bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo testing of a bioresorbable phosphate‐based optical fiber
Authors: Podrazký Ondřej , Peterka Pavel , Kašík Ivan , Vytykáčová Soňa , Proboštová Jana , Mrázek Jan , Kuneš Martin , Závalová Veronika , Radochová Věra , Lyutakov Oleksiy , Ceci‐Ginistrelli Edoardo , Pugliese Diego , Boetti Nadia G. , Janner Davide , Milanese Daniel
Published: January 2019

Optical fibers have recently attracted a noticeable interest for biomedical applications because they provide a minimally invasive method for in vivo sensing, imaging techniques, deep‐tissue photodynamic therapy or optogenetics. The silica optical fibers are the most commonly used because they offer excellent optical properties, and they are readily available at a reasonable price. The fused silica is a biocompatible material, but it is not bioresorbable so it does not decompose in the body and the fibers must be ex‐planted after in vivo use and their fragments can present a considerable risk to the patient when the fiber breaks. In contrast, optical fibers made of phosphate glasses can bring many benefits because such glasses exhibit good transparency in ultraviolet‐visible and near‐infrared regions, and their solubility in water can be tailored by changing the chemical composition. The bioresorbability and toxicity of phosphate glass–based optical fibers were tested in vivo on male laboratory rats for the first time. The fiber was spliced together with a standard graded‐index multi‐mode fiber pigtail and an optical probe for in vitro pH measurement was prepared by the immobilization of a fluorescent dye on the fiber tip by a sol‐gel method to demonstrate applicability and compatibility of the fiber with common fiber optics.
A hybrid small‐diameter tube fabricated from decellularized aortic intima‐media and electrospun fiber for artificial small‐diameter blood vessel
Authors: Wu Pingli , Nakamura Naoko , Morita Hiroko , Nam Kwangwoo , Fujisato Toshiya , Kimura Tsuyoshi , Kishida Akio
Published: January 2019

Hybrid small‐diameter tubes were fabricated by wrapping decellularized aortic intima‐media sheets around a tubular stainless steel mandrel with diameter 4 mm, and then by coating with electrospun segmented polyurethane. The synthetic coat was deposited uniformly to a thickness of about 0.5–3.5 μm depending on the duration of electrospinning. Resistance to luminal pressure, burst strength, and stiffness increased with the thickness of the electrospun coat, suggesting that the synthetic fabric reinforces the reconstructed acellular aortic intima‐media. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells seeded on the inner surface acquired flagstone morphology, while normal human dermal fibroblasts seeded on the outer surface proliferated well and partly migrated into deeper layers. Collectively, the data suggest that reinforcing decellularized aortic intima‐media with electrospun fibers generates a small‐diameter hybrid blood vessel with good biocompatibility and suitable mechanical properties. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1064–1070, 2019.
Reduction potential calculations of the Fe–S clusters in Thermus thermophilus respiratory complex I
Authors: Tran Kelly N. , Niu Shuqiang , Ichiye Toshiko
Published: January 2019

Respiratory complex I facilitates electron transfer from NADH to quinone over ~95 Å through a chain of seven iron–sulfur (Fe–S) clusters in the respiratory chain. In this study, the reduction potentials of the Fe–S clusters in Thermus thermophilus complex I are calculated using a Density Functional Theory + Poisson–Boltzmann method. Our results indicate that the reduction potentials are influenced by a variety of factors including the clusters being deeply buried in the complex and the protonation state of buried ionizable residues. In addition, as several of the ionizable side chains have predicted pKa values near pH 7, relatively small structural fluctuations could lead to significant (0.2 V) shifts in the reduction potential of several of the Fe–S clusters, suggesting a dynamic mechanism for electron transfer. Moreover, the method used here is a useful computational tool to study other questions about complex I. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Catalytic performance of bis(imino)pyridine Fe/Co complexes toward ethylene polymerization by 2D‐/3D‐QSPR modeling
Authors: Yang Wenhong , Ma Zhifeng , Yi Jun , Ahmed Sadia , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: January 2019

The two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional quantitative structure–property relationship (2D‐ and 3D‐QSPR) approaches are applied to investigate the catalytic performance for a total data set of 55 bis(imino)pryridine iron and cobalt complexes, including the catalytic activity, molecular weight, and melting temperature of the product. The obtained models for the catalytic performance of interest exhibit good results by both 2D‐ and 3D‐QSPR modeling, meanwhile higher predictive and validation powers observed in the 3D type. The modeling results indicate that the bulky substituents on ortho‐position of the singular side phenyl ring and positive charge on para‐position of the phenyl ring within the ligand are favorable to catalytic activity, while unfavorable to the molecular weight of product. Based on the obtained QSPR models, four new complexes are designed and predicted with good catalytic activity and very high molecular weight, which are in good agreement with our recent experimental report. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zyxin as a potential cancer prognostic marker promotes the proliferation and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Zhong Chenhan , Yu Jiekai , Li Dan , Jiang Kai , Tang Yang , Yang Mengyuan , Shen Hong , Fang Xuefeng , Ding Kefeng , Zheng Shu , Yuan Ying
Published: January 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer death. This study was conducted to investigate the functions and mechanisms of Zyxin (ZYX) in CRC. Multiomics analysis associated ZYX with CRC metastasis. ZYX expression levels were increased in human CRC tissues and related to shorter recurrence‐free survival. Knockdown of ZYX expression resulted in inhibition of cell growth, invasion, and migration in vitro and in vivo. Comprehensive analysis of gene microarray analysis showed that ZYX may activate the pathway of NUPR1 and JNK, inhibit CST5, regulate focal adhesion (FA), and affect epithelial–mesenchymal transition in CRC cells. Results of gene microarray and membrane protein isobaric tags with relative and absolute quantitation labeling mass spectrometry found ten differentially expressed genes, which were associated with ZYX activity. Furthermore, real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to validate the expression patterns of selected genes in the integrative analysis. Taken together, our findings provide the first evidence that decreased expression level of ZYX impairs CRC cell proliferation and metastasis probably via the FA pathway.
Enhanced Intranasal Absorption of Naltrexone by Dodecyl Maltopyranoside: Implications for the Treatment of Opioid Overdose
Authors: Krieter Philip , Gyaw Shwe , Chiang C. Nora , Crystal Roger , Skolnick Phil
Published: January 2019

Based on its high affinity for μ opiate receptors and reported half‐life after oral administration, the pharmacokinetic properties of intranasal naltrexone were examined to evaluate its potential to treat opioid overdose. This study was prompted by the marked rise in overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which may require more potent, longer‐lived opiate antagonists than naloxone. Both the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and the time (Tmax) to reach Cmax for intranasal naltrexone (4 mg) were comparable to values reported for a Food and Drug Administration‐approved 4‐mg dose of intranasal naloxone. The addition of the absorption enhancer dodecyl maltoside (Intravail) increased Cmax by ∼3‐fold and reduced the Tmax from 0.5 to 0.17 hours. Despite these very rapid increases in plasma concentrations of naltrexone, its short half‐life following intranasal administration (∼2.2 hours) could limit its usefulness as a rescue medication, particularly against longer‐lived synthetic opioids. Nonetheless, the ability to rapidly attain high plasma concentrations of naltrexone may be useful in other indications, including an as‐needed dosing strategy to treat alcohol use disorder.
Biological oxidation of choline‐based ionic liquids in sequencing batch reactors
Authors: Mena Ismael F , Diaz Elena , Rodriguez Juan J , Mohedano Angel F
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Ionic liquids (ILs) are salts consisting of an organic cation and an organic or inorganic anion that are potential use for organic synthesis, biomass conversion, gas absorption, polymerization, metal extraction and lubrication. We examined the biodegradability of choline chloride (CholineCl), choline acetate (CholineAc) and choline bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (CholineNTf2) in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) to assess the influence of the IL anion.

RESULTS

Following acclimation, activated sludge exhibited good activity, and high COD (80–90%) and TOC removal (75–85%) with initial concentrations of CholineCl and CholineAc over the range 0.25–15 mmol L–1. However, increased concentrations of CholineNTf2 in the reactor feed had an inhibitory effect on the sludge. An analysis of the reaction effluent revealed the presence of the main intermediates of choline degradation: ethanol, and methyl‐, dimethyl‐ and trimethylamine. The initial and final microbial communities of the sludge were characterized by pyrosequencing analysis, and the latter was found to consist mainly of Alfa‐, Beta‐ and Gamma‐proteobacteria.

CONCLUSION

Choline‐based ionic liquids can be efficiently removed in SBRs. Complete choline degradation (0.25–15 mmol L–1) was accomplished at a variable depletion rate depending on the particular IL anion (chloride, acetate or NTf2). © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Doppler ultrasonography criteria of superior mesenteric artery stenosis
Authors: Biri Suzan , Biri İsmail , Gultekin Yucel , Yurdakul Mehmet , Ozdemir Mustafa , Tola Muharrem
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The techniques mostly used for the diagnosis of superior mesenteric artery (SMA) stenosis are computed tomography angiography (CTA), and magnetic resonance angiography. We aimed to evaluate color‐coded Doppler Ultrasonography (CDUS) for the detection of SMA stenoses and to determine Doppler criteria.

Methods

We identified retrospectively 65 patients with CTA images of SMA stenosis and examined them with CDUS for the Doppler measurement of SMA peak systolic flow velocity (PSV), end‐diastolic velocity (EDV), and mesenterico‐aortic ratio (MAR). Results were analyzed with receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

The optimal threshold values for determining 50%‐69% SMA stenoses were PSV >280 cm/s, EDV >45 cm/s, and MAR >3.6. For identifying 70%‐99% SMA stenoses, they were PSV >395 cm/s, EDV >74 cm/s, and MAR >3.6.

Conclusion

CDUS is a convenient method with high accuracy for identifying SMA stenosis. PSV yielded better results than EDV and MAR.
Changes in Carcinogenic Heterocyclic Amines during in vitro Digestion
Authors: Kim Hyeong Sang , Hur Sun Jin
Published: January 2019

The high amounts of heterocyclic amines (HCAs) in overcooked foods are known carcinogens. However, the quantitative changes in carcinogenic substances, such as HCAs, caused by human digestion, have not been studied. This study was performed to evaluate the effects of digestive enzymes and the enterobacteria, Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Lactobacillus casei (L. casei), on the quantitative changes in four HCAs: 2‐amino‐3,4,8‐trimethylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline (4,8‐DiMeIQx), 2‐amino‐3,7,8‐trimethylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline (7,8‐DiMeIQx), 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoline (IQ), and 2‐amino‐3,8‐dimethylimidazo[4,5‐f]quinoxaline (MeIQx). Digestive enzymes gradually reduced the amount of four HCAs during in vitro experiments (p < 0.05). The concentration of all HCAs rapidly decreased after digestion in the mouth and stomach. L. casei dramatically reduced the amount of HCAs during in vitro digestion (p < 0.05). From the results of this study, we hypothesize that the amount of HCAs in overcooked food could be decreased, and their risk could be reduced during human digestion by digestive enzymes and enterobacteria.
Trimerization of 4‐Amino‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole: Formation, Preparation, and Characterization of 4‐Diazo‐3,5‐bis(4‐amino‐3,5‐dinitropyrazol‐1‐yl) pyrazole (LLM‐226)
Authors: Zhang Mao‐Xi , Pagoria Philip F. , Imler Gregory H. , Parrish Damon
Published: January 2019

4‐Amino‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole (LLM‐116, 1) undergoes trimerization to 4‐diazo‐3,5‐bis(4‐amino‐3,5‐dinitropyrazol‐1‐yl) pyrazole (LLM‐226) upon heating. A mechanism is proposed and discussed. LLM‐226 is a new diazo‐based energetic material, thermally stable, and insensitive to impact, friction, and spark. The material may be prepared by heating 1 and 4‐diazo‐3,5‐dinitropyrazole (2) in a mixture of toluene and butyl acetate at 110°C or heating 1 alone in dichlorobenzene at 160°C. The characterization of LLM‐226 including X‐ray crystallographic analysis and small‐scale safety properties will be discussed.
Design and comparative analysis of conventional and metamaterial‐based textile antennas for wearable applications
Authors: Ali Usman , Ullah Sadiq , Shafi Muhammad , Shah Syed A.A. , Shah Izaz A. , Flint James A.
Published: January 2019

In this paper, four different models of a 2.4 GHz flexible microstrip patch wearable antenna are designed and analyzed. The basic geometry of the radiating element of the antennas is a rectangular patch and is backed by conventional, mushroom‐type, slotted, and spiral electromagnetic band gap (EBG) ground planes. A 3‐mm‐thick wash cotton textile is used as a substrate material in the design of the antennas as well as EBG surfaces. An electro‐textile (Zelt) is used as a conductive material for the proposed antennas. The performance of these antennas is analyzed in terms of return loss, gain, bandwidth efficiency, and specific absorption rate (SAR) using Computer Simulation Technology Microwave Studio (CST MWS). The designed antennas are further investigated for on and off body conditions under normal and bent states. The experimental results show that the antennas radiate with an adequate gain (5.72‐7.3 dB), bandwidth (65.43‐103.1 MHz), and efficiency (55.51%‐74.04%), depending on the type of the ground plane used. The antenna backed by the mushroom‐type EBG gives the smallest value of SAR (1.79 W/kg < 2 W/kg), which makes it a suitable candidate for body worn applications in the unlicensed industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band.
Experimental Design for Optimizing the Cleaning of Starch Adhering to Stainless‐Steel Surfaces Using Nonionic Surfactants and Silica Microparticles
Authors: Herrera‐Márquez Otilia , Vicaria José M. , Jurado‐Alameda Encarnación
Published: January 2019

The statistical design of experiments has been used to assess the detergency of starch adhering to stainless steel considering three factors: pH, flow rate, and concentration of silica particles in the cleaning solution. The cleaning tests were carried out in a continuous‐flow device that simulates the behavior of a Cleaning‐In‐Place washing system. Different statistical designs were used to evaluate the detergency of cleaning solutions in the absence of surfactants and with two nonionic surfactants, i.e., an ethoxylated alcohol, and an alkylpolyglucoside (APG). Expressions were developed to simulate detergency levels as a function of the variables assayed, determining the optimal detergency of each cleaning solution studied. The results indicate that the variable most influential on detergency was pH. Cleaning solutions with high alkalinity are required to achieve a significant cleaning efficiency. On the other hand, the silica‐particle concentration did not influence the detergency results using cleaning solutions without surfactants. Nevertheless, the addition of either the ethoxylated alcohol or the APG to the cleaning solution with silica particles has a significant effect on detergency: it diminished with the ethoxylated alcohol and increased with the APG. Maximum detergency was found at the highest level of pH, particle concentration, and flow rate when the APG was added to the cleaning solution.
Use of a Doppler‐Based Pulsatility Index to Evaluate Cerebral Hemodynamics in Neurocritical Patients After Hemicraniectomy
Authors: Gao Yu‐zhi , Li Qiang , Wu Chun‐shuang , Liu Shao‐yun , Zhang Mao
Published: January 2019

Objectives

As a noninvasive method for evaluation of cerebral hemodynamics, the correct interpretation of transcranial Doppler or transcranial imaging (TCI) data remains a major challenge. We explored how to interpret the pulsatility index (PI) derived via TCI during evaluations of cerebral hemodynamics in posthemicraniectomy patients.

Methods

We included patients who underwent invasive arterial pressure and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring and simultaneous TCI examinations after hemicraniectomy. We classified the PI of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) into ipsilateral (craniectomy side) and contralateral (opposite side) and analyzed both data sets. The statistical analysis was performed by the Bland‐Altman approach, by calculating intraclass correlation coefficients and Spearman correlations, and by drawing receiver operating characteristic curves. Pulsatility index probability charts were created for ICPs exceeding 20, 25, and 30 mm Hg and cerebral perfusion pressures (CPPs) lower than 70, 60, and 50 mm Hg; we thus explored defined ICP and CPP values.

Results

The ipsilateral and contralateral MCA PI data differed. Only the ipsilateral MCA PI showed a weak correlation with ICP (r = 0.378; P < .001). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed limited diagnostic utility of bilateral MCA PIs for ICP and CPP assessments. An extremely elevated MCA PI indicated that patients were at high risk of a dangerous ICP elevation or CPP reduction. However, MCA PI values within the normal range did not effectively rule out an ICP of 20 mm Hg or higher but effectively eliminated a CPP lower than 50 mm Hg.

Conclusions

In posthemicraniectomy patients, the Doppler‐based MCA PI value was ineffectively for quantitative ICP and CPP evaluations but a useful index for assessment of cerebral hemodynamics in terms of the probability of an ICP elevation or a CPP reduction.
Patient‐defined duration of benefit from juvederm (hyaluronic acid) used in injection laryngoplasty
Authors: Bertroche J. Tyler , Radder Megan , Kallogjeri Dorina , Paniello Randal C. , Bradley Joseph P.
Published: January 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Injection laryngoplasty has become valuable in treating laryngologic disorders including vocal cord atrophy, paralysis, and paresis. Although materials such as carboxymethylcellulose and calcium hydroxylapatite are Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved, they are not without limitations. Juvederm (hyaluronic acid) is an alternative treatment that is not FDA approved. Although studies have examined Juvederm's longevity in cutaneous injections, there are limited data examining durability of Juvederm used in laryngoplasty. We aimed to determine the longevity and effectiveness of Juvederm used in injection laryngoplasty.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Subjects who underwent injection laryngoplasty using Juvederm were reviewed. Longevity was defined as the time between injection and the date that a patient first noted subjective deterioration of their voice. All subjects were subsequently followed using videostroboscopy to evaluate for Juvederm resorption. Longevity was analyzed using a Kaplan‐Meier survival model, and effectiveness of laryngoplasty was determined using the Voice‐Related Quality of Life index scores and analyzed using a Wilcoxon signed ranks test.

Results

Fifty‐nine subjects met inclusion criteria and underwent Juvederm injection laryngoplasty. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis revealed a mean longevity of 10.6 months (95% confidence interval: 9.1‐12.0 months). Wilcoxon signed ranks analysis of the pre‐ and postinjection Voice Related Quality of Life (VRQOL) scores revealed improvement, with a mean preinjection VRQOL of 49.2 (standard deviation [SD] = 25.8) and mean postinjection VRQOL of 68.2 (SD = 27.5) (P < .001).

Conclusions

Injection laryngoplasty using Juvederm is an effective treatment for vocal cord atrophy, paralysis, and paresis. Knowledge of the patient‐defined duration of benefit following laryngoplasty using Juvederm plays an important role in counseling patients as well as in the planning of future interventions.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:2744–2747, 2019
Long‐term optimization of crop yield while concurrently improving soil quality
Authors: Pan Junxiao , Zhang Ling , He Xiaoming , Chen Xinping , Cui Zhenling
Published: January 2019

Sustainably feeding the growing human population requires improvements in both soil quality and nitrogen (N) management. However, in response to N fertilizer addition, whether soil quality will be optimized at N application rates that maximize yields is rarely explored from a long‐term perspective. We conducted a 9‐year field experiment to examine agronomic and soil quality indices in a wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)/maize (Zea mays L.) double cropping system. Optimal nitrogen rates (ONR) were determined by in‐season soil NO3−‐N testing. Other treatments included control plots, 50–70% ONR, 130–150% ONR, and local farmers' N practices (FNP). The ONR increased grain yield by 10.5% in comparison with the 50–70% ONR treatment and achieved yields comparable to the 130–150% ONR treatment. The ONR treatment reduced the applied N fertilization rate by 38.5% in comparison with FNP levels but without any yield losses. After N fertilization for 9 years, soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks, C sequestration rates, and soil microbial biomass C were the highest with the ONR treatment. Relative to the control, the ONR treatment significantly increased the weight diameter of soil water‐stable aggregates, reduced the richness and diversity of fungi, and reduced the richness of bacteria in comparison with the FNP treatment. Furthermore, the soil microbial community structure had a significant relationship with the SOC, organic C input, and soil inorganic N content, which was ascribed to the driving of N management strategy. These results highlight the importance of the optimization of N management to produce high grain with less N fertilizer input in agricultural systems while concurrently promoting soil quality and providing benefits to the microbial community.
Resolvin E1 Improves Mitochondrial Function in Human Alveolar Epithelial Cells during Severe Inflammation
Authors: Mayer Konstantin , Sommer Natascha , Hache Karl , Hecker Andreas , Reiche Sylvia , Schneck Emmanuel , Weissmann Norbert , Seeger Werner , Hecker Matthias
Published: January 2019

Severe inflammatory disorders such as sepsis are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Mitochondrial dysfunction is regarded as a key feature involved in inflammation pathogenesis. In the present study, we investigated the impact of the omega‐3 fatty acid‐derived lipid mediator Resolvin E1 (RvE1) on mitochondrial function in experimental pulmonary inflammation. RvE1 was found to exert anti‐inflammatory properties in human alveolar epithelial cells during severe inflammation. RvE1 is capable of restoring inflammation‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and the impaired imbalance of mitochondrial fission and fusion. Experimental inhibition of mitochondrial fission with Mdivi‐1 in our model is associated with a significantly reduced inflammatory response and improved mitochondrial function. These findings suggest a novel functional mechanism for the beneficial effects of RvE1 in experimental pulmonary inflammatory reactions.
Liver Transplantation in France
Authors: Durand François , Antoine Corinne , Soubrane Olivier
Published: January 2019

In France, the main indications for liver transplantation are hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and alcoholic cirrhosis. The number of candidates for decompensated hepatitis C virus–related cirrhosis has markedly decreased since the advent of direct‐acting antiviral agents. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis represents a lower proportion of candidates as compared with the United States. The main source of donors is donation after brain death, but the program of transplantation using donation after circulatory death is growing with excellent results. The deceased donation rate was 28.8 per million people in 2017, which has increased over the last few years. Adult‐to‐adult living donor liver transplantation has been almost completely abandoned. Donors are allocated on a national basis, and there is no longer local or regional priority. In patients with decompensated cirrhosis, prioritization is based on the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score. The distance between the donor and the recipient is taken into account according to an original gravity model. In patients with HCC, prioritization depends on the alfa‐fetoprotein (AFP) score, the MELD score, and waiting time. Only patients with HCC tumor‐node‐metastasis ≥2 and AFP score ≤2 are eligible for the HCC score. A list of MELD exceptions, consisting of uncommon complications where mortality risk is not adequately predicted by the MELD score and conditions other than cirrhosis, has been established. MELD exceptions must be individually validated by a college of experts mandated by the French Regulatory Agency of Transplantation (Agence de la Biomédecine). The most common MELD exception is refractory ascites with a low MELD score. A major challenge is to reduce the rate of refusal of donation through information campaigns.
Preparation of C/C‐SiC Composites from All‐Cellulose Precursors
Authors: Schneck Tanja K. , Müller Alexandra , Hermanutz Frank , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: January 2019

All‐cellulose composites (ACCs) are manufactured from high‐performance cellulose fibers and a cellulose‐containing ionic liquid (IL) as matrix‐forming dope via wet‐winding processes, using different concentrations of cellulose in the IL. ACCs are carbonized at 1650 °C and then infiltrated with liquid silicon. Application of a carbonization aid (ammonium dihydrogenphosphate, ADHP) substantially improves the carbon yield after carbonization but also results in the depletion of the mechanical properties of the final carbon/carbon silicon carbide (C/C‐SiC) material. The microstructure of the porous carbon/carbon preforms strongly depends on both the concentration of cellulose in the IL and the concentration of ADHP. A C/C‐SiC composite manufactured from 6 wt% cellulose in the matrix‐forming dope, in the absence of ADHP, has a maximum flexural strength of 60 MPa. New C/C‐SiC composites with different shapes including Z‐profiles and tubes are successfully manufactured from pre‐shaped ACC precursors. These composites keep their shape during carbonization and the final siliconization process step.
Unraveling the Correlation between Structures of Carbon Nanospheres Derived from Polymeric Spheres and Their Electrochemical Performance to Achieve High‐Rate Supercapacitors
Authors: Xu Fei , Qiu Yuqian , Jiang Guangshen , Ding Baichuan , Li Jingyuan , Liu Qianhui , Wu Jianping , Xu Xiaosa , Wang Hongqiang , Liang Yeru
Published: January 2019

Understanding correlation between the nanostructure of porous carbons and their ion transport behavior is critical for achieving high‐performance supercapacitors. Herein, the relationship between size and shell thickness of carbon nanospheres (CNSs) and capacitive electrochemical performance is clarified. Structural uniform CNSs with controlled diameters, prepared via template‐free interfacial copolymerization, are emerging as an ideal platform for investigating the ion transport behavior. It is found that ionic transport is significantly enhanced while the introduction of hollow cores with thinner shell, by virtue of the hollow nanopore‐accelerated mass transport to reduce ion diffusion length. The proof‐of‐concept supercapacitors, constituted of carbons with diameter and shell thickness of 91 and 28 nm, respectively, can maintain highest capacitance retention ratio of 86% at a high sweep rate of 300 mVs−1, also far outperforming the commercial activated carbon in terms of capacitance, rate capability, and surface efficiency, promising a brilliant application.
Time stability of delta‐radiomics features and the impact on patient analysis in longitudinal CT images
Authors: Plautz Tia E. , Zheng Cheng , Noid George , Li X. Allen
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This study first aims to show that the values of texture features extracted from phantoms are stable over clinical timescales. Second, that changes in patients’ feature values over the course of radiation therapy (RT) are treatment induced and statistically significant.

Methods

The CT datasets of a 3D printed anatomically informed texture phantom containing liver and low‐contrast modules, and the homogeneous module of the Catphan 500‐Series phantom, were acquired once per week over the course of a 6‐week period, to simulate the timescale of conventional RT duration. A Definition AS Open CT scanner on rails (Siemens) and our institution’s standard abdominal protocol were used. In each phantom module, 8 regions of interest (20 cm) were selected and 50 texture features were extracted from each module over the longitudinal dataset. The time stability of each feature was evaluated. The expected variation over the treatment timescale was quantified for each texture (module). Subsequently, the pancreas heads of 10 patients who underwent RT for adenocarcinoma of the pancreas head with a pathologic response of at least “moderate" (grade 2), were contoured on the daily CTs acquired using the same scanner. The pancreas heads were contoured on one image per week. Mean CT number, skewness, kurtosis, and coarseness were extracted from these data. The phantom modules were shown to be accurate representations of these features in the pancreas data. The change in the feature value between fractions 2 and 26 was compared with the phantom data in order to identify significant changes in feature value.

Results

Of the 50 features examined in all 3 phantom modules, 47 were found to have zero time‐trend when a fit assuming homogeneous variance was used. When a fit allowing for heterogeneous variance was used, 49 features were found to have zero time‐trend. Features were stable and repeatable within a feature‐specific confidence interval over the 6‐week period of acquisition in all three phantom modules. Changes in feature value between fractions 2 and 26 were highly patient specific. Mean CT number was found to decrease significantly in 7 of 10 patients and increase significantly in one patient. Skewness increased significantly in one patient and decreased significantly in one patient. Kurtosis decreased significantly in four patients and increased significantly in one patient. Coarseness increased significantly in seven patients and decreased significantly in one patient. Only one patient experienced no significant changes in feature value.

Conclusion

The CT texture feature measurements of phantoms are stable and repeatable within a feature‐specific confidence interval in all three phantom modules. This suggests that the changes observed in features extracted from longitudinal patient CT data may be treatment induced, and demonstrates their potentiality for early assessment of treatment response.
Copolymerization of Styrene and Cardanol from Cashew Nut Shell Liquid. Part I – Kinetic Modeling of Bulk Copolymerizations
Authors: Costa Laura P. , Oechsler Bruno F. , Brandão Amanda L. T. , Galvão Letícia A. , Pinto José Carlos
Published: January 2019

The present manuscript investigates the bulk copolymerization of styrene and cardanol from cashew nut shell liquid. A kinetic mechanism is proposed and a mathematical model is derived. The model parameters are estimated in order to allow for appropriate description of monomer conversions, average molecular weights, and copolymer compositions of the produced copolymer. It is shown that cardanol exerts strong inhibitory effects on styrene polymerization, making incorporation of cardanol into the copolymer chains through homogeneous polymerizations challenging.
Translation and validation of the arabic version of the myasthenia gravis activities of daily living scale
Authors: Alanazy Mohammed H. , Abuzinadah Ahmad R. , Muayqil Taim
Published: January 2019

Introduction

We translated the myasthenia gravis (MG)‐specific activities of daily living (MG‐ADL) scale into Arabic (MG‐ADL‐A) and assessed its psychometric properties.

Methods

We assessed reliability using Cronbach's α, reproducibility using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and validity using Spearman's correlations with MG composite (MGC) score, MG‐specific manual muscle test (MG‐MMT), and MG quality‐of‐life revised Arabic version (MGQOL15R‐A). Differences in MG‐ADL‐A scores among patients with different disease severity were evaluated by using the Kruskal–Wallis test. Sensitivity to change was examined by using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

We recruited 87 patients. The mean MG‐ADL‐A score was 3.38 ± 3.38 (α = 0.77, ICC = 0.99). The correlation coefficients between the MG‐ADL‐A and MGQOL15R‐A, MGC, and MG‐MMT were 0.63, 0.74, and 0.61, respectively (P < 0.001). The MG‐ADL‐A discriminated between different severity groups and was responsive to clinical improvement at follow‐up.

Discussion

The MG‐ADL‐A has rigorous psychometric properties and can be used with Arabic‐speaking patients with MG. Muscle Nerve 59:583–583, 2019
On the convergence of operator splitting for the Rosenau–Burgers equation
Authors: Zürnacı Fatma , Seydaoğlu Muaz
Published: January 2019

We present convergence analysis of operator splitting methods applied to the nonlinear Rosenau–Burgers equation. The equation is first splitted into an unbounded linear part and a bounded nonlinear part and then operator splitting methods of Lie‐Trotter and Strang type are applied to the equation. The local error bounds are obtained by using an approach based on the differential theory of operators in Banach space and error terms of one and two‐dimensional numerical quadratures via Lie commutator bounds. The global error estimates are obtained via a Lady Windermere's fan argument. Lastly, a numerical example is studied to confirm the expected convergence order.
Impact of Free‐Choice Diets High in Fat and Different Sugars on Metabolic Outcome and Anxiety‐Like Behavior in Rats
Authors: Peris‐Sampedro Fiona , Mounib Myriam , Schéle Erik , Edvardsson Christian E. , Stoltenborg Iris , Adan Roger A. H. , Dickson Suzanne L.
Published: January 2019

Objective

Rats were exposed to free‐choice diets (fat plus one of two different sugar solutions, glucose or sucrose), and the metabolic consequences and impact on locomotor activity and anxiety‐like behavior were explored.

Methods

For 3 weeks, 7‐week‐old male rats were offered either chow only or free‐choice high‐fat diets differing in their added sugar: no sugar, sucrose, or glucose. In a second experiment, after 2 weeks on the diets, rats were switched from high sucrose to high glucose for two additional weeks. Metabolic end points included body weight, food intake, food choice, glycemic control, metabolic hormones, fat pad weight, brown adipose tissue weight, and gene expression. Behavioral analysis included locomotor and anxiety‐like activity in the open field and elevated plus maze.

Results

Both sugar diets enhanced adiposity and induced hyperphagia, favoring unhealthier dietary selection above that of the control diets (chow or free‐choice high‐fat with no sugar). Despite isocaloric intake in the sugar‐containing diets, offering glucose instead of sucrose was associated with improved insulin sensitivity. The sugar‐containing diets reduced activity (but with movements of increased velocity) and induced an anxiety‐like phenotype.

Conclusions

Although free‐choice diets negatively impacted on metabolism and anxiety‐like behavior, replacing sucrose with glucose improved insulin sensitivity and may therefore be better for health.
Informing a roadmap for cross‐sectoral collaboration on portion size management as a national strategy to improve population nutrition – a Delphi study
Authors: Barata‐Cavalcanti O. , Ty D. , Novelli W. , Costa S. , Huang T. T.‐K.
Published: January 2019

Background

Addressing food portion sizes is a key untapped opportunity to help tackle obesity. This study sought to inform the agenda of a national movement involving diverse sectors to manage portion sizes in packaged foods, restaurants, cafeterias and prepared foods in grocery stores.

Methods

A Delphi study was conducted with representatives from public health, private‐sector food companies and academia that formed a panel of experts (n = 32). Three iterative rounds of surveys were administered over 3 months. The surveys gathered opinions on psychological mindsets affecting portion size choice, eating habits, portion perception and distortion, passive overconsumption and challenges and advantages of this tool to improve population nutrition. The survey also inquired about visions for a future food environment. After every round, responses were analysed and questions narrowed to reach group consensus on specific items in the subsequent round.

Results

Although many experts fear that portion size interventions might be perceived as paternalistic, 91% of respondents agreed stealth interventions were preferable. Seventy‐three per cent of experts believed that the most impactful portion size intervention was product reformulation while smaller packages were the most effective intervention according to only 28% of experts. The majority of the panel (59%) also believed that creating an artificial stopping point in packages was the best strategy to reduce food consumption. Finally, the study found that one of the most complex aspects of establishing a multi‐sector collaboration for obesity prevention was to ascertain trust in the private sector's ability to balance profit versus social responsibility.[Corrections added on 21 March 2019, after first online publication: The percentage of experts who believed that small packages were the most effective intervention has been changed from “16%” to “28%”.]

Conclusion

This study informs the agenda of a cross‐sectoral, coordinated movement to tackle obesity through a combination of changing social norms, individual behaviours and industry practices around portion size. Although cross‐sectoral collaboration for non‐communicable disease prevention is encouraged by different organizations, strategic efforts to define a common agenda on portion size have been limited thus far. This research highlights important strategies in portion size interventions and steps needed for the success of such a movement, as part of a wider effort across sectors and stakeholders to halt and reverse obesity rates in the USA.
Relations among maternal physical activity during pregnancy and child body composition
Authors: Mudd L. M. , Scheurer J. M. , Pruett M. , Demerath E. W. , Kapur A. , Ramel S. E.
Published: January 2019

Objective

Physical activity (PA) during pregnancy is associated with lower neonatal fat mass, but associations with child body composition are mixed. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between trimester‐specific pregnancy PA and child body composition at 4 years.

Methods

Participants of the Minnesota Infant Nutrition, Neurodevelopment, and Obesity Study were asked to recall participation in any moderate or vigorous PA in the first (T1), second (T2) and third (T3) trimesters at about 5 years postpartum. Child fat mass and fat‐free mass were measured via air displacement plethysmography at 2 weeks, 3 months and 4 years of age. Multivariate linear regression was used for analyses.

Results

Of 51 possible participants, 37 recalled pregnancy PA. Any vigorous PA in T3 was associated with lower child fat mass at 4 years (adjβ = −1.077, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Late pregnancy PA may have lasting benefits for child body composition. Replication of these findings is needed in a larger sample with prospective measures.
Blood transfusion therapy for β‐thalassemia major and hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia: Adequacy, trends, and determinants in Sri Lanka
Authors: Mettananda Sachith , Pathiraja Hashan , Peiris Ravindu , Wickramarathne Nethmi , Bandara Dayananda , de Silva Udaya , Mettananda Chamila , Premawardhena Anuja
Published: January 2019

Background

Regular blood transfusion therapy still remains the cornerstone in the management of β‐thalassemia. Although recommendations are clear for patients with β‐thalassemia major, uniform transfusion guidelines are lacking for patients with hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia. In this study, we aim to describe the adequacy, trends, and determinants of blood transfusion therapy in a large cohort of pediatric patients with β‐thalassemia major and hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia.

Methods/procedure

This cross‐sectional study was performed among all regularly transfused patents with β‐thalassemia aged 2 to 18 years attending three large thalassemia centers in Sri Lanka. Data were collected using an interviewer‐administered questionnaire, perusal of clinical records, and physical examination of patients by trained doctors.

Results

A total of 328 patients (male 47%) were recruited; 83% had β‐thalassemia major, whereas 16% had hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia. Sixty‐one percent of patients had low pretransfusion hemoglobin levels (< 9.0 g/dL) despite receiving high transfusion volumes (> 200 mL/kg/year) by a majority (56%). Median pretransfusion hemoglobin was significantly lower in patients with hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia compared with β‐thalassemia major (P < 0.001); however, there was no difference in requirement for high transfusion volumes over 200 mL/kg/year in both groups (P = 0.14). Hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were more common in hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia and were associated with lower pretransfusion hemoglobin. Transfusion requirements were higher among patients with hepatitis C and in those who are underweight.

Conclusions

Over 60% of regularly transfused patients with β‐thalassemia have low pretransfusion hemoglobin levels despite receiving large transfusion volumes. Patients with hemoglobin E β‐thalassemia are undertransfused and specific recommendations should be developed to guide transfusions in these patients.
Impact of fetal brain ultrasound tutor smartphone application on normal anatomy learning
Authors: Volpe Nicola , Dall'Asta Andrea , Schera Giovanni Battista Luca , Di Pasquo Elvira , Frusca Tiziana , Ghi Tullio
Published: January 2019

Objective

The “Fetal Brain Tutor 4us” (FBTApp) is a recently developed application for interactive multiplanar navigation through the normal fetal brain. The purpose of this work was to assess its impact on normal anatomy learning.

Methods

A multiple‐choice quiz (MCQ) was administered to first‐year resident doctors in Obstetrics and Gynecology in two separate sessions, before and 2 weeks after downloading the FBTApp. For each MCQ, the junior trainee was asked to use one out of five items to label a specific cerebral structure on an ultrasound image of a normal midtrimester fetal brain. Six sonographic images of the fetal brain on each of the three scanning planes (axial, sagittal, and coronal) were shown to the participants at either session. The results of the two sessions were analysed and compared.

Results

Overall, 216 questions were administered to the trainees in the 2‐week study, 108 before and 108 after the use of the FBTApp. From the first to the second sessions, a significant increase of correct answers was noted (from 47/108 or 43% to 77/108 or 71%, P < 0.01). Particularly, a better improvement was obtained in the correct labelling of cerebral structures on the nonaxial (from 32% to 67%, +35%) vs axial (from 67% to 81%, +14%) view planes of the brain (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The use of FBTApp seems capable to improve the knowledge of the normal fetal brain anatomy in subjects naive to dedicated prenatal ultrasound. This improvement seems greater on nonaxial planes.
Upscaling single unit monomer insertion to synthesize discrete oligomers
Authors: Huang Zixuan , Corrigan Nathaniel , Lin Shiyang , Boyer Cyrille , Xu Jiangtao
Published: January 2019

As one of the emerging techniques for preparing discrete oligomers, the photo‐RAFT single unit monomer insertion (SUMI) process has shown its uniqueness and superiority in the control of both monomer sequence and stereochemistry. However, current precision polymer synthesis techniques are still burdened by the scalability challenges, such as low reaction yields, small product quantities, and long production times. Herein, we successfully established a practical protocol to address scalability problems in the photo‐RAFT SUMI processes. A series of discrete oligomers containing up to five monomer units were synthesized in batch and flow reactors by sequential and alternating SUMI of two monomers into a trithiocarbonate RAFT agent under mild reaction conditions and purified by automated flash chromatography. This protocol offers the process with large quantity (grams scale), excellent isolated yields (82%–95% for each step and 59% for five iterations), and short production time (several days for a pentamer). © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1947–1955
Effectiveness of interventions to improve cancer treatment and follow‐up care in socially disadvantaged groups
Authors: Ruiz‐Pérez Isabel , Rodríguez‐Gómez Marina , Pastor‐Moreno Guadalupe , Escribá‐Agüir Vicenta , Petrova Dafina
Published: January 2019

Objective

To identify and characterize the interventions that aimed to improve cancer treatment and follow‐up care in socially disadvantaged groups. To summarize the state of the art for clinicians and researchers.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials and quasi‐experimental studies with a control group (usual care or enhanced usual care) conducted in Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) member countries and published until 2016.

Results

Thirty‐one interventions were identified, the majority of which were conducted in the United States in patients with breast cancer. Most interventions aimed to decrease social inequalities based on ethnicity/race and/or socioeconomic level, with fewer interventions targeting inequalities based on geographical area. The most frequently assessed outcomes were quality of life (n = 20) and psychosocial factors (n = 20), followed by treatment adherence or satisfaction (n = 12,), knowledge (n = 11), pain management (n = 10), and lifestyle habits (n = 3).

Conclusions

The impact of interventions designed to improve cancer treatment and follow‐up care in socially disadvantages groups is multifactorial. Multicomponent‐intervention approaches and cultural adaptations are common, and their effectiveness should be evaluated in the populations of interest. More interventions are needed from outside the Unite States and in patients with cancers other than breast cancer, targeting gender or geographical inequalities and addressing key outcomes such as treatment adherence or symptom management.