bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organorhodium‐Functionalized Periodic Mesoporous Organosilica: High Hydrophobicity Promotes Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Liu Rui , Jin Ronghua , Kong Lingyu , Wang Jinyu , Chen Chen , Cheng Tanyu , Liu Guohua
Published: September 2013

Three organosilica‐bridged periodic mesoporous organosilicas were prepared by the immobilization of a chiral N‐sulfonylated diamine‐based organorhodium complex within their silicate network. Structural analysis and characterization confirmed their well‐defined single‐site active rhodium centers, whilst electron microscopy revealed their highly ordered hexagonal mesostructures. Among these three different organosilica‐bridged periodic mesoporous organosilicas, the ethylene‐bridged periodic mesoporous organosilica catalyst exhibited excellent heterogeneous catalytic activity and high enantioselectivity in the aqueous asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of aromatic ketones. This superior catalytic performance was attributed to its salient hydrophobicity, whilst its comparable enantioselectivity relative to the homogeneous catalyst was derived from the confined nature of the chiral organorhodium catalytic sites. Furthermore, this ethylene‐bridged periodic mesoporous organosilica could be conveniently recovered and reused at least 12 times without the loss of its catalytic activity. This feature makes this catalyst attractive for practical organic synthesis in an environmentally friendly manner. This study offers a general way of optimizing the bridged organosilica moiety in periodic mesoporous organosilicas, thereby enhancing its catalytic activity in heterogeneous catalysis.
Tuning the Stability of CaCO3 Crystals with Magnesium Ions for the Formation of Aragonite Thin Films on Organic Polymer Templates
Authors: Zhu Fangjie , Nishimura Tatsuya , Sakamoto Takeshi , Tomono Hidekazu , Nada Hiroki , Okumura Yasushi , Kikuchi Hirotsugu , Kato Takashi
Published: September 2013

Thin‐film growth of aragonite CaCO3 on annealed poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrices is induced by adding Mg2+ into a supersaturated solution of CaCO3. Both the growth rate and surface morphology of the aragonite thin films depend upon the concentration of Mg2+ in the mineralization solution. In the absence of PVA matrices, no thin films are formed, despite the presence of Mg2+. Molecular dynamics simulation of the CaCO3 precursor suggests that the transition of amorphous calcium carbonate to crystals is suppressed in the presence of Mg2+. The role for ionic additives in the crystallization of CaCO3 on organic templates obtained in this study may provide useful information for the development of functional hybrid materials.
Analysis of factors that influence the sensor location problem for freeway corridors
Authors: Li Haijian , Dong Honghui , Jia Limin , Ren Moyu , Li Shi
Published: September 2013

The use of traffic sensors to acquire real‐time traffic information for intelligent transportation systems is becoming increasingly common. It is a challenge to determine where these sensors should be located to maximize the benefit of their use. This paper aims to illuminate the interaction of the sensor location problem (SLP) and its influencing factors, and to reveal the influencing mechanisms between those factors and the optimal sensor numbers. Firstly, we sum up the factors that influence the SLP for freeway corridors in detail and present the mathematical formulation of each factor. Then, given the parameters, which are derived from those influencing factors, the maximum integration value model (MIVM) and simplified MIVM are proposed for addressing the SLP. Finally, a real world case study, in which the simplified MIVM is used, is presented to illustrate how these factors influence the optimal sensor numbers and the maximum integration value, and also leads to the typical influencing patterns of those factors for freeway corridors. The results of the case study also demonstrate the effectiveness of the model and problem solving scheme. What is more, the suggestions for using the findings hereof in practical applications are put forward. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Untersuchungen zum Wärmetransportverhalten oberflächennaher durchströmter Böden
Authors: Arslan Ulvi , Huber Heiko
Published: September 2013

Durch experimentelle Untersuchungen in einem hierzu entwickelten Wärmeleitungs‐ und Wärmeströmungslaborversuchsstand wurde eine umfangreiche Datenbasis zu grundwasserdurchströmten geothermischen Systemen geschaffen. Mithilfe von experimentellen Felduntersuchungen konnte die Übertragbarkeit der Datenbasis auf geothermische Systeme in‐situ festgestellt werden. Durch ein anhand der experimentellen Daten kalibriertes und validiertes numerisches Modell konnte die geschaffene Datenbasis mit numerischen Untersuchungen über die experimentellen Untersuchungsgrenzen erweitert werden. Anhand der Datenbasis wurden Empfehlungen zur Berechnungsgrundlage für die Auslegung geothermischer Systeme unter Berücksichtigung der Filtergeschwindigkeit des Grundwassers entwickelt. Die Zunahme der effektiven Wärmeleitfähigkeit von Sanden in Abhängigkeit der Filtergeschwindigkeit des Grundwassers wurde ergänzend zu aktuellen Empfehlungen [1] für schwach wasserführende, wasserführende und stark wasserführende Sande erfasst.

Investigation of the heat transport mechanisms of shallow soils under groundwater flow

An extensive database of groundwater influenced geothermal systems was developed by experimental investigation with a constructed conduction and convection laboratory device. The transferability of the database to geothermal systems in‐situ was proofed via experimental investigation in geothermal field tests. By the means of a numerical model, which was calibrated and validated with the experimental database, an extension of the experimental investigation range was reached. With help of the database recommendations for the dimensioning of groundwater influenced geothermal systems were given. The increase of the effective thermal conductivity of sands due to groundwater flow was determined for weakly aquiferous, aquiferous and strongly aquiferous sands in addition to [1].
Nachprüfung von Dauerankern nach DIN 4125:1990 und EC 7‐1
Authors: Schäfer René , Spang Christian , Timmermann Vera
Published: September 2013

Zur Sicherung eines Brückenwiderlagers einer Straßenbrücke über das Aggertal wurden Ende der 1970er‐Jahre 14 Daueranker als Rückverankerung eingebaut. Im Zuge der Bauwerksüberprüfung hat sich gezeigt, dass eine von zwei installierten Kraftmessdosen zur Überprüfung der Ankerkräfte keinen Messwert anzeigte, woraufhin eine Nachprüfung aller Daueranker mittels Abhebeversuch veranlasst wurde. Die Nachprüfung ergab, dass eine Lastumlagerung von den inneren auf die beiden äußeren Anker stattgefunden hat, wodurch für die äußeren Anker die geforderten Sicherheiten der äußeren und inneren Tragfähigkeit unterschritten werden. Die Ergebnisse gaben Anlass, einen Vergleich der Ankernachweise nach alter und neuer Normung durchzuführen. Hierbei zeigte sich, dass aufgrund der differenzierten Berücksichtigung von Teilsicherheiten für ständige und veränderliche Einwirkungen im vorliegenden Fall eine günstigere Nachweisführung nach Teilsicherheitskonzept möglich ist. Der Vergleich der beiden Nachweisformen verdeutlicht jedoch, dass die Nachprüfung von Dauerankern, welche nach dem Globalsicherheitskonzept bemessen wurden, offene Fragen hinsichtlich der Anwendung des Teilsicherheitskonzepts aufwirft.

Inspection of grouted anchors according to DIN 4125:1990 and EC 7‐1

For a structural support of a counter bearing of a roadway bridge across the Agger‐valley, 14 permanent grouted anchors were installed at the end of the 1970s. In the course of the last bridge inspection it was found, that one of the two installed load cells measuring the anchors forces did not show any data. As a consequence, reloading measurements of the anchors were initialized in order to determine the actual forces of all anchors. The results of the measurement show, that a load transfer from the inner to the outer anchors had taken place leading to lower anchor forces in the inner area and greater anchor forces at the boundary in comparison to the calculated pre‐stressing force. Accordingly, the two outer anchors are close to the ultimate limit state. The results of the reloading measurements are evaluated with reference to the global safety concept according to DIN 4125:1990 and the partial safety concept according to EC 7‐1. It can be shown, that the distinguished approach of the safety factors for the loadings may be advantageous for the design of the anchors. However, the example shows, that questions remain concerning the inspection of permanent grouted anchors, which
Environmental sustainability of advanced biofuels
Authors: Davis Sarah C. , Kucharik Christopher J. , Fazio Simone , Monti Andrea
Published: September 2013

Economic and policy incentives for biofuel development differ in the USA and the EU, but indicators of environmental sustainability that have emerged from recent scientific literature transcend political boundaries. We classified these indicators according to six dimensions of environmental sustainability that have been previously identified, providing a description of each, and relating them to proposed international standards for advanced biofuels. Advanced biofuel development can be a step toward environmentally sustainable energy if optimal standards for feedstock selection, management, production, and fuel conversion are explicitly targeted. Tools for assessing environmental sustainability exist, but have not yet been put to task in a standardized way for advanced biofuels. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Feeling the Numbers: On the Interplay Between Risk, Affect, and Numeracy
Authors: Petrova Dafina G. , van der Pligt Joop , Garcia‐Retamero Rocio
Published: September 2013

People overweigh small and underweigh large risks, resulting in probability weighting functions with an inverted S‐shape. This bias is stronger for affect‐rich outcomes: For two outcomes of the same monetary value, people are less sensitive to probability variation for affect‐rich than for affect‐poor outcomes (e.g., winning a $100 voucher toward a romantic dinner versus an electricity bill). In the current research, we investigated the interactive influence of affect and cognitive skills on probability weighting. Participants decided about buying insurance against the loss of an object, given various probabilities of loss. The description of the object was neutral, affect‐rich, or affect‐rich followed by an affective reappraisal task. The reappraisal task consisted of thinking about effective coping strategies and possible positive consequences of the loss. We also investigated the effect of numeracy on probability weighting. In particular, we investigated whether people have different affective responses to risks depending on their numerical abilities. Participants showed more overweighting of small probabilities for an affect‐rich than for a neutral outcome. This effect was mediated by fear. When participants were given the opportunity to reappraise the loss of the affect‐rich object, the effect disappeared. After reappraisal, participants' decisions were influenced by both fear and hope and were more in line with expectations based on normative models. The latter applied in particular to participants who had higher numeracy; they showed more emotional sensitivity to risks and assigned weights closer to linearity. Implications for the role of emotions and numeracy in risk communication are discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling travel impedance to medical care for children with birth defects using Geographic Information Systems
Authors: Delmelle Eric M. , Cassell Cynthia H. , Dony Coline , Radcliff Elizabeth , Tanner Jean Paul , Siffel Csaba , Kirby Russell S.
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND

Children with birth defects may face significant geographic barriers accessing medical care and specialized services. Using a Geographic Information Systems–based approach, one‐way travel time and distance to access medical care for children born with spina bifida was estimated.

METHODS

Using 2007 road information from the Florida Department of Transportation, we built a topological network of Florida roads. Live‐born Florida infants with spina bifida during 1998 to 2007 were identified by the Florida Birth Defects Registry and linked to hospital discharge records. Maternal residence at delivery and hospitalization locations were identified during the first year of life.

RESULTS

Of 668 infants with spina bifida, 8.1% (n = 54) could not be linked to inpatient data, resulting in 614 infants. Of those 614 infants, 99.7% (n = 612) of the maternal residential addresses at delivery were successfully geocoded. Infants with spina bifida living in rural areas in Florida experienced travel times almost twice as high compared with those living in urban areas. When aggregated at county levels, one‐way network travel times exhibited statistically significant spatial autocorrelation, indicating that families living in some clusters of counties experienced substantially greater travel times compared with families living in other areas of Florida.

CONCLUSION

This analysis demonstrates the usefulness of linking birth defects registry and hospital discharge data to examine geographic differences in access to medical care. Geographic Information Systems methods are important in evaluating accessibility and geographic barriers to care and could be used among children with special health care needs, including children with birth defects.Birth Defects Research (Part A) 97:673–684, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of esophageal defects in the crouzon mouse model
Authors: Dab Sandeep , Sokhi Ramanpreet , Lee Jye‐Chang , Sessle Barry J. , Aubin Jane E. , Gong Siew‐Ging
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND

Mutations in Fibroblastic Growth Factor Receptors (FGFR) have been associated with human craniosynostotic birth defects like Crouzon syndrome. Several anecdotes and case reports have indicated higher incidence of gastrointestinal tract disorders in FGFR‐associated craniosynostotic birth defects. Our objective was to characterize esophageal defects in a mouse model of human Crouzon syndrome, with a mutation in codon 290 of FGFR2.

METHODS

Dissected esophagi of Fgfr2W290R postnatal heterozygous (HET) and wild‐type mice were analyzed by histological staining, immunohistochemically with cell proliferation marker, and functionally by strain gauge measures of electrically evoked contractile force.

RESULTS

The esophagi of HETs were noticeably smaller but with wider lumen than those of wild‐type littermates. The HET esophagi showed a decrease in proliferation and an increase in expression of Sonic Hedgehog as compared to wild‐type esophagi. Histological investigations revealed reduced amounts and disorganization of collagen in muscle layers. Functional analysis revealed altered contractile properties in HET with reduced peak amplitude and prolonged duration of evoked contractile force response and lower stimulation threshold.

CONCLUSION

The defects observed in the esophagus of the mutant may explain some of the clinical symptoms observed in humans, for example, recurrent vomiting, gastroesophageal reflux, and esophageal strictures. Taken together, our results provide evidence for the importance of Fibroblastic Growth Factor signaling in the growth and patterning of the esophagus, providing a possible scientific basis for the gastrointestinal tract clinical findings in craniosynostotic patients. Furthermore, the findings also provide a sound scientific rationale for any changes in the clinical management of gastrointestinal tract problems in patients with craniosynostotic defects. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 97:578–586, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Monitoringbasierte Lebenszeitabschätzung von Betonstrukturen
Authors: Urban Susanne , Wagner Richard , Strauss Alfred , Reiterer Michael , Dehlinger Christian , Bergmeister Konrad
Published: September 2013

Um Bauwerke bis zu ihrem wirklichen Lebensende zu nutzen, ist es von großer Bedeutung, den aktuellen Grad der Schädigung einer Struktur bestimmen zu können. Mithilfe der zurzeit gültigen Nachweis‐ und Bemessungskonzepte (z.B. CEB‐FIP Model Code 2010) ist dies nicht möglich. Ein gangbarer Weg, den Schädigungsgrad einer Betonstruktur vor Ort zu bestimmen, ist der Einsatz von zerstörungsfreien Prüfmethoden (Monitoring). Dieser Bereich ist allerdings noch nicht zur Gänze erforscht. Das konstante Monitoring von der Entstehung eines Bauwerks bis hin zu dessen Lebensende wird als eine vielversprechende Möglichkeit der Lebenszeitabschätzung gesehen. In diesem Beitrag werden Ermüdungsversuche an Betonprüfkörpern, begleitet mit konstantem Monitoring durch Ultraschall‐ und Körperschall‐Sensoren, näher betrachtet und ein möglicher Weg zur Bestimmung des Schädigungsgrades und der Lebenszeitabschätzung aufgezeigt.

Monitoring based lifetime assessment of concrete structures – Research Project MOSES

In order to use structures up to their real end of lifetime it is of great importance to know the degree of damage of the structure. By using the actual Codes and Specifications (e.g. CEB‐FIP Model Code 2010) it is not possible to define the real degree of deterioration. A practicable way of determining the degree on‐site is the employment of non‐destructive testing methods (monitoring). This field until now is not finally explored. The constant monitoring from the erection of a structure up to the end of its lifetime is seen as a very promising possibility to assess the residual lifetime. In this article fatigue tests on concrete specimens, accompanied with ultrasonic and acoustic emission measurements will be investigated closer and a possible way for the determination of the degree of damage and lifetime assessment will be proposed.
Studie zur Potentialfeldmessung an 40 Jahre alten Stahlbetonbauteilen vom Olympiastadion München
Authors: Keßler Sylvia , Gehlen Christoph
Published: September 2013

Die Detektion von korrodierenden Bereichen in Stahlbetonbauwerken ist ein wesentlicher Schritt für die Zustandserfassung und die Planung von Instandsetzungsmaßnamen. Als etabliertes Messverfahren steht dafür die Potentialfeldmessung zur Verfügung. Obwohl dieses Verfahren schon seit Jahren eingesetzt wird und in verschiedenen Richtlinien und Merkblättern Eingang gefunden hat, gibt es immer noch offene Fragen zur Oberflächenvorbehandlung, zum geeigneten Messzeitpunkt bei frei bewitterten Bauteilen und zum optimalen Messraster. Diese Fragen werden anhand von Labormessungen und praxisnahen Feldmessungen qualitativ untersucht. Für die praxisnahen Feldmessungen wurden Potentialfelder an 40 Jahre alten, natürlich korrodierten Stahlbetonrandbalken vom Olympiastadion in München bei unterschiedlichen Oberflächenvorbehandlungen, nach verschiedenen Wetterszenarien und Messrastervariationen ausgewertet.

Study of potential mapping at 40 year old reinforced elements from the Olympic stadium in Munich – Influence of concrete resistivity and grid size

An essential part of the inspection and repair planning of reinforced concrete structures is the detection of corroding areas. Potential mapping is a widely used and established procedure to do this. But there are still some open questions concerning this measurement procedure. Which is the proper pre‐wetting condition or which is the best time to measure when the structural element is exposed to weather conditions? Which is the optimal grid size? Investigations are made with a laboratory and practical test set up. For the practical test set up 40 year old, naturally corroded reinforced segments from the Olympic stadium in Munich are available and potential measurements under different condition were analyzed qualitatively.
Nachrechnung der Donaubrücke Ingolstadt (BAB A9) bis zur Stufe 4 der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie
Authors: Müller Andreas , Jähring Andreas , Goj Karl , Fischer Oliver
Published: September 2013

Im Mai 2011 hat das Bundesministerium für Verkehr, Bau und Stadtentwicklung (BMVBS) die “Richtlinie für die Nachrechnung von Straßenbrücken im Bestand” (Nachrechnungsrichtlinie) bekannt gegeben. Unmittelbar darauf wurden in Bayern im Rahmen einer Pilotprojektphase verschiedene Straßenbrücken unter Zugrundelegung dieser Richtlinie nachgerechnet – darunter auch die Donaubrücke bei Ingolstadt im Zuge der BAB A9. Bei der Nachrechnung dieser 1976 errichteten Spannbetonbrücke mit Hohlkastenquerschnitt zeigten sich nach Stufe 1 und auch noch nach Stufe 2 der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie erhebliche rechnerische Defizite vor allem im Bereich des Anschlusses der Druckgurte in den Stützbereichen an die Stege. Durch die kombinierte Anwendung von physikalisch nichtlinearen Rechenverfahren und ergänzenden Bauwerksuntersuchungen konnten in Stufe 4 der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie letztlich alle Nachweise ohne Einschränkungen erbracht und daher auf verkehrsbeschränkende oder Verstärkungsmaßnahmen verzichtet werden. Im Rahmen des Beitrags werden die Vorgehensweise und die wesentlichen Ergebnisse der durchgeführten Berechnungen zusammengefasst. Abschließend werden die an der Donaubrücke Ingolstadt gewonnenen Erkenntnisse mit Ergebnissen eines aktuellen Forschungsvorhabens verglichen, das sich mit der systematischen Analyse von bisher durchgeführten Nachrechnungen von Massivbrücken befasst.

Assessment and re‐analysis of the BAB A9 Danube bridge Ingolstadt

In May 2011 the new guideline “Nachrechnungsrichtlinie” (standard for bridge re‐analysis and assessment) was recommended for application by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development. Since then several pilot projects have been launched in Bavaria aiming on the re‐analysis of different types of major road bridges based on the assessment guideline. One of these bridges is the BAB A9 Danube PC box girder bridge next to Ingolstadt. Upon completion of the re‐analyses according to the so‐called levels 1 and 2 of the guideline there were still severe calculatory deficits particularly regarding the connection zones of the compression flanges and webs close to the supports. By using a 3D FE model and physically non‐linear analysis methods combined with in‐situ investigations (i.e. level 4 of the guideline) it was finally possible to fulfill all design criteria and hence to avoid both traffic restrictions as well as strengthening measures. The present paper describes the general assessment approach and highlights important findings and results of the non‐linear analyses. Finally, the Danube Bridge results are discussed with the background of a current research project focusing on a systematic evaluation of available re‐analyses of RC/PC bridges performed on the basis of the new assessment guideline.
Development and characterization of a novel bioactive polymer with antibacterial and lysozyme‐like activity
Authors: Guascito Maria Rachele , Chirizzi Daniela , Malitesta Cosimino , Giotta Livia , Mastrogiacomo Disma , Valli Ludovico , Stabili Loredana
Published: September 2013

The development and characterization of a novel bioactive polymer based on the immobilization of glucose oxidase enzyme (GOx) in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film showing antibacterial activity is presented. The PVA‐GOx composite material was extensively characterized by UV‐vis, X‐ray Photoelectron (XPS) spectroscopy and by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to verify the preservation of enzyme structural integrity and activity. The antimicrobial activity of this composite material against Escherichia coli and Vibrio alginolyticus was assessed. Furthermore the lysozyme‐like activity of PVA‐GOx was highlighted by a standard assay on Petri dishes employing Micrococcus lysodeikticus cell walls. The findings from this study have implications for future investigations related to the employment of PVA‐GOx system as a composite material of pharmaceutical and technological interest. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 101: 461–470, 2014.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between diabetes mellitus and incidence and mortality in breast and colorectal cancer
Authors: De Bruijn K M J , Arends L R , Hansen B E , Leeflang S , Ruiter R , van Eijck C H J
Published: September 2013

Background

Increasing evidence suggests that diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with increased cancer incidence and mortality. Several mechanisms involved in diabetes, such as promotion of cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis, may foster carcinogenesis. This study investigated the association between DM and cancer incidence and cancer-specific mortality in patients with breast and colorectal carcinoma.

Methods

A meta-analysis of controlled trials, prospective cohort studies and pooled cohort studies published after 2007 was conducted. Embase, PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched. Summary hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were performed to adjust for confounders, mode of DM assessment and follow-up time.

Results

Twenty studies were included to investigate the association between DM and breast and colorectal cancer incidence and cancer-specific mortality. The studies predominantly comprised patients with type II DM. The overall HR for breast cancer incidence was 1·23 (95 per cent confidence interval 1·12 to 1·34) and that for colorectal cancer was 1·26 (1·14 to 1·40) in patients with DM compared with those without diabetes. The overall HR was 1·38 (1·20 to 1·58) for breast cancer- and 1·30 (1·15 to 1·47) for colorectal cancer-specific mortality in patients with DM compared with those without diabetes.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis indicated that DM is a risk factor for breast and colorectal cancer, and for cancer-specific mortality.
Prospective study of pain, quality of life and the economic impact of open inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Palmqvist E , Larsson K , Anell A , Hjalmarsson C
Published: September 2013

Background

There are variations in quality of life (QoL) and reported risk of chronic pain after inguinal hernia repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the improvement in pain and QoL after open inguinal hernia repair, and the economic impact.

Methods

Patients undergoing open mesh repair of a primary unilateral inguinal hernia were stratified depending on preoperative levels of symptoms and pain. Short Form 36 (SF-36®) and EQ-5D™ questionnaires were filled in before, and at 3 and 12 months after surgery. EQ-5D™ data, together with information on the mean value of a quality-adjusted life-year and the societal cost of hernia repair, were used to calculate the monetary value of QoL gained and the mean return on investment.

Results

Of 225 patients who began the study, 184 completed follow-up at 12 months. Some 77·2 per cent reported improvement in pain and 5·4 per cent reported increased pain after surgery. Significant improvement in SF-36® scores, pain scores measured on a visual analogue scale (VAS), and symptoms were found in the majority of patients, even those with mild symptoms before surgery. For the whole group, the bodily pain score increased from 56·4 before surgery to 82·6 at 12 months after hernia repair (P < 0·050), and the VAS score decreased from a median of 4 to 0 (P < 0·050). The return on investment was positive for all groups of patients, including those with mild symptoms.

Conclusion

QoL improves after open inguinal hernia repair, with a good return on investment independent of symptom severity.
Identification and characterization of human UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases responsible for the in vitro glucuronidation of bergenin
Authors: Song Haojing , Wang Jin , Zhang Rui , Liu Xiaoyan , Yuan Guiyan , Wei Chunmin , Wang Benjie , Guo Ruichen
Published: September 2013

Glucuronidation plays critical role in the elimination of bergenin; however the metabolic mechanism of UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) in the process remains to be investigated. In this study, the kinetics of bergenin glucuronidation by pooled human liver microsomes (HLMs) and 12 recombinat UGT isozymes were investigated. The glucuronidation of bergenin can be shown in HLMs with a Km value of 231.62 ± 14.08 µm and a Vmax value of 2.17 ± 0.21 nmol/min/(mg protein). Among the 12 human UGTs investigated, UGT1A1 was identified as the major isoform catalyzing the glucuronidation of bergenin [Km value of 200.37 ± 26.73 µm and Vmax value of 1.88 ± 0.26 nmol/min/(mg protein)]. The bergenin glucuronosyltransferase activities in HLMs and UGT1A1 were inhibited by phenylbutazone, estradiol and bilirubin. The results demonstrate that bergenin glucuronidation in HLMs is specifically catalyzed by UGT1A1. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bony landmarks of the medial orbital wall: An anatomical study of ethmoidal foramina
Authors: Piagkou Maria , Skotsimara Georgia , Dalaka Aspasia , Kanioura Eftychia , Korentzelou Vasiliki , Skotsimara Antonia , Piagkos Giannoulis , Johnson Elizabeth O
Published: September 2013

The study determines the distribution patterns of ethmoidal foramina (EF) evaluate how they are affected by gender or bilateral asymmetry, and highlights the surgical implications on the anatomical landmarks of the orbit. Two hundred and forty‐nine dry orbits were assessed. The number and pattern of EF were determined and distances between the anterior lacrimal crest (ALC), anterior (AEF) middle (MEF), posterior (PEF) ethmoidal foramina and between PEF and the optic canal (OC) were measured. The patterns of EF were classified as type I (single foramen) in 4 orbits (1.6%), type II (double foramina) in 152 (61%), type III (triple foramina) in 71 (28.5%), and type IV (multiple foramina) in 22 orbits (16.4%). Two orbits were found with five EF and a single orbit with six EF. A significant gender difference was observed for ALC‐AEF distance (P ≤ 0.03), in males 23.53 ± 2.86 (20.67–26.39) versus females 22.51 ± 3.72 (18.79–26.23) mm. Bilateral asymmetry was observed for ALC‐AEF distance (P ≤ 0.01). The distances ALC‐AEF and ALC‐PEF varied significantly according to EF classification (P ≤ 0.03 and P ≤ 0.02). The navigation ratio from ALC‐AEF, AEF‐PEF, and PEF‐OC, in Greek population was “23‐10‐4 mm”. A variation in the number of EF was found, ranging from 1 to 6, with the first report of sextuple EF. Although measures were generally consistent across genders and side, there are significant differences across ethnicities. These findings suggest that surgeons must consider population differences in determining the anatomical landmarks and navigation points of the orbit. Clin. Anat. 570–577, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Current status of identification of victims of the National Socialist regime whose bodies were used for anatomical purposes
Authors: Hildebrandt Sabine
Published: September 2013

Research on the history of anatomy in the Third Reich has often focused on anatomists who collaborated with the National Socialist (NS) regime. Only recently has attention shifted to investigations of the victims, of which there are two groups: anatomists whose careers were disrupted by NS policies, and victims of the NS regime whose bodies were used for anatomical purposes. No systematic approach has yet been undertaken toward the identification of all the different groups of victims and the individuals' fates. This overview of currently available data on NS victims whose bodies were used for anatomical purposes reveals that an estimated total number of all bodies delivered to departments of anatomy lies at more than 40,000, and the so far documented number of executed persons among them at a minimum of 3,749. The traditional sources of body procurement and their significant changes in character during the NS period can be traced. Postwar attempts on finding the fate and identity of bodies of NS victims in anatomy can be divided into three phases. Most investigations focused on the removal of remaining “material” from NS victims from the anatomical collections, while identification and remembrance of individual victims was not a priority. So far, about 500 NS victims' names and biographies have been at least partially identified. Existing memorials rarely name individuals. New approaches to the identification of victims and the potential of a databank for these victims' biographies as an appropriate manner of remembrance are examined in this study. Clin. Anat. 514–536, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Second‐Generation Amino Acid Furanoside Based Ligands from D‐Glucose for the Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of Ketones
Authors: Coll Mercedes , Pàmies Oscar , Adolfsson Hans , Diéguez Montserrat
Published: September 2013

A novel series of modular amino acid thioamide ligands functionalized with carbohydrates were introduced and employed in the rhodium‐catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) of aryl alkyl ketones, including the less‐studied heteroaromatic ketones. The ligands are based on amino acid hydroxyamides (pseudodipeptides), which are the most successful ligands previously used in asymmetric hydrogen transfer reactions. High enantioselectivities [up to 99 % enantiomeric excess (ee)] were achieved in the ATH of a wide range of aryl alkyl ketones by using catalysts generated in situ from [RhCl2Cp*]2 (Cp*=C5Me5) and thioamide ligands comprising a 3‐benzyl glucofuranoside backbone and a bulky isopropyl group in the α‐amino acid moiety. Interestingly, both enantiomers of the alcohol products can readily be obtained with high enantioselectivity by simply changing the absolute configuration of the α‐amino acid. The good performance can be extended to a very challenging class of industrially interesting heteroaromatic ketones (up to 99 % ee).
Unusual Stabilization of an Intermediate Spin State of Iron upon the Axial Phenoxide Coordination of a Diiron(III)–Bisporphyrin: Effect of Heme–Heme Interactions
Authors: Bhowmik Susovan , Dey Soumyajit , Sahoo Dipankar , Rath Sankar Prasad
Published: September 2013

The binding of a series of substituted phenols as axial ligands onto a diiron(III)bisporphyrin framework have been investigated. Spectroscopic characterization revealed high‐spin states of the iron centers in all of the phenolate complexes, with one exception in the 2,4,6‐trinitrophenolate complex of diiron(III)bisporphyrin, which only stabilized the pure intermediate‐spin (S=3/2) state of the iron centers. The average FeN (porphyrin) and FeO (phenol) distances that were observed with the 2,4,6‐trinitrophenolate complex were 1.972(3) Å and 2.000(2) Å, respectively, which are the shortest and longest distances reported so far for any FeIIIporphyrin with phenoxide coordination. The alternating shift pattern, which shows opposite signs of the chemical shifts for the meta versus ortho/para protons, is attributed to negative and positive spin densities on the phenolate carbon atoms, respectively, and is indicative of π‐spin delocalization onto the bound phenolate. Electrochemical data reveals that the E1/2 value for the FeIII/FeII couple is positively shifted with increasing acidity of the phenol. However, a plot of the E1/2 values for the FeIII/FeII couple versus the pKa values of the phenols shows a linear relationship for all of the complexes, except for the 2,4,6‐trinitrophenolate complex. The large deviation from linearity is probably due to the change of spin for the complex. Although 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol is the weakest axial ligand in the series, its similar binding with the corresponding FeIIImonoporphyrin only results in stabilization of the high‐spin state. The porphyrin macrocycle in the 2,4,6‐trinitrophenolate complex of diiron(III)bisporphyrin is the most distorted, whilst the “ruffling” deformation affects the energy levels of the iron d orbitals. The larger size and weaker binding of 2,4,6‐trinitrophenol, along with hemeheme interactions in the diiron(III)bisporphyrin, are responsible for the larger ring deformations and eventual stabilization of the pure intermediate‐spin states of the iron centers in the complex.
Naphthyridines as Novel BET Family Bromodomain Inhibitors
Authors: Mirguet Olivier , Lamotte Yann , Chung Chun‐wa , Bamborough Paul , Delannée Delphine , Bouillot Anne , Gellibert Françoise , Krysa Gael , Lewis Antonia , Witherington Jason , Huet Pascal , Dudit Yann , Trottet Lionel , Nicodeme Edwige
Published: September 2013

Bromodomains (BRDs) are small protein domains found in a variety of proteins that recognize and bind to acetylated histone tails. This binding affects chromatin structure and facilitates the localisation of transcriptional complexes to specific genes, thereby regulating epigenetically controlled processes including gene transcription and mRNA elongation. Inhibitors of the bromodomain and extra‐terminal (BET) proteins BRD2–4 and T, which prevent bromodomain binding to acetyl‐modified histone tails, have shown therapeutic promise in several diseases. We report here the discovery of 1,5‐naphthyridine derivatives as potent inhibitors of the BET bromodomain family with good cell activity and oral pharmacokinetic parameters. X‐ray crystal structures of naphthyridine isomers have been solved and quantum mechanical calculations have been used to explain the higher affinity of the 1,5‐isomer over the others. The best compounds were progressed in a mouse model of inflammation and exhibited dose‐dependent anti‐inflammatory pharmacology.
Bortezomib‐containing induction regimens in transplant‐eligible myeloma patients
Authors: Nooka Ajay K. , Kaufman Jonathan L. , Behera Madhusmita , Langston Amelia , Waller Edmund K. , Flowers Christopher R. , Gleason Charise , Boise Lawrence H. , Lonial Sagar
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND

The objective of this meta‐analysis in patients with myeloma was to test the hypothesis that the addition of bortezomib to induction therapy not only improves the depth of response but also improves post‐transplant progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) outcomes.

METHODS

Phase 3 trials that randomized newly diagnosed, transplant‐eligible patients with myeloma to receive either a bortezomib‐containing induction regimen (BCIR) or a nonbortezomib‐containing induction regimen (NBCIR) were identified. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were adapted for data synthesis, and comprehensive meta‐analysis software was used to report pooled data as hazard ratios or odds ratios under a random‐effects model.

RESULTS

Four published phase 3 trials that included 2169 patients were analyzed. The postinduction and post‐transplant pooled odds ratio for achieving a complete response/near complete response or a very good partial response or better and the overall response rate were higher with BCIR. The pooled hazard ratios for 3‐year PFS and OS were 0.71 (95% confidence interval, 0.60‐0.83; P < .00,001) and 0.79 (95% confidence interval, 0.66‐0.96; P = .014), respectively, favoring BCIR. The odds of developing selected grade ≥3 toxicities (peripheral neuropathy and varicella‐zoster virus reactivation) also were higher with BCIR.

CONCLUSIONS

The current meta‐analysis demonstrated that BCIR results in an improved depth of response, which translates into improved post‐transplant PFS and OS outcomes despite a higher incidence of toxicity. This analysis supports the concept that the choice of induction regimen can influence post‐transplant outcomes such as PFS and OS. Cancer 2013;119:4119–4128. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Suggestions from adolescents, young adults, and parents for improving informed consent in phase 1 pediatric oncology trials
Authors: Baker Justin N. , Leek Angela C. , Salas Halle Showalter , Drotar Dennis , Noll Robert , Rheingold Susan R. , Kodish Eric D.
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND

Informed consent for a pediatric oncology phase 1 trial is a delicate process, and is made more complex by the difficulty of the information and the requirement for parental consent, and patient assent when applicable. This analysis identifies suggestions for improving the informed consent process received from parents and adolescent and young adult patients (aged 14 years‐21 years) who had the option of participating in a phase 1 pediatric oncology trial.

METHODS

A total of 57 parents and 20 patients completed interviews as part of a multisite, prospective, descriptive study. These transcribed interviews were studied using established content analysis methods.

RESULTS

Parent and patient responses contained 220 suggestions and 54 suggestions, respectively. A total of 21 unique suggestions for improvement emerged in 3 main themes: 1) provision of more information; 2) structure and presentation of the informed consent process, and 3) suggestions for physicians conducting the process. Common suggestions included providing more specific information about the trial, allowing more time for decision‐making, and using different methods to deliver information.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants involved in the informed consent process for a phase 1 trial provided specific recommendations to research teams to enhance the process. Physician/investigators should be informed of these recommendations and develop and test interventions incorporating them. Cancer 2013;119:4154–4161. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Standards‐based metadata management for molecular simulations
Authors: Grunzke Richard , Breuers Sebastian , Gesing Sandra , Herres‐Pawlis Sonja , Kruse Martin , Blunk Dirk , de la Garza Luis , Packschies Lars , Schäfer Patrick , Schärfe Charlotta , Schlemmer Tobias , Steinke Thomas , Schuller Bernd , Müller‐Pfefferkorn Ralph , Jäkel René , Nagel Wolfgang E. , Atkinson Malcolm , Krüger Jens
Published: September 2013

State‐of‐the‐art research in a variety of natural sciences depends heavily on methods of computational chemistry, for example, the calculation of the properties of materials, proteins, catalysts, and drugs. Applications providing such methods require a lot of expertise to handle their complexity and the usage of high‐performance computing. The MoSGrid (molecular simulation grid) infrastructure relieves this burden from scientists by providing a science gateway, which eases access to and usage of computational chemistry applications. One of its cornerstones is the molecular simulations markup language (MSML), an extension of the chemical markup language. MSML abstracts all chemical as well as computational aspects of simulations. An application and its results can be described with common semantics. Using such application, independent descriptions users can easily switch between different applications or compare them. This paper introduces MSML, its integration into a science gateway, and its usage for molecular dynamics, quantum chemistry, and protein docking. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Designing a fine‐grained parallel differential evolution with Pareto tournaments for solving an optical networking problem
Authors: Rubio‐Largo Álvaro , Vega‐Rodríguez Miguel A. , González‐Álvarez David L.
Published: September 2013

The future of designing optical networks focuses on the wavelength division multiplexing technology. This technology divides the huge bandwidth of an optical fiber into different wavelengths, providing different available channels per link of optical fiber. However, when it is required to establish a set of demands, a problem comes up. This problem is known as routing and wavelength assignment problem. In this work, we have tackled the static routing and wavelength assignment problem by using multiobjective evolutionary computing. The algorithm applied is the differential evolution but modified with the Pareto tournaments concept for being adapted to the multiobjective context. By using OpenMP, an application programming interface that supports multiplatform shared memory multiprocessing programming, we have demonstrated that this algorithm is highly suitable to be parallelized. We have performed several experiments in multicore systems with two, four, and eight cores, obtaining 97.57% of mean efficiency. To ensure that our heuristic obtains relevant results, we have compared it with a parallel version of the standard fast nondominated sorting genetic algorithm. Finally, in order to show the goodness and effectiveness of the differential evolution with Pareto tournaments algorithm when dealing with this problem, we present diverse multiobjective comparisons with the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm and other approaches published in the literature. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Childhood interparental conflict and HPA axis activity in young adulthood: Examining nonlinear relations
Authors: Hagan Melissa J. , Roubinov Danielle S. , Purdom Marreiro Catherine L. , Luecken Linda J.
Published: September 2013

Relations between early adversity and the neuroendocrine stress response are most often tested in a linear framework. Findings from studies of nonlinear relations between early stress and reactivity in childhood are suggestive, but curvilinear associations between childhood family stress and stress reactivity at later developmental stages remain unexplored. The current study examined curvilinear relations between childhood interparental conflict (IPC) and cortisol reactivity in young adulthood. Participants (n = 91; Mean age = 18.7, SD = .97; 59% White, 25% Hispanic) reported on the frequency and intensity of childhood exposure to IPC and salivary cortisol was sampled before and after a challenging interpersonal role‐play task. Significant curvilinear relations were found such that higher total cortisol and cortisol reactivity during the task was observed among youth reporting lower and higher frequency of IPC, suggesting that moderate IPC exposure may be associated with lower cortisol activity at a later developmental stage. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 871–880, 2014.
Interpreting the results of the Semmes‐Weinstein monofilament test: accounting for false‐positive answers in the international consensus on the diabetic foot protocol by a new model
Authors: Slater Robert A. , Koren Shlomit , Ramot Yoram , Buchs Andreas , Rapoport Micha J.
Published: September 2013

Aims

The Semmes‐Weinstein monofilament is the most widely used test to diagnose the loss of protective sensation. The commonly used protocol of the International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot includes a ‘sham’ application that allows for false‐positive answers. We sought to study the heretofore unexamined significance of false‐positive answers.

Methods

Forty‐five patients with diabetes and a history of pedal ulceration (Group I) and 81 patients with diabetes but no history of ulceration (Group II) were studied. The three original sites of the International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot at the hallux, 1st metatarsal and 5th metatarsal areas were used. At each location, the test was performed three times: 2 actual and 1 “sham” applications. Scores were graded from 0 to 3 based upon correct responses. Determination of loss of protective sensation was performed with and without calculating a false‐positive answer as a minus 1 score.

Results

False‐positive responses were found in a significant percentage of patients with and without history of ulceration. Introducing false‐positive results as minus 1 into the test outcome significantly increased the number of patients diagnosed with loss of protective sensation in both groups.

Conclusions

False‐positive answers can significantly affect Semmes‐Weinstein monofilament test results and the diagnosis of LOPS. A model that accounts for false‐positive answers is offered. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.