bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value in palliative cancer surgery: A critical assessment
Authors: Folkert Ian W. , Roses Robert E.
Published: July 2016

Emergency operations are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and cost compared to elective operations. Palliative and emergent surgery for patients with advanced malignancies is associated with additional risk and remains controversial. Emergent or palliative interventions can be broadly categorized according to indication. Tumor related complications (bleeding, obstruction, or perforation) merit specific consideration, as do specific presentations such as pneumoperitoneum, pneumatosis intestinalis, or peritonitis from other causes that may arise during active therapy for malignancies. Although nonoperative, endoscopic, and interventional treatment modalities are frequently available, surgery remains the only effective therapy in selected situations such as small intestinal obstruction and tumor perforation. Selection of patients for surgery requires consideration of factors including overall prognosis, performance status, and patients’ priorities. Selection and risk assessment tools underscore the limited capacity of patients’ with higher risk features for durable recovery but do not supplant nuanced clinical judgment. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:311–315. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immediate breast reconstruction following mastectomy in pregnant women with breast cancer
Authors: Caragacianu Diana L. , Mayer Erica L. , Chun Yoon S. , Caterson Stephanie , Bellon Jennifer R. , Wong Julia S. , Troyan Susan , Rhei Esther , Dominici Laura S. , Economy Katherine E. , Tung Nadine M. , Schapira Lidia , Partridge Ann , Calvillo Katherina Zabicki
Published: July 2016

Background

Surgical management of breast cancer in pregnancy (BCP) requires balancing benefits of therapy with potential risks to the developing fetus. Minimal data describe outcomes after mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction (IR) in pregnant patients.

Methods

Retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent IR after mastectomy within a BCP cohort. Parameters included intra‐ and post‐operative complications, short‐term maternal/fetal outcomes, surgery duration, and delayed reconstruction in non‐IR cohort.

Results

Of 82 patients with BCP, 29 (35%) had mastectomy during pregnancy: 10 (34%) had IR, 19(66%) did not. All IR utilized tissue expander (TE) placement. Mean gestational age (GA) at IR was 16.2 weeks. Mean surgery duration was 198 min with IR versus 157 min without IR. Those with IR delivered at, or close to, term infants of normal birthweight. No fetal or major obstetrical complications were seen. Post‐mastectomy radiation (PMRT) was provided after pregnancy in 2 (20%) patients in the IR cohort and 12 (63%) in the non‐IR cohort. All patients in the IR cohort successfully transitioned to permanent implant.

Conclusions

This report represents one of the largest series describing IR during BCP. IR after mastectomy increased surgery duration, but was not associated with adverse obstetrical or fetal outcomes. IR with TE may preserve reconstructive options when PMRT is indicated. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:140–143. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contrast CT‐scan for preoperative planning of VSLN (vascularized submental lymph‐node) transfer
Authors: Mullan Damian , Kosutic Damir
Published: July 2016

Background and Objectives

Vascularized submental lymph‐node (VSLN) transfer is gaining popularity as a reliable donor‐site in microsurgical treatment of lymphedema. However, variations in number, location, and blood supply to submental lymph‐nodes as well as associate skin‐paddle make a predictable flap harvest a challenging task. We analyzed this region on preoperative imaging, to improve accuracy of VSLN transfers.

Methods

Contrast CT‐scan analysis of VSLN‐flap areas was performed in 58 patients. Number and location of visibly vascularized lymph nodes as well as submental artery perforators were identified, documented, and compared.

Results

About 409 lymph‐nodes were found in 50 patients. No significant difference was found in the number of nodes between the right and left side. Significantly more lymph‐nodes were found in zones 1B than zones 1A. In eight patients nodes were not identified. In the remaining 50 patients position of the visibly vascularized submental lymph‐node was predictable.

Conclusion

Significantly less lymph‐nodes can be found in zone 1a then zone 1b. Location of visibly vascularized lymph nodes can be identified predictably in relation to bony landmarks. Blood supply to 1a nodes and particularly location of dominant skin perforator is unpredictable due to potential crossover. Contrast CT scan can help identify location and blood supply to submental lymph‐nodes in most patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2017;115:23–26. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does finding early recurrence improve outcomes, and at what cost?
Authors: Le Anh‐Thu , Tzeng Ching‐Wei D.
Published: July 2016

The putative goal of surveillance is the early detection of recurrence while both the cancer and patient are still treatable. To be cost and clinically effective, surveillance requires a tailored approach based on stage, tumor biology, conditional survival, and available treatment options. Although surveillance is the major component of care for cancer patients after potentially curative treatment, current guidelines for surveillance lack the high‐level data seen on the treatment side of the patient care continuum. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:329–335. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Smoking status and symptom burden in surgical head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Sterba Katherine R. , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Carpenter Matthew J. , Tooze Janet A. , Hatcher Jeanne L. , Sullivan Christopher , Tetrick Lee Anne , Warren Graham W. , Day Terrence A. , Alberg Anthony J. , Weaver Kathryn E.
Published: July 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients who smoke are at risk for poor treatment outcomes. This study evaluated symptom burden and clinical, sociodemographic, and psychosocial factors associated with smoking in surgical patients to identify potential targets for supportive care services.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Individuals with HNSCC of the oral cavity, larynx, or pharynx were recruited from two cancer centers and completed questionnaires assessing smoking status (never, former, current/recent), patient characteristics, and symptoms before surgery.

Results

Of the 103 patients enrolled, 73% were male, 52% were stage IV, 41% reported current/recent smoking, and 37% reported former smoking. Current/recent smokers were less likely than former smokers to have adequate finances (53% vs. 89%, P = .001) and be married/partnered (55% vs. 79%, P = .03). Current/recent smokers were also more likely than both former and never smokers to be unemployed (49% vs. 40% and 13%, respectively, all P = .02) and lack health insurance (17% vs. 5% and 13%, respectively, all P ≤.04). Fatalistic beliefs (P = .03) and lower religiosity (P =.04) were more common in current/recent than never smokers. In models adjusted for sociodemographic/clinical factors, current/recent smokers reported more problems than former and never smokers with swallowing, speech, and cough (P ≤.04). Current/recent smokers also reported more problems than never smokers with social contact, feeling ill, and weight loss (P ≤ .02).

Conclusions

HNSCC patients reporting current/recent smoking before surgery have high‐risk clinical and sociodemographic features that may predispose them to poor postoperative outcomes. Unique symptoms in HNSCC smokers may be useful targets for patient‐centered clinical monitoring and intervention.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 127:127–133, 2017
Quantification and characterization of coastal dissolved organic matter by high‐performance size exclusion chromatography with ultraviolet absorption, fluorescence, and total organic carbon analyses
Authors: Shimotori Koichi , Satou Takayuki , Imai Akio , Kawasaki Nobuyuki , Komatsu Kazuhiro , Kohzu Ayato , Tomioka Noriko , Shinohara Ryuichiro , Miura Shingo
Published: July 2016

Molecular size and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) distributions of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in seawater were determined qualitatively and quantitatively by high‐performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC). To estimate the relationship between molecular size distribution and the DOC concentration of seawater DOM, seawater was desalinated with an electric dialyzer. The recent technological advancements of desalination make us possible to recover a high percentage of seawater DOM. Surface coastal seawater samples were collected from three locations in Japan: Tokyo Bay, Kashima Port, and Cape Inubo. Samples were evaluated by a chromatography system coupled with ultraviolet (UV) absorbance, fluorescence, and non‐dispersive infrared total organic carbon detectors in series. Two peaks, 1 (1.24 × 105−1.54 × 105 Da) and 2 (9.48 × 102−1.81 × 103 Da), were detected in all sample chromatograms. Peak 1 showed little fluorescence and UV absorption in all samples. It has been shown that carbohydrates, one of the main components of seawater DOM, exhibit almost no fluorescence or UV absorption; thus, Peak 1 could mainly consist of carbohydrates which are usually labile DOM. Total DOC concentrations of the Tokyo Bay, Kashima Port, and Cape Inubo were 1.38, 0.92, and 0.80 mg C L−1, respectively. Peak 2 accounted for 75–80% of the total DOC and showed a substantial humic‐like fluorescence and UV absorption in all samples. These results indicate that the photochemical characteristics of seawater DOM significantly differ depending on its molecular size. Thus, analysis of molecular size with our HPSEC provides a new approach for quantitative and qualitative characterization of seawater DOM.
Basal Ganglia dysfunctions in movement disorders: What can be learned from computational simulations
Authors: Schroll Henning , Hamker Fred H.
Published: July 2016

The basal ganglia are a complex neuronal system that is impaired in several movement disorders, including Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and dystonia. Empirical studies have provided valuable insights into the brain dysfunctions underlying these disorders. The systems‐level perspective, however, of how patients' motor, cognitive, and emotional impairments originate from known brain dysfunctions has been a challenge to empirical investigations. These causal relations have been analyzed via computational modeling, a method that describes the simulation of interacting brain processes in a computer system. In this article, we review computational insights into the brain dysfunctions underlying Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and dystonia, with particular foci on dysfunctions of the dopamine system, basal ganglia pathways, and neuronal oscillations. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Anastomosis to the common and proper digital vessels in free flap soft tissue reconstruction of the hand
Authors: Diaz‐Abele J. , Hayakawa T. , Buchel E. , Brooks D. , Buntic R. , Safa B. , Islur A.
Published: July 2016

Objective

This study seeks to demonstrate the safety of anastomosing free flaps to the common or proper digital artery, and to the volar or dorsal digital vein in soft tissue reconstruction of the hand; as well, as to discuss the advantages of this technique.

Methods

Retrospective review of all patients who underwent free flap reconstruction of the hand in two institutions over a period of 5 years.

Results

A total of 29 free flaps (9 great toe pulp, 7 anterolateral thigh, 6 second toe pulp, 4 radial artery perforator, 2 partial medial rectus, 1 lateral arm) in 28 patients met our inclusion criteria. All recipient vessels were the proper or common digital artery and the volar or dorsal digital vein. There was one case of venous congestion that resolved with leeching. There was no partial or total loss of any of the flaps.

Conclusion

Anastomosing soft tissue free flaps to the common or proper digital artery, and the volar or dorsal digital vein is a safe and effective approach with numerous advantages that should be considered in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects of the hand. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 38:21–25, 2018.
Quantitative assessment of organ distribution of dietary protein‐bound 13C‐labeled Nɛ‐carboxymethyllysine after a chronic oral exposure in mice
Authors: Tessier Frédéric J. , Niquet‐Léridon Céline , Jacolot Philippe , Jouquand Céline , Genin Michaël , Schmidt Ann‐Marie , Grossin Nicolas , Boulanger Eric
Published: July 2016

Scope

Nɛ‐Carboxymethyl‐lysine (CML) is a prominent advanced glycation end‐product which is not only found in vivo but also in food. It is known that a percentage of the dietary CML (dCML) is absorbed into the circulation and only partly excreted in the urine. Several studies have tried to measure how much dCML remains in tissues. However obstacles to interpreting the data have been found.

Methods and results

A new protocol which discriminates dCML from native CML (nCML) has been developed. Three CML isotopes with different mass‐to‐charge ratios were used: nCML Nε‐carboxymethyl‐L‐lysine, dCML Nε‐[13C]carboxy[13C]methyl‐L‐lysine and internal standard Nε‐carboxymethyl‐L‐[4,4,5,5‐2H4]lysine. Wild‐type (n = 7) and RAGE−/− (n = 8) mice were fed for 30 days with either a control, or a BSA‐bound dCML‐enriched diet. Organs were analyzed for nCML and dCML using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Mice exposed to dCML showed an accumulation in all tissues tested except fat. The rate of deposition was high (81–320 μgdCML/g dry matter) in kidneys, intestine, and lungs and low (<5 μg/g) in heart, muscle, and liver. This accumulation was not RAGE dependent.

Conclusion

The kidney is not the only organ affected by the accumulation of dCML. Its high accumulation in other tissues and organs may also, however, have important physiological consequences.
Overweight, obesity and the risk of gallbladder and extrahepatic bile duct cancers: A meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Li Liqing , Gan Yong , Li Wenzheng , Wu Chunmei , Lu Zuxun
Published: July 2016

Objective

Epidemiological studies have repeatedly investigated the association between excess body weight and the risk of biliary tract cancer with inconsistent results. The objective of this study was to quantitatively assess the associations between overweight and obesity and the risk of biliary tract cancer.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases up to August 2015 was conducted, and the reference lists of retrieved articles for additional relevant studies were manually searched.

Results

Fourteen prospective cohort studies and 15 case–control studies were included in this meta‐analysis. These studies included 11,448,397 participants (6,733 patients with gallbladder cancer [GBC] and 5,798 patients with extrahepatic bile duct cancer [EBDC]) with follow‐up durations ranging from 5 to 23 years. Among overweight adults, the pooled RR was 1.17 (95% CI, 1.07–1.28) for GBC and 1.26 (95% CI, 1.14–1.39) for EBDC, and among people with obesity, the pooled RR was 1.62 (95% CI, 1.49–1.75) for GBC and 1.48 (95% CI, 1.21–1.81) for EBDC. Visual inspection of the funnel plots and the Begg's and the Egger's tests did not show enough evidence of publication bias.

Conclusions

Integrated evidence from this meta‐analysis suggests that excess body weight is associated with a significantly increased risk of GBC and EBDC.
Increased rates of body dissatisfaction, depressive symptoms, and suicide attempts in Jamaican teens with sickle cell disease
Authors: Bhatt‐Poulose Komal , James Kenneth , Reid Marvin , Harrison Abigail , Asnani Monika
Published: July 2016

Background

This study aims to examine the association of body image and weight perceptions with risk of depression and suicidal attempts in Jamaican adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD).

Methods

Adolescents with SCD and a national sample of Jamaican adolescents completed a questionnaire examining body image, weight perceptions, and risk for depression.

Results

Perceived and desired body images were similar for both groups. Adolescents with SCD had higher levels of “negative body satisfaction” (43.9% vs. 33.9%; P = 0.03), risk for depression (28.7% vs. 19.3%; P = 0.01), and attempted suicide (12.4% vs. 6.6%; P = 0.02) than national sample. Risk of depression was higher in those who perceived themselves to be over or underweight, and lower in those with more friends and attending school. Females and those with body image dissatisfaction were more likely to have attempted suicide. Within the SCD adolescents, girls were at greater odds of having mental health issues.

Conclusions

Jamaican adolescents with SCD have significantly higher rates of negative body satisfaction and depressive symptoms, and nearly twice the rate of attempted suicide, compared with their healthy peers. This underscores the need for healthcare professionals to better explore and discuss healthy weight, body satisfaction, and coping with the demands and uncertainties of having a chronic illness with Jamaican adolescents with SCD, even while promoting body acceptance and good self‐esteem. Screening for mood disorders is strongly recommended and gender‐specific interventions should be developed. Healthcare professionals need to encourage positive social interactions that improve adolescents’ mental health.
Cognitive functioning in children from Nigeria with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Oluwole Olubusola B. , Noll Robert B. , Winger Daniel G. , Akinyanju Olu , Novelli Enrico M.
Published: July 2016

Background

Cognitive impairment is a major neurological complication of sickle cell anemia (SCA) in the United States, but there are limited studies of cognitive impairment in Nigeria, the country with the highest SCA burden. We hypothesized that children from Nigeria with SCA have worse cognitive functioning than comparison children and explored the association between lower cognitive functioning and key laboratory demographic and socioeconomic variables among children with SCA.

Procedure

We conducted a cross‐sectional survey, supplemented by anthropomorphic and laboratory data, among a convenience sample of children from Nigeria with and without SCA. We administered the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Version IV. Our primary outcome measures included (1) estimated IQ (Est. IQ), (2) working memory (WM), and (3) processing speed (PS).

Results

The sample included 56 children with SCA (mean age 9.20 [SD 2.75], 46.43% girls) and 44 comparison children (mean age 9.41 [SD 2.49], 40.91% girls). Children with SCA performed worse on Est. IQ (84.58 vs. 96.10, P = 0.006) and PS (86.69 vs 96.91, P = 0.009) than comparison children. There was no significant difference in WM between both groups. Factors associated with lower Est. IQ and PS among children with SCA included age, maternal education, weight‐for‐age Z scores, and height‐for age Z scores.

Conclusion

In this small sample of children from Nigeria, we found worse cognitive functioning in children with SCA than in comparison children, and that sociodemographic and anthropomorphic factors were correlated with cognitive functioning.
Haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell transplantation with posttransplant cyclophosphamide in children and adolescents with hematological malignancies
Authors: González‐Llano Oscar , González‐López Elías Eugenio , Ramírez‐Cázares Ana Carolina , Marcos‐Ramírez Edson René , Ruiz‐Argüelles Guillermo José , Gómez‐Almaguer David
Published: July 2016

Background

Haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo‐HSCT) using posttransplant cyclophosphamide (Cy) for graft versus host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis has emerged as an alternative transplant strategy for patients without related donors, especially in the setting of limited resources in which T‐cell ex vivo depletion is not affordable. Experience with this transplant modality in children and adolescents is limited.

Procedure

We report a retrospective analysis of 25 consecutive outpatients under 21 years of age with high‐risk hematological malignancies, who received a haplo‐HSCT using posttransplant Cy as GVHD prophylaxis.

Results

Twenty‐three (92%) of the 25 patients engrafted, and 20 (95%) of 21 evaluable subjects achieved full donor chimerism by day +30. One‐year estimated overall survival and event‐free survival were 50% and 33%, respectively. The cumulative incidence rate of severe acute GVHD was 19%, and 15% of patients developed chronic GVHD.

Conclusions

Haplo‐HSCT with posttransplant Cy is a feasible therapeutic option for children and adolescents with high‐risk hematological malignancies in a limited resource setting.
Paediatric cancer survivors demonstrate a high rate of subclinical renal dysfunction
Authors: Mudi Abdullahi , Levy Cecil Steven , Geel Jennifer Ann , Poole Janet Elizabeth
Published: July 2016

Background

Clinical manifestations of renal dysfunction in childhood cancer survivors include hypertension, proteinuria, tubulopathy (and its biochemical consequences) and renal insufficiency. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with renal dysfunction in paediatric cancer survivors at a single centre in Johannesburg.

Procedure

A descriptive cross‐sectional study was performed on 130 cancer survivors between 2 and 18 years of age. Physical examination and screening urine dipstick were performed on all patients. Blood results of samples routinely drawn were analysed.

Results

After a median follow‐up period of 2 years, the various manifestations of renal dysfunction included decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), hypomagnesaemia, hypophosphataemia, proteinuria, haematuria and hypertension. In total, 34 survivors (26.15%) had at least one manifestation of renal dysfunction after completing treatment. The most prevalent manifestation of renal dysfunction was decreased eGFR (17.7%) followed by hypomagnesaemia (6.2%) and hypophosphataemia (4.6%). Patients with pre‐existing renal dysfunction were three times more likely to have renal dysfunction post‐treatment (P = 0.020). Ifosfamide (P = 0.010) and nephrectomy (P = 0.003) had independent significant impact on reduction in eGFR. High cumulative ifosfamide doses were identified as a possible cause for hypophosphataemia (P = 0.021).

Conclusion

While not clinically evident in the early follow‐up period, the high rate of renal dysfunction is concerning. We suggest that patients with pre‐existing renal dysfunction should be assessed by a nephrologist prior to initiation of cancer therapy, and nephro‐protective measures should be employed stringently in all children with cancer. Patients with decreased eGFR should be followed up closely in a multidisciplinary late effects clinic.
Factors associated with the latency to diagnosis of childhood cancer in Peru
Authors: Vasquez Liliana , Oscanoa Monica , Tello Mariela , Tapia Elena , Maza Ivan , Geronimo Jenny
Published: July 2016

Background

The latency to diagnosis is the time between the detection of a patient's first symptoms and the cancer diagnosis. The aim of this study was to identify the latency to the diagnosis of cancer in children in Peru and the clinical and sociodemographic factors associated with this latency.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with lymphoma and solid tumors between 2012 and 2014 at a social security referral hospital in Peru were retrospectively evaluated. Clinical and demographic variables were analyzed to assess their association with the latency to diagnosis.

Results

A total of 284 patients younger than 18 years of age were included in the study. The median time to diagnosis was 8.8 weeks, with a median patient interval of 2 weeks and diagnostic interval of 4.4 weeks. We found significant differences in the latency to diagnosis for different types of cancer (longer for Hodgkin lymphoma and shorter for Wilms tumor). Older children had significantly longer latencies to diagnosis (P = 0.048; OR: 1.05, 95% CI [1.0–1.1]), as did children who were first diagnosed by a general physician rather than by a pediatrician or surgeon (P = 0.028; OR: 2.1, 95% CI [1.1–4.2]). Parental age, level of education, marital status, metastatic disease, clinical stage, and gender did not significantly affect latency to diagnosis as analyzed by a multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

In Peru, median latency to diagnosis was comparable to that described in developing countries, where the index of suspicion for childhood cancer remains low. It is crucial to establish strategies to optimize early diagnoses using associated factors.
Effect of adding nanoalumina and marble dust powder on the physical, mechanical, and thermo‐mechanical characterization of dental composite
Authors: Meena Anoj , Mali Harlal Singh , Patnaik Amar , Kumar Shiv Ranjan
Published: July 2016

In this study, dental composites were fabricated by adding different weight percentages of nanoalumina (5–20 wt%) and marble dust powder (5–20 wt%) in the base monomer system comprised of Bisphenol‐A glycidyl methacrylate, Tri‐ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, Camphorquinone, and Dimethyl Amino Ethyl Methacrylate. Physical and mechanical characterizations such as void content test, Micro‐hardness test, Compressive strength, Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and thermo‐gravimetric analysis were performed to evaluate/compare the contribution of each of the nanoalumina and marble dust powder to the performance of dental composite. The result of experiment was indicated that by the addition of 5 wt% of nanoalumina increased the hardness and compressive strength by 88.46% and 23.25% whereas addition of 5 wt% of marble powder increased the hardness and compressive strength by 51.27% and 21.2%, respectively. DMA results revealed that addition of nanoalumina up to 20 wt% increased the storage modulus by 112.2%, whereas, the addition of marble powder up to 20 wt% increased the storage modulus by 191.2%. The thermal stability of dental composite was decreased with the addition of nanoalumina from 0 to 20 wt% and increased with the addition of marble dust powder from 0 to 20 wt%. Finally, it can be concluded that apart from economical aspect, marble dust powder filled dental composite also exhibited better thermo‐mechanical and thermal properties than that of nanoalumina filled dental composite. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E321–E331, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Physicochemical characterization of raw and modified banana pseudostem fibers and their adsorption capacities for heavy metal Pb2+and Cd2+in water
Authors: Sheng Zhanwu , Shen Yixiao , Dai Haofu , Pan Siyi , Ai Binling , Zheng Lili , Zheng Xiaoyan , Xu Zhimin
Published: July 2016

The banana pseudostem fiber was modified by steam explosion and cellulose xanthogenation methods to enhance the capacity of absorbing heavy metal ions Pb2+and Cd2+. The surface morphologies of the steam exploded (SEBF) and cellulose xanthogenate (SEBF‐CX) modified fibers were in loose form and had more surface area. The intensity of –CH, CO, CC, or COC group in SEBF or SEBF‐CX was lower due to hemicellulose and lignin were reduced after the modification, while the cellulose crystallinity and thermal stability were increased based on X‐ray diffraction and thermal analysis. SEBF had higher adsorption capacity at Pb2+concentration below 100 mg/L. However, SEBF‐CX exhibited higher capacity at high concentration of Pb2+. SEBF‐CX had higher adsorption capacity of removing Cd2+as well. The adsorption kinetic of SEBF‐CX was fit to the pseudo second‐order. In general, SEBF‐CX could be used as an economical and efficient absorbent for removing heavy metal ion pollutes in water. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1869–1877, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synergistic effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes and carbon black on rheological behaviors and electrical conductivity of hybrid polypropylene nanocomposites
Authors: Chen Yian , Yang Qi , Huang Yajiang , Liao Xia , Niu Yanhua
Published: July 2016

The monograph, electrical conductivity, and rheological behaviors of isotactic polypropylene /carbon black (CB)/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) composites were studied. Ternary composites including MWCNTs and CB revealed an electrical property similar to the binary MWCNTs composites. This work showed that a synergistic effect result in preserved electrical behavior with a simultaneous effective reduced of the MWCNTs amount. Moreover, the combination of conductive fillers also resulted in a decreased rheological percolation threshold, an accelerated formation of rheological network and a delay in the destruction of the filler network. The similar value of the activation energy for CB/MWCNTs and MWCNTs verified the existence of a co‐supporting networked formed by MWCNTs and CB. Two strain‐softening processes are found in a strain sweep for the ternary composite melt with high filler loading. The low‐strain‐softening process may be an indication that the MWCNTs filler network is broken into separated aggregated structures, while the high‐strain‐softening process should be related to the breakdown of the temporary network structure. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E723–E732, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of different amino functionalized carbon nanotubes on curing behavior and mechanical properties of carbon fiber/epoxy composites
Authors: Wu Jianqiao , Guo Jian , Zhang Qingjie , Gao Liang , Li Hao , Deng Huoying , Jiang Wenge , Sui Gang , Yang Xiaoping
Published: July 2016

Epoxy‐amine system is a type of important matrix material for preparation of carbon fiber composites. The amidation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has been widely developed for enhancing the mechanical properties of the epoxy resin matrix. However, the various amino‐functionalized CNTs will produce different effect in the same epoxy matrix due to the diversity in reactivity, compatibility, and dispersion stability. In this paper, the amino‐functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs‐NH2) were prepared through surface grafting ethylenediamine and diethyltoluenediamine (DETDA; designated as MWCNTs‐EDA and MWCNTs‐DETDA), and dispersed into epoxy resin matrix in which the DETDA was also used as curing agent. Compared with MWCNTs‐EDA, the MWCNTs‐DETDA showed a better dispersion state and stability in the epoxy resin, and had a relatively small impact on the curing behavior of epoxy matrix. After adding 0.5 wt% MWCNTs‐DETDA, the unidirectional T700 carbon fiber composites exhibited the significantly enhanced interlaminar shear strength and flexural properties due to the uniform dispersion of MWCNTs‐DETDA and the modified interface bonding. The results indicated that the chemical compatibility between MWCNTs‐NH2 and resin matrix can exert an important influence on the microstructure, curing behavior, thermo‐mechanical properties, and mechanical properties of the epoxy resin and the resulting carbon fiber composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E733–E744, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of hydrodynamic interaction on free volume changes and the mechanical properties of SGFR‐PBT composites
Authors: Munirathnamma L.M. , Ravikumar H.B.
Published: July 2016

In order to explore the effect of short glass fiber reinforcement (SGFR) on the mechanical properties of polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), 10–40 wt% of short glass fibers (SGF) are reinforced into PBT matrix. Microstructural characterization has been performed by positron lifetime technique. The fractional free volume obtained experimentally show negative deviation at 20, 30, and 40 wt% of SGF from the linear additivity relation. This indicates the improved adhesion between the short glass fiber and PBT matrix at 20, 30, and 40 wt% of SGF. The evaluated hydrodynamic interaction parameter (h) suggests the generation of excess friction at the interface of SGFR‐PBT composites. The positron lifetime parameters of SGFR‐PBT composites are correlated with the mechanical properties viz., tensile strength (TS), Young's modulus (YM), and elongation at break (EB). The decrease of crystallinity and average crystallite size of SGFR‐PBT composites evaluated by X‐ray diffraction results indicate the induced chemical interaction between PBT side chain and SGF due to the silane treatment of E‐glass fibers. The decreased positron lifetime parameters, reduced crystallinity, and crystallite size and improved mechanical properties are attributed to the improved chemical and physical interaction between the functional groups of SGF and PBT matrix. This is also evident from Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) studies. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1878–1886, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Reuse FRP waste as filler replacement for sisal fiber reinforced sheet molding compound
Authors: Huang Zhen , Ge Heyi , Zhao Yueying , Liu Fanggang , Yin Jiaojiao
Published: July 2016

Sisal fiber (SF) reinforced sheet molding compound (SMC) was prepared by compression molding technology. The fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) waste was added to replace calcium carbonate, which could be regarded as an effective solution of FRP waste. FRP loading of 20, 25, 30, and 35 wt% were incorporated to matrix and the mechanical, thermal stability, and water absorption of the SF‐SMC were investigated. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed that the silane coupling agent was successfully grafted on the surface of FRP waste. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the surface micro‐structure of SF and FRP waste. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to investigate the thermal stability of the FRP waste and SF‐SMC. Water absorption and water contact of the SF‐SMC were also tested. SF‐SMC fabricated with 30 wt% FRP waste powder possessed the best mechanical, thermal, and water absorption property due to the good interfacial adhesion between fibers and matrix. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:1896–1904, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Sunlight‐activated long persistent luminescent polyurethane incorporated with amino‐functionalized SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphor
Authors: Tian Saiqi , Wen Jiating , Fan Haojun , Chen Yi , Yan Jun , Zhang Peikun
Published: July 2016

An amino‐terminated long persistent luminescent phosphor (Amino‐SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+) was prepared based on inorganic SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ phosphor, chemically modified with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH550). Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectral, thermogravimetric and scanning electron microscopic measurements confirmed the successful synthesis of Amino‐SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+. Then this amino‐functionalized phosphor was introduced into polyurethane (PU) through urea linkages, and the effects of the chemical combination of Amino‐SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ and PU on the morphology, structure, storage stability, and mechanical, thermal and luminescent properties of the resultant long persistent luminescent polyurethane (LPLPU) were investigated. Compared with SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+/PU composites prepared by physical blending, the LPLPU shows better mechanical properties and storage stability due to the good compatibility of Amino‐SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+ with PU. More residues and higher initial decomposition temperature are observed because the interaction of the amino‐phosphor and PU delays the degradation. Study of the luminescent effect reveals that the LPLPU shows more than 10 h afterglow after cessation of the excitation light, and the brightness of green light in darkness is basically the same as that of LPLPU and SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+/PU. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Integrated QM/polarizable MM/continuum approaches to model chiroptical properties of strongly interacting solute–solvent systems
Authors: Cappelli Chiara
Published: July 2016

Solvent effects on chiroptical properties and spectroscopies can be huge, and affect not only the absolute value but the sign of molecular chiroptical responses. Therefore, the definition of reliable theoretical models and computational protocols to calculate chiroptical responses and assist the assignment of the chiral absolute configuration cannot overlook the effects of the surrounding environment. Continuum solvation methodologies are successful in case of weakly interacting solute–solvent couples, whereas in case of strongly interacting systems, such as those dominated by explicit hydrogen bonding interaction, a change of strategy is required to gain a reliable modeling. In this review, a recently developed integrated Quantum‐Mechanical/Polarizable molecular mechanics (MM)/polarizable continuum model (PCM) method is discussed, which combines a fluctuating charge approach to the MM polarization with the PCM. Its theoretical fundamentals, and issues related to the calculation of chiroptical responses are summarized, and the application to few representative test cases in aqueous solution is discussed.
Alterations in geometry, biomechanics, and mineral composition of juvenile rat femur induced by nonplanar PCB‐155 and/or planar PCB‐169
Authors: Brankovič Jana , Jovanovski Sašo , Jevnikar Peter , Hofmeister Alexander , Reininger‐Gutmann Birgit , Jan Janja , Grošelj Maja , Osredkar Joško , Uršič Matjaž , Fazarinc Gregor , Pogačnik Azra , Vrecl Milka
Published: July 2016

Exposure to widespread lipophilic and bioaccumulative polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) induces diverse biochemical and toxicological responses in various organs, including the bone. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in growth rate, geometry, serum, and bone biochemical parameters and biomechanics of juvenile rat femur induced by lactational exposure to nonplanar PCB‐155 and planar PCB‐169 individually and in combination. Fifteen lactating Wistar rats were divided into four groups (PCB‐169, PCB‐155, PCB‐155+169, and control), and PCBs were administered intraperitoneally at different time points after delivery. Femurs from 22‐day‐old offspring were analyzed by microCT, three‐point bending test and inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) to obtain data on bone geometry, biomechanics and mineral composition. The serum levels of calcium, phosphate and alkaline phosphatase were also determined. Lactational exposure to planar PCB‐169 resulted in shorter and thinner femurs, reduced endosteal and periosteal perimeters, smaller total cross‐sectional and medullary areas, and lowered serum bone marker levels and calcium levels in the bone, while femur mechanical properties were not significantly altered. The changes observed in the combination exposure (PCB‐155+169) group were similar to those observed in the PCB‐169 group but were less pronounced. In summary, our results demonstrate that alterations in lactationally exposed offspring were primarily induced by planar PCB‐169. The milder outcome in the combined group suggested that the PCB‐169‐mediated toxic effects on the bone might be reduced by a nonplanar PCB‐155 congener. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1135–1146, 2017.
The defocusing quintic NLS in four space dimensions
Authors: Dodson Benjamin , Miao Changxing , Murphy Jason , Zheng Jiqiang
Published: July 2016

We consider the defocusing quintic nonlinear Schrödinger equation in four space dimensions. We prove that any solution that remains bounded in the critical Sobolev space must be global and scatter. We employ a space-localized interaction Morawetz inequality, the proof of which requires us to overcome the logarithmic failure in the double Duhamel argument in four dimensions.
Long Non-Coding RNAs and Their Roles in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wei Ming-Ming , Zhou Guang-Biao
Published: July 2016

As a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, lung cancer is a collection of diseases with diverse etiologies which can be broadly classified into small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Lung cancer is characterized by genomic and epigenomic alterations; however, mechanisms underlying lung tumorigenesis remain to be elucidated. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of non-coding RNAs that consist of ⩾200 nucleotides but possess low or no protein-coding potential. Accumulating evidence indicates that abnormal expression of lncRNAs is associated with tumorigenesis of various cancers, including lung cancer, through multiple biological mechanisms involving epigenetic, transcriptional, and post-transcriptional alterations. In this review, we highlight the expression and roles of lncRNAs in NSCLC and discuss their potential clinical applications as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers, as well as therapeutic targets.
Intentional impaction of rectum by mattress sponge pieces (foreign bodies) leading to intestinal obstruction in a mentally ill patient: Case report and literature review
Authors: Alharbi Mohammad Bukhetan
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT

Background:

It is more difficult for the treating team to make the right diagnosis at the right time in mentally ill patients due to poor history and sometimes a masked clinical presentation. The presence of an unprofessional guardian may increase the challenges, as in our case, due to hidden or even misleading history, especially with an older age group. Intentionally inserted sponge material in the rectum to reduce the frequency of loose stool evacuations in patients with diarrhoea is a new phenomenon not discussed in medical literature.

Case summary:

We report a case of an 85-year-old bedridden female with a history of stroke, hemiplegia, and dysarthria. She presented to our emergency department with significant abdominal distention and vomiting. She was attended by an unprofessional guardian (hired by her family). The history provided by the guardian was of abdominal distention and constipation 5 days prior to presentation, followed by vomiting feculent material. A physical examination revealed she had a distended tympanic abdomen without organomegaly, scars, or hernia. A digital rectal exam revealed a few pieces of a foreign body similar to sponge material with a fully distended rectum with well-formed stool. The guardian admitted that this was a sponge material used by her to reduce the frequency of stool evacuation. Removal of the foreign body by the medical team led to complete recovery in the same day.

Conclusion:

The treating team may face more challenges in treating patients with an inability to provide a proper history, especially if accompanied by an unprofessional guardian.

Highlights
Development of citizen participation in Central and Eastern Europe after the EU enlargement and economic crises
Authors: Guasti Petra
Published: July 2016

The main focus of this article is the role of organized civil society in facilitating citizen engagement in Central and East European new EU member states after the EU accession and the recent economic crises. Using international comparative methodologies and data this article analyses democratic processes in the new member states focussing on the changes in strengths and weaknesses of citizen engagement. It shows the ways in which the post-enlargement process, especially the economic crisis affected the ability of CEE citizens — both directly, and via civil society organisations and trade unions — to be active participants of the multilevel governance processes. It finds that one of the key remaining gaps of the democratization process remains the relative weakness of state—citizens relationship. The impact of the economic crisis on the CEE countries was significant, in particular in regard to financial viability of organised civil society. However, economic crisis also acted as an important mobilization factor, and in all countries under study, civic participation, enabled by civil society and trade unions increased. New initiatives — in particular those tackling corruption and party campaign finance, saw NGOs focussing their advocacy efforts towards the government as well as actively mobilizing and engaging citizens. Across the CEE region, we are seeing gradual social learning, internalization of new norms and emergence of new identities — active citizens engaged with (and if necessary in opposition to) the state — directly (public mobilization and protests) and via organized civil society.
A New Tool to Better Forecast Volcanic Unrest
Authors: Hall Shannon
Published: July 2016

In a retrospective study of volcanic unrest at Indonesia's Kawah Ijen, a new model was able to pick up on the rising probability of eruption 2 months before authorities were aware of the risk.
Taxonomic Knowledge of Children With and Without Cochlear Implants
Authors: Lund Emily , Dinsmoor Jessica
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the taxonomic vocabulary knowledge and organization of children with cochlear implants to (a) children with normal hearing matched for age, and (b) children matched for vocabulary development.

Method

Ten children with cochlear implants, 10 age-matched children with normal hearing, and 10 vocabulary-matched children with normal hearing participated in this study. The children completed 2 experimental tasks: a forced-choice taxonomic sorting task, and a naming task requiring the children to use labels at multiple taxonomic levels.

Results

In the first task, the children in the cochlear implant group sorted pictures with accuracy consistent with the age-matched group. In the second task, the children with cochlear implants demonstrated delayed knowledge of superordinate relations as compared with the age-matched group, similar to the vocabulary-matched group. However, the children with cochlear implants did not demonstrate delayed knowledge of basic or subordinate relations.

Conclusion

The children with cochlear implants demonstrated a delay in use of superordinate taxonomic labels as compared with the children with normal hearing of the same age, which may lead to later difficulties with academic performance.
Patients’ Attitudes Toward Nonphysician Screening of Low Back and Low Back Related Leg Pain Complaints Referred for Surgical Assessment
Authors: Rempel Joshua , Busse Jason W. , Drew Brian , Reddy Kesava , Cenic Aleksa , Kachur Edward , Murty Naresh , Candelaria Henry , Moore Ainsley E. , Riva John J.
Published: July 2016

Study Design.

A questionnaire survey.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to explore patient attitudes toward screening to assess suitability for low back surgery by nonphysician health care providers.

Summary of Background Data.

Canadian spine surgeons have shown support for nonphysician screening to assess and triage patients with low back pain and low back related leg pain. However, patients’ attitudes toward this proposed model are largely unknown.

Methods.

We administered a 19-item cross-sectional survey to adults with low back and/or low back related leg pain who were referred for elective surgical assessment at one of five spine surgeons’ clinics in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The survey inquired about demographics, expectations regarding wait time for surgical consultation, as well as willingness to pay, travel, and be screened by nonphysician health care providers.

Results.

Eighty low back patients completed our survey, for a response rate of 86.0% (80 of 93). Most respondents (72.5%; 58 of 80) expected to be seen by a surgeon within 3 months of referral, and 88.8% (71 of 80) indicated willingness to undergo screening with a nonphysician health care provider to establish whether they were potentially a surgical candidate. Half of respondents (40 of 80) were willing to travel >50 km for assessment by a nonphysician health care provider, and 46.2% were willing to pay out-of-pocket (25.6% were unsure). However, most respondents (70.0%; 56 of 80) would still want to see a surgeon if they were ruled out as a surgical candidate, and written comments from respondents revealed concern regarding agreement between surgeons’ and nonphysicians’ determination of surgical candidates.

Conclusion.

Patients referred for surgical consultation for low back or low back related leg pain are largely willing to accept screening by nonphysician health care providers. Future research should explore the concordance of screening results between surgeon and nonphysician health care providers.

Level of Evidence: 3