bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TECXY simulations of multi‐species impurity seeding in DEMO reactor
Authors: Chmielewski P. , Zagórski R. , Ivanova‐Stanik I. , Pericolli V.R.
Published: April 2018

Numerical studies have been performed to investigate the influence of the few impurity species on the heat load reduction and the SOL plasma parameters in the European DEMO reactor. Two‐dimensional multi‐fluid TECXY code has been used to model edge plasma transport described by the classical set of transport equations of multi‐species plasma derived by Braginskii. The TECXY code solves transport equations for few impurity species and all associated ionization stages simultaneously in a two‐dimensional poloidal geometry.

This paper describes the results of numerical simulations of the edge plasma performed for the DEMO reactor with neon and krypton seeding, as well as with a mixture of neon and krypton impurities. We aimed to obtain the energy flux reduction to the target plate at the smallest possible increase of the effective charge value considering gas puffing with various mixtures of impurities. It has been found that the heat load reduction can be improved for a specific mixture of impurity species seeded simultaneously to the edge plasma.
Cytological features of hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder: A case report with immunocytochemical analyzes
Authors: Yoshioka Saya , Ishida Mitsuaki , Okano Kimiaki , Sandoh Kaori , Ebisu Yusuke , Miyasaka Chika , Yamamoto Tomohisa , Ryota Hironori , Satoi Sohei , Tsuta Koji
Published: April 2018

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma is defined as an extrahepatic malignant neoplasm showing morphological and immunohistochemical resemblance of hepatocellular carcinoma. The occurrence of this type of tumor in the gallbladder is extremely rare. In this study, we report the first cytological case of hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the gallbladder. An 80‐year‐old Japanese female was found to have a tumorous lesion in the gallbladder. Papanicolaou smear of the ascites demonstrated a few epithelial cell clusters composed of round to oval neoplastic cells with distinct cell border and large centrally‐located nuclei. Tumor touch smear of the resected tumor revealed the presence of two distinct neoplastic components. The first component was composed of clusters or sheets of epithelial cells with distinct cell border, relatively rich clear cytoplasm, and centrally‐located nuclei, as seen in the ascites specimen. The other component was composed of tall columnar cells with large basally‐oriented nuclei, and glandular formation was noted as well. Immunocytochemical analyzes of the touch smear material demonstrated that the former component was positive for HepPar1, thus it was considered as a hepatoid adenocarcinoma, and the latter component deemed as a typical adenocarcinoma. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination of the resected gallbladder tumor confirmed a diagnosis of hepatoid adenocarcinoma. The characteristic cytological features of hepatoid adenocarcinoma are the presence of sheets or clusters of neoplastic cells with distinct cell border and centrally‐located nuclei. Immunocytochemical analysis for HepPar1 may help its diagnosis. Demonstration of hepatoid adenocarcinoma is important in the cytological specimen because this type of tumor shows an aggressive clinical course.
Copy number gain in recurrent anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement‐lung adenocarcinoma in the pleural effusion
Authors: Abe Hideyuki , Kawahara Akihiko , Azuma Koichi , Murakami Yuichi , Takase Yorihiko , Naito Yoshiki , Akiba Jun
Published: April 2018

Copy number gain (CNG), which includes both numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities, has been investigated in many human cancers. We report a case of recurrence of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement‐positive lung adenocarcinoma with increased cellular pleomorphism and ALK copy number in pleural effusion cytology, and retrospectively compared the recurrent tumor with the primary tumor in terms of cytological features, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The patient was a woman in her 50s who was found to have a 20 × 20 mm sized mass in the lung by chest computed tomography (CT), and was diagnosed with ALK rearrangement‐positive lung adenocarcinoma. The patient was administered ALK inhibitors, such as alectinib, however 4 years later dissemination to the pleural effusion was detected. The smear was of high cellularity, and a predominant population of large‐sized pleomorphic adenocarcinoma cells with prominent nucleoli was observed. On FISH and IHC using cell block material, ALK rearrangement and ALK protein expression were identified again, along with recurrent ALK adenocarcinoma cells, which were observed to have an increased ALK copy number compared with the primary ALK adenocarcinoma cells. On the other hand, there was no discrepancy in the expression of various biomarkers between the primary and corresponding recurrent tumor. The present case showed a marked difference in cytological findings and CNG between the primary and recurrent tumor, indicating that DNA aneuploidy may be related to morphological change such as transformation to bizarre pleomorphic cells in patients receiving alectinib treatment.
Germ layers, the neural crest and emergent organization in development and evolution
Authors: Hall Brian K.
Published: April 2018

Discovered in chick embryos by Wilhelm His in 1868 and named the neural crest by Arthur Milnes Marshall in 1879, the neural crest cells that arise from the neural folds have since been shown to differentiate into almost two dozen vertebrate cell types and to have played major roles in the evolution of such vertebrate features as bone, jaws, teeth, visceral (pharyngeal) arches, and sense organs. I discuss the discovery that ectodermal neural crest gave rise to mesenchyme and the controversy generated by that finding; the germ layer theory maintained that only mesoderm could give rise to mesenchyme. A second topic of discussion is germ layers (including the neural crest) as emergent levels of organization in animal development and evolution that facilitated major developmental and evolutionary change. The third topic is gene networks, gene co‐option, and the evolution of gene‐signaling pathways as key to developmental and evolutionary transitions associated with the origin and evolution of the neural crest and neural crest cells.
Hepatic CREBZF couples insulin to lipogenesis by inhibiting insig activity and contributes to hepatic steatosis in diet‐induced insulin‐resistant mice
Authors: Zhang Feifei , Hu Zhimin , Li Gaopeng , Huo Shaofeng , Ma Fengguang , Cui Aoyuan , Xue Yaqian , Han Yamei , Gong Qi , Gao Jing , Bian Hua , Meng Zhuoxian , Wu Haifu , Long Gang , Tan Yi , Zhang Yan , Lin Xu , Gao Xin , Xu Aimin , Li Yu
Published: April 2018

Insulin is critical for the regulation of de novo fatty acid synthesis, which converts glucose to lipid in the liver. However, how insulin signals are transduced into the cell and then regulate lipogenesis remains to be fully understood. Here, we identified CREB/ATF bZIP transcription factor (CREBZF) of the activating transcription factor/cAMP response element‐binding protein (ATF/CREB) gene family as a key regulator for lipogenesis through insulin‐Akt signaling. Insulin‐induced gene 2a (Insig‐2a) decreases during refeeding, allowing sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c to be processed to promote lipogenesis; but the mechanism of reduction is unknown. We show that Insig‐2a inhibition is mediated by insulin‐induced CREBZF. CREBZF directly inhibits transcription of Insig‐2a through association with activating transcription factor 4. Liver‐specific knockout of CREBZF causes an induction of Insig‐2a and Insig‐1 and resulted in repressed lipogenic program in the liver of mice during refeeding or upon treatment with streptozotocin and insulin. Moreover, hepatic CREBZF deficiency attenuates hepatic steatosis in high‐fat, high‐sucrose diet–fed mice. Importantly, expression levels of CREBZF are increased in livers of diet‐induced insulin resistance or genetically obese ob/ob mice and humans with hepatic steatosis, which may underscore the potential role of CREBZF in the development of sustained lipogenesis in the liver under selective insulin resistance conditions. Conclusion: These findings uncover an unexpected mechanism that couples changes in extracellular hormonal signals to hepatic lipid homeostasis; disrupting CREBZF function may have the therapeutic potential for treating fatty liver disease and insulin resistance. (Hepatology 2018).
Redefining normal hemoglobin and anemia in singleton and twin pregnancies
Authors: Shinar Shiri , Shapira Udi , Maslovitz Sharon
Published: April 2018

Objective

To assess the benefit of a hemoglobin cutoff of 105 g/L as a trigger for anemia evaluation during the second trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional study, conducted at a health center in Israel between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2015, included pregnant women with hemoglobin values below 105 g/L who were assessed for anemia. Anemia workup included complete blood count, serum ferritin and vitamin B12 measurements, and hemoglobin electrophoresis. The primary outcome was the incidence of nondilutional anemia, defined by a positive workup, across predefined hemoglobin thresholds. Receiver operating characteristic curves were created to identify the best hemoglobin threshold for predicting anemia, mandating further evaluation.

Results

In total, 651 women with singleton and 300 women with twin pregnancies were evaluated for nondilutional anemia. Of these, 340 (52.2%) and 127 (42.3%) women, respectively, had positive workup results. The most common cause was iron deficiency. The hemoglobin values that best predicted positive workup results were 100 g/L in singleton pregnancies and 97 g/L in twin pregnancies.

Conclusion

Anemia evaluation could be unnecessary in pregnant women with a hemoglobin value of 100–105 g/L. Consideration should be given to redefining anemia in singleton and twin pregnancies.
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN MODEL‐BASED SYSTEMS ENGINEERING METHODOLOGIES AND THEIR EFFECTIVE PRACTICE – A CASE STUDY ON NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS SYSTEMS ENGINEERING
Authors: Navas Juan , Tannery Philippe , Bonnet Stephane , Voirin Jean‐Luc
Published: April 2018

This article presents a case study on applying model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) methodologies under real‐life conditions. We present how engineers tailored existing MBSE methods and tools to both address the complexity factors of nuclear power plants engineering, and to contribute to the comprehensiveness of the design and safety assessment. We also provide feedback on the application of MBSE approaches and their key benefits on projects’ execution.
ON THE USE OF PERSPECTIVE IN MANAGING COMPLEXITY
Authors: Ryan Michael J.
Published: April 2018

Most research into complexity has not directly addressed the fundamental issue that the complexity of any particular matter has a significant subjective component in which the degree of complexity depends on available frames of reference. Yet, researchers can readily show that the perceived complexity of an entity under consideration can vary dramatically if they take different perspectives. This paper illustrates that it is relatively easy in any context to state that context in such a manner as to cause confusion by establishing a perspective that incorporates all dimensions simultaneously in a two‐dimensional view. Further, the article shows that it is equally possible in many cases (and certainly in design), by choosing an appropriate view, to reduce the complexity. Finally, the article shows the utility of such an approach when designing systems‐of‐systems (SoS), in which the establishment of the perspective of system centricity is essential for the specification and acquisition of the constituent systems of an SoS.
DEMONSTRATED BENEFITS OF A NASCENT DIGITAL TWIN
Authors: West Timothy D. , Blackburn Mark
Published: April 2018

After utilizing Gartner's hype cycle to frame the general state of the ongoing digital transformation within the aerospace industry, this paper considers two attributes that should be considered in the creation of every digital model: (1) how accurately can we make it, and (2) how accurately should we make it? After concluding that a truly perfect digital clone is both infeasible and impractical in the near term, the paper highlights a variety of successes (i.e., 30 percent cost reductions and 25 percent weight reductions) that are already being achieved in industry and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) through imperfect Digital Twin models and related “disruptive” technologies.
Rouleaux red blood cells splitting in microscopic thin blood smear images via local maxima, circles drawing, and mapping with original RBCs
Authors: Rehman Amjad , Abbas Naveed , Saba Tanzila , Mahmood Toqeer , Kolivand Hoshang
Published: April 2018

Splitting the rouleaux RBCs from single RBCs and its further subdivision is a challenging area in computer‐assisted diagnosis of blood. This phenomenon is applied in complete blood count, anemia, leukemia, and malaria tests. Several automated techniques are reported in the state of art for this task but face either under or over splitting problems. The current research presents a novel approach to split Rouleaux red blood cells (chains of RBCs) precisely, which are frequently observed in the thin blood smear images. Accordingly, this research address the rouleaux splitting problem in a realistic, efficient and automated way by considering the distance transform and local maxima of the rouleaux RBCs. Rouleaux RBCs are splitted by taking their local maxima as the centres to draw circles by mid‐point circle algorithm. The resulting circles are further mapped with single RBC in Rouleaux to preserve its original shape. The results of the proposed approach on standard data set are presented and analyzed statistically by achieving an average recall of 0.059, an average precision of 0.067 and F‐measure 0.063 are achieved through ground truth with visual inspection.
Catalyst‐free Synthesis of Tetrahydroacenaphtho[1,2‐b]indolone Derivatives via One‐pot Four‐component Reaction
Authors: Bayat Mohammad , Amiri Zeinab
Published: April 2018

A simple and efficient one‐pot synthesis of tetrahydroacenaphtho[1,2‐b]indolone derivatives via four‐component reaction of 5,5‐dimethylcyclohexane‐1,3‐dione (dimedone), arylamines, acenaphthoquinone, and active methylene compounds under catalyst‐free conditions is described. The reactions were carried out under mild conditions using ethanol as solvent. Advantages of this method include simple experimental and workup procedure, readily available starting materials, and high yields.
Making a master filterer: Ontogeny of specialized filtering plates in silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix)
Authors: Cohen Karly Elizabeth , Hernandez L. Patricia
Published: April 2018

Filter feeding fishes possess several morphological adaptations necessary to capture and concentrate small particulate matter from the water column. Filter feeding teleosts typically employ elongated and tightly packed gill rakers with secondary bony or epithelial modifications that increase filtering efficiency. The gill rakers of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, silver carp, are anatomically distinct from and more complex than the filtering apparatus of other teleostean fishes. The silver carp filtering apparatus is composed of biserial, fused filtering plates used to capture particles ranging in size from 4 to 80 μm. Early in ontogeny, at 15–25 mm standard length (SL), silver carp gill rakers are reminiscent of other more stereotypical teleostean rakers, characterized by individual lanceolate rakers that are tightly packed along the entirety of the branchial arches. At 30 mm SL, secondary epithelial projections and concomitant dermal ossification begin to stitch together individual gill rakers. During later juvenile stages, dermal bone further modifies the individual gill rakers and creates a bony scaffold that supports the now fully fused and porous epithelium. By adulthood, the stitching of bone and complete fusion of the overlying epithelium creates rigid filtering plates with morphologically distinct faces. The inner face of the plates is organized into a net‐like matrix while the outer face has a sponge‐like appearance comprised of differently sized pores. Here, we present morphological data from an ontogenetic series of the filtering apparatus within silver carp. These data inform hypotheses regarding both how these gill raker plates may have evolved from a more basal condition, as well as how this novel architecture allows this species to feed on exceedingly small phytoplankton, particles that represent a greater filtering challenge to the typical anatomy of the gill rakers of fishes.
CSR initiative characteristics and employee engagement: An impact‐based perspective
Authors: Opoku‐Dakwa Akwasi , Chen Chao C. , Rupp Deborah E.
Published: April 2018

Though corporations depend on the work of employees to achieve important humanitarian and environmental outcomes, research on employee engagement in corporate social responsibility initiatives (CSRIs) remains limited and fragmented. Building on existing studies, we develop a theoretical model explaining when and why CSRIs, on the basis of their distinctive characteristics, would be engaging to employees. Adopting the lens of social cognitive theory, we position employees as potential agents of social change, whose efforts are enabled through CSRIs that are expected to meaningfully impact stakeholders (including the employees themselves, their employing organizations, and external beneficiaries). We first model CSRIs in terms of their focus characteristics, which reflect the different types of goals that CSRIs can have. We then explain how these CSRI characteristics promote employee engagement through anticipated impacts that are commensurate with employees' personal expectations. Lastly, we explain how these effects depend on organizational support for the CSRI, which shapes employees' beliefs about the collective efficacy of the organization to achieve the CSRI goals, and on employees' identities, which determine the types of CSRI impacts that are more meaningful and therefore more conducive to engagement. We conclude with a discussion of implications for research and practice.
Achieving high performance at Zambia's Competition and Consumer Protection Commission
Authors: de Waal André
Published: April 2018

In its quest to become a prosperous middle‐income nation by 2030, Zambia has realized the need to create a strong economy and increase its gross domestic product. One way to achieve that goal is to create high‐performance organizations. The application of a five‐part high‐performance organization framework to Zambia's Competition and Consumer Protection Commission helped the government agency significantly improve its financial and operational performance in two years, while enhancing two‐way communications, employee morale, customer service, and its reputation for efficiency and integrity.
Managing the emotional impact of disaster relief: The Gendarmerie Nationale and the crash of Germanwings Flight 952
Authors: Le Poder Laurence
Published: April 2018

Problems stemming from work‐related stress are increasingly being recognized as an important economic issue that involves both direct and indirect costs and can affect a company's performance and reputation. As a result, many organizations have developed strategies to deal with trauma‐related risks to their employees. But what can be done for those whose very job, day in and day out, is to intervene in situations that can lead to profound emotional shock, such as law enforcement officials, firefighters, medics, and relief workers? The approach taken by the Gendarmerie Nationale, one of two national police forces in France, in dealing with the crash of Germanwings Flight 952 in southern France on March 24, 2015, shows that even organizations with a tradition of stoic fearlessness can benefit by incorporating the acceptance of emotional distress in their work and developing procedures to address it.
Retronasal olfaction in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Othieno Florence , Schlosser Rodney J. , Storck Kristina A. , Rowan Nicholas R. , Smith Timothy L. , Soler Zachary M.
Published: April 2018

Objective

The goals of this study were to assess retronasal olfaction in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and describe clinical factors that influence retronasal olfaction. This study sought to investigate the influence of retronasal olfaction on patient‐perceived outcomes and examine the relationship between retronasal and orthonasal olfaction.

Methods

Retronasal olfactory function was tested using odorized powders in the oral cavity, whereas Sniffin' Sticks test (Burghart Instruments, Wedel, Germany) were used to assess orthonasal function prospectively in 69 adult CRS patients. Endoscopic evaluation of the olfactory cleft was scored using the Olfactory Cleft Endoscopy Scale (OCES). Several quality‐of‐life (QOL) instruments relating to sinonasal, olfactory, and chemosensory functions were used to assess the interactions between patient‐reported outcome measures and retronasal olfaction.

Results

There was strong correlation between retronasal and total orthonasal olfaction scores (r = 0.77, P < 0.001) as well as retronasal scores with orthonasal subscores. Retronasal scores were worse in patients with nasal polyposis (P = 0.002), asthma (P = 0.04), and aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) (P = 0.02), whereas OCES was the only independent predictor of retronasal olfaction (r = −0.42, P < 0.001). Significant correlation existed between retronasal olfaction and olfactory‐specific QOL and chemosensory smell scores.

Conclusion

Few studies have examined retronasal olfaction in CRS patients. In this cohort, CRS patients demonstrated deficits in retronasal olfaction, with worse scores in patients with nasal polyposis, asthma, and AERD. Retronasal olfaction scores correlate with degree of inflammation of the olfactory cleft. Retronasal olfaction correlated strongly with orthonasal olfaction and patient‐reported smell and taste metrics, although orthonasal olfaction may have a stronger correlation with these metrics.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 2437–2442, 2018
Long‐term outcomes in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma with adjuvant and salvage radiotherapy after surgery
Authors: Katsoulakis Evangelia , Leeman Jonathan E. , Lok Benjamin H. , Shi Weiji , Zhang Zhigang , Tsai Jillian C. , McBride Sean M. , Sherman Eric J. , Cohen Marc , Wong Richard , Ganly Ian , Lee Nancy Y. , Riaz Nadeem
Published: April 2018

Objective

Early‐stage oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) represents a heterogeneous group of patients, and locoregional recurrence rates are as high as 25% with surgery alone. Radiotherapy (RT) is typically reserved as part of salvage multimodality therapy after salvage surgery because it is generally thought that there is no significant detriment to salvage therapy. Our aim was to examine outcomes for recurrent OCSCC treated with salvage surgery and radiation and compare them to outcomes for patients treated with adjuvant postoperative RT upfront.

Methods

We identified 425 patients with OCSCC treated with postoperative RT at our institution. The 5‐year rates of local failure, locoregional failure (LRF), survival, and distant metastasis (DM) were the main outcome measures. We performed a landmark analysis and examined the same outcomes in the adjuvant versus salvage cohorts using Cox proportional hazards and Fine‐Gray competing risk method.

Results

The adjuvant cohort had higher tumor (T) (P < 0.0001) and nodal (N) (P < 0.0001) stage than the salvage cohort's stage at initial presentation. On multivariate analysis, a strategy of salvage RT experienced poorer overall survival (OS) compared to upfront adjuvant RT (hazard ratio [HR] 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.26–2.70; P = 0.002). Moreover, salvage surgery followed by RT patients experienced increasing risk of LRF (HR 1.56; 95% CI, 1.18–2.06; P = 0.002) and (DM) (HR 1.53; 95% CI, 1.08–2.17; P = 0.02) on multivariate analysis. Additional analysis was performed excluding salvage cohort with advanced disease at initial presentation (T3–T4 and N2). Salvage RT treatment selection for early‐stage OCSCC continued to experience significantly poorer OS as compared to adjuvant RT (HR 1.48; 95% CI, 1.002–2.19; P = 0.049).

Conclusion

Early‐stage OCSCC patients who are observed and experienced recurrence requiring salvage therapy (surgery and RT) have worse oncologic outcomes than locally advanced patients receiving upfront adjuvant RT. Prospective randomized studies are needed to identify high‐risk subset of early‐stage OCSCC comparing adjuvant RT versus observation, followed by salvage surgery and RT at recurrence.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 2539–2545, 2018
Shallow ponds are biogeochemically distinct habitats in salt marsh ecosystems
Authors: Spivak Amanda C. , Gosselin Kelsey M. , Sylva Sean P.
Published: April 2018

Runaway expansion of shallow ponds can catalyze the conversion of vegetated marshes into open water environments. Predicting how this transition affects ecosystem functioning is difficult because little is known about pond biogeochemistry. We characterized sediment organic matter sources and transformations in three ponds with different plant communities, over alternating periods of tidal isolation and flushing, during summer and fall, using a combination of stable isotopes, lipid biomarkers, and benthic fluxes. Sediment respiration rates (1.66 ± 0.09 mmol C m−2 d−1 to 28.53 ± 7.76 mmol C m−2 d−1) were comparable to shallow estuaries and driven by sulfate reduction. Rates varied across ponds, reflecting differences in summertime Ruppia maritima and macroalgae abundances, but were similar between seasons. Interactions between aboveground plant and sediment bacterial communities translated into distinct biogeochemical processes across the three ponds. Tidal isolation and summer weather intensified plant and bacterial community effects on pond carbon dynamics, resulting in algal biomass and lipid δ13C values that were 3–12‰ enriched, compared to nearby habitats. Surface sediment organic matter mainly derived from pond microalgae and was compositionally distinct from tidal creeks and marshes. Surprisingly, sediment bacteria were not tightly coupled to benthic microalgae but decomposed multiple carbon sources in surface sediments and became increasingly reliant on buried peat at deeper horizons. Pond development over time could largely be explained by sediment respiration and the simultaneous accretion of the surrounding marsh platform. The role of decomposition in pond expansion is consistent with previous assessments based on whole‐pond metabolism rates. Consequently, future pond expansion could alter ecosystem biogeochemistry and reduce carbon storage.
Pediatric cirrhotic cardiomyopathy: Impact on liver transplant outcomes
Authors: Junge Norman , Junge Claudia , Schröder Julian , Pfister Eva‐Doreen , Leiskau Christoph , Hohmann Dagmar , Beerbaum Philipp , Baumann Ulrich
Published: April 2018

In adults, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy (CCM) has a significant incidence and impact on liver transplantation. For pediatric liver transplantation (pLT), data on liver‐induced cardiac changes are scarce, and in particular, the comparison between cirrhotic and noncirrhotic liver disease has not been investigated. We retrospectively evaluated cardiac changes associated with CCM by echocardiography and 12‐lead electrocardiogram in 198 pLT‐candidates (median age 4.1 years) 4.2 before and 12 months after pLT. Results were correlated with the stage of liver fibrosis and cholestasis before transplantation. The left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVIDd) z score, left ventricular mass z score, and left ventricular mass index were significantly higher in cirrhotic patients (‐0.10 versus 0.98, P < 0.001; ‐1.55 versus ‐0.42, P = 0.001; 78.99 versus 125.64 g/m2, P = 0.001, respectively) compared with children with noncirrhotic liver disease. Pathological z scores (>2SDS) for the LVIDd occurred more frequently in cirrhotic patients compared with patients with noncirrhotic liver disease (31/169 versus 1/29; P = 0.03) and were significantly associated with cholestasis. All observed cardiac changes were reversible 1 year after pLT. Pathological LVIDd z scores correlated highly with intensive care unit (ICU) stay (9.6 days versus 17.1 days, respectively, P = 0.002) but not with patient survival pre‐LT or post‐LT. In contrast to other studies, prolonged QTc time was not associated with liver cirrhosis in our patients. In conclusion, CCM‐associated cardiac changes in pLT candidates with cirrhotic liver disease are frequent, mild, and associated with cholestasis and reversible after pLT. They may impact peritransplant care and posttransplant hospitalization time. Further prospective evaluation is warranted. In particular, for QTc time prolongation etiological factors, possible protective effects of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment and the use as a screening parameter for CCM should be verified. Liver Transplantation 24 820–830 2018 AASLD.
On stability of fixed point inclusion for multivalued type contraction mappings in dislocatedb‐metric spaces with application
Authors: Phiangsungnoen Supak , Kumam Poom
Published: April 2018

In this paper, we introduce and prove fixed point results for some classes of ℑ‐contraction mappings on Pompeiu‐Hausdorff functionals in dislocatedb‐metric spaces. We illustrate an example and graph to support our main results. We present the generalized Ulam‐Hyers stability of fixed point inclusion. Finally, we have applied our results to find a solution of Fredholm‐type integral inclusion in dislocatedb‐metric spaces. Our results generalize some recent results and extend several theorems in the literature.
A “BRD” in the Hand Worthy of Four in the Trap: Validation of Optimal Bycatch Reduction Device (BRD) Size to Maximize Blue Crab Callinectes sapidus Entry and Diamondback Terrapin Malaclemys terrapin Exclusion Through Theoretical Modeling and Application
Authors: Arendt Michael D. , Schwenter Jeffrey A. , Dingle Julie , Evans Christopher A. , Waldrop Ellen , Czwartacki Brooke , Fowler Amy E. , Whitaker J. David
Published: April 2018

Wire-mesh traps are extensively used to harvest blue crabs Callinectes sapidus but also capture over 40 other species. Numerous studies have evaluated bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) to reduce the incidental capture of one species, the diamondback terrapin Malaclemys terrapin, since 1992. Despite decades of research, widespread adoption of BRDs as a conservation action has not occurred, which partly stems from seemingly conflicting results from a multitude of BRD designs along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts. In this study, we developed a simple scoring system to assess the probability of trap entry by legal-sized (≥12.7-cm carapace width; n = 736) blue crabs as well as trap exclusion of diamondback terrapins (n = 985) based on morphometric measurements for both species. Probability of entry or exclusion for each legal-sized blue crab and diamondback terrapin was assessed for each of 8,196 theoretical BRD sizes encompassing the range of BRD widths and heights actually tested since 1992. Predictive relationships for trap entry or exclusion for each theoretical BRD size were evaluated as a function of three geometric BRD attributes: BRD area (cm2), diagonal BRD opening (cm), and the ratio of BRD width to height. Comparison of observed (35 data sets) versus predicted (entry or exclusion probabilities for BRDs) catches for both species revealed that BRDs have performed as predicted for legal-sized blue crab catch (slope = 0.99; >81,000 crabs) but have captured considerably fewer diamondback terrapins than predicted based on BRD size alone (slope = 0.28; 1,430 diamondback terrapins). Analyses also substantiated superior (i.e., >30% better) diamondback terrapin exclusion potential for a BRD we designed that measured 5.1–6.4 cm (height) × 7.3 cm (width). Increasing the width of this BRD by 0.4 cm would also achieve a 99% capture probability for legal-sized blue crabs, comparable to other widely tested and marketed BRD designs.
Accumulating Data to Optimally Predict Obesity Treatment (ADOPT): Recommendations from the Biological Domain
Authors: Rosenbaum Michael , Agurs‐Collins Tanya , Bray Molly S. , Hall Kevin D. , Hopkins Mark , Laughlin Maren , MacLean Paul S. , Maruvada Padma , Savage Cary R. , Small Dana M. , Stoeckel Luke
Published: April 2018

Background

The responses to behavioral, pharmacological, or surgical obesity treatments are highly individualized. The Accumulating Data to Optimally Predict obesity Treatment (ADOPT) project provides a framework for how obesity researchers, working collectively, can generate the evidence base needed to guide the development of tailored, and potentially more effective, strategies for obesity treatment.

Objectives

The objective of the ADOPT biological domain subgroup is to create a list of high‐priority biological measures for weight‐loss studies that will advance the understanding of individual variability in response to adult obesity treatments. This list includes measures of body composition, energy homeostasis (energy intake and output), brain structure and function, and biomarkers, as well as biobanking procedures, which could feasibly be included in most, if not all, studies of obesity treatment. The recommended high‐priority measures are selected to balance needs for sensitivity, specificity, and/or comprehensiveness with feasibility to achieve a commonality of usage and increase the breadth and impact of obesity research.

Significance

The accumulation of data on key biological factors, along with behavioral, psychosocial, and environmental factors, can generate a more precise description of the interplay and synergy among them and their impact on treatment responses, which can ultimately inform the design and delivery of effective, tailored obesity treatments.
Accumulating Data to Optimally Predict Obesity Treatment (ADOPT) Core Measures: Psychosocial Domain
Authors: Sutin Angelina R. , Boutelle Kerri , Czajkowski Susan M. , Epel Elissa S. , Green Paige A. , Hunter Christine M. , Rice Elise L. , Williams David M. , Young‐Hyman Deborah , Rothman Alexander J.
Published: April 2018

Background

Within the Accumulating Data to Optimally Predict obesity Treatment (ADOPT) Core Measures Project, the psychosocial domain addresses how psychosocial processes underlie the influence of obesity treatment strategies on weight loss and weight maintenance. The subgroup for the psychosocial domain identified an initial list of high‐priority constructs and measures that ranged from relatively stable characteristics about the person (cognitive function, personality) to dynamic characteristics that may change over time (motivation, affect).

Objectives

This paper describes (a) how the psychosocial domain fits into the broader model of weight loss and weight maintenance as conceptualized by ADOPT; (b) the guiding principles used to select constructs and measures for recommendation; (c) the high‐priority constructs recommended for inclusion; (d) domain‐specific issues for advancing the science; and (e) recommendations for future research.

Significance

The inclusion of similar measures across trials will help to better identify how psychosocial factors mediate and moderate the weight loss and weight maintenance process, facilitate research into dynamic interactions with factors in the other ADOPT domains, and ultimately improve the design and delivery of effective interventions.
π‐Plasmon absorbance films of carboxylic functionalized CNTs coupled with renewable PGP platforms
Authors: Fares Mohammad M.
Published: April 2018

π‐Plasmon absorbance films of carboxylic functionalized multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) coupled with renewable and recycled polycaprolactone grafted pectin (PGP) platforms as successful alternative for ordinary nondegradable platforms were investigated. Characterization of the synthesized carboxylic functionalized CNTs was performed using 1H NMR and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared for structural identification, thermogravimetric analysis and derivative thermogravimetric analysis for thermal stability, and X‐ray powder diffraction for crystal structure, whereas the characterization of prepared PGP was done by means of attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared for chemical structure, differential scanning calorimetry for melting endotherms of polycaprolactone and high crystalline structure of PGP, and thermogravimetric analysis and derivative thermogravimetric analysis for thermal stability of PGP. Fabrication of water‐dispersed carboxylic functionalized CNTs coupled with PGP films was performed by casting technique in the presence of Ca2+ as cross‐linker. The thin films were tested for π‐plasmon absorbance using UV‐Vis spectrometry. Different fractions of carboxylic functionalized CNTs and PGP films demonstrated π‐plasmon absorbance broad peaks at λmax = 232 nm, which corresponded to 5.36 eV. The fabrication of novel films from renewable recycled PGP platform and advanced carboxylic functionalized CNTs properties will be the key features for many of next forthcoming technologies. The PGP considered as environment‐friendly and easily degradable platforms will be a successful alternative for conventional nondegradable electronic platforms, and water‐dispersed carboxylic functionalized CNTs with advanced properties will be finding accelerating executive applications.
Temporal trends of splenectomy in pediatric hospitalizations with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Bhatt Neel S. , Bhatt Parth , Donda Keyur , Dapaah‐Siakwan Fredrick , Chaudhari Riddhi , Linga Vijay Gandhi , Patel Bhumi , Lekshminarayanan Anusha , Bhaskaran Smita , Zaid‐Kaylani Samer , Badawy Sherif M.
Published: April 2018

Background

Splenectomy is considered an effective treatment for immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) with 70–80% response rate. However, its current use is limited in children with ITP. It is unclear if the rates of splenectomy have changed over time. Using a large nationally representative database, we aimed to study the trends of splenectomy in pediatric hospitalizations with ITP, and the factors associated with splenectomy during these encounters.

Methods

Using National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS), and international classification of diseases (9th revision), clinical modification (ICD‐9‐CM) codes, we studied pediatric ITP hospitalizations with occurrence of total splenectomy between 2005 and 2014.

Results

Out of 37,844 weighted ITP hospitalizations from 2005 to 2014; total splenectomy was performed in 954 encounters. Splenectomy rate declined over time (3.4% [2005–2006] to 1.6% [2013–2014], P < 0.001) with the younger age (≤5 years) having the most notable decline (0.91% [2005–2006] to 0.14% [2013–2014], P < 0.001). Splenectomy had higher odds of being performed electively than non‐electively (odds ratio [OR]: 19.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.06–31.02, P < 0.001). Encounters with intracranial bleed were associated with the occurrence of splenectomy (OR: 17.87, 95% CI: 5.07–62.97, P < 0.001). Intracranial bleed (P < 0.001), gastrointestinal bleed (P < 0.01), sepsis (P < 0.001), and thrombosis (P < 0.001) were associated with longer length of stay and higher cost of hospitalization.

Conclusions

Overall, splenectomy rates consistently declined over time. Intracranial hemorrhage during hospitalizations with ITP was associated with occurrence of splenectomy. Future studies should continue to reevaluate the rates of splenectomy in pediatric ITP in the presence of various second‐line pharmacologic agents.
Pediatric Early Warning Systems aid in triage to intermediate versus intensive care for pediatric oncology patients in resource‐limited hospitals
Authors: Agulnik Asya , Nadkarni Anisha , Mora Robles Lupe Nataly , Soberanis Vasquez Dora Judith , Mack Ricardo , Antillon‐Klussmann Federico , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos
Published: April 2018

Pediatric oncology patients hospitalized in resource‐limited settings are at high risk for clinical deterioration resulting in mortality. Intermediate care units (IMCUs) provide a cost‐effective alternative to pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). Inappropriate IMCU triage, however, can lead to poor outcomes and suboptimal resource utilization. In this study, we sought to characterize patients with clinical deterioration requiring unplanned transfer to the IMCU in a resource‐limited pediatric oncology hospital. Patients requiring subsequent early PICU transfer had longer PICU length of stay. PEWS results prior to IMCU transfer were higher in patients requiring early PICU transfer, suggesting PEWS can aid in triage between IMCU and PICU care.
Compatibilization of polypropylene–polyethylene blends
Authors: Vervoort S. , den Doelder J. , Tocha E. , Genoyer J. , Walton K.L. , Hu Y. , Munro J. , Jeltsch K.
Published: April 2018

Many plastic waste recycle streams are blends of various types of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). When reprocessing these blends into products it is difficult to obtain good mechanical and optical properties due to the immiscibility of the components. Blend morphology is one of the governing factors for these properties. Therefore morphology control is a key challenge when turning plastic waste into valuable materials. In this work, the effect of a novel polymeric compatibilizer on the morphology of PP–PE blends was investigated via rheological and scanning electron microscopy experiments. Homopolymer PP was combined with PE of varying comonomer level. In addition to the effect of including compatibilizer, the effect of blend ratio and viscosity ratio is discussed. It was found that very fine dispersions could be obtained when including the compatibilizing polymer for all studied systems. The blend rheology was compared with predictions from empirical and physics‐inspired mixing rules. The difference between measured and predicted rheology is expected to provide insight into the structure of the various blend systems. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:460–465, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Development and performance analysis of static mixing nozzle for injection molding of thermoset elastomers
Authors: Rochman Arif , Zahra Keith
Published: April 2018

In this study, various static melt mixers inside the nozzle chamber, together forming a mixing nozzle, were developed. Their performance in injection molding process was investigated using three thermoset elastomer materials with significantly different viscosity, namely nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), ethylene propylene‐diene monomer (EPDM) and fluorocarbon (FKM). The aim of this study was to minimize one of the drawbacks in injection molding resulted from the relatively short plasticizing screw. Using a short plasticizing screw, polymers having high concentrations of additives, such as thermoset elastomers, might not mix homogeneously within the short time period during the plasticizing stage. The use of these melt mixers resulted in better homogeneity and properties of the molded parts despite a curing time reduction of 10 s. This was due to the increase in mixing and shearing introduced a higher rate of crosslinking formation in the molded parts. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:521–527, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Role of adsorbed water on PEEK surfaces prior to − and after − atmospheric plasma activation
Authors: Gravis David , Poncin‐Epaillard Fabienne , Coulon Jean‐François
Published: April 2018

Poly‐ether‐ether‐ketone (PEEK) surfaces have been treated by atmospheric pressure plasma to increase their surface free energies − and hence, their adhesion potential towards metallic coatings as assessed by pull‐off test. Firstly, we show that adsorbed water on the polymer surface prior to plasma treatment acts as a shielding barrier against activation of the surface. This shielding effect is annealed by either a second plasma scan or by drying the surface before activation. Secondly, the relative humidity rate seems to be the main aging parameter on plasma‐treated surfaces. Our study reveals that high values of surface energies, and thus adhesion potential, can be assured and maintained for months by storing the material in a dry atmosphere before and after treatment.
Seeding and cross‐seeding fibrillation of N‐terminal prion protein peptides PrP(120–144)
Authors: Wang Yiming , Hall Carol K.
Published: April 2018

Prion diseases are infectious neurodegenerative diseases that are capable of cross‐species transmission, thus arousing public health concerns. Seed‐templating propagation of prion protein is believed to underlie prion cross‐species transmission pathology. Understanding the molecular fundamentals of prion propagation is key to unravelling the pathology of prion diseases. In this study, we use coarse‐grained molecular dynamics to investigate the seeding and cross‐seeding aggregation of three prion protein fragments PrP(120–144) originating from human (Hu), bank vole (BV), and Syrian hamster (SHa). We find that the seed accelerates the aggregation of the monomer peptides by eliminating the lag phase. The monomer aggregation kinetics are mainly determined by the structure of the seed. The stronger the hydrophobic residues on the seed associate with each other, the higher the probability that the seed recruits monomer peptides to its surface/interface. For cross‐seeding aggregation, we show that Hu has a strong tendency to adopt the conformation of the BV seed and vice versa; the Hu and BV monomers have a weak tendency to adopt the conformation of the SHa seed. These two findings are consistent with Apostol et al.'s experimental findings on PrP(138–143) and partially consistent with Jones et al.'s finding on PrP(23–144). We also identify several conformational mismatches when SHa cross‐seeds BV and Hu peptides, indicating the existence of a cross‐seeding barrier between SHa and the other two sequences. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanism of seed‐templating aggregation of prion protein fragments underlying the sequence‐dependent transmission barrier in prion diseases.
Weak IgG self‐ and hetero‐association characterized by fluorescence analytical ultracentrifugation
Authors: Yang Danlin , Correia John J. , Stafford III Walter F. , Roberts Christopher J. , Singh Sanjaya , Hayes David , Kroe‐Barrett Rachel , Nixon Andrew , Laue Thomas M.
Published: April 2018

Weak protein–protein interactions may be important to binding cooperativity. A panel of seven fluorescently labeled tracer monoclonal IgG antibodies, differing in variable (V) and constant (C) region sequences, were sedimented in increasing concentrations of unlabeled IgGs of identical, similar, and different backgrounds. Weak IgG::IgG attractive interactions were detected and characterized by global analysis of the hydrodynamic nonideality coefficient, ks. The effects of salt concentration and temperature on ks suggest the interactions are predominantly enthalpic in origin. The interactions were found to be variable in strength, affected by both the variable and constant regions, but indiscriminate with respect to IgG subclass. Furthermore, weak attractive interactions were observed for all the mAbs with freshly purified human poly‐IgG. The universality of the weak interactions suggest that they may contribute to effector function cooperativity in the normal immune response, and we postulate that the generality of the interactions allows for a broader range of epitope spacing for complement activation. These studies demonstrate the utility of analytical ultracentrifuge fluorescence detection in measuring weak protein–protein interactions. It also shows the strength of global analysis of sedimentation velocity data by SEDANAL to extract hydrodynamic nonideality ks to characterize weak macromolecular interactions.