bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemokine receptor‐7 (CCR7) deficiency leads to delayed development of joint damage and functional deficits in a murine model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Sambamurthy Nisha , Nguyen Vu , Smalley Ryan , Xiao Rui , Hankenson Kurt , Gan Justin , Miller Rachel E. , Malfait Anne‐Marie , Dodge George R. , Scanzello Carla R.
Published: August 2017

Elevated chemokine receptor Ccr7 is observed in knee osteoarthritis (OA) and associated with severity of symptoms. In this study, we confirmed that CCR7 protein expression is elevated in synovial tissue from OA patients by immunohistochemical staining. We then investigated whether Ccr7 deficiency impacted structural and functional joint degeneration utilizing a murine model of OA. OA‐like disease was induced in male C57BL/6 and Ccr7‐deficient (Ccr7−/−) mice by destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM). Functional deficits were measured by computer integrated monitoring of spontaneous activity every 4 weeks after DMM surgery up 16 weeks. Joint degeneration was evaluated at 6 and 19 weeks post‐surgery by histopathology, and subchondral bone changes analyzed by microCT. Results showed reduction in locomotor activities in DMM‐operated C57BL/6 mice by 8 weeks, while activity decreases in Ccr7−/− mice were delayed until 16 weeks. Histopathologic evaluation showed minimal protection from early cartilage degeneration (p = 0.06) and osteophytosis (p = 0.04) in Ccr7−/− mice 6 weeks post‐DMM compared to C57BL/6 controls, but not at 19 weeks. However, subchondral bone mineral density (p = 0.03) and histologic sclerosis (p = 0.02) increased in response to surgery in C57BL/6 mice at 6 weeks, while Ccr7−/− mice were protected from these changes. Our results are the first to demonstrate a role for Ccr7 in early development of functional deficits and subchondral bone changes in the DMM model. Understanding the mechanism of Ccr7 receptor signaling in the initiation of joint pathology and disability will inform the development of innovative therapies to slow symptomatic OA development after injury. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. J Orthop Res 36:864–875, 2018.
Improved union and bone strength in a mouse model of NF1 pseudarthrosis treated with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 and zoledronic acid
Authors: Deo Nikita , Cheng Tegan L. , Mikulec Kathy , Peacock Lauren , Little David G. , Schindeler Aaron
Published: August 2017

Tibial pseudarthrosis associated with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an orthopedic condition with consistently poor clinical outcomes. Using a murine model that features localized double inactivation of the Nf1 gene in an experimental tibial fracture, we tested the effects of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2) and/or the bisphosphonate zoledronic acid (ZA). Tibiae were harvested at 3 weeks for analysis, at which time there was negligible healing in un‐treated control fractures (7% union). In contrast, rhBMP‐2 and rhBMP‐2/ZA groups showed significantly greater union (87% and 93%, p < 0.01 for both). Treatment with rhBMP‐2 led to a 12‐fold increase in callus bone volume and this was further increased in the rhBMP‐2/ZA group. Mechanical testing of the healed rhBMP‐2 and rhBMP‐2/ZA fractures showed that the latter group had significantly higher mechanical strength and was restored to that of the un‐fractured contralateral leg. Co‐treatment with rhBMP‐2/ZA also reduced fibrous tissue infiltration at the fracture site compared to rhBMP alone (p = 0.068). These data support the future clinical investigation of this combination of anabolic and anti‐resorptive agents for the treatment of NF1 pseudarthrosis. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:930–936, 2018.
Analysis and design of resonance Raman reporter molecules by density functional theory
Authors: Mu Xijiao , Guo Yonghong , Li Yulong , Wang Zhong , Li Yuee , Xu Shuhong
Published: August 2017

Resonance Raman (RR) probe is a new biomarker technology, which has the characteristics of low detection limit and being capable of multiple detection. In this paper, through analyzing the UV–Vis spectra, non‐resonant and pre‐resonant Raman spectra of Azobenzene‐based RR probe (Am‐CN Azo‐OH) and Azobenzene using density functional theory (DFT), we try to explore common rules for designing new RR probes. First, the excitation wavelength is a prerequisite for intense enhancement which should match the absorption spectrum of RR probe; second, each vibration mode presents quite different resonance enhancement; finally, the highest resonance enhancement is derived from the vibration of the atomic groups around the chromophore, which coincides with the nature transition orbit (NTO) theory of the strongest excited state of the molecule. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural changes in polyaniline near the middle oxidation peak studied by in situ Raman spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Morávková Zuzana , Dmitrieva Evgenia
Published: August 2017

The transitions near the middle oxidation peak of polyaniline were studied by resonance Raman spectroelectrochemistry. Localization of polarons was observed in the potential region between first and middle oxidation peaks and connected with the coupling of the polarons into pairs – specific Raman bands were connected with separated polarons, pairs of polarons, and emeraldine states in general. In addition, a connection of the middle oxidation peak in the cyclic voltammetry of polyaniline with hydroquinone/benzoquinone defect redox transition was confirmed. These findings allow more precise determination of oxidation, protonation, and degradation level of polyaniline by resonance Raman spectroscopy. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Viability of Raman microscopy to identify micro‐residues related to tool‐use and modern contaminants on prehistoric stone artefacts
Authors: Bordes Luc , Prinsloo Linda C. , Fullagar Richard , Sutikna Thomas , Hayes Elspeth , Jatmiko  , Wahyu Saptomo E. , Tocheri Matthew W. , Roberts Richard G.
Published: August 2017

Analyses of ancient micro‐residues and usewear preserved on stone artefacts can potentially provide detailed information about how prehistoric humans used the artefacts to process materials such as food, pigments and/or adhesives. However, ancient micro‐residues are likely degraded, and there are multiple potential sources of contamination, such as contact with sediments, groundwater, recent handling, storage materials or laboratory conditions, any of which can inhibit reliable identification of micro‐residues and other traces of prehistoric use.

In this pilot study, five stone tools from the archaeological site of Liang Bua (Flores, Indonesia) were used to evaluate the viability of Raman spectroscopy to identity ancient micro‐residues preserved on stone artefact surfaces that are due specifically to prehistoric use as opposed to some form of ancient or modern source of contamination.

Inorganic and organic deposits that occur commonly in the cave environment, including iron oxide, manganese oxide and biofilms, were identified in both the sediment and on the artefacts. Protein and saturated fatty acid micro‐residues were identified on edges of all artefacts and may partially originate from modern handling. Proteins, plant fibres and other micro‐residues associated with calcium nitrate are possibly archaeologically significant. Detection of plant fibres and starch grains may indicate either modern contamination or prehistoric contact with plant material that was transferred incidentally or during tool manufacture and/or tool use.

These results demonstrate the viability of Raman microscopy to screen, at an early stage of archaeological residue analysis, for modern contaminants and micro‐residues related to tool manufacture and/or tool use. This approach serves as a base for planning strategies and analytical protocols for future work that targets larger samples of artefacts, integrates Raman microscopy with GC–MS/LC–MS and includes more comprehensive studies of usewear. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Authentication of adulterated edible oil using coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy
Authors: Park Chang Woo , Lee Ingu , Kwon Seong‐Hoon , Lee Kyu‐Sup , Jo Cheol , Ko Do‐Kyeong
Published: August 2017

A comparative analysis on five edible oils with the same chemical composition but different composition ratios was performed by using coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy in the wavenumber 2400–3200 cm−1 corresponding to C─H vibration band. Intensity ratio (I═C ─ H/IC ─ H) in C─H stretching region was obtained according to the mixing ratio of the two types of edible oil, and the fitting curves were obtained from the fact that the intensity ratio is proportional to the square of
where
is the expectation value of k bonds of the edible oil.
and
of the edible oils obtained from the fitting curves were well matched with the referred values. And finally, we showed that the coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering spectroscopy can be used as a method of authentication of adulterated edible oil by demonstrating a method to determine the type and the amount of unknown mixed oil.
ERAS: Improving outcome in the cachectic HPB patient
Authors: van Dijk David P.J. , van Woerden Victor , Cakir Hamit , den Dulk Marcel , Olde Damink Steven W.M. , Dejong Cornelis H.C.
Published: August 2017

The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) program has reduced postoperative morbidity and duration of hospital stay but not mortality in patients undergoing hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery. Many HPB patients suffer from cancer cachexia, a syndrome of severe weight and muscle loss. This may affect outcomes of HPB surgery even within an ERAS program. A tailored ERAS approach may be essential in further improving outcome in this vulnerable patient category.
Prognostic significance of tumor length in patients receiving esophagectomy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Hollis Alexander C. , Quinn Lauren M. , Hodson James , Evans Emily , Plowright James , Begum Ruksana , Mitchell Harriet , Hallissey Mike T. , Whiting John L. , Griffiths Ewen A.
Published: August 2017

Aims

We investigated the prognostic value of tumor length measurements acquired both from pre‐operative imaging and post‐operative pathology in esophageal cancer.

Methods

Tumor lengths were examined retrospectively for 389 esophagectomy patients with respect to Endoscopy, EUS (Endoscopic Ultrasound), CT and PET‐CT, and pathology. Correlations between the measurements on the different approaches were assessed, and associations between tumor length and survival were analyzed.

Results

Only the tumor lengths assessed on pathology were found to be significantly associated with overall (P = 0.001) and recurrence free (P < 0.001) survival on univariable analysis. The median overall survival was 47.1 months in those patients with tumor lengths <3.0 cm, falling to 19.6 and 18.0 months in those with 3.0‐4.4 and 4.5+ cm tumors, respectively, demonstrating a reduction in patient survival at a tumor length of around 3 cm. Tumor length on pathology was significantly correlated with tumor differentiation and both T‐ and N‐categories. After accounting for these factors, tumor length on pathology was a significant independent predictor of recurrence‐free (P = 0.016), but not overall (P = 0.128) survival.

Conclusions

Tumor lengths on pathology were found to be the most predictive of patient outcome. However, after accounting for other tumor‐related factors, tumor length only resulted in a marginal improvement in predictive accuracy.
Antitumor evaluation and multiple analysis on different extracted fractions of the root of Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight
Authors: Wang Xin‐jie , Li Zhen‐lin , Lv Xu‐hui , Zuo Qi‐yan , Zhao Yan‐min , Ding Yong‐fang , Pu She‐ban , Qian Shi‐hui , Peng Yun‐ru
Published: August 2017

The root of Cynanchum auriculatum (C. auriculatum) Royle ex Wight has been shown to possess various pharmacological effects and has recently attracted much attention with respect to its potential role in antitumor activity. The C‐21 steroidal glycosides are commonly accepted as the major active ingredients of C. auriculatum. In this study, the antitumor abilities of different extracted fractions of the root bark and the root tuber of C. auriculatum were investigated by using a 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay in human cancer cell lines HepG2 and SMMC‐7721. The results showed that the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions of the root tuber suppressed tumor cell growth strongly. To identify and characterize the chemical constituents of different active fractions, an ultra high performance liquid chromatography with triple‐quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry method was developed for the simultaneous quantitation of eight C‐21 steroidal glycosides. The analysis revealed that the C‐21 steroidal glycosides were concentrated in the chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions, and the total contents of different fractions in the root tuber were significantly higher than those of corresponding ones in the root bark. Furthermore, the C‐21 steroidal glycosides based on different types of aglucones were prone in different medicinal parts of C. auriculatum.
Fish hydroacoustic survey standardization: A step forward based on comparisons of methods and systems from vertical surveys of a large deep lake
Authors: Draštík Vladislav , Godlewska Malgorzata , Balk Helge , Clabburn Peter , Kubečka Jan , Morrissey Emma , Hateley Jon , Winfield Ian J. , Mrkvička Tomáš , Guillard Jean
Published: August 2017

Hydroacoustic methods are routinely used for fish population assessment and monitoring in lakes and reservoirs around the world and are particularly embedded in European and North American lake management. However, the comparability of hydroacoustic results can be difficult to assess due to the large number of variables (sound frequency, sound pulse duration, system manufacturer, analysis method, etc.) that can influence acoustic estimates. This study investigates the effect of variations in analysis method and hydroacoustic system on commonly produced outputs. Volume backscattering strength (Sv), mean target strength (TS), fish abundance, and biomass were estimated using two analysis methods (echo integration and track‐counting) using data recorded from a large, deep lake (Windermere, UK) by four vertically oriented split‐beam systems operating at three sound frequencies (120 kHz, 200 kHz, and 400 kHz). The two analysis methods used produced similar estimates of fish abundance and fish biomass. We therefore concluded that echo integration and track‐counting can be robustly used and outputs justifiably compared under the conditions of the Windermere surveys. In addition, we compared mean Sv, mean TS, fish abundance, and biomass estimates across the four hydroacoustic systems. The only significant result was for abundance estimates, however, the system made a small contribution to the overall variability. All four systems provided similar results for the other metrics, demonstrating that independent hydroacoustic surveys operating within the European Standard can make a major contribution to the assessment and monitoring of fish populations in deep lakes and reservoirs.
Efficient Integrated Graphene Photonics in the Visible and Near‐IR
Authors: Chang PoHan , Lin Charles , Helmy Amr. S.
Published: August 2017

Graphene photonics has emerged as a promising platform for providing desirable optical functionality. However, graphene's monolayer‐scale thickness fundamentally restricts the available light matter interaction, posing a critical design challenge for integrated devices, particularly in wavelength regimes where graphene plasmonics is untenable. While several plasmonic designs have been proposed to enhance graphene light interaction in these regimes, they suffer from substantial insertion loss due to metal absorption. Here we report a non‐resonant metamaterial‐based waveguide platform to overcome the design bottleneck associated with graphene device. Such metamaterial structure enables low insertion loss even though metal is being utilized. By examining waveguide dispersion characteristics via closed‐form analysis, it is demonstrated that the metamaterial approach can provide optimized optical field that overlaps with the graphene monolayer. This enables graphene‐based integrated components with superior optical performance. Specifically, the metamaterial‐assisted graphene modulator can provide 5‐fold improvement in extinction ratio compared to Si nanowire, while reducing insertion loss by one order magnitude compared to plasmonic structures. Such a waveguide configuration thus allows one to maximize the optical potential that graphene holds in the telecom and visible regimes.
Stereocomplex‐ and Homo‐Crystallization and Phase‐Transition Behavior of Relatively High‐Molecular‐Weight Linear One‐ and Two‐Armed and Star‐Shaped Four‐Armed Poly(l‐lactide)/Poly(d‐lactide) Blends
Authors: Tsuji Hideto , Sakamoto Yuzuru , Arakawa Yuki
Published: August 2017

Relatively high‐molecular‐weight linear one‐ and two‐armed and star‐shaped four‐armed poly(l‐lactide) and poly(d‐lactide) are synthesized and the multiplicate effects of arm‐number (branching architecture, coinitiator moiety), crystallization temperature (Tc), and number‐average molecular weight (Mn) on stereocomplex (SC)‐ and homo‐crystallization and phase‐transition behavior are investigated. For nonisothermal and isothermal crystallization, in addition to SC crystallites, homo‐crystallites are formed in the blends with higher Mn values, irrespective of arm number. For isothermal crystallization, the transition Tc ranges below which in addition to SC crystallites, homo‐crystallites are formed depended on Mn per one arm‐determining melting temperature or thickness of homo‐crystallites. The transition Mn ranges above which in addition to SC crystallites, homo‐crystallites are formed are not affected by arm number. The high molecular weight disturbs the change of crystalline growth mechanism of one‐ and two‐armed blends, whereas the branching architecture inhibits the change of crystalline growth mechanism of four‐armed blends.
Phosphorylation‐dependent signaling controls degradation of DNA mismatch repair protein PMS2
Authors: Hinrichsen Inga , Weßbecher Isabel M. , Huhn Meik , Passmann Sandra , Zeuzem Stefan , Plotz Guido , Biondi Ricardo M. , Brieger Angela
Published: August 2017

MutLα, a heterodimer consisting of MLH1 and PMS2, plays an important role in DNA mismatch repair and has been shown to be additionally involved in several other important cellular mechanisms. Previous work indicated that AKT could modulate PMS2 stability by phosphorylation. Still, the mechanisms of regulation of MutLα remain unclear. The stability of MutLα subunits was investigated by transiently overexpression of wild type and mutant forms of MLH1 and PMS2 using immunoblotting for measuring the protein levels after treatment. We found that treatment with the cell‐permeable serine/threonine phosphatase inhibitor, Calyculin, leads to degradation of PMS2 when MLH1 or its C‐terminal domain is missing or if amino acids of MLH1 essential for PMS2 interaction are mutated. In addition, we discovered that the C‐terminal tail of PMS2 is relevant for this Calyculin‐dependent degradation. A direct involvement of AKT, which was previously described to be responsible for PMS2 degradation, could not be detected. The multi‐kinase inhibitor Sorafenib, in contrast, was able to avoid the degradation of PMS2 which postulates that cellular phosphorylation is involved in this process. Together, we show that pharmacologically induced phosphorylation by Calyculin can induce the selective proteasome‐dependent degradation of PMS2 but not of MLH1 and that the PMS2 degradation could be blocked by Sorafenib treatment. Curiously, the C‐terminal Lynch Syndrome‐variants MLH1L749P and MLH1Y750X make PMS2 prone to Calyculin induced degradation. Therefore, we conclude that the specific degradation of PMS2 may represent a new mechanism to regulate MutLα.
Upregulation of microRNA‐135b and microRNA‐182 promotes chemoresistance of colorectal cancer by targeting ST6GALNAC2 via PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Liu Bing , Liu Yanfeng , Zhao Lifen , Pan Yue , Shan Yujia , Li Yang , Jia Li
Published: August 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly involved in the development of drug resistance, including 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) resistance in colorectal cancer (CRC). Aberrant sialylation is correlated with human CRC. The study was to explore whether miR‐135b and miR‐182 modulated 5‐FU chemoresistance of CRC by targeting ST6GALNAC2 via PI3K/AKT pathway. MiR‐135b and miR‐182 were found to be up‐regulated in CRC tissues and 5‐FU resistant CRC cell lines. Forced miR‐135b and miR‐182 expression also affected ST6GALNAC2 levels. Using reporter‐gene assay, ST6GALNAC2 was identified as direct target of miR‐135b and miR‐182, while ST6GALNAC2 expression exhibited patterns opposite to that of miR‐135b and miR‐182 in CRC samples and cell lines. Interestingly, up‐regulation of miR‐135b or miR‐182 increased drug resistance and proliferation, but decreased apoptosis in 5‐FU resistant CRC cell lines. Suppression of these miRNAs implicated an inverse function, while altered expression of ST6GALNAC2 mediated CRC progression upon transfection with miR‐135b/‐182 mimic or inhibitor. Furthermore, miR‐135b and miR‐182 were clarified to regulate the activity of phosphoinositide‐3 kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway. Inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway enhanced the chemosensitivity to 5‐FU in HCT‐8/5‐FU and LoVo/5‐FU. Taken together, miR‐135b and miR‐182 may reverse the resistance to 5‐FU in CRC cells by targeting ST6GALNAC2 via PI3K/AKT pathway, which render potential chemotherapy targets for the treatment of CRC.
Pseudo‐spherical normal Darboux images of curves on a lightlike surface
Authors: Wang Yongqiao , Pei Donghe , Cui Xiupeng
Published: August 2017

We introduce the notions of the pseudospherical normal Darboux images for the curve on a lightlike surface in Minkowski 3‐space and study these Darboux images by using technics of the singularity theory. Furthermore, we give a relation between these Darboux images and Darboux frame from the viewpoint of Legendrian dualities.
Some new properties of asynchronous algorithms of theta scheme combined with finite elements methods for an evolutionary implicit 2‐sided obstacle problem
Authors: Boulaaras Salah
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we give some new properties of the presented asynchronous algorithms of theta scheme combined with finite elements methods (App. Math. Comp., 217 (2011), 6443‐6450) for an evolutionary implicit 2‐sided obstacle problem to prove the existence and uniqueness of the discrete solution. Furthermore, an error estimate on the uniform norm is given.
A remark on the Navier‐Stokes equations with the Coriolis force
Authors: Zhao Hengjun , Wang Yinxia
Published: August 2017

In this short paper, the initial value problem for the Navier‐Stokes equations with the Coriolis force is investigated. The Coriolis force appears in almost all of the models of meteorology and geophysics dealing with large‐scale phenomena. We prove that existence of uniform global large solutions to the Navier‐Stokes equations with the Coriolis force for a class of special initial data. The results obtained in this paper are different from the previous 2 types of results.
Serotonin‐transporter promoter polymorphism modulates the ability to control food intake: Effect on total weight loss
Authors: Bonnet Gemma , Gómez‐Abellán Purificación , Vera Beatriz , Sánchez‐Romera Juan Francisco , Hernández‐Martínez Antonio M. , Sookoian Silvia , Pirola Carlos Jose , Garaulet Marta
Published: August 2017

Scope

The biggest challenge for losing weight is the ability to control the amount of food eaten; the tendency to overeat is called disinhibition. Our aims were to determine whether (a) the SLC6A4‐promoter variant (5‐HTTLPR) relates to disinhibition; (b) this association could affect total weight‐loss during a behavioral/dietary treatment for obesity.

Methods and results

A total of 2961 subjects attended voluntarily five weight‐loss clinics; a subsample (n = 624) was recruited for SLC6A4 genotyping. Total weight‐loss, emotional‐eating‐score and disinhibition‐score were examined. We observed that: (a) the reduced ability to control food intake (disinhibition) is implicated in the impairment to lose weight; (b) SLC6A4‐promoter variant is implicated in disinhibition. S carriers (low‐expressing) of the SLC6A4‐promoter variant had a lower inhibition capacity and showed more failure (1.6 times) to control the amount of food eaten than LL (p < 0.05); other factors such as eating while bored, overeating after work at night, or craving for specific foods were associated to the SLC6A4 genotype (p < 0.05); (c) The combination of disinhibition (high disinhibition) and genetics (S carrier) had a higher impact on total weight loss than each factor separately.

Conclusions

SLC6A4‐promoter variant is associated with the ability to control food intake and interacts with emotional eating to modulate total weight loss.
EKG‐based detection of deep brain stimulation in fMRI studies
Authors: Fiveland Eric , Madhavan Radhika , Prusik Julia , Linton Renee , Dimarzio Marisa , Ashe Jeffrey , Pilitsis Julie , Hancu Ileana
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To assess the impact of synchronization errors between the assumed functional MRI paradigm timing and the deep brain stimulation (DBS) on/off cycling using a custom electrocardiogram‐based triggering system

Methods

A detector for measuring and predicting the on/off state of cycling deep brain stimulation was developed and tested in six patients in office visits. Three‐electrode electrocardiogram measurements, amplified by a commercial bio‐amplifier, were used as input for a custom electronics box (e‐box). The e‐box transformed the deep brain stimulation waveforms into transistor‐transistor logic pulses, recorded their timing, and propagated it in time. The e‐box was used to trigger task‐based deep brain stimulation functional MRI scans in 5 additional subjects; the impact of timing accuracy on t‐test values was investigated in a simulation study using the functional MRI data.

Results

Following locking to each patient's individual waveform, the e‐box was shown to predict stimulation onset with an average absolute error of 112 ± 148 ms, 30 min after disconnecting from the patients. The subsecond accuracy of the e‐box in predicting timing onset is more than adequate for our slow varying, 30‐/30‐s on/off stimulation paradigm. Conversely, the experimental deep brain stimulation onset prediction accuracy in the absence of the e‐box, which could be off by as much as 4 to 6 s, could significantly decrease activation strength.

Conclusions

Using this detector, stimulation can be accurately synchronized to functional MRI acquisitions, without adding any additional hardware in the MRI environment. Magn Reson Med 79:2432–2439, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Composite‐grid multigrid for diffusion on the sphere
Authors: Adler James H. , Lashuk Ilya , MacLachlan Scott P.
Published: August 2017

Recently, there has been much interest in the solution of differential equations on surfaces and manifolds, driven by many applications whose dynamics take place on such domains. Although increasingly powerful algorithms have been developed in this field, many straightforward questions remain, particularly in the area of coupling advanced discretizations with efficient linear solvers. In this paper, we develop a structured refinement algorithm for octahedral triangulations of the surface of the sphere. We explain the composite‐grid finite‐element discretization of the Laplace–Beltrami operator on such triangulations and extend the fast adaptive composite‐grid scheme to provide an efficient solution of the resulting linear system. Supporting numerical examples are presented, including the recovery of second‐order accuracy in the case of a nonsmooth solution.
Effect of clay and clay/essential oil in packaging films
Authors: Torin Rondes Ferreira da Silva , Camani Paulo Henrique , da Silva Larissa Nunes , Sato Juliana Alves Pereira , Ferreira Fabio Furlan , Rosa Derval dos Santos
Published: August 2017

The influence of the different contents of organo‐modified montmorillonite clay (1 and 3%wt.) and two essential oils (Carvacrol and Eugenol ‐ 2 and 6%wt.) when incorporated into low‐density polyethylene films (LDPE) was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This study shows the potential of montmorillonite clay as a carrier of carvacrol and eugenol essential oils, ClayC and ClayE, respectively, into LDPE nanocomposites. To prepare the nanocomposites, oils and clay hybrid were mixed and added to polyethylene using a homogenizer. The clay increased the thermal stability of the essential oils. PE/ClayC and PE/ClayE nanocomposites showed increased crystallinity as a function of the amount of hybrid; this was more significant for the PE/ClayC system. Increased crystallinity suggests that clay acts as nucleating agent, due its intercalated/exfoliated configuration. The results contribute to obtaining a more efficient nanocomposite system for subsequent applications, such as active packaging. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4034–4040, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and healing properties of poly(arylether sulfone)–poly(alkylthioether) multiblock copolymers containing disulfide bonds
Authors: Akiyama Takayoshi , Ushio Akira , Itoh Yoshitaka , Kawaguchi Yuya , Matsumoto Kazuya , Jikei Mitsutoshi
Published: August 2017

Thermoplastic elastomers composed of soft and hard segments are important elastic and processable synthetic polymers. The microphase‐separated soft domains show low glass transition temperature and possess sufficient chain mobility at room temperature. In this study, we report the synthesis and healing properties of multiblock copolymers containing disulfide bonds as dynamic covalent bonds. The multiblock copolymers composed of poly(arylether sulfone) and poly(alkylthioether) segments were synthesized by oxidative coupling polymerization of the corresponding thiol‐terminated oligomers. Atomic force microscopy phase images, differential scanning calorimetry, and dynamic mechanical analysis curves indicated the microphase‐separated morphology of the multiblock copolymer. Self‐healing properties of the polymer were evaluated by changes in the elongation at break of the cut/adhered samples. The elongation recovery increased with UV irradiation time, and the multiblock copolymer showed a 93% recovery after UV irradiation for 5 h. The healing efficiency induced by UV irradiation, determined by subtracting the recovery without UV irradiation, was calculated to be 51%. According to the UV spectra and solubility changes after UV irradiation, the main healing factor in this study was the crosslinking reactions caused by thiyl radicals generated from UV irradiation instead of disulfide exchange reactions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3545–3553
Nanofibrous polysulfone/TiO2 nanocomposites: Surface properties and their relation with E. coli adhesion
Authors: Teno Jorge , González‐Gaitano Gustavo , González‐Benito Javier
Published: August 2017

Solution blow spinning, SBS, was used to prepare fibrous films of thermoplastic nanocomposites with potential antibacterial properties based on polysulfone, PSF, filled with well dispersed TiO2 nanoparticles. The PSF/TiO2 nanocomposites were produced with different nanoparticles content up to 10% by weight. A wide characterization was carried out focusing on the morphology at the nanoscale, roughness, contact angles, and surface free energy. Cell adhesion was studied by inspection by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A uniform dispersion of the nanofiller was achieved, with the nanoparticles evenly embedded in the polymer along the fibers when they were created during the blow spinning process. TiO2 content influenced the topography of the films, most likely due to a direct effect on the solvent evaporation rate. The results obtained pointed out that an increase of the surface hydrophobicity as a result of the increased roughness induced by the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles was the main contribution to the reduction of DH5α Escherichia coli cells adhesion. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 1575–1584
The All‐Pay Auction with Nonmonotonic Payoff
Authors: Chowdhury Subhasish M.
Published: August 2017

I model innovation contests as an all‐pay auction in which it is possible not to achieve successful innovation despite costly R&D investments, and as a result, there is no winner. In such a case, the winning payoff turns out to be nonmonotonic in own bid. I derive the sufficient conditions for the existence of pure strategy equilibria, and fully characterize the nondegenerate mixed strategy equilibrium. In the mixed strategy equilibrium, the support of the low‐value bidder is not continuous, and both the high‐value and the low‐value bidders place an atom in the (distinct) lower bound of their respective support. Under symmetric valuation, both bidders place an atom at zero. These results can explain why one does not observe very low quality innovation in real life, or why even symmetric firms may stay out of an innovation contest.
Long‐ and short‐term serviceability behavior of reinforced concrete beams: Mechanics models for deflections and crack widths
Authors: Visintin Phillip , Sturm Alexander B. , Oehlers Deric J.
Published: August 2017

Analysis and design of reinforced concrete (RC) flexural members at the serviceability limit state is complicated by the localized bond slip or partial interaction (PI) between tensile reinforcement and the surrounding concrete. Localized slip is responsible for crack formation, crack widening, and tension stiffening and is further complicated by the time‐dependent nature of concrete, which results in reduced tension stiffening and widening of cracks. Analysis techniques commonly applied in design are typically formulated on the assumption of full interaction between the reinforcement and the surrounding concrete. Hence, they do not simulate the behaviors observed in practice, but rather they correlate analytical predictions with experimental observations through the use of empiricisms, such as effective flexural rigidities and statistically derived expressions for crack widths. In this paper, it is shown how PI theory can be directly incorporated into elastic analysis procedures to develop simple expressions for flexural rigidities and crack widths under both instantaneous and sustained loading. The proposed approach should simplify not only the design process but also the development of design guidelines and material models, as it provides a simple rational method for investigating the time‐dependent flexural behavior of RC members.
The Influence of the Valence Electron Concentration on the Structural Variation of the Laves Phases MgNi2–xGex
Authors: Siggelkow Lisa , Hlukhyy Viktor , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: August 2017

The influence of the partial substitution of Ni atoms by the similarly sized but electron‐richer Ge atoms with a similar electronegativity in the binary Laves phase MgNi2 is investigated. A small degree of substitution in MgNi2–xGex (x = 0.1) leads to the change of the hexagonal MgNi2‐type structure (C36) to the cubic C15 type, whereas higher amounts of Ge lead to the formation of the two new Laves phases Mg2Ni3Ge and MgNi1.30(5)Ge0.70, which were synthesized by the direct reaction of the elements in alumina and niobium crucibles using an induction furnace. The crystal structures of the two phases were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Mg2Ni3Ge (hR18‐MgNi2–xGex, x = 0.5) crystallizes in the Y2Rh3Ge‐type structure, which is an ordered variant of the cubic Laves phase MgCu2: space group R3m, a = 5.0300(7), c = 11.330(2) Å. hP36‐MgNi2–xGex with x = 0.70(6) crystallizes as a superstructure of the hexagonal Laves phase MgZn2: space group P63/mcm, a = 8.6946(2), c = 7.8127(3) Å. MgNi1.3Ge0.7 represents a new structure type. Gradual substitution of Ni by Ge in the Laves phase MgNi2 corresponds to an increase in the valence electron concentration (VEC) in the ternary phase system and leads to the series MgCu2 (C15 type), hR18‐Mg2Ni3Ge (superstructure of MgCu2 type), and hP36‐MgNi1.3Ge0.7 (superstructure of MgZn2 type). The electronic structures are discussed based on band structure calculations, and the results are compared to the pristine Laves phase MgNi2, MgCu2, and MgZn2 with VEC = 2/3, 4/3 and 2, respectively.
Prevalence of posttraumatic arthritis and the association with outcome measures following distal radius fractures in non-osteoporotic patients: a systematic review
Authors: Lameijer C. M. , ten Duis H. J. , Dusseldorp I. van , Dijkstra P. U. , van der Sluis C. K.
Published: August 2017

Introduction

The objective of this systematic review was to analyze (1) prevalence of radiological posttraumatic arthritis (PA), (2) associations of PA with outcome measures and (3) predictors of PA following distal radius fractures in non-osteoporotic patients.

Materials and methods

Nineteen studies were included (10 open source data).

Results

In total, 733 patients were described with a weighted mean age of 37 years (range 25–54) at the time of the injury. Follow-up ranged from 13 months to 38 years. Overall prevalence of PA was 50% and 37% in the open source data. Radial deviation was significantly worse in patients with PA (N = 49, mean 14°, SD 6° versus N = 55, mean 17°, SD 6°, p = 0.037). No analysis could be performed regarding patient reported outcome measures, because of limited data. Articular incongruence was a significant predictor for PA.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of PA was found in non-osteoporotic patients following a distal radius fracture. PA following a distal radial fracture was associated with a limited radial deviation and flexion, but not with grip strength. Articular incongruence predicted PA. Patient reported outcome measures should be investigated more thoroughly to be able to understand the value of using these instruments in interpreting outcome in follow-up of non-osteoporotic patients following a distal radius fracture.

Level of evidence

Level of evidence 3 (Phillips et al. Levels of Evidence—Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine, 1)
Comprehensive Quantitation Using Two Stable Isotopically Labeled Species and Direct Detection of N‐Acyl Moiety of Sphingomyelin
Authors: Hama Kotaro , Fujiwara Yuko , Tabata Hidetsugu , Takahashi Hideyo , Yokoyama Kazuaki
Published: August 2017

Sphingomyelin (ceramide‐phosphocholine, CerPCho) is a common sphingolipid in mammalian cells and is composed of phosphorylcholine and ceramide as polar and hydrophobic components, respectively. In this study, a qualitative liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC–ESI–MS/MS/MS) analysis is proposed in which CerPCho structures were assigned based on product ion spectra corresponding to sphingosylphosphorylcholine and N‐acyl moieties. From MS/MS/MS analysis of CerPCho, we observed product ion spectra of the N‐acyl fatty acids as [RCO2]− ions as well as sphingosylphosphorylcholine. A calibration curve for CerPCho was constructed using two stable isotopically labeled CerPCho species and then used to quantify the CerPCho species in HeLa cells as a proof‐of‐principle study. The present study proposes an accurate method for quantifying and assigning structures to each CerPCho species in crude biologic samples by LC–ESI–MS/MS/MS analysis.
Functional Characteristics of Oleogel Prepared from Sunflower Oil with β‐Sitosterol and Stearic Acid
Authors: Yang Shu , Li Guode , Saleh Ahmed S. M. , Yang Hongli , Wang Na , Wang Peng , Yue Xiqing , Xiao Zhigang
Published: August 2017

β‐Sitosterol (Sit) and stearic acid (SA) were combined at varying ratios (w/w) and added to sunflower oil (SFO) at the concentration of 20 g/100 g oil for preparing edible fat‐like oleogel. The oleogel was characterized using an optical microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), differential scanning calorimeter, and texture analyzer. The oil‐binding capacity, melting temperature, and firmness of the oleogel increased with the increase in the amount of SA in the gelator combination (Sit:SA, w/w). The microscopic analysis showed that the gel network formed based on the crystallization and self‐organization of gelator molecules, and both gelators showed an independent crystalline behavior in the oleogel. In addition, the FTIR spectra showed that the gel network formed via physical entanglements and was stabilized by non‐covalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding. Furthermore, XRD diffraction patterns indicated high lateral packing of molecular layers in oleogel prepared with the Sit and SA combination compared with oleogel prepared with a single gelator. On the other hand, for studying the effect of varying concentrations of gelator combinations, the Sit3:SA2 (w/w) combination was added to SFO at concentrations of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 g/100 g oil. Specific characteristics such as the oil‐binding capacity and firmness of the oleogel improved as the concentration of the gelator combination (Sit3:SA2) increased from 10 up to 30 g/100 g oil. Therefore, it can be concluded that the saturated fat alternative oleogel can be prepared from SFO with a specific Sit and SA combination ratio and concentration.
Race and the Dynamics of Men's Mobility into Management from Working Class Jobs
Authors: Wilson George , Lagae Bryan
Published: August 2017

Within the context of the “particularistic mobility thesis” we examine African American/White differences in the incidence, determinants and timing of mobility into management at a refined level, namely, when groups share similar “rank and file” and “elite blue collar” working class jobs. Findings from a Panel Study of Income Dynamics sample of men support theory and indicate that from both job categories, African Americans, relative to Whites, have lower rates of mobility, reach management through a route that is relatively formal and structured by a traditional range of stratification-based causal factors and take longer to reach management. Further, as predicted by theory, racial disadvantage experienced by African Americans are greater among those tracked from rank and file than elite blue collar jobs. Discussed are implications of the findings for understanding African American disadvantage in the American labor market on both an intra-and inter-generational basis.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Delayed-release Dimethyl Fumarate in Black, Hispanic, and Asian Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: Post Hoc Integrated Analysis of DEFINE and CONFIRM
Authors: Fox Robert J. , Gold Ralf , Phillips J. Theodore , Okwuokenye Macaulay , Zhang Annie , Marantz Jing L.
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Clinical course and treatment response may vary according to race/ethnicity in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Delayed-release dimethyl fumarate (DMF; also known as gastro-resistant DMF) demonstrated significant efficacy and a favorable benefit–risk profile in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) patients in the 2-year phase III DEFINE/CONFIRM studies.

Methods

In this post hoc analysis of integrated data from DEFINE/CONFIRM, we assessed clinical efficacy and safety/tolerability in black, Hispanic, and Asian patients treated with DMF 240 mg twice daily (approved dosage) or placebo. Eligible patients were 18–55 years of age with an Expanded Disability Status Scale score of 0–5.0. In the integrated intention-to-treat population, 769 and 771 patients were treated with DMF or placebo, respectively, of whom 10 and 19 were black, 31 and 23 were Hispanic, and 66 and 70 were Asian.

Results

In the black, Hispanic, and Asian subgroups, DMF was associated with lower annualized relapse rates at 2 years compared with placebo [rate ratio (95% confidence interval (CI)), 0.05 (0.00–1.07); 0.31 (0.10–0.95); and 0.64 (0.30–1.34), respectively]. The percentage of black, Hispanic, and Asian patients with 12-week confirmed disability progression was lower with DMF (43%, 8%, and 20%, respectively) compared with placebo [57%, 30%, and 25%, respectively; hazard ratio (95% CI), 0.53 (0.02–1.39); 0.17 (0.00–0.60); and 0.71 (0.32–1.58), respectively]. The safety/tolerability profile of DMF was generally consistent with that in the overall population of DEFINE/CONFIRM. The incidence of adverse events leading to treatment discontinuation in black, Hispanic, and Asian patients was 2/10, 2/31, and 3/66, respectively, with DMF, and 2/19, 1/23, and 8/70, respectively, with placebo.

Conclusion

DMF may be an efficacious treatment with a favorable benefit–risk profile in black, Hispanic, and Asian patients with RRMS. Further clinical studies are needed to characterize differences in MS presentation and treatment outcomes across ethnic and racial groups.

Funding

Biogen.

Trial Registration

DEFINE: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00420212; CONFIRM ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00451451.
Stress, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and tobacco smoking: The i-Share study
Authors: Galéra C. , Salla J. , Montagni I. , Hanne-Poujade S. , Salamon R. , Grondin O. , Guichard E. , Bouvard M.P. , Tzourio C. , Michel G.
Published: August 2017

Background:

The contribution of mental health to the risk of smoking is increasingly acknowledged but still insufficiently studied during the key period of student life. In particular, the simultaneous action of stress and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms on the risk of smoking remains poorly understood.

Aims:

To assess the effects of stress and ADHD symptoms on tobacco smoking.

Method:

Multivariate modeling was conducted on the French i-Share study (n = 8110, median age 20.3 years, 74.8% females, 32.9% regular/occasional smokers) to evaluate the associations between stress, ADHD symptoms and tobacco smoking, adjusting for potential family/socio-demographic confounders.

Results:

Students with high levels of stress were more likely to smoke > 10 cigarettes/day (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.48, 95% CI: 1.12–1.96) than those with low levels of stress. Students with high levels of ADHD symptoms were more likely to smoke > 10 cigarettes/day (aOR: 2.08, 95% CI: 1.58–2.75) than those with low levels of ADHD symptoms.

Conclusions:

Stress and ADHD contribute independently to the risk of smoking. Interventions targeting each condition are likely to reduce the burden of tobacco use in students.