bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The capacity of active heat method in evaluation of seepage
Authors: Bui Q. Cuong , Zhou Yihong , Zhao Chunju
Published: August 2017

The analysis of temperature variation inside an embankment dam is known as a feasible approach for seepage estimation in an embankment dam. The time needed for temperature surveillance could be considerably reduced when it is implemented under the condition of heat injection. However, a detailed description about the method as well as its capability has not been sufficiently presented in previous research. To fill this void, a realistic scale finite‐element modeling was conducted to explain and assess the abilities of the approach. A 15 m dam segment containing a suffusion layer was simulated with 11 scenarios, where it was found that the applications of temperature measurement with the complement of high‐power line heat sources in standpipes could give a solution for seepage determination in a dam segment with length up to 6 m, and the combination of fiber optic sensors and electrical wires provides an ability to assess seepage in a long dam distance. It is noteworthy that the efficiency in the perpendicular plane to the fiber optic sensor and electrical wire is limited.
Thermal Enhancement from Pin Fins by Using Elliptical Perforations with Different Inclination Angles
Authors: Jasim Hisham H. , Söylemez Mehmet S.
Published: August 2017

Many of the proposed methods introduce the perforated fin with the straight direction to improve the thermal performance of the heat sink. The innovative form of the perforated fin (with inclination angles) was considered. Present rectangular pin fins consist of elliptical perforations with two models and two cases. The signum function is used for modeling the opposite and the mutable approach of the heat transfer area. To find the general solution, the degenerate hypergeometric equation was used as a new derivative method and then solved by Kummer's series. Two validation methods (previous work and Ansys 16.0‐Steady State Thermal) are considered. The strong agreement of the validation results (0.31% to 0.52%) lends to the reliability of the presented model. It was found that use of the perforated fin leads to decreased thermal resistance and improvement in the thermal performance of the pin fin by enhancing the heat transfer and increasing Nusselt number. Also, the increase of the inclination angle, size, and number of perforations can be used to optimize the present model by maximizing the heat transfer area and minimizing both the weight and length of the pin fins.
Menstrual pain and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer: Results from the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium
Authors: Babic Ana , Harris Holly R. , Vitonis Allison F. , Titus Linda J. , Jordan Susan J. , Webb Penelope M. ,   Australian Ovarian Cancer Study Group, Risch Harvey A. , Rossing Mary Anne , Doherty Jennifer A. , Wicklund Kristine , Goodman Marc T. , Modugno Francesmary , Moysich Kirsten B. , Ness Roberta B. , Kjaer Susanne K. , Schildkraut Joellen , Berchuck Andrew , Pearce Celeste L. , Wu Anna H. , Cramer Daniel W. , Terry Kathryn L.
Published: August 2017

Menstrual pain, a common gynecological condition, has been associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer in some, but not all studies. Furthermore, potential variations in the association between menstrual pain and ovarian cancer by histologic subtype have not been adequately evaluated due to lack of power. We assessed menstrual pain using either direct questions about having experienced menstrual pain, or indirect questions about menstrual pain as indication for use of hormones or medications. We used multivariate logistic regression to calculate the odds ratio (OR) for the association between severe menstrual pain and ovarian cancer, adjusting for potential confounders and multinomial logistic regression to calculate ORs for specific histologic subtypes. We observed no association between ovarian cancer and menstrual pain assessed by indirect questions. Among studies using direct question, severe pain was associated with a small but significant increase in overall risk of ovarian cancer (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.13), after adjusting for endometriosis and other potential confounders. The association appeared to be more relevant for clear cell (OR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.10–1.99) and serous borderline (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.05–1.63) subtypes. In this large international pooled analysis of case‐control studies, we observed a small increase in risk of ovarian cancer for women reporting severe menstrual pain. While we observed an increased ovarian cancer risk with severe menstrual pain, the possibility of recall bias and undiagnosed endometriosis cannot be excluded. Future validation in prospective studies with detailed information on endometriosis is needed.
Cancer‐associated fecal microbial markers in colorectal cancer detection
Authors: Eklöf Vincy , Löfgren‐Burström Anna , Zingmark Carl , Edin Sofia , Larsson Pär , Karling Pontus , Alexeyev Oleg , Rutegård Jörgen , Wikberg Maria L. , Palmqvist Richard
Published: August 2017

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer death in the western world. An effective screening program leading to early detection of disease would severely reduce the mortality of CRC. Alterations in the gut microbiota have been linked to CRC, but the potential of microbial markers for use in CRC screening has been largely unstudied. We used a nested case–control study of 238 study subjects to explore the use of microbial markers for clbA+ bacteria harboring the pks pathogenicity island, afa‐C+ diffusely adherent Escherichia coli harboring the afa‐1 operon, and Fusobacterium nucleatum in stool as potential screening markers for CRC. We found that individual markers for clbA+ bacteria and F. nucleatum were more abundant in stool of patients with CRC, and could predict cancer with a relatively high specificity (81.5% and 76.9%, respectively) and with a sensitivity of 56.4% and 69.2%, respectively. In a combined test of clbA+ bacteria and F. nucleatum, CRC was detected with a specificity of 63.1% and a sensitivity of 84.6%. Our findings support a potential value of microbial factors in stool as putative noninvasive biomarkers for CRC detection. We propose that microbial markers may represent an important future screening strategy for CRC, selecting patients with a “high‐risk” microbial pattern to other further diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy.
Polyhydrides of Sc, Zr and Hf and Their Proposed Formation.
Authors: Kurogi Takashi , Kamitani Masahiro , Carroll Patrick J. , Mindiola Daniel J.
Published: August 2017

Hydrogenation at 500 psi of (PNP)Sc(CH3)2 results in formation of a trinuclear polyhydride complex [(PNP)Sc]3(μ2‐H)4(μ3‐H)2 (1) in 55 % yield. The solid‐state structure shows a non‐symmetric trinuclear species resulting from one pincer phosphine arm being demetallated, and where two hydrides bridge all three Sc centers, whereas the other four bridge two. Hydrogenation of (PNP)Zr(CH3)3 at 200 psi results instead in formation of a dinclear polyhydride species [(PNP)Zr(H)]2(μ2‐H)4 (2). Conducting the hydrogenation at atmospheric pressure, resulted instead in formation of the bridging methylidene complex [(PNP)Zr(CH3)]2(μ2‐H)2(μ2‐CH2) (3), which cleanly converted to 2, upon hydrogenation at higher pressure. Both 2 and 3 were also structurally characterized. Hydrogenation of (PNP)Hf(CH3)3 at 200 psi resulted in incomplete hydrogenation with some formation of dinuclear mono‐ and dimethyl‐polyhydride complexes [(PNP)Hf(CH3)]2(μ2‐H)4 (4) and [(PNP)Hf(CH3)][(PNP)Hf(H)](μ2‐H)4 (5), which were identified by solid‐state X‐ray structural studies. Based on these results, we propose a pathway for the complete hydrogenation of (PNP)Zr(CH3)3 to 2.
The regeneration of macro‐porous electrospun poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) vascular graft during long‐termin situimplantation
Authors: Wu Yifan , Qin Yibo , Wang Zhihong , Wang Jianing , Zhang Chuangnian , Li Chen , Kong Deling
Published: August 2017

Long‐term evaluation of vascular grafts is an essential step to facilitate clinical translation. In this study, we investigate the long‐term performance of a macro‐porous poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) (PCL) electrospun vascular graft using the rat abdominal artery replacement model. Long‐term patency, endothelialization, and smooth muscle cell regeneration were evaluated, as well as calcification and degradation. The data showed that all the grafts remained open and unobstructed. There was no evidence of aneurysm, stenosis, or calcification one year after implantation. Importantly, neo‐vessel was regenerated on the luminal surface of the graft, and was composed of a complete endothelial layer and several layers of smooth muscle cells. The neo‐vessel showed vascular physiological function, although not as good as that in native blood vessels, likely due to the remaining scaffold fibers. These data indicated that the PCL macro‐porous electrospun vascular graft has potential to be an artery substitute for long‐term implantation. Also, this work indicates that continued efforts are needed to develop advanced vascular grafts that exhibit the appropriate balance between the regeneration of the neo‐vessel and the complete degradation of the graft materials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1618–1627, 2018.
Evaluating electronic structure methods for accurate calculation of 19F chemical shifts in fluorinated amino acids
Authors: Dahanayake Jayangika N. , Kasireddy Chandana , Ellis Jonathan M. , Hildebrandt Derek , Hull Olivia A. , Karnes Joseph P. , Morlan Dylan , Mitchell‐Koch Katie R.
Published: August 2017

The ability of electronic structure methods (11 density functionals, HF, and MP2 calculations; two basis sets and two solvation models) to accurately calculate the 19F chemical shifts of 31 structures of fluorinated amino acids and analogues with known experimental 19F NMR spectra has been evaluated. For this task, BHandHLYP, ωB97X, and Hartree–Fock with scaling factors (provided within) are most accurate. Additionally, the accuracy of methods to calculate relative changes in fluorine shielding across 23 sets of structural variants, such as zwitterionic amino acids versus side chains only, was also determined. This latter criterion may be a better indicator of reliable methods for the ultimate goal of assigning and interpreting chemical shifts of fluorinated amino acids in proteins. It was found that MP2 and M062X calculations most accurately assess changes in shielding among analogues. These results serve as a guide for computational developments to calculate 19F chemical shifts in biomolecular environments. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inteins as tools for tagless and traceless protein purification
Authors: Lahiry Ashwin , Fan Yamin , Stimple Samuel D , Raith Mitch , Wood David W
Published: August 2017

The purification of recombinant proteins is a complicated process that requires a thorough understanding of the physical and chemical properties of each protein of interest. The unique characteristics of each protein require the development of a complicated, multi‐step process consisting of several orthogonal chromatographic techniques. Although affinity tag methods have been useful in simplifying this process, these approaches have significant drawbacks when tagless proteins are required. Therefore, the development of a flexible, economical, and efficient purification platform for traceless and tagless target proteins would represent a significant advance in bioprocess development. Self‐cleaving tags have enabled purification of a broad range of target proteins using simple affinity approaches, but with the ability to ultimately deliver a tagless target protein. Thus these tags potentially offer a purification platform analogous to Protein A, but without the limitation to antibody targets. This review summarizes the advances in developing various intein‐based self‐cleaving tag technologies, their preferred cleavage conditions (reducing agents, pH, temp, etc.) and the effect of different target proteins on intein catalytic activity. We also discuss engineered inteins whose activity (protein splicing or cleavage) is stringently controlled/triggered by small molecules, light, or environmental condition such as salt concentration. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Enantioseparation with liquid membranes
Authors: Gössi Angelo , Riedl Wolfgang , Schuur Boelo
Published: August 2017

Chiral resolution of racemic products is a challenging and important task in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, flavor, polymer and fragrances industries. One of the options for these challenging separations is to use liquid membranes. Although liquid membranes have been known for almost four decades and have been used for optical resolutions, no comprehensive review has been published about the use of this technology for enantioseparations. In this review, the various liquid membrane‐related technologies are described and compared, including bulk liquid membranes, emulsion liquid membranes, micelle‐extraction and micellar enhanced ultrafiltration, as well as supported liquid membranes. Next to technological advances, an overview of recent developments in chiral recognition chemistry in liquid–liquid equilibria is presented. The following extractant classes have recently been reported in conjunction with chiral separation: cyclodextrines, BINOL's, calixarenes, crown ethers, BINAP's, tartaric acids and ionic liquids. The use of two supported (non‐liquid) membranes with an inner loop of extract phase appears to be the most stable liquid membrane configuration, allowing for a large degree of freedom in operational conditions such as solvent to feed ratio. The library of solvents still needs broadening to make the technology more versatile and based on the variety of successes with catalytically active organometallic complexes, development of new chiral selector systems based on asymmetric catalysis literature is suggested for future selector screening studies. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis of graphene oxide/metal–organic frameworks hybrid materials for enhanced removal of Methylene blue in acidic and alkaline solutions
Authors: Zhao Shuaiqi , Chen Ding , Wei Fuhua , Chen Nini , Liang Zhao , Luo Yun
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Dye wastewater is causing a serious problem to the environment and to human health. A considerable amount of colored wastewater is generated from many industries. Moreover, many dyes in the wastewater are believed to be toxic and even carcinogenic. Therefore, the removal of dyes from wastewater is necessary and urgent.

RESULTS

The adsorption kinetics, isotherms and intra‐particle diffusion model were determined from experimental data, and the results indicated that the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and the Langmuir adsorption isotherm matched well the adsorption of MB onto GO/MOFs. Thermodynamic parameters revealed that the adsorption of MB by GO/MOFs was spontaneous and exothermic. The adsorption capacity was greatly improved in acidic or alkaline aqueous solution. The maximum adsorption capacity of GO/MOFs reached 274 mg g‐1, higher than most previously reported adsorbents. Also, the adsorbent could be used at least five times after washing with ethanol.

CONCLUSION

A microwave‐assisted ball milling method was used successfully to synthesize Ni‐MOFs and GO/MOFs. Because of electrostatic interaction and acid–base interaction, both acidic and alkaline aqueous solutions were found to favor the adsorption of MB by GO/MOFs, this being different from previous reports. GO/MOFs also showed acceptable reusability after being regenerated by ethanol. All the results suggest that MOFs prepared by microwave‐assisted ball milling give the prospect of removal of MB from aqueous solution. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Morphostructural and immunohistochemical study on the role of metallothionein in the detoxification of heavy metals in Apis mellifera L., 1758
Authors: Salvaggio Antonio , Pecoraro Roberta , Scalisi Elena Maria , Tibullo Daniele , Lombardo Bianca Maria , Messina Giuseppina , Loreto Francesco , Copat Chiara , Ferrante Margherita , Avola Roberto , D'amante Giusi , Genovese Claudia , Raccuia Salvatore Antonino , Brundo Maria Violetta
Published: August 2017

Honey is a valuable food produced by bees from sugary substances that they gather in nature. The transformation the nectar into honey, by bees, is long and complex. Except for honey, where heavy metals are absent or are found only in traces, the bees and their products have always been considered excellent biomarkers of such contaminants. We have assumed that the absence of heavy metals in honey is due to the presence of a detoxification system in the digestive system of bees, which involves metallothioneins, proteins that have a role in the homeostatic control of essential and non‐essential metals. We have placed the beehives in three different zones: industrial, urban and rural. Investigations were carried out with ICP‐MS method for the detection of heavy metals in the guts of honey bees and honey. The metallothioneins have been identified by Immunohistochemical and Western‐blotting analisys. The investigations have shown the presence of heavy metals only in bees guts but not in honey, while the presence of metallothionein has been highlighted only in epithelium of the honey sac, demonstrating the existence of an efficient system of detoxification of heavy metals.
Utility of N′‐((2‐chloroquinolin‐3‐yl)methylene)‐2‐cyanoacetohydrazide as a Source of Biologically Active Novel Heterocycles
Authors: Elsayed Galal A. , Omara Samir A. , Kamel Rabaa M.
Published: August 2017

The title compound is used as a precursor in synthesis of differently sized heterocyclic systems bearing quinoline moeity. Investigation of antimicrobial activity of the new products was evaluated using agar well diffusion method against six reference microbial isolates. Most of the new compounds are potent as antimicrobial agents.
How Poverty Shapes Caring for a Disabled Child: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: van der Mark Elise J. , Conradie Ina , Dedding Christine W.M. , Broerse Jacqueline E.W.
Published: August 2017

Despite ample research on the relationship between disability and poverty, the experiences of parents of disabled children are herein generally overlooked. We argue that an understanding of how poverty shapes caring for a disabled child is crucial for disability inclusive development. Therefore, this paper narratively reviews literature on carers of disabled children from various contexts published between 1995 and 2015. It uncovers a significant knowledge gap on the impact of poverty despite slowly emerging evidence on how political, cultural and socioeconomic exclusion stifles parents to enhance their families' wellbeing and possibly reap the benefits of development policies. Implications for future research are addressed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy‐efficient neural information processing in individual neurons and neuronal networks
Authors: Yu Lianchun , Yu Yuguo
Published: August 2017

Brains are composed of networks of an enormous number of neurons interconnected with synapses. Neural information is carried by the electrical signals within neurons and the chemical signals among neurons. Generating these electrical and chemical signals is metabolically expensive. The fundamental issue raised here is whether brains have evolved efficient ways of developing an energy‐efficient neural code from the molecular level to the circuit level. Here, we summarize the factors and biophysical mechanisms that could contribute to the energy‐efficient neural code for processing input signals. The factors range from ion channel kinetics, body temperature, axonal propagation of action potentials, low‐probability release of synaptic neurotransmitters, optimal input and noise, the size of neurons and neuronal clusters, excitation/inhibition balance, coding strategy, cortical wiring, and the organization of functional connectivity. Both experimental and computational evidence suggests that neural systems may use these factors to maximize the efficiency of energy consumption in processing neural signals. Studies indicate that efficient energy utilization may be universal in neuronal systems as an evolutionary consequence of the pressure of limited energy. As a result, neuronal connections may be wired in a highly economical manner to lower energy costs and space. Individual neurons within a network may encode independent stimulus components to allow a minimal number of neurons to represent whole stimulus characteristics efficiently. This basic principle may fundamentally change our view of how billions of neurons organize themselves into complex circuits to operate and generate the most powerful intelligent cognition in nature. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison between past and future extreme precipitations simulated by global and regional climate models over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Gao Yanhong , Xiao Linhong , Chen Deliang , Xu Jianwei , Zhang Hongwen
Published: August 2017

Past studies on regional climate change over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) have mainly looked at changes in the mean climate. This study focuses on past and future extreme precipitations, simulated by global and regional climate models over the TP. To assess the influence of large‐scale forcing on dynamic downscaling using Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, downscaling results for the historical period (1980–2005) with ERA‐Interim reanalysis and CCSM4 as forcings are evaluated against a gridded observational data set. These are inter‐compared before future projections for the period 2005–2100 under two scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). The followings are obtained: (1) the reanalysis greatly overestimates not only the mean, but also extreme precipitation. The overestimation in CCSM4 is even larger than that of the reanalysis. (2) The two downscalings outperform their forcings, reflected by reduced overestimation for extreme precipitation frequency, increased spatial pattern correlations and more accurate linear trends, especially for the downscaling driven by CCSM. This demonstrates the constraining power of the fine‐scale modelling and the importance of more realistic representations of surface forcing and related processes in the TP. (3) CCSM4 projects a general wetting across the whole TP with increases of heavy precipitation as well as the wetting intensification with warming. WRF also projects an overall wetting, but the wetting is less sensitive to the warming and there is more of an increase in light precipitation frequency. More importantly, a diverse pattern with wetting in the north and drying in the south is found in the dynamical downscaling in contrast to the uniform wetting in its forcing.
Correlation between RUST assessments of fracture healing to structural and biomechanical properties
Authors: Cooke Margaret E. , Hussein Amira I. , Lybrand Kyle E. , Wulff Alexander , Simmons Erin , Choi Jeffrey H. , Litrenta Jody , Ricci William M. , Nascone Jason W. , O'Toole Robert V. , Morgan Elise F. , Gerstenfeld Louis C. , Tornetta Paul
Published: August 2017

Radiographic Union Score for Tibia (RUST) and modified RUST (mRUST) are radiographic tools for quantitatively evaluating fracture healing using a cortical scoring system. This tool has high intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs); however, little evidence has evaluated the scores against the physical properties of bone healing. Closed, stabilized fractures were made in the femora of C3H/HeJ male mice (8–12 week‐old) of two dietary groups: A control and a phosphate restricted diet group. Micro‐computed tomography (µCT) and torsion testing were carried out at post‐operative days (POD) 14, 21, 35, and 42 (n = 10–16) per group time‐point. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographic views were constructed from the µCT scans and scored by five raters. The raters also indicated if the fracture were healed. ICCs were 0.71 (mRUST) and 0.63 (RUST). Both RUST scores were positively correlated with callus bone mineral density (BMD) (r = 0.85 and 0.80, p < 0.001) and bone volume fraction (BV/TV) (r = 0.86 and 0.80, p < 0.001). Both RUST scores positively correlated with callus strength (r = 0.35 and 0.26, p < 0.012) and rigidity (r = 0.50 and 0.39, p < 0.001). Radiographically healed calluses had a mRUST ≥13 and a RUST ≥10 and had excellent relationship to structural and biomechanical metrics. Effect of delayed healing due to phosphate dietary restrictions was found at later time points with all mechanical properties (p < 0.011), however no differences found in the RUST scores (p > 0.318). Clinical relevance of this study is both RUST scores showed high correlation to physical properties of healing and generally distinguished healed vs. non‐healed fractures. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:945–953, 2018.
Effect of microwave freeze drying on quality and energy supply in drying of barley grass
Authors: Cao Xiaohuang , Zhang Min , Mujumdar Arun S , Zhong Qifeng , Wang Zhushang
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Young barley grass leaves are well‐known for containing the antioxidant substances flavonoid and chlorophyll. However, low product quality and energy efficiency exist with respect to the dehydration of barley grass leaves. To improve energy supply and the quality of barley grass, microwave heating instead of contact heat was applied for the freeze drying of barley grass at a pilot scale at 1, 1.5 and 2 W g–1, respectively; After drying, energy supply and quality parameters of color, moisture content, chlorophyll, flavonoids, odors of dried barley grass were determined to evaluate the feasibility of the study.

RESULTS

Microwave freeze drying (MFD) allowed a low energy supply and high contents of chlorophyll and flavonoids. A lightness value of 60.0, a green value of –11.5 and an energy supply of 0.61 kW h–1 g–1 were observed in 1.5 W g–1 MFD; whereas drying time (7 h) decreased by 42% compared to contact heating. Maximum content of flavonoid and chlorophyll was 11.7 and 12.8 g kg–1 barley grass. Microwave heating leads to an odor change larger than that for contact heating observed for the freeze drying of barley grass.

CONCLUSION

MFD retains chlorophyll and flavonoids, as well as colors and odors of samples, and also decreases energy consumption in the freeze drying of barley grass. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Best practices for multidisciplinary integration of a DCIS genomic assay into clinical practice
Authors: Alvarado Michael , Lucci Anthony , Manders Jennifer
Published: August 2017

Most newly diagnosed ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is treated with breast‐conserving surgery (BCS) ± radiation therapy (RT). A key challenge is deciding whether or not to include RT with BCS. This decision is often determined by the degree of risk associated with disease recurrence. However, methods for risk assessment have not kept pace with diagnostic advances. The DCIS Score is an independent predictor and quantifier of individualized recurrence risk in patients with DCIS. Although the test is the only available genomic classifier for DCIS, the degree of adoption is varied, and it has not yet been fully accepted as standard practice. Recognizing the importance of individualizing recurrence assessment in patients with DCIS, the authors convened to review relevant clinical data, share best practices, and establish recommendations regarding how the assay should be incorporated into the decision‐making process. Based on their clinical experiences, the authors concluded that effective integration of the DCIS Score should involve shared decision‐making between surgeons and other specialties (radiation oncologists, pathologists, patient navigators, and physician assistants), with the patient's preference being a primary consideration. This manuscript aims to provide easy‐to‐use, clear‐cut, and practical guidance to help physicians utilize the DCIS Score to improve risk assessment and inform treatment decisions for their patients with DCIS, including how to understand, run, interpret, and communicate the actionable results to patients.
Dynamics of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Aggarwal Sadhna , Sharma Suresh C. , N.Das Satya
Published: August 2017

Background and Objectives

The immune dysfunction in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients is one of the major factors for growth and dissemination of tumor affecting disease‐free survival.

Methods

The phenotypic and functional characteristics of Regulatory T (Treg) CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ subsets in OSCC patients were assessed by multicolor flow cytometry and its effector component (TGF‐β) by Western blot and qRT‐PCR.

Results

An increased (P < 0.05) prevalence of Treg phenotypes (CD4+CD25+, CD4+FoxP3+, CD8+FoxP3+, CD4+CD25+FoxP3+) was observed in the peripheral circulation of OSCC patients that positively correlated with clinicopathological features. The increased frequency of CD4+CD8+CD25+FoxP3+, a unique T cell subset, CTLA‐4+, GITR+, NrP1+, HLA‐DR+, CD127+, Tbet+, TGF‐β+, and granzyme B+ (GzmB) Tregs also showed a significantly higher prevalence in OSCC patients. Functionally, CD4+FoxP3+ Tregs showed skewed expression of IL‐2, IL‐10, and IL‐35 in patients as compared with the normal controls. Further, enhanced expression of CCR5 and CCR7 on Tregs with up regulation of their ligands (CCL5, CCL19, and CCL21) in tumor cells indicates efficient recruitment and trafficking of Tregs to the tumor site.

Conclusion

It seems reasonable to assume that modulation of functional dynamics of selective Treg subsets may be useful in developing immunotherapeutic strategy for OSCC patients.
Semicircular canal dehiscence among idiopathic intracranial hypertension patients
Authors: Kuo Phoebe , Bagwell Kenneth A. , Mongelluzzo Gino , Schutt Christopher A. , Malhotra Ajay , Khokhar Babar , Kveton John F.
Published: August 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

The cause of superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) is unknown. Because of a demonstrated association with tegmental defects and obesity, some have suggested idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) could contribute by eroding the bone over the canal and resulting in SSCD. However, an association between IIH and SSCD has not previously been evaluated. Our objective was to evaluate an association between IIH and SSCD.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed of opening pressures for consecutive patients presenting at a lumbar puncture clinic between August 2012 and October 2015. Imaging for patients who also had thin‐sectioned computed tomography (CT) imaging was reviewed for the presence of radiographic SSCD. Association between IIH and SSCD was evaluated using the Student t test and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

One hundred twenty‐one patients had both a lumbar puncture performed and thin‐sectioned CT imaging available, of which 24 patients (19.8%) met the criteria for IIH with an opening pressure >25 cm H2O. The remaining 97 patients (80.2%) did not have elevated opening pressures and served as the control cohort. None of the 24 patients with IIH had radiographic SSCD, whereas eight of the 97 patients (8.2%) without IIH had radiographic SSCD. The average opening pressure in patients without radiographic SSCD was 20.2 cm H2O compared to 19.3 cm H2O in patients with radiographic SSCD (P = .521). In multivariate logistic regression controlling for age, body mass index, gender, and comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia), opening pressure was not a significant predictor of radiographic SSCD.

Conclusions

The results of this retrospective pilot study do not suggest an association between IIH and SSCD.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 128:1196–1199, 2018
Effect of postoperative radiotherapy in pT1pN1cM0 and pT2p/cN0cM0 oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Kadletz Lorenz , Heiduschka Gregor , Wolf Axel , Haug‐Lettenbichler Anna , Poyntner Lukas , Primosch Thomas , Rogatsch Hermann , Formanek Michael , Stadler Matthias , Kenner Lukas , Eckel Hans E. , Brunner Markus
Published: August 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Consulting of patients with oropharyngeal carcinoma, classified as pT1pN1cM0 and pT2p/cN0cM0, about postoperative radiotherapy is a precarious task as data are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of postoperative radiotherapy for patients with intermediate‐stage oropharyngeal carcinoma.

Study Design

Multicentric retrospective study.

Methods

This analysis was conducted at seven Austrian institutions and included data of patients treated between 2000 and 2012. A total of 81 patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma were included, of whom 33 patients received postoperative radiotherapy. p16 status determined by immunohistochemistry was available in 68 patients.

Results

Median follow‐up was 47.9 months. Postoperative radiotherapy showed no benefits in regard to overall survival (P = .701). In contrast, disease‐free survival was significantly shortened in all patients without postoperative radiotherapy (P = .001). When dividing the cohort in dependence of p16, p16‐positive patients did not benefit from postoperative radiotherapy regarding overall and disease‐free survival (P = .934 and P = .102), whereas p16‐negative patients showed improved disease‐free survival after postoperative radiotherapy (P = .007). Multivariate analysis showed that outcome of postoperative radiotherapy is dependent on p16 status.

Conclusions

In terms of disease‐free survival, patients with p16‐negative tumors may benefit from postoperative radiotherapy, whereas survival of p16‐positive patients is good regardless of additional treatment.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1075–1082, 2018
The effect of inferior turbinate surgery on ear symptoms
Authors: Harju Teemu , Kivekäs Ilkka , Numminen Jura , Rautiainen Markus
Published: August 2017

Objective

The aim of this placebo‐controlled study was to evaluate the effect of various inferior turbinate surgery techniques on Eustachian tube dysfunction‐related symptoms.

Study Design

Outcomes were evaluated using the Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Questionnaire (ETDQ‐7) and tympanometry results.

Methods

A total of 72 consecutively blinded and randomized adult patients with enlarged inferior turbinates due to persistent year‐round rhinitis underwent either a radiofrequency ablation, diode laser, microdebrider‐assisted inferior turbinoplasty, or sham surgery procedure. Assessments were conducted prior to surgery and 3 months subsequent to the surgery.

Results

In the evaluation of all patients, radiofrequency ablation, microdebrider‐assisted inferior turbinoplasty, and sham surgery procedures decreased the ETDQ‐7 total score significantly. In a three‐way analysis of covariance, there were no significant differences in the results between sham surgery and any of the active treatment procedures. Allergic sensitization, sex, and age also had no effect on the results. There were no significant changes in the pre‐ and postoperative amounts of abnormal tympanometry curves or in the pre‐ and postoperative tympanometric peak pressure values in the actively treated patients or in the sham surgery group.

Conclusion

The improvement of Eustachian tube dysfunction‐related symptoms due to surgery of the anterior half of the inferior turbinate was found to be equal to placebo. The findings of this study do not support the use of reduction of the anterior half of the inferior turbinate as a sole procedure intended to treat the ear symptoms assessed by the ETDQ‐7 questionnaire.

Level of Evidence

1b. Laryngoscope, 128:568–572, 2018
Gastrostomy in the era of minimally invasive head and neck cancer surgery
Authors: Frenkel Catherine H. , Yang Jie , Zhang Mengru , Ferrara Anthony , Telem Dana A. , Samara Ghassan J.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Minimally invasive transoral robotic surgery (TORS) is less likely to necessitate gastrostomy tube (GT) following resection of head and neck lesions versus conventional open procedures. However, the incidence of and indications for GT after TORS have not been reported in detail. This study defines the incidence of intra‐ and postoperative gastrostomy following robotic resection of advanced head and neck disease. It seeks to clarify the relevance of GT after TORS.

Study Design

Adult patients undergoing TORS and neck dissection from 2008 to 2014 were identified in the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System all‐payer administrative database.

Methods

Demographic data and timing of GT in relation to surgery were recorded. Emergency department (ED) visits and inpatient readmissions were compared with multivariable logistic analysis.

Results

Of the 441 included patients, immediate, delayed, and total GT incidence within the first postoperative year was 9.5%, 11.6%, and 21.1%, respectively. Gastrostomy tube complications resulted in 4.5% of 30‐day ED visits, 3.3% of 30‐day readmissions, and 3.5% of 90‐day readmissions. Thirty‐nine percent of 90‐day readmissions were linked to poor postoperative oral intake. Delayed GT status was associated with an increase in 30‐day ED visits, and 30‐ or 90‐day readmissions attributable to poor oral intake (P = 0.10, P < 0.0001, 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

Even in the era of minimally invasive TORS, impaired oral intake is a significant postoperative burden to head and neck cancer patients with advanced disease. Attention to patient risk factors combined with a complicated hospital course may identify patients benefiting from early GT.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 128:847–851, 2018
Intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma: Outcome review
Authors: Merna Catherine , Kita Ashley , Wester Jacob , Diaz‐Aguilar Daniel , Goldstein Jeffrey D. , Palma Diaz Fernando , Blackwell Keith , St. John Maie A.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Identify the effect of patient characteristics, disease traits, and treatment modality on patient outcomes in the rare disease process of intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma.

Study Design

Retrospective review of institutional case records and literature.

Methods

This study includes one case report, a literature review of the MEDLINE database from 1950 through June 2017 using keywords “intraosseous” and “mucoepidermoid,” and a query of the University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Pathology database for all documented cases of intraosseous mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the head and neck.

Results

Indicators of poorer prognosis were male gender (P = 0.0071) and higher histological grade (P = 0.0095). Lesion site, size, association with odontogenic cyst, and treatment type did not have a statistically significant correlation with patient outcomes. There also was no statistically significant correlation observed between treatment modality and recurrent or progressive disease when stratified by histological grade of the cancer.

Conclusion

This study identified male gender and high histological tumor grade as poor prognostic indicators; however, it did not reveal a statistically significant relationship between treatment modality and patient outcomes. Data regarding patient outcomes following treatment was limited due to loss to follow‐up, suggesting that further investigation is required. Based on this review, decisions regarding treatment should be clinically guided and individually tailored to the patient's baseline health, disease severity, and the patient's treatment goals. A multi‐disciplinary conference, as was utilized in the presented case report, may be the best approach to treatment planning for these patients at this time.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1083–1092, 2018
Sonographic differentiation between lymphatic and metastatic diseases in cervical lymphadenopathy
Authors: Strassen Ulrich , Geisweid Christina , Hofauer Benedikt , Knopf Andreas
Published: August 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

The spectrum of differential diagnosis in cervical lymphadenopathy is extremely broad. In lymphoma and inflammatory diseases, surgical approaches are restricted to diagnostic lymph extirpation, whereas metastatic outgrowth into regional lymph nodes usually requires neck dissection. Lymph node surgery has to manage the balancing act between sufficient radicality and preservation of functional structures. The current study, therefore, aimed to identify parameters to differentiate between lymph nodes of lymphatic and metastatic origin.

Study Design

Single‐center, retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Clinical and sonographic parameters from all patients who underwent diagnostic cervical lymphadenectomy from 2010 to 2015 (N = 262) were included in this retrospective analysis. Parameters with significant differences between the two subgroups were utilized to create a clinical algorithm to distinguish between cervical lymphadenopathy of lymphatic and metastatic genesis.

Results

Statistically significant differences between the two subgroups could be shown for clinical (gender, age, nicotine/alcohol abuse, B symptoms, history of cutaneous melanoma, or lymphoma) and ultrasonographic parameters (string‐of‐beads confirmation, bilaterality, homogenous echostructure, localization in level I, long‐to‐short axis ratio, and hilar vascularity). The proposed algorithm yielded a sensitivity of 92.4% for metastatic disease.

Conclusions

The implemented algorithm based on ultrasonographic and clinical criteria contributes to one‐step surgical approaches that guarantee a sufficient radicality with a minimum of functional loss.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:859–863, 2018
Volumetric analysis of olfactory neuroblastoma skull base laterality and implications on neck disease
Authors: Marinelli John P. , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Link Michael J. , Moore Eric J. , Price Daniel L. , Lees Katherine A. , Kaczor Mark W. , Janus Jeffrey R.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To determine if the laterality of primary tumors in patients with olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) influenced the pattern and development of neck disease.

Methods

Using a retrospective cohort study design from 1994 to 2015, the primary tumors of patients who either presented with or developed neck disease were volumetrically analyzed using iPlan software (version 3.0.0, BrainLAB, Feldkirchen, Germany) by two independent observers. Agreement of volume‐derived sidedness was assessed with a kappa statistic, whereas agreement in volume‐derived degree of tumor laterality was evaluated with an intraclass correlation coefficient. A one‐sample t test was used to assess the difference in dominant percentage between the two observers.

Results

Sixty‐one patients with histological diagnosis and treatment of ONB at our institution were identified. Twenty‐four patients exhibited neck involvement, 13 of whom could be volumetrically analyzed. Tumors that were greater than 75% eccentric to one side all exhibited contralateral disease, whereas the majority of unilateral neck disease was associated with relatively midline masses. Within the entire cohort, ipsilateral level 2 lymph nodes displayed the highest involvement (83%, 20 of 24), followed by ipsilateral level 1 (54%, 13 of 24), contralateral level 2 (46%, 11 of 24), contralateral level 1 (21%, 5 of 24), and ipsilateral level 3 (21%, 5 of 24).

Conclusion

Ipsilateral neck involvement frequently was observed; however, the degree of ONB primary site laterality did not appear to have implications on the development of contralateral neck disease. Therefore, when considering elective therapy to the neck, ONB laterality should not be used to justify unilateral neck treatment.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:864–870, 2018
Expiratory muscle strength training for radiation‐associated aspiration after head and neck cancer: A case series
Authors: Hutcheson Katherine A. , Barrow Martha P. , Plowman Emily K. , Lai Stephen Y. , Fuller Clifton David , Barringer Denise A. , Eapen George , Wang Yiqun , Hubbard Rachel , Jimenez Sarah K. , Little Leila G. , Lewin Jan S.
Published: August 2017

Objective/Hypothesis

Expiratory muscle strength training (EMST) is a simple, inexpensive, device‐driven exercise therapy. Therapeutic potential of EMST was examined among head and neck cancer survivors with chronic radiation‐associated aspiration.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Maximum expiratory pressures (MEPs) were examined among n = 64 radiation‐associated aspirators (per penetration–aspiration scale score ≥ 6 on modified barium swallow). Pre–post EMST outcomes were examined in a nested subgroup of patients (n = 26) who enrolled in 8 weeks of EMST (25 repetitions, 5 days/week, 75% load). Nonparametric analyses examined effects of EMST on the primary endpoint MEPs. Secondary measures included swallowing safety (Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity [DIGEST]), perceived dysphagia (M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory [MDADI]), and diet (performance status scale for head and neck cancer patients [PSSHN]).

Results

Compared to sex‐matched published normative data, MEPs were reduced in 91% (58 of 64) of aspirators (mean ± standard deviation: 89 ± 37). Twenty‐six patients enrolled in EMST and three patients withdrew. MEPs improved on average 57% (87 ± 29 to 137 ± 44 cm H2O, P < 0.001) among 23 who completed EMST. Swallowing safety (per DIGEST) improved significantly (P = 0.03). Composite MDADI scores improved post‐EMST (pre‐EMST: 59.9 ± 17.1, post‐EMST: 62.7 ± 13.9, P = 0.13). PSSHN diet scores did not significantly change.

Conclusion

MEPs were reduced in chronic radiation‐associated aspirators relative to normative data, suggesting that expiratory strengthening could be a novel therapeutic target to improve airway protection in this population. Similar to findings in neurogenic populations, these data also suggest improved expiratory pressure‐generating capabilities after EMST and translation to functional improvements in swallowing safety in chronic radiation‐associated aspirators.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1044–1051, 2018
Fully phase‐encoded MRI near metallic implants using ultrashort echo times and broadband excitation
Authors: Wiens Curtis N. , Artz Nathan S. , Jang Hyungseok , McMillan Alan B. , Koch Kevin M. , Reeder Scott B.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To develop a fully phase‐encoded MRI method for distortion‐free imaging near metallic implants, in clinically feasible acquisition times.

Theory and Methods

An accelerated 3D fully phase‐encoded acquisition with broadband excitation and ultrashort echo times is presented, which uses a broadband radiofrequency pulse to excite the entire off‐resonance induced by the metallic implant. Furthermore, fully phase‐encoded imaging is used to prevent distortions caused by frequency encoding, and to obtain ultrashort echo times for rapidly decaying signal.

Results

Phantom and in vivo acquisitions were used to describe the relationship among excitation bandwidth, signal loss near metallic implants, and T1 weighting. Shorter radiofrequency pulses captured signal closer to the implant by improving spectral coverage and allowing shorter echo times, whereas longer pulses improved T1 weighting through larger maximum attainable flip angles. Comparisons of fully phase‐encoded acquisition with broadband excitation and ultrashort echo times to T1‐weighted multi‐acquisition with variable resonance image combination selective were performed in phantoms and subjects with metallic knee and hip prostheses. These acquisitions had similar contrast and acquisition efficiency.

Conclusions

Accelerated fully phase‐encoded acquisitions with ultrashort echo times and broadband excitation can generate distortion free images near metallic implants in clinically feasible acquisition times. Magn Reson Med 79:2156–2163, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.