bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of hospitalization in patients with head and neck cancer treated with intensity‐modulated radiation therapy
Authors: Ling Diane C. , Kabolizadeh Peyman , Heron Dwight E. , Ohr James P. , Wang Hong , Johnson Jonas , Kubicek Gregory J.
Published: July 2014

Background

Patients with primary head and neck cancer managed with radiation therapy (RT) +/‐ chemotherapy may experience significant treatment‐related toxicities. We assessed hospitalization as a metric for severe treatment‐related toxicities and evaluated patient and treatment factors for possible association.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed on 147 patients with head and neck cancer treated with definitive or adjuvant intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) +/‐ chemotherapy. Multiple Poisson regression model was used to analyze relationships between patient or treatment factors and number of hospital stays during RT and within 8 weeks after RT.

Results

Multivariate analysis showed preexisting diabetes or pulmonary disease, primary carcinoma of oral cavity, and prescribed radiation dose (p < .05) were associated with increased number of patient hospital stays during or shortly after RT.

Conclusion

We found that 34.7% of patients experienced a chemoradiation toxicity‐related hospitalization during or shortly after treatment. Prior pulmonary disease, diabetes, and increasing prescribed radiation dose were associated with increased hospital stays. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1750–1755, 2015
Synergistic apoptosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells by co‐inhibition of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor signaling and compensatory signaling pathways
Authors: Axelrod Mark J. , Mendez Rolando E. , Khalil Ashraf , Leimgruber Stephanie S. , Sharlow Elizabeth R. , Capaldo Brian , Conaway Mark , Gioeli Daniel G. , Weber Michael J. , Jameson Mark J.
Published: July 2014

Background

In head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), resistance to single‐agent targeted therapy may be overcome by co‐targeting of compensatory signaling pathways.

Methods

A targeted drug screen with 120 combinations was used on 9 HNSCC cell lines.

Results

Multiple novel drug combinations demonstrated synergistic growth inhibition. Combining the insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) inhibitor, BMS754807, with either the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)‐family inhibitor, BMS599626, or the Src‐family kinase inhibitor, dasatinib, resulted in substantial synergy and growth inhibition. Depending on the cell line, these combinations induced synergistic or additive apoptosis; when synergistic apoptosis was observed, AKT phosphorylation was inhibited to a greater extent than either drug alone. Conversely, when additive apoptosis occurred, AKT phosphorylation was not reduced by the drug combination.

Conclusion

Combined IGF‐1R/HER family and IGF‐1R/Src family inhibition may have therapeutic potential in HNSCC. AKT may be a node of convergence between IGF‐1R signaling and pathways that compensate for IGF‐1R inhibition. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1722–1732, 2015
Robotic thyroidectomy learning curve for beginning surgeons with little or no experience of endoscopic surgery
Authors: Park Jae Hyun , Lee Jandee , Hakim Nor Azham , Kim Ha Yan , Kang Sang‐Wook , Jeong Jong Ju , Nam Kee‐Hyun , Bae Keum‐Seok , Kang Seong Joon , Chung Woong Youn
Published: July 2014

Background

This study assessed the results of robotic thyroidectomy by fellowship‐trained surgeons in their initial independent practice, and whether standard fellowship training for robotic surgery shortens the learning curve.

Methods

This prospective cohort study evaluated outcomes in 125 patients who underwent robotic thyroidectomy using gasless transaxillary single‐incision technique by 2 recently graduated fellowship‐trained surgeons. Learning curves were analyzed by operation time, with proficiency defined as the point at which the slope of the time curve became less steep.

Results

Of the 125 patients, 113 underwent robotic less‐than‐total thyroidectomy, 9 underwent robotic total thyroidectomy and 3 underwent robotic total thyroidectomy with modified radical neck dissection. Mean total times for these 3 operations were 100.8 ± 20.6 minutes, 134.2 ± 38.7 minutes, and 284.7 ± 60.4 minutes, respectively. For both surgeons, the operation times gradually decreased, reaching a plateau after 20 robotic less‐than‐total thyroidectomies.

Conclusion

The surgical learning curve for robotic thyroidectomy performed by recently graduated fellowship‐trained surgeons with little or no experience in endoscopic surgery showed excellent results compared with those in a large series of more experienced surgeons. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1705–1711, 2015
Myofascial pain syndrome after head and neck cancer treatment: Prevalence, risk factors, and influence on quality of life
Authors: Cardoso Leticia Rodrigues , Rizzo Cláudia Carvalho , de Oliveira Cleyton Zanardo , dos Santos Carlos Roberto , Carvalho André Lopes
Published: July 2014

Background

Patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer may develop myofascial pain syndrome as sequelae. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, risk factors, and quality of life (QOL) related to myofascial pain syndrome.

Methods

This was a prospective study including patients with head and neck cancer with at least a 1‐year disease‐free interval.

Results

One hundred sixty‐seven patients were analyzed, and myofascial pain syndrome was diagnosed in 20 (11.9%). In the multivariate analysis, hypopharyngeal tumors (odds ratio [OR] = 6.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.58–25.56) and neck dissection (OR = 3.43; 95% CI = 1.16–10.17) were independent factors for myofascial pain syndrome. The pain (p < .001) and shoulder domain (p < .001) as well as overall University of Washington Quality of Life (UW‐QOL) score (p = .006) were significantly lower in the patients with myofascial pain syndrome.

Conclusion

Myofascial pain syndrome was observed in 1 of 9 patients after head and neck cancer treatment and a worse QOL was observed among them. Tumor site and neck dissection were found to be risk factors for myofascial pain syndrome. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1733–1737, 2015
Incidence of late‐onset pneumonia in patients after treatment with radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Yen Ting‐Ting , Lin Ching‐Heng , Jiang Rong‐San , Shih Yi‐Ting , Yen Hung‐Rong , Liang Kai‐Li
Published: July 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of late‐onset pneumonia in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) after radiotherapy.

Methods

Data were retrieved from the National Health Institute Research Database of Taiwan. We identified patients diagnosed with NPC (International Classification of Disease 9th revision‐Clinical Modification [ICD‐9‐CM] code 147) from January 2005 to December 2008 who received curative radiotherapy as the study cohort. Incidences of pneumonia and related sequelae after 90 days of radiotherapy were calculated.

Results

A total of 3814 patients were enrolled in this study and 210 (5.5%) had late‐onset pneumonia. The correlation coefficient between pneumonia and tube feeding was 0.332 (p < .001). The hazard ratio of pneumonia was 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57–1.15) between patients with and without chemotherapy, and was 2.37 (95% CI = 1.73–3.24) between patients with and without re‐radiation.

Conclusion

Late‐onset pneumonia is not uncommon in patients with NPC after radiotherapy. The risks of associated sequelae and mortality cannot be ignored. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1756–1761, 2015
Establishment and characterization of an orthotopic sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma mouse model
Authors: Costales María , López Fernando , García–Inclán Cristina , Fernández Soledad , Marcos César Álvarez , Llorente José Luis , Hermsen Mario A.
Published: July 2014

Background

Despite therapeutic improvements, patients with sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) still face an unfavorable prognosis and there is great need for alternative treatments.

Methods

SCCNC4 cells, originally derived from a T2N1M0 primary and untreated sinonasal SCC, were inoculated in the maxillary sinus of immunodeficient mice. Histology, invasive behavior, and genetic features were evaluated and compared with the original primary tumor.

Results

The mice developed tumors that invaded bone, surrounding tissues, and brain, showing the same poor differentiation as the original primary tumor. Genetic analysis revealed an almost identical pattern of copy number alterations, except for the deletion and loss of expression of the genes CDKN2A and PTEN.

Conclusion

This article shows the feasibility of an orthotopic mouse model of SCC of the maxillary sinus. Completed by genome‐wide genetic profiling data, this model will be useful for preclinical testing of specific gene‐targeted anticancer drugs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1769–1775, 2015
Investigating the Antecedents of Customer Behavioral Intentions Using the Service Acceptance Model
Authors: Pai Fan‐Yun , Yeh Tsu‐Ming
Published: July 2014

In highly competitive markets, enterprises provide various services to attract and retain customers. However, even though they are able provide higher‐quality services to customers, there are still many companies that are unable to gain benefits because customers do want these services. With the integration of the theory of planned behavior and quality‐value‐satisfaction‐behavioral intention model proposed by Cronin, Brandy, and Hult (), the service acceptance model, an extended model based on the characteristics of the service industry, is proposed in this work to investigate the effects of attitude, social pressure, perceived behavioral control, service quality, and service value on behavioral intention. The empirical results show that the perceived behavioral control of the high‐income sample group is not correlated with customer behavioral intentions, which differs from the results for the overall and low‐income sample groups. The customers’ own financial resources are thus of great importance in this context. Service quality has a significantly positive impact on perceived value and attitude. This suggests that good service quality will be conducive to increasing perceived value and strengthening customers’ positive attitudes toward a service, indirectly affecting the behavioral intention to purchase a service.
Fludarabine–Mitoxantrone–Rituximab regimen in untreated indolent non‐follicular non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma: experience on 143 patients
Authors: Zinzani Pier Luigi , Pellegrini Cinzia , Broccoli Alessandro , Gandolfi Letizia , Stefoni Vittorio , Casadei Beatrice , Maglie Roberto , Argnani Lisa , Pileri Stefano
Published: July 2014

Indolent non‐follicular lymphomas (inFLs) are generally regarded as incurable, apart from extranodal mucosa‐associated lymphatic tissue lymphomas, which can be partially cured by surgery, local radiotherapy, or antibiotic treatment. The aim of the present study was to test the degree of effectiveness and the safety of the regimen containing fludarabine, mitoxantrone, and rituximab (FMR) in inFL patients considering all the different entities belonging to this group. An observational retrospective study was conducted on 143 inFL patients providing that their first chemoimmunotherapy performed was FMR regimen and diagnosis from September 2000 to March 2011. There were 32 small lymphocytic lymphomas and 111 marginal zone lymphomas. At the end of treatment, overall response rate was 96.5% with 88% of complete responses (CR) and 8.5% of partial responses. With a median follow‐up of 48 months, 10 out of 125 (8%) CR patients had disease relapse, yielding an estimated 9‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) of 74.9% and an estimated 10‐year overall survival of 92.8%. The estimated 9‐year progression free survival was 70.5%. The 10 relapsed patients showed lymphoma recurrence within 52 months: after this time, the DFS curve presented a plateau configuration. Only two (1.4%) patients developed a secondary hematological neoplasia. This study showed promising findings for the use of a fludarabine‐based regimen in combination with rituximab in the front‐line treatment of symptomatic inFL with a noteworthy high percentage of CR associated to an interesting long‐term DFS and favorable acute and long‐term safety profile. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Externally Contingent and Unstable Self‐Worth as Predictors of Depression in College Women: A 3‐Month Study
Authors: Lopez Frederick G. , Thorne Brittany , Schoenecker Sydney , Siffert Kevin , Chaliman Rebecca , Castleberry Erica
Published: July 2014

Undergraduate women completed measures of externally contingent self‐worth, self‐esteem instability, and depression at the beginning (Time 1) and again 3 months later near the end (Time 2) of an academic semester. Findings indicated that when Time 1 depression scores were controlled for, each Time 1 facet of self‐esteem made significant contributions to Time 2 depression scores. Implications of these findings for the counseling of depressed college students are discussed.
Suicidal Behavior and Help Seeking Among Diverse College Students
Authors: Brownson Chris , Becker Martin Swanbrow , Shadick Richard , Jaggars Shanna S. , Nitkin‐Kaner Yael
Published: July 2014

Suicidal and help‐seeking behaviors of students of color remain a significant problem on college campuses. Self‐reported suicidal experiences and help‐seeking behavior of diverse students are examined on the basis of results from a national survey of college student mental health. The results suggest significant differences in the expression of suicidal thoughts and behavior across racial and ethnic groups and different experiences in their referral for, and utilization of, professional help.
Examination of a Group Counseling Model of Career Decision Making With College Students
Authors: Rowell P. Clay , Mobley A. Keith , Kemer Gulsah , Giordano Amanda
Published: July 2014

The authors examined the effectiveness of a group career counseling model (Pyle, ) on college students’ career decision‐making abilities. They used a Solomon 4‐group design and found that students who participated in the career counseling groups had significantly greater increases in career decision‐making abilities than those who did not participate in the groups. Implications for counseling and future research are discussed.
Work Experiences of Foreign‐Born Asian Women Counseling and Psychology Faculty
Authors: Kim Eunha , Hogge Ingrid , Mok Geoffrey , Nishida Harumi
Published: July 2014

Eleven foreign‐born and ‐raised Asian women faculty in counseling and psychology programs in the United States were interviewed about their work experiences. Analysis using consensual qualitative research revealed 7 sources of stressors, 6 emotional reactions associated with stressors, 5 coping strategies, and 4 types of intrinsic rewards gained from encountering challenges. The results of the study provide information about the unique experiences of this understudied group and have implications for the U.S. higher education system.

Se entrevistó a once profesoras universitarias asiáticas de programas de consejería y psicología en Estados Unidos nacidas y criadas en el extranjero acerca de sus experiencias de trabajo. Un análisis basado en investigación cualitativa consensuada reveló 7 fuentes de estrés, 6 reacciones emocionales asociadas a los motivos del estrés, 5 estrategias de afrontamiento y 4 tipos de recompensa intrínseca ganada por afrontar los desafíos. Los resultados del estudio proporcionan información sobre las experiencias únicas de este grupo que no ha sido estudiado suficientemente, y tienen implicaciones para el sistema de educación superior en Estados Unidos.
Pleiotropic Effects of Obesity on Fracture Risk: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation
Authors: Ishii Shinya , Cauley Jane A , Greendale Gail A , Nielsen Carrie , Karvonen-Gutierrez Carrie , Ruppert Kristine , Karlamangla Arun S
Published: July 2014

Some aspects of an obese body habitus may protect against fracture risk (higher bone mineral density [BMD] and greater tissue padding), while others may augment that risk (greater impact forces during a fall). To examine these competing pathways, we analyzed data from a multisite, multiethnic cohort of 1924 women, premenopausal or early perimenopausal at baseline. Obesity was defined as baseline body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2. Composite indices of femoral neck strength relative to fall impact forces were constructed from DXA-derived bone size, BMD and body size. Incident fractures were ascertained annually during a median follow-up of 9 years. In multivariable linear regression adjusted for covariates, higher BMI was associated with higher BMD but with lower composite strength indices, suggesting that although BMD increases with greater skeletal loading, the increase is not sufficient to compensate for the increase in fall impact forces. During the follow-up, 201 women had fractures. In Cox proportional hazard analyses, obesity was associated with increased fracture hazard adjusted for BMD, consistent with greater fall impact forces in obese individuals. Adjusted for composite indices of femoral neck strength relative to fall impact forces, obesity was associated with decreased fracture hazard, consistent with a protective effect of soft tissue padding. Further adjustment for hip circumference, a surrogate marker of soft tissue padding, attenuated the obesity–fracture association. Our findings support that there are at least three major mechanisms by which obesity influences fracture risk: increased BMD in response to greater skeletal loading, increased impact forces, and greater absorption of impact forces by soft tissue padding. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Beta‐Adrenoceptor Activation Reduces Both Dermal Microvascular Endothelial Cell Migration via a cAMP‐Dependent Mechanism and Wound Angiogenesis
Authors: O'Leary Andrew P. , Fox James M. , Pullar Christine E.
Published: July 2014

Angiogenesis is an essential process during tissue regeneration; however, the amount of angiogenesis directly correlates with the level of wound scarring. Angiogenesis is lower in scar‐free foetal wounds while angiogenesis is raised and abnormal in pathophysiological scarring such as hypertrophic scars and keloids. Delineating the mechanisms that modulate angiogenesis and could reduce scarring would be clinically useful. Beta‐adrenoceptors (β‐AR) are G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) expressed on all skin cell‐types. They play a role in wound repair but their specific role in angiogenesis is unknown. In this study, a range of in vitro assays (single cell migration, scratch wound healing, ELISAs for angiogenic growth factors and tubule formation) were performed with human dermal microvascular endothelial cells (HDMEC) to investigate and dissect mechanisms underpinning β‐AR‐mediated modulation of angiogenesis in chick chorioallantoic membranes (CAM) and murine excisional skin wounds. β‐AR activation reduced HDMEC migration via cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)‐dependent and protein kinase A (PKA)‐independent mechanisms as demonstrated through use of an EPAC agonist that auto‐inhibited the cAMP‐mediated β‐AR transduced reduction in HDMEC motility; a PKA inhibitor was, conversely, ineffective. ELISA studies demonstrated that β‐AR activation reduced pro‐angiogenic growth factor secretion from HDMECs (fibroblast growth factor 2) and keratinocytes (vascular endothelial growth factor A) revealing possible β‐AR‐mediated autocrine and paracrine anti‐angiogenic mechanisms. In more complex environments, β‐AR activation delayed HDMEC tubule formation and decreased angiogenesis both in the CAM assay and in murine excisional skin wounds in vivo. β‐AR activation reduced HDMEC function in vitro and angiogenesis in vivo; therefore, β‐AR agonists could be promising anti‐angiogenic modulators in skin. J. Cell. Physiol. 230: 356–365, 2015. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Cellular Physiology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First‐in‐human study of the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of abediterol (LAS100977), a novel long‐acting Β2‐agonist
Authors: Timmer Wolfgang , Massana Eric , Jimenez Eulalia , Seoane Beatriz , de Miquel Gonzalo , Ruiz Sandrine
Published: July 2014

Here we report the results of a first‐in‐human study to evaluate the safety, tolerability pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of abediterol, a new β2‐adrenergic agonist. Forty‐eight healthy males aged 18–45 years received abediterol doses of 5, 10, 25, or 50 µg, or placebo. Safety and tolerability assessments included adverse event reporting, pulse and blood pressure monitoring, 12‐lead electrocardiograms, laboratory tests, and physical examination. Pharmacodynamic assessments included whole body plethysmography to determine the bronchodilatory effect by means of airway conductance and resistance. Blood and urine samples were obtained for pharmacokinetic analyses. Abediterol showed an overall good safety and tolerability profile in the dose range tested, consistent with the expected characteristics of a β2‐adrenergic agonist. A dose‐dependent increase of systemic treatment‐emergent adverse events was observed, the most frequent being palpitations, tremor, nausea, and asthenia; most were mild in intensity and resolved without the need for intervention. Improvements in airway conductance (increase) and resistance (decrease) were greater for all doses of abediterol tested compared with placebo at all time‐points up to 36 hours. This first‐in‐human study suggests a potent, rapid, and sustained bronchodilatory effect of abediterol in healthy male subjects. Lower doses are currently under investigation in patients with asthma and in patients with COPD.
The development and evaluation of a medical imaging training immersive environment
Authors: Bridge Pete , Gunn Therese , Kastanis Lazaros , Pack Darren , Rowntree Pamela , Starkey Debbie , Mahoney Gaynor , Berry Clare , Braithwaite Vicki , Wilson‐Stewart Kelly
Published: July 2014

Introduction

A novel realistic 3D virtual reality (VR) application has been developed to allow medical imaging students at Queensland University of Technology to practice radiographic techniques independently outside the usual radiography laboratory.

Methods

A flexible agile development methodology was used to create the software rapidly and effectively. A 3D gaming environment and realistic models were used to engender presence in the software while tutor‐determined gold standards enabled students to compare their performance and learn in a problem‐based learning pedagogy.

Results

Students reported high levels of satisfaction and perceived value and the software enabled up to 40 concurrent users to prepare for clinical practice. Student feedback also indicated that they found 3D to be of limited value in the desktop version compared to the usual 2D approach. A randomised comparison between groups receiving software‐based and traditional practice measured performance in a formative role play with real equipment. The results of this work indicated superior performance with the equipment for the VR trained students (P = 0.0366) and confirmed the value of VR for enhancing 3D equipment‐based problem‐solving skills.

Conclusions

Students practising projection techniques virtually performed better at role play assessments than students practising in a traditional radiography laboratory only. The application particularly helped with 3D equipment configuration, suggesting that teaching 3D problem solving is an ideal use of such medical equipment simulators. Ongoing development work aims to establish the role of VR software in preparing students for clinical practice with a range of medical imaging equipment.
Glottic configuration in patients with exercise‐induced stridor: A new paradigm
Authors: Olin J. Tod , Clary Matthew S. , Connors Dan , Abbott Jordan , Brugman Susan , Deng Yiming , Chen Xiaoye , Courey Mark
Published: July 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Paradoxical vocal fold motion and exercise‐induced paradoxical vocal fold motion (EIPVFM) are two related conditions that do not have definitive diagnostic criteria. Much of the EIPVFM literature describes patients with characteristic physiologic findings of severe upper airway obstruction or obvious airflow limitation in the clinical context of exertional dyspnea with audible stridor. The objective of this study was to highlight a group of patients who demonstrate important clinical findings of EIPVFM (exertional dyspnea with audible stridor) without simultaneously definitive physiologic findings (mild glottic adduction and normal flow volume loops).

Study Design

Retrospective medical record review.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 150 patients who performed continuous laryngoscopy during exercise for inclusion in a case series. We excluded patients for technical (incomplete records) and physiologic (extremes of disease severity) reasons. Three blinded physicians (practicing in laryngology, pulmonology, and allergy/immunology) independently evaluated isolated audio tracks, video tracks, and flow volume loops of the remaining patients for the presence or absence of stridor, the glottic configuration, and the presence or absence of inspiratory limitation on exercise flow volume loops at peak work capacity.

Results

Exercise laryngoscopy and flow volume loops were fully evaluated for 23 patients. Five patients with exertional dyspnea were unanimously described as having audible stridor, open glottic configuration, and normal flow volume loops.

Conclusions

EIPVFM can occur in the absence of widely recognized confirmatory physiologic measures. Improved quantitative metrics are needed to better characterize patients with EIPVFM.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:2568–2573, 2014
High Throughput Characterization of Polymer Libraries by Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Baudis Stefan , Lendlein Andreas , Behl Marc
Published: July 2014

Diffuse reflectance FTIR (DRIFT) was established as a high throughput characterization method for classic copolymer systems. Four different methyl methacrylate‐based polymer libraries with styrene, N‐vinylpyrrolidone, 4‐vinylpyridine, or 2‐carboxyethyl acrylate as comonomers were synthesized using an automated/robotic synthesizer platform, and analyzed by 1H NMR and DRIFT. By multivariate data analysis both data sets were compared and correlations with R2 between 0.9373 and 0.9971 could be achieved. By this means high throughput screening of comonomer contents of these polymer libraries was enabled.
All subtypes of the Pmp adhesin family are implicated in chlamydial virulence and show species‐specific function
Authors: Becker Elisabeth , Hegemann Johannes H.
Published: July 2014

The bacterial pathogens Chlamydia trachomatis and C. pneumoniae are obligate intracellular parasites, cause a number of serious diseases, and can infect various cell types in humans. Chlamydial infections are probably initiated by binding of the bacterial outer membrane protein OmcB to host cell glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Here, we show that all nine members of the polymorphic membrane protein (Pmp) family of C. trachomatis mediate adhesion to human epithelial and endothelial cells. Importantly, exposure of infectious particles to soluble recombinant Pmps blocks subsequent infection, thus implicating an important function of the entire protein family in the infection process. Analogous experiments with pairs of recombinant Pmps or a combination of Pmp and OmcB revealed that all Pmps probably act in an adhesion pathway that is distinct from the OmcB‐GAG pathway. Finally, we provide evidence that the Pmps of C. trachomatis and C. pneumoniae exhibit species and tissue specificity. These findings argue for the involvement of C. trachomatis Pmps in the initial phase of infection and suggest that they may interact with a receptor other than the epidermal growth factor receptor recently identified for their counterparts in C. pneumoniae.
Crystalliferous Bacillus cereus group bacteria from a Maryland hardwood forest are dominated by psychrotolerant strains
Authors: Blackburn Michael B. , Martin Phyllis A. W. , Kuhar Daniel , Farrar Robert R. , Gundersen‐Rindal Dawn E.
Published: July 2014

Crystal‐forming bacteria of the Bacillus cereus group were isolated from soil samples collected at different elevations within a mixed hardwood forest in central Maryland, and their phylogenetic relationships determined by multilocus sequence analysis. The vast majority of isolates obtained were associated with two phylogenetic groups known to be psychrotolerant, with very few isolates representing phylogenetic groups more typically associated with Bacillus thuringiensis. Isolates from the psychrotolerant groups were found to grow on solid media at 7°C. Isolates of 11 highly related, novel sequence types (STs) from the psychrotolerant group that includes Bacillus weihenstephanensis were generally found at higher elevations, and were not associated with soils near streams. Isolates of two related STs from the second psychrotolerant group were nearly always found at the bottoms of ravines near streams, in areas abundant in earthworm castings.
Faecal microbial metabolism of olive oil phenolic compounds: In vitro and in vivo approaches
Authors: Mosele Juana I. , Martín‐Peláez Sandra , Macià Alba , Farràs Marta , Valls Rosa‐Maria , Catalán Úrsula , Motilva María‐José
Published: July 2014

Scope

In the present study, the individual colonic metabolism of the main components of the virgin olive oil phenolic fraction was evaluated by an in vitro model using human faecal microbiota. To assess differences in metabolism related to the molecular structure, four phenolic standards were selected, tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, hydroxytyrosol acetate and oleuropein. After studying the in vitro colonic metabolism pathways of the individual phenols, the presence of their colonic metabolites was investigated in human faecal samples obtained before and after the sustained intake (3 weeks) of a daily dose of 25 mL of a phenol‐enriched olive oil.

Methods and results

The in vitro colon fermentation of the four individual phenolic compounds revealed (i) an increase in phenolic acids, (ii) the stability of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol and (iii) the high degradation of hydroxytyrosol acetate and oleuropein. Additionally, a moderate intake of a phenol‐rich olive oil raised the concentration in human faeces of free hydroxytyrosol and phenylacetic and phenylpropionic acids.

Conclusion

The products of colonic catabolism of olive oil phenolic compounds could be good candidates for novel preventive strategies and open a promising line of research into the preventive action of olive oil phenols in colon and other bowel diseases.
Improving the diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorders through survey methodology and cognitive interviewing
Authors: Mewton Louise , Slade Tim , Teesson Maree , Memedovic Sonja , Krueger Robert F.
Published: July 2014

This study aims to identify problems in the structure and wording of questions designed to operationalize four DSM‐IV diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorders (AUDs): (1) use of alcohol in hazardous situations (hazard); (2) tolerance; (3) use of alcohol in larger amounts/longer periods than intended (larger/longer); (4) unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control alcohol use (quit/cut down). Ten experts appraised the questions related to these criteria in the WMH‐CIDI according to a standardized checklist. These experts identified three main problems: (1) the double‐barrelled nature of some of the questions; (2) definitional issues; and (3) unclear thresholds for criterion endorsement. Cognitive interviews of 100 young adult drinkers aged 18–24 were then conducted. The double‐barrelled nature of the DSM‐IV criteria led to their subsequent over‐ or under‐endorsement. Key terms in the questions under investigation were defined inconsistently. There was also a large amount of variability in the thresholds at which larger/longer and quit/cut down were endorsed. Many of these problems could be linked back to the DSM‐IV text. The findings raise questions as to the validity of AUD diagnoses when established via structured diagnostic interview. Further research should focus on testing alternative structure and wording of key AUD criteria to ensure accurate operationalizations of these criteria in structured diagnostic interviews. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FmRα analysis: Rapid and direct estimation of relaxation and kinetic parameters from dynamic nuclear polarization time courses
Authors: Pagès Guilhem , Kuchel Philip W.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

To introduce a direct method for estimating relaxation and kinetic parameter values from rapid dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (RD‐DNP) NMR time courses.

Theory and Methods

The analysis relied on a kinetic model that is often used to analyze data in these studies—a unidirectional (bio)chemical reaction with rate constant k1, coupled to longitudinal relaxation of the magnetization of substrate and product that is characterized by the time constant T1. The latter value was estimated from the width of the product curve (peak) at the height α relative to the maximum height. We showed α ∼ 0.8 under most conditions, so we measured the interval between the falling and rising parts of the curve at the relative height 0.8. We called this the “fall‐minus‐rise time at height α,” or FmRα, and found that FmR0.8 ∼ T1. The ratio β = (product signal/substrate signal) when the product is maximal was shown to be equal to k1 T1. Therefore, k1 = β/FmR0.8.

Results

FmRα analysis was demonstrated with 13C NMR RD‐DNP data recorded from hemolysates and from previously published data.

Conclusion

FmRα analysis enables immediate estimates of kinetic and relaxation parameters from 13C NMR RD‐DNP data. The values can be used as initial estimates in more extensive computer‐based data‐regression analysis. Magn Reson Med 73:2075–2080, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical presentation and electrophysiological findings of porphyric neuropathies: A follow‐up study
Authors: Wu Chi‐Lin , Ro Long‐Sun , Jung Shih‐Ming , Tsai Tzung‐Chang , Chu Chun‐Che , Lyu Rong‐Kuo , Huang Chin‐Chang , Kuo Hung‐Chou
Published: July 2014

Introduction: A case series of acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is described that focuses on the clinical course of the disease with regard to neurological manifestations of the peripheral nervous system. Methods: Eight patients were diagnosed with AIP on the basis of characteristic clinical findings, erythrocyte porphobilinogendeaminase activity, neuropathic patterns, serial changes in nerve conduction studies (NCS), and temporal relationship of central nervous system involvement. Results: Six patients diagnosed with AIP <2 months after symptom onset had neuropathy that was predominantly upper extremity, motor, and proximal. NCS recovery rates were slower in the lower than the upper limbs. Two patients diagnosed >2 months after symptom onset had distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Conclusions: The findings from this case series suggest that the peripheral nerves may be differentially and selectively involved in different diagnostic stages of porphyric neuropathy. Muscle Nerve 51: 363–369, 2015
Nanoskopie im mittleren Infrarot
Authors: Ramer Georg , Lendl Bernhard
Published: July 2014

Mit neuen Nahfeldtechniken umgeht die IR‐Mikroskopie das Beugungslimit und erreicht eine Ortsauflösung zwischen 20 und 50 nm. Dabei hat die Rasterkraftmikroskopie eine entscheidende Funktion.
Unschärfen in der Unschärferelation
Authors: Kofler Johannes
Published: July 2014

Im Gedankenexperiment des Heisenberg‐Mikroskops von 1927 führt eine Ortsmessung zu einer Störung des Impulses. Diese Intuition der “Störung” findet sich in der bekannten quantenmechanischen Formulierung der Heisenbergschen Unschärferelation Δx Δp ≥ h–/2 nicht wieder. Wie eine quantenmechanische Messfehler‐Störungs‐Relation genau aussieht, wurde erst in den letzten zehn Jahren erforscht. Das Ergebnis hängt von den präzisen Definitionen ab. Dabei ist es essentiell, ob man die Störung einzeln für jeden Quantenzustand charakterisiert oder das prinzipielle Störungsvermögen der Messapparatur für alle Zustände.
50 Jahre CP‐Verletzung
Authors: Kellerbauer Alban
Published: July 2014

Vor fünfzig Jahren wurde entdeckt, dass in Zerfallsprozessen, in denen die schwache Wechselwirkung dominiert, die CP‐Symmetrie verletzt sein kann. C steht für Ladungsumkehr, P für Raumspiegelung. Heute ist die CP‐Verletzung ein fester Bestandteil des Standardmodells der Teilchenphysik. Die vorhergesagten Symmetriebrechungen sind in verschiedenen schwachen Prozessen mit hoher Genauigkeit überprüft worden. Dabei wurden bislang keine Abweichungen vom Standardmodell gefunden. Die Suche nach CP‐Verletzungen bleibt sowohl im Rahmen als auch außerhalb des Standardmodells ein wichtiges Forschungsthema. Es kann die Frage beantworten helfen, warum nach dem Urknall ein kleiner Überschuss an Materie gegenüber der Antimaterie übrig blieb.
Molekülketten als kleinste mechanische Resonatoren
Authors: Müllegger Stefan , Koch Reinhold
Published: July 2014

Nanomechanische Resonatoren sind winzige vibrierende Balken, die bei sehr hohen Frequenzen schwingen. Ihre Schwingungsfrequenz hängt empfindlich von ihrer Masse und Steifigkeit ab, was eine Detektion von winzigen Objekten, wie Molekülen oder Viren, durch eine genaue Frequenzmessung ermöglicht. Unserer Gruppe ist die Herstellung und Charakterisierung der kleinsten nanomechanischen Resonatoren gelungen, die aus nur vier einzelnen Molekülen bestehen. Dadurch eignen sie sich besonders als Sensoren mit Einzelmolekül‐Empfindlichkeit.
Flackernde Entladungslampen unter der (Zeit‐)lupe
Authors: Vollmer Michael , Möllmann Klaus‐Peter
Published: July 2014

Wer kennt es nicht, das Flackern von Lampen, das bei empfindlichen Menschen Kopfschmerzen verursachen kann? So etwas kann bei Entladungsröhren mit ungünstigen Eigenschaften der phosphorisierenden Beschichtung auftreten. Mit moderner Technik lässt sich dieses Problem lösen. Hochgeschwindigkeits‐Videos zeigen verschiedene Phänomene, die beim Betrieb von Entladungsröhren auftreten.
Beleuchtungsstärken mit AndroSensor messen
Authors: Klein Pascal , Kuhn Jochen , Wilhelm Thomas , Lück Stephan
Published: July 2014

Smartphones verfügen über eine Reihe von Sensoren, beispielsweise für Beschleunigungen, Magnetfelder, Luftdruck, Temperatur und Luftfeuchtigkeit. Die App AndroSensor liest diese Sensoren bei Android‐Smartphones aus. Verfügt das Gerät zudem über einen Lichtstärkesensor, so lassen sich damit interessante Experimente ausführen.
Achtung Aquaplaning
Authors: Schlichting Hans Joachim
Published: July 2014

Große rotierende Granitkugeln im öffentlichen Raum sind entgegen allem Anschein High‐Tech‐Produkte. Sie driften auf einem sehr dünnen Wasserfilm. Die Kugel muss daher äußerst präzise gearbeitet sein.
Photochromism of a novel asymmetrical diarylethene with a (formyloxyethoxy)ethyl‐linked naphthalimide moiety
Authors: Li Xue , Liu Gang , Pu Shouzhi
Published: July 2014

A novel asymmetrical diarylethene with a (formyloxyethoxy)ethyl‐linked naphthalimide unit was synthesized, and its photochromic and fluorescence properties were systematically investigated in both solution and a poly(metyl methacrylate) film. The diarylethene showed significant photochromism and notable fluorescence switching properties upon irradiation with ultraviolet/visible light. Compared with the parent diarylethene, introduction of the naphthalimide moiety was effective to increase the molar absorption coefficient, the fluorescence quantum yield, and fluorescent modulation efficiency of the diarylethene. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atmospheric Pressure Gas–Liquid Diffuse Nanosecond Pulse Discharge Used for Sterilization in Sewage
Authors: Yang De‐Zheng , Jia Li , Wang Wen‐Chun , Wang Sen , Jiang Peng‐Chao , Zhang Shuai , Yu Qing‐Xu , Chen Guang‐Liang
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we present a large area nanosecond pulse gas‐liquid diffuse discharge plasma with small flow rate of helium as working gas. The discharge images, the waveforms of pulse voltage & current, the emission spectra, and the gas temperature are measured or calculated. As a energy‐efficient sterilization for sewage, the efficiency of sewage sterilization in both static liquid and flowed liquid are investigated. It is found that an optimal value of helium gas flow rate in the production of reactive oxygen species (OH, O) can be obtained when the He flow rate is 5 ml min−1, under this condition, high inactivation efficiencies of bacteria and fungus can be presented.
The effect of vitamin D on airway reactivity and inflammation in asthmatic children: A double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Bar Yoseph Ronen , Livnat Galit , Schnapp Zeev , Hakim Fahed , Dabbah Husein , Goldbart Aviv , Bentur Lea
Published: July 2014

Background

Cross‐sectional studies have reported an association of vitamin D deficiency with increased asthma prevalence and severity, and with allergies. The effect of vitamin D as sole therapy on airway hyper‐reactivity (AHR) and airway inflammation has not been reported.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of vitamin D therapy on AHR as assessed by methacholine concentration, causing a 20% reduction in FEV1 (PC20‐FEV1) and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), systemic markers of allergy and inflammation, and exhaled breath condensate cytokines.

Patients and Methods

Children aged 6–18 years with a clinical diagnosis of mild asthma currently not receiving anti‐inflammatory therapy and with low vitamin D levels were included in this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study assessing the effect of 6 weeks of treatment with oral vitamin D 14,000 units once weekly or placebo.

Results

Of the 39 patients included, 20 received vitamin D treatment and 19 received a placebo. Vitamin D replacement resulted in a significant increase in vitamin levels, which remained unchanged in the placebo group (P < 0.0001). There was no change in IgE, eosinophil count, high sensitivity C‐reactive protein, FeNO levels or PC20‐FEV1 following treatment. Similar values of exhaled breath condensate cytokines (IL4, IL5, IL10, IL17, and γ interferon) were observed in both groups.

Conclusions

In our small group of children with mild asthma, no difference could be demonstrated between the effect of vitamin D and placebo, despite significant increases in vitamin D blood levels. Larger interventional studies are needed to fully explore the possible effect of vitamin D in asthma. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:747–753. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A high‐resolution structure of the EF‐hand domain of human polycystin‐2
Authors: Allen Mark D. , Qamar Seema , Vadivelu Murali K. , Sandford Richard N. , Bycroft Mark
Published: July 2014

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) affects over 1:1000 of the worldwide population and is caused by mutations in two genes, PKD1 and PKD2. PKD2 encodes a 968‐amino acid membrane spanning protein, Polycystin‐2 (PC‐2), which is a member of the TRP ion channel family. The C‐terminal cytoplasmic tail contains an EF‐hand motif followed by a short coiled‐coil domain. We have determined the structure of the EF‐hand region of PC‐2 using NMR spectroscopy. The use of different boundaries, compared with those used in previous studies, have enabled us to determine a high resolution structure and show that the EF hand motif forms a standard calcium‐binding pocket. The affinity of this pocket for calcium has been measured and mutants that both decrease and increase its affinity for the metal ion have been created.
‘I Already Know the City, I Don't Have to Explore it’: Adjustments to ‘Sense of Place’ for ‘Local’ UK University Students
Authors: Holton Mark
Published: July 2014

Recent conceptualisations of place have sought to reconsider place as being the sedentary equivalent to mobility, instead recognising its dynamism and its potential for evoking powerful emotional responses. These notions hold particular resonance in the realm of higher education, with discussions emerging of the important influence place may hold for students as they progress through university. Although this has been recognised from the perspective of ‘mobile’ students, what is less clear is how these notions of place might influence the trajectories of ‘local’ students, specifically how feelings of place disruption or identity dislocation might spill out into their non‐student lives and their wider sense of ‘being’ students (or non‐students) within what are often highly emotive and memory‐laden places. This is important as the process of ‘re‐sensing’ place through the lens of a student may challenge long‐established conceptions of the city for ‘local’ students. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of medical thoracoscopy in diagnosis of sarcoidosis‐related pleural effusion
Authors: Wang Feng , Tong Zhaohui , Wang Zhen , Wang Xiaojuan , Zhan Xi , Shi Huanzhong
Published: July 2014

Pleural effusion caused by sarcoidosis is unusual. Medical thoracoscopy could help clinicians detect associated pleural disease, yet studies on thoracoscopic observations in sarcoidosis pleural involvement are rare. In this article, we report the utility of medical thoracoscopy in diagnosing sarcoid‐related pleural disease for three patients. Pleural nodularity was common with solitary and multiple nodules evident; biopsies confirmed the presence of diagnostic noncaseating granulomas.
A 3D In Vitro Cancer Model as a Platform for Nanoparticle Uptake and Imaging Investigations
Authors: Ricketts Kate P. M. , Cheema Umber , Nyga Agata , Castoldi Andrea , Guazzoni Chiara , Magdeldin Tarig , Emberton Mark , Gibson Adam P. , Royle Gary J. , Loizidou Marilena
Published: July 2014

In order to maximize the potential of nanoparticles (NPs) in cancer imaging and therapy, their mechanisms of interaction with host tissue need to be fully understood. NP uptake is known to be dramatically influenced by the tumor microenvironment, and an imaging platform that could replicate in vivo cellular conditions would make big strides in NP uptake studies. Here, a novel NP uptake platform consisting of a tissue‐engineered 3D in vitro cancer model (tumoroid), which mimics the microarchitecture of a solid cancer mass and stroma, is presented. As the tumoroid exhibits fundamental characteristics of solid cancer tissue and its cellular and biochemical parameters are controllable, it provides a real alternative to animal models. Furthermore, an X‐ray fluorescence imaging system is developed to demonstrate 3D imaging of GNPs and to determine uptake efficiency within the tumoroid. This platform has implications for optimizing the targeted delivery of NPs to cells to benefit cancer diagnostics and therapy.
Synthesis of Honeycomb‐like Mesoporous Pyrite FeS2 Microspheres as Efficient Counter Electrode in Quantum Dots Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Xu Jun , Xue Hongtao , Yang Xia , Wei Huaixin , Li Wenyue , Li Zhangpeng , Zhang Wenjun , Lee Chun‐Sing
Published: July 2014

Honeycomb‐like mesoporous pyrite FeS2 microspheres, with diameters of 500–800 nm and pore sizes of 25–30 nm, are synthesized by a simple solvothermal approach. The mesoporous FeS2 microspheres are demonstrated to be an outstanding counter electrode (CE) material in quantum dot sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) for electrocatalyzing polysulfide electrolyte regeneration. The cell using mesoporous FeS2 microspheres as CE shows 86.6% enhancement in power conversion efficiency (PCE) than the cell using traditional noble Pt CE. Furthermore, it also shows 11.4% enhancement in PCE than the cell using solid FeS2 microspheres as CE, due to the mesoporous structure facilitating better contact with polysulfide electrolyte and fast diffusion of redox couple species in electrolyte.