bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural history bycatch: a pipeline for identifying metagenomic sequences in RADseq data
Authors: Holmes Iris , Davis Rabosky Alison R.
Published: April 2018

Background

Reduced representation genomic datasets are increasingly becoming available from a variety of organisms. These datasets do not target specific genes, and so may contain sequences from parasites and other organisms present in the target tissue sample. In this paper, we demonstrate that (1) RADseq datasets can be used for exploratory analysis of tissue-specific metagenomes, and (2) tissue collections house complete metagenomic communities, which can be investigated and quantified by a variety of techniques.

Methods

We present an exploratory method for mining metagenomic “bycatch” sequences from a range of host tissue types. We use a combination of the pyRAD assembly pipeline, NCBI’s blastn software, and custom R scripts to isolate metagenomic sequences from RADseq type datasets.

Results

When we focus on sequences that align with existing references in NCBI’s GenBank, we find that between three and five percent of identifiable double-digest restriction site associated DNA (ddRAD) sequences from host tissue samples are from phyla to contain known blood parasites. In addition to tissue samples, we examine ddRAD sequences from metagenomic DNA extracted snake and lizard hind-gut samples. We find that the sequences recovered from these samples match with expected bacterial and eukaryotic gut microbiome phyla.

Discussion

Our results suggest that (1) museum tissue banks originally collected for host DNA archiving are also preserving valuable parasite and microbiome communities, (2) that publicly available RADseq datasets may include metagenomic sequences that could be explored, and (3) that restriction site approaches are a useful exploratory technique to identify microbiome lineages that could be missed by primer-based approaches.
Diagnóstico laboratorial das meningites bacterianas
Authors: Fonseca Fernanda Machado , De Santana Synara Cecília , Fonseca Marcela Machado , Terra Ana Paula Sarreta , Sarmento Ronaldo Rodrigues
Published: April 2018

A despeito dos avanços tecnológicos em relação ao diagnóstico, à patogênese e ao tratamento, a meningite bacteriana ainda permanece como importante doença de distribuição mundial, cujo diagnóstico se apoia, principalmente, no exame bacteriológico. Mesmo com o avanço das técnicas moleculares, o diagnóstico microbiológico continua sendo amplamente utilizado e, portanto, merece atenção especial. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um levantamento bibliográfico sobre os principais métodos microbiológicos para o diagnóstico das meningites bacterianas e seus principais agentes causadores, visto que a identificação precisa do agente etiológico permite a correta utilização da terapia farmacológica, o que diminui significativamente os riscos de desenvolvimento de sequelas neurológicas. Abstract:

Despite technological advances in the diagnosis, pathogenesis and treatment, bacterial meningitis still remains an important disease of worldwide distribution in which the diagnosis relies mainly on bacteriological examination. Even with the advances in molecular techniques, microbiologic diagnosis is still widely used and therefore deserves special attention. The aim of this study was a literature review on the main microbiological methods for diagnosis of bacterial meningitis and its main agents, since the precise identification of the agent allows the correct use of drug therapy which significantly reduces the risk of developing neurological sequelae.
Color flow doppler ultrasonography in Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Authors: De Oliveira Andrade Luis Jesuino , Ferreira Andrade Maria Helena , Cruz Thomaz , Santos França Larissa , Santos França Luciana , Bittencourt Alcina Maria Vinhaes
Published: April 2018

Objective: To evaluate if the vascularization patterns in the thyroid gland parenchyma by the conventional ultrasound mode B, and color Doppler ultrasonography correlated with the peak systolic velocity (PSV) of the inferior thyroid artery using pulsed Doppler in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) in various stages. Methods: Patients with diagnosis of HT were enrolled in this prospective study in the period two years. Thyroid glands of all patients were evaluated with conventional ultrasound mode B, color-flow Doppler ultrasonography, and peak systolic velocity (PSV) of the inferior thyroid artery. Data were analyzed applying variance (ANOVA) and Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation. Results: A hundred twenty patients (10 men and 110 women) were included in the study. Highly elevated PSV were associated with very lower thyroid echogenicity and heterogeneous pattern thyroid gland (p= 0.01) and intrathyroidal blood flow (p= 0.004). Conclusions: We conclude that evaluation the vascularization patterns of the thyroid gland parenchyma in patients with HT when compared to conventional ultrasound mode B, and with the PSV of the inferior thyroid artery by pulsed Doppler showed a high correlation. Probably this method could be recommend as a measure of thyroid blood flow as an essential part of evaluating ultrasonography in the HT.
Human major histocompatibility complex and thyroid dysfunction in hepatitis C carries
Authors: De Oliveira Andrade Luis Jesuino , Santana de Melo Paulo Roberto , Santos França Larissa , Santos França Luciana , Andrade Malta Ana Micheline , Paraná Raymundo
Published: April 2018

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is a multigene family of receptors which are crucial in antigen presentation, mediation, and initiation of the cellular immune response. An association exists between certain MHC polymorphisms and autoimmune thyroid disease in animals and humans. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been shown to be associated with increased incidence of thyroid dysfunction, moreover, interferon-á (IFN-á) therapy of chronic HCV infection is associated with the thyroid dysfunction. IFN-á has been the basis for the treatment of HCV infection has been identified as an immunomodulatory cytokine that induces T-lymphocyte activation and expression of MHC molecules. Becomes evident therefore that the MHC- class I and MHC- class II antigens are central to the host immune response and thus are ideal candidate genes to investigate for associations with HCV infection. Autoimmune thyroid diseases are characterized by increased, rather than decreased expression, of MHC- class II antigen. Furthermore, work in animals suggests that the increased production of thyroid antibody and expression of MHC- class I and MHC- class II antigen are associated. This study will address the relation between MHC and thyroid dysfunction in HCV infection carries.
Mediadores do efeito sistêmico do processo inflamatório e terapias fotobiomoduladoras: uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Chamusca Flávia Vilela , Reis Sílvia Regina Almeida , Lemaire Denise , Medrado Alena Peixoto
Published: April 2018

A inflamação é um mecanismo de defesa caracterizado como próprio dos tecidos conjuntivos. Após uma lesão, a formação do exsudato ocorre para manter os fenômenos vasculares deste processo e para atuarem contra o agressor. Os mediadores químicos do exsudato têm grande importância farmacológica e terapêutica e podem ser inibidos ou estimulados, permitindo o controle dos sinais e sintomas da inflamação. A presente revisão de literatura objetiva documentar e descrever os efeitos sistêmicos desencadeados pelo processo inflamatório, contextualizando-o no âmbito da cicatrização de ferimentos assim como também confrontar alguns estudos que relataram a ação local e sistêmica da fotobiomodulação laser em diferentes modelos experimentais. De fato, o laser parece amenizar a resposta inflamatória. No entanto, a literatura reporta poucos dados sobre os efeitos sistêmicos da fotobiomodulação laser, principalmente no que se refere às células monomorfonucleares do sangue, sendo necessário o desenvolvimento de mais estudos nesta área.
Dosimetria e qualidade de imagem em tomografia computadorizada para implante dentário
Authors: Madureira Luiz Cláudio A. , Dantas Janaina Araújo , Simões Cinthia Coelho , Campos Paulo Sérgio Flores
Published: April 2018

O uso da tomografia computadorizada (TC) na área da saúde continua a aumentar rapidamente, devido à sua excelente resolução para tecido de baixo contraste, informação tridimensional e rápido tempo de aquisição. Apesar de seu alto valor diagnóstico, existem preocupações a respeito dos riscos associados à exposição dos pacientes à radiação ionizante. Em virtude disso, o princípio de “tão baixo quanto razoavelmente possível” (ALARA) visa reduzir a dose de radiação na prática clínica. Assim, esforços estão sendo feitos para controlar a exposição à radiação através de técnicas melhoradas e prevenção de exames desnecessários. Dentro deste contexto, existe o desafio de produzir imagens clínicas envolvendo doses reduzidas, com a finalidade de estudar os efeitos do aumento do ruído na performance diagnóstica. No entanto, a preocupação com o risco de repetição do exame limita a utilização de protocolos de baixa dose para avaliação de estruturas de alto contraste. Na geração de imagens pré-implante, em particular, o risco/benefício deve ser estimado, de modo a maximizar o resultado do exame tomográfico.
Revistas Científicas Brasileiras: uma breve reflexão
Authors: Barroso Patricia
Published: April 2018

Foi com muita honra que aceitei o convite do

Editor Científico da Revista de Ciências Médicas e

Biológicas para escrever o editorial deste número.

Diante desta proposta acredito ser oportuno

refletir sobre a importância do periódico científico

enquanto veículo de comunicação científica na

sociedade contemporânea...
A importância dos aspectos interdisciplinares da obesidade
Authors: Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia de
Published: April 2018

É considerado relevante o estudo da obesidade

mediante a análise e a avaliação dos aspectos

interdisciplinares inerentes a esse tema, tendo como

referencial a experiência de profissionais, professores

e pesquisadores de reconhecida experiência nos

diversos ambientes acadêmicos espalhados no

território nacional...
Importância da imagem por ressonância magnética nos estudos dos processos interativos dos órgãos e sistemas
Authors: Madureira Luiz Claudio Almeida , Oliveira Conceição Silva , Seixas Camila , Nardi Vanessa De , Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia , Alves Crésio
Published: April 2018

A imagem por ressonância magnética (IRM) foi desenvolvida a partir da década de 70 do século passado e se tornou uma 

pedra angular para a neurociência. Na IRM, os tecidos biológicos são submetidos a um campo magnético que faz com que núcleos de hidrogênio (prótons) sejam orientados, vibrem em torno do seu eixo, emitam energia e gerem imagens dos diversos tipos de tecido. A técnica de IRM fundamenta-se em três etapas: alinhamento, excitação e detecção de radiofrequência. A IRM funcional é produzida a partir da glicólise oxidativa. A técnica de imagem por difusão ponderada (IDP) explora as diferenças de propriedade de difusão da água, e a imagem por ressonância magnética por tensor de difusão (ITD) permite o estudo in vivo dos tecidos fibrosos. Essas técnicas tornaram possível a visualização dos diferentes processos fisiológicos, bioquímicos, celulares e moleculares, de forma a fornecer informações diretas sobre os processos interativos dos órgãos e sistemas.
Aplicações de enxertos de bancos de ossos em Odontologia
Authors: Souza Delano Oliveira , De Almeida Junior Erasmo Cerqueira , Barreto Isabela Cerqueira , Oliveira Thaís Feitosa L. de , Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia de
Published: April 2018

A regeneração de defeitos ósseos representa um grande desafio para a área biomédica, pois muitas lesões produzem sequelas com comprometimentos funcionais ou estéticos que reduzem a qualidade de vida do indivíduo afetado. Sendo assim, enxertos ósseos podem ser utilizados para o tratamento do tecido ósseo perdido. Os enxertos ósseos autógenos são eleitos como os de primeira escolha, pela sua eficiência, biossegurança e facilidade de obtenção, porém apresentam algumas desvantagens e limitações. A utilização de homoenxertos, provenientes de bancos de ossos, representa uma alternativa aos enxertos ósseos autógenos e demonstra ser uma ferramenta bastante útil para a odontologia, com a finalidade de regenerar o tecido ósseo 

perdido dos maxilares. Este trabalho tem como objetivo realizar uma revisão da literatura sobre as principais aplicações e indicações dos enxertos de bancos de ossos em Odontologia.
Tratamento de múltiplos lipomas de língua: relato de caso clínico
Authors: Souza Cristina Gomes , Souza Delano Oliveira , Nunes Thales De Souza , Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia
Published: April 2018

O lipoma é um tumor benigno de células adiposas, sendo particularmente raro quando múltiplo, de patogênese incerta, constituindo o neoplasma mesenquimal mais comum, com aparecimento em qualquer parte do corpo, principalmente no tecido subcutâneo do pescoço, sendo raro na cavidade bucal. Consiste em massas nodulares moles, de crescimento insidioso e assintomático. Sua frequência na cavidade oral é de 1% a 5% das neoplasias orais. Este trabalho tem por finalidade a apresentação de um relato de caso clínico de um paciente portador de múltiplos lipomas localizados em bordas bilaterais da língua, tratados com excisão local conservadora, sob anestesia geral. É relatado o diagnóstico clínico e imaginológico, a terapêutica empregada e a proservação.
Experiences of physical and relational victimization in children with ADHD: The role of social problems and aggression
Authors: McQuade Julia D. , Breslend Nicole L. , Groff Destin
Published: April 2018

The social risk factors for physical and relational peer victimization were examined within a mixed‐gender sample of children with and without attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Participants were 124 children (ages 8–12 years; 48% boys), with 47% exhibiting sub‐clinical or clinical elevations in ADHD symptoms. ADHD and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptom counts were assessed based on parent‐ and teacher‐reports; parents rated children's social problems and teachers rated children's use of physical and relational aggression and experiences of physical and relational victimization. A multiple mediator model was used to test whether there were indirect effects of ADHD or ODD symptoms on physical and relational victimization through social problems, physical aggression, or relational aggression. At the bivariate level, ADHD and ODD symptoms were both significantly associated with higher rates of physical and relational victimization. In the mediational model, there were significant indirect effects of ADHD symptoms on relational victimization via social problems, of ODD on relational victimization via relational aggression, and of ODD symptoms on physical victimization via physical aggression. Results suggest that there are distinct risk factors implicated in the physical and relational victimization of youth with ADHD and that the co‐occurrence of ODD symptoms is important to assess. Clinical implications for addressing victimization in children with ADHD are discussed.
Bringing Dewey Into the Adult Higher Education Classroom
Authors: Kohli Wendy
Published: April 2018

This chapter shows, through reflection on and examples of my own teaching, the relevance of Dewey's pedagogy of experience to the preparation of teachers.
The learning benefits of teaching: A retrieval practice hypothesis
Authors: Koh Aloysius Wei Lun , Lee Sze Chi , Lim Stephen Wee Hun
Published: April 2018

Teaching educational materials to others enhances the teacher's own learning of those to‐be‐taught materials, although the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we show that the learning‐by‐teaching benefit is possibly a retrieval benefit. Learners (a) solved arithmetic problems (i.e., they neither taught nor retrieved; control group), (b) taught without relying on teaching notes (i.e., they had to retrieve the materials while teaching; teaching group), (c) taught with teaching notes (i.e., they did not retrieve the materials while teaching; teaching without retrieval practice [TnRP] group), or (d) retrieved (i.e., they did not teach but only practised retrieving; retrieval practice group). In a final comprehension test 1 week later, learners in the teaching group, as did those in the retrieval practice group, outperformed learners in the TnRP and control groups. Retrieval practice possibly causes the learning benefits of teaching.
Cucurbit[n]uril Supramolecular Hydrogel Networks as Tough and Healable Adhesives
Authors: Liu Ji , Scherman Oren A.
Published: April 2018

Supramolecular noncovalent interactions are widely found in natural adhesion phenomena to control macroscopic adhesion and accomplish a variety of complex functions. Such supramolecular adhesives could impart the interfaces with intriguing properties, e.g., energy dissipation and self‐healing, on account of their dynamic nature. Here, we demonstrate that cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8])‐based supramolecular hydrogel networks can function as dynamic adhesives for diverse nonporous (e.g., glass, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and titanium) and porous substrates (wood and bone). Without any surface prefunctionalization or introduction of curing agents, these CB[8] hydrogel networks can be readily applied by curing around the softening temperature, forming a tough and healable adhesive interlayer. The ability to fabricate a robust sandwich model consisting of substrate–CB[8] hydrogel network–substrate enables a number of applications including stretchable and wearable electronics, hybrid systems for biomedical devices or tissue/bone regeneration.
Bioengineered Porous Silicon Nanoparticles@Macrophages Cell Membrane as Composite Platforms for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Fontana Flavia , Albertini Silvia , Correia Alexandra , Kemell Marianna , Lindgren Rici , Mäkilä Ermei , Salonen Jarno , Hirvonen Jouni T. , Ferrari Franca , Santos Hélder A.
Published: April 2018

Biohybrid nanosystems are at the center of personalized medicine, affording prolonged circulation time and targeting to the disease site, and serving as antigenic sources of vaccines. The optimization and functionality parameters of these nanosystems vary depending on the properties of the core particles. In this work, the effects of the core particles' surface charge and hydrophobicity are evaluated on the nanosystem coating with vesicles derived from plasma membrane. The measured parameters are the dimensions, surface charge, shape, and stability of the biohybrid nanosystems, both in buffer and in biologically relevant media (plasma and simulated synovial fluid). Moreover, the cytocompatibility properties of the developed nanosystems are evaluated in different cell lines mimicking the target cell populations and other districts of the body involved in the distribution and elimination of the nanoparticles. Finally, the immunological profile of the particles is investigated, highlighting the absence of immune activation promoted by the nanoplatforms.
Coacervation‐Mediated Combinatorial Synthesis of Biomatrices for Stem Cell Culture and Directed Differentiation
Authors: Wieduwild Robert , Wetzel Richard , Husman Dejan , Bauer Sophie , El‐Sayed Iman , Duin Sarah , Murawala Priyanka , Thomas Alvin Kuriakose , Wobus Manja , Bornhäuser Martin , Zhang Yixin
Published: April 2018

Combinatorial screening represents a promising strategy to discover biomaterials for tailored cell culture applications. Although libraries incorporating different biochemical cues have been investigated, few simultaneously recapitulate relevant biochemical, physical, and dynamic features of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Here, a noncovalent system based on liquid–liquid phase separation (coacervation) and gelation mediated by glycosaminoglycan (GAG)‐peptide interactions is reported. Multiple biomaterial libraries are generated using combinations of sulfated glycosaminoglycans and poly(ethylene glycol)‐conjugated peptides. Screening these biomaterials reveals preferred biomatrices for the attachment of six cell types, including primary mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and primary neural precursor cells (NPCs). Incorporation of GAGs sustains the expansion of all tested cell types comparable to standard cell culture surfaces, while osteogenic differentiation of MSC and neuronal differentiation of NPC are promoted on chondroitin and heparan biomatrices, respectively. The presented noncovalent system provides a powerful tool for developing tissue‐specific ECM mimics.
Syntheses and Properties of Metal Nanomaterials with Novel Crystal Phases
Authors: Cheng Hongfei , Yang Nailiang , Lu Qipeng , Zhang Zhicheng , Zhang Hua
Published: April 2018

In recent decades, researchers have devoted tremendous effort into the rational design and controlled synthesis of metal nanomaterials with well‐defined size, morphology, composition, and structure, and great achievements have been reached. However, the crystal‐phase engineering of metal nanomaterials still remains a big challenge. Recent research has revealed that the crystal phase of metal nanomaterials can significantly alter their properties, arising from the distinct atomic arrangement and modified electronic structure. Until now, it has been relatively uncommon to synthesize metal nanomaterials with novel crystal phases in spite of the fact that these nanostructures would be promising for various applications. Here, the research progress regarding the fine control of noble metal (Au, Ag, Ru, Rh, Pd) and non‐noble metal (Fe, Co, Ni) nanomaterials with novel crystal phases is reviewed. First, synthesis strategies and their phase transformations are summarized, while highlighting the peculiar characteristics of each element. The phase‐dependent properties are then discussed by providing representative examples. Finally, the challenges and perspectives in this emerging field are proposed.
3D Nanofabrication via Chemo‐Mechanical Transformation of Nanocrystal/Bulk Heterostructures
Authors: Zhang Mingliang , Guo Jiacen , Yu Yao , Wu Yaoting , Yun Hongseok , Jishkariani Davit , Chen Wenxiang , Greybush Nicholas J. , Kübel Christian , Stein Aaron , Murray Christopher B. , Kagan Cherie R.
Published: April 2018

Planar nanocrystal/bulk heterostructures are transformed into 3D architectures by taking advantage of the different chemical and mechanical properties of nanocrystal and bulk thin films. Nanocrystal/bulk heterostructures are fabricated via bottom‐up assembly and top‐down fabrication. The nanocrystals are capped by long ligands introduced in their synthesis, and therefore their surfaces are chemically addressable, and their assemblies are mechanically “soft,” in contrast to the bulk films. Chemical modification of the nanocrystal surface, exchanging the long ligands for more compact chemistries, triggers large volume shrinkage of the nanocrystal layer and drives bending of the nanocrystal/bulk heterostructures. Exploiting the differential chemo‐mechanical properties of nanocrystal and bulk materials, the scalable fabrication of designed 3D, cell‐sized nanocrystal/bulk superstructures is demonstrated, which possess unique functions derived from nanocrystal building blocks.
Designs and Strategies for the Halo‐Functionalization of Diazo Compounds
Authors: Khanal Hari Datta , Thombal Raju S. , Maezono Shizuka Mei B. , Lee Yong Rok
Published: April 2018

Organo halides and their derivatives have received much attention in both the design and development of new synthetic reagents, drugs, and functional materials. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances and strategies in the halo‐functionalization of diazo compounds, including halogenation, dihalogenation, dihaloolefination, trifluoromethylation, trifluoromethylthiolation, and trifluoromethoxylation, using diverse halogenating agents. Special emphasis is placed on the challenges and achievements of these halogenation strategies. For selected examples, mechanisms leading to unusual reactivities and selectivities are discussed in detail to show the impressive and unique properties of these halogenation reactions. Furthermore, we hope to encourage the scientific community to explore the benefits of using diazo compounds as a straightforward and step‐economic alternative approach to the construction of carbon‐halogen bonds.

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Risk assessment of morbidities after right hemicolectomy based on the National Clinical Database in Japan
Authors: Yoshida Takahiro , Miyata Hiroaki , Konno Hiroyuki , Kumamaru Hiraku , Tangoku Akira , Furukita Yoshihito , Hirahara Norimichi , Wakabayashi Go , Gotoh Mitsukazu , Mori Masaki
Published: April 2018

Objective

Nationwide databases are expected to provide critical data to improve medical practice. The present study used such data to develop risk models for clinically important outcomes after right hemicolectomy based on preoperative risk factors.

Methods

Japan's National Clinical Database (NCD) identified 38 030 cases of right hemicolectomy in the years 2011 and 2012. These were used to analyze correlations between mortality and eight selected clinical outcomes of interest by Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). To construct risk models for the eight selected clinical outcomes, 80% of all the examined cases were extracted randomly as a development cohort, and preoperative risk factors for each clinical outcome were identified using a forward stepwise selection method. Morbidities predicted from the risk models were used to find areas under the receiver operator curves among the remaining 20% of the testing cohort.

Results

The following clinical outcomes were identified as highly associated with operative mortality: systemic sepsis (r = .360), renal failure (r = .341), unplanned intubation (r = .316) and central nervous system (CNS) occurrences (r = .301). Risk models containing up to 21 preoperative variables were constructed for these eight postoperative clinical outcomes. Predictive values of the eight models were as follows: surgical site infections (0.634), anastomotic leakage (0.656), systemic sepsis (0.816), pneumonia (0.846), unplanned intubation (0.838), renal failure (0.883), CNS occurrences (0.833) and transfusion >5 units (0.846).

Conclusions

This study indicated that the NCD‐generated risk models for six of the eight selected critical postoperative outcomes had high discrimination among right hemicolectomy patients. These risk models can accurately identify high‐risk patients prior to surgery.
Validity and significance of 30‐day mortality rate as a quality indicator for gastrointestinal cancer surgeries
Authors: Mizushima Tsunekazu , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Marubashi Shigeru , Kamiya Kinji , Wakabayashi Go , Miyata Hiroaki , Seto Yasuyuki , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki
Published: April 2018

Background and Aim

Benchmarking has proven beneficial in improving the quality of surgery. Mortality rate is an objective indicator, of which the 30‐day mortality rate is the most widely used. However, as a result of recent advances in medical care, the 30‐day mortality rate may not cover overall surgery‐related mortalities. We examined the significance and validity of the 30‐day mortality rate as a quality indicator.

Methods

The present study was conducted on cancer surgeries of esophagectomy, total gastrectomy, distal gastrectomy, right hemicolectomy, low anterior resection, hepatectomy, and pancreaticoduodenectomy that were registered in the first halves of 2012, 2013 and 2014 in a Japanese nationwide large‐scale database. This study examined the mortality curve for each surgical procedure, “sensitivity of surgery‐related death” (capture ratio) at each time point between days 30‐180, and the association between mortality within 30 days, mortality after 31 days, and preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative factors.

Results

Surgery‐related mortality rates of each surgical procedure were 0.6%‐3.0%. Regarding 30‐day mortality rates, only 38.7% (esophagectomy) to 53.3% (right hemicolectomy) of surgery‐related mortalities were captured. The capture ratio of surgery‐related deaths reached 90% or higher for 120‐day to 150‐day mortality rates. Factors associated with mortality rate within 30 days/after the 31st day were different, depending on the type of surgical procedure.

Conclusion

Thirty‐day mortality rate is useful as a quality indicator, but is not necessarily sufficient for all surgical procedures. Quality of surgery may require evaluation by combining 30‐day mortality rates with other indicators, depending on the surgical procedure.
A new prognostic model identifies patients aged 80 years and older with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma who may benefit from curative treatment: A multicenter, retrospective analysis by the Spanish GELTAMO group
Authors: Pardal Emilia , Díez Baeza Eva , Salas Queralt , García Tomás , Sancho Juan M. , Monzón Encarna , Moraleda José M. , Córdoba Raúl , de la Cruz Fátima , Queizán José A. , Rodríguez María J. , Navarro Belén , Hernández José A. , Díez Rosana , Vahi María , Viguria María C. , Canales Miguel , Peñarrubia María J. , González‐López Tomás J. , Montes‐Moreno Santiago , González‐Barca Eva , Caballero Dolores , Martín Alejandro ,   GELTAMO Spanish Collaborative Group
Published: April 2018

The means of optimally managing very elderly patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has not been established. We retrospectively analyzed 252 patients aged 80‐100 years, diagnosed with DLBCL or grade 3B follicular lymphoma, treated in 19 hospitals from the GELTAMO group. Primary objective was to analyze the influence of the type of treatment and comorbidity scales on progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). One hundred sixty‐three patients (63%) were treated with chemotherapy that included anthracyclines and/or rituximab, whereas 15% received no chemotherapeutic treatment. With a median follow‐up of 44 months, median PFS and OS were 9.5 and 12.5 months, respectively. In an analysis restricted to the 205 patients treated with any kind of chemotherapy, comorbidity scales did not influence the choice of treatment type significantly. Independent factors associated with better PFS and OS were: age < 86 years, cumulative illness rating scale (CIRS) score < 6, intermediate risk (1‐2) R‐IPI, and treatment with R‐CHOP at full or reduced doses. We developed a prognostic model based on the multivariate analysis of the 108 patients treated with R‐CHOP‐like: median OS was 45 vs. 12 months (P = .001), respectively, for patients with 0‐1 vs. 2‐3 risk factors (age > 85 years, R‐IPI 3‐5 or CIRS > 5). In conclusion, treatment with R‐CHOP‐like is associated with good survival in a significant proportion of patients. We have developed a simple prognostic model that may aid the selection patients who could benefit from a curative treatment, although it needs to be validated in larger series.
Physician decision making in selection of second‐line treatments in immune thrombocytopenia in children
Authors: Grace Rachael F. , Despotovic Jenny M. , Bennett Carolyn M. , Bussel James B. , Neier Michelle , Neunert Cindy , Crary Shelley E. , Pastore Yves D. , Klaassen Robert J. , Rothman Jennifer A. , Hege Kerry , Breakey Vicky R. , Rose Melissa J. , Shimano Kristin A. , Buchanan George R. , Geddis Amy , Haley Kristina M. , Lorenzana Adonis , Thompson Alexis , Jeng Michael , Neufeld Ellis J. , Brown Travis , Forbes Peter W. , Lambert Michele P.
Published: April 2018

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired autoimmune bleeding disorder which presents with isolated thrombocytopenia and risk of hemorrhage. While most children with ITP promptly recover with or without drug therapy, ITP is persistent or chronic in others. When needed, how to select second‐line therapies is not clear. ICON1, conducted within the Pediatric ITP Consortium of North America (ICON), is a prospective, observational, longitudinal cohort study of 120 children from 21 centers starting second‐line treatments for ITP which examined treatment decisions. Treating physicians reported reasons for selecting therapies, ranking the top three. In a propensity weighted model, the most important factors were patient/parental preference (53%) and treatment‐related factors: side effect profile (58%), long‐term toxicity (54%), ease of administration (46%), possibility of remission (45%), and perceived efficacy (30%). Physician, health system, and clinical factors rarely influenced decision‐making. Patient/parent preferences were selected as reasons more often in chronic ITP (85.7%) than in newly diagnosed (0%) or persistent ITP (14.3%, P = .003). Splenectomy and rituximab were chosen for the possibility of inducing long‐term remission (P < .001). Oral agents, such as eltrombopag and immunosuppressants, were chosen for ease of administration and expected adherence (P < .001). Physicians chose rituximab in patients with lower expected adherence (P = .017). Treatment choice showed some physician and treatment center bias. This study illustrates the complexity and many factors involved in decision‐making in selecting second‐line ITP treatments, given the absence of comparative trials. It highlights shared decision‐making and the need for well‐conducted, comparative effectiveness studies to allow for informed discussion between patients and clinicians.
Continuous electroencephalography predicts delayed cerebral ischemia after subarachnoid hemorrhage: A prospective study of diagnostic accuracy
Authors: Rosenthal Eric S. , Biswal Siddharth , Zafar Sahar F. , O'Connor Kathryn L. , Bechek Sophia , Shenoy Apeksha V. , Boyle Emily J. , Shafi Mouhsin M. , Gilmore Emily J. , Foreman Brandon P. , Gaspard Nicolas , Leslie‐Mazwi Thabele M. , Rosand Jonathan , Hoch Daniel B. , Ayata Cenk , Cash Sydney S. , Cole Andrew J. , Patel Aman B. , Westover M. Brandon
Published: April 2018

Objective

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is a common, disabling complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Preventing DCI is a key focus of neurocritical care, but interventions carry risk and cannot be applied indiscriminately. Although retrospective studies have identified continuous electroencephalographic (cEEG) measures associated with DCI, no study has characterized the accuracy of cEEG with sufficient rigor to justify using it to triage patients to interventions or clinical trials. We therefore prospectively assessed the accuracy of cEEG for predicting DCI, following the Standards for Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy Studies.

Methods

We prospectively performed cEEG in nontraumatic, high‐grade SAH patients at a single institution. The index test consisted of clinical neurophysiologists prospectively reporting prespecified EEG alarms: (1) decreasing relative alpha variability, (2) decreasing alpha‐delta ratio, (3) worsening focal slowing, or (4) late appearing epileptiform abnormalities. The diagnostic reference standard was DCI determined by blinded, adjudicated review. Primary outcome measures were sensitivity and specificity of cEEG for subsequent DCI, determined by multistate survival analysis, adjusted for baseline risk.

Results

One hundred three of 227 consecutive patients were eligible and underwent cEEG monitoring (7.7‐day mean duration). EEG alarms occurred in 96.2% of patients with and 19.6% without subsequent DCI (1.9‐day median latency, interquartile range = 0.9–4.1). Among alarm subtypes, late onset epileptiform abnormalities had the highest predictive value. Prespecified EEG findings predicted DCI among patients with low (91% sensitivity, 83% specificity) and high (95% sensitivity, 77% specificity) baseline risk.

Interpretation

cEEG accurately predicts DCI following SAH and may help target therapies to patients at highest risk of secondary brain injury. Ann Neurol 2018;83:958–969
Catalytic Direct‐Type Addition Reactions of Alkylarenes with Imines and Alkenes
Authors: Yamashita Yasuhiro , Suzuki Hirotsugu , Sato Io , Hirata Tsubasa , Kobayashi Shū
Published: April 2018

Catalytic addition reactions of very weakly acidic nonactivated alkylarenes such as toluene and its derivatives were developed by using a strongly basic mixed catalyst system under mild reaction conditions. The addition reactions with imines and alkenes proceeded smoothly under proton‐transfer conditions to afford the desired products in good to high yields, and high levels of regio‐ and stereoselectivity were achieved. It was also revealed that the asymmetric addition reaction of an alkylarene was possible.
Exploring the Performance Improvement of the Oxygen Evolution Reaction in a Stable Bimetal–Organic Framework System
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Li , Dong Long‐Zhang , Qiao Man , Tang Yu‐Jia , Liu Jiang , Li Yafei , Li Shun‐Li , Su Jia‐Xin , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: April 2018

Despite wide applications of bimetallic electrocatalysis in oxygen evolution reaction (OER) owing to their superior performance, the origin of the improved performance remains elusive. The underlying mechanism was explored by designing and synthesizing a series of stable metal–organic frameworks (MOFs: NNU‐21–24) based on trinuclear metal carboxylate clusters and tridentate carboxylate ligands. Among the examined stable MOFs, NNU‐23 exhibits the best OER performance; particularly, compared with monometallic MOFs, all the bimetallic MOFs display improved OER activity. DFT calculations and experimental results demonstrate that introduction of the second metal atom can improve the activity of the original atom. The proposed model of bimetallic electrocatalysts affecting their OER performance can facilitate design of efficient bimetallic catalysts for energy storage and conversion, and investigation of the related catalytic mechanisms.
From a Helix to a Small Cycle: Metadynamics‐Inspired αvβ6 Integrin Selective Ligands
Authors: Di Leva Francesco Saverio , Tomassi Stefano , Di Maro Salvatore , Reichart Florian , Notni Johannes , Dangi Abha , Marelli Udaya Kiran , Brancaccio Diego , Merlino Francesco , Wester Hans‐Jürgen , Novellino Ettore , Kessler Horst , Marinelli Luciana
Published: April 2018

The RGD‐recognizing αvβ6 integrin has only recently emerged as a major target for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Thus, the development of selective, low‐molecular‐weight ligands of this receptor is still in great demand. Here, a metadynamics‐driven design strategy allowed us to successfully convert a helical nonapeptide into a cyclic pentapeptide (6) showing remarkable potency and αvβ6 specificity. NMR and docking studies elucidated the reasons for the high affinity and selectivity of this compound, setting the ground for the rational design of new αvβ6‐specific small peptides or even peptidomimetics. In vivo PET imaging studies demonstrated the potential use of 6 for medical applications.
Poly(styrene–divinyl benzene)‐immobilized Fe(III) complex of 1,3‐bis(benzimidazolyl)benzene: Efficient catalyst for the photocatalytic degradation of xylenol orange
Authors: Eshwar Rao Shilpa , Gayathri Virupaiah
Published: April 2018

A polymer‐supported Fe(III) complex of 1,3‐bis(benzimidazolyl)benzene [PS–Fe(III)BBZNH] was used in the photodegradation of xylenol orange (XO) dye with H2O2 under UV irradiation. The catalyst was synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, and Fourier transform infrared, far‐infrared, and UV–visible–diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area measurements, thermogravimetric analysis, and magnetic measurements. An octahedral coordination around Fe(III) was confirmed by electronic spectral data, and a decrease in the intensity of the νCH2Cl peak in PS–Fe(III)BBZNH was observed compared to the polymer support; this indicated the binding of the ligand to the support. An array of experiments were carried out to assess the influence of various reaction parameters on its photocatalytic performance to ensure maximum dye degradation. The maximum photocatalytic activity was observed at pH 8 with 125 mg of catalyst, 300 ppm of XO, and 200 ppm of H2O2 with complete mineralization after 90 min, as confirmed by chemical oxygen demand measurements. Furthermore, the reactions were repeated under sunlight and under dark conditions to check the photocatalytic efficiency of PS–Fe(III)BBZNH. It displayed better catalytic performance compared than the unsupported complex, PS–Cu(II)BBZNH [Cu(II) complex of 1,3‐bis(benzimidazolyl)benzene], and PS–VO(IV)BBZNH [VO(IV) complex of 1,3‐bis(benzimidazolyl)benzene]. PS–Fe(III)BBZNH could be recycled for up to seven runs. A tentative mechanism involving ·OH radical was proposed. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46480.
Electrochemical performance and thermal stability of the electrospun PTFE nanofiber separator for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Li Jingde , Zhong Qin , Yao Yongyi , Bi Songhu , Zhou Tao , Guo XiaoMing , Wu Mengqiang , Feng Tingting , Xiang Ruili
Published: April 2018

Separator is a very important set of lithium‐ion batteries. At present, low porosity and poor thermal stability are two major disadvantages of separator. In this work, we first apply electrospinning method to prepare the Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nanofiber separator, which has the advantages of electrospinning method and PTFE materials. The effect of the PTFE nanofiber separator is investigated by scanning electron microscope, Capillary Flow Porometer, thermogravimetric–differential scanning calorimeter, linear sweep voltammeter, AC impedance, and charge/discharge cycling tests. The results demonstrate that the PTFE nanofiber separator has a special fiber structure made from PTFE particles gathering one by one along the fibers. Moreover, the PTFE nanofiber separator exhibits several advantages, including suitable pore diameter, uniform pore size distribution, high porosity, and electrolyte uptake, which enhance the ionic conductivity. The thermal stability of the PTFE nanofiber separator is much better than that of the conventional polyolefin separator. The Li/LiCoO2 cell equipped with PTFE nanofiber separator exhibits excellent rate performance and first charge–discharge specific capacity of 142 and 131 mA h g−1, respectively, accompanied by relatively stable cycle performance at 0.2 C rate. It is supposed to be a candidate for application in lithium‐ion batteries. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46508.
Hybrid composites of ABS with carbonaceous fillers for electromagnetic shielding applications
Authors: Schmitz Débora P. , Silva Tamara I. , Ramoa Sílvia D. A. S. , Barra Guilherme M. O. , Pegoretti Alessandro , Soares Bluma G.
Published: April 2018

This work evaluates the influence of two types of carbonaceous fillers, carbon black (CB) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), on the electrical, electromagnetic, and rheological properties of composites based on poly(acrylonitrile‐co‐butadiene‐co‐styrene) (ABS) prepared by the melt mixing. Electrical conductivity, electromagnetic shielding efficiency (EMI SE) in the X‐band frequency range (8–12.4 GHz), and melt flow index (MFI) results showed that ABS/CNT composites exhibit higher electrical conductivity and EMI SE, but lower MFI when compared to ABS/CB composites. The electrical conductivity of the binary composites showed an increase of around 16 orders of magnitude, when compared to neat ABS, for both fillers. Binary composites with 5 and 15 wt % of filler showed an EMI SE of, respectively, −44 and −83 dB for ABS/CNT, and −9 and −34 dB for ABS/CB. MFI for binary composites with 5 wt % were 15.45 and 0.55 g/10 min for CB and CNT, respectively. Hybrid composites ABS/CNT.CB with 3 wt % total filler and fraction 50:50 and 75:25 showed good correlation between EMI SE and MFI. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46546.
Influence of poly(phosphoric acid) on the properties and structure of ethylene–vinyl acetate‐modified bitumen
Authors: Zhang Feng , Hu Changbin , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2018

Ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA) modified (EM) bitumen was modified further by the addition of poly(phosphoric acid) (PPA). Owing to the gelation and acidification effect of PPA, the high‐temperature properties and compatibility of EM bitumen were improved greatly. Part dissolution of EVA after acidification was confirmed by the viscous behavior of EVA/PPA‐modified (EPM) bitumen in rheological tests to some extent. Morphology observation illustrated the decomposition of EVA in bitumen after PPA modification and ageing. Fourier transform infrared analysis proved that the hydrolysis reaction took place between the vinyl acetate segment of EVA molecule and the extra hydrogen protons of PPA. Thermal analysis displayed the thermodynamic behaviors of EM and EPM bitumens before and after ageing and confirmed the part dissolution of EVA further after PPA acidification. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46553.
Morphological Features of the Branching Pattern of the Hypoglossal Nerve
Authors: Sakamoto Yujiro
Published: April 2018

The hypoglossal or twelfth cranial nerve is the motor nerve to the extrinsic and intrinsic muscles of the tongue, and the superior root of the ansa cervicalis and the thyrohyoid and geniohyoid branches are delivered through the nerve. This study investigated the muscular branches of the hypoglossal nerve to clarify their spatial relationships with the muscles of the tongue and the neighboring structures. The muscles and the nerve were gross anatomically examined in 42 cadavers. The superior root and the thyrohyoid branch left the nerve near the occipital and lingual arteries, respectively. The extrinsic muscles consisted of some components, and the geniohyoid branch and the lingual branches arose on the hyoglossus. The ascending lingual branches formed a plexus on the anterior part of the hyoglossus and were divided into the proximal and distal groups. They supplied the two parts of the hyoglossus, the three bundles of the styloglossus and the superior and inferior longitudinal muscles and communicated with the lingual nerve. The descending lingual branches supplied the inferior part of the genioglossus, and the terminal branches gave intramuscular twigs to its main part and the transverse and vertical muscles. The findings indicated that the branching pattern of the hypoglossal nerve is characterized by the positional relationships to the components of the extrinsic muscles. The hyoid bone can be an effective marker to identify the branches and affected position if it was used in combination with the morphology of the extrinsic muscles, and the knowledge of their variations is also beneficial. Anat Rec, 302:558–567, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Anatomical Relationships of the Ocular Motor Nerves with an Emphasis on Surgical Anatomy of the Orbit
Authors: Apaydin Nihal , Kendir Simel , Karahan Suleyman Tuna
Published: April 2018

The surgical procedures directed to the orbit are invariably reported to be one of the most challenging procedures of the neurosurgery and it is very important to take measures to protect the ocular nerves. Many researchers have tried to identify safe approaches or safe regions in the orbit but the suggestions and results vary among published studies. The ocular motor nerves are under risk of injury during various approaches to the orbit. Simple but careful attention to potential variations in the origin and anatomical course of the ocular nerves and their relationships to the orbit may help to define “safe zones” during various approaches, thus, help to enhance clinical outcomes. The objective of this review, therefore, is to discuss the surgical anatomy of the orbit with special emphasis on oculomotor, trochlear, and abducens nerves and further emphasize their relationships with a surgical point of view during various approaches directed to the orbit. Anat Rec, 302:568–574, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.