bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of skin cancer among patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 based on primary care physician data from the U.K. Clinical Practice Research Datalink
Authors: Wang Youjin , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Alsaggaf Rotana , Meeraus Wilhelmine , Gage Julia C. , Anderson Lesley A. , Bremer Renée C. , Nikolenko Nikoletta , Lochmuller Hanns , Greene Mark H. , Gadalla Shahinaz M.
Published: November 2017

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an inherited multisystem neuromuscular disorder caused by a CTG trinucleotide repeat expansion in the DMPK gene. Recent evidence documents that DM1 patients have an increased risk of certain cancers, but whether skin cancer risks are elevated is unclear. Using the U.K. Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), we identified 1,061 DM1 patients and 15,119 DM1‐free individuals matched on gender, birth year (±2 years), attending practice and registration year (±1 year). We calculated the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association of DM1 diagnosis with skin cancer risk using Cox proportional hazards models, for all skin cancers combined and by histological subtype. Follow‐up started at the latest of the age at practice registration, DM1 diagnosis/control selection or January 1st 1988, and ended at the earliest of the age at first skin cancer diagnosis, death, transfer out of the practice, last date of data collection or the end of the CPRD record (October 31, 2016). During a median follow‐up of 3.6 years, 35 DM1 patients and 108 matched DM1‐free individuals developed a skin cancer. DM1 patients had an increased risk of skin cancer overall (HR = 5.44, 95% CI = 3.33‐8.89, p < 0.0001), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (HR = 5.78, 95% CI = 3.36‐9.92, p < 0.0001). Risks did not differ by gender, or age at DM1 diagnosis (p‐heterogeneity > 0.5). Our data confirm suggested associations between DM1 and skin neoplasms with the highest risk seen for BCC. Patients are advised to minimize ultraviolet light exposure and seek medical advice for suspicious lesions.
Biweekly cisplatin and gemcitabine in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer
Authors: Ahn Daniel H. , Reardon Josh , Ahn Chul W. , Bupathi Manojkumar , Mikhail Sameh , Wu Christina Sing‐Ying , Bekaii‐Saab Tanios
Published: November 2017

Treatment with cisplatin and gemcitabine demonstrates a survival benefit in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (ABTC). However, the weekly administration can add significant toxicities that may prohibit prolonged treatment. Based on previous studies, we implemented a modified biweekly regimen of GC in an attempt to optimize the prescribed regimen with an improved toxicity profile, added convenience to patients while maintaining efficacy. Patients with ABTC were treated with fixed dose rate (FDR) gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2/min) and cisplatin 20 mg/m2 on days 1 and 15 of every 28‐day cycle. Patients received treatment until time of progression, death, or discontinuation due to intolerance. Collected data included demographics, clinico‐pathologic features, toxicities, and survival. Kaplan‐Meier curves were used to calculate the median overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS). The study included 107 evaluable pts with unresectable ABTC who received the biweekly regimen. Sites of tumor included gallbladder (21.5%), ampullary (3.7%), and bile duct (74.8%). Median number of cycles was 6 (1–27). Median PFS was 8.34 (6.74, 9.23) months and median OS was 10.32 (9.10, 11.43) months. Most common grade ≥3 adverse events included neutropenia (11%), fatigue (10%), and thrombocytopenia (6.4%). Biweekly FDR GC in ABTC is associated with a more favorable toxicity profile while maintaining efficacy similar to that observed in prior clinical trials. Minimal toxicities were observed despite a prolonged course for many patients. Further prospective trials should consider evaluating the role of biweekly GC regimen in ABTC, including a potentially more favorable platform in novel experimental strategies.
Simulation of Farmland Groundwater Table Depth and Soil Salinity under Drainage Systems in Tidal Areas, Laizhou Bay of China
Authors: Feng Genxiang , Zhang Zhanyu , Lu Peirong , Bakour Ahmad
Published: November 2017

DRAINMOD‐S was evaluated using field data from Laizhou Bay, a tidal area in China, for two cropping seasons. Subsurface and conventional drainage were applied in the study area. The DRAINMOD‐S model was calibrated and validated by comparing the observed and predicted values of groundwater table depth drainage discharge and soil salinity. The calibration and validation results were satisfactory with the mean relative error (MSE) less than 10%, Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) higher than 0.70 and coefficient of determination (R2) higher than 0.75. The impacts of both subsurface and conventional drainage treatments on groundwater table depth, drainage discharge and soil salinity in 2015–2045 were evaluated with the future climate data provided by the IPCC. Seasonal variations of groundwater table depth and soil salinity were observed under both drainage treatments. The subsurface drainage practice was more suitable for the studied area, with groundwater table depth effectively controlled in the rainy seasons and soil salinity under the crop salt tolerance threshold during most of the predicted periods. This study will highlight the efforts and implementation of drainage management practices to promote sustainable development of agricultural systems in tidal areas under climate change conditions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Drip Irrigation Scheduling Using Hydrus 2‐D Numerical Model Application for Strawberry Production in South‐West Spain
Authors: García Morillo J. , Rodríguez Díaz J.A. , Camacho E. , Montesinos P.
Published: November 2017

Estimation of the optimum irrigation pulse duration and frequency is critical for any crop, and especially important in the typical sandy soil existing in the strawberry production area in south‐west Spain. Irrigation scheduling has been carried out using the numerical model Hydrus‐2D. The model has been calibrated with data from a soil tank experiment carried out in the laboratory. The optimum pulse duration has been estimated in three different crop stages, and has been compared with the irrigation scheduling recorded in the field, estimating the potential water saving in strawberry production in Huelva.

The optimum irrigation pulse duration starts with an irrigation time of 10 min that should be increased until a maximum of 1 h, divided into several pulses. Applying rop water needs in several shorter pulses is a strategy highly recommended especially in the typical sandy soil, with very low water retention capacity. It has been shown that current management is disproportionate, maintaining the moisture content out of reach of the roots.

Therefore, it is advisable to check the current irrigation management, so that the irrigation matches crop water requirements, maintaining sufficient moisture within the upper 30–40 cm of soil, avoiding water losses by percolation and groundwater pollution. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Benefit of Using Drainage Water of Fish Farms for Irrigation: Field and Modelling Study Using the SALTMED Model
Authors: Abdelraouf R.E. , Ragab R.
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the suitability and benefits of using drainage water of fish farms (DWFF), instead of canal fresh water (IW), for wheat irrigation. Two water qualities, DWFF and IW, and four levels of N‐fertigation rates [100% N (192 kg N ha−1 season−1), 80% N, 60% N and 40% N] were tested. The results showed a positive impact when increasing N‐fertigation rate on the yield using both DWFF and IW. However, the yield under DWFF was higher than the yield under the IW treatment by between 11 and 51% in 2014 and between 8 and 38% in 2015. This is due to the additional amount of dissolved biological nitrogen and other nutrients inherent in DWFF. The SALTMED model simulated reasonably well the soil moisture and nitrogen content of all soil layers as well as wheat dry matter, yield and water productivity for all treatments, with R2 of 0.99, 0.97 and 0.96, respectively. It was concluded that the use of drainage water of fish farms instead of fresh water for irrigation of wheat could help to achieve higher yields while using less irrigation water and less chemical fertilizers. Additional benefits are less drainage to the drainage network and higher income for farmers. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The synergistic effect of bone forming peptide‐1 and endothelial progenitor cells to promote vascularization of tissue engineered bone
Authors: Wang Huaixi , Cheng Hao , Tang Xiangyu , Chen Jingyuan , Zhang Jun , Wang Wei , Li Wenkai , Lin Guanlin , Wu Hua , Liu Chaoxu
Published: November 2017

Large segmental bone defect repair remains a challenge in orthopedic surgeries. The tissue engineered bone graft will be a promising approach if vascularization of the graft is realized. In this study, beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) scaffold incorporated with bone forming peptide‐1 (BFP‐1) was fabricated. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) were introduced as well. We investigated the effect of BFP‐1 on the proliferation, differentiation, and angiogenic functions of EPCs. Additionally, segmental femur bone defect was created in rabbits. Prevascularized β‐TCP scaffold was constructed and implanted into the bone defect. The vascularization and bone formation were evaluated after 4 and 12 weeks. The results showed that BFP‐1 promoted the angiogenesis of EPCs through activating the activin receptor‐like kinase‐1/Smad pathway. The prevascularized tissue engineered bone graft enhanced capillary vessel in‐growth and new bone formation. Significantly higher values of vascularization and radiographic grading scores were observed in groups involving EPCs and BFP‐1, compared to β‐TCP scaffold alone. In conclusion, the synergy between EPCs and BFP‐1 improved the vascularization and new bone regeneration, which has great potentials in clinical applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1008–1021, 2018.
Biomimetic multidirectional scaffolds for zonal osteochondral tissue engineering via a lyophilization bonding approach
Authors: Clearfield Drew , Nguyen Andrew , Wei Mei
Published: November 2017

The zonal organization of osteochondral tissue underlies its long term function. Despite this, tissue engineering strategies targeted for osteochondral repair commonly rely on the use of isotropic biomaterials for tissue reconstruction. There exists a need for a new class of highly biomimetic, anisotropic scaffolds that may allow for the engineering of new tissue with zonal properties. To address this need, we report the facile production of monolithic multidirectional collagen‐based scaffolds that recapitulate the zonal structure and composition of osteochondral tissue. First, superficial and osseous zone‐mimicking scaffolds were fabricated by unidirectional freeze casting collagen‐hyaluronic acid and collagen‐hydroxyapatite‐containing suspensions, respectively. Following their production, a lyophilization bonding process was used to conjoin these scaffolds with a distinct collagen‐hyaluronic acid suspension mimicking the composition of the transition zone. Resulting matrices contained a thin, highly aligned superficial zone that interfaced with a cellular transition zone and vertically oriented calcified cartilage and osseous zones. Confocal microscopy confirmed a zone‐specific localization of hyaluronic acid, reflecting the depth‐dependent increase of glycosaminoglycans in the native tissue. Poorly crystalline, carbonated hydroxyapatite was localized to the calcified cartilage and osseous zones and bordered the transition zone. Compressive testing of hydrated scaffold zones confirmed an increase of stiffness with scaffold depth, where compressive moduli of chondral and osseous zones fell within or near ranges conducive for chondrogenesis or osteogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells. With the combination of these biomimetic architectural and compositional cues, these multidirectional scaffolds hold great promise for the engineering of zonal osteochondral tissue. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 948–958, 2018.
Bone Material Strength Index as Measured by Impact Microindentation in Postmenopausal Women With Distal Radius and Hip Fractures
Authors: Rozental Tamara D , Walley Kempland C , Demissie Serkalem , Caksa Signe , Martinez-Betancourt Adriana , Parker Amber M , Tsai Joy N , Yu Elaine W , Bouxsein Mary L
Published: November 2017

We tested whether cortical bone tissue properties assessed by in vivo impact microindentation would distinguish postmenopausal women with recent distal radius (DRF) or hip fracture (HF) from nonfracture controls (CONT). We enrolled postmenopausal women with recent DRF (n = 57), HF (n = 41), or CONT (n = 93), and used impact microindentation to assess bone material strength index (BMSi) at the anterior surface of the mid-tibia diaphysis. Areal bone mineral density (aBMD) (g/cm2) of the femoral neck (FN), total hip (TH), and lumbar spine (LS) were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). HF and DRF subjects had significantly lower BMD than CONT at all sites (–5.6% to –8.2%, p < 0.001 for all). BMSi was 4% lower in DRF compared to CONT (74.36 ± 8.77 versus 77.41 ± 8.79, p = 0.04). BMSi was similarly lower in HF versus CONT, but the difference did not reach statistical significance (74.62 ± 8.47 versus 77.41 ± 8.79, p = 0.09). Lower BMSi was associated with increased risk of DRF (unadjusted OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.00, per SD decrease, p = 0.04), and remained statistically significant after adjustment for age, age and BMI, and age, BMI, and FN BMD (OR = 1.48 to 1.55). Lower BMSi tended to be associated with HF, but only reached borderline significance (unadjusted OR = 1.39; 95% CI, 0.96 to 2.01, p = 0.08). These results provide strong rationale for future investigations aimed at assessing whether BMSi can predict fracture in prospective studies and improve identification of women at risk for fragility fractures. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Application of reference‐modified density functional theory: Temperature and pressure dependences of solvation free energy
Authors: Sumi Tomonari , Maruyama Yutaka , Mitsutake Ayori , Mochizuki Kenji , Koga Kenichiro
Published: November 2017

Recently, we proposed a reference‐modified density functional theory (RMDFT) to calculate solvation free energy (SFE), in which a hard‐sphere fluid was introduced as the reference system instead of an ideal molecular gas. Through the RMDFT, using an optimal diameter for the hard‐sphere reference system, the values of the SFE calculated at room temperature and normal pressure were in good agreement with those for more than 500 small organic molecules in water as determined by experiments. In this study, we present an application of the RMDFT for calculating the temperature and pressure dependences of the SFE for solute molecules in water. We demonstrate that the RMDFT has high predictive ability for the temperature and pressure dependences of the SFE for small solute molecules in water when the optimal reference hard‐sphere diameter determined for each thermodynamic condition is used. We also apply the RMDFT to investigate the temperature and pressure dependences of the thermodynamic stability of an artificial small protein, chignolin, and discuss the mechanism of high‐temperature and high‐pressure unfolding of the protein. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nuclear quantum effects induce metallization of dense solid molecular hydrogen
Authors: Azadi Sam , Singh Ranber , Kühne Thomas D.
Published: November 2017

We present an accurate computational study of the electronic structure and lattice dynamics of solid molecular hydrogen at high pressure. The band‐gap energies of the
, Pc, and
structures at pressures of 250, 300, and 350 GPa are calculated using the diffusion quantum Monte Carlo (DMC) method. The atomic configurations are obtained from ab initio path‐integral molecular dynamics (PIMD) simulations at 300 K and 300 GPa to investigate the impact of zero‐point energy and temperature‐induced motion of the protons including anharmonic effects. We find that finite temperature and nuclear quantum effects reduce the band‐gaps substantially, leading to metallization of the
and Pc phases via band overlap; the effect on the band‐gap of the
structure is less pronounced. Our combined DMC‐PIMD simulations predict that there are no excitonic or quasiparticle energy gaps for the
and Pc phases at 300 GPa and 300 K. Our results also indicate a strong correlation between the band‐gap energy and vibron modes. This strong coupling induces a band‐gap reduction of more than 2.46 eV in high‐pressure solid molecular hydrogen. Comparing our DMC‐PIMD with experimental results available, we conclude that none of the structures proposed is a good candidate for phases III and IV of solid hydrogen. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
miR‐26a promoted endometrial epithelium cells (EECs) proliferation and induced stromal cells (ESCs) apoptosis via the PTEN‐PI3K/AKT pathway in dairy goats
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Xiaorui , Liu Junze , Ma Xingna , Zhou Zhanqin , Song Yuxuan , Cao Binyun
Published: November 2017

Changes in endometrial cell morphology and function are absolutely necessary for successful embryo implantation. In this study, miR‐26a was widely expressed in dairy goats, and was found to be regulated by β‐estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) in endometrial epithelium cells (EECs) as well as stromal cells (ESCs). Furthermore, miR‐26a played a role in the regulation of cells proliferation and apoptosis by directly regulating PTEN and indirectly regulating the PI3K/AKT pathway in EECs but not in ESCs of dairy goats in vitro. In addition, miR‐26a regulated the expression of osteopontin (OPN), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and prolactin (PRL) in endometrial cells. Therefore, we could get a conclusion that miR‐26a had very complex and diverse functions in the endometrial cells during the development of endometrial receptivity in dairy goats. This study provided an efficient platform for studying the regulatory effect of miR‐26a on endometrial cells during the development of endometrial receptivity in dairy goats.
Endogenous annexin A1 (AnxA1) modulates early‐phase gestation and offspring sex‐ratio skewing
Authors: Hebeda Cristina B. , Machado Isabel D. , Reif‐Silva Isadora , Moreli Jusciele B. , Oliani Sonia M. , Nadkarni Suchita , Perretti Mauro , Bevilacqua Estela , Farsky Sandra H.P.
Published: November 2017

Annexin A1 (AnxA1) is a glucocorticoid‐regulated anti‐inflammatory protein secreted by phagocytes and other specialised cells. In the endocrine system, AnxA1 controls secretion of steroid hormones and it is abundantly expressed in the testis, ovaries, placenta and seminal fluid, yet its potential modulation of fertility has not been described. Here, we observed that AnxA1 knockout (KO) mice delivered a higher number of pups, with a higher percentage of female offsprings. This profile was not dependent on the male features, as sperm from KO male mice did not present functional alterations, and had an equal proportion of Y and X chromosomes, comparable to wild type (WT) male mice. Furthermore, mismatched matings of male WT mice with female KO yielded a higher percentage of female pups per litter, a phenomenon which was not observed when male KO mice mated with female WT animals. Indeed, AnxA1 KO female mice displayed several differences in parameters related to gestation including (i) an arrested estrous cycle at proestrus phase; (ii) increased sites of implantation; (iii) reduced pre‐ and post‐implantation losses; (iv) exacerbated features of the inflammatory reaction in the uterine fluid during implantation phase; and (v) enhanced plasma progesterone in the beginning of pregnancy. In summary, herein we highlight that AnxA1 pathway as a novel determinant of fundamental non‐redundant regulatory functions during early pregnancy.
Removal of jitter noise in 3D shape recovery from image focus by using Kalman filter
Authors: Jang Hoon‐Seok , Muhammad Mannan Saeed , Choi Tae‐Sun
Published: November 2017

In regard to Shape from Focus, one critical factor impacting system application is mechanical vibration of the translational stage causing jitter noise along the optical axis. This noise is not detectable by simply observing the image. However, when focus measures are applied, inaccuracies in the depth occur. In this article, jitter noise and focus curves are modeled by Gaussian distribution and quadratic function, respectively. Then Kalman filter is designed and applied to eliminate this noise in the focus curves, as a post‐processing step after the focus measure application. Experiments are implemented with simulated objects and real objects to show usefulness of proposed algorithm.
Radiopharmaceuticals for imaging and endoradiotherapy of neurotensin receptor‐positive tumors
Authors: Maschauer Simone , Prante Olaf
Published: November 2017

The neurotensin receptors are overexpressed in various tumor types, especially in highly progressive pancreatic tumors. As this cancer has a poor 5‐year survival prognosis, there is an urgent need to improve early diagnosis and treatment strategies. This review article provides an overview of the latest developments in radiopharmaceuticals for neurotensin receptor‐positive tumors, including peptidic and non‐peptidic radiopharmaceuticals, not only for SPECT and PET but also for endoradiotherapy.
Regulation and effects of neurotrophic factors after neural stem cell transplantation in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer disease
Authors: Li Bo , Gao Yun , Zhang Wei , Xu Jian‐rong
Published: November 2017

According to much research, neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in Alzheimer disease (AD) are correlated with alternations of neurotrophic factors such as nerve growth factor, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor, and glial cell–derived neurotrophic factor. The experimental illumination of neural stem cell (NSC) transplantation to eliminate AD symptoms is being explored frequently, and we have acknowledged that neurotrophic factors may play a pivotal role in cognitive improvement. However, the relation between the reversal of cognitive deficits after NSC transplantation and directed alternations of neurotrophic factors is not clearly expounded. Meanwhile, reduced inflammatory response, promoted vessel density, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can be reflections of improvement in cerebrovascular function. Three weeks after NSC transplantation, spatial learning and memory function in NSC‐injected (Tg‐NSC) mice were significantly improved compared with vehicle‐injected (Tg‐Veh) mice. Meanwhile, results obtained by immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses demonstrated that the levels of neurotrophic factors, VEGF, and vessel density in the cortex of Tg‐NSC mice were significantly enhanced compared with Tg‐Veh mice, while the levels of proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and IL‐6 were significantly decreased. Our results suggest that elevated concentrations of neurotrophic factors probably play a critical role in rescuing cognitive dysfunction in APP/PS1 transgenic mice after NSC transplantation, and neurotrophic factors may improve cerebrovascular function by means such as reducing inflammatory response and promoting angiogenesis.
Histamine modulates spinal motoneurons and locomotor circuits
Authors: Coslovich Tamara , Brumley Michele R. , D'Angelo Giuseppe , Della Mora Alberto , Swann Hillary E. , Ortolani Fulvia , Taccola Giuliano
Published: November 2017

Spinal motoneurons and locomotor networks are regulated by monoamines, among which, the contribution of histamine has yet to be fully addressed. The present study investigates histaminergic regulation of spinal activity, combining intra‐ and extracellular electrophysiological recordings from neonatal rat spinal cord in vitro preparations. Histamine dose‐dependently and reversibly generated motoneuron depolarization and action potential firing. Histamine (20 µM) halved the area of dorsal root reflexes and always depolarized motoneurons. The majority of cells showed a transitory repolarization, while 37% showed a sustained depolarization maintained with intense firing. Extracellularly, histamine depolarized ventral roots (VRs), regardless of blockage of ionotropic glutamate receptors. Initial, transient glutamate‐mediated bursting was synchronous among VRs, with some bouts of locomotor activity in a subgroup of preparations. After washout, the amplitude of spontaneous tonic discharges increased. No desensitization or tachyphylaxis appeared after long perfusion or serial applications of histamine. On the other hand, histamine induced single motoneuron and VR depolarization, even in the presence of tetrodotoxin (TTX). During chemically induced fictive locomotion (FL), histamine depolarized VRs. Histamine dose‐dependently increased rhythm periodicity and reduced cycle amplitude until near suppression. This study demonstrates that histamine induces direct motoneuron membrane depolarization and modulation of locomotor output, indicating new potential targets for locomotor neurorehabilitation.
Phosphorus bioavailability of sewage sludge‐based recycled fertilizers
Authors: Wollmann Iris , Gauro Ajay , Müller Torsten , Möller Kurt
Published: November 2017

Six phosphorus (P) fertilizers recycled from sewage sludge [Struvite SSL, Struvite AirPrex®, P‐RoC®, Mephrec®, Pyrolysis coal and Ash (Mg‐SSA)] were tested for their plant availability in potted soil of pH 7.2 under greenhouse conditions. The crop sequence simulated a rotation of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), maize (Zea maize L.), and ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). Other P fertilizer treatments included: Phosphate Rock (PR), Calcium dihydrogen phosphate [Ca(H2PO4)2], and an unfertilized control. Additionally, soil was regularly inoculated with two strains of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR; Pseudomonas sp. Proradix, and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens) to test their ability to increase P availability to plants. Sequential P fractionation was conducted to link the amount of readily available P in fertilizers to plant P acquisition. Shoot P content and dry matter of maize decreased in the following order: Struvite SSL ≥ Ca(H2PO4)2 > P‐RoC® ≥ Struvite AirPrex® ≥ Mephrec® > Pyrolysis coal ≥ Mg‐SSA ≥ PR ≥ unfertilized. Rhizobacteria did not affect shoot biomass or P content. The results show that red clover might have mobilized substantial amounts of P. Sequential P fractionation was not suitable to predict the efficacy of the fertilizers. Generally, the sewage sludge‐based fertilizers tested proved to be suitable alternative P sources relevant to organic farming systems. However, the efficacy of recycled fertilizers is strongly dependent on their specific production conditions.
Synchronized proxy‐based temperature reconstructions reveal mid‐ to late Holocene climate oscillations in High Arctic Svalbard
Authors: Luoto Tomi P. , Ojala Antti E. K. , Arppe Laura , Brooks Stephen J. , Kurki Eija , Oksman Mimmi , Wooller Matthew J. , Zajączkowski Marek
Published: November 2017

Existing paleoclimate data are exceedingly sparse from southern Spitsbergen, a High Arctic region predicted to experience significant environmental changes because of amplified warming. We analyzed biotic and isotopic paleolimnological proxies to reconstruct past climate from a lacustrine sediment core, with a basal age of ∼5500 a BP, in southern Spitsbergen (77°N). We used fossil Chironomidae assemblages to quantitatively reconstruct past mean July air temperatures and stable oxygen isotope values (δ18O) of these fossils to estimate changes in mean annual air temperature. These proxy records are strikingly similar and show that the coldest anomaly since the mid‐Holocene occurred between 350 and 50 cal a BP, during the ‘Little Ice Age’, whereas the warmest period in the summer temperature record occurred between 5500–5000 and ∼2000 cal a BP. Our findings indicate that the natural long‐term air temperature dynamics in our study area are most likely connected to solar minima and positive feedback mechanisms from sea‐surface temperature maxima. The results also highlight that the recent temperature increase is unprecedented in its rate with a ∼2 °C increase in the summer temperatures during the past ∼50 years.
Guidance for deriving and presenting percentage study weights in meta‐analysis of test accuracy studies
Authors: Burke Danielle L. , Ensor Joie , Snell Kym I.E. , van der Windt Danielle , Riley Richard D.
Published: November 2017

Percentage study weights in meta‐analysis reveal the contribution of each study toward the overall summary results and are especially important when some studies are considered outliers or at high risk of bias. In meta‐analyses of test accuracy reviews, such as a bivariate meta‐analysis of sensitivity and specificity, the percentage study weights are not currently derived. Rather, the focus is on representing the precision of study estimates on receiver operating characteristic plots by scaling the points relative to the study sample size or to their standard error. In this article, we recommend that researchers should also provide the percentage study weights directly, and we propose a method to derive them based on a decomposition of Fisher information matrix. This method also generalises to a bivariate meta‐regression so that percentage study weights can also be derived for estimates of study‐level modifiers of test accuracy. Application is made to two meta‐analyses examining test accuracy: one of ear temperature for diagnosis of fever in children and the other of positron emission tomography for diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. These highlight that the percentage study weights provide important information that is otherwise hidden if the presentation only focuses on precision based on sample size or standard errors. Software code is provided for Stata, and we suggest that our proposed percentage weights should be routinely added on forest and receiver operating characteristic plots for sensitivity and specificity, to provide transparency of the contribution of each study toward the results. This has implications for the PRISMA–diagnostic test accuracy guidelines that are currently being produced.
Management, outcomes, and prognostic factors of ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Moris Demetrios , Chakedis Jeffery , Sun Steven H. , Spolverato Gaya , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Ntanasis‐Stathopoulos Ioannis , Spartalis Eleftherios , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: November 2017

Ruptured hepatocellular (rHCC) is a rare but life‐threatening presentation that often requires acute intervention. In this systematic review we identified 67 eligible studies reporting on 4941 patients with rHCC. Here we present the treatment approaches for the management of rHCC both in the acute setting with regards to management of hemorrhage, as well long‐term with regards to oncological treatment.
Three‐dimensional endoscopy for endoscopic salvage nasopharyngectomy: Preliminary report of experience
Authors: Chan Jimmy Yu Wai , Wei William Ignace
Published: November 2017

Background

Prospective, observational study to assess the efficacy of salvage nasopharyngectomy for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) via the endoscopic endonasal approach using a three‐dimensional (3D) high‐definition endoscopic system.

Methods

Between 2016 and 2017, 30 patients with recurrent NPC were recruited. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and perioperative data were recorded. Instrument ergonomics and perceived advantages were assessed by the operating, assisting, and observing surgeons.

Results

The majority (70%) of patients received radiotherapy alone as the initial treatment for NPC, and tumor recurred after a mean interval of 16.8 months. The tumor (T) classifications of the recurrent (R) tumors were: RT1: 46.7%; RT2: 33.3%; and RT3: 20.0%. The mean operative time was 293.3 minutes, and no conversion to open approach was necessary. Internal carotid artery dissection was required in nine patients, and the resection and repair of dura was required in six patients. The most common method of reconstruction was free vastus lateralis flap (46.7%). Microscopically clear resection margins were achieved in 73.3% of patients. The mean hospital stay was 6.8 days. There was no hospital mortality. One patient developed minor secondary hemorrhage, whereas the other developed transient contralateral vocal cord paralysis. On quantitative assessment, surgeons noticed a significant advantage of the 3D system with regard to depth and size perception, anatomy identification, and hand–eye coordination, whereas there was no significant difference in terms of strain sensation and dizziness.

Conclusion

The 3D high‐definition endoscopic system improves the precision of endoscopic nasopharyngectomy, particularly when dissection of the internal carotid artery and dura is required.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1386–1391, 2018
The contribution of cochlear implants to postural stability
Authors: Shayman Corey S. , Mancini Martina , Weaver Tyler S. , King Laurie A. , Hullar Timothy E.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To determine whether spatial auditory cues provided by cochlear implants can improve postural balance in adults with severe deafness.

Methods

In the presence of spatial white noise, 13 adult cochlear implantees wore head and lumbar‐mounted inertial sensors while standing in the dark for 30 seconds in two auditory conditions: hearing assistive devices on and off.

Results

Stability was improved with implants on (aided condition) compared to off (unaided condition) with respect to differences in mean head velocity (Cohen's d = 0.912, P = 0.006) as well as to root mean square (RMS) acceleration (Cohen's d = 0.456, P = 0.048). This was particularly evident in measures of anteroposterior accelerations (mean difference = 0.034 m/s2; Cohen's d = 0.612; P = 0.011).

Conclusion

The decrease in RMS head acceleration and velocity while wearing cochlear implants suggests that they could be recognized as balance implants in addition to auditory implants. The clinical importance of this finding in various patient populations remains to be determined.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1676–1680, 2018
Inner‐volume echo volumar imaging (IVEVI) for robust fetal brain imaging
Authors: Nunes Rita G. , Ferrazzi Giulio , Price Anthony N. , Hutter Jana , Gaspar Andreia S. , Rutherford Mary A. , Hajnal Joseph V.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Fetal functional MRI studies using conventional 2‐dimensional single‐shot echo‐planar imaging sequences may require discarding a large data fraction as a result of fetal and maternal motion. Increasing the temporal resolution using echo volumar imaging (EVI) could provide an effective alternative strategy. Echo volumar imaging was combined with inner volume (IV) imaging (IVEVI) to locally excite the fetal brain and acquire full 3‐dimensional images, fast enough to freeze most fetal head motion.

Methods

IVEVI was implemented by modifying a standard multi‐echo echo‐planar imaging sequence. A spin echo with orthogonal excitation and refocusing ensured localized excitation. To introduce
weighting and to save time, the k‐space center was shifted relative to the spin echo. Both single and multi‐shot variants were tested. Acoustic noise was controlled by adjusting the amplitude and switching frequency of the readout gradient. Image‐based shimming was used to minimize B0 inhomogeneities within the fetal brain.

Results

The sequence was first validated in an adult. Eight fetuses were scanned using single‐shot IVEVI at a 3.5 × 3.5 × 5.0 mm3 resolution with a readout duration of 383 ms. Multishot IVEVI showed reduced geometric distortions along the second phase‐encode direction.

Conclusions

Fetal EVI remains challenging. Although effective echo times comparable to the
values of fetal cortical gray matter at 3 T could be achieved, controlling acoustic noise required longer readouts, leading to substantial distortions in single‐shot images. Although multishot variants enabled us to reduce susceptibility‐induced geometric distortions, sensitivity to motion was increased. Future studies should therefore focus on improvements to multishot variants. Magn Reson Med 80:279–285, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Modification of TiO2 with graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide; enhancing photocatalytic activity of TiO2 for removal of remazol Black B
Authors: Sheshmani Shabnam , Nayebi Maryam
Published: November 2017

Modified titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles with graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were prepared using the chemisorption process. The characterization was carried out by IR, X‐ray diffraction spectra, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and DRS techniques. The photocatalytic activity of GO/TiO2 and rGO/TiO2 nanocomposites was evaluated in photodegradation of Remazol Black B (RBB). The effects of various parameters, such as pH, adsorbent dosage, dye concentration, and contact time, were studied in a batch system. The results showed that GO/TiO2 and rGO/TiO2 nanocomposites can extend the absorption of light to the visible region and makes the photocatalysts active under visible‐light irradiation. Photocatalytic activity clearly showed that the modification of TiO2 nanoparticles by GO and rGO enhanced the degradation of RBB from the aqueous solution (99.9% dye removal). Photodegradation processes fitted well with the pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model (R2 > 0.99). POLYM. COMPOS., 40:210–216, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Double band gap gradients in sequentially processed photovoltaic absorbers from the Cu(In,Ga)Se2‐ZnSe pseudobinary system
Authors: Kondrotas Rokas , Oliva Florian , Alcobe Xavier , Izquierdo‐Roca Victor , Perez‐Rodriguez Alejandro , Saucedo Edgardo , Pistor Paul
Published: November 2017

Wide band gap Cu(In,Ga)Se2‐ZnSe (CIGZSe) thin films have been synthesized using a sequential process, with the objective to demonstrate the possibility to tune the band gap and introduce double gradients playing with the content of Ga at the back and Zn at the front. In a first approach, we start by varying the 3‐valent cationic composition of the system, and then we modify the reactive annealing conditions in order to understand and control the elemental gradients. Structural, compositional, and morphological properties of the corresponding absorbers were analysed by X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, energy dispersive spectrometer, Auger spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Solar cells were fabricated and characterized, focusing on the identification of the most promising cationic composition. The compounds from the complex Cu(In,Ga)Se2‐ZnSe system can adopt either the chalcopyrite or sphalerite phases depending on the [Zn]/[metals] and [Ga]/([Ga] + [In]) ratios. We demonstrate that Ga naturally diffuses towards the back region forming a Ga‐rich, wide band gap chalcopyrite phase at the rear contact, as is commonly observed for a Cu(In,Ga)Se2 synthesized via selenization process. On the contrary, Zn is preferably accumulated at the surface, forming wide band gap sphalerite Cu(In,Ga)ZnSe3 phases with high Zn and very low Ga contents at the surface. This opens an additional way to control the surface's band gap. With this approach, the formation of a doubly graded band gap profile with Ga‐rich layers at the back and Zn‐rich layers at the front is demonstrated in a single selenization step, showing promising efficiency and open circuit voltage values (up to 6.7% and 709 mV, respectively).
Theoretical study on adsorption properties of methyl methacrylate and its molecular chain within metal‐organic frameworks
Authors: Ye Feihong , Xu Biao , Lu Tao , Zhou Xinhui , Lu Yunqing , Wang Jin
Published: November 2017

Utilizing metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) as a “polymerization container” is a very effective method to prepare oriented and therefore birefringent polymer materials. In particular, the adsorption of polymer monomers and molecular chains within MOFs has a profound impact on the orientation of polymer chains. In this work, a theoretical study on the adsorption properties of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and its molecular chain within MOFs has been conducted by employing a combination of molecular dynamics, density functional theory, and Monte Carlo method, where 2 MOFs, [Zn2(1,4‐benzenedicarboxylate)2triethylenediamine]n and [Zn2(4,4′‐biphenyldicarboxylate)2triethylenediamine]n, were chosen. The corresponding number and degree of orientation of adsorbed molecules in these 2 MOFs were obtained from the simulations. The calculation results revealed 3 factors that affect the adsorption and orientation of MMA monomers in MOF pore channels. First, as the walls of the MOF pores are polar surfaces and consist of metal ions and organic ligands, the electrostatic interaction between the MOF channels and polar MMA molecules promotes the adsorption and orientation of the MMA monomers within the pore channel. Second, the electrostatic interactions between monomers can reduce the intermolecular gaps, which similarly assist in their orientation. Last, the relative sizes of the MOF pores and the monomers are also relevant. When the sizes of the MOF channels and monomers are similar, the molecular chains show a higher degree of orientation. The results and the findings of this work could provide predictive methods for selecting polymeric monomers or MOFs that may be ideal for the control of polymer chain orientation.
Relationship between exercise capacity and glucose tolerance in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Foster Karla , Huang Guixia , Zhang Nanhua , Crisalli Joseph , Chini Barbara , Amin Raouf , Elder Deborah
Published: November 2017

Background

Improved exercise capacity (EC) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT) are independently associated with favorable outcomes in CF, however, little information on this relationship exists in patients with CF.

Methods

Cardiopulmonary exercise tests, oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), and HbA1c values measured within a 12‐month period were evaluated on 83 pediatric patients diagnosed with CF. Patients were categorized as having NGT, abnormal glucose tolerance (AGT), or CF‐related diabetes (CFRD).

Results

EC decreased as severity of glucose intolerance increased across NGT, AGT, and CFRD groups (P = 0.02). Compared to patients with NGT, patients with CFRD had lower peak VO2 mL/kg/min (33.0 ± 7.3 vs 41.3 ± 9.4, P = 0.01), lower VO2% (81 ± 20 vs 93 ± 17, P = 0.03), and higher HbA1c (6.9 ± 1.7 vs 5.4 ± 0.4, P < 0.01). There was a positive association with age and FEV1% with EC in the 17 patients with CFRD. In the 66 patients without diabetes, peak EC was positively associated with FEV1% and negatively associated with age, fasting insulin, and insulin 120 min. After accounting for age and FEV1%, multivariate analyses indicated that insulin and glucose values at 120 min predicted EC.

Conclusions

These data provide evidence that poor glucose tolerance is associated with lower EC in pediatric patients with CF. There was a significant relationship between glucose and insulin values obtained by OGTT with EC in a sample of non‐diabetic patients with preserved lung function. Future studies are warranted to confirm these findings and investigate the potential role of exercise in the management or prevention of CFRD.
Localization of the T‐cell response to RSV infection is altered in infant mice
Authors: Eichinger Katherine M. , Kosanovich Jessica L. , Empey Kerry M.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections worldwide, causing disproportionate morbidity and mortality in infants and children. Infants with stronger Th1 responses have less severe disease, yet little is known about the infant T‐cell response within the air space. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that RSV infected infant mice would have quantitative and qualitative deficiencies in CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell populations isolated from the bronchoalveolar lavage when compared to adults and that local delivery of IFN‐γ would increase airway CD4+ Tbet+ and CD8+ Tbet+ T‐cell responses.

Methods

We compared the localization of T‐cell responses in RSV‐infected infant and adult mice and investigated the effects of local IFN‐γ administration on infant cellular immunity.

Results

Adult CD8+ CD44HI and CD4+ CD44HI Tbet+ T‐cells accumulated in the alveolar space whereas CD4+ CD44HI Tbet+ T‐cells were evenly distributed between the infant lung tissue and airway and infant lungs contained higher frequencies of CD8+ T‐cells. Delivery of IFN‐γ to the infant airway failed to increase the accumulation of T‐cells in the airspace and unexpectedly reduced CD4+ CD44HI Tbet+ T‐cells. However, intranasal IFN‐γ increased RSV F protein‐specific CD8+ T‐cells in the alveolar space.

Conclusion

Together, these data suggest that quantitative and qualitative defects exist in the infant T‐cell response to RSV but early, local IFN‐γ exposure can increase the CD8+ RSV‐specific T‐cell response.
Effects of the Trap Level in the Unintentionally Doped GaN Buffer Layer on Optimized p‐GaN Gate AlGaN/GaN HEMTs
Authors: Ge Mei , Cai Qing , Zhang Baohua , Chen Dunjun , Hu Liqun , Xue Junjun , Lu Hai , Zhang Rong , Zheng Youdou
Published: November 2017

This research investigates the impacts of the AlGaN barrier layer thickness and the Al mole fraction on p‐GaN gate AlGaN/GaN HEMTs and presents an optimized structure. Based on 2‐D drift‐diffusion simulation, the effects of the trap level in the UID GaN buffer layer on the transfer and output characteristics of the optimized device are described. The energies of the trap levels are set at 0.28, 0.33, 0.4, 0.58, and 0.9 eV below the conduction band minimum, respectively. The depth of the trap level is found to influence the off‐state leakage current and on‐state ID,max. The Shockley–Read–Hall recombination model for a single trap level is used to analyze the impact of different trap levels in the UID GaN buffer on p‐GaN gate AlGaN/GaN HEMTs.
The Elastic Uniaxial Properties of a Center Symmetric Honeycomb with Curved Cell Walls: Effect of Density and Curvature
Authors: Harkati El Haddi , Daoudi Nour El‐Houda , Abaidia Chames Eddine , Bezazi Abderrezak , Scarpa Fabrizio
Published: November 2017

We propose in this paper analytical and numerical models that describe the in‐plane uniaxial elastic properties (Young's moduli and Poisson's ratios) of a honeycomb structure with curved walls. We perform a parametric analysis of the mechanical performance of this honeycomb also by taking into account the different types of deformations acting inside the cell walls. The curved wall honeycomb possesses higher magnitudes of the Poisson's ratio ν12 in the auxetic configuration compared to classical center symmetric configuration with straight cell wall. The presence of the curvature also allows creating configurations with positive Poisson's ratio even for negative internal cell angles, and makes this honeycomb design attractive for mechanical tailoring.