bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Benefits of ART simplification on adherence, clinical and economic outcomes
Authors: Vera J , Aragão F , Guimaraes M , Vaz Pinto I 
Published: November 2012

Purpose of the studyFixed‐dose combinations (FDCs) and single‐tablet regimens (STRs) may reduce complete non‐adherence (CNA) but also have the potential additional benefit of avoiding partial non‐adherence (PNA) (some but not all drugs taken). We test this hypothesis and then estimate the impact of PNA‐free regimen (STRs) on clinical and economic outcomes.MethodsThe unit analysis was a person‐regimen of 2 NRTI+(NNRTI, PI/r) lasting ≥90 days. Adherence was measured by the proportion of days covered using pharmacy refill data. The Wilcoxon rank‐sum test was used to compare CNA, PNA and total non‐adherence (TNA) in the following groups: STR vs its components (EFV+TDF/FTC) and non‐FDC vs FDC vs STR. The level of adherence per group and the impact of PNA and CNA on virological failure (VF) were estimated using multivariate regression panel data models (MVRPDM). Control variables included age, gender, hepatitis co‐infection, cumulative comorbidity score, CD4, viral load, regimen duration and calendar year. MVRPDM we also used to access the impact of PNA‐free regimens on the probability of at least one hospitalization and on annualized hospitalization+ART costs. The analysis was performed in Stata 11®.Summary of resultsThe retrospective analysis was performed on 2,449 person‐regimens from a cohort of 1,435 HIV‐infected individuals followed in one HIV unit in Portugal, between 2001 and 2011. Median age was 38 years old and median regimen duration was 1.9 years. CNA was higher (23%) in the non‐FDC (p<0.001 vs other groups) and similar in FDC vs STR (15% vs 11%, p=0.951). PNA was higher in non‐FDC than FDC (4.2% vs 3.4%; p=0.020) and obviously null with STR (p<0.001 vs other groups). In the subgroup analysis of EFV+FTC/TDF vs STR, TNA was 16% and 11% (p=0.0025). In MVRPDM, STRs are estimated to result in a decrease of 11% (p<0.001) and 5.3% (p<0.001) in TNA relatively to non‐FDC and FDC, respectively. Both CNA and PNA were found to be predictors of VF (p<0.001 and p=0.020, respectively). The odds ratio of hospitalization with STRs vs other regimens was 0.33 (p=0.019). STRs were associated with lower sum of ART+hospitalization annualized costs (−1,330€; p<0.001) when compared to other regimens.ConclusionsThis study suggests that FDC and STRs are of value in avoiding PNA and TNA, thereby reducing the probability of virological failure, and that PNA‐free regimens are associated with clinical and economic benefits.
The role of SEAD project intervention in viral suppression of HIV/AIDS patients with follow‐up and adherence barriers
Authors: Elías Casado L , Pérez Elías M , López Pérez D , Pumares Álvarez M , Martinez‐Colubi M , Moreno Zamora A , Muriel A , Dronda F , Marti‐Belda P , Gómez‐Ayerbe C , Rodriguez Sagrado M , Moreno Guillén S 
Published: November 2012

Purpose of studyIrregular FUP/ADH were associated with virologic failure [1] leading to an increase in mortality [2]. SEAD was a multidimensional intervention project, designed from the patient's perspective, to specifically attend patients with poor FUP/ ADH in an HIV/AIDS outpatient clinic.MethodsFrom Jan 2006 to May 2010, patients with poor FUP/ADH were offered SEAD inclusion, all were evaluated by a nurse or a psychologist (adherence collaborators) who assessed all the reasons and barriers precluding a correct FUP/ADH. For each identified problem, different interventions were planned, using our own resources or coordinating others. Follow‐up was censored in Nov 2011. Univariate and multivariable models were performed to evaluate the influence of SEAD intervention in virological suppression (HIV‐ARN <1.7 log copies/mL) at the end of follow‐up.Summary of resultsOverall, 242 patients were assessed: mean age 46 years, 78% men, 69% IDU, 51% AIDS, baseline ADH >90% 29.3%; median CD4 cell count 333 [164–536] cells/mL and HIV‐RNA <1.57 45%. Patients were admitted in SEAD due to poor ADH 15%, FUP problems 21%, both FUP/ADH 53% and to prevent poor ADH or FUP 11%. Main reasons driving poor FUP/ADH were severe biopsychosocial problems 26%, severe drug and/or alcohol abuse 23%, logistic problems 21.3%, other psychiatric disorders 14%, oversights 10%, unknown 3% and antiretroviral intolerance 2%. Cocaine/heroin and alcohol abuse was reported by 33% and 16%. Only 57% of patients received >50% of planned interventions. After a median follow‐up of 3.9 (3.27–4.43) years 218 patients received 8 (3–12) interventions/year, 95% evaluation interview and 30% psychological counselling (3 sessions/year [2–5]). Virological suppression was achieved by 67% of patients. In logistic regression analysis an intervention higher than 50% of planned HR 0.220 [IC 95% (0.112–0.44)] and receiving psychological counselling HR 0.44 [IC 95% (0.20–0.97)] were independent predictors of virological suppression whereas alcohol 3.11 (95% CI 1.24–7.80) and severe biopsychosocial problems HR 2.39 (95% CI 1.134–5.040) were associated with worse virological response, after adjusting for age, alcohol or cocaine abuse, degree of adherence, baseline virological suppression, median follow–up, intravenous acquisition of HIV, and family support.ConclusionsGeneral and psychological SEAD intervention resulted in higher virological suppression in patients with severe follow‐up and adherence barriers.
HAART roll‐out in the new fiscal and economic environment
Authors: Gulick R 
Published: November 2012

There are 27 approved antiretroviral drugs and combinations of these drugs clearly change the natural history of HIV infection, dramatically decreasing HIV‐related morbidity and mortality and promoting healthy survival. Despite the proven benefits, we continue to consider basic strategic questions about antiretroviral therapy: When should we start ART? What regimen to start? When should we change ART? What ART regimen should we change to?Also, despite the benefits of treatment, some antiretroviral regimens may be inconvenient, toxic, and/or have suboptimal antiretroviral activity, particularly against drug‐resistant viruses. Thus, newer compounds are needed that continue to improve convenience and tolerability, reduce toxicity, and improve antiretroviral activity, particularly against drug‐resistant viruses. Additionally, new drugs may better penetrate tissue reservoirs (e.g. genital tract, central nervous system) or exploit new targets with new mechanisms of action.There are a number of HIV drugs in development currently. These include a new pharmacokinetic “boosting” agent and newer antiretroviral agents in a number of existing classes, including new nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, protease inhibitors, entry inhibitors, and integrase inhibitors. In addition there are drugs with new mechanisms of action in development, including the CD4 attachment inhibitors. The clinical use of the newer agents will depend on the results of clinical trials, and the timeline for development and availability.
Elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF (Quad) has durable efficacy and differentiated safety compared to efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF at week 96 in treatment‐naïve HIV‐1‐infected patients
Authors: Zolopa A , Gallant J , Cohen C , Sax P , Dejesus E , Mills A , Wohl D , Liu H , Rhee M , Szwarcberg J 
Published: November 2012

Purpose of the studyThe primary Week 48 analysis of this ongoing, randomized, double‐blind, double‐dummy, active‐controlled Phase 3 trial of elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF (Quad) in treatment‐naïve patients demonstrated that Quad was non‐inferior to efavirenz/emtricitabine/tenofovir DF (EFV/FTC/TDF) with a differentiated safety profile. We report the Week 96 interim data.MethodsKey eligibility criteria included HIV‐1 RNA ≥5,000 c/mL and eGFR ≥70 mL/min. Virologic success (HIV‐1 RNA <50 c/mL) at Week 96 was assessed per snapshot algorithm. Adverse events and laboratory data were collected prospectively.Results700 patients (89% male, 63% white, 33% with HIV‐1 RNA >100,000 c/mL) were randomized and treated. At Week 48, Quad was non‐inferior to EFV/FTC/TDF (88% vs 84%, difference +3.6%, 95% CI ‐1.6% to 8.8%). High rates of virologic success were maintained at Week 96 (84% vs 82%, difference 2.7%, 95% CI ‐2.9% to 8.3%). Subgroup analysis revealed similar rates of virologic success in patients with baseline HIV‐1 RNA >100,000 c/mL (81% vs 83%). Mean CD4 cell increase (cells/mm3) was 295 vs 273. Emergent resistance was infrequent (3% vs 3%). Rates of study drug discontinuation due to adverse events (AEs) were low and comparable (5% vs 7%). Rates of neuropsychiatric AEs were lower in Quad than in EFV/FTC/TDF (47% vs 66%, P<0.001), as were rates of rash (21% vs 31%, P=0.006). Drug discontinuation due to renal reasons occurred in 7 (2%) vs 0 patients through Week 96; only two patients discontinued Quad since Week 48 due to serum creatinine (Cr) increase without features of proximal renal tubulopathy. Median changes in serum Cr (µmol/L [mg/dL]) at Week 96 in Quad vs EFV/FTC/TDF (11.5 vs 0.9 [0.13 vs 0.01]) were similar to those at Week 48 (12.4 vs 0.9 [0.14 vs 0.01]). Quad had smaller median increases (mmol/L [mg/dL]) in total (0.23 vs 0.47 [9 vs 18], P<0.001) and LDL cholesterol (0.23 vs 0.41 [9 vs16], P=0.011), and similar increase in triglycerides (0.05 vs 0.09 [4 vs 8], P=0.41).ConclusionsAt Week 96, Quad demonstrated high rates of virologic suppression with low rates of resistance and a differentiated safety and tolerability profile relative to EFV/FTC/TDF. These results support the durable efficacy and long‐term safety of Quad in HIV‐1 infected patients.
Block Copolymer Hydrogels
Authors: Gao Guang Hui , Li Yi , Lee Doo Sung 
Published: November 2012

Abstract
Block copolymer hydrogels are three‐dimensional polymeric networks that can absorb a considerable amount of water to maintain their semisolid morphology. Chemically cross‐linked hydrogels which can be prepared through disulfide bond formation, photopolymerization, or click chemistry, exhibit a nonreversible phase transition state. In contrast, physically cross‐linked hydrogels can be formed via self‐assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers, in response to environmental stimuli, including pH and/or temperature, and show a sol‐gel phase transition. Importantly, these stimuli‐sensitive physical hydrogels can exist as a sol state prior to administration, and subsequently translate to a gel state after administration under the human body condition. Consequently, the stimuli‐sensitive hydrogels have attracted significant interest for their potential applications in the site‐specific pharmaceutical (drug/protein) delivery and tissue regeneration. The article focuses on synthesis, properties, and biomedical applications of stimuli‐responsive block copolymer hydrogels that exhibit a reversible sol‐gel phase transition in response to temperature, pH, pH/temperature, and other stimulus conditions.
Genetic Manipulation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Angela , Gee Liew Chee 
Published: November 2012

AbstractHuman induced pluripotent stem cells (HIPSC) have tremendous value as a source of autologous cells for cellular transplantation in the treatment of degenerative diseases. The protocols described here address methods for large‐scale genetic modification of HIPSCs. The first is an optimized method for transfecting HIPSCs cultured in feeder‐free conditions. The second method allows nucleofection of trypsinized HIPSCs at an optimal cell density. Both methods enable robust generation of stable HIPSC transfectants within two weeks. Our protocols are highly reproducible and do not require optimization for individual HIPSC and human embryonic stem cell (HESC) lines. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 23:5B.2.1‐5B.2.9. © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Design, Processing, Microstructure, Properties, and Applications of Advanced Intermetallic TiAl Alloys
Authors: Clemens Helmut , Mayer Svea 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAfter almost three decades of intensive fundamental research and development activities, intermetallic titanium aluminides based on the ordered γ‐TiAl phase have found applications in automotive and aircraft engine industry. The advantages of this class of innovative high‐temperature materials are their low density and their good strength and creep properties up to 750 °C as well as their good oxidation and burn resistance. Advanced TiAl alloys are complex multi‐phase alloys which can be processed by ingot or powder metallurgy as well as precision casting methods. Each process leads to specific microstructures which can be altered and optimized by thermo‐mechanical processing and/or subsequent heat treatments. The background of these heat treatments is at least twofold, i.e., concurrent increase of ductility at room temperature and creep strength at elevated temperature. This review gives a general survey of engineering γ‐TiAl based alloys, but concentrates on β‐solidifying γ‐TiAl based alloys which show excellent hot‐workability and balanced mechanical properties when subjected to adapted heat treatments. The content of this paper comprises alloy design strategies, progress in processing, evolution of microstructure, mechanical properties as well as application‐oriented aspects, but also shows how sophisticated ex situ and in situ methods can be employed to establish phase diagrams and to investigate the evolution of the micro‐ and nanostructure during hot‐working and subsequent heat treatments.
N‐Type Self‐Assembled Monolayer Field‐Effect Transistors and Complementary Inverters
Authors: Ringk Andreas , Li Xiaoran , Gholamrezaie Fatemeh , Smits Edsger C. P. , Neuhold Alfred , Moser Armin , Van der Marel Cees , Gelinck Gerwin H. , Resel Roland , de Leeuw Dago M. , Strohriegl Peter 
Published: November 2012

AbstractThis work describes n‐type self‐assembled monolayer field‐effect transistors (SAMFETs) based on a perylene derivative which is covalently fixed to an aluminum oxide dielectric via a phosphonic acid linker. N‐type SAMFETs spontaneously formed by a single layer of active molecules are demonstrated for transistor channel length up to 100 μm. Highly reproducible transistors with electron mobilities of 1.5 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1 and on/off current ratios up to 105 are obtained. By implementing n‐type and p‐type transistors in one device, a complimentary inverter based solely on SAMFETs is demonstrated for the first time.
Carbon‐Based Nanomaterials for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ku Sook Hee , Lee Minah , Park Chan Beum 
Published: November 2012

AbstractCarbon‐based nanomaterials such as graphene sheets and carbon nanotubes possess unique mechanical, electrical, and optical properties that present new opportunities for tissue engineering, a key field for the development of biological alternatives that repair or replace whole or a portion of tissue. Carbon nanomaterials can also provide a similar microenvironment as like a biological extracellular matrix in terms of chemical composition and physical structure, making them a potential candidate for the development of artificial scaffolds. In this review, we summarize recent research advances in the effects of carbon nanomaterial‐based substrates on cellular behaviors, including cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation into osteo‐ or neural‐ lineages. The development of 3D scaffolds based on carbon nanomaterials (or their composites with polymers and inorganic components) is introduced, and the potential of these constructs in tissue engineering, including toxicity issues, is discussed. Future perspectives and emerging challenges are also highlighted.
Market Development of Biomass Industries
Authors: Altman Ira , Bergtold Jason , Sanders Dwight R. , Johnson Thomas G. 
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACTBiomass‐based agribusiness industries hold significant potential to contribute to environmentally beneficial renewable energy. The authors explore survey evidence on producer preferences for organizational types that will influence market development. Although there are many features of market development that are important, they focus on understanding their organizational choices, the services producers may be willing to provide, and the assets producers currently own. Results indicate mid‐Missouri producers have higher preferences for spot markets compared to the southern Illinois producers; the southern Illinois producers prefer short‐term and long‐term contracts.
Functional independence of Taiwanese children with VACTERL association
Authors: Lin Hsin‐Yi , Lin Shuan‐Pei , Lin Hsiang‐Yu , Hsu Chyong‐Hsin , Chang Jui‐Hsing , Kao Hsin‐An , Hung Han‐Yang , Peng Chun‐Chih , Lee Hung‐Chang , Chen Ming‐Ren , Tsai Jeng‐Daw 
Published: November 2012

AbstractVACTERL association is a non‐random association of birth defects, which may include anomalies of the vertebral column, limbs, kidneys, and heart; anal atresia; tracheoesophageal fistula; and esophageal atresia. The presence of two or more of the defects establishes the diagnosis. The aim of our study is to describe the functional independence of children with VACTERL association and compare the results to unaffected children. These results will enable clinicians to provide more realistic prognostic information to parents and families. We used the WeeFIM questionnaire to assess the functional skills of 23 patients who had been diagnosed with VACTERL association at Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, from June 1994 to June 2009. The total WeeFIM scores and sub‐scores for three domains (self‐care, mobility, and cognition) correlated significantly with age (P < 0.01). The scores were generally within the same range as those of unaffected Chinese children, although our subjects had slightly inferior scores on six items, including bowel, chair transfer, stairs, expression, social interaction, and problem solving. In conclusion, the daily functional skills of Taiwanese children with VACTERL association were similar to those of unaffected children. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
N‐Methylierung von Peptiden und Proteinen: ein wichtiges Element für die Regulation biologischer Funktionen
Authors: Chatterjee Jayanta , Rechenmacher Florian , Kessler Horst 
Published: November 2012

AbstractDie N‐Methylierung ist eine der einfachsten chemischen Modifikationen und kommt häufig in Peptiden und Proteinen von Prokaryoten und höheren Eukaryoten vor. Die Natur hat die N‐Methylierung von Peptiden im Selektionsprozess der Evolution als raffiniertes Element für die Regulation biologischer Funktionen entwickelt, z. B. als Überlebensstrategie durch die Synthese von Antibiotika. Diese kleine strukturelle Veränderung kann nicht nur große Proteinkomplexe mobilisieren (wie im Fall der Methylierung von Histonen), sondern auch enzymatische Aktivitäten durch selektive Erkennung von Protein‐Protein‐Wechselwirkungen inhibieren. Dank neuer neuer Synthesemethoden konnte die N‐Methylierung in den letzten Jahren sowohl zum Modifizieren biologischer Aktivitäten, Selektivitäten und pharmakokinetischer Eigenschaften von Peptiden als auch zur Verbesserung ihrer Pharmakodynamik eingesetzt werden. Wir fassen in diesem Aufsatz den aktuellen Wissensstand über den Einsatz der N‐Methylierung zur Modifizierung biologischer, struktureller und pharmakokinetischer Eigenschaften von Peptiden zusammen.
Determination of dispersion efficiency of cement suspensions by method of centrifugation
Authors: Paravanova Gordana , Hausnerova Berenika , Beltrán‐Prieto Juan Carlos 
Published: November 2012

AbstractIn this research, rheological parameters of cement suspensions modified with different doses of two types of superplasticizers (SPs) were evaluated with an alternative method of centrifugation. It was determined that the critical normal and shear stresses (yield values), and the water/solid ratio alter with the additive dose, the additive type as well and the magnitude of centrifugal forces. The results obtained reveal that the method of centrifugation might serve for determination of dispersing effectiveness of SPs and rheological parameters of suspensions in general. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Edible chitosan/acetylated monoglyceride films for prolonged release of vitamin E and antioxidant activity
Authors: Blanco‐Fernandez Bárbara , Rial‐Hermida Maria Isabel , Alvarez‐Lorenzo Carmen , Concheiro Angel 
Published: November 2012

Abstractα‐Tocopherol‐loaded chitosan films for pharmaceutical applications and food packaging purposes were designed to attain prolonged antioxidant activity. The films were prepared according to an emulsification/casting‐solvent process from dispersions containing chitosan at 1.0 and 1.5% (w/w), combining five different proportions of α‐tocopherol (ranging from 0 to 40% (w/w) with respect to chitosan) and two acetylated monoglyceride (AM) : α‐tocopherol weight ratios (1 : 1 or 4 : 1). AM is a safe, edible, fully hydrogenated palm‐based oil that provided adequate distribution of α‐tocopherol in the films. Humidity at equilibrium, puncture strength and puncture deformation decreased as the content in α‐tocopherol increased; no relevant effect of cross‐linking in a glutaraldehyde atmosphere was observed. Degree of swelling and α‐tocopherol release were tested in hydroalcoholic medium that mimic the polarity of the skin and certain foods. The films behaved as superabsorbent and sustained the release for more than 5 days; after 20 days, the antioxidant activity of α‐tocopherol in the release medium was in some cases still as higher as that of a freshly prepared solution. The greater the content in α‐tocopherol, the slower the release in percentage was. AM exerted a protective effect on α‐tocopherol, but when incorporated at too high proportion made the films to have an oily aspect. In sum, the chitosan films showed suitable features to be used as components of α‐tocopherol sustained release formulations and long‐term antioxidant packaging materials. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Metacarpophalangeal Joint Orientation in Anthropoid Manual Phalanges
Authors: Rein Thomas R. , McCarty Laura A. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractThe proximal articular surface angle of orientation (AO) of proximal phalanges of the hand and foot has been used to infer the locomotor profile of extinct Miocene catarrhines and early hominins. Previous work has found that joint orientation distinguishes quadrupedal from suspensory anthropoids. The purpose of this study is to expand on previous research by examining this feature within and across several primate clades, allowing us to investigate the potential influences of locomotion, substrate usage, hand posture, and phylogeny. We also report AO measurements in human proximal hand phalanges, allowing us to examine human skeletal variation within a wide comparative context. The angle of orientation was measured on manual proximal third phalanges of 21 extant anthropoid species using a Microscribe digitizer. Comparisons were made between locomotor groups within hominoids, platyrrhines, and cercopithecoids. Proximal phalanges of quadrupedal species were characterized by greater dorsal orientation than those of suspensory taxa in hominoids and atelids. In addition, arboreal quadrupeds had greater AO values than terrestrial quadrupeds within the Cercopithecoidea. However, within the terrestrial locomotor group, mean AO values did not differ between palmigrade and digitigrade taxa. Thus, while there appears to be a functional signal related to substrate usage, differences in use of hand postures when moving on the ground were not reflected in proximal joint orientation of the proximal phalanx. Finally, we measured relatively low AO values in human phalanges, which might be related to integration with serially homologous pedal phalanges that are under strong selective pressure related to bipedalism. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.