bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of anemia on long‐term outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion
Authors: Stähli Barbara E. , Gebhard Cathérine , Gick Michael , Ferenc Miroslaw , Mashayekhi Kambis , Buettner Heinz Joachim , Neumann Franz‐Josef , Toma Aurel
Published: November 2017

Objectives

A single‐centre, observational study was performed in order to investigate the relationship between anemia and outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for chronic total occlusion (CTO).

Background

Anemia has been identified as adverse predictor in patients with coronary artery disease undergoing coronary revascularization. Data on the impact of anemia on outcomes in patients undergoing PCI for CTO lesions are lacking.

Methods

A total of 1,964 patients undergoing CTO PCI were stratified according to the presence/absence of anemia (hemoglobin of <13 g/dl for men and <12 g/dl for women). The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality. Median follow‐up was 2.6 (interquartile range 1.1‐3.1) years.

Results

Of the 1,964 patients, 297 (15.1%) had anemia. Anemic as compared to nonanemic patients had and an increased all‐cause mortality (27.9% versus 9.1%, P < 0.001), and associations remained significant after multivariable adjustments (adjusted HR 2.26, 95% CI 1.71‐2.98, P < 0.001). All‐cause mortality decreased with increasing hemoglobin tertiles (T1: 18.6%, T2: 8.6%, T3: 8.2%, log rank P < 0.001). Procedural success was associated with reduced all‐cause mortality both in anemic (21.8% versus 47.2%, adjusted HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.37‐0.93, P = 0.02) and nonanemic patients (7.8% versus 16.3%, adjusted HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.42‐0.98, P = 0.02, interaction P = 0.69).

Conclusions

Although anemia is associated with an increased all‐cause mortality in patients undergoing CTO PCI, the survival benefit associated with successful CTO recanalization is maintained.
Caliber and fitness of the axillary artery as a conduit for large‐bore cardiovascular procedures
Authors: Arnett Daniel M. , Lee James C. , Harms Michael A. , Kearney Kathleen E. , Ramos Mario , Smith Bryn M. , Anderson Emily C. , Tayal Rajiv , McCabe James M.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

We sought to describe the caliber and vascular health of the subclavian and axillary arteries as related to their potential utilization in complex cardiovascular procedures.

Background

Patients referred for advanced catheter‐based therapies frequently have lower extremity peripheral vascular disease that may prohibit the use of large bore arterial catheters. Utilization of the upper extremity peripheral vasculature is rarely considered as an alternative access strategy. This may be due in part to a lack of familiarity with the thoracic vasculature.

Methods and Results

208 consecutive patients undergoing routine CTA prior to transcatheter aortic valve replacement were retrospectively evaluated in a systematic analysis of upper and lower extremity vasculature. Minimal luminal diameters (MLDs) for the axillary arteries and iliofemoral arteries were 6.0 ± 1.1 mm and 6.6 ± 1.8 mm respectively. Compared to the iliofemoral arteries, the axillary arteries demonstrated substantially lower rates of significant stenosis (2% vs. 12%, p < 0.01) and significantly lower rates of moderate to severe calcification disease (9% vs. 64%, p < 0.01). Diabetes and tobacco use were independently associated with smaller axillary artery caliber by MLD (p < 0.01) but not with significant stenotic disease.

Conclusions

The axillary arteries are slightly smaller but less frequently diseased than the corresponding iliofemoral vessels.
Ultralow Loading Ruthenium Nanoparticles on Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Aerogel for Trifunctional Electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhu Bingjun , Qu Chong , Gao Song , Liang Zibin , Zhang Hao , Zou Ruqiang
Published: November 2017

A three‐dimensional (3 D) nitrogen‐doped graphene aerogel (NGA) with confined ultrasmall ruthenium nanoparticles (2–4 nm) was prepared through a hydrothermal reaction of graphene oxide (GO), ammonia solution, and ruthenium trichloride hydrate, followed by high‐temperature annealing and oxidation. The reactants self‐assemble into a 3 D porous structure with Ru nanoparticles embedded inside. With ultralow N and Ru contents of 2.40 and 1.21 at %, the introduction of Ru and N in the 3 D graphene aerogel gives rise to multifunctional catalytic performance in oxygen‐ and hydrogen‐involved reactions. Particularly, its performance in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) surpassed those of commercial Pt/C and RuO2 in terms of both smaller potential (1.62 V vs. RHE) to reach 10 mA cm−2 and larger current densities across the applied potential range of 1 to 2 V (vs. RHE). Structural and chemical characterization revealed that the nanoparticle size and Ru/RuO2 ratio played decisive roles in determining the aerogel's electrocatalytic performance. Hence, this study demonstrates that the synergistic effect of nanosized Ru and a porous NGA can be applied to achieve effective multifunctional electrocatalysis, for which the Ru nanoparticles can be tailored to achieve optimized performance with the lowest‐necessary doping concentration.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Mavatrep (JNJ‐39439335), a TRPV1 Antagonist in Healthy Japanese and Caucasian Men: A Double‐Blind, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled, Sequential‐Group Phase 1 Study
Authors: Manitpisitkul Prasarn , Shalayda Kevin , Russell Lucille , Sanga Panna , Solanki Bhavna , Caruso Joseph , Iwaki Yuki , Moyer John A.
Published: November 2017

This single‐center, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, sequential‐group phase 1 study evaluated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of mavatrep (JNJ‐39439335), a transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 antagonist, in healthy Japanese and caucasian subjects. In part 1, a single‐ascending‐dose study, 50 subjects (25 each healthy Japanese and caucasians) were enrolled and received a single oral dose of 10, 25, or 50 mg mavatrep. Caucasian subjects were matched to Japanese subjects with respect to age (±5 years) and body mass index (±5 kg/m2). In part 2, a multiple‐ascending‐dose study, 36 Japanese subjects were enrolled and received once‐daily oral doses of 10, 25, or 50 mg of mavatrep for 21 days. The single‐dose PK of mavatrep and its metabolites was similar in the Japanese and caucasian subjects after adjustment of body weight. Following multiple dosing in Japanese subjects, a steady‐state condition was reached in approximately 14 days. M2 and M3 are major circulating metabolites with mean exposure > 10% of mavatrep. Nonrenal clearance was the major route of elimination for mavatrep, M2, and M3. Mavatrep exhibited a long half‐life, ranging from 68 to 101 and 82–130 hours for Japanese and caucasian subjects, respectively. After single and multiple dosing, mavatrep was well tolerated. The most common adverse events observed were thermohypoesthesia, feeling cold, chills, and feeling hot. Mavatrep and its metabolites exhibited similar PK profiles after single ascending doses in healthy Japanese and caucasian men.
Comparison of Two Highly Automated ECG Algorithms for Detection of Drug‐Induced Cardiac Ion Channel Block
Authors: Brockway Marina , Fossa Anthony A. , Mason Jay W.
Published: November 2017

US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigators recently demonstrated in a crossover study that early (J‐Tpeakc) and late (Tpeak–Tend) repolarization duration can differentiate selective potassium block with a high arrhythmia risk from multichannel block with lower risk in subjects receiving dofetilide, verapamil, quinidine, or ranolazine. The purpose of this study was to determine if the findings by the FDA using their published software algorithm could be corroborated using an alternative software algorithm for the same metrics and to determine if methodological differences resulted in clinically meaningful differences in interpretation. Exposure–response relationships computed with linear mixed effects models and mean maximal effects on ECG intervals measured by the two algorithms were similar, corroborating the FDA findings, but with some differences in the modeled slopes and magnitude of changes. The alternative software resulted in an average 25% reduction in the 95% confidence intervals of the mixed effects models with generally lower Akaike Information Criterion values.
Anti‐inflammatory and analgesic activities of cupressuflavone from Cupressus macrocarpa: Impact on pro‐inflammatory mediators
Authors: Al‐Sayed Eman , Gad Haidy A. , El‐Shazly Mohamed , Abdel‐Daim Mohamed M. , Nasser Singab Abdel
Published: November 2017

Hit, Lead & Candidate Discovery

Inflammation is a complex biological process that is generally occurs in response to pathological triggers. Both neurodegenerative diseases and cancer have been linked to inflammation. The analgesic and anti‐inflammatory effects of cupressuflavone (CUF) isolated from Cupressus macrocarpa were examined. The analgesic effects of CUF (40, 80 and 160 mg/kg po) were assessed in the acetic acid‐induced writhing and hot plate models in mice with diclofenac sodium as the reference standard (100 mg/kg). CUF dose‐dependently inhibited the writhing response in mice by 25, 48, and 62%, at the three CUF doses with 160 mg/kg being equivalent to the diclofenac control. CUF dose‐dependently increased the hot plate model reaction time with a maximal effect after 120 min. In the carrageenan‐induced paw edema model of inflammation, CUF demonstrated anti‐inflammatory activity by inhibiting paw edema by 55, 60, and 64% at doses of 40, 80, and 160 mg/kg po, respectively. CUF also reduced the plasma pro‐inflammatory mediators PGE2 (44, 54, and 58%), TNF‐α (26, 37, and 53%), IL‐1β (19, 33, and 41%), and IL‐6 (32, 44, and 55%) at the three doses tested with the highest dose having similar effects to diclofenac sodium (100 mg/kg). This finding from this study indicates that CUF has both analgesic and anti‐inflammatory effects.
Salivary uric acid and C‐reactive protein associations with hypertension in Midwestern Latino preadolescents and their parents
Authors: Jones Blake L. , Elwazeer Salma , Taylor Zoe E.
Published: November 2017

Latino families face increased risk for hypertension. Serum‐based uric acid and C‐reactive protein have been linked to hypertension. However, a paucity of salivary biomarker data exists in this area for Latino families. Using salivary biomarkers enables less invasive options for biomedical and biosocial research, which is especially important among vulnerable populations facing increased health disparities. This study examined the associations between salivary uric (sUA) acid, salivary C‐reactive protein (sCRP), and hypertension among 151 participants (57 children, 57 mothers, 37 fathers) from 57 Midwestern Latino families. Participants self‐administered the salivary samples, and blood pressure was measured by researchers. Results showed sUA was associated across family members, and child hypertension was related to parents′ hypertension. sCRP was only related to sUA in fathers. Findings highlight the family‐level health connections, along with the importance for further investigations using salivary biomarkers with Latinos, and the need for a robust sUA cut‐off for hyperuricemia.
How tree species identity and diversity affect light transmittance to the understory in mature temperate forests
Authors: Sercu Bram K. , Baeten Lander , van Coillie Frieke , Martel An , Lens Luc , Verheyen Kris , Bonte Dries
Published: November 2017

Light is a key resource for plant growth and is of particular importance in forest ecosystems, because of the strong vertical structure leading to successive light interception from canopy to forest floor. Tree species differ in the quantity and heterogeneity of light they transmit. We expect decreases in both the quantity and spatial heterogeneity of light transmittance in mixed stands relative to monocultures, due to complementarity effects and niche filling. We tested the degree to which tree species identity and diversity affected, via differences in tree and shrub cover, the spatiotemporal variation in light availability before, during, and after leaf expansion. Plots with different combinations of three tree species with contrasting light transmittance were selected to obtain a diversity gradient from monocultures to three species mixtures. Light transmittance to the forest floor was measured with hemispherical photography. Increased tree diversity led to increased canopy packing and decreased spatial light heterogeneity at the forest floor in all of the time periods. During leaf expansion, light transmittance did differ between the different tree species and timing of leaf expansion might thus be an important source of variation in light regimes for understory plant species. Although light transmittance at the canopy level after leaf expansion was not measured directly, it most likely differed between tree species and decreased in mixtures due to canopy packing. A complementary shrub layer led, however, to similar light levels at the forest floor in all species combinations in our plots. Synthesis. We find that a complementary shrub layer exploits the higher light availability in particular tree species combinations. Resources at the forest floor are thus ultimately determined by the combined effect of the tree and shrub layer. Mixing species led to less heterogeneity in the amount of light, reducing abiotic niche variability.
South African Cactus Pear Seed Oil: A Comprehensive Study on 42 Spineless Burbank Opuntia ficus‐indica and Opuntia robusta Cultivars
Authors: de Wit Maryna , Hugo Arno , Shongwe Nokuthula
Published: November 2017

Cactus pear fruit seeds contain oil that can be utilized for human consumption. Forty‐two South African cultivars are evaluated over two seasons for seed oil content and fatty acid composition in an attempt to ascertain the best oil yielding cultivar. Seed oil content varied among cultivars and seasons and the yield ranged between 4.09 and 8.76% of seed mass. The unsaturated fatty acids are the most prominent and were dominated by linoleic acid, which varied between 56.86 and 65.21%, followed by oleic acid (16.44 and 22.51%), while the saturated fatty acids palmitic and stearic acid content ranged from 12.72 to 16.05% and from 2.21 to 3.39%, respectively. Cultivar and variation in rainfall have a statistically significant effect on cactus pear seed oil content and fatty acid composition. Principal Component Analysis show that certain cultivars are exclusively associated with specific characteristics. This is the most comprehensive study of the seed oil characteristics of the available cultivars in South Africa ever to be performed. The American Giant cultivar have the highest seed oil yield.

Practical Applications: In a semi‐arid country such as South Africa, the value of by‐products and waste products from a drought resistant plant such as cactus pear should be emphasized. Cactus pear seed oil is a novel and expensive essential oil. The emergence of many small‐holding farms and small‐scale processing facilities necessitated a comprehensive investigation into the oil composition of all the available cactus pear cultivars. Essential knowledge regarding cultivar choice in terms of oil‐production and specific fatty acid composition, as well as seasonal effects thereon, is generated with this research. This research indicats that the American Giant (Opuntia ficus‐indica) cultivar have the highest oil yield wheras the Roly Poly cultivar have the highest linoleic acid content. This data will enable processors to make recommendations to producers to use cultivars with optimum yield and oil quality as production target.

Cactus pear fruit seeds contain oil that can be utilized for human consumption. Forty‐two South African cultivars are evaluated over two seasons for seed oil content and fatty acid composition in an attempt to ascertain the best oil yielding cultivar.
Review: Electric field driven pumping in microfluidic device
Authors: Hossan Mohammad R. , Dutta Diganta , Islam Nazmul , Dutta Prashanta
Published: November 2017

Pumping of fluids with precise control is one of the key components in a microfluidic device. The electric field has been used as one of the most popular and efficient nonmechanical pumping mechanism to transport fluids in microchannels from the very early stage of microfluidic technology development. This review presents fundamental physics and theories of the different microscale phenomena that arise due to the application of an electric field in fluids, which can be applied for pumping of fluids in microdevices. Specific mechanisms considered in this report are electroosmosis, AC electroosmosis, AC electrothermal, induced charge electroosmosis, traveling wave dielectrophoresis, and liquid dielectrophoresis. Each phenomenon is discussed systematically with theoretical rigor and role of relevant key parameters are identified for pumping in microdevices. We specifically discussed the electric field driven body force term for each phenomenon using generalized Maxwell stress tensor as well as simplified effective dipole moment based method. Both experimental and theoretical works by several researchers are highlighted in this article for each electric field driven pumping mechanism. The detailed understanding of these phenomena and relevant key parameters are critical for better utilization, modulation, and selection of appropriate phenomenon for efficient pumping in a specific microfluidic application.
DNA damage and circulating cell free DNA in greenhouse workers exposed to pesticides
Authors: Çayir Akin , Coskun Mahmut , Coskun Munevver , Cobanoglu Hayal
Published: November 2017

Pesticides widely used in agriculture and other applications have been linked to cancer and other diseases through several potential mechanisms. The goals of this study were to assess DNA damage in lymphocytes by the cytokinesis‐block micronucleus assay (CBMN), and to measure circulating cell free DNA (ccf‐DNA) in the blood of pesticide‐exposed greenhouse workers and matched controls living in the same area. CBMN was applied to peripheral blood lymphocyte samples taken at different times (spring and autumn) for each individual. We measured plasma ccf‐DNA levels using a Qubit® fluorometer. The results indicated that the MNL, BNMN, and NBUDs frequencies of pesticide‐exposed individuals were significantly higher than non‐exposed individuals. Apart from MNL, BNMN and CBPI, a season‐related effect was found for the NPB and NBUD frequencies. With MNL and BNMN as the dependent variables, multiple regression analysis showed that age and gender affected MN formation. The ccf‐DNA level in the pesticide‐exposed group was significantly higher than the control group. There was no seasonal variation regarding the free DNA amount. Ccf‐DNA in males was found to be higher than females. The MNL, BNMN, NPB, and CBPI did not correlate with the ccf‐DNA amount. It can be concluded that pesticide exposure can modulate DNA integrity via different mechanisms. Also, elevated levels of ccf‐DNA could be recommended as a biomarker of pesticide exposure. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 59:161–169, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comprehensive study of three novel cases of TFEB‐amplified renal cell carcinoma and review of the literature: Evidence for a specific entity with poor outcome
Authors: Mendel Lionel , Ambrosetti Damien , Bodokh Yohan , Ngo‐Mai Mélanie , Durand Matthieu , Simbsler‐Michel Cécile , Delhorbe Mickael , Amiel Jean , Pedeutour Florence
Published: November 2017

The first case of TFEB‐amplified renal cell carcinoma was published in 2014. Since then, 29 additional cases have been described. The prognostic and therapeutic implications of this rare entity remain to be determined. We describe here the clinical, histological, and genetic features of three novel cases, and the first complete literature review. Four tumors were examined from three patients selected from the large collection of genetically characterized renal tumors in our institution. The pathological and immunohistochemical features were centrally reviewed by a uropathologist. Quantitative and structural genomic abnormalities were analyzed using comparative genomic hybridization, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and next generation sequencing. The three cases showed high‐level amplification but no translocation of TFEB. Histologically, two tumors showed a papillary or pseudopapillary architecture. They did not show similarities with renal cell carcinoma harboring translocation of TFEB. The tumors were locally advanced high‐grade lesions. They exhibited a metastatic course, which was rapidly leading to death in one patient. A second patient developed metastatic disease that did not respond to four lines of targeted treatments. The third patient had a protracted history of pulmonary and cardiac metastases. Complete clinical and biological data were examined and compared to those of the reported cases. Within the classification of renal tumors, TFEB‐amplified renal cell carcinoma may constitute a novel entity characterized histologically by high‐grade, papillary or pseudopapillary architecture, and necrotic remodeling and clinically by a poor outcome. Its pathogenesis has to be further characterized to develop appropriate targeted therapy.
Flexible next‐generation robotic surgical system for transoral endoscopic hypopharyngectomy: A comparative preclinical study
Authors: Tateya Ichiro , Koh Yoon Woo , Tsang Raymond K. , Hong Steven S. , Uozumi Ryuji , Kishimoto Yo , Sugimoto Taro , Holsinger F. Christopher
Published: November 2017

Background

The purpose of this cadaveric study was to determine the efficacy of a flexible, next‐generation robotic surgical system for transoral robotic hypopharyngectomy.

Methods

A comparative evaluation study of the flexible versus rigid robotic surgical systems for the hypopharynx was conducted using 3 cadavers. Endpoints for assessment were visualization of the hypopharynx, access to the hypopharynx, and difficulty of dissection. Hypopharyngectomy was performed on 3 other cadavers using the da Vinci Sp surgical system.

Results

Access to the apex of the pyriform sinus and the esophageal inlet was easier with the da Vinci Sp than with the da Vinci Si. Dissection with the da Vinci Sp was easier in all areas of the hypopharynx than with the da Vinci Si. Robotic hypopharyngectomy was successfully completed on all cadavers using the da Vinci Sp surgical system.

Conclusion

Preclinical testing in human cadavers suggests that flexible robotic surgery may facilitate successful transoral hypopharyngectomy.
Cisplatin‐conjugated gold nanoparticles as a theranostic agent for head and neck cancer
Authors: Davidi Erez Shmuel , Dreifuss Tamar , Motiei Menachem , Shai Eliezer , Bragilovski Dimitri , Lubimov Leon , Kindler Marc Jose Jonathan , Popovtzer Aron , Don Jeremy , Popovtzer Rachela
Published: November 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to develop a nanoplatform, which simultaneously acts as radiosensitizer, drug carrier, and tumor imaging agent for head and neck cancer.

Methods

We synthesized 20 nm gold nanoparticles, coated with glucose and cisplatin (CG‐GNPs). Their penetration into tumor cells and their cellular toxicity were evaluated in vitro. In vivo experiments were conducted to evaluate their impact on tumor growth and their imaging capabilities.

Results

The CG‐GNPs showed efficient penetration into tumor cells and similar cellular toxicity as cisplatin alone. Combined with radiation, CG‐GNPs led to greater tumor reduction than that of radiation alone and radiation with free cisplatin. The CG‐GNPs also demonstrated efficient tumor imaging capabilities.

Conclusion

Our CG‐GNPs have a great potential to increase antitumor effect, overcome resistance to chemotherapeutics and radiation, and allow imaging‐guided therapy.
Prognostic implication of fluorine‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in patients with recurrent papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Kang Ji‐Hun , Jung Da‐Woon , Pak Kyoung‐June , Kim In‐Ju , Kim Hak‐Jin , Cho Jae‐Keun , Shin Sung‐Chan , Wang Soo‐Geun , Lee Byung‐Joo
Published: November 2017

Background

Fluorine‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/CT (18F‐FDG PET/CT) has been widely accepted as an effective method for detecting recurrent papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) in patients with increased serum thyroglobulin (Tg) or Tg antibody (TgAb) levels and negative whole‐body scintigraphy (WBS) results. The role of WBS as a diagnostic tool in detecting recurrence has relatively decreased recently. However, only a few studies have examined the usefulness of 18F‐FDG PET/CT for evaluating patients with recurrent PTC, regardless of the WBS results. The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate the diagnostic value and prognostic role of 18F‐FDG PET/CT for patients with recurrent PTC, irrespective of their WBS results.

Methods

Sixty‐six patients with locoregional recurrent PTC who underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT and neck CT within 6 months before surgical treatment were included in this retrospective analysis. Imaging findings were compared with postoperative histopathologic results. The diagnostic values of 18F‐FDG PET/CT and neck CT were compared according to the serum Tg and TgAb levels and cervical levels. Each patient's status at the last follow‐up was also reviewed, and survival probabilities were estimated using the Kaplan‐Meier plot.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of 18F‐FDG PET/CT for the entire patient group were 38.5%, 90.2%, and 58.3%, respectively. The corresponding neck CT values were 55.0%, 85.7%, and 66.7%, respectively. According to the serum Tg and TgAb levels, except for the specificity, most diagnostic values of 18F‐FDG PET/CT were worse than those of the neck CTs, with or without statistical significance. For the high maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) group (SUVmax >10) and the low SUVmax group, the median locoregional disease‐free survival times were 33.3 months and 81.8 months, respectively (P < .001).

Conclusion

The diagnostic value of 18F‐FDG PET/CT for localizing recurrent lesions was worse than that of the neck CT, irrespective of the WBS results. However, patients with a higher SUVmax showed a significantly worse prognosis than did those with a lower SUVmax. Therefore, we suggest that, in patients with recurrent PTC, 18F‐FDG PET/CT should be considered for prognostication rather than diagnosis.
Patterns of vascularization and surgical morbidity in juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma: A case series, systematic review, and meta‐analysis
Authors: Overdevest Jonathan B. , Amans Matthew R. , Zaki Peter , Pletcher Steven D. , El‐Sayed Ivan H.
Published: November 2017

Background

Vascular patterns of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) are poorly defined. We performed both institutional and systematic literature reviews to characterize the relationship between arterial supply patterns of JNA with intraoperative blood loss and tumor recurrence.

Methods

A retrospective review of 26 patients with JNA treated at our institution from 1995 to 2015 with available angiograms, and systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of 828 JNA cases undergoing angiographic embolization published between 1995 and 2015 were completed per Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

The systematic review (828 cases) found internal carotid artery (ICA) supply in 35.6% of tumors, and 30.8% of tumors received bilateral vascular supply. Our institutional data (n = 26) indicated 69% had bilateral supply. Meta‐analysis of data from 5 studies demonstrated ICA/bilateral arterial supply is predictive of increased operative blood loss (P < .01).

Conclusion

Complex vascular contributions to JNA are frequent, underreported, and portends increased blood loss. This information can justifiably be included in staging systems to enhance prognostic counseling of patients.
Efficiency of electrochemotherapy with reduced bleomycin dose in the treatment of nonmelanoma head and neck skin cancer: Preliminary results
Authors: Groselj Ales , Bosnjak Masa , Strojan Primoz , Krzan Mojca , Cemazar Maja , Sersa Gregor
Published: November 2017

Background

In the present study, effectiveness of electrochemotherapy was compared in patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) of the head and neck using standard and reduced doses of bleomycin.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients older than 65 years were prospectively treated with electrochemotherapy for nonmelanoma head and neck skin cancer. In the experimental group (n = 12 patients; 24 lesions), reduced bleomycin doses (10 000 IU/m2) were used. In the control group (n = 16 patients; 28 lesions), the standard bleomycin doses (15 000 IU/m2) were used. Tumor responses and side effects were monitored. These two groups were pair matched for the characteristics of patients (age, gender) and their tumors (diameter, histology type, recurrent lesions).

Results

Complete tumor response at 2 months post‐electrochemotherapy with the reduced bleomycin dose was 100% and with the standard bleomycin dose it was 96%. No statistically significant difference regarding skin toxicity was observed between the 2 groups (P = .20). Skin toxicity of grade 3 or less was recorded only in the control group (7% of treated lesions).

Conclusion

Presented results show the comparable antitumor effectiveness of electrochemotherapy when using standard or reduced bleomycin dose in elderly patients with nonmelanoma head and neck skin cancer.
Long‐term outcomes after reirradiation in nasopharyngeal carcinoma with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Leong Yiat Horng , Soon Yu Yang , Lee Khai Mun , Wong Lea Choung , Tham Ivan Weng Keong , Ho Francis Cho Hao
Published: November 2017

Background

The purpose of this clinical review was to summate the published data for the long‐term outcomes of reirradiation with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for locally recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

We searched biomedical literature databases for eligible studies published from January 2005 to September 2016. Outcomes of interests were 5‐year local failure‐free survival, distant failure‐free survival, overall survival (OS), and toxicities. Meta‐analysis was performed using a random effects model.

Results

We found 4 comparative and 8 noncomparative studies (n = 1768). Reirradiation was associated with pooled event rates of 72% (95% confidence interval [CI] 66%‐78%; I2 = 84%), 85% (95% CI 82%‐88%; I2 = 69%), and 41% (95% CI 36%‐47%; I2 = 80%) for 5‐year local failure‐free survival, distant failure‐free survival, and OS, respectively, with significant heterogeneity among the study results. The pooled event rate for grade 5 toxicities was 33% (95% CI 30%‐35%; I2 = 0%) with minimal heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Reirradiation with IMRT for locally recurrent NPC could confer long‐term disease control and survival but is associated with significant mortality.
Sex‐specific analysis post‐liver transplantation in hemochromatosis with aplastic anemia and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Adams Paul , Howlett Christopher , Xenocostas Anargyros , Chakrabarti Subrata
Published: November 2017

A 42‐year‐old man with hemochromatosis and cirrhosis developed aplastic anemia. He underwent liver transplantation from a female donor and splenectomy, and his aplastic anemia spontaneously resolved. A bone marrow examination 6 months after the liver transplant showed 17.5% female cells. He did well for 13 years without the need for any blood product support but then developed bone pain and was found to have metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma in the vertebral bodies. Molecular analysis demonstrated that the tumor cells were from his original liver. No primary liver tumor was identified in the explant. The case demonstrates the application of fluorescent in situ hybridization with X and Y chromosome‐specific probes to study chimerism and tumor origin after liver transplantation between individuals of different sex. (Hepatology Communications 2018;2:13–15)
Assessment of cerebral blood perfusion changes after neurorehabilitation therapy in patients with middle cerebral artery infarction: An acetazolamide‐challenged SPECT study
Authors: Jang Kyung‐Sool , Im Jooyeon J. , Chung Yong‐An , Chung Sung‐Woo , Jeong Hyeonseok S. , Kim Min‐Wook
Published: November 2017

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Although neuroimaging has been used to examine brain changes related to recovery from stroke, cerebral perfusion changes after rehabilitation have yet to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) changes and their associations with gross motor functions after neurorehabilitation therapy in stroke patients. A total of 7 patients with middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction received conventional neurorehabilitation therapy twice per day for 4‐6 weeks on admission. Brain perfusion images were acquired before and after the therapy using acetazolamide‐challenged single photon emission computed tomography. A whole‐brain voxel‐wise analysis found increased rCBF in the contralesional prefrontal, precentral, and postcentral cortical areas and decreased rCBF in the ipsilesional insula, posterior orbital gyrus, and central operculum. Moreover, a region of interest analysis revealed that rCBF of the ipsilesional basal ganglia was positively correlated with motor function at baseline and follow‐up, and perfusion changes in the ipsilesional basal ganglia was positively correlated with changes in motor function. These findings suggest that the contralesional prefrontal and sensorimotor cortex may play compensatory roles during the motor recovery and that perfusion in the ipsilesional basal ganglia is closely associated not only with current functional status but also with clinical improvement after neurorehabilitation therapy in patients with MCA infarction. Further studies with larger sample size are warranted to investigate whether assessment of cerebral perfusion may be clinically useful in rehabilitation of stroke patients.
Development of computer‐aided approach for brain tumor detection using random forest classifier
Authors: Anitha R. , Siva Sundhara Raja D.
Published: November 2017

The nonlinear development of cells in brain region forms the abnormal patterns in brain in the form of tumors. It is necessary to detect and diagnose the brain tumors in an automated manner using computer‐aided approaches at large population areas. The noises in brain magnetic resonance image is detected and reduced as preprocessing steps and then grey level co‐occurrence matrix are now extracted from the preprocessed brain image. In this article, random forest classifier‐based brain tumor detection and segmentation methodology is proposed to classify the brain image into normal or abnormal. The proposed brain tumor detection and segmentation system is analyzed in terms of sensitivity, specificity, false‐positive rate, false‐negative rate, likelihood ratio positive, and likelihood ratio negative.
Intensity‐curvature functional‐based digital high‐pass filters
Authors: Ciulla Carlo , Rechkoska Shikoska Ustijana , Veljanovski Dimitar , Risteski Filip A.
Published: November 2017

The intensity‐curvature functional (ICF) of a model polynomial function is defined on a pixel‐by‐pixel basis by the ratio between the intensity‐curvature term before interpolation and the intensity‐curvature term after interpolation. Through the comparison with the traditional high‐pass filter (HPF), this work presents evidence that the ICFs of three model polynomial functions can be tuned as HPFs. The evidence consists of the mathematical characterization of the ICF‐based HPFs, qualitative comparisons in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the human brain, and the determination of the finite impulse response (FIR) of the filters. The ICF‐based HPFs can remove periodic noise in the low‐frequency band.
Broadcasting strategies in 6TiSCH networks
Authors: Vučinić Mališa , Watteyne Thomas , Vilajosana Xavier
Published: November 2017

We consider IPv6‐enabled networks that run on top of the time‐slotted channel hopping mode of IEEE802.15.4 (6TiSCH). The ongoing discussions in the standardization community concern the network formation process and the definition of a bootstrapping protocol by which a new mote is admitted into the network. Because the bootstrapping traffic uses the same shared slots as the network broadcasts, the key to the optimal performance of the network formation process lays in the optimization of the network broadcasting strategy. The problem boils down to the issue of stabilizing slotted Aloha. To do so, we adapt a broadcast algorithm to the specifics of 6TiSCH networks. By simulation, we evaluate the optimal broadcast transmission probability in the network. We answer the open questions in the IETF 6TiSCH standardization community that concern the performance of the network formation process for the optimal values of transmission probability. As the main contribution of the letter, we provide network administrators with a set of values that allow the formation of dense networks.
Impact of body fat percentage change on future diabetes in subjects with normal glucose tolerance
Authors: Zhao Tianxue , Lin Ziwei , Zhu Hui , Wang Chen , Jia Weiping
Published: November 2017

The aim of the work was to determine the effect of body fat change on risk of diabetes in normal glucose tolerance (NGT) population. A total of 1,857 NGT subjects were included and followed up for an average period of 44.57 months. Body fat percentage (BF%) was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Subjects were grouped based on the BF% and/or body mass index (BMI) state. Among all subjects, 28 developed diabetes after follow‐up. Compared with subjects with stable normal BF% (control), subjects who became obesity at follow‐up were defects in insulin secretion and had a higher risk of developing diabetes (7.102, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.740–28.993), while no difference in diabetic risk could be viewed between subjects with abnormal BF% at baseline but normal at the end of follow‐up and control subjects after adjustment of confounding factors. Moreover, compared with those keeping normal BF% and BMI both at baseline and follow‐up, subjects who had normal BMI at baseline and follow‐up, but abnormal BF% at baseline or/and follow‐up still had a higher risk to develop diabetes (4.790, 95% CI 1.061–21.621), while those with normal BF% at baseline and follow‐up, but abnormal BMI at baseline or/and follow‐up had not. Subjects from normal BF% at baseline to obese at follow‐up are associated with an increased risk of diabetes. Maintaining normal body fat is more relevant than BMI in preventing diabetes. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(12):947–955, 2017
The taste of toxicity: A quantitative analysis of bitter and toxic molecules
Authors: Nissim Ido , Dagan‐Wiener Ayana , Niv Masha Y.
Published: November 2017

The role of bitter taste—one of the few basic taste modalities—is commonly assumed to signal toxicity and alert animals against consuming harmful compounds. However, it is known that some toxic compounds are not bitter and that many bitter compounds have negligible toxicity while having important health benefits. Here we apply a quantitative analysis of the chemical space to shed light on the bitterness‐toxicity relationship. Using the BitterDB dataset of bitter molecules, The BitterPredict prediction tool, and datasets of toxic compounds, we quantify the identity and similarity between bitter and toxic compounds. About 60% of the bitter compounds have documented toxicity and only 56% of the toxic compounds are known or predicted to be bitter. The LD50 value distributions suggest that most of the bitter compounds are not very toxic, but there is a somewhat higher chance of toxicity for known bitter compounds compared to known nonbitter ones. Flavonoids and alpha acids are more common in the bitter dataset compared with the toxic dataset. In contrast, alkaloids are more common in the toxic datasets compared to the bitter dataset. Interestingly, no trend linking LD50 values with the number of activated bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) subtypes is apparent in the currently available data. This is in accord with the newly discovered expression of TAS2Rs in several extra‐oral tissues, in which they might be activated by yet unknown endogenous ligands and play non‐gustatory physiological roles. These results suggest that bitter taste is not a very reliable marker for toxicity, and is likely to have other physiological roles. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(12):938–946, 2017
Evaluation of a bioengineered construct for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Ayala Perla , Dai Erbin , Hawes Michael , Liu Liying , Chaudhuri Ovijit , Haller Carolyn A. , Mooney David J. , Chaikof Elliot L.
Published: November 2017

Effective biomaterial options for tissue repair and regeneration are limited. Current biologic meshes are derived from different tissue sources and are generally sold as decellularized tissues. This work evaluated two collagen based bioengineered constructs and a commercial product in a model of abdominal full thickness defect repair. To prepare the bioengineered construct, collagen type 1 from porcine skin was isolated using an acid solubilization method. After purification, the collagen was formed into collagen sheets that were physically bonded to form a mechanically robust construct that was subsequently laser micropatterned with pores as a means to promote tissue integration (collagen only construct). A second engineered construct consisted of the aforementioned collagen construct embedded in an RGD‐functionalized alginate gel that serves as a bioactive interface (collagen‐alginate construct). The commercial product is a biologic mesh derived from bovine pericardium (Veritas®). We observed enhanced vascularization in the midportion of the engineered collagen‐alginate construct 2 weeks after implantation. Overall, the performance of the bioengineered constructs was similar to that of the commercial product with comparable integration strength at 8 weeks. Bioengineered constructs derived from monomeric collagen demonstrate promise for a variety of load bearing applications in tissue engineering. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 2345–2354, 2018.
Automated red blood cell exchange in preparation for filgrastim mobilization of autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic progenitor cells in a patient with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Zhao Yong , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Linden Jeanne , St. Pierre Patricia , Cerny Jan , Vauthrin Michelle , Greene Mindy , Weinstein Robert
Published: November 2017

Increasing survival of patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) well into adulthood results in a rising likelihood of developing hematological malignancy. High‐dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) rescue is standard of care for several hematological malignancies, but the risk of severe or life‐threatening vaso‐occlusive phenomena during filgrastim mobilization of HPC for collection poses a potential barrier to this approach. We report the use of automated red cell exchange in preparation for filgrastim mobilization in a patient with homozygous SCA. Red cell exchange was repeated just prior to high‐dose chemotherapy to mitigate the need for red cell transfusion during bone marrow reconstitution. The patient experienced no vaso‐occlusive phenomena throughout the entire episode of care and did not become iron overloaded. This approach should be considered for all patients with homozygous or compound heterozygous sickle cell disease who are candidates for auto‐HPC rescue therapy.
MicroRNA‐329 inhibits cell proliferation and tumor growth while facilitates apoptosis via negative regulation of KDM1A in gastric cancer
Authors: Cai Lisheng , Chen Qiuxian , Fang Shunyong , Lian Mingqiao , Cai Mingzhi
Published: November 2017

Altered expression of microRNA (miRNA) is strongly implicated in gastric cancer (GC). Here, we demonstrated a decreased expression of miRNA‐329 in GC. Then we explored the regulatory mechanisms responsible for its effect on GC cells. GC tissues and their adjacent non‐tumor tissues were collected. Complete follow‐up was updated. A series of inhibitors, mimics, and siRNA against KDM1A were introduced to validate regulatory mechanisms for miR‐497 and KDM1A in BGC‐823 cells. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot assay were employed for evaluating the expressions of miRNA‐329, KDM1A, H3K4me1, and H3K4me2. Cell proliferation, cycle progression, and apoptosis were assessed by means of an MTT assay and flow cytometry. Cell colony formation was assessed. uman gastric cancer xenotransplanted into nude mice was studied. As opposed to adjacent tissues and gastritis tissues, miRNA‐329 was highly expressed and KDM1A was low expressed in GC tissues. The patients with high miRNA‐329 expression or low KDM1A expression had longer survival periods. The miRNA‐329 mimics and siRNA against KDM1A decreased KDM1A expression and increased H3K4me1 and H3K4me2 expressions. Forced expression of miRNA‐329 in gastric cancer cells significantly promotes their capacity of apoptosis but reduces proliferation, migration, and invasion. KDM1A is a direct downstream target for miRNA‐329. In a nude mouse subcutaneous tumor system, in vivo tumor growth of BGC‐823 was significantly inhibited after treatment of miRNA‐329 mimics or siRNA against KDM1A. We conclude that miRNA‐329 functions as a tumor suppressor in GC, which could be achieved via transcriptional suppression of KDM1A.
Hepatocyte‐generated 27‐hydroxycholesterol promotes the growth of melanoma by activation of estrogen receptor alpha
Authors: Tian Wei , Pang Wenxiao , Ge Yao , He Xiaomeng , Wang Duowei , Li Xianjing , Hou Hui , Zhou Dewang , Feng Shuang , Chen Zhen , Yang Yong
Published: November 2017

Cholesterol plays an important role in maintaining normal physiological function of human body. However, excessive intake will induce a series of diseases including cancer. For melanoma, the relationship between hypercholesterolemia and its incidence remains unknown. The cholesterol metabolite 27‐hydroxy cholesterol (27‐HC) catalyzed by CYP27A1 has been reported to activate estrogen receptor (ER). As studies have indicated that melanoma expresses ER, we designed experiments to explore whether 27‐HC could link hypercholesterolemia and melanoma. In this study, hepatocyte‐specific CYP27A1−/− mice were generated by CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The results revealed that high‐cholesterol diet induced metabolism disorder and promoted the melanoma growth through 27‐HC. Further study found that 27‐HC promoted the growth of melanoma cells by activating ERα and eliciting the AKT and MAPK signaling pathway. This study puts forward the important role of 27‐HC in the development of melanoma for the first time, links hypercholesterolemia with melanoma progression. The research also provides the rationale for the use of tamoxifen in melanoma therapy. The levels of 27‐HC in blood could act as a novel biomarker for tamoxifen treatment in melanoma patients.