bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Nanofibrous PVA/Alginate‐Sulfate Substrates for Growth Factor Delivery
Authors: Mohammadi Sajjad , Ramakrishna Seeram , Laurent Sophie , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali , Semnani Dariush , Sadeghi Davoud , Bonakdar Shahin , Akbari Mohsen
Published: November 2018

Providing affinity sites on alginate (ALG) matrix enables specific binding of growth factors to the polymer backbone and allows their release in a controlled fashion. In this study, we used a blend of alginate sulfate (ALG‐S) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to fabricate electrospun scaffolds capable of delivering a heparin‐like growth factor, transforming growth factor‐beta1 (TGF‐β1). The alginate was sulfated with different degrees of sulfation (DS, from 0.8, 3.4 to 12.4%) by a simple process. The success of sulfation was determined by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), elemental analysis, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy and staining with dimethylmethylene blue. The physical‐mechanical properties of nanofibrous mats were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), tensile strength and mass loss analysis. Additionally, the release kinetics of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) from PVA/ALG‐S and PVA/ALG scaffolds were compared. The results showed that the binding and entrapment of TGF‐β1 to the nanofibrous scaffolds are improved by the addition of sulfate group to alginate. In conclusion, our results support that nanofibrous scaffold based on PVA/ALG‐S can deliver growth factors in tissue engineering application. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 403–413, 2019.
Mechanical and biological evaluation of a hydroxyapatite‐reinforced scaffold for bone regeneration
Authors: Patel Pushpendra P. , Buckley Christian , Taylor Brittany L. , Sahyoun Christine C. , Patel Samarth D. , Mont Ashley J. , Mai Linh , Patel Swati , Freeman Joseph W.
Published: November 2018

With over 500,000 bone grafting procedures performed annually in the United States, the advancement of bone regeneration technology is at the forefront of medical research. Many tissue‐engineered approaches have been explored to develop a viable synthetic bone graft substitute, but a major challenge is achieving a load‐bearing graft that appropriately mimics the mechanical properties of native bone. In this study, sintered hydroxyapatite (HAp) was used to structurally reinforce a scaffold and yield mechanical properties comparable to native bone. HAp was packed into a cylindrical framework and processed under varying conditions to maximize its mechanical properties. The resulting HAp columns were further tested in a 6‐week degradation study to determine their physical and mechanical response. The cellular response of sintered HAp was determined using a murine preosteoblast cell line, MC3T3‐E1. Cell viability and morphology were studied over a one‐week period and MC3T3‐E1 differentiation was determined by measuring the alkaline phosphatase levels. Finite element analysis was used to determine the columns' geometric configuration and arrangement within our previously developed composite bone scaffold. It was determined that incorporating four cylindrical HAp columns, fabricated under 44 MPa of pressure and sintered at 1200°C for 5 hr, led to load‐bearing properties that match the yield strength of native whole bone. These preliminary results indicate that the incorporation of a mechanically enhanced HAp structural support system is a promising step toward developing one of the first load‐bearing bone scaffolds that can also support cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 732–741, 2019.
Assessment of rapid diagnostic tests and fourth‐generation Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assays in the screening of Human Immunodeficiency and Hepatitis B virus infections among first‐time blood donors in Libreville (Gabon)
Authors: Eko Mba Jean Marie , Bisseye Cyrille , Mombo Landry Erik , Ntsame Ndong Jophrette Mireille , Mbina Ekayeng Schella Carlaye , Bengone Calixte , M’batchi Bertrand , Nagalo Bolni Marius
Published: November 2018

Background

Blood transfusion is a pathway for the transmission of blood‐borne pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) from donors to recipients in most countries in sub‐Saharan Africa, including Gabon. The study aimed to compare the performance of four rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs: Alere DETERMINE, BIOSYNEX Exacto Pro HIV, MEDIFF HIV 1&2, and BIOSYNEX IMMUNOQUICK HBsAg) with results of 4th‐generation immunoenzymatic assays COBAS 6000 e601 and EVOLIS BioRad for the detection of HIV and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in blood donors in Libreville, Gabon.

Methods

Reactive and nonreactive blood samples for HIV and HBsAg were selected using fourth‐generation ELISA COBAS 6000 e601 and EVOLIS BioRad. The sensitivities of RDTs were calculated using Epi Info version 6.04dfr (CDC, Atlanta, USA).

Results

Sensitivities for the detection of HIV in blood donors were 90.9% for Alere DETERMINE, 81.8% for BIOSYNEX Exacto Pro HIV, and 81.8% for MEDIFF HIV 1&2 Serum/sang Total Cassette compared with COBAS 6000 e601. The sensitivity of Alere DETERMINE compared to the semi‐automated ELISA Bio‐Rad for HIV detection was 65.6%. The sensitivity of BIOSYNEX IMMUNOQUICK HBsAg compared to ELISA tests for the detection of HBsAg was 78.0%. The specificity of all RDTs for the detection of HIV and HBsAg was 100%.

Conclusion

Alere DETERMINE HIV‐1/2, MEDIFF HIV 1&2 Serum/sang Total Cassette, BIOSYNEX Exacto Pro HIV, and BIOSYNEX IMMUNOQUICK HBsAg are not recommended for determining whether donors qualify to donate blood because of their low sensitivity for the detection of HIV antibodies and HBsAg in blood donors in Gabon.
Association of the study between LncRNA‐H19 gene polymorphisms with the risk of breast cancer
Authors: Abdollahzadeh Safa , Ghorbian Saeid
Published: November 2018

Background

The H19 is a maternally expressed imprinted gene transcribing a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), which has previously been reported to be involved in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between two lncRNA‐H19 (rs3741219 T>C and rs217727 C>T) gene polymorphisms with the risk of breast cancer (BC).

Methods

In a case‐control investigation, we evaluated 150 BC patients and 100 cancer‐free subjects in East Azerbaijan Province of Iran. To assess two gene polymorphisms, the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method was used.

Results

The genotype frequencies of two lncRNA‐H19 (rs217727 C>T and rs3741219 T>C) gene polymorphisms TT + TC/CC and CC + CT/TT have not shown a statistically significant association with the risk of BC (P = 0.065; OR = 0.967; 95% CI, 0.938‐0.996) and (P = 0.510; OR = 1.583; 95% CI, 0.399‐6.726), respectively. In addition, our findings revealed a significant differences in allele frequencies in lncRNA‐H19 rs217727 C>T polymorphism between groups (P = 0.033; OR = 1.985; 95% CI, 1.048‐3.761).

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that rs217727 C>T polymorphism may be involved in the pathogenesis of BC, whereas rs3741219 T>C variation may not be involved in the genetic background of BC in Iranian.
Possessions and Self in the Identity Work of Survivors of Domestic Violence
Authors: FitzPatrick Mary , Elphingston‐Jolly Bronwyn , Friend Lorraine , Payne Penny
Published: November 2018

Domestic violence has serious consequences for survivors, including severe effects on psychological well‐being and identity. This article reveals the previously hidden possession experiences and identity work of domestic violence survivors. Using a novel visual research method that features material objects as visual stimuli to elicit data, we found possessions were critical in the complex identity work undertaken by survivors. Emergent themes detailing the role of possessions in coping with ongoing self‐threats by an intimate partner provide empirical support for the conceptualization of diametrically opposed selves, the Prescribed Self and Agentic Self. These opposite and compartmentalized selves enabled survivors to cope with extreme disintegration and destabilization of self by the abuser. As well as the conceptual and methodological contributions we make to the possessions‐self literature in consumer research and psychology, this research is valuable for designing social service programs to help survivors cope with the effects of domestic violence on identity.
Hepatocellular carcinoma in otherwise sonographically normal liver
Authors: Naganuma Hiroko , Ishida Hideaki , Ogawa Masahiro , Sato Tutomu , Sageshima Masato , Suzuki Katunori , Ohyama Yoko
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on normal liver is very rare. The goal of this study was to determine the clinical manifestations and the role of ultrasonography (US) in the diagnosis of HCC arising in normal liver.

Methods

The clinical data and US findings in 12 cases of surgically resected HCC in normal liver were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The patients were asymptomatic, had no hepatocarcinogenic factor, and hepatic function tests were almost normal in most cases. HCCs were large, encapsulated, and solitary, and there were predominantly well‐differentiated or moderately differentiated in most cases. US showed a hypoechoic rim and lateral shadowing, suggestive of peritumoral capsule formation, and on contrast‐enhanced US (CEUS), the tumor was hyperenhanced in arterial phase and washed out in postvascular phase, revealing typical HCC findings.

Conclusions

US raises suspicion of HCC by showing lateral shadowing on grayscale ultrasound and hypervascularity on CEUS of the lesion.
Synthesis of Novel Thiazolidin‐4‐ones and Thiazinan‐4‐ones Analogous to Rosiglitazone
Authors: das Neves Adriana M. , Campos José C. , Gouvêa Daniela P. , Berwaldt Gabriele A. , Goulart Taís B. , Avila Cinara T. , Machado Pablo , Zimmer Geórgia C. , Cunico Wilson
Published: November 2018

This work reports the synthesis of thiazolidin‐4‐ones and thiazinan‐4‐ones analogous to rosiglitazone, a potent antidiabetic drug. The desired compounds were synthesized with moderate to good yields by one‐pot reactions between different primary amines, mercaptoacetic or mercaptopropionic acids, and the 4‐(2‐(methyl(pyridin‐2‐yl)amino)ethoxy)benzaldehyde. The cyclocondensation reactions were carried out for 20 h, and all the products were characterized by 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and one example by X‐ray diffraction.
Cost comparison of treatment for oropharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Tam Kenric , Orosco Ryan K. , Dimitrios Colevas A. , Bedi Nikita , Starmer Heather M. , Beadle Beth M. , Holsinger F. Christopher
Published: November 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Based on current guidelines, surgical and nonsurgical therapies are viable frontline treatment for patients with locoregional oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC). We sought to compare financial parameters between chemoradiation and transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in this patient population.

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Methods

In this study we identified patients with selected American Joint Committee on Cancer 7th Edition stage II to IVa OPC treated with TORS between January 2013 and December 2014. Fifteen patients who underwent TORS were stage matched with 15 patients treated with chemoradiation. Total charges and cost data for each patient were analyzed at 4‐month and 1‐year time points; functional and oncologic outcomes were assessed.

Results

There were no significant differences in functional and oncologic outcomes. Patients undergoing TORS had a longer inpatient hospital stay, and most required a nasogastric tube for an average of 3.5 days. There were no local or regional recurrences. Across all time points, the TORS group had lower charges and costs compared to the chemoradiation group, with 14% lower costs at 1 year. In the chemoradiation group, nearly two‐thirds of costs came from radiation therapy and pharmacy expenses. Chemotherapy accounted for most pharmacy costs. The costs of operating the surgical robot accounted for a about half of surgical costs.

Conclusions

Selected patients with stage II to IVa oropharyngeal carcinoma treated with TORS may incur lower costs than those treated nonsurgically. With rising healthcare spending, the financial impact of treatment might be considered for those patients eligible for treatment regimens with comparable functional and oncologic outcomes.

Level of Evidence

3b

Laryngoscope, 129:1604–1609, 2019
A Thermally Robust La3Si6N11:Ce‐in‐Glass Film for High‐Brightness Blue‐Laser‐Driven Solid State Lighting
Authors: You Shihai , Li Shuxing , Zheng Peng , Zhou Tianliang , Wang Le , Liu Lihong , Horisaki Naoto , Xu Fangfang , Xie Rong‐Jun
Published: November 2018

Color converter is a key luminescent material in the laser‐driven solid state lighting, which must bear high‐density excitation and serious thermal attack from the incident laser. Here, a thermally robust yellow‐emitting La3Si6N11:Ce‐in‐glass (LSN:Ce‐PiG) film for laser lighting is reported by co‐firing the LSN:Ce and glass powders on a thermally conductive sapphire substrate. No detectable interfacial reaction occurs between the LSN:Ce particle and glass matrix, enabling the film to fully inherit the original thermal robustness and high quantum efficiency. The optical performance of LSN:Ce‐PiG‐converted white laser light has been effectively optimized by changing the phosphor‐to‐glass (PtG) ratio and the film thickness. The highest light conversion efficiency is respectively achieved at PtG = 2:3 and the thickness of 70 µm, and the saturation threshold is found to decrease with either a higher PtG ratio or a thicker film. The optimized LSN:Ce‐PiG film (P2G3‐50) can withstand a maximum laser power density of 12.91 W mm−2 and produce a cool white light with a high luminous flux of 1076 lm (luminance of 773 Mcd m−2), a luminous efficiency of 166.05 lm W−1, a color rendering index of 70. These results make the LSN:Ce‐PiG film a considerably promising color converter for laser lighting.
Nanofibers for Biomedical and Healthcare Applications
Authors: Rasouli Rahimeh , Barhoum Ahmed , Bechelany Mikhael , Dufresne Alain
Published: November 2018

Unique features of nanofibers provide enormous potential in the field of biomedical and healthcare applications. Many studies have proven the extreme potential of nanofibers in front of current challenges in the medical and healthcare field. This review highlights the nanofiber technologies, unique properties, fabrication techniques (i.e., physical, chemical, and biological methods), and emerging applications in biomedical and healthcare fields. It summarizes the recent researches on nanofibers for drug delivery systems and controlled drug release, tissue‐engineered scaffolds, dressings for wound healing, biosensors, biomedical devices, medical implants, skin care, as well as air, water, and blood purification systems. Attention is given to different types of fibers (e.g., mesoporous, hollow, core‐shell nanofibers) fabricated from various materials and their potential biomedical applications.
Modification of Epoxy Resin with a Phosphorus, Nitrogen, and Fluorine Containing Polymer to Improve the Flame Retardant and Hydrophobic Properties
Authors: Chen Ting , Peng Chaohua , Liu Cheng , Yuan Conghui , Hong Jing , Chen Guorong , Xu Yiting , Dai Lizong
Published: November 2018

Targeting high‐effective modification of flame retardant epoxy resin, elements including phosphorus, nitrogen, and fluorine are simultaneously incorporated into a polymer named as PFNP. A certain amount of amino groups are preserved on PFNP chains to participate in the curing of epoxy resin. The reactive groups and segments contain 9,10‐dihydro‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) endowed PFNP with good compatibility in epoxy resin. The proper addition of PFNP improves the mechanical property and Tg values of epoxy resins. The limiting oxygen index values of EP/PFNP increases while the peak heat release rate, heat release capacity, and total heat release values reduce after introduction of PFNP. Samples with contents of PFNP higher than 5 wt% reach UL‐94 V‐0 rating without dripping. Notably, the migration effect of trifluoromethyl (CF3) groups not only increases the water contact angles, but also reduces the dielectric constants of epoxy resins.
pH and Thermo Dual‐Responsive Fluorescent Hydrogel Actuator
Authors: Wu Bao‐Yi , Le Xiao‐Xia , Jian Yu‐Kun , Lu Wei , Yang Zhen‐Yu , Zheng Zhi‐Kun , Théato Patrick , Zhang Jia‐Wei , Zhang Afang , Chen Tao
Published: November 2018

As one of the most important smart materials, fluorescent hydrogel actuators can produce both color and shape changes under external stimuli. In the present work, an effective approach to develop a novel fluorescent hydrogel actuator with pH and thermo dual responsiveness is proposed. Through incorporating pH‐responsive perylene tetracarboxylic acid (PTCA), which is a typical fluorescent moiety with aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) effect, into an anisotropic poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–polyacrylamide (PNIPAm‐PAAm) structure, the obtained hydrogel exhibits stable thermoresponsive shape deformation and switchable fluorescence performance upon a pH trigger. Therefore, fluorescence‐quenching‐based and actuation‐based information can be revealed when exposed to UV light and immersed into warm water, respectively. Moreover, the thermoresponsive actuating behavior can be applied to further hide the fluorescence‐quenching‐based images. The present work may provide new insights into the design and preparation of novel stimuli‐responsive hydrogel actuators.
Diverse serotonin actions of vilazodone reduce l‐3,4‐dihidroxyphenylalanine–induced dyskinesia in hemi‐parkinsonian rats
Authors: Meadows Samantha M. , Conti Melissa M. , Gross Libby , Chambers Nicole E. , Avnor Yarden , Ostock Corinne Y. , Lanza Kathryn , Bishop Christopher
Published: November 2018

Background: The serotonergic system is a well‐established modulator of l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia. To date, targeting serotonin transporters or serotonin receptor subtype 1A (5‐HT1A) reduces l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia in animal models; however, these strategies have failed to translate clinically. Ideally, a compound acting at both known antidyskinetic sites could optimize serotonin‐mediated approaches. Vilazodone is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and a partial 5‐HT1A agonist approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, situating Vilazodone in a unique position to reduce l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia without compromising l‐dopa‐mediated motor improvements.

Objectives: The goal of the present study was to characterize Vilazodone's effects on l‐dopa‐induced behaviors, neurochemistry and gene expression in unilateral 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned hemi‐parkinsonian rats.

Methods: In experiments 1 and 2, l‐dopa‐naïve and l‐dopa‐primed animals were coadministered Vilazodone and l‐dopa daily for 3 weeks to model subchronic use, and behavioral, neurochemical, and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression changes were measured. In experiment 3, dyskinetic behavior was assessed following 5‐HT1A or serotonin receptor subtype 1B blockade prior to Vilazodone–l‐dopa coadministration.

Results: Vilazodone significantly suppressed developing and established l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia without compromising the promotor effects of l‐dopa therapy. In the dopamine‐depleted striatum, Vilazodone–l‐dopa cotreatment increased dopamine content, suggesting a normalization of dopamine kinetics in dyskinetic brain, and reduced l‐dopa‐induced c‐Fos and preprodynorphin mRNA overexpression, indicative of attenuated dopamine D1 receptor‐mediated direct pathway overactivity. Only 5‐HT1A antagonism partially attenuated Vilazodone's antidyskinetic efficacy, suggesting both serotonin transporter‐dependent effects and 5‐HT1A receptors in Vilazodone's actions.

Conclusions: Our findings show Vilazodone has a serotonin‐dependent effect on rodent l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia and implicate the potential for repositioning Vilazodone against l‐dopa‐induced dyskinesia development and expression in Parkinson's disease patients. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Intact automatic motor inhibition in patients with tourette syndrome
Authors: Stenner Max‐Philipp , Baumgaertel Charlotte , Heinze Hans‐Jochen , Ganos Christos , Müller‐Vahl Kirsten R.
Published: November 2018

Background: Behavioral disinhibition has been proposed as a key mechanism in Tourette syndrome. Yet classic inhibition tasks have yielded inconsistent results, likely reflecting interference by strategies compensating for tic release.

Methods: We examined a core inhibitory function that is immune to such interference because it suppresses movements automatically. We measured automatic motor inhibition behaviorally in 21 adults with Tourette syndrome and 21 healthy controls via the negative compatibility effect. When a motor response is activated, for example, by a subliminal prime stimulus, but execution is delayed, activation turns into inhibition, increasing reaction time and error. Diminished automatic inhibition could underlie tic release.

Results: Both controls and patients showed strong automatic motor inhibition with no significant group difference. Bayesian statistics, allowing inference on the absence of effects, favored intact inhibition in patients. Our study was well powered.

Conclusions: Automatic motor inhibition in Tourette syndrome is neither impaired nor harnessed by compensation. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Autosomal dominant Marfan syndrome caused by a previously reported recessive FBN1 variant
Authors: Overwater Eline , Efrat Rifka , Barge‐Schaapveld Daniela Q. C. M. , Lakeman Phillis , Weiss Marjan M. , Maugeri Alessandra , van Tintelen J. Peter , Houweling Arjan C.
Published: November 2018

Background

Pathogenic variants in FBN1 cause autosomal dominant Marfan syndrome but can also be found in patients presenting with apparently isolated features of Marfan syndrome. Moreover, several families with autosomal recessive Marfan syndrome caused by pathogenic variants in FBN1 have been described. The aim of this report was to underline the clinical variability that can be associated with the pathogenic variant c.1453C>T, p.(Arg485Cys) in FBN1.

Methods

We provide the clinical details of two autosomal dominant families with this specific FBN1 variant, which was previously associated with autosomal recessive Marfan syndrome.

Results

Clinical data of 14 individuals carrying this variant from these two families were collected retrospectively. In both families, the diagnosis of autosomal dominant Marfan syndrome was established based on the characteristics of the variant and the phenotype which includes aortic aneurysms and dissections. Of interest, in one of the families, multiple relatives were diagnosed with early onset abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, FBN1 variant c.1453C>T, p.(Arg485Cys) is a pathogenic variant that can cause autosomal dominant Marfan syndrome characterized by a high degree of clinical variability and apparently isolated early onset familial abdominal aortic aneurysms.
A computational procedure on higher‐dimensional nilsolitons
Authors: Kadioglu Hulya
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we develop algorithmic approach to classify nilsoliton metrics on dimension 8. This approach includes finding eigenvalue type of the nilsoliton derivation, the nullity type, the index of the algebra. It can be considered as a continuation of our papers in Abstract and Applied analysis, volume 2013, 1 to 7, (2013), with article ID 871930, and in Journal of Symbolic Computation 50 (2013), 350 ‐ 373. In our previous work, we classified only ordered type, nilsoliton metric Lie algebras ie, the algebras with the derivation type (1  <  2  <  3…  <  n) in dimension 8 and 9. Here, we consider more general case. We consider such metrics with simple derivations on an indecomposable nilpotent Lie algebra. In one of our previous study, we have already classified nilsoliton metric Lie algebras with nonsingular Gram matrix in dimension 8 in Journal of Symbolic Computation, vol: 50, 350 ‐ 373, 2013. Here, we focus on the metrics with singular Gram matrix. We also develop faster algorithm in classifying such metrics.
A computational method for large‐scale differential symmetric Stein equation
Authors: Güldoğan Dericioğlu Yaprak , Kurulay Muhammet
Published: November 2018

We propose a numerical method for solving large‐scale differential symmetric Stein equations having low‐rank right constant term. Our approach is based on projection the given problem onto a Krylov subspace then solving the low dimensional matrix problem by using an integration method, and the original problem solution is built by using obtained low‐rank approximate solution. Using the extended block Arnoldi process and backward differentiation formula (BDF), we give statements of the approximate solution and corresponding residual. Some numerical results are given to show the efficiency of the proposed method.
Numerical results for the Klein‐Gordon equation in de Sitter spacetime
Authors: Selvitopi Harun , Yazıcı Muhammet
Published: November 2018

We consider the initial value problem for the Klein‐Gordon equation in de Sitter spacetime. We use the central difference scheme on the temporal discretization. We also discretize the spatial variable using the finite element method with implicit and the Crank‐Nicolson schemes for the numerical solution of the initial value problem. In order to show the accuracy for the results of the solutions, we also examine the finite difference methods. We observe that the numerical results obtained by using these methods are compatible.
Assessment of cardiac‐driven liver movements with filtered harmonic phase image representation, optical flow quantification, and motion amplification
Authors: Hahn Stephan , Absil Julie , Debeir Olivier , Metens Thierry
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To characterize cardiac‐driven liver movements using a harmonic phase image representation (HARP) with an optical flow quantification and motion amplification method. The method was applied to define the cardiac trigger delay providing minimal signal losses in liver DWI images.

Methods

The 16‐s breath‐hold balanced‐SSFP time resolved 20 images/s were acquired at 3T in coronal and sagittal orientations. A peripheral pulse unit signal was recorded. Cardiac‐triggered DWI images were acquired after different peripheral pulse unit delays. A steerable pyramid decomposition with multiple orientations and spatial frequencies was applied. The liver motion field‐map was derived from temporal variations of the HARP representation filtered around the cardiac frequency. Liver displacements were quantified with an optical flow method; moreover the right liver motion was amplified.

Results

The largest displacements were observed in the left liver (feet‐head:3.70 ± 1.06 mm; anterior–posterior: 2.35 ± 0.51 mm). Displacements were statistically significantly weaker in the middle right liver (0.47 ± 0.11 mm; P = 0.0156). The average error was 0.013 ± 0.022 mm (coronal plane) and 0.021 ± 0.041 mm (sagittal plane). The velocity field demonstrated opposing movements of the right liver extremities during the cardiac cycle. DWI signal loss was minimized in regions and instants of smallest amplitude of both velocity and velocity gradient.

Conclusion

Cardiac‐driven liver movements were quantified with combined cardiac frequency‐filtered HARP and optical flow methods. A motion phase opposition between right liver extremities was demonstrated. Displacement amplitude and velocity were larger in the left liver especially along the vertical direction. Motion amplification visually emphasized cardiac‐driven right liver displacements. The optimal cardiac timing minimizing signal loss in liver DWI images was derived.
Selective Ablation of Tumorigenic Cells Following Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Neural Stem/Progenitor Cell Transplantation in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Kojima Kota , Miyoshi Hiroyuki , Nagoshi Narihito , Kohyama Jun , Itakura Go , Kawabata Soya , Ozaki Masahiro , Iida Tsuyoshi , Sugai Keiko , Ito Shuhei , Fukuzawa Ryuji , Yasutake Kaori , Renault-Mihara Francois , Shibata Shinsuke , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Okano Hideyuki
Published: November 2018

Tumorigenesis is an important problem that needs to be addressed in the field of human stem/progenitor cell transplantation for the treatment of subacute spinal cord injury (SCI). When certain “tumorigenic” cell lines are transplanted into the spinal cord of SCI mice model, there is initial improvement of motor function, followed by abrupt deterioration secondary to the effect of tumor growth. A significant proportion of the transplanted cells remains undifferentiated after transplantation and is thought to increase the risk of tumorigenesis. In this study, using lentiviral vectors, we introduced the herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSVtk) gene into a human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem/progenitor cell (hiPSC-NS/PC) line that is known to undergo tumorigenic transformation. Such approach enables selective ablation of the immature proliferating cells and thereby prevents subsequent tumor formation. In vitro, the HSVtk system successfully ablated the immature proliferative neural cells while preserving mature postmitotic neuronal cells. Similar results were observed in vivo following transplantation into the injured spinal cords of immune-deficient (nonobese diabetic–severe combined immune-deficient) mice. Ablation of the proliferating cells exerted a protective effect on the motor function which was regained after transplantation, simultaneously defending the spinal cord from the harmful tumor growth. These results suggest a potentially promising role of suicide genes in opposing tumorigenesis during stem cell therapy. This system allows both preventing and treating tumorigenesis following hiPSC-NS/PC transplantation without sacrificing the improved motor function. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:260&270
31.1: Invited Paper: Monochromatic Active Matrix Micro‐LED Micro‐Displays with >5,000 dpi Pixel Density Fabricated using Monolithic Hybrid Integration Process
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ou Fang , Chong Wing Cheung , Chen Yijing , Zhu Yuankun , Li Qiming
Published: November 2018

Wafer‐scale epi‐transfer process has been developed for monolithic hybrid integration of Si‐based IC and micro‐LED arrays. Monochromatic red, green, and blue Active‐Matrix micro‐LED (AMmLED) micro‐displays with a resolution of 5000+ PPI were demonstrated for the first time by JBD using this wafer‐scale monolithic hybrid integration technology, which shows feasibility and advantages for low cost mass productions. The brightness of the demonstrated AMμLED micro‐display (green) well exceeds 5x105cd/m2, representing an improvement of over 500‐times compared to the existing self‐emissive micro‐displays. The ultra‐high pixel resolution, high brightness and contrast ratio, low power consumption, and small footprint makes AMμLED micro‐displays highly desirable for various wearable electronics and AR applications.
Organic Ionic Plastic Crystal‐polymer Solid Electrolytes with High Ionic Conductivity and Mechanical Ability for Solid‐state Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Kaihua , Zhang Zhengxi , Liao Zhu , Yang Li , Hirano Shin‐ichi
Published: November 2018

Solid electrolytes (SEs) would be an ideal solution to safety concerns, miniaturization and increase of energy density; however, SEs are difficult to have high ionic conductivity and mechanical properties simultaneously. In this work, we firstly synthesize a novel class of ammonium‐based organic ionic plastic crystals (OIPCs), then prepare SE system by blending synthesized OIPC with poly(vinylidenefluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF‐HFP)) and lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI). Such SEs overcome most of the limitations, with attractive ionic conductivity and lithium ion transference number, excellent mechanical properties, high electrochemical stability, as well as satisfactory interfacial stability with lithium metal. In particular, Li/LiFePO4 cells employing as‐prepared SE exhibit high discharge capacity, favorable cycling and rate performance at 30 °C, which is comparable to those using liquid electrolytes. The reported SE system, combined with excellent overall performance, is expected to have great potential for application in solid‐state lithium ion batteries.
Betaine + (Glycerol or Ethylene Glycol or Propylene Glycol) Deep Eutectic Solvents for Extractive Purification of Gasoline
Authors: Kučan Kristina Zagajski , Perković Marijana , Cmrk Karlo , Načinović Dominik , Rogošić Marko
Published: November 2018

Deep eutectic solvents (DES), a class of ′green′ solvents, are being tested for extractive desulfurization, denitrification and dearomatization of fuels. Here, three DESs were prepared by combining betaine (B) with glycerol (Gly), ethylene glycol (EG) or propylene glycol (PG) in the molar ratios of 1:3, 1:3 and 1:3.5, respectively. The DESs were used for the removal of thiophene, pyridine and toluene from a 6‐component model gasoline and for the removal of sulfur and nitrogen compounds from a real fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) gasoline. Physical properties of the prepared DESs – density, viscosity, refractive index, specific conductance, thermal conductivity, temperature diffusivity and heat capacity were determined, too. All tested DESs exhibit higher potential for denitrification of model fuel with respect to desulfurization and dearomatization. B‐PG 1:3.5 worked best in one‐stage denitrification of both model gasoline (∼80%) and real FCC gasoline (∼36%). The reuse of solvent without loss in extraction efficiency in four extraction stages was successfully achieved for all three DESs by evaporation purification of DES between the stages.
Binder‐Free ZnO Cathode synthesized via ALD by Direct Growth of Hierarchical ZnO Nanostructure on Current Collector for High‐Performance Rechargeable Aluminium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Pal Dipayan , Mathur Aakash , Singh Ajaib , Pakhira Srimanta , Singh Rinki , Chattopadhyay Sudeshna
Published: November 2018

Nanoscale ZnO, directly grown on current collector through ALD, shows high electrochemical performance as a binder‐free cathode for rechargeable Al‐ion batteries (AIBs). Al coin cell fabricated using binder‐free ALD grown ZnO cathode (ZnO‐ALD‐E) manifests an initial discharge capacity of 2563 mAh g‐1, and remains at 245 mAh g‐1 at a current rate of 400 mA g‐1 after 50 cycles with almost 95% Coulombic efficiency. Distinct and consistent plateaus in discharge/charge curves reveal the Al‐ion insertion/extraction process and electrochemical stability of the battery. The delivered discharge capacity of the battery with ZnO‐ALD‐E cathode is significantly higher (1000%) than that of batteries fabricated using a conventional ZnO cathode composed of ZnO powder (nanoparticles or bulk) and binder with conductive carbon. Ex‐situ XRD and Photoluminescence spectroscopy in different discharge/charge states of Al/ZnO‐ALD‐E battery reveal the structural information of ZnO‐ALD‐E, upon Al‐ion intercalation/deintercalation. Such remarkable electrochemical performance is attributed to the binder‐free, well‐defined textured nanostructures of ALD grown ZnO cathode with c‐axis orientation along the surface normal, facilitating good electrical contact and enhanced pathways for electron/ion transfer/transport kinetics. First principle based DFT calculations explain the Al‐ion intercalation phenomena in the framework of c‐axis oriented ZnO. The proposed concept provides a strategy for transitioning to next‐generation AIBs with a binder‐free cathode.
Enantioselective Synthesis of (R)‐Antofine and (R)‐Cryptopleurine
Authors: Ansari Anas , Ramapanicker Ramesh
Published: November 2018

Enantioselective syntheses of (R)‐antofine and (R)‐cryptopleurine starting from a 3‐phenanthrenylpropanal derivative are reported. Asymmetric α‐amination of this aldehyde is carried out in the presence of D‐proline, which constitutes the key step in the syntheses and resulted in the formation of the new stereogenic center with very high enantioselectivity (94% ee). The indolizidine and quinolizidine moieties in the target molecules are formed through Pictet‐Spengler reaction. The current method is shorter and high yielding in comparison with a similar strategy used for the synthesis of these molecules using proline‐catalyzed α‐hydroxylation of the same aldehyde.
The effect of citrus ginger aroma on heart rate and salivary cortisol level during sleep at home
Authors: Jiang Fang , Kobayashi Takemi , Ichihashi Takurou , Ito Kanetoshi , Nomura Shusaku
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of odor on the heart rate (HR) and salivary cortisol levels during sleep at home. Twenty male students (aged 20.9 ± 0.74 years) participated in the study and were exposed to three different odorants (apple, cedar wood, and citrus ginger) or a scentless control sample each night in their home environment in a counterbalanced order. In this within‐subjects study design, all subjects were instructed to sleep at home for 6 h, from 00:00 to 06:00, and HR was measured using a wristwatch‐type HR monitor. Saliva samples were obtained before sleep and after awakening. While subjective sleep quality at awakening did not differ between conditions, tension and anxiety, as assessed by the Profile of Mood State Questionnaire, significantly decreased from the night before sleep to the next morning on which citrus ginger exposure was provided (p < 0.01). Moreover, HR during sleep and after awakening, as well as cortisol secretion after awakening, was significantly higher in the citrus ginger condition (p < 0.01–0.05). Hence, the inhalation of citrus ginger aroma during sleep may enhance sympathetic nervous and endocrine system activity while alleviating psychological tension and anxiety. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Penis and scrotum transplantation: a paradigm for penile deficiency?
Authors: Hawksworth Dorota J , Bivalacqua Trinity J
Published: November 2018

Complete loss of the penis is a devastating occurrence and, unfortunately, as a result of improvised explosive devices in military conflicts, added to accidents and infections, is not as rare as one would hope. In this article the authors report the amazing work of penis transplant teams around the world and, in particular, their work in Baltimore.
Building Literacy Environments to Motivate African American Boys to Read
Authors: Thomas Katina L.
Published: November 2018

The early reading gap among diverse subgroups of students in schools has made teachers conscious of how students’ culture affects their perceptions of reading and the literacy materials now being used in classrooms. The reported racial and gender gap among elementary literacy readers leaves African American boys on the fringes of literacy growth and development. Therefore, teachers are responsible for implementing strategies to build an emergent and early literacy classroom that motivates all boys of color to enjoy reading at an early age while shining a positive spotlight on all student backgrounds. Adopting a culturally responsive approach to literacy, increasing student responsibility in the literacy selection process, and supplying culturally relevant texts that positively influence student self‐perception will foster motivation for male students of color who are marginalized during the literacy‐learning process.
From Spirituality to Responsible Leadership: Ignatian Discernment and Theory-U
Authors: Nullens Patrick
Published: November 2018

In its desire to build a bridge between self-awareness and morally responsible leadership, this chapter seeks to contribute to the theory of authentic leadership. The central thesis of this chapter is that Ignatian spiritual discernment is a valuable resource for making this connection. Ignatian Spirituality is directed at the world, the world beyond the self and the world beyond our primary experiences. It is inherently aimed at the common good and is therefore an interesting source when contemplating moral leadership. We will discuss the Spiritual Exercises of humility, silence, and detachment, the prevalence of emotions and imagination, ethical evaluation, and journaling and mentoring as means for increasing self-awareness. We will do this in dialogue with the new Theory-U. This, too, is an approach where societal meaning is fundamental and seeks to increase awareness and genuine openness to the future by letting go of the self. This makes for an interesting dialogue, leading to a deeper understanding of spiritual discernment.
Embodied Realism as Interpretive Framework for Spirituality, Discernment and Leadership
Authors: Barentsen Jack
Published: November 2018

There appear to be two ways of knowing, the one driven by scientific evidence, the other by practice and intuition. The concept of embodiment brings these two ways together. Embodiment is now widely studied, as in the disciplines of nursing (Benner), cultural psychology (Voestermans and Verheggen), and cognitive psychology (Lakoff and Johnson). These developments point to the philosophical perspective of “embodied realism,” as initially outlined by Merleau-Ponty and Dooyeweerd. Our human system of knowing is directed and limited by the way our bodies enable us to interface with the world we inhabit. It requires dialogue to transcend our individuality, without arriving at universals, as research on cognitive bias by Kahneman has demonstrated. The centrality of embodiment, then, implies that spirituality is not in opposition to material concerns, but rather that embodiment is foundational for spirituality, as evident in religious ritual practices as well as in the Christian confession of the Incarnation. Moreover, spiritual discernment takes shape, not as a disembodied practice of meditation to access the divine, but as embodied seeing, listening and feeling in a collective effort to understand God’s call in the middle of one’s rapidly changing world. Finally, leadership can be seen as the embodied performance of providing a safe holding environment amidst liminality in order to enable people to cope, to be transformed and to develop a new sense of personal and social identity.
Simultaneous interpretation of K and B anomalies in terms of chiral-flavorful vectors
Authors: Matsuzaki Shinya , Nishiwaki Kenji , Yamamoto Kei
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We address the presently reported significant flavor anomalies in the Kaon and B meson systems such as the CP violating Kaon decay (ϵ′/ϵ) and lepton-flavor universality violation in B meson decays

$$ \left({R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}},\ {R}_{D^{\left(*\right)}}\right) $$

R

K

*

,

R

D

*

, by proposing flavorful and chiral vector bosons as the new physics constitution at around TeV scale. The chiral-flavorful vectors (CFVs) are introduced as a 63-plet of the global SU(8) symmetry, identified as the one-family symmetry for left-handed quarks and leptons in the standard model (SM) forming the 8-dimensional vector. Thus the CFVs include massive gluons, vector leptoquarks, and W′, Z′-type bosons, which are allowed to have flavorful couplings with left-handed quarks and leptons, and flavor-universal couplings to right-handed ones, where the latter arises from mixing with the SM gauge bosons. The flavor texture is assumed to possess a “minimal” structure to be consistent with the current flavor measurements on the K and B systems. Among the presently reported significant flavor anomalies in the Kaon and B meson systems (ϵ′/ϵ,

$$ {R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}},\ {R}_{D^{\left(*\right)}} $$

R

K

*

,

R

D

*

), the first two ϵ′/ϵ and

$$ {R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}} $$

R

K

*

anomalies can simultaneously be interpreted by the presence of CFVs; the

$$ {R}_{D^{\left(*\right)}} $$

R

D

*

anomaly is predicted not to survive, due to the approximate SU(8) flavor symmetry. Remarkably, we find that as long as both of the ϵ′/ϵ and

$$ {R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}} $$

R

K

*

anomalies persist beyond the SM, the CFVs predict the enhanced

$$ {K}^{+}\to {\pi}^{+}\nu \overline{\nu} $$

K
+

→

π
+

ν

ν
¯

and

$$ {K}_L\to {\pi}^0\nu \overline{\nu} $$

K
L

→

π
0

ν

ν
¯

decay rates compared to the SM values, which will readily be explored by the NA62 and KOTO experiments, and they will also be explored in new resonance searches at the Large Hadron Collider.
Conformal higher-spin gravity: linearized spectrum = symmetry algebra
Authors: Basile Thomas , Bekaert Xavier , Joung Euihun
Published: November 2018

Abstract

The linearized spectrum and the algebra of global symmetries of conformal higher-spin gravity decompose into infinitely many representations of the conformal algebra. Their characters involve divergent sums over spins. We propose a suitable regularization adapted to their evaluation and observe that their characters are actually equal. This result holds in the case of type-A and type-B (and their higher-depth generalizations) theories and confirms previous observations on a remarkable rearrangement of dynamical degrees of freedom in conformal higher-spin gravity after regularization.
Bit threads in higher-curvature gravity
Authors: Harper Jonathan , Headrick Matthew , Rolph Andrew
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We generalize holographic bit threads to bulk theories with a gravitational action containing higher-curvature terms. Bit threads are a reformulation of holographic entanglement entropy, where the entropy is given by the maximum number of threads emanating from a boundary region into the bulk. We show that the addition of higher-curvature terms adds corrections to the bit thread thickness that depend on the local geometry and thread orientation. Two different methods are given: determination of the density bound by requiring the maximum number of threads through a given surface to reproduce the entanglement entropy functional on that surface, and application of Lagrange dualization. The results of the two methods are applied to Gauss-Bonnet gravity as the simplest non-trivial example.
Topological terms in Composite Higgs models
Authors: Davighi Joe , Gripaios Ben
Published: November 2018

Abstract

We apply a recent classification of topological action terms to Composite Higgs models based on a variety of coset spaces G/H and discuss their phenomenology. The topological terms, which can all be obtained by integrating (possibly only locally-defined) differential forms, come in one of two types, with substantially differing consequences for phenomenology. The first type of term (which appears in the minimal model based on SO(5)/SO(4)) is a field theory generalization of the Aharonov-Bohm phase in quantum mechanics. The phenomenological effects of such a term arise only at the non-perturbative level, and lead to P and CP violation in the Higgs sector. The second type of term (which appears in the model based on SO(6)/SO(5)) is a field theory generalization of the Dirac monopole in quantum mechanics and has physical effects even at the classical level. Perhaps most importantly, measuring the coefficient of such a term can allow one to probe the structure of the underlying microscopic theory. A particularly rich topological structure, with 6 distinct terms, is uncovered for the model based on SO(6)/SO(4), containing 2 Higgs doublets and a singlet. Of the corresponding couplings, one is an integer and one is a phase.