bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association and Linkage for Age at Onset of a Common Oligogenic Disease Using Genetic Variance Component Models
Authors: Scurrah Katrina J. , Sheehan Nuala A. , Burton Paul R.
Published: July 2017

The aims of our analysis were: (1) to investigate association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and other covariates with age at onset in the simulated Genetic Analysis Workshop (GAW) 12 general population data, and (2) to use the polygenic random effects estimated during model fitting (sigma squared A random effects) as input to a Haseman‐Elston linkage analysis. The association analyses used genetic variance component models in a generalized linear mixed models framework and were fitted using Gibbs sampling. This method successfully detected the only three sequenced genes that were also major genes. The single‐point linkage analysis used all markers provided. Regions of linkage were found close to all four of the sites of major genes that explained a non‐trivial component of the variance of age at onset. In all four cases the linkage peak fell within 5 cM of the true location. In three cases the peak significance was p < 0.01. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bayesian Association Mapping for Quantitative Traits in a Mixture of Two Populations
Authors: Sillanpää Mikko J. , Kilpikari Riika , Ripatti Samuli , Onkamo Päivi , Uimari Pekka
Published: July 2017

We introduce a novel Bayesian approach to estimate and account for population structure simultaneously with association mapping of multiple quantitative trait loci. The method is designed for an analysis of unrelated individuals from a mixture of two populations (no admixture), where the individual population memberships are unknown. In our approach, the population structure is estimated and accounted for by using data on additional “grouping” markers which are assumed to be in Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium within the populations but have different allele frequencies between the populations. We use Bayesian hierarchical modeling and Markov chain Monte Carlo estimation, where we allow both population stratification and genetic heterogeneity. In our model the number of quantitative trait loci and their positions are treated as random variables, and we obtain their posterior distributions. Here we select the candidate and the grouping markers based on results from a preliminary SOLAR analysis. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of Three Methods for Obtaining Principal Components from Family Data in Genetic Analysis of Complex Disease
Authors: Moser Kathy L. , Jedrey Catherine M. , Conti David , Schick James H. , Gray-McGuire Courtney , Nath Swapan K. , Daley Denise , Olson Jane M.
Published: July 2017

Three multivariate techniques used to derive principal components (PCs) from family data were compared for their ability to model family data and power to detect linkage. Using the simulated data from Genetic Analysis Workshop 12, the five quantitative traits were first adjusted for age, sex, and environmental factors 1 and 2. Then, standard PCs, PCs obtained from between‐family covariance, and PCs obtained from within‐family genetic covariance were derived and subjected to multivariate sib pair linkage analysis. The standard PCs obtained from the overall correlation matrix allowed identification of key features of the true genetic model more readily than did the other methods. For detection of linkage, standard PCs and PCs obtained from the between‐family genetic covariance performed similarly in terms of both power and type 1 error, and both methods performed better than the PCs obtained from within‐family genetic covariance. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of Variance Components, ANOVA and Regression of Offspring on Midparent (ROMP) Methods for SNP Markers
Authors: Pugh Elizabeth W. , Papanicolaou George J. , Justice Cristina M. , Roy-Gagnon Marie-Hélène , Sorant Alexa J.M. , Kingman Albert , Wilson Alexander F.
Published: July 2017

An extension of the traditional regression of offspring on midparent (ROMP) method was used to estimate the heritability of the trait, test for marker association, and estimate the heritability attributable to a marker locus. The fifty replicates of the Genetic Analysis Workshop (GAW) 12 simulated general population data were used to compare the ROMP method with the variance components method as implemented in SOLAR as a test for marker association, and to a standard analysis of variance (ANOVA) method. Large sample statistical properties of the ROMP and ANOVA methods were compared using 2,000 replicates resampled from the families of the original 50 replicates. Overall, the power to detect a completely associated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker was high, and the type I error rates were similar to nominal significance levels for all three methods. The standard deviations of the estimates of the heritability of the trait were large for both SOLAR and ROMP, but the estimates were, on average, close to those of the generating model for both methods. However, on average, SOLAR overestimated the heritability attributable to the associated SNP marker (by 256%) while ROMP underestimated it (by 26%). © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gene×Environment Interaction from Case‐Control and Case‐Case Approaches
Authors: Bei Yan , Goldin Lynn R. , Goldstein Alisa M.
Published: July 2017

Using the Genetic Analysis Workshop 12 data, we applied case‐control and case‐case approaches to study the effects of a major gene and its interaction with sex on the disease liability. Although no joint additive effect was simulated, the case‐case approach detected a small but significant multiplicative interaction effect, which could not be explained by the effect of random error. Given that analyses of “real” data will not be made with the knowledge of the true effects a priori, this study showed that the measure of gene×environment interaction is critical and the definition of interaction should be explicit. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Impact of Preadjusting a Quantitative Phenotype Prior to Sib‐Pair Linkage Analysis when Gene×Environment Interaction Exists
Authors: Mosley Jonathan , Conti David V. , Elston Robert C. , Witte John S.
Published: July 2017

The investigation of potential gene×environment (G×E) interactions is an important facet in the study of complex diseases. When G×E interaction exists, linkage analyses of the interacting gene must treat the environmental factor appropriately. Specifically, the common approach of regressing out an environmental factor prior to linkage analysis may be inappropriate if that factor has an interaction with the gene. This is explored here in the Genetic Analysis Workshop 12 simulated data set using the G×E interaction between major gene four (MG4) and environmental factor two (E2). The analysis shows that preadjusting the quantitative trait three (Q3) phenotype for the main effects of several environmental variables, including one (E2) that interacts with MG4, affects the results of a Haseman‐Elston linkage analysis. In particular, the agreement in detecting linkage between preadjusting versus not preadjusting was only 78% and 66% using alpha levels of 0.05 and 0.10, respectively. For both approaches, incorporating an interaction term in the regression models enabled linkage to be detected where the evidence was either minimal or not present in an identical‐by‐descent main effects‐only model. Furthermore, preadjustment for E2 did not appear to account for the major discrepancies between the approaches. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Investigation of a Candidate Gene, Environment, and G×E Interaction Using Case‐Control and Case‐Parent Study Designs
Authors: Norris Jill M. , Selinger-Leneman Hana , Génin Emmanuelle
Published: July 2017

We investigated the independent contributions of a candidate gene and an environmental factor, and the presence of gene×environment (G×E) interaction, in the etiology of a disease in the Genetic Analysis Workshop (GAW) 12 problem 2 simulated data using a two‐stage approach utilizing both case‐control and case‐parent study designs. Using the case‐control design, several SNPs within candidate gene 1 (CG1) and environmental factor 1 (dichotomized using the 75th percentile as a cut‐off) (EXP) were independently associated with disease status, in models adjusted for age and sex. We found evidence of gene×environment (G×E) interaction between EXP and two single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within CGI using the case‐control design. Using the case‐parent study design in the same population, we detected association between SNPs within CG1 and disease, but no G×E interaction was detected. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adaptations of Linkage and Association Methods for the Study of Asthma, A Complex Trait
Authors: Bosken Carol H. , Ko Ying-Chin , Shete Sanjay , Wang Tsu-Nai , Chen Jainfang , Amos Chris I. , Cheng Li Shu-Chuan
Published: July 2017

Early studies that found significant linkage between markers on 5q and asthma and IgE have not been reproduced. In an attempt to improve the power of these studies we performed a variance components linkage analysis and transmission‐disequilibrium tests (TDT) with haplotypes using markers on 5q, using the Southampton and Perth data sets supplied by GAW. The linkage analysis with covariates revealed a maximum lod of 1.57 in the Perth families. The addition of age and RAST significantly improved the fit of the null models but did not improve the lod scores. The TDT tests showed a marginally significant association with D5S393 and D5S399 and with three markers together (IL9, IL4, D5S393). We conclude that further studies are needed to delineate the environmental contribution to this disease so that the genetic factors can be more easily identified. In addition, haplotype analysis may help to identify specific genetic effects. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Single Region Linkage Analyses of Asthma: Description of Data Sets
Authors: Palmer Lyle J. , Cookson William O.C.M. , Deichmann Klaus A. , Holloway John W. , Laitinen Tarja
Published: July 2017

Linkage (genotypic) data from the 5q31–33 candidate region for asthma were contributed to Genetic Analysis Workshop 12 by members of the International Consortium on Asthma Genetics (COAG). Data came from five independent studies sampled from five countries. Genotypic data for a total of 26 markers were available, although the number of markers typed in each data set varied. Phenotypic and genotypic data was available from a total of 569 families and 3,175 subjects. The phenotypic data available varied among the studies; however information regarding physician‐diagnosed asthma and total serum IgE levels was available in all five studies. This paper describes the ascertainment, data collection methods, phenotypic data, and genotypic data available for the single linkage region analyses undertaken for Genetic Analysis Workshop 12. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
After successful hepatitis C virus antiviral therapy: It looks that normal alanine aminotransferase level is not the normal
Authors: El Kassas Mohamed , Alboraie Mohamed , Mostafa Aya , Ezzat Reem , El Tahan Adel , Afify Shimaa , Sweedy Ahmed , Kabbash Ibrahim , Esmat Gamal
Published: July 2017

Background

Normal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels differ with age, gender, and body mass index. Adjusting the upper limits of normal (ULN) for ALT needs further research in different populations. Aim of this work was to monitor the effect of successful chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treatment on the ALT levels in patients with normal pretreatment ALT.

Methods

Data of 1160 CHC patients with persistent pretreatment normal liver enzymes were retrospectively analyzed. Treatment response to direct acting antiviral agents (DAAs) therapy was recorded. Changes in ALT levels before and after treatment were analyzed by patients’ demographic, laboratory, and radiologic characteristics. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of ALT after treatment were used to generate a new ALT ULN.

Results

Males were 568 (49%) and females 592 (51%) with a mean age of 50.7 years. After treatment, mean (±SD) of ALT levels significantly decreased from (26.3±7.8) to (19.1±10.9). This reduction was more significant in interferon‐free than interferon‐based regimens. ROC curve analyses suggested a new ALT ULN cut off (26.4 IU/L) in the treated patients (sensitivity=78.6%, specificity=83.8%, AUROC=0.89. This cutoff dropped to 14.7 IU/L in cirrhotic patients (sensitivity=77.4%, specificity=44.7%, AUROC=0.612). The identified cutoffs were 16.3 IU/L (sensitivity=66.7%, specificity=47.5%, AUROC=0.499) and 15.5 IU/L (sensitivity=76.5%, specificity=51.3%, AUROC=0.576) in males and females, respectively.

Conclusion

The current ALT ULN needs readjustment to identify new normal cutoffs in CHC patients. Posttreatment cutoffs differ according to gender, pretreatment liver affection, and treatment regimen.
Review of dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI: Technical aspects and applications in the musculoskeletal system
Authors: Sujlana Parvinder , Skrok Jan , Fayad Laura M.
Published: July 2017

Although postcontrast imaging has been used for many years in musculoskeletal imaging, dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE) MRI is not routinely used in many centers around the world. Unlike conventional contrast‐enhanced sequences, DCE‐MRI allows the evaluation of the temporal pattern of enhancement in the musculoskeletal system, perhaps best known for its use in oncologic applications (such as differentiating benign from malignant tumors, evaluating for treatment response after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and differentiating postsurgical changes from residual tumor). However, DCE‐MRI can also be used to evaluate inflammatory processes such as Charcot foot and synovitis, and evaluate bone perfusion in entities like Legg Calve Perthes disease and arthritis. Finally, vascular abnormalities and associated complications may be better characterized with DCE‐MRI than conventional imaging. The goal of this article is to review the applications and technical aspects of DCE‐MRI in the musculoskeletal system.

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:875–890.
An investigation of a unique group of painted silk banners from a Polish collection
Authors: Klisińska‐Kopacz Anna
Published: July 2017

Historic textiles represent a very important part of our cultural heritage. This research focused on the evaluation of a group of unique 16th century banners painted on silk. The banners were examined by Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry. The measurements were performed to characterize the pigments and materials used, in order to establish the most adequate display methods. Pigments typical of the Renaissance period such as azurite, lead tin yellow, yellow ochre, vermilion, red lead, red ochre, lead white and charcoal were found. Because some of the detected pigments are sensitive to anoxic atmospheres, a microclimate display system was selected as the most adequate option for the safety exhibition. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liquid magnetic competitive immunoassay of clenbuterol based on surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Wei Chao , Zhang Chenjie , Xu Minmin , Yuan Yaxian , Yao Jianlin
Published: July 2017

The surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)‐based immunoassay has attracted considerable interests due to its extremely high sensitivity. However, the involved solid substrate brought significant difficulties in its extensive application. Herein, based on the integration of magnetic nanoparticles and SERS, a facial liquid magnetic competitive immunoassay was developed to detect clenbuterol (CL) with high sensitivity and specificity. The competitive reaction with compatible antibody occurred between target and corresponding antigen attached on nanoparticles. The readout strategy based on the inverse correlation of SERS intensity and concentration was employed to determine the content of target. The SERS intensities were originated from the immunocomplexes in sediment enriched by applying an external magnetic field. The coupling effect between the Au and Fe3O4@Au allowed the increase of SERS intensities for improving the performance of this approach, both for limit of detection (LOD) and sensitivity. The immuno protocol was optimized carefully through screening out the amount ratio of different immunonanoparticles, exchanging the immobilization positions of antibody and coating antigen. It was demonstrated that the application of CL antibody‐mercaptobenzoic acid‐labeled Au and CL coating antigen‐Fe3O4@Au nanoparticles (configuration 1) exhibited higher sensitivity than that of CL coating antigen‐mercaptobenzoic acid‐labeled Au and CL antibody‐Fe3O4@Au nanoparticles (configuration 2). It was determined that the LOD and half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) were about 0.22 and 246.31 fg ml−1 for CL target of configuration 1, respectively. It was better notably than the previous reports. Moreover, incompatible target, β‐agonist salbutamol (SAL), was also introduced to investigate the effect on CL competitive immunoassay. It revealed that the competitive immunoassay with CL antibody was negligible, indicating the high specificity of the present immunoassay. The SERS‐based liquid magnetic sensor is expected to be developed as a promising technique for the detection of micromolecules and to provide a potential application in coupling with other techniques. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potential influence of high‐elevation wind farms on carnivore mobility
Authors: Sirén Alexej P. K. , Pekins Peter J. , Kilborn Jillian R. , Kanter John J. , Sutherland Chris S.
Published: July 2017

Wind power development is regarded as a clean energy source. Efforts to mitigate climate change, however, may degrade habitat and compromise wildlife. During winter 2011–2012, we examined the potential influence of a wind farm on a community of carnivores in the New England‐Acadian Forest, northern New Hampshire, United States, with a focus on American martens (Martes americana), a mid‐ to late‐successional forest species adapted for snow. We counted marten, red fox (Vulpes fulva), and coyote (Canis latrans) tracks and measured snowpack along roads, and snowmobile and hiking trails to determine the relative influence of wind farms on space use for each species. We observed all species at high‐elevations (>823 m), although use frequency varied by road or trail type. As expected, we detected martens most often at high elevations along hiking trails and least often along wind farm roads. We observed the opposite pattern for red foxes and coyotes. Additionally, there was a higher probability of observing canids when snow depth increased and a lower probability when penetrability increased. Although our results indicate spatial partitioning, the edge habitat and compacted snow created by wind farm roads increased access for canids to high‐elevation forest. In addition to habitat loss and fragmentation, these conditions may increase competition for martens and lower population viability. Future wind development should minimize disturbance of rare habitats, especially those considered climate refugia. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Management of portal hypertension before and after liver transplantation
Authors: Unger Lukas W. , Berlakovich Gabriela A. , Trauner Michael , Reiberger Thomas
Published: July 2017

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) represents a curative treatment option for end‐stage liver disease (ESLD). Although epidemiology of ESLD has recently changed due to the rising prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and the decreased burden of hepatitis C virus infections due to highly effective antiviral regimens, the management of portal hypertension (PHT) remains a clinical challenge in the pre‐ and post‐OLT setting. The measurement of the hepatic venous pressure gradient represents the most reliable but invasive tool for assessment of the severity of PHT. Although novel liver ultrasound and magnetic resonance–based elastography methods have been developed, their value to screen for liver fibrosis and PHT in transplanted patients remains to be established. Nonselective beta‐blockers represent the cornerstone of medical treatment of PHT, but more studies on their effects on clinical endpoints after OLT are needed. Statins are widely used to treat hyperlipidemia, which is a common condition after OLT. Although a growing body of evidence suggests that statins decrease portal pressure and PHT‐related complications in ESLD, studies on potential benefits of statins after OLT are lacking. Finally, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) are effective in decreasing PHT and seem to decrease mortality on the OLT waiting list. Moreover, TIPS does not have an impact on liver function nor complicate the transplant surgical procedures. TIPS may also be used after OLT, but the evidence is limited. In conclusion, whereas the management of PHT in patients with ESLD is based on strong evidence, further data on the value of noninvasive monitoring tools as well as on medical and invasive treatment options in the post‐OLT setting are needed to improve management strategies in patients with recurrent PHT after liver transplantation. Liver Transplantation 24 112–121 2018 AASLD.
3D‐multi‐echo radial imaging of 23Na (3D‐MERINA) for time‐efficient multi‐parameter tissue compartment mapping
Authors: Blunck Yasmin , Josan Sonal , Taqdees Syeda Warda , Moffat Bradford A. , Ordidge Roger J. , Cleary Jon O. , Johnston Leigh A.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This work demonstrates a 3D radial multi‐echo acquisition scheme for time‐efficient sodium (23Na) MR‐signal acquisition and analysis. Echo reconstructions were used to produce signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR)‐enhanced 23Na‐images and parameter maps of the biexponential observed transverse relaxation time (
) decay.

Methods

A custom‐built sequence for radial multi‐echo acquisition was proposed for acquisition of a series of 3D volumetric 23Na‐images. Measurements acquired in a phantom and in vivo human brains were analyzed for SNR enhancement and multi‐component
estimation.

Results

Rapid gradient refocused imaging acquired 38 echoes within a repetition time of 160 ms. Signal averaging of multi‐echo time (TE) measurements showed an average brain tissue SNR enhancement of 34% compared to single‐TE images across subjects. Phantom and in vivo measurements detected distinguishable signal decay characteristics for fluid and solid media. Mapping results were investigated in phantom and in vivo experiments for sequence timing optimization and signal decay analysis. The
mapping results were consistent with previously reported values and facilitated fluid‐signal discrimination.

Conclusion

The proposed method offers an efficient 23Na‐imaging scheme that extends existing 23Na‐MRI sequences by acquiring signal decay information with no increase in time or specific absorption rate. The resultant SNR‐enhanced 23Na‐images and estimated
signal decay characteristics offer great potential for detailed investigation of tissue compartment characterization and clinical application. Magn Reson Med 79:1950–1961, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Epoxy nanocomposites as matrices for aramid fiber‐reinforced plastics
Authors: Ilyin Sergey O. , Brantseva Tatiana V. , Kotomin Sergey V. , Antonov Sergey V.
Published: July 2017

Rheological and mechanical properties of nanofilled epoxy resin were studied, including adhesion to aramid fibers and strength of impregnated aramid strands. Light scattering and rheological measurements data imply that nanodiamonds (NDs) and multiwall carbon nanotubes form stable nanosized agglomerates in epoxy resin, whereas for epoxy‐organomodified montmorillonite systems, individual clay platelets orientation might be present. Also, according to the rheology of these systems, formation of the networks of epoxy molecules adsorbed on the NDs particle surface is suggested. Increase in the viscosity of the epoxy oligomers due to the nanoparticles incorporation results in the worsening of the impregnation of the aramid fibers by these formulations. However, enhanced adhesion properties could be obtained when using nanofillers, with a maximum at 1–2 wt% of nanofillers. A 25–35% growth of the pull‐out adhesion strength is also achieved. Increased cohesive strength and decreased residual stresses are supposed to be the reasons of adhesion strength decrease according to the literature. Adhesion strength increase was accompanied by a 10% enhancement of the strength of impregnated aramid strands. Moreover, a notable effect—up to a fourfold increase—was observed for the impact toughness of epoxy‐nanofillers samples. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2167–E2174, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Risk factors for stomatitis in patients with lymphangioleiomyomatosis during treatment with sirolimus: A multicenter investigator‐initiated prospective study
Authors: Kitamura Nobutaka , Seyama Kuniaki , Inoue Yoshikazu , Nagai Katsura , Suzuki Masaru , Moriyama Hiroshi , Takada Toshinori , Tazawa Ryushi , Hirai Toyohiro , Mishima Michiaki , Hayashida Mie , Hirose Masaki , Arai Toru , Sugimoto Chikatoshi , Hattori Noboru , Watanabe Kentaro , Tamada Tsutomu , Akazawa Kohei , Tanaka Takahiro , Nakata Koh
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis is a rare lung disease caused by proliferation of abnormal smooth muscle‐like cells and typically occurs in premenopausal women. Sirolimus is now the first‐line drug for the treatment of lymphangioleiomyomatosis. Sirolimus‐induced stomatitis is the most frequent adverse event experienced during treatment. To identify risk factors, we investigated the association of stomatitis incidence with patient background data and treatment parameters, using data from the multicenter long‐term sirolimus trial.

Methods

Subjects received sirolimus for 2 years at doses adjusted to maintain a trough blood level of 5 to 15 ng/mL. The incidence of stomatitis was correlated with baseline demographics, clinical characteristics, and changes in the longitudinal data. Risk factors at baseline were assessed by using univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

The most frequent adverse event was stomatitis, with the cumulative rate reaching 88.9% by 9 months, higher than that reported in postrenal transplant patients. The repetition, the duration, and the severity of stomatitis events were variable among patients. We found that patients with low hemoglobin (Hb) (<14.5 g/dL) showed significantly higher incidence than those with high Hb (≥14.5 g/dL, P < .01). The cumulative rate for stomatitis incidence was significantly associated with a decrease in the mean corpuscular volume, while the Hb level was constant; thus, red blood cell count in patients increased during the study.

Conclusions

Baseline Hb levels and a decrease in mean corpuscular volume during treatment were correlated with the incidence of stomatitis.
Use of direct oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation in Scotland: Applying a coherent framework to drug utilisation studies
Authors: Mueller Tanja , Alvarez‐Madrazo Samantha , Robertson Chris , Bennie Marion
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To report the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation in Scotland and advocate the standardisation of drug utilisation research methods.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using linked administrative data. Patients included those with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (confirmed in hospital) who received a first prescription for a DOAC (dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban) from September 2011 to June 2014. Drug utilisation measures included discontinuation, persistence, and adherence.

Results

A total of 5398 patients (mean CHA2DS2‐VASc score 2.98 [SD 1.71], 89.7% with ≥5 concomitant medicines) were treated with DOACs for a median of 228 days (interquartile range 105‐425). Of 35.6% who discontinued DOAC treatment, 11.0% switched to warfarin, and 48.3% reinitiated DOACs. Persistence after 12 and 18 months was 75.9% and 69.8%, respectively. Differences between individual DOACs were observed: Discontinuation rates ranged from 20.4% (apixaban) to 60.6% (dabigatran) and 12 months persistence from 60.1% (dabigatran) to 85.5% (apixaban). Adherence to treatment with all DOACs was good: Overall DOAC median medication refill adherence was 102.9% (interquartile range 88.9%‐115.5%), and 82.3% of patients had a medication refill adherence > 80%.

Conclusions

In Scotland, adherence to DOAC treatment was good, and switching from DOAC to warfarin was low. However, discontinuation and persistence rates were variable—although treatment interruptions were often temporary.

To decrease the inconsistencies in drug utilisation methods and facilitate meaningful study comparison, the use of a coherent framework—using a combination of discontinuation, persistence, and adherence—and the standardisation of measurements is advocated.
Role of thermodynamic and kinetic interaction of poly(vinylidene fluoride) with various solvents for tuning phase inversion membranes
Authors: Kurada Krishnasri V. , De Sirshendu
Published: July 2017

An extensive study of thermodynamics and kinetics of non‐solvent induced phase separation was carried out for poly(vinylidene fluoride)/solvent/water system for four different solvents. Literature available on semicrystalline polymers was mostly based on experimental cloud points, obtained to a narrow range of polymer concentration (<10 wt%), much less than the working range for membrane preparation (20–25 wt%). Aim of this work was to model the thermodynamic phase diagram using extended Flory–Huggins theory which was used as a tool, along with the kinetic data to obtain tailor‐made membranes with desired morphology and properties. Interaction parameters involving solvent, nonsolvent, and polymer played an important role to tune the porosity of the membrane. Thermodynamic calculation showed solvent N,N‐dimethyl acetamide resulted in the most porous membrane (permeability 5.4 × 10−11 m Pa−1 s−1) followed by N,N‐dimethyl formamide (permeability 4.2 × 10−11 m Pa−1 s−1), N‐methyl pyrrolidone (permeability 3.8 × 10−11 m Pa−1 s−1), and acetone (impermeable to water even at 1380 kPa), which was the densest one. Prepared membranes were characterized in terms of surface morphology, molecular weight cut‐off, tensile strength, pore volume distribution, crystallinity, and surface roughness, which were correlated to inferences based on thermodynamic and kinetic calculations. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1062–1073, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanisms of atmospheric pressure plasma treatment of BOPP
Authors: Sawtell David A. G. , Abd‐Allah Zaenab , Bradley James W. , West Glen T. , Kelly Peter J.
Published: July 2017

Surface energy increase of polymers with plasma treatment is an industrially significant process. The mechanisms behind this process are little understood, with work addressing the water contact angle decrease with treatment and changes in surface chemistry. Work presented here addresses the mechanism of this surface energy increase, by using crystalline biaxially orientated polypropylene (BOPP) films to identify plasma induced structural changes. Increased crystallinity of the BOPP films were observed by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy, indicating preferential oxidation of amorphous regions of the BOPP films by the plasma. This crystal structure change correlates with XRD peak shifts, implying relaxation of crystal regions into regions previously occupied by amorphous BOPP. The trend in surface energy increases also correlates with the effective increase in crystallinity.
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum, emphysema, and pulmonary bullae associated with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in a child
Authors: Huang Lilin , Chen Huajia , Peng Shumei
Published: July 2017

We report a 21‐month‐old child with spontaneous pneumomediastinum (PM), emphysema, and pulmonary bullae caused by Mycoplasma pneumonia (M. pneumoniae) pneumonia. The patient presented with stubborn dyspnea and wheezing although received integrated treatment, including anti‐infection, anti‐inflammation, and intravenous immunoglobulin. This case was unique in that pulmonary bullae kept increasing. PM and emphysema were refractory in our patient, which have been reported as benign and limited. Surgical intervention was implemented to ultimately cure the case. Clinicians should be aware of air leaks in patients with M. pneumoniae pneumonia since this complication may be fatal.
Reduction of Ischemic Brain Edema by Combined use of Paeoniflorin and Astragaloside IV via Down‐Regulating Connexin 43
Authors: Chu Heling , Huang Chuyi , Gao Zidan , Dong Jing , Tang Yuping , Dong Qiang
Published: July 2017

Paeoniflorin (PF) and astragaloside IV (AS‐IV) have protective effects on cerebral ischemia. We aimed to test the effects of combined use of PF and AS‐IV on ischemic brain edema and investigate whether the effects were dependent on connexin43 (Cx43). We detected the expression of Cx43 induced by PF and AS‐IV after cerebral ischemia. We also examined the effects of combined use of PF and AS‐IV on ischemic edema and further investigated the related pathways. We demonstrated PF and AS‐IV decreased Cx43 and aquaporin4 (AQP4) associating with reduction of brain edema by dry‐wet weight and brain‐specific gravity methods after cerebral ischemia. Administration of PF and AS‐IV displayed a further attenuation of brain edema with lower Cx43 levels. Meanwhile, Cx43 blockade inhibited AQP4 down‐regulation by the two drugs. Moreover, phosphorylation of C‐Jun amino‐terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) were increased by PF and AS‐IV, respectively. The effects of PF and AS‐IV to down‐regulate Cx43 were suppressed by JNK and ERK inhibitors, respectively. Our data indicate that PF and AS‐IV alleviate ischemic brain edema, which has close relation to Cx43 down‐regulation causing decrease of AQP4 via JNK and ERK pathways activation, respectively. Combined administration elicits synergistic effects on brain edema reduction. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rutin, a Quercetin Glycoside, Restores Chemosensitivity in Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Iriti Marcello , Kubina Robert , Cochis Andrea , Sorrentino Rita , Varoni Elena M. , Kabała‐Dzik Agata , Azzimonti Barbara , Dziedzic Arkadiusz , Rimondini Lia , Wojtyczka Robert D.
Published: July 2017

Several studies have documented the ability of flavonoids to sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutics and reverse multidrug resistance by inhibition of efflux pumps (adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette transporters), apoptosis activation, and cell cycle arrest. In this study, the flavonoid rutin (quercetin 3‐O‐β‐d‐rutinoside) was investigated as chemosensitizer towards two different human epithelial breast cancer cell lines: (i) MB‐MDA‐231, selected as representative for triple‐negative breast cancer and (ii) MCF‐7 used as a well‐characterized model of HER2‐negative breast cancer. To assess the cytocompatibility of rutin against non‐cancer cells, primary human mammary fibroblasts were used as control and non‐target cells. In MDA‐MB‐231 cells, 20 μM rutin enhanced cytotoxicity related to cyclophosphamide and methotrexate. Rutin significantly (p < 0.05) increased the anticancer activity of both chemotherapeutics, at 24–48–72 h, and decreased the activity of the adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette transporters, namely, P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). Flow cytometry analysis showed 20 μM and 50 μM rutin arrested cell cycle at G2/M and G0/G1 phases, respectively, significantly promoting cell apoptosis. Rutin, via non‐selective inhibition of P‐gp and BCRP pumps, efficiently reverses multidrug resistance and restores chemosensitivity to cyclophosphamide and cyclophosphamide of human chemoresistant, triple‐negative breast cancer cells, successfully arresting cell cycle progression. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phenyl Hypophosphorous Acid‐Assisted Synthesis of Carbon‐Modified Anatase‐Brookite Bicrystal TiO2 Nanoparticles with Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Lv Yingxia , Tu Rui , Zhang Chengxu , Fan Wenguang , He Yun , LEUNG Michael K. H. , Wang Changsong
Published: July 2017

Carbon‐modified anatase‐brookite bicrystal TiO2 nanoparticle (C/TiO2) photocatalysts were successfully synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method using phenyl hypophosphorous acid (PA) as a ligand to mediate the physicochemical properties and as a source of carbon. The carbon species were in situ formed and loaded on TiO2 surface via carbonization of PA. The characterization results show that the morphology, phase structure, crystal size, chemical states of elements and photocatalytic activity of the C/TiO2 vary with the amount of PA used. The photocatalytic performance of C/TiO2 is significantly improved compared with pure TiO2 because (1) carbon decoration of TiO2 surface extends the light absorption to the visible‐light range; (2) charge transfer between anatase and brookite nanocrystals increases the quantum efficiency; and (3) small C/TiO2 nanocrystals yield stronger adsorption capability resulting in an increase in photocatalytic activity. Visible‐light photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange (MO) by the C/TiO2 photocatalyst was successfully achieved. The MO concentration was reduced by 78 % after exposure to visible light for 180 min. The C/TiO2 photocatalyst was highly stable after four successive experimental runs.
Practical rearrangement methods for dynamic double‐array dictionaries
Authors: Kanda Shunsuke , Fujita Yuma , Morita Kazuhiro , Fuketa Masao
Published: July 2017

Double‐array structures have been widely used to implement dictionaries with string keys. Although the space efficiency of dynamic double‐array dictionaries tends to decrease with key updates, we can still maintain high efficiency using existing methods. However, these methods have practical problems of time and functionality. This paper presents several efficient rearrangement methods to solve these problems. Through experiments using real‐world datasets, we demonstrate that the proposed rearrangement methods are much more practical than existing methods.
Replicating Evidence-Based Practices with Flexibility for Perinatal Home Visiting by Paraprofessionals
Authors: Rotheram-Fuller Erin J. , Swendeman Dallas , Becker Kimberly D. , Daleiden Eric , Chorpita Bruce , Harris Danielle M. , Mercer Neil T. , Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane
Published: July 2017

Introduction Strategies are needed to improve the efficacy of paraprofessional home visitors for pregnant women in the United States. This study evaluates the maternal and child outcomes when evidence-based practices (EBP) are replicated with flexibility, rather than fidelity to a manualized intervention. Methods Pregnant mothers (N = 203) in five clinics were recruited in the waiting rooms and randomized to standard clinic care as the control condition (n = 104) or standard care plus home visiting (n = 99). Home visitors (n = 9) were selected, trained in foundational skills common to EBP and four problem domains (weight control, breastfeeding, daily habits, and depression). Independent interviewers assessed targeted outcomes at birth (82%) and 6 months later (83%). Results: Home visitors, called Mentor Mothers [MM], made an average of 14.9 home visits or telephone contacts (SD = 9; total contacts = 1491) addressing maternal daily habits, breastfeeding, and depression. Intervention and control mothers were similar in weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), depression and social support at baseline and 6 months later. The percentage of low birth weight babies was similar; intervention infants’ growth (weight/height Z score) tended to be significantly better compared to the control condition. Discussion: There are many explanations for the failure to find significant benefits: insufficient statistical power; the benefits of repeated assessments by warm, supportive peers to improve outcomes; or the failure of EBP and the need to maintain replication with fidelity. All study mothers had better outcomes than documented among comparable published samples of low-income, Latina and Korean–American mothers in Los Angeles, CA. ClinicalTrials.gov registration NCT01687634.
Rheological Properties and Microstructure Transition in Mixture of Zwitterionic Surfactant, Anionic Surfactant and Salts in Sorbitol/H2O Solvent: 2. Effect of Salts and Sorbitol
Authors: Fan Yaxun , Tang Haiqiu , Wang Yilin
Published: July 2017

The impact of mixed salts and sorbitol on the viscoelastic properties of a multi‐component system, made of a zwitterionic surfactant cocoamidopropyl betaine (CAPB), an anionic surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLSS) and mixed salts (tetrasodium pyrophosphate, sodium acid pyrophosphate, saccharin and sodium fluoride) in sorbitol/H2O mixed solvent are systematically investigated by steady state and dynamic rheology. As reported previously, the viscosity of the mixed system passes through a maximum with increase in the SLSS mass fraction (XSLSS) at a fixed total surfactant concentration, salt concentration (Csalt) and mass ratio of sorbitol in mixed solvent (R). The shape of the XSLSS‐dependent viscosity curve does not change regardless of Csalt and R, but adding salts or sorbitol has different effects on the rheological properties of this system. The former due to a high screening effect plays an important role in the elongation and entanglement of the wormlike micelles, facilitating the enhancement of rheological properties and the formation of Maxwell fluids. The latter has a dual effect on the rheological properties and phase behavior of the mixtures. A certain amount of sorbitol can promote the formation entangled wormlike micelles, while the effect is reversed if the sorbitol content is too large. The electrostatic and hydrophobic interaction between CAPB and SLSS are the prerequisite for the aggregate formation and transition. Meanwhile, the aggregation behaviors are strongly influenced by the balance between low dielectric constant, strong solvophobic interaction and steric effect of sorbitol with the ability to form hydrogen bonds which favors the growth of micelles, and appearance of aqueous two‐phase systems with smaller amounts of wormlike micelles in CAPB‐rich regions which oppose enhancement of rheological properties. Our findings provide a new insight and approach to control and adjust the phase behavior of such a complicated applied multi‐component system.
Decomposing Current Mortality Differences Into Initial Differences and Differences in Trends: The Contour Decomposition Method
Authors: Jdanov Dmitri A. , Shkolnikov Vladimir M. , van Raalte Alyson A. , Andreev Evgeny M.
Published: July 2017

This study proposes a new decomposition method that permits a difference in an aggregate measure at a final time point to be split into additive components corresponding to the initial differences in the event rates of the measure and differences in trends in these underlying event rates. For instance, when studying divergence in life expectancy, this method allows researchers to more easily contrast age-specific mortality trends between populations by controlling for initial age-specific mortality differences. Two approaches are assessed: (1) an additive change method that uses logic similar to cause-of-death decomposition, and (2) a contour decomposition method that extends the stepwise replacement algorithm along an age-period demographic contour. The two approaches produce similar results, but the contour method is more widely applicable. We provide a full description of the contour replacement method and examples of its application to life expectancy and lifetime disparity differences between the United States and England and Wales in the period 1980–2010.
Comparative Effectiveness for Glycemic Control in Older Adults with Diabetes
Authors: Quartuccio Michael , Buta Brian , Kalyani Rita Rastogi
Published: July 2017

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to summarize the current data for comparative effectiveness of glycemic control in older adults.

Recent Findings

In the last several years, professional societies have released guidelines for glycemic control in older adults, generally recommending individualized HbA1c goals. However, recent observational studies demonstrate that many older adults remain aggressively managed and are at increased risk of hypoglycemia. Large randomized trials of older adults with diabetes have failed to show convincing cardiovascular benefit from intensive glycemic control and suggest some microvascular benefit. Additionally, a few studies suggest that suboptimal glycemic control can increase the risk for geriatric syndromes. Emerging research suggests similar safety and efficacy of glucose-lowering therapies in older versus younger adults.

Overall, there is a paucity of data supporting the benefit of intensive glycemic control in older adults. More research is needed in this vulnerable population.
Activity‐specific pathways among duration of organized activity involvement, social support, and adolescent well‐being: Findings from a nationally representative sample
Authors: Oosterhoff Benjamin , Kaplow Julie B. , Wray‐Lake Laura , Gallagher Katherine
Published: July 2017

Using data from N = 10,148 American youth (Mage = 15.18) who participated in the National Comorbidity Survey Adolescent Supplement, we tested whether duration of involvement in specific organized activities was associated with different sources of social support, and whether these links explained the health‐related benefits affiliated with participation. Duration of involvement in certain activities was differentially associated with support from peers, teachers, and other adults, and many of these links partially mediated associations between involvement and well‐being. Specifically, greater duration of sports involvement was indirectly associated with higher self‐esteem and greater physical activity through greater adult support. Greater duration of club involvement was indirectly associated with greater physical activity through higher adult support and greater duration of music involvement was indirectly associated with lower substance use and greater self‐esteem through greater teacher support. Prolonged engagement in specific activities may cultivate certain types of supportive relationships, which may promote adolescent well‐being.
Assessment of physical and psychosocial status of children with ESRD under regular hemodialysis, a single centre experience
Authors: El-Gamasy Mohamed A. , Eldeeb Mohsen M.
Published: July 2017

Background and objectives:

Children with end stage renal disease (ESRD) under regular hemodialysis suffer from various health problems that result either from the sequelae of disease itself or its various lines of therapy. The aim of this study is to clarify biodemographic characteristics, common complaints, and physical, and psychosocial status of children with ESRD under regular maintenance hemodialysis.

Patients and methods:

This study was conducted on forty children (13 males, 17 females) aged 6–16 years with ESRD under regular hemodialysis, selected from the Pediatric Nephrology Unit at Tanta University Hospitals. Three structured questionnaires were used that measured the biodemographic data of children and their parents, common complaints before and after the onset of hemodialysis, and a physical and psychosocial status assessment sheet comprising of nutritional habits, sleeping patterns, daily physical activities, school achievement, the emotional, behavioral and social aspects of children, and different social relationships.

Results:

Most children with ESRD exhibited abnormal nutritional habits, disturbed sleep, decreased physical daily activities, impaired school achievement, and changing emotions and behaviors, and depressed social relationships.

Conclusion:

Common adverse effects of ESRD and hemodialysis in our center are inadequate nutritional status, abnormal sleep patterns, decreased physical activity, low school achievement, and psychosocial deterioration.

Recommendations:

Great efforts on the part of parents, pediatric nephrologists, nurses, psychologist, and school teachers are needed to improve the physical and psychosocial health of dialysis patients and thereby improve their quality of life.