bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The predictive value of a preoperative systemic immune‐inflammation index and prognostic nutritional index in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hongdian , Shang Xiaobin , Ren Peng , Gong Lei , Ahmed Ashique , Ma Zhao , Ma Rong , Wu Xianxian , Xiao Xiangming , Jiang Hongjing , Tang Peng , Yu Zhentao
Published: August 2018

Growing evidence indicates that systemic inflammation response and malnutrition status are correlated with survival in certain types of solid tumors. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between the systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and overall survival (OS) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after esophagectomy. A consecutive series of 655 patients with resected ESCC who underwent esophagectomy were enrolled in the retrospective study. The preoperative SII was defined as platelet × neutrophil/lymphocyte counts. The PNI was calculated as albumin concentration (g/L) + 5 × total lymphocyte count (109/L). The optimal cut‐off values of SII, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and PNI were determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan–Meier method with a log‐rank test, followed by a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model. A high SII was significantly related to tumor size, histological type, invasion depth, and TNM stage (p < 0.05). A low PNI was significantly associated with age, tumor size, invasion depth, lymph node metastasis, and TNM stage (p < 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed that age, smoking history, tumor size, invasion depth, lymph node metastasis, SII, NLR, PLR, and PNI were predictors of OS (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified age (p = 0.041), tumor size (p = 0.016), invasion depth (p < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), SII (p = 0.033), and PNI (p = 0.022) as independent prognostic factors correlated with OS. There was a significant inverse relationship between the SII and PNI (r = 0.309; p < 0.001). The predictive value increased when the SII and PNI were considered in combination. Our results demonstrate that the preoperative high SII and low PNI are powerful indicators of aggressive biology and poor prognosis for patients with ESCC. The combination of SII and PNI can enhance the accuracy of prognosis.
Characterization of ulcerative colitis‐associated constipation syndrome (proximal constipation)
Authors: James Sally L , van Langenberg Daniel R , Taylor Kirstin M , Gibson Peter R
Published: August 2018

Background

The syndrome of constipation with other abdominal symptoms (“proximal constipation”) in ulcerative colitis (UC) is commonly recognized by practitioners but is poorly described, with no recognized definition and little understanding with regard to prevalence and effect of therapies on disease outcomes. This study aimed to address these issues in a cross‐sectional, consecutive series of patients with UC.

Methods

A working definition of proximal constipation was established. Consecutive patients were recruited, and their disease activity, recent medications, and investigations plus abdominal symptoms were assessed at a study visit. Relevant clinical data were also extracted from medical records.

Results

Of 125 patients with UC, (mean age 47, range 14–84 years, 61 male), 58 (46%) fulfilled the definition of proximal constipation. The main symptoms were reduced stool frequency (69%), hard stools (43%), abdominal pain (40%), excessive flatus (29%), straining (24%), and sensation of incomplete emptying (14%). Proximal constipation was associated with female gender (OR 3.45 [1.45–8.24]), left‐sided (OR 2.84 [1.14–7.11]) and concurrently active disease (OR 5.56 [1.96–16.67]), but not age, disease duration or therapy. A total of 88% had an increase in anti‐inflammatory therapy, with the use of laxatives or fiber supplements in 63% compared with 1.4% of those without proximal constipation.

Conclusions

Proximal constipation is common, and its risk increases in active and distal disease, especially in women. Validation of its definition and evaluation of therapeutic strategies are needed. A new term “ulcerative colitis‐associated constipation syndrome” is proposed to more accurately depict its nature.
Response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectum cancer: Texture analysis of dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Zou Hai‐hua , Yu Jing , Wei Yun , Wu Jiang‐fen , Xu Qing
Published: August 2018

Background

Tumor heterogeneity can be assessed by texture analysis (TA). TA has been applied using diffusion‐weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient maps to predict pathological responses to preoperative chemoradiation therapy (CRT) in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).

Purpose

To evaluate the texture parameters obtained from K
trans maps derived from dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI for predicting pathological responses to preoperative CRT for LARCs.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Altogether, 83 patients (26 women, 57 men) with rectal cancer met the inclusion criteria.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T/T1‐weighted DCE‐MRI sequence.

Assessment

After CRT, each tumor was assessed by a pathologist who assigned a tumor regression grade (TRG), thereby identifying pathologically complete responders (pCR; TRG 1) and good responders (GR; TRG1 + TRG2). TA was then applied to the DCE‐MRI K
trans maps. The K
trans value, several TA parameters, and tumor volumes were calculated.

Statistical Tests

The Shapiro–Wilk test was used to verify that the data had normal distribution. Results of parameters measured before and after CRT were compared using paired‐sample t‐tests. Value changes of each parameter in the combined pCR/GR group were compared using independent sample t‐tests. Receiver operating characteristic curves and areas under the curve (AUC) were calculated to assess the diagnostic performance of each parameter related to CRT effectiveness.

Results

There were 15 pCR (16.9%) and 21 GR (25.3%) patients. Tumor volume, mean K
trans, entropy, and correlation decreased and energy values increased significantly in these groups compared with those of the non‐PCR and non‐GR groups. ΔCorrelation (Δcorrelation = postcorrelation – precorrelation) was found to be a valuable parameter for identifying pCR/GR patients (AUC 0.895, sensitivity 86.7%, specificity 81.8%).

Data Conclusion

TA parameters from the DCE‐MRI K
trans map can predict the efficacy of CRT for treating LARCs. Also, Δcorrelation may be useful for identifying patients who will be responsive to CRT.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:885–893.
Novel vacuum stable ketone‐based matrices for high spatial resolution MALDI imaging mass spectrometry
Authors: Yang Junhai , Norris Jeremy L. , Caprioli Richard
Published: August 2018

We describe the use of aromatic ketones and cinnamyl ketones that have high vacuum stability for analyzing tissue sections using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry. Specifically, the matrix, (E)‐4‐(2,5‐dihydroxyphenyl)but‐3‐en‐2‐one (2,5‐cDHA) provides high sensitivity and high vacuum stability while producing small size crystals (1‐2 μm). A high throughput and highly reproducible sample preparation method was developed for these matrices that first involves using an organic spray solution for small matrix crystal seeding followed by spraying of the matrix in a 30% acetonitrile/70% water solution on the tissue surface to obtain a homogeneous coating of small crystals, suitable for high spatial resolution imaging.
Droplet‐digital polymerase chain reaction for detection of clinical hepatitis B virus DNA samples
Authors: Yang Deping , Hu Tingting , Wu Xuan , Li Ke , Zhong Qi , Liu Weiwei
Published: August 2018

This study aimed to establish a quantitative droplet‐digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) detection system for clinical hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in samples from patients with HBV infection with the aim of monitoring fluctuations and planning future antiviral treatments. Primers and probes for the conserved region of HBV DNA sequence (GenBank: AB554017.1) were designed by sequence alignment with the HBV DNA sequence in GenBank. The PUC57 plasmid containing the gene fragment was then synthesized according to the fragment amplified by the primer. Linear DNA templates were obtained by digestion of the PUC57 plasmid with EcoRI. Primer specificity was verified by electrophoresis and sequencing, and the plasmid was used to verify the performance of ddPCR. Serum levels of HBV DNA were then detected in 103 HBV patients by ddPCR and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and the consistency of the two methods was compared. The accuracy of the ddPCR assays showed good linear correlation (R2 = 0.9952). The ddPCR coefficient of variance (CV) for intrarun replicates reached 2.0%, and the CV value for inter‐run replicates reached 3.6%. The ddPCR could detect as little as one copy of the template, as demonstrated by continuous dilution. This assay system provided a novel and specific platform with a linear range of detection from 1 to 105 copies/µL. Serum samples were collected from 103 HBV patients, and HBV DNA levels quantiﬁed by ddPCR and qPCR showed good concordance based on the Bland‐Altman analysis. The 95% limits of agreement were log10: 0.29 ± 0.55 copies/μL. Our ﬁndings demonstrated that ddPCR can improve the detection level of nucleic acid and quantify the nucleic acid concentration, which is suitable for the clinical detection of HBV DNA.
Warm season nocturnal rainfall over the eastern periphery of the Tibetan Plateau and its relationship with rainfall events in adjacent regions
Authors: Chen Haoming , Li Jian , Yu Rucong
Published: August 2018

Hourly observational records are used to investigate the distinct nocturnal rainfall and related convection activities over the eastern periphery of the Tibetan Plateau (EPTP). The results show that rainfall events over the EPTP are characterized by frequent moderate rainfall with long durations, which differs from both the eastern Tibetan Plateau (TP_E) and the west Sichuan Basin (SCB_W). Although the nocturnal rainfall dominates the warm season rainfall over the EPTP and its adjacent slopes, the midnight rainfall peak is more evident over the slope and basin regions, whereas over the TP_E, the rainfall intensity tends to peak in the late afternoon. An eastwards phase delay is found from the TP_E to the downstream EPTP regions, and the signal is more evident in the intense long‐duration rainfall events. To demonstrate the regional characteristics of the rainfall processes over the EPTP and its adjacent areas, a regional rainfall event (RRE) method is applied to consider the spatiotemporal evolution of the rainfall processes. The intense long‐duration RREs over the EPTP are selected and classified into two categories, with one related to the early stage rainfall systems in the TP region (RRE_with_TP) and the other not related to the TP rainfall systems (RRE_without_TP). The RRE_with_TP cases are probably related to the propagation of rainfall systems from the plateau. By analysing the convective activity derived from the FY‐2 geostationary satellites, evidence of the close relationship between the RRE_with_TP cases and the eastwards propagation of the convective systems that develop over the TP in the late afternoon is shown, whereas the RRE_without_TP cases seem to be more locally initialized or caused by rainfall systems from eastern regions. These results provide more detailed metrics to evaluate model performances over the EPTP region where excessive rainfall has been a long‐standing problem in the simulation of the East Asian climate.
Dominant modes of wintertime precipitation variability in northwest China and the association with circulation anomalies and sea surface temperature
Authors: Yin Xiaoxue , Zhou Lian‐Tong
Published: August 2018

The dominant modes wintertime precipitation in northwest China (NWC) and the possible causes are investigated during the period 1961–2013 in the inter‐annual timescale, as winter climate condition could greatly affect local economic development and people's lives. The analysis of this study is divided into three parts. First, the spatiotemporal variability of dominant modes wintertime precipitation is described by an empirical orthogonal function (EOF) method. The atmospheric circulation anomalies associated with wintertime precipitation variations are then discussed through regression and composite analysis. Third, the relationships between wintertime precipitation and sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies are investigated. The results indicate that the leading mode (EOF1) shows a uniform sign in the entire region, and the second mode (EOF2) exhibits a zonal‐dipole pattern; they account for 25.6 and 15.7% of the total variance, respectively. The atmospheric circulation anomalies EOF1 closely related to is the Eurasian (EU) teleconnection pattern. Years when a negative phase of EU pattern occurs tend to be rainy with anomalous southerly transporting water vapour from low‐latitudes and profound ascending motion anomalies. Atmospheric circulation anomalies associated with the second mode resemble the Arctic Oscillation (AO) pattern. AO pattern influences EOF2 precipitation variations through the anomalous circulations over Mongolia and western Europe. The sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies related to EOF1 show an El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) like pattern, which may modulate the wintertime precipitation mode through the western North Pacific anticyclone. The EOF2 mode has a close relationship with a tripole SST anomaly mode in the North Atlantic Ocean. This SST pattern is likely to influence wintertime precipitation by modulating the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). The results of this study could be beneficial for wintertime precipitation prediction and the decrease of economic losses in NWC and may also provide useful references for other areas with similar climatic features such as the central Asia.
Modulation of spring northern tropical Atlantic sea surface temperature on the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation–East Asian summer monsoon connection
Authors: Chen Shangfeng , Wu Renguang , Chen Wen
Published: August 2018

El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has a large impact on the succeeding East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) variability via modulating the western North Pacific (WNP) anticyclonic anomaly. This study reveals that spring northern tropical Atlantic (NTA) sea surface temperature (SST) has a prominent modulation of the ENSO–EASM relationship. When the spring NTA SST anomalies are of the same sign as the preceding winter equatorial central‐eastern Pacific SST anomalies, the ENSO–EASM connection is strong. The connection between ENSO and EASM becomes very weak when the spring NTA and preceding winter equatorial central‐eastern Pacific SST anomalies are opposite. This result implies that it is crucial to consider the spring NTA SST status when forecasting the EASM based on the winter equatorial central‐eastern Pacific SST. The modulation of spring NTA SST anomalies on the ENSO–EASM relation is through its destructive or constructive contribution to the anomalous anticyclone over the WNP. When the spring NTA SST anomalies and the equatorial central‐eastern Pacific SST anomalies have the same (opposite) signs, the summer WNP anticyclonic anomaly generated by the ENSO was largely enhanced (weakened) by the spring NTA SST‐generated atmospheric anomalies, which result in strong (weak) influence of ENSO on the EASM variability.
Early Hypophosphatemia in High‐Risk Preterm Infants: Efficacy and Safety of Sodium Glycerophosphate From First Day on Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Bustos Lozano Gerardo , Soriano‐Ramos María , Pinilla Martín María Teresa , Chumillas Calzada Silvia , García Soria Carmen Elia , Pallás‐Alonso Carmen Rosa
Published: August 2018

Background

Early hypophosphatemia is common in premature infants ≤1250 g. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency and severity of hypophosphatemia after sodium glycerophosphate supplementation from first day of life in parenteral nutrition and to address the safety of this practice.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of infants ≤1250 g birth weight born in a tertiary‐care level neonatal intensive care unit and supplied with sodium glycerophosphate from the first day of life. Primary outcome was the presence of hypophosphatemia (<4 mg/dL) on the first week. Data were compared with our 2014 prospective subcohort of infants ≤1250 g receiving phosphate after 48 hours of life and morbidity with that of our 2016 retrospective cohort of ≤1250 g.

Results

Fifty‐four neonates were included. The frequency of hypophosphatemia was 29.6%. Only 1 patient presented hypophosphatemia <2 mg/dL. Mild hypokalemia was found in 8 patients (50%). No cases of hypernatremia were observed. Patients with hypophosphatemia had significantly lower gestational age (27.4 vs 28.8 weeks, P = .032) and lower z‐score birth weight (−1.68 vs −0.47; P = .001). When compared with the 2014 subcohort, we found a lower frequency of hypophosphatemia (29.6% vs 69.2%; P = .008) and a lower rate of samples with hypophosphatemia (20.4% vs 51.4%; P = .0002) and critical hypophosphatemia (0.68% vs 11.4%, P = .0005). No differences were found in morbidity or mortality.

Conclusions

Sodium glycerophosphate supplementation in parenteral nutrition from the first day of life significantly decreased the frequency of hypophosphatemia. No adverse events were reported.
Innate lymphoid cells are present in gingivitis and periodontitis
Authors: Kindstedt Elin , Koskinen Holm Cecilia , Palmqvist Py , Sjöström Mats , Lejon Kristina , Lundberg Pernilla
Published: August 2018

Background

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are the most recently identified leukocytes of the immune system and these cells are increasingly acknowledged to play important roles in host defence and tissue repair. ILCs are also contributors of inflammatory diseases such as asthma and colitis. We analyzed the presence and relative proportions of the different ILC subsets (ILC1, ILC2 and ILC3) in gingivitis and periodontitis. Further, we investigated if ILCs express receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand (RANKL), a cytokine crucial for osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption.

Methods

We collected gingivitis and periodontitis soft tissue and characterized ILC subsets including RANKL expression in single‐cell suspensions using flow cytometry.

Results

ILCs were detected both in gingivitis and periodontitis. The majority of ILCs, in both conditions, were ILC1s. Furthermore, RANKL expression was detected on a fraction of the ILC1s.

Conclusions

Our discovery of the presence of ILCs both in gingivitis and periodontitis and concomitant expression of RANKL on a fraction of the ILC1 population suggest that these cells may be of importance in periodontal disease. In addition, our findings provide a new insight into the field of oral immunology.
Solid‐phase extraction of drugs with cuttlefish bone powder as a sorbent
Authors: Khazri Hassen , Ghorbel‐Abid Ibtissem , Debrauwer Laurent , Kalfat Rafik , Trabelsi‐Ayadi Malika
Published: August 2018

We investigated cuttlefish bone powder for the solid‐phase extraction of naproxen, ibuprofen, and carbamazepine. The basic principles controlling the extraction are presented to aid in the choice of the nature and quantity of the extracting phase according to the sample matrix and the solute properties, based on the mechanisms of phase retention. Their retention mechanism is based on hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. The results show a significant recovery rate for the three drugs, selectivity, and low cost. The method has successfully reduced the amount of tested pharmaceuticals with recoveries >87% at pH 4.
Vocal Hygiene Education Program Reduces Surgical Interventions for Benign Vocal Fold Lesions: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hosoya Makoto , Kobayashi Rika , Ishii Toyota , Senarita Masamitsu , Kuroda Hiroyuki , Misawa Hayato , Tanaka Fujinobu , Takiguchi Tetsuya , Tashiro Masatsugu , Masuda Sawako , Hashimoto Sho , Goto Fumiyuki , Minami Shujiro , Yamamoto Nobuko , Nagai Ryoto , Sayama Akiko , Wakabayashi Takeshi , Toshikuni Keitaro , Ueha Rumi , Fujimaki Yoko , Takazawa Mihiro , Sekimoto Sotaro , Itoh Kenji , Nito Takaharu , Kada Akiko , Tsunoda Koichi
Published: August 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Vocal fold polyps and nodules are common benign laryngeal lesions. Currently, the Japanese health insurance system covers surgical interventions. However, the establishment of more cost‐effective conservative methods is required, because healthcare costs are viewed as a major concern, and the government and taxpayers are demanding more economical, effective treatments. In this situation, more suitable vocal hygiene education may be important for the success of cost‐effective conservative treatment. In this study, we developed a novel reinforced vocal hygiene education program and compared the results of this program with those of previous methods of teaching vocal hygiene.

Study Design

Multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Patients who visited a National Hospital Organization (NHO) hospital for the surgical indication of hoarseness were included in the study. Before undergoing surgery, 200 patients with benign vocal fold lesions (vocal fold polyps/nodules) were enrolled and randomly allocated to the NHO‐style vocal hygiene educational program (intervention group) or control education program (control group). Two months after enrollment, the patients in both groups underwent laryngeal fiberscopic examinations to determine whether the benign lesions had resolved or whether surgery was indicated for the vocal fold polyps/nodules.

Results

After 2 months, in the intervention group, the proportion of lesion resolution (61.3%) was significantly greater than that in the control group (26.3%) (P < .001, Fisher exact test).

Conclusions

Our results clearly indicate that the quality and features of the education program could affect the outcome of the intervention. We found that a reinforced vocal hygiene education program increased the rate of the resolution of benign vocal fold polyps and nodules in a multicenter randomized clinical trial.

Level of Evidence

1b Laryngoscope, 2593–2599, 2018
Organo‐Solubility Carbazole‐Containing Polyimides with Tunable Memory Characteristics Based on Different Dianhydride Moieties
Authors: Yang Yanhua , Jin Pan , Ding Shijin , Chu Yueying , Shen Yingzhong
Published: August 2018

A novel asymmetric carbazole‐based diamine (9‐((4′‐(9H‐carbazolyl)‐[1,1′‐biphenyl])methyl)‐3,6‐diaminocarbazole (BCDA‐CBZ)) is synthesized and characterized. Two aromatic conjugated polyimides (PI‐a and PI‐b) are prepared via a two‐step procedure using BCDA‐CBZ reacting with 2,2′,3,3′‐biphenyl‐tetracarboxylic dianhydride (i‐BPDA) and 2,2′‐bis(4′‐phenyl)‐4,4′,5,5′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (DPBPDA), respectively. The resulting PIs possess excellent organo‐solubility, are thermally stable, and have film‐formation ability. The Al/PI‐a/ITO exhibits a dynamic random access memory behavior, whereas the Al/PI‐b/ITO presents a rewritable type memory capability. The fabricated PI‐a device shows low turn‐on threshold voltages at −1.47 and +2.85 V, and the switching voltages of PI‐b device are  −2.07 (turn‐on) and +2.85 V (turn‐off). The electrical conduction behaviors are analyzed using theoretical models based on the experimental data. The molecular simulation by density functional theory calculations suggests that field‐induced charge‐transfer and the conformation change mechanism could be used to explain the memory characteristics.
Effects of Diels–Alder Adduct and Lass Transition on the Repeated Self‐Healing of Aliphatic Amine‐Cured Epoxy Resin
Authors: Štirn Žiga , Ručigaj Aleš , Karger‐Kocsis József , Krajnc Matjaž
Published: August 2018

A thermally reversible Diels–Alder (DA) adduct is incorporated via solution mixing in an aliphatic amine‐curable bifunctional epoxy resin in order to trigger and support self‐healing. The DA adduct is a reaction product of furan‐functionalized benzoxazine (G‐f) and N‐phenylmaleimide (PMI). Epoxy formulations containing stoichiometric amount of hexamethylene diamine without (EM) and with additional DA (EMDA) are cured at 70 °C. To investigate the chemical pathway, epoxies containing G‐f (EMGf ) and PMI (EMM) only are also produced and tested. Mechanical and thermal properties of the epoxy systems are studied by dynamical mechanical analysis and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. For the repeated self‐healing tests compact tension (CT) specimens with an arrest hole are used. Healing is achieved by a thermal cycle covering both the retro DA (140 °C) and DA formation temperature ranges (70 °C). Improved self‐healing is detected when healing is supported by the reversible DA reaction superimposed to the T
g‐assisted one. Very high self‐healing efficiency is found for the EMDA when the cracked CT specimens are healed at temperatures just above the T
g, that is, omitting the retro DA reaction required temperature step.
Making and Breaking Chemical Bonds by Chemiluminescence
Authors: Kockler Katrin B. , Frisch Hendrik , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: August 2018

Chemiluminescent (CL) reactions are powerful analytical tools and are present in commercially available everyday objects such as glow sticks. Herein, the photons generated by chemiluminescence are exploited to induce covalent bond breakage and formation, using a chemically generated photonic field at ambient temperature through space as energy transducer. Remarkably, the generated photons enable both the cleavage of species generating radicals as well as the execution of [2 + 2] cycloadditions, demonstrating that disparate types of reactions can be triggered. The herein‐presented photochemical concept establishes the field of CL‐induced photochemistry, which is poised to enable photochemical transformations in situations where physical light sources, such as lamps, LEDs, and lasers cannot be employed, including in biological environments.
Functional significance of Hippo/YAP signaling for drug resistance in colorectal cancer
Authors: Song Ruolan , Gu Dongsheng , Zhang Lining , Zhang Xiaoli , Yu Beiqin , Liu Bingya , Xie Jingwu
Published: August 2018

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. While early stage colorectal cancer can be removed by surgery, patients with advanced disease are treated by chemotherapy, with 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) as a main ingredient. However, most patients with advanced colorectal cancer eventually succumb to the disease despite some responded initially. Thus, identifying molecular mechanisms responsible for drug resistance will help design novel strategies to treat colorectal cancer. In this study, we analyzed an acquired 5‐FU resistant cell line, LoVo‐R, and determined that elevated expression of YAP target genes is a major alteration in the 5‐FU resistant cells. Hippo/YAP signaling, a pathway essential for cell polarity, is an important regulator for tissue homeostasis, organ size, and stem cells. We demonstrated that knockdown of YAP1 sensitized LoVo‐R cells to 5‐FU treatment in cultured cells and in mice. The relevance of our studies to colorectal cancer patients is reflected by our discovery that high expression of YAP target genes in the tumor was associated with an increased risk of cancer relapse and poor survival in a larger cohort of colorectal cancer patients who underwent 5‐FU‐related chemotherapy. Taken together, we demonstrate a critical role of YAP signaling for drug resistance in colorectal cancer.
Cruciferous Vegetables, Isothiocyanates, and Bladder Cancer Prevention
Authors: Abbaoui Besma , Lucas Christopher R. , Riedl Ken M. , Clinton Steven K. , Mortazavi Amir
Published: August 2018

Bladder cancer is a significant health burden due to its high prevalence, risk of mortality, morbidity, and high cost of medical care. Epidemiologic evidence suggests that diets rich in cruciferous vegetables, particularly broccoli, are associated with lower bladder cancer risk. Phytochemicals in cruciferous vegetables, such as glucosinolates, which are enzymatically hydrolyzed to bioactive isothiocyanates, are possible mediators of an anticancer effect. In vitro studies have shown inhibition of bladder cancer cell lines, cell cycle arrest, and induction of apoptosis by these isothiocyanates, in particular sulforaphane and erucin. Although not yet completely understood, many mechanisms of anticancer activity at the steps of cancer initiation, promotion, and progression have been attributed to these isothiocyanates. They target multiple pathways including the adaptive stress response, phase I/II enzyme modulation, pro‐growth, pro‐survival, pro‐inflammatory signaling, angiogenesis, and even epigenetic modulation. Multiple in vivo studies have shown the bioavailability of isothiocyanates and their antitumoral effects. Although human studies are limited, they support oral bioavailability with reasonable plasma and urine concentrations achieved. Overall, both cell and animal studies support a potential role for isothiocyanates in bladder cancer prevention and treatment. Future studies are necessary to examine clinically relevant outcomes and define guidelines on ameliorating the bladder cancer burden.
Costs of illness in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy in Germany
Authors: Mengel David , Fraune Linda , Sommer Norbert , Stettner Mark , Reese Jens Peter , Dams Judith , Glynn Robert James , Balzer‐Geldsetzer Monika , Dodel Richard , Tackenberg Björn
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Cost of illness studies are essential to estimate societal costs of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and identify cost‐driving factors. Methods: In total, 108 patients were recruited from 3 specialized neuroimmunological clinics. Costs were calculated for a 3‐month period, including direct and indirect costs. The following outcomes were assessed: inflammatory neuropathy cause and treatment disability scale, Mini‐Mental State Examination, Beck Depression Inventory, Charlson comorbidity index, EuroQol‐5D, World Health Organization quality of life instrument, and socioeconomic status. Univariate and multivariate analyses were applied to identify cost‐driving factors. Results: Total quarterly costs were €11,333. Direct costs contributed to 83% of total costs (€9,423), whereas indirect costs accounted for 17% (€1,910) of total costs. The cost of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) was the main determinant of total costs (67%). Reduced health‐related quality of life and depressive symptoms were identified as independent predictors of higher total costs. Discussion: CIDP is associated with high societal costs, mainly resulting from the cost of IVIg treatment. Muscle Nerve 58: 681–687, 2018
Subjective Global Assessment Can Be Performed in Critically Ill Surgical Patients as a Predictor of Poor Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Gattermann Pereira Thainá , da Silva Fink Jaqueline , Tosatti Jéssica Abdo Gonçalves , Silva Flávia Moraes
Published: August 2018

Background

There is limited evidence on the applicability of subjective global assessment (SGA) in critically ill patients, despite its good performance in diagnosing undernutrition in clinical and surgical patients. Our aim was to evaluate the association between SGA and anthropometric measures and the performance of SGA in predicting clinical outcomes and mortality in critically ill surgical patients.

Methods

This observational prospective study was carried out with patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) of a Brazilian hospital. Nutrition assessment comprised anthropometric measures (weight and height for body mass index [BMI] calculation, mid‐arm circumference [MAC] and calf circumference [CC]), and the SGA. Patients were followed up until hospital discharge for measurement of the following outcomes: length of stay (LOS), SICU LOS, and hospital mortality. Results: This study included 76 surgical patients admitted to an SICU (64.9% males; 87% white ethnicity; mean age, 60.36 ± 16.24 years). According to the SGA, the prevalence of undernutrition was 60.5% (moderate undernutrition = 38.2%; severe undernutrition = 22.4%), and well‐nourished 39.0%. Patients with severe undernutrition had lower values of current weight, BMI, MAC, and CC compared with well‐nourished patients. The presence of undernutrition increased the risk of LOS >31 days by 2.57 (1.38–4.77) times, but it was not associated with mortality. Conclusions: Patients with severe undernutrition had lower current weight, BMI, MAC, and CC compared with well‐nourished patients. Undernutrition did not increase the risk of death; however, it did increase the relative risk for a longer hospital stay by 2.5.
Linear systems with a canonical polyadic decomposition constrained solution: Algorithms and applications
Authors: Boussé M. , Vervliet N. , Domanov I. , Debals O. , De Lathauwer L.
Published: August 2018

Real‐life data often exhibit some structure and/or sparsity, allowing one to use parsimonious models for compact representation and approximation. When considering matrix and tensor data, low‐rank models such as the (multilinear) singular value decomposition, canonical polyadic decomposition (CPD), tensor train, and hierarchical Tucker model are very common. The solution of (large‐scale) linear systems is often structured in a similar way, allowing one to use compact matrix and tensor models as well. In this paper, we focus on linear systems with a CPD‐constrained solution (LS‐CPD). Our main contribution is the development of optimization‐based and algebraic methods to solve LS‐CPDs. Furthermore, we propose a condition that guarantees generic uniqueness of the obtained solution. We also show that LS‐CPDs provide a broad framework for the analysis of multilinear systems of equations. The latter are a higher‐order generalization of linear systems, similar to tensor decompositions being a generalization of matrix decompositions. The wide applicability of LS‐CPDs in domains such as classification, multilinear algebra, and signal processing is illustrated.
Mobile Technology Expands Emergency Water Treatment Options
Authors: Moro Rick
Published: August 2018

When emergencies strike or unplanned plant shutdowns occur, the need for an immediate solution is critical. As technology and innovation in the water industry have advanced in the past 25 years, fleets of membrane‐based mobile water units have become increasingly prevalent. Such mobile water treatment solutions provide rapid, flexible solutions for the evolving needs of water treatment plant operators.
Take a Proactive Approach to Rehabilitate Aging Infrastructure
Authors: Cotton Patrick M. , Michael Nathan E. , Mammone Jason L.
Published: August 2018

A historic Massachusetts town has implemented a comprehensive rehabilitation program to create a more efficient, less costly, and more predictable wastewater collection system.
Data Tools Improve Nutrient Monitoring
Authors: Danielsen Karlin , Zgnilec Nathan , Kelly Vincent
Published: August 2018

Real‐time nutrient monitoring systems can help communities address the underlying causes of persistent nutrient loading in surface waters, providing a better understanding of harmful algal blooms and nutrient management strategies that can improve water quality.
Ion crosslinked poly(acrylic acid‐co‐acrylamide)/poly(vinyl alcohol)/Cloisite 15A nanocomposite hydrogels as potential wound dressing films: Effect of clay content on water absorption kinetic and mechanical properties
Authors: Olad Ali , Eslamzadeh Morad , Mirmohseni Abdolreza
Published: August 2018

Tough and flexible ion crosslinked nanocomposite (NC) hydrogel films were synthesized as potential wound dressings. Poly(acrylic acid‐co‐acrylamide) chains were crosslinked using N,N′‐methylene bis‐acrylamide and Cloisite 15A as chemical and physical crosslinkers, respectively. As the synthesized hydrogels were mechanically weak, ion crosslinking method was used. As the main aim of this work, the effect of clay content on water absorption kinetic and mechanical properties of synthesized hydrogels was studied. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis, and element mapping analysis were used to characterize the synthesized hydrogel samples. For further information about water absorption and mechanical properties of the hydrogel samples, water absorption kinetics and tensile tests were done. Results showed that in an optimum amount of clay content, the main properties of the hydrogel samples were improved, which were accorded to the simultaneous effect of ion and physical crosslinking. All results confirmed that the ion crosslinked NC hydrogel with 1 wt%/vol% of clay is the sample with the best investigated properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1762–1773, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Structure and Physical Properties of Al2O3 Nanofillers Embedded in Poly(Vinyl Alcohol)
Authors: Ahmad Fatama , A. Hassan Moukhtar
Published: August 2018

Samples of solid poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) membrane filled with different concentrations of Al2O3 nanofiller were prepared by the casting method. XRD intensity revealed a reduction in the PVA hump intensity with increasing the Al2O3 concentration up to x = 0.10 wt%, indicating that the amorphous character increases. Although for higher Al2O3 content the membrane crystallinity increased. FTIR spectra revealed distinct absorption bands at approximately 938,845 and 784 cm−1 resulting from the chemical bonding of the Al2O3 nanofiller with PVA hydroxyl groups. The DC electrical conductivity was enhanced with the Al2O3 nanofiller up to x = 0.10 wt % by three orders of magnitude then it was reduced for higher Al2O3 values. This enhancement reflected the creation of charge transfer complexes inside the chains of the PVA network. The reduction in the optical band gap energy with dopant concentration up to x = 0.10 wt% is attributed to defects in the films as well as leads to increased chemical linkage between the polymer chains. These findings confirm that, Al2O3 nanofiller were dispersed homogenously through the polymer matrix up to 0.10 wt% uptake. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E647–E653, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Pregnancy outcome of autosomal aneuploidies other than common trisomies detected by noninvasive prenatal testing in routine clinical practice
Authors: Wan Junhui , Li Ru , Zhang Yongling , Jing Xiangyi , Yu Qiuxia , Li Fatao , Li Yan , Zhang Lina , Yi Cuixing , Li Jian , Li Dongzhi , Liao Can
Published: August 2018

Objective

The objective of the study is to report the incidence and pregnancy outcome of autosomal aneuploidies other than common trisomies 21, 18, and 13 detected by noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) at a single center.

Methods

Pregnant women undergoing NIPT from February 2015 to January 2018 in our center were offered expanded screening to include rare autosomal aneuploidies. Aneuploidies included extra copy chromosomes (most likely trisomies) and decreased copy chromosomes (most likely monosomies). The pregnancy outcomes of women consenting to the expanded NIPT screen were recorded.

Results

Expanded NIPT was performed in 15 362 pregnancies. A total of 59 autosomal aneuploidies other than the 3 common trisomies were detected, with a positive screening rate of 0.38% (59/15 362). The screen positive rate was higher in women aged above 35 years than in those younger (0.44% vs 0.32%, P < .05). Of the screen positive results, 30.5% (18/59) were because of extra copies for chromosomes trisomy 7, 10.2% (6/59) for chromosome 22, and 8.5% (5/59) for chromosomes 8 and 16 respectively, while other choromosomes were less frequently involved. Decreased copy chromosomes were less common: 6.8% (4/59) for chromosomes 14 and 13. Mixed aneuploidies with increased copies for some chromosomes and decreased copies for others were also noted. Invasive prenatal diagnosis was performed in 61% (36/59) of the cases. Invasive test results and clinical follow‐ups demonstrated that most (94.9%, 56/59) of the rare aneuploidies were false positives, probably resulting from confined placental mosaicism. Only 1 case (1.7%, 1/59) with NIPT report of extra copies of chromosome 7 and without ultrasound evidence of fetal abnormality was confirmed to be fetal mosaicism by microarray test. Uniparental disomy of whole chromosome 2 was identified by microarray analysis in 1 case with extra copy chromosome 2 detected by NIPT. Loss of heterozygocity of chromosome 7q11.23‐q21.11 was detected in another case with extra copy chromosome 7. Fortunately, pregnancy outcomes of both cases were normal. Two fetal deaths attributed to severe fetal growth restriction were associated with extra copies of chromosome 16 at expanded NIPT.

Conclusions

Autosomal aneuploidies other than trisomies 21, 18, and 13 are not uncommon in routine clinical NIPT practice. Extra copies of chromosomes in rare cases can be associated with uniparental disomy. Most rare aneuploidies at NIPT have good pregnancy outcomes. Thus, invasive testing should be used with caution for these aneuploidies in routine clinical practice.
Disordered Substrates of the 20S Proteasome Link Degradation with Phase Separation
Authors: Guharoy Mainak , Lazar Tamas , Tompa Peter
Published: August 2018

The 20S proteasome is known to degrade intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) via an ubiquitin‐independent, disorder‐driven mechanism. Unless protected within protein complexes or macromolecular assemblies, certain IDPs can undergo degradation mediated directly by the 20S core particle. In this issue of Proteomics, Myers et al. utilize a proteomics approach to identify ∼500 IDP substrates of the 20S proteasome. Bioinformatics analyses of these substrates demonstrate a large fraction of highly disordered RNA‐binding proteins, enriched in low‐complexity, prion‐like domains. A number of these proteins are also known to form phase‐separated membraneless organelles in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other protein neuropathies. The Myers et al. study highlights potentially interesting connections between IDP degradation and the regulatory dynamics of phase‐separated intracellular assemblies. Their work should stimulate further research into the mechanistic details of how the 20S proteasome controls cellular abundances of RNA‐binding proteins and thereby regulates RNA‐related biological functions within both physiological and pathological phase‐separated assemblies.
Amino‐functionalized hollow microporous organic nanospheres for pd supported catalysis and I2 uptake
Authors: He Zidong , Wang Tianqi , Xu Yang , Zhou Minghong , Yu Wei , Shi Buyin , Huang Kun
Published: August 2018

Amino‐functionalized hollow microporous organic nanospheres (NH2‐HMONs) were successfully synthesized by a combination of hyper‐crosslinking mediated self‐assembly process and a post‐modification strategy. Benefiting from amino groups and hollow microporous structure, the resultant NH2‐HMONs can be used to immobilize Pd nanoparticles (Pd@NH2‐HMONs) and enhance the adsorption capacity for iodine. The obtained Pd@NH2‐HMONs exhibited outstanding catalytic activity for hydrogenation of nitroarenes to aniline analogues. This strategy represents a new method for the preparation of porous organic polymers with special morphologies and functionalizations for potential applications including adsorption, separation, and catalysis. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2045–2052
Catalyst‐Transfer Suzuki–Miyaura Condensation Polymerization of Stilbene Monomer: Different Polymerization Behavior Depending on Halide and Aryl Group of ArPd(tBu3P)X Initiator
Authors: Nojima Masataka , Kamigawara Takeru , Ohta Yoshihiro , Yokozawa Tsutomu
Published: August 2018

We report Suzuki–Miyaura coupling polymerization of tetraalkoxy‐substituted 4‐bromostilbene‐4′‐boronic acid 1 with several t‐Bu3P‐ligated Pd initiators; this is the first example of catalyst‐transfer condensation polymerization (CTCP) of a monomer containing a carbon–carbon double bond. When o‐tolylPd(tBu3P)Br was used as the initiator, the o‐tolyl group was not introduced at the polymer end, but polymer with boronic acid at one end and bromine at the other was obtained. However, when we employed stilbenePd(tBu3P)I generated in situ from iodostilbene and Pd(tBu3P)G2 precatalyst, or isolated ArPd(tBu3P)X (Ar, X = Ph, I; o‐tolyl, I; and Ph, Br), the aryl group was introduced at the polymer end, indicating that CTCP of 1 proceeded. Therefore, the iodide and aryl group of the Pd initiator complex is crucial for CTCP of 1. However, the molecular weight distribution of the obtained polymer was broad, possibly because coordination of the carbon–carbon double bond of 1 to ArPd(tBu3P)I resulted in slow initiation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 297–304
Transparent and soluble polyimide films containing 4,4′‐isopropylidenedicyclohexanol (Cis‐HBPA) units: Preparation, characterization, thermal, mechanical, and dielectric properties
Authors: Mi Zhiming , Liu Zhixiao , Wang Chunbo , Liu Yuhan , Zhou Changjiang , Wang Daming , Zhao Xiaogang , Zhou Hongwei , Zhang Yumin , Chen Chunhai
Published: August 2018

To develop colorless and soluble polyimide films, cis‐hydrogenated bisphenol A (cis‐HBPA) was successfully separated from HBPA isomers, and two novel monomers containing cis‐HBPA unit, 4,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropenylbicyclohexyloxy) diphthalic anhydride (HBPADA) and 4,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropenylbicyclohexyloxy) dianiline (f) were designed and synthesized. PI–(1 – 5) were achieved from HBPADA and five kinds of aromatic diamines and PI – 6 from HBPADA and semiaromatic diamine f via a two‐step thermal imidization. All the polyimides could afford flexible, tough, and transparent films with transparency as high as 86% at 450 nm. Surprisingly, the polyimides containing cis‐HBPA unit exhibited excellent solubility not only in polar solvents such as N, N‐dimethylacetamide, but also in low boiling solvents such as chloroform and dichloromethane. Additionally, analogues aromatic PI – 7 derived from 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)‐diphthalic anhydride (6FDA) and 2,2‐bis(4‐aminophenyl)hexafluoropropane (e) was obtained for comparison with PI–(1 – 6) on aspects of thermal, mechanical, soluble, optical, electrical, and morphological properties. The structure‐property relationships of PI–(1 – 7) were investigated in detail. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2115–2128
In‐Situ “molecular welding” preparation of graphene/polyimide hybrid film with superior thermal conductivity and flexibility
Authors: Li Haoliang , Miao Jie , Wu Xian , Cheng Kui , Qiu Hanxun , Yang Junhe
Published: August 2018

With the rapid development of electronic industry, thermal management has become a critical issue that severely restricts the application of portable devices. In this work, we fabricate a flexible and free‐standing graphitized‐graphene/polyimide (I‐g‐GO/PI) film via an in‐situ “molecular welding” strategy. With the help of in‐situ polymerization, PI can be well‐dispersed with GO and serves as a solder to enlarge the grain size of GO, resulting in an enhanced thermal conductivity of the film. The 7 wt % addition of PI into GO (I‐g‐GO/PI‐7%) leads to an in‐plane thermal conductivity as high as 1269.700 ± 1.498 W/m/K, which is 81.8% higher than that of the pristine graphene and also superior to that fabricated via solution blending method by 58.3%. Simultaneously, the hybrid film exhibits an excellent flexibility and survives from a 2000 cycles bending test. The large‐area hybrid film prepared by such an in‐situ “molecular welding” method provides a promising way to fabricate graphene‐based film for highly efficient thermal management. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 1215–1223