bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review of sleep disorders in cancer patients: can the prevalence of sleep disorders be ascertained?
Authors: Otte Julie L. , Carpenter Janet S. , Manchanda Shalini , Rand Kevin L. , Skaar Todd C. , Weaver Michael , Chernyak Yelena , Zhong Xin , Igega Christele , Landis Carol
Published: December 2014

Although sleep is vital to all human functioning and poor sleep is a known problem in cancer, it is unclear whether the overall prevalence of the various types of sleep disorders in cancer is known. The purpose of this systematic literature review was to evaluate if the prevalence of sleep disorders could be ascertained from the current body of literature regarding sleep in cancer. This was a critical and systematic review of peer‐reviewed, English‐language, original articles published from 1980 through 15 October 2013, identified using electronic search engines, a set of key words, and prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Information from 254 full‐text, English‐language articles was abstracted onto a paper checklist by one reviewer, with a second reviewer randomly verifying 50% (k = 99%). All abstracted data were entered into an electronic database, verified for accuracy, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and frequencies in SPSS (v.20) (North Castle, NY). Studies of sleep and cancer focus on specific types of symptoms of poor sleep, and there are no published prevalence studies that focus on underlying sleep disorders. Challenging the current paradigm of the way sleep is studied in cancer could produce better clinical screening tools for use in oncology clinics leading to better triaging of patients with sleep complaints to sleep specialists, and overall improvement in sleep quality.
Zerumbone increases oxidative stress in a thiol‐dependent ROS‐independent manner to increase DNA damage and sensitize colorectal cancer cells to radiation
Authors: Deorukhkar Amit , Ahuja Niharika , Mercado Armando‐Lopez , Diagaradjane Parmeswaran , Raju Uma , Patel Nalini , Mohindra Pranshu , Diep Nga , Guha Sushovan , Krishnan Sunil
Published: December 2014

Locally advanced rectal cancers are treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy followed by surgery. In a minority (~20%) of patients, no tumor is present at the time of surgery; these patients with a complete pathologic response (pathCR) to neoadjuvant therapy have better treatment outcomes. Unfortunately, the inherent radioresistance of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells dictates that the majority of patients do not achieve a pathCR. Efforts to improve these odds have fueled the search for novel, relatively less‐toxic radiosensitizers with distinct molecular mechanism(s) and broad‐spectrum anticancer activities. Here, we use zerumbone, a sesquiterpene from the edible ginger (Zingiber zerumbet Smith), to enhance radiosensitivity of CRC cells. Short exposure to zerumbone (7 h) profoundly sensitized CRC cells, independent of their p53 or k‐RAS status. Zerumbone enhanced radiation‐induced cell cycle arrest (G2/M), increased radiation‐induced apoptosis, but induced little apoptosis by itself. Zerumbone significantly enhanced radiation‐induced DNA damage, as evident by delayed resolution of post‐irradiation nuclear γH2AX foci, whereas zerumbone treatment alone did not induce γH2AX foci formation. Zerumbone pretreatment inhibited radiation‐induced nuclear expression of DNA repair proteins ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and DNA‐PKcs. Interestingly, zerumbone‐mediated radiosensitization did not involve reactive oxygen species (ROS), but was mediated through depletion of cellular glutathione (GSH). Ability of only thiol‐based antioxidants to abrogate zerumbone‐mediated radiosensitization further corroborated this hypothesis. The α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl group in zerumbone was found to be essential for its bioactivity as zerumbone analog α‐Humulene that lacks this functional group, could neither radiosensitize CRC cells, nor deplete cellular GSH. Our studies elucidate novel mechanism(s) of zerumbone's ability to enhance CRC radiosensitivity.
Design of LMI‐based sliding mode controller with an exponential policy for a class of underactuated systems
Authors: Mobayen Saleh
Published: December 2014

In this article, a novel sliding mode control (SMC) approach is proposed for the control of a class of underactuated systems which are featured as in cascaded form with external disturbances. The asymptotic stability conditions on the error dynamical system are expressed in the form of linear matrix inequalities. The control objective is to construct a controller such that would force the state trajectories to approach the sliding surface with an exponential policy. The proposed SMC has a simple structure because it is derived from the associated first‐order differential equation and is capable of handling system disturbances and nonlinearities. The effectiveness of the proposed control method is validated using intensive simulations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 117–124, 2016
Breathlessness at rest is not the dominant presentation of patients admitted with heart failure
Authors: Shoaib Ahmad , Waleed Mohammad , Khan Saima , Raza Ali , Zuhair Mohamed , Kassianides Xenophon , Djahit Ayse , Goode Kevin , Wong Kenneth , Rigby Alan , Clark Andrew , Cleland John
Published: December 2014

Aims

Many assume that most patients hospitalized with heart failure (HF) are short of breath at rest (SOBAR). The National HF Audit for England and Wales suggests that this assumption is false, which has profound implications for management

Methods and results

A retrospective case‐note review was carried out of patients hospitalized with HF to determine how many present with shortness of breath at rest or are comfortable at rest but breathless on slight exertion (CARBOSE). Vital signs were tracked for 24 h and mortality for 180 days. Of 311 patients, those who were SOBAR (42%) had higher median heart rate (HR) (100 vs. 85 b.p.m.; P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (SBP) (141 vs. 122 mmHg; P < 0.001), and respiratory rate (RR) (24 vs. 18 breaths/min; P < 0.001) compared with those who were CARBOSE (56%). Vital signs changed little in those who were CARBOSE over the first 4–6 h, but SBP (141–128 mmHg; P < 0.001), HR (100–90 b.p.m.; P = 0.002), and RR (24–20 breaths/min; P < 0.001) fell in those who were SOBAR. At presentation, SBP was >125 mmHg in 73% of patients who were SOBAR and in 46% who were CARBOSE, dropping to 52% and 37%, respectively, by 4–6 h. Mortality amongst those who were SOBAR and those who were CARBOSE was, respectively, 19% and 34% (odds ratio 2.29; P = 0.005, 95% confidence interval 1.29–4.06).

Conclusion

Many patients admitted with HF are CARBOSE. Shortness of breath at rest may be more alarming, but those who are CARBOSE have a worse prognosis, perhaps reflecting more severe right heart dysfunction. Clinical trials of hospitalized HF may inappropriately exclude patients if they focus on shortness of breath at rest rather than peripheral congestion.
Risk in the implementation of construction projects – defining the risk / Das Risiko in der Bauprojektabwicklung – Risikodefinition
Authors: Jodl Hans Georg
Published: December 2014

The article offers various definitions of risk and defines risk as the description of an incident, which in case of unhindered occurrence will with adequate probability lead to unintended consequences and resulting damage. The magnitude of the risk depends on the extent of damage and the probability of occurrence. One essential aspect of sensible handling of risks is the appropriate use of the tools of modern risk management. Risk management covers the phases of risk identification, risk assessment, risk mitigation and risk monitoring.

Der Beitrag stellt verschiedene Risikodefinitionen vor und präzisiert das Risiko als die Beschreibung eines Ereignisses, bei dem es für den Fall des ungehinderten Geschehnis' mit hinreichender Wahrscheinlichkeit zu einer Zielverfehlung und in der Folge zu einem Schadenseintritt kommt. Die Höhe des Risikos ist abhängig vom Schadensausmaß und der Eintrittswahrscheinlichkeit. Ein wesentlicher Aspekt im bewussten Umgang mit Risiken ist die konsequente Anwendung von Werkzeugen des modernen Risikomanagements. Risikomanagement umfasst die Phasen Risikoidentifikation, Risikobewertung, Risikosteuerung und Risikokontrolle.
Financial Crises and the Dismissal of Central Bank Governors: New Evidence
Authors: Artha I. Kadek Dian Sutrisna , de Haan Jakob
Published: December 2014

This paper examines whether financial crises affect the likelihood that a central bank governor will be replaced. Employing a conditional fixed effects logit model for 101 countries during the period 1970–2007, we find that financial crises significantly increase the likelihood of a central bank governor turnover. When we decompose crises into banking, currency, and debt crises we find that banking crises and debt crises significantly increase the likelihood that a central bank governor will be replaced. Our results also suggest that financial crises increase the probability that a non‐government ally will be appointed as new central bank governor. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monetary Policy and International Reserves: Empirical Evidence from East Asian Countries
Authors: Shrestha Prakash K. , Semmler Willi
Published: December 2014

This paper estimates a monetary policy reaction function with international reserves as an additional variable in the five crisis‐affected East Asian countries by using an autoregressive distributed lag approach. An inclusion of international reserves in the reaction function seems to be justified on the ground that small open economies have to consider external constraint and financial stability in addition to conventional macroeconomic stability. Empirical findings suggest that monetary policy significantly reacts to the level of international reserves in these countries, particularly in the post‐crisis period, reflecting a fact that the conventional Taylor rule does not properly explain the monetary policy reaction in emerging economies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measuring Professional Identity Development Among Counselor Trainees
Authors: Prosek Elizabeth A. , Hurt Kara M.
Published: December 2014

This study examined the differences in professional identity development between novice and advanced counselor trainees (N = 161). Multivariate analyses of variance indicated significant differences between groups. Specifically, advanced counselor trainees demonstrated greater professional development compared with novice counselor trainees. No differences existed between groups with understanding of professional orientation and values. Implications are presented.
Emotional Intelligence or Personality in Resistance to Change? Empirical Results in an Italian Health Care Context
Authors: Di Fabio Annamaria , Bernaud Jean‐Luc , Loarer Even
Published: December 2014

This study investigated the role of personality traits and emotional intelligence in relation to resistance to change. The Eysenck Personality Questionnaire–Revised Short Form, the Bar‐On Emotional Quotient Inventory, and the Resistance to Change Scale were administered to 274 Italian physicians and nurses. With respect to resistance to change, the study revealed that emotional intelligence added a significant percentage of incremental variance compared with personality trait variances. The results highlight the role of emotional intelligence and its relationship with resistance to change and offer new research and intervention perspectives for career development and career counseling.
Assessment of the drug interaction potential and single‐ and repeat‐dose pharmacokinetics of the BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib
Authors: Suttle A. Benjamin , Grossmann Kenneth F. , Ouellet Daniele , Richards‐Peterson Lauren E. , Aktan Gursel , Gordon Michael S. , LoRusso Patricia M. , Infante Jeffrey R. , Sharma Sunil , Kendra Kari , Patel Manish , Pant Shubham , Arkenau Hendrik‐Tobias , Middleton Mark R. , Blackman Samuel C. , Botbyl Jeff , Carson Stanley W.
Published: December 2014

The induction of CYP2C9 by dabrafenib using S‐warfarin as a probe and the effects of a CYP3A inhibitor (ketoconazole) and a CYP2C8 inhibitor (gemfibrozil) on dabrafenib pharmacokinetics were evaluated in patients with BRAF V600 mutation‐positive tumors. Dabrafenib single‐ and repeat‐dose pharmacokinetics were also evaluated. S‐warfarin AUC0–∞ decreased 37% and Cmax increased 18% with dabrafenib. Dabrafenib AUC0–τ and Cmax increased 71% and 33%, respectively, with ketoconazole. Hydroxy‐ and desmethyl‐dabrafenib AUC0–τ increased 82% and 68%, respectively, and AUC for carboxy‐dabrafenib decreased 16%. Dabrafenib AUC0–τ increased 47%, with no change in Cmax, after gemfibrozil co‐administration. Gemfibrozil did not affect systemic exposure to dabrafenib metabolites. Single‐ and repeat‐dose dabrafenib pharmacokinetics were consistent with previous reports. All cohorts used the commercial capsules. More‐frequent monitoring of international normalized ratios is recommended in patients receiving warfarin during initiation or discontinuation of dabrafenib. Substitution of strong inhibitors or strong inducers of CYP3A or CYP2C8 is recommended during treatment with dabrafenib.
Pharmacokinetics of dolutegravir when administered with mineral supplements in healthy adult subjects
Authors: Song Ivy , Borland Julie , Arya Niki , Wynne Brian , Piscitelli Stephen
Published: December 2014

All commercially available integrase inhibitors are 2‐metal binders and may be affected by co‐administration with metal cations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of calcium and iron supplements on dolutegravir pharmacokinetics and strategies (dose separation and food) to attenuate the effects if significant reductions in dolutegravir exposure were observed. This was an open‐label, crossover study that randomized 24 healthy subjects into 1 of 2 cohorts to receive 4 treatments: (1) dolutegravir alone, fasting; (2) dolutegravir with calcium carbonate or ferrous fumarate, fasting; (3) dolutegravir with calcium carbonate or ferrous fumarate with a moderate‐fat meal; (4) dolutegravir administered 2 hours before calcium carbonate or ferrous fumarate, fasting. Plasma dolutegravir AUC(0–∞), Cmax, and C24 were reduced by 39%, 37%, and 39%, respectively, when co‐administered with calcium carbonate while fasting and were reduced by 54%, 57%, and 56%, respectively, when co‐administered with ferrous fumarate while fasting. Dolutegravir administration 2 hours before calcium or iron supplement administration (fasted), as well as administration with a meal, counteracted the effect. Dolutegravir and calcium or iron supplements can be co‐administered if taken with a meal. Under fasted conditions, dolutegravir should be administered 2 hours before or 6 hours after calcium or iron supplements.
Long‐term addition of micro‐amounts of hydrazine enhances nitrogen removal and reduces NO and NO3− production in a SBR performing Anammox
Authors: Yao Zongbao , Zhang Daijun , Xiao Pengying , Peng Shuchan , Lu Peili , Wan Xinyu , He Qiang
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

N2H4 and NO are the important intermediates of Anammox. The appropriate addition of N2H4 weakens the inhibitory effect of NO2− on anaerobic ammonium oxidation bacteria (AnAOB) activity. The effect of long‐term addition of micro‐amounts of N2H4 was investigated in this study.

RESULTS

A sequencing batch reactor (SBR) performing Anammox could run stably during long‐term addition of micro‐amounts of N2H4. The nitrogen removal rate and efficiency of the SBR with micro‐amounts of N2H4 addition were higher than the SBR without N2H4 addition. The molar ratio of NO3− production to NH4+ removal (MRNN) decreased to 0.12, significantly lower than the expected stoichiometry of Anammox. The NO emission decreased by more than 15%. The addition of micro‐amounts of N2H4 could weaken the inhibition of NO2− to the activity of AnAOB.

CONCLUSION

The electrons released from the oxidation of added N2H4 by AnAOB acclimated under long‐term micro‐amounts of N2H4 addition replenish the loss of electrons due to the diffusive loss of intermediates in AnAOB metabolism, enhance the activity of AnAOB and accelerate the NO consumption with resulting decreased NO emission. The oxidation of added N2H4 partially substitutes the oxidation of NO2− to NO3− for the anabolism of AnAOB with resulting significantly decreased production of NO3−.© 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Extraction of thymol from different varieties of thyme plants using green solvents
Authors: Villanueva Bermejo David , Angelov Ivan , Vicente Gonzalo , Stateva Roumiana P , Rodriguez García‐Risco Mónica , Reglero Guillermo , Ibañez Elena , Fornari Tiziana
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND

Thymol (2‐isopropyl‐5‐methylphenol) is the main monoterpene phenol found in thyme essential oil. This compound has revealed several biological properties, including antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In this work, a comparison was made between the performance of different green solvents (ethanol, limonene and ethyl lactate), by pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) and supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) at different conditions, to extract thymol from three different varieties of thyme (Thymus vulgaris, Thymus zygis and Thymus citriodorus). Additionally, new solubility data of thymol in limonene and ethanol at ambient pressure and temperatures in the range 30–43 °C are reported.

RESULTS

The highest thymol recoveries were attained with T. vulgaris (7–11 mg g−1). No thymol could be quantified in the PLE samples of T. citriodorus. The highest concentrations of thymol in the extracts were obtained with limonene. Thymol is very soluble in both solvents, particularly in ethanol (∼900 mg g−1 at ∼40 °C), and is the main compound (in terms of peak area) present in the essential oil extracts obtained.

CONCLUSION

The three solvents show good capacity to extract thymol from T. vulgaris and T. zygis by PLE. Although PLE proved to be a suitable technology to extract thymol from thyme plants, the highest concentrations of thymol were obtained by SFE with supercritical CO2. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Mortality in Parkinson's disease: A 38‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Pinter Bernadette , Diem‐Zangerl Anja , Wenning Gregor Karl , Scherfler Christoph , Oberaigner Willi , Seppi Klaus , Poewe Werner
Published: December 2014

Background

In this study we report on the outcome including overall and cause‐specific mortality of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients subsequent to 38 years of surveillance. This is an extension study of our previous report on mortality.

Methods

Two hundred thirty‐seven patients with a symptom onset between 1974 and 1984 were followed until the date of December 31, 2012 or death, representing a follow‐up period of up to 38 years. Overall and cause‐specific standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated, and predictors for survival at disease onset were estimated.

Results and Conclusion

Two hundred thirty patients had died by December 31, 2012; a total of 3,489 person‐years were available for observation. The SMR at 38 years of follow‐up was 2.02 (1.76‐2.29). Employing Cox's proportional hazard modeling, male sex, gait disorder, absence of classical rest tremor, and absence of asymmetry predicted poor survival in this cohort. Increased cause‐specific SMRs were found for pneumonia and cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Levodopa therapy for Parkinson's disease: Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
Authors: LeWitt Peter A.
Published: December 2014

For all its imperfections at treating Parkinson's disease (PD), orally‐administered levodopa (l‐dopa) can be regarded as the “platinum” standard of PD therapeutics for its impact on disability and discomfort and its cost‐effectiveness. The past half‐century has confirmed that the typical l‐dopa–treated patient gains improvement for most Parkinsonian features, presumably by conversion of this amino acid into dopamine in the striatum. However, fundamental questions remain as to its full mechanism of action and how adverse reactions evolve. Various aspects of clinical phenomenology associated with chronic l‐dopa use (such as dyskinesias and the long‐duration anti‐Parkinsonian response) present a continuing challenge for better understanding of its pharmacology. The pharmacokinetics of l‐dopa tend to predict some of problems that can emerge during chronic therapy, which can be linked with its irregular uptake and marked dose‐by‐dose variability in plasma concentrations. Several new pharmaceutical approaches are targeted at the unique physiology of l‐dopa uptake and are likely to improve the consistency of its anti‐Parkinsonian effect. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Diagnosing PD‐MCI by MDS task force criteria: How many and which neuropsychological tests?
Authors: Goldman Jennifer G. , Holden Samantha , Ouyang Bichun , Bernard Bryan , Goetz Christopher G. , Stebbins Glenn T.
Published: December 2014

Background

The optimal properties of a comprehensive (level II) neuropsychological battery for determining Parkinson's disease mild cognitive impairment (PD‐MCI) by Movement Disorder Society (MDS) Task Force criteria remain unresolved.

Methods

Seventy‐six nondemented PD patients underwent PD‐MCI classification using a consensus diagnosis and level II criteria. We examined the optimal number of tests in each of the five designated cognitive domains, identified the best tests within each domain, and determined the best overall battery for PD‐MCI level II diagnosis.

Results

A battery with two tests per domain provided a highly practical, robust diagnostic assessment. Level II testing with the two best tests and impairment defined as 2 standard deviations below norms was highly sensitive and specific for PD‐MCI diagnosis.

Conclusions

Our findings strongly support the MDS Task Force Level II testing recommendations, provide a framework for creating an optimal, efficient neuropsychological test battery for PD‐MCI diagnosis, and offer specific test recommendations. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
YOUR HANDS ARE (NOT) TIED: SCHOOL‐BASED ETHICS WHEN PARENTS REVOKE SPECIAL EDUCATION CONSENT
Authors: Stein Rachel , Sharkey Jill
Published: December 2014

Parents currently have the unilateral ability to reject special education services. Yet, it is unclear how schools should support students with special education needs in this situation as schools may not challenge a parent's choice to revoke special education assessment consent or the provision of services. Guidelines for school professionals to address this quandary currently do not exist, thus this paper will draw on legal mandates, court precedents, and ethical analysis to provide recommendations for appropriate responses to these situations. In particular, what the related laws dictate, how to support students in the general education classroom, and how to deal with behavior and disciplinary infractions are discussed with attention to the National Association of School Psychologist's ethics for school psychologists.
Holographic entanglement entropy of multiple strips
Authors: Ben-Ami Omer , Carmi Dean , Sonnenschein Jacob
Published: December 2014

Abstract

We study holographic entanglement entropy (HEE) of m strips in various holographic theories. We prove that for m strips with equal lengths and equal separations, there are only 2 bulk minimal surfaces. For backgrounds which contain also “disconnected” surfaces, there are only 4 bulk minimal surfaces. Depending on the length of the strips and separation between them, the HEE exhibits first order “geometric” phase transitions between bulk minimal surfaces with different topologies. We study these different phases and display various phase diagrams. For confining geometries with m strips, we find new classes of “disconnected” bulk minimal surfaces, and the resulting phase diagrams have a rich structure. We also study the “entanglement plateau” transition, where we consider the BTZ black hole in global coordinates with 2 strips. It is found that there are 4 bulk minimal surfaces, and the resulting phase diagram is displayed. We perform a general perturbative analysis of the m-strip system: including perturbing the CFT and perturbing the length or separation of the strips.
Neutralino and gravitino dark matter with low reheating temperature
Authors: Roszkowski L. , Trojanowski S. , Turzynski K.
Published: December 2014

Abstract

We examine a scenario in which the reheating temperature T

R
after inflation is so low that it is comparable to, or lower than, the freeze out temperature of ordinary WIMPs. In this case the relic abundance of dark matter is reduced, thus relaxing the impact of the usually strong constraint coming from the requirement that the universe does not overclose. We first re-examine the dynamics of freezeout during reheating. Next we study the parameter space of the MSSM with ten free parameters, the Constrained MSSM and the singlino-dominated regions of the Next-to-MSSM. In each case we often find dramatic departures from the usually considered regime of high T

R
, with important implications for direct detection dark matter searches. In particular, in the MSSM we examine WIMP mass range up to about 5 TeV, and we find large regions of bino dark matter over the whole mass range, and of higgsino dark matter with mass over a similar range but starting from the ∼ 1 TeV value of the standard high T

R
scenario. We show that the prospects for bino detection strongly depend on T

R
, while the higgsino is for the most part detectable by future one-tonne detectors. The wino, which is excluded in the standard scenario, becomes allowed again if its mass is roughly above 3.5 TeV, and can also be partially detectable. In the CMSSM, the bino and higgsino mass ranges become much more constrained although detection prospects remain roughly similar. In the Next-to-MSSM we show that, at low enough T

R
wide ranges of singlino-dominated parameter space of the model become again cosmologically allowed, although detection prospects remain nearly hopeless. We also study the non-thermal contribution to the DM relic density from direct and cascade decays of the inflaton. Finally, in the framework of the MSSM we consider the case of a gravitino as dark matter. In this case we find strong bounds from overclosure and from Big Bang Nucleosynthesis, and derive lower limits on T

R
which depend on the gravitino mass and on the nature of the lightest ordinary superpartner.
Blood Transfusion is Associated with Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Hepatectomy in Child–Pugh Class A Patients
Authors: Harada Noboru , Shirabe Ken , Maeda Takashi , Kayashima Hiroto , Ishida Teruyoshi , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Previous reports have indicated an association between blood transfusion and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after hepatectomy. However, clinicopathological biases were not adjusted in these studies. We aimed to clarify the effect of blood transfusions in patients with HCC and Child–Pugh class A after hepatectomy by using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis for selection bias control.

Materials and methods

We enrolled 479 patients with primary HCC and Child–Pugh class A retrospectively (91 transfused and 388 nontransfused patients) who underwent curative hepatectomy. After adjusting for different covariate distributions for both groups by IPTW, we analyzed the prognostic outcomes.

Results

In the unweighted analyses, overall survival (OS) rate of transfused patients was significantly lower than in nontransfused patients (P < 0.0001). Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) rate of transfused patients was significantly lower than that of nontransfused patients (P = 0.0024). Multivariate analysis showed that blood transfusion was an independent prognostic factor of OS and RFS. The different distributive covariates between the two groups were age, presence of liver cirrhosis, serum level of alpha‐fetoprotein, maximum tumor diameter, and amount of intraoperative blood loss. After IPTW by these covariates, OS rate of transfused patients was not significantly lower than those of nontransfused patients, whereas RFS rate of transfused patients remained significantly lower than those of nontransfused patients (P = 0.038, adjusted HR 1.45; 95 % CI 1.0–2.1).

Conclusions

These results suggest that blood transfusion was associated with recurrence of HCC after hepatectomy in patients with HCC and Child–Pugh class A.
The Impact of Feedback of Surgical Outcome Data on Surgical Performance: A Systematic Review
Authors: Maruthappu Mahiben , Trehan Abhishek , Barnett‐Vanes Ashton , McCulloch Peter , Carty Matthew J.
Published: December 2014

Background

Increasing patient demands, costs and emphasis on safety have led to performance tracking of individual surgeons. Several methods of using these data, including feedback have been proposed. Our aim was to systematically review the impact of feedback of outcome data to surgeons on their performance.

Study design

MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, AMED and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (from their inception to February 2013) were searched. Two reviewers independently reviewed citations using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Forty two data‐points per study were extracted.

Results

The search strategy yielded 1,531 citations. Seven studies were eligible comprising 18,632 cases or procedures by 52 surgeons. Overall, feedback was found to be a powerful method for improving surgical outcomes or indicators of surgical performance, including reductions in hospital mortality after CABG of 24 % (P = 0.001), decreases of stroke and mortality following carotid endarterectomy from 5.2 to 2.3 %, improved ovarian cancer resection from 77 to 85 % (P = 0.157) and reductions in wound infection rates from 14 to 10.3 %. Improvements in performance occurred in concert with reduced costs: for hepaticojejunostomy, implementation of feedback was associated with a decrease in overall hospital costs from $24,446 to $20,240 (P < 0.01). Similarly, total cost of carotid endarterectomy and following management decreased from $13,344 to $9548.

Conclusions

The available literature suggests that feedback can improve surgical performance and outcomes; however, given the heterogeneity and limited number of studies, in addition to their non‐randomised nature, it is difficult to draw clear conclusions from the literature with regard to the efficacy of feedback and the specific nuances required to optimise the impact of feedback. There is a clear need for more rigorous studies to determine how feedback of outcome data may impact performance, and whether this low‐cost intervention has potential to benefit surgical practice.
Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma with Exclusive Involvement of a Functioning Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve May Be Treated with Shaving Technique
Authors: Lee Hyoung Shin , Kim Sung Won , Park Taejung , Nam Gi Yun , Hong Jong Chul , Lee Kang Dae
Published: December 2014

Objectives

We sought to validate the feasibility of preserving a functioning recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) invaded by papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) using a shaving technique followed by high‐dose radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy.

Methods

A retrospective review of 34 patients with locally invasive PTC who had exclusive tumor involvement of a functioning RLN was performed. All patients underwent total thyroidectomy and high‐dose RAI therapy. A shaving technique was conducted with the goal of leaving the smallest amount of residual tumor as possible while attempting to preserve nerve function. Clinicopathologic factors and oncologic outcomes of the patients with resected RLN (group A, n = 14) and preserved RLN (group B, n = 20) were compared.

Results

The two groups showed no differences in clinicopathologic factors or follow‐up period. Mean dose of radioiodine therapy was 245.0 ± 140.3 mCi (range 100–540 mCi). Permanent postoperative vocal cord paralysis after RLN shaving occurred in two patients of group B (10 %). Only one patient (5 %) in group B had local recurrence at the thyroid bed where the residual tumor was located. The overall recurrence rate was 35.7 % (5/14) and 20.0 % (4/20) in groups A and B, respectively showing no significant difference (p = 0.525). There were no cases of death due to PTC during the median follow‐up of 75 months (range 36–159 months).

Conclusions

Patients with locally invasive PTC with exclusive involvement of a functioning RLN may be treated by nerve shaving followed by treatment of the macroscopic residual tumor with high‐dose RAI therapy.
Arctic sea ice and Eurasian climate: A review
Authors: Gao Yongqi , Sun Jianqi , Li Fei , He Shengping , Sandven Stein , Yan Qing , Zhang Zhongshi , Lohmann Katja , Keenlyside Noel , Furevik Tore , Suo Lingling
Published: December 2014

The Arctic plays a fundamental role in the climate system and has shown significant climate change in recent decades, including the Arctic warming and decline of Arctic sea-ice extent and thickness. In contrast to the Arctic warming and reduction of Arctic sea ice, Europe, East Asia and North America have experienced anomalously cold conditions, with record snowfall during recent years. In this paper, we review current understanding of the sea-ice impacts on the Eurasian climate. Paleo, observational and modelling studies are covered to summarize several major themes, including: the variability of Arctic sea ice and its controls; the likely causes and apparent impacts of the Arctic sea-ice decline during the satellite era, as well as past and projected future impacts and trends; the links and feedback mechanisms between the Arctic sea ice and the Arctic Oscillation/North Atlantic Oscillation, the recent Eurasian cooling, winter atmospheric circulation, summer precipitation in East Asia, spring snowfall over Eurasia, East Asian winter monsoon, and midlatitude extreme weather; and the remote climate response (e.g., atmospheric circulation, air temperature) to changes in Arctic sea ice. We conclude with a brief summary and suggestions for future research.
2-Keto acids based biosynthesis pathways for renewable fuels and chemicals
Authors: Tashiro Yohei , Rodriguez Gabriel M , Atsumi Shota
Published: December 2014

Global energy and environmental concerns have driven the development of biological chemical production from renewable sources. Biological processes using microorganisms are efficient and have been traditionally utilized to convert biomass (i.e., glucose) to useful chemicals such as amino acids. To produce desired fuels and chemicals with high yield and rate, metabolic pathways have been enhanced and expanded with metabolic engineering and synthetic biology approaches. 2-Keto acids, which are key intermediates in amino acid biosynthesis, can be converted to a wide range of chemicals. 2-Keto acid pathways were engineered in previous research efforts and these studies demonstrated that 2-keto acid pathways have high potential for novel metabolic routes with high productivity. In this review, we discuss recently developed 2-keto acid-based pathways.
13‐Oxo‐9(Z),11(E),15(Z)‐octadecatrienoic Acid Activates Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor γ in Adipocytes
Authors: Takahashi Haruya , Hara Hideyuki , Goto Tsuyoshi , Kamakari Kosuke , Wataru Nomura , Mohri Shinsuke , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Suzuki Hideyuki , Shibata Daisuke , Kawada Teruo
Published: December 2014

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)γ is expressed in adipose tissue and plays a key role in the regulation of adipogenesis. PPARγ activators are known to have potent antihyperglycemic activity and are used to treat insulin resistance associated with diabetes. Therefore, many natural and synthetic agonists of PPARγ are used in the treatment of glucose disorders. In the present study, we found that 13‐oxo‐9(Z),11(E),15(Z)‐octadecatrienoic acid (13‐oxo‐OTA), a linolenic acid derivative, is present in the extract of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata), and bitter gourd (Momordica charantia). We also found that 13‐oxo‐OTA activated PPARγ and induced the mRNA expression of PPARγ target genes in adipocytes, thereby promoting differentiation. Furthermore, 13‐oxo‐OTA induced secretion of adiponectin and stimulated glucose uptake in adipocytes. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report that 13‐oxo‐OTA induces adipogenesis through PPARγ activation and to present 13‐oxo‐OTA as a valuable food‐derived compound that may be applied in the management of glucose metabolism disorders.
Characterization of Volatile Compounds of Virgin Olive Oil Originating from the USA
Authors: Zhu Hanjiang , Tang Shuaikun , Shoemaker Charles F. , Wang Selina C.
Published: December 2014

The volatile profiles of virgin olive oils originating from the USA were first studied: 71 volatile compounds were identified in 21 monovarietal virgin olive oils using solid‐phase microextraction–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, representing 100 % of the headspace composition. Principal component analysis (PCA) allowed for the grouping of olive oils based on geographical origin, and also the distinguishing of olive oil varieties by their relative positions in the group; 17 distinguishable volatile compounds that significantly contributed to the olive oil classification were found to be distributed on a PCA plot according to their sensory attributes. Moreover, the major volatile components were compared among varieties and origins to clarify the genetic and geographic influences. Our results indicate the significant effects of both origin and cultivar on the volatile composition of olive oil as well as the dominant role of the geographic effect compared to the genetic effect on applied samples.
Hygienic Nature: Afforestation and the greening of colonial Hong Kong
Authors: PECKHAM ROBERT
Published: December 2014

This article examines the ‘greening’ of Hong Kong in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with an emphasis on the afforestation of the colony's ‘barren’ mountainsides from the 1880s. To date, histories of Hong Kong have tended to focus on the colonial state's urban interventions, particularly on the draconian measures it took to ‘sanitize’ Chinese districts. In contrast, this article connects Hong Kong's urban development with the history of green space and the cultivation of ‘nature’. While the state sought to transform the ‘barren rock’ into a visible correlate of the colony's aspiring status as an imperial hub in Asia, the promotion of hygiene and health provided a further rationale for tree-planting. The article argues that colonial Hong Kong provides insights into the ‘tropicalization of modernity’ and the constitutive processes by which colonial power was naturalized and legitimated through planning practices that extended from the urban to the natural. A study of Hong Kong's afforestation underscores the importance of the natural environment as a ‘contact zone’ between colonial and ‘native’ cultures; it also reveals the extent to which the equation of a ‘green’ landscape with economic (re)production and colonial order, functioned as a critical trope for framing race and labour.
Resistance to Hunting in Pre-independence India: Religious environmentalism, ecological nationalism or cultural conservation?
Authors: RASHKOW EZRA
Published: December 2014

This article presents new evidence with which to evaluate the validity of the popular picture of religious environmentalism in India. It examines accounts of a large number of incidents described in Indian language newspapers, the colonial archive, and hunting literature published between the 1870s and 1940s, in which British and other sportsmen clashed with villagers in India while out hunting. During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the colonial sports-hunting obsession was in its heyday, but opposition to hunting across India was also mounting. Rural villagers, in particular, were often willing to become involved in physical combat with hunters, apparently in order to protect local wildlife. Sportsmen often assumed that it was religious fanaticism that made Hindus defend the lives of what they saw as game animals, trophies, and specimens. The article provides evidence that, in addition to religion, a mixture of other motivations explains Hindu interest in the conservation of certain species. Anti-colonial consciousness, assertions of local authority and territoriality, and an environmental ethic can all be identified as being at work. The end result was the increased conservation of certain species of wildlife.
Development of the microsporidian parasite, Loma salmonae, in a rainbow trout gill epithelial cell line (RTG-1): evidence of xenoma development in vitro
Authors: McCONNACHIE S. H. , SHEPPARD J. , WRIGHT G. M. , SPEARE D. J.
Published: December 2014

Growth and propagation of fish-infecting microsporidians within cell culture has been more difficult to achieve than for insect- and human-infecting microsporidians. Fish microsporidia tend to elicit xenoma development rather than diffuse growth in vivo, and this process likely increases host specificity. We present evidence that the fish microsporidian, Loma salmonae, has the capacity to develop xenomas within a rainbow trout gill epithelial cell line (RTG-1). Spore numbers increased over a 4 weeks period within cell culture flasks. Xenoma-like structures were observed using phase contrast microscopy, and then confirmed using transmission electron microscopy. Optimization of the L. salmonae-RTG-1 cell model has important implications in elucidating the process of xenoma development induced by microsporidian parasites.
Prevalence ofToxoplasma gondiiin localized populations ofApodemus sylvaticusis linked to population genotype not to population location
Authors: BAJNOK J. , BOYCE K. , ROGAN M. T. , CRAIG P. S. , LUN Z. R. , HIDE G.
Published: December 2014

Toxoplasma gondiiis a globally distributed parasite infecting humans and warm-blooded animals. Although many surveys have been conducted forT. gondiiinfection in mammals, little is known about the detailed distribution in localized natural populations. In this study, host genotype and spatial location were investigated in relation toT. gondiiinfection. Wood mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) were collected from 4 sampling sites within a localized peri-aquatic woodland ecosystem. Mice were genotyped using standardA. sylvaticusmicrosatellite markers andT. gondiiwas detected using 4 specific PCR-based markers: SAG1, SAG2, SAG3 and GRA6 directly from infected tissue. Of 126 wood mice collected, 44 samples were positive giving an infection rate of 34·92% (95% CI: 27·14–43·59%). Juvenile, young adults and adults were infected at a similar prevalence, respectively, 7/17 (41·18%), 27/65 (41·54%) and 10/44 (22·72%) with no significant age-prevalence effect (P = 0·23). Results of genetic analysis of the mice showed that the collection consists of 4 genetically distinct populations. There was a significant difference inT. gondiiprevalence in the different genotypically derived mouse populations (P = 0·035) but not between geographically defined populations (P = 0·29). These data point to either a host genetic/family influence on parasite infection or to parasite vertical transmission.
‘At home it's just so much easier to be yourself’: older adults' perceptions of ageing in place
Authors: STONES DAMIEN , GULLIFER JUDITH
Published: December 2014

By 2050, the number of people in Australia aged over 85 is expected to quadruple. Yet, from a socio-psychological research perspective, little is known about the experiences of people who continue to live at home during late old age (85 years and over), a period when challenging problems associated with ageing escalate and threaten to compromise independence. Utilising a qualitative methodology, the subjective lived experience of 23 very old adults (19 women, four men, with a mean age of 90.7 years, range 85–101 years) who live independently in rural Australia were elicited. The aims of the research were to understand their thoughts and feelings about ageing in place at home, and what psychological, social and practical adaptive strategies they employ to cope with difficulties encountered during very old age. In-depth interviews were analysed in an interpretive phenomenological tradition of thematic analysis, interpretation of paradigm cases and interpretation of exemplars. Participants described how historical, cultural and environmental contexts shaped their everyday thoughts, activities and what was meaningful for them. The findings add to our understanding of the largely unnarrated lives of the very old, suggest a need for person-centred home-care assessment processes and aid significant others (family, friends and neighbours) to understand better what very old adults need to live independently.
Extremal Numbers for Odd Cycles
Authors: FÜREDI ZOLTAN , GUNDERSON DAVID S.
Published: December 2014

We describe theC2k+1-free graphs onnvertices with maximum number of edges. The extremal graphs are unique forn∉ {3k− 1, 3k, 4k− 2, 4k− 1}. The value ofex(n,C2k+1) can be read out from the works of Bondy [3], Woodall [14], and Bollobás [1], but here we give a new streamlined proof. The complete determination of the extremal graphs is also new.

We obtain that the bound forn0(C2k+1) is 4kin the classical theorem of Simonovits, from which the unique extremal graph is the bipartite Turán graph.
Value congruence in health care priority setting: social values, institutions and decisions in three countries
Authors: Landwehr Claudia , Klinnert Dorothea
Published: December 2014

Most developed democracies have faced the challenge of priority setting in health care by setting up specialized agencies to take decisions on which medical services to include in public health baskets. Under the influence of Daniels and Sabin’s seminal work on the topic, agencies increasingly aim to fulfil criteria of procedural justice, such as accountability and transparency. We assume, however, that the institutional design of agencies also and necessarily reflects substantial value judgments on the respective weight of distributive principles such as efficiency, need and equality. The public acceptance of prioritization decisions, and eventually of the health care system at large, will ultimately depend not only on considerations of procedural fairness, but also on the congruence between a society’s values and its institutions. We study social values, institutions and decisions in three countries (France, Germany and the United Kingdom) in order to assess such congruence and formulate expectations on its effects.
An instantaneous colorimetric protein assay based on spontaneous formation of a protein corona on gold nanoparticles
Authors: Ho Yan Teck , Poinard Barbara , Yeo Eugenia Li Ling , Kah James Chen Yong
Published: December 2014

A schematic of the NP-based protein assay.
Self-catalysis by aminosilanes and strong surface oxidation by O2 plasma in plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition of high-quality SiO2
Authors: Fang Guo-Yong , Xu Li-Na , Cao Yan-Qiang , Wang Lai-Guo , Wu Di , Li Ai-Dong
Published: December 2014

In SiO2 PE-ALD, aminosilanes can self-catalyze Si–O formation and 1O2, 1O, and 3O can strongly oxidize surface –SiH to –SiOH.
Carbon coated K0.8Ti1.73Li0.27O4: a novel anode material for sodium-ion batteries with a long cycle life
Authors: Chen Kong-yao , Zhang Wu-xing , Liu Yang , Zhu Hua-ping , Duan Jian , Xiang Xing-hua , Xue Li-hong , Huang Yun-hui
Published: December 2014

A breakthrough has been made for layered K0.8Ti1.73Li0.27O4 as an anode material in sodium ion batteries via gaseous carbon coating, demonstrating a high capacity, excellent rate capability and long cycling life.
Facile synthesis of monodisperse Co3O4quantum dots with efficient oxygen evolution activity
Authors: Shi Nan , Cheng Wei , Zhou Han , Fan Tongxiang , Niederberger Markus
Published: December 2014

A facile solution method was developed for synthesis of monodisperse Co3O4quantum dots which exhibit efficient visible-light-driven oxygen evolution activity.