bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Need for closure and compensatory rule‐based perception: The role of information consistency
Authors: Dragon Piotr , Kossowska Małgorzata
Published: May 2018

When making comparisons, people tend to use routinized standards, rules, and knowledge structures. Compensatory rules (e.g., “if competent, then cold”, “if incompetent, then warm”) allow for the quick and easy evaluation of groups when they are compared. We claim that the application of these rules is especially attractive for people who are motivated to seek quick and firm answers (people high in the need for closure—NFC). However, we assume that when people are confronted with expectancy‐inconsistent information, higher levels of NFC lead to a lower reliance on these rules. This is because the inconsistency may serve as a signal that the rules no longer provide guidance on how to act. We demonstrated these effects in three studies set in different group contexts, where we manipulated expectancy‐consistent and expectancy‐inconsistent information. These findings allow for a more comprehensive view of the dynamic and diverse effects of NFC.
Probing the Martensitic Microstructure of Magnetocaloric Heusler Films by Synchrotron Diffraction
Authors: Schwabe Stefan , Schleicher Benjamin , Niemann Robert , Hühne Ruben , Walter Peter , Nielsch Kornelius , Waske Anja , Fähler Sebastian
Published: May 2018

First‐order, magnetocaloric materials are promising for energy efficient solid‐state cooling because of their high entropy changes, but they have the drawback of a hysteresis due to the nucleation and growth of the involved phases. Here, synchrotron based X‐ray diffraction is used to investigate epitaxial Ni−Mn−Ga−Co thin films grown on Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)0.72Ti0.28O3(PMN‐PT). This integral method is used to test several hypotheses regarding structure and orientation of the martensite, whose nucleation was proposed to be the decisive contribution to hysteresis in Heusler materials. The measurements are compared to a recently proposed model of the martensitic nuclei, combining the phenomenological martensite theory with the adaptive concept. This investigation demonstrates that the diffraction patterns are consistent with a martensitic nucleus built from 8 variants forminga‐blaminates. Additionally, it is shown that in accordance with the surface morphology of these films only a subset of nuclei occur, namely those needed to form type X martensite.
Investigation of Diamine Cross‐Linker on Semi‐IPNs of BPPO/SPEEK Membranes for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Liu Xupo , Zhang Yunfeng , Chen Yazhou , Li Cuicui , Dong Jiaming , Wang Jiaying , Yang Zehui , Cheng Hansong
Published: May 2018

Low methanol permeability is one of the most critical factors for proton exchange membranes utilized in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). Here, sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) polymer chains are interpenetrated into the semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs) constructed by the alkylation reaction between bromobenzyl groups of bromomethylated poly(phenylene oxide) and amine groups of 2,2′‐(ethylenedioxy)bis(ethylamine) cross‐linker. The influences of crosslinking network contents on the key properties of SPEEK membranes are systematically investigated. Dimensional stability and methanol‐permeability resistance are enhanced as the increase of the crosslinking network contents. The relative selectivity is significantly improved due to the largely reduced methanol permeability. The DMFC assembled by the membrane with 20 wt.% crosslinking networks demonstrates four times higher power output than the Nafion 117 DMFC in 5 M methanol solution.
Solution‐Processable Design of Fiber‐Shaped Wearable Zn//Ni(OH)2 Battery
Authors: Chen Ruyi , Shi Peipei , Gong Yujiao , Yu Chenyang , Hua Li , Li Li , Zhou Jinyuan , Xu Ting , Zhang Yani , Sun Gengzhi
Published: May 2018

The rising of flexible and potable electronics urgently calls for matchable and miniaturized energy storage system as power supply. Herein, we develop a solution‐processable method to fabricate Ni@Ni(OH)2 fiber to design an all‐solid‐state fiber‐shaped Zn//Ni(OH)2 battery. This battery exhibits a high open circuit voltage of 1.75 V which is close to the theoretical value, considerable discharge capacity of 704 μAh cm−3 at current density of 0.5 A g−1, good rate capability with 75 % capacity retention when the discharge current increases from 0.5 A g−1 to 5 A g−1 and good cycling stability (92 % capacity retention after 2000 charge‐discharge cycles). Furthermore, the device performance remains unchanged under bending conditions, showing good flexibility and stability. It is believed that our design provides a promising strategy to fabricate long fiber‐shaped Zn//Ni(OH)2 battery as power supply for wearable electronics in future practical applications.
Bioaccumulation and toxicity of uranium, arsenic, and nickel to juvenile and adult Hyalella azteca in spiked sediment bioassays
Authors: Goulet Richard R. , Thompson Patsy
Published: May 2018

Uranium (U) mining and milling release arsenic (As), nickel (Ni) and U to receiving waters, which accumulate in sediments. The objective of the present study was to investigate if As, Ni, and U concentrations in tissue residue of Hyalella azteca, overlying water, sediment porewater, and solids could predict juvenile and adult survival and growth in conditions similar to lake sediments downstream of U mines and mills. We conducted 14-d static sediment toxicity tests spiked with U, As, and Ni salts. For U, we spiked uranyl nitrate with sodium bicarbonate to limit U precipitation once in contact with circumneutral sediment. The median lethal concentrations for As, Ni, and U of juveniles and adults based on measured concentrations in sediments were 134 and 165 μg/g, 370 and 787 μg/g, and 48 and 214 μg/g, respectively. Adult survival and growth linearly decreased with increasing bioaccumulation. For juveniles, metal accumulation linearly predicted survival. We calculated median lethal body concentrations for juveniles and adults of 5 and 36 μg As/g, 14 and 49 μg Ni/g, and 0.4 and 1.0 μg U/g. The concentrations of As, Ni, and U in tissue residue leading to a 20% decrease in adult growth were 32 μg As/g, 44 μg Ni/g, and 1 μg U/g. Overall, the present study showed that U was the most toxic element, followed by As and Ni; that juveniles were more sensitive to the 3 metals tested than adults; and that threshold body concentrations can support assessment of benthic invertebrate community impairment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:2340–2349. © 2018 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Delivery of ROS Generating Anthraquinones Using Reduction‐Responsive Peptide‐Based Nanoparticles
Authors: Richard Pascal U. , Craciun Ioana , Gaitzsch Jens , Weiner Lev , Palivan Cornelia G.
Published: May 2018

In order to limit the side effects associated with antitumor drugs such as doxorubicin, nanosized drug‐delivery systems capable of selectively delivering and releasing the drug in the diseased tissue are required. We describe nanoparticles (NPs), self‐assembled from a reduction responsive amphiphilic peptide, capable of entrapping high amounts of a redox active anticancer drug candidate and releasing it in presence of a reducing agent. This system shows a high entrapment efficiency with up to 15 mg drug per gram of peptide (5.8 mol‐%). Treatment of the NPs with reducing agent results in the disassembly of the NPs and release of the drug molecules. A reduction in cell viability is observed at drug concentrations above 250 nm in HEK293T and HeLa cell lines. This drug delivery system has potential for targeting tumor sites via the EPR effect while taking advantage of the increased reduction potential in tumor microenvironment.
Numerical modelling of stream–aquifer interaction: Quantifying the impact of transient streambed permeability and aquifer heterogeneity
Authors: Zhou Dan , Zhang Ye , Gianni Guillaume , Lichtner Peter , Engelhardt Irina
Published: May 2018

Stream–aquifer interaction plays a vital role in the water cycle, and a proper study of this interaction is needed for understanding groundwater recharge, contaminants migration, and for managing surface water and groundwater resources. A model‐based investigation of a field experiment in a riparian zone of the Schwarzbach river, a tributary of the Rhine River in Germany, was conducted to understand stream–aquifer interaction under alternative gaining and losing streamflow conditions. An equivalent streambed permeability, estimated by inverting aquifer responses to flood waves, shows that streambed permeability increased during infiltration of stream water to aquifer and decreased during exfiltration. Aquifer permeability realizations generated by multiple‐point geostatistics exhibit a high degree of heterogeneity and anisotropy. A coupled surface water groundwater flow model was developed incorporating the time‐varying streambed permeability and heterogeneous aquifer permeability realizations. The model was able to reproduce varying pressure heads at two observation wells near the stream over a period of 55 days. A Monte Carlo analysis was also carried out to simulate groundwater flow, its age distribution, and the release of a hypothetical wastewater plume into the aquifer from the stream. Results of this uncertainty analysis suggest (a) stream–aquifer exchange flux during the infiltration periods was constrained by aquifer permeability; (b) during exfiltration, this flux was constrained by the reduced streambed permeability; (c) the effect of temporally variable streambed permeability and aquifer heterogeneity were found important to improve the accurate capture of the uncertainty; and (d) probabilistic infiltration paths in the aquifer reveal that such pathways and the associated prediction of the extent of the contaminant plume are highly dependent on aquifer heterogeneity.
A resolved discrepancy between multiplex PCR and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification by targeted next‐generation sequencing discloses a novel partial exonic deletion in the Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene
Authors: Liu Chang , Deng Huiting , Yang Cheng , Li Xixi , Zhu Yanrong , Chen Xiangfa , Li Hui , Li Shuo , Cui Hao , Zhang Xiaoyan , Tan Xiaoyue , Li Dong , Zhang Zhujun
Published: May 2018

Background

The genetic diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has been complicated by the large size of the gene and its heterogeneous mutational spectrum. Multiplex PCR and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) are two well‐established mutation screening methods. Here, we applied targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) to clarify discrepant results between multiplex PCR and MLPA in a Chinese patient with DMD.

Methods

MLPA was performed to confirm multiplex PCR results obtained previously. Targeted NGS was then used to analyze the full‐length DMD gene including introns.

Results

Multiplex PCR had previously identified an apparent deletion of exon 43 in the patient with DMD, but current MLPA indicated that exon 43 was present. Targeted NGS to clarify the genetic diagnosis identified a novel mutation, c.6241_c.6290 + 1109del1159insAC, which caused partial deletion of exon 43. This mutation removed the annealing sequence of the exon 43 reverse primer in multiplex PCR but had no influence on the hybridization site of the MLPA probe. Therefore, the discrepancy between the two methods was caused by partial exonic deletion that escaped MLPA detection.

Conclusion

Targeted NGS disclosed a novel partial exonic deletion in the DMD gene as the cause of discrepancy between multiplex PCR and MLPA. Targeted NGS could be used to provide a more accurate genetic diagnosis of DMD, particularly in cases of partial exonic deletions, which will be of benefit in patient management and the identification of disease carriers.
Automated analysis for differentiating leukocytes in body fluids using the software “biological liquid application” on ADVIA2120/2120i hematology analyzer
Authors: Falda Alessandra , Doretto Paolo
Published: May 2018

Introduction

We evaluated the “Biological liquid application ADVIA2120” software for differentiating the percentage of polymorphonucleated (%PMN) and mononucleated cells (%MN) in ascitic, pleural, and peritoneal dialysis (PD) fluid.

Methods

Biological fluid test results of 193 specimens obtained by automated methods (87 with and 106 without dedicated software) were compared with May‐Grünwald‐Giemsa (MGG) stained blood smears. Limit of detection (LoD) and quantitation (LoQ), repeatability, and inaccuracy were assessed.

Results

Good agreement between the automated methods with dedicated software and the manual method for %PMN and %MN was obtained for leukocyte differentiation in ascitic and pleural fluids, while correlation with the manual method for PD fluid was poor, both with and without the dedicated software.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that the automated differentiation of leukocytes with dedicated software on the ADVIA2120 analyzer for body fluids is a good alternative to the microscopic reference method for peritoneal and pleural specimens, but not for PD fluids.
MALDI coupled to modified traveling wave ion mobility mass spectrometry for fast enantiomeric determination
Authors: Nachtigall Fabiane M. , Rojas Moises , Santos Leonardo S.
Published: May 2018

In this work, the use of MALDI traveling wave ion mobility spectrometry‐mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TWIMS‐MS) for stereoselective structural analysis of direct cleavage and identification of 2‐substituted piperidines obtained through solid‐phase asymmetric synthesis by using heterogeneous 8‐phenylmenthyl‐based chiral auxiliary resins. A strategy for gas‐phase chiral and structural characterization of small molecular weight molecules by using MALDI‐IMS‐MS technique is discussed. Because both MALDI and IMS do not directly offer chiral resolution, an easy methodology by adding a chiral phase is described to carry out in situ online ion/molecule complexation with different chiral analytes inside the mass spectrometer. Piperidine enantiomers were resolved, and separation obtained shows dependence of surface areas. To corroborate this assumption and elucidate the separation mechanism to accomplish an analytical technique by which fast determination of the chirality of molecules may be determined for a wide range organic compound applications, it was performed DFT calculations to determine the cross‐sectional areas of proton‐bound dimer complexes. Drift times are affected by cross‐sectional areas, correlating bigger times with bigger molecular volumes during the ion mobility experiments of proton‐bound dimer complexes.
Stabilization of the lumbar spine by spinal muscle forces producing compressive follower loads: 3‐dimensional computational study
Authors: Foresto Tianjiao , Song InO , Kim Byeong Sam , Lim Tae‐Hong
Published: May 2018

Axial compressive loads whose direction changes along the spinal curvature (so called compressive follower loads (CFLs)) was postulated as a normal physiological load in the lumbar spine in the literature. Computational analyses were conducted in this study using finite element and optimization models of the spinal system incorporating 244 fascicles of back muscles. It was feasible to find optimum solutions for spinal muscle forces generating CFLs in the lumbar spine in 3‐D postures of neutral standing, flexion 40°, extension 10°, axial rotation 10°, or lateral bending 30°. FE analyses demonstrated that the lumbar spine can be in a stable condition not under all CFL generating muscle forces but under those producing CFLs along a curve parallel to the spinal curvature located in the vicinity of the base spinal curve constructed by connecting the geometrical centers of the vertebral bodies. It was also possible to estimate the stable range of the relative location of such CFL curve to the base spinal curve. These results suggest that the lumbar spine in various 3‐D postures can be stabilized by spinal muscles that generate CFLs in the spine, which at least in part supports the hypothesis of CFLs as a physiological load in the lumbar spine. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3004–3012, 2018.
Fracture healing in a collagen‐induced arthritis rat model: Radiology and histology evidence
Authors: Hu Yiping , Zhang Tiantian , Huang Huan , Cheng Wenxiang , Lai Yuxiao , Bai Xueling , Chen Jianhai , Yue Ye , Zheng Zhengtan , Guo Chengshan , Qin Ling , Zhang Peng
Published: May 2018

This research was designed to investigate the fracture healing pattern in a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) rat model. A mid‐shaft femur fracture (RA + F) model and normal fracture (NF) model as control were established. Micro‐CT, H&E staining, TB staining, SO staining, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphates, and immunohistochemistry test were performed. In the micro‐CT images and H&E stains, fracture gaps were evident in the RA + F group 4 and 8 weeks after fracture. In detail, the bone mineral density, the ratio of bone volume to tissue volume, and trabecular thickness of the RA + F group were significantly lower than those of the NF group at all time points. Trabecular number value was significantly lower in the RA + F group 4 weeks after surgery in comparison with that of the NF group. Furthermore, the structure model index test result of the RA + F group was significantly higher than that of the NF group at all time points. TB staining and SO staining test results showed that the NF group had more cartilaginous callus in the earlier stage of bone healing process (4 weeks), and less cartilage callus formation in the later stage (8 weeks) in comparison with that of the RA + F group. Osteoclasts statistics score in the NF group were obviously lower than that of the RA + F group at all time points. MMP‐3 and OPN protein levels of the fracture area in the RA + F group were significantly higher than those in the NF group. This study improves the understanding of the bone healing characteristics in patients with RA. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2876–2885, 2018.
Comparative evaluation of subgingivally delivered 1.2% rosuvastatin and 1% metformin gel in treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Pankaj Dileep , Sahu Ipshita , Kurian Ida Grace , Pradeep A. R.
Published: May 2018

Background

The aim of this study is to explore and compare the clinical efficacy of locally delivered 1.2% Rosuvastatin (RSV) and 1% Metformin (MF) gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) in the treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis patients.

Methods

A total of 90 volunteers were randomly assigned to three treatment groups; 1) SRP plus placebo gel; 2) SRP plus 1.2% RSV gel; 3) SRP plus 1% MF gel. Clinical parameters like modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI), plaque index (PI), pocket probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded at baseline, 6 and 12 months and the radiologic assessment of bone defect fill was performed at 6 and 12 months.

Results

mSBI, BP, PD, and CAL were improved in all the groups, however mean reductions in PD, CAL gain, and percentage of bone fill was found to be higher in RSV and MF groups than placebo group at all visits.

Conclusion

Adjunctive use of locally delivered 1.2% RSV and 1% MF gel stimulates a significant PD reduction, CAL gains and improved bone fill when compared with placebo gel. Results were significantly better with the use of 1.2% RSV gel than 1% MF gel.
Association of clinical measures of periodontal disease with blood pressure and hypertension among postmenopausal women
Authors: Gordon Joshua H. , LaMonte Michael J. , Genco Robert J. , Zhao Jiwei , Cimato Thomas R. , Hovey Kathleen M. , Wactawski‐Wende Jean
Published: May 2018

Background

Hypertension and periodontal disease are common conditions among postmenopausal women. Periodontal disease has been found associated with hypertension in previous studies, but data in postmenopausal women is limited.

Methods

We assessed the cross‐sectional associations of clinically measured periodontal disease with prevalent hypertension and measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) among 1341 postmenopausal women enrolled in the Buffalo Osteoporosis and Periodontal Disease (OsteoPerio) study, an ancillary study of the Women's Health Initiative‐Observational Study.

Results

Clinical attachment level (CAL) and number of teeth missing were positively associated with SBP among those not taking antihypertensive medication in crude and multivariable adjusted linear regression models (both P < 0.05). Alveolar crestal height (ACH) and gingival bleeding on probing were associated with higher SBP in crude but not multivariable adjusted models. Neither probing pocket depth (PPD) nor severity categories of periodontitis were associated with SBP. Number of teeth missing was significantly associated with prevalent hypertension in crude and multivariable adjusted models (OR = 1.14, per 5 teeth; P = 0.04). ACH was associated with prevalent hypertension in crude but not adjusted models. CAL, PPD, gingival bleeding, and severity of periodontitis were not significantly associated with prevalent hypertension.

Conclusions

These results suggest that measures of oral health including CAL and number of teeth missing are associated with blood pressure in postmenopausal women. Prospective studies are needed to further investigate these associations and the potential underlying mechanisms for these relationships.
Prospective study of the impact of peri‐implant soft tissue properties on patient‐reported and clinically assessed outcomes
Authors: Bonino Francesca , Steffensen Bjorn , Natto Zuhair , Hur Yong , Holtzman Lucrezia Paternò , Weber Hans‐Peter
Published: May 2018

Background

It has been proposed that the presence of a zone of keratinized mucosa (KM) around implants is associated with less discomfort during brushing and improved esthetic outcomes. Therefore, mucogingival procedures have been recommended for patients with discomfort during brushing, and to enhance esthetic results around implants without KM. However, no study has systematically assessed and compared discomfort during brushing, patient soft tissue esthetic satisfaction, and other clinical parameters between implants with and without KM.

Methods

Group 1 included patients with implants surrounded by KM, whereas patients in Group 2 had no KM around implants. Patient discomfort during brushing and esthetic satisfaction were measured with a visual analog scale and compared between the 2 groups using a mixed model. Clinical width of KM, probing depth, peri‐implant recession, plaque index, and bleeding on probing were compared within and between groups 3 and 6 months following implant restoration.

Results

Twenty‐four patients (12 in each group) were evaluated at the 3‐ and 6‐month follow‐up visits. Patients without peri‐implant KM were less satisfied with the esthetics of the soft tissue around their implants (P < 0.01). However, lack of KM was not associated with discomfort during brushing. In Group 1, width of KM was significantly increased after 6 months (P < 0.01). There was greater recession around implants without KM after 3 months (P < 0.01), but not after 6 months.

Conclusions

Patients reported that presence or absence of keratinized mucosa did not affect discomfort associated with brushing. Yet, esthetically, patients preferred implants with a zone of keratinized mucosa.
Characterization of novel mutants of hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) with various depths of purple grain color and antioxidant capacity
Authors: Hong Min Jeong , Kim Dae Yeon , Nam Bo Mi , Ahn Joon‐Woo , Kwon Soon‐Jae , Seo Yong Weon , Kim Jin‐Baek
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Wheat grain is recognized as a rich source of nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, fibers and antioxidants. In recent years, the focus of wheat breeding has been to increase the content of bioactive compounds to improve human health and prevent diseases.

RESULTS

Five novel wheat mutant lines with variable seed color were developed using gamma irradiation of hexaploid wheat inbred line K4191 (purple seed color). The total anthocyanin contents of three mutant lines (L47, L167 and L925) were significantly higher than those of wild‐type lines, including K4191 and ‘Keumkang’ (white seed color). L925 showed the highest total anthocyanin content, and cyanidin‐3‐glucoside was presented as the most predominant anthocyanin. Compared with ‘Keumkang’, the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes was significantly up‐regulated in purple seed mutant lines. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in L925 extracts. The expression of a few antioxidant‐related genes and total anthocyanin content were positively correlated with antioxidant capacity. These data suggest that anthocyanins and phenolic compounds in wheat grains contribute to the antioxidant potential.

CONCLUSION

Purple grain color is associated with higher anthocyanin accumulation and antioxidant capacity in wheat. Wheat mutants developed in this study may serve as a valuable source of antioxidants. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Nonadditive effects of biochar amendments on soil phosphorus fractions in two contrasting soils
Authors: Xu Gang , Shao Hongbo , Zhang You , Junna Sun
Published: May 2018

Increased soil total phosphorus (P) or available P has been reported in biochar‐amended soils, although the underlying mechanisms need to be fully understood. In the present study, two contrasting soils (acidic Haplic Luvisol and alkaline Calcaric‐Fluvisol) amended with wheat straw biochar were sequentially extracted with modified Hedley method to study the P transformation in the soils. Our results showed that biochar application significantly increased (positive effects) P fractions (except for NaHCO3‐Pi and residual‐P) content in Haplic Luvisol. The increased soil microbial activity and reduced soil acidity or increased cation exchange capacity may be accounted for enhanced P transformation. The reduced NaHCO3‐Pi content may be related to P immobilization with increased soil microbial activity induced by biochar addition because the high C:P ratios of biochar (ranged from 234 to 357) suggested net P immobilization occurred when biochar was incorporated into soil. Biochar application first (4 days) increased soil NaHCO3‐Po content and then decreased it with longer incubation time (30 days). The decrease in NaHCO3‐Po suggested that the labile organic P was converted into nonlabile inorganic or organic P. In comparison with those in Haplic Luvisol, almost all P fractions showed negative effects with biochar addition into Calcaric‐Fluvisol. The results may be caused by the P precipitation or sorption with increased soil pH with biochar application. On the basis of P transformation, biochar is recommended to be used in Haplic Luvisol (acidic soil) and not to Calcaric‐Fluvisol (alkaline soil) because of the positive effects and negative effects observed on P fractions in biochar‐amended soils.
The homeodomain transcription factor MEIS1 triggers chemokine expression and is involved in CD8+ T‐lymphocyte infiltration in early stage ovarian cancer
Authors: Karapetsas Athanasios , Tokamani Maria , Evangelou Christos , Sandaltzopoulos Raphael
Published: May 2018

CD8+ T‐lymphocytes infiltration is a favorable prognostic marker in ovarian cancer. Recently we identified MEIS1 as a gene overexpressed in early stage ovarian tumors enriched for CD8+ T‐cells. Here, we report the molecular mechanism of the homeodomain transcription factor MEIS1 in lymphocyte recruitment. We validated that MEIS1 expression is a positive predictor of CD8+ T cells in early stage ovarian cancer. We showed that MEIS1 induces the expression of CCL18, CCL4, CXCL7, CCL5, CXCL1, and IL8 chemokines in cancer cells followed by their secretion in the culture medium ultimately triggering CD8+ T‐lymphocyte recruitment in vitro. Knock down of MEIS1 expression by siRNA resulted in downregulation of these chemokines. We verified that MEIS1 binds to the promoters of chemokine genes, both in vitro and in vivo. We also showed that the expression levels of MEIS1 correlated tightly with the mRNA levels of chemokines CCL4 and CCL18 in early stage ovarian cancer patient samples and served as a positive prognostic marker, as shown by Kaplan‐Meyer survival analysis. In conclusion, we propose that MEIS1 plays a pivotal role in the regulatory circuitry governing T‐cell chemo‐attraction during the early stages of ovarian cancer.
Nummularic acid, a triterpenoid, from the medicinal plant Fraxinus xanthoxyloides, induces energy crisis to suppress growth of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Younis Tahira , Khan Mohammad I. , Khan Muhammad R. , Rasul Azhar , Majid Muhammad , Adhami Vaqar M. , Mukhtar Hasan
Published: May 2018

We recently identified and characterized nummularic acid (NA) as a major chemical constituent of Fraxinus xanthoxyloides, a medicinal plant used for over hundred years in traditional medicine. In this study, we describe its potential anti‐cancer activity using prostate cancer (PCa) cells as a model. We found that NA treatment (5‐60 μM) significantly reduced the proliferation and colony formation capabilities of PCa DU145 and C4‐2 cells in a time and dose dependent manner, reduced the migratory and invasive properties and increased apoptotic cell population. Mechanistically, we found that NA treatment to PCa cells resulted in a sustained activation of adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). NA simultaneously increased acetyl CoA carboxylase phosphorylation and decreased pS6 phosphorylation, the two major substrates of AMPK. Further, NA treatment significantly elevated the cellular ADP/ATP ratio and altered glycolytic rate. We further observed a reversible decrease in oxygen consumption rate in NA treated cells when compared to the control. Finally, we performed global untargeted metabolomics which showed that NA treatment alters PCa cell metabolism at multiple sites including glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid, and glutamine metabolism which supported our observation of a possible AMPK activation. In summary, we report NA as a novel small molecule activator of AMPK that alters cellular metabolism to induce energy crisis and ultimately cancer cell death. Because of its unique mechanism NA could be potentially applicable against other cancer types.
Polymorphisms in genes related to inflammation and obesity and colorectal adenoma risk
Authors: Huang Brian Z. , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Smith Michael W. , Hoffman‐Bolton Judith , Visvanathan Kala , Platz Elizabeth A. , Joshu Corinne E.
Published: May 2018

We previously investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes related to obesity and inflammation and colorectal cancer in the CLUE II cohort. However, the relationships between these SNPs and colorectal adenomas have not been well evaluated. In a nested case‐control study of 135 incident adenoma cases and 269 matched controls in the CLUE II cohort (1989‐2000), we genotyped 17 candidate SNPs in 12 genes (PPARG, TCF7L2, ADIPOQ, LEP, IL10, CRP, TLR4, IL6, IL1B, IL8, TNF, RNASEL) and 19 tagSNPs in three genes (IL10, CRP, and TLR4). Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) for adenomas (overall and by size, histology, location, number). Polymorphisms in the inflammatory‐related genes CRP, ADIPOQ, IL6, and TLR4 were observed to be associated with adenoma risk. At rs1205 in CRP, T (minor allele) carriers had a higher risk (OR 1.67, 95%CI 1.07‐2.60; reference: CC) of adenomas overall and adenomas with aggressive characteristics. At rs1201299 in ADIPOQ, the AC genotype had a higher risk (OR 1.58, 95%CI 1.00‐2.49) of adenomas, while the minor AA genotype had a borderline inverse association (OR 0.44, 95%CI 0.18‐1.08; reference: CC). At rs1800797 in IL6, the AA genotype had a borderline inverse association (OR 0.53, 95%CI 0.27‐1.05; reference: GG). Three TLR4 tagSNPs (rs10116253, rs1927911, rs7873784) were associated with adenomas among obese participants. None of these SNPs were associated with colorectal cancer in our prior study in CLUE II, possibly suggesting a different genetic etiology for early colorectal neoplasia.
Golden ratio stack of spirals for flexible angiographic imaging: Proof of concept in congenital heart disease
Authors: Kowalik Grzegorz Tomasz , Steeden Jennifer Anne , Atkinson David , Montalt‐Tordera Javier , Mortensen Kristian Havmand , Muthurangu Vivek
Published: May 2018

Purpose

In this study, a golden ratio stack of spiral (GRASS) sequence that used both golden step and golden angle ordering was implemented. The aim was to demonstrate that GRASS acquisitions could be flexibly reconstructed as both cardiac‐gated and time‐resolved angiograms.

Methods

Image quality of time‐resolved and cardiac‐gated reconstructions of the GRASS sequence were compared to 3 conventional stack of spirals (SoS) acquisitions in an in silico model. In 10 patients, the GRASS sequence was compared to conventional breath hold angiography (BH‐MRA) in terms of image quality and for vessel measurement. Vessel measurements were also compared to cine images.

Results

In the cardiac‐gated in silico model, the image quality of GRASS was superior to regular and golden‐angle with regular step SoS approaches. In the time‐resolved model, GRASS image quality was comparable to the golden‐angle with regular step technique and superior to regular SoS acquisitions. In patients, there was no difference in qualitative image scores between GRASS and BH‐MRA, but SNR was lower. There was good agreement in vessel measurements between the GRASS reconstructions and conventional MR techniques (BH‐MRA: 29.8 ± 5.6 mm, time‐resolved GRASS‐MRA: 29.9 ± 5.4 mm, SSFP diastolic: 29.4 ± 5.8 mm, cardiac‐gated GRASS‐MRA diastolic: 29.5 ± 5.5 mm, P > 0.87).

Conclusion

We have demonstrated that the GRASS acquisition enables flexible reconstruction of the same raw data as both time‐resolved and cardiac‐gated volumes. This may enable better interrogation of anatomy in congenital heart disease.
Simultaneous T1 and T2 mapping of the carotid plaque (SIMPLE) with T2 and inversion recovery prepared 3D radial imaging
Authors: Qi Haikun , Sun Jie , Qiao Huiyu , Zhao Xihai , Guo Rui , Balu Niranjan , Yuan Chun , Chen Huijun
Published: May 2018

Purpose

To propose a technique that can produce different T1 and T2 contrasts in a single scan for simultaneous T1 and T2 mapping of the carotid plaque (SIMPLE).

Methods

An interleaved 3D golden angle radial trajectory was used in conjunction with T2 preparation with variable duration (TEprep) and inversion recovery pulses. Sliding window reconstruction was adopted to reconstruct images at different inversion delay time and TEprep for joint T1 and T2 fitting. In the fitting procedure, a rapid B1 correction method was presented. The accuracy of SIMPLE was investigated in phantom experiments. In vivo scans were performed on 5 healthy volunteers with 2 scans each, and on 5 patients with carotid atherosclerosis.

Results

The phantom T1 and T2 estimations of SIMPLE agreed well with the standard methods with the percentage difference smaller than 7.1%. In vivo T1 and T2 for normal carotid vessel wall were 1213 ± 48.3 ms and 51.1 ± 1.7 ms, with good interscan repeatability. Alternations of T1 and T2 in plaque regions were in agreement with the conventional multicontrast imaging findings.

Conclusion

The proposed SIMPLE allows simultaneous T1 and T2 mapping of the carotid artery in less than 10 minutes, serving as a quantitative tool with good accuracy and reproducibility for plaque characterization.
Reproducibility of 2DGluCEST in healthy human volunteers at 7 T
Authors: Nanga Ravi Prakash Reddy , DeBrosse Catherine , Kumar Dushyant , Roalf David , McGeehan Brendan , D'Aquilla Kevin , Borthakur Arijitt , Hariharan Hari , Reddy Damodara , Elliott Mark , Detre John A. , Epperson Cynthia Neill , Reddy Ravinder
Published: May 2018

Purpose

To investigate the reproducibility of gray and white matter glutamate contrast of a brain slice among a small group of healthy volunteers by using the 2D single‐slice glutamate CEST (GluCEST) imaging technique.

Methods

Six healthy volunteers were scanned multiple times for within‐day and between‐day reproducibility. One more volunteer was scanned for within‐day reproducibility at 7T MRI. Glutamate CEST contrast measurements were calculated for within subjects and among the subjects and the coefficient of variations are reported.

Results

The GluCEST measurements were highly reproducible in the gray and white matter area of the brain slice, whether it was within‐day or between‐day with a coefficient of variation of less than 5%.

Conclusion

This preliminary study in a small group of healthy volunteers shows a high degree of reproducibility of GluCEST MRI in brain and holds promise for implementation in studying age‐dependent changes in the brain.
Nutrition and Clinical Outcomes of Nutrition Support in Multidisciplinary Team for Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Lee Jeong Shin , Kang Ji Eun , Park So Hyun , Jin Hye Kyung , Jang Soo Min , Kim Sun Ah , Rhie Sandy Jeong
Published: May 2018

Background

To examine the outcomes of the implementation of a multidisciplinary nutrition support team (NST) that included a pharmacist for critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from electronic medical records and compared between the pre‐NST group (n = 73) and post‐NST group (n = 75). Patients were included if they received enteral or parenteral nutrition support for at least 72 hours in the ICU of an approximately 900‐bed, top‐tier university medical center. The percentage of goal kcal, the percentage of goal protein, serum albumin level, total lymphocyte count, C‐reactive protein, duration of mechanical ventilation use, hospital length of stay (LOS), ICU LOS, and mortality were evaluated.

Results

There were significant differences in the percentage of goal kcal (66.9% ± 25.9% vs 86.2% ± 27.5%; P < 0.001) and the percentage of goal protein (67.0% ± 29.9% vs 81.7% ± 30.7%; P < 0.05) between the pre‐NST and post‐NST groups. A higher percentage of goal kcal was associated with a significant decrease in the ICU LOS (P < 0.05) and hospital LOS (P < 0.05). The percentage of goal kcal was associated with mortality rate (odd ratio, 0.977; 95% confidential interval, 0.959–0.996; P = 0.016).

Conclusion

Implementation of a multidisciplinary NST service for critically ill patients was associated with higher percentages of goal kcal and goal protein, as well as a shortened duration of mechanical ventilation use. Higher energy supply was associated with a reduced mortality rate.
Fluorescent thermostable crosslinked poly(dodecylmethacrylate) composites based on porous polyethylene and CdSe/ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Bugakov Miron , Boiko Natalia , Linkov Pavel , Samokhvalov Pavel , Efimov Alexander , Abramchuk Sergey , Shibaev Valery
Published: May 2018

Hybrid fluorescent polymer–inorganic nanoparticle composites have a broad set of valuable properties that allow them to be considered promising materials for photonics and photovoltaics. The design and methods of preparation of these composites are among the most critical topics of modern materials science. In this work, we have developed an approach to the preparation of composite polymer films with bright fluorescence and high thermostability. These composite films are based on a porous polyethylene (PE) matrix, the pores of which are filled by crosslinked poly(dodecylmethacrylate) and CdSe/ZnS core/shell quantum dots (QDs). The composites obtained are transparent in the visible spectral region and are able to withstand heating to high temperature and a considerable mechanical stress without loss of this property. These QD–PE composite films contain QDs in a high concentration and display very bright fluorescence, while they retain the mechanical properties of the initial porous PE film. Thus, the developed approach makes it possible to obtain composite materials combining the advantageous properties of PE and QDs without appreciable loss of individual component characteristics. A novel approach to the preparation of fluorescence composite polymer films, which have transparency, dimensional thermostability and resistance to mechanical stress, has been developed. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Using generalized estimating equations and extensions in randomized trials with missing longitudinal patient reported outcome data
Authors: Bell Melanie L. , Horton Nicholas J. , Dhillon Haryana M. , Bray Victoria J. , Vardy Janette
Published: May 2018

Objective

Patient reported outcomes (PROs) are important in oncology research; however, missing data can pose a threat to the validity of results. Psycho‐oncology researchers should be aware of the statistical options for handling missing data robustly. One rarely used set of methods, which includes extensions for handling missing data, is generalized estimating equations (GEEs). Our objective was to demonstrate use of GEEs to analyze PROs with missing data in randomized trials with assessments at fixed time points.

Methods

We introduce GEEs and show, with a worked example, how to use GEEs that account for missing data: inverse probability weighted GEEs and multiple imputation with GEE. We use data from an RCT evaluating a web‐based brain training for cancer survivors reporting cognitive symptoms after chemotherapy treatment. The primary outcome for this demonstration is the binary outcome of cognitive impairment. Several methods are used, and results are compared.

Results

We demonstrate that estimates can vary depending on the choice of analytical approach, with odds ratios for no cognitive impairment ranging from 2.04 to 5.74. While most of these estimates were statistically significant (P < 0.05), a few were not.

Conclusions

Researchers using PROs should use statistical methods that handle missing data in a way as to result in unbiased estimates. GEE extensions are analytic options for handling dropouts in longitudinal RCTs, particularly if the outcome is not continuous.
Course and predictors of supportive care needs among Mexican breast cancer patients: A longitudinal study
Authors: Pérez‐Fortis Adriana , Fleer Joke , Schroevers Maya J. , Alanís López Patricia , Sánchez Sosa Juan José , Eulenburg Christine , Ranchor Adelita V.
Published: May 2018

Objective

This study examined the course and predictors of supportive care needs among Mexican breast cancer patients for different cancer treatment trajectories.

Methods

Data from 172 (66.4% response rate) patients were considered in this observational longitudinal study. Participants were measured after diagnosis, neoadjuvant treatment, surgery, adjuvant treatment, and the first post‐treatment follow‐up visit. Psychological, Health System and Information, Physical and Daily Living, Patient Care and Support, Sexual, and Additional care needs were measured with the Supportive Care Needs Survey (SCNS‐SF34). Linear mixed models with maximum‐likelihood estimation were computed.

Results

The course of supportive care needs was similar across the different cancer treatment trajectories. Supportive care needs declined significantly from diagnosis to the first post‐treatment follow‐up visit. Health System and Information care needs were the highest needs over time. Depressive symptoms and time since diagnosis were the most consistent predictors of changes in course of supportive care needs of these patients.

Conclusions

Health system and information care needs of Mexican breast cancer patients need to be addressed with priority because these needs are the least met. Furthermore, patients with high depressive symptoms at the start of the disease trajectory have greater needs for supportive care throughout the disease trajectory.
Help‐seeking behaviour in newly diagnosed lung cancer patients: Assessing the role of perceived stigma
Authors: Rose Shiho , Boyes Allison , Kelly Brian , Cox Martine , Palazzi Kerrin , Paul Christine
Published: May 2018

Objective

This study explored help‐seeking behaviours, group identification, and perceived legitimacy of discrimination, and its potential relationship with perceived lung cancer stigma.

Methods

Consecutive consenting adults (n = 274) with a primary diagnosis of lung cancer within the previous 4 months were recruited at 31 outpatient clinics in Australia. A self‐report survey assessed help‐seeking, group identification, perceived legitimacy of discrimination, and perceived lung cancer stigma.

Results

Services providing assistance from health professionals (69.5%) and informational support (68.5%) were more frequently used than emotional‐based support. Only a small proportion (2.6%) of participants were unlikely to seek help from anyone, with the most popular sources of help being the general practitioner (91.0%), and oncologist/treating clinician (81.3%). One‐fifth (21.1%) indicated they identified with being a lung cancer patient, and most did not perceive discrimination against lung cancer patients. Higher perceived lung cancer stigma was significantly associated with greater perceived legitimacy of discrimination (P < 0.001), but not help‐seeking behaviours or group identification.

Conclusions

The relationship between lung cancer stigma and perceived legitimacy of discrimination may guide initiatives to reduce stigma for patients. It is encouraging that perceived stigma did not appear to inhibit help‐seeking behaviours. However, further research in this emerging field is needed to investigate patterns of perceived stigma and help‐seeking over time to identify how and when to offer support services most appropriate to the needs of lung cancer patients.
Natural organic matter contained in clay rock pore water: Direct quantification at the molecular level using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Huclier‐Markai S. , Monteau F. , Fernandez A.M. , Vinsot A. , Grambow B.
Published: May 2018

Rationale

Natural organic matter (NOM) is present in the environment and could influence the migration of heavy metals/radionuclides. The dissolved fraction of NOM (DOM) is usually quantified using total organic carbon analysis or UV–visible spectrometry. Nonetheless, analysis using pattern recognition cannot provide the full spectrum of organic molecules contained in waters, especially low‐molecular‐weight compounds. In the context of nuclear performance assessment studies, ground waters may contain DOM and a key aspect is to quantify different categories of NOM types in order to further evaluate the transport and fate of radionuclides in the environment.

Methods

Thus, a method for the quantification of DOM at the molecular level was developed, based on electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). This method simultaneously gives structural information on DOM and the individual concentrations of these low‐molecular‐weight compounds without pretreatment and/or preconcentration of the samples.

Results

Several methods of quantification (internal calibration, calibrated addition of external standard, sequential tandem mass spectrometry) have been optimized and successfully applied to real natural samples. They are discussed in this paper with a focus on acidic compounds, which are the compounds that most probably could influence the migration of heavy metals and radionuclides in the clay rock pore water from the French Callovo‐Oxfordian (COx) nuclear repository site.

Conclusions

Quantification of in situ dissolved NOM from the COx has been performed using ESI‐MS. For the first time to our knowledge, it was possible to give a quite exhaustive and quantitative inventory of the small organic compounds present without proceeding to any chemical treatment or sample crushing and for naturally occurring concentrations.