bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
System for image‐guided resection of nonpalpable breast lesions: Proof of concept
Authors: Arsenali Bruno , de Jong Hugo W. A. M. , Viergever Max A. , Gilhuijs Kenneth G. A.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

In breast‐conserving surgery (BCS), the cancer is sometimes incompletely excised, leading to reduced patient survival. To pursue complete excisions, radioactive seed localization (RSL) may be used to insert an iodine‐125 seed into the tumor. The seed is used as a marker for the location of the tumor during surgery. RSL does not, however, show the extent of the tumor. Based on RSL, we pursue to visualize the seed location together with the extent from diagnostic images.

Methods

A system with two gamma‐camera heads and two parallel‐hole collimators was recently proposed to triangulate the location of an iodine‐125 seed during BCS. In the present study, this system was extended with a range camera to visualize a sphere centered on the seed in relation to the breast. This sphere contains the entire tumor and thus defines the target volume for BCS. Physical experiments with acrylic block phantoms (thickness ranging from 3.5 to 6.5 cm) were performed to assess the absolute bias and the precision with which this sphere can be visualized.

Results

When a 6.5 cm thick phantom was used, along the horizontal plane, the target volume was visualized with an absolute bias and a precision of 2.1 and 0.8 mm, respectively. Along the vertical axis (i.e., z‐axis), these values were 4.2 and 2.8 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

The proposed system visualizes the target volume with an absolute bias that may be acceptable for BCS.
A re‐examination of the BIS/BAS scales: Evidence for BIS and BAS as unidimensional scales
Authors: Maack Danielle J. , Ebesutani Chad
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Carver and White's behavioral inhibition system and behavioral activation system (BIS/BAS) scales are the most widely used to assess constructs of the revised reinforcement sensitivity theory. This study provides a re‐examination of the latent structure of the original BIS/BAS scales.

Methods

The interpretability of the three purported BAS subfactors relative to a “general behavioral activation” factor was assessed using Schmid–Leiman and standard confirmatory factor analysis. Regarding the BIS scale, comparisons were made between (a) Carver and White's unidimensional BIS model, (b) Johnson, Turner, and Iwata's 2‐factor BIS model, (c) Heym, Ferguson, and Lawrence's alternative 2‐factor BIS model, and (d) a modified Heym et al. model (unidimensional) controlling for method effects of reverse‐scored items.

Results

Results revealed the majority of variance of individual BAS items was accounted for by a common, general BAS dimension. Additionally, for the BIS scale, results of the χ2 difference statistical test supporting the 1‐factor model, as well as the noted theoretical and psychometric difficulties in interpreting a multifactor BIS scale, provide converging support that BIS items actually represent a single, unidimensional factor.

Conclusions

The collective results suggested that the BIS and BAS scales should be conceptualized as separate unidimensional measures, which is consistent with theory behind the original development.
Culex pipiens sperm motility is initiated by a trypsin‐like protease from male accessory glands
Authors: Stephens Kimberly , Cardullo Richard A. , Thaler Catherine D.
Published: March 2018

In most animals, sperm are stored in a quiescent state in the male reproductive tract and only initiate motility when released into either the female reproductive tract, or, in the case of broadcast spawners, the external environment. Male accessory gland secretions transferred into the female reproductive tract may provide factors that modulate sperm viability and storage, or aid in sperm competition, as well as activate sperm motility. In several insects, serine proteases have been implicated in activating sperm motility. Our previous studies have shown that, in Culex quinquefasciatus, either a male accessory gland extract or purified trypsin is sufficient to initiate sperm motility in vitro. The objective of this study was to identify and characterize trypsin‐like enzymes produced in the Culex male accessory glands. Mass spectrometry was used to analyze accessory gland proteins and this preliminary proteomic analysis identified 4 trypsin‐like proteases (trypsin, trypsin4, and two trypsin7 isoforms). When measured with the chromogenic trypsin substrate Na‐benzoyl‐L‐arginine‐ethyl‐ester‐hydrochloride (BAEE), trypsin‐like protease activity in the accessory glands was robust, with a pH optimum of 8. The pH range for the Culex trypsin activity was substantially narrower than a mammalian homologue (porcine pancreatic trypsin). A soybean trypsin inhibitor (SBTI) ‐agarose affinity column was used to independently identify trypsin‐like accessory gland proteins. Several proteins were enriched in the eluate, as detected by silver staining of SDS–PAGE gels. Taken together, these data demonstrate the presence of trypsin‐like activity and several trypsin‐like proteins in the Culex male accessory glands.
Peanut agglutinin specifically binds to a sperm region between the nucleus and mitochondria in tunicates and sea urchins
Authors: Nakazawa Shiori , Shirae‐Kurabayashi Maki , Sawada Hitoshi
Published: March 2018

Peanut agglutinin (PNA) is an established marker of the mammalian acrosome. However, we observed that PNA specifically binds to a unique intracellular structure alongside the nucleus in ascidian sperm. Here, we characterize the PNA‐binding structure in sperm of marine invertebrates. PNA bound to the region between the mitochondrion and nucleus in spermatozoa of ascidians, sea urchins, and an appendicularian. However, PNA‐binding substances were not exposed by the calcium ionophore ionomycin in three ascidian species, indicating that it is a distinct structure from the acrosome. Instead, the ascidian PNA‐binding region was shed with the mitochondrion from the sperm head via an ionomycin‐induced sperm reaction. The ascidian PNA‐binding substance appeared to be solubilized with SDS, but not Triton X–100, describing its detergent resistance. Lectins, PHA‐L4, SSA, and MAL‐I were detected at an area similar to the PNA‐binding region, suggesting that it contains a variety of glycans. The location and some of the components of the PNA‐binding region were similar to known endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐derived structures, although the ER marker concanavalin A accumulated at an area adjacent to but not overlapping the PNA‐binding region. Therefore, we conclude that ascidian sperm possess a non‐acrosomal, Triton‐resistant, glycan‐rich intracellular structure that may play a general role in reproduction of tunicates and sea urchins given its presence across a wide taxonomic range.
Predicting Average Molecular Weights and Branching Level for Self‐Condensing Vinyl Copolymerization in a CSTR
Authors: Buren Bradley D. , Zhao Yutian R. , Puskas Judit E. , McAuley Kimberley B.
Published: March 2018

A continuous stirred‐tank reactor (CSTR) model is developed to produce arborescent polyisobutylene via carbocationic copolymerization of isobutylene and inimer using multidimensional method of moments. The model is used to predict dynamic changes in average branching level (Bkin) and number‐average and weight‐average molecular weights (). Simulations of this self‐condensing vinyl copolymerization (SCVCP) show a tendency toward higher polydispersity and higher Bkin compared to batch reactor simulations conducted using the same recipes and residence times. At high inimer feed concentration and/or long residence time, the model predicts that a CSTR does not reach steady‐state operation due to increasing toward infinity. There is a narrow operating range in which inimer feed concentrations can be adjusted to achieve a desired steady‐state . If SCVCP is to be conducted in a CSTR, it will be important to ensure that residence times and inimer feed concentrations are selected within the stable operating window.
Assessment of MR‐based and quantitative susceptibility mapping for the quantification of liver iron concentration in a mouse model at 7T
Authors: Simchick Gregory , Liu Zhi , Nagy Tamas , Xiong May , Zhao Qun
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To assess the feasibility of quantifying liver iron concentration (LIC) using
and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) at a high field strength of 7 Tesla (T).

Methods

Five different concentrations of Fe‐dextran were injected into 12 mice to produce various degrees of liver iron overload. After mice were sacrificed, blood and liver samples were harvested. Ferritin enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry were performed to quantify serum ferritin concentration and LIC. Multiecho gradient echo MRI was conducted to estimate
and the magnetic susceptibility of each liver sample through complex nonlinear least squares fitting and a morphology enabled dipole inversion method, respectively.

Results

Average estimates of serum ferritin concentration, LIC,
, and susceptibility all show good linear correlations with injected Fe‐dextran concentration; however, the standard deviations in the estimates of
and susceptibility increase with injected Fe‐dextran concentration. Both
and susceptibility measurements also show good linear correlations with LIC (R2 = 0.78 and R2 = 0.91, respectively), and a susceptibility‐to‐LIC conversion factor of 0.829 ppm/(mg/g wet) is derived.

Conclusion

The feasibility of quantifying LIC using MR‐based
and QSM at a high field strength of 7T is demonstrated. Susceptibility quantification, which is an intrinsic property of tissues and benefits from being field‐strength independent, is more robust than
quantification in this ex vivo study. A susceptibility‐to‐LIC conversion factor is presented that agrees relatively well with previously published QSM derived results obtained at 1.5T and 3T.
Single‐shot spiral imaging at 7 T
Authors: Engel Maria , Kasper Lars , Barmet Christoph , Schmid Thomas , Vionnet Laetitia , Wilm Bertram , Pruessmann Klaas P.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to explore the feasibility and performance of single‐shot spiral MRI at 7 T, using an expanded signal model for reconstruction.

Methods

Gradient‐echo brain imaging is performed on a 7 T system using high‐resolution single‐shot spiral readouts and half‐shot spirals that perform dual‐image acquisition after a single excitation. Image reconstruction is based on an expanded signal model including the encoding effects of coil sensitivity, static off‐resonance, and magnetic field dynamics. The latter are recorded concurrently with image acquisition, using NMR field probes. The resulting image resolution is assessed by point spread function analysis.

Results

Single‐shot spiral imaging is achieved at a nominal resolution of 0.8 mm, using spiral‐out readouts of 53‐ms duration. High depiction fidelity is achieved without conspicuous blurring or distortion. Effective resolutions are assessed as 0.8, 0.94, and 0.98 mm in CSF, gray matter and white matter, respectively. High image quality is also achieved with half‐shot acquisition yielding image pairs at 1.5‐mm resolution.

Conclusion

Use of an expanded signal model enables single‐shot spiral imaging at 7 T with unprecedented image quality. Single‐shot and half‐shot spiral readouts deploy the sensitivity benefit of high field for rapid high‐resolution imaging, particularly for functional MRI and arterial spin labeling.
Technique development of 3D dynamic CS‐EPSI for hyperpolarized 13C pyruvate MR molecular imaging of human prostate cancer
Authors: Chen Hsin‐Yu , Larson Peder E.Z. , Gordon Jeremy W. , Bok Robert A. , Ferrone Marcus , van Criekinge Mark , Carvajal Lucas , Cao Peng , Pauly John M. , Kerr Adam B. , Park Ilwoo , Slater James B. , Nelson Sarah J. , Munster Pamela N. , Aggarwal Rahul , Kurhanewicz John , Vigneron Daniel B.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop a new 3D dynamic carbon‐13 compressed sensing echoplanar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) MR sequence and test it in phantoms, animal models, and then in prostate cancer patients to image the metabolic conversion of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate to [1‐13C]lactate with whole gland coverage at high spatial and temporal resolution.

Methods

A 3D dynamic compressed sensing (CS)‐EPSI sequence with spectral–spatial excitation was designed to meet the required spatial coverage, time and spatial resolution, and RF limitations of the 3T MR scanner for its clinical translation for prostate cancer patient imaging. After phantom testing, animal studies were performed in rats and transgenic mice with prostate cancers. For patient studies, a GE SPINlab polarizer (GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI) was used to produce hyperpolarized sterile GMP [1‐13C]pyruvate. 3D dynamic 13C CS‐EPSI data were acquired starting 5 s after injection throughout the gland with a spatial resolution of 0.5 cm3, 18 time frames, 2‐s temporal resolution, and 36 s total acquisition time.

Results

Through preclinical testing, the 3D CS‐EPSI sequence developed in this project was shown to provide the desired spectral, temporal, and spatial 5D HP 13C MR data. In human studies, the 3D dynamic HP CS‐EPSI approach provided first‐ever simultaneously volumetric and dynamic images of the LDH‐catalyzed conversion of [1‐13C]pyruvate to [1‐13C]lactate in a biopsy‐proven prostate cancer patient with full gland coverage.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate the feasibility to characterize prostate cancer metabolism in animals, and now patients using this new 3D dynamic HP MR technique to measure kPL, the kinetic rate constant of [1‐13C]pyruvate to [1‐13C]lactate conversion.
Impact of a fatigue management in work programme on meeting work demands of individuals with rheumatic diseases: A pilot study
Authors: McCormack Róisín C. , O’Shea Finbar , Doran Michele , Connolly Deirdre
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Work disability and job loss are serious consequences of rheumatic diseases (RDs), and fatigue is a symptom of RDs commonly reported to have an impact on work performance. A FAtigue ManagEment in Work (FAME‐W) programme was developed to facilitate the self‐management of fatigue in work. The present pilot study explored if FAME‐W could facilitate individuals with RDs to manage fatigue in work and improve their ability to meet work demands.

Methods

Twenty‐seven individuals with a variety of rheumatic diagnoses completed a 4‐week, 2‐h occupational therapy‐led self‐management programme. Each week focused on fatigue‐related topics, including fatigue and activity management, pain management and joint protection, mental well‐being, effective communication with employers and work colleagues, and employment legislation. Individual workplace ergonomic assessments were also offered. Study measures (work function, fatigue, pain, mood and self‐efficacy) were completed prior to starting FAME‐W, immediately post‐intervention and 12 weeks post‐intervention.

Results

Participants (56% male) had a mean age of 43 years. No significant improvements were observed immediately post‐programme. However, at the 12‐week follow‐up, significant improvements were reported in meeting work demands (scheduling [p = 0.046], output [p = 0.002], physical [p = 0.003], mental [p = 0.016]), fatigue [p = 0.001], pain [p = 0.01], anxiety [p = 0.001], depression [p < 0.001], self‐efficacy [p < 0.001] and Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2‐Short Form (physical: p = 0.005; symptoms: p = 0.010; affect: p = 0.010; social: p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Significant improvements were reported in participants’ ability to meet various demands of their work 3 months post‐FAME‐W. These findings suggest that FAME‐W has the potential to assist individuals with RDs to meet the demands of their work, although further research is required to test the effectiveness of this intervention.
Patients with spondyloarthritis are equally satisfied with follow‐up by physiotherapist and rheumatologist
Authors: Holøyen Pauline Kjelsvik , Stensdotter Ann‐Katrin
Published: March 2018

Objective

International guidelines recommend that patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) have lifelong physiotherapy, as physical activity and exercise are essential for optimizing health throughout the course of the disease. The aim of the present study was to investigate if a physiotherapy‐led outpatient clinic specializing in SpA could provide satisfactory follow‐up as an alternative to standard visits with a rheumatologist (RT). We hypothesized that satisfaction would be similar in patients followed by a physiotherapist (PT) or an RT.

Methods

A total of 68 patients were randomized to follow‐up every fourth month by a PT or RT, for three visits in total. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Leeds Satisfaction Questionnaire (LSQ). Function, mobility and disease activity were rated using the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), Mobility Index (BASMI) and Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS).

Results

Patients were equally satisfied with PT and RT follow‐up at the first (p = 0.062) and last (p = 0.710) visit. At the second visit, the RT group was seen by a nurse, and was more satisfied than the PT group (p = 0.015). Function deteriorated in both the PT (p = 0.014) and RT (p = 0.007) groups. Mobility increased in the PT group (p = 0.020). Disease activity was not affected.

Conclusions

Patients seem to be equally satisfied with either of the follow‐up regimes. The PT‐led follow‐up did not seem to affect the patients' course of disease negatively. The results indicate that it would be safe to implement a PT‐led clinic for patients with SpA in specialist health services, but longer‐term follow‐up is necessary to support the findings of this study.
Fish Community Responses to Submerged Aquatic Vegetation in Maumee Bay, Western Lake Erie
Authors: Miller Jacob W. , Kocovsky Patrick M. , Wiegmann Daniel , Miner Jeffrey G.
Published: March 2018

Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) in clearwater systems simultaneously provides habitat for invertebrate prey and acts as refugia for small fishes. Many fishes in Lake Erie rely on shallow, heavily vegetated bays as spawning grounds and the loss or absence of which is known to reduce recruitment in other systems. The Maumee River and Maumee Bay, which once had abundant macrophyte beds, have experienced a decline of SAV and an increase in suspended solids (turbidity) over the last century due to numerous causes. To compare fish communities in open-water (turbid) and in SAV (clearer water) habitats in this region, which is designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an Area of Concern, and to indicate community changes that could occur with expansion of SAV habitat, we sampled a 300-ha sector of northern Maumee Bay that contained both habitats. Using towed neuston nets through patches of each habitat, we determined that areas of SAV contained more species and a different species complex (based on the Jaccard index and the wetland fish index), than did the open-water habitat (averaging 8.6 versus 5 species per net trawl). The SAV habitat was dominated by centrarchids, namely Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides, Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus, and Black Crappie Pomoxis nigromaculatus. Open-water habitat was dominated by Spottail Shiner Notropis hudsonius, Gizzard Shad Dorosoma cepedianum, and White Perch Morone americana, an invasive species. These results indicate that restoration efforts aimed at decreasing turbidity and increasing the distribution of SAV could cause substantive shifts in the fish community and address important metrics for assessing the beneficial use impairments in this Area of Concern.
Boundary settings for the seismic dynamic response analysis of rock masses using the numerical manifold method
Authors: Yang Yongtao , Guo Hongwei , Fu Xiaodong , Zheng Hong
Published: March 2018

Aiming to accurately simulate seismic dynamic response of rock masses using the numerical manifold method (NMM), boundary settings must be treated carefully. In this paper, 4 issues in boundary settings are investigated to improve the performance of NMM: (1) Nonreflecting boundaries including the viscous boundary and viscoelastic boundary are considered; (2) A free‐field boundary is incorporated into NMM to accurately simulate external source wave motion; (3) A seismic input boundary is considered, and the force input method is introduced; and (4) A static‐dynamic unified boundary is incorporated for the convenience of transforming displacement boundary into other types of boundaries, such as nonreflecting boundaries and seismic input boundary. Several benchmark problems are solved to validate the improved NMM. Simulation results agree well with analytical ones, indicating that the improved NMM is able to simulate seismic dynamic response of rock masses reliably and correctly.
Development of a new patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measure on the Impact of Nighttime Urination (INTU) in patients with nocturia—Psychometric validation
Authors: Bennett Jason B. , Gillard Kristin Khalaf , Banderas Benjamin , Abrams Steven , Cheng Linda , Fein Seymour
Published: March 2018

Aims

To psychometrically evaluate the Impact of Nighttime Urination (INTU) questionnaire, a new patient‐reported outcome measure developed to assess the impact of nocturia on health and functioning in a multicenter, behavioral modification (fluid restriction) study.

Methods

Participants aged 50‐95 years with at least two voiding episodes/night for ≥6 months completed voiding diaries and the INTU on 3 consecutive days during weeks 1 and 2 (same day recall) and completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Nocturia Quality of Life Questionnaire (N‐QOL) at baseline and days 8 and 15. Psychometric evaluations of the INTU were conducted.

Results

Rasch analysis showed the INTU to be a unidimensional construct, with most items located on the severe end of the symptom severity continuum. In addition to an Overall Impact Score (10 items), exploratory factor analysis affirmed by confirmatory factor analysis identified two domains: Daytime (six items) and Nighttime (four items) Impact Scores (comparative fit index = 0.968; root mean square error of approximation = 0.08). Concurrent validity met prespecified hypotheses, indicating similarity of concepts with the PSQI (correlation [r] = 0.627) and N‐QOL (r = −0.784) total scores. The INTU differentiated among patients with different nocturic episode frequencies (P < 0.05 for all three summary scores). Statistically significant decreases were observed in mean Overall and Nighttime Impact Scores at week 2 versus week 1 in responders, indicating that the instrument can detect changes in response to symptom improvements.

Conclusions

The INTU questionnaire demonstrated robust measurement properties and is a suitable tool for assessing the patient‐reported impact of nocturia on health and functioning.
The history of the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine, and Urogenital Reconstruction
Authors: Weissbart Steven J. , Zimmern Philippe E. , Nitti Victor W. , Lemack Gary E. , Kobashi Kathleen C. , Vasavada Sandip P. , Wein Alan J.
Published: March 2018

Aims

To review the history of the Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine and Urogenital Reconstruction (SUFU).

Methods

We reviewed Society meeting minutes, contacted all living former Society presidents, searched the William P. Didusch Center for Urology History records, and asked Society members to share their important Society experiences in order to gather important historical information about the Society.

Results

The Society initially formed as the Urodynamics Society in 1969 in the backdrop of a growing passion for scientific research in the country after World War II ended. Since then, Society meetings have provided a pivotal forum for the advancement of science in lower urinary tract dysfunction. Meetings occurred annually until 2004, when the meeting schedule increased to biannual. The journal, Neurourology and Urodynamics, became the official journal of the Society in 2005. SUFU has authored important guidelines on urodynamics (2012), non‐neurogenic overactive bladder (2012), and stress urinary incontinence (2017) and has shared important collaborations with other societies, including the American Urological Association (AUA), the International Continence Society (ICS), and the International Society of Pelvic Neuromodulation (ISPiN). SUFU has also been instrumental in trainee education and helped to establish formal fellowship training in the field in addition to holding a yearly educational meeting for urology residents. The Society has been led by 21 presidents throughout its history.

Conclusion

Throughout the Society's near half‐century long existence, the Society has fostered research, published guidelines, and educated trainees in order to improve the care of individuals suffering from lower urinary tract dysfunction.
Optimization approaches for civil applications of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or aerial drones: A survey
Authors: Otto Alena , Agatz Niels , Campbell James , Golden Bruce , Pesch Erwin
Published: March 2018

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or aerial drones, are an emerging technology with significant market potential. UAVs may lead to substantial cost savings in, for instance, monitoring of difficult‐to‐access infrastructure, spraying fields and performing surveillance in precision agriculture, as well as in deliveries of packages. In some applications, like disaster management, transport of medical supplies, or environmental monitoring, aerial drones may even help save lives. In this article, we provide a literature survey on optimization approaches to civil applications of UAVs. Our goal is to provide a fast point of entry into the topic for interested researchers and operations planning specialists. We describe the most promising aerial drone applications and outline characteristics of aerial drones relevant to operations planning. In this review of more than 200 articles, we provide insights into widespread and emerging modeling approaches. We conclude by suggesting promising directions for future research.
We need higher education: Voice of nursing administration from Kabul, Afghanistan
Authors: Qarani Wais M. , Jan Rafat , Saeed Khwaja M. I. , Khymani Laila
Published: March 2018

Aim

To explore the educational profile of nursing managers and head nurses at public hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional study design was employed.

Method

A self‐administered pre‐tested questionnaire was used to recruit 86 nursing managers and head nurses from 17 public hospitals in Kabul. SPSS version 19 was used to analyze and report the data through descriptive statistics.

Results

It was found that, none of the participant was prepared with higher education in nursing; rather they had only diploma in nursing; and 84.9% of them had completed their nursing diploma before 2002.; 11.6% of participants were currently studying; and all were in non‐nursing disciplines. On the other hand 100% of the participants expressed intention for further studies mainly in leadership and management, computer skill, English language, in‐service nursing trainings and higher education in nursing.
Prevalence of depressive symptoms in older nursing home residents with intact cognitive function in Taiwan
Authors: Hu Sophia H. , Chuang Yeu‐Hui , Ting Yeh‐Feng , Lin Kuan‐Yu , Hsieh Chia‐Jung
Published: March 2018

The investigators aimed to explore the prevalence of depressive symptoms and associated factors among older residents with intact cognitive function in nursing homes in Taiwan. A cross‐sectional descriptive and correlational research design was used. A convenience sample of 178 older residents without cognitive impairment was recruited from 36 nursing homes in Southern Taiwan. The questionnaires included demographic data; the Barthel Index, which assesses the ability to perform activities of daily living; and the Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form. Among older residents in nursing homes with intact cognitive function, 39.3% had depressive symptoms. Age, religion, previous living status, previous working status, being totally dependent in physical function, and being severely dependent in physical function were significant predictors of depressive symptoms among cognitively intact older residents. The findings highlight the critical mental healthcare issues among older residents with intact cognitive function in nursing homes. Practical strategies for preventing the occurrence of depressive symptoms and caring for those who have depressive symptoms should be developed, especially for younger or dependent older residents or residents who have never been employed, have no religious beliefs, or have lived alone before they moved into an institution.
Effects of Short‐Term Normobaric Hypoxic Walking Training on Energetics and Mechanics of Gait in Adults with Obesity
Authors: Fernández Menéndez Aitor , Saudan Gilles , Sperisen Ludovic , Hans Didier , Saubade Mathieu , Millet Grégoire P. , Malatesta Davide
Published: March 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of short‐term hypoxic versus normoxic training at preferred walking speed (PWS) on energetics, mechanics, efficiency, and metabolic risk markers in individuals with obesity.

Methods

Twenty‐three subjects with obesity performed nine 1‐hour sessions at PWS under hypoxia (3,000 m, n = 12; BMI: 34.0 ± 0.8 kg/m2) or normoxia (360 m, n = 11; BMI: 32.9 ± 0.8 kg/m2). Participants performed six 5‐minute walking trials at different speeds (PWS, 0.56, 0.83, 1.11, 1.39, and 1.67 m/s). The net energy cost, external mechanical work, and rated perceived exertion (RPE) were measured at these speeds. Body composition and blood samples were collected.

Results

PWS tended to be slower under hypoxia than normoxia (−6.7%; P = 0.092) during the training, and this difference reached significance the third week (−8.9%; P = 0.05). After training, PWS significantly increased (+ 8.2%; P ≤ 0.001), while RPE decreased (P = 0.005). Ankle range of motion (P = 0.03) and vertical displacement of the center of mass (P = 0.02) significantly increased in both groups.

Conclusions

A walking training program under hypoxia at slower PWS than in normoxia elicited similar responses in metabolic risk factors, energetics, and mechanics of walking in individuals with obesity. Both programs increased PWS, decreased RPE, and induced gait‐pattern adaptations, which protected against orthopedic injury in these individuals.
A Mathematical Model for Predicting Obesity Transmission with Both Genetic and Nongenetic Heredity
Authors: Ejima Keisuke , Thomas Diana M. , Allison David B.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Obesity is transmissible across generations through both genetic and nongenetic routes, but distinguishing between these factors is challenging. This study aimed to quantitatively examine the contribution of these genetic and nongenetic effects to assess their influence on obesity prevalence.

Methods

A mathematical model was proposed that incorporated both the genetic and nongenetic effects of obesity. Model parameters were estimated by using observational data. Model simulations were used to assess the sensitivity of model parameters. To strengthen the study's approach, parameter estimation and simulation using data from the United Kingdom were also performed.

Results

Individuals homozygous for a “hypothetical obesogenic gene” were suggested to be more susceptible to both socially contagious risk and spontaneous weight gain risk. The model predicted that obesity prevalence would reach 41.03% (39.28, 44.31) and 26.77% (25.62, 28.06) at 2030 in the United States and United Kingdom, respectively. The socially contagious risk factor had a greater overall impact on the distribution of the population with obesity than did spontaneous weight gain risk or mother‐to‐child obesity transmission risk.

Conclusions

Although the proposed “first approximation” model captured the complex interactions between the genetic and nongenetic effects on obesity, this framework remains incomplete. Future work should incorporate other key features driving the obesity epidemic.
Branched Chain Amino Acids, Androgen Hormones, and Metabolic Risk Across Early Adolescence: A Prospective Study in Project Viva
Authors: Perng Wei , Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl L. , Hivert Marie‐France , Chavarro Jorge E. , Oken Emily
Published: March 2018

Objective

This study aimed to examine the associations of two obesity‐related metabolite patterns with changes in metabolic biomarkers during early adolescence.

Methods

Multivariable linear regression was used to examine associations of branched chain amino acid (BCAA) and androgen hormone patterns with changes in glycemia (fasting glucose, insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance), adipokines (leptin, adiponectin), inflammation (C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐6), lipid profile, and blood pressure during ∼5 years of follow‐up among 213 children aged 6 to 10 years at baseline. Covariates included baseline age, pubertal status, biomarker level, and BMI percentile, and age at follow‐up. Interactions with sex and baseline BMI percentile were also considered.

Results

The median age at baseline was 7.7 years; 48.8% were boys. In adjusted models, each 1 unit of the BCAA pattern corresponded with a 4.82 (95% CI: 0.92 to 8.71) mg/dL decrease in fasting glucose in boys. In girls, the BCAA pattern was associated with an increase in triglycerides (4.17 [0.03 to 8.32] mg/dL). The androgen pattern was associated with decreased leptin (−2.35 [−4.34 to −0.35] ng/dL) and increased C‐reactive protein (0.28 [0.03 to 0.54] mg/dL) in girls. These relationships did not differ by baseline BMI percentile.

Conclusions

The BCAA and androgen hormone metabolite patterns are related to changes in metabolic parameters in a sex‐specific manner during early adolescence.
Trend‐Analysis of Solid‐State Structures: Low‐Energy Conformational ‘Reactions’ Involving Directed and Coupled Movements in Half‐Sandwich Compounds [CpFe(CO){C(=O)R}PPh3]
Authors: Brunner Henri , Tsuno Takashi
Published: March 2018

Trends in solid‐state structures were used to identify preferred intramolecular movements in half‐sandwich compounds [CpFe(CO){C(=O)R}PPh3]. Three weak interactions were analyzed: 1) the CH/π donor–acceptor interaction of phenyl rings in the PPh3 ligand, 2) the PhPPh3 face‐on Cp stabilization, and 3) the hydrogen bond between the oxygen atom of the acyl group and an ortho‐C−H bond of one of the PPh3 phenyl rings. Clockwise and counter‐clockwise rotations established directed and coupled movements of the PPh3 ligand, the acyl group, and the phenyl rings within the PPh3 ligand.
Persulfate Reaction in a Hair‐Bleaching Formula: Unveiling the Unconventional Reactivity of 1,13‐Diamino‐4,7,10‐Trioxatridecane
Authors: Gargano Emanuele M. , Mangiatordi Giuseppe F. , Weber Ingo , Goebel Carsten , Alberga Domenico , Nicolotti Orazio , Ruess Wolfgang , Wierlacher Stefan
Published: March 2018

The stability and unconventional reactivity of 1,13‐diamino‐4,7,10‐trioxatridecane in the presence of NH3, H2O2, and (NH4)2S2O8 are described. The ether‐diamine is an ingredient marketed to hair salons and consumers for so‐called “plex” services to compensate for hair damage during bleaching. The main reaction product identified is an unexpected azanyl ester derivative. This is considered relevant for the safety evaluation when used in cosmetic products. The mechanism of reaction was explored through DFT calculations. This study represents the first attempt to assess the stability of a plex active in an oxidative environment.
FOXO1 regulates VEGFA expression and promotes angiogenesis in healing wounds
Authors: Jeon Hyeran Helen , Yu Quan , Lu Yongjian , Spencer Evelyn , Lu Chanyi , Milovanova Tatyana , Yang Yang , Zhang Chenying , Stepanchenko Olga , Vafa Rameen P , Coelho Paulo G , Graves Dana T
Published: March 2018

Angiogenesis is a critical aspect of wound healing. We investigated the role of keratinocytes in promoting angiogenesis in mice with lineage‐specific deletion of the transcription factor FOXO1. The results indicate that keratinocyte‐specific deletion of Foxo1 reduces VEGFA expression in mucosal and skin wounds and leads to reduced endothelial cell proliferation, reduced angiogenesis, and impaired re‐epithelialization and granulation tissue formation. In vitro FOXO1 was needed for VEGFA transcription and expression. In a porcine dermal wound‐healing model that closely resembles healing in humans, local application of a FOXO1 inhibitor reduced angiogenesis. This is the first report that FOXO1 directly regulates VEGFA expression and that FOXO1 is needed for normal angiogenesis during wound healing. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resident alveolar macrophages are master regulators of arrested alveolarization in experimental bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Kalymbetova Tatiana V , Selvakumar Balachandar , Rodríguez‐Castillo José Alberto , Gunjak Miša , Malainou Christina , Heindl Miriam Ruth , Moiseenko Alena , Chao Cho‐Ming , Vadász István , Mayer Konstantin , Lohmeyer Jürgen , Bellusci Saverio , Böttcher‐Friebertshäuser Eva , Seeger Werner , Herold Susanne , Morty Rory E
Published: March 2018

Trophic functions for macrophages are emerging as key mediators of developmental processes, including bone, vessel, and mammary gland development. Yolk sac‐derived macrophages mature in the distal lung shortly after birth. Myeloid‐lineage macrophages are recruited to the lung and are activated under pathological conditions. These pathological conditions include bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a common complication of preterm birth characterized by stunted lung development, where the formation of alveoli is blocked. No study has addressed causal roles for immune cells in lung alveolarization. We employed antibody‐based and transgenic death receptor‐based depletion approaches to deplete or prevent lung recruitment of immune cell populations in a hyperoxia‐based mouse model of BPD. Neither neutrophils nor exudate macrophages (which might include lung interstitial macrophages) contributed to structural perturbations to the lung that were provoked by hyperoxia; however, cells of the Csf1r‐expressing monocyte/macrophage lineage were implicated as causal mediators of stunted lung development. We propose that resident alveolar macrophages differentiate into a population of CD45+ CD11c+ SiglecF+ CD11b+ CD68+ MHCII+ cells, which are activated by hyperoxia, and contribute to disturbances to the structural development of the immature lung. This is the first report that causally implicates immune cells in pathological disturbances to postnatal lung organogenesis. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advances in polyamide nanocomposites: A review
Authors: Francisco Danae L. , Paiva Lucilene B. , Aldeia Wagner
Published: March 2018

The present review highlights the effect of different types of nanoparticles/nanotubes/nanolayers in polyamide nanocomposite properties. Polyamides belong to an important class of engineering polymers due to their interesting properties, such as temperature stability, good chemical resistance, relatively high tensile strength and stiffness. The availability of different types of nanoparticles and its functionalization, besides the improved knowledge on the integration with the polyamide matrix, has opened possibilities for developing new fields of applications and products. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:851–870, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical stability and biodegradability balance of wood fiber reinforced soybean protein composites
Authors: Zhang Yuehong , Fan Bo , Zhang Binghan , Zhang Leipeng , Gao Zhenhua , Gu Jiyou
Published: March 2018

In this article, a series of green composites were fabricated using thermal‐acid modified soybean protein and wood flour in the presence of various crosslinkers, including glyoxal, polyisocyanate, glyoxal‐polyisocyanate combination, epoxy latex, and modified polyamide. The mechanical stabilities (mechanical properties and water resistance) of the wood fiber reinforced soybean protein composites were evaluated. Moreover, the biodegradation behaviors of the composites under 16 weeks of natural soil burial conditions were systematically investigated in terms of weight loss, tensile strength loss, and surface morphology change. The mechanical stabilities improvement mechanism and natural soil burial degradation characteristics of the composites were proposed, revealing the balance of mechanical stability and biodegradability of wood fiber reinforced soybean protein composites can be achieved via tailoring protein‐crosslinker‐protein and protein‐crosslinker‐wood chemical linkages to proper chemical crosslinking efficiency. Among the five evaluated crosslinkers, modified polyamide prepared composites exhibited the best mechanical stability with dry state tensile strength of 32.77 MPa and accelerated aging tensile strength of 19.61 MPa, and an acceptable biodegradation rate with a weight loss of 29.28% after degradation for 16 weeks. Overall, this study provides a promising way to prepare soybean protein‐based biocomposites for short‐term disposal or long‐term duration applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1228–1238, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Controllable preparation of polyamide 12@SiO2 composite powders
Authors: Wang Xinhua , Jiao Qingze , Gao Meimei , Feng Caihong , Li Hansheng , Zhao Yun , Xiang Aimin
Published: March 2018

Polyamide 12 (PA12)‐coated SiO2 composite powders were prepared by a dissolution–precipitation method using a mixture of methanol and ethanol as the solvent. The sizes and morphologies of the as‐obtained composite powders were determined and observed using a laser particle size analyzer and a scanning electron microscope. The effects of SiO2 content on the sizes and the thermal properties of PA12@SiO2 composite powders were studied. The results show that the introduction of SiO2 decreases the size of the composite powders. With increasing content of SiO2 to 9.1 wt%, the d (0.5) of the PA12 powders decreases from 94.2 to 56.2 μm. SiO2 promotes the heterogeneous nucleation of PA12, and the size of the composite powders can be tuned by changing the amount of the SiO2. In addition, SiO2 particles increase the melting and crystallization temperatures and the crystallization rate of PA12. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1251–1257, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Comparison between the mechanical properties of carbon/epoxy laminates manufactured by autoclave and pressurized prepreg
Authors: Wiggers Hellen , Ferro Orestes , Sales Rita de Cássia Mendonça , Donadon Mauricio Vicente
Published: March 2018

An experimental study on mechanical properties, such as strength, elastic modulus and interlaminar fracture toughness of two different manufacturing processes namely autoclave vacuum bagging (AP) and resin liquid Pressurized Prepreg (PP) is outlined in this article. AP is a technique employed to create mechanical pressure on a laminate during its cure cycle. This process have for years enabled aerospace industry to maximize the physical properties of advanced composite materials. The resin liquid PP is an out‐of‐autoclave process in which prepregs are laid up onto a closed‐mold, liquid resin is injected to pressurize the laminate in order to exert the hydrostatic pressure required to consolidate the preform and eliminate any gas bubbles that may form during the setting of the resin and the cure is performed into a heated press. The experimental results indicated that laminates manufactured by the PP process exhibited an overall inferior mechanical performance when compared with the laminates obtained using the AP process. The reduction in the mechanical properties may be explained by the non‐homogeneous resin perculation, interfacial mixing of two types of resins, higher thickness and, consequently, higher resin content of the PP laminates. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2562–E2572, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Application of noninvasive prenatal testing in pregnancies with fetal double bubble sign: Is it feasible?
Authors: Huang Lv‐Yin , Zhen Li , Pan Min , Han Jin , Yang Xin , Li Dong‐Zhi
Published: March 2018

What's already known about this topic?

The double bubble sign is strongly indicative of duodenal obstruction.

Patients with duodenal obstruction are high risk of other anomalies, especially trisomy 21.

What does this study add?

A much lower percentage of associated malformations in fetuses with double bubble was found.

No other chromosomal anomalies or submicroscopic pathogenic aberrations excepting trisomy 21 were found in fetuses with double bubble.

Noninvasive prenatal testing may be recommended for genetic evaluation of the etiology of fetal double bubble.
Evaluation of the fetal palate at 11 to 13 (+6) weeks of gestation based on an analysis of static ultrasound images using modern IT techniques
Authors: Wójtowicz Anna , Wójtowicz Wojciech , Jurek Janusz , Huras Hubert
Published: March 2018

Objective

To describe a new computer‐based technique to isolate the shape of the fetal palate visible in the midsagittal plane from static ultrasound images routinely used to measure nuchal translucency.

Method

This is a retrospective interpretation of images of the midsagittal view of the fetal face at 11 to 13 (+6) weeks of gestation in 7 cases of cleft lip and palate (CLP) and 7 normal controls. The images were subjected to pattern analysis.

Results

Proprietary software was applied and for each CLP case, and palatine bones with different forms from those of fetuses in the control group were recorded. In 4 cases, an image of a continuous palatine bone was observed at a threshold of 180, whereas the remaining 3 images were obtained at 128. A continuous palatine bone structure was not observed in any fetus from the CLP group, even at a level of 128, when the surrounding structures were visible.

Conclusion

The application of pattern analysis to a 2D frozen image is a new approach for prenatal diagnostics. This technique may be a helpful tool for physicians and could assist in the diagnosis of cleft palate.
Prenatal diagnosis of a fetus with Proteus syndrome
Authors: Fogarty Lauren , Currie Lauren , Skidmore David , Oviedo Angelica , Sinha Namita , Coolen Jillian
Published: March 2018

What's already known about the topic?

Proteus syndrome is a rare condition characterized by mosaic overgrowth of tissue types derived from all 3 germ layers. It has a highly variable presentation and is generally diagnosed by clinical criteria after birth.

What does this study add?

This case describes the ultrasound and autopsy findings of a rare presentation of a fetus with AKT1‐related Proteus syndrome.

It demonstrates many systemic and neurologic findings of Proteus syndrome in a fetus that have not been reported in the literature.

Prenatal diagnosis of mutant AKT1‐related Proteus syndrome by antenatal ultrasound is possible and may present without obvious segmentation in a severe phenotype.