bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Shocks and Household Welfare in Zambia: An Assessment of Changing Risk
Authors: Hangoma Peter , Aakvik Arild , Robberstad Bjarne
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the effect of a disabling health shock, injury, on household health expenditure and welfare in Zambia before and after 2002, a year that marks an end to a period of tightening structural reforms. Results show that injury was associated with lower consumption and reduced earned income in both periods. Injury almost doubled health expenditure after 2002, an effect which was more modest before 2002. Households relied on informal borrowing and selling assets as self‐insurance strategies. These findings suggest that social protection programmes should not only focus on health insurance but also labour income protection. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The middle and inner ears of the Palaeogene golden mole Namachloris: A comparison with extant species
Authors: Mason Matthew J. , Bennett Nigel C. , Pickford Martin
Published: December 2017

Many living species of golden moles (Chrysochloridae) have greatly enlarged middle ear ossicles, believed to be used in the detection of ground vibrations through inertial bone conduction. Other unusual features of chrysochlorids include internally coupled middle ear cavities and the loss of the tensor tympani muscle. Our understanding of the evolutionary history of these characteristics has been limited by the paucity of fossil evidence. In this article, we describe for the first time the exquisitely preserved middle and inner ears of Namachloris arenatans from the Palaeogene of Namibia, visualised using computed tomography, as well as ossicles attributed to this species. We compare the auditory region of this fossil golden mole, which evidently did not possess a hypertrophied malleus, to those of three extant species with similarly sized ear ossicles, Amblysomus hottentotus, Calcochloris obtusirostris, and Huetia leucorhinus. The auditory region of Namachloris shares many common features with the living species, including a pneumatized, trabeculated basicranium and lateral skull wall, arteries and nerves of the middle ear contained in bony tubes, a highly coiled cochlea, a secondary crus commune, and no identifiable canaliculus cochleae for the perilymphatic duct. However, Namachloris differs from extant golden moles in the apparent absence of a basicranial intercommunication between the right and left ears, the possession of a tensor tympani muscle and aspects of ossicular morphology. One Namachloris skull showed what may be pneumatization of some of the dorsal cranial bones, extending right around the brain. Although the ossicles are small in absolute terms, one of the Huetia leucorhinus specimens had a more prominent malleus head than the other. This potentially represents a previously unrecognised subspecific difference.
Identification and characterization of antibodies elicited by human cystatin C fragment
Authors: Behrendt Izabela , Prądzińska Martyna , Spodzieja Marta , Czaplewska Paulina , Kołodziejczyk Aleksandra S. , Szymańska Aneta , Kasprzykowski Franciszek , Lundström Susanna L. , Zubarev Roman A. , Rodziewicz‐Motowidło Sylwia
Published: December 2017

Amyloid formation is associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases that affect the independence and quality of life of aging populations. One of rather atypical, occurring at a young age amyloidosis is hereditary cystatin C amyloid angiopathy (HCCAA) related to aggregation of L68Q variant of human cystatin C (hCC). Human cystatin C plays a very important role in many aspects of human health; however, its amyloidogenic properties manifested in HCCAA present a real, lethal threat to some populations and any work on factors that can affect possible influencing hCC aggregation is not to overestimate. It was proved that interaction of hCC with monoclonal antibodies suppresses significantly hCC dimerization process. Therefore, immunotherapy seems to be the right approach toward possible HCCAA treatment. In this work, the hCC fragment encompassing residue 60‐70 (in 2 variants: linear peptide and multiple antigenic peptide) was used as an immunogen in rabbit immunization. As a result, specific anti‐hCC antibodies were found in both rabbit sera. Surprisingly, rabbit antibodies were obtained after immunization with only a short peptide. The obtained antibodies were characterized, and their influence on the aggregation propensity of the hCC molecules was evaluated. The antibodies turned out not to have any significant influence on the cystatin C dimerization process. Nevertheless, we hope that antibodies elicited in rabbits by other hCC fragments could lead to elaboration of effective treatment against HCCAA.
Vitronectin (Vn) glycosylation patterned by lectin affinity assays—A potent glycoproteomic tool to discriminate plasma Vn from cancer ascites Vn
Authors: Benachour H. , Leroy‐Dudal J. , Agniel R. , Wilson J. , Briand M. , Carreiras F. , Gallet O.
Published: December 2017

Changes in glycosylation have been associated with human cancer, but their complexity poses an analytical challenge. Ovarian cancer is a major cause of death in women because of an often late diagnosis. At least one‐third of patients presents ascites fluid at diagnosis, and almost all have ascites at recurrence. Vitronectin (Vn) is a multifunctional glycoprotein that is suggested to be implicated in ovarian cancer metastasis and is found within ascites. The present study evaluated the potential of using lectin affinity for characterizing the glycosylation pattern of Vn. Human Vn was purified from 1 sample of ovarian cancer ascites or a pool of plasma samples. Consistent findings were observed with both dot blot and lectin array assays. Based on a panel of 40 lectins, the lectin array revealed discriminant patterns of lectin binding to Vn glycans. Interestingly, almost all the highlighted interactions were found to be higher with Vn from ascites relative to the plasma counterpart. Also, the lectin array was able to discriminate profiles of lectin interactions (ConA, SNA‐I, PHA‐E, PHA‐L) between Vn samples that were not evident using dot blot, indicating its high sensitivity. The model of ConA binding during thermal unfolding of Vn confirmed the higher accessibility of mannosylated glycans in Vn from ascites as monitored by turbidimetry. Thus, this study demonstrated the usefulness of lectins and the lectin array as a glycoproteomic tool for high throughput and sensitive analysis of glycosylation patterns. Our data provide novel insights concerning Vn glycosylation patterns in clinical specimens, paving the way for further investigations regarding their functional impact and clinical interest.
Multiparametric characterization of response to anti‐angiogenic therapy using USPIO contrast‐enhanced MRI in combination with dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Kim Jana , Kim Eugene , Euceda Leslie R. , Meyer Dan E. , Langseth Karina , Bathen Tone F. , Moestue Siver A. , Huuse Else Marie
Published: December 2017

Background

Steady state susceptibility contrast (SSC)‐MRI provides information on vascular morphology but is a rarely used method.

Purpose

To investigate the utility of the ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (USPIOs) GEH121333 for measuring tumor response to bevacizumab and compare this with gadolinium‐based DCE‐MRI.

Study Type

Prospective preclinical animal model study.

ANIMAL MODEL

Mice bearing subcutaneous TOV‐21G human ovarian cancer xenografts treated with bevacizumab (n = 9) or saline (n = 9).

Field Strength/Sequence

Imaging was performed on a 7T Bruker Biospec. For SSC‐MRI with GEH121333 we acquired R1‐maps (RARE‐sequence with variable TR), R2‐maps (multi‐spin echo), and
‐maps (multi‐gradient echo). Additionally, R1 and R2 maps were measured on the days after USPIO injection. For DCE‐MRI with gadodiamide we acquired 200 T1‐weighted images (RARE‐sequence).

Assessment

ΔR1, ΔR2, and
maps were computed from SSC‐MRI. DCE‐MRI was analysed using the extended Tofts model.

Statistical Tests

Results from pre‐ and 3 days posttreatment SSC‐MRI were compared using paired‐sample t‐tests. Treatment and control groups were compared using independent sample t‐tests. Performance of SSC‐ and DCE‐MRI was compared using multivariate partial least squares discriminant analysis.

Results

Already one day after treatment and USPIO injection, R1 and R2 values were lower in treated (R1 = 0.49 ± 0.03s−1, R2 = 23.07 ± 1.49s−1) compared with control tumors (R1 = 0.52 ± 0.02s−1, R2 = 24.98 ± 1.01s−1), indicating lower USPIO accumulation. Posttreatment SSC‐MRI displayed significantly decreased tumor blood volume (change in ΔR2 = ‐0.43 ± 0.26s−1, P = 0.001) and vessel density (change in Q = ‐0.032 ± 0.020s−1/3, P = 0.002). DCE‐MRI showed among others lower Ktrans in treated tumors (control = 0.064 ± 0.011min−1, tx = 0.046 ± 0.008min−1, P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis suggests that SSC‐MRI was slightly inferior to DCE‐MRI in distinguishing treated from control tumors (accuracy = 75%, P = 0.058 versus 80%, P = 0.028), but a combination of both was best (accuracy = 85%; P = 0.003).

Data Conclusion

SSC‐MRI with GEH121333 is sensitive to early (<24 h) and late changes in tumor vasculature. SSC‐MRI and DCE‐MRI provide complementary information and can be used to assess different aspects of vascular responses to anti‐angiogenic therapies.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1589–1600.
Acceleration of the partial element equivalent circuit method with uniform tessellation—part I: Identification of geometrical signatures
Authors: Romano Daniele , Lombardi Luigi , Antonini Giulio
Published: December 2017

Electromagnetic numerical modeling has become crucial for the design deployment and operation of new electrical and electronic devices and systems especially for its capability to address electromagnetic compatibility and interference issues. In this regard, accurate and efficient numerical techniques are required for effective and fast virtual prototyping. This paper presents a novel technique to speedup the computation of partial elements describing the magnetic and electric field couplings in the framework of the partial element equivalent circuit method. When dealing with uniform tessellation of 3D geometries, including Manhattan‐type meshes and also nonorthogonal ones characterized by hexahedra with comparable sizes, a huge number of configurations are repeated under only translation and rotation transformations. Through an efficient identification of these geometrical signatures, the calculation of volume and surface integrals required to fill the partial element matrices, namely, partial inductances and coefficients of potential, can be significantly accelerated. To this aim, assuming a uniform tessellation of volumes and surfaces, a complete algorithm is presented to systematically identify all the signatures and manage them, thus allowing a significant speedup of the partial element matrices filling‐in process. Being based on a systematic identification of the different patterns, the proposed method does not introduce any approximation. Numerical examples are presented pointing out the correctness and efficiency of the proposed approach.
Characterizing Indian meteorological moisture anomaly condition using long‐term (1901–2013) gridded data: a multivariate moisture anomaly index approach
Authors: Das Prabir Kumar , Midya Subrata Kumar , Das Dilip Kumar , Rao Goru Srinivas , Raj Uday
Published: December 2017

The long‐term (1901–2013) gridded rainfall and potential evapotranspiration (PET) data were utilized to develop a new index, multivariate moisture anomaly index (MMAI), for characterizing the meteorological moisture anomaly condition during monsoon season over Indian region. The 6‐month timescale standardized precipitation index (SPI) and standardized evapotranspiration index (SEI) were computed using time series rainfall and PET data using gamma and log‐logistic distribution, respectively. The long‐term seasonal SPI and SEI were converted into moisture anomaly magnitude and duration information, and their trends were analysed using Sen's slope and Mann–Kendall test, respectively. The standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) at 6‐month timescale was also analysed to find the impact of rainfall and PET on meteorological moisture anomaly. Both the trends and probability analysis showed that SPEI was mainly representing the trends and pattern of SPI only and was unable to capture the impact of PET. The MMAI was developed by fitting the time series SPI and SEI information into different joint probability distribution and by adapting the best model for each grid. The new index was able to consider the impact of both rainfall and PET. Based on the MMAI trend analysis, it was found that the overall moisture anomaly was decreasing in northwest (NW) India, whereas it was increasing in northeast (NE), central and peninsular India. The trends analysis of SPI and SEI depicted that in NW India the significant decrease in moisture anomaly may be due to both increase in rainfall and decrease in PET, whereas in NE India the significant increase in moisture anomaly may be due to both increase in PET and decrease in rainfall. In eastern and Gujarat coast the increase in moisture anomaly may be attributed to increase in PET whereas the significant increase in rainfall might lead to reduced moisture anomaly over western coast.
Temperature‐extreme precipitation scaling: a two‐way causality?
Authors: Barbero R. , Westra S. , Lenderink G. , Fowler H. J.
Published: December 2017

Extreme precipitation events are widely thought to intensify in a warmer atmosphere through the Clausius‐Clapeyron equation. The temperature‐extreme precipitation scaling was proposed to analyse the temperature dependency of short‐duration extreme precipitation and since then, the concept has been widely used in climatology. Bao et al. (2017) suggest that the apparent scaling reflects not only how surface air properties affect extreme precipitation, but also reflects how synoptic conditions and localized cooling due to the storm itself affect the scaling – implying two‐way causality. We address here critical issues of this paper and provide evidence that dew point temperature drives extreme precipitation, with the direction of causality reversed only for the storm's peak intensity. This physical inference may serve as a basis to better quantify scaling rates and to help establish the relationship between extreme precipitation and environmental conditions in the current climate, and thereby provide insights into future changes to precipitation extremes due to climate change.
Possible impacts of a changing climate on intense Ligurian Sea rainfall events
Authors: Gallus William A. , Parodi Antonio , Maugeri Maurizio
Published: December 2017

The region near the Ligurian Sea in northwestern Italy occasionally experiences extreme rainfall events that can lead to catastrophic flooding. These events are often caused by back‐building mesoscale convective systems whose occurrence peaks during the autumn. Rapid warming of the Mediterranean Sea in recent decades has raised concerns that the warmer water may change the frequency or intensity of these rainfall events. To gain insight into possible impacts of the warming climate, surface wind and precipitation output from 12‐km horizontal grid spacing EXPRESS‐Hydro simulations of past and future climate are used to examine trends in the frequency of strong convergence and heavy rainfall events during both the past and the future climate. Strong convergence events are not found to increase in frequency in the future climate, but the rainfall associated with these events does increase. The area that experiences rainfall above a specified threshold along with the duration over which such conditions are experienced increases, especially during the autumn when increases are statistically significant. Peak 3‐hourly rainfall at a grid point does not increase in the future climate but total rain volume associated with these events does, reflecting the larger areal coverage and duration of the events.
Mechanical properties of Triclosan sutures
Authors: Jungwirth‐Weinberger Anna , Grubhofer Florian , Imam Mohamed A. , Bachmann Elias , Wirth Stephan
Published: December 2017

To avoid infections and wound healing disorders, Triclosan coated sutures have been invented. Little is known of these sutures regarding their tensile properties. Three different Triclosan coated sutures (Vicryl 1 plus, PDS 0 plus, Monocryl 3‐0 plus) were tested at several time points over 42 days regarding load to failure, strain, and stiffness compared to their non‐coated versions (Vicryl 1, PDS 0, Monocryl 3‐0). Four different measurement points were made. Suture loops were fixed in a material testing machine over two metal bars which were moved apart creating a stress to the fiber. Unpaired, two‐tailed t‐test were performed for each group (untreated and treated) while level of significance was defined at a level of p < 0.05. Vicryl 1 was significantly stronger on day 14 than Vicryl 1 plus (p = 0.033). On day 28, significant changes were found in PDS 0 which was weaker compared to PDS 0 plus (p = 0.039) and Vicryl 1 which was stronger than Vicryl 1 plus (p = 0.032). We have seen that Vicryl 1 plus sutures are significantly weaker according to loading to failure after 14 and 28 days, which might cause incisional hernias. PDS 0 sutures are used to reconstruct tendons, therefore a longer durableness might be of interest as re‐ruptures of tendons are problematic. Our in vitro findings support, the use of Triclosan coated PDS plus sutures and Vicryl sutures as they show a longer resistance. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1777–1782, 2018.
Clinical outcomes in breast angiosarcoma patients: A rare tumor with unique challenges
Authors: Gervais Mai‐Kim , Burtenshaw Sally M. , Maxwell Jessica , Dickson Brendan c. , Catton Charles N. , Blackstein Martin , McCready David , Escallon Jaime , Gladdy Rebecca A.
Published: December 2017

Background

Breast angiosarcoma (AS) accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancers. The goal of this study was to determine patient outcomes in radiation‐associated angiosarcoma of the breast (RAAS) and sporadic AS. We evaluated patterns of recurrence and predictors of breast AS survival.

Methods

Patients with pathologically confirmed AS from 1994 to 2014 referred to Mount Sinai Hospital/Princess Margaret Cancer Centre were included. Primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes were disease‐free survival (DFS), clinicopathologic characteristics, patterns of recurrence and factors predictive of survival. Kaplan‐Meier and log‐rank tests were used for OS and DFS.

Results

Twenty‐six patients were included: 6 with sporadic AS and 20 with RAAS. Median follow‐up was 24 months. Five‐year OS for RAAS and sporadic subgroups were 44% and 40%, respectively (P = ns). Five‐year DFS for RAAS and sporadic subgroups were 23% and 20%, respectively (P = ns). Overall recurrence rate was 67% with median time to recurrence of 11 months. Age, tumor depth, margin status, and tumor size were not statistically significant predictive factors for OS and DFS.

Discussion

Breast AS is associated with poor survival and high recurrence rates. Prognosis may be mainly determined by its aggressive biology. Referral to tertiary care centers for multimodality treatment is recommended.
Perioperative cytokine levels portend early death after pancreatectomy for ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lewis Heather L. , Chakedis Jeff M. , Talbert Erin , Haverick Ericka , Rajasekera Priyani , Hart Philip , Bloomston Mark , Dillhoff Mary , Pawlik Timothy M. , Guttridge Denis , Schmidt Carl R.
Published: December 2017

Background

Soluble signaling molecules may play an important role in malignant pathogenesis. We hypothesize that perioperative cytokine levels are associated with outcomes in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) undergoing surgical resection.

Methods

One hundered and eighteen patients with benign or malignant pancreatic disease were enrolled in a prospective study through a protocol for banking biologic samples. Peripheral blood was drawn at time of operation, and a multiplex cytokine assay was performed. Statistical analysis was via χ2 and Kaplan Meier methods.

Results

Of 118 patients enrolled, 85 (72%) had a diagnosis of PDAC, and 60 (70%) ultimately underwent partial pancreatectomy. Cytokine levels were not associated with postoperative complications in this initial cohort. A plasma level of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) pg/mL ≤118 was associated with better overall survival (OS) (median survival 21 months vs 12.8 months, P = 0.023), as was non‐detectable interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) (19 months) versus detectable IL‐8 (12.8 months, P = 0.05). Patients with both MCP‐1 >118 pg/mL and detectable IL‐8 had a median survival of 10.6 months (P = 0.028).

Conclusions

MCP‐1 and IL‐8 cytokine levels are associated with decreased survival following pancreatectomy for PDAC, and may be useful biomarkers. Measurement of these cytokine levels at different time points in future investigations will be important to validate these findings.
Diagnostic staging laparoscopy in gastric cancer treatment: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Li Kevin , Cannon John G.D. , Jiang Sam Y. , Sambare Tanmaya D. , Owens Douglas K. , Bendavid Eran , Poultsides George A.
Published: December 2017

Background and Objectives

Accurate preoperative staging helps avert morbidity, mortality, and cost associated with non‐therapeutic laparotomy in gastric cancer (GC) patients. Diagnostic staging laparoscopy (DSL) can detect metastases with high sensitivity, but its cost‐effectiveness has not been previously studied. We developed a decision analysis model to assess the cost‐effectiveness of preoperative DSL in GC workup.

Methods

Analysis was based on a hypothetical cohort of GC patients in the U.S. for whom initial imaging shows no metastases. The cost‐effectiveness of DSL was measured as cost per quality‐adjusted life‐year (QALY) gained. Drivers of cost‐effectiveness were assessed in sensitivity analysis.

Results

Preoperative DSL required an investment of $107 012 per QALY. In sensitivity analysis, DSL became cost‐effective at a threshold of $100 000/QALY when the probability of occult metastases exceeded 31.5% or when test sensitivity for metastases exceeded 86.3%. The likelihood of cost‐effectiveness increased from 46% to 93% when both parameters were set at maximum reported values.

Conclusions

The cost‐effectiveness of DSL for GC patients is highly dependent on patient and test characteristics, and is more likely when DSL is used selectively where procedure yield is high, such as for locally advanced disease or in detecting peritoneal and superficial versus deep liver lesions.
A simple approach to prepare a sulfone‐embedded stationary phase for HPLC
Authors: Liu Dan , Qiao Ting , Liu Haiyan , Wang Xiaoling , Shi Zhi‐guo
Published: December 2017

In the present study, a polar‐embedded reversed‐phase liquid chromatographic stationary phase that contained internal sulfone groups was prepared. The synthesis involved the “thiol‐ene” click chemistry between the vinyl functionalized silica and 1‐octadecanethiol, followed by the oxidization of sulfide to sulfone groups. The resulting material simultaneously possessed the alkyl chain, i.e. C18, and the internal sulfone groups. Elemental analysis demonstrates that the element contents of the C18/sulfone silica were C 8.94%, H 1.87% and S 0.66%. Chromatographic evaluations indicate that the C18/sulfone stationary phase exhibited a little less retention than the C18/sulfide one. A comparable chromatographic performance of neutral analytes was obtained on these two columns, but much better chromatographic performance in the case of basic and acid analytes was obtained on C18/sulfone stationary phase with additional features such as lower silanol activity, better stability (stable working conditions of pH 1.0–10.0), and better compatibility with 100% aqueous mobile phases. The batch‐to‐batch reproducibility was acceptable (the RSDs of retention times for the probes were no higher than 1.73%), demonstrating the suitability of the applied synthetic strategy for the new stationary phase. The C18/sulfone is a promising polar‐embedded RPLC stationary phase.
Trace quantification of selected sulfonamides in aqueous media by implementation of a new dispersive solid‐phase extraction method using a nanomagnetic titanium dioxide graphene‐based sorbent and HPLC‐UV
Authors: Izanloo Maryam , Esrafili Ali , Behbahani Mohammad , Ghambarian Mahnaz , Reza Sobhi Hamid
Published: December 2017

Herein, a new dispersive solid‐phase extraction method using a nano magnetic titanium dioxide graphene‐based sorbent in conjunction with high‐performance liquid chromatography and ultraviolet detection was successfully developed. The method was proved to be simple, sensitive, and highly efficient for the trace quantification of sulfacetamide, sulfathiazole, sulfamethoxazole, and sulfadiazine in relatively large volume of aqueous media. Initially, the nano magnetic titanium dioxide graphene‐based sorbent was successfully synthesized and subsequently characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. Then, the sorbent was used for the sorption and extraction of the selected sulfonamides mainly through π–π stacking hydrophobic interactions. Under the established conditions, the calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 1–200 μg/L. The limit of quantification (precision of 20%, and accuracy of 80–120%) for the detection of each sulfonamide by the proposed method was 1.0 μg/L. To test the extraction efficiency, the method was applied to various fortified real water samples. The average relative recoveries obtained from the fortified samples varied between 90 and 108% with the relative standard deviations of 5.3–10.7%.
Sense of place relationship with tourist satisfaction and intentional revisit: Evidence from Egypt
Authors: Abou‐Shouk Mohamed A. , Zoair Nagoua , El‐Barbary Mohamed N. , Hewedi Mahmoud M.
Published: December 2017

Sense of place is a multidimensional concept. It implies an emotional relationship between an individual and a setting. The current study aims to explore the predictors of place attachment, and measure the effect of place attachment and its predictors on tourist satisfaction, and how this satisfaction could affect tourist future revisits. Using structural equation modelling, this study provides evidence from two distinct places in Egypt: Bahariya Oasis/the White Desert and Fayoum. A questionnaire was used to collect data from repeat tourists to both places. The findings revealed that repeat tourists are place attached. This attachment is positively influencing tourist satisfaction and their intentional repeat visit. The findings of the study could be used to develop marketing strategies of destinations with sense of place dimensions. Tour operators and travel agents are requested to include sense of place dimensions in their tour packages. National authorities are invited to focus on sense of place dimensions in their destinations.
Subdermal Ultrasound Contrast Agent Injection for Sentinel Lymph Node Identification: An Analysis of Safety and Contrast Agent Dose in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Machado Priscilla , Stanczak Maria , Liu Ji‐Bin , Moore Jason N. , Eisenbrey John R. , Needleman Laurence , Kraft Walter K. , Forsberg Flemming
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Mapping of the lymphatic chain for identification of the sentinel lymph node (SLN) is an important aspect of predicting outcomes for patients with breast cancer, and it is usually performed as an intraoperative procedure using blue dye and/or radiopharmaceutical agents. Recently, the use of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been proposed as an alternative imaging technique for this mapping. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of subdermal administration of the ultrasound (US) contrast agent Sonazoid (GE Healthcare, Oslo, Norway) in terms of patient safety and to select the dose to be used for lymphatic applications in humans.

Methods

This study was performed in 12 female volunteers who received bilateral subdermal injections of Sonazoid (1 or 2 mL dose) in the mid‐upper outer quadrant of their breasts at 2 different time points. Contrast‐enhanced US examinations were performed 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 24 hours after injection to identify SLNs.

Results

Sentinel lymph nodes were identified within the first hour after injection as enhanced structures, and there was no significant difference by dose in the number of SLNs identified (P = .74). The volunteers only had minor adverse experiences (AEs) that resolved completely without intervention by study completion.

Conclusions

The subdermal use of Sonazoid in this study showed only minor local and nonsignificant AEs that were completely resolved without any intervention. Two different doses were compared with no significant differences observed between them. Hence, the lower dose studied (1 mL) was selected for use in future clinical studies.
Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma: History, current status, and opportunities
Authors: Meyer Jeffrey , Singal Amit G.
Published: December 2017

A variety of surgical and other local‐regional approaches to the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are in clinical use. External beam radiation therapy is a relative newcomer to the portfolio of treatment options. Advances in planning and delivery of radiation therapy, developing in parallel with and inspiring changing paradigms of tumor management in the field of radiation oncology, have led to growing interest in radiation therapy as a viable treatment option for HCC as well as other liver tumors. In this review, we discuss these advances, current trends in liver radiotherapy, as well as avenues of future clinical and basic research. Liver Transplantation 24 420–427 2018 AASLD.
Comparative Study of In Situ Loaded Antibody and PEG‐Fab NIPAAM Gels
Authors: Awwad Sahar , Al‐Shohani Athmar , Khaw Peng T. , Brocchini Steve
Published: December 2017

Hydrogels can potentially prolong the release of a therapeutic protein, especially to treat blinding conditions. One challenge is to ensure that the protein and hydrogel are intimately mixed by better protein entanglement within the hydrogel. N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAM) gels are optimized with poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEDGA) crosslinker in the presence of either bevacizumab or PEG conjugated ranibizumab (PEG10‐Fabrani). The release profiles of the hydrogels are evaluated using an outflow model of the eye, which is previously validated for human clearance of proteins. Release kinetics of in situ loaded bevacizumab‐NIPAAM gels displays a prolonged bimodal release profile in phosphate buffered saline compared to bevacizumab loaded into a preformed NIPAAM gel. Bevacizumab release in simulated vitreous from in situ loaded gels is similar to bevacizumab control indicating that diffusion through the vitreous rather than from the gel is rate limiting. Ranibizumab is site‐specifically PEGylated by disulfide rebridging conjugation. Prolonged and continuous release is observed with the in situ loaded PEG10‐Fabrani‐NIPAAM gels compared to PEG10‐Fabrani injection (control). Compared to an unmodified protein, there is better mixing due to PEG entanglement and compatibility of PEG10‐Fabrani within the NIPAAM‐PEDGA hydrogel. These encouraging results suggest that the extended release of PEGylated proteins in the vitreous can be achieved using injectable hydrogels.
Multiple‐Level Porous Polymer Monoliths with Interconnected Cellular Topology Prepared by Combining Hard Sphere and Emulsion Templating for Use in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Paljevac Muzafera , Gradišnik Lidija , Lipovšek Saška , Maver Uroš , Kotek Jiři , Krajnc Peter
Published: December 2017

A combination of hard sphere and high internal phase emulsion templating gives a platform for synthesizing hierarchically porous polymers with a unique topology exhibiting interconnected spherical features on multiple levels. Polymeric spheres are fused by thermal sintering to create a 3D monolithic structure while an emulsion with a high proportion of internal phase and monomers in the continuous phase is added to the voids of the previously constructed monolith. Following polymerization of the emulsion and dissolution of the templating structure, a down‐replicating topology is created with a primary level of pores as a result of fused spheres of the 3D monolithic structure, a secondary level of pores resulting from the emulsion's internal phase, and a tertiary level of interconnecting channels. Thiol‐ene chemistry with divinyladipate and pentaerythritol tetrakis(3‐mercaptopropionate) is used to demonstrate the preparation of a crosslinked polyester with overall porosity close to 90%. Due to multilevel porosity, such materials are interesting for applications in bone tissue engineering, possibly simulating the native sponge like bone structure. Their potential to promote ossteointegration is tested using human bone derived osteoblasts. Material–cell interactions are evaluated and they reveal growth and proliferation of osteoblasts both on surface and in the bulk of the scaffold.
A Dual‐Crosslinked Strategy to Construct Physical Hydrogels with High Strength, Toughness, Good Mechanical Recoverability, and Shape‐Memory Ability
Authors: Qin Zhihui , Niu Rui , Tang Chenjue , Xia Jun , Ji Feng , Dong Dianyu , Zhang Haitao , Zhang Shuo , Li Junjie , Yao Fanglian
Published: December 2017

A novel type of physical hydrogel based on dual‐crosslinked strategy is successfully synthesized by micellar copolymerization of stearyl methacrylate, acrylamide, and acrylic acid, and subsequent introduction of Fe3+. Strong hydrophobic associations among poly(stearyl methacrylate) blocks form the first crosslinking point and ionic coordination bonds between carboxyl groups and Fe3+ serve as the second crosslinking point. The mechanical properties of the hydrogel can be tuned in a wide range by controlling the densities of two crosslinks. The optimal hydrogel shows excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength of ≈6.8 MPa, elastic modulus of ≈8.0 MPa, elongation of ≈1000%, toughness of 53 MJ m−3) and good self‐recovery property. Furthermore, owing to stimuli responsiveness of physical interaction, this hydrogel also shows a triple shape memory effect. The combination of two different physical interactions in a single network provides a general strategy for designing of high‐strength hydrogels with functionalities.
Honeycomb Surface with Shape Memory Behavior Fabricated via Breath Figure Process
Authors: Wu Chien Hsin , Lu Chih Sheng , Chen Wei Lun , Tung Shih Huang , Jeng Ru Jong
Published: December 2017

A bio‐inspired honeycomb pattern that exhibits shape memory behavior is successfully fabricated via the breath figure process. By the surface modification along with a chemical crosslinking process to enhance the recoverability, this honeycomb‐like structure with shape memory behavior is realized. The surface wettability is dependent on the surface topography controlled by the deformation of temporary shape (elliptical circle) and recovery of the permanent shape (round circle) at the microscopic scales without the need of micromolding or expensive lithography strategy. This approach opens a facile route to an efficient, inexpensive, and versatile method to prepare films with switchable wettability.
The establishment of optimal ground‐based radar datasets by comparison and correlation analyses with space‐borne radar data
Authors: Han Jing , Chu Zhigang , Wang Zhenhui , Xu Dan , Li Nan , Kou Leilei , Xu Fen , Zhu Yiqing
Published: December 2017

Calibration error, due to ground‐based radar (GR) hardware parameters, introduces biases to GR reflectivity factor data. As a result of this, GR observations from the China new‐generation weather radar network have sometimes been found to be inconsistent, even when observing precipitation in the same area. In this paper a method, called the Available Best Comparable Data set (ABCD) method, is proposed. The method evaluates the radar reflectivity bias in GR datasets by using TRMM Standard Product (TSP) 2A25 data from Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite‐borne precipitation radar (PR). The analysis is supported by simultaneous measurement data from two precipitation events that occurred in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River between June and July 2010; data were collected during these events by three radars in Nanjing, Changzhou and Nantong (Jiangsu province, China). The ABCD method could correct deviations in the GR reflectivity factors; the GR‐corrected values were consistent with those observed by automatic weather stations. The method can be applied to improve the quality of precipitation data products from the GR network and their quantitative application for the southern region in China.
Single stage functional reconstruction of both peroneal tendons and overlying skin with an anterolateral thigh flap and vascularized fascia lata: A case report
Authors: Lykoudis Efstathios G. , Dalianoudis Ioannis , Seretis Konstantinos , Lykoudis George E. , Lykissas Marios G.
Published: December 2017

Reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects in the distal lower leg remains challenging, since anatomical constraints limit the local options available in this area. In this report, we present a case of single stage functional reconstruction of both peroneal tendons and overlying skin with an anterolateral thigh flap and vascularized fascia lata. A 55‐year‐old patient underwent wide excision of a synovial sarcoma in the distal lower leg, which resulted in a complex defect including the peroneus longus and brevis tendons (10 cm), and the overlying skin (14 × 8 cm). Functional reconstruction was achieved in a single stage with a composite anterolateral thigh flap with vascularized fascia lata of similar dimensions to those of the defect. The fascia lata component of the flap was longitudinally split in two segments. Each of them was rolled up, and that way, two separate vascularized neotendons were created. The neotendons bridged the gap of peroneal tendons, whereas the skin paddle of the flap provided stable soft tissue coverage to the reconstructed tendons. Flap pedicle was anastomosed to the anterior tibial vessels. Early and late postoperative periods were uneventful. Follow up at 1 year postoperatively showed excellent neotendon incorporation, as well as a very good functional and aesthetic outcome. The use of the method described may be a useful alternative in single stage functional reconstruction of composite defects comprising two or even more tendons and the overlying skin.
Plant Polyphenols Stimulate Adhesion to Intestinal Mucosa and Induce Proteome Changes in the Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM
Authors: Celebioglu Hasan Ufuk , Delsoglio Marta , Brix Susanne , Pessione Enrica , Svensson Birte
Published: December 2017

Scope

Plant phenolics, known to exert beneficial effects on human health, were supplemented to cultures of the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM (NCFM) to assess their effect on its adhesive capacity and the abundancy of individual proteins.

Methods and results

The presence of resveratrol and ferulic acid during bacterial growth stimulated adhesion of NCFM to mucin and human intestinal HT‐29 cells, while tannic acid improved adhesion only to HT‐29 cells and caffeic acid had very modest effect overall. Some dosage dependence was found for the four phenolics supplemented at 100, 250, and 500 μg mL−1 to the cultures. Notably, 500 μg mL−1 ferulic acid only stimulated adhesion to mucin. Analyses of differential whole‐cell as well as surface proteomes revealed relative abundancy changes for a total of 27 and 22 NCFM proteins, respectively. These changes include enzymes acting in metabolic pathways, such as glycolysis, nucleotide metabolism, and stress response, as well as known moonlighting or surface‐associated proteins.

Conclusion

The five plant phenolics found in various foods stimulate the adhesive capacity of NCFM in diverse ways and elicit relative abundancy changes of specific proteins, providing molecular level insight into the mechanism of the putative beneficial effects of the polyphenols.
Nerve ultrasound in polyneuropathies
Authors: Telleman Johan A. , Grimm Alexander , Goedee Stephan , Visser Leo H. , Zaidman Craig M.
Published: December 2017

Ultrasound can be used to visualize pathology in the peripheral nerves of patients with polyneuropathy. Nerve enlargement is the most frequent pathology, but other abnormalities, including abnormal nerve echogenicity and vascularity, are also encountered. This monograph presents an overview of the role of nerve ultrasound in the evaluation and management of both inherited and acquired polyneuropathies. A description of the sonographic techniques and common abnormalities is provided, followed by a presentation of typical findings in different neuropathies. Scoring systems for characterizing the presence and pattern of nerve abnormalities as they relate to different polyneuropathies are presented.Muscle Nerve57: 716–728, 2018
Assessing the influence of isoflurane anesthesia on cardiac metabolism using hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate
Authors: Steinhauser Jonas , Wespi Patrick , Kwiatkowski Grzegorz , Kozerke Sebastian
Published: December 2017

Isoflurane is a frequently used anesthetic in small‐animal dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization‐magnetic resonance imaging (DNP‐MRI) studies. Although the literature suggests interactions with mitochondrial metabolism, the influence of the compound on cardiac metabolism has not been assessed systematically to date. In the present study, the impact of low versus high isoflurane concentration was examined in a crossover experiment in healthy rats. The results revealed that cardiac metabolism is modulated by isoflurane concentration, showing increased [1‐13C]lactate and reduced [13C]bicarbonate production during high isoflurane relative to low isoflurane dose [average differences: +16% [1‐13C]lactate/total myocardial carbon, –22% [13C]bicarbonate/total myocardial carbon; +51% [1‐13C]lactate/[13C]bicarbonate]. These findings emphasize that reproducible anesthesia is important when studying cardiac metabolism. As the depth of anesthesia is difficult to control in an experimental animal setting, careful study design is required to exclude confounding factors.
Modeling of non‐Fickian diffusion and dissolution from a thin polymeric coating: An application to drug‐eluting stents
Authors: Gudiño E. , Oishi C. M. , Sequeira A.
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we present a general model for non‐Fickian diffusion and drug dissolution from a controlled drug delivery device coated with a thin polymeric layer. First, we study the stability and deduce an analytic solution to the problem. Then, we consider this solution and provide suitable boundary conditions to replace the problem of mass transport in the coating of a coronary drug‐eluting stent. With this approach, we reduced the computational cost of performing numerical simulations in complex 3‐dimensional geometries. The model for mass transport by a coronary drug‐eluting stent is coupled with a non‐Newtonian blood model flow. In order to show the effectiveness of the method, numerical experiments and a model validation with experimental data are also included. In particular, we investigate the influence of the non‐Newtonian flow regime on the drug deposition in the arterial wall.
A computational method based on Hermite wavelets for two‐dimensional Sobolev and regularized long wave equations in fluids
Authors: Oruç Ömer
Published: December 2017

This paper deals with the numerical solutions of two‐dimensional Sobolev and regularized long wave equations which commonly emerge in the flow of fluids or used to explain motion of wave in media. The proposed computational method in this paper is based on Hermite wavelets. We first discretize time derivatives in the considered equations by finite difference approaches then we use Hermite wavelets for discretization of space variables. By doing so computing the numerical solutions of Sobolev and regularized long wave equations is reduced to computing the solution of an algebraic system of equations whose solution gives Hermite wavelet coefficients. Then with these wavelet coefficients numerical solutions can be computed successively. The main objective of this paper is to indicate that Hermite wavelets based computational method is proper and efficient for two‐dimensional Sobolev and regularized long wave equations. We consider five test problems and calculate L2 and L∞ error norms for comparison of results of the current paper with the exact results and with the results of earlier studies based on such as finite difference, finite element and meshless methods. The obtained results verify the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method.
Leptin in Maternal Plasma and Cord Blood as a Predictor of Offspring Adiposity at 5 Years: A Follow‐up Study
Authors: Meyer Dorothy Marie , Brei Christina , Stecher Lynne , Much Daniela , Brunner Stefanie , Hauner Hans
Published: December 2017

Objective

Perinatal leptin exposure may modulate the risk of adiposity in early childhood. In previous analyses, negative associations between maternal (32 weeks' gestation) and cord blood leptin and offspring body composition at 2 years were observed.

Methods

Associations between maternal/cord blood leptin were assessed with indirect (i.e., body weight, BMI percentiles, sum of 4 skinfold thicknesses), and direct (i.e., ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging in a subgroup) growth and adipose tissue (AT) measurements in 120 children aged 3 to 5 years.

Results

Maternal leptin was not shown to be associated with offspring body composition in univariate analyses. In adjusted analyses, some weak negative associations were observed with weight and BMI percentiles but not with sum of 4 skinfold thicknesses or calculated body fat at 3 to 5 years. Cord blood leptin was inversely related to offspring body composition, but effect sizes were small and not consistently statistically significant. No evidence of associations with direct AT measurements was observed.

Conclusions

Although some negative relationships with indirect measurements of AT mass were observed, the results of this study do not provide sufficient evidence that maternal plasma or cord blood leptin is clinically relevant predictors of obesity or body fat distribution in early childhood.
A new method to visualize obesity prevalence in Seattle‐King County at the census block level
Authors: Drewnowski A. , Buszkiewicz J. , Aggarwal A. , Cook A. , Moudon A. V.
Published: December 2017

Objective

The aim of this study is to map obesity prevalence in Seattle King County at the census block level.

Methods

Data for 1,632 adult men and women came from the Seattle Obesity Study I. Demographic, socioeconomic and anthropometric data were collected via telephone survey. Home addresses were geocoded, and tax parcel residential property values were obtained from the King County tax assessor. Multiple logistic regression tested associations between house prices and obesity rates. House prices aggregated to census blocks and split into deciles were used to generate obesity heat maps.

Results

Deciles of property values for Seattle Obesity Study participants corresponded to county‐wide deciles. Low residential property values were associated with high obesity rates (odds ratio, OR: 0.36; 95% confidence interval, CI [0.25, 0.51] in tertile 3 vs. tertile 1), adjusting for age, gender, race, home ownership, education, and incomes. Heat maps of obesity by census block captured differences by geographic area.

Conclusion

Residential property values, an objective measure of individual and area socioeconomic status, are a useful tool for visualizing socioeconomic disparities in diet quality and health.