bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Early Second‐Trimester Sonography Predict Adverse Perinatal Outcomes in Monochorionic Diamniotic Twin Pregnancies?
Authors: Allaf M. Baraa , Campbell Winston A. , Vintzileos Anthony M. , Haeri Sina , Javadian Pouya , Shamshirsaz Amir A. , Ogburn Paul , Figueroa Reinaldo , Wax Joseph , Markenson Glenn , Chavez Martin R. , Ravangard Samadh F. , Ruano Rodrigo , Sangi-Haghpeykar Haleh , Salmanian Bahram , Meyer Marjorie , Johnson Jeffery , Ozhand Ali , Davis Sarah , Borgida Adam , Belfort Michael A. , Shamshirsaz Alireza A.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To determine whether intertwin discordant abdominal circumference, femur length, head circumference, and estimated fetal weight sonographic measurements in early second‐trimester monochorionic diamniotic twins predict adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study involving 9 regional perinatal centers in the United States. We examined the records of all monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies with two live fetuses at the 16‐ to 18‐week sonographic examination who had serial follow‐up sonography until delivery. The intertwin discordance in abdominal circumference, femur length, head circumference, and estimated fetal weight was calculated as the difference between the two fetuses, expressed as a percentage of the larger using the 16‐ to 18‐week sonographic measurements. An adverse composite obstetric outcome was defined as the occurrence of 1 or more of the following in either fetus: intrauterine growth restriction, twin‐twin transfusion syndrome, intrauterine fetal death, abnormal growth discordance (≥20% difference), and very preterm birth at or before 28 weeks. An adverse composite neonatal outcome was defined as the occurrence of 1 or more of the following: respiratory distress syndrome, any stage of intraventricular hemorrhage, 5‐minute Apgar score less than 7, necrotizing enterocolitis, culture‐proven early‐onset sepsis, and neonatal death. Receiver operating characteristic and logistic regression–with–generalized estimating equation analyses were constructed.

Results

Among the 177 monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies analyzed, intertwin abdominal circumference and estimated fetal weight discordances were only predictive of adverse composite obstetric outcomes (areas under the curve, 79% and 80%, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that intertwin discordances in abdominal circumference, femur length, head circumference, and estimated fetal weight were not acceptable predictors of twin‐twin transfusion syndrome or adverse neonatal outcomes.

Conclusions

In our cohort, only second‐trimester abdominal circumference and estimated fetal weight discordances in monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies were predictive of adverse composite obstetric outcomes. Twin‐twin transfusion syndrome and adverse neonatal outcomes were not predicted by any of the intertwin discordances measured.
Sonographic Diagnosis of Tuberculous Lymphadenitis in the Neck
Authors: Park Jun Ho , Kim Dong Wook
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of individual sonographic features and sonographic diagnosis for patients with a clinical suspicion of tuberculous lymphadenitis in the neck.

Methods

From January 2010 to December 2011, 79 patients who underwent neck sonography and sonographically guided fine‐needle aspiration with tuberculosis polymerase chain reaction analysis for clinical suspicion of tuberculous lymphadenitis in the neck were enrolled in the study. The sonographic features of each patient were retrospectively investigated by a single radiologist using a picture archiving and communication system, and a sonographic diagnosis according to the number of sonographic features was developed. Follow‐up sonography, polymerase chain reaction, core needle biopsy, or excision biopsy of lymph nodes from the neck was used for the final diagnosis.

Results

The diagnoses of the 79 patients were finally confirmed as tuberculous lymphadenitis (n = 40), suppurative lymphadenitis (n = 2), Kikuchi disease (n = 12), metastatic lymph nodes (n = 9), and nonspecific lymphadenitis (n = 16). No sonographic features with both high sensitivity and specificity were found. In a receiver operating characteristic analysis of sonographic diagnosis, the category of 2 or more sonographic features showed the highest area under the curve. When the “2 or more” category was selected, the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of sonography for diagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis were 95.0%, 79.5%, 82.6%, 93.9%, and 87.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Although no sonographic feature had both high sensitivity and specificity for detection of tuberculous lymphadenitis, the diagnostic accuracy of the “2 or more” category was higher than those of other categories.
Sonography for Diagnosis of Benign and Malignant Tumors of the Nose and Paranasal Sinuses
Authors: Liu Jun-jie , Gao Yong , Wu Ya-Fei , Zhu Shang-Yong
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the reliability of sonography for diagnosis of nose and paranasal sinus tumors.

Methods

Ninety‐six consecutive patients with tumors underwent sonography and computed tomography (CT) before surgical treatment. Tumor detectability and imaging findings were evaluated independently and then compared with pathologic findings.

Results

Of 96 tumors, 75 were detected by sonography, for a detectability rate of 78.1%; 93 tumors were detected by CT, for a detectability rate of 96.9%. By comparison, sonography showed a trend toward higher detectability of nasal vestibular tumors than CT (87.5% for sonography versus 50.0% for CT) and small lumps on the wing of the nose (78.8% for sonography versus 33.3% for CT). Among the sonographic features, boundary, shape, internal echo, calcification, bone invasion, vascular pattern, and cervical lymph node metastasis all had significantly positive correlations with malignancy (P < .05), but size did not (P = .324). In addition, the vascular resistive index for malignant tumors was significantly higher (mean ± SD, 0.66 ± 0.20) than the index for benign lesions (0.24 ± 0.30; P < .001). Moreover, the detection rate for grade 1–3 (small–large) blood flow in benign lesions was only 43.8%, whereas the rate for malignant tumors was 97.7% (P < .001).

Conclusions

The vascular pattern may be a promising predictive indicator for distinguishing benign and malignant tumors of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Consequently, sonography has high value for diagnosis of benign and malignant tumors of the nose and paranasal sinuses, especially for nasal vestibular tumors and small lumps on the wing of the nose.
A New Assessment Tool for Parkinson Disease
Authors: Sanzaro Enzo , Iemolo Francesco , Duro Giovanni , Malferrari Giovanni
Published: August 2014

Objectives

A sonographic method that provides for the measurement of a single frozen image and ignores the remaining portions of the midbrain has been used recently as a biological marker of Parkinson disease. We propose a new approach to evaluating the midbrain: obtaining the nigral lesion load, with which it is possible to acquire an estimate of the real damage to the substantia nigra.

Methods

We studied 60 patients with Parkinson disease and classified them according to the Hoehn and Yahr scale (Neurology 1967; 17:427–442). Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, ioflupane‐labeled single‐photon emission computed tomography, and technetium Tc 99m–labeled single‐photon emission computed tomography were performed. Assessment of the midbrain parenchyma was performed with transcranial sonography to quantify the extent of hyperechoic signals on 2 different scans (upper and lower substantia nigra).

Results

In 90% of patients (54), we found pathologic hyperechoic substantia nigra signals (>0.25 cm2). These data were similar to those described previously by other authors. However, the sum of the values obtained from each measurement (total of 4 per patient) showed that patients with severe disease had larger nigral lesion loads. In most cases, the study showed impairment of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system when the hyperechoic pattern was more pronounced.

Conclusions

Transcranial sonography is a useful tool for Parkinson disease workup. A single measurement of substantia nigra echogenicity may be insufficient for an optimal definition of the stage of the disease. A study of the entire midbrain may deliver more information than a single measurement.
In Vivo Measurement of Rotator Cuff Tendon Strain With Ultrasound Elastography
Authors: Hatta Taku , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Sano Hirotaka , Itoi Eiji
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To clarify the relationship between the strain ratio measured by ultrasound elastography and the mechanical properties of the tendon measured by a universal testing machine. We also attempted to determine the effect of the type and depth of soft tissue overlying the tendon on the elastographic measurement.

Methods

Twelve fresh porcine shoulders were prepared. Elastographic measurement was performed on the infraspinatus tendon by manually applying repetitive compressions from an ultrasound probe with an acoustic coupler consisting of an elastomer with definite elasticity as a reference material. The strain ratio, defined as tendon/reference strain, was obtained by 4 different approaches: with the probe placed on the skin, on the subcutaneous fat after removing the skin, on the muscle after removing the subcutaneous fat, and directly on the tendon. The strain ratios measured by these approaches were compared statistically. The relationship between the depth of the tendon measured on elastography and the strain ratio was also investigated. We also attempted to clarify the relationship between the strain ratio of the tendon and its elastic property. The tendon was mounted on a testing machine, and compressive force was applied. Tendon compliance was calculated as the reciprocal of the Young modulus in the range of 5% to 10% strain, which was compared to its strain ratio.

Results

The tendon/reference strain ratio significantly correlated with the tendon compliance (r = 0.73; P < .01). The strain ratio was not affected by differences in the measuring approaches (P = .4) or by the depth to the tendon level (P = .8).

Conclusions

Our results indicated that the strain ratio of the rotator cuff tendon could be measured with minimal influence by overlying soft tissues if its depth from the skin was less than 22 mm. We believe that ultrasound elastography would be a useful tool for assessment of tendon elasticity in clinical practice.
Risk Factors Associated With Failed Sonographically Guided Saline Hydrostatic Intussusception Reduction in Children
Authors: He Nianan , Zhang Shenglong , Ye Xianjun , Zhu Xiaoqian , Zhao Zhihong , Sui Xiufang
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the risk factors associated with failed sonographically guided saline hydrostatic intussusception reduction in children.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and sonograms of 288 cases of intussusception over a 3‐year period. Logistic regression was used for the analysis of the clinical data (sex, age, duration of symptoms, and presence or absence of emesis or bloody stool) and sonographic features (initial location and intussusception length, presence or absence of free peritoneal fluid, and trapped fluid in the intussusception).

Results

The sex, age, and duration of symptoms showed no significant impact on the hydrostatic reducibility. The success rate became significantly lower for the intussusception cases with the presence of bloody stool, free peritoneal fluid, and trapped fluid in the intussusception (P < .05). The success rate was also lower when the intussusceptions were located in the left side of the abdomen (P < .05). For the above risk factors, the odds ratios from multivariate logistic regression analysis were 174.68 for initial intussusception location in the descending colon/rectum, 36.06 for the presence of peritoneal fluid, 13.22 for trapped fluid in the intussusception, and 9.27 for the presence of bloody stool.

Conclusions

An initial intussusception location in the descending colon/rectum, the presence of peritoneal fluid, trapped fluid in the intussusception, and bloody stool are the most important risk factors for failure of sonographically guided saline hydrostatic intussusception reduction.
Relationship Between Isolated Mild Tricuspid Valve Regurgitation in Second‐Trimester Fetuses and Postnatal Congenital Cardiac Disorders
Authors: Zhou Jizi , Zhang Yun , Gui Yonghao , Chu Chen , Zhang Congcong , Zhou Qiongjie , Zhang Ying , Li Xiaotian , Yan Yingliu
Published: August 2014

Objectives

In most cases, the clinical importance of fetal isolated mild tricuspid valve regurgitation is not known. This study evaluated the relationship between fetal isolated mild tricuspid regurgitation in the general obstetric population and postnatal congenital cardiac disorders.

Methods

Detailed fetal echocardiography was done between 18 and 24 weeks' gestation to detect tricuspid regurgitation and to exclude complicated cardiac defects. Routine second‐trimester targeted organ scans were also performed to exclude extracardiac defects. Follow‐up was done until birth. After birth, the cardiac anatomy of the neonates was examined by echocardiography. The association between fetal isolated mild tricuspid regurgitation and postnatal congenital cardiac disorders was assessed by logistic regression analysis.

Results

No major cardiac disorders were found postnatally. Some minor disorders were found, including a patent foramen ovale, atrial septal defects, a patent ductus arteriosus, and small ventricular septal defects. Fetuses with isolated mild tricuspid regurgitation had a significantly higher likelihood of having ventricular septal defects (odds ratio, 5.80; P = .027) or a patent foramen ovale with atrial septal defects and a patent ductus arteriosus (odds ratio, 11.61; P = .007). There was no significant association between tricuspid regurgitation and an isolated patent foramen ovale or a patent foramen ovale with atrial septal defects in neonates.

Conclusions

Fetuses with isolated mild tricuspid regurgitation in the second trimester did not have a higher incidence of major cardiac disorders after birth. The presence of isolated mild tricuspid regurgitation may be an indication of minor postnatal congenital cardiac disorders.
Bedside Contrast‐Enhanced Sonography of Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Calabrese Emanuela , Catalano Orlando , Nunziata Antonio , D'Errico Arianna , Petrillo Antonella
Published: August 2014

The transfer of critically ill patients to the radiology department is, in itself, potentially dangerous, so radiologists are frequently asked to perform bedside sonographic studies in the intensive care unit, surgical or medical department, sterile area, and operating room. In these circumstances, injection of a contrast agent may give the radiologist relevant additional information, which is useful for diagnosis and for better therapeutic management of these critically ill patients. Contrast‐enhanced sonography may allow detection of findings not recognizable on baseline sonography or even color Doppler imaging. In this pictorial essay, we highlight the value of real‐time contrast‐enhanced sonography when performed at the bedside in critically ill patients.
Sonographic Appearance of Angioedema in Local Allergic Reactions to Insect Bites and Stings
Authors: Tay Ee Tein , Tsung James W.
Published: August 2014

Soft tissue infections and angioedema from insect bites and stings may be difficult to differentiate by inspection. We present sonographic findings of 4 cases of soft tissue swelling from insect bites and stings suggestive of angioedema. Sonographic features of soft tissue angioedema consist of thickened subcutaneous tissue layers with multiple linear, horizontal, striated, and hypoechoic lines following the tissue planes between soft tissue layers. In addition to the history and physical examination, sonographic findings may assist in differentiating between local allergic reactions and cellulitis in patients with insect bites and stings. Further study is warranted for clinical application.
Spreading depression in continuous electroencephalography of brain trauma
Authors: Hartings Jed A. , Wilson J. Adam , Hinzman Jason M. , Pollandt Sebastian , Dreier Jens P. , DiNapoli Vince , Ficker David M. , Shutter Lori A. , Andaluz Norberto
Published: August 2014

Objective

Cortical spreading depolarizations are a pathophysiological mechanism and candidate target for advanced monitoring in acute brain injury. Here we investigated manifestations of spreading depolarization in continuous electroencephalography (EEG) as a broadly applicable, noninvasive method for neuromonitoring.

Methods

Eighteen patients requiring surgical treatment of traumatic brain injury were monitored by invasive electrocorticography (ECoG; subdural electrodes) and noninvasive scalp EEG during intensive care. Spreading depolarizations were first identified in subdural recordings, and EEG was then examined visually and quantitatively to identify correlates.

Results

A total of 455 spreading depolarizations occurred during 65.9 days of simultaneous ECoG/EEG monitoring. For 179 of 455 events (39%), depolarizations caused temporally isolated, transient depressions of spontaneous EEG amplitudes to 57% (median) of baseline power. Depressions lasted 21 minutes (median) and occurred as suppressions of high‐amplitude delta activity present as a baseline pattern in the injured hemisphere. For 62 of 179 (35%) events, isolated depressions showed a clear spread of depression between EEG channels with delays of 17 minutes (median), sometimes spanning the entire hemisphere. A further 188 of 455 (41%) depolarizations were associated with continuous EEG depression that lasted hours to days due to ongoing depolarizations. Depolarizations were also evidenced in EEG as shifts in direct current potentials.

Interpretation

Leão's spreading depression can be observed in clinically standard, continuous scalp EEG, and underlying depolarizations can spread widely across the injured cerebral hemisphere. These results open the possibility of monitoring noninvasively a neuronal pathophysiological mechanism in a wide range of disorders including ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and brain trauma, and suggest a novel application for continuous EEG. Ann Neurol 2014;76:681–694
Asymmetric Catalysis Mediated by the Ligand Sphere of Octahedral Chiral‐at‐Metal Complexes
Authors: Gong Lei , Chen Liang‐An , Meggers Eric
Published: August 2014

Due to the relationship between structure and function in chemistry, access to novel chemical structures ultimately drives the discovery of novel chemical function. In this light, the formidable utility of the octahedral geometry of six‐coordinate metal complexes is founded in its stereochemical complexity combined with the ability to access chemical space that might be unavailable for purely organic compounds. In this Minireview we wish to draw attention to inert octahedral chiral‐at‐metal complexes as an emerging class of metal‐templated asymmetric “organocatalysts” which exploit the globular, rigid nature and stereochemical options of octahedral compounds and promise to provide new opportunities in the field of catalysis.
The Trapping of Phenyldiazenes in Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Fehler Stefanie K. , Pratsch Gerald , Heinrich Markus R.
Published: August 2014

The reactivity of phenyldiazenes was studied intensively in the late 1960s, but not much is known about their behavior under acidic conditions. Based on the formation of phenyldiazenes from phenylazocarboxylates, we herein describe how reactions of phenyldiazenes can be directed into ionic or radical pathways. Cycloaddition reactions with furans leading to pyridazinium salts represent the first examples for the direct trapping of phenyldiazenes with conservation of the NN moiety.
Brief Report: Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Is a Highly Genetic Condition Partly Mediated by Disc Degeneration
Authors: Battié Michele C. , Ortega‐Alonso Alfredo , Niemelainen Riikka , Gill Kevin , Levalahti Esko , Videman Tapio , Kaprio Jaakko
Published: August 2014

Objective

Lumbar spinal stenosis is one of the most commonly diagnosed spinal disorders in older adults. Although the pathophysiology of the clinical syndrome is not well understood, a narrow central canal or intervertebral foramen is an essential or defining feature. The aim of the present study was to estimate the magnitude of genetic versus environmental influences on central lumbar spinal stenosis and to investigate disc degeneration and stature or bone development as possible genetic pathways.

Methods

A classic twin study with multivariate analyses considering lumbar level and other covariates was conducted. The study sample comprised 598 male twins (147 monozygotic and 152 dizygotic pairs), 35–70 years of age, from the population‐based Finnish Twin Cohort. The primary phenotypes were central lumbar stenosis as assessed qualitatively on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and quantitatively measured dural sac cross‐sectional area. Additional phenotypes (to examine possible genetic pathways) included disc bulging and standing height, as an indicator of overall skeletal size or development.

Results

The heritability estimate (h2) for qualitatively assessed central lumbar spinal stenosis on MRI was 66.9% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 56.8, 74.5). The broad‐sense heritability estimate for dural sac cross‐sectional area was 81.2% (95% CI 74.5, 86.1), with a similar magnitude of genetic influences across lumbar levels (h2 = 72.4–75.6). The additive genetic correlation of quantitatively assessed stenosis and disc bulging was extremely high. There was no indication of shared genetic influences between stenosis and stature.

Conclusion

Central lumbar spinal stenosis and associated dural sac dimensions are highly genetic, and disc degeneration (bulging) appears to be one pathway through which genes influence spinal stenosis.
How discordant morphological and molecular evolution among microorganisms can revise our notions of biodiversity on Earth
Authors: Lahr Daniel J. G. , Laughinghouse Haywood Dail , Oliverio Angela M. , Gao Feng , Katz Laura A.
Published: August 2014

Microscopy has revealed tremendous diversity of bacterial and eukaryotic forms. Recent molecular analyses show discordance in estimates of biodiversity between morphological and molecular analyses. Moreover, phylogenetic analyses of the diversity of microbial forms reveal evidence of convergence at scales as deep as interdomain: morphologies shared between bacteria and eukaryotes. Here, we highlight examples of such discordance, focusing on exemplary lineages such as testate amoebae, ciliates, and cyanobacteria. These have long histories of morphological study, enabling deeper analyses on both the molecular and morphological sides. We discuss examples in two main categories: (i) morphologically identical (or highly similar) individuals that are genetically distinct and (ii) morphologically distinct individuals that are genetically the same. We argue that hypotheses about discordance can be tested using the concept of neutral morphologies, or more broadly neutral phenotypes, as a null hypothesis.
Cracking the ANP32 whips: Important functions, unequal requirement, and hints at disease implications
Authors: Reilly Patrick T. , Yu Yun , Hamiche Ali , Wang Lishun
Published: August 2014

The acidic (leucine‐rich) nuclear phosphoprotein 32 kDa (ANP32) family is composed of small, evolutionarily conserved proteins characterized by an N‐terminal leucine‐rich repeat domain and a C‐terminal low‐complexity acidic region. The mammalian family members (ANP32A, ANP32B, and ANP32E) are ascribed physiologically diverse functions including chromatin modification and remodelling, apoptotic caspase modulation, protein phosphatase inhibition, as well as regulation of intracellular transport. In addition to reviewing the widespread literature on the topic, we present a concept of the ANP32s as having a whip‐like structure. We also present hypotheses that ANP32C and other intronless sequences should not currently be considered bona fide family members, that their disparate necessity in development may be due to compensatory mechanisms, that their contrasting roles in cancer are likely context‐dependent, along with an underlying hypothesis that ANP32s represent an important node of physiological regulation by virtue of their diverse biochemical activities.
Repositioning the Substrate Activity Screening (SAS) Approach as a Fragment‐Based Method for Identification of Weak Binders
Authors: Gladysz Rafaela , Cleenewerck Matthias , Joossens Jurgen , Lambeir Anne‐Marie , Augustyns Koen , Van der Veken Pieter
Published: August 2014

Fragment‐based drug discovery (FBDD) has evolved into an established approach for “hit” identification. Typically, most applications of FBDD depend on specialised cost‐ and time‐intensive biophysical techniques. The substrate activity screening (SAS) approach has been proposed as a relatively cheap and straightforward alternative for identification of fragments for enzyme inhibitors. We have investigated SAS for the discovery of inhibitors of oncology target urokinase (uPA). Although our results support the key hypotheses of SAS, we also encountered a number of unreported limitations. In response, we propose an efficient modified methodology: “MSAS” (modified substrate activity screening). MSAS circumvents the limitations of SAS and broadens its scope by providing additional fragments and more coherent SAR data. As well as presenting and validating MSAS, this study expands existing SAR knowledge for the S1 pocket of uPA and reports new reversible and irreversible uPA inhibitor scaffolds.
Synthesis of Chiral α‐Benzyl‐β2‐hydroxy Carboxylic Acids through Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of α‐Oxymethylcinnamic Acids
Authors: Li Ze‐Yu , Song Song , Zhu Shou‐Fei , Guo Na , Wang Li‐Xin , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: August 2014

An asymmetric hydrogenation of α‐oxymethylcinnamic acids was developed by using chiral spiro phosphine‐oxazoline/iridium complexes as catalysts to prepare β2‐hydroxycarboxylic acids with high reactivity (TON up to 2000) and excellent enantioselectivity (up to 99.5% ee). By using this highly efficient asymmetric hydrogenation as a key step, a concise total synthesis of natural product homoisoflavone (S)‐(+)‐4 was accomplished.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐catalyzed Reactions of o‐Aminonitriles with Carbonyl Compounds Approach to 2,3‐Dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones
Authors: Chai Hongxin , Li Jiarong , Yang Liupan , Liu Mingxing , Yang Deli , Zhang Qi , Shi Daxin
Published: August 2014

A green, efficient and convenient N‐heterocyclic carbene‐catalyzed procedure for the synthesis of novel 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐one derivates via condensation of o‐aminonitriles and various carbonyl compounds was described.
KRAS mutation influences recurrence patterns in patients undergoing hepatic resection of colorectal metastases
Authors: Kemeny Nancy E. , Chou Joanne F. , Capanu Marinela , Gewirtz Alexandra N. , Cercek Andrea , Kingham T. Peter , Jarnagin William R. , Fong Yuman C. , DeMatteo Ronald P. , Allen Peter J. , Shia Jinru , Ang Celina , Vakiani Efsevia , D'Angelica Michael I.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

The validity of the KRAS mutation as a predictor of recurrence‐free survival (RFS) or overall survival (OS) is unclear. The current study investigated whether the presence of the KRAS mutation decreased RFS or OS in patients with colorectal cancer who underwent liver resection.

METHODS

Patients with resected colorectal liver metastases who received adjuvant hepatic arterial infusion plus systemic therapy and for whom KRAS data was available were evaluated. Correlation between KRAS and clinical factors was done using the Fisher exact test. Kaplan‐Meier methods were used to estimate the median RFS and OS.

RESULTS

A total of 169 patients were evaluated, 118 of whom had KRAS wild‐type (WT) and 51 had KRAS mutated (MUT) tumors. The 3‐year RFS rate was 46% for patients with KRAS WT (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 35%‐56%) and 30% (95% CI, 16%‐44%) for patients with KRAS MUT (P =.005). The 3‐year OS rate was 95% (95% CI, 87%‐98%) and 81% (95% CI, 62%‐95%), respectively, for patients with KRAS WT and KRAS MUT (P =.07). On multivariate analysis, KRAS remained a significant predictor of RFS (hazard ratio, 1.9). The 3‐year cumulative recurrence rate by site of metastases was as follows: 2% versus 13.4% for bone (P≤.01), 2% versus 14.5% for brain (P =.05), 33.2% versus 58% for lung (P≤.01), and 30% versus 47% for liver (P =.10) in patients with KRAS WT versus KRAS MUT.

CONCLUSIONS

In the current study, among patients with resected colorectal liver metastases who were treated with adjuvant hepatic arterial infusion plus systemic therapy, patients with KRAS MUT were found to have a significantly worse 3‐year RFS (30%) compared with KRAS WT (46%) p=.005. The cumulative incidence of bone, brain, and lung metastases was significantly higher for patients with KRAS MUT compared with those with KRAS WT. Cancer 2014;120:3965–3971. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Cancer survivors' uptake and adherence in diet and exercise intervention trials: An integrative data analysis
Authors: Adams Rebecca N. , Mosher Catherine E. , Blair Cindy K. , Snyder Denise C. , Sloane Richard , Demark‐Wahnefried Wendy
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

The health benefits of diet and exercise interventions for cancer survivors are well documented. However, little is known regarding demographic and medical predictors of survivors' willingness to participate in diet and exercise intervention trials, study enrollment, intervention adherence, and study completion. To assist in interpreting the generalizability of trial findings and to improve the design of future trials, this study examined predictors of these process measures.

METHODS

An integrative data analysis was performed on data from 3 of the largest home‐based diet and exercise intervention trials for cancer survivors (n = 23,841). Demographic and medical factors (ie, sex, race, age, time since diagnosis, and cancer type) were examined as predictors of willingness to participate, study enrollment, intervention adherence, and study completion in the pooled sample. A 99% confidence interval was used to determine statistical significance.

RESULTS

Across trials, 11.1% of contacted survivors were willing to participate, and 5.7% were eligible and enrolled. Among enrollees, 53.4% demonstrated ≥75% adherence to the intervention, and 91.1% completed the study. Race (Caucasian vs others), age, time since diagnosis, and cancer type predicted survivors' willingness to participate (P < .01). All examined predictors were associated with the likelihood of study enrollment (P < .01). No significant predictors of intervention adherence or study completion were found among study enrollees (P ≥ .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Cancer survivors' demographic and medical characteristics predicted their interest and participation in diet and exercise intervention trials. These findings have implications for the generalizability of results and can help to guide procedures used in future trials to enhance patient representation. Cancer 2015;121:77–83. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Trends in central nervous system tumor incidence relative to other common cancers in adults, adolescents, and children in the United States, 2000 to 2010
Authors: Gittleman Haley R. , Ostrom Quinn T. , Rouse Chaturia D. , Dowling Jacqueline A. , de Blank Peter M. , Kruchko Carol A. , Elder J. Bradley , Rosenfeld Steven S. , Selman Warren R. , Sloan Andrew E. , Barnholtz‐Sloan Jill S.
Published: August 2014

BACKGROUND

Time trends in cancer incidence rates (IR) are important to measure the changing burden of cancer on a population over time. The overall IR of cancer in the United States is declining. Although central nervous system tumors (CNST) are rare, they contribute disproportionately to mortality and morbidity. In this analysis, the authors examined trends in the incidence of the most common cancers and CNST between 2000 and 2010.

METHODS

The current analysis used data from the United States Cancer Statistics publication and the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States. Age‐adjusted IR per 100,000 population with 95% confidence intervals and the annual percent change (APC) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for selected common cancers and CNST overall and by age, sex, race/ethnicity, selected histologies, and malignancy status.

RESULTS

In adults, there were significant decreases in colon (2000‐2010: APC, −3.1), breast (2000‐2010: APC, −0.8), lung (2000‐2010: APC, −1.1), and prostate (2000‐2010: APC, −2.4) cancer as well as malignant CNST (2008‐2010: APC, −3.1), but a significant increase was noted in nonmalignant CNST (2004‐2010: APC, 2.7). In adolescents, there were significant increases in malignant CNST (2000‐2008: APC, 1.0) and nonmalignant CNST (2004‐2010: APC, 3.9). In children, there were significant increases in acute lymphocytic leukemia (2000‐2010: APC, 1.0), non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (2000‐2010: APC, 0.6), and malignant CNST (2000‐2010: APC, 0.6).

CONCLUSIONS

Surveillance of IR trends is an important way to measure the changing public health and economic burden of cancer. In the current study, there were significant decreases noted in the incidence of adult cancer, whereas adolescent and childhood cancer IR were either stable or increasing. Cancer 2015;121:102–112. © 2014 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society.
Selective Extraction of Metal Ions from Aqueous Phase to Ionic Liquids: A Novel Thermodynamic Approach to Separations
Authors: Janssen Camiel H. C. , Sánchez Antonio , Kobrak Mark N.
Published: August 2014

The selective extraction of metals from aqueous mixtures has generally relied on the use of selective ionophores. We present an alternative strategy that exploits a recently developed approach to extraction into an ionic liquid phase, and show that a high degree of control over selectivity can be obtained by tuning the relative concentrations of extraction agents. A thermodynamic model for the approach is presented, and an experimental separation of strontium and potassium ions is performed. It is shown that tuning the concentrations of the species involved can shift the ratio of potassium to strontium in the ionic liquid phase from 4:1 to 3:4. This extraction is performed under mild conditions with relatively common reagents. The result is a proof‐of‐concept for a novel separations scheme that could have great importance in a wide range of technological applications.
An improved protocol for flow cytometry analysis of phytoplankton cultures and natural samples
Authors: Marie Dominique , Rigaut‐Jalabert Fabienne , Vaulot Daniel
Published: August 2014

Preservation of cells, choice of fixative, storage, and thawing conditions are recurrent issues for the analysis of phytoplankton by flow cytometry. We examined the effects of addition of the surfactant Pluronic F68 to glutaraldehyde‐fixed photosynthetic organisms in cultures and natural samples. In particular, we examined cell losses and modifications of side scatter (a proxy of cell size) and fluorescence of natural pigments. We found that different marine phytoplankton species react differently to the action of Pluronic F68. In particular, photosynthetic prokaryotes are less sensitive than eukaryotes. Observed cell losses may result from cell lysis or from cell adhesion to the walls of plastic tubes that are commonly used for flow cytometry analysis. The addition of the surfactant, Pluronic F68, has a positive effect on cells for long‐term storage. We recommend to modify current protocols for preservation of natural marine planktonic samples, by fixing them with glutaraldehyde 0.25% (final concentration) and adding Pluronic F68 at a final concentration of 0.01% in the samples before preservation. Pluronic F68 also appears effective for preserving samples without fixation for subsequent sorting, e.g. for molecular biology analyses. © 2014 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Nuclear factor one transcription factors: Divergent functions in developmental versus adult stem cell populations
Authors: Harris Lachlan , Genovesi Laura A. , Gronostajski Richard M. , Wainwright Brandon J. , Piper Michael
Published: August 2014

Nuclear factor one (NFI) transcription factors are a group of site‐specific DNA‐binding proteins that are emerging as critical regulators of stem cell biology. During development NFIs promote the production of differentiated progeny at the expense of stem cell fate, with Nfi null mice exhibiting defects such as severely delayed brain and lung maturation, skeletomuscular defects and renal abnormalities, phenotypes that are often consistent with patients with congenital Nfi mutations. Intriguingly, recent research suggests that in adult tissues NFI factors play a qualitatively different role than during development, with NFIs serving to promote the survival and maintenance of slow‐cycling adult stem cell populations rather than their differentiation. Here we review the role of NFI factors in development, largely focusing on their role as promoters of stem cell differentiation, and attempt to reconcile this with the emerging role of NFIs in adult stem cell niches. Developmental Dynamics 244:227–238, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrochemical Implication of a Hydrogen‐Bonded Imidazole on a Redox‐Active‐Bound Phenolate Group
Authors: El Ghachtouli Sanae , Lassalle‐Kaiser Benedikt , Guillot Régis , Aukauloo Ally
Published: August 2014

We report the synthesis of a pentadentate N4O ligand with an imidazole group in the ortho position of the phenol group. The syntheses and crystallographic structures are reported for zinc(II) complexes by using the previously reported tert‐butyl‐substituted ligand and the imidazole‐substituted ligand in two different protonation states. We describe the influence of the ortho substituent (tert‐butyl, imidazole, and imidazolium) on the electrochemical behavior of the zinc(II) complexes. The substitution of the tert‐butyl group in the ortho position by an imidazole group shifts the oxidation potential of the phenolate by more than 300 mV. The o‐tert‐butyl‐substituted ligand allows the formation of a stable radical phenoxylzinc(II) complex upon electrochemical oxidation, but it is unstable in the case of the imidazole‐substituted complex. The imidazole‐substituted ligand can be reversibly protonated without altering the electrochemical properties of the phenolate group.
A Nickel‐Containing Model System of Acireductone Dioxygenases that Utilizes a C(1)‐H Acireductone Substrate
Authors: Allpress Caleb J. , Berreau Lisa M.
Published: August 2014

A mononuclear NiII complex bearing the monoanion of 1‐acetoxy‐3‐phenylpropane‐2,3‐dione (4) as a ligand has been prepared {[(6‐Ph2TPA)Ni{PhC(O)C(O)CHOC(O)CH3)]ClO4, 5; 6‐Ph2TPA = N,N‐bis[(6‐phenyl‐2‐pyridyl)methyl]‐N‐(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine}. This complex was characterized by 1H NMR, UV/Vis and IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis. Exposure of solutions of 5 to O2 did not result in any reaction over the course of hours. Deprotection of 5 by the addition of NaOCH3 in methanol generated a NiII species (6) that contains a coordinated dianionic C(1)‐H acireductone. Exposure of 6 to O2 led to regioselective oxidative cleavage reactivity akin to that found for the NiII‐containing acireductone dioxygenase enzyme. The strategy outlined herein is the first synthetic approach that enables examination of the oxidative reactivity of a synthetic NiII species containing a dianionic C(1)‐H acireductone ligand.
Ethnic identity and self‐esteem among Asian and European Americans: When a minority is the majority and the majority is a minority
Authors: Xu Yiyuan , Farver Jo Ann M. , Pauker Kristin
Published: August 2014

Three studies were conducted to examine the impact of being a numeric majority or minority in Hawai'i and U.S. mainland on the ethnic identity and self‐esteem of Asian and European Americans. Results of Study 1 (N = 214, M age = 19.85 years) and Study 2 (N = 215, M age = 18.20 years) showed that Asian Americans who grew up on the U.S. mainland, where they are a numeric minority, reported higher ethnic identity than did Asian Americans who grew up in Hawai'i, where they are a numeric majority. In addition, ethnic identity was significantly associated with self‐esteem for Asian Americans from the U.S. mainland and European Americans from Hawai'i (numeric minority), but not for Asian Americans from Hawai'i and European Americans from the U.S. mainland (numeric majority). Study 3 (N = 88, M age = 18.12) examined ethnic identity and self‐esteem among Asian and European Americans who had moved from the U.S. mainland to attend a university in Hawai'i over a 1 year time period. The results showed significant relations between ethnic identity and self‐esteem for Asian Americans when they initially moved to Hawai'i, but this relation decreased after they had lived in Hawai'i for 1 year. The findings highlight contextual variations in ethnic identity and self‐esteem for members of both minority and majority groups in the U.S. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide to carboxylic acid derivatives
Authors: Liu An‐Hua , Yu Bing , He Liang‐Nian
Published: August 2014

Chemical utilization of the greenhouse gas, i.e., CO2 as an abundant, easily available, and renewable carbon feedstock for producing chemicals, materials, and fuels is attractive as an integral part of the carbon cycle. Based on the principle of CO2 activation and elaborately designed catalysts, various transformation of CO2 can be realized under mild conditions. In particular, establishing practical methodologies for catalytic carboxylation by CO2 as carboxylative reagent would be a fascinating dream for synthetic chemists. This review covers the updated advances in the catalytic conversion of CO2 into carboxylic acid derivatives from alkenes, alkynes, aromatic halides, aromatic C(sp2)‐H bonds, etc.
Local hypothyroidism favors the progression of preneoplastic lesions to hepatocellular carcinoma in rats
Authors: Frau Carla , Loi Roberto , Petrelli Annalisa , Perra Andrea , Menegon Silvia , Kowalik Marta Anna , Pinna Silvia , Leoni Vera Piera , Fornari Francesca , Gramantieri Laura , Ledda‐Columbano Giovanna Maria , Giordano Silvia , Columbano Amedeo
Published: August 2014

Thyroid hormone receptors (TRs) are ligand‐dependent transcription factors that mediate most of the effects elicited by the thyroid hormone, 3,5,3′‐L‐triiodothyronine (T3). TRs have been implicated in tumorigenesis, although it is unclear whether they act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors, and at which stage of tumorigenesis their dysregulation occurs. Using the resistant‐hepatocyte rat model (R‐H model), we found down‐regulation of TRβ1 and TRα1 and their target genes in early preneoplastic lesions and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCCs), suggesting that a hypothyroid status favors the onset and progression of preneoplastic lesions to HCC. Notably, TRβ1 and, to a lesser extent, TRα1 down‐regulation was observed only in preneoplastic lesions positive for the progenitor cell marker, cytokeratin‐19 (Krt‐19) and characterized by a higher proliferative activity, compared to the Krt‐19 negative ones. TRβ1 down‐regulation was observed also in the vast majority of the analyzed human HCCs, compared to the matched peritumorous liver or to normal liver. Hyperthyroidism induced by T3 treatment caused up‐regulation of TRβ1 and of its target genes in Krt‐19+ preneoplastic rat lesions and was associated with nodule regression. In HCC, TRβ1 down‐regulation was not the result of hypermethylation of its promoter, but was associated with an increased expression of TRβ1‐targeting microRNAs ([miR]‐27a, ‐181a, and ‐204). An inverse correlation between TRβ1 and miR‐181a was also found in human cirrhotic peritumoral tissue, compared to normal liver. Conclusion: Down‐regulation of TRs, especially TRβ1, is an early and relevant event in liver cancer development and is species and etiology independent. The results also suggest that a hypothyroid status of preneoplastic lesions may contribute to their progression to HCC and that the reversion of this condition may represent a possible therapeutic goal to interfere with the development of this tumor. (Hepatology 2015;61:249–259)
H.M.'s contributions to neuroscience: A review and autopsy studies
Authors: Augustinack Jean C. , van der Kouwe André J.W. , Salat David H. , Benner Thomas , Stevens Allison A. , Annese Jacopo , Fischl Bruce , Frosch Matthew P. , Corkin Suzanne
Published: August 2014

H.M., Henry Molaison, was one of the world's most famous amnesic patients. His amnesia was caused by an experimental brain operation, bilateral medial temporal lobe resection, carried out in 1953 to relieve intractable epilepsy. He died on December 2, 2008, and that night we conducted a wide variety of in situ MRI scans in a 3 T scanner at the Massachusetts General Hospital (Mass General) Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging. For the in situ experiments, we acquired a full set of standard clinical scans, 1 mm isotropic anatomical scans, and multiple averages of 440 μm isotropic anatomical scans. The next morning, H.M.'s body was transported to the Mass General Morgue for autopsy. The photographs taken at that time provided the first documentation of H.M.'s lesions in his physical brain. After tissue fixation, we obtained ex vivo structural data at ultra‐high resolution using 3 T and 7 T magnets. For the ex vivo acquisitions, the highest resolution images were 210 μm isotropic. Based on the MRI data, the anatomical areas removed during H.M.'s experimental operation were the medial temporopolar cortex, piriform cortex, virtually all of the entorhinal cortex, most of the perirhinal cortex and subiculum, the amygdala (except parts of the dorsal‐most nuclei—central and medial), anterior half of the hippocampus, and the dentate gyrus (posterior head and body). The posterior parahippocampal gyrus and medial temporal stem were partially damaged. Spared medial temporal lobe tissue included the dorsal‐most amygdala, the hippocampal‐amygdalo‐transition‐area, ∼2 cm of the tail of the hippocampus, a small part of perirhinal cortex, a small portion of medial hippocampal tissue, and ∼2 cm of posterior parahippocampal gyrus. H.M.'s impact on the field of memory has been remarkable, and his contributions to neuroscience continue with a unique dataset that includes in vivo, in situ, and ex vivo high‐resolution MRI. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.