bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CCII‐based non‐inverting Schmitt trigger and its application as astable multivibrator for capacitive sensor interfacing
Authors: De Marcellis Andrea , Ferri Giuseppe , Mantenuto Paolo
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a novel second‐generation current conveyor (CCII)‐based non‐inverting Schmitt trigger topology. By means of the use of only three resistances, it is possible to set easily the threshold values or, in addition, the trigger can be set also to work as a zero‐voltage comparator. The theoretical working principle has been confirmed through PSpice simulations implementing an integrated CCII, designed in a low‐cost standard complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor technology (Austria Micro Systems (AMS) 0.35 µm) with low‐voltage low‐power characteristics, and then by experimental tests on the fabricated printed circuit board prototype through the use of the commercial component AD844 (Analog Devices) as CCII. As its main application example, the presented trigger has been employed to implement an astable multivibrator proposed here as a capacitive sensor interface capable to accurately detect about five decades of capacitive variations in the range of [100 pF–5.5 μF] with a maximum relative error lower than ±10%. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution of the elaborate male intromittent organ of Xiphophorus fishes
Authors: Jones Julia C. , Fruciano Carmelo , Keller Anja , Schartl Manfred , Meyer Axel
Published: September 2016

Internally fertilizing animals show a remarkable diversity in male genital morphology that is associated with sexual selection, and these traits are thought to be evolving particularly rapidly. Male fish in some internally fertilizing species have “gonopodia,” highly modified anal fins that are putatively important for sexual selection. However, our understanding of the evolution of genital diversity remains incomplete. Contrary to the prediction that male genital traits evolve more rapidly than other traits, here we show that gonopodial traits and other nongonopodial traits exhibit similar evolutionary rates of trait change and also follow similar evolutionary models in an iconic genus of poeciliid fish (Xiphophorus spp.). Furthermore, we find that both mating and nonmating natural selection mechanisms are unlikely to be driving the diverse Xiphophorus gonopodial morphology. Putative holdfast features of the male genital organ do not appear to be influenced by water flow, a candidate selective force in aquatic habitats. Additionally, interspecific divergence in gonopodial morphology is not significantly higher between sympatric species, than between allopatric species, suggesting that male genitals have not undergone reproductive character displacement. Slower rates of evolution in gonopodial traits compared with a subset of putatively sexually selected nongenital traits suggest that different selection mechanisms may be acting on the different trait types. Further investigations of this elaborate trait are imperative to determine whether it is ultimately an important driver of speciation.
Worse prognosis of real‐world patients with acute heart failure from the Czech AHEAD registry in comparison to patients from the RELAX‐AHF trial
Authors: Spinar Jindrich , Jarkovsky Jiri , Spinarova Lenka , Vitovec Jiri , Linhart Ales , Widimsky Petr , Miklik Roman , Zeman Kamil , Belohlavek Jan , Malek Filip , Cihalik Cestmir , Spac Jiri , Felsoci Marian , Ostadal Petr , Dusek Ladislav , Kettner Jiri , Vaclavik Jan , Littnerova Simona , Monhart Zdeněk , Malek Josef , Parenica Jiri ,   on behalf of the AHEAD registry investigators
Published: September 2016

Aims

The randomized clinical trial RELAX‐AHF demonstrated a positive effect of vasodilator therapy with serelaxin in the treatment of AHF patients. The aim of our study was to compare clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients from the AHEAD registry who met criteria of the RELAX‐AHF trial (relax‐comparable group) with the same characteristics and outcomes of patients from the AHEAD registry who did not meet those criteria (relax‐non‐comparable group), and finally with characteristics and outcomes of patients from the RELAX‐AHF trial.

Methods and results

A total of 5856 patients from the AHEAD registry (Czech registry of AHF) were divided into two groups according to RELAX‐AHF criteria: relax‐comparable (n = 1361) and relax‐non‐comparable (n = 4495). As compared with the relax‐non‐comparable group, patients in the relax‐comparable group were older, had higher levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, lower creatinine clearance, and a higher number of comorbidities. Relax‐comparable patients also had significantly lower short‐term as well as long‐term mortality rates in comparison to relax‐non‐comparable patients, but a significantly higher mortality rate in comparison to the placebo group of patients from the RELAX‐AHF trial. Using AHEAD score, we have identified higher‐risk patients from relax‐comparable group who might potentially benefit from new therapeutic approaches in the future.

Conclusions

Only about one in five of all evaluated patients met criteria for the potential treatment with the new vasodilator serelaxin. AHF patients from the real clinical practice had a higher mortality when compared with patients from the randomized clinical trial.
Quality of life and long‐term mortality in patients with advanced chronic heart failure treated with intermittent low‐dose intravenous inotropes in an outpatient setting
Authors: Chernomordik Fernando , Freimark Dov , Arad Michael , Shechter Michael , Matetzky Shlomi , Savir Yulia , Shlomo Nir , Peled Amir , Goldenberg Ilan , Peled Yael
Published: September 2016

Aims

There are limited data on the effect of low‐dose, intermittent inotropic therapy in an outpatient setting on the quality of life (QOL) in patients with advanced refractory heart failure (HF) symptoms. We aimed to analyse the effect of this treatment modality on QOL and subsequent survival.

Methods and results

The study population comprised 287 consecutive patients with advanced refractory HF symptoms who were treated with low‐dose, intravenous intermittent inotropic therapy in the HF Day Care Service at Sheba Medical Centre between September 2000 and September 2012. All patients completed a baseline Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLWHFQ), and 137 (48%) completed a 1 year follow‐up questionnaire. MLWHFQ scores' means ranged from 0 (better QOL) to 5 (worse QOL). Mean age was 68 ± 12, 86% were men, 77% had ischaemic cardiomyopathy, and the mean left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) was 26% ± 13. The mean baseline MLWHFQ score was 3.1 (±1), while the mean at 1 year of treatment was of 2.7 (±1.1), indicating an overall improvement in QOL associated with intermittent low‐dose inotrope therapy (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis showed that younger age, non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy, and worse renal function were independently associated with improvement in QOL at 1 year. Improvement in QOL was not associated with a significant survival benefit during subsequent follow‐up.

Conclusions

In patients with advanced refractory HF symptoms, treatment with low‐dose, intermittent intravenous inotropes in an outpatient setting is associated with significant improvement in QOL. However, improvement in QOL in this population does not appear to affect subsequent long‐term survival.
Enantioselective Nitroso Aldol Reaction Catalyzed by a Chiral Phosphine–Silver Complex
Authors: Yanagisawa Akira , Lin Yuqin , Takeishi Akihiro , Yoshida Kazuhiro
Published: September 2016

A catalytic asymmetric O‐nitroso aldol reaction of alkenyl trifluoroacetates with nitrosoarenes was achieved by using QuinoxP*·AgOAc [(R,R)‐QuinoxP* = (–)‐(R,R)‐2,3‐bis(tert‐butylmethylphosphino)quinoxaline] as the chiral precatalyst and N,N‐diisopropylethylamine as the base precatalyst in the presence of methanol. Optically active α‐aminooxy ketones with up to 99 % ee were regioselectively obtained in moderate to high yields by the in situ generated chiral silver enolates.
Energy and life cost analysis of a wet wall solar still with various pump working conditions
Authors: Heydari Ali , Rahbar Nader
Published: September 2016

In this study, a basin type solar still is investigated whose enclosure walls are soaked with a periodic injection. The equipment was tested under the climatic conditions in Semnan, Iran. Two enclosures were manufactured for this purpose. One of them enjoyed a pump to soak the enclosure walls, while the other one was a conventional system with no such pump. In active chamber, effects of pump's working and off durations were investigated before being compared with those of a passive one. The results showed that the efficiency could be enhanced 7% and the rate of output fresh water could be increased ∼75% with the wet walls. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 532–538, 2017
Traditional Ratemaking and Rates for Energy Efficiency Vary
Authors:   SPEER
Published: September 2016

This article surveys the array and effectiveness of traditional ratemaking techniques and ratemaking to support energy efficiency.1
Unmet Needs, Unwanted Persons: A Call for Expansion of Safe Haven Laws
Authors: Bruce Lori
Published: September 2016

Legislative strategies for reducing infant abandonment and neonaticide developed in response to a series of sensational cases that occurred in Texas in 1999. The media coverage of these cases implied that the incidence of the crime was increasing, and Texas legislators responded with a law permitting parents to anonymously surrender their newborn at designated locations such as hospitals. This was the first “safe haven” law. Interest peaked nationwide, and by 2008 all states had a similar version of the law. These laws can trigger rapid cessation of parental rights and a fast‐tracked adoption to a preapproved family, reflecting the legislators’ assumption that it is better to permit struggling mothers to leave their children with well‐intentioned strangers than to abandon the children or end their lives. These laws, however, suffer from several inadequacies.
Telos versus Praxis in Bioethics
Authors: Chambers Tod S.
Published: September 2016

The authors of “A Conceptual Model for the Translation of Bioethics Research and Scholarship” argue that bioethics must respond to institutional pressures by demonstrating that it is having an impact in the world. Any impact, the authors observe, must be “informed” by the goals of the discipline of bioethics. The concept of bioethics as a discipline is central to their argument. They begin by citing an essay that Daniel Callahan wrote in the first issue of Hastings Center Studies. Callahan argued in this 1973 piece that bioethics had yet to attain the status of a discipline, and he lauded the freedom of being able to define a new discipline. Callahan's essay shares with Mathews and colleague's a peculiarity: neither ever defines what it means to refer to something as a “discipline.” To define a discipline does mean attending to the intended end product of scholarly activity, so I concur with Mathews et al.’s focus on outcomes. But I am concerned that in their argument they confusingly entangle their understanding of an academic discipline's internal goals, its telos, with its potential to have an impact on the external world, its praxis. The confusion that this can bring exposes what I believe is a profound problem within bioethics, the discipline's peculiar and at times intellectually hazardous relationship with its institutional hosts.
Noninvasive tools and risk of clinically significant portal hypertension and varices in compensated cirrhosis: The “Anticipate” study
Authors: Abraldes Juan G. , Bureau Christophe , Stefanescu Horia , Augustin Salvador , Ney Michael , Blasco Hélène , Procopet Bogdan , Bosch Jaime , Genesca Joan , Berzigotti Annalisa ,   for the Anticipate Investigators
Published: September 2016

In patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD), the presence of clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) and varices needing treatment (VNT) bears prognostic and therapeutic implications. Our aim was to develop noninvasive tests‐based risk prediction models to provide a point‐of‐care risk assessment of cACLD patients. We analyzed 518 patients with cACLD from five centers in Europe/Canada with paired noninvasive tests (liver stiffness measurement [LSM] by transient elastography, platelet count, and spleen diameter with calculation of liver stiffness to spleen/platelet score [LSPS] score and platelet‐spleen ratio [PSR]) and endoscopy/hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement. Risk of CSPH, varices, and VNT was modeled with logistic regression. All noninvasive tests reliably identified patients with high risk of CSPH, and LSPS had the highest discrimination. LSPS values above 2.65 were associated with risks of CSPH above 80%. None of the tests identified patients with very low risk of all‐size varices, but both LSPS and a model combining TE and platelet count identified patients with very low risk (<5%) risk of VNT, suggesting that they could be used to triage patients requiring screening endoscopy. LSPS values of <1.33 were associated with a <5% risk of VNT, and 26% of patients had values below this threshold. LSM combined with platelet count predicted a risk <5% of VNT in 30% of the patients. Nomograms were developed to facilitate point‐of‐care risk assessment. Conclusion: A significant proportion of patients with a very high risk of CSPH, and a population with a very low risk of VNT can be identified with simple, noninvasive tests, suggesting that these can be used to individualize medical care. (Hepatology 2016;64:2173‐2184).
How the different material and shape of the blood collection tube influences the Concentrated Growth Factors production
Authors: Bonazza Veronica , Borsani Elisa , Buffoli Barbara , Castrezzati Stefania , Rezzani Rita , Rodella Luigi Fabrizio
Published: September 2016

Platelet concentrates, such as Concentrated Growth Factors (CGF), are autologous preparations obtained from the patient's own blood and rich in platelets, growth factors and cytokines involved in the key processes of tissue regeneration. These autologous concentrates differ in the way of preparation and also in the content of platelets, growth factors and leucocytes, as well as in the fibrin network architecture. So it is difficult to have a standardized product. The aim of the present study was to evaluate how the use of test tubes of different material, for blood collection, could influence the CGF production. Three different test tubes were used and the obtained CGFs were subjected to histomorphological and immunohistochemical analyses. Results showed that the tube material and shape influenced the CGF composition. In fact, according to the type of tube used, the obtained CGFs showed differences in morphology, in the fibrin network architecture and in blood cell localization and distribution.
Amino‐functionalized cotton fiber for enhanced adsorption of active brilliant red X‐3B from aqueous solution
Authors: Deng Hui , Ning JiaHong , Wang XiaoNing
Published: September 2016

An amino‐functionalized sorbent (ACF) was prepared by grafting amine group onto cotton fiber (CF) using tetraethylenepentamine (TEPA). The resulting composite was characterized using various instrumental techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) and pHpzc analysis. FTIR spectrum and pHpzc analysis illustrated the involvement of amine groups in the X‐3B sorption process. ACF sorbent was tested for its ability to remove X‐3B from an aqueous solution in batch experiments. The adsorption efficiency of ACF was 100% in comparison with 5.52% of raw cotton fiber when initial concentration of active brilliant red X‐3B was 30 mg/l. Results suggested that solution pH hardly affected the removal of X‐3B, and ACF remained stable sorption efficiency in the pH range of 3.0–12.0. High values of correlation coefficients indicated the adsorption kinetics could best described by the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic equation. The sorption isotherm of ACF fitted the Langmuir equilibrium model, with the maximum adsorption capacity of 270.27 mg/g at 293K. The obtained thermodynamic parameters showed that the adsorption of X‐3B onto the adsorbent was spontaneous and exothermic. The excellent regeneration performance provided strong evidence of the potential of ACF for technological applications of dye removal.
Fractal features of carbon–nickel composite thin films
Authors: Ţălu Ştefan , Bramowicz Miroslaw , Kulesza Slawomir , Dalouji Vali , Solaymani Shahram , Valedbagi Shahoo
Published: September 2016

This work analyses the three‐dimensional (3‐D) surface texture of carbon–nickel (C–Ni) films grown by radio frequency (RF) magnetron co‐sputtering on glass substrates. The C–Ni thin films were deposited under different deposition times, from 50 to 600 s, at room temperature. Atomic force microscopy was employed to characterize the 3‐D surface texture data in connection with the statistical, and fractal analyses. It has been found that up to 180 s the sputtering occurs in more metal content mode and in greater than 180 s it occurs in more non‐metal content mode. This behavior demonstrated a strong link between the structural and morphological properties of C–Ni composite films and facilitates a deeper understanding of structure/property relationships and surface defects in prepared samples. Furthermore, these findings can be applied to research on the mechanisms to prepare and control high‐quality C–Ni films.
Beyond Krabbe's disease: The potential contribution of galactosylceramidase deficiency to neuronal vulnerability in late‐onset synucleinopathies
Authors: Marshall Michael S. , Bongarzone Ernesto R.
Published: September 2016

New insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms behind late‐onset neurodegenerative diseases have come from unexpected sources in recent years. Specifically, the group of inherited metabolic disorders known as lysosomal storage diseases that most commonly affect infants has been found to have surprising similarities with adult neurodegenerative disorders. Most notable has been the identification of Gaucher's disease as a comorbidity for Parkinson's disease. Prompted by the recent identification of neuronal aggregates of α‐synuclein in another lysosomal storage disease, Krabbe's disease, we propose the idea that a similar connection exists between adult synucleinopathies and Krabbe's. Similarities between the two diseases, including the pattern of α‐synuclein aggregation in the brain of the twitcher mouse (the authentic murine model of Krabbe's disease), changes to lipid membrane dynamics, and possible dysfunction in synaptic function and macroautophagy, underscore a link between Krabbe's disease and late‐onset synucleinopathies. Silent GALC mutations may even constitute a risk factor for the development of Parkinson's in certain patients. More research is required to identify definitively any link and the validity of this hypothesis, but such a connection would prove invaluable for developing novel therapeutic targets for Parkinson's based on our current understanding of Krabbe's disease and for establishing new biomarkers for the identification of at‐risk patients. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synaptic failure: The achilles tendon of sphingolipidoses
Authors: Cantuti‐Castelvetri Ludovico , Bongarzone Ernesto R.
Published: September 2016

The presence of life‐threatening neurological symptoms in more than two‐thirds of lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) underscores how vulnerable the nervous system is to lysosomal failure. Neurological dysfunction in LSDs has historically been attributed to the disruption of neuronal and glial homeostasis resulting from the progressive jamming of the endosomal/lysosomal pathway. In neurons, a dysfunctional endosomal–lysosomal system can elicit dire consequences. Given that neurons are largely postmitotic after birth, one can clearly understand that the inability of these cells to proliferate obliterates any possibility of diluting stored lysosomal material by means of cellular division. At its most advanced stage, this situation constitutes a terminal factor in neuronal life, resulting in cell death. However, synaptic deficits in the absence of classical neuronal cell death appear to be common features during the early stages in many LSDs, particularly sphingolipidoses. In essence, failure of synapses to convey their messages, even without major structural damage to the neuronal bodies, is a form of physiological death. This concept of dying‐back neuropathology is highly relevant not only for understanding the dynamics of the neurological decline in these diseases, but, more importantly; it might also constitute an important target for molecular therapies to protect perhaps the “Achilles” point in the entire physiological architecture of the brain, thus avoiding an irreversible journey to neuronal demise. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Port‐to‐port delivery: Mobilization of toxic sphingolipids via extracellular vesicles
Authors: Scesa Giuseppe , Moyano Ana Lis , Bongarzone Ernesto R. , Givogri Maria I.
Published: September 2016

The discovery that most cells produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) and release them in the extracellular milieu has spurred the idea that these membranous cargoes spread pathogenic mechanisms. In the brain, EVs may have multifold and important physiological functions, from deregulating synaptic activity to promoting demyelination to changes in microglial activity. The finding that small EVs (exosomes) contain α‐synuclein and β‐amyloid, among other pathogenic proteins, is an example of this notion, underscoring their potential role in the brains of patients with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. Given that they are membranous vesicles, we speculate that EVs also have an intrinsic capacity to incorporate sphingolipids. In conditions under which these lipids are elevated to toxic levels, such as in Krabbe's disease and metachromatic leukodystrophy, EVs may contribute to spread disease from sick to healthy cells. In this essay, we discuss a working hypothesis that brain cells in sphingolipidoses clear some of the accumulated lipid material to attempt restoring cell homeostasis via EV secretion. We hypothesize that secreted sphingolipid‐loaded EVs shuttle pathogenic lipids to cells that are not intrinsically affected, contributing to establishing non‐cell‐autonomous defects. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuroimmune mechanisms in Krabbe's disease
Authors: Potter Gregory B. , Petryniak Magdalena A.
Published: September 2016

Neuroinflammation, activation of innate immune components of the nervous system followed by an adaptive immune response, is observed in most leukodystrophies and coincides with white matter pathology, disease progression, and morbidity. Despite this, there is a major gap in our knowledge of the contribution of the immune system to disease phenotype. Inflammation in Krabbe's disease has been considered a secondary effect, resulting from cell‐autonomous oligodendroglial cell death or myelin loss resulting from psychosine accumulation. However, recent studies have shown immune activation preceding clinical symptoms and white matter pathology. Moreover, the therapeutic effect underlying hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the only treatment for Krabbe's disease, has been demonstrated to occur via immunomodulation. This Review highlights recent advances in elaboration of the immune cascade involved in Krabbe's disease. Mechanistic insight into the inflammatory pathways participating in myelin and axon loss or preservation may lead to novel therapeutic approaches for this disorder. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Neuroscience Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hematopoietic Stem cell transplantation and lentiviral vector‐based gene therapy for Krabbe's disease: Present convictions and future prospects
Authors: Hu Peirong , Li Yedda , Nikolaishvili‐Feinberg Nana , Scesa Giuseppe , Bi Yanmin , Pan Dao , Moore Dominic , Bongarzone Ernesto R. , Sands Mark S. , Miller Ryan , Kafri Tal
Published: September 2016

Currently, presymtomatic hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell transplantation (HSPCT) is the only therapeutic modality that alleviates Krabbe's disease (KD)‐induced central nervous system damage. However, all HSPCT‐treated patients exhibit severe deterioration in peripheral nervous system function characterized by major motor and expressive language pathologies. We hypothesize that a combination of several mechanisms contribute to this phenomenon, including 1) nonoptimal conditioning protocols with consequent inefficient engraftment and biodistribution of donor‐derived cells and 2) insufficient uptake of donor cell‐secreted galactocerebrosidease (GALC) secondary to a naturally low expression level of the cation‐independent mannose 6‐phosphate‐receptor (CI‐MPR). We have characterized the effects of a busulfan (Bu) based conditioning regimen on the efficacy of HSPCT in prolonging twi mouse average life span. There was no correlation between the efficiency of bone marrow engraftment of donor cells and twi mouse average life span. HSPCT prolonged the average life span of twi mice, which directly correlated with the aggressiveness of the Bu‐mediated conditioning protocols. HSPC transduced with lentiviral vectors carrying the GALC cDNA under control of cell‐specific promoters were efficiently engrafted in twi mouse bone marrow. To facilitate HSPCT‐mediated correction of GALC deficiency in target cells expressing low levels of CI‐MPR, a novel GALC fusion protein including the ApoE1 receptor was developed. Efficient cellular uptake of the novel fusion protein was mediated by a mannose‐6‐phosphate‐independent mechanism. The novel findings described here elucidate some of the cellular mechanisms that impede the cure of KD patients by HSPCT and concomitantly open new directions to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of HSPCT protocols for KD. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Neuroscience Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biochemical, cell biological, pathological, and therapeutic aspects ofKrabbe's disease
Authors: Won Je‐Seong , Singh Avtar K. , Singh Inderjit
Published: September 2016

Krabbe's disease (KD; also calledgloboid cell leukodystrophy) is a genetic disorder involving demyelination of the central (CNS) and peripheral (PNS) nervous systems. The disease may be subdivided into three types, an infantile form, which is the most common and severe; a juvenile form; and a rare adult form. KD is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by a deficiency of galactocerebrosidase activity in lysosomes, leading to accumulation of galactoceramide and neurotoxic galactosylsphingosine (psychosine [PSY]) in macrophages (globoid cells) as well as neural cells, especially in oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells. This ultimately results in damage to myelin in both CNS and PNS with associated morbidity and mortality. Accumulation of PSY, a lysolipid with detergent‐like properties, over a threshold level could trigger membrane destabilization, leading to cell lysis. Moreover, subthreshold concentrations of PSY trigger cell signaling pathways that induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis, inflammation, endothelial/vascular dysfunctions, and neuronal and axonal damage. From the time the “psychosine hypothesis” was proposed, considerable efforts have been made in search of an effective therapy for lowering PSY load with pharmacological, gene, and stem cell approaches to attenuate PSY‐induced neurotoxicity. This Review focuses on the recent advances and prospective research for understanding disease mechanisms and therapeutic approaches for KD. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evidence for strain‐specific immunity to pneumonia in bighorn sheep
Authors: Cassirer E. Frances , Manlove Kezia R. , Plowright Raina K. , Besser Thomas E.
Published: September 2016

Transmission of pathogens commonly carried by domestic sheep and goats poses a serious threat to bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) populations. All‐age pneumonia die‐offs usually ensue, followed by asymptomatic carriage of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae by some of the survivors. Lambs born into these chronically infected populations often succumb to pneumonia, but adults are usually healthy. Surprisingly, we found that introduction of a new genotype (strain) of M. ovipneumoniae into a chronically infected bighorn sheep population in the Hells Canyon region of Washington and Oregon was accompanied by adult morbidity (100%) and pneumonia‐induced mortality (33%) similar to that reported in epizootics following exposure of naïve bighorn sheep. This suggests an immune mismatch occurred that led to ineffective cross‐strain protection. To understand the broader context surrounding this event, we conducted a retrospective analysis of M. ovipneumoniae strains detected in 14 interconnected populations in Hells Canyon over nearly 3 decades. We used multi‐locus sequence typing of DNA extracts from 123 upper respiratory tract and fresh, frozen, and formalin‐fixed lung samples to identify 5 distinct strains of M. ovipneumoniae associated with all‐age disease outbreaks between 1986 and 2014, a pattern consistent with repeated transmission events (spillover) from reservoir hosts. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the strain associated with the outbreak observed in this study was likely of domestic goat origin, whereas strains from other recent disease outbreaks probably originated in domestic sheep. Some strains persisted and spread across populations, whereas others faded out or were replaced. Lack of cross‐strain immunity in the face of recurrent spillovers from reservoir hosts may account for a significant proportion of the disease outbreaks in bighorn sheep that continue to happen regularly despite a century of exposure to domestic sheep and goats. Strain‐specific immunity could also complicate efforts to develop vaccines. The results of our study support existing management direction to prevent contacts that could lead to pathogen transmission from domestic small ruminants to wild sheep, even if the wild sheep have previously been exposed. Our data also show that under current management, spillover is continuing to occur, suggesting that enhanced efforts are indicated to avoid introducing new strains of M. ovipneumoniae into wild sheep populations. We recommend looking for new management approaches, such as clearing M. ovipneumoniae infection from domestic animal reservoirs in bighorn sheep range, and placing greater emphasis on existing strategies to elicit more active cooperation by the public and to increase vigilance on the part of resource managers. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Polymer Flooding: The Influence of Polymer Chemical Structure and the Porous Medium
Authors: Cardoso Oldemar Ribeiro , Lima Vidal Rosangela Regia , de Lima Bruna Vital , de Carvalho Balaban Rosangela
Published: September 2016

Polymer flooding is one of the chemical processes used to enhance the petroleum recovery. The injection of a polymer dissolved in water into a reservoir aims to increase the water viscosity, leading to an improvement of areal and vertical sweep efficiency of the oil that is located inside the pores of the rock formation. The polysaccharides (mainly xanthan gum) and polyacrylamides have been used extensively for this purpose by the oil industry, and several papers were published. However, it is not clear yet how to choose the best polymer for a specific rock formation. In this paper, four polyacrylamides with different structures were evaluated for polymer flooding and the results were correlated to the permeability of the sandstone's core employed. The polyacrylamides of higher average molar mass and higher radius of gyration were more effective in the enhancement of pressure inside the pore rock, especially with the decrease of rock permeability. Even in this case, no evidence of damage by polymer retention or adsorption on the pore rock was shown, indicating that the high polymers selected are good candidates to EOR.
Organophilization of Muscovite Mica for the Synthesis of High Molar Mass/Branched‐Polyethylene Blend Nanocomposites
Authors: Oliveira Patrícia L. , Morais Jacson S. , Oliveira Vital R. , de Fátima V. Marques Maria
Published: September 2016

Ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has excellent physical and mechanical properties. However, due to the high viscosity of UHMWPE it is difficult to process by conventional extrusion and injection since this polymer does not flow. One of the methodologies used to enable the processing of UHMWPE is by obtaining UHMWPE blends. In the present work, we have synthesized polymer blends directly in the polymerization reactor employing a mixture of catalysts, where one catalyst has a nickel center able to produce a low viscosity polyethylene, which would facilitate the processing of the material, and the other catalyst contain a titanium center responsible for the synthesis of UHMWPE. However, the incorporation of another polymer in the UHMWPE matrix can decrease its properties. Therefore, to prevent property losses, the incorporation of a nanoclay in the blend improves the properties of the final material. We used muscovite mica as nanofiller since it has higher aspect ratio than montmorillonite. Mica was modified by treatment with LiNO3/ammonium‐salt, resulting in a sharp increase of the interlayer distance. The obtained organomica was used as support for the co‐immobilization of Ti/Ni catalytic mixture to produce nanocomposites of the blend UHMWPE/branched‐PE/Mica.
Prospective follow‐up study of artificial urinary sphincter placement preserving the bulbospongiosus muscle
Authors: Collado Serra Argimiro , Domínguez‐Escrig José , Gómez‐Ferrer Álvaro , Batista Miranda Emilio , Rubio‐Briones José , Solsona Narbón Eduardo
Published: September 2016

Aims

Artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) AMS‐800® is an effective treatment for male stress urinary incontinence. The aim of the study was to assess the long‐term effectiveness and complications of artificial urinary sphincter placement preserving the bulbospongiosus muscle.

Methods

From April 2004 to March 2014, all consecutive male patients with urinary incontinence who underwent an AUS prosthesis insertion were prospectively evaluated. Surgical technique consisted of a perineal incision for cuff placement around the bulbous urethra preserving the bulbospongiosus muscle. Cure rate was defined as no pad use.

Results

A total of 82 consecutive patients (median age 68 years, range: 54‐78) were prospectively evaluated (median follow‐up 46 months, range: 12‐135). Bulbospongiosus muscles were preserved intact in all cases with no intraoperative complications. Postoperative complications were reported in 14 patients (1 urethral erosion). The overall cure rate (dry rate) was 76.8% and the median ICIQ‐UI score improved from 18 (range: 8‐21) to 4 (range: 0‐17) (P < 0.001). Artificial urinary sphincter survival rate was 95.5% (95%CI 89.4‐100%) at 24 months and 62.6% (95%CI 45.5‐79.6%) at 60 months. The mechanical failure rate was 6.3% (median 46.1 months, range: 22.2‐100.9) and urethral atrophy and/or inadequate compression rate was 9.5% (median 58.6 months, range: 39‐101.4 months).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that placement of AUS preserving the bulbospongiosus muscle is technically easy and efficient, reports excellent continence rates and lower urethral erosion rates, and could delay the onset of urethral atrophy compared to other surgical procedures used for sphincter placement.
Development of immobilized Sn4+ affinity chromatography material for highly selective enrichment of phosphopeptides
Authors: Lin Haizhu , Deng Chunhui
Published: September 2016

In this work, we first immobilized tin(IV) ion on polydopamine‐coated magnetic graphene (magG@PDA) to synthesize Sn4+‐immobilized magG@PDA (magG@PDA‐Sn4+) and successfully applied the material to highly selective enrichment of phosphopeptides. The material gathered the advantages of large surface area of graphene, superparamagnetism of Fe3O4, good hydrophilicity and biocompatibility of polydopamine, and strong interaction between Sn4+ and phosphopeptides. The enrichment performance of magG@PDA‐Sn4+ toward phosphopeptides from digested β‐casein at different concentrations, with and without added digested BSA was investigated and compared with magG@PDA‐Ti4+. The results showed high selectivity and sensitivity of the Sn4+‐IMAC material toward phosphopeptides, as good as the Ti4+‐IMAC material. Finally, magG@PDA‐Sn4+ was applied to the analysis of endogenous phosphopeptides from a real sample, human saliva, with both MALDI‐TOF MS and nano‐LC‐ESI‐MS/MS. The results indicated that the as‐synthesized Sn4+‐IMAC material not only has good enrichment performance, but also could serve as a supplement to the Ti4+‐IMAC material and expand the phosphopeptide coverage enriched by the single Ti4+‐IMAC material, demonstrating the broad application prospects of magG@PDA‐Sn4+ in phosphoproteome research.
A phase I dose-escalation study of TAK-733, an investigational oral MEK inhibitor, in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Adjei Alex A. , LoRusso Patricia , Ribas Antoni , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Pavlick Anna , Dy Grace K. , Zhou Xiaofei , Gangolli Esha , Kneissl Michelle , Faucette Stephanie , Neuwirth Rachel , Bózon Viviana
Published: September 2016

Purpose TAK-733, an investigational, selective, allosteric MEK1/2 inhibitor, has demonstrated antitumor effects against multiple cancer cell lines and xenograft models. This first-in-human study investigated TAK-733 in patients with solid tumors. Methods Patients received oral TAK-733 once daily on days 1–21 in 28-day treatment cycles. Adverse events (AEs) were graded using the Common Terminology Criteria for AEs version 3.0. Response was assessed using RECIST v1.1. Blood samples for TAK-733 pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (inhibition of ERK phosphorylation) were collected during cycle 1. Results Fifty-one patients received TAK-733 0.2–22 mg. Primary diagnoses included uveal melanoma (24 %), colon cancer (22 %), and cutaneous melanoma (10 %). Four patients had dose-limiting toxicities of dermatitis acneiform, plus fatigue and pustular rash in one patient, and stomatitis in one patient. The maximum tolerated dose was 16 mg. Common drug-related AEs included dermatitis acneiform (51 %), diarrhea (29 %), and increased blood creatine phosphokinase (20 %); grade ≥ 3 AEs were reported in 27 (53 %) patients. Median Tmax was 3 h; systemic exposure increased less than dose-proportionally over the dose range 0.2–22 mg. On day 21 maximum inhibition of ERK phosphorylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 46–97 % was seen in patients receiving TAK-733 ≥ 8.4 mg. Among 41 response-evaluable patients, 2 (5 %) patients with cutaneous melanoma (one with BRAF L597R mutant melanoma) had partial responses. Conclusions TAK-733 had a generally manageable toxicity profile up to the maximum tolerated dose, and showed the anticipated pharmacodynamic effect of sustained inhibition of ERK phosphorylation. Limited antitumor activity was demonstrated. Further investigation is not currently planned.
Preparation of Mangosteen Shell‐Derived Activated Carbon Via KOH Activation for Adsorptive Refining of Crude Biodiesel
Authors: Pangsupa Wilaiwan , Hunsom Mali
Published: September 2016

Mangosteen shell‐derived activated carbons (ACs) were prepared by potassium hydroxide (KOH) activation for refining crude biodiesel derived from the transesterification of waste cooking oil and methanol via an alkali catalyst. Effects of the KOH/char (w/w) ratio (0.50–1.50), activation temperature (500–900 °C), adsorption time (15–180 min) and dosage of activated carbon (3–11 g/L) on the efficiency of the adsorptive refining of biodiesel were explored. The AC prepared at a KOH/char (w/w) ratio of 1.25 at 800 °C exhibited the best ability to remove impurities contained in the crude biodiesel, and enhanced the purity of the biodiesel by up to 97.18 wt% at a dosage of 9 g/L and 120 min adsorption time. This was better than that refined by the conventional wet washing method (96.03 wt%). Equilibrium adsorption data fitted well with Freundlich isotherms, and the adsorption mechanism was controlled by the transport of impurities from the bulk solution to the surface of the AC.
Destabilization of Emulsion Formed During Aqueous Extraction of Peanut Oil: Synergistic Effect of Tween 20 and pH
Authors: Zhang Shao Bing , Wang Tong
Published: September 2016

To destabilize the emulsion formed during aqueous extraction processing (AEP) of peanuts, Tween and Span series surfactants (Tween 20, Tween 80, Span 20, and Span 80) were used alone or in combination to break the emulsion. Results indicate that only Tween surfactants had a pronounced demulsifying effect that was dependent on Tween concentration and system pH. When 1.2 wt% Tween 20 aqueous solution was used for oil extraction at pH 10.0, the highest free oil yield was achieved at 76.1 %, which was similar to the oil recovery of using proteases as a destabilization agent. The results obtained using a model emulsion system containing peanut oil and Tween 20/peanut protein isolates (PPI) showed that when Tween 20 and PPI coexisted in extraction medium at pH 10.0, the dynamic interfacial tension and droplet size distribution curves were very similar to those when Tween 20 was used alone, suggesting that Tween 20 dominated at the interface, instead of PPI. Destabilization of the model emulsions relied on three important factors: inclusion of Tween 20 at the initial mixing stage, high pH, and a gentle mixing speed. A synergistic destabilization mechanism of using Tween 20 at high pH during AEP was proposed. The discovery of Tween 20 as an effective demulsifier significantly contributes to the development of AEP of oilseeds.
Early adolescents' motivations to defend victims in school bullying and their perceptions of student–teacher relationships: A self‐determination theory approach
Authors: Jungert Tomas , Piroddi Barbara , Thornberg Robert
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate whether various dimensions of student–teacher relationships were associated with different types of motivation to defend victims in bullying and to determine the association between these types of motivations and various bystander behaviors in bullying situations among early adolescents in Italy. Data were collected from 405 Italian adolescents who completed a survey in their classroom. Results showed that warm student–teacher relationships were positively associated with defending victims and with autonomous motivation to defend victims. In contrast, conflictual student–teacher relationships were positively associated with passive bystanding and with extrinsic motivation to defend victims. Different forms of motivation to defend were found to be mediators between student–teacher relationship qualities and bystander behaviors in school bullying. Our findings suggest that teachers should build warm and caring student–teacher relationships to enhance students' autonomous motivation to defend victims of bullying as well as their inclination to defend the victims in practice.
Central nervous system infection following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Hanajiri Ryo , Kobayashi Takeshi , Yoshioka Kosuke , Watanabe Daisuke , Watakabe Kyoko , Murata Yutaka , Hagino Takeshi , Seno Yasushi , Najima Yuho , Igarashi Aiko , Doki Noriko , Kakihana Kazuhiko , Sakamaki Hisashi , Ohashi Kazuteru
Published: September 2016

Objective/background:

Here, we described the clinical characteristics and outcomes of central nervous system (CNS) infections occurring after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in a single institution over the previous 6 years.

Methods:

Charts of 353 consecutive allogeneic transplant recipients were retrospectively reviewed for CNS infection.

Results:

A total of 17 cases of CNS infection were identified at a median of 38 days (range, 10– 1028 days) after allo-HSCT. Causative pathogens were human herpesvirus-6 (n = 6), enterococcus (n = 2), staphylococcus (n = 2), streptococcus (n = 2), varicella zoster virus (n = 1), cytomegalovirus (n = 1), John Cunningham virus (n = 1), adenovirus (n = 1), and Toxoplasma gondii (n = 1). The cumulative incidence of CNS infection was 4.1% at 1 year and 5.5% at 5 years.

Conclusion:

Multivariate analysis revealed that high-risk disease status was a risk factor for developing CNS infection (p = .02), and that overall survival at 3 years after allo-HSCT was 33% in patients with CNS infection and 53% in those without CNS infection (p = .04).
Maternal and neonatal complications during pregnancy in women with epilepsy
Authors: Bansal R. , Jain G. , Kharbanda P. , Goyal M. , Suri V.
Published: September 2016

Epilepsy is the commonest serious neurological problem faced by obstetricians and gynaecologists. Epidemiological studies estimate epilepsy to complicate 0.3–0.7% of all pregnancies.1 2 The importance of epilepsy in pregnancy lies in the fact that many women with epilepsy (WWE) have to go through their pregnancy while taking antiepileptic (AED) drugs. Both the seizures and AEDs can have harmful effects on the mother as well the foetus. Thus, during pregnancy, the clinician faces dual challenge of controlling seizures as well as preventing teratogenicity of AEDs.1 In this review we discuss the possible impact of seizures as well as AEDs on mother as well as the child. We try to answer some of the commonest questions which are relevant to successful management of pregnancy and ensuring birth of a healthy baby.
Overview of gastric bypass surgery
Authors: Weledji Elroy Patrick
Published: September 2016

Highlights

Gastric bypass surgery is indicated for several clinical reasons including benign and malignant upper gastrointestinal tract pathologies. Any gastric resection or bypass procedure interferes with gastric emptying and the aim of reconstruction is to minimize the disturbance to the upper gastrointestinal physiology. Gastric bypass procedures induce early satiety, with or without concomitant impaired absorption of nutrients, and offer the best solution for morbid obesity. The long-term health benefits of gastric bypass surgery for morbid obesity must be found to outweigh the operative risks and side-effects of gastric bypass and thus patient selection is fundamental. The aim of the study was to review the indications, complications, sequelae and outcome of gastric bypass procedures.
Anorectal hemangioma – differential diagnosis of anal bleeding
Authors: Neto Walter Batista de Santana , Neto Giovanni Troiani , Cunha Carlos Magno Queiroz da , Brasil André Cavalcante , Feitosa José Ney Primo
Published: September 2016

Anorectal hemangioma is one of the rarest causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, but is often neglected and confused in the differential diagnosis. The clinical examination is a turning point for a correct diagnosis and management of patients, thus avoiding unnecessary procedures. The treatment of choice for this condition is surgical and intraoperative bleeding is the main complication of this therapy. The present case reports a 25-year old patient with a history of bleeding from the age of 13, being diagnosed with anorectal hemangioma, and surgically treated with resection of the affected segment and with wound synthesis by marsupialization, with a good progression postoperatively.