bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Selective Upgrading of Biomass‐Derived Alcohol Mixtures for Jet/Diesel‐Fuel Components
Authors: Liu Qiang , Xu Guoqiang , Wang Xicheng , Liu Xiaoran , Mu Xindong
Published: November 2016

In light of the increasing concern about the energy and environmental problems caused by the combustion of petroleum‐based fuels (e.g., jet and diesel fuels), the development of new procedures for their sustainable production from renewable biomass‐derived platform compounds has attracted tremendous attention recently. Long‐chain ketones/alcohols are promising fuel components owing to the fuel properties that closely resemble those of traditional fuels. The focus of this report is the production of long‐chain ketones/alcohols by direct upgrading of biomass‐derived short‐chain alcohol mixtures (e.g., isopropanol–butanol–ethanol mixtures) in pure water. An efficient Pd catalyst system was developed for these highly selective transformations. Long‐chain ketones/alcohols (C8–C19), which can be used as precursors for renewable jet/diesel fuel, were obtained in good‐to‐high selectivity (>90 %) by using the developed Pd catalyst.
Influence of Binders and Solvents on Stability of Ru/RuOx Nanoparticles on ITO Nanocrystals as Li–O2 Battery Cathodes
Authors: Vankova Svetoslava , Francia Carlotta , Amici Julia , Zeng Juqin , Bodoardo Silvia , Penazzi Nerino , Collins Gillian , Geaney Hugh , O'Dwyer Colm
Published: November 2016

Fundamental research on Li–O2 batteries remains critical, and the nature of the reactions and stability are paramount for realising the promise of the Li–O2 system. We report that indium tin oxide (ITO) nanocrystals with supported 1–2 nm oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalyst Ru/RuOx nanoparticles (NPs) demonstrate efficient OER processes, reduce the recharge overpotential of the cell significantly and maintain catalytic activity to promote a consistent cycling discharge potential in Li–O2 cells even when the ITO support nanocrystals deteriorate from the very first cycle. The Ru/RuOx nanoparticles lower the charge overpotential compared with those for ITO and carbon‐only cathodes and have the greatest effect in DMSO electrolytes with a solution‐processable F‐free carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) binder (<3.5 V) instead of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). The Ru/RuOx/ITO nanocrystalline materials in DMSO provide efficient Li2O2 decomposition from within the cathode during cycling. We demonstrate that the ITO is actually unstable from the first cycle and is modified by chemical etching, but the Ru/RuOx NPs remain effective OER catalysts for Li2O2 during cycling. The CMC binders avoid PVDF‐based side‐reactions and improve the cyclability. The deterioration of the ITO nanocrystals is mitigated significantly in cathodes with a CMC binder, and the cells show good cycle life. In mixed DMSO–EMITFSI [EMITFSI=1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide] ionic liquid electrolytes, the Ru/RuOx/ITO materials in Li–O2 cells cycle very well and maintain a consistently very low charge overpotential of 0.5–0.8 V.
Imidazolium‐Functionalized Carbon Nanohorns for the Conversion of Carbon Dioxide: Unprecedented Increase of Catalytic Activity after Recycling
Authors: Calabrese Carla , Liotta Leonarda F. , Carbonell Esther , Giacalone Francesco , Gruttadauria Michelangelo , Aprile Carmela
Published: November 2016

Six new hybrid materials composed of carbon nanohorns (CNHs) and highly cross‐linked imidazolium salts were easily synthesized using a one‐step procedure based on the radical oligomerization of bis‐vinylimidazolium salts (bVImiX) in the presence of pristine CNHs. The hybrid materials were characterized and employed as the sole catalysts for the conversion of carbon dioxide into cyclic carbonate by reaction with epoxides. The solids displayed excellent turnover number and productivity. Moreover, four catalysts were investigated in recycling experiments. Two catalysts containing an octyl linker between the imidazolium units and a bromide or an iodide anion showed no loss in activity after three cycles. The other two catalysts containing a p‐xylyl linker and a bromide anion and different CNHs/bVImiX ratios showed an unprecedented increase of activity after recycling.
Functionalization of Polypyrrole Nanopipes with Redox‐Active Polyoxometalates for High Energy Density Supercapacitors
Authors: Dubal Deepak P. , Ballesteros Belén , Mohite Ashwini A. , Gómez‐Romero Pedro
Published: November 2016

Hybrid materials are very attractive for the fabrication of high‐performance supercapacitors. Here, we have explored organic–inorganic hybrid materials based on open‐end porous 1 D polypyrrole nanopipes (PPy‐NPipes) and heteropolyoxometalates (phosphotungstate ([PW12O40]3−, PW12) or phosphomolybdate ([PMo12O40]3−, PMo12)) that display excellent areal capacitances. Two different hybrid materials (PMo12@PPy and PW12@PPy) were effectively synthesized and used for symmetric supercapacitors. The anchoring of the inorganic nanoclusters onto the conducting polymer nanopipes led to electrodes that stood up to our best expectations exhibiting outstanding areal capacitances that are almost 1.5 to 2 fold higher than that of pristine PPy‐NPipes. In addition, symmetric cells based on PMo12@PPy and PW12@PPy hybrid electrodes were fabricated and showed significant improvement in cell performance with very high volumetric capacitances in the range of 6.3–6.8 F cm−3 (considering the volume of whole device). Indeed, they provide extended potential windows in acidic electrolytes (up to 1.5 V) which led to ultrahigh energy densities of 1.5 and 2.2 mWh cm−3 for PMo12@PPy and PW12@PPy cells, respectively. Thus, these unique organic‐inorganic hybrid symmetric cells displayed extraordinary electrochemical performances far exceeding those of more complex asymmetric systems.
The Fate of Cycloruthenated Compounds: From C–H Activation to Innovative Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Gaiddon Christian , Pfeffer Michel
Published: November 2016

Among the various applications of metal‐based compounds, those that involve catalytic properties and biological activity have been the goals of quests by many research teams throughout the world. We mainly concentrate in this short review article on the anticancer properties of a certain class of organometallic ruthenium compounds: the cyclometalated derivatives that have been studied in the last decade. We emphasize the apparent contradiction between the known reactivity of the carbon–metal bonds in these species towards nucleophilic and electrophilic reagents and the fact that these bonds most probably survive the harsh reaction conditions that exist in most of the catalytic media and probably also in the biologic media. We focus on the mechanisms of action of the cycloruthenated molecules in terms of their anticancer properties and thus reveal some of the most recent findings on the potential modes of action of these compounds in cancer cells, which open new therapeutic perspectives.
Vitamin B12–Metal Conjugates for Targeted Chemotherapy and Diagnosis: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Pettenuzzo Andrea , Pigot Rebecca , Ronconi Luca
Published: November 2016

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is a vital nutrient characterized by very low bioavailability. Owing to their extremely high proliferation rates, tumor cells show increased demand for nutrients in comparison with healthy ones, including the greater uptake of vitamin B12. This avidity for cyanocobalamin can thus be exploited for the site‐specific delivery of drugs directly into tumor cells by conjugation of vitamin B12 (carrier) to either chemotherapeutic or diagnostic agents. In particular, tailored cobalamin‐containing substrates can be conjugated to metal‐based drugs to achieve targeted delivery into the affected tissues, thus accomplishing biomolecular recognition and tumor selectivity. Progress in the development of metal–vitamin B12 conjugates for medicinal applications is summarized and discussed.
Synthesis and Characterisation of Heterobimetallic Lanthanoid O‐Based Cluster/Cages
Authors: Andrews Philip C. , Bousrez Guillaume , Junk Peter C. , Thielemann Dominique T. , Werrett Melissa V.
Published: November 2016

The synthesis of new mono‐ and bimetallic lanthanoid cluster compounds is reported. The metal‐to metal ratios of tetra‐ and pentanuclear clusters were determined by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS). The EDS results show that, for an equal proportion of lanthanide salts introduced, different metal‐to‐metal ratios are achieved in the clusters. This ratio appears to be dependent on the size and electron density of the metal atoms. Studies realized the best conditions to achieve a 1:1 ratio.
Cationic Polyene Cyclization for Taiwaniaquinoid Construction
Authors: Graham Marlowe , Baker Robert W. , McErlean Christopher S. P.
Published: November 2016

An acid‐catalyzed polyene cyclization has been used to rapidly generate the 6/5/6‐fused ring system of the taiwaniaquinoid natural products. The cis‐fused diastereomer was formed selectively, which enabled a step‐efficient synthesis of (±)‐5‐epi‐taiwaniaquinone G.
Synthesis of Magnetic Molecular Complexes with Fullerene Anchor Groups
Authors: Nuin Edurne , Bauer Walter , Hirsch Andreas
Published: November 2016

A series of tailor‐made paramagnetic bis‐fullerene derivatives capable of bridging two adjacent graphene (G) sheets for performing magnetic single‐molecule junctions (SMJs) have been developed. Specifically, magnetic molecular wires consisting of two highly π‐conjugated (phenylethynyl, bis‐phenylethynyl or naphthylethynyl) linker moieties coordinated to FeII and CoII spin‐crossover (SC) complexes in an octahedral environment and endowed with fullerene (C60) end‐groups have been synthesized. The use of C60 units as anchoring groups improves the contact between the G electrodes in comparison with conventional Au‐selective groups. This novel synthetic pathway provides access to a completely new family of SC compounds suitable for the development of SMJs using graphene nanoelectrodes.
Engineering Molecular Topology: A Pseudopeptidic Macrocyclic Figure‐Eight Motif
Authors: Sharma Sakshi , Thorat Shridhar H. , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Jasinski Jerry P , Butcher Ray , Haridas V.
Published: November 2016

We herein present a rational‐design strategy for the synthesis of molecules with figure‐eight topology. The design concept is based on the incorporation of turn units in the backbone of the macrocycle. The molecular structures and the folding are studied by X‐ray crystallography and NMR, FT‐IR, and CD spectroscopy.
Effects of diversity versus segregation on automatic approach and avoidance behavior towards own and other ethnic groups
Authors: Degner Juliane , Essien Iniobong , Reichardt Regina
Published: November 2016

We present the results of a study in which we measured automatic intergroup behavior and evaluations in ethnic majority and minority group members. We focus our attention on the level of segregation and diversity of immediate life contexts as indicators of outgroup exposure. Specifically, Dutch ethnic minority and majority students enrolled at ethnically segregated and diverse schools completed a measure of automatic approach and avoidance behavior and reported explicit intergroup attitudes. The research is framed into prevailing theories in the field: Social Identity Theory and System Justification Theory. Results of our study suggest that segregation of minority group members' immediate life context may be an important moderator of evaluations as well as approach and avoidance behavior toward ingroup and outgroup. In particular, minority members in segregated schools showed an approach bias towards their ingroup, whereas minority members in diverse schools showed an approach bias towards the majority outgroup.
A multi‐performance design method for seismic upgrading of existing RC frames by BRBs
Authors: Barbagallo Francesca , Bosco Melina , Marino Edoardo M. , Rossi Pier Paolo , Stramondo Paola R.
Published: November 2016

In the world, many existing buildings with RC framed structure were designed according to old seismic standards and present structural deficiencies. Buckling Restrained Braces (BRBs) can be effective for seismic upgrading of these structures, as pointed out by many studies. Nevertheless, Eurocode 8 (EC8) does not provide any rules for design of BRBs. This lack represents a big obstacle for application of this seismic upgrading technique in Europe. For this reason, a method for the design of seismic upgrading interventions by BRBs is proposed in this paper. The method is obtained as the best between two variants developed, investigated and compared in this paper. Based on a numerical investigation, the parameters that control the design method are calibrated to ensure the fulfillment of the Near Collapse performance objective stipulated in EC8. Finally, the capability of the proposed design method in fulfilling also performance objectives not explicitly considered in design is investigated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dopamine elevates and lowers astroglial Ca2+ through distinct pathways depending on local synaptic circuitry
Authors: Jennings Alistair , Tyurikova Olga , Bard Lucie , Zheng Kaiyu , Semyanov Alexey , Henneberger Christian , Rusakov Dmitri A.
Published: November 2016

Whilst astrocytes in culture invariably respond to dopamine with cytosolic Ca2+ rises, the dopamine sensitivity of astroglia in situ and its physiological roles remain unknown. To minimize effects of experimental manipulations on astroglial physiology, here we monitored Ca2+ in cells connected via gap junctions to astrocytes loaded whole‐cell with cytosolic indicators in area CA1 of acute hippocampal slices. Aiming at high sensitivity of [Ca2+] measurements, we also employed life‐time imaging of the Ca2+ indicator Oregon Green BAPTA‐1. We found that dopamine triggered a dose‐dependent, bidirectional Ca2+ response in stratum radiatum astroglia, a jagged elevation accompanied and followed by below‐baseline decreases. The elevation depended on D1/D2 receptors and engaged intracellular Ca2+ storage and removal whereas the dopamine‐induced [Ca2+] decrease involved D2 receptors only and was sensitive to Ca2+ channel blockade. In contrast, the stratum lacunosum moleculare astroglia generated higher‐threshold dopamine‐induced Ca2+ responses which did not depend on dopamine receptors and were uncoupled from the prominent inhibitory action of dopamine on local perforant path synapses. Our findings thus suggest that a single neurotransmitter—dopamine—could either elevate or decrease astrocyte [Ca2+] depending on the receptors involved, that such actions are specific to the regional neural circuitry and that they may be causally uncoupled from dopamine actions on local synapses. The results also indicate that [Ca2+] elevations commonly detected in astroglia can represent the variety of distinct mechanisms acting on the microscopic scale. GLIA 2017;65:447–459
Human papillomavirus DNA detection in fine‐needle aspirates as indicator of human papillomavirus–positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: A prospective study
Authors: Sivars Lars , Landin David , Haeggblom Linnea , Tertipis Nikolaos , Grün Nathalie , Bersani Cinzia , Marklund Linda , Ghaderi Mehran , Näsman Anders , Ramqvist Torbjörn , Nordfors Cecilia , Munck–Wikland Eva , Tani Edneia , Dalianis Tina
Published: November 2016

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has a better outcome than most head neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) and an HPV‐positive lymph node metastasis likely has an HPV‐positive oropharyngeal SCC origin. Determining HPV‐status in cervical lymph nodes by fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) may be useful for diagnosis.

Methods

FNACs from 66 patients with neck masses were prospectively examined for HPV DNA and HPV16 mRNA by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based assay, and the data correlated to diagnosis and HPV‐status obtained from histopathological specimens.

Results

Aspirates from 17 of 66 patients, later diagnosed with HPV‐positive oropharyngeal SCC, were HPV16 DNA‐positive. HPV16 mRNA was detected in all cases with extractable RNA. All remaining FNACs, including 18 branchial cleft cysts, were HPV DNA‐negative. HPV DNA status in the aspirates showed perfect concordance with corresponding biopsies.

Conclusion

HPV16 DNA detection in fine‐needle aspirations from neck masses is reliable and HPV16 DNA in a metastasis is a strong indicator of an HPV‐positive oropharyngeal SCC. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 419–426, 2017
Cost‐effectiveness of microsurgical reconstruction for head and neck defects after oncologic resection
Authors: Gao Lin Lin , Basta Marten , Kanchwala Suhail K. , Serletti Joseph M. , Low David W. , Wu Liza C.
Published: November 2016

Background

Microvascular free tissue transfer has become the main technique used for head and neck reconstruction. We assessed the cost‐effectiveness of free flap reconstruction for head and neck defects after oncologic resection for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

We developed a Markov model of the cost, quality of life, survival, and incremental cost‐effectiveness of reconstruction with free tissue transfer compared with locoregional flaps. Health state probabilities and quality of life scores were determined from literature. Costs were determined from institutional experience. Outcomes included quality‐adjusted life years, costs, and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio.

Results

Free flap reconstruction was more costly than pedicled flap but associated with greater quality of life with no survival benefit. A value <$50,000 per quality‐adjusted life‐year (QALY) was defined as cost‐effective. The incremental cost‐effectiveness for head and neck free flap reconstruction was below the threshold and, therefore, free flap reconstruction is cost‐effective. Reconstruction was more cost‐effective for patients with lower stage cancers: $4643 per QALY for stage I SCC, $8226 for stage II, $17,269 for stage III, and $23,324 for stage IV. Univariate sensitivity analysis showed the cost‐effectiveness would remain <$50,000 for all stages of SCC for all variables except for QALY after locoregional reconstruction without complications.

Conclusion

Microsurgical head and neck reconstruction is cost‐effective compared with locoregional flaps, even more so in patients with early‐stage cancer. This finding supports the current practice of free flap head and neck reconstruction. Screening and early detection are important to optimize costs. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 541–547, 2017
Reirradiation with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy for locally recurrent T3 to T4 nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chan Oscar S. H. , Sze Henry C. K. , Lee Michael C. H. , Chan Lucy L. K. , Chang Amy T. Y. , Lee Sarah W. M. , Hung Wai Man , Lee Anne W. M. , Ng Wai Tong
Published: November 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and toxicities of reirradiation using intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in patients with locally advanced recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

Thirty‐eight patients with consecutive rT3 to rT4 NPC treated between 2005 and 2013 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The 3‐year overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and local control rate were 47.2%, 17.5%, and 44.3%, respectively. Gross target volume (GTV) D95, GTV D50, and age were all important prognostic factors for OS and PFS, but only GTV D95 was an important determinant for local control. A total of 73.7% patients experienced ≥1 grade 3 late toxicities and 3 patients died of massive epistaxis. Temporal lobe necrosis (TLN) developed sooner with a higher total biological equivalent dose.

Conclusion

Adequate tumor dose coverage was important for treating rT3 to rT4 NPC. Although late complications were common, treatment‐related mortality was solely vascular in nature. Dose constraints of neurologic structures for reirradiation should be revised with the latest information on late toxicities. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 533–540, 2017
Primary Ewing's sarcoma of the sinonasal tract in adults: A challenging disease
Authors: Lombardi Davide , Mattavelli Davide , Redaelli De Zinis Luca O. , Accorona Remo , Morassi Maria L. , Facchetti Fabio , Ferrari Vittorio , Farina Davide , Bertulli Rossella , Nicolai Piero
Published: November 2016

Background

Sinonasal localization of Ewing's sarcoma in adults is an exceedingly rare event.

Methods

The clinical records of 5 patients with primary sinonasal Ewing's sarcoma treated from 1992 to 2012 were retrospectively analyzed. All pathologic slides were reviewed by 2 experienced pathologists. All patients underwent multimodality treatments.

Results

Median age was 36 years (range, 25–52 years). At referral, 2 patients had the original diagnosis changed by review of the histologic slides. Tumors were classified as T4aN0M0 (4 patients) and T2N0M0 (1 patient). Median follow‐up was 110 months (range, 70–139 months). Only 1 patient, who started treatment elsewhere based on an incorrect histologic diagnosis, experienced multiple recurrences and eventually died of widespread metastasis.

Conclusion

Correct pathologic diagnosis can have a crucial impact on treatment planning and outcome. Multimodality therapy is the key for long‐term successful results. Because of the rarity of the tumor, referral to highly experienced care centers is strongly recommended. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: E45–E50, 2017
Molecular features of copper binding proteins involved in copper homeostasis
Authors: Inesi Giuseppe
Published: November 2016

Copper has a wide and important role in biological systems, determining conformation and activity of many metalloproteins and enzymes, such as cytochrome oxidase and superoxide dismutase . Furthermore, due to its possible reactivity with nonspecific proteins and toxic effects, elaborate systems of absorption, concentration buffering, delivery to specific protein sites and elimination, require a complex system including small carriers, chaperones and active transporters. The P‐type copper ATPases ATP7A and ATP7B provide an important system for acquisition, active transport, distribution and elimination of copper. Relevance of copper metabolism to human diseases and therapy is already known. It is quite certain that further studies will reveal detailed and useful information on biochemical mechanisms and relevance to diseases. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 69(4):211–217, 2017
Tissue‐engineering acellular scaffolds—The significant influence of physical and procedural decellularization factors
Authors: Starnecker F. , König F. , Hagl C. , Thierfelder N.
Published: November 2016

The importance of decellularized medical products has significantly increased during the last years. In this paper, we evaluated the effects of selected physical and procedural decellularization (DC) factors with the aim to systematically assess their influence on DC results. 72 porcine aortic walls (AW) were divided into three groups and exposed to a DC solution for 4 h and 8 h, either continuously or in repeated cycles. The AW were rocked (90bpm), whirled (10 l/min), sonicated (120W, 45 kHz) or exposed to a combination of these treatments, followed by 10 washing cycles. Defining successful DC as removal of nuclei while keeping an intact extracellular matrix (ECM), we equalized the efficiency to the penetration depth (PD), obtained by DAPI fluorescence and H&E staining. Additionally, we performed scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Pentachrome and Picrosirius‐Red staining. Results showed that significantly higher DC depths are achieved on outer compared to inner surfaces (61 ± 7%; p < 0.001). Furthermore, the PD showed a high time dependency for all samples. Compared to continuous rocking, we achieved a significant increase in the DC efficiency through cyclic treatments (
43%), whirling (
19%) and sonication (
49%). The combined treatment supported these results. In all procedures, a skeletonized but intact Collagen fibrous network was obtained as confirmed by SEM analysis. In conclusion, we systematically identified essential factors to significantly enhance DC procedures. We highly recommend considering these factors in future DC protocols. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 153–162, 2018.
Sarcopenia predicts readmission and mortality in elderly patients in acute care wards: a prospective study
Authors: Yang Ming , Hu Xiaoyi , Wang Haozhong , Zhang Lei , Hao Qiukui , Dong Birong
Published: November 2016

Background

The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of sarcopenia and investigate the associations between sarcopenia and long‐term mortality and readmission in a population of elderly inpatients in acute care wards.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study in the acute care wards of a teaching hospital in western China. The muscle mass was estimated according to a previously validated anthropometric equation. Handgrip strength was measured with a handheld dynamometer, and physical performance was measured via a 4 m walking test. Sarcopenia was defined according to the recommended diagnostic algorithm of the Asia Working Group for Sarcopenia. The survival status and readmission information were obtained via telephone interviews at 12, 24, and 36 months during the 3 year follow‐up period following the baseline investigation.

Results

Two hundred and eighty‐eight participants (mean age: 81.1 ± 6.6 years) were included. Forty‐nine participants (17.0%) were identified as having sarcopenia. This condition was similar in men and women (16.9% vs. 17.5%, respectively, P = 0.915). During the 3 year follow‐up period, 49 men (22.7%) and 9 women (16.4%) died (P = 0.307). The mortality of sarcopenic participants was significantly increased compared with non‐sarcopenic participants (40.8% vs. 17.1%, respectively, P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex and other confounders, sarcopenia was an independent predictor of 3 year mortality (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.49; 95% confidential interval: 1.25–4.95) and readmission (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.81; 95% confidential interval: 1.17–2.80).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia, which is evaluated by a combination of anthropometric measures, gait speed, and handgrip strength, is valuable to predict hospital readmission and long‐term mortality in elderly patients in acute care wards.
Muscle strength in breast cancer patients receiving different treatment regimes
Authors: Klassen Oliver , Schmidt Martina E. , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Schneeweiss Andreas , Potthoff Karin , Steindorf Karen , Wiskemann Joachim
Published: November 2016

Background

Muscle dysfunction and sarcopenia have been associated with poor performance status, an increased mortality risk, and greater side effects in oncologic patients. However, little is known about how performance is affected by cancer therapy. We investigated muscle strength in breast cancer patients in different adjuvant treatment settings and also compared it with data from healthy individuals.

Methods

Breast cancer patients (N = 255) from two randomized controlled exercise trials, staged 0–III and aged 54.4 ± 9.4 years, were categorized into four groups according to their treatment status. In a cross‐sectional design, muscle function was assessed bilaterally by isokinetic dynamometry (0°, 60°, 180°/s) as maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and maximal isokinetic peak torque (MIPT) in shoulder rotators and knee flexors and extensors. Additionally, muscular fatigue index (FI%) and shoulder flexibility were evaluated. Healthy women (N = 26), aged 53.3 ± 9.8 years, were tested using the same method. Analysis of covariance was used to estimate the impact of different cancer treatments on skeletal muscle function with adjustment for various clinical and socio‐demographic factors.

Results

Consistently, lower muscle strength was measured in shoulder and knee strength in patients after chemotherapy. On average, patients had up to 25% lower strength in lower extremities and 12–16% in upper extremities in MVIC and MIPT during cancer treatment compared with healthy women. No substantial difference between patient groups in shoulder strength, but significantly lower shoulder flexibility in patients with radical mastectomy was measured. Chemotherapy‐treated patients had consistently higher FI%. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

Breast cancer patients showed markedly impaired muscle strength and joint dysfunctions before and after anticancer treatment. The significant differences between patients and healthy individuals underline the need of exercise therapy as early as possible in order to prevent or counteract the loss of muscle function after curative surgery as well as the consequences of neo‐/adjuvant chemotherapy.
Exercise restores muscle stem cell mobilization, regenerative capacity and muscle metabolic alterations via adiponectin/AdipoR1 activation in SAMP10 mice
Authors: Inoue Aiko , Cheng Xian Wu , Huang Zhe , Hu Lina , Kikuchi Ryosuke , Jiang Haiying , Piao Limei , Sasaki Takeshi , Itakura Kohji , Wu Hongxian , Zhao Guangxian , Lei Yanna , Yang Guang , Zhu Enbo , Li Xiang , Sato Kohji , Koike Teruhiko , Kuzuya Masafumi
Published: November 2016

Background

Exercise train (ET) stimulates muscle response in pathological conditions, including aging. The molecular mechanisms by which exercise improves impaired adiponectin/adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1)‐related muscle actions associated with aging are poorly understood. Here we observed that in a senescence‐accelerated mouse prone 10 (SAMP10) model, long‐term ET modulated muscle‐regenerative actions.

Methods

25‐week‐old male SAMP10 mice were randomly assigned to the control and the ET (45 min/time, 3/week) groups for 4 months. Mice that were maintained in a sedentary condition served controls.

Results

ET ameliorated aging‐related muscle changes in microstructure, mitochondria, and performance. The amounts of proteins or mRNAs for p‐AMPKα, p‐Akt, p‐ERK1/2, p‐mTOR, Bcl‐XL, p‐FoxO3, peroxisome proliferators‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator, adiponectin receptor1 (adpoR1), and cytochrome c oxidase‐IV, and the numbers of CD34+/integrin‐α7+ muscle stem cells (MuSCs) and proliferating cells in the muscles and bone‐marrow were enhanced by ET, whereas the levels of p‐GSK‐3α and gp91phox proteins and apoptotic cells were reduced by ET. The ET also resulted in increased levels of plasma adiponectin and the numbers of bone‐marrow (BM)‐derived circulating CD34+/integrin‐α7+ MuSCs and their functions. Integrin‐α7+ MuSCs of exercised mice had improved changes of those beneficial molecules. These ET‐mediated aged muscle benefits were diminished by adiponectin and AdipoR1 blocking as well as AMPK inhibition. Finally, recombinant mouse adiponectin enhanced AMPK and mTOR phosphorylations in BM‐derived integrin‐α7+ cells.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that ET can improve aging‐related impairments of BM‐derived MuSC regenerative capacity and muscle metabolic alterations via an AMPK‐dependent mechanism that is mediated by an adiponectin/AdipoR1 axis in SAMP10 mice.
Under what conditions does job control moderate the relationship between time pressure and employee well‐being? Investigating the role of match and personal control beliefs
Authors: Stiglbauer Barbara
Published: November 2016

Drawing upon the concept of match, this two‐wave study of 206 employees investigated job control (facets of autonomy) and personal control beliefs (locus of control, LOC) as moderators of time pressure–work engagement (WE) and the time pressure–general subjective well‐being (SWB) relationships. It was hypothesized that autonomy would accentuate the positive relationship of time pressure with WE and attenuate the negative relationship with SWB and that these moderations would occur only for employees with an internal LOC. Additionally, it was expected that a facet of job control (timing autonomy) that matched the specific demand (time pressure) would be more likely to act as a moderator than “less‐matching” facets (decision making or method autonomy). The results revealed that the interaction between time pressure, autonomy, and LOC for WE was strongest and for SWB only significant when the timing facet of autonomy served as the moderator (thus, when the autonomy facet matched the demand). However, the pattern of moderation was contrary to that expected. When time pressure increased, high autonomy became beneficial for the WE of employees with an external LOC but detrimental for the WE and SWB of employees with an internal LOC. Explanations for the unexpected findings are provided. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Altered pharyngeal structure and dynamics among patients with cervical kyphosis
Authors: Randall Derrick R. , Strong E. Brandon , Belafsky Peter C.
Published: November 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Deformities of the anterior cervical spine are an established cause of dysphagia. Whereas osteophytes and spinal fusion hardware have been reported to alter bolus flow and contribute to swallowing dysfunction, the relationship between abnormal spine curvature and swallowing dysfunction is not established. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the association between cervical kyphosis and objective measures of swallowing dysfunction on videofluoroscopy.

Study Design

Case‐control study of patients presenting to tertiary dysphagia center.

Methods

All videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) performed at our institution, between August 1, 2014, and August 1, 2015, were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients with abnormal cervical kyphosis, according to Cobb and Jackson angle measurements. Patients with kyphosis were age‐ and gender‐matched to persons without kyphosis. VFSS and demographic parameters were collected and compared between groups.

Results

Thirty‐six patients with cervical kyphosis exceeding two standard deviations (SD) beyond established age‐specific normal ranges were identified. The mean age of the entire cohort was 61.6 (SD ±19.1) years. Mean pharyngeal area was 3.34 cm2 greater in kyphosis patients compared to controls (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.47‐5.21 cm2; P = .0007). This was associated with increased hypopharyngeal transit time (0.57 seconds, 95% CI: 0.045‐1.09 seconds, P = .034), and higher prevalence of penetration (P = .014). There was no significant difference in the pharyngeal constriction ratio (PCR), a surrogate measure of pharyngeal strength (P = .83).

Conclusions

Patients with cervical spine kyphosis have a significantly dilated pharynx (P = .0007), elongated hypopharyngeal transit time (P = .034), and worsened penetration aspiration scores (P = .021). Absence of a difference in PCR suggests adequate compensation as a group.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 127:1832–1837, 2017
Simultaneous analysis of Ba and Sr to Ca ratios in scleractinian corals by inductively coupled plasma optical emissions spectrometry
Authors: I. Cantarero Sebastian , T. I. Tanzil Jani , Goodkin Nathalie F.
Published: November 2016

Chemical analyses of coral skeletons are useful for reconstructing past ocean conditions. Simultaneous measurements of Ba and Sr to Ca ratios in coral samples have predominantly been achieved by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). We demonstrate a method that expands the application of the inductively coupled plasma optical emissions spectrometry (ICP‐OES) technique to precisely analyze Ba, Sr, and Ca simultaneously. Analytical drift and matrix interferences at a range of Ba/Ca ratios (3–10 μmols/mol) were explored to determine the efficacy of standardized corrections. Minor disparity in drift and matrix interferences between standards of varying Ba/Ca ratios indicate that standardized corrections can be applied. Comparative analysis between ICP‐OES and an established ICP‐MS technique in a Singapore coral and international coral standard JCp‐1 were utilized to validate the proposed ICP‐OES technique. ICP‐MS and ICP‐OES techniques showed a consistent offset, which was correctible with the use of an internal lab standard and resulted in only minor differences between techniques. ICP‐OES showed comparable accuracy and precision to the ICP‐MS, as evaluated by analysis of JCp‐1 which averaged values within one standard deviation of established concentrations (accurate to within 0.38 μmol Ba/mol Ca and 0.014 mmol Sr/mol Ca). We have demonstrated a sufficiently precise and accurate method for simultaneous analysis of Ba and Sr to Ca ratios in coral samples on an ICP‐OES system. Expanding the application of ICP‐OES in coral geochemical analysis provides a lower cost alternative to ICP‐MS, while maintaining a high sample throughput.
Microsurgical reconstruction in patients greater than 80 years old
Authors: Heidekrueger Paul I. , Heine‐Geldern Albrecht , Ninkovic Milomir , Herter Frank , Schmauss Daniel , Aung Thiha , Broer P. Niclas
Published: November 2016

Background

Demographic change implies that the human population is getting older and the elderly are living longer. Consequently, achieving good functional and aesthetic outcomes in microvascular procedures, especially in very old patients with higher incidence of atherosclerosis and vessel calcifications, constitutes a microsurgical challenge. This study evaluates the feasibility of microsurgical procedures in a very old patient cohort.

Patients and Methods

Between 2009 and 2015, 754 patients underwent 838 free flap reconstructions. The patients were divided into two groups according to age in “middle‐aged” (<80 years old; n = 711) or “very old” (≥80 years old; n = 43). The series was retrospectively analyzed regarding potential influence of medical comorbidities, surgical and medical complications and outcomes.

Results

Between the groups, there was a significant difference regarding comorbidities with a higher prevalence of hypertension (P < 0.0001) and peripheral artery disease (P < 0.0001) in the very old group. However, there was no significant difference regarding the rate of surgical or medical complications, flap failure (middle aged group 43/791 flaps (5.44%) versus very old group 4/47 flaps (8.51%); P = 0.328), and revision rate (117/791 flaps (14.79%) versus 6/47 flaps (12.77%); P = 0.834) between the patient groups during our 3‐months follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that despite higher rates of patient comorbidities, successful free tissue transfer can also be achieved in a very old population with acceptable risk for complications.
Diffusion‐weighted imaging of the abdomen: Impact of b‐values on texture analysis features
Authors: Becker Anton S. , Wagner Matthias W. , Wurnig Moritz C. , Boss Andreas
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this work was to systematically assess the impact of the b‐value on texture analysis in MR diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) of the abdomen.

In eight healthy male volunteers, echo‐planar DWI sequences at 16 b‐values ranging between 0 and 1000 s/mm2 were acquired at 3 T. Three different apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps were computed (0, 750/100, 390, 750 s/mm2/all b‐values). Texture analysis of rectangular regions of interest in the liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas, paraspinal muscle and subcutaneous fat was performed on DW images and the ADC maps, applying 19 features computed from the histogram, grey‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM) and grey‐level run‐length matrix (GLRLM). Correlations between b‐values and texture features were tested with a linear and an exponential model; the best fit was determined by the smallest sum of squared residuals. Differences between the ADC maps were assessed with an analysis of variance. A Bonferroni‐corrected p‐value less than 0.008 (=0.05/6) was considered statistically significant.

Most GLCM and GLRLM‐derived texture features (12–18 per organ) showed significant correlations with the b‐value. Four texture features correlated significantly with changing b‐values in all organs (p < 0.008). Correlation coefficients varied between 0.7 and 1.0. The best fit varied across different structures, with fat exhibiting mostly exponential (17 features), muscle mostly linear (12 features) and the parenchymatous organs mixed feature alterations. Two GLCM features showed significant variability in the different ADC maps.

Several texture features vary systematically in healthy tissues at different b‐values, which needs to be taken into account if DWI data with different b‐values are analyzed. Histogram and GLRLM‐derived texture features are stable on ADC maps computed from different b‐values.
An implicit finite wear contact formulation based on dual mortar methods
Authors: Farah Philipp , Wall Wolfgang A. , Popp Alexander
Published: November 2016

Finite deformation contact problems with frictional effects and finite shape changes due to wear are investigated. To capture the finite shape changes, a third configuration besides the well‐known reference and spatial configurations is introduced, which represents the time‐dependent worn state. Consistent interconnections between these states are realized by an arbitrary Lagrangean–Eulerian formulation. The newly developed partitioned and fully implicit algorithm is based on a Lagrangean step and a shape evolution step. Within the Lagrangean step, contact constraints as well as the wear equations are weakly enforced following the well‐established mortar framework. Additional unknowns due to the employed Lagrange multiplier method for contact constraint enforcement and due to wear itself are eliminated by condensation procedures based on the concept of biorthogonality and the so‐called dual shape functions. Several numerical examples in both 2D and 3D are provided to demonstrate the performance and accuracy of the proposed numerical algorithm. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute partial sleep deprivation due to environmental noise increases weight gain by reducing energy expenditure in rodents
Authors: Parrish Jennifer B. , Teske Jennifer A.
Published: November 2016

Objective

Chronic partial sleep deprivation (SD) by environmental noise exposure increases weight gain and feeding in rodents, which contrasts weight loss after acute SD by physical methods. This study tested whether acute environmental noise exposure reduced sleep and its effect on weight gain, food intake, physical activity, and energy expenditure (EE). It was hypothesized that acute exposure would (1) increase weight gain and feeding and (2) reduce sleep, physical activity, and EE (total and individual components); and (3) behavioral changes would persist throughout recovery from SD.

Methods

Three‐month old male Sprague‐Dawley rats slept ad libitum, were noise exposed (12‐h light cycle), and allowed to recover (36 h). Weight gain, food intake, sleep/wake, physical activity, and EE were measured.

Results

Acute environmental noise exposure had no effect on feeding, increased weight gain (P < 0.01), and reduced sleep (P < 0.02), physical activity (P < 0.03), total EE (P < 0.05), and several components (P < 0.05). Reductions in EE and physical activity persisted during recovery.

Conclusions

Reductions in EE during sleep, rest, and physical activity reduce total EE and contribute to weight gain during acute SD and recovery from SD. These data emphasize the importance of increasing physical activity after SD to prevent obesity.
Quantifying bias in survival estimates resulting from loss to follow‐up among children with lymphoma in Malawi
Authors: Stanley Christopher C. , Westmoreland Kate D. , Itimu Salama , Salima Ande , van der Gronde Toon , Wasswa Peter , Mtete Idah , Butia Mercy , El‐Mallawany Nader K. , Gopal Satish
Published: November 2016

Pediatric lymphoma is common in sub‐Saharan Africa, where survival estimates are often based on limited follow‐up with incomplete retention, introducing potential for bias. We compared follow‐up and overall survival (OS) between passive and active tracing within a prospective cohort of children with lymphoma in Malawi. Median follow‐up times were 4.4 months (interquartile range [IQR] 2.0–9.4) and 10.8 months (IQR 6.2–20.6) in passive and active follow‐up, respectively. Twelve‐month overall survival (OS) was 69% (95% confidence interval [CI] 54–80) in passive and 44% (95% CI 34–54) in active follow‐up. Passive follow‐up significantly overestimated the OS and underestimated the mortality. Efforts to improve retention in regional studies are needed.
Incidence of depression and anxiety among women newly diagnosed with breast or genital organ cancer in Germany
Authors: Jacob Louis , Kalder Matthias , Kostev Karel
Published: November 2016

Background

To analyze the incidence of depression and anxiety among women newly diagnosed with breast or genital organ cancer (BC or GOC) in Germany.

Methods

A total of 29 366 women initially diagnosed with BC or GOC between 2005 and 2014 were available for analysis. The main outcome measure was the incidence of depression and anxiety among women newly diagnosed with BC or GOC within 5 years after the first cancer diagnosis in German gynecologist practices. Demographic and clinical data included age, type of cancer, and presence of metastases at diagnosis. The incidence rate of depression and anxiety per 100 person‐years was calculated. We performed a multivariate regression model to analyze the association between depression and the variables of interest.

Results

In total, 7994 women were diagnosed with depression/anxiety (81.3% had BC and 18.7% had GOC). The incidence of depression and anxiety was 8.8 per 100 person‐years in women with BC. In individuals with GOC, the incidence of depression/anxiety was 5.9 per 100 person‐years. Breast cancer was associated with a 1.41‐fold increase in the risk of developing depression or anxiety as compared with GOC. Patients with metastases also had a higher risk of being depressed and anxious than others (odds ratio = 1.40). Finally, women in the age groups of 41 to 50, 51 to 60, and 61 to 70 years were at a higher risk of depression/anxiety than women in the age group of 71 to 80 years (odds ratios equal to 1.50, 1.38, and 1.22).

Conclusions

Women diagnosed with BC were at a higher risk of developing depression or anxiety than women with GOC.
Asymmetric contact in tin bismuth oxide thin film transistors
Authors: Yang Jianwen , Han Yanbing , Fu Ruofan , Ren Jinhua , Zhang Qun
Published: November 2016

The influence of electrical contact of source/drain electrodes for amorphous bismuth doped tin oxide (a‐TBO) thin film transistors (TFTs) is investigated. The source/drain contact has an obvious influence on the TFT performance, which is confirmed by the TFTs with different process sequences. When the electrodes are deposited after the annealing process, the gate voltage is unable to control the drain current, and the channel layer exhibits normally‐on characteristics. However, when the deposition process is prior to the annealing process, the TFT presents a very good switching characteristic. Based on the effect of annealing on the properties of the ITO electrode, it is concluded that the asymmetric contact between the source electrode and the channel layer plays an important role in the performance of the a‐TBO TFTs.
Output feedback relay control in the second‐order sliding mode context with application to an electropneumatic system
Authors: Yan Xinming , Primot Muriel , Plestan Franck
Published: November 2016

In this paper, a new second‐order sliding mode output feedback control law is proposed. It amounts to approach the dynamic performance of the twisting algorithm, but the main advantage of this new control method is that it requires only the information of the sliding variable, and not its derivative. A gain adaptation law is also developed for this new control law. Then this control strategy is applied to the position control of an electropneumatic system, and its performance is compared with other two very recent adaptive second‐order sliding mode control laws. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.