bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin B12, folate, and the methionine remethylation cycle—biochemistry, pathways, and regulation
Authors: Froese D. Sean , Fowler Brian , Baumgartner Matthias R.
Published: January 2019

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, Cbl) is a nutrient essential to human health. Due to its complex structure and dual cofactor forms, Cbl undergoes a complicated series of absorptive and processing steps before serving as cofactor for the enzymes methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase and methionine synthase. Methylmalonyl‐CoA mutase is required for the catabolism of certain (branched‐chain) amino acids into an anaplerotic substrate in the mitochondrion, and dysfunction of the enzyme itself or in production of its cofactor adenosyl‐Cbl result in an inability to successfully undergo protein catabolism with concomitant mitochondrial energy disruption. Methionine synthase catalyzes the methyl‐Cbl dependent (re)methylation of homocysteine to methionine within the methionine cycle; a reaction required to produce this essential amino acid and generate S‐adenosylmethionine, the most important cellular methyl‐donor. Disruption of methionine synthase has wide‐ranging implications for all methylation‐dependent reactions, including epigenetic modification, but also for the intracellular folate pathway, since methionine synthase uses 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate as a one‐carbon donor. Folate‐bound one‐carbon units are also required for deoxythymidine monophosphate and de novo purine synthesis; therefore, the flow of single carbon units to each of these pathways must be regulated based on cellular needs. This review provides an overview on Cbl metabolism with a brief description of absorption and intracellular metabolic pathways. It also provides a description of folate‐mediated one‐carbon metabolism and its intersection with Cbl at the methionine cycle. Finally, a summary of recent advances in understanding of how both pathways are regulated is presented.
A simple and efficient automated cGMP‐compliant radiosynthesis of [11C]metomidate using solid phase extraction cartridge purification
Authors: Kovac Mitja , Miklovicz Tunde , Li Lei , Russell Joseph , Canales Candela Roberto , Aigbirhio Franklin , Boros Istvan
Published: January 2019

[11C]metomidate ([11C]MTO) is a radiotracer widely used to detect disorders of adrenocortical origin by positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. [11C]MTO PET/computed tomography (PET/CT) is considered a sensitive and specific noninvasive alternative to adrenal vein sampling (AVS) in the management of primary hyperaldosteronism (PHA). Herein, we report a reliable automated procedure for the routine manufacturing of [11C]MTO in current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) conditions on the commercial Synthra MeIPlus Loop Vessel synthesizer. The method is based on a combination of the captive‐solvent 11C‐methylation of the carboxylate salt 1b of the MTO precursor 1a followed by solid phase extraction (SPE) cartridge purification methodology, which substitutes HPLC purification of the crude reaction mixture. Starting from 45 GBq [11C]CO2 at the end of bombardment (EOB), 3 GBq of pure [11C]MTO was produced in 18 minutes with 12% decay corrected radiochemical yield (RCY) at the end of synthesis (EOS) and with the modest molar activity of 13 GBq/μmol at the time of application. Each dose produced met all established quality control (QC) criteria. The method can easily be implemented into other commercial automated radiosynthesizers for manufacturing carbon‐11 labeled radiotracers.
Screening for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Refugees: Comparison of the Diagnostic Efficiency of Two Self‐Rating Measures of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Wulfes Nele , del Pozo Melina Andrea , Buhr‐Riehm Brigitte , Heinrichs Nina , Kröger Christoph
Published: January 2019

There is a high prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the refugee population. In order to identify affected individuals and offer targeted help, there is an urgent need for easily understandable, reliable, valid, and efficient screening measures. The aim of the present study was to compare the diagnostic efficiency of the Process of Recognition and Orientation of Torture Victims in European Countries to Facilitate Care and Treatment (PROTECT) questionnaire (PQ) to that of the eight‐item short‐form Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale (PDS‐8) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9). Using structured clinical interviews, the prevalence rates of PTSD and major depression episode (MDE) were assessed in a refugee sample (N = 118), and receiver operating characteristic analyses were determined and compared. Of participants in the sample, 29.7%, 95% CI [22.0%, 38.5%], were diagnosed with PTSD and 33.1%, 95% CI [24.4%, 41.9%], were diagnosed with MDE. The area under the curve (AUC) for all measures was moderate, AUCs = 0.79–0.86; hence, measures did not differ in terms of their discriminatory abilities. Using the favored cutoff points, sensitivity and specificity were 80–97% and 60–70%, respectively. In terms of their discriminatory abilities, none of the investigated measures can be favored more than the others. Thus, for detection of these two disorders, the shorter PQ could be more efficient. Because the high co‐occurrence of PTSD and MDE might limit the explanatory power of results in the present study, the findings should be cross‐validated in the future.
Exploring Contextual Trauma in Cambodia: A Sociointerpersonal Perspective on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Armes Stephanie E. , Seponski Desiree M. , Kao Sovandara , Khann Sareth , Lahar Cindy J. , Bryant Chalandra M. , Bride Brian E. , Wickrama Kanudra S. , Bunnak Poch , Schunert Tanja
Published: January 2019

Trauma literature has proposed multiple theories of trauma development, maintenance, and transmission, which has led to a lack of clarity surrounding trauma in individuals, families, and communities. We investigated the impact of community‐level trauma experiences on individual posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms using a sociointerpersonal model of PTSD (Maerker & Horn, 2013). A nationally representative sample (N = 2, 690) of Cambodian households across all regions of the country was surveyed regarding individual trauma experiences during and after the Khmer Rouge regime, symptoms of PTSD, and current stressors. Individual experiences of war trauma and current stressors were aggregated based on the district in which each individual lived. District mean and individual war trauma and current stressors were included in a multilevel model as predictors of individual levels of PTSD. Findings indicated that mean trauma experiences, β = .05, p < .001, and current stressors, β = .10, p < .001, in the district in which individuals live were positively and significantly associated with their individual PTSD symptoms. Individual war trauma, β = .02, p < .001, and current stressors, β = .08, p < .001, were also positively and significantly associated with individual PTSD symptoms. District trauma experiences accounted for 7% of the variance in individual PTSD symptoms, R2Level 1 = .21, R2Level 2 = .80. Additionally, current stressors at both the individual and district levels had a greater impact on individual PTSD symptoms than war trauma at either level of the model. Implications for policy and intervention are presented.
Potential Utility of Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound in the Preoperative Evaluation of Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Parra Ramírez Paola , Santiago Hernando Antonio , Barquiel Alcalá Beatriz , Martín Rojas‐Marcos Patricia , Lisbona Catalán Arturo , Álvarez Escolá Cristina
Published: January 2019

Objectives

We aimed to compare the effectiveness of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), technetium Tc 99m methoxyisobutylisonitrile (99mTc‐MIBI) single‐photon emission computed tomographic (SPECT) scintigraphy, and high‐resolution ultrasound (US) in the detection of a pathologic parathyroid gland in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT).

Methods

Twenty‐nine consecutive patients with pHPT were prospectively enrolled and underwent preoperative imaging with 99mTc‐MIBI SPECT scintigraphy, high‐resolution US, and CEUS and subsequent parathyroidectomy. Contrast‐enhanced US examinations were performed by an experienced examiner who was blinded to the results of scintigraphy and high‐resolution US. The diagnostic performance of all of the imaging tests was analyzed in comparison with the pathologic anatomic findings. All investigations were performed at La Paz University Hospital.

Results

In the 29 patients (22 female and 7 male), a total of 31 parathyroid adenomas were detected: single lesions in 27 patients and a double lesion in 2 patients. Contrast‐enhanced US revealed sensitivity of 66.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 46%–82.7%) for detection of single adenomas in comparison with 77.8 % (95% CI, 57.3%–90.6) for 99mTc‐MIBI SPECT scintigraphy and 51.8% (95% CI, 32.3%–70.8%) for high‐resolution US (P = .100). With CEUS, double adenomas could be detected in both cases (sensitivity, 100%); however, scintigraphy and high‐resolution US did not detect any cases of double adenomas. In addition, CEUS allowed the differentiation of lymphatic nodes from parathyroid glands in 2 patients. No side effects were observed for CEUS.

Conclusions

In our study, CEUS facilitated the detection and diagnosis of double adenomas compared with high‐resolution US and 99mTc‐MIBI SPECT scintigraphy. Additionally, CEUS was useful in the differentiation between parathyroid adenomas and lymph nodes.
Otolaryngology boot camps: Current landscape and future directions
Authors: Dean Kelly M. , DeMason Christine E. , Choi Sukgi S. , Malloy Kelly M. , Malekzadeh Sonya
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Simulation‐based boot camps have gained popularity over the past few years, with some surgical specialties implementing mandatory national boot camps. However, there is no consensus in otolaryngology on boot camp timing, learner level, or curriculum. The purpose of this study is to examine the current landscape and gather opinions regarding future curriculum and standardization of boot camps in otolaryngology.

Methods

A survey was developed to examine current resident participation and boot camp content while also seeking opinions regarding improving boot camp enrollment and standardizing curriculum. A cross‐sectional survey of all otolaryngology residency program directors in the United States and Puerto Rico was performed via SurveyMonkey. Responses were collected anonymously, and results were analyzed by descriptive statistical analysis.

Results

Of the 45% (48 of 106) who responded, 76.6% reported their residents participate in boot camps. The most common skills taught were basic suturing and airway management skills. The majority (95%) was likely to send residents to a local boot camp, with 56% favoring early postgraduate year (PGY)‐1 participation and 42% favoring a 1‐day boot camp. Subsidized expenses, improved regional access, and supplementary boot camp information would help the program director in their decision to send residents to boot camp. Only 32% felt boot camps should be standardized, and 27% felt they should be mandatory.

Conclusion

Many otolaryngology residency programs participate in boot camps. Additional data on the benefits of boot camps, improved access, and reduced financial burden may improve participation. Further discussion of ideal timing, PGY level, and standardized curriculum should occur in conjunction with the otolaryngology academic societies and oversight from accreditation and certifying bodies.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:2707–2712, 2019
Contrasting arsenic cycling in strongly and weakly stratified contaminated lakes: Evidence for temperature control on sediment–water arsenic fluxes
Authors: Barrett P. M. , Hull E. A. , Burkart K. , Hargrave O. , McLean J. , Taylor V. F. , Jackson B. P. , Gawel J. E. , Neumann R. B.
Published: January 2019

Arsenic contamination of lakebed sediments is widespread due to a range of human activities, including herbicide application, waste disposal, mining, and smelter operations. The threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health is dependent on the degree of mobilization from sediments into overlying water columns and exposure of aquatic organisms. We undertook a mechanistic investigation of arsenic cycling in two impacted lakes within the Puget Sound region, a shallow weakly stratified lake and a deep seasonally stratified lake, with similar levels of lakebed arsenic contamination. We found that the processes that cycle arsenic between sediments and the water column differed greatly in shallow and deep lakes. In the shallow lake, seasonal temperature increases at the lakebed surface resulted in high porewater arsenic concentrations that drove larger diffusive fluxes of arsenic across the sediment–water interface compared to the deep, stratified lake where the lakebed remained ~10°C cooler. Plankton in the shallow lake accumulated up to an order of magnitude more arsenic than plankton in the deep lake due to elevated aqueous arsenic concentrations in oxygenated waters and low phosphate : arsenate ratios in the shallow lake. As a result, strong arsenic mobilization from sediments in the shallow lake was countered by large arsenic sedimentation rates out of the water column driven by plankton settling.
Cationic Poly([R]‐3‐hydroxybutyrate) Copolymers as Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Liow Sing Shy , Chee Pei Lin , Owh Cally , Zhang Kangyi , Zhou Yubin , Gao Feng , Lakshminarayanan Rajamani , Loh Xian Jun
Published: January 2019

Poly([R]‐3‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), a natural biodegradable polyester, has attracted much attention as a new biomaterial because of its sustainability and good biocompatibility. In this study, it is discovered that PHB can be conveniently functionalized to obtain a number of platform chain architectures that may provide a wide range of functional copolymers. In a transesterification reaction, linear (di‐hydroxylated) and star shaped (tri‐ and tetra‐hydroxylated) PHB oligomers are synthesized, followed by copolymerization with 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate and quaternization with benzyl bromide to afford antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial activities of the quaternary salts against clinically relevant pathogens on the interactions with outer and cytoplasmic membranes, lethal mechanisms, multipassage resistance, and synergy effect with antibiotics are investigated. Cationic PHB copolymers show effectiveness as antimicrobial agents, with minimum inhibitory concentration values 0.24–0.65 µm (or µmol dm−3) (or 32–128 µg mL−1) against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. Modifying the copolymer architectures into star shapes results in enhanced effectiveness to disrupt the membrane integrity. Synergistic effects are attained for all the quaternized PHB derivatives when they are used together with tobramycin. Multipassage resistance does not occur in both the linear and star derivatives against Gram‐negative bacteria after 20 passages.
Heteroatoms and π electrons as favorable factors for efficient corrosion protection
Authors: Kaczerewska Olga , Leiva‐Garcia Rafael , Akid Robert , Brycki Bogumił , Kowalczyk Iwona , Pospieszny Tomasz
Published: January 2019

Six corrosion inhibitors based on dimeric quaternary ammonium salts (gemini surfactants) with a flexible/rigid spacer have been tested for stainless steel in 3 M HCl. Potentiodynamic polarization (linear polarization resistance, Tafel slopes) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy have been used to determine the corrosion inhibition efficiency of the compounds. The results suggest that inhibitors act as anodic/cathodic inhibitors. The highest corrosion inhibition efficiency has been reached around the values of the critical micellar concentration for each inhibitor. Scanning electron microscopy has been applied to study the surface of the stainless steel samples. Theoretical studies of the inhibitors have been run based on density functional theory.
The influence of alloying elements on metal dusting behavior of nickel chromium alloys and their statistical correlation
Authors: Hattendorf Heike , Hermse Chrétien G.M. , IJzerman Richard M.
Published: January 2019

The focus in this study is on very metal dusting resistant nickel chromium alloys with a high content of chromium (in the range of 22 to 33 wt.%), additions of aluminum (between 0 and 3 wt.%) and variable iron content (between 0.1 and 15 wt.%). All samples were exposed up to 5693 h at 600 °C in a 37 vol.% CO, 7 vol.% CO2, 46 vol.% H2, 9 vol.% H2O atmosphere at a total pressure 20 bar. The differences between the samples in terms of mass loss, pit depth and incubation time to first pit are evaluated by a statistical analysis and discussed in dependence of alloy composition. Only samples with combined chromium plus aluminum content of about 30 wt.% or more and an iron content of 0.6 wt.% or less do not show any pit formation during the exposure time, even on the edges. In contrast, samples with a similar combined chromium plus aluminum content, but with a higher iron content, do show pit formation due to metal dusting corrosion.
Alteration of the tumor suppressor SARDH in sporadic colorectal cancer: A functional and transcriptome profiling‐based study
Authors: He Hongjuan , Chen Erfei , Lei Lei , Yan Bianbian , Zhao Xiaojuan , Zhu Ziqing , Li Qiqi , Zhang Pan , Zhang Wei , Xing Jinliang , Du Le , Dong Jing , Yang Jin
Published: January 2019

Sporadic colorectal cancer (sCRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death worldwide. As a highly heterogeneous complex disease, the currently reported classical genetic markers for sCRC, including APC, KRAS, BRAF, and TP53 gene mutations and epigenetic alterations, can explain only some sCRC patients. Here, we first reported a deleterious c.551C>T mutation in SARDH in sCRC. SARDH was identified as a novel tumor suppressor gene and was abnormally decreased in sCRC at both the transcriptional and the translational level. SARDH mRNA levels were also down‐regulated in oesophageal cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, and pancreatic cancer in the TCGA database. SARDH overexpression inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of CRC cell lines, whereas its depletion improved these processes. SARDH overexpression was down‐regulated in multiple pathways, especially in the chemokine pathway. The SARDH transcript level was positively correlated with the methylation states of CXCL1 and CCL20. Therefore, we concluded that SARDH depletion is involved in the development of sCRC.
Mutation analysis of common deafness genes among 1,201 patients with non‐syndromic hearing loss in Shanxi Province
Authors: Zhou Yongan , Li Chao , Li Min , Zhao Zhonghua , Tian Shuxiong , Xia Hou , Liu Peixian , Han Yaxin , Ren Ruirui , Chen Jianping , Jia Caihong , Guo Wei
Published: January 2019

Background

Hearing impairment is one of most frequent birth defects, which affects nearly 1 in every 1,000 live births. However, the molecular etiology of non‐syndromic deafness in China is not well studied. Here, we have investigated the presence of mutations in three genes commonly mutated in non‐syndromic deafness patients in Shanxi Province, which has the highest frequency of birth defects in China.

Methods

In total, 1,201 unrelated non‐syndromic deafness patients and 300 healthy individuals were enrolled. The hearing ability was confirmed by audiologic evaluation. Three major deafness‐related genes (GJB2, SLC26A4 (PDS), and mtDNA 12S rRNA) of all individuals enrolled were analyzed by Sanger sequencing.

Results

The results showed that GJB2 mutations accounted for 21.23% (255/1,201) in the patient group, with c.235delC, a hotspot mutation, accounting for 10.99% (132/1,201). Moreover, 11 new GJB2 mutations were identified. SLC26A4 mutations accounted for 9.33% (112/1,201) in the patient group, with IVS7‐2A>G as the most prevalent mutation accounting for 4.75% (57/1,201). In addition, 15 patients (1.25%) were found to carry mtDNA 12S rRNA c.1555A>G mutation, while only two cases had the mtDNA 12S rRNA c.1494C>T.

Conclusion

In our research, it was found that c.235delC in GJB2 and c.919‐2A>G (IVS7‐2A>G) in SLC26A4 were the highest frequency pathogenic variants in Shanxi Province. Taken together, our data will enrich the database of deafness mutations and will help clinical diagnosis, treatment, and genetic counseling of hearing impairment.
Anxiety, depression dominate concerns among college students
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2019

College students seeking treatment and the professionals who treat them continue to identify anxiety and depression as the most common concerns for seeking treatment, among dozens of other concerns, according to the 10th annual report released Jan. 16 by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH) at Penn State.
Florida BH agency, law enforcement partner to divert arrests
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2019

Citing a recommendation from the local sheriff's office to identify individuals who may be falling through the cracks in Florida's law enforcement system, a community‐based behavioral health care organization is partnering with the agency to provide mental health support and divert them from arrest.
SAR raw data simulation for multiple‐input multiple‐output video synthetic aperture radar using beat frequency division frequency modulated continuous wave
Authors: Kim Seok , Ka Min‐Ho
Published: January 2019

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) raw data simulation, operating under various scenarios, and realistic environments, are necessary for analyzing and verifying the performance aspects of SAR systems and the various algorithms used in them. In this article, we propose a method to simulate the raw data generated by multiple‐input multiple‐output video synthetic aperture radar (MIMO ViSAR) from a speckled scene, using beat frequency division (BFD) frequency‐modulated continuous wave (FMCW). Using an optical image as a reflectivity map for a realistic scene, we first multiply a speckle noise with this image to generate a speckled reflectivity map. We then compute the two‐dimensional convolutions of a SAR point spread function of a MIMO ViSAR system with the speckled reflectivity map to generate a complex SAR image. Finally, the SAR raw data is generated through inverse processing of the MIMO ViSAR system. We use the synthesized raw data to reconstruct SAR images, based on our previously proposed MIMO ViSAR signal‐processing algorithm, to demonstrate and verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Use of dielectric padding to eliminate low convective field artifact in cr‐MREPT conductivity images
Authors: Yildiz Gulsah , Ider Yusuf Ziya
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Convection–reaction equation‐based magnetic resonance electrical properties tomography (cr‐MREPT) provides conductivity images that are boundary artifact‐free and robust against noise. However, these images suffer from the low convective field (LCF) artifact. We propose to use dielectric pads to alter the transmit magnetic field (B1+), shift the LCF region, and eliminate the LCF artifact.

Methods

Computer simulations were conducted to analyze the effects of pad electrical properties, pad thickness, pad height, arc angle, and thickness of the pad–object gap. In 3T MR experiments, water pads and BaTiO3 pads were used with agar–saline phantoms. Two data sets (e.g., with the pad located on the left or on the right of the object [phantom]) were acquired, and the corresponding linear systems were simultaneously solved to get LCF artifact‐free conductivity images.

Results

A pad needed to have 180° arc angle and the same height with the phantom for maximum benefit. Increasing the pad thickness and/or the relative permittivity of the pad increased the LCF shift, whereas excessive amounts of these parameters caused errors in conductivity reconstructions because the effect of neglected Bz terms became noticeable. Conductivity of the pad, on the other hand, had minimal effect on elimination of the LCF artifact. Combining 2 data sets (i.e., with 2 different dielectric pad positions) resulted in more accurate conductivity maps (low L2‐errors) as opposed to no pad or single pad cases in experiments and simulations.

Conclusions

Using the proposed technique, LCF artifact is significantly removed, and the reconstructed conductivity values are improved.
Optimization of steady‐state pulsed CEST imaging for amide proton transfer at 3T MRI
Authors: Kim Byungjai , So Seohee , Park Hyunwook
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To optimize a steady‐state imaging sequence for maximizing the amide proton transfer effects in pulsed‐CEST (pCEST) imaging.

Method

The steady‐state pCEST (SS‐pCEST) sequence is a fast CEST imaging scheme that applies repetitive short RF pulses for generating CEST and acquiring MR imaging signal alternately. To maximize the obtainable amide proton transfer effects, the SS‐pCEST scheme is analyzed and optimized with respect to not only the imaging parameters but also the imaging schemes of the signal acquisition part. Three imaging parameters such as the flip angle and RF power for saturation and the flip angle for imaging are selected as factors affecting the obtainable CEST effects; and 2 imaging schemes, namely, SSFP and spoiled gradient echo sequences, are analyzed and compared for numerical simulations and MRI experiments at 3 tesla.

Results

SS‐pCEST combined with SSFP could provide higher amide proton transfer effects than that with spoiled gradient echo. Furthermore, in the proposed SS‐pCEST imaging with SSFP, 3 imaging parameters can be independently optimized so that the optimization complexities can be reduced.

Conclusion

We optimized the SS‐pCEST imaging method with SSFP to maximize the amide proton transfer effects. In addition, our analysis showed the SSFP sequence was more efficient than the spoiled gradient echo sequence for SS‐pCEST imaging.
Impact of socioeconomic markers on parents' retention of pediatric oncology home care education: A pilot study
Authors: Hentea Cristiana , Downs Stephen M. , Tucker Edmonds Brownsyne , Vik Terry , Wiehe Sarah E. , Cheng Erika R.
Published: January 2019

Little is known about the extent to which parents retain the education on how to manage home medical emergencies. We sought to describe retention of pediatric oncology home care education (POHCE) in a cohort of 24 parents of newly diagnosed children with cancer and investigate sociodemographic disparities in this retention. We measured retention using a vignette‐based survey instrument. The mean score was 4 (range 0–6, SD = 1.6) and parents with high school only education and those with limited cancer health literacy scored lowest (2.5 and 2.8, respectively). Future POHCE interventions can focus on parents’ literacy and education levels as predictors to tailor alternative education strategies.
Hypothalamic–pituitary function following childhood brain tumors: Analysis of prospective annual endocrine screening
Authors: Lawson Sarah A. , Horne Vincent E. , Golekoh Marjorie C. , Hornung Lindsey , Burns Karen C. , Fouladi Maryam , Rose Susan R.
Published: January 2019

Background

Outcomes for childhood brain tumors are now associated with a five‐year survival rate of 75%. Endocrine effects of brain tumors are common, occurring in 43% of patients by 10 years from tumor diagnosis. Optimal timing of screening for endocrinopathies remains undefined. We aim to identify incidence and timing of endocrinopathies following brain tumor diagnosis, to better refine screening guidelines.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients referred to our hospital's neuro‐oncology clinic for evaluation and treatment of brain tumors. Inclusion criteria were a positive history for brain tumor diagnosis and evaluation at our center. Data collection included demographics, tumor diagnosis, tumor therapy, and endocrinopathy diagnosis and timing. Laboratory data and clinical documentation were reviewed.

Results

Four hundred nineteen subjects were included for analysis. Tumor locations included supratentorial 158 (38%), posterior fossa 145 (35%), suprasellar 96 (23%), and upper spinal cord 20 (5%). Only 61% had undergone endocrine screening. Forty‐five percent of screened patients had endocrinopathies. Endocrinopathy diagnosis typically occurred within six years after tumor diagnosis. Tumor recurrence and repeated therapies increased the risk for endocrinopathies within the subsequent six years after tumor therapy. Higher rates of endocrinopathies were identified in patients who had received cranial irradiation for posterior fossa, supratentorial, or suprasellar tumors.

Conclusion

Endocrine screening should occur in childhood brain tumor survivors, particularly those who have received irradiation. Our study suggests that in children with brain tumors, the highest yield for finding a pituitary deficiency is within the first six years after tumor diagnosis and treatment. Screening should continue annually beyond six years, but with special attention in the subsequent six years after therapy for tumor recurrence. Prospective screening and endocrinology referral should be implemented in childhood brain tumor survivors.
Lung cancer symptom appraisal among people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Cunningham Yvonne , Wyke Sally , Blyth Kevin G. , Rigg Douglas , Macdonald Sara , Macleod Una , Harrow Stephen , Robb Kathryn A. , Whitaker Katriina L.
Published: January 2019

Objective

The incidence of lung cancer is four times higher in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) compared with the general population. Promotion of a shorter time from symptom onset to presentation is one potential strategy for earlier lung cancer diagnosis, but distinguishing respiratory symptoms can be difficult. We investigated how the experience of COPD influences symptom appraisal and help seeking for potential lung cancer symptoms.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with men (n = 17) and women (n = 23) aged 40 to 83 years with COPD. Topic guides drew on the integrated symptom‐response framework and covered symptom experience, interpretation, action, recognition, help seeking, evaluation, and reevaluation. We used the framework method to analyse the data.

Results

Participants said that they attributed chest symptoms to their COPD; no other cause was considered. Participants said that family/friends noticed changes in their symptoms and encouraged help seeking. Others felt isolated by their COPD because they could not get out, were fatigued, or were embarrassed. Participants visited health professionals frequently, but increased risk of lung cancer was not discussed.

Conclusions

Our study provides insight into different levels of influence on symptom appraisal and targets for intervention. Greater awareness of increased lung cancer risk and support to act on symptom changes is essential and could be achieved through a concerted information campaign. Health professionals working with people with COPD could also optimise appointments to support symptom appraisal of potential lung cancer symptoms.
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide in preterm‐born subjects: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Course Christopher W. , Kotecha Sailesh , Kotecha Sarah J.
Published: January 2019

Background

Decreased lung function is common in preterm‐born survivors. Increased fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) appears to be a reliable test for eosinophillic airway inflammation especially in asthma. We, systematically, reviewed the literature to compare FeNO levels in preterm‐born children and adults who did or did not have chronic lung disease of prematurity (CLD) in infancy with term‐born controls.

Methods

We searched eight databases up to February 2018. Studies comparing FeNO levels in preterm‐born subjects (<37 weeks’ gestation) in childhood and adulthood with and without (CLD) with term‐born subjects were identified and extracted by two reviewers. Data were analysed using Review Manager v5.3.

Results

From 6042 article titles, 183 full articles were screened for inclusion. Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen studies compared FeNO levels in preterm‐ and term‐born children and adults; 11 studies (preterm n = 640 and term n = 4005) were included in a meta‐analysis. The mean FeNO concentration difference between the preterm‐born and term‐born group was −0.74 (95% CI −1.88 to 0.41) ppb. For the six studies reporting data on CLD (preterm n = 204 and term n = 211) the mean difference for FeNO levels was −2.82 (95% CI −5.87 to 0.22) ppb between the preterm‐born CLD and term‐born groups.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that preterm born children with and without CLD have similar FeNO levels to term‐born children suggesting an alternative mechanism to eosinophilic inflammation for symptoms of wheezing and airway obstruction observed in preterm‐born subjects.
User interactions with “Alexa” in public academic space
Authors: Lopatovska Irene , Oropeza Heyrling
Published: February 2019

Intelligent personal assistants (IPAs), such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, Microsoft Cortana and others, offer an example of an emerging technology with an uncertain adoption path. Evidence on how users adopt this technology is scarce, often anecdotal, and usually focuses on private uses and contexts. We conducted a study to examine Amazon Alexa adoption in a public common area of an iSchool. The study data were obtained from Alexa logs, observations of the public space, an online questionnaire, and interviews with students. Overall, IPA adoption trends among students were similar to adoption trends in the broader population and included using IPAs primarily at home for weather checks, quick references, setting an alarm/timer, and other requests. However, in a public academic setting, user interactions with Alexa were primarily characterized by questions about Alexa's features, “opinions,” and rhetorical or mindless questions or requests. Such interactions might be explained in light of the device's novelty, user curiosity, and the anthropomorphizing of Alexa. Many participants ignored the device due to the lack of need to interact with it, lack of awareness, or perceived awkwardness of using it in a public space. The findings could be used to inform improvements of Alexa's features, educate potential adopters about its current functionality and limitations, and inspire directions for future research.
Effect of Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) inhibitors on androgen‐sensitive and castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells
Authors: Gaur Shikha , Gross Mitchell E. , Liao Chun‐Peng , Qian Bin , Shih Jean C.
Published: January 2019

Background

Monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) is best known for its role in neuro‐transmitter regulation. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are used to treat atypical depression. MAOA is highly expressed in high grade prostate cancer and modulates tumorigenesis and progression in prostate cancer. Here, we investigated the potential role of MAOA inhibitors (MAOAIs) in relation to the androgen receptor (AR) pathway and resistance to antiandrogen treatment in prostate cancer.

Methods

We examined MAOA expression and the effect of MAOI treatment in relation to AR‐targeted treatments using the LNCaP, C4‐2B, and 22Rv1 human prostate cancer cell lines. MAOA, AR‐full length (AR‐FL), AR splice variant 7 (AR‐V7), and PSA expression was evaluated in the presence of MAOAIs (clorgyline, phenelzine), androgenic ligand (R1881), and antiandrogen (enzalutamide) treatments. An enzalutamide resistance cell line was generated to test the effect of MAOAI treatment in this model.

Results

We observed that MAOAIs, particularly clorgyline and phenelzine, were effective at decreasing MAOA activity in human prostate cancer cells. MAOAIs significantly decreased growth of LNCaP, C4‐2B, and 22Rv1 cells and produced additive growth inhibitory effects when combined with enzalutamide. Clorgyline decreased expression of AR‐FL and AR‐V7 in 22Rv1 cells and was effective at decreasing growth of an enzalutamide‐resistant C4‐2B cell line with increased AR‐V7 expression.

Conclusions

MAOAIs decrease growth and proliferation of androgen‐sensitive and castration‐resistant prostate cancer cells. Clorgyline, in particular, decreases expression of AR‐FL and AR‐V7 expression and decreases growth of an enzalutamide‐resistant cell line. These findings provide preclinical validation of MAOA inhibitors either alone or in combination with antiandrogens for therapeutic intent in patients with advanced forms of prostate cancer.
Growth of PTCDA Films on Various Substrates Studied by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and Spectroscopy
Authors: Nicoara Nicoleta , Gómez‐Rodríguez José M. , Méndez Javier
Published: January 2019

The application of scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) to the study of structural and electronic properties of organic/inorganic systems is presented here. The investigation of PTCDA (3,4,9,10, perylene tetracarboxylic dianhydride, C24O6H8) on semiconductor or metal surfaces by means of STM/STS shows a wide diversity of results indicating a complex behavior of the PTCDA molecules. It has been found that the surface reactivity highly influences the PTCDA adsorption and growth properties. The degree of molecule–surface interaction can lead to randomly chemisorbed molecules on highly reactive substrates, to one‐dimensional row formation on moderately reactive surfaces and well‐ordered overlayers in the case of physisorbed PTCDA molecules on weakly reactive surfaces.
Lupeol, the major compound of the dichloromethane extract of Millettia macrophylla Benth (Fabaceae), displays estrogenic effects in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Zingue Stéphane , Ntsa Dieudonnée Mireille , Magne Nde Chantal Beatrice , Michel Thomas , Ndinteh Derek Tantoh , Clyne Colin , Njamen Dieudonné
Published: January 2019

The present work deals with the assessment of the in vitro and in vivo estrogenic effects of the triterpenoids (lupenone, lupeol, and stigmastenone) isolated from Millettia macrophylla extract. The in vitro estrogenicity was performed by a reporter gene assay and estrogen receptor‐α (ERα) target gene expression, whereas the in vivo estrogenicity was evaluated by a 3‐day uterotrophic assay in ovariectomized rats. As results, lupenone and lupeol did not transactivate ERα as well as ERβ of human embryonic kidney 293T (HEK293T) cells. However, lupeol seems to be antagonistic to estrogen (E2) only in HEK293T‐ERα (10−9 and 10−8 μM). Furthermore, lupeol slightly upregulated GREB1 gene expression at the concentration of 1 μM, suggesting a weak activation of endogenous ERα. In vivo, only lupeol at a dose of 1 mg/kg significantly increased the uterine wet weight (p < 0.05), uterine (p < 0.05), and vaginal (p < 0.01) epithelial heights. The concomitant administration of lupeol (1 mg/kg) with a pure antiestrogen fulvestrant abrogated its effects only in the vagina, whereas in combination with E2, lupeol exhibited a significant antiestrogen‐like effect in uterine wet weight and synergistic effects on endometrium. Lupeol has estrogenic effects that is partly through ERs transcriptional activity and does involve alternative mechanisms that are still to be uncovered.
Convective initiation and storm life cycles in convection‐permitting simulations of the Met Office Unified Model over South Africa
Authors: Keat William J. , Stein Thorwald H. M. , Phaduli Elelwani , Landman Stephanie , Becker Erik , Bopape Mary‐Jane M. , Hanley Kirsty E. , Lean Humphrey W. , Webster Stuart
Published: January 2019

Convective initiation is a challenge for convection‐permitting models due to its sensitivity to sub‐km processes. We evaluate the representation of convective storms and their initiation over South Africa during four summer months in Met Office Unified Model simulations at a 1.5‐km horizontal grid length. Storm size distributions from the model compare well with radar observations, but rainfall in the model is predominantly produced by large storms (50 km in diameter or larger) in the evening, whereas radar observations show that most rainfall occurs throughout the afternoon, from storms 10–50 km in diameter. In all months, the modelled maximum number of storm initiations occurs at least 2 hr prior to the radar‐observed maximum. However, the diurnal cycle of rainfall between the model and observations compares well, suggesting that the numerous storm initiations in the simulations do not produce much rainfall. Modelled storms are generally less intense than those in radar observations, especially in early summer. In February, when tropical influences dominate, the simulated storms are of similar intensity to observed storms. Simulated storms tend to reach their peak intensity in the first 15 min after initiation, then gradually become less intense as they grow. In radar observations, storms reach their peak intensity 15 min into their life cycle, stay intense as they grow larger, then gradually weaken after they have reached their maximum diameter. Two November case studies of severe convection are analysed in detail. A higher resolution grid length initiates convection slightly earlier (300 m as opposed to 1.5 km) with the same scientific settings. Two 1.5 km simulations that apply more subgrid mixing have delayed convective initiation. Analysis of soundings indicates little difference in the convective indices, suggesting that differences in convection may be attributed to the choice of subgrid mixing parameters.
Numerical solution of the conditionally averaged equations for representing net mass flux due to convection
Authors: Weller Hilary , McIntyre William A.
Published: January 2019

The representation of subgrid‐scale convection is a weak aspect of weather and climate prediction models and the assumption that no net mass is transported by convection in parametrizations is increasingly unrealistic as models enter the grey zone, partially resolving convection. The solution of conditionally averaged equations of motion (multifluid equations) is proposed in order to avoid this assumption. Separate continuity, temperature, and momentum equations are solved for inside and outside convective plumes, which interact via mass‐transfer terms, drag, and by a common pressure. This is not a convection scheme that can be used with an existing dynamical core—this requires a whole new model.

This article presents stable numerical methods for solving the multifluid equations, including large transfer terms between the environment and plume fluids. Without transfer terms, the two fluids are not sufficiently coupled and solutions diverge. Two transfer terms are presented, which couple the fluids together in order to stabilize the model: diffusion of mass between the fluids (similar to turbulent entrainment) and drag between the fluids. Transfer terms are also proposed to move buoyant air into the plume fluid and vice versa as would be needed to represent initialization and termination of subgrid‐scale convection. The transfer terms are limited (clipped in size) and solved implicitly in order to achieve bounded, stable solutions.

Results are presented for a well‐resolved warm bubble with rising air being transferred to the plume fluid. For stability, equations are formulated in advective rather than flux form and solved using bounded finite‐volume methods. Discretization choices are made to preserve boundedness and conservation of momentum and energy when mass is transferred between fluids.

The formulation of transfer terms in order to represent subgrid convection is the subject of future work.
A mission management system for complex aerial logistics by multiple unmanned aerial vehicles in MBZIRC 2017
Authors: Lee Jaehyun , Shim David Hyunchul , Cho Sungwook , Shin Heemin , Jung Sunggoo , Lee Dasol , Kang Jaemin
Published: January 2019

In this study, we present a system that manages multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for a search, pickup, and drop mission in the 2017 Mohamed Bin Zayed International Robotics Challenge (MBZIRC). Three UAVs picked up and dropped 23 circular and rectangular targets into a designated drop box. To control the operation of three UAVs flying over an arena of 90 × 60 m, we designed and integrated a set of technologies into our system: airspace allocation, communication framework among UAVs, anticollision based on geofencing, and a token‐based prioritization for coordination. The proposed UAV system uses a single GPS and its error of a few meters is solved by means of the following component technologies: (a) flight path generator based on one reference point, (b) vision‐based redefinition of a reference point for GPS correction, and (c) calibration of flight path to update the reference point. The pickup‐and‐drop mission is conducted via color‐ and shape‐based vision processing and a magnetic gripper to pickup and drop‐off the targets. Our proposed system is able to successfully manage three UAVs, recognize targets on the ground, and drop the targets into a drop box in the drop zone. Finally, we achieved fourth place among 18 teams in Challenge 3.
Camera‐trapping version 3.0: current constraints and future priorities for development
Authors: Glover‐Kapfer Paul , Soto‐Navarro Carolina A. , Wearn Oliver R.
Published: January 2019

Camera traps are a widely used tool in wildlife research and conservation, but in situ factors such as theft, poor performance in extreme environments and damage by wildlife may be hindering the effectiveness of the technology. However, we still know little about how widespread these constraints are and which are the priorities to solve in the short‐ and mid‐term. We present results from a global survey of camera‐trappers working across a diversity of institutions and habitats, and using camera traps for a range of purposes. We show that: (1) the major current constraints on effective camera‐trapping are cost, theft and sensor performance (with 66%, 50% and 42% of respondents respectively classifying those as important or extremely important barriers for camera‐trapping); (2) the most‐needed technological developments are related to sensor performance (faster triggering responses and higher sensitivity), resistance to extreme environmental conditions (extreme temperatures and high humidity) and automated filtering of blank images; and (3) there is considerable variation among camera trap manufacturers in user‐rated performance, and none of the manufacturer ratings exhibited a trend over time, despite improvements in the technology. Our results serve as valuable market research for both open‐source and commercial camera trap developers. On the basis of our survey of camera‐trappers, we foresee a transition towards camera‐trapping 3.0 in the near‐future, consisting of both more effective camera trap units, but also greater use of wireless data transmission, sensor networks, automation of processes using algorithms and better, more collaborative tools for managing and analysing camera trap data. Ultimately, this will increase the capacity of researchers and conservationists to implement coordinated wildlife monitoring at unprecedented scales.