bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of annual percentage change in breast cancer incidence rate between Taiwan and the United States—A smoothed Lexis diagram approach
Authors: Chien Li‐Hsin , Tseng Tzu‐Jui , Chen Chung‐Hsing , Jiang Hsin‐Fang , Tsai Fang‐Yu , Liu Tsang‐Wu , Hsiung Chao A. , Chang I‐Shou
Published: May 2017

Recent studies compared the age effects and birth cohort effects on female invasive breast cancer (FIBC) incidence in Asian populations with those in the US white population. They were based on age–period–cohort model extrapolation and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) in the age‐standardized incidence rates (ASR). It is of interest to examine these results based on cohort‐specific annual percentage change in rate (APCR) by age and without age–period–cohort model extrapolation. FIBC data (1991–2010) were obtained from the Taiwan Cancer Registry and the U.S. SEER 9 registries. APCR based on smoothed Lexis diagrams were constructed to study the age, period, and cohort effects on FIBC incidence. The patterns of age‐specific rates by birth cohort are similar between Taiwan and the US. Given any age‐at‐diagnosis group, cohort‐specific rates increased overtime in Taiwan but not in the US; cohort‐specific APCR by age decreased with birth year in both Taiwan and the US but was always positive and large in Taiwan. Given a diagnosis year, APCR decreased as birth year increased in Taiwan but not in the US. In Taiwan, the proportion of APCR attributable to cohort effect was substantial and that due to case ascertainment was becoming smaller. Although our study shows that incidence rates of FIBC have increased rapidly in Taiwan, thereby confirming previous results, the rate of increase over time is slowing. Continued monitoring of APCR and further investigation of the cause of the APCR decrease in Taiwan are warranted.
Metal‐Organic‐Frameworks as Contrast Agents in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammad A.
Published: May 2017

Metal‐organic‐frameworks (MOFs) are used either as drug carrying substrate for drug delivery or contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MOFs are also playing a major role in harnessing dual or multiple modalities in therapeutic and diagnostic applications as a combined platform for both drug delivery and MRI contrast agents either as a T1‐ or T2‐ or combined T1‐ and T2‐contrast agents for MRI image enhancement. This article presents an overview of the recent development of the modified and unmodified MOFs being used as MRI contrast agents and describes their biological evaluations, e.g., biocompatibility, bio‐toxicity, in vitro and in vivo MRI cell imaging, and MRI image enhancement in animals. It illustrates vast diversities and complexities in developing these materials through complex designs and syntheses, types of MOFs being used, examinations of these MOFs‐based materials for possible MRI contrast agents, types of MRI contrast agents, their functionalities and mechanism, in situ and in vivo MRI in cells and animals, and ranges of biological evaluations on the MOFs‐based MRI contrast agents. Perspectives, insights, critical reflections, and future outlook are also presented.
Complete response to temozolomide in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Rao Archana , Ramani Nisha , Stoppacher Robert , Coyle Thomas
Published: May 2017

Key Clinical Message

We report a case of incidentally diagnosed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in a patient with glioblastoma, which responded completely following standard treatment of the glioblastoma with temozolomide and cranial irradiation. The patient remained without an evidence of CLL until his death from recurrent glioblastoma. Further study of temozolomide for the treatment of CLL is indicated.
Suzuki Cross‐Coupling for Post‐Complexation Derivatization of Non‐Racemic Bis‐Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complexes
Authors: Mietke Thomas , Cruchter Thomas , Winterling Erik , Tripp Matthias , Harms Klaus , Meggers Eric
Published: May 2017

A straightforward method for post‐complexation derivatizations of diastereo‐ and enantiomerically pure bis‐cyclometalated benzoxazole and benzothiazole iridium(III) complexes is reported. Triflate‐ and bromine‐functionalized iridium(III) complex dimers, represented as [Ir(μ‐Cl)(C^N)2]2, were converted to the corresponding diastereomeric complexes, represented as Ir(C^N)2(N^O), using readily available chiral salicyloxazolines and salicylthiazolines as ancillary ligands, which are represented as N^O. The Ir(C^N)2(N^O) complexes, formed as mixtures of diastereomers, were then resolved by flash chromatography and the diastereomerically pure complexes Ir(C^N)2(N^O) subjected to Suzuki cross‐couplings. The post‐complexation cross‐couplings proceed without affecting the metal‐located stereocenter and hence provide post‐complexation derivatized non‐racemic iridium(III) complexes, which were not easily accessible with previous methods. This strategy expands the toolbox to access functionalized non‐racemic iridium(III) complexes for diverse applications in the life sciences, materials sciences, and catalysis.
Substrate properties of zebrafish Rtn4b/Nogo and axon regeneration in the zebrafish optic nerve
Authors: Bodrikov Vsevolod , Welte Cornelia , Wiechers Marianne , Weschenfelder Markus , Kaur Gurjot , Shypitsyna Aleksandra , Pinzon‐Olejua Alejandro , Bastmeyer Martin , Stuermer Claudia A. O.
Published: May 2017

This study explored why lesioned retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons regenerate successfully in the zebrafish optic nerve despite the presence of Rtn4b, the homologue of the rat neurite growth inhibitor RTN4‐A/Nogo‐A. Rat Nogo‐A and zebrafish Rtn4b possess characteristic motifs (M1‐4) in the Nogo‐A‐specific region, which contains delta20, the most inhibitory region of rat Nogo‐A. To determine whether zebrafish M1‐4 is inhibitory as rat M1‐4 and Nogo‐A delta20, proteins were recombinantly expressed and used as substrates for zebrafish single cell RGCs, mouse hippocampal neurons and goldfish, zebrafish and chick retinal explants. When offered as homogenous substrates, neurites of hippocampal neurons and of zebrafish single cell RGCs were inhibited by zebrafish M1‐4, rat M1‐4, and Nogo‐A delta20. Neurite length increased when zebrafish single cell RGCs were treated with receptor‐type‐specific antagonists and, respectively, with morpholinos (MO) against S1PR2 and S1PR5a—which represent candidate zebrafish Nogo‐A receptors. In a stripe assay, however, where M1‐4 lanes alternate with polylysine‐(Plys)‐only lanes, RGC axons from goldfish, zebrafish, and chick retinal explants avoided rat M1‐4 but freely crossed zebrafish M1‐4 lanes—suggesting that zebrafish M1‐4 is growth permissive and less inhibitory than rat M1‐4. Moreover, immunostainings and dot blots of optic nerve and myelin showed that expression of Rtn4b is very low in tissue and myelin at 3–5 days after lesion when axons regenerate. Thus, Rtn4b seems to represent no major obstacle for axon regeneration in vivo because it is less inhibitory for RGC axons from retina explants, and because of its low abundance.
Significance of flower pot cells in effusion cytology
Authors: Bharani Vani , Singh Priya , Gupta Nalini , Srinivasan Radhika
Published: May 2017

Cells with long polar hair‐like processes referred to as ‘flower pot cells’ are a rare but beautiful morphological feature observed in effusions of diverse etiologies. This report describes these cells in effusions seen in ovarian borderline serous tumours, malignant mesothelioma and in reactive mesothelial cells with or without accompanying malignant cells. These processes were better appreciated in air‐dried May‐Grunwald‐Giemsa stained smears.
Suppressor of fused controls cerebellar neuronal differentiation in a manner modulated by GLI3 repressor and Fgf15
Authors: Kim Jinny J. , Jiwani Tayyaba , Erwood Steven , Loree Jillian , Rosenblum Norman D.
Published: May 2017

Background: Deficiency of Suppressor of Fused (SuFu), an intracellular mediator of Hedgehog signaling, in the murine mid–hindbrain disrupts cerebellar morphogenesis and cell differentiation in a manner that is rescued by constitutive expression of GLI3 transcriptional repressor (GLI3R). Here, we determined SuFu functions in cerebellar radial precursors following the stage of mid–hindbrain specification using a Blbp‐Cre transgene. Results: SuFu‐deficient cerebella were severely dysplastic, and characterized by laminar disorganization, and delayed differentiation of ventricular zone‐derived precursors. In vitro analysis of cerebellar precursors isolated from control and mutant mice demonstrated an increased proportion of radial glial precursors vs. Tuj1‐positive neurons in mutant cultures. Abnormal cell differentiation in SuFu‐deficient precursors was rescued by a constitutively expressed GLI3R knock‐in allele, albeit with variable penetrance. Using RNA expression analysis in control and SuFu‐deficient cerebellar anlage, we identified up‐regulation of Fgf15 in mutant tissue. Strikingly, exogenous hFGF19, a mFGF15 ortholog, inhibited neuronal differentiation in cultures of wild‐type cerebellar precursors. Moreover, siRNA‐mediated knockdown of Fgf15 in SuFu‐deficient cerebellar precursors rescued their delayed differentiation to neurons. Conclusions: Together, our results show that SuFu promotes cerebellar radial precursor differentiation to neurons. SuFu function is mediated in part by GLI3R and down‐regulation of Fgf15 expression. Developmental Dynamics 247:156–169, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Wnt is necessary for mesenchymal to epithelial transition in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Schwab Renate H.M. , Amin Nancy , Flanagan Dustin J. , Johanson Timothy M. , Phesse Toby J. , Vincan Elizabeth
Published: May 2017

Background: Metastasis underlies most colorectal cancer mortality. Cancer cells spread through the body as single cells or small clusters of cells that have an invasive, mesenchymal, nonproliferative phenotype. At the secondary site, they revert to a proliferative “tumor constructing” epithelial phenotype to rebuild a tumor. We previously developed a unique in vitro three‐dimensional model, called LIM1863‐Mph, which faithfully recapitulates these reversible transitions that underpin colorectal cancer metastasis. Wnt signaling plays a key role in these transitions and is initiated by the coupling of extracellular Wnt to Frizzled (FZD). Using the LIM1863‐Mph model system we demonstrated that the Wnt receptor FZD7 is necessary for mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET). Here we investigate the role of Wnt in MET. Results: Wnt secretion is dependent on palmitoylation by Porcupine (PORC). A PORC inhibitor (IWP2) that prevents Wnt secretion, blocked the epithelial transition of mesenchymal LIM1863‐Mph cells. Wnt gene array analysis identified several Wnts that are upregulated in epithelial compared with mesenchymal LIM1863‐Mph cells, suggesting these ligands in MET. Wnt2B was the most abundant differentially expressed Wnt gene. Indeed, recombinant Wnt2B could overcome the IWP2‐mediated block in epithelial transition of mesenchymal LIM1863‐Mph cells. Conclusions: Wnt2B co‐operates with Frizzled7 to mediate MET in colorectal cancer. Developmental Dynamics 247:521–530, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Competitive success of southern populations of Betula pendula and Sorbus aucuparia under simulated southern climate experiment in the subarctic
Authors: Taulavuori Kari , Taulavuori Erja , Saravesi Karita , Jylänki Tanja , Kainulainen Aila , Pajala Jonna , Markkola Annamari , Suominen Otso , Saikkonen Kari
Published: May 2017

Global warming has been commonly accepted to facilitate species’ range shifts across latitudes. Cross‐latitudinal transplantations support this; many tree species can well adapt to new geographical areas. However, these studies fail to capture species’ adaptations to new light environment because the experiments were not designed to explicitly separate species’ responses to light and temperature. Here we tested reaction norms of tree seedlings in reciprocal transplantations 1,000 km apart from each other at two latitudes (60°N and 69°N). In contrast to past studies, we exposed our experimental plants to same temperature in both sites (temperature of 60°N growing site is recorded to adjust temperature of 69°N site in real time via Internet connection) while light environment (photoperiod, light quality) remained ambient. Shoot elongation and autumn coloration were studied in seedlings of two deciduous trees (Betula pendula and Sorbus aucuparia), which were expected to respond differently to day length. Sorbus as a member of Rosaceae family was assumed to be indifferent to photoperiod, while Betula responds strongly to day length. We hypothesized that (1) southern and northern populations of both species perform differently; (2) southern populations perform better in both sites; (3) autumn phenology of southern populations may delay in the northern site; (4) and Sorbus aucuparia is less dependent on light environment. According to the hypotheses, shoot elongation of northern population was inherently low in both species. An evolutionary consequence of this may be a competitive success of southern populations under warming climate. Southern population of B. pendula was delayed in autumn coloration, but not in growth cessation. Sorbus aucuparia was less responsive to light environment. The results suggest that light provides selection pressure in range shifts, but the response is species dependent.
Genetic differences between wild and hatchery‐bred brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) in single nucleotide polymorphisms linked to selective traits
Authors: Linløkken Arne N. , Haugen Thrond O. , Kent Matthew P. , Lien Sigbjørn
Published: May 2017

To study effects from natural selection acting on brown trout in a natural stream habitat compared with a hatchery environment, 3,781 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were analyzed in three closely related groups of brown trout (Salmo trutta L.). Autumn (W/0+, n = 48) and consecutive spring (W/1+, n = 47) samples of brown trout individuals belonging to the same cohort and stream were retrieved using electrofishing. A third group (H/1+, n = 48) comprised hatchery‐reared individuals, bred from a mixture of wild parents of the strain of the two former groups and from a neighboring stream. Pairwise analysis of FST outliers and analysis under a hierarchical model by means of ARLEQUIN software detected 421 (10.8%) candidates of selection, before multitest correction. BAYESCAN software detected 10 candidate loci, all of which were included among the ARLEQUIN candidate loci. Body length was significantly different across genotypes at 10 candidate loci in the W/0+, at 34 candidate loci in the W/1+ and at 21 candidate loci in the H/1+ group. The W/1+ sample was tested for genotype‐specific body length at all loci, and significant differences were found in 10.6% of all loci, and of these, 14.2% had higher frequency of the largest genotype in the W/1+ sample than in W/0+. The corresponding proportion among the candidate loci of W/1+ was 22.7% with genotype‐specific body length, and 88.2% of these had increased frequency of the largest genotype from W/0+ to W/1+, indicating a linkage between these loci and traits affecting growth and survival under this stream's environmental conditions. Bayesian structuring of all loci, and of the noncandidate loci suggested two (K = 2), alternatively four clusters (K = 4). This differed from the candidate SNPs, which suggested only two clusters. In both cases, the hatchery fish dominated one cluster, and body length of W/1+ fish was positively correlated with membership of one cluster both from the K = 2 and the K = 4 structure. Our analysis demonstrates profound genetic differentiation that can be linked to differential selection on a fitness‐related trait (individual growth) in brown trout living under natural vs. hatchery conditions. Candidate SNP loci linked to genes affecting individual growth were identified and provide important inputs into future mapping of the genetic basis of brown trout body size selection.
Opposing effects of mortality factors on progeny operational sex ratio may thwart adaptive manipulation of primary sex ratio
Authors: Moreau Gaétan , Eveleigh Eldon S. , Lucarotti Christopher J. , Morin Benoit , Quiring Dan T.
Published: May 2017

Despite extensive research on mechanisms generating biases in sex ratios, the capacity of natural enemies to shift or further skew operational sex ratios following sex allocation and parental care remains largely unstudied in natural populations. Male cocoons of the sawfly Neodiprion abietis (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae) are consistently smaller than those of females, with very little overlap, and thus, we were able to use cocoon size to sex cocoons. We studied three consecutive cohorts of N. abietis in six forest stands to detect cocoon volume‐associated biases in the attack of predators, pathogens, and parasitoids and examine how the combined effect of natural enemies shapes the realized operational sex ratio. Neodiprion abietis mortality during the cocoon stage was sex‐biased, being 1.6 times greater for males than females. Greater net mortality in males occurred because male‐biased mortality caused by a pteromalid parasitic wasp and a baculovirus was greater and more skewed than female‐biased mortality caused by ichneumonid parasitic wasps. Variation in the susceptibility of each sex to each family of parasitoids was associated with differences in size and life histories of male and female hosts. A simulation based on the data indicated that shifts in the nature of differential mortality have different effects on the sex ratio and fitness of survivors. Because previous work has indicated that reduced host plant foliage quality induces female‐biased mortality in this species, bottom‐up and top‐down factors acting on populations can affect operational sex ratios in similar or opposite ways. Shifts in ecological conditions therefore have the potential to alter progeny fitness and produce extreme sex ratio skews, even in the absence of unbalanced sex allocation. This would limit the capacity of females to anticipate the operational sex ratio and reliably predict the reproductive success of each gender at sex allocation.
Benefit of cardiopoietic mesenchymal stem cell therapy on left ventricular remodelling: results from the Congestive Heart Failure Cardiopoietic Regenerative Therapy (CHART‐1) study
Authors: Teerlink John R. , Metra Marco , Filippatos Gerasimos S. , Davison Beth A. , Bartunek Jozef , Terzic Andre , Gersh Bernard J. , Povsic Thomas J. , Henry Timothy D. , Alexandre Bertrand , Homsy Christian , Edwards Christopher , Seron Aymeric , Wijns William , Cotter Gad ,   for the CHART Investigators
Published: May 2017

Aims

Left ventricular (LV) reverse remodelling is an important marker of improved outcomes in patients with advanced heart failure (HF). We examined the impact of the intramyocardial administration of bone‐marrow‐derived, lineage‐directed, autologous cardiopoietic mesenchymal stem cells (C3BS‐CQR‐1) on LV remodelling in patients with advanced HF enrolled in the CHART‐1 study.

Methods and results

Patients (n=351) with symptomatic advanced HF secondary to ischaemic heart disease, and reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF <35%) were randomized to receive C3BS‐CQR‐1 or a sham procedure. In a post hoc analysis we examined the effect of C3BS‐CQR‐1 on LV reverse remodelling within 1 year of the procedure and the influence of C3BS‐CQR‐1 dosing in the 271 patients treated as randomized. Delivery of C3BS‐CQR‐1 was associated with a progressive decrease in both LV end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV) and end‐systolic volume (LVESV) within 52 weeks after treatment. At 1 year, the LVEDV and LVESV of treated patients decreased by 17.0 mL and 12.8 mL greater than controls (P=0.006 and P=0.017, respectively). The effect on LVEDV was maintained after multivariable adjustment for baseline age, systolic blood pressure, LVEDV, LVEF and history of myocardial infarction. The largest reverse remodelling was evident in the patients receiving a moderate number of injections (<20).

Conclusion

In CHART‐1, intramyocardial administration of cardiopoietic stem cells led to reverse remodelling as evidenced by significant progressive decreases in LVEDV and LVESV through the 52 weeks of follow‐up. Further studies are needed to explore the dose response with regard to cell number and injected volume, and reverse remodelling.
Monomeric C,N‐Chelated Germanium Hydrides in N–C Bond Cleavage
Authors: Tremmel Jakub , Dostál Libor , Erben Milan , Růžičková Zdeňka , Turek Jan , De Proft Frank , Jambor Roman
Published: May 2017

The synthesis of the monomeric organogermanium(II) hydrides [(LGeH)M(CO)5] [M = Cr (4), W (5)] by utilizing the C,N‐chelating ligand L {L = [2‐(CH2NEt2)‐4,6‐tBu2C6H2]–} was explored. Stabilization of the GeH terminal bond in 4 and 5 was accompanied by a combination of electronic and steric protection of ligand L. The reactivity of the GeH terminal bond was also investigated, and attempts to reduce the polar C≡N bond in tBuNC provided an unexpected N–C bond‐cleavage reaction yielding organogermanium(II) cyanides [(LGeCN)M(CO)5] [M = Cr (6), W (7)] instead of a hydrogermylation reaction.
Carbon/Silicon Exchange at the Apex of Diphos‐ and Triphos‐Derived Ligands – More Than Just a Substitute?
Authors: Petuker Anette , Reback Matthew L. , Apfel Ulf‐Peter
Published: May 2017

Diphos [R′2C(CH2PR′′2)2] and Triphos [R′C(CH2PR′′2)3] are convenient ligand platforms in catalysis. Likewise, their Si counterparts, [R′2Si(CH2PR′′2)2] and [R′Si(CH2PR′′2)3], are commonly employed as they have easier synthetic protocols towards the desired ligands. Alterations caused by C/Si exchange are often neglected and considered to have no significant influence on the properties of the complex; therefore, the differences are commonly not investigated. We show herein that C/Si backbone exchange does indeed have a significant influence on the stability and reactivity of metal complexes and should not be ignored.
Modern Aspects of Isotopic Labellings in Terpene Biosynthesis
Authors: Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: May 2017

In this review article recent isotopic labelling experiments are presented that served in the elucidation of the complex mechanisms of terpene biosynthesis. The article is structured by first presenting the recent advances in the biosynthesis of terpene monomers, followed by sections on monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and diterpenes. This overview covers a personal selection of eminent examples from the accumulated literature since 2010.
On the secrecy capacity region of 3‐user cognitive multiple‐access channels with confidential messages
Authors: Sonee Amir , Abed Hodtani Ghosheh
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we study 3‐user cognitive multiple‐access channel with confidential messages (CMAC‐CM) under the perfect secrecy criterion and for the overlay paradigm. In this channel model, each cognitive user has access to the knowledge of the corresponding noncognitive users' codebooks or messages to improve the reliable communication of noncognitive users. Also, each cognitive user wishes to transmit its own message to the intended receiver in a perfectly secure manner from the corresponding noncognitive users that try to obtain information about this message by exploiting outputs from the underlying channel. For the discrete alphabet and memoryless model of this channel, known as 3‐user DM‐CMAC‐CM, first, we obtain an inner bound and an outer bound on the secrecy capacity region, and second, we prove that these bounds meet for a class of less noisy eavesdropping channels. Third, an inner bound on the secrecy capacity region of the Gaussian version of CMAC‐CM, known as GCMAC‐CM, is obtained, and fourth, it is shown that this inner bound is optimal under a special security situation for which the secrecy capacity region as well as the secrecy sum‐capacity of a class of degraded 3‐user GCMAC‐CM is proposed. Finally, by numerical analysis, we validate the theoretical results and illustrate that our model and results include the previous ones.
Enhancement of the accuracy of the finite volume particle method for the simulation of incompressible flows
Authors: Liu X. , Morita K. , Zhang S.
Published: May 2017

A finite volume particle (FVP) method for simulation of incompressible flows that provides enhanced accuracy is proposed. In this enhanced FVP method, a dummy neighbor particle is introduced for each particle in the calculation and used for the discretization of the gradient model and Laplacian model. The error‐compensating term produced by introducing the dummy neighbor particle enables higher order terms to be calculated. The proposed gradient model and Laplacian model are applied in both pressure and pressure gradient calculations. This enhanced FVP scheme provides more accurate simulations of incompressible flows. Several 2‐dimensional numerical simulations are given to confirm its enhanced performance.
Acutely damaged axons are remyelinated in multiple sclerosis and experimental models of demyelination
Authors: Schultz Verena , van der Meer Franziska , Wrzos Claudia , Scheidt Uta , Bahn Erik , Stadelmann Christine , Brück Wolfgang , Junker Andreas
Published: May 2017

Remyelination is in the center of new therapies for the treatment of multiple sclerosis to resolve and improve disease symptoms and protect axons from further damage. Although remyelination is considered beneficial in the long term, it is not known, whether this is also the case early in lesion formation. Additionally, the precise timing of acute axonal damage and remyelination has not been assessed so far. To shed light onto the interrelation between axons and the myelin sheath during de‐ and remyelination, we employed cuprizone‐ and focal lysolecithin‐induced demyelination and performed time course experiments assessing the evolution of early and late stage remyelination and axonal damage. We observed damaged axons with signs of remyelination after cuprizone diet cessation and lysolecithin injection. Similar observations were made in early multiple sclerosis lesions. To assess the correlation of remyelination and axonal damage in multiple sclerosis lesions, we took advantage of a cohort of patients with early and late stage remyelinated lesions and assessed the number of APP‐ and SMI32‐ positive damaged axons and the density of SMI31‐positive and silver impregnated preserved axons. Early de‐ and remyelinating lesions did not differ with respect to axonal density and axonal damage, but we observed a lower axonal density in late stage demyelinated multiple sclerosis lesions than in remyelinated multiple sclerosis lesions. Our findings suggest that remyelination may not only be protective over a long period of time, but may play an important role in the immediate axonal recuperation after a demyelinating insult.
Psychometric evaluation of the Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory in an acute general hospital setting
Authors: Kupeli Nuriye , Vickerstaff Victoria , White Nicola , Lord Kathryn , Scott Sharon , Jones Louise , Sampson Elizabeth L.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

The Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI; (Cohen‐Mansfield and Kerin, 1986)) is a well‐known tool for assessing agitated behaviours in people with dementia who reside in long‐term care. No studies have evaluated the psychometric qualities and factor structure of the CMAI in acute general hospitals, a setting where people with demand may become agitated.

Method

Longitudinal study investigating pain, agitation and behavioural problems in 230 people with dementia admitted to acute general hospitals in 2011–2012. Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory was completed as part of a battery of assessments including PAINAD to measure pain.

Results

A nine‐item two‐factor model of aggressive and nonaggressive behaviours proved to be the best‐fitting measurement model in this sample, (χ2 = 96.3, df = 26, p<0.001; BIC [Bayesian Information Criterion] = 4593.06, CFI [Comparative Fit Index] = 0.884, TLI [Tucker Lewis Index] = 0.839, RMSEA [Root Mean Square Error of the Approximation] = 0.108). Although similar to the original factor structure, the new model resulted in the elimination of item 13 (screaming). Validity was confirmed with the shortened CMAI showing similar associations with pain as the original version of the CMAI, in particular the link between aggressive behaviours and pain.

Conclusion

The factor structure of the CMAI was broadly consistent with the original solution although a large number of items were removed. Scales reflecting physical and verbal aggression were combined to form an Aggressive factor, and physical and verbal nonaggressive behaviours were combined to form the Nonaggressive factor. A shorter, more concise version of the CMAI was developed for use in acute general hospital settings. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gender differences in healthy aging and Alzheimer's Dementia: A 18F‐FDG‐PET study of brain and cognitive reserve
Authors: Malpetti Maura , Ballarini Tommaso , Presotto Luca , Garibotto Valentina , Tettamanti Marco , Perani Daniela ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database;,   Network for Efficiency and Standardization of Dementia Diagnosis (NEST‐DD) database
Published: May 2017

Cognitive reserve (CR) and brain reserve (BR) are protective factors against age‐associated cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders. Very limited evidence exists about gender effects on brain aging and on the effect of CR on brain modulation in healthy aging and Alzheimer's Dementia (AD). We investigated gender differences in brain metabolic activity and resting‐state network connectivity, as measured by 18F‐FDG‐PET, in healthy aging and AD, also considering the effects of education and occupation. The clinical and imaging data were retrieved from large datasets of healthy elderly subjects (HE) (225) and AD patients (282). In HE, males showed more extended age‐related reduction of brain metabolism than females in frontal medial cortex. We also found differences in brain modulation as metabolic increases induced by education and occupation, namely in posterior associative cortices in HE males and in the anterior limbic‐affective and executive networks in HE females. In AD patients, the correlations between education and occupation levels and brain hypometabolism showed gender differences, namely a posterior temporo‐parietal association in males and a frontal and limbic association in females, indicating the involvement of different networks. Finally, the metabolic connectivity in both HE and AD aligned with these results, suggesting greater efficiency in the posterior default mode network for males, and in the anterior frontal executive network for females. The basis of these brain gender differences in both aging and AD, obtained exploring cerebral metabolism, metabolic connectivity and the effects of education and occupation, is likely at the intersection between biological and sociodemographic factors. Hum Brain Mapp 38:4212–4227, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MxA is a positive regulator of type I IFN signaling in HCV infection
Authors: Shi Xuezhen , Jiao Baihai , Chen Yanzhao , Li Shilin , Chen Limin
Published: May 2017

Type I interferons (IFNs) are a family of primordial cytokines that respond to various pathogen infections including Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Type I IFNs signal through Jak/STAT pathway leading to the production of a few hundred interferon stimulated genes (ISGs). The aim of this study was to explore the role of one of these ISGs, MxA in HCV infection and type I IFN production. Plasmid encoding MxA was cloned into PcDNA3.1‐3×tag vector and MxA expression was confirmed both at mRNA (RT‐PCR) and protein (Western blot, WB) levels. IFNα and IFNβ productions were quantified by RT‐PCR from cell lysate and by ELISA kit from culture medium following MxA over‐expression in Huh7.5.1 cells. The activation status of Jak/STAT signaling pathway was examined at three levels: p‐STAT1 (WB), interferon sensitive response element (ISRE) activity (dual luciferase reporter gene assay), and levels of ISG expression (RT‐qPCR). J6/JFH1 HCV culture system was used to study the role of MxA in HCV replication. Our findings indicated that MxA over‐expression inhibited HCV replication and potentiated the IFNα‐mediated anti‐HCV activity; MxA stimulated the production of IFNα, IFNβ, and enhanced IFNα‐induced activation of Jak‐STAT signaling pathway. We concluded that MxA is a positive regulator of type I IFN signaling in HCV infection.
Influence of regional Arctic sea ice extent on lagged snowfall in the contiguous United States
Authors: Kluver Daria
Published: May 2017

The lagged relationship between Arctic sea ice extent (SIE) and United States snowfall is explored in this study. Monthly snowfall amounts are computed from 440 stations in the contiguous United States from 1979 to 2009 and compared with total and regionalized Arctic SIE over the same time period. Principal Components Analysis along with multiple linear regression is used to determine the sea ice regions and lags that explain the most variation in snowfall amount. Although previous work has identified total summer sea ice as a predictor for the following winter's US snowfall, this study shows that the Kara Sea SIE is more influential for fall snowfall, and total SIE explains snowfall variability more in the spring. In the fall, longer lags indicate that the previous spring SIE is a good predictor of snowfall. In the late winter and spring there are generally shorter lags, where early winter SIE explains the most variability in snowfall. When just the first two principal components are considered, Kara Sea SIE and atmospheric teleconnections become the most consistent predictors of subsequent US snowfall. Results highlight the skill of regionalized Arctic SIE in explaining snowfall variability and how attention to Arctic regions could potentially improve seasonal snowfall forecasts.
Bilateral vestibulopathy with positive Tullio phenomenon
Authors: Finn Sigrid , Dietzek Maren , Karvouniari Panagiota , Klingner Carsten M. , Neumann Rotraud , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando , Witte Otto W. , Axer Hubertus
Published: May 2017

We describe the case of a 34‐year‐old patient presenting with the unique combination of bilateral vestibulopathy in combination with noise‐ and pressure‐induced nystagmus. Bilateral vestibular dysfunction was demonstrated by pathological results in video‐based head impulse testing as well as in caloric testing. In contrast, cervical vestibular‐evoked myogenic potentials were normal, demonstrating normal sacculus function. Due to the positive Tullio phenomenon, semicircular dehiscence syndrome was excluded. Recently, this symptom combination was related to the histopathological finding of vestibular atelectasis.

Level of Evidence

NA.Laryngoscope, 128:1223–1225, 2018
Bone wax extrusion through postauricular wounds: A case series
Authors: Baird Samantha M. , Teh Bing M. , Lim Kelvin K. M. , Campbell Matthew C.
Published: May 2017

Bone wax is an effective hemostatic agent that generally is considered safe. However, because it is nonabsorbable, significant complications can occur. We present the first two reported cases of delayed migration and extrusion of bone wax through postauricular wounds due to foreign body reaction and granuloma formation following mastoid surgery. We also present a literature review of complications associated with intraoperative bone wax use and discuss alternative hemostatic agents. Laryngoscope, 128:369–372, 2018
Sensitivity analysis of magnetic field measurements for magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT)
Authors: Göksu Cihan , Scheffler Klaus , Ehses Philipp , Hanson Lars G. , Thielscher Axel
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Clinical use of magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT) still requires significant sensitivity improvements. Here, the measurement of the current‐induced magnetic field (ΔBz,c) is improved using systematic efficiency analyses and optimization of multi‐echo spin echo (MESE) and steady‐state free precession free induction decay (SSFP‐FID) sequences.

Theory and Methods

Considering T1, T2, and
relaxation in the signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) of the MR magnitude images, the efficiency of MESE and SSFP‐FID MREIT experiments, and its dependence on the sequence parameters, are analytically analyzed and simulated. The theoretical results are experimentally validated in a saline‐filled homogenous spherical phantom with relaxation parameters similar to brain tissue. Measurement of ΔBz,c is also performed in a cylindrical phantom with saline and chicken meat.

Results

The efficiency simulations and experimental results are in good agreement. When using optimal parameters, ΔBz,c can be reliably measured in the phantom even at injected current strengths of 1 mA or lower for both sequence types. The importance of using proper crusher gradient selection on the phase evolution in a MESE experiment is also demonstrated.

Conclusion

The efficiencies observed with the optimized sequence parameters will likely render in‐vivo human brain MREIT feasible. Magn Reson Med 79:748–760, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Relationship of changes in strain rate indices estimated from velocity‐encoded MR imaging to loss of muscle force following disuse atrophy
Authors: Malis Vadim , Sinha Usha , Csapo Robert , Narici Marco , Sinha Shantanu
Published: May 2017

Purpose

This study explores changes in strain rate (SR) (rate of regional deformation) parameters extracted from velocity‐encoded MRI and their relationship to muscle force loss following 4‐week unilateral lower limb suspension in healthy humans.

Methods

Two‐dimensional SR maps were derived from three directional velocity‐encoded MR phase‐contrast images of the medial gastrocnemius in seven subjects. Atrophy‐related and regional differences in the SR eigenvalues, angle between the SR and muscle fiber (SR‐fiber angle), and strain rates in the fiber basis were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance and linear regression.

Results

During isometric contraction, SR in the fiber cross section (SRin‐plane) was significantly lower, and the SR‐fiber angle was significantly higher postsuspension (P < 0.05). On multiple variable regression analysis, the volume of medial gastrocnemius, SRin‐plane, and SR‐fiber angle were significantly associated with force and changes in the, and the SR eigenvalues and shear SR were significantly associated with change in force with disuse.

Conclusions

Changes in SR‐fiber angle, SRin‐plane, and shear SR as well as their ability to predict force and force changes may reflect the role of remodeling of the extracellular matrix in disuse atrophy and its functional consequence in reducing lateral transmission of force. Magn Reson Med 79:912–922, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
An arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian framework with exact mass conservation for the numerical simulation of 2D rising bubble problem
Authors: Guventurk Cagatay , Sahin Mehmet
Published: May 2017

An arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian framework, which combines the advantages of both Lagrangian and Eulerian methods, is presented to solve incompressible multiphase flow problems. The incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations are discretized using the side‐centered unstructured finite volume method, where the velocity vector components are defined at the midpoint of each cell face, while the pressure term is defined at element centroids. The pressure field is treated to be discontinuous across the interface with the discontinuous treatment of density and viscosity. The surface tension term at the interface is treated as a force tangent to the interface and computed with several different approaches including the use of Legendre polynomials. In addition, the several different discretizations of interface kinematic boundary conditions are investigated. For the application of the interface kinematic boundary condition, a special attention is given to satisfy both local and global discrete geometric conservation law to conserve the total mass of both species at machine precision. The mesh vertices are deformed by solving the linear elasticity equations due to the normal displacement of interface. The resulting algebraic equations are solved in a fully coupled manner, and a one‐level restricted additive Schwarz preconditioner with a block‐incomplete factorization within each partitioned subdomain is used for the resulting fully coupled system. The method is validated by simulating the classical benchmark problem of a single rising bubble in a viscous fluid due to buoyancy. The results of numerical simulations are found out to be in an excellent agreement with the earlier results in the literature. The mass of the bubble is conserved, and discontinuous pressure field is obtained to avoid errors due to the incompressibility condition in the vicinity of the interface, where the density and viscosity jumps occur.
Knowledge and self‐care behaviors among patients with heart failure in Jordan
Authors: Tawalbeh Loai I. , Al Qadire Mohammad , Ahmad Muayyad M. , Aloush Sami , Abu Sumaqa Yasmeen , Halabi Marawa
Published: May 2017

Knowledge is known to affect self‐care behaviors. However, little is known about the factors that influence self‐care behaviors among patients with heart failure in Jordan. A cross‐sectional descriptive‐correlational design was used to describe the associations between knowledge, sociodemographics, and self‐care behaviors. In a convenience sample of 226 patients with heart failure, the Dutch Heart Failure Scale and Self‐Care of Heart Failure Index (SCHFI) version 6.2 were used to measure knowledge and self‐care behaviors, respectively. The mean heart failure knowledge score was quite low at 5.29. The SCHFI self‐care management subscale mean was 57.56 with an actual range of 10–90, and the SCHFI self‐care maintenance subscale mean was 53.89 with an actual range of 13.33–86.66. The SCHFI self‐care confidence subscale mean was lowest of the three at 45.07, with an actual range of 5.56–94.52. All three subscale mean scores were below the clinical target level (≥70) for the SCHFI. Lower knowledge, income, and educational level, shorter duration of disease, fewer people living at home, older age, and being unemployed were significant predictors of low self‐care scores. Characteristics of the cultural, social, and healthcare environment in Jordan may help explain some results. Nurses may play a role in improving knowledge and self‐care among patients with heart failure in Jordan. Studies of the effect of educational programs on knowledge and self‐care among patients with heart failure are recommended.
Cluster microstructure and local elasticity of carbon‐epoxy nanocomposites studied by impulse acoustic microscopy
Authors: Levin Vadim , Morokov Egor , Petronyuk Yulia , Cataldo Antonino , Bistarelli Silvia , Micciulla Federico , Bellucci Stefano
Published: May 2017

The impulse acoustic microscopy method was applied to observe the bulk microstructure and to measure sonic velocities and elastic moduli in the carbon nanocomposite specimens prepared by a traditional method and with the use of a vacuum mixer. It is shown that carbon nanoparticles tend to cluster and form micron‐sized aggregates. The impulse acoustic microscopy technique makes it possible to visualize a non‐uniform distribution of carbon nanofillers over the specimen bulk. Both nanotube and nanoplatelets conglomerates are visible most likely due to the air containing. Results of the elastic measurements demonstrate homogeneity of elastic properties over the material bulk and a weak dependence of sonic velocities and elastic moduli on the filler content. Reduction of the air content and enhancement of elastic properties are observed when increasing the nanofiller content and employing the vacuum mixing technology in nanocomposite fabrication. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:697–702, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Industrially feasible, dopant‐free, carrier‐selective contacts for high‐efficiency silicon solar cells
Authors: Yang Xinbo , Weber Klaus , Hameiri Ziv , De Wolf Stefaan
Published: May 2017

Dopant‐free, carrier‐selective contacts (CSCs) on high efficiency silicon solar cells combine ease of deposition with potential optical benefits. Electron‐selective titanium dioxide (TiO2) contacts, one of the most promising dopant‐free CSC technologies, have been successfully implemented into silicon solar cells with an efficiency over 21%. Here, we report further progress of TiO2 contacts for silicon solar cells and present an assessment of their industrial feasibility. With improved TiO2 contact quality and cell processing, a remarkable efficiency of 22.1% has been achieved using an n‐type silicon solar cell featuring a full‐area TiO2 contact. Next, we demonstrate the compatibility of TiO2 contacts with an industrial contact‐firing process, its low performance sensitivity to the wafer resistivity, its applicability to ultrathin substrates as well as its long‐term stability. Our findings underscore the great appeal of TiO2 contacts for industrial implementation with their combination of high efficiency with robust fabrication at low cost. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Climate on Morphology and Development of Sorted Circles and Polygons
Authors: Uxa Tomáš , Mida Peter , Křížek Marek
Published: May 2017

Sorted circles and polygons are widespread features of periglacial landscapes, but the controls on their development remain poorly understood, impeding their use as palaeoenvironmental indicators. We investigate the relationship of sorted circles and polygons to altitude in the northern Billefjorden area, central Svalbard. The patterns occur in two distinct elevation zones, below 200–250 m asl and above 600 m asl. The higher‐elevated patterns have smaller diameters and shallower sorting depths due to a thinner active layer at higher elevations, suggesting that sorted patterns can indicate climate conditions and ground thermal state when the patterns initiated. Geology is believed to be of less importance for pattern morphology in the study area, causing only its fine‐scale variations. The pattern diameter‐to‐sorting depth ratios have a median value of 3.57, consistent with previous studies and theoretical models of patterned‐ground formation involving circulation mechanisms. Large‐scale sorted patterns may develop over centennial timescales in this high‐Arctic environment. They are probably not in equilibrium with present‐day climate conditions and have probably formed throughout the Holocene. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of fucosylated Fetuin‐A as a potential biomarker for cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Betesh Lucy , Comunale Mary Ann , Wang Mengjun , Liang Hongyan , Hafner Julie , Karabudak Aykan , Giama Nasra H. , Moser Catherine D. , Miyoshi Eiji , Roberts Lewis R. , Block Timothy M. , Mehta Anand
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a malignancy of the bile ducts. The purpose of this discovery study was to identify effective serum markers for surveillance of cholangiocarcinoma.

Experimental design

Using a glycomic method, patients with CCA were determined to have increased levels of alpha‐1,3 and alpha‐1,6 linked fucosylated glycan. Proteomic analysis of the serum fucosylated proteome identified proteins such as alpha‐2‐macroglobulin, kininogen, hemopexin, fetuin‐A, alpha‐1 anti‐trypsin, and ceruloplasmin as being hyperfucosylated in HCC. The levels of these glycoproteins in 109 patients with CCA, primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and control patients were compared to the performance of CA‐19‐9, the current “gold standard” assay for cholangiocarcinoma.

Results

Fucosylated Fetuin‐A (fc‐Fetuin‐A) had the best ability to differentiate CCA from PSC, with an AUROC of 0.812 or 0.8665 at differentiating CCA from those with PSC or other liver disease. CA‐19‐9 had poor ability to differentiate PSC from cholangiocarcinoma (AUROC of 0.625).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Using glycomic and proteomic methods we identified a set of proteins that contain altered glycan in the sera of those with CCA. One of these proteins, fucosylated Fetuin‐A may have value in the surveillance of people at risk for the development of cholangiocarcinoma.