bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable ammonia production through process synthesis and global optimization
Authors: Demirhan C. Doga , Tso William W. , Powell Joseph B. , Pistikopoulos Efstratios N.
Published: December 2018

Current ammonia production technologies have a significant carbon footprint. In this study, we present a process synthesis and global optimization framework to discover the efficient utilization of renewable resources in ammonia production. Competing technologies are incorporated in a process superstructure where biomass, wind, and solar routes are compared with the natural gas‐based reference case. A deterministic global optimization‐based branch‐and‐bound algorithm is used to solve the resulting large‐scale nonconvex mixed‐integer nonlinear programming problem (MINLP). Case studies for Texas, California, and Iowa are conducted to examine the effects of different feedstock prices and availabilities. Results indicate that profitability of ammonia production is highly sensitive to feedstock and electricity prices, as well as greenhouse gas (GHG) restrictions. Under strict 75% GHG reductions, biomass to ammonia route is found to be competitive with natural gas route, whereas wind and solar to ammonia routes require further improvement to compete with those two routes. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 65: e16498 2019
Gynecologic health in cartilage‐hair hypoplasia: A survey of 26 adult females
Authors: Holopainen Elina , Vakkilainen Svetlana , Mäkitie Outi
Published: December 2018

Cartilage‐hair hypoplasia (CHH) is a rare metaphyseal chondrodysplasia significantly affecting adult height and quality of life. Immunodeficiency and increased risk for malignancies contribute to significant morbidity. Little is known about gynecologic health in CHH. We performed a questionnaire study of 26 women (mean age 42.3 years) with genetically confirmed CHH, inquiring about pubertal development, menstrual cycle, use of contraception, pregnancies, gynecologic infections, and gynecologic cancers. Mean age at menarche and menopause was 12.7 and 46.1 years, respectively. Mean length of menstrual cycle was 27 days. Contraception was used by 76%, most commonly condom (60%), and combined contraception (60%). Despite significant short stature (mean height 121 cm) and potentially small pelvic diameters, 10 CHH women (38%) had been pregnant. Six of these women reported miscarriages and three had, induced pregnancy terminations. Eight women had in total, 19 deliveries. Abnormal Pap smear was reported in five patients and cervical cancer once. Our findings of normal timing of puberty and menopause suggest a fairly normal length of the fertility period in women with CHH. However, many patients expressed concerns regarding the safety of pregnancy and lack of prepregnancy counseling. Immunodeficiency may predispose CHH women to prolonged HPV infections. This study highlights the importance of careful gynecologic follow‐up for these patients.
Terminal osseous dysplasia with pigmentary defects (TODPD) in a Turkish girl with new skin findings
Authors: Azakli Hülya , Akkaya Ayse Deniz , Aygün Murat Serhat , Demirkesen Cüyan , Eraslan Serpil , Kayserili Hülya
Published: December 2018

Terminal osseous dysplasia with pigmentary defects (TODPD; MIM #300244) is an extremely rare, X‐linked dominant, in utero male‐lethal disease, characterized by skeletal dysplasia of the limbs, pigmentary defects of the skin, and recurrent digital fibromatosis of childhood. Delayed/abnormal ossification of bones of the hands and feet, joint contractures, and dysmorphic facial features may accompany. A single recurrent mutation (c.5217 G>A) of the FLNA gene which causes cryptic splicing was identified as the cause of the disease. We here present the first TODPD case from Turkey with full‐blown phenotype who exhibit unique additional findings, hypopigmented patch on the lower extremity following Blaschko's lines and smooth muscle hamartoma of the scalp in review of all the previously reported TODPD cases.
Development of alginate‐gum acacia‐Ag0 nanocomposites via green process for inactivation of foodborne bacteria and impact on shelf life of black grapes (Vitis vinifera)
Authors: Kanikireddy Vimala , Kanny Krishnan , Padma Y. , Velchuri Radha , Ravi G. , Jagan Mohan Reddy B. , Vithal Muga
Published: December 2018

The main objective of this investigation is to develop sodium alginate‐gum acacia‐silver nanocomposite films (AGA‐Ag0 NC) to inhibit the growth of foodborne and to extend the shelf life of food. The Ag nanoparticles were generated in sodium alginate‐gum acacia (AGA) blend matrix through reduction by basil leaves (Tulasi). The formation of Ag0 was monitored by UV–vis spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetrical analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The absorption band at 420 nm in UV–vis spectrum and change in the band positions in FTIR spectrum of AGA‐Ag0 NC compared to that of AGA corresponds to the formation of Ag nanoparticles. The XRD profile of AGA‐Ag0 NC exhibits characteristic d‐lines of Ag nanoparticles. The spherical shape of Ag nanoparticles uniformly formed throughout the films was recognized in SEM image with a size of ~ 4 ± 1 nm as observed by TEM. The water uptake and mechanical properties of the films were also studied. The AGA‐Ag0NC films offered excellent antimicrobial activity against various foodborne bacteria and shelf life of food enhanced efficiency of the AGA‐Ag0NC films is also tested on grape fruit (Vitus vinifera). © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47331.
Harnessing the Sustainable Development Goals for businesses: A progressive framework for action
Authors: Redman Aaron
Published: December 2018

Businesses, as with other sectors in society, are not yet taking sufficient action towards achieving sustainability. The United Nations recently agreed upon a set of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which if properly harnessed, provide a framework (so far lacking) for businesses to meaningfully drive transformations to sustainability. This paper proposes to operationalize the SDGs for businesses through a progressive framework for action with three discrete levels: communication, tactical, and strategic. Within the tactical and strategic levels, several innovative approaches are discussed and illustrated. The challenges of design and measurement as well as opportunities for accountability and the social side of Sustainability, together call for transdisciplinary, collective action. This paper demonstrates feasible pathways and approaches for businesses to take corporate social responsibility to the next level and utilize the SDG framework informed by sustainability science to support transformations towards the achievement of sustainability.
Associations between childhood abuse, mental health problems, and suicide risk among male prison populations in Spain
Authors: Caravaca Sánchez Francisco , Ignatyev Yuriy , Mundt Adrian P.
Published: December 2018

Background

There are few studies exploring associations between different types of childhood abuse and mental health problems among adult prisoners.

Aims

To explore associations between history of childhood abuse, depression or anxiety, and near‐lethal suicide attempts among adult prisoners, and test the hypothesis that post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be a mediator between childhood abuse and adult disorder among prisoners.

Method

We enrolled 943 men from three prisons in Spain. Childhood abuse was assessed with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire at interview and current symptoms were assessed using the 21‐item Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21). Self‐reported histories of near‐lethal suicide attempts were recorded.

Results

Overall, 360 (40%) of the men reported at least one type of childhood abuse; 231 (24.5%) described exposure to emotional abuse, 236 (25%) to physical abuse, and 97 (10%) to sexual abuse. Survivors of all types of childhood abuse had over twice the prevalence of severe depression, anxiety, stress disorder, and near‐lethal suicide attempts than men who had not been exposed. Survivors of sexual and emotional violence during childhood had more symptoms of PTSD than survivors of physical abuse. Statistically, PTSD had a mediating effect, but it was very small.

Conclusions

Although other studies have shown high rates of childhood abuse histories among prisoners, this is the first to link such a history to near‐lethal suicide attempts in this population.
Insight into the Correlation between Cu Species Evolution and Ethanol Selectivity in the Direct Ethanol Synthesis from CO Hydrogenation
Authors: Li Xiao‐Li , Yang Guo‐Hui , Zhang Meng , Gao Xiao‐Feng , Xie Hong‐Juan , Bai Yun‐Xing , Wu Ying‐Quan , Pan Jun‐Xuan , Tan Yi‐Sheng
Published: December 2018

Cu/SiO2 catalyst was prepared by the ammonia evaporation method for the direct synthesis of ethanol from CO hydrogenation. The catalyst exhibited the initial ethanol selectivity as high as 40.0 wt %, which dramatically decreased from 40.0 to 9.6 wt % on the stream of 50 h. XRD, XPS, TEM and N2O titration techniques were employed to elucidate the ethanol selectivity change and catalyst structure evolution during reaction process. The experiment and characterization results indicated that both Cu+/(Cu++Cu0) value and copper crystallite size had great effects on the ethanol selectivity. During the initial 38 h, the ethanol selectivity obviously decreased from 40.0 to 18.2 wt %, and Cu+/(Cu++Cu0) value on the catalyst surface rapidly dropped from 0.67 to 0.39, while the copper crystallite size remained almost unchanged. However, during the reaction period of 38–50 h, the Cu+/(Cu++Cu0) value possessed no distinct change, but a further decrease in ethanol selectivity and a rapid aggregation in Cu particles were observed simultaneously. The present systematic investigation demonstrated that the decrease of Cu+/(Cu++Cu0) value was the main factor for the loss of ethanol selectivity during the initial 38 h, whereas the rapid growth of Cu particles during the reaction period of 38–50 h were mainly contributed to the further decline of ethanol selectivity.
The Rise of Catalyst Informatics: Towards Catalyst Genomics
Authors: Takahashi Keisuke , Takahashi Lauren , Miyazato Itsuki , Fujima Jun , Tanaka Yuzuru , Uno Takeaki , Satoh Hiroko , Ohno Koichi , Nishida Mayumi , Hirai Kenji , Ohyama Junya , Nguyen Thanh Nhat , Nishimura Shun , Taniike Toshiaki
Published: December 2018

Catalysis research is on the verge of experiencing a paradigm shift regarding how catalysts are designed and characterized due to the rise of catalyst informatics. The details of catalyst informatics are reviewed where the following three key concepts are proposed: catalyst data, catalyst data to catalyst design via data science, and catalyst platform. Additionally, progress and opportunities within catalyst informatics are explored and introduced. If the field of catalyst informatics grows in the appropriate manner, the methods and approaches taken for catalyst design would be fundamentally altered, leading towards great advancement within catalysis research.
Continuous‐Flow Pd‐Catalyzed Carbonylation of Aryl Chlorides with Carbon Monoxide at Elevated Temperature and Pressure
Authors: Mata Alejandro , Hone Christopher A. , Gutmann Bernhard , Moens Luc , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: December 2018

The development of a continuous‐flow protocol for a palladium‐catalyzed methoxycarbonylation of (hetero)aryl chlorides using carbon monoxide gas and methanol is described. (Hetero)aryl chlorides are the least expensive of the aryl halides, but are underutilized in carbonylation reactions due to their very poor reactivity. The described protocol exploits intensified conditions at elevated temperature and pressure, which are readily accessed within a continuous‐flow environment, to provide moderate to excellent product yields (11 examples) in a short 16 min residence time. The continuous‐flow protocol enables the safe and potentially scalable carbonylation of aryl chlorides using CO gas.
Complex Phase Behaviour and Structural Transformations of Metal‐Organic Frameworks with Mixed Rigid and Flexible Bridging Ligands
Authors: Arkawazi Hayder D. J. , Clowes Rob , Cooper Andrew I. , Konno Takumi , Kuwamura Naoto , Pask Christopher M. , Hardie Michaele J.
Published: December 2018

Two new heteroleptic metal‐organic framework materials show strong adsorption of H2 and ethanol. [Co2(L1)(bdc)2], where L1=N1,N4‐bis(4‐pyridinylmethyl)‐2,5‐dimethylbenzene‐1,4‐diamine and bdc is benzene‐1,4‐dicarboxylate, has a twofold interpenetrating pillared layer structure with pcu topology. It has a stepped, hysteretic EtOH adsorption that can be related to complicated phase and structural transformation behaviour that occurs on de‐solvation and re‐solvation, including major conformational changes to the geometry of the flexible L1 ligand. [Co2(L1)(bpdc)2], where bpdc=biphenyl‐4,4′‐dicarboxylate, has a unique six‐connected self‐catenating framework structure. Solvation changes occur without significant structural change and a partially‐hydrolysed material binds its own decomposition products as guests.
Thermal and Photophysical Properties of Highly Quadrupolar Liquid‐Crystalline Derivatives of the [closo‐B12H12]2− Anion
Authors: Ali Muhammad O. , Lasseter John C. , Żurawiński Remigiusz , Pietrzak Anna , Pecyna Jacek , Wojciechowski Jakub , Friedli Andrienne C. , Pociecha Damian , Kaszyński Piotr
Published: December 2018

Two series of 1,12‐bis‐zwitterionic derivatives of the [closo‐B12H12]2− anion (B), containing either two 4‐alkoxypyridinium groups (1B[n]‐p) or one 4‐alkoxypyridinium and one 4‐pentylthianium groups (2B[n]‐p), were prepared and their structural (XRD, DFT), thermal, and photophysical properties were compared with those of the analogous derivatives of the [closo‐B10H10]2− anion (1A[n]‐p and 2A[n]‐p). Some 1,7‐derivatives of B were isolated and investigated. Both series 1[n] and 2[n] exhibit nematic and crystalline polymorphism; the 12‐vertex derivatives (B) have higher transition temperatures than those of the 10‐vertex analogues (A). All compounds fluoresce with quantum yields higher for 1B (ΦF=0.37 for 1B[7]‐p and ΦF=0.27 for 2B[7]‐p) than those for the 10‐vertex analogues (ΦF=0.04 for 2A[5]‐p). DFT calculations demonstrate an order of magnitude lower first hyperpolarizability, β(−ω,ω,0), for 2B[7]‐p than that for the 10‐vertex analogue 2A[7]‐p (1.7×10−30 vs. 18.9×10−30 esu at ω=0).
Electronic Coupling and Electron Transfer between Two Mo2 Units through meta‐ and para‐Phenylene Bridges
Authors: Gao Hang , Mallick Suman , Cao Lijiu , Meng Miao , Cheng Tao , Chen Huo Wen , Liu Chun Y.
Published: December 2018

A series of three Mo2 dimers bridged by a meta‐phenylene group has been studied in terms of electronic coupling (EC) and electron transfer (ET) in comparison with the para isomers. Optical analyses on the mixed‐valence complexes indicate that by replacing a para‐phenylene bridge with a meta one, the EC between the two Mo2 centers is dramatically weakened; consequently, the ET rates (ket) are lowered by two to three orders of magnitude. In the para series, the EC parameters (Hab) and ET rates (ket) are greatly affected by O/S atomic alternation of the bridging ligand. However, for the meta analogues, similar EC and ET parameters are obtained, that is, Hab=300–400 cm−1 and ket≈109 s−1. These results suggest that through‐σ‐bond and/or through‐space coupling channels become operative as the π conjugation is disabled. DFT calculations reveal that destructive quantum interference features seen for the meta series arise from the cancellation of two π‐conjugated coupling pathways.
Microtubule‐Targeting 7‐Deazahypoxanthines Derived from Marine Alkaloid Rigidins: Exploration of the N3 and N9 Positions and Interaction with Multidrug‐Resistance Proteins
Authors: Dasari Ramesh , Błauż Andrzej , Medellin Derek C. , Kassim Roaa M. , Viera Carlos , Santarosa Maximo , van der Westhuyzen Alet E. , van Otterlo Willem A. L. , Olivas Taryn , Yildiz Tugba , Betancourt Tania , Shuster Charles B. , Rogelj Snezna , Rychlik Błażej , Hudnall Todd , Frolova Liliya V. , Kornienko Alexander
Published: December 2018

Our laboratories have been investigating synthetic analogues of marine alkaloid rigidins that possess promising anticancer activities. These analogues, based on the 7‐deazahypoxanthine skeleton, are available in one‐ or two‐step synthetic sequences and exert cytotoxicity by disrupting microtubule dynamics in cancer cells. In the present work we extended the available structure–activity relationship (SAR) data to N3‐ and N9‐substituted derivatives. Although N3 substitution results in loss of activity, the N9‐substituted compounds retain nanomolar antiproliferative activities and the anti‐tubulin mode of action of the original unsubstituted compounds. Furthermore, our results also demonstrate that multidrug‐resistance (MDR) proteins do not confer resistance to both N9‐unsubstituted and ‐substituted compounds. It was found that sublines overexpressing ABCG2, ABCC1, and ABCB1 proteins are as responsive to the rigidin analogues as their parental cell lines. Thus, the study reported herein provides further impetus to investigate the rigidin‐inspired 7‐deazahypoxanthines as promising anticancer agents.
Acquisition of sexual orientation and gender identity data among NCI Community Oncology Research Program practice groups
Authors: Cathcart‐Rake Elizabeth J. , Zemla Tyler , Jatoi Aminah , Weaver Kathryn E. , Neuman Heather , Kazak Anne E. , Carlos Ruth , Gansauer Lucy , Unger Joseph M. , Pajewski Nicholas M. , Kamen Charles
Published: December 2018

Background

Sexual and gender minority individuals face numerous cancer‐related inequities, many of which appear to be underreported. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no one has assessed rates of acquisition of sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data within community oncology settings.

Methods

Community oncology practices that were part of the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) network were asked whether they routinely collected SOGI information and coded this information in their electronic medical records. The proportion of practice groups reporting routine collection of sexual and/or gender minority information was calculated. Potential associations between the collection of SOGI information and practice group–level and state‐level characteristics (from Gallup poll data) were also provided.

Results

Twenty‐four percent of the responding NCORP practice groups reported routine collection of sexual orientation information, and 10% reported collection of gender identity information. Practices located in western regions of the United States, practices in states with higher proportions of sexual and gender minority–identifying individuals, and practices with lower proportions of non‐Hispanic patients were more likely to ask patients about sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Conclusions

US oncology practices that participate in research do not frequently collect SOGI information from patients with cancer. Educational initiatives should inform oncology staff and providers about the importance of collecting gender identity and sexual orientation information to improve existent disparities faced by sexual and gender minority patients.
Unraveling the functional organization of lobula complex in the mantis brain by identification of visual interneurons
Authors: Yamawaki Yoshifumi
Published: December 2018

The praying mantis shows broad repertories of visually guided behaviors such as prey recognition and defense against collision. It is likely that neurons in the lobula complex (LOX), the third visual neuropil in the optic lobe, play significant roles in these behaviors. The LOX in the mantis brain consists of five neuropils: outer lobes 1 and 2 (OLO1 and OLO2); anterior lobe (ALO); dorsal lobe (DLO); and stalk lobe (SLO), and ALO comprise ventral and dorsal subunits, ALO‐V and ALO‐D. To understand the functional organization of LOX, intracellular electrodes were used for recording from and staining neurons in these neuropils of the mantis (Tenodera aridifolia). The neurons belonged to three categories based on their response properties and morphologies. First, tangential ALO‐V neurons projecting to ventromedial neuropils (VMNP) (TAproM1 and 2), tangential DLO (or ALO‐D) neurons projecting to VMNP (TDproM1 and 2), and tangential ALO‐V centrifugal neurons (TAcen) all showed directional sensitivity and sustained excitation to gratings drifting in preferred direction (outward–downward, inward–upward, outward–upward, inward–downward, and inward, respectively). Second, tangential OLO neurons projecting to VMNP or ventrolateral neuropils (VLNP) (TOproM or TOproL), columnar OLO commissural neurons (COcom), and SLO commissural neurons (Scom) all showed strong excitation to 2°–8° moving squares but little excitations to drifting gratings. COcom and SLO neurons ramified in both left and right LOX. Last, the class of tangential ALO‐V neurons projecting to VLNP (TAproL1, 2, and 3) responded best to looming circles and showed little excitation to receding, darkening, and lightening circles.
Pleomorphic and atypical multinucleated giant cells in solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas: A diagnostic pitfall in cytology and a review of the literature
Authors: Policarpio‐Nicolas Maria Luisa C. , McHugh Kelsey E. , Sae‐Ow Wichit , Brainard Jennifer A.
Published: December 2018

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPN) is a rare low‐grade malignancy typically occurring in young women. Occasionally, these neoplasms present with pleomorphic to atypical multinucleated giant tumor cells which may mimic high‐grade malignancy. Our patient is a 25‐year‐old male who presented with one year of intermittent epigastric pain. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a 3.1 × 2.5 cm mass in the pancreas body. Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration of the mass showed large pleomorphic cells and atypical multinucleated giant cells in a background of singly scattered polygonal cells. Focally, these cells surrounded delicate hyalinized to fibrovascular cores forming pseudopapillae. Immunohistochemical stains show tumor cells are positive for beta‐catenin, CD10, vimentin, and CD56. Although rare surgical pathology publications have described the presence of pleomorphic to atypical multinucleated giant cells occurring in SPN, to our knowledge, this is the first case reported example focused on cytomorphologic illustration and description.
UV bullseye contrast of Hemerocallis flowers attracts hawkmoths but not swallowtail butterflies
Authors: Hirota Shun K. , Miki Nozomu , Yasumoto Akiko A. , Yahara Tetsukazu
Published: December 2018

The color and patterns of animal‐pollinated flowers are known to have effects on pollinator attraction. In this study, the relative importance of flower color and color contrast patterns on pollinator attraction was examined in two pollinator groups, swallowtail butterflies and hawkmoths using two Hemerocallis species; butterfly‐pollinated H. fulva and hawkmoth‐pollinated H. citrina, having reddish and yellowish flowers in human vision, respectively. Flowers of both species have UV bullseye patterns, composed of UV‐absorbing centers and UV‐reflecting peripheries, known to function as a typical nectar guide, but UV reflectance was significantly more intense in the peripheries of H. citrina flowers than in those of H. fulva flowers. Comparison based on the visual systems of butterflies and hawkmoths showed that the color contrast of the bullseye pattern in H. citrina was more intense than that in H. fulva. To evaluate the relative importance of flower color and the color contrast of bullseye pattern on pollinator attraction, we performed a series of observations using experimental arrays consisting of Hemerocallis species and their hybrids. As a result, swallowtail butterflies and crepuscular/nocturnal hawkmoths showed contrasting preferences for flower color and patterns: butterflies preferred H. fulva‐like colored flower whereas the preference of hawkmoths was affected by the color contrast of the bullseye pattern rather than flower color. Both crepuscular and nocturnal hawkmoths consistently preferred flowers with stronger contrast of the UV bullseye pattern, whereas the preference of hawkmoths for flower color was incoherent. Our finding suggests that hawkmoths can use UV‐absorbing/reflecting bullseye patterns for foraging under light‐limited environments and that the intensified bullseye contrast of H. citrina evolved as an adaptation to hawkmoths. Our results also showed the difference of visual systems between pollinators, which may have promoted floral divergence.
Freshwater species distributions along thermal gradients
Authors: Kärcher Oskar , Hering Daniel , Frank Karin , Markovic Danijela
Published: December 2018

The distribution of a species along a thermal gradient is commonly approximated by a unimodal response curve, with a characteristic single optimum near the temperature where a species is most likely to be found, and a decreasing probability of occurrence away from the optimum. We aimed at identifying thermal response curves (TRCs) of European freshwater species and evaluating the potential impact of climate warming across species, taxonomic groups, and latitude. We first applied generalized additive models using catchment‐scale global data on distribution ranges of 577 freshwater species native to Europe and four different temperature variables (the current annual mean air/water temperature and the maximum air/water temperature of the warmest month) to describe species TRCs. We then classified TRCs into one of eight curve types and identified spatial patterns in thermal responses. Finally, we integrated empirical TRCs and the projected geographic distribution of climate warming to evaluate the effect of rising temperatures on species’ distributions. For the different temperature variables, 390–463 of 577 species (67.6%–80.2%) were characterized by a unimodal TRC. The number of species with a unimodal TRC decreased from central toward northern and southern Europe. Warming tolerance (WT = maximum temperature of occurrence—preferred temperature) was higher at higher latitudes. Preferred temperature of many species is already exceeded. Rising temperatures will affect most Mediterranean species. We demonstrated that freshwater species’ occurrence probabilities are most frequently unimodal. The impact of the global climate warming on species distributions is species and latitude dependent. Among the studied taxonomic groups, rising temperatures will be most detrimental to fish. Our findings support the efforts of catchment‐based freshwater management and conservation in the face of global warming.
Multi‐organ dysfunction/injury on admission identifies acute heart failure patients at high risk of poor outcome
Authors: Zymliński Robert , Sokolski Mateusz , Biegus Jan , Siwołowski Paweł , Nawrocka‐Millward Sylwia , Sokolska Justyna M. , Dudkowiak Marta , Marciniak Dominik , Todd John , Jankowska Ewa A. , Banasiak Waldemar , Ponikowski Piotr
Published: December 2018

Background

Clinical consequences of an interplay between dysfunction/injury of different end‐organs in acute heart failure (AHF) remain unknown.

Methods and results

In 284 consecutive AHF patients, end‐organ dysfunction/injury was defined as cardiac [troponin I level above the upper reference limit (URL, > 0.056 ng/mL)], kidney (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2), and liver [at least one of the following: aspartate transaminase (AST)/alanine transaminase (ALT) > 3 times the URL (> 114 IU/L and > 105 IU/L for AST and ALT, respectively), bilirubin above the URL (> 1.3 mg/mL), albumin below the lower reference limit (< 3.5 mg/dL)]. The primary endpoints were early (within first 48 h) in‐hospital worsening of heart failure and 1‐year all‐cause mortality. On admission, cardiac, kidney, liver dysfunction/injury were present in 38%, 50%, and 54% of patients, respectively. Patients were classified as having 0, 1, 2, or 3 organ injury/dysfunction (17%, 36%, 35%, and 12% of patients, respectively). Baseline clinical characteristics and co‐morbidity profile were similar across groups. Patients with three organ dysfunction/injury had the worst 1‐year survival rate [46%; hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) vs. patients without organ dysfunction: 6.75 (2.52–18.13), those with two (67%; HR 3.54, 95% CI 1.38–9.08), one (84%; HR 1.58, 95% CI 0.58–4.30), or no organ dysfunction/injury (90%); P < 0.01]. Worsening of heart failure was more frequent in patients with three and two vs. those with one or no organ dysfunction/injury (37% vs. 38% vs. 23% vs. 21%, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In patients with AHF, dysfunction/injury of > 1 end‐organ dysfunction/injury identifies patients at the highest risk of poor outcomes.
Tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, betel quid chewing, and the risk of head and neck cancer in an East Asian population
Authors: Lee Yuan‐Chin Amy , Li Shuang , Chen Yuji , Li Qian , Chen Chien‐Jen , Hsu Wan‐Lun , Lou Pei‐Jen , Zhu Cairong , Pan Jian , Shen Hongbing , Ma Hongxia , Cai Lin , He Baochang , Wang Yu , Zhou Xiaoyan , Ji Qinghai , Zhou Baosen , Wu Wei , Ma Jie , Boffetta Paolo , Zhang Zuo‐Feng , Dai Min , Hashibe Mia
Published: December 2018

Background

The smoking prevalence among men in China is high, but the head and neck cancer incidence rates are low. This study's purpose was to investigate the impact of tobacco, betel quid, and alcohol on head and neck cancer risk in East Asia.

Methods

A multicenter case‐control study (921 patients with head and neck cancer and 806 controls) in East Asia was conducted. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated using logistic regression.

Results

Head and neck cancer risks were elevated for tobacco (OR = 1.58), betel quid (OR = 8.23), and alcohol (OR = 2.29). The total attributable risk of tobacco and/or alcohol was 47.2%. Tobacco/alcohol appeared to account for a small proportion of head and neck cancer among women (attributable risk of 2.2%). Betel quid chewing alone accounted for 28.7% of head and neck cancer.

Conclusions

Betel quid chewing is the strongest risk factor for oral cavity cancer in this Chinese population. Alcohol may play a larger role for head and neck cancer in this population than in European or U.S. populations.
Racial disparities and human papillomavirus status in oropharyngeal cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lenze Nicholas R. , Farquhar Douglas R. , Mazul Angela L. , Masood Maheer M. , Zevallos Jose P.
Published: December 2018

Background

This study used a meta‐analysis to quantify the degree to which the racial disparity in overall survival for black versus white Americans with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) persists after adjusting for human papillomavirus (HPV) status.

Methods

PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and CINAHLA were searched through November 2017. The PRISMA statement was followed. The pooled hazard ratio (HR) was calculated using a random‐effects model.

Results

Five studies met the inclusion criteria and had suitable data for pooling into the meta‐analysis (N = 1153). The pooled HR for overall survival in black versus white Americans with OPSCC after adjusting for HPV status was calculated to be 1.45 (95% confidence interval, 0.87‐2.40).

Conclusions

The difference in survival for black versus white Americans with OPSCC is not significant after adjusting for HPV status but still trends in the direction of a disparity. Additional studies are needed to better characterize this disparity.
American Head and Neck Society Endocrine Section clinical consensus statement: North American quality statements and evidence‐based multidisciplinary workflow algorithms for the evaluation and management of thyroid nodules
Authors: Meltzer Charles J. , Irish Jonathan , Angelos Peter , Busaidy Naifa L. , Davies Louise , Dwojak Sunshine , Ferris Robert L. , Haugen Bryan R. , Harrell Richard M. , Haymart Megan R. , McIver Bryan , Mechanick Jeffrey I. , Monteiro Eric , Morris John C. , Morris Luc G. T. , Odell Michael , Scharpf Joseph , Shaha Ashok , Shin Jennifer J. , Shonka David C. , Thompson Geoffrey B. , Tuttle R. Michael , Urken Mark L. , Wiseman Sam M. , Wong Richard J. , Randolph Gregory
Published: December 2018

Background

Care for patients with thyroid nodules is complex and multidisciplinary, and research demonstrates variation in care. The objective was to develop clinical guidelines and quality metrics to reduce unwarranted variation and improve quality.

Methods

Multidisciplinary expert consensus and modified Delphi approach. Source documents were workflow algorithms from Kaiser Permanente Northern California and Cancer Care of Ontario based on the 2015 American Thyroid Association management guidelines for adult patients with thyroid nodules and differentiated thyroid cancer.

Results

A consensus‐based, unified preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative workflow was developed for North American use. Twenty‐one panelists achieved consensus on 16 statements about workflow‐embedded process and outcomes metrics addressing safety, access, appropriateness, efficiency, effectiveness, and patient centeredness of care.

Conclusion

A panel of Canadian and United States experts achieved consensus on workflows and quality metric statements to help reduce unwarranted variation in care, improving overall quality of care for patients diagnosed with thyroid nodules.
Induction of Oxidative Stress Through Inhibition of Thioredoxin Reductase 1 Is an Effective Therapeutic Approach for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Derek , Xu Iris Ming‐Jing , Chiu David Kung‐Chun , Leibold Josef , Tse Aki Pui‐Wah , Bao Macus Hao‐Ran , Yuen Vincent Wai‐Hin , Chan Cerise Yuen‐Ki , Lai Robin Kit‐Ho , Chin Don Wai‐Ching , Chan Daniel For‐Fan , Cheung Tan‐To , Chok Siu‐Ho , Wong Chun‐Ming , Lowe Scott W. , Ng Irene Oi‐Lin , Wong Carmen Chak‐Lui
Published: December 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers worldwide which lacks effective treatment. Cancer cells experience high levels of oxidative stress due to increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Increased antioxidant‐producing capacity is therefore found in cancer cells to counteract oxidative stress. The thioredoxin system is a ubiquitous mammalian antioxidant system which scavenges ROS, and we demonstrate that it is vital for HCC growth as it maintains intracellular reduction‐oxidation (redox) homeostasis. Transcriptome sequencing in human HCC samples revealed significant overexpression of thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1), the cytosolic subunit and key enzyme of the thioredoxin system, with significant correlations to poorer clinicopathological features and patient survival. Driven by the transcriptional activation of nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)–like 2, the master protector against oxidative stress, TXNRD1 counteracts intracellular ROS produced in human HCC. Inhibition of TXNRD1 through genetic inhibition hindered the proliferation of HCC cells and induced apoptosis in vitro. Administration of the pharmacological TXNRD1 inhibitor auranofin (AUR) effectively suppressed the growth of HCC tumors induced using the hydrodynamic tail vein injection and orthotopic implantation models in vivo. Furthermore, AUR sensitized HCC cells toward the conventional therapeutic sorafenib. Conclusion: Our study highlights the reliance of HCC cells on antioxidants for redox homeostasis and growth advantage; targeting TXNRD1 resulted in dramatic accumulation of ROS, which was found to be an effective approach for the suppression of HCC tumor growth.
The Burden of Chronic Hepatitis C in China From 2004 to 2050: An Individual‐Based Modeling Study
Authors: Wu Jie , Zhou Yuqing , Fu Xiaofang , Deng Min , Zheng Yang , Tian Guo , Li Yiping , Wang Chencheng , Ding Cheng , Ruan Bing , Yang Shigui , Li Lanjuan
Published: December 2018

The launch of new direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) is expected to substantially reduce the burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in China. However, the effect of these changes has not yet been modeled in China. Therefore, we aim to predict the burden of HCV‐related diseases in China by simulating different scenarios that incorporate recent therapeutic advances of HCV and China’s current screening strategy. We developed an individual‐based microsimulation Markov model that simulated disease progression of HCV‐infected patients in China from 2004 to 2050. We simulated four scenarios with different assumptions about treatment, including a natural history scenario, a pre‐DAAs scenario, a DAA treatment for all patients with a METAVIR fibrosis score ≥F3 (DAAs [≥F3]) scenario, and a DAAs (≥F0) scenario. The introduction of DAAs is predicted to have great impacts on the burden of HCV in China, particularly under the DAAs (≥F0) scenario in which we rapidly expand DAAs to all HCV‐infected patients (≥F0) in 2021. Under this scenario, prevalence of chronic HCV is expected to peak at 10.75 million (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.30‐12.85) around 2020 and then decrease to 7.92 million (95% CI, 5.41‐10.08) in 2050. Conclusion: If the future increasing burden of HCV‐related diseases is to be averted, China needs to start launching the new DAA treatment and rapidly increase the number of patients treated. However, to maximize the benefits of new DAAs, expanded screening is necessary to identify more cases that require treatment in the short term. Without these changes, the HCV burden in China will remain high in the future.
Predicting Low Risk for Sustained Alcohol Use After Early Liver Transplant for Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis: The Sustained Alcohol Use Post–Liver Transplant Score
Authors: Lee Brian P. , Vittinghoff Eric , Hsu Christine , Han Hyosun , Therapondos George , Fix Oren K. , Victor David W. , Dronamraju Deepti , Im Gene Y. , Voigt Michael D. , Rice John P. , Lucey Michael R. , Eswaran Sheila , Chen Po‐Hung , Li Zhiping , Maddur Haripriya , Terrault Norah A.
Published: December 2018

Early liver transplant (LT) for alcohol‐associated disease (i.e., without a specific sobriety period) is controversial but increasingly used. Using the multicenter American Consortium of Early Liver Transplantation for Alcoholic Hepatitis (ACCELERATE‐AH) cohort, we aimed to develop a predictive tool to identify patients pretransplant with low risk for sustained alcohol use posttransplant to inform selection of candidates for early LT. We included consecutive ACCELERATE‐AH LT recipients between 2012 and 2017. All had clinically diagnosed severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH), no prior diagnosis of liver disease or AH, and underwent LT without a specific sobriety period. Logistic and Cox regression, classification and regression trees (CARTs), and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were used to identify variables associated with sustained alcohol use post‐LT. Among 134 LT recipients for AH with median period of alcohol abstinence pre‐LT of 54 days, 74% were abstinent, 16% had slips only, and 10% had sustained alcohol use after a median 1.6 (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.7‐2.8) years follow‐up post‐LT. Four variables were associated with sustained use of alcohol post‐LT, forming the Sustained Alcohol Use Post‐LT (SALT) score (range: 0‐11): >10 drinks per day at initial hospitalization (+4 points), multiple prior rehabilitation attempts (+4 points), prior alcohol‐related legal issues (+2 points), and prior illicit substance abuse (+1 point). The C statistic was 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68‐0.83). A SALT score ≥5 had a 25% positive predictive value (95% CI: 10%‐47%) and a SALT score of <5 had a 95% negative predictive value (95% CI: 89%‐98%) for sustained alcohol use post‐LT. In internal cross‐validation, the average C statistic was 0.74. Conclusion: A prognostic score, the SALT score, using four objective pretransplant variables identifies candidates with AH for early LT who are at low risk for sustained alcohol use posttransplant. This tool may assist in the selection of patients with AH for early LT or in guiding risk‐based interventions post‐LT.
The effects of age group, interface type, and key area of mobile phones on game playing performance, usability, and visual fatigue: A case study of a rhythm game
Authors: Lin Po‐Hung , Chen Hung‐Jen , Yeh Po‐Ting
Published: December 2018

This study investigated the effects of age group, interface type, and key area on accuracy, usability, the change of critical fusion frequency, and subjective visual fatigue in Taiko no Tatsujin game playing. Four groups divided by age (young adult, adult, middle‐aged adult, and senior citizen), two types of interface (solid and touch), and two types of key areas (approximately 1.1 and 0.6 cm2) were investigated in the experiment. The results showed significant differences for age group on accuracy, especially for young adults and senior citizens. The solid interface demonstrated better accuracy and usability and less subjective visual fatigue than the touch interface. The approximately 1.1 cm2 key indicated better performance than the 0.6 cm2 key in all indexes. It is inferred that the solid interface with the 1.1 cm2 key had better performance. Therefore, mobile phones with a larger key area are more suitable for game playing.
A low‐dimensional model of bedrock weathering and lateral flow coevolution in hillslopes: 1. Hydraulic theory of reactive transport
Authors: Harman Ciaran J. , Kim Minseok
Published: December 2018

This is the first of a two‐part paper exploring the coevolution of bedrock weathering and lateral flow in hillslopes using a simple low‐dimensional model based on hydraulic groundwater theory (also known as Dupuit or Boussinesq theory). Here, we examine the effect of lateral flow on the downward fluxes of water and solutes through perched groundwater at steady state. We derive analytical expressions describing the decline in the downward flux rate with depth. Using these, we obtain analytical expressions for water age in a number of cases. The results show that when the permeability field is homogeneous, the spatial structure of water age depends qualitatively on a single dimensionless number, Hi. This number captures the relative contributions to the lateral hydraulic potential gradient of the relief of the lower‐most impermeable boundary (which may be below the weathering front within permeable or incipiently weathered bedrock) and the water table. A “scaled lateral symmetry” exists when Hi is low: age varies primarily in the vertical dimension, and variations in the horizontal dimension x almost disappear when the vertical dimension z is expressed as a fraction z/H(x) of the laterally flowing system thickness H(x). Taking advantage of this symmetry, we show how the lateral dimension of the advection–diffusion‐reaction equation can be collapsed, yielding a 1‐D vertical equation in which the advective flux downward declines with depth. The equation holds even when the permeability field is not homogeneous, as long as the variations in permeability have the same scaled lateral symmetry structure. This new 1‐D approximation is used in the accompanying paper to extend chemical weathering models derived for 1‐D columns to hillslope domains.
Non‐invasive metastasis prognosis from plasma metabolites in stage II colorectal cancer patients: The DACHS study
Authors: Zaimenko Inna , Jaeger Carsten , Brenner Hermann , Chang‐Claude Jenny , Hoffmeister Michael , Grötzinger Carsten , Detjen Katharina , Burock Susen , Schmitt Clemens A. , Stein Ulrike , Lisec Jan
Published: December 2018

Metastasis is the main cause of death from colorectal cancer (CRC). About 20% of stage II CRC patients develop metastasis during the course of disease. We performed metabolic profiling of plasma samples from non‐metastasized and metachronously metastasized stage II CRC patients to assess the potential of plasma metabolites to serve as biomarkers for stratification of stage II CRC patients according to metastasis risk. We compared the metabolic profiles of plasma samples prospectively obtained prior to metastasis formation from non‐metastasized vs. metachronously metastasized stage II CRC patients of the German population‐based case–control multicenter DACHS study retrospectively. Plasma samples were analyzed from stage II CRC patients for whom follow‐up data including the information on metachronous metastasis were available. To identify metabolites distinguishing non‐metastasized from metachronously metastasized stage II CRC patients robust supervised classifications using decision trees and support vector machines were performed and verified by 10‐fold cross‐validation, by nested cross‐validation and by traditional validation using training and test sets. We found that metabolic profiles distinguish non‐metastasized from metachronously metastasized stage II CRC patients. Classification models from decision trees and support vector machines with 10‐fold cross‐validation gave average accuracy of 0.75 (sensitivity 0.79, specificity 0.7) and 0.82 (sensitivity 0.85, specificity 0.77), respectively, correctly predicting metachronous metastasis in stage II CRC patients. Taken together, plasma metabolic profiles distinguished non‐metastasized and metachronously metastasized stage II CRC patients. The classification models consisting of few metabolites stratify non‐invasively stage II CRC patients according to their risk for metachronous metastasis.
The relationship between terminal duct lobular unit features and mammographic density among Chinese breast cancer patients
Authors: Sung Hyuna , Guo Changyuan , Li Erni , Li Jing , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Guida Jennifer L. , Cora Renata , Hu Nan , Deng Joseph , Figueroa Jonine D. , Sherman Mark E. , Gierach Gretchen L. , Lu Ning , Yang Xiaohong R.
Published: December 2018

Extensive mammographic density (MD), a well‐established breast cancer risk factor, is a radiological representation of stromal and epithelial breast tissue content. In studies conducted predominantly among Caucasian women, histologic measures of reduced terminal duct lobular unit (TDLU) involution have been correlated with extensive MD, but independently associated with breast cancer risk. We therefore examined associations between TDLU measures and MD among Chinese women, a low‐risk population but with high prevalence of dense breasts. Diagnostic pre‐treatment digital mammograms were obtained from 144 breast cancer cases at a tertiary hospital in Beijing and scored using the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS) density classification. TDLU features were assessed using three standardized measures (count/100 mm2, span [μm], and acini count/TDLU) in benign tissues.

Associations between each of TDLU measures and MD were examined using generalized linear models for TDLU count and span and polytomous logistic regression for acini count with adjustment for potential confounders stratified by age. Among women ≥50 years, 63% had dense breasts; cases with dense breasts (BI‐RADS, c‐d) had greater TDLU count (21.1 [SE = 2.70] vs. 9.0 [SE = 1.83]; p = 0.0004), longer span (480.6 μm [SE = 24.6] vs. 393.8 μm [SE = 31.8]; p = 0.03), and greater acini count (ORtrend = 16.1; 95%CI = 4.08–63.1; ptrend < 0.0001) compared to those with non‐dense breasts (BI‐RADS, a‐b). Among women <50 years, 91% had dense breasts, precluding our ability to detect associations. Our findings are consistent with previously reported associations between extensive MD and reduced TDLU involution, supporting the hypothesis that breast cancer risk associated with extensive MD may be related to the amount of “at‐risk” epithelium.