bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short communication. Control of American foulbrood disease in Argentine commercial apiaries through the use of queens selected for hygienic behaviour
Authors: Basualdo M. , Figini E. , Torres J. , Tabera A. , Libonatti C. , Bedascarrasbure E.
Published: November 2013

American foulbrood (AFB), caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae is a serious disease of honey bees worldwide that inflicts considerable economic losses on beekeepers. The aim of this investigation was to determine the spread of AFB in a commercial apiary headed by queens selected for hygienic behaviour (HB), and to estimate the agreement between microbiological methods for the isolation of P. larvae from honey samples (HS) or bee samples (BS). All work was undertaken in a commercial apiary that showed visual signs of AFB infection. Hives positive for AFB were isolated from the apiary and the queens of the remaining hives replaced by others selected for HB. The prevalence of AFB was then recorded by monitoring visual signs of the disease, and via the isolation of P. larvae spores from HS and BS. The hives showed no clinical signs of AFB although HS testing showed 50% to harbour P. larvae spores after one year. This percentage decreased to 26% by the end of the study. The spore loads of the HS and BS were low (between 0.33 and 5 CFU/plate for HS and 0.33 and 12 CFU/plate for BS). No agreement was seen between the two microbiological isolation methods as assessed by the Kappa coefficient (P > 0.05). Sixty percent false negatives were recorded for the HS method. The BS method was more sensitive and is the best option for the early diagnosis of AFB; this, plus the use of HB lines may be sufficient for the control of this disease.
The effect of a 6 Fr catheter in women: Are they obstructive?
Authors: Richard Patrick , Ordonez Nydia Icaza , Tu Le Mai
Published: November 2013

Objectives: Our objective was to evaluate the effect of a 6 Fr transurethral catheter on the uroflowmetry and to assess whether it potentially contributes to the bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in women.Methods: We reviewed the charts of 1367 women who underwent an urodynamic study. We included patients with a non-invasive free-flow study (NIFFS) and pressure flow study (PFS) performed through a 6 Fr double lumen transurethral catheter.Results: In total, 120 women met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Mean maximal flow rate (Qmax) was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the NIFFS (27.2±11.1 mL/s) than in the PFS (19.3±10.6 mL/s). The mean difference between both Qmax was 7.9±12.0 mL/s. Of these women, 92.3% (24/26) with a Qmax <12 mL/s during PFS were found to have a Qmax ≥12 mL/s during the NIFFS. Ten of the 72 women with an available Pdet.Qmax were deemed to have a BOO according to the PFS and all of them had a Qmax >12 mL/s during the NIFFS. Of the 10 patients, only 2 reported obstructive symptoms.Conclusion: The presence of 6 Fr transurethral catheters alters the PFS and results in a significant reduction of the Qmax in patients who voided more than 250 mL. We believe that NIFFS should be performed in all patients before any urethral manipulation to lower a possible overdiagnosis of BOO and findings should always be correlated to clinical symptoms.
Urosurgery: Steve Jobs would have supported a name change for our specialty
Authors: Beiko Darren , Siemens D. Robert
Published: November 2013

Not applicable.
Cost-effectiveness of dutasteride-tamsulosin combination therapy for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia: A Canadian model based on the CombAT trial
Authors: Ismaila Afisi , Walker Anna , Sayani Amyn , Laroche Bruno , Nickel J. Curtis , Posnett John , Su Zhen
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is common in men 50 years old and older. The main treatment options are alpha-blockers (such as tamsulosin), which reduce symptoms, and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (such as dutasteride), which reduce symptoms and slow disease progression. Clinical studies have demonstrated that dutasteride-tamsulosin combination therapy is more effective than either monotherapy to treat symptomatic BPH. We studied the cost-effectiveness in Canada of the dutasteride (0.5 mg/day) and tamsulosin (0.4 mg/day) combination compared with tamsulosin or dutasteride monotherapy.Methods: A Markov model was developed which follows a cohort of male BPH patients ≥50 with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The model estimates costs to the Canadian health care system and outcomes (in terms of quality adjusted life years [QALYs]) at 10 years and over a patient’s lifetime. The dutasteride-tamsulosin combination was compared to each of tamsulosin monotherapy and dutasteride monotherapy.Results: Compared with tamsulosin, the combination was more costly and produced better patient outcomes. Over a lifetime, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was CAN$25 437 per QALY gained. At a willingness to pay CAN$50 000 per QALY, the probability of combination therapy being cost-effective was 99.6%. Compared with dutasteride, the combination therapy was the dominant option from year 2, offering improved patient outcomes at lower cost. The probability that combination therapy is more cost-effective than dutasteride was 99.8%.Conclusion: Combination therapy offers important clinical benefits for patients with symptomatic BPH, and there is a high probability that it is cost-effective in the Canadian health care system relative to either monotherapy.
Mimickers and tumours in the lower urinary tract: Need for a more efficient vigilance?
Authors: Metcalfe Peter D , Bascom Alex , Sergi Consolato
Published: November 2013

Lower urinary tract symptoms are common in pediatric urology, but an a typical presentation may portend significant pathophysiology. We present 5 cases of young males with a sudden change in urinary symptoms, which resulted in the discovery of a variety of benign bladder tumours. We present the clinical, radiologic and histologic findings of these cases emphasizing on mimickers in clinics. Although rare tumours, these may be increasing in frequency and pediatric care may further be enhanced by the development of a multinational registry.
Improved Wait Time Intervals for Prostate Cancer Patients in a Multi-Disciplinary Rapid Diagnostic Unit Compared to a Community-Based Referral Pattern
Authors: Sethukavalan Perakaa , Zhang Liying , Jethava Vibhuti , Stevens Christiaan , Flax Stanley , Buckley Roger , Bondy Susan , Loblaw Andrew
Published: November 2013

Background: Wait times in cancer diagnosis and treatment may significantly affect a patient’s treatment outcome, prognosis and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to capture wait time intervals for patients with prostate cancer treated with radiotherapy (RT) at the Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada and to compare patients diagnosed in a rapid diagnostic unit (RDU) versus the usual community referral process.Methods: Patients agreed to participate in the study during their RT planning sessions. A semi-structured interview and chart abstraction was conducted to record key wait time milestones.Results: A total of 87 patients participated in the study: 44 RDU patients and 43 community patients. The median overall wait time intervals from suspicion of prostate cancer to RT was 138 and 183 days, respectively (p = 0.046). There were statistically significant differences observed for other key wait time intervals favouring the RDU cohort: suspicion to decision-to-treat (DTT; p = 0.012), urologist visit to diagnosis (p = 0.0094), diagnosis to DTT (p = 0.018), and diagnosis to treatment (p = 0.016). Risk category and Gleason sum was independently predictive of longer intervals from diagnosis to DTT.Interpretation: Wait time intervals from suspicion to treatment are significantly shorter for prostate cancer patients in 2011 to 2012 than in 2003 when patients were diagnosed and referred in the community setting. A prostate-specific RDU further reduced a number of key wait time intervals supporting more multidisciplinary RDUs for common diseases. Further work needs to be done to identify why delays are occurring and to develop new processes to minimize delays.
Assessment of Antibiotic Prophylaxis Prescribing Patterns for TURP: A Need for Canadian Guidelines?
Authors: Lawson Keith A. , Rudzinski Jan K. , Vicas Ingrid , Carlson Kevin V.
Published: November 2013

Background: While antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended to all patients undergoing transurethral resection of prostate (TURP), little data exist regarding prescribing patterns of urologists prior to this procedure. Here, we sought to determine real-world antibiotic prophylaxis prescribing patterns at a high volume Canadian institution and determine compliance rates to recommendations put forth by the American Urological Association’s (AUA) Best Practice Statement (BPS) on antimicrobial prophylaxis.Methods: A retrospective chart review of 488 patients undergoing TURP was conducted. Electronic medical records were reviewed to determine antibiotics prescribed 3 hours preoperatively and 24 hours postoperatively. For patients without a catheter, compliance was defined as those receiving an antibiotic prior to TURP. In patients with an indwelling catheter, compliance was defined as those receiving antibiotics from two different classes prior to surgery.Results: Overall, a total of 30 antibiotic regimens were utilized.The most common single antibiotic regimens prescribed were ciprofloxacin (32%), cefazolin (25%) and gentamicin (3%). In those patients with indwelling Foley catheters prior to TURP, a significant increase in gentamicin, as well as combination antibiotic regimens, was noted. The compliance rate with the AUA BPS in patients without a preoperative catheter was 81%, while the compliance rate for patients with an indwelling catheter prior to TURP was 37%.Interpretation: Collectively, our results demonstrate that prescribing patterns vary significantly prior to TURP, with compliance to AUA BPS being lower than anticipated. Overall, these results support educational efforts in this area, and the development of Canadian
Morphological Characterization of Mulberry (Morus spp.) Accessions Grown in Kenya
Authors: Peris Nderitu Wangari , Gacheri Kinyua Mirriam , Theophillus Mutui Mwendwa , Lucas Ngode
Published: November 2013

Genetic divergence of five mulberry accessions including Embu, Thika, Thailand (M. alba), Kanva-2 and S41 (M. indica) grown in Kenya were examined using twelve phenotypic traits. The assessment of phenotypic traits was done in a field study in two localities, Nairobi and Eldoret. The traits that were significantly different across the mulberry accessions included lamina width and petiole length (P ? 0.01), petiole width and growth height (P ? 0.05), internodes distance and number of branches (P ? 0.001). The Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) results were used to generate a dendrogram derived from hierarchical cluster analysis that further partitioned the mulberry accessions into four groups. Embu and Thailand accessions grouped together while S41, Thika and Kanva-2 accessions grouped separately. Embu and Thailand accessions were characterized by fewer numbers of branches than the rest of the accessions. Thika accession had high number of branches and short internode distance. Significant and positive correlations were found between leaf yield traits except in internode distance and number of branches which were significant and negatively correlated. Significant and positive correlations can be utilized since they are rewarding for mulberry leaf yield improvement.
The “bagel head” cosmetic modification: myths and medical complications for dermatologists to consider
Authors: Bosmia Anand N. , Griessenauer Christoph J. , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: November 2013

On September 23, 2012, the television program Taboo on the National Geographic Channel featured individuals in Tokyo undergoing the “bagel head” cosmetic modification. Dermatologists may encounter patients who undergo the bagel head procedure and subsequently present with a cutaneous infection. The purpose of this article is to delineate the bagel head procedure, note responses to sensationalist claims made by the media about this procedure, and discuss potential medical complications from this procedure. Specialists and primary care physicians who encounter reports of a specific extreme body modification for the first time should review discussions of the modification by its critics and advocates in order to assess potential medical complications from the procedure more accurately.
The halo split skin graft in the management of non-melanoma skin cancer of the leg: a retrospective study
Authors: Fietz Danika , Sivyer Graham , O'Brien Denis , Rosendahl Cliff
Published: November 2013

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the results of the halo split skin graft (HSSG) by two primary care skin cancer practitioners at one clinic at the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia, to the results of the only previous study while adding to the body of evidence regarding use of the HSSG following excision of non-melanoma skin cancer on the leg.

Method: A retrospective review of the notes (Jan 2010-Aug 2012) was performed of all cases of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) excisions in which split skin graft (SSG) closure with the HSSG was utilized on the leg.

Results: There were a total of 68 HSSGs included over the 31 months of the study. Average lesion size was 19.4 mm (range 9-75 mm) and the average age of patients was 78 years (range 49-95 years) with 49% of patients being male. The average healing time was 4 weeks with 35/68 (51%) healing within 14 to 21 days. The overall infection rate was 8/68 (11.8%), which decreased to 4/53 (7.5%) when the ankle grafts were excluded. The graft failure rate was 7/68 (10%) with 3/68 (4.4%) having both infection and graft failure.

Limitations: This was a retrospective study.

Conclusion: The HSSG confines the surgical wounds to a single site, does not require specialized equipment and it is an economical and effective option for managing NMSC on the leg in situations where skin graft is indicated.
A rare case of syphilis associated with renal and hepatic involvement
Authors: Laurentiu Tatu Alin , Popescu Maria , Rotarescu Radu , Dorina Popescu Sanda
Published: November 2013

We present an unusual case of syphilis that despite starting treatment with penicillin has evolved with renal complications. Due to glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome the case required shared care between the renal physician and dermatologist. Doctors of different specialties need to keep in mind that early syphilis can have visceral involvement and patients might need prompt, specific therapeutic intervention.
Os diques costeiros básicos e ultrabásicos adjacentes ao Canal de São Sebastião (Litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo)
Authors: Garda Gianna Maria , Schorscher Johann Hans Daniel
Published: November 2013

As porções do Complexo Costeiro adjacentes ao Canal de São Sebastião (litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo) são cortadas por diques máficos de composição básica a intermediária, lamprófiros e traquitos. Os primeiros têm sido correlacionados com os basaltos da Bacia do Paraná, enquanto os lamprófiros são expressões de magmatismo alcalino diferente daquele ocorrido há aproximadamente 80 Ma nas ilhas de São Sebastião, Búzios, Vitória e Montão de Trigo. Este último caracteriza-se por termos mais ácidos, associando-se traquitos e raros fonólitos. O magmatismo básico-ultrabásico alcalino representado pelos lamprófiros estendese ao longo do litoral de São Paulo e do Rio de Janeiro, sendo independente e provavelmente mais antigo que os stocks e maciços alcalinos.
Novas ocorrências de fósseis nas formações Corumbataí e Estrada Nova do Estado de São Paulo e considerações preliminares sobre seus significados paleontológico e bioestratigráfico
Authors: Maranhão Maria da Saudade A. S. , Petri Setembrino
Published: November 2013

O presente trabalho discute ocorrências e posicionamento estratigráfico dos fósseis das formações Corumbataí e Estrada Nova, incluindo espongiários (espículas), ostracodes, microvertebrados (dentes e escamas de paleoniscídeos), estromatólitos, oogônios de carófitas e bivalves que compõem as associações fossilíferas presentes nessas formações. A análise micropaleontológica permitiu: 1) classificar espículas de espongiários como oxeas monoxônidas características da Classe Demospôngia da Ordem Haplosclerida; 2) identificar dezesseis gêneros e vinte e três espécies novas de ostracodes, com base na morfologia externa da carapaça; 3) identificar dez morfotipos de ictiodontes e quatro tipos de escamas de paleoniscídeos; 4) descrever ocorrência de oogônios de carófitas, com os espécimes isolados, pela primeira vez, da rocha matriz. Considera-se a possibilidade das carófitas serem fósseis-índices do topo do Membro Teresina da Formação Estrada Nova, pois apresentam posição estratigráfica restrita e ampla distribuição geográfica. O estudo dos bivalves foi estendido para áreas pouco conhecidas, incluindo as regiões de Santa Cruz das Palmeiras, Tambaú, Porangaba, Angatuba, Guareí, Taguaí e Fartura para mostrar que o zoneamento bioestratigráfico proposto para a região de Rio Claro é válido também para outras áreas de São Paulo. As biozonas apresentam ampla distribuição geográfica como no caso da Zona Pinzonella neotropica-Jacquesia brasiliensis que vai do nordeste ao sudoeste do Estado. As características litológicas, petrográficas e estruturas sedimentares associadas às feições tafonômicas e paleoecológicas dos bioclastos mostraram que a maioria dos fósseis das formações Corumbataí e Estrada Nova não correspondem a deposições in situ, mas foram transportados e redepositados durante sucessivos eventos de tempestades.
O Subgrupo Itararé, Permocarbonífero da região do médio Tietê, Estado de São Paulo: estudos em subsuperfície
Authors: Petri Setembrino , Vieira Percy Corrêa , Oda Geraldo Hideo , Botelho Pedro Fernandes
Published: November 2013

A presente contribuição enfoca poços perfurados pelo Instituto Geológico da Secretaria do Meio Ambiente do Estado de São Paulo (IG-SMA), na região do Médio Rio Tietê, Estado de São Paulo. Os referidos poços atravessaram sedimentos do Subgrupo Itararé, Permocarbonífero da Bacia do Paraná. Alguns poços cortaram intrusivas básicas de idade cretácica. Para efeito de comparações das colunas sedimentares, recuperadas através de testemunhagem completa, os poços foram grupados de acordo com as respectivas situações geográficas em relação à borda atual da Bacia Sedimentar do Paraná: I - poços situados até a distância de cerca de 30 km da borda da bacia; II - poços situados na região Capivari-Rafard; III - poços situados no vale do rio Tietê, ao redor da cidade de Tietê e dos distritos de Sete Fogões e Jumirim; IV - poço localizado em Mombuca, situado a cerca de 10 km a noroeste de Capivari. Pormenores das sucessões litológicas e da produtividade dos poços permitem ressaltar diferenças entre estas regiões.
Relações tectônicas do magmatismo alcalino do Paraguai Oriental
Authors: Velázquez Victor Femandez , Riccomini Claudio , Gomes Celso de Barros , Figueredo Lucia de , Figueredo Carlos
Published: November 2013

O magmatismo alcalino no Paraguai está distribuído em seis províncias (Alto Paraguai, Rio Apa, Amambay, Central, Mísiones e Assunção), com idades variando entre o Permo-Triássico e o Eoceno. Estas províncias, em quase sua totalidade localizadas no Paraguai Oriental, estão freqüentemente associadas com feições estruturais maiores, principalmente falhas, com expressão magnética e/ou gravimétrica. Este artigo objetiva integrar os dados geológicos e geofisicos disponíveis de modo a se estabelecer, numa primeira aproximação, os controles tectônicos do magmatismo alcalino do Paraguai.
Measurement of Arginine Metabolites: Regulators of Nitric Oxide Metabolism
Authors: Augustine Molly S. , Rogers Lynette K.
Published: November 2013

Arginine is the substrate for nitric oxide synthases (NOS), and arginine availability regulates the production of nitric oxide. Through the activity of methyltransferases, arginine can be methylated to form monomethylarginine (NMMA), asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA), and symmetrical dimethylarginine (SDMA). NMMA and ADMA directly inhibit NOS, whereas SDMA inhibits the cellular import of arginine through the cationic amino acid transporter. Increased levels of methylarginine compounds have been associated with many diseases including atherosclerosis, renal failure, pulmonary hypertension, and preeclampsia. Previous HPLC methods to measure these molecules rely on derivatization with ortho‐phthalaldehyde, which is unstable and requires immediate pre‐ or post‐column reactions. We have identified a new fluorometric agent that is stable for at least 1 week and provides chromatographic properties that facilitate separation of these chemically similar compounds by reverse phase chromatography. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 58:17.16.1‐17.16.9. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Pathogenesis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: Additional clues regarding the involvement of the endothelin system
Authors: Mesdag Violette , Andrieux Joris , Coulon Capucine , Pennaforte Thomas , Storme Laurent , Manouvrier‐Hanu Sylvie , Petit Florence
Published: November 2013

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) has an incidence of around 1/3,000 births. The pathogenesis of this developmental anomaly remains largely unknown and the description of small chromosomal imbalances in cases of CDH is of major interest for the identification of candidate genes. We report on a tandem 4q31.23 triplication encompassing the EDNRA gene identified by array‐CGH in a male presenting an isolated left postero‐lateral CDH. This copy number variation was inherited from the asymptomatic father, carrier of a size‐identical duplication. We demonstrate that EDNRA mRNA is over‐expressed in the proband in blood tissue. Consistent with the expression of EDNRA in the developing diaphragm and the observation that the endothelin system is up‐regulated in human and animal models of CDH, we conclude that the EDNRA triplication may be the cause of CDH in our patient. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of antifouling polyamide thin‐film composite membranes modified with amino‐cyclodextrins and diethylamino‐cyclodextrins for water treatment
Authors: Mbuli Bhekani S. , Nxumalo Edward N. , Mhlanga Sabelo D. , Krause Rui W. , Pillay Visvanathan L. , Oren Yoram , Linder Charles , Mamba Bhekie B.
Published: November 2013

The fouling behavior of polyamide thin‐film composite (TFC) membranes modified with amino‐ and diethylamino‐cyclodextrins (CDs) through an in situ interfacial polymerization process is reported. Modified polyamide TFC membranes exhibited improved hydrophilicity, water permeability, and fouling resistance as compared to the unmodified TFC membranes, while restricting the passage of NaCl salt (98.46 ± 0.5%). The increase in hydrophilicity was attributed to the secondary and tertiary hydroxyl groups of the CDs, which were not aminated. The membranes modified with amino‐CDs had increased surface roughness while the membranes modified with diethylamino‐CDs had smoother surfaces. However, despite the surface roughness of the membranes modified with amino‐CDs, low fouling was observed due to the highly hydrophilic surfaces, which superseded the roughness. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40109.
Polyethersulfone/polyetherethersulfone copolymers with the same chemical composition and different melt‐viscosity
Authors: Zhou Xiaoming , Liu Baijun , Jiang Zhenhua , Yue Xigui
Published: November 2013

Random, block, and alternative polyethersulfone/polyetherethersulfone copolymers (phenyl: ether: sulfone =7 : 4 : 3) with similar molecular weights and polydispersity were synthesized using different synthetic strategies. DSC and DMA analyses indicated that all copolymers are amorphous and possess extremely close glass transition temperature. The random copolymer displayed higher modulus and complex viscosity. It is interesting to find that the alternative copolymer exhibited a melt viscosity of 281 Pa s, which is much lower than that of the block copolymer (646 Pa s) and the random copolymer (1641 Pa s) at 4 s−1. Moreover, the alternative copolymer showed obviously higher elongation at break of 101.9%. These behaviors were highly related to their different sequence distribution. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40149.
Imparting antimicrobial properties to natural rubber latex foam via green synthesized silver nanoparticles
Authors: Rathnayake Indrajith , Ismail Hanafi , Azahari Baharin , De Silva Channa , Darsanasiri Nalin
Published: November 2013

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in centrifuged natural rubber latex (NRL) by in situ reduction of silver nitrate by NRL is described. The synthesis of AgNP within NRL was successfully carried out without the addition of any reducing agent or stabilizers. The modified AgNP incorporated with centrifuged NRL (GAgNP_NRL) was used to make NRL foam (NRLF) by the Dunlop production method. An ultraviolet–visible (UV‐Vis) spectrophotometer analysis, Zeta potential analysis data and transmission electron micrograph analysis proved that the modified centrifuged NRL consisted of stable nanometer‐sized silver particles. A scanning electron microscopic (SEM)/energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis and UV‐Vis analysis of a latex film made out of the modified GAgNP_NRL compound showed nano‐sized silver particles inside the rubber matrix. The final product of the NRLF (GAgNP_NRLF) made out of the GAgNP_NRL compound was tested for antimicrobial properties against gram‐negative Escherichia coli, gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The resultant GAgNP_NRLF strongly inhibited the bacteria. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40155.
In situ polymerizations of thiophene on TiO2 films using the semiconductors as initiators
Authors: Wei Zongzhao , Zou Cheng , Ni Xiuyuan
Published: November 2013

In this work, we prepare the TiO2 nanoparticle film and anatase TiO2 nanoarray film, and we achieve the polymerizations of thiophene using the photoexcited TiO2 film as the initiators. It is measured that the in situ polymerizations of thiophene take place on the surfaces of the two films. The growth of polythiophene (PTh) on the TiO2 nanoarray is monitored using Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy. The TiO2 nanoarray is found to strongly interact with the PTh polymers. It is observed using scanning electron microscope that the microspores in the nanoarray are filled by the polymers after the reaction of 3 h, and the nanoarray is fully covered by the polymer layer when the polymerization lasts for 5 h. The PTh–TiO2 nanoarray composite films are measured for the transient photocurrents and photocurrent‐voltage characteristics. The dependence of the photocurrents on the reaction time is revealed and discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40187.
Assessing the relationships among tag syntax, semantics, and perceived usefulness
Authors: Jörgensen Corinne , Stvilia Besiki , Wu Shuheng
Published: November 2013

With the recent interest in socially created metadata as a potentially complementary resource for image description in relation to established tools such as thesauri and other forms of controlled vocabulary, questions remain about the quality and reuse value of these metadata. This study describes and examines a set of tags using quantitative and qualitative methods and assesses relationships among categories of image tags, tag assignment order, and users' perceptions of usefulness of index terms and user‐contributed tags. The study found that tags provide much descriptive information about an image but that users also value and trust controlled vocabulary terms. The study found no correlation between tag length and assignment order, and tag length and its perceived usefulness. The findings of this study can contribute to the design of controlled vocabularies, indexing processes, and retrieval systems for images. In particular, the findings of the study can advance the understanding of image tagging practices, tag facet/category distributions, relative usefulness and importance of these categories to the user, and potential mechanisms for identifying useful terms.
The “academic trace” of the performance matrix: A mathematical synthesis of the h‐index and the integrated impact indicator (I3)
Authors: Ye Fred Y. , Leydesdorff Loet
Published: November 2013

The h‐index provides us with 9 natural classes which can be written as a matrix of 3 vectors. The 3 vectors are: X = (X1, X2, X3) and indicates publication distribution in the h‐core, the h‐tail, and the uncited ones, respectively; Y = (Y1, Y2, Y3) denotes the citation distribution of the h‐core, the h‐tail and the so‐called “excess” citations (above the h‐threshold), respectively; and Z = (Z1, Z2, Z3) = (Y1‐X1, Y2‐X2, Y3‐X3). The matrix V = (X,Y,Z)T constructs a measure of academic performance, in which the 9 numbers can all be provided with meanings in different dimensions. The “academic trace” tr(V) of this matrix follows naturally, and contributes a unique indicator for total academic achievements by summarizing and weighting the accumulation of publications and citations. This measure can also be used to combine the advantages of the h‐index and the integrated impact indicator (I3) into a single number with a meaningful interpretation of the values. We illustrate the use of tr(V) for the cases of 2 journal sets, 2 universities, and ourselves as 2 individual authors.
Bacterial Toxins: Genetics, Cellular Biology and Practical Applications. Edited by Thomas Proft.
Authors: Weiss Alison
Published: November 2013

Caister Academic, Norwich, 2013, VIII+234 pp., hardcover, £ 159.00.—ISBN 978‐1‐908230‐28‐7
Clinical impact of paravalvular leaks on biomarkers and survival after transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Schewel Dimitry , Frerker Christian , Schewel Jury , Wohlmuth Peter , Meincke Felix , Thielsen Thomas , Kreidel Felix , Kuck Karl‐Heinz , Schäfer Ulrich
Published: November 2013

Background

There is accumulating evidence that up to 20% of the implanted devices after TAVI are associated with a significant degree of paravalvular leaks, which appear to be associated with a negative clinical outcome.

Methods

A total of 355 patients with severe aortic valvular stenosis (AVS) were treated by TAVI (Corevalve n = 222, Edwards Sapien n = 133). Survival, NT‐proBNP and the grade of PVL were quantified up to 12 months after implantation.

Results

Technical success rate was 97.8%. Thirty‐day mortality was 9.6%. Post‐procedural transvalvular aortic regurgitation was seen only in a minority of cases (5%), whereas PVL were frequently observed (grade: <1+ in 58.2%, ≥1–<2 in 33.9%, and ≥2 in 7.9%). There was a clear relation‐ship between PVL and adverse outcome (P < 0.001). After a transient increase, NT‐proBNP showed a significant decline. Interestingly, a PVL ≥2+ was associated with a much higher rise in NT‐proBNP compared to the other groups (P < 0.01), and a post‐procedural increase in NT‐proBNP by more than 1640 ng L−1 within 5 days was associated with a significant increase in rate of death (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

TAVI is an efficient treatment option for high‐risk patients with severe AVS. The incidence of PVL is an inacceptable clinical problem. Serial measurement of NT‐proBNP can be used for risk‐stratification in patients with a significant PVL. In general, PVL graded ≥2+ is associated with a dramatically increased 6‐month mortality. Therefore, any action to reduce paraprosthetical regurgitation is highly recommended. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inhibition of neo‐intimal hyperplasia in porcine coronary arteries utilizing a novel paclitaxel‐coated scoring balloon catheter
Authors: Cremers Bodo , Schmitmeier Stephanie , Clever Yvonne P. , Gershony Gary , Speck Ulrich , Scheller Bruno
Published: November 2013

Objective: Scoring balloons are particularly useful in the acute treatment of fibro‐calcific, bifurcation and in‐stent restenosis lesions but have not been shown to affect the restenosis rate. Conventional balloons coated with paclitaxel have recently been shown to reduce restenosis rates in certain lesion subsets, but are associated with suboptimal acute results. A novel paclitaxel‐coated scoring balloon was developed to overcome these limitations. Design: AngioSculpt® scoring balloons (SB) were coated with paclitaxel admixed with a specific excipient. Setting and Interventions: Four in vitro and in vivo studies were performed: (a) loss of the drug during passage to the lesion, (b) transfer of the drug to the vessel wall; (c) inhibition of neo‐intimal proliferation in porcine coronary arteries as compared to uncoated SB and the Paccocath™, and (d) evaluation of the dose‐response to 1.5–12 μg of paclitaxel/mm2. Main outcome measures and Results: Drug loss during delivery to the lesion was 17% ± 8%, and transfer to the vessel wall was 9% ± 4% of dose on unused balloons. The paclitaxel‐coated SB resulted in a lower late lumen loss of 0.27 ± 0.24 mm compared to 1.4 ± 0.7 mm with the uncoated SB (P = 0.001). Histomorphometry revealed larger luminal areas of 6.8 ± 1.6 mm2 (paclitaxel‐coated SB) and 5.8 ± 1.7 mm2 (Paccocath) as compared to the uncoated SB (2.3 ± 1.5 mm2; P = 0.001). No coating related adverse effects were observed on follow‐up angiography or histologic examination at the treatment site or downstream myocardium. Conclusion: A novel paclitaxel‐coated SB leads to a significant inhibition of neointimal proliferation in the porcine coronary model. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful transcatheter closure of unusual giant and symptomatic right ventricle to right atrium fistula
Authors: Moszura Tomasz , Surmacz Rafal , Ho Siew Yen , Bobkowski Waldemar
Published: November 2013

We report on a patient with a significantly enlarged right heart caused by a rare right ventricle to right atrium fistula. Cardiac magnetic resonance revealed diagnosis and delineated detailed anatomy of the defect. The shunt was successfully closed with an implantation of Amplatzer Vascular Plug II. We discuss possible causes of this anomaly and its treatment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Z Selectivity: Recent Advances in one of the Current Major Challenges of Olefin Metathesis
Authors: Shahane Saurabh , Bruneau Christian , Fischmeister Cédric
Published: November 2013

The stereoselective formation of carbon–carbon double bonds is a longstanding topic in organic chemistry. Since the early 90s, catalytic olefin metathesis has emerged as a synthetic tool of choice for the creation of carbon–carbon double bonds, and its use is now widespread. However, except for the synthesis of small cycles, the reversible character of olefin metathesis usually results in the formation of the thermodynamic E product, and more generally in mixtures of E and Z products. This issue has been addressed in different ways; these are reviewed herein. Synthetic protocols, which aim at the selective synthesis of Z olefins, for example, sequential alkyne metathesis/cis‐hydrogenation, and the use of removable silyl groups, are summarized. Tailor‐made molybdenum, tungsten and ruthenium catalysts, which allow for very high stereoselectivity, are also reviewed. The advances achieved with these methods and catalysts are illustrated by the synthesis of various natural products or their precursors.
Enantioselective Synthesis and Application to the Allylic Imidate Rearrangement of Amine‐Coordinated Palladacycle Catalysts of Cobalt Sandwich Complexes
Authors: Cassar Doyle J. , Ilyashenko Gennadiy , Ismail Muhammad , Woods James , Hughes David L. , Richards Christopher J.
Published: November 2013

The reaction of (η5‐(N,N‐dimethylaminomethyl)cyclopentadien‐yl)(η4‐tetraphenylcyclobutadiene)cobalt with sodium tetrachloropalladate and (R)‐N‐acetylphenylalanine gave planar chiral palladacycle di‐μ‐chloridebis[(η5‐(Sp)‐2‐(N,N‐dimethylaminomethyl)cyclopentadienyl,1‐C,3′‐N)(η4‐tetraphenylcyclobutadiene)cobalt]dipalladium [(Sp)‐Me2‐CAP‐Cl] in 92 % ee and 64 % yield. Enantiopurity (>98 % ee) was achieved by purification of the monomeric (R)‐proline adducts and conversion back to the chloride dimer. Treatment with AgOAc gave (Sp)‐Me2‐CAP‐OAc which was applied to asymmetric transcyclopalladation (up to 78 % ee). The (R)‐N‐acetylphenylalanine mediated palladation methodology was applicable also to the corresponding N,N‐diethyl (82 % ee, 39 % yield) and pyrrolidinyl (>98 % ee, 43 % yield) cobalt sandwich complexes. A combination of 5 mol % of the latter [(Sp)‐Pyrr‐CAP‐Cl] and AgNO3 (3.8 equiv) is a catalyst for the allylic imidate rearrangement of an (E)‐N‐aryltrifluoroacetimidate (up to 83 % ee), and this catalyst system is also applicable to the rearrangement of a range of (E)‐trichloroacetimidates (up to 99 % ee). This asymmetric efficiency combined with the simplicity of catalyst synthesis provides accessible solutions to the generation of non‐racemic allylic amine derivatives.
Homoleptic Tetrakis(silyl) Complexes of Pd0 and Pt0 Featuring Metal‐Centred Heterocubane Structures: Evidence for the Existence of the Corresponding Mononuclear PdI and PtI Complexes
Authors: Armbruster Felix , Augenstein Timo , Oña‐Burgos Pascual , Breher Frank
Published: November 2013

We report on the first homoleptic tetrakis(silyl) complexes of zerovalent Group 10 metals. The compounds [MLi4{Si(3,5‐Me2pz)3}4] (M=Pd and Pt; 3,5‐Me2pz=3,5‐dimethylpyrazolyl) exhibit very appealing metal‐centred heterocubane structures with the central d10 metal atoms surrounded by four silicon and four lithium atoms. Both compounds were characterised in detail, including X‐ray crystal‐structure analysis and 2D NMR spectroscopic methods such as 7Li,29Si and 7Li,195Pt HMQC. Cyclic voltammetry studies, in combination with density functional theory (DFT) calculations, revealed that the corresponding mononuclear cationic d9‐MI and dicationic d8‐MII complexes are accessible by stepwise one‐electron oxidation of the title compounds. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) investigations provided evidence for the existence of the corresponding paramagnetic palladium(I) and platinum(I) complexes.
ChemInform Abstract: Conjugated Microporous Polymers: Design, Synthesis and Application
Authors: Xu Yanhong , Jin Shangbin , Xu Hong , Nagai Atsushi , Jiang Donglin
Published: November 2013

Review: [114 refs.]
In situ Generation of Superoxide Anion Radical in Aqueous Medium under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Stoin Uri , Shames Alexander I. , Malka Itamar , Bar Ilana , Sasson Yoel
Published: November 2013

In the recent decades superoxide [O2−.] has become the subject of considerable interest. Nonetheless, generation of superoxide compounds is still a substantial challenge. The standard methods for synthesis of superoxide derivatives are either through the oxidation of molten alkali metals with hot air or by using electrolytic reduction of oxygen in aprotic solvent such as dimethylformamide. No methodology is available for the generation of superoxides in protic solutions and particularly not in water. We propose a new in situ method for alkali superoxide preparation by using sodium hydroxide and hydrogen peroxide at room temperature and in aqueous solution.
Liquefaction of Lignocellulosic Biomass: Solvent, Process Parameter, and Recycle Oil Screening
Authors: van Rossum Guus , Zhao Wei , Castellvi Barnes Maria , Lange Jean‐Paul , Kersten Sascha R. A.
Published: November 2013

The liquefaction of lignocellulosic biomass is studied for the production of liquid (transportation) fuels. The process concept uses a product recycle as a liquefaction medium and produces a bio‐oil that can be co‐processed in a conventional oil refinery. This all is done at medium temperature (≈300 °C) and pressure (≈60 bar). Solvent‐screening experiments showed that oxygenated solvents are preferred as they allow high oil (up to 93 % on carbon basis) and low solid yields (≈1–2 % on carbon basis) and thereby outperform the liquefaction of biomass in compressed water and biomass pyrolysis. The following solvent ranking was obtained: guaiacol>hexanoic acid≫n‐undecane. The use of wet biomass results in higher oil yields than dry biomass. However, it also results in a higher operating pressure, which would make the process more expensive. Refill experiments were also performed to evaluate the possibility to recycle the oil as the liquefaction medium. The recycled oil appeared to be very effective to liquefy the biomass and even surpassed the start‐up solvent guaiacol, but became increasingly heavy and more viscous after each refill and eventually showed a molecular weight distribution that resembles that of refinery vacuum residue.
Focus on implementation: Parent‐mediated early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
Authors: Roberts Jacqueline , Dissanayake Cheryl
Published: November 2013

The commentaries in this section refer to the review, Oono IP, Honey EJ, McConachie H. Parent‐mediated early intervention for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2013, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD009774. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD009774.pub2.

Editor's note: Parents of children with autism often have a complicated life. In some cases, because of their child's behavior, they cannot take them to a restaurant or to a movie, let alone on a vacation. Finding child‐care may be impossible. Some children with autism appear to be unhappy much of the time. Most parents would fly to the moon if that would make their child better, but it is our responsibility as clinicians to only assign parents tasks that are likely to benefit their child. In their commentaries, Professors Jacqueline Roberts and Cheryl Dissanayake provide their opinions on the fine art of balancing what we ask parents of autistic children to do.
Enantioselective Squaramide‐Catalysed Domino Mannich–Cyclization Reaction of Isatin Imines
Authors: Wang Xi‐Bo , Li Tian‐Ze , Sha Feng , Wu Xin‐Yan
Published: November 2013

An enantioselective domino reaction of 4‐bromo‐3‐oxobutanoates with isatin‐derived ketimines was developed to construct 3‐amino‐2‐oxindoles with a quaternary stereocentre. In the presence of 1 mol‐% of a bifunctional squaramide organocatalyst, the desired products were achieved in high yields (90–97 %) and with excellent enantioselectivities (92–99 % ee).
Mitochondrial genome variations among arsenic exposed individuals and potential correlation with apoptotic parameters
Authors: Sinha Sharmistha , Giri Ashok K. , Chowdhury Rukhsana , Ray Kunal
Published: November 2013

Exposure to arsenic (As) causes serious health hazards. Therefore, there is a sustained effort to understand the molecular basis of the risk posed by the toxicant. It has been reported that apoptotic changes ensue on exposure to As. To investigate the molecular basis of such changes, we sequenced the entire mitochondrial (mt) genome from PBMC of a subset of these individuals (As‐exposed=16 and unexposed=18) using Affymetrix platform. Our analysis revealed that As exposure does not induce large‐scale mt‐DNA variations, but that specific deleterious changes could induce mt dysfunction. A Glu115Ter mutation as well as 17 other in silico predicted deleterious variants were identified exclusively in exposed individuals. The number of variants in mt Complex I in As‐exposed individuals was positively correlated with their respective intracellular ROS level. In addition, the extent of potentially damaging variants in As‐exposed individuals had significant positive correlation to the degree of G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:70–76, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Are we ready to consider transgenerational epigenetic effects in human health risk assessment?
Authors: Alyea Rebecca A. , Gollapudi B. Bhaskar , Rasoulpour Reza J.
Published: November 2013

Recently, there has been a growing concern that chemically or nutritionally mediated epigenetic changes might lead to adverse health outcomes. The natural question is whether the existing chemical safety assessment paradigm is or is not protective of epigenetic‐mediated effects, and if there is a need to incorporate new endpoints to specifically address epigenetics. Of particular interest are transgenerational epigenetic effects, which can be passed on through multiple generations. To investigate these questions, a comparison was performed between OECD guideline rat toxicology studies versus several rat transgenerational epigenetic studies. This analysis focused on vinclozolin owing to the availability of a comprehensive suite of dose‐response data (NOAEL, reference dose, and human exposure estimates) for both conventional and epigenetic endpoints. This analysis revealed that vinclozolin transgenerational effects were demonstrated at a dose level (100 mg/kg/day) that was: (1) ∼40‐fold higher than the overall lowest‐observed‐adverse‐effect level (LOAEL) from rat guideline studies, (2) ∼80‐fold higher than the lowest NOAEL from rat guideline studies, (3) ∼80,000‐fold higher than the reference dose for the molecule, and (4) ∼1.2‐million fold above human exposure estimates. Through this analysis, we conclude that additional research across a spectrum of doses is necessary to elucidate the interplay between epigenetics and apical endpoints before considering epigenetics in human health risk assessment. Therefore, we recommend focusing future research toward (1) examining for potential causal relationships between epigenetic alterations and adverse apical endpoints, and (2) understanding the dose‐response relationship of these causal epigenetic alterations when compared with those of the apical endpoints. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:292–298, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploring genetic analysis of complex traits through the paradigm of alcohol dependence: Summary of GAW11 contributions
Authors: Almasy Laura , Borecki Ingrid B.
Published: November 2013

We discuss the Genetic Analysis Workshop 11 analyses of data from the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism from a methodological perspective, concentrating on approaches and issues relevant to linkage and association studies of complex human phenotypes. Genome screening by parametric linkage, nonparametric linkage, association, and combined linkage/association methods are discussed. Issues particular to complex disease include etiologic heterogeneity, multivariate phenotype modeling, and parent‐of‐origin effects. Other methodological topics discussed are new and enhanced methods, ascertainment, weighting of nonindependent sib pairs, and data cleaning and validation.
Mapping alcoholism genes using linkage/linkage disequilibrium analysis
Authors: Aragaki Corinne , Quiaoit Filemon , Hsu Li , Zhao Lue Ping
Published: November 2013

Using a recently developed semiparametric method for combined linkage/linkage‐disequilibrium analysis, we analyzed the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism data subset developed for Genetic Analysis Workshop 11 (GAW11). This semiparametric approach estimates recombination fractions for linkage, marker log odds ratios for linkage‐disequilibrium, their product for combined linkage/linkage‐disequilibrium, and corresponding z‐scores. We used two outcomes: alcohol dependence and “alcoholism‐free” and a genome‐wide significance level of 4.1 (which corresponds to a genome‐wide lod score of 3.6). For the alcohol dependence outcome, we observed significant linkage signals at D1S1588–D1S1631, D1S547, D2S399, D2S425, D4S2361, D7S1796, and D7S1824. We also found significant linkage‐disequilibrium signals at D1S547 and D7S1795. For the “alcoholism‐free” outcome, we found significant linkage signals at D4S2457, D41651 (both flank ADH3), D11S2359, and D16S47 and significant linkage‐disequilibrium signals at D4S2361, FABP2, D11S2359, D19S431 and D19S47‐D19S198‐D19S601.