bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sheet beam x‐ray fluorescence computed tomography (XFCT) imaging of gold nanoparticles
Authors: Dunning Chelsea A. S. , Bazalova‐Carter Magdalena
Published: March 2018

Purpose

X‐ray fluorescence computed tomography (XFCT) experiments have typically used pencil beams for data acquisition, which yielded good quality images of gold nanoparticles (AuNP) but prolonged the imaging time. Here we propose three novel collimator geometries for use with faster sheet beam XFCT data acquisition. The feasibility of a multipinhole, parallel, and converging collimator was investigated in a Monte Carlo study.

Methods

A cylindrical water phantom with 2 cm in diameter and 3 cm in height containing 0.5–2 mm diameter vials with 0.4%–1.6% AuNP concentrations was modelled by FLUKA. A 15 and 81 keV monoenergetic x‐ray sheet beam of 0.4 mm in width was used to image the phantom with L‐shell and K‐shell XFCT, respectively, with a dose of 30 mGy. The collimator thickness for L‐shell and K‐shell data acquisition was 3.3 and 5.1 mm, respectively. The XFCT images resulting from three collimator geometries were generated using the maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM) iterative reconstruction method. With a resolution of 0.4 mm they were corrected for x‐ray attenuation. The sheet beam XFCT images were compared against pencil beam geometry images that were generated using 55 translations. To assess image quality, the contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) was evaluated for each vial. The Rose criterion was used to determine the lowest AuNP concentration detectable for each image.

Results

Among the three collimator geometry types, the sheet beam L‐shell and K‐shell parallel collimator XFCT images yielded AuNP sensitivity limits at 0.09% and 0.08%, respectively, for a 2 mm diameter vial. The AuNP sensitivity limits of the pencil beam XFCT images were 0.07% and 0.01% for L‐shell and K‐shell XFCT, respectively. The L‐shell parallel collimator AuNP imaging sensitivity approached that of the pencil beam geometry with a 55‐fold reduction in imaging time. The AuNP sensitivity limits for the 1 mm diameter vial for the L‐shell and K‐shell parallel collimator XFCT images were 0.19% and 0.16%, respectively, and those of the pencil beam XFCT images were 0.08% and 0.01% for L‐shell and K‐shell XFCT, respectively. The remaining two collimator geometries resulted in a lower CNR and poorer image quality. For a 2 mm diameter vial, the AuNP sensitivity limits for the L‐shell and K‐shell multipinhole collimator XFCT images were 0.23% and 0.52%, respectively, while for the L‐shell and K‐shell converging collimator XFCT images the AuNP sensitivity limits were 0.38% and 0.13%, respectively.

Conclusion

This work demonstrates the feasibility of sheet beam L‐shell XFCT imaging for small animal studies using parallel‐oriented lead collimators which can detect AuNP concentrations approaching the level of pencil beam images with reduced imaging time.
EM‐enhanced US‐based seed detection for prostate brachytherapy
Authors: Dehghan Ehsan , Bharat Shyam , Kung Cynthia , Bonillas Antonio , Beaulieu Luc , Pouliot Jean , Kruecker Jochen
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Intraoperative dosimetry in low‐dose‐rate (LDR) permanent prostate brachytherapy requires accurate localization of the implanted seeds with respect to the prostate anatomy. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS) imaging, which is the main imaging modality used during the procedure, is not sufficiently robust for accurate seed localization. We present a method for integration of electromagnetic (EM) tracking into LDR prostate brachytherapy procedure by fusing it with TRUS imaging for seed localization.

Method

Experiments were conducted on five tissue mimicking phantoms in a controlled environment. The seeds were implanted into each phantom using an EM‐tracked needle, which allowed recording of seed drop locations. After each needle, we reconstructed a 3D ultrasound (US) volume by compounding a series of 2D US images acquired during retraction of an EM‐tracked TRUS probe. Then, a difference image was generated by nonrigid registration and subtraction of two consecutive US volumes. A US‐only seed detection method was used to detect seed candidates in the difference volume, based on the signature of the seeds. Finally, the EM‐based positions of the seeds were used to detect the false positives of the US‐based seed detection method and also to estimate the positions of the missing seeds. After the conclusion of the seed implant process, we acquired a CT image. The ground truth for seed locations was obtained by localizing the seeds in the CT image and registering them to the US coordinate system.

Results

Compared to the ground truth, the US‐only detection algorithm achieved a localization error mean of 1.7 mm with a detection rate of 85%. By contrast, the EM‐only seed localization method achieved a localization error mean of 3.7 mm with a detection rate of 100%. By fusing EM‐tracking information with US imaging, we achieved a localization error mean of 1.8 mm while maintaining a 100% detection rate without any false positives.

Conclusions

Fusion of EM‐tracking and US imaging for prostate brachytherapy can combine high localization accuracy of US‐based seed detection with the robustness and high detection rate of EM‐based seed localization. Our phantom experiments serve as a proof of concept to demonstrate the potential value of integrating EM‐tracking into LDR prostate brachytherapy.
Technical Note: An approach to building a Monte Carlo simulation model for a double scattering proton beam system
Authors: Yuan Jiankui , Ellis Rodney , Machtay Mitchell
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate and develop a Monte Carlo (MC) simulation model for a passive double scattering compact proton therapy system based on limited information of the mechanical components.

Method

We built a virtual machine source model (VMSM) which included a detailed definition of each beam‐modifying component in the nozzle. Conceptually, it is similar to the conventional virtual analytical source model (VASM), except that the numerical machine nozzle or beamline is constructed in the VMSM, whereas in the VASM analytical parameters characterizing the energy spectrum and source fluence distribution are sought. All major beam shaping components were included in the VMSM and the model simulates interactions of the beam with a rotating range modulation wheel (RMW) combined with the beam current modulation. The RMWs, the first and second scatterer in the system were generated and tuned to reproduce measurement data as closely as possible. To validate the model, we compared the percent depth dose curves, spread out Bragg peaks (SOBPs) and lateral profiles against measured commissioning beam data.

Results

The agreement of beam range between the MC calculation and measurement was within 1 mm for all beam options. The distal‐falloff length was in good agreement as well (<1 mm for the large and deep groups, <1.5 mm for the small group). Agreement to within 2.5 mm of measured SOBP widths was obtained for all MC calculations. For lateral profiles, differences were found to be less than 2 mm.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that with limited geometrical information it is possible to build an acceptable source model for MC simulations of a passive double scattering compact proton therapy system. The agreement between the measurements and the MC model provides validation for use of the model for further studies of the dosimetric effects in patient treatments.
Applications of dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization in chemistry and biochemistry
Authors: Zhang Guannan , Hilty Christian
Published: March 2018

Sensitivity of detection is one of the most limiting aspects when applying NMR spectroscopy to current problems in the molecular sciences. A number of hyperpolarization methods exist for increasing the population difference between nuclear spin Zeeman states and enhance the signal‐to‐noise ratio by orders of magnitude. Among these methods, dissolution dynamic nuclear polarization (D‐DNP) is unique in its capability of providing high spin polarization for many types of molecules in the liquid state. Originally proposed for biomedical applications includingin vivoimaging, applications in high resolution NMR spectroscopy are now emerging. These applications are the focus of the present review. Using D‐DNP, a small sample aliquot is first hyperpolarized as a frozen solid at low temperature, followed by dissolution into the liquid state. D‐DNP extends the capabilities of liquid state NMR spectroscopy towards shorter timescales and enables the study of nonequilibrium processes, such as the kinetics and mechanisms of reactions. It allows the determination of intermolecular interactions, in particular based on spin relaxation parameters. At the same time, a challenge in the application of this hyperpolarization method is that spin polarization is nonrenewable. Substantial effort has been devoted to develop methods for enabling rapid correlation spectroscopy, the measurement of time‐dependent signals, and the extension of the observable time window. With these methods, D‐DNP has the potential to open new application areas in the chemical and biochemical sciences.
MR imaging of magnetic ink patterns via off‐resonance sensitivity
Authors: Perkins Stephanie L. , Daniel Bruce L. , Hargreaves Brian A.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Printed magnetic ink creates predictable B0 field perturbations based on printed shape and magnetic susceptibility. This can be exploited for contrast in MR imaging techniques that are sensitized to off‐resonance. The purpose of this work was to characterize the susceptibility variations of magnetic ink and demonstrate its application for creating MR‐visible skin markings.

Methods

The magnetic susceptibility of the ink was estimated by comparing acquired and simulated B0 field maps of a custom‐built phantom. The phantom was also imaged using a 3D gradient echo sequence with a presaturation pulse tuned to different frequencies, which adjusts the range of suppressed frequencies. Healthy volunteers with a magnetic ink pattern pressed to the skin or magnetic ink temporary flexible adhesives applied to the skin were similarly imaged.

Results

The volume‐average magnetic susceptibility of the ink was estimated to be 131 ± 3 parts per million across a 1‐mm isotropic voxel (13,100 parts per million assuming a 10‐μm thickness of printed ink). Adjusting the saturation frequency highlights different off‐resonant regions created by the ink patterns; for example, if tuned to suppress fat, fat suppression will fail near the ink due to the off‐resonance. This causes magnetic ink skin markings placed over a region with underlying subcutaneous fat to be visible on MR images.

Conclusion

Patterns printed with magnetic ink can be imaged and identified with MRI. Temporary flexible skin adhesives printed with magnetic ink have the potential to be used as skin markings that are visible both by eye and on MR images.
Quantification of lectin fluorescence in GNE myopathy muscle biopsies
Authors: Leoyklang Petcharat , Class Bradley , Noguchi Satoru , Gahl William A , Carrillo Nuria , Nishino Ichizo , Huizing Marjan , Malicdan May Christine
Published: March 2018

Introduction: GNE myopathy is an adult‐onset muscle disorder characterized by impaired sialylation of (muscle) glycans, detectable by lectin histochemistry. We describe a standardized method to quantify (lectin‐) fluorescence in muscle sections, applicable for diagnosis and response to therapy for GNE myopathy. Methods: Muscle sections were fluorescently labeled with the sialic acid‐binding Sambucus nigra agglutinin (SNA) lectin and antibodies to sarcolemma residence protein caveolin‐3 (CAV‐3). Entire tissue sections were imaged in tiles and fluorescence was quantified. Results: SNA fluorescence co‐localizing with CAV‐3 was ∼50% decreased in GNE myopathy biopsies compared with muscle‐matched controls, confirming previous qualitative results. Discussion: This quantitative fluorescence method can accurately determine sialylation status of GNE myopathy muscle biopsies. This method is adaptable for expression of other membrane‐associated muscle proteins, and may be of benefit for disorders in which therapeutic changes in expression are subtle and difficult to assess by other methods. Muscle Nerve 58: 286–292, 2018
Utility of catheterized specimens in reducing overdiagnosis of urinary tract infections in women
Authors: Aisen Carrie M. , Ditkoff Erica , RoyChoudhury Arindam , Corish Michele , Rutman Matthew P. , Chung Doreen E. , Badalato Gina M. , Cooper Kimberly L.
Published: March 2018

Aims

To evaluate the utility of catheterized samples in reducing overdiagnosis of UTI based on voided specimens among patients presenting with a range of urinary symptoms. We also aimed to determine variables that may modify the predictive value of the voided midstream urine culture.

Methods

Patient charts were reviewed to identify female patients referred to our voiding dysfunction clinic with a range of complaints warranting urine studies (5/2014‐8/2016). Patients with a positive voided urine culture who also had a catheterized urine culture in our system were included. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify patient characteristics associated with a negative catheterized specimen despite a positive voided specimen.

Results

One hundred and seven women were included in the study. Eighty percent of the cohort was post‐menopausal. Although all patients had positive voided specimens, only 53 (49.5%) had positive catheterized specimens. On multivariate analysis negative nitrites on clean catch UA was a significant predictor of a negative catheterized sample (adjusted OR 8.9, 95%CI 2.2‐43.7, P = 0.003). WBC/HPF <10 on clean catch UA trended towards significance (adjusted OR 4.72, 95%CI 1.1‐26.1, P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Relying on clean catch urine samples may lead to significant over‐diagnosis of UTIs. Our study suggests that in female patients who have vague symptoms of UTI, obtaining catheterized specimens may be beneficial in avoiding the overdiagnosis of UTIs and the overuse of antibiotics. Larger, prospective studies testing our hypothesis are necessary, and would greatly assist in establishing clinical practices that reduce the amount of antibiotics inappropriately prescribed.
Damage accumulation and probability of kill for gun and target engagements
Authors: Chircop Paul A. , Kachoyan Bernard J.
Published: March 2018

Determination of the gunfire probability of kill against a target requires two parameters to be taken into consideration: the likelihood of hitting the target (susceptibility) and the conditional probability of kill given a hit (vulnerability). Two commonly used methods for calculating the latter probability are (1) treating each hit upon the target independently, and (2) setting an exact number of hits to obtain a target kill. Each of these methods contains an implicit assumption about the probability distribution of the number of hits‐to‐kill. Method (1) assumes that the most likely kill scenario occurs with exactly one hit, whereas (2) implies that achieving a precise number of hits always results in a kill. These methods can produce significant differences in the predicted gun effectiveness, even if the mean number of hits‐to‐kill for each distribution is the same. We therefore introduce a new modeling approach with a more general distribution for the number of hits‐to‐kill. The approach is configurable to various classes of damage mechanism and is able to match both methods (1) and (2) with a suitable choice of parameter. We use this new approach to explore the influence of various damage accumulation models on the predicted effectiveness of weapon‐target engagements.
Cerebral perfusion characteristics show differences in younger versus older children with sickle cell anaemia: Results from a multiple‐inflow‐time arterial spin labelling study
Authors: Kawadler Jamie M. , Hales Patrick W. , Barker Simon , Cox Timothy C. S. , Kirkham Fenella J. , Clark Chris A.
Published: March 2018

Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is associated with chronic anaemia and oxygen desaturation, which elevate cerebral blood flow (CBF) and increase the risk of neurocognitive complications. Arterial spin labelling (ASL) provides a methodology for measuring CBF non‐invasively; however, ASL techniques using only a single inflow time are not sufficient to fully characterize abnormal haemodynamic behaviour in SCA. This study investigated haemodynamic parameters from a multi‐inflow‐time ASL acquisition in younger (8–12 years) and older (13–18 years) children with SCA with and without silent cerebral infarction (SCI+/−) (n = 20 and 19 respectively, 6 and 4 SCI+ respectively) and healthy controls (n = 9 and 7 respectively). Compared with controls, CBF was elevated globally in both groups of patients. In the younger SCA patients, blood oxygen content was negatively correlated with CBF in the middle and posterior cerebral artery territories and significantly positively correlated with bolus arrival time (BAT) in the anterior and middle cerebral artery territories. In older children, SCA patients had significantly shorter BAT than healthy controls and there was a significant negative correlation between CBF and oxygen content only in the territory of the posterior cerebral artery, with a trend for a correlation in the anterior cerebral artery but no relationship for the middle cerebral artery territory. In the younger group, SCI+ patients had significantly higher CBF in the posterior cerebral artery territory (SCI+ mean = 92.78 ml/100 g/min; SCI− mean = 72.71 ml/100 g/min; F = 4.28, p = 0.04), but this no longer reached significance when two children with abnormal transcranial Doppler and one with haemoglobin SC disease were excluded, and there were no significant differences between patients with and without SCI in the older children. With age, there appears to be increasing disparity between patients and controls in terms of the relationship between CBF and oxygen content in the anterior circulation, potentially predicting the risk of acute and chronic compromise of brain tissue.
Oscillating gradient diffusion kurtosis imaging of normal and injured mouse brains
Authors: Wu Dan , Li Qiang , Northington Frances J. , Zhang Jiangyang
Published: March 2018

Recent advances in diffusion MRI employ multiple diffusion encoding schemes with varying diffusion direction, weighting, and diffusion time to investigate specific microstructural properties in biological tissues. In this study, we examined time‐dependent diffusion kurtosis contrast in adult mouse brains and in neonatal mouse brains after hypoxic–ischemic (HI) injury. In vivo diffusion kurtosis maps were acquired with a short diffusion time using an oscillating gradient spin echo (OGSE) sequence at 100 Hz and with a relatively long diffusion time (20 ms) using a pulsed gradient spin echo (PGSE) sequence. In the adult mouse brain, we found that the cortex and hippocampus showed larger differences between OGSE kurtosis and PGSE kurtosis than major white matter tracts. In neonatal mouse brains with unilateral HI injury, the OGSE kurtosis map overall provided stronger edema contrast than the PGSE kurtosis map, and the differences between OGSE and PGSE kurtosis measurements in the edema region reflected heterogeneity of injury. This is the first in vivo study that has demonstrated multi‐direction OGSE kurtosis contrasts in the mouse brain. Comparing PGSE and OGSE kurtosis measures may provide additional information on microstructural changes after ischemic stroke.
Nutrition Support Team Guide to Maternal Diet for the Human‐Milk‐Fed Infant
Authors: Copp Kathleen , DeFranco Emily A. , Kleiman Jeanne , Rogers Lynette K. , Morrow Ardythe L. , Valentine Christina J.
Published: March 2018

Background

Human milk feeding is encouraged for all infants; however, the mammary gland depends on maternal dietary intake of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, D, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), choline, and iodine. Nutrition support team knowledge of maternal feeding guidelines for these nutrient sources can therefore impact infant intake. We hypothesized that these key nutrients for lactation in the mother's diet would be less than the dietary guidelines in the United States.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of nutrition data collected during a randomized, controlled trial. Dietary records were analyzed from 16 mothers (13 with singleton and 3 with multiple births) completing the study. Mean dietary intakes of selected nutrients were calculated and compared with the current dietary reference intakes.

Results

Mean maternal dietary intake for singletons was significantly (P < .05) lower than the dietary reference intakes for (vitamin A (58%), vitamin D (44%), and choline (58%);) DHA comprised only 5% of the current expert recommendation. Based on singleton recommendations, mothers to twins consumed an adequate intake except for DHA.

Conclusions

Women providing breast milk for singleton preterm infants did not consume dietary reference intakes for key nutrients. Twin mothers’ diets were adequate except for DHA, but these guidelines are based on singleton pregnancies and remain poorly understood for twin needs. The nutrition support team can have a unique role in maternal dietary education to impact human milk nutrient delivery to the infant.
Effect of Vitamin D Level on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation
Authors: Obeid Fadi Abou , Yost Gardner , Bhat Geetha , Drever Erin , Tatooles Antone
Published: March 2018

Background

Vitamin D is an important hormone that regulates cardiac myocyte function. Low levels contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and have been implicated in immune function and the inflammatory cascade. Patients who undergo left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation are at risk for driveline infection, stroke, and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. We investigated whether serum 25‐hydroxy (25‐OH) vitamin D levels affect clinical outcomes after LVAD.

Methods

212 patients who underwent LVAD implantation between 2010 and 2015 were included. We measured preoperative 25‐OH vitamin D level and postoperative adverse events during the first year. Vitamin D level was classified into 3 categories: normal (>30 ng/mL), insufficient (20–30 ng/mL), and deficient (<20 ng/mL). Clinical outcomes in both insufficient and deficient categories were compared with the normal category.

Results

The odds ratio (OR) of being admitted ≥2 times was 2.46 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.067–5.769) for deficiency and 2.5 (95% CI: 0.970–6.443) for insufficiency. The OR of driveline infection was 6.185 (95% CI: 0.80–49.2; P = .07) for insufficiency and 11.467 (95% CI: 1.204–109.26; P = .03) for deficiency. Vitamin D levels were not associated with GI bleeding, length of stay, or stroke.

Conclusions

In patients with LVAD, both deficiency and insufficiency of 25‐OH vitamin D levels are independently associated with increased postoperative driveline infection risk and higher rate of readmission. Further trials are needed to confirm whether a repletion regimen could be a promising means of decreasing the risk for these postoperative adverse events.
Validation of Nutritional Risk Screening‐2002 in a Hospitalized Adult Population
Authors: Bolayir Başak , Arik Güneş , Yeşil Yusuf , Kuyumcu Mehmet Emin , Varan Hacer Doğan , Kara Özgür , Güngör Anil Evrim , Yavuz Burcu Balam , Cankurtaran Mustafa , Halil Meltem Gülhan
Published: March 2018

Background

Malnutrition in hospitalized patients is a serious problem and is associated with a number of adverse outcomes. The Nutritional Risk Screening‐2002 (NRS‐2002) tool was designed to identify patients at nutrition risk. The validation of NRS‐2002 compared with detailed clinical assessment of nutrition status was not studied before in hospitalized Turkish adults. The aim of this study is to determine validity, sensitivity, and specificity of the Turkish version of NRS‐2002 in a hospitalized adult population.

Methods

A total of 271 consecutive hospitalized patients aged >18 years admitted to surgical and medical wards of a university hospital in Turkey were included in this single‐center non interventional validity study. Assessment by geriatricians was used as the reference method. Two geriatricians experienced in the field of malnutrition interpreted the patients' nutrition status after the evaluation of several parameters. Patients were divided into “at nutrition risk” and “not at nutrition risk” groups by geriatricians. Concordance between the 2 geriatricians' clinical assessments was analyzed by κ statistics. Excellent concordance was found; therefore, the first geriatrician's decisions were accepted as the gold standard. The correlation of nutrition status of the patients, determined with NRS‐2002 and experienced geriatrician's decisions, was evaluated for the validity.

Results

NRS‐2002 has a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 92% when compared with professional assessment. The positive and negative predictive values were 87% and 92%, respectively. Testretest agreement was excellent as represented by a κ coefficient of 0.956.

Conclusions

NRS‐2002 is a valid tool to assess malnutrition risk in Turkish hospitalized patients.
Phase I study of vorinostat in combination with isotretinoin in patients with refractory/recurrent neuroblastoma: A new approaches to Neuroblastoma Therapy (NANT) trial
Authors: Pinto Navin , DuBois Steven G. , Marachelian Araz , Diede Scott J. , Taraseviciute Agne , Glade Bender Julia L. , Tsao‐Wei Denice , Groshen Susan G. , Reid Joel M. , Haas‐Kogan Daphne A. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Kang Min H. , Irwin Meredith S. , Macy Margaret E. , Villablanca Judith G. , Matthay Katherine K. , Park Julie R.
Published: March 2018

Background

Vorinostat combined with retinoids produces additive antitumor effects in preclinical studies of neuroblastoma. Higher systemic exposures of vorinostat than achieved in pediatric phase I trials with continuous daily dosing are necessary for in vivo increased histone acetylation and cytotoxic activity. We conducted a phase I trial in children with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of vorinostat on an interrupted schedule, escalating beyond the previously identified pediatric MTD.

Methods

Isotretinoin (cis‐13‐retinoic acid) 80 mg/m2/dose was administered by mouth twice daily on days 1–14 in combination with escalating doses of daily vorinostat up to 430 mg/m2/dose (days 1–4; 8–11) in each 28‐day cycle using the standard 3 + 3 design. Vorinostat pharmacokinetic testing and histone acetylation assays were performed.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients with refractory or relapsed neuroblastoma were enrolled and 28 were evaluable for dose escalation decisions. Median number of cycles completed was two (range 1–15); 11 patients received four or more cycles. Three patients experienced cycle 1 dose‐limiting toxicities. A total of 18 patients experienced grade 3/4 toxicities related to study therapy. The maximum intended dose of vorinostat (430 mg/m2/day, days 1–4; 8–11) was tolerable and led to increased histone acetylation in surrogate tissues when compared to lower doses of vorinostat (P = 0.009). No objective responses were seen.

Conclusions

Increased dose vorinostat (430 mg/m2/day) on an interrupted schedule is tolerable in combination with isotretinoin. This dose led to increased vorinostat exposures and demonstrated increased histone acetylation. Prolonged stable disease in patients with minimal residual disease warrants further investigation.
Influence of epoxidized linseed oil and sisal fibers on structure–property relationship of epoxy biocomposite
Authors: Sahoo Sushanta K , Khandelwal Vinay , Manik Gaurav
Published: March 2018

Epoxidized linseed oil (ELO) was synthesized and characterized for use as secondary component in bio‐based epoxy copolymer cured with bio‐renewable phenalkamine. Environment friendly biocomposites were developed using unidirectional sisal fibers as reinforcement in epoxy and epoxy‐ELO co‐polymer as matrices. Unidirectional sisal fibers in mat form were incorporated at [0/0] orientation within ELO‐modified epoxy in different composition (10, 20, and 30 phr of ELO) to ensure a proper balance between stiffness and toughness. Tensile, impact and flexural strength of the bio‐based epoxy composites improved significantly for 20, 30, and 10 phr of ELO respectively as compared with unmodified counterpart. The thermomechanical analysis of the biocomposites reveals improved storage modulus and damping on addition of about 10 and 20 phr of ELO bio‐resin. The morphological study shows good interfacial adhesion of matrix and fibers in bio‐based epoxy composite while a poor interface is observed in unmodified epoxy composite. This work paves the way for design and development of sustainable biocomposites of higher bio‐source content (up to 69%) for energy absorbing high strength demanding applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E2595–E2605, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and properties of polylactide/hydroxyapatite/polydopamine composites
Authors: Li Gang , Liu Xiaonan , Zhang Daohai , He Min , Qin Shuhao , Yu Jie
Published: March 2018

A series of poly(lactic acid)/hydroxyapatite/polydopamine (PLA/HA/PDA) composites were fabricated via soution blending and casting method using CH2Cl2 as solvents. The physicochemical properties of the resulting composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and Rheological analysis. Particularly, the in vitro degradation, hydrophilic of PLA/HA/PDA composites was systematically investigated. The influences of DA content on thermal stabilities, hydrophilic, and rheological behavior properties of composites were evaluated. The results showed that the addition of DA and HA not only improved the thermal stability of PLA, but also improved the hydrophilic of PLA‐based composites. The obtained PLA/HA/PDA composites may be a promising material for load‐bearing orthopedic implants. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:2256–2263, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Personality, Religion, and Politics: An Investigation in 33 Countries
Authors: Lee Kibeom , Ashton Michael C. , Griep Yannick , Edmonds Michael
Published: March 2018

The relations of HEXACO personality factors and religiosity with political orientation were examined in responses collected online from participants in 33 countries ( N = 141 492). Endorsement of a right–wing political orientation was negatively associated with Honesty–Humility and Openness to Experience and positively associated with religiosity. The strength of these associations varied widely across countries, such that the religiosity–politics correlations were stronger in more religious countries, whereas the personality–politics correlations were stronger in more developed countries. We also investigated the utility of the narrower traits (i.e. facets) that define the HEXACO factors. The Altruism facet (interstitially located between the Honesty–Humility, Agreeableness, and Emotionality axes) was negatively associated with right–wing political orientation, but religiosity was found to suppress this relationship, especially in religious countries. In addition to Altruism, the Greed Avoidance and Modesty facets of the Honesty–Humility factor and the Unconventionality and Aesthetic Appreciation facets of the Openness to Experience factor were also negatively associated with right–wing political orientation. We discuss the utility of examining facet–level personality traits, along with religiosity, in research on the individual difference correlates of political orientation. Copyright © 2018 European Association of Personality Psychology
The Use of Intensive Longitudinal Methods in Explanatory Personality Research
Authors: Sened Haran , Lazarus Gal , Gleason Marci E.J. , Rafaeli Eshkol , Fleeson William
Published: March 2018

Intensive longitudinal methods (ILMs), in which data are gathered from participants multiple times with short intervals (typically 24 hours or less apart), have gained considerable ground in personality research and may be useful in exploring causality in both classic personality trait models and more novel contextualized personality state models. We briefly review the various terms and uses of ILMs in various fields of psychology and present five main strategies that can help researchers infer causality in ILM studies. We discuss the use of temporal precedence to establish causality, through both lagged analyses and natural experiments; the use of external measures and peer reports to go beyond self–report data; delving deeper into repeated measures to derive new indices; the use of contextual factors occurring during the measurement period; and combining experimental methods and ILMs. These strategies are illustrated by examples from existing research and by new empirical findings from two dyadic daily diary studies ( N = 80 and N = 108 couples) and an experience sampling method study of personality states ( N = 52). We conclude by offering a short checklist for designing ILM studies with causality in mind and look at the applicability of these strategies in the intersection of personality psychology and other psychological research domains. Copyright © 2018 European Association of Personality Psychology
Association Between Medication Adherence and the Outcomes of Heart Failure
Authors: Hood Sarah R. , Giazzon Anthony J. , Seamon Gwen , Lane Kathleen A. , Wang Jane , Eckert George J. , Tu Wanzhu , Murray Michael D.
Published: March 2018

Background

Previous studies of heart failure patients demonstrated an association between cardiovascular medication adherence and hospitalizations or a composite end point of hospitalization and death. Few studies have assessed the impact of treatment adherence within large general medical populations that distinguish the health outcomes of emergency department visits, hospitalization, and death.

Objective

To determine the association of incremental cardiovascular medication adherence on emergency department visits, hospitalization, and death in adult heart failure patients in Indiana.

Design

Retrospective cohort study conducted using electronic health record data from the statewide Indiana Network for Patient Care between 2004 and 2009.

Methods

Patients were at least 18 years of age with a diagnosis of heart failure and prescribed at least one cardiovascular medication for heart failure. Adherence was measured as the proportion of days covered (PDC) using pharmacy transaction data. Clinical end points included emergency department visits, hospital admissions, length of hospital stay, and mortality. Generalized linear models were used to determine the effect of a 10% increase in PDC on clinical end points adjusting for age, sex, race, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and medications.

Results

Electronic health records were available for 55,312 patients (mean age ± standard deviation 68 ± 16 yrs; 54% women; 65% white). Mean PDC for all heart failure medications was 63% ± 23%. For every 10% increase in PDC, emergency department visits decreased 11% (rate ratio [RR] 0.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89–0.89), hospital admissions decreased 6% (RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.94–0.94), total length of hospital stay decreased 1% (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.99–1.00), and all‐cause mortality decreased 9% (odds ratio 0.91; 95% CI 0.90–0.92).

Conclusion

Incremental medication adherence was associated with reductions in emergency department visits, hospital admissions, length of hospital stay, and all‐cause mortality.
Application of thermography for thermoplastic waveguide fabrication
Authors: Evert Robert , Zaremba Daniel , Jakobs Florian , Caspary Reinhard , Kowalsky Wolfgang , Johannes Hans‐Hermann
Published: March 2018

The production of short polymer optical fibers from small material batches is valuable for materials research, especially in the investigation of copolymers. A two‐step fiber drawing process is usually used for this purpose. The drawing temperature of the individual materials is an important parameter in the process. Temperature measurements using contactless methods are preferred because they enable online monitoring and do not affect the drawing process. Such measurements can be carried out with a pyrometer, which allows the measurement of a wide range of temperatures but requires a precise adjustment of the spot to the core of the preform. To circumvent this limitation, a thermographic camera with a resolution of 134 µm per pixel in the heating zone is used. The measurement range 0–250 °C is suitable for the usual drawing conditions. The device is installed outside the resistive heating furnace. The absolute temperature is obtained by calibrating the sensor to the beam path and the material emission properties. Different materials, shapes and thicknesses lead to variations in these parameters. In this work, an analysis of the temperature calibration for poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(styrene) and the copolymers poly[styrene‐co‐(isobornyl methacrylate)] and poly[(methyl methacrylate)‐co‐(isobornyl methacrylate)] is presented. These are all thermoplastic polymers and may be used for the fabrication of polymer optical fibers. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Langmuir and Langmuir–Blodgett films of low‐bandgap polymers
Authors: Braunger Maria L , da Silva Edilene Assunção , Awada Hussein , de Oliveira Vinícius JR , Silva Hugo Santos , Bégué Didier , Hiorns Roger C , Lartigau‐Dagron Christine , de Almeida Olivati Clarissa
Published: March 2018

Low‐bandgap conjugated polymers have provided a considerable increase in organic photovoltaic efficiencies, however, an understanding of class‐specific nanostructures, necessary to further improve device qualities, remains scarce. Their self‐assembly and associated electronic behaviors in Langmuir−Blodgett (LB) films are used here to provide relationships specific to each polymer, clarifying their structure−property characteristics. The behavior of two low‐bandgap polymers based on cyclopentadithiophene (PCPDTBT) and dithienosilole (Si‐PCPDTBT) units in the Langmuir trough were investigated and it is shown that it is possible to fabricate nanostructured films of low‐bandgap polymers on solid substrates with the LB deposition technique. The polymers were mixed with amphiphilic molecules at well‐defined concentrations to improve the formation of the LB films. The polymers were also deposited by drop‐casting and LB techniques onto interdigitated electrodes to evaluate their electrical properties, and the LB films were characterized for their optical and morphological properties. It was found that both LB and drop‐cast films of PCPDTBT showed higher electrical conductivities than those of Si‐PCPDTBT. Importantly, LB films resulted in higher electrical conductivities – by an order of magnitude − compared to their equivalent mixtures with stearic acid in drop‐cast films, although drop‐cast films without stearic acid gave higher conductivities. This fine‐tuning of the molecular architectures of the films is thus demonstrated to directly affect the physical properties and may lead to an improvement in device efficiencies in future applications. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Exploring electrophysiological correlates of social cognition in subclinical schizotypy
Authors: Davidson Charlie Andrew , Kiat John E. , Tarasenko Melissa , Ritchie A. Jocelyn , Molfese Dennis , Spaulding William D.
Published: March 2018

Impairments in social cognition and associated abnormalities in brain function are well documented in psychotic disorders. They may represent neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities and may therefore be present in less severe or even subclinical conditions of the schizophrenia spectrum, such as schizotypy. Schizotypy has features highly suggestive of social cognitive impairments, but little is known about possible related abnormalities of brain function. This exploratory pilot study examines electrophysiological event‐related potentials (ERPs) implicated in schizophrenia, in 23 undergraduates with a range of subclinical schizotypal characteristics. ERPs were recorded in response to emotional face stimuli in an experimental paradigm designed to assess very early stages of social stimulus processing. Three ERPs were assessed, P100, N170 and P300. P100 and P300 were found to be related to multiple schizotypal features, but N170 was not. The results support occurrence of social cognitive impairments linked to abnormal brain function across the schizophrenia spectrum. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictors of anxiety and depression 2 years following treatment in uveal melanoma survivors
Authors: Brown Stephen L. , Hope‐Stone Laura , Heimann Heinrich , Damato Bertil , Salmon Peter
Published: March 2018

Objective

We examined the role of posttreatment symptoms and functional problems and of worry about recurrent disease (WREC) in predicting probable anxiety and depression cases 24 months after diagnosis in survivors of posterior uveal melanoma. We examined whether WREC mediates links between symptoms, functional problems, and probable anxiety and depression cases.

Methods

Prospective cohort study of 261 treated uveal melanoma survivors 6, 12, and 24 months after diagnosis. Hierarchical logistic regression analyses predicting anxiety and depression 24 months after diagnosis identified by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale cutoff scores. Symptoms, functional problems, and WREC 6‐month posttreatment were entered into the analyses as predictors, then the same variables at 12 months. We controlled anxiety or depression at 6 and 12 months and chromosome 3 status, which accurately predicts 10‐year survival. Mediation of links between 6‐month symptoms and functional problems and 24‐month anxiety and depression by 12‐month WREC was tested.

Results

Anxiety caseness at 24 months was predicted by 6‐month ocular irritation, headache, and functional problems and 12‐month WREC. Depression caseness at 24 months was predicted by 6‐month headache and functional problems. Worry about recurrent disease at 12 months mediated prediction of anxiety caseness by 6‐month symptoms and functional problems. Chromosome 3 status predicted neither anxiety nor depression.

Conclusions

Survivors reporting symptoms, functional problems, and WREC should be monitored for anxiety and depression. Appropriate reassurance that symptoms do not signify future disease might help prevent anxiety.
Characterization of surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) based on PI/Al2O3 nanocomposite
Authors: Dong‐liang Bian , Yun Wu , Min Jia
Published: March 2018

Surface dielectric barrier discharge (SDBD) is widely applied in the field of active flow control. Its carrier is usually called plasma actuator (PA). However, it has a key drawback of short discharge lifetime due to the dielectric degradation under plasma processing. In this paper, polyimide (PI) film incorporated with Al2O3 nanoparticles is fabricated and used as dielectric of PA. Dielectric material, plasma, surface temperature, discharge characteristics as well as its performance are experimentally studied and compared with those of a conventional pure PI based control actuator. The results show that at sine peak to peak voltage of 8 kV and 6 kHz frequency, the force efficiency of new designed actuator is 2.5 times higher than that of the control actuator after 30 h discharge. Besides, the discharge lifetime is also 3.2 times as long. In the discharge region, the surface of the control actuator appears serious dielectric degradation, which is accompanied by heat accumulation as well as an increase of gas temperature and electron temperature. While for the new actuator, after selective plasma etching, the inorganic Al2O3 nanoparticles can continuously resist the discharge plasma and contributes to effective heat dissipation and more stable plasma parameters.
An Analytical Method for Assessing Optimal Storage Conditions of Gingival Crevicular Fluid and Disclosing a Peptide Biomarker Signature of Gingivitis by MALDI‐TOF MS
Authors: Preianò Mariaimmacolata , Maggisano Giuseppina , Murfuni Maria Stella , Villella Chiara , Pelaia Corrado , Montalcini Tiziana , Lombardo Nicola , Pelaia Girolamo , Savino Rocco , Terracciano Rosa
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) is an important diagnostic source of biomarkers for both periodontitis and gingivitis. However, GCF peptide signature may change depending on factors such as handling and storage. Here we propose a standardized methodology for GCF analysis by MALDI‐TOF/TOF‐MS in order to distinguish a characteristic peptide signature of gingivitis.

Experimental design

The best storage/handling conditions which may ensure the stability of the endogenous peptidome in GCF is determined and then MALDI‐TOF MS comparative analysis is performed. Reproducible GCF MALDI‐TOF signatures between two groups of gingivitis (n = 10) and healthy (n = 10) subjects are compared.

Results

A pattern of five peptides resulted differentially expressed between gingivitis and healthy groups. Interestingly, among these biomarkers the C‐terminal fragment of alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT) namely C‐36 peptide and two different PTMs of the full‐length S100A9 protein are found.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

The method described provides a rapid comparative analysis of GCF signatures between periodontally healthy and gingivitis subjects. A pattern based on the expression of endogenous peptides and their PTMs is identified in GCF as putative biomarkers of gingivitis. These findings improve the knowledge of the inflammatory, immune, and structural substrates which might have a key role in the pathogenesis of gingivitis.
A New Method for Predicting the Detonation Velocity of Explosives with Micrometer Aluminum Powders
Authors: Li Xing‐Han , Zhao Feng , Qin Jin‐Cheng , Pei Hong‐Bo
Published: March 2018

In the present study we carried out a thermodynamic analysis for explosives with micrometer aluminum (Al) powders, and found that the acceleration of Al powders and heat exchange between Al powders and the detonation products may have a significant influence on the detonation velocity. Relying on velocity disequilibrium between the two phases at the C−J plane and heat absorption of inert Al powders in the detonation zone, this paper has introduced a new method to study the detonation velocity of explosives with micrometer Al additives. The method is a closed system of algebraic equations and the detonation velocity can be solved efficiently by numerical codes. The detonation velocities predicted by the new method are in excellent agreement with experimental data of RDX‐, HMX‐, NM‐ and TNT‐based aluminized explosives, and the heat exchange has been proved significant on the detonation velocity, while the acceleration of Al powders is of little effect.