth and corresponding to the subhorizontal portion of the MHT that ruptured during the Gorkha earthquake. North of the main shock hypocenter, receiver functions indicate a north dipping feature that likely corresponds to the midcrustal ramp connecting the flat portion to the deep part of the MHT. Our analysis of the main shock indicates that long‐period energy emanated updip of high‐frequency radiation sources previously inferred. This frequency‐dependent rupture process might be explained by different factors such as fault geometry and the presence of fluids.
Insights into Ionic Transport and Structural Changes in Magnetite during Multiple‐Electron Transfer Reactions
Authors: Zhang Wei , Bock David C. , Pelliccione Christopher J. , Li Yan , Wu Lijun , Zhu Yimei , Marschilok Amy. C. , Takeuchi Esther S. , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Wang Feng
Published: March 2016

Metal oxides, such as Fe3O4, hold promise for future battery applications due to their abundance, low cost, and opportunity for high lithium storage capacity. In order to better understand the mechanisms of multiple‐electron transfer reactions leading to high capacity in Fe3O4, a comprehensive investigation on local ionic transport and ordering is made by probing site occupancies of anions (O2−) and cations (Li+, Fe3+/Fe2+) using multiple synchrotron X‐ray and electron‐beam techniques, in combination with ab‐initio calculations. Results from this study provide the first experimental evidence that the cubic‐close‐packed (ccp) O‐anion array in Fe3O4 is sustained throughout the lithiation and delithiation processes, thereby enabling multiple lithium intercalation and conversion reactions. Cation displacement/reordering occurs within the ccp O‐anion framework, which leads to a series of phase transformations, starting from the inverse spinel phase and turning into intermediate rock‐salt‐like phases (LixFe3O4; 0 < x < 2), then into a cation‐segregated phase (Li2O⋅FeO), and finally converting into metallic Fe and Li2O. Subsequent delithiation and lithiation processes involve interconversion between metallic Fe and FeO‐like phases. These results may offer new insights into the structure‐determined ionic transport and electrochemical reactions in metal oxides, and those of other compounds sharing a ccp anion framework, reminiscent of magnetite.
Explaining the variable penetrance of CNVs: Parental intelligence modulates expression of intellectual impairment caused by the 22q11.2 deletion
Authors: Klaassen Petra , Duijff Sasja , Swanenburg de Veye Henriëtte , Beemer Frits , Sinnema Gerben , Breetvelt Elemi , Schappin Renske , Vorstman Jacob
Published: March 2016

The role of rare genetic variants, in particular copy number variants (CNVs), in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders is becoming increasingly clear. While the list of these disorder‐related CNVs continues to lengthen, it has also become clear that in nearly all genetic variants the proportion of carriers who express the associated phenotype is far from 100%. To understand this variable penetrance of CNVs it is important to realize that even the largest CNVs represent only a tiny fraction of the entire genome. Therefore, part of the mechanism underlying the variable penetrance of CNVs is likely the modulatory impact of the rest of the genome. In the present study we used the 22q11DS as a model to examine whether the observed penetrance of intellectual impairment—one of the main phenotypes associated with 22q11DS—is modulated by the intellectual level of their parents, for which we used the parents' highest level of education as a proxy. Our results, based on data observed in 171 children with 22q11DS in the age range of 5–15 years, showed a significant association between estimated parental cognitive level and intelligence in offspring (full scale, verbal and performance IQ), with the largest effect size for verbal IQ. These results suggest that possible mechanisms involved in the variable penetrance observed in CNVs include the impact of genetic background and/or environmental influences. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Patent Arbitration: Why It Still Makes Good Sense
Authors: Michaelson Peter L.
Published: March 2016

“Reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated.”
Asymmetric Synthesis of Axinellamines A and B
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang , Wang Xiao , Ma Yuyong , Chen Chuo
Published: March 2016

Axinellamines A and B are broad‐spectrum antibacterial pyrrole–imidazole alkaloids that have a complex polycyclic skeleton. A new asymmetric synthesis of these marine sponge metabolites is described herein, featuring an oxidative rearrangement and an anchimeric chlorination reaction.
Molekulares Calciumhydrid: Dicalciumtrihydrid‐Kation, stabilisiert durch einen neutralen makrocyclischen NNNN‐Liganden
Authors: Leich Valeri , Spaniol Thomas P. , Maron Laurent , Okuda Jun
Published: March 2016

Die Hydrierung von Bis(triphenylsilyl)calcium mit dem neutralen makrocyclischen Aminliganden 1,4,7,10‐Tetramethyl‐1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecan (Me4TACD) vom NNNN‐Typ, [Ca(Me4TACD)(SiPh3)2] (2), führte zu dem kationischen zweikernigen Calciumhydrid [Ca2H3(Me4TACD)2](SiPh3) (3), das über NMR‐Spektroskopie, Einkristallstrukturanalyse und Dichtefunktionalrechnungen charakterisiert wurde. 3 reagierte mit Deuterium zu dem Deuterid [D3]‐3.
Polymorphism of Amyloid Fibrils In Vivo
Authors: Annamalai Karthikeyan , Gührs Karl‐Heinz , Koehler Rolf , Schmidt Matthias , Michel Henri , Loos Cornelia , Gaffney Patricia M. , Sigurdson Christina J. , Hegenbart Ute , Schönland Stefan , Fändrich Marcus
Published: March 2016

Polymorphism is a wide‐spread feature of amyloid‐like fibrils formed in vitro, but it has so far remained unclear whether the fibrils formed within a patient are also affected by this phenomenon. In this study we show that the amyloid fibrils within a diseased individual can vary considerably in their three‐dimensional architecture. We demonstrate this heterogeneity with amyloid fibrils deposited within different organs, formed from sequentially non‐homologous polypeptide chains and affecting human or animals. Irrespective of amyloid type or source, we found in vivo fibrils to be polymorphic. These data imply that the chemical principles of fibril assembly that lead to such polymorphism are fundamentally conserved in vivo and in vitro.
One‐Pot Trimetallic Relay Catalysis: A Unified Approach for the Synthesis of β‐Carbolines and Other [c]‐Fused Pyridines
Authors: Dhiman Seema , Mishra Uttam K. , Ramasastry S. S. V.
Published: March 2016

A divergent strategy is presented for the synthesis of 1,3‐di‐ and 1,3,4‐trisubstituted β‐carbolines through an unprecedented one‐pot triple‐orthogonal‐metal relay catalysis, and 1,3‐disubstituted 4‐hydroxy‐β‐carbolines through a one‐pot bimetallic relay catalysis from readily accessible 3‐(2‐aminophenyl)‐5‐hexenyn‐3‐ols. These strategies were elaborated to enable the synthesis of benzofuro[2,3‐c]pyridines, benzothieno[2,3‐c]pyridines, and isoquinolines, which otherwise require multistep synthesis.
Glucose‐sensitive and blood‐compatible nanogels for insulin controlled release
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyan , Lin Anhua , Yuan Xinxin , Li Hui , Ma Dong , Xue Wei
Published: March 2016

For insulin delivery, many reported glucose‐sensitive materials are designed to response to the glucose in the blood. However, few particular studies on their blood compatibility have been reported. In this article, for controlled insulin release in diabetes therapy, a glucose‐sensitive nanogel was prepared through thermally initiated precipitation polymerization using the aminophenylboronic acid‐containing monomer to copolymerize with methacrylic acid. The obtained nanogels showed the uniform and spheroidal morphology as observed by SEM, and their sizes in aqueous solution are dependent on the concentration of glucose. Through in vitro and in vivo insulin release tests, it was found that nanogels showed the glucose‐dependent insulin release and prolonged effect of lowing blood glucose level. The blood compatibility of nanogels has also been explored through various assays including the hemolysis, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time as well as the thromboelastography. All results indicated that the obtained glucose‐sensitive nanogels showed good blood safety. Moreover, their low cytotoxicity suggested a potential application in diabetes therapy. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43504.
Dual‐color reporter switching system to discern dimer formations of G‐protein‐coupled receptors using Cre/loxP site‐specific recombination in yeast
Authors: Nakamura Yasuyuki , Hashimoto Takamichi , Ishii Jun , Kondo Akihiko
Published: March 2016

G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) are physiologically important membrane proteins that represent major molecular targets in pharmaceutical and medicinal fields. Many GPCRs have been shown to form not only homodimers, but also heterodimers that can confer large functional and physiological diversity and are therefore expected to offer new opportunities for the discovery of new drugs. Yeast is a useful host organism that can be used to investigate the interactions between eukaryotic protein pairs, as demonstrated by the yeast two‐hybrid (Y2H) system. Previously, we established reporter gene assay systems to screen for GPCR dimer pairs based on the split‐ubiquitin membrane Y2H (mY2H) system. However, conventional systems only induce reporter gene expressions from the OFF to ON states. In this study, we therefore designed a reporter switching system that can switch the expressions between two reporter genes (one from ON to OFF and the other from OFF to ON) in response to the Y2H readout. To invoke reporter switching, we took advantage of Cre/loxP site‐specific recombination. Through optimization of Cre‐mediated reporter gene recombination using the split‐ubiquitin mY2H system, we built a dual‐color reporter switching system to discern the formations of GPCR dimers. This system enabled monitoring of the formations of homodimers and heterodimers of human serotonin 1A receptor or β2‐adrenergic receptor as well as homodimers of the yeast endogenous pheromone receptor (Ste2p) in yeast cells. Our reporter switching system may be a useful tool for identifying potential molecular targets among GPCR dimers, and is also applicable to other reporter gene assay systems. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2016;113: 2178–2190. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tumour-infiltrating CD8 to FOXP3 lymphocyte ratio in predicting treatment responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy of aggressive breast cancer
Authors: Asano Y , Kashiwagi S , Goto W , Kurata K , Noda S , Takashima T , Onoda N , Tanaka S , Ohsawa M , Hirakawa K
Published: March 2016

Background

Tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) can be used to monitor the immune response, and are important in predicting treatment responses and outcomes for various types of cancer. Recently, specific TIL subsets have been reported to be clinically useful in predicting treatment responses. The CD8+/FOXP3+ TIL ratio (CFR) may be a more sensitive indicator for monitoring immune function. This study investigated the clinical significance and value of CFR as a biomarker to predict treatment responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Methods

Patients with resectable early-stage breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy at Osaka City University Hospital, Japan, between 2007 and 2013 were included. Oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) 2, Ki-67, CD8 and FOXP3 status were assessed by immunohistochemistry, and correlated with pathological complete response (pCR).

Results

A total of 177 patients were included, of whom 90 had a high CFR and 87 a low CFR. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) was more common in the high-CFR group than in the low-CFR group (46 versus 23 per cent; P = 0·002), as was HER2-enriched breast cancer (HER2BC) (27 versus 14 per cent; P = 0·033). Among these patients, the pCR rate was significantly higher in the high-CFR group than in the low-CFR group (TNBC: P = 0·022; HER2BC: P < 0·001). In multivariable analysis high-CFR status was an independent predictor of a favourable prognosis: hazard ratio 0·24 (95 per cent c.i. 0·05 to 0·72; P = 0·015) for TNBC and 0·10 (0·10 to 0·90; P = 0·041) for HER2BC.

Conclusion

The CFR may be a useful biomarker to predict treatment response to neoadjuvant therapy in aggressive breast cancer subtypes, such as TNBC and HER2BC.
Cyclic Zinc(II) Bisporphyrin‐Based Molecular Switches: Supramolecular Control of Complexation‐Mediated Conformational Switching and Photoinduced Electron Transfer
Authors: Mondal Pritam , Rath Sankar Prasad
Published: March 2016

A cyclic zinc(II) bisporphyrin with flexible linker was employed as a dynamic molecular switch under the regulation of π‐acceptors (tetracyanoquinodimethane, trinitrofluorenone, 9‐dicyanomethylenefluorene) and bidentate N‐donor ligands (1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane, pyrazine, 4,4′‐bipyridine). The cyclic bisporphyrin host can efficiently encapsulate the π‐acceptor guests through the strong π–π interaction, which can be replaced again by using a bidentate N‐donor ligand, which coordinates strongly with the metal centers. The open conformation of the bisporphyrin can be efficiently recovered by removing the bidentate ligands using Cu+ ion. During the process, two porphyrin rings also reversibly change their relative orientation between perpendicular and parallel. The behavior of the cyclic bisporphyrin was followed by using UV/Vis, 1H NMR, fluorescence, and electrochemical analyses along with X‐ray structure determination of the complexes. Moreover, control of photoinduced electron transfer (PET “ON‐OFF”) is also achieved by the use of guest exchange. Association constants for the host–guest binding were very high, which further explains the robust nature of such assemblies in solution. The experimental evidence is supported by DFT calculations. Such controllable dynamic features can constitute a new step towards "smart" adaptive molecular devices and the emergence of such systems is of significant interest in supramolecular chemistry.
Plasmon‐Induced Broadband Light‐Harvesting for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells Using a Mixture of Gold Nanocrystals
Authors: Zhang Ye , Sun Zhe , Cheng Si , Yan Feng
Published: March 2016

The efficiency of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is generally limited by the mismatch between the absorption spectrum of the photosensitizer and the solar irradiation spectrum. This work describes the use of a mixture that containing proper proportions of SiO2 coated Au nanospheres (AuNSs@SiO2) and Au nanorods (AuNRs@SiO2) (the mixture was denoted as AuNCs@SiO2) to enhance the sunlight utility in DSSCs. The incorporation of AuNCs@SiO2 into the TiO2 photoanode induced broadband light‐harvesting at both low‐ and long‐ wavelengths and thus enhanced the photocurrent compared to that of plasmonic solar cells based on either AuNSs@SiO2 or AuNRs@SiO2. Upon the doping of AuNCs@SiO2, the overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) increased from 7.39 to 9.12 % for DSSCs based on organic liquid electrolytes.
Small cell mesothelioma: A rare entity and diagnostic pitfall mimicking small cell lung carcinoma on fine‐needle aspiration
Authors: Zhang Yanhong , Afify Alaa , Gandour‐Edwards Regina F. , Bishop John W. , Huang Eric C.
Published: March 2016

Small cell mesothelioma (SCM) is an extremely rare variant of epithelioid mesothelioma that can be mistaken for other forms of small round blue cell tumors, particularly small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Here, we describe a fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) from a pleural lesion in a 75‐year‐old man with a history of known asbestos exposure. The FNA revealed cohesive clusters of uniform small round blue cells with high nuclear‐to‐cytoplasmic ratio, finely powdery chromatin, small inconspicuous nucleoli, and scant amount of cytoplasm. Mitoses were infrequent and nuclear molding was absent. Immunochemical profile supported a mesothelial origin, which was later confirmed by pleurectomy with a diagnosis of SCM. This report demonstrates the difficulties in cytologic evaluation of lung FNAs in differentiating SCM from SCLC or other small round blue cell tumors. As therapy differs for SCM, early recognition of the cytologic features is essential in making the correct diagnosis needed for appropriate clinical management. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:526–529. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
GAP Peptide Synthesis through the Design of a GAP Protecting Group: An Fmoc/tBu Synthesis of Thymopentin Free from Polymers, Chromatography and Recrystallization
Authors: Seifert Cole W. , Paniagua Armando , White Gabrielle A. , Cai Lucy , Li Guigen
Published: March 2016

A novel method for Fmoc/tBu solution‐phase peptide synthesis and the development of a new benzyl‐type group‐assisted purification (GAP) protecting group is reported. This GAP protecting group is utilized in place of a polymer support, facilitating C→N Fmoc peptide synthesis without chromatography or recrystallization. The GAP group can be added and removed in high yield, and was used to synthesize over 1 gram of the immunostimulant, thymopentin, in high overall yield (83 %) and purity (99 %).
How to Homologate Your Sugar: Synthetic Approaches to Septanosyl Containing Carbohydrates
Authors: Vannam Raghu , Peczuh Mark W.
Published: March 2016

Seven‐membered ring “septanose” sugars have been used as surrogates of pyranoses in biochemical investigations. Septanoses are homologs of pyranoses in the same way that beta amino acids are for alpha amino acids or hexose nucleosides for deoxyribose nucleosides. Methods for their synthesis have undergone significant development recently, following two complementary strategies. In one, glycals are cyclopropanated which are later opened in addition reactions with nucleophiles. The other follows traditional glycosylation strategies where electrophilic donors are prepared and reacted with nucleophiles. Unsaturated seven membered ring oxepines play a key role in both of the approaches, which are highlighted.
Experimental pain induces attentional bias that is modified by enhanced motivation: An eye tracking study
Authors: Sun Z.‐K. , Wang J.‐Y. , Luo F.
Published: March 2016

Background

In this study, the effects of prior pain experience and motivation on attentional bias towards pain‐related information were investigated within two visual‐probe tasks via eye movement behaviours. It is hypothesized that pain experience would induce stronger attentional bias and such bias could be suppressed by the motivation to avoid impeding pain.

Methods

All participants took part in visual‐probe tasks with pictures and words as stimuli that are typically used in studies of attentional bias. They were allocated to three groups: no‐pain (NP) group, performing tasks without experiencing pain; pain‐experience (PE) group, performing the same tasks following painful stimuli; and pain‐experience‐with‐motivation (PEM) group, undergoing the same procedure as PE group with additional instructions about avoiding impeding pain. Eye movements were recorded during the tasks.

Results

The eye movement data showed that: (1) participants in the PE group exhibited stronger attention bias towards painful pictures than those in the NP group; (2) the attentional bias towards painful pictures was significantly reduced in the PEM group as compared to the PE group. By contrast, the verbal task failed to find these effects using sensory pain words as stimuli.

Conclusion

This study was the first that revealed the impact of acute experimental pain on attentional bias towards pain‐related information in healthy individuals through eye tracking. It may provide a possible solution to reduce hypervigilance towards pain‐related information by altering the motivational relevance.

What does this study add?

(1) This study revealed the impact of experimental pain on attentional bias in healthy individuals; (2) This study may provide a possible approach of altering motivational relevance to control the pain‐induced attentional bias towards pain‐related information.
Voltammetry on a Nanometer‐sized Electrode in Solution Containing Very Dilute Electroactive Species
Authors: Sun Peng , Kitt Jordan , Tran Nina , Dang Jennytruc , Saavedra Daniel P. , Hong Jungik , Wampler Rachel , Anz Samir
Published: March 2016

A nanometer‐sized Pt electrode is becoming a routine tool in nano‐electrochemistry research, but, the dissolution of Pt in aqueous solution is quite common and the rate of the dissolution of Pt is related to the current density on the electrode. Measurement on a nanometer‐sized Pt electrode in solution containing very dilute electroactive species can effectively decrease the current on the electrode and thus decrease the extent of the dissolution of Pt electrode. So far, a commercial potentiostat which has a peak‐peak noise of less than 10 fA is not common. In this paper, a homemade potentiostat, which has a peak‐peak noise of less than 5 fA, has been made. By using the instrument, voltammograms with a limiting current of less than 20 fA can be obtained on a nanometer‐sized electrode in solution containing micro molar ferrocenemethanol. Our results show that the standard rate constant of the oxidation of ferrocenemethanol measured in micro molar ferrocenemethanol solution is a little greater than that measured in mili molar ferrocenemethanol solution, which indicates that kinetic parameter may be affected by the amount of electroactive molecules being measured.
A Review of the Restrictive Flow Infusion Devices Available for Parenteral Drug Therapy
Authors: Capes David F , Ferrari Rodolfo L
Published: March 2016

Restrictive flow devices use a restriction to control the outflow of pressurised fluid. The two most common types of restrictive flow device available are elastomer and spring powered. The former includes the Homepump, lnfusor and Intermate and they consist of a highly elastic, pressure‐distendable bladder that functions as a reservoir and pressurises the drug solution within. A spring is used in the Springfusor to apply force to the piston of a syringe, and in the Paragon and SideKick to pressurise an infusion bag. These devices offer a portable, self‐powered, cost‐effective alternative to electronic pumps for many applications. The major limitations are their dose inflexibility and accuracy. Users should be aware of the operating conditions that affect flow rate, and since flow rate is described by Poiseuille's law, these include temperature, drug concentration, hydrostatic pressure and the addition of narrow lumen catheters.

Aust J Hosp Pharm 1997; 27: 115–24.
Whatever You Do, Don't Mention the ‘Q’ Word — Perspective on Quality in Pharmacy and Health Care
Authors: Linsley Ross F
Published: March 2016

This is the report of a study tour conducted in 1994 of sites of excellence with quality in health care in the USA. Quality is simply defined as providing what we do best, in an efficient and effective manner that exceeds our customers' needs. It is based on alignment of services with co‐providers, and measurement to ensure goals are achieved. Lessons learned from the USA touch on tailoring the quality program to suit the individual organisation, the need for consistency and commitment from the CEO down, ensuring people are involved in the translation of principles to practice and the importance of measurement in the process. Two sites visited have extended the importance of measures to a level where all management is based on key process and outcome indicators. Change management is discussed and various inhibitors to change are listed. Major challenges and opportunities are discussed in the context of the Australian healthcare environment. From experience in the healthcare industry and local experience, major opportunities exist in standards of practice, protocols for clinical practice, performance indicators, collaboration, and research.

Aust J Hosp Pharm 1997; 27: 244–7.
Optimisation of Drug Delivery 2. Principles of Drug Delivery and Limitations of Conventional Non‐Oral Dosage Forms
Authors: Benson Heather AE , Prankerd Richard J
Published: March 2016

The first article in this series outlined some common problems in the use of oral dosage forms and indicated some approaches to the solution of these problems. The present review addresses similar problems with traditional non‐oral dosage forms. These routes of administration are generally used when a deficiency of the oral route prevents achievement of the desired drug effect when given by this route. Examples are when a very rapid response is required (e.g. induction of general anaesthesia, treatment of status epilepticus), local rather than systemic effect, or when vomiting prevents adequate oral absorption.
The Evolving Area of Emergency Medicine Pharmacy
Authors: Welch Susan A
Published: March 2016

Clinical pharmacy in the area of emergency medicine is at an early stage of development in Australia. The role of a clinical pharmacist working in this field at St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney is described. Possible areas of involvement and examples of activities and interventions are outlined.
Support Staff in Hospital Pharmacy Practice ‐ a Decade of Change
Authors: Benzie Jennifer L , Swan Graham T , Donnelly Richard J
Published: March 2016

Aim: To obtain an overview of the deployment and training of support staff and to compare the results with a similar survey conducted in 1986.

Method: Questionnaires were sent to Australian hospitals with a nominal bed capacity of 180 or more. Information sought in the questionnaire included staffing numbers, details of duties undertaken by support staff, and qualifications and training of support staff.

Results: The response rate of 89.3% was almost the same as the first survey. In hospitals of 200 beds or more the ratio of support staff to pharmacists has increased in three States, remained static in one and has decreased in the remainder. On a national basis the ratio has increased marginally from 0.50 to 0.53. Overall the ratio of bed numbers to support staff has decreased. The most significant decreases occurred in NSW and Qld where there have been percentage changes greater than 50% compared to the first survey. With respect to training methods for support staff, most pharmacy directors favoured a combination of a formal academic qualification and an internal (structured) training program.

Thirty‐four per cent of support staff held an appropriate qualification or were studying towards one. This compared very favourably with the previous survey of 11%.

An analysis of the duties performed by support staff was also undertaken. Nationally, the percentage of hospitals employing support staff to carry out the various tasks has increased in each category analysed and there are some duties, such as cytotoxic reconstitution, now being performed, which were not included in the original survey.

Conclusion: Compared to the original survey, pharmacy support staff have increased in numbers nationally and the range and extent of duties undertaken has expanded. Whilst the results are very encouraging, the pharmacy profession must continue to recognise and encourage support staff, in particular in the area of training programs.
Hospital Therapeutic Drug Monitoring with Community Liaison: A Pharmacokinetic Study in the Real World
Authors: Tett Susan , Ezzy Josie
Published: March 2016

Aim: This study was designed to determine whether digoxin patients who have a full pharmacokinetic consultation in hospital and have the results sent to their community carers (the intervention group), have better outcomes three months after discharge than those who receive no such consultation (the control group).

Method: All inpatients who had digoxin concentrations requested over a three‐month period were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 124) or the control (n = 113) group. Informed consent was obtained from 59 subjects in the intervention group and 49 in the control group. Three months after enrolment, follow‐up information was obtained from the patient and/or their general practitioner for 35 and 30 patients, respectively. There were many reasons for assigned patients not consenting or completing the study, the most common being death and discontinuation of digoxin.

Results: The average hospital stay of those in the intervention group was slightly less than those in the control group (13 vs 17 days, p = 0.09). There were no significant differences in the number of rehospitalisations, visits to the doctor or number of digoxin concentrations measured within three months of study entry between the intervention or control groups. However, proportionately more digoxin concentrations were outside the optimal range in the control group. Adverse effects and indications of inefficacy of digoxin were similar in the intervention and control groups three months after study entry (p = 0.19, p = 0.30, respectively).

Conclusions: From this study, it was not possible to determine whether full pharmacokinetic consultations for digoxin, with dissemination of information to community carers, improved long‐term outcomes for the patients. However, useful information and ideas for future studies into the value of therapeutic drug monitoring in a community setting were obtained.
Pharmacy Training in the Solomon Islands ‐ a Personal Account
Authors: Sanburg Amanda LC
Published: March 2016

Have you ever considered working in a developing country? Do you want to experience the diversity of another culture in a more extensive way than a holiday can achieve? Possibly contribute to the development of your profession in that country? Could you pass on your skills to others and also learn from them in all aspects of life, both professionally and personally? I was fortunate enough to have this experience, working as the Principal Pharmacist (Training) for the Solomon Islands Government for the last two years. I wrote this paper to share some of those experiences with the readers of this journal. I hope to convey some of the joys and frustrations of my experience in this short account.
Coding Drug‐Related Admissions in Medical Records: Is it Adequate for Monitoring the Quality of Medication Use?
Authors: Roughead Elizabeth E , Gilbert Andrew L , Primrose John G , Sansom Lloyd N
Published: March 2016

To determine the proportion of drug‐related hospital admissions which are correctly coded in the medical record.
Comparison of High‐Dose and Standard‐Dose Pancreatic Enzyme Capsules in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Robinson Philip J , Natoli Grace
Published: March 2016

Objective: To compare the efficacy of a high‐dose, pancreatic enzyme supplement Creon Forte to that of a standard pancreatic enzyme supplement Cotazym S Forte in a group of children with cystic fibrosis.

Methodology: 18 children with cystic fibrosis were enrolled in a 4‐week open‐labelled, randomised, twoperiod, crossover study in which equal doses of lipase were provided by either Creon Forte or Cotazym S Forte. Efficacy was determined by a 4‐day faecal fat study at the end of each 2‐week period. Patients were also asked to record daily the degree of abdominal symptoms including abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting and anorexia.

Results: No significant differences were found between the two enzyme preparations as assessed by fat absorption studies when equivalent doses of lipase were used. The mean fat absorption for Creon Forte was 89% and 91% for Cotazym S Forte (p > 0.05). This allowed a 2.5‐fold reduction in the number of capsules taken per day with Creon Forte compared to Cotazym S Forte. Scoring of abdominal symptoms were not significantly different between the two medications. The 14 patients who completed the trial preferred Creon Forte.

Conclusions: Creon Forte is as effective as Cotazym S Forte in improving fat absorption in children with cystic fibrosis when equivalent doses of lipase are used with a lower number of capsules.
Optimisation of Drug Delivery: 7. Bioreversible Chemical Modifications of Drugs
Authors: Prankerd Richard J , Benson Heather AE
Published: March 2016

This article reviews the appplication of bioreversible chemical modification to overcome drug delivery or drug utilisation problems. This involves the use of prodrugs, ‘soft’ drugs and chemical delivery systems. Mechanisms are outlined for some specific examples. Drug products available in Australia which are based on these approaches are listed. As this area of drug delivery optimisation is still developing, examples which indicate future directions have been selected for review.
Australian Perspectives on the BPS Examinations
Authors: Cosh David G , Fowler Peter R , Galbraith Kirsten J , Alderman Christopher P
Published: March 2016

Specialist clinical pharmacy certification is available from the American Pharmaceutical Association through its Board of Pharmaceutical Specialities (BPS). Four Australian pharmacists who were supported by the Society through its Grants and Awards program describe the experience they gained in preparing for, and successfully sitting, the examinations in pharmacotherapy and psychiatry. The examinations are well conducted, clinically relevant and rigorous. As more Australian practitioners take the BPS exam, there will be a group able to work with the Society in making relevant specialist professional qualifications more accessible to Australian pharmacists.
Penicillin Allergy Documentation and Reliability in Two SydneyTeaching Hospitals
Authors: Armour Carol L , Jabbour Helen , Enggist Sonia L , Sucic Kim A , Tierney Johneen M , Atkin Philip A
Published: March 2016

To study the accuracy and consistency of penicillin allergy reporting in two teaching hospitals.
Missed Doses An Evaluation in Two Drug Distribution Systems
Authors: Boyle Clare M , Maxwell David J , Meguid Suzan E , Ouaida Dima , Krass Ines
Published: March 2016

To compare the rates and causes of missed doses in a modified unit dose drug distribution system versus an imprest system. A secondary aim was to seek the views of nurses and pharmacists on how the systems could be improved.
Cancer Chemotherapy: Potential Errors with External Referrals
Authors: Gilbar Peter J
Published: March 2016

To determine the incidence of potential or actual medication errors in cancer chemotherapy of patients referred from other institutions.
Improving Medication Outcomes in Older People
Authors: Lim Wen Kwang , Woodward Michael C
Published: March 2016

Older people are at risk of adverse medication events due to altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, polypharmacy and inappropriate prescribing. Polypharmacy also contributes to increased non‐compliance, a major problem associated with drug therapy. It is important to understand the magnitude of the problem and the factors responsible for adverse medication events. Effective strategies to address issues of poly‐pharmacy, inappropriate prescribing and medication non‐compliance are discussed. The multidisciplinary approach, involving the prescriber and the pharmacist, appears to be an essential component in improving medication outcomes in older people.
Optimisation of Drug Delivery 12. Delivery of Gene Therapy
Authors: Prankerd Richard J , Benson Heather AE
Published: March 2016

The potential for gene therapy of some genetically based human diseases is given, then some fundamental background on the structure and mechanism of action for genes. Some important approaches to the delivery of genetic material to cells and some of the advantages and problems of this aspect of human disease treatment are outlined. Routes of administration for genetic material are briefly discussed.
Raised INR with Concurrent Warfarin and Azithromycin
Authors: Wiese Michael D , Cosh David G
Published: March 2016

Warfarin interacts with various antibiotics with varying clinical significance. Two patients who were stable on warfarin had clinically significant increases in INRs when azithromycin was introduced. In one, the increased INR was associated with asymptomatic alterations in liver function tests. We believe close monitoring ofINR is warranted when patients are treated concurrently with warfarin and azithromycin.