bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partitioning of herbivore hosts across time and food plants promotes diversification in the Megastigmus dorsalis oak gall parasitoid complex
Authors: Nicholls James A. , Schönrogge Karsten , Preuss Sonja , Stone Graham N.
Published: December 2017

Communities of insect herbivores and their natural enemies are rich and ecologically crucial components of terrestrial biodiversity. Understanding the processes that promote their origin and maintenance is thus of considerable interest. One major proposed mechanism is ecological speciation through host‐associated differentiation (HAD), the divergence of a polyphagous species first into ecological host races and eventually into more specialized daughter species. The rich chalcid parasitoid communities attacking cynipid oak gall wasp hosts are structured by multiple host traits, including food plant taxon, host gall phenology, and gall structure. Here, we ask whether the same traits structure genetic diversity within supposedly generalist parasitoid morphospecies. We use mitochondrial DNA sequences and microsatellite genotypes to quantify HAD for Megastigmus (Bootanomyia) dorsalis, a complex of two apparently generalist cryptic parasitoid species attacking oak galls. Ancient Balkan refugial populations showed phenological separation between the cryptic species, one primarily attacking spring galls, and the other mainly attacking autumn galls. The spring species also contained host races specializing on galls developing on different host‐plant lineages (sections Cerris vs. Quercus) within the oak genus Quercus. These results indicate more significant host‐associated structuring within oak gall parasitoid communities than previously thought and support ecological theory predicting the evolution of specialist lineages within generalist parasitoids. In contrast, UK populations of the autumn cryptic species associated with both native and recently invading oak gall wasps showed no evidence of population differentiation, implying rapid recruitment of native parasitoid populations onto invading hosts, and hence potential for natural biological control. This is of significance given recent rapid range expansion of the economically damaging chestnut gall wasp, Dryocosmus kuriphilus, in Europe.
Evaluating behavioral responses of nesting lesser snow geese to unmanned aircraft surveys
Authors: Barnas Andrew , Newman Robert , Felege Christopher J. , Corcoran Michael P. , Hervey Samuel D. , Stechmann Tanner J. , Rockwell Robert F. , Ellis‐Felege Susan N.
Published: December 2017

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are relatively new technologies gaining popularity among wildlife biologists. As with any new tool in wildlife science, operating protocols must be developed through rigorous protocol testing. Few studies have been conducted that quantify the impacts UAS may have on unhabituated individuals in the wild using standard aerial survey protocols. We evaluated impacts of unmanned surveys by measuring UAS‐induced behavioral responses during the nesting phase of lesser snow geese (Anser caerulescens caerulescens) in Wapusk National Park, Manitoba, Canada. We conducted surveys with a fixed‐wing Trimble UX5 and monitored behavioral changes via discreet surveillance cameras at 25 nests. Days with UAS surveys resulted in decreased resting and increased nest maintenance, low scanning, high scanning, head‐cocking and off‐nest behaviors when compared to days without UAS surveys. In the group of birds flown over, head‐cocking for overhead vigilance was rarely seen prior to launch or after landing (mean estimates 0.03% and 0.02%, respectively) but increased to 0.56% of the time when the aircraft was flying overhead suggesting that birds were able to detect the aircraft during flight. Neither UAS survey altitude nor launch distance alone in this study was strong predictors of nesting behaviors, although our flight altitudes (≥75 m above ground level) were much higher than previously published behavioral studies. Synthesis and applications: The diversity of UAS models makes generalizations on behavioral impacts difficult, and we caution that researchers should design UAS studies with knowledge that some minimal disturbance is likely to occur. We recommend flight designs take potential behavioral impacts into account by increasing survey altitude where data quality requirements permit. Such flight designs should consider a priori knowledge of focal species’ behavioral characteristics. Research is needed to determine whether any such disturbance is a result of visual or auditory stimuli.
Platelet activation is a preoperative risk factor for the development of thromboembolic complications in patients with continuous‐flow left ventricular assist device
Authors: Consolo Filippo , Sferrazza Giulia , Motolone Giulia , Contri Rachele , Valerio Lorenzo , Lembo Rosalba , Pozzi Loris , Della Valle Patrizia , De Bonis Michele , Zangrillo Alberto , Fiore Gianfranco B. , Redaelli Alberto , Slepian Marvin J. , Pappalardo Federico
Published: December 2017

Aims

To correlate the dynamics of platelet activation with the development of thromboembolic events in patients with continuous‐flow left ventricular assist device (cf‐LVAD).

Methods and results

The platelet activity state (PAS) assay was utilized to evaluate platelet activation in 68 cf‐LVAD patients implanted with the HeartMate II (n = 15, 22%), HeartMate 3 (n = 15, 22%), or HeartWare HVAD (n = 38, 56%). PAS was measured preoperatively, early post‐implant, and at long‐term follow‐up (1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months post‐implant). PAS was also measured at the occurrence of adverse events in patients who developed thrombotic complications. Data on patient demographics, medical history, antithrombotic therapy, and coagulation parameters were also analysed. Over a median follow‐up of 602 (234–942) days, PAS values did not increase over time in the overall population (P = 0.15). However, PAS measured at event was 15‐fold higher in the six patients (9%) who suffered pump thrombosis (n = 2) or ischaemic stroke (n = 4) vs. the rest of the population [6.67% (5.59%–11.98%) vs. 0.45% (0.33%–0.75%); P = 0.012], despite comparable coagulation profile. Pre‐implant PAS values were 4.5‐fold higher in these patients [1.90% (1.24%–3.17%) vs. 0.42% (0.32%–0.72%); P = 0.006]. Neither preoperative variables nor the type of the pump or the antiplatelet strategy were associated with a higher risk of complications.

Conclusions

Thrombotic events are associated with altered PAS values. Moreover, baseline elevated PAS values in patients who developed thrombotic events suggest patient‐specific tendency to post‐implant thromboembolic complications. Prospectively, systematic monitoring of PAS might guide the development of refined patient‐tailored antithrombotic strategies and the technological improvement of LVAD design.
Seismic response of a wobbling 3D frame
Authors: Vassiliou Michalis F.
Published: December 2017

This paper investigates the 3D response of a slab supported by wobbling columns. The columns are not allowed neither to slide nor to roll out of their initial position. An analytical model is proposed, the equations of motion are derived, and they are solved numerically. The paper concludes that the addition of the slab makes the columns more stable. In fact, the system is almost equivalent to the response of a solitary column with the same aspect ratio yet larger size. However, it is also shown that the system is less stable than its planar counterpart and that planar analysis can only qualitatively describe the behavior of 3D structures. A case study shows that the concept could be used as a seismic isolation technique for bridges. However, more research need to be performed on defining proper intensity measures for uplifting structures, as it is shown that there is large record‐to‐record variability, even when intensity measures developed for rocking structures are used.
An improved immersed boundary‐lattice Boltzmann method based on force correction technique
Authors: Cai Yunan , Li Sheng , Lu Jianhua
Published: December 2017

In this paper, an improved immersed boundary‐lattice Boltzmann method based on the force correction technique is presented for fluid‐structure interaction problems including the moving boundary interfaces. By introducing a force correction coefficient, the non‐slip boundary conditions are much better enforced compared with the conventional immersed boundary‐lattice Boltzmann methods. In addition, the implicit and iterative calculations are avoided; thus, the computational cost is reduced dramatically. Several numerical experiments are carried out to test the efficiency of the method. It is found that the method has the second‐order accuracy, and the non‐slip boundary conditions are enforced indeed. The numerical results also show that the present method is a suitable tool for fluid‐structure interaction problems involving complex moving boundaries.
Development and clinical validation of a circulating tumor DNA test for the identification of clinically actionable mutations in nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Liu Liping , Liu Han , Shao Di , Liu Zu , Wang Jingjing , Deng Qiuhua , Tang Hailing , Yang Haihong , Zhang Yalei , Qiu Yuan , Cui Fei , Tan Meihua , Zhang Pan , Li Zhilong , Liu Jilong , Liang Wenhua , Wang Yuying , Peng Zhiyu , Wang Jian , Yang Huanming , Mao Mao , Kristiansen Karsten , Ye Mingzhi , He Jianxing
Published: December 2017

Molecular analysis of potentially actionable mutations has become routine practice in oncological pathology. However, testing a wide range of oncogenes and mutations can be technically challenging because of limitations associated with tumor biopsy. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is a potential tool for the noninvasive profiling of tumors. In this study, we developed a next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based test for the detection of clinically relevant mutations in ctDNA and evaluated the feasibility of using this ctDNA NGS‐based assay as an alternative to tissue genotyping. Tissue and matched blood samples were obtained from 72 patients with advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NGS‐based testing was performed using plasma cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) samples of all 72 patients as well as tumor DNA samples of 46 patients. Of the remaining 26 patients, tDNA was tested by amplification refractory mutation system PCR (ARMS‐PCR) because of insufficient tissue sample or quality for NGS. Of the 46 patients who had tDNA and cfDNA NGS performed, we found 20 patients were concordant between tDNA and ctDNA alterations and 21 sample pairs were discordant because of additional alterations found in tDNA. Considering all clinically relevant alterations, the concordance rate between tDNA and ctDNA alterations was 54.9% with a sensitivity of 53.2% and a specificity of 75.0%. Our findings demonstrate that targeted NGS using cfDNA is a feasible approach for rapid and accurate identification of actionable mutations in patients with advanced NSCLC, and may provide a safe and robust alternative approach to tissue biopsy.
Estimating a cost‐effectiveness threshold for the Spanish NHS
Authors: Vallejo‐Torres Laura , García‐Lorenzo Borja , Serrano‐Aguilar Pedro
Published: December 2017

The cost of generating a quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) within a National Health Service provides an approximation of the average opportunity cost of funding decisions. This information can be used to inform a cost‐effectiveness threshold. The aim of this paper is to estimate the cost per QALY at the Spanish National Health Service. We exploit variation across 17 regional health services and the exogenous changes in expenditure that took place as a consequence of the economic crisis over 5 years of data. We conduct fixed effect models and use an instrumental variable approach to test for potential remaining endogeneity. Our results show that health expenditure has a positive and significant effect on population health, with an average spending elasticity of 0.07. This translates into a cost per QALY of between 22,000€ and 25,000€. These values are below the cost‐effectiveness threshold figure of 30,000€ commonly cited in Spain.
Quantitative fecal immunochemical tests for colorectal cancer screening
Authors: Gies Anton , Bhardwaj Megha , Stock Christian , Schrotz‐King Petra , Brenner Hermann
Published: December 2017

Fecal immunochemical tests (FITs) for hemoglobin (Hb) are increasingly used for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. We aimed to review, summarize and compare reported diagnostic performance of various FITs. PubMed and Web of Science were searched from inception to July 24, 2017. Data on diagnostic performance of quantitative FITs, conducted in colonoscopy‐controlled average‐risk screening populations, were extracted. Summary receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted and correlations between thresholds, positivity rates (PRs), sensitivities and specificities were assessed. Seven test brands were investigated across 22 studies. Although reported sensitivities for CRC, advanced adenoma (AA) and any advanced neoplasm (AN) varied widely (ranges: 25–100%, 6–44% and 9–60%, respectively), with specificities for AN ranging from 82% to 99%, the estimates were very close to the respective summary ROC curves whose areas under the curve (95% CI) were 0.905 (0.88–0.94), 0.683 (0.67–0.70) and 0.710 (0.70–0.72) for CRC, AA and AN, respectively. The seemingly large heterogeneity essentially reflected variations in test thresholds (range: 2–82 µg Hb/g feces) and showed moderate correlations with sensitivity (r = −0.49) and specificity (r = 0.60) for AN. By contrast, observed PRs (range: 1–21%) almost perfectly correlated with sensitivity (r = 0.84) and specificity (r = −0.94) for AN. The apparent large heterogeneity in diagnostic performance between various FITs can be almost completely overcome by appropriate threshold adjustments. Instead of simply applying the threshold recommended by the manufacturer, screening programs should adjust the threshold to yield a desired PR which is a very good proxy indicator for the specificity and the subsequent colonoscopy workload.
MANAGEMENT OF THE DESIGN PROCESS: HUMAN RESOURCE ALLOCATION IN FACTORIES OF THE FUTURE
Authors: Jin Guangying , Sperandio Séverine , Girard Philippe
Published: December 2017

Currently, many new challenges, such as multiplication of data and information, mass customization, global cooperation, and scarcity of resources, shape the relationships among different actors. Therefore, when managers have several projects to schedule, human resources allocation becomes much more complex to grasp. The work in this paper is to propose a human resources allocation methodology in design process to cope with the adaption of the Product‐Process‐Organization (P‐P‐O) model for the factory of the future. According to the new concept in the Industry 4.0, future human resource organization structure will be the horizontal and point‐to‐point structures. Therefore, this paper discusses the related concepts regarding human resource horizontal ability and project urgency level.
COMPLEX SYSTEM TACIT KNOWLEDGE EXTRACTION THROUGH A FORMAL METHOD
Authors: Wajnberg Mickael , Lezoche Mario , Massé Blondin Alexandre , Valtchev Petko , Panetto Hervé
Published: December 2017

A complex system integrates multiple sub‐systems and contains both knowledge in each sub‐system and in their connections. This paper aims to present the relational concept analysis as a method to extract “connection” knowledge as much as the sub‐system contained knowledge. A use case from neurology to validate the approach is introduced. A brain is a system that can be studied through different clinical examinations, therefore each clinical examination can be considered as a sub‐system.
THE FIRST ROBAFIS‐ROBSE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT COMPETITION IN SYSTEMS ENGINEERING
Authors: Tucoulou Jean‐Claude , Bonjour Eric , Gouyon David
Published: December 2017

Since 2006, AFIS, the French Chapter of INCOSE, organizes a systems engineering student challenge every year called RobAFIS. In 2016, GfSE, the German Chapter of INCOSE, joined AFIS in the RobSE challenge. Both chapters organized a first common international systems engineering student challenge this year. For this challenge, French and German teams have competed with a same requirement document, applicable to a space exploration robot called Explorer II. Its global mission was to put waypoints (identification marks) on different points of a planet's surface considered as dangerous to allow vehicles of future missions to move securely. A final meeting occured in Pforzeim, Germany in March, 2017.
Websites to Explore Race as a Social Construct
Authors: Demoiny Sara B.
Published: December 2017

This forum highlights and evaluates apps, computer programs, and websites that teachers, students, and other interested parties can use to explore, research, and engage in content learning and literacy practices.
Digital Engineering Design Team Journals: Providing Multimodal Opportunities for English Learners to Explain Design Choices
Authors: Shanahan Lynn E. , Silvestri Katarina N. , McVee Mary B.
Published: December 2017

This department column explores digital and disciplinary literacies across learning contexts and disciplines within and outside of school. Digital enhancements will encourage readers to post questions, comments, and connections.
Listening, Literature, and the Sound of Text
Authors: Garcia Antero
Published: December 2017

This forum reviews high‐interest young adult literature and adult texts. Exploring both print‐based and multimodal works, this column considers all kinds of texts that are encountered by contemporary readers, considering how the texts challenge and are challenged by readers.
Critical Internet Literacy: What Is It, and How Should We Teach It?
Authors: Harrison Colin
Published: December 2017

This department column is a venue for thoughtful discussions of contemporary issues dealing with policy and practice, remixed in ways that generate new insights into enduring dilemmas, debates, and controversies.
Investigation on the interaction of catalase with sodium lauryl sulfonate and the underlying mechanisms
Authors: Wang Jing , Jia Rui , Wang Jiaxi , Sun Zhiqiang , Wu Zitao , Liu Rutao , Zong Wansong
Published: December 2017

As a classic type of anionic surfactants, sodium lauryl sulfonate (SLS) might change the structure and function of antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) through their direct interactions. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is still unknown. This study investigated the direct interaction of SLS with CAT molecule and the underlying mechanisms using multi‐spectroscopic methods, isothermal titration calorimetry, and molecular docking studies. No obvious effects were observed on CAT structure and activity under low SLS concentration exposure. The particle size of CAT molecule decreased and CAT activity was slightly inhibited under high SLS concentration exposure. SLS prefers to bind to the interface of CAT mainly via van der Waals’ forces and hydrogen bonds. Subsequently, SLS interacts with the amino acid residues around the heme groups of CAT via hydrophobic interactions and might inhibit CAT activity.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐335‐5p suppresses lower extremity deep venous thrombosis by targeted inhibition of PAI‐1 via the TLR4 signalingpathway
Authors: Bao Cui‐Xia , Zhang Dong‐Xia , Wang Na‐Na , Zhu Xiang‐Kui , Zhao Qi , Sun Xiao‐Lei
Published: December 2017

This study aims to investigate the effects of microRNA‐335‐5p (miR‐335‐5p) on lower‐extremity deep vein thrombosis (LEDVT) by targeting PAI‐1 through the TLR4 signaling pathway in rat models. siRNA, mimic, and inhibitor were used for transfection. The miR‐335‐5p expression was detected by in situ hybridization. CCK‐8 assay and flow cytometry were adopted to detect proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis, respectively. Scratch test and Matrigel‐based tube formation assay were used to detect the effect of miR‐335‐5p on cell migration ability and tube formation ability. A miR‐335‐5p lentivirus plasmid was constructed and injected into LEDVT rats. The length and weight of thrombus were measured, changes of thrombus recanalization were observed by CD34 immunohistochemistry, and levels of PAI‐1 and inflammatory factors in femoral vein blood were detected by ELISA. LEDVT rats showed a higher AOD value of PAI‐1, higher expression of PAI‐1, NF‐κB, Rac1, IL‐1β, and TLR4 and a lower miR‐335‐5p expression. PAI‐1 and miR‐335‐5p were negatively correlated. Compared to the blank and siRNA‐NC groups, the miR‐335‐5p mimic and siRNA‐PAI‐1 groups showed declined expression of PAI‐1, TLR4, NF‐κB, Rac1, and IL‐1β, increased proliferation and tube formation abilities, less cells in G0/G1 phase, and decreased apoptosis, decreased length and weight of thrombus, organized thrombus, increased new blood vessels, and decreased levels of PAI‐1, IL‐1, IL‐6, and Tnf‐a. miR‐335‐5p may suppress the occurrence and development of LEDVT in rats by repressing the activation of the TLR4 signaling pathway by targeted inhibition of PAI‐1.
Improved segmental myocardial strain reproducibility using deformable registration algorithms compared with feature tracking cardiac MRI and speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Wang Jie , Li Weihao , Sun Jiayu , Liu Hong , Kang Yu , Yang Dan , Yu Liuyu , Greiser Andreas , Zhou Xiaoyue , Han Yuchi , Chen Yucheng
Published: December 2017

Background

Segmental myocardial strain using feature tracking (FT) cardiac MRI is not acceptable due to poor reproducibility.

Purpose

To assess the reproducibility of left ventricle (LV) segmental myocardial strain measured by deformation registration algorithm (DRA).

Study Type

Prospective clinical trial.

Subjects

Sixteen healthy volunteers and 28 hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients.

Field Strength/Sequence

Retrospective ECG gating cardiac MRI imaging was performed at 3.0T with a steady‐state free precession (SSFP) sequence.

Assessment

LV global and segmental myocardial strains were analyzed by DRA, FT, and speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) by two experienced observers and the reproducibility of global and segmental strains were compared.

Statistical Tests

Reproducibility was tested by coefficient of variation (COV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Receiver operator curves as well as comparison of areas under the curve (AUC) were analyzed.

Results

DRA showed the best observer agreement on segmental strain evaluated by ICC, LS (longitudinal strain): intraobserver variability range (0.98,1.00), interobserver variability range (0.83,0.92), CS (circumferential strain): intraobserver variability range (0.90,0.99), interobserver variability range (0.80,0.97), RS (radial strain): intraobserver variability range (0.84,0.99), interobserver variability range (0.85,0.99). Segmental LS, CS, and RS agreements evaluated by COV for FT and STE were poor. LV global myocardial strain of HCM was significantly lower than controls for all applied techniques, but global CS by DRA had better accuracy compared to FT or STE for distinguishing HCM from healthy subjects: AUC 0.880 (DRA) vs. 0.577 (FT) or 0.736 (STE), P < 0.05.

Data Conclusions

DRA is a reliable and robust analysis tool for segmental myocardial strain. Global CS by DRA allows discrimination between HCM and normal controls with better accuracy compared with FT and STE.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2018;48:404–414.
Direct determination of trace phthalate esters in alcoholic spirits by spray‐inlet microwave plasma torch ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Miao Meng , Zhao Gaosheng , Xu Li , Dong Junguo , Cheng Ping
Published: December 2017

A direct analytical method based on spray‐inlet microwave plasma torch tandem mass spectrometry was applied to simultaneously determine 4 phthalate esters (PAEs), namely, benzyl butyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, dipentyl phthalate, and dodecyl phthalate with extremely high sensitivity in spirits without sample treatment. Among the 4 brands of spirit products, 3 kinds of PAE compounds were directly determined at very low concentrations from 1.30 to 114 ng·g−1. Compared with other online and off‐line methods, the spray‐inlet microwave plasma torch tandem mass spectrometry technique is extremely simple, rapid, sensitive, and high efficient, providing an ideal screening tool for PAEs in spirits.
Possible involvement of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 in Ca2+ signaling via T‐type Ca2+ channel in mouse sensory neurons
Authors: Nishizawa Yuki , Takahashi Kenji , Oguma Naoko , Tominaga Makoto , Ohta Toshio
Published: December 2017

T‐type Ca2+ channels and TRPA1 are expressed in sensory neurons and both are associated with pain transmission, but their functional interaction is unclear. Here we demonstrate that pharmacological evidence of the functional relation between T‐type Ca2+ channels and TRPA1 in mouse sensory neurons. Low concentration of KCl at 15 mM (15K) evoked increases of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), which were suppressed by selective T‐type Ca2+ channel blockers. RT‐PCR showed that mouse sensory neurons expressed all subtypes of T‐type Ca2+ channel. The magnitude of 15K‐induced [Ca2+]i increase was significantly larger in neurons sensitive to allylisothiocyanate (AITC, a TRPA1 agonist) than in those insensitive to it, and in TRPA1−/− mouse sensory neurons. TRPA1 blockers diminished the [Ca2+]i responses to 15K in neurons sensitive to AITC, but failed to inhibit 40 mM KCl‐induced [Ca2+]i increases even in AITC‐sensitive neurons. TRPV1 blockers did not inhibit the 15K‐induced [Ca2+]i increase regardless of the sensitivity to capsaicin. [Ca2+]i responses to TRPA1 agonist were enhanced by co‐application with 15K. These pharmacological data suggest the possibility of functional interaction between T‐type Ca2+ channels and TRPA1 in sensory neurons. Since TRPA1 channel is activated by intracellular Ca2+, we hypothesize that Ca2+ entered via T‐type Ca2+ channel activation may further stimulate TRPA1, resulting in an enhancement of nociceptive signaling. Thus, T‐type Ca2+ channel may be a potential target for TRPA1‐related pain.
Graphene and related 2D materials: An overview of the Raman studies
Authors: Paillet Matthieu , Parret Romain , Sauvajol Jean‐Louis , Colomban Philippe
Published: December 2017

After a brief overview of the discovery and the Raman study of new forms of carbons (intercalated graphite, carbon fiber, fullerenes, carbon nanotubes), the invaluable contribution of late Professor M. Dresselhaus is noted, and the 10 reviews and 9 contributions collected to present a picture of the current Raman investigations of graphene and related 2D materials (such as black phosphorus, MoS2) are introduced. Methods for numbering the graphene layers, the effects of external perturbations (temperature, pressure, doping, and magnetic field) on the phonons of graphene, characterization of the chemical and structural properties of graphene at the nanoscale level by tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging, and applications combining graphene and Raman spectroscopy are addressed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of outcome and cost among open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgical treatments for rectal cancer: A propensity score matched analysis of nationwide inpatient sample data
Authors: Chen Szu‐Ta , Wu Meng‐Che , Hsu Tzu‐Chun , Yen Debra W. , Chang Chia‐Na , Hsu Wan‐Ting , Wang Chia‐Chun , Lee Matthew , Liu Shing‐Hwa , Lee Chien‐Chang ,   Health Economics and Outcome Research Group, National Taiwan University Hospital
Published: December 2017

Background

Population‐based studies evaluating outcomes of different approaches for rectal cancer are scarce.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database between 2008 and 2012. We compared the outcomes and costs among rectal cancer patients undergoing robotic, laparoscopic, or open surgeries using propensity scores for adjusted and matched analysis.

Results

We identified 194 957 rectal cancer patients. Over the 5‐year period, the annual admission number decreased by 13.9%, the in‐hospital mortality rate decreased by 32.2%, while the total hospitalization cost increased by 13.6%. Compared with laparoscopic surgery, robotic surgery had significantly lower length of stay (LOS) (OR 0.69, 95%CI 0.57‐0.84), comparable wound complications (OR 1.08, 95%CI 0.70‐1.65) and higher cost (OR 1.42, 95%CI 1.13‐1.79), while open surgery had significantly longer LOS (OR 1.38, 95%CI 1.19‐1.59), more wound complications (OR 1.49, 95%CI 1.08‐1.79), and comparable cost (OR 0.92, 95%CI 0.79‐1.07). There were no difference in in‐hospital mortality among three approaches.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic surgery was associated with better outcomes than open surgery. Robotic surgery was associated with higher cost, but no advantage over laparoscopic surgery in terms of mortality and complications. Studies on cost‐effectiveness of robotic surgery may be warranted.
Dispersion‐assisted quick and simultaneous extraction of 30 pesticides from alcoholic and non‐alcoholic drinks with the aid of experimental design
Authors: Jha Rakesh Roshan , Singh Nivedita , Kumari Rupender , Patel Devendra Kumar
Published: December 2017

The presence of pesticides in food items and beverages is a big threat to humankind, and their quantitative estimation with high precision and accuracy is always a challenge for analytical chemists. Hence, a simple and rapid method is proposed for the simultaneous determination of 30 pesticides in beverages (alcoholic and non‐alcoholic drinks). The proposed method hyphenated with triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometry has only 2 min chromatographic runtime for the analysis of all the pesticides. All the factors affecting the extraction yield have been optimized using an experimental design; and under optimized conditions, the developed method has been validated. The detection limits for all the pesticides were in the range of 0.001–0.348 μg/L with good linearity in the concentration range of 0.01–80.0 μg/L. The coefficient of determination was in the range of (R2) ≥ 0.977 to 0.999 for all the pesticides. The method was also checked for the precision of the relative standard deviation, which was below 4.75 (intra‐day) and 8.96% (inter‐day). The recovery of the method was 92–138%.
Hypothermic machine perfusion in liver transplantation
Authors: Quillin R. Cutler , Guarrera James V.
Published: December 2017

A finite supply of donor organs has led many transplant centers to accept marginal liver allografts with increasing frequency. These allografts may be at higher risk of primary nonfunction, early allograft dysfunction, and other recipient complications following liver transplantation. Machine perfusion preservation is an emerging technology that limits ischemia/reperfusion injury associated with preservation and may lead to improved outcomes following transplantation. Increased used of machine perfusion in liver preservation may permit an expansion of the donor pool. In this review, we examine the major clinical experience of hypothermic machine perfusion in human liver transplantation.Liver Transplantation 24 276–281 2018 AASLD.
Assessment of the depolarization of cathodically protected reinforced concrete
Authors: Atkins Chris P. , Wright David M. , Lambert Paul
Published: December 2017

Cathodic Protection of reinforced concrete is covered under BS EN ISO 12696. There are four criteria for protection stated in BS EN ISO 12696. They are based on gathering accurate instant off data between 0.1 and 1 s after switching off the power to the zone. Further interpretation is based on collecting data over time with the system switched off. These criteria are largely empirical in nature but have a proven track record. Collecting the instant off value with any degree of accuracy is critical to assessing the performance of a system in comparison to this standard. Unless the system has an adequate logging facility this is difficult to achieve. As systems age the logging becomes less reliable, and software and hardware updates mean accessing it can prove problematic. This article reviews depolarization data from 261 reference electrodes installed at three sites. The anode systems include conductive coating anode systems, mesh and overlay anode systems and discrete anode systems. The paper comments on the forms of curves obtained and the protection criteria. It suggests a simpler method of assessing decay curves that can be readily achieved using manual logging.
Investigating cross‐contamination by yeast strains from dental solid waste to waste‐handling workers by DNA sequencing
Authors: Vieira Cristina Dutra , Tagliaferri Thaysa Leite , de Carvalho Maria Auxiliadora Roque , de Resende‐Stoianoff Maria Aparecida , Holanda Rodrigo Assuncao , de Magalhães Thais Furtado Ferreira , Magalhães Paula Prazeres , dos Santos Simone Gonçalves , de Macêdo Farias Luiz
Published: December 2017

Trying to widen the discussion on the risks associated with dental waste, this study proposed to investigate and genetically compare yeast isolates recovered from dental solid waste and waste workers. Three samples were collected from workers' hands, nasal mucosa, and professional clothing (days 0, 30, and 180), and two from dental waste (days 0 and 180). Slide culture, microscopy, antifungal drug susceptibility, intersimple sequence repeat analysis, and amplification and sequencing of internal transcribed spacer regions were performed. Yeast strains were recovered from all waste workers' sites, including professional clothes, and from waste. Antifungal susceptibility testing demonstrated that some yeast recovered from employees and waste exhibited nonsusceptible profiles. The dendrogram demonstrated the presence of three major clusters based on similarity matrix and UPGMA grouping method. Two branches displayed 100% similarity: three strains of Candida guilliermondii isolated from different employees, working in opposite work shifts, and from diverse sites grouped in one part of branch 1 and cluster 3 that included two samples of Candida albicans recovered from waste and the hand of one waste worker. The results suggested the possibility of cross‐contamination from dental waste to waste workers and reinforce the need of training programs focused on better waste management routines.
Novel insights into the mechanism of SepL‐mediated control of effector secretion in enteropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Gaytán Meztlli O. , Monjarás Feria Julia , Soto Eduardo , Espinosa Norma , Benítez Julia M. , Georgellis Dimitris , González‐Pedrajo Bertha
Published: December 2017

Type three secretion systems (T3SSs) are virulence determinants employed by several pathogenic bacteria as molecular syringes to inject effector proteins into host cells. Diarrhea‐producing enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) uses a T3SS to colonize the intestinal tract. T3S is a highly coordinated process that ensures hierarchical delivery of three classes of substrates: early (inner rod and needle subunits), middle (translocators), and late (effectors). Translocation of effectors is triggered upon host‐cell contact in response to different environmental cues, such as calcium levels. The T3S substrate specificity switch from middle to late substrates in EPEC is regulated by the SepL and SepD proteins, which interact with each other and form a trimeric complex with the chaperone CesL. In this study, we investigated the link between calcium concentration and secretion regulation by the gatekeeper SepL. We found that calcium depletion promotes late substrate secretion in a translocon‐independent manner. Furthermore, the stability, formation, and subcellular localization of the SepL/SepD/CesL regulatory complex were not affected by the absence of calcium. In addition, we demonstrate that SepL interacts in a calcium‐independent manner with the major export gate component EscV, which in turn interacts with both middle and late secretion substrates, providing a docking site for T3S. These results suggest that EscV serves as a binding platform for both the SepL regulatory protein and secreted substrates during the ordered assembly of the T3SS.
Cybercrime and cloud computing. A game theoretic network model
Authors: Bartholomae Florian
Published: December 2017

In this paper, a network model is developed in which three players—a profit‐maximizing provider of cloud computing services, its consumers, and a hacker—sequentially choose their strategies. Several scenarios with different levels of data security and public prosecution of the hacker are analyzed. Especially for the case when no security measurements are available, a firm's strategy to limit the network size in order to render hacking unattractive is discussed in detail. Finally, policy implications are given implying better international cooperation of the law enforcement authorities.
Autonomic dysfunction in Parkinson's disease: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Merola Aristide , Romagnolo Alberto , Rosso Michela , Suri Ritika , Berndt Zoe , Maule Simona , Lopiano Leonardo , Espay Alberto J.
Published: December 2017

Background: Dysautonomia is a frequent and disabling complication of PD, with an estimated prevalence of 30‐40% and a significant impact on the quality of life.

Objectives: To evaluate the rate of progression of dysautonomia and, in particular, orthostatic hypotension, in a cohort of unselected PD patients, and assess the extent to which the progression of dysautonomia affects activities of daily living, health‐related quality of life, and health care utilization in PD.

Methods: We recruited 131 consecutive patients into a 12‐month, prospective, observational cohort study. Clinical measures included the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society/UPDRS, the Scale for Outcomes in Parkinson Disease‐Autonomic, the Orthostatic Hypotension Symptoms Assessment, and orthostatic blood pressure measurements. Health care utilization was quantified as the number of hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and outpatient clinic evaluations.

Results: The overall severity of autonomic symptoms, as measured by the the Orthostatic Hypotension Symptoms Assessment total score, worsened by 20% over 12 months (P < 0.001), with an overall increase in orthostatic hypotension prevalence from 31.1% to 46.7% (P < 0.001). Worsening of autonomic symptoms was independently associated with deterioration in daily living activities (P = 0.021) and health‐related quality of life (P = 0.025) adjusting for disease duration, cognitive impairment, and motor severity. Regardless of symptomatic status, orthostatic hypotension was associated with greater deterioration in daily living activities, health care utilization, and falls (P ≤ 0.009) compared to patients without orthostatic hypotension.

Conclusions: The severity of autonomic symptoms progressed by 20% over 1 year and was independently associated with impairments in daily living activities and health‐related quality of life. Symptomatic and asymptomatic orthostatic hypotension were both associated with increased prevalence of falls and health care utilization. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Potential cardiac risk of immune‐checkpoint blockade as anticancer treatment: What we know, what we do not know, and what we can do to prevent adverse effects
Authors: Spallarossa Paolo , Meliota Giovanni , Brunelli Claudio , Arboscello Eleonora , Ameri Pietro , Dessalvi Christian Cadeddu , Grossi Francesco , Deidda Martino , Mele Donato , Sarocchi Matteo , Bellodi Andrea , Madonna Rosalinda , Mercuro Giuseppe
Published: December 2017

Cancer immunotherapy has become a well‐established treatment option for some cancers after the development of a family of drugs targeting the so‐called immune checkpoints, such as CTLA4 and PD‐1 with PD‐L1. These co‐receptors/ligands inhibit the activation of T‐cell, thus preventing an excessive inflammatory response. Tumors exploit these pathways to induce immune tolerance to themselves. Thus, the main effect of checkpoint‐blocking drugs is to awake an immune response primarily directed against cancer cells. Nonetheless, as the immune response elicited by these drugs is not completely tumor‐specific, their use may actually cause several adverse effects, including adverse cardiovascular effects. In this review, we will discuss the principles and potentiality of immunotherapy for cancer treatment, the experimental and clinical data on the role of CTLA4 and PD‐1 with PD‐L1 as immune‐checkpoints in the cancer environment and in the cardiovascular system, and strategies aimed at preventing possible cardiovascular adverse effects of immune‐checkpoint blockers.
Bioavailable Blueberry‐Derived Phenolic Acids at Physiological Concentrations Enhance Nrf2‐Regulated Antioxidant Responses in Human Vascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Tang Jeffry S. , Vissers Margreet C. M. , Anderson Robert F. , Sreebhavan Sreevalsan , Bozonet Stephanie M. , Scheepens Arjan , Melton Laurence D.
Published: December 2017

Scope

Blueberry consumption is believed to confer a cardiovascular health advantage, but the active compounds and effects require characterization. This study aims to identify the polyphenol metabolites in plasma after blueberry juice intake and determine their bioactivity on endothelial cells.

Methods and results

Three healthy individuals are recruited to obtain profiles of bioavailable plasma polyphenol metabolites following intake of blueberry juice. Of 33 phenolic compounds screened, 12 aglycone phenolic acids are detected and their maximum plasma concentrations and circulation time determined. Using this information, the effect of three physiologically relevant mixtures of blueberry‐derived phenolic acids is investigated for their ability to induce nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)‐nuclear translocation and downstream gene expression in human endothelial cells. Pretreatment with the phenolic acids for 18 h results in a significant upregulation of the Nrf2‐regulated antioxidant response proteins heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1) and glutamate‐cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM), following 6 h exposure to 2.5 μm H2O2.

Conclusion

Physiologically relevant concentrations of blueberry‐derived aglycone phenolic acids can induce Nrf2‐regulated antioxidant response proteins in vascular endothelial cells in response to low μm concentrations of H2O2. Our results represent an advance over previous studies that have used single compounds or high concentrations in cell‐based investigations.
The oldest evidence of calcific myonecrosis?
Authors: Jerković I. , Kružić I. , Bašić Ž. , Mihanović F. , Anđelinović Š.
Published: December 2017

On the archaeological site on the necropolis of the Ancient Salona, skeletal remains of 25–34 years old male were found. On the left lower leg, there were extensive pathological changes that were manifested on tibia and fibula as thickening of the bone shafts and fusion of these bones by calcified fusiform mass. The bone borders were sharpened with a new lighter layer of bone, enthesophytes, and/or with calcified tissue that merged with bone. Also, laminar bony outgrowths/plaques were visible on the bone surfaces. Periosteal reaction was visible on the right ulna, femora, and tibiae.

Upon differential diagnosis, on the basis of the affected compartment and the type of the ossification, we have concluded that it was very probably a case of a calcific myonecrosis. However, due to lack of clinical data that are almost never available in ancient skeletons, we could not determine what had caused the condition. As it was to our knowledge the oldest finding of the disease and also the first one that describes pathology on the dry bone specimen, we believe that this case study will contribute both to the study of the antiquity of disease as well as to its manifestations on dry bones.
The Negative Influence of Adiposity Extends to Intraindividual Variability in Cognitive Control Among Preadolescent Children
Authors: Chojnacki Morgan R. , Raine Lauren B. , Drollette Eric S. , Scudder Mark R. , Kramer Arthur F. , Hillman Charles H. , Khan Naiman A.
Published: December 2017

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between adiposity and cognition by using mean accuracy, mean reaction time, and intraindividual variability (IIV) among preadolescents.

Methods

Children 7 to 9 years old (N = 233, 133 females) underwent dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry and a maximal oxygen consumption test to assess whole‐body adiposity and aerobic fitness relative to fat‐free mass (VO2FF), respectively. Attentional inhibition was assessed by using a modified flanker task. IIV was assessed as standard deviation of reaction time and as a coefficient of variation of reaction time (CVRT). Hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed to examine the relationships between adiposity and cognitive measures following the adjustment of significant demographic factors, intelligence quotient, and VO2FF.

Results

Whole‐body adiposity was negatively related to congruent trial mean accuracy and reaction time and to CVRT in both the congruent and incongruent trials. Differences in cognitive function across weight status were selectively evident for measures of IIV, such that children with overweight/obesity (≥ 85th BMI‐for‐age percentile) exhibited higher CVRT for both the congruent and incongruent trials.

Conclusions

This work provides additional evidence linking childhood obesity to poorer cognitive function and includes novel data extending the negative influence of adiposity to measures of intraindividual response variability in cognitive control, even after accounting for intellectual abilities, aerobic fitness, and demographic factors.
Preparation and characterization of siloxane modified: Epoxy terminated polyurethane‐silver nanocomposites
Authors: Mathew Aiswarea , Kurmvanshi Surendra , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: December 2017

The effect of incorporation of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) in an organic–inorganic metal nanocomposite was investigated. A renewable resource‐based polyurethane (PU) was synthesized by an in situ polymerization method with a polyol: diisocyanate ratio of 1:1.2, an epoxy (glycidol) terminated polyurethane (PE) was prepared by a polyol: diisocyanate: glycidol ratio of 1:3:3, a hydroxy terminated poly (dimethyl siloxane) (HTPDMS) modified PE (PES) was synthesized by the incorporation of 10 wt.% of HTPDMS into the PE and a silver nanocomposite (SNC) was synthesized by the addition of 0.3 wt. % SNPs into the PES matrix. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed the existence of NHCOO, Si‐O‐Si and oxirane linkages. The structural analysis was carried by X‐ray diffraction analysis in order to verify the face centered cubic structure of SNPs. The differential scanning Calorimetry analysis and thermogravimetric analysis showed the improved thermal stability by the addition of thermally stable epoxy linkages, high energy siloxane linkages and SNPs. Thus an advanced composite material with desirable properties for industrial applications have been prepared in the current work. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2390–E2396, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers