bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competition Between Local Dealerships and Internet Markets: The Role of Local Relationships, Risk Tolerance, and Trust in Used Farm Machinery Markets
Authors: Roe Brian E. , Batte Marvin T. , Diekmann Florian
Published: October 2013

We analyze recent and intended transactions of used farm equipment and find the quality of buyers' relationships with local equipment dealers influences whether their most recent purchase came from an Internet source and whether they will consider future purchases from Internet sources. We find local dealers who provide excellent parts and repair service face a double‐edged sword: customers are less likely to have purchased from Internet sources during their last transaction but express stronger absolute interest in future Internet purchases. Also, customers who view their dealer as having treated them fairly during past price negotiations are less likely to express interest in transacting on the Internet in the future. Finally, buyers sort across channels based on several personal characteristics, including risk tolerance, trust attitudes, and negotiation style, but seller sorting is primarily based on risk tolerance. Specifically, buyers and sellers with greater risk tolerance sort to online markets. [JEL Descriptors: L81, Q12].
Nasopharyngeal colonization by potentially pathogenic bacteria found in healthy semi‐captive wild‐born chimpanzees in Uganda
Authors: Mugisha Lawrence , Köndgen Sophie , Kaddu‐Mulindwa Deogratias , Gaffikin Lynne , Leendertz Fabian H.
Published: October 2013

Information on the chimpanzee nasopharygeal colonization in captive sanctuaries and in the wild is rare. This study was undertaken to establish the nasopharygeal colonization and potential bacterial pathogens in sanctuary chimpanzees as a basis for improving chimpanzee and employee health. Nasopharygeal colonization of 39 healthy chimpanzees were analyzed by microbiological cultivation method and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. We report four major phyla dominated by Proteobacteria (50%), Fermicutes (35.7%), Bacteriodes (7.1%), and Cynobacteria (7.1%) in healthy semi‐captive chimpanzees. Further classification based on 7‐base oligomers revealed the following genera: Streptococcus, Veillonella, Neisseria, Prevotella, Kingella and unclassified Cynobacteria, Actinobacillus, Bacteriodes and Pasteurellaceae. On microbiological cultivation we were able to identify and characterize some of the bacteria to species level as Klebsiella pneumonie and Pseudomonas aeruginosa being dominant bacteria with 54.7% and 50% colonization, respectively. Of these, Streptococcus, Neisseria, Klebsiella, and Haemophillus have representatives known to potentially cause severe respiratory disease. Our data present important information on chimpanzee nasopharygeal colonization as a guide to understanding disease processes and pharmaceutical therapies required for improving the health of chimpanzees. The results from this study will guide the processes to improve procedures for routine management of sanctuary chimpanzees and use it as a basis for evaluation of future reintroduction possibilities. Am. J. Primatol. 76:103–110, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oligomerisierung von Ethen zu α‐Olefinen: Erfindung und Entwicklung des Shell‐Higher‐Olefin‐Prozesses (SHOP)
Authors: Keim Wilhelm
Published: October 2013

Glück, Talent und harte Arbeit: Mit dem Shell‐Higher‐Olefin‐Prozess (SHOP) werden heute pro Jahr über eine Million Tonnen α‐Olefine hergestellt. Das Auffinden des Prozesses war das Ergebnis richtiger Modellvorstellungen und von glücklichem Zufall. W. Keim, als einer der Hauptbeteiligten in der Entwicklung des SHOP, gibt einen Zeitzeugenbericht über die Ereignisse.
Non‐Invasive and In Situ Characterization of the Degradation of Biomaterial Scaffolds by Volumetric Photoacoustic Microscopy
Authors: Zhang Yu Shrike , Cai Xin , Yao Junjie , Xing Wenxin , Wang Lihong V. , Xia Younan
Published: October 2013

Degradation is among the most important properties of biomaterial scaffolds, which are indispensable for regenerative medicine. The currently used method relies on the measurement of mass loss across different samples and cannot track the degradation of an individual scaffold in situ. Here we report, for the first time, the use of multiscale photoacoustic microscopy to non‐invasively monitor the degradation of an individual scaffold. We could observe alterations to the morphology and structure of a scaffold at high spatial resolution and deep penetration, and more significantly, quantify the degradation of an individual scaffold as a function of time, both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the remodeling of vasculature inside a scaffold can be visualized simultaneously using a dual‐wavelength scanning mode in a label‐free manner. This optoacoustic method can be used to monitor the degradation of individual scaffolds, offering a new approach to non‐invasively analyze and quantify biomaterial–tissue interactions in conjunction with the assessment of in vivo vascular parameters.
Highly Active, Low‐Valence Molybdenum‐ and Tungsten‐Amide Catalysts for Bifunctional Imine‐Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Chakraborty Subrata , Blacque Olivier , Fox Thomas , Berke Heinz
Published: October 2013

The reactions of [M(NO)(CO)4(ClAlCl3)] (M=Mo, W) with (iPr2PCH2CH2)2NH, (PNHP) at 90 °C afforded [M(NO)(CO)(PNHP)Cl] complexes (M=Mo, 1a; W, 1b). The treatment of compound 1a with KOtBu as a base at room temperature yielded the alkoxide complex [Mo(NO)(CO)(PNHP)(OtBu)] (2a). In contrast, with the amide base Na[N(SiMe3)2], the PNHP ligand moieties in compounds 1a and 1b could be deprotonated at room temperature, thereby inducing dehydrochlorination into amido complexes [M(NO)(CO)(PNP)] (M=Mo, 3a; W, 3b; PNP=(iPr2PCH2CH2)2N)). Compounds 3a and 3b have pseudo‐trigonal‐bipyramidal geometries, in which the amido nitrogen atom is in the equatorial plane. At room temperature, compounds 3a and 3b were capable of adding dihydrogen, with heterolytic splitting, thereby forming pairs of isomeric amine‐hydride complexes [Mo(NO)(CO)H(PNHP)] (4a(cis) and 4a(trans)) and [W(NO)(CO)H(PNHP)] (4b(cis) and 4b(trans); cis and trans correspond to the position of the H and NO groups). H2 approaches the Mo/WN bond in compounds 3a,3b from either the CO‐ligand side or from the NO‐ligand side. Compounds 4a(cis) and 4a(trans) were only found to be stable under a H2 atmosphere and could not be isolated. At 140 °C and 60 bar H2, compounds 3a and 3b catalyzed the hydrogenation of imines, thereby showing maximum turnover frequencies (TOFs) of 2912 and 1120 h−1, respectively, for the hydrogenation of N‐(4‐methoxybenzylidene)aniline. A Hammett plot for various para‐substituted imines revealed linear correlations with a negative slope of −3.69 for para substitution on the benzylidene side and a positive slope of 0.68 for para substitution on the aniline side. Kinetics analysis revealed the initial rate of the hydrogenation reactions to be first order in c(cat.) and zeroth order in c(imine). Deuterium kinetic isotope effect (DKIE) experiments furnished a low kH/kD value (1.28), which supported a Noyori‐type metal–ligand bifunctional mechanism with H2 addition as the rate‐limiting step.
Self‐Assembling Synthesis of Free‐standing Nanoporous Graphene–Transition‐Metal Oxide Flexible Electrodes for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries and Supercapacitors
Authors: Huang Xiaodan , Sun Bing , Chen Shuangqiang , Wang Guoxiu
Published: October 2013

The synthesis of nanoporous graphene by a convenient carbon nanofiber assisted self‐assembly approach is reported. Porous structures with large pore volumes, high surface areas, and well‐controlled pore sizes were achieved by employing spherical silica as hard templates with different diameters. Through a general wet‐immersion method, transition‐metal oxide (Fe3O4, Co3O4, NiO) nanocrystals can be easily loaded into nanoporous graphene papers to form three‐dimensional flexible nanoarchitectures. When directly applied as electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries and supercapacitors, the materials exhibited superior electrochemical performances, including an ultra‐high specific capacity, an extended long cycle life, and a high rate capability. In particular, nanoporous Fe3O4–graphene composites can deliver a reversible specific capacity of 1427.5 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 1000 mA g−1 as anode materials in lithium‐ion batteries. Furthermore, nanoporous Co3O4–graphene composites achieved a high supercapacitance of 424.2 F g−1. This work demonstrated that the as‐developed freestanding nanoporous graphene papers could have significant potential for energy storage and conversion applications.
Underground allies: How and why do mycelial networks help plants defend themselves?
Authors: Babikova Zdenka , Johnson David , Bruce Toby , Pickett John , Gilbert Lucy
Published: October 2013

Most land plants associate with mycorrhizal fungi that can connect roots of neighboring plants in common mycelial networks (CMNs). Recent evidence shows that CMNs transfer warning signals of pathogen and aphid attack between plants. However, we do not know how defence‐related signaling via CMNs operates or how ubiquitous it is. Nor do we know what the ecological relevance and fitness consequences are, particularly from the perspective of the mycorrhizal fungus. Here, we focus on the potential fitness benefits for mycorrhizal fungi and outline hypothetical scenarios in which signal transfer via CMNs is modulated in order to acquire the most benefit for the fungus (i.e. acquisition of carbon) for minimal cost. We speculate that the signal may be quantitative and may elicit plant defence responses on different levels depending on the distance the signal is transferred. Finally, we discuss the possibility of practical applications of this phenomenon for crop protection.
Death by transposition – the enemy within?
Authors: Sedivy John M. , Kreiling Jill A. , Neretti Nicola , Cecco Marco De , Criscione Steven W. , Hofmann Jeffrey W. , Zhao Xiaoai , Ito Takahiro , Peterson Abigail L.
Published: October 2013

Here we present and develop the hypothesis that the derepression of endogenous retrotransposable elements (RTEs) – “genomic parasites” – is an important and hitherto under‐unexplored molecular aging process that can potentially occur in most tissues. We further envision that the activation and continued presence of retrotransposition contribute to age‐associated tissue degeneration and pathology. Chromatin is a complex and dynamic structure that needs to be maintained in a functional state throughout our lifetime. Studies of diverse species have revealed that chromatin undergoes extensive rearrangements during aging. Cellular senescence, an important component of mammalian aging, has recently been associated with decreased heterochromatinization of normally silenced regions of the genome. These changes lead to the expression of RTEs, culminating in their transposition. RTEs are common in all kingdoms of life, and comprise close to 50% of mammalian genomes. They are tightly controlled, as their activity is highly destabilizing and mutagenic to their resident genomes.
Randomized clinical trial of the benefit of laparoscopy with closure of loop ileostomy
Authors: Royds J , O'Riordan J M , Mansour E , Eguare E , Neary P
Published: October 2013

Background

The aim was to compare reversal and laparoscopy with standard reversal of loop ileostomy in terms of hospital stay and morbidity in a randomized study.

Methods

Patients having reversal of a loop ileostomy were randomized to either standard reversal of ileostomy or reversal and laparoscopy. Strict discharge criteria were applied: toleration of two meals without nausea and vomiting, passing a bowel motion, and attaining adequate pain control with oral analgesia. Morbidity and cost were also compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 74 patients (reversal and laparoscopy 40, standard reversal 34) with a median age of 61 years underwent loop ileostomy reversal; there were 45 men (61 per cent). Ileostomy was most commonly carried out after laparoscopic low anterior resection (36 patients). Median length of stay, based on discharge criteria, was significantly shorter in the reversal and laparoscopy group than in the standard group: 4 (interquartile range 3–4) versus 5 (4–6) days (P = 0·003). The overall morbidity rate was also lower in patients who had ileostomy reversal and laparoscopy: 10 versus 32 per cent (P = 0·023). The median cost per patient was lower in the reversal and laparoscopy group: €3450 (interquartile range 2766–3450) versus €4527 (3843–7263) (P = 0·015). There was no statistically significant difference in American Society of Anesthesiologists fitness grade or time to reversal between the two groups.

Conclusion

Reversal of loop ileostomy with laparoscopy was associated with a shorter hospital stay, lower morbidity and reduced cost compared with the standard technique. Registration number: ISRCTN46101203 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).
Body mass index and outcomes following gastrointestinal cancer surgery in Japan
Authors: Yasunaga H , Horiguchi H , Matsuda S , Fushimi K , Hashimoto H , Ayanian J Z
Published: October 2013

Background

Recent studies in the USA have shown a lower postoperative mortality rate in mildly obese patients, described as the ‘obesity paradox’. The results from the relatively obese population in Western countries may not be generalizable to Asian countries, prompting the present study to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and outcomes after gastrointestinal surgery.

Methods

Patients who underwent gastrectomy or colorectal resection for stage I–III cancer between July and December 2010 were identified from a nationwide inpatient database in Japan. Multivariable logistic regression models for in-hospital mortality and postoperative complications, and a linear regression model for total costs were established, with adjustment for age, sex, co-morbidities, cancer stage and BMI. Restricted cubic spline functions were used to consider potential non-linear associations between BMI and the outcomes.

Results

Among 30 765 eligible patients, associations between BMI and the outcomes were U-shaped, with the lowest mortality, morbidity and total costs in patients with a BMI of around 23·0 kg/m2. A BMI of 18·5 kg/m2 was associated with significantly greater mortality (odds ratio (OR) 2·04, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·64 to 2·55), postoperative complications (OR 1·10, 1·03 to 1·18) and total costs (difference €1389, 1139 to 1640) compared with a BMI of 23·0 kg/m2. Patients with a BMI exceeding 30·0 kg/m2 had significantly higher rates of postoperative complications and total costs than those with a BMI of 23·0 kg/m2, but no significant association was evident between a BMI of more than 23·0 kg/m2 and in-hospital death.

Conclusion

Unlike previous studies in the USA, in the present national Japanese cohort of patients undergoing surgery for gastrointestinal cancer, those who were either underweight or overweight had more postoperative complications and greater perioperative costs than those of normal weight.
Economic impact of an enhanced recovery pathway for oesophagectomy
Authors: Lee L , Li C , Robert N , Latimer E , Carli F , Mulder D S , Fried G M , Ferri L E , Feldman L S
Published: October 2013

Background

Data are lacking to support the cost-effectiveness of enhanced recovery pathways (ERP) for oesophagectomy. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of an ERP on medical costs for oesophagectomy.

Methods

This study investigated all patients undergoing elective oesophagectomy between June 2009 and December 2011 at a single high-volume university hospital. From June 2010, all patients were enrolled in an ERP. Clinical outcomes were recorded for up to 30 days. Deviation-based cost modelling was used to compare costs between the traditional care and ERP groups.

Results

A total of 106 patients were included (47 traditional care, 59 ERP). There were no differences in patient, pathological and operative characteristics between the groups. Median length of hospital stay (LOS) was lower in the ERP group (8 (interquartile range 7–18) days versus 10 (9–18) days with traditional care; P = 0·019). There was no difference in 30-day complication rates (59 per cent with ERP versus 62 per cent with traditional care; P = 0·803), and the 30-day or in-hospital mortality rate was low (3·8 per cent, 4 of 106). Costs in the on-course and minor-deviation groups were significantly lower after implementation of the ERP. The pathway-dependent cost saving per patient was €1055 and the overall cost saving per patient was €2013. One-way sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the ERP was cost-neutral or more costly only at extreme values of ward, operating and intensive care costs.

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary ERP for oesophagectomy was associated with cost savings, with no increase in morbidity or mortality.
Contribution of surgical specialization to improved colorectal cancer survival
Authors:   West of Scotland Colorectal Cancer Managed Clinical Network, Oliphant R , Nicholson G A , Horgan P G , Molloy R G , McMillan D C , Morrison D S
Published: October 2013

Background

Reorganization of colorectal cancer services has led to surgery being increasingly, but not exclusively, delivered by specialist surgeons. Outcomes from colorectal cancer surgery have improved, but the exact determinants remain unclear. This study explored the determinants of outcome after colorectal cancer surgery over time.

Methods

Postoperative mortality (within 30 days of surgery) and 5-year relative survival rates for patients in the West of Scotland undergoing surgery for colorectal cancer between 1991 and 1994 were compared with rates for those having surgery between 2001 and 2004.

Results

The 1823 patients who had surgery in 2001–2004 were more likely to have had stage I or III tumours, and to have undergone surgery with curative intent than the 1715 patients operated on in 1991–1994. The proportion of patients presenting electively who received surgery by a specialist surgeon increased over time (from 14·9 to 72·8 per cent; P < 0·001). Postoperative mortality increased among patients treated by non-specialists over time (from 7·4 to 10·3 per cent; P = 0·026). Non-specialist surgery was associated with an increased risk of postoperative death (adjusted odds ratio 1·72, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 1·17 to 2·55; P = 0·006) compared with specialist surgery. The 5-year relative survival rate increased over time and was higher among those treated by specialist compared with non-specialist surgeons (62·1 versus 53·0 per cent; P < 0·001). Compared with the earlier period, the adjusted relative excess risk ratio for the later period was 0·69 (95 per cent c.i. 0·61 to 0·79; P < 0·001). Increased surgical specialization accounted for 18·9 per cent of the observed survival improvement.

Conclusion

Increased surgical specialization contributed significantly to the observed improvement in longer-term survival following colorectal cancer surgery.
Endovascular transluminal stent grafting
Authors: Rohit Manoj Kumar , Gupta Ankur , Khandelwal N.
Published: October 2013

Iliac vessels are prone to injury during lumbar spine surgery due to their proximity to the lumbar spine. Arterio‐venous fistula formation during lumbar spine surgery is an uncommon complication and can present as an asymptomatic incidental finding to rapidly deteriorating hemodynamics leading to cardiopulmonary collapse. We have reported three patients who had symptomatic iliac arterio‐venous fistula detected soon after lumbar spine surgery. All these patients were successfully treated by endovascular transluminal stent grafting. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cardioprotective effect of high‐dose intragraft adenosine infusion on microvascular function and prevention of no‐reflow during saphenous vein grafts intervention
Authors: Kapoor Nikhil , Yalamanchili Venkata , Siddiqui Tariq , Raza Syed , Leesar Massoud A.
Published: October 2013

Background

Despite the use of embolic protection devices, no‐reflow can still occur during saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) intervention. High‐dose intracoronary adenosine infusion preconditions the myocardium, improves coronary flow, and prevents no‐reflow. The role of high‐dose intragraft adenosine infusion on protection of microvascular function and prevention of no‐reflow has not been investigated

Objectives

We investigated the cardioprotective effect of high‐dose intragraft adenosine infusion, compared with placebo, on microvascular function and prevention of no‐reflow during SVGs intervention. Methods: We randomized 22 patients with SVGs stenoses to receive either a 10‐min intragraft adenosine infusion (200 μg/min; total dose = 2,000 μg) or normal saline prior to stenting. Average peak velocity (APV), coronary flow velocity reserve (CVR), thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count (TFC), TIMI myocardial perfusion grade (TMPG), and the rate of no‐reflow were compared between the two groups before adenosine or saline infusions and after stenting

Results

After stenting, hyperemic APV, CVR, and TMPG were significantly higher in the adenosine‐treated group than in the control group (60 ± 18 vs. 35 ± 10 cm/sec; 2.6 ± 0.54 vs. 1.8 ± 0.47; and 2.8 ± 0.90 vs. 2.1 ± 0.80, respectively; P < 0.05. TFC was significantly lower in the adenosine‐treated group than in the control group (14 ± 3.0 vs. 26 ± 13; P < 0.05). In the control group, four patients (36%) developed no‐reflow compared to none in the adenosine‐treated patient; P < 0.05

Conclusions

This study provides the first evidence that high‐dose intragraft adenosine infusion compared with placebo protects microvascular function and prevents no‐reflow during SVGs intervention. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of congenital non‐ductal shunt lesions with the amplatzer duct occluder II
Authors: Vijayalakshmi I.B. , Narasimhan Chitra , Singh Bhupinder , Manjunath C.N.
Published: October 2013

Amplatzer Duct Occluder II (ADO II) is especially designed for closing long ducts in infants. The experience with off‐label use of ADO II in non‐ductal positions is limited. Aim: To evaluate feasibility of use of ADO II in non‐ductal positions, incidence of complete heart block (CHB), advantages and disadvantages. Material and Results: Out of 79 defects closed with ADO II, 61 had perimembranous, 12 apical/mid‐muscular ventricular septal defects (VSD), 4 Gerbode defects, one each of coronary arterio‐venous fistula and aorto‐right ventricular tunnel. Age ranged from 8 months to 21 years (mean 8.9 ± 4.02 years, median 9 years). The mean fluoroscopy time was 5.2 ± 1.1 min with range 4.2–9.2 min. Complete closure was achieved in all. Three cases developed transient junctional bradycardia, treated with steroids. One patient who developed CHB (1.3%) needed temporary pacing. Discussion: ADO II is a low profile device. It can be easily delivered through a 5F guiding catheter and needs very short fluoroscopic time as arteriovenous loop is not needed. The cost is 1/3 of regular ventricular septal occluders. The CHB that is a major challenge for closure of VSDs is less common with soft, specially designed ADO II, which does not compress the conducting system. Conclusions: Use of the ADO II in non‐ductal positions can be achieved with high success and low complication rates, especially CHB; its use is also associated with significantly reduced procedure time and device cost. Device size availability restricts use of the ADO II to defects up to 6 mm in diameter. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous management of late leak after lariat transcatheter ligation of the left atrial appendage in patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk for stroke
Authors: Mosley William J. , Smith Michael R. , Price Matthew J.
Published: October 2013

Left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion or ligation is a novel approach to stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation that may obviate the need for long‐term anticoagulation. The Lariat device has received Food and Drug Administration 510K clearance for the approximation of soft tissue and has been applied to transcatheter LAA ligation using a combined trans‐pericardial and transseptal approach. The occurrence of late leak after transcatheter LAA ligation and its percutaneous management has not been previously reported. Herein, we report three cases of late leak with reconstitution of the LAA after initially successful Lariat closure, and present a simple percutaneous technique for leak closure. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A novel abdominal transaortic approach
Authors: Leucker Thorsten M. , Williams Matthew L. , Flaherty Michael P.
Published: October 2013

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) via the transfemoral (TF), transapical (TA), or even the transaortic (TAO) approach in high‐risk or inoperable patients is quickly becoming a safe and effective modality for the treatment of symptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS). However, in this selected group of patients, those with anatomical or physiologic constraints preventing TF, TA, and conventional TAO TAVR, alternative sites of access must be explored. Here, we report a successful TAVR in an inoperable patient with severe AS using a distal abdominal TAO approach via a synthetic graft‐conduit. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First in vivo evaluation of a flexible self‐apposing left atrial appendage closure device in the canine model
Authors: Cheng Yanping , Conditt Gerard , Yi Genghua , Tellez Armando , Corcoran Michael , Rousselle Serge , Kaluza Greg L. , Granada Juan F.
Published: October 2013

Objectives

Aimed to evaluate the feasibility of deployment and healing response of a novel transcatheter left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion device in the canine model

Background

LAA occlusion is proposed to reduce the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation patients

Methods

Transseptal puncture and device deployment was guided under fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in five dogs. First, a distal cylindrical bulb occluder was released and secured to the appendage wall with hooks. Subsequently, a proximal sail was unfolded, covering the LAA ostium. Rotational angiography, TEE, and histology outcomes were assessed 30 days following implantation

Results

Pre‐operative TEE revealed the mean diameter of the LAA ostium to be 17.2 ± 1.6 mm with a depth of 18.5 ± 1.7 mm. The landing zone for the distal bulb was measured to be 12.8 ± 1.3 mm. The mean bulb diameter at implant was 16.8 ± 1.8 mm. Post‐operative TEE showed adequate positioning and successful LAA occlusion with all implanted devices. Pericardial effusion requiring pericardiocentesis was seen in one animal following device implantation. At 30 days, TEE revealed full occlusion of all LAA ostia with the exception of a minimal peri‐device leak (<3 mm) observed in one animal. No pericardial effusion or device‐related thrombus formation was found at termination. Histological analysis confirmed circumferential occlusion of all appendages and complete neointimal coverage on the luminal aspect of the occluder

Conclusion

The percutaneous delivery of a novel self‐positioning LAA occlusion device is feasible and safe in a canine model. At 30 days, all devices displayed complete healing and occlusion of the LAA without any device related adverse events. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantification of Brønsted Acid Sites of Grafted Amorphous Silica–Alumina Compounds and their Turnover Frequency in m‐Xylene Isomerization
Authors: Caillot Maxime , Chaumonnot Alexandra , Digne Mathieu , Bokhoven Jeroen A. Van
Published: October 2013

The number and types of acid sites and the catalytic activity of amorphous silica–alumina, obtained by grafting silicon species to the surface of γ‐alumina, varies with the synthesis conditions and the amount of grafted silicon. IR spectroscopy of the OH region proves that deposition occurs selectively, first on the (1 0 0) and then on the (1 1 0) facets. Grafting onto the (1 0 0) surface lowers the number of active sites in ethanol dehydration. Grafting onto the (1 1 0) surface yields Brønsted acid sites that are active in the dehydration of ethanol and that catalyze the isomerization of m‐xylene. Strong Lewis acid sites, or “defect sites”, as detected by CO adsorption, also appear, although they are absent on the parent alumina. The stoichiometric dehydration of ethanol on Brønsted sites, monitored by using thermogravimetric analysis, enables the calculation of the turnover frequency of these sites in m‐xylene isomerization (1.4×10−3 s−1 site−1 at 350 °C, atmospheric pressure, 0.6 cm3 h−1 of m‐xylene, and 0.5 g of catalyst). This number is 22 times lower than on a USY zeolite without extraframework aluminum.
Culture of Microalgae from Sewage Effluent
Authors: Inoue K. , Uchida T.
Published: October 2013

Microalgae were cultured using actual sewage effluent and the influences of various controls such as the hydraulic retention time to the culture were examined. The microalgae could be cultured by supplying only sewage effluent without additional external microalgal stock or nutrient salts. As the microalgae increased, the nutrient salts and metals were removed from the culture water. The cell number of green algae increased to 3.3 times by increasing the hydraulic retention time from 4 d to 6 d. With the addition of air into the culture water, the green algae accounted for 87 % of the total population. These controls led to an increase in the useful green algae components as the fuel.
Chiral‐Zn(NTf2)2‐Complex‐Catalyzed Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Direct Conjugate Addition of Arylacetonitriles to Alkylidene Malonates
Authors: Yao Jingjing , Liu Xiaohua , He Peng , Zhu Yin , Lian Xiangjin , Lin Lili , Feng Xiaoming
Published: October 2013

Chiral N,N′‐dioxide/Zn(NTf2)2 complexes were demonstrated to be highly effective in the direct asymmetric conjugate addition of arylacetonitriles to alkylidene malonates under mild conditions. A wide range of substrates were tolerated to afford their corresponding products in moderate‐to‐good yields with high diastereoselectivities (82:18–>99:1 d.r.) and enantioselectivities (81–99 % ee). The reactions performed well, owing to the high Lewis acidity of the metal triflimidate and a ligand‐acceleration effect. The N,N′‐dioxide also benefited the deprotonation process as a Brønsted base. The catalytic reaction could be performed on the gram‐scale with retention of yield, diastereoselectivity, and enantioselectivity. The products that contained functional groups were ready for further manipulation. In addition, a possible catalytic model was proposed to explain the origin of the asymmetric induction.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Metabolism Studies of Fluspidine Enantiomers
Authors: Holl Katharina , Falck Evamaria , Köhler Jens , Schepmann Dirk , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich , Brust Peter , Wünsch Bernhard
Published: October 2013

The enantiomers of the potent σ1 ligand fluspidine (1) were prepared by using chiral preparative HPLC. Synthesis of racemic tosylate 2 and subsequent separation of enantiomers yielded (R)‐2 and (S)‐2 in excellent enantiomeric purities. The fluspidine enantiomers (R)‐1 and (S)‐1 were synthesized from (R)‐2 and (S)‐2 by nucleophilic substitution with tetra‐n‐butylammonium fluoride, affording (R)‐1 with 99.6 % ee and (S)‐1 with 96.4 % ee. Tosylates (R)‐2 and (S)‐2 can also serve as precursors for the radiosynthesis of enantiomerically pure radiotracers [18F](R)‐1 and [18F](S)‐1. The absolute configuration of the pure enantiomers was elucidated by comparison of their CD spectra with a calculated CD spectrum of a simplified model compound. In receptor binding studies, both enantiomers displayed very high σ1 receptor affinity and selectivity against the σ2 receptor. (R)‐Fluspidine ((R)‐1) is the eutomer, with a Ki value of 0.57 nM and a eudysmic ratio of 4. Incubation of (R)‐1 and (S)‐1 with rat liver microsomes led to the identification of seven and eight metabolites, respectively. Although the S‐configured enantiomer formed additional metabolite (S)‐1‐3, it is metabolically more stable than (R)‐1.
Body mass index and socioeconomic status measured in adolescence, country of origin, and the incidence of gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma in a cohort of 1 million men
Authors: Levi Zohar , Kark Jeremy D. , Shamiss Ari , Derazne Estela , Tzur Dorit , Keinan‐Boker Lital , Liphshitz Irena , Niv Yaron , Furman Moshe , Afek Arnon
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, little work has been done concerning adolescent precursors for gastroesophageal cancer. In the current study, the association of adolescent overweight as well as socioeconomic status (SES) with the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma (GEJAC), and noncardia gastric cancer (NCGC) was evaluated.

METHODS

Body mass index (BMI) was measured in 1 million Israeli adolescent males who underwent a general health examination at a mean age of 17.3 ± 0.5 years from 1967 to 2005. Overweight was defined as a BMI ≥ 85th percentile of the standard US distribution in adolescence. Incident cancer was identified by linkage with the Israeli National Cancer Registry.

RESULTS

A total of 182 incident cancer cases were documented (52 combined EAC and GEJAC cases and 130 NCGC cases). Adolescent overweight at baseline (BMI ≥ 85th percentile) was associated with an increased risk in the combined group of cases of EAC and GEJAC (multivariable hazards ratio [HR], 2.1; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.1‐4.3 [P = .032]). Low SES (the lowest category vs the highest) as well as low number of years of education (≤ 9 years) were associated with an increased risk of intestinal‐type NCGC (multivariable HR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.0‐4.8 [P = .041] and multivariable HR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1‐3.19 [P = .020], respectively). The adjusted risk of NCGC was higher in immigrants born in Asian countries and the former Soviet Union.

CONCLUSIONS

Overweight during adolescence was found to be substantially associated with the subsequent development of EAC and GEJAC. In addition, although potential confounding by Helicobacter pylori infection status or lifestyle factors was not fully accounted for in the analyses, lower SES as well as immigration from higher‐risk countries are important determinants of NCGC. Cancer 2013;119:4086–4093. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Tin Oxide Microspheres with Exposed {101} Facets for Dye‐sensitized Solar Cells: Enhanced Photocurrent and Photovoltage
Authors: Peng Wenqin , Yang Xudong , Chen Zhenhua , Zhang Jing , Chen Han , Zhang Kun , Han Liyuan
Published: October 2013

Hierarchical SnO2 microspheres with exposed {101} facets are synthesized by a one‐pot solvothermal reaction and explored as a scattering layer on top of a SnO2 nanoparticle film for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSCs). The microspheres not only enhance photon harvesting by effective light scattering/reflecting but also improve the energy level of the conduction band edge of the SnO2 photoanode, which leads to a simultaneous increase of the short‐circuit photocurrent by 17 % and open‐circuit photovoltage by 20 %. An improved overall conversion efficiency of 3.46 % is achieved for DSCs using the SnO2 microspheres, which is the highest value reported so far for pure‐SnO2 DSCs. Moreover, the SnO2‐microsphere DSCs exhibit a better photostability than the conventional TiO2 DSCs under simulated full sunlight.
Pou5f1 protein expression and posttranslational modification during early zebrafish development
Authors: Lippok Bernadette , Song Sungmin , Driever Wolfgang
Published: October 2013

Background: Pou5f1/Oct4 is a transcription factor essential for maintenance of pluripotency in mammals and for control of blastula and gastrula stage gene regulatory networks in zebrafish. Information on Pou5f1 protein distribution was before this study not available for zebrafish. Therefore, we generated polyclonal antibodies that selectively recognize Pou5f1 and analyzed its protein distribution and modification during development. Results: Pou5f1 protein is present in unfertilized oocytes, and persists in all embryonic and enveloping layer cell nuclei until the end of gastrulation, but is absent from yolk syncytial nuclei. Pou5f1 is subject to multiple developmentally regulated phosphorylations, with the higher phosphorylated forms prevailing in the oocyte and during late gastrulation. Conclusions: The developmental protein profile correlates with the stages during which deep cells are not committed to a specific germ layer. The posttranslational modification by phosphorylation opens the possibility that Pou5f1 may be subject to temporal or region specific modulation of its activity or stability by embryonic signaling mechanisms. Developmental Dynamics 243:468–477, 2014. © 2013 The Authors. Developmental Dynamics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐Dimensional Mercury Pnictide [Hg4Z2]2+ Cationic Frameworks Stabilized by Tetravalent Metal Halide Anions in Supramolecular Complexes: [Hg4Z2][MCl6] (Z = P, As; M = Zr, Hf)
Authors: Li Xiao‐Guo , Jiang Xiao‐Ming , Zhang Ming‐Jian , Liu Bin‐Wen , Fan Yu‐Hang , Guo Guo‐Cong , Huang Jin‐Shun
Published: October 2013

Four new inorganic supramolecular complexes, [Hg4P2][ZrCl6] (1), [Hg4As2][ZrCl6] (2), [Hg4P2][HfCl6] (3), and [Hg4As2][HfCl6] (4), have been prepared by moderate‐temperature solid‐state reactions. All compounds crystallize in the space group Pbca of the orthorhombic system with Z = 8. Their structures are built up of mercury pnictide cationic hosts and distorted octahedral [MCl6]2– (M = Zr, Hf) guests. The isolated octahedral guests consist of tetravalent Zr4+ and Hf4+ cations coordinated by chlorine atoms and are embedded in the infinite channels formed by the host framework. Their optical properties were investigated in terms of their diffuse reflectance and FTIR spectra. The electronic band structures along with densities of states (DOS) calculated by DFT indicate that all of the title compounds are semiconductors with direct band gaps, and their optical absorptions mainly originate from charge transitions from Cl 3p and P 3p/As 4p states to Hg 6s, Hg 5p, and Zr 4d/Hf 5d states. Optical dielectric constant calculations show that 1–4 possess dielectric anisotropy, which is consistent with their structural studies.
Kinetics of ionic dyes adsorption with magnetic‐modified sewage sludge
Authors: Hu Shao‐Hua , Hu Shen‐Chih
Published: October 2013

Sewage sludge is modified by pretreatment with a synthetic ferrite process, which turns the sewage sludge into an absorbent for ionic dyes and the adsorbent can be removed by a magnetic field. When Fe3O4 is synthesized on the surface of sewage sludge, the surface potential of particles is manipulated by adjusting the pH. For Fe3O4 synthesis, the molar ratio of Fe2+ to Fe3+ was 1. In our experiment, two magnetic adsorbents are made (A5 and A10) using 5 g and 10 g doses of sewage sludge, respectively. A5 is used to adsorb Procion Red Mx‐5B (PR) and A10 is used to adsorb Methylene Blue (MB). The specific surface area of A5 is 49.08 m2/g. The ideal pH for PR adsorption is found to be 3 with a maximum adsorption capacity of 0.031 mmol/g (18.83 mg/g). For A10, the specific surface area is 39.84 m2/g, and ideal pH is 6 for MB adsorption with maximum adsorption capacity being 0.078 mmol/g (25.06 mg/g). The kinetics study reveals that MB and PR adsorptions fit well a pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model, and the values of activation energy calculated from the rate constants are 42.82 kJ/mol and 47.19 kJ/mol for MB and PR, respectively. MB and PR adsorption can be characterized as activated chemical adsorption. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 905–912, 2014
Hydrothermal synthesis of platelet β Co(OH)2 and Co3O4: Smart electrode material for energy storage application
Authors: Ghosh Debasis , Giri Soumen , Das Chapal Kumar
Published: October 2013

Our present work deals with the hydrothermal synthesis of Platelet β Co(OH)2 using cobalt(II) acetate as the metal precursor and ammonia solution as the hydrolyzing agent. Electrochemical capacitive performance was studied through cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge discharge (CCD), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analyses with 6 M KOH as supporting electrolyte. The Electrochemical characterizations of the β Co(OH)2 in 6M KOH exhibited a maximum specific capacitance of 251 F/g at 2 mV/s scan rate and 228 F/g at 2 A/g constant current density accompanied with high cycle stability. Calcination of the β Co(OH)2 at 330°C leads to the formation of spinal Co3O4 exhibiting an increased specific capacitance of 270 F/g at 2mV/s scan rate and 238 F/g at 2A/g constant current density. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 1059–1064, 2014
Washoff of cypermethrin residues from slabs of external building material surfaces using simulated rainfall
Authors: Trask Jennifer R. , Harbourt Christopher M. , Miller Paul , Cox Megan , Jones Russell , Hendley Paul , Lam Chung
Published: October 2013

The use of pesticides by homeowners or pest-control operators in urban settings is common, yet contributions of washoff from these materials are not easily understood. In the present study, cypermethrin, formulated as Cynoff EC (emulsifiable concentrate) and Cynoff WP (wettable powder) insecticides, was applied at typical rates to 10 different building material surfaces to examine its washoff potential from each surface. Using an indoor rainfall simulator, a 1-h rainfall event was generated and washoff samples were collected from 3 replicates of each surface type. Washoff was analyzed for cypermethrin using gas chromatography-negative chemical ionization mass spectrometry. An analysis of variance for a split-plot design was performed. Many building materials had similar water runoff masses, but asphalt resulted in significantly reduced average water runoff masses (73% less). The Cynoff WP formulation generally produced greater cypermethrin washoff than the Cynoff EC formulation. In addition, results for both the WP and EC formulations indicated that smoother surfaces such as vinyl and aluminum siding had higher washoff (1.0–14.1% mean percentage of applied mass). Cypermethrin washoff from rough absorptive surfaces like concrete and stucco was lower and ranged from 0.1 to 1.3% and from 0 to 0.2%, respectively, mean percentage of applied mass. Both building material surface and formulation play a significant role in cypermethrin washoff. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:302–307. © 2013 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
An Adaptive, Comprehensive Monitoring Strategy for Chemicals of Emerging Concern (CECs) in California's Aquatic Ecosystems
Authors: Maruya Keith A. , Schlenk Daniel , Anderson Paul D. , Denslow Nancy D. , Drewes Jörg E. , Olivieri Adam W. , Scott Geoffrey I. , Snyder Shane A.
Published: October 2013

A scientific advisory panel was convened by the State of California to recommend monitoring for chemicals of emerging concern (CECs) in aquatic systems that receive discharge of municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent and stormwater runoff. The panel developed a risk-based screening framework that considered environmental sources and fate of CECs observed in receiving waters across the State. Using existing occurrence and risk threshold data in water, sediment, and biological tissue, the panel applied the framework to identify a priority list of CECs for initial monitoring in three representative receiving water scenarios. The initial screening list of 16 CECs identified by the panel included consumer and commercial chemicals, flame retardants, pesticides, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, and natural hormones. The panel designed an iterative, phased strategy with interpretive guidelines that direct and update management actions commensurate with potential risk identified using the risk-based framework and monitoring data. Because of the ever-changing nature of chemical use, technology, and management practices, the panel offered recommendations to improve CEC monitoring, including development of bioanalytical screening methods whose responses integrate exposure to complex mixtures and that can be linked to higher-order effects; development or refinement of models that predict the input, fate, and effects of future chemicals; and filling of key data gaps on CEC occurrence and toxicity. Finally, the panel stressed the need for adaptive management, allowing for future review of, and if warranted, modifications to the strategy to incorporate the latest science available to the water resources community. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2014;10:69–77. © 2013 SETAC
Potential cost‐effectiveness of the nonavalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
Authors: Drolet Mélanie , Laprise Jean‐François , Boily Marie‐Claude , Franco Eduardo L. , Brisson Marc
Published: October 2013

Randomized clinical trials are currently examining the efficacy of a nonavalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, including HPV‐types 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52/58. Evidence on the cost‐effectiveness of the nonavalent is required for timely policy‐decisions. We compared the potential cost‐effectiveness of the nonavalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines. We used a multi‐type individual‐based transmission‐dynamic model of HPV infection and diseases, 70‐year time‐horizon, 3% discount rate and healthcare payer perspective. We calibrated the model to Canadian sexual behavior and epidemiologic data, and estimated Quality‐Adjusted Life‐Years (QALYs) lost and costs ($CAN 2010) from the literature. Under base‐case assumptions (vaccinating 10‐year‐old girls, 80% coverage, 95$/dose, vaccine‐type efficacy = 95%, cross‐protection for the quadrivalent vaccine, duration of vaccine‐type protection (cross‐protection) = 20 (10) years), using the quadrivalent and nonavalent vaccines is estimated to cost $15,528 [12,056; 19,140] and $12,203 [9,331; 17,292] per QALY‐gained, respectively. At equal price, the nonavalent vaccine is more cost‐effective than the quadrivalent vaccine, even when assuming both shorter duration of protection (nonavalent = 20 years vs. quadrivalent = lifelong) and lower vaccine‐type efficacy (nonavalent = 85% vs. quadrivalent = 95%). However, the additional cost per dose of the nonavalent vaccine should not exceed $11 to remain more cost‐effective than the quadrivalent vaccine, and $24 to represent a cost‐effective alternative to the quadrivalent vaccine (using a $40,000/QALY‐gained threshold). The nonavalent vaccine can be a cost‐effective alternative to the quadrivalent vaccine, even in scenarios where nonavalent vaccine efficacy is 85%. However, because most cervical cancers are caused by HPV‐16/18, it is unlikely that the nonavalent would be used if its efficacy against these types is lower than current HPV vaccines.