bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drug release kinetics of pH‐responsive microgels of different glass‐transition temperatures
Authors: Islam M. S. , Tan J. P. K. , Kwok C. Y. , Tam K. C.
Published: November 2018

The pH‐responsive microgels (MGs) consisting of methacrylic acid‐ethyl acrylate (MAA‐EA), methacrylic acid‐butyl methacrylate (MAA‐BMA) or methacrylic acid‐methyl methacrylate (MAA‐MMA) crosslinked with di‐allyl phthalate (DAP) were synthesized via emulsion polymerization. It was found that the energy required to extract a proton from MGs with higher glass‐transition temperature (Tg) was greater than at a lower Tg. Procaine hydrochloride (PrHy) was used to study the release of a model hydrophobic drug from MGs with different Tgs. A drug selective electrode (DSE) was used to monitor the release as a function of pHs and Tgs. With increasing pH or decreasing Tg, the swelling of MGs was enhanced, leading to greater release of the drug. From the Berens and Hopfenberg model, the contributions of chain relaxation and diffusion processes during a release process were determined. The drug release from lower Tg MGs and at high pH is dominated by diffusion rather than chain relaxation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47284.
Thermomechanical investigation of hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene‐based linear polyurethane elastomers
Authors: Akram Nadia , Zia Khalid Mahmood , Sattar Rabia , Tabassum Shazia , Saeed Muhammad
Published: November 2018

The present work describes the trend of linear polyurethane elastomers for its thermal and mechanical behavior. The linear polyurethane elastomers have been synthesized in two different series by changing the composition of the polymers. Both series have common macrodiol of hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene and butanediol while they vary in the presence of diisocyanate. One of the series, contain an aromatic diisocyanate, toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and the other consist of 1,6‐hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) as an aliphatic diisocyanate. For linear structure, ratio of OH and NCO group has been maintained 1.0. The hydrogen bonding index is determined from Fourier transform infrared to calculate the extent of interchain hydrogen bonding which manifest the microphase separation. Young's modulus (5.79 MPa) and tensile strength (1.14 MPa) are recorded for HDI‐derived elastomers, while Young's modulus varies from 1.14 to 1.63 MPa for TDI‐based elastomers which also resulted in higher thermal stability. Thermogravimetric curves exhibit two‐step degradation with the stability of 300 °C. HDI‐based polyurethane elastomers show better tensile properties and HDI but poor thermal stability as compared to TDI‐based elastomers. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47289.
Copolyesters developed from bio‐based 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid: Synthesis, sequence distribution, mechanical, and barrier properties of poly(propylene‐co‐1,4‐cyclohexanedimethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate)s
Authors: Jia Zhen , Wang Jinggang , Sun Liyuan , Liu Fei , Zhu Jin , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: November 2018

A series of poly(propylene‐co‐1,4‐cyclohexanedimethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate)s (PPCFs) with different compositions were synthesized from bio‐based aromatic monomer 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid and 1,3‐propanediol (PDO), along with 1,4‐cyclohexanedimethylene (CHDM). The chemical structure, composition, and sequence distribution of PPCFs were determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR and 13C NMR). Results showed that the compositions of copolyesters depended on the feed molar ratio of PDO and CHDM, and all the obtained PPCFs copolyesters had triad component in a random sequential structure. With the addition of CHDM, the gas barrier properties of poly(propylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate) (PPF) deteriorated. However, when the content of CHDM reached 79%, PPCF79 still showed the CO2 and O2 barrier improvement factor of 4.5 and 3.25, respectively, which were better than those of poly(ethylene naphthalate), a well‐known polymer with barrier property. Besides, PPCF79 showed good performance on tensile modulus, tensile strength, elongation at break, and the crystallization enthalpy was improved from 3.2 J g−1 for PPF to 30.7 J g−1 for PPCF79. It has the potential to serve as a promising bio‐based polymer with excellent comprehensive performance. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47291.
Preparation of a high‐temperature‐resistant lightening agent and its application in a cement slurry system
Authors: Zhang Rui , Han Qiong , Zhu Xuyang , Cai Youfeng , Zhang Tongqing
Published: November 2018

With an organic–inorganic polymer lightening material (EL) based on epoxy resin and an aromatic amine curing agent, through addition reaction, we synthesized an epoxy‐cured resin coupled with an inorganic activation filler, microsilicon. First, epoxy resin bisphenol A 2‐glycidyl ether (E‐51) and the curing agent, m‐phenylenediamine, were selected as the materials for the epoxy‐curing system. The thermal stability of the epoxy‐cured compound (EM) was studied by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The glass‐transition temperature (T
g) of EM reached 131 °C, and the results show that T
g and the thermal stability was raised when EM was kept at 150 °C for 12 h. Second, the inorganic active filler was modified with a titanate coupling agent and characterized by contact angle measurement and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the results show that the titanate coupling agent was successfully applied to the modification of the inorganic active filler. Finally, the performance of EL in a cement slurry system was also studied. The macroscopic data showed that the compressive strength of the cement stone increased from 8.6 MPa for the EM cement stone system to 13.2 MPa for the EL cement stone system. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 136, 47292.
Enhancement of flame retardancy and mechanical properties of polyamide 6 by incorporating melamine cyanurate combined with attapulgite
Authors: Hou Wei , Fu Yifan , Zeng Cen , Liu Na , Yin Cuiyu
Published: November 2018

In this study, the nanocomposites are prepared which used polyamide 6 (PA6) composite as matrix, melamine cyanurate (MCA) as fire retardant and attapulgite (AT) as synergistic agent. The mathematical model between MCA content, AT content, and limited oxygen index (LOI) is established by multiple linear regression fitting. The polymer materials are characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Thermogravimetric Analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. Through response surface methodology, the important variables (polymerization time, the content of MCA, and the content of AT) affecting the mechanical strength of composites are modeled. Results demonstrate that when the t is 0.6 h, the AT content is 6.2%, and the MCA content is 11.5%, the mechanical properties of the PA6/MCA/AT composite are up to 44.81 MPa, and the sample passes the UL‐94 V‐0 flammability rating, and the LOI reaches 27.9%. Therefore, polymers with highly effective flame retardancy and optimal mechanical properties are prepared. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 47298.
Thermosetting mechanism study of silicon‐containing polyarylacetylene via in situ FTIR and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: You Xintong , Deng Shifeng , Huang Yanchun , Liu Zhongqi , Hu Yanhong
Published: November 2018

Silicon‐containing polyarylacetylene (abbreviated as PSA) resins, which contain Si‐(R1, R2) (R1 and R2 represent methyl or phenyl groups) and —CC—, exhibits high thermal stability upon curing up to 250 °C. The structure and thermosetting mechanism of PSA were characterized using FTIR, in situ FTIR, 13C and 29Si CP‐MAS spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. From the experimental results we can conclude that: (1) biphenyl and naphthalene rings are formed via a Diels–Alder reaction between the Ph—CC and CC groups at 210 °C, (2) the terminal alkyne mainly transforms into ethylenic bonds at 170 and 210 °C, and (3) an oxidation reaction occurs to give the oxide structure (Si—O—Si) and carbon dioxide at 250 °C. A new curing procedure has been proposed to maximize the Td5 up to 635.2 °C on that basis. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47301.
Bio‐based transparent polyamide 10T/10I/1012 with high performance
Authors: Zou Guangji , Wang Pingli , Feng Wutong , Ren Zhonglai , Ji Junhui
Published: November 2018

Transparent polyamide (TPA) is a type of optically transparent material with high performance, and poly(decamethylene terephthalamide) (PA10T) is an emerging bio‐based opaque polyamide. With the purpose of preparing bio‐based and low‐cost TPA based on PA10T, we chose dodecanedioic acid and isophthalic acid as comonomers, and successfully obtained a series of transparent PA10T/10I/1012. The basic properties of these copolyamides were characterized by intrinsic viscosity measurement, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer, solvent resistance test, water absorption measurement, and tensile measurement. Results show that PA10T/10I/1012 copolymers are amorphous and have high optical transparency. Moreover, these copolymers exhibit high thermal stability, low water absorption, and good solvent resistance, and they also show better mechanical properties compared to some commercial TPAs. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 136, 47305.
A flame retarded chitosan binder for insulating miscanthus/recycled textile fibers reinforced biocomposites
Authors: El Hage Roland , Khalaf Yasmina , Lacoste Clément , Nakhl Michel , Lacroix Patrick , Bergeret Anne
Published: November 2018

The main objective of this study is devoted to the development of new insulating and ignifuged miscanthus fibers (Mf)/recycled textile fibers (RTf) reinforced biocomposites (BCs) using chitosan as polysaccharide‐based binder and aluminum trihydroxide (ATH) fillers while focusing on the fire behavior. To achieve this goal, a preliminary study was carried out on flame retarded chitosan‐based films with various ATH‐filler ratios (20, 33, 50, and 60 wt %). ATG and pyrolysis‐combustion flow calorimeter analysis showed significant improvement of chitosan thermal behavior with the addition of 33 wt % and above of ATH. Mechanical properties of films were, however, degraded. Thereafter, different ratios of miscanthus/RTf reinforced BCs (fibers content up to 89.5–90 wt %) were elaborated through thermocompression process using neat chitosan and chitosan/ATH (67/33 wt %) as a binder. Mechanical, thermal, and fire behavior were evaluated. Higher mechanical properties were found for hybrid materials containing the association of both RTf and Mf in comparison to those containing only RTf or Mf. Fireproof BCs (E rating: according to the NF EN ISO 11925‐2), with thermal conductivity values between 0.07 and 0.09 W m−1 K−1 and density range between 270 and 299 kg m−3 were successfully elaborated. The results of this study show a promising use of the chitosan/ATH system as flame retardant for biobased insulating building materials. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47306.
Synthesis and properties of polyurethane elastomers based on renewable castor oil polyols
Authors: Zhang Jun , Yao Ming , Chen Jianjun , Jiang Zhiguo , Ma Yuhong
Published: November 2018

In this contribution, castor oil polyols with functionality of f = 2.7 and f = 2 are used as soft segments (SS) for synthesizing polyurethane elastomers (PUEs) without addition of petroleum‐based polyol. The effect of molar ratio of castor oil polyols on structure and properties of PUEs has been investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, X‐ray diffraction, tensile, swelling, and water absorption tests. The results reveal that hydrogen bonding mainly exists in hard segments (HSs) and weakens with decreasing the molar percentage of castor oil polyol (f = 2.7) in SS. T
g of SS decreases while T
g of HS remains constant as molar percentage of castor oil polyol (f = 2.7) decreased. The initial degradation temperatures (T5%) are above 300 °C and independent of the molar ratio of castor oil polyols. However, the temperature at 50% weight loss (T50%) decreases significantly as molar percentage of castor oil polyol (f = 2.7) decreased. Moreover, PUEs exhibit very low water absorption rate, <1%, after immersing in water for 140 h at room temperature. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47309.
High‐Tg porous polyimide films with low dielectric constant derived from spiro‐(adamantane‐2,9′(2′,7′‐diamino)‐fluorene)
Authors: Lv Pengxia , Dong Zhixin , Dai Xuemin , Qiu Xuepeng
Published: November 2018

Porous polyimide (PI) films with low dielectric constants and excellent thermal properties have been a pressing demand for the next generation of high‐performance, miniature, and ultrathin microelectronic devices. A series of novel porous PI films containing fluorenyl‐adamantane groups were prepared successfully via thermolysis of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) added in the PI matrix. The cross‐sectional morphologies of porous PI films showed closed pores with diameters ranging from 135 to 158 nm, which were uniform and regular in shape without interconnectivity. These porous PI films exhibited excellent thermal properties with a glass‐transition temperature at 376 °C whereas the 5% weight loss temperature in air excess of 405 °C due to enhanced rigidity afforded by fluorenyl‐adamantane groups. Accompanied by thermolysis content of PEG increasing from 0 to 20 wt %, the density of porous PI films decreased, and the corresponding porosity grew significantly from 0 to 11.48%. Depending on porosity, the dielectric constant and dielectric loss of porous PI films significantly declined from 2.89 to 2.37 and from 0.050 to 0.021, respectively. These excellent properties benefit the as‐prepared porous PI films for application as interlayer dielectrics, integrated circuit chips, or multichip modules in microelectronic fields. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47313.
Suppression of dielectric loss of PPE/HIPS alloys in microwave region by utilization of MgO filler
Authors: Imai Yusuke , Kodama Naoki , Takahashi Susumu , Kan Akinori , Hotta Yuji , Ogawa Hirotaka
Published: November 2018

The high‐frequency dielectric, thermal, and mechanical properties of poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene ether)/high‐impact polystyrene (PPE/HIPS) alloys compounded with MgO filler were investigated as a function of MgO content. A comparison with isotactic polypropylene/MgO composites was also carried out. Composite samples without voids were successfully prepared by melt‐kneading and hot‐pressing processes. A reduction of dielectric loss (tan δ) to less than 10−3 was achieved by adding 40 vol % of MgO to the PPE/HIPS alloys. The compositional dependencies of the real part of the dielectric constant (ε′), tan δ, and temperature coefficient of ε′ (TCε) showed correspondence with the Bruggeman theory. The decrease in thermal expansion with increasing filler concentration followed the logarithmic rule of mixture. The flexural moduli of the composites increased with MgO loading in accordance with the Nielsen theory. On the other hand, deteriorations were observed in flexural and Charpy impact strengths. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47315.
Investigation of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) foaming process using blowing agent by rheological and morphological methods
Authors: Kong Hyo Jae , Lee Seung Hak , Kim Dong Gun , Kim Hyo Jun , Park Gun Wook , Hyun Kyu
Published: November 2018

The effects of a chemical blowing agent (CBA) or an encapsulated physical blowing agent (PBA) on morphological development in ethylene octene copolymer (EOC) matrix using dicumyl peroxide (DCP) as a curing agent were investigated by rheological, mechanical, and morphological methods. Temperature ramp tests were carried out to understand curing and foaming processes. Curing temperature (Tcure) was determined as the crossover temperature where storage modulus G′ coincided with loss modulus G′′ in the rheological point of view. For the CBA, Tcure increased with increasing CBA concentration, whereas for the PBA, Tcure decreased with increasing PBA concentration. Other critical temperatures T1st, T2nd by foaming process were determined using the axial normal force. With these critical temperatures (Tcure, T1st, T2nd), curing and foaming mechanisms can be estimated. Simultaneously, volume expansions of samples were observed with camera. Morphology and mechanical analysis were conducted on fully cured and foamed ECP (is defined as EOC with DCP) with blowing agent. ECP with the CBA exhibited an irregular open‐cell structure, whereas when produced using the PBA, it formed a regular closed‐cell structure. Specific tensile strength tended to increase with increasing PBA concentration but as blowing agent concentration increased elongation at break decreased. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47358.
The Confluence of Accelerated Regulatory and Health Technology Assessment Access Pathways
Authors: McAuslane Neil , Liberti Lawrence , Connelly Patricia
Published: November 2018

There is a growing interest in aligning accelerated regulatory pathways with flexible access and reimbursement pathways to expedite the equitable availability of high‐quality, safe, and effective medicines that provide a value‐based approach to meeting society's most important healthcare needs. The Centre for Innovation in Regulatory Science (CIRS) identified key issues regarding the confluence of regulatory and health technology assessment processes from discussions and presentations given by international regulators, health technology assessment bodies, payers, patient representatives, and multinational pharmaceutical company representatives on this topic at CIRS workshops held in 2014 and 2017 that focused on the commonalties and differences across these pathways. Recent publications have also been highlighted. The barriers to and opportunities for aligning stakeholder expectations and needs were investigated and recommendations provided. Early dialogue among the stakeholders is the process that will likely provide the greatest return on investment of time and effort to identify, develop, review, and recommend important new medicines, especially those that address an unmet medical need.
Recognizing that Evidence is Made, not Born
Authors: Lim Robyn , Lee David K. , Sabourin Pierre , Ferguson John , Metcalf Marilyn , Smith Meredith , Corriol‐Rohou Solange , Eichler Hans‐Georg , Lumpkin Murray , Hirsch Gigi , Chen Inhua Muijrers , O'Rourke Brian , Schiel Anja , Crabb Nick , Aronson Naomi , Pezalla Edmund , Boutin Marc , Binder Louise , Wilhelm Linda
Published: November 2018

Therapeutic product development, licensing and reimbursement may seem a well‐oiled machine, but continuing high attrition rates, regulatory refusals, and patients’ access issues suggest otherwise; despite serious efforts, gaps persist between stakeholders’ stated evidence requirements and actual evidence supplied. Evidentiary deficiencies and/or human tendencies resulting in avoidable inefficiencies might be further reduced with fresh institutional cultures/mindsets, combined with a context‐adaptable practices framework that integrates emerging innovations. Here, Structured Evidence Planning, Production, and Evaluation (SEPPE) posits that evidence be treated as something produced, much like other manufactured goods, for which “built‐in quality” (i.e., “people” and “process”) approaches have been successfully implemented globally. Incorporating proactive, iterative feedback‐and‐adjust loops involving key decision‐makers at critical points could curtail avoidable evidence quality and decision hazards—pulling needed therapeutic products with high quality evidence of beneficial performance through to approvals. Critical for success, however, is dedicated, long‐term commitment to systemic transformation.
Ecological correlates of Himalayan musk deer Moschus leucogaster
Authors: Singh Paras Bikram , Saud Pradip , Cram Douglas , Mainali Kumar , Thapa Arjun , Chhetri Nar Bahadur , Poudyal Laxman Prasad , Baral Hem Sagar , Jiang Zhigang
Published: November 2018

Himalayan musk deer (Moschus leucogaster; hereafter musk deer) are endangered as a result of poaching and habitat loss. The species is nocturnal, crepuscular, and elusive, making direct observation of habitat use and behavior difficult. However, musk deer establish and repeatedly use the same latrines for defecation. To quantify musk deer habitat correlates, we used observational spatial data based on presence–absence of musk deer latrines, as well as a range of fine spatial‐scale ecological covariates. To determine presence–absence of musk deer, we exhaustively searched randomly selected forest trails using a 20‐m belt transect in different study sites within the Neshyang Valley in the Annapurna Conservation Area. In a subsequent way, study sites were classified as habitat or nonhabitat for musk deer. A total of 252 plots, 20 × 20 m, were systematically established every 100 m along 51 transects (each ~0.5 km long) laid out at different elevations to record a range of ecological habitat variables. We used mixed‐effect models and principal component analysis to characterize relationships between deer presence–absence data and habitat variables. We confirmed musk deer use latrines in forests located at higher elevations (3,200–4,200 m) throughout multiple seasons and years. Himalayan birch (Betula utilis) dominated forest, mixed Himalayan fir (Abies spectabilis), and birch forest were preferred over pure Himalayan fir and blue pine (Pinus wallichiana) forest. Greater crown cover and shrub diversity were associated with the presence of musk deer whereas tree height, diameter, and diversity were weakly correlated. Topographical attributes including aspect, elevation, distance to water source, and slope were also discriminated by musk deer. Over‐ and understory forest management can be used to protect forests likely to have musk deer as predicted by the models to ensure long‐term conservation of this rare deer.
Circulating levels of microRNA 423‐5p are associated with 90 day mortality in cardiogenic shock
Authors: Jäntti Toni , Segersvärd Heli , Tolppanen Heli , Tarvasmäki Tuukka , Lassus Johan , Devaux Yvan , Vausort Mélanie , Pulkki Kari , Sionis Alessandro , Bayes‐Genis Antoni , Tikkanen Ilkka , Lakkisto Päivi , Harjola Veli‐Pekka
Published: November 2018

Aims

The role of microRNAs has not been studied in cardiogenic shock. We examined the potential role of miR‐423‐5p level to predict mortality and associations of miR‐423‐5p with prognostic markers in cardiogenic shock.

Methods and results

We conducted a prospective multinational observational study enrolling consecutive cardiogenic shock patients. Blood samples were available for 179 patients at baseline to determine levels of miR‐423‐5p and other biomarkers. Patients were treated according to local practice. Main outcome was 90 day all‐cause mortality. Median miR‐423‐5p level was significantly higher in 90 day non‐survivors [median 0.008 arbitrary units (AU) (interquartile range 0.003–0.017) vs. 0.004 AU (0.002–0.009), P = 0.003]. miR‐423‐5p level above median was associated with higher lactate (median 3.7 vs. 2.4 mmol/L, P = 0.001) and alanine aminotransferase levels (median 68 vs. 35 IU/L, P < 0.001) as well as lower cardiac index (1.8 vs. 2.4, P = 0.04) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (56 vs. 70 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.002). In Cox regression analysis, miR‐423‐5p level above median was associated with 90 day all‐cause mortality independently of established risk factors of cardiogenic shock [adjusted hazard ratio 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.2–3.2), P = 0.01].

Conclusions

In cardiogenic shock patients, above median level of miR‐423‐5p at baseline is associated with markers of hypoperfusion and seems to independently predict 90 day all‐cause mortality.
Clear cell adenocarcinoma of the prostatic urethra: A case report
Authors: Sugimura Rumiko , Kawahara Takashi , Noguchi Go , Takamoto Daiji , Izumi Koji , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Kishida Takeshi , Yao Masahiro , Tanabe Mikiko , Uemura Hiroji
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Clear cell adenocarcinoma of the prostatic urethra in men is an extremely rare disease, with only eight case reports published.

Case presentation

A 56‐year‐old man visited our hospital for gross hematuria. Urinary cytology detected class V, cystoscopy showed no abnormal findings, and contrast‐enhanced computed tomography also showed no abnormal findings in his upper urinary tract except for a low‐enhancement lesion on his left prostate lobe. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cystic lesion surrounding the prostate that was suspected of being urethral or prostate cancer, so transurethral resection was performed. A papillary tumor was detected at the prostatic urethra, and after resecting this tumor, a cavity showing multiple tumors was observed. The final pathological diagnosis was clear cell adenocarcinoma. Laparoscopic radical cystectomy and urethrectomy were thus performed. The pathological diagnosis was the same as at the primary tumor site.

Conclusion

We herein report a case of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the prostatic urethra.
Ultrasound‐Guided Therapeutic Scapulothoracic Interval Injections
Authors: Walter William R. , Burke Christopher J. , Adler Ronald S.
Published: November 2018

Scapulothoracic pain is a common ailment, but the underlying cause can be difficult to diagnose in a timely manner, and treatment options are limited. We retrospectively review our experience using ultrasound‐guided therapeutic scapulothoracic interval steroid injections to treat scapulothoracic pain and review correlative magnetic resonance imaging findings over a 5‐year period. Although a variety of structural causes are known to cause scapulothoracic pain, in our experience, most cases lack correlative imaging findings. Ultrasound‐guided scapulothoracic interval injections provide a safe, easily performed diagnostic and therapeutic tool for treating patients with periscapular pain, providing at least short‐term symptom relief.
Determination of Normal Breast and Areolar Skin Elasticity Using Shear Wave Elastography
Authors: Şendur Halit Nahit , Gültekin Serap , Salimli Leyla , Cindil Emetullah , Cerit Mahinur , Şendur Aylin Billur
Published: November 2018

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to determine reference values for normal breast and areolar skin elasticity using shear wave elastography.

Methods

The right breasts of 200 female participants were evaluated. The age, weight, body mass index, menopausal status, and parity number of all participants were noted. The elasticity values and thickness of the areolar skin and 4 quadrants of the breast skin of all participants were measured. To assess the reproducibility of shear wave elastography, a randomly selected subgroup of 35 participants was reevaluated by a second observer.

Results

The mean age of the participants ± SD was 48.79 ± 10.74 years (range, 18–79 years). The mean elasticity measurements for the superior, inferior, lateral, and medial regions of the breast and areolar skin were 33.54, 29.84, 30.16, 29.20, and 31.35 kPa, respectively. The mean of the 4‐quadrant measurements of breast skin elasticity was 30.68 ± 9.11 kPa. Age had a moderate negative correlation with breast skin elasticity (r = –0.353; P < .001) and a weak negative correlation with areolar skin elasticity (r = –0.237; P = .001). The parity number had weak negative correlations with breast (r = –0.150; P = .034) and areolar (r = –0.207; P < .001) skin elasticity. The interobserver agreement varied from good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients, 0.67–0.91) for the breast and areolar skin elasticity measurements.

Conclusions

Shear wave elastography is a reproducible imaging modality for evaluations of breast and areolar skin elasticity, and our results may provide important pilot data for evaluations of clinical entities that affect the breast and areolar skin structures.
Glycoproteomic markers of hepatocellular carcinoma‐mass spectrometry based approaches
Authors: Zhu Jianhui , Warner Elisa , Parikh Neehar D. , Lubman David M.
Published: November 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most‐common cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. Most cases of HCC develop in patients that already have liver cirrhosis and have been recommended for surveillance for an early onset of HCC. Cirrhosis is the final common pathway for several etiologies of liver disease, including hepatitis B and C, alcohol, and increasingly non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. Only 20–30% of patients with HCC are eligible for curative therapy due primarily to inadequate early‐detection strategies. Reliable, accurate biomarkers for HCC early detection provide the highest likelihood of curative therapy and survival; however, current early‐detection methods that use abdominal ultrasound and serum alpha fetoprotein are inadequate due to poor adherence and limited sensitivity and specificity. There is an urgent need for convenient and highly accurate validated biomarkers for HCC early detection. The theme of this review is the development of new methods to discover glycoprotein‐based markers for detection of HCC with mass spectrometry approaches. We outline the non‐mass spectrometry based methods that have been used to discover HCC markers including immunoassays, capillary electrophoresis, 2‐D gel electrophoresis, and lectin‐FLISA assays. We describe the development and results of mass spectrometry‐based assays for glycan screening based on either MALDI‐MS or ESI analysis. These analyses might be based on the glycan content of serum or on glycan screening for target molecules from serum. We describe some of the specific markers that have been developed as a result, including for proteins such as Haptoglobin, Hemopexin, Kininogen, and others. We discuss the potential role for other technologies, including PGC chromatography and ion mobility, to separate isoforms of glycan markers. Analyses of glycopeptides based on new technologies and innovative softwares are described and also their potential role in discovery of markers of HCC. These technologies include new fragmentation methods such as EThcD and stepped HCD, which can identify large numbers of glycopeptide structures from serum. The key role of lectin extraction in various assays for intact glycopeptides or their truncated versions is also described, where various core‐fucosylated and hyperfucosylated glycopeptides have been identified as potential markers of HCC. Finally, we describe the role of LC‐MRMs or lectin‐FLISA MRMs as a means to validate these glycoprotein markers from patient samples. These technological advancements in mass spectrometry have the potential to lead to novel biomarkers to improve the early detection of HCC.
The success of salvage procedures for failing digital replants: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hatchell Alexandra C. , Sandre Anthony R. , McRae Matthew , Farrokhyar Forough , Avram Ronen
Published: November 2018

Background

The success of salvage procedures for failing digital replants (FR) is poorly documented. We sought to evaluate the success of salvage procedures for FR and factors contributing to successes and failures of replants.

Methods

Adult patients who presented to our center between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2015, suffered ≥1 digital amputation(s), and underwent digital replantation were included. Preoperative, perioperative, and postoperative details were recorded. Digits were monitored postoperatively via nursing and physician assessments. The presumed reason for failure, details, and outcomes of salvage attempts were recorded for FR. Length of hospital stay and complications were also recorded.

Results

Fifty‐two patients and 83 digits were included. Fifty‐two digits (63%) were compromised (arterial ischemia in 15 digits; venous congestion in 37 digits) and 48 digits had salvage therapy. Twenty‐one FR (44%) were salvaged via operative (1 of 2; 50%), nonoperative (19 of 43; 44%), and combined (1 of 3; 33%) therapies. FR patients were more likely than those with successful replants to receive a blood transfusion (52 vs. 23%; p = .009) with more transfused units (3.45 ± 3.30 vs. 0.86 ± 0.95; p = .001). Length of stay was prolonged for FR patients (9 [range: 2–22] vs. 7 [range: 3–19] days; p = .039). Ultimately, 59% (49 of 83) of replants were successful, where 25% (21 of 83) were successfully salvaged.

Conclusion

Nonoperative and operative salvage therapies improve the rate of replant survival. We suggest close postoperative monitoring of all replants and active salvage interventions for compromised replants in the postoperative period.
Technical Note: The design, construction, and evaluation of a liquid‐based single phantom solution for TG128 brachytherapy ultrasound QA
Authors: Leong Brian , Ostyn Mark , Oh Seungjong , Kim Siyong
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Since the publication of the AAPM TG128 report for the quality assurance (QA) of prostate brachytherapy ultrasound systems, no commercially available phantoms have been developed which satisfy all of the task group recommendations. Current solid phantoms require a separate user‐implemented setup using a container with liquid medium to evaluate the alignment between the needle template and the electronic grid, a test of geometric accuracy with critical implications in dosimetric quality. Utilizing a 3D printer, we constructed a cost‐effective, liquid‐based phantom that provides a complete TG128 solution which improves the efficiency of brachytherapy ultrasound QA.

Methods

The TG128 report was used to guide the design process of the liquid‐based phantom. The needle template and electronic grid alignment setup served as the foundation with specific components developed to integrate all remaining tests. Water was chosen as the liquid medium, with speed of sound adjusted to 1,540 m/s via salinity per the task group recommendations. The proof of concept was evaluated by comparing the time stamps labeled on QA images between the liquid‐based phantom and a commercially available one for both a new and experienced user.

Results

A TG128 QA trial run demonstrated that all recommended tests can be completed with the single phantom setup. Evaluation of the time data revealed a total QA duration of 45 min (average of two trials) with the liquid‐based phantom, compared to 70 and 90 min with the commercial phantom for a new and experienced user.

Conclusions

The liquid‐based phantom is specifically designed to satisfy the recommendations of the TG128 report. The incorporation of 3D printing allows simple design modifications to adapt the phantom on‐the‐fly if needed. The resulting product improves the efficiency of brachytherapy ultrasound QA by eliminating the need for multiple phantom setups.
Comprehensive behavioral analysis and quantification of brain free amino acids of C57BL/6J congenic mice carrying the 1473G allele in tryptophan hydroxylase‐2
Authors: Koshimizu Hisatsugu , Hirata Nao , Takao Keizo , Toyama Keiko , Ichinose Takashi , Furuya Shigeki , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi
Published: November 2018

Aim

Tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (Tph2) is a rate‐limiting enzyme for the biosynthesis of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT, serotonin). Previous studies have reported that C1473G polymorphism of the murine Tph2 gene leads to decreased 5‐HT levels in the brain and abnormal behavioral phenotypes, such as impaired anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors. In this study, to confirm the effect of the C1473G polymorphism on mouse phenotypes, we conducted a comprehensive battery of behavioral tests and measured the amounts of brain free amino acids involved in the production of 5‐HT.

Methods

We obtained C57BL/6J congenic mice that were homozygous for the 1473G allele of Tph2 (1473G) and subjected them and their wild‐type littermates (1473C) to a battery of behavioral tests. Using reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), we measured the amounts of free amino acids in the 5‐HT and epinephrine synthetic/metabolic pathways in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum, and midbrain.

Results

We failed to detect significant differences between genotypes in depression‐like behaviors, anxiety‐like behaviors, social behaviors, sensorimotor gaiting, or learning and memory, while 1473G mice exhibited a nominally significant impairment in gait analysis, which failed to reach study‐wide significance. In the HPLC analysis, there were no significant differences in the amounts of 5‐HT, dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum, and midbrain.

Conclusion

Our findings do not support the idea that congenic C57BL/6J mice carrying the 1473G allele may represent an animal model of mood disorder under normal conditions without stress.
Enhancement in Interfacial Adhesion of Ti/Polyetheretherketone by Electrophoretic Deposition of Graphene Oxide
Authors: Pan Lei , Lv Yunfei , Nipon Roy , Wang Yifan , Duan Lixiang , Hu Jingling , Ding Wenye , Ma Wenliang , Tao Jie , Shi Yu
Published: November 2018

This article discusses about the significance of graphene oxide (GO) deposition on the surface of a titanium plate by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method to improve the adhesive strength of Ti/polyetheretherketone (PEEK) interfacial adhesive. Firstly, the anodic EPD method was applied to a water dispersion solution of GO, and then the morphology and the properties of titanium plate surface were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and contact angle measurements before and after GO deposition. Furthermore, the changes in the properties of GO after heating at 390°C were characterized by Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies. According to the results of single lap tensile shear test, the adhesion strength of Ti/PEEK interface after the anodization and deposition of GO was 34.94 MPa, an increase of 29.2% compared with 27.04 MPa of sample with only anodization. Also, the adhesion strengths were 58.1 and 76.5% higher compared with the samples of only GO deposited (22.1 MPa) and pure titanium (19.8 MPa), respectively. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1243–E1251, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Different compatibility approaches to improve the thermal and mechanical properties of EVA/starch composites
Authors: Hamadache Hassiba , Djidjelli Hocine , Boukerrou Amar , Kaci Mustapha , José Antonio Jofre‐Reche , Martín‐Martínez José Miguel
Published: November 2018

Biocompostable composites based of ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer were prepared by using a twin‐screw extruder. The compatibility between EVA/starch composites were improved either by addition of polyethylene‐grafted maleic anhydride (PE‐g‐MA), or by reactive extrusion with maleic anhydride (MA) and benzoyl peroxide. The crystallinity of the non‐compatibilized composites increased with the starch content. The addition of PE‐g‐MA increased the crystallinity of the composites made with up to 20 wt% of starch. The thermal stability of EVA/starch composites decreased with increasing the starch content, and the addition of PE‐g‐MA compatibilizer enhanced the thermal stability of the composite. The in‐situ grafting with MA and PBO led to an increase in the thermal stability of the composites containing higher amounts of starch. Further, the mechanical properties of the compatibilized EVA/starch composites were improved with increasing the starch content and this was ascribed to the improved interfacial interactions between starch and EVA. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3242–3253, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Understanding IPL boundaries
Authors: Dowell Art M.
Published: November 2018

Layer of protection analysis (LOPA) is a simplified risk assessment tool that has been in use for almost three decades. The technique has improved the focus on independent protection layers (IPLs) that can prevent the progression of an initiating cause to an undesired consequence (a scenario). An IPL must be capable of preventing the scenario from reaching the consequence. To execute the simplified LOPA approach, the IPL must be independent of the initiating cause and other IPLs.

A potential pitfall in LOPA and in the management of IPLs identified in LOPA is misunderstanding the boundary of the IPL.

For example, a pressure relief valve (PRV) is intended as an IPL to prevent the consequence of catastrophic rupture of the vessel with potential for fatality. In reality, for the PRV to prevent vessel rupture, the inlet piping from the vessel to the relief valve and the outlet piping from the relief valve to the ultimate destination must provide sufficient flow capability. The IPL boundary must include any block valves in the inlet and outlet piping, and any devices such as flame arrestors or back pressure controllers. The probability of failure on demand (PFD) must include everything in the expanded IPL boundary.

If the IPL boundaries are not correctly understood, the LOPA is not correct and the organization is deluding itself on the risk reduction.

In addition to being independent and effective in preventing the consequence, an IPL must also be auditable. If an IPL boundary does not include all the components to make the IPL effective, the audit (inspection and testing) program will be incomplete. The PFD of the excluded—but needed—components will be higher than the PFD of the same components that are audited. Narrow IPL boundaries give two problems in calculating the correct PFD: (1) Needed components are not included in the PFD calculation, and (2) The actual PFD of excluded components is higher than it would be if the components were inspected.

The article provides examples and illustrations for several types of IPLs: safety instrumented functions, dikes, relief device with fire‐resistant insulation and cladding on the vessel, operator response to alarm, and deflagration arrester. The article includes diagrams to illustrate the concepts. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 38: e12019, 2019
Evaluating inherently safer design with multiattribute utility theory
Authors: Dee Sean J. , Cox Brenton , Ogle Russell , Walters Matthew
Published: November 2018

Incorporating inherently safer design (ISD) into a process safety program can benefit a site's overall process safety program. However, ISD solutions are rarely capable of being implemented without consideration of various tradeoffs associated with other critical operating factors at a plant. Critics have often accused companies of failing to implement ISD solely on the basis of cost, often neglecting other factors that must be accounted for in the decision. Multiattribute decisions are difficult to resolve, but there are tools available to assist the decision maker. One such tool that can be applied to provide insight into the implementation of ISD solutions is multiattribute utility theory (MAUT). MAUT is a structured approach that evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of competing solutions for a problem with multiple objectives. In this article, the concept of MAUT will be explained. Then MAUT analysis will be applied to three case studies where investigators have recommended incorporating ISD or technology into a process. Using MAUT analysis, the benefit of the proposed design change will be evaluated in a systematic, semiquantitative methodology that will demonstrate how the tools can help facility personnel understand and characterize the benefits of ISD. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Process Saf Prog 38:e12022, 2019
The role of oxidative stress in 63 T-induced cytotoxicity against human lung cancer and normal lung fibroblast cell lines
Authors: Kucinska Malgorzata , Mieszczak Helena , Piotrowska-Kempisty Hanna , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Granig Walter , Murias Marek , Erker Thomas
Published: November 2018

It has been shown previously that molecules built on benzanilide and thiobenzanilide scaffolds possess differential biological properties including selective anticancer activity. In our previous study, we examined the cytotoxic activity and mechanism of action of the thiobenzanilide derivative N,N′-(1,2-phenylene)bis3,4,5–trifluorobenzothioamide (63 T) as a potential chemotherapeutic compound in an experimental model employing A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells and CCD39Lu non-tumorigenic lung fibroblasts. Since the results suggested oxidative stress as a co-existing mechanism of the cytotoxic effect exerted by 63 T on tested cells, studies involving the analysis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and markers of oxidative stress in cells incubated with 63 T were carried out. It may be concluded that the selective activity of 63 T against cancer cells shown in our experiments is caused, at least in part, by the response of the tested cells to 63 T mediated oxidative stress in both tested cell lines.
Barriers, Facilitators and Interventions to Support Virtual Reality Implementation in Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Glegg Stephanie Miranda Nadine , Levac Danielle Elaine
Published: November 2018

Virtual reality and active video games (VR/AVGs) are promising rehabilitation tools because of their potential to facilitate abundant, motivating, and feedback‐rich practice. However, clinical adoption remains low despite a growing evidence base and the recent development of clinically accessible and rehabilitation‐specific VR/AVG systems. Given clinicians’ eagerness for resources to support VR/AVG use, a critical need exists for knowledge translation (KT) interventions to facilitate VR/AVG integration into clinical practice. KT interventions have the potential to support adoption by targeting known barriers to, and facilitators of, change. This scoping review of the VR/AVG literature uses the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to (1) structure an overview of known barriers and facilitators to clinical uptake of VR/AVGs for rehabilitation; (2) identify KT strategies to target these factors to facilitate adoption; and (3) report the results of these strategies. Barriers/facilitators and evaluated or proposed KT interventions spanned all but 1 and 2 TDF domains, respectively. Most frequently cited barriers/facilitators were found in the TDF domains of Knowledge, Skills, Beliefs About Capabilities, Beliefs About Consequences, Intentions, Goals, Environmental Context and Resources, and Social Influences. Few studies empirically evaluated KT interventions to support adoption; measured change in VR/AVG use did not accompany improvements in self‐reported skills, attitudes, and knowledge. Recommendations to target frequently identified barriers include technology development to meet end‐user needs more effectively, competency development for end‐users, and facilitated VR/AVG implementation in clinical settings. Subsequent research can address knowledge gaps in both clinical and VR/AVG implementation research, including on KT intervention effectiveness and unexamined TDF domain barriers.

Level of Evidence

IV