bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chiral Self‐Recognition between Stereogenic Tetrapalladium Units Affording Pd8 Chains Supported by Homochiral Tetraphosphines
Authors: Tanase Tomoaki , Morita Konomi , Otaki Risa , Yamamoto Kana , Kaneko Yukino , Nakamae Kanako , Kure Bunsho , Nakajima Takayuki
Published: November 2016

By using a chiral tetraphosphine, rac‐bis[(diphenylphosphinomethyl)phenylphosphino]methane (rac‐dpmppm), linear octapalladium chains were synthesized as discrete molecules of [Pd8(μ‐rac‐dpmppm)4L2](BF4)4 (L=CH3CN, dmf, XylNC), [Pd8(μ‐rac‐dpmppm)4](BF4)4, and [Pd8(μ‐rac‐dpmppm)4(Cl)2](BF4)2, which are stable in the solution states and characterized by spectroscopic and crystallographic methods to reveal the octapalladium chains supported by homochiral four tetraphosphines. Variable‐temperature NMR studies for a 1:1 mixture of [Pd8(μ‐rac‐dpmppm)4(dmf)2](BF4)4 and [Pd8(μ‐meso‐dpmppm)4(dmf)2]‐(BF4)4 in [D7]DMF revealed that the Pd8 chains were dissociated at higher temperature (T≈140 °C) into the Pd4 units of {Pd4(μ‐rac‐dpmppm)2}2+ and {Pd4(μ‐meso‐dpmppm)2}2+, and they were thermodynamically self‐aligned to restore the Pd8 chains at lower temperature (T<60 °C), through perfect chiral self‐recognition between the stereogenic tetrapalladium units.
ChemInform Abstract: Sequential Regioselective C—H Functionalization of Thiophenes.
Authors: Daniels Matthew H. , Armand Jeremy R. , Tan Kian L.
Published: November 2016

A sequential functionalization of 5‐membered ring heterocycles is disclosed.
Lymph node‐positive prostate cancer—From middle child to the new frontier
Authors: Chen Ronald C.
Published: November 2016

Retrospective data suggest that aggressive treatment can lead to long‐term survival in patients who have lymph node‐positive prostate cancer. This is an understudied group of patients, and prospective clinical trials are needed. See also pages 512‐20.
Effect of hospital volume on processes of breast cancer care: A National Cancer Data Base study
Authors: Yen Tina W. F. , Pezzin Liliana E. , Li Jianing , Sparapani Rodney , Laud Purushuttom W. , Nattinger Ann B.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to examine variations in delivery of several breast cancer processes of care that are correlated with lower mortality and disease recurrence, and to determine the extent to which hospital volume explains this variation.

METHODS

Women who were diagnosed with stage I‐III unilateral breast cancer between 2007 and 2011 were identified within the National Cancer Data Base. Multiple logistic regression models were developed to determine whether hospital volume was independently associated with each of 10 individual process of care measures addressing diagnosis and treatment, and 2 composite measures assessing appropriateness of systemic treatment (chemotherapy and hormonal therapy) and locoregional treatment (margin status and radiation therapy).

RESULTS

Among 573,571 women treated at 1755 different hospitals, 38%, 51%, and 10% were treated at high‐, medium‐, and low‐volume hospitals, respectively. On multivariate analysis controlling for patient sociodemographic characteristics, treatment year and geographic location, hospital volume was a significant predictor for cancer diagnosis by initial biopsy (medium volume: odds ratio [OR] = 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05‐1.25; high volume: OR = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.14‐1.49), negative surgical margins (medium volume: OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.06‐1.24; high volume: OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.13‐1.44), and appropriate locoregional treatment (medium volume: OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.07‐1.17; high volume: OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.09‐1.24).

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of breast cancer before initial surgery, negative surgical margins and appropriate use of radiation therapy may partially explain the volume–survival relationship. Dissemination of these processes of care to a broader group of hospitals could potentially improve the overall quality of care and outcomes of breast cancer survivors. Cancer 2017;123:957–66. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
The challenges of tumor genetic diversity
Authors: Mroz Edmund A. , Rocco James W.
Published: November 2016

The authors review and discuss the implications of genomic analyses documenting the diversity of tumors, both among patients and within individual tumors. Genetic diversity among solid tumors limits targeted therapies, because few mutations that drive tumors are both targetable and at high prevalence. Many more driver mutations and how they affect cellular signaling pathways must be identified if targeted therapy is to become widely useful. Genetic diversity within a tumor—intratumor genetic heterogeneity—makes the tumor a collection of subclones: related yet distinct cancers. Selection for pre‐existing, resistant subclones by conventional or targeted therapies may explain many treatment failures. Immune therapy faces the same fundamental challenges. Nevertheless, the processes that generate and maintain heterogeneity might provide novel therapeutic targets. Addressing both types of diversity requires genomic tumor analyses linked to detailed clinical data. The trend toward sequencing restricted cancer gene panels, however, limits the ability to discover new driver mutations and assess intratumor heterogeneity. Clinical data currently collected with genomic analyses often lack critical information, substantially limiting their use in understanding tumor diversity. Now that diversity among and within tumors can no longer be ignored, research and clinical practice must adapt to take diversity into account. Cancer 2017;123:917–27. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Prediagnostic alcohol consumption and colorectal cancer survival: The Colon Cancer Family Registry
Authors: Phipps Amanda I. , Robinson Jamaica R. , Campbell Peter T. , Win Aung Ko , Figueiredo Jane C. , Lindor Noralane M. , Newcomb Polly A.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Although previous studies have noted an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) among moderate to heavy alcohol consumers in comparison with nondrinkers, the relation between alcohol consumption and CRC survival remains unclear.

METHODS

Cases of incident invasive CRC diagnosed between 1997 and 2007 were identified via population‐based cancer registries at 4 study sites in the Colon Cancer Family Registry. Study participants completed a risk‐factor questionnaire on prediagnostic behaviors, including wine, beer, and liquor consumption, at the baseline. Prospective follow‐up for survival was conducted for 4966 CRC cases. Cox regression was used to compare nondrinkers with individuals who consumed, on average, 1 or more servings of alcohol per day in the years preceding their CRC diagnosis with respect to overall and disease‐specific survival. Separate analyses by beverage type, stratified by patient and tumor attributes, were also performed. All models were adjusted for the age at diagnosis, sex, study site, year of diagnosis, smoking history, body mass index, and education.

RESULTS

Prediagnostic beer and liquor consumption was not associated with CRC survival; however, higher levels of wine consumption were modestly associated with a better prognosis overall (CRC‐specific hazard ratio [HR], 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.48‐1.03; overall HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.53‐0.94). Similar patterns were noted in stratified analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that prediagnostic wine consumption is modestly associated with more favorable survival after CRC. Cancer 2017;123:1035–43. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Hybrids of Metal Nanoclusters and Graphene‐Based Materials: Preparation, Properties and Applications
Authors: Koklioti Malamatenia A. , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: November 2016

There is a significant drive within the scientific community to meet the demanding requirements of advanced energy‐conversion and detection schemes. The advantageous features of incorporating graphene with sub‐nanometer‐sized metal nanoclusters (MNCs) have already revealed encouraging results in key areas of selective sensing of hazardous molecules, detection of biologically related structures, bioimaging and hydrogen evolution. This timely Focus Review explores recent progress in the preparation and properties of MNCs/graphene hybrid materials, mainly focusing on the discussion of their applications. Moreover, a brief outlook on the future development of MNCs/graphene hybrid materials aiming to broaden their spectrum of applications is also provided.
Elevated circulating Neuregulin4 level in patients with diabetes
Authors: Chen Lu‐Lu , Peng Miao‐Miao , Zhang Jiao‐Yue , Hu Xiang , Min Jie , Huang Qiu‐Lan , Wan Li‐Min
Published: November 2016

Background

Neuregulin4 (Nrg4) is a novel adipokine expressed in adipose tissues, enriched in brown adipose tissue, and able to improve whole‐body metabolism in rodent, thus having the potential to treat obesity‐associated disorders such as diabetes. However, the association between serum Nrg4 levels and diabetes risk in human remains unclear. This study was designed to examine circulating Nrg4 levels in subjects with different glucose tolerance status.

Methods

Age‐, sex‐, and body mass index–matched subjects (n = 310: 83 normal glucose tolerance [NGT], 129 prediabetes, and 96 diabetes) from the Risk Evaluation of Cancers in Chinese Diabetic Individuals: A Longitudinal study (Reaction study) were included. Serum Nrg4 was measured via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Basic anthropometric parameters, fasting plasma glucose and 2‐hours postload plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and serum lipid profile were also measured.

Results

The serum Nrg4 levels were higher in patients with diabetes than those with NGT and prediabetes (diabetes: 396.8[65.9, 709.4], NGT: 80.1[0, 554.1], prediabetes: 168.0[32.9, 463.9] pg/mL [median (interquartile range), both P < 0.05]). The Nrg4 concentration was correlated with fasting plasma glucose. When the top versus bottom quartiles of serum Nrg4 concentrations were compared with adjustment for age and sex, an odds ratio of 3.005 was observed in diabetes prevalence, which persisted after adjusting other potential confounding variables. Other nonglucose parameters as body mass index; waist, hip, and neck circumferences; alanine aminotransferase; triglyceride; high‐density lipoprotein; uric acid; and estimated glomerular filtration rate were also correlated with serum Nrg4 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The circulating Nrg4 level is elevated in the prediabetic and diabetic patients compared to control and is an independent risk factor associated with diabetes.
Applicability of ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time of flight mass spectrometry for cocaine profiling
Authors: Liu Cuimei , Hua Zhendong , Meng Xin
Published: November 2016

For the first time in China, the chemical profiling of cocaine specimens was performed at the National Narcotics Laboratory. An ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time of flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous analysis of 14 cocaine alkaloids and 5 main adulterants. Among them, ecgonine methyl ester, ecgonine, benzoylecgonine, and norcocaine were identified by comparing with the standard materials; tropacocaine, 3,4,5‐trimethoxycocaine, cis‐/trans‐cinnamoylcocaine were tentatively identified based on the exact masses of protonated molecules and product ions; six unidentified alkaloids of 182/1.47, 316/9.54, 659/9.85, 316/9.87, 420/10.34, and 420/10.85 were marked with ‘extracted mass/retention time’ for convenience. Minimum sample preparation and analysis time were required, which was suitable for routine analysis. Based on the semi‐quantitative data set of 14 alkaloid impurities in 131 linked/unlinked cocaine samples, 50 combinations of pretreatment methods and distance/correlation measurements were tested for their potential discrimination power for cocaine profiling, and Logarithm/Pearson exhibited the best result. After hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), 183 cocaine samples collected from 2011 to 2015 were classified into 7 major groups. Moreover, 37 groups of linked samples were found within and between provinces, which provide intelligence for the case connection and revealing of the distribution networks. Our results highlighted the practical utilities of drug profiling, especially to support the investigation through operational intelligence and to improve the knowledge related to the drug trafficking through strategic intelligence. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Siting marine protected areas based on habitat quality and extent provides the greatest benefit to spatially structured metapopulations
Authors: Cabral Reniel B. , Gaines Steven D. , Lim May T. , Atrigenio Michael P. , Mamauag Samuel S. , Pedemonte Gerold C. , Aliño Porfirio M.
Published: November 2016

Connectivity and its role in the persistence and sustainability of marine metapopulations are attracting increased attention from the scientific community and coastal resource managers. Whether protection should prioritize the connectivity structure or demographic characteristics of a given patch is still unclear. We design a three‐stage population model to analyze the relative importance of sources, sinks, quality and extent of juvenile and adult habitat, and node centralities (eigenvector, degree, closeness, and betweenness) as a basis for prioritizing sites. We use a logistic‐type stage‐structured model to describe the local dynamics of a population with a sessile adult stage and network models to elucidate propagule‐exchange dynamics. Our results show that the coupled states of habitat extent and quality, which determine population carrying capacity, are good criteria for protection strategy. Protecting sites on the basis of sources, sinks, or other centrality measures of connectivity becomes optimal only in limited situations, that is, when larval production is not dependent on the adult population. Our findings are robust to a diverse set of larval pathway structures and levels of larval retention, which indicates that the network topology may not be as important as carrying capacity in determining the fate of the metapopulation. Protecting extensive, good quality habitat can help achieve both conservation and fisheries objectives.
Using habitat suitability models in an industrial setting: the case for internesting flatback turtles
Authors: Whittock Paul A. , Pendoley Kellie L. , Hamann Mark
Published: November 2016

To predict and manage ecological impacts of anthropogenic activities effectively, an understanding of at‐risk species spatial ecology is first required. This is particularly difficult in the marine environment due to limited offshore access and wide‐ranging movements of some species. Flatback turtles are a protected species potentially at risk from hazards associated with the resource sector in Australia, yet their at‐sea spatial ecology is not well understood. We use habitat suitability modeling to identify environmental variables that influence flatback turtle internesting movement; identify areas of suitable internesting habitat; and determine overlap of identified internesting habitat with resource sector hazards. Internesting movements of 47 female flatback turtles, from five rookeries in the North West Shelf region of Western Australia, were recorded using platform terminal transmitters between 2006 and 2010. Environmental variables including sea surface temperature (SST), bathymetry, magnetic anomalies, distance from coastline, slope, and ruggedness index were combined with the tracking data from each rookery in an ecological niche model. We used the positions of resource sector vessels to represent areas of potential impact from resource sector hazards and identified overlap with suitable internesting habitat areas as a representative of the likelihood of impact. The primary environmental variables that influenced flatback internesting movement were bathymetry, distance from coastline, and SST. Suitable areas of internesting habitat were located in close proximity to many known flatback turtle rookeries across the region. Areas of suitable internesting habitat overlapped resource sector hazards in close proximity to four of the five rookeries and at other known flatback turtle rookeries. The cumulative overlap across the overall study area indicates a high potential for interaction with resource sector hazards, demonstrating the need for regional protection measures in these areas. This study provides a capability for regulators and developers to determine the potential offshore presence of internesting flatback turtles within the region, allowing for protection measures to be targeted appropriately as industrial development continues.
Root disease can rival fire and harvest in reducing forest carbon storage
Authors: Healey Sean P. , Raymond Crystal L. , Lockman I. Blakey , Hernandez Alexander J. , Garrard Chris , Huang Chengquan
Published: November 2016

Root diseases are known to suppress forest regeneration and reduce growth rates, and they may become more common as susceptible tree species become maladapted in parts of their historic ranges due to climate change. However, current ecosystem models do not track the effects of root disease on net productivity, and there has been little research on how the dynamics of root disease affect carbon (C) storage and productivity across infected landscapes. We compared the effects of root disease against the effects of other types of forest disturbance across six national forest landscapes, 1990–2011. This was enabled by a monitoring tool called the Forest Carbon Management Framework (ForCaMF), which makes use of ground inventory data, an empirical growth model, and time series of Landsat satellite imagery. Despite several large fires that burned across these landscapes during the study period, retrospective ForCaMFanalysis showed that fire and root disease had approximately equal impacts on C storage. Relative to C accumulation that would have occurred in their absence, fires from 1990 to 2011 were estimated to reduce regionwide C storage by 215.3 ± 19.1 g/m2 C, while disease in the same period was estimated to reduce storage by 211.4 ± 59.9 g/m2 C. Harvest (75.5 ± 13.5 g/m2 C) and bark beetle activity (14.8 ± 12.5 g/m2 C) were less important. While long‐term disturbance processes such as root disease have generally been ignored by tools informing management of forest C storage, the recent history of several national forests suggests that such disturbances can be just as important to the C cycle as more conspicuous events like wildfires.
Effects of climate and water balance across grasslands of varying C3 and C4 grass cover
Authors: Witwicki Dana L. , Munson Seth M. , Thoma David P.
Published: November 2016

Climate change in grassland ecosystems may lead to divergent shifts in the abundance and distribution of C3 and C4 grasses. Many studies relate mean climate conditions over relatively long time periods to plant cover, but there is still much uncertainty about how the balance of C3 and C4 species will be affected by climate at a finer temporal scale than season (individual events to months). We monitored cover at five grassland sites with co‐dominant C3 and C4 grass species or only dominant C3 grass species for 6 yr in national parks across the Colorado Plateau region to assess the influence of specific months of climate and water balance on changes in grass cover. C4 grass cover increased and decreased to a larger degree than C3 grass cover with extremely dry and wet consecutive years, but this response varied by ecological site. Climate and water balance explained 10–49% of the inter‐annual variability of cover of C3 and C4 grasses at all sites. High precipitation in the spring and in previous year monsoon storms influenced changes in cover of C4 grasses, with measures of water balance in the same months explaining additional variability. C3 grasses in grasslands where they were dominant were influenced primarily by longer periods of climate, while C3 grasses in grasslands where they were co‐dominant with C4 grasses were influenced little by climate anomalies at either short or long periods of time. Our results suggest that future changes in spring and summer climate and water balance are likely to affect cover of both C3 and C4 grasses, but cover of C4 grasses may be affected more strongly, and the degree of change will depend on soils and topography where they are growing and the timing of the growing season.
Archival photogrammetric analysis of river–floodplain systems using Structure from Motion (SfM) methods
Authors: Bakker Maarten , Lane Stuart N.
Published: November 2016

In this study we evaluate the extent to which accurate topographic data can be obtained by applying Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetric methods to archival imagery. While SfM has proven valuable in photogrammetric applications using specially acquired imagery (e.g. from unmanned aerial vehicles), it also has the potential to improve the precision of topographic data and the ease with which can be produced from historical imagery. We evaluate the application of SfM to a relatively extreme case, one of low relative relief: a braided river–floodplain system. We compared the bundle adjustments of SfM and classical photogrammetric methods, applied to eight dates. The SfM approach resulted in data quality similar to the classical approach, although the lens parameter values (e.g. focal length) recovered in the SfM process were not necessarily the same as their calibrated equivalents. Analysis showed that image texture and image overlap/configuration were critical drivers in the tie‐point generation which impacted bundle adjustment quality. Working with archival imagery also illustrated the general need for the thorough understanding and careful application of (commercial) SfM software packages. As with classical methods, the propagation of (random) error in the estimation of lens and exterior orientation parameters using SfM methods may lead to inherent systematic error in the derived point clouds. We have shown that linear errors may be accounted for by point cloud registration based on a reference dataset, which is vital for the further application in quantitative morphological analyses when using archival imagery. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatic gadoxetic acid uptake as a measure of diffuse liver disease: Where are we?
Authors: Ba‐Ssalamah Ahmed , Bastati Nina , Wibmer Andreas , Fragner Romana , Hodge Jacqueline C. , Trauner Michael , Herold Christian J. , Bashir Mustafa R. , Van Beers Bernard E.
Published: November 2016

MRI has emerged as the most comprehensive noninvasive diagnostic tool for focal liver lesions and diffuse hepatobiliary disorders. The introduction of hepatobiliary contrast agents, most notably gadoxetic acid (GA), has expanded the role of MRI, particularly in the functional imaging of chronic liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). GA‐enhanced MRI (GA‐MRI) may help to distinguish between the two subgroups of NAFLD, simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Furthermore, GA‐MRI can be used to stage fibrosis and cirrhosis, predict liver transplant graft survival, and preoperatively estimate the risk of liver failure should major resection be undertaken. The amount of GA uptake can be estimated, using static images, by the relative liver enhancement, hepatic uptake index, and relaxometry of T1‐mapping during the hepatobiliary phase. On the contrary, the hepatic extraction fraction and liver perfusion can be measured on dynamic imaging. Importantly, there is currently no clear consensus as to which of these MR‐derived parameters is the most suitable for assessing liver dysfunction. This review article aims to describe the current role of GA‐enhanced MRI in quantifying liver function, primarily in diffuse hepatobiliary disorders.

Level of Evidence: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:646–659.
Inflammasomes, hormesis, and antioxidants in neuroinflammation: Role of NRLP3 in Alzheimer disease
Authors: Pennisi Manuela , Crupi Rosalia , Di Paola Rosanna , Ontario Maria Laura , Bella Rita , Calabrese Edward J. , Crea Roberto , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Calabrese Vittorio
Published: November 2016

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder leading to cognitive decline, neuropsychiatric symptoms, disability, caregiver burden, and premature death. It represents the most prevalent cause of dementia, and its incidence rates exponentially increase with increasing age. The number of Americans living with AD is rapidly increasing. An estimated 5.4 million Americans of all ages have AD in 2016. One in nine people aged 65 and older has AD, and by midcentury, someone in the United States will develop the disease every 33 sec. It is now accepted that neuroinflammation is a common feature of neurological disease. Inflammasomes, which are a multiprotein complex part of the innate immune system, induce inflammation in response to various stimuli, such as pathogens and stress. Inflammasomes activate proinflammatory caspases, such as caspase‐1, leading to the activation of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1b, IL‐18, and IL‐33, which promote neuroinflammation and brain pathologies. The nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor family, pyrin domain‐containing‐3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is the best characterized in neurodegenerative diseases, in particular AD. Recent research suggests that NLRP3 could possibly be used in targeted therapies to alleviate neuroinflammation. Modulation of endogenous cellular defense mechanisms may be an innovative approach to therapeutic intervention in AD and other disorders associated with neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Herein, we introduce the hormetic dose–response concept and present possible mechanisms and applications to neuroprotection. We summarize the mechanisms involved in activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its role in neuroinflammation. We also address and propose the potential therapeutic utility of the nutritional antioxidants sulforaphane and hydroxytyrosol against particular signs and symptoms of AD. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability in Soil Hydraulic Conductivity and Soil Hydrological Response Under Different Land Covers in the Mountainous Area of the Heihe River Watershed, Northwest China
Authors: Tian Jie , Zhang Baoqing , He Chansheng , Yang Lixiao
Published: November 2016

Understanding the variability in soil hydraulic conductivity in the mountainous headwaters is critical to the modeling of mountainous runoff and the water resources management of river basins, especially in the arid and semiarid areas. In this study, a total of 32 soil profiles with five layers within 0–70 cm were sampled under different land cover types: forest, meadow, high coverage grassland (HCG), medium coverage grassland (MCG), and barren land in the upper stream of the Heihe river watershed, Northwest China. Saturated hydraulic conductivity (KS) was measured for each sample. The vertical variation of KS and soil hydrological response under different land covers were analyzed. Results show that KS value in layer 5 was significantly lower than the values of above four layers. KS decreased in the order of forest, meadow, HCG, MCG, and barren land, corresponding to the degree of vegetation degradation. The KS decreased with depth under forest, HCG, and barren land, but increased first and then decreased under meadow and MCG. The dominant stormflow paths for different land covers were different: forest was dominated by deep percolation, HCG was dominated by subsurface flow (SSF), meadow was prevailed by Hortonian overland flow and had no SSF, while MCG and barren land were also dominated by Hortonian overland flow, but still formed SSF. This result provides important information for improving the accuracy of mountainous hydrological modeling and, in turn, leading to sustainable management of water resources in the study watershed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fractional CO2 laser treatment of caesarean section scars—A randomized controlled split‐scar trial with long term follow‐up assessment
Authors: Karmisholt Katrine E. , Taudorf Elisabeth H. , Wulff Camilla B. , Wenande Emily , Philipsen Peter A. , Haedersdal Merete
Published: November 2016

Background and Objectives

Caesarean section (c‐section) scars can be pose functional and cosmetic challenges and ablative fractional laser (AFXL) treatment may offer benefit to patients. We evaluated textural and color changes over time in AFXL‐treated versus untreated control scars.

Materials and Methods

A randomized, controlled, intra‐individual split‐scar trial with three sessions of AFXL‐treatments for mature c‐section scars. Settings of AFXL were adjusted to each individual scar. End‐points were blinded on‐site clinical evaluations at 1, 3, and 6 months follow‐up (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale [POSAS] and Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]), blinded photo‐evaluations, reflectance measurements, tissue histology, and patients satisfaction.

Results

Eleven of 12 patients completed the study. At 1 month follow‐up, AFXL‐treated scars were significantly improved in pliability (POSAS P = 0.01 VSS P = 0.02) and smoother in surface relief (POSAS P = 0.03) compared to control scars. At 1–3 months, overall scar appearance was dominated by transient erythema and hyperpigmentation, confirmed by reflectance measurements (erythema% and pigmentation% peaked at 1 and 3 month follow‐up, respectively). At 6 months follow‐up, AFXL‐treated scars improved on POSAS‐total score though not significantly (P = 0.06). Correspondingly, blinded photo‐evaluation found AFXL‐treated scars significantly improved compared to controls (VAS P = 0.02). Histology indicated new dermal collagen and elastic fibers on AFXL‐treated scars. At 6 months follow‐up, a majority of patients (64%) favored subsequent AFXL‐treatment of their untreated control scar tissue.

Conclusions

Scar remodeling is initiated 1 month after AFXL treatment, but overall scar improvement is concealed until laser‐induced color changes resolve. At 6 months follow‐up, the benefit of AFXL treatment on c‐section scars emerges. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:189–197, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Challenges in the application of DCVG‐survey to predict coating defect size on pipelines
Authors: Anes‐Arteche F. , Yu K. , Bharadwaj U. , Lee C. , Wang B.
Published: November 2016

Corrosion is often the cause of pipeline failure potentially resulting in disasters causing damage and fatalities. To maintain the integrity of non‐piggable lines, NACE's external corrosion direct assessment (ECDA) methodology is commonly applied to assess external corrosion that can occur at coating defects on underground pipelines. Work presented here is from a validation exercise carried out on the results of ECDA assessment using subsequent excavation data. The ECDA was carried out over 300 km of crude oil pipelines with excavation carried out at 200 locations. This paper models the relationships between pipeline coating defect area (area with coating breakdown), corrosion depth, direct current–voltage gradient (DCVG) measurements (in terms of %IR values) and factors capturing diverse environmental conditions through novel application of regression models. This paper sheds light on the challenges in drawing conclusions in the assessment of corrosion from DCVG inspection data and other types of data that form key inputs to ECDA. We expect that the analyses shown here using innovative regression models will support more reliable predictions of external corrosion in pipelines.
Surface chemistry evolution of F‐doped Ni‐base superalloy upon heat treatment
Authors: Zschau H.‐E. , Schütze M. , Galetz M. C. , Gleeson B. M. , Neve S. , Lorenz M. , Grundmann M.
Published: November 2016

Ni‐based superalloys with Al‐contents between 3 and 5 wt% exhibit insufficient oxidation resistance at temperatures above 900 °C. A change of the oxidation mechanism has been achieved after doping surface‐near regions with fluorine by ion implantation and subsequent heat treatment. With that, the formation of a protective alumina scale was observed. This study is dedicated to the nature of the kinetic bias for the alumina scale formation. The samples of alloy IN738 (3.5 wt% Al) were implanted with F‐ions (1017 F/cm2 at 38 keV). The depth profiles of O, Ni, Cr, Co, Ti, and Al were determined using secondary neutrals mass spectrometry (SNMS), whereas the F‐depth profiles were measured by non‐destructive proton‐induced gamma‐ray emission (PIGE). Directly after F‐implantation no Al‐enrichment near the surface was observed. After heating up to temperatures between 400 and 800 °C, no distinct alumina scale formation was observed. At 1000 and 1050 °C, a distinct Al‐rich region has formed. Extending the oxidation time up to 12 h leads to a pronounced Al‐profile, suggesting the growth of a pure alumina scale near the surface.
Short‐term spinodal decomposition – its effects on corrosion behaviour of a duplex stainless steel and feasibility as a strengthening treatment
Authors: Ai W. J. , Kuan H. C. , Dong J. J. , Kwok C. T. , Lo K. H.
Published: November 2016

The present paper looks into the effects of spinodal decomposition (SD) on the corrosion resistance and cavitation erosion behaviour of the duplex stainless steel (DSS) 7MoPLUS. SD takes place at 500 °C in the ferrite phase at the early stage of thermal ageing, with an attendant hardness increase. Nevertheless, thermal ageing at this temperature for up to 2 days nearly does not reduce pitting potential (in 3.5% NaCl). Surface integrity, however, is degraded by the appearance of noticeable pits after just a few hours of exposure to this temperature. Ageing for 1 week at 500 °C does not seem to alter the corrosion morphology of the ferrite phase in 1 M HCl. On the other hand, SD does bring about changes to the nature of passive film, as demonstrated by open‐circuit potential measurements in 3.5% NaCl. The cavitation erosion (CE) resistance of 7MoPLUS is slightly enhanced by short‐term SD treatment (for 5 h), as propagation of CE damage emanating from deformation twins in the ferrite phase is made less efficient. It is suggested that short‐term SD treatment is a feasible strengthening method for DSSs.
Investigation of corrosion rates with an electrochemical measuring cell in relation to the W0‐factor according to DIN 50929‐3 and the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC)
Authors: Ruppert J. , Frimmel F. H. , Baier R. , Baumann H.
Published: November 2016

The W0‐factor is a common metric to express the aggressivity of water against unalloyed iron. It accounts for multiple parameters, called rating numbers, which represent the concentration of chloride, sulfate and calcium ions, the pH‐value and the acid capacity of the immersion medium. The use of ranges in the physical quantities metric rating number, however, allows for unaccounted variations in the immersion medium composition, i.e., slightly different immersion media may produce the same W0‐factor. To verify the results, the experiments were also carried out with natural waters as immersion media and their W0‐factors were determined. In addition, the DOC content, which is not included in the W0‐factor, has an impact on the corrosive character of the immersion medium. In order to account for the influence of the DOC content in the measurements, multiple solutions with different DOC concentrations were investigated. The results show that a higher DOC content (based on humic substances) in the observed solutions causes a reduction in the corrosion rate. This result agrees with observations of nature.
Properties degradation and atmospheric corrosion mechanism of 6061 aluminum alloy in industrial and marine atmosphere environments
Authors: Yang X. K. , Zhang L. W. , Zhang S. Y. , Liu M. , Zhou K. , Mu X. L.
Published: November 2016

The atmospheric corrosion behavior of 6061 aluminum alloy exposed in industrial and marine atmosphere environments for 36 months has been investigated by weight loss test, tensile strength test, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and optical microscope. The results of weight loss and tensile strength showed that, compared with industrial atmosphere environment, 6061 presented higher corrosion susceptibility in marine atmosphere environment. XPS analysis indicated that the major constituents of corrosion products formed in industrial atmosphere environment were aluminum hydroxide, aluminum oxide, and aluminum sulfate. In marine atmosphere environment, corrosion products mainly contained aluminum chloride, aluminum hydroxide, and aluminum oxide. Surface morphologies analysis revealed that the corrosion products formed in industrial atmosphere environment were agglomerated and uneven. The corrosion products formed in marine atmosphere environment presented polygon shape, and revealed some broad cracks. Cross‐section morphologies analysis manifested that 6061 suffered pitting attack in both types of atmosphere environments, and the intensity of pitting attack in marine atmosphere environment was much more serious than that in industrial atmosphere environment.
Anodic dissolution of solid‐state sintered silicon carbide at high current densities
Authors: Schneider M. , Schubert N. , Michaelis A.
Published: November 2016

The electrochemical behavior of solid‐sintered silicon carbide was investigated under high current densities in alkaline solutions. The use of potentiodynamic as well as chronoamperometric measurements show that the anodic dissolution takes place as a transpassive mechanism under formation of a metastable passive layer. At high polarization potentials (≈150 V), the dielectric breakdown of the passive layer which was primarily formed on the surface initiates an anodic dissolution of sintered silicon carbide at high current densities. Complementary material diagnostics (optical microscopy and SEM/EDX investigation) clearly show significant material removal as well as remaining oxide layer thicker than the native oxide film.
Dystonia‐deafness syndrome caused by a β‐actin gene mutation and response to deep brain stimulation
Authors: Eggink Hendriekje , van Egmond Martje E. , Verschuuren‐Bemelmans Corien C. , Schönherr Marleen C. , de Koning Tom J. , Oterdoom D.L. Marinus , van Dijk J. Marc C. , Tijssen Marina A.J.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Dystonia‐deafness syndrome is a distinct clinical presentation within the dystonia‐spectrum. Although several genetic and acquired causes have been reported, etiology remains unknown in the majority of patients.

Objectives

To describe two patients with dystonia‐deafness syndrome due to a beta‐actin gene mutation.

Methods

We report on disease course, genetic testing, and management of 2 patients, mother and daughter, presenting with dystonia‐deafness syndrome.

Results

After exclusion of known dystonia‐deafness syndrome causes, whole‐exome sequencing revealed a beta‐actin gene mutation (p.Arg183Trp) in both patients. Although beta‐actin gene mutations are generally associated with developmental Baraitser‐Winter syndrome, dystonia‐deafness syndrome has been reported once in identical twin brothers. Bilateral GPi‐DBS led to a significant decrease of dystonia and regain of independency in our patients.

Conclusion

The p.Arg183Trp mutation in the beta‐actin gene is associated with the clinical presentation of dystonia‐deafness syndrome, even with only minimal or no developmental abnormalities of Baraitser‐Winter syndrome. GPi‐DBS should be considered to ameliorate the invalidating dystonia in these patients. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Combined Simulation and Mutation Studies to Elucidate Selectivity of Unsubstituted Amphetamine‐like Cathinones at the Dopamine Transporter
Authors: Seddik Amir , Geerke Daan P. , Stockner Thomas , Holy Marion , Kudlacek Oliver , Cozzi Nicholas V. , Ruoho Arnold E. , Sitte Harald H. , Ecker Gerhard F.
Published: November 2016

The dopamine and serotonin transporter proteins (DAT, SERT) play a vital role in behavior and mental illness. Although their substrate transport has been studied extensively, the molecular basis of their selectivity is not completely understood yet. In this study, we exploit molecular dynamics simulations combined with mutagenesis studies to shed light on the driving factors for DAT‐over‐SERT selectivity of a set of cathinones. Results indicate that these compounds can adopt two binding modes of which one is more favorable. In addition, free energy calculations indicated the substrate binding site (S1) as the primary recognition site for these ligands. By simulating DAT with SERT‐like mutations, we hypothesize unsubstituted cathinones to bind more favorably to DAT, due to a Val152 offering more space, as compared to the bulkier Ile172 in SERT. This was supported by uptake inhibition measurements, which showed an increase in activity in SERT‐I172V.
Uncovering a third dissolved‐phase 129Xe resonance in the human lung: Quantifying spectroscopic features in healthy subjects and patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Robertson Scott H. , Virgincar Rohan S. , Bier Elianna A. , He Mu , Schrank Geoffrey M. , Smigla Rose Marie , Rackley Craig , McAdams H. Page , Driehuys Bastiaan
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to accurately characterize the spectral properties of hyperpolarized 129Xe in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) compared to healthy volunteers.

Methods

Subjects underwent hyperpolarized 129Xe breath‐hold spectroscopy, during which 38 dissolved‐phase free induction decays (FIDs) were acquired after reaching steady state (echo time/repetition time = 0.875/50 ms; bandwidth = 8.06 kHz; flip angle≈22 °). FIDs were averaged and then decomposed into multiple spectral components using time‐domain curve fitting. The resulting amplitudes, frequencies, line widths, and starting phases of each component were compared among groups using a Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon U test.

Results

Three dissolved‐phase resonances, consisting of red blood cells (RBCs) and two barrier compartments, were consistently identified in all subjects. In subjects with IPF relative to healthy volunteers, the RBC frequency was 0.70 parts per million (ppm) more negative (P = 0.05), the chemical shift of barrier 2 was 0.6 ppm more negative (P = 0.009), the line widths of both barrier peaks were ∼2 ppm narrower (P < 0.001), and the starting phase of barrier 1 was 20.3 ° higher (P =  0.01). Moreover, the ratio RBC:barriers was reduced by 52.9% in IPF (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The accurate decomposition of 129Xe spectra not only has merit for developing a global metric of pulmonary function, but also provides necessary insights to optimize phase‐sensitive methods for imaging 129Xe gas transfer. Magn Reson Med 78:1306–1315, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Assessment of passive muscle elongation using Diffusion Tensor MRI: Correlation between fiber length and diffusion coefficients
Authors: Mazzoli Valentina , Oudeman Jos , Nicolay Klaas , Maas Mario , Verdonschot Nico , Sprengers Andre M. , Nederveen Aart J. , Froeling Martijn , Strijkers Gustav J.
Published: November 2016

In this study we investigated the changes in fiber length and diffusion parameters as a consequence of passive lengthening and stretching of the calf muscles. We hypothesized that changes in radial diffusivity (RD) are caused by changes in the muscle fiber cross sectional area (CSA) as a consequence of lengthening and shortening of the muscle. Diffusion Tensor MRI (DT‐MRI) measurements were made twice in five healthy volunteers, with the foot in three different positions (30° plantarflexion, neutral position and 15° dorsiflexion). The muscles of the calf were manually segmented on co‐registered high resolution anatomical scans, and maps of RD and axial diffusivity (AD) were reconstructed from the DT‐MRI data. Fiber tractography was performed and mean fiber length was calculated for each muscle group. Significant negative correlations were found between the changes in RD and changes in fiber length in the dorsiflexed and plantarflexed positions, compared with the neutral foot position. Changes in AD did not correlate with changes in fiber length. Assuming a simple cylindrical model with constant volume for the muscle fiber, the changes in the muscle fiber CSA were calculated from the changes in fiber length. In line with our hypothesis, we observed a significant positive correlation of the CSA with the measured changes in RD. In conclusion, we showed that changes in diffusion coefficients induced by passive muscle stretching and lengthening can be explained by changes in muscle CSA, advancing the physiological interpretation of parameters derived from skeletal muscle DT‐MRI.
Influences of poly(ethylene‐butylacrylate‐glycidyl methacrylate copolymer) on rheology characterization, morphology, dynamic mechanical, thermal, and mechanical properties of long glass fibers reinforced poly(butylene terephthalate) composites
Authors: Zhang Daohai , He Min , Qin Shuhao , Yu Jie
Published: November 2016

Long glass fibers (GF) reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane and poly(butylene terephthalate) with the different poly(ethylene‐butylacrylate‐glycidyl methacrylate copolymer) (PTW) compatibilizer content (LGF/TPU/PBT/PTW) composites were prepared by using self‐designed impregnation device. Effect of the different PTW compatibilizer content on rheological properties (for example, viscosity curve, storage modulus, loss modulus, loss angle, and relaxation spectrum) of LGF/TPU/PBT/PTW composites are studied. dynamic mechanical properties analysis results indicated that the compatibility of the LGF/TPU/PBT/PTW composites firstly increase and then decrease with increasing the PTW content. Effect of the different PTW content on thermal properties of LGF/TPU/PBT/PTW composites are studied by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analyses. Morphological observation by scanning electron microscopy revealed a thin layer of matrix resins adhering to the surface of GF indicating that epoxy functional group in the PTW reacts with GF surface and PBT matrix. Moreover, mechanical properties of LGF/TPU/PBT/PTW composites with the different PTW content are studied. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1354–E1363, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Experimental investigation on the effects of carbon nanotubes on mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of laminated composites
Authors: Kermansaravi Misaq , Pol Mohammad Hossein
Published: November 2016

In this research, a small quantity of multiwalled carbon nanotubes was used in order to enhance the IFT and the tensile properties of glass fiber/epoxy composite laminates. For this purpose, the nanocomposite samples, which have 18 fiber‐glass plain‐weave layers were manufactured. The epoxy resin system is made of Epon828 resin with Epikure F205 as the hardener. The MWCNTs modified with hydroxide (‐COOH) is also dispersed into the epoxy system as a reinforcement in a 0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 wt%. In addition, the tensile nanoresin and hybrid nanocomposite specimens were produced. In the tensile test of nanomatrixes, the maximum change in Young's modulus, ultimate strength, and fracture toughness of the samples is obtained in the 0.5 wt% sample, with a 31.2, 21.4, and 16.66% increase with respect to neat sample, respectively. Moreover, the results of the tensile test of hybrid nanocomposites show that the maximum change in fracture toughness, ultimate strength, and fracture strain of the samples is in the 0.5 wt% sample, with a 12.6, 9.8, and 12.6% increase with respect to the neat sample, respectively. The result of the double cantilever beam test of hybrid nanocomposites indicates that the maximum change in value of the force and value of the energy of crack propagation in mode I interlaminar fracture is in 0.5 wt% sample, with a 24.4 and 24.15% increase respect to the neat sample, respectively. Totally, it can be included that the 0.5 wt% is the best value out of 3% of MWCNTs to be added. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E797–E806, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers