bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal variations of aridity in Iran using high‐resolution gridded data
Authors: Araghi Alireza , Martinez Christopher J. , Adamowski Jan , Olesen Jørgen E.
Published: March 2018

Aridity is a permanent feature of climate based on long‐term climatic conditions over a region. Climatic indices are reliable tools to explore climate type, and climatologists have proposed various indices to classify climate and investigate the aridity or humidity in any region. In this study, we examined spatiotemporal variations of aridity in Iran during the last six decades from 1954 to 2013, using the de Martonne aridity index (IDM), which is calculated based on precipitation and temperature. Data used in this study were extracted from the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre and the University of Delaware gridded data sets, respectively. Both data sets have global high‐resolution (0.5° × 0.5°) coverage, and temporally span more than a century of data (from 1901). According to the data obtained from these data sets, more than 80% of Iran has an arid and semi‐arid climate (annually), although the spatial pattern of IDM varies throughout the year. Using the Mann–Kendall test showed a negative significant trend in IDM in 20% of Iran's total area in spring, and less than 7% in the other seasons of the year. Overall, it can be concluded that there were no significant trends in aridity for most parts of Iran during the last six decades.
Sub‐seasonal variability of the Belg rains in Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele‐Biratu Endalkachew , Thiaw Wassila M. , Korecha Diriba
Published: March 2018

The February–May rainfall season, locally known as Belg, contributes up to 40% of the annual rainfall over northeastern, central and southwestern Ethiopia. Its contribution exceeds 50% over southern and southeastern Ethiopia. The Belg season is characterized by significant inter‐annual and intra‐seasonal variability. However, there are only a few studies addressing the characteristics of this season. Interactions between extratropical and tropical systems across the Red Sea region play a major role in modulating the rainfall pattern during this season. It is shown in this article that the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) seems to play a major role in the variability of the Belg rains on the sub‐seasonal time scale. The Belg rains are negatively correlated with the NAO index over much of the region, with southern and southeastern Ethiopia exhibiting relatively highest correlation values. NAO rainfall anomaly composites also indicate that the negative (positive) phase of the NAO tends to enhance (suppress) the Belg rains. Two modes of regional circulation patterns that modulate Belg rainfall variability have also been identified in this study. A ridge/trough pattern, featuring two anomalous mid‐ to upper‐level warm anticyclones and one cold cyclonic trough in the region between the northeast Atlantic and the Arabian Peninsula, tends to suppress the Belg rainfall due to reduced tropical–extratropical interactions. In contrast, a tripole structure with two anomalous mid‐ to upper‐level cold cyclonic troughs and one warm anticyclone tends to enhance rainfall during the Belg season of Ethiopia. It is further shown in this article that the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) tends to modulate rainfall during the Belg season.
Impact of SMOFLipid on Pulmonary Alveolar Development in Newborn Guinea Pigs
Authors: Lavoie Jean‐Claude , Mohamed Ibrahim , Nuyt Anne‐Monique , Elremaly Wesam , Rouleau Thérèse
Published: March 2018

Background

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants. In animals, PN leads to alveolar loss following stimulation of apoptosis by oxidative stress (oxidized redox potential). Peroxides and aldehydes generated in PN can induce hypo‐alveolarization. The implication of peroxides, which is reduced by light protection, is demonstrated. The implication of aldehydes from omega‐6 fatty acids oxidation is expected. The hypothesis is that composition and light exposure of PN influences bronchopulmonary dysplasia development. Since SMOFLipid (SMOF) contains a lower amount of omega‐6 fatty acids than Intralipid (IL), the aim was to compare, the impacts of PN compounded with SMOF or IL, photo‐protected or not, on alveolar development.

Materials and Methods

Three‐day‐old Guinea pigs received PN, photo‐protected or not, made with SMOF or IL through a jugular vein catheter. After 4 days, lungs were sampled for determinations of redox potential of glutathione, apoptosis (caspase‐3, caspase‐8, and caspase‐9) and alveolarization index (histology: number of intercepts/mm).

Results

Compared with IL, SMOF induces a greater oxidation of redox potential (˗200 ± 1 versus [vs] ˗205 ± 1 mV), apoptosis (caspase‐3: 0.27 ± 0.04 vs 0.16 ± 0.02; caspase‐9: 0.47 ± 0.03 vs 0.30 ± 0.03), and a lower alveolarization index (27.2 ± 0.8 vs 30.0 ± 0.9). Photo‐protection prevented activation of caspase‐9 and was statistically without effect on redox potential, caspase‐3, and alveolarization index.

Conclusion

In our model, SMOF is pro‐oxidant and induces hypo‐alveolarization following exaggerated apoptosis. These results highlight the need for further studies before introducing SMOFLipid in standard neonatal care.
Morphological and physiological studies on densely branched lateral roots triggered by localized phosphate in Sesbania cannabina
Authors: Funakoshi Yuri , Daimon Hiroyuki , Matsumura Atsushi
Published: March 2018

Densely branched lateral roots (DBLRs) in Sesbania cannabina are formed in response to patchily distributed phosphorus (P) in volcanic soils. Little attention has been paid to morphological and physiological responses of DBLRs. Here, we investigated the relation between plant growth and DBLR development, enzymatic activities involved in P acquisition, and the influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), which contribute to P uptake, to clarify the function of DBLRs. We investigated DBLR development induced by localized application of P fertilizer and we compared the activities of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCase) and acid phosphatase (APase) between DBLRs and non‐DBLRs. Additionally, plants were grown with or without AMF to investigate the effect of AMF colonization on the numbers of DBLRs and plant P uptake, and we compared AMF colonization between DBLRs and non‐DBLR roots. Secondary to quaternary lateral DBLRs were produced after the primary lateral roots passed near P fertilizer. Pi content per DBLR increased as DBLRs developed, promoting higher shoot growth. Under P deficiency, PEPCase and APase activities increased in non‐DBLR, but were significantly lower in DBLRs in the same plants. AMF inoculation changed the root system architecture by significantly decreasing the number of DBLRs, and AMF colonization was lower in DBLRs than in non‐DBLRs. Our results indicate that DBLR formation is a P‐coacquisition strategy of S. cannabina grown in P‐deficient andosolic soil. Roots that form DBLR are clearly different from non‐DBLR roots in morphological and biochemical response and AMF symbiosis.
Continuous human presence without extensive reductions in forest cover over the past 2500 years in an aseasonal Amazonian rainforest
Authors: Kelly Thomas J. , Lawson Ian T. , Roucoux Katherine H. , Baker Timothy R. , Honorio‐Coronado Euridice N. , Jones Timothy D. , Rivas Panduro Santiago
Published: March 2018

The impact of pre‐Columbian indigenous communities on forest cover in Amazonia is highly contentious, particularly for the wettest forests. To contribute to this debate, we studied the vegetation and fire history of a site, Quistococha, which lies within the aseasonal forests of the northern Peruvian Amazon and is associated with independently dated pre‐Columbian and recent human occupation. Paired cores from swamp and lake environments were used to distinguish landscape‐scale changes in vegetation from local‐scale succession. An increased abundance of disturbance‐adapted taxa in the pollen record from the lake, but not swamp, since c. AD 1860 probably reflects extensive deforestation related to the expansion of the nearby city of Iquitos. However, previous persistent occupation of the site by pre‐Columbian indigenous communities, indicated by the charcoal record from the lake site, is not associated with evidence for similarly extensive disturbance of the landscape. The unique features of this site therefore demonstrate that occupation by indigenous communities over thousands of years was not associated with large‐scale deforestation. These results support an emerging model of persistent but localized impacts by pre‐Columbian indigenous communities on aseasonal Amazonian forests.
Holistic properties of foods: a changing paradigm in human nutrition
Authors: Moughan Paul J
Published: March 2018

Traditionally, the study of nutrition has been based on a reductionist approach, reducing a food to its constituent nutrients and then investigating the effects of these nutrients, either singly or together, on metabolism and metabolic outcomes. Nutrients are not consumed in isolation but, rather, are consumed in the form of foods. For this reason, the complex food matrix itself influences nutritional outcomes, which often cannot be fully explained on the basis of the effects of ‘the sum of the nutrients’ alone. Nutrient additivity effects, nutrient interactions, effects of food components other than the classical nutrients, effects of the food matrix for single foods and combinations of foods consumed as meals on the kinetics of nutrient digestion and subsequent metabolism and metabolic outcomes are discussed. A paradigm shift in human nutrition is needed, with more consideration being given to the holistic effects of specific foods and mixtures of foods constituting meals and diets. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Link N as a therapeutic agent for discogenic pain
Authors: Noorwali Hussain , Grant Michael P. , Epure Laura M. , Madiraju Padma , Sampen Hee‐Jeong , Antoniou John , Mwale Fackson
Published: March 2018

Neurotrophins (NTs) are the major contributors of sensory axonal sprouting, neural survival, regulation of nociceptive sensory neurons, inflammatory hyperalgesia, and neuropathic pain. Intervertebral disc (IVD) cells constitutively express NTs. Their expression is upregulated by proinflammatory cytokines present in the IVD during degeneration, which can promote peripheral nerve ingrowth and hyperinnervation, leading to discogenic pain. Currently, there are no targeted therapies that decrease hyperinnervation in degenerative disc disease. Link N is a naturally occurring peptide with a high regenerative potential in the IVD. Therefore, the suitability of Link N as a therapeutic peptide for suppressing NTs, which are known modulators and mediators of pain, was investigated. The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of Link N on NTs expression, nerve growth factor (NGF), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and their cognate receptors TrkA and TrkB as they are directly correlated with symptomatic back pain. Furthermore, the neurotransmitter (substance P) was also evaluated in human annulus fibrosus (AF) cells stimulated with cytokines. Human AF cells isolated from normal IVDs were stimulated with interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in the presence or absence of Link N. NGF release in the media was evaluated by Western blotting. Total RNA was isolated and gene expression was measured using real‐time PCR. Gene expression of NGF, BDNF, TrkA, and TrkB significantly decreased in human disc cells stimulated with either IL‐1β or TNF‐α supplemented with Link N when compared to the cells stimulated only with IL‐1β or TNF‐α. NGF protein expression was also suppressed in AF cells coincubated with Link N and IL‐1β when compared to the cells stimulated only with IL‐1β. Link N can suppress the stimulation of NGF, BDNF, and their receptors TrkA and TrkB in AF cells in an inflammatory milieu. Thus, coupled with previous observations, this suggests that administration of Link N has the potential to not only repair the discs in early stages of the disease but also suppress pain.
Determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water samples by gas chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry using macroporous resin solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Xing Yan , Wang Min , Li Tingting , Fu Yin xu , Wang Xu
Published: March 2018

A method for the determination of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water has been developed. First, we made a solid‐phase extraction column. After this, the parameters affecting the efficacy of the experimental method were optimized, including appropriate selection of a solid‐phase extraction column and cleanup conditions on columns. The separation was achieved by gas chromatography and detection with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry. The method showed satisfactory linearity (R2 > 0.999) over the range assayed (0.01–1 μg/mL), and limits of quantification ranging from 0.0011 to 0.0199 μg/L. The recoveries ranged from 83 to 113%. The relative standard deviation is in the range 0.86–3.1%. The results indicated that this method had high selectivity and precision that was suitable for the simultaneous determination of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water.
Simultaneous determination of glycol ethers and their acetates in cosmetics by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry
Authors: Huang Jinfeng , Li Xiuying , Xun Zhiqing , Du Weifeng , Guo Xindong , Xian Yanping , Lin Senyu , Tan Jianhua
Published: March 2018

A gas chromatography with mass spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous determination of ten kinds of glycol ethers and their acetates in cosmetics. The samples were extracted with methanol/ethyl acetate (80:20, v/v), further treated with vortex and ultrasound, and analyzed by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. The concentration of each analyte was calibrated by the external standard method. Under the optimal conditions, the analytes showed linear relationship in the range of 0.05–25 mg/L with determination coefficients larger than 0.9987. The limits of detection and quantification were in the range of 0.09–0.59 and 0.31–1.95 mg/kg, respectively. The average recoveries of three spiked levels were 80.2–105.4% with intra‐ and interday precisions of 1.1–6.3 and 1.9–6.5%, respectively. Method validation from different labs confirmed the satisfactory recoveries and precisions. This method shows advantages of simple, high sensitivity, and high recovery, which can be applied to the detection of glycol ethers and acetates in cosmetics.
The Effects of Trauma Type and Executive Dysfunction on Symptom Expression of Polyvictimized Youth in Residential Care
Authors: Hodgdon Hilary B. , Liebman Rachel , Martin Lia , Suvak Michael , Beserra Kari , Rosenblum Wendy , Spinazzola Joseph
Published: March 2018

Risk for traumatic sequelae is conveyed directly by risk factors (i.e., exposure to trauma), and via the disruption of developmental competencies. Exposure to caregiver trauma is an especially salient risk factor, as its early and pervasive nature is likely to undermine multiple facets of development, most notably the emergence of cognitive controls (i.e., executive function [EF]). Deficits in EF have been observed among youth exposed to multiple types of trauma and are associated with a range of functional impairments, posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), and behavioral disorders; they represent a mechanism by which the negative impact of caregiver trauma is conveyed. This study included 672 youth in residential placement, and examined the associations between both caregiver and noncaregiver trauma, measured by the Trauma History Profile (THP); executive dysfunction, measured by the Behavioral Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF); PTSS, measured by the UCLA Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Reaction Index (PTSD‐RI); and externalizing and internalizing problems, measured by the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). A structural equation model demonstrated direct associations between caregiver trauma and PTSS, β = .15; noncaregiver trauma and externalizing problems, β = .14; gender and PTSS, β = .26, externalizing problems, β = .12, and internalizing problems, β = .26; and age and externalizing problems, β = −.11. We observed indirect effects via deficits in EF between caregiver trauma and PTSS, β = .04 and externalizing problems, β = .19. Results indicate for screening for executive dysfunction among trauma‐impacted youth is needed, as it represents a critical therapeutic target.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Functional Impairment, and Subjective Distress in World Trade Center Disaster Workers
Authors: Hunnicutt‐Ferguson Kallio , Wyka Katarzyna E. , Peskin Melissa , Cukor Judith , Olden Megan , Difede JoAnn
Published: March 2018

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with functional deficits, poor physical health, and diminished quality of life. Limited research has examined PTSD symptom clusters and their associations with functioning and distress among disaster recovery workers, a population at high risk for PTSD due to potential for repeated trauma. The purpose of this study was to investigate associations between overall PTSD severity, as well as PTSD symptom clusters, and social and occupational functioning and subjective distress in World Trade Center (WTC) disaster workers after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 (9/11). Disaster workers deployed to the site of the attacks completed assessments at three time points over approximately 5 years post‐9/11. Our sample consisted of participants who met criteria for PTSD or subthreshold PTSD at baseline (n = 514), 1‐year (n = 289), and 2‐year follow‐up (n = 179). Adjusted linear regression indicated that Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS)‐rated PTSD severity was positively associated with subjective distress, and deficits in social and occupational functioning, over time, CAPS Criterion F items; βs = .20 to .62, ps < .001. The reexperiencing and avoidance/numbing symptom clusters were associated with increased subjective distress, the avoidance/numbing and hyperarousal clusters were associated with deficits in social functioning, and the reexperiencing and hyperarousal clusters were associated with worse occupational functioning. These associations were consistent across the study period. Findings point to the importance of targeting PTSD symptom clusters associated with specific areas of functional impairment, with the goal of improving global outcomes.
Coupled‐Waveguides for Dispersion Compensation in Semiconductor Lasers
Authors: Bidaux Yves , Kapsalidis Filippos , Jouy Pierre , Beck Mattias , Faist Jérôme
Published: March 2018

A dual waveguide for intracavity dispersion compensation in semiconductor lasers is presented and applied to a short mid‐infrared wavelength quantum cascade laser operating in the first atmospheric window ( 4.6 μm). As a result, stable comb operation on the full multi‐mode dynamical range is achieved in this device. Unlike previously proposed schemes, the dual waveguide approach can be applied to various types of semiconductor lasers and material systems. In particular, it could enable efficient group velocity dispersion compensation at near‐infrared wavelengths where semiconductor materials exhibit a large value of that parameter.
Successful pregnancy outcomes following liver transplantation is predicted by renal function
Authors: Lim Tiong Y. , Gonsalkorala Enoka , Cannon Mary D. , Gabeta Stella , Penna Leonie , Heaton Nigel D. , Heneghan Michael A.
Published: March 2018

Liver transplantation (LT) is a successful treatment for both acute liver failure and end‐stage liver disease. The number of women of reproductive age undergoing LT is increasing. Pregnancy outcomes are favorable, but there is still a lack of prognostic markers. We aimed to identify factors predictive of adverse pregnancy outcomes in LT recipients. An analysis of all pregnancies occurring in LT recipients from 1989 to 2016 at King's College Hospital was performed. Clinical data of 162 conceptions in 93 women were reviewed. Descriptive and regression analyses were done to examine associations between laboratory markers and hepatological scores with pregnancy outcomes of live birth and preterm birth. Median age at LT was 23 years (range, 1‐41 years), with a median age at conception of 30 years (range, 18‐47 years). The live birth rate was 75% (n = 121). Of live births, 35% (n = 39/110 available) were delivered preterm. Preconception creatinine levels were higher in patients who had a preterm birth (85 versus 74 μmol/L; P = 0.008), with a preconception estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <90 mL/minute significantly associated with preterm delivery (P = 0.04). Progressive decline in eGFR predicted outcome, with gestational length declining with increasing chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage: CKD 0‐1 = 39 weeks (median), CKD 2 = 37 weeks, and CKD 3 = 35 weeks. The risk of preterm birth was greatest in women with an eGFR <60 mL/minute (P = 0.004). Moreover, hypertension‐related complications during pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, or eclampsia, were also associated with prematurity (P = 0.01). Women taking steroid‐based immunosuppression had an increased risk of infection during pregnancy or postpartum (15% versus 4%; P = 0.02). In conclusion, although the majority of women have a successful pregnancy outcome after LT, preconception renal function predicts pregnancy outcome and steroids increase risk of infection during pregnancy or postpartum. Liver Transplantation 24 606–615 2018 AASLD.
Reaction‐Induced Phase Separation: A Strategy to Synthesize Azobenzene‐Modified All‐Optical PDLC Devices
Authors: Orofino Antonela B. , Oyanguren Patricia A. , Galante María J.
Published: March 2018

This work presents the synthesis of all‐optical polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) devices, in which the reversible trans–cis photoisomerization of azobenzene groups is used to induce the transition in the liquid crystal (LC) phase, activating the film from an opaque to a translucent state. The appropriate morphology is obtained through a reaction‐induced phase separation strategy using an epoxy–amine matrix modified with azobenzene precursors and the addition of a thermoplastic polymer (polystyrene, PS), which promotes the phase separation and the preferential location of the LC in separated domains. Formulations with liquid crystal content of 50 wt%, 5 wt% of modifier (PS), and 10 wt% of azo‐precursor present a reversible on–off optical response when irradiating the sample with the activation beam at λ = 488 nm. It is demonstrated that the liquid crystal responds according to the expected cooperative movement of orientation with the azobenzene groups. Based on the study of the PDLC devices obtained, its potential technological application can be confirmed.
Partially Fluorinated Multiblock Poly(arylene ether sulfone) Membranes for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Lee Sojeong , Yuk Jinok , Nugraha Adam F. , Shul Yong‐Gun , Park Seok‐Hee , Shin Dongwon , Bae Byungchan
Published: March 2018

Sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone) (SPAES‐F series) membranes, which are partially fluorinated multiblock polymers containing Bisphenol 6F (6F‐BPA), are synthesized. The membranes exhibit less water uptake and higher ion conductivity at similar ion exchange capacity (IEC) values compared to previous SPAES membranes containing identical hydrophilic blocks. This is attributed to the presence of 6F‐BPA in the hydrophobic block, which enhances hydrophobicity and promotes phase separation, as observed through transmission electron microscopy analysis. F4 (IEC = 2.4 meq g−1) shows superior ion conductivity than Nafion NRE212 membrane irrespective of the humidity level. Furthermore, the SPAES electrolyte membrane of 1.5 meq g−1 produces better performance than NRE212, yielding a current density of 488 mA cm−2 at 80 °C, 80% RH, and 0.6 V. In 50% RH at 80 °C, SPAES with 1.5 meq g−1 exhibits a cell resistance and fuel cell performance comparable to those of NRE212; clearly, regulating hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity is crucial for enhanced performance.
Hydrogen‐Bonded Polymer–Small Molecule Complexes with Tunable Mechanical Properties
Authors: Liu Tianqi , Peng Xin , Chen Ya‐Nan , Bai Qing‐Wen , Shang Cong , Zhang Lin , Wang Huiliang
Published: March 2018

A novel type of polymeric material with tunable mechanical properties is fabricated from polymers and small molecules that can form hydrogen‐bonded intermolecular complexes (IMCs). In this work, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)–glycerol hydrogels are first prepared, and then they are dried to form IMCs. The tensile strengths and moduli of IMCs decrease dramatically with increasing glycerol content, while the elongations increase gradually. The mechanical properties are comparable with or even superior to those of common engineering plastics and rubbers. The IMCs with high glycerol content also show excellent flexibility and cold‐resistance at subzero temperatures. Cyclic tensile and stress relaxation tests prove that there is an effective energy dissipation mechanism in IMCs and dynamic mechanical analysis confirms their physical crosslinking nature. FTIR and NMR characterizations prove the existence of hydrogen bonding between glycerol and PVA chains, which suppresses the crystallization of PVA from X‐ray diffraction measurement. These PVA–glycerol IMCs may find potential applications in barrier films, biomedical packaging, etc., in the future.
Unilateral Tongue and Hand Tremor Secondary to a Brainstem Lesion
Authors: AbdelRazek Mahmoud A. , Venna Nagagopal
Published: March 2018

View Supplementary Video 1
Injectable DaxibotulinumtoxinA in Cervical Dystonia: A Phase 2 Dose‐Escalation Multicenter Study
Authors: Jankovic Joseph , Truong Daniel , Patel Atul T. , Brashear Allison , Evatt Marian , Rubio Roman G. , Oh Chad K. , Snyder Daniel , Shears Gill , Comella Cynthia
Published: March 2018

Background

Injectable daxibotulinumtoxinA (an investigational botulinum toxin, RT002) may offer a more prolonged duration of response—and therefore less frequent dosing—than onabotulinumtoxinA.

Objectives

To perform a phase 2, open‐label, dose‐escalation study to assess the efficacy and safety of daxibotulinumtoxinA in cervical dystonia.

Methods

Subjects with moderate‐to‐severe isolated cervical dystonia were enrolled in sequential cohorts to receive a single open‐label, intramuscular dose of injectable daxibotulinumtoxinA of up to 200 U (n = 12), 200–300 U (n = 12), or 300–450 U (n = 13; clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT02706795).

Results

Overall, 33/37 enrollees completed the trial. DaxibotulinumtoxinA was associated with mean reductions in Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (TWSTRS)‐Total score of 16.8 (38%) at week 4, 21.3 (50%) at week 6, and 12.8 (30%) at week 24. The proportion of subjects who were responders (achieved ≥ 20% reduction in TWSTRS‐Total score) was 94% at week 6 and 68% at week 24. The median duration of response (time until > 20% of the improvement in TWSTRS‐Total score achieved at week 4 was no longer retained or re‐treatment was needed) was 25.3 weeks (95% CI, 20.14–26.14 weeks). There were no serious adverse events and there was no apparent dose‐related increase in the incidence of adverse events. The most common treatment‐related adverse events were dysphagia (14%) and injection site erythema (8%).

Conclusions

Preliminary assessments suggest that injectable daxibotulinumtoxinA at doses up to 450 U is well tolerated and may offer prolonged efficacy in the treatment of cervical dystonia. Further studies involving larger numbers of patients are now warranted.
Neurobehavioral features in individuals with Kabuki syndrome
Authors: Caciolo Cristina , Alfieri Paolo , Piccini Giorgia , Digilio Maria Cristina , Lepri Francesca Romana , Tartaglia Marco , Menghini Deny , Vicari Stefano
Published: March 2018

Background

Kabuki syndrome (KS) is a disorder characterized by multiple congenital anomalies affecting development and function of multiple systems. Over the years, researchers have attempted to characterize the neurobehavioral phenotype of KS in cohorts of patients enrolled on the basis of clinical assessment. The availability of molecular testing now allows for recruitment of patients with confirmed KS due to KMT2D and KDM6A.

Methods

The aims of the present study were to investigate the neuropsychological and behavioral profiles of individuals with molecularly confirmed diagnosis of KS, and determine the extent of heterogeneity occurring in these profiles between individuals with clinical diagnosis of KS with and without mutations in KMT2D. We also described performance of our cohort in any neuropsychological domain investigated.

Results

We documented a marked variation in the neuropsychological profile of subjects with clinical diagnosis of KS, even though a relatively homogeneous impairment in linguistic domains and motor skills was observed. No significant difference occurred between mutation‐positive and mutation‐negative groups. Phonological disorders and oromotor dysfunctions were also found, and adaptive functioning was characterized by low performance in daily living and in motor domain.

Conclusion

The present study allowed identification of a distinctive neurobehavioral profile in a cohort of individuals affected by KS with or without molecularly confirmed diagnosis. These findings are expected to help clinicians define more accurately targeted protocols for individualized intervention.
A Novel/Old Modification of the First Zagreb Index
Authors: Ali Akbar , Trinajstić Nenad
Published: March 2018

In the seminal paper [I. Gutman, N. Trinajstić, Chem. Phys. Lett. 1972, 17, 535–538], it was shown that total electron energy (
) of any alternant hydrocarbon depends on the sum of the squares of the degrees of the corresponding molecular graph. Nowadays, this sum is known as the first Zagreb index. In the same paper, another molecular descriptor was proved to influence
, but that descriptor was never restudied explicitly. We call this descriptor as modified first Zagreb connection index and denote it by
. In this paper, chemical applicability of the molecular descriptor
is tested for the octane isomers. Some basic properties of
are also established here. Furthermore, the alkanes with maximum and minimum
values are determined from the class of all alkanes having fixed number of carbon atoms.
Contragenic functions on spheroidal domains
Authors: García‐Ancona Raybel , Morais Joao , Porter R. Michael
Published: March 2018

We construct bases of polynomials for the spaces of square‐integrable harmonic functions that are orthogonal to the monogenic and antimonogenic
‐valued functions defined in a prolate or oblate spheroid.
Bioavailability of Isothiocyanates From Broccoli Sprouts in Protein, Lipid, and Fiber Gels
Authors: Oliviero Teresa , Lamers Simone , Capuano Edoardo , Dekker Matthijs , Verkerk Ruud
Published: March 2018

Scope

Optimization of bioavailability of dietary bioactive health‐beneficial compounds is as important as increasing their concentration in foods. The aim of this study is to explore the change in bioavailability of isothiocyanates (ITCs) in broccoli sprouts incorporated in protein, fiber, and lipid gels.

Methods and results

Five participants took part in a cross‐over study and collected timed urine samples up to 24 h after consumption of proteins, dietary fibers, and lipid gels containing broccoli sprouts powder. Sulforaphane and iberin metabolites were determined in the urine samples. Samples in which sulforaphane and iberin were preformed by myrosinase led to a higher bioavailability of those compounds. Compared to the control broccoli sprout, incorporation of sprouts in gels led to lower bioavailability for preformed sulforaphane and iberin (although for sulforaphane the lower bioavailability was not significantly different) whereas for the gels rich in their precursors, glucoraphanin and glucoiberin, the opposite trend was observed (although not significantly different).

Conclusion

This explorative study suggests that ITCs bioavailability can be modulated by food structure and composition and further and deeper investigations are needed to develop food products that lead to an optimized ITCs bioavailability.
Plasma ANGPTL‐4 is Associated with Obesity and Glucose Tolerance: Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Findings
Authors: Barja‐Fernandez Silvia , Moreno‐Navarrete José María , Folgueira Cintia , Xifra Gemma , Sabater Mònica , Castelao Cecilia , FernØ Johan , Leis Rosaura , Diéguez Carlos , Casanueva Felipe F. , Ricart Wifredo , Seoane Luisa M. , Fernandez‐Real José Manuel , Nogueiras Rubén
Published: March 2018

Scope

Angiopoietin‐like protein 4 (ANGPTL‐4) regulates plasma lipoprotein levels, but its relevance in human obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is largely unknown. We aim to investigate the regulation of circulating ANGPTL‐4 levels in obesity, T2D, and after changes in body weight.

Methods and results

Circulating ANGPTL‐4 levels were measured in two different cohorts. First, in a cross‐sectional study, we evaluated ANGPTL‐4 levels in lean and obese patients with normoglycemia or with altered glucose tolerance (AGT; n = 282). Second, in a longitudinal intervention study, 51 obese participants were evaluated. A hypocaloric diet was prescribed, with follow‐up 2 years later. ANGPTL‐4 levels were significantly increased in obese patients with AGT compared to lean participants. Moreover, ANGPTL‐4 was positively correlated with BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, HbA1c, HOMA‐IR, fasting triglycerides, and with inflammatory markers. Participants gaining weight after the follow‐up showed increased ANGPTL‐4 levels in parallel to increased BMI, fat mass, and fasting glucose, while ANGPTL‐4 levels were reduced in participants losing weight.

Conclusion

Our data support a relevant role of ANGPTL‐4 in human obesity and its involvement in long‐term body weight changes.
Development of a measure for evaluating lesion‐wise performance of CAD algorithms in the context of mpMRI detection of prostate cancer
Authors: Leng Ethan , Spilseth Benjamin , Zhang Lin , Jin Jin , Koopmeiners Joseph S. , Metzger Gregory J.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Computer‐aided detection/diagnosis (CAD) of prostate cancer (PCa) on multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) is an active area of research. In the literature, the performance of predictive models trained to detect PCa on mpMRI has typically been reported in terms of voxel‐wise measures such as sensitivity and specificity and/or area under the receiver operating curve (AUC). However, it is unclear whether models that score higher by these measures are actually superior. Here, we propose a novel method for lesion identification as well as novel measures that assess the quality of the detected lesions.

Methods

A total of 46 axial MRI slices of interest from 34 patients and the associated histopathologic ground truths were used to develop and to characterize the proposed measures. The proposed lesion‐wise score sℓ is based on the Jaccard similarity index with modifications that emphasize the overlap and colocalization of predicted lesions with ground truth lesions. Thresholding of sℓ allowed for the sensitivity and specificity of lesion detection to be assessed, while the proposed lesion‐summary score sσ is a weighted average of sℓs that provides a single summary statistic of lesion detection performance. The proposed measures were used to compare the lesion detection performance of a predictive model vs that of a radiologist on the same data set. The measures were also used to evaluate the degree to which viewing the cancer prediction improved diagnostic accuracy.

Results

The lesion‐wise score qualitatively reflected the goodness of predicted lesions over a wide range of values (sℓ = 0.1 to sℓ = 0.8) and was found to encompass a larger range of values than the Dice coefficient did over the same range of prediction qualities (0–0.9 vs 0–0.75). The lesion‐summary score was shown to vary linearly with voxel‐wise sensitivity and quadratically with voxel‐wise specificity and correlated well with voxel‐wise AUC (ρ = 0.68) and the Dice coefficient (ρ = 0.88). Radiologist performance was found to be significantly improved after viewing the model‐generated cancer prediction maps as quantified by both sσ (P = 0.01) and DSC (P = 0.04), with improvements in both lesion detection sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusion

The proposed measures allow for the assessment of lesion detection performance, which is most relevant in a clinical setting and would not be possible to do with voxel‐wise measures alone.
Validation of GPU‐accelerated superposition–convolution dose computations for the Small Animal Radiation Research Platform
Authors: Cho Nathan , Tsiamas Panagiotis , Velarde Esteban , Tryggestad Erik , Jacques Robert , Berbeco Ross , McNutt Todd , Kazanzides Peter , Wong John
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The Small Animal Radiation Research Platform (SARRP) has been developed for conformal microirradiation with on‐board cone beam CT (CBCT) guidance. The graphics processing unit (GPU)‐accelerated Superposition–Convolution (SC) method for dose computation has been integrated into the treatment planning system (TPS) for SARRP. This paper describes the validation of the SC method for the kilovoltage energy by comparing with EBT2 film measurements and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations.

Methods

MC data were simulated by EGSnrc code with 3 × 108–1.5 × 109 histories, while 21 photon energy bins were used to model the 220 kVp x‐rays in the SC method. Various types of phantoms including plastic water, cork, graphite, and aluminum were used to encompass the range of densities of mouse organs. For the comparison, percentage depth dose (PDD) of SC, MC, and film measurements were analyzed. Cross beam (x,y) dosimetric profiles of SC and film measurements are also presented. Correction factors (CFz) to convert SC to MC dose‐to‐medium are derived from the SC and MC simulations in homogeneous phantoms of aluminum and graphite to improve the estimation.

Results

The SC method produces dose values that are within 5% of film measurements and MC simulations in the flat regions of the profile. The dose is less accurate at the edges, due to factors such as geometric uncertainties of film placement and difference in dose calculation grids.

Conclusion

The GPU‐accelerated Superposition–Convolution dose computation method was successfully validated with EBT2 film measurements and MC calculations. The SC method offers much faster computation speed than MC and provides calculations of both dose‐to‐water in medium and dose‐to‐medium in medium.
Volumetric imaging of the developing prepubertal mouse uterine epithelium using light sheet microscopy
Authors: Vue Zer , Gonzalez Gabriel , Stewart C. Allison , Mehra Shyamin , Behringer Richard R.
Published: March 2018

Endometrial or uterine glands secrete substances essential for uterine receptivity to the embryo, implantation, conceptus survival, and growth. Adenogenesis is the process of gland formation within the stroma of the uterus. In the mouse, uterine gland formation initiates at postnatal day (P) 5. Uterine gland morphology is poorly understood because it is primarily based on two‐dimensional (2D) histology. To more fully describe uterine gland morphogenesis, we generated three‐dimensional (3D) models of postnatal uterine glands from P0 to P21, based on volumetric imaging using light sheet microscopy. At birth (P0), there were no glands. At P8, we found bud‐ and teardrop‐shaped epithelial invaginations. By P11, the forming glands were elongated epithelial tubes. By P21, the elongated tubes had a sinuous morphology. These morphologies are homogeneously distributed along the anterior–posterior axis of the uterus. To facilitate uterine gland analyses, we propose a novel 3D staging system of uterine gland morphology during development in the prepubertal mouse. We define five uterine gland stages: Stage 1: bud; Stage 2: teardrop; Stage 3: elongated; Stage 4: sinuous; and Stage 5: primary branches. This staging system provides a standardized key to assess and quantify prepubertal uterine gland morphology that can be used for studies of uterine gland development and pathology. In addition, our studies suggest that gland formation initiation occurs during P8 and P11. However, between P11 and P21 gland formation initiation stops and all glands elongate and become sinuous. We also found that the mesometrial epithelium develops a unique morphology we term the uterine rail.
Pulmonary artery imaging under free‐breathing using golden‐angle radial bSSFP MRI: a proof of concept
Authors: Fyrdahl Alexander , Vargas Paris Roberto , Nyrén Sven , Holst Karen , Ugander Martin , Lindholm Peter , Sigfridsson Andreas
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of an improved motion and flow robust methodology for imaging the pulmonary vasculature using non‐contrast‐enhanced, free‐breathing, golden‐angle radial MRI.

Methods

Healthy volunteers (n = 10, age 46 ± 11 years, 50% female) and patients (n = 2, ages 27 and 84, both female) were imaged at 1.5 T using a Cartesian and golden‐angle radial 2D balanced SSFP pulse sequence. The acquisitions were made under free breathing without contrast agent enhancement. The radial acquisitions were reconstructed at 3 temporal footprints. All series were scored from 1 to 5 for perceived diagnostic quality, artifact level, and vessel sharpness in multiple anatomical locations. In addition, vessel sharpness and blood‐to‐blood clot contrast were measured.

Results

Quantitative measurements showed higher vessel sharpness for golden‐angle radial (n = 76, 0.79 ± 0.11 versus 0.71 ± 0.16, p < .05). Blood‐to‐blood clot contrast was found to be 23% higher in golden‐angle radial in the 2 patients. At comparable temporal footprints, golden‐angle radial was scored higher for diagnostic quality (mean ± SD, 2.3 ± 0.7 versus 2.2 ± 0.6, p < .01) and vessel sharpness (2.2 ± 0.8 versus 2.1 ± 0.5, p < .01), whereas the artifact level did not differ (3.0 ± 0.9 versus 3.0 ± 1.0, p = .80). The ability to retrospectively choose a temporal resolution and perform sliding‐window reconstructions was demonstrated in patients.

Conclusion

In pulmonary artery imaging, the motion and flow robustness of a radial trajectory does both improve image quality over Cartesian trajectory in healthy volunteers, and allows for flexible selection of temporal footprints and the ability to perform real‐time sliding window reconstructions, which could potentially provide further diagnostic insight.
The usefulness of electrodiagnostic studies in the diagnosis and management of neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Lindstrom Heather , Ashworth Nigel L.
Published: March 2018

Introduction: This study seeks to evaluate the usefulness of electrodiagnostic (EDX) studies in terms of the patient's diagnosis and subsequent management and to identify patient groups in which EDX is particularly useful. Methods: The records of new patients referred to a single tertiary hospital EDX laboratory during 1 calendar year were reviewed to determine whether results of EDX studies led to a changed diagnosis and/or management plan. Logistic regression was used to determine whether any factors were associated with changed diagnosis or management. Results: Results of EDX studies led to a change in diagnosis and a confirmation in diagnosis in 51.5% and 46.5% of the cases, respectively. Results of EDX studies led to a change in the management plan in 63.4% of all cases. The diagnosis and management plan were more likely to be changed in older patients and patients referred in hospital. Discussion: EDX studies seem useful for confirming or changing the diagnosis and in guiding management in patients with suspected neuromuscular disorders. Muscle Nerve 58: 191–196, 2018
Dynamic responses of unsaturated half‐space soil to a moving harmonic rectangular load
Authors: Lu Zheng , Fang Ran , Yao Hailin , Dong Cheng , Xian Shaohua
Published: March 2018

The problem of the dynamic responses of a semi‐infinite unsaturated poroelastic medium subjected to a moving rectangular load is investigated analytical/numerically. The dynamic governing equations are obtained with consideration of the compressibility of solid grain and pore fluid, inertial coupling, and viscous drag as well as capillary pressure in the unsaturated soil, and they can be easily degraded to the complete Biot's theory. Using the Fourier transform, the general solution for the equations is derived in the transformed domain, and then a corresponding boundary value problem is formulated. By introducing fast Fourier transform algorithm, the unsaturated soil vertical displacements, effective stresses, and pore pressures induced by moving load are computed, and some of the calculated results are compared with those for the degenerated solution of saturated soils and confirmed. The influences of the saturation, the load speed, and excitation frequency on the response of the unsaturated half‐space soil are investigated. The numerical results reveal that the effects of these parameters on the dynamic response of the unsaturated soil are significant.
Reducing Blood Glucose Testing Is Safe in Patients Receiving Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Ratliff Ashley , Nishnick Amy , DeChicco Robert , Lopez Rocio
Published: March 2018

Background

Hyperglycemia is a common adverse event associated with parenteral nutrition (PN); however, there is no consensus on optimal glucose monitoring. Unnecessary point‐of‐care (POC) blood glucose (BG) testing can result in additional healthcare cost and discomfort to the patient. This study's aim was to determine whether decreasing the frequency of POC glucose testing in patients receiving PN can reduce costs without increasing the frequency of glycemic events.

Methods

This study examined adult, noncritically ill patients who require PN and are managed by a nutrition support team. Guidelines were developed for the initiation and discontinuation of POC BG monitoring. Pre‐intervention and post‐intervention data were collected for each patient, including daily POC glucose and glucose from the basic metabolic panel (BMP). Equivalency testing was completed for each group.

Results

Data were collected on 171 subjects (86 preguideline, 85 postguideline). The total number of POC tests per patient was significantly less in the postintervention period (median 23.0 vs 25.5; P = .011), as well as the average number of POC tests per patient per day (2.9 ± 1.4 vs 3.6 ± 1.4; P < .001). The average BMP glucose (126 mg/dL preintervention vs 129 mg/dL postintervention; P = .005) and the number of hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic events per 100 tests (both P < .001) were equivalent.

Conclusions

Implementation of new guidelines resulted in decreased frequency of POC BG tests by 20%, which may impact cost savings and patient comfort in hospitalized patients receiving PN without increasing average BG level or glycemic events.