bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decreased mitochondrial copy numbers in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Takeda Daisuke , Hasegawa Takumi , Ueha Takeshi , Sakakibara Akiko , Kawamoto Teruya , Minamikawa Tsutomu , Sakai Yoshitada , Komori Takahide
Published: April 2016

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction and altered respiration have long been suspected to affect the development and progression of cancer. Although quantitative changes in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been reported in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), differences in mtDNA copy numbers between normal and cancerous tissues from same patients have not been assessed.

Methods

We compared mtDNA copy numbers and expressions of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma coactivator‐1 alpha (PGC‐1α) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) between normal mucous membrane and cancerous tissues resected from 35 patients with oral SCC, using TaqMan quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

We found mtDNA copy numbers and expressions of PGC‐1α and TFAM were decreased in cancerous tissues compared with normal tissues from the same patients.

Conclusion

The PGC‐1α–TFAM mitochondrial pathway may be associated with malignant potential in human oral SCC, and could be an attractive therapeutic target. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38:1170–1175, 2016
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of oropharyngeal carcinoma related to high‐risk non–human papillomavirus16 viral subtypes
Authors: Varier Indu , Keeley Brieze R. , Krupar Rosemarie , Patsias Alexis , Dong Joanna , Gupta Nikita , Parasher Arjun K. , Genden Eric M. , Miles Brett A. , Teng Marita , Bakst Richard L. , Gupta Vishal , Misiukiewicz Krzysztof J. , Chiao Elizabeth Y. , Scheurer Michael E. , Laban Simon , Zhang David , Ye Fei , Cui Miao , Demicco Elizabeth G. , Posner Marshall R. , Sikora Andrew G.
Published: April 2016

Background

The majority of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal carcinomas (OPCs) are associated with HPV genotype 16; however, OPC can be associated with other high‐risk non‐HPV16 genotypes.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of patients with high‐risk non‐HPV16 OPC treated at a single tertiary institution. Sociodemographic and clinical information was obtained by chart review. HPV genotype was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Baseline data and outcomes were compared between HPV16 and high‐risk non‐HPV16 groups.

Results

High‐risk non‐HPV16 genotypes accounted for 9% of HPV‐related OPC. Of the 27 total high‐risk non‐HPV16 OPCs, HPV35 was most prevalent (48%). High‐risk non‐HPV16 OPC presented at a slightly higher age (p = .021) and higher clinical T classification (p = .008) compared to HPV16 OPC, but there was no significant survival difference.

Conclusion

Clinical characteristics of high‐risk non‐HPV16 OPC were largely consistent with those of HPV16 OPC. Additional multi‐institutional studies will be required to demonstrate conclusively that the favorable prognosis of patients with HPV16 applies to all high‐risk HPV types. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1330–1337, 2016
Salivary duct carcinoma of the sinonasal cavity: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Müller Sarina , Mantsopoulos Konstantinos , Iro Heinrich , Agaimy Abbas
Published: April 2016

Background

Salivary duct carcinoma is a rare, aggressive tumor entity first described by Kleinsasser et al in 1968, as a group of malignant salivary gland tumors characterized by duct formation and central necrosis. A case with an unusual localization in the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus is being described in our report.

Methods

A 60‐year‐old patient presented with difficulty of nasal breathing and recurrent episodes of epistaxis from the left nasal cavity over the previous 3 months. On endoscopy, a vulnerable lesion in the left inferior nasal meatus could be seen. Biopsy showed salivary duct carcinoma. Treatment consisted of tumor resection by means of a combined endoscopic‐osteoplastic surgical approach to the maxillary sinus, bilateral neck dissection, partial parotidectomy, and adjuvant radiochemotherapy.

Results

The patient is 6 months after completion of treatment and is free of disease.

Conclusion

As salivary duct carcinoma of the sinonasal tract is extremely rare, no therapeutic standards have been developed and treatment essentially is based upon experience with ductal adenocarcinoma of the salivary glands. Surgery therapy should be radical, aiming at eradicating locoregional disease with the role of adjuvant radiotherapy lying in the management of cases with negative prognostic factors. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38:E2464–E2466, 2016
Transthyrohyoid access to the larynx for endoscopic resection of early‐stage glottic cancer
Authors: Monnier Yan , Schoettker Patrick , Morisod Benoit , Ikonomidis Christos , Simon Christian
Published: April 2016

Background

The effectiveness of transoral microsurgery for early‐stage glottic cancer relies on the possibility to obtain adequate exposure of the lesion. The purpose of this study was to design a new surgical technique allowing efficient endoscopic removal of these tumors in patients with unsatisfactory transoral exposure.

Methods

A minimal invasive access to the glottis, made through the thyrohyoid membrane and the preepiglottic space, was used for endoscopic resection of an early‐stage glottic tumor in a patient with a medical history of previous radiotherapy and unsatisfactory endoscopic exposure of the lesion.

Results

This approach provided excellent exposure of the glottis and allowed endoscopic resection with adequate surgical margins. The surgical procedure and the postoperative period were uneventful. Functional outcomes were back to baseline after 1 month.

Conclusion

This technique represents an attractive solution for patients presenting with early‐stage glottic tumors that cannot be exposed transorally and have contraindications to alternative therapeutic procedures. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38:1286–1289, 2016
Nonabsorbable disaccharides for hepatic encephalopathy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gluud Lise L. , Vilstrup Hendrik , Morgan Marsha Y.
Published: April 2016

Nonabsorbable disaccharides (NADs) have been used to treat hepatic encephalopathy (HE) since 1966. However, a Cochrane Review, published in 2004, found insufficient evidence to recommend their use in this context. This updated systematic review evaluates the effects of the NADs, lactulose and lactitol, for the treatment and prevention of HE in patients with cirrhosis. Thirty‐eight randomized controlled trials, involving 1,828 patients, were identified through electronic and manual searches; 31 randomized controlled trials looked at the treatment of HE, while seven looked at its primary/secondary prevention. Random‐effects meta‐analyses showed that, compared to placebo/no intervention, NADs had a beneficial effect on HE (relative risk [RR] = 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.53‐0.74, number needed to treat [NNT] = 4) and serious liver‐related adverse events such as liver failure, variceal bleeding, serious infections, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatorenal syndrome (RR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.26‐0.69, NNT = 50). Treatment was also associated with a reduction in mortality in patients with overt HE (RR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.14‐0.94, NNT = 20), although not in patients with minimal HE. Meta‐analyses of the prevention randomized controlled trials showed that NADs prevented the development of HE (RR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.33‐0.68, NNT = 6), the risk of developing serious liver‐related adverse events (RR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.33‐0.70, NNT = 6), and reduced mortality (RR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.40‐0.98, NNT = 20). Use of NADs was associated with nonserious gastrointestinal adverse events. There were no differences in the efficacy or safety of lactulose and lactitol. Conclusions: NADs have beneficial effects in the treatment and prevention of HE; their use, in this context, confers additional benefits including a reduction in serious liver‐related morbidities and all‐cause mortality. (Hepatology 2016;64:908‐922)
Increased rhinovirus replication in nasal mucosa cells in allergic subjects is associated with increased ICAM‐1 levels and endosomal acidification and is inhibited by L‐carbocisteine
Authors: Yamaya Mutsuo , Nomura Kazuhiro , Arakawa Kazuya , Nishimura Hidekazu , Lusamba Kalonji Nadine , Kubo Hiroshi , Nagatomi Ryoichi , Kawase Tetsuaki
Published: April 2016

Increased viral replication and cytokine production may be associated with the pathogenesis of asthma attacks in rhinovirus (RV) infections. However, the association between increased RV replication and enhanced expression of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), a receptor for a major RV group, in airway epithelial cells has remained unclear. Furthermore, the inhibitory effects of mucolytics, which have clinical benefits in asthmatic subjects, are uncertain. Human nasal epithelial (HNE) cells were infected with type 14 rhinovirus (RV14), a major RV group. RV14 titers and cytokine concentrations, including interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐8, in supernatants, RV14 RNA replication and susceptibility to RV14 infection were higher in HNE cells obtained from subjects in the allergic group (allergic subjects) than in those from subjects in the non‐allergic group (non‐allergic subjects). ICAM‐1 expression and the number and fluorescence intensity of acidic endosomes from which RV14 RNA enters the cytoplasm were higher in HNE cells from allergic subjects, though substantial amounts of interferon (IFN)‐γ and IFN‐λ were not detected in the supernatant. The abundance of p50 and p65 subunits of transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) in nuclear extracts of the cells from allergic subjects was higher compared to non‐allergic subjects, and an inhibitor of NF‐κB, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, reduced the fluorescence intensity of acidic endosomes as well as RV titers and RNA. Furthermore, a mucolytic agent, L‐carbocisteine, reduced RV14 titers and RNA levels, cytokine release, ICAM‐1 expression, the fluorescence intensity of acidic endosomes, and NF‐κB activation. The increased RV14 replication observed in HNE cells from allergic subjects might be partly associated with enhanced ICAM‐1 expression and decreased endosomal pH through NF‐κB activation. L‐Carbocisteine inhibits RV14 infection by reducing ICAM‐1 and acidic endosomes and may, therefore, modulate airway inflammation caused by RV infection in allergic subjects.
Vitamin B2 intake and colorectal cancer risk; results from the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow‐Up Study cohort
Authors: Yoon Yeong Sook , Jung Seungyoun , Zhang Xuehong , Ogino Shuji , Giovannucci Edward L. , Cho Eunyoung
Published: April 2016

Vitamin B2 serves as a cofactor to enhance one‐carbon metabolism, maintain mucous membranes, and has been implicated in lowering colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. However, few prospective studies have examined the association between vitamin B2 intake and CRC. In this study, we estimated the associations between vitamin B2 intake and CRC risk using the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) and the Health Professionals Follow‐Up Study (HPFS) cohorts. Vitamin B2 intake was measured by a validated food frequency questionnaire every 4 years. Among 100,033 women in the NHS and 44,007 men in the HPFS we documented a total of 3,037 incident CRC cases (2,093 women and 944 men) during 24–26 years of follow‐up until 2010. Intakes of total (from food and supplements), dietary (from food only), and supplemental vitamin B2 were inversely related to CRC risk in age‐adjusted analysis in NHS. However, the association was attenuated and no longer statistically significant in multivariate analysis (p‐trend ≥0.08). The pooled multivariate relative risks (95% confidence interval) comparing individuals in the extreme quintiles of intakes were 0.93 (0.81–1.06) for total vitamin B2, 0.89 (0.61–1.28) for dietary vitamin B2 and 0.94 (0.81–1.08) for supplemental vitamin B2. These associations of total vitamin B2 intake were similar for risk of CRC with varying lag‐time periods (0–4, 4–8, 8–12 or 12–16 years), for risk of CRC subtypes by tumor location, and across strata of intake of folate or alcohol. Our prospective data do not support a beneficial role of vitamin B2 intake in lowering incidence of CRC.
Massive Open Online Courses: Variations on a New Instructional Form
Authors: Major Claire H. , Blackmon Stephanie J.
Published: April 2016

The chapter examines the term MOOC, outlines various MOOC typologies, and identifies themes and issues in the literature surrounding the instructional form.
Who Takes MOOCs?
Authors: Glass Chris R. , Shiokawa‐Baklan Mitsue S. , Saltarelli Andrew J.
Published: April 2016

The chapter examines MOOC student demographics, learner characteristics, and discusses six tensions that result from existing trends in who takes MOOCs.
Neuroglial alterations in the zebrafish brain exposed to cadmium chloride
Authors: Monaco Antonio , Grimaldi Maria C. , Ferrandino Ida
Published: April 2016

Cadmium is an extremely toxic heavy metal that widely occurs in industrial workplaces with various hazardous effects on brain functions. The cytotoxic effects of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on the neuroglial components of the zebrafish brain were analysed by detecting the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression and the mRNA levels of myelin genes mbp, mpz and plp1 in adult specimens exposed to cadmium for 2, 7 and 16 days. A significant decrease in the GFAP protein by Western blotting experiments was observed after 2 days of treatment, reaching 55% after 16 days. No change was observed in the mRNA levels. Using immunohistochemistry, a reduction in GFAP‐positive structures was revealed with a progressive trend in all the brains at 2, 7 and 16 days of treatment. In particular, a considerable reduction in GFAP‐positive fibres, with a different course, was observed in the ventricle areas and at the pial surface and in blood vessels after 16 days. Our experiments also showed a structural and chemical alteration of myelin and upregulation of mpz mRNA levels, the oligodendrocyte gene that is upregulated in experiments of neuronal injury, but not of plp1 and mbp mRNA levels, other myelin structural genes. These data confirm the toxic action of cadmium on the zebrafish brain. This action is time‐dependent and involves the glial cells, key components of the protection and function of nerve cells, hence the basis for many neurological diseases. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Peroxide cross‐linked UHMWPE blended with vitamin E
Authors: Oral Ebru , Doshi Brinda N. , Gul Rizwan M. , Neils Andrew L. , Kayandan Sanem , Muratoglu Orhun K.
Published: April 2016

Radiation crosslinked ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the bearing surface material most commonly used in total joint arthroplasty because of its excellent wear resistance. Crosslinking agents such as peroxides can also effectively increase wear resistance but peroxide crosslinked UHMWPE has low oxidative stability. We hypothesized that the addition of an antioxidant to peroxide crosslinked UHMWPE could improve its oxidation resistance and result in mechanical, tribological, and oxidative properties equivalent to currently utilized radiation crosslinked UHMWPEs. Various vitamin E (0.1–1.0 wt % and peroxide concentration (0.5–1.5 wt %) combinations were studied to investigate changes in crosslink density, wear rate, mechanical properties, and oxidative stability in comparison to radiation crosslinked UHMWPE. Peroxide crosslinking was more efficient as compared to radiation crosslinking in the presence of vitamin E with the former resulting in lower wear rate with vitamin E concentrations above 0.3 wt %. The tensile mechanical properties were comparable to and the impact strength was higher than those of the clinically relevant radiation crosslinked controls. We also determined that gamma sterilization of peroxide crosslinked vitamin E blends improved wear resistance further. In summary, peroxide crosslinking of vitamin E‐blended UHMWPE may provide a feasible and economical alternative to radiation for achieving clinically relevant properties for total joint implants using UHMWPE. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1379–1389, 2017.
Probabilistic evaluation of the material properties of the in vivo subject‐specific articular surface using a computational model
Authors: Kang Kyoung‐Tak , Kim Sung‐Hwan , Son Juhyun , Lee Young Han , Kim Shinil , Chun Heoung‐Jae
Published: April 2016

This article used probabilistic analysis to evaluate material properties of the in vivo subject‐specific tibiofemoral (TF) joint model. Sensitivity analysis, based on a Monte Carlo (MC) method, was performed using a subject‐specific finite element (FE) model generated from in vivo computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, subjected to two different loading conditions. Specifically, the effects of inherent uncertainty in ligament stiffness, horn attachment stiffness, and articular surface material properties were assessed using multifactorial global sensitivity analysis. The MRI images were taken before and after axial compression, and when the flexion condition had been maintained at up to 90 degree flexion in the subject‐specific knee joint. The loading conditions of the probabilistic subject‐specific FE model (axial compression and 90 degree flexion) were similar to the MRI acquisition setup. We were able to detect the influence of material parameters while maintaining the potential effect of parametric interactions. Throughout the in silico property optimization, a subject‐specific FE model was used and less sensitive parameters were eliminated in the global sensitivity method. Soft tissue material properties were estimated using an optimization procedure that involved the minimization of the differences between the kinematics predicted by the subject‐specific model and those obtained through in vivo subject‐specific data. The results of this approach suggest that the articular surface mechanical properties could be found by using in vivo measurements, which clarifies the valuable tool for future subject‐specific studies related to TF joint scaffolds, allografts and biologics. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1390–1400, 2017.
Determination of joint loads using new sensate scaffolds for regenerating large cartilage defects in the knee
Authors: Szivek John A. , Ruth John T. , Heden Greg J. , Martinez Michael A. , Diggins Nicklaus H. , Wenger Karl H.
Published: April 2016

Two complete unicondylar surface replacement scaffold designs to support tissue‐engineered cartilage growth that utilized adult endogenous stem cells were 3D printed and tested in a dog stifle model. Integrated rosette strain gauges were calibrated and used to determine shear loading within stifle joints for up to 12 months. An activity index that compared extent of daily activity with tissue formation showed differences in the extent and quality of new tissue with the most active animal having the most new tissue formation. Shear loads were highest early and decreased with time indicating that cartilage tissue formation begins while tissues experience high shear loads and continues as the loads decrease toward normal physiological levels. Scaffolds with biomimetic support pegs facilitated the most rapid bone ingrowth and were noted to have more cartilage formation with better quality cartilage as measured using both indentation testing and histology. Comparison of implant placement depth to previous studies suggested that placement depth affects the amount of tissue formation. This study provides measurements of loading patterns and cartilage regeneration on a complete medial condylar surface replacement that can be used for preclinical testing of a tissue engineering approach for the most common form of early stage osteoarthritis, unicondylar disease. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 1409–1421, 2017.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) Supports Homing of Osteoclast Precursors to Peripheral Osteolytic Lesions
Authors: Movila Alexandru , Ishii Takenobu , Albassam Abdullah , Wisitrasameewong Wichaya , Howait Mohammed , Yamaguchi Tsuguno , Ruiz-Torruella Montserrat , Bahammam Laila , Nishimura Kazuaki , Van Dyke Thomas , Kawai Toshihisa
Published: April 2016

By binding to its chemokine receptor CXCR4 on osteoclast precursor cells (OCPs), it is well known that stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) promotes the chemotactic recruitment of circulating OCPs to the homeostatic bone remodeling site. However, the engagement of circulating OCPs in pathogenic bone resorption remains to be elucidated. The present study investigated a possible chemoattractant role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), another ligand for C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), in the recruitment of circulating OCPs to the bone lytic lesion. To accomplish this, we used Csf1r-eGFP-knock-in (KI) mice to establish an animal model of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) particle-induced calvarial osteolysis. In the circulating Csf1r-eGFP+ cells of healthy Csf1r-eGFP-KI mice, Csf1r+/CD11b+ cells showed a greater degree of RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis compared to a subset of Csf1r+/RANK+ cells in vitro. Therefore, Csf1r-eGFP+/CD11b+ cells were targeted as functionally relevant OCPs in the present study. Although expression of the two cognate receptors for MIF, CXCR2 and CXCR4, was elevated on Csf1r+/CD11b+ cells, transmigration of OCPs toward recombinant MIF in vitro was facilitated by ligation with CXCR4, but not CXCR2. Meanwhile, the level of PMMA-induced bone resorption in calvaria was markedly greater in wild-type (WT) mice compared to that detected in MIF-knockout (KO) mice. Interestingly, in contrast to the elevated MIF, diminished SDF-1 was detected in a particle-induced bone lytic lesion of WT mice in conjunction with an increased number of infiltrating CXCR4+ OCPs. However, such diminished SDF-1 was not found in the PMMA-injected calvaria of MIF-KO mice. Furthermore, stimulation of osteoblasts with MIF in vitro suppressed their production of SDF-1, suggesting that MIF can downmodulate SDF-1 production in bone tissue. Systemically administered anti-MIF neutralizing monoclonal antibody (mAb) inhibited the homing of CXCR4+ OCPs, as well as bone resorption, in the PMMA-injected calvaria, while increasing locally produced SDF-1. Collectively, these data suggest that locally produced MIF in the inflammatory bone lytic site is engaged in the chemoattraction of circulating CXCR4+ OCPs. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Increased EPO Levels Are Associated With Bone Loss in Mice Lacking PHD2 in EPO-Producing Cells
Authors: Rauner Martina , Franke Kristin , Murray Marta , Singh Rashim Pal , Hiram-Bab Sahar , Platzbecker Uwe , Gassmann Max , Socolovsky Merav , Neumann Drorit , Gabet Yankel , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Hofbauer Lorenz C , Wielockx Ben
Published: April 2016

The main oxygen sensor hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) prolyl hydroxylase 2 (PHD2) is a critical regulator of tissue homeostasis during erythropoiesis, hematopoietic stem cell maintenance, and wound healing. Recent studies point toward a role for the PHD2-erythropoietin (EPO) axis in the modulation of bone remodeling, even though the studies produced conflicting results. Here, we used a number of mouse strains deficient of PHD2 in different cell types to address the role of PHD2 and its downstream targets HIF-1α and HIF-2α in bone remodeling. Mice deficient for PHD2 in several cell lineages, including EPO-producing cells, osteoblasts, and hematopoietic cells (CD68:cre-PHD2f/f) displayed a severe reduction of bone density at the distal femur as well as the vertebral body due to impaired bone formation but not bone resorption. Importantly, using osteoblast-specific (Osx:cre-PHD2f/f) and osteoclast-specific PHD2 knock-out mice (Vav:cre- PHD2f/f), we show that this effect is independent of the loss of PHD2 in osteoblast and osteoclasts. Using different in vivo and in vitro approaches, we show here that this bone phenotype, including the suppression of bone formation, is directly linked to the stabilization of the α-subunit of HIF-2, and possibly to the subsequent moderate induction of serum EPO, which directly influenced the differentiation and mineralization of osteoblast progenitors resulting in lower bone density. Taken together, our data identify the PHD2:HIF-2α:EPO axis as a so far unknown regulator of osteohematology by controlling bone homeostasis. Further, these data suggest that patients treated with PHD inhibitors or EPO should be monitored with respect to their bone status. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
DEMOGRAPHIC GROUP DIFFERENCES IN DOMAIN‐SPECIFIC WELL‐BEING
Authors: Rubenstein Carolyn L. , Duff Johnathan , Prilleltensky Isaac , Jin Ying , Dietz Samantha , Myers Nicholas D. , Prilleltensky Ora
Published: April 2016

Although research is available on group differences for overall well‐being, little research has explored group differences for domain‐specific well‐being. Therefore, we examined differences in overall and domain‐specific well‐being across several demographic variables: gender, income, marital status, age, ethnicity, education level, employment status, occupation, and housing tenure. We analyzed data from 1,087 participants on the I COPPE Scale, which provides scores for overall, interpersonal, community, occupational, physical, psychological, and economic well‐being. Group differences were found across multiple domains with small to large effect sizes. While there were no gender differences, compared with those in the same demographic variable, higher income earners, married, elderly, Hispanic, educated, white‐collar professionals, and homeowners reported the highest levels of well‐being. The unemployed reported the lowest level of well‐being on all but one of the domains–the interpersonal domain. Findings suggest people report different levels of well‐being based on their unique demographic and life circumstances.
Value of higher‐resolution MRI in assessing middle cerebral atherosclerosis and predicting capsular warning syndrome
Authors: Xu Xin , Wei Yafen , Zhang Xiandong , Yang Lili , Cui Zhitang , Yan Junjie
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To investigate the correlation between middle cerebral atherosclerosis and capsular warning syndrome (CWS) and assess the value of higher‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in prognostication.

Materials and Methods

In all, 97 transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients who underwent an MRI from February 2010 to December 2013 were included in the retrospective study and divided into either a CWS or middle cerebral artery (MCA) TIA group according to their eventual clinical diagnosis. 3T MRI included fast‐spin echo T2‐weighted imaging, double‐inverse recovery T1‐weighted imaging, and T1 contrast‐enhanced scan sequences. Baseline characteristics, MRI results in terms of MCA plaque formation, plaque characteristics such as enhancement, and development of infarction were compared between the two groups to study the distribution and characteristics of cerebral atherosclerotic plaques. Multivariate analysis identified factors associated with infarction 1 week after plaque identification.

Results

Based on the MR images, 76% of both groups of patients had middle cerebral atherosclerosis. Compared to TIA patients, the median age of CWS patients was younger (58 [range 42–73] vs. 67 [36–84] years, P = 0.003), and CWS patients had a lower rate of stroke history (10.9% vs. 41.2%, P = 0.001). Infarction was more common in CWS patients than in TIA patients (52.2% vs. 20.5%, P = 0.003) and a superior plaque was correlated with infarction occurrence (odds ratio 5.674, 95% confidence interval 1.112–28.958).

Conclusion

Patients with CWS have large arterial plaques, including MCA plaques. There was a correlation between CWS and the MCA plaque location. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1277–1283.
MRI assessment of regional differences in phosphorus‐31 metabolism and morphological abnormalities of the foot muscles in diabetes
Authors: Lin Yu‐Ching , Wu Jim , Baltzis Dimitrios , Veves Aristidis , Greenman Robert
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To assess differences in the phosphorus‐31 (31P) metabolism and morphology in multiple muscle regions in the forefoot of diabetic patients and normal subjects.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen diabetic patients and 15 normal subjects were assessed for muscle atrophy by 1H magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3T to grade the flexor hallucis, adductor hallucis, interosseous regions, and entire foot cross‐section. Each region and the entire foot were also quantitatively evaluated for metabolic function using 31P imaging for spatial mapping of the inorganic phosphate (Pi) to phosphocreatine (PCr) ratio (Pi/PCr). The ratio of viable muscle area to the predefined region areas (31P/1H) was calculated. The variability of each method was assessed by its coefficient of variation (CV).

Results

Muscle atrophy was significantly more severe in diabetic compared to normal subjects in all regions (P < 0.01). The 31P/1H area ratio was significantly larger in the adductor hallucis than in the other two regions (P < 0.05). The Pi/PCr ratio was significantly different between the two groups in the flexor hallucis and interosseous regions (P < 0.05) but not adductor hallucis region. The CV for Pi/PCr ranged from 10.13 to 55.84, while it ranged from 73.40 to 263.90 for qualitative grading.

Conclusion

Changes in atrophy and metabolism appear to occur unequally between different regions of the forefoot in diabetes. The adductor hallucis region appears more capable of maintaining structural and metabolic integrity than the flexor hallucis or interosseous regions. The CV analysis suggests that the quantitative 31P methods have less variability than the qualitative grading. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1132–1142.
Intratumor partitioning and texture analysis of dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI identifies relevant tumor subregions to predict pathological response of breast cancer to neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Wu Jia , Gong Guanghua , Cui Yi , Li Ruijiang
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To predict pathological response of breast cancer to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) based on quantitative, multiregion analysis of dynamic contrast enhancement magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI).

Materials and Methods

In this Institutional Review Board‐approved study, 35 patients diagnosed with stage II/III breast cancer were retrospectively investigated using 3T DCE‐MR images acquired before and after the first cycle of NAC. First, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to reduce the dimensionality of the DCE‐MRI data with high temporal resolution. We then partitioned the whole tumor into multiple subregions usingk‐means clustering based on the PCA‐defined eigenmaps. Within each tumor subregion, we extracted four quantitative Haralick texture features based on the gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM). The change in texture features in each tumor subregion between pre‐ and during‐NAC was used to predict pathological complete response after NAC.

Results

Three tumor subregions were identified through clustering, each with distinct enhancement characteristics. In univariate analysis, all imaging predictors except one extracted from the tumor subregion associated with fast washout were statistically significant (P< 0.05) after correcting for multiple testing, with area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) or AUCs between 0.75 and 0.80. In multivariate analysis, the proposed imaging predictors achieved an AUC of 0.79 (P= 0.002) in leave‐one‐out cross‐validation. This improved upon conventional imaging predictors such as tumor volume (AUC = 0.53) and texture features based on whole‐tumor analysis (AUC = 0.65).

Conclusion

The heterogeneity of the tumor subregion associated with fast washout on DCE‐MRI predicted pathological response to NAC in breast cancer. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1107–1115.
Raman spectroscopy of minerals and mineral pigments in archaeometry
Authors: Bersani D. , Lottici P. P.
Published: April 2016

Minerals, as raw structural materials or pigments, play a fundamental role in archaeometry, for the understanding of nature, structure and status of an artefact or object of interest for cultural heritage. A detailed knowledge of the mineral phases is crucial to solve archaeological problems: Raman spectroscopy is a powerful investigation technique and has been applied extensively in the last 30 years on mineral identification and on pigment degradation. Here we report an updated review, covering the last decade, of the applications of Raman techniques to issues in which raw minerals, including mineral pigments, are involved. Particular attention is devoted to cases where the Raman analysis of minerals is deeper than a simple identification of the phases present in an archaeological or artistic object. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chiral separation of brompheniramine enantiomers by recycling high‐speed countercurrent chromatography using carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin as a chiral selector
Authors: Zhang Panliang , Xie Xiaojuan , Tang Kewen , Xu Weifeng
Published: April 2016

A recycling high‐speed countercurrent chromatography protocol was proposed for the enantioseparation of brompheniramine by employing β‐cyclodextrin derivatives as a chiral selector. The two‐phase solvent system of n‐hexane/isobutyl acetate/0.10 mol/L phosphate buffer solution with a volume ratio of 2:4:6 was selected by a series of extraction experiments. Factors that affected the distribution of the enantiomers over the two‐phase system (e.g., the type and concentration of β‐cyclodextrin derivatives = pH value of the aqueous solution, and the separation temperature) were also investigated. In addition, the theory of thermodynamics is applied to verify the feasibility of the enantioseparation process and the corresponding results demonstrate that this separation process is feasible. The optimized conditions include carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin concentration of 0.010 mol/L, pH of 7.5, and temperature of 5°C. Under the optimal conditions, the purities of both monomer molecules were over 99%, and the recovery yields were 88% for (+)‐brompheniramine and 85% for (–)‐brompheniramine, respectively.
Numbing of Positive, Negative, and General Emotions: Associations With Trauma Exposure, Posttraumatic Stress, and Depressive Symptoms Among Justice‐Involved Youth
Authors: Kerig Patricia K. , Bennett Diana C. , Chaplo Shannon D. , Modrowski Crosby A. , McGee Andrew B.
Published: April 2016

Increasing attention has been drawn to the symptom of emotional numbing in the phenomenology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly regarding its implications for maladaptive outcomes in adolescence such as delinquent behavior. One change in the definition of emotional numbing according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM‐5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013) was the limitation to the numbing of positive emotions. Previous research with youth, however, has implicated general numbing or numbing of negative emotions in PTSD, whereas numbing of positive emotions may overlap with other disorders, particularly depression. Consequently, the goal of this study was to investigate whether numbing of positive emotions was associated with PTSD symptoms above and beyond numbing of negative emotions, general emotional numbing, or depressive symptoms among at‐risk adolescents. In a sample of 221 detained youth (mean age = 15.98 years, SD = 1.25; 50.7% ethnic minority), results of hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that only general emotional numbing and numbing of anger accounted for significant variance in PTSD symptoms (total R2 = .37). In contrast, numbing of sadness and positive emotions were statistical correlates of depressive symptoms (total R2 = .24). Further tests using Hayes’ Process macro showed that general numbing, 95% CI [.02, .45], and numbing of anger, 95% CI [.01, .42], demonstrated indirect effects on the association between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms.
Hydrological Connectivity Does Change Over 70 Years of Abandonment and Afforestation in the Spanish Pyrenees
Authors: López‐Vicente Manuel , Nadal‐Romero Estela , Cammeraat Erik L. H.
Published: April 2016

Runoff connectivity depends on topography, rainfall, man‐made elements (terraces, trails, roads and drainage systems) and vegetation. In this study, we quantified the effects of 70 years of human activities on runoff connectivity in the mountainous Araguás afforested sub‐catchment (17·2 ha; Central Spanish Pyrenees). The IC index of hydrological connectivity was chosen to perform this metric over six land use scenarios at high spatial resolution (1 × 1 m of cell size). The current scenario (year 2012) was simulated with three flow accumulation algorithms (MD, MD8 and D8). MD8 was linked with the most frequent hydrological response of the sub‐catchment (rainfall intensity and stream flow during 7 years) and generated the most representative pattern of connectivity, especially in the linear landscape elements (LLE). This algorithm was chosen to simulate five past scenarios (1945, 1956, 1973, 1980 and 2006). In all scenarios, the highest connectivity appeared related to trails and roads, as well as to streams and gullies, whereas the lowest appeared related to stonewalls in 1945 and 1956 to hillslopes in 1973, and the following afforestation. Changes in connectivity mainly depended on the changes in the vegetation factor and in a minor way in the total length, spatial location and type of LLE. Afforestation promoted lower and more stable connectivity at both local and catchment scales. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gully Erosion Rates and Analysis of Determining Factors: A Case Study from the Semi‐arid Main Ethiopian Rift Valley
Authors: Mukai Shiro
Published: April 2016

The assessment of temporal interactions between environmental change (land use, vegetation cover) and gully erosion is one of the important challenges in gully erosion research. In this study, the combination of photogrammetric techniques using small‐scale aerial photographs and analysis based on volume–length relationships was used to: (i) estimate the erosion rate of gully networks in the semi‐arid main Ethiopian Rift Valley and (ii) determine variables that significantly influence the gully erosion rate at three periods (1957, 1972 and 2005) and establish their correlation with the volume of the gully networks in each period. The area‐specific gully erosion rate (gully erosion rate per unit area) from 1957 to 2005 of the gully networks in 12 study catchments was 16·2 Mg ha−1 y−1, a finding in accord with results from other case studies in the East African highlands. Over the three periods of 1957, 1972 and 2005, it was found that: (i) catchment topography and gully morphological variables strongly correlate with the total volume of gully networks; (ii) rainfall, soil texture and slope gradient variables strongly correlate with both the area‐specific volume of the gully networks and drainage density; and (iii) land use/cover in each period plays a minor role in controlling the total volume and the area‐specific volume of the gully networks and drainage density, but when the land use/cover is expressed in temporal variables, it strongly correlates with the rates of gully erosion. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liver transplantation in India
Authors: Narasimhan Gomathy , Kota Venugopal , Rela Mohamed
Published: April 2016

Liver transplantation as an established form of treatment for end‐stage liver disease has gained acceptance in India over the last 10 years. Liver transplantation in India has unique features that have contributed to the growth of both deceased donor and living donor transplantations of which living donor currently dominates the picture. Living donor contributes to 80% and deceased donor to 20% of the liver transplants currently performed in India. The majority of these transplants are performed within the private sector with public sector hospitals lagging behind significantly. This article gives an overview of the evolution of liver transplantation in India and the potential future challenges. Liver Transplantation 22 1019–1024 2016 AASLD
Can we prevent ischemic‐type biliary lesions in donation after circulatory determination of death liver transplantation?
Authors: Hessheimer Amelia J. , Cárdenas Andrés , García‐Valdecasas Juan C. , Fondevila Constantino
Published: April 2016

The pool of livers for transplantation consists of an increasingly greater proportion of marginal grafts, in particular those arising through donation after circulatory determination of death (DCD). However, a primary factor limiting the use of marginal livers, and, thereby, the applicability of liver transplantation in general, is concern over the subsequent development of ischemic‐type biliary lesion (ITBL). ITBL is a devastating complication of liver transplantation; in its most severe forms, recipients suffer frequent infectious complications that require repeated invasive biliary procedures and ultimately result in either retransplantation or death. In the present review article, we discuss our current understanding of ITBL pathogenesis as it pertains to DCD, in particular. We discuss the most relevant theories regarding its development and provide a comprehensive overview of the most promising strategies we have available today to prevent the appearance of ITBL, strategies that may, furthermore, allow us to transplant a greater proportion of marginal livers in the future. Liver Transplantation 22 1025–1033 2016 AASLD
Liver transplantation in Germany
Authors: Tacke Frank , Kroy Daniela C. , Barreiros Ana Paula , Neumann Ulf P.
Published: April 2016

Liver transplantation (LT) is a well‐accepted procedure for end‐stage liver disease in Germany. In 2015, 1489 patients were admitted to the waiting list (including 1308 new admissions), with the leading etiologies being fibrosis and cirrhosis (n = 349), alcoholic liver disease (n = 302), and hepatobiliary malignancies (n = 220). Organ allocation in Germany is regulated within the Eurotransplant system based on urgency as expressed by the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score. In 2015, only 894 LTs (n = 48 from living donors) were performed at 23 German transplant centers, reflecting a shortage of organs. Several factors may contribute to the low number of organ donations. The German transplant legislation only accepts donation after brain death (not cardiac death), whereas advances in neurosurgery and a more frequently requested “palliative care” approach render fewer patients suitable as potential donors. The legislation further requires the active consent of the donor or first‐degree relatives before donation. Ongoing debates within the German transplant field address the optimal management of patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and cholangiocarcinoma and measures to increase living donor transplantations. As a result of irregularities at mainly 4 German transplant centers that were exposed in 2012, guiding principles updated by the German authorities have since implemented strict rules (including internal and external auditing, the 8‐eyes principle, mandatory repeated testing for alcohol consumption) to prohibit any manipulations in organ allocation. In conclusion, we will summarize important aspects on the management of LT in Germany, discuss legal and organizational aspects, and highlight challenges mainly related to the relative lack of organ donations, increasing numbers of extended criteria donors, and the peculiarities of the recipient patients. Liver Transplantation 22 1136–1142 2016 AASLD
Liver transplantation in the United Kingdom
Authors: Neuberger James
Published: April 2016

Liver transplantation (LT) services in the United Kingdom are provided by 7 designated transplant centers for a population of approximately 64 million. The number of deceased organ donors has grown, and in 2014‐2015 it was 1282 (570 donation after circulatory death and 772 donation after brain death). Donor risk is increasing. In 2014‐2015, there were 829 LTs from deceased and 38 from living donors. The common causes for transplantation are liver cell cancer, viral hepatitis, and alcohol‐related liver disease. Livers are allocated first nationally to super‐urgent listed patients and then on a zonal basis. The United Kingdom will be moving toward a national allocation scheme. The median interval between listing and transplantation is 152 days for adults awaiting their first elective transplant. Of the adults listed for the first elective transplant, 68% underwent transplantation at < 1 year; 17% are waiting; and 4% and 11% were removed or died, respectively. The 1‐ and 5‐year adult patient survival rate from listing is 81% and 68%, respectively, and from transplantation is 92% and 80%, respectively. The transplant program is funded through general taxation and is free at the point of care to those who are eligible for National Health Service (NHS) treatment; some have to pay for medication (up to a maximum payment of US $151/year). The competent authority is the Human Tissue Authority which licenses donor characterization, retrieval, and implantation; transplant units are commissioned by NHS England and NHS Scotland. National Health Service Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) promotes organ donation, maintains the organ donor register, obtains consent, and undertakes donor characterization and offering. NHSBT also maintains the national waiting list, develops and applies selection and allocation policies, monitors outcomes, and maintains the UK National Transplant Registry and commissions a national organ retrieval service. Liver Transplantation 22 1129–1135 2016 AASLD
Toward Truly Water‐Soluble Rodlike Polyelectrolytes: Synthesis of Poly(para‐phenylenes) Wrapped in Ethylene Oxideand Amino Side Groups
Authors: Wittmeyer Patrick , Traser Steffen , Sander Regina , Sondergeld Katrin B. , Ungefug Alexander , Weiss Richard , Rehahn Matthias
Published: April 2016

Suzuki and Yamamoto cross‐coupling protocols are applied to synthesize water‐soluble poly(p‐phenylene) (PPP) derivatives decorated with oligoethylene oxide (OEO) and tertiary amino side groups. It is shown that constitutionally well‐defined PPPs can be obtained having degrees of polycondensation, P
n, of 30–60. In some cases, however the heteroatoms in the side chains affect the monomer synthesis and prevent proper chain growth through coordination of metal species present in the reaction medium. It is shown that essentially uncharged but still water‐soluble PPPs result if (i) the side groups bear their heteroatoms in the right position, and (ii) if the water‐soluble segments of the lateral substituents prevent intermolecular hydrophobic interactions of the apolar main chains reliably. In other words, the lateral substituents have to wrap the PPP core structure tightly in a closed outer shell of water‐soluble OEO moieties. These PPPs constitute a valuable new pool of model systems for future polyelectrolyte research, being highly complementary to what has been available so far.

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