bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells in hepatic fibrosis
Authors: DeLeve Laurie D.
Published: August 2014

Capillarization, lack of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) fenestration, and formation of an organized basement membrane not only precedes fibrosis, but is also permissive for hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrosis. Thus, dysregulation of the LSEC phenotype is a critical step in the fibrotic process. Both a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐stimulated, nitric oxide (NO)‐independent pathway and a VEGF‐stimulated NO‐dependent pathway are necessary to maintain the differentiated LSEC phenotype. The NO‐dependent pathway is impaired in capillarization and activation of this pathway downstream from NO restores LSEC differentiation in vivo. Restoration of LSEC differentiation in vivo promotes HSC quiescence, enhances regression of fibrosis, and prevents progression of cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2015;61:1740–1746)
Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)‐1 creates a premetastatic niche in the liver through SDF‐1/CXCR4‐dependent neutrophil recruitment in mice
Authors: Seubert Bastian , Grünwald Barbara , Kobuch Julia , Cui Haissi , Schelter Florian , Schaten Susanne , Siveke Jens T. , Lim Ngee H. , Nagase Hideaki , Simonavicius Nicole , Heikenwalder Mathias , Reinheckel Thomas , Sleeman Jonathan P. , Janssen Klaus‐Peter , Knolle Percy A. , Krüger Achim
Published: August 2014

Due to its ability to inhibit prometastatic matrix metalloproteinases, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMP)‐1 has been thought to suppress tumor metastasis. However, elevated systemic levels of TIMP‐1 correlate with poor prognosis in cancer patients, suggesting a metastasis‐stimulating role of TIMP‐1. In colorectal cancer patients, tumor as well as plasma TIMP‐1 levels were correlated with synchronous liver metastasis or distant metastasis‐associated disease relapse. In mice, high systemic TIMP‐1 levels increased the liver susceptibility towards metastasis by triggering the formation of a premetastatic niche. This promoted hepatic metastasis independent of origin or intrinsic metastatic potential of tumor cells. High systemic TIMP‐1 led to increased hepatic SDF‐1 levels, which in turn promoted recruitment of neutrophils to the liver. Both inhibition of SDF‐1‐mediated neutrophil recruitment and systemic depletion of neutrophils reduced TIMP‐1‐induced increased liver susceptibility towards metastasis. This indicates a crucial functional role of neutrophils in the TIMP‐1‐induced premetastatic niche. Conclusion: Our results identify TIMP‐1 as an essential promoter of hepatic premetastatic niche formation. (Hepatology 2015;61:238–248)
A screen in mice uncovers repression of lipoprotein lipase by microRNA‐29a as a mechanism for lipid distribution away from the liver
Authors: Mattis Aras N. , Song Guisheng , Hitchner Kelly , Kim Roy Y. , Lee Andrew Y. , Sharma Amar D. , Malato Yann , McManus Michael T. , Esau Christine C. , Koller Erich , Koliwad Suneil , Lim Lee P. , Maher Jacquelyn J. , Raffai Robert L. , Willenbring Holger
Published: August 2014

Identification of microRNAs (miRNAs) that regulate lipid metabolism is important to advance the understanding and treatment of some of the most common human diseases. In the liver, a few key miRNAs have been reported that regulate lipid metabolism, but since many genes contribute to hepatic lipid metabolism, we hypothesized that other such miRNAs exist. To identify genes repressed by miRNAs in mature hepatocytes in vivo, we injected adult mice carrying floxed Dicer1 alleles with an adenoassociated viral vector expressing Cre recombinase specifically in hepatocytes. By inactivating Dicer in adult quiescent hepatocytes we avoided the hepatocyte injury and regeneration observed in previous mouse models of global miRNA deficiency in hepatocytes. Next, we combined gene and miRNA expression profiling to identify candidate gene/miRNA interactions involved in hepatic lipid metabolism and validated their function in vivo using antisense oligonucleotides. A candidate gene that emerged from our screen was lipoprotein lipase (Lpl), which encodes an enzyme that facilitates cellular uptake of lipids from the circulation. Unlike in energy‐dependent cells like myocytes, LPL is normally repressed in adult hepatocytes. We identified miR‐29a as the miRNA responsible for repressing LPL in hepatocytes, and found that decreasing hepatic miR‐29a levels causes lipids to accumulate in mouse livers. Conclusion: Our screen suggests several new miRNAs are regulators of hepatic lipid metabolism. We show that one of these, miR‐29a, contributes to physiological lipid distribution away from the liver and protects hepatocytes from steatosis. Our results, together with miR‐29a's known antifibrotic effect, suggest miR‐29a is a therapeutic target in fatty liver disease. (Hepatology 2015;61:141–152)
Deletion of serine/arginine‐rich splicing factor 3 in hepatocytes predisposes to hepatocellular carcinoma in mice
Authors: Sen Supriya , Langiewicz Magda , Jumaa Hassan , Webster Nicholas J.G.
Published: August 2014

Alterations in RNA splicing are associated with cancer, but it is not clear whether they result from malignant transformation or have a causative role. We show here that hepatocyte‐specific deletion of serine/arginine‐rich splicing factor 3 (SRSF3) impairs hepatocyte maturation and metabolism in early adult life, and mice develop spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with aging. Tumor development is preceded by chronic liver disease with progressive steatosis and fibrosis. SRSF3 protects mice against CCl4‐induced fibrosis and carcinogenesis and suppresses inclusion of the profibrogenic EDA exon in fibronectin 1. Loss of SRSF3 increases expression of insulin‐like growth factor 2 and the A‐isoform of the insulin receptor, allowing aberrant activation of mitogenic signaling, promotes aberrant splicing and expression of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) genes, and activates Wnt/β‐catenin signaling leading to c‐Myc induction. Finally, SRSF3 expression is either decreased or the protein mislocalized in human HCC. Conclusion: Our data suggest a potential role for SRSF3 in preventing hepatic carcinogenesis by regulating splicing to suppress fibrosis, mitogenic splicing, and EMT. Thus, these mice may provide an attractive model to discover the pathogenic mechanisms linking aberrant pre–messenger RNA splicing with liver damage, fibrosis, and HCC. (Hepatology 2015;61:171–183)
MLL/KMT2A translocations in diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas
Authors: Gindin Tatyana , Murty Vundavalli , Alobeid Bachir , Bhagat Govind
Published: August 2014

Translocations of the histone‐lysine N‐methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) gene, formerly known as myeloid lymphoid leukemia/mixed‐lineage leukemia gene, are commonly associated with high‐risk de novo or therapy‐associated B‐cell and T‐cell lymphoblastic leukemias and myeloid neoplasms. Rare B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas harboring KMT2A translocations have been reported, but information regarding the clinical behavior of such cases is limited. Here, we describe two extranodal diffuse large B‐cell lymphomas (DLBCLs): a primary thyroid DLBCL and a large cell transformation of a splenic marginal zone lymphoma, which displayed complex karyotypes and translocations involving chromosome 11q23 targeting the KMT2A gene. The pathological and clinical characteristics of these cases are discussed in the context of previously reported lymphomas associated with different types of KMT2A genetic aberrations. In contrast to the poor clinical outcomes of patients with acute leukemias and myeloid neoplasms associated with KMT2A translocations, patients with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas, exhibiting similar translocations, appear to respond well to immunochemotherapy. Our findings add to the growing list of histone methyltransferase genes deregulated in DLBCL and highlight the diversity of mechanisms, altering the function of epigenetic modifier genes in lymphomas.
Age‐stratified 5‐year risks of cervical precancer among women with enrollment and newly detectedHPVinfection
Authors: Gage Julia C. , Katki Hormuzd A. , Schiffman Mark , Fetterman Barbara , Poitras Nancy E. , Lorey Thomas , Cheung Li C. , Castle Philip E. , Kinney Walter K.
Published: August 2014

It is unclear whether a woman's age influences her risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 or worse (CIN3+) upon detection of HPV. A large change in risk as women age would influence vaccination and screening policies. Among 972,029 women age 30–64 undergoing screening with Pap and HPV testing (Hybrid Capture 2, Qiagen, Germantown, MD) at Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC), we calculated age‐specific 5‐year CIN3+ risks among women with HPV infections detected at enrollment, and among women with “newly detected” HPV infections at their second screening visit. Women (57,899, 6.0%) had an enrollment HPV infection. Among the women testing HPV negative at enrollment with a second screening visit, 16,724 (3.3%) had a newly detected HPV infection at their second visit. Both enrollment and newly detected HPV rates declined with age (p < 0.001). Women with enrollmentversusnewly detected HPV infection had higher 5‐year CIN3+ risks: 8.5%versus3.9%, (p < 0.0001). Risks did not increase with age but declined slightly from 30–34 years to 60–64 years: 9.4%versus7.4% (p =0.017) for enrollment HPV and 5.1%versus3.5% (p =0.014) for newly detected HPV. Among women age 30–64 in an established screening program, women with newly detected HPV infections were at lower risk than women with enrollment infections, suggesting reduced benefit vaccinating women at older ages. Although the rates of HPV infection declined dramatically with age, the subsequent CIN3+ risks associated with HPV infection declined only slightly. The CIN3+ risks among older women are sufficiently elevated to warrant continued screening through age 65.
CO2 Reduction to Substitute Natural Gas: Toward a Global Low Carbon Energy System
Authors: Walspurger Stéphane , Haije Wim G. , Louis Benoît
Published: August 2014

Methane has proven to be an outstanding energy carrier and is the main component of natural gas and substitute natural gas (SNG). SNG may be synthesized from the CO2 and hydrogen available from various sources and may be introduced into the existing infrastructure used by the natural gas sector for transport and distribution to power plants, industry, and households. Renewable SNG may be generated when H2 is produced from renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro. In parallel, the use of CO2‐containing feed streams from fossil origin or preferably, from biomass, permits the avoidance of CO2 emissions. In particular, the biomass‐to‐SNG conversion, combined with the use of renewable H2 obtained by electrolysis, appears a promising way to reduce CO2 emissions considerably, while avoiding energy intensive CO2 separation from the bio feed streams. The existing technologies for the production of SNG are described in this short review, along with the need for renewed research and development efforts to improve the energy efficiency of the renewables‐to‐SNG conversion chain. Innovative technologies aiming at a more efficient management of the heat delivered in the exothermic methanation process are therefore highly desirable. The production of renewable SNG through the Sabatier process is a key process to the transition towards a global sustainable energy system, and is complementary to other renewable energy carriers such as methanol, dimethyl ether, formic acid, and Fischer‐Tropsch fuels.
Representation of the Protein Universe using Classifications, Maps, and Networks
Authors: Ben‐Tal Nir , Kolodny Rachel
Published: August 2014

A meaningful and coherent global picture of the protein universe is needed to better understand protein evolution and the underlying biophysics. We survey the studies that tackled this fundamental challenge, providing a glimpse of the protein space. A global picture represents all known local relationships among proteins, and needs to do so in a comprehensive and accurate manner. Three types of global representations can be used: classifications, maps, and networks. In these, the local relationships are derived, based on the similarity of the proteins′ sequences, structures, or functions (or a combination of these). Alternatively, the local relationships can be co‐occurrences of elements in the protein universe. The representations can be based on different objects: full polypeptide chains, fragments, such as structural domains, or even smaller motifs. Different protein qualities were revealed in each study; many point out the uniqueness of domains of the alpha/beta SCOP (structural classification of proteins) class.
Morphological alterations in the synganglion and integument of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks exposed to aqueous extracts of neem leaves (Azadirachta indicaA. JUSS)
Authors: Remedio R.N. , Nunes P.H. , Anholeto L.A. , Camargo‐Mathias M.I.
Published: August 2014

Currently, the necessity of controlling infestation by ticks, especially by Rhipicephalus sanguineus, has led researchers and public health managers around the world to search for new and more efficient control methods. This way, we can highlight neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) leaf, bark, and seed extracts, which have been very effective on tick control, and moreover causing less damage to the environment and to the host. This study showed the potential of neem as a control method for R. sanguineus through morphological and morphometric evaluation of the integument and synganglion of females, in semiengorged stage. To attain this, routine techniques of optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and morphometry of the cuticle and subcuticle of the integument were applied. Expressive morphological alterations were observed in both organs, presenting a dose‐dependent effect. Integument epithelial cells and nerve cells of the synganglion showed signs of cell vacuolation, dilated intercellular boundaries, and cellular disorganization, alterations not previously reported in studies with neem. In addition, variations in subcuticle thickness were also observed. In general, the effects of neem are multiple, and affect the morphology and physiology of target animals in various ways. The results presented in this work are the first evidence of its effects in the coating and nervous system of ticks, thus allowing an indication of neem aqueous extracts as a potential control method of the brown dog tick and opening new perspectives on acaricide use. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:989–998, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Remineralization of Demineralized Dentin Induced by Amine‐Terminated PAMAM Dendrimer
Authors: Liang Kunneng , Yuan He , Li Jianshu , Yang Jiaojiao , Zhou Xin , He Libang , Cheng Lei , Gao Yuan , Xu Xin , Zhou Xuedong , Li Jiyao
Published: August 2014

The remineralization of demineralized dentin with biomimetic templates is of great interest in the fields of material science and stomatology. Amine‐terminated PAMAM dendrimer (PAMAM‐NH2), which possesses a highly ordered architecture and many calcium coordination sites, may be a desirable template for inducing dentin remineralization. In this study, the remineralization effect of the third generation PAMAM‐NH2 (G3‐PAMAM‐NH2) on demineralized dentin is investigated. Demineralized dentin samples are treated with G3‐PAMAM‐NH2 solution (1 mg · mL−1), and then immersed in artificial saliva for different periods. The results confirm that G3‐PAMAM‐NH2 has a good binding capacity to demineralized dentin and can induce needle‐like crystals to precipitate both on the dentin surface and in the dentinal tubules. A good ability of the regenerated minerals to resist acid challenge and good biocompatibility of G3‐PAMAM‐NH2 are also proved. Overall, the results suggest that G3‐PAMAM‐NH2 is a promising biomaterial for inducing dentin remineralization.
Bulk synthesis of amorphous and nano‐crystalline materials by spray forming
Authors: Srivastava V. C. , Ellendt N. , Meyer C. , Uhlenwinkel V.
Published: August 2014

Bulk amorphous and nano‐crystalline metallic materials have been observed to possess excellent mechanical and physical properties. The conventional process routes, to synthesize such materials, are restricted by their ability to achieve rapid solidification, which limits the dimensions of the materials produced. In the last 10–12 years, spray forming has been employed to avoid these limitations by using its capability of layer by layer deposition of undercooled droplets. The current literature indicates that the opportunities provided by this process can be effectively utilized to produce bulk materials in a single step. In this paper, an attempt has been made to bring out the developments in the synthesis of bulk amorphous and/or nano‐crystalline materials by spray forming. The effect of process parameters, droplet size distribution in the atomized spray, the thermal conditions of droplets prior to deposition and the deposition surface conditions have been discussed. It has been demonstrate that a layer by layer deposition of undercooled droplets of glass forming alloys on a relatively cold deposition surface is the suitable condition to achieve bulk amorphous/nano‐crystalline materials.
Genetic analysis of colon tumors induced by a dietary carcinogen PhIP in CYP1A humanized mice: Identification of mutation of β‐catenin/Ctnnb1 as the driver gene for the carcinogenesis
Authors: Wang Hong , Zhou Hong , Liu Anna , Guo Xiangyi , Yang Chung S.
Published: August 2014

Replacing mouse Cyp1a with human CYP1A enables the humanized CYP1A mice to mimic human metabolism of the dietary carcinogen, 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine (PhIP), by N2‐hydroxylation to a proximate carcinogen. Our previous study demonstrated that PhIP, combined with the dextrin sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis, induces colon carcinogenesis in hCYP1A mice. Here, we employed whole exome sequencing and found multiple gene mutations in PhIP/DSS‐induced colon tumors. Mutations in the exon 3 of Ctnnb1/β‐catenin, however, were the predominant events. We further sequenced the key fragments of Apc, Ctnnb1, and Kras, because mutations of these genes in the humans are commonly found as the drivers of colorectal cancer. Mutations on either codon 32 or 34 in the exon 3 of Ctnnb1 were found in 39 out of 42 tumors, but no mutation was found in either Apc or Kras. The sequence context of codons 32 and 34 suggests that PhIP targets +3G in a TGGA motif of Ctnnb1. Since mutations that activate Wnt signal is a major driving force for human colorectal cancers, we conclude that the mutated β‐catenin is the driver in PhIP/DSS‐induced colon carcinogenesis. This result suggests that the colon tumors in hCYP1A mice mimic human colorectal carcinogenesis not only in the dietary etiology involving PhIP, but also in the aberrant activation of the Wnt signaling pathway as the driving force. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Roles of Cellular Nanomechanics in Cancer
Authors: Yallapu Murali M. , Katti Kalpana S. , Katti Dinesh R. , Mishra Sanjay R. , Khan Sheema , Jaggi Meena , Chauhan Subhash C.
Published: August 2014

The biomechanical properties of cells and tissues may be instrumental in increasing our understanding of cellular behavior and cellular manifestations of diseases such as cancer. Nanomechanical properties can offer clinical translation of therapies beyond what are currently employed. Nanomechanical properties, often measured by nanoindentation methods using atomic force microscopy, may identify morphological variations, cellular binding forces, and surface adhesion behaviors that efficiently differentiate normal cells and cancer cells. The aim of this review is to examine current research involving the general use of atomic force microscopy/nanoindentation in measuring cellular nanomechanics; various factors and instrumental conditions that influence the nanomechanical properties of cells; and implementation of nanoindentation methods to distinguish cancer cells from normal cells or tissues. Applying these fundamental nanomechanical properties to current discoveries in clinical treatment may result in greater efficiency in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer, which ultimately can change the lives of patients.
A variety of (3 + 1)‐dimensional Burgers equations derived by using the Burgers recursion operator
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul‐Majid
Published: August 2014

A new variety of (3 + 1)‐dimensional Burgers equations is presented. The recursion operator of the Burgers equation is employed to establish these higher‐dimensional integrable models. A generalized dispersion relation and a generalized form for the one kink solutions is developed. The new equations generate distinct solitons structures and distinct dispersion relations as well. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Existence results of stochastic impulsive systems with expectations‐dependent nonlinear terms
Authors: Shen Lijuan , Wu Qidi
Published: August 2014

In this paper, sufficient conditions are established for the existence and uniqueness of global solutions to stochastic impulsive systems with expectations in the nonlinear terms. The maximal interval and the estimate of mild solutions are also discussed. These results are obtained by using the fixed point theorem, interval partition, and Lyapunov‐like technique. Finally, examples are given to illustrate the theory. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human Beta‐papillomavirus infection and keratinocyte carcinomas
Authors: Quint Koen D , Genders Roel E , de Koning Maurits NC , Borgogna Cinzia , Gariglio Marisa , Bouwes Bavinck Jan Nico , Doorbar John , Feltkamp Mariet C
Published: August 2014

Although the role of oncogenic human Alpha‐papillomaviruses (HPVs) in the development of mucosal carcinomas at different body sites (eg cervix, anus, oropharynx) is fully recognized, a role for HPV in keratinocyte carcinomas (KCs; basal and squamous cell carcinomas) of the skin is not yet clear. KCs are the most common cancers in Caucasians, with the major risk factor being ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. A possible role for Beta‐HPV types (BetaPV) in the development of KC was suggested several decades ago, supported by a number of epidemiological studies. Our current review summarizes the recent molecular and histopathological evidence in support of a causal association between BetaPV and the development of KC, and outlines the suspected synergistic effect of viral gene expression with UV radiation and immune suppression. Further insights into the molecular pathways and protein interactions used by BetaPV and the host cell is likely to extend our understanding of the role of BetaPV in KC. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Salivary gland carcinomas in children and adolescents: The Italian TREP project experience
Authors: Chiaravalli Stefano , Guzzo Marco , Bisogno Gianni , De Pasquale Maria Debora , Migliorati Roberta , De Leonardis Francesco , Collini Paola , Casanova Michela , Cecchetto Giovanni , Ferrari Andrea
Published: August 2014

Background

Salivary gland carcinomas are extremely rare in pediatric age. We report the clinical features of a series of children/adolescents with salivary gland carcinomas prospectively registered in the Italian TREP (Rare Tumors in Pediatric Age) project.

Procedures

Diagnostic/therapeutic guidelines were developed and shared among Italian pediatric oncology/surgical centers.

Results

Seventeen patients were registered between 2000 and 2012, representing 19% of the cases expected to be seen based on epidemiological data. Tumors arose mainly in the parotid gland (14 cases). In most cases they were low‐grade tumors (14 cases), often with a favorable clinical presentation, and low‐stage disease. All patients underwent surgical resection, achieving histologically free margins in 9/17 cases. Thirteen of the 14 patients with parotid gland tumors had parotidectomy (10 total, 3 superficial), while one had a tumorectomy. Postoperative facial nerve lesions were reported in two cases. Adjuvant radiotherapy was given to 6 patients. The overall prognosis was good: only one patient with a huge high‐grade tumor experienced disease progression and died of the disease. The other 16 patients were alive in first continuous remission 1–8 years after diagnosis. In 4/17 cases, the salivary gland carcinoma was a second tumor occurring 6–9 years after another primary cancer.

Conclusions

This is the first reported prospective national cooperative series of pediatric salivary gland carcinoma patients. Compliance with the TREP recommendations was high. These tumors are rarely managed by pediatric oncologists/surgeons. A broader international cooperation and better networking with otolaryngologists and head‐neck surgeons expert on adult salivary gland carcinomas would be advisable. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1961–1968. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A randomized trial of cefozopran versus cefepime as empirical antibiotic treatment of febrile neutropenia in pediatric cancer patients
Authors: Sarashina Takeo , Kobayashi Ryoji , Yoshida Makoto , Toriumi Naohisa , Suzuki Daisuke , Sano Hirozumi , Azuma Hiroshi
Published: August 2014

Background

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a common and serious complication of cancer chemotherapy associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Cefozopran (CZOP) is a potential candidate for empirical monotherapy in FN. However, studies on the use of CZOP as empirical treatment for pediatric patients with FN are quite limited. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of CZOP with cefepime (CFPM) empirical monotherapy in pediatric cancer patients with FN.

Procedures

A total of 64 patients with 224 episodes of FN were randomly assigned to receive antibiotic therapy with either CZOP (100 mg/kg/day) or CFPM (100 mg/kg/day). Of these episodes, 223 were considered eligible for the study. Success was defined as resolution of febrile episodes and clinical signs of infection within 120 hr following the start of antibiotic therapy.

Results

The success rate was not significantly different between the CZOP (64.0%) and CFPM (56.3%) groups (P = 0.275). Duration of fever, duration of antibiotic therapy, and the success rate in patients with blood stream infection did not differ between the two groups. There was no infection‐related mortality in the study period.

Conclusion

Both CZOP and CFPM as monotherapy appear to be effective and safe in pediatric patients. This study suggests that CZOP has satisfactory efficacy and is well tolerated as initial empirical therapy for pediatric cancer patients with FN. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1992–1995. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST): A SEER analysis of incidence across the age spectrum and therapeutic interventions in the pediatric population
Authors: Bates James E. , Peterson Carl R. , Dhakal Sughosh , Giampoli Ellen J. , Constine Louis S.
Published: August 2014

Background

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are very rare in the general population and challenging to treat. A paucity of data exists regarding the incidence of MPNST across all age groups and treatment outcomes in the pediatric population. We aimed to characterize both using the Survival, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Procedure

The SEER‐18 database with information on the United States population from 1973 to 2009 was queried for cases of MPNST. For incidence data, 1,182 cases were found among the general population. Of those, 165 cases were in individuals aged 0–19. After exclusions, 139 cases from the SEER‐18 database met study criteria for outcomes analysis. For each patient, variables including gender, age, race, stage (localized, regional, or distant), surgical treatment, and radiotherapy were obtained.

Results

The overall incidence of MPNST was 1.46 per million person‐years, with increased incidence among the elderly. In the pediatric population, the incidence was 0.56 per million person‐years, and was higher among post‐pubertal children aged 10–19. Median overall survival in the pediatric population was 30 months, with only localized disease and treatment with surgery being positive prognostic factors on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

MPNST is a rare disease and, among children, is most frequent seen in adolescents. Surgery is crucial as first‐line treatment for MPNST, especially if the tumor is localized at diagnosis. In patients with non‐localized MPNST, the disease remains extremely difficult to manage, and both surgery and radiotherapy are interventions that should be considered. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1955–1960. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surgical management of thymic epithelial tumors in children: Lessons from the French Society of pediatric oncology and review of the literature
Authors: Rod J. , Orbach D. , Verité C. , Coze C. , Stephan J.L. , Varlet F. , Thomas‐de‐Montpreville V. , Reguerre Y. , Besse B. , Sarnacki S.
Published: August 2014

Purpose

We report the results of a French multicenter retrospective study based on a period of more than 30 years and a review of the literature in order to more clearly define the surgical approach and specific pediatric risk factors.

Methods

Clinical data of children comprising all histologic subtypes of thymic epithelial tumors (TET) treated between 1979 and 2009 in French pediatric oncology centers were retrospectively analyzed and discussed in the light of a review of all pediatric cases reported in the literature.

Results

Nine cases were identified, corresponding to five females and four males with a median age of 13 years (range: 7.5–17). Histologic subtypes were type AB (n = 1), type B (n = 5) and type C (n = 3). Treatment consisted of tumor resection (4 R0, 4 R1, 1 R2) via right anterior thoracotomy, posterolateral thoracotomy, left thoracoscopy, sternotomy and cervicosternotomy, and/or chemotherapy, mainly cyclophosphamide‐doxorubicin‐cisplatin (CAP; n = 5), and/or radiotherapy (n = 4). Two patients with TET type C died. All other patients are alive with a median follow‐up of 4 years (range: 1.5–20). Review of a total of 93 pediatric cases reported in the literature showed statistically significant associations between less favorable histologic subtypes and male gender (P = 0.012), advanced Masaoka stage (P < 0.001) and quality of resection (P < 0.001) respectively.

Conclusions

A review of the literature and our series identified several risk factors to take into account in the therapeutically decision. Complete resection through a sternotomy is highly recommended. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1910–1915. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of SLCO1B1 521T > C variant on leucovorin rescue and risk of relapse in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated with high‐dose methotrexate
Authors: Zhang Hua‐Nian , He Xue‐Lian , Wang Cheng , Wang Yang , Chen Yu‐Jun , Li Jian‐Xin , Niu Chang‐He , Gao Ping
Published: August 2014

Background

Recent studies suggest that SLCO1B1 c.521T > C variant decreases the clearance of methotrexate (MTX) and elevates its plasma concentration, hence leucovorin doses may need to be adjusted. However, high leucovorin doses may affect the cure rate in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Hitherto neither the appropriate dose of leucovorin in carriers of SLCO1B1 c.521T > C variant nor the impact of SLCO1B1 polymorphism on the risk of ALL relapse has been clarified.

Procedure

A double‐blind and controlled study was conducted in 136 children with ALL. They were genotyped for rs4149056 single nucleotide polymorphism into wild‐type group and variant group, and received MTX at 3–5 g/m2. Plasma concentration MTX and its metabolite were determined by HPLC. The toxicity of MTX, dose of leucovorin and 5‐year relapse rate of ALL were recorded.

Results

Compared with wild‐type group, area under the concentration time curve of MTX increased by 4.2‐fold and peripheral clearance rate decreased significantly in variant group. Patients carrying rs4149056 C allele endured a remarkable longer time above the MTX safety threshold and suffered from a higher frequency of toxicity, so 2.2‐fold leucovorin was given. However, no association was found between SLCO1B1 c.521T > C variant and the relapse risk in five years.

Conclusions

The SLCO1B1 c.521T > C variant was an important determinant of MTX disposition and their carriers were exposed to increased intensity and time of MTX. An appropriate leucovorin dose raise in variant group was beneficial to reducing the serious toxicity. The c.521T > C variant wasn't associated with the risk of ALL relapse. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:2203–2207. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Revisiting thiol‐yne chemistry: Selective and efficient monoaddition for block and graft copolymer formation
Authors: Sprafke Johannes K. , Spruell Jason M. , Mattson Kaila M. , Montarnal Damien , McGrath Alaina J. , Pötzsch Robert , Miyajima Daigo , Hu Jerry , Latimer Allegra A. , Voit Brigitte I. , Aida Takuzo , Hawker Craig J.
Published: August 2014

The untapped potential of radical thiol‐yne mono‐addition chemistry is exploited to overcome the known limitations of thiol‐ene chemistry in polymer coupling and block copolymer formation. By careful choice of alkyne, the reaction can selectively lead to the mono‐addition product with efficiencies surpassing those achieved by traditional thiol‐ene chemistry. This improvement is illustrated by the nearly quantitative synthesis of a variety of diblock and graft copolymers. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 319–326
Chiral sensing of Eu(III)‐containing achiral polymer complex from chiral amino acids coordination induction
Authors: Dai Chunhui , Wang Yuxiang , Quan Yiwu , Chen Qingmin , Cheng Yixiang , Zhu Chengjian
Published: August 2014

The β‐diketonate‐based achiral polymer P‐1 could be synthesized by the polymerization of 3,7‐dibromo‐2,8‐dimethoxy‐5,5‐dioctyl‐5H‐dibenzo[b,d]silole (M1) with (Z)−1,3‐bis(4‐ethynylphenyl)−3‐hydroxyprop‐en‐1‐one (M2) via typical Sonogashira coupling reaction. The β‐diketonate unit in the main chain backbone of P‐1 can further coordinate with Eu(TTA)x [TTA− = 4,4,4‐trifluoro‐1‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)butane‐1,3‐dionate anion, X = 1, 2, 3] to afford corresponding Eu(III)‐containing polymer complexes. The resulting achiral polymer complex P‐2 (X = 2) can exhibit strong circular dichroism (CD) response toward both N‐Boc‐l and d‐proline enantiomers. The CD signal was preliminarily attributed to coordination induction between chiral N‐Boc‐proline and the Eu(III) complex moiety. The linear regression analysis of CD sensing shows a good agreement between the magnitude of molar ellipticity and concentration of chiral N‐Boc‐l or d‐proline, which indicates this kind Eu(III)‐containing achiral polymer complex can be used as a chiral probe for enantioselective recognition of N‐Boc‐l or d‐proline enantiomers based on Cotton effect of CD spectra. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 3080–3086
Randomized controlled pilot study of mindfulness‐based stress reduction for persistently fatigued cancer survivors
Authors: Johns Shelley A. , Brown Linda F. , Beck‐Coon Kathleen , Monahan Patrick O. , Tong Yan , Kroenke Kurt
Published: August 2014

Objective

Cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most common, persistent, and disabling symptoms associated with cancer and its treatment. Evidence‐based treatments that are acceptable to patients are critically needed. This study examined the efficacy of mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) for CRF and related symptoms.

Method

A sample of 35 cancer survivors with clinically significant CRF was randomly assigned to a 7‐week MBSR‐based intervention or wait‐list control group. The intervention group received training in mindfulness meditation, yoga, and self‐regulatory responses to stress. Fatigue interference (primary outcome) and a variety of secondary outcomes (e.g., fatigue severity, vitality, disability, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance) were assessed at baseline, post‐intervention, and 1‐month follow‐up. Bonferroni correction was employed to account for multiple comparisons. Controls received the intervention after the 1‐month follow‐up. Participants in both groups were followed for 6 months after completing their respective MBSR courses to assess maintenance of effects.

Results

Compared to controls, the MBSR group reported large post‐intervention reductions as assessed by effect sizes (d) in the primary outcome, fatigue interference (d = −1.43, p < 0.001), along with fatigue severity (d = −1.55, p < 0.001), vitality (d = 1.29, p < 0.001), depression (d = −1.30, p < 0.001), and sleep disturbance (d = −0.74, p = 0.001). Results were maintained or strengthened at 1‐month follow‐up, the point at which significant improvements in disability (d = −1.22, p < 0.002) and anxiety (d = −0.98, p = 0.002) occurred. Improvements in all outcomes were maintained 6 months after completing the course. MBSR adherence was high, with 90% attendance across groups and high rates of participant‐reported home practice of mindfulness.

Conclusions

Mindfulness‐based stress reduction is a promising treatment for CRF and associated symptoms. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitric Oxide Generation with an Air Operated Non‐Thermal Plasma Jet and Associated Microbial Inactivation Mechanisms
Authors: Hao Xiaolong , Mattson Amber M. , Edelblute Chelsea M. , Malik Muhammad A. , Heller Loree C. , Kolb Juergen F.
Published: August 2014

Chemical species that are generated by a plasma jet in a microhollow cathode discharge geometry when operated with air and a dc voltage were investigated. Nitric oxide (NO) is found as the dominant long‐lived reaction product with concentrations of several hundreds of ppm. In comparison, the concentrations observed for nitric dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) are negligible. The concentrations of NO are increasing with increasing electric power but decreasing with increasing flow rates. Simultaneously, NO2 concentrations are increasing slightly. The results suggest that the observed far reaching biocidal effect of the plasma jet depends on the generation of nitric oxide.
Inactivation of the Tomato Pathogen Cladosporium fulvum by an Atmospheric‐Pressure Cold Plasma Jet
Authors: Lu Qianqian , Liu Dongping , Song Ying , Zhou Renwu , Niu Jinhai
Published: August 2014

Plant diseases resulting from plant pathogens are profoundly affecting crops worldwide. In this study, the tomato pathogen Cladosporium fulvum (C. fulvum) have been inactivated by using the atmospheric‐pressure plasma jet (APPJ). The results show that the inactivation efficiencies of C. fulvum are dependent on the plasma density and treatment time. The APPJ with a relatively high plasma density can completely kill the resistant C. fulvum within the treatment time of 60 s. Due to plasma generating electrostatic force, the outer membrane of C. fulvum is disrupted and the cytoplasm is released to the surrounding medium. Both protein and DNA molecules can be destroyed during the plasma inactivation. Meanwhile, the APPJ can also provide a novel approach to decrease the rotting rates of C. fulvum‐infected tomato seeds.
One‐electron redox properties of DNA nucleobases and common tautomers
Authors: Lewis Kristen , Copeland Kari , Hill Glake
Published: August 2014

The redox properties of DNA play an influential role in several important processes such as DNA mutation and the interaction of DNA with drugs. Structural changes in DNA nucleobases from its canonical form to its tautomeric forms can alter these properties and may lead to DNA mutation due to altered base‐pairing properties. Experimental results for the standard value of DNA redox properties vary due to choice of methodology and solvent. Theoretical determination of these properties is helpful in pinpointing standard values but still vary depending on methodology and chosen experimental benchmark. However, it is of importance to identify the overall trend of electron mobility within DNA while providing reliable standard values for redox reactions. In this work, we present the results of theoretical calculations for redox properties. Using the thermodynamic cycle, we can approximate reliable values. We report the electron affinities, ionization potentials, and redox potential for the canonical DNA nucleobases and their rare tautomers. For each of these properties, we evaluate its overall trend to gain a greater understanding of the role that electron attachment and electron mobility have within the DNA strand. All calculations are computed at the M06‐2X/6–31++G(d,p) level of theory. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association Between Sexual Health and Delivery Mode
Authors: Song Mihyon , Ishii Hiroshi , Toda Masahiro , Tomimatsu Takuji , Katsuyama Hironobu , Nakamura Takafumi , Nakai Yuichiro , Shimoya Koichiro
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Female sexual function changes considerably during pregnancy and the postpartum period. In addition, women's physical and mental health, endocrine secretion, and internal and external genitalia vary during these times. However, there are limited studies on the relationship between delivery and sexual function.

Aim

The present study aimed to demonstrate the association between sexual function and delivery mode.

Methods

Mothers who delivered a single baby at term were recruited for the study, and 435 mothers were analyzed.

Main Outcome Measures

The Female Sexual Function Questionnaire (SFQ28) scores and mothers' backgrounds were assessed at 6 months after delivery.

Results

The delivery mode affected the SFQ28 partner domain. Episiotomy affected the arousal (sensation) domain. Multiple regression analysis revealed that maternal age and cesarean section were significantly associated with several SHQ28 domains.

Conclusion

This study suggests that routine episiotomies at delivery should be avoided to improve postpartum maternal sexual function. Maternal age and cesarean section were found to affect postpartum sexual health.
Effect of antiaging agents on the outdoor natural weathering of bamboo powder/polypropylene foamed composites
Authors: Zhou Xiaxing , Huang Shusheng , Chen Lihui
Published: August 2014

The effect of outdoor natural weathering on the properties of injection molded 33 wt% bamboo powder (BP)/polypropylene (PP) foamed composites with and without the antioxidant and hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) were investigated. The composites containing the antiaging agents had higher color stability, slightly greater retentions of flexural modulus, tensile and notched impact strengths, higher creep resistance, and better rheological stability than the reference composite. The antiaging agents of pentaerythritol tetrakis(3‐(3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐hydroxyphenyl)propionate) and poly‐(n‐hydroxyethyl‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐4‐hydroxy‐piperidyl succinate) had more beneficial effect than n‐octadecyl‐β‐(4‐hydroxy‐3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐phenyl)‐propionate and bis(2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐4‐piperidinyl)sebacate. After 12 months of exposure, △E* decreased from 22.8 of the reference composite to 9.9 of the composite with the antiaging agents. Rheological behavior results indicated that the storage modulus, complex viscosity, and non‐Newtonian fluid index of composites containing the antiaging agents were slightly increased. Natural weathering caused less decreases in the storage and loss moduli, crossover modulus, relaxation time, and average molecular weight for composites containing the antiaging agents than those for the reference composite. Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) observation confirmed the improved surface durability for composites containing the antiaging agents. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 22:311–319, 2016. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Physical layer orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing acquisition and timing synchronization security
Authors: La Pan Matthew J. , Clancy T. Charles , McGwier Robert W.
Published: August 2014

Orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing (OFDM) has become the manifest modulation choice for 4G standards. Timing acquisition and carrier frequency offset synchronization are prerequisite to OFDM demodulation and must be performed often. Most of the OFDM methods for synchronization were not designed with security in mind. In particular, we analyze the performance of a maximum likelihood synchronization estimator against highly correlated jamming attacks. We present a series of attacks against OFDM timing acquisition: preamble whitening, the false preamble attack, preamble warping, and preamble nulling.The performance of OFDM synchronization turns out to be very poor against these attacks, and a number of mitigation strategies and security improvements are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application and validation of incrementally complex models for wind turbine aerodynamics, isolated wind turbine in uniform inflow conditions
Authors: Gundling Chris , Sitaraman Jay , Roget Beatrice , Masarati Pierangelo
Published: August 2014

A comparison of several incrementally complex methods for predicting wind turbine performance, aeroelastic behavior, and wakes is provided. Depending on a wind farm's design, wake interference can cause large power losses and increased turbulence levels within the farm. The goal is to employ modeling methods to reach an improved understanding of wake effects and to use this information to better optimize the layout of new wind farms. A critical decision faced by modelers is the fidelity of the model that is selected to perform simulations. The choice of model fidelity can affect the accuracy, but will also greatly impact the computational time and resource requirements for simulations. To help address this critical question, three modeling methods of varying fidelity have been developed side by side and are compared in this article. The models from low to high complexity are as follows: a blade element‐based method with a free‐vortex wake, an actuator disc‐based method, and a full rotor‐based method. Fluid/structure interfaces are developed for the aerodynamic modeling approaches that allow modeling of discrete blades and are then coupled with a multibody structural dynamics solver in order to perform an aeroelastic analysis. Similar methods have individually been tested by researchers, but we suggest that by developing a suite of models, they can be cross‐compared to grasp the subtleties of each method. The modeling methods are applied to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory Phase VI rotor to predict the turbine aerodynamic and structural loads and then also the wind velocities in the wake. The full rotor method provides the most accurate predictions at the turbine and the use of adaptive mesh refinement to capture the wake to 20 radii downstream is proven particularly successful. Though the full rotor method is unmatched by the lower fidelity methods in stalled conditions and detailed prediction of the downstream wake, there are other less complex conditions where these methods perform as accurately as the full rotor method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.