bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning from oligosaccharide soaks of crystals of an AA13 lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase: crystal packing, ligand binding and active-site disorder
Authors: Frandsen Kristian E. H. , Poulsen Jens-Christian Navarro , Tovborg Morten , Johansen Katja S. , Lo Leggio Leila
Published: December 2016

Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) are a class of copper-dependent enzymes discovered within the last ten years. They oxidatively cleave polysaccharides (chitin, lignocellulose, hemicellulose and starch-derived), presumably making recalcitrant substrates accessible to glycoside hydrolases. Recently, the first crystal structure of an LPMO–substrate complex was reported, giving insights into the interaction of LPMOs with β-linked substrates (Frandsenet al., 2016). The LPMOs acting on α-linked glycosidic bonds (family AA13) display binding surfaces that are quite different from those of LPMOs that act on β-linked glycosidic bonds (families AA9–AA11), as revealed from the first determined structure (Lo Leggioet al., 2015), and thus presumably the AA13s interact with their substrate in a distinct fashion. Here, several new structures of the same AA13 enzyme,Aspergillus oryzaeAA13, are presented. Crystals obtained in the presence of high zinc-ion concentrations were used, as they can be obtained more reproducibly than those used to refine the deposited copper-containing structure. One structure with an ordered zinc-bound active site was solved at 1.65 Å resolution, and three structures from crystals soaked with maltooligosaccharides in solutions devoid of zinc ions were solved at resolutions of up to 1.10 Å. Despite similar unit-cell parameters, small rearrangements in the crystal packing occur when the crystals are depleted of zinc ions, resulting in a more occluded substrate-binding surface. In two of the three structures maltooligosaccharide ligands are bound, but not at the active site. Two of the structures presented show a His-ligand conformation that is incompatible with metal-ion binding. In one of these structures this conformation is the principal one (80% occupancy), giving a rare atomic resolution view of a substantially misfolded enzyme that is presumably rendered inactive.
9,9-Diethyl-7-ethynyl-N,N-diphenyl-9H-fluoren-2-amine
Authors: Novina J. J. , Vasuki G. , Singh Prachi , Thomas K. R. Justin
Published: December 2016

In the title compound, C31H27N, the fluorene unit is approximately planar (r.m.s deviation = 0.0255 Å). The dihedral angles between the fluorene fused ring system and two phenyl rings are 88.37 (5) and 66.31 (6)°. Weak intermolecular C—H...π(ring) interactions help to stabilize the crystal structure.
Doubling: there’s no escape from terror/doubling: there’s an escape from commodification …?
Authors: Letiche Hugo
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Commodification doubles self and work, life and object, uniqueness and standardization and art and management. For the artist, the unicity, beauty, inspiration and creativity of art is doubled in the sale, marketing, display, distribution and mass production of “art works”. Making art is intimate, personal and individual; selling art requires public display, pleasing the all important customer(s) and dealing with many sorts of in-betweens. What commodification is on the artist/art work level is doubling on the I/me, self/persona, private/public and in-group/out-group level. This paper aims to examine the commodification and doubling in the case of the Gee’s Bend quilt makers. The quilts foreshadowed the modernist aesthetic and are of the highest aesthetic quality. But, they were made in a traditional rural society by very poor, uneducated black women. The quilts were not made to be sold but were dedicated to familial remembrance and to immediate aesthetic pleasure. But now that they are on display: is escape from commodification possible?

Design/methodology/approach

Reprint for special issue.

Findings

Doubling, in the original article below, was tendentious but artistically and politically to be overcome; doubling currently seems much more ominous, omnipresent and out of control. Signifyin(g) has become bomb throwing. Present day doubling apparently produces terror and not just commodification.

Originality/value

Invited for publication.
Development and characterization of EST‐SSR markers in Asarum sakawanum var. stellatum and cross‐amplification in related species
Authors: Takahashi Daiki , Sakaguchi Shota , Setoguchi Hiroaki
Published: December 2016

EST‐SSR markers were developed for Asarum sakawanum var. stellatum to evaluate the genetic diversity and genetic structure of series Sakawanum and assess their utility in other series in the genus Asarum. A total of 1864 primer pairs, including 1864 tri‐nucleotide SSR motifs, were designed based on transcriptome data. Of the 96 primers tested, 17 loci were successfully amplified and polymorphic in series Sakawanum taxa. Furthermore, all these loci were successfully amplified in A. takaoi, whereas only 10 loci were amplified in the more phylogenetically distant A. pellucidum. For populations of A. sakawanum var. stellatum, the values of observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.261 to 0.957 and 0.317 to 0.881, respectively. These newly developed EST‐SSR markers will be used in population genetic studies of series Sakawanum to infer the evolutionary history and genetic diversity of these series, many of which are endangered in Japan.
What Types of Policy Uncertainties Matter for Business?
Authors: Morikawa Masayuki
Published: December 2016

This paper reports data from the author's original survey of Japanese companies concerning the distributions on subjective uncertainties over economic policies and their effects on business operations. Companies perceive uncertainty over the future course of certain economic policies, such as the social security system and international trade policy. Policy uncertainty regarding the tax system, trade policy and environmental policy can have substantial effects on managerial decisions, especially on equipment investment and overseas activities. According to the companies’ subjective probability distributions on their sales outlook, manufacturers face greater uncertainty than non‐manufacturing companies do. Uncertainty over economic policies substantially reduces the expected sales growth rate.
Nonperforming Loans and Purchase of Loans by Public Asset Management Companies in Malaysia and Thailand
Authors: Inoguchi Masahiro
Published: December 2016

This paper explores the factors which eliminated the nonperforming loan (NPL) problem in Malaysia and Thailand following the 1997 Asian financial crisis. The number of NPL, which expanded in the aftermath of the crisis, has since declined in most South‐East Asian countries. Although previous studies have explored the causes of the increase in NPL numbers, few have analysed the factors that contributed to the reduction in their number in Asia. In Malaysia and Thailand, authorities put in place several measures to manage NPL. As a vehicle to acquire NPL from banks, Malaysia established the Pengurusan Danaharta Nasional Berhad (Danaharta) in 1998, while Thailand established the Thai Asset Management Corporation (TAMC) in 2001. We analyse whether the characteristic features of banks, improvements in macroeconomic conditions, and facilities for purchasing loans caused a reduction in the number of NPL in Malaysia and Thailand. The results suggest that selling loans to a public asset management company was effective in reducing the number of NPL in Thailand. While macroeconomic conditions influenced the decline in NPL ratios in Thailand, in Malaysia, well performing commercial banks and large commercial and investment banks generally had smaller NPL ratios throughout and following the crisis.
Surfing through the GFC: Systemic Risk in Australia
Authors: Dungey Mardi , Matei Marius , Luciani Matteo , Veredas David
Published: December 2016

We provide empirical evidence on the degree of systemic risk in Australia before, during and after the global financial crisis. We calculate a daily index of systemic risk from 2004 to 2013 in order to understand how real economy firms influence the outcomes for the rest of the economy. This is done via a mapping of the interconnectedness of the financial and non‐financial sectors. The financial sector is in general home to the most consistently systemically risky firms in the economy. The materials sector occasionally becomes as systemically risky as the financial sector, reflecting the importance of understanding these linkages.
Impact of an education session on clinical handover between medical shifts in an emergency department: A pilot study
Authors: Blyth Caroline , Bost Nerolie , Shiels Sue
Published: December 2016

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a medical education session on the implementation of a new change of shift medical clinical handover format in an urban hospital ED.

Methods

This pilot study used a pre‐ and post‐intervention design. The intervention consisted of a 1 h education session to teach a new handover format, SBARM (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation, Medication). Data were collected through observations of doctors performing clinical handover and individual interviews with participants.

Results

The educational intervention led to an increased focus on checking medication charts, but had minimal effect on changing other aspects of clinical handover at doctors’ change of shift times. Perceived increased time spent on handover using the new system was seen as a major barrier to the implementation of SBARM. The addition of ‘M’ to ‘SBAR’ heightened awareness of checking medication and fluid charts.

Conclusion

Time pressures need to be taken into consideration when introducing changes to current processes. Also, it is recommended that, in addition to ongoing education, senior clinicians are engaged during the planning and execution stages of changes to practice.
Serial changes of computed tomographic peritoneogram in patients with symptomatic ultrafiltration failure complicating continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Cheung Michelle , Chu Ferdinand SK , Kwan Lorraine PY
Published: December 2016

Introduction

It is well‐known that continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is associated with complications. And some of these complications are well‐demonstrated as abnormalities on computed tomographic peritoneogram (CTP). The objective of our study is to document the serial changes of these complications.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 125 patients treated with CAPD for end staged renal failure (ESRF) who had CTP conducted in our hospital between December 2006 and August 2015. A total of 164 (n = 164) CTPs were performed. Patients with only one CTP performed were excluded from our study. A retrospective review of 68 serial CTPs studies on 28 patients during the 9‐year period was undertaken. We looked into the serial changes on CTP.

Results

Among the 28 patients who had serial imaging, 46.43% of patients were found to have retroperitoneal leakage; 92.31% of them showed resolution in subsequent serial CTP. 21.43% of patients had anterior abdominal wall leakage; none of them resolved in subsequent CTP. 14.29% of patients were found to have inguinal hernias; 75% of them showed interval progression in subsequent serial CTPs.

Conclusion

Retroperitoneal leakage is a common complication in patients on CAPD and tends to resolve whereas other complications including anterior abdominal wall leakage and hernias are unlikely to resolve and may progress further.
Cardiac risk index as a simple geometric indicator to select patients for the heart‐sparing radiotherapy of left‐sided breast cancer
Authors: Sung KiHoon , Choi Young Eun , Lee Kyu Chan
Published: December 2016

Introduction

This is a dosimetric study to identify a simple geometric indicator to discriminate patients who meet the selection criterion for heart‐sparing radiotherapy (RT). The authors proposed a cardiac risk index (CRI), directly measurable from the CT images at the time of scanning.

Methods

Treatment plans were regenerated using the CT data of 312 consecutive patients with left‐sided breast cancer. Dosimetric analysis was performed to estimate the risk of cardiac mortality using cardiac dosimetric parameters, such as the relative heart volumes receiving ≥25 Gy (heart V25). For each CT data set, in‐field heart depth (HD) and in‐field heart width (HW) were measured to generate the geometric parameters, including maximum HW (HWmax) and maximum HD (HDmax). Seven geometric parameters were evaluated as candidates for CRI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were used to examine the overall discriminatory power of the geometric parameters to select high‐risk patients (heart V25 ≥ 10%).

Results

Seventy‐one high‐risk (22.8%) and 241 low‐risk patients (77.2%) were identified by dosimetric analysis. The geometric and dosimetric parameters were significantly higher in the high‐risk group. Heart V25 showed the strong positive correlations with all geometric parameters examined (r > 0.8, p < 0.001). The product of HDmax and HWmax (CRI) revealed the largest area under the curve (AUC) value (0.969) and maintained 100% sensitivity and 88% specificity at the optimal cut‐off value of 14.58 cm2.

Conclusions

Cardiac risk index proposed as a simple geometric indicator to select high‐risk patients provides useful guidance for clinicians considering optimal implementation of heart‐sparing RT.
What is an Investment Project's Implied Rate of Return?
Authors: Bornholt Graham
Published: December 2016

How to measure a project's implied rate of return has long been an unresolved problem, except for some special cases. This paper derives return on present cost (ROPC) as the correct measure of an investment project's implied rate of return. The IRR is a biased measure except for projects classified as simple projects, and this bias is likely to be substantial in many real‐world applications. Thus while net present values should be used to determine whether to accept/reject projects, I recommend that analysts use ROPC in place of the IRR as a measure of a project's true rate of return.
Exercise therapy in oncology rehabilitation in Australia: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Dennett Amy M , Peiris Casey L , Shields Nora , Morgan Delwyn , Taylor Nicholas F
Published: December 2016

Aim

Oncology rehabilitation improves outcomes for cancer survivors but little is known about program availability in Australia. The aims of this study were: to describe oncology rehabilitation programs in Australia: determine whether the exercise component of programs is consistent with guidelines: and to explore barriers and facilitators to program implementation.

Methods

A sequential, explanatory mixed‐methods study was completed in two phases: (1) a survey of Australian oncology rehabilitation programs; and (2) purposively sampled follow‐up semistructured interviews with senior clinicians working in oncology rehabilitation who were involved with exercise prescription.

Results

Hospitals and/or cancer centers from 42 public hospital health networks (representing 163 hospitals) and 39 private hospitals were contacted to identify 31 oncology rehabilitation programs. All 31 surveys were returned (100% response rate). Programs were typically multidisciplinary, ran twice weekly, provided education and exercise and included self‐management strategies. Exercise prescription and progression was patient centered and included a combination of resistance and aerobic training supplemented by balance, pelvic floor, and core stability exercises. Challenges to implementation included a lack of awareness of programs in the community and organizational barriers such as funding. Strong links with oncologists facilitated program referrals.

Conclusion

Despite evidence to support oncology rehabilitation, there are few programs in Australia and there are challenges that limit it becoming part of standard practice. Programs that exist are multidisciplinary with a focus on exercise with the majority of programs following a cardiac rehabilitation model of care.
Afatinib successfully treated leptomeningeal metastasis during erlotinib treatment in a patient with EGFR‐mutant (Exon18:G719S) lung adenocarcinoma as a second‐line chemotherapy
Authors: Tamiya Motohiro , Shiroyama Takayuki , Nishihara Takashi , Nishida Takuji , Hayama Manabu , Tanaka Ayako , Morishita Naoko , Suzuki Hidekazu , Okamoto Norio , Hirashima Tomonori
Published: December 2016

Exon18 mutations are detected in 3.6% of epidermal growth factor receptor mutations. Exon 18 mutations as driver mutations have higher sensitivities in vitro to second‐generation (G)‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) than to first G‐ and third G‐TKIs at clinically relevant doses. In clinical trial, first G‐TKIs have moderate but insufficient efficacy, and afatinib was more active in uncommon epidermal growth factor receptor mutations. Here, we present a case of a woman who was initially prescribed erlotinib for lung adenocarcinoma with an exon18 mutation. She developed a leptomeningeal metastasis during treatment and was switched to afatinib. Subsequently, her symptoms improved and she is currently treated with maintenance afatinib therapy. This report suggests improved efficacy of afatinib compared to erlotinib for refractory leptomeningeal metastasis in exon18 mutation.
The architecture of submarine monogenetic volcanoes – insights from 3D seismic data
Authors: Reynolds Peter , Schofield Nick , Brown Richard J. , Holford Simon Paul
Published: December 2016

Many prospective sedimentary basins contain a variety of extrusive volcanic products that are ultimately sourced from volcanoes. However, seismic reflection‐based studies of magmatic rift basins have tended to focus on the underlying magma plumbing system, meaning that the seismic characteristics of volcanoes are not well understood. Additionally, volcanoes have similar morphologies to hydrothermal vents, which are also linked to underlying magmatic intrusions. In this study, we use high resolution 3D seismic and well data from the Bass Basin, offshore southern Australia, to document 34 cone‐ and crater‐type vents of Miocene age. The vents overlie magmatic intrusions and have seismic properties indicative of a volcanic origin: their moderate–high amplitude upper reflections and zones of “wash‐out” and velocity pull‐up beneath. The internal reflections of the vents are similar to those found in lava deltas, suggesting they are composed of volcaniclastic material. This interpretation is corroborated by data from exploration wells which penetrated the flanks of several vents. We infer that the vents we describe are composed of hyaloclastite and pyroclasts produced during submarine volcanic eruptions. The morphology of the vents is typical of monogenetic volcanoes, consistent with the onshore record of volcanism on the southern Australian margin. Based on temporal, spatial and volumetric relationships, we propose that submarine volcanoes can evolve from maars to tuff cones as a result of varying magma‐water interaction efficiency. The morphologies of the volcanoes and their links to the underlying feeder systems are superficially similar to hydrothermal vents. This highlights the need for careful seismic interpretation and characterization of vent structures linked to magmatic intrusions within sedimentary basins.
Emerging biopharmaceuticals from bioactive peptides derived from marine organisms
Authors: Anjum Komal , Abbas Syed Qamar , Akhter Najeeb , Shagufta Bibi Ibtesam , Shah Sayed Asmat Ali , Hassan Syed Shams ul
Published: December 2016

Biologically active natural products are spontaneous medicinal entrants, which encourage synthetic access for enhancing and supporting drug discovery and development. Marine bioactive peptides are considered as a rich source of natural products that may provide long‐term health, in addition to many prophylactic and curative medicinal drug treatments. The large literature concerning marine peptides has been collected, which shows high potential of nutraceutical and therapeutic efficacy encompassing wide spectra of bioactivities against a number of infection‐causing agents. Their antimicrobial, antimalarial, antitumor, antiviral, and cardioprotective actions have achieved the attention of the pharmaceutical industry toward new design of drug formulations, for treatment and prevention of several infections. However, the mechanism of action of many peptide molecules has been still untapped. So in this regard, this paper reviews several peptide compounds by which they interfere with human pathogenesis. This knowledge is one of the key tools to be understood especially for the biotransformation of biomolecules into targeted medicines. The fact that different diseases have the capability to fight at different sites inside the body can lead to a new wave of increasing the chances to produce targeted medicines.
General health influences episodes of xerostomia: a prospective population‐based study
Authors: da Silva Luciana , Kupek Emil , Peres Karen G.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the associated factors of changes in symptoms of xerostomia (SOX) in adults aged 20–59.

Methods

A prospective population‐based study was conducted in 2009 (n = 1720) and 2012 (n = 1222) in the urban area of Florianópolis, SC, Brazil. Information on SOX was collected in both years together with age, family income, years of schooling, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, changes in the body mass index (BMI; kg/m²), medicine use, self‐reported diagnosis of chronic diseases, change in hypertension status and in the use and need for dentures, and number of remaining teeth. Associated factors with changes in SOX were investigated using multinomial logistic regression, considering those who had never reported this symptom as the reference.

Results

Prevalence of regular SOX was equal to 3.8% (95% CI: 2.9–5.1) and irregular (one period only) equal to 12.2% (95% CI: 10.2–14.5). Age, smoking habit, medicine use, self‐reported diagnosis of depression, and weight gain increased the probability of regular SOX, whereas highest schooling level was associated with lower probability of this symptom.

Conclusions

General and psychosocial health influenced the number of episodes of xerostomia symptoms, calling for multidisciplinary actions to prevent common risk behaviors for oral and general diseases.
Changeability of the fully methylated status of the 15q11.2 region in induced pluripotent stem cells derived from a patient with Prader‐Willi syndrome
Authors: Okuno Hironobu , Nakabayashi Kazuhiko , Abe Kousei , Ando Takayuki , Sanosaka Tsukasa , Kohyama Jun , Akamatsu Wado , Ohyama Manabu , Takahashi Takao , Kosaki Kenjiro , Okano Hideyuki
Published: December 2016

Prader‐Will syndrome (PWS) is characterized by hyperphagia, growth hormone deficiency and central hypogonadism caused by the dysfunction of the hypothalamus. Patients with PWS present with methylation abnormalities of the PWS‐imprinting control region in chromosome 15q11.2, subject to parent‐of‐origin‐specific methylation and controlling the parent‐of‐origin‐specific expression of other paternally expressed genes flanking the region. In theory, the reversal of hypermethylation in the hypothalamic cells could be a promising strategy for the treatment of PWS patients, since cardinal symptoms of PWS patients are correlated with dysfunction of the hypothalamus. The genome‐wide methylation status dramatically changes during the reprograming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and during the in vitro culture of iPSCs. Here, we tested the methylation status of the chromosome 15q11.2 region in iPSCs from a PWS patient using pyrosequencing and a more detailed method of genome‐wide DNA methylation profiling to reveal whether iPSCs with a partially unmethylated status for the chromosome 15q11.2 region exhibit global methylation aberrations. As a result, we were able to show that a fully methylated status for chromosome 15q11.2 in a PWS patient could be reversed to a partially unmethylated status in at least some of the PWS‐iPSC lines. Genome‐wide DNA methylation profiling revealed that the partial unmethylation occurred at differentially methylated regions located in chromosome 15q11.2, but not at other differentially methylated regions associated with genome imprinting. The present data potentially opens a door to cell‐based therapy for PWS patients and, possibly, patients with other disorders associated with genomic imprinting.
Genetic heterogeneity in Pakistani microcephaly families revisited
Authors: Ahmad I. , Baig S. M. , Abdulkareem A. R. , Hussain M. S. , Sur I. , Toliat M. R. , Nürnberg G. , Dalibor N. , Moawia A. , Waseem S. S. , Asif M. , Nagra H. , Sher M. , Khan M. M. A. , Hassan I. , Rehman S. ur , Thiele H. , Altmüller J. , Noegel A. A. , Nürnberg P.
Published: December 2016

Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly (MCPH) is a rare and heterogeneous genetic disorder characterized by reduced head circumference, low cognitive prowess and, in general, architecturally normal brains. As many as 14 different loci have already been mapped. We recruited 35 MCPH families in Pakistan and could identify the genetic cause of the disease in 31 of them. Using homozygosity mapping complemented with whole‐exome, gene panel or Sanger sequencing, we identified 12 novel mutations in 3 known MCPH‐associated genes – 9 in ASPM, 2 in MCPH1 and 1 in CDK5RAP2. The 2 MCPH1 mutations were homozygous microdeletions of 164,250 and 577,594 bp, respectively, for which we were able to map the exact breakpoints. We also identified four known mutations — three in ASPM and one in WDR62. The latter was initially deemed to be a missense mutation but we demonstrate here that it affects splicing. As to ASPM, as many as 17 out of 27 MCPH5 families that we ascertained in our sample were found to carry the previously reported founder mutation p.Trp1326*. This study adds to the mutational spectra of four known MCPH‐associated genes and updates our knowledge about the genetic heterogeneity of MCPH in the Pakistani population considering its ethnic diversity.
Maxillary sinus volume: new physiopathological data in fungal ball genesis? A retrospective study
Authors: Michel J. , Radulesco T. , Mancini J. , Paganelli A. , Varoquaux A. , Adalian P. , Ranque S. , Dessi P.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The goal of this study was to compare maxillary sinus (MS) volume in patients with, or without, maxillary fungal ball.

Design

Monocentric retrospective study performed on 115 patient CT scans.

Settings

We defined two groups of patients according to the absence (control group) or the presence (fungal ball group) of unilateral fungal ball in the MS. Sinus 3D reconstruction was created from CT scan.

Participants

Control group: 71 patients (36 women – 50.7%); mean age was 51 years. Fungal ball group: 44 patients (29 women – 65.9%); mean age was 54.5 years.

Main outcome measure

The univariate association between MS volume and sinus covariates was tested by anova. Multivariate analysis was made including all variables statistically significant in univariate analysis.

Results

In the control group, mean MS volume was 14 766 mm3. The volumes of the two MSs were not statistically different in the control group (P = 0.145). In the fungal ball group, mean MS volume was 15 982 mm3. Fungal ball was found in the smallest MS in 41 of 44 cases. Univariate analysis showed a statistical difference between the pathological and the non‐pathological MS volumes (P < 10−4). Multivariate analysis confirmed the correlation between MS volume and the presence of a fungal ball (P < 10−4).

Conclusions

This study suggests that maxillary fungal ball is associated with a smaller size of the affected MS.
New olfactometric findings in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Passali G.C. , Bove F. , Vargiu L. , Bentivoglio A.R. , Anzivino R. , De Corso E. , Galli J. , Rigante M. , Pandolfini M. , Sergi B. , Giuliani M. , Cianfrone F. , Paludetti G. , Fasano A.
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To investigate in Parkinson's disease‐affected patients a correlation between hyposmia and gastrointestinal dysfunction and their possible identical etiopathogenesis.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

ENT and neurology departments (Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy).

Participants

A total of 78 patients with diagnosis of PD according to the UK Brain Bank criteria. Inclusion criteria: informed consent and olfactory testing executed; exclusion criteria: signs of dementia according to the DSM‐IV criteria; Mini Mental State Examination score ≤26; head trauma; central neurological disorders, nasal or systemic diseases potentially affecting olfactory function. Motor condition was assessed by means of Hoehn and Yahr staging and by section III of the Unified PD Rating Scale, performed off and on medications.

Main outcome measures

The patients underwent olfactory evaluation (TDI score), after rhinomanometry with nasal decongestion. A total of 25 non‐motor symptoms were evaluated through an interview.

Results

Olfactory dysfunction was objectively found in 91.0% of patients, a percentage higher than the subjective hyposmia reported (55.1%) P = 0.0001. Seven patients (9.0%) were normosmic, 49 (62.8%) hyposmic and 22 (28.2%) anosmic. Subjective hyposmia, constipation, bloating and dyspepsia differed across groups, being higher in anosmic and hyposmic ones than in the normosmic group. P value was ≤0.05 for each symptom. Despite the original results, this study has the limitation of being based on subjective ratings by a relatively limited group of patients.

Conclusions

Hyposmia and gastrointestinal symptoms are correlated, and this would support a possible common origin; the CNS could be reached through two different pathways, both starting in the peripheral nervous system.
Association between 24‐hour combined multichannel intraluminal impedance‐pH monitoring and symptoms or quality of life in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux
Authors: Kim S.I. , Kwon O.E. , Na S.Y. , Lee Y.C. , Park J.M. , Eun Y.G.
Published: December 2016

Objective

To evaluate the association between the parameters of 24‐hour multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII)‐pH monitoring and the symptoms or quality of life (QoL) in laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) patients.

Design

Prospective cohort study without controls.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Methods

Forty‐five LPR patients were selected from subjects who underwent 24‐hour MII‐pH monitoring and were diagnosed with LPR from September 2014 to May 2015. Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), Health‐related Quality of Life (HRQoL), Short Form 12 (SF‐12) Survey questionnaires were surveyed. Spearman's correlation was used to analyse the association between the symptoms or QoL and 24‐hour MII‐pH monitoring.

Results

Most parameters in 24‐hour MII‐pH monitoring showed weak or no correlation with RSI, HRQoL and SF‐12. Only number of non‐acid reflux events that reached the larynx and pharynx (LPR‐non‐acid) and number of total reflux events that reached the larynx and pharynx (LPR‐total) parameters showed strong correlation with heartburn in RSI (R = 0.520, P < 0.001, R = 0.478, P = 0.001, respectively). Multiple regression analysis showed that there was only one significant regression coefficient between LPR‐non‐acid and voice/hoarseness portion of HRQoL (b = 1.719, P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Most parameters of 24‐hour MII‐pH monitoring did not reflect subjective symptoms or QoL in patients with LPR.
Analytical modelling of residual stress in additive manufacturing
Authors: Fergani O , Berto F , Welo T , Liang S Y
Published: December 2016

A physics‐based analytical model to assess residual stresses in additive manufacturing made of metallic materials is presented and validated experimentally. The model takes into consideration the typical multi‐pass aspect of additive manufacturing. First, the thermal signature of the process is assessed by predicting the temperature for the problem of a moving heat source, then, the thermally induced stresses in a homogenous semi‐infinite medium are determined. Taking the thermal stresses as input, the residual stresses are calculated analytically to obtain the distribution across the depth. Good agreement is obtained between the analytical prediction and X‐ray measurements made on Selective Laser Melted 316L Stainless Steel. In addition, the analytical approach enables in‐depth interpretations of results with basis in the true mechanisms of the process. Thus, the present model appears as a promising tool for optimization of process parameters in additive manufacturing, which in turn will improve the understanding of process parameters and their effect on properties of the final product.
Crack growth in a naturally corroded bridge steel
Authors: Ali K , Peng D , Jones R , Singh R R K , Zhao X L , McMillan A J , Berto F
Published: December 2016

This paper summarises the findings of an international collaborative programme that focuses on the problem of the growth of cracks that arise from natural corrosion in bridge steels. The experimental data presented in this paper confirm that the bridge steel da/dN versus ΔK relationship is similar to that seen by the high‐strength aerospace steels D6ac and 4340. It is then shown that the methodology developed to predict the growth of small naturally occurring cracks in aerospace materials can also be used to compute the growth of cracks that arise because of natural corrosion in bridge steels.
Accuracy of self‐report of HIV viral load among people with HIV on antiretroviral treatment
Authors: Sewell J , Daskalopoulou M , Nakagawa F , Lampe FC , Edwards S , Perry N , Wilkins E , O'Connell R , Jones M , Collins S , Speakman A , Phillips AN , Rodger AJ ,   the Antiretrovirals, Sexual Transmission Risk and Attitudes (ASTRA) Study Group
Published: December 2016

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess, among people living with HIV, knowledge of their latest HIV viral load (VL) and CD4 count.

Methods

Agreement between self‐report and clinic record was assessed among 2771 HIV‐diagnosed individuals on antiretroviral treatment (ART) in the UK Antiretrovirals, Sexual Transmission Risk and Attitudes Study (2011–2012). A confidential self‐completed questionnaire collected information on demographic, socioeconomic, HIV‐related and health‐related factors. Participants were asked to self‐report their latest VL [undetectable (≤ 50 copies/mL), detectable (> 50 copies/mL) or “don't know”] and CD4 count (< 200, 200–350, 351–500 or > 500 cells/μL, or “don't know”). Latest clinic‐recorded VL and CD4 count were documented.

Results

Of 2678 participants on ART, 434 (16.2%) did not accurately report whether their VL was undetectable. Of 2334 participants with clinic‐recorded VL ≤ 50 copies/mL, 2061 (88.3%) correctly reported undetectable VL; 49 (2.1%) reported detectable VL; 224 (9.6%) did not know their VL. Of 344 participants with clinic‐recorded VL > 50 copies/mL, 183 (53.2%) correctly reported detectable VL; 76 (22.1%) reported undetectable VL; 85 (24.7%) did not know their VL. Of 2137 participants who reported undetectable VL, clinic‐recorded VL was ≤ 50 copies/mL for 2061 (96.4%) and <1000 copies/mL for 2122 (99.3%). In analyses adjusted for gender/sexual orientation, ethnicity, age and time since starting ART, factors strongly associated with inaccurate self‐report of VL (including “don't know”) included socioeconomic disadvantage [prevalence ratio (95% CI) for “not” vs. “always” having enough money for basic needs: 2.4 (1.9, 3.1)], poor English fluency [3.5 (2.4, 5.1) vs. UK born], nondisclosure of HIV status [1.7 (1.3, 2.1)], ART nonadherence [2.1 (1.7, 2.7) for three or more missed doses vs. none in the past 2 weeks] and depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9 score ≥ 10) [1.9 (1.6, 2.2)]. Overall, 612 (22.9%) of 2667 participants on ART did not accurately self‐report whether or not their CD4 count was ≤ 350 cells/μL.

Conclusions

There is a high level of accuracy of a self‐report of undetectable VL in people on ART in the UK. Overall, accurate knowledge of personal VL level varied according to demographic, socioeconomic, HIV‐related and health‐related factors. Active identification of people who may benefit from increased levels of support and engagement in care is important.
Fiber spinnability of glass melts
Authors: Yue Yuanzheng , Zheng Qiuju
Published: December 2016

Fiber spinnability is the ability of a glass‐forming melt to be steadily stretched and spun into defect‐free fiber filaments. However, its quantification has not been well established owing to many controlling factors such as melt fragility, melt strength, surface tension, liquidus temperature, liquidus viscosity, and crystallization. To understand and quantify the fiber spinnability of a glass melt, we consider two key aspects: fiberizing viscosity window and melt stability. The fiberizing viscosity window is defined by the upper and lower viscosity limits. Fibers rupture above the upper viscosity limit, whereas a stable melt stream cannot form below the lower limit (ηlow). We introduce a simple parameter to quantify fiber spinnability, namely, Kfib=ηL/ηlow, where ηL is the viscosity at liquidus temperature (TL). A fiber can only form if Kfib>1. To quantify melt stability we propose the parameter of S=(TL‐TC)/(TL‐Tg), where TL and TC are the liquidus temperature, and the onset temperature of melt crystallization during cooling, respectively. Both parameters (Kfib and S) are important for a rational design of glass fiber compositions, and fiberizing process. We use two basalt melts as examples of this study to demonstrate the high sensitivity of fiber spinnability to a minor variation in chemical composition of melts.
Antimicrobial effect of an Undaria pinnatifida composite film containing vanillin against Escherichia coli and its application in the packaging of smoked chicken breast
Authors: Yang Hyun‐Ju , Lee Ji‐Hyeon , Lee Ka‐Yeon , Song Kyung Bin
Published: December 2016

To develop a value‐added product, we used the under‐utilised seaweed Undaria pinnatifida as a source material for the fabrication of a biodegradable film by extracting U. pinnatifida protein (UPP). UPP/gelatine composite films with different constituent ratios were prepared. In addition, the UPP/gelatine composite films containing vanillin (0.05%, 0.1% and 0.5%) were prepared as antimicrobial packaging material. To evaluate the utility of the UPP composite film containing 0.5% vanillin as food packaging material, smoked chicken breast samples inoculated with Escherichia coli were packed with the film and stored at 4 °C for 10 days. It was observed that packaging of smoked chicken breast with the UPP composite film containing vanillin decreased the population of the inoculated E. coli by 1.12 log CFU g−1 compared with that in the control sample. Thus, the UPP/gelatine composite film with added vanillin can be utilised as a packaging material for smoked chicken breast.
Minimal residual disease monitoring in childhood B lymphoblastic leukemia with t(12;21)(p13;q22);ETV6–RUNX1: concordant results using quantitation of fusion transcript and flow cytometry
Authors: Alm S. J. , Engvall C. , Asp J. , Palmqvist L. , Abrahamsson J. , Fogelstrand L.
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The translocation t(12;21)(p13;q22) resulting in the fusion geneETV6–RUNX1, is the most frequent gene fusion in childhood B lymphoblastic leukemia. In the Nordic Society of Paediatric Haematology and OncologyALL‐2008 treatment protocol, treatment stratification in B‐lineageALLis based on results of minimal residual disease (MRD) analysis with fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS). In this study, we determined whetherRT‐qPCRof theETV6–RUNX1fusion transcript can be a reliable alternative for MRD analysis.

Methods

Seventy‐eight bone marrow samples from 29 children at diagnosis and day 15, 29, and 78 during treatment were analyzed forMRDwithFACSand with quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Fusion transcriptMRDwas defined as theETV6–RUNX1/GUSBratio at the follow‐up time point (day 15/29/78) divided with theETV6–RUNX1/GUSBratio at diagnosis (%).

Results

MRDanalysis withFACSand withRT‐qPCRofETV6–RUNX1fusion transcript showed strong correlation. All cases showed concordant results at the treatment stratifying time points day 29 and day 78, when comparing the two methods with a cutoff set to 0.1%.

Conclusion

RT‐qPCRis a valuable addition and could also be an alternative toFACSin cases whereFACSis not achievable forMRDanalysis.
Serum cholesterol and risk of lower urinary tract symptoms progression: Results from the Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events study
Authors: Feng Tom , Howard Lauren E , Vidal Adriana C , Moreira Daniel M , Castro‐Santamaria Ramiro , Andriole Gerald L , Freedland Stephen J
Published: December 2016

Objective

To determine if cholesterol is a risk factor for the development of lower urinary tract symptoms in asymptomatic men.

Methods

A post‐hoc analysis of the Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events (REDUCE) study was carried out in 2323 men with baseline International Prostate Symptom Score <8 and not taking benign prostatic hyperplasia or cholesterol medications. Cox proportion models were used to test the association between cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein, low‐density lipoprotein and the cholesterol : high‐density lipoprotein ratio with incident lower urinary tract symptoms, defined as first report of medical treatment, surgery or two reports of an International Prostate Symptom Score >14.

Results

A total of 253 men (10.9%) developed incident lower urinary tract symptoms. On crude analysis, higher high‐density lipoprotein was associated with a decreased lower urinary tract symptoms risk (hazard ratio 0.89, P = 0.024), whereas total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein showed no association. After multivariable adjustment, the association between high‐density lipoprotein and incident lower urinary tract symptoms remained significant (hazard ratio 0.89, P = 0.044), whereas no association was observed for low‐density lipoprotein (P = 0.611). There was a trend for higher cholesterol to be linked with higher lower urinary tract symptoms risk, though this was not statistically significant (hazard ratio 1.04, P = 0.054). A higher cholesterol : high‐density lipoprotein ratio was associated with increased lower urinary tract symptoms risk on crude (hazard ratio 1.11, P = 0.016) and adjusted models (hazard ratio 1.12, P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Among asymptomatic men participating in the REDUCE study, higher cholesterol was associated with increased incident lower urinary tract symptoms risk, though the association was not significant. A higher cholesterol : high‐density lipoprotein ratio was associated with increased incident lower urinary tract symptoms, whereas higher high‐density lipoprotein was protective. These findings suggest dyslipidemia might play a role in lower urinary tract symptoms progression.
Role of coagulation factors in urological malignancy: A prospective, controlled study on prostate, renal and bladder cancer
Authors: Alevizopoulos Aristeidis , Tyritzis Stavros , Leotsakos Ioannis , Anastasopoulou Ioanna , Pournaras Christos , Kotsis Paraskevi , Katsarou Olga , Alamanis Christos , Stravodimos Konstantinos , Constantinides Constantinos
Published: December 2016

Objectives

To study the behavior of specific coagulation factors in different types of non‐metastatic urological cancers, and to identify their possible role as diagnostic and prognostic markers.

Methods

This was a prospective controlled study, which included three cancer patient groups and a control group of healthy individuals. The cancer subgroups consisted of renal (n = 44), prostate (n = 56) and bladder cancer (n = 47). We excluded patients receiving anticoagulant therapy, or with significant comorbidity. In all patients, certain coagulation parameters were measured (prothrombin time, international normalized ratio, partial thromboplastin time, D‐dimers, fibrinogen, F1 + 2, thrombin–antithrombin complex). Statistical analysis was carried out to explore the association of hemostasis markers with tumor–nodes–metastasis stage, Gleason score, transitional cell carcinoma grade, Fuhrman grade and prostate‐specific antigen.

Results

Our final sample consisted in 58 control patients and 147 patients with urological cancer. We found specific patterns of increased coagulation factors in the different cancers that were statistically significant. Renal cancer showed increased levels of D‐dimers, partial thromboplastin time and fibrinogen. D‐dimers and fibrinogen were increased in prostate cancer; whereas in bladder cancer, only fibrinogen was elevated. Correlations were found between certain factors and tumor stage and grading, with D‐dimers being independently associated with higher tumor grade. Thrombin–antithrombin complex was associated with Gleason score. Furthermore, D‐dimers, fibrinogen and F1 + 2 were associated with higher tumor stages (II–IV).

Conclusions

The coagulation pathway seems to be activated in urological malignancies. Specific panels of coagulation factors might play a role as screening or prognostic tools in earlier stages of renal, prostate and bladder cancer. Further research should also focus on their role in the association of cancer with thromboembolic events.
La arquitectura de la gobernanza mundial del trabajo
Authors: HENDRICKX Frank , MARX Axel , RAYP Glenn , WOUTERS Jan
Published: December 2016

En esta introducción al número monográfico se sitúa la arquitectura de la gobernanza mundial del trabajo en el contexto de la globalización y se analiza el panorama jurídico teniendo en cuenta los recientes incidentes y debates. Los autores ofrecen una visión general de los mecanismos mundiales de protección de los derechos en el trabajo, que clasifican según tres modalidades: la intergubernamental basada en la labor de la OIT, las iniciativas intergubernamentales destinadas a las empresas multinacionales, y las iniciativas privadas basadas en la responsabilidad social de las empresas. Dan cuenta de las aportaciones de los diferentes artículos del número y concluyen analizando las brechas de control existentes.
Derechos laborales en la economía mundial. ¿Podrían los nuevos acuerdos comerciales y de inversión de los Estados Unidos promover las normas internacionales del trabajo en Bangladesh?
Authors: BROWN Ronald C.
Published: December 2016

El gran potencial de los acuerdos internacionales de libre comercio y de inversión para mejorar las condiciones de trabajo está lejos de materializarse. Las disposiciones laborales del reciente acuerdo entre los Estados Unidos y la República de Corea suponen una clara mejora respecto de anteriores acuerdos, pero serán ineficaces, según el autor, porque hacen referencia a derechos enmarcados en la Declaración de la OIT de 1998 y no en los convenios fundamentales en que esta se basa. Los mecanismos de control del cumplimiento también son cuestionables. El autor examina alternativas para que estos acuerdos contribuyan verdaderamente a mejorar las condiciones de trabajo en todo el mundo.
Disposiciones laborales en acuerdos comerciales de la UE. Potencial para canalizar la creación de capacidad relativa a las normas del trabajo
Authors: EBERT Franz Christian
Published: December 2016

Las disposiciones laborales de los acuerdos comerciales de la UE son de eficacia limitada como medio de hacer cumplir normas del trabajo en las jurisdicciones de las partes, pero, según el autor, pueden servir otros fines al respecto, en concreto si se utilizan como marco para canalizar actividades de creación de capacidad en relación con las normas del trabajo a través de los instrumentos de cooperación para el desarrollo de la Unión. Se examinan alternativas para aumentar la eficacia potencial de las disposiciones laborales a dicho efecto modificando su diseño y, en particular, reduciendo la discreción de las partes en lo que respecta a las modalidades de aplicación.