bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic variation of hepatitis B surface antigen among acute and chronic hepatitis B virus infections in The Netherlands
Authors: Cremer Jeroen , Hofstraat Sanne H. I. , van Heiningen Francoise , Veldhuijzen Irene K. , van Benthem Birgit H. B. , Benschop Kimberley S. M.
Published: May 2018

Genetic variation within hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), in particular within the major hydrophobic region (MHR), is related to immune/vaccine and test failures and can have a significant impact on the vaccination and diagnosis of acute infection. This study shows, for the first time, variation among acute cases and compares the amino acid variation within the HBsAg between acute and chronic infections. We analyzed the virus isolated from 1231 acute and 585 chronic cases reported to an anonymized public health surveillance database between 2004 and 2014 in The Netherlands. HBsAg analysis revealed the circulation of 6 genotypes (Gt); GtA was the dominant genotype followed by GtD among both acute (68.2% and 17.4%, respectively) and chronic (34.9% and 34.2%, respectively) cases. Variation was the highest among chronic strains compared to that among acute strains. Both acute and chronic GtD showed the highest variation compared to that of other genotypes (P < .01). Substitutions within the MHR were found in 8.5% of the acute strains and 18.6% of the chronic strains. Specific MHR substitutions described to have an impact on vaccine/immune escape and/or HBsAg test failure were found among 4.1% of the acute strains and 7.0% of the chronic strains. In conclusion, we show a high variation of HBsAg among acute and chronic hepatitis B virus–infected cases in The Netherlands, in particular among those infected with GtD, and compare, for the first time, variation in frequencies between acute and chronic cases. Additional studies on the impact of these variations on vaccination and test failure need to be conducted, as well as whether HBsAg false–negative variants have been missed.
Effects of knockout of the receptor for advanced glycation end‐products on bone mineral density and synovitis in mice with intra‐articular fractures
Authors: Seol Dongrim , Tochigi Yuki , Bogner Ashley M. , Song Ino , Fredericks Douglas C. , Kurriger Gail L. , Smith Sonja M. , Goetz Jessica E. , Buckwalter Joseph A. , Martin James A.
Published: May 2018

Our group employed the mouse closed intra‐articular fracture (IAF) model to test the hypothesis that the innate immune system plays a role in initiating synovitis and post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) in fractured joints. A transgenic strategy featuring knockout of the receptor for advanced glycation end‐products (RAGE −/−) was pursued. The 42 and 84 mJ impacts used to create fractures were in the range previously reported to cause PTOA at 60 days post‐fracture. MicroCT (μCT) was used to assess fracture patterns and epiphyseal and metaphyseal bone loss at 30 and 60 days post‐fracture. Cartilage degeneration, synovitis, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP‐3, ‐13) expression were evaluated by histologic analyses. In wild‐type mice, μCT imaging showed that 84 mJ impacts led to significant bone loss at 30 days (p < 0.05), but recovered to normal at 60 days. Bone losses did not occur in RAGE−/− mice. Synovitis was significantly elevated in 84 mJ impact wild‐type mice at both endpoints (30 day, p = 0.001; 60 day, p = 0.05), whereas in RAGE−/− mice synovitis was elevated only at 30 days (p = 0.02). Mankin scores were slightly elevated in both mouse strains at 30 days, but not at 60 days. Immunohistochemistry revealed significant fracture‐related increases in MMP‐3 and −13 expression at 30 days (p < 0.05), with no significant difference between genotypes. These findings indicated that while RAGE −/− accelerated recovery from fracture and diminished synovitis, arthritic changes were temporary and too modest to detect an effect on the pathogenesis of PTOA. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2439–2449, 2018.
Quantitative MRI correlates with histological grade in a percutaneous needle injury mouse model of disc degeneration
Authors: Piazza Matthew , Peck Sun H. , Gullbrand Sarah E. , Bendigo Justin R. , Arginteanu Toren , Zhang Yejia , Smith Harvey E. , Malhotra Neil R. , Smith Lachlan J.
Published: May 2018

Low back pain due to disc degeneration is a major cause of morbidity and health care expenditures worldwide. While stem cell‐based therapies hold promise for disc regeneration, there is an urgent need to develop improved in vivo animal models to further develop and validate these potential treatments. The objectives of this study were to characterize a percutaneous needle injury model of intervertebral disc degeneration in the mouse caudal spine, and compare two non‐invasive quantitative imaging techniques, microcomputed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as effective measures of disc degeneration in this model. Percutaneous needle injury of mouse caudal discs was undertaken using different needle sizes and injury types (unilateral or bilateral annulus fibrosus (AF) puncture). Mice were euthanized 4 weeks post‐injury, and MRI and microcomputed tomography were used to determine T2 relaxation time of the NP and disc height index, respectively. Disc condition was then further assessed using semi‐quantitative histological grading. Bilateral AF puncture with either 27 or 29G needles resulted in significantly lower T2 relaxation times compared to uninjured controls, while disc height index was not significantly affected by any injury type. There was a strong, inverse linear relationship between histological grade and NP T2 relaxation time. In this study, we demonstrated that quantitative MRI can detect disc degeneration in the mouse caudal spine 4 weeks following percutaneous needle injury, and may therefore serve as a surrogate for histology in longitudinal studies of both disc degeneration and cell‐based therapies for disc regeneration using this model. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2771–2779, 2018.
Paravertebral injection of botulinum toxin‐A reduces lumbar vertebral bone quality
Authors: Wang Xuepeng , Wang Shengjie , Yan Peng , Bian Zhenyu , Li Maoqiang , Hou Changju , Tian Jiwei , Zhu Liulong
Published: May 2018

Aging has been associated with decreases in muscle strength and bone quality. In older patients, paravertebral muscle atrophy tends to coincide with vertebral osteoporosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a paravertebral injection of botulinum toxin‐A (BTX) on paravertebral muscle atrophy and lumbar vertebral bone quality. Forty 16‐week‐old female SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: (1) a control group (CNT); (2) a resection of erector spinae muscles group (RESM); (3) a botulinum toxin‐A group (BTX), treated with 5U BTX by local injection into the paravertebral muscles bilaterally; and (4) a positive control group (OVX), treated by bilateral ovariectomy. Rats were sacrificed at 12 weeks post‐surgery, and the lumbar vertebrae (L3–L6) were collected. Micro‐CT scans showed that rats in the three experimental groups—particularly the OVX rats—had fewer trabeculae and trabecular connections than rats in the CNT group. BMD was significantly lower in rats in the OVX, RESM, and BTX groups than in the CNT group (p < 0.01). Vertebral compression testing revealed significantly lower maximum load, energy absorption, maximum stress, and elastic modulus values in the three experimental groups compared with the CNT group (p < 0.01); these parameters were lowest in the OVX group (p < 0.05). Our results demonstrate that local BTX injection causes sufficient muscle atrophy and dysfunction to result in local lumbar vertebral bone loss and quality deterioration in a model of paravertebral muscle atrophy. Clinical Significance: The muscular tissues surrounding the lumbar vertebrae should be preserved during clinical surgery to avoid loss of bone quality and mass in the adjacent bone. Maintaining paravertebral muscle strength is an important consideration for patients with early osteoporosis. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2664–2670, 2018.
Regenerative medicine will make orthopaedic implants obsolete in our time Orthopaedic Research Society first annual meeting debate, San Diego, March 21st, 2017
Authors: Johnstone Brian , Jacobs Joshua J. , Sandell Linda J. , Wilkinson Jeremy M.
Published: May 2018

The mission of the Orthopaedic Research Society is to promote and advance musculoskeletal research worldwide. With this in mind, the Annual Meeting Program Committee sought to establish a debate as a key component of the meeting. Our purpose was to provoke discussion on topics that are core to our mission and to engage all constituencies within the society by examining questions of broad relevance. To this end, the topic “Regenerative medicine will make orthopaedic implants obsolete in our time” was selected as the title of the inaugural debate. The arguments for and against the motion are presented in this perspectives article. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2579–2585, 2018
Fabrication of thioflavin‐T‐modified nanopillared SERS substrates for ultrasensitive beta‐amyloid peptide detection
Authors: Altuntas Sevde , Buyukserin Fatih
Published: May 2018

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a major cause of death in the world, and despite intense efforts, there is still no cure for this neurodegenerative disorder. Therefore, early diagnosis of AD is of prime importance, and extensive studies are being conducted to improve the current early detection capabilities and to identify new potential biomarkers for this disease. Here in, we report the fabrication of a novel nanobiosensor platform for the surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)‐based ultrasentisitive detection of beta‐amyloid (1–42) peptide (Aβ[1–42]), a well‐established biomarker of AD. Polymeric films having multibranched nanopillared surfaces (MNS) were first fabricated by drop‐casting polycarbonate solutions onto anodized aluminum oxide molds that possess hierarchically branched pores. After peeling from the nanoporous molds, a 20‐nm Au coating allowed these MNS substrates to sense sub‐picomolar levels of Thioflavin‐T (ThT), a SERS‐active dye, clinically used to diagnose amyloid plaque presence. Of particular interest, the ThT‐modified MNS films demonstrated a gradual ThT SERS signal suppression when incubated with increasing concentrations of Aβ(1–42), and this trend was used to obtain a limit of detection value of 0.5 pg/ml and a linear dynamic range between 0.5 pg/ml and 100 ng/ml. The developed biosensor platform has stable ThT SERS signals for extended periods and displayed promising results in artificial saliva. Ongoing studies are focused on its potential with real body fluids.
Marine macroalgae as sources of protein and bioactive compounds in feed for monogastric animals
Authors: Øverland Margareth , Mydland Liv T , Skrede Anders
Published: May 2018

Marine macroalgae are considered as promising sustainable alternatives to conventional terrestrial animal feed resources. The advantages include high growth rate, potential cultivation in saltwater, and no occupation of arable land. Macroalgae are broadly classified as brown (Phaeophyta), red (Rhodophyta) and green (Chlorophyta) algae, and are a diverse group of marine organisms. The nutritional value of macroalgae is highly variable. The protein and essential amino acid content can be low, especially in brown species, and indigestible polysaccharides adversely affect the energy value. Optimal use of macroalgae in feeds requires suitable processing, and biorefinery approaches may increase protein content and improve nutrient availability. Macroalgae are rich in unique bioactive components and there is a growing interest in the potentially beneficial health effects of compounds such as laminarin and fucoidan in different macroalgal and macroalgal products. This review summarizes current literature on different aspects of the use of macroalgae as sources of protein and health‐promoting bioactive compounds in feed for monogastric animal species. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Egg proteins: fractionation, bioactive peptides and allergenicity
Authors: Chang Chang , Lahti Todd , Tanaka Takuji , Nickerson Michael T
Published: May 2018

Eggs are an important source of macro and micronutrients within the diet, comprised of proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. They are constituted by a shell, the white (containing 110 g kg−1 proteins: ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, ovomucoid, lysozyme and ovomucin), and the yolk (containing 150–170 g kg−1 proteins: lipovitellins, phosvitin, livetins, and low‐density lipoproteins). Owing to their nutritional value and biological characteristics, both the egg white and yolk proteins are extensively fractionated using different techniques (e.g., liquid chromatography, ultrafiltration, electrophoresis, and chemical precipitation), in which liquid chromatography is the most commonly used technique to obtain individual proteins with high protein recovery and purity to develop novel food products. However, concerns over allergenic responses induced by certain egg proteins (e.g., ovomucoid, ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, lysozyme, α‐livetin, and lipoprotein YGP42) limit their widespread use. As such, processing technologies (e.g., thermal processing, enzymatic hydrolysis, and high‐pressure treatment) are investigated to reduce the allergenicity by conformational changes. In addition, biological activities (e.g., antioxidant, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, and anticancer activities) associated with egg peptides have received more attention, in which enzyme hydrolysis is demonstrated as a promising way to break polypeptides sequences and produce bioactive peptides to provide nutritional and therapeutic benefits for human health. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Corrosion of a 75Sn/25Pb coating on a low carbon steel in a gaseous environment polluted with HCl: mechanism
Authors: Lequien Florence , Moine Gervaise
Published: May 2018

The corrosion of a 75Sn/25Pb coating on low carbon steel exposed to a humid gas flow polluted with 3 ppm of HCl has been studied. The mixture is carried out in a reactor connected to two gas feedthroughs: one with wet air and one with HCl(g). The corrosion mechanism comprehension was based on several steps. The presence of lead involves the creation of a brittle PbCl2 layer. If cracks occur, it can create preferential paths for hydrochloric acid. In contact with steel, HCl will make corrosion. In the same time, the tin precipitates under the shape of plates, with high contents of oxygen and chlorine, making the coating thinner. If the condensation cannot be minimized, an acid chloride concentrated droplet is formed, as a reactive electrolyte. The result is material dissolution similar to a liquid phase. The particularity of the corrosion mechanisms is shown as well as the problems using materials in an HCl polluted gaseous environment.
Corrosion and antibacterial characterization of Ag‐DLC coatingon a new CoCrNbMoZr dental alloy
Authors: Ionita Daniela , Golgovici Florentina , Mazare Anca , Badulescu Marius , Demetrescu Ioana , Pandelea‐Dobrovicescu George‐Razvan
Published: May 2018

The paper aim is to compare corrosion and antibacterial characterization of a new CoCrNbMoZr alloy before and after coating with diamond‐like carbon‐Ag (Ag‐DLC) compound films. The investigation of chemical structure of the deposited coating was undertaken using FTIR analysis. Surface characterization involved scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) with X rays energy dispersive analysis (EDX) investigations as well as contact angle measurements. Electrochemical stability tested in Tani–Zuchi saliva and simulated body fluid is higher compared to bare alloy in both bioliquids. Using Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as model for Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, respectively, an antibacterial effect of the coated alloy was found. The coating exibited a more hydrophilic character compared to the uncoated alloy and a higher antibacterial effect, the most significant being for S. aureus. Based on experimental data was established the dual potential of Ag‐DLC coating with the capacity to enhance corrosion resistance and bacterial inhibition towards P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in the oral cavity.
Photoluminescent Grafted Polymers: Synthesis and Properties of a Polyethylene Matrix Covalently Linked with Porphyrin Units
Authors: Rojas‐Montoya Sandra M. , Vonlanthen Mireille , Ruiu Andrea , Rodríguez‐Alba Efraín , Burillo Guillermina , Rivera Ernesto
Published: May 2018

Novel grafted polymers are prepared from commercial low‐density polyethylene (PE) films. First, precursor polymers are synthesized by reacting PE in the presence of acryloyl chloride, using gamma radiation at different radiation doses, to give precursor grafted polymers (PE‐g‐AC). A further esterification reaction between the PE‐g‐AC polymers with a new porphyrin derivative bearing a tetraethylene glycol side chain leads to the formation of novel grafted polymers containing porphyrin units (PE‐g‐AC‐PTEG). These polymers are characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and their thermal behavior is studied by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The optical properties of the polymers are studied by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. In addition, the influence of the irradiation dose on the structure and the optical properties of the polymers is discussed in detail.
Subtle Alterations in DNA Methylation Patterns in Normal Cells in Response to Dietary Stilbenoids
Authors: Beetch Megan , Lubecka Katarzyna , Kristofzski Heather , Suderman Matthew , Stefanska Barbara
Published: May 2018

Scope

Searching for correlations between dietary polyphenols and risk of chronic diseases has been a challenge due to the lack of quantitative evaluation methods of long‐term exposure. We previously observed substantial DNA methylation changes in human cancer cells upon treatment with polyphenols of the stilbenoid class. When induced in normal cells, such molecular changes may persist and reflect chronic exposure.

Methods and results

Illumina 450K microarray is used to delineate a genome wide DNA methylation landscape in MCF10A human immortalized mammary epithelial cells exposed to resveratrol (RSV) at noncytotoxic 15 μM dose for 9 days. Subtle alterations are observed suggesting remodeling of DNA methylation patterns rather than switch on/off changes. Using pyrosequencing, DNA methylation is quantitatively measured at eight CpG sites located within KCNJ4, RNF169, BCHE, DAOA, HOXA9, RUNX3, KRTAP2‐1, and TAGAP, upon exposure to RSV or pterostilbene and shows similar differences induced by both stilbenoids. Two of the probes, Runx3 and Kcnj4, are successfully verified in whole blood DNA from healthy rats on diets supplemented with stilbenoids.

Conclusions

The study provides strong support for testing the utility of polyphenol‐mediated changes in DNA methylation as quantitative measures of long‐term dietary exposures in nutritional epidemiology and clinical trials.
A density field parametrization for topology optimization using Bernstein elements
Authors: Lambe Andrew B. , Czekanski Aleksander
Published: May 2018

A new way of describing the density field in density‐based topology optimization is introduced. The new method uses finite elements constructed from Bernstein polynomials rather than the more common Lagrange polynomials. Use of the Bernstein finite elements allows higher‐order elements to be used in the density‐field interpolation without producing unrealistic density values, ie, values lower than zero or higher than one. Results on several test problems indicate that using the higher‐order Bernstein elements produces optimal designs with sharper estimates of the optimal boundary on coarse design meshes. However, higher‐order elements are also required in the structural analysis to prevent the appearance of unrealistic material distributions. The Bernstein element density interpolation can be combined with adaptive mesh refinement to further improve design accuracy even on design domains with complex geometry.
An accurate and stable multiphase moving particle semi‐implicit method based on a corrective matrix for all particle interaction models
Authors: Duan Guangtao , Koshizuka Seiichi , Yamaji Akifumi , Chen Bin , Li Xin , Tamai Tasuku
Published: May 2018

The Lagrangian moving particle semi‐implicit (MPS) method has potential to simulate free‐surface and multiphase flows. However, the chaotic distribution of particles can decrease accuracy and reliability in the conventional MPS method. In this study, a new Laplacian model is proposed by removing the errors associated with first‐order partial derivatives based on a corrected matrix. Therefore, a corrective matrix is applied to all the MPS discretization models to enhance computational accuracy. Then, the developed corrected models are coupled into our previous multiphase MPS methods. Separate stabilizing strategies are developed for internal and free‐surface particles. Specifically, particle shifting is applied to internal particles. Meanwhile, a conservative pressure gradient model and a modified optimized particle shifting scheme are applied to free‐surface particles to produce the required adjustments in surface normal and tangent directions, respectively. The simulations of a multifluid pressure oscillation flow and a bubble rising flow demonstrate the accuracy improvements of the corrective matrix. The elliptical drop deformation demonstrates the stability/accuracy improvement of the present stabilizing strategies at free surface. Finally, a turbulent multiphase flow with complicated interface fragmentation and coalescence is simulated to demonstrate the capability of the developed method.
Both serum and tissue Galectin‐1 levels are associated with adverse clinical features in neuroblastoma
Authors: Chen Kai , Cai Yuanxia , Zhang Min , Wu Zhixiang , Wu Yeming
Published: May 2018

Background

Neuroblastoma is one of the most common pediatric solid tumors. Although the 5‐year overall survival rate has increased over the past few decades, high‐risk patients still have a poor prognosis due to a lack of biomonitoring therapy. This study was performed to investigate the role of Galectin‐1 in neuroblastoma biomonitoring therapy.

Procedure

A tissue microarray containing 37 neuroblastoma tissue samples was used to evaluate the correlation between Galectin‐1 expression and clinical features. Blood samples were examined to better understand whether serum Galectin‐1 (sGalectin‐1) could be used for biomonitoring therapy. Kaplan–Meier analysis and ROC analysis was conducted to distinguish the outcome associated with high or low expression of Galectin‐1 in patients with neuroblastoma.

Results

Increased Galectin‐1 expression was found in neuroblastoma and it was further demonstrated that elevated tissue Galectin‐1 expression was related to INSS stage, histology, bone marrow metastasis, and poor survival. sGalectin‐1 levels were higher in newly diagnosed patients with neuroblastoma than healthy subjects. Patients with elevated sGalectin‐1 through treatment cycles correlated with the poor chemo‐responses and tended to have worse outcomes, such as metastasis or stable tumor size, whereas gradually decreasing sGalectin‐1 levels correlated with no observed progression in clinical symptoms.

Conclusions

Tissue and serum Galectin‐1 levels were associated with adverse clinical features in patients with neuroblastoma, and sGalectin‐1 could be a potential biomarker for monitoring therapy.
Burnout in pediatric hematology/oncology—time to address the elephant by name
Authors: Whitford Brittney , Nadel Amy L. , Fish Jonathan D.
Published: May 2018

The last decade has brought increasing recognition that the wellness of health care providers has an impact on the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and health care economics. This review will describe models of burnout, discuss the impact of burnout on medicine with a focus on pediatric hematologists/oncologists, and present interventions that may help ameliorate physician burnout.
Sudden spinal hemorrhage in a pediatric case with total body irradiation‐induced cavernous hemangioma
Authors: Mikami Takashi , Kato Itaru , Nozaki Fumihito , Umeda Katsutsugu , Kamitori Tatsuya , Tasaka Keiji , Ogata Hideto , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Arakawa Yoshiki , Adachi Souichi
Published: May 2018

Compared to cerebral radiation‐induced cavernous hemangiomas (RICHs), little is known about intraspinal RICHs. A 13‐year‐old male suddenly developed symptomatic spinal hemorrhage eight years after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation using a total body irradiation (TBI) based myeloablative regimen. A solitary small hemangioma was detected on follow‐up T2 star weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the spine. His neurological symptoms gradually improved with supportive treatment and rehabilitation, although he experienced rebleeding 2 years later. Intraspinal RICH is very rare but should be recognized as a possible late adverse effect in pediatric patients who received TBI.
Annual stroke incidence in Nigerian children with sickle cell disease and elevated TCD velocities treated with hydroxyurea
Authors: Lagunju IkeOluwa , Brown B.J. , Oyinlade A.O. , Asinobi A. , Ibeh J. , Esione A. , Sodeinde O.O.
Published: May 2018

Background

Elevated transcranial Doppler (TCD) velocities accurately predict stroke risk in children with sickle cell disease (SCD). Chronic blood transfusion, the gold standard for primary stroke prevention, is faced with numerous challenges in Africa. Hydroxyurea (HU) has been shown to reduce elevated TCD velocities in children with SCD.

Aim

To determine the effectiveness of HU in reducing the risk of primary stroke in a cohort of Nigerian children with SCD and elevated velocities treated with HU.

Methods

Children with SCD and TCD velocities ≥170 cm/sec treated with HU were prospectively followed with 3‐monthly TCD and neurological evaluations for ≥12 months to determine the incidence of primary stroke.

Results

One hundred and four children, 53 males, and 51 females were enrolled into the study. Their ages ranged from 2 to 16 years with a mean of 6 years. At first TCD examination, velocities ranged from 173 to 260 cm/sec with conditional and abnormal risk velocities in 60 (57.7%) and 44 (42.3%) children, respectively. Follow up ranged from 1 to 8 years with a mean of 3.6 years. Mean TCD velocities showed a significant decline from 198.2 (standard deviation [SD] = 15.6) cm/sec to 169.3 (SD = 21.4) cm/sec (P < 0.001). One stroke event occurred in the cohort, giving a stroke incidence of 0.27/100 person years.

Conclusion

HU significantly reduces TCD velocities in Nigerian children with SCD and elevated TCD velocities, with a corresponding reduction in the incidence of primary stroke. HU may represent a potential alternative for primary stroke prevention in low and middle income countries where the burden of SCD resides.
Clinical significance of MYCN amplification in patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma
Authors: Lee Ji Won , Son Meong Hi , Cho Hee Won , Ma Young Eun , Yoo Keon Hee , Sung Ki Woong , Koo Hong Hoe
Published: May 2018

Background

This study investigated the clinical significance of MYCN amplification within high‐risk neuroblastoma (NB).

Methods

Medical records of 135 patients who were diagnosed with high‐risk NB from 2004 to 2016 were reviewed.

Results

Fifty‐one (38%) patients had MYCN amplified tumors, and the remaining 84 (62%) had nonamplified tumors. MYCN amplification was associated with abdominal primary site, less differentiated pathology, higher levels of lactate dehydrogenase and neuron‐specific enolase (NSE), lower vanillylmandelic acid level, and larger primary tumor volume at diagnosis. MYCN amplification was associated with a better early response (faster reduction of primary tumor volume and NSE level). The proportion of patients in complete response or very good partial response after induction treatment was relatively higher in MYCN amplified tumors than in nonamplified tumors; however, all progressions during induction treatment occurred only in MYCN amplified tumors (P = 0.007). The time to progression was shorter (median 1.5 years vs. 1.9 years, P = 0.037) and survival after relapse/progression was worse in MYCN amplified tumors (3 year overall survival: 7.7 ± 7.4% vs. 20.5 ± 8.8%, P = 0.046). There was no difference in event‐free survival and overall survival between MYCN amplified and nonamplified tumors.

Conclusion

MYCN amplification was associated with more aggressive features at diagnosis and a better early response, but a higher progression rate during induction treatment and lower chance of survival after relapse/progression. There was no difference in survival rates according to MYCN amplification in patients with high‐risk NB.
DIVERGT screening procedure predicts general cognitive functioning in adult long‐term survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A PETALE study
Authors: Boulet‐Craig Aubree , Robaey Philippe , Laniel Julie , Bertout Laurence , Drouin Simon , Krajinovic Maja , Laverdière Caroline , Sinnett Daniel , Sultan Serge , Lippé Sarah
Published: May 2018

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common cancer in children. Because of major improvements in treatment protocols, the survival rate now exceeds 80%. However, ALL treatments can cause long‐term neurocognitive sequelae, which negatively impact academic achievement and quality of life. Therefore, cognitive sequelae need to be carefully evaluated. The DIVERGT is a battery of tests proposed as a screening tool, sensitive to executive function impairments in children and adolescent cancer survivors. Our study aimed at verifying the predictive value of the DIVERGT on general cognitive functioning in adult long‐term survivors of ALL.

Methods

ALL survivors completed the DIVERGT 13.4 years, on average, after remission (N = 247). In addition, 49 of these survivors (equally selected amongst those with low, average, and high DIVERGT scores) as well as 29 controls completed a more comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation within a 3‐year period from DIVERGT administration. Multivariate regression analysis was used to assess the predictive value of the DIVERGT on general intelligence, mathematics, verbal memory, and working memory. As a follow‐up analysis, three performance groups were created based on the DIVERGT results. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) assessed neuropsychological differences between groups.

Results

The DIVERGT accurately predicted General Ability Index (GAI) (P < 0.0001), mathematics (P < 0.0001) and verbal memory (P = 0.045). Moreover, the low‐performance group consistently had poorer performance than the high‐performance and control groups on the neuropsychological tests.

Conclusion

The DIVERGT is a useful, time‐effective screening battery for broader neurocognitive impairments identification in long‐term adult ALL survivors. It could be implemented as routine examination in cancer follow‐up clinics.
Poikiloderma with neutropenia in a Tunisian patient with a novel C16orf57 gene mutation
Authors: Sakka Rania , Mahjoub Bahri , Kerkeni Emna , Werdani Amina , Boussoffara Raoudha , Ben Cheikh Hassen , M'rad Ridha , Sfar Mohamed Taher
Published: May 2018

Poikiloderma with neutropenia (PN) is a genodermatosis characterized by poikiloderma, permanent neutropenia, recurrent infections, nail abnormalities, and palmoplantar hyperkeratosis. We report the case of a Tunisian patient with PN. Skin lesions started from the face and spread to the extremities and trunk. Neutropenia was initially periodic and concomitant with infections periods. DNA analysis identified a novel homozygous deletion of a 1‐bp (c.161delC, p.P54RfsX60) in the C16orf57gene, presumed to be causative.

This report presents the variability of the clinical manifestations and evolution of PN and emphasizes the importance of studying other patients with PN to better delineate mutations profile among populations.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for sickle cell disease: Progress and challenges
Authors: Hulbert Monica L. , Shenoy Shalini
Published: May 2018

Sickle cell disease (SCD) presents challenges to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), including donor availability and morbidity with age/disease severity. However, severe SCD causes irreversible organ damage that HSCT can mitigate. This benefit must be balanced against preparative regimen toxicity, graft‐versus‐host disease, and mortality risk. We review efforts to balance HSCT complications with the promise of cure, and knowledge gaps that warrant further investigation. We highlight the burden of SCD, HSCT risks and benefits, and SCD families’ approach to this balance. We emphasize the necessity for information exchange to ensure a joint decision‐making process between providers and patients.
White paper on plasma for medicine and hygiene: Future in plasma health sciences
Authors: Bekeschus Sander , Favia Pietro , Robert Eric , von Woedtke Thomas
Published: May 2018

Plasma Science and Technology offer their valuable contribution to human health since more than 50 years, after decades of experiences in the field of biomaterials; and more than a decade in using plasmas for therapeutic uses in medicine. Current knowledge as well as key challenges and opportunities for the human health have been intensely discussed during the Future in Plasma Science II (FIPS II) workshop in February 2016 in Greifswald, Germany. This contribution summarizes the major outcomes of the meeting and the current literature and consensus with an emphasis on major challenges in the fields of Plasma Science and Technology for improving human health.
Nanocrystallisation of Ammonium DiNitramide (ADN) by Spray Flash Evaporation (SFE)
Authors: Berthe Jean‐Edouard , Schnell Fabien , Boehrer Yannick , Spitzer Denis
Published: May 2018

Ammonium DiNitramide (ADN) is an interesting oxidizer to replace ammonium perchlorate in the composition of solid propellants. In this study, Spray Flash Evaporation (SFE) is presented as a new technology to enhance stability of ADN by crystallization of nanoparticles. The crystallinity and purity of the compound was confirmed by X‐Ray Diffraction and Raman analysis. An average diameter of spherical particles around 32 nm (solution of ethyl acetate) and 34 nm (solution of methyl acetate) was measured by Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the downsizing to nanoscale induces a slower moisture absorption kinetic under 55 % of relative humidity, a reduction of the critical diameter of detonation and the desensitization to impact.
Weak Antilocalization in Granular Sb2Te3 Thin Films Deposited by MOCVD
Authors: Cecchini Raimondo , Mantovan Roberto , Wiemer Claudia , Nasi Lucia , Lazzarini Laura , Longo Massimo
Published: May 2018

Topological insulator (TI) properties of granular Sb2Te3 thin films, grown by MOCVD at room temperature on 4″ SiO2/Si substrates, are investigated. The negative magneto‐conductance (MC), analyzed in terms of the Hikami–Larkin–Nagaoka theory, reveals the presence of a clear weak antilocalization (WAL) effect, thus demonstrating the TI character of our system. The extracted WAL prefactor (α) values are explained in terms of the film conductance, in agreement with the existing models for WAL in transport disordered systems. The dephasing length () dependence on temperature is affected by the grain size of the film and might in turn explain the observed temperature dependence of α and of the conductance. These results demonstrate the feasibility of technologically‐relevant processes to synthesize TIs films, at the same time providing a tool to investigate the effects of the film microstructure on the topological character of their transport properties.
Ultrasound and Ionic Liquid: An Ideal Combination for Organic Transformations
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Sharma Aditi , Banerjee Bubun
Published: May 2018

Combination of ultrasound and suitable ionic liquid is a powerful tool to carry out diverse organic transformations. In many occasions, this fruitful combination helps to get the desire products without using any further catalysts even at room temperature. Recyclability of ionic liquid makes a protocol cost effective also. The present review deals with the ultrasound‐assisted organic synthesis in various ionic liquids either as catalyst or reaction media.
Rice Husk as the Source of Silicon/Carbon Anode Material and Stable Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Yu Kaifeng , Zhang Hanxiang , Qi Hui , Gao Xuan , Liang Jicai , Liang Ce
Published: May 2018

Herein, a magnesiothermic reduction strategy is employed to synthesize three‐dimensional structured silicon/carbon (Si/C) material, using rice husk as raw materials. The composition and morphology of Si/C material are investigated by XRD, Raman, SEM and TEM. The unique structure benefits from the naturally conductive network of biomass carbon, and ensures the excellent electrochemistry performance. Utilizing for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) anode material, this Si/C composite behaves good cycling stability (537 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g−1), and enhanced rate capacity (640.31,521.6,415.88, and 331.71 mA h g−1 at current densities of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1 A g−1, respectively). Our research exhibits a new strategy for preparing low‐cost and environmental‐friendly Si/C material and possesses enormous potential to be extended to other biomass anode materials.
Urea and Ethylene Glycol‐Assisted Solvothermal Synthesis of Spheroidal LiFePO4/C Nanoparticles as a Cathode Material for Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Juan , Niu Yao , Fu Yonghong , Yang Yubing , Hojamberdiev Mirabbos
Published: May 2018

Spheroidal LiFePO4/C nanoparticles were synthesized successfully via a urea and ethylene glycol‐assisted solvothermal synthetic route combined with high‐temperature calcinations under different solvothermal time and carbon coating amounts. The obtained samples were characterized with various techniques, including X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electrochemical performance experiments. The test results showed that urea as an additive plays a critical role in controlling morphologies of the final products and ethylene glycol as a stabilizer avoids the agglomeration of particles in the process. As a promising cathode material of lithium ion batteries, the LiFePO4/C in this work could provide an initiate discharge capacity of 155 mAh⋅g–1 and maintain 91.6% of initial capacity after 100 cycles at 0.1 C. The discharge capacity is 78.8 mAh⋅g–1 when circulating at high rate up to 10 C, showing excellent discharge performance. Furthermore, the in‐situ generated carbon ensures the higher electrical conductivity and the nano‐sized spheroidal LiFePO4/C particles prolong the cycle life of batteries, thus exhibiting high charge‐discharge capability, excellent rate properties and stable cycling behavior.
Impact of π Spacers on the Optical, Electrochemical and Photovoltaic performance of D‐(π‐A)2 Based Sensitizers
Authors: Sivanadanam Jagadeeswari , Ganesan Paramaguru , Gao Peng , Nazeeruddin Mohammad K. , Rajalingam Renganathan‐
Published: May 2018

A series of D‐(π‐A)2 organic dyes with different π spacers have been designed and synthesized. The modification of the bi‐anchoring dyes regarding π spacers assists in tuning the photochemical and electrochemical properties of the dyes, which determine the open circuit voltage (VOC), short circuit current density (JSC) and hence overall power conversion efficiency. It is found that varying the spacers has more influence on determining the short circuit current density of the solar cell devices made with these sensitizers. When thiophene is used as π spacer, higher short circuit current density of 9.42 mA/cm2 is observed. The better IPCE of the dye with thiophene as spacer further supports its advantage over other spacers. The observed tunable light harvesting property, electrochemical and photovoltaic behaviour by varying the π spacers in D‐(π‐A)2 type sensitizers will provide fruitful information for future designing of sensitizers with multi‐anchoring modes.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures and Properties of Two Novel Mixed Anion Hybrids with Formulas of Pb6O2(BO3)2(C2O4) and Pb4(CO3)2(C2O4)(OH)2
Authors: Yang Hui , Mao Feifei , Xu Cuixia
Published: May 2018

It has been regarded as an ideal strategy to design and synthesize new compounds by combining different functional groups together. Based on numerous experiments, it is successful to assemble two kinds of mixed anion groups together and obtain two novel mixed‐anion hybrids, namely, Pb6O2(BO3)2(C2O4) (1) and Pb4(CO3)2(C2O4)(OH)2 (2) under hydrothermal condition. In compound 1, three oxolead polyhedra share edges into a Pb3O6 cluster which is further connected by other four similar ones via corner‐sharing into 2D fluctuant square layers. BO3 units fill in the voids of oxolead layers into [Pb6O2(BO3)2]2+ layers which are connected by C2O42− anions into a 3D structure. Compound 2 displays [Pb4(CO3)2(OH)2]2+ layers which can be described as an alternating connection of [PbO6(OH)] and flat [CO3] triangles and are further linked by C2O42− anions into 2D Pb4(CO3)2(C2O4)(OH)2 layered framework. Photoluminescent investigations indicate that their emission spectra consist of several broad bands centered around 430, 620 nm and 450, 610, 720 nm for compounds 1 and 2, respectively. And interestingly, the intensity of the emission bands can be tuned through changing the excitation wavelengths.
Stereoselective Organocatalytic Synthesis of γ,γ‐Disubstituted Butenolides
Authors: Sharma Vivek , Bhardwaj Vimal K. , Chimni Swapandeep S.
Published: May 2018

A direct highly diastereo‐ and enantioselective asymmetric doubly vinylogous 1,6‐Michael addition reaction of 3‐methyl‐4‐nitro‐5‐alkenyl isoxazoles with γ‐substituted deconjugated butenolides has been successfully developed with the help of Cinchona derived squaramides. This novel strategy has been utilized to synthesize a range of enantiopure γ,γ‐disubstituted butenolide molecules bearing remote contiguous quaternary and tertiary stereocenters in yield up to 76% with ee up to 98% and dr up to ≥20:1.
Parameter study of framed‐tube structures with outriggers using genetic algorithm
Authors: Chen Yue , Cai Kejian , Wang Xing
Published: May 2018

In this paper, the analysis of optimal locations of framed‐tube structures with outriggers is conducted with the uniform and nonuniform core and peripheral columns using genetic algorithm, aiming to minimize the interstory drift. Also, comparison and difference of the results between the uniform and nonuniform structures are carried out and discussed. Besides, several parameters which influence the behavior of the structure are identified and analyzed, such as different objective functions, segments of outriggers, thickness of core wall, stiffness of outriggers, and grade of concrete strength. In addition, a Matlab program is written to perform the parameter analysis of optimal location of outriggers. Take a 260‐m high‐rise building as a target building, the optimal locations of one to two sets of outriggers subjected to three kinds of horizontal loadings (uniform, parabolic, and triangular) are obtained and can be utilized for the structural preliminary design of tall buildings.
Addendum to: Scheming in the SMEFT. . . and a reparameterization invariance!
Authors: Brivio Ilaria , Trott Michael
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We allow two independent flavor contractions for the operator

$$ {\mathcal{Q}}_{ll} $$

Q

l
l

in the U(3)5 flavor symmetric limit and report modified fit results in this limit.
The holographic shape of entanglement and Einstein’s equations
Authors: Lewkowycz Aitor , Parrikar Onkar
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We study shape-deformations of the entanglement entropy and the modular Hamiltonian for an arbitrary subregion and state (with a smooth dual geometry) in a holographic conformal field theory. More precisely, we study a double-deformation comprising of a shape deformation together with a state deformation, where the latter corresponds to a small change in the bulk geometry. Using a purely gravitational identity from the Hollands-Iyer-Wald formalism together with the assumption of equality between bulk and boundary modular flows for the original, undeformed state and subregion, we rewrite a purely CFT expression for this double deformation of the entropy in terms of bulk gravitational variables and show that it precisely agrees with the Ryu-Takayanagi formula including quantum corrections. As a corollary, this gives a novel, CFT derivation of the JLMS formula for arbitrary subregions in the vacuum, without using the replica trick. Finally, we use our results to give an argument that if a general, asymptotically AdS spacetime satisfies the Ryu-Takayanagi formula for arbitrary subregions, then it must necessarily satisfy the non-linear Einstein equation.
Impact of Appointment Waiting Time on Attendance Rates at a Clinical Cancer Genetics Service
Authors: Shaw Tarryn , Metras Julie , Ting Zoe Ang Li , Courtney Eliza , Li Shao‐Tzu , Ngeow Joanne
Published: May 2018

The increase in demand for clinical cancer genetics services has impacted the ability to provide services timeously. Given limited resources, this often results in extended appointment waiting times. Over the last 3 years, the Cancer Genetics Service at the National Cancer Centre Singapore has continued to experience a steady increase in demand for its service. Nevertheless, significant no‐show rates have been reported. This study sought to determine whether an association exists between appointment waiting times and attendance rates. Data was gathered for all participants meeting inclusion criteria. Attendance rates and appointment waiting times were calculated. The relationship between mean waiting times for those who did and did not attend their scheduled appointments was evaluated using Welch's t test and linear regression model. The results showed a significant difference in mean appointment waiting times between patients who did and did not attend (32.66 versus 43.50 days respectively; p < 0.0001). Furthermore, patients who waited for longer than 37 days were significantly less likely to attend. No‐show rates increased as the waiting time increased, at a rate of 19.60% per 20 days and 21.40% per 30 days. In conclusion, appointment waiting time is a significant predictor for patient attendance. Strategies to ensure patients receive an appointment within the necessary timeframe at the desired setting are important to ensure that individuals at increased cancer risk attend their appointments in order to manage their cancer risks effectively.
A shared identity promotes herding in an information cascade game
Authors: Berger Sebastian , Feldhaus Christoph , Ockenfels Axel
Published: May 2018

Our research addresses the effect of shared vs. mixed group identities in an information cascade game. We vary whether subjects always choose after a decision maker who shares the same identity or after a decision maker with a different identity. We find that subjects’ inclination to follow their predecessor is stronger in groups uniquely consisting of ingroup members compared to mixed groups. We relate this result to recent social cognition research.