bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does grip strength reflect isokinetic muscle strength in lower limbs in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy?
Authors: Knak Kirsten L. , Andersen Linda K. , Christiansen Ingelise , Markvardsen Lars K.
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Grip strength (GS) is a common measure of general muscle strength in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). However, it is important to investigate the correlation and responsiveness of GS compared with isokinetic muscle strength (IKS) and function of the lower limbs. Methods: Seventy patients with CIDP were evaluated with GS, IKS, and functional measures of the lower limbs. Reevaluation was performed after 2 and 10/12 weeks. Correlation and response analyses were performed. Results: GS correlated with IKS at the ankle (IKSankle; maximum Spearman's rank‐order correlation [RS] = 0.58) and with walking performance (maximum RS = −0.38). IKSankle was more responsive to detect change (standardized response mean [SRM] = 0.57) than GS (SRM = 0.27). Discussion: GS does not seem to be an appropriate surrogate measure of IKS and function of the lower limbs in patients with CIDP. Muscle Nerve 58: 449–452, 2018
Tank Acclimation and Induced Spawning of the Catostomid, Black Buffalo
Authors: Guy Emmet L , Allen Peter J
Published: March 2018

The Black Buffalo Ictiobus niger is a deep-bodied, riverine species that has experienced population declines similar to many other catostomids. Captive propagation is an important component of conservation for declining species, although there is little known about induced spawning techniques for catostomids. Developing culture techniques for Black Buffalo, including tank acclimation and induced spawning, are potentially beneficial for conserving other catostomids as well. Therefore, we examined tank acclimation and induced-spawning methods in three separate spawns over 2 years. Acclimation was aided by cool temperatures (~15°C), low salinity (3.0‰), and light-reducing covers for 2.5 weeks after which temperature was increased from 15°C to 23°C by 1°C/d over 8 d. Females (n = 23; TL = 641 ± 12 mm [mean ± SE], weight = 4,773 ± 299 g) were injected with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa), and 7 of 23 ovulated (30.4%) with a mean fertilization percentage of 41.5% (SE, 7.1%). Large fish and fungal growth on incubating embryos provided logistical challenges, further indicating the importance of minimizing stress during tank-holding procedures. This study outlines effective tank acclimation procedures and demonstrates that Black Buffalo can be induced to spawn with GnRHa.
Bladder overdistension with polyuria in a hypertensive rat model
Authors: Velasquez Flores Monica , Mossa Abubakr H. , Cammisotto Philippe , Campeau Lysanne
Published: March 2018

Aims

Polyuria can lead to progressive chronic bladder overdistension. The impact of polyuria on the bladder has been extensively studied in settings of either diabetes or sucrose diuresis in animals. The goal of this study was to investigate the outcomes of polyuria in a hypertension setting.

Materials and Methods

Male Dahl/SS rats, a hypertension model, received a high‐salt or normal diet for 6 weeks. Twenty‐four‐hour water intake, micturition patterns, and blood pressures were recorded biweekly. Conscious cystometry was carried out at the end of this period. Bladders were collected to measure contractile force and for histological analysis. Paired t‐tests were used to compare changes between Week 0 and Week 6 within each group. Unpaired t‐tests were used for comparisons between groups for all parameters at Week 6.

Results

Six weeks of high‐salt diet significantly increased water intake and total urine. Blood pressures and volume of urine per micturition was higher in rats on high‐salt diet. Bladder overdistension in the high‐salt diet group was confirmed by cystometry, shown by a significantly higher bladder capacity, and compliance. No difference in detrusor contractility was observed between both groups. Collagen content was significantly higher in the lamina propria of the high‐salt group compared to the normal group, while the opposite was observed in the muscularis.

Conclusions

Polyuria, in a hypertension context, leads to changes in bladder morphology and function. These findings help clarify the deleterious clinical impact of polyuria on voiding function, highlighting the variable consequences of bladder overdistension according to the underlying pathology.
Alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonists, 5‐alpha reductase inhibitors, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, and phytotherapic compounds in men with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic obstruction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of urodynamic studies
Authors: Fusco Ferdinando , Creta Massimiliano , De Nunzio Cosimo , Gacci Mauro , Li Marzi Vincenzo , Finazzi Agrò Enrico
Published: March 2018

Aims

To perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies evaluating the urodynamic outcomes of alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonists (ABs), 5‐alpha reductase inhibitors (5‐ARIs), phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5is), and phytotherapic compounds in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic obstruction (LUTS/BPO).

Methods

A systematic review of PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus databases was performed in June 2017. We included full papers that met the following criteria: original research; English language; human studies; enrolling LUTS/BPO patients; reporting maximum urinary flow (Qmax), and detrusor pressure at maximum urinary flow (PdetQmax). The primary endpoint was variation in bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI). Secondary endpoints were variations in Qmax and PdetQmax.

Results

Twenty‐three studies involving 1044 patients were included in the final analysis. Eighteen, three, two, and one study evaluated the urodynamic outcomes of ABs, 5‐ARIs, PDE5is, and phytotherapic compounds, respectively. BOOI, PdetQmax, and Qmax improved in a statistically significant manner in patients receiving ABs and in those receiving 5‐ARIs. The overall pooled data showed a mean BOOI change of −15.40 (P < 0.00001) and of −10.55 (P = 0,004) for ABs and 5‐ARIs, respectively. Mean PdetQmax and Qmax changes were:12.30 cm H2O (P < 0.00001) and +2.27 ml/s (P < 0.00001) for ABs and −9.63 cm H2O (P = 0.05), and +1.18 mL/s (P = 0.04) for 5‐ARIs. PDE5is and phytotherapic compounds had no significant effects on urodynamic parameters.

Conclusions

ABs and 5‐ARIs efficiently improve BOOI in men with LUTS/BPO. Both treatments are associated with a clinically significant decrease in PdetQmax but only marginal improvements in Qmax.
Selective bladder denervation for overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome: From concept to healing outcomes using the ovine model
Authors: Fugett James , Phillips Lynette , Tobin Emily , Whitbrook Eric , Bennett Haydon , Shrout Joshua , Coad James E.
Published: March 2018

Aims

We evaluated a Selective Bladder Denervation (SBD) device, which uses radiofrequency ablation, for the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome in terms of its nerve denervation, ablation characteristics, and post‐treatment healing.

Methods

Using the SBD device, eight fresh extirpated ovine bladder trigones were treated (90°C set point for 60 s) and nitroblue tetrazolium viability stained to characterize the ablation. In addition, 12 trigones were treated in vivo with three adjacent ablations and divided into survival cohorts: Day 7, Day 30, and Day 90 to assess the ablations and their associated healing.

Results

The ex vivo single trigone ablations had a 7.9 ± 0.9 mm width and 5.7 ± 1.0 mm thickness that involved the submucosa, detrusor muscle, adventitia, and vagina. Microscopic viability staining confirmed complete nerve necrosis within the targeted tissue. The in vivo Day 7 trigones supported the ex vivo ablation characteristics and showed up to minimal inflammation, granulation tissue, and collagen fibrosis. Day 30 trigones had essentially absent inflammation and granulation tissue with evolving collagen fibrosis at the ablation's periphery. Day 90 trigones had essentially absent acute inflammation, minimal chronic inflammation, essentially absent granulation tissue, and up to mild collagen fibrosis. No ureteral/urethral alterations, vesico‐vaginal fistulas, or other complications were identified.

Conclusions

The SBD device provided a targeted trigone ablation with resultant denervation. The tissue healing timeline followed that expected for a hyperthermic ablation and was characterized by a fibroproliferative healing response with limited inflammation and granulation tissue. The ablations did not impact the overlying bladder mucosal surface.
Efficacy and safety of mirabegron for the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity—Prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Krhut Jan , Borovička Vladimír , Bílková Karolína , Sýkora Radek , Míka David , Mokriš Jan , Zachoval Roman
Published: March 2018

Aims

To assess the efficacy and safety of mirabegron in the treatment of neurogenic detrusor overactivity.

Methods

This prospective, multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was conducted in three tertiary centers, and included 78 patients suffering from spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis. Patients were randomized for Mirabegron 50 mg (Group A) or placebo (Group B). Urodynamic parameters, the 24 h pad‐weight test, and patient‐reported outcomes were assessed. Safety assessments included monitoring the incidence and severity of adverse events. Changes in time and differences between groups were assessed with nonparametric Kruskal‐Wallis one‐way analysis of variance; P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In total, 66 patients were eligible for inclusion in the final analysis. There was a significant increase of volume at the first detrusor contraction (P = 0.00047) and an improvement in bladder compliance (P = 0.0041) in the mirabegron group compared with the placebo‐treated group, whereas the increase in cystometric capacity did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.061). There was a clear tendency to reduced urine leakage (P = 0.056) in Group A. There were significant changes in all the patient‐reported outcomes, favoring the mirabegron group. The incidence of drug‐related adverse events was 3.13%.

Conclusions

Mirabegron (50 mg) improved both urodynamic variables and patient‐reported outcomes in patients with NDO. The treatment was tolerated well.
Effect of severity of urinary incontinence on quality of life in women
Authors: Krhut Jan , Gärtner Marcel , Mokris Jan , Horcicka Lukas , Svabik Kamil , Zachoval Roman , Martan Alois , Zvara Peter
Published: March 2018

Aims

While the effect of different types of incontinence on the quality of life (QoL) has been clearly documented, the information about the impact of incontinence severity on QoL in women is lacking. Therefore, we investigated whether increasingly severe degrees of incontinence were linearly correlated with poorer QoL.

Methods

We included 391 incontinent women and 81 continent volunteers in the study and assessed them in accordance with routine clinical practice. A 24 h pad‐weight test was used to objectively quantify the incontinence severity. We then stratified participants according to incontinence type and severity and assessed correlations between incontinence severity and Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC), International Consultation on Incontinence short‐form questionnaire (ICIQ‐SF), and King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) quality of life scores in the entire study population and in individual groups according to incontinence type.

Results

Minimal incontinence was associated with significant negative impact on QoL, as measured by all quality of life assement tools. There were nonlinear correlations between scores on individual questionnaires and daily leakage volumes. Stress urinary incontinence had a weaker impact on quality of life than urge or mixed incontinence, as measured by PPBC (P < 0.0001), KHQ part 1 (P < 0.0001), and KHQ part 2 (P < 0.001). Stress urinary incontinence also had a weaker impact on QoL than mixed incontinence as measured by ICI‐Q (P = 0.007).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that even mild urinary leakage significantly reduces the QoL, while subsequent increase in the degree of incontinence has only minimal additional effect. There was no linear correlation between incontinence severity and QoL.
Gastrostomy Tube Feeding in Children With Developmental or Acquired Disorders: A Longitudinal Comparison on Healthcare Provision and Eating Outcomes 4 Years After Gastrostomy
Authors: Backman Ellen , Karlsson Ann‐Kristin , Sjögreen Lotta
Published: March 2018

Background

Studies on long‐term feeding and eating outcomes in children requiring gastrostomy tube feeding (GT) are scarce. The aim of this study was to describe children with developmental or acquired disorders receiving GT and to compare longitudinal eating and feeding outcomes. A secondary aim was to explore healthcare provision related to eating and feeding.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study reviewed medical records of children in 1 administrative region of Sweden with GT placement between 2005 and 2012. Patient demographics, primary diagnoses, age at GT placement, and professional healthcare contacts prior to and after GT placement were recorded and compared. Feeding and eating outcomes were assessed 4 years after GT placement.

Results

The medical records of 51 children, 28 boys and 23 girls, were analyzed and grouped according to “acquired” (n = 13) or “developmental” (n = 38) primary diagnoses. At 4 years after GT placement, 67% were still using GT. Only 6 of 37 (16%) children with developmental disorders transferred to eating all orally, as opposed to 10 of 11 (91%) children with acquired disorders. Children with developmental disorders were younger at the time of GT placement and displayed a longer duration of GT activity when compared with children with acquired disorders.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a clear difference between children with developmental or acquired disorders in duration of GT activity and age at GT placement. The study further shows that healthcare provided to children with GT is in some cases multidisciplinary, but primarily focuses on feeding rather than eating.
Comparison of Calorie and Protein Intake of Very Low Birth Weight Infants Receiving Mother's Own Milk or Donor Milk When the Nutrient Composition of Human Milk Is Measured With a Breast Milk Analyzer
Authors: Newkirk Melanie , Shakeel Fauzia , Parimi Prabhu , Rothpletz‐Puglia Pamela , Patusco Rachael , Marcus Andrea Fleisch , Brody Rebecca
Published: March 2018

Background

In premature infants, donor breast milk (DBM) is assumed to provide reduced nutrients vs. mother's own milk (MOM). This study examined calorie and protein delivery when very low birth weight infants were fed fortified MOM or DBM, with a known nutrient composition, relative to established nutrition recommendations and to determine if there were differences between the groups.

Methods

A retrospective medical record review was conducted in 29 very low birth weight infants receiving MOM or DBM. Nutrient content of human milk was measured using the Calais Analyzer. Added fortifiers feeding volume, and weight were collected to determine total daily calorie and protein intake.

Results

145 days of enteral feedings among 29 infants were included, 78 (53.8%) from DBM and 67 (46.2%) from MOM. Mean daily fluid intake among infants receiving DBM was significantly higher when compared with MOM, 150.6 ± 7.6 mL/kg vs 146.8 ± 11.3 mL/kg (P = .016). DBM feedings provided 110.1 ± 9.0 kcals/kg/d vs 113.0 ± 21.0 kcals/kg/d from MOM feedings (P = .275). Mean protein intake was similar, 4.1 ± 0.5 g /kg/d on DBM days vs 4.0 ± 0.5 g kg/d on MOM days (P = .162). A total of 46 of 78 DBM days (59.0%) and 30 of 67 MOM days (44.8%) were below the minimum established calorie needs of 110 kcals/kg/day.

Conclusions

DBM provides comparable nutrient intake to MOM at a higher enteral feeding volume. However, both types of human milk failed to meet energy needs with standard fortification regimens.
Home Parenteral Nutrition Reimbursement and American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Public Policy Efforts
Authors: Murphy Lynne , Allen Penny , Bond Bettemarie , Guenter Peggi
Published: March 2018

Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) has been considered a lifesaving intervention since the late 1960s for patients with gastrointestinal (GI) failure and other conditions that affect the GI tract who are well enough to be at home. Payment for this therapy under federal programs requires significant documentation and complex processes to qualify. Medicare parenteral nutrition policy, qualification processes and challenges, and advocacy supported by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition are reviewed with the goal of increasing clinician awareness of the complexity surrounding Medicare HPN reimbursement.
Improving Nutrition Outcomes for Infants < 1500 Grams With a Progressive, Evidenced‐Based Enteral Feeding Protocol
Authors: Thoene Melissa K. , Lyden Elizabeth , Anderson‐Berry Ann
Published: March 2018

Background

Growth is essential for very low birth weight infants. The purpose of this retrospective chart review was to evaluate the impact of a new standardized, evidenced‐based feeding protocol for infants born < 1500 g in correlation with growth and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Growth and nutrition data was reviewed from 2 groups of infants born < 1500 g within a level III newborn intensive care unit (NICU). Epoch 1 infants (N = 32) received care following initial implementation of a standardized enteral feeding protocol. Epoch 2 infants (N = 32) received care following aggressive modification of this initial protocol based on newly available literature that promotes earlier initiation and advancement of enteral feedings.

Results

Epoch 2 infants weighed more at 36 weeks (2562 vs 2304 g) with higher discharge weight percentiles (32nd vs 15th percentile). Epoch 2 infants started and achieved full enteral feedings earlier (day of life 1 vs 4; 7 vs 22, P < 0.0001) and required less days of parenteral nutrition (5.5 vs 17.5 days, P < 0.0001), with indwelling central line for parenteral access (6 vs 17.5). There were no differences in retinopathy of prematurity (17% control vs 19% study), oxygen requirement at 36 weeks (22% epoch 1 vs 43%), necrotizing enterocolitis (3% epoch 1 vs 0%), intraventricular hemorrhage grade 3–4, periventricular leukomalacia, or death.

Conclusion

In this sample of very low birth weight infants, a progressive standardized, evidence‐based feeding protocol was associated with improved growth without increased risk for necrotizing enterocolitis.
The cone of flow matrices: Approximation hierarchies and applications
Authors: Sagnol Guillaume , Blanco Marco , Sauvage Thibaut
Published: March 2018

Let be a directed acyclic graph with arcs, a source and a sink . We introduce the cone of flow matrices, which is a polyhedral cone generated by the matrices , where is the incidence vector of the path . We show that several hard flow (or path) optimization problems, that cannot be solved by using the standard arc‐representation of a flow, reduce to a linear optimization problem over . This cone is intractable: we prove that the membership problem associated to is NP‐complete. However, the affine hull of this cone admits a nice description, and we give an algorithm which computes in polynomial‐time the decomposition of a matrix as a linear combination of some 's. Then, we provide two convergent approximation hierarchies, one of them based on a completely positive representation of . We illustrate this approach by computing bounds for the quadratic shortest path problem, as well as a maximum flow problem with pairwise arc‐capacities.
The multiple vehicle balancing problem
Authors: Casazza Marco , Ceselli Alberto , Chemla Daniel , Meunier Frédéric , Wolfler Calvo Roberto
Published: March 2018

This paper deals with the multiple vehicle balancing problem (MVBP). Given a fleet of vehicles of limited capacity, a set of vertices with initial and target inventory levels and a distribution network, the MVBP requires to design a set of routes along with pickup and delivery operations such that inventory is redistributed among the vertices without exceeding capacities, and routing costs are minimized. The MVBP is NP‐hard, generalizing several problems in transportation, and arising in bike‐sharing systems. Using theoretical properties of the problem, we propose an integer linear programming formulation and introduce strengthening valid inequalities. Lower bounds are computed by column generation embedding an ad‐hoc pricing algorithm, while upper bounds are obtained by a memetic algorithm that separate routing from pickup and delivery operations. We combine these bounding routines in both exact and matheuristic algorithms, obtaining proven optimal solutions for MVBP instances with up to 25 stations.
Foundations and innovation in the nonprofit sector
Authors: Jaskyte Kristina , Amato Olivia , Sperber Rachel
Published: March 2018

Using a sample of 17 foundations that are at the forefront of encouraging innovation this study explored foundations' motivations behind funding innovation, their perceived ability to impact the levels of innovation in nonprofit organizations, and strategies that foundations are using or can use to encourage innovation in nonprofit organizations. The results showed that among the major motives behind funding innovation were leveraging the capital, honoring the foundations' core identity (mission and values), and desiring to encourage innovation in nonprofit organizations. Five strategies/mechanisms that foundations are using/can use to encourage innovation in nonprofit organizations were identified: (a) offering innovation awards/grants as catalysts for innovation, (b) providing risk capital and supporting early stage idea development, (c) educating other foundations on the value of innovation and serving in a convener role, (d) serving as thought leaders, and (e) increasing nonprofit organizations' capacity for innovation. Implications for practice are discussed along with recommendations for future research.
Resting Metabolic Rate, Total Daily Energy Expenditure, and Metabolic Adaptation 6 Months and 24 Months After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Wolfe Bruce M. , Schoeller Dale A. , McCrady‐Spitzer Shelly K. , Thomas Diana M. , Sorenson Chad E. , Levine James A.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Little is known about long‐term metabolic (energy expenditure) adaptation after bariatric surgery.

Methods

Resting metabolic rate under basal conditions (RMR), total daily energy expenditure (TDEE), and body composition were measured in 25 participants in the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery‐2.

Results

Six months after surgery, BMI (±SD) decreased (47 ± 6 kg/m2 to 37 ± 5 kg/m2), body fat went from 48% ± 6% to 40% ± 6% fat, and fat‐free mass went from 67 ± 9 kg to 60 ± 9 kg. In absolute terms, RMR and TDEE both decreased significantly (1,730 ± 278 kcal/d vs. 1,430 ± 200 kcal/d and 2,879 ± 544 kcal/d vs. 2,369 ± 304 kcal/d), and the achieved energy balance was −1,293 ± 355 kcal/d. Sixteen of these participants underwent repeated measures at ∼24 months; TDEE decreased 6 months postoperatively (2,957 ± 540 kcal/d to 2,423 ± 324 kcal/d; P = 0.0003), but at ∼24 months, TDEE (2,602 ± 471 kcal/d) was not significantly different compared with month 6. The average negative energy balance from baseline to month 24 was −379 ± 131 kcal/d.

Conclusions

RMR and TDEE fall precipitously in the first 6 months after bariatric surgery, but these adaptive changes were no longer significant after 2 years.
A Default Option to Enhance Nutrition Within Financial Constraints: A Randomized, Controlled Proof‐of‐Principle Trial
Authors: Coffino Jaime A. , Hormes Julia M.
Published: March 2018

Objective

This study aimed to examine the feasibility and initial efficacy of a novel default option intervention targeting nutritional quality of online grocery purchases within the financial constraints of food insecurity.

Methods

Female undergraduates (n = 59) without eating disorder symptoms or dietary restrictions selected foods online with a budget corresponding to maximum Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Before completing the task again, participants were randomly assigned to receive a $10 incentive for selecting nutritious groceries (n = 17), education about nutrition (n = 24), or a default online shopping cart containing a nutritionally balanced selection of groceries (n = 18) to which they could make changes. Nutritional quality was quantified by using the Thrifty Food Plan Calculator.

Results

Compared with the education condition, participants in the default condition selected significantly more whole grains and fruits and foods lower in cholesterol, saturated fats, sodium, and overall calories. There were no statistically significant differences in nutritional outcomes between the incentive condition and the other two groups.

Conclusions

Findings provide initial support for the efficacy of a default option in facilitating healthier food choice behaviors within financial constraints.
Racial differences in intracerebral haemorrhage outcomes in patients with obesity
Authors: Iwuchukwu I. , Mahale N. , Ryder J. , Hsieh B. , Jennings B. , Nguyen D. , Cornwell K. , Beyl R. , Zabaleta J. , Sothern M.
Published: March 2018

Objective

This study was conducted to determine the role of obesity and race in intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) outcomes.

Methods

The Get with the guideline‐Stroke database was queried for all admitted patients with spontaneous ICH. Secondary causes of ICH were excluded. Body mass index (BMI) was classified using the Center for Disease Control guidelines. Race was classified as White or non‐White. Demographics, clinical, imaging data were retrieved. Outcome measures were hematoma expansion at 24 h and discharge disposition.

Results

A total of 428 patients were included in our analysis. Female gender, past history of congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, HbA1c, blood pressure, ICH volume, ICH location, intraventricular haemorrhage and hospital length of stay deferred across BMI categories. On multivariate analysis, along with obese categories, age, ICH location and ICH volume were independent predictors of poor outcomes (hematoma expansion and poor discharge disposition). After adjusting for these variables, obesity remained a predictor of poor disposition outcome compared with normal and overweight subjects; Normal vs. Obese OR 0.26 CI 0.115–0.593 p = 0.0014; Obese vs. Overweight OR 3.79 CI 1.68–8.52 p = 0.0013. Nonetheless, obesity did not influence hematoma expansion. Overall, BMI‐race classification did not influence outcomes. However, among non‐Whites, the obese category had higher odds of a poor disposition outcome than normal (OR 6.84 CI 2.12–22.22 p = 0.0013) or overweight (OR 8.45 CI 2.6–27.49 p = 0.0004) categories.

Conclusion

An obesity paradox in ICH was not observed in our cohort. In the non‐White population, patients with obesity were likely to be associated with poor disposition outcome. Similar findings were not observed in White population.
Self‐monitoring has no adverse effect on disordered eating in adults seeking treatment for obesity
Authors: Jospe M. R. , Brown R. C. , Williams S. M. , Roy M. , Meredith‐Jones K. A. , Taylor R. W.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Although monitoring is considered a key component of effective behaviour change, the development of apps has allowed consumers to constantly evaluate their own diet, with little examination of what this might mean for eating behaviour. The aim of this study was to investigate whether self‐monitoring of diet using the app MyFitnessPal or daily self‐weighing increases the reported occurrence of eating disorders in adults with overweight/obesity following a weight loss programme.

Methods

Two hundred fifty adults with body mass index ≥ 27 kg/m2 received diet and exercise advice and were randomized to one of four monitoring strategies (daily self‐weighing, MyFitnessPal, brief monthly consults or self‐monitoring hunger) or control for 12 months. The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire 6.0 was used to assess eating disorder symptoms and behaviours for the previous 28 d at 0 and 12 months.

Results

There were no significant differences in the global Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire score or the subscales between those in the four monitoring groups and the control at 12 months (all p ≥ 0.164), nor were there differences in binge eating, self‐induced vomiting, laxative misuse or excessive exercise at 12 months (p ≥ 0.202). The overall prevalence of one or more episodes of binge eating was 53.6% at baseline and 50.6% at 12 months, with no change over time (p = 0.662).

Conclusions

There was no evidence that self‐monitoring, including using diet apps like MyFitnessPal or daily self‐weighing, increases the reported occurrence of eating disorder behaviours in adults with overweight/obesity who are trying to lose weight.
Vascular targeting of LIGHT normalizes blood vessels in primary brain cancer and induces intratumoural high endothelial venules
Authors: He Bo , Jabouille Arnaud , Steri Veronica , Johansson‐Percival Anna , Michael Iacovos P , Kotamraju Venkata Ramana , Junckerstorff Reimar , Nowak Anna K , Hamzah Juliana , Lee Gabriel , Bergers Gabriele , Ganss Ruth
Published: March 2018

High‐grade brain cancer such as glioblastoma (GBM) remains an incurable disease. A common feature of GBM is the angiogenic vasculature, which can be targeted with selected peptides for payload delivery. We assessed the ability of micelle‐tagged, vascular homing peptides RGR, CGKRK and NGR to specifically bind to blood vessels in syngeneic orthotopic GBM models. By using the peptide CGKRK to deliver the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily member LIGHT (also known as TNF superfamily member 14; TNFSF14) to angiogenic tumour vessels, we have generated a reagent that normalizes the brain cancer vasculature by inducing pericyte contractility and re‐establishing endothelial barrier integrity. LIGHT‐mediated vascular remodelling also activates endothelia and induces intratumoural high endothelial venules (HEVs), which are specialized blood vessels for lymphocyte infiltration. Combining CGKRK–LIGHT with anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor and checkpoint blockade amplified HEV frequency and T‐cell accumulation in GBM, which is often sparsely infiltrated by immune effector cells, and reduced tumour burden. Furthermore, CGKRK and RGR peptides strongly bound to blood vessels in freshly resected human GBM, demonstrating shared peptide‐binding activities in mouse and human primary brain tumour vessels. Thus, peptide‐mediated LIGHT targeting is a highly translatable approach in primary brain cancer to reduce vascular leakiness and enhance immunotherapy. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Somatic POLE exonuclease domain mutations are early events in sporadic endometrial and colorectal carcinogenesis, determining driver mutational landscape, clonal neoantigen burden and immune response
Authors: Temko Daniel , Van Gool Inge C , Rayner Emily , Glaire Mark , Makino Seiko , Brown Matthew , Chegwidden Laura , Palles Claire , Depreeuw Jeroen , Beggs Andrew , Stathopoulou Chaido , Mason John , Baker Ann‐Marie , Williams Marc , Cerundolo Vincenzo , Rei Margarida , Taylor Jenny C , Schuh Anna , Ahmed Ahmed , Amant Frédéric , Lambrechts Diether , Smit Vincent THBM , Bosse Tjalling , Graham Trevor A , Church David N , Tomlinson Ian
Published: March 2018

Genomic instability, which is a hallmark of cancer, is generally thought to occur in the middle to late stages of tumourigenesis, following the acquisition of permissive molecular aberrations such as TP53 mutation or whole genome doubling. Tumours with somatic POLE exonuclease domain mutations are notable for their extreme genomic instability (their mutation burden is among the highest in human cancer), distinct mutational signature, lymphocytic infiltrate, and excellent prognosis. To what extent these characteristics are determined by the timing of POLE mutations in oncogenesis is unknown. Here, we have shown that pathogenic POLE mutations are detectable in non‐malignant precursors of endometrial and colorectal cancer. Using genome and exome sequencing, we found that multiple driver mutations in POLE‐mutant cancers show the characteristic POLE mutational signature, including those in genes conventionally regarded as initiators of tumourigenesis. In POLE‐mutant cancers, the proportion of monoclonal predicted neoantigens was similar to that in other cancers, but the absolute number was much greater. We also found that the prominent CD8+ T‐cell infiltrate present in POLE‐mutant cancers was evident in their precursor lesions. Collectively, these data indicate that somatic POLE mutations are early, quite possibly initiating, events in the endometrial and colorectal cancers in which they occur. The resulting early onset of genomic instability may account for the striking immune response and excellent prognosis of these tumours, as well as their early presentation. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Independent development of endometrial epithelium and stroma within the same endometriosis
Authors: Noë Michaël , Ayhan Ayse , Wang Tian‐Li , Shih Ie‐Ming
Published: March 2018

The pathogenesis of endometriosis, a common benign but debilitating disease in women, remains elusive. The currently held stem cell theory posits that circulating progenitor/stem cells are deposited outside the uterus, where they differentiate into endometrial stroma and glandular tissue to establish endometriosis. Fundamental to testing this hypothesis is to elucidate the evolution of both tissue types. Here, we applied droplet digital PCR to analyze synonymous and missense somatic passenger mutations, which are neutral with respect to clonal selection, among six non‐superficial endometriotic lesions. We found that among 19 mutations sequenced, all were significantly enriched in epithelial but not in stromal components of every lesion examined. Our data indicate that the evolution of non‐superficial endometriosis is complex, in that epithelium is clonal and its development is independent of stroma, providing new insight into the genesis of endometriosis. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parent understanding of the risk of future limitations secondary to pediatric cancer treatment
Authors: Greenzang Katie A. , Cronin Angel M. , Kang Tammy , Mack Jennifer W.
Published: March 2018

Background

Parents and physicians may have different understandings of a child's risk of future limitations due to cancer or cancer treatment. We evaluated alignment between parent‐ and physician‐estimated risk of late effects.

Methods

We surveyed 352 parents of children with cancer within 12 weeks of diagnosis, and the children's oncologists, at Dana‐Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. We assessed parent and physician estimations of the child's risk of future limitations in physical abilities, intelligence, or quality of life (QOL) due to cancer treatment. Physician‐estimated risk of limitations ≥50% was considered high risk.

Results

Physicians considered 22% of children at high risk of physical impairments, 9% at high risk for impaired intelligence, and 6% at high risk for impaired QOL. Among high‐risk children, 38% of parents recognized this risk in physical abilities, 21% in intelligence, and 5% in QOL. In multivariable analysis, parental understanding of risk, defined as concordant parent and physician estimates, was greater among parents of children at lower risk of future limitations (odds ratio 2.59; 95% confidence interval 1.35–4.96). Regardless of risk, 92% of parents considered it very/extremely important to receive information about potential health implications of cancer treatment.

Conclusions

Although most parents want information about life after cancer, most parents of children at high risk of future impairment do not recognize this risk. Strategies to improve communication about late effects throughout pediatric cancer treatment should prioritize meeting information needs and improving parent understanding of the risk of impairment.
Adolescent and young adult Hodgkin lymphoma: Raising the bar through collaborative science and multidisciplinary care
Authors: Kahn Justine M. , Kelly Kara M.
Published: March 2018

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is one of the most common cancers in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population (15–39 years). Despite continued improvements in HL outcomes, AYAs have not exhibited survival gains to the same extent as other age groups. At present, details about tumor biology, optimal therapeutic approaches, supportive care needs, and long‐term toxicities in AYAs with HL remain understudied. Herein, we summarize the current state of the AYA population with HL, specifically focusing on how collaborations across the pediatric and medical oncology divide, coupled with multidisciplinary patient care, can further optimize outcomes for this group of patients.
Renal failure in pediatric Castleman disease: Four French cases with thrombotic microangiopathy
Authors: Cousin Elie , Flodrops Hugues , Boyer Olivia , Hogan Julien , Ruin Mahe , Couderc Anne , Goujon Jean‐Michel , Taque Sophie
Published: March 2018

Pediatric Castleman disease (CD) is an uncommon and poorly understood disorder of the lymph nodes. Renal failure has not been described in pediatric multicentric CD (MCD). We report four cases, who presented with polyadenopathy, organomegaly, edema and fluid accumulations, high blood pressure, and acute renal failure. In all cases, renal biopsy confirmed diffuse thrombotic microangiopathy. Definitive diagnosis of MCD was made by a biopsy of an affected lymph node located by computer tomography before initiation of corticosteroid therapy. Treatment of CD with corticosteroid therapy and rituximab was rapidly effective without relapse to date.
Event‐free survival of infants and toddlers enrolled in the HR‐NBL‐1/SIOPEN trial is associated with the level of neuroblastoma mRNAs at diagnosis
Authors: Corrias Maria V. , Parodi Stefano , Tchirkov Andrei , Lammens Tim , Vicha Ales , Pasqualini Claudia , Träger Catarina , Yáñez Yania , Dallorso Sandro , Varesio Luigi , Luksch Roberto , Laureys Genevieve , Valteau‐Couanet Dominique , Canete Adela , Pöetschger Ulrike , Ladenstein Ruth , Burchill Susan A.
Published: March 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether levels of neuroblastoma mRNAs in bone marrow and peripheral blood from stage M infants (≤12 months of age at diagnosis, MYCN amplified) and toddlers (between 12 and 18 months, any MYCN status) predict event‐free survival (EFS).

Methods

Bone marrow aspirates and peripheral blood samples from 97 infants/toddlers enrolled in the European High‐Risk Neuroblastoma trial were collected at diagnosis in PAXgene™ blood RNA tubes. Samples were analyzed by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction according to standardized procedures.

Results

Bone marrow tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) or paired‐like homeobox 2b (PHOX2B) levels in the highest tertile were associated with worse EFS; hazard ratios, adjusted for age and MYCN status, were 1.5 and 1.8 respectively. Expression of both TH and PHOX2B in the highest tertile predicted worse outcome (p = 0.015), and identified 20 (23%) infants/toddlers with 5‐year EFS of 20% (95%CI: 4%–44%). Prognostic significance was maintained after adjusting for over‐fitting bias (p = 0.038), age and MYCN status. In peripheral blood, PHOX2B levels in the highest tertile predicted a two‐fold increased risk of an event (p = 0.032), and identified 23 (34%) infants/toddlers with 5‐year EFS of 29% (95%CI: 12%–48%). Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic analysis confirmed the prognostic value of combined TH and PHOX2B in bone marrow and of PHOX2B in peripheral blood during the first year of follow‐up.

Conclusions

High levels of bone marrow TH and PHOX2B and of peripheral blood PHOX2B at diagnosis allow early identification of a group of high‐risk infant and toddlers with neuroblastoma who may be candidates for alternative treatments. Integration with additional biomarkers, as well as validation in additional international trials is warranted.
Phase I trial of the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in combination with multi‐agent chemotherapy in relapsed childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Place Andrew E. , Pikman Yana , Stevenson Kristen E. , Harris Marian H. , Pauly Melinda , Sulis Maria‐Luisa , Hijiya Nobuko , Gore Lia , Cooper Todd M. , Loh Mignon L. , Roti Giovanni , Neuberg Donna S. , Hunt Sarah K. , Orloff‐Parry Sarah , Stegmaier Kimberly , Sallan Stephen E. , Silverman Lewis B.
Published: March 2018

Background

We sought to determine the feasibility of co‐administering everolimus with a four‐drug reinduction in children and adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) experiencing a first marrow relapse.

Procedure

This phase I study tested everolimus with vincristine, prednisone, pegaspargase and doxorubicin in patients with marrow relapse occurring >18 months after first complete remission (CR). The primary aim was to identify the maximum tolerated dose of everolimus. Three dose levels (DLs) were tested during dose escalation (2, 3, and 5 mg/m2/day). Additional patients were enrolled at the 3‐ and 5 mg/m2/day DLs to further evaluate toxicity (dose expansion).

Results

Thirteen patients enrolled during dose escalation and nine during dose expansion. During dose escalation, one dose‐limiting toxicity occurred (grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia) in six evaluable patients at DL3 (5 mg/m2/day). The most common grade ≥3 adverse events were febrile neutropenia, infections, transaminitis, hyperbilirubinemia, and hypophosphatemia. Two of the 12 patients treated at DL3 developed Rothia mucilaginosa meningitis. Nineteen patients (86%) achieved a second CR (CR2). Of those, 13 (68%) had a low end‐reinduction minimal residual disease (MRD) level (≤10−3 by polymerase chain reaction–based assay). The CR2 rate for patients with B‐cell ALL treated at DL3 (n = 12) was 92%; 82% of these patients had low MRD.

Conclusions

Everolimus combined with four‐drug reinduction chemotherapy was generally well tolerated and associated with favorable rates of CR2 and low end‐reinduction MRD. The recommended phase 2 dose of everolimus given in combination with a four‐drug reinduction is 5 mg/m2/day. This promising combination should be further evaluated in a larger patient cohort.
The properties of elastomeric composites based on three network precursors
Authors: Jovanović Vojislav , Jovanović Slaviša , Marković Gordana , Samaržija‐Jovanović Suzana , Porobić Slavica , Budinski‐Simendić Jaroslava , Marinović‐Cincović Milena
Published: March 2018

The powder recycled rubber (PRR) can be used as a filler and a modifier for elastomeric materials and asphalt. Composites based on elastomers and recycled rubber powders are a serious challenge for the environment. The main goal of this paper was to study the effect of rubber powder on the mechanical properties of elastomeric composites based on three precursors of the network. Triple blends were prepared using non‐polar natural rubber (NR), polyisoprene rubber (BR), and styrene‐butadiene rubber (SBR) (mass ratio 40/40/20). In all rubber compounds, the carbon black (CB)/PRR mass ratio is constant (60). Samples were prepared using two roll mill. The characteristics of hardening (optimum cure time, scorch time, minimum and maximum torque) of rubber mixtures were tested. Tensile strength, modulus at 100% elongation and elongation at break are decreasing with PRR ratio is increasing. It is due to poor adhesion of PRR into NR/BR/SBR/CB matrix. The thermal degradation temperature shifts to a higher temperature up to 5 phr of PRR in NR/BR/SBR/CB rubber blends. Fourier‐transform infrared spectra of NR/BR/SBR/CB/PRR samples show that the absorption bands shifted 7–15 cm−1 to higher wavenumbers and confirmed rubber–filler interaction. Morphology was assessed by scanning electron microscopy. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1307–1314, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of lipo‐alkaloids and fatty acids in Aconitum carmichaelii using LC–MS and GC–MS
Authors: Liang Ying , Yan Guan‐Yu , Wu Jian‐Lin , Zong Xingxing , Liu Zhongqiu , Zhou Hua , Liu Liang , Li Na
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Lipo‐alkaloid (LA) is a kind of C19‐norditerpenoid alkaloid in Aconitum species, which usually contains an aconitane skeleton and one or two fatty acid residues.

Objective

To qualify and quantify the fatty acids and lipo‐alkaloids in Aconitum carmichaelii.

Methodology

An ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐triple quadrupole‐mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QQQ‐MS) method was established to quantify LAs, while the free fatty acids were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight‐mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS).

Results

Six major LAs (1–6) containing linoleic, palmitic, and oleic acid residues as side chains were quantified. Eighteen fatty acids were determined by GC–MS, and 15 were detected as the side chains of LAs. The LAs containing these 15 fatty acid residues accounted for about a third of the total identified LAs. Moreover, the contents of linoleic, palmitic, and oleic acids were highest. In addition, 12 oxygenated fatty acids were also identified by UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS for the first time.

Conclusion

The positive correlation between free fatty acids and LAs in A. carmichaelii indicated that the types and contents of LAs were influenced by free fatty acids.
Improvement in early detection of orofacial clefts using the axial view of the maxilla
Authors: Zheng Ming M. , Tang Hui R. , Zhang Yan , Ru Tong , Li Jie , Xu Bi Y. , Gu Yan , Xu Yan , Hu Ya L.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the performance of the maxilla in the axial view in detection of orofacial clefts (OC) compared with the retronasal triangle (RNT) in the coronal view and palatine line in the sagittal view at the early stage of gestation.

Methods

A total of 2982 fetuses (including 315 twins) were enrolled for the first‐trimester screening in this prospective study. The maxilla in the axial view, palatine line in the sagittal view, and RNT in the coronal view were scanned by 2‐dimensional ultrasound.

Results

Excluded 103 cases lost to follow‐up, 2879 fetuses were analyzed in our study. Obtaining rates of the satisfactory image of the maxilla in the axial view, RNT in the coronal view, and palatine line in the sagittal view were 95.2%, 93.8%, and 98.2% respectively. Abnormal axial view of the maxilla, coronal view of the RNT, and sagittal view of the palatine line were observed in 100% (8/8), 75% (6/8), and 50% (4/8) of the CLP cases respectively.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates that using the axial view of maxilla in the diagnosis of OC is feasible and improved the detection of OC compared with the sagittal view of the palatine line and coronal view of the RNT in the first trimester.