bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ambulatory cancer and US general population reference values and cutoff scores for the functional assessment of cancer therapy
Authors: Pearman Timothy , Yanez Betina , Peipert John , Wortman Katy , Beaumont Jennifer , Cella David
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) measures are commonly used in oncology research. Interest in their use for monitoring or screening is increasing. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT) is one of the most widely used HRQOL instruments. Consequently, oncology researchers and practitioners have an increasing need for reference values for the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General (FACT‐G) and its 7‐item rapid version, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–General 7 (FACT‐G7), to compare FACT scores across specific subgroups of patients in research trials and practice. The objectives of this study are to provide 1) reference values from a sample of the general US adult population and a sample of adults diagnosed with cancer and 2) cutoff scores for quality of life.

METHODS

A sample of the general US population (N = 1075) and a sample of patients with cancer from 12 studies (N = 5065) were analyzed. Cutoff scores were established using distribution‐ and anchor‐based methods. Mean values for the cancer sample were analyzed by performance status, cancer type, and disease status. Also, t tests and established criteria for meaningful differences were used to compare values.

RESULTS

FACT‐G and FACT‐G7 scores in the general US population sample and cancer sample were generally comparable. Among the sample of patients with cancer, FACT‐G and FACT‐G7 scores worsened with declining performance status and increasing disease status.

CONCLUSIONS

These data will aid interpretation of the magnitude and meaning of FACT scores, and allow for comparisons of scores across studies. Cancer 2014;120:2902–2909. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Energy efficient and robust allocation of interdependent tasks on mobile ad hoc computational grid
Authors: Shah Sayed Chhattan
Published: May 2014

A mobile ad hoc computational grid is a distributed computing infrastructure that allows mobile nodes to share computing resources in a mobile ad hoc environment. Compared to traditional distributed systems such as grids and clouds, resource allocation in mobile ad hoc computational grids is not straightforward because of node mobility, limited battery power and an infrastructure‐less network environment. The existing schemes are either based on a decentralized architecture that results in poor allocation decisions or assume independent tasks. This paper presents a scheme that allocates interdependent tasks and aims to reduce task completion time and the amount of energy consumed in transmission of data. This scheme comprises two key algorithms: resource selection and resource allocation. The resource selection algorithm is designed to select nodes that remain connected for a longer period, whereas the resource assignment or allocation algorithm is developed to allocate interdependent tasks to the nodes that are accessible at the minimum transmission power. The scheme is based on a hybrid architecture that results in effective allocation decisions, reduces the communication cost associated with the exchange of control information, and distributes the processing burden among the nodes. The paper also investigates the relationship between the data transfer time and transmission energy consumption and presents a power‐based routing protocol to reduce data transfer costs and transmission energy consumption. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Compensatory regulation of the size of the inner ear in response to excess induction of otic progenitors by fibroblast growth factor signaling
Authors: Zhang Jian , Wright Kevin D. , Mahoney Rogers Amanda A. , Barrett Molly M. , Shim Katherine
Published: May 2014

Background: The otic placode comprises the progenitors of the inner ear and the neurons that convey hearing and balance information to the brain. Transplantation studies in birds and amphibians demonstrate that when the otic placode is morphologically visible as a thickened patch of ectoderm, it is first committed to an otic fate. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling initiates induction of the otic placode, and levels of FGF signaling are fine‐tuned by the Sprouty family of antagonists of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. Results: Here, we examined the size of the otic placode and cup by combinatorial inactivation of the Sprouty1 and Sprouty2 genes. Interestingly, in a Sprouty gene dosage series, early enlargement of the otic placode was progressively restored to normal. Restoration of otic size was preceded by normal levels of FGF signaling, reduced cell proliferation and reduced cell death. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that excess otic placode cells, which form in response to increased FGF signaling, are not maintained in mammals. This suggests that growth plasticity exists in the mammalian otic placode and cup, and that FGF signaling may not be sufficient to induce the genetic program that maintains otic fate. Developmental Dynamics 243:1317–1327, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flushing sediment from reservoirs triggers forestation in the downstream reaches
Authors: Asaeda Takashi , Rashid Md H. , Sanjaya Henegama Liyanage Kelum
Published: May 2014

It was assumed that sediment release from a reservoir would trigger forestation and change the spatial pattern of tree recruitment in the downstream. This study tested these hypotheses by observation on a downstream sandbar of the Kurobe River. Prior to sediment release, Elaeagnus umbellata and Salix gilgiana were the most abundant tree species (33% and 64% of the total tree population) on the bar. The former colonized on elevated areas, whereas the latter mostly grew along the edges of river channels. After 2008 and 2009 sediment releases, a thick layer of fine sediment accumulated in active river channels and on low‐elevated areas of the bar. The particle size of the accumulated sediment was significantly lower (p < 0·01) and the moisture content was higher (p < 0·01) than in the underlying substrate. Total nitrogen, carbon and phosphorus concentrations of the accumulated sediment were higher than in the covered portions. After sediment release, a seedling flushing of both species occurred on the bar where 87% was composed of S. gilgiana and the remaining 13% was of E. umbellata. Although most of the S. gilgiana seedlings recruited on low‐lying areas, numerous individuals also grew on elevated margins of the channels and on areas dominated by E. umbellata. The accumulated sediment made changes in the substrate, which were favourable for the recruitment and spread of S. gilgiana. This study suggests that an alternative to sediment flushing for reservoir maintenance should be sought or the impacts on downstream environment should carefully be considered before an extensive sediment flushing operation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relevance of Dispersion Interactions in the Germylidyne and Stannylidyne Complexes of Manganese: Structure and Bonding‐Energy Analysis
Authors: Pandey Krishna K. , Patidar Pankaj , Vishwakarma Ravi
Published: May 2014

Density functional theory (DFT) and dispersion‐corrected DFT calculations were used to study the nature of Mn≡E bonds in the cationic manganese‐ylidyne complexes trans‐[H(dmpe)2Mn≡E(Mes)]+ (E = Ge, Sn) and [H(dmpe)2Mn≡Sn(C6H3‐2,6‐Mes2)]+ by using BP86, PBE, and PW91 functionals. The calculated geometrical parameters of the stannylidyne complexes are in good agreement with the available experimental values. Significant non‐covalent interactions appear between the metal fragment and the ligands in the studied complexes, which were determined by the QTAIM‐defined topological analysis. The electronic structure of the Mn≡E bonds was examined by Voronoi deformation density (VDD) charges and Nalewazskii–Mrozek bond orders. The overall electronic charge transfers from [E(Mes)] or [E(C6H3‐2,6‐Mes2)] to [H(dmpe)2Mn] fragment. The energy decomposition analysis shows that the Mn≡Ge bond has more covalent character than ionic, and the percentage of ionic character increases from Ge to Sn. The bond dissociation energy at the DFT/BP86 level for the Mn≡Ge bond (67.6 kcal/mol) is larger than that of the Mn≡Sn bond (55.8 kcal/mol). The D3(BJ) dispersion interactions between metal fragment and EMes ligands add nearly 17.0 kcal/mol to the Mn≡E bond dissociation energies. The dispersion energy contribution increases with the bulkiness of the ligand substituent. The distortion of the Mn–E–C bond angle has been discussed in terms of a Jahn–Teller distortion.
5‐Methylthiophene‐2,3‐dithiolene Transition Metal Complexes
Authors: Neves Ana I. S. , Santos Isabel C. , Coutinho Joana T. , Pereira Laura C. J. , Henriques Rui T. , Lopes Elsa B. , Alves H. , Almeida Manuel , Belo Dulce
Published: May 2014

Transition metal complexes based on the new ligand 5‐methylthiophene‐2,3‐dithiolate (α‐mtpdt) and Au, Ni, Fe, Co, Cu Pt and Pd were prepared as tetraalkylammonium and tetraarylphosphonium salts and characterised by cyclic voltammetry, X‐ray diffraction, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and magnetic susceptibility measurements. Except for the Cu complex, which forms a four‐metal cluster [Cu4(α‐mtpdt)3]2–, the metals form complexes of the general formula [M(α‐mtpdt)2]. With Au, Ni and Fe, the complexes are directly obtained from the synthesis as monoanionic salts, and the isostructural crystal structures of [nBu4N][Ni(α‐mtpdt)2] and [nBu4N][Au(α‐mtpdt)2] were solved by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. For M = Co, Pt and Pd, both monoanionic and dianionic salts were obtained, and the crystal structures of [Ph4As]2[Co(α‐mtpdt)2] and [Ph4As]2[Pd(α‐mtpdt)2] were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The Co compound presents a rare tetrahedral coordination geometry. The oxidation of the monoanionic Ni and Au complexes with iodine leads to stable neutral complexes, which are fairly soluble in common organic solvents such as acetonitrile and dichloromethane. The crystal structure of [Ni(α‐mtpdt)2] was solved by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The electrical conductivities of the neutral Ni and Au complexes as polycrystalline compressed pellets are typical of a semiconductor; the room‐temperature conductivities are 5.2 × 10–7 and 8.7 × 10–5 S cm–1, and the activation energies are 325 and 287 meV, respectively.
Progress in Catalytic Asymmetric Protonation
Authors: Oudeyer Sylvain , Brière Jean‐François , Levacher Vincent
Published: May 2014

Enantioselective protonation represents an appealing approach for the construction of nonracemic chiral tertiary carbon centres, frequently found in a large range of bio‐relevant organic compounds. The development of efficient catalytic processes has hitherto been regarded as a challenging goal for the synthetic chemist. Significant developments in catalytic enantioselective protonation (EP) that have been emerging over the last few years (2009–2013) are presented in this microreview. These include not only catalytic EP processes from preformed enol derivatives and useful tandem Michael addition/protonation sequences, but also unprecedented catalytic cascade reactions involving enantioselective protonation as a crucial stereo‐determining step. Here, special attention is paid to the scope and limitations of these new catalytic EP processes, while valuable mechanistic insights into the catalytic cycles and into the key enantioselective protonation steps are provided.
Paradigm shift for vaccine manufacturing facilities: The next generation of flexible, modular facilities
Authors: Pralong Alain , Levine Howard L. , Lilja Jan , Gaasvik Åsa , Hummel Hans
Published: May 2014

Most vaccines today are manufactured using technologies developed 40–50 years ago, often in facilities of similar antiquity, resulting in complex, uncharacterized products with relatively high production costs. As a result, the vaccine industry today is struggling to meet the challenges of improving existing products and developing new vaccines for unmet medical needs at an economical cost. The unique nature of each vaccine manufacturing process makes it difficult to develop standard platform processes and facility designs similar to those used in antibody manufacturing. While no single facility or process can meet the requirements of all vaccines, we have developed a new paradigm for vaccine manufacturing facilities which exploit the emergence and full acceptance of single use technologies, modern engineering and design concepts, and capabilities of modular construction. Modularization of facility design and construction and the application of single use technologies permit rapid construction and commissioning of vaccine facilities while significantly reducing the capital and operational expenditures required for such facilities. Using inactivated polio vaccine as a model, we present a new design concept which can be rapidly deployed in different locations adapted to market and/or tender strategies without incurring the risk or cost of excess process architecture and drug product changes.
Suicide risk in long‐term care facilities: a systematic review
Authors: Mezuk Briana , Rock Andrew , Lohman Matthew C. , Choi Moon
Published: May 2014

Objective

Suicide risk is highest in later life; however, little is known about the risk of suicide among older adults in long‐term care facilities (e.g., nursing homes and assisted living facilities). The goal of this paper is to review and synthesize the descriptive and analytic epidemiology of suicide in long‐term care settings over the past 25 years.

Methods

Four databases (PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Web of Knowledge, and EBSCOHost Academic Search Complete) were searched for empirical studies of suicide risk in nursing homes, assisted living, and other residential facilities from 1985 to 2013. Of the 4073 unique research articles identified, 37 were selected for inclusion in this review.

Results

Of the included reports, 21 were cross‐sectional, 8 cohort, 3 qualitative, and 5 intervention studies. Most studies indicate that suicidal thoughts (active and passive) are common among residents (prevalence in the past month: 5–33%), although completed suicide is rare. Correlates of suicidal thoughts among long‐term care residents include depression, social isolation, loneliness, and functional decline. Most studies examined only individual‐level correlates of suicide, although there is suggestive evidence that organizational characteristics (e.g., bed size and staffing) may also be relevant.

Conclusions

Existing research on suicide risk in long‐term care facilities is limited but suggests that this is an important issue for clinicians and medical directors to be aware of and address. Research is needed on suicide risk in assisted living and other non‐nursing home residential settings, as well as the potential role of organizational characteristics on emotional well‐being for residents. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Face‐ and Regioselectivity in Electrophilic Phenylsulfenylation of 7‐tert‐Butoxybicyclo[2.2.1]hepta‐2,5‐dienes
Authors: Uno Hidemitsu , Yoshino Masaki , Seike Aya , Mori Shigeki , Nakae Takahiro , Okujima Tetsuo
Published: May 2014

Electrophilic phenylsulfenylation of syn‐7‐tert‐butoxy‐2‐phenylsulfonyl‐ bicyclo[2.2.1] hepta‐2,5‐diene with phenylsulfenyl chloride yielded a mixture of three simple adducts, two of which were derived by the endo face attack of the phenylsulfenyl cation. In the analogous reaction with the anti derivative, only one adduct with the exo phenylsulfanyl group at the nearer carbon was obtained. This product was derived by the attack of the phenylsulfenyl cation from the exo face followed by the endo attack of a chloride anion at the carbon opposite to the phenylsulfonyl group. The similar reaction of 7‐tert‐butoxybicyclo[2.2.1]hepta‐2,5‐diene itself underwent no Wager–Meerwein‐type rearrangement or transannular reaction, and simple adducts were formed in good combined yield. The combined yield of the products reacted at the syn double bond was ca. 80%.
Unique presentation of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm: a single‐center experience and literature review
Authors: Paluri Ravi , Nabell Lisle , Borak Samuel , Peker Deniz
Published: May 2014

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and highly aggressive hematological malignancy derived from precursors of plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Very few cases of BPDCN have been described with lack of skin manifestations at the time of diagnosis. Here we report two rare non‐cutaneous presentations of BPDCN without obvious skin lesions at our institution and also the literature review. Our first patient had a unique presentation of BPDCN confined to the sinonasal region with central nervous system involvement. The second patient we report is also atypical with regard to widespread disease that uncharacteristically spared the skin and bone marrow. BPDCN is a rare hematological malignancy involving immature plasmacytoid dendritic cells. It poses a diagnostic challenge requiring multidisciplinary approach to manage this disease. It is important to identify effective therapies for both cutaneous and non‐cutaneous presentations of BPDCN, since most cases are uniformly fatal with conventional chemotherapy alone. High‐dose induction therapy based on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) regimens, to achieve complete remission followed by allo‐hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from related or unrelated donors is recommended to improve long‐term survival in these patients. Larger scale studies are warranted to understand the pathophysiology of the disease and the important prognostic indicators for optimal management. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicity of imine–iminium dyes and pigments: electron transfer, radicals, oxidative stress and other physiological effects
Authors: Kovacic Peter , Somanathan Ratnasamy
Published: May 2014

Although conjugation is well known as an important contributor to color, there is scant recognition concerning involvement of imine and iminium functions in the physiological effects of this class of dyes and pigments. The group includes the dyes methylene blue, rhodamine, malachite green, fuchsin, crystal violet, auramine and cyanins, in addition to the pigments consisting of pyocyanine, phthalocyanine and pheophytin. The physiological effects consist of both toxicity and beneficial aspects. The unifying theme of electron transfer–reactive oxygen species–oxidative stress is used as the rationale in both cases. Toxicity is frequently prevented or alleviated by antioxidants. The apparent dichotomy of methylene blue action as both oxidant and antioxidant is rationalized based on similar previous cases. This mechanistic approach may have practical benefit. This review is important in conveying, for the first time, a unifying mechanism for toxicity based on electron transfer–reactive oxygen species–oxidative stress arising from imine–iminium. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiotoxicity evaluation of anthracyclines in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Han Ying , Zhang Jing‐pu , Qian Jian‐qin , Hu Chang‐qin
Published: May 2014

Drug‐induced cardiotoxicity is a leading factor for drug withdrawals, and limits drug efficacy and clinical use. Therefore, new alternative animal models and methods for drug safety evaluation have been given great attention. Anthracyclines (ANTs) are widely prescribed anticancer agents that have a cumulative dose relationship with cardiotoxicity. We performed experiments to study the toxicity of ANTs in early developing zebrafish embryos, especially their effects on the heart. LC50 values for daunorubicin, pirarubicin, doxorubicin (DOX), epirubicin and DOX‐liposome at 72 h post‐fertilization were 122.7 μM, 111.9 μM, 31.2 μM, 108.3 μM and 55.8 μM, respectively. At the same time, zebrafish embryos were exposed to ANTs in three exposure stages and induced incomplete looping of the heart tube, pericardia edema and bradycardia in a dose‐dependent manner, eventually leading to death. DOX caused the greatest heart defects in the treatment stages and its liposome reduced the effects on the heart, while daunorubicin produced the least toxicity. Genes and proteins related to heart development were also identified to be sensitive to ANT exposure and downregulated by ANTs. It revealed ANTs could disturb the heart formation and development. ANTs induced cardiotoxicity in zebrafish has similar effects in mammalian models, indicating that zebrafish may have a potential value for assessment of drug‐induced developmental cardiotoxicity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A trivalent approach for determining in vitro toxicology: Examination of oxime K027
Authors: Prado Adriana , Petroianu Georg A. , Lorke Dietrich E. , Chambers Jeremy W.
Published: May 2014

Unforeseen toxic effects contribute to compound attrition during preclinical evaluation and clinical trials. Consequently, there is a need to correlate in vitro toxicity to in vivo and clinical outcomes quickly and effectively. We propose an expedited evaluation of physiological parameters in vitro that will improve the ability to predict in vivo toxicity of potential therapeutics. By monitoring metabolism, mitochondrial physiology and cell viability, our approach provides insight to the extent of drug toxicity in vitro. To implement our approach, we used human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) and neuroblastoma cells (SH‐SY5Y) to monitor hepato‐ and neurotoxicity of the experimental oxime K027. We utilized a trivalent approach to measure metabolism, mitochondrial stress and induction of apoptosis in 96‐well formats. Any change in these three areas may suggest drug‐induced toxicity in vivo. K027 and pralidoxime, an oxime currently in clinical use, had no effect on glycolysis or oxygen consumption in HepG2 and SH‐SY5Y cells. Similarly, these oximes did not induce oxidant generation nor alter mitochondrial membrane potential. Further, K027 and pralidoxime failed to activate effector caspases, and these oximes did not alter viability. The chemotherapeutic agent, docetaxel, negatively affected metabolism, mitochondrial physiology and viability. Our studies present a streamlined high‐throughput trivalent approach for predicting toxicity in vitro, and this approach reveals that K027 has no measurable hepatotoxicity or neurotoxicity in vitro, which correlates with their in vivo data. This approach could eliminate toxic drugs from consideration for in vivo preclinical evaluation faster than existing toxicity prediction panels and ultimately prevent unnecessary experimentation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stem cell responses to nanotopography
Authors: Park Siyeon , Im Gun‐Il
Published: May 2014

Cells interact with various nanoscaled topographical and biochemical cues in their cellular macromolecular environment. Nanotopography recreates or mimic the cellular macromolecular environment in vitro. The influence of material surface topography on the behavior of adherent cells has been studied. Current techniques enable various kinds of nanopatterned surface to be generated and applied to cells. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of nanotopography and its surface patterns, and introduce nanotopography effects on cell behavior including cell attachment, proliferation, and cell differentiation with particular emphasis on musculoskeletal regeneration. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1238–1245, 2015.
Osteogenic differentiation of umbilical cord and adipose derived stem cells onto highly porous 45S5 Bioglass®‐based scaffolds
Authors: Detsch Rainer , Alles Sonja , Hum Jasmin , Westenberger Peter , Sieker Frank , Heusinger Dominik , Kasper Cornelia , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: May 2014

In the context of bone tissue engineering (BTE), combinations of bioactive scaffolds with living cells are investigated to optimally yield functional bone tissue for implantation purposes. Bioactive glasses are a class of highly bioactive, inorganic materials with broad application potential in BTE strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate bioactive glass (45S5 Bioglass®) samples of composition: 45 SiO2, 24.5 CaO, 24.5 Na2O, and 6 P2O5 (in wt%) as scaffold materials for mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Pore architecture of the scaffolds as well as cell behavior in the three‐dimensional environment was evaluated by several methods. Investigations concerned the osteogenic cell attachment, growth and differentiation of adipose tissue derived MSC (adMSC) compared with MSC from human full term umbilical cord tissues (ucMSC) on porous Bioglass®‐based scaffolds over a cultivation period of 5 weeks. Differences in lineage‐specific osteogenic differentiation of adMSC and ucMSC on Bioglass® samples were demonstrated. The investigation led to positive results in terms of cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation of MSC onto Bioglass®‐based scaffolds confirming the relevance of these matrices for BTE applications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1029–1037, 2015.
Ab initio path‐integral calculations of kinetic and equilibrium isotope effects on base‐catalyzed RNA transphosphorylation models
Authors: Wong Kin‐Yiu , Xu Yuqing , York Darrin M.
Published: May 2014

Detailed understandings of the reaction mechanisms of RNA catalysis in various environments can have profound importance for many applications, ranging from the design of new biotechnologies to the unraveling of the evolutionary origin of life. An integral step in the nucleolytic RNA catalysis is self‐cleavage of RNA strands by 2′‐O‐transphosphorylation. Key to elucidating a reaction mechanism is determining the molecular structure and bonding characteristics of transition state. A direct and powerful probe of transition state is measuring isotope effects on biochemical reactions, particularly if we can reproduce isotope effect values from quantum calculations. This article significantly extends the scope of our previous joint experimental and theoretical work in examining isotope effects on enzymatic and nonenzymatic 2′‐O‐transphosphorylation reaction models that mimic reactions catalyzed by RNA enzymes (ribozymes), and protein enzymes such as ribonuclease A (RNase A). Native reactions are studied, as well as reactions with thio substitutions representing chemical modifications often used in experiments to probe mechanism. Here, we report and compare results from eight levels of electronic‐structure calculations for constructing the potential energy surfaces in kinetic and equilibrium isotope effects (KIE and EIE) computations, including a “gold‐standard” coupled‐cluster level of theory [CCSD(T)]. In addition to the widely used Bigeleisen equation for estimating KIE and EIE values, internuclear anharmonicity and quantum tunneling effects were also computed using our recently developed ab initio path‐integral method, that is, automated integration‐free path‐integral method. The results of this work establish an important set of benchmarks that serve to guide calculations of KIE and EIE for RNA catalysis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐Resolution Melting Analysis as a Developed Method for Genotyping the PD Susceptibility Loci in LRRK2 Gene
Authors: Jiang Enzhu , Li Fengrui , Jing Chenchen , Li Pei , Cui Honggang , Wang Baojie , Ding Mei , Pang Hao
Published: May 2014

Background

Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported as a highly relevant point for the mechanisms of Parkinson's disease (PD). The invention of saturating dye makes it possible to identify heteroduplex DNA without redistribution during melting, which allows using high‐resolution melting (HRM) to detect SNPs. However, the HRM analysis for detection of those SNPs associated with PD was rarely applied.

Methods

Two SNPs, G2385R and R1628P, located in leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene were individually and multiplexedly genotyped using HRM analysis. The sequence variant observed in unexpected HRM curves was confirmed by DNA sequencing.

Results

HRM analysis identified successfully all genotypes both on R1628P and G2385R loci. The unexpected HRM curves appeared in R1628P amplicon generated from combinations of R1628P and rs11176013 loci. A multiplexed HRM assay that genotyped R1628P, rs11176013, and G2385R loci was efficiently established.

Conclusions

The present HRM assay is a reliable and rapid method for genotyping R1628P and G2385R loci in LRRK2 gene, and multiplex HRM analysis results in high throughput and has the potential to facilitate a wide range of genotyping studies on PD susceptibility genes.
A Simple Synthetic Method of a 1,3,5‐Triazine UV Absorbent CGL‐479 and Its Characterization
Authors: Li Lei , Mang You , Jin Di , Chen Li‐gong
Published: May 2014

As a novel ultraviolet (UV) absorbent with excellent performance in UVA section (320 ~ 400 nm), 2‐{2‐hydroxy‐4‐[(octyloxycarbonyl)ethylideneoxy]phenyl}‐4,6‐Bis(4‐biphenylyl)‐1,3,5‐triazine (CGL‐479) was synthesized in a simple method with a total yield of 45.3% in four steps. Its outstanding UV absorption capability (λmax = 326 nm, εmax = 4.15 × 104 L•mol−1•cm−1), high thermostability [T5 (the temperature of losing 5% in weight) = 385 °C], and compatibility with polymer materials make it a potential substitute of the traditional UV absorbents.
The critical role of peritoneal cytology in the staging of gastric cancer: An evidence‐based review
Authors: De Andrade James P. , Mezhir James J.
Published: May 2014

Positive peritoneal cytology (Cyt+) is an important staging tool for patients with locally advanced gastric cancer. The objective of this review is to evaluate the current literature regarding cytology evaluation in patients with gastric cancer and to provide recommendations on the inclusion of this powerful prognosticator in patients with this disease. A literature search was performed for recent and pertinent studies evaluating peritoneal cytology in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma. Peritoneal cytology as the only evidence for M1 disease is present in up to 10% of patients with locally advanced gastric cancer; survival in the setting of Cyt+ is dismal when gastrectomy is the first line of therapy. Improved survival is associated with response to chemotherapy indicated by conversion to negative cytology, good performance status, and antral tumors. Highly select patients with Cyt+ treated with gastrectomy show improved survival in only some of the available studies. There are high quality studies that support the routine practice of peritoneal cytology evaluation in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer. The role of gastrectomy remains unclear in patients with Cyt+ and clinical trials are needed to define the best treatment option for this select group of patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 110:291–297. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular dynamics simulation study of glass transition in hydrated Nafion
Authors: Ozmaian M. , Naghdabadi R.
Published: May 2014

The thermal transition of Nafion is studied using a molecular dynamics simulation through a chemically realistic model. Static and dynamic properties of polymer melts with different water contents are investigated over a wide range of temperatures to obtain viscometric and calorimetric glass transition temperatures. The effect of cooling rate of the simulation on the glass transition of the hydrated polymer is also examined within the well‐known Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) equation. Variation of relaxation times versus temperature shows a fragile‐to‐strong transition. The hydration level has a significant impact on the static and dynamic properties of the polymer chains and water molecules confined in nanometric spaces between polymer chains. The results of this study are useful to predict the behavior of Nafion for various applications including fuel cells, sensors, actuators, and shape memory devices at different temperatures. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 907–915
Sonographic dynamic assessment of lung injury in a child with hypoplastic left heart syndrome undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Biasucci Daniele G. , Ricci Zaccaria , Conti Giorgio , Cogo Paola
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Performed for many years in clinical settings, pleural and lung ultrasound (PLUS) has emerged to be an invaluable tool to diagnose underlying conditions of respiratory failure, to monitor disease progression and to ensure appropriate therapeutic intervention. PLUS basically relies on the analysis of two prevalent ultrasound artefacts: A‐lines and B‐lines. A‐lines are hyperechoic reverberation artefacts of the pleural line. A‐lines combined with lung sliding show that lungs are well aerated. B‐lines are vertical hyperechoic reverberation artefacts arising from pleural line extending to the bottom of the screen. The prevalence of B‐lines indicates a pathologic parenchyma. Since PLUS is readily available, easily affordable, and biologically non‐invasive, it is especially suitable for bedside clinical care in critically ill and unstable adult patients. Several authors have recently proposed PLUS for application in critically ill neonates and children. We report a case in which PLUS was used to clinically monitor a complex lung lesion during treatment of a child with congenital heart disease suffering from severe lung injury.

Case Description

A 1‐year‐old male with hypoplastic left heart syndrome underwent bidirectional Glenn procedure and systemic‐to‐left pulmonary artery shunt for heart palliation. After surgery, he developed a severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and extra‐corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment was started. PLUS was performed daily to monitor the disease's progression and response to treatment during lung rest. As B‐lines were decreasing and A‐lines were becoming visible, we were able to monitor the improving aeration of the injured lung. The ultrasound showed high consistency with traditional imaging.

Discussion

Due to its non‐ionizing nature, low cost, easy availability, easy repeatability and real‐time results, PLUS is a feasible and beneficial bedside imaging technique for critically ill and unstable adult and pediatric patients. A reliable monitoring of ongoing treatments is certainly helpful to provide appropriate intervention, correctly schedule chest X‐ray and CT‐scan, and optimize ECMO weaning. The present case suggests that PLUS may be a successful and useful tool for monitoring lung diseases in children with CHD with severe post‐operative complex lung injury. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:n–n. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biliary Excretion of Glycyrrhetinic Acid: Glucuronide‐Conjugate Determination Following a Pharmacokinetic Study of Rat Bile
Authors: Lu Yang , Jing Jing , Ren Weichao , Zhu Jing , Qiu Zhixia , Li Ning , Li Xiaonan , Zhao Di , Parekh Harendra S. , Chen Xijing
Published: May 2014

Liquorice is a commonly prescribed herb in traditional Chinese medicine with the primary constituent, glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) responsible for the toxic effects arising from its chronic consumption. Hepatic transformation and biliary excretion of GA are significant and well‐documented pharmacokinetic pathways in humans, while glucuronide conjugates are the major identified metabolites. Here we report the role of bile in GA bioconversion in rats; this being achieved following intravenous administration of GA to Sprague–Dawley rats at a dose of 2 mg/kg with bile fluid analyzed for 3 h post‐injection using HPLC. The maximum concentration of glucuronides was detected about 30 min post‐administration, while the cumulative biliary excretion of glucuronides after 3 h was found to be 63.6 ± 6.4%. Our findings indicate a relatively high rate of biliary excretion for GA via the formation of glucuronide conjugates, and as a result of these findings, glucuronidation can be firmly regarded as a primary detoxification pathway for GA in rats. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
α‐Glucosidase Inhibitors from the Stems of Embelia ribes
Authors: Dang Phu Hoang , Nguyen Hai Xuan , Nguyen Nhan Trung , Le Hanh Ngoc Thi , Nguyen Mai Thanh Thi
Published: May 2014

From the ethyl acetate extract of the stems of Embelia ribes (Myrsinaceae), a new alkenylresorcinol, embeliphenol A (1), together with 11 known compounds have been isolated. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data. All compounds possessed significant α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity in a concentration‐dependent manner, except for 2 and 9. Compounds 1, 3–6, 8, and 12 showed more potent inhibitory activity, with IC50 values ranging from 10.4 to 116.7 μM, than that of a positive control acarbose (IC50, 214.5 μM). Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficacy of Mechanically Removing Nonnative Predators from a Desert Stream
Authors: Propst D. L. , Gido K. B. , Whitney J. E. , Gilbert E. I. , Pilger T. J. , Monié A. M. , Paroz Y. M. , Wick J. M. , Monzingo J. A. , Myers D. M.
Published: May 2014

Native fish faunas throughout the American Southwest have declined dramatically in the past century, mainly a consequence of habitat alteration and alien species introductions. We initiated this 6‐year study to evaluate the efficacy of mechanical removal of nonnative predaceous rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, brown trout Salmo trutta, yellow bullhead Ameiurus natalis and smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu from an open 4.6‐km reach of West Fork Gila River in southwest New Mexico, USA. Removal efforts involved intensive sampling with a 10‐ to 12‐person crew using backpack electrofishers and seines to capture fish over a 4‐ to 5‐day period each year. Additionally, two reference sites were sampled with similar methods to compare temporal changes in species mass in the absence of a removal effort. Results were mixed. Mass of yellow bullhead, rainbow trout and brown trout declined in the removal reach from 2007 through 2012, but there was no change in smallmouth bass. Concurrently, mass of Rainbow trout, yellow bullhead and smallmouth bass did not change at reference sites, but brown trout mass declined, indicating factors other than removal were driving abundance of brown trout. Occurrence of several large flathead catfish Pylodictis olivaris in the removal reach in 2012 changed what would have been a decline in overall nonnative mass to no change over the course of the study. Spikedace Meda fulgida was the only native species positively responding to predator removal. Results of this study suggest that with moderate effort and resources applied systematically, mechanical removal can benefit some native fish species, but movement of problem species from surrounding areas into removal reaches necessitates continued control efforts. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laser irradiation effect on carbon overcoat for HAMR application
Authors: Ji Rong , Ma Yansheng , Shakerzadeh Maziar , Seet Hang Li , Hu Jiang Feng
Published: May 2014

Heat‐assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) applies a laser beam to heat the disk magnetic recording unit in a hard drive. It lowers the coercivity of the recording material temporarily before data writing and thus overcomes the superparamagnetic limit. This approach can largely increase the storage density of hard disk drives. To apply it to current hard disk drive, all data recording component including carbon overcoats on hard disk surfaces should have high thermal stability because any degradation or film diffusion may affect the drive performance. To explore HAMR application suitable carbon overcoats, this paper studies the HAMR laser effect on different hard disk carbon overcoats and discusses the related material property change mechanism. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterizations, structure and optical properties of ZnWO4:Eu nanorods under high temperature
Authors: Dai R. C. , Wang Z. P. , Zhang Z. M. , Ding Z. J.
Published: May 2014

ZnWO4:Eu nanorods were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD and Raman spectroscopy. The optical properties were investigated by UV–vis and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The temperature‐dependent structure and optical properties of ZnWO4:Eu nanorods have been investigated. It was found that temperature‐induced monoclinic phase to molten state transition occurred at 1573 K. The ZnWO4 intrinsic luminescence and Eu3+ emission intensities decreased rapidly with the increase of temperature. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Update of the International Society of Sexual Medicine's Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Premature Ejaculation (PE)
Authors: Althof Stanley E. , McMahon Chris G. , Waldinger Marcel D. , Serefoglu Ege Can , Shindel Alan W. , Adaikan P. Ganesan , Becher Edgardo , Dean John , Giuliano Francois , Hellstrom Wayne J.G. , Giraldi Annamaria , Glina Sidney , Incrocci Luca , Jannini Emmanuele , McCabe Marita , Parish Sharon , Rowland David , Segraves R. Taylor , Sharlip Ira , Torres Luiz Otavio
Published: May 2014

Introduction

In 2009, the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) convened a select panel of experts to develop an evidence-based set of guidelines for patients suffering from lifelong premature ejaculation (PE). That document reviewed definitions, etiology, impact on the patient and partner, assessment, and pharmacological, psychological, and combined treatments. It concluded by recognizing the continually evolving nature of clinical research and recommended a subsequent guideline review and revision every fourth year. Consistent with that recommendation, the ISSM organized a second multidisciplinary panel of experts in April 2013, which met for 2 days in Bangalore, India. This manuscript updates the previous guidelines and reports on the recommendations of the panel of experts.

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop clearly worded, practical, evidenced-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of PE for family practice clinicians as well as sexual medicine experts.

Method

A comprehensive literature review was performed.

Results

This article contains the report of the second ISSM PE Guidelines Committee. It offers a new unified definition of PE and updates the previous treatment recommendations. Brief assessment procedures are delineated, and validated diagnostic and treatment questionnaires are reviewed. Finally, the best practices treatment recommendations are presented to guide clinicians, both familiar and unfamiliar with PE, in facilitating treatment of their patients.

Conclusion

Development of guidelines is an evolutionary process that continually reviews data and incorporates the best new research. We expect that ongoing research will lead to a more complete understanding of the pathophysiology as well as new efficacious and safe treatments for this sexual dysfunction. We again recommend that these guidelines be reevaluated and updated by the ISSM in 4 years.
Design recommendations for axially loaded elliptical hollow section X and T joints
Authors: Wardenier Jaap , Choo Yoo Sang , Packer Jeffrey A. , van der Vegte Gerhardus J. , Shen Wei
Published: May 2014

This paper presents a summary, with background information, of the design recommendations developed recently for axially loaded X and T joints between elliptical hollow sections (EHS). These recommendations are based on experimental tests, finite element (FE) calibration and parametric studies carried out in a collaborative research programme between the universities of Singapore, Toronto and Delft.

The strength equations are presented in a similar manner to those currently adopted for circular hollow section (CHS) joints and rectangular hollow section (RHS) joints in ISO 14346 (2013). The ISO recommendations are based on, and are similar to, those of the International Institute of Welding, IIW‐XV‐E, which were also published by the Comité International pour le Développement et l’Etude de la Construction Tubulaire (CIDECT) in recent editions of their Design Guides.
Evaluation of the recent IIW (2012) and ISO (2013) strength equations for axially loaded CHS K gap joints
Authors: J. van der Vegte Gerhardus , Wardenier Jaap
Published: May 2014

Over the last decade, extensive numerical analyses have been conducted on axially loaded uniplanar K gap, T and X joints made of circular hollow sections (CHS), considering a wide range of geometrical parameters and different types of chord load. Based on the large amount of numerical data, in 2007, new joint capacity and chord stress equations were derived for CHS joints. This article presents detailed comparisons made between the (mean) strength equations for K gap joints and the experimental data available. These design equations were first discussed and approved by Sub‐commission XV‐E of the International Institute of Welding (IIW), subsequently published in the CIDECT Design Guide for CHS joints [1] and adopted in the 3rd edition of the IIW Static Design Procedure for Welded Hollow Section Joints [2], which formed the basis for the ISO 14346 recommendations [3] published recently.
Male circumcision: summary of current clinical practice
Authors: Modgil Vaibhav , Rai Sonpreet , Anderson Paul C.B.
Published: May 2014

In this review, the authors outline the medical indications and contraindications for adult male circumcision and discuss the growing evidence behind prophylactic circumcision. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons.
New dibenzoate plasticizer blends for PVC applications
Authors: Arendt William D. , McBride Emily L. , Hanes Rebecca D.
Published: May 2014

Dibenzoates plasticizers are well‐established and are used in PVC applications. Chemically, these plasticizers are non‐phthalates and function well as high‐solvating. In the past, new benzoates, dibenzoate blends, and grades were developed to keep pace with formulators' needs. More recently, a new generation of dibenzoate triblend platform has been developed to offer formulators an improved high solvator to complement general purpose plasticizer performance. A basic plastisol evaluation protocol was utilized to help determine how to formulate with these new blends. In addition to the basic data that were developed, examples of performance in starting plastisol formulations are shown. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 20:137–142, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Brazilian climate politics 2005–2012: ambivalence and paradox
Authors: Viola Eduardo , Franchini Matías
Published: May 2014

Climate change has become a powerful social and political driver of our time. Within this context, progressive national and international societies are faced with a central challenge: how can reformist forces become strong enough to bypass the efforts of conservative forces and initiate a rapid and profound response to the climate crisis? This article reviews the politics of climate change in Brazil between 2005 and 2012 with reference to this central societal challenge, focusing on reformist and conservative actors such as economic and social forces, as well as the role of the government. This review identifies three periods: first, 2005–2008, when reformist forces grew strongly from a weak base; second, 2009–2010, when there was a peak in influence of reformist forces, while at the same time as conservative forces were growing strong; and third, 2011–2012, when conservative forces became predominant and were strongly supported by the government. WIREs Clim Change 2014, 5:677–688. doi: 10.1002/wcc.289

This article is categorized under:

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Policies, Instruments, Lifestyles, Behavior

Policy and Governance > National Climate Change Policy
Solvent‐templated 1D Loop‐and‐cage Metal‐organic Coordination Polymer Exhibiting a 1D→3D Interdigited Array
Authors: Deng Shengjun , Chao Wenting , Huang Feiqiang , Gan Ling , Duan Xiongpeng , Liu Tianxi , Xiao Weiming , Zhang Ning
Published: May 2014

The reaction of zinc salts with mixed organic linkers afforded the complex {[Zn2(BPTC)(Bix)2]·DMSO}n (1) (H4BPTC = biphenyl‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxylic acid, Bix = 1,4‐bis(imidazol‐1‐ylmethyl)‐benzene, DMSO = dimethyl sulfoxide). Compound 1 exhibits an unusual 1D loop‐and‐cage structure, where the DMSO molecule directs the formation of a cage subunit. Moreover, it shows an interesting 1D→3D interdigitated array with two levels of interdigitating modes.