bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Double layered stents for carotid angioplasty: A meta‐analysis of available clinical data
Authors: Sannino Anna , Giugliano Giuseppe , Toscano Evelina , Schiattarella Gabriele G. , Franzone Anna , Tesorio Tullio , Trimarco Bruno , Esposito Giovanni , Stabile Eugenio
Published: December 2017

Objectives

The objective of this meta‐analysis is to evaluate clinical efficacy of double layered mesh covered carotid stent systems in the clinical practice.

Background

The need for an increase plaque coverage to decrease the risk of debris dislodgement through the stent struts, following carotid artery stenting (CAS), has brought to the design of a new generation of double layered carotid stents. Several small sized clinical studies evaluating two different devices have been recently published, unfortunately these are not sufficiently powered to test for device related and clinical endpoints and no comparison, between the two available devices, has been reported yet.

Methods

Ten studies, enrolling 635 patients, were included in the present meta‐analysis. Our study analyzed a composite endpoint of 30‐day stroke and death and the occurrence of procedural unsuccess after CAS with the use of two different double layered carotid stent systems.

Results

Thirty‐day stroke and death rate was quite low (patients 635, event rate 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01–0.04, P < 0.0001). The incidence of procedural unsuccess with these devices was relatively low (patients 635, event rate 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.08, P < 0.0001). When a subgroup analysis was performed, according to the specific subtype of carotid stent, no differences in the occurrence of 30‐day death and stroke rate and procedural unsuccess were observed (P = 0.979).

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggests that dual layered carotid stents could be safely used for the treatment of extracranial carotid artery stenosis, with a relatively low rate of procedural unsuccess, and allow achieving a quite low rate of postprocedural adverse events.
Insufficiency of a Damus‐Kaye‐Stansel anastomosis in a Fontan patient: Transfemoral implantation of an Edwards Sapien 3 valve
Authors: Schneider Heike E. , Gravenhorst Verena , Paul Thomas , Jacobshagen Claudius
Published: December 2017

We present a 22‐year‐old patient with a univentricular heart who had already undergone five open heart surgeries including a Damus‐Kaye‐Stansel procedure, Fontan completion and tricuspid valve replacement. In addition, epimyocardial pacemaker implantation and repeated revisions had been necessary. He developed symptomatic free regurgitation of the pulmonary portion of his DKS anastomosis. To avoid additional high‐risk open‐heart surgery, we successfully implanted an Edwards Sapien 3 valve transfemorally in the pulmonary portion of the DKS anastomosis relieving insufficiency.
Apparent pacemaker dysfunction during peptide receptor radionuclide therapy for neuroendocrine tumor
Authors: Asbach Stefan , Schluermann Fabienne , Ruf Juri , Bode Christoph , Lang Corinna
Published: December 2017

Key Clinical Message

This case is a reminder not to overlook rare causes of electrolyte shifts, which may cause reversible changes in pacemaker pacing thresholds.
Ethylene Epoxidation Catalyzed by Ag Nanoparticles on Ag‐LSX Zeolites formed by Pressure‐ and Temperature‐Induced Auto‐Reduction
Authors: Kim Donghoon , Lee Yongmoon , Kim Yonghwi , Mingle Kathleen , Lauterbach Jochen , Blom Douglas A. , Vogt Thomas , Lee Yongjae
Published: December 2017

Ag+‐Exchanged LSX (Ag‐LSX: Ag96Al96Si96O384⋅n H2O), a large pore low silica analogue (Si/Al=1.0) of faujasite, was prepared and post‐synthetically modified using pressure and temperature in the presence of various pore‐penetrating fluids. Using high‐resolution synchrotron X‐ray powder and single crystal diffraction we derive structural models of the as‐prepared and post‐synthetically modified Ag‐LSX materials. In the as‐prepared Ag‐LSX model, we located 96 silver cations and 245 H2O molecules distributed over seven and five distinctive sites, respectively. At 1.4(1) GPa pressure and 150 °C in ethanol the number of silver cations within the pores of Ag‐LSX is reduced by ca. 47.4 %, whereas the number of H2O molecules is increased by ca. 40.8 %. The formation of zero‐valent silver nanoparticles deposited on Ag‐LSX crystallites depends on the fluid present during pressurization. Ag‐nanoparticle‐Ag‐zeolite hybrid materials are recovered after pressure release and shown to have different chemical reactivity when used as catalysts for ethylene epoxidation.
The functional anatomy of the cerebrocerebellar circuit: A review and new concepts
Authors: Benagiano Vincenzo , Rizzi Anna , Lorusso Loredana , Flace Paolo , Saccia Matteo , Cagiano Raffaele , Ribatti Domenico , Roncali Luisa , Ambrosi Glauco
Published: December 2017

The cerebrocerebellar circuit is a feedback circuit that bidirectionally connects the neocortex and the cerebellum. According to the classic view, the cerebrocerebellar circuit is specifically involved in the functional regulation of the motor areas of the neocortex. In recent years, studies carried out in experimental animals by morphological and physiological methods, and in humans by magnetic resonance imaging, have indicated that the cerebrocerebellar circuit is also involved in the functional regulation of the nonmotor areas of the neocortex, including the prefrontal, associative, sensory and limbic areas. Moreover, a second type of cerebrocerebellar circuit, bidirectionally connecting the hypothalamus and the cerebellum, has been detected, being specifically involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic functions. This review analyzes the morphological features of the centers and pathways of the cerebrocerebellar circuits, paying particular attention to their organization in different channels, which separately connect the cerebellum with the motor areas and nonmotor areas of the neocortex, and with the hypothalamus. Actually, a considerable amount of new data have led, and are leading, to profound changes on the views on the anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the cerebrocerebellar circuits, so much they may be now considered to be essential for the functional regulation of many neocortex areas, perhaps all, as well as of the hypothalamus and of the limbic system. Accordingly, clinical studies have pointed out an involvement of the cerebrocerebellar circuits in the pathophysiology of an increasing number of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Semantic enhanced deep learning for image classification
Authors: Li Siguang , Li Maozhen , Jiang Changjun
Published: December 2017

Extracting training data semantics mainly depends on manual annotation samples prepared in advance, and semantic mapping largely relies on the prior conditions in image classification. A majority of the data samples in reality are unlabeled data, which necessitates a more efficient way to extract image semantics in classification. Deep learning, as an advanced machine learning technique, has recently received significant attention from both the academia and industry. Deep learning has the potential to extract semantic features from images in an automated way to fill up the semantic gap. This paper presents 2 novel deep learning models (ie, stacked denoising auto‐encoder and convolution deep Boltzmann machine). A stacked denoising auto‐encoder builds on a stacked auto‐encoder but uses a denoising auto‐encoder to improve the learning quality. Convolution deep Boltzmann machine combines the convolutional neural network model with the deep Boltzmann machine. These 2 models are evaluated on CIFAR‐10 and STL‐10 datasets, respectively. Experimental results show that the proposed 2 models outperform the original models in terms of both precision and recall.
High‐Resolution Absorption and Electronic Circular Dichroism Spectra of (R)‐(+)‐1‐Phenylethanol. Confident Interpretation Based on the Synergy between Experiments and Computations
Authors: Santoro Fabrizio , Mortaheb Farinaz , Lepelmeier Jörn , Boesl Ulrich , Heiz Ulrich , Kartouzian Aras
Published: December 2017

Using density functional theory and its time‐dependent extension for excited states, the S0→S1 high‐resolution vibronic absorption and electronic circular dichroism spectra of (R)‐(+)‐1‐phenylethanol are computed and compared to experimental spectra measured in jet‐cooled conditions in the region within 1000 cm−1 of the 0–0 transition. The agreement between theory and computation is satisfactory and allows a confident assignment of several experimental bands in terms of fundamentals of different modes. Cases are documented for which the analysis of optical anisotropy factors, owing to their signed nature, remarkably enhances the possibility of a robust assignment of the experimental absorption bands. Computational analysis shows that the experimental spectra are dominated by Herzberg–Teller contributions and that the electronic circular dichroism spectrum and the anisotropy factors are also strongly modulated by the effect of Duschinsky mixings.
Acquired myospherulosis secondary to gluteal augmentation on fine needle aspiration cytology: A diagnostic challenge
Authors: Alperstein Susan , Dilcher Thomas , Viswanathan Kartik , Rao Rema A. , Siddiqui Momin T. , Giorgadze Tamara
Published: December 2017

A 30‐year‐old female presented with a three‐month history of a multilocular cystic lesion over the lumbosacral spine. Fine‐needle aspiration biopsy (FNA) of the lesion was performed at an outside institution, and a cytologic diagnosis, suspicious for chordoma, was rendered. The patient presented for surgical consultation at our institution. Repeat FNA demonstrated an unusual fat‐like material. Upon further inquiry, the patient provided a recent history of gluteal contour improvement with fibroadipose tissue implants. A diagnosis of myospherulosis was made with a concurrent surgical pathology correlation. No evidence of chordoma was identified. To date, this is the first reported case of acquired myospherulosis in the context of gluteal contour enhancement and represents an important diagnostic pitfall to consider on cytology preparations.
Complex effects of mammalian grazing on extramatrical mycelial biomass in the Scandes forest‐tundra ecotone
Authors: Vowles Tage , Lindwall Frida , Ekblad Alf , Bahram Mohammad , Furneaux Brendan R. , Ryberg Martin , Björk Robert G.
Published: December 2017

Mycorrhizal associations are widespread in high‐latitude ecosystems and are potentially of great importance for global carbon dynamics. Although large herbivores play a key part in shaping subarctic plant communities, their impact on mycorrhizal dynamics is largely unknown. We measured extramatrical mycelial (EMM) biomass during one growing season in 16‐year‐old herbivore exclosures and unenclosed control plots (ambient), at three mountain birch forests and two shrub heath sites, in the Scandes forest‐tundra ecotone. We also used high‐throughput amplicon sequencing for taxonomic identification to investigate differences in fungal species composition. At the birch forest sites, EMM biomass was significantly higher in exclosures (1.36 ± 0.43 g C/m2) than in ambient conditions (0.66 ± 0.17 g C/m2) and was positively influenced by soil thawing degree‐days. At the shrub heath sites, there was no significant effect on EMM biomass (exclosures: 0.72 ± 0.09 g C/m2; ambient plots: 1.43 ± 0.94). However, EMM biomass was negatively related to Betula nana abundance, which was greater in exclosures, suggesting that grazing affected EMM biomass positively. We found no significant treatment effects on fungal diversity but the most abundant ectomycorrhizal lineage/cortinarius, showed a near‐significant positive effect of herbivore exclusion (p = .08), indicating that herbivory also affects fungal community composition. These results suggest that herbivory can influence fungal biomass in highly context‐dependent ways in subarctic ecosystems. Considering the importance of root‐associated fungi for ecosystem carbon balance, these findings could have far‐reaching implications.
Cultural identity dynamics: Capturing changes in cultural identities over time and their intraindividual organization
Authors: Amiot Catherine E. , Doucerain Marina M. , Zhou Biru , Ryder Andrew G.
Published: December 2017

Important life transitions – such as migration – have the potential to enrich one's sense of self, but they are also demanding and challenging. The current research investigates how cultural identities change and become configured over time among newly arrived international students and the social factors that predict these longitudinal changes. A four‐wave longitudinal study was conducted during international students' first year in their new country (N = 278). Multivariate hierarchical linear modeling analyses allowed us to unpack both baseline (between‐person) and intraindividual change (within‐person) effects. Whereas increased psychological need satisfaction via both the new and one's heritage cultural group predicted increased identity integration, greater discrimination (i.e., both at baseline and an increase over time) predicted increased compartmentalization and the predominance (categorization) of one identity over the others. Results are discussed in light of novel theoretical developments in the acculturation and identity change literatures.
Electrochemical Detection of Sialic Acid Using Phenylboronic Acid‐modified Poly(Diaminobenzoic Acid) Electrodes
Authors: Broncová Gabriela , Matějka Pavel , Němečková Zuzana , Vrkoslav Vladimír , Shishkanova Tatiana V.
Published: December 2017

This study is focused on the electrochemical detection of sialic acid (SA) using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiometric approaches with the polymeric film derived from 3,4‐diaminobenzoic acid (3,4‐DABA) and modified with 3‐aminophenylboronic acid (3‐APBA). The polymeric film derived from 3,4‐DABA was prepared using cyclic voltammetry at 0.5 M H2SO4 on a platinum disc electrode from 0 to 1.20 V vs. Ag/AgCl and characterized by FTIR‐Raman spectroscopy. It has been found that the polymerization process goes through the amino group and a free carboxyl group serves for the covalent binding of 3‐APBA onto the polymeric backbone. Both the electrochemical approaches independently confirmed the recognition of SA by APBA‐modified PDABA electrodes. In contrast to known electrochemical sensors in the literature, the APBA‐modified PADABA sensor for SA gave a response in the range from 0.025 to 0.998 mM at neutral pH using the EIS method. The decrease in the EIS signal of ca 12 % was observed after two weeks of intensive use. Importantly, the selective APBA‐modified polymeric electrode enabled the use of SA determination in artificial urine samples in a concentration range that is useful for diagnostic purposes, specifically 12–102 μg mL−1.
Designing Medical, Point of Care Sensors to Aid Health Care Providers in Diagnosing and Managing Diseases: Addressing Pertinent Issues and Some Contemporary Opportunities
Authors: Pendley Bradford D. , Lindner Erno
Published: December 2017

Point of care sensors play an important role in clinical medicine and are used daily to guide clinical decisions. This paper discusses clinical considerations in designing such devices for both the diagnosis and management of diseases as well as two contemporary needs for sensor development.
The role of beach morphology on coastal cliff erosion under extreme waves
Authors: Earlie Claire , Masselink Gerhard , Russell Paul
Published: December 2017

Erosion of hard‐rock coastal cliffs is understood to be caused by a combination of both marine and sub‐aerial processes. Beach morphology, tidal elevation and significant wave heights, especially under extreme storm conditions, can lead to variability in wave energy flux to the cliff‐toe. Wave and water level measurements in the nearshore under energetic conditions are difficult to obtain and in situ observations are rare. Here we use monthly cliff‐face volume changes detected using terrestrial laser scanning alongside beach morphological changes and modelled nearshore hydrodynamics to examine how exposed cliffs respond to changes in extreme wave conditions and beach morphology. The measurements cover the North Atlantic storms of 2013 to 2014 and consider two exposed stretches of coastline (Porthleven and Godrevy, UK) with contrasting beach morphology fronting the cliffs; a flat dissipative sandy beach at Godrevy and a steep reflective gravel beach at Porthleven. Beach slope and the elevation of the beach–cliff junction were found to influence the frequency of cliff inundation and the power of wave–cliff impacts. Numerical modelling (XBeach‐G) showed that under highly energetic wave conditions, i.e. those that occurred in the North Atlantic during winter 2013–2014, with Hs = 5.5 m (dissipative site) and 8 m (reflective site), the combination of greater wave height and steeper beach at the reflective site led to amplified wave run‐up, subjecting these cliffs to waves over four times as powerful as those impacting the cliffs at the dissipative site (39 kWm‐1 compared with 9 kWm‐1). This study highlighted the sensitivity of cliff erosion to extreme wave conditions, where the majority (over 90% of the annual value) of cliff‐face erosion ensued during the winter. The significance of these short‐term erosion rates in the context of long‐term retreat illustrates the importance of incorporating short‐term beach and wave dynamics into geomorphological studies of coastal cliff change. © 2017 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Mesozoic Basin prototypes of the Hongshan and Huobuxun sags in the eastern segment of the northern Qaidam Block
Authors: Tang Ziwen , Xu Shumei , Zhang Xiaodong , Li Sanzhong , Wang Dahua , Xiao Yongjun , Wu Xiangfeng , Wang Jinduo , Somerville Ian
Published: December 2017

The prototypes and evolutionary history of the Mesozoic basins in the eastern segment of the northern Qaidam Block are controversial, and the stress field is unclear with temporal and spatial variation. First, we divide the tectonic units systematically according to orogenesis, orogen stratigraphy, radioisotope geochemistry, petrology, and tectonics in the study area. The tectonic framework of “two belts and two blocks” formed in the study area before the Jurassic. The intersection of the NW‐trending and NE‐trending basement‐involved faults influences the formation of the Mesozoic prototype basins in the northern Qaidam Block. Second, we use a balanced cross‐section restoration method to retrieve the Mesozoic evolutionary history and determine the prototypes of the Hongshan and Huobuxun sags. The two sags were pulled apart by transtension during the Early–Middle Jurassic, initiating the Mesozoic evolutionary stages. The Hongshan and Huobuxun sags were under different stress states at different tectonic evolutionary stages during the Mesozoic. The Hongshan Sag was controlled by transtension with the NE‐directed extension ratio larger than the NW‐directed one during the Early–Middle Jurassic. The relatively weak extension led to an initial depression during the Early Jurassic. With an intense extension, the subsequent faulted Hongshan Sag deepened during the Middle Jurassic. The tectonic reversal initiated at the beginning of the Late Jurassic, resulting in the formation of the compressive Hongshan Sag, with the NE‐directed shortening ratio larger than the NW‐directed one during the Late Jurassic. The Hongshan Sag was in a relatively weak compressive stress state during the Cretaceous. The initial depression of the Huobuxun Sag, also under transtension, began to develop into an extensional faulted basin at the beginning of the Middle Jurassic, with the NE‐directed extension ratio much larger than the NW‐directed one. The tectonic reversal led to the formation of the compressive Huobuxun Sag during the Late Jurassic, with the NE‐directed shortening ratio much larger than the NW‐directed one. The Hongshan Sag was under the stronger extension during the Early–Middle Jurassic and the stronger compression during the Late Jurassic than the Huobuxun Sag.
Claiming the corner office: Female CEO careers and implications for leadership development
Authors: Athanasopoulou Andromachi , Moss‐Cowan Amanda , Smets Michael , Morris Timothy
Published: December 2017

Drawing on evidence from a unique data set of in‐depth qualitative interviews with 12 female CEOs (and 139 male CEOs) of global corporations, we explore what enables some women to become CEOs. By drawing on our data from male and female CEOs, we set the scene by comparing the advice they would give to young women as they start their careers. We then focus the rest of our article on the experiences and career trajectory of the 12 female CEOs. We make three theoretical contributions: We identify, at the individual level, how women cantake active ownershipof their careers as part of a self‐acceptance process; how they canembrace gynandrous leadershipas part of a self‐development process wherebothfeminineandmasculine leadership behaviors are embraced, with the feminine being dominant to help move beyond gender stereotypes, and finally, how theytranslate leadership—rather than combine—gender‐based behaviors as part of a self‐management process to develop their unique leadership style. For each of these theoretical contributions at the individual level, we also provide two practical recommendations for HR practice and policy, one relating to the intraorganizational context and the second having institutional‐level implications. We conclude by discussing implications for future research.
A randomized Phase III trial of neoadjuvant recombinant human endostatin, docetaxel and epirubicin as first‐line therapy for patients with breast cancer (CBCRT01)
Authors: Chen Jianghao , Yao Qing , Huang Meiling , Wang Bo , Zhang Juliang , Wang Ting , Ming Yu , Zhou Xiaodong , Jia Qianxin , Huan Yi , Wang Jing , Wang Ling
Published: December 2017

To further assess the efficacy and safety of recombinant human endostatin (rh‐endostatin), a Phase III, multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted. Patients to be treated with neoadjuvant docetaxel and epirubicin (DE) or DE plus rh‐endostatin (DEE) were eligible for this trial. The primary endpoint was clinical/pathological response. Secondary endpoints included adverse events and quality of life (QOL). Finally, 803 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive DE (n = 402) or DEE (n = 401) regimen. After three cycles of neoadjuvant therapy, “complete response” achieved in 14.2% of patients in DEE group versus 6.7% in DE group, “partial response” achieved in 76.8% versus 71.1%, while “stable disease” in 6.0% versus 18.9%, “progressive disease” in 3.0% versus 3.2% of patients. The rate of objective response in DEE and DE group was 91.0% and 77.9%, respectively (p < 0.001). In spite of a relatively higher pathological complete response achieved following the combination therapy, no significant difference was found between two arms. Adverse events were mostly of Grades 1–2. No significant difference in adverse event and QOL was found between the two arms. In conclusion, the combination of chemotherapy and rh‐endostatin achieved better outcomes than chemotherapy alone, and thus can be considered as a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancer.
Isodesmic Reactions in Catalysis – Only the Beginning?
Authors: Bhawal Benjamin N. , Morandi Bill
Published: December 2017

In this perspective article, we discuss catalytic isodesmic reactions, a group of chemical reactions that proceed through the redistribution of chemical bonds – i. e. all bonds present in the starting materials are reformed in the products. These reactions are usually reversible and provide a complementary approach to the kinetically controlled strategies traditionally employed in chemical synthesis. To emphasize the power of these reactions across the molecular sciences, we present selected applications of these reactions in organic synthesis, chemical biology, biomass valorization, waste treatment, and materials science. We finally speculate that the development of novel catalytic isodesmic reactions beyond the “classics” (alkene/alkyne metathesis and transfer hydrogenation) holds great promise to solve crucial challenges in synthetic chemistry in the years to come.
Technology Smart Approach to Keep Drip Irrigation Systems Functional
Authors: Reinders Felix B. , Van Niekerk Adriaan S.
Published: December 2017

Innovative technology that uses ultrasonic sound to clean drip pipes was developed to embrace the efficiencies offered by drip irrigation in order to preserve precious water resources and to get a return on the investment. The technology known as Greendrum technology uses only sound for cleaning and maintenance of drip irrigation pipes. It uses ultrasonic sound in a small body of water to effectively and quickly clean drip irrigation lines and pipes with ease. It is environmentally friendly and does not use any chemicals.

Through testing by the Agricultural Research Council–Institute for Agricultural Engineering (ARC‐IAE), results were obtained and analysed that gave some insight into the performance of drip irrigation systems under field conditions and how effective the cleaning process of the Greendrum technology was.

There was a tendency that the emission uniformity (EU) and coefficient of variation (CV) as measured in the field of all the dripper types, deteriorated over time.

Greendrum dripline cleaning machine results showed that there was a 73% positive change in the CV of the dripper line from a bad CV of 10.6% to an excellent CV of 2.85%. As the drippers could not be cleaned in any other way, the Greendrum ultrasonic sound way was extremely effective and totally restored the drippers. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular mechanism for the red blood cell senescence clock
Authors: Badior Katherine E. , Casey Joseph R.
Published: December 2017

Lacking protein synthesis machinery and organelles necessary for autophagy or apoptosis, aged red blood cells (RBCs) are marked by circulating auto‐antibodies for macrophage‐mediated clearance. The antigen recognized by these auto‐antibodies is the major protein of the RBC membrane, Band 3. To ensure regulation and specificity in clearance, the molecular “clock” must mark senescent cells in a way that differentiates them from younger cells, to prevent premature clearance. Predominant models of Band 3 senescence signaling are reviewed, and merits are discussed in light of the recently published crystal structure of the Band 3 membrane domain. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 70(1):32–40, 2018
Hyperthermia enhances radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer cells through ROS inducing autophagic cell death
Authors: Ba Ming‐Chen , Long Hui , Wang Shuai , Wu Yin‐Bing , Zhang Bo‐Huo , Yan Zhao‐Fei , Yu Fei‐Hong , Cui Shu‐Zhong
Published: December 2017

Hyperthermia (HT) enhances the anti‐cancer effects of radiotherapy (RT), but the precise biochemical mechanisms involved are unclear. This study was aim to investigate if mild HT sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to RT through reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐inducing autophagic cell death in a mice model of HCT116 human colorectal cancer. HCT116 mice model were randomly divided into five groups: mock group, hyperthermia group (HT), radiotherapy group (RT), HT + RT group, and HT + RT +N‐acetyl L‐cysteine (NAC) group (HT + CT + NAC). After four weeks of treatment, cancer growth inhibition, rate and mitochondrial membrane potential were measured with MTT and JC‐1 assays, respectively, while ROS were estimated fluorimetrically. The relationship of these parameters to expressions of autophagy‐related genes Beclin1, LC3B, and mTOR was analyzed. Gene expression was measured by Real‐Time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). There were significant increases in ROS levels and mitochondrial membrane potential in the HT + RT group. ROS levels in the HT + RT group increased more significantly than in any other group. In contrast, ROS levels in the HT + RT + NAC group were significantly decreased relative to the HT + RT group. The number of autophagic bodies in HT + RT group was higher than that of mock group. There were significant increases in the expression of Beclin1 and LC3B genes, while mTOR expression was significantly decreased in the HT + CT group. Treatment with NAC reversed the pattern of these changes. These results indicate that HT enhances the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer cells to RT through ROS inducing autophagic cell death.
Facile Synthesis Method for the Preparation of Large‐scale Ultra‐small GdPO4:Tb and GdPO4:Tb@LaPO4 Nanowires
Authors: Ansari Anees A.
Published: December 2017

A simple and efficient method is presented for the large‐scale synthesis of ultra‐small, wired‐shaped GdPO4:Tb nanostructured phosphor material with an average diameter of 2–5 nm and typical average length of 100 nm. X‐ray diffraction (X RD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis, as well as FTIR, UV–vis, emission, and excitation spectral techniques were employed to examine the crystal phase, purity, morphology, surface chemistry, and optical and photoluminescence properties of the as‐prepared nanoproducts. The TEM image clearly revealed the single‐phase, highly crystalline, narrow‐size‐distributed, ultra‐small, wire‐shaped nanostructures, which was confirmed from the XRD pattern. Optical absorption spectra in the ultraviolet region show high absorbance because of the high solubility and colloidal stability in aqueous solvents. Surface coating of an undoped LaPO4 shell remarkably enhanced the crystallinity and photoluminescence properties of the nanowires (NWs). Core/shell NWs represent high emission and excitation intensity regardless of the core NWs because of a decrease in multiphoton relaxation pathways. It could be a highly suitable nanomaterial for optical bioprobes, biodetectors, and so on.
Pharmacokinetics of Osimertinib in Chinese Patients With Advanced NSCLC: A Phase 1 Study
Authors: Zhao Hongyun , Cao Junning , Chang Jianhua , Zhang Zhenxian , Yang Li , Wang Jia , Cantarini Mireille , Zhang Li
Published: December 2017

Osimertinib is an oral, irreversible, central nervous system active epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)–tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) selective for both EGFR‐TKI sensitizing and T790M resistance mutations. The study's (NCT02529995) primary objective was to characterize the pharmacokinetics (PK) of osimertinib and its metabolites in Chinese patients enrolled in China. PK was assessed following single and multiple doses of 40 or 80 mg osimertinib once daily. Patients were aged ≥ 18 years with locally advanced or metastatic EGFR‐TKI‐sensitizing (EGFRm) non–small cell lung cancer and World Health Organization performance status of 0/1, who had progressed following prior EGFR‐TKI. Thirty‐one patients were assigned to treatment (40 mg, n = 15; 80 mg, n = 16), and 25 were included in the PK analyses set (40 mg, n = 12; 80 mg, n = 13). Six were excluded from analyses because of prior treatment with an osimertinib‐like substance. At steady state a flat PK profile with a low maximum–minimum plasma concentration ratio was observed. Investigator‐assessed objective response rate was 47% (7 of 15; 95%CI, 21.3–73.4) in the 40‐mg cohort and 75% (12 of 16; 95%CI, 47.6–92.7) in the 80‐mg cohort. Adverse events (AEs) leading to dose modification and treatment discontinuation were reported in 2 patients (6%) and 3 patients (10%), respectively. Serious AEs were reported in 8 patients (26%) and AEs leading to death in 1 patient (3%). Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis‐like event was reported in 1 patient (3%). Osimertinib PK in a Chinese patient population is well characterized and consistent with the global population, supporting the use of a once‐daily 80‐mg dose.
Minimal Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic and Drug‐Drug‐Disease Interaction Model of Rivaroxaban and Verapamil in Healthy and Renally Impaired Subjects
Authors: Ismail Mohamed , Lee Vincent H. , Chow Christina R. , Rubino Christopher M.
Published: December 2017

Current dosing recommendations for rivaroxaban advocate dosage reduction in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment and avoidance of concomitant strong inhibitors of CYP3A or P‐glycoprotein. However, rivaroxaban dosing in patients with mild renal impairment taking concomitant moderate inhibitors of CYP3A and P‐glycoprotein is not addressed. To quantify the impacts of concomitant verapamil administration and renal impairment on rivaroxaban pharmacokinetics, a minimal physiologically based pharmacokinetic model system was developed and used to evaluate potential increases in rivaroxaban exposure and the consequent increase in risk of major bleeding. Data from a phase 1, drug‐drug interaction study were used to qualify the minimal physiologically based pharmacokinetic model system. Model‐based simulations indicate that coadministration of rivaroxaban with verapamil substantially increases rivaroxaban exposure across all renal function categories, resulting in an exponential increase in bleeding risk. Reduction of the daily rivaroxaban dose to 10 to 15 mg reduces the major bleeding risk below the designated 4.5% threshold in the majority of patients with normal or mildly impaired renal function. A reduction to 10 mg daily in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment provides additional risk reduction so that 90% of those patients fall below the 4.5% threshold. A risk threshold of 4.5% was selected because it is the median predicted risk in patients treated concomitantly with ketoconazole, which is contraindicated for use with rivaroxaban. Patients taking both rivaroxaban and verapamil should take a reduced daily dose of rivaroxaban to minimize bleeding risk.
Fault diagnosis in switched‐linear systems by emulation of behavioral models on FPGA: A case study of current‐mode buck converter
Authors: Bhattacharya Rahul , Kumar Subindu , Biswas Santosh
Published: December 2017

This paper presents an Field‐Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)‐based fault emulation and detection framework for switched‐linear systems commonly encountered in power electronics. The proposed framework exploits high‐level behavioral modeling that maps analog functionality into fixed‐point architectures supported by FPGAs. This work is mainly concerned with modeling and validation of effectiveness of a fault diagnoser of a power converter much before its fabrication. The proposed concept of fault diagnosis at presilicon stage overcomes several reliability issues in power electronic systems and enables design and development of test resources, verification of test bed, and interconnecting circuitry at an early stage of the design. To illustrate applicability of this environment, well‐accepted fault events including hard and soft faults are emulated with the help of a nonideal model of a buck converter and a piecewise linear detection filter, which follow an observer‐based residual generation for fault detection. The paper also shows that the proposed method is equally applicable for detection of faults under unstable operation of the converter. The effectiveness of the proposed framework is evaluated through FPGA‐based simulation (or “emulation”) of a peak‐current‐mode–controlled buck‐type switching converter implemented on Xilinx Kintex‐7 FPGA in MATLAB/Simulink environment with Xilinx System Generator support. To the best of our knowledge, fault diagnosis in power converter by emulation of its nonideal model on FPGA is attempted for the first time in the literature. Experimental results show that power converter faults can be easily detected by monitoring detection filter residuals while some of the faults can be precisely identified.
Use of autologous adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells for creation of laryngeal cartilage
Authors: Zhang Hongji , Voytik‐Harbin Sherry , Brookes Sarah , Zhang Lujuan , Wallace Joseph , Parker Noah , Halum Stacey
Published: December 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are an exciting potential cell source for tissue engineering because cells can be derived from the simple excision of autologous fat. This study introduces a novel approach for tissue‐engineering cartilage from ASCs and a customized collagen oligomer solution, and demonstrates that the resultant cartilage can be used for laryngeal cartilage reconstruction in an animal model.

Study Design

Basic science experimental design.

Methods

ASCs were isolated from F344 rats, seeded in a customized collagen matrix, and cultured in chondrogenic differentiation medium for 1, 2, and 4 weeks until demonstrating cartilage‐like characteristics in vitro. Large laryngeal cartilage defects were created in the F344 rat model, with the engineered cartilage used to replace the cartilage defects, and the rats followed for 1 to 3 months. Staining examined cellular morphology and cartilage‐specific features.

Results

In vitro histological staining revealed rounded chondrocyte‐appearing cells evenly residing throughout the customized collagen scaffold, with positive staining for cartilage‐specific markers. The cartilage was used to successfully repair large cartilaginous defects in the rat model, with excellent functional results.

Conclusions

This study is the first study to demonstrate, in an animal model, that ASCs cultured in a unique form of collagen oligomer can create functional cartilage‐like grafts that can be successfully used for partial laryngeal cartilage replacement.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:E123–E129, 2018
Clinical implications of magnetic resonance imaging in temporomandibular disorders patients presenting ear fullness
Authors: Lee Sang Yeon , Park Ji Woon , Park Seo Eun , Nam Dong Woo , Lim Hyun Jung , Kim Young Ho
Published: December 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to investigate whether findings detected by temporomandibular joint magnetic resonance imaging (TMJ‐MRI) can provide pathognomonic evidence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients with nonspecific ear fullness (EF). The association of nonspecific EF with clinical characteristics of TMD based on TMJ‐MRI findings was examined.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Methods

Thirty‐four subjects (42 ears) who had no detectable otologic problems as a cause of EF were enrolled in this study. Each subject underwent TMJ‐MRI to identify pathology of the TMJ as a possible cause of nonspecific EF. All subjects participated in the re‐evaluation process following TMD treatment.

Results

Anatomical abnormalities in TMJ‐MRI, irrespective of TMD signs, were observed in 34 of the 42 ears (80.9%), such as degenerative change of the TMJ (16 ears), articular disc displacement (11 ears), and joint effusion (seven ears). Specific abnormalities of the TMJ were associated with nonspecific EF, and this symptom showed improvement following individualized TMD treatment in those with internal derangement and/or effusion of the TMJ. However, abnormal TMJ‐MRI findings were also observed in seven of nine ears with no TMD signs, and there was no significant association between the presence of TMD signs and abnormal TMJ‐MRI findings (χ2 = 0.075, P = .784).

Conclusions

Patients presenting with nonspecific EF may have TMD, which can be effectively diagnosed using TMJ‐MRI. The present study revealed the causal relationship between nonspecific EF and abnormal TMJ findings based on MRI. Individualized TMD treatments based on TMJ‐MRI led to improved treatment outcomes with special regard to nonspecific EF

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1692–1698, 2018
Brain volume changes in hyposmic patients before and after olfactory training
Authors: Gellrich Janine , Han Pengfei , Manesse Cedric , Betz Amelie , Junghanns Anne , Raue Claudia , Schriever Valentin A. , Hummel Thomas
Published: December 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Olfactory dysfunction is thought to be associated with reduced gray matter (GM) volume in olfactory‐related brain areas. The aim of this study was to determine GM structural changes within olfactory‐related regions of the brain in patients with smell loss due to upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) before and after olfactory rehabilitation.

Study Design

Prospective intervention case‐control study.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging structural brain images were collected from 30 patients with smell loss due to URTI and 31 controls. Patients exposed themselves to odors (olfactory training [OT]) over 12 weeks and then were rescanned. Olfactory testing was performed using the validated Sniffin' Sticks test. GM was investigated with voxel‐based morphometry.

Results

GM volumes were found to be reduced in the limbic system and thalamus among pretraining patients compared to controls; in patients, OT was associated with a significant increase of GM volume in these two regions. The GM volume within other olfactory‐related regions was not different between patients and controls. In addition, no relevant difference between the GM volume pre‐ and post‐OT was observed in primary olfactory‐related regions.

Conclusions

OT was associated with an increase in GM volume of the hippocampus and the thalamus, possibly pointing toward a strategy for more effective exploitation of olfactory signals based on a higher degree of attention toward odors and association of memories with olfactory input.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 128:1531–1536, 2018
Phases or regimes? Revisiting NDVI trends as proxies for land degradation
Authors: Easdale Marcos Horacio , Bruzzone Octavio , Mapfumo Paul , Tittonell Pablo
Published: December 2017

One of the main challenges in land degradation assessment is that a rigorous and systematic approach to addressing its complex dynamics is still missing. The development and application of operative tools at regional and global scales remain a challenge. Land degradation is usually defined as a long‐term decline in ecosystem function and productivity. Due to its temporal and spatial resolution as well as data availability, the use of time series of spectral vegetation indexes obtained from satellite sensors has become frequent in recent studies in this field. Slope of linear trends of the normalized difference vegetation index is usually considered an accurate indicator and is widely used as a proxy for land degradation. Yet this method is built on a number of simplifying conceptual and methodological assumptions that prevent capturing more complex dynamics, such as cyclic or periodic behaviors. Our aim was to examine the limitations associated with using linear normalized difference vegetation index trends as proxies for land degradation by comparing outcomes with an alternative methodological procedure based on wavelet autoregressive methods. We explored these issues in 5 case studies from Africa and South America. We observed that trend explained a marginal portion of total temporal variability, whereas monotonic functions, such as linear trends, were unable to capture dynamics that were non‐unidirectional, resulting in misinterpretation of actual trends. Wavelet autoregressive method results were encouraging as a step towards the application of more accurate methods to provide sound scientific information of land degradation and restoration.
21st Century Advances in Fluorescence Techniques to Characterize Glass‐Forming Polymers at the Nanoscale
Authors: Burroughs Mary J. , Christie Dane , Gray Laura A. G. , Chowdhury Mithun , Priestley Rodney D.
Published: December 2017

Characterization of polymers at the nanometer‐length scale has become increasingly important with the growth and expansion of nanotechnology. Due to limitations of sensitivity and specificity that persist with traditional materials characterization techniques, there is a growing need to develop new tools to measure the properties of confined polymer systems. Within the past 20 years, fluorescence characterization techniques have emerged to address this challenge. This review focuses on the employment of fluorescence techniques such as temperature‐ and time‐dependent steady‐state intensity, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, and nonradiative energy transfer to study polymer behavior at the nanoscale. Properties discussed include glass transition temperature, physical aging, diffusion and mobility, and mechanical response. Particular attention is given to the unique insight gained through these techniques as well as opportunities for future studies. The ability of fluorescence to obtain location‐ and component‐specific measurements with nanometer resolution for a variety of polymer chemistries and geometries on a bench‐top instrument provides a valuable contribution to the characterization and understanding of polymers at the nanoscale.
For Indian online shoppers, have saying and doing parted ways?
Authors: Mishra Manit
Published: December 2017

Grounded in the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and based on both perceptual as well as behavioral data, the study explores e‐service quality (e‐SQ) dimensions’ influence on merchandise value perception (MVP) and how these value perceptions, in turn, impact shopper loyalty intention, finally leading to word‐of‐mouth (WOM) and store patronization behavior. The model was tested for measurement and structural validity, mediation by MVP, and moderation by gender. Findings suggest that: (1) e‐SQ dimensions of efficiency and fulfillment have direct effect on MVP; (2) MVP is a key mediating variable facilitating “indirect‐only” mediation between e‐SQ dimensions and online shoppers’ loyalty intentions; (3) mediation by MVP is not moderated by gender; (4) strong association between shoppers’ loyalty intention and intention to spread positive WOM; and (5) “saying” and “doing” are incompatible because online shoppers’ loyalty intentions or WOM do not translate into store patronization behavior.
Mitochondrial dysfunction RAD51, and Ku80 proteolysis promote apoptotic effects of Dinaciclib in Bcl‐xL silenced cells
Authors: Premkumar Daniel R. , Jane Esther P. , Thambireddy Swetha , Sutera Philip A. , Cavaleri Jonathon M. , Pollack Ian F.
Published: December 2017

In the present study, we investigated the effect of CDK inhibitors (ribociclib, palbociclib, seliciclib, AZD5438, and dinaciclib) on malignant human glioma cells for cell viability, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function using various assays. None of the CDK inhibitors induced cell death at a clinically relevant concentration. However, low nanomolar concentrations of dinaciclib showed higher cytotoxic activity against Bcl‐xL silenced cells in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner. This effect was not seen with other CDK inhibitors. The apoptosis‐inducing capability of dinaciclib in Bcl‐xL silenced cells was evidenced by cell shrinkage, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, and increased phosphatidylserine externalization. Dinaciclib was found to disrupt mitochondrial membrane potential, resulting in the release of cytochrome c, AIF, and smac/DIABLO into the cytoplasm. This was accompanied by the downregulation of cyclin‐D1, D3, and total Rb. Dinaciclib caused cell cycle arrest in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner and with accumulation of cells in the sub‐G1 phase. Our results also revealed that dinaciclib, but not ribociclib or palbociclib or seliciclib or AZD5438 induced intrinsic apoptosis via upregulation of the levels of pro‐apoptotic proteins (Bax and Bak), resulting in the activation of caspases and cleavage of PARP. We also found an additional mechanism for the dinaciclib‐induced augmentation of apoptosis due to abrogation RAD51‐cyclin D1 interaction, specifically proteolysis of the DNA repair proteins RAD51 and Ku80. Our results suggest that successfully interfering with Bcl‐xL function may restore sensitivity to dinaciclib and could hold the promise for an effective combination therapeutic strategy.
A triangular nonlinear reaction‐fractional diffusion system with a balance law
Authors: Alsaedi Ahmed , Al‐Yami Maryam , Kirane Mokhtar , Momenkhan Faten
Published: December 2017

The aim of this paper is to establish a global existence result for a nonlinear reaction diffusion system with fractional Laplacians of different orders and a balance law. Our method of proof is based on a duality argument and a recent maximal regularity result due to Zhang.