bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progression of Autoimmune Hepatitis is Mediated by IL-18-Producing Dendritic Cells and Hepatic CXCL9 Expression in Mice
Authors: Ikeda Aki , Aoki Nobuhiro , Kido Masahiro , Iwamoto Satoru , Nishiura Hisayo , Maruoka Ryutaro , Chiba Tsutomu , Watanabe Norihiko
Published: February 2014

Clinical manifestations of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) range from mild chronic to acute, sometimes fulminant hepatitis. However, it is unknown how the progression to fatal hepatitis occurs. We developed a mouse model of fatal AIH by inducing a concurrent loss of forkhead box P3+ regulatory T cells and programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)-mediated signaling. In this model, dysregulated follicular helper T cells in the spleen are responsible for the induction, and the C-C chemokine receptor 6/C-C chemokine ligand 20 axis is crucial for the migration of these T cells into the liver. Using this fatal AIH model, we aimed to clarify key molecules triggering fatal AIH progression. During progression, T-bet together with interferon (IFN)-γ and C-X-C chemokine receptor (CXCR)3 were highly expressed in the inflamed liver, suggesting helper T (Th)1-type inflammation. T cells that dominantly expanded in the spleen and the inflamed liver were CXCR3-expressing CD8+ T cells; depletion of these CD8+ T cells suppressed AIH progression. Expression of one CXCR3 ligand, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL)9, was elevated in the liver. CXCL9-expressing macrophages/Kupffer cells were colocalized with infiltrating T cells, and

in vivo

administration of anti-CXCL9 suppressed AIH progression. In addition, serum levels of interleukin (IL)-18, but not IL-1β, were elevated during progression, and dendritic cells in the spleen and liver highly produced IL-18.

In vivo

administration of anti-IL-18R suppressed the increase of splenic CXCR3+ T cells and the progression to fatal AIH. Moreover, tumor necrosis factor alpha, but not IFN-γ, was involved in up-regulating CXCL9 in the liver and for increased serum levels of IL-18.

Conclusion :

These data suggest that, in our mouse model, fatal progression of AIH is mediated by IL-18-dependent differentiation of T cells into Th1 cells and effector T cells, respectively, and that CXCR3-CXCL9 axis-dependent migration of those T cells is crucial for fatal progression. (Hepatology 2014;60:224–236)
Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and alpha-fetoprotein predict prognosis of early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yamashita Taro , Kitao Azusa , Matsui Osamu , Hayashi Takehiro , Nio Kouki , Kondo Mitsumasa , Ohno Naoki , Miyati Tosiaki , Okada Hikari , Yamashita Tatsuya , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Honda Masao , Nakanuma Yasuni , Takamura Hiroyuki , Ohta Tetsuo , Nakamoto Yasunari , Yamamoto Masakazu , Takayama Tadatoshi , Arii Shigeki , Wang XinWei , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: February 2014

The survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often individually different even after surgery for early-stage tumors. Gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-EOB-DTPA)-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been introduced recently to evaluate hepatic lesions with regard to vascularity and the activity of the organic anion transporter OATP1B3. Here we report that Gd-EOB-DTPA-enhanced MRI (EOB-MRI) in combination with serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) status reflects the stem/maturational status of HCC with distinct biology and prognostic information. Gd-EOB-DTPA uptake in the hepatobiliary phase was observed in ˜15% of HCCs. This uptake correlated with low serum AFP levels, maintenance of hepatocyte function with the up-regulation of

OATP1B3

and

HNF4A

expression, and good prognosis. By contrast, HCC showing reduced Gd-EOB-DTPA uptake with high serum AFP levels was associated with poor prognosis and the activation of the oncogene

FOXM1

. Knockdown of

HNF4A

in HCC cells showing Gd-EOB-DTPA uptake resulted in the increased expression of

AFP

and

FOXM1

and the loss of

OATP1B3

expression accompanied by morphological changes, enhanced tumorigenesis, and loss of Gd-EOB-DTPA uptake

in vivo

. HCC classification based on EOB-MRI and serum AFP levels predicted overall survival in a single-institution cohort (n = 70), and its prognostic utility was validated independently in a multi-institution cohort of early-stage HCCs (n = 109).

Conclusion

: This noninvasive classification system is molecularly based on the stem/maturation status of HCCs and can be incorporated into current staging practices to improve management algorithms, especially in the early stage of disease. (Hepatology 2014;60:1674–1685)
Is carcinoma in situ a precursor lesion of invasive breast cancer?
Authors: To Teresa , Wall Claus , Baines Cornelia J. , Miller Anthony B.
Published: February 2014

This study measures the probability of development of invasive breast cancer (BC) following the diagnosis of carcinomas in situ (CIS). A 25‐year prospective follow‐up was conducted by linking the Canadian National Breast Screening Study (CNBSS) to cancer registries and a national vital statistics database. Subsequent BC incidence was identified in CNBSS women who were diagnosed with CIS. CIS was classified into ductal (DCIS) and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). Cumulative cancer incidence probabilities were calculated and a 1:5 matched nested case control study was conducted to estimate the odds of BC development. Of the 146 women diagnosed with CIS, 26 developed invasive BC (17.8%) and 12 died of BC (8.2%). The average time from the diagnosis of CIS to invasive BC was 6.3 years (±5.6). The 20‐year cumulative incidence probabilities for DCIS and LCIS were 19.0% (95%CI: 11.2, 26.8) and 21.3% (95%CI: 7.1, 35.4) respectively. The odds of development of BC in CIS women was significantly elevated compared with controls (OR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.5, 4.5). While women with CIS had a higher odds of development of BC compared to those without CIS, at 20‐year post CIS diagnosis, more than 80% of them remained free of invasive BC. This low probability of developing invasive BC post CIS diagnosis does not support the notion that CIS of the breast is an obligate precursor lesion of invasive BC.
Sixty years of fear appeal research: Current state of the evidence
Authors: Ruiter Robert A. C. , Kessels Loes T. E. , Peters Gjalt‐Jorn Y. , Kok Gerjo
Published: February 2014

Fear arousal is widely used in persuasive campaigns and behavioral change interventions. Yet, experimental evidence argues against the use of threatening health information. The authors reviewed the current state of empirical evidence on the effectiveness of fear appeals. Following a brief overview of the use of fear arousal in health education practice and the structure of effective fear appeals according to two main theoretical frameworks—protection motivation theory and the extended parallel process model—the findings of six meta‐analytic studies in the effectiveness of fear appeals are summarized. It is concluded that coping information aimed at increasing perceptions of response effectiveness and especially self‐efficacy is more important in promoting protective action than presenting threatening health information aimed at increasing risk perceptions and fear arousal. Alternative behavior change methods than fear appeals should be considered.
Osteoporosis Caused by Mutations in PLS3: Clinical and Bone Tissue Characteristics
Authors: Fahiminiya Somayyeh , Majewski Jacek , Al-Jallad Hadil , Moffatt Pierre , Mort John , Glorieux Francis H , Roschger Paul , Klaushofer Klaus , Rauch Frank
Published: February 2014

Mutations in PLS3 have been identified as a cause of bone fragility in children, but the bone phenotype associated with PLS3 mutations has not been reported in detail. PLS3 is located on the X chromosome and encodes the actin-binding protein plastin 3. Here we describe skeletal findings in 4 boys from 2 families with mutations in PLS3 (c.994_995delGA; p.Asp332* in family 1; c.1433T > C; p.Leu478Pro in family 2). When first evaluated between 4 and 8 years of age, these boys had a history of one to four long-bone fractures. Mild vertebral compression fractures were identified in each boy. No obvious extraskeletal disease manifestations were present. Lumbar spine areal bone mineral density (LS-aBMD) Z-scores ranged from –1.7 to –3.5, but height was normal. Iliac bone histomorphometry in 2 patients showed low trabecular bone volume and a low osteoid maturation time but normal bone formation rate and osteoclast surface. Quantitative backscattered electron imaging (qBEI) did not reveal a major abnormality in bone mineralization density distribution. The 2 boys from family 1 received oral alendronate for 6 years, which normalized LS-aBMD. The mothers of the 4 boys did not have a history of fractures and had normal LS-aBMD. However, one of these mothers had low bone mass at the distal radius, as measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). In conclusion, hemizygous mutations in PLS3 are associated with osteoporosis and bone fragility in childhood, but in contrast to bone fragility caused by mutations in collagen type I encoding genes, there is no hypermineralization of mineralized bone matrix. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Effects of Supporting Electrolytes on Spectroelectrochemical and Electrochromic Properties of Polyaniline‐poly(styrene sulfonic acid) and Poly(ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrene sulfonic acid)‐based Electrochromic Device
Authors: Kuo Chung‐Wen , Chen Bor‐Kuan , Li Wen‐Bin , Tseng Lan‐Yu , Wu Tzi‐Yi , Tseng Ching‐Guey , Chen Ho‐Rei , Huang Yu‐Chang
Published: February 2014

Electrochromic devices are fabricated by using polyaniline (PANI) doped with poly(styrene sulfonic acid) (PSS) as coloring electrodes, poly(ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrene sulfonic acid) (PEDOT‐PSS) as complementary electrodes, and hybrid polymer electrolytes as gel electrolytes. The device based on LiClO4‐based electrolyte (weight ratio of PMMA:PC:LiClO4 = 0.7:1.1:0.3) shows the highest optical contrast and coloration efficiency (333 cm2/C) after 1200 cycles in these devices, and the color changes from pale yellow (−0.5 V) to dark blue (+2.5 V). The spectroelectrochemical and electrochromic switching properties of electrochromic devices are investigated, the maximum optical contrast (ΔT%) of electrochromic device for ITO|PANI‐PSS‖PMMA‐PC‐LiClO4‐SiO2‖PEDOT‐PSS|ITO are 31.5% at 640 nm, and electrochromic device based on LiClO4‐based electrolyte with SiO2 shows faster response time than that based on LiClO4‐based electrolyte without SiO2.
P53 Dependent Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Opening Is Required for Dexamethasone‐Induced Death of Osteoblasts
Authors: Zhen Yun‐fang , Wang Guo‐dong , Zhu Lun‐qing , Tan Shi‐ping , Zhang Fu‐yong , Zhou Xiao‐zhong , Wang Xiao‐dong
Published: February 2014

Prolonged or overdose glucocorticoids (GCs) usage is the common cause of osteoporosis. In the present study, we studied the cellular mechanism of dexamethasone (Dex)‐induce osteoblast cell death by focusing on the role of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP). In cultured osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells, Dex‐induced mPTP opening, which was demonstrated by mitochondrial membrane potential (MPP) decrease, cyclophilin‐D (CyPD)–adenine nucleotide translocator 1 (ANT‐1) mitochondrial complexation and cytochrome C (cyto‐C) release. The mPTP inhibitor sanglifehrin A (SfA) dramatically inhibited Dex‐induced MPP loss, cyto‐C release and MC3T3‐E1 cell death. Dex‐induced cell death requires mPTP composing protein CyPD, as CyPD inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA) and CyPD siRNA knockdown inhibited Dex‐induced MC3T3‐E1 cell death, while CyPD overexpression aggravated Dex's cytotoxic effect. We found that Dex induced P53 phosphorylation and translocation to mitochondria, where it formed a complex with CyPD. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) siRNA knockdown, or P53 inhibition (by its inhibitor pifithrin‐α or shRNA silencing) suppressed Dex‐induced CyPD‐P53 mitochondrial association and subsequent MC3T3‐E1 cell death. Finally, in primary cultured osteoblasts, Dex‐induced cell death was inhibited by CsA, SfA or pifithrin‐α. Together, our data suggest that Dex‐induced osteoblast cell death is associated with GR‐P53‐regulated mPTP opening. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1475–1483, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ozonation of 4‐chloro‐2‐methylphenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) in an activated sludge system
Authors: Gimeno Olga , Aguinaco Almudena , Rey Ana , Beltrán Novillo Fernando J. , Toledo Javier Rivas
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of emerging contaminants in treated municipal wastewaters is of increasing concern from health and safety points of view. Existing conventional wastewater treatment plants were not designed to remove these types of contaminants. In this work, the efficacy of an ozonation stage integrated with a biological oxidation process treating municipal urban wastewater spiked with MCPA has been assessed.

RESULTS

Previous aerobic biodegradation experiments showed that MCPA was barely removed from urban wastewater; just 7.2% MCPA conversion was attained in 7 h. Total elimination of herbicide from municipal wastewater was achieved for an ozone dose of 176.5 mg O3 g−1MLVSS. After ozonation in the activated sludge process, the sludge volumetric index significantly decreased in all cases regardless of the ozonation time applied. An ozone quantity of 85.1 mg O3 g−1 MLVSS dramatically reduced the amount of filamentous bacteria (20 min ozone exposure). 40 min of ozone exposure also eliminated filamentous bacteria, although this high applied dose started to affect protozoa viability.

CONCLUSIONS

Ozone applied directly in the biodegradation process favours MCPA elimination also improving activated settling properties. Under the conditions used, ozone is a selective disinfectant not affecting the key groups of microfauna responsible for the activated sludge process. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Pervaporation of water/ethanol mixtures through polyimide based mixed matrix membranes containing ZIF‐8, ordered mesoporous silica and ZIF‐8‐silica core‐shell spheres
Authors: Kudasheva Alina , Sorribas Sara , Zornoza Beatriz , Téllez Carlos , Coronas Joaquín
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

Pervaporation (PV) is a prospective industrial process for the separation of liquid mixtures such as azeotropic and close‐boiling point. PV efficiency depends mainly on the properties of the membrane used. Hence, designing a membrane structure with high permeation rate and separation factor is an important issue.

RESULTS

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) containing a number of molecular sieves, i.e. metal organic framework ZIF‐8, ordered mesoporous MCM‐41 silica spheres of two sizes, 3.1 µm (MSS‐1) and 0.53 µm (MSS‐2), and ordered mesoporous silica‐(ZIF‐8) core‐shell spheres (MSS‐Z8), were prepared at different filler loadings using polyimide (PI) Matrimid® 5218 as polymeric matrix and applied in the dehydration of ethanol via PV. With MSS‐2 MMMs the PV flux was improved from 0.24 to 0.44 kg m−2 h−1 without significant changes in the separation factor compared with the bare PI membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

PV performance of the PI membrane was improved by adding different fillers to the polymer matrix, and the effect of porosity, hydrophilicity and particle size of the filler on the PV results was analyzed. The best result in terms of PV performance was obtained with 12 wt% MSS‐2 MMM, where the use of smaller particles yielded a superior particle–polymer interfacial area and provided better accessibility to the hydrophilic silica pores. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
The evolving role of the pediatric nurse practitioner in hospital medicine
Authors: Wall Stacey , Scudamore Douglas , Chin James , Rannie Michael , Tong Suhong , Reese Jennifer , Wilson Karen
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

This program evaluation sought to compare cost and pediatric patient outcomes among a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) hospitalist team, a combined PNP/doctor of medicine (MD) team, and 2 resident teams without PNPs.

METHODS

Administrative and electronic medical record data from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010 was retrospectively reviewed from Children's Hospital Colorado inpatient medical unit and inpatient satellite sites in the Children's Hospital network of care (NOC). The top 3 All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (APR‐DRG) admission codes bronchiolitis and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) pneumonia, pneumonia not elsewhere classified (NEC), and asthma were selected for this analysis. Inpatient records representing these APR‐DRG admission codes were reviewed (N = 1664). Measures included adherence with relevant clinical care guidelines (CCGs), length of stay (LOS), and cost of care. Chi square, t tests, and analysis of variance were used to analyze between‐group differences.

RESULTS

Approximately 20% of these admissions were on the PNP team, 45% were on the resident teams, and 35% were on the PNP/MD team in the NOC. PNP adherence to CCGs was comparable to resident teams for selected measures. There was no significant difference in LOS among the PNP team, the PNP/MD team, and the resident teams. The direct cost of patient care per encounter provided by the PNP team was significantly less than the PNP/MD team and the resident teams.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence to suggest that PNP hospitalists provide inpatient care comparable to resident teams at a lower cost for patients with uncomplicated bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2014;9:261–265. © 2014 Society of Hospital Medicine
Precipitation reconstruction for the Czech Lands, AD 1501–2010
Authors: Dobrovolný Petr , Brázdil Rudolf , Trnka Mirek , Kotyza Oldřich , Valášek Hubert
Published: February 2014

This contribution employs documentary‐based precipitation indices and long homogenized series of precipitation totals for quantitative reconstruction of seasonal and annual precipitation in the Czech Lands (now the Czech Republic) from AD 1501. Final calibration is based on linear regression using fully independent indices and data measured during the 1804–1854 overlap period, with subsequent variance scaling. Correlation analysis demonstrates that Czech documentary indices explain a significant amount of precipitation variability in all months and seasons of the entire overlapping period. Reconstruction results are best for annual values and for autumn (SON), for which proxy and target data share 36% of common variability. The coefficient of determination for summer (June‐July‐August – JJA) is 35%, for spring (March‐April‐May – MAM) 33%, while for winter (December‐January‐February – DJF) it is only 26%. Verification statistics [reduction of error (RE), coefficient of efficiency (CE)] computed for early (1804–1829) and late (1830–1854) overlapping periods indicate acceptable reconstruction skill for precipitation indices in JJA and annual values. However, for the other seasons they failed in the early or late calibration period, indicating possible chronological instability of reconstruction results in MAM, SON (September‐October‐November), and DJF seasons. The final reconstructions are complemented with uncertainty estimates. Reconstructed Czech precipitation series do not indicate long‐term trends but reveal quite high inter‐annual and inter‐decadal variability. Smoothed reconstructed DJF and JJA precipitation totals show the highest values in the second part of the 16th century, while the driest 30‐year period occurred during the 18th century in DJF, MAM, JJA, and in annual series. Direct comparisons with two other reconstructions (tree‐ring‐based for southern Moravia and gridded multi‐proxy for Central Europe) not only show significant correlations for a substantial part of the common period, but also disclose several periods with loss of coherence. Finally, uncertainties in reconstructions are discussed.
Effect of freezing on the release rate of gentamicin palmitate and gentamicin sulfate from bone tissue
Authors: Coraça‐Huber Débora C. , Wurm Alexander , Fille Manfred , Hausdorfer Johann , Nogler Michael , Kühn Klaus‐Dieter
Published: February 2014

In this study we evaluated gentamicin palmitate salt and gentamicin sulfate salt mixed with bone chips after storage at −80°C. Different concentration rates of gentamicin sulfate and gentamicin palmitate were mixed with human bone chips and stored for 1–6 months at −80°C. Nonstored samples were used as control. The release of the antibiotics from the bone was carried out in phosphate‐buffered saline. Antibiotic concentrations in the elutions were determined with microbiological agar diffusion assay using Bacillus subtilis. Susceptibility tests were carried out using Staphylococci strains. The rate of gentamicin base (GB) released from bone was similar for all gentamicin salts and all storage conditions. The elutions released were efficient on reducing S. aureus and S. epidermidis CFU during all storage time. In resume, the capacity of bone grafts to act as gentamicin carriers has been confirmed in this study. GS + GP showed equivalent efficacy against S. aureus and S. epidermidis compared with GS pure. The lower delivery rate of GS + GP, related to its affinity with fat tissue can be an advantage for longer release times, increasing the local protection against infections. Storage at −80°C does not interfere on the gentamicin salts activity used. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:842–847, 2014.
Screening DNA chip and event‐specific multiplex PCR detection methods for biotech crops
Authors: Lee Seong‐Hun
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

There are about 80 biotech crop events that have been approved by safety assessment in Korea. They have been controlled by genetically modified organism (GMO) and living modified organism (LMO) labeling systems. The DNA‐based detection method has been used as an efficient scientific management tool. Recently, the multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA chip have been developed as simultaneous detection methods for several biotech crops' events.

RESULTS

The event‐specific multiplex PCR method was developed to detect five biotech maize events: MIR604, Event 3272, LY 038, MON 88017 and DAS‐59122‐7. The specificity was confirmed and the sensitivity was 0.5%. The screening DNA chip was developed from four endogenous genes of soybean, maize, cotton and canola respectively along with two regulatory elements and seven genes: P35S, tNOS, pat, bar, epsps1, epsps2, pmi, cry1Ac and cry3B. The specificity was confirmed and the sensitivity was 0.5% for four crops' 12 events: one soybean, six maize, three cotton and two canola events.

CONCLUSION

The multiplex PCR and DNA chip can be available for screening, gene‐specific and event‐specific analysis of biotech crops as efficient detection methods by saving on workload and time. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
A high‐efficiency holographic waveguide display system with a prism in‐coupler
Authors: Wu Zhengming , Liu Juan , Wang Yongtian
Published: February 2014

Holographic waveguide display system with high efficiency is presented by embedding an in‐coupling prism and an out‐coupling reflective volume holographic element, which enables a small‐type configuration. The improved coupling scheme can achieve 25% efficiency and the chromatic is corrected properly.
Kinetics and Mechanism of Redox Reaction between Tetrachloroaurate(III) Ions and Hydrazine
Authors: Streszewski Bartłomiej , Jaworski Wiktor , Szaciłowski Konrad , Pacławski Krzysztof
Published: February 2014

ABSTRACT: In this work, the kinetics and mechanism of a redox reaction between the [AuCl4]− complex ions and hydrazine in aqueous solution were carried out. Using a combination of the classical UV–vis spectrophotometry and the stopped‐flow technique, the impact of different parameters, such as pH, ionic strength, temperature, the presence of chloride ions, and [AuCl4]− and N2H5+ concentrations on the rate constant of [AuCl4]− reduction was investigated. From the obtained results, the rate law of the reaction was determined and the possible mechanism of a one‐electron inner‐sphere reaction was suggested. It has been found that the reaction is complex and consists of at least two consecutive steps with the gold(I) formation, which can be further reduced to a metallic form as a final product of the reaction.
Five‐year hearing results with the shape memory nitinol stapes prosthesis
Authors: Lavy Jeremy , Khalil Sherif
Published: February 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the long‐term (5‐year) results of the shape‐memory nitinol stapes piston in the surgical treatment of otosclerosis.

Study Design

Retrospective case review in a tertiary referral center.

Methods

The patients were adults with clinically proven otosclerosis undergoing stapedotomy. Stapedotomy and ossicular chain reconstruction using a shape‐memory nitinol stapes piston were performed. The main outcome measure was masked air and bone conduction audiometry.

Results

Forty‐eight out of a potential 58 ears had complete audiometric data. The mean preoperative air‐bone gap was 29.2 dB (standard deviation [SD] 9.4). The postoperative gap at 1 year was 4.6 dB (SD 3.1), and P at 5 years was 7.0 dB (SD 6.2).

Conclusions

These data suggest that the Smart piston provides a stable long‐term hearing result in the surgical treatment of otosclerosis.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:2591–2593, 2014
Modification of the lund‐kennedy endoscopic scoring system improves its reliability and correlation with patient‐reported outcome measures
Authors: Psaltis Alkis J. , Li Gang , Vaezeafshar Reza , Cho Kyu‐Sup , Hwang Peter H.
Published: February 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To compare three existing endoscopic scoring systems and a newly proposed modified scoring system for the assessment of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Study Design

Blinded, prospective cohort study.

Methods

CRS patients completed two patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs)—the visual analogue scale (VAS) symptom score and the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 (SNOT‐22)—and then underwent a standardized, recorded sinonasal endoscopy. Videos were scored by three blinded rhinologists using three scoring systems: the Lund‐Kennedy (LK) endoscopic score; the Discharge, Inflammation, Polyp (DIP) score; and the Perioperative Sinonasal Endoscopic score. The videos were further scored using a modified Lund‐Kennedy (MLK) endoscopic scoring system, which retains the LK subscores of polyps, edema, and discharge but eliminates the scoring of scarring and crusting. The systems were compared for test‐retest and inter‐rater reliability as well as for their correlation with PROMs.

Results

One hundred two CRS patients were enrolled. The MLK system showed the highest inter‐rater and test‐retest reliability of all scoring systems. All systems except for the DIP correlated with total VAS scores. The MLK was the only system that correlated with the symptom subscore of the SNOT‐22 in both unoperated and postoperative patients.

Conclusions

Modification of the LK system by excluding the subscores of scarring and crusting improves its reliability and its correlation with PROMs. In addition, the MLK system retains the familiarity of the widely used LK system and is applicable to any patient irrespective of surgical status. The MLK system may be a more suitable and reliable endoscopic scoring system for clinical practice and outcomes research.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope 124:2216–2223, 2014
Trapped photons at a Dirac point: a new horizon for photonic crystals
Authors: Xie Kang , Jiang Haiming , Boardman Allan D. , Liu Yong , Wu Zhenhai , Xie Ming , Jiang Ping , Xu Quan , Yu Ming , Davis Lionel E.
Published: February 2014

Optical cavities and waveguides are essential building blocks of many modern optical devices. They rely upon photonic bandgaps, or total internal reflections, to achieve field confinement. Here a new phenomenon is reported of wave localization that is attributable to neither of the above light guiding mechanisms. It is found that what is known as the Dirac point within a photonic band structure can play the role of a photonic bandgap with the establishment of field confinement. The new localized mode occurs at a Dirac frequency that is beyond any complete photonic bandgap, and exhibits a unique algebraic profile. The features of this new wave localization will add new capabilities and more flexibility to the design techniques of novel photonic components and photonic chip architectures.
Health-related quality of life: Two decades after liver transplantation
Authors: Sullivan Kara M. , Radosevich David M. , Lake John R.
Published: February 2014

In this study, we describe a cohort of patients who received liver transplants before January 1, 1989 at the University of Minnesota Medical Center (UMMC), and we evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of the survivors of this group. One hundred sixty-one patients—66 adults and 95 children—received whole deceased donor liver transplants. Thirteen transplants occurred before 1980, and all these patients died within 6 months; they were excluded from the survival analysis because they came from the pre-cyclosporine era. The survival rates at 1, 5, 10, and 20 years were 72%, 57%, 49%, and 37%, respectively (34% when pre-1980 patients were included). The median survival time was approximately 10 years for adult and pediatric recipients. The causes of death were ascertained by chart reviews. Technical failures were common between the years 1980 and 1984, and they decreased to 0% by 1988. As for HRQOL, 53 patients (36%) survived and were contacted to complete a 12-item health survey [Short Form 12 (SF-12)]. Retransplants were excluded. Sixty-eight percent returned the SF-12 survey. The median age for all respondents was 31.4 years: the median was 67.4 years for adult survivors and 28.8 years for pediatric survivors. The Mental Component Summary (MCS) score was 54.6 for adult survivors and 48.6 for pediatric survivors. The Physical Component Summary (PCS) score was 39.3 for adult survivors and 49.2 for pediatric survivors. Both the MCS and the PCS were norm-based to the US population with a mean of 50 and a standard deviation of 10. In conclusion, 35.8% of liver transplant recipients from UMMC were alive 20 years after liver transplantation. Technical failure–related deaths decreased dramatically from 1980 to 1988. The mental health of pediatric and adult survivors was similar to that of the general population. The physical health of the pediatric survivors was equivalent to that of the general population, but it was slightly less than what was expected with adjustments for age. The physical health of the adult survivors was approximately 1 standard deviation below that of the general population. Liver Transpl 20:649-654, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Functionalization of TiO2 Nanoparticles with Semiconducting Polymers Containing a Photocleavable Anchor Group and Separation via Irradiation Afterward
Authors: Mathias Florian , Tahir Muhammad Nawaz , Tremel Wolfgang , Zentel Rudolf
Published: February 2014

The controlled radical polymerization (RAFT polymerization) of semiconducting polymers based on poly(4,4′‐dimethyl‐triphenylamine) is described. These polymers are afterward end‐functionalized with a photocleavable group and an anchor unit (catechol) for oxidic nanoparticles (NPs). Serving as a reference, polystyrene oligomers with the same end groups are also synthesized. Using these polymers allows functionalization of the TiO2‐NPs, leading to an improved solubility and miscibility in organic solvents or polymer matrices. Irradiation in the UV region is used to split the photocleavable group and remove the polymer chains from the NPs, which leads to their aggregation.

image
Patterns of cortical thinning in idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Rahayel Shady , Montplaisir Jacques , Monchi Oury , Bedetti Christophe , Postuma Ronald B. , Brambati Simona , Carrier Julie , Joubert Sven , Latreille Véronique , Jubault Thomas , Gagnon Jean‐François
Published: February 2014

Idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder is a parasomnia that is a risk factor for dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease. Brain function impairments have been identified in this disorder, mainly in the frontal and posterior cortical regions. However, the anatomical support for these dysfunctions remains poorly understood. We investigated gray matter thickness, gray matter volume, and white matter integrity in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. Twenty‐four patients with polysomnography‐confirmed idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and 42 healthy individuals underwent a 3‐tesla structural and diffusion magnetic resonance imaging examination using corticometry, voxel‐based morphometry, and diffusion tensor imaging. In the patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, decreased cortical thickness was observed in the frontal cortex, the lingual gyrus, and the fusiform gyrus. Gray matter volume was reduced in the superior frontal sulcus only. Patients showed no increased gray matter thickness or volume. Diffusion tensor imaging analyses revealed no significant white matter differences between groups. Using corticometry in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, several new cortical regions with gray matter alterations were identified, similar to those reported in dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease. These findings provide some anatomical support for previously identified brain function impairments in this disorder. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Rate of decline in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Litvan Irene , Kong Maiying
Published: February 2014

The rate of patients' decline is critical to properly design trials of disease‐modifying agents. We prospectively quantified the progression of 27 progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) patients for at least 1 year to determine the rate of decline of motor, ocular‐motor, neuropsychological, and neuropsychiatric features. PSP patients meeting the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and the Society for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy criteria were assessed using the PSP Rating Scale (PSP‐RS) and modified UPDRS. The Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Frontal Assessment Battery assessed cognitive decline, the Neuropsychiatric Inventory assessed behavior, and the modified Schwab and England scale and UPDRS ADL assessed activities of daily living (ADL). The rate of change of each score was calculated as 1‐year worsening score. Power and sample sizes were estimated. PSP patients showed a significant yearly decline in total and subtotal scores of the PSP‐RS and UPDRS, as well as in MMSE, and UPDRS and Schwab and England ADL scores. In addition, they had significant deterioration of individual item scores reflecting major aspects of the disease (i.e., ocular‐motor). The rate of decline reflected in the UPDRS mirrored that of the PSP‐RS. The worsening of the ADL score was positively correlated with the PSP‐RS progression of falls and ocular‐motor subitem scores and with executive dysfunction. PSP patients showed a significant yearly decline in motor, ocular‐motor, and ADL functions. Our findings suggest that using more‐advanced technology to measure ocular‐motor, postural instability, and ADL will be helpful in planning future therapeutic trials. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Simultaneous acquisition of image and navigator slices using CAIPIRINHA for 4D MRI
Authors: Celicanin Zarko , Bieri Oliver , Preiswerk Frank , Cattin Philippe , Scheffler Klaus , Santini Francesco
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Respiratory organ motion is still the major challenge of various image‐guided treatments in the abdomen. Dynamic organ motion tracking, necessary for the treatment control, can be performed with volumetric time‐resolved MRI that sequentially acquires one image and one navigator slice. Here, a novel imaging method is proposed for truly simultaneous high temporal resolution acquisition.

Methods

A standard balanced steady state free precession sequence was modified to simultaneously acquire two superimposed slices with different phase cycles, namely an image and a navigator slice. Instead of multiband RF pulses, two separate RF pulses were used for the excitation. Images were reconstructed using offline CAIPIRINHA reconstruction. Phantom and in vivo measurements of healthy volunteers were performed and evaluated.

Results

Phantom and in vivo measurements showed good image quality with high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and no reconstruction issues.

Conclusion

We present a novel imaging method for truly simultaneous acquisition of image and navigator slices for four‐dimensional (4D) MRI of organ motion. In this method, the time lag between the sequential acquisitions is eliminated, leading to an improved accuracy of organ motion models, while CAIPIRINHA reconstruction results in an improved SNR compared with an existing 4D MRI approach. Magn Reson Med 73:669–676, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vivo31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the human liver at 7 T: an initial experience
Authors: Chmelik Marek , Považan Michal , Krššák Martin , Gruber Stephan , Tkačov Martin , Trattnig Siegfried , Bogner Wolfgang
Published: February 2014

Phosphorus (31P) MRS is a powerful tool for the non‐invasive investigation of human liver metabolism. Four in vivo 31P localization approaches (single voxel image selected in vivo spectroscopy (3D‐ISIS), slab selective 1D‐ISIS, 2D chemical shift imaging (CSI), and 3D‐CSI) with different voxel volumes and acquisition times were demonstrated in nine healthy volunteers. Localization techniques provided comparable signal‐to‐noise ratios normalized for voxel volume and acquisition time differences, Cramer–Rao lower bounds (8.7 ± 3.3%1D‐ISIS, 7.6 ± 2.5%3D‐ISIS, 8.6 ± 4.2%2D‐CSI, 10.3 ± 2.7%3D‐CSI), and linewidths (50 ± 24 Hz1D‐ISIS, 34 ± 10 Hz3D‐ISIS, 33 ± 10 Hz2D‐CSI, 34 ± 11 Hz3D‐CSI).

Longitudinal (T1) relaxation times of human liver metabolites at 7 T were assessed by 1D‐ISIS inversion recovery in the same volunteers (n = 9). T1 relaxation times of hepatic 31P metabolites at 7 T were the following: phosphorylethanolamine – 4.41 ± 1.55 s; phosphorylcholine – 3.74 ± 1.31 s; inorganic phosphate – 0.70 ± 0.33 s; glycerol 3‐phosphorylethanolamine – 6.19 ± 0.91 s; glycerol 3‐phosphorylcholine – 5.94 ± 0.73 s; γ‐adenosine triphosphate (ATP) – 0.50 ± 0.08 s; α‐ATP – 0.46 ± 0.07 s; β‐ATP – 0.56 ± 0.07 s. The improved spectral resolution at 7 T enabled separation of resonances in the phosphomonoester and phosphodiester spectral region as well as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and uridine diphosphoglucose signals. An additional resonance at 2.06 ppm previously assigned to phosphoenolpyruvate or phosphatidylcholine is also detectable.

These are the first 31P metabolite relaxation time measurements at 7 T in human liver, and they will help in the exploration of new, exciting questions in metabolic research with 7 T MR. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrated network design and scheduling problems with parallel identical machines: Complexity results and dispatching rules
Authors: Nurre Sarah G. , Sharkey Thomas C.
Published: February 2014

We consider the class of integrated network design and scheduling (INDS) problems that focus on selecting and scheduling operations that will change the characteristics of a network, while being specifically concerned with the performance of the network over time. Motivating applications of INDS problems include infrastructure restoration after an extreme event and building humanitarian logistics networks. We examine INDS problems under a parallel identical machine scheduling environment where the performance of the network is evaluated by solving classic network optimization problems. We prove that all considered INDS problems are NP‐hard. We propose a novel heuristic dispatching rule algorithm framework that selects and schedules sets of arcs based on their interactions in the network. These interactions are measured by examining network optimality conditions. Computational testing of these dispatching rules on realistic data sets representing infrastructure networks of lower Manhattan, New York demonstrates that they arrive at near‐optimal solutions in real‐time.Copyright © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 63(4), 306–326 2014
Hyperlipidaemia impairs the circadian clock and physiological homeostasis of vascular smooth muscle cells via the suppression of Smarcd1
Authors: Chen Siyu , Ding Yan , Zhang Zhao , Wang Han , Liu Chang
Published: February 2014

Many mammalian physiological processes show diurnal oscillation and are controlled by a circadian clock. Disruption of the circadian clock has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders, but the mechanism through which clock and vessel function are integrated is unclear. Here we show that the rhythmicity of key clock genes and Smarcd1, a member of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling complex family, is suppressed in the layer of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of the thoracic aorta of hyperlipidaemic rats fed a high‐fat diet (HFD). Smarcd1 stimulates the transcription of clock genes, notably bmal1, through co‐activation of the nuclear orphan receptor RORα in VSMCs. The co‐activation of Smarcd1 and RORα is dependent on the mediation of PGC‐1α, a transcriptional co‐activator. Pathophysiologically, Smarcd1 inhibits VSMC proliferation and migration by blocking cell cycle re‐entry and via the activation of kinase signalling pathways. Our results demonstrate that Smarcd1 is a critical node integrating the circadian clock and VSMC physiological homeostasis. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morgana acts as a proto‐oncogene through inhibition of a ROCK–PTEN pathway
Authors: Fusella Federica , Ferretti Roberta , Recupero Daniele , Rocca Stefania , Di Savino Augusta , Tornillo Giusy , Silengo Lorenzo , Turco Emilia , Cabodi Sara , Provero Paolo , Pandolfi Pier Paolo , Sapino Anna , Tarone Guido , Brancaccio Mara
Published: February 2014

Morgana/CHP‐1 is a ubiquitously expressed protein able to inhibit ROCK II kinase activity. We have previously demonstrated that morgana haploinsufficiency leads to multiple centrosomes, genomic instability, and higher susceptibility to tumour development. While a large fraction of human cancers has shown morgana down‐regulation, a small subset of tumours was shown to express high morgana levels. Here we demonstrate that high morgana expression in different breast cancer subtypes correlates with high tumour grade, mitosis number, and lymph node positivity. Moreover, morgana overexpression induces transformation in NIH‐3T3 cells and strongly protects them from various apoptotic stimuli. From a mechanistic point of view, we demonstrate that morgana causes PTEN destabilization, by inhibiting ROCK activity, hence triggering the PI3K/AKT survival pathway. In turn, morgana down‐regulation in breast cancer cells that express high morgana levels increases PTEN expression and leads to sensitization of cells to chemotherapy. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
ACR appropriateness Criteria® pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Terezakis Stephanie A. , Metzger Monika L. , Hodgson David C. , Schwartz Cindy L. , Advani Ranjana , Flowers Christopher R. , Hoppe Bradford S. , Ng Andrea , Roberts Kenneth B. , Shapiro Ronald , Wilder Richard B. , Yunes Michael J. , Constine Louis S.
Published: February 2014

Pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma is a highly curable malignancy and potential long‐term effects of therapy need to be considered in optimizing clinical care. An expert panel was convened to reach consensus on the most appropriate approach to evaluation and treatment of pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence‐based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed every 2 years by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and review include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer reviewed journals and the application of a well‐established consensus methodology (modified Delphi) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures by the panel. In those instances where evidence is lacking or not definitive, expert opinion may be used to recommend imaging or treatment. Four clinical variants were developed to assess common clinical scenarios and render recommendations for evaluation and treatment approaches to pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma. We provide a summary of the literature as well as numerical ratings with commentary. By combining available data in published literature and expert medical opinion, we present a consensus to the approach for management of pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1305–1312. © 2014 American College of Radiology.
Invasive bacterial and fungal infections in paediatric patients with cancer: Incidence, risk factors, aetiology and outcomes in a UK regional cohort 2009–2011
Authors: Calton Elizabeth A. , Le Doaré Kirsty , Appleby Gayle , Chisholm Julia C. , Sharland Mike , Ladhani Shamez N. ,   CABIN Participants
Published: February 2014

Background

Cancer is the second most common cause of childhood deaths in the United Kingdom and infection contributes to a quarter of all cancer‐related deaths. This study aimed to estimate the risk, aetiology and outcome of bloodstream bacterial and fungal infections in children with cancer within a geographically defined region in South‐West London over a 3‐year period.

Methods

Web‐based questionnaires were completed using case records of children with positive blood cultures admitted to five London hospitals during 2009–2011.

Results

A total of 112 children with a median age of 5.4 (IQR 3.6–11.2) years had 266 significant blood cultures during 149 infection episodes. Haematological malignancy affected 68 patients (60.7%) and solid tumours 44 (39.3%). The overall bloodstream infection rate was 1.5 episodes per 1,000 days‐at‐risk (95% CI, 1.2–1.8) and was similar for those with haematological malignancies and solid tumours. Most episodes were attributed to central venous catheter infection (120/149, 80.5%). Coagulase‐negative staphylococci were isolated in almost half the bloodstream infections (127/266; 47.7%), while Gram‐negative organisms accounted for a further quarter (64/266; 24.1%). Fungal isolates from blood were uncommon (8/112 children, 7.1%) but significantly associated with neutropenia (18/149 [12.1%] vs. 1/114 [0.9%], P = 0.0004). Six children (5.4%) died, including three (2.7%; 95% CI, 0.6–7.6%) whose deaths were infection‐related.

Conclusions

This study provides an updated risk estimate for bloodstream infections in children with cancer and adds to the framework for developing evidence‐based guidance for management of suspected infections in this highly vulnerable group. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1239–1245. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.