bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving value for money in health: a comparative analysis of OECD countries and regional countries
Authors: Çelik Yusuf , Khan Mahmud , Hikmet Neşet
Published: August 2016

Objective

To measure efficiency gains in health sector over the years 1995 to 2013 in OECD, EU, non‐member European countries.

Methods

An output‐oriented DEA model with variable return to scale, and residuals estimated by regression equations were used to estimate efficiencies of health systems. Slacks for health care outputs and inputs were calculated by using DEA multistage method of estimating country efficiency scores.

Results

Better health outcomes of countries were related with higher efficiency. Japan, France, or Sweden were found to be peer‐efficient countries when compared to other developed countries like Germany and United States. Increasing life expectancy beyond a certain high level becomes very difficult to achieve. Despite declining marginal productivity of inputs on health outcomes, some developed countries and developing countries were found to have lowered their inefficiencies in the use of health inputs. Although there was no systematic relationship between political system of countries and health system efficiency, the objectives of countries on social and health policy and the way of achieving these objectives might be a factor increasing the efficiency of health systems.

Conclusions

Economic and political stability might be as important as health expenditure in improving health system goals. A better understanding of the value created by health expenditures, especially in developed countries, will require analysis of specific health interventions that can increase value for money in health. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hillslope soil water flowpaths and the dynamics of roadside soil cation pools influenced by road deicers
Authors: Rossi Robert J. , Bain Daniel J. , Elliott Emily M. , Divers Marion , O'Neill Bridget
Published: August 2016

Over the past 60 years, road deicers (i.e. road salt) have been applied to roadways in high latitudes to improve road conditions in winter weather. However, the dissolution of road deicers in highway runoff creates waters with high concentrations of sodium, which can mobilize soil metals via soil cation‐exchange reactions. While several studies have detailed the interactions of road salt‐rich solutions and surface and ground waters, less attention has been given to how local hydrologic flowpaths can impact the delivery of these solutions to near‐road soils. Between 2013 and 2014, soil water samples were collected from a roadside transect of lysimeter nests in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (USA). Soil water samples were analysed for metal concentrations and resulting data used to examine cation dynamics. While patterns in soil water calcium and magnesium concentrations follow patterns in soil water sodium concentrations, additional processes influence patterns in soil water potassium concentrations. Specifically, we observe the highest calcium and magnesium concentrations in the deepest lysimeters, suggesting divalent cations are mobilized to, and potentially accumulate in, deeper soil horizons. In contrast, soil water potassium concentrations do not follow this pattern. Additionally, in all examined elements (Ca, Mg, K, Na, and Cl), the timing of concentration peaks appears be influenced by a combination of both distance from the roadside and sampling depth. These relationships not only suggest that multiple soil water flowpaths interact with our study transect but also confirm that road salt plumes persist and migrate following the road salting season. Characterizing the interactions of sodium‐rich solutions and roadside soil cation pools clarifies our understanding of metal dynamics in the roadside environment. A deeper understanding of these processes is necessary to effectively restore and manage watersheds as high total dissolved solid solutions (e.g. road deicing melt, unconventional natural gas brines, and marginal irrigation water) continue to influence hydrological systems. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TERT promoter mutations and chromosome 8p loss are characteristic of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ki Kim Soo , Ueda Yoshihide , Hatano Etsuro , Kakiuchi Nobuyuki , Takeda Haruhiko , Goto Tomoyuki , Shimizu Takahiro , Yoshida Kenichi , Ikura Yoshihiro , Shiraishi Yuichi , Chiba Kenichi , Tanaka Hiroko , Miyano Satoru , Uemoto Shinji , Chiba Tsutomu , Ogawa Seishi , Marusawa Hiroyuki
Published: August 2016

The number of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing. To understand the molecular features of the tumor phenotype, we aimed to clarify the overall landscape of genetic aberrations accumulated in NAFLD‐related HCC. Of 247 HCC patients who underwent hepatectomy during 2010 to 2014 at a single center in Japan, 10 were diagnosed with NAFLD‐HCC based on strict clinical and pathologic criteria. We analyzed the genetic aberrations of 11 NAFLD‐HCC tumor samples from these 10 patients by whole‐exome sequencing, targeted sequencing of the selected genes, and copy number variation studies. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a mean somatic mutation rate of 1.86 per megabase, and 12 genes were recurrently mutated in NAFLD‐HCCs. Targeted sequencing of the 26 selected genes (12 recurrently mutated genes in whole‐exome sequencing and 14 representative HCC‐associated genes) revealed that TERT promoter mutations occurred in 9 of 11 HCCs (82%), followed by CTNNB1 (45%) and TP53 (36%) mutations. Array‐based copy number variation studies identified recurrent gains at 1q and 8q, and recurrent losses at 1p, 4q, 6q, 8p, 13q, 16p, 17p, and 18q. Notably, chromosome 8p loss occurred in all of the NAFLD‐HCC samples. The current study provided the characteristics of genetic aberrations in NAFLD‐HCC and suggested that TERT promoter mutations and chromosome 8p loss mainly contribute to NAFLD‐related liver carcinogenesis.
Targeting of the P2X7 receptor in pancreatic cancer and stellate cells
Authors: Giannuzzo Andrea , Saccomano Mara , Napp Joanna , Ellegaard Maria , Alves Frauke , Novak Ivana
Published: August 2016

The ATP‐gated receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) is involved in regulation of cell survival and has been of interest in cancer field. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly cancer and new markers and therapeutic targets are needed. PDAC is characterized by a complex tumour microenvironment, which includes cancer and pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and potentially high nucleotide/side turnover. Our aim was to determine P2X7R expression and function in human pancreatic cancer cells in vitro as well as to perform in vivo efficacy study applying P2X7R inhibitor in an orthotopic xenograft mouse model of PDAC. In the in vitro studies we show that human PDAC cells with luciferase gene (PancTu‐1 Luc cells) express high levels of P2X7R protein. Allosteric P2X7R antagonist AZ10606120 inhibited cell proliferation in basal conditions, indicating that P2X7R was tonically active. Extracellular ATP and BzATP, to which the P2X7R is more sensitive, further affected cell survival and confirmed complex functionality of P2X7R. PancTu‐1 Luc migration and invasion was reduced by AZ10606120, and it was stimulated by PSCs, but not by PSCs from P2X7‐/‐ animals. PancTu‐1 Luc cells were orthotopically transplanted into nude mice and tumour growth was followed noninvasively by bioluminescence imaging. AZ10606120‐treated mice showed reduced bioluminescence compared to saline‐treated mice. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed P2X7R expression in cancer and PSC cells, and in metaplastic/neoplastic acinar and duct structures. PSCs number/activity and collagen deposition was reduced in AZ10606120‐treated tumours.
Calculating protein–ligand binding affinities with MMPBSA: Method and error analysis
Authors: Wang Changhao , Nguyen Peter H. , Pham Kevin , Huynh Danielle , Le Thanh‐Binh Nancy , Wang Hongli , Ren Pengyu , Luo Ray
Published: August 2016

Molecular Mechanics Poisson–Boltzmann Surface Area (MMPBSA) methods have become widely adopted in estimating protein–ligand binding affinities due to their efficiency and high correlation with experiment. Here different computational alternatives were investigated to assess their impact to the agreement of MMPBSA calculations with experiment. Seven receptor families with both high‐quality crystal structures and binding affinities were selected. First the performance of nonpolar solvation models was studied and it was found that the modern approach that separately models hydrophobic and dispersion interactions dramatically reduces RMSD's of computed relative binding affinities. The numerical setup of the Poisson–Boltzmann methods was analyzed next. The data shows that the impact of grid spacing to the quality of MMPBSA calculations is small: the numerical error at the grid spacing of 0.5 Å is already small enough to be negligible. The impact of different atomic radius sets and different molecular surface definitions was further analyzed and weak influences were found on the agreement with experiment. The influence of solute dielectric constant was also analyzed: a higher dielectric constant generally improves the overall agreement with experiment, especially for highly charged binding pockets. The data also showed that the converged simulations caused slight reduction in the agreement with experiment. Finally the direction of estimating absolute binding free energies was briefly explored. Upon correction of the binding‐induced rearrangement free energy and the binding entropy lost, the errors in absolute binding affinities were also reduced dramatically when the modern nonpolar solvent model was used, although further developments were apparently necessary to further improve the MMPBSA methods. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurotransmitters: The Critical Modulators Regulating Gut–Brain Axis
Authors: Mittal Rahul , Debs Luca H. , Patel Amit P. , Nguyen Desiree , Patel Kunal , O'Connor Gregory , Grati M'hamed , Mittal Jeenu , Yan Denise , Eshraghi Adrien A. , Deo Sapna K. , Daunert Sylvia , Liu Xue Zhong
Published: August 2016

Neurotransmitters, including catecholamines and serotonin, play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the human body. Studies on these neurotransmitters mainly revolved around their role in the “fight or flight” response, transmitting signals across a chemical synapse and modulating blood flow throughout the body. However, recent research has demonstrated that neurotransmitters can play a significant role in the gastrointestinal (GI) physiology. Norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E), dopamine (DA), and serotonin have recently been a topic of interest because of their roles in the gut physiology and their potential roles in GI and central nervous system pathophysiology. These neurotransmitters are able to regulate and control not only blood flow, but also affect gut motility, nutrient absorption, GI innate immune system, and the microbiome. Furthermore, in pathological states, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Parkinson's disease, the levels of these neurotransmitters are dysregulated, therefore causing a variety of GI symptoms. Research in this field has shown that exogenous manipulation of catecholamine serum concentrations can help in decreasing symptomology and/or disease progression. In this review article, we discuss the current state‐of‐the‐art research and literature regarding the role of neurotransmitters in regulation of normal GI physiology, their impact on several disease processes, and novel work focused on the use of exogenous hormones and/or psychotropic medications to improve disease symptomology. J. Cell. Physiol. 232: 2359–2372, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison and Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Two Approaches of Diffusible Iodine‐Based Contrast‐Enhanced Computed Tomography (diceCT) for Avian Cephalic Material
Authors: LI ZHIHENG , KETCHAM RICHARD A. , YAN FEI , MAISANO JESSICA A. , CLARKE JULIA A.
Published: August 2016

Diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography presents a comparatively new tool kit for imaging fine‐scale three‐dimensional phenotypes that is rapidly becoming standard anatomical practice. However, relatively few studies have attempted to look at subtle differences in staining protocols or attempted to model tissue reactions to gain insight into staining mechanisms. Here, two iodine‐based contrast agents, iodine‐ethanol (I2E) and iodine‐potassium iodide (I2KI) in neutral buffered formalin , were applied to avian cephalic specimens to investigate their effectiveness. We found that the two solutions had markedly different results for staining of mineralized skeletal tissues (i.e., bone). Other tissues, including muscles, epithelia, and common connective tissues (e.g., lamina propria) were assessed individually and show minor differences in the sorption of iodine. Numerical simulations suggest that different results from I2E and I2KI‐formaldehyde staining are due to different partition coefficients and retardation factors of tissues, fixation effects, as well as distinct iodine diffusion and sorption patterns. We found a clear positive relationship between glycogen concentration and grayscale values measured within muscle, epithelia, nervous tissues, and glands. We also found the use of ethanol for tissue fixation and following I2E staining outperforms I2KI‐formaldehyde by providing higher efficiency for acquiring greater contrast both between different soft tissues and between mineralized and nonmineralized tissues.
Small bowel neuroendocrine tumors: A critical analysis of diagnostic work‐up and operative approach
Authors: Ethun Cecilia G. , Postlewait Lauren M. , Baptiste Gillian G. , McInnis Mia R. , Cardona Kenneth , Russell Maria C. , Kooby David A. , Staley Charles A. , Maithel Shishir K.
Published: August 2016

Background

Small bowel neuroendocrine tumors (SB‐NETs) are often small, multifocal, difficult to localize preoperatively, and can be overlooked during operative exploration. The optimal work‐up and operative approach is unknown.

Methods

Patients who underwent resection of SB‐NETs at a single‐institution from 2000 to 2014 were included. Primary aim was to describe the diagnostic work‐up and compare minimally invasive (MIS) to open resection.

Results

Ninety‐three patients underwent resection for SB‐NETs. About 71% were symptomatic and on average underwent three diagnostic tests: 45% had octreoscans (85% diagnostic yield); 11% had SB‐enteroscopy (10% yield); 19% had capsule endoscopy (83% yield, but identified the correct tumor number in only 21%). About 27 pts underwent MIS versus 66 open. MIS pts were younger (56 vs. 61 yrs; P = 0.035), and less likely to have obstruction (4% vs. 24%; P = 0.019) and metastases (19% vs. 44%; P = 0.038). Compared to open, MIS had smaller (1.7 vs. 2.4 cm; P = 0.03) and fewer tumors resected (2 vs. 5; P = 0.049), but similar LN yield (13 vs. 12; P = 0.7). In non‐metastatic, curative‐intent resections, MIS still resected fewer tumors compared to open (1.5 vs. 4; P = 0.034).

Conclusion

Capsule endoscopy may be better than small bowel enteroscopy at identifying occult SB‐NETs, but may underestimate tumor burden. While MIS may be appropriate in select patients, recognizing the limitations of preoperative evaluation is critical for these tumors, as heightened operative vigilance is often required. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:671–676. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic implications of 2005 Gleason grade modification. Population‐based study of biochemical recurrence following radical prostatectomy
Authors: Thomsen Frederik B. , Folkvaljon Yasin , Brasso Klaus , Loeb Stacy , Robinson David , Egevad Lars , Stattin Pär
Published: August 2016

Objective

To assess the impact of the 2005 modification of the Gleason classification on risk of biochemical recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP).

Patients and Methods

In the Prostate Cancer data Base Sweden (PCBaSe), 2,574 men assessed with the original Gleason classification and 1,890 men assessed with the modified Gleason classification, diagnosed between 2003 and 2007, underwent primary RP. Histopathology was reported according to the Gleason Grading Groups (GGG): GGG1 = Gleason score (GS) 6, GGG2 = GS 7(3 + 4), GGG3 = GS 7(4 + 3), GGG4 = GS 8 and GGG5 = GS 9–10. Cumulative incidence and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess difference in BCR.

Results

The cumulative incidence of BCR was lower using the modified compared to the original classification: GGG2 (16% vs. 23%), GGG3 (21% vs. 35%) and GGG4 (18% vs. 34%), respectively. Risk of BCR was lower for modified versus original classification, GGG2 Hazard ratio (HR) 0.66, (95%CI 0.49–0.88), GGG3 HR 0.57 (95%CI 0.38–0.88) and GGG4 HR 0.53 (95%CI 0.29–0.94).

Conclusion

Due to grade migration following the 2005 Gleason modification, outcome after RP are more favourable. Consequently, outcomes from historical studies cannot directly be applied to a contemporary setting. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:664–670. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictive global trends in the incidence and mortality of pancreatic cancer based on geographic location, socio‐economic status, and demographic shift
Authors: Are Chandrakanth , Chowdhury Sanjib , Ahmad Humera , Ravipati Advaitaa , Song Tianqiang , Shrikandhe Shailesh , Smith Lynette
Published: August 2016

Background and Objectives

Pancreatic Cancer (PC) is a lethal malignancy that accounts for about 4% of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. The aim of this study is to describe the influence of geography (based on WHO regions), socio‐economic development (based on Human Development Index [HDI]) and demographic shift on the temporal trends in global incidence and mortality of PC.

Methods

Data (2012–2030) relating to the incidence, mortality of PC and demographic shifts based on WHO regions and HDI areas were extracted from GLOBOCAN 2012. Linear regression was used to evaluate trends in total incidence and mortality.

Results

We noted a definite association between PC and higher socio‐economic status. Advanced age (age ≥65) contributed to the rising burden in all socio‐economic regions of the world except in the Low Human Development (LHD) countries where the disease predominantly affected population <65 years of age.

Conclusions

The global burden of PC is expected to rise significantly over the next few decades regardless of geographic location, socio‐economic development, age and gender. Advance knowledge of this data can help formulate strategies to specifically target countries and populations that promote public health policy to tackle this lethal disease on the global stage. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:736–742. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of Clay Dispersed in Water for Decreasing Soil Water Repellency
Authors: Diamantis Vasileios , Pagorogon Lorvi , Gazani Eleutheria , Gkiougkis Ioannis , Pechtelidis Alexandros , Pliakas Fotios , van den Elsen Erik , Doerr Stefan H. , Ritsema Coen J.
Published: August 2016

In this study, we examined the efficiency of a kaolinite clayey soil to mitigate water repellency of a sandy soil with olive trees. The treatment was applied to the soil zone below the tree canopy, which displayed the highest degree of water repellency [average water drop penetration time (WDPT) value = 820 s]. Both dry (incorporated onto the top soil) and wet clay applications (after dispersion in irrigation water) were examined in a replicated experiment, with control trees being used for comparison. The application rate of the clayey soil was maintained in both cases (wet and dry mode) equal to 1 kg m−2, while the effect of subsequent wetting and drying cycles on the treatment performance was evaluated. The results of the study verify that clay application was effective to mitigate soil water repellency. Dry supplementation displayed low efficiency (26% reduction of the air‐dry WDPT compared with the control soil) within the first week of application. The efficiency of the dry‐clay treatment increased to 76% after applying three subsequent wetting and drying cycles. In comparison with the dry mode, the wet clay was efficient immediately after application (74% reduction of the WDPT), indicating that the limiting step in the overall process was clay dispersion. Based on the findings of this study, it was proposed that wet clay application is of interest for controlling soil water repellency in agricultural land. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
13C and 15N NMR spectra of high‐energy polyazidocyanopyridines
Authors: Chapyshev Sergei V. , Chernyak Alexander V. , Ushakov Evgeny N.
Published: August 2016

13C and 15N NMR spectra of high‐energy 2,4,6‐triazidopyridine‐3,5‐dicarbonitrile, 2,3,5,6‐tetraazidopyridine‐4‐carbonitrile and 3,4,5,6‐tetraazidopyridine‐2‐carbonitrile are reported. The assignment of signals in the spectra was performed on the basis of density functional theory calculations. The molecular geometries were optimized using the M06‐2X functional with the 6‐311+G(d,p) basis set. The magnetic shielding tensors were calculated by the gauge‐independent atomic orbital method with the Tao–Perdew–Staroverov–Scuseria hybrid functional known as TPSSh. In all the calculations, a polarizable continuum model was used to simulate solvent effects. This approach provided accurate predictions of the 13C and 15N chemical shifts for all the three compounds despite complications arising due to non‐coplanar arrangement of the azido groups in the molecules. It was found that the 15N chemical shifts of the Nα atoms in the azido groups of 2,4,6‐triazidopyridines correlate with the 13C chemical shifts of the carbon atoms attached to these azido groups. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MRI‐based quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) and R2* mapping of liver iron overload: Comparison with SQUID‐based biomagnetic liver susceptometry
Authors: Sharma Samir D. , Fischer Roland , Schoennagel Bjoern P. , Nielsen Peter , Kooijman Hendrik , Yamamura Jin , Adam Gerhard , Bannas Peter , Hernando Diego , Reeder Scott B.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

We aimed to determine the agreement between quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM)‐based biomagnetic liver susceptometry (BLS) and confounder‐corrected R2* mapping with superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID)‐based biomagnetic liver susceptometry in patients with liver iron overload.

Methods

Data were acquired from two healthy controls and 22 patients undergoing MRI and SQUID‐BLS as part of routine monitoring for iron overload. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed on a 3T system using a three‐dimensional multi‐echo gradient‐echo acquisition. Both magnetic susceptibility and R2* of the liver were estimated from this acquisition. Linear regression was used to compare estimates of QSM‐BLS and R2* to SQUID‐BLS.

Results

Both QSM‐BLS and confounder‐corrected R2* were sensitive to the presence of iron in the liver. Linear regression between QSM‐BLS and SQUID‐BLS demonstrated the following relationship: QSM‐BLS = (−0.22 ± 0.11) + (0.49 ± 0.05) · SQUID‐BLS with r2 = 0.88. The coefficient of determination between liver R2* and SQUID‐BLS was also r2 = 0.88.

Conclusion

We determined a strong correlation between both QSM‐BLS and confounder‐corrected R2* to SQUID‐BLS. This study demonstrates the feasibility of QSM‐BLS and confounder‐corrected R2* for assessing liver iron overload, particularly when SQUID systems are not accessible. Magn Reson Med 78:264–270, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
New strategy for improving the diagnostic sensitivity of repetitive nerve stimulation in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Bou Ali Hanna , Salort‐Campana Emmanuelle , Grapperon Aude Marie , Gallard Julien , Franques Jerome , Sevy Amandine , Delmont Emilien , Verschueren Annie , Pouget Jean , Attarian Shahram
Published: August 2016

Introduction: The diagnostic sensitivity of repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) varies as a function of the number of muscles or the choice of muscles studied. Methods: By exploring 12 muscles bilaterally, we evaluated the global sensitivity of RNS at rest, the sensitivity in different clinical forms, and the sensitivity of different combinations of muscles studied. Results: The global sensitivity of RNS was 82%, and specificity was 100%. The sensitivity in the MG subgroups was as follows: ocular (O) = 67%; oculobulbar (OB) = 86%; and generalized (G) = 89%. The most sensitive muscles were the anconeus in group O, orbicularis oculi (OO) or nasalis in group OB, and the trapezius in group G. Maximum sensitivity was obtained by exploring OO, trapezius, and anconeus bilaterally. Conclusions: We recommend bilateral exploration of at least 3 muscles, a facial muscle, trapezius, and anconeus. Muscle Nerve 55: 532–538, 2017
The impact of obesity on outcomes and complications after top‐down retropubic midurethral sling
Authors: Karaman Umar , Campbell Kevin J. , Frilot Clifton F. , Gomelsky Alex
Published: August 2016

Aims

Obese women (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) have been considered at higher risk for postoperative complications and failure in efficacy after SUI surgery. We compare the outcomes in this population with non‐obese women (BMI < 30 kg/m2) undergoing top‐down retropubic polypropylene midurethral sling (RPM).

Methods

We retrospectively identified 328 non‐obese women and 294 obese women who underwent RPM. Evaluation included SEAPI (stress incontinence, emptying, anatomy, protection, inhibition) assessment and validated QoL questionnaires. Cure was defined as absence of subjective and objective SUI and no additional procedures to correct SUI. Perioperative details were abstracted from the hospital and clinic charts. Groups and outcomes were statistically compared.

Results

All women had a minimum follow up of 12 months. Preoperative demographic variables, SEAPI scores, and QoL indices were similar between BMI groups. SUI cure rates were significantly higher for non‐obese women (82.9% vs. 74.5%; P < 0.01). When controlling for concomitant pelvic surgery, cure rates were not statistically different (76.9% vs. 73.7%; P = 0.65). Statistically significant improvement in SEAPI scores and QoL indices was achieved in both groups. Overall, obese women had no increase in complications compared with the non‐obese. The chance of passing an initial postoperative voiding trial was statistically higher in the obese group.

Conclusions

Obese women have similar success rates and significant improvement in QoL as non‐obese women after RPM. Obesity alone does not appear to be a risk factor for additional complications during sling surgery and obese women may have earlier return to normal voiding after surgery.
Validating a robust double‐quantum‐filtered 1H MRS lactate measurement method in high‐grade brain tumours
Authors: Payne G.S. , Harris L.M. , Cairns G.S. , Messiou C. , deSouza N.M. , Macdonald A. , Saran F. , Leach M.O.
Published: August 2016

1H MRS measurements of lactate are often confounded by overlapping lipid signals. Double‐quantum (DQ) filtering eliminates lipid signals and permits single‐shot measurements, which avoid subtraction artefacts in moving tissues. This study evaluated a single‐voxel‐localized DQ filtering method qualitatively and quantitatively for measuring lactate concentrations in the presence of lipid, using high‐grade brain tumours in which the results could be compared with standard acquisition as a reference.

Paired standard acquisition and DQ‐filtered 1H MR spectra were acquired at 3T from patients receiving treatment for glioblastoma, using fLASER (localization by adiabatic selective refocusing using frequency offset corrected inversion pulses) single‐voxel localization. Data were acquired from 2 × 2 × 2 cm3 voxels, with a repetition time of 1 s and 128 averages (standard acquisition) or 256 averages (DQ‐filtered acquisition), requiring 2.15 and 4.3 min respectively.

Of 37 evaluated data pairs, 20 cases (54%) had measureable lactate (fitted Cramér–Rao lower bounds ≤ 20%) in either the DQ‐filtered or the standard acquisition spectra. The measured DQ‐filtered lactate signal was consistently downfield of lipid (1.33 ± 0.03 ppm vs 1.22 ± 0.08 ppm; p = 0.002), showing that it was not caused by lipid breakthrough, and that it matched the lactate signal seen in standard measurements (1.36 ± 0.02 ppm). In the absence of lipid, similar lactate concentrations were measured by the two methods (mean ratio DQ filtered/standard acquisition = 1.10 ± 0.21). In 7/20 cases with measurable lactate, signal was not measureable in the standard acquisition owing to lipid overlap but was quantified in the DQ‐filtered acquisition. Conversely, lactate was undetected in seven DQ‐filtered acquisitions but visible using the standard acquisition.

In conclusion, the DQ filtering method has proven robust in eliminating lipid and permits uncontaminated measurement of lactate. This is important validation prior to use in tissues outside the brain, which contain large amounts of lipid and which are often susceptible to motion.
miR‐155 expression and correlation with clinical outcome in pediatric AML: A report from Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Ramamurthy Ranjani , Hughes Maya , Morris Valerie , Bolouri Hamid , Gerbing Robert B. , Wang Yi‐Cheng , Loken Michael R. , Raimondi Susana C. , Hirsch Betsy A. , Gamis Alan S. , Oehler Vivian G. , Alonzo Todd A. , Meshinchi Soheil
Published: August 2016

Background

Aberrant expression of microRNA‐155 (miR‐155) has been implicated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and associated with clinical outcome.

Procedure

We evaluated miR‐155 expression in 198 children with normal karyotype AML (NK‐AML) enrolled in Children's Oncology Group (COG) AML trial AAML0531 and correlated miR‐155 expression levels with disease characteristics and clinical outcome. Patients were divided into quartiles (Q1–Q4) based on miR‐155 expression level, and disease characteristics were then evaluated and correlated with miR‐155 expression.

Results

MiR‐155 expression varied over 4‐log10‐fold range relative to its expression in normal marrow with a median expression level of 0.825 (range 0.043–25.630) for the entire study cohort. Increasing miR‐155 expression was highly associated with the presence of FLT3/ITD mutations (P < 0.001) and high‐risk disease (P < 0.001) and inversely associated with standard‐risk (P = 0.008) and low‐risk disease (P = 0.041). Patients with highest miR‐155 expression had a complete remission (CR) rate of 46% compared with 82% in low expressers (P < 0.001) with a correspondingly lower event‐free (EFS) and overall survival (OS) (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). In a multivariate model that included molecular risk factors, high miR‐155 expression remained a significant independent predictor of OS (P = 0.022) and EFS (0.019).

Conclusions

High miR‐155 expression is an adverse prognostic factor in pediatric NK‐AML patients. Specifically, high miR‐155 expression not only correlates with FLT3/ITD mutation status and high‐risk disease but it is also an independent predictor of worse EFS and OS.
A pilot study of parent education intervention improves early childhood development among toddlers with sickle cell disease
Authors: Fields Melanie E. , Hoyt‐Drazen Catherine , Abel Regina , Rodeghier Mark J. , Yarboi Janet M. , Compas Bruce E. , King Allison A.
Published: August 2016

Background

Young children with sickle cell disease (SCD) are at risk for cognitive delay. In addition to biologic risk factors associated with SCD, environmental factors contribute to cognitive dysfunction within this cohort.

Methods

We completed a single‐arm, prospective cohort study. Children with SCD between the ages of 3 and 36 months and their caregivers were followed between October 2010 and December 2013. The aim was to describe the role of a home visitation model, the home environment, and socioeconomic status in the development of young children with SCD. Primary outcome measures were the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (BSID‐III) and the Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment (HOME). We hypothesized that the home visitation model, Parents as Teachers® (PAT), would encourage positive parent–child interactions and improve cognitive outcomes.

Results

Thirty‐five participants had at least two PAT visits and BSID‐III assessments. Mean scores within all five subtests of the BSID‐III improved between enrollment and exit, with significant changes within cognitive (P = 0.016) and expressive language (EL) domains (P = 0.002). Multivariate modeling found the HOME score associated with the exit results of the cognitive domain.

Conclusion

We report longitudinal results of the first home visitation program within the early childhood SCD population and show significant improvement in cognitive and EL development. Additionally, home environment was a significant predictor of cognitive development. Randomized controlled trials to test the impact of interventions targeting the home environment are warranted for this vulnerable population.
Analysis of protein profiling studies of β‐thalassemia/Hb E disease
Authors: Lithanatudom Pathrapol , Smith Duncan R.
Published: August 2016

A number of studies have used global protein profiling technologies on a range of patient samples to detect proteins that are differentially expressed in β‐thalassemia/Hb E as an aid for understanding the physiopathology of this disease. Seven studies have identified a total of 111 unique, differentially expressed proteins. Seven proteins (prothrombin, alpha‐1‐antichymotrypsin, fibrinogen beta chain, hemoglobin beta, selenium‐binding protein, microtubule‐actin cross‐linking factor and adenomatous polyposis coli protein 2) have been identified in two independent studies, whereas two proteins (carbonic anhydrase 1 and peroxiredoxin‐2) have been identified in three independent studies. Both of these latter two proteins were consistently upregulated in the studies that identified them. Ontological analysis of all differentially regulated proteins identified “response to inorganic substances” as the most significant functional annotation cluster, which is consistent with iron overload being a major pathological consequence of this disease. Despite the range of samples investigated and the relatively small number of studies undertaken, a coherent picture of the mediators of the pathological consequences of β‐thalassemia/Hb E disease is starting to emerge.
First‐principles lattice dynamics and Raman scattering in ionic conductor β‐Ag2S
Authors: Alekperov Oktay , Jahangirli Zakir , Paucar Raul
Published: August 2016

The phonon structure of the silver sulfide Ag2S was investigated, experimentally using Raman spectroscopy, and theoretically using the density‐functional perturbation theory for the first time. Seven Raman‐active modes were observed and identified at 23, 39, 42, 44, 62, 65, and 243 cm−1. Symmetry assignments of all the vibrational modes were derived from considerations of point group symmetry. The phonon band structure and the relative Raman intensities were also investigated by ab initio calculations and compared with the experimental data. The temperature, laser power, and illumination time dependencies of frequency, linewidth, and intensity of the Raman‐active modes are discussed. In the Raman spectra at higher frequencies 1300–1700 cm−1, additional broad Raman modes observed in all samples at higher laser powers 8–10 mW were ascribed to luminescence from β‐Ag2S. The phonon and Raman spectra of the β‐Ag2S provide a useful insight into the β‐Ag2S → α‐Ag2S phase transition. Finally, calculated infrared vibrational mode frequencies were compared with measured infrared mode frequencies.
Superconductivity and fluctuations in Ba1–pKpFe2As2 and Ba(Fe1–nCon)2As2
Authors: Böhm T. , Hosseinian Ahangharnejhad R. , Jost D. , Baum A. , Muschler B. , Kretzschmar F. , Adelmann P. , Wolf T. , Wen H.‐H. , Chu J.‐H. , Fisher I. R. , Hackl R.
Published: August 2016

We study the interplay of fluctuations and superconductivity in BaFe2As2 (Ba‐122) compounds with Ba and Fe substituted by K (p doping) and Co (n doping), respectively. To this end, we measured electronic Raman spectra as a function of polarization and temperature. We observe gap excitations and fluctuations for all doping levels studied. The response from fluctuations is much stronger for Co substitution and, according to the selection rules and the temperature dependence, originates from the exchange of two critical spin fluctuations with characteristic wave vectors and . At 22% K doping (), we find the same selection rules and spectral shape for the fluctuations but the intensity is smaller by a factor of 5. Since there exists no nematic region above the orthorhombic spin‐density‐wave (SDW) phase, the identification of the fluctuations via the temperature dependence is not possible. The gap excitations in the superconducting state indicate strongly anisotropic near‐nodal gaps for Co substitution which make the observation of collective modes difficult. The variation with doping of the spectral weights of the and gap features does not support the influence of fluctuations on Cooper pairing. Therefore, the observation of Bardasis–Schrieffer modes inside the nearly clean gaps on the K‐doped side remains the only experimental evidence for the relevance of fluctuations for pairing.
Dynamic Performance of Stacked Packaging Units
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Wei , Fang Ke
Published: August 2016

Stacked packaging units is the main form of distribution packaging of products. Its dynamic performance is not fully understood. This paper investigated the influence of the constraint, input vibration, location and contact nonlinearity on the dynamic performance of three layers stacked packaging units. The dynamic contact force between surfaces and acceleration response of products were obtained. In sine sweep vibrations, the constraint to stacked packaging units has an obvious influence on the dynamic characteristics. The acceleration response of product is associated with the vibration mode. The force amplification factor is in general between 1.5 and 2, but it can close to 3 on top layer in the case of no fixed. In random vibrations, non‐Gaussian data of dynamic contact force appear when Gaussian data of input vibration pass through the stacked packaging units, resulting a Weibull distribution of force level‐crossing. The force level‐crossing diagram becomes more abrupt with the decreasing of input vibration level, smoother from the top contact surface to middle and bottom ones, and moves right and becomes smoother with the constraint strengthen. In the case of lower input level, Gaussian distribution of force level‐crossing appears. The force power spectral density (PSD) between bottom box and table is much larger than that between boxes, which is significantly influenced by the first resonance frequency. However, the acceleration PSD of product is significantly influenced by both the first and second resonance frequencies, and controlled by the vibration mode. It depends much on the value of input acceleration PSD around the resonance frequencies.
Cyclization of N‐arylcyclopropanecarboxamides into N‐arylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones under electron ionization and in the condensed phase
Authors: Lebedev A. T. , Mazur D. M. , Kudelin A. I. , Fedotov A. N. , Gloriozov I. P. , Ustynyuk Yu. A. , Artaev V. B.
Published: August 2016

Rationale

Mass spectrometry is known as an excellent method to predict the behavior of organic compounds in solution. The behavior of organic compounds in the gas phase inside the ion source of a mass spectrometer allows their intrinsic properties to be defined, avoiding the influence of intermolecular interactions, counter ions and solvent effects.

Methods

Arylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones were obtained by condensed‐phase synthesis from the corresponding N‐arylcyclopropanecarboxamides. Electron ionization (EI) with accurate mass measurements by high‐resolution time‐of‐flight mass‐spectrometry and quantum chemical calculations were used to understand the behavior of the molecular radical cations of N‐arylcyclopropanecarboxamides and N‐arylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones in the ion source of a mass spectrometer. The geometries of the molecules, transition states, and intermediates were fully optimized using DFT‐PBE calculations.

Results

Fragmentation schemes, ion structures, and possible mechanisms of primary isomerisation were proposed for isomeric N‐arylcyclopropanecarboxamides and N‐arylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones. Based on the fragmentation pattern of the N‐arylcyclopropanecarboxamides, isomerisation of the original M+• ions into the M+• ions of the N‐arylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones was shown to be only a minor process. In contrast, this cyclization proceeds easily in the condensed phase in the presence of Brønsted acids.

Conclusions

Based on the experimental data and quantum chemical calculations the principal mechanism of decomposition of the molecular ions of N‐arylcyclopropanecarboxamides involves their direct fragmentation without any rearrangements. An alternative mechanism is responsible for the isomerisation of a small portion of the higher energy molecular ions into the corresponding N‐arylpyrrolidin‐2‐one ions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis of helium by post‐ionization method using femtosecond laser technique
Authors: Yurimoto Hisayoshi , Bajo Ken‐ichi , Sakaguchi Isao , Suzuki Taku T. , Jurewicz Amy J. G. , Itose Satoru , Uchino Kiichiro , Ishihara Morio
Published: August 2016

Helium has the largest ionization potential of all elements; thus, it is difficult to ionize for measurement by mass spectrometry. In order to analyze He, a tunnel‐ionization time‐of‐flight sputtered neutral mass spectrometry system (called LIMAS) has recently been developed. LIMAS uses a femtosecond laser technique and can ionize He. We quantified the effectiveness of this method for He analysis from a 2.5 × 4 µm2 area of He‐implanted silicon. The amount of He in an implant was quantified by measuring the ion current, giving a nominal implant fluence per unit area. Thus, the fraction of total He measured by LIMAS during depth profiling could be quantified by comparison with the He concentration of the reference implant. The He+ intensities normalized by host ions of Si linearly correlated with the known He concentrations with a reproducibility of 10% at concentrations less than 1021 cm−3. The detection limit was down to 1018 He cm−3 (20 ppm). For concentrations exceeding 1021 cm−3, the He intensities are smaller than those expected from the lower concentration range. This non‐linearity may reflect the limit of retention of He in the Si lattice, because He is chemically inert. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AIEgens‐Functionalized Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Materials: Fabrications and Applications
Authors: Li Dongdong , Yu Jihong
Published: August 2016

Inorganic materials functionalized with organic fluorescent molecules combine advantages of them both, showing potential applications in biomedicine, chemosensors, light‐emitting, and so on. However, when more traditional organic dyes are doped into the inorganic materials, the emission of resulting hybrid materials may be quenched, which is not conducive to the efficiency and sensitivity of detection. In contrast to the aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) system, the aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) with high solid quantum efficiency, offer new potential for developing highly efficient inorganic‐organic hybrid luminescent materials. So far, many AIEgens have been incorporated into inorganic materials through either physical doping caused by aggregation induced emission (AIE) or chemical bonding (e.g., covalent bonding, ionic bonding, and coordination bonding) caused by bonding induced emission (BIE) strategy. The hybrid materials exhibit excellent photoactive properties due to the intramolecular motion of AIEgens is restricted by inorganic matrix. Recent advances in the fabrication of AIEgens‐functionalized inorganic‐organic hybrid materials and their applications in biomedicine, chemical sensing, and solid‐state light emitting are presented.
Bio‐Inspired Design and Fabrication of Micro/Nano‐Brush Dual Structural Surfaces for Switchable Oil Adhesion and Antifouling
Authors: Du Tao , Ma Shuanhong , Pei Xiaowei , Wang Shutao , Zhou Feng
Published: August 2016

The underwater superoleophobic surfaces play a significant role in anti‐oil contamination, marine antifouling, etc. Inspired by the Gecko's feet and its self‐cleaning property, a hierarchical structure composed of poly (acrylic acid) gel micro‐brushes is designed by the liquid‐infused method. This surface exhibits underwater superoleophobicity with very low oil adhesion. It is then modified with stimuli‐responsive polymer nano‐brushes via surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization from the embedded initiator. The micro/nano‐brush dual structural surfaces can switch the underwater oil adhesion between low and high while keeping the superoleophobicity. The antifouling properties against algae attachment under different mediums are also investigated to show a strong link between oleophobicity and antibiofouling property. The model surface will be very useful in directing the design of marine self‐cleaning coatings to both living and non‐living species.
Do Peer Reviews Help Improve Student Writing Abilities in an EFL High School Classroom?
Authors: Kurihara Noriko
Published: August 2016

Several studies have reported the benefits of peer reviews in English as a second language (ESL) and English as a foreign language (EFL) writing classrooms. However, there has been little empirical research on whether such peer reviews improve students’ writing abilities. The current study investigated the effects of peer review on the development of writing abilities. An experimental group conducted peer reviews in addition to writing practice with teacher feedback, and a control group only practiced writing and received teacher feedback. The study was conducted over a 12‐week period in a high school EFL classroom. At the beginning and end of the research, pre‐ and post‐essay tests were administered to determine whether the peer reviews had had a positive effect on the development of student writing abilities. In addition, the researcher conducted a delayed posttest to examine whether the improvements in writing skills were retained. She also used questionnaires and interviews at the end of the research to examine the relationship between the test results and the peer review feedback. The findings show that peer reviews contributed to an improvement in student writing abilities, which included improvements that were retained after the peer review practice ended.
“So What's the Difference?” Talking About Race With Refugee Children in the English Language Learner Classroom
Authors: Roy Laura
Published: August 2016

This study examines how an English language learner (ELL) educator negotiated conversations about the intersectional nature of race in an elementaryELLclassroom using a critical literacy framework. Few studies examine the ways in which teachers of young children negotiate conversations about the complexities of race with their students. Even fewer address the way in which African refugee children can explore the contested nature of racial labeling as a part of language instruction in the classroom. The students in this study experienced a history of persecution and displacement in Somalia in the 1990s. Their experiences in Somalia, relocation to refugee camps in Kenya, and finally relocation to the United States exposed their families to the very real impact of static and stereotypical notions of race. Through the lens of critical literacy, classroom interactions and activities are analyzed through one cycle of literacy events in anELLclassroom. Findings show thatELLeducators can explore the contested nature of racial identities in ways that support and enhance language instruction. Findings also highlight the complexities of immigrant and refugee identity positions, even among members of the same group.