bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A strategy for molecular diagnostics of Fanconi anemia in Brazilian patients
Authors: Pilonetto Daniela V. , Pereira Noemi F. , Bonfim Carmem M. S. , Ribeiro Lisandro L. , Bitencourt Marco A. , Kerkhoven Lianne , Floor Karijn , Ameziane Najim , Joenje Hans , Gille Johan J. P. , Pasquini Ricardo
Published: May 2017

Background

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a predominantly autosomal recessive disease with wide genetic heterogeneity resulting from mutations in several DNA repair pathway genes. To date, 21 genetic subtypes have been identified. We aimed to identify the FA genetic subtypes in the Brazilian population and to develop a strategy for molecular diagnosis applicable to routine clinical use.

Methods

We screened 255 patients from Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná for 11 common FA gene mutations. Further analysis by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) for FANCA and Sanger sequencing of all coding exons of FANCA, ‐C, and –G was performed in cases who harbored a single gene mutation.

Results

We identified biallelic mutations in 128/255 patients (50.2%): 89, 11, and 28 carried FANCA, FANCC, and FANCG mutations, respectively. Of these, 71 harbored homozygous mutations, whereas 57 had compound heterozygous mutations. In 4/57 heterozygous patients, both mutations were identified by the initial screening, in 51/57 additional analyses was required for classification, and in 2/57 the second mutation remained unidentified. We found 52 different mutations of which 22 were novel.

Conclusion

The proposed method allowed genetic subtyping of 126/255 (49.4%) patients at a significantly reduced time and cost, which makes molecular diagnosis of FA Brazilian patients feasible.
Quantitative single breath‐hold renal arterial spin labeling imaging at 7T
Authors: Li Xiufeng , Auerbach Edward J. , Van de Moortele Pierre‐Francois , Ugurbil Kamil , Metzger Gregory J.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of quantitative single breath‐hold renal arterial spin labeling (ASL) imaging at 7T.

Methods

A single‐shot fast spin echo FAIR (flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery) method was used to perform two studies. First, a multi‐delay perfusion study was performed to estimate the spin labeling temporal bolus width achievable with a local transceiver array coil at 7T. Second, with a conservatively defined bolus width, a quantitative perfusion study was performed using the single subtraction approach. To address issues of
inhomogeneity/efficiency and excessive short‐term specific absorption rates, various strategies were used, such as dynamic radiofrequency shimming and optimization.

Results

A conservative temporal bolus width of 600 ms determined from the multi‐delay study was applied for single‐subtraction imaging to measure the renal blood flow in the cortex and medulla: 303 ± 31.8 and 91.3 ± 15.2 (mL/100 g/min), respectively. The estimated spatial and temporal signal‐to‐noise ratios of renal perfusion measurements were 3.8 ± 0.7 and 2.4 ± 0.6 for the cortex, and 2.2 ± 0.6 and 1.4 ± 0.2 for the medulla.

Conclusion

With proper management of field strength specific challenges, quantitative renal ASL imaging can be achieved at 7T within a single breath‐hold. Magn Reson Med 79:815–825, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Patterns of PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2 expression in pediatric solid tumors
Authors: Pinto Navin , Park Julie R. , Murphy Erin , Yearley Jennifer , McClanahan Terri , Annamalai Lakshmanan , Hawkins Douglas S. , Rudzinski Erin R.
Published: May 2017

Background

Significant antitumor effects have been observed in a variety of malignancies via blockade of immune checkpoints. Interaction of programmed death 1 (PD‐1) with its ligands PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 suppresses T‐cell function and restricts immune‐mediated tumor killing. We examined expression of these proteins in children with solid tumors, as expression may serve as biomarkers of response to this class of drugs.

Methods

Sections cut from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks were processed and evaluated for PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) as well as by mRNA expression. A semiquantitative 0–5 IHC scoring system (0 = negative to 5 = very high) was applied, with scores incorporating combined prevalence of tumor cell and nontumor cell labeling. Expression profiling was performed using the NanoString nCounter™ system. Data analysis was performed using quantile normalization. All quantile‐normalized data underwent subsequent log10 transformation.

Results

One hundred twenty‐four FFPE blocks were included in the analysis. PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2 IHC were not evaluable in 8, 0, and 12 blocks, respectively. PD‐1, PDL‐1, and PDL‐2 expression was negative to moderate by both IHC (range 0–3) and mRNA expression (range 0–2.62). Correlation between IHC score and mRNA expression was poor for all three tested proteins (PD‐1, r2 = 0.06; PDL‐1, r2 = 0.007; and PDL‐2, r2 = 0.15).

Conclusions

Expression of PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2 is low in pediatric solid tumors. At low levels of expression, IHC score and mRNA expression correlate poorly. Current and planned clinical trials will determine whether this low level of expression predicts limited response to immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Barriers and facilitators to the implementation of mentalization‐based treatment (MBT) for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Bales Dawn L. , Verheul Roel , Hutsebaut Joost
Published: May 2017

There are several evidence‐based treatments for borderline personality disorder, but very little is known about the success or failure of implementation in daily practice. This study aims to investigate the success or failure of newly started mentalization‐based treatment programs, and to explore the barriers and facilitators. The implementation trajectories of seven different mentalization‐based treatment programs in six mental health clinics in the Netherlands were included in a multiple case study combining a qualitative and quantitative design. Semi‐structured interview data were collected from several stakeholders of each program. Narrative reconstructions of each interview were assessed by 12 independent experts. Results showed that several programs struggled to implement their program successfully, leading to discontinuation in three programs. According to the experts, particularly elements at the organizational level (i.e. organizational support) and team level (i.e. leadership) contributed to implementation outcome. These findings have important implications for the translation of guidelines and research findings in daily practice. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry quantification of trastuzumab in human serum by selective monitoring of a specific peptide marker from the antibody complementarity‐determining regions
Authors: Russo R. , Rega C. , Caporale A. , Tonon G. , Scaramuzza S. , Selis F. , Ruvo M. , Chambery A.
Published: May 2017

Rationale

Because of the large molecular weight, the structural complexity and the similarity with endogenous immunoglobulins present in high concentrations, in vivo quantitative studies with therapeutic monoclonal antibodies are particularly challenging. In this work, an UPLC/MRM MS‐based methodology is described for the quantification of trastuzumab in human serum by monitoring a novel specific peptide marker located within its heavy chain Complementarity‐Determining Region (CDR).

Methods

For maximum sensitivity and selectivity, specific transitions of this diagnostic proteotypic peptide were optimized and monitored at m/z 364.1 → 437.3 (quantitation ion) and m/z 364.1 → 358.0 (confirmation ion). As a proof‐of‐concept, the methodology was applied to the determination of trastuzumab in human serum over a clinically relevant range from 0.02 to 200 μg/mL. The methodology has been evaluated in terms of specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, detection and quantitation limits.

Results

An excellent linear response has been obtained in the range from 0.036 to 3.6 fmol/μL for the standard peptide and from 0.03 to 285 fmol/μL for the trastuzumab in human serum with typical R2 values of 0.99. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) are 0.005 fmol/μL and 0.05 fmol/μL, respectively, with mean bias and RSD values of 18% and 1%, respectively, for quality control samples.

Conclusions

The strategy used to set up the UPLC/MRM MS methodology based on monitoring specific peptide markers within CDRs can be potentially applied to the detection and quantification of other humanized or human mAbs in biological fluids. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical modelling of pool and weir fishways with rock weirs
Authors: Kupferschmidt C. , Zhu D. Z.
Published: May 2017

The flow characteristics of pool and weir fishways with rock weirs were studied through physical modelling. Detailed flow measurements were obtained using an acoustic Doppler velocimeter to understand how weir geometry, discharge, and bed slope affect flow patterns, velocity, turbulence kinetic energy, turbulence intensity, and Reynolds shear stresses in the fishway. The weir geometries used in this study are similar to those typically used for river restoration projects. The use of a V‐shaped rock weir was found to reduce the mean streamwise velocity in the pools by about 20% but more than double the maximum velocity magnitude. Two stage–discharge relationships were developed using the standard weir equation and a modified discharge coefficient to account for both flow over the weir and orifice flow through the base of the weir. The use of V‐shaped rock weirs has the potential to offer significant advantages in assisting multispecies fish migration. The results of this study can be applied to the hydrotechnical design of pool and weir fishways with rock weirs and for river restoration projects.
Site fidelity and movement of a small‐bodied fish species, the rainbow darter (Etheostoma caeruleum): Implications for environmental effects assessment
Authors: Hicks K. A. , Servos M. R.
Published: May 2017

Small‐bodied fish species are commonly used for the assessment of environmental effects because they are short lived, abundant, and they mature early. Although they are generally considered to be less mobile than larger bodied species, relatively little is known about their movement patterns. In this study, we tagged 3,001 rainbow darters (Etheostoma caeruleum) (≤76 mm) in the upper Grand River of southern Ontario with visible implant alpha tags and elastomers in 3 riffles. Five hundred sixty‐five fish were recaptured over 4 recapture events (including spawning and nonspawning periods) over a spatial extent of 1900 m. The rainbow darter demonstrated high site fidelity having a median movement of 5 m and with 85% staying within the riffle in which they were originally tagged. Most movements occurred during the spawning period, where males moved at a greater frequency and had a tendency to move longer distances (up to 975 m). There was also a bias in the direction of movement, which was dependent on the recapture season. Overall, the high site fidelity of the rainbow darter makes it a candidate, sentinel species for the assessment of environmental effects.
P‐value calibration in multiple hypotheses testing
Authors: Cabras Stefano , Castellanos Maria Eugenia
Published: May 2017

As p‐values are the most common measures of evidence against a hypothesis, their calibration with respect to null hypothesis conditional probability is important in order to match frequentist unconditional inference with the Bayesian ones. The Selke, Bayarri and Berger calibration is one of the most popular attempts to obtain such a calibration. This relies on the theoretical sampling null distribution of p‐values, which is the well‐known Uniform(0,1), but arising only for specific sampling models. We generalize this calibration by considering a sampling null distribution estimated from the data. It is possible to obtain such an empirical null distribution, for instance, in the context of multiple testing in which many p‐values come from the null model. Such a context is purely instrumental for the purposes of p‐value calibration, and multiple testing still needs to be considered with appropriate techniques. The new calibration proposed here still remains a simple analytic formula like the original one under the Uniform(0,1) and basically provides a stronger interpretation framework for the widely used p‐value. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Zn and Cd‐Based Coordination Networks: Highly Selective Naked Eye Sensing of Pyridine
Authors: Das Kuheli , Mendiratta Shruti , Datta Amitabha , Massera Chiara , Beyene Belete B. , Hung Chen‐Hsiung
Published: May 2017

Two new coordination compounds, namely [Zn(Hstp)2(Hbipy)2] (1) and {[Cd9(2‐stp)6(bipy)6(H2O)12]•7H2O}n (2) have been synthesized hydrothermally. Compound 1 is a mononuclear Zn(II) complex which forms a 3‐D supramolecular framework through hydrogen bonding and π⋯π interactions. Compound 2 consists of a 3‐D network comprising five crystallographically distinct Cd(II) centers. Compound 2 can be further described as a 2‐nodal, 4,6‐c net of topological type tck/hcc where the point symbol is {42.52.62}{45.55.65}2. Interestingly, solvent sensing studies reveals that compound 1 is able to selectively sense pyridine and exhibit a prominent color change; therefore it is considered as a promising naked‐eye sensor.
Selective and Direct Hydrogenation of CO2 for the Synthesis of Formic Acid over a Rhodium Hydrotalcite (Rh‐HT) Catalyst
Authors: Maru Minaxi S. , Ram Sanwala , Adwani Jacky H. , Shukla Ram S.
Published: May 2017

Rhodium hydrotalcite (Rh‐HT), a heterogeneous catalyst was synthesized, characterized and investigated for CO2 hydrogenation. The catalyst was effectual for the CO2 hydrogenation and selective formation of formic acid at a moderate temperature and was efficiently recycled up to 5 times without any significant loss in activity. A TON of 15840 for formic acid was selectively obtained at 50 bar pressure (1:1, p/p, CO2 and H2) and 60 °C temperature in a mixture of methanol:water (5:1 v/v, 60 mL) as a solvent in 24 h with no additional base. The effect of various reaction parameters was investigated for the reaction rate and CO2 conversion. The formic acid formation rate follows the 1st order kinetic trend regarding the catalyst amount and partial pressure. The determined activation parameters from the temperature dependence rate of formic acid were Ea=33.5 ± 2.5 kJmol−1, ΔH#=30.9 ± 2.5 kJmol−1, ΔS#=‐275 ± 5 Jdeg−1mol−1. The presence of water as a solvent together with methanol have effectively enhanced the performance of the catalyst. The mechanistic routes for CO2 hydrogenation to formic acid are proposed and discussed by the kinetic and experimental observations.
Synthesis, Characteristics and Aliphatic Alcohol Sensing Behavior of Poly(m–aminophenol)/Sulfonic Acid‐Functionalized Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Composite
Authors: Verma Sushil K. , Choudhury Arup , Kar Pradip
Published: May 2017

The in‐situ synthesis and characteristics of sulfonic acid group functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotubes incorporated poly(m‐aminophenol) composite (PmAP/s‐MWCNT) has been investigated. The fabricated nanocomposite film was successfully exploited as aliphatic alcohol vapor sensor material. The amount of s‐MWCNT inside the PmAP matrix was optimized as about 2 wt% in terms of highest average conductivity achieved (3.2 × 10−2 S/cm) for the composites due to induced site‐selective interaction between the conjugated PmAP chain and s‐MWCNT. The functionalization of MWCNT and the interfacial interaction in the nanocomposite was confirmed by spectroscopic analysis. The morphological analysis of the nanocomposite by Field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy indicated the formation of PmAP layers (thickness ∼200 nm) on the surfaces of s‐MWCNTs. The nanocomposite sensor exhibited distinct features of the response curves and percent response values for different aliphatic alcohols especially for methanol and ethanol, which could be used as a basis for the selective detection of these pollutant vapors.
Synthesis and Desymmetrization of meso‐2,3‐Diphenylpiperazine for Application in Asymmetric Transformations
Authors: Periasamy Mariappan , Edukondalu Athukuri , Ramesh Eagala
Published: May 2017

The meso‐2,3‐diphenylpiperazine was prepared in 86 % yield with 99:1 dr from the readily accessible 5,6‐diphenyl‐2,3‐dihydropyrazine by NaBH4/MeOH reduction. The corresponding diastereomeric amides prepared using (R)‐(‐)‐menthyl chloroformate, after separation, benzylation and hydrolysis gave both isomers of optically active N‐benzyl‐2,3‐diphenylpiperazine samples in up to 94 % ee which after further enrichment using the simple achiral oxalic acid afforded samples of both enatiomers in 99 % ee. Reaction of the chiral optically active N‐benzyl‐2,3‐diphenylpiperazine with terminal alkynes and aldehydes in the presence of ZnCl2 gave the corresponding propargylamines with very high diasterioselectivities (up to 99:1 dr) from which both enantiomers of chiral allenes were obtained in up to 82–86 % ee by reaction with ZnBr2 in toluene at 120 °C.
Thiosemicarbazone Moiety Assist in Interaction of Planar Aromatic Molecules with Amyloid Beta Peptide and Acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Ranade Dnyanesh S. , Shravage Bhupendra V. , Kumbhar Anupa A. , Sonawane Uddhavesh B. , Jani Vinod P. , Joshi Rajendra R. , Kulkarni Prasad P.
Published: May 2017

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder. Aggregation of Aβ peptide, Aβ‐induced cytotoxicity and deficit of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine are strongly linked to the progression of AD. Herein, we synthesized aromatic thiosemicarbazone (TSC) analogues with two, three and four phenyl rings. Result obtained from docking studies showed that hydrophobic aromatic moieties are essential for interaction with aggregation prone region of Aβ peptide while thiosemicarbazone forms hydrogen bonding contacts with peptide residues. Docking studies also demonstrated that phenyl rings and thiosemicarbazone moiety present in TSC 3 forms hydrophobic interactions as well as hydrogen bonding interactions with CAS region of AChE respectively. Results of turbidity assay and ThT assay revealed that TSC 3 with four phenyl rings exhibited improved inhibition of Aβ (1‐42) peptide aggregation. Interestingly, TSC 3 also showed reversal of rough eye phenotype even at 20 μM concentration in the Drosophila model of AD.
Efficient Access to o‐Phenylendiamines and Their Use in the Synthesis of a 1,2‐Dialkyl‐5‐trifluoromethylbenzimidazoles Library Under Microwave Conditions
Authors: Vargas‐Oviedo Diana , Charris‐Molina Andrés , Portilla Jaime
Published: May 2017

A quick access toward a 1,2‐dialkyl‐5‐trifluoromethylbenzimidazoles library by a three‐step synthesis sequence starting from 1‐chloro‐2‐nitro‐4‐(trifluoromethyl)benzene is described. The synthesis proceed via o‐phenylendiamines eficiently isolated, which also are key synthetic intermediates of another valuable heterocyclic compounds. Likewise, the trifluoromethyl group is part of the obtained benzimidazoles, affording an important structural feature for their possible applications. The advantages of this methodology are the modular lipophilicity of products, easy work‐up, up to 83% overall yield, the convenient use of microwave‐assisted reactions, and the production of compounds (intermediates and products) of high‐added value using cheap reagents and simple protocols.
An automated framework to support testing for process‐level race conditions
Authors: Yu Tingting , Srisa-an Witty , Rothermel Gregg
Published: May 2017

Race conditions are difficult to detect because they usually occur only under specific execution interleavings. Numerous program analysis and testing techniques have been proposed to detect race conditions between threads on single applications. However, most of these techniques neglect races that occur at the process level due to complex system event interactions. This article presents a framework,SIMEXPLORER, that allows engineers to effectively test for process‐level race conditions.SIMEXPLORERfirst uses dynamic analysis techniques to observe system execution, identify program locations of interest, and report faults related to oracles. Next, it uses virtualization to achieve the fine‐grained controllability needed to exercise event interleavings that are likely to expose races. We evaluated the effectiveness ofSIMEXPLORERon 24 real‐world applications containing both known and unknown process‐level race conditions. Our results show thatSIMEXPLORERis effective at detecting these race conditions, while incurring an overhead that is acceptable given its effectiveness improvements.
Constructing a Voice in English as a Foreign Language: Identity and Engagement
Authors: Nasrollahi Shahri Mohammad Naseh
Published: May 2017

Situated in an English as a foreign language (EFL) context, this study navigates the intersection of language learner identity and foreign language engagement. Specifically, drawing on the concept of voice (Canagarajah,; Johnstone,; Kramsch,), Bakhtin's () theory of language, and the notion of investment (Darvin & Norton,; Norton Peirce,), it presents two case studies of voice construction byEFLlearners in Iran. Through classroom observations, biographical and sociolinguistic interviews, and learner metalinguistic commentary, the study reveals how the two participants invest in two different voices that index their efforts toward the construction of a second language–mediated identity. The two learners are shown to gravitate toward informal and formal English words and use them in their speech in ways that are illustrative of how they envision their engagement with English both in the present and in the future. The pedagogical implications of the study are then discussed.
Interactive effect of calcined eggshell and montmorillonite on the characteristics of polyvinyl alcohol blends
Authors: Bee Soo‐Tueen , Liew Shan‐Qi , Ang Wei , Tin Sin Lee , Bee Soo‐Ling , Rahmat Abdul Razak
Published: May 2017

The objective of this work was to investigate the effect of calcined eggshell and montmorillonite (MMT) on the mechanical‐physico properties and thermal characteristics of the polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) blends. The increasing of calcined eggshell loading level up to 2 phr has gradually tensile strength of PVOH and PVOH/MMT blends. The MMT particles in PVOH matrix were observed to effectively intercalate into polymer matrix of 2 phr calcined eggshell added PVOH/MMT blends with the increasing of d‐spacing of deflection peak (002). Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the greater dispersion of calcined eggshell particles in PVOH matrix for both PVOH blends and PVOH/MMT blends at low loading levels of calcined eggshell (<3 phr). The incorporation of low calcined eggshell loading levels (≤2 phr) has significantly increased the melting temperature and enthalpy of melting of PVOH and PVOH/MMT blends, indicating the good interaction effect (intermolecular bonding) between calcined eggshell and PVOH matrix. In conclusion, the addition of calcined eggshell at lower loading levels has significant improvement effect on the mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of both PVOH and PVOH/MMT blends. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 24:324–338, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Floating lidar as an advanced offshore wind speed measurement technique: current technology status and gap analysis in regard to full maturity
Authors: Gottschall Julia , Gribben Brian , Stein Detlef , Würth Ines
Published: May 2017

Floating lidar was introduced in 2009 as an offshore wind measurement technology focusing on the specific needs of the wind industry with regard to wind resource assessment applications. Floating lidar systems (FLS) are meant to replace an offshore met mast, being significantly cheaper and saving an essential part of project upfront investment costs. But at the same time, they need to overcome particular challenges—these are (1) the movement of the sea imparting motion on the buoy and the lidar, and the subsequent challenge of maintaining wind speed and direction accuracy, and (2) the remoteness of the deployed system in an extremely challenging environment necessitating robust, autonomous and reliable operation of measurement, power supply, data logging, and communication systems. The issue of motion influences was investigated in a number of studies and is to be checked and monitored in offshore trials of individual FLS realizations. In trials to date, such influences have been demonstrated to be negligibly or manageably small with the application of motion reduction or compensation strategies. Thereby, it is possible to achieve accurate wind measurement data from FLS. The second kind of challenge is tackled by implementing a sufficiently robust and reliable FLS design. Recommended practices collected by a working group within the International Energy Agency (IEA) Wind Task 32 and within the UK offshore wind accelerator program offer guidance for FLS design and configuration, and furthermore set requirements for trialing the system types and individual devices in representative offshore conditions. WIREs Energy Environ 2017, 6:e250. doi: 10.1002/wene.250

This article is categorized under:

Wind Power > Science and Materials

Wind Power > Climate and Environment
Dietary PUFA Increase Apoptosis in Stomach of Patients with Dyspeptic Symptoms and Infected with H. pylori
Authors: Sharifi Rasoul , Nouri Mohammad , Eidi Akram , Noormohammadi Zahra , Dolatkhah Homayun , Shirmohammadi Masoud
Published: May 2017

Drug‐resistant strains of Helicobacter pylori and poor treatment response are the main reasons for the failure in eradicating it in patients. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have an inhibitory effect on bacterial growth. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PUFA in combination with standard triple therapy on apoptosis in H. pylori infected subjects with dyspeptic symptoms. This study was a double‐blind clinical trial in which 34 H. pylori infected subjects with dyspeptic symptoms were randomly divided into two groups of 17 patients. The control group received standard triple therapy (amoxicillin, clarithromycin and omeprazole) and the experimental group received the standard therapy and PUFA for two weeks. Gene expression levels of caspase‐3, BCL‐2 and Bad proteins were studied with real‐time PCR, while protein levels were quantified in frozen sections and using immunohistochemistry. Compared with the control group, a significant increase (p < 0.01) was observed in the expression of caspase‐3 and Bad genes and a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the expression of Bcl‐2 gene. The protein level of active caspase‐3 and Bad protein was significantly increased and the level of Bcl‐2 protein was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The results of this study show that oral administration of PUFA in combination with the standard triple therapy increased apoptosis in H. pylori‐infected patients with dyspeptic symptoms. This increase in apoptosis may partly reduce drug resistance in these patients. Our results suggest inclusion of a dietary PUFA containing fatty acid supplement may improve treatment of patients that are refractory to the standard triple therapy.
The German East-West Mortality Difference: Two Crossovers Driven by Smoking
Authors: Vogt Tobias , van Raalte Alyson , Grigoriev Pavel , Myrskylä Mikko
Published: May 2017

Before the fall of the Berlin Wall, mortality was considerably higher in the former East Germany than in West Germany. The gap narrowed rapidly after German reunification. The convergence was particularly strong for women, to the point that Eastern women aged 50–69 now have lower mortality despite lower incomes and worse overall living conditions. Prior research has shown that lower smoking rates among East German female cohorts born in the 1940s and 1950s were a major contributor to this crossover. However, after 1990, smoking behavior changed dramatically, with higher smoking intensity observed among women in the eastern part of Germany. We forecast the impact of this changing smoking behavior on East-West mortality differences and find that the higher smoking rates among younger East German cohorts will reverse their contemporary mortality advantage. Mortality forecasting methods that do not account for smoking would, perhaps misleadingly, forecast a growing mortality advantage for East German women. Experience from other countries shows that smoking can be effectively reduced by strict anti-smoking policies. Instead, East Germany is becoming an example warning of the consequences of weakening anti-smoking policies and changing behavioral norms.
Association Between Sexual Problems and Relationship Satisfaction Among People with Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Byrne Molly , Murphy Patrick , D’Eath Maureen , Doherty Sally , Jaarsma Tiny
Published: May 2017

Background

Relationship satisfaction is generally positively correlated with sexual satisfaction, but this relation has been poorly examined in people with cardiovascular disease who are at increased risk of sexual problems compared with the general population.

Aim

To document reported changes to sex after a diagnosis of cardiac disease and determine whether there is an association between sexual function and relationship satisfaction.

Methods

Semistructured telephone interviews focused on relationship satisfaction and sexual problems were conducted with 201 people with cardiovascular disease who were currently in a sexual relationship with one main partner and were recruited from six hospital cardiac rehabilitation centers in Ireland. Comparisons between groups were conducted using t-tests and multivariate analysis of variance for continuous variables and χ2 tests for categorical variables. Predictors of relationship satisfaction were assessed using multiple linear regression analysis.

Outcomes

Data were gathered on demographic and clinical variables, sexual problems, and relationship satisfaction, including satisfaction with the physical, emotional, affection, and communication aspects of relationships.

Results

Just less than one third of participants (n = 61, 30.3%) reported that sex had changed for the worse since their cardiac event or diagnosis, with approximately half of these stating that this was a serious problem for them. Satisfaction with relationships was high among patients surveyed; more than 70% of the sample reported being very or extremely satisfied with the physical and emotional aspects and showing affection during sex. Satisfaction with communication about sex was lower, with only 58% reporting being very or extremely satisfied. We did not find significant associations between reporting of sexual problems or deterioration of sex as a result of disease and relationship satisfaction.

Clinical Implications

Cardiac rehabilitation programs should address these sexual problems, potentially by enhancing communication within couples about sex.

Strengths and Limitations

The strength is that data are presented on the sexual experiences and relationship satisfaction of a relatively large sample of people diagnosed with cardiac disease, a relatively underexplored research area. Limitations include the possibility of selection bias of study participants and bias associated with self-report measurement.

Conclusions

Sexual problems were significant in this population but were not related to relationship satisfaction in this cross-sectional survey.
Clinical‐radiological correlation and role of computed tomography staging in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Rathor Aakanksha , Bhattacharjee Abhinandan
Published: May 2017

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether there is a clinical‐radiological correlation in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), to compare operative findings with those of computed tomography (CT) imaging, and to determine the importance of a CT score and staging in management of CRS.

Methods

This study is a prospective study. Adult patients meeting diagnostic criteria for CRS were prospectively studied using the Lund–Mackay (LM) symptom score and sinus CT scan. The symptom scores were correlated with CT stage according to the Kennedy and LM staging systems. Similarly, the intraoperative findings were correlated with the Kennedy staging system. The spectrum of anatomical variations in our study population was compared with the findings of symptomatic patients in various other studies.

Results

Thirty‐four adult patients (13 females, 21 males, mean age: 33 years) met our inclusion criteria. Most of the patients presented with nasal obstruction, headache, and hyposmia. Nasal polyposis was the most common finding in CT scans, with many cases of retention cysts reported as polyps. In total, 50% of patients had a deviated septum. Concha bullosa was the most common finding among the various anatomical variations encroaching the ostiomeatal complex (OMC). In 60%–70% of cases, the CT scan grading correlated with operative findings. LM symptoms scores showed a poor correlation with both LM CT scores and the Kennedy stage.

Conclusions

Although CT provided detailed information on sinus involvement; its relation with symptom severity is not reliable. The Kennedy CT staging system correlated better with CRS symptoms. Thus, use of Kennedy staging could be useful to endoscopic sinus surgeons as it provides an insight into the pathophysiology, can guide treatment, and facilitate prognosis prediction in CRS.
Settlements in the Supreme Court of Israel
Authors: Kretzmer David
Published: May 2017

One of the unique features of Israel's legal, military, and political
control over the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) has been the review by the Supreme
Court of Israel of the actions and decisions of the authorities in
those territories. Sitting as a High Court of Justice that has the competence to
review the actions of all persons exercising public functions under law, the
Court has entertained thousands of petitions relating to the legality of such
varied actions as house demolitions, deportations, land requisition, entry
permits, and establishment of settlements. There can be little doubt that the
very existence of judicial review has had a restraining effect on the
authorities. While the Court has not ruled against the government that often,
and has provided legitimization for acts of dubious legality, such as punitive
house demolitions and deportations, it has handed down some important
rulings on questions of principle. Furthermore, in the shadow of the
Court, many petitions have been settled without a court ruling, allowing for a
full or partial remedy for the Palestinian petitioner.
Israel's Creeping Annexation
Authors: Dajani Omar M.
Published: May 2017

A raft of legislative proposals introduced in the Knesset over the last several
years has raised the specter of Israeli annexation of additional West Bank
territory. One
bill would provide for nearly automatic application of new Knesset
legislation to Israelis residing in the West Bank. A
second would authorize the expropriation under certain circumstances
of privately-owned Palestinian land for incorporation into Israeli settlements,
extending the Knesset's reach to the regulation of West Bank land use by
non-Israelis. A third, entitled the “Maale Adumim
Annexation Law,” provides for the full application of Israeli
law in Israel's largest West Bank settlement, as well as in an adjacent
twelve square kilometer area called the “E1 Zone,” one of the few
remaining land reserves available for the development of Palestinian East
Jerusalem.
Seedbank Dynamics of Two Swallowwort (Vincetoxicum) Species
Authors: DiTommaso Antonio , Milbrath Lindsey R. , Morris Scott H. , Mohler Charles L. , Biazzo Jeromy
Published: May 2017

Pale swallowwort and black swallowwort are European viny milkweeds that have become invasive in many habitats in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. A multiyear seedbank study was initiated in fall 2011 to assess annual emergence of seedlings and longevity of seeds of pale swallowwort and black swallowwort at four different burial depths (0, 1, 5, and 10 cm) over 4 yr. One hundred swallowwort seeds were sown in seed pans buried in individual pots, and emerged seedlings were counted and removed from May through September each year. A subset of seed pans was retrieved annually in October, and recovered seeds were counted and tested for viability. The majority of seedling emergence occurred during the first year (92% in 2012), and no new seedlings emerged in the third (2014) or fourth (2015) years. Pale swallowwort had relatively poor emergence at sowing depths of 0 cm (11%), 5 cm (6%), and 10 cm (0.05%—only one seedling), while 37% of pale swallowwort seeds emerged at 1 cm. The larger-seeded black swallowwort was more successful, with two-thirds of all sown seeds emerging at depths of 1 cm (71%) and 5 cm (66%), and 26% emerging at 10 cm. Only 16% of the surface-sown black swallowwort emerged. A large portion of the seeds that germinated at 10 cm, as well as at 5 cm for pale swallowwort, died before reaching the soil surface. Of filled seeds that were recovered in 2012 (black swallowwort at the 0-cm depth), 66% were viable. No viable seeds were recovered after the second growing season. Seeds recovered following the third year had become too deteriorated to accurately assess. Swallowwort seeds do not appear to survive more than 2 yr in the soil, at least in our experiment, suggesting that the elimination of seed production over 3 yr will exhaust the local seedbank. Seeds would need to be buried at least 10 cm for pale swallowwort but more than 10 cm for black swallowwort to prevent seedling emergence. Burial of swallowwort seeds as a management strategy may, however, only be practical in natural areas where high swallowwort densities occur.
The Relationship Between Hope, Social Inclusion, and Mental Wellbeing in Supported Employment
Authors: Dunstan Debra A. , Falconer Amanda K. , Price Ian R.
Published: May 2017

This study explored the relationships between hope, social inclusion, and mental wellbeing in a sample of people in recovery from mental illness. Participants were 70 adults (60% male) with a psychiatric disability (71.4% schizophrenia) who were engaged in supported employment by an Australian Disability Enterprise. Compared to others diagnosed with a mental disorder, the participants in this study had higher levels of hope, social inclusion, and mental wellbeing, and lower levels of psychological distress. Hope and social inclusion predicted mental wellbeing, with social inclusion partially mediating the relationship between the other two constructs. Participants reported experiencing the psychosocial benefits of work (e.g., structured activity and a shared purpose) but were dissatisfied with their wages. The findings support Jahoda's Latent Deprivation theory of social inclusion and the psychosocial benefits of work participation to recovery from mental illness.
Langmuir probe in collisionless and collisional plasma including dusty
plasma
Authors: Bose Sayak , Kaur Manjit , Chattopadhyay P. K. , Ghosh J. , Saxena Y. C. , Pal R.
Published: May 2017

Measurements of local plasma parameters in dusty plasma are crucial for understanding
the physics issues related to such systems. The Langmuir probe, a small electrode
immersed in the plasma, provides such measurements. However, designing of a Langmuir
probe system in a dusty plasma environment demands special consideration. First, the
probe has to be miniaturized enough so that its perturbation on the ambient dust
structure is minimal. At the same time, the probe dimensions must be such that a
well-defined theory exists for interpretation of its characteristics. The associated
instrumentation must also support the measurement of current collected by the probe
with high signal to noise ratio. The most important consideration, of course, comes
from the fact that the probes are prone to dust contamination, as the dust particles
tend to stick to the probe surface and alter the current collecting area in
unpredictable ways. This article describes the design and operation of a Langmuir
probe system that resolves these challenging issues in dusty plasma. In doing so,
first, different theories that are used to interpret the probe characteristics in
collisionless as well as in collisional regimes are discussed, with special emphasis
on application. The critical issues associated with the current–voltage
characteristics of Langmuir probe obtained in different operating regimes are
discussed. Then, an algorithm for processing these characteristics efficiently in
presence of ion-neutral collisions in the probe sheath is presented.
A fully implicit numerical integration of the relativistic particle equation of motion
Authors: Pétri J.
Published: May 2017

Relativistic strongly magnetized plasmas are produced in laboratories thanks to state-of-the-art laser technology but can naturally be found around compact objects such as neutron stars and black holes. Detailed studies of the behaviour of relativistic plasmas require accurate computations able to catch the full spatial and temporal dynamics of the system. Numerical simulations of ultra-relativistic plasmas face severe restrictions due to limitations in the maximum possible Lorentz factors that current algorithms can reproduce to good accuracy. In order to circumvent this flaw and repel the limit to$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FE}\approx 10^{9}$, we design a new fully implicit scheme to solve the relativistic particle equation of motion in an external electromagnetic field using a three-dimensional Cartesian geometry. We show some examples of numerical integrations in constant electromagnetic fields to prove the efficiency of our algorithm. The code is also able to follow the electric drift motion for high Lorentz factors. In the most general case of spatially and temporally varying electromagnetic fields, the code performs extremely well, as shown by comparison with exact analytical solutions for the relativistic electrostatic Kepler problem as well as for linearly and circularly polarized plane waves.
GENE EXPRESSION PROFILING AND EXPANDED IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY TESTS TO GUIDE SELECTION OF CHEMOTHERAPY REGIMENS IN BREAST CANCER MANAGEMENT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Scope Alison , Essat Munira , Pandor Abdullah , Rafia Rachid , Ward Sue E. , Wyld Lynda , Cross Simon , Woods Helen Buckley
Published: May 2017

Objectives:The aim of this report was to assess the clinical effectiveness of two Gene expression profiling (GEP) and two expanded immunohistochemistry (IHC) tests compared with current prognostic tools in guiding the use of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with early breast cancer.

Methods:A systematic review of the evidence on clinical effectiveness of OncotypeDX, IHC4, MammaPrint, and Mammostrat, compared with current clinical practice using clinicopathological parameters, in women with early breast cancer was conducted. Ten databases were searched to include citations to May 2016.

Results:Searches identified 7,064 citations, of which forty-one citations satisfied the criteria for the review. A narrative synthesis was performed. Evidence for OncotypeDX demonstrated the impact of the test on decision making and there was some support for OncotypeDX predicting chemotherapy benefit. There were relatively lower levels of evidence for the other three tests included in the analysis. MammaPrint, Mammostrat, and IHC4 tests were limited to a small number of studies. Limitations in relation to study design were identified for all tests.

Conclusions:The evidence base for OncotypeDX is considered to be the most robust. Methodological weaknesses relating to heterogeneity of patient cohorts and issues arising from the retrospective nature of the evidence were identified. Further evidence is required for all of the tests using prospective randomized controlled trial data.
Cost-effectiveness of salt reduction to prevent hypertension and CVD: a systematic review
Authors: Schorling Elisabeth , Niebuhr Dea , Kroke Anja
Published: May 2017

Objective

To analyse and compare the cost-effectiveness of different interventions to reduce salt consumption.

Design

A systematic review of published cost-effectiveness analyses (CEA) and cost-utility analyses (CUA) was undertaken in the databases EMBASE, MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane and others until July 2016. Study selection was limited to CEA and CUA conducted in member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in English, German or French, without time limit. Outcomes measures were life years gained (LYG), disability-adjusted life years (DALY) and quality-adjusted life years (QALY). Relevant aspects in modelling were analysed and compared. Quality assessments were conducted using the Drummond and Jefferson/British Medical Journalchecklist.

Setting

OECD member countries.

Subjects

Mainly adults.

Results

Fourteen CEA and CUA were included in the review which analysed different strategies: salt reduction or substitution in processed foods, taxes, labelling, awareness campaigns and targeted dietary advice. Fifty-nine out of sixty-two scenarios were cost-saving. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in international dollars (Intl.$; 2015) was particularly low for taxes, a salt reduction by food manufacturers and labelling (<−3072 Intl.$/QALY, −6187 Intl.$/LYG and <584 Intl.$/DALY over the time horizon compared with the status quo or no intervention). Targeted dietary advice was rather not cost-effective (24 600 Intl.$/QALY and >303 900 Intl.$/DALY). However, only six studies analysed cost-effectiveness from a societal perspective and quality assessments showed flaws in conducting and a lack of transparency in reporting.

Conclusions

A population-wide salt reduction could be cost-effective in prevention of hypertension and CVD in OECD member countries. However, comparability between study results is limited due to differences in modelling, applied perspectives and considered data.
Nitrogen Gas Field Ion Source (GFIS) Focused Ion Beam (FIB) Secondary Electron Imaging: A First Look
Authors: Schmidt Marek E. , Yasaka Anto , Akabori Masashi , Mizuta Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

The recent technological advance of the gas field ion source (GFIS) and its successful integration into systems has renewed the interest in the focused ion beam (FIB) technology. Due to the atomically small source size and the use of light ions, the limitations of the liquid metal ion source are solved as device dimensions are pushed further towards the single-digit nanometer size. Helium and neon ions are the most widely used, but a large portfolio of available ion species is desirable, to allow a wide range of applications. Among argon and hydrogen,
$${\rm N}_{2}^{{\plus}} $$
ions offer unique characteristics due to their covalent bond and their use as dopant for various carbon-based materials including diamond. Here, we provide a first look at the
$${\rm N}_{2}^{{\plus}} $$
GFIS-FIB enabled imaging of a large selection of microscopic structures, including gold on carbon test specimen, thin metal films on insulator and nanostructured carbon-based devices, which are among the most actively researched materials in the field of nanoelectronics. The results are compared with images acquired by He+ ions, and we show that
$${\rm N}_{2}^{{\plus}} $$
GFIS-FIB can offer improved material contrast even at very low imaging dose and is more sensitive to the surface roughness.