bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Olive oil enrichment in phenolic compounds during malaxation in the presence of olive leaves or olive mill wastewater extracts
Authors: Kiritsakis Konstantinos , Rodríguez‐Pérez Celia , Gerasopoulos Dimitrios , Segura‐ Carretero Antonio
Published: April 2017

A combined study was performed to determine the effect of olive leaf aqueous extract (OLE), olive mill wastewater (OMWW) or water addition during the malaxation step on total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, virgin olive oil composition and quality parameters of olive oil. For these purposes, the Folin‐Ciocalteu assay, 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, and HPLC‐ESI‐TOF/MS were employed. The experiments were carried out at semi‐industrial scale in a cold extraction olive oil mill using olives of Koroneiki cultivar. Olive oil produced by olive paste which was malaxed without adding water, OMWW, or OLE was employed as control. The use of OMWW and OLE allowed obtaining oils with higher significant TPC compared to that malaxed with water (146.2 and 151.8 vs. 132.8 μg Eq GAE/g oil, respectively). The antioxidant activity followed the same trend. The use of OMWW and OLE enabled an oil enrichment in oleuropein derivatives, especially in 3,4‐DHPEA‐EDA. Despite the fact that acidity and oxidation (K270 and K232 values) were higher in the aforementioned oils compared to the oil extracted with water, all values were under the European Union commission parameters for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) denomination. However, only the oil extracted using OLE presented slightly higher fruity, bitter, and pungent positive attributes compared to the control and to the oil extracted with water, thus, making OLE a promising by‐product for improving olive oils.

Practical applications: This research provides new insight for the improvement of olive oil extraction process in order to obtain high‐phenol EVOO which could be useful for the olive oil, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals industries. Besides, this study could serve as a starting point for improving the olive oil production process, while reducing the impact of its by‐products.

The addition of Olive mil wastewater (OMWW) and olive leaf extract during malaxation, allowed obtaining enriched oils with a higher content in total phenolics, and antioxidant activity compared to those obtained adding water. These enriched oils presentes higher quantities of oleuropein derivatives and specifically of 3,4‐DHPEA‐EDA.
Motivational and behavioural models of change: A longitudinal analysis of change among men with chronic haemophilia‐related joint pain
Authors: Elander J. , Richardson C. , Morris J. , Robinson G. , Schofield M.B.
Published: April 2017

Background

Motivational and behavioural models of adjustment to chronic pain make different predictions about change processes, which can be tested in longitudinal analyses.

Methods

We examined changes in motivation, coping and acceptance among 78 men with chronic haemophilia‐related joint pain. Using cross‐lagged regression analyses of changes from baseline to 6 months as predictors of changes from 6 to 12 months, with supplementary structural equation modelling, we tested two models in which motivational changes influence behavioural changes, and one in which behavioural changes influence motivational changes.

Results

Changes in motivation to self‐manage pain influenced later changes in pain coping, consistent with the motivational model of pain self‐management, and also influenced later changes in activity engagement, the behavioural component of pain acceptance. Changes in activity engagement influenced later changes in pain willingness, consistent with the behavioural model of pain acceptance.

Conclusions

Based on the findings, a combined model of changes in pain self‐management and acceptance is proposed, which could guide combined interventions based on theories of motivation, coping and acceptance in chronic pain.

Significance

This study adds longitudinal evidence about sequential change processes; a test of the motivational model of pain self‐management; and tests of behavioural versus motivational models of pain acceptance.
Dye removal from wastewater by the cross‐linked blend nanofiber and homogenous surface diffusion modeling
Authors: Mahmoodi Niyaz Mohammad , Mokhtari‐Shourijeh Zahra , Ghane‐Karade Asieh
Published: April 2017

In this paper, the blend nanofiber (poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/chitosan (CS)/diethylenetriamine (DETA)/ethylenediamine (EDA): PVA/CS/DETA/EDA) was prepared by electrospinning and cross‐linked by glutaraldehyde. The cross‐linked blend nanofiber by glutaraldehyde (CBNG) was characterized by FTIR and SEM. The homogenous surface diffusion model (HSDM) was used for expressing the dye adsorption on CBNG from colored wastewater. Experimental data were used to calculate the isotherm parameters as well as the kinetic parameters describing mass transfer resistances due to film diffusion (kf) and diffusion coefficient (Ds). The sum square error (SSE) values for the adsorption of Acid Red 18 (AR18), Direct Blue 78 (DB78), and Direct Red 23 (DR23) were 0.0221, 0.0632, and 0.0038, respectively. Thus, the experimental and theoretical data showed a good agreement. Dye removal by CBNG followed the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo‐second order kinetics models. Thermodynamic studies indicated dye adsorption onto the nanofiber was an endothermic, spontaneous, and physisorption process. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1634–1642, 2017
Influence of fungal low molecular weight organic acids on extraction and speciation of runoff particulate‐associated phosphorus: Implications for nonpoint phosphorus recovery and beneficial reuse
Authors: Mondala Andro , Shields Shaun , Gaviglio Katie , Kaczmarek Stephen
Published: April 2017

Massive nonpoint particulate‐bound phosphorus (P) losses in runoff and erosion streams cause eutrophication and toxic algal blooms in surface water bodies that receive these streams. On the other hand, runoff particulates can be regarded as a “new” sustainable source of P that can be recovered and reused in agriculture to minimize dependence on mined P sources. In this study, the effects of low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOA) generated by P‐solubilizing fungi (PSF) on bound P extraction efficiency and inorganic P speciation from intercepted runoff sediments discharging into a eutrophic lake were investigated. Runoff sediments were processed using model aqueous LMWOA solutions and cell‐free PSF culture broths containing oxalate and citrate. Up to 61% of total bound P were extracted from runoff sediments using 2:1 and 1:1 (by molarity) oxalate‐citrate mixtures. Equilibrium soluble P levels were reached within 120 min of extraction. Majority of the extracted P originated from potentially bioavailable Fe‐bound P pools whereas some desorbed P appeared to reform as Ca‐P phases when using oxalate‐dominant extractant mixtures. Extractions using cell‐free fungal culture broth demonstrated higher P mobilization rates than using pure aqueous LMWOA solutions, indicating the relevance of other non‐LMWOA‐related chelating and dissolution mechanisms. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1810–1816, 2017
Dodecyl sulfate chain‐anchored mercerized lignocellulose agro‐waste: An effective and sustainable adsorbent to sequester heavy metal ions from an aqueous phase
Authors: Ali Khan Moonis , Ali Mohd Sajid , Abdullah Alothman Zeid , Siddiqui Masoom Raza , Al‐Lohedan Hamad A.
Published: April 2017

Herein, dodecyl sulfate chain‐anchored mercerized lignocellulosic (SMPS) agro‐waste biomass was developed through hydrophobic interaction to enhance negatively charged surface sites concentration, consequently increasing SMPS potential to adsorb highly toxic cationic heavy metal ions viz. Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) from an aqueous phase. Spectrophotometric and elemental analyses confirmed successful modification and heavy metal ions adsorption over mesoporous SMPS surface. Experimental parameters viz. pH, concentration, temperature, and adsorbent dose have a profound influence on heavy metal ions adsorption. Lead [Pb(II)] had the lowest hydrolyzing tendency and the strongest binding potential among the studied metals; therefore, it showed the highest adsorption, followed by Cd(II) and Zn(II). Extremely rapid adsorption kinetics was observed, accomplishing 90–97% heavy metal ions adsorption within 15 min. Isotherm and kinetics studies showed Freundlich and pseudo‐second‐order models applicability, respectively. The process was endothermic and spontaneous. Breakthrough capacities for Pb(II), Cd(II), and Zn(II) were 0.01, 0.05, and 0.05 mmol/g, respectively. The maximum amounts of metal ions were eluted with acids. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 1676–1684, 2017
Neural correlates of experimental trauma memory retrieval
Authors: Gvozdanovic Geraldine A. , Stämpfli Philipp , Seifritz Erich , Rasch Björn
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Traumatic memories such as intrusions and flashbacks play a major role in the development and maintenance of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A thorough understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying traumatic memories is indispensable for precise diagnosis, for personalized treatment and prevention. In particular, the identification of early neural predictor variables for intrusion development shortly after trauma exposure requires detailed investigation. Experimental design: Here, we examined the neural correlates of early experimental trauma memory retrieval in a traumatic film paradigm in 42 young healthy females, using both implicit and explicit retrieval tasks. Principal observations: We show that implicit experimental trauma retrieval specifically involved the retrosplenial cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), while both retrieval tasks resulted in trauma‐related activity in the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and the precuneus. Importantly, neural activity early after experimental trauma exposure predicted later intrusion development, with independent contributions from activity in the retrosplenial cortex (implicit retrieval) and the PCC (explicit retrieval). Additional analyses revealed a stronger connectivity between the bilateral amygdala and the supplementary motor area, precentral and paracentral lobule for the control group compared to the experimental trauma group. Conclusions: Our study gives new insights in the neural correlates of experimental trauma memory retrieval and their predictive value for subsequent symptom development. Our results could provide the basis for personalized early treatment and prevention of PTSD. Hum Brain Mapp, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Brain Mapp 38:3592–3602, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surface orientation effects on bending properties of surgical mesh are independent of tensile properties
Authors: Simon David D. , Andrews Sharon M. , Robinson‐Zeigler Rebecca , Valdes Thelma , Woods Terry O.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Current mechanical testing of surgical mesh focuses primarily on tensile properties even though implanted devices are not subjected to pure tensile loads. Our objective was to determine the flexural (bending) properties of surgical mesh and determine if they correlate with mesh tensile properties.

Methods

The flexural rigidity values of 11 different surgical mesh designs were determined along three textile directions (machine, cross‐machine, and 45° to machine; n = 5 for each) using ASTM D1388‐14 while tracking surface orientation. Tensile testing was also performed on the same specimens using ASTM D882‐12. Linear regressions were performed to compare mesh flexural rigidity to mesh thickness, areal mass density, filament diameter, ultimate tensile strength, and maximum extension.

Results

Of 33 mesh specimen groups, 30 had significant differences in flexural rigidity values when comparing surface orientations (top and bottom). Flexural rigidity and mesh tensile properties also varied with textile direction (machine and cross‐machine). There was no strong correlation between the flexural and tensile properties, with mesh thickness having the best overall correlation with flexural rigidity.

Conclusions

Currently, surface orientation is not indicated on marketed surgical mesh, and a single mesh may behave differently depending on the direction of loading. The lack of correlation between flexural stiffness and tensile properties indicates the need to examine mesh bending stiffness to provide a more comprehensive understanding of surgical mesh mechanical behaviors. Further investigation is needed to determine if these flexural properties result in the surgical mesh behaving mechanically different depending on implantation direction. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 854–862, 2018.
Connexin43 and Runx2 Interact to Affect Cortical Bone Geometry, Skeletal Development, and Osteoblast and Osteoclast Function
Authors: Buo Atum M , Tomlinson Ryan E , Eidelman Eric R , Chason Max , Stains Joseph P
Published: April 2017

The coupling of osteoblasts and osteocytes by connexin43 (Cx43) gap junctions permits the sharing of second messengers that coordinate bone cell function and cortical bone acquisition. However, details of how Cx43 converts shared second messengers into signals that converge onto essential osteogenic processes are incomplete. Here, we use in vitro and in vivo methods to show that Cx43 and Runx2 functionally interact to regulate osteoblast gene expression and proliferation, ultimately affecting cortical bone properties. Using compound hemizygous mice for the Gja1 (Cx43) and Runx2 genes, we observed a skeletal phenotype not visible in wild-type or singly hemizygous animals. Cortical bone analysis by micro–computed tomography (μCT) revealed that 8-week-old male, compound Gja1+/–Runx2+/– mice have a marked increase in cross-sectional area, endosteal and periosteal bone perimeter, and an increase in porosity compared to controls. These compound Gja1+/–Runx2+/– mice closely approximate the cortical bone phenotypes seen in osteoblast-specific Gja1-conditional knockout models. Furthermore, μCT analysis of skulls revealed an altered interparietal bone geometry in compound hemizygotes. Consistent with this finding, Alizarin red/Alcian blue staining of 2-day-old Gja1+/–Runx2+/– neonates showed a hypomorphic interparietal bone, an exacerbation of the open fontanelles, and a further reduction in the hypoplastic clavicles compared to Runx2+/– neonates. Expression of osteoblast genes, including osteocalcin, osterix, periostin, and Hsp47, was markedly reduced in tibial RNA extracts from compound hemizygous mice, and osteoblasts from compound hemizygous mice exhibited increased proliferative capacity. Further, the reduced osteocalcin expression and hyperproliferative nature of osteoblasts from Cx43 deficient mice was rescued by Runx2 expression. In summary, these findings provide evidence that Cx43 and Runx2 functionally intersect in vivo to regulate cortical bone properties and affect osteoblast differentiation and proliferation, and likely contributes to aspects of the skeletal phenotype of Cx43 conditional knockout mice. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Cytokinetic Abscission: Phosphoinositides and ESCRTs Direct the Final Cut
Authors: Gulluni Federico , Martini Miriam , Hirsch Emilio
Published: April 2017

Cytokinetic abscission involves the fine and regulated recruitment of membrane remodeling proteins that participate in the abscission of the intracellular bridge that connects the two dividing cells. This essential process is mediated by the concomitant activity of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) and the vesicular trafficking directed to the midbody. Phosphoinositides (PtdIns), produced at plasma membrane, and endosomes, act as molecular intermediates by recruiting effector proteins involved in multiple cellular processes, such as intracellular signaling, endo‐ and exo‐cytosis, and membrane remodeling events. Emerging evidences suggest that PtdIns have an active role in recruiting key elements that control the stability and the remodeling of the cytoskeleton from the furrow ingression to the abscission, at the end of cytokinesis. Accordingly, a possible concomitant and coordinated activity between PtdIns production and ESCRT machinery assembly could also exist and recent findings are pointing the attention on poorly understood ESCRT subunits potentially able to associate with PtdIns rich membranes. Although further studies are required to link PtdIns to ESCRT machinery during abscission, this might represent a promising field of study. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3561–3568, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced Entrapment and Improved in Vitro Controlled Release of N‐Acetyl Cysteine in Hybrid PLGA/Lecithin Nanoparticles Prepared Using a Nanoprecipitation/Self‐Assembly Method
Authors: Ahmaditabar Parvin , Momtazi‐Borojeni Amir A. , Rezayan Ali H. , Mahmoodi Mahboobeh , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Mellat Mostafa
Published: April 2017

To enhance the in vitro controlled release of N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC), hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) consisting of a poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) hydrophobic core and a soybean lecithin mono‐layer coat were prepared. Hybrid NPs were synthesized using a nanoprecipitation combined with self‐assembly method. To characterize prepared NPs, zeta potential, diameter size, surface morphology, disparity, and lipid coating of hybrid NPs were detrmined using dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy techniques. High‐performance liquid chromatography was employed to evaluate drug loading yield and encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release of prepared NPs. The cytotoxicity of hybrid NPs was assayed on normal L929 alveolar epithelial cells using MTT method. Prepared NPs were found to disperse as individual NPs with a well‐defined spherical shape. The hydrodynamic diameter and surface charge of NAC‐loaded hybrid NPs were 81.8 ± 1.3 nm and −33.1 ± 2.1 mV, respectively. Drug loading yield and encapsulation efficiency of NAC‐loaded hybrid NPs were found to be 38 ± 2.1% and 67 ± 5.7%, respectively. Prepared hybrid NPs showed no significant cytotoxicity against normal alveolar cells. Our data suggest that the hybrid PLGA‐lecithin NPs may be An efficient controlled release drug delivery system for NAC. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4203–4209, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Self‐Determination Theory Perspective on Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Early Parenting Behaviors
Authors: Brenning Katrijn , Soenens Bart
Published: April 2017

Objective

On the basis of self‐determination theory, this study investigates longitudinal associations between satisfaction and frustration mothers’ basic psychological needs (i.e., autonomy, relatedness, competence) and mothers’ postnatal depressive symptoms and early parenting behaviors.

Method

Participants were 214 women assessed during their pregnancy (Time 1), 4 months after delivery (Time 2), and when the child was 2 years old (Time 3).

Results

Results demonstrate effects of prenatal basic psychological needs (needs frustration more specifically) on postnatal depressive symptoms. In addition, general prenatal needs satisfaction and frustration predicted more relationship‐specific needs satisfaction and frustration, respectively (in the mother–child relationship). In turn, postnatal relationship‐specific needs satisfaction predicted more high‐quality parenting when the child is 2 years old. More specifically, needs satisfaction was related to more maternal responsiveness and autonomy support.

Conclusion

Overall, these findings underscore the importance of psychological needs experiences for both mothers’ personal adjustment after birth and for the early mother–child relationship.
A Comparison of Practitioner and Student Writing in Civil Engineering
Authors: Conrad Susan
Published: April 2017

Background

Numerous studies have identified a gap between the writing skills of engineering program graduates and the demands of writing in the workplace; however, few studies have analyzed the writing of practitioners and students to better understand that gap and inform teaching materials.

Purpose

This study sought to compare word‐level, sentence‐level, and organizational differences in writing by practitioners and students and to identify differences that are important for engineering practice. I also sought to demonstrate the untapped potential for linguistic analyses to contribute to understanding engineering writing.

Design/Method

I used techniques from applied linguistics – corpus linguistics and rhetorical move analysis – supplemented with interviews of practitioners and students. The analysis investigated the interaction of language features, their functions, and writers' motivations.

Results

Student writing had more complicated sentence structures, less accurate word choice, more errors in grammar and punctuation, and less linear organization. These characteristics decreased effectiveness in areas that practitioners considered important: accurate and unambiguous content; fast, predicable reading; liability management; and attention to detail. Underlying the student writing problems were misconceptions about effective writing, ignorance of genre expectations, weak language skills, and a failure to appreciate that written words, not just calculations, express engineering content.

Conclusions

The findings better define the gap between student and practitioner writing, and are a basis for instructional materials that target important student writing weaknesses.
Study on a New Method for Synthesis of Mirabegron
Authors: Xu Guiqing , Mao Shen , Mao Longfei , Jiang Yuqin , Zhou Yong , Shen Jiaxuan , Dong Wenpei
Published: April 2017

Mirabegron is a muscle relaxing drug for the treatment of overactive bladder. The existing synthetic methods for mirabegron produced intermediate product 4‐(2‐(phenethylamino)ethyl)aniline, which complicated the final product purification process. In this study, we designed a new synthetic route for mirabegron with low cost starting materials and a production of mirabegron at a 99.6% purity and a 61% overall yield. Particularly, this new synthetic route did not produce side product 4‐(2‐(phenethylamino)ethyl)aniline, which significantly simplified the product purification process.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Spectral Characterization of Six Novel Benzimidazolyl Substituted Triaryltriazoles
Authors: Zhou Yong‐Fei , Zhang Shi‐Pei , Feng Zhe , Shen Xuan , Zhu Dun‐Ru
Published: April 2017

Six new benzimidazolyl substituted triaryltriazoles, 3‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4‐(p‐R‐phenyl)‐5‐(2‐benzimidazolyl)‐1,2,4‐triazoles (L1: R = OCH3; L2: R = CH3; L3: R = H; L4: R = Br; L5: R = Cl; L6: R = F) were successfully synthesized. Yield of L1–6 is in the range from 61 to 76%. The compounds L1–6 were characterized by UV–vis, FTIR, 1H‐NMR, ESI‐MS spectra, and elemental analysis. Additionally, the absolute configurations of L1–5 were determined by single crystal X‐ray crystallography.
Synthesis of a New Biologically Active α‐Ketothioamide Quinolone Derivatives
Authors: Poor Mahboobe Amirani , Darehkordi Ali , Anary‐Abbasinejad Mohammad , Sodkouieh Somayeh Mohamadi
Published: April 2017

In order to improve of biological activities a series of antibiotic drugs, we reacted quinolone derivatives with arylglyoxals and sulfur element at present sodium sulfide as a catalyst in DMF under reflux conditions. The α‐ketothioamide quinolone derivatives were synthesized via Willgerodt–Kindler reaction in good to excellent yields (83–95%).
Antimicrobial Evaluation of New Quinoxaline Derivatives Synthesized by Selective Coupling with Alkyl Halides and Amino Acids Esters
Authors: Boraei Ahmed T. A. , El Tamany El Sayed H. , Ali Ibrahim A. I. , Gebriel Sara M.
Published: April 2017

Alkylation of quinoxaline scaffold 1 in the presence of K2CO3 preferred N‐alkylation than O‐alkylation. Quinoxaline hydrazide 6 was successfully coupled with various amino acids, esters, and amines via azide‐coupling method. New heterocyclic compounds containing quinoxaline linked to 1,3,4‐oxadiazolethione or pyrazole were obtained from cyclization of 6 with CS2 and acetylacetone, respectively. A series of hydrazide Schiff's bases were formed from hydrazide 6 by condensation with a set of aldehydes and ketones. NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry were used for structure elucidation of new compounds. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized compounds was investigated toward two wild‐type bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) and two fungal species (Alternaria brassicicola and Fusarium oxysporum). Four compounds displayed a significant activity toward S. aureus. The ester 4 showed higher activity than the standard drugs, which make it a promising lead compound.
Prospective comparison of biphasic contrast‐enhanced CT, volume perfusion CT, and 3 Tesla MRI with diffusion‐weighted imaging for insulinoma detection
Authors: Zhu Liang , Xue Huadan , Sun Zhaoyong , Li Ping , Qian Tianyi , Xing Xiaoping , Li Naishi , Zhao Yupei , Wu Wenming , Jin Zhengyu
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of biphasic contrast‐enhanced CT (CECT), volume perfusion CT (VPCT) and 3 Tesla MRI with diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), in patients with clinically suspected insulinomas.

Materials and Methods

This prospective study was approved by the institutional review board. Sixty‐four patients with clinically suspected insulinomas underwent biphasic CECT, VPCT, and 3T MR with DWI. Two radiologists independently determined the presence/absence of tumor using a 5‐scale confidence level. Conspicuity of the lesion and clarity of tumor‐to‐pancreatic duct distance were graded. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to compare diagnostic performance.

Results

Forty‐seven patients were tumor positive, with 51 tumors. The differences between the areas under the curve values for tumor detection were as follows: 0.715 (CECT), 0.903 (VPCT), 0.832 (MRI without DWI) and 0.955 (MRI with DWI) for reader 1, and 0.738 (CECT), 0.895 (VPCT), 0.841 (MRI without DWI), and 0.956 (MRI with DWI) for reader 2. MRI with DWI and VPCT were significantly more accurate than CECT for insulinoma detection (P = 0.01 and 0.02 for reader 1, and P = 0.01 and 0.03 for reader 2). Lesion conspicuity was better on MRI compared with VPCT (P = 0.01), and both were better than CECT (both P < 0.01). Tumor‐to‐pancreatic duct distance was better appreciated on MRI, compared with CECT and VPCT (both P < 0.01). The weighted k values indicate good to excellent agreement between observers for determining tumor presence/absence (k = 0.64–0.84).

Conclusion

The 3T MRI with DWI and VPCT are significantly more accurate than CECT for insulinoma detection. MRI demonstrates higher tumor conspicuity and is superior in depicting the tumor‐to‐duct distance.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1648–1655.
Delayed gadolinium‐enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC) and T2 mapping of talar osteochondral lesions: Indicators of clinical outcomes
Authors: Rehnitz Christoph , Kuni Benita , Wuennemann Felix , Chloridis Dimitrios , Kirwadi Anand , Burkholder Iris , Kauczor Hans‐Ulrich , Weber Marc‐André
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the utility of delayed gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of cartilage (dGEMRIC) and T2 mapping in evaluation of type II osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the talus and define cutoff values for identifying patients with good/poor clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods

28 patients (mean age, 42.3 years) underwent T2 mapping and dGEMRIC at least 1.5 years (mean duration, 3.5 years) after microfracture (n = 12) or conservative (n = 16) treatment for type II OCL. Clinical outcomes were considered good with an American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score ≥80. The T1/T2‐values and indices of repair tissue (RT; cartilage above the OCL) were compared to those of the adjacent normal cartilage (NC) by region‐of‐interest analysis. The ability of the two methods to discriminate RT from NC was determined by area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) analysis. The Youden index was maximized for T1/T2 measures for identifying cutoff values indicative of good/poor clinical outcomes.

Results

Repair tissue exhibited lower dGEMRIC values (629.83 vs. 738.51 msec) and higher T2 values (62.07 vs. 40.69 msec) than NC (P < 0.001). T2 mapping exhibited greater AUC than dGEMRIC (0.88 vs. 0.69; P = 0.0398). All T1 measures exhibited higher maximized Youden indices than the corresponding T2 measures. The highest maximized Youden index for T1difference was observed at a cutoff value of 84 msec (sensitivity, 78%; specificity, 83%).

Conclusion

While T2 mapping is superior to dGEMRIC in discriminating RT, the latter better identifies good/poor clinical outcomes in patients with type II talar OCL.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1601–1610.
PEG‐poly(L‐lysine)‐based polymeric micelle MRI contrast agent: Feasibility study of a Gd‐micelle contrast agent for MR lymphography
Authors: Akai Hiroyuki , Shiraishi Kouichi , Yokoyama Masayuki , Yasaka Koichiro , Nojima Masanori , Inoue Yusuke , Abe Osamu , Ohtomo Kuni , Kiryu Shigeru
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of polymeric micelle of poly(ethyleneglycol) (PEG)‐b‐poly(L‐lysine‐DOTA) (Gd‐micelle) as a contrast agent for magnetic resonance lymphography (MRL).

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four female BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups of six mice each. Among them, mice of two groups were injected of complete Freund's adjuvant to obtain inflamed lymph nodes. We subcutaneously injected 0.5 μmol Gd per mouse of Gd‐micelle or gadofluorine P in the right rear footpad. Identical 3D T1‐weighted gradient‐echo imaging (1T MRI system) were subsequently obtained to create time–intensity curves of the right popliteal, sacral, and lumbar‐aortic lymph nodes and to measure the contrast ratios (CRs). The peak CR, area under the curve (AUC), and elimination half‐life (T1/2) of CR of the popliteal lymph node were assessed by two‐way factorial analysis of variance. We also performed a qualitative assessment of normal and inflamed lymph node at three timepoints.

Results

The mean peak CR of Gd‐micelle was 2.64 and 1.89 for gadofluorine P in normal mice, and 3.48 and 2.73 in the inflamed lymph node. Statistically, peak CR was higher for Gd‐micelle (P = 0.004). In addition, the AUC was larger (P < 0.001) and T1/2 was longer (P < 0.001) for Gd‐micelle. In qualitative assessment, Gd‐micelle demonstrated the same or higher scores in every lymph node, and demonstrated a higher score in lumbar‐aortic lymph node of a 360‐minute image (P = 0.006) and in inflamed lymph node of a 360‐minute image (P = 0.009).

Conclusion

Compared to gadofluorine P, Gd‐micelle showed higher and more prolonged enhancement in MRL imaging in normal and inflamed lymph nodes.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:238–245.
Electromagnetic tracking for femoral derotation osteotomy—an in vivo study
Authors: Geisbüsch Andreas , Auer Christoph , Dickhaus Hartmut , Putz Cornelia , Dreher Thomas
Published: April 2017

Femoral derotation osteotomy delivers good to excellent results in the treatment of rotational gait abnormalities and especially in internal rotation gait. The outcome of the procedure has been evaluated in numerous short‐ and long‐term studies. Although reasons for recurrence and over‐/under‐correction have been unveiled in earlier studies the mechanisms are still not fully understood. False intra‐operative assessment of the derotation angle may contribute to imprecise outcomes. In a recent saw‐bone study we evaluated an electromagnetic tracking system in comparison to conventional goniometer measurement and a CT reference measurement and found it to be extremely accurate, whereas the use of a conventional goniometer for derotation measurement showed a high inter‐ and intra‐rater variability. The current study evaluates the electromagnetic tracking system for continuous intra‐operative derotation control under real OR conditions. Adults (age: 18–40 years) with the diagnosis of internal rotation gait, independent of the underling pathology, undergoing a supracondylar deroation osteotomy were included. A rotational CT scan was conducted before and in close proximity after surgery and the difference served as reference for the electromagnetic tracking results. The results showed a mean deviation of 2.6° (1.2–5.5°) in comparison to the reference measurement of the pre‐ and post‐operative CT scans. The system proved to be stable under OR conditions with a good usability and a small technical footprint. Electromagnetic tracking delivers a precise, reliable, and independent assessment of intra‐operative derotation angles in femoral derotation osteotomies. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2652–2657, 2017.
Ancient Runoff Harvesting Agriculture in the Hyper‐Arid Uvda Valley of Israel: An Agro‐Hydrological Assessment
Authors: Stavi Ilan , Shem‐Tov Rahamim , Ragolsky Gidon , Lekach Judith
Published: April 2017

Archaeological surveys conducted since the 1980s in the hyper‐arid Uvda Valley of southern Israel revealed extensive lands with runoff harvesting systems for growing barley and wheat during ancient times. Despite the impossibility of dating the earth and stone installations of terraces and limans due to their decay over time, a wealth of ancient agricultural tools located across the valley revealed inhabitation between the Late Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Early Bronze ages. Also, cropping of barley in the valley's runoff harvesting systems took place until the 1950s by local Bedouin populations. The objective of this study was to assess the valley's agronomic potential under current climatic conditions. This was assessed by the analysis of precipitation (P) and reference evapotranspiration (ETo) data for the rainy seasons during a 17‐year period between 1999–2000 and 2015–2016. Using the ETo data and the single crop coefficient (Kc) for barley and wheat allowed the calculation of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) and the seasonal soil water deficit (D). Hydrological assessment of the valley's basin allowed the calculation of potential runoff volumes which could be available for agricultural use on the valley floor. Overall, the results showed a potential for successful cereal cultivation only in one to two years during this 17‐year period. This revealed no viability for local agriculture under current climatic conditions. Insights from this study consist with other studies which indicated considerably drier climatic conditions at present compared to those in ancient times, and even compared to those in the mid‐twentieth century. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of the Organic Matter in Wood Ash from Biomass Power Plants in Relation to the Potential Use as Amendments in Agriculture
Authors: Merino Agustín , Omil Beatriz , Hidalgo Claudia , Etchevers Jorge D. , Balboa Miguel A.
Published: April 2017

As a result of the increased demand for bioenergy, wood ash (WA), the main residue generated, may become a major source of pyrogenic organic matter. WA contains organic aromatic structures and could be used in agriculture, in a similar way to biochar, to improve the amount and quality of soil OM (OM). However, the organic composition of WA may differ from that of biochar, which has not yet been addressed. In the present study, different types of fly wood ash (FWA) and mixed wood ash (MWA), generated in industrial boilers, were characterized and compared with biochar generated from different feedstocks and at different temperatures (300 and 600 °C). WA differed in the amount and composition of the OM. The OM in MWA consisted of condensed carbon as well as substantial amounts of lightly charred plant biomass. Because of the low degree of carbonization of this OM, it may be susceptible to microbial degradation after application to soil. By contrast, the OM in FWA comprises highly carbonized and condensed organic compounds, similar to those in biochar. Selection of the most suitable type of WA will be determined by the requirements of the specific soils. MWA could be used to amend soils requiring high amounts of OM, whereas FWA might be more appropriate for application in acid soils rich in OM. Thermal analysis proved a useful tool for characterizing the charred material in these by‐products in order to determine the best strategy for use of the material in agriculture. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased Blinking May Be a Precursor of Blepharospasm: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Conte Antonella , Ferrazzano Gina , Defazio Giovanni , Fabbrini Giovanni , Hallett Mark , Berardelli Alfredo
Published: April 2017

Background

The objective of this 5‐year longitudinal study was to investigate whether patients with increased blinking develop orbicularis oculi muscle spasms.

Methods

Eleven patients who initially manifested increased blinking alone were clinically and neurophysiologically re‐evaluated 5 years later.

Results

By the 5‐year follow‐up assessment, 9 of the 11 patients had developed orbicularis oculi muscle spasms. The blink reflex recovery cycle became abnormal, whereas somatosensory temporal discrimination, which already was abnormal at the first evaluation, did not significantly change.

Conclusions

Our longitudinal study demonstrates that increased blinking may precede blepharospasm and that an abnormal blink reflex recovery cycle reflects the development of orbicularis oculi muscle spasms.
FMEA of manual and automated methods for commissioning a radiotherapy treatment planning system
Authors: Wexler Amy , Gu Bruce , Goddu Sreekrishna , Mutic Maya , Yaddanapudi Sridhar , Olsen Lindsey , Harry Taylor , Noel Camille , Pawlicki Todd , Mutic Sasa , Cai Bin
Published: April 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the level of risk involved in treatment planning system (TPS) commissioning using a manual test procedure, and to compare the associated process‐based risk to that of an automated commissioning process (ACP) by performing an in‐depth failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA).

Methods

The authors collaborated to determine the potential failure modes of the TPS commissioning process using (a) approaches involving manual data measurement, modeling, and validation tests and (b) an automated process utilizing application programming interface (API) scripting, preloaded, and premodeled standard radiation beam data, digital heterogeneous phantom, and an automated commissioning test suite (ACTS). The severity (S), occurrence (O), and detectability (D) were scored for each failure mode and the risk priority numbers (RPN) were derived based on TG‐100 scale. Failure modes were then analyzed and ranked based on RPN. The total number of failure modes, RPN scores and the top 10 failure modes with highest risk were described and cross‐compared between the two approaches. RPN reduction analysis is also presented and used as another quantifiable metric to evaluate the proposed approach.

Results

The FMEA of a MTP resulted in 47 failure modes with an RPNave of 161 and Save of 6.7. The highest risk process of “Measurement Equipment Selection” resulted in an RPNmax of 640. The FMEA of an ACP resulted in 36 failure modes with an RPNave of 73 and Save of 6.7. The highest risk process of “EPID Calibration” resulted in an RPNmax of 576.

Conclusions

An FMEA of treatment planning commissioning tests using automation and standardization via API scripting, preloaded, and pre‐modeled standard beam data, and digital phantoms suggests that errors and risks may be reduced through the use of an ACP.
Material‐dependent crack‐tip enrichment functions in XFEM for modeling interfacial cracks in bimaterials
Authors: Wang Yongxiang , Waisman Haim
Published: April 2017

A novel set of enrichment functions within the framework of the extended finite element method is proposed for linear elastic fracture analysis of interface cracks in bimaterials. The motivation for the new enrichment set stems from the revelation that the accuracy and conditioning of the widely accepted 12‐fold bimaterial enrichment functions significantly deteriorates with the increase in material mismatch. To this end, we propose an 8‐fold material‐dependent enrichment set, derived from the analytical asymptotic displacement field, that well captures the near‐tip oscillating singular fields of interface cracks, including the transition to weak discontinuities of bimaterials.

The performance of the proposed material‐dependent enrichment functions is studied on 2 benchmark examples. Comparisons are made with the 12‐fold bimaterial enrichment as well as the classical 4‐fold homogeneous branch functions, which have also been used for bimaterials. The numerical studies clearly demonstrate the superiority of the new enrichment functions, which yield the most accurate results but with less number of degrees of freedom and significantly improved conditioning than the 12‐fold functions.
A simplified co‐rotational method for quadrilateral shell elements in geometrically nonlinear analysis
Authors: Tang Yi Qun , Zhou Zhi Hua , Chan S. L.
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a simplified co‐rotational formulation for quadrilateral shell elements inheriting the merit of element‐independence from the traditional co‐rotational approach in literature. With the objective of application to nonlinear analysis of civil engineering structures, the authors further simplify the formulation of the geometrical stiffness using the small strain assumption, which is valid in the co‐rotational approach, with the warping effects considered as eccentricities. Compared with the traditional element‐independent co‐rotational method, the projector is neglected both in the tangent stiffness matrix and in the internal force vector for simplicity in formulation. Meanwhile, a quadrilateral flat shell element allowing for drilling rotations is adopted and incorporated into this simplified co‐rotational algorithm for geometrically nonlinear analysis involved with large displacements and large rotations. Several benchmark problems are presented to confirm the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method for practical applications.
Recycled polypropylene/peanut shell powder (RPP/PSP) composites: Property comparison before and after electron beam irradiation
Authors: Fasihah Zaaba Nor , Ismail Hanafi , Jaafar Mariatti
Published: April 2017

This recent study investigates the properties of recycled polypropylene (RPP)/peanut shell powder (PSP) composites under the effect of electron beam (EB) irradiation. RPP/PSP composites were prepared by melt‐mixing and compression molding with 0 to 40 wt% of PSP loading. The fabricated composites were then irradiated using 2.0 MeV EB accelerator at a fixed dose of 40 kGy. The properties of nonirradiated and irradiated composites were compared and characterized by gel content, tensile properties, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and water absorption behavior. The results in tensile strength and tensile modulus of irradiated RPP/PSP composites show an increment while decrement in elongation at break. The gel content analysis result shows an increase upon irradiation indicated that the irradiation induced crosslinking between the components. The thermal stability of irradiated composites was also improved compared to nonirradiated composites. The enhanced interfacial adhesion and crosslinking between components was evidenced by SEM morphology. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3048–3056, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical and thermal properties of epoxy nanocomposites interfacial modified with styrene–butadiene–styrene grafted multi‐walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Wang Xue , Wang Zhe , Wang Lun , Hong Kailiang , Wei Lai , Wang Hongqing , Yuan Zhijuan , Zhao Dongyu , Li Zewen
Published: April 2017

In this article, we prepared styrene‐butadiene‐styrene grafted multi‐walled carbon nanotubes/epoxy (SBS‐g‐MWNTs/EP) nanocomposites by modifying the curing agents of epoxy. Methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA), 2‐Ethyl‐4‐methylimidazole (EMI‐2,4) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were composed of a new type curing agent of epoxy, in which to enhance the compatibility between MHHPA and MWNTs, styrene–butadiene–styrene grafted MWNTs (SBS‐g‐MWNTs) were prepared by a solution method to replace pure MWNTs. Then the SBS‐g‐MWNTs were characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscopic (TEM). The influence of SBS‐g‐MWNTs on the epoxy nanocomposites were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and the tensile, flexural and impact test. The results indicated that the anhydride groups in SBS‐g‐MWNTs could be homogeneously mixed into MHHPA, so that it would be better dispersed in the epoxy matrix. Therefore, the mechanical and thermal properties of the nanocomposites had been improved significantly. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E996–E1004, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
When should active surveillance for prostate cancer stop if no progression is detected?
Authors: de Carvalho Tiago M. , Heijnsdijk Eveline A. M. , de Koning Harry J.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

A significant proportion of screen‐detected men with prostate cancer may be overdiagnosed. Active Surveillance (AS) has emerged as a way to mitigate this problem, by delaying treatment of men, who are at low‐risk until this becomes necessary. However, it is not known after how much time or biopsy rounds should patients stop AS and transition to conservative management (CM), if no progression is detected.

METHODS

We used a microsimulation model with natural history of prostate cancer based on ERSPC and SEER data. We modeled referral to treatment while in AS, based on Johns Hopkins treatment‐free survival data. We projected lifetime costs and effects of AS (and radical treatment, if progression is detected) under different biopsy follow‐up schedules compared to CM, where radical treatment only occurs when men would be clinically diagnosed in absence of screening.

RESULTS

For men with low‐risk disease in younger age groups (55‐65), AS is cost‐effective for up to 7 yearly biopsy rounds. For men older than 65, even one biopsy round results in quality adjusted life years (QALYs) lost, though it may result in QALYs gained for men without previous screening. For men with intermediate‐risk disease AS is cost‐effective even for men in 65‐75 age group.

CONCLUSIONS

The benefit of AS when compared to CM is strongly dependent on life expectancy and disease risk. Clinicians should take this into account when selecting men to AS, deciding on biopsy frequency and when to stop AS surveillance rounds and transition to CM.
A Food Systems Perspective for Food and Nutrition Security beyond the Post‐2015 Development Agenda
Authors: Kopainsky Birgit , Tribaldos Theresa , Ledermann Samuel T.
Published: April 2017

This paper proposes a framework for dealing with the complexity of food systems for guiding implementation, monitoring and evaluation of Sustainable Development Goal number 2 ‘End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture’. The framework combines a food systems approach with systems analysis and modelling techniques and helps identifying areas in need of further clarification for an effective post‐2015 development agenda. Furthermore, the paper explains how the proposed framework can be used in developing theory of transformations and in formulating indicators that control for dynamic complexity. The paper also emphasizes the importance of building comprehensive monitoring systems for this purpose. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.