bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In chemico skin sensitization risk assessment of botanical ingredients
Authors: Avonto Cristina , Chittiboyina Amar G. , Sadrieh Nakissa , Vukmanovic Stanislav , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: March 2018

Skin sensitization risk assessment of botanical ingredients is necessary for consumers' protection and occupational hazard identification. There are currently very few available alternative methods that can assist in the evaluation of complex mixtures. Chemical methods can provide essential information in a timely manner and thus help to reduce the need for in vivo testing, and they can complement and facilitate targeted in vitro assays. In the present work, the applicability of the high‐throughput screening with dansyl cysteamine (DCYA) method for the systematic evaluation of skin sensitization of complex botanicals was explored. Botanical ingredients of four unrelated plant species were obtained and tested with the high‐throughput fluorescence method at three concentrations. To illustrate the minimal matrix effects of the tested extracts on the developed method, the least DCYA‐reactive extract (Rosa canina) was spiked with known sensitizers at different concentrations. The data obtained from the four plant extracts and the spiking experiments with known sensitizers, suggest that the high‐throughput screening–DCYA method can be successfully applied for estimating the skin sensitization potential of complex botanical matrices. This is the first report of an attempt to develop a versatile in chemico method for the rapid detection of reactive skin sensitizers in complex botanical extracts, which could complement the battery of existing validated, non‐animal methods.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate partially restored redox homeostasis in arsenite‐stressed keratinocytes
Authors: Sarkar Nivedita , Sinha Dona
Published: March 2018

Arsenite (AsIII) is known for inducing severe oxidative stress and skin carcinogenesis. Contrastingly, phytochemical, epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) combats toxic insults. Our study focused on the effect of EGCG on redox status of AsIII‐stressed normal human keratinocytes, HaCaT cells. EGCG (50 μm) increased the cell viability by 29% in AsIII (50 μm) insulted HaCaT cells but exhibited pro‐oxidant activity by elevated expression of the oxidative stress markers. EGCG was effective not only in reducing AsIII‐induced nuclear expression of Nrf2 and Nrf2Ser40 but also in increasing nuclear expression of Keap1 both at protein and mRNA level. EGCG did not have similar effects on all Nrf2 downstream targets. EGCG elevated expression of HO‐1 and γ‐GCL,showed no change in MRP1 but decreased superoxide dismutase, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone 1 and glutathione S transferase activity in AsIII‐treated HaCaT cells. EGCG along with AsIII caused decreased phosphorylation of Nrf2 at ser40 residue, which might have facilitated Keap1‐mediated nuclear export and degradation of Nrf2 and paved the pro‐survival signal for AsIII‐insulted HaCaT cells. In conclusion, it might be indicated that EGCG in spite of inducing the pro‐oxidant effect was effective in increasing the viability of AsIII‐treated HaCaT cells by partially restoring the Nrf2/Keap1‐mediated signaling axis.
Label‐free quantitative chemical imaging and classification analysis of adipogenesis using mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Masia Francesco , Glen Adam , Stephens Phil , Langbein Wolfgang , Borri Paola
Published: March 2018

Stem cells have received much attention recently for their potential utility in regenerative medicine. The identification of their differentiated progeny often requires complex staining procedures, and is challenging for intermediary stages which are a priori unknown. In this work, the ability of label‐free quantitative coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) micro‐spectroscopy to identify populations of intermediate cell states during the differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells into adipocytes is assessed. Cells were imaged at different days of differentiation by hyperspectral CARS, and images were analysed with an unsupervised factorization algorithm providing Raman‐like spectra and spatially resolved maps of chemical components. Chemical decomposition combined with a statistical analysis of their spatial distributions provided a set of parameters that were used for classification analysis. The first 2 principal components of these parameters indicated 3 main groups, attributed to undifferentiated cells, cells differentiated into committed white pre‐adipocytes, and differentiating cells exhibiting a distinct protein globular structure with adjacent lipid droplets. An unsupervised classification methodology was developed, separating undifferentiated cell from cells in other stages, using a novel method to estimate the optimal number of clusters. The proposed unsupervised classification pipeline of hyperspectral CARS data offers a promising new tool for automated cell sorting in lineage analysis.
On the role of interference in laser‐based mid‐infrared widefield microspectroscopy
Authors: Schönhals Arthur , Kröger‐Lui Niels , Pucci Annemarie , Petrich Wolfgang
Published: March 2018

A laser's high degree of coherence leads to interferences, which—in the absence of precautions—can cause severe image distortions such as fringes and speckles and which thereby strongly hamper a meaningful interpretation of hyperspectral images in laser‐based widefield microspectroscopy. While images and spectra of homogenous samples may already suffer from interferences, any structured object such as a tissue thin section will add to these distortions due to wavelength‐ and, in particular, sample‐dependent phase shifts (structure sizes, absorption coefficients, refractive indices). This effect is devastating for the universal applicability of laser‐based microspectroscopy especially in the mid‐infrared (MIR), where cell sizes are of the same dimension as the wavelength of the illumination source. Here, we show that the impact of interferences is strongly mitigated by reducing the time‐averaged spatiotemporal coherence properties of the illumination using a moving plus a stationary scatterer. In this case, the illumination path provides a pseudothermal radiation source and spatially resolved spectra can be obtained at the quality of the reference method, that is, Fourier‐transform infrared microspectroscopy, without compromising spectral or spatial resolution.
Biomimetic design of bone substitutes based on cuttlefish bone‐derived hydroxyapatite and biodegradable polymers
Authors: Rogina Anamarija , Antunović Maja , Milovac Dajana
Published: March 2018

Being a major component of bone tissue, hydroxyapatite is the most investigated calcium phosphate in the design and development of bone implants. The high brittleness and poor load‐bearing properties have led researchers to manipulate hydroxyapatite performance by applying polymer or metal materials. The present study focuses on biomimetic approach of the hydroxyapatite synthesis from the cuttlefish bone in order to preserve highly porous structure. The low stiffness of hydroxyapatite scaffold was altered by thin polycaprolactone/poly(lactic acid) coating, resulting in remarkably 18‐fold increase of Young's modulus. The mechanical test revealed that poly(lactic acid) increases the stiffness of composite scaffolds which depends on the polycaprolactone/poly(lactic acid) volume ratio. The composite scaffolds are bioactive supporting the deposition of new calcium phosphates when incubated in simulated physiological medium for 21 days. Moreover, the culture of human embryonic kidney cells indicated non‐cytotoxicity of the composite scaffolds with emphasis on the cell proliferation during three days of culture. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 107B: 197–204, 2019.
FRAME Study: The Foundation Effect of Building Bone With 1 Year of Romosozumab Leads to Continued Lower Fracture Risk After Transition to Denosumab
Authors: Cosman Felicia , Crittenden Daria B , Ferrari Serge , Khan Aliya , Lane Nancy E , Lippuner Kurt , Matsumoto Toshio , Milmont Cassandra E , Libanati Cesar , Grauer Andreas
Published: March 2018

Romosozumab is a bone-forming agent with a dual effect of increasing bone formation and decreasing bone resorption. In FRActure study in postmenopausal woMen with ostEoporosis (FRAME), postmenopausal women with osteoporosis received romosozumab 210 mg s.c. or placebo once monthly for 12 months, followed by denosumab 60 mg s.c. once every 6 months in both groups for 12 months. One year of romosozumab increased spine and hip BMD by 13% and 7%, respectively, and reduced vertebral and clinical fractures with persistent fracture risk reduction upon transition to denosumab over 24 months. Here, we further characterize the BMD gains with romosozumab by quantifying the percentages of patients who responded at varying magnitudes; report the mean T-score changes from baseline over the 2-year study and contrast these results with the long-term BMD gains seen with denosumab during Fracture REduction Evaluation of Denosumab in Osteoporosis every 6 Months (FREEDOM) and its Extension studies; and assess fracture incidence rates in year 2, when all patients received denosumab. Among 7180 patients (n = 3591 placebo, n = 3589 romosozumab), most romosozumab-treated patients experienced ≥3% gains in BMD from baseline at month 12 (spine, 96%; hip, 78%) compared with placebo (spine, 22%; hip, 16%). For romosozumab patients, mean absolute T-score increases at the spine and hip were 0.88 and 0.32, respectively, at 12 months (placebo: 0.03 and 0.01) and 1.11 and 0.45 at 24 months (placebo-to-denosumab: 0.38 and 0.17), with the 2-year gains approximating the effect of 7 years of continuous denosumab administration. Patients receiving romosozumab versus placebo in year 1 had significantly fewer vertebral fractures in year 2 (81% relative reduction; p < 0.001), with fewer fractures consistently observed across other fracture categories. The data support the clinical benefit of rebuilding the skeletal foundation with romosozumab before transitioning to antiresorptive therapy. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Maintenance of Serum Ionized Calcium During Exercise Attenuates Parathyroid Hormone and Bone Resorption Responses
Authors: Kohrt Wendy M , Wherry Sarah J , Wolfe Pamela , Sherk Vanessa D , Wellington Toby , Swanson Christine M , Weaver Connie M , Boxer Rebecca S
Published: March 2018

Exercise can cause a decrease in serum ionized calcium (iCa) and increases in parathyroid hormone (PTH) and bone resorption. We used a novel intravenous iCa clamp technique to determine whether preventing a decline in serum iCa during exercise prevents increases in PTH and carboxy-terminal collagen crosslinks (CTX). Eleven cycling-trained men (aged 18 to 45 years) underwent two identical 60-min cycling bouts with infusion of Ca gluconate or saline. Blood sampling for iCa, total calcium (tCa), PTH, CTX, and procollagen type 1 amino-terminal propeptide (P1NP) occurred before, during, and for 4 hours after exercise; results are presented as unadjusted and adjusted for plasma volume shifts (denoted with subscript ADJ). iCa decreased during exercise with saline infusion (p = 0.01 at 60 min) and this was prevented by Ca infusion (interaction, p < 0.007); there were abrupt decreases in Ca content (iCaADJ and tCaADJ) in the first 15 min of exercise under both conditions. PTH and CTX were increased at the end of exercise (both p < 0.01) on the saline day, and markedly attenuated (–65% and –71%; both p < 0.001) by Ca. CTX remained elevated for 4 hours after exercise on the saline day (p < 0.001), despite the return of PTH to baseline by 1 hour after exercise. P1NP increased in response to exercise (p < 0.001), with no difference between conditions, but the increase in P1NPADJ was not significant. Results for PTHADJ and CTXADJ were similar to unadjusted results. These findings demonstrate that bone resorption is stimulated early in exercise to defend serum iCa. Vascular Ca content decreased early in exercise, but neither the reason why this occurred, nor the fate of Ca, are known. The results suggest that the exercise-induced increase in PTH had an acute catabolic effect on bone. Future research should determine whether the increase in PTH generates an anabolic response that occurs more than 4 hours after exercise. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
High Imminent Vertebral Fracture Risk in Subjects With COPD With a Prevalent or Incident Vertebral Fracture
Authors: van Dort Mayke J , Geusens Piet , Driessen Johanna HM , Romme Elisabeth APM , Smeenk Frank WJM , Wouters Emiel FM , van den Bergh Joop PW
Published: March 2018

Subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have an increased risk of vertebral fractures (VFs); however, VF incidence is largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of our study was to determine the incidence of new and/or worsening VF in subjects with COPD. Smokers and subjects with COPD (GOLD II–IV) from the ECLIPSE study with complete set of chest CT scans (baseline and 1- and 3-year follow-up) to evaluate vertebrae T1 down to L1 were included. If a VF was diagnosed on the last scan, detailed VF assessment of the previous scans was performed. VFs were scored according to the method of Genant as mild, moderate, or severe. Main outcome measure was the cumulative incidence of new and/or worsening VF at subject level, within 1 and 3 years. Of 1239 subjects (mean age 61 years, 757 males [61%], 999 subjects with COPD), 253 (20.5%) had ≥1 prevalent VF. The cumulative incidence of VFs was 10.1% within 1 year and 24.0% within 3 years. After adjustment for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), pack-years, and smoking status, prevalence and incidence were similar between smokers and COPD GOLD stages. Within 1 year, 29.2% of the subjects with a prevalent VF had an incident VF, compared with 5.1% in absence of prevalent VF (hazard ratio [HR] = 5.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.6–7.4) and 58.5% versus 15.0% within 3 years (HR = 3.6; 95% CI 2.9–4.6). The incidence of VF was higher with increasing number and severity of prevalent VFs. Among subjects having an incident VF within the first year, 57.3% had a subsequent VF within the next 2 years. In this study, more than half of the smokers and subjects with COPD with a prevalent VF or an incident VF within the first year sustained a subsequent VF within 3 years. The 3-year risk was even higher in the presence of multiple or severe prevalent VFs. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
The effects of galectin‐3 depletion apheresis on induced skin inflammation in a porcine model
Authors: Navarro‐Alvarez Nalu , Goncalves Beatriz , Andrews Alec R , Wang Zhaohui , Wang Zhirui , Harrington Edward , Shah Jigesh , Sachs David H. , Eliaz Isaac , Huang Christene A.
Published: March 2018

Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3), a β‐galactoside‐binding lectin that is expressed in mammalian cells, is known to modulate several biological functions such as cell‐cell adhesion, macrophage activation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and fibrosis. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ability of Gal‐3 depletion apheresis using an adsorption column with immobilized anti‐Gal‐3‐antibody to reduce inflammation induced by Complete Freund's Adjuvant injection in a skin inflammation porcine model. Here, we report that plasma perfusion by apheresis through a Gal‐3 binding immuno‐affinity column reduces plasma Gal‐3 levels to below limits of quantitative detection, and results in significant decrease in skin inflammation, including degree and duration of inflammatory lesions. Human plasma was tested ex vivo and found to be efficiently depleted using the anti‐Gal‐3 affinity column. This study demonstrates the potential of Gal‐3 depletion apheresis as a therapeutic method for inflammation‐mediated disease, supporting continued research in this area for clinical application.
Simulations of optically switchable molecular machines for particle transport
Authors: Raeker Tim , Jansen Björn , Behrens Dominik , Hartke Bernd
Published: March 2018

A promising application for design and deployment of molecular machines is nanoscale transport, driven by artificial cilia. In this contribution, we present several further steps toward this goal, beyond our first‐generation artificial cilium (Raeker et al., J. Phys. Chem. A 2012, 116, 11241). Promising new azobenzene‐derivatives were tested for use as cilium motors. Using a QM/MM partitioning in on‐the‐fly photodynamics, excited‐state surface‐hopping trajectories were calculated for each isomerization direction and each motor version. The methods used were reparametrized semiempirical quantum chemistry together with floating‐occupation configuration interaction as the QM part and the OPLSAA‐L forcefield as MM part. In addition, we simulated actual particle transport by a single cilium attached to a model surface, with varying attachment strengths and modes, and with transport targets ranging from single atoms to multi‐molecule arrangements. Our results provide valuable design guidelines for cilia‐driven nanoscale transport and emphasize the need to carefully select the whole setup (not just the cilium itself, but also its surface attachment and the dynamic cilium‐target interaction) to achieve true transport. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An electromembrane extraction–HPLC‐UV analysis for the determination of valproic acid in human plasma
Authors: Yaripour Saeid , Zaheri Mohammadreza , Mohammadi Ali
Published: March 2018

In this study, an electromembrane extraction (EME) method combined with a simple HPLC‐UV analysis was developed and validated for the determination of valproic acid in human plasma samples. The major parameters influencing EME procedure, namely the solvent composition, voltage, pH of acceptor and donor solutions, salt effect, and time of extraction, were evaluated and optimized. The drug was extracted from the donor aqueous sample solution (pH 5) to the acceptor aqueous solution (pH 13). The donor and acceptor phases were separated by a hollow fiber dipped in 1‐octanol as a supported liquid membrane. A voltage of 60 V during 25 min was applied as the driving force. The drug concentration enrichment factor obtained was >125, which enhanced the sensitivity of the method. The limit of detection and the limit of quantitation were 0.2 and 0.5 μg/mL, respectively. The proposed method was successfully applied to a human plasma sample, with a relative recovery of 75%. The method was linear over the range 0.5–10 μg/mL for valproic acid (R2 > 0.9996) with a repeatability (%RSD) between 0.9 and 3.3% (n = 3). Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant drug with poor UV absorption, and EME can improve the sensitivity of HPLC‐UV for the determination of valproic acid in plasma samples.
Applications of iron and nickel immobilized on hydroxyapatite‐core‐shell γ‐Fe2O3 as a nanomagnetic catalyst for the chemoselective oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides under solvent‐free conditions
Authors: Sajjadifar Sami , Rezayati Sobhan , Arzehgar Zeinab , Abbaspour Sima , Torabi Jafroudi Mogharab
Published: March 2018

In the present study, Fe2+ and Ni2+ immobilized on hydroxyapatite‐core‐shell γ‐Fe2O3 (γ‐Fe2O3@HAp‐Fe2+ and γ‐Fe2O3@HAp‐Ni2+) with a high surface area has been synthesized and characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) techniques. Then, γ‐Fe2O3@HAp‐Fe2+ and γ‐Fe2O3@HAp‐Ni2+ were used as a new and magnetically recoverable nano catalyst for the selective oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides with 33% aqueous H2O2 (0.5 mL) as an oxidant at room temperature in good to excellent yields and short reaction time. Nontoxicity of reagent, mild reaction condition, inexpensive and high catalytic activity, simple experimental procedure, short period of conversion and excellent yields, and ease of recovery from the reaction mixture using an external magnet are the advantages of the present method.
Reference intervals for plasma cystatin C and plasma creatinine in adults using methods traceable to international calibrators and reference methods
Authors: Erlandsen Erland Jørn , Randers Else
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The aim of this study was to establish reference intervals for plasma cystatin C and creatinine in adults using the Gentians cystatin C method traceable to the international calibrator standard ERM‐DA471/IFCC and a creatinine method traceable to the IDMS (Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry) creatinine reference method.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 304 healthy blood donors (152 men and 152 women between 17 and 66 years old) with 30‐31 men and 30‐31 women in each ten‐year interval. Plasma cystatin C was analyzed using the Gentian Cystatin C assay on a Roche cobas c702 analyzer, and plasma creatinine was analyzed using the CREA Plus assay on the Roche Modular P analyzer.

Results

The nonparametric reference intervals for plasma cystatin C were 0.58‐1.00 mg/L in women (median 0.78 mg/L, range 0.56‐1.06 mg/L) and 0.62‐1.04 mg/L in men (median 0.79 mg/L, range 0.61‐1.07 mg/L). The Mann‐Whitney U test revealed no gender‐related difference in plasma cystatin C (P = .21). A common reference interval in women and men was calculated to be 0.61‐1.01 mg/L (median 0.79 mg/L, range 0.56‐1.07 mg/L). The nonparametric reference interval for plasma creatinine was 52‐89 μmol/L in women (median 69 μmol/L, range 52‐92 μmol/L) and 61‐108 μmol/L in men (median 86 μmol/L, range 56‐118 μmol/L). The Mann‐Whitney U test revealed a gender‐related difference in plasma creatinine (P < .0001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have established reference intervals for plasma cystatin C and creatinine in adults using methods traceable to international standards.
Mental health problems among clinical psychologists: Stigma and its impact on disclosure and help‐seeking
Authors: Tay Stacie , Alcock Kat , Scior Katrina
Published: March 2018

Objective(s)

To assess the prevalence of personal experiences of mental health problems among clinical psychologists, external, perceived, and self‐stigma among them, and stigma‐related concerns relating to disclosure and help‐seeking.

Method

Responses were collected from 678 UK‐based clinical psychologists through an anonymous web survey consisting of the Social Distance Scale, Stig‐9, Military Stigma Scale, Secrecy Scale, Attitudes towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale‐Short Form, alongside personal experience and socio‐demographic questions.

Results

Two‐thirds of participants had experienced mental health problems themselves. Perceived mental health stigma was higher than external and self‐stigma. Participants were more likely to have disclosed in their social than work circles. Concerns about negative consequences for self and career, and shame prevented some from disclosing and help‐seeking.

Conclusions

Personal experiences of mental health problems among clinical psychologists may be fairly common. Stigma, concerns about negative consequences of disclosure and shame as barriers to disclosure and help‐seeking merit further consideration.
Client and therapist match on gender, age, and income: Does match within the therapeutic dyad predict early growth in the therapeutic alliance?
Authors: Behn Alex , Davanzo Antonella , Errázuriz Paula
Published: March 2018

Objective

Because of the importance of the therapeutic alliance across psychotherapeutic treatments, it is important to study variables that predict the development of a positive therapeutic alliance. This study investigates if different levels of gender, age, and income match between therapists and clients predict early development of the therapeutic alliance.

Method

The sample consisted of 28 therapists and 547 adult clients receiving individual psychotherapy for depressive symptoms. There were no exclusion criteria and no control over treatment delivery. Session‐to‐session assessments of the therapeutic alliance were collected and a growth mixture modeling framework with a priori identified classes corresponding to different levels of therapist–client match was utilized to examine differential alliance growth trajectories.

Results

No differential effect of match on any level was found on initial ratings of the alliance. Across levels of attribute match, clients tend to rate the alliance positively. Regarding growth, a “youth effect” and an “affluence effect” was noted. Dyads where the therapist is younger than the client, and dyads where the therapist is from a higher income status than the client, show additional growth in the alliance beyond positive initial ratings. This is effect is not constant across sessions.

Conclusions

Matching on gender, income, and age can be used for case assignment heuristic, in particular to produce additional growth in the alliance beyond initial positive ratings. Clinical and scientific consequences of the study are discussed.
A Framework for the Consumer Psychology of Morality in the Marketplace
Authors: Campbell Margaret C. , Winterich Karen Page
Published: March 2018

This article is part of the issue “Marketplace Morality”
Depleted iron stores are associated with inspiratory muscle weakness independently of skeletal muscle mass in men with systolic chronic heart failure
Authors: Tkaczyszyn Michał , Drozd Marcin , Węgrzynowska‐Teodorczyk Kinga , Flinta Irena , Kobak Kamil , Banasiak Waldemar , Ponikowski Piotr , Jankowska Ewa A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Skeletal and respiratory muscle dysfunction constitutes an important pathophysiological feature of heart failure (HF). We assessed the relationships between respiratory muscle function, skeletal muscle mass, and physical fitness in men with HF with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF), and investigated the hypothesis of whether iron deficiency (ID) contributes to respiratory muscle dysfunction in these patients.

Methods

We examined 53 male outpatients with stable HFrEF without asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (age: 64 ± 10 years; New York Heart Association [NYHA] class I/II/III: 36/51/13%; ischaemic aetiology: 83%; all with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40%) and 10 middle‐aged healthy men (control group). We analysed respiratory muscle function (maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressure at the mouth [MIP and MEP, respectively]), appendicular lean mass/body mass index (ALM/BMI; ALM was measured using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry), physical fitness (components of Functional Fitness Test for Older Adults), and iron status.

Results

MIP, MEP, and ALM/BMI (but not MIP adjusted for ALM/BMI) were lower in men with HFrEF vs. healthy men. MIP, MEP, and MIP adjusted for ALM/BMI (but not ALM/BMI) were lower in men with HFrEF with vs. without ID. In a multivariable linear regression model lower serum ferritin (but not transferrin saturation) was associated with lower MIP independently of ALM/BMI, left ventricular ejection fraction, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), and haemoglobin concentration. In multivariable linear regression models, lower MIP was associated with worse results in Functional Fitness Test when adjusted for ALM/BMI or relevant clinical variables (NYHA class, estimated glomerular filtration rate, NT‐proBNP, and haemoglobin concentration).

Conclusions

In men with HFrEF, low ferritin reflecting depleted iron stores is associated with inspiratory muscle weakness independently of skeletal muscle mass. Inspiratory muscle dysfunction correlates with worse physical fitness independently of either skeletal muscle mass or disease severity.
Media photo‐degradation in pharmaceutical biotechnology – impact of ambient light on media quality, cell physiology, and IgG production in CHO cultures
Authors: Neutsch Lukas , Kroll Paul , Brunner Matthias , Pansy Alexander , Kovar Michael , Herwig Christoph , Klein Tobias
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Many vital components in bioprocess media are prone to photo‐conversion or photo‐degradation upon exposure to ambient light, with severe negative consequences for biomass yield and overall productivity. However, there is only limited awareness of light irradiation as a potential risk factor when working in transparent glass bioreactors, storage vessels or disposable bag systems. The chemical complexity of most media renders a root‐cause analysis difficult. This study investigated in a novel, holistic approach how light‐induced changes in media composition relate to alterations in radical burden, cell physiology, morphology, and product formation in industrial Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) bioprocesses.

RESULTS

Two media formulations from proprietary and commercial sources were tested in a pre‐hoc light exposure scenario prior to cultivation. Using fluorescence excitation/emission (EEM) matrix spectroscopy, a photo‐sensitization of riboflavin was identified as a likely cause for drastically decreased IgG titers (up to −80%) and specific growth rates (−50% to −90%). Up to three‐fold higher radical levels were observed in photo‐degraded medium. On the biological side, this resulted in significant changes in cell morphology and aberrations in the normal IgG biosynthesis/secretion pathway.

CONCLUSION

These findings clearly illustrate the underrated impact of room light after only short periods of exposure, occurring accidentally or knowingly during bioprocess development and scale‐ up. The detrimental effects, which may share a common mechanistic cause at the molecular level, correlate well with changes in spectroscopic properties. This offers new perspectives for online monitoring concepts, and improved detectability of such effects in future. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
An overview of heavy metal removal from wastewater using magnetotactic bacteria
Authors: Ali Imran , Peng Changsheng , Khan Zahid M , Naz Iffat , Sultan Muhammad
Published: March 2018

Considering the increase in water contamination by heavy metal discharge, water quality experts are focusing on innovative future technologies for wastewater treatment. There are a number of physical, chemical and biological processes for acquiring high‐quality effluents; however, these treatment technologies have shown some limitations regarding their specific pollutant removal efficiencies, vulnerability to environmental pollutants, higher cost and energy requirements, excessive sludge volume and toxicity issues. Therefore, this review/concept paper focuses on the application of magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) in the removal of heavy metal from wastewater and also proposes a model application of MTB‐based treatment process. The unique property of the MTB is to move along the periphery of the applied external magnetic fields due to nano sized magnetosomes (MS). MS are basically the biomineral crystals of either magnetite (Fe3O4) or greigite (Fe3S4) with a size range of 30–120 nm. Moreover, challenging aspects concerning MTB employment in the removal of heavy metal from wastewater also are discussed in detail for the consideration of experts who are involved in the development of new treatment technologies or for retrofications of existing processes. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Risk factors of fecal colonization with extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in special nursing homes in Japan
Authors: Yokoyama Kumi , Uehara Yuki , Sasaki Takashi , Hiramatsu Keiichi
Published: March 2018

Objective

Japanese welfare facilities for the elderly are called as special nursing home (SNH), providing conventional‐type with group care or unit‐type with individual care. We investigated the risk factors of fecal colonization with extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL‐E) of elderly who required care at SNH in Japan.

Methods

The feces discharged on diaper were obtained from the total of 100 residents with fecal incontinence in 9 SNHs located in Tokyo, Japan. The samples were cultured on ESBL selection agar, and ESBL‐E were determined by the antimicrobial susceptibility test and genetic analysis. The status of the residents and the characteristics of facilities, especially about the incontinence care, were obtained by questionnaire methods. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the factors related to carriage of ESBL‐E.

Results

Extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae was isolated from 53 of 100 SNH residents. Risk factors of colonization among the individual residents were not found. The prevalence of ESBL‐E carriage was significantly higher in the 6 conventional‐type facilities than in the 3 unit‐type facilities (P = .015). The cart for diaper exchange was used in 5 of 6 conventional‐type facilities in 9 SNHs, and their residents tended to show high of ESBL‐E colonization rate. The residents living in unit‐type facilities which do not use gloves for changing diaper tended to show high ESBL‐E colonization rate than other 2 facilities using gloves.

Conclusions

It is suggested that using the cart for changing diaper has relation to carry ESBL‐E. In the facilities using cart, revision of their methods of excretion care will be needed.
Estimating the Impact of Salinity Stress on Livelihood Choices and Incomes in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Anik Asif Reza , Ranjan Ram , Ranganathan Thiagu
Published: March 2018

This paper explores the impact of salinity on livelihood choices of rural households in south‐western Bangladesh. We find interdependence among households' decisions involving various livelihood choices. High salinity reduces a household's probability of entrepreneurship while those households that stick only to agriculture suffer significant crop losses because of salinity. Households also face a trade‐off between subsistence and entrepreneurial activities, that is, participation in one type of activity reduces the probability of participation in the other. Households with more agricultural land, in fact, benefit from high salinity levels by taking up fisheries related activities, whereas marginal households resort to increasing labour supply. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The morphology of the reproductive system in the crab Percnon gibbesi (Decapoda: Brachyura: Grapsoidea) reveals a new combination of characters in Thoracotremata
Authors: Kienbaum Katja , Scholtz Gerhard , Becker Carola
Published: March 2018

Recent studies revealed a high diversity of reproductive structures in heterotreme brachyurans, while those of Thoracotremata seem rather uniform. Yet, there still is a huge lack of data in this group as only few species have been studied with respect to their reproductive system. The phylogenetic position of Percnidae is ambiguous. Recent molecular studies place it within polyphyletic grapsoids. We herein study the reproductive morphology of Percnon gibbesi using histology, scanning electron microscopy, micro‐computed tomography and 3D‐reconstructions to test whether this species shows the characteristic thoracotreme pattern. Our results reveal that the male copulatory system conforms to other thoracotremes. It is composed of two pairs of pleopods (gonopods) and likewise paired penes. The first gonopod is relatively long. It possesses a bent terminal process with a distal opening of the ejaculatory canal, a character also present in other grapsoids. The second gonopod is short and terminates in an apical girdle. The female reproductive system reveals a combination of characters, so far unknown for thoracotremes. The paired oviducts do not lead into the seminal receptacles, but run into separate cuticular ducts joined with the vaginae. Accessory sperm storage organs, the bursae, are also connected to the vaginae. Bursae have previously only been described in heterotreme crabs. The data presented in this study reveals a higher diversity of thoracotreme reproductive systems than anticipated.
Dynamics of formation and morphological features of neutrophil extracellular traps formed under the influence of opsonized Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Pleskova Svetlana N. , Gorshkova Ekaterina N. , Kriukov Ruslan N.
Published: March 2018

In the process of performing their protective functions, neutrophils can form neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), consisting of DNA in combination with enzymes and histones. The aim of the study was to determine the dynamics of the formation of NETs under the influence of opsonized Staphylococcus aureus and to determine the morphological features of their development in real time by atomic force microscopy. It was found that the maximum formation of NETs was observed after 3 hours of co‐incubation of neutrophils and opsonized S. aureus. For the first time, the atomic force microscopy method revealed that, at first, large blocks of parallel DNA helices are formed, which then spread in waves, and only then their bifurcation and separation can be observed. Some of the strands formed are covered by a shell, which subsequently completely disappears. Enzymes and histones become clearly visible only after 140 to 150 minutes of observation. The DNA helixes move toward the opsonized S. aureus. After NET formation, the cell remains on the substrate only in the form of traces of focal adhesion. This, and the fact that the maximum amount of NETs is formed after 3 hours of co‐incubation with opsonized S. aureus, suggests that the formation of NETs follows the classical mechanism. The study of the dynamics of formation and the microstructure of NETs makes it possible to estimate the time frame for the implementation of this protective mechanism of the human body when performing the compensatory inflammatory reaction.
MRI for solitary pulmonary nodule and mass assessment: Current state of the art
Authors: Ohno Yoshiharu , Kauczor Hans‐Ulrich , Hatabu Hiroto , Seo Joon Beom , van Beek Edwin J.R. ,   for the International Workshop for Pulmonary Functional Imaging (IWPFI)
Published: March 2018

Since the clinical introduction of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the chest has been one of its most challenging applications, and many physicists and radiologists have tried since the 1980s to use MR for assessment of different lung diseases as well as mediastinal and pleural diseases. Since then, however, technical advances in sequencing, scanners, and coils, adaptation of parallel imaging techniques, utilization of contrast media, and development of postprocessing tools have been reported by many basic and clinical researchers. As a result, state‐of‐the‐art thoracic MRI is now substituted for traditional imaging techniques and/or plays a complementary role in the management of patients with various chest diseases, and especially in the detection of pulmonary nodules and in thoracic oncology. In addition, MRI has continued to be developed to help overcome the limitations of computed tomography (CT) and nuclear medicine examinations. It can currently provide not only morphological, but also functional, physiological, pathophysiological, and molecular information at 1.5T with a gradual shift from 1.5T to 3T MR systems. In this review, we focus on these recent advances in MRI for pulmonary nodule detection and pulmonary nodule and mass evaluation by using noncontrast‐enhanced and contrast‐enhanced techniques as well as new molecular imaging methods such as chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging for a comparison with other modalities such as single or multidetector row CT, 18F‐fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET), and/or PET/CT.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1437–1458.
Value of diffusion kurtosis imaging in assessing low‐grade gliomas
Authors: Goryawala Mohammed Z. , Heros Deborah O. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Sheriff Sulaiman , Saraf‐Lavi Efrat , Maudsley Andrew A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) measures have been shown to provide increased sensitivity relative to diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in detecting pathologies.

Purpose

To compare the sensitivity of DKI‐derived kurtosis and diffusion maps for assessment of low‐grade gliomas (LGG).

Study Type

Prospective study.

Population

In all, 19 LGG patients and 26 healthy control subjects were recruited.

Field Strength/Sequence

Echo‐planar‐imaging diffusion‐weighted MR images (b‐values = 0, 1000, and 2000 with 30 diffusion gradient directions) were acquired on a 3T scanner.

Assessment

Maps for mean, axial, and radial diffusivity (MD, AD, and RD) and kurtosis (MK, AK, and RK), and fractional anisotropy (FA) were evaluated in the tumor, perilesional white matter, and contralateral normal‐appearing white matter regions.

Statistical Testing

General linear models (GLM), Cohen's d for effect size estimates, false discovery rate (FDR) for multiple corrections, Cochran Q‐test.

Results

Pairwise differences were observed for all diffusion and kurtosis measures between the studied regions (FDR P < 0.001), except an FA map that failed to show significant differences between the lesion and perilesional white matter (FDR P = 0.373). Effect size analysis showed that kurtosis metrics were found to be 18.8% (RK, P = 0.144) to 29.1% (AK, P < 0.05) more sensitive in discriminating perilesional regions from the lesion than corresponding diffusion metrics, whereas AK provided a 25.0% (P < 0.05) increase in sensitivity in discriminating perilesional and contralateral white matter. RK was found to be the most sensitive to contralateral white matter differences between low‐grade gliomas and controls, with MK and RK providing a significantly greater sensitivity of 587.2% (P < 0.001) and 320.7% (P < 0.001) than MD and RD, respectively.

Data Conclusion

Kurtosis maps showed increased sensitivity, as compared to counterpart diffusion maps, for evaluation of microstructural changes in gliomas with a 3–6‐fold increment in assessing changes in contralateral white matter.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;48:1551–1558
Appropriate utilization of cardiac magnetic resonance for the assessment of heart failure and potential associated cost savings
Authors: Kaushal Nishchay , Wijeysundera Harindra C. , Connelly Kim A. , Roifman Idan
Published: March 2018

Background

The rapid growth in cardiac imaging utilization has led to the development of appropriate use criteria (AUC) in an effort to control costs. Recently, cardiac MRI has developed into a valuable modality in the evaluation of cardiac disease. However, there are no studies examining the appropriate use of cardiac MRI in clinical practice.

Purpose

To determine the appropriate utilization of cardiac MRI in a large quaternary care institution and to compare percentages of appropriate utilization pre‐ and postpublication of the AUC document. We hypothesized that percentages of appropriate cardiac MRI utilization will be similar to those of other comparable cardiac imaging modalities and that there would be a significant change in appropriate use pre‐ and post‐AUC publication.

Study Type

Retrospective cohort study.

Population

In all, 2032 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac MRI for the assessment of heart failure between 2012–2016.

Field Strength

1.5T.

Assessment

Data were collected and an appropriateness category was assigned for each cardiac MRI.

Statistical Tests

Rates of major cardiac risk factors were compared between those undergoing cardiac MRIs pre‐ and post‐AUC using the chi‐square and the Mann–Whitney tests for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Appropriateness classification was compared pre‐ and post‐AUC publication using the chi‐square test.

Results

There were no significant differences in the prevalence of major cardiovascular risk factors before and after publication of the AUC. 95.5% of all cardiac MRIs were appropriate based on the AUC. Further, there was a significant difference when comparing the appropriateness classification before and after publication of the AUC (P = 0.0003), potentially associated with annual cost savings of ∼$14.8 million.

Data Conclusion

We report a very high percentage of appropriate use of cardiac MRI and a significant increase in the proportion of tests classified as appropriate after AUC publication.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:e132–e138.
Imaging of non‐accidental injury; what is clinical best practice?
Authors: Nguyen Amy , Hart Robin
Published: March 2018

Non‐accidental injury (NAI) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children. Fractures are the second most common findings of NAI, after cutaneous lesions such as bruises and contusions. Imaging in NAI remains a controversial issue with little agreement concerning how, when and what imaging modalities should be used in the investigation of suspected cases. This review addresses the radiological investigations and findings of NAI, and the differential diagnoses of these findings. Adherence to the international guidelines for skeletal survey imaging is recommended. This ensures the content and quality of the radiographic series are of an optimal standard to improve the detection of occult fractures, and ensuring the accurate reporting of images. The involvement of a paediatric radiologist is important, if not essential in the diagnosis of NAI. In the evaluation of suspected cases, the role of the radiologist includes the detection of radiological findings suggestive of NAI, and the differentiation of these findings from normal variants and underlying pathologies. The diagnosis of NAI relies not only on radiological imaging, but also a combination of clinical and social findings. It is mandatory that all physicians work in close collaboration to improve diagnostic accuracy, as failure to diagnose NAI carries significant risk for morbidity.
Nonlinear resonances in linear segmented Paul trap of short central segment
Authors: Kłosowski Łukasz , Piwiński Mariusz , Pleskacz Katarzyna , Wójtewicz Szymon , Lisak Daniel
Published: March 2018

Linear segmented Paul trap system has been prepared for ion mass spectroscopy experiments. A nonstandard approach to stability of trapped ions is applied to explain some effects observed with ensembles of calcium ions. Trap's stability diagram is extended to 3‐dimensional one using additional ∆a besides standard q and a stability parameters. Nonlinear resonances in (q, ∆a) diagrams are observed and described with a proposed model. The resonance lines have been identified using simple simulations and comparing the numerical and experimental results. The phenomenon can be applied in electron‐impact ionization experiments for mass identification of obtained ions or purification of their ensembles.
Rotavirus surveillance in Pakistan during 2015‐2016 reveals high prevalence of G12P[6]
Authors: Umair Massab , Salman Muhammad , Alam Muhammad Masroor , Rana Muhammad S. , Zaidi Syed S.Z. , Bowen Michael D. , Aamir Uzma B. , Abbasi Bilal H.
Published: March 2018

The G12 rotavirus genotype has emerged globally since their first detection in 1987 from the Philippines; however it remains a rare cause of gastroenteritis in Pakistan. Rotavirus surveillance conducted during 2015‐2016, assessed 3446 children <5 years hospitalized for gastroenteritis and found 802 (23.2%) positive on ELISA. Genotyping of a subset of positive samples (n = 319) revealed G12P[6] (11.28%) as the third most common G/P combination following G3P[8] (28.5%) and G1P[8] (12.5%); G2P[4] (10.65%) and G3P[6] (8.15%) were other frequently detected strains. Phylogenetic analysis of G12 strains from Pakistan revealed high genetic similarity to G12 strains from Italy, Thailand, Korea, and Great Britain as well as local strains within G12 lineage III. In conclusion, G12P[6] was a major contributor of RVA gastroenteritis in Pakistani children. Robust surveillance after the introduction of rotavirus vaccines will help determine the evolution of G12 and other circulating genotypes in the country.