bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A facile synthesis of novel 5‐substituted pyridine 2 carboxamide derivatives and their biological evaluation and 3D QSAR studies
Authors: Dharman Prabu , Babu Visagamoorthy , Basha K. Anver
Published: October 2018

A variety of novel 5‐substituted pyridine 2 carboxamides were designed and synthesized using both normal and solvent‐free microwave (MW) irradiation techniques. The results revealed that MW protocol proceeded smoothly under mild reaction conditions in short reaction times, thus avoiding the use of toxic organic solvents. Structural elucidation of the synthesized compounds was carried out on the basis of various spectroscopic methods, such as 1H NMR, 13C NMR, LCMS, and IR. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activity (MIC) using the agar disk diffusion method. Among the various synthetic compounds, compound 3b showed higher potential activity against Escherichia coli than the other compounds. The order of activity against E. coli of the studied compounds is 3b > 3e > 3g > 3h > 3d > 3c > 3a > 3f. Additionally, 2D and 3D structural features of the synthesized derivatives were recognized by the 3D‐QSAR model. This validated model exhibited good internal (r2, 0.924) and external prediction (r2pred, 0.851) correlation. The results of QSAR studies concluded that Alog P, the number of hydrogen bond acceptors, and the number of rotatable bonds were necessary features for the activity of the pyridine carboxamide derivatives.
Isolated elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in an asymptomatic patient due to macro‐AST
Authors: González Raya Arturo , Coca Zúñiga Ramón , Martín Salido Eva
Published: October 2018

Background

A rare and benign cause of isolated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) increase is due to the presence of macro aspartate aminotransferase (macro‐AST). Macro‐AST is not usually considered by clinicians, leading to a large number of unnecessary and even invasive tests before diagnosed. Most commonly used laboratory methods for detection of macro‐enzymes are precipitation with polyethylene glycol (PEG), ultracentrifugation and gel filtration chromatography (GFC).

Methods

We report a case of an asymptomatic patient with persistent isolated AST elevation. PEG precipitation and an alternative method based on the low stability of this macro‐enzyme were performed on the patient serum.

Results

Macro‐AST was early detected by the laboratory observing a significant decrease in AST concentrations when the serum is stored at 4ºC.

Conclusions

Macro‐AST detection based in this method can be very useful as screening, especially in those laboratories where other technologies are not available. Macro‐AST must be considered as cause of unexplained isolated AST elevations before prior investigations to avoid the consequent cost and potential harm to the patient. In our case, early detection of macro‐AST with this method avoided unnecessary treatment and invasive test such as liver biopsy.
Artificial light at night and captivity induces differential effects on leukocyte profile, body condition, and erythrocyte size of a diurnal toad
Authors: Gastón María S. , Pereyra Laura C. , Vaira Marcos
Published: October 2018

Light pollution or artificial lighting at night (ALAN) is an emerging threat to biodiversity that can disrupt physiological processes and behaviors. Because ALAN stressful effects are little studied in diurnal amphibian species, we investigated if chronic ALAN exposure affects the leukocyte profile, body condition, and blood cell sizes of a diurnal toad. We hand‐captured male toads of Melanophryniscus rubriventris in Angosto de Jaire (Jujuy, Argentina). We prepared blood smears from three groups of toads: “field” (toads processed in the field immediately after capture), “natural light” (toads kept in the laboratory under captivity with natural photoperiod), and “constant light” (toads kept in the laboratory under captivity with constant photoperiod/ALAN). We significantly observed higher neutrophil proportions and neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio in toads under constant light treatment. In addition, we observed significantly better body condition and higher erythrocyte size in field toads compared with captive toads. In summary, ALAN can trigger a leukocyte response to stress in males of the diurnal toad
M. rubriventris. In addition, captivity can affect the body condition and erythrocyte size of these toads.
Heating sensation in patients with and without spinal fixation devices during MRI examination at different magnetic field strengths
Authors: Yamaguchi Taiki , Abe Yuichiro , Ichino Yoshio , Satoh Shigenobu , Masuda Takeshi , Kimura Shoichi , Ito Manabu , Yamamoto Toru
Published: October 2018

Background

Radiofrequency (RF) heating during MRI theoretically increases with magnetic field strength. In addition, implanted metallic devices are reported to further increase RF heating. However, a detailed evaluation of this type of heating remains scarce in clinical practice.

Purpose

To assess possible risks and discomfort related to RF heating during MRI examinations of patients with and without metallic implantable devices.

Study Type

A retrospective study of previous questionnaire results on the heating sensation during MRI examinations of the lumbar spine.

Subjects

In all, 715 patients, of whom 101 had implanted lumbar spine fixation devices.

Field Strength/Sequence

1T and 3T/T1‐ and T2‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

The number of patients who perceived heating around the lumbar spine or other regions during the MRI examination.

Statistical Tests

A chi‐square test with respect to static field strength B0, presence of lumbar spine fixation devices, and duration of the MRI examination.

Results

The number of patients who perceived heating around the lumbar spine during the MRI examination significantly increased from 5.0% at 1T to 47.5% at 3T (P < 0.001), without a significant difference between patients with and without lumbar spine fixation devices (P = 0.23 at 1T, P = 0.48 at 3T), and regardless of the duration of the MRI examination (P = 0.88 at 1T, P = 0.15 at 3T).

Data Conclusion

Sensation of RF heating increased by around 10 times from 1T to 3T MRI examination, but the influence of implanted lumbar spine fixation devices on the RF heating sensation has not been observed.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:525–533.
Summarizing the 4D image stack of ultrafast dynamic contrast enhancement MRI of breast cancer in 3D using color intensity projections
Authors: Cover Keith S. , Duvivier Katya M. , de Graaf Pim , Wittenberg Rianne , Smit Ruth , Kuijer Joost P.A. , Hofman Mark B.M. , Slotman Ben J. , Verdaasdonk Ruud M.
Published: October 2018

Background

Each ultrafast dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI sequence for breast cancer generates thousands of images in a 4D stack that need to be reviewed by a radiologist.

Purpose

To assess whether color intensity projections (CIP) effectively summarizes—using only the time of arrival (ToA) and amount of signal enhancement (AoE) of the contrast agent—the thousands of ultrafast images.

Study Type

Retrospective cohort clinical trial.

Subjects

The study included 89 patients who had been scanned with an MRI beast protocol, of which 26 had breast cancer and 63 did not.

Field Strength/Sequence

The 115‐second ultrafast DCE sequence at 3T acquired 19 consecutive frames every 4.26 seconds with 152 slices per frame, yielding a 4D stack with 2888 2D images for each of water and fat.

Assessment

For each slice of the water 4D stack a single CIP image was generated that encoded the ToA in the hue (red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, blue) and AoE in the brightness. Each of three experienced radiologists assigned a Breast Imaging and Reporting Data System (BI‐RADS) score for each patient, first using only the CIP images, and subsequently using both CIP and the full 4D stack.

Statistical Tests

The one‐sided Fisher's exact test was used to determine statistical significance of both the sensitivity and specificity between the CIP alone and the CIP plus 4D stack.

Results

All malignancies were detected using only CIP by at least one of the radiologists. The CIP and CIP+4D sensitivities for reader 1 were 96% and 96% (P = 0.57), specificities were 59% and 65% (P = 0.29). For reader 2, the values were 96% and 100% (P = 0.51) with 62% and 71% (P = 0.17). For reader 3 the values were 92% and 96% (P = 0.50) with 51% and 62% (P = 0.07).

Data Conclusion

With a 95% sensitivity, CIP provides an effective summary of ultrafast DCE images of breast cancer.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1391–1399.
Bedside Echocardiography and Passive Leg Raise as a Measure of Volume Responsiveness in the Emergency Department
Authors: Bou Chebl Ralphe , Wuhantu Jeffrey , Kiblawi Shafeek , Carnell Jennifer
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the value of bedside echocardiography with a passive leg raise as a noninvasive marker of volume responsiveness.

Methods

This work was a prospective observational study of patients with end‐stage renal disease presenting to the emergency department. The left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) velocity time integral (VTI) was obtained. Measurements before and after dialysis as well as before and after the passive leg raise were recorded.

Results

Fifty‐four patients were enrolled, in whom the mean volume of fluid removed ± SD was 3.89 ± 0.91 L. In the predialysis cohort, the mean LVOT VTI was 28.05 cm (95% confidence interval [CI], 26.55–29.55 cm). After the passive leg raise, the mean VTI was 28.52 cm (95% CI, 26.98–30.07 cm). In the postdialysis cohort, the mean VTI was 30.31 cm (95% CI, 28.92–31.69 cm), and it increased to 34.91 cm (95% CI, 33.11–36.72 cm) after the passive leg raise. The Δ VTI values were 1.83% (95% CI, 0.12%–3.55%) in the predialysis group and 15.05% (95% CI, 12.76%–17.34%) in the postdialysis cohort. When stratified by fluid removal, the mean Δ VTI values after hemodialysis were 12.64% (95% CI, 9.79%–15.49%) and 16.84% (95% CI, 13.47%–20.22%) for patients who had less than 4 L and 4 L or greater removed, respectively. In patients without congestive heart failure, the Δ VTI was 15.28% (95% CI, 12.25%–18.32%), whereas for those with congestive heart failure, the mean change was 14.63% (95% CI, 10.91%–18.35%).

Conclusions

The LVOT VTI in conjunction with a passive leg raise seems to correlate with the volume status and volume responsiveness.
Informing snake roadkill mitigation strategies in Taiwan using citizen science
Authors: Yue Sam , Bonebrake Timothy C. , Gibson Luke
Published: October 2018

Despite their prevalence in roadkill in East Asia, there has been little research on snake mortality along roads, even though the region's fauna contains some of the highest proportions of threatened or data‐deficient reptiles. We analyzed citizen‐collected roadkill data from Taiwan, comprising >11,000 records of snake roadkill from 2006–2017. We used maximum entropy environmental niche modeling to predict roadkill sighting patterns across snake species differing in habitat use, foraging behavior, and taxonomic group. Roadkill sightings were highest in low to mid‐elevation (i.e., 0–2,000 m) forests and strips of farmland or shrubland that cut through forests; these areas likely support high snake abundances or dispersal activity. Sightings were lowest in urban areas and at high elevations (i.e., >2,000 m), likely because of unfavorable habitat conditions. Road density had little influence on roadkill sightings; areas with dense roads may be of lower habitat quality and contain fewer snakes. Roadkill sighting patterns differed among snake species with different habitat use and behavior. Natural history and landscape factors should be considered in roadkill mitigation design to reduce snake roadkill effectively. We recommend the use of similar citizen‐science projects elsewhere to supplement conservation planning. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Spotted owl foraging patterns following fuels treatments, Sierra Nevada, California
Authors: Gallagher Claire V. , Keane John J. , Shaklee Paula A. , Kramer H. Anu , Gerrard Ross
Published: October 2018

Western dry conifer forests continue to experience increased severe, stand‐replacing wildfire that is outside of historical precedent. Fuels treatments, landscape‐scale modifications of forest fuels and structure, are likely to remain a management tool to modify fire behavior and restore ecological resilience. The impacts of fuels treatments to listed species such as spotted owls (Strix occidentalis) remain uncertain and are contested because of limited available information. To evaluate spotted owl foraging habitat selection in a landscape recently modified by forest fuels‐reduction treatments, we radio‐marked and tracked 10 California spotted owls (S. o. occidentalis) for 2 years immediately following fuels treatment installation in the northern Sierra Nevada, California, USA. We categorized fuels treatments into 3 types: mechanical thin, installed within the study area as landscape‐scale fire breaks characterized by even tree spacing, open understory, and low canopy cover, or group selections; understory thin, a hand‐removal of small trees and shrubs; and understory thin followed by underburn, a controlled surface‐fuel burn that left the overstory intact. We described post‐treatment habitat using forest structural metrics derived from a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) dataset that was collected 1 year after fuels treatments were completed. We collected 436 spotted owl foraging locations during 2 breeding seasons and evaluated breeding season home range size and composition using a resource selection function. We assessed possible contributors to owl foraging patterns by comparinga priorihypotheses in an information‐theoretic approach and using randomly generated points that estimated available habitat. Spotted owl breeding season home ranges contained fuels treatments in proportion to their availability on the landscape and averaged 17.1% treated area. Within the home range, owl foraging locations in the post‐treatment landscape were best predicted by lower proportions of gaps than anticipated at random, steeper slopes, and minimized distance from the owl's site center. Our results suggest that moderate to high proportions of gaps, typically a feature of forest fuels reduction and restoration treatments, may reduce the probability of spotted owl foraging. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Phytoplankton responses to the 2014–2016 warming anomaly in the northeast subarctic Pacific Ocean
Authors: Peña M. Angelica , Nemcek Nina , Robert Marie
Published: October 2018

Significant changes in the abundance and composition of phytoplankton were observed along Line P in the northeast subarctic Pacific as a result of a rapid warming of surface waters in 2014–2015. This feature, labeled “the blob,” reached ~ 4°C above normal and restricted winter ocean–surface nutrient renewal due to increased stratification. As a result, surface nutrients were the lowest observed and nitrate depletion in summer extended farther offshore than in the last three decades. Within this nitrate‐depleted region, there was unusually low phytoplankton biomass and a dramatic increase in the dominance of cyanobacteria, including Prochlorococcus, which had not been previously observed in this region. Farther offshore, in the iron‐limited region, phytoplankton biomass and the abundance of haptophytes and chlorophytes increased during “the blob.” By 2016, surface nutrient and phytoplankton concentrations were still low, but at most of the stations, phytoplankton composition was similar to that observed before the warming occurred, except for an increase in diatoms farther offshore. These changes at the base of the food web could have ecosystem‐wide implications.
Synthesis of Well‐Defined Dihydroxy Telechelics by (Co)polymerization of Morpholine‐2,5‐Diones Catalyzed by Sn(IV) Alkoxide
Authors: Peng Xingzhou , Behl Marc , Zhang Pengfei , Mazurek‐Budzyńska Magdalena , Feng Yakai , Lendlein Andreas
Published: October 2018

Well‐defined dihydroxy telechelic oligodepsipeptides (oDPs), which have a high application potential as building blocks for scaffold materials for tissue engineering applications or particulate carrier systems for drug delivery applications are synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of morpholine‐2,5‐diones (MDs) catalyzed by 1,1,6,6‐tetra‐n‐butyl‐1,6‐distanna‐2,5,7,10‐tetraoxacyclodecane (Sn(IV) alkoxide). In contrast to ROP catalyzed by Sn(Oct)2, the usage of Sn(IV) alkoxide leads to oDPs, with less side products and well‐defined end groups, which is crucial for potential pharmaceutical applications. A slightly faster reaction of the ROP catalyzed by Sn(IV) alkoxide compared to the ROP initiated by Sn(Oct)2/EG is found. Copolymerization of different MDs resulted in amorphous copolymers with T
gs between 44 and 54 °C depending on the molar comonomer ratios in the range from 25% to 75%. Based on the well‐defined telechelic character of the Sn(IV) alkoxide synthesized oDPs as determined by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight measurements, they resemble interesting building blocks for subsequent postfunctionalization or multifunctional materials based on multiblock copolymer systems whereas the amorphous oDP‐based copolymers are interesting building blocks for matrices of drug delivery systems.
Cathodic delamination kinetics of thin polystyrene model coatings bound to zinc via organosilanes
Authors: Iqbal Danish , Rechmann Julian , Bashir Asif , Sarfraz Adnan , Altin Abdulrahman , Erbe Andreas
Published: October 2018

The cathodic delamination of poly(styrene) [PS] model coatings from oxide‐covered zinc has been evaluated by scanning Kelvin probe (SKP). Linear and acrylate cross‐linked PS model coatings covalently bound to zinc oxide via ZnOSi bonds have been prepared. PS was prepared by thermally initiated free radical polymerization in the presence of vinyltrimethoxy silane modified zinc. Cross‐linkers ethylene glycol diacrylate (EDA) and hexanediol diacrylate (HDA) were used in some preparations. Resulting polymers are 8–15 nm thick. PS model coatings show a delamination rate of only ≈20% of that of comparable poly(methyl methacrylate) [PMMA] samples. The slower cathodic delamination of PS is attributed to denser chain packing and higher amounts of hydrophobic moieties, leading to a reduction in penetration of corrosive species. As opposed to the situation in PMMA, the addition of HDA increases the delamination rate, due to its flexible chains and hydrophilic groups. The lowest delamination rate is observed in the presence of 25% EDA. Consequently, ester hydrolysis of acrylates accelerates delamination, it is however not the main factor in cathodic delamination of such thin model system.
KMnO4‐system etching process and electroless nickel plating on ABS
Authors: Chen Shixing , Zhu Qiyuan , Zhao Yinghai , He Jinmeng , Wang Guixiang
Published: October 2018

Etching treatment for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) resin and electroless nickel plating process have been studied. The ABS first was etched in a chromium‐free potassium permanganate etching system with different etching times. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and hydrophilicity test showed that the ABS is of moderate and homogeneous hole size after being etched at a temperature of 65 °C with 6 g L−1 potassium permanganate for 20 min. Then electroless nickel process was performed by immersing the ABS into in a Ni plating bath at 45 °C for 20 min at a pH of 8.5–9.5. The coating was even, dense, and reveals good corrosion resistance. In addition, the nickel plating adhesion strength reached 2.73 MPa. Therefore, the excellent performance of the KMnO4‐H2SO4‐H3PO4‐H2O etching system may replace the traditional chromic anhydride‐sulfuric acid etching system as an environmentally friendly process.
Dimensionally Stable Cellulose Aerogel Strengthened by Polyurethane Synthesized In Situ
Authors: Verdolotti Letizia , Stanzione Mariamelia , Khlebnikov Oleg , Silant'ev Vladimir , Postnova Irina , Lavorgna Marino , Shchipunov Yury
Published: October 2018

Fibrillary cellulose and nanocellulose are widely applied as fillers for the improvement of the mechanical properties, thermostability, and biodegradability of polymers. Here, an opposite concept is suggested which is to use cellulose for structure‐forming and directing the scaffold, whereas polymers serve for its modification. Cellulose possesses excellent properties, but they are badly affected by water; its mechanical strength drops sharply, cellulosic materials swell, become dimensionally unstable, and susceptible to fungal degradation. The deterioration of properties gives no way of using methods of wet chemistry for cellulose treatment. To obviate this problem, dimensionally stable aerogels are prepared from microfibrillated cellulose. Their stability allows them to be treated in solutions of isocyanate. Polyurethane synthesized in situ is attached covalently to cellulose through hydroxyl groups. Polymer coating further stabilizes the 3D microfibrillar network, Young's modulus increases by more than two orders of magnitude and differences in the properties of aerogels in the dried and wetted states are minimized. Improvement of the mechanical strength makes cellulose aerogels better suitable for various applications than present cellulosic materials.
Poly(glycolic acid) Nanofibers via Sea‐Island Melt‐Spinning
Authors: Huang Wei , Huang Xinxin , Wang Peng , Chen Peng
Published: October 2018

Poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) nanofibers are prepared via the high‐speed sea‐island melt‐spinning process for the first time. Poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) is chosen as the matrix (the“sea”phase) because of its superior spinnability and compatibility with PGA. The process includes melt‐spinning of PLLA/PGA blends at 1.0–2.5 km min−1, hot‐drawing of the as‐spun blend fibers (optional), and dissolving the PLLA phase in chloroform. At an optimal blend ratio, the process is readily conducted, producing ultrafine, uniform, and well‐aligned PGA nanofibers with high degrees of molecular orientation. Studies on morphology evolution of the blends reveal that the PGA phase presents initially as microgranules in the melt blends, breaks into nanogranules in the extruded filaments, and eventually deforms into nanofibers in the as‐spun and drawn fibers. The nanofibers show nearly constant diameters independent of take‐up speed, pointing to phase compatibility dominated mechanism which can be used to establish a viable and flexible production process.
Non‐autonomous forms and invariance
Authors: Dier Dominik
Published: October 2018

We generalize the Beurling–Deny–Ouhabaz criterion for parabolic evolution equations governed by forms to the non‐autonomous, non‐homogeneous and semilinear case. Let be Hilbert spaces such that V is continuously and densely embedded in H and let be the operator associated with a bounded H‐elliptic form for all . Suppose is closed and convex and the orthogonal projection onto . Given and , we investigate when the solution of the non‐autonomous evolutionary problem
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201700090:mana201700090-math-0010remains in and show that this is the case if
urn:x-wiley:0025584X:media:mana201700090:mana201700090-math-0012for a.e. . Moreover, we examine necessity of this condition and apply this result to a semilinear problem.
Expanding the Material Space of Biosustainable Poly(sophorolipids) by Modular Functionalization
Authors: Kunde Tom , Meesorn Worarin , Weder Christoph , Börner Hans G.
Published: October 2018

A general strategy to modify the structurally interesting poly(lactonic sophorolipid) (Poly(LSL)), a polymer derived from the biobased sophorolipid monomer, is presented. Effective backbone modification is achieved via a triazolinedione (TAD)‐ene‐reaction. This enables the straightforward introduction of various functionalities to the double bond in the fatty acid segment of the Poly(LSL). The reaction occurs quantitatively in stoichiometric ratios up to a targeted functionalization degree of 50% and complete functionalization of all double bonds is feasible when three equivalents excess of the TAD moiety with respect to the double bonds are used. It is shown that the thermal and mechanical properties of the modified polymers can be tailored via type and degree of functionalization. The exploited TAD ligation fulfills the criteria of an economic and efficient reaction, making the presented modification strategy straightforward to fine‐tune the material properties and extending the applicability of Poly(LSL) as a material.
Polymer Composites for Flexible Electromagnetic Shields
Authors: Sahu Kriti R. , De Udayan
Published: October 2018

Harmful electromagnetic (EM) interference (EMI) to living beings and various sensitive instruments by EM radiations from electronic and electrical gadgets and mobile towers is increasing rapidly. It inflicts illness, and presumably cancerous growth in human cells. EMI is minimized by wrapping the receiver and/or the emitter gaplessly by an efficient EM shielding sheet. Compared to the widely used and classical metallic shields, 2nd generation polymer composite EMI shields are lighter and more flexible. Conventional polymer composites use conducting polymers and metallic/carbon powders that have conducting electrons to reflect EM waves away. A polymeric binder, curing overnight to a soft and flexible sheet, has presently been selected for making the polymeric composites. We test EM shielding by certain non‐metallic composites. We review results for composites with fine metallic fibers (copper and brass turnings, available as waste from mechanical workshops) or conducting forms of cadmium oxide or ferroelectric materials (PbNb2O6 [o‐PN] & BaTiO3 [BT]) or their mixtures (52 samples). Small pieces of these cloth‐like polymeric sheets have been characterized in a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA), by measuring input power (Pin), the reflected power (Prefl), and the transmitted power (Pout), over five frequency bands in 700 MHz to 40 GHz range to find Shielding Effectiveness (SE) = 10 log (Pout/Pin) and Reflection Effectiveness = 10 log (Prefl/Pin). Success of o‐PN, BT, conducting (fired) Cd‐O, metallic turnings and their combinations has been discussed, highlighting some new observations. Composites, developed in this work, include EMI Shielding materials and potential Radar Absorption Materials.
Oligomalonate Plasticized Poly(Lactic Acid) Films: Crystallization, Thermal, and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Inácio Erika M. , Lima Maria C. P. , Souza Diego H. S. , Sirelli Lys , Dias Marcos L.
Published: October 2018

The biodegradable aliphatic oligoester oligo(trimethylene malonate) (OTM) is synthesized by polycondensation and used to plasticize poly(lactic acid) (PLA). Casting films of PLA and PLA/OTM with concentrations of 1, 5,and 10 wt.% are prepared, and these films are characterized by thermal analyses, rheology, and mechanical tests. DSC revealed that theTgof PLA films decreases with addition of the oligomer. A decrease of about 10 °C in theTgis attained when 10 wt% of the oligomer is added to the polymer. Addition of OTM to PLA slightly decreases the thermal stability and does not change significantly the degree of crystallinity (Xc) of the films. Dynamic‐mechanical analyses of these casting films show that the PLA/OTM systems presented lower storage modulus than PLA and mechanical test shows an increased in the elongation at break for PLA films containing the oligoester up to 200%. The results make possible to conclude that the oligomer synthesized from bio‐based monomers acts as a plasticizer of PLA increasing the PLA flexibility.
A Novel Approach for the Preparation of Poly(Butylene Succinate) Microparticles
Authors: Dutra Luciana , Nele Márcio , Pinto José C.
Published: October 2018

Studies regarding sustainability are growing, making the production of bio‐based polymer products, such as poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), a promising new alternative for sustainable development and manufacture of eco‐efficient products. In this context, the main objective of the present study is the production of PBS microbeads through a water‐free suspension polycondensation processes. The obtained results indicate that it is possible to produce PBS microbeads through polycondensation in heterogeneous media, overcoming the natural mass transfer limitations related to the removal of the condensation byproduct (water) from suspended particles, and simultaneously allowing for production of condensation polymer particles in the micrometric region. Besides, the proposed process route promoted shorter reaction times than conventional polycondensations and production of PBS microparticles with controlled sizes and molar mass distributions. The produced particles presented average sizes ranging from 80 to 180 μm, with melting points ranging from 105 to 112 °C and average molar masses around 1.3 × 104 Da.
Development and Characterization of Nanoemulsion Containing Almond Oil, Biodegradable Polymer and Propranolol as Potential Treatment in Hemangioma
Authors: Coelho Daiana S. , de Campos Vania E. B. , Freitas Zaida M. F. , Ricci Júnior Eduardo , Caarls Michelle B. , Lourenço Diaz Bruno , dos Santos Elisabete P. , de S. B. Monteiro Mariana Sato
Published: October 2018

Hemangiomas are benign tumors, which cause an abnormal proliferation of endothelial cells. In recent years, propranolol (POP) has been used for the therapy of infantile hemangiomas (IH). Topical POP has been prescribed instead of systemic steroids to reduce the risk of side effects. In order to increase the effectiveness of the POP, nanoemulsions (NEs) were developed as drug delivery carriers for topical delivery. NEs are stable dispersions consisting of oil, water and surfactants. To develop NEs water‐in‐oil, POP was solubilized in two concentrations, at 0.25 wt% and 0.5 wt% in water. To prepare the external phase, the almond oil, a biocompatible vegetable oil, was chosen due its anti‐inflammatory properties. An optimal proportion of surfactant and co‐surfactant, Tween 80/Span 80, were assessed by pseudo‐ternary phase diagram. NEs were obtained by ultrasonic processor and the mean droplet size was measured by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and it was less than 300 nm. POP was included in the best formulation for stability studies, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) studies, by the analysis of proton relaxation time, cell viability studies and occlusivity test. At the end of the work, the stable NEs, containing POP, diluted above 200 fold, did not affect cell viability and it can be considered as a promising formulation for the treatment of superficial infantile hemangioma.
Mechanical and Morphological Evaluation of the Reinforcement of Polycaprolactone With Different Cellulose Fibers
Authors: Aguiar Vinicius O. , de Fatima V Marques Maria
Published: October 2018

In the present work, polycaprolactone composites are prepared in a twin‐screw extruder with different amounts of cellulose fibers from several sources (obtained from lignocellulosic curauá and jute, commercial cellulose samples with different lengths, and amorphized cellulose obtained by ball milling), maintaining the processing time and temperature. X‐ray diffraction reveal that almost all cellulose fibers act as nucleating agents for the polymer matrix, resulting in increase crystallinity index of the composites. The experiments with the commercial cellulose fibers indicate that shorter fibers promoted stronger nucleation effect. At low content (2 wt%), the composite PCL‐amorphized cellulose has improve thermal resistance to degradation in relation to the neat PCL. Dynamic‐mechanical analysis shows an increase in the modulus of the composites containing 5 and 20 wt% fibers.
Permeability, Melt Flow Index, Mechanical, and Morphological Properties of Green HDPE Composites: Effect of Mineral Fillers
Authors: Escocio Viviane A. , Visconte Leila L. Y. , da Silva Nazareth Ana L. , de Sousa Ana M. F. , Pacheco Elen B. A. V.
Published: October 2018

In this study, two types of composites, both with the same polymeric matrix, high density polyethylene (HDPE) from renewable sources, also called green HDPE, are investigated. The mineral fillers insert into HDPE are vermiculite and titanium dioxide (TIO2). The objective of this work is the evaluation of two inorganic fillers in the HDPE composites and how their presence alters the properties of this HDPE derive from sugar cane ethanol. Composites obtain by extrusion with different contents of anatase type titanium dioxide (10–30 wt%/wt) and brazilian vermiculite (5–20 wt%/wt) are evaluated as for mechanical and morphological properties, melt flow index (MFI), and permeability. The addition of fillers cause little influence on tensile strength, but increased the elasticity modulus and decreased impact strength. in relation to morphology, it is found that particles of TIO2are well dispersed in the HDPE matrix. For composites with vermiculite, its distribution in the polymer matrix is not so good as compared with composites of TIO2, especially in proportions higher than 10 wt%. The results of MFI show that by adding vermiculite the fluidity of polyethylene does not change, but the addition of TIO2promotes a reduction in fluidity thus suggesting that a good dispersion has been achieved. Permeability increases on the addition of the two fillers, being more pronounced at high amounts (20% vermiculite and 30% TIO2). The analyzed properties, the addition of these fillers does not interfere negatively the properties of the green HDPE and can be considered an alternative toward low cost composites.
Characterization of the bacterial community composition in water of drinking water production and distribution systems in Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Van Assche Ado , Crauwels Sam , De Brabanter Joseph , Willems Kris A. , Lievens Bart
Published: October 2018

The quality of drinking water is influenced by its chemical and microbial composition which in turn may be affected by the source water and the different processes applied in drinking water purification systems. In this study, we investigated the bacterial diversity in different water samples from the production and distribution chain of thirteen drinking water production and distribution systems from Flanders (Belgium) that use surface water or groundwater as source water. Water samples were collected over two seasons from the source water, the processed drinking water within the production facility and out of the tap in houses along its distribution network. 454‐pyrosequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences revealed a total of 1,570 species‐level bacterial operational taxonomic units. Strong differences in community composition were found between processed drinking water samples originating from companies that use surface water and other that use groundwater as source water. Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum in all samples. Yet, several phyla including Actinobacteria were significantly more abundant in surface water while Cyanobacteria were more abundant in surface water and processed water originating from surface water. Gallionella, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas were the three most abundant genera detected. Members of the Acinetobacter genus were even found at a relative read abundance of up to 47.5% in processed water samples, indicating a general occurrence of Acinetobacter in drinking water (systems).
Roles of end‐binding 1 protein and gamma‐tubulin small complex in cytokinesis and flagella formation of Giardia lamblia
Authors: Kim Juri , Park Soon‐Jung
Published: October 2018

Giardia lamblia is a unicellular organism with two nuclei, a median body, eight flagella, and an adhesive disk. γ‐Tubulin is a microtubule (MT)‐nucleating protein that functions in the γ‐tubulin small complex (γ‐TuSC) in budding yeast. In this study, G. lamblia γ‐tubulin (Glγ‐tubulin) was found to bind to another MT‐binding protein, namely G. lamblia end‐binding protein 1 (GlEB1), via both in vivo and in vitro assays. Hemagglutinin (HA)‐tagged Glγ‐tubulin localized to the basal bodies, axonemes, and median bodies of G. lamblia trophozoites. The knockdown of Glγ‐tubulin expression using an anti‐Glγ‐tubulin morpholino resulted in a decreased growth rate and an increased failed cytokinesis cells of Giardia. The formation of median bodies was affected, and the central pair of MTs in flagella was frequently missing in the Giardia treated with an anti‐Glγ‐tubulin morpholino. G. lamblia γ‐tubulin complex protein 2 (GlGCP2) and GlGCP3, which are putative components of γ‐TuSC, were co‐immunoprecipitated with HA‐tagged Glγ‐tubulin in Giardia extracts. The knockdown of GlGCP2 and GlGCP3 expression also resulted in decreased formation of both the median body and flagella MTs. Knockdown of Glγ‐tubulin, GlGCP2, and GlGCP3 expression affected localization of GlEB1 in G. lamblia. In addition, decreased level of GlEB1 caused reduced formation of median body and the central pair of flagella MTs. These results indicated that Glγ‐tubulin plays a role in MT nucleation for median body formation and flagella biogenesis as a component of Glγ‐TuSC in Giardia and GlEB1 may be involved in this process.
Identification and characterization of a carnitine transporter in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Breisch Jennifer , Waclawska Izabela , Averhoff Beate
Published: October 2018

The opportunistic pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii is able to grow on carnitine. The genes encoding the pathway for carnitine degradation to the intermediate malic acid are known but the transporter mediating carnitine uptake remained to be identified. The open reading frame HMPREF0010_01347 (aci01347) of Acinetobacter baumannii is annotated as a gene encoding a potential transporter of the betaine/choline/carnitine transporter (BCCT) family. To study the physiological function of Aci01347, the gene was deleted from A. baumannii ATCC 19606. The mutant was no longer able to grow on carnitine as sole carbon and energy source demonstrating the importance of this transporter for carnitine metabolism. Aci01347 was produced in Escherichia coli MKH13, a strain devoid of any compatible solute transporter, and the recombinant E. coli MKH13 strain was found to take up carnitine in an energy‐dependent fashion. Aci01347 also transported choline, a compound known to be accumulated under osmotic stress. Choline transport was osmolarity‐independent which is consistent with the absence of an extended C‐terminus found in osmo‐activated BCCT. We propose that the Aci01347 is the carnitine transporter mediating the first step in the growth of A. baumannii on carnitine.
Lipidic prodrug approach for improved oral drug delivery and therapy
Authors: Markovic Milica , Ben‐Shabat Shimon , Keinan Shahar , Aponick Aaron , Zimmermann Ellen M. , Dahan Arik
Published: October 2018

In the past, a prodrug design was used as a last option to improve bioavailability through controlling transport, distribution, metabolism, or other mechanisms. Prodrugs are currently used even in early stages of drug development, and a significant percentage of all drugs in the market are prodrugs. The focus of this article is lipidic prodrugs, a strategy whereby a lipid carrier is covalently bound to the drug moiety. The increased lipophilicity of the lipid‐drug conjugate can improve the pharmacokinetic profile and provide meaningful advantages: increased absorption across biological barriers, prolonged circulation half‐life, selective distribution profile (eg brain penetration), reduced hepatic first‐pass metabolism, and overall enhanced bioavailability of the parent drug. Moreover, lipidic prodrugs may join the endogenous lipid trafficking pathways, thereby facilitate drug targeting, either by selective absorption pathway (eg lymphatic transport) or drug release at specific target site(s). The different lipid‐drug conjugates (triglyceride‐, fatty acids, phospholipid‐, and steroid‐based prodrugs), the physiological barriers that challenge the absorption of these conjugates, followed by their current utilization and potential clinical benefits are described and analyzed, and future opportunities this approach could provide are discussed. Altogether, lipidic prodrugs represent an exciting approach for improving different aspects of oral drug delivery/therapy and may provide solutions for various unmet needs; the use of this strategy is expected to grow.
Multipathway multi‐echo (MPME) imaging: all main MR parameters mapped based on a single 3D scan
Authors: Cheng Cheng‐Chieh , Preiswerk Frank , Hoge W. Scott , Kuo Tai‐Hsin , Madore Bruno
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Quantitative parameter maps, as opposed to qualitative grayscale images, may represent the future of diagnostic MRI. A new quantitative MRI method is introduced here that requires a single 3D acquisition, allowing good spatial coverage to be achieved in relatively short scan times.

Methods

A multipathway multi‐echo sequence was developed, and at least 3 pathways with 2 TEs were needed to generate T1, T2, T2*, B1+, and B0 maps. The method required the central k‐space region to be sampled twice, with the same sequence but with 2 very different nominal flip angle settings. Consequently, scan time was only slightly longer than that of a single scan. The multipathway multi‐echo data were reconstructed into parameter maps, for phantom as well as brain acquisitions, in 5 healthy volunteers at 3 T. Spatial resolution, matrix size, and FOV were 1.2 × 1.0 × 1.2 mm3, 160 × 192 × 160, and 19.2 × 19.2 × 19.2 cm3 (whole brain), acquired in 11.5 minutes with minimal acceleration. Validation was performed against T1, T2, and T2* maps calculated from gradient‐echo and spin‐echo data.

Results

In Bland‐Altman plots, bias and limits of agreement for T1 and T2 results in vivo and in phantom were −2.9/±125.5 ms (T1 in vivo), −4.8/±20.8 ms (T2 in vivo), −1.5/±18.1 ms (T1 in phantom), and −5.3/±7.4 ms (T2 in phantom), for regions of interest including given brain structures or phantom compartments. Due to relatively high noise levels, the current implementation of the approach may prove more useful for region of interest–based as opposed to pixel‐based interpretation.

Conclusions

We proposed a novel approach to quantitatively map MR parameters based on a multipathway multi‐echo acquisition.
Adherence to pediatric acute chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting guidelines in Canadian hospitals
Authors: McKinnon Krista , Jupp Jennifer , Ghosh Sunita , Digout Carol , Eason Stephanie , Romanick Marcel
Published: October 2018

Background

Chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) impacts quality of life for patients. Guidelines for emetogenicity classification and prevention of CINV in children were recently published and endorsed by pediatric oncology organizations.

Procedure

A multicenter chart review was performed at four Canadian pediatric oncology centers examining rates of prescribing adherence to CINV guidelines between January 2012 and December 2015. Eligible patients received their first chemotherapy course of highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC).

Results

Guideline adherence was described in 204 patients as antiemetic‐only guideline adherence (AGA; examined medication/class prescribed only) and complete guideline adherence (CGA; examined medication/class, dose, frequency, and duration prescribed). Adherence was 29% (HEC 30%, MEC 19%, P = 0.1) and 2% for AGA and CGA patients, respectively. Vomiting in the first 24 h was experienced by 24% of AGA and 34% of non‐AGA patients (P = 0.13), with mean breakthrough medication doses similar between AGA and non‐AGA groups (HEC 1.8 vs 1.5, P = 0.45; MEC 3 vs 1.42, P = 0.35). In the first 24 h, HEC AGA patients achieved a complete control rate of 37% vs 45% for non‐AGA patients (P = 0.31), while patients receiving AGA therapy for MEC achieved a complete control rate of 80% vs 24% for non‐AGA patients (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Adherence to guidelines was low across all four pediatric institutions. Each center used different approaches to implement pediatric CINV guidelines. Complete CINV control was low, with reports of emesis high, indicating that patients are not receiving optimal treatment.
Prolonged response to sorafenib in a patient with refractory metastatic osteosarcoma and a somatic PDGFRA D846V mutation
Authors: Armstrong Amy E. , Walterhouse David O. , Leavey Patrick J. , Reichek Jennifer , Walz Amy L.
Published: October 2018

Outcome for patients with metastatic or recurrent/refractory osteosarcoma remains poor. Responses to sorafenib, a multikinase inhibitor, have been seen in recurrent/refractory osteosarcoma, although specific biomarkers of response have not been described. We report a partial response in a 7‐year‐old with refractory osteosarcoma treated with sorafenib 200 mg twice daily. Toxicities included Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events Grade 2 skin toxicities and growth suppression. After 51 months of therapy, he suffered a recurrence. Tumor sequencing later revealed a PDGFRA D846V mutation that was not identified in the relapse specimen. This case demonstrates prolonged partial response to sorafenib and provides a potential biomarker for response.
Evaluation of cardiopulmonary exercise testing, heart function, and quality of life in children after allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Vandekerckhove Kristof , De Waele Kathleen , Minne Aurelie , Coomans Ilse , De Groote Katya , Panzer Joseph , Dhooge Catherine , Bordon Victoria , De Wolf Daniel , Boone Jan
Published: October 2018

Background

Physical fitness is an important determinant of quality of life (QOL) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Cardiac function can influence exercise performance. The aim of this study was to assess these factors and their interrelationship.

Procedure

Children underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) at least 1 year after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and were compared with healthy controls. Systolic and diastolic heart function and left ventricle (LV) wall dimensions were measured. Health‐related QOL (HR‐QOL) was evaluated using PedsQL questionnaires.

Results

Forty‐three patients performed CPET (26 boys, 13.6 ± 3.4 years, weight 45.5 ± 13.3 kg, length 152.9 ± 17.5 cm, body surface area 1.35 ± 0.28). HSCT patients had lower maximal oxygen consumption (VO2peak/kg, 34.7 ± 8.4 vs 46.3 ± 7.1 mL/kg/min, P < 0.001), shorter exercise duration (9.1 ± 2.5 vs 12.9 ± 2.6 min, P < 0.001), and lower maximal load (%Ppeak 70.8 ± 19.7 vs 102.4% ± 15.9%, P < 0.001). Echocardiography demonstrated decreased interventricular septal wall thickness (interventricular septum in diastole [IVSd] Z‐value −0.64 ± 0.69, P < 0.001), and more systolic (11% of patients) and diastolic dysfunction (high E/E’ Z‐value 1.06 ± 1.13, P < 0.001). LV dilatation correlates with VO2max/kg (r = −0.364, P = 0.017). HR‐QOL showed lower overall and emotional functioning scores (respectively, P = 0.016 and P = 0.001). Patients after anthracycline therapy have the lowest maximal exercise performance, but have no difference in QOL. Diminished exercise performance is not encountered as a QOL limitation. Total body irradiation influences the domain of psychosocial functioning.

Conclusions

LV (systolic and diastolic) and right ventricle dysfunctions justify the need for thorough cardiac follow‐up in children after HSCT. Lower physical fitness levels and lower HR‐QOL emphasize the importance of CPET and fitness programs.