bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significant curative functions of the mesenchymal stem cells on methotrexate‐induced kidney and liver injuries in rats
Authors: Gad Amany M. , Hassan Wedad A. , Fikry Ebtehal Mohammad
Published: April 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) curative effects on methotrexate (MTX)‐induced kidney and liver injuries remain elusive. Therefore, rats were divided into five groups, rats received MTX orally (14 mg/kg) as a single dose/week for 2 weeks, groups 3 and 4 were injected once with 2 × 106 cells bone marrow MSCs and adipose‐derived MSCs, respectively. The last group administered dexamethasone (DEX) (0.5 mg/kg, p.o) for 7 days. MTX caused marked increase in malondialdehyde and nitrite/nitrate concentrations. However, MTX administration decreased reduced glutathione content plus catalase activity. In addition, MTX caused a significant increment in kidney and liver biomarkers levels. Moreover, MTX showed renal tubules vacuolation and necrosis of hepatocytes, as well expression of caspase‐3 and nuclear factor kappa beta in kidney and liver tissues were observed. MSCs treatment alleviated previous side effects induced by MTX. MSCs improved nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity induced by MTX to a better extent as compared with DEX.
MR elastography detection of early viscoelastic response of the murine hippocampus to amyloid β accumulation and neuronal cell loss due to Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Munder Tonia , Pfeffer Anna , Schreyer Stefanie , Guo Jing , Braun Juergen , Sack Ingolf , Steiner Barbara , Klein Charlotte
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To investigate in vivo viscoelastic parameters related to early histopathological changes in the hippocampus and the cortex in early, preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD) stages.

Materials and Methods

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) was applied to female APP23 mice, an established transgenic mouse model of AD, at three different stages early in disease progression. To investigate the potential therapeutic effects of physical, cognitive, and social stimulation on brain viscoelasticity and histopathological characteristics, MRE was also applied after exposing young APP23 mice to environmentally enriched cage conditions (ENR), for 1, 12, or 24 weeks, which corresponds to adolescent, young‐adult, and adult age at the time of analysis.

Results

Viscosity in the hippocampus of APP23 mice is lower than in controls (CTR) (P = 0.005) and does not increase with age, as in CTR mice (adolescent vs. young‐adult: P = 1.000, vs. adult: P = 0.493, young‐adult vs. adult: P = 1.000). Hippocampal cell numbers decrease with disease progression in APP23 mice (P < 0.001). Elasticity in the hippocampus is also reduced in APP23 mice (P = 0.024) but increases (P = 0.027) with disease progression. ENR in APP23 mice transiently increased hippocampal cell numbers (P = 0.002) but not viscosity (P = 0.838).

Conclusion

MRE detects alterations in viscoelasticity in the hippocampus related to early histopathological changes in the APP23 mouse model of AD.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:105–114.
Mapping water, oxygen, and pH dynamics in the rhizosphere of young maize roots
Authors: Rudolph-Mohr Nicole , Tötzke Christian , Kardjilov Nikolay , Oswald Sascha E.
Published: April 2017

Rhizosphere processes are highly dynamic in time and space and strongly depend on each other. Key factors influencing pH changes in the rhizosphere are root exudation, respiration, and nutrient supply, which are influenced by soil water content levels. In this study, we measured the real‐time distribution of soil water, pH changes, and oxygen distribution in the rhizosphere of young maize plants using a recently developed imaging approach. Neutron radiography was used to capture the root system and soil water distribution, while fluorescence imaging was employed to map soil pH and soil oxygen changes. Germinated seeds of maize (Zea mays L.) were planted in glass rhizotrons equipped with pH and oxygen‐sensitive sensor foils. After 20 d, the rhizotrons were wetted from the bottom and time‐lapsed images via fluorescence and neutron imaging were taken during the subsequent day and night cycles for 5 d. We found higher water content and stronger acidification in the first 0.5 mm from the root surface compared to the bulk soil, which could be a consequence of root exudation. While lateral roots only slightly acidified their rhizosphere, crown roots induced stronger acidification of up to 1 pH unit. We observed changing oxygen patterns at different soil moisture conditions and increasing towards lateral as well as crown roots while extending laterally with ongoing water logging. Our work indicates that plants alter the rhizosphere pH and oxygen also depending on root type, which may indirectly arise also from differences in age and water content changes. The results presented here were possible only by combining different imaging techniques to examine profiles at the root‐soil interface in a comprehensive way during wetting and drying.
Impact of major vascular resection on outcomes and survival in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A multi‐institutional analysis
Authors: Reames Bradley N. , Ejaz Aslam , Koerkamp Bas Groot , Alexandrescu Sorin , Marques Hugo P. , Aldrighetti Luca , Maithel Shishir K. , Pulitano Carlo , Bauer Todd W. , Shen Feng , Poultsides George A. , Martel Guillaume , Marsh James Wallis , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: April 2017

Background

Major vascular involvement (IVC or portal vein) for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) has traditionally been considered a contraindication to resection. We sought to define perioperative outcomes and survival of ICC patients undergoing hepatectomy with major vascular resection in a large international multi‐institutional database.

Methods

A total of 1087 ICC patients who underwent curative‐intent hepatectomy between 1990 and 2016 were identified from 13 institutions. Multivariable logistic and cox regressions were used to determine the impact of major vascular resection on perioperative and survival outcomes.

Results

Of 1087 patients who underwent resection, 128 (11.8%) also underwent major vascular resection (21 [16.4%] IVC resections, 98 [76.6%] PV resections, 9 [7.0%] combined resections). Despite more advanced disease, major vascular resection was not associated with the risk of any complication (OR = 0.68, 95%CI 0.32‐1.45) or major complications (OR = 0.95, 95%CI 0.49‐2.00). Post‐operative mortality was also comparable between groups (OR = 1.05, 95%CI 0.32‐3.47). In addition, median recurrence‐free (14.0 vs 14.7 months, HR = 0.737, 95%CI 0.49‐1.10) and overall (33.4 vs 40.2 months, HR = 0.71, 95%CI 0.359‐1.40) survival were similar among patients who did and did not undergo major vascular resection (both P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Among patients with ICC, major vascular resection was not associated with worse perioperative or oncologic outcomes. Concurrent major vascular resection should be considered in appropriately selected patients with ICC undergoing hepatectomy.
Clinical prognostic markers in stage IIIC melanoma
Authors: Madu Max F. , Schopman Jaap H.H. , Berger Danique M.S. , Klop Willem M.C. , Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Wouters Michel W.J.M. , van der Hage Jos A. , van Akkooi Alexander C.J.
Published: April 2017

Background

Although the EORTC 18071‐trial has shown a clear survival benefit for adjuvant ipilimumab, accurately selecting patients for this toxic adjuvant therapy is important. We aimed to identify prognostic factors for death and disease recurrence in AJCC stage IIIC melanoma patients.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent lymph node dissection (LND) for stage IIIC melanoma in our institution between 2000 and 2016. Baseline characteristics, melanoma‐specific survival (MSS), and disease‐free survival (DFS) were assessed, and prognostic factors for recurrence and survival were analyzed using uni‐ and multivariable analysis.

Results

A total of 205 patients were included. Median follow‐up was 20 months (interquartile range 11‐43 months), median MSS was 28 months, and median DFS was 11 months. Five‐year MSS was 33% and 5‐year DFS was 23%. N3 (≥4 involved lymph nodes) and extracapsular extension (ECE) carried an increased risk of disease recurrence after LND and death by melanoma. Patients with both N3 and ECE had virtually no long‐term survival.

Conclusions

Although survival for patients with stage IIIC is poor in general, patients with both N3 disease and ECE constitute the group with the worst prognosis and should be considered for adjuvant therapy with ipilimumab or any other future effective adjuvant therapy (study).
Evaluation of Liver, Kidney, and Spleen Elasticity in Healthy Newborns and Infants Using Shear Wave Elastography
Authors: Palabiyik Figen Bakirtas , Inci Ercan , Turkay Rustu , Bas Derya
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Elasticity measurements of tissues can be valuable in the diagnosis and management of various diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the elasticity values for normal liver, kidney, and spleen of healthy newborns and infants using shear wave elastography (SWE) imaging.

Methods

A total of 50 healthy term newborns and infants (19 girls and 31 boys; mean age 20.1 days, range 1 to 70 days) were examined by an experienced pediatric radiologist using SWE. None of them had any liver, kidney or spleen disease, or any other systemic disease that could affect these organs secondarily. All newborns and infants had a normal abdominal ultrasound scan.

Results

Age, sex, weight, height, and body mass index had no significant effects on shear wave velocity (SWV) values of liver and spleen. The SWV values of both kidneys decreased with age, weight, height, and body mass index. The mean SWV values were 1.70 m/s (range: 1.23–2.43 m/s) for the liver, 1.69 m/s (range: 0.8–2.40 m/s) for the right kidney, 1.70 m/s (range: 0.9–2.49 m/s) for the left kidney, and 2.03 m/s (range: 1.28–2.48 m/s) for the spleen.

Conclusions

Shear wave elastography can be used to measure liver, kidney, and spleen elasticity in newborns and infants. The standard values for abdominal organs allow differentiation of healthy versus pathological tissue. We measured the normal values of SWE in healthy newborns and infants as reference data.
Prophylactic dissection of level V in primary mucosal SCC in the clinically N positive neck: A systematic review
Authors: McLean Timothy , Kerr Stephen J. , Giddings Charles E. B.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To review the evidence for level V dissection in the management of previously untreated mucosal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck presenting with nodal metastasis when level V is clinically uninvolved.

Data Source

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) were used to conduct a systematic review of the current literature, including all English language articles published after 1990. A literature search was performed on November 29, 2015, of Medline, EMBASE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and the Cochrane Library.

Review Methods

The search yielded a total of 270 papers. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, leaving 20 eligible papers. Overall prevalence was calculated using random effect meta‐analysis.

Results

The overall prevalence of level V occult disease in the node (N)‐positive neck, irrespective of subsite, was 2.56% (95% confidence interval 1.29–3.84) (2,368 patients and 2,533 necks). The prevalence of occult level V metastasis was up to 7.7% for oral cavity and 8.3% for oropharyngeal tumors. Five studies reported regional recurrence rates over variable time periods. There is exceedingly limited data on outcomes, such as spinal accessory nerve function, quality of life, and perioperative complications.

Conclusion

Mucosal head and neck SCC presenting with nodal metastasis but with level V clinically uninvolved has a low prevalence of occult level V disease. Routine dissection of level V does not appear to be warranted; however, a definitive conclusion is unable to be drawn due to limited data on morbidity and oncological outcomes. Laryngoscope, 127:2074–2080, 2017
Evaluation of Difunctional Vinylcyclopropanes as Reactive Diluents for the Development of Low‐Shrinkage Composites
Authors: Catel Yohann , Fässler Pascal , Fischer Urs , Gorsche Christian , Schörpf Sebastian , Tauscher Sven , Liska Robert , Moszner Norbert
Published: April 2017

Polymerization shrinkage of dental composites remains a major concern. Free‐radically polymerizable cyclic monomers can be a conceivable alternative to methacrylates for the development of low‐shrinkage composites. In this study, the one‐step synthesis of the novel low viscosity difunctional vinylcyclopropanes 1–4 is described. Photopolymerization kinetics of these monomers are investigated by photo‐differential scanning calorimeter, using bis(4‐methoxybenzoyl)diethylgermane as photoinitiator. Real‐time near‐infrared photorheology measurements are performed to evaluate rheological behavior (i.e., time of gelation, polymerization‐induced shrinkage force) and chemical conversion (i.e., double bond conversion at the gel point, final double bond conversion) of the vinylcyclopropanes in situ. The potential of these monomers as reactive diluents in dental restorative materials is evaluated. Composites based on vinycyclopropanes 1–4 show good mechanical properties and exhibit significantly lower volumetric shrinkage and shrinkage stress than corresponding dimethacrylate‐based materials. The results indicate that such monomers are promising candidates for the replacement of commonly used low viscosity dimethacrylates such as triethylene glycol dimethacrylate in dental composites.

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Improved magnetic resonance fingerprinting reconstruction with low‐rank and subspace modeling
Authors: Zhao Bo , Setsompop Kawin , Adalsteinsson Elfar , Gagoski Borjan , Ye Huihui , Ma Dan , Jiang Yun , Ellen Grant P. , Griswold Mark A. , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This article introduces a constrained imaging method based on low‐rank and subspace modeling to improve the accuracy and speed of MR fingerprinting (MRF).

Theory and Methods

A new model‐based imaging method is developed for MRF to reconstruct high‐quality time‐series images and accurate tissue parameter maps (e.g., T1, T2, and spin density maps). Specifically, the proposed method exploits low‐rank approximations of MRF time‐series images, and further enforces temporal subspace constraints to capture magnetization dynamics. This allows the time‐series image reconstruction problem to be formulated as a simple linear least‐squares problem, which enables efficient computation. After image reconstruction, tissue parameter maps are estimated via dictionary‐based pattern matching, as in the conventional approach.

Results

The effectiveness of the proposed method was evaluated with in vivo experiments. Compared with the conventional MRF reconstruction, the proposed method reconstructs time‐series images with significantly reduced aliasing artifacts and noise contamination. Although the conventional approach exhibits some robustness to these corruptions, the improved time‐series image reconstruction in turn provides more accurate tissue parameter maps. The improvement is pronounced especially when the acquisition time becomes short.

Conclusions

The proposed method significantly improves the accuracy of MRF, and also reduces data acquisition time. Magn Reson Med 79:933–942, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Effect of the partially hydrolyzed EVA‐h content on the morphology, rheology, and mechanical properties of PA12/EVA blends
Authors: do Amaral Flávio Corá Nunes , Ernzen Juliano Roberto , Fiorio Rudinei , Martins Johnny De Nardi , Dias Fernanda Trindade Gonzalez , Avolio Roberto , Bianchi Otávio
Published: April 2017

In this article, a hydrolyzed EVA copolymer (EVA‐h) was chosen as an interfacial agent of PA12/EVA blends. The effect of EVA‐h addition (5 and 10 wt% in relation to EVA phase) on morphological, interfacial and mechanical properties of the systems was investigated. The polymer blends were melt processed in an interpenetrating co‐rotating twin‐screen extruder. The EVA‐h practically did not change the continuity index of the blends. However, it resulted in the reduction of the size of the dispersed EVA phase in polyamide. EVA‐h contributed to the reduction of the interfacial tension (4.6 – 0.32 mN/m) and the formation of a stable morphology. The EVA‐h improved the interaction between PA12 and EVA phases, being its effect more pronounced on the elastic modulus and hardness properties. The behavior of the mechanical properties confirmed the compatibilizer effect EVA‐h in the blends. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:335–344, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Improved electromechanical response in acrylic rubber by different carbon‐based fillers
Authors: Shakun Alexandra , Poikelispää Minna , Das Amit , Vuorinen Jyrki
Published: April 2017

Dielectric elastomers are materials often utilized for the fabrication of electroactive actuators. Acrylic rubber (ACM) is very widely used in dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs). However, its overall good performance is limited by the high operating electric field required. In the present work, we compare the effect of different types of conventionally used carbon black (CB) as well as other carbon‐based fillers on the dielectric and actuation properties of ACM in order to show that performance of DEAs can be improved by the development of ACM composites. Indeed, addition of CB, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and synthetic graphite leads to an increase in the relative dielectric permittivity of elastomeric material. Moreover, incorporation of nanodiamonds results in reduction of dielectric losses. Finally, actuation stress is remarkably improved by CNTs and different grades of CB. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:395–404, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Development of mesoporous carbon incorporated hybrid membranes for separation of azeotropic mixtures by pervaporation
Authors: Gosar N.S. , Premakshi H.G. , Kariduraganavar M.Y.
Published: April 2017

Using a solution technique, tetraethylorthosilicate crosslinked hybrid poly(vinyl alcohol) membrane was prepared. The membrane was further incorporated with 0, 10, 20, and 30 mass% of mesoporous carbon and the membranes thus obtained were designated as M‐1, M‐2, M‐3, and M‐4, respectively. The physico‐chemical properties of these membranes were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetry analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The effects of mesoporous carbon and feed composition on pervaporation performance of the membranes were systematically investigated. The membrane M‐4 exhibited the highest separation factor of 4,082 with a flux of 1.93 × 10−2kg/m2h at 30°C for 10 mass% of water in the feed. Total flux and flux of water are overlapping each other, manifesting that these membranes could be used to break the azeotropic point of water‐isopropanol mixtures effectively. From the temperature dependent diffusion and permeation values, the Arrhenius activation parameters were estimated. The positive heat of sorption values was obtained for M‐1, M‐2, and M‐3, suggesting that Henry's mode of sorption is predominant, giving an endothermic contribution. On the contrary, membrane M‐4 exhibited negative ΔHsvalue suggesting that the sorption process was dominated by exothermic contribution. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:405–415, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Multi‐jet electrospinning with high‐throughput using a coaxial grooved nozzle and two fluids
Authors: Park Inyong , Kim Sang Soo , Kim Woojin
Published: April 2017

To broaden the applications of the electrospinning technique, high throughput is one of the primary goals of many researchers. To overcome the throughput limitation, we have introduced coaxial grooved nozzles. By using a coaxial grooved nozzle and two fluids, including polyethylene oxide (PEO), we are able to achieve stable multi‐jet operation and relatively high throughput. The multi‐jets are initiated by the multi‐jet mode of the inner fluid, and share the total flow rate of the polymer solution. We have investigated the operating conditions for various flow rate combinations of two fluids. The morphology of the resulting nanofibers is uniform without bead formation. The fibers have an average diameter of about 350 nm. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:416–421, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Melt compounding and characterization of poly(lactide) stereocomplex/natural rubber composites
Authors: Pholharn Dutchanee , Srithep Yottha , Morris John
Published: April 2017

Poly(lactide) (PLA) is an interesting biodegradable polymer but has limited application because of its brittleness and low thermal stability. We found that both drawbacks of PLA were solved by forming stereocomplexes augmented with natural rubber (NR). Equal amounts of poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) and poly(d‐lactide) (PDLA) stereoisomers were blended to form a stereocomplex (St‐PLA). Varying amounts of NR (5–30% by weight) were added simultaneously to equal amounts of the stereo isomers by melt blending. FTIR and XRD spectra demonstrated that, despite the added NR, the stereocomplex structures were still generated and complete. Stereocomplex crystallinity decreased with increasing NR content, verified by DSC and XRD, as well as polarizing optical micrographs which showed fewer spherulites at higher NR content. Measured glass transition temperatures (Tg) of St‐PLA/NR blends were significantly lower than for neat St‐PLA, exhibiting shifts to as low as 46°C at 30%wt NR content, because of rubber dispersed in St‐PLA segments expanding the free volume and enhancing chain mobility. Thermal stability of the blends, estimated by TGA, showed desired results, for example, at the 50% weight loss point, the temperature of all St‐PLA/NR blends moved to higher temperatures than neat St‐PLA. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Convenient synthetic route to tetraarylphosphonium polyelectrolytes via palladium‐catalyzed P–C coupling of aryl triflates and diphenylphosphine
Authors: Wan Wang , Yang Xiaoyan , Smith Rhett C.
Published: April 2017

A series of eight tetraarylphosphonium polyelectrolytes (TPELs) has been successfully synthesized by polymerization of diphenylphosphine and bis(aryl triflate)s. The bis(aryl triflate)s are readily prepared from bisphenols, some of which are commodity feedstocks such as bisphenol A. The polymerization via palladium catalyzed P–C bond formation produces degrees of polymerization up to 65. All polymeric triflates have reasonable thermal stability in the range of 350–450 °C. The stability of the TPELs to alkaline solution is strongly depending on the spacer between adjacent phosphonium sites. Polymers with electron‐releasing and bulky substituent para‐ to the phosphonium site have improved stability while those with electron‐withdrawing substituent para‐ to phosphonium site have decreased alkaline stability due to decomposition via a nucleophilic aromatic substitution pathway. These findings have important ramifications for the design of ionomers for alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells and related electrochemical energy conversion devices. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 1984–1990
The aggressor at the mirror: Psychiatric correlates of deliberate self-harm in male prison inmates
Authors: Verdolini N. , Murru A. , Attademo L. , Garinella R. , Pacchiarotti I. , Bonnin C. del Mar , Samalin L. , Pauselli L. , Piselli M. , Tamantini A. , Quartesan R. , Carvalho A.F. , Vieta E. , Tortorella A.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Deliberate self-harm (DSH) causes important concern in prison inmates as it worsens morbidity and increases the risk for suicide. The aim of the present study is to investigate the prevalence and correlates of DSH in a large sample of male prisoners.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study evaluated male prisoners aged 18+ years. Current and lifetime psychiatric diagnoses were assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - DSM-IV Axis I and Axis II Disorders and with the Addiction Severity Index-Expanded Version. DSH was assessed with The Deliberate Self-Harm Inventory. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify independent correlates of lifetime DSH.

Results:

Ninety-three of 526 inmates (17.7%) reported at least 1 lifetime DSH behavior, and 58/93 (62.4%) of those reported a DSH act while in prison. After multivariable adjustment (sensitivity 41.9%, specificity 96.1%, area under the curve = 0.854, 95% confidence interval CI = 0.811–0.897, P < 0.001), DSH was significantly associated with lifetime psychotic disorders (adjusted Odds Ratio aOR = 6.227, 95% CI = 2.183–17.762, P = 0.001), borderline personality disorder (aOR = 6.004, 95% CI = 3.305–10.907, P < 0.001), affective disorders (aOR = 2.856, 95% CI = 1.350–6.039, P = 0.006) and misuse of multiple substances (aOR = 2.024, 95% CI = 1.111–3.687, P = 0.021).

Conclusions:

Borderline personality disorder and misuse of multiple substances are established risk factors of DSH, but psychotic and affective disorders were also associated with DSH in male prison inmates. This points to possible DSH-related clinical sub-groups, that bear specific treatment needs.
A systematic review of pre, peri and postoperative factors and their implications for the lengths of resected bowel segments in patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Hendel Kristoffer , Kjærgaard Sebastian , El-Hussuna Alaa
Published: April 2017

Abstract

Aim

Several pre, peri and postoperative factors may have implications for the lengths of resected small bowel segments in Crohn’s disease patients. It might also affect patient outcome. We reviewed the current literature on factors and their implications for the lengths of resected small bowel segments and possible correlations with postoperative outcome.

Method

Searches were independently engineered by the authors and a research-librarian in MEDLINE and OVID databases using PubMed and EMBASE engines in compliance with PRISMA recommendations. All original articles, reviews and guidelines published in the period of 1985–2016 with last search date 13th of February 2016 on bowel resection in Crohn’s disease patients were assessed for inclusion.

Results

We identified 52 studies for synthesis. Preoperative: Perforation as indication for surgery and increased visceral obesity may be factors resulting in longer lengths of resected small bowel segments. Administration of total parenteral nutrition might reduce resection lengths. Perioperative: No difference in resection lengths in elective versus acute surgery, laparoscopic versus open approaches or in case of intra-operative blood transfusions. Stapled anastomoses might conserve more bowel than sutured ones. Postoperative: The lengths of the resected small bowel segments most likely have no impact on recurrence rates.

Conclusion

No pre, peri or postoperative factors were found to have definitive implications for the lengths of resected small bowel segments. Correlation between the lengths of resection and recurrence is weak.

Highlights
Preservice preparation and other potential influences on in-service beliefs and practices: A tale of two secondary social studies teachers
Authors: Jones Robert C. , Saye John W.
Published: April 2017

Presented here are the cases of two secondary social studies teachers who were participants in a larger research endeavor designed to examine the enduring effects of a preservice teacher preparation program rooted in problem-based historical inquiry (PBHI) on their in-service beliefs and practices. The study was designed to revisit graduates of this teacher preparation program after they completed their induction into the profession. The two teachers selected for closer examination in this piece had relatively similar preservice teacher experiences and taught in the same city school system. Findings indicate that the preservice program continued to impact both to some extent. However, their current beliefs about social studies teaching and their typical classroom practices differed greatly. Evidence suggests that these differences may be attributed to their personal dispositions and their conceptions of the role of the teacher.
Successful Repeat Sacroplasty in a Patient With a Recurrent Sacral Insufficiency Fracture: A Case Presentation
Authors: Simon Jeremy I. , Surrey David E. , Kitei Paul , Sonagere Matthew , Gehret Jeffrey , Young George , Smoger David
Published: April 2017

The standard of care for treatment of sacral insufficiency fracture (SIF) remains conservative management with limited weight‐bearing and analgesics, as most fractures heal within 12 weeks. For those who fail to respond to conservative therapy, are immobile, or cannot tolerate the pain despite analgesic therapy, as well as those who do not improve with time, rest, or activity modification, minimally invasive surgery with percutaneous transverse screw fixation across the fracture is effective. However, a less invasive procedure, percutaneous sacroplasty, may be an option for potential rapid pain reduction. This is a novel report of repeat sacroplasty in a patient with a recurrent SIF to the same anatomical area as a previously treated SIF. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such an occurrence.

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.
UB‐311, a novel UBITh® amyloid β peptide vaccine for mild Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Chang Yi , Wang Pei‐Ning , Chiu Ming‐Jang , Finstad Connie L. , Lin Feng , Lynn Shugene , Tai Yuan‐Hung , De Fang Xin , Zhao Kesheng , Hung Chung‐Ho , Tseng Yiting , Peng Wen‐Jiun , Wang Jason , Yu Chih‐Chieh , Kuo Be‐Sheng , Frohna Paul A.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

A novel amyloid β (Aβ) synthetic peptide vaccine (UB‐311) has been evaluated in a first‐in‐human trial with patients of mild‐to‐moderate Alzheimer's disease. We describe translational research covering vaccine design, preclinical characterization, and phase‐I clinical trial with supportive outcome that advances UB‐311 into an ongoing phase‐II trial.

Methods

UB‐311 is constructed with two synthetic Aβ1–14–targeting peptides (B‐cell epitope), each linked to different helper T‐cell peptide epitopes (UBITh®) and formulated in a Th2‐biased delivery system. The hAPP751 transgenic mouse model was used to perform the proof‐of‐concept study. Baboons and macaques were used for preclinical safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity evaluation. Patients with mild‐to‐moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD) were immunized by intramuscular route with 3 doses of UB‐311 at weeks 0, 4, and 12, and monitored until week 48. Safety and immunogenicity were assessed per protocol, and preliminary efficacy was analyzed by Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale (ADAS‐Cog), Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study–Clinician's Global Impression of Change (ADCS‐CGIC).

Results

UB‐311 covers a diverse genetic background and facilitates strong immune response with high responder rate. UB‐311 reduced the levels of Aβ1–42 oligomers, protofibrils, and plaque load in hAPP751 transgenic mice. Safe and well‐tolerated UB‐311 generated considerable site‐specific (Aβ1–10) antibodies across all animal species examined. In AD patients, UB‐311 induced a 100% responder rate; injection site swelling and agitation were the most common adverse events (4/19 each). A slower rate of increase in ADAS‐Cog from baseline to week 48 was observed in the subgroup of mild AD patients (MMSE ≥ 20) compared with the moderate AD subgroup, suggesting that UB‐311 may have a potential of cognition improvement in patients with early stage of Alzheimer's dementia.

Discussion

The UBITh® platform can generate a high‐precision molecular vaccine with high responder rate, strong on‐target immunogenicity, and a potential of cognition improvement, which support UB‐311 for active immunotherapy in early‐to‐mild AD patients currently enrolled in a phase‐II trial (NCT02551809).
Accelerating drug development for Alzheimer's disease through the use of data standards
Authors: Neville Jon , Kopko Steve , Romero Klaus , Corrigan Brian , Stafford Bob , LeRoy Elizabeth , Broadbent Steve , Cisneroz Martin , Wilson Ethan , Reiman Eric , Vanderstichele Hugo , Arnerić Stephen P. , Stephenson Diane
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The exceedingly high rate of failed trials in Alzheimer's disease (AD) calls for immediate attention to improve efficiencies and learning from past, ongoing, and future trials. Accurate, highly rigorous standardized data are at the core of meaningful scientific research. Data standards allow for proper integration of clinical data sets and represent the essential foundation for regulatory endorsement of drug development tools. Such tools increase the potential for success and accuracy of trial results.

Methods

The development of the Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) AD therapeutic area data standard was a comprehensive collaborative effort by CDISC and Coalition Against Major Diseases, a consortium of the Critical Path Institute. Clinical concepts for AD and mild cognitive impairment were defined and a data standards user guide was created from various sources of input, including data dictionaries used in AD clinical trials and observational studies.

Results

A comprehensive collection of AD‐specific clinical data standards consisting of clinical outcome measures, leading candidate genes, and cerebrospinal fluid and imaging biomarkers was developed. The AD version 2.0 (V2.0) Therapeutic Area User Guide was developed by diverse experts working with data scientists across multiple consortia through a comprehensive review and revision process. The AD CDISC standard is a publicly available resource to facilitate widespread use and implementation.

Discussion

The AD CDISC V2.0 data standard serves as a platform to catalyze reproducible research, data integration, and efficiencies in clinical trials. It allows for the mapping and integration of available data and provides a foundation for future studies, data sharing, and long‐term registries in AD. The availability of consensus data standards for AD has the potential to facilitate clinical trial initiation and increase sharing and aggregation of data across observational studies and among clinical trials, thereby improving our understanding of disease progression and treatment.
Comparison of sialolithiasis in pediatric and adult patients
Authors: Inui Akinari , Itou Ryohei , Oyama Toshirou , Tamura Yoshihiro , Kubota Kosei , Kobayashi Wataru
Published: April 2017

Aims: To compare the clinical characteristics of sialolithiasis between pediatric and adult patients.

Settings and Design: Subject characteristics, clinical manifestations, salivary calculi characteristics, and treatment modalities and outcomes from medical records were retrospectively compared between pediatric and adult patients with sialolithiasis visiting the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hirosaki University Hospital, between 2005 and 2014.

Subjects: We included 5 pediatric (all boys) and 45 adult (20 men; 25 women) patients.

Results: Most patients had submandibular swelling. The calculi were located on the right in 100.0% of pediatric patients and 57.8% of adult patients. Moreover, 20.0% of pediatric patients and 35.6% of adult patients exhibited sialoliths in the glands. Calculi were <5 mm in size in 100.0% of pediatric patients and 33.3% of adult patients. Pediatric sialolithiasis treatment included intraoral retrieval under local anesthesia in 4 cases (80.0%) and spontaneous expulsion from the duct in 1 case (20.0%). Adult sialolithiasis treatment included gland resection under general anesthesia in 8 cases (17.8%), intraoral retrieval under general anesthesia in 6 cases (13.3%), intraoral retrieval under local anesthesia in 19 cases (42.2%), spontaneous expulsion in 6 cases (13.3%), and follow‐up only in 6 cases (13.3%).

Conclusions: A large number of relatively small and distal sialoliths in pediatric patients was removed using intraoral retrieval under local anesthesia. This difference in the choice of treatment between pediatric and adult sialolithiasis may be attributed to the size and palpability of the calculi.
INTERNATIONAL DIFFUSION OF FOOD SAFETY STANDARDS: THE ROLE OF DOMESTIC CERTIFIERS AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Authors: MOHAMMED REZGAR , ZHENG YUQING
Published: April 2017

We examined the cross-national adoption of six major private food safety standards, focusing on the role of certifiers and international trade. Results show that the number of certification bodies existing in the domestic country, food exports, and the proportion of food exports to North America had positive effects on a country's adoption of food safety standards. Distance leads to product differentiation for the standards and therefore disadvantages developing countries in Africa and Asia for adopting the standards, which are all based in the United States or Europe. Providing these countries with better access to certifiers can alleviate this geographic disadvantage.
Buenos Aires “Jornadas de Derecho Internacional”
Authors: Kunz Josef L. , Hayton Robert D.
Published: April 2017

At the invitation of the Argentine Institute of International Law, representatives of the several professional associations of international law in the American Republics met in Buenos Aires September 12 to 15, 1960.
Nutrient profiling for product reformulation: public health impact and benefits for the consumer
Authors: Lehmann Undine , Charles Véronique Rheiner , Vlassopoulos Antonis , Masset Gabriel , Spieldenner Jörg
Published: April 2017

The food industry holds great potential for driving consumers to adopt healthy food choices as (re)formulation of foods can improve the nutritional quality of these foods. Reformulation has been identified as a cost-effective intervention in addressing non-communicable diseases as it does not require significant alterations of consumer behaviour and dietary habits. Nutrient profiling (NP), the science of categorizing foods based on their nutrient composition, has emerged as an essential tool and is implemented through many different profiling systems to guide reformulation and other nutrition policies. NP systems should be adapted to their specific purposes as it is not possible to design one system that can equally address all policies and purposes, e.g. reformulation and labelling. The present paper discusses some of the key principles and specificities that underlie a NP system designed for reformulation with the example of the Nestlé nutritional profiling system. Furthermore, the impact of reformulation at the level of the food product, dietary intakes and public health are reviewed. Several studies showed that food and beverage reformulation, guided by a NP system, may be effective in improving population nutritional intakes and thereby its health status. In order to achieve its maximum potential and modify the food environment in a beneficial manner, reformulation should be implemented by the entire food sector. Multi-stakeholder partnerships including governments, food industry, retailers and consumer associations that will state concrete time-bound objectives accompanied by an independent monitoring system are the potential solution.
The Rise of “Localism” and Civic Identity in Post-handover Hong Kong: Questioning the Chinese Nation-state
Authors: Veg Sebastian
Published: April 2017

While it was traditionally accepted that Hongkongers shared a form of pan-Chinese cultural identification that did not contradict their local distinctiveness, over the last decade Hong Kong has seen the rise of new types of local identity discourses. Most recently, “localists” have been a vocal presence. Hong Kong has – quite unexpectedly – developed a strong claim for self-determination. But how new is “localism” with respect to the more traditional “Hong Kong identity” that appeared in the 1970s? The present study takes a two-dimensional approach to study these discourses, examining not only their framework of identification (local versus pan-Chinese) but also their mode of identification (ethno-cultural versus civic). Using three case studies, the June Fourth vigil, the 2012 anti-National Education protest and the 2014 Umbrella movement, it distinguishes between groups advocating civic identification with the local community (Scholarism, HKFS) and others highlighting ethnic identification (Chin Wan). It argues that while local and national identification were traditionally not incompatible, the civic-based identification with a local democratic community, as advocated by most participants in recent movements, is becoming increasingly incompatible with the ethnic and cultural definition of the Chinese nation that is now being promoted by the Beijing government.
How Arctic Ice Affects Gas Exchange Between Air and Sea
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: April 2017

Scientists begin to fill a major data gap by investigating carbon dioxide dynamics in a remote region of the Arctic Ocean.
Better Estimates of Clouds’ Climate Effects Are on the Horizon
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: April 2017

A recent update to an algorithm for processing satellite data could improve understanding of the variable climate effects of clouds composed of different amounts of ice and liquid.
Former NOAA Chief Scientist Warns of Threats to Science
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: April 2017

Rick Spinrad frets about threats to science from the current administration's attitudes and budget priorities but remains hopeful that things can be turned around.
Cumulative culture can emerge from collective intelligence in animal groups
Authors: Sasaki Takao , Biro Dora
Published: April 2017

Studies of collective intelligence in animal groups typically overlook potential improvement through learning. Although knowledge accumulation is recognized as a major advantage of group living within the framework of Cumulative Cultural Evolution (CCE), the interplay between CCE and collective intelligence has remained unexplored. Here, we use homing pigeons to investigate whether the repeated removal and replacement of individuals in experimental groups (a key method in testing for CCE) alters the groups’ solution efficiency over successive generations. Homing performance improves continuously over generations, and later-generation groups eventually outperform both solo individuals and fixed-membership groups. Homing routes are more similar in consecutive generations within the same chains than between chains, indicating cross-generational knowledge transfer. Our findings thus show that collective intelligence in animal groups can accumulate progressive modifications over time. Furthermore, our results satisfy the main criteria for CCE and suggest potential mechanisms for CCE that do not rely on complex cognition.
Serotonin transporter deficiency drives estrogen-dependent obesity and glucose intolerance
Authors: Zha Weibin , Ho Horace T. B. , Hu Tao , Hebert Mary F. , Wang Joanne
Published: April 2017

Depression and use of antidepressant medications are both associated with increased risk of obesity, potentially attributed to a reduced serotonin transporter (SERT) function. However, how SERT deficiency promotes obesity is unknown. Here, we demonstrated thatSERT−/−mice display abnormal fat accumulation in both white and brown adipose tissues, glucose intolerance and insulin resistance while exhibiting suppressed aromatase (Cyp19a1) expression and reduced circulating 17β-estradiol levels. 17β-estradiol replacement inSERT−/−mice reversed the obesity and glucose intolerance, supporting a role for estrogen in SERT deficiency-associated obesity and glucose intolerance. Treatment of wild type mice with paroxetine, a chemical inhibitor of SERT, also resulted in Cyp19a1 suppression, decreased circulating 17β-estradiol levels, abnormal fat accumulation, and glucose intolerance. Such effects were not observed in paroxetine-treatedSERT−/−mice. Conversely, pregnantSERT−/−mice displayed normalized estrogen levels, markedly reduced fat accumulation, and improved glucose tolerance, which can be eliminated by an antagonist of estrogen receptor α (ERα). Together, these findings support that estrogen suppression is involved in SERT deficiency-induced obesity and glucose intolerance, and suggest approaches to restore 17β-estradiol levels as a novel treatment option for SERT deficiency associated obesity and metabolic abnormalities.
miR-301b~miR-130b—PPARγ axis underlies the adipogenic capacity of mesenchymal stem cells with different tissue origins
Authors: Liu Lulu , Liu Haihui , Chen Mingtai , Ren Saisai , Cheng Panpan , Zhang Hao
Published: April 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been widely used in regenerative medicine and cellular therapy due to their multi-lineage differentiation potential and immunomodulatory function. The applicability of MSCs also depends on their cellular sources and in vivo functions. Here in this study, we systematically compared the morphologic characteristics, immunophenotypes and the adipogenic differentiation of MSCs derived from umbilical cord (UC), adipose tissue (Ad) and bone marrow (BM). We found that the three tissues-derived MSCs displayed decreased adipogenic capacity in the order: Ad-MSC > BM-MSC > UC-MSC, and no morphologic and immunophenotypic differences were observed. Mechanistic investigation revealed a miR-301b~miR-130b—PPARγ axis, whose expression pattern in UC-MSC, Ad-MSC and BM-MSC significantly correlates with their adipogenic capacity. Our results come up with a potential mechanism to elucidate the differential adipogenesis of Ad-MSC, BM-MSC and UC-MSC, which would provide instructional advice for which source of MSCs to choose according to a certain clinical purpose. Furthermore, the miR-301b~miR-130b—PPARγ axis may also be used as a potential therapeutic target for the disorders associated with MSCs-mediated abnormal adipogenesis.
Anticancer properties of a defensin like class IId bacteriocin Laterosporulin10
Authors: Baindara Piyush , Gautam Ankur , Raghava G. P. S. , Korpole Suresh
Published: April 2017

Laterosporulin10 (LS10) is a defensin like peptide fromBrevibacillussp. strain SKDU10 that inhibited microbial pathogens. However, in this study, anticancer activity of LS10 was examined against different cancer cell lines and compared with normal cells. LS10 displayed cytotoxicity against cancer cells like MCF-7, HEK293T, HT1080, HeLa and H1299 at below 10 μM concentration, but not against prostate epithelium cells RWPE-1. Additionally, no hemolysis was observed at significantly higher concentration compared to IC50values observed for different cancer cell lines. Release of lactate dehydrogenase from cancer cell lines at 15 μM concentration upon 120 min treatment indicated the lytic ability of LS10. Accordingly, electron microscopy experiments also confirmed the necrotic effect of LS10 at 15 μM concentration against cancer cells. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis of treated cancer cell lines revealed that LS10 induce apoptosis even at 2.5 μM concentration. Nevertheless, RWPE-1 cells remained viable even at 20 μM concentration. These results provide evidence that LS10 is an anticancer bacteriocin, which causes apoptotic and necrotic death of cancer cells at lower and higher concentrations, respectively. Taken all results together, the present study signifies that LS10 is an anticancer peptide that could be further developed for therapeutic applications.