bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Flux Tracking With a Distributed Hydrological Model to Quantify Controls on the Spatio‐temporal Variability of Transit Time Distributions
Authors: Remondi Federica , Kirchner James W. , Burlando Paolo , Fatichi Simone
Published: April 2018

Water transit times and flow pathways are crucial elements in characterizing catchment hydrologic response. Understanding their variability in space and time sheds light on the link between discharge formation and water quality at the catchment scale. Here, we introduce a novel modeling framework to explore water transport mechanisms using the Hafren catchment in Wales (UK) as a case study. We show that a fully distributed hydrological model coupled with a transport component for conservative tracers is useful in analyzing how hydrometeorological conditions and spatial heterogeneity may affect water transit times and age distributions in a real catchment. We use the model to track the paths of water parcels that entered the catchment as rainfall over 2 years, labeling each day of rain individually. There is a reasonable agreement between tracer simulations and observations, suggesting that dynamic transit time distributions (TTDs) both forward and backward in time can be approximated using a high spatial and temporal resolution hydrochemical model, without assuming a priori any transit and storage selection functions at the catchment scale. TTDs are quantified for the modeled internal dynamics of the study catchment. TTDs conditional on a given rainfall time are mostly correlated to the season in which the rain event occurs, whereas TTDs conditional on a given exit time are mostly affected by catchment wetness. When TTDs for individual rainfall events are re‐scaled as functions of cumulative discharge, they collapse around a single common distribution, suggesting a potential characteristic catchment function.
Shale Gas Well, Hydraulic Fracturing, and Formation Data to Support Modeling of Gas and Water Flow in Shale Formations
Authors: Edwards Ryan W. J. , Celia Michael A.
Published: April 2018

The potential for shale gas development and hydraulic fracturing to cause subsurface water contamination has prompted a number of modeling studies to assess the risk. A significant impediment for conducting robust modeling is the lack of comprehensive publicly available information and data about the properties of shale formations, shale wells, the process of hydraulic fracturing, and properties of the hydraulic fractures. We have collated a substantial amount of these data that are relevant for modeling multiphase flow of water and gas in shale gas formations. We summarize these data and their sources in tabulated form.
Using In‐Situ Optical Sensors to Understand the Biogeochemistry of Dissolved Organic Matter Across a Stream Network
Authors: Wymore Adam S. , Potter Jody , Rodríguez‐Cardona Bianca , McDowell William H.
Published: April 2018

The advent of high‐frequency in situ optical sensors provides new opportunities to study the biogeochemistry of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in aquatic ecosystems. We used fDOM (fluorescent dissolved organic matter) to examine the spatial and temporal variability in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) across a heterogeneous stream network that varies in
concentration. Across the ten study streams fDOM explained twice the variability in the concentration of DOC (r2 = 0.82) compared to DON (r2 = 0.39), which suggests that the N‐rich fraction of DOM is either more variable in its sources or more bioreactive than the more stable C‐rich fraction. Among sites, DON molar fluorescence was approximately 3x more variable than DOC molar fluorescence and was correlated with changes in inorganic N, indicating that DON is both more variable in composition as well as highly responsive to changes in inorganic N. Laboratory results also indicate that the fDOM sensors we used perform as well as the excitation‐emission wavelength pair generally referred to as the “tryptophan‐like” peak when measured under laboratory conditions. However, since neither the field sensor not the laboratory measurements explained a large percentage of variation in DON concentrations, challenges still remain for monitoring the ambient pool of dissolved organic nitrogen. Sensor networks provide new insights into the potential reactivity of DOM and the variability in DOC and DON biogeochemistry across sites. These insights are needed to build spatially explicit models describing organic matter dynamics and water quality.
Anatomy lesson of the brain and cerebral membranes captured on canvas by Rembrandt in 1656
Authors: IJpma F F A , van Gulik T M
Published: April 2018

Published online in Wiley Online Library (www.bjs.co.uk). DOI: 10.1002/bjs.10610

The Anatomy Lesson of Jan Deijman, painted by Rembrandt in 1656, is one of the most extraordinary historical paintings recording an anatomical demonstration of the brain and the cerebral membranes. This painting belongs to the series of group portraits made for the Amsterdam Guild of Surgeons in the 17th and 18th centuries. Unfortunately, the painting was seriously damaged by a fire in the boardroom of the Surgeons' Guild in 1723. The original painting once measured at least five times the size of what is left of it today after large pieces of burned canvas had to be removed during the restoration process. Lying on the dissection table is the body of an executed criminal. Doctor Deijman, lecturer in anatomy of the Surgeons' Guild, is standing behind the corpse while performing the anatomical dissection. The abdominal organs have been removed, and the brain and cerebral membranes are about to be dissected. The nature of the depicted anatomical structures was assessed recently. This revealed that, by showing the falx cerebri, Rembrandt at the same time probably concealed a memento mori message in his masterpiece.

Read more about the stories behind this masterpiece in an essay  online.
Formation of Polymeric Particles by Direct Polymerization on the Surface of a Supramolecular Template
Authors: Li Mao , Zellermann Elio , Schmuck Carsten
Published: April 2018

Formation of polymeric materials on the surface of supramolecular assemblies is rather challenging because of the often weak noncovalent interactions between the self‐assembled template and the monomers before polymerization. We herein show that the introduction of a supramolecular anion recognition motif, the guanidiniocarbonyl pyrrole cation (GCP), into a short Fmoc‐dipeptide 1 leads to self‐assembled spherical nanoparticles in aqueous solution. Negatively charged diacetylene monomers can be attached onto the surface of these nanoparticles, which, after UV polymerization, leads to the formation of a polymer shell around the self‐assembled template. The hybrid supramolecular and polymeric nanoparticles demonstrate intriguing thermal hysteresis phenomena. The template nanoparticles could be disassembled upon treatment with organic base, which cleaved the Fmoc moiety on 1. This strategy thus showed that a supramolecular anion recognition motif allows the post‐assembly formation of polymeric nanomaterials from anionic monomers around a cationic self‐assembled template.
Partikeltechnologie
Authors: Teipel Ulrich , Türk Michael
Published: April 2018

No abstract.
Exact Particle Size and Shape Analysis in One Instrument: Combination of Static Light Scattering and Dynamic Image Analysis
Authors: Schleife Frederik , Klank Dietmar , Oetzel Christian
Published: April 2018

Bei der Bestimmung der Partikelgrößenverteilung wird häufig Laserbeugung eingesetzt. Neben den vielen Vorteilen dieser Methode, wie kurze Messdauer und breiter Messbereich, gibt es jedoch auch Schwächen. So zeigen sich besonders bei sehr breiten Verteilungen signifikante, statistische Ungenauigkeiten. Mit dem Bettersizer S3 Plus konnte erstmals gleichzeitig die Partikelgrößenverteilung von Nanometer‐, Mikrometer‐ und Millimeterteilchen exakt bestimmt und Einzelteilcheninformationen über das Überkorn und Agglomerationsphänomene gewonnen werden. Die Vorteile der Kombination von statischer Lichtstreuung mit dynamischer Bildanalyse werden anhand eines Beispiels demonstriert.
Efficient and Stable Inverted Planar Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Triphenylamine Hole‐Transporting Material
Authors: Chen Rui , Bu Tongle , Li Jing , Li Wei , Zhou Peng , Liu Xueping , Ku Zhiliang , Zhong Jie , Peng Yong , Huang Fuzhi , Cheng Yi‐Bing , Fu Zhengyi
Published: April 2018

Inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with a p‐i‐n structure have attracted great attention. Normally, inorganic p‐type metal oxides or polymers are used as the hole‐transport material (HTM), a vital component in the inverted PSCs. However, this type of HTM often requires high processing temperatures and/or high costs. On the other hand, a commonly used organic HTM, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), is sensitive to humidity and thus affects the stability of the PSCs. Herein, we employ a small molecule, 4,4′,4′′‐tris(N‐3‐methylphenyl‐N‐phenylamino) triphenylamine (m‐MTDATA) to replace PEDOT:PSS as a new HTM for inverted PSCs. Compared to a PEDOT:PSS‐based device, m‐MTDATA‐based PSCs exhibit enhanced performance. The highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) was notably improved from 13.44 % (PEDOT:PSS) to 18.12 % (m‐MTDATA), suggesting that m‐MTDATA could be an efficient HTM to achieve high performance inverted PSCs. Furthermore, the m‐MTDATA‐based device demonstrated improved stability (retaining 90 % PCE) under ambient conditions over 1000 h compared with the PEDOT:PSS‐based devices (retaining 40 % PCE).
Cyto‐morphologic spectrum of thyroid lesions in children
Authors: Pathak Priya , Sharma Pooja , Daga Aditi , Sharma Sonal
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is routinely used in triaging thyroid lesions in adults. However, role of FNA in pediatric thyroid lesions is less studied.

Aim and objective

To study the cyto‐morphologic spectrum of thyroid lesions in pediatric population.

Materials and methods

A retrospective analysis (duration‐6 years) of thyroid FNA for patients who were 18 years or younger was conducted. The aspirates were classified according to the Bethesda System for Reporting Cytopathology.

Results

A total of 2716 thyroid aspirates were reviewed, out of which 327 (12%) were pediatric thyroid FNAs performed on 301 patients. Of these 256 (85%) were females and 45 (15%) were male patients. Aspirates were classified as follows: Nondiagnostic—30 (10%), Benign—260 (86%), Atypia of undetermined significance—6 (2%), Suspicious of follicular neoplasm—0 (0%), Suspicious of malignancy—0 (0%), Malignant—5 (2%). Out of the 253 benign lesions, 153 (58%) were spectrum of colloid goitre, 106 (42%) were Lymphocytic thyroiditis and 1(0.5%) was granulomatous thyroiditis (0.5%).

Conclusion

Thyroid disorders are fairly common in children. Majority of these are benign in nature of which most common are spectrum of colloid goitre. With the benefits of being a noninvasive procedure and cost effective, FNA is a reliable method for screening and diagnosis of thyroid lesions in pediatric population.
Ecological momentary assessment of maladaptive eating in children and adolescents with overweight or obesity
Authors: Goldschmidt Andrea B. , Smith Kathryn E. , Crosby Ross D. , Boyd Hope K. , Dougherty Elizabeth , Engel Scott G. , Haedt‐Matt Alissa
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Contextual factors related to maladaptive eating behavior in youth with overweight/obesity are poorly understood. This pilot study sought to elucidate immediate internal and external cues related to perceptions of overeating and loss of control (LOC) over eating in a heterogeneous sample of children and adolescents with overweight/obesity assessed in their natural environments.

Method

Community‐based youth [N = 40; 55% female (n = 22)], aged 8–14 y (M age = 11.2 ± 1.9 y), with overweight/obesity (M z‐BMI = 2.07 ± 0.49) reported on all eating episodes and their physiological, environmental, affective, and interpersonal antecedents and correlates via ecological momentary assessment over a 2‐week period. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess the relationship between contextual variables and degree of overeating and LOC.

Results

Eating occasions involving greater food hedonics (i.e., perceived palatability of food being consumed) were associated with greater LOC severity (within‐subjects effect: B = 0.01, p = .015), although youth with lower overall levels of food hedonics reported higher LOC severity ratings on average (between‐subjects effect: B = –0.04, p = .005). Youth reporting higher overall cravings reported higher average ratings of LOC severity (between‐subjects effect: B = 0.20, p = .001). Finally, youth reporting greater overall influence of others on eating behavior evidenced greater average levels of overeating severity (between‐subjects effect: B = 0.17, p < .001).

Discussion

Eating‐related factors appear to be most strongly associated with LOC severity, while environmental factors were most associated with overeating severity. Interventions targeting maladaptive eating in youth with overweight/obesity may benefit from helping youth incorporate palatable foods and satisfy cravings in a planned and controlled manner, and enhancing awareness of social‐contextual effects on eating.
Correlates of suicidal ideation in college women with eating disorders
Authors: Goel Neha J. , Sadeh‐Sharvit Shiri , Flatt Rachael E. , Trockel Mickey , Balantekin Katherine N. , Fitzsimmons‐Craft Ellen E. , Monterubio Grace E. , Firebaugh Marie-Laure , Jacobi Corinna , Wilfley Denise E. , Taylor C. Barr
Published: April 2018

Objective

To identify the correlates of suicidal ideation (SI) in a large sample of college women with eating disorders (EDs).

Method

A total of 690 female college students from 28 US colleges who screened positive for an ED, with the exception of anorexia nervosa, were assessed for SI. Univariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine independent correlates of SI. Measures included: ED psychopathology, ED behaviors (i.e., binge eating, vomiting, laxatives, compulsive exercise), current co‐morbid psychopathology (i.e., depression, anxiety, insomnia), weight/shape concerns, ED‐related clinical impairment, and body mass index (BMI). All significant variables were included in a backward binary multivariate logistic regression model to determine which variables were most strongly associated with SI.

Results

A total of 25.6% of the sample reported SI. All variables examined were significantly independently associated with SI, with the exception of compulsive exercise. Depression, anxiety, and vomiting remained as significant correlates of SI in the multivariate logistic regression model.

Discussion

ED screening on college campuses should assess for suicidality, and prevention and treatment efforts should target vomiting and co‐morbid depression and anxiety symptoms to reduce risk of SI for high‐risk individuals.
Efficient Synthesis of α‐Glycosyl Chlorides Using 2‐Chloro‐1,3‐dimethylimidazolinium Chloride: A Convenient Protocol for Quick One‐Pot Glycosylation
Authors: Tatina Madhu Babu , Khong Duc Thinh , Judeh Zaher M. A.
Published: April 2018

A mild and convenient method for the synthesis of α‐glycosyl chlorides in high 80–96 % yields within 15–30 min using 2‐chloro‐1,3‐dimethylimidazolinium chloride (DMC) is disclosed. The method has a wide substrate scope and is compatible with labile OH protecting groups, including benzyl, acetyl, benzoyl, isopropylidene, benzylidene, TBDMS (tert‐butyldimethylsilyl), and TBDPS (tert‐butyldiphenylsilyl) groups. The excellent α selectivity obtained in this reaction is attributed to in‐situ isomerization of β‐glycosyl chlorides to the more stable α‐glycosyl chlorides, as demonstrated by 1H NMR spectroscopic studies. Disarmed sugars with OBz or OAc groups at C‐2 were chlorinated at a faster rate but ismomerized (β→α) at a slower rate than armed sugars with an OBn group at C‐2. More importantly, the method enables highly desirable one‐pot glycosylation reactions to take place, thus allowing efficient syntheses of disaccharides and simple O‐glycosylated sugars in high overall yields without the need for separation or purification of the α‐glycosyl chloride donors. This method will be especially useful for direct glycosylation reactions using glycosyl chloride donors that are unstable upon separation and purification.
Short‐selling and credit default swap spreads—Where do informed traders trade?
Authors: Lecce Steven , Lepone Andrew , McKenzie Michael D. , Wong Jin Boon , Yang Jin Y.
Published: April 2018

During the global financial crisis, short‐selling and credit default swaps (CDS) gained notoriety as indicators of financial collapse. This paper extends the literature by examining the relationship between short‐selling and CDS spreads. Results indicate that lagged short‐selling metrics forecast changes in CDS spreads; short‐selling is found to have a positive relationship with CDS spreads. These results are robust to various controls including the supply of stock for short‐selling, changes in CDS spreads, cross‐sectional controls for fixed effects, sub‐group analysis by industry sector, and the use of contemporaneous explanatory variables. This suggests that informed traders prefer to short‐sell the underlying stocks.
Geothermal field and deep thermal structure of the Tianshan‐Altun region
Authors: Yu Qiang , Ren Zhanli , Wang Baojiang , Zheng Wenbo , Tao Ni
Published: April 2018

This paper analyses the characteristics of geothermal gradient and terrestrial heat flow in the Tianshan‐Altun region on the basis of available published data, such as geothermal gradient, measured temperature during oil test producing, rock thermophysics, and heat flow. Based on the steady‐state heat conduction equation, this paper has set up a 3D model by adopting basin modelling method to carry out deep temperature field simulation, with the aim to determine deep thermal structural parameters, the lithospheric thermal thickness, and the crustal contribution rate to the terrestrial heat flow. The geological section of Golmud‐Ejin Banner and the geological section of West Kunlun‐Tarim‐Tianshan were selected to represent the regional temperature and its thermal structure. The results show that the Tianshan‐Altun region has a low temperature geothermal field (averaging temperature gradient 2.2 °C/100 m, heat flow 56.3 mW/m2). The Qaidam Basin has the highest value (averaging 3.2 °C/100 m, 57.4 mW/m2). The lithospheric thermal thickness of the Tianshan‐Altun region is between 110 and 210 km. There are great differences of lithospheric thermal thickness on both sides of the Altun‐Tagh Fault. The west has thicker thermal lithospheric thickness (160–210 km) than the east (110–180 km). The contribution rate of the crust to the terrestrial heat flow decreases in the following order: the Qaidam Basin, the Jiudong Basin, the Jungger Basin, the Tarim Basin, and the Tuha Basin. Sedimentary basins have higher temperature and thinner thermal lithosphere than tectonic orogens when at the same depth. It can be observed that great thermal differences exist on both sides of the Altun‐Tagh Fault. There are relative similarities of low temperature, deeper thermal structure, and thicker lithospheric thermal thickness among the Tarim Basin, the Junggar Basin, and the Yining Basin in a wide geological area because of their shared deep geological basement. The Qaidam Basin and the Hexi Corridor Basin, which are located to the east of Altun‐Tagh Fault, have higher thermal background.
Management of leaking tracheoesophageal puncture with hyaluronic acid injection
Authors: Twomey Kevin , Lehn Belinda , Vasani Sarju
Published: April 2018

Background

Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) with voice prosthesis is a widely used technique for voice restoration in laryngectomy and pharyngolaryngectomy patients. Complications include leakage around the prosthesis or a persistent TEP postremoval of the prosthesis.

Methods

We describe a method for managing leakage around voice prosthesis or persistent TEP using hyaluronic acid injection. We also present a retrospective audit of our practice.

Results

This study had 8 patients who were treated over a 32‐month period. All cases had immediate cessation of salivary leak. Duration of efficacy was variable. Five of the 8 cases had permanent resolution of their symptoms after multiple injections. Two cases of persistent TEP were treated surgically after multiple injections. One patient with peripheral leakage continues to have regular injections.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid injection in the treatment of persistent TEP or peripheral leak around a voice prosthesis is a useful treatment option to provide immediate and occasionally long‐lasting relief from symptoms.
Elevated expression of keratin 17 in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma is associated with decreased survival
Authors: Regenbogen Elliot , Mo Michelle , Romeiser Jamie , Shroyer A. Laurie W. , Escobar‐Hoyos Luisa F. , Burke Stephanie , Shroyer Kenneth R.
Published: April 2018

Background

Overexpression of keratin 17 (K17) is highly associated with poor prognosis in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the cervix. This study was performed to (1) determine whether K17 may be a prognostic biomarker in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and (2) to establish if K17 expression is associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) status.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining was performed for K17 of oral, oropharyngeal, and laryngeal SCCs, and normal oropharyngeal mucosa. The HPV status was determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Elevated K17 expression was significantly associated with an overall decreased patient survival (P = .02) and, more specifically, in patients with oropharyngeal SCC (P = .01). When controlling for HPV status and tumor location K17 was still a significant predictor of survival (P = .01).

Conclusion

Therefore, K17 is a novel prognostic biomarker of poor survival for patients with HNSCCs, controlling for anatomic site and HPV status.
Tongue cancer epidemiology in Brazil: incidence, morbidity and mortality
Authors: Cohen Goldemberg Daniel , de Araújo Luiz Henrique Lima , Antunes Héliton Spindola , de Melo Andreia Cristina , Santos Thuler Luiz Claudio
Published: April 2018

Background

The purpose of this current research was to clarify for the scientific community the trends of tongue cancer epidemiology in Brazil.

Methods

The data came from Population Based Cancer Registries, Hospital Cancer Registries, and Mortality Information System from 2000 to 2014.

Results

The age‐adjusted incidence rate are increasing in both men and women for base of tongue cancer and for other and unspecified parts of the tongue in women, and decreasing in men for other and unspecified parts of the tongue. The majority of cases were diagnosed at clinical stages III and IV. The mortality rate remained relatively stable in both men and women in the period studied.

Conclusion

The increase in age‐adjusted incidence rate for tongue cancers (except for other and unspecified parts of the tongue in men), with most patients over 50 years of age, with low education levels, and advanced disease reinforces the need for interventions that address access to health promotion resources and medical care in Brazil.
Discriminating gastric cancer and gastric ulcer using human plasma amino acid metabolic profile
Authors: Jing Fangyu , Hu Xin , Cao Yunfeng , Xu Minghao , Wang Yuanyuan , Jing Yu , Hu Xiaodan , Gao Yu , Zhu Zhitu
Published: April 2018

Patients with gastric ulcer (GU) have a significantly higher risk of developing gastric cancer (GC), especially within 2 years after diagnosis. The main way to improve the prognosis of GC is to predict the tumorigenesis and metastasis in the early stage. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the ability of human plasma amino acid metabolic profile for discriminating GC and GU. In this study, we first used liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry technique to characterize the plasma amino acid metabolism in GC and GU patients. Plasma samples were collected from 84 GC patients and 82 GU patients, and 22 amino acids were detected in each patient. Partial least squares‐discriminant analysis model was performed to analyze the data of these amino acids. We observed seven differential amino acids between GC and GU. A regression analysis model was established using these seven amino acids. Finally, a panel of five differential amino acids, including glutamine, ornithine, histidine, arginine and tryptophan, was identified for discriminating GC and GU with good specificity and sensitivity. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate diagnostic ability of the regression model and area under the curve was 0.922. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the potential values of plasma amino acid metabolic profile and metabolomic analysis technique in assisting diagnosis of GC. More studies are needed to highlight the theoretical strengths of metabolomics to understand the potential metabolic mechanisms in GC. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(6):553–562, 2018
Second regional plasmapheresis conference and workshop for Southeast Asia (SEA) on the immunomodulatory role of plasma exchange in central and peripheral nervous system disorders, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 9th December 2017
Authors: Viswanathan Shanthi , Hung Stefanie Kar Yan , Goyal Vinay , Apiwattanakul Metha , Thirugnanam Umapathi N. , Abdullah Suhailah , Aye Seinn Mya Mya , Ohnmar Ohnmar , Si Le Tri , Keosodsay Saysavath , Estiasari Riwanti , Khalife Najib , Hiew Fu Liong
Published: April 2018

In December 2017, 79 delegates attended the 2nd regional plasmapheresis conference and workshop for Southeast Asia (SEA) on the immunomodulatory role of plasma exchange in central and peripheral nervous system disorders in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This meeting featured 6 plenary lectures, interactive sessions dedicated for experience sharing, case presentations, and a practical session for paramedics. Clinical experts and researchers from 7 SEA countries and India shared experience and challenges in treating autoimmune neurological disorders. While the spectrum of diseases and neurology practice remained largely similar, there was great disparities in accessibility of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) within SEA countries and between urban or rural settings. Costs, human resources, and healthcare policies are common challenges in providing sustainable TPE services. Novel techniques and innovative ideas in performing TPE were explored. A working consortium comprising of key opinion leaders was proposed to improve standards of TPE and enhance future research.
Parathyroid hormone‐induced down‐regulation of miR‐532‐5p for matrix metalloproteinase‐13 expression in rat osteoblasts
Authors: Mohanakrishnan Vishal , Balasubramanian Arumugam , Mahalingam Gokulnath , Partridge Nicola Chennell , Ramachandran Ilangovan , Selvamurugan Nagarajan
Published: April 2018

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) acts on osteoblasts and functions as an essential regulator of calcium homeostasis and as a mediator of bone remodeling. We previously reported that PTH stimulates the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13) in rat osteoblasts and that MMP‐13 plays a key role in bone remodeling, endochondral bone formation, and bone repair. Recent evidence indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) have regulatory functions in bone metabolism. In this study, we hypothesized that the down‐regulation of miRNAs that target MMP‐13 by PTH leads to the stimulation of MMP‐13 expression in osteoblasts. We used various bioinformatic tools to identify miRNAs that putatively target rat MMP‐13. Among these miRNAs, the expression of miR‐532‐5p in rat osteoblasts decreased at 4 h of PTH‐treatment, whereas MMP‐13 mRNA expression was maximal at the same time point. When an miR‐532‐5p mimic was transiently transfected into UMR‐106‐01 cells, MMP‐13 mRNA and protein expression decreased. Using a luciferase reporter assay system, we also identified that miR‐532‐5p directly targeted the 3′ UTRs of MMP‐13 gene. Based on these results, we suggest that PTH‐induced down‐regulation of miR‐532‐5p resulted in the stimulation of MMP‐13 expression in rat osteoblasts. This study identified a significant role of miRNA in controlling bone remodeling via PTH‐stimulated MMP‐13 expression. This finding enhances our understanding of bone metabolism and bone‐related diseases and it could provide information regarding the usage of miRNAs as therapeutic agents or biomarkers.
Aberrant expression of LncRNA‐MIR31HG regulates cell migration and proliferation by affecting miR‐31 and miR‐31* in Hirschsprung's disease
Authors: Cai Peng , Li Hongxing , Huo Weiwei , Zhu Hairong , Xu Chao , Zang Rujin , Lv Wei , Xia Yankai , Tang Weibing
Published: April 2018

Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR) is a birth defect that causes a failure of the enteric nervous system to cover the distal gut during early embryonic development. Evidence shows that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNA) play important roles in HSCR. The MIR31 host gene (MIR31HG), also known as Loc554202, is a long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA), which acts as the host gene of (microRNA) miR‐31 and miR‐31*. There have been no studies regarding its function in early developmental defects during pregnancy, and its downstream genetic receptors. We report that downregulation of MIR31HG inhibited migration and proliferation in 293T and SH‐SY5Y cell lines, by suppressing miR‐31 and miR‐31*. Moreover, the downregulation of miR‐31 and miR‐31* enhanced inter‐α‐trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 5 (ITIH5) and the phosphatidylinositol‐4, 5‐bisphosphate 3‐kinase catalytic gamma subunit (PIK3CG), respectively with reductions of cell migration and proliferation in 293T and SH‐SY5Y cell lines. In addition, synergistic actions were observed between miR‐31 and miR‐31* in cell migration and proliferation. Our results demonstrated that the MIR31HG‐miR‐31/31*‐ITIH5/PIK3CG pathway plays a role in the pathogenesis of HSCR.
Virologic failure and mortality in older ART initiators in a multisite Latin American and Caribbean Cohort
Authors: Carriquiry Gabriela , Giganti Mark J , Castilho Jessica L , Jayathilake Karu , Cahn Pedro , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Cortes Claudia , Pape Jean W , Padgett Denis , Sierra‐Madero Juan , McGowan Catherine C , Shepherd Bryan E , Gotuzzo Eduardo
Published: April 2018

Introduction

The “greying” of the HIV epidemic necessitates a better understanding of the healthcare needs of older HIV‐positive adults. As these individuals age, it is unclear whether comorbidities and their associated therapies or the ageing process itself alter the response to antiretroviral therapy (ART). In this study, HIV treatment outcomes and corresponding risk factors were compared between older ART initiators and those who were younger using data from the Caribbean, Central and South America Network for HIV Epidemiology (CCASAnet).

Methods

HIV‐positive adults (≥18 years) initiating ART at nine sites in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico and Peru were included. Patients were classified as older (≥50 years) or younger (<50 years) based on age at ART initiation. ART effectiveness was measured using three outcomes: death, virologic failure and ART treatment modification. Cox regression models for each outcome compared risk between older and younger patients, adjusting for other covariates.

Results

Among 26,311 patients initiating ART between 1996 and 2016, 3389 (13%) were ≥50 years. The majority of patients in both ≥50 and <50 age groups received a non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor‐based regimen (89% vs. 87%), did not have AIDS at baseline (63% vs. 62%), and were male (59% vs. 58%). Older patients had a higher risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.64; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.48 to 1.83) and a lower risk of virologic failure (aHR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.63 to 0.84). There was no difference in risk of ART modification (aHR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.94 to 1.06). Risk factors for death, virologic failure and treatment modification were similar for each group.

Conclusions

Older age at ART initiation was associated with increased mortality and decreased risk of virologic failure in our cohort of more than 26,000 ART initiators in Latin America and the Caribbean. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study from the region to evaluate ART outcomes in this growing and important population. Given the complexity of issues related to ageing with HIV, a greater understanding is needed in order to properly respond to this shifting epidemic.
The Tablets, Ring, Injections as Options (TRIO) study: what young African women chose and used for future HIV and pregnancy prevention
Authors: van der Straten Ariane , Agot Kawango , Ahmed Khatija , Weinrib Rachel , Browne Erica N , Manenzhe Kgahlisho , Owino Fredrick , Schwartz Jill , Minnis Alexandra ,   on behalf of the TRIO Study Team
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Preventing HIV and unintended pregnancies are key global health priorities. To inform product rollout and to understand attributes of future multipurpose prevention technologies (MPT) associated with preference and use, we evaluated three placebo delivery forms: daily oral tablets, a monthly vaginal ring, and two monthly intramuscular injections in TRIO, a five‐month study among young Kenyan and South African women.

Methods

HIV‐negative, sexually active, non‐pregnant women aged 18 to 30 were enrolled and randomized to use each placebo delivery form for one month (stage 1). Then, participants chose one product to use for two additional months (stage 2). We assessed safety, product ranking, choice, and use. We examined demographic and behavioural correlates of choice and, reciprocally, unwillingness to use in the future with logistic regression models.

Results

277 women enrolled, 249 completed stage 1 and 246 completed stage 2. Median age was 23 years, 49% were Kenyan and 51% were South African. Three participants became pregnant during the study and one participant HIV‐seroconverted. There were 18 product‐related adverse events, six tablets‐related, 11 ring‐related, and one injection‐related. After trying each product, 85% preferred a TRIO product over condoms. Injections were chosen most (64%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 58%, 70%; p < 0.001), and by more South Africans than Kenyans (odds ratio (OR) 2.01, 95% CI: 1.17, 3.43; p = 0.01). There was no significant difference in choosing tablets versus ring (21%, 95% CI: 16%, 26% vs. 15%, 95% CI: 11%, 20%; p = 0.11). Tablet and ring adherence, based on direct observations and self‐reports, improved over time. However, participants’ self‐reported use of tablets did not match objective data from the electronic dose monitoring device. Participants were fully compliant with injections.

Conclusion

In this population at risk for HIV and pregnancy, all participants agreed to choose and use a placebo MPT delivery form. A majority of participants preferred TRIO products to male condoms, an existing MPT. Injections were most liked and best used, however, they are years away from reaching the clinics. In the meantime, expanding the availability of tablets and giving access to rings can begin to fulfill the promise of choice for HIV prevention technologies and inform the development of suitable delivery forms as MPT.
LI‐RADS 2017: An update
Authors: Kielar Ania Z. , Chernyak Victoria , Bashir Mustafa R. , Do Richard K. , Fowler Kathryn J. , Mitchell Donald G. , Cerny Milena , Elsayes Khaled M. , Santillan Cynthia , Kamaya Aya , Kono Yuko , Sirlin Claude B. , Tang An
Published: April 2018

The computed tomography / magnetic resonance imaging (CT/MRI) Liver Imaging Reporting & Data System (LI‐RADS) is a standardized system for diagnostic imaging terminology, technique, interpretation, and reporting in patients with or at risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Using diagnostic algorithms and tables, the system assigns to liver observations category codes reflecting the relative probability of HCC or other malignancies. This review article provides an overview of the 2017 version of CT/MRI LI‐RADS with a focus on MRI. The main LI‐RADS categories and their application will be described. Changes and updates introduced in this version of LI‐RADS will be highlighted, including modifications to the diagnostic algorithm and to the optional application of ancillary features. Comparisons to other major diagnostic systems for HCC will be made, emphasizing key similarities, differences, strengths, and limitations. In addition, this review presents the new Treatment Response algorithm, while introducing the concepts of MRI nonviability and viability. Finally, planned future directions for LI‐RADS will be outlined.

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1459–1474.
A counterexample to decomposing climate shifts and trends by weather types
Authors: Bürger Gerd
Published: April 2018

The literature contains a sizable number of publications where weather types are used to decompose climate shifts or trends into contributions of frequency and mean of those types. They are all based on the product rule, that is, a transformation of a product of sums into a sum of products, the latter providing the decomposition. While there is nothing to argue about the transformation itself, its interpretation as a climate shift or trend decomposition is bound to fail. While the case of a climate shift may be viewed as an incomplete description of a more complex behaviour, trend decomposition indeed produces bogus trends, as demonstrated by a synthetic counterexample with well‐defined trends in type frequency and mean. Consequently, decompositions based on that transformation, be it for climate shifts or trends, must not be used.
An updated “climatology” of tornadoes and waterspouts in Italy
Authors: Miglietta Mario Marcello , Matsangouras Ioannis T.
Published: April 2018

Ten years of tornadoes (TR) and waterspouts (WS) in Italy are analysed in terms of geographical, seasonal, monthly, diurnal, and rating distribution. Starting from the European severe weather database, a comprehensive data set is developed for the period 2007–2016, which includes 707 WS and 371 TR. The category of WS includes many weak events but also some intense vortices, able to produce significant damages as they make landfall. WS develop mainly near the Italian coasts exposed to westerly flows (Tyrrhenian and Apulia region Ionian coast); 25% of them makes landfall and becomes TR. The majority of WS develops in autumn (43%), followed by summer (33%). The average density is 0.9 events per 100 km of coastline per year, although there is a strong subregional variation, with peaks of around 5 in some spots along the Tyrrhenian coast. TR originate from WS in about half of cases; the average density of TR is 1.23 events per 104 km2 per year, which is comparable with other Mediterranean regions. The occurrence of TR is more frequent in summer, followed by autumn; however, limiting the analysis to TR originated inland, the number of events is maximum in summer and late spring. The latter result suggests a distinction of “continental” cases, mainly affecting northern Italy in late spring and summer, and “maritime” cases, which affect mainly the peninsular regions in late summer and autumn. The highest density of TR was reported along the coasts of Lazio and Tuscany, in the Venetian plain, in the southern part of Apulia: in these regions, the density of events is comparable with that of the U.S. states with the highest TR rates. In contrast, the probability of significant TR in any Italian region is much smaller than that of the U.S. states with the highest risk.
Phosphoproteome profiling provides insight into the mechanism of action for carvedilol‐mediated cancer prevention
Authors: Cleveland Kristan H. , Yeung Steven , Huang Kevin M. , Liang Sherry , Andresen Bradley T. , Huang Ying
Published: April 2018

Recent studies suggest that the β‐blocker drug carvedilol prevents skin carcinogenesis but the mechanism is unknown. Carvedilol is one of a few β‐blockers identified as biased agonist based on an ability to promote β‐arrestin‐mediated processes such as ERK phosphorylation. To understand the role of phosphoproteomic signaling in carvedilol's anticancer activity, the mouse epidermal JB6 P+ cells treated with EGF, carvedilol, or their combination were analyzed using the Phospho Explorer Antibody Array containing 1318 site‐specific and phospho‐specific antibodies of over 30 signaling pathways. The array data indicated that both EGF and carvedilol increased phosphorylation of ERK's cytosolic target P70S6 K while its nuclear target ELK‐1 were activated only by EGF; Furthermore, EGF‐induced phosphorylation of ELK‐1 and c‐Jun was attenuated by carvedilol. Subcellular fractionation analysis indicated that ERK nuclear translocation induced by EGF was blocked by co‐treatment with carvedilol. Western blot and luciferase reporter assays confirmed that the biased β‐blockers carvedilol and alprenolol blocked EGF‐induced phosphorylation and activation of c‐Jun/AP‐1 and ELK‐1. Consistently, both carvedilol and alprenolol strongly prevented EGF‐induced neoplastic transformation of JB6 P+ cells. Remarkably, oral carvedilol treatment significantly inhibited the growth of A375 melanoma xenograft in SCID mice. As nuclear translocation of ERK is a key step in carcinogenesis, inhibition of this event is proposed as a novel anticancer mechanism for biased β‐blockers such as carvedilol.
Simultaneous pH‐sensitive and oxygen‐sensitive MRI of human gliomas at 3 T using multi‐echo amine proton chemical exchange saturation transfer spin‐and‐gradient echo echo‐planar imaging (CEST‐SAGE‐EPI)
Authors: Harris Robert J. , Yao Jingwen , Chakhoyan Ararat , Raymond Catalina , Leu Kevin , Liau Linda M. , Nghiemphu Phioanh L. , Lai Albert , Salamon Noriko , Pope Whitney B. , Cloughesy Timothy F. , Ellingson Benjamin M.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

To introduce a new pH‐sensitive and oxygen‐sensitive MRI technique using amine proton CEST echo spin‐and‐gradient echo (SAGE) EPI (CEST‐SAGE‐EPI).

Methods

pH‐weighting was obtained using CEST estimations of magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym) at 3 ppm, and oxygen‐weighting was obtained using
measurements. Glutamine concentration, pH, and relaxation rates were varied in phantoms to validate simulations and estimate relaxation rates. The values of MTRasym and
in normal‐appearing white matter, T2 hyperintensity, contrast enhancement, and macroscopic necrosis were measured in 47 gliomas.

Results

Simulation and phantom results confirmed an increase in MTRasym with decreasing pH. The CEST‐SAGE‐EPI estimates of R2,
, and
varied linearly with gadolinium diethylenetriamine penta‐acetic acid concentration (R2 = 6.2 mM−1·sec−1 and
 = 6.9 mM−1·sec−1). The CEST‐SAGE‐EPI and Carr‐Purcell‐Meiboom‐Gill estimates of R2 (R2 = 0.9943) and multi‐echo gradient‐echo estimates of
(R2 = 0.9727) were highly correlated. T2 lesions had lower
and higher MTRasym compared with normal‐appearing white matter, suggesting lower hypoxia and high acidity, whereas contrast‐enhancement tumor regions had elevated
and MTRasym, indicating high hypoxia and acidity.

Conclusion

The CEST‐SAGE‐EPI technique provides simultaneous pH‐sensitive and oxygen‐sensitive image contrasts for evaluation of the brain tumor microenvironment. Advantages include fast whole‐brain acquisition, in‐line B0 correction, and simultaneous estimation of CEST effects, R2,
, and
at 3 T.
Prevalence and Determinants of Engagement with Obesity Care in the United States
Authors: Stokes Andrew , Collins Jason M. , Grant Bethany F. , Hsiao Chia‐Wen , Johnston Stephen S. , Ammann Eric M. , Berry Kaitlyn M. , Tong Cindy , Scamuffa Robin F.
Published: April 2018

Objective

Medical management of obesity can result in significant weight loss and reduce the burden of obesity‐related complications. This report employs a new conceptual model to quantify engagement with obesity care and associated determinants in the US adult population.

Methods

Engagement with obesity care was conceptualized as a cascade comprising 5 successive steps: perceiving oneself as overweight, desiring to lose weight, attempting weight loss, seeking care from a health care professional for obesity, and seeking care from a physician specifically.

Results

Among adults with obesity, 7.3% did not perceive themselves as overweight, 1.5% perceived themselves as overweight but had no desire to lose weight, 29.9% wanted to lose weight but did not try in the last year, 51.3% tried to lose weight but did not consult a health professional, and 6.4% sought help for weight loss from a health professional but not a physician, implying that 96.4% of the population with obesity had an unmet need for obesity care.

Conclusions

This analysis provides new insight into the most common points along the cascade at which disengagement occurs and can inform efforts to improve uptake of obesity‐related health care services.
Rigid polyurethane foams reinforced with disilanolisobutyl POSS: Synthesis and properties
Authors: Hebda Edyta , Bukowczan Artur , Ozimek Jan , Raftopoulos Konstantinos N. , Wroński Sebastian , Tarasiuk Jacek , Pielichowski Jan , Leszczyńska Agnieszka , Pielichowski Krzysztof
Published: April 2018

This work reports the synthesis of rigid polyurethane (PU) foams modified by disilanolisobutyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (DSIPOSS). This open‐cage nanostructure silsesquioxane has 2 hydroxyl groups and therefore can be chemically built directly in the PU backbone to form hybrid polyurethane‐POSS foam. Synthesis procedure using polymeric 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate, polyetherol, and DSIPOSS has been elaborated, and the influence of POSS on the cell structure, closed cell content, apparent density, thermal conductivity, and compression strength of the rigid polyurethane composites has been evaluated. The hybrid composite foams containing 1.5 and 2.0 wt% DSIPOSS showed a reduced number of cells and an increased average area of foam cells in comparison with the unmodified PU, while the addition of 0.5wt% of DSIPOSS causes an increase in the number of cells of the foam as compared with the reference and thus a reduction in the average area of cells. X‐ray microtomography provided data on the porous structure of polyurethane hybrid materials, including reduction of the pore surface area. Scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis revealed a good homogenization of DSIPOSS in polyurethane matrix. Thermogravimetric analysis results have shown that incorporation of POSS nanoparticles into PU foam does not significantly change the degradation process. The compressive strength of PUF‐POSS hybrids in the direction parallel and perpendicular to the direction of foam rise is greater than the strength of the reference foam already for the lowest DSIPOSS content.