bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of occult hepatitis B in a population from the Brazilian Amazon region
Authors: de Castro Sant’ Anna Carla , de Almeida Marcella Kelly Costa , Ferreira Patrícia , de Oliveira Roseane Gomes , Ferreira Baraúna Anna Rafaella , Costa Gonçalvez Evonnildo , Marinho da Silva Andrea , de Souza Pereira Carolina , Martins Luisa Caricio
Published: February 2018

In the present study, we evaluated the prevalence of occult hepatitis B (OBI) in a population from the Brazilian Amazon region, identify circulating genotypes, and mutations in the S gene. One hundred eighty‐one patients with negative serology for HBsAg and anti‐HBs and positive serology for anti‐HBc participated in the study. Detection of viral DNA, genotyping by sequencing, and analysis of nucleotide sequences to detect possible mutations were performed. HBV DNA was detected in 14.36% of the patients. Genotyping revealed genotype A in 88.46% of HBV DNA‐positive subjects, with subgenotype A1 being the most prevalent (78.26%) followed by subgenotype A2 (21.74%). Genotype F was detected in 11.54% (all of them subgenotype F2). Amino acid substitutions were observed in the amplified S gene in individuals with OBI compared to HBsAg‐positive individuals (evident infection). In conclusion, the results show a high prevalence of OBI in the population studied, with a pattern of genotypes A and F that circulate in the Brazilian Amazon region. Amino acid substitutions were detected in part of the S gene in patients with OBI. Further studies on the molecular epidemiology of HBV in this region are important to identify patients considered healthy but who are potential transmitters of the disease.
Hantavirus induced cardiopulmonary syndrome: A public health concern
Authors: Llah Sibghat T. , Mir Sheema , Sharif Sumaiya , Khan Salman , Mir Mohammed A.
Published: February 2018

Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome is characterized by pulmonary capillary leakage and alveolar flooding, resulting in 50% mortality due to fulminant hypoxic respiratory failure. In addition, depression of cardiac function ensues, which complicates the picture with cardiogenic shock. Early diagnosis and appropriate use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are amongst the lifesaving interventions in this fatal illness. However, a recent case report demonstrates that implementation of high volume continuous hemofilteration along with protective ventilation reverses the cardiogenic shock within few hours in hantavirus infected patients. This review article is focused on the recent advances in clinical features, diagnosis, management, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of hantavirus induced cardiopulmonary syndrome. It provides information for clinicians to help in correct diagnosis during the early stages of viral infection that could improve the prognosis of this viral illness.
TM2D3 rs675436 or FGFR2 rs755793 polymorphisms and susceptibility to Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated tumors in Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Liu Wen , Yang Yang , Zhao Zhenzhen , Luo Bing
Published: February 2018

Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) is etiologically linked to nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lymphoma, and gastric carcinoma. The aim of this study was to assess the association of TM2 domain containing 3 (TM2D3) and fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) SNPs rs675436 and rs755793 with susceptibility to EBV‐associated tumors in Chinese Han population. Genomic DNA of 415 patients with cancer and 99 healthy controls was assessed using a MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometer, and was genotyped in EBV‐associated/‐negative gastric cancer (EBVa/nGC), EBV‐associated/‐negative nasopharyngeal carcinoma (EBVa/nNPC), EBV‐associated/‐negative lymphoma (EBVa/nL), and normal controls (NC). The chi‐squared (χ2) test or Fisher's exact test was used to compare all results and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The results showed that the G‐allele of rs675436 was less prevalent in EBVaGC as than in the other groups, while the T‐allele was more prevalent in EBVaGC (EBVaGC vs EBVnGC: P = 0.005, OR = 10.522, 95%CI = 1.377‐80.376; EBVaGC vs NC: P = 0.005, OR = 10.637, 95%CI = 1.392‐81.263). Interestingly, the distribution of the genotype and allele frequencies of rs675436 was significantly different between EBVaGC and EBVaNPC. Neither the genotype nor allele frequency of rs755793 was statistically different between any two groups (P > 0.05). These findings indicated that the TT genotype and T allele frequencies of rs675436 were associated with an increased risk of EBVaGC, while allele A or G of rs755793 had no effect on the occurrence of EBV‐associated tumors in Chinese Han population.
Application of nanoperlite as a new natural sorbent in the preconcentration of three organophosphorus pesticides by microextraction in packed syringe coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry
Authors: Taghani Abdollah , Goudarzi Nasser , Bagherian Ghadam Ali , Arab Chamjangali Mansour , Amin Amir Hossein
Published: February 2018

A rapid, low‐cost, and simple method is proposed based on a miniaturized solid‐phase extraction named microextraction in packed syringe coupled with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry for the preconcentration and determination of some organophosphorous pesticides including diazinon, ethion, and malathion. For the first time, natural nanoperlite is used as a safe sorbent. Based on this technique, the analytes are adsorbed on the solid phase and then eluted by a desorbing solvent. The influence of some important parameters such as the solution pH, type, and volume of the organic desorption solvent on the microextraction efficiency of the selected pesticide technique is investigated. The proposed method showed a good linearity in the range of 1.0–35.0 μg/L for ethion and 0.4–30.0 μg/L for both diazinon and malathion. The limits of detection in the range of 0.1–0.38 μg/L were obtained using the selected ion‐monitoring mode of the mass spectrometer. The reproducibility of the method was found to be in the range of 2.8–8.9% for the studied pesticides. To evaluate the matrix effect, the developed method is also applied to the preconcentration and determination of the selected pesticides in real water samples.
Use of a Simple, Inexpensive Dual‐Modality Phantom as a Learning Tool for Magnetic Resonance Imaging–Ultrasound Fusion Techniques
Authors: Walter William R. , Burke Christopher J. , Diallo Mamadou , Adler Ronald S.
Published: February 2018

We describe an easily constructed, customizable phantom for magnetic resonance imaging–ultrasound fusion imaging and demonstrate its role as a learning tool to initiate clinical use of this emerging modality. Magnetic resonance imaging–ultrasound fusion can prove unwieldy to integrate into routine practice. We demonstrate real‐time fusion with single‐sequence magnetic resonance imaging uploaded to the ultrasound console. Phantom training sessions allow radiologists and sonographers to practice fiducial marker selection and improve efficiency with the fusion hardware and software interfaces. Such a tool is useful when the modality is first introduced to a practice and in settings of sporadic use, in which intermittent training may be useful.
Opioid prescribing patterns among otolaryngologists: Crucial insights among the medicare population
Authors: Svider Peter F. , Arianpour Khashayar , Guo Eric , Folbe Elana , Zuliani Giancarlo , Lin Hosheng , Eloy Jean Anderson , Folbe Adam J.
Published: February 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

There has been growing recognition of the roles prescription drug misuse and diversion play in facilitating the ongoing opioid epidemic. Our objective was to evaluate opioid prescription patterns among practicing otolaryngologists.

Study Design

Retrospective review of a CMS database.

Methods

Medicare Part D beneficiary data (2015) were accessed for a list of otolaryngologists. Opioid prescription rates, amount, and supply were calculated. Factors including board certification, experience, gender, and location were obtained for the 9,068 unique otolaryngologists represented in this dataset.

Results

In 2015, otolaryngologists wrote 133,779 opioid prescriptions for 922,806 days (6.9 days/per prescription). The majority was for hydrocodone‐acetaminophen (64.0%). Most otolaryngologists (51.2%) prescribed ≤ 10 opioids; 6.1% offered > 50 opioid prescriptions. Men wrote more prescriptions on average. Opioid prescription rates were greatest in the Midwest (4.6%) and least in the Northeast (1.8%), and the highest/lowest rates were in Delaware (8.6%) and New York (1.3%). Midcareer (11 –20 years) otolaryngologists were most likely to write >50 prescriptions. The opioid prescription rate declined with greater experience.

Conclusions

Opioid prescriptions written by otolaryngologists may play a significant role in the availability of these agents, as otolaryngologists wrote nearly 1 million days worth of opioids to Medicare beneficiaries in 2015. Although the majority of otolaryngologists write fewer than 11 prescriptions annually, those writing more prescriptions also write lengthier courses. There is significant geographic variation in prescribing patterns, highlighting a lack of consensus, and midcareer otolaryngologists are more aggressive in offering opioids. These findings highlight an urgent need for strengthening educational resources aimed at minimizing unnecessary prescriptions.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:1576–1581, 2018
Vestibulo‐ocular reflex gain values in the suppression head impulse test of healthy subjects
Authors: Rey‐Martinez Jorge , Thomas‐Arrizabalaga Izaskun , Espinosa‐Sanchez Juan Manuel , Batuecas‐Caletrio Angel , Trinidad‐Ruiz Gabriel , Matiño‐Soler Eusebi , Perez‐Fernandez Nicolas
Published: February 2018

Objective

To assess whether there are differences in vestibulo‐ocular reflex (VOR) gain for suppression head impulse (SHIMP) and head impulse (HIMP) video head impulse test paradigms, and if so, what are their causes.

Methods

Prospective multicenter observational double‐blind nonrandomized clinical study was performed by collecting 80 healthy subjects from four reference hospitals. SHIMP data was postprocessed to eliminate impulses in which early SHIMP saccades were detected. Differences between HIMP and SHIMP VOR gain values were statistically evaluated. Head impulse maximum velocity, gender, age, direction of impulse, and hospital center were considered as possible influential factors.

Results

A small significant statistical difference between HIMP and SHIMP VOR gain values was found on repeated measures analysis of variance (−0.05 ± 0.006, P < 0.001). Optimized linear model showed a significant influence of age variable on the observed differences for HIMP and SHIMP gain values and did not find influence between gain values differences and maximum head impulse velocity. Both HIMP and SHIMP VOR gain values were significant lower (−0.09, P < 0.001) when the impulses were performed to the left side.

Conclusion

We had observed a difference in SHIMP and HIMP gain values not adequately explained by known gain modification factors. The persistence of this slight but significant difference indicates that there are more factors causing lower SHIMP VOR gain values. This difference must to be considered in further studies as well as in the clinical SHIMP testing protocols. We hypothesized that VOR phasic response inhibition could be the underlying cause of this difference.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 128:2383–2389, 2018
Uncultivated stromal vascular fraction is equivalent to adipose‐derived stem and stromal cells on porous polyurethrane scaffolds forming adipose tissue in vivo
Authors: Griessl Michael , Buchberger Anna‐Maria , Regn Sybille , Kreutzer Kilian , Storck Katharina
Published: February 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To find an alternative approach to contemporary techniques in tissue augmentation and reconstruction, tissue engineering strategies aim to involve adipose‐derived stem and stromal cells (ASCs) harboring a strong differentiation potential into various tissue types such as bone, cartilage, and fat.

Study Design

Animal research.

Methods

The stromal vascular fraction (SVF) was used directly as a cell source to provide a potential alternative to contemporary ASC‐based adipose tissue engineering. Seeded in TissuCol fibrin, we applied ASCs or SVF cells to porous, degradable polyurethane (PU) scaffolds.

Results

We successfully demonstrated the in vivo generation of volume‐stable, well‐vascularized PU‐based constructs containing host‐derived mature fat pads. Seeded human stem cells served as modulators of host‐cell migration rather than differentiating themselves. We further demonstrated that preliminary culture of SVF cells was not necessary.

Conclusions

Our results bring adipose tissue engineering, together with automated processing devices, closer to clinical applicability. The time‐consuming and cost‐intensive culture and induction of the ASCs is not necessary.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:E206–E213, 2018
Rheo‐Raman Study of Isotactic Polypropylene Under Tensile Deformation
Authors: Kida Takumitsu , Hiejima Yusuke , Nitta Koh‐Hei
Published: February 2018

The microscopic deformation behaviors such as the load sharing and the molecular orientation of the crystalline chains of isotactic polypropylene under tensile stretching are examined by using rheo‐Raman spectroscopy. The Raman bands assigned to the skeletal CC stretching modes show blue shifts after the yielding, indicating that the stretching stress is applied to the main chain. The CH3 rocking band shows red shift in the yielding region, suggesting that the compression stress is applied in the interchain direction of the crystalline chains. While the molecular orientation of the crystalline chains begins after the first yield point, the crystalline orientation is hindered due to the existence of the rigid and bulky lamellar cluster units. Beyond the yielding region, the orientation toward the stretching direction proceeds rapidly, and the crystalline chains simply orient in the stretching direction in the highly strained region.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Crystalline Morphology Under Temperature Gradient: A Case Study of Syndiotactic Polypropylene
Authors: Teangtae Tharinee , Sooksod Thitiporn , Anantawaraskul Siripon
Published: February 2018

In this work, a mathematical model for describing the crystallization kinetics and morphological development of syndiotactic polypropylene (s‐PP) during crystallization under temperature gradient is developed based on Monte Carlo simulation. The effect of temperature range is also investigated. The results shows that temperature range significantly affected the relative crystallinity, average crystallite size, and crystallite size distribution. The average Avrami rate constant is found to be adequate for describing the overall crystallization rate at the early state of crystallization.
Three‐dimensional reciprocal space x‐ray coherent scattering tomography of two‐dimensional object
Authors: Zhu Zheyuan , Pang Shuo
Published: February 2018

Purpose

X‐ray coherent scattering tomography is a powerful tool in discriminating biological tissues and bio‐compatible materials. Conventional x‐ray scattering tomography framework can only resolve isotropic scattering profile under the assumption that the material is amorphous or in powder form, which is not true especially for biological samples with orientation‐dependent structure. Previous tomography schemes based on x‐ray coherent scattering failed to preserve the scattering pattern from samples with preferred orientations, or required elaborated data acquisition scheme, which could limit its application in practical settings. Here, we demonstrate a simple imaging modality to preserve the anisotropic scattering signal in three‐dimensional reciprocal (momentum transfer) space of a two‐dimensional sample layer.

Methods

By incorporating detector movement along the direction of x‐ray beam, combined with a tomographic data acquisition scheme, we match the five dimensions of the measurements with the five dimensions (three in momentum transfer domain, and two in spatial domain) of the object. We employed a collimated pencil beam of a table‐top copper‐anode x‐ray tube, along with a panel detector to investigate the feasibility of our method.

Results

We have demonstrated x‐ray coherent scattering tomographic imaging at a spatial resolution ~2 mm and momentum transfer resolution 0.01 Å−1 for the rotation‐invariant scattering direction. For any arbitrary, non‐rotation‐invariant direction, the same spatial and momentum transfer resolution can be achieved based on the spatial information from the rotation‐invariant direction. The reconstructed scattering profile of each pixel from the experiment is consistent with the x‐ray diffraction profile of each material. The three‐dimensional scattering pattern recovered from the measurement reveals the partially ordered molecular structure of Teflon wrap in our sample.

Conclusions

We extend the applicability of conventional x‐ray coherent scattering tomography to the reconstruction of two‐dimensional samples with anisotropic scattering profile by introducing additional degree of freedom on the detector. The presented method has the potential to achieve low‐cost, high‐specificity material discrimination based on x‐ray coherent scattering.
Development and clinical characterization of a novel 2041 liquid‐filled ionization chambers array for high‐resolution verification of radiotherapy treatments
Authors: Brualla‐González Luis , Vázquez‐Luque Aurelio , Zapata Martín , González‐Castaño Diego Miguel , Luna‐Vega Víctor , Guiu‐Souto Jacobo , Prieto‐Pena Juan , García Trinitat , Granero Domingo , Vicedo Aurora , Rosellò Joan , Pombar Miguel , Gómez Faustino , Pardo‐Montero Juan
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study was to present a novel 2041 liquid‐filled ionization chamber array for high‐resolution verification of radiotherapy treatments.

Materials and Methods

The prototype has 2041 ionization chambers of 2.5 × 2.5 mm2 area filled with isooctane. The detection elements are arranged in a central square grid of 43 × 43, totally covering an area of 107.5 × 107.5 mm2. The central inline and cross‐line are extended to 227 mm and the diagonals to 321 mm to be able to perform profile measurements of large fields. We have studied stability, pixel response uniformity, dose rate dependence, depth and field size dependence and anisotropy. We present results for output factors, tongue‐and‐groove, garden fence, small field profiles, irregular fields, and verification of dose planes of patient treatments.

Results

Comparison with other detectors used for small field dosimetry (SFD, CC13, microDiamond) has shown good agreement. Output factors measured with the device for square fields ranging from 10 × 10 to 100 × 100 mm2 showed relative differences within 1%. The response of the detector shows a strong dependence on the angle of incident radiation that needs to be corrected for. On the other hand, inter‐pixel relative response variations in the 0.95–1.08 range have been found and corrected for. The application of the device for the verification of dose planes of several treatments has shown gamma passing rates above 97% for tolerances of 2% and 2 mm. The verification of other clinical fields, like small fields and irregular fields used in the commissioning of the TPS, also showed large passing rates. The verification of garden fence and tongue‐and‐groove fields was affected by volume‐averaging effects.

Conclusions

The results show that the liquid filled ionization chamber prototype here presented is appropriate for the verification of radiotherapy treatments with high spatial resolution. Recombination effects do not affect very much the verification of relative dose distributions. However, verification of absolute dose distributions may require normalization to a radiation field which is representative of the dose rate of the treatment delivered.
A 12‐h combined physical and psychological treatment programme for patients with persistent back pain
Authors: Rogers David , Nightingale Peter , Gardner Adrian
Published: February 2018

This service evaluation analysed the long‐term clinical outcomes, as measured by the Pain Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), of a 12‐h group‐based, multidisciplinary, combined physical and psychological treatment programme for patients with persistent back pain in a secondary care setting. Between April 2012 and December 2015, 373 patients attended the programme, with outcome measures obtained for 272 patients post‐treatment. We randomly selected 120 patients who had completed treatment, for long‐term outcome measurement follow‐up, and gained outcome measures for 40 patients in total. At a median follow‐up of 27 months post‐treatment, the results demonstrated significant improvements in both clinical outcome measures. We conclude that a brief combined physical and psychological treatment programme appears to be effective at reducing back disability and pain self‐efficacy, with improvements maintained in the longer term
Enteral Nutrition for Pediatric Crohn's Disease: An Underutilized Therapy
Authors: Shaikhkhalil Ala K. , Crandall Wallace
Published: February 2018

Enteral nutrition (EN) for the treatment of Crohn's disease (CD) involves administration of a liquid nutrition product, administered orally or through tube feeding, while excluding typical dietary components. It is a safe and effective, but largely underused, therapy in the United States as a treatment for CD. EN is a particularly attractive option for pediatric CD as it avoids side effects of corticosteroids, improves growth, and may have a higher likelihood of achieving mucosal healing than some traditional medications. However, there are multiple real and perceived barriers to its use among providers. A comprehensive approach to addressing these barriers to EN may result in its increased use. This paper reviews the literature on the efficacy of EN, methods of utilization, and potential barriers and solutions to those barriers.
A Newton linearized compact finite difference scheme for one class of Sobolev equations
Authors: Chen Xiaoli , Duan Jinqiao , Li Dongfang
Published: February 2018

In this article, a Newton linearized compact finite difference scheme is proposed to numerically solve a class of Sobolev equations. The unique solvability, convergence, and stability of the proposed scheme are proved. It is shown that the proposed method is of order 2 in temporal direction and order 4 in spatial direction. Moreover, compare to the classical extrapolated Crank‐Nicolson method or the second‐order multistep implicit–explicit methods, the proposed scheme is easier to be implemented as it only requires one starting value. Finally, numerical experiments on one and two‐dimensional problems are presented to illustrate our theoretical results.
‘We Are Fire Clan’: Groups, Names and Identity in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Dwyer Peter D. , Minnegal Monica
Published: February 2018

This paper draws on two case studies concerning Kubo and Febi people of Western Province, Papua New Guinea, to reveal, first, ways in which people present themselves to the state as groups that qualify as legitimate beneficiaries of financial benefits expected to flow from extraction of natural gas on or near their land and, second, simultaneously present themselves to their immediate neighbours in ways intended to either lay claim to particular areas of land or offset possible challenges to their asserted rights to land. To achieve these ends, people strategically employ names to variously connote or denote particular assemblages of people.
Greening of business: A step towards sustainability
Authors: Viswanathan Lakshmi , Varghese George
Published: February 2018

The rising awareness of consumers regarding the adverse effects of the ever increasing ecological footprint has given rise to green consumerism. The idea is often encouraged but it can be enhanced only by a collective effort of consumers, firms, and governments. The article builds on the existing literature on green consumerism where it is, by and large, misconceived to be unidirectional—such that the burden of reducing human impressions on ecosystem falls only on the shoulders of consumers. The study reasons about the need for consumer initiatives to be supported with relevant policies and regulations from the government and through socially responsible corporate actions.

The authors explore multiple dimensions of green consumerism and analyze in detail the scope and reach of green business practices in our ongoing strive to sustainability. The article highlights the actions required from the firms to make use of the opportunities provided by green consumerist ideas and the evolving consumer base. It explores the ways in which a business can adopt to become socially responsible by reaching green consumers. The article further identifies the need and impact of green marketing for eco‐friendly products, to penetrate to the expanding consumer base.
A novel tissue‐based ß‐catenin gene and immunohistochemical analysis to exclude familial adenomatous polyposis among children with hepatoblastoma tumors
Authors: Dubbink Hendrikus J. , Hollink Iris H.I.M. , Avenca Valente Carolina , Wang Wenhui , Liu Pengyu , Doukas Michail , van Noesel Max M. , Dinjens Winand N.M. , Wagner Anja , Smits Ron
Published: February 2018

Background

The Wnt/β‐catenin pathway plays a central role in the pathogenesis of most hepatoblastomas (HBs), that is, up to 60–80% carry activating CTNNB1 mutations. HBs can however also be the first manifestation of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). As this is a severe disease, it is important for the patient and related family members to firmly exclude FAP at an early stage. Current diagnosis largely depends on APC germline mutation detection on genomic DNA, which is associated with 10–20% false‐negative results. Here, we establish and validate a tissue‐based β‐catenin gene and immunohistochemical analysis, which complements germline mutation screening to exclude the diagnosis of FAP among HB patients.

Methods

Tumor tissues of 18 HB patients, including three FAP cases were subjected to CTNNB1 exon 3 mutational analysis and immunohistochemistry comparing staining patterns for total and exon 3 specific β‐catenin antibodies.

Results

Our novel tissue‐based method reliably identified all three FAP patients. Their tumors were characterized by a wild‐type exon 3 sequence and a comparable nuclear staining for both antibodies. In contrast, the non‐FAP tumors carried missense CTNNB1 mutations combined with a clearly reduced staining for the exon 3 antibody, or complete loss of staining in case of lesions with exon 3 deletions.

Conclusion

We have successfully established and validated a novel ß‐catenin gene and immunohistochemical diagnostic method, which, when combined with routine germline DNA testing, allows the exclusion of the diagnosis of FAP among HB patients.
Cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A/B gene deletions are markers of poor prognosis in Indian children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Agarwal Manisha , Bakhshi Sameer , Dwivedi Sadanand N. , Kabra Madhulika , Shukla Rashmi , Seth Rachna
Published: February 2018

Background

Cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor 2A/B (CDKN2A/B) genes are implicated in many malignancies including acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). These tumor suppressor genes, with a key regulatory role in cell cycle are located on chromosome 9p21.3. Previous studies involving CDKN2A/B gene deletions have shown mixed associations with survival outcome in childhood ALL.

Procedure

Hundred and four newly diagnosed children with ALL (1–14 years) were enrolled in this study. Genomic DNA from pretreatment bone marrow/peripheral blood samples of these children was investigated for copy number alterations in CDKN2A/B genes using multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification assay. Immunophenotype subtyping and cytogenetic and molecular analysis of ALL was performed at start of induction chemotherapy in all children. Children were monitored for response to prednisolone (Day 8), complete morphological remission, and minimal residual disease at the end of induction. The minimum postinduction follow‐up period was 6 months.

Results

CDKN2A/B deletions were seen in 19.8% (18/91) of B lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) and 38.5% (5/13) of T lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL). Monoallelic CDKN2A/B deletions were found in 61.1% of total deletions in B‐ALL while all the children with T‐ALL harbored biallelic deletions. The prevalence of CDKN2A/B gene deletions was found to be significantly higher in older children (P = 0.002), in those with higher leukocyte count (P = 0.037), and in National Cancer Institute high risk group patients (P = 0.001) in the B‐ALL subgroup. Hazard ratio was significantly high for children with CDKN2A/B deletions in total cohort (P = 0.004). Children with CDKN2A/B deletion had significantly lesser event free survival (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

CDKN2A/B deletions were significantly more prevalent in T‐ALL subgroup and were found to have higher hazard ratio and lesser event free survival in total cohort in our study.
Resilient collapse of thermal sensitive polymer on the surface of the optical fiber taper
Authors: Zhuang Yiwei , Cui Minxin , Huang Zichao , Zou Gang , Zhang Qijin
Published: February 2018

In this work, collapse of poly(N‐isopropyl‐acrylamide) (pNIPAM) grafted on the surface of the optical fiber taper is probed by measuring fluorescence of rhodamine B solution at various temperatures. It is observed that the fluorescence intensity through the taper shows a nonlinear response to temperature. According to the optical model for the special designed taper, it is realized that the nonlinear response results from changing in effective refractive index of interfacial layer between taper and solution. Analysis on relationship between signal change and collapse process reveals a springback process during the collapse of pNIPAM chains. Such a novel phenomenon is further investigated on method for fluorescence measurement and molecular weight of the polymer. These results have not only revealed details of the collapse, but also establish a novel technique for study the collapse of thermal sensitive polymers on the surface. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 778–785
Authentic science with citizen science and student‐driven science fair projects
Authors: Koomen Michele Hollingsworth , Rodriguez Elizabeth , Hoffman Alissa , Petersen Cindy , Oberhauser Karen
Published: February 2018

This study reports on the process and development of middle school science fair projects inspired by a summer science program of citizen science monitoring (Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project) with their classroom teacher. We gathered and analyzed qualitative data (interviews, focus groups, and project boards). Our analysis revealed three key findings: (1) the process of developing and completing a student‐driven investigation for a science fair engages students in the scientific practices envisioned by the Next Generation Science Standards, (2) citizen science served as a springboard for the development of authentic participation in science, and (3) there are dual roles of a teacher as both mentor and master. Our findings have important implications for science education and student science fairs.
DFT Study on the Gas‐Phase Potential Energy Surface Crossing Mechanism of ZnO Formation from Diethylzinc and Triplet Oxygen during Metal‐Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Gan Hanlin , Wang Chaoyang , Li Jian , Gu Feng Long
Published: February 2018

Metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition of zinc oxide (ZnO) using diethylzinc (DEZn) and triplet oxygen (3O2) is investigated at density functional theory level. The structures of reactants, transition states, intermediates, products, and the possible spin conversion points where singlet and triplet potential energy surfaces (PES) crossing have been determined at B3LYP/6‐311G(d) level of theory. The Zn−C bonds are generally considered as the weakest bonds in DEZn, however, the first dissociated bond of DEZn during the oxidation by triplet oxygen is calculated to be the C−H bonds of methyl groups. The reaction is proposed to occur on the triplet PES through a spin conversion points, and to generate zinc hydroxides on the singlet PES. Consequently, the zinc hydroxide tends to organize in oligomers and then dehydrate to generate ZnO clusters. This study could provide theoretical insights for the gas‐phase oxidation mechanism of DEZn by 3O2. We provide the evidence theoretically that the initial reaction inferred from the present computational results is inconsistent with that proposed by the experiment, which includes a coordination of oxygen to the metal atom and shift of an ethyl group from metal to oxygen.
Lithium Bis(fluorosulfony)imide‐Lithium Hexafluorophosphate Binary‐Salt Electrolytes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries: Aluminum Corrosion Behaviors and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Xia Lan , Jiang Yabei , Pan Yueyang , Li Shiqi , Wang Jason , He Yiting , Xia Yonggao , Liu Zhaoping , Chen George Z.
Published: February 2018

Aluminum corrosion behaviors and electrochemical properties of Lithium bis(fluorosulfony)imide (LiFSI)‐lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) binary‐salt electrolytes containing mixtures of LiFSI and LiPF6 (with a total salt content of 1.2 mol L−1) with different molar ratios in EC/EMC (3:7, by vol.) solutions are systematically investigated. Our experimental results from cyclic voltammetry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), chronoamperometry and the charge‐discharge measurements of Li/LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 half‐cells demonstrate that the LiFSI‐LiPF6 binary‐salt electrolytes with the LiFSI concentrations lower than 0.3 mol L−1 exhibit not only passivating aluminum current collectors at 4.3 V vs. Li+/Li, but also improved cycling performance. Meanwhile, Artificial Graphite/LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (AG/NMC111) pouch cells made with the LiFSI(0.2)‐LiPF6 (1.0) electrolyte with the LiFSI concentration of 0.2 mol L−1 display an excellent cycling stability with 93.9% capacity retention at 1 C rate after 360 cycles, and enhanced capacity retention at −20 °C, 60 °C and after 55 °C storage for 30 days compared to cells with 1.2 mol L−1 LiPF6/EC‐EMC conventional electrolyte. This work confirms that binary‐salt electrolytes system, such as LiFSI‐LiPF6, may be a promising method to enhance the longevity and storage properties of Li‐ion batteries.
Effect of Part/Die Boundary Conditions on Microstructural Evolution during Hot Stamping 2000 MPa Class Boron Steel
Authors: Taylor Tom , McCulloch John
Published: February 2018

Hot stamping is performed with the 2000 MPa class 38MnB5 boron steel. Temperature evolution at critical regions of the part geometry is recorded by in situ thermocouple data logging at the part/die interface. Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive x‐ray Spectroscopy, X‐Ray Diffraction, and Vickers hardness testing are performed at the critical regions of the part geometry in order to evaluate microstructural evolution and correlate to observed temperature evolution. The microstructure is predominantly martensitic in the flat regions of the part geometry, with the exception of <1.5% retained austenite. The microstructure exhibits higher volume fractions of retained austenite in the radii of the part geometry. The radii of the part geometry are also suspected to exhibit auto‐tempered martensite. The higher volume fractions of retained austenite and presence of auto‐tempered martensite in the radii of the part geometry are primarily correlated to lower cooling rates. In the radii of the part geometry, nano‐scale titanium carbide precipitates are present and the martensite lath size is finer, giving rise to higher local hardness. The characteristics observed in the radii of the part geometry are correlated to hot austenitic plastic deformation and its effect on the subsequent austenite to martensite transformation.
Online Education and the Emotional Experience of the Teacher
Authors: Cook Judi Puritz
Published: February 2018

This chapter examines the emotional experience of teachers who are designing courses for digital learning environments. Recommendations for gaining confidence and coping with the emotional stress of rethinking a course for online learning are addressed.
Slow Feeling and Quiet Being: Women of Color Teaching in Urgent Times
Authors: Hua Linh U.
Published: February 2018

This chapter examines the affective lives of women of color faculty in university and classroom conditions that entail competing emotional labor.
A natural antioxidant, tannic acid mitigates iron‐overload induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice through ROS regulation
Authors: Basu Tapasree , Panja Sourav , Shendge Anil Khushalrao , Das Abhishek , Mandal Nripendranath
Published: February 2018

Tannic acid (TA), a water soluble natural polyphenol with 8 gallic acids groups, is abundantly present in various medicinal plants. Previously TA has been investigated for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Being a large polyphenol, TA chelates more than 1 metal. Hence TA has been explored for potent antioxidant activities against reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and as iron chelator in vitro thereby mitigating iron‐overload induced hepatotoxicity in vivo. Iron dextran was injected intraperitoneally in Swiss albino mice to induce iron‐overload triggered hepatotoxicity, followed by oral administration of TA for remediation. After treatment, liver, spleen, and blood samples were processed from sacrificed animals. The liver iron, serum ferritin, serum markers, ROS, liver antioxidant status, and liver damage parameters were assessed, followed by histopathology and protein expression studies. Our results show that TA is a prominent ROS and RNS scavenger as well as iron chelator in vitro. It also reversed the ROS levels in vivo and restricted the liver damage parameters as compared to the standard drug, desirox. Moreover, this natural polyphenol exclusively ameliorates the histopathological and fibrotic changes in liver sections reducing the iron‐overload, along with chelation of liver iron and normalization of serum ferritin. The protective role of TA against iron‐overload induced apoptosis in liver was further supported by changed levels of caspase 3, PARP as well as Bax/BCl‐2 ratio. Thus, TA can be envisaged as a better orally administrable iron chelator to reduce iron‐overload induced hepatotoxicity through ROS regulation.
Subsurface plant‐accessible water in mountain ecosystems with a Mediterranean climate
Authors: Klos P. Zion , Goulden Michael L. , Riebe Clifford S. , Tague Christina L. , O’Geen A. Toby , Flinchum Brady A. , Safeeq Mohammad , Conklin Martha H. , Hart Stephen C. , Berhe Asmeret Asefaw , Hartsough Peter C. , Holbrook W. Steven , Bales Roger C.
Published: February 2018

Enhanced understanding of subsurface water storage will improve prediction of future impacts of climate change, including drought, forest mortality, wildland fire, and strained water security. Previous research has examined the importance of plant‐accessible water in soil, but in upland landscapes within Mediterranean climates, soil often accounts for only a fraction of subsurface water storage. We draw insights from previous research and a case study of the Southern Sierra Critical Zone Observatory to define attributes of subsurface storage; review observed patterns in their distribution; highlight nested methods for estimating them across scales; and showcase the fundamental processes controlling their formation. We review observations that highlight how forest ecosystems subsist on lasting plant‐accessible stores of subsurface water during the summer dry period and during multiyear droughts. The data suggest that trees in these forest ecosystems are rooted deeply in the weathered, highly porous saprolite or saprock, which reaches up to 10–20 m beneath the surface. This review confirms that the system harbors large volumes of subsurface water and shows that they are vital to supporting the ecosystem through the summer dry season and extended droughts. This research enhances understanding of deep subsurface water storage across landscapes and identifies key remaining challenges in predicting and managing response to climate and land use change in mountain ecosystems of the Sierra Nevada and in other Mediterranean climates worldwide.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes

Science of Water > Water Extremes

Water and Life > Nature of Freshwater Ecosystems
On hypothesis testing in hydrology: Why falsification of models is still a really good idea
Authors: Beven Keith J.
Published: February 2018

This opinion piece argues that in respect of testing models as hypotheses about how catchments function, there is no existing methodology that adequately deals with the potential for epistemic uncertainties about data and hydrological processes in the modeling processes. A rejectionist framework is suggested as a way ahead, wherein assessments of uncertainties in the input and evaluation data are used to define limits of acceptability prior to any model simulations being made. The limits of acceptability might also depend on the purpose of the modeling so that we can be more rigorous about whether a model is actually fit‐for‐purpose. Different model structures and parameter sets can be evaluated in this framework, albeit that subjective elements necessarily remain, given the epistemic nature of the uncertainties in the modeling process. One of the most effective ways of reducing the impacts of epistemic uncertainties, and allow more rigorous hypothesis testing, would be to commission better observational methods. Model rejection is a good thing in that it requires us to be better, resulting in advancement of the science.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes

Science of Water > Methods
Cover Image, Volume 10, Issue 2
Authors: Nance Michael E. , Hakim Chady H. , Yang N. Nora , Duan Dongsheng
Published: February 2018

The cover image, by Michael E. Nance et al., is based on the Focus Article Nanotherapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1472. Design Credit: Michael E. Nance and Dongsheng Duan.

image
Boredom proneness and its correlation with Internet addiction and Internet activities in adolescents with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Chou Wen‐Jiun , Chang Yu‐Ping , Yen Cheng‐Fang
Published: February 2018

This study examined the associations of boredom proneness with Internet addiction and activities as well as the moderators for such associations in adolescents with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In total, 300 adolescents with ADHD participated in this study. Their Internet addiction, the scores for lack of external and internal stimulation on the Boredom Proneness Scale‐short form (BPS‐SF), ADHD, parental characteristics, and the types of Internet activities were examined. The associations of boredom proneness with Internet addiction and Internet activities and the moderators of the associations were examined using logistic regression analyses. Higher scores for lack of external stimulation on the BPS‐SF were significantly associated with a higher risk of Internet addiction. Maternal occupational socioeconomic status moderated the association of lack of external stimulation with Internet addiction. Higher scores for lack of external stimulation were significantly associated with a high tendency to engage in online gaming, whereas higher scores for lack of internal stimulation were significantly associated with a low tendency to engage in online studies. Lack of external stimulation on the BPS‐SF should be considered a target in prevention and intervention programs for Internet addiction among adolescents with ADHD.
Review of stopping power and Coulomb explosion for molecular ion in plasmas
Authors: Wang Guiqiu , Yi He , Li Yujiao , Wang Yaochuan , Liu Dajun , Gao Fei , Liu Wei , Ren Jieru , Wang Xing , Zhao Yongtao , Wang Younian
Published: February 2018

We summarize our theoretical studies for stopping power of energetic heavy ion, diatomic molecular ions and small clusters penetrating through plasmas. As a relevant research field for the heavy ion inertial confinement fusion (HICF), we lay the emphasis on the dynamic polarization and correlation effects of the constituent ion within the molecular ion and cluster for stopping power in order to disclose the role of the vicinage effect on the Coulomb explosion and energy deposition of molecules and clusters in plasma. On the other hand, as a promising scheme for ICF, both a strong laser field and an intense ion beam are used to irradiate a plasma target. So the influence of a strong laser field on stopping power is significant. We discussed a large range of laser and plasma parameters on the coulomb explosion and stopping power for correlated-ion cluster and C60 cluster. Furthermore, in order to indicate the effects of different cluster types and sizes on the stopping power, a comparison is made for hydrogen and carbon clusters. In addition, the deflection of molecular axis for diatomic molecules during the Coulomb explosion is also given for the cases both in the presence of a laser field and laser free. Finally, a future experimental scheme is put forward to measure molecular ion stopping power in plasmas in Xi'an Jiaotong University of China.
Biometrics: leap of faith or fact of life?
Authors: Canham Jim
Published: February 2018

We speak to Jim Canham, head of Accenture Border Services, about the rapid uptake of biometrics in border control and other sectors, yet why it is not the next saviour of personal and corporate security.
Medically Attended Catheter Complications Are Common in Patients With Outpatient Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Spires Steven S. , Rebeiro Peter F. , Miller Mickie , Koss Katie , Wright Patty W. , Talbot Thomas R.
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

Outpatient central venous catheters (CVCs) are being used more frequently; however, data describing mechanical complications and central-line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) in the outpatient setting are limited. We performed a retrospective observational cohort study to understand the burden of these complications to elucidate their impact on the healthcare system.

METHODS

Data were retrospectively collected on patients discharged from Vanderbilt University Medical Center with a CVC in place and admitted into the care of Vanderbilt Home Care Services. Risk factors for medically attended catheter-associated complications (CACs) and outpatient CLABSIs were analyzed.

RESULTS

A CAC developed in 143 patients (21.9%), for a total of 165 discrete CAC events. Among these, 76 (46%) required at least 1 visit to the emergency department or an inpatient admission, while the remaining 89 (54%) required an outpatient clinic visit. The risk for developing a CAC was significantly increased in female patients, patients with a CVC with >1 lumen, and patients receiving total parenteral nutrition. The absolute number of CLABSIs identified in the study population was small at 16, or 2.4% of the total cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Medically attended catheter complications were common among outpatients discharged with a CVC, and reduction of these events should be the focus of outpatient quality improvement programs.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:439–444
Ethical leadership, trust in leader and creativity: The mediated mechanism and an interacting effect
Authors: Javed Basharat , Rawwas Mohammed Y A , Khandai Sujata , Shahid Kamran , Tayyeb Hafiz Habib
Published: February 2018

This study examines the relationship between ethical leadership and employee creativity with mediating role of trust in leader and moderating role of openness to experience. Data were collected from 205 supervisor–subordinate small textile firms across Pakistan. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the distinctiveness of variables used in our study. The results confirmed that ethical leadership promotes creativity at workplace, while trust in leader mediates the effect of ethical leadership on creativity. Furthermore, the results did not confirm the moderation of openness to experience on the relationship between trust in leader and employee creativity. The implications are discussed.