bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful discontinuation of eltrombopag after complete remission in patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: González‐López Tomás José , Pascual Cristina , Álvarez‐Román María Teresa , Fernández‐Fuertes Fernando , Sánchez‐González Blanca , Caparrós Isabel , Jarque Isidro , Mingot‐Castellano María Eva , Hernández‐Rivas José Angel , Martín‐Salces Mónica , Solán Laura , Beneit Paola , Jiménez Reyes , Bernat Silvia , Andrade Marcio M. , Cortés Montserrat , Cortti Maria José , Pérez‐Crespo Susana , Gómez‐Núñez Marta , Olivera Pavel E. , Pérez‐Rus Gloria , Martínez‐Robles Violeta , Alonso Rafael , Fernández‐Rodríguez Angeles , Arratibel María Carmen , Perera María , Fernández‐Miñano Carmen , Fuertes‐Palacio Miguel Angel , Vázquez‐Paganini Juan Andrés , Gutierrez‐Jomarrón Isabel , Valcarce Inés , de Cabo Erik , Sainz Adriana , Fisac Rosa , Aguilar Carlos , Paz Martínez‐Badas María , Peñarrubia María Jesús , Calbacho María , de Cos Carmen , González‐Silva Manuel , Coria Erika , Alonso Arancha , Casaus Alberto , Luaña Armando , Galán Pilar , Fernández‐Canal Cristina , Garcia‐Frade Javier , González‐Porras José Ramón
Published: November 2014

Eltrombopag is effective and safe in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Some patients may sustain their platelet response when treatment is withdrawn but the frequency of this phenomenon is unknown. We retrospectively evaluated 260 adult primary ITP patients (165 women and 95 men; median age, 62 years) treated with eltrombopag after a median time from diagnosis of 24 months. Among the 201 patients who achieved a complete remission (platelet count >100 × 109/l), eltrombopag was discontinued in 80 patients. Reasons for eltrombopag discontinuation were: persistent response despite a reduction in dose over time (n = 33), platelet count >400 × 109/l (n = 29), patient's request (n = 5), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (n = 3), diarrhea (n = 3), thrombosis (n = 3), and other reasons (n = 4). Of the 49 evaluable patients, 26 patients showed sustained response after discontinuing eltrombopag without additional ITP therapy, with a median follow‐up of 9 (range, 6–25) months. These patients were characterized by a median time since ITP diagnosis of 46.5 months, with 4/26 having ITP < 1 year. Eleven patients were male and their median age was 59 years. They received a median of 4 previous treatment lines and 42% were splenectomized. No predictive factors of sustained response after eltrombopag withdrawal were identified. Platelet response following eltrombopag cessation may be sustained in an important percentage of adult primary ITP patients who achieved CR with eltrombopag. However, reliable markers for predicting which patients will have this response are needed. Am. J. Hematol. 90:E40–E43, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Traceless Purification and Desulfurization of Tau Protein Ligation Products
Authors: Reimann Oliver , Smet‐Nocca Caroline , Hackenberger Christian P. R.
Published: November 2014

We present a novel strategy for the traceless purification and synthetic modification of peptides and proteins obtained by native chemical ligation. The strategy involves immobilization of a photocleavable semisynthetic biotin–protein conjugate on streptavidin‐coated agarose beads, which eliminates the need for tedious rebuffering steps and allows the rapid removal of excess peptides and additives. On‐bead desulfurization is followed by delivery of the final tag‐free protein product. The strategy is demonstrated in the isolation of a tag‐free Alzheimer's disease related human tau protein from a complex EPL mixture as well as a triphosphorylated peptide derived from the C‐terminus of tau.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed CH Cyanation of Arenes and Heteroarenes
Authors: Li Jie , Ackermann Lutz
Published: November 2014

Carboxylate assistance proved to be the key for the success of efficient cobalt(III)‐catalyzed CH cyanations. Thus, an in situ generated cationic cobalt complex was identified as a versatile catalyst for the site‐selective synthesis of various aromatic and heteroaromatic nitriles with ample substrate scope.
Simultaneous quantification of sildenafil and N‐desmethyl sildenafil in human plasma by UFLC coupled with ESI‐MS/MS and pharmacokinetic and bioequivalence studies in Malay population
Authors: Liew Kai Bin , Loh Gabriel Onn Kit , Tan Yvonne Tze Fung , Peh Kok Khiang
Published: November 2014

A simple, rapid, specific and reliable UFLC coupled with ESI‐MSMS assay method to simultaneously quantify sildenafil and N‐desmethyl sildenafil, with loperamide as internal standard, was developed. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Thermo Scientific Accucore C18 column with an isocratic mobile phase composed of 0.1% v/v formic acid in purified water–methanol (20:80, v/v), at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. Sildenafil, N‐desmethyl sildenafil and loperamide were detected with proton adducts at m/z 475.4 > 58.2, 461.3 > 85.2 and 477.0 > 266.1 in multiple reaction monitoring positive mode, respectively. Both analytes and internal standard were extracted by diethyl ether. The method was validated over a linear concentration range of 10–800 ng/mL for sildenafil and 10–600 ng/mL for N‐desmethyl sildenafil with correlation coefficient (r2) ≥0.9976 for sildenafil and (r2) ≥0.9992 for N‐desmethyl sildenafil. The method was precise, accurate and stable. The proposed method was applied to study the bioequivalence between a 100 mg dose of two pharmaceutical products: Viagra (original) and Edyfil (generic) products. AUC0–t, Cmax and Tmax were 2285.79 ng h/mL, 726.10 ng/mL and 0.94 h for Viagra and 2363.25 ng h/mL, 713.91 ng/mL and 0.83 hour for Edyfil. The 90% confidence interval of these parameters of this study fall within the regulatory range of 80–125%, hence they are considered as bioequivalent. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Learn how to successfully develop, expand athletics program
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2014

— JACK HANK, VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT LIFE & ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, OUR LADY OF THE LAKE UNIVERSITY —
Iron‐Catalyzed Alkenylation of Isochroman Acetals with Simple Alkenes
Authors: Qian Bo , Qiao Cuifang , Xie Yinjun , Huang Hanmin
Published: November 2014

A convenient and efficient iron‐catalyzed nucleophilic addition of simple alkenes to isochroman acetals has been established for the synthesis of 1‐alkenyl isochromans. In the presence of 5–20 mol % iron(III) p‐toluenesulfonate, the alkenyl functionalized isochromans were prepared in moderate to excellent yields. This transformation provides a novel methodology for the synthesis of 1‐alkenyl isochromans from simple alkenes and isochroman acetals.
Enhanced Fill Factor of Tandem Organic Solar Cells Incorporating a Diketopyrrolopyrrole‐Based Low‐Bandgap Polymer and Optimized Interlayer
Authors: Wang Dong Hwan , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko , Park Jong Hyeok
Published: November 2014

We demonstrate that reproducible results can be obtained from tandem solar cells based on the wide‐bandgap poly[N‐9′‐heptadecanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4,7‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole] (PCDTBT) and the diketopyrrolopyrrole (DPP)‐based narrow bandgap polymer (DT‐PDPP2T‐TT) with a decyltetradecyl (DT) and an electron‐rich 2,5‐di‐2‐thienylthieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (2T‐TT) group fabricated using an optimized interlayer (ZnO NPs/ph‐n‐PEDOT:PSS) [NPs: nanoparticles; ph‐n: pH‐neutral PEDOT: poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene); PSS: polystyrene sulfonate]. The tandem cells are fabricated by applying a simple process without thermal annealing. The ZnO NP interlayer operates well when the ZnO NPs are dispersed in 2‐methoxyethanol, as no precipitation and chemical reactions occur. In addition to the ZnO NP film, we used neutral PEDOT:PSS as a second interlayer which is not affect to the sequential deposited bulk heterojunction (BHJ) active layer of acidification. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of a tandem device reaches 7.4 % (open‐circuit voltage VOC=1.53 V, short‐circuit current density JSC=7.3 mA cm−2, and fill factor FF=67 %). Furthermore, FF is increased to up to 71 % when another promising large bandgap (bandgap ∼1.94 eV) polymer (PBnDT‐FTAZ) is used. The surface of each layer with nanoscale morphology (BHJ1/ZnO NPs film/ph‐n‐PEDOT:PSS/BHJ2) was examined by means of AFM analysis during sequential processing. The combination of these factors, efficient DPP‐based narrow bandgap material and optimized interlayer, leads to the high FF (average approaches 70 %) and reproducibly operating tandem BHJ solar cells.
Synthesis of Multifunctional Fe3O4@mSiO2@Au Core–Shell Nanocomposites for pH‐Responsive Drug Delivery
Authors: Cui Liru , Lin Huiming , Yang Chunyu , Han Xiao , Zhang Ting , Qu Fengyu
Published: November 2014

A multifunctional nanocomposite has been successfully prepared for pH‐responsive and magnetic‐targeting drug delivery. First, Fe3O4@mesoporous silic (mSiO2) core–shell nanoparticles were synthesized as the nanocapsules. Doxorubicin hydrochloride was adopted as the model drug; after drug loading, gold nanoparticles (5 nm) were connected to block the mesopore through the hydrazone linkage. The hydrazone bond, a typical acid‐sensitive bond, could undergo hydrolysis in an acidic environment to induce the release of the capping agent, so that the multifunctional nanocomposite revealed acid‐enhanced release performance. What's more, before reaching acid conditions, little premature release was found to take place. Cell experiments were also carried out to reveal the good biocompatibility, fast uptake, and improved toxicity toward HeLa cells. Thus, in association with the magnetic target, the multifunctional nanocomposite shows the potential application for some low‐pH tissue‐targeted therapy, such as for inflammation and tumors.
The Effect of Counterion and Tertiary Amine on the Efficiency of N‐Triazinylammonium Sulfonates in Solution and Solid‐Phase Peptide Synthesis
Authors: Kolesinska Beata , Rozniakowski Kamil K. , Fraczyk Justyna , Relich Inga , Papini Anna Maria , Kaminski Zbigniew J.
Published: November 2014

A collection of N‐triazinylammonium sulfonates, designed according to the concept of “superactive esters”, was obtained by treatment of ammonium sulfonates with 2‐chloro‐4,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3,5‐triazine. The structure of the tertiary amine as well as sulfonate anion influenced their reactivity and stability in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) solution. The reagents were successfully used in solution‐ and solid‐phase synthesis of Z‐, Boc‐, and Fmoc‐protected peptides containing natural and unnatural sterically hindered amino acids as well as in [2+1] fragment condensation approaches, yielding the final products in 80–100 % yield and high optical purity. In manual SPPS of the [Aib]2[Aib]4‐enkephalin analogue and the ACP(65–74) peptide fragment VQAAIDYINEG, several sulfonates yielded peptides significantly faster than TBTU or HATU. Comparative analyses demonstrated that 4‐(4,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2‐yl)‐4‐methylmorpholinium 4‐toluenesulfonate was the most versatile reagent in a wide range of coupling procedures.
Cross-basin comparison of mercury bioaccumulation in Lake Huron lake trout emphasizes ecological characteristics
Authors: Abma Rachel A. , Paterson Gordon , McLeod Anne , Haffner G. Doug
Published: November 2014

Understanding factors influencing mercury (Hg) bioaccumulation in fish is important for examining both ecosystem and human health. However, little is known about how differing ecosystem and biological characteristics can drive Hg bioaccumulation in top predators. The present study compared and contrasted Hg bioaccumulation in multiple age classes of lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) collected from each of Lake Huron's Georgian Bay, North Channel, and Main Basin regions. Mercury concentrations exhibited a basin specific pattern with Main Basin fish having the highest average concentration (0.19 ± 0.01 mg/kg), followed by Georgian Bay (0.15 ± 0.02 mg/kg), and North Channel (0.07 ± <0.01 mg/kg) fish. Age-related increases in Hg concentrations were observed across the 3 basins with North Channel fish exhibiting the slowest rate of Hg bioaccumulation. No significant difference was determined between the relationships describing Hg concentration and age between Main Basin and Georgian Bay fish (p < 0.05). Mercury biomagnification factors (BMF) determined between lake trout and rainbow smelt, lake trout's primary prey, were significantly correlated with fish age and differed across the 3 basins (p < 0.05). Specifically, Georgian Bay fish exhibited the greatest age related increase in Hg BMF followed by Main Basin and North Channel fish, and these differences could not be attributed to trophic level (δ15N) effects or lake trout growth rates. A highly significant negative relationship was determined between Hg BMFs and basin specific prey fish densities indicating that ecological factors associated with food acquisition and foraging efficiencies play an important role in Hg bioaccumulation in feral fish communities. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;9999:1–5. © 2014 SETAC
How Can We Best Think about an Emerging Technology?
Authors: Kaebnick Gregory E. , Gusmano Michael K. , Murray Thomas H.
Published: November 2014

How should we think about synthetic biology—about the potential benefits and risks of these applications as well as the very idea of designed, extensively genetically modi­fied organisms? The lead article in this report sets out our thinking, but the article is rounded out with nine commentaries that sometimes expand on and sometimes argue with our perspective. Jonathan Wolff, a philosopher at the University College of London and a member of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics, and Mark Bedau, a philosopher at Reed College and a participant in several projects aimed at de­veloping artificial cells, discuss the potential consequences of synthetic biology and suggest some reasons for a precau­tionary approach to deliberating about the consequences. Jane Calvert, reader in science, technology, and innovation studies at the University of Edinburgh and a member of the Nuffield Council on Bioethics working party on emerging biotechnologies, recommends, however, that deliberation about the governance of emerging technologies focus less on consequences than on aims and purposes.

Gigi Gronvall, senior associate at the Center for Health Security in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and David Relman, a microbiologist and immunologist at the Stanford School of Medicine, offer contrasting per­spectives about a question we raise concerning “the eth­ics of knowledge”—the values at stake in generating and disseminating potentially dangerous information. Gaymon Bennett offers some ruminations on the questions we raise about how synthetic biology might change the human re­lationship to nature in morally significant ways. He argues, too, that we can think about the ethics of synthetic biology more effectively by getting “upstream” in another way—by sitting next to the bioengineers doing the work and study­ing their “everyday practice” rather than by paying attention only to what is thought and said about their work. Colleen Grogan, professor at the University of Chicago's School of Social Administration and an expert on democratic partici­patory processes in governance, builds on our comments about the challenge of creating a meaningful public dialog about synthetic biology. Jim Thomas, a researcher with the ETC Group, challenges our view of how the public debate about synthetic biology is trending. And Sarah Carter, a policy analyst with the J. Craig Venter Institute, puts our discussion about synthetic biology in the context of debates about other new products and technologies.
Nature Natured and Nature Denatured
Authors: Bennett Gaymon
Published: November 2014

Those who want to observe, analyze, and make judgments about synthetic biology need to think about where to stand in the world so as to get an informed sense of which new capacities and incapacities are actual and which matter. They will need something like “upstream ethics”—but not because they want to “get ahead” of the imagined onslaught of the technology. After all, the imagined capacities may remain entirely overstated. They will need upstream ethics because the question of which new capacities and incapacities are being brought into the world is unlikely to be found at the level of what bioengineers say about the work that they are doing. It is more likely to be found in the everyday spaces of practice in which engineers face the painstaking labor of making living beings that work.

Those who want upstream ethics will also need to observe the relation between talk of synthetic biology and the extra‐technological effects such talk sets into motion—from the mobilization of capital to the activation of new power relations, anxieties, and displacements. It's in this motion that the biotechnical dreams generated by synthetic biology do their primary work. Any democratic deliberation about synthetic biology will need to operate as much on the ethical and political artifacts of these dreams as on any novel organisms synthetic biologists hope to build.
Context, Existing Frameworks, and Practicality: Moving Forward with Synthetic Biology
Authors: Carter Sarah R.
Published: November 2014

Synthetic biology has generated extensive discussion about a wide range of risks and potential benefits, the intrinsic value of the technology, and the soci­etal distribution of its risks and benefits. However, be­fore these questions can be resolved, it is important to first ask a critical question: Is synthetic biology different enough from the technologies that came before it that it raises new questions or concerns? By putting synthetic biology into context, we gain a better understanding of the issues, both old and new, that it raises. We can then consider practical governance questions, including ways to improve current practices.
Do Diversity Reputation Signals Increase Share Value?
Authors: Cook Alison , Glass Christy
Published: November 2014

This analysis contributes to the ongoing scholarly debate regarding the relationship between firms’ efforts to promote diversity and financial performance. Most research contributing to this debate focuses on specific efforts of firms, such as progressive human resource policies and leadership personnel changes, on firm‐level outcomes. Much less research focuses on the impact of reputational signals on performance. However, we argue that reputation signals may provide an even stronger test of the impact of diversity efforts on performance. We analyze the impact of diversity awards, which recognize companies at the forefront of progressive human resource policies, on share value. We use event study methodology to test hypotheses derived from signaling theory to predict investors’ reaction to the announcement of diversity awards. Overall, we find that diversity award recipients are rewarded for these efforts by a significant increase in share price. Our research lends support to the business case for diversity by demonstrating that investors interpret diversity reputation signals as contributing to firms’ financial value. Further implications of these findings for corporate decision makers, policy makers, and scholars are discussed.
Successful treatment of severe rhesus D‐incompatible pregnancy with repeated double‐filtration plasmapheresis
Authors: Kamei Koichi , Yamaguchi Koushi , Sato Mai , Ogura Masao , Ito Shuichi , Okada Tomomi , Wada Seiji , Sago Haruhiko
Published: November 2014

Fetal anemia is caused by Rhesus (RhD) sensitization as a result of RhD incompatibility during pregnancy. The severe form of this disease can cause hydrops fetalis leading to intrauterine death. We experienced a highly sensitized 39‐year‐old woman with B Rh‐negative blood. She had a history of three induced abortions and experienced perinatal death associated with hydrops fetalis. During the pregnancy prior to her most recent one, she was treated with double‐filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP), high dose γ‐globulin and intrauterine fetal blood transfusion (IUT). For her most recent pregnancy, we performed only weekly or fortnightly DFPP from 13 weeks until delivery. Anti‐D antibody titer was maintained between 32 and 256 without any signs of fetal anemia. IUT was not required at any stage of the pregnancy. No adverse events were observed. She successfully delivered a healthy male infant weighing 2,289 g by Cesarean section at 35 weeks. Repeated DFPP may be an effective and safe strategy to reduce antibody titers in highly sensitized women with RhD‐incompatible pregnancy, avoiding the need for IUT. J. Clin. Apheresis 30:305–307, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Do the Poor Pay More for Maize in Malawi?
Authors: Mussa Richard
Published: November 2014

The paper uses data from the Third Integrated Household Survey to examine whether or not the poor pay more for maize in Malawi. The paper finds that the poor in rural and urban areas pay more for maize. It is found that the poor pay more for maize irrespective of when the maize is purchased. Thus, seasonality does not seem to be behind the observed poverty penalty. The paper finds that the poverty penalty varies with seasonality; it is significantly more pronounced in the post‐harvest period when maize is in abundance, it is, however, reduced in the lean season. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality improvement process to assess tattoo alignment, set‐up accuracy and isocentre reproducibility in pelvic radiotherapy patients
Authors: Elsner Kelly , Francis Kate , Hruby George , Roderick Stephanie
Published: November 2014

Introduction

This quality improvement study tested three methods of tattoo alignment and isocentre definition to investigate if aligning lateral tattoos to minimise pitch, roll and yaw decreased set‐up error, and if defining the isocentre using the lateral tattoos for cranio‐caudal (CC) position improved isocentre reproducibility. The study population was patients receiving curative external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer. The results are applicable to all supine pelvic EBRT patients.

Methods

The three sequential cohorts recruited 11, 11 and 10 patients respectively. A data set of 20 orthogonal pairs of electronic portal images (EPI) was acquired for each patient. EPIs were matched offline to digitally reconstructed radiographs. In cohort 1, lateral tattoos were adjusted to minimise roll. The anterior tattoo was used to define the isocentre. In cohort 2, lateral tattoos were aligned to minimise roll and yaw. Isocentre was defined as per cohort 1. In cohort 3, lateral tattoos were aligned as per cohort 2 and the anterior tattoo was adjusted to minimise pitch. Isocentre was defined by the lateral tattoos for CC position and the anterior tattoo for the left–right position.

Results

Cohort 3 results were superior as CC systematic and random set‐up errors reduced from −1.3 mm to −0.5 mm, and 3.1 mm to 1.4 mm respectively, from cohort 1 to cohort 3. Isocentre reproducibility also improved from 86.7% to 92.1% of treatment isocentres within 5 mm of the planned isocentre.

Conclusion

The methods of tattoo alignment and isocentre definition in cohort 3 reduced set‐up errors and improved isocentre reproducibility.
Reflecting on reviewing: Applying conflict management research
Authors: Tjosvold Dean
Published: November 2014

Reviewing manuscripts is vital for developing knowledge and promoting the capabilities of researchers. This article uses conflict management research to examine the opportunities and obstacles in making reviewing constructive for the field and for individual researchers. Although dissensus has been thought to reflect how individual biases and organizational dynamics frustrate reviewing, research suggests that when, discussed open‐mindedly, conflicts can stimulate effective reviewing. Research on open‐mindedness provides guidance for how researchers, editors, and referees can voice their conflicts and integrate their ideas to make high quality decisions and learn. However, current practices make it challenging to manage conflict openly and constructively. Fostering open‐minded discussion among researchers, editors, and referees could be an important component in making traditional and new forms of reviewing effective. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic variation in inflammatory and bone turnover pathways and risk of osteolytic responses to prosthetic materials
Authors: MacInnes Scott J. , Vescovo Elena Del , Kiss‐Toth Endre , Ollier William E.R. , Kay Peter R. , Gordon Andrew , Greenfield Edward M. , Wilkinson Mark J.
Published: November 2014

Wear particle‐induced inflammatory bone loss (osteolysis) is the leading cause of total hip arthroplasty (THA) failure. Individual susceptibility to osteolysis is modulated by genetic variation. In this 2‐stage case‐control association study we examined whether variation within candidate genes in inflammatory and bone turnover signaling pathways associates with susceptibility to osteolysis and time to prosthesis failure. We examined two cohorts, comprising 758 (347 male) Caucasian subjects who had undergone THA with a metal on polyethylene bearing couple; 315 of whom had developed osteolysis. Key genes within inflammatory, bone resorption, and bone formation pathways were screened for common variants by pairwise‐SNP tagging using a 2‐stage association analysis approach. In the discovery cohort four SNPs within RANK, and one each within KREMEN2, OPG, SFRP1, and TIRAP (p < 0.05) were associated with osteolysis susceptibility. Two SNPs within LRP6, and one each within LRP5, NOD2, SOST, SQSTM1, TIRAP, and TRAM associated with time to implant failure (p < 0.05). Meta‐analysis of the two cohorts identified four SNPs within RANK, and one each within KREMEN2, OPG, SFRP1, and TIRAP associated with osteolysis susceptibility (p < 0.05). Genetic variation within inflammatory signaling and bone turnover pathways may play a role in susceptibility to osteolysis. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:193–198, 2015.
Torsional osteotomies of the femur
Authors: Dickschas Jörg , Harrer Jörg , Reuter Benoit , Schwitulla Judith , Strecker Wolf
Published: November 2014

Various pathologies of the hip or knee, such as patellofemoral malalignment or femoroacetabular impingement may be caused by a femoral torsional deformity. When diagnosed and analyzed, it is treated by femoral torsional osteotomy. Thirty femoral torsional osteotomies in 25 patients were included, the principal symptoms were patellar dislocation in 15 patients, anterior knee pain in 17, and femoroacetabular impingement in two. A computed‐tomography‐based measurement of the torsional angle was performed in all patients. Japanese Knee Society score, Tegner activity score, Lysholm score, and visual analog scale score were determined before surgery and at follow‐up after 41 (6–113) months. Femoral internal torsion was on average 40.9° (29° − 66°; normal 24°). Surgical treatment consisted of a femoral external torsional osteotomy of on average 13.8° (5° − 26°). Tegner activity score increased non‐significantly (p‐value 0.326) from 3.57 to 3.71. Japanese Knee Society score improved significantly from 72 to 87 (p‐value 0.004) while Lysholm score rose significantly from 66 to 84 points (p‐value 0.004). Pain relief was demonstrated by a significant decrease in the VAS score from 5.6 to 2.4 (p‐value 0.007). No further patellar dislocation was reported. Torsional deformities of the femur frequently cause symptoms in the knee or hip joint. After thorough assessment and diagnostic investigation, a femoral external torsional osteotomy provides significant pain relief as well as patellofemoral stability. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:???–???, 2015.
Symmetrisers and generalised solutions for strictly hyperbolic systems with singular coefficients
Authors: Garetto Claudia , Oberguggenberger Michael
Published: November 2014

This paper is devoted to strictly hyperbolic systems and equations with non‐smooth coefficients. Below a certain level of smoothness, distributional solutions may fail to exist. We construct generalised solutions in the Colombeau algebra of generalised functions. Extending earlier results on symmetric hyperbolic systems, we introduce generalised strict hyperbolicity, construct symmetrisers, prove an appropriate Gårding inequality and establish existence, uniqueness and regularity of generalised solutions. Under additional regularity assumptions on the coefficients, when a classical solution of the Cauchy problem (or of a transmission problem in the piecewise regular case) exists, the generalised solution is shown to be associated with the classical solution (or the piecewise classical solution satisfying the appropriate transmission conditions).
Embarrassment: The New Union‐Organizing Tool
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: November 2014

In recent years, unions and other third parties have heavily used public embarrassment as a means of organizing employees. The key to conventional union organizing is to find a disgruntled employee who will serve as a leader and capitalize on existing workplace problems. These problems are typically compounded by communication breakdowns and ineffective supervisors.
Efficient Photoelectrochemical Energy Conversion using Spinach Photosystem II (PSII) in Lipid Multilayer Films
Authors: Zhang Yun , Magdaong Nikki M. , Shen Min , Frank Harry A. , Rusling James F.
Published: November 2014

The need for clean, renewable energy has fostered research into photovoltaic alternatives to silicon solar cells. Pigment–protein complexes in green plants convert light energy into chemical potential using redox processes that produce molecular oxygen. Here, we report the first use of spinach protein photosystem II (PSII) core complex in lipid films in photoelectrochemical devices. Photocurrents were generated from PSII in a ∼2 μm biomimetic dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine (DMPC) film on a pyrolytic graphite (PG) anode with PSII embedded in multiple lipid bilayers. The photocurrent was ∼20 μA cm−2 under light intensity 40 mW cm−2. The PSII–DMPC anode was used in a photobiofuel cell with a platinum black mesh cathode in perchloric acid solution to give an output voltage of 0.6 V and a maximum output power of 14 μW cm−2. Part of this large output is related to a five‐unit anode–cathode pH gradient. With catholytes at higher pH or no perchlorate, or using an MnO2 oxygen‐reduction cathode, the power output was smaller. The results described raise the possibility of using PSII–DMPC films in small portable power conversion devices.
Testicular microlithiasis and associated testicular malignancies in childhood: A systematic review
Authors: Suominen Janne S. , Jawaid Wajid B. , Losty Paul D.
Published: November 2014

The aim was to perform a systematic review to evaluate the published data on testicular microlithiasis (TM) in the pediatric population and to explore the association of TM with testicular malignancy as well as to propose guidelines to aid decision making on pediatric patients with TM. Outcome data for pediatric TM should be interpretated with caution due to the poor quality evidence available. Whilst the link with testicular neoplasms is undisputed (<5%) active screening programmes require robust evidence to support their wider deployment. Testicular self‐examination though would appear advisable for all patients with testicular microlithiasis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2015;62:385–388. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Issues Related with Pot Life Extension for Hydroxyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene‐Based Solid Propellant Binder System
Authors: Sekkar V. , Raunija Thakur Sudesh Kumar
Published: November 2014

Extension of the pot life for hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) based propellant binder systems was attempted through employing a bicurative system comprising of toluene‐di‐isocyanate (TDI) and isophorone‐di‐isocyanate (IPDI). Pot life characteristics were studied through evaluating curing kinetics for the HTPB‐bicurative binder formulations. Curing kinetics were studied through viscosity buildup during the cure reaction and estimation of the rate constants for viscosity build‐up. Introduction of IPDI slowed down the curing process, but at the same time, has not adversely affected the mechanical characteristics. One of the discouraging factors in adopting IPDI as curative is the poor interface characteristics between liner and insulator of the solid propellant grains, and it has been proposed that the root cause for the same is the permeation of IPDI through the insulator. Quantification of such permeation was attempted from the numerical values for cross‐link density evaluated for various binder compositions. Remedy for poor interface characteristics is suggested in this study.
Enzymatic formation of a resorcylic acid by creating a structure‐guided single‐point mutation in stilbene synthase
Authors: Bhan Namita , Li Lingyun , Cai Chao , Xu Peng , Linhardt Robert J. , Koffas Mattheos A. G.
Published: November 2014

A novel C17 resorcylic acid was synthesized by a structure‐guided Vitis vinifera stilbene synthase (STS) mutant, in which threonine 197 was replaced with glycine (T197G). Altering the architecture of the coumaroyl binding and cyclization pocket of the enzyme led to the attachment of an extra acetyl unit, derived from malonyl‐CoA, to p‐coumaroyl‐CoA. The resulting novel pentaketide can be produced strictly by STS‐like enzymes and not by Chalcone synthase‐like type III polyketide synthases; due to the unique thioesterase like activity of STS‐like enzymes. We utilized a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry‐based data analysis approach to directly compare the reaction products of the mutant and wild type STS. The findings suggest an easy to employ platform for precursor‐directed biosynthesis and identification of unnatural polyketides by structure‐guided mutation of STS‐like enzymes.
Solid‐phase synthesis of C‐terminal azapeptides
Authors: Doan Ngoc‐Duc , Zhang Jinqiang , Traoré Mariam , Kamdem Winnie , Lubell William D.
Published: November 2014

The solid‐phase synthesis of azapeptides possessing a C‐terminal aza‐residue has been accomplished by a protocol featuring regioselective alkylation of benzhydrylidene‐aza‐glycinamide and illustrated by the syntheses of [aza‐Lys6] growth‐hormone‐releasing peptide‐6 analogs. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exchange bias induced after zero‐field cooling in antiperovskite compounds Ga1–xNMn3+x
Authors: Lin J. C. , Tong P. , Cui D. P. , Yang C. , Lin S. , Lu W. J. , Wang B. S. , Zhao B. C. , Sun Y. P.
Published: November 2014

Zero‐field cooling (ZFC) exchange bias (EB) was observed in antiperovskite compounds Ga1–xNMn3+x (x = 0.06 and 0.1). The existence of ferromagnetic (FM) clusters has been demonstrated in a spin glass (SG) matrix. The ZFC‐EB is suggested to originate from the unidirectional anisotropy formed isothermally along the FM/SG interface. For this typical physical system, both ways including the initial magnetization process and FC process could result in the unidirectional anisotropy. In addition, the training effect after ZFC is similar to those observed in conventional FC‐EB systems.
Efficient sampling of Gaussian graphical models using conditional Bayes factors
Authors: Hinne Max , Lenkoski Alex , Heskes Tom , van Gerven Marcel
Published: November 2014

Bayesian estimation of Gaussian graphical models has proven to be challenging because the conjugate prior distribution on the Gaussian precision matrix, the G‐Wishart distribution, has a doubly intractable partition function. Recent developments provide a direct way to sample from the G‐Wishart distribution, which allows for more efficient algorithms for model selection than previously possible. Still, estimating Gaussian graphical models with more than a handful of variables remains a nearly infeasible task. Here, we propose two novel algorithms that use the direct sampler to more efficiently approximate the posterior distribution of the Gaussian graphical model. The first algorithm uses conditional Bayes factors to compare models in a Metropolis–Hastings framework. The second algorithm is based on a continuous time Markov process. We show that both algorithms are substantially faster than state‐of‐the‐art alternatives. Finally, we show how the algorithms may be used to simultaneously estimate both structural and functional connectivity between subcortical brain regions using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“Carioca Wave” – A free‐form steel‐and‐glass canopy in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Helbig Thorsten , Giampellegrini Laurent , Oppe Matthias
Published: November 2014

The elegant free‐form steel‐and‐glass canopy covers the atrium of the redevelopment of the “CasaShopping” luxury home furnishings centre in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The eye‐catching sculptural shape of the canopy is inspired by the ocean waves of the nearby seaside of Barra di Tijuca. The “Carioca Wave” rises out of a pool at ground level and arches over the atrium to provide a link between the shops and the main entrance at the lower level. The complex geometry of the structure places high demands on construction. The high‐precision node‐beam system was prefabricated in Europe in order to allow fast and simple assembly and erection on site. The free‐form steel‐and‐glass structure – one of the first of its kind in South America – was developed in a collaborative design‐and‐build project between architect Nir Sivan (Rome, Italy), special contractor se‐austria (Schoerfling, Austria) and Knippers Helbig advanced engineering (Stuttgart, Germany).
n‐3 PUFA Esterified to Glycerol or as Ethyl Esters Reduce Non‐Fasting Plasma Triacylglycerol in Subjects with Hypertriglyceridemia: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Hedengran Anne , Szecsi Pal B. , Dyerberg Jørn , Harris William S. , Stender Steen
Published: November 2014

To date, treatment of hypertriglyceridemia with long‐chain n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFA) has been investigated solely in fasting and postprandial subjects. However, non‐fasting triacylglycerols are more strongly associated with risk of cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of long‐chain n‐3 PUFA on non‐fasting triacylglycerol levels and to compare the effects of n‐3 PUFA formulated as acylglycerol (AG‐PUFA) or ethyl esters (EE‐PUFA). The study was a double‐blinded randomized placebo‐controlled interventional trial, and included 120 subjects with non‐fasting plasma triacylglycerol levels of 1.7–5.65 mmol/L (150–500 mg/dL). The participants received approximately 3 g/day of AG‐PUFA, EE‐PUFA, or placebo for a period of eight weeks. The levels of non‐fasting plasma triacylglycerols decreased 28 % in the AG‐PUFA group and 22 % in the EE‐PUFA group (P < 0.001 vs. placebo), with no significant difference between the two groups. The triacylglycerol lowering effect was evident after four weeks, and was inversely correlated with the omega‐3 index (EPA + DHA content in erythrocyte membranes). The omega‐3 index increased 63.2 % in the AG‐PUFA group and 58.5 % in the EE‐PUFA group (P < 0.001). Overall, the heart rate in the AG‐PUFA group decreased by three beats per minute (P = 0.045). High‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol increased in the AG‐PUFA group (P < 0.001). Neither total nor non‐HDL cholesterol changed in any group. Lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (LpPLA2) decreased in the EE‐PUFA group (P = 0.001). No serious adverse events were observed. Supplementation with long‐chain n‐3 PUFA lowered non‐fasting triacylglycerol levels, suggestive of a reduction in cardiovascular risk. Regardless of the different effects on heart rate, HDL, and LpPLA2 that were observed, compared to placebo, AG‐PUFA, and EE‐PUFA are equally effective in reducing non‐fasting triacylglycerol levels.
Informal payments for health care services: The case of Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Stepurko Tetiana , Pavlova Milena , Gryga Irena , Murauskiene Liubove , Groot Wim
Published: November 2014

This paper analyzes patterns of tips, gifts and bribes paid by patients for health care services. Informal payments are more prevalent in developing and transition countries because the economic and socio-cultural environment is more conducive to “gifts”-exchange as a means to maintain the underfunded health care system. Moreover, most Eastern European countries have experienced wider socio-political reforms, which have also affected health care service provision and have led to a greater reliance on informal patient payments in the access and quality assurance of health care services. This study provides evidence on public attitudes and recent experiences with informal patient payments in post-Soviet and post-communist countries, namely in Lithuania, Ukraine and Poland. The empirical results suggest a lower share of informal patient payments as well as a prevalence of more negative attitudes towards informal patient payments in Poland compared to Lithuania and Ukraine. Informal payments are more common and more expensive for in-patient health care services in contrast to out-patient ones in all countries. Still, in post-Soviet Lithuania and Ukraine informal patient payments co-exist with other types of patient payments such as quasi-formal patient payments. When clear regulation of the basic package and formal patient charges is lacking, patients experience a mixture of payment obligations. About three quarters of the respondents support the statement that informal patient payments should be eradicated. It is proposed therefore that governments of the countries should meet public expectations and implement a strategy to deal with informal patient payments. In all three countries, informal patient payments (both “bribes and fees”) are a symptom of system failure and provide a means for patients to obtain the health care they desire, which the government is not able to guarantee. Suitable regulations coupled with (dis)incentives may decrease the level of informal payments for health care provision.
Myc and Ras oncogenes engage different energy metabolism programs and evoke distinct patterns of oxidative and DNA replication stress
Authors: Maya-Mendoza Apolinar , Ostrakova Jitka , Kosar Martin , Hall Arnaldur , Duskova Pavlina , Mistrik Martin , Merchut-Maya Joanna Maria , Hodny Zdenek , Bartkova Jirina , Christensen Claus , Bartek Jiri
Published: November 2014

Both Myc and Ras oncogenes impact cellular metabolism, deregulate redox homeostasis and trigger DNA replication stress (RS) that compromises genomic integrity. However, how are such oncogene‐induced effects evoked and temporally related, to what extent are these kinetic parameters shared by Myc and Ras, and how are these cellular changes linked with oncogene‐induced cellular senescence in different cell context(s) remain poorly understood. Here, we addressed the above‐mentioned open questions by multifaceted comparative analyses of human cellular models with inducible expression of c‐Myc and H‐RasV12 (Ras), two commonly deregulated oncoproteins operating in a functionally connected signaling network. Our study of DNA replication parameters using the DNA fiber approach and time‐course assessment of perturbations in glycolytic flux, oxygen consumption and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) revealed the following results. First, overabundance of nuclear Myc triggered RS promptly, already after one day of Myc induction, causing slow replication fork progression and fork asymmetry, even before any metabolic changes occurred. In contrast, Ras overexpression initially induced a burst of cell proliferation and increased the speed of replication fork progression. However, after several days of induction Ras caused bioenergetic metabolic changes that correlated with slower DNA replication fork progression and the ensuing cell cycle arrest, gradually leading to senescence. Second, the observed oncogene‐induced RS and metabolic alterations were cell‐type/context dependent, as shown by comparative analyses of normal human BJ fibroblasts versus U2‐OS sarcoma cells. Third, the energy metabolic reprogramming triggered by Ras was more robust compared to impact of Myc. Fourth, the detected oncogene‐induced oxidative stress was due to ROS (superoxide) of non‐mitochondrial origin and mitochondrial OXPHOS was reduced (Crabtree effect). Overall, our study provides novel insights into oncogene‐evoked metabolic reprogramming, replication and oxidative stress, with implications for mechanisms of tumorigenesis and potential targeting of oncogene addiction.
Reducing the number of rigid bronchoscopies performed in suspected foreign body aspiration cases via the use of chest computed tomography: is it safe? A literature review
Authors: Tuckett P , Cervin A
Published: November 2014

Background:

Foreign body aspiration is common and potentially life threatening. Although rigid bronchoscopy has the potential for serious complications, it is the ‘gold standard’ of diagnosis. It is used frequently in light of the inaccuracy of clinical examination and chest radiography. Computed tomography is proposed as a non-invasive alternative to rigid bronchoscopy.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy and safety of computed tomography used in the diagnosis of suspected foreign body aspiration, and compare this with the current gold standard, in order to examine the possibility of using computed tomography to reduce the number of diagnostic rigid bronchoscopies performed.

Method:

The study comprised a review of literature published from 1970 to 2013, using the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Knowledge, Embase and Medline electronic databases.

Results:

The sensitivity for computed tomography ranged between 90 and 100 per cent, with four studies demonstrating 100 per cent sensitivity. Specificity was between 75 and 100 per cent. Radiation exposure doses averaged 2.16 mSv.

Conclusion:

Computed tomography is a sensitive and specific modality in the diagnosis of foreign body aspiration, and its future use will reduce the number of unnecessary rigid bronchoscopies.
Some further considerations in powder diffraction pattern indexing with the dichotomy method
Authors: Louër Daniel , Boultif Ali
Published: November 2014

Some improvements have been introduced in the current computer program for powder diffraction pattern indexing using the dichotomy algorithm. The resulting version, DICVOL14, includes optimizations and extension of scanning limits for triclinic cases, a detailed review of the input data from the indexing solutions, cell centering tests and a new approach for zero-point offset evaluation. The performance of the new version is illustrated with many examples, such as triclinic cases with long axes and dominant zones. Some important parameters in pattern indexing based on the dichotomy algorithm are commented upon, e.g. the precision of data and spurious lines.
In situdiffraction studies of iron ore sinter bonding phase formation: QPA considerations and pushing the limits of laboratory data collection
Authors: Webster Nathan A. S. , Pownceby Mark I. , Madsen Ian C. , Studer Andrew J. , Kimpton Justin A.
Published: November 2014

The formation and decomposition of silico-ferrite of calcium and aluminium (SFCA) and SFCA-I iron ore sinter bonding phases have been investigated usingin situsynchrotron and laboratory X-ray diffraction (XRD) and neutron diffraction (ND). An external standard approach for determining absolute phase concentrations via Rietveld refinement-based quantitative phase analysis is discussed. The complementarity ofin situXRD and ND in characterising sinter phase formation and decomposition is also shown, with the volume diffraction afforded by the neutron technique reducing errors in the quantification of magnetite above ~1200 °C. Finally, by collecting 6 s laboratory XRD datasets and using a heating rate of 175 °C min−1, phase formation and decomposition have been monitored under heating rates more closely approximating those encountered in industrial iron ore sintering.