bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process‐based hydrological modelling: The potential of a bottom‐up approach for runoff predictions in ungauged catchments
Authors: Antonetti Manuel , Scherrer Simon , Kienzler Peter Matthias , Margreth Michael , Zappa Massimiliano
Published: May 2017

Conceptual rainfall–runoff models are a valuable tool for predictions in ungauged catchments. However, most of them rely on calibration to determine parameter values. Improving the representation of runoff processes in models is an attractive alternative to calibration. Such an approach requires a straightforward, a priori parameter allocation procedure applicable on a wide range of spatial scales. However, such a procedure has not been developed yet.

In this paper, we introduce a process‐based runoff generation module (RGM‐PRO) as a spin‐off of the traditional runoff generation module of the PREVAH hydrological modelling system. RGM‐PRO is able to exploit information from maps of runoff types, which are developed on the basis of field investigations and expert knowledge. It is grid based, and within each grid cell, the process heterogeneity is considered to avoid information loss due to grid resolution. The new module is event based, and initial conditions are assimilated and downscaled from continuous simulations of PREVAH, which are also available for real‐time applications. Four parameter allocation strategies were developed, on the basis of the results of sprinkling experiments on 60‐m2 hillslope plots at several grassland locations in Switzerland, and were tested on five catchments on the Swiss Plateau and Prealps. For the same catchments, simulation results obtained with the best parameter allocation strategy were compared with those obtained with different configurations of the traditional runoff generation module of PREVAH, which was also applied as an event‐based module here. These configurations include a version that avoids calibration, one that transfers calibrated parameters, and one that uses regionalised parameter values.

RGM‐PRO simulated heavy events in a more realistic way than the uncalibrated traditional runoff generation module of PREVAH, and, in some instances, it even exceeded the performance of the calibrated traditional one. The use of information on the spatial distribution of runoff types additionally proved to be valuable as a regionalisation technique and showed advantages over the other regionalisation approaches, also in terms of robustness and transferability.
Suicidal death of erythrocytes in cancer and its chemotherapy: A potential target in the treatment of tumor‐associated anemia
Authors: Lang Elisabeth , Bissinger Rosi , Qadri Syed M. , Lang Florian
Published: May 2017

In analogy to apoptosis of nucleated cells, erythrocytes may enter eryptosis characterized by cell shrinkage and cell membrane scrambling. Eryptotic erythrocytes are rapidly cleared from circulating blood and may adhere to the vascular wall. Stimulation of eryptosis thus impairs microcirculation and leads to anemia as soon as the loss of erythrocytes cannot be fully compensated by enhanced erythropoiesis. Signaling stimulating eryptosis includes increase of cytosolic Ca2+‐activity, ceramide, caspases, calpain, p38‐kinase, protein‐kinase C, Janus‐activated kinase 3, casein‐kinase 1α, and cyclin‐dependent kinase 4. Eryptosis is inhibited by AMP‐activated kinase, p21‐activated kinase 2, cGMP‐dependent protein‐kinase, mitogen‐ and stress‐activated kinase, and sorafenib‐ and sunitinib‐sensitive tyrosine‐kinases. Eryptosis is triggered by complement, hyperosmotic shock, energy‐depletion, oxidative stress, multiple xenobiotics including diverse cytostatic drugs, diabetes, hepatic failure, iron‐deficiency, chronic kidney disease, hemolytic‐uremic‐syndrome, fever, systemic lupus erythematosus, infections, sepsis, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, glucose‐6‐phosphate‐dehydrogenase deficiency, and Wilson´s disease. Compelling evidence points to a decisive role of eryptosis in anemia of malignancy. As shown for lung cancer, eryptosis inducing plasma components accumulate in cancer patients and trigger oxidative stress and ceramide. The tumor‐induced eryptosis leads to anemia despite increased erythropoiesis. The stimulation of eryptosis in malignancy is compounded by cytostatic treatment, as a large number of cytostatic agents trigger eryptosis. Inhibiting eryptosis may be a useful strategy in reducing tumor‐induced anemia and impaired microcirculation. Inhibitors of eryptosis may, however, be harmful, if they similarly interfere with death of tumor cells. Clearly, additional experimental effort is required to achieve killing of tumor cells with simultaneous avoidance of stimulated eryptosis.
Cancer‐associated fibroblast‐derived Lumican promotes gastric cancer progression via the integrin β1‐FAK signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Zhou Quan , Yu Zhenjia , Wu Xiongyan , Chen Xuehua , Li Jianfang , Li Chen , Yan Min , Zhu Zhenggang , Liu Bingya , Su Liping
Published: May 2017

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most frequent malignant tumors worldwide and is associated with high invasiveness, high metastasis and poor prognosis. Cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs), residing around tumor cells in tumor stroma, are important modifiers of tumor initiation and progression. However, the molecular mechanisms by which CAF's modulate tumor development have yet not to be characterized in GC. Here we performed tissue assay analyses identifying that Lumican, an extracellular matrix protein, is highly expressed in human gastric CAFs and its expression is positively associated with depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage and poor survival rate of GC. Functional studies revealed that integrin β1‐FAK signaling pathways mediate the promoting effect of Lumican on GC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro. In accordance with these observations, in GC cells co‐cultured with CAFs in which Lumican had been knocked down, decreased gastric tumor growth and metastasis in vivo was apparent. In summary, CAF‐derived Lumican contributes to tumorigenesis and metastasis of GC by activating the integrin β1‐FAK signaling pathway.
Long Non‐Coding RNA MALAT1 Regulates ZEB1 Expression by Sponging miR‐143‐3p and Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Chen Lisha , Yao Hongbing , Wang Kai , Liu Xiangfeng
Published: May 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in HCC. This study aimed to explore the effects of lncRNA MALAT1 on HCC development. MALAT1, ZEB1, and miR‐143‐3p in HCC tissues was detected by qRT‐PCR. Effect of MALAT1 on the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells was estimated by cell‐counting, wound‐healing, and transwell assays. Luciferase reporter assays were used to explore miR‐143‐3p's target, ZEB1. QRT‐PCR and Western blot were employed to determine the effects of MALAT1 or/and miR‐143‐3p on ZEB1 expression. MALAT1 was upregulated in HCC tissues. ZEB1 was a target of miR‐143‐3p. miR‐143‐3p binds with MALAT1, and was regulated by MALAT1. The regulation of MALAT1 on ZEB1 was mediated by miR‐143‐3p. Transfection with siR‐MALAT1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and invasion, while knockdown of miR‐181a partially reversed these effects. Our findings suggest that MALAT1 may regulate ZEB1 expression by sponging miR‐143‐3p and promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4836–4843, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human Hairless Protein Roles in Skin/Hair and Emerging Connections to Brain and Other Cancers
Authors: Maatough Anas , Whitfield G. Kerr , Brook Lemlem , Hsieh David , Palade Patricia , Hsieh Jui‐Cheng
Published: May 2017

The mammalian hairless protein (HR) is a 130 kDa nuclear transcription factor that is essential for proper skin and hair follicle function. Previous studies have focused on the role of HR in skin maintenance and hair cycling. However, the hairless gene (HR) is also expressed in brain and other tissues, where its role remains poorly understood. HR has been reported to contain functional domains that potentially serve in DNA binding, histone demethylation, nuclear translocation and protein–protein interactions. Indeed, HR has been shown to interact with and repress the action of the nuclear receptors for vitamin D and thyroid hormone as well as RAR‐related orphan receptor alpha, possibly via recruitment of histone deacetylases. HR may also have important functions in non‐skin tissues given that nearly 200 HR mutations have been identified in patients with various cancers, including prostate, breast, lung, melanoma, uterine, and glioma. This suggests that HR and/or mutants thereof have relevance to the growth and survival of cancer cells. For example, the reported intrinsic histone H3K9 demethylase activity of HR may activate dormant genes to contribute to carcinogenesis. Alternatively, the demonstrated ability of HR to interact with p53 and/or the p53 DNA response element to influence p53‐regulated pathways may explain, at least in part, why many cancers express mutated HR proteins. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of HR bioactions, how HR mutations may be contributing to alopecia as well as to cancer, and, finally, outline future directions in the study of this largely enigmatic nuclear protein. J. Cell. Biochem. 119: 69–80, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Model‐Based Evaluation of Exenatide Effects on the QT Interval in Healthy Subjects Following Continuous IV Infusion
Authors: Cirincione Brenda , LaCreta Frank , Sager Philip , Mager Donald E.
Published: May 2017

Investigation of the cardiovascular proarrhythmic potential of a new chemical entity is now an integral part of drug development. Studies suggest that meals and glycemic changes can influence QT intervals, and a semimechanistic model has been developed that incorporates the effects of changes in glucose concentrations on heart rate (HR) and QT intervals. This analysis aimed to adapt the glucose‐HR‐QT model to incorporate the effects of exenatide, a drug that reduces postprandial increases in glucose concentrations. The final model includes stimulatory drug effects on glucose elimination and HR perturbations. The targeted and constant exenatide plasma concentrations (>200 pg/mL), via intravenous infusions at multiple dose levels, resulted in significant inhibition of glucose concentrations. The exenatide concentration associated with 50% of the stimulation of HR production was 584 pg/mL. After accounting for exenatide effects on glucose and HR, no additional drug effects were required to explain observed changes in the QT interval. Resulting glucose, HR, and QT profiles at all exenatide concentrations were adequately described. For therapeutic agents that alter glycemic conditions, particularly those that alter postprandial glucose, the QT interval cannot be directly compared to that with placebo without first accounting for confounding factors (eg, glucose) either through mathematical modeling or careful consideration of mealtime placement in the study design.
Influence of Meals and Glycemic Changes on QT Interval Dynamics
Authors: Cirincione Brenda , Sager Philip T. , Mager Donald E.
Published: May 2017

Thorough QT/QTc studies have become an integral part of early drug development programs, with major clinical and regulatory implications. This analysis expands on existing pharmacodynamic models of QT interval analysis by incorporating the influence of glycemic changes on the QT interval in a semimechanistic manner. A total of 21 healthy subjects enrolled in an open‐label phase 1 pilot study and provided continuous electrocardiogram monitoring and plasma glucose and insulin concentrations associated with a 24‐hour baseline assessment. The data revealed a transient decrease in QTc, with peak suppression occurring approximately 3 hours after the meal. A semimechanistic modeling approach was applied to evaluate temporal delays between meals and subsequent changes that might influence QT measurements. The food effect was incorporated into a model of heart rate dynamics, and additional delayed effects of the meal on QT were incorporated using a glucose‐dependent hypothetical transit compartment. The final model helps to provide a foundation for the future design and analysis of QT studies that may be confounded by meals. This study has significant implications for QT study assessment following a meal or when a cohort is receiving a medication that influences postprandial glucose concentrations.
Synthesis of zeolite A using raw kaolin from Ethiopia and its application in removal of Cr(III) from tannery wastewater
Authors: Ayele Lijalem , Pérez Eduardo , Mayoral Álvaro , Chebude Yonas , Díaz Isabel
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

The commercial production of zeolite A mainly involves costly synthetic chemicals. However, cheaper raw materials such as clay minerals, coal ashes, natural zeolites, solid wastes and industrial sludge have been tested. Based on this, the objective of the present study is synthesis of zeolite A from two sources of raw kaolins (Ansho and Bombowha) from Ethiopia and evaluation of its application in tannery wastewater treatment.

RESULTS

The synthesis result indicated high crystallinity (>90%) of zeolite A using Ansho kaolin. Lower grade Bombowha kaolin yielded zeolite A with crystallinity of 80%. In the tannery wastewater treatment study, a real sample having chromium concentration of 2036 mg L−1 was treated, obtaining 99.8% removal and about 200 mg g−1 adsorption capacity of Cr(III) using 100 g L−1 and 5 g L−1 adsorbent dose, respectively. This indicated that the synthesized zeolite A has great potential for Cr(III) removal from tannery wastewater.

CONCLUSION

In this study, zeolite A has been synthesized from two sources of kaolin from Ethiopia and has been evaluated in tannery wastewater treatment. The synthesis result indicated the formation of crystals of zeolite A with optimum crystallinity of 91% and the material exhibited chromium removal efficiency of 99.8%. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The current state and provisions for elderly patients with asthma
Authors: Iwanaga Takashi , Sano Hiroyuki , Tohda Yuji
Published: May 2017

Demographic statistics of Japan indicate that it is moving toward a super‐aging society and, accordingly, the ratio of elderly patients with asthma is also increasing. An important point in diagnosing elderly patients with asthma is that the onset of asthma in old age, along with a history of smoking, differentiation, and complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease must be considered. Primary care physicians must understand the characteristics of elderly patients when treating them. When conducting inhalation therapy in any asthmatic patient, especially elderly asthmatic patients, it is important to teach the patients proper technique and sustain medication adherence. We believe this effort will lead to an improvement in controlling asthma as well as a decrease in the number of asthma deaths.
Art, Development and Peace Working with Adolescents Living in Internally Displaced People's Camps in Mindanao
Authors: Baú Valentina
Published: May 2017

Within a framework of Communication for Development in Peacebuilding, this article sheds light on the use of art forms such as puppetry and photography as communication channels among youth affected by conflict and displacement. The study presented here evaluates UNICEF Art for Development programme, which was carried out with adolescents living in transitory sites in the city of Zamboanga in 2015. Rather than focusing on the therapeutic effect of the activities, this investigation looks at their ability to provide adolescents living in the context of community‐based conflict—such as that of a displaced people's camp—with a safe space to participate and collaborate in art and media production to express themselves and communicate with one another. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning and analysis of the Glwc‐1 and Glwc‐2 genes encoding putative blue light photoreceptor from Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Xu Xinran , Chen Xiangdong , Yu Wumengxiao , Liu Yu , Zhang Weiwei , Lan Jin
Published: May 2017

Blue light plays an important role during the growth of Ganoderma lucidum, one of the best‐known medicinal macrofungi in China. In the present study, we cloned Glwc‐1 and Glwc‐2, the homologue of the blue light photoreceptors Ncwc‐1 and Ncwc‐2 of Neurospora crassa, from G. lucidum. The deduced amino acid sequence of Glwc‐1 contained the similar function domains as NcWC‐1 including LOV, PAS B, PAS C, and PAC domains. The deduced amino acid sequence of Glwc‐2 contained PAS domain and GATA‐type zinc finger (Znf) domain as well as NcWC‐2. Phylogenetic analysis based on fungal WC‐1 and WC‐2 supported GlWC‐1 and GlWC‐2 were blue light receptors. The expression of Glwc‐1 and Glwc‐2 indicated that they might play an important role during the primordium differentiation process of G. lucidum, and the external blue light stimulation increased the expression of Glwc‐1 and Glwc‐2.
The relation of cross‐equatorial flow during winter and spring with South China Sea summer monsoon onset
Authors: Lin Ailan , Zhang Renhe , He Chao
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT

The relationship between cross‐equatorial flow (CEF) during winter and spring and the South China Sea summer monsoon (SCSSM) onset is investigated by data diagnoses for the period of 1979–2013 and numerical experiments. The SCSSM onset is found to have a significant negative correlation with the CEF nearby the Philippines in preceding January, February and March prior to SCSSM onset. A strong CEF during January, February and March tends to be succeeded by an early onset of SCSSM, whereas a weak CEF is likely to be followed by a late onset. The CEF in preceding months links with the SCSSM onset through the subtropical high over South China Sea and western North Pacific in April. The subtropical high in April is weak and eastward shifted (strong and westward shifted) when the CEF in preceding months is strong (weak). The weak and eastward shifted (strong and westward shifted) subtropical high favours (does not favour) the convection developing (depressing) over South China Sea, resulting in an early (late) onset of SCSSM. The anomalies of CEF nearby the Philippines in preceding months and its close relationship with subsequent subtropical high are caused by the sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTA) and atmospheric heating source over tropical western Pacific. The difference of SSTA between south and north of equator in tropical western Pacific and the corresponding atmospheric diabatic heating result in the anomalies of CEF in January, February and March, and impact the activity of subtropical high in April. The positive SSTA in tropical western Pacific, combining with the wet and warm climatic background over northern South China Sea and coastal areas of Southern China in April are favourable for a cyclonic circulation anomaly occurring over northern South China Sea. As a result, the subtropical high is weak and eastward shifted, and the SCSSM onset is early.
Spatio‐temporal characteristics of Indonesian drought related to El Niño events and its predictability using the multi‐model ensemble
Authors: Setiawan Amsari Mudzakir , Lee Woo‐Seop , Rhee Jinyoung
Published: May 2017

Spatio‐temporal drought characteristics related to weak, moderate, and strong El Niño events in the Indonesian region were investigated. The empirical orthogonal function (EOF) patterns of normalized monthly precipitation and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) for the period 1950–2010 were analysed; the influence of El Niño events are better represented by SPI. The effects of El Niño events on meteorological drought were investigated based on a composite analysis. The effects of El Niño were more obvious during June–July–August and September–October–November, while they were not significant in March–April–May especially during weak and moderate El Niño events. Spatial distributions of affected areas varied by season, intensity of El Niño events, and local factors. During moderate and strong El Niño events, meteorological drought was more common in southern Sumatra, Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, southeastern Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Papua. Based on the spatial and temporal variability of droughts, the monthly or seasonal meteorological drought outlook can be improved by using SPI focusing more on the regions and seasons that are affected by El Niño events. The multi‐model ensemble (MME) forecast of SPI performed better for the target months of September to November even at medium lead times. The months are consistent with the period of serious El Niño effects on drought, implying that serious drought conditions during the most harshly affected season can be predicted using the MME forecast.
Trends of land surface heat fluxes on the Tibetan Plateau from 2001 to 2012
Authors: Han Cunbo , Ma Yaoming , Chen Xuelong , Su Zhongbo
Published: May 2017

ABSTRACT

A parameterization approach of effective roughness length was introduced into the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS) model to account for subgrid‐scale topographical influences. Regional distribution of land surface heat flux values (including net radiation flux, ground heat flux, sensible heat flux, and latent heat flux) was estimated on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) based on the SEBS model, and utilizing remote sensing products and reanalysis datasets. We then investigated annual trends in these fluxes for the period 2001–2012. It was found that land surface net radiation flux increased slightly, especially in high, mountainous regions and the central TP, and was influenced by glacial retreat and topsoil wetting, respectively. Sensible heat flux decreased overall, especially in the central and northern TP. In the Yarlung Zangbo River (YZR) Basin, the sensible heat flux increased because of a rise in the ground‐air temperature difference. The latent heat flux increased over the majority TP, except for areas in the YZR Basin. This can be attributed to increases in precipitation and vegetation greening.
Fingerprints of resistant Escherichia coli O157:H7 from vegetables and environmental samples
Authors: Abakpa Grace Onyukwo , Umoh Veronica J , Kamaruzaman Sijam , Ibekwe Mark
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Some routes of transmission of Escherichia coli O157:H7 to fresh produce include contaminated irrigation water and manure polluted soils. The aim of the present study was to determine the genetic relationships of E. coli O157:H7 isolated from some produce growing region in Nigeria using enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) DNA fingerprinting analysis. A total of 440 samples comprising leafy greens, irrigation water, manure and soil were obtained from vegetable producing regions in Kano and Plateau States, Nigeria. Genes coding for the quinolone resistance‐determinant (gyrA) and plasmid (pCT) coding for multidrug resistance (MDR) were determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 16 isolates that showed MDR.

RESULTS

Cluster analysis of the ERIC‐PCR profiles based on band sizes revealed six main clusters from the sixteen isolates analysed. The largest cluster (cluster 3) grouped isolates from vegetables and manure at a similarity coefficient of 0.72.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides data that support the potential transmission of resistant strains of E. coli O157:H7 from vegetables and environmental sources to humans with potential public health implications, especially in developing countries. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Mechanical analysis of the vascularized fibular graft prosthetic composite (VFGPC) for internal hemipelvectomy reconstruction
Authors: Morris Jonathan , Yang Rui , Roth Michael , Gill Jonathan , Gorlick Richard , Lo Yungtai , Hoang Bang H. , Garfein Evan , Geller David S.
Published: May 2017

INTRODUCTION

The vascularized fibular graft prosthetic composite (VFGPC) is used for reconstruction after internal hemipelvectomy. The purpose of this study was to create a mathematical model that calculates the mechanical effects of the vascularized fibular graft on the VFGPC.

METHODS

The effects of the VFG positioning were calculated based on three‐dimensional static analyzes to determine the direction, magnitude, and distribution of the forces through the prosthesis and VFG. The shear stress (SS) and cyclic loads to failure (CLF) were calculated. By varying the location of the VFG on the sacrum the zone of acceptable placement was calculated.

RESULTS

Utilization of the VFG decreased the forces through the implant by 15‐35% and decreased SS 20‐54%, depending on stance. The CLF improved by 94%. The zone of acceptable placement for the VFG was found to be between 0° and 15° of the vertical axis in the sagittal plane and 0° and 30° of the posterior axis in coronal plane.

CONCLUSION

Determining the position of the VFG pre‐operatively allows for the creation of a customized cutting jig can be utilized to create graft allowing for accurate fibular osteotomies, minimization of ischemia time, and decreased intra‐operative handling of the graft.
Regional immunotherapy for liver and peritoneal metastases
Authors: Reha Jeffrey , Katz Steven C.
Published: May 2017

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is a biologically aggressive disease, with liver and peritoneal metastases being a frequent cause of death. We examine how the pancreatic carcinoma microenvironment and immunosuppressive landscape favor tumor progression. Immunotherapy has shown promise in select solid tumors, yet challenges remain in applying these gains to stage IV pancreatic adenocarcinoma. We discuss how regional therapy strategies may be leveraged to open new avenues for treating pancreatic carcinoma metastases with immunotherapy.
Prognostic value of visceral pleural invasion in non‐small cell lung cancer: A propensity score matching study based on the SEER registry
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Sun Fenghao , Chen Li , Shi Mengkun , Shi Yu , Lin Zongwu , Feng Mingxiang , Zhan Cheng , Jiang Wei , Wang Qun
Published: May 2017

Background and Objectives

Visceral pleural invasion (VPI) is considered a poor prognostic factor in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to analyze the effect of VPI on cancer‐specific survival, using propensity score matching (PSM) based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database.

Methods

We identified 9901 patients with T1‐2N0‐2M0 who received segmentectomy, lobectomy, or pneumonectomy. Ten covariates were included in PSM. The effect of VPI on survival was assessed, stratified by nodal status and tumor size.

Results

One‐thousand and eighty‐three pairs of patients were matched with standardized differences of covariates <10% after matching. We found that VPI was associated with a significantly worse survival (3‐year survival rate: 84.6% vs. 75.9%, P = 0.005), especially in N0 (P < 0.001), but not in N1 or N2. No significant difference was observed between the extent of VPI. Moreover, VPI conferred a significantly worse survival in tumors >1‐2 (P = 0.034) and >2–3 cm (P < 0.001), not ≤1, >3‐4, or >4‐5 cm in N0.

Conclusions

VPI is a poor prognostic factor; but with increasing tumor size and nodal stage, its negative effect disappears. Our findings support current staging system which assigns higher T‐stage for early >1‐2 and >2‐3 cm tumors.
Acoustic plus electric speech processing: Long‐term results
Authors: Gantz Bruce J. , Dunn Camille C. , Oleson Jacob , Hansen Marlan R.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Few studies have investigated the stability of residual hearing and speech perception outcomes in individuals who were implanted with a shorter electrode device.

Study Design

Longitudinal, single‐subject design.

Methods

Fifty subjects who received a Nucleus Hybrid (Cochlear, Sydney, Australia) short electrode cochlear implant (CI) and had a minimum of 2 years (and up to 15 years) of postoperative longitudinal experience were included in this study. Twenty‐three subjects received a Nucleus Hybrid S8 (S8); 14 subjects received a Nucleus Hybrid L24 (L24); and 13 received a Nucleus Hybrid S12 (S12). Audiometric thresholds and consonant‐nucleus‐consonant (CNC) words were collected pre‐ and postoperatively for up to 15 years for the S8 subjects and for up to 7 years for the S12 and L24 subjects. AzBio Sentences in multi‐talker babble was collected for up to 7 years on the S12 and L24 subjects.

Results

Longitudinally, 83% of the S8 subjects, 92% of the S12 subjects, and 86% of the L24 subjects maintained a functional hearing pure‐tone average (PTA) (125–500 Hz). Predicted change using a piecewise linear mixed model in PTA over time showed a postoperative linear decrease in hearing for each group until 0.5 years, after which the PTA stabilizes and is maintained. The averaged individual data for CNC and AzBio sentences show a significant improvement in scores by 0.25 to 0.5 years postimplantation, after which scores start to reach their maximum.

Conclusion

This long‐term study demonstrates that acoustic‐electric processing hearing and improvement in speech understanding in quiet and in noise can be accomplished and sustained for many years with a short electrode CI.

Level of Evidence

2C. Laryngoscope, 128:473–481, 2018
Obstructive sleep apnea in the irradiated head and neck cancer patient
Authors: Huyett Phillip , Kim Seungwon , Johnson Jonas T. , Soose Ryan J.
Published: May 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in head and neck cancer (HNSCC) patients treated with radiation therapy.

Study Design

Prospective case series without comparison group.

Methods

Patients who underwent radiation therapy for oropharyngeal or laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma completed a 3‐night home sleep test (HST), Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire, and University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire. Exclusion criteria included oncologic surgical procedures, active disease, history of tracheotomy, history of OSA, or completion of radiation therapy within the last 3 months.

Results

Sixteen HNSCC patients completed the HST, with 50% (8) demonstrating objective evidence of OSA ranging from mild to severe (range 5.6–38.8, median 13.9). Median age was 61.6 years, with a median body mass index (BMI) of 29.8, and 13 of the subjects were male. There were no differences in age, BMI, median radiation dose, tumor primary site or stage, human papilloma virus status, or comorbidity status between the OSA and non‐OSA groups. Self‐reported questionnaire scores were no different between the two groups. OSA patients had a nonsignificant shorter time interval between the completion of radiation and the HST date (1.8 vs. 3.4 years, P = 0.065) and higher rate of gastrostomy tube placement during radiation (62.5% vs. 12.5%, P = 0.059).

Conclusion

The results of this preliminary study suggest that the prevalence of OSA is increased in the head and neck irradiated patient when compared to the general population. Self‐report of sleep symptoms alone may be unreliable to determine risk of OSA in the HNSCC population.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2673–2677, 2017
Dropout rate from the liver transplant waiting list because of hepatocellular carcinoma progression in hepatitis C virus–infected patients treated with direct‐acting antivirals
Authors: Zanetto Alberto , Shalaby Sarah , Vitale Alessandro , Mescoli Claudia , Ferrarese Alberto , Gambato Martina , Franceschet Enrica , Germani Giacomo , Senzolo Marco , Romano Antonietta , Angeli Paolo , Rugge Massimo , Farinati Fabio , Forton Daniel M. , Cillo Umberto , Burra Patrizia , Russo Francesco Paolo
Published: May 2017

Concerns about an increased hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence rate following direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) therapy in patients with cirrhosis with a prior complete oncological response have been raised. Data regarding the impact of HCV treatment with DAAs on wait‐list dropout rates in patients with active HCC and HCV‐related cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation (LT) are lacking. HCV‐HCC patients listed for LT between January 2015 and May 2016 at Padua Liver Transplant Center were considered eligible for the study. After enrollment, patients were divided into 2 groups, depending on whether they underwent DAA treatment while awaiting LT or not. For each patient clinical, serological, and virological data were collected. HCC characteristics were radiologically evaluated at baseline and during follow‐up (FU). For transplanted patients, pathological assessment of the explants was performed and recurrence rates were calculated. A total of 23 patients treated with DAAs and 23 controls were enrolled. HCC characteristics at time of LT listing were comparable between the 2 groups. Median FU was 10 and 7 months, respectively, during which 2/23 (8.7%) and 1/23 (4.3%) dropout events due to HCC progression were registered (P = 0.90). No significant differences in terms of radiological progression were highlighted (P = 0.16). A total of 9 out of 23 (39%) patients and 14 out of 23 (61%) controls underwent LT, and histopathological analysis showed no differences in terms of median number and total tumor volume of HCC nodules, tumor differentiation, or microvascular invasion. During post‐LT FU, 1/8 (12.5%) DAA‐treated patient and 1/12 (8.3%) control patient experienced HCC recurrence (P = 0.60). In conclusion, viral eradication does not seem to be associated with an increased risk of dropout due to neoplastic progression in HCV‐HCC patients awaiting LT. Liver Transplantation 23 1103–1112 2017 AASLD.
Photochemically Prepared Gold/Polymer Nanocoatings: Formation of Gold Mirror
Authors: Çeper Tolga , Arsu Nergis
Published: May 2017

In this study a rapid method is developed to obtain Au nanoparticles (AuNPs)/polymer composite materials by which HAuCl4 salt is reduced and a polymer matrix is simultaneously generated by the means of UV light. 2‐Mercaptothioxanthone (TX‐SH), thioxanthone (TX), and TX + thiophenol are used as photoinitiator system for the poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate mixtures in the presence of HAuCl4. Except for a few studies, in situ reduction of Au ions, in an attempt to make them near or at polymer surface, has hardly been investigated at all. As a result of this study, it is important to note that the change of shape of NPs depends on the photoreducing species. TX‐SH, due to thiol functionality in its structure, helps the production of the size, shape, and controlled distribution of AuNPs either in polymer matrix or in solution. Prepared AuNPs/polymer nanocoatings exhibit a reflected gold mirror view depending on the irradiation time. In addition to the foregoing approach in obtaining a thin film in the presence of AuNPs, it is expected that they are well ordered near the film surface with controlled shape and narrow range in size distribution.

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Synthesis and Characterization of Benzodithiophene–Chalcogenophene Based Copolymers: A Comparative Study of Optoelectronic Properties and Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Shahjad  , Bhargav Ranoo , Bhardwaj Dinesh , Mishra Anamika , Patra Asit
Published: May 2017

Three copolymers based on poly(dialkoxybenzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐biselenophene) P3a and its heteroatom(s) analogues P3b and P3c are synthesized by Stille cross‐coupling to investigate the effects of the heteroatom on the optoelectronic and photovoltaic properties. Detailed characterizations of the copolymers are carried out by 1H NMR, gel permeation chromatography, UV–vis absorption spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. Optical absorption spectra reveal that the presence of biselenophene moiety in the copolymer P3a shows red‐shifted absorption (band gap 1.82 eV) compared to bithiophene containing copolymer P3b (band gap 1.91 eV), while band gap of bifuran containing copolymer P3c is 2.05 eV. The photovoltaic devices are fabricated using the copolymers P3a–c blended with phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester as an acceptor material with the device structure of indium tin oxide (ITO)/MoO3/active layer/Al. The power conversion efficiency is gradually increased with the replacement of furan by thiophene and furthermore thiophene by selenophene, respectively, due to increment in J
sc. Density functional theory calculations are studied on these three copolymers to understand the trends of energy levels and throughout compared with experimental data where applicable. The strategy has advantage of different aromaticities of heterocyclic rings combining with electronegativities and polarizabilities of the heteroatom(s) to allow the band gap engineering and tunability of photovoltaic performances.

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Transesterification in the Solid State of Cyclic and Linear Poly(l‐lactide)s
Authors: Weidner Steffen M. , Kricheldorf Hans R.
Published: May 2017

Poly(l‐lactide)s are synthesized and annealed at 120 °C and changes of the molecular weight distribution (MWD) are monitored by matrix‐assited laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry. For example, benzyl alcohol+SnOct2 causes equilibration of odd‐ and even‐numbered chains and the final goal of the transesterification is the most probable distribution. The underlying intermolecular transesterification is even observed at 100 and 80 °C in the solid state. However, cyclic tin mercaptide catalysts transform the initial most probable distribution into a MWD with maxima, which display a conspicuous fine structure due to a preferential crystallization of certain ring sizes. The optimum ring sizes for the crystallization are provided by ring‐ring equilibration. The gradual formation of a special morphology shifts the melting temperature to values up to 187 °C. Annealing of commercial poly(l‐lactide) with a cyclic tin catalyst also yields a distribution of mass peaks with a maximum showing the characteristic fine structure.

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Self‐Healing Epoxy Coatings via Focused Sunlight Based on Photothermal Effect
Authors: Fang Liang , Chen Jiamei , Zou Yuting , Chen Shunping , Fang Tianyu , Lu Chunhua , Xu Zhongzi
Published: May 2017

Epoxy coatings which can be healed via photothermal effect from focused sunlight are reported. The diamine of m‐xylylenediamine (MXDA) and monoamine of 4‐(heptadecafluorooctyl)aniline (HFOA) are reacted into the diglycidylether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) network. Via gradual replacement of MXDA with HFOA, the glass transition temperature and crosslinking density of the epoxy network are tuned to achieve the thermally induced healing based on chain diffusion and reentanglement. Aniline black (AB) with well absorptivity for sunlight is used subsequently as the organic photothermal compound, transferring the thermally induced healing into a sunlight responsive one. A common handheld magnifier, which can focus natural sunlight to the required power density (0.6–0.9 W cm−1), is used to successfully heal one cracked coating in outdoor circumstance. This study provides a potential approach to achieve the convenient, precise, and timely healing for outdoor epoxy coatings.

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End‐Functionalized Palladium SCS Pincer Polymers via Controlled Radical Polymerizations
Authors: Lye Diane S. , Cohen Aaron E. , Wong Madeleine Z. , Weck Marcus
Published: May 2017

A direct and facile route toward semitelechelic polymers, end‐functionalized with palladated sulfur–carbon–sulfur pincer (PdII‐pincer) complexes is reported that avoids any post‐polymerization step. Key to our methodology is the combination of reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization with functionalized chain‐transfer agents. This strategy yields Pd end‐group‐functionalized materials with monomodal molar mass dispersities (Đ) of 1.18–1.44. The RAFT polymerization is investigated using a PdII‐pincer chain‐transfer agent for three classes of monomers: styrene, tert‐butyl acrylate, and N‐isopropylacrylamide. The ensuing PdII‐pincer end‐functionalized polymers are analyzed using 1H NMR spectroscopy, gel‐permeation chromatography, and elemental analysis. The RAFT polymerization methodology provides a direct pathway for the fabrication of PdII‐pincer functionalized polymers with complete end‐group functionalization.

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Metagenomic potential for and diversity of N‐cycle driving microorganisms in the Bothnian Sea sediment
Authors: Rasigraf Olivia , Schmitt Julia , Jetten Mike S. M. , Lüke Claudia
Published: May 2017

The biological nitrogen cycle is driven by a plethora of reactions transforming nitrogen compounds between various redox states. Here, we investigated the metagenomic potential for nitrogen cycle of the in situ microbial community in an oligotrophic, brackish environment of the Bothnian Sea sediment. Total DNA from three sediment depths was isolated and sequenced. The characterization of the total community was performed based on 16S rRNA gene inventory using SILVA database as reference. The diversity of diagnostic functional genes coding for nitrate reductases (napA;narG), nitrite:nitrate oxidoreductase (nxrA), nitrite reductases (nirK;nirS;nrfA), nitric oxide reductase (nor), nitrous oxide reductase (nosZ), hydrazine synthase (hzsA), ammonia monooxygenase (amoA), hydroxylamine oxidoreductase (hao), and nitrogenase (nifH) was analyzed by blastx against curated reference databases. In addition, Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based amplification was performed on the hzsA gene of anammox bacteria. Our results reveal high genomic potential for full denitrification to N2, but minor importance of anaerobic ammonium oxidation and dissimilatory nitrite reduction to ammonium. Genomic potential for aerobic ammonia oxidation was dominated by Thaumarchaeota. A higher diversity of anammox bacteria was detected in metagenomes than with PCR‐based technique. The results reveal the importance of various N‐cycle driving processes and highlight the advantage of metagenomics in detection of novel microbial key players.
Mxd1 mediates hypoxia‐induced cisplatin resistance in osteosarcoma cells by repression of the PTEN tumor suppressor gene
Authors: Zheng Datong , Wu Weiling , Dong Na , Jiang Xiuqin , Xu Jinjin , Zhan Xi , Zhang Zhengdong , Hu Zhenzhen
Published: May 2017

Hypoxia‐induced chemoresistance remains a major obstacle to treating osteosarcoma effectively. Mxd1, a member of the Myc/Max/Mxd family, was shown to be involved in the development of drug resistance under hypoxia. However, the effect of Mxd1 on hypoxia‐induced cisplatin (CDDP) resistance and its mechanism in osteosarcoma have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated that HIF‐1α‐induced Mxd1 contributed to CDDP resistance in hypoxic U‐2OS and MG‐63 cells. The knockdown of Mxd1 expression elevated PTEN expression at both protein and RNA levels in these hypoxic cells. Using Luciferase reporter and ChIP assays, we confirmed that Mxd1 directly bound to the E‐box sites within the PTEN promoter region. We further demonstrated that PTEN knockdown decreased CDDP sensitivity in Mxd1 siRNA‐transfected U‐2OS and MG‐63 cells under hypoxia. Our results also showed that Mxd1 deficiency in hypoxic U‐2OS and MG‐63 cells lead to inactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling, which is the downstream of PTEN. Furthermore, blockade of PI3K/AKT signal re‐sensitized hypoxic U‐2OS and MG‐63 cells to CDDP. Taken together, these findings suggest that HIF‐1α‐induced Mxd1 up‐regulation suppresses the expression of PTEN under hypoxia, which leads to the activation of PI3K/AKT antiapoptotic and survival pathway. As a result CDDP resistance in osteosarcoma cells is induced.
Abrus agglutinin promotes irreparable DNA damage by triggering ROS generation followed by ATM‐p73 mediated apoptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Sinha Niharika , Panda Prashanta K. , Naik Prajna P. , Das Durgesh N. , Mukhopadhyay Subhadip , Maiti Tapas K. , Shanmugam Muthu K. , Chinnathambi Arunachalam , Zayed ME , Alharbi Sulaiman A. , Sethi Gautam , Agarwal Rajesh , Bhutia Sujit K.
Published: May 2017

Oral cancer, a type of head and neck cancer, is ranked as one of the top most malignancies in India. Herein, we evaluated the anticancer efficacy of Abrus agglutinin (AGG), a plant lectin, in oral squamous cell carcinoma. AGG selectively inhibited cell growth, and caused cell cycle arrest and mitochondrial apoptosis through a reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated ATM‐p73 dependent pathway in FaDu cells. AGG‐induced ROS accumulation was identified as the major mechanism regulating apoptosis, DNA damage and DNA‐damage response, which were significantly reversed by ROS scavenger N‐acetylcysteine (NAC). Moreover, AGG was found to interact with mitochondrial manganese‐dependent superoxide dismutase that might inhibit its activity and increase ROS in FaDu cells. In oral cancer p53 is mutated, thus we focused on p73; AGG resulted in p73 upregulation and knock down of p73 caused a decrease in AGG‐induced apoptosis. Interestingly, AGG‐dependent p73 expression was found to be regulated by ROS, which was reversed by NAC treatment. A reduction in the level of p73 in AGG‐treated shATM cells was found to be associated with a decreased apoptosis. Moreover, administration of AGG (50 μg/kg body weight) significantly inhibited the growth of FaDu xenografts in athymic nude mice. In immunohistochemical analysis, the xenografts from AGG‐treated mice displayed a decrease in PCNA expression and an increase in caspase‐3 activation as compared to the controls. In conclusion, we established a connection among ROS, ATM and p73 in AGG‐induced apoptosis, which might be useful in enhancing the therapeutic targeting of p53 deficient oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Improvement of thermal stability, crystallinity and degradation of poly(butylene carbonate) by incorporation of bio‐based poly(ethylene sebacate) segment
Authors: Cai Xiaodong , Yang Xiangui , Li Jianguo , Wang Gongying
Published: May 2017

Multiblock poly(carbonate‐co‐esters) (PBC‐PESe) containing poly(butylene carbonates) (PBC) and bio‐based poly(ethylene sebacate) (PESe) had been synthesized successfully by chain‐extension of dihydroxyl terminated PBC (PBC‐OH) and PESe (PESe‐OH) using 1,6‐hexmethylene diisocyanate as chain extender. The chemical structures, molecular weights, crystallization behaviors, and thermal and degradation properties of the copolymers were all characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscope, thermogravimetry analysis, water contact angle, and hydrolytic degradation. The resulting copolymers PBC‐PESe all had a sole glass transition temperature (Tg), indicating the two segments, PBC and PESe, were well compatible in the amorphous phase. PESe segment acted a significant role on enhancing the thermal degradation temperature and hydrolytic degradation rate of multiblock copolymers. And the crystallization rate of PBC got dramatically accelerated after PESe segment was incorporated. However, the crystallization mechanism did not change. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of multiblock copolymers could be adjusted by changing the feed composition. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.