bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crizotinib induces apoptosis and gene expression changes in ALK+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma cell lines; brentuximab synergizes and doxorubicin antagonizes
Authors: Hudson Sandra , Wang Dongliang , Middleton Frank , Nevaldine Barbara H. , Naous Rana , Hutchison Robert E.
Published: April 2018

Background

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) shows 60–70% event free survival with standard treatments. Targeted therapies are being tested for increased benefit and/or reduced toxicity, but interactions with standard agents are not well known.

Methods

We exposed four ALCL cell lines to two targeted agents, crizotinib and brentuximab vedotin, and to two standard agents, doxorubicin and vinblastine. For each agent and combination, we measured apoptosis and expression of approximately 300 previously annotated genes of interest using targeted RNA‐sequencing. An aurora kinase inhibitor, alisertib, was similarly tested for gene expression effects.

Results

Only crizotinib, alone or in combination, showed significant effects (adjusted P < 0.05) on expression and apoptosis. One hundred and nine of 277 gene expressions showed crizotinib‐associated differential expression, mostly downregulation, 62 associated with apoptosis, and 28 associated with both crizotinib and apoptosis. Doxorubicin was antagonistic with crizotinib on gene expression and apoptosis. Brentuximab was synergistic with crizotinib in apoptosis, and not antagonistic in gene expression. Vinblastine also appeared synergistic with crizotinib but did not achieve statistical significance. Alisertib did not show significant expression changes.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that crizotinib induces apoptosis through orderly changes in cell signaling associated with ALK inhibition. Expression effects of crizotinib and associated apoptosis are antagonized by doxorubicin, but apoptosis is synergized by brentuximab vedotin and possibly vinblastine. These findings suggest that concurrent use of crizotinib and doxorubicin may be counterproductive, while the pairing of crizotinib with brentuximab (or vinblastine) may increase efficacy. Alisertib did not induce expression changes at cytotoxic dosage.
Assessment of end‐of‐treatment transition needs for pediatric cancer and hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients and their families
Authors: Karst Jeffrey S. , Hoag Jennifer A. , Chan Sherilynn F. , Schmidt Debra J. , Anderson Lynnette J. , Englebert Nicole E. , Igler Eva C. , Bingen Kristin M.
Published: April 2018

Background/Objectives

The transition off active treatment is a time of significant stress for pediatric cancer patients and families. Providing information and support at this time is among the new psychosocial standards of care in pediatric oncology. This study sought to explore patient and family needs and concerns at the end of their active cancer treatment.

Design/Methods

Forty‐nine caregiver–child dyads completed semi‐structured interviews and surveys 1–2 months before ending treatment, and again 3–7 months after treatment concluded.

Results

Patients and caregivers reported a moderate level of understanding of follow‐up care needs, late effects, and perceived preparation. Altogether, child, adolescent, and young adult cancer patients and parents identified similar priorities for information needed during the transition off active treatment. The most essential pieces of information desired by patients and families across time points included reviews of late effects, schedules for follow‐up care, health and physical restrictions, communication with the patient's primary care provider, and provision of a treatment summary. At Time 2, patients and families reported a greater retrospective desire for emotional health resources. Most patients and caregivers wanted information from a variety of sources, but the desired timing to receive this information varied and was dependent on disease group.

Conclusions

There are many essential components to end‐of‐treatment care that are not consistently provided to pediatric cancer patients and families. Formalized programs offering education and support should be provided by multidisciplinary teams prior to the end of active treatment.
Treatment of refractory germ cell tumors in children with paclitaxel, ifosfamide, and carboplatin: A report from the Children's Oncology Group AGCT0521 study
Authors: Pashankar Farzana , Frazier A. Lindsay , Krailo Mark , Xia Caihong , Pappo Alberto S. , Malogolowkin Marcio , Olson Thomas A , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos
Published: April 2018

Background

Paclitaxel, ifosfamide, cisplatin (TIP) is commonly used as salvage for malignant germ cell tumors (MGCT) in adults; however, additional administration of cisplatin at a young age could cause significant short‐ and long‐term toxicities in a group of patients with high expected salvage. Because carboplatin has been shown to be effective in pediatric MGCT with less toxicity, the TIP regimen was modified by substituting carboplatin for cisplatin.

Methods

The Children's Oncology Group conducted a phase II trial between November 2007 and June 2011 evaluating “TIC” (paclitaxel 135 mg/m2/day Day 1, ifosfamide 1,800 mg/m2/dose Days 1–5 and carboplatin with AUC 6.5 Day 1) in children < 21 years with relapsed MGCT. The endpoint of the trial was response after two cycles, incorporating RECIST response and marker decline.

Results

Twenty patients (12 male, median age 13.5 years) were enrolled. Seventeen patients had tumor markers ≥10 times above normal. After two cycles, by RECIST criteria, 8 patients achieved a partial response (response rate 40%), 10 had stable disease, and 2 had progressive disease. A ≥ 1 log reduction was achieved in 10/17 patients (58.8%) with elevated markers. By study defined criteria, combining response by RECIST and marker decline, the response rate was 44%.

Conclusion

TIC is active in relapsed pediatric MGCT and should be considered for salvage therapy in children. In adolescents and older adults with relapse MGCT, TIP or high‐dose chemotherapy with stem cell remain the standard therapy.
Solid pseudopapillary and malignant pancreatic tumors in childhood: A systematic review and evidence quality assessment
Authors: Mylonas Konstantinos S. , Doulamis Ilias P. , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Nasioudis Dimitrios , Schizas Dimitrios , Masiakos Peter T. , Kelleher Cassandra M.
Published: April 2018

A systematic review of 32 studies reporting on 489 children with pancreatic tumors was performed. The most prevalent histologic subtype was solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) (61.3%). Pancreaticoduodenectomy was the most commonly performed operation (48%). Neoadjuvant chemo/radiotherapy was utilized in 3.9, 36.2, 25, and 27.8% of patients with SPTs, pancreatoblastomas (PBLs), neuroendocrine tumors, and exocrine carcinomas, respectively. Adjuvant chemotherapy (75.6%) and radiation (34%) were most commonly utilized in PBLs. All‐cause mortality was highest in exocrine carcinomas (50%). Overall, 98.8% of patients with SPTs survived. PBL exhibited the highest recurrence rate (14.7%) within a mean of 23.5 months.
Comparative study of volcanic particle and calcium carbonate filler materials in HDPE for thermal and mechanical properties
Authors: Çoban Onur , Bora Mustafa Özgür , Kutluk Togayhan
Published: April 2018

Usage potential of volcanic particles (VPs) in high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composites against traditional calcium carbonate (CaCO3) was investigated for thermal and mechanical properties. HDPE composites were prepared by melt compounding and injection molding processes with various filler contents such as 6, 12, 18, and 24 wt%. Thermal properties such as melting behavior and thermal expansion behavior were analyzed by differential scanning calorimeter and dilatometry machine; respectively. In addition, mechanical properties such as tensile modulus, tensile strength and elongation at break parameters were investigated with tensile tests. After the experimental results it was shown that the use of VPs had a much larger effect in improving mechanical properties and in reducing coefficient of thermal expansion values of HDPE composites, compared with the use of CaCO3 particles. It was determined that maximum levels of thermal properties which were obtained with higher contents of CaCO3 were sufficiently achieved with lower contents of VPs such as 6 wt%. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1900–E1907, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Principals’ emotional support and teachers’ emotional reframing: The mediating role of principals’ supportive communication strategies
Authors: Berkovich Izhak , Eyal Ori
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this research is to achieve a deeper understanding of emotional support in principal–teacher relations. The study aims to shed light on the role of principals’ supportive communication strategies in providing emotional support to teachers, and on the proximal affective outcome of such support. The study used quantitative data obtained from 190 schoolteachers to explore the effect of principals’ emotional support on teachers’ emotional reframing through principals’ supportive communication strategies (empathic listening and empowering and normalizing messages). The analysis indicated an indirect effect of principals’ emotional support on teachers’ emotional reframing through principals’ supportive communication strategies. The results and their implications are discussed.
Unveiling Human Cardiac Fibroblast Membrane Proteome
Authors: Sebastião Maria João , Pereira Rute , Serra Margarida , Gomes‐Alves Patrícia , Alves Paula Marques
Published: April 2018

Cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) are one of the main cell populations in the heart and play important roles in tissue homeostasis and myocardial fibrosis. The study of these cells has been hampered by the lack of reliable membrane markers: none of the antigens currently used for characterization and isolation of CFs is unique for this cell type. This issue has also raised doubts regarding a distinct identity of cardiac fibroblasts when compared to other myocardium cell populations with similar morphologies. In this work, we report a comprehensive description and functional analysis of human CFs (hCFs) membraneenriched fraction proteome by advanced mass spectrometry–based proteomic tools. A total number of 1478 proteins were identified, including 774 membrane proteins (52%). We also report the identification of a subset of 30 membrane proteins that in this workflow were only identified in hCFs by comparison with the membrane‐enriched proteome lists of human cardiac stem cells, human mesenchymal stem cells, and human dermal fibroblasts. The data reported in this work are a valuable source of information for further studies aiming at defining a membrane molecular signature of human cardiac fibroblasts (hCFs), and a step forward in research regarding membrane proteins with key roles in hCF function in homeostasis and disease.
Optomechanically Assisted Assembly of Surface‐Functionalized Zeolite‐L‐Based Hybrid Soft Matter
Authors: Barroso Álvaro , Buscher Tim , Ahlers Katrin , Studer Armido , Denz Cornelia
Published: April 2018

Nanoporous particles are particularly interesting for the assembly of functional nano‐ and microsystems because they provide hierarchical supramolecular organization of a large variety of guest molecules. In this work, arbitrary nanoarchitectures consisting of nanoporous zeolite‐L crystals are assembled by combining holographic optical tweezers (HOT) with polymer brush functionalized particles to overcome the limitations of 1D and restricted self‐assembly of zeolite‐L crystals. Readily prepared and functionalized polymer shells allow for controlled, instant, and highly efficient particle–particle and particle–surface adhesion without the need for an external trigger. In contrast to earlier studies, these assemblies remain permanently stable after release out of the HOT system. This novel strategy can be used to fabricate either motile units or locally grounded 1D, 2D, and 3D microconstructions, which can be further utilized as microtools in microfluidic and nanophotonic applications.
Lung ultrasound compared to chest X‐ray for diagnosis of pediatric pneumonia: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Balk Daniel S. , Lee Christine , Schafer Jesse , Welwarth Jeremy , Hardin John , Novack Victor , Yarza Shaked , Hoffmann Beatrice
Published: April 2018

Objective

Although a clinical diagnosis, the standard initial imaging modality for patients with concern for pediatric community acquired pneumonia (pCAP) is a chest x‐ray (CXR), which has a relatively high false negative rate, exposes patients to ionizing radiation, and may not be available in resource limited settings. The primary objective of this meta‐analysis is to evaluate the accuracy of lung ultrasound (LUS) compared to CXR for the diagnosis of pCAP.

Methods

Data were collected via a systematic review of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science with dates up to August 2017. Keywords and search terms were generated for pneumonia, lung ultrasound, and pediatric population. Two independent investigators screened abstracts for inclusion. PRISMA was used for selecting appropriate studies. QUADAS was applied to these studies to assess quality for inclusion into the meta‐analysis. We collected data from included studies and calculated sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values of CXR and LUS for the diagnosis of pCAP.

Results

Twelve studies including 1510 patients were selected for data extraction. LUS had a sensitivity of 95.5% (93.6‐97.1) and specificity of 95.3% (91.1‐98.3). CXR had a sensitivity of 86.8% (83.3‐90.0) and specificity of 98.2% (95.7‐99.6). Variations between the studies included ultrasound findings diagnostic of pneumonia, study setting (inpatient vs emergency department) and inclusion of CXR in the reference standard for pneumonia.

Conclusions

In our meta‐analysis, lung ultrasound had significantly better sensitivity with similar specificity when compared to chest x‐ray for the diagnosis of pediatric community acquired pneumonia.
Gaussia princeps luciferase: a bioluminescent substrate for oxidative protein folding
Authors: Yu Tiantian , Laird Joanna R. , Prescher Jennifer A. , Thorpe Colin
Published: April 2018

Gaussia princeps luciferase (GLuc) generates an intense burst of blue light when exposed to coelenterazine in the absence of ATP. Here we show that this 5‐disulfide containing enzyme can be used as a facile and convenient substrate for studies of oxidative protein folding. Reduced GLuc (rGLuc), with 10 free cysteine residues, is completely inactive as a luciferase but >60% bioluminescence activity, compared to controls, can be recovered using a range of oxidizing regimens in the absence of the exogenous shuffling activity of protein disulfide isomerase (PDI). The sulfhydryl oxidase QSOX1 can be assayed using rGLuc in a simple bioluminescence plate reader format. Similarly, low concentrations of rGLuc can be oxidized by millimolar levels of dehydroascorbate, hydrogen peroxide or much lower concentrations of sodium tetrathionate. The oxidative refolding of rGLuc in the presence of a range of glutathione redox buffers is only marginally accelerated by micromolar levels of PDI. This modest rate enhancement probably results from a relatively simple disulfide connectivity in native GLuc; reflecting two homologous domains each carrying two disulfide bonds with a single interdomain disulfide. When GLuc is reoxidized under denaturing conditions the resulting scrambled protein (sGLuc) can be used in a sensitive bioluminescence assay for reduced PDI in the absence of added exogenous thiols. Finally, the general facility by which rGLuc can recover bioluminescent activity in vitro provides a sensitive method for the assessment of inhibitors of oxidative protein folding.
Mimicking a p53‐MDM2 interaction based on a stable immunoglobulin‐like domain scaffold
Authors: Jimenez‐Sandoval Pedro , Madrigal‐Carrillo Ezequiel A. , Santamaría‐Suárez Hugo A. , Maturana Daniel , Rentería‐González Itzel , Benitez‐Cardoza Claudia G. , Torres‐Larios Alfredo , Brieba Luis G.
Published: April 2018

Antibodies recognize protein targets with great affinity and specificity. However, posttranslational modifications and the presence of intrinsic disulfide‐bonds pose difficulties for their industrial use. The immunoglobulin fold is one of the most ubiquitous folds in nature and it is found in many proteins besides antibodies. An example of a protein family with an immunoglobulin‐like fold is the Cysteine Protease Inhibitors (ICP) family I42 of the MEROPs database for protease and protease inhibitors. Members of this protein family are thermostable and do not present internal disulfide bonds. Crystal structures of several ICPs indicate that they resemble the Ig‐like domain of the human T cell co‐receptor CD8α As ICPs present 2 flexible recognition loops that vary accordingly to their targeted protease, we hypothesize that members of this protein family would be ideal to design peptide aptamers that mimic protein‐protein interactions. Herein, we use an ICP variant from Entamoeba histolytica (EhICP1) to mimic the interaction between p53 and MDM2. We found that a 13 amino‐acid peptide derived from p53 can be introduced in 2 variable loops (DE, FG) but not the third (BC). Chimeric EhICP1‐p53 form a stable complex with MDM2 at a micromolar range. Crystal structure of the EhICP1‐p53(FG)‐loop variant in complex with MDM2 reveals a swapping subdomain between 2 chimeric molecules, however, the p53 peptide interacts with MDM2 as in previous crystal structures. The structural details of the EhICP1‐p53(FG) interaction with MDM2 resemble the interaction between an antibody and MDM2.
Characterization of Interaction between Fe‐Infiltrates and LSM Backbone in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Yu Yang , Ohodnicki Paul , Abernathy Harry , Fan Yueying , Kalapos Thomas , Hackett Gregory
Published: April 2018

In this paper, detailed materials characterization analyses on the interaction between FeOx nanoparticles infiltrated onto a La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 (LSM) backbone cathode in a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) are reported. The infiltration process leads to an increase of 3.4% in cell performance. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well as energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) are utilized to perform a comprehensive examination of the microstructure and chemical properties at the interface of the infiltrate and backbone materials. Mn from the LSM backbone diffuses into the FeOx infiltrate and forms a Fe‐Mn‐O spinel. A small amount of Fe also diffuses into the LSM backbone, which could partially be responsible for the enhanced performance of the cell. The valence state of Mn increases from the surface of the Fe‐Mn‐O particle into bulk LSM, with the highest value being at the interface of the Fe‐Mn‐O/LSM backbone. Possible mechanisms are discussed for the change in Mn valence state within the LSM phase. Trace amounts of Mn and La are found in the YSZ phase, as a result of interdiffusion between LSM and YSZ.
Review and perspectives on the applications of mass spectrometry imaging under ambient conditions
Authors: Perez Consuelo J. , Bagga Aafreen K. , Prova Shamina S. , Yousefi Taemeh Maryam , Ifa Demian R.
Published: April 2018

Ambient mass spectrometry (AMS)‐based techniques are performed under ambient conditions in which the ionization and desorption occur in the open environment allowing the direct analysis of molecules with minimal or no sample preparation. A selected group of AMS techniques demonstrate imaging capabilities that can provide information about the localization of molecules on complex sample surfaces such as biological tissues. 2D, 3D, and multimodal imaging have unlocked an array of applications to systematically address complex problems in many areas of research such as drug monitoring, natural products, forensics, and cancer diagnostics. In the present review, we summarize recent advances in the field with respect to the implementation of new ambient ionization techniques and current applications in the last 5 years. In more detail, we mainly focus on imaging applications in topics related to animal whole bodies and tissues, single cells, cancer diagnostics and biomarkers, microbial cultures and co‐cultures, plant and natural product metabolomics, and forensic applications. Finally, we discuss new areas of research, future perspectives, and the overall direction that the field may take in the years to come.
Spatial and trophic preferences of jumbo squid Dosidicus gigas (D'Orbigny, 1835) in the central Gulf of California: ecological inferences using stable isotopes
Authors: Trasviña‐Carrillo L.D. , Hernández‐Herrera A. , Torres‐Rojas Y.E. , Galván‐Magaña F. , Sánchez‐González A. , Aguíñiga‐García S.
Published: April 2018

Rationale

The jumbo squid Dosidicus gigas is a fishery resource of considerable economic and ecological importance in the Mexican Pacific. Studies on its habitat preferences are needed to understand recent fluctuations in the abundance and availability of the species. Stable isotope analysis allows us to infer ecological aspects such as spatial distribution and trophic preferences.

Methods

We used an isotope ratio mass spectrometer, automated for carbonate analysis, and coupled to an elemental analyzer, to determine the isotopic composition of statoliths (δ18O and δ13C values) and beaks (δ13C and δ15N values) from 219 individuals caught over two fishing seasons (2007 and 2009) off the coast of Santa Rosalía, in the central Gulf of California. We used these isotopic ratios to assess variation in spatial and trophic preferences by sex, size, and fishing season.

Results

In the 2009 group, we observed significant differences in statolith δ13C values and beak δ13C and δ15N values between males and females. Between size groups, we observed significant differences in statolith δ18O and δ13C values in 2007 and in beak δ13C and δ15N values during both seasons. Both seasons were characterized by high overlap in δ18O and δ13C values between sexes and in 2009 between size groups. We observed low trophic overlap between sexes in 2009 and between size groups during both seasons.

Conclusions

The isotopic ratios from statoliths and beaks indicate that D. gigas has changed its spatial and trophic preferences, a shift that is probably related to changes in the species' diet. This intraspecific variation in preferences could be related to characteristics such as size, which may influence squid distribution preferences.
Marriage between credit cards and the Internet: Buying is just a click away!
Authors: Basnet Hem C. , Donou‐Adonsou Ficawoyi
Published: April 2018

This paper examines whether Internet access positively affects credit card balances. To that end, we compare the 2010 and 2013 Surveys of Consumer Finances, analyze the consistency of the results over time, and provide the rationale for any resulting differences. Using the censored techniques, our results indicate that Internet access has a positive effect on credit card balances, which suggests that consumers with Internet access are prone to higher balances compared to those without. The probability of carrying positive balances was larger in 2010 compared to 2013. Overall, the results suggest that, while the financial crisis might have contributed to higher balances in 2010, the economic recovery afterward seems to have eased the burden of credit card debt.
RNA epitranscriptomics: Regulation of infection of RNA and DNA viruses by N6‐methyladenosine (m6A)
Authors: Tan Brandon , Gao Shou‐Jiang
Published: April 2018

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) was discovered 4 decades ago. However, the functions of m6A and the cellular machinery that regulates its changes have just been revealed in the last few years. m6A is an abundant internal mRNA modification on cellular RNA and is implicated in diverse cellular functions. Recent works have demonstrated the presence of m6A in the genomes of RNA viruses and transcripts of a DNA virus with either a proviral or antiviral role. Here, we first summarize what is known about the m6A “writers,” “erasers,” “readers,” and “antireaders” as well as the role of m6A in mRNA metabolism. We then review how the replications of numerous viruses are enhanced and restricted by m6A with emphasis on the oncogenic DNA virus, Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV), whose m6A epitranscriptome was recently mapped. In the context of KSHV, m6A and the reader protein YTHDF2 acts as an antiviral mechanism during viral lytic replication. During viral latency, KSHV alters m6A on genes that are implicated in cellular transformation and viral latency. Lastly, we discuss future studies that are important to further delineate the functions of m6A in KSHV latent and lytic replication and KSHV‐induced oncogenesis.
New criteria for stochastic suppression and stabilization of hybrid functional differential systems
Authors: Zhu Song , Shi Peng , Lim Cheng‐Chew
Published: April 2018

This paper establishes new criteria for stochastic suppression and stabilization of hybrid functional differential systems with general 1‐sided polynomial growth condition. For an unstable nonlinear hybrid functional differential system with general 1‐sided polynomial growth condition, 2 independent Brownian noise processes are used to perturb the system into the stochastic hybrid differential system. Theoretical analysis shows that one of the nonlinear diffusion terms may suppress the explosive solution of deterministic system, and the other one can make the perturbed hybrid system almost surely stable with general decay rate.
Energy and cost‐aware virtual machine consolidation in cloud computing
Authors: Yousefipour Amin , Rahmani Amir Masoud , Jahanshahi Mohsen
Published: April 2018

Cloud computing has become an essential part of the computational world, offering a variety of server capabilities as scalable virtualized services. Big data centers that deliver cloud computing services contain thousands of computational nodes that consume a significant amount of energy. By introducing the virtual machine (VM), virtualization technology is trying to overcome this problem. One impressive technique for minimizing the total number of active physical servers that lead to improved energy consumption is VM consolidation. To optimize the consolidation process, effective VM placement can be used. In this paper, we first present a mathematical model aimed at reducing power consumption and costs by employing an effective VM consolidation in the cloud data center. Subsequently, we propose a genetic algorithm–based meta‐heuristic algorithm, namely, energy and cost‐aware VM consolidation for resolving the problem. Finally, we compare our proposed model with the well‐known first fit, first fit decreasing, and permutation pack algorithms. The experimental results show that our proposed model reduced power consumption and costs when compared with the three demonstrated algorithms.
Security and privacy on physical layer for wireless sensing: A survey
Authors: Chen Lei
Published: April 2018

Wireless sensing is an emerging technology which leverages inexpensive wireless devices to detect the physical environments. Due to the unique characteristic wireless signal, it can be applied in more special situations such as nonline‐of‐sight environment. Compared with other current detection technologies, it possess the merits of low power and convenient. In addition, it can cover wider detection area. In this paper, we survey the current applications of wireless signal sensing applying to security and privacy on physical layer. The applications are divided into 4 different kinds according to their functions. We also discuss the research challenges of those applications. In addition, we summarize the future work of security and privacy applications of wireless sensing.
Tomographical Study of the Effect of Graphite on Properties of Cast Iron
Authors: Liu Yangzhen , Xing Jiandong , Li Yefei , Wang Shaogang , Tao Dong
Published: April 2018

Two specimens of cast iron, namely A1 and A2, the size, shape, and interconnectivity of graphite are analyzed using X–ray tomography. The results reveal that the morphology of vermicular graphite is a coral–tree–like. The interconnectivity of A2 specimen is better than A1 specimen. The results also demonstrate that the thermal conductivity of A2 specimen is larger than A1 specimen, whereas the tensile strength of A2 specimen is smaller than A1 specimen. With an increase in temperature, the thermal conductivity of both A1 and A2 specimen increases initially, and then decreases, whereas the tensile strength decreases slightly at first, and then decreases rapidly. Finally, the fracture surfaces of both A1 and A2 specimen are studied.
Advancing catalytic fast pyrolysis through integrated multiscale modeling and experimentation: Challenges, progress, and perspectives
Authors: Ciesielski Peter N. , Pecha M. Brennan , Bharadwaj Vivek S. , Mukarakate Calvin , Leong G. Jeremy , Kappes Branden , Crowley Michael F. , Kim Seonah , Foust Thomas D. , Nimlos Mark R.
Published: April 2018

Catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) is a conversion process that integrates rapid thermochemical depolymerization of solid feedstocks with catalytic transformation to yield small molecules for fuel and chemical products. This process is well‐suited for the conversion of nonfossil feedstocks such as biomass and waste plastics, and thereby holds great potential for the production of renewable commodities. In spite of many technological developments in various aspects of CFP achieved over decades of research, this technology has yet to attain commercial success for the production of fuels and chemicals from renewable feedstocks. Effective CFP processes require careful coordination of chemical and physical phenomena that span very large length and time scales. A broad spectrum of scientific progress in both pyrolysis and catalytic upgrading has provided the foundation for successful deployment of CFP, although additional progress in process‐scale integration is yet required for commercial realization. Modeling and simulation tools provide an important framework wherein the CFP technologies by be better understood and evaluated from a holistic perspective. Here we provide a detailed description of the multiscale phenomena underlying CFP, describe challenges and associated technical progress, and suggest strategies for an integrated approach to advance this technology toward commercialization.

This article is categorized under:

Bioenergy > Systems and Infrastructure

Bioenergy > Science and Materials
Pulsatile flow measurements and wall stress distribution in a patient specific abdominal aortic aneurysm phantom
Authors: Ahamed T. , Peattie R. A. , Dorfmann L. , Cherry Kemmerling E. M.
Published: April 2018

In this study, we develop a physiologic internal pressure and wall stress analysis procedure and apply it to a patient‐specific abdominal aortic aneurysm model. Time‐dependent pressure loading of the inner vessel wall was experimentally measured in a 3D printed aneurysm phantom. The results were used as boundary conditions for finite element calculations of von Mises stresses throughout the AAA model over the cardiac cycle. A nonlinear hyperelastic constitutive law with parameters based on biaxial stress‐deformation data from aneurysmal tissue samples was used to describe the mechanical behavior of the aneurysm wall. The internal pressure was found to be fairly spatially uniform (within 10%) over most of the cardiac cycle, but average internal pressure varied by more than a factor of two between systole and diastole. The aneurysm wall stress was highly spatially nonuniform. The highest value of von Mises stress was localized in a small area within the aneurysm bulge and remained in the same place throughout the cardiac cycle, suggesting that this area was the most likely point of rupture. Large variations in wall stress over the cardiac cycle suggest calculations that assume steady flow are a poor approximation for physiological stresses.
Microeconomic Benefit of Corneal Transplantation in a Developing Country via Public–Private Partnership Model
Authors: Jindal Rahul M. , Waller Stephen G. , Sugrim Shailendra , Pasternak Jan , Pasternak Joseph
Published: April 2018

Background

We measured the microeconomic benefit, QOL, DALYs averted and clinical outcomes of corneal transplant surgery via a public–private partnership in Guyana. Corneas were obtained, ex gratia, from US eye banks, and the work was done at no cost to the patient or the Governments of USA or Guyana.

Methods

We obtained qualitative data using a “semi‐structured interview technique” to question 60 recent recipients of corneal transplants in Guyana. Our questions covered schooling in children, training for job, and type and income of job, both before and after surgery. We also discussed improvement in family income and quality of life (QOL) using a Likert scale of 1 lowest to 5 highest.

Results

Our data came from five humanitarian missions from July 2014 to July 2017. All school‐going children (n = 6) were able to return to school and participate in educational activities. Young adults (n = 13), were able to acquire new jobs (50%) or training positions (50%) with higher income. Patients in the middle‐age adult group (n = 20) re‐acquired their employment positions (25%) or found new work (75%). Elderly patients (n = 21) after transplant were able to perform odd jobs to increase the family income. A consistent theme across all age groups was a dramatic improvement in the QOL. Two hundred and sixty DALYs (4.3 per patient) were averted. In this cohort of 62 surgery cases, mean preoperative visual acuity was 0.03 and postoperative mean visual acuity was 0.20.

Conclusions

We have shown microeconomic benefits and improved QOL of corneal transplantation in a low‐income country.
Multiple Imputation for Bounded Variables
Authors: Geraci Marco , McLain Alexander
Published: April 2018

Missing data are a common issue in statistical analyses. Multiple imputation is a technique that has been applied in countless research studies and has a strong theoretical basis. Most of the statistical literature on multiple imputation has focused on unbounded continuous variables, with mostly ad hoc remedies for variables with bounded support. These approaches can be unsatisfactory when applied to bounded variables as they can produce misleading inferences. In this paper, we propose a flexible quantile-based imputation model suitable for distributions defined over singly or doubly bounded intervals. Proper support of the imputed values is ensured by applying a family of transformations with singly or doubly bounded range. Simulation studies demonstrate that our method is able to deal with skewness, bimodality, and heteroscedasticity and has superior properties as compared to competing approaches, such as log-normal imputation and predictive mean matching. We demonstrate the application of the proposed imputation procedure by analysing data on mathematical development scores in children from the Millennium Cohort Study, UK. We also show a specific advantage of our methods using a small psychiatric dataset. Our methods are relevant in a number of fields, including education and psychology.
Ionic liquids: a brief history
Authors: Welton Tom
Published: April 2018

There is no doubt that ionic liquids have become a major subject of study for modern chemistry. We have become used to ever more publications in the field each year, although there is some evidence that this is beginning to plateau at approximately 3500 papers each year. They have been the subject of several major reviews and books, dealing with different applications and aspects of their behaviours. In this article, I will show a little of how interest in ionic liquids grew and developed.
Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents in Kidney Disease: Comprehensive Review and Clinical Practice Guideline Issued by the Canadian Association of Radiologists
Authors: Schieda Nicola , Blaichman Jason I. , Costa Andreu F. , Glikstein Rafael , Hurrell Casey , James Matthew , Jabehdar Maralani Pejman , Shabana Wael , Tang An , Tsampalieros Anne , van der Pol Christian , Hiremath Swapnil
Published: April 2018

Use of gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) in renal impairment is controversial, with physician and patient apprehension in acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and dialysis because of concerns regarding nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). The position that GBCAs are absolutely contraindicated in AKI, CKD stage 4 or 5 (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <30 mL/min/1.73 m2) and dialysis-dependent patients is outdated, and may limit access to clinically necessary contrast-enhanced MRI examinations. Following a comprehensive review of the literature and reported NSF cases to date, a committee of radiologists and nephrologists developed clinical practice guidelines to assist physicians in making decisions regarding GBCA administrations. In patients with mild-to-moderate CKD (eGFR ≥30 and <60 mL/min/1.73 m2), administration of standard doses of GBCA is safe and no additional precautions are necessary. In patients with AKI, with severe CKD (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2), or on dialysis, administration of GBCAs should be considered individually and alternative imaging modalities utilized whenever possible. If GBCAs are necessary, newer GBCAs may be administered with patient consent obtained by a physician (or their delegate), citing an exceedingly low risk (much less than 1%) of developing NSF. Standard GBCA dosing should be used; half or quarter dosing is not recommended and repeat injections should be avoided. Dialysis-dependent patients should receive dialysis; however, initiating dialysis or switching from peritoneal to hemodialysis to reduce the risk of NSF is unproven. Use of a macrocyclic ionic instead of macrocyclic nonionic GBCA or macrocyclic instead of newer linear GBCA to further prevent NSF is unproven. Gadopentetate dimeglumine, gadodiamide, and gadoversetamide remain absolutely contraindicated in patients with AKI, with stage 4 or 5 CKD, or on dialysis. The panel agreed that screening for renal disease is important but less critical when using macrocyclic and newer linear GBCAs. Monitoring for and reporting of potential cases of NSF in patients with AKI or CKD who have received GBCAs is recommended.
Endoclip Magnetic Resonance Imaging Screening: A Local Practice Review
Authors: Accorsi Fabio , Lalonde Alain , Leswick David A.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Not all endoscopically placed clips (endoclips) are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible. At many institutions, endoclip screening is part of the pre-MRI screening process. Our objective is to determine the contribution of each step of this endoclip screening protocol in determining a patient's endoclip status at our institution.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients' endoscopic histories on general MRI screening forms for patients scanned during a 40-day period was performed to assess the percentage of patients that require endoclip screening at our institution. Following this, a prospective evaluation of 614 patients' endoclip screening determined the percentage of these patients ultimately exposed to each step in the protocol (exposure), and the percentage of patients whose endoclip status was determined with reasonable certainty by each step (determination).

Results

Exposure and determination values for each step were calculated as follows (exposure, determination): verbal interview (100%, 86%), review of past available imaging (14%, 36%), review of endoscopy report (9%, 57%), and new abdominal radiograph (4%, 96%), or CT (0.2%, 100%) for evaluation of potential endoclips. Only 1 patient did not receive MRI because of screening (in situ gastrointestinal endoclip identified).

Conclusions

Verbal interview is invaluable to endoclip screening, clearing 86% of patients with minimal monetary and time investment. Conversely, the limited availability of endoscopy reports and relevant past imaging somewhat restricts the determination rates of these. New imaging (radiograph or computed tomography) is required <5% of the time, and although costly and associated with patient irradiation, has excellent determination rates (above 96%) when needed.
Mammography Clinical Image Quality and the False Positive Rate in a Canadian Breast Cancer Screening Program
Authors: Guertin Marie-Hélène , Théberge Isabelle , Zomahoun Hervé Tchala Vignon , Dufresne Michel-Pierre , Pelletier Éric , Brisson Jacques
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The study sought to determine if mammography quality is associated with the false positive (FP) rate in the Quebec breast cancer screening program in 2004 and 2005.

Methods

Mammography quality of a random sample of screen-film mammograms was evaluated by an expert radiologist following the criteria of the Canadian Association of Radiologists. For each screening examination, scores ranging from 1 (poor quality) to 5 (excellent quality) were attributed for positioning, compression, contrast, exposure level, sharpness, and artifacts. A final overall quality score (lower or higher) was also given. Poisson regression models with robust estimation of variance and adjusted for potential confounding factors were used to assess associations of mammography quality with the FP rate.

Results

Among 1,209 women without cancer, there were 104 (8.6%) FPs. Lower overall mammography quality is associated with an increase in the FP rate (risk ratio [RR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-2.1; P = .07) but this increase was not statistically significant. Artifacts were associated with an increase in the FP rate (RR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.3-3.3; P = .01) whereas lower quality of exposure level was related to a reduction of the FP rate (RR, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.1-1.0; P = .01). Lower quality scores for all other quality attributes were related to a nonstatistically significant increase in the FP rate of 10%-30%.

Conclusions

Artifacts can have a substantial effect on the FP rate. The effect of overall mammography quality on the FP rate may also be substantial and needs to be clarified.
Sexual Health During Postgraduate Training—European Survey Across Medical Specialties
Authors: Kristufkova Alexandra , Pinto Da Costa Mariana , Mintziori Gesthimani , Vásquez Juan Luis , Aabakke Anna J.M. , Fode Mikkel
Published: April 2018

Background

Sexual health problems are common. Therefore, training in sexual health is relevant for the clinical practice of trainees and early-career specialists in several specialties who deal with patients with sexual health problems. However, little is known about how sexual health training is provided across countries and specialties.

Aim

To assess (i) sexual health training during postgraduate training programs in psychiatry, obstetrics and gynecology, urology, and endocrinology across Europe; (ii) the confidence of trainees and early-career specialists in dealing with patients with sexual health problems; and (iii) their need for further training in sexual health during postgraduate training programs.

Methods

The study was based on a collaboration among European societies of trainees in these 4 specialties. An online survey was developed and conducted from January 2015 through June 2016.

Main Outcome Measures

Self-reported questionnaire.

Results

We collected 366 completed surveys from 40 countries. Sexual health training was considered an important or very important part of specialty training by 78.7% of participants. Overall, 62.3% of participants had not received any training in sexual health. Especially in obstetrics and gynecology, the large majority did not have training in sexual health (82.8%), followed by psychiatry (59.8%), urology (58.4%), and endocrinology (56.1%). There were statistically significant differences among specialties in the confidence of participants in managing patients with sexual health problems. In general, trainees and early-career specialists who had received sexual health training felt more confident in dealing with patients with gender dysphoria (P = .011), need for sexual therapy (P = .0004), paraphilic disorders (P = .0003), and sexual dysfunction (P = .0017).

Conclusions

Trainees and early-career specialists found sexual health training important for their future medical practice; however, less than half received it during their postgraduate training. Participants felt more confident in managing patients with sexual health problems when sexual health training was included in the postgraduate training program.
Does Depth Matter? Factors Affecting Choice of Vulvoplasty Over Vaginoplasty as Gender-Affirming Genital Surgery for Transgender Women
Authors: Jiang David , Witten Jonathan , Berli Jens , Dugi Daniel
Published: April 2018

Background

Gender-affirming vaginoplasty aims to create the external female genitalia (vulva) as well as the internal vaginal canal; however, not all patients desire nor can safely undergo vaginal canal creation.

Aim

Our objective is to describe the factors influencing patient choice or surgeon recommendation of vulvoplasty and to assess the patient’s satisfaction with this choice.

Methods

Gender-affirming genital surgery consults were reviewed from March 2015 until December 2017, and patients scheduled for or who had completed vulvoplasty were interviewed by telephone.

Outcomes

We report demographic data and the reasons for choosing vulvoplasty as gender-affirming surgery for patients who either completed or were scheduled for surgery, in addition to patient reports of satisfaction with choice of surgery, satisfaction with the surgery itself, and sexual activity after surgery.

Results

In total, 486 patients were seen in consultation for trans-feminine gender-affirming genital surgery: 396 requested vaginoplasty and 39 patients requested vulvoplasty. 30 Patients either completed or are scheduled for vulvoplasty. Vulvoplasty patients were older and had higher body mass index than those seeking vaginoplasty. The majority (63%) of the patients seeking vulvoplasty chose this surgery despite no contra-indications to vaginoplasty. The remaining patients had risk factors leading the surgeon to recommend vulvoplasty. Of those who completed surgery, 93% were satisfied with the surgery and their decision for vulvoplasty.

Clinical Translation

Vulvoplasty creates the external appearance of female genitalia without creation of a neovaginal canal; it is associated with high satisfaction and low decision regret.

Conclusions

This is the first study of factors impacting a patient’s choice of or a surgeon’s recommendation for vulvoplasty over vaginoplasty as gender-affirming genital surgery; it also is the first reported series of patients undergoing vulvoplasty only. Limitations of this study include its retrospective nature, non-validated questions, short-term follow-up, and selection bias in how we offer vulvoplasty. Vulvoplasty is a form of gender-affirming feminizing surgery that does not involve creation of a neovagina, and it is associated with high satisfaction and low decision regret.
Lumbar Epidural Varix Causing Radicular Pain: A Case Report and Differential Diagnosis of Lumbar Cystic Lesions
Authors: Im Il‐Kyu , Son Eun‐Seok , Kim Du Hwan
Published: April 2018

Lumbar epidural varices are a rare cause of radicular pain mimicking lumbar disc herniation or other cyst‐like masses including sequestrated disc herniation, facet joint synovial cyst, or perineural cyst. We report a case of a 36‐year‐old woman presenting with lumbar radicular pain caused by a lumbar epidural varix. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a cystic lesion in the ventral epidural space posterior to the right L4 body. Surgery was conducted and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of an epidural varix. Lumbar epidural varices and other lumbar cystic lesions can commonly cause radicular pain. Physicians will benefit from increased awareness of epidural varices as a cause of lumbosacral radicular pain and the associated radiologic findings supporting differential diagnosis. In particular, careful interpretation of MRI scans may help ensure proper diagnosis of an epidural varix versus other cystic lesions.

Level of Evidence

V