bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of neointimal coverage between durable‐polymer everolimus‐eluting stents and bioresorbable‐polymer everolimus‐eluting stents 1 year after implantation using high‐resolution coronary angioscopy
Authors: Nojima Yuhei , Adachi Hidenori , Ihara Madoka , Kurimoto Tetsuya , Okayama Keita , Sakata Yasushi , Nanto Shinsuke
Published: February 2019

Objectives

We aimed to compare the coronary angioscopic appearance of neointimal coverage (NIC) over durable‐polymer everolimus‐eluting stents (XIENCE‐EES) and bioresorbable‐polymer everolimus‐eluting stents (SYNERGY‐EES) 1 year after implantation.

Background

XIENCE‐EES and SYNERGY‐EES have been developed to prevent delayed arterial healing associated with first generation drug‐eluting stents. However, the process of arterial healing after XIENCE‐EES and SYNERGY‐EES implantation has not been clarified.

Methods

Patients who underwent implantation of XIENCE‐EES (n = 20) or SYNERGY‐EES (n = 20) were enrolled in this study. Coronary angiography and coronary angioscopy were performed 12 ± 1 months after stent implantation. The NIC over the stent was classified into four grades: grade 0, stent struts fully exposed; grade 1, stent struts bulging into the lumen and, still visible; grade 2, stent struts embedded in neointima but still visible; and grade 3, stent struts fully embedded and invisible. Stents exhibiting more than one NIC grade was defined as heterogeneous. Moreover, presence of thrombi was investigated.

Results

The distribution of dominant NIC grade (XIENCE‐EES: grade 0, 0%; grade 1, 25%; grade 2, 50%; grade 3, 25%; SYNERGY‐EES: grade 0, 0%; grade 1, 5%; grade 2, 15%; grade 3, 80%; P = 0.002) and NIC heterogeneity was significantly different (P = 0.004). Thrombi were more frequent in XIENCE‐EES than in SYNERGY‐EES (40 versus 10%, respectively; P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Compared with XIENCE‐EES, SYNERGY‐EES were well covered by neointima and accompanied by fewer thrombi. These findings implied arterial healing of SYNERGY‐EES was better than that of XIENCE‐EES.
Successful use of the loop snare technique for crossing a degenerated surgical valve with the Evolut‐R system
Authors: Naganuma Toru , Kawamoto Hiroyoshi , Hirokazu Onishi , Nakamura Sunao
Published: February 2019

We first report the case highlighting a loop snare wire technique may be a useful percutaneous treatment option when faced with difficulty crossing the Evolut‐R system into a surgical valve due to interference between the two prostheses, especially in cases with a very horizontal aorta.
Percutaneous treatment of saphenous vein graft aneurysm: Contemporary procedural considerations
Authors: Khan Arshad , Brienesse Stephen , Boyle Andrew , Collins Nicholas
Published: February 2019

While coronary artery bypass grafting remains an essential component of revascularization therapy, the use of venous conduits in the form of saphenous vein grafts is associated with a number of late sequelae, including graft stenosis and occlusion. The recognition of saphenous vein graft aneurysm, typically a late complication, may be associated with adverse outcomes. We describe the percutaneous therapy of saphenous vein graft aneurysm, utilizing contemporary devices, including newer generation covered stents, and the use of devices more commonly used in peripheral vascular intervention, reflecting the dilated nature of vein grafts. Saphenous vein graft aneurysm can be successfully treated with percutaneous therapy, avoiding the risk of repeat sternotomy and associated morbidity. The use of new generation covered stents has not been previously well reported; however, it may have an important role in the treatment of coronary artery and saphenous vein graft aneurysm. Awareness of the role of covered stents used in both coronary and peripheral intervention and the advantages of new generation devices are essential to allow optimal therapy of this uncommon, late complication. The role and potential benefits of new generation covered stents are discussed with a review of the existing literature.
CuPd Alloy Oxide Nanobelts as Electrocatalyst Towards Hydrazine Oxidation
Authors: Zhang Xin‐Ying , Shi Shuai , Yin Hui‐Ming
Published: February 2019

Among non‐precious metal catalysts for the hydrazine oxidation reaction, Cu‐based catalysts have exhibited relatively high performance ascribed to their lower onset potential and better stability. However, the catalytic properties, including activity and durability, still need further improvement in contrast to noble metal catalysts such as Pt and Pd. In this study, Pd was used as the promotor between Cu and Pd towards the hydrazine oxidation reaction. The CuPd alloy oxide ((Cu0.9Pd0.1)O) nanobelts were fabricated by using a dealloying method. The electrochemical measurements show that (Cu0.9Pd0.1)O nanobelts exhibit 1.5 times higher current density, and better stability than CuO towards the hydrazine electro‐oxidation reaction. These improvements are further evidenced in the direct hydrazine‐hydrogen peroxide fuel cell by using these two catalysts as the anodes in comparison. A single fuel cell using (Cu0.9Pd0.1)O as the anode exhibits a peak power density of 330 mW cm−2, about 100 mW cm−2 higher than that of pure CuO. N2 sorption experiments and product analysis demonstrate that alloying with Pd not only could enlarge the surface area of (Cu0.9Pd0.1)O but also could suppress the self‐decomposition of hydrazine. These improvements will consequently increase the catalytic activity and fuel efficiency of (Cu0.9Pd0.1)O.
Seasonal comparison of the neuromuscular junction morphology of Bufo marinus
Authors: Ge Dengyun , Noakes Peter G. , Lavidis Nickolas A.
Published: February 2019

At mammalian neuromuscular junctions (NMJs), prolonged inactivity leads to muscle denervation and atrophy. By contrast, amphibian NMJs do not show such degeneration even though they can remain in a state of drought‐imposed dormancy (hibernation) for many years. We have previously reported that during the dry season, toad (Bufo marinus) NMJs display decreased sensitivity to extracellular calcium‐dependent neurotransmitter release, which leads to minimal neuromuscular transmission. In the present study, we examined and compared NMJ morphology of toads obtained from the wild during the wet season (February–March) when these toads are active, to toads obtained from dry season (October–November) when toads are inactive. Iliofibularis muscles were isolated and prepared for immunostaining with anti‐SV2, a monoclonal antibody that labels synaptic vesicle glycoprotein SV2. The corresponding postsynaptic acetylcholine receptors were stained using Alexa Fluro‐555 conjugated α‐bungarotoxin. Confocal microscopy and three‐dimensional reconstructions were then used to examine the pre‐and postsynaptic morphology of toads NMJs from the dry (inactive) and wet (active) seasons. Total axon branch number, the percentage of axon branches with discontinuous distributions of synaptic vesicles, and further the Pearson value of colocalization of pre and postsynaptic elements in each NMJs from both the dry and wet season were compared. While our previous studies on dry toads revealed a significant reduction in evoked neurotransmission, our present findings show that the structure of the NMJs suffered limited level of remodeling, suggesting a mechanism utilized by NMJs in dry season toads to support quick recover from their dormant state after the heavy rain in wet season.
In‐Situ/Operando X‐ray Characterization of Metal Hydrides
Authors: Liu Yi‐Sheng , Jeong Sohee , White James L. , Feng Xuefei , Seon Cho Eun , Stavila Vitalie , Allendorf Mark D. , Urban Jeffrey J. , Guo Jinghua
Published: February 2019

In this article, the capabilities of soft and hard X‐ray techniques, including X‐ray absorption (XAS), soft X‐ray emission spectroscopy (XES), resonant inelastic soft X‐ray scattering (RIXS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and their application to solid‐state hydrogen storage materials are presented. These characterization tools are indispensable for interrogating hydrogen storage materials at the relevant length scales of fundamental interest, which range from the micron scale to nanometer dimensions. Since nanostructuring is now well established as an avenue to improve the thermodynamics and kinetics of hydrogen release and uptake, due to properties such as reduced mean free paths of transport and increased surface‐to‐volume ratio, it becomes of critical importance to explicitly identify structure‐property relationships on the nanometer scale. X‐ray diffraction and spectroscopy are effective tools for probing size‐, shape‐, and structure‐dependent material properties at the nanoscale. This article also discusses the recent development of in‐situ soft X‐ray spectroscopy cells, which enable investigation of critical solid/liquid or solid/gas interfaces under more practical conditions. These unique tools are providing a window into the thermodynamics and kinetics of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions and informing a quantitative understanding of the fundamental energetics of hydrogen storage processes at the microscopic level. In particular, in‐situ soft X‐ray spectroscopies can be utilized to probe the formation of intermediate species, byproducts, as well as the changes in morphology and effect of additives, which all can greatly affect the hydrogen storage capacity, kinetics, thermodynamics, and reversibility. A few examples using soft X‐ray spectroscopies to study these materials are discussed to demonstrate how these powerful characterization tools could be helpful to further understand the hydrogen storage systems.
Energy Transfer from Ce3+ to Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+ in Ca9Ga(PO4)7 Phosphors: Synthesis, Structure and Tunable Multicolor Luminescent Properties
Authors: Kang Xiaojiao , Lü Wei , Wang Hongcheng , Ling Dongxiong
Published: February 2019

A series of Ca9Ga(PO4)7:Ce3+/Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+ phosphors with tunable color, in which Ce3+ acts as the sensitizer, was synthesized. Energy transfer (ET) from Ce3+ to Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+ was investigated in detail. Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+ single‐doped Ca9Ga(PO4)7 can exhibit green, yellow, and red emission, respectively. Incorporating Ce3+ into a Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+ single‐doped Ca9Ga(PO4)7 phosphor can remarkably promote the luminous efficiency of the Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+ ions. This enhancement originates from an efficient ET from Ce3+ to Tb3+/Dy3+/Mn2+. The ET was validated by luminescence spectra, decay dynamics, and schematic energy levels. Moreover, the intensity ratio of red emission of Mn2+ to violet emission of Ce3+ was analyzed based on energy‐transfer and lifetime measurements. In Ce3+‐Tb3+, Ce3+‐Dy3+, and Ce3+‐Mn2+ doped Ca9Ga(PO4)7, the emitting color changed from violet to green, yellow, and red, respectively, which indicates the potential use of this new tunable phosphor in UV light‐emitting diodes.
Effects of forestry‐driven changes to groundcover and soil moisture on amphibian desiccation, dispersal, and survival
Authors: Haggerty Christopher J. E. , Crisman Thomas L. , Rohr Jason R.
Published: February 2019

Over 80% of amphibian species that are declining are forest dependent. Forestry practices are a major cause of forest alterations globally, and it is well documented that clearcutting can contribute to amphibian declines. However, there might be adverse effects of forestry practices other than clearcutting. For example, planting overstory trees in rows (plantations) can change groundcover microhabitats and soil moisture levels, but the effects of this common practice on amphibian populations are not well studied. We compared the impacts of common intensive pine plantation operations to naturally regenerated pine forests on the desiccation, movement rates, behavior, and survival of >900 juvenile southern toads (Anaxyrus terrestris). Pine plantations had significantly more accumulation of conifer needles and less exposed soil, herbaceous groundcover, broadleaf litter, and soil moisture than natural pine forests despite the greater canopy cover at plantations. Litter cover explained 85% of groundcover microhabitat variance among forest types and predicted minimum soil moisture levels. When toads were held in small outdoor enclosures that constrained microhabitat selection, 24‐h desiccation rates and 72‐h mortality were significantly greater in pine plantation than in naturally regenerated pine forest because of lower soil moisture, especially during low rainfall periods. In large outdoor pens where juvenile amphibians could select microhabitats, movement was strongly directed down slope and increased with precipitation. However, initial speeds were positively associated with pine density, likely because toads were trying to evacuate from the drier high‐pine‐density areas. High‐intensity silviculture practices that eliminate herbaceous or vegetative groundcover, such as roller chopping and scalping, increase amphibian desiccation because planted conifers dry the upper soil layer. Our study highlights the importance of prioritizing lower intensity silviculture practices or lower pine densities to retain groundcover microhabitat that serves as amphibian refugia from dry conditions that are predicted to increase in frequency with climate change.
Parsimonious test of dynamic interaction
Authors: Chisholm Sarah , Stein Andrew B. , Jordan Neil R. , Hubel Tatjana M. , Shawe‐Taylor John , Fearn Tom , McNutt J. Weldon , Wilson Alan M. , Hailes Stephen
Published: February 2019

In recent years, there have been significant advances in the technology used to collect data on the movement and activity patterns of humans and animals. GPS units, which form the primary source of location data, have become cheaper, more accurate, lighter and less power‐hungry, and their accuracy has been further improved with the addition of inertial measurement units. The consequence is a glut of geospatial time series data, recorded at rates that range from one position fix every several hours (to maximize system lifetime) to ten fixes per second (in high dynamic situations). Since data of this quality and volume have only recently become available, the analytical methods to extract behavioral information from raw position data are at an early stage of development. An instance of this lies in the analysis of animal movement patterns. When investigating solitary animals, the timing and location of instances of avoidance and association are important behavioral markers. In this paper, a novel analytical method to detect avoidance and association between individuals is proposed; unlike existing methods, assumptions about the shape of the territories or the nature of individual movement are not needed. Simulations demonstrate that false positives (type I error) are rare (1%–3%), which means that the test rarely suggests that there is an association if there is none.
Identifying refugia and corridors under climate change conditions for the Sichuan snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) in Hubei Province, China
Authors: Zhang Yu , Clauzel Céline , Li Jia , Xue Yadong , Zhang Yuguang , Wu Gongsheng , Giraudoux Patrick , Li Li , Li Diqiang
Published: February 2019

Using a case study of an isolated management unit of Sichuan snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana), we assess the extent that climate change will impact the species’ habitat distribution in the current period and projected into the 2050s. We identify refugia that could maintain the population under climate change and determine dispersal paths for movement of the population to future suitable habitats. Hubei Province, China. We identified climate refugia and potential movements by integrating bioclimatic models with circuit theory and least‐cost model for the current period (1960–1990) and the 2050s (2041–2060). We coupled a maximum entropy algorithm to predict suitable habitat for the current and projected future periods. Suitable habitat areas that were identified during both time periods and that also satisfied home range and dispersal distance conditions were delineated as refugia. We mapped potential movements measured as current flow and linked current and future habitats using least‐cost corridors. Our results indicate up to 1,119 km2 of currently suitable habitat within the study range. Based on our projections, a habitat loss of 67.2% due to climate change may occur by the 2050s, resulting in a reduced suitable habitat area of 406 km2 and very little new habitat. The refugia areas amounted to 286 km2 and were located in Shennongjia National Park and Badong Natural Reserve. Several connecting corridors between the current and future habitats, which are important for potential movements, were identified. Our assessment of the species predicted a trajectory of habitat loss following anticipated future climate change. We believe conservation efforts should focus on refugia and corridors when planning for future species management. This study will assist conservationists in determining high‐priority regions for effective maintenance of the endangered population under climate change and will encourage increased habitat connectivity.
Three decades of degradation lead to diminished impacts of severe hurricanes on Caribbean reefs
Authors: Edmunds Peter J.
Published: February 2019

Major tropical storms are destructive phenomena with large effects on the community dynamics of multiple biomes. On coral reefs, their impacts have been described for decades, leading to the expectation that future storms should have effects similar to those recorded in the past. This expectation relies on the assumption that storm intensities will remain unchanged, and the impacted coral reef communities are similar to those of the recent past; neither assumption is correct. This study quantified the effects of two category five hurricanes on the reefs of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, where 31 yr of time‐series analyses reveal chronic coral mortality, increasing macroalgal abundance, and five major hurricanes that caused acute coral mortality. Contextualized by these trends, the effects of the most recent storms, Hurricanes Irma and Maria (September 2017), on coral cover were modest. While mean absolute coral cover declined 1–4% depending on site, these effects were not statistically discernable. Following decades of increasing abundance of macroalgae, this functional group responded to the recent hurricanes with large increases in abundance on both absolute and relative scales. Decades of chronic mortality have changed the coral assemblages of St. John to create degraded communities that are resistant to severe storms.
Unusual Reactivity of cyclo‐(P5Ph5): Oxidative Addition at a Group 6 Metal Carbonyl and Insertion of Acetonitrile into a P–P Bond
Authors: Yufanyi Divine Mbom , Grell Toni , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: February 2019

The reaction of [M(CO)4Lx] {M = Cr, W, L = MeCN, x = 2; M = Mo, L = 2,5‐norbornadiene (nbd), x = 1} with cyclo‐(P5Ph5) led to an unusual transformation reaction including the oxidative addition of a P–P bond to the Group 6 metal carbonyl, the insertion of MeCN into a P–P bond, and the formation of an M–M bond. The products were characterized by IR and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy, ESI mass spectrometry and single crystal X‐ray crystallography. The complexes contain a metal–metal unit bridged by two terminal phosphanido groups of the novel ligand, (PPh‐PPh‐PPh‐PPh‐CMe=N‐PPh)2–. The 31P{1H} NMR spectrum shows an ABCDE spin system consistent with the molecular structure observed in the solid state. Furthermore, the thermal properties of the complexes were evaluated.
Examining adjuvant radiation dose in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Avkshtol Vladimir , Handorf Elizabeth A. , Ridge John A. , Leachman Brooke K. , Liu Jeffrey C. , Bauman Jessica , Galloway Thomas J.
Published: February 2019

Background

Compare adjuvant radiation dose trends and outcomes in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

Nonmetastatic HNSCCs treated between 2004 and 2014 with primary site surgery, lymph node dissection, and adjuvant radiation were identified in the National Cancer Database. Standard dose radiation (SD‐RT) was defined as an equivalent dose in 2 Gy (EQD2) ≥56.64 and ≤60 Gy and high‐dose radiation (HD‐RT) as an EQD2 >60 and <70 Gy.

Results

HD‐RT was given to 46% of the 15 836 HNSCC patients managed with adjuvant radiation. When adjusted for poor prognostic factors, HD‐RT was associated with increased mortality (HR1.09; 95%CI 1.02‐1.16). In nonoropharynx or human papillomavirus‐negative oropharynx primary that had positive margins, ≥5 positive lymph nodes, and/or extranodal extension, HD‐RT was still not associated with improved survival (HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.91‐1.12).

Conclusions

There was no survival benefit from postoperative dose escalation above EQD2 60 Gy even in a high‐risk cohort.
Exercise prescription and tailored physical activity intervention in onco‐hematology inpatients, a personalized bedside approach to improve clinical best practice
Authors: Duregon Federica , Gobbo Stefano , Bullo Valentina , Roma Enrico , Vendramin Barbara , Bergamo Manuele , Bocalini Danilo Sales , Di Blasio Andrea , Cugusi Lucia , Neunhaeuserer Daniel , Bergamin Marco , Ermolao Andrea
Published: February 2019

Therapy of hematological malignancies lasts for long periods implicating various complications. The chemotherapy induces fatigue and forces bed rest. These features strongly contribute to a general impairment of the physical efficiency. Oppositely, an increase of physical exercise can prevent or reduce this weakening. Few trials examined the efficacy of an exercise in onco‐hematological inpatients, during their hospitalization. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the feasibility of an inter‐hospital intervention and the beneficial role of a tailored exercise program in the maintenance of the physical function in onco‐hematological inpatients. The study included 42 patients, which were allocated in two groups. In the intervention group (IG) a tailored exercise protocol during patient's hospitalization was administered. Exercise protocol was focused on development of strength, balance control, and flexibility; sessions were directly performed in the patient's hospital room everyday for 15 to 30 minutes. Exercise was supervised by an exercise specialist and driven by a multimedia support. Control group (CG) remained physically inactive for all period of hospitalization. To examine the interaction between the two situations (T0 and T1) and the two groups (IG and CG) for all dependent variables, a 2 × 2 within–subjects contrasts model analysis of variance was applied. Within groups analysis displayed significant differences in grip and leg strength and in static balance control (P < 0.05) with medium to very large effect size. Results from this investigation showed that a tailored exercise protocol administered to hospitalized onco‐hematological patients was feasible and efficient to promote the maintenance of their physical function, improving clinical best practice including exercise to the traditional treatment. Moreover, the magnitude of the difference between the IG and the CG underlined the importance to invite and stimulate patients to workout to preserve the physical function, counteracting side effects of chemotherapy treatments with a concurrent reduction in bed rest syndrome.
Cancer incidence and mortality among firefighters
Authors: Jalilian Hamed , Ziaei Mansour , Weiderpass Elisabete , Rueegg Corina Silvia , Khosravi Yahya , Kjaerheim Kristina
Published: February 2019

Firefighters are exposed to both known and suspected carcinogens. This study aims to systematically review the literature on the association of firefighting occupation and cancer incidence and mortality, overall and for specific cancer sites. A systematic review using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was performed up to January 1, 2018. We extracted risk estimates of cancers and calculated summary incidence risk estimates (SIRE), summary mortality risk estimates (SMRE), and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Publication bias and risk of bias in individual studies were assessed using Begg's and Egger's tests and the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale (NOS), respectively. We included 50 papers in the review and 48 in the meta‐analysis. We found significantly elevated SIREs for cancer of the colon (1.14; CI 1.06 to 1.21), rectum (1.09; CI 1.00 to 1.20), prostate (1.15; CI 1.05 to 1.27), testis (1.34; CI 1.08 to 1.68), bladder (1.12; CI 1.04 to 1.21), thyroid (1.22; CI 1.01 to 1.48), pleura (1.60; CI 1.09 to 2.34), and for malignant melanoma (1.21; CI 1.02 to 1.45). We found significant SMREs of 1.36 (1.18 to 1.57) and 1.42 (1.05 to 1.90) for rectal cancer and Non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma, respectively. Considering the significantly elevated risk of some cancers in this occupational group, we suggest improving preventive measures and securing adequate and relevant medical attention for this group. Further studies with more accurate and in‐depth exposure assessments are indicated.
Targeting the TLK1/NEK1 DDR axis with Thioridazine suppresses outgrowth of androgen independent prostate tumors
Authors: Singh Vibha , Jaiswal Praveen Kumar , Ghosh Ishita , Koul Hari K. , Yu Xiuping , De Benedetti Arrigo
Published: February 2019

Standard therapy for advanced Prostate Cancer (PCa) consists of antiandrogens, which provide respite from disease progression, but ultimately fail resulting in the incurable phase of the disease: mCRPC. Targeting PCa cells before their progression to mCRPC would greatly improve the outcome. Combination therapy targeting the DNA Damage Response (DDR) has been limited by general toxicity, and a goal of clinical trials is how to target the DDR more specifically. We now show that androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) of LNCaP cells results in increased expression of TLK1B, a key kinase upstream of NEK1 and ATR and mediating the DDR that typically results in a temporary cell cycle arrest of androgen responsive PCa cells. Following DNA damage, addition of the TLK specific inhibitor, thioridazine (THD), impairs ATR and Chk1 activation, establishing the existence of a ADT > TLK1 > NEK1 > ATR > Chk1, DDR pathway, while its abrogation leads to apoptosis. Treatment with THD suppressed the outgrowth of androgen‐independent (AI) colonies of LNCaP and TRAMP‐C2 cells cultured with bicalutamide. Moreover, THD significantly inhibited the growth of several PCa cells in vitro (including AI lines). Administration of THD or bicalutamide was not effective at inhibiting long‐term tumor growth of LNCaP xenografts. In contrast, combination therapy remarkably inhibited tumor growth via bypass of the DDR. Moreover, xenografts of LNCaP cells overexpressing a NEK1‐T141A mutant were durably suppressed with bicalutamide. Collectively, these results suggest that targeting the TLK1/NEK1 axis might be a novel therapy for PCa in combination with standard of care (ADT).
Residential ambient benzene exposure in the United States and subsequent risk of hematologic malignancies
Authors: Teras Lauren R. , Diver W. Ryan , Deubler Emily L. , Krewski Daniel , Flowers Christopher R. , Switchenko Jeffrey M. , Gapstur Susan M.
Published: February 2019

Benzene is considered a carcinogen, mostly based on evidence of causality for myeloid leukemia from high levels of exposure in occupational studies. We used United States Environmental Protection Agency National Ambient Toxics Assessment (NATA) estimates of low‐level ambient benzene to examine potential associations for the general public between benzene exposure and risk of hematologic cancers. Exposure was estimated by linking participants’ residential address to the NATA benzene estimates for that census tract. Among 115,996 American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study‐II Nutrition cohort participants (52,554 men, 63,442 women), 2,595 were diagnosed with incident hematologic cancer between 1997 and 2013. Extended Cox regression modeling was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Among all participants, ambient benzene was positively associated with myelodysplastic syndromes (HR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.01–1.33 per μg/m3) and T‐cell lymphoma (HR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.08–1.53 per μg/m3). Among men, ambient benzene was also positively associated with any hematologic malignancy (HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.01–1.15 per μg/m3) and follicular lymphoma (HR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.09–1.50 per μg/m3). No significant associations were observed for women only, but associations were suggestive for MDS and T‐cell lymphoma. It is possible that the NATA ambient benzene estimates are a better proxy for benzene exposure for men than women in this cohort. The results of this study support an association between ambient benzene and risk of hematologic malignancies, particularly MDS, T‐cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma. More research in large scale or pooled studies is needed to further explore these associations.
Need for registration and classification of uterine compression sutures
Authors: Matsubara Shigeki , Takahashi Hironori , Yano Hitoshi
Published: February 2019

More than 30 uterine compression sutures have been reported; a classification system is urgently needed.
The effect of nacre extract on cord blood‐derived endothelial progenitor cells: A natural stimulus to promote angiogenesis?
Authors: Willemin Anne‐Sophie , Zhang Ganggang , Velot Emilie , Bianchi Arnaud , Decot Veronique , Rousseau Marthe , Gillet Pierre , Moby Vanessa
Published: February 2019

Angiogenesis is a critical parameter to consider for the development of tissue‐engineered bone substitutes. The challenge is to promote sufficient vascularization in the bone substitute to prevent cell death and to allow its efficient integration. The capacity of nacre extract to restore the osteogenic activity of osteoarthritis osteoblasts has already been demonstrated. However, their angiogenic potential on endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) was not yet explored. Therefore, the current study aimed at investigating if nacreous molecules affect EPC behavior. The gene and protein expression levels of endothelial cell (EC)‐specific markers were determined in EPCs cultivated in presence of a nacre extract (ethanol soluble matrix [ESM] at two concentrations: 100 μg/mL and 200 μg/mL (respectively abbreviated ESM100 and ESM200)). Cell functionality was explored by proangiogenic factors production and in vitro tube formation assay. ESM200 increased the expression of some EC‐specific genes. The in vitro tube formation assay demonstrated that ESM200 stimulated tubulogenesis affecting angiogenic parameters. We demonstrated that a stimulation with 200 μg/mL of ESM increased angiogenesis key elements. This in vitro study strongly highlights the proangiogenic effect of ESM. Due to its osteogenic properties, previously demonstrated, ESM could constitute the key element to develop an ideal prevascularized bone substitute. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2019.
Sustained release of N‐acetylcysteine by sandwich structured polycaprolactone/collagen scaffolds for wound healing
Authors: Hou Jinfei , Chen Lifeng , Liu Zhirong , Li Jialun , Yang Jie , Zhong Aimei , Zhou Muran , Sun Yang , Guo Liang , Yang Yanqing , Sun Jiaming , Wang Zhenxing
Published: February 2019

PCL (poly‐caprolactone) nanofibers have good biocompatibility and high porosity, which are usually utilized for application in wound dressings. However, wound healing could be hindered by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and different factors. Pure nanofibers cannot satisfy these requirements of wound healing. N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), as an antioxidant, meets the requirements for wound healing by resisting the overproduction of ROS and by promoting angiogenesis and maturation of the epidermis. In this study, we prepared a sandwich structured PCL‐Col/NAC scaffold using the molding method, which consisted of PCL nanofibers at the core and NAC‐loaded collagen on both sides. The hydroscopicity and tensile modulus of PCL‐Col/NAC scaffolds showed best performance of these properties among groups. Meanwhile, the drug release profiles of PCL‐Col/NAC scaffolds were investigated using the HPLC method and the results suggested a sustained drug release of NAC for PCL‐Col/NAC scaffolds. In addition, PCL‐Col/NAC scaffolds presented better properties than the control groups in cell migration and proliferation. The in vivo wound healing therapy effect was studied using an oval (2 × 1 cm) full‐thickness skin defect wound model for SD rats. After 21 days, gross view and histological analysis showed a favorable beneficial therapeutic effect as well as better epidermal maturation compared with the control groups. CD31 immunohistology results revealed relatively more new vessels in the PCL‐Col/NAC group than the control groups. This study developed novel PCL‐Col/NAC scaffolds with an excellent hydroscopicity, tensile modulus and the ability to promote epidermal maturation and angiogenesis, demonstrating its promising potential in wound healing treatment. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2019.
Prevalence of pks gene cluster and characteristics of Klebsiella pneumoniae‐induced bloodstream infections
Authors: Lan You , Zhou Mao , Jian Zijuan , Yan Qun , Wang Siyi , Liu Wenen
Published: February 2019

Background

The emerging pks‐positive (pks+) strains have aroused great public concern recently. Colibactin, encoded by pks gene cluster, has been reported to be involved in DNA damage and increased virulence. Little is known about its prevalence among Klebsiella pneumoniae‐induced bloodstream infections (BSIs). Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of pks gene cluster, and molecular and clinical characteristics of K pneumoniae‐induced BSIs.

Methods

A total of 190 non‐duplicate K pneumoniae bloodstream isolates were collected at a university hospital in China from March 2016 to March 2018. Molecular characteristics including capsular types, virulence, and pks genes were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Clinical characteristics and antimicrobial susceptibility were also investigated.

Results

Overall, 21.6% (41/190) of K pneumoniae bloodstream isolates were hypervirulent K pneumoniae(hvKP). The prevalence of pks gene cluster was 26.8% (51/190). The positive rates of K1, K57, and genes associated with hypervirulence, that is, rmpA, wcaG, mrkD, allS, ybtS, kfu,and iucA, were significantly higher in the pks+isolates than the pks‐negative (pks−) isolates (P < 0.05), while the pks+ isolates were significantly less resistant to 11 antimicrobial agents than the pks− isolates. Multivariate analysis showed diabetes mellitus, and K1 and K20 capsular types as independent risk factors for pks+ K pneumoniaebloodstream infections.

Conclusions

The pks+ K pneumoniae was prevalent in individuals with bloodstream infections in mainland China. The high rates of hypervirulent determinants among pks+ K pneumoniaerevealed the potential pathogenicity of this emerging gene cluster. Diabetes mellitus, and K1 and K20 capsular types were identified as independent risk factors associated with pks+ K pneumoniaebloodstream infections. This study highlights the significance of clinical awareness and epidemic surveillance of pks+strains.
Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio can specifically predict the severity of hypertriglyceridemia‐induced acute pancreatitis compared with white blood cell
Authors: Huang Li , Chen Congying , Yang Lijuan , Wan Rong , Hu Guoyong
Published: February 2019

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the values of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and white blood cell (WBC) in predicting severity of acute pancreatitis (AP) with different etiologies.

Methods

We compared NLR and WBC levels in patients with different etiologies and AP severity. The optimal cutoff value for them to predict severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

Both NLR and WBC were elevated in patients with SAP. After subgrouping AP by etiology, NLR was predictive of SAP only in hypertriglyceridemia‐induced AP (HTG‐AP), while WBC could effectively predict severity in both gallstone and HTG‐AP. The best cutoff value of WBC for predicting SAP in gallstone AP patients was 12.81 × 109/L, with sensitivity and specificity of 78.9% and 70.2%. The best cutoff value for NLR and WBC to differentiate HTG‐SAP was more than 5.88 and 15.89 × 109/L, respectively, with sensitivity and specificity of 87% and 50% for NLR and 56.5% and 75.76% for WBC.

Conclusions

Our study firstly demonstrated that NLR selectively played a role in HTG‐AP, while WBC could predict the severity of both gallstone and HTG‐AP. Furthermore, we firstly elucidated that NLR was more sensitive and accurate in judging the severity of HTG‐AP compared with WBC.
FLT3, a prognostic biomarker for acute myeloid leukemia (AML): Quantitative monitoring with a simple anti‐FLT3 interaction and flow cytometric method
Authors: Ampasavate Chadarat , Jutapakdee Wasimon , Phongpradist Rungsinee , Tima Singkome , Tantiworawit Adisak , Charoenkwan Pimlak , Chinwong Dujrudee , Anuchapreeda Songyot
Published: February 2019

Background

Overexpression of fms‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) protein in leukemia is highly related to poor prognosis and reduced survival rate in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. Simple but efficient quantification of FLT3 protein levels on the leukemic cell surface using flow cytometry had been developed for rapid determination of FLT3 on intact cell surface.

Methods

Quantitation protocol for FLT3 biomarker in clinical samples was developed and validated. Cell model selection for calibration curve construction was identified and evaluated. Selected antibody concentrations, cell density, and incubation time were evaluated for most appropriate conditions. Comparison of the developed FLT3 determination protocol with the conventional Western blot analysis was performed.

Results

EoL‐1 cell line was selected for using as positive control cells. Calibration curve (20%‐120% of FLT3 positive cells) and quality control (QC) levels were constructed and evaluated. The results demonstrated good linearity (r2 > 0.99). The intra‐ and inter‐day precision and accuracy, expressed as the coefficient of variation (%CV) and % recovery, were <20% and fell in 80%‐120% in all cases. When compared with Western blotting results, FLT3 protein expression levels in leukemia patient's bone marrow samples were demonstrated in the same trend.

Conclusions

The effective, reliable, rapid, and economical analytical technique using the developed flow cytometric method was demonstrated for FLT3 protein determination on leukemic cell surface. This method provided a practical analysis of FLT‐3 biomarker levels which is valuable for physician decision in acute leukemia treatment.
The Essentialized Self: Implications for Motivation and Self‐Regulation
Authors: Oyserman Daphna
Published: February 2019

Persuasion attempts are more likely to stick and less likely to be counterargued if they fit the ways people naturally make sense of themselves and their world. One way to do that is to yoke persuasion to the social categories people experience as “true” and “natural.” Gelman and Echelbarger's (2019) integrative review of essentialism outlines the emergence of essentialism in children's reasoning. Connecting their discussion with identity‐based motivation theory (D. Oyserman, 2015) and a culture‐as‐situated cognition (D. Oyserman, 2017) perspective, this commentary addresses how an essentialized self can facilitate or impair motivation and self‐regulation and potentiate or undermine persuasive efforts.
Children's Understanding of the Instrumental Value of Products and Brands
Authors: John Deborah Roedder , Chaplin Lan Nguyen
Published: February 2019

Gelman and Echelbarger (2019—this issue) provide a valuable discussion about children's understanding of the inferred or nonobvious features of objects, which has implications for how children value products. We further this conversation by examining how children value products and brands as a means for meeting important goals, which we refer to as instrumental valuation. Specifically, we examine developmental trends in instrumental valuation for three goals—self‐concept development, self‐presentation, and happiness. Across these areas, we find that children place greater value on products and brands for meeting these goals as they grow older, particularly during late childhood and early adolescence. We conclude with a discussion of how age differences in instrumental valuation add to the general conversation about how children of different ages value objects.
Precision treatment in colorectal cancer: Now and the future
Authors: Yau Tung On
Published: February 2019

Until recently, a one‐drug‐fits‐all model was applied to every patient diagnosed with the same condition. But not every condition is the same, and this has led to many cases of ineffective treatment. Pharmacogenetics is increasingly used to stratify patients for precision medicine treatments, for instance, the UGT1A1*28 polymorphism as a dosage indicator for the use of irinotecan as well as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) immunohistochemistry and KRAS Proto‐Oncogene (KRAS) exon 2 mutation tests for determining the likelihood of treatment response to cetuximab or panitumumab treatment in metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). The other molecular subtypes, such as KRAS exon 3/4, B‐Raf Proto‐Oncogene, NRAF, PIK3CA, and PETN, were also reported as potential new pharmacogenetic targets for the current and the newly discovered anticancer drugs. In addition to next‐generation sequencing (NGS), primary tumor cells for in vivo and in vitro drug screening, imaging biomarker 3′‐Deoxy‐3′‐18F‐fluorothymidine positron emission tomography, and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) detection methods are being developed and may represent the future direction of precision medicine. This review will discuss the current environment of precision medicine, including clinically approved targeted therapies, the latest potential therapeutic agents, and the ongoing pharmacogenetic trials for CRC patients.
Bone morphogenetic protein‐2 promotes osteosarcoma growth by promoting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) through the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Tian Haijun , Zhou Tangjun , Chen Hongfang , Li Chenshuang , Jiang Ziyue , Lao Lifeng , Kahn Suzana Assad , Duarte Maria Eugenia Leite , Zhao Jie , Daubs Michael D. , Buser Zorica , Brochmann Elsa J. , Wang Jeffrey C. , Murray Samuel S.
Published: February 2019

The correlation between BMP‐2 and osteosarcoma growth has gained increased interest in the recent years, however, there is still no consensus. In this study, we tested the effects of BMP‐2 on osteosarcoma cells through both in vitro and in vivo experiments. The effect of BMP‐2 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of osteosarcoma cells was tested in vitro. Subcutaneous and intratibial tumor models were used for the in vivo experiments in nude mice. The effects of BMP‐2 on EMT of osteosarcoma cells and the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway were also tested using a variety of biochemical methods. In vitro tests did not show a significant effect of BMP‐2 on tumor cell proliferation. However, BMP‐2 increased the mobility of tumor cells and the invasion assay demonstrated that BMP‐2 promoted invasion of osteosarcoma cells in vitro. In vivo animal study showed that BMP‐2 dramatically enhanced tumor growth. We also found that BMP‐2 induced EMT of osteosarcoma cells. The expression levels of Axin2 and Dkk‐1 were both down regulated by BMP‐2 treatment, while β‐catenin, c‐myc and Cyclin‐D1 were all upregulated. The expression of Wnt3α and p‐GSK‐3β were also significantly upregulated indicating that the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway was activated during the EMT of osteosarcoma driven by BMP‐2. From this study, we can conclude that BMP‐2 significantly promotes growth of osteosarcoma cells (143B, MG63), and enhances mobility and invasiveness of tumor cells as demonstrated in vitro. The underlying mechanism might be that BMP‐2 promotes EMT of osteosarcoma through the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1638–1648, 2019.
Quantifying Complex Micro‐Topography of Degenerated Articular Cartilage Surface by Contrast‐Enhanced Micro‐Computed Tomography and Parametric Analyses
Authors: Ylitalo Tuomo , Finnilä Mikko A.J. , Gahunia Harpal K. , Karhula Sakari S. , Suhonen Heikki , Valkealahti Maarit , Lehenkari Petri , Hæggström Edward , Pritzker Kenneth P.H. , Saarakkala Simo , Nieminen Heikki J.
Published: February 2019

One of the earliest changes in osteoarthritis (OA) is a surface discontinuity of the articular cartilage (AC), and these surface changes become gradually more complex with OA progression. We recently developed a contrast enhanced micro‐computed tomography (μCT) method for visualizing AC surface in detail. The present study aims to introduce a μCT analysis technique to parameterize these complex AC surface features and to demonstrate the feasibility of using these parameters to quantify degenerated AC surface. Osteochondral plugs (n = 35) extracted from 19 patients undergoing joint surgery were stained with phosphotungstic acid and imaged using μCT. The surface micro‐topography of AC was analyzed with developed method. Standard root mean square roughness (Rq) was calculated as a reference, and the Area Under Curve (AUC) for receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to compare the acquired quantitative parameters with semi‐quantitative visual grading of μCT image stacks. The parameters quantifying the complex micro‐topography of AC surface exhibited good sensitivity and specificity in identifying surface continuity (AUC: 0.93, [0.80 0.99]), fissures (AUC: 0.94, [0.83 0.99]) and fibrillation (AUC: 0.98, [0.88 1.0]). Standard Rq was significantly smaller compared with the complex roughness (CRq) already with mild surface changes with all surface reference parameters − continuity, fibrillation, and fissure sum. Furthermore, only CRq showed a significant difference when comparing the intact surface with lowest fissure sum score. These results indicate that the presented method for evaluating complex AC surfaces exhibit potential to identify early OA changes in superficial AC and is dynamic throughout OA progression. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the Orthopaedic Research Society. Society. 9999:1–12, 2019.
Developing and testing intervention theory by incorporating a views synthesis into a qualitative comparative analysis of intervention effectiveness
Authors: Melendez‐Torres G.J. , Sutcliffe Katy , Burchett Helen E.D. , Rees Rebecca , Thomas James
Published: February 2019

Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) was originally developed as a tool for cross‐national comparisons in macrosociology, but its use in evaluation and evidence synthesis of complex interventions is rapidly developing. QCA is theory‐driven and relies on Boolean logic to identify pathways to an outcome (eg, is the intervention effective or not?). We use the example of two linked systematic reviews on weight management programs (WMPs) for adults—one focusing on user views (a “views synthesis”) and one focusing on the effectiveness of WMPs incorporating dietary and physical activity—to demonstrate how a synthesis of user views can supply a working theory to structure a QCA. We discuss how a views synthesis is especially apt to supply this working theory because user views can (a) represent a “middle‐range theory” of the intervention; (b) bring a participatory, democratic perspective; and (c) provide an idiographic understanding of how the intervention works that external taxonomies may not be able to furnish. We then discuss the practical role that the views synthesis played in our QCA examining pathways to effectiveness: (a) by suggesting specific intervention features and sharpening the focus on the most salient features to be examined, (b) by supporting interpretation of findings, and (c) by bounding data analysis to prevent data dredging.