bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D image fusion of whole‐heart dynamic cardiac MR perfusion and late gadolinium enhancement: Intuitive delineation of myocardial hypoperfusion and scar
Authors: von Spiczak Jochen , Mannil Manoj , Kozerke Sebastian , Alkadhi Hatem , Manka Robert
Published: March 2018

Background

Since patients with myocardial hypoperfusion due to coronary artery disease (CAD) with preserved viability are known to benefit from revascularization, accurate differentiation of hypoperfusion from scar is desirable.

Purpose

To develop a framework for 3D fusion of whole‐heart dynamic cardiac MR perfusion and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) to delineate stress‐induced myocardial hypoperfusion and scar.

Study Type

Prospective feasibility study.

Subjects

Sixteen patients (61 ± 14 years, two females) with known/suspected CAD.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T (nine patients); 3.0T (seven patients); whole‐heart dynamic 3D cardiac MR perfusion (3D‐PERF, under adenosine stress); 3D LGE inversion recovery sequences (3D‐SCAR).

Assessment

A software framework was developed for 3D fusion of 3D‐PERF and 3D‐SCAR. Computation steps included: 1) segmentation of the left ventricle in 3D‐PERF and 3D‐SCAR; 2) semiautomatic thresholding of perfusion/scar data; 3) automatic calculation of ischemic/scar burden (ie, pathologic relative to total myocardium); 4) projection of perfusion/scar values onto artificial template of the left ventricle; 5) semiautomatic coregistration to an exemplary heart contour easing 3D orientation; and 6) 3D rendering of the combined datasets using automatically defined color tables. All tasks were performed by two independent, blinded readers (J.S. and R.M.).

Statistical Tests

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for determining interreader agreement.

Results

Image acquisition, postprocessing, and 3D fusion were feasible in all cases. In all, 10/16 patients showed stress‐induced hypoperfusion in 3D‐PERF; 8/16 patients showed LGE in 3D‐SCAR. For 3D‐PERF, semiautomatic thresholding was possible in all patients. For 3D‐SCAR, automatic thresholding was feasible where applicable. Average ischemic burden was 11 ± 7% (J.S.) and 12 ± 7% (R.M.). Average scar burden was 8 ± 5% (J.S.) and 7 ± 4% (R.M.). Interreader agreement was excellent (ICC for 3D‐PERF = 0.993, for 3D‐SCAR = 0.99).

Data Conclusion

3D fusion of 3D‐PERF and 3D‐SCAR facilitates intuitive delineation of stress‐induced myocardial hypoperfusion and scar.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;48:1129–1138.
Very late perforation by a Riata implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator lead—A case report
Authors: Nozoe Masatsugu , Sakamoto Kazuo , Nagatomo Daisuke , Suematsu Nobuhiro , Kubota Toru , Okabe Masanori , Yamamoto Yusuke
Published: March 2018

Cardiac perforation by a transvenous lead is an uncommon but serious complication. We herein present a case of very late perforation of a Riata implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator lead, which occurred 8 years after implantation. The patient was successfully treated with percutaneous lead extraction using an excimer laser. Lead perforation should be considered, even after years from implantation.
Innovative Discharge Process for Families with Pediatric Short Bowel Syndrome: A Prospective Nonrandomized Trial
Authors: Raphael Bram P. , Jorina Maria , Gallotto Mary , Grullon Glendalis , Dalton Meghan , Takvorian‐Bené Melissa , Tascione Christina , Rosa Carolyn , McClelland Jennifer , Gray Megan , Potemkin Alexis K. , Glavin Courtney , Gura Kathleen M. , Murphy Margaret K. , Leger Kierrah , Mahoney Judith , Kerr Jessica , Ozonoff Al , Duggan Christopher P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a life‐sustaining therapy for short bowel syndrome (SBS) and other severe digestive diseases, but complications are common. We evaluated a predischarge HPN hands‐on training course to reduce complications in children with SBS, including hospital readmissions.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, nonrandomized controlled research study between April 1, 2014, and April 30, 2017. Eligible participants were children aged <18 years old with SBS and anticipated HPN dependence duration ≥6 months. Excluded participants had a previous history of discharge with a central venous catheter (CVC), HPN, or intravenous fluids or strictly palliative goals of care. An intervention group practiced hands‐on HPN within the hospital room for 24 hours using infusion equipment. The groups received standard teaching (CVC care, home infusion pump operation, HPN preparation and administration).

Results

Nine children were assigned to the intervention group and 12 served as controls. The median age was 8.4 months, and length of stay (LOS) was 82 days. All participants experienced ≥1 event, with a total of 47 issues related to HPN. There were no significant associations between group assignment and 30‐day postdischarge events. Each additional week of LOS was associated with 11% increase in the odds of an emergency department visit (OR 1.11; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.26) and 16% increase in the odds of readmission (OR 1.16; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.37).

Conclusions

Postdischarge events remained widespread despite HPN bedside interventions offered by this pilot intervention. With refinement of HPN discharge processes, quality benchmarks are needed.
Effects of nitrogen forms on carbohydrate metabolism and storage‐root formation of sweet potato
Authors: Si Chengcheng , Shi Chunyu , Liu Hongjuan , Zhan Xiangdong , Liu Yongchen
Published: March 2018

In this study, we examined the effects of different forms of nitrogen (N) fertilizer on carbohydrate metabolism and storage root formation in sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas L. (Lam.) cv. Shangshu 19 and cv. Jixu 23] in 2015–2016. Two fertilizer treatments, ammonium nitrogen (AN) and amide nitrogen (XN), were applied at 60 kg ha−1 in a two‐factor split‐plot design. The effects of nitrogen form on the morphology of adventitious roots, carbohydrate metabolism in potential storage roots, and number of storage roots per plant in sweet potato were investigated. The results show that during the early growth phase, the AN treatment significantly increased the number of adventitious roots, root tips, root length density, and fresh weight of roots (in pot trials). This treatment also significantly decreased the sucrose concentration of potential storage roots and increased the activities of cell wall, vacuolar, and cytoplasmic invertases. However, XN‐treated potential storage roots showed a relatively high starch concentration, activities of sucrose synthase and ADP‐glucose pyrophosphorylase, and transcription of sporamin genes. At the canopy closure period, the AN treatment significantly increased the number of storage roots of 0.5–5.0 cm in diameter and decreased the number of those > 5 cm in diameter compared to the control. The XN treatment induced the opposite effects. In the harvesting period, the AN treatment produced the highest storage root yield and number of storage roots per plant. Thus, in field trials the AN treatment induced a greater increase in production by increasing the number of storage roots.
A novel superchilling storage – ice glazing (SS‐IG) approach using biopolymer‐based composite hydrogel to delay microbiological spoilage and organic oxidation of preserved tilapia
Authors: He Qi , Gong Bin , He Jiapeng , Yang Xiaocui , Xiao Kaijun , Zhu Liang
Published: March 2018

Background

Most aquatic products are highly susceptible to deterioration and microbial spoilage during storage. Cold storage is a frequently used method to preserve them. However, products preserved by traditional frozen method are prone to suffer damage. This can significantly impair the quality of the products. To solve the problem, this work established a novel superchilling storage‐ice glazing (SS‐IG) approach using chitosan‐catechin composite material. It can maximize the postmortem quality of preserved products during storage, avoiding damage.

Results

During storage at −1.5 ± 0.2 °C for 25 days, the SS‐IG approach using 5 g L−1 chitosan and 1∼3 g L−1 catechin as IG layers can effectively enhance the postmortem quality of preserved tilapia fillets. The sensory qualities of these fillets were effectively maintained. The microbial counts in these fillets were strongly suppressed. Oxidative rancidity in these fillets was observably inhibited. Less biogenic amine was produced in these fillets.

Conclusion

The results indicated that the SS‐IG with chitosan‐catechin composite‐ice glazing layers can be effective in maintaining the postmortem quality of tilapia fillets. This will have a wide potential application. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of tetracyclines from milk powder by molecularly imprinted solid‐phase dispersion based on a metal–organic framework followed by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Shangshu , Zhang Jianfeng , Li Chenyu , Chen Ligang
Published: March 2018

A novel molecularly imprinted polymer that could selectively recognize tetracyclines in milk powder was synthesized using a metal–organic framework as a support material, tetracycline as template molecule, and 3‐aminophenylboronic acid as a functional monomer and a cross‐linking agent. The novel molecularly imprinted polymer was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, thermogravimetric analysis, and N2 adsorption/desorption measurements. The adsorption isotherms, adsorption kinetics, adsorption thermodynamics, and selective adsorption experiments of the novel molecularly imprinted polymer to tetracycline were also studied. The novel molecularly imprinted polymer was used as dispersant of matrix solid‐phase dispersion to extraction tetracyclines. After that, the tetracyclines extracted from milk powder were determined by ultra high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Under the optimal conditions, the detection limits of tetracyclines were 0.217–0.318 ng/g. The relative standard deviations of intra‐ and interday precision ranged from 3.8 to 6.9% and from 2.8 to 7.4%, respectively. In all three concentration levels (1.0, 10, 50 ng/g), the recoveries of tetracyclines ranged from 84.7 to 93.9%. The method was successfully applied to the determination of tetracyclines in milk powder.
Magnetic solid‐phase extraction or dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for pyrethroid determination in environmental samples
Authors: Pastor‐Belda Marta , Navarro‐Jiménez Tania , Garrido Isabel , Viñas Pilar , Campillo Natalia , Fenoll José , Hernández‐Córdoba Manuel
Published: March 2018

The determination of 15 pyrethroids in soil and water samples was carried out by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Compounds were extracted from the soil samples (4 g) using solid–liquid extraction and then salting‐out assisted liquid–liquid extraction. The acetonitrile phase obtained (0.8 mL) was used as a dispersant solvent, to which 75 μL of chloroform was added as an extractant solvent, submitting the mixture to dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction. For the analysis of water samples (40 mL), magnetic solid‐phase extraction was performed using nanocomposites of magnetic nanoparticles and multiwalled carbon nanotubes as sorbent material (10 mg). The mixture was shaken for 45 min at room temperature before separation with a magnet and desorption with 3 mL of acetone using ultrasounds for 5 min. The solvent was evaporated and reconstituted with 100 μL acetonitrile before injection. Matrix‐matched calibration is recommended for quantification of soil samples, while water samples can be quantified by standards calibration. The limits of detection were in the range of 0.03–0.5 ng/g (soil) and 0.09–0.24 ng/mL (water), depending on the analyte. The analyzed environmental samples did not contain the studied pyrethroids, at least above the corresponding limits of detection.
Clinically Significant Change in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Is Associated With Lower Levels of Aggression After Residential Treatment Discharge
Authors: Watkins Laura E. , Sippel Lauren M. , Pietrzak Robert H. , Hoff Rani , Harpaz‐Rotem Ilan
Published: March 2018

Although the link between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and aggression has been repeatedly demonstrated, to our knowledge no research has examined whether PTSD symptom reductions are linked to less aggression after treatment. The current study aimed to address this gap in the literature by examining the association between reductions in PTSD symptoms and posttreatment aggression among 2,275 veterans in residential treatment for PTSD across 35 Veterans Health Administration sites. We estimated a multilevel model that examined the effect of clinically significant PTSD symptom change on aggression at 4‐month posttreatment follow‐up, and found significant within‐site and between‐site contextual effects of clinically significant changes in PTSD symptoms on follow‐up aggression. Findings revealed that veterans who reported clinically significant changes in their PTSD symptoms had lower levels of aggression at follow‐up than veterans at the same treatment site who did not report clinically significant PTSD change. After we controlled for individual clinically significant PTSD change, participants in treatment sites where the rates of clinically significant PTSD change were higher overall had lower levels of aggression at follow‐up. The model explained over one‐fourth of the variability in aggression, R2 = .26. Findings from the current study extend previous research that has shown associations between PTSD and aggression, by revealing that clinically significant change in PTSD during residential treatment is associated with less aggression at follow‐up. These findings suggest that interventions that effectively reduce PTSD symptoms may also help reduce risk for aggression.
A Clinical Decision Support System Using Ultrasound Textures and Radiologic Features to Distinguish Metastasis From Tumor‐Free Cervical Lymph Nodes in Patients With Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Abbasian Ardakani Ali , Reiazi Reza , Mohammadi Afshin
Published: March 2018

Objectives

This study investigated the potential of a clinical decision support approach for the classification of metastatic and tumor‐free cervical lymph nodes (LNs) in papillary thyroid carcinoma on the basis of radiologic and textural analysis through ultrasound (US) imaging.

Methods

In this research, 170 metastatic and 170 tumor‐free LNs were examined by the proposed clinical decision support method. To discover the difference between the groups, US imaging was used for the extraction of radiologic and textural features. The radiologic features in the B‐mode scans included the echogenicity, margin, shape, and presence of microcalcification. To extract the textural features, a wavelet transform was applied. A support vector machine classifier was used to classify the LNs.

Results

In the training set data, a combination of radiologic and textural features represented the best performance with sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) values of 97.14%, 98.57%, 97.86%, and 0.994, respectively, whereas the classification based on radiologic and textural features alone yielded lower performance, with AUCs of 0.964 and 0.922. On testing the data set, the proposed model could classify the tumor‐free and metastatic LNs with an AUC of 0.952, which corresponded to sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 93.33%, 96.66%, and 95.00%.

Conclusions

The clinical decision support method based on textural and radiologic features has the potential to characterize LNs via 2‐dimensional US. Therefore, it can be used as a supplementary technique in daily clinical practice to improve radiologists' understanding of conventional US imaging for characterizing LNs.
Fetal Intelligent Navigation Echocardiography (FINE) Detects 98% of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Yeo Lami , Luewan Suchaya , Romero Roberto
Published: March 2018

Objective

Fetal intelligent navigation echocardiography (FINE) is a novel method that automatically generates and displays 9 standard fetal echocardiographic views in normal hearts by applying intelligent navigation technology to spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) volume data sets. The main objective was to determine the sensitivity and specificity of FINE in the prenatal detection of congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods

A case‐control study was conducted in 50 fetuses with a broad spectrum of CHD (cases) and 100 fetuses with normal hearts (controls) in the second and third trimesters. Using 4‐dimensional ultrasound with STIC technology, volume data sets were acquired. After all identifying information was removed, the data sets were randomly distributed to a different investigator for analysis using FINE. The sensitivity and specificity for the prenatal detection of CHD, as well as positive and negative likelihood ratios were determined.

Results

The diagnostic performance of FINE for the prenatal detection of CHD was: sensitivity of 98% (49 of 50), specificity of 93% (93 of 100), positive likelihood ratio of 14, and negative likelihood ratio of 0.02. Among cases with confirmed CHD, the diagnosis with use of FINE completely matched the final diagnosis in 74% (37 of 50); minor discrepancies were seen in 12% (6 of 50), and major discrepancies were seen in 14% (7 of 50).

Conclusions

This is the first time the sensitivity and specificity of the FINE method in fetuses with normal hearts and CHD in the second and third trimesters has been reported. Because FINE identifies a broad spectrum of CHD with 98% sensitivity, this method could be used prenatally to screen for and diagnose CHD.
Integrated approaches to natural resources management—Theory and practice
Authors: Tengberg Anna , Valencia Sandra
Published: March 2018

To meet multiple environmental objectives, integrated programming is becoming increasingly important for the Global Environmental Facility, the financial mechanism of the Multilateral Environmental Agreements, including the UN Convention to Combat Desertification. However, integration is often not well defined. We therefore focus on identifying key aspects of integration and assessing their implementation in natural resources management projects. To that end, we draw on systems thinking literature and carry out an analysis of a random sample of Global Environmental Facility integrated projects and in‐depth case studies demonstrating lessons learned and good practice. We highlight the need for projects to identify clearer system boundaries and main feedback mechanisms within those boundaries, in order to effectively address drivers of environmental change. We propose a theory of change for integrated natural resources management projects, where short‐term environmental and socioeconomic benefits will first accrue at the local level. Implementation of improved integrated natural resources management technologies and practices at the local level can then be extended through spatial planning and strengthening of innovation systems. Financing and incentive mechanisms at the watershed and/or landscape/seascape level coupled with supporting policies could sustain and enhance ecosystem services at even larger scales and longer time spans. The evolving scientific understanding of factors influencing social, technical, and institutional innovations and transitions towards sustainable management of natural resources should be harnessed and integrated into influencing models and theory of change for complex social‐environmental problems, such as land degradation, and be coupled with up‐to‐date approaches for learning, adaptive management, and scaling up.
Comparison of flexible ureteroscopy damage rates for lower pole renal stones by laser fiber type
Authors: Forbes Connor M. , Rebullar Karla A. , Teichman Joel M.H.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Laser lithotripsy, often used during ureteronephroscopy (URNS), requires the Ho:YAG optical fiber transmit energy via total internal reflection (TIR). In critical lower pole deflections, energy may refract into the cladding causing fiber failure and scope damage. New optical fiber technology aims to have increased tolerance for high degrees of flexion. We compared two brands of laser fibers with sub‐300 micron cores (Sureflex, Boston Flexiva) to determine failure rates and scope repair costs.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study comparing these two fibers for patients at a single academic institution who underwent flexible URNS with laser lithotripsy was performed from September 2013 to October 2015. Preoperative imaging was evaluated for stone burden and location. Intraoperative variables were collected, including energy use, lower pole lasering, laser fiber malfunction, and scope damage. The primary outcome was scope damage caused by laser fiber malfunction. Secondary outcome was scope repair costs. Fisher's exact test and two tailed t‐tests were used.

Results

Of 223 subjects, 143 met inclusion criteria, and 8 had laser fiber failure. All failures occurred with the Sureflex fiber (8 of 63, 13%) vs the Boston Flexiva fiber (0 of 80, 0%) (P < 0.01). Malfunctions occurred in 8 of 79 lower pole stone applications versus 0 of 64 non‐lower pole stone laser applications (P < 0.01). No other risk factor was different between fiber cohorts, except energy setting. Scope repair cost averaged $9155 CDN, yielding an average repair cost per case of $1144 CDN for the Sureflex versus $0 for the Boston fiber (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Both optical fibers perform well in non‐lower pole locations. However, the challenge for laser fibers in lower pole URNS is to maintain TIR. Fiber failure reflects an inability to maintain reflection and is not based on energy used or stone burden. The Boston Flexiva laser fiber has fewer failures, resulting in $0 repair cost per case, compared to the Sureflex fiber in URNS with an average repair cost of $1144 CDN per case. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:798–801, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of symmetry after smile reconstruction for flaccid facial paralysis with combined fascia lata grafts and functional gracilis transfer for static suspension or gracilis transfer alone
Authors: Kiefer Jurij , Braig David , Thiele Jan R. , Bannasch Holger , Stark G. Björn , Eisenhardt Steffen U.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Facial paralysis has a profound impact on functionality and esthetics of the oral region. In patients with strong skin laxity and soft tissue ptosis, functional smile reconstruction is challenging due to the accentuated asymmetry at rest. Thus, the purpose of the study was to analyze facial symmetry in this patient clientele following a combination of dynamic reanimation with fascial strips for static suspension compared to functional gracilis transfer alone.

Methods

In 2014, we altered the single‐stage approach for microsurgical smile reconstruction in patients with significant soft tissue ptosis by adding fascia lata grafts for static support. We evaluated 6 patients (mean age 57.8 ± 5.2, group A) who underwent the combined procedure, and compared their results to 6 patients with flaccid facial paralysis who were treated before 2014 and received a functional gracilis transfer alone (mean age 52.5 ± 7.5, group B). To test the efficacy of the technique, we retrospectively analyzed the correction of the oral asymmetry as well as nasal and philtral deviation by computer‐assisted photograph analysis 6 months postoperatively.

Results

The comparative analysis revealed a significant postoperative improvement of the oral asymmetry (A: 90.0 ± 5.0% relative correction at rest vs. B: 62.6 ± 17.2%, P < .05), nasal (A: 0.4 ± 0.2 vs. B: 0.7 ± 0.4 mm, P < .05), and philtral deviation (A: 0.5 ± 0.6 vs. B: 2.8 ± 1.8 mm, P < .05) in group A.

Conclusions

The combined procedure for dynamic facial reanimation allows for immediate correction of the oral asymmetry and improves overall outcome in patients with advanced soft tissue ptosis and oral asymmetry at rest.
Efficiently train and validate a RapidPlan model through APQM scoring
Authors: Fusella Marco , Scaggion Alessandro , Pivato Nicola , Rossato Marco Andrea , Zorz Alessandra , Paiusco Marta
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The aim of this study was to propose and validate an intuitive method for training and to validate knowledge‐based planning (KBP) systems based on a patient‐specific plan quality scoring.

Methods

A sample of 80 clinical plans of prostate cancer patients were ranked on the basis of the Adjusted Plan Quality Metric (APQM%). This quality metric was computed normalizing the Plan Quality Metric (PQM%) score to the best possible OAR sparing estimated by the Feasibility DVH (FDVH) algorithm. Two different plan libraries were created, purging all the plans below the first quartile or below the median the APQM% distribution. These libraries were used to populate and train two RapidPlan models: respectively, the APMQ25% and the APMQ50% models. No further refinements or actions were undertaken on these two models. Their performances were benchmarked against another two RapidPlan models. An Uncleaned model, which was populated and trained with the initial sample of 80 plans, and a Cleaned model, obtained through the standard iterative cleaning and refinement process suggested by the vendor and in literature. The outcomes of a planning test based on 20 patients within the training library (closed loop) and 20 patients outside of the training library (open‐loop) were compared through various DVH metrics and the PQM% score.

Results

The selection through APQM% thresholding roughly preserves the geometric variety of the Cleaned model; only the APMQ50% model showed a modest broadness reduction. The models generated through APQM% thresholding showed target coverage and OARs sparing equal or superior to the Uncleaned and Cleaned models both for the closed‐ and the open‐loop tests. No significant differences were found between the four models. PQM% analysis ranked the overall plan quality as: 86.5 ± 6.5% APQM50%, 83.1 ± 5.9% APQM25%, 80.39 ± 10.6% Cleaned and 79.4 ± 8.5% Uncleaned in the closed‐loop test; 84.9 ± 7.6% APQM50%, 82.6 ± 7.9% APQM25%, 80.39 ± 10.6% Cleaned and 79.4 ± 8.5% Uncleaned in the open‐loop test.

Conclusions

Forward feeding a RapidPlan model through a thresholding selection based on APQM% is proven to produce equal or better results than a model based on a manually and iteratively refined population. A tighter APQM% threshold turns approximately into a higher average quality of plans generated with RapidPlan. A trade‐off must be found between the mean quality of the KBP library and its numerosity. The proposed KBP feeding method helps the KBP user, because it makes the model refinement more intuitive and less time consuming.
Cut‐off Serum Zinc Concentration Affecting the Appetite, Growth, and Nutrition Status of Undernourished Children Supplemented With Zinc
Authors: Chao Hsun‐Chin , Chang Yi‐Jung , Huang Wan‐Ling
Published: March 2018

Background

Zinc supplementation has varied effects on the linear growth of children who exhibited stunted growth.

Materials and Methods

This observational study involved 761 undernourished children, aged 2–10 years, who received a 24‐week course of 10‐mg elemental zinc per day. The clinical parameters for evaluation included appetite, height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Evaluation of the effect of zinc supplementation was stratified by the initial serum zinc concentration.

Results

The enrolled participants comprised 390 boys and 371 girls. The mean age was 5.63 years. The height‐for‐age, weight‐for‐age, and BMI‐for‐age z scores increased gradually during the study period. When compared with the children with a serum zinc concentration ≥75 μg/dL, the height, weight, weight‐for‐age, and BMI‐for‐age z scores increased significantly in the patients with serum zinc concentrations of <75 μg/dL after 12‐ and 24‐week zinc supplementation (all P < .001). BMI, height‐for‐age z score, and appetite also increased significantly in patients with serum zinc concentrations of <75 μg/dL after 24‐week zinc supplementation (P = .003, .019, and <.001, respectively).

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that undernourished children with serum zinc concentrations of <75 μg/dL experienced greater increments in appetite and growth as a result of zinc supplementation.
Mbd2 enables tumourigenesis within the intestine while preventing tumour‐promoting inflammation
Authors: May Stephanie , Owen Heather , Phesse Toby J , Greenow Kirsty R , Jones Gareth‐Rhys , Blackwood Adam , Cook Peter C , Towers Christopher , Gallimore Awen M , Williams Geraint T , Stürzl Michael , Britzen‐Laurent Nathalie , Sansom Owen J , MacDonald Andrew S , Bird Adrian P , Clarke Alan R , Parry Lee
Published: March 2018

Epigenetic regulation plays a key role in the link between inflammation and cancer. Here we examine Mbd2, which mediates epigenetic transcriptional silencing by binding to methylated DNA. In separate studies the Mbd2−/− mouse has been shown (1) to be resistant to intestinal tumourigenesis and (2) to have an enhanced inflammatory/immune response, observations that are inconsistent with the links between inflammation and cancer. To clarify its role in tumourigenesis and inflammation, we used constitutive and conditional models of Mbd2 deletion to explore its epithelial and non‐epithelial roles in the intestine. Using a conditional model, we found that suppression of intestinal tumourigenesis is due primarily to the absence of Mbd2 within the epithelia. Next, we demonstrated, using the DSS colitis model, that non‐epithelial roles of Mbd2 are key in preventing the transition from acute to tumour‐promoting chronic inflammation. Combining models revealed that prior to inflammation the altered Mbd2−/− immune response plays a role in intestinal tumour suppression. However, following inflammation the intestine converts from tumour suppressive to tumour promoting. To summarise, in the intestine the normal function of Mbd2 is exploited by cancer cells to enable tumourigenesis, while in the immune system it plays a key role in preventing tumour‐enabling inflammation. Which role is dominant depends on the inflammation status of the intestine. As environmental interactions within the intestine can alter DNA methylation patterns, we propose that Mbd2 plays a key role in determining whether these interactions are anti‐ or pro‐tumourigenic and this makes it a useful new epigenetic model for inflammation‐associated carcinogenesis. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
CRIPTO promotes an aggressive tumour phenotype and resistance to treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Karkampouna Sofia , van der Helm Danny , Gray Peter C , Chen Lanpeng , Klima Irena , Grosjean Joël , Burgmans Mark C , Farina‐Sarasqueta Arantza , Snaar‐Jagalska Ewa B , Stroka Deborah M , Terracciano Luigi , van Hoek Bart , Schaapherder Alexander F , Osanto Susan , Thalmann George N , Verspaget Hein W , Coenraad Minneke J , Kruithof‐de Julio Marianna
Published: March 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. Despite increasing treatment options for this disease, prognosis remains poor. CRIPTO (TDGF1) protein is expressed at high levels in several human tumours and promotes oncogenic phenotype. Its expression has been correlated to poor prognosis in HCC. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the basis for the effects of CRIPTO in HCC. We investigated CRIPTO expression levels in three cohorts of clinical cirrhotic and HCC specimens. We addressed the role of CRIPTO in hepatic tumourigenesis using Cre‐loxP‐controlled lentiviral vectors expressing CRIPTO in cell line‐derived xenografts. Responses to standard treatments (sorafenib, doxorubicin) were assessed directly on xenograft‐derived ex vivo tumour slices. CRIPTO‐overexpressing patient‐derived xenografts were established and used for ex vivo drug response assays. The effects of sorafenib and doxorubicin treatment in combination with a CRIPTO pathway inhibitor were tested in ex vivo cultures of xenograft models and 3D cultures. CRIPTO protein was found highly expressed in human cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma specimens but not in those of healthy participants. Stable overexpression of CRIPTO in human HepG2 cells caused epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, increased expression of cancer stem cell markers, and enhanced cell proliferation and migration. HepG2‐CRIPTO cells formed tumours when injected into immune‐compromised mice, whereas HepG2 cells lacking stable CRIPTO overexpression did not. High‐level CRIPTO expression in xenograft models was associated with resistance to sorafenib, which could be modulated using a CRIPTO pathway inhibitor in ex vivo tumour slices. Our data suggest that a subgroup of CRIPTO‐expressing HCC patients may benefit from a combinatorial treatment scheme and that sorafenib resistance may be circumvented by inhibition of the CRIPTO pathway. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incidence of head and neck cancer in children: A Danish nationwide study from 1978 to 2014
Authors: Grønhøj Christian , Hjalgrim Lisa , Jakobsen Kathrine K. , Charabi Birgitte , Mirian Christian , Laier Gunnar H. , Kiss Katalin , Rechnitzer Catherine , Friborg Jeppe , von Buchwald Christian , Hjuler Thomas
Published: March 2018

Background

Pediatric head and neck malignancies are rare and only a few descriptive epidemiological studies have been published. Using unique nationwide registries, we report age‐specific incidence rates of head and neck cancer (HNC) among children during four decades.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Danish Cancer Registry. We included children aged 0–14 years diagnosed between January 1, 1978 and December 31, 2014 with extra‐orbital, nonskin and nonbone HNC. Patients were divided into nine groups in regard to tumor location: oral cavity, oropharynx, nasopharynx, hypopharynx, thyroid, major salivary glands, larynx, and middle ear. Based on the World Health Organization standard population and Danish age‐specific population counts, age‐adjusted incidence rates (AAIR) and average annual percentage change (AAPC) were calculated and examined for trends.

Results

In total, 169 children (55.6% females) were registered with a malignant tumor in the head and neck region. The AAIR increased with an AAPC of 2.2% (95% CI, 0.8–3.7%). Females showed an AAIR of 0.54 per 100,000 person years compared to that of males, with 0.41 per 100,000 person years (P < 0.01). The AAIR was higher among children aged 10–14 years compared to 0–9‐year‐old children (P < 0.01). Based on morphology, a significant increase in AAIR was observed for sarcomas, with an increase of 0.16–0.27 per 100,000 person years (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The incidence rate of pediatric HNC was higher among females and evidence of increasing rates was observed during 1978–2014, explained by an increase mainly in sarcomas.
Unidirectional spread‐tow carbon fiber/polypropylene composites reinforced with mechanically aligned multi‐walled carbon nanotubes and exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets
Authors: Kim Byeong‐Joo , Deka Biplab K. , Bae Il‐Joon , Choi Dong‐Hyuk , Son Dong‐Il , Park Young‐Bin
Published: March 2018

We investigated efficient methods to maximize the mechanical properties of carbon fiber/polypropylene (PP) composites by combining unidirectional spread‐tow carbon fibers (USCFs) and mechanically stretched PP films reinforced with aligned carbon nanomaterials (CNMs), such as multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets (xGnPs). CNM/PP composite films were fabricated using film extrusion process, which resulted in tension‐induced orientation of CNMs. The influences of CNMs and their orientations in the films, the speed of the drawing rollers (take‐up speed), and the degree of crystallinity on the mechanical properties of nanocomposites were investigated. Multiscale hybrid composites (MHCs) consisting of USCFs and PP films reinforced with MWCNTs and xGnPs were manufactured by hot pressing. As compared with neat USCF/PP composites, USCF/PP composites containing 1 wt% aligned CNMs showed up to 18.3 and 77.3% increases in tensile modulus and strength, respectively, and 68.4 and 36.1% increases in flexural modulus and strength, respectively. In parallel, modeling and simulation of CNM/PP composite films and CNM/USCF/PP composites were performed to predict the tensile properties, taking into account the effects of CNM orientation. The mechanical properties of both nanocomposite films and MHCs were most dominantly affected by the degree of polymer crystallinity and CNM orientation. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1251–E1261, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Application of minimally invasive injectable conductive hydrogels as stimulating scaffolds for myocardial tissue engineering
Authors: Ketabat Farinaz , Khorshidi Sajedeh , Karkhaneh Akbar
Published: March 2018

So far, several methods for myocardial tissue engineering have been developed to regenerate myocardium and even create contractile heart muscles. Among these approaches, hydrogel based methods have attracted much attention due to their ability to mimic the architecture of native extracellular matrix. Injectable hydrogels are a specific class of hydrogels which can be formed in situ by physical and/or chemical crosslinking. Generally, using these hydrogels is more advantageous because they are minimally (less) invasive in comparison with open surgery. Moreover, with respect to the fact that ‘myocardium is a conductive tissue’, utilization of conductive polymers for myocardial tissue engineering has demonstrated promising results. Both the injectable hydrogels and conductive polymers have some merits and demerits, but studies show that using a combination of them has prominently enhanced regeneration of the myocardium. In this review, the focus is on injectable hydrogels, conductive polymers and injectable conductive hydrogels for myocardial tissue engineering. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The association between locus of control, emotion regulation and borderline personality disorder features
Authors: Hope Nora H. , Wakefield Matthew A. , Northey Lynnaea , Chapman Alexander L.
Published: April 2018

Background

Locus of control (LOC) represents individuals' beliefs about how much control they have over outcomes in their life. Previous research has found an association between external LOC and psychopathology. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by mood instability, identity disturbance and difficulties in impulse control.

Aims

The aims of this study are to evaluate the relationship between BPD features and LOC in a non‐clinical sample and to assess whether external LOC is associated with BPD features after controlling for symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study of 328 university students, we assessed LOC, BPD features, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties in emotion regulation and cognitive emotion regulation as potential mediators.

Results

We found an association between external LOC and BPD features after controlling for symptoms of depression, anxiety and demographic covariates. Assessing for indirect effects through potential mediators, we found that difficulties in emotion regulation, but not cognitive emotion regulation, partially mediated the relationship between external LOC and BPD features.

Conclusions

Findings provide support for a unique association between external LOC and BPD features and suggest a role for external LOC in related emotion regulation problems. Future investigations using experimental designs should examine potential causal associations and the effect of changing LOC on emotion regulation and features of BPD. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Targeted LC‐MS Strategy for Low‐Abundant HLA Class‐I‐Presented Peptide Detection Identifies Novel Human Papillomavirus T‐Cell Epitopes
Authors: Blatnik Renata , Mohan Nitya , Bonsack Maria , Falkenby Lasse G. , Hoppe Stephanie , Josef Kathrin , Steinbach Alina , Becker Sara , Nadler Wiebke M. , Rucevic Marijana , Larsen Martin R. , Salek Mogjiborahman , Riemer Angelika B.
Published: March 2018

For rational design of therapeutic vaccines, detailed knowledge about target epitopes that are endogenously processed and truly presented on infected or transformed cells is essential. Many potential target epitopes (viral or mutation‐derived), are presented at low abundance. Therefore, direct detection of these peptides remains a challenge. This study presents a method for the isolation and LC‐MS3‐based targeted detection of low‐abundant human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class‐I‐presented peptides from transformed cells. Human papillomavirus (HPV) was used as a model system, as the HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7 are attractive therapeutic vaccination targets and expressed in all transformed cells, but present at low abundance due to viral immune evasion mechanisms. The presented approach included preselection of target antigen‐derived peptides by in silico predictions and in vitro binding assays. The peptide purification process was tailored to minimize contaminants after immunoprecipitation of HLA‐peptide complexes, while keeping high isolation yields of low‐abundant target peptides. The subsequent targeted LC‐MS3 detection allowed for increased sensitivity, which resulted in successful detection of the known HLA‐A2‐restricted epitope E711–19 and ten additional E7‐derived peptides on the surface of HPV16‐transformed cells. T‐cell reactivity was shown for all the 11 detected peptides in ELISpot assays, which shows that detection by our approach has high predictive value for immunogenicity. The presented strategy is suitable for validating even low‐abundant candidate epitopes to be true immunotherapy targets.
Photoinduced electron‐transfer reactions of tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II)‐based carbonic anhydrase inhibitors tethering plural binding sites
Authors: Suwa Mikiko , Imamura Narumi , Awano Pirika , Nakata Eiji , Takashima Hiroshi
Published: March 2018

Tris(2,2′‐bipyridine)ruthenium(II) complex‐based carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitors, [Ru(bpy)2(bpydbs)]2+ {bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine and bpydbs = 2,2′‐bipyridinyl‐4,4′‐dicarboxilic acid bis[(2‐{2‐[2‐(4‐sulfamoylbenzoylamino)ethoxy]ethoxy}ethyl)amide]} and [Ru(bpydbs)3]2+, tethering plural benzenesulfonamide groups have been prepared. The CA catalytic activity was effectively suppressed by these synthetic [Ru(bpy)2(bpydbs)]2+ and [Ru(bpydbs)3]2+ inhibitors, and their dissociation constants at pH = 7.2 and at 25°C were determined to be KI = 0.93 ± 0.02 μM and KI = 0.24 ± 0.03 μM, respectively. Next, 2 photoinduced electron‐transfer (ET) systems comprising a Ru2+‐CA complex and an electron acceptor, such as chloropentaamminecobalt(III) ([CoCl(NH3)5]2+) or methylviologen (MV2+) were studied. In the presence of CA and a sacrificial electron acceptor, such as pentaamminechlorocobalt(III) complex, the photoexcited triplet state of 3([Ru(II)]2+)* was quenched through an intermolecular photoinduced ET mechanism. In case of the [Ru(bpydbs)3]2+‐CA‐MV2+ system, the photoexcited triplet state of 3([Ru(bpydbs)3]2+)* was quenched by sacrificial quencher through an intermolecular photoinduced ET mechanism, giving the oxidized [Ru(bpydbs)3]3+. Then the following intramolecular ET from the amino acid residue, Tyr6, near the active site of CA proceeded. We observed a transient absorption around at 410 nm, arising from the formation of a Tyr•+ in the [Ru(bpydbs)3]2+‐CA‐MV2+ system. These artificial Ru(II)‐CA systems may clearly demonstrate both intermolecular and intramolecular photoinduced ET reactions of protein and could be one of the interesting models of the ET proteins. Their photophysical properties and the detailed ET mechanisms are discussed in order to clarify the multistep ET reactions.
Polyurethane elastomers based on amphiphilic poly(caprolactone)‐b‐poly(butadiene)‐b‐poly(caprolactone) triblockcopolyols
Authors: Fink Irina , Eling Berend , Pöselt Elmar , Luinstra Gerrit A.
Published: March 2018

Hydroxyl‐terminated poly(butadiene) (HTPB; Mn = 2100 g mol−1) was capped with 30 and 60 wt % of ɛ‐caprolactone to reach amphiphilic triblock copolymers in form of capped poly(butadiene) CPB. The former (CPB30; Mn = 3300 g/mol) is amorphous with a glass temperature of −56 °C. CPB60 (Mn = 4000 g mol−1) is semi‐crystalline with a melting point of 50 °C and a glass transition at −47 °C. The CPBs, HTPB and polycaprolactone diol (Mn = 2000 g mol−1) were used as soft segment components in the preparation of polyurethane elastomers (PUE), using a 1/1 mixture of an MDI prepolymer and uretonimine modified MDI, and hard phase components in form of 1,3‐propane diol, 1,4‐butane diol, and 1,5‐pentane diol. CPB‐based elastomers with 1,4 butane diol (8 wt %) show hard domains as fringed aggregates with a better connection to the continuous phase than the HTPB‐based PUE. The soft segment glass transition temperature (Tg) is at −28 °C for HTPB‐based PUE and at −43 °C for those of CPB. The tensile strength of the CPB30&60‐based PUE is found between 20 and 30 MPa at an elongation at break of 400% and 550%, respectively. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 1162–1172
Synthesis of telechelic anthraquinone‐functionalized polybutadiene via ROMP and study of its photo‐oxidation and UV crosslinking behaviors
Authors: Lee Jeonghyun , Moon Bongjin
Published: March 2018

Telechelic anthraquinone‐functionalized polybutadiene (AQ‐PB‐AQ) was synthesized by ring opening metathesis polymerization to achieve homogeneous dispersion of AQ groups in the polymer matrix. It was observed that the AQ end groups act as a sensitizing group resulting in photo‐induced crosslinking and oxidation reaction at the olefin groups in the PB. The process was confirmed by comparing the polymer's mass loss and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra with those of telechelic diacetoxy‐functionalized PB (AcO‐PB‐OAc) which did not show any difference before and after ultraviolet irradiation. Homogeneity of the AQ groups in PB matrix results in rapid crosslinking of PB in a short period of time (<4 min) while a simple blend of AQ methyl ester in AcO‐PB‐OAc matrix did not show such behavior. Photo‐oxidative reaction has concurrently occurred during the crosslinking reaction. Generation of OH, OOH, and carbonyl groups in the matrix during the photo‐oxidation was verified by FTIR, elemental analysis, and water contact angle measurements. A plausible mechanism for the process was proposed in which the photo‐sensitized AQ groups abstract hydrogen from the PB chain to yield reactive radical species, initiating oxidative crosslinking, and degradation of PB or reduction of AQ to hydroanthraquinone species. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 1249–1258