bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Literature review: The distributed postproduction of cultural knowledge for artworks in online museums
Authors: Xiao Zhang , Deling Yang
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this study is to explore how online museums distribute the postproduction of cultural knowledge related to artworks in a network society. This study has implications for how online museums will adapt to the future development of knowledge societies. The core innovation of this study is exploring distributed knowledge postproduction in online museums from the perspective of Mode 2 knowledge production and online distributed knowledge production. This study will also examine distributed knowledge postproduction in online museums, which co‐constructs knowledge and meaning. This paper covers how online museums transform artworks into a resource for cultural postproduction through digital means and engage in Mode 2 knowledge postproduction. Online museums convey knowledge of artworks, creating narratives of phenomena, extending the aura of works of art, and increasing the volume of disseminated knowledge. Through the Semantic Web, online museums construct distributed online systems of knowledge, bringing together machines, technologies, and people and enriching the cultural understanding and innovation of systems of knowledge. Through hyperlinks, exhibitions in online museums intervene in social contexts anytime and anywhere, distributing the cultural knowledge postproduction of artworks. By establishing interactive connections with various contexts, online museums co‐construct knowledge and meaning. Compared with previous work, this study explores how new technological applications in online museums co‐construct knowledge and meaning through interactions with various social contexts, which will influence the future development of knowledge societies.
When the pressure drops: A case of vasoplegia during a structural heart intervention
Authors: Cox Justin , Noveras Janette , Harrell Travis , Nayak Keshav R.
Published: April 2019

A 67‐year‐old male underwent general anesthesia for left atrial appendage occlusion. During the procedure, the patient developed catecholamine refractory hypotension requiring the administration of several vasopressin boluses to maintain adequate perfusion pressure. At the conclusion of the procedure, mild venous bleeding necessitated the administration of protamine. This led to a further decrease in the patient's blood pressure. Tamponade and continued volume loss were quickly ruled out leading to a diagnosis of vasoplegia syndrome (VS). The patient was appropriately treated with a vasopressin infusion with normalization of blood pressure and no significant morbidity or adverse outcome. With the use of general anesthesia during structural heart interventions on the rapid rise, we discuss the two common causes for vasoplegia along with evidence‐based treatments and possible prevention strategies.
Associations of coronary plaque characteristics by integrated backscatter intravascular ultrasound with detectability of vessel external elastic lamina using optical frequency domain imaging in human coronary arteries: A sub‐analysis of the MISTIC‐1 trial
Authors: Ishikawa Masato , Muramatsu Takashi , Nanasato Mamoru , Nagasaka Ryo , Takatsu Hidemaro , Yoshiki Yu , Hashimoto Yosuke , Ohota Masaya , Okumura Masanori , Naruse Hiroyuki , Ishii Junichi , Ito Katsuyoshi , Takahashi Hiroshi , Kamiya Hiroki , Yoshida Yukihiko , Ozaki Yukio
Published: April 2019

Objectives

We sought to examine associations between plaque characteristics by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and detectability of external elastic lamina (EEL) by optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) in human coronary arteries.

Background

It is often challenging to detect EEL which represents vessel size by light‐based imaging modalities due to light intensity attenuation through atherosclerotic plaque.

Methods

IVUS and OFDI prior to stent implantation were sequentially investigated per protocol. We identified corresponding cross‐sections by minimum lumen area (MLA) or just distally to side branches as anatomical landmarks. Plaque characterization was determined by integrated backscatter IVUS analysis. We categorized detectable EEL arc by OFDI into four groups: 0≤ and <1 quadrant (group 1), 1≤ and <2 quadrants (group 2), 2≤ and <3 quadrants (group 3), or 3≤ and <4 quadrants (group 4).

Results

We prospectively studied 103 vessels in 93 patients with stable coronary artery disease. Corresponding 711 cross‐sections were analyzed. Cross‐sections with detectable EEL arc <2 quadrants (group 1 or 2) were observed in 86.1% of MLA sites but only in 29.3% of non‐MLA sites (p < .05). Percentage plaque area (%PA) appeared to be the strongest predictor to detect EEL arc <2 quadrants with the cut‐off of 60.3% (AUC 0.90; sensitivity 79.8%, specificity 85.5%). Lipid pool and calcification remained statistically significant in predicting detectable EEL arc <2 quadrants after adjustment with %PA.

Conclusions

Presence of large plaque burden, lipid pool, and calcification significantly predicts the detectability of EEL by OFDI assessment. Locations with detectable EEL arc <2 quadrants should thus be avoided for optimal stent landing zone.
Chronic total occlusion or non‐chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention: Do myocytes really care?
Authors: Kalyanasundaram Arun , Seth Ashok
Published: April 2019

Key Points

Chronic total occlusions subtend a more extensive perfusion defect size compared to non‐chronic total occlusion lesions.

Chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention (CTO PCI) results in significant improvement in myocardial blood flow and reduction in perfusion defect size.

Improvement in hyperemic myocardial blood Flow (MBF), coronary flow reserve (CFR) and perfusion defect size is comparable in CTO and hemodynamically significant non‐CTO PCI.
Transcatheter valves are a viable option for degenerative surgical mitral bioprostheses
Authors: Khan Asaad , Dangas George
Published: April 2019

Key Points

Repeat surgery is the ideal choice for degenerated bioprosthetic mitral valves.

Percutaneous valve‐in‐valve (ViV) replacement for the treatment of degenerated bioprostheses has emerged as an alternative to open surgery in patients who are at high risk of surgical complications.

Joseph et al have described the feasibility and long‐term outcomes of Melody ViV Implantation for bioprosthetic mitral valve dysfunction in high‐risk population.
Sensitivity estimation in circular and square loops
Authors: Giovannetti Giulio
Published: April 2019

Circular and square loops are the simplest design employed as radiofrequency coils for magnetic resonance applications. Being usually much smaller than the volume coils, these loop coils have higher signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) because they receive noises only from nearby regions. However, they have a relatively poor field homogeneity and, thus, are mainly used as receive coils. In this work, author describes a coil sensitivity estimation method based on a simulator which permits the characterization of loop coils performance, in terms of magnetic field patterns and coil losses, where this last term including conductor, sample, capacitor, radiative and soldering losses. The evaluation of coil sensitivity for circular and square loops was performed at different tuning frequencies usually used in clinical scanner (21, 64, and 128 MHz) and at different distances respect to the coil plane. Simulation data were acquired for circular loop radius between 0.5 and 4 cm and for square loop side sizes between 1 and 8 cm, with the scope of evaluating the loop sizes which maximize the sensitivity in dependence of the penetration depth in the sample region and therefore to design optimized coils for maximizing SNR in MR applications.
Diffusion measurements using the second echo
Authors: Fabich Hilary T. , Nandi Partha , Thomann Hans , Conradi Mark S.
Published: April 2019

We present a tutorial discussion of diffusion measurements by NMR, aimed around a specific problem. To measure diffusion in the presence of convective flow, one may use the second echo using the well‐known cancellation of phase effects from flow for the second echo. In testing this with a simple organic liquid and a static (dc) gradient at room temperature, where no convection can occur, we noticed the data from the second echo implied a substantiallylargerrate of diffusion than for the first echo. The error is due to the second echo being a superposition of a spin (Hahn) echo (an echo of the first echo) and a stimulated echo. We show that the stimulated echo is more attenuated by diffusion (it has a largerbvalue), explaining our result. A simple phase cycle is presented that suppresses the stimulated echo and leads to the correct diffusion value from the second echo. That is, the diffusion values taken from the first and second echoes are now identical.
Magnetic resonance data modeling: The Bayesian analysis toolbox
Authors: Quirk James D. , Bretthorst G. Larry , Garbow Joel R. , Ackerman Joseph J. H.
Published: April 2019

Bayesian probability theory provides optimal parameter estimates and robust model selection from a family of competing data models. However, widespread adoption of the Bayesian approach to the analysis of magnetic resonance and other data types has been hindered by its perceived complexity and heavy computational burden. This manuscript describes the Bayesian Analysis Toolbox, a computationally efficient, robust, and highly optimized suite of data modeling software packages based upon the precepts of Bayesian probability theory. The Toolbox is downloadable at no cost for noncommercial applications from http://bayesiananalysis.wustl.edu. The Toolbox extends Bayesian‐based data analysis to a variety of real‐world data analysis problems commonly encountered in spectroscopy and imaging, with a focus on magnetic resonance‐derived data, making the power of this approach available to the non‐expert user.
Foodomics and storage monitoring of three meat cuts by 1H NMR
Authors: Fontes José Eraldo do Nascimento , Rodriguez‐Caturla Magdevis Yanet , Sant'Ana Anderson S. , Lopes Thiago Inácio Barros , Marsaioli Anita Jocelyne
Published: April 2019

The growth of NMR foodomics is described in the context of a study of beef storage. Thirty samples of three meat cuts (chuck, sirloin, and tenderloin) were analyzed using 1H NMR spectroscopy to determine the influence of storage period and temperature. 1H showed signals belonging to metabolites namely: acetate, adenosine, adenine, ADP, alanine, betaine, creatine, creatinine, carnosine, fumarate, glycerol, glycine, glutamine, isoleucine, lactate, leucine, methionine, and valine. The score plots (PCA) separated the samples of different storage time, reflecting possible meat degradation. Samples of no storage time (time zero) were grouped in the PC1 and PC2 negatives axis. The score plots suggest that the temperature has a huge influence on the degradation extent and possible influences the growth of the microbial populations.
On‐Surface Synthesis of Iron Phthalocyanine Using Metal‐Organic Coordination Templates
Authors: Zhao Yan , Yuan Bingkai , Li Can , Zhang Pengfei , Mai Yiyong , Guan Dandan , Li Yaoyi , Zheng Hao , Liu Canhua , Wang Shiyong , Jia Jinfeng
Published: April 2019

On‐surface synthesis provides a convenient route to many kinds of conjugated molecular nanostructures, but it has remained challenging to precisely control the reaction pathway for using multicomponent precursors. Herein, we demonstrate a two‐step strategy to synthesize iron phthalocyanine (FePc) molecules using metal‐organic coordination for templating by using high‐resolution scanning tunnelling microscopy and non‐contact atomic force microscopy. In a first step, 1,2,4,5‐tetracyanobenzene (TCNB) precursors and Fe atoms self‐assembly into Fe(TCNB)4 coordination complexes on a clean Au(111) surface. The Fe(TCNB)4 complexes further undergo cyclic tetramerization upon thermal annealing, forming single FePc molecules. We expect that our demonstrated synthetic strategy may shed light on the design and synthesis of two‐dimensional extended conjugated systems.
The delivery of psychotherapy—A Delphi study on the dimensions of psychotherapy delivery and a proposal for reporting guidelines
Authors: Sündermann Oliver , See Cassandra , Veale David
Published: April 2019

Efficacy and effectiveness of psychotherapy are well studied, but we know little about optimal ways of delivering therapy. Evidence of how best to deliver psychotherapy is scarce and difficult to scope because reports of how interventions are delivered lack a common terminology. We therefore conducted a Delphi study on what dimensions of therapy delivery are important to report and examine. The study was conducted between October 2016 and July 2017. Twenty therapy experts rated and commented on various dimensions of therapy delivery (e.g., duration, spacing, or format of session). Experts were asked (a) how relevant these were for reporting of therapy studies, (b) how much they agreed with the guidelines for describing them, (c) how important these were to investigate in future studies, and (d) whether they agreed with the name of the dimension. Experts were asked to suggest other dimensions of therapy delivery they considered relevant and propose revisions of the initial guidelines. The panel agreed on names and guidelines for the description of 13 dimensions of therapy delivery. These were deemed relevant or highly relevant to report and research in future psychotherapy studies. We propose structured guidelines for reporting the delivery of psychotherapy.
Blind coding classification in the presence of interference in MIMO systems using ML algorithm
Authors: Al‐Makhlasawy Rasha M. , Hefnawy Alaa A. , Abd Elnaby Mustafa M. , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E.
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a framework for coding classification in multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems in the presence of inter‐user interference (IUI). This framework is performed at the receiver beginning with a signal separation step. The signal separation is implemented with a multi‐user kurtosis (MUK) algorithm. The classification step estimates the code parameter (CP) using the maximum‐likelihood (ML) method applied to the covariance matrix of the received signal without a priori knowledge about the transmitted signal. Experimental results show that the proposed coding classifier is easy to implement and efficient for the classification of the CP over Rayleigh fading channels in the presence of time and frequency offsets. Furthermore, the success rate of code classification is high at low signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs). The signal separation increases the probability of true classification.
Invertebrate community response to fire and rodent activity in the Mojave and Great Basin Deserts
Authors: Day Joshua D. , Birrell Jackson H. , Terry Tyson J. , Clark Amy , Allen Phil , St. Clair Samuel B.
Published: April 2019

Recent increases in the frequency and size of desert wildfires bring into question the impacts of fire on desert invertebrate communities. Furthermore, consumer communities can strongly impact invertebrates through predation and top‐down effects on plant community assembly. We experimentally applied burn and rodent exclusion treatments in a full factorial design at sites in both the Mojave and Great Basin deserts to examine the impact that fire and rodent consumers have on invertebrate communities. Pitfall traps were used to survey invertebrates from April through September 2016 to determine changes in abundance, richness, and diversity of invertebrate communities in response to fire and rodent treatments. Generally speaking, rodent exclusion had very little effect on invertebrate abundance or ant abundance, richness or diversity. The one exception was ant abundance, which was higher in rodent access plots than in rodent exclusion plots in June 2016, but only at the Great Basin site. Fire had little effect on the abundances of invertebrate groups at either desert site, with the exception of a negative effect on flying‐forager abundance at our Great Basin site. However, fire reduced ant species richness and Shannon's diversity at both desert sites. Fire did appear to indirectly affect ant community composition by altering plant community composition. Structural equation models suggest that fire increased invasive plant cover, which negatively impacted ant species richness and Shannon's diversity, a pattern that was consistent at both desert sites. These results suggest that invertebrate communities demonstrate some resilience to fire and invasions but increasing fire and spread of invasive due to invasive grass fire cycles may put increasing pressure on the stability of invertebrate communities.
Grazing intensity enhances spatial aggregation of dominant species in a desert steppe
Authors: Lv Shijie , Yan Baolong , Wang Zhongwu , Han Guodong , Kang Sarula
Published: April 2019

Understanding how grazing activity drives plant community structure or the distribution of specific species in a community remains a major challenge in community ecology. The patchiness or spatial aggregation of specific species can be quantified by analyzing their relative coordinates in the community. Using variance and geostatistical analysis methods, we examined the quantitative characteristics and spatial distribution of Stipa breviflora in a desert steppe in northern China under four different grazing intensities (no grazing, NG, light grazing, LG, moderate grazing, MG, and heavy grazing, HG) at three small spatial scales (10 × 10 cm, 20 × 20 cm, 25 × 25 cm). We found that grazing significantly increased cover, density, and proportion in standing crop of S. breviflora, but decreased height. The spatial distribution of S. breviflora was strongly dependent upon the sampling unit and grazing intensity. The patchiness of S. breviflora reduced with sampling scale, and spatial distribution of S. breviflora was mainly determined by structural factors. The intact clusters of S. breviflora were more fragmented with increasing grazing intensity and offspring clusters spread out from the center of the parent plant. These findings suggest that spatial aggregation can enhance the ability of S. breviflora to tolerate grazing and that smaller isolated clusters are beneficial to the survival of this dominant species under heavy grazing.
Implementation of Patient‐Reported Outcomes (PROMs) from specialist pain clinics in England and Wales: Experience from a nationwide study
Authors: Price Cathy M. , C. de C. Williams Amanda , Smith Blair H. , Bottle Alex
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Evaluating outcomes in routine clinical practice is a significant challenge for specialist pain clinics due to the complexity of interventions provided and the subjective nature of pain. This study reports findings from implementation of Patient Reported Outcomes (PROMs) in pain clinics in England and Wales between 2011 and 2013.

Methods

A paper‐based questionnaire was administered at a first appointment in participating centres. This assessed quality of life, experience of health care and health care usage with postal follow‐up at 6 and 12 months by the research team. Feasibility was assessed in terms of response rates, completion rates and outcomes.

Results

Ninety‐one (56%) clinics participated, entering 9,588 patients (19% of those eligible). For responders, there was a 92% item completion rate. The dropout rate was high, 46% and 19% returned questions at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Quality of life at baseline was low, with a mean EQ5D‐3L Time Trade Off value of 0.32. Amongst responders at 12 months, 92% continued to experience significant pain. For those with planned discharges 30% achieved the Minimal Important Change for quality of life. Nonetheless, 70% reported positive experiences of care.

Conclusions

Patients attending UK pain clinics report an extraordinarily poor quality of life and difficulty with understanding their condition. Problems with PROMs implementation included initial recruitment, follow‐up response rates, classification systems and benchmarking. Successful implementation should include use of electronic data capture, feedback and focus on gradual improvement. To achieve this would require extended periods of funding.

Significance

No nationwide evaluation of the effectiveness of specialist pain clinics had previously been attempted. Comparison of patient outcomes from services enables improvement. This work provides a platform to improve methods of routine PROMs capture in pain clinics, measure clinical effectiveness and identify areas for potential research.
Assessing the suitability of capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry for biomarker discovery in plasma‐based metabolomics
Authors: Zhang Wei , Segers Karen , Mangelings Debby , Van Eeckhaut Ann , Hankemeier Thomas , Vander Heyden Yvan , Ramautar Rawi
Published: April 2019

The actual utility of capillary electrophoresis‐mass spectrometry (CE‐MS) for biomarker discovery using metabolomics still needs to be assessed. Therefore, a simulated comparative metabolic profiling study for biomarker discovery by CE‐MS was performed, using pooled human plasma samples with spiked biomarkers. Two studies have been carried out in this work. Focus of study I was on comparing two sets of plasma samples, in which one set (class I) was spiked with five isotope‐labeled compounds, whereas another set (class II) was spiked with six different isotope‐labeled compounds. In study II, focus was also on comparing two sets of plasma samples, however, the isotope‐labeled compounds were spiked to both class I and class II samples but with concentrations which differ by a factor two between both classes (with one compound absent in each class). The aim was to determine whether CEMS‐based metabolomics could reveal the spiked biomarkers as the main classifiers, applying two different data analysis software tools (MetaboAnalyst and Matlab). Unsupervised analysis of the recorded metabolic profiles revealed a clear distinction between class I and class II plasma samples in both studies. This classification was mainly attributed to the spiked isotope‐labeled compounds, thereby emphasizing the utility of CE‐MS for biomarker discovery.
Recent Progress on Piezoelectric, Pyroelectric, and Magnetoelectric Polymer‐Based Energy‐Harvesting Devices
Authors: Costa Pedro , Nunes-Pereira João , Pereira Nélson , Castro Nélson , Gonçalves Sérgio , Lanceros-Mendez Senentxu
Published: April 2019

Energy harvesting from the environment based on electroactive polymers has been increasing in recent years. Ferroelectric polymers are used as mechanical‐to‐electrical energy transducers in a wide range of applications, scavenging the surrounding energy to power low‐power devices. These energy‐harvesting systems operate by taking advantage of the piezoelectric, pyroelectric, and magnetoelectric properties of the polymers, harvesting wasted environmental energy and converting it mainly into electrical energy. There have been developed different nano‐ and micro‐scale power harvesters with an increasing interest for powering mobile electronics and low‐power devices, including applications in remote access areas. Novel electronic devices are developed based on low‐power solutions, and therefore, polymer‐based materials represent a suitable solution to power these devices. Among the different polymers, the most widely used in the device application is the poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) family, due to its higher output performance.
Transoral silastic medialization for unilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Atallah Ihab , Manjunath MK , Castellanos Paul F.
Published: April 2019

Background

Medialization laryngoplasty has historically been performed through an external approach. The aim of our work is to demonstrate the feasibility of silastic vocal fold medialization transorally.

Methods

Patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis requiring medialization laryngoplasty were included in this report. Silastic medialization was done through a transoral approach. A supraglottic laryngotomy is performed followed by dissection and tunneling in the paraglottic space. Silastic implant is inserted into the tunnel to medialize the vocal fold and the ipsilateral arytenoid. The laryngotomy is tightly closed by endoscopic sutures.

Results

A consecutive series of 22 patients are reported. All patients had dysphonia with significant glottic insufficiency. After endoscopic silastic medialization, voice and swallowing were significantly improved (P < .001). No postoperative complications or implant extrusion occurred in our series.

Conclusion

Silastic vocal fold medialization can be safely and effectively performed through a transoral approach with good results on voice and swallowing.
Influence of Fat on Differential Receptor Interacting Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase 1 Activity Leading to Apoptotic Cell Death in Murine Liver Ischemia Reperfusion Injury Through Caspase 8
Authors: Kolachala Vasantha L. , Palle Sirish K. , Shen Ming , Shenoi Asha , Shayakhmetov Dmitry M. , Gupta Nitika A.
Published: April 2019

Current understanding is that receptor interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) can lead to two distinct forms of cell death: RIPK3‐mediated necroptosis or caspase 8 (Casp8)‐mediated apoptosis. Here, we report that RIPK1 signaling is indispensable for protection from hepatocellular injury in a steatotic liver undergoing ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) but not in the lean liver. In lean liver IRI, RIPK1‐mediated cell death is operational, leading to protection in RIP1 kinase‐dead knock‐in (RIPK1K45A) mice and necrostatin‐1s (Nec1s)‐treated lean wild‐type (WT) mice. However, when fed a high‐fat diet (HFD), RIPK1K45A‐treated and Nec1s‐treated WT mice undergoing IRI demonstrate exacerbated hepatocellular injury along with decreased RIPK1 ubiquitylation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that HFD‐fed RIPK3–/–/Casp8–/– mice show protection from IRI, but HFD‐fed RIPK3–/–/Casp8–/+ mice do not. We also show that blockade of RIPK1 leads to increased Casp8 activity and decreases mitochondrial viability. Conclusion: Although more studies are required, we provide important proof of concept for RIPK1 inhibition leading to distinctive outcomes in lean and steatotic liver undergoing IRI. Considering the rising incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the general population, it will be imperative to address this critical difference when treating patients with RIPK1 inhibitors. This study also presents a new target for drug therapy to prevent hepatocellular injury in NAFLD.
Circuit synthesis techniques of rational models of electromagnetic systems: A tutorial paper
Authors: Romano Daniele , Antonini Giulio , Grossner Ulrike , Kovačević‐Badstübner Ivana
Published: April 2019

This work aims to review the state of the art of the most important circuit synthesis techniques of rational approximation of electromagnetic multiport systems in order to incorporate them into a circuit simulator. In particular, equivalent circuits for the state‐space or for the pole/residue representation of impedances, admittances, and scattering parameters are reviewed in details. Furthermore, a novel contribution is given to show how it is possible to migrate from a state‐space (S,Y,Z) representation to another one by applying different matrix transformations. The resulting equivalent circuits can then be connected to linear/nonlinear devices or lumped elements in a Spice‐like framework allowing to analyze mixed electromagnetic/circuit problems. The validity of all the presented equivalent circuits and state‐space transformation is tested through two pertinent numerical examples. Pseudocodes are provided in order to make the reader able to easily implement the revised synthesis techniques.
Estimation of CYP3A4*1B single nucleotide polymorphism in patients with recurrent Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Świechowski Rafał , Jeleń Agnieszka , Mirowski Marek , Talarowska Monika , Gałecki Piotr , Pietrzak Jacek , Wodziński Damian , Balcerczak Ewa
Published: April 2019

Background

Major depression is the most common mental illness in the world. Failures in treatment may occur due to the presence of a subtype of depression called TRD (Treatment‐ Resistant Depression). CYP3A4 polymorphism (rs2740574) can increase the activity of Cytochrome P450 3A4, contributing to faster metabolism of xenobiotics and reduced response to treatment. The aim of the study was to assess the distribution of CYP3A4*1B in study and control group and to estimate the influence of particular genotypes on parameters such as: age at onset, severity of symptoms before treatment and on the effectiveness of therapy.

Methods

Total of 192 patients were enrolled in this study (102 patients suffering from recurrent Major Depression Disorder, 90 healthy blood donors). PCR Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism method with MboII enzyme was performed. The presence of CYP3A4*1B allele was evaluated on the basis of agarose gel electrophoresis.

Results

There was a tendency in frequency of genotypes distribution in the study group in comparison with the control group (p = 0.050). There were no statistically significant differences in the distribution mutant allele among these two groups, but there was a tendency for mutant allele to occur more often in the study group (p = 0.050). No significant correlations were found between the specific genotype and the studied parameters: age at onset (p = 0.232), severity of the symptoms (p = 0.946), and efficacy of treatment (p = 0.882).

Conclusion

The study suggests that CYP3A4*1B polymorphism have no influence on the predisposition to depression, the severity of depressive symptoms and the efficiency of antidepressant therapy.
Carpal tunnel syndrome in advanced age: A sonographic and electrodiagnostic study
Authors: Mulroy Eoin , Pelosi Luciana
Published: April 2019

Introduction: After noting inconsistent sonographic median nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA) enlargement at the wrist in very elderly patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), we systematically reviewed ultrasound, electrodiagnostic, and clinical data collected over a 12‐month period in patients from 2 age groups: 80–95 years and 40–65 years old. Methods: Clinical and electrodiagnostic CTS severity, sensitivity of ultrasound CSA (against both electrodiagnostic and clinical reference standards), and correlations between ultrasound CSA and clinical and electrodiagnostic severity were compared in both groups. Results: In very elderly patients, despite a higher prevalence of severe CTS, nerve ultrasound was less sensitive than in the younger group (54% vs. 87%, using clinical reference standard), and did not correlate with clinical (r = 0.28, P = 0.10) or electrodiagnostic (r = 0.09, P = 0.60) severity. Discussion: Median nerve ultrasound CSA at the wrist is not a sensitive marker of CTS in very elderly populations. In this work we detail and discuss potential pathophysiological underpinnings of this unexpected finding. Muscle Nerve, 2019
Introducing the National Early Warning Score – A qualitative study of hospital nurses’ perceptions and reactions
Authors: Jensen Jørghild Karlotte , Skår Randi , Tveit Bodil
Published: April 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore hospital nurses’ perceptions and reactions to the National Early Warning Score during an introduction programme.

Design

A qualitative case study approach with participatory observations was used for this study.

Methods

In total, nine seminars and 23 simulation sessions attended by nurses were observed. An activity theory system analysis was applied to interpret the material.

Results

The findings revealed four tensions related to the working context: (a) tension between using a standardized tool and relying on clinical judgement (the tool could be either an aid or a barrier to patient assessment); (b) tension in the community of practice (the tool could be beneficial or increase stress and anxiety); (c) tension related to rules and compliance (the tool could be perceived as optional or compulsory); and (d) tension related to the division of labour (nurses feared more work).
Antidepressant amitriptyline‐induced matrix metalloproteinase‐9 activation is mediated by Src family tyrosine kinase, which leads to glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor mRNA expression in rat astroglial cells
Authors: Abe Hiromi , Kajitani Naoto , Okada‐Tsuchioka Mami , Omori Wataru , Yatsumoto Masahide , Takebayashi Minoru
Published: April 2019

Background

Astrocytes have been implicated in the pathophysiology of mood disorders and in the mechanism of the pharmacological effects of antidepressant drugs by the production of neurotrophic/growth factors. Previous studies have identified astrocyte‐expressed Gαi/o‐coupled lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1), as being involved in antidepressant‐induced production of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) activation, an important step in the production of GNDF. However, the precise mechanism of MMP‐9 activation by antidepressants has yet to be identified, in particular the intracellular signaling pathway between LPAR1/Gαi/o and MMP‐9.

Methods and Results

Treatment of rat C6 astroglial cells (C6 cells) with amitriptyline increased Src family tyrosine kinase phosphorylation in a time and concentration‐dependent manner. Amitriptyline‐induced GDNF mRNA expression was blocked by Src family tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In addition, inhibiting Src family tyrosine kinase blocked amitriptyline‐induced zymographic MMP‐9 activation in C6 cells. The amitriptyline‐induced zymographic MMP‐9 activity was completely blocked by selective inhibition of Gαi/o protein and LPAR1. Furthermore, the amitriptyline‐induced Src family tyrosine kinase phosphorylation was blocked by LPAR1, but not MMP‐9 inhibition, indicating that Src family tyrosine kinase involvement is downstream of LPAR1.

Conclusions

The current findings suggest that the pharmacological effect of antidepressant such as amitriptyline is mediated through an intracellular signaling pathway via the LPAR1/Gαi/o/Src family tyrosine kinase, which leads to MMP‐9 activation and GDNF production.
Calcification resistance of polyisobutylene and polyisobutylene‐based materials
Authors: Kekec Nur Cicek , Akolpoglu Mukrime Birgul , Bozuyuk Ugur , Kizilel Seda , Nugay Nihan , Nugay Turgut , Kennedy Joseph P.
Published: April 2019

Calcification of implanted biomaterials is highly undesirable and limits clinical applicability. Experiments were carried out to assess the calcification resistance of polyisobutylene (PIB), PIB‐based polyurethane (PIB‐PU), PIB‐PU reinforced with (CH3)3N+CH2CH2CH2NH2 I−‐modified montmorillonite (PIB‐PU/nc), PIB‐based polyurethane urea (PIB‐PUU), PIB‐PU containing S atoms (PIBS‐PU), PIBS‐PU reinforced with (CH3)3N+CH2CH2CH2NH2 I−‐modified montmorillonite (PIBS‐PU/nc), and poly(isobutylene‐b‐styrene‐b‐isobutylene) (SIBS), relative to that of a clinically widely implanted polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)–based PU, Elast‐Eon (the “control”). Samples were incubated in simulated body fluid for 28 days at 37°C, and the extent of surface calcification was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier‐transform‐infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy. Whereas the PDMS‐based PU showed extensive calcification, PIB and PIB‐PU containing 72.5% PIB, ie, a polyurethane whose surface is covered with PIB, were free of calcification. PIBS‐PU and PIB‐PUU, ie, polyurethanes that contain S or urea groups, respectively, were slightly calcified. The amine‐modified montmorillonite‐reinforcing agent reduced the extent of calcification. SIBS was found slightly calcified. Evidently, PIB and materials fully coated with PIB are calcification resistant.
In situ latex synthesis of magnetic polymer nanocomposites for application in magnetorheological materials
Authors: Wang Yan , Ma Yibing , Sun Youyi , Guo Guizhen , Liu Yaqing
Published: April 2019

A new magnetic polymer nanocomposite based on Fe3O4 nanoparticles and nature rubber was prepared by the in situ latex method. This process was fast, versatile, reliable, safe, environmentally friendly, and inexpensive. The magnetorheological effect and mechanical properties of magnetic polymer nanocomposites were investigated in detail. The tensile strength of magnetic polymer nanocomposites without other reinforcing fillers was about 14.6 MPa. At the same time, the relative and absolute magnetorheological effect was about 365.0% and 3.64 MPa, respectively, which were almost 10 times with respect to other magnetic polymer nanocomposites based on nature rubber. Furthermore, the relationships between microstructure and mechanical behavior of magnetic polymer nanocomposites were simulated and discussed by the numerical treatment of a new theoretical model associated with finite element analysis for explaining the micro‐mechanism of magnetic polymer nanocomposites with high performance. The work did not only provide a universal route for the rational design and preparation of magnetic polymer nanocomposites with simultaneously high magnetic sensitivity and mechanical properties for various applications but also propose a new method to improve dispersion of magnetic particles in nature rubber for various applications.
Poly(p‐phenylenediamine)‐coated magnetic particles: Preparation and electrochemical properties
Authors: Tenório‐Neto Ernandes Taveira , Baraket Abdoullatif , Guilherme Marcos Rogério , Lima‐Tenório Michele Karoline , Lelong Quentin , Zine Nadia , Errachid Abdelhamid , Fessi Hatem , Elaissari Abdelhamid
Published: April 2019

Magnetic particles are of great interest in various biomedical applications, such as, sample preparation, in vitro biomedical diagnosis, and therapy. For biosensing applications, the used functional magnetic particles should answer numerous criteria such as; submicron size in order to avoid rapid sedimentation, high magnetic content for fast separations under applied magnetic field, and finally, good colloidal stability. Therefore, the aim of this work was to prepare submicron magnetic core and conducting polymer shell particles. The polymer shell was induced using p‐phenylenediamine as key monomer. The obtained core–shell particles were characterized in terms of particle size, size distribution, magnetization properties, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis, surface morphology, chemical composition, cyclic voltammetry, and impedance spectroscopy. The best experimental condition was found using 40 mg of povidone (PVP—stabilizing agent) and 0.16 mmol of p‐phenylenediamine. Using such initial composition, the core‐shell magnetic nanoparticles shown a narrowed size distribution around 290 nm and high magnetic content (above 50%). The obtained amino containing submicron highly magnetic particles were found to be a conducting material and superparamagnetic in nature. These promising conducting magnetic particles can be used for both transport and lab‐on‐a‐chip detection.
Highly exfoliated epoxy/clay nanocomposites filled with novel cationic fluorinated polyacrylate modified montmorillonite: Morphology and mechanical properties
Authors: Liu Chunhua , Liu Weiqu , He Sha , Jiang Chi , Xie Yankun , Yang Maiping , Shi Hongyi , Wang Zhengfang
Published: April 2019

In this investigation, a novel cationic fluorinated polyacrylate modified montmorillonite (CFPA‐MMT) were prepared. WAXRD results showed that the d‐spacing of CFPA‐MMTs expanded with an increase in the feeding amount of CFPA. FTIR spectra and TGA analysis were used to confirm the modification and organic content of CFPA‐MMTs. E51‐CFPA‐MMTs nanocomposites containing different amount of CFPA‐MMTs were fabricated using acetone slurry compounding method. WAXRD patterns in combination with TEM observations presented the intercalated structure of the E51‐0.5CFPA‐MMT‐3 nanocomposite and the intercalated/exfoliated morphologies of E51‐1CFPA‐MMT‐3 and E51‐2CFPA‐MMT‐3 nanocomposites, which revealed that an increase in the CFPA content of CFPA‐MMTs is conducive to form the exfoliated morphology. The SEM images showed that the dispersion zones of MMT platelets separately dispersed in the epoxy matrix at lower filler content (≤1 wt%) whereas connected with each other at higher filler content (≥3 wt%). The separate dispersion zones induced superior improvement in the tensile strength, especially with higher CFPA content. The E51‐2CFPA‐MMT‐1 nanocomposites obtained the largest tensile strength at 69.2 MPa which is an increase of 14.4% compared to that of the neat cured E51. The intercalated and exfoliated MMT platelets increased the storage modulus both in the glassy region and in the rubbery region while decreased theTg of epoxy/clay nanocomposites compared to the neat cured epoxy.
Preparation of a highly specific single chain variable fragment antibody targeting miroestrol and its application in quality control of Pueraria candollei by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay
Authors: Pongkitwitoon Benyakan , Boonsnongcheep Panitch , Kitisripanya Tharita , Yusakul Gorawit , Sakamoto Seiichi , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Morimoto Satoshi , Putalun Waraporn
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Miroestrol is the potent phytoestrogen isolated from White Kwao Krua (Pueraria candollei var. mirifica (Airy Shaw & Suvat.) Niyomdham, a Thai traditional medicinal plant. Nowadays, various health supplementary products featuring White Kwao Krua are available worldwide. A sensitive and rapid analytical method for quantification of miroestrol is necessary for quality control of these products.

Objectives

To prepare a single‐chain variable fragment (scFv) antibody specific to miroestrol and develop a scFv‐based enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for quantitative analysis of miroestrol in plant materials and health supplementary products.

Methods

A gene encoding anti‐miroestrol scFv antibody was constructed and expressed in Escherichia coli SHuffle T7 strain. Anti‐miroestrol scFv antibody was characterised and applied to ELISA. The developed scFv‐based ELISA method was validated for its sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and precision.

Results

Anti‐miroestrol scFv antibody was highly specific to miroestrol. The scFv‐based ELISA was applied to determine miroestrol in the range 0.06–7.81 μg/mL, with the limit of quantification of 0.06 μg/mL miroestrol. The accuracy of the assay was validated by its 95.08–103.99% recovery from the spiked miroestrol recovery experiment and in good correlation with the results from the monoclonal antibody‐based ELISA. The relative standard deviation of the intra‐ and inter‐assay were less than 6.0%.

Conclusion

The developed scFv‐based ELISA was sensitive, specific, accurate, and precise for determination of miroestrol and useful for quality control of P. candollei plant raw materials and supplementary products.
Quantitative spectrochemical analysis of solution plasma in aromatic molecules
Authors: Bratescu Maria Antoaneta , Kim Kyusung , Saito Nagahiro
Published: April 2019

A nonthermal plasma produced at atmospheric pressure in the gas resulted from the surrounding liquid is named solution plasma (SP). A quantitative and comparative spectrochemical analysis of the plasma gas and solution in benzene, pyridine, and aniline is performed. The number densities of dicarbon and cyano radicals and hydrogen molecule from the plasma gas are measured using a cheap, straightforward, and home‐made optical set‐up. By simply modifying the optical set‐up, the molar concentration of newly formed chemical compounds is in situ obtained in the solution. The thermodynamic properties of aromatic molecules determine the electrical breakdown and the species number densities in the plasma gas. The production rate and atomic composition of carbon material are correlated with the radicals from plasma gas.
Amplified Photoacoustic Imaging of Tumor through In Situ Cycloaddition
Authors: Deng Guang , Zhou Ping , Zhou Zhiguo , Wang Xiyou , Yang Hong , Yang Shiping
Published: April 2019

Photoacoustic (PA) imaging has received great attention in the field of biomedical applications due to the combination advantages of the high contrast of optical imaging and the high spatial resolution of ultrasound. The limited targeting property of PA contrast agents is restricted to elaborate its advantage. To overcome this point, a pretargeting strategy is developed to amplify the targeting property and PA imaging of a model dye in vivo. As a proof of concept, the dibenzyl cyclootyne (DBCO)‐modified Fe@Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) (Fe@Fe3O4/DBCO) and azide‐modified Cy7.5 (Cy7.5‐N3) are adopted as the pretargeting and PA contrast agents, respectively. Fe@Fe3O4/DBCO NPs are first targeted into tumors by the enhanced permeability and retention effect, and then Cy7.5‐N3 is conjugated to the pretargeted Fe@Fe3O4/DBCO labeled tumor cells via strain‐promoted alkyne azide cycloaddition reaction after intravenous injection, which results in an obvious increase of the accumulated dose and PA signal of Cy7.5 in tumor, and simultaneously extends its residence time. This signal amplification strategy should have an important guiding significance for the clinical application in cancer theranostics.
The effect of chronic kidney disease on CYP2B expression and activity in male Wistar rats
Authors: Kucey Andrew S. , Velenosi Thomas J. , Tonial Nicholas C. , Tieu Alvin , RaoPeters Adrien A. E. , Urquhart Brad L.
Published: April 2019

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by progressive reduction in kidney function over time. CKD affects greater than 10% of the population and its incidence is on the rise due to the growing prevalence of its risk factors. Previous studies demonstrated CKD alters nonrenal clearance of drugs in addition to reducing renal clearance. We assessed the function and expression of hepatic CYP2B enzymes using a rat model of CKD. CKD was induced in Wistar rats by supplementing their chow with adenine and confirmed through the detection of elevated uremic toxins in plasma. Liver enzymes AST and ALT were unchanged by the adenine diet. Bupropion was used as a probe substrate for hepatic CYP2B function using rat liver microsomes. The resulting metabolite, hydroxy‐bupropion, and bupropion were quantified by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Level of mRNA and protein were determined by RT‐PCR and Western blot, respectively. The results of our study demonstrate that CYP2B1 is downregulated in a rat model of CKD. CYP2B1 mRNA level was significantly decreased (88%, P < 0.001) in CKD relative to control. Similarly, maximal enzymatic velocity (Vmax) for CYP2B was decreased by 46% in CKD relative to control (P < 0.0001). Previous studies involving patients with CKD demonstrated altered bupropion pharmacokinetics compared to control. Hence, our results suggest that these alterations may be mediated by attenuated CYP2B hepatic metabolism. This finding may partially explain the alterations in pharmacokinetics and nonrenal drug clearance frequently observed in patients with CKD.