bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An LC‐MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of cefprozil diastereomers in human plasma and its application for the bioequivalence study of two cefprozil tablets in healthy Chinese volunteers
Authors: Liu Min , Ma Jing‐Yi , Zhang Yanan , Wang Xiaolin , Zhao Hongna , Du Aihua , Yang Man , Meng Lingjie , Deng Ming , Liu Huichen
Published: June 2015

A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric method was developed for the first time and validated for the determination of cefprozil diastereomers in human plasma. The plasma samples were prepared by protein precipitation using acetonitrile. Detection was performed using an electronic spray ion source in the negative ion mode, operating in the multiple reaction monitoring of the transitions m/z 388.0 to m/z 205.0 for cefprozil diastereomers and m/z 346.1 to m/z 268.1 for cephalexin (the internal standard). The calibration curves of cis‐cefprozil and trans‐cefprozil were linear in the ranges 0.125–16.0 µg/mL and 0.0403–1.72 µg/mL, respectively. The lower limits of quantification of cis‐ and trans‐cefprozil were 0.125 and 0.0403 µg/mL in human plasma, respectively. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions of cis‐ and trans‐cefprozil were all <9.7%, and the accuracy ranged from 99.2 to 104.7% and from 100.6 to 102.2%, respectively. The validated method was successfully applied to a bioequivalence study of two cefprozil formulations in 24 healthy Chinese volunteers. The two cefprozil tablets were bioequivalent by measurement of cis‐, trans‐ and total cefprozil. We suggest that the bioequivalence of cefprozil formulations can be evaluated only using cis‐cefprozil as the analyte in future studies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How do you write and present research well?
Authors: Patience Gregory S. , Boffito Daria C. , Patience Paul A.
Published: June 2015

Research is only half the work; the other half is writing and publishing. Your research is incomplete until you publish your data.[1] Publishing is necessary but insufficient: others must cite your work.[2] Writing well and preparing a coherent story will help your paper get past the first hurdle in the publishing process –the copy editor. The second hurdle is the editor, who checks if it is suitable for the journal, and reviews the abstract, conclusions, and references.[3] The final hurdle is the reviewers, who devote more time to validate the hypotheses, results, and interpretation. Rejection rates across journals are increasing.[4] Science copy editors send one out of five submissions to the editors, and their overall rejection rate is 93 %. The Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering rejects close to 3 out of 4 papers researchers submit. Write better so journals accept your papers and researchers cite them.
Simultaneous Aromatic–Beryllium Bonds and Aromatic–Anion Interactions: Naphthalene and Pyrene as Models of Fullerenes, Carbon Single‐Walled Nanotubes, and Graphene
Authors: Marín‐Luna Marta , Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José , Mó Otilia , Yáñez Manuel
Published: June 2015

The possibility of forming stable BeR2:ArH:Y−(R=H, F, Cl; ArH=naphthalene, pyrene; Y=Cl, Br) ternary complexes in which the beryllium compounds and anions are located on the opposite sides of an extended aromatic system is explored by means of MP2/aug‐cc‐pVDZ ab initio calculations. Comparison of the electron‐density distribution of these ternary complexes with the corresponding BeR2:ArH and ArH:Y−binary complexes reveals the existence of significant cooperativity between the two noncovalent interactions in the triads. The energetic effects of this cooperativity are quantified by evaluation of the three‐body interaction energy Δ3Ein the framework of the many‐body interaction‐energy (MBIE) approach. Although an essential component of the interaction energies is electrostatic and is well reflected in the changes in the molecular electrostatic potential of the aromatic system on complexation, strong polarization effects, in particular for the BeR2:ArH interactions, also play a significant role. The charge transfers associated with these polarization effects are responsible for significant distortion of both the BeR2and the aromatic moieties. The former are systematically bent in all the complexes, and the latter are curved to a degree that depends on the nature of the R substituents of the BeR2subunit.
Lamellar versus Micellar Structures—Aggregation Behavior of a Three‐Chain Cationic Lipid Designed for Nonviral Polynucleotide Transfer
Authors: Wölk Christian , Janich Christopher , Pawlowska Dorota , Drescher Simon , Meister Annette , Hause Gerd , Dobner Bodo , Langner Andreas , Brezesinski Gerald
Published: June 2015

The front cover artwork is provided by the groups of Prof. Bodo Dobner, Prof. Andreas Langner, and research partners Dr. Gerd Hause, Dr. Simon Drescher, and Dr. Annette Meister (MLU Halle‐Wittenberg) as well as the group of Prof. Gerald Brezesinski (MPI of Colloids and Interfaces). The image shows the space‐filling model of a three‐chain amino‐functionalized lipid designed for gene transfer and the preferred pH‐dependent aggregates (multilamellar stacks, vesicles, rod‐like micelles). The background shows a Cryo‐TEM image of rod‐like micelles. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cphc.201500188.
Probing the Additional Capacity and Reaction Mechanism of the RuO2 Anode in Lithium Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Kim Yunok , Muhammad Shoaib , Kim Hyunchul , Cho Yong‐Hun , Kim Hansu , Kim Ji Man , Yoon Won‐Sub
Published: June 2015

The structural changes and electrochemical behavior of RuO2 are investigated by using in situ XRD, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, and electrochemical techniques to understand the electrochemical reaction mechanism of this metal oxide anode material. Intermediate phase‐assisted transformation of RuO2 to LiRuO2 takes place at the start of discharge. Upon further lithiation, LiRuO2 formed by intercalation decomposes to nanosized Ru metal and Li2O by a conversion reaction. A reversible capacity in addition to its theoretical capacity is observed on discharging below 0.5 V during which no redox activity involving Ru is observed. TEM, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the galvanostatic intermittent titration technique are used to probe this additional capacity. The results show that the additional capacity is a result of Li storage in the grain boundary between nanosized Ru metal and Li2O. Findings of this study provide a better understanding of the quantitative share of capacity by a unique combination of intercalation, conversion, and interfacial Li storage in a RuO2 anode.
A Bioinspired Molecular Polyoxometalate Catalyst with Two Cobalt(II) Oxide Cores for Photocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Wei Jie , Feng Yingying , Zhou Panpan , Liu Yan , Xu Jingyin , Xiang Rui , Ding Yong , Zhao Chongchao , Fan Linyuan , Hu Changwen
Published: June 2015

To overcome the bottleneck of water splitting, the exploration of efficient, selective, and stable water oxidation catalysts (WOCs) is crucial. We report an all‐inorganic, oxidatively and hydrolytically stable WOC based on a polyoxometalate [(A‐α‐SiW9O34)2Co8(OH)6(H2O)2(CO3)3]16− (Co8POM). As a cobalt(II)‐based cubane water oxidation catalyst, Co8POM embeds double CoII4O3 cores. The self‐assembled catalyst is similar to the oxygen evolving complex (OEC) of photosystem II (PS II). Using [Ru(bpy)3]2+ as a photosensitizer and persulfate as a sacrificial electron acceptor, Co8POM exhibits excellent water oxidation activity with a turnover number (TON) of 1436, currently the highest among bioinspired catalysts with a cubical core, and a high initial turnover frequency (TOF). Investigation by several spectroscopy, spectrometry, and other techniques confirm that Co8POM is a stable and efficient catalyst for visible light‐driven water oxidation. The results offer a useful insight into the design of water oxidation catalysts.
Sepsis‐induced immune alterations monitoring by flow cytometry as a promising tool for individualized therapy
Authors: Monneret Guillaume , Venet Fabienne
Published: June 2015

Septic syndromes remain a major although largely under‐recognized health care problem and represent the first cause of mortality in intensive care units. While sepsis has, for long, been solely described as inducing a tremendous systemic inflammatory response, novel findings indicate that sepsis indeed initiates a more complex immunologic response that varies over time, with the concomitant occurrence of both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory mechanisms. As a resultant, after a short proinflammatory phase, septic patients enter a stage of protracted immunosuppression. This is illustrated in those patients by reactivation of dormant viruses (CMV or HSV) or infections due to pathogens, including fungi, which are normally pathogenic solely in immunocompromised hosts. Although mechanisms are not totally understood, these alterations might be directly responsible for worsening outcome in patients who survived initial resuscitation as nearly all immune functions are deeply compromised. Indeed, the magnitude and persistence over time of these dysfunctions have been associated with increased mortality and health‐care associated infection rate. Consequently, new promising therapeutic avenues are currently emerging from those recent findings such as adjunctive immunostimulation (IFN‐γ, GM‐CSF, IL‐7, anti‐PD1/L1 antibodies) for the most immunosuppressed patients. Nevertheless, as there is no clinical sign of immune dysfunctions, the prerequisite for such therapeutic intervention relies on our capacity in identifying the patients who could benefit from immunostimulation. To date, the most robust biomarkers of sepsis‐induced immunosuppression are measured by flow cytometry. Of them, the decreased expression of monocyte HLA‐DR appears as a “gold standard.” This review reports on the mechanisms sustaining sepsis‐induced immunosuppression and its related biomarkers measurable by flow cytometry. The objective is to integrate the most recent facts in an up‐to‐date account of clinical results, flow cytometry aspects as well as issues in results standardization for multicenter studies. © 2015 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Searching for new mechanisms of myocardial fibrosis with diagnostic and/or therapeutic potential
Authors: Heymans Stephane , González Arantxa , Pizard Anne , Papageorgiou Anna P. , López‐Andrés Natalia , Jaisser Frédéric , Thum Thomas , Zannad Faiez , Díez Javier
Published: June 2015

Myocardial fibrosis is the result of excessive fibrillar collagen synthesis and deposition without reciprocally balanced degradation. It causes cardiac dysfunction, arrhythmias, and ischaemia, and thereby determines the clinical course and outcome of cardiac patients even when adequately treated. Therefore, further research is needed to identify and better understand the factors that trigger and maintain the myocardial fibrotic response against different injuries in a variety of cardiac diseases. Here, we will focus on the following major areas of research: molecules that stimulate the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and subsequently alter collagen turnover (e.g. cardiotrophin‐1, galectin‐3, NADPH oxidases, and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin), microRNA‐induced alterations of collagen gene expression, and matricellular protein‐ and lysyl oxidase‐mediated alterations of collagen cross‐linking and deposition.
Origin of Projected Excellent Thermoelectric Transport Properties in d0‐Electron AMN2 (A = Sr or Ba; M = Ti, Zr, Hf) Layered Complex Metal Nitrides
Authors: Ohkubo Isao , Mori Takao
Published: June 2015

Layered materials have several properties that make them suitable as high‐performance thermoelectric materials. In this study, we elucidated the potential of d0‐electron layered complex metal nitrides, AMN2 (A = Sr or Ba; M = Ti, Zr, Hf), with KCoO2‐type and α‐NaFeO2‐type crystal structures. The detailed electronic structures and electronic transport coefficients for AMN2 compounds were calculated by using density‐functional theory and Boltzmann theory, respectively. The KCoO2‐type AMN2 compounds show highly anisotropic thermoelectric properties. The effective masses at the lowest conduction bands in both KCoO2‐type and α‐NaFeO2‐type AMN2 compounds were significantly smaller than that in three‐dimensional perovskite SrTiO3, a well‐known compound with good thermoelectric properties. The results suggest that the excellent thermoelectric transport properties arise from appropriate electronic structures and small effective masses in AMN2 layered complex metal nitrides.
Monoglycerides, polyglycerol esters, lecithin, and their mixtures influence the onset of non‐isothermal fat crystallization in a concentration dependent manner
Authors: Daels Eva , Rigolle Annelien , Raes Katleen , De Block Jan , Foubert Imogen
Published: June 2015

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of commercially available monoacylglycerol (M), polyglycerol esters (P), and sunflower lecithin (L) on the onset of crystallization of bulk fat as a function of the added concentration. Not only a single type of emulsifier, but also binary and ternary mixtures of M, P, and L were added to the two different “host” fats using a statistically sound mixture design. The obtained mixtures were analyzed for their non‐isothermal crystallization behavior by differential scanning calorimetry. If a single type of emulsifier was added, the nucleation was accelerated when adding M or P, while L addition had no significant effect. Furthermore, it was shown that the minimum concentration necessary to provoke a nucleation accelerating effect is lower for P than for M. Antagonistic effects between M and L (and not between P and L) were suggested by the coefficient estimates of the special cubic model.

Practical applications: Palm oil (PO) is one of the most consumed vegetable oils in the world because of its unique physical properties. It imparts a very high stability to the β′ crystal form, yielding relatively small crystals which give a smooth texture to e.g., margarines and shortenings. Because PO is semi‐solid at room temperature, it forms an ideal hard stock to be used in trans free food products. However, PO has a slow crystallization rate and an unusually long α‐lifetime. These disadvantages can be overcome by the addition of an emulsifier acting as crystallization modifier (e.g., monoacylglycerols and diacylglycerols) . Furthermore, from a nutritional point of view, the saturated fatty acids present in PO , are among the factors contributing to cardio‐vascular diseases . When using more unsaturated fats as hard stock, the use of additives in order to avoid compromising the functionality of the food product should be further investigated.

This study investigated the influence of commercially available monoacylglycerol (M), polyglycerol esters (P), and sunflower lecithin (L) on the onset of crystallization of bulk fat as a function of the added concentration. Not only a single type of emulsifier, but also binary and ternary mixtures of M, P, and L were added to the two different “host” fats using a statistically sound mixture design. The total amount of emulsifiers in each blend was set to 1.5%. The obtained mixtures were analyzed for their non‐isothermal crystallization behavior by differential scanning calorimetry. It was shown that the effect on the onset of crystallization of the bulk fat depends on the type and the concentration of emulsifier.
Center of Gravity (COG) Method as a Tool in Processing of Voltammetric Signals
Authors: Jović Ozren , Omanović Dario , Zelić Marina , Pižeta Ivanka
Published: June 2015

The center of gravity method (COG) was applied (for the first time) in voltammetry (polarography) as a tool for very precise determination of peak potentials, and signal shifts. Basically, the adjustment of the method consists of finding the optimal fraction of the peak that contains information about peak position, either of original signal or of its 1st or 2nd derivatives, along with optimal selection of parameters for SavitzkyGolay smoothing of original curves and elimination of baseline influence. The principle of the method and its validation were demonstrated and checked on simulated differential pulse polarograms (DPP) representing a series of curves for the determination of stability constants of labile metal complexes (DeFord‐Hume method). It was shown that COG outperforms the classical “one‐point” method (OPM) in precision and accuracy, providing excellent results even if a very large step potential (e.g. 10 mV) was used. The problems of reduced accuracy and precision in case of curved (non‐ideal) baseline and asymmetric peaks were successfully overcome by applying COG on curves transformed by 1st and/or 2nd derivatives. The method was additionally examined in details on a simple experimental dataset of cadmium chloride complexes in 4 mol dm−3 ionic strength solution and on a more complex dataset of uranyl selenate complexes in 3 mol dm−3 ionic strength solution. Stability constants obtained by COG agree well with those in the literature with much better precision than the classical one‐point method (checked by standard error of the fit).
Application of the Generalized Molar‐Ratio Method to the Determination of the Stoichiometry and Apparent Binding Constant of Nanoparticle‐Organic Capping Systems
Authors: Doménech‐Carbó Antonio , González‐Béjar María , Pérez‐Prieto Julia
Published: June 2015

A generalization of the molar‐ratio method is applied to the determination of the stoichiometry and apparent binding constant of metal nanoparticle‐organic capping complexes (MmLx) using voltammetric data for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in air‐saturated aqueous phosphate buffer solutions. The method is applied to the formation of binary nanohybrids consisting of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) capped with a rigid spacer, cucurbit[7]uril (CB), termed AuNP@CB, as well as to the formation of their ternary complexes (MmLxBz) with methylene blue (MB), termed AuNP@CB@MB. The obtained stoichiometries correspond to binding of four Au surface atoms for each CB unit.
Performance testing of thermal and photovoltaic thermal solar collectors
Authors: Allan James , Dehouche Zahir , Stankovic Sinisa , Mauricette Lascelle
Published: June 2015

This work details a methodology to characterize the performance of solar thermal and photovoltaic thermal (PVT) collectors using an indoor solar simulator. In this study, several cases have been compared to show that the methodology can be used to extract fundamental performance characteristics from a solar collector. In the first case, a serpentine collector was compared against a header riser collector using the same mass flow rate. It was found that the header riser was less efficient, with a 34% increase in the overall loss coefficient. The experimental results were compared with commonly used empirical models and showed a close agreement. In the second case, the impact on performance of using a polycarbonate cover is presented. The results show that the optical efficiency of the collector is reduced by 12% when using a cover; however, because the loss coefficient is reduced by 53%, the covered collector performs better when there is a large temperature difference between the absorber and the ambient. The third case investigates the combined performance of a PVT collector, that produces both heat and electricity from a single device. By placing photovoltaic (PV) laminates on top of the serpentine absorber, the thermal efficiency is reduced by 15%. When electricity is generated by laminates, the thermal efficiency is reduced by a further 3.5%; this drop in thermal efficiency is a result of the incident radiation producing electricity before reaching the thermal absorber. The combined efficiency of the PVT collectors was compared at controlled inlet temperatures. The serpentine design had the highest combined efficiency of 61% with 8% electricity at the lowest inlet temperature (21°C). The dominant form of loss in the PVT system is temperature driven; as the thermal efficiency decreases, electricity generation makes up a larger percentage of the combined output. This study highlights the potential for manufacturers of bespoke thermal absorbers and PV devices to combine their products into a single PVT device that could achieve improved efficiency over a given roof area.
Occurrence of glucocorticoids discharged from a sewage treatment plant in Japan and the effects of clobetasol propionate exposure on the immune responses of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) to bacterial infection
Authors: Nakayama Kei , Sato Kentaro , Shibano Takazumi , Isobe Tomohiko , Suzuki Go , Kitamura Shin-Ichi
Published: June 2015

The present study evaluated the environmental risks to common carp (Cyprinus carpio) posed by glucocorticoids present in sewage treatment plant (STP) effluent. To gather information on the seasonal variations in glucocorticoid concentration, the authors sampled the effluent of a Japanese STP every other week for 12 mo. Six of 9 selected glucocorticoids were detected in the effluent, with clobetasol propionate and betamethasone 17-valerate detected at the highest concentrations and frequencies. The present study's results indicated that effluent glucocorticoid concentration may depend on water temperature, which is closely related to the removal efficiency of the STP or to seasonal variations in the public's use of glucocorticoids. In a separate experiment, to clarify whether glucocorticoids in environmental water increase susceptibility to bacterial infection in fish, the authors examined the responses to bacterial infection (Aeromonas veronii) of common carp exposed to clobetasol propionate. Clobetasol propionate exposure did not affect bacterial infection-associated mortality. In fish infected with A. veronii but not exposed to clobetasol propionate, head kidney weight and number of leukocytes in the head kidney were significantly increased (p < 0.05), whereas these effects were not observed in infected fish exposed to clobetasol. This suggests that clobetasol propionate alleviated bacterial infection-associated inflammation. Together, these results indicate that susceptibility to bacterial infection in common carp is not affected by exposure to glucocorticoids at environmentally relevant concentrations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:946–952. © 2015 SETAC
Therapeutic plasma exchange as a therapeutic modality for the treatment of IVIG complications
Authors: Welsh Kerry J. , Bai Yu
Published: June 2015

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is used for the treatment of a number of inflammatory conditions. Hemolysis due to passive transfer of blood group antibodies is a well recognized complication of IVIG therapy. Therapy is largely supportive and consists of blood product support and hemodialysis. We report the use of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) as adjunct therapy for three patients with complications attributed to IVIG. Two patients had hemolysis attributed to IVIG; one patient was blood group A and the other blood group O. The third patient was an orthotopic heart transplant recipient with a type A donor heart, and anti‐A antibodies detected after infusion of IVIG for suspected antibody mediated rejection. Two patients had anti‐A titers available that decreased after initiation of plasma exchange. The blood group O patient with hemolysis had a gradual stabilization of hemoglobin and resolution of the positive DAT. TPE may be useful therapy for patients with severe hemolysis caused by IVIG or at risk for tissue damage by blood group antibodies. J. Clin. Apheresis 30:371–374, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A matter of priorities? Exploring the persistent gender pay gap in hospital medicine
Authors: Weaver A. Charlotta , Wetterneck Tosha B. , Whelan Chad T. , Hinami Keiki
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Gender earnings disparities among physicians exist even after considering differences in specialty, part‐time status, and practice type. Little is known about the role of job satisfaction priorities on earnings differences.

OBJECTIVE

To examine gender differences in work characteristics and job satisfaction priorities, and their relationship with gender earnings disparities among hospitalists.

DESIGN

Observational cross‐sectional survey study.

PARTICIPANTS

US hospitalists in 2010.

MEASUREMENTS

Self‐reported income, work characteristics, and priorities among job satisfaction domains.

RESULTS

On average, women compared to men hospitalists were younger, less likely to be leaders, worked fewer full‐time equivalents, worked more nights, reported fewer daily billable encounters, more were pediatricians, worked in university settings, worked in the Western United States, and were divorced. More hospitalists of both genders prioritized optimal workload among the satisfaction domains. However, substantial pay ranked second in prevalence by men and fourth by women. Women hospitalists earned $14,581 less than their male peers in an analysis adjusting for these differences.

CONCLUSIONS

The gender earnings gap persists among hospitalists. A portion of the disparity is explained by the fewer women hospitalists compared to men who prioritize pay. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:486–490. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Is weekend discharge associated with hospital readmission?
Authors: Cloyd Jordan M. , Chen Joy C. , Ma Yifei , Rhoads Kim F.
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

Although recent evidence suggests worse outcomes for patients admitted to the hospital on a weekend, the impact of weekend discharge is less understood.

METHODS

Utilizing the 2012 California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development database, the impact of weekend discharge on 30‐day hospital readmission rates for patients admitted with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), congestive heart failure (CHF), or pneumonia (PNA) was investigated.

RESULTS

Out of 266,519 patients, 60,097 (22.5%) were discharged on a weekend. Unadjusted 30‐day hospital readmission rates were similar between weekend and weekday discharges (AMI: 21.9% vs 21.9%; CHF: 15.4% vs 16.0%; PNA: 12.1% vs 12.4%). Patients discharged on a weekday had a longer length of stay and were more often discharged to a skilled nursing facility. However, in multivariable logistic regression models, weekend discharge was not associated with readmission (AMI: odds ratio [OR] 1.02 [95% CI: 0.98‐1.06]; CHF: OR 0.99 [95% CI: 0.94‐1.03]; PNA: OR 1.02 (95% CI: 0.98‐1.07)).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients in California with AMI, CHF, and PNA, discharge on a weekend was not associated with an increased hospital readmission rate. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:731–737. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
Understanding predictors of prolonged hospitalizations among general medicine patients: A guide and preliminary analysis
Authors: Anderson Mary E. , Glasheen Jeffrey J. , Anoff Debra , Pierce Read , Capp Roberta , Jones Christine D.
Published: June 2015

Targeting patients with prolonged hospitalizations may represent an effective strategy for reducing average hospital length of stay (LOS). We sought to characterize predictors of prolonged hospitalizations among general medicine patients to guide future improvement efforts. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using administrative data of general medicine patients discharged from inpatient status from our academic medical center between 2012 and 2014. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess the association between sociodemographic and clinical variables with prolonged LOS, defined as >21 days. Of 18,363 discharges, 416 (2.3%) demonstrated prolonged LOS. Prolonged hospitalizations accounted for 18.6% of total inpatient days and contributed 0.8 days to an average LOS of 4.8 days during the study period. Prolonged hospitalizations were associated with younger age (odds ratio [OR]: 0.80 per 10‐year increase in age, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73–0.87) and Medicaid insurance (OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.29–3.05, REF = Medicare). Compared to patients without prolonged LOS, prolonged LOS patients were more likely to have methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus septicemia (OR: 8.83, 95% CI: 1.72–45.36); require a palliative care consult (OR: 4.63, 95% CI: 2.86–7.49), ICU stay (OR: 6.66, 95% CI: 5.22–8.50), or surgery (OR: 5.04, 95% CI: 3.90–6.52); and be discharged to a post–acute‐care facility (OR: 10.37, 95% CI: 6.92–15.56). Prolonged hospitalizations in a small proportion of patients were an important contributor to overall LOS and particularly affected Medicaid enrollees with complex hospital stays who were not discharged home. Further studies are needed to determine the reasons for discharge delays in this population. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2015;10:623–626. © 2015 Society of Hospital Medicine
In Harm's Way: Children's Work in Risky Occupations in Brazil
Authors: DeGraff Deborah S. , Ferro Andrea R. , Levison Deborah
Published: June 2015

There were large numbers of child workers in domestic services, street work, construction and selected areas of agricultural production in Brazil at the turn of the century. These kinds of occupations are often problematic for youth. We show that children engaged in these risky categories of work are more disadvantaged than other employed children and non‐employed children. Results from a large representative survey show that children in ‘risky’ work are more likely to have parents also engaged in hazardous activities or be living without both parents, characteristics that may be useful for targeting policy. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diverse mutants of HIV RRE IIB recognize wild‐type Rev ARM or Rev ARM R35G‐N40V
Authors: Abdallah Emane Y. , Smith Colin A.
Published: June 2015

The binding of human immunodeficiency virus Rev protein via its arginine‐rich motif (ARM) to an internal loop in the Rev‐response element region IIB (RRE IIB) is necessary for viral replication. Many variant RNAs and ARMs that bind Rev and RRE IIB have been found. Despite the essential role of Rev asparagine 40 in recognition, the Rev ARM double‐mutant R35G‐N40V functions well in a Rev–RRE IIB reporter assay, indicating R35G‐N40V uses a distinct recognition strategy. To examine how RRE IIB may evolve specificity to wild‐type Rev ARM and R35G‐N40V, 10 RRE IIB libraries, each completely randomized in overlapping regions, were screened with wild‐type Rev ARM and R35G‐N40V using a reporter system based on bacteriophage λ N antitermination. Consistent with previous studies, a core element of RRE IIB did not vary, and substitutions occurred at conserved residues only in the presence of other substitutions. Notably, the groove‐widening, non‐canonical base‐pair G48:G71 was mutable to U48:G71 without strong loss of binding to wild‐type Rev ARM, suggesting U48:G71 performs the same role by adopting the nearly isosteric, reverse wobble base pair. Originating from RRE IIB, as few as one or two substitutions are sufficient to confer specificity to wild‐type Rev or Rev R35G‐N40. The diversity of RRE IIB mutants that maintain binding to wild‐type Rev ARM and R35G‐N40V supports neutral theories of evolution and illustrates paths by which viral RNA–protein interactions can evolve new specificities. Rev–RRE offers an excellent model with which to study the fine structure of how specificity evolves. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of hydroxymethylpyrazines using mass spectrometry
Authors: Bohman Björn , Flematti Gavin R. , Barrow Russell A.
Published: June 2015

Pyrazines are well‐known natural products that are present in bacterial odours and food flavouring agents and are used as insect pheromones. Recently, a number of hydroxymethylpyrazines have been identified as thynnine wasp pheromones and orchid semiochemicals that are essential for pollination in sexually deceptive plants. These compounds are present in low amounts in complex blends, making GC–MS (including high‐resolution techniques) the method of choice for their structure elucidation. We report the EI mass spectra for 14 representative compounds and have found that based on characteristic fragmentations, it is possible to distinguish between different positional isomers of hydroxymethylpyrazines. The presence or absence of either [M − 17]+, [M − 18]+· or [M − 19]+ fragment species provides characteristic information to allow the distinction between the different isomers. Considering the importance of pyrazines as a group of bioactive natural products, and the recent findings of biological activity for hydroxymethylpyrazines, our results presented here will aid the identification of these compounds in other biological systems. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preservation of different fig cultivars (Ficus carica L.) under modified atmosphere packaging during cold storage
Authors: Villalobos María del Carmen , Serradilla Manuel Joaquín , Martín Alberto , López Corrales Margarita , Pereira Cristina , Córdoba María de Guía
Published: June 2015

BACKGROUND

The effect of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the stability of ‘Cuello Dama Blanco’ (CDB), ‘Cuello Dama Negro’ (CDN) and ‘San Antonio’ (SA) figs during post‐harvest cold storage was evaluated by using three different films with a diverse number of microperforations (diameter, ø = 100 µm): M10 (16 holes), M30 (five holes) and M50 (three holes). A macroperforated film was used as control (five holes, ø = 9 mm). Gas composition, weight loss, percentage disorder, microbial counts and physico‐chemical parameters were monitored during cold storage for 21 days. Furthermore, sensory quality was also evaluated.

RESULTS

MAP has allowed the extension of cold storage and distribution time for the three different cultivars of figs, minimising weight loss and delaying pathological disorders related to endosepsis, smut, and souring. Of the three cultivars, the M50 batch (one hole per 50 mm) showed the best efficiency in terms of physico‐chemical quality and delay of post‐harvest decay, although the M30 batch was also found to be suitable for delaying the post‐harvest decay, especially for the CDB cultivar.

CONCLUSION

MAP is a useful tool to extend the storability with optimal quality properties for CDN and SA during 21 days of cold storage and 14–17 days of cold storage for CDB. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Benthic community metabolism in deep and shallow Arctic lakes during 13 years of whole–lake fertilization
Authors: Daniels William C. , Kling George W. , Giblin Anne E.
Published: June 2015

Benthic primary production and oxygen consumption are important components of lake biogeochemical cycling. We performed whole–lake nutrient manipulations in Arctic Alaska to assess the controls of lake morphometry, nutrients, and light on benthic community metabolism. One deep, stratified lake (Lake E5) and one shallow, well–mixed lake (Lake E6) in the Alaskan Arctic were fertilized with low levels of nitrogen (56 mg N m−3 yr−1) and phosphorus (8 mg P m−3 yr−1) from 2001 to 2013. Benthic primary production was not stimulated by fertilization in either lake. In the deep lake, decreased water clarity is consistent with an increase in phytoplankton biomass during fertilization. Benthic GPP decreased by 7–47 mg C m−2 d−1 (not statistically significant) and benthic respiration increased from 87 ± 20 to 167 ± 9 (SE) mg C m−2 d−1. The areal hypolimnetic oxygen deficit increased by 15 mg O2 m−2 d−1 each year during the 13 yr of monitoring, apparently driven by lower (more negative) benthic NEP. In the shallow lake, phytoplankton concentration did not change with fertilization. As a result, the light environment did not change and benthic GPP did not decrease. Overall the data suggest that (1) benthic algae are not nutrient limited in either the deep or shallow lake, (2) lake morphometry modulated the overall nutrient impact on benthic metabolism by controlling the response of phytoplankton, and by extension, light and organic carbon supply to the benthos, (3) year–to–year variability in light attenuation explains considerable variability in benthic GPP between lakes and years, (4) correlations between both dissolved organic carbon concentrations and light attenuation coefficients (kd) between lakes suggests a regional control on light attenuation, and (5) the dissolved oxygen concentrations in the deep experimental lake are highly sensitive to nutrient enrichment.
Refractory metals and nickel in high temperature chlorine‐containing environments ‐ thermodynamic prediction of volatile corrosion products and surface reaction mechanisms: a review
Authors: Galetz M.C. , Rammer B. , Schütze M.
Published: June 2015

Thermodynamic calculations are an important tool for prediction of chemical reactions. In many cases the results help to understand and describe the experimental observations. In others, especially if reaction kinetics play a major role, their predictive value can be rather limited and the projected results have to be treated with care. One such case are high temperature chlorine corrosion conditions.

For example, thermodynamically a similar corrosion behavior of nickel and molybdenum is predicted in chlorine‐containing atmospheres at low oxygen partial pressures. In contrast to their calculated similarity, experimental results showed much higher resistance of molybdenum against the chlorinating attack. Above 800 °C nickel is rapidly consumed, whereas molybdenum remains almost inert.

This paper reviews the literature on the corrosion mechanisms and kinetics of nickel and molybdenum in chlorine‐containing environments as well as in mixed oxygen‐chlorine‐containing atmospheres. Based on the literature review, differences in their reaction kinetics are discussed, taking into account the deviation from an ideal thermodynamic correlation between the partial pressure and the reaction kinetics via the often used Hertz‐Langmuir equation. Finally it is shown that the findings concerning the special characteristics of molybdenum and nickel and the conclusions drawn from experimental observations on high temperature chlorine corrosion can also be transferred to other metals.
Corrosion inhibition of high strength maraging steel by cerium(III) ions in sulfuric acid solution
Authors: Rosalbino F. , Scavino G.
Published: June 2015

The influence of rare earth Ce(III) ions on the corrosion behaviour of high strength maraging steel in 0.5 M sulfuric acid solution was studied by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. Ce3+ can significantly reduce corrosion deterioration up to 5.0 mM. Beyond that level the corrosion rate increases till a steady value. High corrosion protection of steel surface after exposure to the acidic solution containing the optimal Ce(III) concentration is revealed by SEM investigations.
Restless Legs Syndrome and Hypertension in Mexican Women
Authors: Catzín‐Kuhlmann Andrés , Juárez‐Armenta Alma , Ortiz‐Panozo Eduardo , Monge‐Urrea Adriana , Puchner Karl P. , Cantú‐Brito Carlos , López‐Ridaura Ruy , Rice Megan S. , Kurth Tobias , Lajous Martín
Published: June 2015

Background

RLS is a common chronic disorder characterized by an irresistible need to move the lower limbs that affects sleep. Poor sleep has been associated with increased blood pressure (BP). Thus, we evaluated the cross‐sectional relationship between RLS and hypertension (HTN) in a large cohort study in Mexico.

Methods

In 2011, 54,925 female participants from the Mexican Teachers’ Cohort responded to a four‐item questionnaire based on the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group's minimal diagnostic criteria. Women also reported diagnosis and treatment of HTN. We used multivariable logistic regression models to estimate prevalence odds ratios (ORs) for HTN, adjusting for lifestyle and dietary factors. We also estimated adjusted prevalence ORs for HTN by frequency of RLS symptoms.

Results

We identified 9,230 cases (17%) of RLS, and the prevalence of HTN was 13.1% among women with RLS and 9.4% among those without RLS. The multivariable‐adjusted prevalence OR for HTN comparing women with to those without RLS was 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10–1.26). Compared to those without RLS, the prevalence OR of HTN in women reporting a symptom frequency of once a month or less was 1.14 (95% CI: 1.00–1.30); among those with symptoms two to four times a month, the OR was 1.17 (95% CI: 1.05–1.30); and for those with symptoms at least two times a week, the OR was 1.22 (95% CI: 1.10–1.35).

Conclusion

We observed an association between RLS and HTN. Future studies should evaluate the impact of treating RLS on BP.
How R&D Competition Affects Investment Choices
Authors: Lafay Thierry , Maximin Céline
Published: June 2015

We analyze firm research and development investment incentives in a framework in which only one innovation can be undertaken. We assume that the probability of discovering the innovation depends on a parameter that represents the technical difficulty of innovating. We show that patent protection is not always necessary for investments to be made. With patent protection, research and development competition leads to a symmetric equilibrium. Moreover, firms over‐invest in marginal innovation but under‐invest in difficult innovation, which explains why and how public authorities should intervene to promote specific research in certain economic sectors. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) as a tool to measure dehydration in mice
Authors: Li Matthew , Vassiliou Christophoros C. , Colucci Lina A. , Cima Michael J.
Published: June 2015

Dehydration is a prevalent pathology, where loss of bodily water can result in variable symptoms. Symptoms can range from simple thirst to dire scenarios involving loss of consciousness. Clinical methods exist that assess dehydration from qualitative weight changes to more quantitative osmolality measurements. These methods are imprecise, invasive, and/or easily confounded, despite being practiced clinically. We investigate a non‐invasive, non‐imaging 1H NMR method of assessing dehydration that attempts to address issues with existing clinical methods. Dehydration was achieved by exposing mice (n = 16) to a thermally elevated environment (37 °C) for up to 7.5 h (0.11–13% weight loss). Whole body NMR measurements were made using a Bruker LF50 BCA‐Analyzer before and after dehydration. Physical lean tissue, adipose, and free water compartment approximations had NMR values extracted from relaxation data through a multi‐exponential fitting method. Changes in before/after NMR values were compared with clinically practiced metrics of weight loss (percent dehydration) as well as blood and urine osmolality. A linear correlation between tissue relaxometry and both animal percent dehydration and urine osmolality was observed in lean tissue, but not adipose or free fluids. Calculated R2 values for percent dehydration were 0.8619 (lean, P < 0.0001), 0.5609 (adipose, P = 0.0008), and 0.0644 (free fluids, P = 0.3445). R2 values for urine osmolality were 0.7760 (lean, P < 0.0001), 0.5005 (adipose, P = 0.0022), and 0.0568 (free fluids, P = 0.3739). These results suggest that non‐imaging 1H NMR methods are capable of non‐invasively assessing dehydration in live animals. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new predictor–corrector approach for the numerical integration of coupled electromechanical equations
Authors: Tripodi E. , Musolino A. , Rizzo R. , Raugi M.
Published: June 2015

In this paper, a new approach for the numerical solution of coupled electromechanical problems is presented. The structure of the considered problem consists of the low‐frequency integral formulation of the Maxwell equations coupled with Newton–Euler rigid‐body dynamic equations. Two different integration schemes based on the predictor–corrector approach are presented and discussed. In the first method, the electrical equation is integrated with an implicit single‐step time marching algorithm, while the mechanical dynamics is studied by a predictor–corrector scheme. The predictor uses the forward Euler method, while the corrector is based on the trapezoidal rule. The second method is based on the use of two interleaved predictor–corrector schemes: one for the electrical equations and the other for the mechanical ones.

Both the presented methods have been validated by comparison with experimental data (when available) and with results obtained by other numerical formulations; in problems characterized by low speeds, both schemes produce accurate results, with similar computation times. When high speeds are involved, the first scheme needs shorter time steps (i.e., longer computation times) in order to achieve the same accuracy of the second one. A brief discussion on extending the algorithm for simulating deformable bodies is also presented. An example of application to a two‐degree‐of‐freedom levitating device based on permanent magnets is finally reported. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Patient attitudes towards prenatal diagnostic testing for inherited retinal disease
Authors: Ahmed Khuram , Ahmed Mushtaq , Potrata Barbara , Willis Thomas A. , Grant Hilary L. , Allsop Matthew J. , Hewison Jenny , Downey Louise , Gale Richard , McKibbin Martin
Published: June 2015

Objective

To explore factors that influence decision‐making in relation to prenatal diagnostic testing (PDT) for inherited retinal disease (IRD).

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 50 adults with IRD, selected from a larger sample to provide a diversity of backgrounds and opinions on genetic testing. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Mostly participants supported PDT, believing that it would provide information to help them prepare for and plan the future care of the child and the potential for early access to emerging therapies. Opposition to PDT stemmed from its use to justify termination of pregnancy, with participants feeling that it was not justified as they retained a good quality of life despite their visual impairment. Participants raised concerns about the risk of PDT and the accuracy of the results. However, most suggested that it should be available as an option for others, but for specific reasons and not as a part of routine care.

Conclusion

The variation in attitudes towards PDT and uncertainty about the risk and accuracy of results suggest that individuals at risk of having a child with IRD should have access to genetic counselling to support decision making. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performances of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) ultrafiltration membranes modified with poly(vinyl pyrrolidone)
Authors: Kanagaraj Palsamy , Nagendran Alagumalai , Rana Dipak , Matsuura Takeshi , Neelakandan Sivasubramaniyan , Revathi Rajendran , Pandiyarajan Nambirajan
Published: June 2015

The structure and performance of modified poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVdF‐co‐HFP) ultra‐filtration membranes prepared from casting solutions with different concentrations of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) were investigated in this study. Membrane properties were studied in terms of membrane compaction, pure water flux (PWF), water content (WC), membrane hydraulic resistance (Rm), protein rejection, molecular weight cut‐off (MWCO), average pore size, and porosity. PWF, WC, and thermal stability of the blend membranes increased whereas the crystalline nature and mechanical strength of the blend membranes decreased when PVP additive concentration was increased. The contact angle (CA) decreased as the PVP concentration increased in the casting solution, which indicates that the hydro‐philicity of the surface increased upon addition of PVP. The average pore size and porosity of the PVdF‐co‐HFP membrane increased to 42.82 Å and 25.12%, respectively, when 7.5 wt% PVP was blended in the casting solution. The MWCO increased from 20 to 45 kDa with an increase in PVP concentration from 0 to 7.5 wt%. The protein separation study revealed that the rejection increased as the protein molecular weight increased. The PVdF‐co‐HFP/PVP blended membrane prepared from a 7.5 wt% PVP solution had a maximum flux recovery ratio of 74.3%, which explains its better antifouling properties as compared to the neat PVdF‐co‐HFP membrane. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2482–2492, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers