bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Adsorption in the Electrocatalysis of Hydrazine on Platinum Electrodes
Authors: Gisbert Rubén , Boronat‐González Ana , Feliu Juan M. , Herrero Enrique
Published: February 2017

Hydrazine oxidation on platinum single‐crystal electrodes has been studied in acidic solution containing different electrolytes. It will be shown that the hydrazinium cation is adsorbed on platinum through an anodic reaction. Moreover, in the presence of chloride, this adsorption process is favored owing to the formation of an ionic pair with adsorbed chloride. In spite of the enhanced adsorption of hydrazine species in the presence of chloride, higher overpotentials are measured in these media, which reveals that the oxidation of hydrazine not only requires adsorption, but also that the adsorption mode of the species facilitates the formation of the transition state to yield the final product.
Efficient Annihilation Electrochemiluminescence of Cationic Helicene Luminophores
Authors: Li Haidong , Voci Silvia , Wallabregue Antoine , Adam Catherine , Labrador Geraldine M. , Duwald Romain , Hernández Delgado Irene , Pascal Simon , Bosson Johann , Lacour Jérôme , Bouffier Laurent , Sojic Neso
Published: February 2017

The electrochemistry and annihilation electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of a series of chiral cationic helicene luminophores containing various substituents were investigated in acetonitrile solvent. The electrochemical characterization evidenced a systematic reversible reduction of cationic derivatives, whereas the oxidation could be reversible or not, depending on the nature of the core heteroatoms within the structure as well as the functional‐group appendages. One of the key parameters governing the ECL intensity is, indeed, the formal redox potentials for the electrogeneration of the neutral radical and dication radical species, which will undergo the annihilation reaction. On that basis, a thermodynamic wall of efficiency was proposed in the case of ECL annihilation pathway to predict the formation efficiency of the emitting excited state and, eventually, the light emission‘s strength. This very simple wall is constructed by plotting the difference of formal potentials in function of the fluorescence wavelength, thus delimiting two domains where ECL is thermodynamically possible or unfavorable.
Design of Organic Macrocycle‐Modified Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Skorjanc Tina , Benyettou Farah , Olsen John‐Carl , Trabolsi Ali
Published: February 2017

Paul Ehrlich's vision of a “magic bullet” cure for disease inspires the modern design of nanocarriers whose purpose is to deliver drug cargo to specific sites in the body while circumventing endogenous immunological clearance mechanisms. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have emerged as particularly promising nanocarriers because of their biodegradability, ability to be guided magnetically to sites of pathology, mediation of hyperthermic therapy, and imaging capabilities. In this review, we focus on the design and drug‐delivery aspects of IONPs coated with organic macrocycles (crown ethers, cyclodextrins, calix[n]arenes, cucurbit[n]urils, or pillar[n]arenes), which, by means of reversible complexation, allow for the convenient loading and release of drug molecules. Macrocycles can be attached to IONPs indirectly or directly. Indirect attachment requires the use of small organic linking molecules or conjugation to shell materials. Direct attachment requires neither. We discuss in detail drug release from the macrocycles, highlighting mechanisms that depend on external stimuli such as changes in pH, the competitive binding of ions or small molecules, or the application of ultrasound or electromagnetic radiation.
Rational Design of Advanced Photosensitizers Based on Orthogonal BODIPY Dimers to Finely Modulate Singlet Oxygen Generation
Authors: Epelde‐Elezcano Nerea , Palao Eduardo , Manzano Hegoi , Prieto‐Castañeda Alejandro , Agarrabeitia Antonia R. , Tabero Andrea , Villanueva Angeles , de la Moya Santiago , López‐Arbeloa Íñigo , Martínez‐Martínez Virginia , Ortiz María J.
Published: February 2017

The synthesis, photophysical characterization, and modeling of a new library of halogen‐free photosensitizers (PS) based on orthogonal boron dipyrromethene (BODIPY) dimers are reported. Herein we establish key structural factors in order to enhance singlet oxygen generation by judiciously choosing the substitution patterns according to key electronic effects and synthetic accessibility factors. The photosensitization mechanism of orthogonal BODIPY dimers is demonstrated to be strongly related to their intrinsic intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) character through the spin‐orbit charge‐transfer intersystem crossing (SOCT‐ISC) mechanism. Thus, singlet oxygen generation can be effectively modulated through the solvent polarity and the presence of electron‐donating or withdrawing groups in one of the BODIPY units. The photodynamic therapy (PDT) activity is demonstrated by in vitro experiments, showing that selected photosensitizers are efficiently internalized into HeLa cells, exhibiting low dark toxicity and high phototoxicity, even at low PS concentration (0.05–5×10−6 m).
Bifunctional Ag@SiO2/Au Nanoparticles for Probing Sequential Catalytic Reactions by Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Wu Yiren , Su Dong , Qin Dong
Published: February 2017

We report the synthesis of bifunctional Ag@SiO2/Au nanoparticles with an “islands in the sea” configuration by titrating HAuCl4 solution into an aqueous suspension of Ag@SiO2 core–shell nanocubes in the presence of NaOH, ascorbic acid, and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) at pH 11.9. The NaOH plays an essential role in generating small pores in the SiO2 shell in situ, followed by the epitaxial deposition of Au from the Ag surface through the pores, leading to the formation of Au islands (6–12 nm in size) immersed in a SiO2 sea. By controlling the amount of HAuCl4 titrated into the reaction system, the Au islands can be made to pass through and protrude from the SiO2 shell, embracing catalytic activity toward the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol by NaBH4. While the Ag in the core provides a strong surface‐enhanced Raman scattering activity, the SiO2 sea helps maintain the Au component as compact, isolated, and stabilized islands. The Ag@SiO2/Au nanoparticles can serve as a bifunctional probe to monitor the stepwise Au‐catalyzed reduction of 4‐nitrothiophenol to 4‐aminothiophenol by NaBH4 and Ag‐catalyzed oxidation of 4‐aminothiophenol to trans‐4,4′‐dimercaptoazobenzene by the O2 from air in the same reaction system.
Synthesis of Cuboctahedral CeO2 Nanoclusters and Their Assembly into Cuboid Nanoparticles by Oriented Attachment
Authors: Maya‐Johnson Santiago , Gracia Lourdes , Longo Elson , Andres Juan , Leite Edson R.
Published: February 2017

Here, we describe a simple approach to control the oriented attachment process through selective ligand scavenging from the {100} facets of CeO2 nanoclusters. Aggregates of these nanoclusters smaller than 10 nm with controlled shapes and exposed facets were obtained. For the synthesis of the cuboctahedral CeO2 nanoclusters, we developed a solvent‐controlled synthesis approach based on a non‐hydrolytic sol–gel process and used an ester aminolysis reaction to control ligand scavenging from the {100} facets. First‐principle calculations allowed us to understand and interpret, at the atomic level, the effects of shape control on the synthesis. Fine‐tuning of the desired morphologies can be achieved by controlling the values of the surface energies, which leads to the formation of morphologies that the classic growth process does not allow.
Virus Hunting: Discovery of New Episomal Circular Viruses by Rolling Circle Techniques
Authors: Vanmechelen Bert , Rector Annabel , Maes Piet
Published: February 2017

Many methods for the discovery of novel viruses are based on amplification of the virus using consensus or degenerate PCR primers. A downside of this approach is that it requires prior knowledge of the viral nucleotide sequence to be applicable. Presented in this unit is a method for the sequence‐independent amplification of circular viral genomes that is based on the rolling‐circle mechanism used by certain viruses in their natural replication cycle. The amplification of the virus of interest is coupled to the isolation of the viral genome by gel extraction following a restriction digestion. Once isolated, the sequence of the viral genome can be determined by nanopore sequencing, a rapid and inexpensive next‐generation sequencing technology that generates long reads in real time. The method described in this unit was originally developed for the discovery of papillomaviruses, but can be used for the identification of all types of circular DNA viruses. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Toward inventory‐based estimates of soil organic carbon in forests of the United States
Authors: Domke G. M. , Perry C. H. , Walters B. F. , Nave L. E. , Woodall C. W. , Swanston C. W.
Published: February 2017

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is the largest terrestrial carbon (C) sink on Earth; this pool plays a critical role in ecosystem processes and climate change. Given the cost and time required to measure SOC, and particularly changes in SOC, many signatory nations to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change report estimates of SOC stocks and stock changes using default values from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change or country‐specific models. In the United States, SOC in forests is monitored by the national forest inventory (NFI) conducted by the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. The FIA program has been consistently measuring soil attributes as part of the NFI since 2001 and has amassed an extensive inventory of SOC in forest land in the conterminous United States and southeast and southcentral coastal Alaska. That said, the FIA program has been using country‐specific predictions of SOC based, in part, upon a model using SOC estimates from the State Soil Geographic (STATSGO) database compiled by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Estimates obtained from the STATSGO database are averages over large map units and are not expected to provide accurate estimates for specific locations, e.g., NFI plots. To improve the accuracy of SOC estimates in U.S. forests, NFI SOC observations were used for the first time to predict SOC density to a depth of 100 cm for all forested NFI plots. Incorporating soil‐forming factors along with observations of SOC into a new estimation framework resulted in a 75% (48 ± 0.78 Mg/ha) increase in SOC densities nationally. This substantially increases the contribution of the SOC pool, from approximately 44% (17 Pg) of the total forest ecosystem C stocks to 56% (28 Pg), in the forest C budget of the United States.
N‐Sulfonylcarboxamide as an Oxidizing Directing Group for Ruthenium‐Catalyzed C–H Activation/Annulation
Authors: Petrova Elina , Rasina Dace , Jirgensons Aigars
Published: February 2017

N‐Sulfonylcarboxamides can act as both a directing group for C–H activation and an internal oxidant in the Ru‐catalyzed annulation reaction with alkynes to give isoquinolones. Of all of the N‐sulfonylcarboxamides that were studied, the N‐(2,6‐difluorophenyl)sulfonamide derivatives were found to be the most efficient and led to the formation of an unstable sulfinate byproduct that decomposed into 1,3‐difluorobenzene under the reaction conditions. The described isoquinolone synthesis provides an alternative to the currently known traceless annulations of hydroxamic acid and sulfoximine derivatives.
Production and kinetic transesterification of biodiesel from yellow grease with dimethyl carbonate using methanesulfonic acid as a catalyst
Authors: Panchal Balaji M. , Deshmukh Sanjay A. , Sharma Munish R.
Published: February 2017

The production of biodiesel from yellow grease containing a low level of free fatty acids was investigated in this study. The kinetic transesterification of a molar ratio of (1:5) yellow grease to dimethyl carbonate was investigated. The experiments were conducted under various kinetic parameters, such as the use of a CH4O3S catalyst, and the effect of the reaction temperature (70°C), time (45 min) and stirring rate (125 rpm) were studied to determine the best possible kinetic conditions. A maximum yellow grease biodiesel yield of 94% was obtained. The properties of the biodiesel, such as the kinematic viscosity at 40°C, specific gravity at 25°C, flash point, pour point, cloud point, and copper strip corrosion level, were tested and found to conform to the biodiesel quality standards ASTM D6751 – 02. This research will provide a highly efficient, cost‐effective, eco‐friendly, and simplified process for one‐step biodiesel production from yellow grease. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 802–807, 2017
Sexual counselling for treating or preventing sexual dysfunction in women living with female genital mutilation: A systematic review
Authors: Okomo Uduak , Ogugbue Miriam , Inyang Elizabeth , Meremikwu Martin M.
Published: February 2017

Background

Female sexual dysfunction is the persistent or recurring decrease in sexual desire or arousal, the difficulty or inability to achieve an orgasm, and/or the feeling of pain during sexual intercourse. Impaired sexual function can occur with all types of female genital mutilation (FGM) owing to the structural changes, pain, or traumatic memories associated with the procedure.

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review of randomized and nonrandomized studies into the effects of sexual counseling with or without genital lubricants on the sexual function of women living with FGM.

Search strategy

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, African Index Medicus, SCOPUS, LILACS, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, and other databases were searched to August 2015. The reference lists of retrieved studies were checked for reports of additional studies, and lead authors contacted for additional data.

Selection criteria

Studies of girls and women living with any type of FGM who received counselling interventions for sexual dysfunction were included.

Data collection and analysis

No relevant studies that addressed the objective of the review were identified.

Conclusions

Despite a comprehensive search, the authors could not find evidence of the effects of sexual counseling on the sexual function of women living with FGM. Studies assessing this intervention are needed.

PROSPERO registration

CRD42015024593.
Psychological and counselling interventions for female genital mutilation
Authors: Smith Helen , Stein Karin
Published: February 2017

Women and girls living with female genital mutilation (FGM) are more likely to experience psychological problems than women without FGM. As well as psychological support, this population may need additional care when seeking surgical interventions to correct complications of FGM. Recent WHO guidelines recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for women and girls experiencing anxiety disorders, depression, or post‐traumatic stress disorder. The guidelines also suggest that preoperative counselling for deinfibulation, and psychological support alongside surgical interventions, can help women manage the physiological and psychological changes following surgery. This synthesis summarizes evidence on women's values and preferences, and the context and conditions that may be required to provide psychological and counselling interventions. Understanding women's views, their own ways of coping, as well social and cultural factors that influence women's mental well‐being, may help identify the types of interventions this population needs at different times and stages of their lives.
Health information interventions for female genital mutilation
Authors: Smith Helen , Stein Karin
Published: February 2017

Providing information and education to women and girls living with female genital mutilation (FGM) could be an important influence on their healthcare‐seeking behavior. Healthcare providers also need adequate knowledge and skills to provide good quality care to this population. Recent WHO guidelines on managing health complications from FGM contain best practice statements for health education and information interventions for women and providers. This qualitative evidence synthesis summarizes the values and preferences of girls and women living with FGM, and healthcare providers, together with other evidence on the context and conditions of these interventions. The synthesis highlights that healthcare providers lack skills and training to manage women, and women are concerned about the lack of discussion about FGM with providers. There is a need for more training for providers, and further research to understand how health information interventions may be perceived or experienced by women living with FGM in different contexts.
Mechanisms of charge transfer in human copper ATPases ATP7A and ATP7B
Authors: Tadini‐Buoninsegni Francesco , Smeazzetto Serena
Published: February 2017

ATP7A and ATP7B are Cu+‐transporting ATPases of subclass IB and play a fundamental role in intracellular copper homeostasis. ATP7A/B transfer Cu+ ions across the membrane from delivery to acceptor proteins without establishing a free Cu+ gradient. Transfer of copper across the membrane is coupled to ATP hydrolysis. Current measurements on solid supported membranes (SSM) were performed to investigate the mechanism of copper‐related charge transfer across ATP7A and ATP7B. SSM measurements demonstrated that electrogenic copper displacement occurs within ATP7A/B following addition of ATP and formation of the phosphorylated intermediate. Comparison of the time constants for cation displacement in ATP7A/B and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase is consistent with the slower phosphoenzyme formation in copper ATPases. Moreover, ATP‐dependent copper transfer in ATP7A/B is not affected by varying the pH, suggesting that net proton counter‐transport may not occur in copper ATPases. Platinum anticancer drugs activate ATP7A/B and are subjected to ATP‐dependent vectorial displacement with a mechanism analogous to that of copper. © 2016 IUBMB Life, 69(4):218–225, 2017
Pancreatic impairment and Igf2 hypermethylation induced by developmental exposure to bisphenol A can be counteracted by maternal folate supplementation
Authors: Mao Zhenxing , Xia Wei , Huo Wenqian , Zheng Tongzhang , Bassig Bryan A. , Chang Huailong , Chen Tian , Li Feie , Pan Yunxin , Peng Yang , Li Yuanyuan , Xu Shunqing
Published: February 2017

Increasing evidence indicates that bisphenol A (BPA), a widely manufactured environmental pollutant, can induce changes in DNA methylation paatterns, which is a potential mechanism linking this environmental exposure to disease development. We investigated the influence of developmental exposure to BPA on pancreatic DNA methylation patterns and whether maternal folate supplementation can modify the epigenetic status and pancreatic impairment induced by BPA. Our results showed that maternal dietary folate supplementation in rats exposed to BPA counteracted the observed BPA‐induced pancreatic impairments in the offspring, which included disrupted insulin secretion and glucose intolerance, and impaired morphology and ultrastructure of β cells. Moreover, these pancreatic dysfunctions were shown to be associated with low expression and DNA hypermethylation of insulin‐like growth factor‐2 (Igf2) in islets induced by exposure to BPA during the developmental period. Importantly, maternal dietary folate supplementation was demonstrated to negate this Igf2 DNA hypermethylation in the offspring, which was consistent with the upregulation of Igf2 expression. Overall, our results suggest that early developmental exposure to BPA alters the DNA methylation of Igf2, that these altered methylation patterns are associated with impaired β‐cell function in the offspring and that these effects can be counteracted by maternal folate supplementation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Holographic optical tweezers‐based in vivo manipulations in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Hörner Florian , Meissner Robert , Polali Sruthi , Pfeiffer Jana , Betz Timo , Denz Cornelia , Raz Erez
Published: February 2017

Understanding embryonic development requires the characterization of the forces and the mechanical features that shape cells and tissues within the organism. In addition, experimental application of forces on cells and altering cell and organelle shape allows determining the role such forces play in morphogenesis. Here, we present a holographic optical tweezers‐based new microscopic platform for in vivo applications in the context of a developing vertebrate embryo that unlike currently used setups allows simultaneous trapping of multiple objects and rapid comparisons of viscoelastic properties in different locations. This non‐invasive technique facilitates a dynamic analysis of mechanical properties of cells and tissues without intervening with embryonic development. We demonstrate the application of this platform for manipulating organelle shape and for characterizing the mechanobiological properties of cells in live zebrafish embryos. The method of holographic optical tweezers as described here is of general interest and can be easily transferred to studying a range of developmental processes in zebrafish, thereby establishing a versatile platform for similar investigations in other organisms.

Fluorescent beads injected into zebrafish embryos at 1‐cell stage are maintained within the embryos and do not affect their development as observed in the presented 1‐day old embryo.

magnified image

Fluorescent beads injected into zebrafish embryos at 1‐cell stage are maintained within the embryos and do not affect their development as observed in the presented 1‐day old embryo.
Real‐time Raman and SRS imaging of living human macrophages reveals cell‐to‐cell heterogeneity and dynamics of lipid uptake
Authors: Stiebing Clara , Meyer Tobias , Rimke Ingo , Matthäus Christian , Schmitt Michael , Lorkowski Stefan , Popp Jürgen
Published: February 2017

Monitoring living cells in real‐time is important in order to unravel complex dynamic processes in life sciences. In particular the dynamics of initiation and progression of degenerative diseases is intensely studied. In atherosclerosis the thickening of arterial walls is related to high lipid levels in the blood stream, which trigger the lipid uptake and formation of droplets as neutral lipid reservoirs in macrophages in the arterial wall. Unregulated lipid uptake finally results in foam cell formation, which is a hallmark of atherosclerosis. In previous studies, the uptake and storage of different fatty acids was monitored by measuring fixed cells. Commonly employed fluorescence staining protocols are often error prone because of cytotoxicity and unspecific fluorescence backgrounds. By following living cells with Raman spectroscopic imaging, lipid uptake of macrophages was studied with real‐time data acquisition. Isotopic labeling using deuterated palmitic acid has been combined with spontaneous and stimulated Raman imaging to investigate the dynamic process of fatty acid storage in human macrophages for incubation times from 45 min to 37 h. Striking heterogeneity in the uptake rate and the total concentration of deuterated palmitic acid covering two orders of magnitude is detected in single as well as ensembles of cultured human macrophages.

SRS signal of deuterated palmitic acid measured at the CD vibration band after incorporation into living macrophages.

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SRS signal of deuterated palmitic acid measured at the CD vibration band after incorporation into living macrophages.
Bisphosphonate‐functionalized poly(β‐amino ester) network polymers
Authors: Guven Melek Naz , Seckin Altuncu Merve , Demir Duman Fatma , Eren Tugce Nur , Yagci Acar Havva , Avci Duygu
Published: February 2017

Three novel bisphosphonate‐functionalized secondary diamines are synthesized and incorporated into poly(β‐amino ester)s (PBAEs) to investigate the effects of bisphosphonates on biodegradation and toxicity of PBAE polymer networks. These three novel amines, BPA1, BPA2, and BPA3, were prepared from the reactions of 1,4‐butanediamine, 1,6‐hexanediamine, or 4,9‐dioxa‐1,12‐dodecanediamine with tetraethyl vinylidene bisphosphonate, respectively. The PBAE macromers were obtained from the aza‐Michael addition reaction of these amines to 1,6‐hexane diol diacrylate (HDDA) and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA, Mn = 575) and photopolymerized to produce biodegradable gels. These gels with different chemistries exhibited similar degradation behavior with mass loss of 53–73% within 24 h, indicating that degradation is mostly governed by the bisphosphonate group. Based on the in vitro cytotoxicity evaluation against NIH 3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cells, the degradation products do not exhibit significant toxicity in most cases. It was also shown that PBAE macromers can be used as cross‐linkers for the synthesis of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate hydrogels, conferring small and customizable degradation rates upon them. The materials reported have potential to be used as nontoxic degradable biomaterials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 1412–1421, 2017.
Influence of key physicochemical and hydrodynamic specifications of three packing materials on both performance and bacterial community structure of gas‐biofilters
Authors: Malhautier Luc , Gadal‐Mawart Aurélie , Rocher Janick , Renner Christophe , Fanlo Jean‐Louis
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Different physical and biological parameters are involved in the successful running of gas biofilters. The nature of the packing material has a great impact on service life of the biofilter, removal performances, microbial growth and operational costs. The aim of this study is then to gain insight to the influence of key physicochemical (pH) and hydrodynamic (mean residence time) specifications of three packing materials (lava rock, residuals of waste treatment and coco fibres) on both elimination efficiency of gaseous contaminants (dimethylsulfide, 3‐methyl‐butyraldehyde and methyl isobutyl ketone) and structure of the total bacterial community within non‐inoculated and seeded biofilters.

RESULTS

At steady‐state, both material characteristics have no impact on biodegradation activity profiles as non‐inoculated biofilters exhibited the same stratification pattern of elimination capacity, with better and faster elimination of oxygenated compounds compared with dimethylsulfide. Nevertheless, pH and mean residence time seem to influence the elimination capacity of the biofilters as alkaline pH value improved contaminants removal and higher abatement values are observed for biofilters packed with a granular material. Moreover, both characteristics would induce the establishment of a specific structure of the total microbial community for each material.

CONCLUSION

This study did not aim to provide a single general protocol for optimal packing material choice, but presented a systemic guideline to compare materials characteristics (pH, hydrodynamic parameters, shape), assessing their impact on biofilter performances, filter bed depth required for pollutants biodegradation and microbial community organization. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Perception of point‐of‐care ultrasound performed by emergency medicine physicians
Authors: Hansen Whitney , Mitchell Carl E. , Bhattarai Bikash , Ayutyanont Napatkamon , Stowell Jeffrey R.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) is integral to the practice of emergency medicine (EM). Furthermore, EM‐performed POCUS (EM‐POCUS) offers consultants the opportunity to avoid delays in care due to wait times for confirmatory imaging studies. This study is the first to describe the perception of POCUS to consulting services at a single institution where EM‐POCUS is routinely performed.

Methods

This study was conducted as a survey distributed to residents from consultant specialties (internal medicine [IM], general surgery [GS], and obstetrics and gynecology [OB‐GYN]). Survey questions aimed to describe consultant's confidence and utilization of EM‐POCUS. Responses were evaluated using descriptive and comparative analysis.

Results

Survey responses were obtained from 27 IM (87.1%), 13 GS (100%), and 21 OB‐GYN (100%) respondents. Among consultant specialties, 47.5% of respondents reported comfort with EM‐POCUS. IM (81.5%) providers were significantly more likely to trust EM‐POCUS as compared with OB‐GYN (28.6%) and GS (7.7%) providers (p < 0.001). Confidence was further limited when consultants were unable to view POCUS images (23.8% for OB‐GYN, 15.4% for GS, 55.6% for IM), but improved with EM provider level of POCUS experience and training (81% for OB‐GYN, 76.9% for GS, 77.8% for IM). Overall, consultant utilization of EM‐POCUS was 68.9%.

Conclusions

Study respondents demonstrated limited confidence and utilization of EM‐POCUS in this institution. Increased understanding of EM‐POCUS training and expanded image availability may improve consultant utilization. Future studies, performed nationally, should further describe the value of EM‐POCUS to consultant services. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:408–415, 2017
Intracellular pH measured by 31P‐MR‐spectroscopy might predict site of progression in recurrent glioblastoma under antiangiogenic therapy
Authors: Wenger Katharina J. , Hattingen Elke , Franz Kea , Steinbach Joachim P. , Bähr Oliver , Pilatus Ulrich
Published: February 2017

Purpose

In solid tumors, changes in the expression/activity of plasma membrane ion transporters facilitate proton efflux and enable tumor cells to maintain a higher intracellular pH (pHi), while the microenvironment (pHe) is commonly more acidic. This supports various tumor‐promoting mechanisms. We propose that these changes in pH take place before a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐detectable brain tumor recurrence occurs.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 66 patients with recurrent glioblastoma, treated with bevacizumab. Patients received a baseline and 8‐week follow‐up MRI including 1H/31P MRSI (spectroscopy) on a 3T clinical scanner, until progressive disease according to Response Assessment in Neuro‐Oncology (RANO) criteria occurred. Fourteen patients showed a distant or diffuse tumor recurrence (subsequent tumor) during treatment and were therefore selected for further evaluation. At the site of the subsequent tumor, an area of interest for MRSI voxel selection was retrospectively defined on radiographically unaffected baseline MRI sequences.

Results

Before treatment, pHi in the area of interest (subsequent tumor) was significantly higher than pHi of the contralateral normal‐appearing tissue (control; P < 0.001). It decreased at the time of best response (P = 0.06), followed by a significant increase at progression (P = 0.03; baseline mean: 7.06, median: 7.068, SD: 0.032; best response mean: 7.044, median: 7.036, SD: 0.025; progression mean: 7.08, median: 7.095, SD 0.035). Until progression, the subsequent tumor was not detectable on standard MRI sequences. The area of existing tumor responded similar, but changes were not significant (decrease P = 0.22; increase P = 0.28).

Conclusion

Elevated pHi in radiographically unaffected tissue at baseline might precede MRI‐detectable progression in patients with recurrent glioblastoma treated with bevacizumab.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1200–1208.
Novel biparametric MRI and targeted biopsy improves risk stratification in men with a clinical suspicion of prostate cancer (IMPROD Trial)
Authors: Jambor Ivan , Boström Peter J. , Taimen Pekka , Syvänen Kari , Kähkönen Esa , Kallajoki Markku , Perez Ileana Montoya , Kauko Tommi , Matomäki Jaakko , Ettala Otto , Merisaari Harri , Kiviniemi Aida , Dean Peter B. , Aronen Hannu J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the role of a 3T biparametric magnetic resonance imaging (bpMRI), T2‐weighted imaging, and three separate diffusion‐weighted imaging acquisitions combined with targeted biopsy (TB) for improving risk stratification of men with elevated prostate‐specific antigen (PSA).

Materials and Methods

Between March 2013 and February 2015, 175 men with a clinical suspicion of prostate cancer (PCa) were offered bpMRI (NCT01864135) based on a suspicion of PCa (two repeated PSA measurements in the range 2.5–20.0 ng/ml and/or abnormal digital rectal examination). Men with an equivocal to high suspicion of PCa had two TBs of the dominant lesion using cognitive ultrasound guidance, followed by systematic biopsy (SB). Men with a low to very low suspicion had only SB. In total, 161 (161/175, 92%) prospectively enrolled men completed the trial and were included in the final analyses. The primary endpoint of the trial was the cancer detection rate (CDR) of TB and SB. Clinically significant cancer (SPCa) was defined as Gleason score ≥3 + 4.

Results

TB compared with SB had higher CDR for SPCa (45%, 72/161 vs. 39%, 63/161, respectively; P > 0.05) and a lower CDR for Gleason score 3 + 3 (8%, 15/161 vs. 16%, 30/161; P < 0.05). Restricting biopsy to men with equivocal to highly suspicious bpMRI findings would have resulted in a 24% (38/161) reduction in the number of men undergoing biopsy, while missing 4 (2%) with SPCa. All anonymized datasets, including bpMRI reports and follow up information, are freely available on the trial server.

Conclusion

Prebiopsy bpMRI and TB in men with a clinical suspicion of PCa improved risk stratification.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1089–1095.
Enterovirus D68 detection in respiratory specimens: Association with severe disease
Authors: Engelmann Ilka , Fatoux Marie , Lazrek Mouna , Alidjinou Enagnon K. , Mirand Audrey , Henquell Cécile , Dewilde Anny , Hober Didier
Published: February 2017

Molecular techniques increased the number of documented respiratory infections. In a substantial number of cases the causative agent remains undetected. Since August 2014, an increase in Enterovirus(EV)‐D68 infections was reported. We aimed to investigate epidemiology and clinical relevance of EV‐D68. From June to December 2014 and from September to December 2015, 803 and 847 respiratory specimens, respectively, were tested for respiratory viruses with a multiplex RT‐PCR. This multiplex RT‐PCR does not detect EV‐D68. Therefore, 457 (2014) and 343 (2015) specimens with negative results were submitted to an EV‐specific‐RT‐PCR. EV‐positive specimens were tested with an EV‐D68‐specific‐RT‐PCR and genotyped. Eleven specimens of 2014 tested positive in the EV‐specific‐RT‐PCR and of these seven were positive in the EV‐D68‐specific‐RT‐PCR. Typing confirmed these as EV‐D68. Median age of EV‐D68‐positive patients was 3 years (1 month‐91 years). Common symptoms included fever (n = 6, 86%), respiratory distress (n = 5, 71%), and cough (n = 4, 57%). All EV‐D68‐positive patients were admitted to hospital, 4 (57%) were admitted to intensive care units and 6 (86%) received oxygen. One patient suffered from acute flaccid paralysis. Seven specimens of 2015 were positive in the EV‐specific‐RT‐PCR but negative in the EV‐D68‐specific‐RT‐PCR. In conclusion, use of an EV‐specific‐RT‐PCR allowed us to detect EV‐D68 circulation in autumn 2014 that was not detected by the multiplex RT‐PCR and was associated with severe disease.
In vivo quantification of aortic stiffness using MR elastography in hypertensive porcine model
Authors: Dong Huiming , Mazumder Ria , Illapani Venkata Sita Priyanka , Mo Xiaokui , White Richard D. , Kolipaka Arunark
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Aortic stiffness plays an important role in evaluating and predicting the progression of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH). The aim of this study is to determine the stiffness of aortic wall using MR elastography (MRE) in a hypertensive porcine model and compare it against invasive aortic pressure measurements.

Methods

Renal wrapping surgery was performed on eight pigs to induce SAH. Aortic MRE was performed at baseline and 2 months postsurgery using a retrospectively pulse‐gated gradient‐echo MRE sequence on a 1.5 tesla scanner. Mechanical waves of 70 Hz were introduced into the aorta. Invasive central aortic pressure measurements were obtained prior to each scan to calculate mean arterial pressure (MAP). MRE data were analyzed to obtain effective aortic stiffness. Spearman's rank correlation analysis was performed to assess the relationship between MAP and MRE‐derived aortic stiffness.

Results

Significant increase in effective aortic stiffness was observed between baseline and 2 months postsurgery measurements (paired t test; P = 0.004). The average MAP, determined by pooling all animals, was 65.24 ± 9.42 mm Hg at baseline and 92.57 ± 11.80 mm Hg 2 months postsurgery with P < 0.0001. Moderate linear correlation was observed between MAP and effective aortic stiffness (ρ = 0.52; P = 0.046).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that, in a SAH porcine model, MRE‐derived aortic stiffness increased with increase in MAP. Magn Reson Med 78:2315–2321, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1C: Clinical and electrophysiological findings for the c.334G>a (p.Gly112Ser) Litaf/Simple mutation
Authors: Jerath Nivedita U. , Shy Michael E.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1C (CMT1C) is a rare, dominantly inherited neuropathy caused by mutations in the lipopolysaccharide‐induced tumor necrosis factor (LITAF) or small integral membrane protein of the lysosome/late endosome (SIMPLE) gene.

Methods

We present a case series comprised of 10 patients in whom CMT1C is caused by a Gly112Ser substitution in the encoded protein. We focus on clinical presentation, electrodiagnostic analyses, and our findings in the context of previously described cases.

Results

The Gly112Ser mutation causing CMT1C is a mild form of CMT, as patients walked on time, had less weakness than those with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A), had a CMT neuropathy score (CMTNS) indicative of mild disease, and had faster ulnar and median motor nerve conduction velocities compared to those with CMT1A.

Discussion

The G112S mutation in LITAF seems to be clinically indistinguishable from a mild presentation of CMT1A. Muscle Nerve 56: 1092–1095, 2017
Multiparametric CMR imaging of infarct remodeling in a percutaneous reperfused Yucatan mini‐pig model
Authors: Lopez David , Pan Jonathan A. , Pollak Peter M. , Clarke Samantha , Kramer Christopher M. , Yeager Mark , Salerno Michael
Published: February 2017

To further understanding of the temporal evolution and pathophysiology of adverse ventricular remodeling over the first 60 days following a myocardial infarction (MI) in both the infarcted and remote myocardium, we performed multi‐parametric cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in a closed‐chest chronic Yucatan mini‐pig model of reperfused MI.

Ten animals underwent 90 min left anterior descending artery occlusion and reperfusion. Three animals served as controls. Multiparametric CMR (1.5T) was performed at baseline, Day 2, Day 30 and in four animals on Day 60 after MI. Left ventricular (LV) volumes and infarct size were measured. T1 and T2 mapping sequences were performed to measure values in the infarct and remote regions. Remote region collagen fractions were compared between infarcted animals and controls.

Procedure success was 80%. The model created large infarcts (28 ± 5% of LV mass on Day 2), which led to significant adverse myocardial remodeling that stabilized beyond 30 days. Native T1 values did not reliably differentiate remote and infarct regions acutely. There was no evidence of remote fibrosis as indicated by partition coefficient and collagen fraction analyses. The infarct T2 values remained elevated up to 60 days after MI.

Multiparametric CMR in this model showed significant adverse ventricular remodeling 30 days after MI similar to that seen in humans. In addition, this study demonstrated that remote fibrosis is absent and that infarct T2 signal remains chronically elevated in this model. These findings need to be considered when designing preclinical trials using CMR endpoints.
Improved multiparametric MRI discrimination between low‐risk prostate cancer and benign tissues in a small cohort of 5α‐reductase inhibitor treated individuals as compared with an untreated cohort
Authors: Starobinets Olga , Kurhanewicz John , Noworolski Susan M.
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine whether 5α‐reductase inhibitors (5‐ARIs) affect the discrimination between low‐grade prostate cancer and benign tissues on multiparametric MRI (mpMRI). Twenty men with biopsy‐proven Gleason 3 + 3 prostate cancer and 3 T mpMRI were studied. Ten patients (Tx) had been receiving 5‐ARIs for at least a year at scan time. Ten untreated patients (Un) were matched to the treated cohort. For each subject two regions of interest representing cancerous and benign tissues were drawn within the peripheral zone of each prostate, MR measures evaluated, and cancer contrast versus benign (contrast = (MRTumor − MRHealthy)/MRHealthy) calculated. Decreased cancer contrast was noted on T2‐weighted images: 0.4 (Un) versus 0.3 (Tx). However, for functional MR measures, a better separation of cancerous and benign tissues was observed in the treated group. Cancer contrast on high‐b diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) was 0.61 (Un) versus 0.99 (Tx). Logistic regression analysis yielded higher AUC (area under the curve) values for distinguishing cancerous from benign regions in treated subjects on high‐b DWI (0.71 (Un), 0.94 (Tx)), maximal enhancement slope (0.95 (Un), 1 (Tx)), peak enhancement (0.84 (Un), 0.93 (Tx)), washout slope (0.78 (Un), 0.99 (Tx)), Ktrans (0.9 (Un), 1 (Tx)), and combined measures (0.86 (Un), 0.99 (Tx)). Coefficients of variation for MR measures were lower in benign and cancerous tissues in the treated group compared with the untreated group. This study's results suggest an increase in homogeneity of benign and malignant peripheral zone prostatic tissues with 5‐ARI exposure, observed as reduced variability of MR measures after treatment. Cancer discrimination was lower with T2‐weighted imaging, but was higher with functional MR measures in a 5‐ARI‐treated cohort compared with controls.
COFFEE: control‐free noninvasive fetal chromosomal examination using maternal plasma DNA
Authors: Sun Kun , Chan K. C. Allen , Hudecova Irena , Chiu Rossa W. K. , Lo Y. M. Dennis , Jiang Peiyong
Published: February 2017

Objective

The aim of this study is to develop an approach for analyzing plasma DNA sequencing data for noninvasive fetal chromosomal aneuploidy testing that does not require the comparison with control samples or a series of selected genomic regions.

Results

We developed the control‐free noninvasive fetal chromosomal examination (COFFEE) algorithm by utilizing the size differences between the fetally derived and maternally derived DNA molecules in maternal plasma. We applied COFFEE on three datasets generated in different experimental settings. COFFEE showed 100% accuracy in trisomy 21 testing on these datasets. In contrast, samples analyzed using an existing control‐based z‐score method would introduce a false‐positive result because of batch‐to‐batch variation, when the tested samples were analyzed using control samples from other batches. We believe that COFFEE is useful for enhancing the cost‐effectiveness of noninvasive fetal chromosomal aneuploidy testing particularly in laboratories with small caseloads. Source code and testing datasets for COFFEE are available for download at http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/med/cpy/Research/COFFEE/.

Conclusion

Control‐free noninvasive fetal chromosomal examination is demonstrated to be a versatile data analysis approach and could enhance the application of noninvasive fetal chromosomal aneuploidy detection. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The feasibility of a physical activity intervention for adults within routine diabetes care: a process evaluation
Authors: Matthews Lynsay , Kirk Alison , McCallum Mary , Mutrie Nanette , Gold Ann , Keen Andrew
Published: February 2017

Physical activity is an important factor in diabetes management but is rarely implemented within routine diabetes care. The purpose of this process evaluation was to explore the feasibility of a 12‐month pilot physical activity consultation intervention delivered for adults within routine diabetes care.

A 12‐month pilot physical activity consultation intervention was delivered, including face‐to‐face consultations at baseline, and at six and 12 months. Additional brief consultations were conducted monthly between baseline and six months via telephone, email or face‐to‐face. Consultations were led by a physical activity consultant trained and experienced in health psychology and lifestyle behaviour change. Multiple process evaluation measures were conducted including: interviews; email communication; online survey; and intervention session summaries. Additional outcomes explored participant characteristics (n = 89), attendance, adherence and the feasibility of collecting measurable outcomes for physical activity, BMI, HbA1c and psychological wellbeing. Appropriate methods and outcomes were used to facilitate implementation in a ‘real‐life’ setting, as opposed to typical research settings.

The intervention was feasible with high protocol fidelity, adoption by staff, and positive participant feedback. The role of ‘champions’ (consultant diabetologist and two health psychologists) was identified as a key factor in the positive evaluation of the intervention. Three changes were made to the intervention to address the complex support needs of the sample. Challenges were identified with collecting questionnaire data within the time allocation of consultations. Although not reaching statistical significance, findings suggest improvements in physical activity levels, BMI and several aspects of psychological wellbeing.

It was concluded that physical activity consultation is a feasible method of promoting physical activity to adults with diabetes in routine diabetes care. The challenge lies in the translation of physical activity interventions for everyday practice while balancing the need for measurable outcomes with effective delivery. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons.
Vitamin D and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Das Gautam
Published: February 2017

In recent times there has been a growing interest in the non‐classical effects of vitamin D as receptors for vitamin D have been abundantly identified in tissues other than bone, gut and kidneys. Strong evidence has emerged that vitamin D alters glucose metabolism through its action on synthesis and transport of insulin and its signalling pathways, and it also has a widespread role in regulating insulin sensitivity and resistance. Obese people have been found to have lower stores of vitamin D which predispose them to inflammation and insulin resistance, leading to alteration in glucose homeostasis and the development of type 2 diabetes. Results from several cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies have established a potential link between vitamin D status and type 2 diabetes but the cause–effect relationship still remains an open issue for intense debate. In addition, intervention trials based on vitamin D supplementation in patients with high risk of developing diabetes, or in patients with established diabetes, with the aim of improving metabolic parameters have shown conflicting results.

This article gives an overview about the intriguing relationship between vitamin D and type 2 diabetes and explores the mechanisms which can potentially confirm the hypothesis of altered vitamin D levels and dysglycaemic status, and whether vitamin D replacement could possibly become a therapeutic strategy in managing people with type 2 diabetes in the future. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons.