bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A local particle filter for high-dimensional geophysical systems
Authors: Penny Stephen G. , Miyoshi Takemasa
Published: November 2016

Abstract. A local particle filter (LPF) is introduced that outperforms traditional ensemble Kalman filters in highly nonlinear/non-Gaussian scenarios, both in accuracy and computational cost. The standard sampling importance resampling (SIR) particle filter is augmented with an observation-space localization approach, for which an independent analysis is computed locally at each grid point. The deterministic resampling approach of Kitagawa is adapted for application locally and combined with interpolation of the analysis weights to smooth the transition between neighboring points. Gaussian noise is applied with magnitude equal to the local analysis spread to prevent particle degeneracy while maintaining the estimate of the growing dynamical instabilities. The approach is validated against the local ensemble transform Kalman filter (LETKF) using the 40-variable Lorenz-96 (L96) model. The results show that (1) the accuracy of LPF surpasses LETKF as the forecast length increases (thus increasing the degree of nonlinearity), (2) the cost of LPF is significantly lower than LETKF as the ensemble size increases, and (3) LPF prevents filter divergence experienced by LETKF in cases with non-Gaussian observation error distributions.
Echocardiographic Detection of Left Ventricular Thrombus in Patients Undergoing Heartmate II Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation
Authors: Schubmehl Heidi B. , Tchantchaleishvili Vakhtang , Storoznsky Eugene , Alexis Jeffrey D. , Chen Leway , Massey Howard T.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiograms (TEE) are considered accurate in detecting the presence of left ventricular (LV) thrombus. A persistent LV thrombus poses risks of pump thrombosis and stroke in LVAD recipients. The relationship between pre-operative echocardiography and intraoperative findings at LVAD implantation has not previously been studied.

Methods

A retrospective review examined all patients undergoing LVAD placement or exchange from October 2011 to March 2014. Pre-Operative TTE and TEE data were validated with presence of LV thrombus during the direct inspection at the time of LVAD placement, and the findings were analyzed quantitatively.

Results

Between October 2011 and March 2014, 99 patients underwent a total of 107 LVAD implants. Pre-Operative TTE was available in 93 (86.9%) cases, while pre-operative TEE was available in 37 cases (34.6%). On pre-operative TTE, LV thrombus was correctly identified in only two cases, while on pre-operative TEE no cases of LV thrombus were identified correctly, and there were 2 false positive reports. Intraoperative inspection revealed presence of LV thrombus in 14 cases. The sensitivity of pre-operative TTE was 16.7% and the specificity 100% in detecting LVT, compared to 0% and 93.8%, respectively, for TEE.

Conclusions

Pre-Operative echocardiogram offers low accuracy for presence of LV thrombus. Overall, the sensitivity is too low to reliably exclude thrombus. This could have significant implications in planning off-pump LVAD exchange as thrombus could be missed. More data are necessary to determine whether this could have significant effects on thromboembolic complications and survival.
Severe dysphagia due to rapidly progressive pharyngoesophageal segment stenosis in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Jeffery Caroline C. , Jung Michelle
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To describe a case of pharyngo-esophageal segment involvement by systemic sclerosis resulting in severe and rapid progressive dysphagia refractory to management.

Case report

A 69-year-old female with known systemic sclerosis presented with progressive solid and liquid food dysphagia. Serial video fluoroscopic swallowing studies demonstrated progressive hypopharyngeal and upper esophageal sphincter stenosis along with oropharyngeal dysphagia. Attempted esophagogastroduodenoscopy by gastroenterology using a 5.4 mm diameter gastroscope failed to pass through the hypopharynx. Operative laryngoscopy demonstrated a 3 mm hypopharyngeal lumen extending for 2 cm into the cervical esophagus. The stenosis was cannulated and dilated to 10 mm, but remained refractory to further dilations. The patient was unable to maintain any oral intake and required percutaneous gastrostomy placement.

Conclusions

Involvement of the pharyngo-esophageal segment is an underreported cause of severe dysphagia in patients with systemic sclerosis. Early recognition is necessary to prevent complete stenosis.
Expression of CD74 in Invasive Breast Carcinoma: Its Relation to Nottingham Prognostic Index, Hormone Receptors, and HER2 Immunoprofile
Authors: Hasby Eiman Adel , Khalifa Rana Adel
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To study the immunohistochemical expression of CD74 in series of invasive breast carcinomas classified according to their estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) immunoprofile and explore its correlation to Nottingham Prognostic Index (NPI) and tumor pathologic stage to determine if it has a prognostic value.

Methods

A total of 160 cases of mammary carcinoma were classified broadly according to their ER, PR, and HER2 expression into luminal, HER2-positive, and triple-negative groups. The NPI was calculated and pathologic stage was recorded for each individual case and cases were classified into different prognostic groups. The CD74 expression was evaluated immunohistochemically and correlated to different prognostic variables.

Results

The CD74 immunohistochemical expression in invasive breast carcinoma was significantly higher in triple-negative tumors, higher tumor grades, presence of lymph nodal metastasis, higher tumor stages, and higher NPI scores.

Conclusions

The CD74 might be a useful prognostic indicator predicting poor outcome of patients with breast carcinoma. Its consistent expression in triple-negative breast carcinomas points to the need of further studies to test the possibility if it can be targeted in treatment of breast carcinoma, especially in such groups.
Evaluation of PADUA Score as Predictor of Warm Ischemia Time (WIT) during Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy (LPN)
Authors: Ricciardulli Stefano , Ding Qiang , Zhang Xu , Li Hongzhao , Wang Baojun , Yang Guoqiang , Wang Xiyou , Zhang Peng , Ma Xin , Breda Alberto
Published: November 2016

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of Preoperative Aspects and Dimension Used for an Anatomical (PADUA) classification in the prediction of Warm Ischemia Time (WIT) during Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy (LPN).

Methods

Single centre retrospective study on 402 patients who underwent LPN between January 2011 and October 2013. WIT was correlated with each characteristics of the PADUA classification. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used to evaluated the independent predictive risk factors of WIT >20 minutes.

Results

The median WIT was 19.8 minutes (IQR 15-25). The PADUA risk groups (High vs Low: OR: 2.804; 95% CI 1.155-6.806; p-value <0.001; Intermediate vs Low: OR 0.971; 95% CI 0.185-5.092 p-value <0.001) and PADUA score as continuous variable (OR: 1.512; 95% CI 1.043-2.194; p-value <0.001) were the best independent risk factors of WIT >20 minutes. Another important factor related with WIT >20 minutes was a CKD stage 3 (p-value: 0.047; OR: 0.528; 95% CI:0.282-0.990).

Conclusions

This study reveal that tumor’ anatomical aspects may influence the WIT. The use of the nephrometry scoring systems should to be use by the surgeon in the planning of nephron sparing surgery (NSS) and should be considered for its inclusion in international guidelines.
The Effect of Land Use Changes on Desertification Hazard (Case Study: Maraveh Tappeh Region of Golestan Province, Iran)
Authors: Farajollahi Asghar , Asgari Hamid Reza , Ownagh Majid , Mahboubi Mohammad Reza , Salman Mahini Abdolrasoul
Published: November 2016

Land degradation and desertification caused by land use change is mainly due to human activities in arid and semi-arid and affect on the sustainable use of lands. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of land use changes on the desertification hazard in Maraveh Tappeh region. In this research, land use maps of 1986, 2000 and 2014 is provided using images of MSS, ETM and OLI sensors of Landsat satellite and land use map of 2024 is predicted using Markov chain model. According to the results, dense forest area is decreased during study period and with passing time, the area of agricultural land has increased. The results for the time interval of 2014-2028, showed it is possible that will be decreased semi-dense forest and dense rangelands and will be increased other land-use areas according to results of model predictions. In the study years, desertification maps were prepared using ESAs method and with the assumption of fixed all factors other than land use factor. The results showed that there was a lack of desertification as a class in 1986, but this class has been removed in other study years and has been added the area of this class into other classes. The compare of desertification hazard classes and theirs percentage of area in studied time periods showed that critical (C3) and fragile (F3) classes had increasing trend, clearly. The difference between classes since 1986 to 2000 is clearer and more specific and destruction seem clearer.
Who gets hooked on Facebook? An exploratory typology of problematic Facebook users
Authors: Ryan Tracii , Reece John , Chester Andrea , Xenos Sophia
Published: November 2016

Scholars have suggested that there are multiple pathways to problematic Facebook use, and each are linked to the types of activities that users engage in. However, these concepts have yet to be empirically explored. The present paper addresses this gap in the literature by presenting a pilot study based on a sample of 59 (50 females, 9 males) problematic Facebook users. Closed and open-ended data were collected using an online survey. Cluster analysis was then used to identify three types of problematic Facebook users: those with high engagement in social activities and browsing, those with low engagement in social activities but high engagement in browsing, and those with low engagement in both social activities and browsing, but moderate engagement in gaming. This paper presents an in depth discussion of the patterns of behavior identified within these clusters. In addition, four potential pathways to problematic Facebook use are proposed: online social enhancement, social monitoring, procrastination, and entertainment. This study contributes to the development of a much-needed theoretical framework of problematic Facebook use, and provides direction for future research.
Dysfunctional impulsivity in online gaming addiction and engagement
Authors: Blinka Lukas , Škařupová Kateřina , Mitterova Kristina
Published: November 2016

Impulsivity has been shown to be related to both substance- and non-substance addictions. In the case of internet gaming addiction, on one hand, higher impulsivity and sensation seeking have been reported in problematic online gamers. On the other hand, problematic online gamers were also identified as introverted, socially anxious, and generally inhibited in behaviour. Our study investigates the role of dysfunctional impulsivity in gaming addiction. A sample of 1,510 Czech and Slovak online gamers completed a questionnaire that was advertised online and targeted the core of the gaming community. Internet gaming addiction was measured using the Addiction-Engagement Questionnaire (Charlton & Danforth, 2010). Dysfunctional impulsivity was measured using the 11 items of Dickman’s (1990) sub-scale of the Impulsivity Inventory. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated for variables and a regression model was constructed using hierarchical linear regression to determine the association between online gaming addiction and dysfunctional impulsivity, while controlling for age, gender, and the frequency of online gaming. A set of chi-square tests was employed to compare the patterns of addiction criteria among highly impulsive addicted gamers and non-impulsive addicted gamers. Although dysfunctional impulsivity was a good predictor of gaming addiction (β = .252), it actually explained only about 7% of the addiction variance. Problematic gamers high on impulsivity had similar patterns of addiction criteria as non-impulsive gamers, with only one exception – they had a significantly higher tendency to relapse. There was no role of impulsivity in gaming engagement. The results suggest that dysfunctional impulsivity is a risk factor for online gaming addiction (similar to other addictions), but it does not have prominent explanatory value in itself. Also, the results show that problematic gamers high on impulsivity are more prone to relapse and reinstatement.
Control System for Less than Wind Turbines 1500W
Authors: Icaza D. , Pauta A. , Saguay G. , Solis F.
Published: November 2016

Using wind power generation is another alternative for remote homes, where there is no electricity grid. Especially in Ecuador there are several places where the wind resource is really stable for the year, though at times the wind regime it becomes turbulent wind speeds become quite high exceeding 12 m / s affecting the wind turbine components.Generally in the Ecuadorian highlands are available permanent winds of medium intensity capable of generating electricity, but by having a system of turbulence for short periods of time it jeopardizes the deployed equipment and therefore the investments made by what this study guarantees the stability of small wind turbines that are very useful in our environment to generate electricity in field type housing shelters.
Factors influencing the attitude of equestrians towards sport horse welfare
Authors: Ikinger C , Spiller A , Kayser M
Published: November 2016

Until now, only a limited amount of research has been carried out on addressing attitudes towards sport horse welfare (AHW). In order to contribute to filling this gap, the goals of this study were two-fold: the investigation of the influence of different demographic factors and factors related to equestrianism on the AHW and the demonstration of the applicability of Partial Least Squares Equation Modelling (PLS) in this field of research. An online survey was conducted among 2,947 equestrians. A research model was established based on eleven factors, which were investigated for their potential influence on the AHW and their relationships to each other. This model was analysed by means of PLS which, to the best of our knowledge, has not been used before to investigate human attitudes towards horses (Equus caballus). The results show that the factors with the highest impacts on the AHW were the affection for animals, the attitude towards classically organised equestrianism and the utility orientation. Gender, income, agricultural background, tradition, brand orientation and the importance of breed and pedigree were also found to exert a significant influence on the AHW. In contrast, age and involvement in horse-riding as a hobby were found to have no effect on the AHW. Furthermore, several significant relationships could be identified among the different factors. In conclusion, the present study provides an insight into the factors influencing the complex AHW and demonstrates the applicability of the PLS for research in this field.
Attitudes of beef producers to disbudding and perception of pain in cattle
Authors: Wikman I , Hokkanen A-H , Pastell M , Kauppinen T , Valros A , Hänninen L
Published: November 2016

Pain is an indicator of welfare status in livestock, and attitudes play a key role in the assessment and treatment of pain in animals. Veterinarians’ and dairy producers’ perceptions of cattle pain are affected by gender, age and work experience. The aim of this paper was to study beef producers’ attitudes regarding disbudding as well as the painfulness of certain cattle diseases. A questionnaire was sent out to 1,000 Finnish beef producers and the response rate was 44%, representing 19% of all Finnish beef producers. Producers graded their attitudes on a five-point Likert scale and perception about pain on an eleven-point numerical scale. Factor analysis was used and four factors were established. These factors described producers’ assessment of disbudding-related pain, their sensitivity to pain in cattle, their willingness to self-medicate disbudded calves and their perceived importance of horns. Factor scores were tested for differences between genders and the use of disbudding on farms with Mann WhitneyU-tests. Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to assess differences among producers’ age, work experience and herd size. Female beef producers assessed animal pain higher than male beef producers. Older and more experienced beef producers showed more positive attitudes towards cattle with horns than younger or less-experienced ones. Older beef producers were more sensitive to cattle pain than younger producers and beef producers with a smaller herd size took disbudding pain more seriously and were more sensitive to cattle pain than the producers with larger herds. Producers who did not use disbudding valued horns more than producers using disbudding.
De la marginalité à la vulnérabilité
Authors: Zwick Monney Martine , Grimard Carolyne
Published: November 2016

Pauvreté, marginalité, vulnérabilité… Les changements de vocabulaire pour saisir les enjeux de la cohésion sociale ne sont pas anodins. Ils reflètent les représentations et les compréhensions de l’intégration de et à la société. Nous souhaitons alors présenter l’évolution de ces concepts jusqu’à la nouvelle piste théorique de la vulnérabilité en mettant en évidence les apports de cette dernière. Par ailleurs, ces changements de vocabulaire sont également à mettre en lien avec l’évolution du travail social. Si les mots changent, c’est également le cas des pratiques. Comment évoluent nos manières de définir et d’aider les individus en mal d’intégration? Comment se répercutent ces transformations de vocabulaire sur le travail social?
La construction dialectique de la normalité
Authors: Mayol Séverine
Published: November 2016

À partir d’un terrain sociologique réalisé en France entre 2007 et 2012, cet article propose de réfléchir aux changements perceptibles des finalités de l’intervention sociale auprès des personnes sans domicile, au prisme du genre. Les différentes crises que traverse la société française conduisent les professionnels du social à repenser leurs pratiques et à redéfinir leurs objectifs afin de ne pas remettre en cause le sens social de leur profession. L’article démontre alors que ce travail de réélaboration se fait en jonglant entre normes traditionnelles de genre, pensées comme qualifiantes, et normes contemporaines de genre, issues du vécu des acteurs.
Regards d’adolescentes
Authors: Beaudry Isabelle , Devault Annie
Published: November 2016

Partager son quotidien avec un parent aux prises avec un trouble de personnalité limite (TPL) n'est pas sans conséquences. Cet article porte sur les résultats d'une étude qualitative effectuée auprès de six adolescentes qui racontent leur expérience de vie auprès de leur mère qui présente ce diagnostic. Elle révèle que, souvent contraintes à exercer un rôle parental alors qu’elles sont encore très jeunes, ces jeunes filles ont toutes, à divers degrés, été victimes de maltraitance. La discussion de l’article met l’accent sur l'importance d'offrir à ces enfants une intervention adaptée à leur réalité et à leurs besoins.
A Method for Software Requirement Volatility Analysis Using QFD
Authors: Anang Yunarso , Takahashi Masakazu , Watanabe Yoshimichi
Published: November 2016

Changes of software requirements are inevitable during the development life cycle. Rather than avoiding the circumstance, it is easier to just accept it and find a way to anticipate those changes. This paper proposes a method to analyze the volatility of requirement by using the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) method and the introduced degree of volatility. Customer requirements are deployed to software functions and subsequently to architectural design elements. And then, after determining the potential for changes of the design elements, the degree of volatility of the software requirements is calculated. In this paper the method is described using a flow diagram and illustrated using a simple example, and is evaluated using a case study.
The Formalization of the Business Process Modeling Goals
Authors: Bušinska Ligita , Kirikova Mārīte
Published: November 2016

In business process modeling the de facto standard BPMN has emerged. However, the applications of this notation have many subsets of elements and various extensions. Also, BPMN still coincides with many other modeling languages, forming a large set of available options for business process modeling languages and dialects. While, in general, the goal of modelers is a central notion in the choice of modeling languages and notations, in most researches that propose guidelines, techniques, and methods for business process modeling language evaluation and/or selection, the business process modeling goal is not formalized and not transparently taken into account. To overcome this gap, and to explicate and help to handle business process modeling complexity, the approach to formalize the business process modeling goal, and the supporting three dimensional business process modeling framework, are proposed.
Measuring Complexity of SAP Systems
Authors: Holub Ilja , Bruckner Tomas
Published: November 2016

The paper discusses the reasons of complexity rise in ERP system SAP R/3. It proposes a method for measuring complexity of SAP. Based on this method, the computer program in ABAP for measuring complexity of particular SAP implementation is proposed as a tool for keeping ERP complexity under control. The main principle of the measurement method is counting the number of items or relations in the system. The proposed computer program is based on counting of records in organization tables in SAP.
Employing Ontology-Alignment and Locality-Sensitive Hashing to Improve Attribute Interoperability in Federated eID Systems
Authors: Filho Walter , Ribeiro Carlos , Zefferer Thomas
Published: November 2016

Achieving interoperability, i.e. creating identity federations between different Electronic identities (eID) systems, has gained relevance throughout the past years. A serious problem of identity federations is the missing harmonization between various attribute providers (APs). In closed eID systems, ontologies allow a higher degree of automation in the process of aligning and aggregating attributes from different APs. This approach does not work for identity federations, as each eID system uses its own ontology to represent its attributes. Furthermore, providing attributes to intermediate entities required to align and aggregate attributes potentially violates privacy rules. To tackle these problems, we propose the use of combined ontology-alignment (OA) approaches and locality-sensitive hashing (LSH) functions. We assess existing implementations of these concepts defining and using criteria that are special for identity federations. Obtained results confirm that proper implementations of these concepts exist and that they can be used to achieve interoperability between eID systems on attribute level. A prototype is implemented showing that combining the two assessment winners (AlignAPI for ontology-alignment and Nilsimsa for LSH functions) achieves interoperability between eID systems. In addition, the improvement obtained in the alignment process by combining the two assessment winners does not impact negatively the privacy of the user’s data, since no clear-text data is exchanged in the alignment process.
Land dominates the regional response to CO2 direct radiative forcing
Authors: Shaw Tiffany A. , Voigt Aiko
Published: November 2016

In Atmospheric General Circulation Models (AGCMs) direct radiative forcing (increased CO2 with fixed sea surface temperature) is an imperfect concept because land temperatures are not fixed. Here the response to direct radiative forcing is decomposed into increased CO2 over ocean and land using an AGCM with spatially dependent CO2. The land versus ocean response is mostly linear. Consistent with previous work, ocean direct radiative forcing decreases ocean‐averaged outgoing longwave radiation, precipitation, and tropical circulation intensity; however, it cannot explain the regional response to direct radiative forcing. Increased CO2 over land dominates the regional response via energy input over land, e.g., over deserts where there is no cloud and water vapor masking and a Rossby wave teleconnection. This mechanism operates across a range of climate perturbations, including decreased CO2. Previous AGCM decompositions involving direct radiative forcing and indirect sea surface temperature warming must be reinterpreted to include the importance of increased CO2 over land.
Application of an Integrated Good Lives Approach to Sexual Offending Treatment
Authors: Willis Gwenda M. , Prescott David S. , Yates Pamela M.
Published: November 2016

The Good Lives Model (GLM) is a strengths‐based theory of offender rehabilitation that has been integrated with the Risk–Need–Responsivity principles and the Self‐Regulation Model – Revised. This chapter describes treatment implications of an integrated good lives approach to sexual offending treatment, with a focus on how the GLM augments traditional risk‐focused approaches. Assessment and intervention planning represent the foundations of effective treatment and are described in some detail, followed by an overview of core treatment components. The GLM offers clinicians an inherently motivating and engaging framework for working with individuals who have sexually offended to reduce their risk of future offending, and to assist them to live better, more fulfilling, lives.
Photodegradation of Metal Oxide Interlayers in Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Constantinou Iordania , Shewmon Nathan T. , Lo Chi Kin , Deininger James J. , Reynolds John R. , So Franky
Published: November 2016

The effect of 1 sun illumination for 24 h on encapsulated inverted organic photovoltaic devices is studied through a series of electrical and optical characterizations for donor/acceptor polymer solar cells based on poly(dithienogermole‐alt‐thienopyrrolodione)/[6,6]‐phenyl C71 butyric acid methyl ester blends. Power conversion efficiency is significantly reduced after light exposure due to a 45% drop in the device fill factor and a 40% drop in both the open circuit voltage and short circuit current. The decrease in open circuit voltage is attributed to a reduction in the built‐in field in the device due to photodegradation of the ZnO interlayer. The reduction in fill factor and short circuit current is shown to be due to the formation of an extraction barrier for hole collection as a result of photodegradation of the MoOx interlayer. Using a 400 nm long pass filter to block the UV light, device stability is significantly enhanced, resulting in a decrease in power conversion efficiency of less than 5% under the same operation conditions.
Chromosome therapy: Potential strategies for the correction of severe chromosome aberrations
Authors: Plona Kathleen , Kim Taehyun , Halloran Katherine , Wynshaw‐Boris Anthony
Published: November 2016

Large chromosomal aberrations occur commonly during development, resulting in complex and multisystem diseases. In spite of this high frequency, there are currently no means for correcting these disorders due to their complexity and involvement of multiple genes. Recently, several new approaches have been devised that target whole chromosomes in vitro, which are collectively referred to as “Chromosome Therapies.” These include silencing and selection for loss of the extra chromosome in trisomies, promotion of euploidy in an aneuploid culture, and forced loss and replacement of a chromosome. Here, we provide a review of Chromosome Therapy, and discuss potential directions for these methods clinically, as well as research applications and cellular models that can be made using these technologies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of genetic disorders—A vision coming into focus
Authors: Bird Lynne M. , Tan Wen‐Hann
Published: November 2016

This issue of the Seminar Series is devoted to reviewing the state‐of‐the‐art for treatment of non‐metabolic genetic disorders. We begin with a primer on the design of studies in rare diseases. We then review a broad spectrum of disorders to reflect many different genetic mechanisms, including disorders stemming from a chromosomal basis as well as those due to single gene aberrations; those demonstrating principles of imprinting and mosaicism; and single organ as well as multisystem disorders. In doing so, a wide variety of treatment approaches are explained in this issue, including cell therapy, chromosome therapy, gene therapy, strategies for gene regulation with exon skipping and anti‐sense oligonucleotides, stem cell modification and reintroduction, and use of genetic editing tools. The number of disorders amenable to treatment with existing methods is expanding rapidly, and is sure to increase as new strategies and tools emerge. The field of clinical genetics will be instrumental in ushering these new technologies into the realm of patient care. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Esterification of Aliphatic Amides
Authors: Hie Liana , Baker Emma L. , Anthony Sarah M. , Desrosiers Jean‐Nicolas , Senanayake Chris , Garg Neil K.
Published: November 2016

Recent studies have demonstrated that amides can be used in nickel‐catalyzed reactions that lead to cleavage of the amide C−N bond, with formation of a C−C or C−heteroatom bond. However, the general scope of these methodologies has been restricted to amides where the carbonyl is directly attached to an arene or heteroarene. We now report the nickel‐catalyzed esterification of amides derived from aliphatic carboxylic acids. The transformation requires only a slight excess of the alcohol nucleophile and is tolerant of heterocycles, substrates with epimerizable stereocenters, and sterically congested coupling partners. Moreover, a series of amide competition experiments establish selectivity principles that will aid future synthetic design. These studies overcome a critical limitation of current Ni‐catalyzed amide couplings and are expected to further stimulate the use of amides as synthetic building blocks in C−N bond cleavage processes.
Photoredox Activation of SF6 for Fluorination
Authors: McTeague T. Andrew , Jamison Timothy F.
Published: November 2016

We report the first practical use of SF6 as a fluorinating reagent in organic synthesis. Photoredox catalysis enables the in situ conversion of SF6, an inert gas, into an active fluorinating species by using visible light. Under these conditions, deoxyfluorination of allylic alcohols is effected with high chemoselectivity and is tolerant of a wide range of functional groups. Application of the methodology in a continuous‐flow setup achieves comparable yields to those obtained with a batch setup, while providing drastically increased material throughput of valuable allylic fluoride products.
Consumer knowledge, preference, and perceived quality of dried tomato products in Ghana
Authors: Owureku‐Asare Mavis , Ambrose R. P. Kingsly , Oduro Ibok , Tortoe Charles , Saalia Firibu K.
Published: November 2016

Postharvest losses (PHL) are incurred in the tomato value chain in Ghana and solar drying of tomato is a promising technology for reducing the loss. However, there are concerns on the usage, functionality and sensory appeal of the dried products to consumers, compounded with the lack of information and research on dried tomato processing in Ghana. A survey was carried out by administering semistructured questionnaires to 395 randomly selected and willing respondents in the Accra Metropolis. Information was obtained on the socioeconomic profile, consumption pattern, knowledge, and acceptance of tomato processing technologies and assessment of quality attributes important to consumers. Most consumers (74%) preferred tomato powder that is conveniently packaged to retain the characteristic intense taste and the flavor using Friedman's rank mean procedure. The study indicated that consumers were more concerned about good manufacturing practices during the production of solar‐dried tomato (48.8%) rather than the quality attributes (8.6%). These findings indicate the need for safe solar drying procedures in order to increase consumer acceptability of solar‐dried tomato products in Ghana.
Outcomes of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma are determined in multidisciplinary team meetings
Authors: Charriere Bérénice , Muscari Fabrice , Maulat Charlotte , Bournet Barbara , Bonnet Delphine , Bureau Christophe , Otal Philippe , Peron Jean‐Marie , Suc Bertrand
Published: November 2016

Background and Objectives

To analyze overall survival (OS) rates for the three curative treatments of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on an intention‐to‐treat (ITT) basis.

Methods

Cohort study based on data from a multidisciplinary team meeting (MDT) dedicated to HCC. From 2006 to 2013, we included every patient with newly diagnosed HCC, for whom curative treatment (liver transplantation (LT), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), surgical resection (SR)) was decided upon.

Results

We included 387 consecutive patients. LT was decided in 136 cases, RFA in 131 cases, SR in 120 cases. Sixty‐six percent of patients received the planned treatment. Five‐year OS on an ITT basis were: 35% for the LT‐group, 32% for the RFA‐group, 34% for the SR‐group (P = 0.77). In multivariate analyses, the main negative prognostic factors were not following the MDT decision (HR: 0.39, CI95% [0.27–0.54], P < 0.001), elevated alpha‐fetoprotein level (HR: 0.63, CI95% [0.45–0.87], P = 0.005), being outside the Milan criteria (HR: 0.45, CI95% [0.31–0.65], P < 0.001). When curative treatment was performed, per‐protocol 5‐year OS were 64% for LT, 34% for RFA, 40% for SR.

Conclusion

On an ITT basis, OS was similar whatever the type of curative treatment chosen in MDT. Negative prognostic factors were not following the MDT decision, elevated alpha‐fetoprotein, being outside the Milan criteria. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:330–336. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinetic Effects on Self‐Assembly and Function of Protein–Polymer Bioconjugates in Thin Films Prepared by Flow Coating
Authors: Chang Dongsook , Huang Aaron , Olsen Bradley D.
Published: November 2016

The self‐assembly of nanostructured globular protein arrays in thin films is demonstrated using protein–polymer block copolymers based on a model protein mCherry and the polymer poly(oligoethylene glycol acrylate) (POEGA). Conjugates are flow coated into thin films on a poly(ethylene oxide) grafted Si surface, forming self‐assembled cylindrical nanostructures with POEGA domains selectively segregating to the air–film interface. Long‐range order and preferential arrangement of parallel cylinders templated by selective surfaces are demonstrated by controlling relative humidity. Long‐range order increases with coating speed when the film thicknesses are kept constant, due to reduced nucleation per unit area of drying film. Fluorescence emission spectra of mCherry in films prepared at <25% relative humidity shows a small shift suggesting that proteins are more perturbed at low humidity than high humidity or the solution state.

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Endoplasmic reticulum stress contributes to ferritin molecules‐mediated macrophage migration via P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand‐1
Authors: Wang Chi‐Mei , Chen Yue‐Hwa , Lee Yu‐Chieh , Chang Jung‐Su
Published: November 2016

Scope

Obesity is associated with elevated serum ferritin and increased macrophage activation and infiltration; however, the causal mechanisms underlying this relationship remain undefined.

Methods and results

Serum ferritin and soluble P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand (sPSGL)‐1 level were higher in obese adolescents and patients with moderate nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) compared with controls (all p < 0.05). Multivariate linear regression revealed that serum ferritin was independently associated with sPSGL‐1 (B = 0.249, 95% confidence interval: 0.011–0.487, p = 0.041) after adjustment for covariates. The messenger (m) RNA expression of GRP78/Bip, ferritin, and PSGL‐1 in leukocytes was greater in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease than in controls. An animal study showed that a tunicamycin injection (an endoplasmic reticulum stress inducer) triggered serum sPSGL‐1 and ferritin elevation (all p < 0.01). An in vitro study revealed that serum ferritin and apoferritin induced tumor necrosis factor‐α and sPSGL‐1 secretion (all p < 0.01). A wound healing assay showed that PSGL‐1 blocking inhibited apoferritin‐mediated macrophage migration. GRP78/Bip knockdown by the endotoxin EGF‐SubA completely inhibited apoferritin‐mediated macrophage migration and PSGL‐1 expression at the protein and mRNA levels (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

ER stress associated mechanisms are required for apoferritin‐/ferritin‐mediated macrophage migration via the PSGL‐1‐dependent pathway.
Dietary fibers and associated phytochemicals in cereals
Authors: Bach Knudsen Knud Erik , Nørskov Natalja P. , Bolvig Anne Katrine , Hedemann Mette Skou , Lærke Helle Nygaard
Published: November 2016

Epidemiological studies have linked whole‐grain (WG) cereal consumption to a reduced risk of developing several chronic diseases—coronary heart disease, arteriosclerosis, type‐2 diabetes, and some form of cancers. The underlying physiological mechanisms behind the protective effects of WG are unclear, but can most likely be assigned to a concerted action of dietary fiber (DF) and a wide variety of phytochemicals. Physiologically, it is important that soluble nonstarch polysaccharides contribute to higher viscosity in the small intestine as this may influence rate and extent of digestion and absorption. Associated with the DF matrix of cereals is an array of nonnutritive constituents predominantly concentrated in the bran fraction. Among them, the phenolic phytochemicals, benzoic acid and cinnamic derivatives and lignans, are of importance in a nutritional‐health perspective. Only a small fraction of the phenolics is absorbed in the small intestine, but the availability can be increased by bioprocessing. The major part, however, is passed to the large intestine where the microbiota, which degrade and metabolize DF to SCFAs and gases, also convert the phenolic compounds into a range of other metabolites that are absorbed into the body and with the capability of influencing the metabolism at the cellular level.
Individual pharmacokinetic variation leads to underdosing of ciprofloxacin in some cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Schultz A.N.Ø. , Høiby N. , Nielsen X.C. , Pressler T. , Dalhoff K. , Duno M. , Buchard A. , Johansen H.K. , Wang H. , Dalbøge C.S.
Published: November 2016

Background: Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is frequently used when treating cystic fibrose (CF) patients with intermittent Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) lung colonization. However, approximately 20% of the patients progress to chronic infection despite early intervention. The aim of this study, was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of CIP, to evaluate if CYP3A4‐related metabolism is involved and to find the optimal dose needed to eradicate intermittently colonizing bacteria in the lungs of CF patients. Methods An open‐label, prospective pharmacokinetic study was performed. Twenty‐two adult CF‐patients were each given 500 mg CIP orally. One blood sample was taken at t = 0, and the following 12 hr, nine blood samples were collected. The optimal dose and interval was then calculated by Monte Carlo simulation. CYP3A4‐activity was mesured using the Erythromycin Breath Test (ERMBT). Results A 14‐fold variation in AUC for the 500 mg CIP (median 473.5 µg/ml × min), and a 30‐fold variation in Cmax for CIP (median 2 µg/ml) was found. For CYP3A4‐activity the variation was 8‐fold. No correlation was found between the CYP3A4‐activity and CIP‐concentrations. The probability of eradicating intermittent P. aeruginosa colonization in the lungs of CF patients was found to be 57% (3 doses/day), when 500 mg CIP was given. It was calculated to be 89% (2 doses/day) and 94% (3 doses/day), respectivly if 750 mg CIP had been given. Conclusion A large pharmacokinetic difference of CIP in CF patiens was found, not explained by CYP3A4 variation. CIP should be given at 750 mg two or three times daily to adult CF patients with intermittently colonization. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:319–323. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phosphorus incorporation in single‐walled carbon nanotubes produced by low‐pressure CVD
Authors: Mendoza C. D. , Freire F. L. , Larrude D. G. , Maia da Costa M. E. H.
Published: November 2016

The aim of this work is the synthesis and characterization of single‐walled carbon nanotubes with phosphorus incorporated. Two temperatures (800 and 850 °C) were used to produce the nanotubes in a low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition system using as precursor the solid substance triphenylphosphine without any dilution in liquid. Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the samples. Raman spectroscopy were employed to show the signature of single‐walled carbon nanotubes and a shift in Raman bands was observed due to the presence of phosphorus in the structure comparing with a reference pristine sample. The shift was attributed to changes in the electronic properties of the material due to doping by phosphorus atoms. XPS spectra confirm the presence of phosphorus bonded to carbons atoms, suggesting the phosphorus incorporation in carbon nanotube structure.
Diiron Complexes [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐pdt/Mebdt)(L)] Containing a Chelating Diphosphine Ligand L=(Oxydi‐2,1‐phenylene)bis(diphenylphosphine): Bioinspired [FeFe] Hydrogenase Model Complexes
Authors: Pandey Indresh Kumar , Natarajan Mookan , Hemlata  , Hussain Firasat , Kaur‐Ghumaan Sandeep
Published: November 2016

Diiron carbonyl complexes [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐pdt)(κ1‐L)] 1 and [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐Mebdt)(κ1‐L)] 3 were obtained in moderate yields from the parent complexes [Fe2(CO)6(μ‐pdt)] and [Fe2(CO)6(μ‐Mebdt)] and the chelating diphosphine ligand, L=(Oxydi‐2, 1‐phenylene)bis(diphenylphosphine). In addition, complexes [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐pdt)(κ1‐LO)] 2 and [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐Mebdt)(κ1‐LO)] 4 containing oxidized phosphine (P=O) were obtained as side products of the reaction. In all the four complexes only one phosphorus site of the diphosphine ligand was found to coordinate to the metal center. X‐ray crystal structures have been reported for complexes 1, 3 and 4. Complexes 1, 3 and 4 were investigated for electrocatalytic proton reduction in the presence of acetic and trifluoroacetic acid. Complexes 3 and 4 showed higher acid‐induced currents than 1 when investigated with both the acids. The over potentials for the three complexes were however, on the higher side. Moreover, complex [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐Mebdt)(κ1‐LO)] 4 with oxidized phosphine was catalytically more efficienct than [Fe2(CO)5(μ‐Mebdt)(κ1‐L)] 3 without oxidized phosphine.
Mesh Removal and Selective Neurectomy for Persistent Groin Pain Following Lichtenstein Repair
Authors: Zwaans Willem A. R. , Perquin Christel W. , Loos Maarten J. A. , Roumen Rudi M. H. , Scheltinga Marc R. M.
Published: November 2016

Background

Some patients with persistent inguinodynia following a Lichtenstein hernia repair fail all non‐surgical treatments. Characteristics of mesh‐related pain are not well described whereas a meshectomy is controversial. Aims were to define mesh‐related pain symptoms, to investigate long‐term effects of a meshectomy and to provide recommendations on meshectomy.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing open meshectomy with/without selective neurectomy for chronic inguinodynia following Lichtenstein repair were analysed including a follow‐up questionnaire. Outcome measures were complications, satisfaction (excellent, good, moderate, poor) and hernia recurrence rate. Recommendations for meshectomy are proposed based on a literature review.

Results

Seventy‐four patients (67 males, median age 56 years) underwent mesh removal (exclusively mesh, 26%; combined with tailored neurectomy, 74%) between June 2006 and March 2015 in a single centre. Complications were intraoperatively recognized small bowel injury (n = 1) and testicular atrophy (n = 2). A 64% excellent/good long‐term result was attained (median 18 months). Success rates of a meshectomy (63%) or combined with a neurectomy (64%) were similar. Five hernia recurrences occurred during follow‐up (7%). A patient with a pure mesh‐related groin pain characteristically reports a ‘foreign body feeling’. Pain intensifies during hip flexion (car driving) and is attenuated following hip extension or supine position. Palpation is painful along the inguinal ligament whereas neuropathic characteristics (hyperpathic skin, trigger points) are lacking.

Conclusions

Mesh removal either or not combined with tailored neurectomy is beneficial in two of three patients with characteristics of mesh‐related inguinodynia following Lichtenstein hernia repair who are refractory to alternative pain treatments.
Association between cardiometabolic index and erectile dysfunction: A new index for predicting cardiovascular disease
Authors: Dursun Murat , Besiroglu Huseyin , Otunctemur Alper , Ozbek Emin
Published: November 2016

Over the past decade, it has been suggested that erectile dysfunction (ED) is an early indicator of cardiovascular disease. In a recent study, a new index, termed as cardiometabolic index (CMI), was defined and measured as the product of triglyceride (TG)/high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) ratio and waist‐to‐height ratio, which are good predictors of coronary artery disease and main components of metabolic syndrome (MetS). All components of the CMI are also included in MetS criteria. Thus, we decided to evaluate the correlation between CMI, including the criteria of MetS, and ED. A total of 95 men with ED (ED group) and 82 healthy men (control group) were included in the study. Sexual functions were evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function‐5 items scale. CMI was measured as the product of waist‐to‐height ratio and TG/HDL‐C ratio. Mean CMI level was 2.33 ± 0.11 in the study group and 1.14 ± 0.076 in the control group. CMI levels were significantly higher in the ED group (p < 0.001). Because of the simplicity of measuring waist circumference, height measurement, and TG and HDL levels, CMI is an easily applicable index for evaluating cardiovascular dysfunction. ED is thought to be a precursor sign for vascular disease and a potential marker for atherosclerosis, endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. In this context, CMI can be a useful index for the evaluation and calculation of ED risk, which was used for evaluation of cardiometabolic risk.