bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lenalidomide and low‐dose dexamethasone (Rd) versus bortezomib, melphalan, prednisone (VMP) in elderly newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients: A comparison of two prospective trials
Authors: Gentile Massimo , Magarotto Valeria , Offidani Massimo , Musto Pellegrino , Bringhen Sara , Teresa Petrucci Maria , Gay Francesca , Larocca Alessandra , Uccello Giuseppina , Petrungaro Annamaria , Vigna Ernesto , Greco Rosa , Grazia Recchia Anna , Tripepi Giovanni , Ria Roberto , Di Raimondo Francesco , Palumbo Antonio , Morabito Fortunato
Published: December 2016

There are currently no direct head‐to‐head clinical trials evaluating bortezomib‐melphalan‐prednisone (VMP) versus lenalidomide and low‐dose dexamethasone (Rd). VMP (257 cases) and Rd (222 cases) arms of two randomized phase III trials were employed to assess the treatment influence on outcome in untreated elderly MM patients.

Progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were the primary and secondary end‐points, respectively, and were investigated according to treatments administered over a 60‐months follow‐up period.

While VMP significantly reduced the disease progression rate between enrolment and 12 months of follow‐up, no difference between the two schedules was found between 12 and 32 months. After 32 months, Rd‐treated patients had a lower incidence of disease progression. A statistically significant higher OS rate was seen in the VMP arm, which was maintained after data adjustment for potential confounders. Both approaches showed acceptable toxicity profiles.

The profound tumor reduction by VMP over Rd justifies the initial higher PFS rate in favor of the bortezomib schedule, while the Rd regimen overcomes this evident initial drawback in reducing the tumor burden by long‐term drug administration, gaining a subsequent improved disease control. VMP is associated with a significant reduced risk of death. This study may help physicians make a more informed therapy choice.
Poor outcomes associated with +der(22)t(9;22) and −9/9p in patients with Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving chemotherapy plus a tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Authors: Short Nicholas J. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Sasaki Koji , Ravandi Farhad , Ko Heidi , Cameron Yin C. , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Cortes Jorge E. , Garris Rebecca , O'Brien Susan M. , Patel Keyur , Khouri Maria , Thomas Deborah , Jain Nitin , Kadia Tapan M. , Daver Naval G. , Benton Christopher B. , Issa Ghayas C. , Konopleva Marina , Jabbour Elias
Published: December 2016

In patients with Philadelphia chromosome‐positive (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treated with chemotherapy plus a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), the prognostic impact of additional chromosomal abnormalities (ACAs) is not well‐established. We evaluated the prognostic impact of individual ACAs in 152 patients with Ph+ ALL receiving first‐line intensive chemotherapy plus either imatinib (n = 36), dasatinib (n = 74), or ponatinib (n = 42). ACAs were identified in 118 patients (78%). Compared to outcomes of patients without ACAs, ACAs were not associated with differences in either relapse‐free survival (RFS; P = 0.42) or overall survival (OS; P = 0.51). When individual ACAs were evaluated, +der(22)t(9;22) and/or −9/9p in the absence of high hyperdiploidy (HeH) was present in 16% of patients and constituted a poor‐risk ACA group. Patients with one or more poor‐risk ACAs in the absence of HeH had significantly shorter RFS (5‐year RFS rate 33% versus 59%, P = 0.01) and OS (5‐year OS rate 24% versus 63%, P = 0.003). Poor‐risk ACAs were prognostic in patients who received imatinib and dasatinib but not in those who received ponatinib. By multivariate analysis, this poor‐risk ACA group was independently associated with worse RFS (HR 2.03 [95% CI 1.08‐3.30], P = 0.03) and OS (HR 2.02 [95% CI 1.10‐3.71], P = 0.02). Patients with Ph+ ALL who have +der(22)t(9;22) and/or −9/9p in the absence of HeH have relatively poor outcomes when treated with chemotherapy plus a TKI.
Characterization and functional study of a Cecropin‐like peptide from the Chinese oak silkworm, Antheraea pernyi
Authors: Fang Shao‐Liang , Wang Lei , Fang Qi , Chen Chen , Zhao Xiao‐San , Qian Cen , Wei Guo‐Qing , Zhu Bao‐Jian , Liu Chao‐Liang
Published: December 2016

In present study, a Cecropin‐like peptide from Antheraea pernyi (ApCec) was cloned and characterized. The full‐length ApCec cDNA encoded a protein with 64 amino acids including a putative 22‐amino‐acid signal peptide, a 4‐amino‐acid propeptide, and a 38‐amino‐acid mature peptide. ApCec gene was highly expressed in Malpighian tubules of A. pernyi after induction for 24 h by Escherichia coli in PBS. Pro‐ApCec (including propeptide and mature peptide) and M‐ApCec (just mature peptide) were synthesized chemically and analyzed by HPLC and mass spectroscopy. The antibacterial activity of M‐ApCec is more potent than pro‐ApCec against E. coli K12 or B. subtilus in both minimum inhibitory concentration and inhibition zone assays. Hemolytic assay results showed M‐ApCec possessed a low cytotoxicity to mammalian cells. The secondary structure of M‐ApCec forms α‐helical structure, shown by circular dichroism spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy analysis suggested that M‐ApCec killed bacteria by disrupting bacterial cell membrane integrity. Our results indicate ApCec may play an important role in defending from pathogenic bacteria in A. pernyi, and it may be as a potential candidate for applications in antibacterial drug development and agriculture.
Observability Conditions by Polynomial Ideals
Authors: Kawano Y. , Ohtsuka T.
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we give global and local observability conditions of polynomial systems. Each observability is defined in terms of distinguishability of a pair of initial states. The set of pairs of initial states are represented as an affine variety. By using this affine variety, a global observability condition is derived. Then, a local observability condition is presented based on the minimal decomposition of the affine variety and dimension theory.
An Engineered Tryptophan Synthase Opens New Enzymatic Pathways to β‐Methyltryptophan and Derivatives
Authors: Francis Daniel , Winn Michael , Latham Jonathan , Greaney Michael F. , Micklefield Jason
Published: December 2016

β‐Methyltryptophans (β‐mTrp) are precursors in the biosynthesis of bioactive natural products and are used in the synthesis of peptidomimetic‐based therapeutics. Currently β‐mTrp is produced by inefficient multistep synthetic methods. Here we demonstrate how an engineered variant of tryptophan synthase from Salmonella (StTrpS) can catalyse the efficient condensation of l‐threonine and various indoles to generate β‐mTrp and derivatives in a single step. Although l‐serine is the natural substrate for TrpS, targeted mutagenesis of the StTrpS active site provided a variant (βL166V) that can better accommodate l‐Thr as a substrate. The condensation of l‐Thr and indole proceeds with retention of configuration at both α‐ and β‐positions to give (2S,3S)‐β‐mTrp. The integration of StTrpS (βL166V) with l‐amino acid oxidase, halogenase enzymes and palladium chemocatalysts provides access to further d‐configured and regioselectively halogenated or arylated β‐mTrp derivatives.
Second‐Generation Engineering of a Thermostable Transketolase (TKGst) for Aliphatic Aldehyde Acceptors with Either Improved or Reversed Stereoselectivity
Authors: Zhou Chaoqiang , Saravanan Thangavelu , Lorillière Marion , Wei Dongzhi , Charmantray Franck , Hecquet Laurence , Fessner Wolf‐Dieter , Yi Dong
Published: December 2016

The transketolase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus (TKGst) is a thermostable enzyme with notable high activity and stability at elevated temperatures, but it accepts non‐α‐hydroxylated aldehydes only with low efficiency. Here we report a protein engineering study of TKGst based on double‐site saturation mutagenesis either at Leu191 or at Phe435 in combination with Asp470; these are the residues responsible for substrate binding in the active site. Screening of the mutagenesis libraries resulted in several positive variants with activity towards propanal up to 7.4 times higher than that of the wild type. Variants F435L/D470E and L191V/D470I exhibited improved (73 % ee, 3S) and inverted (74 % ee, 3R) stereoselectivity, respectively, for propanal. L191V, L382F/E, F435L, and D470/D470I were concluded to be positive mutations at Leu191, Leu382, Phe435, and Asp470 both for activity and for stereoselectivity improvement. These results should benefit further engineering of TKGst for various applications in asymmetric carboligation.
Surface Reaction Kinetics of the Oxidation and Reforming of Propane over Rh/Al2O3 Catalysts
Authors: Karakaya Canan , Karadeniz Hüseyin , Maier Lubow , Deutschmann Olaf
Published: December 2016

A multi‐step surface reaction mechanism for partial oxidation and steam reforming of propane over Rh/Al2O3 catalysts is presented. The mechanism is also applicable to model reactions of the subsystems H2/CO/H2O/CO2/O2/CH4. A stagnation–flow reactor with a catalytically coated disk is used to determine the surface reaction rate and spatial concentration profiles on top of the catalytic plate using a micro‐probe sampling technique. The reactor configuration facilitates one‐dimensional modeling of coupled diffusive and convective transport within the gas‐phase boundary layer coupled with detailed heterogeneous chemistry models of the zero‐dimensional surface. The reaction system is studied at varying inlet concentrations and temperatures. The established reaction kinetics are furthermore tested by simulation of autothermal reforming of propane in an annular reactor previously described by Pagani.
Catalyst‐Controlled Multicomponent Aziridination of Chiral Aldehydes
Authors: Mukherjee Munmun , Zhou Yubai , Dai Yijing , Gupta AniL K. , Pulgam V. Reddy , Staples Richard J. , Wulff William D.
Published: December 2016

A highly diastereoselective and enantioselective method for the multicomponent aziridination of chiral aldehydes has been developed with BOROX catalysts of the VANOL (3,3′‐diphenyl‐2,2′‐bi‐1‐naphthol) and VAPOL (2,2′‐diphenyl‐(4‐biphenanthrol)) ligands. Very high to perfect catalyst control is observed with most all substrates examined including aldehydes with chiral centers in the α‐ and β‐positions. High catalyst control was also observed for a number of chiral heterocyclic aldehydes allowing for the preparation of epoxy aziridines, bis(aziridines) and ethylene diaziridines. Application of this reaction in the synthesis of β3‐homo‐d‐alloisoleucine and β3‐homo‐l‐isoleucine is reported.
Studying Fast Reaction Kinetics with Online NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: von Harbou Erik , Behrens Richard , Berje Jürgen , Brächer Alexander , Hasse Hans
Published: December 2016

A liquid thermostated microreactor Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) probe head is presented that facilitates the investigation of kinetics of fast reactions. With this setup, reaction kinetics can be studied in a broad temperature (–20 – 100 °C) and pressure range (0 – 60 bar). The setup and NMR probe head are discussed from a reaction engineering standpoint based on experiments and simulations. The microreactor probe head widens significantly the range of applications of online NMR spectroscopy for reaction and process monitoring.
Providing differentiated services, congestion management, and deadlock freedom in dragonfly networks with adaptive routing
Authors: Yébenes Pedro , Escudero‐Sahuquillo Jesus , García Pedro J. , Alfaro‐Cortés Francisco‐J. , Quiles Francisco J.
Published: December 2016

The number of endnodes in high‐performance computing systems has grown significantly in the last years. Hence, the interconnection network has become an essential issue as it may end up being the system bottleneck if it is not properly designed. In that sense, the Dragonfly topology has become very popular for interconnecting high‐performance computing systems in the last years because it offers high performance at an affordable cost. However, when using deterministic minimal‐path routing, this topology is not able to offer a high performance under certain traffic conditions. This problem can be solved by using oblivious or adaptive routing. However, there are no congestion management techniques specially tailored to Dragonfly topologies using oblivious or adaptive routing. Note that in congestion situations, the Dragonfly performance may drop because of the head‐of‐line blocking effect. This effect could be even more dangerous in systems where several applications with different priorities coexist. In this work we propose several techniques especially designed for providing differentiated services and congestion management in Dragonfly networks using oblivious or adaptive routing. First, we propose the hierarchical 3‐level queuing queuing scheme, which configures several virtual channels distributed into 3 virtual networks to reduce the head‐of‐line blocking while deadlocks derived from the routing algorithm are prevented. Second, we extend hierarchical 3‐level queuing to provide differentiated services through 2 different solutions. Finally, some experiments are performed to show the benefits obtained by using the proposed techniques.
Maximizing the lifetime of reinforced barriers in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Kim Hyunbum , Cobb Jorge A. , Ben‐Othman Jalel
Published: December 2016

Recently, barrier‐coverage in wireless sensor networks is a critical issue because it can be used for various applications (e.g., intrusion detection and border protection). Many existing works for barrier‐coverage assume that an intruder penetrates through two opposite sides such as from top to bottom or from bottom to top and focus on constructing barriers to detect those penetrations. However, in many practical scenarios, it should be desirable to detect an intruder that enters the area of interest through any of its sides and passes through any other of its sides. In this paper, we introduce a new barrier‐coverage problem whose goal is maximizing the network lifetime such that any penetration variation of the attacker is guaranteed to be detected. In order to solve the problem, we create a new type of sensor barriers, which is referred as reinforced barriers, that can sense any movement variation of the intruder. Also, we propose four different approaches to construct reinforced barriers from a given layout of sensors and we compare their relative performances for maximum number of reinforced barriers through extensive simulations by various scenarios. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrafast Spin Crossover in [FeII(bpy)3]2+: Revealing Two Competing Mechanisms by Extreme Ultraviolet Photoemission Spectroscopy
Authors: Moguilevski Alexandre , Wilke Martin , Grell Gilbert , Bokarev Sergey I. , Aziz Saadullah G. , Engel Nicholas , Raheem Azhr A. , Kühn Oliver , Kiyan Igor Yu. , Aziz Emad F.
Published: December 2016

Photoinduced spin‐flip in FeII complexes is an ultrafast phenomenon that has the potential to become an alternative to conventional processing and magnetic storage of information. Following the initial excitation by visible light into the singlet metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer state, the electronic transition to the high‐spin quintet state may undergo different pathways. Here we apply ultrafast XUV (extreme ultraviolet) photoemission spectroscopy to track the low‐to‐high spin dynamics in the aqueous iron tris‐bipyridine complex, [Fe(bpy)3]2+, by monitoring the transient electron density distribution among excited states with femtosecond time resolution. Aided by first‐principles calculations, this approach enables us to reveal unambiguously both the sequential and direct de‐excitation pathways from singlet to quintet state, with a branching ratio of 4.5:1.
Effects of Functional Analytic Psychotherapy Therapist Training on Therapist Factors Among Therapist Trainees in Singapore: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Keng Shian‐Ling , Waddington Emma , Lin Xiangting Bernice , Tan Michelle Su Qing , Henn‐Haase Clare , Kanter Jonathan W.
Published: December 2016

Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP) is a behavioral psychotherapy intervention that emphasizes the development of an intimate and intense therapeutic relationship as the vehicle of therapeutic change. Recently, research has provided preliminary support for a FAP therapist training (FAPTT) protocol in enhancing FAP competency. The present study aimed to expand on this research by examining the effects of FAPTT on FAP‐specific skills and competencies and a set of broadly desirable therapist qualities (labelled awareness, courage and love in FAPTT) in a sample of therapist trainees in Singapore. The study also evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of FAP in the Singaporean context. Twenty‐five students enrolled in a master's in clinical psychology program were recruited and randomly assigned to receive either eight weekly sessions of a FAPTT course or to a waitlist condition. All participants completed measures assessing empathy, compassionate love, trait mindfulness, authenticity and FAP‐specific skills and competencies pre‐ and post‐training, and at 2‐month follow‐up. A post‐course evaluation was administered to obtain participants' qualitative feedback. Results indicated that compared with the waitlisted group, FAPTT participants reported significant increases in overall empathy, FAP skill and treatment acceptability from pre‐ to post‐training. Improvements were observed on several outcome variables at 2‐month follow‐up. Participants reported finding the training to be both feasible and acceptable, although several raised issues related to the compatibility of the treatment with the local cultural context. Overall, the findings suggest that FAPTT is effective for improving specific FAP competencies and selected broadly desirable therapist qualities among therapist trainees. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Functional Analytic Therapy (FAP) therapist training protocol was effective in improving empathy and FAP skills among Singaporean therapist trainees.

These improvements were maintained at 2‐month follow‐up.

The training was found to be acceptable in the Singaporean context, although several adaptations were suggested to increase the compatibility between FAP principles and local cultural norms.
Enhanced Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence in New Fluorescein Derivatives By Introducing Aromatic Carbonyl Groups
Authors: Wu Yingnan , Song Fengling , Luo Wenfang , Liu Zhiwei , Song Bo , Peng Xiaojun
Published: December 2016

In this work, two new fluorescein derivatives which exhibit thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) were rationally designed and synthesized by introducing aromatic carbonyl groups to increase the rate of intersystem crossing. The TADF properties of one of two compounds (the thiophene‐containing derivative) were found to be additionally enhanced as a result of the presence of the thiophene moieties, with the compound having a TADF lifetime of 52.05 μs in deaerated ethanol. The thiophene‐containing derivative was used in time‐resolved luminescence imaging of MCF‐7 cells.
An approach to incorporate individual personality in modeling fish dispersal across in‐stream barriers
Authors: Hirsch Philipp Emanuel , Thorlacius Magnus , Brodin Tomas , Burkhardt‐Holm Patricia
Published: December 2016

Animal personalities are an important factor that affects the dispersal of animals. In the context of aquatic species, dispersal modeling needs to consider that most freshwater ecosystems are highly fragmented by barriers reducing longitudinal connectivity. Previous research has incorporated such barriers into dispersal models under the neutral assumption that all migrating animals attempt to ascend at all times. Modeling dispersal of animals that do not perform trophic or reproductive migrations will be more realistic if it includes assumptions of which individuals attempt to overcome a barrier. We aimed to introduce personality into predictive modeling of whether a nonmigratory invasive freshwater fish (the round goby, Neogobius melanostomus) will disperse across an in‐stream barrier. To that end, we experimentally assayed the personalities of 259 individuals from invasion fronts and established round goby populations. Based on the population differences in boldness, asociability, and activity, we defined a priori thresholds with bolder, more asocial, and more active individuals having a higher likelihood of ascent. We then combined the personality thresholds with swimming speed data from the literature and in situ measurements of flow velocities in the barrier. The resulting binary logistic regression model revealed probabilities of crossing a barrier which depended not only on water flow and fish swimming speed but also on animal personalities. We conclude that risk assessment through predictive dispersal modeling across fragmented landscapes can be advanced by including personality traits as parameters. The inclusion of behavior into modeling the spread of invasive species can help to improve the accuracy of risk assessments.
Prognostic burden of heart failure recorded in primary care, acute hospital admissions, or both: a population‐based linked electronic health record cohort study in 2.1 million people
Authors: Koudstaal Stefan , Pujades‐Rodriguez Mar , Denaxas Spiros , Gho Johannes M.I.H. , Shah Anoop D. , Yu Ning , Patel Riyaz S. , Gale Chris P. , Hoes Arno W. , Cleland John G. , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Hemingway Harry
Published: December 2016

Aims

The prognosis of patients hospitalized for worsening heart failure (HF) is well described, but not that of patients managed solely in non‐acute settings such as primary care or secondary outpatient care. We assessed the distribution of HF across levels of healthcare, and assessed the prognostic differences for patients with HF either recorded in primary care (including secondary outpatient care) (PC), hospital admissions alone, or known in both contexts.

Methods and results

This study was part of the CALIBER programme, which comprises linked data from primary care, hospital admissions, and death certificates for 2.1 million inhabitants of England. We identified 89 554 patients with newly recorded HF, of whom 23 547 (26%) were recorded in PC but never hospitalized, 30 629 (34%) in hospital admissions but not known in PC, 23 681 (27%) in both, and 11 697 (13%) in death certificates only. The highest prescription rates of ACE inhibitors, beta‐blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists was found in patients known in both contexts. The respective 5‐year survival in the first three groups was 43.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) 43.2–44.6%], 21.7% (95% CI 21.1–22.2%), and 39.8% (95% CI 39.2–40.5%), compared with 88.1% (95% CI 87.9–88.3%) in the age‐ and sex‐matched general population.

Conclusion

In the general population, one in four patients with HF will not be hospitalized for worsening HF within a median follow‐up of 1.7 years, yet they still have a poor 5‐year prognosis. Patients admitted to hospital with worsening HF but not known with HF in primary care have the worst prognosis and management. Mitigating the prognostic burden of HF requires greater consistency across primary and secondary care in the identification, profiling, and treatment of patients.

Trial registration: NCT02551016
A microfluidic paper‐based device to assess acetylcholinesterase activity
Authors: Liu Chunye , Gomez Frank A.
Published: December 2016

Neurotransmitters play key roles in cell‐to‐cell communication. These chemical messengers are involved in many functional processes, including growth, reproduction, memory, and behavior. In this communication, we describe a novel microfluidic paper‐based analytical device (μPAD) to detect acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and inhibitor screening through a colorimetric analysis. The μPAD is easily fabricated via a wax printing process whereby wax is deposited onto the surface of chromatographic paper, and heated to create a hydrophobic barrier. Separate solutions of 5,5′‐dithiobis‐(2‐nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) and samples containing AChE and acetylthiocholine iodide (ATC) (or cysteine, Cys), respectively, are directly spotted onto the μPAD. DTNB and AChE/ATC (or Cys) flow towards each other where a reaction occurs to form the yellow colored 2‐nitro‐5‐thiobenzoic acid anion (TNB2−). The device is dried, scanned, and analyzed yielding a linear range of average inverse yellow intensities versus substrate concentration. An IC50value (0.045 nM) with a known inhibitor, neostigmine bromide (NB), is obtained on the device. μPADs are low cost and easy to fabricate and have great potential to quantify neurotransmitter activity.
Analysis of four PCR/SNaPshot multiplex assays analyzing 52 SNPforID markers
Authors: Goodwin William , Alimat Sharizah
Published: December 2016

The SNPforID consortium identified a panel of 52 SNPs for forensic analysis that has been used by several laboratories worldwide. The original analysis of the 52 SNPs was based on a single multiplex reaction followed by two single‐base‐extension (SBE) reactions each of which was analyzed using capillary electrophoresis. The SBE assays were designed for high throughput genetic analyzers and were difficult to use on the single capillary ABI PRISM 310 Genetic Analyzer and the latest generation 3500 Genetic Analyzer, as sensitivity on the 310 was low and separation of products on the 3500 with POP‐7™ was poor. We have modified the original assay and split it into four multiplex reactions, each followed by an SBE assay. These multiplex assays were analyzed using polymer POP‐4™ on ABI 310 PRISM® and polymers POP‐4™, POP‐6™ and POP‐7™ on the 3500 Genetic Analyzer. The assays were sensitive and reproducible with input DNA as low as 60 pg using both the ABI 310 and 3500. In addition, we found that POP‐6™ was most effective with the 3500, based on the parameters that we assessed, achieving better separation of the small SBE products; this conflicted with the recommended use of POP‐7™ by the instrument manufacturer. To support the use of the SNP panel in casework in Malaysia we have created an allele frequency database from 325 individuals, representing the major population groups within Malaysia. Population and forensic parameters were estimated for all populations and its efficacy evaluated using 51 forensic samples from challenging casework.
Amino acid profile and protein quality in tuber and leaf of Coccnia abyssinica (Lam.) (Cogn.) accessions of Ethiopia
Authors: Ayalew Yenenesh , Retta Nigusse , Desse Gulelat , Mohammed Ali , Mellesse Adey
Published: December 2016

The protein content and amino acid profile of Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica) leaves and tubers were determined from ten different accessions taken from Debre Zeit Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia. Crude protein content was determined by Kjeldahl method and amino acid profile was analyzed using performic acid oxidation and acid hydrolysis by ninhydrin‐derivatized analysis with amino acid analyzer. Crude protein content of Anchote tuber ranged from 10.70% ± 0.26% to 13.72% ± 0.10%, whereas the crude protein content in leaves were ranged between 30.38 ± 0.01% (“240407‐1”) and 35.42 ± 0.05% (“223109‐1”). Total amino acid content ranged from 45.12 to 62.89 and 67.31 to 75.69 g/100 g protein for tuber and leaf samples, respectively. The mean values of essential, conditionally essential and nonessential amino acids were 37.22 & 36.79%; 28.62 & 24.10%; and 34.16 & 39.11% for tubers and leaves, respectively. Arginine in tubers and glutamic acid in leaves ranked the highest of all amino acids; while the least dominant essential amino acid was methionine in both parts. Among the essential amino acids, leucine was dominant in all accessions tested with values ranged from 3.12 to 5.32 g/100 g protein in tubers and from 5.15 to 5.65 g/100 g protein in leaves. In general, the average amino acid content was higher in the leaves (71.08 g/100 g protein) compared to the tubers (51.11 g/100 g protein). The nutritional quality of Coccinia abyssinica leaves and tubers range as follows: total essential amino acids (TEAA)/ total amino acids (TAA) (37.57 & 36.82%), TEAA/total non‐essential amino acids (TNEAA) ratio (0.60 & 0.58), The predicted protein efficiency ratio (P‐PER) (1.22 & 1.80), Essential amino acid index (EAAI) (35.28 & 53.93%), Predicted biological value (P‐BV) (26.76 & 47.09%), Nutritional index (4.11 & 17.71%), and Amino acid score (73 & 108) for tuber and leaf sample, respectively. A significant variability was observed in protein and amino acid profile among accessions and plant parts, and the leaf part were found to be richer in protein content and associated nutritional quality.
Lymphatic drainage patterns of oral maxillary tumors: Approachable locations of sentinel lymph nodes mainly at the cervical neck level
Authors: Boeve Koos , Schepman Kees‐Pieter , van der Vegt B , Schuuring Ed , Roodenburg Jan L. , Brouwers Adrienne H. , Witjes Max J.
Published: December 2016

Background

There is debate if the lymphatic drainage pattern of oral maxillary cancer is to the retropharyngeal lymph nodes or to the cervical lymph nodes. Insight in drainage patterns is important for the indication for neck treatment. The purpose of this study was to identify the lymphatic drainage pattern of oral maxillary cancer via preoperative lymphoscintigraphy.

Methods

Eleven consecutive patients with oral maxillary cancer treated in our center between December 1, 2012, and April 22, 2016 were studied. Sentinel lymph nodes identified by preoperative lymphoscintigraphy after injection of 99mTc‐nanocolloid and by intraoperative detection using a γ‐probe, were surgically removed and histopathologically examined.

Results

In 10 patients, sentinel lymph nodes were detected and harvested at cervical levels I, II, or III in the neck. In 2 patients, a parapharyngeal sentinel lymph node was detected. One of the harvested sentinel lymph nodes (1/19) was tumor positive.

Conclusion

This study suggests the likelihood of 73% of exclusively cervical level I to III sentinel lymph nodes in oral maxillary cancer. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 486–491, 2017
Significant and durable clinical benefit from trastuzumab in 2 patients with HER2‐amplified salivary gland cancer and a review of the literature
Authors: Thorpe Lauren M. , Schrock Alexa B. , Erlich Rachel L. , Miller Vincent A. , Knost James , Le‐Lindqwister Nguyet , Jujjavarapu Srinivas , Ali Siraj M. , Liu Jane J.
Published: December 2016

Background

Salivary ductal carcinoma and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CEPA) are aggressive salivary gland cancers with poor prognosis. The standard of care is resection with or without radiotherapy, and there are no established systemic therapy options.

Methods

We describe 1 patient with metastatic CEPA and 1 patient with metastatic recurrent salivary duct carcinoma whose tumors were evaluated by comprehensive genomic profiling. Testing identified human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) amplification in both patients, and an additional activating HER2 mutation in the CEPA case.

Results

Both patients were treated with the HER2‐targeting monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (herceptin) plus chemotherapy and experienced rapid responses. Subsequently, both patients were given single‐agent maintenance trastuzumab and continue to experience durable disease control.

Conclusion

Given the poor prognosis for salivary gland cancers and the limited treatment options upon recurrence or metastasis, patients should be tested for all classes of HER2 alterations. In cases with HER2 overexpression or activation, targeted therapies, such as trastuzumab are promising. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: E40–E44, 2017
Case of parotid mucoepidermoid carcinoma: Expanding the spectrum of von Hippel‐Lindau–related neoplasms
Authors: Berger Michael H. , Kerr Darcy A. , Rangel Filho Artur E. , Sargi Zoukaa B.
Published: December 2016

Background

von Hippel–Lindau (VHL)‐related tumors occurring outside the spectrum of VHL‐defining tumors are rare, and mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) in the setting of VHL disease has not been described.

Methods and Results

We describe a patient with confirmed VHL mutation who presented with a parotid mass and a history of 2 central nervous system (CNS) hemangioblastomas and 1 pheochromocytoma. Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of the mass suggested a benign Warthin tumor. The mass was resected and final pathology revealed a low‐grade MEC. Fluorescence in situ hybridization for the MECT1/MAML2 fusion gene frequently associated with MEC was performed and was negative. Molecular testing of tumor cells displayed a likely “second hit” VHL gene mutation.

Conclusion

There is a possible broader role of VHL mutations in tumorigenesis beyond the development of classically described VHL‐defining neoplasms. Our case also demonstrates the importance of always considering the possibility of a parotid malignancy in patients with VHL despite a benign FNA. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: E51–E54, 2017
Pretreatment direct bilirubin and total cholesterol are significant predictors of overall survival in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer patients with EGFR mutations
Authors: Zhang Yanwei , Xu Jianlin , Lou Yuqing , Hu Song , Yu Keke , Li Rong , Zhang Xueyan , Jin Bo , Han Baohui
Published: December 2016

This study was designed to examine the prediction of pretreatment circulating bilirubin and cholesterol for overall survival in 459 advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Circulating total bilirubin, direct bilirubin (DB), total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels were measured at baseline. The mean age (standard deviation) of all study patients was 58.7 (10.5) years, and 42.9% of them was males. Ever smokers accounted for 27.0% and lung adenocarcinoma for 90.4%. The median follow‐up time and survival time were 29.5 and 34.9 months, respectively. Patients with higher DB had a 1.68‐fold increased risk of death compared with patients with lower DB (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22–2.30, p = 0.001), while patients with higher TC were at a 63% reduced risk of death compared with patients with lower TC (HR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.20–0.67, p = 0.001). As for HDL‐C, patients with higher levels had the risk of death reduced by 46% (HR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.29–1.00, p = 0.049) compared with patients with lower levels. After the Bonferroni correction, only DB and TC were significantly associated with NSCLC survival. Our findings demonstrate for the first time that pretreatment DB was identified as a significant risk factor, yet TC as a protective factor, for overall survival in NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations.
Censorship and the Australian Public
Authors: Vinson Tony , Robinson Arthur
Published: December 2016

Recently the authors with the assistance of a research grant from the Sebel Company of Australia, carried out a study of attitudes held by sub‐groups within Australian society. One of the topical issues investigated was the desirability of censorship of the mass media. The results of this section of the inquiry, based on a questionnaire administered to 1,455 adults in Sydney and Melbourne, are presented in this article.
Society and Social Security in France
Authors: Dyer Colin
Published: December 2016

An overview is given of some salient demographic characteristics in the dramatically changing socio‐economic environment of France. Examination of social security and medical insurance provision shows how social welfare benefits have become more or less vital in the French family's maintenance of improved living standards. It is concluded that French social security services now compare favourably with provisions in other countries, but that birth‐rate problems and other social effects of rapid developmental change remain to be overcome.
Alcohol and Aborigines In Cross‐Cultural Situations
Authors: Lickiss J. Norelle
Published: December 2016

During a two‐year association with Sydney Aboriginal households, opportunities arose for observation and discussion concerning alcohol use, and certain impressions emerged: (a) personal factors related to problem drinking stressed by investigators such as the McCords could operate among the Aboriginal people; (b) drinking customs fulfil certain social needs; the public drinking house serves several functions within urban Aboriginal life, including communication and social integration as well as relaxation. Social control of alcohol abuse demands provision of functional equivalents of these aspects of drinking patterns; and (c) whilst the role of racial tension in the genesis of problem drinking is not clear, racial factors may contribute to personal stress and communal malaise among the Aborigines. The complexity of the genesis of the present situation is stressed and its understanding is considered to be a continuing challenge.
Achievement Behaviour, Vocational Aspirations, And Action Research With High School Aboriginal Students
Authors: Lett W. R.
Published: December 2016

An action research project designed to contribute to improved school performance and gain insights into educationally relevant dimensions of the behaviour of high school Aboriginal students was implemented in a country community. Attitudes to school and employment were assessed; achievement motivation, compared with white slow learners, was measured; and both coaching in academic work and vocational reality testing were provided for students. The presence of a surprising degree of achievement motivation is discussed as a variable of considerable importance which has been neglected in Aboriginal education.
The Epileptic: A Study in Status‐Role Relationships
Authors: Falk Gerhard , Gorman Julia P.
Published: December 2016

The status‐role of the epileptic in the United States and elsewhere is such that he is handicapped in gaining employment and education. In fact, it is not epilepsy per se which prevents epileptics from adequately participating in our society, but the beliefs about epilepsy. These beliefs have a long history and are derived from ancient and mythical sources. They have no validity in the light of medical advances made in this field over the past thirty years. Hence it is now necessary to give epileptics those educational and vocational opportunities which others have and of which epileptics have been unjustly deprived.
Adolescent Sex Education
Authors: Collins John K.
Published: December 2016

While the aim of the special sex education lecture given to pupils by authorities invited from outside the educational system is laudable, the content is not based on empirical investigation of the needs of youth. A survey of 1,426 adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 years showed that greater emphasis is needed on the social aspects of dating behaviour than on reproductive biology. An obvious educational need with social implications remains unheeded by government ministers.
Family Assistance and the Redistribution of Income
Authors: Harper R. J. A.
Published: December 2016

Assistance to families is commonly provided through cash family allowances and by giving tax concessions to families. Both approaches have long histories in Britain and Australia, but in spite of this they continue to operate in both countries in an inconsistent manner in which their redistributive effects are not clear. The British are planning to rationalize their system and it is appropriate that Australia should do so too. Two proposals for changing the Australian system of assistance to families are considered, and their redistributive effects on families of different size and with different levels of incomes are analysed.
The Trouble with Lawyers
Authors: Wilson Paul R.
Published: December 2016

The Australian legal system and lawyers as a professional group are critically examined in three main areas: excessively high legal costs in certain areas; failure to provide legal services within the reach of the poorer sections of the community; and failure to become involved and to press for reform on important sociological and socio‐legal matters.
A Policy for Adult Education in Penal Institutions
Authors: Juchau R. H.
Published: December 2016

The most pressing issue for prison administrators today is the problem of how best to effectively rehabilitate the incarcerated. This paper argues for an education policy which promotes adult education as part of the rehabilitation process, one that makes education an appealing prospect for the prisoner by providing him with both a rationale for work and the capacity to move into society as an independent person, with sense of sociability and worth restored. Drawing on current literature in prison sociology, an outline is given of the impact of incarceration on inmates and the problems consequently arising for the rehabilitation process. A possible workable policy for adult education in prisons is then formulated.
The Relationship of Four Types of ‘Broken Home’ to Some Neglected Parameters of Juvenile Delinquency
Authors: Kraus J. , Smith Janice
Published: December 2016

Using a sample of 1,130 male juvenile offenders, the relationship of four types of ‘broken home’ to the age at onset of delinquency, recidivism, rate of offences, and types of offence was investigated. The number of recidivists was found to be significantly greater among offenders who were living only with fathers than among offenders living with both parents. A trend in this direction was also found among offenders living only with mothers. Offenders living apart from parents were found to be older at the time of their first offence than were offenders living with both parents. The findings were discussed critically, and it was concluded that they support the hypothesis that the ‘broken home’ is not per se a causal factor in juvenile delinquency.
Sunshine Isn't Everything!
Authors: Coverdale G. M.
Published: December 2016

In recent years the decline in morale among Australian teachers has been reflected in the high drop‐out rate of teacher trainees. In an attempt to account for this situation, a pilot study was conducted with a sample of experienced teachers in New South Wales. An overview is given of the hierarchical importance which the respondents ascribed to a number of professional, educational and social considerations.
Urbanization and Patterns of Juvenile Delinquency in New South Wales
Authors: Kraus J.
Published: December 2016

A comparison of urban and rural patterns of juvenile delinquency in N.S.W. showed that, among boys, there were more charges of breaking entering and stealing, assault, robbery, and truancy in the metropolitan area, and more charges of stealing, receiving, malicious damage, offences against good order, and ‘complaints’ (C.W. Act) in country areas. More boys aged 15 to 17 were charged in the metropolitan area and more aged 12 to 14 in country areas. Similar urban‐rural differences were found among girls; however, except for truancy and being uncontrollable, they were not significant. Additionally, in rural areas 12‐year‐old girls were charged more often with criminal offences and selected ‘complaints’.
The Ethics of Preschool Intervention: Project Enrichment of Childhood, Bourke, N.S.W.
Authors: Taylor L. J. , Nurcombe B. , de Lacey P. R.
Published: December 2016

The present paper examines the question of intervention in the learning process of disadvantaged children by presenting a description of programmes and results from the experimental preschool at Bourke, N.S.W. The preschool attempts to provide the children with a choice of linguistic codes by teaching them the characteristics of elaborated formal English. The programme does not replace the restricted code but builds on it. Results are presented which indicate that a highly structured programme is most effective in accomplishing this goal. The problems associated with the research project and attempts to solve these difficulties are also discussed.
Dating Intimacy as a Function of Age, Sex, and Religion
Authors: Collins J. K.
Published: December 2016

A study of the dating behaviour of 237 male and 324 female university students showed that while females remain more conservative than males this was only with regard to the deeper forms of intimacy behaviour. There was no evidence to suggest rampant teenage sexuality although petting behaviour was almost universally experienced. Both similarities and differences were found when the results were compared with overseas data. It was also found that religious affiliation had little influence on sexual behaviour.
Rezoning the Poor
Authors: Brennan T.
Published: December 2016

If a major effect of public housing is to rezone the poor then positive discrimination in favour of the new zones is needed to avoid worsening their situation. The Green Valley estate of the New South Wales Housing Commission is one such public housing scheme which has concentrated relatively poor families into a badly serviced area. Since the most needy moved in first are likely to be the least effective pioneers, the problems of the area are likely to be doubly difficult.
Structured or General Enrichment Programmes for Preschool Children?
Authors: Goldman Ronald J. , Poole Millicent E.
Published: December 2016

The burgeoning interest in preschool education is not without its problems. Not least of these are issues relating to an educational philosophy to guide the types of programmes developed in preschools for different groups of children (especially those labelled ‘socio‐culturally’ disadvantaged). In addition, there are problems of implementation connected with the financing of the preschool movement, and the provision of adequate numbers of professionally prepared staff. This article attempts to examine critically some of the key issues in enrichment programmes for preschool children, and subsequently to make some policy recommendations.
Socio‐economic Status and Mental Health in Canberra
Authors: Bruen W. J.
Published: December 2016

Results of the Canberra Mental Health Survey, which surveyed 1 per cent of the population of Canberra, indicate that psychiatric impairment is negatively correlated with socio‐economic status for adults. No relationship occurs, however, between socio‐economic status and ‘happiness in life’ or social role functioning. The high degree of psychiatric impairment in the low socio‐economic status groups is a common finding in overseas studies but has not previously been reported in Australia. Variables which may account for the finding include the affluence of Canberra in general and the relatively small proportion of low socio‐economic status groups in Canberra.
Who Participates?
Authors: Graham Janne D.
Published: December 2016

Reported membership of voluntary organizations is taken as an index of community participation. Data derived from a Mental Health Survey in Canberra in 1971 are analysed and participation behaviour compared with information from American participation studies. A high participation rate was expected because of Canberra's high ranking on socio‐economic variables compared with Australia as a whole. However, nearly half of the adults sampled report belonging to no formal organizations. Sex, age and socio‐economic status are found to be related to joining behaviour and conform to well‐established findings in the United States.
National Health Insurance: An Alternate Medical Viewpoint
Authors: Benn Keith McL.
Published: December 2016

Increasing medical technology, expertise and community expectations of health care are leading to an alarming escalation of health costs throughout the world. Many health planners are expressing doubts as to whether quality of health care can be maintained in the present circumstances. It is maintained that the Australian Government's proposal of National Health Insurance is an interim measure, intended to grant hospital and medical expenditure assistance to the entire community, at minimum cost. There is little evidence that the scheme threatens the medical market place, as it is seen at the moment, and a plea is made for productive and constructive discussion of the scheme by the medical profession.