bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dithienobenzothiadiazole‐Based Conjugated Polymer: Processing Solvent‐Relied Interchain Aggregation and Device Performances in Field‐Effect Transistors and Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Huang Jun , Zhu Yongxiang , Chen Junwu , Zhang Lianjie , Peng Junbiao , Cao Yong
Published: October 2014

DTfBT‐Th3, a new conjugated polymer based on dithienobenzothiadiazole and terthiophene, possesses a bandgap of ≈1.86 eV and a HOMO level of −5.27 eV. Due to strong interchain aggregation, DTfBT‐Th3 can not be well dissolved in chloro­benzene (CB) and o‐dichlorobenzene (DCB) at room temperature (RT), but the polymer can be processed from hot CB and DCB solutions of ≈100 °C. In CB, with a lower solvation ability, a certain polymer chain aggregation can be preserved, even in hot solution. DTfBT‐Th3 displays a field‐effect hole mobility of 0.55 cm2 V−1 s−1 when fabricated from hot CB solution, which is higher than that of the device processed from hot DCB (0.16 cm2 V−1 s−1). In DTfBT‐Th3‐based polymer solar cells, a good power conversion efficiency from 5.37% to 6.67% can be achieved with 150−300 nm thick active layers casted from hot CB solution, while the highest efficiency for hot DCB‐processed solar cells is only 5.07%. The results demonstrate that using a solvent with a lower solvation ability, as a “wet control” process, is beneficial to preserve strong interchain aggregation of a conjugated polymer during solution processing, showing great potential to improve its performances in optoelectronic devices.

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Automated slice‐specific simultaneous z‐shim method for reducing B1 inhomogeneity and susceptibility‐induced signal loss with parallel transmission at 3T
Authors: Schneider Rainer , Boada Fernando , Haueisen Jens , Pfeuffer Josef
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Through‐plane susceptibility‐induced signal loss in gradient recalled echo (GRE)‐based sequences can considerably impair both the clinical diagnosis and functional analysis of certain brain areas. In this work, a fully automated simultaneous z‐shim approach is proposed on the basis of parallel transmit (pTX) to reduce those signal dropouts at 3T.

Theory and Methods

The approach uses coil‐specific time‐delayed excitations to impose a z‐shim phase. It was extended toward B1 inhomogeneity mitigation and adequate slice‐specific signal‐dephasing cancellation on the basis of the prevailing B0 and B1 spatial information. Local signal recovery level and image quality preservation were analyzed using multi‐slice FLASH experiments in humans and compared to the standard excitation. Spatial blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent (BOLD) activation coverage was further compared in breath‐hold functional MRI.

Results

The pTX z‐shim approach recovered approximately 47% of brain areas affected by signal loss in standard excitation images across all subjects. At the same time, B1 shading effects could be substantially reduced. In these areas, BOLD activation coverage could be also increased by approximately 57%.

Conclusion

The proposed fully automated pTX z‐shim method enables time‐efficient and robust signal recovery in GRE‐based sequences on a clinical scanner using two standard whole‐body transmit coils. Magn Reson Med 74:934–944, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SOCIAL PENSION UNIFICATION IN AN URBANISING CHINA: PATHS AND CONSTRAINTS
Authors: Li Bingqin
Published: October 2014

A fragmented and segmented social protection system can create barriers for labour migration and be socially divisive. A review of the literature on Europe's integration of its social insurance system demonstrates the preconditions for developing an integrated social insurance system. These include political determination, social agreement by the contributors, administrative capacity and financial management ability. In this article, the author explains that there has been an ongoing process of gradual unification of the social insurance system in China. However, this ongoing process has not been able to achieve a universal system for both the rural and urban populations. A recent push towards further unification has been problematic. Not only have difficulties arisen from an unwillingness to implement policies, as often discussed by critics; they are also embedded in a more profound fragmentation of ideas and interests, and in institutional constraints. The author argues that a new, non‐contributory basic pension, together with lowered transaction costs between contributory subsystems, may be a more realistic way forwards. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymeric nanoparticles for therapy and imaging
Authors: He Wenjie , Hosseinkhani Hossein , Mohammadinejad Reza , Roveimiab Ziba , Hueng Dueng‐Yuan , Ou Keng‐Liang , Domb Abraham J.
Published: October 2014

Polymeric nanoparticles and their applications have been studied over the long period. Polymeric nanoparticles have been shown to be promising carriers for drug delivery because of their potential in encapsulating drugs hence protecting them from excretion and metabolism. Different polymers have been used, and different strategies such as surface modification have been carried out to increase the retention time of nanoparticles and to increase therapeutic benefit while minimizing side effects. Here, we review aspects of polymeric nanoparticles and their application in magnetic resonance imaging technology, disease therapy, drug delivery systems, and gene transfer. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What factors are predictive of benefit finding in women treated for non‐metastatic breast cancer? A prospective study
Authors: Wang Yuping , Zhu Xiongzhao , Yang Yanjie , Yi Jinyao , Tang Lili , He Jincai , Chen Gannong , Li Lingyan , Yang Yuling
Published: October 2014

Objective

Patients with breast cancer are able to gain psychological benefits from cancer diagnosis and treatment, such as a greater purpose of life and closer relationships, termed as ‘benefit finding’ (BF). The objective of this study was to determine the effects of sociodemographic, pathological, and psychological variables on BF in women with non‐metastatic breast cancer.

Methods

A total of 404 patients with breast cancer were recruited to complete a demographic survey, a Chinese version of the Benefit Finding Scale, the Optimism‐pessimism Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire during the first week after the confirmation of the diagnosis (T1). All participants finished the Chinese version of the Benefit Finding Scale again 6 weeks after diagnosis (T2).

Results

Age and education of patients, perceived social support from family, acceptance, positive reappraisal, and the baseline level of BF exhibited a positive prediction on BF. Education, pessimism, and perceived social support from family had a positive prediction and perceived social support from friends and refocus on planning had a negative prediction on the family relationship of BF. Education, perceived social support from family and friends, and the baseline level of BF had a positive prediction on the acceptance of BF.

Conclusions

Perceived social support and cognitive emotion regulation strategies employed in response to breast cancer are important contributing factors to BF in women with breast cancer. In order to improve the longer‐term adaptation of patients, benefit finding, either directly or via cognitive emotion regulation strategies, could be targeted for intervention. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic and biomarker studies and neurological complications of pediatric sickle cell disease
Authors: Lance Eboni I. , Casella James F. , Everett Allen D. , Barron‐Casella Emily
Published: October 2014

Biomarker analysis and proteomic discovery in pediatric sickle cell disease has the potential to lead to important discoveries and improve care. The aim of this review article is to describe proteomic and biomarker articles involving neurological and developmental complications in this population. A systematic review was conducted to identify relevant research publications. Articles were selected for children under the age of 21 years with the most common subtypes of sickle cell disease. Included articles focused on growth factors (platelet‐derived growth factor), intra and extracellular brain proteins (glial fibrillary acidic protein, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor), and inflammatory and coagulation markers (interleukin‐1β, l‐selectin, thrombospondin‐1, erythrocyte, and platelet‐derived microparticles). Positive findings include increases in plasma brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and platelet‐derived growth factor with elevated transcranial Dopplers velocities, increases in platelet‐derived growth factor isoform AA with overt stroke, and increases in glial fibrillary acidic protein with acute brain injury. These promising potential neuro‐biomarkers provide insight into pathophysiologic processes and clinical events, but their clinical utility is yet to be established. Additional proteomics research is needed, including broad‐based proteomic discovery of plasma constituents and blood cell proteins, as well as urine and cerebrospinal fluid components, before, during and after neurological and developmental complications.
An efficient analysis of covariance model for crossover thorough QT studies with period‐specific pre‐dose baselines
Authors: Lu Kaifeng
Published: October 2014

Baseline adjustment is an important consideration in thorough QT studies for non‐antiarrhythmic drugs. For crossover studies with period‐specific pre‐dose baselines, we propose a by‐time‐point analysis of covariance model with change from pre‐dose baseline as response, treatment as a fixed effect, pre‐dose baseline for current treatment and pre‐dose baseline averaged across treatments as covariates, and subject as a random effect. Additional factors such as period and sex should be included in the model as appropriate. Multiple pre‐dose measurements can be averaged to obtain a pre‐dose‐averaged baseline and used in the model. We provide conditions under which the proposed model is more efficient than other models. We demonstrate the efficiency and robustness of the proposed model both analytically and through simulation studies. The advantage of the proposed model is also illustrated using the data from a real clinical trial. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seasonal to decadal prediction of the winter North Atlantic Oscillation: emerging capability and future prospects
Authors: Smith Doug M. , Scaife Adam A. , Eade Rosie , Knight Jeff R.
Published: October 2014

European and North American winter weather is dominated by year‐to‐year variations in the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) which controls the direction and speed of the prevailing winds. An ability to forecast the time‐averaged NAO months to years ahead would be of great societal benefit, but current operational seasonal forecasts show little skill. However, there are several elements of the climate system that potentially influence the NAO and may therefore provide predictability for the NAO. We review these potential sources of skill, present emerging evidence that the NAO may be usefully predictable (with correlations exceeding 0.6) on seasonal time‐scales, and discuss prospects for improving skill and extending predictions to multi‐year time‐scales.
Interactive web‐based simulations for strategy and sustainability: The MIT Sloan LearningEdge management flight simulators, Part II
Authors: Sterman John
Published: October 2014

The MIT Sloan School of Management has created a set of interactive, web‐based management flight simulators to teach key ideas in business, strategy, sustainability and related fields. The simulations are freely available through the MIT Sloan LearningEdge portal (mitsloan.mit.edu/LearningEdge). In these notes I describe six simulations available as of 2014. Part I describes Salt Seller (a multiplayer commodity pricing simulation); Eclipsing the Competition (learning curves, using the solar photovoltaic industry as the example); and Platform Wars (competition in the presence of network externalities using the video game industry as the context). Part II describes Fishbanks (the Tragedy of the Commons in the context of renewable resource management, updating the classic game by Dennis Meadows); CleanStart (building a startup firm, with clean tech as an example); and World Climate (an interactive role play of global climate negotiations). Each simulator enables participants to learn experientially about important concepts in management, strategy or sustainability. Each is grounded in a particular industry or firm, and comes with original case studies or briefing material describing the strategic challenges in these settings. Through these simulations, students, executives, policymakers and others can explore the consequences of different strategies so they can learn for themselves about the complex dynamics of important issues. I describe their purpose and use, illustrate their dynamics, and outline the instructor resources available for each. Copyright © 2014 System Dynamics Society
A critical review of African species of Eucyon (Mammalia; Carnivora; Canidae), with a new species from the Pliocene of the Woranso‐Mille Area, Afar Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Werdelin Lars , Lewis Margaret E. , Haile‐Selassie Yohannes
Published: October 2014

Eucyon is a paraphyletic genus of jackal‐sized canids that predated the appearance of true Canis in North America, Eurasia and Africa. In this study, we describe a new species of Eucyon, E. kuta, from the Woranso‐Mille Area, Afar Region, Ethiopia. The new species differs from all other described Eucyon in having the distal cusps of the p4 united into a crest. It may be the youngest Eucyon known from Africa and is larger than described Eucyon from that continent. Other described African Eucyon are briefly reviewed, and we suggest that some material may be referable to foxes (Vulpini), while other material may belong to the small bear‐dog Bonisicyon illacabo (Amphicyonidae) or a closely related taxon.
A Mother's Value Lies in Her Sexuality:The Simpsons,Family Guy, andSouth Parkand the Preservation of Traditional Sex Roles
Authors: Feltmate David , Brackett Kimberly P.
Published: October 2014

This article examines the relationship between being a sexual woman and a good mother inThe Simpsons,Family Guy, andSouth Park. Considering the sexual criticisms of women in the “Mommy Wars” which continue to be fought across the United States, we find that these three programs reproduce conservative assumptions about women's sexuality and motherhood. Through critical constructionist theories of humor and motherhood, mothers from each program are analyzed and the relationship between their sexuality and motherliness is examined in detail. We conclude with a discussion of the social constrictions of reality that humorous popular culture both exposes and reproduces.
Technological Capabilities of Vacuum Arc Plasma Sources
Authors: Bystrov Yu. A. , Vetrov N. Z. , Lisenkov A. A. , Kostrin D. K.
Published: October 2014

Vacuum arc plasma sources based on the self‐maintained discharge developing in the cathode material vapor enable plasmochemical synthesis of nitride and carbide compounds. Reactive gas is injected in the metal plasma flux to implement the plasmochemical synthesis of compounds. By controlling the plasma flux parameters and taking into account the ion current density distribution in the active volume, properties of the formed coating may be managed. The development of plasma technology leads to possibility of fine controlling of gas pressure and reactive gas composition, degree of plasma flux focusing, flux separation from the drop fraction. If the plasma flux is free of droplets the composition and structure of a coating can be effectively controlled by varying technological parameters.
Wind energy literature survey no. 34
Authors: Pavese Christian
Published: October 2014

As a service to readers, Wind Energy regularly conducts literature surveys and publishes lists of relevant articles drawn from recent issues of Wind Energy itself and a large number of periodicals including Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics, International Journal of Energy Research, Renewable Energy, Energy Sources, Journal of Solar Energy Engineering, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Journal, Electric Power Components and Systems along with a number of periodicals published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, etc. The list is limited exclusively to journals not specifically devoted to wind energy and its applications. To assist the reader, the list is separated into broad categories. Although many papers fit several categories, each paper is listed only once under the category thought most appropriate. Please note that the inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality. Compiled by Christian Pavese, Department of Wind Energy, Technical University of Denmark, PO 49, DK‐4000 Roskilde, Denmark. Please email any suggestions to cpav@dtu.dk. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Structures, and Properties of Transition Metal Thiocyanato Coordination Compounds with 4‐(4‐Chlorobenzyl)pyridine as Ligand
Authors: Werner Julia , Neumann Tristan , Näther Christian
Published: October 2014

Reactions of transition metal thiocyanates with 4‐(4‐chlorobenzyl)pyridine (Clbp) lead to the formation of compounds of composition M(NCS)2(4‐(4‐chlorobenzyl)pyridine)4 (Mn‐1, Fe‐1/I, Fe‐1/II, Ni‐1, and Cd‐1) and M(NCS)2(4‐(4‐chlorobenzyl)pyridine)2 (Mn‐2, Ni‐2, and Cd‐2). In the crystal structures of compounds M‐1 the metal cations are octahedrally coordinated by two terminal N‐bonded thiocyanato anions and four Clbp ligands, whereas in compounds M‐2 the metal cations are linked by μ‐1, 3‐bridging anionic ligands. IR spectroscopic investigations show that the value of the asymmetric C–N stretching vibration depends on the coordination mode of the thiocyanato ligand and the nature of the metal cations. The thermal properties were investigated by simultaneous differential thermoanalysis and thermogravimetry as well as temperature dependent X‐ray powder diffraction. On heating compound Ni‐1 looses half of the Clbp ligands and transforms into Ni‐2. Clbp deficient intermediates were also detected on thermal decomposition of Mn‐1 and Fe‐1/I but the samples are of low crystallinity and therefore, their structures cannot be determined. Magnetic investigations reveal that Ni‐2 shows only Curie‐Weiss paramagnetism without any magnetic anomaly.
Relic density computations at NLO: infrared finiteness and thermal correction
Authors: Beneke Martin , Dighera Francesco , Hryczuk Andrzej
Published: October 2014

Abstract

There is an increasing interest in accurate dark matter relic density predictions, which requires next-to-leading order (NLO) calculations. The method applied up to now uses zero-temperature NLO calculations of annihilation cross sections in the standard Boltzmann equation for freeze-out, and is conceptually problematic, since it ignores the finite-temperature infrared (IR) divergences from soft and collinear radiation and virtual effects. We address this problem systematically by starting from non-equilibrium quantum field theory, and demonstrate on a realistic model that soft and collinear temperature-dependent divergences cancel in the collision term. Our analysis provides justification for the use of the freeze-out equation in its conventional form and determines the leading finite-temperature correction to the annihilation cross section. This turns out to have a remarkably simple structure.
Risk Factors for Malignancy in Branched‐Type Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms of the Pancreas During the Follow‐Up Period
Authors: Kato Yuichiro , Takahashi Shinichiro , Gotohda Naoto , Konishi Masaru
Published: October 2014

Background

The international consensus guidelines for the management of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas were revised in 2012 Tanaka (Pancreatology 12(3):183–197, 2012), making the indications for operation less aggressive. Therefore, the number of branch duct‐type IPMN (BD‐IPMN) patients requiring follow‐up care is expected to increase in the future.

Methods

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for malignancy in BD‐IPMN patients during the follow‐up period. This study included 47 BD‐IPMN patients without a mural nodule (MN) at the time of initial diagnosis and who subsequently underwent resection after a follow‐up period of more than 3 months. Data for the patients were reviewed retrospectively, and the clinicopathological factors were investigated.

Results

In a univariate analysis, age (≧65 years), an increase in the main pancreatic duct (MPD) diameter, the MPD diameter at resection (≧5 mm), and the occurrence of MN were significantly associated with malignancy. The occurrence of MN was the only significant factor in a multivariate analysis. In addition, 7 of the 17 patients (41.2 %) who only exhibited an increase in the cyst diameter during the follow‐up period were diagnosed as having malignancies. All 6 patients who exhibited an increase in the cyst diameter of 100 % or more were diagnosed as having carcinoma.

Conclusions

During the follow‐up period, the incidence of malignancy was higher among patients with BD‐IPMNs and the occurrence of MN, an increase in the MPD diameter, or an increase ratio of 100 % or more in cyst diameter than the others; resection was recommended for these patients.
Genome-wide screening of Saccharomyces cerevisiae genes required to foster tolerance towards industrial wheat straw hydrolysates
Authors: Pereira Francisco B , Teixeira Miguel C , Mira Nuno P , Sá-Correia Isabel , Domingues Lucília
Published: October 2014

The presence of toxic compounds derived from biomass pre-treatment in fermentation media represents an important drawback in second-generation bio-ethanol production technology and overcoming this inhibitory effect is one of the fundamental challenges to its industrial production. The aim of this study was to systematically identify, in industrial medium and at a genomic scale, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genes required for simultaneous and maximal tolerance to key inhibitors of lignocellulosic fermentations. Based on the screening of EUROSCARF haploid mutant collection, 242 and 216 determinants of tolerance to inhibitory compounds present in industrial wheat straw hydrolysate (WSH) and in inhibitor-supplemented synthetic hydrolysate were identified, respectively. Genes associated to vitamin metabolism, mitochondrial and peroxisomal functions, ribosome biogenesis and microtubule biogenesis and dynamics are among the newly found determinants of WSH resistance. Moreover, PRS3, VMA8, ERG2, RAV1 and RPB4 were confirmed as key genes on yeast tolerance and fermentation of industrial WSH.
Phase 1 trial of tivantinib in combination with sorafenib in adult patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Puzanov Igor , Sosman Jeffrey , Santoro Armando , Saif Muhammad W. , Goff Laura , Dy Grace K. , Zucali Paolo , Means-Powell Julie A. , Ma Wen Wee , Simonelli Matteo , Martell Robert , Chai Feng , Lamar Maria , Savage Ronald E. , Schwartz Brian , Adjei Alex A.
Published: October 2014

Purpose This phase I study evaluated the safety, tolerability, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of tivantinib combined with sorafenib in patients with advanced solid tumors. Materials and Methods A standard 3 + 3 dose escalation design was used. At the RP2D, expansion cohorts in 5 tumor types could be enrolled. Pharmacogenetic and pharmacodynamic analysis were performed. Results Eighty-seven patients received the study treatment. The combination had no unexpected toxicities. The most common treatment-related adverse events (AE) were rash (40 %), diarrhea (38 %), and anorexia (33 %). The RP2D was tivantinib 360 mg BID and sorafenib 400 mg BID for all cancer histologies, except in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients tivantinib was 240 mg BID plus sorafenib 400 mg BID. The overall response rate was 12 % in all patients, 26 % in melanoma, 15 % in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), 10 % in HCC, and 0 % in other patients. Disease control rate (CR, PR and SD ≥8 weeks) was 58 % in all patients, 90 % in RCC, 65 % in HCC, 63 % in melanoma, 40 % in breast cancer, and 8 % in NSCLC patients. Conclusions The combination treatment could be administered at full standard single-agent doses in all patients except those with HCC, where tivantinib was lowered to 240 mg BID. Preliminary evidence of anticancer activity was observed in patients with RCC, HCC, and melanoma, including patients refractory to sorafenib and/or other anti-VEGF pathway therapies. The combination treatment has therapeutic potential in treating a variety of solid tumors.
Rare but authentic Philadelphia-positive acute myeloblastic leukemia
Authors: Reboursiere Emilie , Chantepie Sylvain , Gac Anne-Claire , Reman Oumedaly
Published: October 2014

The Philadelphia chromosome (Ph+), corresponding to translocation t(9;22), is found in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Several cases of Ph+ acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been reported in the literature. A retrospective study of Ph+ AML between 2001 and 2012 was conducted through a review of the literature. Among 400 AML patients, two cases of Ph+ AML (0.5%) were identified and treated with conventional chemotherapy with or without tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). One patient had a complex karyotype including 7 monosomy (–7) and p190 BCR-ABL fusion transcript. Both patients remain in complete molecular remission. To date, 21 Ph+ AML cases treated with TKIs have been described in the literature with a median overall survival of 18 months. One-third of the patients had additional karyotypic abnormalities, and 14% had –7. Molecular analysis showed 59% p210 and 41% p190 fusion protein. Relapse rate was observed in 38% of patients with p190 compared to 10% in patients with p210. Allo-HSCT was performed in eight patients; two relapsed (25%). Cytogenetic (–7) and molecular features help to distinguish Ph+ AML from CML. Survival improved with TKIs, particularly in association with conventional chemotherapy and allo-HSCT. Further studies of Ph+ AML patients are needed to better define this entity, its prognostic value, and therapeutic strategy.
Secondary pulmonary alveolar proteinosis in hematologic malignancies
Authors: Chaulagain Chakra P , Pilichowska Monika , Brinckerhoff Laurence , Tabba Maher , Erban John K
Published: October 2014

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP), characterized by deposition of intra-alveolar PAS positive protein and lipid rich material, is a rare cause of progressive respiratory failure first described by Rosen et al. in 1958. The intra-alveolar lipoproteinaceous material was subsequently proven to have been derived from pulmonary surfactant in 1980 by Singh et al. Levinson et al. also reported in 1958 the case of 19-year-old female with panmyelosis afflicted with a diffuse pulmonary disease characterized by filling of the alveoli with amorphous material described as “intra-alveolar coagulum”. This is probably the first reported case of PAP in relation to hematologic malignancy. Much progress has been made on PAP first described by Rosen which is currently classified as idiopathic or primary or autoimmune PAP. Idiopathic PAP occurs as a result of auto-antibodies directed against granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) impeding the surfactant clearing function of alveolar macrophages leading to progressive respiratory failure. Whole lung lavage and GM-CSF therapy has improved outcomes in patients with idiopathic PAP. Despite major advancement in the management of hematologic malignancy and its complications, little is known about the type of PAP first described by Levinson and now known as secondary PAP; a term also used when PAP occurs due to other causes such as occupational dusts. In this article we review and analyze the limited literature available in secondary PAP due to hematologic malignancies and present a case of PAP associated with chronic lymphocytic leukemia successfully treated with bendamustine and rituximab.
Inferior vena cava filters in patients with advanced-stage cancer
Authors: Mansour Asem , Ismael Yousef , Abdel-Razeq Hikmat
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND:

Cancer and its treatment are recognized risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are utilized to provide mechanical thromboprophylaxis to prevent pulmonary embolism (PE) or to avoid bleeding from systemic anticoagulation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective analysis of 107 cancer patients who had IVC filters inserted and followed up at our institution was performed. All patients had active cancer; a majority (> 90%) had advanced-stage disease, whereas only five patients (5.8%) had stages I or II disease.

RESULTS:

Eighty six patients (80.3%) had their IVC filter placed through a jugular approach. Filter insertion was not without complications; recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was reported in 10 (9.3%), PE in three (2.8%) and filter thrombosis in one patient. The value of IVC filter in patients with advanced stage disease was very limited: among 59 patients with stage IV disease for whom survival data was available, the median survival was only 1.31 months (0.92-2.20) with 23 patients (39.0%) surviving less than a month, and 40 (67.8%) surviving less than three months.

CONCLUSIONS:

Systemic anticoagulation can be safely offered for the majority of cancer patients. When the risk of bleeding or PE is high, IVC filters can be utilized. However, the placement of such filters should take into consideration the stage of disease and life expectancy of such patients. Patients with advanced-stage disease may gain little benefit from IVC filter insertion.
ON SARMANOV MIXED ERLANG RISKS IN INSURANCE APPLICATIONS
Authors: Hashorva Enkelejd , Ratovomirija Gildas
Published: October 2014

In this paper we consider an extension to the aggregation of the FGM mixed Erlang risks, proposed by Cossette et al. (2013 Insurance: Mathematics and Economics, 52, 560–572), in which we introduce the Sarmanov distribution to model the dependence structure. For our framework, we demonstrate that the aggregated risk belongs to the class of Erlang mixtures. Following results from S. C. K. Lee and X. S. Lin (2010 North American Actuarial Journal, 14(1) 107–130), G. E. Willmot and X. S. Lin (2011 Applied Stochastic Models in Business and Industry, 27(1) 8–22), analytical expressions of the contribution of each individual risk to the economic capital for the entire portfolio are derived under both the TVaR and the covariance capital allocation principle. By analysing the commonly used dependence measures, we also show that the dependence structure is wide and flexible. Numerical examples and simulation studies illustrate the tractability of our approach.
Memoirs of the Life of the Right Honourable Richard Brinsley Sheridan
Authors: Moore Thomas
Published: October 2014

Best known for The Rivals and The School for Scandal, Richard Brinsley Sheridan (1751–1816) was already a celebrated comic playwright when he entered Parliament in 1780. Turning his wit and talent as a writer to political oratory, he won acclaim for his speeches in the House of Commons. As an independent-minded Whig, he had to reconcile his distrust of monarchical power with his role as friend and confidant to the future George IV. Sheridan's was ultimately a turbulent life, rocked by affairs, heavy drinking and constant debt. This successful and influential two-volume biography, first published in 1825, was written by the poet Thomas Moore (1779–1852), who went on to chart the life of Lord Byron. Volume 2 covers Sheridan's political career, his speeches in Parliament and his final years, closing with reflections on his life.
Dynamics of pulsatile flow through model abdominal aortic aneurysms
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Shyam Sunder , Pier Benoît , Biesheuvel Arie
Published: October 2014

To contribute to the understanding of flow phenomena in abdominal aortic aneurysms, numerical computations of pulsatile flows through aneurysm models and a stability analysis of these flows were carried out. The volume flow rate waveforms into the aneurysms were based on measurements of these waveforms, under rest and exercise conditions, of patients suffering abdominal aortic aneurysms. The Reynolds number and Womersley number, the dimensionless quantities that characterize the flow, were varied within the physiologically relevant range, and the two geometric quantities that characterize the model aneurysm were varied to assess the influence of the length and maximal diameter of an aneurysm on the details of the flow. The computed flow phenomena and the induced wall shear stress distributions agree well with what was found in PIV measurements by Salsac et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 560, 2006, pp. 19–51). The results suggest that long aneurysms are less pathological than short ones, and that patients with an abdominal aortic aneurysm are better to avoid physical exercise. The pulsatile flows were found to be unstable to three-dimensional disturbances if the aneurysm was sufficiently localized or had a sufficiently large maximal diameter, even for flow conditions during rest. The abdominal aortic aneurysm can be viewed as acting like a ‘wavemaker’ that induces disturbed flow conditions in healthy segments of the arterial system far downstream of the aneurysm; this may be related to the fact that one-fifth of the larger abdominal aortic aneurysms are found to extend into the common iliac arteries. Finally, we report a remarkable sensitivity of the wall shear stress distribution and the growth rate of three-dimensional disturbances to small details of the aneurysm geometry near the proximal end. These findings suggest that a sensitivity analysis is appropriate when a patient-specific computational study is carried out to obtain a quantitative description of the wall shear stress distribution.
To what extent psychiatric patients feel involved in decision making about their mental health care? Relationships with socio-demographic, clinical, and psychological variables
Authors: De las Cuevas Carlos , Peñate Wenceslao
Published: October 2014

Background

Shared decision making (SDM) is an essential component of patient-centered care, but there is little information about its use in the psychiatric care.

Objective

To measure to what extent psychiatric patients feel they were involved in the process and steps of decision making about treatment choice and to analyse the influence of socio-demographic, clinical, and psychological processes on this perception.

Methods

Cross-sectional survey involving 1100 consecutive psychiatric outpatients invited to complete the nine-item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9), health locus of control and control preferences, self-efficacy and drug attitude scales, as well as a questionnaire including socio-demographic and clinical variables.

Results

A high response rate of 77% was registered, resulting in a sample of 846 psychiatric outpatients. SDM-Q-9 total score indicate a moderately low degree of perceived participation, with differing perceived implementation of the individual the SDM process steps. Patient diagnosis evidenced significant differences in SDM perception. Patients’ perception of SDM was explained by four main variables: the older the patient, the lower self-reported SDM; having a diagnosis of schizophrenia increases the likelihood of lower SDM; a positive attitude towards psychiatric drugs favors greater SDM, as well as a higher level of self-efficacy.

Conclusion

The result of this study suggests that SDM is currently not widely practiced in psychiatric care. Further research is needed to examine if the low level of participation self-reported is justified by psychiatric patients’ decisional capacity.
Who or What to Blame
Authors: Eriksen Thomas Hylland
Published: October 2014

The terrorist attack in Norway on 22 July 2011, carried out by a right-wing extremist, was a shocking event, leaving 77 dead and dozens seriously wounded. It soon gave rise to a range of interpretations and explanations as to the causes and implications of the attack. Engaging with classical anthropological and more recent sociological literature on trust and blame, the article shows that there was no hegemonic narrative or explanation of the attack, and similarly no broad agreement over the steps to be taken in order to reduce the chances of future attacks. Six different attempts to account for the terrorist attack are described, but only two correctly identify demographic change, migration and the rise of xenophobic politics as the underlying causes of the terrorist attack. This suggests that the high level of trust characteristic of Norwegian society is likely to be reduced as a result of accelerating change and accompanying social fragmentation.
Salt appetite in the elderly
Authors: Hendi Khadeja , Leshem Micah
Published: October 2014

The present study investigated whether salt appetite in the elderly is impaired similar to thirst because of the commonality of their physiological substrates and whether alterations in salt appetite are related to mood. Elderly (65–85 years, n 30) and middle-aged (45–58 years, n 30) men and women were compared in two test sessions. Thirst, psychophysical ratings of taste solutions, dietary Na and energy intakes, seasoning with salt and sugar, number of salty and sweet snacks consumed, preferred amounts of salt in soup and sugar in tea, and an overall measure of salt appetite and its relationship with mood, nocturia and sleep were measured. Elderly participants were found to be less thirsty and respond less to thirst. In contrast, no impairment of salt appetite was found in them, and although they had a reduced dietary Na intake, it dissipated when corrected for their reduced dietary energy intake. Diet composition and Na intake were found to be similar in middle-aged and elderly participants, despite the lesser intake in elderly participants. There were no age-related differences in the intensity of taste or hedonic profile of Na, in salting habits, in tests of salting soup, or number of salty snacks consumed. No relationship of any measure of salt appetite with mood measured by the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, frequency of nocturia, or sleep duration was observed. The age-related impairment of the physiology of mineralofluid regulation, while compromising thirst and fluid intake, spares salt appetite, suggesting that salt appetite in humans is not regulated physiologically. Intact salt appetite in the elderly might be utilised judiciously to prevent hyponatraemia, increase thirst and improve appetite.
Upper Katian (Ordovician) bentonites in the East Baltic, Scandinavia and Scotland: geochemical correlation and volcanic source interpretation
Authors: KIIPLI TARMO , DAHLQVIST PETER , KALLASTE TOIVO , KIIPLI ENLI , NÕLVAK JAAK
Published: October 2014

Altered volcanic ash interbeds (bentonites) in the upper Katian of Baltoscandia indicate significant volcanic activity in neighbouring tectonically active areas. Katian bentonites in the East Baltic can be reliably correlated using sanidine phenocryst composition. Ratios of immobile trace elements TiO2, Nb, Zr and Th to Al2O3enable extension of the correlations to Scandinavia, where late diagenetic alterations could have caused recrystallization of sanidine phenocrysts. At least seven volcanic eruptions were recognized in Baltoscandian sections. Several bentonites found in deep-sea sediments are absent in shallow-sea sediments, indicating extensive breaks in sedimentation and erosion during late Katian and Hirnantian times. The areal distribution pattern of Katian bentonites in Baltoscandia indicates a volcanic source from the north or northwest (present-day orientation) from the margins of the Iapetus Palaeo-Ocean. Signatures of ultra-high-pressure metamorphism in the Seve Nappe (Central Sweden) and intrusions in the Helgeland Nappe Complex in Central Norway have been proposed as potential sources of the magmas that generated the volcanic ashes deposited in the East Baltic in Katian times. Geochemical similarities between Baltoscandian and Dob's Linn bentonites from southern Scotland suggest a common volcanic source in Katian times.
Genetic variation and association among factors influencing storage root bulking in cassava
Authors: TUMUHIMBISE R. , SHANAHAN P. , MELIS R. , KAWUKI R.
Published: October 2014

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is an important storage root crop with largely unexplored and unexplained potentially valuable genetic variability. Genetic variability is important in selecting suitable genotypes for crop improvement. The present study was aimed at assessing the extent of variability in cassava storage root bulking, based on fresh storage root yield accumulated over time. Twelve cassava genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design at three contrasting locations in Uganda. Assessments were done from 5 to 13 months after planting at intervals of 2 months. Genotype, harvest time, location and their interactions were significantly different for fresh storage root yield and most of the other traits assessed. Estimates of variance components revealed that a large portion of the phenotypic variance was accounted for by the genotypic component for all traits assessed indicative of substantial genetic variability among the genotypes evaluated. This genetic variability is important in a hybridization and/or selection programme because it implies that significant genetic gain through phenotypic selection is possible for the traits assessed. Fresh storage root yield was positively and significantly correlated with storage root girth, harvest index, shoot mass and storage root number. The information generated will inform future breeding initiatives to develop early-bulking cassava genotypes with farmer-preferred traits in Uganda.
Evaluation of milk compositional variables on coagulation properties using partial least squares
Authors: Bland Julie H , Grandison Alistair S , Fagan Colette C
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of numerous milk compositional factors on milk coagulation properties using Partial Least Squares (PLS). Milk from herds of Jersey and Holstein-Friesian cattle was collected across the year and blended (n=55), to maximise variation in composition and coagulation. The milk was analysed for casein, protein, fat, titratable acidity, lactose, Ca2+, urea content, micelles size, fat globule size, somatic cell count and pH. Milk coagulation properties were defined as coagulation time, curd firmness and curd firmness rate measured by a controlled strain rheometer. The models derived from PLS had higher predictive power than previous models demonstrating the value of measuring more milk components. In addition to the well-established relationships with casein and protein levels, CMS and fat globule size were found to have as strong impact on all of the three models. The study also found a positive impact of fat on milk coagulation properties and a strong relationship between lactose and curd firmness, and urea and curd firmness rate, all of which warrant further investigation due to current lack of knowledge of the underlying mechanism. These findings demonstrate the importance of using a wider range of milk compositional variables for the prediction of the milk coagulation properties, and hence as indicators of milk suitability for cheese making.
Montasio cheese liking as affected by information about cows breed and rearing system
Authors: Romanzin Alberto , Corazzin Mirco , Favotto Saida , Piasentier Edi , Bovolenta Stefano
Published: October 2014

European consumers are more and more aware of the credence attributes of foods, particularly of those of animal origin. The aim of the paper was to assess whether the information about production system may modify the consumer liking of cheese. Montasio PDO cheese (MC), usually made by milk from indoor reared cows of different breeds, was processed from pure milk of Italian Simmental (IS) cows (ISMC) or of IS cows grazing on mountain pasture (ALP-ISMC). A consumer test was carried out in two sessions on 60-d ripened cheeses. In the first, both cheeses were tasted by Montasio consumers in blind condition (Perceived liking, PL). Then the respondents were asked to read information about the breed and the rearing system and to give their Expected liking (EL). Two weeks after, in the second session, the same consumers tasted the two cheeses with the linked information (Actual liking, AL). Despite the similar PL average score (ISMC: 21±2·3 vs. ALP-ISMC: 23±2·2 points on Labelled Affective Magnitude scale, P>0·05), it was possible to identifying consumers’ clusters with differential liking for the two types of Montasio PDO, that were characterised by different physico-chemical properties. Consumers express a high EL for ISMC (38±2·6 points) and even more for ALP-ISMC (61±2·5 points). The AL of ISMC (35±2·1 points) was similar and statistically not different from the EL (complete assimilation of information about breed). For ALP-ISMC the assimilation was complete for consumers (29%) who have expressed a positive PL for it, at least twice as much than ISMC. For the rest of consumers, both information and intrinsic properties play a significant role in the AL of the pasture-derived cheese.
Susceptibility of preparasitic stages of Chordodes nobilii (Gordiida, Nematomorpha) to the fungicide carbendazim
Authors: Achiorno C.L. , De Villalobos C. , Ferrari L.
Published: October 2014

We evaluated the effect of carbendazim on non-target organisms using the parasite Chordodes nobilii as a test organism. The Gordiida act as a link between freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems; and C. nobilii, a neotropical representative species of this group, has been shown to be sensitive to other contaminants even at environmentally acceptable concentrations. The taxa susceptible to carbendazim, however, may not be adequately represented among the standard aquatic test species used in ecotoxicological risk assessment. Moreover, the autochthonous organisms in this area that could be used as bioindicators still need to be found. The aim of the present work was therefore to assess the susceptibility of the preparasitic stages of C. nobilii to noxious effects by carbendazim. The assay protocol consisted in 96- and 48-h acute exposures of early embryonic stages and larvae, respectively, to concentrations ranging from 10 to 360 μg/l. Embryonic development was not inhibited by carbendazim at any of the evaluated concentrations, but the infectivity of larvae emerging from the exposed eggs was significantly diminished. Larval survival rate was also affected at the lowest concentration assayed. Values of the mean inhibition concentration (IC50) were 7 and 11 μg/l for embryos and larvae, respectively. Compared to other freshwater organisms, C. nobilii can be considered a species moderately to highly susceptible to carbendazim. As the expected environmental concentrations of carbendazim range from 6.25 to 41.3 μg/l, C. nobilii could well be a species in danger when exposed to this fungicide.