bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the association between exposure to mass media and health insurance enrolment in Ghana
Authors: Kansanga Moses Mosonsieyiri , Asumah Braimah Joseph , Antabe Roger , Sano Yuji , Kyeremeh Emmanuel , Luginaah Isaac
Published: February 2018

Although previous studies have explored the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) in Ghana, very little attention is paid to the influence of mass media exposure on NHIS enrolment. Yet, understanding this linkage is important, particularly due to the critical role of mass media in disseminating health information and shaping people's health perceptions and choices. Using data from the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey, we employed logistic regression analysis to understand the relationship between NHIS enrolment and exposure to print media, radio, and television. Our findings indicate that women with more exposure to radio (OR = 1.23, P < 0.01) and television (OR = 1.24, P < 0.01) were more likely to enroll in the NHIS than those with no exposure. For men, more exposure to print media was associated with higher odds of enrolling in the NHIS (OR = 1.41, P < 0.01). In conclusion, all 3 types of media may be helpful in promoting NHIS enrolment in Ghana. However, given that the relationship between media exposure and enrolment in the NHIS was gendered, we recommend that policymakers should pay attention to these dynamics to ensure effective targeting in NHIS media campaigns for increased enrolment into the scheme.
Enhanced efficacy of AZD3759 and radiation on brain metastasis from EGFR mutant non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Li Xue , Wang Yingchun , Wang Jia , Zhang Tianwei , Zheng Li , Yang Zhenfan , Xing Ligang , Yu Jinming
Published: February 2018

The prognosis of patients with brain metastasis (BM) is poor. In our study, we demonstrated that AZD3759, an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) with excellent blood–brain barrier (BBB) penetration, combined with radiation enhanced the antitumor efficacy in BM model from EGFR mutant (EGFRm) NSCLC. Besides, the antitumor activity displayed no difference between radiation concurrently with AZD3759 and radiation sequentially with AZD3759. Mechanistically, we found that two factors determined the enhanced efficacy: cells with EGFRm which were sensitive to AZD3759, and a relative high concentration of AZD3759. We have validated mechanisms underlying the radiosensitizing effect of AZD3759, which were involved in decreased cell proliferation and survival, and suppressed repair of DNA damage. Moreover, our study found that AZD3759 inhibited both the non‐homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homologous recombination (HR) DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs) repair pathway, and abrogated the G2/M checkpoint to suppress DNA damage repair. We also detected the BBB penetration of AZD3759 when combined with cranial radiation. The results showed the BBB penetration of AZD3759 was decreased within 24 hr after radiation, however, the free concentration of AZD3759 in brain kept at a high level in the context of radiation. In conclusion, our findings suggest that AZD3759 combined with radiation enhances the antitumor activity in BM from EGFRm NSCLC, this combination therapy may be an effective treatment option for BM from EGFRm NSCLC.
Rapid reduction of extremely high kappa free light chains in a patient with myeloma cast nephropathy
Authors: Snozek Christine L. H. , Kinard Theresa N. , Adamski Jill
Published: February 2018

This report describes a patient with light chain myeloma and acute renal injury. Serum kappa free light chain (FLC) was extremely elevated, >33,000 mg/dL. Treatment with therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) started day 2 for biopsy‐confirmed cast nephropathy. Bortezomib‐containing chemotherapy was initiated on day 5, and hemodialysis for tumor lysis syndrome on day 7. TPE alone decreased kappa FLC >70% by day 5, indicating direct FLC removal was successful in this patient. A total of 25 TPE procedures were performed in a 31‐day hospitalization. Hemodialysis was discontinued after 3 months, and the patient's renal function and kappa FLC remain stable. Although the use of TPE for FLC removal is controversial, recent evidence supports its use as adjuvant therapy for acute renal injury secondary to myeloma cast nephropathy. TPE can be effective for rapidly reducing FLC; however, several TPE procedures might be required to reduce the risk of hemodialysis dependency.
Comparison of L‐selectin blood level and gene polymorphism in tuberculosis patients with healthy individuals
Authors: Eini Peyman , Shirvani Maria , Hajilooi Mehrdad , Esna‐Ashari Farzaneh
Published: February 2018

Background

The inflammatory response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli influences tuberculosis (TB) progression. In this study, we aimed to identify the Phe206Leu polymorphism and serum L‐selectin level in TB patients, compared to healthy individuals.

Methods

Ninety patients with a diagnosis of TB and 90 healthy controls were selected in this study. The serum L‐selectin level was determined, using ELISA. L‐selectin polymorphism was also evaluated using PCR. For data analysis, SPSS was used at a significance level of 0.05.

Results

According to the findings, the mean±SD age of the participants was 57.5 ± 18.4 and 56.5 ± 17.5 years in the TB and healthy groups, respectively. The TB group showed a significantly higher serum L‐selectin level (1721.1 ± 330.9) versus the healthy controls (1624 ± 279). The L‐selectin Phe allele frequencies were higher than the Leu allele frequencies in the main population, whereas the patients and controls were not significantly different. Eight (0.04%) subjects had Leu/Leu genotypes, 84 (46.6%) carried Phe/Leu genotypes, and 88 (48.8%) had Phe/Phe genotypes. Our results showed that the groups were not significantly different regarding L‐selectin genotypes.

Conclusion

TB patients had a significantly higher serum L‐selectin level, compared to the controls. Based on the findings, the incidence of TB and L‐selectin polymorphism in the Phe206Leu gene had no significant association.
How Counterfeits Infect Genuine Products: The Role of Moral Disgust
Authors: Amar Moty , Ariely Dan , Carmon Ziv , Yang Haiyang
Published: February 2018

We argue that moral disgust toward counterfeiting can degrade both the efficacy of products perceived to be counterfeits and that of genuine products resembling them. Five studies support our propositions and highlight the infectious nature of counterfeiting: Perceiving a product as a counterfeit made disgust more mentally accessible, and led participants to disinfect the item more and reduce how long they remained in physical contact with it (Study 1). Participants who perceived a mouse as a counterfeit, performed less well in a computer game using the mouse and expressed greater moral disgust, which mediated lowered performance (Study 2). Exposure to a supposedly counterfeit fountain pen in an unrelated prior task infected participants’ performance using a genuine ballpoint pen resembling the “counterfeit;” individual differences in moral attitudes moderated the effect (Study 3). Exposure to a supposedly counterfeit mouse infected performance with a genuine mouse of the same brand; moral disgust mediated this effect (Study 4). Finally, moral disgust mediated lowered efficacy of a supposed counterfeit and that of a genuine item resembling the “counterfeit” (Study 5).
FT‐Raman spectroscopy, µ‐EDXRF spectrometry, and microhardness analysis of the dentin of primary and permanent teeth
Authors: Torres Carolina Paes , Miranda Gomes‐Silva Jaciara , Menezes‐Oliveira Maria Angélica Hueb , Silva Soares Luís Eduardo , Palma‐Dibb Regina Guenka , Borsatto Maria Cristina
Published: February 2018

The chemical compositions (organic and inorganic contents) and mechanical behaviors of the dentin of permanent and deciduous teeth were analyzed and compared using X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (µ‐EDXRF) Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT‐Raman) and a microhardness test (HD). Healthy fresh human primary and permanent molars (n = 10) were selected, The buccal surfaces facing upwards were stabilized in an acrylic plate, flattened, polished, and submitted to the µ‐EDXRF, FT‐Raman, and HD analysis. The results of the analysis were subjected to ANOVAs and Mann‐WhitneyU/Student'stmultiple comparisons tests. The data showed similar values for the dentin of the primary and permanent teeth in P content, organic content (amide I peak), inorganic content (– 430 and 590), and microhardness, Nevertheless, Ca content and Ca/P weight ratio were higher, and thepeak was lower in the dentin of the permanent teeth compared to primary teeth. It be concluded that despite permanent teeth showed more Ca element, both substrates showed similar behavior of chemical and physical properties.
Clinical course of type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis patients without steroid treatment: a Japanese multicenter study of 97 patients
Authors: Kubota Kensuke , Kamisawa Terumi , Hirano Kenji , Hirooka Yoshiki , Uchida Kazushige , Ikeura Tsukasa , Shiomi Hideyuki , Ohara Hirotaka , Shimizu Kyoko , Arakura Norikazu , Kanno Atsushi , Sakagami Junichi , Itoi Takao , Ito Tetsuhide , Ueki Toshiharu , Nishino Takayoshi , Inui Kazuo , Mizuno Nobumasa , Yoshida Hitoshi , Sugiyama Masanori , Iwasaki Eisuke , Irisawa Atsushi , Okazaki Kazuichi , Kawa Shigeyuki , Shimosegawa Toru , Takeyama Yoshifumi , Chiba Tsutomu
Published: February 2018

Background

Sporadic autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) cases showing remission without steroid treatment have been reported, however, the clinical course of these patients has not been clarified. This study sought to clarify the clinical course in AIP patients with hesitation for steroid treatment.

Methods

We collected clinical data for AIP patients from high‐volume centers in Japan. Data for AIP patients with and those without steroid treatment (steroid treatment vs. wait and see policy or W&S) were then compared. The primary point was the relapse‐free survival rate (RFS) in patients with and those without steroid treatment, as determined using Kaplan–Meier curve. The secondary point was the identification of predictors of remission and risks of relapse in AIP patients without steroid treatment.

Results

There were 510 AIP patients in the steroid treatment group and 97 patients in the W&S group. Overall, 55.7% (54/97) of type 1 AIP patients in the W&S group experienced transient remission without steroid treatment. The W&S group had a significantly higher patient age and significantly lower incidences of jaundice, diffuse pancreas swelling, proximal‐type sclerosing cholangitis, and stent placement and a lower remission rate than the steroid treatment group (each P < 0.05). The RFS reached a plateau at 10 years in both the W&S group (50%) and steroid treatment group (52.9%). As for the RFS (W&S vs. group with steroid), 89.4% vs. 74.4% within 3 years, 81.8% vs. 65.3% within 5 years, and 50% vs. 52.9% within 10 years (log‐rank, P = 0.064). Female gender (OR 0.340, P = 0.027) and stent placement for jaundice (OR 4.552, P = 0.008) were identified as predictors of transient remission in the W&S group. New‐onset diabetes mellitus (OR 8.333, P = 0.012) and the presence of extensive multi‐organ involvement (OR 35, P = 0.006) were identified as risks of relapse in the W&S group.

Conclusion

Some type 1 AIP patients without steroid treatment experience transient remission. These cases tend to have lower disease activities than AIP patients receiving steroids. Female gender and stent placement for jaundice may be predictors of transient remission among patients not receiving steroid treatment, however, relapses can occur in these patients with new‐onset diabetes mellitus and the presence of extensive multi‐organ involvement. Therefore, steroid treatment is still imperative for these patients.
Peer counselling versus standard‐of‐care on reducing high‐risk behaviours among newly diagnosed HIV‐positive men who have sex with men in Beijing, China: a randomized intervention study
Authors: Liu Yu , Vermund Sten H , Ruan Yuhua , Liu Hongjie , Rivet Amico K , Simoni Jane M , Shepherd Bryan E , Shao Yiming , Qian Han‐Zhu
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Reducing high‐risk behaviours (i.e. multiple partnership, condomless anal/vaginal sex, alcohol use before sex, illicit drug use) after HIV diagnosis is critical for curtailing HIV transmission. We designed an intervention to explore peer‐ counselling in reducing high‐risk behaviours among newly diagnosed HIV‐positive Chinese men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods

We randomized 367 newly diagnosed HIV‐positive men to either standard‐of‐care (SOC; n = 183) or peer‐counselling intervention (n = 184), and followed them for 12 months (visit at 0‐, 3‐, 6‐, 9‐ and 12‐month). SOC participants received counselling on high‐risk behaviour reduction by clinic staff. Intervention participants received both SOC and peer counselling. A generalized estimating equation was used to compare pre‐post diagnosis high‐risk behaviour change; logistic regression was used to assess the likelihood of practicing high‐risk behaviours between intervention and SOC participants. Both intent‐to‐treat and per‐protocol (full‐dosage) approaches were used for the analyses.

Results

For pre‐ and post‐diagnosis comparisons, multiple partnership fell from 50% to 16% (p < 0.001), alcohol use before sex from 23% to 9% (p = 0.001), illicit drug use from 33% to 6% (p < 0.001), condomless anal sex from 47% to 4% (insertive from 23% to 2%; receptive from 36% to 3%; p < 0.001). In the intent‐to‐treat analysis accounting for repeated measures, peer counselling was more likely to reduce insertive anal sex (AOR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.45 to 0.94), condomless anal sex (AOR = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.64) and illicit drug use (AOR = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.16 to 0.64). In the per‐protocol analysis, peer counselling was associated with a lower likelihood of using illicit drug (OR = 0.23; 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.81) and having condomless vaginal sex with women (OR = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.98).

Conclusions

We observed a 14 to 43% decrease in the prevalence of selected high‐risk behaviours after HIV diagnosis. Peer counselling had a greater impact in reducing condomless anal sex with men, illicit drug use and condomless vaginal sex with women over time. Future studies with exclusive peer‐counselling arm are necessary to test its efficacy and effectiveness among Chinese MSM.

Clinical Trial Number: NCT01904877
Antibody response to hepatitis B vaccine in HIV‐exposed infants in Malawi and correlation with HBV infection acquisition
Authors: Mancinelli Sandro , Pirillo Maria F. , Liotta Giuseppe , Andreotti Mauro , Mphwere Robert , Amici Roberta , Marazzi Maria C. , Vella Stefano , Palombi Leonardo , Giuliano Marina
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the immune response to HBV vaccine in HIV‐exposed infants and to correlate it to HBV infection acquisition. Protective anti‐HBs levels (>10 mIU/mL) were found in 54/58 (93.2%) infants at 6 months, 126/144 (87.5%) at 12 months and 141/176 (80.1%) children at 24 months. HBV infection (seven children were HBsAg + at Month 24) occurred also in the presence of levels above 10 mIU/mL. Our findings indicate limited impact of HIV exposure on anti‐HBV immune response, but suggest that levels >10 mIU/mL may be required to confer protection in this context.
Occupational future time perspective: A meta‐analysis of antecedents and outcomes
Authors: Rudolph Cort W. , Kooij Dorien T. A. M. , Rauvola Rachel S. , Zacher Hannes
Published: February 2018

Occupational future time perspective (OFTP) refers to employees' perceptions of their future in the employment context. Based on lifespan and organizational psychology theories, we review research on OFTP and offer a meta‐analysis of antecedents and outcomes of OFTP (K = 40 independent samples, N = 19,112 workers). Results show that OFTP is associated with individual characteristics and personal resources, including age (ρ = −0.55), job tenure (ρ = −0.23), organizational tenure (ρ = −0.25), educational level (ρ = 0.16), and self‐rated physical health (ρ = 0.16), as well as job characteristics, such as job autonomy (ρ = 0.22). Moreover, OFTP is related to important work outcomes, including job satisfaction (ρ = 0.28), organizational commitment (ρ = 0.41), work engagement (ρ = 0.22), retirement intentions (ρ = −0.37), and work continuance intentions (ρ = 0.16). OFTP is also related to task (ρ = 0.11) and contextual performance (ρ = 0.20). Additional analyses show that OFTP predicts job attitudes and work performance above and beyond the effects of another developmental regulation construct, selection, optimization, and compensation strategies. Overall, the findings of our meta‐analysis suggest that OFTP is an important construct in the context of an aging workforce.
Body fat rather than body mass index is associated with gingivitis – A southern Brazilian cross‐sectional study
Authors: Muniz Francisco Wilker Mustafa Gomes , Costa Ricardo dos Santos Araújo , Cavagni Juliano , Milanesi Fernanda Carpes , Hilgert Juliana Balbinot , Gomes Sabrina Carvalho , Oppermann Rui Vicente , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker
Published: February 2018

Background: This cross‐sectional study aimed to evaluate the association between body mass index (BMI) and body fat with gingivitis in 613 adults of Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Methods: Individuals with at least four teeth were included in this study. They were identified through a multi‐stage probability sampling, considering the city distribution of sex and age. Structured interviews were conducted by trained researchers in order to collect sociodemographic characteristics, behavioral habits, and systemic impaired conditions. Visible plaque and modified gingival index were assessed by a trained and calibrated examiner. Additionally, weight, height, and body fat percentage were measured. Body fat percentage was determined by bioelectrical‐impedance analysis using a portable electrical micro‐current monitor. The median sites with marginal bleeding was 20%, and used as a cutoff point for gingivitis. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratio by mean Poisson regression with robust variance were calculated. Two multivariable models were performed in order to associate both independent and dependent variables.

Results: In the multivariable analysis that included BMI, no significant association with gingivitis was detected. On the other hand, the multivariable model that included body fat showed that very high body fat category (PR 1.22; 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.49) was significantly associated with higher marginal gingival bleeding.

Conclusion: Very high body fat category rather than BMI was significantly associated with higher positive marginal gingival bleeding in adults.
Human beta defensin 3 alters matrix metalloproteinase production in human dendritic cells exposed to Porphyromonas gingivalis hemagglutinin B
Authors: Raina Monica , Bates Amber M. , Fischer Carol L. , Progulske‐Fox Ann , Abbasi Taher , Vali Shireen , Brogden Kim A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc‐ or calcium‐dependent proteinases involved in normal maintenance of extracellular matrix. When elevated, they contribute to the tissue destruction seen in periodontal disease. Recently, we found that human beta defensin 3 (HBD3), a cationic antimicrobial peptide, alters chemokine and proinflammatory cytokine responses in human myeloid dendritic cells exposed to Porphyromonas gingivalis hemagglutinin B (HagB). In this study, the hypotheses that HagB induces MMP production in dendritic cells and that HBD3 mixed with HagB prior to treatment alters HagB‐induced MMP profiles were tested.

Methods

Dendritic cells were exposed to 0.2 μM HagB alone and HagB + HBD3 (0.2 or 2.0 μM) mixtures. After 16 hours, concentrations of MMPs in cell culture media were determined with commercial multiplex fluorescent bead‐based immunoassays. An integrated cell network was used to identify potential HagB‐induced signaling pathways in dendritic cells leading to the production of MMPs.

Results

0.2 μM HagB induced MMP1, ‐2, ‐7, ‐9, and ‐12 responses in dendritic cells. 0.2 μM HBD3 enhanced the HagB‐induced MMP7 response (P < 0.05) and 2.0 μM HBD3 attenuated HagB‐induced MMP1, ‐7, and ‐9 responses (P < 0.05). The MMP12 response was not affected. In the predicted network, MMPs are produced via activation of multiple pathways. Signals converge to activate numerous transcription factors, which transcribe different MMPs.

Conclusion

HagB was an MMP stimulus and HBD3 was found to decrease HagB‐induced MMP1, ‐7, and ‐9 responses in dendritic cells at 16 hours, an observation that suggests HBD3 can alter microbial antigen‐induced production of MMPs.
Exposure to occupational noise and periodontitis in Korean workers
Authors: Shim Su‐Hyun , Han Dong‐Hun
Published: February 2018

Background

Chronic exposure to occupational noise is reported to cause a wide range of health problems. But, there are no reports on studies investigating the association between noise exposure and periodontitis. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between occupational noise exposure and periodontitis in a nationally representative sample of Korean workers.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from the 4th Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The study sample included 8,927 workers aged 19 to 54 years. Noise exposure assessment was performed by using self‐report questionnaires. The dependent variable was periodontitis. Age, sex, perceived stress level, place of residence, income, education, health behaviors (frequency of daily toothbrushing, binge drinking, smoking status, regular dental checkup), diabetes, obesity, and white blood cell count were included as covariates. Logistic regression analyses estimated the association between noise exposure and periodontitis after sequential adjustment.

Results

Compared with never‐exposed individuals, participants exposed to occupational noise had an increased prevalence of periodontitis. The association remained significant after full adjustment of covariates (odds ratio [OR] 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06 to 1.70). Association of noise exposure with periodontitis was particularly strong for individuals aged < 45 years (OR 1.65; 95% CI 1.22 to 2.23).

Conclusions

Our study shows that there is an association between occupational noise exposure and periodontitis in a representative sample of Korean workers. Policy efforts to improve workplace noise environments might have an effect on improving periodontal health status among Korean workers.
Disintegration of the agricultural by‐product wheat bran under subcritical conditions
Authors: Reisinger Michael , Tirpanalan Özge , Pruksasri Suwattana , Kneifel Wolfgang , Novalin Senad
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

The disintegration of destarched wheat bran in water and sulfuric acid (pH 3) under subcritical conditions (275–300 °C) and at short reaction times (1–4 min) was investigated. A cascade process comprising a stepwise separation of the liquid was applied to reduce the formation of undesired degradation products.

RESULTS

The highest degree of biomass disintegration (67% dry mass solubilization) was achieved by application of a cascade process at 275 °C (pH 3). Regarding the dissolution of carbohydrates (monomeric and oligomeric form), the total glucose yields remained below 60%, while the total xylose and arabinose yields were about 76% and 67%. Approximately 74% of the protein and 95% of the mineral fraction could be extracted. The application of the cascade process enabled a substantially reduced formation of degradation products.

CONCLUSION

When operating hydrothermally and subcritically in order to avoid some problematic aspects of a biorefinery, an extensive disintegration and monomerization of wheat bran and its constituents remains difficult even under the tested conditions (300 °C, pH 3). However, the applied cascade process proved to be useful to increase the yields and to substantially reduce the formation of undesired degradation products. Despite this fact, increased water consumption has to be conceded. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
β‐Cyclodextrin‐modified three‐dimensional graphene oxide‐wrapped melamine foam for the solid‐phase extraction of flavonoids
Authors: Hou Xiudan , Lu Xiaofeng , Niu Panhong , Tang Sheng , Wang Licheng , Guo Yong
Published: February 2018

A new three‐dimensional graphene oxide‐wrapped melamine foam was prepared and used as a solid‐phase extraction substrate. β‐Cyclodextrin was fabricated onto the surface of three‐dimensional graphene oxide‐wrapped melamine foam by a chemical covalent interaction. In view of a specific surface area and a large delocalized π electron system of graphene oxide, in combination with a hydrophobic interior cavity and a hydrophilic peripheral face of β‐cyclodextrin, the prepared extraction material was proposed for the determination of flavonoids. In order to demonstrate the extraction properties of the as‐prepared material, the adsorption energies were theoretically calculated based on periodic density functional theory. Static‐state and dynamic‐state binding experiments were also investigated, which revealed the monolayer coverage of flavonoids onto the β‐cyclodextrin/graphene oxide‐wrapped melamine foams through the chemical adsorption. 1H NMR spectroscopy indicated the formation of flavonoids–β‐cyclodextrin inclusion complexes. Under the optimum conditions, the proposed method exhibited acceptable linear ranges (2–200 μg/L for rutin and quercetin‐3‐O‐rhamnoside; 5–200 μg/L for quercetin) with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.9979 to 0.9994. The batch‐to‐batch reproducibility (n = 5) was 3.5–6.8%. Finally, the as‐established method was satisfactorily applied for the determination of flavonoids in Lycium barbarum (Goji) samples with relative recoveries in the range of 77.9–102.6%.
Keeping it authentic: Reconciling ORCID iDs gathered at submission with the author manuscript
Authors: Dunford Robin , Rosenblum Bruce
Published: February 2018

Key points

Increasing pressure from funders to enable tracking of research outputs that result from their funding is driving the adoption of the ORCID iD.

Developers of submission and peer‐review systems have built tools to gather and authenticate ORCID iDs from authors during manuscript submission.

Crossref Auto‐update of author ORCID records requires authenticated iDs, but many publishers generate Crossref metadata XML from the author manuscript.

eXtyles ORCID Integration Suite allows automated reconciliation and synchronization between the submission system's transmittal file and the author manuscript.
Pseudo anti‐commuting Ricci tensor and Ricci soliton real hypersurfaces in complex hyperbolic two‐plane Grassmannians
Authors: Suh Young Jin , Kim Gyu Jong , Woo Changhwa
Published: February 2018

In this paper, first we introduce a new notion of pseudo anti commuting Ricci tensor for real hypersurfaces in complex hyperbolic two‐plane Grassmannians and prove a complete classification theorem that such a hypersurface must be a tube over a totally real totally geodesic , , a horosphere whose center at the infinity is singular or an exceptional case.
Nose resurfacing with free fasciocutaneous flaps in burns patients
Authors: Yen Cheng‐I , Yang Jui‐Yung , Chang Chun‐Shin , Huang Jung‐Ju , Wu Chih‐Wei , Chen Hung‐Chang , Yang Shih‐Yi , Chang Shu‐Yin , Chuang Shiow‐Shuh , Hsiao Yen‐Chang
Published: February 2018

Background

Nasal reconstruction after burn injury can be challenging due to limited availability of local flaps. We present our experience of free flap reconstruction for full‐thickness nasal defect after severe facial burn injury.

Methods

Between August 1998 and September 2015, six patients underwent nasal reconstruction with seven free flaps after burn injury. Among them, flame burn occurred in two patients, chemical burn in two, explosive burn in one, and contact thermal burn in one patient. The percentage of total body surface area ranged from 4% to 48%, and the face and forehead were involved in all patients. Their clinical and photographic records were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate the aesthetic results.

Results

Four ulnar forearm flaps, one radial forearm flap, one anterolateral thigh flap, and one medial sural artery perforator flap were used for nasal reconstruction. The nasal framework was constructed simultaneously using costal cartilage or conchal cartilage. The facial artery and vein were typically used as recipient vessels. One case each of partial necrosis and infection were noted during the average follow‐up of 59 months (range, 16–126 months). Patients had satisfactory aesthetic and functional outcomes after 4.5 times (range, 2–7 times) refinement operation.

Conclusions

Free flap is an applicable alternative to restore nasal skin envelope, with rebuilding the nasal framework performed in the same stage after severe facial burn injury. Through thoughtful planning and sufficient refinement, satisfactory aesthetic, and functional results are achievable.
On unicity of meromorphic solutions to difference Painlevé equation
Authors: Lü Feng , Wang Yanfeng , Lü Weiran
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we consider the uniqueness problems of finite‐order meromorphic solutions to Painlevé equation. Our result says that such solutions w are uniquely determined by their poles and the zeros of w−ej (counting multiplicities) for 2 finite complex numbers e1≠e2. As applications, we derive 2 uniqueness theorems about the Weierstrass ℘ function and Jacobi elliptic function sn, respectively.
In vivo self‐gated 23Na MRI at 7 T using an oval‐shaped body resonator
Authors: Platt Tanja , Umathum Reiner , Fiedler Thomas M. , Nagel Armin M. , Bitz Andreas K. , Maier Florian , Bachert Peter , Ladd Mark E. , Wielpütz Mark O. , Kauczor Hans‐Ulrich , Behl Nicolas G.R.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This work faces three challenges of sodium (23Na) torso MRI on the way to quantitative 23Na MRI: Development of a 23Na radiofrequency transmit and receive coil covering a large part of the human body in width and length for 23Na MRI at 7 T; reduction of blurring due to respiration in free‐breathing 23Na MRI using a self‐gating approach; and reduction of image noise using a compressed‐sensing reconstruction.

Methods

An oval‐shaped birdcage resonator with a large field of view of (400 mm)3 and a homogeneous transmit and receive field distribution was designed, simulated, and implemented on a 7T MR system. In free‐breathing 3‐dimensional radial 23Na MRI (acquisition time ≈ 30 minutes), retrospective respiratory self‐gating was applied, which sorts the acquired projections into two respiratory states based on the intrinsic respiration‐dependent signal changes. Furthermore, a 3‐dimensional dictionary‐learning compressed‐sensing reconstruction was applied.

Results

The developed body coil provided homogeneous radiofrequency excitation (flip angle error of 4.9% in central region of interest of 23 × 13 × 10 cm3) and homogeneous signal reception. The self‐gating approach allowed for separation of the full data set into two subsets associated with different respiratory states (inhaled and exhaled), and thereby reduced blurring due to respiration in the separated images. Image noise was markedly reduced by the compressed‐sensing algorithm.

Conclusion

The presented body coil enables full body width 23Na MRI with long z‐axis coverage at 7 T for the first time. Additionally, the retrospective respiratory self‐gating performance is demonstrated for free‐breathing lung and abdominal 23Na MRI in 3 subjects.
Controlling T2 blurring in 3D RARE arterial spin labeling acquisition through optimal combination of variable flip angles and k‐space filtering
Authors: Zhao Li , Chang Ching‐Di , Alsop David C.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To improve the SNR efficiency and reduce the T2 blurring of 3D rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement stack‐of‐spiral arterial spin labeling imaging by using variable refocusing flip angles and k‐space filtering.

Methods

An algorithm for determining the optimal combination of variable flip angles and filtering correction is proposed. The flip angles are designed using extended phase graph physical simulations in an analytical and global optimization framework, with an optional constraint on deposited power. Optimal designs for correcting to Hann and Fermi window functions were compared with conventional constant amplitude or variable flip angle only designs on 6 volunteers.

Results

With the Fermi window correction, the proposed optimal designs provided 39.8 and 27.3% higher SNR (P < .05) than conventional constant amplitude and variable flip angle designs. Even when power deposition was limited to 50% of the constant amplitude design, the proposed method outperformed the SNR (P < .05) of these 2 conventional approaches by 32.5 and 20.7%. The sharpness and the contrast between gray and white matter were improved with the k‐space filtering correction for all of the flip angle designs. The improvements were moderate for the Hann window correction.

Conclusion

This work demonstrates that variable flip angles can be derived as the output of an optimization problem. The combined design of variable flip angle and k‐space filtering provided superior SNR to designs primarily emphasizing either approach singly.
Minimum echo time PRESS‐based proton observed carbon edited (POCE) MRS in rat brain using simultaneous editing and localization pulses
Authors: Kumaragamage Chathura , Madularu Dan , Mathieu Axel P. , Lupinsky Derek , de Graaf Robin A. , Near Jamie
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Indirect 13C MRS by proton‐observed carbon editing (POCE) is a powerful method to study brain metabolism. The sensitivity of POCE‐MRS can be enhanced through the use of short TEs, which primarily minimizes homonuclear J‐evolution related losses; previous POCE‐MRS implementations use longer than optimal echo times due to sequence limitations, or short TE image selected in vivo spectroscopy‐based multi‐shot acquisitions for 3D localization. To that end, this paper presents a novel single‐shot point resolved spectroscopy (PRESS)‐localized POCE‐MRS sequence that involves the application of simultaneous editing and localization pulses (SEAL)‐PRESS, allowing the TE to be reduced to a theoretically optimal value of ∼ 1/JHC.

Methods

The optimized SEAL‐PRESS sequence was first evaluated in simulation and in phantom; next, the sequence was validated with dynamic in vivo POCE‐MRS performed in a rat preparation during a 1,6‐13C2‐Glc infusion, and on a microwave fixed rat brain following a 2‐hour [1,6‐13C2]‐Glc infusion. POCE spectra from the SEAL‐PRESS sequence were compared against a previously described 12.6‐ms PRESS‐POCE sequence utilizing a classical carbon editing scheme.

Results

The SEAL‐PRESS sequence provides > 95% editing efficiency, optimal sensitivity, and localization for POCE MRS with an overall sequence TE of 8.1 ms. Signal amplitude of 13C‐labeled metabolites Glu‐H4, Gln‐H4, Glx‐H3, Glc‐H6 +Glx‐H2, and Asp‐H2 were shown to be improved by >17% relative to a 12.6‐ms PRESS‐POCE sequence in vivo.

Conclusion

We report for the first time, a single‐shot PRESS‐localized and edited 8.1‐ms TE POCE‐MRS sequence with optimal sensitivity, editing efficiency, and localization.
Robust SENSE reconstruction of simultaneous multislice EPI with low‐rank enhanced coil sensitivity calibration and slice‐dependent 2D Nyquist ghost correction
Authors: Lyu Mengye , Barth Markus , Xie Victor B. , Liu Yilong , Ma Xin , Feng Yanqiu , Wu Ed X.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To improve simultaneous multislice (SMS) EPI by robust Nyquist ghost correction in both coil sensitivity calibration and SMS reconstruction.

Methods

To derive coil sensitivity and slice‐dependent phase difference map between positive‐ and negative‐echo images, single‐band EPI reference data are fully sampled with EPI parameters matched to SMS acquisition. First, the reference data are organized into positive‐ and negative‐echo virtual channels where missing data are estimated using low‐rank‐based simultaneous autocalibrating and k‐space estimation (SAKE) at small matrix size. The resulting ghost‐free positive‐ and negative‐echo images are combined to generate coil sensitivity maps. Second, full‐matrix positive‐ and negative‐echo images are SENSE reconstructed from the reference data. Their phase difference or error map is then calculated. Last, SMS EPI is reconstructed using phase error correction SENSE (PEC‐SENSE) that incorporates phase error map into coil sensitivity maps for negative‐echo data. The proposed method was evaluated using both experimental data from 7T systems and simulations.

Results

Virtual coil SAKE eliminated Nyquist ghosts in the single‐band EPI, yielding high‐quality coil sensitivity maps and phase error maps. The subsequent PEC‐SENSE robustly reconstructed SMS EPI under various conditions, including presence of in‐plane acceleration, with lesser artifacts and higher temporal SNR than slice‐dependent 1D linear correction method.

Conclusion

The proposed procedure of virtual coil SAKE calibration and PEC‐SENSE reconstruction substantially reduces all ghost‐related artifacts originating either directly from SMS EPI data or indirectly from EPI‐based coil sensitivity maps. It is computationally efficient, and generally applicable to all SMS EPI‐based applications.
Synthesis and characterization of flexible/stretchable polyimide having long/bulky aryl pendent group and polyimide/silicon dioxide nanocomposites.
Authors: Tharakan Simi Annie , Raju Sathyamurthy , Balasubramaniam Radha , Muthusamy Sarojadevi
Published: February 2018

A new diamine monomer having ether and azomethine linkages in the long pendent group was synthesized. New polyimide was prepared by reacting the new diamine with BTDA and nanocomposites were prepared with silicon dioxide as nanofiller. SEM analysis shows a uniform distribution of the nanopowder in the polyimide matrix. TGA shows that the polyimide and nanocomposites have good thermal stability with the T10% values varying between 440 and 458°C. DSC analysis shows Tg values between 210 and 230°C. The neat polyimide shows high elongation at break and stretchability (260%) but low tensile strength. The nanocomposites of polyimide show lower elongation at break but have improved tensile strength. The chemically imidised polyimide shows good solubility in solvents like N, N‐dimethyl formamide, N, N‐dimethyl acetamide, and N‐methyl 2‐pyrrollidone. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:832–843, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Enhancing interfacial strength and hydrothermal aging resistance of silicone resin composites by different modification of carbon fibers with silica nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Chunxu , Zhang Xiandong , Wu Guangshun
Published: February 2018

Besides the well‐designed combination of the fibers and matrix resin, the fiber‐matrix interface plays a key role in bulk properties of composites. Here, the chemical grafting of silica nanoparticle (SiO2) onto fiber surface (CF‐g‐SiO2) using the bridging toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate has been achieved and compared with the physical adsorption one (CF‐ad‐SiO2). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the covalent bonding nature between SiO2 and CF. By atomic force microscopy observation, coating or grafting SiO2 on the surface of CFs also enhanced fiber surface polarity and roughness. However, CF‐g‐SiO2 showed a better uniform distribution of SiO2 on the fiber surface compared with CF‐ad‐SiO2 with the serious agglomeration of SiO2. These results of dynamic contact angle measurements indicated that CF‐ad‐SiO2 and CF‐g‐SiO2 had the similar increase degree of surface free energy, which contributed to improve the wettability between CFs and matrix resin. Interfacial shear strength (IFSS) and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) showed great enhancements, especially for CF‐g‐SiO2 composites, which increased 10.92% in ILSS and 10.71% in IFSS compared with those of CF‐ad‐SiO2 composites. Moreover, the interfacial reinforcing mechanisms have also been studied. Additionally, the introduced Si‐O‐Si bonds at the interface by SiO2 coating or grafting resulted in the different improved degree of the hydrothermal aging resistance. The results showed that the quality of fiber‐matrix interface could be tuned by varying the bonding natures between CFs and the modifiers, and chemically grafting SiO2 onto the fiber surface is the promising multifunctional reinforcement. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E975–E982, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Homogeneity quantification of nanoparticles dispersion in composite materials
Authors: Luo Bingcheng , Wang Xiaohui , Tian Miao , Cai Ziming , Li Longtu
Published: February 2018

As the quantitative evaluation of dispersion of nanoparticles are crucial for the research of nanocomposites, including ceramic, metal, and polymer nanocomposites, we proposed two quantifiable tools for the evaluation of dispersion in the nanocomposites by using machine‐learning algorithms, that is the coefficient of variation of K‐nearest neighboring distances (CVKD value) and the information entropy derived from the probability density function. In total 230 different type of dispersion morphologies of nanocomposites were investigated by using K‐nearest neighboring algorithms, Gaussian mixture model, expectation maximization, and Kernel density estimation algorithms. The smaller values of CVKD or information entropy represented much more homogeneous dispersion of nanoparticles. It might be expected the information exhibited in the present study could assist in the rational design and fabrication of superior nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1000–1005, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cerebellar herniation demonstrated by the occipitum‐dens line: Ultrasonography assessment of normal fetuses, fetuses with myelomeningocele, and fetuses that underwent antenatal myelomeningocele surgery
Authors: Barreto Enoch Quinderé de Sá , Cavalheiro Sérgio , Milani Herbene José Figuinha , Barbosa Maurício Mendes , Araujo Júnior Edward , Nardozza Luciano Marcondes Machado , Moron Antonio Fernandes
Published: February 2018

Objective

To establish a method to quantify the position of the cerebellum by ultrasonography in normal fetuses, fetuses with myelomeningocele (MMC), and fetuses that underwent in utero MMC repair.

Methods

Reference points identifiable on ultrasound were established. The basilar portion of the occipital bone and upper portion of the odontoid process were considered as the external and internal limits, respectively, of the level zero of a line that was designated the occipitum‐dens line (ODL). Eighty‐three normal fetuses were assessed 1 occasion (cross‐sectional study) in addition to 25 fetuses with MMC and 25 fetuses that underwent in utero MMC repair. The groups were compared using analysis of variance or the Kruskal‐Wallis test. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to determine intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility.

Results

The analysis of ODL indicated that all normal fetuses had the cerebellar tonsil above level zero at a mean distance of 2.8 ± 1.1 mm (P = 0.125). The fetuses with MMC had the cerebellar tonsil below level zero, except in 2 cases of myelocystocele. All the fetuses that underwent in utero MMC repair exhibited regression of the cerebellar herniation (0.5 mm per week,P < 0.005). Herniation increased gradually (1.0 mm per week,P < 0.005) in fetuses that did not undergo MMC repair. ICC indicated good intra‐ and interobserver reproducibility (0.996 and 0.983, respectively).

Conclusion

The reference points for ODL may be used to assess cerebellar height. ODL allowed the demonstration of the regression of cerebellar herniation in fetuses that underwent in utero MMC repair.
Preparation and properties of phenolic resin/graphene oxide encapsulated SiO2 nanoparticles composites
Authors: Chen Juan , Zhang Wenbo , Ge Heyi , Tan Juanjuan , Liu Jianye
Published: February 2018

The hybrids of graphene oxide (GO) encapsulated nano‐SiO2 (SiO2‐GO) were introduced into phenolic resin (PR) to enhance thermal stability of PR. The effect mechanism was investigated in detail. Through electrostatic self‐assembly method, the SiO2 nanoparticles were evenly distributed onto the surface of GO. This structure could not only prevent the aggregation of nano‐SiO2, but also alleviate the phenomenons of crimp and stack for GO sheets in PR. Nano‐SiO2 and GO showed elaborate synergistic effect on thermal stability of PR. Compared with the pristine PR, the 2 wt% SiO2‐GO/PR composite showed higher T5%, T10%, and Tdmax, which were increased by 65.39, 62.23, and 23.17°C, respectively. And the char yield at 800°C increased from 64.78% to 69.38%. Thus, SiO2‐GO hybrids can facilitate the application of PR in the fields of heat insulation and ablation resistance. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:2143–2148, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and application of polyaniline nanofibers: an overview
Authors: Wang Yanmin
Published: February 2018

Polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers have enhanced water processibility and improved sensitivity and response time when exposed to chemical vapors, and unique advantages in other fields including electric devices and corrosion inhibition. Therefore, PANI nanofibers have attracted great interest and have potential for many commercial applications. In this paper, the advantages, formation mechanism, characteristics and factors influencing various methods for preparing PANI nanofibers are described in detail. Their conductive properties and mechanism are briefly introduced. Finally, the potential applications of PANI nanofibers are elaborated in many fields such as gas sensors, capacitors, electrode materials for cells, removal of contaminants from water, corrosion inhibition, enzyme immobilization, Schottky diodes, and so on. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Illuminating structure and acyl donor sites of a physiological transglutaminase substrate from Streptomyces mobaraensis
Authors: Juettner Norbert E. , Schmelz Stefan , Bogen Jan P. , Happel Dominic , Fessner Wolf‐Dieter , Pfeifer Felicitas , Fuchsbauer Hans‐Lothar , Scrima Andrea
Published: February 2018

Transglutaminase from Streptomyces mobaraensis (MTG) has become a powerful tool to covalently and highly specifically link functional amines to glutamine donor sites of therapeutic proteins. However, details regarding the mechanism of substrate recognition and interaction of the enzyme with proteinaceous substrates still remain mostly elusive. We have determined the crystal structure of the Streptomyces papain inhibitory protein (SPIp), a substrate of MTG, to study the influence of various substrate amino acids on positioning glutamine to the active site of MTG. SPIp exhibits a rigid, thermo‐resistant double‐psi‐beta‐barrel fold that is stabilized by two cysteine bridges. Incorporation of biotin cadaverine identified Gln‐6 as the only amine acceptor site on SPIp accessible for MTG. Substitution of Lys‐7 demonstrated that small and hydrophobic residues in close proximity to Gln‐6 favor MTG‐mediated modification and are likely to facilitate introduction of the substrate into the front vestibule of MTG. Moreover, exchange of various surface residues of SPIp for arginine and glutamate/aspartate outside the glutamine donor region influences the efficiency of modification by MTG. These results suggest the occurrence of charged contact areas between MTG and the acyl donor substrates beyond the front vestibule, and pave the way for protein engineering approaches to improve the properties of artificial MTG‐substrates used in biomedical applications.