bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and efficacy of high‐dose methotrexate for osteosarcoma in adolescents compared with young adults
Authors: Wippel Brittany , Gundle Kenneth R. , Dang Theresa , Paxton Jillian , Bubalo Joseph , Stork Linda , Fu Rongwei , Ryan Christopher W. , Davis Lara E.
Published: December 2018

Background

Doxorubicin, cisplatin, and high‐dose methotrexate (HDMTX) are the backbone of pediatric osteosarcoma treatment. However, due to toxicity concerns and the lack of data regarding efficacy in adults, high‐dose methotrexate is rarely used in the adult population.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study examined 33 patients who received HDMTX (12 g/m2, maximum 20 g) for the treatment of osteosarcoma at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) from 2011 to 2017. Time to serum methotrexate level ≤0.1 µmol/L was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included number of HDMTX doses received, methotrexate‐related toxicities, and disease outcomes including histologic response at resection and metastasis‐free survival.

Results

Median age was 20 years [range 7‐38]; 14 patients ≤18 years old and 19 patients >18 years old. Median time to clearance for patients ≤18 years was 79 hours (range 63‐116) compared to 120 hours (range 77‐315) for patients >18 years (P < 0.001). No correlation between age and histologic response at resection was observed (P = 0.50), but there was a significant positive correlation between the number of HDMTX doses received before resection and histologic response (r = 0.49, P = 0.006). There was no significant difference in metastasis‐free survival between age groups, although a trend toward improved survival was noted for patients who received at least seven doses of HDMTX.

Conclusion

Age over 18 years correlates with delayed methotrexate clearance and fewer administered doses of methotrexate, without increased toxicity. The potential benefit of HDMTX in young adults with osteosarcoma may outweigh toxicity risks.
Symbiont type and environmental factors affect transcriptome‐wide gene expression in the coral Montipora capitata
Authors: Helmkampf Martin , Bellinger M. Renee , Frazier Monika , Takabayashi Misaki
Published: December 2018

Reef‐building corals may harbor genetically distinct lineages of endosymbiotic dinoflagellates in the genus Symbiodinium, which have been shown to affect important colony properties, including growth rates and resilience against environmental stress. However, the molecular processes underlying these differences are not well understood. In this study, we used whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA‐seq) to assess gene expression differences between 27 samples of the coral Montipora capitata predominantly hosting two different Symbiodinium types in clades C and D. The samples were further characterized by their origin from two field sites on Hawai‘i Island with contrasting environmental conditions. We found that transcriptome‐wide gene expression profiles clearly separated by field site first, and symbiont clade second. With 273 differentially expressed genes (DEGs, 1.3% of all host transcripts), symbiont clade had a measurable effect on host gene expression, but the effect of field site proved almost an order of magnitude higher (1,957 DEGs, 9.6%). According to SNP analysis, we found moderate evidence for host genetic differentiation between field sites (FST = 0.046) and among corals harboring alternative symbiont clades (FST = 0.036), suggesting that site‐related gene expression differences are likely due to a combination of local adaptation and acclimatization to environmental factors. The correlation between host gene expression and symbiont clade may be due to several factors, including host genotype or microhabitat selecting for alternative clades, host physiology responding to different symbionts, or direct modulation of host gene expression by Symbiodinium. However, the magnitude of these effects at the level of transcription was unexpectedly small considering the contribution of symbiont type to holobiont phenotype.
Behavioral classification of low‐frequency acceleration and temperature data from a free‐ranging small mammal
Authors: Studd Emily K. , Landry‐Cuerrier Manuelle , Menzies Allyson K. , Boutin Stan , McAdam Andrew G. , Lane Jeffrey E. , Humphries Murray M.
Published: December 2018

The miniaturization and affordability of new technology is driving a biologging revolution in wildlife ecology with use of animal‐borne data logging devices. Among many new biologging technologies, accelerometers are emerging as key tools for continuously recording animal behavior. Yet a critical, but under‐acknowledged consideration in biologging is the trade‐off between sampling rate and sampling duration, created by battery‐ (or memory‐) related sampling constraints. This is especially acute among small animals, causing most researchers to sample at high rates for very limited durations. Here, we show that high accuracy in behavioral classification is achievable when pairing low‐frequency acceleration recordings with temperature. We conducted 84 hr of direct behavioral observations on 67 free‐ranging red squirrels (200–300 g) that were fitted with accelerometers (2 g) recording tri‐axial acceleration and temperature at 1 Hz. We then used a random forest algorithm and a manually created decision tree, with variable sampling window lengths, to associate observed behavior with logger recorded acceleration and temperature. Finally, we assessed the accuracy of these different classifications using an additional 60 hr of behavioral observations, not used in the initial classification. The accuracy of the manually created decision tree classification using observational data varied from 70.6% to 91.6% depending on the complexity of the tree, with increasing accuracy as complexity decreased. Short duration behavior like running had lower accuracy than long‐duration behavior like feeding. The random forest algorithm offered similarly high overall accuracy, but the manual decision tree afforded the flexibility to create a hierarchical tree, and to adjust sampling window length for behavioral states with varying durations. Low frequency biologging of acceleration and temperature allows accurate behavioral classification of small animals over multi‐month sampling durations. Nevertheless, low sampling rates impose several important limitations, especially related to assessing the classification accuracy of short duration behavior.
Fine‐root traits are linked to species dynamics in a successional plant community
Authors: Caplan Joshua S. , Meiners Scott J. , Flores‐Moreno Habacuc , McCormack M. Luke
Published: December 2018

Despite the importance of fine roots for the acquisition of soil resources such as nitrogen and water, the study of linkages between traits and both population and community dynamics remains focused on aboveground traits. We address this gap by investigating associations between belowground traits and metrics of species dynamics. Our analysis included 85 species from a long‐term data set on the transition from old field to forest in eastern North America (the Buell‐Small Succession Study) and the new Fine‐Root Ecology Database. Given the prominent roles of life form (woody vs. non‐woody) and species origin (native vs. exotic) in defining functional relationships, we also assessed whether traits or their relationships with species dynamics differed for these groups. Species that reached their peak abundance early in succession had fine‐root traits corresponding to resource acquisitive strategies (i.e., they were thinner, less dense, and had higher nitrogen concentrations) while species that peaked progressively later had increasingly conservative strategies. In addition to having more acquisitive root traits than native species, exotics diverged from the above successional trend, having consistently thinner fine roots regardless of the community context. Species with more acquisitive fine‐root morphologies typically had faster rates of abundance increase and achieved their maximal rates in fewer years. Decreasing soil nutrient availability and increasing belowground competition may become increasingly strong filters in successional communities, acting on root traits to promote a transition from acquisitive to conservative foraging. However, disturbances that increase light and soil resource availability at local scales may allow acquisitive species, especially invasive exotics, to continue colonizing late into the community transition to forest.
Progression of glucose‐lowering diabetes therapy in TECOS
Authors: Bethel M. Angelyn , Engel Samuel S. , Stevens Susanna R. , Lokhnygina Yuliya , Ding Jie , Josse Robert G. , Alvarsson Michael , Hramiak Irene , Green Jennifer B. , Peterson Eric D. , Holman Rury R. ,   on behalf of the TECOS Study Group
Published: December 2018

Aims

TECOS was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial assessing the impact of sitagliptin vs. placebo on cardiovascular outcomes when added to usual care in patients with type 2 diabetes. We report the use of concomitant diabetes medications and the risk for progression to insulin during follow‐up.

Materials and Methods

TECOS enrolled 14 671 participants with HbA1c 6.5%‐8.0% on monotherapy with metformin, pioglitazone, sulfonylurea (SU), or dual therapy with two oral agents or insulin with or without metformin. Subsequent diabetes management was by the participant's usual care physician. Time to initiation of insulin and risk of hypoglycaemia were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

The most common glucose‐lowering regimens at baseline were metformin monotherapy (30.2%), SU monotherapy (8.5%), metformin/SU therapy (35.1%), and insulin with or without metformin (13.9% and 8.6%, respectively). Over a median 3.0 years’ follow‐up, diabetes therapy was intensified in 25.2% of participants (sitagliptin 22.0%, placebo 28.3%). Medications most commonly added were SU (8.3%) or insulin (8.8%). Insulin initiation in the usual care setting occurred at mean (standard deviation) HbA1c of 8.5 (1.5)%. Sitagliptin did not impact rates of severe hypoglycaemia, but delayed progression to insulin when added to metformin or metformin/SU regimens.

Conclusion

Consistent with the trial's pragmatic design, TECOS participants underwent typical progression of diabetes medications. Sitagliptin was associated with lower HbA1c, without increased risk for severe hypoglycaemia and was associated with delayed progression to insulin when added to metformin with or without SU.
Increased dwell time and occurrence of dsDNA translocation events through solid state nanopores by LiCl concentration gradients
Authors: Bello Julian , Mowla Maksudul , Troise Nicholas , Soyring Joanna , Borgesi Julia , Shim Jiwook
Published: December 2018

Solid‐state nanopore based biosensors are cost effective, high‐throughput engines for single molecule detection of biomolecules with the added benefit of size modification. Progress in the translation of the science into a viable diagnostic tool is impeded by inadequate sensitivity of data acquisition systems in detection of fast DNA translocations through the pore. To combat this, slowing the transport of DNA through the nanopore by use of various media or by altering experimental parameters is common. Applying a concentration gradient of KCl in the experimental ionic solution has been shown to effectively prolong dwell times as well as increase the capture rate of DNA by the nanopore. Our previous work has corroborated the ability of LiCl ionic solution to slow down the transport of dsDNA through the nanopore by up to 10‐fold through cation‐DNA interactions. However, this drastically reduced the event occurrence frequency, thus hindering the efficacy of this system as a reliable biosensor downstream. Here, we present the use of a concentration gradient of lithium chloride ionic solution to increase the event frequency of single molecule dsDNA translocation through a solid state nanopore. By using 0.5 M/3 M LiCl on the cis/trans chambers respectively, average dwell times experienced up to a 3‐fold increase when compared to experiments run in symmetric 1 M LiCl. Additionally, experiments using the 0.5 M/3 M displayed a greater than 10‐fold increase in event frequency, confirming the capture propensity of the asymmetric conditions.
Monitoring phase transition of aqueous biomass model substrates by high‐pressure and high‐temperature microfluidics
Authors: Ripken Renée M. , Schlautmann Stefan , Sanders Remco G.P. , Gardeniers Johannes G.E. , Le Gac Séverine
Published: December 2018

Aqueous‐Phase Reforming (APR) is a promising hydrogen production method, where biomass is catalytically reformed under high pressure and high temperature reaction conditions. To eventually study APR, in this paper, we report a high‐pressure and high‐temperature microfluidic platform that can withstand temperatures up to 200°C and pressures up to 30 bar. As a first step, we studied the phase transition of four typical APR biomass model solutions, consisting of 10 wt% of ethylene glycol, glycerol, xylose or xylitol in MilliQ water. After calibration of the set‐up using pure MilliQ water, a small increase in boiling point was observed for the ethylene glycol, xylitol and xylose solutions compared to pure water. Phase transition occurred through either explosive or nucleate boiling mechanisms, which was monitored in real‐time in our microfluidic device. In case of nucleate boiling, the nucleation site could be controlled by exploiting the pressure drop along the microfluidic channel. Depending on the void fraction, various multiphase flow patterns were observed simultaneously. Altogether, this study will not only help to distinguish between bubbles resulting from a phase transition and/or APR product formation, but is also important from a heat and mass transport perspective.
In‐line coupling of supported liquid membrane extraction across nanofibrous membrane to capillary electrophoresis for analysis of basic drugs from undiluted body fluids
Authors: Dvořák Miloš , Kubáň Pavel
Published: December 2018

Planar polyamide 6 nanofibrous membrane was for the first time used in direct coupling of supported liquid membrane (SLM) extraction to CE analysis. Disposable microextraction device with the nanofibrous membrane was preassembled and stored for immediate use. The membrane in the device was impregnated with 1 µL of 1‐ethyl‐2‐nitrobenzene and the device was subsequently filled with 10 µL of acceptor solution (10 mM HCl) and 15 µL of donor solution (sample). The device was in‐line coupled to CE system for selective extraction and direct injection, separation and quantification of model basic drugs (nortriptyline, haloperidol, loperamide and papaverine) from standard saline solutions (150 mM NaCl) and from undiluted human body fluids (urine and blood plasma). Compared to standard polypropylene supporting material, the nanofibrous membrane demonstrated superior characteristics in terms of lower consumption of organic solvents, constant volumes of operational solutions, full transparency and possibility to preassemble the devices. Extraction parameters were better or comparable for the nanofibrous vs. the polypropylene membrane and the hyphenated SLM‐CE method with the nanofibrous membrane was characterized by good repeatability (RSD ≤ 11.3%), linearity (r2 ≥ 0.9953; 0.5–20 mg/L), sensitivity (LOD ≤ 0.4 mg/L) and transfer (27–126%) of the basic drugs.
Monitoring urban environmental pollution by bivariate control charts: New methodology and case study in Santiago, Chile
Authors: Marchant Carolina , Leiva Víctor , Christakos George , Cavieres M. Fernanda
Published: December 2018

Particulate matter (PM) pollution is a serious environmental problem. Santiago of Chile is one of the most polluted cities in the world in terms of PM2.5 and PM10. Monitoring of environmental risk is useful for detecting and preventing adverse effects on human health in highly polluted cities. In this paper, we propose a methodology for monitoring PM pollution in Santiago based on bivariate quality control charts and an asymmetric distribution. A simulation study is carried out to evaluate performance of the proposed methodology. A case study with PM pollution real‐world data from Santiago is provided, which shows that the methodology is suitable to alert early episodes of extreme air pollution. The results are in agreement with the critical episodes reported with the current model used by the Chilean health authority.
Development of temporal lobe epilepsy during maintenance electroconvulsive therapy: A case of human kindling?
Authors: Schotte Caroline , Cleeren Evy , Goffin Karolien , Hunyadi Borbala , Buggenhout Satya , Van Laere Koen , Van Paesschen Wim
Published: December 2018

We describe a patient with new‐onset temporal lobe epilepsy during prolonged maintenance electroconvulsive therapy. We suggest a possible causal relationship with maintenance electroconvulsive therapy through electrical kindling of the temporal lobe.
A genome‐wide association study of sodium levels and drug metabolism in an epilepsy cohort treated with carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine
Authors: Berghuis Bianca , Stapleton Caragh , Sonsma Anja C. M. , Hulst Janic , de Haan Gerrit‐Jan , Lindhout Dick , Demurtas Rita ,   The EpiPGX Consortium, Krause Roland , Depondt Chantal , Kunz Wolfram S. , Zara Federico , Striano Pasquale , Craig John , Auce Pauls , Marson Anthony G. , Stefansson Hreinn , O'Brien Terence J. , Johnson Michael R. , Sills Graeme J. , Wolking Stefan , Lerche Holger , Sisodiya Sanjay M. , Sander Josemir W. , Cavalleri Gianpiero L. , Koeleman Bobby P. C. , McCormack Mark
Published: December 2018

Objective

To ascertain the clinical and genetic factors contributing to carbamazepine‐ and oxcarbazepine‐induced hyponatremia (COIH), and to carbamazepine (CBZ) metabolism, in a retrospectively collected, cross‐sectional cohort of people with epilepsy.

Methods

We collected data on serum sodium levels and antiepileptic drug levels in people with epilepsy attending a tertiary epilepsy center while on treatment with CBZ or OXC. We defined hyponatremia as Na+ ≤134 mEq/L. We estimated the CBZ metabolic ratio defined as the log transformation of the ratio of metabolite CBZ‐diol to unchanged drug precursor substrate as measured in serum.

Results

Clinical and genetic data relating to carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine trials were collected in 1141 patients. We did not observe any genome‐wide significant associations with sodium level in a linear trend or hyponatremia as a dichotomous trait. Age, sex, number of comedications, phenytoin use, phenobarbital use, and sodium valproate use were significant predictors of CBZ metabolic ratio. No genome‐wide significant associations with CBZ metabolic ratio were found.

Significance

Although we did not detect a genetic predictor of hyponatremia or CBZ metabolism in our cohort, our findings suggest that the determinants of CBZ metabolism are multifactorial.
Partnering with traditional Chiefs to expand access to cervical cancer prevention services in rural Zambia
Authors: Kapambwe Sharon , Mwanahamuntu Mulindi , Pinder Leeya F. , Chisele Samson , Chirwa Susan C. , Parham Groesbeck P.
Published: December 2018

Objective

To evaluate how the influence of traditional Chiefs can be leveraged to promote access to cervical cancer prevention services in rural Zambia.

Methods

A retrospective review of outcome data was conducted for all screening outreach events that occurred in Zambian Chiefdoms between October 4, 2015, and October 3, 2016. Members of the health promotion team of the Cervical Cancer Prevention Program in Zambia visited local Chiefs to inform them of the importance of cervical cancer prevention. The local Chiefs then summoned adults living within their Chiefdoms to assemble for cervical cancer prevention health talks. Screen‐and‐treat services were implemented within each of the Chiefdoms over a 1‐week period.

Results

VIA‐enhanced digital imaging of the cervix (digital cervicography) was offered to 8399 women in ten Chiefdoms as part of a village‐based screening (VBS) program. In all, 419 (4.9%) women had positive screening test results. Of these women, 276 (65.8%) were treated immediately with thermocoagulation and 143 (34.1%) were referred to provincial government hospitals to undergo either the loop electrosurgical excision procedure/large loop excision of the transformation zone (n=109, 26.0%) or punch biopsy (n=34, 8.1%).

Conclusion

The influence of traditional Chiefs was leveraged to facilitate access to cervical cancer prevention services in rural Zambia.
Dehydroepiandrosterone stimulates inflammation and impairs ovarian functions of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Li Yulin , Zheng Qin , Sun Dan , Cui Xinyuan , Chen Siyi , Bulbul Ahmmed , Liu Shuai , Yan Qiu
Published: December 2018

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of infertility in child‐bearing‐age women. It is characterized by ovulation dysfunction, polycystic ovaries, and hyperandrogenism. Inflammation is likely to be a crucial contributor to the pathogenesis of PCOS. However, the association between the inflammatory cytokines and the development of PCOS has not been reported. To explore the relationship between the inflammatory cytokines and PCOS, alterations of serum proteins in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)‐induced PCOS rats were screened by protein array, and the concentration of IFN‐γ was further measured by using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). DHEA‐induced PCOS rats had a decreased level of IFN‐γ compared with the control rats, which was restored partly in flutamide (an androgen receptor antagonist)‐treated rats. Moreover, the level of IFN‐γ in serum of patients with PCOS was also lower than that in healthy women. Using the ovarian granulosa cells (KGN), we demonstrated that DHEA downregulated the expression and secretion of IFN‐γ in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners, which could be restored to some extent by treating with flutamide. Furthermore, flutamide ameliorated the inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and promotive effect on cell apoptosis by DHEA. The results also revealed that IFN‐γ promoted the proliferation but inhibited the apoptosis of KGN cells, which was suppressed by DHEA via activating the downstream PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Taken together, these results showed that DHEA inhibited the proliferation and promoted the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells through downregulating the expression of IFN‐γ which could be restored by flutamide, and IFN‐γ may serve as a potential inflammatory biomarker for PCOS detection.
Combination therapy of mesenchymal stromal cells and sulfasalazine attenuates trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid induced colitis in the rat: The S1P pathway
Authors: Yousefi‐Ahmadipour Aliakbar , Rashidian Amir , Mirzaei Mohammad Reza , Farsinejad Alireza , PourMohammadi‐Nejad Fatemeh , Ghazi‐Khansari Mahmoud , Ai Jafar , Shirian Sadegh , Allahverdi Amir , Saremi Jamileh , Ebrahimi‐Barough Somayeh
Published: December 2018

Adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) transplantation is a novel immunomodulatory therapeutic tool to ameliorate the symptom of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of combined sufasalazine and ASCs therapy in a rat model of IBD. After induction of colitis in rats, ASCs were cultured and intraperitoneally injected (3 × 106cells/kg) into the rats on Days 1 and 5 after inducing colitis, in conjunction with daily oral administration of low dose of sulfasalazine (30 mg/kg). The regenerative effects of combination of ASCs and sulfasalazine on ulcerative colitis were assessed by measuring body weight, colonic weight/length ratio, disease activity index, macroscopic scores, histopathological examinations, cytokine, and inflammation markers profiles. In addition, western blot analysis was used to assess the levels of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and apoptosis related proteins in colitis tissues. Simultaneous treatment with ASCs and sulfasalazine was associated with significant amelioration of disease activity index, macroscopic and microscopic colitis scores, as well as inhibition of the proinflammatory cytokines in trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)‐induced colitis. Moreover, combined ASCs and sulfasalazine therapy effectively inhibited the NF‐κB signaling pathway, reduced the expression of Bax and prevented the loss of Bcl‐2 proteins in colon tissue of the rats with TNBS‐induced colitis. Furthermore, combined treatment with ASCs and sulfasalazine shifted inflammatory M1 to anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages by decreasing the levels of MCP1, CXCL9 and increasing IL‐10, Arg‐1 levels. In conclusion, combination of ASCs with conventional IBD therapy is potentially a much more powerful strategy to slow the progression of colitis via reducing inflammatory and apoptotic markers than either therapy alone.
Making Time Matter: A Review of Research on Time and Meaning
Authors: Rudd Melanie , Catapano Rhia , Aaker Jennifer
Published: December 2018

In this conceptual article, we review three decades of research on time and meaning in consumer research and psychology to identify key themes that have emerged, build frameworks that integrate past research, and reveal areas of potential for future empirical exploration. We begin by carving out a conceptual understanding of meaning in life and identifying time as a key lens through which the pursuit of meaning can be viewed. We then review extant research on how to spend and construe time in ways that enhance meaning, relying on two frameworks—one anchored in three dimensions of meaning (purpose, mattering, and comprehension) and the other in three levels of time (momentary, day‐to‐day, and lifetime). We conclude by outlining several directions for future research focused on deepening our understanding of how consumers can think about and use their time in ways that boost their sense of meaning in life.
A Match Made in Heaven or Down Under? The Effectiveness of Matching Visual and Verbal Horizons in Advertising
Authors: Roose Gudrun , Vermeir Iris , Geuens Maggie , Van Kerckhove Anneleen
Published: December 2018

According to construal level theory, consumers’ processing styles become more abstract as psychological distance increases, but they grow more concrete when psychological distance decreases. This study provides evidence that panoramic pictures in which the horizon appears in the lower versus upper part of the frame trigger a different level of construal. As such, this study raises a novel source of construal. In addition, this study shows that when both visual (e.g., horizon height) and verbal (e.g., temporal benefit) advertising elements induce the same level of construal, advertising effectiveness increases. This work differs from previous research in that it focuses on the construal fit evoked by two advertisement features rather than a fit in construal between an external stimulus and the internal mindset of the consumer.
A reliable and efficient small‐signal parameter extraction method for GaN HEMTs
Authors: Chen Yongbo , Xu Yuehang , Luo Yong , Wang Changsi , Wen Zhang , Yan Bo , Xu Ruimin
Published: December 2018

In this paper, a reliable and efficient parameter extraction method for GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) small‐signal models has been proposed. By utilizing parameter scanning method, the initial values of the extrinsic elements are first extracted from the cold pinch‐off and cold unbiased measurement conditions, respectively. An iterative optimization algorithm is employed then to optimize the extrinsic elements. This scanning and iteration combined algorithm based on a direct extraction method of extrinsic elements can reduce the impact of the approximation error, which makes the determined values of the small‐signal parameters more reliable. The extraction flow has been realized in a Matlab program for efficiency. A 16‐element small‐signal equivalent circuit model (SSECM) for GaN HEMTs has been employed, and the new parameter extraction method has been validated by comparing the simulated small‐signal S‐parameters with the measured data from 0.1 GHz to 40 GHz for two different device dimensions.
Determination of 18 phenolic acids in tobacco and rhizosphere soil by ultra high performance liquid chromatography combined with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen YuXi , Chen Wei , Lan Yan , Wang KaiTeng , Wu YongChen , Zhong XiaoLi , Ying KaiYang , Li JunYing , Yang GuiDi
Published: December 2018

An ultra high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method for the determination of free and bound phenolic acids in tobacco plant and soil was developed. A simple solid‐phase extraction, which used Polar Enhanced Polymer column as stationary phase and methanol as mobile phase, was used for the clean‐up of bound phenolic acids, and a liquid‐phase extraction using chloroform as solvent was used to purify free phenolic acids. With our method, 18 phenolic acids in rhizosphere soil of continuous cropping flue‐cured cultivar k326 were separated and determined within 6 min with recoveries of 82–107% and relative standard deviations (n = 5) of 1.1–4.8%. Results showed that free phenolic acids accounted for 0–9, 92–100, and 69–100% of total phenolic acids in rhizosphere soil, cultivar k326 roots and leaves, respectively. Results also revealed that p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, p‐coumaric acid, vanillic acid, ferulic acid, and syringic acid were the predominant phenolic acids in rhizosphere soil of cultivar k326, and continuous cropping of cultivar k326 in the same farmland could lead to the accumulation of these phenolic acids in soil except syringic acid. The determination of phenolic acids provided detailed information for evaluating their source and characteristics in continuous cropping tobacco plant and soil.
Effect of inorganic salt on partition of high‐polarity parishins in two‐phase solvent systems and separation by high‐speed counter‐current chromatography from Gastrodia elata Blume
Authors: Dong Hongjing , Yao Xue , Liu Dahui , Zhou Tao , Wu Guozhen , Zheng Xiuhua , Wang Xiao
Published: December 2018

Parishins are high‐polarity and major bioactive constituents in Gastrodia elata Blume. In this study, the effect of several inorganic salts on the partition of parishins in two‐phase solvent systems was investigated. Adding ammonium sulfate, which has a higher solubility in water, was found to significantly promote the partition of parishins in the upper organic polar solvents. Based on the results, a two‐phase solvent system composed of butyl alcohol/acetonitrile/near‐saturated ammonium sulfate solution/water (1.5:0.5:1.2:1, v/v/v/v) was used for the purification of parishins by high‐speed counter‐current chromatography. Fractions obtained from high‐speed counter‐current chromatography were subjected to semi‐preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography to remove salt and impurities. As a result, parishin E (6.0 mg), parishin B (7.8 mg), parishin C (3.2 mg), gastrodin (15.3 mg), and parishin A (7.3 mg) were isolated from water extract of Gastrodia elata Blume (400 mg). These results demonstrated that adding inorganic salt that has high solubility in water to the two‐phase solvent system in high‐speed counter‐current chromatography was a suitable approach for the purification of high‐polarity compounds.
Contemporary Review and Case Report of Botulinum Resistance in Facial Synkinesis
Authors: Shinn Justin R. , Nwabueze Nkechi N. , Patel Priyesh , Norton Cathey , Ries W. Russell , Stephan Scott J.
Published: December 2018

Background

Botulinum resistance poses significant treatment challenges for both patients and healthcare practitioners. We first present a case highlighting botulinum resistance in a patient who failed to respond to alternative formulations but who responded remarkably to incobotulinum toxinA, an identical toxin free of complexing proteins. Secondly, we provide a treatment algorithm and a review of the literature detailing clinical and immunochemical botulinum resistance.

Results

Patients with botulinum resistance show a predisposition to failure on subsequent injections and possess a propensity toward neutralizing and nonneutralizing antibody development. The mechanisms of resistance are not entirely understood but thought to be secondary to an immunologic response. Risk factors for resistance include higher botulinum doses, more frequent injections, and high total lifetime dosage. Patients may still respond to other botulinum formulations or subtypes; however, this effect may be temporary.

Conclusion

This case report describes a patient who responded to incobotulinum toxinA after failing treatment with the identical toxin compounded with buffer proteins, ultimately supporting the possibility of immune‐mediated resistance to the surrounding proteins and not the toxin itself. Often, impending treatment resistance is preceded by a poor or limited clinical response. Antibody testing is not indicated because it is neither sensitive nor specific and does not change clinical practice. Initially, higher doses of botulinum may overcome resistance without increasing treatment frequency, and side effects are far less common in those with clinical resistance. If higher dosages fail to produce a response, alternative botulinum formulations or subtypes can be considered.

Laryngoscope, 129:2269–2273, 2019
Corrosion protection of steel cut‐edges by hot‐dip galvanized Al(Zn,Mg) coatings in 1 wt% NaCl: Part I. Experimental study
Authors: Dolgikh Olga , Simillion Hans , Lamaka Sviatlana V. , Bastos Alexandre C. , Xue Huibin B. , Taryba Maryna G. , Oliveira Andre R. , Allély Christian , Van Den Bossche Bart , Van Den Bergh Krista , De Strycker Joost , Deconinck Johan
Published: December 2018

Corrosion of AlZnMg coated steel in chloride media is a complicated process, which progress is determined not only by the electrode reactions but also by the local pH and formation of soluble and insoluble corrosion products. In order to adequately describe and predict the corrosion behavior of steel/AlZnMg cut‐edge, a multi‐ion transport, and reaction model (MITReM) is built. Such model takes into account the transport of species in the solution together with their production/consumption in electrochemical and chemical reactions. The main aim of this work is the validation of a numerical model for describing and predicting corrosion of steel/AlZnMg cut‐edge in immersed conditions. This first part describes the experimental work done to obtain model input parameters and validation measurements. The metallic coatings are characterized experimentally with respect to their composition and microstructure, global and local electrochemical behavior (polarization curves, AESEC, and SVET). Local distribution of corrosion products and local pH are also characterized. No blocking effect of the precipitated corrosion products has been observed and dedicated measurements are performed to validate this observation. Based on the experimental input from this part, numerical models of cut‐edge corrosion with different levels of details are developed in Part II.
Surface‐based registration between CT and US for image‐guided percutaneous renal access – A feasibility study
Authors: Gomes‐Fonseca João , Queirós Sandro , Morais Pedro , Pinho António C. M. , Fonseca Jaime C. , Correia‐Pinto Jorge , Lima Estêvão , Vilaça João L.
Published: December 2018

Purpose

As a crucial step in accessing the kidney in several minimally invasive interventions, percutaneous renal access (PRA) practicality and safety may be improved through the fusion of computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound (US) data. This work aims to assess the potential of a surface‐based registration technique and establish an optimal US acquisition protocol to fuse two‐dimensional (2D) US and CT data for image‐guided PRA.

Methods

Ten porcine kidney phantoms with fiducial markers were imaged using CT and three‐dimensional (3D) US. Both images were manually segmented and aligned. In a virtual environment, 2D contours were extracted by slicing the 3D US kidney surfaces and using usual PRA US‐guided views, while the 3D CT kidney surfaces were transformed to simulate positional variability. Surface‐based registration was performed using two methods of the iterative closest point algorithm (point‐to‐point, ICP1; and point‐to‐plane, ICP2), while four acquisition variants were studied: (a) use of single‐plane (transverse, SPT; or longitudinal, SPL) vs bi‐plane views (BP); (b) use of different kidney's coverage ranges acquired by a probe's sweep; (c) influence of sweep movements; and (d) influence of the spacing between consecutive slices acquired for a specific coverage range.

Results

BP view showed the best performance (TRE = 2.26 mm) when ICP2 method, a wide kidney coverage range (20°, with slices spaced by 5°), and a large sweep along the central longitudinal view were used, showing a statistically similar performance (P = 0.097) to a full 3D US surface registration (TRE = 2.28 mm).

Conclusions

An optimal 2D US acquisition protocol was evaluated. Surface‐based registration, using multiple slices and specific sweep movements and views, is here suggested as a valid strategy for intraoperative image fusion using CT and US data, having the potential to be applied to other image modalities and/or interventions.
Nonlinear consolidation of vertical drains with coupled radial‐vertical flow considering time and depth dependent vacuum pressure
Authors: Liu Si‐jie , Geng Xue‐yu , Sun Hong‐lei , Cai Yuan‐qiang , Pan Xiao‐dong , Shi Li
Published: December 2018

The system of vacuum pressure combined with vertical drains to accelerate soil consolidation is one of the most effective ground improvement methods. The consolidation theories of soft soil improved by vertical drains including void ratio–dependent compressibility and permeability have been widely applied in practice to predict the consolidation behavior. In this paper, analytical solutions of the consolidation of vertical drains are derived incorporating the loss and propagating stage of vacuum pressure. In addition, special solutions are obtained for the cases of instantaneous surcharge loading and staged surcharge loading, based on the general solution. The solution is verified by ignoring the propagating stage of vacuum pressure formation and comparing it with an existing solution. The effects of vacuum pressure loss and propagating stage combined with other parameters are investigated through the ratio between excess pore water pressure and surcharge loading.
Production planning with multiple production lines: Forward algorithm and insights on process design for volume flexibility
Authors: Chand Suresh , Teyarachakul Prime Sunantha , Sethi Suresh
Published: December 2018

This paper considers the production planning problem of a firm that produces a single product using a process that has multiple production lines (or machines) in parallel, each with a finite production capacity. Specifically, the firm has m parallel production lines, each with capacity of P units per period. If needed, the firm can adjust the production rate in a period by adjusting the number of lines it operates in the period. The firm faces time‐varying demands. The objective is to find a production plan that meets the demands over the problem horizon and minimizes the sum of setup, holding and variable production costs. The paper develops an efficient forward dynamic programming algorithm and uses it to develop managerial insights on the effect of process design on “volume flexibility,” which is defined as “the ability to be operated profitably at different output levels.” Some forecast horizon results are also developed. The firm can use the results in the paper to optimize the process design for the demand it faces.
Rendezvous search with markers that can be dropped at chosen times
Authors: Leone Pierre , Alpern Steve
Published: December 2018

The Rendezvous search problem asks how two noncomunnicating players, who move at unit‐speed after a random placement in the search region (in this article, the line), can minimize their expected meeting time. Baston and Gal () solved a version where each player leaves a marker at his starting point, for example parachutes left after jumping into the search region. Here we consider that one or both players have markers which they can drop at chosen times. When the players are placed facing random directions at a distance D on the line the optimal expected meeting times R are known to be as follows: With no markers, R = 13D/8; with one each dropped at the start, R = 3D/2. Here we show that when only one player has a marker, but it can be dropped at any time, we still have R = 3D/2, obtained by dropping the marker at time D/4. Having both players drop markers at chosen times does not further reduce R. We adopt a new algorithmic approach which first fixes the dropping times and then reduces the resulting problem to a finite one. We also consider evanescent markers, which are detectable for a specified time T after being dropped, modeling pheromone scent markers used by some species in mate search or stain dropped by sailors. From a less theoretical and more practical point of view, we can see our problem as that faced by two hikers who get separated when they are walking not too far from a coast. A reasonable Rendezvous strategy is for each of them to head in the general direction of the coastline. On reaching the sea, they can calculate (based on their speed and time taken to reach to coast) the maximum distance along the coastline where the other one arrives. Then they can use our solution, taking that distance as our parameter D. Of course if it turns out that they reached the sea at points closer than D, their Rendezvous time will only be shorter. So our solution can be interpreted as a worst case expected meeting time. The marker might be a note scribbled on the sand, or a pile of rocks. Perhaps before getting separated they would have decided which roles (I or II) each would take up, being careful and cautious hikers. So in particular the hiker taking the role of the marker placer would put down a marker of some sort when he had walked along the coast one quarter the maximum distance to his partner. If the other finds it, he would know for sure the direction of the hiker who dropped it. Another thing to take away from this article is our result that says “two markers are not better than one.” This observation has some significance in the mate search context, where males and females use pheromone deposits to help find each other. In most species, it is only the females who can make such deposits, and the males can detect it. Giving both species the depositing facility would be more costly in terms of energy and, given our negative result, might not significantly reduce Rendezvous times. So in a speculative sense, our result has some explanatory value in this context.
Stochastic comparisons of replacement policies in coherent systems under minimal repair
Authors: Arriaza Antonio , Navarro Jorge , Suárez‐Llorens Alfonso
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we study stochastic comparisons of the coherent systems obtained under different repair policies. We consider minimal repairs of the components, that is, a failed component is replaced by another component which is similar (ie, it has the same distribution) to the replaced one and with the same age. Under these assumptions, we study how to determine the best replacement policies. Two general methods are proposed, one for systems with identically distributed components and another one for systems with ordered (in different stochastic senses) components. Both methods can be applied to systems with independent or dependent components. We use these methods to determine the optimal repair policies in some particular cases. We pay special attention to series and parallel systems with independent or dependent components. An algorithm to find the optimal replacement policy (when it exists) is provided.
Sequential sampling for CGMY processes via decomposition of their time changes
Authors: Zhang Chengwei , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: December 2018

We present a new and easy‐to‐implement sequential sampling method for Carr–Geman–Madan–Yor (CGMY) processes with either finite or infinite variation, exploiting the time change representation of the CGMY model and a decomposition of its time change. We find that the time change can be decomposed into two independent components. While the first component is a finite generalized gamma convolution process whose increments can be sampled by either the exact double CFTP (“coupling from the past”) method or an approximation scheme with high speed and accuracy, the second component can easily be made arbitrarily small in the L1 sense. Simulation results show that the proposed method is advantageous over two existing methods under a model calibrated to historical option price data.
Relative aging of (n − k + 1)‐out‐of‐n systems based on cumulative hazard and cumulative reversed hazard functions
Authors: Misra Neeraj , Francis Jisha
Published: December 2018

The notion of relative aging describes the rate at which one system ages relative to the other. Di Crescenzo, and Sengupta and Deshpande defined two notions of relative aging based on monotonicity of ratios of cumulative reversed hazard functions and cumulative hazard functions, respectively. In this paper, we discuss the relative aging of (n − k + 1)‐out‐of‐n systems in terms of these notions.
Pathophysiology of Critical Illness and Role of Nutrition
Authors: Sharma Kavita , Mogensen Kris M. , Robinson Malcolm K.
Published: December 2018

Critical illness is a hypercatabolic state. It has been hypothesized that timely and adequate nutrition support may optimize the host response and thereby minimize nutritionally related complications while improving overall outcome. Any illness in due course can lead to a malnourished state—critical illness can worsen this state as patients may become immunocompromised and unable to mount an adequate inflammatory response and therefore susceptible to poor outcomes. Data indicate that prevalence of malnutrition in the ICU ranges from 38% to 78% and is independently associated with poor outcomes. Hence, exploring the role of nutrition as a way to mitigate critical illness is important. In this review, the basic pathophysiology of critical illness and how it alters carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism are discussed. This is followed by a discussion of malnutrition and how it affects patient and hospital outcomes. Finally, a summary of the available evidence regarding nutrition support and its impact on outcomes are provided. This review is not intended to provide practice‐based guidelines; instead, it intends to highlight available data on the role of nutrition support in critically ill patients.
Dysphagia: Interprofessional Management, Impact, and Patient‐Centered Care
Authors: McGinnis Carol Marie , Homan Kimberly , Solomon Meghan , Taylor Julia , Staebell Kimberly , Erger Denise , Raut Namrata
Published: December 2018

Dysphagia affects a multitude of people worldwide with tremendous impact on the affected individual, families, and caregivers. Understanding dysphagia, as well as the status of screening, evaluation, and treatment, aids in the knowledge required by a interprofessional team to holistically care for patients with dysphagia and their caregivers. The impact of dysphagia includes potential associated risk and a cascade of effects. Conversations regarding meeting nutrition and fluid needs with consideration for quality of life need to be integrated into the plan of care for individuals with dysphagia.