bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features be distinguished from classic papillary thyroid carcinoma and follicular adenomas by fine‐needle aspiration?
Authors: Brandler Tamar C. , Zhou Fang , Liu Cheng Z. , Cho Margaret , Lau Ryan P. , Simsir Aylin , Patel Kepal N. , Sun Wei
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND

Noninvasive encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma, a diagnosis implying malignancy as a variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), has recently been reclassified to noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features (NIFTP) on surgical pathology. Due to the effects of such a recategorization on rate of malignancy and clinical management algorithms, it is imperative that we explore whether presurgical fine‐needle aspiration can differentiate NIFTP from PTC and follicular adenoma (FA).

METHODS

Cytology slides from subjects with final surgical pathology resection diagnoses of NIFTP/encapsulated follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma, classic PTC, and FA made between January 2013 and August 2016 were assessed. The Bethesda System diagnoses were tabulated and cytomorphologic features were analyzed for an association with surgical pathology diagnoses.

RESULTS

A total of 56 NIFTP, 67 classic PTC, and 30 FA cases were included. The presurgical NIFTP diagnosis according to The Bethesda System was most often atypia of undetermined significance (37.5%) followed by suspicious for follicular neoplasm/follicular neoplasm (26.8%), suspicious for malignancy (17.9%), benign (10.7%), and positive for malignancy (7.1%). The most common NIFTP cytomorphologic features were nuclear enlargement (83.9%), nuclear crowding (82.1%), nuclear clearing (69.6%), and microfollicles (73.2%). All cytomorphologic features demonstrated statistically significant associations (P value range, <.001‐.002) between NIFTP and PTC, whereas select cytomorphologic features demonstrated significant associations between NIFTP and FA.

CONCLUSIONS

Several statistically significant associations appear to be present between cytomorphologic features and surgical diagnosis that may be used as clues to distinguish NIFTP, PTC, and FA on fine‐needle aspiration. Although diagnostic confirmation of NIFTP must occur at the time of excision, similar to follicular neoplasms, the possibility of NIFTP may be raised preoperatively on cytology. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:378–88. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Tunable Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanoparticles from Tannic Acid and Urea and Their Potential for Sustainable Soots
Authors: Berthold Thomas , Castro Claudia Ramirez , Winter Martin , Hoerpel Gerhard , Kurttepeli Mert , Bals Sara , Antonietti Markus , Fechler Nina
Published: March 2017

Nano‐sized nitrogen‐doped carbon spheres are synthesized from two cheap, readily available and sustainable precursors: tannic acid and urea. In combination with a polymer structuring agent, nitrogen content, sphere size and the surface (up to 400 m2 g−1) can be conveniently tuned by the precursor ratio, temperature and structuring agent content. Because the chosen precursors allow simple oven synthesis and avoid harsh conditions, this carbon nanosphere platform offers a more sustainable alternative to classical soots, for example, as printing pigments or conduction soots. The carbon spheres are demonstrated to be a promising as conductive carbon additive in anode materials for lithium ion batteries.
Rapid Acquisition of X‐Ray Scattering Data from Droplet‐Encapsulated Protein Systems
Authors: Saldanha Oliva , Graceffa Rita , Hémonnot Clément Y. J. , Ranke Christiane , Brehm Gerrit , Liebi Marianne , Marmiroli Benedetta , Weinhausen Britta , Burghammer Manfred , Köster Sarah
Published: March 2017

Encapsulating reacting biological or chemical samples in microfluidic droplets has the great advantage over single‐phase flows of providing separate reaction compartments. These compartments can be filled in a combinatoric way and prevent the sample from adsorbing to the channel walls. In recent years, small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) in combination with microfluidics has evolved as a nanoscale method of such systems. Here, we approach two major challenges associated with combining droplet microfluidics and SAXS. First, we present a simple, versatile, and reliable device, which is both suitable for stable droplet formation and compatible with in situ X‐ray measurements. Second, we solve the problem of “diluting” the sample signal by the signal from the oil separating the emulsion droplets by multiple fast acquisitions per droplet and data thresholding. We show that using our method, even the weakly scattering protein vimentin provides high signal‐to‐noise ratio data.
Improved equation of state for finite‐temperature spin‐polarized electron liquids on the basis of Singwi–Tosi–Land–Sjölander approximation
Authors: Tanaka Shigenori
Published: March 2017

An accurate expression for the exchange‐correlation free energy fxc of homogeneous electron fluids at finite temperatures is presented on the basis of Singwi–Tosi–Land–Sjölander (STLS) approximation. In addition to the derivation for the paramagnetic state, that for the ferromagnetic state is carried out afresh in which a correction in the strong Coulomb coupling regime is incorporated into the construction of the analytic expression as a function of the coupling constant and Fermi degeneracy. The fitting formula for fxc is then extended over any degree of spin polarization with the aid of available interpolation scheme. The proposed equation of state, called the iSTLS formula, shows reasonable agreement with the existing quantum Monte Carlo evaluations at finite temperatures in the paramagnetic state, thus giving a consensus for the thermodynamic functions between many‐body theories and computer simulations. On the other hand, the current status for the agreement between various evaluations of fxc is relatively unsatisfactory in the ferromagnetic state, suggesting the necessity for further investigations.
Sex change in the subdioecious shrub Eurya japonica (Pentaphylacaceae)
Authors: Wang Hui , Matsushita Michinari , Tomaru Nobuhiro , Nakagawa Michiko
Published: March 2017

Sex change affects the sex ratios of plant populations and may play an essential role in the evolutionary shift of sexual systems. Sex change can be a strategy for increasing fitness over the lifetime of a plant, and plant size, environmental factors, and growth rate may affect sex change. We described frequent, repeated sex changes following various patterns in a subdioecious Eurya japonica population over five successive years. Of the individuals, 27.5% changed their sex at least once, and these changes were unidirectional or bidirectional. The sex ratio (females/males/all hermaphrodite types) did not fluctuate over the 5 years. In our study plots, although the current sex ratio among the sexes appears to be stable, the change in sex ratio may be slowly progressing toward increasing females and decreasing males. Sex was more likely to change with higher growth rates and more exposure to light throughout the year. Among individuals that changed sex, those that were less exposed to light in the leafy season and had less diameter growth tended to shift from hermaphrodite to a single sex. Therefore, sex change in E. japonica seemed to be explained by a response to the internal physiological condition of an individual mediated by intrinsic and abiotic environmental factors.
Interacting effects of climate and landscape physiography on piñon pine growth using an individual‐based approach
Authors: Redmond Miranda D. , Kelsey Katharine C. , Urza Alexandra K. , Barger Nichole N.
Published: March 2017

Forest and woodland ecosystems play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle and may be strongly affected by changing climate. Here, we use an individual‐based approach to model piñon pine (Pinus edulis) radial growth responses to climate across gradients of environmental stress. We sampled piñon pine trees at 24 sites across southwestern Colorado that varied in soil available water capacity (AWC), elevation, and latitude, obtaining a total of 552 piñon pine tree ring series. We used linear mixed‐effect models to assess piñon pine growth responses to climate and site‐level environmental stress (30‐year mean cumulative climatic water deficit [CWD] and soil AWC). Using a similar modeling approach, we also determined long‐term growth trends across our gradients of environmental stress. Piñon pine growth was strongly positively associated with winter precipitation. Summer vapor pressure deficit (VPD) was strongly negatively associated with piñon pine growth during years of low winter precipitation, whereas summer VPD had no effect on piñon pine growth during years of high winter precipitation. The strength of the relationship between the annual climatic variables (winter precipitation and summer VPD) and piñon pine growth was also influenced by site‐level environmental stress, suggesting that the sensitivity of woodland ecosystems to changing climate will vary across the landscape due to differences in local physiographic conditions. Trees at sites with lower CWDs were more responsive to summer VPD, showing greater reductions in growth rates during warmer years. Trees at sites with greater soil AWC were more responsive to winter precipitation, showing higher growth rates during years of high precipitation. Piñon pine growth rates declined moderately over the past century across our study area, suggesting that recent increases in aridity have resulted in long‐term growth declines.
Analysis of high‐frequency and long‐term data in undergraduate ecology classes improves quantitative literacy
Authors: Klug Jennifer L. , Carey Cayelan C. , Richardson David C. , Darner Gougis Rebekka
Published: March 2017

Ecologists are increasingly analyzing long‐term and high‐frequency sensor datasets as part of their research. As ecology becomes a more data‐rich scientific discipline, the next generation of ecologists needs to develop the quantitative literacy required to effectively analyze, visualize, and interpret large datasets. We developed and assessed three modules to teach undergraduate freshwater ecology students both scientific concepts and quantitative skills needed to work with large datasets. These modules covered key ecological topics of phenology, physical mixing, and the balance between primary production and respiration, using lakes as model systems with high‐frequency or long‐term data. Our assessment demonstrated that participating in these modules significantly increased student comfort using spreadsheet software and their self‐reported competence in performing a variety of quantitative tasks. Interestingly, students with the lowest pre‐module comfort and skills achieved the biggest gains. Furthermore, students reported that participating in the modules helped them better understand the concepts presented and that they appreciated practicing quantitative skills. Our approach demonstrates that working with large datasets in ecology classrooms helps undergraduate students develop the skills and knowledge needed to help solve complex ecological problems and be more prepared for a data‐intensive future.
Sorting Graphene Quantum Dots by Using Aluminum Ions
Authors: Liu Jingyuan , Zhang Fangwei , Liu Fei , Liu Hui , Zhang Jingyan , Guo Shouwu
Published: March 2017

Recent work has revealed that the lateral size of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) is a crucial factor dictating their biomedical applications. A facile method to sort as‐prepared GQDs with wide size distributions into different sized GQDs with narrow size distributions by using aluminum ions was developed. The mechanism of this separation was investigated. The obtained differently sized GQDs were found to exhibit dissimilar cytotoxicity, which suggests that their effects on cells or organisms could be different.
Meeting the Modeling Needs of Future Energy Systems
Authors: Keles Dogan , Jochem Patrick , McKenna Russell , Ruppert Manuel , Fichtner Wolf
Published: March 2017

Structural changes in the energy sector have created considerable challenges for regulators, energy consumers, and suppliers. Energy researchers rely on quantitative modeling approaches to address these challenges. At the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, we have developed several models to analyze today's and the future's energy markets to address the challenges for electricity networks as a result of intermittent renewable and decentralized power and heat supply and to find solutions for integrating demand response. This paper presents a survey of these approaches and discusses further challenges. The developed models have proved to be suitable for answering a range of research questions related to structural changes. As the energy sector remains in a constant state of flux, these models need to be further developed. This means coupling different energy sectors and markets and improving their technical accuracy as well as their spatial and temporal resolutions.
Nonparametric construction of probability maps under local stationarity
Authors: García‐Soidán Pilar , Menezes Raquel
Published: March 2017

The environmental contamination risk can be evaluated in a specific area by approximating the probability that the pollutant under study exceeds a critical value. This issue requires the estimation of the distribution function involved, which can be addressed by applying the indicator kriging methodology or by approximating the sill of the variogram of the underlying indicator process. These approaches demand an appropriate characterization of the indicator variogram, which in turn requires a previous specification of the trend function, if the latter is suspected to be nonconstant. Because accuracy of the results will be strongly dependent on the adequate approximation of both functions, we suggest proceeding in a different way to avoid these requirements. Thus, in this paper, two kernel‐type estimators are proposed, on the basis of first approximating the distribution at the sampled sites and then obtaining a weighted average of the resulting values, to derive a valid estimator at each (sampled or unsampled) location. Consistency of the kernel approaches is proved under rather general conditions, such as local stationarity and the existence of derivatives up to the second order of the distribution function. Numerical studies have been carried out to illustrate the performance of our proposals when compared to those procedures requiring the approximation of the indicator variogram. In a final step, the kernel‐type estimation of the distribution function has been applied to map the risk of contamination by arsenic in the Central Region of Portugal. With this aim, biomonitoring data of arsenic concentrations were used to detect those zones with higher risk of arsenic accumulation, which is mainly located on the northern part of the region.
DRESS syndrome: A case of cross‐reactivity with lacosamide?
Authors: Fong Man Kei , Sheng Bun
Published: March 2017

A 42‐year‐old patient with epilepsy was admitted to the hospital for fever and generalized skin rash. He has known allergy to phenytoin. Valproate was started in 2012, but failed to control his seizure despite gradual increase in dosage. Phenobarbitone was added 16 days before admission and was stopped on admission. He was treated with beta‐lactam antibiotics. The rash subsided gradually after the cessation of phenobarbitone. Lacosamide was subsequently added for seizure control. Unfortunately, he developed drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome soon after introduction of lacosamide that required the use of systemic steroid for acute hepatitis. A cross‐reactivity with lacosamide was suspected in view of the rapid onset of DRESS syndrome after the initial rash resolution and soon after the introduction of lacosamide. We postulated that the rapid onset of DRESS syndrome may be related to the aromatic ring that is in common among phenytoin, phenobarbitone, and lacosamide.
Integrated expression analysis identifies transcription networks in mouse and human gastric neoplasia
Authors: Chen Zheng , Soutto Mohammed , Rahman Bushra , Fazili Muhammad W. , Peng DunFa , Blanca Piazuelo Maria , Chen Heidi , Kay Washington M. , Shyr Yu , El‐Rifai Wael
Published: March 2017

Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. The Tff1 knockout (KO) mouse model develops gastric lesions that include low‐grade dysplasia (LGD), high‐grade dysplasia (HGD), and adenocarcinomas. In this study, we used Affymetrix microarrays gene expression platforms for analysis of molecular signatures in the mouse stomach [Tff1‐KO (LGD) and Tff1 wild‐type (normal)] and human gastric cancer tissues and their adjacent normal tissue samples. Combined integrated bioinformatics analysis of mouse and human datasets indicated that 172 genes were consistently deregulated in both human gastric cancer samples and Tff1‐KO LGD lesions (P < .05). Using Ingenuity pathway analysis, these genes mapped to important transcription networks that include MYC, STAT3, β‐catenin, RELA, NFATC2, HIF1A, and ETS1 in both human and mouse. Further analysis demonstrated activation of FOXM1 and inhibition of TP53 transcription networks in human gastric cancers but not in Tff1‐KO LGD lesions. Using real‐time RT‐PCR, we validated the deregulated expression of several genes (VCAM1, BGN, CLDN2, COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1, EpCAM, IFITM1, MMP9, MMP12, MMP14, PDGFRB, PLAU, and TIMP1) that map to altered transcription networks in both mouse and human gastric neoplasia. Our study demonstrates significant similarities in deregulated transcription networks in human gastric cancer and gastric tumorigenesis in the Tff1‐KO mouse model. The data also suggest that activation of MYC, STAT3, RELA, and β‐catenin transcription networks could be an early molecular step in gastric carcinogenesis.
Identifying dynamic functional connectivity biomarkers using GIG‐ICA: Application to schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and psychotic bipolar disorder
Authors: Du Yuhui , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Lin Dongdong , Sui Jing , Chen Jiayu , Salman Mustafa , Tamminga Carol A. , Ivleva Elena I. , Sweeney John A. , Keshavan Matcheri S. , Clementz Brett A. , Bustillo Juan , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: March 2017

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have shown altered brain dynamic functional connectivity (DFC) in mental disorders. Here, we aim to explore DFC across a spectrum of symptomatically‐related disorders including bipolar disorder with psychosis (BPP), schizoaffective disorder (SAD), and schizophrenia (SZ). We introduce a group information guided independent component analysis procedure to estimate both group‐level and subject‐specific connectivity states from DFC. Using resting‐state fMRI data of 238 healthy controls (HCs), 140 BPP, 132 SAD, and 113 SZ patients, we identified measures differentiating groups from the whole‐brain DFC and traditional static functional connectivity (SFC), separately. Results show that DFC provided more informative measures than SFC. Diagnosis‐related connectivity states were evident using DFC analysis. For the dominant state consistent across groups, we found 22 instances of hypoconnectivity (with decreasing trends from HC to BPP to SAD to SZ) mainly involving post‐central, frontal, and cerebellar cortices as well as 34 examples of hyperconnectivity (with increasing trends HC through SZ) primarily involving thalamus and temporal cortices. Hypoconnectivities/hyperconnectivities also showed negative/positive correlations, respectively, with clinical symptom scores. Specifically, hypoconnectivities linking postcentral and frontal gyri were significantly negatively correlated with the PANSS positive/negative scores. For frontal connectivities, BPP resembled HC while SAD and SZ were more similar. Three connectivities involving the left cerebellar crus differentiated SZ from other groups and one connection linking frontal and fusiform cortices showed a SAD‐unique change. In summary, our method is promising for assessing DFC and may yield imaging biomarkers for quantifying the dimension of psychosis. Hum Brain Mapp 38:2683–2708, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conformationally Selective Synthesis of Mononitrocalix[4]arene in Cone or Partial Cone
Authors: Royappa Ana Rita N. S. , Ayer Maxime , Fracassi Alessandro , Ebert Marc‐Olivier , Aroua Safwan , Yamakoshi Yoko
Published: March 2017

Nitro‐substituted calixarenes in a cone and a partial cone conformation were prepared selectively using distinct synthetic routes. The selective nitration of tris‐ or penta‐substituted phenols of calix[4]arene or calix[6]arene provided mononitrocalix[n]arenes (n = 4, 6). Subsequent addition of ethylene glycol (EG) moieties to mononitrocalix[4]arene provided tetraEGylcalix[4]arene in locked partial cone conformation. By an alternative route – initial addition of EG moieties to the non‐derivatized calix[4]arene followed by the uncontrolled nitration – provided mononitro‐ and dinitro‐tetraEGylcalix[4]arenes locked in the cone conformation. These nitrocalix[4]arenes with locked cone or partial cone conformation are useful building blocks for further assembly of supramolecular systems, especially in the area of material sciences.
The mediating role of cultural coping behaviours on the relationships between academic stress and positive psychosocial well‐being outcomes
Authors: Kuo Ben C. H. , Soucie Kendall M. , Huang Siqi , Laith Refa
Published: March 2017

While culture's effect on the coping process has long been acknowledged in the stress‐coping literature conceptually, empirical evidence and attempts to discern the specific relationship between culture and coping remain very scarce. Against this backdrop, the present study applied the Cultural Transactional Theory (Chun, Moos, & Cronkite, 2006) to examine the mediating role of cultural coping behaviours (Collective, Engagement and Avoidance Coping) on the relationship between academic stress (AS) and two positive psychosocial well‐being outcome measures: Collective Self‐esteem (CSE) and Subjective Well‐being (SWB). Responses from a sample of undergraduate students in Canada (N = 328) were analysed to test a theory‐driven, hypothesised model of coping using structural equation modelling (SEM). As hypothesised, the SEM results showed that: (a) the proposed cultural coping model fit the data well; (b) Engagement Coping and Collective Coping partially mediated the association between AS and the outcomes and (c) the path relationships among the constructs were in the hypothesised directions. A set of preliminary exploratory analyses indicated that Collective Coping was most strongly endorsed by the African/Black and the Middle Eastern cultural groups as compared to other ethnic groups. Implications of the study's findings for future research and practice concerning culture, stress, and coping are discussed.
Mechanical and microstructural analysis of a radially expandable vascular conduit for neonatal and pediatric cardiovascular surgery
Authors: Loneker Abigail E. , Luketich Samuel K. , Bernstein Doug , Kalra Arush , Nugent Alan W. , D'Amore Antonio , Faulk Denver M.
Published: March 2017

In pediatric cardiovascular surgery, there is a significant need for vascular prostheses that have the potential to grow with the patient following implantation. Current clinical options consist of nonexpanding conduits, requiring repeat surgeries as the patient outgrows the device. To address this issue, PECA Labs has developed a novel ePTFE vascular conduit with the capability of being radially expanded via balloon catheterization. In the described study, a systematic characterization and comparison of two proprietary ePTFE expandable conduits was conducted. Conduit sizes of 8 and 16 mm inner diameters for both conduits were evaluated before and after expansion with a 26 mm balloon. Comprehensive mechanical testing was completed, including quantification of circumferential, and longitudinal tensile strength, suture retention strength, burst strength, water entry pressure, dynamic compliance, and kink radius. Scanning electron microscopy was used to investigate the microstructural properties. Automated extraction of the fiber architectural features for each scanning electron micrograph was achieved with an algorithm for each conduit before and after expansion. Results showed that both conduits were able to expand significantly, to as much as 2.5× their original inner diameter. All mechanical properties were within clinically acceptable values following expansion. Analysis of the microstructure properties of the conduits revealed that the circumferential main angle of orientation, orientation index, and spatial periodicity did not significantly change following expansion, whereas the node area fraction decreased post expansion. Successful proof‐of‐concept of this novel product represents a critical step toward clinical translation and provides hope for newborns and growing children with congenital heart disease. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 659–671, 2018.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Structure of the Human Polyoma JC Virus Agnoprotein
Authors: Coric Pascale , Saribas A. Sami , Abou‐Gharbia Magid , Childers Wayne , Condra Jon H. , White Martyn K. , Safak Mahmut , Bouaziz Serge
Published: March 2017

Agnoprotein is an important regulatory protein of the human polyoma JC virus (JCV) and plays critical roles during the viral replication cycle. It forms highly stable dimers and oligomers through its Leu/Ile/Phe‐rich domain, which is important for the stability and function of the protein. We recently resolved the partial 3D structure of this protein by NMR using a synthetic peptide encompassing amino acids Thr17 to Gln52, where the Leu/Ile/Phe‐ rich region was found to adopt a major alpha‐helix conformation spanning amino acids 23–39. Here, we report the resolution of the 3D structure of full‐length JCV agnoprotein by NMR, which not only confirmed the existence of the previously reported major α‐helix domain at the same position but also revealed the presence of an additional minor α‐helix region spanning amino acid residues Leu6 to lys13. The remaining regions of the protein adopt an intrinsically unstructured conformation. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3268–3280, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Deciphering the Molecular Effects of Mutations on ATRX Cause ATRX Syndrome: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Palaniappan Chandrasekaran , Ramalingam Rajasekaran
Published: March 2017

α‐thalassemia mental retardation X‐linked (ATRX) syndrome is caused by the dysfunction of ATRFfigX protein. The present study explored the structural consequences influenced by two observed mutations V194I and C220R on ADD domain of ATRX protein by applying all atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. MD result showed that both the mutants exhibited wide variations in their backbone dynamics, as a result, mutant V210I showed complete distortion on α3 and the mutant C220R displayed a biased disruption on α2‐3. The interference in the local folding of α‐helices in both the mutants resulted by the loss of hydrogen bonds mediated by the backbone atoms. Principle component analysis (PCA) elucidated that both the mutants endured a diverse conformational dynamics, consequently adopted thermodynamically different conformational state. Besides, binding residues in both the mutants showed more structural disorder, thereby unable to recognize the hallmark modification, K9me3 (tri‐methylated lysine at position 9) of histone H3 peptide and it was not conducive for the wild type ADD domain like functionality. Altogether, our findings provide knowledge to understand the structural and functional relationship of disease‐associated mutations, V194I and C220R on ADD domain as well as gain further insights into the molecular pathogenesis of ATRX syndrome. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3318–3327, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Suicide Risk Among BDSM Practitioners: The Role of Acquired Capability for Suicide
Authors: Brown Sarah L. , Roush Jared F. , Mitchell Sean M. , Cukrowicz Kelly C.
Published: March 2017

Objective

Bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, and sadomasochism (BDSM) practitioners are at increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. We hypothesized the association between (a) lifetime frequency of BDSM‐related sexual behaviors and (b) BDSM identification and suicide attempt status would be mediated by acquired capability components (i.e., fearlessness about death and pain tolerance). Gender differences were examined.

Method

Participants were 576 BDSM practitioners (meanage = 28.71; 66.7% male) recruited from online BDSM‐related groups, cross‐sectionally.

Results

Among males, the total indirect effect of acquired capability components in the relation between BDSM‐related sexual behaviors and suicide attempt status was significant. The specific indirect effect of perceived pain tolerance in the relation between both BDSM‐related sexual behaviors and BDSM identification and suicide attempt status was significant. There were no significant effects for females. Additionally, 12% reported a suicide attempt history.

Conclusion

Among males, BDSM‐related sexual behaviors and BDSM identification were associated with increased acquired capability components, which were positively associated with suicide attempt status.
Blocking fibrotic signaling in fibroblasts from patients with carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Yamanaka Yoshiaki , Gingery Anne , Oki Gosuke , Yang Tai‐Hua , Zhao Chunfeng , Amadio Peter C.
Published: March 2017

Fibrosis of the subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT) in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients is increasingly recognized as an important aspect of CTS pathophysiology. In this study, we evaluated the effect of blocking profibrotic pathways in fibroblasts from the SSCT in CTS patients. Fibroblasts were stimulated with transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1), and then treated either with a specific fibrosis pathway inhibitor targeting TGF‐β receptor type 1 (TβRI), platelet‐derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), or vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR). Fibrosis array and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction of fibrotic genes were evaluated. Array gene expression analysis revealed significant down‐regulation of multiple fibrotic genes after treatment with TβRI, PDGFR, and VEGFR inhibitors. No array fibrotic genes were significantly down‐regulated with EGFR inhibition. Further gene expression analysis of known CTS fibrosis markers collagen type I A2 (Col1), collagen type III A1 (Col3), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), and SERPINE1 showed significantly down‐regulation after TβRI inhibition. In contrast, VEGFR inhibition significantly down‐regulated CTGF and SERPINE1, whereas, PDGFR and EGFR inhibition significantly down‐regulated Col3. Taken together the inhibition of TβRI appears to be the primary mediator of fibrotic gene expression in fibroblasts from CTS patients. TGF‐β/Smad activity was further evaluated, and as expected inhibition of Smad activity was significantly down‐regulated after inhibition of TβRI, but not with PDGFR, VEGFR, or EGFR inhibition. These results indicate that local therapies specifically targeting TGF‐β signaling alone or in combination offer the potential of a novel local antifibrosis therapy for patients with CTS.
Conditions on Ramsey Nonequivalence
Authors: Axenovich Maria , Rollin Jonathan , Ueckerdt Torsten
Published: March 2017

Given a graph H, a graph G is called a Ramsey graph of H if there is a monochromatic copy of H in every coloring of the edges of G with two colors. Two graphs G, H are called Ramsey equivalent if they have the same set of Ramsey graphs. Fox et al. (J Combin Theory Ser B 109 (2014), 120–133) asked whether there are two nonisomorphic connected graphs that are Ramsey equivalent. They proved that a clique is not Ramsey equivalent to any other connected graph. Results of Nešetřil et al. showed that any two graphs with different clique number (Combinatorica 1(2) (1981), 199–202) or different odd girth (Comment Math Univ Carolin 20(3) (1979), 565–582) are not Ramsey equivalent. These are the only structural graph parameters we know that “distinguish” two graphs in the above sense. This article provides further supportive evidence for a negative answer to the question of Fox et al. by claiming that for wide classes of graphs, the chromatic number is a distinguishing parameter. In addition, it is shown here that all stars and paths and all connected graphs on at most five vertices are not Ramsey equivalent to any other connected graph. Moreover, two connected graphs are not Ramsey equivalent if they belong to a special class of trees or to classes of graphs with clique‐reduction properties.
Comparison of readout‐segmented and conventional single‐shot for echo‐planar diffusion‐weighted imaging in the assessment of kidney interstitial fibrosis
Authors: Friedli Iris , Crowe Lindsey Alexandra , de Perrot Thomas , Berchtold Lena , Martin Pierre‐Yves , de Seigneux Sophie , Vallée Jean‐Paul
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To compare readout‐segmented echo‐planar imaging (EPI) (RESOLVE) to single‐shot EPI (ss‐EPI) diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) for the assessment of renal interstitial fibrosis.

Materials and Methods

A phantom, eight healthy volunteers (under 30 years to avoid age‐fibrosis related) and 27 chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients (scheduled for kidney biopsy) were scanned (at 3T) with ss‐EPI and 5‐shot RESOLVE DWI (resolution: 2 × 2 × 5 mm3, 10 b‐values). The cortico‐medullary difference for each DW parameter from a monoexponential fit (ΔADC) or, segmented biexponential fit (ΔD, ΔD*, ΔFp) were compared between both sequences. A fibrosis threshold of 40% was defined to separate all 35 subjects into low and high fibrosis groups. The linear relationship between DW parameters and percentage fibrosis (up to 80%) from Masson trichrome was assessed with the Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficient. Fisher Z‐transform was used for R2 correlation comparison.

Results

A coefficient of variation between ADCs of 3% was measured between both sequences in the phantom. In healthy volunteers, no significant difference was measured for all DW parameters. Both sequences separated low to high level of fibrosis with a significant decrease of ΔADC (RESOLVE P = 3.1 × 10‐6, ss‐EPI P = 0.003) and ΔD (RESOLVE P = 8.2 × 10‐5, ss‐EPI P = 0.02) in the high level of fibrosis. However, RESOLVE ΔADC had a stronger negative correlation (P = 0.04 for R2 comparison) with fibrosis than ss‐EPI ΔADC (RESOLVE R2 = 0.65, P = 5.9 × 10‐9, ss‐EPI R2 = 0.29, P = 8.9 × 10‐4). ΔD (RESOLVE) was correlated (moderately) with fibrosis (R2 = 0.29, P = 9.2 × 10‐4); however, ΔD* and ΔFp did not show, in our population, a significant correlation with interstitial fibrosis (0.01 < R2 < 0.08).

Conclusion

ΔADC derived from both sequences correlated with fibrosis. ΔADC from RESOLVE showed better correlation with fibrosis than ΔADC from ss‐EPI and therefore has potential to monitor CKD.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1631–1640.
Diffusion kurtosis imaging for differentiating borderline from malignant epithelial ovarian tumors: A correlation with Ki‐67 expression
Authors: Li Hai Ming , Zhao Shu Hui , Qiang Jin Wei , Zhang Guo Fu , Feng Feng , Ma Feng Hua , Li Yong Ai , Gu Wei Yong
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To investigate the use of diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) in differentiating borderline from malignant epithelial ovarian tumors (MEOTs) and to correlate DKI parameters with Ki‐67 expression.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐two consecutive patients with epithelial ovarian tumors (17 borderline epithelial ovarian tumors, BEOTs; 35 MEOTs) were prospectively evaluated using DKI with b values of 0, 500, 1000, 1500, 2000, and 2500 s/mm2 and standard diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) with b values of 0 and 1000 s/mm2 using a 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) unit. The kurtosis (K) and diffusion coefficient (D) from DKI and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) from standard DWI were measured, compared, and correlated with Ki‐67 expression between the two groups. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann–Whitney U‐test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and Spearman's correlation.

Results

The K value was significantly lower in BEOTs than in MEOTs (0.55 ± 0.09 vs. 0.9 ± 0.2), while the D and ADC values were significantly higher in BEOTs than in MEOTs (2.27 ± 0.35 vs. 1.39 ± 0.37 and 1.72 ± 0.36 vs. 1.1 ± 0.25, respectively) (P < 0.001). For differentiating between BEOTs and MEOTs, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 88.2%, 94.3%, and 92.3% for K value; 88.2%, 91.4%, and 90.4% for D value; and 88.2%, 88.6%, and 88.5% for ADC value, respectively. However, there were no differences in the diagnostic performances among the three parameters above (K vs. ADC, P = 0.203; D vs. ADC, P = 0.148; K vs. D, P = 0.904). The K value was positively correlated with Ki‐67 expression (r = 0.699), while the D and ADC values were negatively correlated with Ki‐67 expression (r = –0.680, –0.665, respectively).

Conclusion

Preliminary findings demonstrate that DKI is an alternative tool for differentiating BEOTs from MEOTs, and is correlated with Ki‐67 expression. However, no added value is found for DKI compared with standard DWI.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1499–1506.
Molecular Architecture and Enhanced Thermal Stability of Electrospun Poly(ε‐caprolactone)/Aminopropyl Isobutyl Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane Hybrid Fibers
Authors: Grim Zachary B. , Bauer Adam J. P. , Li Lingyao , Li Bingbing
Published: March 2017

Polymer‐based electrospun fibers have been intensively studied as antimicrobial membranes, drug carriers, and energetic materials. Inorganic fillers or small molecules have been routinely added into polymer matrices in order to enhance product functions. However, the electrospinning process is kinetically controlled and solvent rapidly evaporates due to the large surface‐to‐volume ratio of spinning liquid jet. When electrospinning a multicomponent system, complex phase behavior may occur and give rise to interesting internal structures of resulting products. Such kinetically driven phenomena deserve more attention for optimizing product performance. Here, electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone)(PCL)/aminopropyl‐heptaisobutyl‐polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (AMPOSS) fibers with AMPOSS content up to 30 wt% are studied as a model system to understand the impact of kinetically controlled phase separation on the fibers' internal structure, properties, and thermal stability. With sufficient AMPOSS loading, the hybrid fibers are found to have an AMPOSS‐shell/PCL‐core structure. The thermal stability of the as‐spun PCL/AMPOSS fibers is therefore greatly enhanced.

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Templated, Macroporous PEG‐DA Hydrogels and Their Potential Utility as Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Authors: Gacasan Erica G. , Sehnert Rebecca M. , Ehrhardt Daniel A. , Grunlan Melissa A.
Published: March 2017

Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEG‐DA) hydrogels have been widely utilized to investigate cell–material interactions and as scaffolds for tissue engineering. Traditionally, PEG‐DA hydrogels are prepared via the UV‐cure of aqueous precursor solutions, but afford a limited range of pore size and interconnectivity that is essential for cellular proliferation and neotissue formation. To overcome these limitations, macroporous PEG‐DA hydrogels are prepared in this study using a combination of solvent‐induced phase separation (SIPS) and a fused salt template. PEG‐DA concentration in the organized fabrication solvent (20, 30, and 40 wt%) and average salt particle size (≈180, ≈270, and ≈460 μm) are varied and the resulting hydrated hydrogel morphology, swelling, mechanical properties, and degradation are characterized. These templated SIPS PEG‐DA hydrogels broaden PEG‐DA hydrogel properties and, in some cases, afford a series of compositions whose properties are decoupled.

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The role of inoculum and reactor configuration for microbial community composition and dynamics in mainstream partial nitritation anammox reactors
Authors: Agrawal Shelesh , Karst Søren M. , Gilbert Eva M. , Horn Harald , Nielsen Per H. , Lackner Susanne
Published: March 2017

Implementation of partial nitritation anammox (PNA) in the mainstream (municipal wastewater treatment) is still under investigation. Microbial community structure and reactor type can influence the performance of PNA reactor; yet, little is known about the role of the community composition of the inoculum and the reactor configuration under mainstream conditions. Therefore, this study investigated the community structure of inocula of different origin and their consecutive community dynamics in four different lab‐scale PNA reactors with 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. These reactors were operated for almost 1 year and subjected to realistic seasonal temperature fluctuations as in moderate climate regions, that is, from 20°C in summer to 10°C in winter. The sequencing analysis revealed that the bacterial community in the reactors comprised: (1) a nitrifying community (consisting of anaerobic ammonium‐oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB), ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB), and nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria (NOB)); (2) different heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria and other putative heterotrophic bacteria (HB). The nitrifying community was the same in all four reactors at the genus level, although the biomasses were of different origin. Community dynamics revealed a stable community in the moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR) in contrast to the sequencing batch reactors (SBR) at the genus level. Moreover, the reactor design seemed to influence the community dynamics, and reactor operation significantly influenced the overall community composition. The MBBR seems to be the reactor type of choice for mainstream wastewater treatment.
In vivo MRI of the human finger at 7 T
Authors: Laistler Elmar , Dymerska Barbara , Sieg Jürgen , Goluch Sigrun , Frass‐Kriegl Roberta , Kuehne Andre , Moser Ewald
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To demonstrate a dedicated setup for ultrahigh resolution MR imaging of the human finger in vivo.

Methods

A radiofrequency coil was designed for optimized signal homogeneity and sensitivity in the finger at ultrahigh magnetic field strength (7 T), providing high measurement sensitivity. Imaging sequences (2D turbo‐spin echo (TSE) and 3D magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo (MPRAGE)) were adapted for high spatial resolution and good contrast of different tissues in the finger, while keeping acquisition time below 10 minutes. Data was postprocessed to display finger structures in three dimensions.

Results

3D MPRAGE data with isotropic resolution of 200 µm, along with 2D TSE images with in‐plane resolutions of 58 × 78 µm2 and 100 × 97 µm2, allowed clear identification of various anatomical features such as bone and bone marrow, tendons and annular ligaments, cartilage, arteries and veins, nerves, and Pacinian corpuscles.

Conclusion

Using this dedicated finger coil at 7 T, together with adapted acquisition sequences, it is possible to depict the internal structures of the human finger in vivo within patient‐compatible measurement time. It may serve as a tool for diagnosis and treatment monitoring in pathologies ranging from inflammatory or erosive joint diseases to injuries of tendons and ligaments to nervous or vascular disorders in the finger. Magn Reson Med 79:588–592, 2018. © 2017 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Five‐Component Self‐Assembly of Cucurbituril‐Based Hetero‐pseudorotaxanes
Authors: Carvalho Cátia Parente , Domínguez Zoe , Domínguez Cristina , El‐Sheshtawy Hamdy S. , Silva José Paulo Da , Arteaga Jesús F. , Pischel Uwe
Published: March 2017

[5]Pseudorotaxanes can be obtained by self‐sorting using heteroditopic guests and various cucurbituril homologues as hosts. The assembly and chemically induced disassembly of the pseudorotaxanes can be monitored by measuring the fluorescence of the anthracene guest in solution. Mass spectral evidence for the supramolecular assemblies is obtained in the gas phase. The disassembly in the gas phase can be achieved by collision‐induced dissociation leading to the corresponding [2]‐ and [3]pseudorotaxanes.
Preparation and properties of an efficient smoke suppressant and flame‐retardant agent for thermoplastic polyurethane
Authors: Jiao Chuanmei , Wang Hongzhi , Zhang Zuobin , Chen Xilei
Published: March 2017

APP@ETA, as a new type of flame retardant, was prepared by chemically modifying ammonium polyphosphate (APP) with ethanolamine (ETA) and applied to thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) in this study. Then, the smoke suppression properties and flame‐retardant effects of APP@ETA in TPU composites were evaluated using smoke density test, cone calorimeter test, etc. And, the thermal degradation properties of flame‐retardant TPU composites were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis/infrared spectrometry. The smoke density test results indicated that APP@ETA could obviously improve the luminous flux of TPU composites in the test with or without flame. The cone calorimeter test results showed that total smoke release, smoke production rate and smoke factor of the composites with APP@ETA were significantly decreased than those of the composites with APP. For example, when the loading of APP@ETA or APP was 12.5 wt%, the total smoke release of the sample with APP@ETA decreased to 3.5 m2/m2from 6.0 m2/m2, which was much lower than that of the sample with APP, reduced by 41.7%. The thermogravimetric analysis results demonstrated that APP@ETA could decrease the initial decomposition temperature and improve the thermal stability at high temperature for TPU composites. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determinants of quality of life outcomes for survivors of pediatric brain tumors
Authors: Barrera Maru , Atenafu Eshetu G. , Schulte Fiona , Bartels Ute , Sung Lillian , Janzen Laura , Chung Joanna , Cataudella Danielle , Hancock Kelly , Saleh Amani , Strother Douglas , McConnell Dina , Downie Andrea , Hukin Juliette , Zelcer Shayna
Published: March 2017

Introduction

To describe the quality of life (QOL) of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTSs) prospectively and to identify potential medical, personal and family contextual factors associated with QOL.

Methods

Ninety‐one PBTSs (8–16 years) who were off treatment and attending a regular classroom participated. Self‐ and caregiver‐proxy–reported on QOL at baseline, 2 and 8 months. At baseline, cognitive, executive function, attention and memory, medical and demographics information were attained.

Results

Significant improvements over time in PBTS's emotional QOL were self‐ and proxy‐reported (P < 0.01) and global QOL proxy‐reported (P = 0.04). Receiving cranial irradiation therapy (CIT) and poor behavioral regulation predicted poor global QOL scores reported by both informants (P < 0.017). Poor behavioral regulation also predicted poor self‐reported school functioning, and poor proxy‐reported emotional and social QOL (P < 0.037). Boys reported better emotional QOL (P = 0.029), and PBTSs over 11 years old were reported to have better emotion and school‐related QOL. Finally, being non‐White and having low income predicted poor self‐reported global and emotional QOL (P = 0.041).

Conclusions

Receiving CIT, having poor behavioral regulation, being a female, under 11 years old and coming from low‐income, non‐White families place PBTSs at risk for poor QOL.