bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Final report for CCQM-K107: total elements and selenomethionine in human serum
Authors: Infante Heidi Goenaga 
Published: March 2016

Routine tests that measure the concentration of electrolytes in serum are needed for diagnosis and management of renal, endocrine, acid-base, water balance and other conditions such as screening D- and A-vitamin disorders, kidney insufficiency, bone diseases and leukaemia. The diagnostic concentration ranges for many such markers are narrow, requiring reference methods with small uncertainty. Serum concentration of total selenium (Se) is important in health studies but there is increasing interest in the speciation of selenium compounds in clinical samples such as serum and individual Se- Species are bio-indicators of Se status.
The last CCQM IAWG key comparison for elements in the clinical area (CCQM-K14: Ca in human serum) was organized in 2003 and the previous key comparison (CCQM-K60) for Se and Se species used a wheat flour sample. Therefore, the CCQM IAWG agreed that CCQM-K107 and a parallel pilot study CCQM-P146 should be carried out. The candidate human serum sample used for both CCQM-K107 and P146 is of high complexity and contains approximately 1000-fold lower concentrations of selenium methionine (SeMet) than those encountered in the CCQM-K60 wheat flour. This significantly broadens the scope and degree of difficulty of earlier measurements in this field.
A total of eleven institutes participated in CCQM-K107 (11 participants for total elements and 7 for SeMet). The performance of the majority of the K107 participants for all the measurands was very good, illustrating their ability to obtain accurate results for analytes such as electrolytes at mg kg-1 level, essential elements at µg kg-1 level and selenium species at µg kg-1 level in a complex biological fluid. The range of agreement between participants was within the interval of ± 0.1% for Ca and up to ± 1.8% for Fe.
CMC claims based on total elements in this study may include other elements with similar core competencies (e.g. Se, Cu, Zn) in a wide range of biological materials (including liquids and solids) at a similar level of performance using the same measurement technique applied in CCQM-K107 provided that there are no additional factors (e.g. blank or dissolution issues). CMC claims based on SeMet measurements in this study may be applied to other biological matrices (e.g., tissues) provided that the concentration range is similar and due diligence is taken to ensure an appropriate extraction process is achieved and species specific spikes are available for quantitation by isotope dilution. Indeed, having accepted such conditions, application to quantitation of other organometallic species and other elements in similar matrices should be possible with the same level of performance.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.
The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Retracted: One-pot synthesis of a gold nanoparticle–Vmh2 hydrophobin nanobiocomplex for glucose monitoring
Authors: Politi Jane , De Stefano Luca , Rea Ilaria , Gravagnuolo Alfredo Maria , Giardina Paola , Methivier Christophe , Casale Sandra , Spadavecchia Jolanda 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
HydrophobinVmh2 is a small amphiphilic protein, which self-assembles on different surfaces and naturally interacts with glucose. Here, we report on the synthesis of a nanobiocomplex made of polyethylene glycol, Vmh2 and gold nanoparticles by a one-step process and on its ability to recognise glucose in an aqueous solution at 0.3–0.6–1.2 mg ml−1 concentrations. Even though the Vmh2 proteins are intrinsically bonded to the gold core, effective glucose interaction monitoring was demonstrated by using dynamic light scattering, ultraviolet–visible, polarization-modulated infrared reflection–absorption and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopies. Experimental results highlighted an affinity constant of 7.3 ± 0.3 mg ml−1 between the nanobiosystem and the sugar, and a detection sensitivity of 0.13 ± 0.06 a.u./mg ml−1.
An urgent and frequent symptom
Authors: Stern William M. , Panicker Jalesh N. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractLower urinary tract symptoms such as urgency, daytime frequency, nocturia, and incontinence commonly occur in patients with neurological disorders. These problems may significantly impact quality of life for patients, who may be embarrassed to report them unless specifically questioned. Through a case report, this case outlines the essentials of history-tak ing and key investigations required to establish the cause of urinary difficulties, along with the differential diagnosis. We discuss various pharmacological treatments for bladder dysfunction, outlining their indications, mechanisms of action, and side effects. Non-pharmacological treatments are also discussed, such as different strategies for catheterization and electrical nerve stimulation. The case includes expert comments highlighting common pitfalls and tips for clinicians seeing neurological patients who report urinary symptoms.
Not moving a muscle
Authors: Rayan Dipa Raja , Turner Chris 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
This case uses a case to illustrate the common presentations of myotonic dystrophy type 1 and the large variability of phenotypes within a family. It discusses the key differentials to consider when patients present with myotonia, as well as the primary investigations to perform when confirming the diagnosis. It discusses the most important aspects in the multidisciplinary management of the condition, including the key aspects of managing respiratory and cardiac manifestations. It also outlines some of the landmark trials affecting the management of the disease, including the efficacy of mexiletine in treating myotonia and the importance of pacing in this cohort. Thereby it gives an overview of the key aspects of diagnosis and management of myotonic dystrophy for the clinician.
Picking out an inherited disease
Authors: Rubio-Agusti Ignacio , Lachmann Robin 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Inherited metabolic disorders can present at any age and can affect single or multiple organ systems. Because of its complex structure and metabolism, nervous system involvement is prominent in a wide range of these diseases. It is important to make the diagnosis as disease-modifying therapy is now available for a number of these conditions and, even when specific treatment is not available, genetic counselling can be important for other members of the family. Metabolic disorders should be suspected in all patients with neurological or psychiatric symptoms, particularly those with a complex phenotype involving several neurological systems. Special attention must be given during history-tak ing and examination to identify specific systemic features that may help in narrowing an otherwise vast differential diagnosis. As an example, we discuss a man with Niemann-Pick disease type C, a progressive neurovisceral lysosomal storage disorder. We discuss the presentation, diagnosis, and management.
An unusual case of basilar stroke
Authors: Kennedy Fiona , Brown Martin M. 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
The basilar artery and two vertebral arteries comprise the vertebrobasilar system and supply the posterior part of the circle of Willis and the posterior cerebral arteries. Vertebrobasilar disease accounts for approximately 20 per cent of ischaemic stroke. Occlusion of the basilar artery is an uncommon cause of stroke, but carries a poor prognosis with mortality rates up to 90 per cent. Patients who do survive rarely regain functional independence and are at risk of recurrent strokes. Patients with basilar artery occlusion can present with reduced level of consciousness, the locked-in state, hemi- or tetraplegia, cortical blindness, and cranial nerve palsies causing horizontal gaze palsy, facial palsy, and oropharyngeal palsy. Interventional techniques, including intravenous and intra-arterial thrombolysis, mechanical clot retrieval, and stent insertion, are available for basilar artery thrombosis. However, none of these approaches have been evaluated in terms of randomized controlled trials.
Parkinsonism with little response to levodopa
Authors: Doherty Karen M. , Houlden Henry 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is an α-synucleinopathy clinically characterized by autonomic disturbance, parkinsonism, and cerebellar ataxia occurring in any combination. Other clinical features include pyramidal signs, dystonia, and REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) and early bladder involvement. Mean age at onset is mid to late fifties, earlier than the other atypical parkinsonian disorders (progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal syndrome) and rarely over 70 years. MSA can be subdivided into a predominantly parkinsonian type (MSA-P) and a predominantly cerebellar type (MSA-C) depending on the principal clinical features. MSA-P is the more common subtype found in Europe and is associated with a more rapid progression to loss of function; MSA-C is generally less common, but is the more common variant in Japan. Almost all patients, often later in the disease, will have symptoms of autonomic disturbance such as urinary dysfunction and orthostatic hypotension. Disease duration is typically 7–8 years.
Non-convulsive status epilepticus
Authors: Novy Jan , Chinthapalli Krishna , Mula Marco 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Non-convulsive status epilepticus can be a challenging diagnosis as it often relies on EEG confirmation. Prognosis is largely dependent on the underlying cause and investigations should be continued until aetiology is identified. Some forms, such as absence status epilepticus, are widely considered as harmless. The aggressiveness of acute treatment should be tailored to the type of status epilepticus, the underlying cause, and the overall condition of the patient. Treatment should be conducted alongside investigations. First-line treatment comprises benzodiazepines such as lorazepam or midazolam followed by antiepileptic drugs such as phenytoin, sodium valproate, and levetiracetam. In refractory cases, treatment with anaesthetic agents may be necessary and should be balanced with the risk of complications.
A life-threatening drug reaction
Authors: Chinthapalli Suchitra , O’Toole Edel 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
This case describes a case of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) occurring secondary to anti-epileptic drug (AED) use for seizures. It outlines the clinical features that patients with TEN present with as well as the diagnosis and management of this serious condition. It discusses up to date research on risk factors for developing serious cutaneous reactions secondary to AED use, including dosing of drug use, different types of AEDs, and genetic factors such as HLA alleles. It outlines other serious and common cutaneous reactions secondary to AEDs, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and exanthems, with advice regarding management. Photographs are provided to aid clinical recognition.
On the emitting region of X-ray fluorescent lines around Compton-thick AGN
Authors: Liu Jiren 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
X-ray fluorescent lines are unique features of the reflection spectrum of the torus when irradiated by the central active galactic nuclei (AGN). Their intrinsic line width can be used to probe the line-emitting region. Previous studies have focused on the Fe K α line at 6.4 keV, which is the most prominent fluorescent line. These studies, however, are limited by the spectral resolution of currently available instruments, the best of which is ∼1860 km s−1 afforded by the Chandra High-Energy Grating (HEG). The HEG spectral resolution is improved by a factor of 4 at 1.74 keV, where the Si K α line is located. We measured the full width at half-maximum of the Si K α line for Circinus, Mrk 3, and NGC 1068, which are 570 ± 240, 730 ± 320, and 320 ± 280 km s−1, respectively. They are 3–5 times smaller than those measured with the Fe K α line previously. It shows that the intrinsic widths of the Fe K α line are most likely to be overestimated. The measured widths of the Si K α line put the line-emitting region outside the dust sublimation radius in these galaxies. It indicates that for Compton-thick AGN, the X-ray fluorescence material are likely to be the same as the dusty torus emitting in the infrared band.
Ultradiffuse galaxies: the high-spin tail of the abundant dwarf galaxy population
Authors: Amorisco N. C. , Loeb A. 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Recent observations have revealed the existence of an abundant population of faint, low surface brightness (SB) galaxies, which appear to be numerous and ubiquitous in nearby galaxy clusters, including the Virgo, Coma and Fornax clusters. With median stellar masses of dwarf galaxies, these ultradiffuse galaxies (UDGs) have unexpectedly large sizes, corresponding to a mean SB of 24 ≲ 〈μe〉r mag−1 arcsec2 ≲ 27 within the effective radius. We show that the UDG population represents the tail of galaxies formed in dwarf-sized haloes with higher-than-average angular momentum. By adopting the standard model of disc formation – in which the size of galaxies is set by the spin of the halo – we recover both the abundance of UDGs as a function of the host cluster mass and the distribution of sizes within the UDG population. According to this model, UDGs are not failed L* galaxies, but genuine dwarfs, and their low SB is not uniquely connected to the harsh cluster environment. We therefore expect a correspondingly abundant population of UDGs in the field, with possibly different morphologies and colours.
Impact of Prior Tissue Expander/Implant on Postmastectomy Free Flap Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Roostaeian Jason , Yoon Alfred P. , Ordon Shannon , Gold Chris , Crisera Christopher , Festekjian Jaco , Da Lio Andrew , Lipa Joan E. 
Published: March 2016

Background:
Implant-based breast reconstructions can result in unsatisfactory results requiring surgical revision or salvage reconstructive surgery with autologous tissue. This study compares the outcomes and complications of salvage (tertiary) flap reconstruction after failed prosthesis placement to those of primary/secondary flap reconstruction.

Methods:
All patients undergoing free flap breast reconstruction after failed prosthesis between July 1, 2005, and June 30, 2014, were identified. A matched number of patients who underwent a de novo free flap breast reconstruction were selected randomly for review. The indication for prosthesis removal, demographic and operative data, flap type and inset, and complication rates were evaluated.

Results:
Eighty-nine women with a history of failed implant-based reconstruction required free flap reconstruction for salvage in 121 breasts. Capsular contracture was the most common indication for prosthesis removal (62.0 percent). Recipient vessel scarring was 5.23 times more likely to occur in the prior prosthesis group (p < 0.001). Alternate flap types other than deep inferior epigastric perforator and transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps were more frequently used in this cohort. Major complications requiring operative management were more common in the experimental group (17.4 percent versus 8.1 percent; p = 0.035). No difference was noted in flap loss rates, operative take back, or operative time.

Conclusions:
Salvage breast reconstruction with autologous tissue after failed prosthesis can be safely performed, with success rates similar to those of primary free flap breast reconstruction. However, these procedures may have increased complexity because of recipient vessel scarring, higher rates of prior radiation therapy, and major complications, which may warrant appropriate preoperative planning and patient counseling.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:
Therapeutic, III.
Breast Implant Informed Consent Should Include the Risk of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Clemens Mark W. , Miranda Roberto N. , Butler Charles E. 
Published: March 2016

Summary:
Breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a rare T-cell lymphoma arising around breast implants. Public awareness has increased following a safety communication warning of the association of breast implant–associated ALCL by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2011. Difficulty with determining an accurate assessment of risk, including diagnosis, or standardized treatment regimen has led surgeons to commonly omit preoperative discussion of this rare and frequently misunderstood cancer. Risk disclosure is a form of respect for patient autonomy, and informed consent has positive practical and moral consequences for the practice of plastic surgery. A model of breast implant–associated ALCL informed consent implementation and health care provider education are reviewed with 1-year process follow-up at a tertiary cancer center. Breast implant–associated ALCL should be included during preoperative counseling on the risks of breast implantation when obtaining informed consent. Pertinent aspects of decision-making include disease awareness, presenting symptoms, and resources for concerned patients. Education of health care professionals and provision of patient-focused materials ensures effectiveness of the informed consent process.
Traumatic Finger Amputation Treatment Preference among Hand Surgeons in the United States and Japan
Authors: Shauver Melissa J. , Nishizuka Takanobu , Hirata Hitoshi , Chung Kevin C. 
Published: March 2016

Background:
Large geographic differences in procedure utilization draw into question its appropriate use. In Japan, replantation is frequent for even very distal finger amputations. In the United States, revision amputation is far more common. There has been no detailed investigation into the drivers of these differences.

Methods:
The authors created a survey to assess experience with replantation, estimates of physical and functional outcomes, attitudes toward amputees, and preferences in several injury scenarios. The survey was distributed to members of the Finger Replantation and Amputation Multicenter Study and to hand surgeons making podium presentations at the Thirty-Second Annual Meeting of the Central Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand.

Results:
One hundred percent of both groups responded. There were no significant differences in surgeon experience. Japanese surgeons were significantly more likely to recommend replantation in all scenarios, despite 62 percent ranking function 6 months after replantation as “poor.” Japanese surgeons also rated the appearance of a hand with an amputated finger significantly poorer. Finally, Japanese surgeons were significantly more likely to report stigmatization against finger amputees.

Conclusions:
There is no study with a high level of evidence comparing outcomes following replantation and revision amputation. The lack of evidence results in surgeons basing recommendations on personal preference. In this case, Japanese surgeons preferred replantation despite agreeing that functional outcomes were suboptimal. This may be because of Japanese cultural beliefs. Comparative effectiveness research, such as that planned by the Finger Replantation and Amputation Multicenter Study, can provide evidence toward the appropriate use of replantation.
Adjuvant Pelvic Radiation Therapy±Vaginal Brachytherapy in Patients With High-risk Stage I or Stage II Uterine Papillary Serous, Clear Cell, and High-grade Endometrioid Carcinoma
Authors: Nagar Himanshu , Yan Weisi , Parashar Bhupesh , Nori Dattatreyudu , Chao K.S.C. , Christos Paul , Gupta Divya , Holcomb Kevin , Caputo Thomas , Wernicke A. Gabriella 
Published: March 2016

Purpose:
Radiation therapy (RT) for stages I-II uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC), clear cell (CC), and high-grade endometrioid (HGE) carcinoma present a treatment challenge. Regimens include external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) with or without brachytherapy. We examine the use of these radiation modalities in these endometrial cancers (EC) with respect to cause-specific survival (CSS).

Methods:
The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was queried for patients with AJCC stages I-II UPSC, CC, or HGE cancer treated with hysterectomy and RT between 1998 and 2008. Patients who did not receive adjuvant RT or received brachytherapy alone were excluded. CSS was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and the log-rank test was used to compare CSS. Multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model. Adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were calculated for risk of EC death.

Results:
There were 1653 patients included in this analysis. The overall 100-month CSS for the entire cohort was 81.0%. The 100-month CSS was 85.3% for EBRT alone and 86.5% for EBRT+brachytherapy (P=0.72). Stage IC/IIA/IIB patients had a greater risk of EC death compared with stage IA/IB patients (adjusted HR=2.39; P<0.0001). Patients with UPSC and CC had a slightly higher risk of EC death compared with HGE (adjusted HR=1.01 [P=0.97] and 1.42 [P=0.02], respectively). On subset analysis, there was no difference in CSS with the addition of brachytherapy for UPSC (P=0.37), CC (P=0.27), or HGE cancer patients (P=0.42). Patients treated with brachytherapy in addition to EBRT did not demonstrate a reduced adjusted risk of EC death compared with EBRT alone (P=0.38).

Conclusions:
The addition of brachytherapy to adjuvant EBRT in stages I-II UPSC, CC, and HGE cancer did not demonstrate superior CSS. Thus, patients may not benefit from the addition of brachytherapy to EBRT.
Oncologic and Functional Hazards of Obesity Among Patients With Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Following Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation Therapy
Authors: Park In J. , You Y. Nancy , Skibber John M. , Rodriguez-Bigas Miguel A. , Das Prajnan , Eng Cathy , Kopetz Scott , Wolff Robert A. , Crane Christopher H. , Krishnan Sunil , Minsky Bruce , Hu Chung-Yuan , Nguyen Sa , Chang George J. 
Published: March 2016

Objective:
Obesity is a major health concern and risk factor for colorectal cancer that may also impact cancer treatment and outcomes. Rectal cancer response to chemoradiotherapy (CXRT) is associated with long-term survival and sphincter preservation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of obesity on treatment outcomes after neoadjuvant CXRT for rectal cancer.

Methods:
A retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed (1993 to 2010) with cT3-4 or cN+ (by endorectal ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging) rectal carcinoma and treated with CXRT and total mesorectal excision was performed. Patients were classified as obese (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) or nonobese (body mass index <30 kg/m2), and by response to CXRT: complete (pCR) or incomplete (pIR). Associations between obesity, tumor response, and sphincter preservation were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis and survival outcomes by Cox regression.

Results:
A total of 753 patients met criteria and 28.7% (n=216) patients were obese. Obese and nonobese groups did not differ in age, sex, tumor location, grade, or number of examined lymph nodes. However, obesity was associated with a lower rate of pCR (ORmulti=0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-0.94; P=0.04) and among mid to low rectal cancer patients, a lower rate of sphincter preservation (ORmulti=0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.45-0.99). Among both obese and nonobese patients, CR was associated with more favorable recurrence-free survival than pIR.

Conclusions:
Considering the increasing obesity prevalence and its association with CXRT response, oncologic outcomes, and sphincter preservation, further study is needed regarding the impact of obesity on neoadjuvant treatment response. Moreover, obesity should be targeted as a modifiable risk factor for adverse outcomes following multimodality treatment for rectal cancer.