bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapalog combined with CCR4 antagonist improves anticancer vaccines efficacy
Authors: Beziaud Laurent , Boullerot Laura , Tran Thi , Mansi Laura , Marie‐Joseph Elodie Lauret , Ravel Patrice , Johannes Ludger , Bayry Jagadeesh , Tartour Eric , Adotévi Olivier
Published: September 2018

mTOR pathway inhibitors such as rapalogs represent a promising tool to induce functional memory CD8 T cells. In our study, we investigated the combination of temsirolimus with anticancer vaccines. Using various designs of cancer vaccines (short and long peptides or the B subunit of Shiga toxin as an antigen delivery vector) and tumor models (melanoma, lung and colon cancer), we showed that the administration of temsirolimus efficiently decreased tumor growth and enhanced tumor‐specific CD8 T‐cell responses induced by vaccination. Furthermore, tumor‐specific CD8 T cells induced by the bi‐therapy (vaccine + temsirolimus) exhibit phenotypic characteristics of central memory (CD127+CD62L+) CD8 T cells compared to vaccination alone. We demonstrated that regulatory CD4 T cells (Tregs) expansion in vivo limits the efficacy of the bi‐therapy by altering the antitumor CD8 T‐cell responses. Finally, the use of a small molecule CCR4 antagonist to prevent Tregs induction considerably improved the efficacy of the bi‐therapy by enhancing CD8 T cells‐mediated antitumor immunity. Taken together, our study highlights the potential interest of combining cancer vaccines with drugs that promote memory CD8 T cells and inhibit Tregs.
Proteogenomic systems analysis identifies targeted therapy resistance mechanisms in EGFR‐mutated lung cancer
Authors: Treue Denise , Bockmayr Michael , Stenzinger Albrecht , Heim Daniel , Hester Svenja , Klauschen Frederick
Published: September 2018

Cancer precision medicine largely relies on knowledge about genetic aberrations in tumors and next‐generation‐sequencing studies have shown a high mutational complexity in many cancers. Although a large number of the observed mutations is believed to be not causally linked with cancer, the functional effects of many rare mutations but also of combinations of driver mutations are often unknown. Here, we perform a systems analysis of a model of EGFR‐mutated nonsmall cell lung cancer resistant to targeted therapy that integrates whole exome sequencing, global time‐course discovery phosphoproteomics and computational modeling to identify functionally relevant molecular alterations. Our approach allows for a complexity reduction from over 2,000 genetic events potentially involved in mediating resistance to only 44 phosphoproteins and 35 topologically close genetic alterations. We perform single‐ and combination‐drug testing against the predicted phosphoproteins and discovered that targeting of HSPB1, DBNL and AKT1 showed potent antiproliferative effects overcoming resistance against EGFR‐inhibitory therapy. Our approach may therefore be used to complement mutational profiling to identify functionally relevant molecular aberrations and propose combination therapies across cancers.
Plasma C‐peptide and glycated albumin and subsequent risk of cancer: From a large prospective case‐cohort study in Japan
Authors: Hidaka Akihisa , Budhathoki Sanjeev , Yamaji Taiki , Sawada Norie , Tanaka‐Mizuno Sachiko , Kuchiba Aya , Charvat Hadrien , Goto Atsushi , Shimazu Taichi , Inoue Manami , Noda Mitsuhiko , Tsugane Shoichiro , Iwasaki Motoki ,   for the JPHC Study Group
Published: September 2018

To elucidate the individual impacts of insulin and blood glucose on cancer risk, we investigated the association of plasma C‐peptide, a surrogated marker of insulin and glycated albumin (GA), a more stable marker of blood glucose, with all‐site and site‐specific cancer risk by mutually accounting for their confounding effects. The study was prospectively conducted with nearly 4,000 cancer cases arising in our population‐based cohort of 33,736 subjects who answered the baseline questionnaire and supplied blood samples. After exclusion of subjects with apparent DM, analysis was done in 3,036 cancer cases and 3,667 subcohort subjects. Among men and women combined, highest levels of C‐peptide were statistically significantly associated with an increased risk of all‐site [Hazard ratio (HR): 1.21; 95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.42], colon [1.73; 1.20–2.47], liver [3.23; 1.76–5.91], kidney, renal pelvis and ureter cancers [2.47; 1.07–5.69], compared to the respective lowest levels, after adjustment for GA levels. Among these C‐peptide‐related cancers, colon and liver cancers also showed an increased risk associated with elevated GA levels independently of C‐peptide levels. The corresponding HRs for colon and liver cancers compared to the highest and lowest GA levels were 1.43 [1.02–2.00] and 2.02 [1.15–3.55], respectively. Effect modification by gender was only evident for the association between C‐peptide and colon cancer (p for interaction = 0.04). Higher insulin levels, independently of higher blood glucose levels, may be relevant to DM‐related carcinogenesis for several cancer sites. Examination of circulating insulin levels is a plausible option in evaluating cancer risk even in individuals who have not developed DM.
Open Information Enterprise Transactions: Business Intelligence and Wash and Spoof Transactions in Blockchain and Social Commerce
Authors: O'Leary Daniel E.
Published: September 2018

This paper investigates what are referred to as ‘open information transactions’. Such transactions are in contrast to traditional transactions, where typically two parties to a transaction are the only ones with information about the transaction. For example, in a sale, the seller and the purchaser typically are the only ones with information about the transaction. However, some emerging technologies, such as blockchain accounting, supply chain social media, and hashtag commerce are making information about the transactions potentially openly available to others. This paper investigates some of the implications and strategies that include the use of that open information. For example, open information in accounting and supply chain transactions provides the potential for both business intelligence analysis of the information and possibly misleading and illusory transactions, analogous to those that have garnered the recent attention of the Justice Department in cryptocurrencies. Finally, this paper suggests that blockchain transaction processing will provide reliable information in those settings where there is a “single truth” feed of information flow for the phenomena of interest, no ability to do off‐blockchain transactions (or a large penalty cost) and limitation to a single identity for each enterprise on the blockchain.
(Under)Mining local residential property values: A semiparametric spatial quantile autoregression
Authors: Malikov Emir , Sun Yiguo , Hite Diane
Published: September 2018

Rock mining operations, including limestone and gravel production, have considerable adverse effects on residential quality of life due to elevated noise and dust levels resulting from dynamite blasting and increased truck traffic. This paper provides the first estimates of the effects of rock mining—an environmental disamenity—on local residential property values. We focus on the relationship between a house's price and its distance from a nearby rock mine. Our analysis studies Delaware County, Ohio, which, given its unique features, provides a natural environment for the valuation of property‐value‐suppressing effects of rock mines on nearby houses. We improve upon the conventional approach to evaluating adverse effects of environmental disamenities based on hedonic house price functions. Specifically, in the pursuit of robust estimates, we develop a novel (semiparametric) partially linear spatial quantile autoregressive model which accommodates unspecified nonlinearities, distributional heterogeneity, as well as spatial dependence in the data. We derive the consistency and normality limit results for our estimator as well as propose a consistent model specification test. We find statistically and economically significant property‐value‐suppressing effects of being located near an operational rock mine which gradually decline to insignificant near‐zero values at roughly a 10‐mile distance. Our estimates suggest that, all else equal, a house located a mile closer to a rock mine is priced, on average, at about 2.3–5.1% discount, with more expensive properties being subject to larger markdowns.
Bioabsorbable device to prepare subcutaneous pockets for islet transplantation
Authors: Kuwabara Rei , Iwata Hiroo
Published: September 2018

Small invasive transplantation of islets and long maintenance of the islet graft without immunosuppression has been studied for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. Clinically, subcutaneous pockets surrounding vascular‐rich tissue are prepared for islet transplantation using a device made of the materials. Here, gelatin sheets were implanted into two dorsal subcutaneous sites in diabetic ACI rats, and a mixture of bFGF and sodium hyaluronate solution was injected around the gelatin sheets. A total of 1500 islets isolated from F344 rats were transplanted into each of the pockets 7 days after injection of the bFGF mixture. Nine of 10 diabetic ACI rats with allogeneic islet graft demonstrated long‐term normoglycemia without administration of immunosuppressant. Gelatin sheets almost disappeared 67 days after implantation. Thus, subcutaneous immune‐tolerant sites can be prepared using gelatin sheets and a sodium hyaluronate–bFGF mixture. Allogeneic islets transplanted into the sites can survive and control blood glucose levels for a long period, even without immunosuppression. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 1107–1112, 2019.
How Power States Influence the Persuasiveness of Top‐Dog versus Underdog Appeals
Authors: Jin Liyin , Huang Yunhui
Published: September 2018

Although both top‐dog and underdog positioning appeals are widely used in marketing and advertising, little is known about which strategy is more effective in persuading consumers. By introducing a sense of power, a social variable that is inherently relevant to the nature of the top‐dog versus underdog classification, we propose that consumers' responses to these two appeals are influenced by their psychological experience of power. Specifically, low‐power consumers will respond to top‐dog appeals more favorably because associating with top dogs facilitates power restoration. In contrast, high‐power consumers will respond to underdog appeals more favorably because supporting underdogs facilitates power expression. In four experimental studies, we provide consistent support for our main predictions as well as the underlying processes. Studies 1 and 2 demonstrate the differential effect of consumers' power states on their attitudes toward top‐dog versus underdog appeals. Providing process evidence, Studies 3 and 4 identify boundary conditions under which the basic effect was eliminated. These findings contribute to the persuasion literature and power research and provide important implications for positioning strategy and advertisement development.
The ontogenetic scaling of form and function in the spotted ratfish, Hydrolagus colliei (Chondrichthyes: Chimaeriformes): Fins, muscles, and locomotion
Authors: Higham Timothy E. , Seamone Scott G. , Arnold Amanda , Toews Desiree , Janmohamed Zeanna , Smith Sara J. , Rogers Sean M.
Published: September 2018

The alteration of form and function through the life of a fish can have profound impacts on the ability to move through water. Although several studies have examined morphology and function in relation to body size, there is a paucity of data for chondrichthyans, an ancient group of fishes. Ratfishes are interesting in that they utilize flapping pectoral fins to drive movement, and they diverged from elasmobranchs early in the gnathostome phylogeny. Using the spotted ratfish, Hydrolagus colliei, we quantified the scaling of traits relevant for locomotion, including median and paired fin external anatomy, the musculature of the pectoral and pelvic fins, and the kinematics of the pectoral fins. Whereas pelvic fins scaled with either positive allometry (fin span and area) or isometry (fin chord length at the base of the fin), pectoral fin measurements either scaled with negative allometry (fin span and aspect ratio) or isometry (fin area and chord length). Correspondingly, all pelvic fin muscles exhibited positive allometry, whereas pectoral muscles exhibited a mix of isometric and positively allometric growth. Caudal fin area and body frontal area both scaled with positive allometry, whereas dorsal fin area and span scale with isometry. Pectoral fin amplitude during swimming exhibited isometry, and fin beat frequency decreased with body size. Our results highlight the complex changes in form and function throughout ontogeny. Finally, we highlight that hierarchical differentiation in morphology can occur during growth, potentially leading to complex changes in performance of a functional system.
Dietary supplementation with Rehmannia glutinosa affects the composition of intestinal microorganisms in common carp
Authors: Chang Xulu , Feng Junchang , Guo Xiangrui , Huang Mengyuan , Nie Guoxing , Zhang Jianxin
Published: September 2018

A feeding experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of Rehmannia glutinosa (RG) on the bacterial, archaeal, and fungal community composition in the gut of common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). Common carp were given a control diet and an RG‐supplemented diet (basal diet plus 4% prepared Rehmannia root powder) over a period of 80 days. Our results indicated that the bacteria Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Bacteroidetes; the archaea Crenarchaeota and Euryarchaeota; and the fungi Basidiomycota are the most abundant microbial taxa in the gut of common carp. Compared with the common carp fed a control diet, the common carp fed an RG‐supplemented diet contained a higher content of Akkermansia sp., and a lower proportion of Aeromonas sp. These results indicate that the consumption of a diet containing RG can lead to the accumulation of more beneficial microorganisms while inhibiting the growth of potential pathogens. Moreover, Crenarchaeota, the methanogenic, and Basidiomycota were detected in this study, these populations may be of high physiological relevance in carp because they have been implicated in human health and disease. Our results suggest that an RG‐supplemented diet changes the intestinal microbial composition of common carp, which could have positive effects on the immune response of carp.
Assigning precipitation to mid‐latitudes fronts on sub‐daily scales in the North Atlantic and European sector: Climatology and trends
Authors: Hénin Riccardo , Ramos Alexandre M. , Schemm Sebastian , Gouveia Célia M. , Liberato Margarida L. R.
Published: September 2018

Atmospheric fronts are fundamental features of the weather variability in the mid‐latitudes and are frequently associated with high‐impact weather events such as hail, wind gusts or precipitation. A method to link precipitation with synoptic‐scale fronts on sub‐daily timescales is developed based on ERA‐Interim data (1979–2016). A case study, a climatology and a trend analysis are presented and discussed. Spatially, an optimal attribution radius is identified based on a random sampling technique. The method is demonstrated using a past weather event that occurred over western Europe. Annual and seasonal cycles are presented and confirm, in agreement with previous studies, that frontal precipitation accounts for a large fraction of all precipitation (up to 80%) in the mid‐latitudes, especially during autumn and winter. Finally, a negative trend in frontal precipitation is identified, mostly affecting the Gulf Stream region. Cold fronts drive most of the observed trends in this region and the trend pattern suggests a polewards displacement of the zone of enhanced precipitation.
Variability of seasonal precipitation extremes over China and their associations with large‐scale ocean–atmosphere oscillations
Authors: Chen Ajiao , He Xinguang , Guan Huade , Zhang Xinping
Published: September 2018

The spatiotemporal variations of seasonal precipitation extremes during 1963–2013 over China and the possible teleconnections with large‐scale ocean–atmosphere indices are investigated by using the rotated empirical orthogonal functions, cross‐correlation analysis and stepwise variable selection methods. Results show that northwest China experiences the most frequent dry events but exhibits a wetting tendency in all seasons, while in south and central China, extreme wet conditions are remarkable in seasons except for winter but a drying tendency is found in spring and autumn. Precipitation extremes in four different seasons are influenced by the different combinations of large‐scale climate indices with different time lags, and their regional responses are complex when the climate indices are at different phases, such as winter heavy precipitation (R95p) in south of Nanling Mountain generally tends to be increased by the simultaneous positive El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTs) over South China Sea and positive Arctic Oscillation (AO) with 5‐month lag, while summer R95p in the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River Basin be decreased by the simultaneous negative SSTs over Bay of Bengal and positive AO with 9‐month lag. Besides, the dominant climate indices identified by teleconnection analysis can partly explain the temporal changes of seasonal extreme precipitation in China, which can be confirmed by very similar fluctuation in the oscillatory patterns of eight chosen couples with higher correlation coefficient, and their explanation skill is more powerful in sensitive areas highlighted in the leading spatial modes of corresponding precipitation index. Moreover, this explanation skill generally enhances as the cumulative contribution of leading four rotated modes to total variance of the target variable over whole study area increases. In addition, the precipitation indices related to precipitation amount can be better explained than those related to wet or dry spell by identified dominant climate indices.
Skin fiducial markers enable accurate computerized navigation resection of simulated soft tissue tumors: A static cadaveric model pilot study
Authors: Eccles Christian , Whitaker John , Nyland John , Roberts Craig , Carlson Jon , Zamora Rodolfo
Published: September 2018

Background

This static cadaveric model pilot study evaluated the agreement between planned and resected margins of simulated soft tissue tumors (SSTT) using skin fiducial markers for computerized navigation registration.

Methods

Markers were applied before magnetic resonance imaging scans of lower extremities implanted with SSTT. A navigation pointer was used for registration and to guide SSTT resection with approximately 10 mm planned margins. Digital calipers were used to measure resection margins. Kolmogorov‐Smirnov tests were used to confirm measurement normality. A one‐sample t test was used to determine measurement group differences (P ≤ 0.05). Bland‐Altman analysis and histogram plots compared planned and resected margins.

Results

Ninety‐eight resection margins were measured. The planned margin mean was 10.0 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] = 9.8‐10.2 mm) and the resected margin mean was 11.5 mm (95% CI = 11.0‐12.1 mm). One‐sample t test results identified a 0.75 mm, 95% CI = 0.5‐0.99 mm difference (P < 0.001). Good measurement agreement was observed with 94.9% (93/98) of resections occurring within two standard deviations of the mean measurement difference.

Conclusions

Skin fiducial marker use for computerized navigation system registration displayed promising results. With further research, these markers may become an effective, noninvasive method for aiding in soft tissue tumor resection.
Evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis using ultrasound radiofrequency data technology in patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Kaplanoglu Hatice , Özişler Cem
Published: September 2018

Objective

The present study aims to identify the cardiovascular risk associated with chronic inflammation and disease activity in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) using noninvasive ultrasonographic radiofrequency data technology.

Methods

In this study, a total of 87 participants, 38 patients with AS and 49 healthy controls, were evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography. Intima‐media thickness (IMT) and arterial stiffness were measured from the bilateral common carotid artery using the radiofrequency method.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found between the AS patients and healthy controls concerning the right common carotid artery, left common carotid artery, IMT, distensibility coefficient, elasticity coefficient, α and β stiffness indexes, and pulse wave velocities (P > .05). The symptom duration of the AS patients had a positive correlation that was moderate and was detected with the α stiffness index and pulse wave velocity (P < .05). The duration of diagnosis and treatment of the AS patients had a positive correlation that was moderate, was detected with the α stiffness index, the β stiffness index, and pulse wave velocity (P < .05). The mean IMT and elasticity coefficient values of the AS patients whose Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index score was 4 and above, were substantially higher than the values in the patients with scores lower than 4 (P = .038 and P = .33, respectively).

Conclusions

Subclinical atherosclerosis is not accelerated in AS patients with low disease activity, although insufficiently controlled disease activity may result in increased carotid IMT and atheromatosis. Radiofrequency data technology provides a noninvasive method for accurately and quantitatively demonstrating CCA‐IMT elevation and the decrease in vascular elasticity in patients with AS.
Comprehensive analysis of differential circular RNA expression in a mouse model of colitis‐induced colon carcinoma
Authors: Yuan Gang , Chen Tingjia , Zhang Haiqing , Cao Qinghua , Qiu Yun , Que Biao , Peng Sui , Chen Minhu , Ji Weidong
Published: September 2018

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have received increasing attention for their involvement in the pathogenesis of cancer; however, the characterization and function of circRNAs in colitis‐induced colon carcinoma remains largely unknown. A colitis‐induced colon carcinoma model was established in mice treated with azoxymethane‐dextran sodium sulfate (AOM‐DSS), and the circRNA profile was screened by next generation sequencing. Bioinformatic tools, including Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and network analysis were used to predict the functions of differentially expressed circRNAs and potentially coexpressed target genes. Among the detected candidate 3069 circRNA genes, 126 circRNAs were upregulated, and 108 circRNAs were down regulated in colon tissues from AOM/DSS mice compared to those from control mice. A total of six of these candidate circRNAs were validated by RT‐PCR. GO analysis revealed that numerous target genes including most microRNAs were involved in the Ras‐Raf‐MAPK pathway, actin cytoskeleton, focal adhesion, and additional biological processes. Our study revealed a comprehensive expression and functional profile for differentially expressed circRNAs in AOM/DSS induced colon carcinogenesis, indicating possible involvement of these dysregulated circRNAs in the development of colitis‐induced colon carcinoma. The mmu‐circ‐001226/mmu‐circ‐000287‐miRNA‐mRNA network may provide a potential mechanism for colitis‐associated colorectal cancer.
Celecoxib alleviates AKT/c‐Met‐triggered rapid hepatocarcinogenesis by suppressing a novel COX‐2/AKT/FASN cascade
Authors: Qiu Zhenpeng , Zhang Cong , Zhou Junxuan , Hu Junjie , Sheng Lei , Li Xin , Chen Liang , Li Xiang , Deng Xukun , Zheng Guohua
Published: September 2018

Previous studies have demonstrated that the selective cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor celecoxib shows efficacy against multiple cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma. However, whether celecoxib is effective in alleviating steatosis during hepatocarcinogenesis is unknown. In a rapid hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mouse model established via hydrodynamic transfection of activated forms of AKT and c‐Met proto‐oncogenes, we investigated the antisteatotic and anticarcinogenic efficacy of celecoxib in vivo. Multiple HCC cell lines were employed for in vitro evaluation. Additionally, immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, hematoxylin and eosin staining and Oil Red O staining were applied for mechanistic investigation. The results revealed that if celecoxib was administered in the early stage of AKT/c‐Met‐induced HCC, it resulted in disease stabilization. Moreover, celecoxib could alleviate lipid accumulation in the HCC mice and in an oleic acid‐induced in vitro hepatic steatosis model. Further evidence at the molecular level indicated that celecoxib down‐regulated the expression of phospho‐ERK (Thr202/Tyr204) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the HCC mice. In addition, celecoxib efficiently repressed the phosphor‐Akt (Thr308)/fatty acid synthase (FASN) axis both in vivo and in vitro. Altogether, this study suggests that celecoxib exerts its antilipogenic efficacy by targeting a COX‐2/AKT/FASN cascade, which contributes to its ability to delay hepatocarcinogenesis.
miR‐365 regulates liver cancer stem cells via RAC1 pathway
Authors: Jiang Ze‐Bin , Ma Bing‐Qiang , Liu Shao‐Guang , Li Jing , Yang Guang‐Ming , Hou Ya‐Bo , Si Ruo‐Huang , Gao Peng , Yan Hui‐Ting
Published: September 2018

Liver cancer stem cells (CSCs) were involved in tumorigenesis, progression, recurrence, and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). miR‐365 was downregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma and inhibited HCC cell proliferation and invasion. However, the role of miR‐365 in liver cancer stem cells was unknown. Herein, we observed a remarkable decrease of miR‐365 expression in CD133 or EpCAM‐positive liver CSCs as well as in CSC‐enriched hepatoma spheres. Up‐regulated miR‐365 suppressed liver CSC expansion by inhibiting the dedifferentiation of hepatoma cells and decreasing the self‐renewal ability of liver CSCs. Mechanistically, bioinformatic and luciferase reporter analysis identified Ras‐related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (RAC1) as a direct target of miR‐365. Overexpression of miR‐365 in hepatoma cells downregulated the RAC1 mRNA and protein expression. RAC1 also could promote the expansion of liver CSCs. The special RAC1 inhibitor EHop‐106 or RAC1 overexpression abolished the discrepancy in liver CSC proportion and the self‐renewal capacity between miR‐365 overexpression hepatoma cells and control cells, which further confirmed that RAC1 was required in miR‐365‐suppressed liver CSCs expansion. miR‐365 was downregulated in liver CSCs and could inhibit HCC cells dedifferentiation and liver CSCs expansion by targeting RAC1 signaling.
Perforating vessel as an alternative option of a recipient selection for posterior trunk‐free flap reconstruction
Authors: Lee Yoon Jae , Baek Seung Eun , Lee Junho , Oh Deuk Young , Rhie Jong Won , Moon Suk‐Ho
Published: September 2018

Background

The reconstruction of complex defects in the posterior trunk is a challenging problem. Various surgical methods using local flap, propeller flap, and muscle flap have been reported. However, in case where a free flap is inevitable, due to the absence of usable recipient vessels, eventually it may fail to perform or the use of long vessel graft is mandatory. To overcome this problem, we investigated use of perforator as recipient vessel in posterior trunk region and here we report satisfactory outcomes of the cases.

Patients and Methods

Eighteen cases with posterior trunk defects underwent reconstruction surgeries using various free flaps. Perforating vessels, from either the base or margin of the defect, were evaluated by preoperative computed tomography and hand‐held Doppler. During the dissection, preoperatively marked perforators, with visual healthy pulsation and appropriate diameter for anastomosis, were selected and used for a recipient vessel for free flap.

Results

Perforating vessels from the posterior trunk (0.8–1.3 mm in diameter) were used as recipient vessels and the average size of the defect was 85.2 cm2. In all cases, one artery and vein was used for anastomosis. No flap necrosis occurred. Hematoma developed in one case and partial wound disruption developed in 2 cases.

Conclusion

Surgical method using perforators as recipients for free flap reconstruction can be one of a good treatment option for posterior trunk reconstruction. We think that microsurgeons need not to hesitate when they use perforating vessel as a recipient vessel.
A dual‐tuned13C/1H head coil forPET/MRhybrid neuroimaging: Development, attenuation correction, and first evaluation
Authors: Oehmigen Mark , Lindemann Maike E. , Gratz Marcel , Neji Radhouene , Hammers Alexander , Sauer Michael , Lanz Titus , Quick Harald H.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a dual‐tuned13C/1H head coil for integrated positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance (PET/MR) neuroimaging. The radiofrequency (RF) head coil is designed for optimizedMRimaging performance andPETtransparency and attenuation correction (AC) is applied for accuratePETquantification.

Material and Methods

A dual‐tuned13C/1HRFhead coil featuring a 16‐rung birdcage was designed to be used for integratedPET/MRhybrid imaging. While the open birdcage design can be considered inherentlyPETtransparent, all further electronicRFcomponents were placed as far as possible outside of the field‐of‐view (FOV) of thePETdetectors. TheRFcoil features a rigid geometry and thin‐walled casing. Attenuation correction of theRFhead coil is performed by generating and applying a dedicated 3DCT‐based template attenuation map (μmap). Attenuation correction was systematically evaluated in phantom experiments using a large‐volume cylindrical emission phantom filled with 18‐F‐Fluordesoxyglucose (FDG) radiotracer. ThePET/MRimaging performance andPETattenuation correction were then evaluated in a patient study including six patients.

Results

The dual‐tunedRFhead coil causes a mean relative attenuation difference of 8.8% across the volume of the cylindrical phantom, while the local relative differences range between 1% and 25%. Applying attenuation correction, the relative difference between the two measurements with and withoutRFcoil is reduced to mean value of 0.5%, with local differences of ±3.6%. The quantitative results of the phantom measurements were corroborated by patientPET/MRmeasurements. Patient scans using theRFhead coil show a decrease ofPETsignal of 5.17% ± 0.81% when compared to the setup withoutRFhead coil in place, which served as a reference scan. When applying attenuation correction of theRFcoil in the patient measurements, the mean difference to a measurement withoutRFcoil was reduced to −0.87% ± 0.65%.

Conclusion

A dual‐tuned13C/1HRFhead coil was designed and evaluated regarding its potential use in integratedPET/MRhybrid imaging. Attenuation correction was successfully applied. In conclusion, theRFhead coil was successfully integrated intoPET/MRhybrid imaging and can now be used for13C/1H multinuclear hybrid neuroimaging in future studies.
Pancreatic perfusion and arterial‐transit‐time quantification using pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling at 3T
Authors: Taso Manuel , Guidon Arnaud , Zhao Li , Mortele Koenraad J. , Alsop David C.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of noninvasively measuring pancreatic perfusion using pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (ASL) and to derive quantitative blood‐flow and transit‐time measurements in healthy volunteers.

Methods

A pseudocontinuous ASL sequence with background suppression and a single‐slice single‐shot fast‐spin‐echo readout was acquired at 3 T in 10 subjects with a single standard postlabeling delay (PLD) of 1.5 s and in 4 additional subjects with 4 PLD from 0.7 to 2 s. An imaging synchronized breathing approach was used to minimize motion artifacts during the 3 min of acquisition. Scan‐rescan reproducibility was assessed in 3 volunteers with single‐delay ASL. Quantitative blood flow and arterial transit time (ATT) were derived and the impact of ATT correction was studied using either subject‐specific ATT in the second group or an average ATT derived from the group with multidelay ASL for subjects with single‐delay ASL.

Results

Successful ASL acquisitions were performed in all volunteers. An average pancreatic blood flow of 201 ± 40 mL/100 g/min was measured in the single‐delay group using an assumed ATT of 750 ms Average ATT measured in the multidelay group was 1029 ± 89 ms Using the longer, measured ATT reduced the measured flow to 162 ± 12 and 168 ± 28 mL/100 g/min with subject‐specific or average ATT correction, respectively. ASL signal heterogeneities were observed at shorter PLD, potentially linked to its complex vascular supply and islet distribution.

Conclusions

ASL enables reliable measurement of pancreatic perfusion in healthy volunteers. It presents a valuable alternative to contrast‐enhanced methods and may be useful for diagnosis and characterization of several inflammatory, metabolic, and neoplastic diseases affecting the pancreas.
The dual‐mode dipole: A new array element for 7T body imaging with reduced SAR
Authors: Solomakha Georgiy , Leeuwen Carel van , Raaijmakers Alexander , Simovski Constantin , Popugaev Alexander , Abdeddaim Redha , Melchakova Irina , Glybovski Stanislav
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To design and test an RF‐coil based on two orthogonal eigenmodes in a pair of coupled dipoles, for 7 Tesla body imaging with improved SAR, called dual‐mode dipole.

Methods

The proposed coil consists of two dipoles and creates two orthogonal field distributions in a sample (the even and odd modes). A coupler used to excite the modes was miniaturized with the conductor track routing technique. Numerical simulations of the dual‐mode dipole in the presence of a homogeneous phantom were performed. Moreover, an array of such coils was simulated with a voxel body model. For comparison, a fractionated dipole combined with a surface loop coil was also simulated. Both coils were tested in a 7 Tesla MRI system on a phantom. Subsequently four dual‐mode dipoles or dipole/loop combinations were used for a comparison of imaging performance in a human volunteer.

Results

Using the even mode of the dual‐mode dipole showed 70% SAR reduction in comparison to the fractionated dipole while having the same in the prostate region. The odd mode of the dual‐mode dipole showed a performance comparable to the surface loop both for SAR and B1 efficiency. The obtained results showed that the proposed coil while creating lower SAR gave images of the same quality as the reference coil.

Conclusions

It was demonstrated that the array of dual‐mode dipoles provided the same SNR and prostate imaging quality as the reference array, while demonstrating lower SAR. This is due to a smoother current distribution over a sample surface.
Electronic and Geometric Structures of Paramagnetic Diazadiene Complexes of Lithium and Sodium
Authors: Haeri Haleh H. , Duraisamy Ramesh , Harmgarth Nicole , Liebing Phil , Lorenz Volker , Hinderberger Dariush , Edelmann Frank. T.
Published: September 2018

The electronic and molecular structures of the lithium and sodium complexes of 1,4‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐2,3‐dimethyl‐1,4‐diazabutadiene (Me2DADDipp) were fully characterized by using a multi‐frequency electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy approach and crystallography, together with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. EPR measurements, using T1 relaxation‐time‐filtered pulse EPR spectroscopy, revealed the diagonal elements of the A and g tensors for the metal and ligand sites. It was found that the central metals in the lithium complexes had sizable contributions to the SOMO, whereas this contribution was less strongly observed for the sodium complex. Such strong contributions were attributed to structural specifications (e.g. geometrical data and atomic size) rather than electronic effects.
Preparation and properties of a novel addition‐curable phenolic resin containing boron element
Authors: Wang Chuankai , Zhang Bo‐xing , Luo Zhenhua , Zhang Yubei , Zhou Heng , Guo Ying , Zhao Tong
Published: September 2018

A novel addition‐curable novolac resin containing boron element (BPN) was successfully synthesized by a two‐step procedure, including addition‐condensation reaction between 4‐hydroxyphenylboronic acid and formaldehyde to obtain boron hybrid novolac resin (BN resin), and Williamson etherification reaction between the as‐obtained BN resin and propargyl bromide. Molecular structure of the BPN resin was characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, and gel permeation chromatography. Cure behavior of BPN resin was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to evaluate thermal and thermo‐oxidative stability of cured BPN resin. The results of TGA showed that the residual weight in nitrogen of cured BPN resin was 75.16% at 800°C, which was about 15% higher than that of conventional phenolic resin. Moreover, the residual weight in air of cured BPN resin was about 30% at 750°C; in contrast, conventional phenolic resin completely decomposed under the same condition, revealing that the cured BPN possessed excellent thermal and thermo‐oxidative stability.
Anomalous Behavior of the Elastic and Optical Properties in Bi1.5Sb0.5Te1.8Se1.2 Topological Insulator Induced by Point Defects
Authors: Zhevstovskikh Irina V. , Ponosov Yuri. S. , Titova Svetlana G. , Averkiev Nikita S. , Gudkov Vladimir V. , Sarychev Maksim N. , Kuznetsova Tatyana V. , Kokh Konstantin A. , Tereshchenko Oleg E.
Published: September 2018

The experimental evidence of the defects influence on the optical and elastic properties of single crystal Bi1.5Sb0.5Te1.8Se1.2 has been reported. The extra vibrational excitation is observed in the Raman spectrum near 125 cm−1. Its line width has increased substantially with the increasing temperature, and its frequency shows a sharp softening in the temperature range of 200–250 K. In the same temperature range, a large peak in attenuation of longitudinal ultrasound wave propagating along the trigonal axis and the anomalous behavior of elastic modulus C33 are found. These results indicate the presence of disorder in Bi1.5Sb0.5Te1.8Se1.2 induced by the bulk defects. The antisite and interstitial defects on Bi/Sb and Te/Se(1) sublattices have been considered as the most probable ones.
The Magnetic, Electronic, and Thermodynamic Properties of High Entropy Alloy CrMnFeCoNi: A First‐Principles Study
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zhang Ting , Hou Hua , Zhao Yuhong
Published: September 2018

A theoretical investigation into the electronic and thermodynamic properties of the high entropy alloy CrMnFeCoNi in nonmagnetic (NM) and ferrimagnetic (FIM) states based on first‐principles calculations has been implemented. Compared with the NM state, there is an obvious localized distribution of charges between Cr and Mn atoms with the lower valence electronic concentration (VEC) in the FIM state, showing covalent characters. Different spin‐polarized behaviors in compositional atoms have been proposed in the FIM state, suggesting the primary contribution to the total magnetic moment arises from the spin polarization of Fe d and Mn d states. Temperature‐dependent Debye temperature θD, heat capacity CV, and thermal expansion coefficient α as well as the total Helmholtz free energy F for both states have been investigated. Analysis of the contributions of configurational, electronic, magnetic, and vibrational free energy allows to infer the magnetic properties of the constituent atoms play an important role in the thermodynamics of CoCrFeMnNi high entropy alloy (HEA).
Photon‐Mediated Phonon Heat Current Between Distant Graphene Sheets Inserted Into a Cavity
Authors: Feng Peng
Published: September 2018

In this work, a mechanism of achieving phonon heat current between distant graphene sheets inserted into a cavity with two reflectors at different temperatures are presented. The photon‐mediated pseudospin interaction between two graphene sheets and electron–phonon interaction in each graphene sheet lead to the generation of this phonon heat current. We calculate the phonon heat current, thermal conductivity, and current–current correlation functions between distant graphene sheets. This phonon heat current can be manipulated by the energy flow density and frequency of photons. The giant heat current and thermal conductivity of phonons induced by intense photon field indicate that this mechanism has potential applications on the chip cooling, and far‐range heat transfer.
Modellierung von Hochspannungsstahlgittermasten mit nachträglich ergänzten Zusatzeckstielen
Authors: Mix Matthias , Yazici Fatih
Published: September 2018

Es gibt verschiedene Gründe, Hochspannungsstahlgittermaste zu verstärken. Einerseits müssen gelegentlich verminderte Beanspruchbarkeiten kompensiert werden. Andererseits können vergrößerte Beanspruchungen aufgrund vergrößerter Leiterseilquerschnitte, zusätzlich aufgelegter Leiterseile oder die Kenntnis erhöhter klimatischer Beanspruchungen eine Verstärkung erfordern. Während Diagonalstäbe ausgebaut und durch Stäbe mit größerem Querschnitt ersetzt werden können, ist bei unzulässig hoch ausgenutzten Eckstielen oft nur die Montage parallel zum vorhandenen Eckstiel verlaufender Zusatzeckstiele möglich. Die Bestimmung der Schnittkräfte im zu entlastenden Eckstiel und im Zusatzeckstiel ist eine anspruchsvolle Aufgabe. Eine Überschätzung des Entlastungseffektes des Zusatzeckstiels könnte für den vorhandenen Eckstiel zu einem Nachweis mit zulässiger Ausnutzung führen, obwohl mit tatsächlich höherer Stabkraft der Nachweis nicht gelänge. Bei der Schnittkraftermittlung zu berücksichtigende Aspekte sind die Außermitte des Zusatzeckstiels gegenüber dem vorhandenen Eckstiel, die Montage des belastungsfreien Zusatzeckstiels am bereits teilweise belasteten Eckstiel und außerdem, ob der Zusatzeckstiel eine Verankerung im Fundament erhält oder oberhalb der Fundamentoberkante mit einem Koppelelement zum vorhandenen Eckstiel endet. Die genannten Aspekte wurden modellstatisch an einem 1:1‐Modell untersucht. Der Einfluss der Verbindungsmittelart, mit welcher der Zusatzeckstiel am vorhandenen Eckstiel angeschlossen ist, wurde in weiteren Experimenten untersucht. Dieser Bericht beschreibt die Versuchsdurchführung und die Messergebnisse und entwickelt daraus ein Rechenmodell für die Schnittkraftermittlung am mit einem Zusatzeckstiel verstärkten Mast.
Surface Nanocoating with Plant‐Derived Pectins Improves Fibroblast Response In Vitro
Authors: Folkert Justyna , Mieszkowska Anna , Gaber Timo , Miksch Korneliusz , Dirscherl Kai , Gurzawska Katarzyna
Published: September 2018

Pectins, plant‐derived polysaccharides, are novel candidates for biomaterial nanocoatings. Their chemical structure imitates the polysaccharides from the extracellular matrix of mammals, providing bio‐specific cell adhesion. It is possible to control the structure of pectin rhamnogalacturonan‐I (RG‐I) by enzymatic modification. RG‐Is has been proposed for surface nanocoating of orthopedic and dental titanium implants due to its effect on osseointegration with stimulation of bone and connective tissue healing. The aim of the current study is to evaluate in vitro, the impact of plant‐derived pectin RG‐I nanocoating on the cellular response of human fibroblasts. In this study, unmodified RG‐I and enzymatically modified RG‐I with low amount of arabinose and high amount of galactose are examined. All in vitro studies are performed on tissue culture polystyrene plates, whose surfaces are coated with unmodified and modified RG‐I. The results show that the nanocoating with pectin RG‐Is increas proliferation, cell metabolic activity, and gene expression of COL1A1, FN1, FGFR1, BMP7, and MMP2 as compared to control surface, without pectin coatings. The results show that nanocoating with RG‐Is has the capacity to improve fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, and extracellular matrix protein production, and may therefore be considered as a potential candidate for further improvement of bone and connective tissue regeneration.
Efficient Conversion of Carbon Dioxide with Si‐Based Reducing Agents Catalyzed by Metal Complexes and Salts
Authors: Motokura Ken , Pramudita Ria Ayu
Published: September 2018

Homogeneous metal complex and salt catalysts were developed for the reductive transformation of CO2 with Si‐based reducing agents. Cu‐bisphosphine complexes were found to be excellent catalysts for the hydrosilylation of CO2 with polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS). The Cu complexes also showed high catalytic activity and a wide substrate scope for formamide synthesis from amines, CO2, and PMHS. Simple fluoride salts such as tetrabutylammonium fluoride acted as good catalysts for the reductive conversion of CO2 to formic acid in the presence of hydrosilane, disilane, and metallic Si. Based on the kinetics, isotopic experiments, and in‐situ NMR measurements, the reaction mechanism for both catalyst systems, the Cu complex and the fluoride salt, have been proposed.
Design and Catalytic Application of Functional Porous Organic Polymers: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Enjamuri Nagasuresh , Sarkar Santu , Reddy Benjaram M. , Mondal John
Published: September 2018

This review article encompasses the progress and conventional overview of current research activities of porous organic polymers (POPs), especially in catalysis, as they have garnered colossal interest in the scientific fraternity due to their intriguing characteristic features. Various synthetic strategies with possible modification of functionality of POPs have been used to improve the catalytic efficiency towards value‐added chemicals production. Accordingly, this review article is mainly focused on the design, development of various functionalized POPs by employing Friedel‐Crafts alkylation, FeCl3 assisted oxidative polymerisation and polymerisation in nonaqueous medium, and a comprehensive understanding in potential catalytic applications namely, acetalization, hydrodeoxygenation (HDO), hydrogenation, coupling, photocatalytic hydrogen evolution and biomass conversion towards the production of value‐added chemicals in biodiesel and chemical industries.
Development and evaluation of the organic chemistry‐specific achievement emotions questionnaire (AEQ‐OCHEM)
Authors: Raker Jeffrey R. , Gibbons Rebecca E. , Cruz‐Ramírez de Arellano Daniel
Published: September 2018

Affect is associated with success and persistence in STEM courses and degree programs. Measurement tools that produce valid and reliable data are essential to capturing the impact of evidenced‐based instructional practices and reformed curricula on learning. We report the development of the Achievement Emotions Questionnaire for use in postsecondary organic chemistry courses (AEQ‐OCHEM). Instrument development was based on the control‐value theory of achievement emotions and included a revision of the seminal Achievement Emotions Questionnaire (AEQ) used to measure institutional‐level learning. A thorough psychometric evaluation of the AEQ‐OCHEM was conducted including alternative measurement models and an extensive investigation of the nomological framework. All AEQ‐OCHEM subscales were determined to be coherent and distinct. Implications for future research using the AEQ‐OCHEM are offered. A call for the development of more discipline‐ and course‐based instruments is made. Finally, tools that measure achievement emotions in the context of instructional laboratories and undergraduate research are needed for more robust considerations of affect in STEM contexts.