bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer research in the United States: A critical review of current status and proposal for alternative models
Authors: Kantarjian Hagop M. , Prat Ferran , Steensma David P. , Kurzrock Razelle , Stewart David J. , Sekeres Mikkael A. , Leveque Joseph
Published: May 2018

This commentary reviews the evolution of the process of cancer research in the United States over the past 6 decades, from an academic‐based to drug industry‐based research, and the advantages and concerns. It proposes a new form of cancer research that involves the tumor‐specific cancer researchers as the primary drivers of the process, and outlines the benefits of such a model in relation to potential improved cost benefits, success rates, and research time lines.
Primary mediastinal histiocytic sarcoma presenting as pleural effusion
Authors: Jhuang Jie‐Yang , Chen Wei‐Yu , Chuang Shih‐Sung
Published: May 2018

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is a rare malignant neoplasm showing morphological and immunophenotypic features of mature tissue histiocytes. As HS may mimic non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) pathologically, before the era of immunohistochemistry, many previously reported cases were misdiagnosed NHL. Up to date, there are only a few reports delineating the cytological features in fine‐needle aspiration or bronchoalveolar lavage, but not in the effusion fluid yet. Herein, we report the case of a 61‐year‐old male with a mediastinal tumor presenting with malignant pleural effusion. The effusion cytology showed atypical epithelioid (histiocytoid) cells, both in loose clusters and a dispersed pattern, with scanty admixed inflammatory infiltrate. Distinct from the benign histiocytes, these tumor cells exhibited evident cytological atypia, including irregular nuclear contours, significant nuclear pleomorphism, brisk mitotic figures, and apoptotic bodies in the Papanicolaou stain. With the Liu stain, most tumor cells showed abundant blue‐gray cytoplasm, some with small cytoplasmic vacuoles and formation of pseudopods. Subsequent biopsies of the tumor nodules in the right lower lung and pleura showed diffuse sheets of neoplastic cells expressing CD4, CD45, CD68, and lysozyme by immunohistochemistry, confirming the diagnosis. Usually subtyping the lymphoma in the effusion fluid is not an important issue since most patients already have previously confirmed lymphoma. In rare situation, like our patient, the disease may present initially as a malignant effusion. Immunophenotyping using cell blocks and/or excisional specimens is mandatory for a definitive diagnosis.
Global status of diabetes prevention and prospects for action: A consensus statement
Authors: Ibrahim Mahmoud , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Aschner Pablo , Beseler Lucille , Cahn Avivit , Eckel Robert H. , Fischl Amy Hess , Guthrie George , Hill James O. , Kumwenda Mick , Leslie R. David , Olson Darin E. , Pozzilli Paolo , Weber Sandra L. , Umpierrez Guillermo E.
Published: May 2018

Primary prevention of type 2 diabetes (T2D) should be achievable through the implementation of early and sustainable measures. Several randomized control studies that found success in preventing the progression to T2D in high‐risk populations have identified early and intensive intervention based on an individualized prevention model as the key factor for participant benefit. The global prevalence of both overweight and obesity has now been widely recognized as the major epidemic of the 21st century. Obesity is a major risk factor for the progression from normal glucose tolerance to prediabetes and then to T2D. However, not all obese individuals will develop prediabetes or progress to diabetes. Intensive, multicomponent behavioural interventions for overweight and obese adults can lead to weight loss. Diabetes medications, including metformin, GLP‐1 agonists, glitazones, and acarbose, can be considered for selected high‐risk patients with prediabetes when lifestyle‐based programmes are proven unsuccessful. Nutrition education is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Also, physical activity is an integral part of the prediabetes management plan and one of the main pillars in the prevention of diabetes. Mobile phones, used extensively worldwide, can facilitate communication between health professionals and the general population, and have been shown to be helpful in the prevention of T2D. Universal screening is needed. Noninvasive risk scores should be used in all countries, but they should be locally validated in all ethnic populations focusing on cultural differences around the world. Lifestyle interventions reduce the progression to prediabetes and diabetes. Nevertheless, many questions still need to be answered.
Some like it hot: from individual to population responses of an arboreal arid‐zone gecko to local and distant climate
Authors: Grimm‐Seyfarth Annegret , Mihoub Jean‐Baptiste , Gruber Bernd , Henle Klaus
Published: May 2018

Accumulating evidence has demonstrated considerable impact of climate change on biodiversity, with terrestrial ectotherms being particularly vulnerable. While climate‐induced range shifts are often addressed in the literature, little is known about the underlying ecological responses at individual and population levels. Using a 30‐yr monitoring study of the long‐living nocturnal geckoGehyra variegatain arid Australia, we determined the relative contribution of climatic factors acting locally (temperature, rainfall) or distantly (La Niña induced flooding) on ecological processes ranging from traits at the individual level (body condition, body growth) to the demography at population level (survival, sexual maturity, population sizes). We also investigated whether thermoregulatory activity during both active (night) and resting (daytime) periods of the day can explain these responses.Gehyra variegataresponded to local and distant climatic effects. Both high temperatures and high water availability enhanced individual and demographic parameters. Moreover, the impact of water availability was scale independent as local rainfall and La Niña induced flooding compensated each other. When water availability was low, however, extremely high temperatures delayed body growth and sexual maturity while survival of individuals and population sizes remained stable. This suggests a trade‐off with traits at the individual level that may potentially buffer the consequences of adverse climatic conditions at the population level. Moreover, hot temperatures did not impact nocturnal nor diurnal behavior. Instead, only cool temperatures induced diurnal thermoregulatory behavior with individuals moving to exposed hollow branches and even outside tree hollows for sun‐basking during the day. Since diurnal behavioral thermoregulation likely induced costs on fitness, this could decrease performance at both individual and population level under cool temperatures. Our findings show that water availability rather than high temperature is the limiting factor in our focal population ofG. variegata. In contrast to previous studies, we stress that drier rather than warmer conditions are expected to be detrimental for nocturnal desert reptiles. Identifying the actual limiting climatic factors at different scales and their functional interactions at different ecological levels is critical to be able to predict reliably future population dynamics and support conservation planning in arid ecosystems.
Remote sensing of ecosystem trajectories as a proxy indicator for watershed water balance
Authors: Chasmer L.E. , Devito K.J. , Hopkinson C.D. , Petrone R.M.
Published: May 2018

Ecosystem trajectories are inextricably linked to hydrology; however, water availability is not easily observed within the landscape. The response of vegetation to soil water availability may provide an indicator of local hydrology and the resilience or sensitivity of ecosystems to long‐term changes in water balance. In this study, vegetation trajectories derived from Landsat Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index over a 22‐year period are used as an indicator of spatio‐temporal changes of watershed water balance and surface water storage within 6 proximal watersheds of the Boreal Plains ecozone of Alberta, Canada. The interactions between hydrology, topography, geology, and land cover type are examined as they relate to vegetation change.

In this study, we find that run‐off ratio (run‐off/precipitation) is greater within watersheds with greater variability of relief, compared within subhumid, wetland‐dominated watersheds (average = 0.35, 0.20, respectively), which experience lagged run‐off response. A 2‐year drought had a greater impact on vegetation trajectories within variable relief watersheds containing a high proportion of coarse‐grain surficial geology, compared with peatland‐dominated watersheds. The drought extended for an additional 1 to 2 years within 3 subhumid watersheds, reducing watershed run‐off to less than 50 mm per water year (November to October) in 2 watersheds. However, proportional area of decline of Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index was significantly less within these watersheds. The results of this study indicate that wetlands play an important role for local water balance and ecosystem maintenance during periods of water stress and should be considered within land use planning and reclamation strategies of the Boreal Plains.
Spatially explicit abundance estimation of a rare habitat specialist: implications forSECRstudy design
Authors: Kristensen Thea V. , Kovach Adrienne I.
Published: May 2018

Estimating abundance is an essential component of monitoring and recovery of rare species, and spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) models provide the means for robust density estimation. Previous work has elucidated principles ofSECRstudy design for large, generalist carnivores, but less attention has been paid to study design considerations for smaller species, with less extensive home ranges. Here, we integrated data from an intensive pilot study with simulation modeling to evaluate the influence of survey sampling intensity on precision and accuracy inSECRabundance estimation for a rare lagomorph that specializes on patchily distributed early‐successional habitats. Doing so, we obtained the first mark–recapture density estimates for the New England cottontail (Sylvilagus transitionalis). Capture probability and density on the landscape both impacted the required intensity of the sampling design. The optimal study design for robust estimation also required a greater number of traps relative to home range size or spatial extent than those recommended in priorSECRstudies. This divergence emphasizes thatSECRstudy design considerations will differ among organisms with varying spatial extent and habitat use. Demonstrating the appropriate sampling design for a study system is important prior to embarking in aSECRstudy. Integrating pilot empirical data with simulations provides a powerful means for optimizingSECRstudy design and for facilitating applicability ofSECRapproaches to a wider array of organisms with varying habitat and space use. This methodology may be employed in planning a monitoring program that maximizes effectiveness while minimizing cost and effort, as part of the adaptive management approach to monitor and recover rare or endangered species.
Effectiveness of a transition plan at discharge of patients hospitalized with heart failure: a before‐and‐after study
Authors: Garnier Antoine , Rouiller Nathalie , Gachoud David , Nachar Carole , Voirol Pierre , Griesser Anne‐Claude , Uhlmann Marc , Waeber Gérard , Lamy Olivier
Published: May 2018

Aims

We evaluated the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary transition plan to reduce early readmission among heart failure patients.

Methods and results

We conducted a before‐and‐after study in a tertiary internal medicine department, comparing 3 years of retrospective data (pre‐intervention) and 13 months of prospective data (intervention period). Intervention was the introduction in 2013 of a transition plan performed by a multidisciplinary team. We included all consecutive patients hospitalized with symptomatic heart failure and discharged to home. The outcomes were the fraction of days spent in hospital because of readmission, based on the sum of all days spent in hospital, and the rate of readmission. The same measurements were used for those with potentially avoidable readmissions. Four hundred thirty‐one patients were included and compared with 1441 patients in the pre‐intervention period. Of the 431 patients, 138 received the transition plan while 293 were non‐completers. Neither the fraction of days spent for readmissions nor the rate of readmission decreased during the intervention period. However, non‐completers had a higher rate of the fraction of days spent for 30 day readmission (19.2% vs. 16.1%, P = 0.002) and for potentially avoidable readmission (9.8% vs. 13.2%, P = 0.001). The rate of potentially avoidable readmission decreased from 11.3% (before) to 9.9% (non‐completers) and 8.7% (completers), reaching the adjusted expected range given by SQLape® (7.7–9.1%).

Conclusions

A transition plan, requiring many resources, could decrease potentially avoidable readmission but shows no benefit on overall readmission. Future research should focus on potentially avoidable readmissions and other indicators such as patient satisfaction, adverse drug events, or adherence.
Combining Stereoselective Enzyme Catalysis with Chirality‐Assisted Synthesis in Tribenzotriquinacene Chemistry
Authors: Rommelmann Philipp , Greschner Wilko , Ihrig Sarah , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Gröger Harald , Kuck Dietmar
Published: May 2018

The stereoselective synthesis of enantiomerically pure single‐wing‐functionalized tribenzotriquinacenes using the enzyme CAL‐B was successfully extended towards operating on a multi‐gram scale. Based on the (P)‐tribenzotriquinacene‐2‐carbaldehyde (P)‐6 obtained in >99 % ee, the hitherto unknown (P)‐2‐hydroxy‐ and (M)‐2‐hydroxy‐3‐iodo‐TBTQ derivatives (P)‐9 and (M)‐10 were prepared in optically pure form. The bowl‐shaped ortho‐iodophenol (M)‐10 was subjected to a twofold crosswise Ullmann‐type condensation to give, albeit in low yield (10 %), the 1,4‐dioxine 5, in which two TBTQ bowls are fused exclusively in a syn‐bi‐concave orientation, thus demonstrating a new example for a chirality‐assisted synthesis. The corresponding Ullmann condensation of the racemic TBTQ‐ortho‐iodophenol rac‐10 furnished the respective anti‐bis‐TBTQ‐dioxine 11 as the major diastereomer together with the syn‐isomer 5 in the same total yield and in a 11/5 ratio of at least 4. The two diastereomeric bis‐TBTQ‐dioxines show minor but significant differences in most of the characteristic 1H‐NMR chemical shifts. The solid‐state structure of the syn‐dimer 5, determined by X‐ray diffraction, was found to consist of pairs of host–guest complexes, [5·CH2Cl2]2, with pronounced face‐to‐face orientation of the bi‐concave host molecules.
Functionalization of Oxazolo[4,5‐b]pyrazines by Deprotometallation
Authors: Bisballe Niels , Hedidi Madani , Demmer Charles S. , Chevallier Floris , Roisnel Thierry , Dorcet Vincent , Halauko Yury S. , Ivashkevich Oleg A. , Matulis Vadim E. , Bentabed‐Ababsa Ghenia , Bunch Lennart , Mongin Florence
Published: May 2018

Different 2‐arylated oxazolo[4,5‐b]pyrazines, obtained by palladium(II)‐catalyzed domino reaction from 2,3‐dichloropyrazine and the corresponding carboxamides, were functionalized by deprotometallation. Employing lithium 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine, in order to form a lithio derivative, and then trapping it by iodolysis, proved to be inefficient. However, the presence of a zinc‐based in situ trap allowed most substrates to be functionalized. Deprotonation of the pyrazine ring was observed in the presence of tolyl and anisyl groups at the oxazole 2‐position. In contrast, with chlorophenyl and thienyl groups in this 2‐position, deprotonation rather occurred on these groups either competitively or exclusively. The regioselectivities were discussed in the light of calculated pKa values of the substrates in THF. Finally, in the case of 2‐phenyloxazolo[4,5‐b]pyrazine, we converted the mixture of 5‐ and 6‐iodinated products into the corresponding 5,6‐diiodide, which was further functionalized by a double Suzuki coupling.
Regioselective Fluorination of α‐Hydroxy‐β‐aminophosphonates by Using PyFluor
Authors: Kaźmierczak Marcin , Kubicki Maciej , Koroniak Henryk
Published: May 2018

We report a simple protocol for the synthesis of α‐fluoro‐β‐aminophosphonates by the regioselective fluorination of α‐hydroxy‐β‐aminophosphonates under mild conditions. The fluorination reactions were mediated by the PyFluor reagent and occurred with the retention of configuration. The main products of this reaction were a series of α‐fluoro‐β‐aminophosphonates, which can be used as precursors in the preparation of medicinally important compounds (e.g., dipeptide analogues).
Proton‐Sponge‐Like Superbases Built on the Benzo[h]quinoline Platform
Authors: Ozeryanskii Valery A. , Pozharskii Alexander F.
Published: May 2018

6,10‐Bis(dimethylamino)benzo[h]quinoline (6) and its “reverse” counterpart, the 6,7‐isomer 7 (a “pyridine‐extended” proton sponge), have been prepared in a three‐step synthetic protocol starting from 1,5‐bis‐ and 1,8‐bis(dimethylamino)naphthalenes, respectively, through azo coupling and Skraup cyclisation reactions. These novel polyfunctional nitrogen bases demonstrate excellent chelation ability towards protons and even PdII, and behave as kinetically active (6) and kinetically inactive (7) compounds, as demonstrated by NMR transprotonation experiments in DMSO. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometry was used to characterise rare types of chelated [NHN]+ hydrogen bonds and to reveal the location of the proton in protonated 6 (H+ between NMe2 and the pyridine nitrogen) and its zwitterionic azo‐dye precursor 8Z (H+ between NMe2 and the azo group). Experimental pKa values measured in DMSO show that 6 and 7 are strong bases, and the strength of the basicity of the 6,10‐isomer 6 (pKa = 8.1) places this benzo[h]quinoline in the category of heterocyclic superbases.
Inhibition of sympathetic sprouting in CCD rats by lacosamide
Authors: Wang Y. , Huo F.
Published: May 2018

Background

Early hyperexcitability activity of injured nerve/neuron is critical for developing sympathetic nerve sprouting within dorsal root ganglia (DRG) since lacosamide (LCM), an anticonvulsant, inhibits Na+ channel. The present study tried to test the potential effect of LCM on inhibiting sympathetic sprouting in vivo.

Methods

Lacosamide (50 mg/kg) was daily injected intraperitoneally into rats subjected to chronic compression DRG (CCD), an animal model of neuropathic pain that exhibits sympathetic nerve sprouting, for the 1st 7 days after injury. Mechanical sensitivity was tested from day 3 to day 18 after injury, and then DRGs were removed off. Immunohistochemical staining for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was examined to observe sympathetic sprouting, and patch‐clamp recording was performed to test the excitability and Na+ current of DRG neurons.

Results

Early systemic LCM treatment significantly reduced TH immunoreactivity density in injured DRG, lowered the excitability level of injured DRG neurons and increased paw withdrawal threshold. These effects on reducing sympathetic sprouting, inhibiting excitability and suppressing pain behaviour were observed 10 days after the end of early LCM injection. In vitro 100 μmol/L LCM instantly reduced the excitability of CCD neurons via inhibiting Na+ current and reducing the amplitude of AP.

Conclusions

All the findings suggest, for the first time, that early administration of LCM inhibited sympathetic sprouting and then alleviated neuropathic pain.

Significance

Early LCM administration inhibited sympathetic sprouting within DRG in CCD rats via reducing hyperexcitability of neurons. Early LCM administration suppressed neuropathic pain in CCD rats.
Opioid intake prior to admission is not increased in elderly patients with low‐energy fractures: A case–control study in a German hospital population
Authors: Schwarzer A. , Kaisler M. , Kipping K. , Seybold D. , Rausch V. , Maier C. , Vollert J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Recent studies revealed an increased prescription rate of opioids for elderly patients suffering bone fractures. To gain further insight, we conducted face‐to‐face interviews in the present study to compare the opioid intake between patients with low‐energy fractures and patients suffering from internal diseases.

Methods

In this case–control study, 992 patients, aged 60 years and older, were enrolled between March 2014 and February 2015. The interview comprised a fall and medication history, comorbidities, mobility and other risk factors for fractures. Odds ratios (OR) and a multiple logistic regression model were calculated.

Results

The number of patients with pre‐admission opioid intake in the last 12 months was comparable in the fracture (n = 399, 13.3%) and the control group (n = 593, 14.7% OR: 0.89, CI: 0.62–1.29). The number of patients with current opioid intake of short duration (<3 months) was similar in both groups (14% vs. 20%; OR: 0.66, CI: 0.23–1.93). Patients with opioid intake in the fracture group reported more frequently fatigue as an adverse event of opioid medication (58% vs. 30%; OR: 3.32, CI: 1.48–7.45). Patients with opioid intake showed more severe comorbidities and significantly decreased mobility compared to those without opioids.

Conclusion

Elderly patients internalized due to low‐energy fractures did not take opioids more frequently than patients with internal admission, for both short (<3 months) and longer duration intake. Patients with opioid intake were generally in poorer physical condition. The risk of fracture might increase in patients suffering from fatigue as a side effect of opioid medication.

Significance

This study is based on face‐to‐face interviews with patients, including details about side effects and fracture history, providing a more pronounced picture of the relation of opioid intake and risk of fracture.
Suspicious binds: Conspiracy thinking and tenuous perceptions of causal connections between co‐occurring and spuriously correlated events
Authors: van der Wal Reine C. , Sutton Robbie M. , Lange Jens , Braga João P. N.
Published: May 2018

Previous research indicates that conspiracy thinking is informed by the psychological imposition of order and meaning on the environment, including the perception of causal relations between random events. Four studies indicate that conspiracy belief is driven by readiness to draw implausible causal connections even when events are not random, but instead conform to an objective pattern. Study 1 (N = 195) showed that conspiracy belief was related to the causal interpretation of real‐life, spurious correlations (e.g., between chocolate consumption and Nobel prizes). In Study 2 (N = 216), this effect held adjusting for correlates including magical and non‐analytical thinking. Study 3 (N = 214) showed that preference for conspiracy explanations was associated with the perception that a focal event (e.g., the death of a journalist) was causally connected to similar, recent events. Study 4 (N = 211) showed that conspiracy explanations for human tragedies were favored when they comprised part of a cluster of similar events (vs. occurring in isolation); crucially, they were independently increased by a manipulation of causal perception. We discuss the implications of these findings for previous, mixed findings in the literature and for the relation between conspiracy thinking and other cognitive processes.
Prognostic stratification of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma based on tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Ono Takeharu , Azuma Koichi , Kawahara Akihiko , Sasada Tetsuro , Matsuo Norikazu , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Kamimura Hiroyuki , Maeda Ririko , Hattori Chikayuki , On Kotaro , Nagata Kei , Sato Fumihiko , Chitose Shun‐ich , Shin Buichiro , Aso Takeichiro , Akiba Jun , Umeno Hirohito
Published: May 2018

Background

Little is known about immune‐related prognostic factors in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 66 patients with NPC. Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) status, programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression, and tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) densities were analyzed, and a prognostic evaluation of these immune‐related parameters was performed.

Results

The multivariate analyses demonstrated that CD8‐positive TIL density but not PD‐L1 expression on tumor cells or immune cells was a significant predictive factor for progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that a positive PD‐L1 expression on tumor cells in combination with a higher CD8‐positive TIL density was significantly associated with favorable prognosis, whereas positive PD‐L1 expression on tumor cells with lower CD8‐positive TIL density was associated with worse prognosis.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that PD‐L1 expression on tumor cells in combination with CD8‐positive TIL density could be a useful predictive biomarker for risk stratification in patients with NPC.
Ewing sarcoma of the head and neck: The Mayo Clinic experience
Authors: Olson Michael D. , Van Abel Kathryn M. , Wehrs Rebecca N. , Garcia Joaquin J. , Moore Eric J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Treatment options of Ewing sarcoma of the head and neck include surgery, radiotherapy (RT), and chemoradiotherapy. However, local control can be challenging.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients with head and neck Ewing sarcoma treated from 1972 to 2015 at a single tertiary care hospital.

Results

Seventeen patients met criteria (median 21 years, range 5‐58 years; 5 women). Mean follow‐up was 10.4 years (range 2.2‐39 years). Tumors occurred commonly in the cervical spine (5/17), the skull (3/17), and the paranasal sinuses (3/17). A total of 14 of 17 patients underwent surgical resection, 9 with gross total resection. After multimodality therapy, the 5‐year overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was 87% and 75%, respectively.

Conclusion

Combined multimodal treatment resulted in a 5‐year OS and RFS of 87% and 75%, respectively. Aggressive surgical resection with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy should be considered. Although negative margin surgery is the goal, subtotal resection may be acceptable in the setting of adjuvant treatment.
Age‐adjusted comorbidity and survival in locally advanced laryngeal cancer
Authors:   Multidisciplinary Larynx Cancer Working Group, Mulcahy Collin F. , Mohamed Abdallah S. R. , Kanwar Aasheesh , Hutcheson Katherine A. , Ghosh Alokananda , Vock David , Weber Randal S. , Lai Stephen Y. , Gunn Gary Brandon , Zafereo Mark , Morrison William H. , Ferrarotto Renata , Garden Adam S. , Rosenthal David I. , Fuller Clifton D.
Published: May 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to quantify the relationship among age, pretreatment comorbidity, and survival outcomes in patients with locally advanced laryngeal cancer.

Methods

Baseline comorbidity data were collected and age‐adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was calculated for each case. Kaplan‐Meier and Cox proportional hazards modeling were used to determine associations with survival.

Results

For 548 patients, with a median age of 59 years (range 31‐91 years), 58% were treated with larynx preservation and the rest with total laryngectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). Two hundred thirty‐eight patients (43%) had at least 1 comorbidity each. Cardiovascular diseases were the most common comorbidities (19%). The 5‐year overall survival (OS) for patients with CCI ≤3 (n = 442) were superior to CCI >3 (n = 106; 60% vs 41%; P < .0001), although the 5‐year disease‐specific survival (DSS) rates were not significantly different. The 5‐year noncancer CSS was better for age‐adjusted CCI ≤3 (88% vs 67%; P < .0001).

Conclusion

The age‐adjusted CCI is a significant predictor of noncancer CSS and OS for patients with locally advanced laryngeal cancer but is not associated with DSS.
Narrow band imaging for risk stratification of glottic cancer within leukoplakia
Authors: Rzepakowska Anna , Sielska‐Badurek Ewelina , Żurek Michal , Osuch‐Wójcikiewicz Ewa , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: May 2018

Background

This study investigates relevance of narrow band imaging (NBI) in stratifying risk of malignant transformation within leukoplakia.

Methods

We conducted a prospective analysis that included 62 patients with 91 changes of leukoplakia on vocal folds. The NBI was obtained before microsurgery. Categorization of the lesion as benign was made when vessels of surrounding epithelium were classified as type I, II, or IV according to Ni classification. If there were visualized intraepithelial papillary capillary loops of type V, the lesion was classified as malignant. Results were compared to the histopathological diagnosis.

Results

The NBI assessment classified 75 lesions (82.4%) as benign and 16 (17.6%) as malignant. Histopathological results revealed the diagnosis of no dysplastic changes or low grade dysplasia in 77 cases (84.6%). Another 14 cases (15.4%) occurred with high‐grade dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, and invasive cancer. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of NBI in predicting malignancy within leukoplakia were 100%, 97.4%, and 97.8%, respectively. The kappa index was 0.92 (95% confidence interval 81.1%‐100%).

Conclusion

The noninvasive procedure of an NBI endoscopy may be recommended as an accurate method in predicting the risk of malignant transformation within the vocal fold leukoplakia and, therefore, would be useful in the clinic for planning the patient's therapy.
Value of CT added to ultrasonography for the diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in patients with thyroid cancer
Authors: Lee Younghen , Kim Ji‐hoon , Baek Jung Hwan , Jung So Lyung , Park Sun‐Won , Kim Jinna , Yun Tae Jin , Ha Eun Ju , Lee Kyu Eun , Kwon Soon Young , Yang Kyung‐Sook , Na Dong Gyu
Published: May 2018

Background

The benefit of CT for the diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in patients with thyroid cancer is still unclear.

Methods

Three hundred fifty‐one patients with thyroid cancers from 7 hospitals were prospectively enrolled in order to compare diagnostic performance between a combination of ultrasound and CT (ultrasound/CT) and ultrasound alone for prediction of lymph node metastasis and to calculate patient‐based benefits of CT added to ultrasound.

Results

Of 801 pathologically proven neck levels, ultrasound/CT showed higher sensitivities in both central and lateral compartments and improved accuracy in the lateral compartment compared to ultrasound alone. In the retropharyngeal/superior mediastinal compartment, although CT could detect lymph node metastasis an ultrasound could not. Patient‐based benefit was demonstrated in 13.1% of patients (46/351), and was higher in patients with cancers >1 cm than cancers ≤1 cm.

Conclusion

In patients with thyroid cancer, CT improved surgical planning by enhancing the sensitivity for lymph node metastasis and by detecting lymph node metastasis that was overlooked with ultrasound alone.
Esthesioneuroblastoma with distant metastases: Systematic review & meta‐analysis
Authors: Marinelli John P. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Link Michael J. , Foote Robert L. , Lohse Christine M. , Price Katharine A. , Chintakuntlawar Ashish V.
Published: May 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical outcomes and review the management strategies for metastatic esthesioneuroblastoma.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Results

Forty‐eight studies totaling 118 patients met inclusion criteria. Chemotherapy in combination with surgery and/or radiation exhibited the best overall survival when compared to monotherapy and no treatment (P < .001). However, most patients (66%) received either monotherapy or no therapy. The number and location of metastases among the 3 treatment groups did not significantly differ (P = .85). Treatment modality remained significantly associated with overall survival on multivariable analysis (P < .001). Platinum‐based chemotherapy was most commonly utilized but did not provide a survival benefit when compared with all other regimens (P = .88).

Conclusion

Distant metastases with esthesioneuroblastoma portend a poor prognosis. Chemotherapy in combination with surgery and/or radiation was associated with improved overall survival. Further research into the optimal systemic therapeutic regimen for patients with distant metastases is critical.
Nasal fibroscopy as a routine screening procedure of sinonasal adenocarcinoma of woodworkers: French longitudinal case study
Authors: Martin Julie , Vayr Flora , Paris Christophe , Vergez Sébastien , Krief Peggy , Luc Amandine , Corvisier Julie ,   CERBois members, de Gabory Ludovic , Herin Fabrice
Published: May 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the relevancy of flexible nasoendoscopy as a routine screening procedure of sinonasal adenocarcinoma among people occupationally exposed to wood dust.

Methods

This study included woodworkers, occupationally exposed to wood dust. Evaluations were scheduled at the time of inclusion (T0) and after a 2‐year period (T1). A questionnaire was used for standardized data collection. The score was based on anatomic landmarks on each side that are parts of the olfactory clefts: the area of middle turbinate, the anterior part of the olfactory cleft, the top of the choanal arch, the spheno‐ethmoidal recess, the posterior part of the olfactory cleft, and the middle part of the olfactory cleft.

Results

A total of 965 nasoendoscopies (T0+T1) were performed. Olfactory clefts were visualized in 72% of the cases. Nasoendoscopies revealed pathological findings in 33.6% of cases: polyps, thick nasal secretion aspect, mucous edema, retractile scars and synechia, crusts, mucous erythema, and growth. One case of carcinoma was confirmed. Adverse effects (epistaxis, blood mark on the endo‐sheath, sneezing, or rhinorrhea) after the medical procedure occurred in 30% of cases without severe complications.

Conclusion

Flexible nasoendoscopy offers meaningful efficacy and a promising safety profile, and, therefore, could become the new cornerstone of the routine screening procedure of sinonasal adenocarcinoma among woodworkers.
Racial differences in the prevalence of oncogenic oral human papillomavirus infection types in the United States adult population
Authors: Raymond Samantha , Liu Bian , Taioli Emanuela
Published: May 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence of oral human papillomavirus (HPV) types according to race and to examine risk factors for oral HPV infection in United States adults.

Methods

Using 2009‐2014 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 13 981 subjects were examined. Prevalence of oral HPV and individual oncogenic HPV types were described according to race. Multivariable logistic and linear regressions were used to examine the risk factors for infection and coinfection.

Results

Oncogenic and nononcogenic oral HPV infections were significantly more prevalent in black subjects. Infections with oral HPV types 16 and 51 were more prevalent in white subjects, whereas HPV types 35 and 58 were more prevalent in black subjects.

Conclusion

We identified 4 oral HPV types that differ by race. Future research on HPV types (especially those that differ by race) may help elucidate their potential role in carcinogenesis and cancer disparities.
Serum‐derived carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) activates fibroblasts to induce a local re‐modeling of the extracellular matrix that favors the engraftment of CEA‐expressing tumor cells
Authors: Abdul‐Wahid Aws , Cydzik Marzena , Fischer Nicholas W. , Prodeus Aaron , Shively John E , Martel Anne , Alminawi Samira , Ghorab Zeina , Berinstein Neil L. , Gariépy Jean
Published: May 2018

Elevated levels of the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA; CEACAM5) in the serum of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients represent a clinical biomarker that correlates with disease recurrence. However, a mechanistic role for soluble CEA (sCEA) in tumor progression and metastasis remains to be established. In our study, we report that sCEA acts as a paracrine factor, activating human fibroblasts by signaling through both the STAT3 and AKT1‐mTORC1 pathways, promoting their transition to a cancer‐associated fibroblast (CaF) phenotype. sCEA‐activated fibroblasts express and secrete higher levels of fibronectin, including cellular EDA+‐fibronectin (Fn‐EDA) that selectively promote the implantation and adherence of CEA‐expressing cancer cells. Immunohistochemical analyses of liver tissues derived from CRC patients with elevated levels of sCEA reveal that the expression of cellular Fn‐EDA co‐registers with CEA‐expressing liver metastases. Taken together, these findings indicate a direct role for sCEA as a human fibroblast activation factor, in priming target tissues for the engraftment of CEA‐expressing cancer cells, through the differentiation of tissue‐resident fibroblasts, resulting in a local change in composition of the extracellular matrix.
3D brain magnetic resonance imaging segmentation by using bitplane and adaptive fast marching
Authors: Tuan Tran Anh , Kim Jin Young , Bao Pham The
Published: May 2018

Diagnosis using medical images helps doctors detect diseases and treat patients effectively. A system that segments objects automatically from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays an important role when doctors diagnose injuries and brain diseases. This article presents a method for automatic brain, scalp, and skull segmentation from MRI that uses Bitplane and the Adaptive Fast Marching method (FMM). We focus on the segmentation of these tissues, especially the brain, because they are the essential objects, and their segmentation is the first step in the segmentation of other tissues. First, the type of each slice is set based on the shape of the brain, and the head region is segmented by removing its background. Second, the sure region and the unsure region are segmented based on the Bitplane method. Finally, this work proposes an approach for classification that is based on the Adaptive FMM. This approach is evaluated with the BrainWeb and Neurodevelopmental MRI databases and compared with other methods. The Dice Averages for brain, scalp, and skull segmentation are 96%, 80%, and 93%, respectively, on the BrainWeb database and 91%, 67%, and 80%, respectively, on the Neurodevelopmental MRI database.
The analysis of false prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time (activator: silica): Interference of C‐reactive protein
Authors: Liu Jie , Li Fanfan , Shu Kuangyi , Chen Tao , Wang Xiaoou , Xie Yaoqi , Li Shanshan , Zhang Zhaohua , Jin Susu , Jiang Minghua
Published: May 2018

Background

To investigate the effect of C‐reactive protein on the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) (different activators) in different detecting systems.

Methods

The C‐reactive protein and coagulation test of 112 patients with the infectious disease were determined by automation protein analyzer IMMAG 800 and automation coagulation analyzer STA‐R Evolution, respectively. The pooled plasma APTT with different concentrations of C‐reactive protein was measured by different detecting system: STA‐R Evolution (activator: silica, kaolin), Sysmex CS‐2000i (activator: ellagic acid), and ACL TOP 700 (activator: colloidal silica). In addition, the self‐made platelet lysate (phospholipid) was added to correct the APTT prolonged by C‐reactive protein (150 mg/L) on STA‐R Evolution (activator: silica) system.

Results

The good correlation between C‐reactive protein and APTT was found on the STA‐R Evolution (activator: silica) system. The APTT on the STA‐R Evolution (activator: silica) system was prolonged by 24.6 second, along with increasing C‐reactive protein concentration. And the APTT of plasma containing 150 mg/L C‐reactive protein was shortened by 3.4‐6.9 second when the plasma was mixed with self‐made platelet lysate. However, the APTT was prolonged unobviously on other detecting systems including STA‐R Evolution (activator: kaolin), Sysmex CS‐2000i, and ACL TOP 700.

Conclusion

C‐reactive protein interferes with the detection of APTT, especially in STA‐R Evolution (activator: silica) system. The increasing in C‐reactive protein results in a false prolongation of the APTT (activator: silica), and it is most likely that C‐reactive protein interferes the coagulable factor binding of phospholipid.
Mediation of time perspectives on inclinations to use alcohol and motivation to change relationship
Authors: Wagner Vincent , Acier Didier , Dietlin Jean‐Eric
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Trajectories of change accompanying alcohol‐specialized care can be affected by numerous variables. Massive urges to drink can substantially hamper personal motivation to change. However, time perspective could also play an indirect role in this association. This research explores whether time perspectives mediates the relationship between inclinations to use or not to use alcohol and patients’ motivation to change.

Design

The sample included 150 outpatients in care for their problematic alcohol use. Models of mediation were planned.

Results

At the entry in care, three specific time perspectives, Past Negative, Present Fatalistic, and Future, acted as discrete mediators.

Conclusions

These findings highlight underlying mechanisms connecting inclinations to use or to avoid the substance and the patient's motivation to change. Time perspective could also be an interesting intervention target in existing alcohol‐specialized treatment programs.
Bean dregs‐derived hierarchical porous carbons as metal‐free catalysts for efficient dehydrogenation of propane to propylene
Authors: Hu Zhong‐Pan , Zhang Ling‐Feng , Wang Zheng , Yuan Zhong‐Yong
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Recently, nanocarbons (e.g. carbon nanotubes, nanodiamond and mesoporous carbon) were found to be efficient catalysts in dehydrogenation reactions. However, the preparation of these nanocarbons is costly, complicated and time‐consuming. The goal of this study is to exploit a biomass‐derived carbon for propane dehydrogenation.

RESULTS

Biomass‐derived carbons with hierarchical porous structures and high surface area are prepared via carbonization of bean dregs with NaOH, and operated as metal‐free catalysts for direct dehydrogenation of propane to propylene. The properties of the prepared carbon catalysts are characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, N2 sorption and XPS techniques, revealing the presence of many nanopores and oxygenated functional groups. The catalytic results show that the resultant carbons exhibit high catalytic activity, selectivity and stability for direct dehydrogenation of propane. The activation temperature can significantly affect the textural properties and surface functional groups of the carbons, and thus, affect their catalytic performance.

CONCLUSION

The excellent catalytic performance can be attributed to the high content of oxygenated functional groups combined with hierarchical porous structure and large surface area of the obtained porous carbons which could provide more accessible active sites. This work demonstrates the flexible utilization of bean dregs‐derived carbons in propane dehydrogenation to propylene. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Transcriptional profiling of eosinophil subsets in interleukin-5 transgenic mice
Authors: Fairfax Kirsten A , Bolden Jessica E , Robinson Aaron J , Lucas Erin C , Baldwin Tracey M , Ramsay Kerry A , Cole Rebecca , Hilton Douglas J , de Graaf Carolyn A
Published: May 2018

Eosinophils are important in fighting parasitic infections and are implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma and allergy. IL-5 is a critical regulator of eosinophil development, controlling proliferation, differentiation, and maturation of the lineage. Mice that constitutively express IL-5 have in excess of 10-fold more eosinophils in the hematopoietic organs than their wild type (WT) counterparts. We have identified that much of this expansion is in a population of Siglec-F high eosinophils, which are rare in WT mice. In this study, we assessed transcription in myeloid progenitors, eosinophil precursors, and Siglec-F medium and Siglec-F high eosinophils from IL-5 transgenic mice and in doing so have created a useful resource for eosinophil biologists. We have then utilized these populations to construct an eosinophil trajectory based on gene expression and to identify gene sets that are associated with eosinophil lineage progression. Cell cycle genes were significantly associated with the trajectory, and we experimentally demonstrate an increasing trend toward quiescence along the trajectory. Additionally, we found gene expression changes associated with constitutive IL-5 signaling in eosinophil progenitors, many of which were not observed in eosinophils.

Eosinophils in Interleukin-5 transgenic mice can be subdivided by Siglec-F expression, and are transcriptionally distinct.
Cinnamaldehyde and related phenylpropanoids, natural repellents, and insecticides against Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch.). A chemical structure‐bioactivity relationship
Authors: Zaio Yésica P , Gatti Gerardo , Ponce Andrés A , Saavedra Larralde Natalia A , Martinez María J , Zunino María P , Zygadlo Julio A
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

The insecticidal and repellent effects on adult Sitophilus zeamais of 12 cinnamaldehyde‐related compounds was evaluated by contact toxicity bioassays and a two‐choice olfactometer. To determine non‐toxicity in mammals, body weight, serum biochemical profiles, liver weight, physiological parameters, sperm motility, and histopathological data were obtained as complementary information in C57BL/6 mice treated with the best natural compound.

RESULTS

Based on 24 h LC95 and LC50 values, α‐methyl‐cinnamaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde exhibited better insecticidal action than the other compounds. The best repellent effect was observed with α‐bromo‐cinnamaldehyde, which even repelled at the lowest concentration studied (0.28 µmol L−1). The evaluation of a quantitative structure‐activity relationship found a linear relationship between the LC50 values for adult weevil toxicity and dipolo with Q values (giving the difference between orbital electronegativity carbon 1 and orbital electronegativity carbon 3 of the molecule) in cinnamaldehyde‐related compounds. The polar surface and Log P descriptors also revealed a linear relationship with the S. zeamais repellent effect for cinnamaldehyde analogues. Cinnamaldehyde did not show toxicity in the parameters evaluated in mice.

CONCLUSION

From the phenylpropanoid components studied, the natural compound that had the best insecticidal and repellent action against S. zeamais was cinnamaldehyde. It presented no mammalian toxicity. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry