bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microencapsulation of rifampicin: A technique to preserve the mechanical properties of bone cement
Authors: Sanz‐Ruiz Pablo , Carbó‐Laso Esther , Del Real‐Romero Juan Carlos , Arán‐Ais Francisca , Ballesteros‐Iglesias Yolanda , Paz‐Jiménez Eva , Sánchez‐Navarro Magdalena , Pérez‐Limiñana María Ángeles , Vaquero‐Martín Javier
Published: May 2017

Two‐stage exchange with antibiotic‐loaded bone cement spacers remains the gold standard for chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Rifampicin is highly efficient on stationary‐phase staphylococci in biofilm; however, its addition to PMMA to manufacture spacers prevents polymerization and reduces mechanical properties. Isolation of rifampicin during polymerization by microencapsulation could allow manufacturing rifampicin‐loaded bone cement maintaining elution and mechanical properties. Microcapsules of rifampicin with alginate, polyhydroxybutyratehydroxyvalerate (PHBV), ethylcellulose and stearic acid (SA) were synthesized. Alginate and PHBV microcapsules were added to bone cement and elution, compression, bending, hardness, setting time and microbiological tests were performed. Repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post‐hoc test were performed, considering a p < 0.05 as statistical significance. Bone cement specimens containing alginate microcapsules eluted more rifampicin than PHBV microcapsules or non‐encapsulated rifampicin over time (p < 0.012). Microencapsulation of rifampicin allowed PMMA to preserve mechanical properties in compression and bending tests. Cement with alginate microcapsules showed similar behavior in hardness tests to control cement over the study period (73 ± 1.68HD). PMMA with alginate microcapsules exhibited the largest zones of inhibition in microbiological tests. Statistically significant differences in mean diameters of zones of inhibition between PMMA loaded with alginate‐rifampicin (p = 0.0001) and alginate‐PHBV microcapsules (p = 0.0001) were detected. Rifampicin microencapsulation with alginate is the best choice to introduce rifampicin in PMMA preserving mechanical properties, setting time, elution, and antimicrobial properties. The main applicability of this study is the opportunity for obtaining rifampicin‐loaded PMMA by microencapsulation of rifampicin in alginate microparticles, achieving high doses of rifampicin in infected tissues, increasing the successful of PJI treatment. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:459–466, 2018.
“Heat shock protein 70 in pancreatic diseases: Friend or foe”
Authors: Giri Bhuwan , Sethi Vrishketan , Modi Shrey , Garg Bharti , Banerjee Sulagna , Saluja Ashok , Dudeja Vikas
Published: May 2017

The heat shock response in pancreatitis that is activated via HSP70 protects acinar cells through multiple simultaneous mechanisms. It inhibits trypsinogen activation and modulates NF‐κB signaling to limit acinar cell injury. On the other hand, HSP70 is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and is hijacked by the cellular machinery to inhibit apoptosis. Inhibition of HSP70 in pancreatic cancer by a novel compound, Minnelide, has shown considerable clinical promise.
The prognostic importance of scalp location in primary head and neck melanoma
Authors: Ozao‐Choy Junko , Nelson Daniel W. , Hiles Jason , Stern Stacey , Yoon Jeong Lim , Sim Myung Shin , Faries Mark B.
Published: May 2017

Background and Objectives

For patients with cutaneous melanoma, primary tumors located in the head and neck is associated with poor outcomes. The reason for this difference and whether it is applicable to all locations within the head and neck remains unclear. We hypothesized that scalp melanoma is uniquely distinguished from other anatomic sites and is independently responsible for the poor prognosis of head and neck melanoma.

Methods

Query and analysis of a prospectively maintained melanoma database of all patients treated for primary cutaneous melanoma from 1971 to 2010.

Results

Of 11 384 patients identified, 7% (n = 799) of lesions originated on the scalp. Scalp primaries were more often found in males and were associated with increased Breslow thickness and were more frequently ulcerated compared to all other anatomic sites (P = 0.0001). On multivariate analysis, scalp location was an independent predictor of worse melanoma‐specific (HR 1.75; CI 1.50‐2.04; P < 0.0001) and overall survival (HR 1.62; CI 1.41‐1.86; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This, the largest series examining scalp melanoma, confirms that scalp location is independently responsible for the negative prognosis associated with head and neck melanoma. Although the pathophysiology of this difference remains to be determined, these data argue for more rigorous surveillance of this anatomic location.
ACSS2 gene variant associated with cleft lip and palate in two independent Hispanic populations
Authors: Dodhia Sonam , Celis Katrina , Aylward Alana , Cai Yi , Fontana Maria E. , Trespalacios Alberto , Hoffman David C. , Alfonso Henry Ostos , Eisig Sidney B. , Su Gloria H. , Chung Wendy K. , Haddad Joseph
Published: May 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

A candidate variant (p.Val496Ala) of the ACSS2 gene (T > C missense, rs59088485 variant at chr20: bp37 33509608) was previously found to consistently segregate with nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCLP) in three Honduran families. Objectives of this study were 1) to investigate the frequency of this ACSS2 variant in Honduran unrelated NSCLP patients and unrelated unaffected controls and 2) to investigate the frequency of this variant in Colombian unrelated affected NSCLP patients and unrelated unaffected controls.

Study Design

Case–control studies.

Methods

Sanger sequencing of 99 unrelated Honduran NSCLP patients and 215 unrelated unaffected controls for the p.Val496Ala ACSS2 variant was used to determine the carrier frequency in NSCLP patients and controls. Sanger sequencing of 230 unrelated Colombian NSCLP patients and 146 unrelated unaffected controls for the p.Val496Ala ACSS2 variant was used to determine the carrier frequency in NSCLP patients and controls.

Results

In the Honduran population, the odds ratio of having NSCLP among carriers of the p.Val496Ala ACSS2 variant was 4.0 (P = .03), with a carrier frequency of seven of 99 (7.1%) in unrelated affected and four of 215 (1.9%) in unrelated unaffected individuals. In the Colombian population, the odds ratio of having NSCLP among carriers of the p.Val496Ala ACSS2 variant was 2.6 (P = .04), with a carrier frequency of 23 of 230 (10.0%) in unrelated affected and six of 146 (4.1%) in unrelated unaffected individuals.

Conclusions

These findings support the role of ACSS2 in NSCLP in two independent Hispanic populations from Honduras and Colombia.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 127:E336–E339, 2017
Validation and cross‐cultural adaptation of the arabic version of the nasal obstruction symptom evaluation scale
Authors: Amer Mohamed A. , Kabbash Ibrahim A. , Younes Ahmed , Elzayat Saad , Tomoum Mohamed O.
Published: May 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Validation and cross‐cultural adaptation of the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale into the Arabic language with studying of its psychometric properties.

Study Design

Prospective instrument‐validation study.

Methods

Guidelines for the cross‐cultural adaptation process from the original English language scale into the Arabic language version were followed. We assessed the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the NOSE scale (A‐NOSE) (feasibility, reproducibility, internal consistency, reliability, discriminatory validity, responsiveness to change) in 101 consecutive patients who underwent septal surgery (preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively) and 102 asymptomatic controls.

Results

The Mann‐Whitney test showed a statistically significant difference for the mean score between the patients and the control group denoting good clinical validity. The Cronbach's α coefficient value for the A‐NOSE scale for 101 cases was 0.995, demonstrating good internal consistency. The Wilcoxon signed rank test showed a marked improvement in the patients score 3 months postoperatively. Correlation and level of agreement of the mean score of the A‐NOSE scale for each question were studied using Spearman's rank correlation for each question, and Pearson's correlation for the total score showed statistically significant results.

Conclusions

The A‐NOSE scale is a valid instrument for evaluating the subjective severity of nasal obstruction and is recommended to be used in rhinology research and daily practice.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 127:2455–2459, 2017
A systematic review of patient‐reported measures associated with vestibular dysfunction
Authors: Stewart Vicky M. , Mendis M. Dilani , Low Choy Nancy
Published: May 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Use of clinical questionnaires to assist in the screening of vestibular disorders in the acute hospital setting is needed. The objective is to detail the clinimetric properties and clinical utility of patient‐reported questionnaires for quantifying dizziness/vertigo symptoms associated with vestibular dysfunction, and to determine validity and utility for screening dizziness/vertigo in the emergency department.

Data Sources

We performed a systematic review of PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science in May 2015.

Methods

Two independent reviewers selected studies reporting clinimetric properties of patient‐reported questionnaires that aim to evaluate symptomology of dizziness/vertigo associated with vestibular dysfunction. A third reviewer resolved disparities. Of 1,901 articles initially found in the database search, 58 articles and 9 patient‐reported questionnaires were included.

Results

Clinimetric properties of content validity, criterion validity, internal consistency, inter‐/intrarater reliability, test–retest reliability, and responsiveness to vestibular rehabilitation are reported, and methodological quality is rated using the COSMIN (Consensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments) checklist. Clinical utility is described in terms of target population, purpose, number of items, and whether the questionnaire was validated in the emergency department.

Conclusions

The Vestibular Rehabilitation Benefit Questionnaire, a relatively new tool, scored an “excellent” rating on three COSMIN criteria, and may be the best measure to address treatment outcomes. Questions on respective tools ranged from nine to 36, and no questionnaire was validated in the emergency department. Due to the number of questions and lack of validity, none of the questionnaires was deemed appropriate as a screening tool for dizziness/vertigo in the emergency department. Laryngoscope, 128:971–981, 2018
Comparative effect of the sites of anterior cervical pressure on the geometry of the upper esophageal sphincter high‐pressure zone
Authors: Mei Ling , Jiao Hongmei , Sharma Tarun , Dua Arshish , Sanvanson Patrick , Jadcherla Sudarshan R. , Shaker Reza
Published: May 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

External cricoid pressure is increasingly used to augment the upper esophageal sphincter (UES). Our objective was to determine the effect of 1) pressures applied to cricoid, supracricoid, and subcricoid regions on the length and amplitude of the UES high‐pressure zone (UESHPZ), and 2) the external cricoid pressure on lower esophageal sphincter (LES) tone.

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Methods

We studied 11 patients with supraesophageal reflux (mean age 58 ± 12 years) and 10 healthy volunteers (mean age 47 ± 19 years). We tested 20, 30, and 40 mm Hg pressures to cricoid, 1 cm proximal and 1 cm distal to the cricoid. In an additional 15 healthy volunteers (mean age 46 ± 23 years), we studied the effect of external cricoid pressure on LES tone. UES and LES pressures were determined using high‐resolution manometry.

Results

There was significant increase of UESHPZ length with application of pressure at all sites. The increase of UESHPZ length was relatively symmetric, more orad, and more caudad when the pressure was applied at the cricoid, supracricoid, and subcricoid levels, respectively. The magnitude of pressure increase was greatest at the middle and orad part of the UESHPZ when the pressure was applied at the cricoid and supracricoid levels, respectively. The corresponding magnitude of increase in the caudad part of the UESHPZ was not observed with pressure at the subcricoid level. There was no change of the LES pressure with application of cricoid pressure.

Conclusions

The effect of external pressure on the UESHPZ is site dependent. Subcricoid pressure has the least effect on UESHPZ. External cricoid pressure at 20 to 40 mm Hg has no effect on the LES pressure.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 127:2466–2474, 2017
Impact of resident involvement in outpatient otolaryngology procedures: An analysis of 17,647 cases
Authors: Baker Andrew B. , Ong Adrian A. , O'Connell Brendan P. , Sokohl Alexander D. , Clinkscales William B. , Meyer Ted A.
Published: May 2017

Objective

This study examines the impact of resident physician participation on postoperative outcomes in outpatient otolaryngologic surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for outpatient otolaryngologic procedures performed on adult patients. Cases were analyzed with the following cohorts: attending with resident or attending without resident. Outcomes included complications, readmission, reoperation, and operative time.

Results

A total of 17,647 cases were analyzed, with 13,123 patients in the attending without resident cohort and 4,524 patients in the attending with resident cohort. The majority of patients were female (58.7%) and white (88.0%). The average age was 44 (range 16–89) years, and average body mass index was 29.0 ± 7.3 kg/m2. Total relative value units were higher in the attending with resident group 14.6 ± 12.0 compared with 10.2 ± 8.3 in the attending without resident group (P < 0.01).

Univariate analysis revealed that resident participation increased complication rate (2.0% vs. 1.4%, P < 0.01) and operative time (108 ± 98 minutes vs. 60 ± 55 minutes, P < 0.01). There were no differences in readmissions (P = 0.35), reoperations (P > 0.05), or death rates (P = 0.32) between groups. Multivariate regression analysis, however, revealed that resident participation did not increase the rate of any complication, and that operative time was the only significantly impacted variable (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Resident surgical training remains a vital component of the current health care system. Previous research has shown that, despite increased operative time, resident participation does not significantly impact complication rates for otolaryngology procedures. This study confirms these findings in the outpatient setting, thus reassuring both the surgeon and patients that resident participation does not impact procedural safety.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2026–2032, 2017
Aragonite saturation and pH variation in a fringing reef are strongly influenced by oceanic conditions
Authors: Norzagaray‐López C. O. , Hernández‐Ayón J. M. , Calderon Aguilera L. E. , Reyes‐Bonilla H. , Chapa‐Balcorta C. , Ayala‐Bocos A.
Published: May 2017

Seasonal variations of the CO2 system in seawater for coral reefs are often controlled by both chemical‐biological processes and by regional oceanographic features in combination with the residence time of adjacent water. This study reports the seasonal variability of the CO2 system along a year though dissolved inorganic carbon and pH measurements in Cabo Pulmo, a fringing reef from the Mexican Pacific. Two conditions were found on the reef: summer with the presence of Tropical Surface Water (TSW), characterized by high temperature, lower DIC levels, and a higher aragonite saturation (Ωarag); and winter with Gulf of California Water (GCW), when the opposite occurred. This seasonal variation was due to the horizontal advection of two surface water masses: Gulf of California water during winter and Tropical Surface Water the rest of the year as a result of the ocean circulation at the entrance of the Gulf of California. Therefore, the reef is significantly influenced by open ocean waters, where the depth is less than 20 m. The seasonal variability in Ωarag between months with the presence of GCW and TSW is one of the largest ranges reported in coral reefs (ΔΩarag = 0.5 units). Our results suggest that the reef community cannot modify the aragonite or pH of incoming ocean water. This might be the case in other fringing reefs, where the use of ocean acidification forecast models is suitable.
Optical mapping of nonmelanoma skin Cancers—A pilot clinical study
Authors: Yaroslavsky Anna N. , Feng Xin , Neel Victor A.
Published: May 2017

Background and Objective

Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common human cancer. Because these tumors often affect the face, there is a strong need for both accurate removal of these neoplasms to prevent recurrence and maximal tissue preservation to prevent cosmetic or functional deformity. Polarization‐enhanced reflectance and fluorescence imaging (PERFI) is a new bedside method that uses fluorescent chromophores to image NMSC. While the feasibility of the technique has been successfully demonstrated in ex vivo studies, this is the first pilot study to extend the use of PERFI to in vivo intraoperative imaging of NMSC.

Materials and Methods

Subjects were recruited from a population of patients with biopsy‐confirmed NMSC, scheduled for Mohs micrographic surgery. Eight cases were studied. Sterile methylene blue (MB) was diluted in anaesthetic solution and infused into the peritumoral space. Digital photographs of the lesion were taken and Mohs surgery was performed. Then, the surgical bed was re‐imaged. Each excision was also imaged ex vivo and processed for routine histopathology. Optical images were processed and compared with histopathology.

Results and Conclusions

The injection of MB was well tolerated. We observed a transient blue staining of the treated area, which disappeared completely within 1 week in all of the patients. In all subjects, the contrast agent, MB, was preferentially retained in the tumor. The ex vivo images correlated well with histopathology. In vivo images qualitatively delineated the tumor margins. The results of our pilot trial indicate that PERFI may be useful for accurate and rapid delineation of NMSC during surgery. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:803–809, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Semi‐IPNs with Moisture‐Triggered Shape Memory and Self‐Healing Properties
Authors: Jiang Zhi‐Chao , Xiao Yao‐Yu , Kang Yang , Li Bang‐Jing , Zhang Sheng
Published: May 2017

Moisture or water has the advantages of being green, inexpensive, and moderate. However, it is challenging to endow water‐induced shape memory property and self‐healing capability to one single polymer because of the conflicting structural requirement of the two types of materials. In this study, this problem is solved through introducing two kinds of supramolecular interactions into semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs). The hydrogen bonds function as water‐sensitive switches, making the materials show moisture‐induced shape memory effect. The host–guest interactions (β‐cyclodextrin‐adamantane) serve as both permanent phases and self‐healing motifs, enabling further increased chain mobility at the cracks and self‐healing function. In addition, these polyvinylpyrrolidone/poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐co‐butyl acrylate) semi‐IPNs also show thermosensitive triple‐shape memory effect.

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Diversity of aromatic hydroxylating dioxygenase genes in mangrove microbiome and their biogeographic patterns across global sites
Authors: de Sousa Sanderson T. P. , Cabral Lucélia , Lacerda Júnior Gileno Vieira , Oliveira Valéria M.
Published: May 2017

Aromatic hydrocarbons (AH), such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, are compounds largely found in nature. Aromatic‐ring‐hydroxylating dioxygenases (ARHD) are proteins involved in AH degradation pathways. We used ARHD functional genes from an oil‐impacted mangrove area and compared their diversity with other sites around the world to understand the ARHD biogeographic distribution patterns. For this, a comprehensive database was established with 166 operational protein families (OPFs) from 1,758 gene sequences obtained from 15 different sites worldwide, of which twelve are already published studies and three are unpublished. Based on a deduced ARHD peptide sequences consensus phylogeny, we examined trends and divergences in the sequence phylogenetic clustering from the different sites. The taxonomic affiliation of the OPF revealed that Pseudomonas, Streptomyces, Variovorax, Bordetella and Rhodococcus were the five most abundant genera, considering all sites. The functional diversity analysis showed the enzymatic prevalence of benzene 1,2‐dioxygenase, 3‐phenylpropionate dioxygenase and naphthalene 1,2‐dioxygenase, in addition to 10.98% of undefined category ARHDs. The ARHD gene correlation analysis among different sites was essentially important to gain insights on spatial distribution patterns, genetic congruence and ecological coherence of the bacterial groups found. This work revealed the genetic potential from the mangrove sediment for AH biodegradation and a considerable evolutionary proximity among the dioxygenase OPFs found in Antarctica and South America sites, in addition to high level of endemism in each continental region.
Acetylcholine‐related proteins in non‐neoplastic appearing colonic mucosa from patients with colorectal neoplasia
Authors: Damm Morten Matthiesen Bach , Jensen Thorbjørn Søren Rønn , Mahmood Badar , Lundh Morten , Poulsen Steen Seier , Bindslev Niels , Hansen Mark Berner
Published: May 2017

The pathogenesis of colorectal neoplasia (CRN) has been associated with altered non‐neuronal acetylcholine (ACh) metabolism. The aim of this study was to characterize expression, function, and cellular location of ACh‐related proteins in biopsies obtained from endoscopic normal‐appearing sigmoid colon in patients with and without CRN. Messenger‐RNA (mRNA) levels of 17 ACh‐related proteins were quantified by rt‐qPCR. Functional responses to ACh, measured as electrogenic transepithelial short circuit current (SCC), were recorded using the Ussing chamber technique. Finally, cellular localization of choline transporter‐like proteins (CTLs) and butyryl‐cholinesterase enzyme (BChE) was determined by immunohistochemistry. mRNA expression of CTL1 and CTL4 was increased in patients with CRN (P = 0.002 and P = 0.04, respectively). In functional experiments, baseline SCC was increased in CRN patients. ACh induced rapid biphasic changes in SCC. An initial decreasing phase was observed in the minority of CRN patients versus the majority of controls (25% vs 69%, respectively, P = 0.031). For the second increasing phase of SCC, data indicated ACh‐activation of two receptors. For both parts of the biphasic response, the half maximal effective concentration and maximal responses showed no difference between patient groups. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated CTL1, 3 and 4 and BChE to be localized to colonic crypt cells. We conclude that CRN is associated with increased expression of CTL1 and CTL4, augmented basal prostaglandin‐dependent secretion, and altered functional channel response to ACh in human endoscopic normal‐appearing colonic mucosa. The immunohistochemical findings support CTL1, CTL3, CTL4, and BChE to be involved in non‐neuronal mucosal ACh metabolism.
CD38 enhances the proliferation and inhibits the apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by affecting the mitochondria functions
Authors: Liao Shan , Xiao Songshu , Chen Hongxiang , Zhang Manying , Chen Zhifang , Long Yuehua , Gao Lu , Zhu Guangchao , He Junyu , Peng Shuping , Xiong Wei , Zeng Zhaoyang , Li Zheng , Zhou Ming , Li Xiaoling , Ma Jian , Wu Minghua , Xiang Juanjuan , Li Guiyuan , Zhou Yanhong
Published: May 2017

Cervical cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in women all over the world. The exact mechanism of occurrence and development of cervical cancer has not been fully elucidated. CD38 is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein, which was found to mediate diverse activities, including signal transduction, cell adhesion, and cyclic ADP‐ribose synthesis. Here, we reported that CD38 promoted cell proliferation and inhibited cell apoptosis in cervical cancer cells by affecting the mitochondria functions. We established stable cervical cancer cell lines with CD38 over‐expressed. CCK8 assay and colony formation assay indicated that CD38 promoted cervical cancer cell proliferation. Nude mouse tumorigenicity assay showed that CD38 significantly promotes tumor growth in vivo. CD38 also induced S phase accumulation in cell cycle analysis and suppressed cell apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. Meanwhile, flow cytometry analysis of mitochondria functions suggested that CD38 decreased intracellular Ca2+ levels in cervical cancer cells and CD38 was involved in down‐regulation of ROS levels and prevented mitochondrial apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. The percentage of cells with loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) in CD38‐overexpressed cervical cancer cells was less than control groups. Furthermore, we found an up‐regulation of MDM2, cyclinA1, CDK4, cyclinD1, NF‐kB P65, c‐rel, and a downregulation of P53, P21, and P38 by Western blot analysis. These results indicated that CD38 enhanced the proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by affecting the mitochondria functions.
Interactions between calcium intake and polymorphisms in genes essential for calcium reabsorption and risk of colorectal neoplasia in a two‐phase study
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zhu Xiangzhu , Shrubsole Martha J. , Ness Reid M. , Hibler Elizabeth A. , Cai Qiuyin , Long Jirong , Chen Zhi , Jiang Ming , Kabagambe Edmond K. , Zhang Bing , Hou Lifang , Smalley Walter E. , Edwards Todd L. , Giovannucci Edward L. , Zheng Wei , Dai Qi
Published: May 2017

The SLC8A1 (solute carrier family 8, member 1) gene, encoding Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, is essential in regulating calcium reabsorption and homeostasis. Calcium homeostasis plays a key role in cell proliferation and apoptosis. We hypothesized that polymorphisms in five calcium‐regulating genes (SLC8A1, ATP2B1, CALB1, CALB2, and CABP1) interact with calcium intake in relation to the risk of colorectal neoplasia. A two‐phase (discovery and replication) study was conducted within the Tennessee Colorectal Polyp Study, including a total of 1275 cases and 2811 controls. In Phase I, we identified six out of 135 SNPs that significantly interacted with calcium intake in relation to adenoma risk. In Phase II, the calcium intake by rs4952490 (SLC8A1) interaction was replicated (Pinteraction = 0.048). We found an inverse association between calcium intake (1000‐2000 mg/day) and colorectal adenomas, particularly for multiple/advanced adenomas, among the G‐allele carriers but not among homozygous carriers of the common variant (A) in rs4952490. In the joint analysis of SLC8A1, KCNJ1, and SLC12A1 SNPs, carriers of variant alleles in at least two genes and with calcium intake above the DRI (1000 mg/day) were approximately 30‐57% less likely to have adenomas than those whose calcium intake was below the DRI. The association was stronger for multiple/advanced adenomas. No association was found among those who did not carry any variant alleles in these genes when calcium intake was below 2500 mg/day. These findings, if confirmed, may provide a new avenue for the personalized prevention of colorectal adenoma and cancer.
BMP4 enhances hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation by promoting cell cycle progression via ID2/CDKN1B signaling
Authors: Ma Junli , Zeng Shan , Zhang Yan , Deng Ganlu , Qu Yanling , Guo Cao , Yin Ling , Han Ying , Shen Hong
Published: May 2017

Bone morphogenetic protein‐4 (BMP4) plays a crucial role in carcinogenesis, but the effects and signaling mechanisms of BMP4 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not clearly clarified. The present study aimed to identify the roles of BMP4 in the proliferation of human HCC. In this study, BMP4 expression and its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics and the survival of HCC patients were analyzed in two independent cohorts consisting of 310 subjects. Functional analysis of BMP4 on HCC proliferation was performed in vitro and in vivo in human HCC specimens, HCC cells of Bel‐7402 and HCCLM3, and subcutaneous tumor model. The downstream signaling targets of BMP4 in HCC were investigated by PCR Array and Western blot. The results indicated that BMP4 expression was significantly increased in HCC tissues and closely related with unfavorable prognosis of HCC. BMP4 treatment increased cell proliferation and promoted G1/S cell cycle progression. In vivo subcutaneous tumor of nude mice model supported that BMP4 overexpression promoted the growth of HCC cells and BMP4 knockdown hold the opposite trend. Id2 was directly upregulated by BMP4, resulting in the mediated expression of cell cycle regulatory protein of CDKN1B. Blocking of Id2 attenuated BMP4‐induced proliferation, confirming the important roles of Id2 in BMP4‐mediated proliferation in HCC. So BMP4 is overexpressed in HCC tissues and acts as a poor prognostic factor of HCC patients. BMP4‐induced ID2/CDKN1B signaling facilitates proliferation of HCC.
Prolate spheroidal wave functions associated with the quaternionic Fourier transform
Authors: Zou Cuiming , Kou Kit Ian , Morais Joao
Published: May 2017

One of the fundamental problems in communications is finding the energy distribution of signals in time and frequency domains. It should therefore be of great interest to find the quaternionic signal whose time‐frequency energy distribution is most concentrated in a given time‐frequency domain. The present paper finds a new kind of quaternionic signals whose energy concentration is maximal in both time and frequency under the quaternionic Fourier transform. The new signals are a generalization of the classical prolate spheroidal wave functions to a quaternionic space, which are called the quaternionic prolate spheroidal wave functions. The purpose of this paper is to present the definition and fundamental properties of the quaternionic prolate spheroidal wave functions and to show that they can reach the extreme case within the energy concentration problem both from the theoretical and experimental description. The superiority of the proposed results can be widely applied to the application of 4D valued problems. In particular, these functions are shown as an effective method for bandlimited quaternionic signals relying on the extrapolation problem. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Calderón problem in periodic cylindrical domain with partial Dirichlet and Neumann data
Authors: Choulli Mourad , Kian Yavar , Soccorsi Eric
Published: May 2017

We consider the Calderón problem in an infinite cylindrical domain, whose cross section is a bounded domain of the plane. We prove log–log stability in the determination of the isotropic periodic conductivity coefficient from partial Dirichlet data and partial Neumann boundary observations of the solution. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A prediction model of radiation‐induced necrosis for intracranial radiosurgery based on target volume
Authors: Zhao Bo , Wen Ning , Chetty Indrin J. , Huang Yimei , Brown Stephen L. , Snyder Karen C. , Siddiqui Farzan , Movsas Benjamin , Siddiqui M. Salim
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This study aims to extend the observation that the 12 Gy‐radiosurgical‐volume (V12Gy) correlates with the incidence of radiation necrosis in patients with intracranial tumors treated with radiosurgery by using target volume to predict V12Gy. V12Gy based on the target volume was used to predict the radiation necrosis probability (P) directly. Also investigated was the reduction in radiation necrosis rates (ΔP) as a result of optimizing the prescription isodose lines for linac‐based SRS.

Methods

Twenty concentric spherical targets and 22 patients with brain tumors were retrospectively studied. For each case, a standard clinical plan and an optimized plan with prescription isodose lines based on gradient index were created. V12Gy were extracted from both plans to analyze the correlation between V12Gy and target volume. The necrosis probability P as a function of V12Gy was evaluated. To account for variation in prescription, the relation between V12Gy and prescription was also investigated.

Results

A prediction model for radiation‐induced necrosis was presented based on the retrospective study. The model directly relates the typical prescribed dose and the target volume to the radionecrosis probability; V12Gy increased linearly with the target volume (R2 > 0.99). The linear correlation was then integrated into a logistic model to predict P directly from the target volume. The change in V12Gy as a function of prescription was modeled using a single parameter, s (=−1.15). Relatively large ΔP was observed for target volumes between 7 and 28 cm3 with the maximum reduction (8–9%) occurring at approximately 18 cm3.

Conclusions

Based on the model results, optimizing the prescription isodose line for target volumes between 7 and 28 cm3 results in a significant reduction in necrosis probability. V12Gy based on the target volume could provide clinicians a predictor of radiation necrosis at the contouring stage thus facilitating treatment decisions.
Metallic nanoparticles irradiated by low‐energy protons for radiation therapy: Are there significant physical effects to enhance the dose delivery?
Authors: Heuskin Anne‐Catherine , Gallez Bernard , Feron Olivier , Martinive Philippe , Michiels Carine , Lucas Stéphane
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To identify which physical properties of nanoparticles are correlated with the survival fraction of cells exposed in vitro to low‐energy protons in combination with nanoparticles.

Methods

The Geant4 simulation toolkit (version 10.3) was used to model nanoparticles of different sizes (5–50 nm) and materials (Ti, Zr, Hf, Ta, Au, Pt), with or without an organic capping ensuring biocompatibility and to irradiate them with 1.3 or 4 MeV protons and 5.3 MeV alpha particles. The spectra of secondary electrons inside and at the nanoparticle surface were computed, as well as electron yields, Auger and organic capping contribution, trapping in metal bulk and linear energy transfer profiles as a function of distance from the nanoparticle center. In a next step, an in silico cell model was designed and loaded with gold nanoparticles, according to experimental uptake values. Dose to the cell was evaluated macroscopically and microscopically in 100 × 100 × 100 nm³ voxels for different radiation qualities.

Results

The cell geometry showed that radiation enhancement is negligible for the gold concentration used and for any radiation quality. However, when the single nanoparticle geometry is considered, we observed a local LET in its vicinity considerably higher than for the water equivalent case (up to 5 keV/μm at the titanium nanoparticle surface compared to 2.5 keV/μm in the water case). The yield of secondary electrons per primary interaction with 1.3 MeV protons was found to be most favorable for titanium (1.54), platinum (1.44), and gold (1.32), although results for higher Z metals are probably underestimated due to the incomplete simulation of de‐excitation cascade in outer shells. It was also found that the organic capping contributed mostly to the production of low‐energy electrons, adding a spike of dose near the nanoparticle surface. Indeed, the yield for the coated gold nanoparticle increased to 1.53 when exposed to 1.3 MeV protons. Although most electrons are retained inside larger nanoparticles (50 nm), it was shown that their yield is comparable to smaller sizes and that the linear energy transfer profile is better. From a combination of ballistic and nanoparticle size factors, it was concluded that 10‐nm gold nanoparticles were better inducers of additional cell killing than 5‐nm gold nanoparticles, matching our previous in vitro study.

Conclusions

Although effects from a physical standpoint are limited, the high linear energy transfer profile at the nanoparticle surface generates detrimental events in the cell, in particular ROS‐induced damage and local heating.
PLANET: An ellipse fitting approach for simultaneous T1 and T2 mapping using phase‐cycled balanced steady‐state free precession
Authors: Shcherbakova Yulia , van den Berg Cornelis A.T. , Moonen Chrit T.W. , Bartels Lambertus W.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of a novel, ellipse fitting approach, named PLANET, for simultaneous estimation of relaxation times T1 and T2 from a single 3D phase‐cycled balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) sequence.

Methods

A method is presented in which the elliptical signal model is used to describe the phase‐cycled bSSFP steady‐state signal. The fitting of the model to the acquired data is reformulated into a linear convex problem, which is solved directly by a linear least squares method, specific to ellipses. Subsequently, the relaxation times T1 and T2, the banding free magnitude, and the off‐resonance are calculated from the fitting results.

Results

Maps of T1 and T2, as well as an off‐resonance and a banding free magnitude can be simultaneously, quickly, and robustly estimated from a single 3D phase‐cycled bSSFP sequence. The feasibility of the method was demonstrated in a phantom and in the brain of healthy volunteers on a clinical MR scanner. The results were in good agreement for the phantom, but a systematic underestimation of T1 was observed in the brain.

Conclusion

The presented method allows for accurate mapping of relaxation times and off‐resonance, and for the reconstruction of banding free magnitude images at realistic signal‐to‐noise ratios. Magn Reson Med 79:711–722, 2018. © 2017 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution‐NonCommercial‐NoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non‐commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.
Muscle growth: To infinity and beyond?
Authors: Counts Brittany R. , Buckner Samuel L. , Mouser J. Grant , Dankel Scott J. , Jessee Matthew B. , Mattocks Kevin T. , Loenneke Jeremy P.
Published: May 2017

Strength increases following training are thought to be influenced first by neural adaptions and second by large contributions from muscle growth. This is based largely on the idea that muscle growth is a slow process and that a plateau in muscle growth would substantially hinder long‐term increases in strength. This Review examines the literature to determine the time course of skeletal muscle growth in the upper and lower body and to determine whether and when muscle growth plateaus. Studies were included if they had at least 3 muscle size time points, involved participants 18 years or older, and used a resistance training protocol. Muscle growth occurs sooner than had once been hypothesized, and this adaptation is specific to the muscle group. Furthermore, the available studies indicate that the muscle growth response will plateau, and additional growth is not likely to occur appreciably beyond this initial plateau. However, the current study durations are a limitation. Muscle Nerve 56: 1022–1030, 2017
A Pilates exercise program with pelvic floor muscle contraction: Is it effective for pregnant women? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dias Naiara T. , Ferreira Letícia R. , Fernandes Mariana G. , Resende Ana Paula M. , Pereira‐Baldon Vanessa S.
Published: May 2017

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a Pilates exercise program with pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction compared to a conventional intervention in pregnant women.

Methods

Fifty primiparous women, without gestational alterations, were randomized to the Pilates group (n = 25) and control group (n = 25). Interventions for both groups consisted of twice‐weekly sessions of 1 h each during the period between the 14‐16th and 32‐34th gestational weeks. The Pilates group performed a Pilates exercises program with the addition of voluntary PFM contraction. Mat‐based Pilates exercises were performed involving movement of the upper limbs, lower limbs and trunk in all sessions. The Control group walked for 10 min and performed strengthening exercises of the lower limbs, upper limbs, and trunk with resistance from an elastic band and body weight. Each woman was evaluated by an unblinded physiotherapist before and after intervention for primary (PFM strength using a manometer) and secondary (PFM strength using Oxford Scale, endurance and repeatability) outcomes. Covariance analysis (ANCOVA) was used to compare the groups using the baseline values as a covariate.

Results

Thirty‐six women were included in the analysis. There were no differences between the groups for manometry. An increase in the PFM strength, endurance, and repeatability was only observed in the Pilates group. In addition, the Pilates group showed greater adherence to the intervention.

Conclusion

Pilates exercise program with PFM contraction is not able to change the PFM strength assessed by manometer in pregnant women, but it improved adherence to the intervention.
Effects of moisture content, wood species, and form of raw materials on fiber morphology and mechanical properties of wood fiber‐HDPE composites
Authors: Gao Xun , Li Qingde , Cheng Wanli , Han Guangping , Xuan Lihui
Published: May 2017

Use of high‐quality wood fibers as reinforcement materials in wood‐plastic composites (WPCs) significantly improves the overall performance of the resulting WPCs. This study focused on the preparation of various types of wood fibers for subsequent use in WPCs. Further, effects of moisture content, wood species, and form of raw material on the quality of prepared wood fibers and on the mechanical properties of wood fiber‐reinforced high‐density polyethylene were comprehensively investigated. The main findings indicated that the overall size of wood fibers increased significantly with the initial moisture content of raw materials; the best morphological features of fibers and the best corresponding mechanical properties of WPCs were obtained for an initial moisture content of 30 wt%. The lengths and diameters of wood fibers prepared from veneers were larger than those of fibers prepared from chips. A wood fiber diameter between 0.21 and 0.29 mm (60–80 mesh) and a length to diameter ratio between 5 and 8 yielded the best mechanical properties for the resultant products. Finally, the composites reinforced with pine fibers exhibited mechanical properties superior to those reinforced with poplar fibers. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3236–3246, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Characterisation of Pomegranate‐Husk Polyphenols and Semi‐Preparative Fractionation of Punicalagin
Authors: Aguilar‐Zárate Pedro , Wong‐Paz Jorge E. , Michel Mariela , Buenrostro‐Figueroa Juan , Díaz Hugo R. , Ascacio Juan A. , Contreras‐Esquivel Juan C. , Gutiérrez‐Sánchez Gerardo , Aguilar Cristóbal N.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Pomegranate‐husk is the main by‐product generated from the pomegranate industry. It is a potential source of compounds highly appreciated by different costumers. Punicalagin is the main compound present in pomegranate‐husk.

Objective

To characterise the pomegranate‐husk total polyphenols by HPLC‐ESI‐MS and to establish a method for the recovery of punicalagin using a medium pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC) system.

Materials and methods

The characterisation of total pomegranate‐husk polyphenols was carried out using liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Thus, 200 mg of pomegranate‐husk polyphenols were fractionated by MPLC. The isolated punicalagin was characterised by HPLC‐MS and was tested as standard reagent for the measurement of its scavenging capacity reducing DPPH and ABTS radicals.

Results

Twenty peaks were identified by analytical HPLC‐MS analysis from the pomegranate‐husk polyphenols. The main compounds were the punicalagin anomers, punicalin and ellagic acid. The MPLC method allowed three fractions to be obtained. In fraction three 39.40 ± 8.06 mg of punicalagin anomers (purity > 97.9%) were recovered. The scavenging capacity of punicalagin showed an IC50 of 109.53 and 151.50 μg/mL for DPPH and ABTS radicals, respectively.

Conclusion

The MPLC system was an excellent tool for the separation of the main ellagitannins from pomegranate husk and for the isolation of punicalagin anomers. Fraction three was rich in high purity punicalagin anomers. The IC50 was obtained for DPPH and ABTS radicals. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Symptom appraisal, help seeking, and lay consultancy for symptoms of head and neck cancer
Authors: Queenan J.A. , Gottlieb B.H. , Feldman‐Stewart D. , Hall S.F. , Irish J. , Groome P.A.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Early diagnosis is important in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients to maximize the effectiveness of the treatments and minimize the debilitation associated with both the cancer and the invasive treatments of advanced disease. Many patients present with advanced disease, and there is little understanding as to why. This study investigated patients' symptom appraisal, help seeking, and lay consultancy up to the time they first went to see a health care professional (HCP).

Methods

We interviewed 83 patients diagnosed with HNC. The study design was cross sectional and consisted of structured telephone interviews and a medical chart review. We gathered information on the participant's personal reactions to their symptoms, characteristics of their social network, and the feedback they received.

Results

We found that 18% of the participants thought that their symptoms were urgent enough to warrant further investigation. Participants rarely (6%) attributed their symptoms to cancer. Eighty‐nine percent reported that they were unaware of the early warning signs and symptoms of HNC. Fifty‐seven percent of the participants disclosed their symptoms to at least one lay consultant before seeking help from an HCP. The lay consultants were usually their spouse (77%), and the most common advice they offered was to see a doctor (76%). Lastly, 81% of the participants report that their spouse influenced their decision to see an HCP.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that patients frequently believe that their symptoms were nonurgent and that their lay consultants influence their decision to seek help from an HCP.
Factors Controlling Velocity Variations at Short‐Term, Seasonal and Multiyear Time Scales, Ritigraben Rock Glacier, Western Swiss Alps
Authors: Kenner Robert , Phillips Marcia , Beutel Jan , Hiller Martin , Limpach Philippe , Pointner Eric , Volken Martin
Published: May 2017

This study analyses the factors controlling variations in short‐term, seasonal and multiyear deformation velocity of an alpine rock glacier from data obtained over periods of 1–20 years. The Ritigraben rock glacier, in the western Swiss Alps, was monitored using tacheometry, terrestrial laser scanning, an in situ global positioning system and borehole deformation measurements. Rock glacier stratigraphy and ground temperature data were obtained from boreholes, and long‐term meteorological data (temperature, precipitation, snow water equivalent) from nearby weather stations. Shearing within a distinct water‐bearing layer represents the major component of the displacement. Short‐term accelerations and seasonal velocity patterns of the rock glacier deformation appear to have been triggered by water supply to this layer. A long‐term acceleration of the rock glacier was probably also caused by increased water supply. Permafrost temperature in the rock glacier has increased slightly since 2002, yet no direct causality could be established between this limited warming and rock glacier acceleration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.