bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon recovery and the impact of start‐up conditions on the performance of an unsaturated Pseudomonas putida biofilm compared with soil under controlled environmental parameters in a differential biofilter
Authors: Bordoloi Achinta , Gostomski Peter A
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Microbial functionalities deciphered from batch/microcosm studies often do not truly represent the environmental conditions microbes are exposed to in a traditional column biofilter. Investigations under biofilter conditions with pure culture of active communities along with the fate of degraded pollutants is needed. This work explicitly tracked and quantified the various carbon end‐points, CO2, EPS (extracellular polymeric substances) and soluble microbial products of an unsaturated Pseudomonas putida biofilm degrading airborne toluene using a unique differential biofiltration system under controlled environmental conditions. Further, the impact of start‐up conditions on the degradation rates was evaluated under two bed configurations (biofilm vs soil).

RESULTS

Carbon balance closure was achieved to 97% ± 5%. The percentage of toluene converted to CO2 ranged from 90% to 50% and dropped as toluene concentrations in the air increased over a range of 20 to 140 ppmv toluene. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy with lectin binding stain WGA‐647 demonstrated carbon accumulation as EPS, further validating the quantitative data. Start‐up at an inlet toluene concentration of 75 ppmv before increasing to 120 ppmv, approximately doubled toluene removal rates for both the pure culture biofilm and soil compared with starting at 120 ppmv—surface elimination capacity (SEC) increased from 0.040 to 0.080 g m−2 h−1 and elimination capacity (EC) from 55 to 80 g m−3 h−1.

CONCLUSIONS

The carbon end‐point pattern provided valuable insights to the metabolic response linked to the operating parameters. Optimized start‐up conditions can help improve process efficacy and address operational problems like clogging. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Neutrophil priming that turns natural FFA2R agonists into potent activators of the superoxide generating NADPH-oxidase
Authors: Mårtensson Jonas , Holdfeldt André , Sundqvist Martina , Gabl Michael , Kenakin Terry P , Björkman Lena , Forsman Huamei , Dahlgren Claes
Published: August 2018

Acetate, an agonist for the free fatty acid receptor 2 (FFA2R/GPR43), triggers an increase in the cytosolic concentration of free Ca2+ in neutrophils without any assembly of the superoxide generating NADPH-oxidase. We show that the phenylacetamide compound 58 (Cmp 58; (S)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3,3-dimethyl-N-(5-phenylthiazol-2-yl)butanamide), lacking a direct activating effect on neutrophils, acts as a positive FFA2R modulator that turns acetate into a potent activating agonist that triggers an assembly of the NADPH-oxidase. The NADPH-oxidase activity could be further increased in neutrophils treated with the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. Many neutrophil chemoattractant receptors are stored in secretory organelles but no FFA2R mobilization was induced in neutrophils treated with TNF-α. The receptor selectivity was demonstrated through the inhibition of the neutrophil response induced by the combined action of acetate and Cmp 58 by the FFA2R antagonist CATPB. Receptor modulators that positively co-operate with natural FFA2R agonists and prime neutrophils in their response to such agonists, may serve as good tools for further unraveling the physiological functions of FFA2R and its involvement in various diseases. In this study, we show that neutrophils primed with a presumed allosteric FFA2R modulator produce increased amounts of reactive oxygen species when activated by receptor specific agonists.

Allosteric modulation of FFA2R, a novel receptor selective mechanism, primes neutrophils to produce increased amounts of reactive oxygen species.
Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) signal intensity at 7T MRI of WHO IV° gliomas is dependent on the anatomic location
Authors: Dreher Constantin , Oberhollenzer Johanna , Meissner Jan‐Eric , Windschuh Johannes , Schuenke Patrick , Regnery Sebastian , Sahm Felix , Bickelhaupt Sebastian , Bendszus Martin , Wick Wolfgang , Unterberg Andreas , Zaiss Moritz , Bachert Peter , Ladd Mark E. , Schlemmer Heinz‐Peter , Radbruch Alexander , Paech Daniel
Published: August 2018

Background

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) is a novel MRI technique applied to brain tumor patients.

Purpose

To investigate the anatomic location dependence of CEST MRI obtained at 7T and histopathological/molecular parameters in WHO IV° glioma patients.

Study Type

Analytic prospective study.

Population

Twenty‐one patients with newly diagnosed WHO IV° gliomas were studied prior to surgery; 11 healthy volunteers were investigated.

Field Strength/Sequence

Conventional MRI (contrast‐enhanced, T2w and diffusion‐weighted imaging) at 3T and T2w and CEST MRI at 7T was performed for patients and both patients and volunteers.

Assessment

Mean CEST signal intensities (nuclear‐Overhauser‐enhancement [NOE], amide‐proton‐transfer [APT], downfield NOE‐suppressed APT [dns‐APT]), ADC values, and histopathological/molecular parameters were evaluated with regard to hemisphere location and contact with the subventricular zone. CEST signal intensities of cerebral tissue of healthy volunteers were evaluated with regard to hemisphere discrimination.

Statistical Tests

Spearman correlation, Mann–Whitney U‐test, Wilcoxon signed‐rank‐test, Fisher's exact test, and area under the receiver operating curve.

Results

Maximum APT and dns‐APT signal intensities were significantly different in right vs. left hemisphere gliomas (P = 0.037 and P = 0.007), but not in right vs. left hemisphere cerebral tissue of healthy subjects (P = 0.062‐0.859). Mean ADC values were significantly decreased in right vs. left hemisphere gliomas (P = 0.044). Mean NOE signal intensity did not differ significantly between gliomas of either hemisphere (P = 0.820), but in case of subventricular zone contact (P = 0.047). A significant correlation was observed between APT and dns‐APT and ADC signal intensities (rs = –0.627, P = 0.004 and rs = –0.534, P = 0.019), but not between NOE and ADC (rs = –0.341, P = 0.154). Histopathological/molecular parameters were not significantly different concerning the tumor location (P = 0.104–1.000, P = 0.286–0.696).

Data Conclusion

APT, dns‐APT, and ADC were inversely correlated and depended on the gliomas' hemisphere location. NOE showed significant dependence on subventricular zone contact. Location dependency of APT‐ and NOE‐mediated CEST effects should be considered in clinical investigations of CEST MRI.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:777–785.
Molecular epidemiology analysis of enterovirus 71 strains isolated in Dak Lak, Vietnam, 2011‐2016
Authors: Le Tuan Van , Nguyen Van Thi Tuyet , Nguyen Quan Hoang , Pham Duoc Tho
Published: August 2018

Human enterovirus 71 (EV71) is the major etiologic agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). EV71 outbreaks have been reported in Dak Lak in recent years, however, the genotypes/subgenotypes information and phylogeny of circulating EV71 strains are limited. The objectives of this study were to determine the genotypes/subgenotypes and investigate the phylogeny of EV71 isolates in Dak Lak over a 6‐year period. Viruses were isolated from clinical samples from patients with HFMD. In total, 43 EV71 isolates circulated in Dak Lak during 2011‐2016 were used for the phylogenetic analysis using complete VP1 gene. The phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 gene revealed that two major genotypes, B and C, were found. Among the 43 EV71 strains, 29 belonged to subgenotype C4, 2 belonged to subgenotype C5, and 12 belonged to subgenotype B5. Of these, the subgenotype C4 was predominant in 2011‐2013 and this was later replaced by the subgenotype B5 in 2014. The subgenotype B5 was dominant between 2014 and 2015, and then C4 recirculated in 2016. Our study also indicated that the subgenotypes C4 and B5 emerged into Dak Lak were closely related to variants causing epidemics of HFMD in the southern and central region of Vietnam and Thailand. Sequence analysis showed that nine amino acid mutations were detected in the VP1 region. Our results identified two significant amino acid substitutions (D31N and E145G/Q) associated with enhancing EV71 virulence.
Evidence of hepatitis E virus infections among persons who use crack cocaine from the Midwest region of Brazil
Authors: Castro Vivianne O. L. , Tejada‐Strop Alexandra , Weis Sabrina M. S. , Stábile Andrea C. , de Oliveira Sandra M. V. L. , Teles Sheila A. , Kamili Saleem , Motta‐Castro Ana Rita C.
Published: August 2018

The current study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection among persons who use crack from Midwest region of Brazil. Sera samples from 698 users of crack, collected from November 2013 to July 2015 were tested for anti‐HEV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) markers. Of the 698 serum samples, 99 (14.2%) were positive for anti‐HEV IgG. Two samples were positive for anti‐HEV IgM but both were negative for HEV RNA. The variables independently associated with anti‐HEV positivity were increasing age and absence of stable partnership. This study showed high prevalence of past hepatitis E virus infection among persons who use crack.
Spatiotemporal patterns of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in Hebei Province, China, 2001‐2016
Authors: Cai Yanan , Wei Yamei , Han Xu , Han Zhanying , Liu Shiyou , Zhang Yanbo , Xu Yonggang , Qi Shunxiang , Li Qi
Published: August 2018

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is highly endemic in China, where approximately 90% of the total human cases in the world are reported. The Hebei province, one of areas with the highest prevalence, has reported HFRS cases every year in the last two decades. This study describes the spatiotemporal patterns of HFRS in the Hebei province from 2001 to 2016, detects the high‐risk spatiotemporal clusters of HFRS, and provides valuable information for planning and implementation of local preventive measures. For the purpose of the analysis, HFRS cases recorded during the sixteen years in the Hebei province were aggregated into three temporal periods (2001‐2006, 2007‐2012, and 2013‐2016). Spatiotemporal analyses, including Global spatial autocorrelation analysis and Kulldorff's scan statistical analysis, were applied to analyze te spatiotemporal clusters of HFRS at the county level. The results revealed that the spatial extent of the HFRS epidemic in the Hebei province changed dynamically from 2001 to 2016, which indicated that a comprehensive preventative strategy should be implemented in the northeastern regions of the Hebei province in spring.
Circulating microRNAs as predictive biomarkers for liver disease progression of chronic hepatitis C (genotype‐4) Egyptian patients
Authors: El‐Hefny Mohamed , Fouad Shawky , Hussein Tarek , Abdel‐Hameed Rehab , Effat Heba , Mohamed Haitham , Abdel Wahab Abdel Hady
Published: August 2018

Egypt is one of the highest prevalence rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection worldwide. HCV is among major reasons for chronic liver diseases. MicroRNA (miRNAs), small noncoding regulatory molecules play a key role in the pathogenesis of liver. Circulating miRNAs represent potential noninvasive biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring patients with liver diseases progression. To investigate the potential role of circulating miRNAs for surveillance of liver disease progression, we assessed the expression of 20 liver‐related miRNAs in sera of 47 chronic hepatitis C Egyptian patients compared with 25 controls using quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction assay. The sensitivity and specificity were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The correlations between their levels and the clinicopathological features were assessed. Fourteen miRNAs showed upregulation and six miRNAs showed downregulation. ROC curve analyses revealed that the explored miRNAs could serve as valuable biomarkers for chronic hepatitis with an area under the curve ranged from 0.708 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.587 to 0.829; P = 0.004) for miR‐199 up to 0.974 (95% CI, 0.943 to 1.00; P < 0.001) for miR‐23b. The expression level of miR‐21 demonstrated significant correlation with age, liver enzymes, ALT/AST, and α‐fetoprotein level. AST level was directly correlated with miR‐122, while an inversely correlated with miR‐23b. Fibrosis and steatosis stages possessed positive correlation with miR‐199 expression and negative correlation with miR‐27a and miR‐93. In conclusion, miR‐23b and miR‐106 might be a useful biomarker for chronic hepatitis C (CHC). MiR‐27a, miR‐93, and miR‐199 might have a potential role in the progression of liver diseases. Unravel the role of these miRNAs in CHC patients might lead to precise prognosis and management.
Trial measurement of brain activity underlying olfactory–gustatory synchrony perception using event‐related potentials from five female participants
Authors: Gotow Naomi , Kobayakawa Tatsu
Published: August 2018

Temporal synchrony between odor and taste plays an important role in flavor perception. When we investigate temporal synchrony between odor and taste, it is necessary to pay attention not only to physical simultaneity of the presentation of olfactory and gustatory stimuli, but also to the perceptual simultaneity between the two stimuli. In this study, we examined short‐latency brain activity underlying synchrony perception for olfactory–gustatory combinations. While five female participants performed a simultaneity judgment (SJ) task using soy sauce odor and salt solution, single‐channel event‐related potentials (ERPs) were recorded at the position of Cz. In each trial, the participant was asked whether olfactory and gustatory stimuli were perceived simultaneously or successively. Based on the judgment responses acquired from participants (i.e., simultaneous or successive), ERP data were classified into two datasets. The means of ERPs from each participant were calculated for each type of judgment response, considering the onset of olfactory or gustatory stimuli (OERPs or GERPs, respectively) as the starting point. The latencies of the P1 component of GERPs were very similar between simultaneous and successive judgment responses, whereas the P1 amplitudes differed significantly. These results indicated that neural activity affecting SJ for an olfactory–gustatory combination is generated during a period of about 130 ms from the onset of gustatory stimulus. Thus, olfactory and gustatory information processing related to flavor perception (more specially, synchrony perception between odor and taste) might be initiated at a relatively early stage of the central pathway.
Sorsby fundus dystrophy: Insights from the past and looking to the future
Authors: Anand‐Apte Bela , Chao Jennifer R. , Singh Ruchira , Stöhr Heidi
Published: August 2018

Sorsby fundus dystrophy (SFD), an autosomal dominant, fully penetrant, degenerative disease of the macula, is manifested by symptoms of night blindness or sudden loss of visual acuity, usually in the third to fourth decades of life due to choroidal neovascularization (CNV). SFD is caused by specific mutations in the Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase‐3, (TIMP3) gene. The predominant histo‐pathological feature in the eyes of patients with SFD are confluent 20–30 m thick, amorphous deposits found between the basement membrane of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the inner collagenous layer of Bruch's membrane. SFD is a rare disease but it has generated significant interest because it closely resembles the exudative or “wet” form of the more common age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). In addition, in both SFD and AMD donor eyes, sub‐retinal deposits have been shown to accumulate TIMP3 protein. Understanding the molecular functions of wild‐type and mutant TIMP3 will provide significant insights into the patho‐physiology of SFD and perhaps AMD. This review summarizes the current knowledge on TIMP3 and how mutations in TIMP3 cause SFD to provide insights into how we can study this disease going forward. Findings from these studies could have potential therapeutic implications for both SFD and AMD.
The northern and southern modes of East Asian winter monsoon and their relationships with El Niño‐Southern Oscillation
Authors: Chen Xiong , Li Chongyin , Li Xin , Liu Mingyang
Published: August 2018

The characteristics of the northern and southern modes of the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) and their relationships with El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) are further investigated in this paper using reanalysis data. The results demonstrate that the northern mode shows strong inter‐decadal variations, whereas the southern mode is marked by noticeable inter‐annual variations. The west–east pressure gradient plays a leading role in influencing northern mode, and both the west–east and north–south pressure gradients have significant impacts on the southern mode. The two modes are closely related, but their relationship shows inter‐decadal variations. The relationship between the southern mode and ENSO is significant and stable, but the relationship between the northern mode and ENSO is unstable and shows obvious inter‐decadal variations. The relationship between the northern mode and ENSO is significant before the late 1960s and after late 1990s, but it is not significant during the period between the late 1960s and late 1990s. ENSO influences the activity of northern mode mainly by changing the west–east pressure gradient. During the periods of a weak relationship between northern mode and ENSO, the variations in west–east pressure gradient may be dominated by the climate systems at mid–high latitudes, and the effects of ENSO are confined or offset. The inter‐decadal variations in the relationship between northern mode and ENSO may be modulated by the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) and Atlantic Multi‐decadal Oscillation (AMO), but their roles and importance have varied over time. The relationship between EAWM and ENSO and its inter‐decadal variations vary with the EAWM index, which is induced by the differences between the northern and southern modes. When the EAWM index is more closely correlated with the southern (northern) mode, its relationship with ENSO is (not) significant and stable (unstable).
Impact of hexamine addition to a nitrite‐based additive on fermentation quality, Clostridia and Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a white lupin‐wheat silage
Authors: König Walter , König Emilia , Weiss Kirsten , Tuomivirta Tero T , Fritze Hannu , Elo Kari , Vanhatalo Aila , Jaakkola Seija
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND

Nitrite and hexamine are used as silage additives because of their adverse effects on Clostridia and Clostridia spores. The effect of sodium nitrite and sodium nitrite/hexamine mixtures on silage quality was investigated. A white lupin‐wheat mixture was treated with sodium nitrite (NaHe0) (900 g t−1 forage), or mixtures of sodium nitrite (900 g t−1) and hexamine. The application rate of hexamine was 300 g t−1 (NaHe300) or 600 g t−1 (NaHe600). Additional treatments were the untreated control (Con), and formic acid (FA) applied at a rate of 4 L t−1 (1000 g kg−1).

RESULTS

Additives improved silage quality noticeably only by reducing silage ammonia content compared with the control. The addition of hexamine to a sodium nitrite solution did not improve silage quality compared with the solution containing sodium nitrite alone. The increasing addition of hexamine resulted in linearly rising pH values (P < 0.001) and decreasing amounts of lactic acid (P < 0.01). Sodium nitrite based additives were more effective than formic acid in preventing butyric acid formation. Additives did not restrict the growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

The addition of hexamine did not improve silage quality compared with a solution of sodium nitrite. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Qualified viewing space determination of near‐eye and head‐up displays
Authors: Austin Richard L. , Denning Bruce S. , Drews Brian C. , Fedoriouk Victor B. , Calpito Robert C.
Published: August 2018

A method for determining the extents of a qualified viewing space (QVS) based on repeatable and reproducible luminance measurements of augmented and virtual reality near‐eye displays is described. This QVS mapping can also use other display performance metrics such as (1) Michelson contrast, (2) modulation transfer function, or (3) color as boundary condition parameters. We describe the use of a 4‐mm‐diameter entrance pupil, 1° to 2° field of view tele‐spectroradiometer, to determine the luminance and color uniformity of the virtual image. A 1‐mm‐diameter entrance pupil is used to map the QVS boundaries based on luminance at the center of the virtual image. The luminance measurement results from a pair of binocular augmented reality display glasses in three separate eye relief planes of the QVS of both eyes are presented. The data are further reduced to provide a perimeter profile of the QVS for the 50% of peak luminance boundary points in each eye relief plane.
Alterations in patient plasma microRNA expression profiles following resection of metastatic melanoma
Authors: Latchana Nicholas , DiVincenzo Mallory J. , Regan Kelly , Abrams Zachary , Zhang Xiaoli , Jacob Naduparambil K. , Gru Alejandro A. , Fadda Paolo , Markowitz Joseph , Howard J. Harrison , Carson William E.
Published: August 2018

Background and Objectives

MicroRNAs (miRs) are noncoding RNAs that regulate protein translation and melanoma progression. Changes in plasma miR expression following surgical resection of metastatic melanoma are under‐investigated. We hypothesize differences in miR expression exist following complete surgical resection of metastatic melanoma.

Methods

Blood collection pre‐ and post‐surgical resection was performed in six individuals with solitary melanoma metastases. miR expression in extracted RNA was quantified using the NanoString nCounter Digital Analyzer.

Results

Pre‐ and post‐surgical plasma samples contained 216 miRs with expression above baseline. Comparison of postsurgical to preresection samples revealed differential expression of 25 miRs: miR‐let‐7a, miR‐let7g, miR‐15a, miR‐16, miR‐22, miR‐30b, miR‐126, miR‐140, miR‐145, miR‐148a, miR‐150‐5p, miR‐191, miR‐378i, miR‐449c, miR‐494, miR‐513b, miR‐548aa, miR‐571, miR‐587, miR‐891b, miR‐1260a, miR 1268a, miR‐1976, miR‐4268, miR‐4454 (P < 0.05). Utilizing P < 0.0046 as a cutoff to control for one false positive among the 216 miRs revealed that postsurgical melanoma plasma samples had upregulation of miR‐1260a (P = 0.0007) and downregulation of miR‐150‐5p (P = 0.0026) relative to pre‐surgical samples.

Conclusions

Differential expression of miR‐150‐5p and miR‐1260a is present in plasma following surgical resection of metastatic melanoma in this small sample (n = 6) of melanoma patients. Therefore, further investigation of these plasma miRs as noninvasive biomarkers for melanoma is warranted.
Trends in perioperative outcomes of hospitals performing major cancer surgery
Authors: Liu Jason B. , Berian Julia R. , Liu Yaoming , Ko Clifford Y. , Weber Sharon M.
Published: August 2018

Background and Objectives

Cancer surgery outcomes at National Cancer Institute‐designated cancer centers (NCI‐CCs) have been shown to vary, and have not been uniformly better than outcomes among non‐NCI‐CCs. We aimed to assess whether NCI‐CCs have improved their short‐term outcomes over time and whether variation across these centers has changed.

Methods

Patients who underwent colectomy, esophagectomy, hepatectomy, pancreatectomy, and proctectomy for cancer were identified from the 2010 to 2016 American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program registry. Hospital trends in risk‐adjusted, smoothed observed‐to‐expected ratios were assessed to evaluate improvement and variation in perioperative complications, stratified by NCI‐CC status.

Results

Complications occurred in 18.8% of 204 732 patients who underwent major cancer operations at 645 hospitals, and complications occurred in 19.9% of 60,903 patients at 54 NCI‐CCs studied. More NCI‐CCs than non‐NCI‐CCs improved over the period (85.2% vs 58.4%,
P < 0.001; relative risk [RR] 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28‐1.66); this remained significant after adjusting for years of participation (RR 1.33, 95% CI, 1.17‐1.51). Variation in performance remained unchanged over time.

Conclusion

NCI‐CCs were detected to have improved over a contemporary seven‐year period and to have improved more than non‐NCI‐CCs. However, NCI‐CCs do not uniformly outperform non‐NCI‐CCs, and variation in perioperative outcomes remains, warranting continued quality improvement efforts targeting cancer‐specific operations.
A preoperative prognostic model to predict surgical success in patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Gaspersz Marcia P. , Buettner Stefan , Roos Eva , van Vugt Jeroen L.A. , Coelen Robert J.S. , Vugts Jaynee , Wiggers Jimme K. , Allen Peter J. , Besselink Marc G. , Busch Olivier R.C. , Belt Eric J. , D’Angelica Michael I. , DeMatteo Ronald P. , de Jonge Jeroen , Kingham T. Peter , Polak Wojciech G. , Willemssen François E.J.A. , van Gulik Thomas M. , Jarnagin William R. , Ijzermans Jan N.M. , Groot Koerkamp Bas
Published: August 2018

Background

Patients with resectable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHC) on imaging have a substantial risk of metastatic or locally advanced disease, incomplete (R1) resection, and 90‐day mortality. Our aim was to develop a preoperative prognostic model to predict surgical success, defined as a complete (R0) resection without 90‐day mortality, in patients with resectable PHC on imaging.

Study Design

Patients with PHC who underwent exploratory laparotomy in three tertiary referral centers were identified. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify preoperatively available prognostic factors. A prognostic model was developed using data from two European centers and validated in one American center.

Results

In total, 671 patients with PHC underwent exploratory laparotomy. In the derivation cohort, surgical success was achieved in 102 of 331 patients (30.8%). No resection was performed in 176 patients (53.2%) because of metastatic or locally advanced disease. Of the 155 patients (46.8%) who underwent a resection, 38 (24.5%) had an R1‐resection. Of the remaining 117 (35.3%), 15 (12.8%) had 90‐day mortality. Independent poor prognostic factors for surgical success were identified, and a preoperative prognostic model was developed with a concordance index of 0.71. External validation showed good concordance (0.70).

Conclusion

Surgical success was achieved in only 30% of patients with PHC undergoing exploratory laparotomy and could be predicted by age, cholangitis, hepatic artery involvement, lymph node metastases, and Blumgart stage.
Advances in flap monitoring and impact of enhanced recovery protocols
Authors: Karinja Sarah J. , Lee Bernard T.
Published: August 2018

Recent advances in technology have shown promise in improving outcomes in microsurgery. Although vascular compromise and flap loss represent major complications, flap monitoring techniques have evolved to improve rates of salvage. Enhanced recovery protocols have also been adapted to expedite patient recovery and length of stay. Early studies have shown benefits such as decreased complications and costs and improved patient outcomes. This review examines the current literature on these topics in the setting of microsurgery.
A modified liver hanging maneuver in pure laparoscopic extended left hepatectomy (with video)
Authors: Kim Ji Hoon
Published: August 2018

Background

Laparoscopic extended left hepatectomy has rarely been reported because of technical difficulties. In this study, we describe the surgical technique of laparoscopic extended left hepatectomy using a modified liver hanging maneuver (LHM).

Methods

The upper end of the hanging tape was positioned to the lateral aspect of the left hepatic vein (LHV), and the pathway was positioned with the ligamentum venosum. The liver was transected from the Cantlie line to the right side of the middle hepatic vein (MHV) without using the hanging technique. The lower end of the tape was repositioned to the groove created along the right side of the MHV after the initial parenchymal transection. The remnant liver was transected using the hanging maneuver. The hanging tape encircled the common trunk of the LHV and MHV.

Results

Three patients underwent laparoscopic extended left hepatectomy using the LHM. The median operation time was 310 minutes (range, 260 to 350 minutes), and the median estimated blood loss was 110 mL (range, 90 to 260 mL). The median postoperative hospital stay was 7 days (range, 7 to 8 days). No postoperative morbidity or mortality was observed.

Conclusion

This modified LHM may be a safe and useful method for laparoscopic extended left hepatectomy.
Cropland abandonment enhances soil inorganic nitrogen retention and carbon stock in China: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Tian Dashuan , Xiang Yangzhou , Wang Bingxue , Li Meiling , Liu Yanshu , Wang Jinsong , Li Zhaolei , Niu Shuli
Published: August 2018

Transforming cropland into a semi‐natural ecosystem is an effective approach to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen sequestration. However, we know little about large‐scale response patterns of SOC, soil inorganic nitrogen (SIN), and their interactions over long time of ecosystem restoration. Here, we conducted a meta‐analysis to examine changes in SOC, SIN, and their relationship along 50 year's ecosystem development from cropland transformation in China's ‘Grain for Green’ Programme. Our results showed that SOC and SIN were consistently enhanced by 57% and 35% with transformation, respectively. Similar with SOC, SIN had higher response magnitudes when cropland was restored to forests (47%) than to shrublands (36%) and grasslands (24%). Both SOC and SIN response ratios showed a quadratic relationship with precipitation. Moreover, we found a strong linear relationship (R2 = 0.36) between SOC and SIN response ratio, with the slope indicating a 0.43% increase in SIN per 1% of increasing SOC. This SIN retention capacity (the slope) significantly increased with restoration time but reduced with precipitation, temperature, and initial SOC. Restored forest had a lower SIN retention capacity than had shrubland and grassland. Overall, this study represents the first to regionally uncover SIN retention mechanism with increasing SOC during ecosystem development. It suggests that ecosystem restoration will contribute more to relieving serious environmental problems (i.e., N leaching and N2O emission) by enhancing SIN retention in China's Grain for Green Programme.
Observations of turbulence and mean flow in the low‐energy hypolimnetic boundary layer of a large lake
Authors: Cannon David J. , Troy Cary D.
Published: August 2018

Near‐bed measurements are reported for both mean flow and turbulence structure in the deep hypolimnetic waters of Lake Michigan (55 m depth) during stratified and unstratified periods to determine validity and restrictions of the expected law‐of‐the‐wall (LOW) behavior. Near‐bed currents were weak (U50 = 3, 16 cm s−1for mean, maximum currents respectively at 50 cm elevation), dominated by subinertial energy across all seasons, and showed little seasonal variation in spite of the strong seasonality to wind forcing. Velocity structure for wave‐free conditions showed strong log‐linear trends within 1 mab, with over 98% of the 2152 velocity profiles producing significant log‐linear fits within the bottom meter and a strictly logarithmic velocity profile extending to only 66 cmab on average (Cd 50 = 0.0052;zo = 0.0015 m). Stratification was dynamically unimportant to mean flow and turbulence, but fitted log‐linear length scales suggest that deviations from strictly logarithmic velocity structure may be explained by flow unsteadiness. Turbulent quantities measured within 1 m of the bed including dissipation, turbulent kinetic energy, and turbulent length scales followed LOW expectations in the mean, but individual estimates deviated by several orders of magnitude. The observed deviations from LOW turbulent structure were found to be correlated with the log‐linear length scales fit to mean velocity profiles and were consistent with the effects of flow unsteadiness.
Plasmonic Enhancement and Manipulation of Optical Nonlinearity in Monolayer Tungsten Disulfide
Authors: Shi Jinwei , Liang Wei‐Yun , Raja Soniya S. , Sang Yungang , Zhang Xin‐Quan , Chen Chun‐An , Wang Yanrong , Yang Xinyue , Lee Yi‐Hsien , Ahn Hyeyoung , Gwo Shangjr
Published: August 2018

Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have large second‐order optical nonlinearity owing to broken inversion symmetry in two‐dimensional (2D) crystals. However, despite the strong light–matter coupling in monolayer TMDCs, their nonlinear responses are ultimately limited by subnanometer thickness. Here, a dramatic enhancement of the second‐harmonic generation (SHG) is achieved from monolayer tungsten disulfide (WS2) incorporated onto a 2D silver (Ag) nanogroove grating with subwavelength pitch. By tuning surface plasmon mode and second‐harmonic frequency in resonance with the C exciton in WS2, a large SHG enhancement factor (≈400) and a large conversion efficiency (≈2.0 × 10–5) can be obtained. Furthermore, the azimuthal angle dependence of polarized SHG from monolayer WS2 can be manipulated by the nanogroove plasmonic mode. Based on this property, a polarization‐modulated optical encoding technique is demonstrated. The results suggest that 2D TMDC–plasmonic hybrid metasurface structures can provide an ideal integration platform for on‐chip nonlinear photonics and plasmonics.
Facile Esterification of Degraded and Non‐Degraded Starch
Authors: Konieczny Jakob , Loos Katja
Published: August 2018

The iodine‐catalyzed esterification (acetylation and propionation) and esterification with longer fatty acids of white dextrins (degraded starches) and “waxy potato” starch containing more than 95% amylopectin are reported. The degree of substitution can be finely tuned by a simple variation of the catalyst versus the amount of anhydroglucose units. Longer fatty acids can be readily converted using 1‐methylimidazole as a solvent. The esterified carbohydrates are attractive for industrial purposes, offering high functionality, a broad variety of functional groups, high solubility, and a unique rheological behavior.
Role of AMPK and PPARα in the anti‐skin cancer effects of ursolic acid
Authors: Junco Jacob J. , Cho Jiyoon , Mancha Anna , Malik Gunjan , Wei Sung‐Jen , Kim Dae Joon , Liang Huiyun , DiGiovanni John , Slaga Thomas J.
Published: August 2018

The phytonutrient ursolic acid (UA), present in apples, rosemary, and other plant sources, has anti‐cancer properties in a number of systems, including skin cancers. However, few reports have examined upstream mechanisms by which UA may prevent or treat cancer. Recent reports have indicated UA induces death of cancer cell lines via AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), an energy‐sensing kinase which possesses both pro‐metabolic and anti‐cancer effects. Other studies have shown UA activates peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα) and the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Here, we found the cytotoxic effect of UA in skin carcinoma cells required AMPK activation. In addition, two inhibitors of PPARα partially reversed the cytotoxic effects of UA, suggesting its effects are at least partially mediated through this receptor. Finally, inhibition of the GR did not reverse the effects of UA nor did this compound bind the GR under the conditions of experiments performed. Overall, studies elucidating the anti‐cancer effects of UA may allow for the development of more potent analogues utilizing similar mechanisms. These studies may also reveal the mediators of any possible side effects or resistance mechanisms to UA therapy.
C9orf72 and its Relevance in Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Bourinaris Thomas , Houlden Henry
Published: August 2018

Background

The C9orf72 hexanucleotide expansion is one of the latest discovered repeat expansion disorders related to neurodegeneration. Its association with the FTD/ALS spectrum disorders is well established, and it is considered to be one of the leading related genes. It has also been reported as a possible cause of several other phenotypes, including parkinsonism and other movement disorders. Its significance, though outside the FTD/ALS spectrum, is not well defined.

Methods

A comprehensive search of the literature was performed. All relevant papers, including reviews and case series/reports on movement disorder phenotypes reported with the C9orf72 repeat expansion, were reviewed. Data on frequency, natural history, phenotype, genetics, and possible underlying mechanisms were assessed.

Results and Discussion

In a number of studies, C9orf72 accounts for a small fraction of typical PD. Atypical parkinsonian syndromes, including CBS, PSP, and MSA have also been reported. Features that increase the probability of positive testing include early cognitive and/or behavioral symptoms, positive family history of ALS or FTD, and the presence of UMN and LMN signs. Furthermore, several studies conclude that C9orf72 is the most common cause of HD‐phenocopies. Interestingly, many cases with the parkinsonian phenotype that bear an intermediate range of repeats are also reported, questioning the direct causal role of C9orf72 and suggesting the possibility of being a susceptibility factor, while the presence of the expansion in normal controls questions its clinical significance. Finally, studies on pathology reveal a distinctive broad range of C9orf72‐related neurodegeneration that could explain the wide phenotypic variation.
Polygenic load: Earlier disease onset but similar longitudinal progression in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lerche Stefanie , Liepelt‐Scarfone Inga , Wurster Isabel , Schulte Claudia , Schäffer Eva , Röben Benjamin , Machetanz Gerrit , Zimmermann Milan , Akbas Selda , Hauser Ann‐Kathrin , Gasser Thomas , Maetzler Walter , Berg Daniela , Brockmann Kathrin
Published: August 2018

Objectives: In order to evaluate the influence of the genetic load of 49 genetic variants known to be associated with PD on the age at onset as well as on clinical outcome parameters.

Background: PD patients show a large variability in phenotype and progression reflecting interindividual heterogeneity. This might be influenced by a diverse genetic architecture.

Methods: Six hundred seventeen PD patients were included in this study and stratified by their “genetic load,” which is based on the weighted odds ratios of 49 genetic variants known to be associated with PD from genome‐wide association studies. Clinical parameters (H & Y, UPDRS‐III, MMSE, and Beck's Depression Inventory) were evaluated cross‐sectionally and in a subgroup longitudinally over 8 years.

Results: PD patients with the highest genetic load were younger at disease onset, whereas severity of clinical parameters were similar compared to patients with the lowest genetic load. These findings could be confirmed regarding progression to clinical endpoints in the longitudinal analysis.

Conclusion: A high genetic load is associated with a younger age at onset, which, in turn, might possibly promote more effective compensatory mechanisms resulting in a similar rate of disease progression. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Approaches to carrier testing and results disclosure in translational genomics research: The clinical sequencing exploratory research consortium experience
Authors: Porter Kathryn M. , Kauffman Tia L. , Koenig Barbara A. , Lewis Katie L. , Rehm Heidi L. , Richards Carolyn Sue , Strande Natasha T. , Tabor Holly K. , Wolf Susan M. , Yang Yaping , Amendola Laura M. , Azzariti Danielle R. , Berg Jonathan S. , Bergstrom Katie , Biesecker Leslie G. , Biswas Sawona , Bowling Kevin M. , Chung Wendy K. , Clayton Ellen W. , Conlin Laura K. , Cooper Gregory M. , Dulik Matthew C. , Garraway Levi A. , Ghazani Arezou A. , Green Robert C. , Hiatt Susan M. , Jamal Seema M. , Jarvik Gail P. , Goddard Katrina A. B. , Wilfond Benjamin S. ,   The members of the CSER Actionability and Return of Results Working Group
Published: August 2018

Background

Clinical genome and exome sequencing (CGES) is primarily used to address specific clinical concerns by detecting risk of future disease, clarifying diagnosis, or directing treatment. Additionally, CGES makes possible the disclosure of autosomal recessive and X‐linked carrier results as additional secondary findings, and research about the impact of carrier results disclosure in this context is needed.

Methods

Representatives from 11 projects in the clinical sequencing exploratory research (CSER) consortium collected data from their projects using a structured survey. The survey focused on project characteristics, which variants were offered and/or disclosed to participants as carrier results, methods for carrier results disclosure, and project‐specific outcomes. We recorded quantitative responses and report descriptive statistics with the aim of describing the variability in approaches to disclosing carrier results in translational genomics research projects.

Results

The proportion of participants with carrier results was related to the number of genes included, ranging from 3% (three genes) to 92% (4,600 genes). Between one and seven results were disclosed to those participants who received any positive result. Most projects offered participants choices about whether to receive some or all of the carrier results. There were a range of approaches to communicate results, and many projects used separate approaches for disclosing positive and negative results.

Conclusion

Future translational genomics research projects will need to make decisions regarding whether and how to disclose carrier results. The CSER consortium experience identifies approaches that balance potential participant interest while limiting impact on project resources.
Modeling the temporal evolution of cocoa black pod rot disease caused by Phytophthora megakarya
Authors: Nembot Christian , Takam Soh Patrice , ten Hoopen Gerben Martijn , Dumont Yves
Published: August 2018

Black pod rot, caused by Phytophthora megakarya, is the main cause of cocoa losses in Cameroon. A few studies have focused on describing black pod epidemics in cocoa yet numerous questions remain. Here, an epidemiological model describing the temporal evolution of cocoa black pod, taking into account the development stages of pods, is developed and studied. In particular, the relative importance of primary and secondary infection in disease dynamics is investigated. Our theoretical study shows the existence of a disease free equilibrium and at least one endemic equilibrium. We highlight two threshold parameters, related to direct and indirect infections that summarize all possible dynamics of the system. Then, based on the literature, we define a periodic pod recruitment function and provide several numerical simulations to study the impact of phytosanitary pod removal on disease dynamics. We show that intense and regular sanitary harvest could lead to complete disease eradication. Our results also highlight the importance of the environmental spores reservoir in disease dynamics, such that future field experiments and observations should focus on it.
Technical Note: A benchtop cone‐beam x‐ray fluorescence computed tomography (XFCT) system with a high‐power x‐ray source and transmission CT imaging capability
Authors: Manohar Nivedh , Reynoso Francisco J. , Cho Sang Hyun
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This report describes upgrades and performance characterization of an experimental benchtop cone‐beam x‐ray fluorescence computed tomography (XFCT) system capable of determining the spatial distribution and concentration of metal probes such as gold nanoparticles (GNPs). Specifically, a high‐power (~3 kW) industrial x‐ray source and transmission CT capability were deployed in the same platform under the cone‐beam geometry.

Methods

All components of the system are described in detail, including the x‐ray source, imaging stage, cadmium‐telluride detector for XFCT, and flat‐panel detector for transmission CT imaging. The general data acquisition scheme for XFCT and transmission CT is also explicated. The detection limit of the system was determined using calibration samples containing water and GNPs at various concentrations. Samples were then embedded in a small‐animal‐sized phantom and imaged with XFCT and CT. The reconstructed XFCT and CT images were compared and analyzed using the contrast‐to‐noise ratio for each GNP‐containing region of interest. Also, measurements of the incident beam spectra used for XFCT and CT imaging were made and the corresponding x‐ray dose rates were estimated, along with the imaging dose.

Results

The present configuration produced a GNP detection limit of 0.03 wt. % with the delivery of an effective dose of 1.87 cGy per projection. XFCT scan of an animal‐sized phantom containing low concentrations (down to 0.03 wt. %) of GNP‐loaded inserts can be performed within an hour.

Conclusions

The high performance of the system combined with the ability to perform transmission CT in tandem with XFCT suggests that the currently developed benchtop cone‐beam XFCT/CT system, in conjunction with GNPs, can be used for routine multimodal preclinical imaging tasks with less stringent dose constraints such as ex vivo imaging. With further effort to minimize XFCT imaging dose as discussed in this report, it may also be used for in vivo imaging.