bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Techno‐Economic Evaluation of Cyclopentane Hydrate‐Based Desalination with Liquefied Natural Gas Cold Energy Utilization
Authors: He Tianbiao , Chong Zheng Rong , Babu Ponnivalavan , Linga Praveen
Published: April 2019

The clathrate hydrate‐based desalination process coupled with liquefied natural gas (LNG) cold energy (ColdEn‐HyDesal) strengthens energy–water nexus by integrating two energy‐intensive processes into one. A typical HyDesal process that uses a gas as a hydrate former requires elevated pressure for hydrate formation that results in a higher specific energy consumption (SEC). The efficiency of the process improves by adopting hydrate formers with a milder hydrate formation condition, such as cyclopentane (CP). In this study, the ColdEn‐HyDesal process using CP as the hydrate former is modeled and investigated. The results show that the SEC of the ColdEn‐HyDesal process using CP is 0.35 kWh m−3. The effects of water recovery rate, hydrate formation temperature and heating seawater pressure on SEC, volumetric flow rate, exergy efficiency, and fixed capital investment (FCI) are investigated. The water recovery rate is found to have a significant effect on the SEC, volumetric flow rate, exergy efficiency, and FCI, whereas, hydrate formation temperature has a pronounced impact on FCI, while small impacts on SEC, volumetric flow rate, and exergy efficiency. With a lower operating pressure and the elimination of compressor for recycle, the ColdEn‐HyDesal process using CP as the hydrate former further reduces SEC by 58% when compared with gas such as propane as a hydrate‐forming guest.
Development and Implementation of Statistical Methods for Quality Optimization in the Large‐Format Lithium‐Ion Cells Production
Authors: Meyer Oliver , Weihs Claus , Mähr Stefan , Tran Hai-Yen , Kirchhof Michael , Schnackenberg Sarah , Neuhaus-Stern Jennifer , Rößler Stefan , Braunwarth Wolfgang
Published: April 2019

Herein, two techniques to optimize the production process of large‐format lithium‐ion cells for plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles using data‐driven methods are introduced and demonstrated. The first approach uses standard settings of the quality influencing factors to maximize the number of produced electrode sheets that meet predefined quality specifications. The second approach uses statistical methods to determine the levels of the quality influencing factors of a certain process that optimizes all quality parameters of the corresponding product jointly.
Distinguishing characteristics of delirium in a skilled nursing facility in Spain: Influence of baseline cognitive status
Authors: Franco José G. , Trzepacz Paula T. , Gaviria Ana M. , Sepúlveda Esteban , Viñuelas Eva , Palma José , Grau Imma , Vilella Elisabet
Published: April 2019

Objective

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia (DEM) are prevalent in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), confounding delirium detection. We report characteristics of delirium in an SNF to ascertain distinguishing features for delirium diagnosis, despite challenges of comorbidity with MCI and DEM.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study of 200 consecutive patients from an SNF in Catalunya, Spain, assessed within the first 24 to 48 admission hours by independent experts with Spanish‐Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (for MCI‐DEM), Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM‐5) delirium criteria, and Delirium Rating Scale Revised‐98 (DRS‐R98) for delirium phenomenology. Delirium characteristics were modeled in successive steps, according to the presence of delirium and MCI‐DEM, with analysis of variance (ANOVA), receiver operator characteristic analyses, and conditional logistic regression.

Results

The final model produced symptoms that represented each of the three delirium core domains (ie, cognitive, higher order thinking, and circadian). The DRS‐R98 items rated these symptoms as moderate‐severe attention/vigilance, mild‐severe language, and moderate‐severe sleep‐wake cycle alterations. The delirium discriminant accuracy of the three symptoms together was high: 84.6% in the MCI‐DEM group to 92.8% in the No MCI‐DEM group.

Conclusions

Impairments of attention, language, and sleep‐wake cycle indicate delirium in SNF patients regardless of the underlying MCI‐DEM status. Because delirium is underdetected in SNFs, where nursing staff/patient ratios are low, brief simple tools that measure these symptoms could potentially enhance delirium detection.
Sarcopenic obesity predicts nonremission of late‐life depression
Authors: Kokkeler Kitty J.E. , van den Berg Karen S. , Comijs Hannie C. , Oude Voshaar Richard C. , Marijnissen Radboud M.
Published: April 2019

Background/objectives

Aging‐related physiological changes like metabolic dysregulation and physical frailty are associated with depression and worsen its prognosis. Since central obesity is a key component of the metabolic syndrome and sarcopenia of physical frailty, we examined the association of sarcopenic obesity with depression cross‐sectional and over time.

Methods

Cohort study of depressed patients and a nondepressed comparison group.

Setting

Primary and secondary mental health care.

Participants

Three hundred seventy‐eight older (≥60 y) depressed patients of which 285 were followed up at 2 years and 132 nondepressed persons participating in the Netherlands Study of Depression in Older (NESDO) persons.

Measurements

Sarcopenic obesity was based on predefined cutoffs for both maximum handgrip strength (assessed with a dynamometer) and waist circumference (dichotomous) as well as the product term of handgrip strength by waist circumference (dimensional). Depressive disorder according to DSM‐IV‐TR criteria was assessed with fully structured psychiatric interview at baseline and 2‐year follow‐up.

Results

Sarcopenic obesity was more prevalent among depressed patients compared with nondepressed participants (18.9% versus 10.7%, P = 0.030). Neither the dichotomous nor dimensional operationalization of sarcopenic obesity was associated with baseline depressive disorder when adjusted for covariates. Nonetheless, among depressed patients, logistic regression showed that the interaction of handgrip strength by waist circumference was associated with remitted depression at 2‐year follow‐up (P = 0.044). Only among patients with a low handgrip strength, a higher waist circumference predicted nonremission.

Conclusion

Among depressed patients, sarcopenic obesity predicts nonremission of depression. Therefore, combined exercise and nutritional interventions might be effective for depressed patients with sarcopenic obesity.
Incorporating Weight Loss Medications Into Hepatology Practice for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Do Albert , Kuszewski Eric J. , Langberg Karl A. , Mehal Wajahat Z.
Published: April 2019

There is an urgent need for practical approaches to patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Total body weight loss (TBWL) is an important approach, as its effects are amplified in the liver, with 10% TBWL resulting in a 50% loss of liver triglycerides and improvement in all aspects of NASH histology. Lifestyle changes are the first step in addressing TBWL, but uncommonly result in the range required to improve liver histology in NASH (7%‐10%). Weight loss medications (WLMs) are an effective additional tool because they can provide TBWL in the 7%‐10% range, have a well‐characterized clinical profile, have clear guidelines, and meet approved criteria for their use (body mass index greater than 27 kg/m2) for most NASH patients. Use of WLMs requires shared decision making with the patient, which hepatologists, due to their understanding of the natural history of NASH, are uniquely positioned to provide. WLMs do present the challenge of incorporating new medications into the hepatology clinic, but this will be necessary with all medications to manage NASH. WLMs provide a practical intervention that can be incorporated into hepatology clinics and can be offered to most NASH patients. NASH‐specific medicines in clinical trials offer partial histological responses, and TBWL will likely enhance this. Conclusion: WLMs provide the hepatologist with effective and welcome clinical intervention beyond the diagnosis and staging of NASH and provide patients with a sense of empowerment about the treatment of their liver disease.
Maternal Immunity Influences Vertical Transmission of Hepatitis B to Newborns
Authors: Vyas Ashish Kumar , Negi Pooja , Patra Sharda , Maras Jaswinder Singh , Ramakrishna Gayatri , Sarin Shiv Kumar , Trehanpati Nirupma
Published: April 2019

Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) from the mother to the newborn often results in viral persistence. To understand mechanisms of maternofetal HBV transmission, we studied maternal immunity and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) transcriptome in mothers and newborns. We included 50 mothers and babies who were hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive: 22 HBV transmitting mothers (group [Gr.] I) and 28 HBV nontransmitting mothers (Gr. II) to newborns and 10 healthy mother–baby pairs (Gr. III). PBMCs were analyzed for HBV‐specific dendritic cells (DCs), T cells, T follicular helper (TFh) cells, B cells, functional immune responses, and cytokine levels as well as transcriptome signatures to identify immune gene expression correlates for protective immunity. Group II mothers had lower HBsAg levels (3.82 × 103 versus 1.493 × 104; P < 0.0001) with greater HBV‐specific responses of DCs, T cells, TFh cells, and B cells than Gr. I mothers. Frequencies of TFh cells were lower in Gr. I mothers, with reduced interleukin‐21 (IL‐21) levels, and these inversely correlated with HBV DNA levels. Cut‐off levels of 9.5% and 8.93% from the receiver operating curve predicted the involvement of TFh cells and B cells in HBV transmission. Transcriptome signatures revealed that maternal gene imprints were reflected in the newborns. Genes related to DCs, TFh cells, and B cells were increased in Gr. II, and Gr. II newborns showed a boost in cellular and humoral responses after vaccination. Conclusion: In mothers infected with HBV, low serum IL‐21 levels and decreased TFh‐cell and plasma B‐cell frequencies are associated with vertical transmission of HBV to newborns. These features are indicative of low protective maternal immunity.
Iodoamination of Alkenyl Sulfonamides by Potassium Iodide and Hydrogen Peroxide in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Giofrè Sabrina , Sala Roberto , Beccalli Egle Maria , Presti Leonardo Lo , Broggini Gianluigi
Published: April 2019

A procedure for the iodoamination of unfunctionalized olefins tethered to a tosyl‐protected NH‐group has been developed. The combined use of KI and H2O2 in aqueous medium was effective for the preparation of iodomethyl‐substituted nitrogen‐containing heterocycles. The selective exo‐trig iodocyclization provided 1,2‐bifunctional 5‐, 6‐, and 7‐membered cyclic skeletons.
A Concise Synthesis ofrac‐Ambrox®viathe Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed Carboalkoxylation of an Allylic Ammonium Salt, as Compared to a Formaldehyde HeteroDiels–AlderApproach
Authors: Chapuis Christian , Skuy David , Richard Claude‐Alain
Published: April 2019

Acidic cyclization of either the diethylallylamines29bor30, followed by a 1.5 mol‐% Pd‐catalyzed carbomethoxylation of quaternized31b, leads to the methyl ester36a. This latter could also be obtained in optically pure form by carbomethoxylation of the corresponding (+)‐acetate. Final reduction‐cyclization may be conducted as earlier described, towards the desired odoriferousrac‐Ambrox®38a, or its pure (−)‐enantiomer. Generation of aπ‐allyl Pd complex from an allylic ammonium salt, followed by carboalkoxylation is novel. In only five chemical steps starting from farnesene2, the present work constitutes the most concise total synthesis ofrac‐Ambrox®38ato date.
REBACIN® as a noninvasive clinical intervention for high‐risk human papillomavirus persistent infection
Authors: Yang Yi , Meng Ya‐Li , Duan Shu‐Min , Zhan Shao‐Bing , Guan Ruo‐Li , Yue Tian‐Fu , Kong Ling‐Hua , Zhou Ling , Deng Liu‐Hong , Huang Chao , Wang Sheng , Wang Gui‐Yu , Wu Dai‐Fei , Zhang Chun‐Fa , Chen Fei
Published: April 2019

The development of highly sensitive HPV‐genotyping tests has opened the possibility of treating HPV‐infected women before high‐grade lesions appear. The lack of efficient intervention for persistent high‐risk HPV infection necessitates the need for development of novel therapeutic strategy. Here we demonstrate that REBACIN®, a proprietary antiviral biologics, has shown potent efficacy in the clearance of persistent HPV infections. Two independent parallel clinical studies were investigated, which a total of 199 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into a REBACIN®‐test group and a control group without treatment. The viral clearance rates for the REBACIN® groups were 61.5% (24/39) and 62.5% (35/56), respectively, for the two independent parallel studies. In contrast, the nontreatment groups showed self‐clearance rates at 20.0% (8/40) and 12.5% (8/64). We further found that REBACIN® was able to significantly repress the expression of HPV E6 and E7 oncogenes in TC‐1 and Hela cells. The two viral genes are well known for the development of high‐grade premalignancy lesion and cervical cancer. In a mouse model, REBACIN® was indicated to notably suppress E6/E7‐induced tumor growth, suggesting E6 and E7 oncogenes as a potential target of REBACIN®. Taken together, our studies shed light into the development of a novel noninvasive therapeutic intervention for clearance of persistent HPV infection with significant efficacy.
Framing plagiarism as a disease heightens students' valuation of academic integrity
Authors: Keefer Lucas A. , Brown Mitch , Rothschild Zachary K.
Published: April 2019

Prior research based on conceptual metaphor theory has explored how metaphorical language subtly influences how people perceive social issues. For instance, rhetoric comparing a perceived problem to a disease has been used historically to generate support for a wide array of measures proposed to “treat” the problem, and recent experimental work demonstrates the efficacy of this approach. The current paper extends this literature by looking at the use of disease metaphor in a novel domain: student perceptions of plagiarism on campus. We found that participants (N = 365) exposed to a disease‐metaphoric description of plagiarism on campus perceived it to be a more severe problem and, as a result, were more supportive of a variety of anti‐plagiarism policies. This mediational analysis further demonstrates the far‐reaching practical significance of metaphor.
Wearable optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: Chen Qian , Xie Huikai , Xi Lei
Published: April 2019

Optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy (ORPAM) is an emerging imaging technique, which has been extensively used to study various brain activities and disorders of the anesthetized/restricted rodents with a special focus on the morphological and functional visualization of cerebral cortex. However, it is challenging to develop a wearable photoacoustic microscope, which enables the investigation of brain activities/disorders on freely moving rodents. Here, we report a wearable and robust optical resolution photoacoustic microscope (W‐ORPAM), which utilizes a small, light, stable and fast optical scanner. This wearable imaging probe features high spatiotemporal resolution, large field of view (FOV) and easy assembly as well as adjustable optical focus during the in vivo experiment, which makes it accessible to image cerebral cortex activities of freely moving rodents. To demonstrate the advantages of this technique, we used W‐ORPAM to monitor both morphological and functional variations of vasculature in cerebral cortex during the induction of ischemia and reperfusion of a freely moving rat.
Fluorescent‐functionalized graphene oxide for selective labeling of tumor cells
Authors: Senapati Sudipta , Patel Dinesh K. , Ray Biswajit , Maiti Pralay
Published: April 2019

Fluorescence probe has attracted significant attention for biomedical imaging in recent years due to their high resolution at the cellular level. Organic‐based fluorescent probes with high quantum yield are widely applied in bioimaging, but most of them suffer from a serious obstacle called aggregation‐caused quenching in cellular systems. New fluorophore has been designed through functionalization of graphene oxide which emphatically exhibits aggregation‐induced emission along with pH‐responsive nanoprobe. Significantly higher emission of this material in slightly acidic media helps to detect tumor cell by creating a sharp contrast with the image of normal cells. The reason for pH‐induced enhanced emission phenomenon is revealed through aggregation of sulfonated species in acidic media. Furthermore, the biocompatible nature of the newly developed material is found to be suitable for its application in biomedical imaging for cancer detection with better accuracy at lower cost. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1917–1924, 2019.
Quercetin plays protective role in oxidative induced apoptotic events during chronic chlorpyrifos exposure to rats
Authors: Fereidouni Soheil , Kumar Ravi Ranjan , Chadha Vijayta D. , Dhawan Devinder Kumar
Published: April 2019

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), an organophosphate insecticide has a wider application throughout the world to protect agricultural crops and vegetables from insects. Polyphenolic compounds are considered as beneficial against toxicities induced by organophosphates. The present study was conducted to understand the neuroprotective role of quercetin in chlorpyrifos‐induced apoptotic events in rats. Twenty‐four male Sprague Dawley rats weighing 170 to 200 g were divided into four groups viz: Control, chlorpyrifos treated (13.5 mg/kg body wt. alternate day), quercetin treated (50 mg/kg body wt. every day) and combined chlorpyrifos + quercetin treated. All the treatments were carried out for a total duration of 60 days. Protein carbonyl content and acetylcholinesterase activity were estimated in serum along with cerebrum and cerebellum to ascertain neurotoxicity. Further, for appraisal of neurodegeneration as a consequence of apoptosis, protein expressions of Bcl‐2, Bax, cytochrome c, caspase‐8, and caspase‐9 were assessed. The results showed that protein carbonyl contents were markedly increased in both serum and brain tissues (cerebrum and cerebellum) of chlorpyrifos‐treated rats when compared with control group and were appreciably improved upon simultaneous supplementation with quercetin. Further, chlorpyrifos treatment revealed a significant decrease in the enzyme activity of acetylcholinesterase in serum as well as in cerebrum and cerebellum, which however was increased upon concomitant treatment with quercetin. In chlorpyrifos‐treated animals, we have observed a significant decrease in the protein expression level of Bcl‐2, but a remarkable increase in the expression levels of Bax, cytochrome c, caspase‐8, and caspase‐9 in both cerebrum and cerebellum. Interestingly, when chlorpyrifos‐treated animals were supplemented with quercetin, a significant increase in the expression of Bcl‐2 and an appreciable decline in the expression levels of Bax, cytochrome c, caspase‐8, and caspase‐9 was observed. In conclusion, the present study advocates that quercetin may prove to be a useful candidate in containing the oxidative‐induced apoptotic events during chlorpyrifos exposure.
Impact of bedaquiline and capreomycin on the gene expression patterns of multidrug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain and understanding the molecular mechanism of antibiotic resistance
Authors: Miryala Sravan Kumar , Anbarasu Anand , Ramaiah Sudha
Published: April 2019

The emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR), extensively drug‐resistant, and total drug‐resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strains have hampered the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). Capreomycin and Bedaquiline are currently used for MDR‐TB treatment. To understand the impact of these antibiotics on Mtb genes, we have curated the gene expression data where the Mtb cultures were exposed to the Bedaquiline and Capreomycin. Based on the P value cut off (<0.05) and logFC (<−0.5 and >+0.5) values, we have selected the top differentially expressed genes during the antibiotic exposures. We have observed that the top differentially expressed Mtb genes were related to universal stress genes, two‐component regulatory systems, and drug efflux pumps. We have curated the Mtb gene datasets and carried out the functional over‐representation analysis using the individual gene expression values. We further, constructed the gene interaction networks of antibiotic resistance genes and virulence genes of Mtb to understand the impact of the antibiotics at the molecular level and thus to understand the antimicrobial resistance and virulence patterns. Our study elucidates the impact of antibiotics on the Mtb genes at the molecular level and the positively enriched pathways, operons, and regulons data are helpful in understanding the resistance patterns in Mtb. The upregulated genes during the exposure of Bedaquiline and Capreomycin can be considered as potent drug targets for the development of new anti‐TB drugs.
Metformin treatment alleviates polycystic ovary syndrome by decreasing the expression of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 via H19/miR‐29b‐3p and AKT/mTOR/autophagy signaling pathways
Authors: Chen Zhilan , Wei Huafang , Zhao Xiaoling , Xin Xin , Peng Ling , Ning Yang , Wang Yapei , Lan Yanli , Zhang Qinghua
Published: April 2019

In this study, we aimed to investigate the molecular pathway(s) underlying the effect of metformin (MET) on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and gelatin zymography were used to assay the effects of MET on MMP and AMPK signaling pathways. In addition, HTOG cells were treated with miR‐29b‐3p/a scramble control, H19/a negative control, or MET/PBS to explore possible signaling pathway(s) underlying the inhibitory effect of MET on MMP‐2/MMP‐9. A rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was also established to validate the molecular mechanism(s) of MET in vivo. The administration of MET suppressed the expression of MMP‐9/MMP‐2 and mTOR while increasing the expression of Akt and AMPK, indicating that MET reduced the expression of MMPs via the AMPK signaling pathway. Meanwhile, the H19/miR‐29b‐3p/MMP‐9 and H19/miR‐29b‐3p/MMP‐2 signaling pathways were implicated in PCOS, in which the interactions between H19/miR‐29b‐3p and MMP‐9/MMP‐2/miR‐29b‐3p were confirmed. Furthermore, the administration of MET suppressed the expression of H19 while elevating the expression of miR‐29b‐3p. And the role of MET in PCOS was also confirmed in vivo via examining the activity of H19 and AMPK signaling pathways in cell or serum samples collected from PCOS rats. MET exhibits a therapeutic effect in the treatment of PCOS by reducing the expression of MMPs.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel 1‐Methyl‐3‐(4‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐indazole Derivatives
Authors: Hon Kiran S. , Akolkar Hemantkumar N. , Karale Bhausaheb K.
Published: April 2019

A series of novel 1‐methyl‐3‐(4‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐indazoles was synthesized in three steps from 5‐(1‐methyl‐1H‐indazol‐3‐yl)‐4‐phenyl‐2H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3(4H)‐thiones. 5‐(1‐Methyl‐1H‐indazol‐3‐yl)‐4‐phenyl‐2H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3(4H)‐thiones were converted into 1‐methyl‐3‐(5‐(methylsulfonyl)‐4‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐indazoles upon methylation followed by treatment with aq. KMnO4. The reaction of 1‐methyl‐3‐(5‐(methylsulfonyl)‐4‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐indazoles with Raney nickel resulted in desulphonylation to afford corresponding 1‐methyl‐3‐(4‐phenyl‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)‐1H‐indazoles. All the new synthesized compounds were characterized by spectral techniques.
Zero TE MRI applications to transcranial MR‐guided focused ultrasound: Patient screening and treatment efficiency estimation
Authors: Caballero‐Insaurriaga Jaime , Rodríguez‐Rojas Rafael , Martínez‐Fernández Raúl , Del‐Alamo Marta , Díaz‐Jiménez Laura , Ávila María , Martínez‐Rodrigo María , García‐Polo Pablo , Pineda‐Pardo José A.
Published: April 2019

Background

The high acoustic impedance of the skull limits the performance of transcranial magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound (tcMRgFUS) therapy. Subject suitability screening is based on skull parameters estimated from computed tomography (CT) scans.

Purpose

To assess the feasibility of screening for tcMRgFUS based on zero echo time (ZTE) MRI, and to explore the influence of measurable skull parameters in treatment performance.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Sixteen patients treated with tcMRgFUS thalamotomy for tremor.

Sequence

ZTE on a 3.0T GE scanner.

Assessment

Baseline CT and ZTE images were processed to extract skull measures associated with treatment success: skull density ratio (SDR), skull thickness, and angle of incidence. Eight new metrics were proposed. CT and ZTE‐based measures were compared. Each subject's energy–temperature curve was processed to extract a global estimate of efficiency and a measure of nonlinearity. These parameters were then correlated with the skull measures.

Statistical Tests

Linear regression analysis to compare ZTE vs. CT‐based measures, measures vs. efficiency, and measures vs. nonlinearity. Paired t‐test to assess nonlinearity.

Results

CT and ZTE‐based measures were significantly correlated (P < 0.01). In particular, classical metrics were robustly replicated (P < 0.001). The energy–temperature curves showed a nonlinear (logarithmic) relationship (P < 0.01). This nonlinearity was greater for thicker skulls (P < 0.01). Efficiency was correlated with skull thickness (P < 0.001) and SDR (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

The feasibility of ZTE‐based screening has been proven, potentially making it possible to avoid ionizing radiation and the extra imaging session required for CT. The characterization of the influence that skull properties have on tcMRgFUS may serve to develop patient‐specific heating models, potentially improving control over the treatment outcome. The relationship of skull thickness with efficiency and nonlinearity empowers the role of this metric in the definition of such models. In addition, the lower association of SDR with the energy–temperature curves emphasizes the need of revisiting this metric.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1583–1592.
Quality‐based pharmacokinetic model selection on DCE‐MRI for characterizing orbital lesions
Authors: Lecler Augustin , Balvay Daniel , Cuenod Charles‐André , Marais Louise , Zmuda Mathieu , Sadik Jean‐Claude , Galatoire Olivier , Farah Edgar , El Methni Jonathan , Zuber Kevin , Bergès Olivier , Savatovsky Julien , Fournier Laure
Published: April 2019

Background

Although several studies have evaluated dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI in the orbit, showing its utility when detecting and diagnosing orbital lesions, none have evaluated the pharmacokinetic models.

Purpose

To provide a quality‐based pharmacokinetic model selection for characterizing orbital lesions using DCE‐MRI at 3.0T.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

From December 2015 to April 2017, 151 patients with an orbital lesion underwent MRI prior to surgery, including a high temporal resolution DCE sequence, divided into one training and one test dataset with 100 and 51 patients, respectively.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T/DCE.

Assessment

Six different pharmacokinetic models were tested.

Statistical Tests

Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Wilcoxon‐2‐sample tests and a logistic regression to compare parameters between malignant and benign tumors for each pharmacokinetic model for the whole cohort. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed on the training dataset to determine area under curve (AUC) and optimal cutoff values for each pharmacokinetic model, then validated on the test dataset to calculate sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Results

Regardless of the model, tissue blood flow and tissue blood volume values were significantly higher in malignant vs. benign lesions: 103.8–195.1 vs. 65–113.8, P [<10‐4–2.10‐4] and 21.3–36.9 vs. 15.6–33.6, P [<10‐4–0.03] respectively. Extracellular volume fraction and permeability–surface area product or transfer constant appeared to be less relevant: 17.3–27.5 vs. 22.8–28.2, P [0.01–0.7], 1.7–4.9, P [0.2–0.9] and 9.5–38.8 vs. 8.1–22.8, P [<10‐4–0.6], respectively. ROC curves showed no significant differences in AUC between the different models. The two‐compartment exchange (2CX) model ranked first for quality.

Data Conclusion

DCE MRI pharmacokinetic model‐derived parameters appeared to be useful for discriminating benign from malignant orbital lesions. The 2CX model provided the best quality of modeling and should be recommended. Perfusion‐related DCE parameters appeared to be significantly more relevant to the diagnostic process.

Level of Evidence 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1514–1525.
Gas‐phase functionalized carbon‐carbon coupling reactions catalyzed by Ni (II) complexes
Authors: Piacentino Elettra L. , Rodriguez Edwin , Parker Kevin , Gilbert Thomas M. , O'Hair Richard A. J. , Ryzhov Victor
Published: April 2019

Gas‐phase C―C coupling reactions mediated by Ni (II) complexes were studied using a linear quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer. Ternary nickel cationic carboxylate complexes, [(phen)Ni (OOCR1)]+ (where phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline), were formed by electrospray ionization. Upon collision‐induced dissociation (CID), they extrude CO2 forming the organometallic cation [(phen)Ni(R1)]+, which undergoes gas‐phase ion‐molecule reactions (IMR) with acetate esters CH3COOR2 to yield the acetate complex [(phen)Ni (OOCCH3)]+ and a C―C coupling product R1‐R2. These Ni(II)/phenanthroline‐mediated coupling reactions can be performed with a variety of carbon substituents R1 and R2 (sp3, sp2, or aromatic), some of them functionalized. Reaction rates do not seem to be strongly dependent on the nature of the substituents, as sp3‐sp3 or sp2‐sp2 coupling reactions proceed rapidly. Experimental results are supported by density functional theory calculations, which provide insights into the energetics associated with the C―C bond coupling step.
Dealing with missing outcome data in meta‐analysis
Authors: Mavridis Dimitris , White Ian R.
Published: April 2019

Missing data result in less precise and possibly biased effect estimates in single studies. Bias arising from studies with incomplete outcome data is naturally propagated in a meta‐analysis. Conventional analysis using only individuals with available data is adequate when the meta‐analyst can be confident that the data are missing at random (MAR) in every study—that is, that the probability of missing data does not depend on unobserved variables, conditional on observed variables. Usually, such confidence is unjustified as participants may drop out due to lack of improvement or adverse effects. The MAR assumption cannot be tested, and a sensitivity analysis to assess how robust results are to reasonable deviations from the MAR assumption is important. Two methods may be used based on plausible alternative assumptions about the missing data. Firstly, the distribution of reasons for missing data may be used to impute the missing values. Secondly, the analyst may specify the magnitude and uncertainty of possible departures from the missing at random assumption, and these may be used to correct bias and reweight the studies. This is achieved by employing a pattern mixture model and describing how the outcome in the missing participants is related to the outcome in the completers. Ideally, this relationship is informed using expert opinion. The methods are illustrated in two examples with binary and continuous outcomes. We provide recommendations on what trial investigators and systematic reviewers should do to minimize the problem of missing outcome data in meta‐analysis.
Synergy between Sugar‐Based Anionic‐Nonionic Surfactants and Ag‐TiO2 Nanohybrids for Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Zhao Tianhong , Chen Ying , Li Ying , Pu Wanfen , He Yi
Published: April 2019

For improving the oil recovery performance, Ag‐TiO2 nanoparticles (NP) were added to the eco‐friendly sugar‐based anionic nonionic surfactant (GDA) solution, and the mixtures acted as the oil displacement agent. The synthesized GDA and Ag‐TiO2 were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT‐IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Changes in the zeta potential and transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of the mixtures confirmed their synergistic effects on the suspension stability. The relationships between surface tension, interfacial tension (IFT), three‐phase contact angle, and emulsion and oil recovery efficiency were comprehensively investigated, both before and after Ag‐TiO2 NP addition. We concluded that the Ag‐TiO2/GDA mixtures could effectively alter the contact angle, decrease IFT, and form stable emulsions, thereby resulting in the enhancement of oil recovery. The core flooding conducted with the stabilized NP‐surfactant (Ag‐TiO2 and GDA) fluid showed a marked improvement in oil recovery over 18%. This study provides additional options for using the synergistic effect of NP and surfactants for enhanced oil recovery.
Mussel‐Inspired Hydrogel Composite with Multi‐Stimuli Responsive Behavior
Authors: Yan Yun‐Hui , Rong Li‐Han , Ge Jin , Tiu Brylee David B. , Cao Peng‐Fei , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: April 2019

A mussel‐inspired adhesive hydrogel with pH, temperature, and near‐infrared (NIR) light–responsive behavior is designed. The hydrogel system is formulated by combining chitosan modified with catechol motifs, thermo‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) terminated with catechols, and light‐absorbing polypyrrole nanoparticles (PpyNPs). The effects of catechol concentration, molar ratio of Fe3+ to catechol units, pH, and the incorporation of the PpyNPs on the mechanical property of the formed hydrogel are investigated. The responsive behaviors of the resulting hydrogel composite to pH, temperature, and NIR light are also demonstrated. The obtained hydrogel also shows promising adhesive property to glass and steel substrates. It is anticipated that the fabricated adhesive hydrogel with multi‐responsive behavior, especially NIR light response, can potentially be useful in a wide range of biomedical applications, such as remotely controlled release systems and removable sealant materials.
One‐Step Fabrication of Superhydrophobic/Superoleophilic Electrodeposited Polythiophene for Oil and Water Separation
Authors: de Leon Al Christopher , Imperial Raiza Elmira S. , Chen Qiyi , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: April 2019

A facile, one‐step, and single‐component fabrication of superhydrophobic and superoleophilic coating by electropolymerization of polythiophene on a stainless steel mesh is presented. The resulting coating has low surface energy and shows surface morphology bearing both micro‐ and nano‐features without the need to add nanofillers, or pretreatment of the substrate to make it rough. The polythiophene coating also shows reversible wetting property (superhydrophobic to superhydrophilic, and vice versa) by electrochemical doping and dedoping. The coated mesh is shown to repel water of different pH (1, 7, and 14) and salt content. On the other hand, oil such as dichloromethane, gasoline, kerosene, dodecane, and crude oil can easily pass through the mesh. Therefore, the coated mesh is an excellent material for the separation of oil and water.
Multifunctional Gene Carriers Labeled by Perylene Diimide Derivative as Fluorescent Probe for Tracking Gene Delivery
Authors: Li Qian , Hao Xuefang , Guo Jintang , Ren Xiang‐Kui , Xia Shihai , Zhang Wencheng , Feng Yakai
Published: April 2019

Multifunctional carriers with both gene transfection property and fluorescent tracking function have attracted significant attention in recent years. Herein, a kind of perylene diimide derivative (PDI‐C10C8) is conjugated onto the polyethylenimine‐g‐poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide)‐g‐polyethylenimine (PLGA‐PEI) polymer to obtain fluorescent multifunctional polymer and micelles (abbreviated as MP). Then, the REDV‐G‐TAT‐G‐NLS (TP‐G) peptide sequence is grafted onto this MP to obtain multifunctional micelles labeled by perylene diimide derivative (MP‐TP‐G). These micelles exhibit enhanced photobleaching stability compared with the reference Cy5‐labeled micelles, and the fluorescent images of cellular uptake show bright red emission without any background noise. Confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) experiments show that gene complexes can deliver gene into nucleus. MP‐TP‐G carriers do not enter into the cell nucleus, which proves that the nuclear localization signal sequence may not exert its nucleus accumulation ability via conjugating to the amphiphilic polymers. The high transfection efficiency and the enhanced photobleaching stability, combined with the ability to monitor the detailed process of cellular uptake and gene delivery, make these multifunctional micelles have great potential application for endothelialization of artificial blood vessels and gene delivery process study.
Mechanical Properties of Aliphatic Polyester‐Based Structurally Engineered Composite Patches
Authors: Sharma Deepika , Satapathy Bhabani K.
Published: April 2019

Poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (PCL) and polylactide (PLA), biodegradable aliphatic polyesters, exhibit distinct mechanical properties. Integrated structures were fabricated by compaction of PLA/PCL mixed films (≈150µm) over PLA/PCL based entangled electrospun nanofibrous mats (fiber diameter ≈250–850 nm) by adopting (a) solvent adhesion and (b) hot compression techniques. The morphological, thermal, microstructural and quasi‐static mechanical properties of solvent‐cast films and integrated composite patches were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and tensile tests. It was found that solvent assisted consolidation efficiency remained inferior to the hot compression assisted consolidation techniques. The study further revealed an increase in onset‐to‐degradation temperature and in phase‐specific fractional crystallinity depending on the composition of films and mats. Composite patches with 70 wt% of PLA in the nano‐fiber mats flanked by PLA/PCL mixed solvent cast films with 80 wt% of PCL content showed the best ductility ratio irrespective of the consolidation technique. The tensile strength/modulus remained better in the composite patches obtained by hot compression while strain‐at‐break was superior in the patches obtained by solvent‐assisted consolidation technique. The study established the conceptual feasibility of developing structurally engineered composite patches with tunable physico‐mechanical properties. These materials can potentially be further explored as biomaterials for tissue engineering and wound healing applications owing to their inherent structural similarity of nanofibrous morphology of electrospun mats with the nano‐fibrous network of natural extracellular matrix (ECM).
Development of a novel polymer bending head system for the production of fuel lines
Authors: Ganzwind Johann , Dill Svenja , Müller‐Roosen Martin
Published: April 2019

The innovative system for shaping plastic pipes combines the advantages of computerized numerical control (CNC) pipe bending, established for metal pipes, with the thermofixing known for plastics. According to the principle of rapid prototyping, no complex bending tool shapes are required, but each bend is formed separately on the universal bending head. The bending process consists of forming, heating and cooling. In order to achieve the shortest possible cycle times, dielectric heating is used. Tests have shown that a new machine concept is necessary due to the plastic pipes and that conventional horizontal CNC bending cannot be used. It will also be shown that the design and layout of the universal bending head is possible with a suitable polymeric material. For this purpose, the acting forces were estimated and general requirements were formulated for the material. In addition, this material selection was limited by determining the dielectric properties under operational conditions. As a result, a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) type could be selected as a suitable material. The design of the bending head is based on mechanical and thermal simulations with this PEEK.
Multi‐Angle Light Scattering: An Efficient Tool Revealing Molecular Structure of Synthetic Polymers
Authors: Podzimek Stepan
Published: April 2019

Multi‐angle light scattering (MALS) photometers represent the most effective solution of the traditional problem of size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC), which is column calibration by means of narrow polymer standards. In addition to the ability to provide true molar mass distribution independently of any polymer standards, the combined SEC‐MALS technique is able to yield other important characteristics of polymers such as chain conformation and branching. Coupling an SEC‐MALS set‐up with an online viscosity detector is another step forward to the detailed insight into the polymer molecular structure. Asymmetric flow filed flow fractionation (AF4) is an alternative analytical separation technique capable of replacing SEC in the case of its failure. The paper provides a brief overview of various applications of SEC‐MALS and AF4‐MALS in the R&D and quality control of industrial polymers including introduction into basic theoretical principles.
Vitamin C mitigates heat damage by reducing oxidative stress, inducing HSP expression in TM4 Sertoli cells
Authors: Sun Jiarui , Yin Bin , Tang Shu , Zhang Xiaohui , Xu Jiao , Bao Endong
Published: April 2019

Heat stress is a major stressor that can lead to male reproductive dysfunction. Sertoli cells play a crucial role in spermatogenesis by providing germ cells with structural and nutritional support, and contributing to blood–testis barrier formation. Vitamin C (Vc) is an antioxidant capable of neutralizing reactive oxygen species and preventing lipid peroxidation widely used because it is inexpensive and highly accessible. In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of Vc on TM4 cells following heat stress. Pretreatment with Vc could effectively inhibit apoptosis (p < 0.01), lipid peroxidation, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity. However, a significant increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) level and LDH activity (p < 0.01) was observed in TM4 cells without Vc‐pretreatment, in conjunction with vacuole degeneration and karyopyknosis. In addition, both the messenger RNA and protein levels of CryAB, Hsp27, Hsp70, and Hsp110 substantially increased in the 3 and 12 hr recovery groups (p < 0.01). Vc also prevented microtubule aggregation following heat stress. These results suggest that pretreatment with Vc‐protected TM4 cells against heat stress by reducing the level of oxidative stress and inducing heat shock protein expression.
Porous medium 3D flow simulation of contrast media washout in cardiac MRI reflects myocardial injury
Authors: Riazy Leili , Schaeffter Tobias , Olbrich Marc , Schueler Johannes , von Knobelsdorff‐Brenkenhoff Florian , Niendorf Thoralf , Schulz‐Menger Jeanette
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Myocardial blood–flow simulation based on laws of fluid mechanics is a valuable tool for understanding tissue behavior. Our aim is to evaluate the ability of a porous‐media flow model approach to reflect disturbed washout of contrast media (CM) from the myocardium as observed by cardiovascular MR.

Methods

A coupled advection‐diffusion model is used to describe the CM flow in the vascular and extravascular space as separate compartments. Their exchange of CM is controlled by the exchange rate , which in turn determines the washout behavior. We fitted simulations to CM concentration measurements, derived from T1 maps of the midventricular slice. The CM concentration was extracted from 18 patients with myocarditis in the acute phase and during follow‐up after 6 months. The results were compared with 18 sex‐ and age‐matched controls. For each subject, the measurements were acquired before and during the first 10 minutes at 5 time points after CM administration, representing CM washout. Image registration was applied to compensate for motion between different time points.

Results

Eight matched data sets had to be excluded due to low registration quality. Processing was successful in n = 10 matched data sets of acute and healed myocarditis as well as controls. Significant differences in were observed when comparing patients with acute myocarditis to controls (P < .001), to their follow‐up (P < .05), and the follow‐up to controls (P < .05).

Conclusion

Our study suggests the feasibility of using the proposed porous‐medium flow framework for the simulation of pathologic myocardial tissue.
Effect of shoulder and elbow position on ulnar nerve conduction
Authors: Hsu Kevin , Robinson Lawrence R.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

The aims of this study were to determine the effect of shoulder and elbow position on ulnar nerve conduction studies (NCS), and the length of reserve that asymptomatic individuals have in their ulnar nerves.

Methods

Healthy subjects (n = 22) underwent ulnar NCS in 4 positions of shoulder abduction and elbow flexion.

Results

The mean increase in nerve conduction velocity (NCV) from the slack position of shoulder adducted and elbow extended to the stretch position of shoulder abducted and elbow flexed was 2.9 m/s (P < 0.01). Using this difference, the mean length of reserve in the ulnar nerve along the limb was found to be 28.3 (SD=13.8) mm. Shoulder abduction increased the mean NCV 0.8 m/s (P = 0.03) independent of elbow flexion.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates an ulnar nerve reserve in healthy patients that is taken up with shoulder abduction and elbow flexion and suggests shoulder position should be standardized during ulnar NCS. Muscle Nerve, 2019
Neuregulin‐1‐ErbB signaling promotes microglia activation contributing to mechanical allodynia of cyclophosphamide‐induced cystitis
Authors: Chen Jia‐Liang , Zhou Xin , Ding Hong‐Lu , Zhan Hai‐Lun , Yang Fei , Li Wen‐Biao , Xie Jun‐Cong , Liu Xian‐Guo , Xu Yuan‐Cheng , Su Min‐Zhi , Liu Bo‐Long , Zhou Xiang‐Fu
Published: April 2019

Aims

Central sensitization playsimportant roles in cyclophosphamide (CYP)‐induced cystitis. In addition, as a visceral pain, CYP‐induced chronic pain shares common pathophysiological mechanisms with neuropathic pain. Previous studies demonstrated that neuregulin‐1 (Nrg1)‐ErbB signaling contributes to neuropathic pain, but whether and how this signaling influences mechanical allodynia in CYP‐induced cystitis is unclear. This study aimed to determine whether and how Nrg1‐ErbB signaling modulates mechanical allodynia in a CYP‐induced cystitis rat model.

Methods

Systemic injection with CYP was used to establish a rat model of bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC). An irreversible ErbB family receptor inhibitor, PD168393, and exogenous Nrg1 were intrathecally injected to modulate Nrg1‐ErbB signaling. Mechanical allodynia in the lower abdomen was assessed with von‐Frey filaments using the up‐down method. Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining were used to measure the expression of Nrg1‐ErbB signaling, Iba‐1, p‐p38, and IL‐1β in the L6‐S1 spinal dorsal horn (SDH).

Results

We observed upregulation of Nrg1‐ErbB signaling as well as overexpression of the microglia activation markers Iba‐1 and p‐p38 and the proinflammatory factor, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), in the SDH of the cystitis group. Further, treatment with PD168393 attenuated mechanical allodynia in CYP‐induced cystitis and inhibited microglia activation, leading to decreased production of IL‐1β. The inhibitor PD168393 reversed the algesic effect of exogenous Nrg1 on the cystitis model.

Conclusions

Nrg1‐ErbB signaling may promote microglia activation, contributing to mechanical allodynia of CYP‐induced cystitis. Our study showed that modulation of Nrg1‐ErbB signaling may have therapeutic value for treating pain symptoms in BPS/IC.