bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility of myocardial T1 and T2 relaxation time measurement using slice‐interleaved T1 and T2 mapping sequences
Authors: Bellm Steven , Basha Tamer A. , Shah Ravi V. , Murthy Venkatesh L. , Liew Charlene , Tang Maxine , Ngo Long H. , Manning Warren J. , Nezafat Reza
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To assess measurement reproducibility and image quality of myocardial T1 and T2 maps using free‐breathing slice‐interleaved T1 and T2 mapping sequences at 1.5 Tesla (T).

Materials and Methods

Eleven healthy subjects (33 ± 16 years; 6 males) underwent a slice‐interleaved T1 and T2 mapping test/retest cardiac MR study at 1.5T on 2 days. For each day, subjects were imaged in two sessions with removal out of the magnet and repositioning before the subsequent session. We studied measurement reproducibility as well as the required sample size for sufficient statistical power to detect a predefined change in T1 and T2. In a separate prospective study, we assessed T1 and T2 map image quality in 241 patients (54 ± 15 years; 73 women) with known/suspected cardiovascular disease referred for clinical cardiac MR. A subjective quality score was used to assess a segment‐based image quality.

Results

In the healthy cohort, the slice‐interleaved T1 measurements were highly reproducible, with global coefficients of variation (CVs) of 2.4% between subjects, 2.1% between days, and 1.7% between sessions. Slice‐interleaved T2 mapping sequences provided similar reproducibility with global CVs of 7.2% between subjects, 6.3% between days, and 5.0 between sessions. A lower variability resulted in a reduction of the required number of subjects to achieve a certain statistical power when compared with other T1 mapping sequences. In the subjective image quality assessment, >80% of myocardial segments had interpretable data.

Conclusion

Slice‐interleaved T1 and T2 mapping sequences yield highly reproducible T1 and T2 measurements with >80% of interpretable myocardial segments. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1159–1167.
Reproducibility of three different cardiac T2‐mapping sequences at 1.5T
Authors: Baeßler Bettina , Schaarschmidt Frank , Stehning Christian , Schnackenburg Bernhard , Giolda Agathe , Maintz David , Bunck Alexander C.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To elucidate the impact of technical and intraindividual reproducibility on the overall variability of myocardial T2 relaxation times.

Materials and Methods

Thirty healthy volunteers were examined three times (day 1 morning/evening, evening after 2–3 weeks) at 1.5T. During each examination three different T2‐mapping sequences were acquired twice at three slices in short axis view: multi‐echo‐spin‐echo (MESE), T2‐prepared balanced steady‐state free precession (SSFP) (T2prep), and gradient‐spin‐echo with and without fat saturation (GraSE/GraSEFS). Repeated measurements were performed for T2prep and GraSE. Segmented T2‐maps were generated for each slice according to the American Heart Association (AHA) 16‐segment model.

Results

The coefficients of variation and intraclass correlation coefficients for intraobserver variability were: 1.3% and 0.89 for T2prep, 1.5% and 0.93 for GraSE, 3.1% and 0.83 for MESE; and for interobserver variability: 3.3% and 0.66 for T2prep, 2.0% and 0.83 for GraSE, 3.6% and 0.77 for MESE. No systematic difference of T2 times was observed due to diurnal effects and on long‐term analysis using one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey‐type multiple comparisons (morning vs. evening scan for T2prep: 52.5 ± 2.4 vs. 51.7 ± 2.7 msec, P = 0.119; for GraSE: 58.6 ± 4.0 vs. 58.5 ± 3.8 msec, P = 0.984; for GraSEFS 57.1 ± 3.2 vs. 57.2 ± 3.9 msec, P = 0.998, and for MESE: 53.8 ± 2.7 vs. 53.3 ± 3.3 msec, P = 0.541; scans between weeks for T2prep: 51.7 ± 2.7 vs. 51.4 ± 2.4 msec, P = 0.873; for GraSE: 58.5 ± 3.8 vs. 58.1 ± 3.4 msec, P = 0.736; for GraSEFS: 57.2 ± 3.9 vs. 57.0 ± 4.6 msec, P = 0.964, and for MESE: 53.3 ± 3.3 vs. 53.4 ± 2.4 msec, P = 0.970). ANOVA components, however, demonstrated a greater variance of T2 times over multiple timepoints than for repeated measurements within the same scan (variance components of the model fit for intraday variance vs. repeated measurements: T2prep 2.22 vs. 1.36, GraSE 3.76 vs. 2.09, GraSEFS 3.96 vs. 1.58, MESE 1.86; and for interweeks variance vs. repeated measurements: T2prep 2.21 vs. 0.80, GraSE 3.20 vs. 2.10, GraSEFS 8.82 vs. 1.18, and MESE 4.49).

Conclusion

Technical reproducibility and intra‐ and interobserver agreement of myocardial T2 relaxation times are excellent and intraindividual variation over time is small. Therefore, we consider subject‐related factors to explain most of the interindividual variability of myocardial T2 times reported in previous studies. The acknowledgment of this subject‐related, biological variability may be important for the future diagnostic value of T2‐mapping. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1168–1178.
Sensitivity of MRI parameters within intervertebral discs to the severity of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Huber Maxime , Gilbert Guillaume , Roy Julien , Parent Stefan , Labelle Hubert , Périé Delphine
Published: April 2016

Purpose

To measure magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters including relaxation times (T1ρ, T2), magnetization transfer (MT) and diffusion parameters (mean diffusivity [MD], fractional anisotropy [FA]) of intervertebral discs in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, and to investigate the sensitivity of these MR parameters to the severity of the spine deformities.

Materials and Methods

Thirteen patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and three control volunteers with no history of spine disease underwent an MRI acquisition at 3T including the mapping of T1ρ, T2, MT, MD, and FA. The apical zone included all discs within the scoliotic curve while the control zone was composed of other discs. The severity was analyzed through low (<32°) versus high (>40°) Cobb angles. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) were performed.

Results

Significant differences were found between the apical zone and the control zone for T2 (P = 0.047), and between low and high Cobb angles for T2 (P = 0.014) and MT (P = 0.002). AHC showed two distinct clusters, one with mainly low Cobb angles and one with mainly high Cobb angles, for the MRI parameters measured within the apical zone, with an accuracy of 0.9 and a Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of 0.8. Within the control zone, the AHC showed no clear classification (accuracy of 0.6 and MCC of 0.2).

Conclusion

We successfully performed an in vivo multiparametric MRI investigation of young patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The MRI parameters measured within the intervertebral discs were found to be sensitive to intervertebral disc degeneration occurring with scoliosis and to the severity of scoliosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:1123–1131.
Laser ablation sample transfer for localized LC‐MS/MS proteomic analysis of tissue
Authors: Donnarumma Fabrizio , Murray Kermit K.
Published: April 2016

We have developed a mid‐infrared laser ablation sampling technique for nano‐flow liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry proteomic profiling of discrete regions from biological samples. Laser ablation performed in transmission geometry was used to transfer material from 50‐µm thick tissue sections mounted on a glass microscope slide to a capturing solvent. Captured samples were processed using filter‐aided sample preparation and enzymatically digested to produce tryptic peptides for data‐dependent analysis with an ion trap mass spectrometer. Comparison with ultraviolet laser capture microdissection from neighboring regions on the same tissue section revealed that infrared laser ablation transfer has higher reproducibility between samples from different consecutive sections. Both techniques allowed for proteomics investigation of different organelles without the addition of surfactants. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparing to read the ubiquitin code: characterization of ubiquitin trimers by top‐down mass spectrometry
Authors: Lee Amanda E. , Geis‐Asteggiante Lucia , Dixon Emma K. , Kim Yeji , Kashyap Tanuja R. , Wang Yan , Fushman David , Fenselau Catherine
Published: April 2016

The profound effects of ubiquitination on the movement and processing of cellular proteins depend exquisitely on the structures of monoubiquitin and polyubiquitin modifications. Unconjugated polyubiquitins also have a variety of intracellular functions. Structures and functions are not well correlated yet, because the structures of polyubiquitins and polyubiquitin modifications of proteins are difficult to decipher. We are moving towards a robust strategy to provide that structural information. In this report electron transfer dissociation mass spectra of six synthetic ubiquitin trimers (multiply branched proteins with molecular masses exceeding 25 600 Da) are examined using an Orbitrap Fusion Lumos instrument to determine how top‐down mass spectrometry can characterize the chain topology and linkage sites in a single, facile workflow. The efficacy of this method relies on the formation, detection, and interpretation of extensive fragmentation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Focusing on the Critical Link Between Employee Engagement and Customer Centricity at DHL Freight
Authors: MacGillavry Kim , Sinyan Pa
Published: April 2016

Organizational leaders have long realized the importance of fostering customer loyalty to ensure profitability and growth. To improve consumers’ experiences, they have traditionally captured and analyzed the voice of the customer and additional insights within their organization. Such customer experience management efforts tend to stall, however, when employees are not able or willing to act on the information that has been collected. At DHL Freight, collaboration with Gallup, Inc., led to a shift in strategy that focused on cultural change from the top down to bolster the link between employee engagement and customer centricity. The results of this effort not only accelerated implementation of the company's customer experience management program but also identified practical measures for fostering a customer‐centric outlook and complementary behavior throughout the organization. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Axillary reverse mapping in patients with breast cancer: Is it oncologically safe?
Authors: Ngui Nicholas K. , French James , Kilby Christopher J. , Pathmanathan Nirmala , Elder Elisabeth E.
Published: April 2016

Background

Axillary reverse mapping (ARM) is a technique used to identify the lymphatics draining the arm. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and predictors of ARM node metastases in breast cancer patients undergoing an axillary lymph node dissection (ALND).

Methods

A total of 87 patients were enrolled in this study. Patent V Blue dye was injected in the upper arm for ARM node localization. All patients had an ALND with the identified ARM node removed and sent separately for histologic analysis.

Results

Of 67 (77%) patients in whom an ARM node was identified, 49 (73%) were negative and 18 (27%) were positive for metastases on final histopathology. Positive ARM node status was significantly associated with advanced axillary disease, and larger primary cancers. Patients requiring a completion ALND due to a positive sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) with non‐suspicious ARM nodes during surgery did not have ARM node metastases.

Conclusions

There is a high risk of ARM node involvement, approximately a quarter, in patients with preoperatively known lymph node metastases from breast cancer. However, it may be safe to preserve a clinically non‐suspicious ARM node in patients with a positive SLNB who require a completion ALND. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:726–731. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rare breast cancer: 246 invasive secretory carcinomas from the National Cancer Data Base
Authors: Jacob John Doromal , Hodge Caitlin , Franko Jan , Pezzi Christopher M. , Goldman Charles D. , Klimberg Vicki Suzanne
Published: April 2016

Background and Objectives

Invasive secretory breast carcinoma (SBC) is a rare subtype of breast malignancy.

Methods

Cases of SBC and infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC) from the National Cancer Database (1998–2011) were queried.

Results

Patients with SBC (n = 246) and IDC were identified (n = 1,564,068). The group with SBC was younger (age 56.4 ± 16.0 vs. 60.4 ± 13.9 years, P < 0.001), had similar tumor size (19.9 ± 17.8 vs. 21.6 ± 25.5 mm, P = 0.297), more frequently African‐Americans (24.1 vs. 14.8 vs. 13.7; P = 0.004), more well‐differentiated (32 vs. 18%, P < 0.001) and less likely to be hormone receptor positive (ER: 64 vs. 76%, P = 0.001; PR: 43 vs. 65%, P < 0.001). No differences were found for incidence of node‐positivity (32 vs. 34%, P = 0.520) and stage IV presentation (2.4 vs. 3.6%, P = 0.372). Breast conserving surgery (60 vs. 58%, P = 0.405) and hormonal therapy (67 vs. 71%, P = 0.489) rates were similar. Systemic chemotherapy was used less often for SBC (38 vs. 45%, P = 0.035). The overall survival of all patients with SBC was better than all patients with IDC (median not reached vs. 14.8 years, P = 0.025).

Conclusion

SBC is an uncommon tumor that is often well‐differentiated and seen in younger women. Contrary to prior reports, they are frequently hormone receptor‐positive. Compared to IDC, overall survival is improved. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:721–725. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Access to Research: An innovative and successful initiative by the UK publishing industry
Authors: Griffin Jonathan
Published: April 2016

Key points

Access to Research is an online service for local libraries across the UK.

Many large STM publishers have provided free walk‐in access to their content.

The initiative is in response to a recommendation in the government‐commissioned ‘Finch Report’ on improving access to publically funded research.

The service has just completed a 2‐year pilot, and toward the end of the pilot, research was commissioned to understand its impact.

The research demonstrated the value of the service to local library users, so publishers’ local libraries have decided to continue providing the service.
Selective feeding by the giant barrel sponge enhances foraging efficiency
Authors: McMurray Steven E. , Johnson Zackary I. , Hunt Dana E. , Pawlik Joseph R. , Finelli Christopher M.
Published: April 2016

Foraging theory predicts the evolution of feeding behaviors that increase consumer fitness. Sponges were among the earliest metazoans on earth and developed a unique filter‐feeding mechanism that does not rely on a nervous system. Once thought indiscriminate, sponges are now known to selectively consume picoplankton, but it is unclear whether this confers any benefit. Additionally, sponges consume dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and detritus, but relative preferences for these resources are unknown. We quantified suspension feeding by the giant barrel sponge Xestospongia muta on Conch Reef, Florida, to examine relationships between diet choice, food resource availability, and foraging efficiency. Sponges consistently preferred cyanobacteria over other picoplankton, which were preferred over detritus and DOC; nevertheless, the sponge diet was mostly DOC (∼70%) and detritus (∼20%). Consistent with foraging theory, less‐preferred foods were discriminated against when relatively scarce, but were increasingly accepted as they became relatively more abundant. Food uptake was limited, likely by post‐capture constraints, yet selective foraging enabled sponges to increase nutritional gains.
Light emitting diode mediated photobiomodulation therapy improves orthodontic tooth movement and miniscrew stability: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ekizer Abdullah , Türker Gökhan , Uysal Tancan , Güray Enis , Taşdemir Zekeriya
Published: April 2016

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of light‐emitting diode‐mediated‐photobiomodulation therapy (LPT) on the stability of miniscrews, rate of orthodontic tooth movement, and interleukin‐1β levels in gingival and peri‐implant crevicular fluid.

Materials and Methods

This study was a double blind, randomized placebo/control matched pairs clinical trial to test the efficacy of LPT. This split‐mouth design study consisted of 20 patients (13 girls, 7 boys). The eligibility criteria included patients who had extraction of maxillary first premolars. Mini‐screws were placed between maxillary first molars and second premolars on both sides as anchorage units. LPT was applied with an energy density of 20 mW/cm2 over a period of 21 successive days (20 minutes per day) over the movement of canine teeth on the test side and using a pseudo application on the placebo side. The main outcome of this study was to assess effect of LPT on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement. The secondary outcomes were measuring stability of miniscrews and interleukin‐1β levels in gingival and peri‐implant crevicular fluid after LPT. Randomization was accomplished with random LPT application side selection by coin toss. Measurements were made by blinding clinicians. Blinding of the patients was achieved using the same LPT device on both sides but irradiating only one side. For statistical comparison, paired samples t‐test and one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used at P < 0.05 level.

Results

Miniscrew stability was similar between control and LPT groups at baseline (T0) and the 1st month (T1). However, miniscrew stability was significantly increased in the LPT group in 2nd (T2) and 3rd (T3) months. Comparison of tooth movement during three different time intervals (T1–T0, T2–T1, and T3‐T2) revealed that statistically significantly increased in every time intervals after LPT. No statistically significant change was detected in the IL‐1β levels between groups.

Conclusion

LPT had the potential of accelerating orthodontic tooth movement and had a positive effect on miniscrew stability. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:936–943, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of aqueous‐based cathode slurry pH and immersion time on corrosion of aluminum current collector in lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Li S. Y. , Church B. C.
Published: April 2016

Corrosion of aluminum can occur during the manufacturing of lithium‐ion batteries when using aqueous‐based cathode slurries. In exposure tests, the alkaline pH value of aqueous‐based cathode slurries and immersing time were revealed as the principle factors that control the corrosion of aluminum during the cathode manufacturing process. The nickel manganese cobalt oxide active material used in the slurry does not have a direct impact on corrosion of the aluminum current collector. The initiation and evolution of localized corrosion on aluminum are closely related to the formation of galvanic cells between aluminum matrix and intermetallic particles. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results confirmed that the pH of cathode slurry was the only factor that alters aluminum surface composition, during which the oxide passive film was gradually degraded into hydroxide. Electrochemical characterizations showed that aluminum electrodes gave remarkably different response to the different pH of test solutions. The time‐pH‐variant electrochemical response was ascribed to the change of passive film and electric double layer properties.
Amphiphilic Triblock Copolymers from Poly(2‐oxazoline) with Different Hydrophobic Blocks: Changes of the Micellar Structures upon Addition of a Strongly Hydrophobic Cancer Drug
Authors: Jaksch Sebastian , Schulz Anita , Di Zhenyu , Luxenhofer Robert , Jordan Rainer , Papadakis Christine M.
Published: April 2016

Amphiphilic triblock copolymers with poly(2‐methyl‐2‐oxazoline) (MeOx) end blocks and a poly(2‐n‐butyl‐2‐oxazoline) (nBuOx) middle block have been found to solubilize large amounts of the cancer drug paclitaxel (PTX) whereas this is not the case when the middle block is more hydrophobic, such as poly(2‐n‐nonyl‐2‐oxazoline) (NOx) (Schulz et al., ACS Nano2014, 8, 2686). To further elucidate the origin of this behavior, dilute aqueous solutions (5–10 mg mL−1) of these two copolymers have been investigated by small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS), both in the absence and presence of PTX. Whereas PMeOx‐b‐PNOx‐b‐PMeOx forms mainly worm‐like micelles coexisting with large aggregates, spherical micelles are predominant in PMeOx‐b‐PnBuOx‐b‐PMeOx. Already small PTX concentrations lead to shape changes in PMeOx‐b‐PNOx‐b‐PMeOx toward spherical micelles. In contrast, changes in the aggregation behavior of PMeOx‐b‐PnBuOx‐b‐PMeOx are only observed at higher PTX concentrations with a transformation into raspberry‐like particles, which may explain the high PTX loading capacity of PMeOx‐b‐PnBuOx‐b‐PMeOx micelles.

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Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers and clinical features in leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) mutation carriers
Authors: Vilas Dolores , Shaw Leslie M. , Taylor Peggy , Berg Daniela , Brockmann Kathrin , Aasly Jan , Marras Connie , Pont‐Sunyer Claustre , Ríos José , Marek Ken , Tolosa Eduardo
Published: April 2016

Background

Mutations in the leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene are the most common cause of inherited Parkinson's disease (PD). Nonmanifesting carriers of LRRK2 mutations are at high risk for developing PD. Information available on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers in LRRK2 carriers remains preliminary.

Objectives

To measure CSF levels of α‐synuclein, β amyloid1‐42, total‐tau, and phospho‐tau181, in LRRK2‐associated PD, idiopathic PD, nonmanifesting carriers, and first‐degree relatives of LRRK2‐associated PD patients without the mutation (nonmanifesting noncarriers). To correlate the clinical features and the integrity of the nigrostriatal pathway assessed by neuroimaging with the CSF biomarkers.

Methods

138 CSF samples provided by the Michael J. Fox Foundation LRRK2 Cohort Consortium were analyzed: 28 LRRK2‐associated PD, 35 idiopathic PD, 41 nonmanifesting carriers, and 34 nonmanifesting noncarriers. All of the participants in the study were clinically assessed. Most of the participants underwent a dopamine transporter scan to assess the integrity of the nigrostriatal pathway.

Results

CSF levels of α‐synuclein were similar in LRRK2‐associated PD, nonmanifesting carriers, and nonmanifesting noncarriers but significantly higher than in idiopathic PD (P = .041). No differences were found in the concentrations of β amyloid1‐42, total‐tau, or phospho‐tau181 among study groups. CSF alpha‐synuclein levels strongly correlated with total‐tau and phospo‐tau181 levels in all groups. No significant correlation was found between the CSF biomarkers and the striatal binding ratios for (123)I‐FP‐CIT in nonmanifesting carriers.

Conclusion

The CSF protein profile differs in LRRK2‐associated PD and idiopathic PD, suggesting that pathophysiological mechanisms different from IPD underlie LRRK2‐associated PD. Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers did not prove helpful in differentiating asymptomatic LRRK2 mutation carriers from noncarriers. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Composite grafting with pulp adipofascial advancement flaps for treating non‐replantable fingertip amputations
Authors: Lai Hsin‐Ti , Wu Sheng‐Hua , Lai Ya‐Wei , Hsieh Tung‐Ying , Lee Su‐Shin , David Wang Hui‐Min , Chang Kao‐Ping , Lin Sin‐Daw , Lai Chung‐Sheng , Huang Shu‐Hung
Published: April 2016

Background

Non‐replantable fingertip amputation is still a clinical challenge. We performed modified composite grafting with pulp adipofascial advancement flap for Hirase IIA fingertip amputations. Results from a series of patients are presented and achieved better outcome than traditional composite grafting. Patients and Methods: From September 2012 to April 2014, fourteen patients with sixteen digits were included in our study. Mean age of patients was 43.9 years (20‐71 years). All of our patients underwent this procedure under digital block anesthesia. We performed pulp adipofascial advancement flap for better soft tissue coverage of bone exposure stump first. The amputated parts were defatted, trimming, and reattached as composite graft. Age and gender of patients, injured finger, Hirase classification, mechanism of trauma, overall graft survival area, two‐point discrimination (2PD) (mm) at six‐month, length of shortening of digit, The average disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score and subjective self‐evaluation questionnaire at 6 month were recorded. Results: Average graft survival area was 89% (75‐100%). Average length of shortening was 2.2 mm (1.8‐3.5 mm). 2PD at six‐month after surgery was 6.3 mm in average (5‐8 mm). Average DASH score at 6 month was 1.45 (0.83‐2.5). The self‐evaluated aesthetic results showed twelve patients (85.7%) were very satisfied, and no patient was completely unsatisfied. Conclusions: In Hirase zone IIA traumatic fingertip amputation where replantation is difficult, our modified technique of composite grafting with pulp adipofascial advancement flap provided an alternative choice with high successful rate, acceptable functional and aesthetic outcomes. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:651–657, 2016.
Homology Modeling, Validation and Dynamics of the G Protein‐coupled Estrogen Receptor 1 (GPER‐1)
Authors: Bruno Agostino , Aiello Francesca , Costantino Gabriele , Radi Marco
Published: April 2016

Estrogens exert their action mainly by binding three receptors, namely estrogen receptors α and β (ERα and ERβ) and GPER‐1 (G‐protein coupled estrogen receptor 1). While the patho‐physiological role of both ERα and ERβ has been deeply investigated, the role of GPER‐1 in estrogens’ signaling has not been clearly defined yet. Unfortunately, only few GPER‐1 selective ligands were discovered so far, and the real efficiency of such compounds is still matter of debate. To better understand the physiological relevance of GPER‐1, new selective chemical probes are higly needed. In this scenario, we report herein the generation and validation of a three‐dimensional (3‐D) GPER‐1 homology model by means of docking studies and molecular dynamics simulations. The model thus generated was employed to (i) decipher the structural basis underlying the ability of estrogens and some Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) to bind GPER‐1 and classical ERα and ERβ, and (ii) generate a reliable G1/GPER‐1 complex useful in rationalizing the pharmacological profile of G1 reported in the literature. The G1/GPER‐1 complex herein reported could be further exploited in drug design approaches aimed at improving the pharmacological profile of G1 or at identifying new chemical entities (NCEs) as potential modulators of GPER‐1.
Modeling the viscous behavior of frozen soil with hypoplasticity
Authors: Xu Guofang , Wu Wei , Qi Jilin
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a hypoplastic constitutive model for the viscous behavior of frozen soil. The model is composed of a ‘solid’ part and a ‘fluid’ part. The solid part is based on the extended hypoplastic model, and the fluid part is dependent on the second time derivative of strain. The performance of the model is demonstrated by simulating some uniaxial compression tests at different strain rates. Moreover, the model can describe in a unified way the three stages of typical creep tests, that is, primary, secondary, and tertiary stage. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A fully coupled element‐free Galerkin model for hydro‐mechanical analysis of advancement of fluid‐driven fractures in porous media
Authors: Samimi S. , Pak A.
Published: April 2016

Hydraulic fracturing (HF) of underground formations has widely been used in different fields of engineering. Despite the technological advances in techniques ofin situHF, the industry uses semi‐analytical tools to design HF treatment. This is due to the complex interaction among various mechanisms involved in this process, so that for thorough simulations of HF operations a fully coupled numerical model is required.

In this study, using element‐free Galerkin (EFG) mesh‐less method, a new formulation for numerical modeling of hydraulic fracture propagation in porous media is developed. This numerical approach, which is based on the simultaneous solution of equilibrium and continuity equations, considers the hydro‐mechanical coupling between the crack and its surrounding porous medium. Therefore, the developed EFG model is capable of simulating fluid leak‐off and fluid lag phenomena.

To create the discrete equation system, the Galerkin technique is applied, and the essential boundary conditions are imposed via penalty method. Then, the resultant constrained integral equations are discretized in space using EFG shape functions. For temporal discretization, a fully implicit scheme is employed. The final set of algebraic equations that forms a non‐linear equation system is solved using the direct iterative procedure.

Modeling of cracks is performed on the basis of linear elastic fracture mechanics, and for this purpose, the so‐called diffraction method is employed. For verification of the model, a number of problems are solved. According to the obtained results, the developed EFG computer program can successfully be applied for simulating the complex process of hydraulic fracture propagation in porous media. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonprofit Leader Perceptions of Operating Reserves and Their Substitutes
Authors: Sloan Margaret F. , Charles Cleopatra , Kim Mirae
Published: April 2016

This exploratory study has three objectives: (1) to understand the various ways academics, consultants, and practitioners conceptualize operating reserves; (2) to explore differences among academic findings, consultant recommendations, and nonprofit leader perceptions of operating reserves; and (3) to identify how practitioners operationalize operating reserves within their organizations. Using intensive interviews with nonprofit executives, we find that the operating reserve ratio (ORR) commonly used in the nonprofit literature does not accurately indicate whether an organization holds an operating reserve according to nonprofit leaders. In addition, results indicate that experienced nonprofit leaders perceive a variety of other fund types including endowment and investment savings as well as ability to borrow, other assets, sister foundations, and donor networks as legitimate substitutes for a reserve.
Effects of carnosine supplementation on glucose metabolism: Pilot clinical trial
Authors: de Courten Barbora , Jakubova Michaela , de Courten Maximilian PJ , Kukurova Ivica Just , Vallova Silvia , Krumpolec Patrik , Valkovic Ladislav , Kurdiova Timea , Garzon Davide , Barbaresi Silvia , Teede Helena J. , Derave Wim , Krssak Martin , Aldini Giancarlo , Ukropec Jozef , Ukropcova Barbara
Published: April 2016

Objective

Carnosine is a naturally present dipeptide in humans and an over‐the counter food additive. Evidence from animal studies supports the role for carnosine in the prevention and treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, yet there is limited human data. This study investigated whether carnosine supplementation in individuals with overweight or obesity improves diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

In a double‐blind randomized pilot trial in nondiabetic individuals with overweight and obesity (age 43 ± 8 years; body mass index 31 ± 4 kg/m2), 15 individuals were randomly assigned to 2 g carnosine daily and 15 individuals to placebo for 12 weeks. Insulin sensitivity and secretion, glucose tolerance (oral glucose tolerance test), blood pressure, plasma lipid profile, skeletal muscle (1H‐MRS), and urinary carnosine levels were measured.

Results

Carnosine concentrations increased in urine after supplementation (P < 0.05). An increase in fasting insulin and insulin resistance was hampered in individuals receiving carnosine compared to placebo, and this remained significant after adjustment for age, sex, and change in body weight (P = 0.02, P = 0.04, respectively). Two‐hour glucose and insulin were both lower after carnosine supplementation compared to placebo in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

These pilot intervention data suggest that carnosine supplementation may be an effective strategy for prevention of type 2 diabetes.
Nonlinear low‐velocity impact analysis of functionally graded nanotube‐reinforced composite cylindrical shells in thermal environments
Authors: Bayat M.R. , Rahmani O. , Mosavi Mashhadi M.
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a nonlinear analysis of impact response of nanocomposites cylindrical shells reinforced by single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) in thermal environments. The nanotube reinforcement distributions are either uniform or functionally graded in the shell thickness direction. Micromechanical models are employed to estimate the material properties of nanotube reinforced composites. A higher‐order shear deformation theory with a von Kármán‐type of kinematic nonlinearity yields the equations of motion. By considering the nanotube reinforced composites as temperature‐dependent, the thermal effects are included. A two‐step perturbation technique is used to solve the equations of motion. A parametric study is carried out, and the effects of nanotube distribution and its volume fraction, impactor initial velocity, temperature change, geometric parameter of shell, and edge boundary condition on the impact response of the shell are discussed. The numerical results show that the central deflection of the shell subjected to impact is sinusoidal. It is found that the nanotube distribution through the thickness can alter the amplitude and the frequency of the central deflection and also the energy absorption significantly. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:730–745, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Modification of graphene with organic/inorganic silicon‐based materials and its reinforcement on the UV‐curing polyurethane composite coatings
Authors: Qian Xiaodong , Jiang Saihua
Published: April 2016

Functionalized graphene (FGO) was prepared through the sol‐gel method and thiol‐ene reactions. FGO was subsequently incorporated into polyurethane (PUA) through UV‐curing process. The structural and morphological features of FGO/PUA composite coatings were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well as scanning electron microscope (SEM). The TEM and SEM results show that FGO nanosheets are homogeneous dispersed in the PUA matrix and form the strong interfacial interaction with PUA matrix due to the formation of chemical reaction between FGO and PUA matrix. Moreover, the incorporation of FGO could effectively enhance the thermal, flame retardant, and mechanical properties of composite coatings. The thermal stability of the PUA composite coatings with only 0.1 wt% FGO was increased by 18°C. Meanwhile, the incorporation of FGO could also reduce the peak heat release rate (pHRR) of PUA resins. Compared with pure PUA, the storage modulus and tensile strength of the composite coatings with 0.5 wt% FGO were also improved by 9% and 82%, respectively. By contrast, rGO/PUA composite coatings could not form homogeneous dispersion and exhibit significant accumulations. Consequently, the covalent modification of graphene presented herein will provide a feasible and effective approach to the modification of graphene and the obtained FGO could impart PUA with high performance. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:746–754, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nanocomposite hydrogels for selective removal of cationic dyes from aqueous solutions
Authors: Dutta Sujan , Biswas Gargi , Dhara Dibakar
Published: April 2016

Removal of organic dyes from waste water has received a significant attention in recent years. In this work, a set of nanocomposite hydrogels (NHs) were prepared and their capacity to absorb crystal violet (CV), a cationic dye, and acid yellow‐23 (AY), an anionic dye, from aqueous solutions was determined. NHs were prepared by in situ formation of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) inside poly(acrylamide‐co‐4‐styrene sulfonic acid sodium salt) (P[AAm‐co‐SSA]) hydrogel matrices. The dye absorption capacity of the magnetic NHs (MNHs) was compared with simple hydrogels (hydrogels or SHs) without the MNPs The prepared hydrogels were characterized by FTIR, XRD, thermogravimetric analysis, high resolution TEM, field emission SEM, and vibrating sample magnetometer measurement. From HRTEM, it was confirmed that the prepared MNPs in hydrogel matrices were in the size range of about 8 to 10 nm. The MNHs showed greater swelling behavior as well as greater removal efficiency of cationic dye from aqueous solutions in comparison to the SHs. With increase of SSA mole percentage, dye removal efficiency was also increased for both types of hydrogels. The present study indicates that the hydrogels containing MNPs can be potentially used as an efficient absorbent material for removal of cationic dyes from waste water. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:776–785, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Demolding forces for micron‐sized features during micro‐injection molding
Authors: Su Quanliang , Gilchrist Michael D.
Published: April 2016

This article studied the demolding of an array of injection molded micro‐structures based on a design of experiments (DOE) method. The demolding force (Fd) to eject an array of 4 × 5 micro‐ridges from the cavity of a mold was calculated indirectly. It was found that mold temperature had a significant effect on the demolding force: the demolding force decreased as mold temperature increased and as the part substrate thickness also increased. The demolding force is a combination of the adhesion force and friction force that exist between a molded feature and the microcavities of a mold. When the processing parameters were optimized to minimize the demolding force during the ejection process, it was found that the adhesion force had a bigger influence than the friction force. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 56:810–816, 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Obesity‐initiated metabolic syndrome promotes urinary voiding dysfunction in a mouse model
Authors: He Qiqi , Babcook Melissa A. , Shukla Sanjeev , Shankar Eswar , Wang Zhiping , Liu Guiming , Erokwu Bernadette O. , Flask Chris A. , Lu Lan , Daneshgari Firouz , MacLennan Gregory T. , Gupta Sanjay
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

Accumulating evidences suggests that obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) contribute towards lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) through alterations in the phenotype of bladder and prostate gland. Clinical studies indicate a link between MetS and LUTS. Nevertheless, there is lack of suitable animal model(s) which could illustrate an association linking obesity to LUTS. We examined the lower urinary tract function in an obesity‐initiated MetS mouse model.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6N wild‐type and obese B6.V‐Lepob/J maintained on regular diet for 28 weeks were subjected to the assessment of body weight (BW), body length (BL), waist circumference (WC), body mass index (BMI), blood glucose (BG), plasma insulin (INS), plasma leptin (LEP), total cholesterol (CHO), free fatty acid (FFA), and measurement of urinary functions. Whole animal peritoneal and subcutaneous adipose tissue measurements as well as prostate and bladder volumes were analyzed by MRI followed by histological evaluation. These parameters were used to draw correlations between MetS and LUTS.

RESULTS

Obesity parameters such as BW, WC, and BMI were significantly higher in B6.V‐Lepob/J mice compared to C57BL/6N mice (P < 0.01). Higher levels of total CHO and FFA were noted in B6.V‐Lepob/J mice than C57BL/6N mice (P < 0.05). These results were concurrent with frequency, lower average urine volume and other urinary voiding dysfunctions in B6.V‐Lepob/J mice. MRI assessments demonstrate marked increase in body fat and prostate volume in these mice. Compared to C57BL/6N mice, histological analysis of the prostate from B6.V‐Lepob/J mice showed increased proliferation, gland crowding, and infiltration of immune cells in the stroma; whereas the bladder urothelium was slightly thicker and appears more proliferative in these mice. The regression and correlation analysis indicate that peritoneal fat (R = 0.853; P < 0.02), CHO (R = 0.729; P < 0.001), BG (R = 0.712; P < 0.001) and prostate volume (R = 0.706; P < 0.023) strongly correlate with LUTS whereas BMI, WC, INS, and FFA moderately correlate with the prevalence of bladder dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that LUTS may be attributable in part to obesity and MetS. Validation of an in vivo model may lead to understand the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of obesity‐related LUTS in humans. Prostate 76:964–976, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rare‐earth and Nb doping of TiO2 nanocrystalline mesoscopic layers for high‐efficiency dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Kozlov Sergey , Nikolskaia Anna , Larina Liudmila , Vildanova Marina , Vishnev Alexei , Shevaleevskiy Oleg
Published: April 2016

The improvement of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) performance can be realized by using rare‐earth and Nb‐doped TiO2 mesoporous photoelectrodes. The undoped, Nb‐doped, and rare‐earth‐doped TiO2 mesoscopic layers were prepared using a sol–gel method followed by a hydrothermal treatment. The Nb content was varied from 0.7 to 2.7 mol.%. The samples of complex rare‐earth titanium oxides with fluorite‐like structure containing Nb were synthesized using mechanical activation method. A series of fluorite‐like Sm2[TixNb1–x]2O7 compounds with varied Nb content was synthesized. The structure and morphology of obtained materials were characterized using XRD, SEM, and optical absorption spectroscopy. The prepared TiO2 mesoscopic layers were used for fabrication DSSCs. We have found that the photovoltaic parameters of DSSCs based on TiO2 sensitized with N719 dye, are closely related to the electronic structure of the Nb‐doped TiO2 electrodes. The changes of short circuit current of DSSCs were explained in relation to the electronic structure of the TiO2 electrodes. We have shown that the Nb doping enhances the junctions between neighboring nanoparticles and decreases the bulk electrical resistivity of the TiO2 electrodes. For the TiO2 electrodes doped with Nb the best DSSC performance with the energy conversion efficiency of 9.7% was obtained for Ti0.983Nb0.017O2 compound with 1.7 mol.% of Nb. Thus we have improved the device efficiency by 9% in comparison with the DSSC based on undoped TiO2 electrode. The developed rare‐earth doped compounds SmTiNbO were also used for fabrication and characterization of DSSCs. However, unlike Nb‐doped TiO2 layers, the efficiencies of DSSCs based on Nb‐doped complex rare‐earth titanium oxides were low in comparison with undoped TiO2.
On the Use of Machine Learning to Detect Shocks in Road Vehicle Vibration Signals
Authors: Lepine Julien , Rouillard Vincent , Sek Michael
Published: April 2016

The characterization of transportation hazards is paramount for protective packaging validation. It is used to estimate and simulate the loads and stresses occurring during transport that are essential to optimize packaging and ensure that products will resist the transportation environment with the minimum amount of protective material. Characterizing road transportation vibrations is rather complex because of the nature of the dynamic motion produced by vehicles. For instance, different levels of vibration are induced to freight depending on the vehicle speed and the road surface; which often results in non‐stationary random vibration. Road aberrations (such as cracks, potholes and speed bumps) also produce transient vibrations (shocks) that can damage products. Because shocks and random vibrations cannot be analysed with the same statistical tools, the shocks have to be separated from the underlying vibrations. Both of these dynamic loads have to be characterized separately because they have different damaging effects. This task is challenging because both types of vibration are recorded on a vehicle within the same vibration signal.

This paper proposes to use machine learning to identify shocks present in acceleration signals measured on road vehicles. In this paper, a machine learning algorithm is trained to identify shocks buried within road vehicle vibration signals. These signals are artificially generated using non‐stationary random vibration and shock impulses that reproduce typical vehicle dynamic behaviour. The results show that the machine learning algorithm is considerably more accurate and reliable in identifying shocks than the more common approaches based on the crest factor. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study of ceramic‐like aluminum oxide thin films developed using plasma electrolytic oxidation applied on austenitic steels
Authors: Andrei Victor Aurel , Coaca Elisabeta , Mihalache Maria , Malinovschi Viorel , Patrascu‐Minca Mariana
Published: April 2016

Austenitic steels 304 L and 316 L are used extensively as nuclear structural materials. The objective of this study is to determine if their corrosion behavior can be improved by developing an Al‐containing surface layer by a complex surface treatment, including substrate modification by growth of oxide layers using anodic oxidation, cyclic voltammetry and autoclaving in water, as well as a micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) treatment in 0.1 M NaAlO2 aqueous solution. The processes and structures obtained by MAO under various experimental conditions were characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry analysis. The corrosion behavior, studied by Tafel potentiodynamic polarization, was correlated to the microstructure and the chemical composition of the surface layers which are strongly dependent on the treatment parameters. An overall description of the electrochemical processes involved in the growth of aluminum coating, the surface properties improvement, together with some consideration about the new materials development for energy technologies are presented. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First use of data fusion and multivariate analysis of ToF‐SIMS and SEM image data for studying deuterium‐assisted degradation processes in duplex steels
Authors: Sobol Oded , Holzlechner Gerald , Holzweber Markus , Lohninger Hans , Boellinghaus Thomas , Unger Wolfgang E. S.
Published: April 2016

Time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) and high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy are well‐acknowledged tools in materials characterization. The ability to map chemical species on the surface of an investigated sample with often low mass detection limits makes ToF‐SIMS an essential tool in fields where many question marks concerning degradation processes and damage mechanisms exist. The aim of this paper is to describe the power of data fusion of ToF‐SIMS and high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy results employing computational methods for multivariate data analysis such as principal component analysis. As a case study the investigation of hydrogen distribution in an artificially charged duplex stainless steel microstructure is presented aiming on a better understanding of hydrogen embrittlement. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.