bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in the occurrence of new conduction abnormalities after transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: van der Boon Robert M.A. , Houthuizen Patrick , Urena Marina , Poels Thomas T. , van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Brueren Guus R.G. , Altintas Sibel , Nuis Rutger Jan , Serruys Patrick W. , van Garsse Leen A.F.M. , van Domburg Ron T. , Cabau Joseph Rodés , de Jaegere Peter P.T. , Prinzen Frits W.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate trends over time in the occurrence of left bundle branch block (LBBB) and permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with the Medtronic CoreValve System (MCS) and Edwards SAPIEN Valve (ESV). Background: TAVI‐induced conduction abnormalities (TAVI‐CAs) such as LBBB and the need for PPI are frequent postoperative complication. New techniques, procedural refinements, and increased awareness are focused on the reduction of these abnormalities.

Methods

Electrocardiograms of 549 patients without preprocedural LBBB and/or pacemaker were assessed to determine the frequency and nature of TAVI‐CAs. To study the effect of experience, patients were subdivided per center into tertiles based on the number of procedures. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to study predictors of TAVI‐induced LBBB (TAVI‐LBBB) and PPI.

Results

TAVI‐LBBB occurred in 185 patients (33.7%) and significantly decreased over time, from 42.6% to 27.3% (P = 0.006). This effect was only significant after implantation of the MCS (59.6% vs. 46.5% vs. 31.1%, P = 0.001, ESV: 22.6% vs. 13.1% vs. 24.8%, P = 0.11). Between tertiles there was no difference in the frequency of PPI after TAVI (n = 73, 13.1% vs. 14.8% vs. 12%, P = 0.74). Multivariate analysis revealed that, independent from valve type, depth of implantation was the only significant predictor of TAVI‐LBBB (OR [95% C.I.]: 1.16 [1.10–1.24], P < 0.001). In case of PPI pre‐existing RBBB (OR [95% C.I.]: 7.22 [3.28–15.88], P < 0.001) was the only significant predictor.

Conclusions

Over time the frequency of LBBB after TAVI decreased significantly, especially in patients undergoing TAVI with the MCS. Experience and the subsequent reduction in depth of implantation seem responsible for this reduction. Contrary to TAVI‐LBBB, the incidence of PPI remained unchanged over time and was not affected by experience. Although experience has led to a decrease in new CAs after TAVI, elucidation of pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying these CAs and subsequent changes in patient stratification, valve design and the procedure are needed to further reduce this complication. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Late coronary BVS malapposition and aneurysm: A Time for Appraisal
Authors: Cortese Bernardo , Silva Orrego Pedro , Virmani Renu
Published: December 2014

Late strut malapposition of currently available stents is a major issue, associated with an increased risk of stent thrombosis. To this day, biovascular scaffolds showed an increased immediate risk of struts malapposition, that however resulted reduced after a few months. Little is known about late acquired struts malapposition of biovascular scaffolds. We here describe two cases that recently occurred in our patients, and we speculate on possible mechanisms for this unexpected and potentially lethal complication. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First reported use of drug‐eluting bioabsorbable vascular scaffold in congenital heart disease
Authors: McCrossan B.A. , McMahon C.J. , Walsh K.P.
Published: December 2014

The aim of catheter intervention for vascular stenosis is the restoration of lumen area and optimization of distal blood flow. In pediatric practice, this has traditionally been a compromise between less effective balloon angioplasty and bare metal stent insertion with its attendant limitations of size. Bioabsorbable stents offer short‐term relief of stenosis, radial support of the healing lesion, return of endothelial function and crucially, in children, the potential for long‐term growth. Initial experience, in pediatric practice, with metal‐based bioabsorbable stents was relatively disappointing with frequent restenosis secondary to early reabsorption. Design modifications resulting in polymer‐based, drug eluting, bioabsorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) have reportedly overcome some of these faults. We describe the first reported use of a drug eluting BVS in three patients with: (1) A newborn with severe right pulmonary artery (RPA) stensosis post repair of type two common arterial trunk. (2) A child with pulmonary atresia/ventricular septal defect (VSD) and major aorto‐pulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs), and (3) An infant with severe left pulmonary artery (LPA) stenosis in the setting of an LPA sling. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients withST‐elevation myocardial infarction during and prior to availability of an in‐houseSTEMIsystem: Early experience and intermediate outcomes of theHARRTprogram for achieving routineD2Btimes <60 minutes
Authors: Nguyen Bryant , Fennessy Michelle , Leya Ferdinand , Nowak Wojciech , Ryan Michael , Freeberg Sheldon , Gill Jasrai , Dieter Robert S , Steen Lowell , Lewis Bruce , Cichon Mark , Probst Beatrice , Jarotkiewicz Michael , Wilber David , Lopez John J.
Published: December 2014

Background

Over the last decade, significant advances in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) workflow have resulted in most hospitals reporting door‐to‐balloon (D2B) times within the 90 min standard. Few programs have been enacted to systematically attempt to achieve routine D2B within 60 min. We sought to determine whether 24‐hr in‐house catheterization laboratory coverage via an In‐House Interventional Team Program (IHIT) could achieve D2B times below 60 min for STEMI and to compare the results to the standard primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) approach.

Methods

An IHIT program was established consisting of an attending interventional cardiologist, and a catheterization laboratory team present in‐hospital 24 hr/day. For all consecutive STEMI patients, we compared the standard primary PCI approach during the two years prior to the program (group A) to the initial 20 months of the IHIT program (group B), and repeated this analysis for only CMS‐reportable patients. The D2B process was analyzed by calculating workflow intervals. The primary endpoint was D2B process times, and secondary endpoints included in‐hospital and 6‐month cardiovascular outcomes and resource utilization.

Results

An IHIT program for STEMI resulted in significant reductions across all treatment intervals with an overall 57% reduction in D2B time, and an absolute reduction in mean D2B time of 71 min. There were no differences pre‐ and post‐program implementation in regard to individual or composite components of in‐hospital cardiovascular outcomes; however at 6 months, there was a reduction in cardiovascular rehospitalization after program implementation (30 vs. 5%,P < 0.01). The IHIT program resulted in a significant reduction in length‐of‐stay (LOS) (90 ± 102 vs. 197 ± 303 hr,P = 0.02), and critical care time (54 ± 97 vs. 149 ± 299 hr,P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Availability of an in‐house 24‐hr STEMI team significantly decreased reperfusion time and led to improved clinical outcomes and a shorter LOS for PCI‐treated STEMI patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fontan fenestration closure with Amplatzer Duct Occluder II device
Authors: McCrossan B.A. , Walsh K.P.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To evaluate Fontan fenestration closure using the Amplatzer Duct Occluder II device (ADO2).

Background

Fontan fenestration closure is a well established catheter intervention. A range of occlusion devices developed for other interventions have been utilized. Most of these devices, and especially the most commonly used Amplatzer Septal Occluder, are relatively bulky. The ADO2 is a low profile, flexible, and inexpensive device which seems well suited to the Fontan fenestration.

Methods

This study details retrospective review of patients undergoing Fontan fenestration closure with an ADO2 device. Outcome measures included procedural success, pre‐ and post‐procedural differences in oxygen saturation and mean pulmonary artery pressure and complications.

Results

Thirteen patients were eligible for inclusion during the 34 month study period. All procedures were technically successful. There was a significant increase in oxygen saturations (Mean = +12%, P < 0.01) after fenestration closure but no significant change in mean pulmonary artery pressure (Mean = +0.5 mm Hg, P = 0.08). There were no procedural complications.

Conclusion

Fontan fenestration closure with the ADO2 device is a simple, short, and cost‐effective procedure. The ADO2 characteristics recommend it to occlusion of varying sizes and morphologies of Fontan fenestration. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous left main coronary artery stent for acute myocardial ischemia after repaired ALCAPA
Authors: Hallbergson Anna , Rome Jonathan J.
Published: December 2014

Percutaneous coronary artery stent angioplasty is rare in the pediatric population but can be a life‐saving by rapidly reestablishing flow to an obstructed coronary artery. It is a technically challenging and high‐risk procedure in infants and further limited by the need for future surgical intervention. We report of an infant with anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery who underwent acutely successful surgical reimplantation of the left coronary artery onto the ascending aorta. One month later, she developed acute myocardial ischemia and emergent catheterization diagnosed near‐total occlusion of the left coronary artery. We implanted a 2.5 mm coronary stent in the left main coronary artery with reestablishment of flow. The patient's left ventricular systolic function recovered within 4 weeks and repeat angiography 3 months later showed complete normalization of the entire left coronary artery system. The patient weighed 3 kg and was < 6 weeks of age at the time of stent implantation which to our knowledge is the smallest and youngest reported patient to undergo coronary stent angioplasty. This case supports the feasibility of this procedure in infants as a temporizing solution to hemodynamic instability from myocardial ischemia due to coronary artery stenosis. The left ventricular systolic function remained normal at 7 months after stent placement and the patient was clinically well from a cardiac perspective. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bronchoscopic guidance of endovascular stenting limits airway compression
Authors: Ebrahim Mohammad , Hagood James , Moore John , El‐Said Howaida
Published: December 2014

Objective

Bronchial compression as a result of pulmonary artery and aortic arch stenting may cause significant respiratory distress. We set out to limit airway narrowing by endovascular stenting, by using simultaneous flexible bronchoscopy and graduated balloon stent dilatation, or balloon angioplasty to determine maximum safe stent diameter.

Methods

Between August 2010 and August 2013, patients with suspected airway compression by adjacent vascular structures, underwent CT or a 3D rotational angiogram to evaluate the relationship between the airway and the blood vessels. If these studies showed close proximity of the stenosed vessel and the airway, simultaneous bronchoscopy and graduated stent re‐dilation or graduated balloon angioplasty were performed.

Results

Five simultaneous bronchoscopy and interventional catheterization procedures were performed in four patients. Median age/weight was 33 (range 9–49) months and14 (range 7.6–24) kg, respectively. Three had hypoplastic left heart syndrome, and one had coarctation of the aorta (CoA). All had confirmed or suspected left main stem bronchial compression. In three procedures, serial balloon dilatation of a previously placed stent in the CoA was performed and bronchoscopy was used to determine the safest largest diameter. In the other two procedures, balloon testing with simultaneous bronchoscopy was performed to determine the stent size that would limit compression of the adjacent airway. In all cases, simultaneous bronchoscopy allowed selection of an ideal caliber of the stent that optimized vessel diameter while minimizing compression of the adjacent airway.

Conclusion

In cases at risk for airway compromise, flexible bronchoscopy is a useful tool to guide endovascular stenting. Maximum safe stent diameter can be determined without risking catastrophic airway compression. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chiral Recognition of Tyrosine Enantiomers Based on Decreased Resonance Scattering Signals With Silver Nanoparticles as Optical Sensor
Authors: Tan Xuanping , Li Qin , Shen Yizhong , Wu Huan , Zhao Yanmei , Yang Jidong
Published: December 2014

A novel chiral sensing platform, employing silver nanoparticles capped with N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NALC‐Ag NPs), was utilized for the discrimination of L‐tyrosine and D‐tyrosine. This nanosensor, which could be used as an optical sensing unit and chiral probe, was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS) spectroscopy. After the proposed sensing platform interacted with L‐tyrosine and D‐tyrosine, a decreased resonance scattering signal was only obtained from L‐tyrosine. This phenomenon offered a useful assay for the selectivity and determination of L‐tyrosine with the RRS method. The linear range and detection limit of L‐tyrosine were 0.2838–20.0 µg⋅mL‐1 and 0.0860 µg⋅mL‐1, respectively. In addition, experimental factors such as acidity, interaction time, and the concentration of enantiomers were investigated with regard to the effect on enantioselective interaction. Chirality 27:194–198, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enantioselective Inhibition of Carprofen Towards UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 2B7
Authors: Fang Zhong‐Ze , Wang Haina , Cao Yun‐Feng , Sun Dong‐Xue , Wang Li‐Xuan , Hong Mo , Huang Ting , Chen Jian‐Xing , Zeng Jia
Published: December 2014

UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs)‐catalyzed glucuronidation conjugation reaction plays an important role in the elimination of many important clinical drugs and endogenous substances. The present study aims to investigate the enantioselective inhibition of carprofen towards UGT isoforms. In vitro a recombinant UGT isoforms‐catalyzed 4‐methylumbelliferone (4‐MU) glucuronidation incubation mixture was used to screen the inhibition potential of (R)‐carprofen and (S)‐carprofen towards multiple UGT isoforms. The results showed that (S)‐carprofen exhibited stronger inhibition potential than (R)‐carprofen towards UGT2B7. However, no significant difference was observed for the inhibition of (R)‐carprofen and (S)‐carprofen towards other UGT isoforms. Furthermore, the inhibition kinetic behavior was compared for the inhibition of (S)‐carprofen and (R)‐carprofen towards UGT2B7. A Lineweaver–Burk plot showed that both (S)‐carprofen and (R)‐carprofen exhibited competitive inhibition towards UGT2B7‐catalyzed 4‐MU glucuronidation. The inhibition kinetic parameter (Ki) was calculated to be 7.0 μM and 31.1 μM for (S)‐carprofen and (R)‐carprofen, respectively. Based on the standard for drug–drug interaction, the threshold for (S)‐carprofen and (R)‐carprofen to induce a drug–drug interaction is 0.7 μM and 3.1 μM, respectively. In conclusion, enantioselective inhibition of carprofen towards UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 2B7 was demonstrated in the present study. Using the in vitro inhibition kinetic parameter, the concentration threshold of (S)‐carprofen and (R)‐carprofen to possibly induce the drug–drug interaction was obtained. Therefore, clinical monitoring of the plasma concentration of (S)‐carprofen is more important than (R)‐carprofen to avoid a possible drug–drug interaction between carprofen and the drugs mainly undergoing UGT2B7‐catalyzed metabolism. Chirality 27:189–193, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retinal projections in the short‐tailed fruit bat, Carollia perspicillata, as studied using the axonal transport of cholera toxin B subunit: Comparison with mouse
Authors: Scalia Frank , Rasweiler John J. , Danias John
Published: December 2014

To provide a modern description of the Chiropteran visual system, the subcortical retinal projections were studied in the short‐tailed fruit bat, Carollia perspicillata, using the anterograde transport of eye‐injected cholera toxin B subunit, supplemented by the silver‐impregnation of anterograde degeneration following eye removal, and compared with the retinal projections of the mouse. The retinal projections were heavily labeled by the transported toxin in both species. Almost all components of the murine retinal projection are present in Carollia in varying degrees of prominence and laterality. The projections: to the superior colliculus, accessory optic nuclei, and nucleus of the optic tract are predominantly or exclusively contralateral; to the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus and posterior pretectal nucleus are predominantly contralateral; to the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus, intergeniculate leaflet, and olivary pretectal nucleus have a substantial ipsilateral component; and to the suprachiasmatic nucleus are symmetrically bilateral. The retinal projection in Carollia is surprisingly reduced at the anterior end of the dorsal lateral geniculate and superior colliculus, suggestive of a paucity of the relevant ganglion cells in the ventrotemporal retina. In the superior colliculus, in which the superficial gray layer is very thin, the projection is patchy in places where the layer is locally absent. Except for a posteriorly located lateral terminal nucleus, the other accessory optic nuclei are diminutive in Carollia, as is the nucleus of the optic tract. In both species the cholera toxin labeled sparse groups of apparently terminating axons in numerous regions not listed above. A question of their significance is discussed. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:1756–1791, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Experimental assessment of the network properties of the Drosophila circadian clock
Authors: Beckwith Esteban J. , Ceriani M. Fernanda
Published: December 2014

Circadian rhythms are conserved across kingdoms and coordinate physiology and behavior for appropriate time‐keeping. The neuronal populations that govern circadian rhythms are described in many animal models, and the current challenge is to understand how they interact to control overt rhythms, remaining plastic enough to respond and adapt to a changing environment. In Drosophila melanogaster, the circadian network comprises about 150 neurons, and the main synchronizer is the neuropeptide pigment‐dispersing factor (PDF), released by the well‐characterized central pacemaker neurons, the small ventral lateral neurons (sLNvs). However, the rules and properties governing the communication and coupling between this central pacemaker and downstream clusters are not fully elucidated. Here we genetically manipulate the speed of the molecular clock specifically in the central pacemaker neurons of Drosophila and provide experimental evidence of their restricted ability to synchronize downstream clusters. We also demonstrate that the sLNv‐controlled clusters have an asymmetric entrainment range and were able to experimentally assess it. Our data imply that different clusters are subjected to different coupling strengths, and display independent endogenous periods. Finally, the manipulation employed here establishes a suitable paradigm to test other network properties as well as the cell‐autonomous mechanisms running in different circadian‐relevant clusters. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:982–996, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functional beverage of Garcinia mangostana (mangosteen) enhances plasma antioxidant capacity in healthy adults
Authors: Xie Zhuohong , Sintara Marsha , Chang Tony , Ou Boxin
Published: December 2014

This study was to investigate the absorption and antioxidant effect of a mangosteen‐based functional beverage in humans. The beverage contained mangosteen, aloe vera, green tea, and multivitamins. A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial was conducted with generally healthy male and female subjects between 18 and 60 years of age. Ten men and 10 women participated in this study. Participants were randomly divided into two groups, treatment and placebo group. Participants received either a daily single dose (245 mL) of the beverage or a placebo. Blood samples were collected from each participant at time points 0, 1, 2, 4, and 6 h. The plasma samples were analyzed by LC/MS for α‐mangostin and vitamins B2 and B5. Results indicated that the three analytes were bioavailable, with observed Cmax at around 1 h. The antioxidant capacity measured with the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay was increased with a maximum effect of 60% after 1 h, and the elevated antioxidant level lasted at least 6 h. This study demonstrated the bioavailability of α‐mangostin and B vitamins from a xanthone‐rich beverage and the mechanisms of the increase in plasma antioxidant may be direct effects from antioxidants, enhancement of endogenous antioxidant activity through activation of Nrf2 pathway, and synergism of the antioxidants.
Genetic Data Simulators and their Applications: An Overview
Authors: Peng Bo , Chen Huann‐Sheng , Mechanic Leah E. , Racine Ben , Clarke John , Gillanders Elizabeth , Feuer Eric J.
Published: December 2014

Computer simulations have played an indispensable role in the development and applications of statistical models and methods for genetic studies across multiple disciplines. The need to simulate complex evolutionary scenarios and pseudo‐datasets for various studies has fueled the development of dozens of computer programs with varying reliability, performance, and application areas. To help researchers compare and choose the most appropriate simulators for their studies, we have created the genetic simulation resources (GSR) website, which allows authors of simulation software to register their applications and describe them with more than 160 defined attributes. This article summarizes the properties of 93 simulators currently registered at GSR and provides an overview of the development and applications of genetic simulators. Unlike other review articles that address technical issues or compare simulators for particular application areas, we focus on software development, maintenance, and features of simulators, often from a historical perspective. Publications that cite these simulators are used to summarize both the applications of genetic simulations and the utilization of simulators.
Imaging distributed and massed repetitions of natural scenes: Spontaneous retrieval and maintenance
Authors: Bradley Margaret M. , Costa Vincent D. , Ferrari Vera , Codispoti Maurizio , Fitzsimmons Jeffrey R. , Lang Peter J.
Published: December 2014

Repetitions that are distributed (spaced) across time prompt enhancement of a memory‐related event‐related potential, compared to when repetitions are massed (contiguous). Here, we used fMRI to investigate neural enhancement and suppression effects during free viewing of natural scenes that were either novel or repeated four times with massed or distributed repetitions. Distributed repetition was uniquely associated with a repetition enhancement effect in a bilateral posterior parietal cluster that included the precuneus and posterior cingulate and which has previously been implicated in episodic memory retrieval. Unique to massed repetition, conversely, was enhancement in a right dorsolateral prefrontal cluster that has been implicated in short‐term maintenance. Repetition suppression effects for both types of spacing were widespread in regions activated during novel picture processing. Taken together, the data are consistent with a hypothesis that distributed repetition prompts spontaneous retrieval of prior occurrences, whereas massed repetition prompts short‐term maintenance of the episodic representation, due to contiguous presentation. These processing differences may mediate the classic spacing effect in learning and memory. Hum Brain Mapp 36:1381–1392, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accessing orthographic representations from speech: The role of left ventral occipitotemporal cortex in spelling
Authors: Ludersdorfer Philipp , Kronbichler Martin , Wimmer Heinz
Published: December 2014

The present fMRI study used a spelling task to investigate the hypothesis that the left ventral occipitotemporal cortex (vOT) hosts neuronal representations of whole written words. Such an orthographic word lexicon is posited by cognitive dual‐route theories of reading and spelling. In the scanner, participants performed a spelling task in which they had to indicate if a visually presented letter is present in the written form of an auditorily presented word. The main experimental manipulation distinguished between an orthographic word spelling condition in which correct spelling decisions had to be based on orthographic whole‐word representations, a word spelling condition in which reliance on orthographic whole‐word representations was optional and a phonological pseudoword spelling condition in which no reliance on such representations was possible. To evaluate spelling‐specific activations the spelling conditions were contrasted with control conditions that also presented auditory words and pseudowords, but participants had to indicate if a visually presented letter corresponded to the gender of the speaker. We identified a left vOT cluster activated for the critical orthographic word spelling condition relative to both the control condition and the phonological pseudoword spelling condition. Our results suggest that activation of left vOT during spelling can be attributed to the retrieval of orthographic whole‐word representations and, thus, support the position that the left vOT potentially represents the neuronal equivalent of the cognitive orthographic word lexicon. Hum Brain Mapp, 36:1393–1406, 2015. © 2014 The Authors Human Brain Mapping Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functional connectivity associated with gait velocity during walking and walking‐while‐talking in aging: A resting‐state fMRI study
Authors: Yuan Jennifer , Blumen Helena M. , Verghese Joe , Holtzer Roee
Published: December 2014

Gait decline is common among older adults and is a risk factor for adverse outcomes. Poor gait performance in dual‐task conditions, such as walking while performing a secondary cognitive interference task, is associated with increased risk of frailty, disability, and death. Yet, the functional neural substrates that support locomotion are not well established. We examined the functional connectivity associated with gait velocity in single‐ (normal pace walking) and dual‐task (walking while talking) conditions using resting‐state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). We acquired 6 minutes of resting‐state fMRI data in 30 cognitively healthy older adults. Independent components analyses were performed to separate resting‐state fMRI data into group‐level statistically independent spatial components that correlated with gait velocity in single‐ and dual‐task conditions. Gait velocity in both task conditions was associated with similar functional connectivity in sensorimotor, visual, vestibular, and left fronto‐parietal cortical areas. Compared to gait velocity in the single‐task condition, the networks associated with gait velocity in the dual‐task condition were associated with greater functional connectivity in supplementary motor and prefrontal regions. Our findings show that there are partially overlapping functional networks associated with single‐ and dual‐task walking conditions. These initial findings encourage the future use of resting‐state fMRI as tool in developing a comprehensive understanding of age‐related mobility impairments. Hum Brain Mapp 36:1484–1493, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cerebellar white matter pathways are associated with reading skills in children and adolescents
Authors: Travis Katherine E. , Leitner Yael , Feldman Heidi M. , Ben‐Shachar Michal
Published: December 2014

Reading is a critical life skill in the modern world. The neural basis of reading incorporates a distributed network of cortical areas and their white matter connections. The cerebellum has also been implicated in reading and reading disabilities. However, little is known about the contribution of cerebellar white matter pathways to major component skills of reading. We used diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) with tractography to identify the cerebellar peduncles in a group of 9‐ to 17‐year‐old children and adolescents born full term (FT, n = 19) or preterm (PT, n = 26). In this cohort, no significant differences were found between fractional anisotropy (FA) measures of the peduncles in the PT and FT groups. FA of the cerebellar peduncles correlated significantly with measures of decoding and reading comprehension in the combined sample of FT and PT subjects. Correlations were negative in the superior and inferior cerebellar peduncles and positive in the middle cerebellar peduncle. Additional analyses revealed that FT and PT groups demonstrated similar patterns of reading associations within the left superior cerebellar peduncle, middle cerebellar peduncle, and left inferior cerebellar peduncle. Partial correlation analyses showed that distinct sub‐skills of reading were associated with FA in segments of different cerebellar peduncles. Overall, the present findings are the first to document associations of microstructure of the cerebellar peduncles and the component skills of reading. Hum Brain Mapp 36:1536–1553, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High liver fibrosis index FIB‐4 is highly predictive of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis B carriers
Authors: Suh Beomseok , Park Sehhoon , Shin Dong Wook , Yun Jae Moon , Yang Hyung‐Kook , Yu Su Jong , Shin Cheong‐Il , Kim Jin‐Soo , Ahn Eunmi , Lee Hyejin , Park Jin Ho , Cho BeLong
Published: December 2014

Screening for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is clinically important given that its early detection has remarkable survival benefits. We investigated the possible role of FIB‐4, a recently developed noninvasive marker for liver fibrosis based on routine laboratory tests, as a clinical indicator for predicting future HCC among hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers. Our retrospective cohort study involved 986 Korean HBsAg carriers 40 years of age or older who visited Seoul National University Hospital for a health checkup. National medical service claims data were used to determine HCC incidence. Median follow‐up time was 5.4 years (interquartile range: 4.4 years). Adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, alcohol, and antiviral medication for hepatitis B, compared to subjects with FIB‐4 <1.25, subjects with 1.7≤ FIB‐4 <2.4 showed an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 4.57 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50‐13.92) and subjects with FIB‐4 ≥2.4 showed an aHR of 21.34 (95% CI: 7.73‐58.92) for HCC incidence. FIB‐4 was shown to have incremental predictive value to ultrasonographic liver cirrhosis for HCC incidence (C‐index: 0.701 vs. 0.831; P = 0.001). FIB‐4 was also better predictive of HCC incidence, compared to that of ultrasonographic liver cirrhosis (C‐index: 0.775 vs. 0.701; P = 0.040). Conclusion: High FIB‐4 is a highly predictive risk factor for HCC incidence among Korean HBsAg carriers. FIB‐4 is a promising, easily applicable, and cost‐effective clinical tool in identifying a subpopulation of HBsAg carriers who are at heightened risk. Our study needs to be replicated in larger future studies on various ethnic groups; nonetheless, our study suggests that FIB‐4 may play a valuable role in HCC screening among HBsAg carriers. (Hepatology 2015;61:1261–1268)
Activation of the transforming growth factor‐β/SMAD transcriptional pathway underlies a novel tumor‐promoting role of sulfatase 1 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Dhanasekaran Renumathy , Nakamura Ikuo , Hu Chunling , Chen Gang , Oseini Abdul M. , Seven Elif Sezin , Miamen Alexander G. , Moser Catherine D. , Zhou Wei , van Kuppevelt Toin H. , van Deursen Jan M. , Mounajjed Taofic , Fernandez‐Zapico Martin E. , Roberts Lewis R.
Published: December 2014

In vitro studies have proposed a tumor suppressor role for sulfatase 1 (SULF1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, high expression in human HCC has been associated with poor prognosis. The reason underlying this paradoxical observation remains to be explored. Using a transgenic (Tg) mouse model overexpressing Sulf1 (Sulf1‐Tg), we assessed the effects of SULF1 on the diethylnitrosamine model of liver carcinogenesis. Sulf1‐Tg mice show a higher incidence of large and multifocal tumors with diethylnitrosamine injection compared to wild‐type mice. Lung metastases were found in 75% of Sulf1‐Tg mice but not in wild‐type mice. Immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and reporter assays all show a significant activation of the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β)/SMAD transcriptional pathway by SULF1 both in vitro and in vivo. This effect of SULF1 on the TGF‐β/SMAD pathway is functional; overexpression of SULF1 promotes TGF‐β‐induced gene expression and epithelial–mesenchymal transition and enhances cell migration/invasiveness. Mechanistic analyses demonstrate that inactivating mutation of the catalytic site of SULF1 impairs the above actions of SULF1 and diminishes the release of TGF‐β from the cell surface. We also show that SULF1 expression decreases the interaction between TGF‐β1 and its heparan sulfate proteoglycan sequestration receptor, TGFβR3. Finally, using gene expression from human HCCs, we show that patients with high SULF1 expression have poorer recurrence‐free survival (hazard ratio 4.1, 95% confidence interval 1.9‐8.3; P = 0.002) compared to patients with low SULF1. We also found strong correlations of SULF1 expression with TGF‐β expression and with several TGF‐β‐related epithelial–mesenchymal transition genes in human HCC. Conclusion: Our study proposes a novel role of SULF1 in HCC tumor progression through augmentation of the TGF‐β pathway, thus defining SULF1 as a potential biomarker for tumor progression and a novel target for drug development for HCC. (Hepatology 2015;61:1269–1283)
Determining the fate of hepatic cells by lineage tracing: Facts and pitfalls
Authors: Lemaigre Frédéric P.
Published: December 2014

Slow renewal of the epithelial cells by proliferation ensures homeostasis of the liver, but extensive proliferation may occur upon injury. When proliferation is impaired, transdifferentiation of mature cells or differentiation of stem cells allows production of new hepatocytes and cholangiocytes. While lineage tracings using cyclization recombinase (Cre) recombinase–mediated cell labeling represent the gold standard for defining cell fate, there are more variables than was initially realized. This led to controversies about the capacity of liver cells to switch their fate. Here, I review how cells are traced in the liver and highlight the experimental pitfalls that may cause misinterpretations and controversies. (Hepatology 2015;61:2100–2103)
Vps4A functions as a tumor suppressor by regulating the secretion and uptake of exosomal microRNAs in human hepatoma cells
Authors: Wei Jin‐xing , Lv Li‐hong , Wan Yun‐le , Cao Yang , Li Guo‐lin , Lin Hao‐ming , Zhou Rui , Shang Chang‐zhen , Cao Jun , He Hai , Han Qing‐fang , Liu Pei‐qing , Zhou Gang , Min Jun
Published: December 2014

The deregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays an important role in human hepatocarcinogenesis. In this study, we highlight exosomes as mediators involved in modulating miRNA profiles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. First, we examined the different miRNA expression profiles in HCC cells and HCC cell–derived exosomes. Next, coculture experiments indicated that HCC cell–derived exosomes promoted the cell growth, migration, and invasion of HCC cells and had the ability to shuttle miRNAs to recipient cells. Further, our data showed that Vps4A, a key regulator of exosome biogenesis, was frequently down‐regulated in HCC tissues. The reduction of Vps4A in HCC tissues was associated with tumor progression and metastasis. In vitro studies revealed that Vps4A repressed the growth, colony formation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. We further investigated the role and involvement of Vps4A in suppressing the bioactivity of exosomes and characterized its ability to weaken the cell response to exosomes. By small RNA sequencing, we demonstrated that Vps4A facilitated the secretion of oncogenic miRNAs in exosomes as well as accumulation and uptake of tumor suppressor miRNAs in cells. A subset of Vps4A‐associated miRNAs was identified. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis indicated that the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/Akt signaling pathway was the most likely candidate pathway for modulation by these miRNAs. Indeed, we proved that the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/Akt pathway was inactivated by Vps4A overexpression. Conclusion: Exosome‐mediated miRNA transfer is an important mechanism of self‐modulation of the miRNA expression profiles in HCC cells, and Vps4A may function as a tumor suppressor, which utilizes exosomes as mediators to regulate the secretion and uptake of miRNAs in hepatoma cells; these observations provide new insights into the development of HCC. (Hepatology 2015;61:1284–1294)
The curvilinear effect of work engagement on employees' turnover intentions
Authors: Caesens Gaëtane , Stinglhamber Florence , Marmier Virginie
Published: December 2014

Numerous studies have shown the positive consequences of work engagement for both organisations and employees experiencing it. For instance, research has demonstrated that work‐engaged employees have lower levels of turnover intentions than non‐engaged employees. However, in this research, we examined whether there is a dark side of work engagement. More precisely, we investigated whether the relationship between work engagement and employees' turnover intentions might be non‐linear. Based on two different samples, our results indicated that the relationship between work engagement and employees' turnover intentions is curvilinear. The theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.
A systematic study of rare gas atoms encapsulated in small fullerenes using dispersion corrected density functional theory
Authors: Sure Rebecca , Tonner Ralf , Schwerdtfeger Peter
Published: December 2014

The most stable fullerene structures from C20 to C60 are chosen to study the energetics and geometrical consequences of encapsulating the rare gas elements He, Ne, or Ar inside the fullerene cage using dispersion corrected density functional theory. An exponential increase in stability is found with increasing number of carbon atoms. A similar exponential law is found for the volume expansion of the cage due to rare gas encapsulation with decreasing number of carbon atoms. We show that dispersion interactions become important with increasing size of the fullerene cage, where Van der Waals forces between the rare gas atom and the fullerene cage start to dominate over repulsive interactions. The smallest fullerenes where encapsulation of a rare gas element is energetically still favorable are He@C48, Ne@C52, and Ar@C58. While dispersion interactions follow the trend Ar > Ne > He inside C60 due to the trend in the rare gas dipole polarizabilities, repulsive forces become soon dominant with smaller cage size and we have a complete reversal for the energetics of rare gas encapsulation at C50. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antenatal sonographic diagnosis of choledochal cyst: Case report and imaging review
Authors: Jensen Kyle K. , Sohaey Roya
Published: December 2014

In this report, we present the antenatal two‐ and three‐dimensional sonographic findings from a fetus with choledochal cyst as well as confirmatory postnatal MRI. A delayed diagnosis of choledochal cyst is common, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Visualizing bile ducts entering a right upper quadrant cyst is pathognomonic, and early diagnosis can facilitate definitive treatment with Roux‐en‐Y hepaticojejunostomy. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 43:581–583, 2015
Submandibular venous hemangioma: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wallace Adam N. , Vyhmeister Ross , Kamran Mudassar , Teefey Sharlene A.
Published: December 2014

Hemangiomas of the submandibular space are very rare. Only 11 cases have been reported in the English literature, all of which were cavernous hemangiomas. In this report, we describe the case of a venous hemangioma in a 70‐year‐old woman. Ultrasound examination revealed a lobulated, homogeneous, hypoechoic mass, and minimal flow was detected on power Doppler evaluation. The mass and the submandibular gland were surgically excised, and the endothelium was found to be positive for CD31 and D2‐40 markers, consistent with venous hemangioma. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a venous hemangioma in the submandibular space. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 43:516–519 2015
Solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas: Findings from routine screening sonographic examination and the value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Jiang Ling , Cui Ligang , Wang Jinrui , Chen Wen , Miao Liying , Jia Jianwen
Published: December 2014

Background

Solid pseudopapillary tumors (SPTs) are rare neoplasms of the pancreas. We describe the features of these small tumors identified on routine screening sonographic (US) examination and the potential value of using contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) scanning.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records from 17 patients who had undergone screening via US examination at Peking University Third Hospital between January 2000 and June 2011. Each of these patients had been confirmed by a pathologist to have an SPT. Six patients had undergone CEUS prior to surgery. We recorded all features on both gray‐scale US and CEUS.

Results

All patients (4 men and 13 women; ages 23–35 years; mean age, 27.2 years) were initially screened by US. The largest mass identified was 5.0 cm in diameter (mean diameter, 4.2 cm), and most tumors showed homogeneous hypoechogenicity. A hyperechoic rim was detected in four masses. CEUS showed peripheral‐rim hyperenhancement in the arterial phase of all six masses.

Conclusions

Routine screening US examinations are capable of identifying small (<5.0 cm) SPTs. These screening examinations allow diagnosis on the basis of typical imaging features, such as a homogeneously hypoechoic mass with a hyperechoic rim. CEUS shows greater detail of the rim and cystic areas in the tumor, which significantly improves the proper diagnosis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2014 © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 43:277–282, 2015
Comparison of noncontrast MRI magnetization transfer and T2‐Weighted signal intensity ratios for detection of bowel wall fibrosis in a Crohn's disease animal model
Authors: Dillman Jonathan R. , Swanson Scott D. , Johnson Laura A. , Moons David S. , Adler Jeremy , Stidham Ryan W. , Higgins Peter D.R.
Published: December 2014

Purpose

To compare the abilities of magnetization transfer magnetic resonance imaging (MT‐MRI) and T2‐weighted signal intensity (T2WSI) ratios to detect intestinal fibrosis in a Crohn's disease animal model.

Materials and Methods

Ten rats ("Group 1") received one trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid enema to induce acute colonic inflammation, while 10 additional animals ("Group 2") received multiple enemas to induce colonic inflammation and fibrosis. Gradient recalled‐echo MT‐MRI (5 and 10 kHz off‐resonance) and T2‐weighted spin‐echo imaging were performed 2 days after the last enema. MT ratios (MTR) and T2WSI ratios were calculated in the area of greatest colonic thickening. Bowel wall MTR, bowel wall MTR normalized to paraspinous muscle MTR ("normalized MTR"), and T2WSI ratios were compared between animal groups using Student's t‐test.

Results

At 10 kHz off‐resonance, mean bowel wall MTR for Group 1 was 24.8 ± 3.1% vs. 30.3 ± 3.2% for Group 2 (P = 0.001). Mean normalized MTR was 0.45 ± 0.05 for Group 1 and 0.58 ± 0.08 for Group 2 (P = 0.0003). At 5 kHz off‐resonance, mean bowel wall MTR for Group 1 was 34.7 ± 5.2% vs. 40.3 ± 3.6% for Group 2 (P = 0.015). Mean normalized MTR was 0.53 ± 0.08 for Group 1 and 0.64 ± 0.07 for Group 2 (P = 0.003). Mean T2WSI ratio was 5.32 ± 0.98 for Group 1 and 3.01 ± 0.66 for group 2 (P < 0.0001). Mean T2WSI ratio/MTR (10 kHz off‐resonance) was 12.06 ± 2.70 for Group 1 and 5.22 ± 1.29 for Group 2 (P < 0.0001), with an ROC c‐statistic of 0.98.

Conclusion

MTR and T2WSI ratios detect bowel wall fibrosis in a Crohn's disease animal model. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:801–810.
Post‐activation potentiation: The neural effects of post—activation depression
Authors: Xenofondos Anthi , Patikas Dimitrios , Koceja David M. , Behdad Tahayori , Bassa Eleni , Kellis Eleftherios , Kotzamanidis Christos
Published: December 2014

Introduction: Our knowledge of the neurophysiology of post‐activation potentiation (PAP) is limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of PAP on twitch torque and H‐reflex amplitude after a 10‐s maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Methods: PAP measurements were assessed with the plantarflexors in a relaxed state and during a tonic contraction at 10% MVC. Results: The H‐reflex/maximum M‐wave ratio (H/M) decreased significantly (P < 0.05) and returned to baseline levels after 1 min. The decrement in H/M was depressed when the plantarflexors were active at 10% MVC, and the depression was more obvious in the lateral gastrocnemius than in the soleus muscle. Conclusions: The inhibition induced immediately after contraction could be attributed to post‐activation depression. We conclude that PAP after a 10‐s MVC cannot be attributed to increased motor neuron excitability through the reflex pathway as assessed by the H‐reflex technique. Muscle Nerve 52: 252–259, 2015
A learning tabu search for a truck allocation problem with linear and nonlinear cost components
Authors: Schindl David , Zufferey Nicolas
Published: December 2014

The two‐level problem studied in this article consists of optimizing the refueling costs of a fleet of locomotives over a railway network. The goal consists of determining: (1) the number of refueling trucks contracted for each yard (truck assignment problem denoted TAP) and (2) the refueling plan of each locomotive (fuel distribution problem denoted FDP). As the FDP can be solved efficiently with existing methods, the focus is put on the TAP only. In a first version of the problem (denoted (P1)), various linear costs (e.g., fuel, fixed cost associated with each refueling, weekly operating costs of trucks) have to be minimized while satisfying a set of constraints (e.g., limited capacities of the locomotives and the trucks). In contrast with the existing literature on this problem, two types of nonlinear cost components will also be considered, based on the following ideas: (1) if several trucks from the same fuel supplier are contracted for the same yard, the supplier is likely to propose discounted prices for that yard (Problem (P2)); (2) if a train stops too often on its route, a penalty is incurred, which represents the dissatisfaction of the clients (Problem (P3)). Even if exact methods based on a mixed integer linear program formulation are available for (P1), they are not appropriate anymore to tackle (P2) and (P3). Various methods are proposed for the TAP: a descent local search, a tabu search, and a learning tabu search (LTS). The latter is a new type of local search algorithm. It involves a learning process relying on a trail system, and it can be applied to any combinatorial optimization problem. Results are reported and discussed for a large set of instances (for (P1), (P2), and (P3)), and show the good performance of LTS. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 62:32–45, 2015