bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase II trial of bevacizumab + cetuximab + cisplatin with concurrent intensity‐modulated radiation therapy for patients with stage III/IVB head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Fury Matthew G. , Xiao Han , Sherman Eric J. , Baxi Shrujal , Smith–Marrone Stephanie , Schupak Karen , Gewanter Richard , Gelblum Daphna , Haque Sofia , Schoder Heiko , Shah Jatin P. , Katabi Nora , Kurtzman Rachel , Lipson Brynna , Cox Lisa , Lee Nancy Y. , Pfister David G.
Published: March 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the addition of 2 monoclonal antibodies, bevacizumab and cetuximab, to 2 cycles of high‐dose cisplatin administered concurrently with intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

Patients with newly diagnosed stage III/IVB (M0) HNSCC received cetuximab (400 mg/m2 loading dose, followed by 250 mg/m2 weekly), bevacizumab (15 mg/kg, days 1 and 22), and cisplatin (50 mg/m2, days 1, 2, 22, and 23) concurrently with IMRT (70 Gy). The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and safety and tolerability.

Results

Among 30 patients enrolled in this study, the primary tumor site was the oropharynx in 24 patients (p16 immunohistochemistry was positive in 17, negative in 1, and not done in 6 of the oropharyngeal tumors). Median age was 57 years (range, 38–77 years) and 27 patients had clinical stage IVA disease. All patients completed the full planned dose of radiation therapy. The most common ≥ grade 3 adverse events were lymphopenia, mucositis (functional), and dysphagia. With a median follow‐up of 33.8 months, 2‐year PFS was 88.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 68.1–96.1) and 2‐year OS was 92.8% (95% CI = 74.2–98.1).

Conclusion

The addition of bevacizumab and cetuximab to 2 cycles of cisplatin, given concurrently with IMRT, was well‐tolerated and was associated with favorable efficacy outcomes in this patient population. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E566–E570, 2016
Prognostic evaluation of percentage variation of metabolic tumor burden calculated by dual‐phase 18FDG PET‐CT imaging in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Abgral Ronan , Valette Gérald , Robin Philippe , Rousset Jean , Keromnes Nathalie , Le Roux Pierre‐Yves , Marianowski Rémi , Salaün Pierre‐Yves
Published: March 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of percentage variation of metabolic tumor burden in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

Patients referred to undergo 18fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)‐CT for staging of HNSCC were included in this study. Using a dual‐phase method, standardized uptake value maximum (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were recorded and respectively used to calculate retention index (RI), %ΔMTV, and %ΔTLG. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was determined by Kaplan–Meier method and compared with studied PET parameters in univariate and multivariate.

Results

Seventy patients (61 men/9 women; 62.9 ± 9.1 years old) were included. In univariate, SUVmax, RI, MTV, and TLG (p ≤ .0001) were significantly correlated with RFS, unlike %ΔMTV (p = 137) and %ΔTLG (p = .517). In multivariate, RI (p = .005) and MTV (p = .022) persisted as independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

Our results did not prove a prognostic interest of percentage variation of metabolic tumor burden in patients with HNSCC but confirmed that RI and MTV are independently correlated with RFS. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E600–E606, 2016
Early oral cancer diagnosis: The Aarhus statement perspective. A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Seoane Juan , Alvarez–Novoa Pablo , Gomez Iria , Takkouche Bahi , Diz Pedro , Warnakulasiruya Saman , Seoane–Romero Juan M. , Varela–Centelles Pablo
Published: March 2015

Background

Mortality is linked to diagnostic intervals in certain cancers. As symptom perception is conditioned by tumor site, a specific study on oral cancer is needed.

Methods

This study's inclusion criteria were original data, symptomatic primary oral squamous cell carcinoma, and exposure of interest, diagnostic interval, or diagnostic delay. The outcome of interest was survival and disease stage. A meta‐analysis was undertaken to investigate the relationship between intervals to diagnosis, TNM classification, and survival in oral cancer.

Results

Regarding referral delay, the results present no heterogeneity and showed a risk increase in mortality of 2.48 (range = 1.39–4.42). The larger the diagnostic delay, the more advanced the stage at diagnosis. High quality studies reveal a higher risk increase than low quality studies (odds ratio [OR] = 2.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36–4.36 vs OR = 1.53; 95% CI = 1.26–1.86).

Conclusion

A longer time interval from first symptom to referral for diagnosis is a risk factor for advanced stage and mortality of oral cancer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2182–E2189, 2016
Development of an adaptive monitoring framework for long-term programs: An example using indicators of fish health
Authors: Arciszewski Tim J , Munkittrick Kelly R
Published: March 2015

Detecting unwanted changes associated with localized human activities in aquatic ecosystems requires defining the value of an indicator expected at a site in the absence of development. Ideally, adequate and comparable baseline data will be collected at an exposure location before that development, but this is rarely done. Instead, comparisons are made using various designs to overcome the inadequate or missing baseline data. Commonly these comparisons are done over short periods, using information from local reference sites to estimate variability expected at the exposed site. Results of these truncated designs are often evaluated using p values that may have little bearing on ecologically relevant changes. To remedy the reliance of studies on small datasets collected at reference sites, other designs emphasize regional analyses, but these may be insensitive to site-specific changes. Some designs also may forego discussing the consequences of detecting any differences. A new monitoring framework has been proposed to use existing solutions, simplify analysis, and focus on the detection of meaningful changes. It is illustrated here by using data on fish health from a large-scale, long-term program in the Moose River basin in northern Ontario. This framework advocates interpretation of data at multiple scales: within-site, locally, and regionally. The primary focus is on estimating a range from a probability distribution of historical data collected at a specific location where 95% of future observations are predicted to occur. Changes at the exposed site are also compared with historical and contemporary expectations from proximate and regional reference sites. Critical effect sizes also can be derived from regional reference data to evaluate the magnitude of differences observed between any 2 sites. Any unexpected changes inform future monitoring decisions provided by a priori guidance. Adoption of this framework extends the utility of monitoring programs in which commitments to long-term collections have been made, advocates harmonization of studies over time and space, and focuses attention on unusual observations. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2015;X:000–000. ©2015 SETAC.

Key Points

Understanding the relevance of changes is difficult and is an overlooked component of monitoring studies. Ecological relevance can be described with critical effect sizes and normal ranges. Critical effect sizes can be defined by sampling reference sites. Monitoring can be evaluated at multiple spatial and temporal scales to better understand the relevance of changes.
Varying RGD concentration and cell phenotype alters the expression of extracellular matrix genes in vocal fold fibroblasts
Authors: Kosinski Aaron M. , Sivasankar M. Preeti , Panitch Alyssa
Published: March 2015

The impact of RGD integrin binding‐peptide concentration and cell phenotype on directing extracellular matrix (ECM) gene expression in vocal fold fibroblasts is little understood. Less is known about cell response to RGD concentration on a biomaterial when fibroblasts are in a scar‐like environment compared to a healthy environment. We investigated the effects of varying RGD integrin‐binding peptide surface concentration on ECM gene expression of elastin, collagen type 3 alpha 1, decorin, fibronectin, hyaluronan synthase 2, and collagen type 1 alpha 2 in scarred and unscarred immortalized human vocal fold fibroblasts (I‐HVFFs). Phenotype and RGD concentration affected ECM gene expression. Phenotype change from healthy to myofibroblast‐like resulted in ECM gene up‐regulation for all genes tested, except for decorin. Systematically altering RGD concentration affected the expression of elastin and collagen type 3 alpha 1 in a myofibroblast phenotype. Specifically greater up‐regulation in gene expression was observed with higher RGD concentrations. This research demonstrates that controlling RGD concentration may influence ECM gene expression levels in fibroblasts. Such knowledge is critical in developing the next generation of bioactive materials that, when implanted into sites of tissue damage and scarring, will direct cells to regenerate healthy tissues with normal ECM ratios and morphologies. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3094–3100, 2015.
Triethylbenzylammonium Chloride as a Useful and Efficient Catalyst for the Alkylation of Indole/substituted Indoles in Water: A Comparative Study between Conventional and Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Tumtina Shokip , Kathing Chingrishon , Phucho Ivulho Tovishe , Nongrum Ridaphun , Myrboh Bekington , Nongkhlaw Rishanlang
Published: March 2015

A green and facile method for the alkylation of indole/substituted indole in water using a phase Transfer catalyst (Triethylbenzylammonium Chloride, TEBA) to synthesise bis‐indolyl methanes (BIMs) and Michael addition of indole to α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds is reported. The substitution of indoles occurred exclusively at the 3‐position and products of N‐alkylation has not been observed. However, for 3‐substituted indoles, reactions were found to occur at the 2‐position. A comparative study between conventional heating and microwave irradiation has also been reported.
A morphological novelty for feeding and sound production in the yellowtail clownfish
Authors: Olivier Damien , Frédérich Bruno , Herrel Anthony , Parmentier Eric
Published: March 2015

The yellowtail clownfish Amphiprion clarkii is able to close its mouth very quickly by means of the cerato‐mandibular (c‐md) ligament, a synapomorphic trait of Pomacentridae joining the hyoid bar to the medial part of the lower jaw. This fast closure induces tooth collision, thus producing sounds that the clownfish uses during agonistic behaviors. To investigate whether this rapid jaw movement is also used during feeding, we analyzed the kinematics of sound production and feeding. Sound production, feeding on live planktonic prey, and feeding on food attached to tweezers was filmed with a high‐speed camera. Three kinds of kinematic patterns were detected and were associated with the two different types of food presented: one performed to catch planktonic prey (PP), and two (called B‐1 and B‐2) to bite attached food items. The kinematic pattern of B‐2 is similar to that observed during sound production (SP) and the transection of the c‐md ligament highlights that sound production and biting‐2 motions are dependent on this morphological trait. Our data show that the c‐md ligament in addition to its role in sound production allows duplication of the mouth‐closing mechanism during feeding. This highlights the key role played by the c‐md ligament in sound production and feeding on attached prey. J. Exp. Zool. 323A: 227–238, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and Biological Activities of Novel 6‐Alkylamino‐11,12‐dihydro‐11‐arylbenzo[c]phenanthridine Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Min , Liu Li , Xiao Huifeng , Zhao Ting , Yang Liuqing , Xu Xiaohua
Published: March 2015

A series of novel benzo[c]phenanthridine derivatives 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, 2i, 2j, 2k, 2l, 2m and 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f bearing an alkylamino side chain at their 6‐position were synthesized. All of the target compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS, and some of them were also characterized by IR and 19F NMR. The preliminary bioassays showed that the target compounds displayed fungicidal activities; for example, compound 2l showed 60.0% and 70.0% inhibitive activity against Alternaria solani and Cercospora arachidicola at 50 mg/L, respectively, and some compounds also displayed plant growth‐regulating activities.
Computational approach to radiogenomics of breast cancer: Luminal A and luminal B molecular subtypes are associated with imaging features on routine breast MRI extracted using computer vision algorithms
Authors: Grimm Lars J. , Zhang Jing , Mazurowski Maciej A.
Published: March 2015

Purpose

To identify associations between semiautomatically extracted MRI features and breast cancer molecular subtypes.

Methods

We analyzed routine clinical pre‐operative breast MRIs from 275 breast cancer patients at a single institution in this retrospective, Institutional Review Board‐approved study. Six fellowship‐trained breast imagers reviewed the MRIs and annotated the cancers. Computer vision algorithms were then used to extract 56 imaging features from the cancers including morphologic, texture, and dynamic features. Surrogate markers (estrogen receptor [ER], progesterone receptor [PR], human epidermal growth factor receptor‐2 [HER2]) were used to categorize tumors by molecular subtype: ER/PR+, HER2− (luminal A); ER/PR+, HER2+ (luminal B); ER/PR−, HER2+ (HER2); ER/PR/HER2− (basal). A multivariate analysis was used to determine associations between the imaging features and molecular subtype.

Results

The imaging features were associated with both luminal A (P = 0.0007) and luminal B (P = 0.0063) molecular subtypes. No association was found for either HER2 (P = 0.2465) or basal (P = 0.1014) molecular subtype and the imaging features. A P‐value of 0.0125 (0.05/4) was considered significant.

Conclusion

Luminal A and luminal B molecular subtype breast cancer are associated with semiautomatically extracted features from routine contrast enhanced breast MRI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:902–907.
Amino acid mutations in Ebola virus glycoprotein of the 2014 epidemic
Authors: Giovanetti Marta , Grifoni Alba , Lo Presti Alessandra , Cella Eleonora , Montesano Carla , Zehender Gianguglielmo , Colizzi Vittorio , Amicosante Massimo , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: March 2015

Zaire Ebola virus (EBOV) is an enveloped non‐segmented negative strand RNA virus of 19 kb in length belonging to the family Filoviridae. The virus was isolated and identified in 1976 during the epidemic of hemorrhagic fever in Zaire. The most recent outbreak of EBOV among humans, was that occurred in the forested areas of south eastern Guinea, that began in February 2014 and is still ongoing. The recent Ebola outbreak, is affecting other countries in West Africa, in addiction to Guinea: Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. In this article, a selective pressure analysis and homology modeling based on the G Glycoprotein (GP) sequences retrieved from public databases were used to investigate the genetic diversity and modification of antibody response in the recent outbreak of Ebola Virus. Structural and the evolutionary analysis underline the 2014 epidemic virus being under negative selective pressure does not change with respect to the old epidemic in terms of genome adaptation. J. Med. Virol. 87:893–898, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human cytomegalovirus induced pseudotumor of upper gastrointestinal tract mucosa: Effects of long‐term chronic disease?
Authors: Reggiani Bonetti Luca , Barresi Valeria , Bertani Angela , Maccio Livia , Palmiere Cristian
Published: March 2015

Human cytomegalovirus‐induced lesions resembling malignancies have been described in the gastrointestinal tract and include ulcerated or exophytic large masses. The aim of this study was to review the cases registered in the databases of two academic hospitals and formulate a hypothesis concerning the pathogenic mechanisms responsible for cytomegalovirus‐induced pseudotumor development. All the diagnoses of human cytomegalovirus infections of the upper gastrointestinal tract recorded from 1991 to 2013 were reviewed. Cases of mucosal alterations misdiagnosed endoscopically as malignancies were selected. Large ulcers occurring in the stomach (three cases) and an irregular exophytic mass at the gastro‐jejunal anastomosis were misdiagnosed endoscopically as malignancies (4 cases out of 53). Histologically, all lesions reflected hyperplastic mucosal changes with a prevalence of epithelial and stroma infected cells, without signs of cell atypia. The hypothesis presented is that the development of human cytomegalovirus‐induced pseudotumors may be the morphological expression of chronic mucosa damage underlying long‐term infection.J. Med. Virol. 87:1041–1045, 2015.© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hepatitis B immunoprophylaxis failure and the presence of hepatitis B surface gene mutants in the affected children
Authors: Lee Le Ye , Aw Marion , Rauff Mary , Loh Kah‐Sin , Lim Seng Gee , Lee Guan Huei
Published: March 2015

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is usually vertically transmitted from the mother to child during birth in Asian countries. Despite immunization, immunoprophylaxis failure is well‐documented. The aim of the study was to study immunoprophylaxis failure rate in the cohort of infants delivered by chronic HBV‐infected mothers and to determine risk factors for failure. This was an observational study involving chronic hepatitis B infected mothers seen at a tertiary care center in Singapore between June 2009 and December 2013. Infants born to these mothers were recruited after they had completed the recommended vaccination schedule. Serological testing for the children was performed 3 months after completion of the last dose of vaccine. HBV surface gene sequencing was carried out if HBV DNA was detectable in the children. Among the 161 mothers enrolled, most were HBeAg negative. HBeAg positive mothers were younger and had a significantly higher viral load (6.5 log) as compared to HBeAg negative mothers (1.35 log) (P < 0.001). Four children (2.6%) were found to have immunoprophylaxis failure. Two occurred in children delivered by mothers with extremely high viral load of more than 5 × 107 IU/ml. HBV surface gene mutations were detected in most children (3 out of 4) with immunoprophylaxis failure. The overall effectiveness of the hepatitis B vaccination program was high. High maternal viral load and presence of surface gene mutants may be potential contributors. J. Med. Virol. 87:1344–1350, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aspergillus oryzae fermented germinated soybean extract alleviates perimenopausal symptoms in ovariectomised rats
Authors: Jeong Mingeum , Lee Dong Sung , Suh Hyung Joo , Park Yooheon
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND

Soybeans have been widely used to alleviate climacteric symptoms. In this study, we investigated the oestrogenic activities of isoflavones extracted from Aspergillus oryzae‐challenged germinated soybeans (AO‐GS). Eight‐week‐old virgin Sprague–Dawley female rats were ovariectomised (OVX). The rats were orally administered 0.1 mg kg−1 17α‐ethinyl oestradiol or three different doses of AO‐GS (0.5, 1.0 2.0 g kg−1 day−1) in distilled water for 6 weeks, while control rats were administered vehicle alone. Uterine weights and levels of oestradiol and testosterone in serum were measured. In addition to serum parameters, bone parameters were also acquired by using micro‐computed tomography scanning.

RESULTS

Treatments of OVX rats with AO‐GS changed the secretory profile of serum oestradiol and testosterone. Serum oestradiol levels were significantly increased in OVX rats treated with and AO‐GS (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 g kg−1 day−1), while serum testosterone levels were not significantly increased in OVX rats treated with 1.0 g kg−1 day−1 of AO‐GS. Furthermore, AO‐GS (2.0 g kg−1 day−1) significantly attenuated bone loss, increased trabecular bone volume fraction and trabecular thickness, and significantly decreased trabecular pattern factor.

CONCLUSION

AO‐GS treatments caused moderate oestrogenic activity in OVX rats compared to those treated with oestradiol, suggesting the potential for the use of AO‐GS in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and in osteoporosis caused by oestrogen deficiency. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Temporal characteristics of hyolaryngeal structural movements in normal swallowing
Authors: Nam Hyung Seok , Oh Byung‐Mo , Han Tai Ryoon
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the relationship between movements of hyolaryngeal structures and fluid bolus transition in normal swallowing using automatized kinematic analysis of the videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS).

Study Design

A prospective, descriptive study.

Methods

Seventy‐five healthy volunteers underwent VFSS with 2 mL of diluted barium. The timing and sequence of structural movements were measured for laryngeal elevation (LE), hyoid excursion (HE), epiglottic rotation (ER), and fluid bolus transition.

Results

The rapid movement of LE (reference time point) was initiated simultaneously with the fluid bolus head passing the mandibular angle (−0.05 s, P = .07), followed by rapid onset of HE with significant temporal difference (P < .001). After the hyoid onset, onset of ER (0.17 s, P < .001), entrance of the bolus through upper esophageal sphincter (0.33 s, P < .001), maximal point of LE (0.52 s, P < .001), HE (0.53 s, P = .344), and maximal point of ER (0.64 s, P < .001) followed sequentially. For subgroup analysis, we classified 50 subjects without premature bolus loss (PBL) or pharyngeal triggering delay (PTD) into the “early group,” and 24 subjects with PBL or PTD for <1 s into the “late group.” In both groups, the sequence of the structural movements did not change. The early group showed significant correlation between the fluid transition and structural movements; both LE and HE were initiated when the bolus passed the mandibular angle, and the ER was initiated when the bolus reached the vallecula.

Conclusions

We demonstrated a characteristic pattern of hyolaryngeal structural movements in normal swallowing. The results may serve as a basis for classifying and analyzing aspiration patterns in patients with dysphagia.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 125:2129–2133, 2015
Do the angle and length of the eustachian tube influence the development of chronic otitis media?
Authors: Dinç Aykut Erdem , Damar Murat , Uğur Mehmet Birol , Öz Ibrahim Ilker , Eliçora Sultan Şevik , Bişkin Sultan , Tutar Hakan
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To compare the eustachian tube (ET) angle (ETa) and length (ETl) of ears with and without chronic otitis media (COM), and to determine the relationship between ET anatomy and the development of COM.

Study Design

A retrospective case‐control study.

Methods

The study group comprised 125 patients (age range, 8–79 years; 64 males and 61 females) with 124 normal ears and 126 diseased ears, including ears with chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) with central perforation, intratympanic tympanosclerosis (ITTS), cholesteatoma, and a tympanic membrane with retraction pockets (TMRP). ET angle and length were measured using computed tomography employing the multiplanar reconstruction technique.

Results

The ETa was significantly more horizontal in diseased versus normal ears of all study groups (P = .030), and there was no group difference in ETl (P = .160). ETl was shorter in CSOM versus ITTS ears and normal ears (P = .007 and P = .003, respectively) and in cholesteatoma versus TMRP ears (P = .014). In the unilateral COM group, there were no significant differences in the ETa or ETl of diseased versus contralateral normal ears (P = .155 and P = .710, respectively). The ETa was significantly more horizontal in childhood‐onset diseased versus normal ears (P = .027), and there was no group difference in ETl (P = .732). The ETa (P = .002) and ETl (P < .001) were significantly greater in males than females.

Conclusions

A more horizontal ETa and shorter ETl could be contributory (though not significantly) etiological factors in the development of COM.

Level of Evidence

3b Laryngoscope, 125:2187–2192, 2015
Diagnostic accuracy of history and physical examination in bacterial acute rhinosinusitis
Authors: Autio Timo J. , Koskenkorva Timo , Närkiö Mervi , Leino Tuomo K. , Koivunen Petri , Alho Olli‐Pekka
Published: March 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of symptoms, the symptom progression pattern, and clinical signs in identifying bacterial acute rhinosinusitis (ARS).

Study Design

We conducted an inception cohort study among 50 military recruits with ARS.

Methods

We collected symptoms daily from the onset of symptoms to approximately 10 days. At 9 to 10 days, standardized data on symptoms and physical findings were gathered. A positive culture of maxillary sinus aspirate was considered to be the reference standard for bacterial ARS.

Results

At 9 to 10 days, the presence or deterioration after 5 days of any of the symptoms could not be used to diagnose bacterial ARS. Toothache had an adequate positive likelihood ratio (positive likelihood ratio [LR+] 4.4) but was too rare to be used for screening. In contrast, several physical findings at 9 to 10 days were of more diagnostic use and frequent enough for screening. Moderate or profuse (vs. none/minimal) amount of secretion in nasal passage seen in anterior rhinoscopy satisfactorily either ruled in, if present (LR+ 3.2), or ruled out, if absent (negative likelihood ratio 0.2), bacterial ARS. If any secretion was seen in the posterior pharynx or middle meatus, the probability of bacterial ARS increased markedly (LR+ 5.3 and LR+ 11.0, respectively).

Conclusion

We found symptoms or their change to be of little use in identifying bacterial ARS. In contrast, we observed several clinical findings after 9 to 10 days of symptoms to predict bacterial ARS quite accurately.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 125:1541–1546, 2015
EXECUTIVE CONNECTIONS: HOW RELATIONSHIPS AT THE TOP SHAPE AN ORGANIZATION’S PERFORMANCE
Authors: Carucci Ron A. , Hansen Eric C.
Published: March 2015

As executives rise to positions of power within organizations, the quality of their interpersonal relationships becomes crucial, in the view of Carucci and Hansen. The higher you rise, the more distortions tend to set in. Moreover, you look more distorted to the world. Consider that your reputation matters more and more, and yet it becomes increasingly vulnerable. While you can't control everything, “if you are not deliberate about shaping what others see and how people experience you, chances are the image they form will be one that you do not want.” A leader also embodies his or her own entity, so, for instance; “if you are the head of marketing, you are marketing.”
The Role of Charge Density and Hydrophobicity on the Biocidal Properties of Self‐Protonable Polymeric Materials
Authors: Matrella Simona , Vitiello Carmela , Mella Massimo , Vigliotta Giovanni , Izzo Lorella
Published: March 2015

Intrinsic antimicrobial thermoplastic A(BC)n copolymers (n = 1, 2, 4), where A was poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), BC was a random chain of methylmethacrylate (MMA), and alkyl‐aminoethyl methacrylate (AAEMA), were synthesized and the antimicrobial activity and hemolyticity were evaluated on plaques obtained by casting as a function of the architecture, the N‐substituent groups of the AAEMAs (methyl, ethyl, isopropyl, and tert‐butyl groups) and the hydrophobic/charge density balance. Antimicrobial effectiveness and efficiency is controlled by the surface charge density and by the influence of N‐alkyl groups on the surface morphology. Also interestingly, it is the absence of hemolitytic activity in all copolymers. In presence of Escherichia coli, the A(BC)2 copolymer with 40% of N‐methyl groups is the most efficient, killing 91% of the bacteria already after 1.5 h.
Genetic risk and age in Parkinson's disease: Continuum not stratum
Authors: Nalls Mike A. , Escott‐Price Valentina , Williams Nigel M. , Lubbe Steven , Keller Margaux F. , Morris Huw R. , Singleton Andrew B. ,   on behalf of the International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium (IPDGC)
Published: March 2015

Background

Recent genomewide association study meta‐analyses have identified 28 loci associated with risk of Parkinson's disease (PD). We sought to investigate whether these genetic risk factors are associated with PD age at onset.

Methods

Genetic risk scores from these loci were calculated for 6,249 cases. Linear regression tested associations between cumulative genetic risk and PD age at onset.

Results

Increasing genetic risk scores were associated with earlier age at onset (beta = –0.10, P = 2.92 × 10−8, adjusted r2 = 0.27). Single standard deviation increase in genetic risk score is associated with 37.44 d earlier age at onset. Highest genetic risk was found at 31 to 60 y, onset slightly below average age at onset (AAO).

Conclusions

Common genetic risk factors have a small but consistent association with AAO in PD. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Manganese transport disorder: Novel SLC30A10 mutations and early phenotypes
Authors: Quadri Marialuisa , Kamate Mahesh , Sharma Suvasini , Olgiati Simone , Graafland Josja , Breedveld Guido J. , Kori Indu , Hattiholi Virupaxi , Jain Puneet , Aneja Satinder , Kumar Atin , Gulati Parveen , Goel Medha , Talukdar Bibek , Bonifati Vincenzo
Published: March 2015

Background

SLC30A10 mutations cause an autosomal recessive disorder, characterized by hypermanganesaemia, polycythemia, early‐onset dystonia, paraparesis, or late‐onset parkinsonism, and chronic liver disease. This is the first identified inborn error of Mn metabolism in humans, reported in 10 families thus far.

Methods

Methods for this study consisted of clinical examination, neuroimaging studies (MRI), serum dosages, and SLC30A10 genetic analysis.

Results

We describe early disease manifestations (including videos) in 5 previously unreported Indian children, carrying novel homozygous SLC30A10 mutations. Gait and speech disturbances, falls, dystonias, and central hypotonia were the presenting neurological features, starting within the first 5 years of life. All children also had severe hypermanganesemia, polycythemia, variable degree of liver disease, and marked brain MRI T1 hyperintensities.

Conclusions

Our findings expand the mutational and clinical spectra of this recently recognized disorder. An early diagnosis is warranted, because treatment with manganese‐chelating agents, iron supplementation, or their combination might improve symptoms and prevent progression of this otherwise potentially fatal disease. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Interactions between natural organic matter and organic pollutants as revealed by NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Mazzei Pierluigi , Piccolo Alessandro
Published: March 2015

Natural organic matter (NOM) plays a critical role in regulating the transport and the fate of organic contaminants in the environment. NMR spectroscopy is a powerful technique for the investigation of the sorption and binding mechanisms between NOM and pollutants, as well as their mutual chemical transformations. Despite NMR relatively low sensibility but due to its wide versatility to investigating samples in the liquid, gel, and solid phases, NMR application to environmental NOM–pollutants relations enables the achievement of specific and complementary molecular information. This report is a brief outline of the potentialities of the different NMR techniques and pulse sequences to elucidate the interactions between NOM and organic pollutants, with and without their labeling with nuclei that enhance NMR sensitivity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A dual domain decomposition method for finite element digital image correlation
Authors: Passieux J.‐C. , Périé J.‐N. , Salaün M.
Published: March 2015

The computational burden associated to finite element based digital image correlation methods is mostly due to the inversion of finite element systems and to image interpolations. A non‐overlapping dual domain decomposition method is here proposed to rationalise the computational cost of high resolution finite element digital image correlation measurements when dealing with large images. It consists in splitting the global mesh into submeshes and the reference and deformed states images into subset images. Classic finite element digital image correlation formulations are first written in each subdomain independently. The displacement continuity at the interfaces is enforced by introducing a set of Lagrange multipliers. The problem is then condensed on the interface and solved by a conjugate gradient algorithm. Three different preconditioners are proposed to accelerate its convergence. The proposed domain decomposition method is here exemplified with real high resolution images. It is shown to combine the metrological performances of finite element based digital image correlation and the parallelisation ability of subset based methods. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acceleration of material‐dominated calculations via phase‐space simplicial subdivision and interpolation
Authors: Klusemann B. , Ortiz M.
Published: March 2015

We develop an acceleration method for material‐dominated calculations based on phase‐space simplicial interpolation of the relevant material‐response functions. This process of interpolation constitutes an approximation scheme by which an exact material‐response function is replaced by a sequence of approximating response functions. The terms in the sequence are increasingly accurate, thus ensuring the convergence of the overall solution. The acceleration ratio depends on the dimensionality, the complexity of the deformation, the time‐step size, and the fineness of the phase‐space interpolation. We ascertain these trade‐offs analytically and by recourse to selected numerical tests. The numerical examples with piecewise‐quadratic interpolation in phase space confirm the analytical estimates. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Properties of dicumyl peroxide initiated bismaleimide modified allyl novolac and its molded composites
Authors: Jiang Hao , Wang Rumin , Farhan Shameel , Zheng Shuirong
Published: March 2015

A thermosetting resin system, bismaleimide (BMI) modified allyl novolac (BAN), was developed via reactive blending of formaldehyde and catalyst drop wise to improve the extent of reaction between BMI and phenol‐carbenium ions. For improving the curing behavior and mechanical properties, dicumyl peroxide (DCP) was selected as a novel curing initiator to compare with hexamethylenetetramine (HTMA) which is the most common curing initiator used in the manufacture of phenolic resins. BAN was characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy. Curing behavior with initiators was analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry and glass transition temperature of the cured resins was examined by dynamic mechanical analysis. For evaluating efficiency of the modified system, composite samples using polyvinyl acetyl fiber were molded and tested for flexural properties before and after ageing at 150°C for 1,000 h. The morphology of composite samples was examined by scanning electron microscope, and the effects of the incorporated initiators on the mechanical and thermal properties of composite were investigated. The results indicated that the initiators reduced the curing temperature effectively and improved the curing process. DCP proved to be more effective in crosslinking and heat resistance than HTMA. Meanwhile, the molded composite with DCP showed higher mechanical properties before and after ageing when compared with HTMA curing initiator. Therefore, DCP/BAN resin system with good heat resistance, higher mechanical properties, and better process ability can be applied as matrix resin for the manufacturing of advanced fiber reinforced composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:2260–2271, 2016. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Coarse‐grained molecular‐dynamics simulations of capped crosslinked polymer films: Equilibrium structure and glass‐transition temperature
Authors: Davris T. , Lyulin A.V.
Published: March 2015

We present our recent results from constant temperature‐pressure (NPT) molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of a bead‐spring copolymer model, in which the polymer is confined between two crystalline substrates. Our goal was to study the combined effect of the polymer crosslinking density and the degree of confinement on the glass‐transition temperature and the equilibrium structure of the films. In the direction perpendicular to the substrates, the polymer chains are ordered in layers of increasing density towards the substrates, for all crosslinking densities and the degrees of confinement. In the direction parallel to the substrates, the polymer films display an amorphous structure, just like in the bulk. The glass‐transition temperature increases with confinement and crosslinking density, with the former having a large effect compared to the later. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1012–1019, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of polymer/organoclay composition on morphology and rheological properties of polylactide nanocomposites
Authors: Di Maio Luciano , Garofalo Emilia , Scarfato Paola , Incarnato Loredana
Published: March 2015

In this work the relationships between system composition, polymer–organoclay interaction, morphology and rheological response, under shear, and elongational flow, of different melt compounded polylactic acid (PLA)/organoclay nanocomposites are investigated, with the aim to properly select the better organoclay for a well‐specified PLA grade and processing technology. Polylactide nanocomposites are prepared using two commercial polylactide grades (PLA 4032D and PLA 2003D) and two different organomodified montmorillonites (Cloisite 30B and Nanofil SE3010). FTIR analysis evidences the occurrence of stronger polymer/organoclay interactions for the system PLA4032D+C30B, resulting in a higher clay dispersion and exfoliation levels. Moreover, rheological tests at low shear rates show that, if PLA 2003D is used as polymer matrix (differing from PLA4032D by the presence of a high molecular weight tail), a better dispersed nanomorphology can be obtained with Nanofil SE3010, characterized by a double d‐spacing compared to Cloisite 30B, despite the higher polar character of this latter nanofiller. On the other hand, elongational rheological measurements evidence for NSE3010‐based hybrids a marked extensional thickening, whilst the stronger polar interactions between the phases in both the polylactide grades filled with C30B, determine increments in elongational viscosity, but inhibit the strain hardening behavior. POLYM. COMPOS., 36:1135–1144, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cell wall proteomic of Brachypodium distachyon grains: A focus on cell wall remodeling proteins
Authors: Francin‐Allami Mathilde , Merah Kahina , Albenne Cécile , Rogniaux Hélène , Pavlovic Marija , Lollier Virginie , Sibout Richard , Guillon Fabienne , Jamet Elisabeth , Larré Colette
Published: March 2015

Cell walls play key roles during plant development. Following their deposition into the cell wall, polysaccharides are continually remodeled according to the growth stage and stress environment to accommodate cell growth and differentiation. To date, little is known concerning the enzymes involved in cell wall remodeling, especially in gramineous and particularly in the grain during development. Here, we investigated the cell wall proteome of the grain of Brachypodium distachyon. This plant is a suitable model for temperate cereal crops. Among the 601 proteins identified, 299 were predicted to be secreted. These proteins were distributed into eight functional classes; the class of proteins that act on carbohydrates was the most highly represented. Among these proteins, numerous glycoside hydrolases were found. Expansins and peroxidases, which are assumed to be involved in cell wall polysaccharide remodeling, were also identified. Approximately half of the proteins identified in this study were newly discovered in grain and were not identified in the previous proteome analysis conducted using the culms and leaves of B. distachyon. Therefore, the data obtained from all organs of B. distachyon infer a global cell wall proteome consisting of 460 proteins. At present, this is the most extensive cell wall proteome of a monocot species.
The interactions between mitochondria and sarcoplasmic reticulum and the proteome characterization of mitochondrion‐associated membrane from rabbit skeletal muscle
Authors: Liu Zhouying , Du Xiangning , Deng Jie , Gu Mingyue , Hu Hongli , Gui Miao , Yin Chang‐Cheng , Chang Zhenzhan
Published: March 2015

To obtain a comprehensive understanding of proteins involved in mitochondrion‐sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) linking, a catalog of proteins from mitochondrion‐associated membrane (MAM) of New Zealand white rabbit skeletal muscle were analyzed by an optimized shotgun proteomic method. The membrane fractions were prepared by differential centrifugation and separated by 1D electrophoresis followed by a highly reproducible, automated LC‐MS/MS on the hybrid linear ion trap (LTQ)‐Orbitrap mass spectrometer. By integrating as low as 1% false discovery rate as one of the features for quality control method, 459 proteins were identified from both of the two independent MAM preparations. Protein pI value, molecular weight range, and transmembrane region were calculated using bioinformatics softwares. One hundred one proteins were recognized as membrane proteins. This protein database suggested that the MAM preparations composed of proteins from mitochondrion, SR, and transverse‐tubule. This result indicated mitochondria physically linked with SR in rabbit skeletal muscle, voltage‐dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1), VDAC2, and VDAC3 might participate in formation of the tethers between SR and mitochondria.
Improvements in Functional Exercise Capacity after a Residential Behavioural Change, Diet and Fitness Program for Obese Adults
Authors: Errickson Sadye Paez , Kolotkin Ronette L. , Skidmore Megan Simmons , Endress Gerald , Østbye Truls , Crosby Ross , Eisenson Howard
Published: March 2015

Background and purpose

Obese adults are at an increased risk for mobility‐related problems. National guidelines recommend calorie restrictions and exercise for obese adults as a means to improve functional fitness capacity and to increase mobility. Yet, lifestyle weight loss interventions often fail to measure fitness changes. The aim of this study was to assess whether a 1‐month, intensive behavioural change, diet and fitness intervention for overweight and obese adults would result in statistically significant and clinically meaningful changes in functional exercise.

Methods

A pre–post test design was used in this study. Seventy‐two participants (40 women, 32 men; mean baseline body mass index (BMI) = 42.6 + 9.0; mean age = 45.8 + 16.8) completed a modified 6‐minute walk test (6MWT), performed on a treadmill, at baseline and at end of treatment.

Results

Significant improvements included decreased BMI (2.7 + 1.7 kg m−2, p < 0.001) and increased 6MWT distance (66.4 + 73.0 m, p < 0.001). The 6MWT improved by 66 m on average, a reported clinically meaningful difference. Greater improvements in the 6MWT were significantly correlated with greater weight loss and BMI reduction.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that rehabilitation beyond weight loss may be derived from participation in a brief, intensive behavioural change, diet and fitness programme. Physiotherapists are in a prime position to address the physical and motivational challenges participants face while living with severe obesity: targeting functional exercise capacity is one key strategy for addressing immobility associated with obesity. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Walking Distance as a Predictor of Falls in People With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Nilsagård Ylva , Westerdahl Elisabeth , Wittrin Anna , Gunnarsson Martin
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose

People with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) experience falls, usually when walking and transferring. The aim was to investigate if walking distance and patient overestimate of walking distance are predictors of falls in PwMS.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted, with a single test occasion followed by prospective registration of falls for 3 months. All PwMS in Region Örebro County with a previously registered Expanded Disability Status Scale score between 3.0 and 7.0 in the Swedish MS Registry were invited to participate (n = 149). Altogether, data from 49 PwMS being relapse free for at least 3 months and with a confirmed Expanded Disability Status Scale between 1.5 and 7.0 upon study entry were analysed.

Results

Twenty‐two PwMS (45%) fell during the study period, providing information of 66 falls. Walking distance or overestimate of one's walking distance, as compared with test results, did not predict falls in this MS sample.

Discussion

Walking and standing activities are associated with numerous falls in PwMS. Our data do not clearly support routine measurements of walking distance in assessing individual fall risk. © 2015 The Authors. Physiotherapy Research International published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glyphosate resistance in Echinochloa colona: phenotypic characterisation and quantification of selection intensity
Authors: Goh Sou Sheng , Vila‐Aiub Martin M , Busi Roberto , Powles Stephen B
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND

A population of Echinochloa colona infesting agricultural fields in the northern region of Western Australia evolved glyphosate resistance after 10 years of glyphosate selection. This study identified two phenotypic (susceptible S versus resistant R) lines from within a segregating glyphosate‐resistant population. Estimation of survival, growth and reproductive rates of the phenotypes in response to glyphosate selection helped to characterise the level of resistance, fitness and the selection intensity for glyphosate in this species.

RESULTS

Estimations of LD50 (lethal dose) and GR50 (growth rate) showed an eightfold glyphosate resistance in this population. The resistant index based on the estimation of seed number (SYn50) showed a 13‐fold resistance. As a result of linear combination of plant survival and fecundity rates, plant fitness values of 0.2 and 0.8 were estimated for the S and R phenotypes when exposed to the low dose of 270 g glyphosate ha−1. At the recommended dose of 540 g glyphosate ha−1, fitness significantly decreased (fivefold) in S plants but remained markedly similar (0.7) in plants of the R phenotype. Thus, the calculated selection intensity (SI) at 540 g glyphosate ha−1 was much greater (SI = 17) than at 270 g glyphosate ha−1 (SI = 4).

CONCLUSIONS

The assessment of plant survival and fecundity in response to glyphosate selection in the S and R phenotypes allowed a greater accuracy in the estimation of population fitness of both phenotypes and thus of glyphosate selection intensity in E. colona. The estimation of seed number or mass of phenotypes under herbicide selection is a true ecological measure of resistance with implications for herbicide resistance evolution. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
A guide to private prescribing
Authors: Steele Sarah , Freitag Andreas , McGettigan Patricia , Giovannoni Gavin , Pollock Allyson M
Published: March 2015

Under what circumstances can healthcare professionals issue a private prescription? This article explores the various options.
Regular review is needed for medicines optimisation
Authors: Duerden Martin , Payne Rupert
Published: March 2015

This is the third in a series of articles highlighting points raised in the King's Fund report on polypharmacy. This article highlights issues relating to medicines optimisation.