bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of aramid honeycomb core on the flame retardance and mechanical property for isocyanate‐based polyimide foams
Authors: Sun Gaohui , Wang Wenpeng , Wang Leichao , Yang Zuodong , Liu Lianhe , Wang Jun , Ma Ning , Wei Hao , Han Shihui
Published: March 2017

In this work, composite materials containing aramid honeycomb core (ARHC) reinforced isocyanate‐based polyimide foams (IBPIFs) were prepared by a simple free‐foaming process. The flame retardance, smoke performance, and mechanical property of the composite materials along the transverse (W) and longitude (L) directions of ARHC were studied. Results of limiting oxygen index and cone calorimeter reveal that the space partition action of ARHC on IBPIFs, barrier action of honeycomb structure on fire, and generation of straight, flurry and porous char layer in the honeycomb cells during combustion effectively enhanced the flame retardance of IBPIFs. Mechanical property test shows that IBPIFs and ARHC presented a positive synergetic effect, and ARHC increased the compression strength of IBPIFs along the W and L directions of ARHC by approximately 300%. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45041.
Replacement of styrene with acrylated epoxidized soybean oil in an unsaturated polyester resin from propylene glycol and maleic anhydride
Authors: Wu Yili , Li Kaichang
Published: March 2017

A nonvolatile, vegetable‐oil based chemical, acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) was investigated as a replacement of volatile and toxic styrene in one of commercial UPE resins styrene‐(PG‐MA) that is a mixture of styrene and a UPE plastic from propylene glycol and maleic anhydride (PG‐MA). Neither AESO nor PG‐MA was capable of forming a strong matrix, respectively, for glass fiber‐reinforced composites. However, a mixture of AESO and PG‐MA resulted in glass fiber‐reinforced AESO‐(PG‐MA) composites that were comparable or even superior to those from styrene‐(PG‐MA) in terms of the flexural and tensile properties. Effects of AESO contents on the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of the glass fiber‐reinforced AESO‐(PG‐MA) composites were investigated. Resin viscosity and resin pot life as a function of temperature were studied. The curing mechanism of the AESO‐(PG‐MA) resins is also discussed. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45056.
A new test of advanced theory of mind: The “Strange Stories Film Task” captures social processing differences in adults with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Murray Kim , Johnston Kate , Cunnane Helen , Kerr Charlotte , Spain Debbie , Gillan Nicola , Hammond Neil , Murphy Declan , Happé Francesca
Published: March 2017

Real‐life social processing abilities of adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) can be hard to capture in lab‐based experimental tasks. A novel measure of social cognition, the “Strange Stories Film task’ (SSFt), was designed to overcome limitations of available measures in the field. Brief films were made based on the scenarios from the Strange Stories task (Happé) and designed to capture the subtle social‐cognitive difficulties observed in ASD adults. Twenty neurotypical adults were recruited to pilot the new measure. A final test set was produced and administered to a group of 20 adults with ASD and 20 matched controls, alongside established social cognition tasks and questionnaire measures of empathy, alexithymia and ASD traits. The SSFt was more effective than existing measures at differentiating the ASD group from the control group. In the ASD group, the SSFt was associated with the Strange Stories task. The SSFt is a potentially useful tool to identify social cognitive dis/abilities in ASD, with preliminary evidence of adequate convergent validity. Future research directions are discussed. Autism Res 2017. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1120–1132. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A clinician‐administered observation and corresponding caregiver interview capturing DSM‐5 sensory reactivity symptoms in children with ASD
Authors: Siper Paige M. , Kolevzon Alexander , Wang A. Ting , Buxbaum Joseph D. , Tavassoli Teresa
Published: March 2017

Background: Sensory reactivity is a new criterion for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM‐5). However, there is no consensus on how to reliably measure sensory reactivity, particularly in minimally verbal individuals. The current study is an initial validation of the Sensory Assessment for Neurodevelopmental Disorders (SAND), a novel clinician‐administered observation and corresponding caregiver interview that captures sensory symptoms based on DSM‐5 criteria for ASD. Methods: Eighty children between the ages of 2 and 12 participated in this study; 44 children with ASD and 36 typically developing (TD) children. Sensory reactivity symptoms were measured using the SAND and the already validated Short Sensory Profile (SSP). Initial psychometric properties of the SAND were examined including reliability, validity, sensitivity and specificity. Results: Children with ASD showed significantly more sensory reactivity symptoms compared to TD children across sensory domains (visual, tactile, and auditory) and within sensory subtypes (hyperreactivity, hyporeactivity and seeking). The SAND showed strong internal consistency, inter‐rater reliability and test‐retest reliability, high sensitivity (95.5%) and specificity (91.7%), and strong convergent validity with the SSP. Significance: The SAND provides a novel method to characterize sensory reactivity symptoms based on DSM‐5 criteria for ASD. This is the first known sensory assessment that combines a clinician‐administered observation and caregiver interview to optimally capture sensory phenotypes characteristic of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. The SAND offers a beneficial new tool for both research and clinical purposes and has the potential to meaningfully enhance gold‐standard assessment of ASD. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1133–1140. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphological, Secondary Metabolite and ITS (rDNA) Variability within Usnic Acid‐Containing Lichen Thalli of Xanthoparmelia Explored at the Local Scale of Rock Outcrop in W‐Alps
Authors: Matteucci Enrica , Occhipinti Andrea , Piervittori Rosanna , Maffei Massimo E. , Favero‐Longo Sergio E.
Published: March 2017

Lichen secondary metabolites (LSMs) are regarded with interest for valuable biological properties, but chemical variability among/within lichen taxa has been only fragmentarily characterized by advanced analytical techniques. Knowledge of variability at a local geographic scale has been particularly neglected, while it should address the collection of chemically homogeneous materials to test and exploit LSMs. Here we evaluated the chemical variability of 48 Xanthoparmelia specimens from two rock outcrops in Western Italian Alps, representative of nine morphotypes and sixteen rDNA ITS haplotypes. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed by HPLC‐DAD‐ESI‐MS2 and UPLC‐HDR‐DAD, respectively, and revealed the occurrence of 18 LSMs. Chemical partition allowed distinguishing six chemical groups, only partially overlapping with distinct morphotypes and three divergent haplotype groups, which, overall, accounted for the co‐occurrence of different taxa only in part identifiable with species described for Europe. Some morphotypes were variable in presence and concentration of LSMs, and chemical divergences also characterized single ITS haplotypes. Accordingly, the collection of chemically homogeneous materials, even at a local scale, may be not properly addressed by morphological features and ITS barcoding, and should be confirmed by a specimen‐level chemical characterization.
Enhancement of Oxygen Activation and Mobility in CaTixFe1−xO3−δ Oxides
Authors: Répécaud Pierre‐Alexis , Kaper Helena , Richard Mélissandre , Can Fabien , Bion Nicolas
Published: March 2017

The study of oxygen activation and mobility in CaTi0.9Fe0.1O3−δ was investigated by using the isotopic exchange technique. The thermomechanical and chemical stability of CaTi0.9Fe0.1O3−δ makes it a promising mixed ionic and electronic conducting oxide for catalytic membrane reactors. However, its oxygen flux performance is still lower than that of reference membranes. Two strategies were studied to improve oxygen transport in this perovskite oxide, that is, higher Fe doping and utilization of a dual‐bed system composed of LaMnO3/CaTi0.9Fe0.1O3−δ.
Synthesis of Three‐Dimensional Nitrogen and Sulfur Dual‐Doped Graphene Aerogels as an Efficient Metal‐Free Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Chabu Johnny Muya , Wang Liqiang , Tang Fei‐Ying , Zeng Ke , Sheng Jianping , Walle Maru Dessie , Deng Liu , Liu You‐Nian
Published: March 2017

Three‐dimensional (3D) nitrogen and sulfur dual‐doped graphene aerogels (NSGAs) are successfully synthesized by using a rational hydrothermal self‐assembly process with ammonia and sulfur powder as nitrogen and sulfur sources, respectively. Structural characterization, including TEM, HAADF‐STEM, SEM, and XPS indicated that the NSGA catalyst exhibits an interconnected macroporous framework of graphene sheets and tunable contents of N and S. The as‐prepared NSGAs show an excellent electrocatalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction, including a highly positive onset potential, high kinetic limiting current density, and fuel tolerance. In particular, the NSGA catalyst reveals a much better long‐term stability than that of Pt/C in alkaline medium.
Ligand Torsion Triggered Two Robust Fe‐Tetratopic Carboxylate Frameworks with Enhanced Gas Uptake and Separation Performance
Authors: Zhang Jian‐Wei , Hu Man‐Cheng , Li Shu‐Ni , Jiang Yu‐Cheng , Zhai Quan‐Guo
Published: March 2017

By regulating the tetratopic carboxylate ligands, two robust Fe‐MOFs (MOF=Metal‐organic framework) comprising trigonal prismatic building blocks under a DMA/DMSO/HBF4 solvent system, namely, [(CH3)2NH2][FeII3(OH)(BPTC)1.5(DMSO)3] (SNNU‐60) and [FeIIIFeII2(OH)(ABTC)1.5(DMSO)3] (SNNU‐61) (BPTC=3,3′,5,5′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic acid, ABTC=3,3′,5,5′‐azobenzenetetracarboxylic acid, SNNU=Shaanxi Normal University) have been successfully synthesized. The torsions between the benzene groups of the ligands result in two MOFs exhibiting completely different (4,6)‐connected frameworks, which represent the only two MOF types constructed by [M3(O/OH)(COO)6] trimeric building units and quadrilateral tetratopic carboxylate linkers until now. The robust Fe‐MOFs SNNU‐60 and SNNU‐61 both exhibit high thermal/chemical stability, permanent microporosity, and excellent gas uptake capability for H2, CO2, C2H2, and C2H4 under 1 bar. SNNU‐60 in particular displays very high C2H2 capture under low pressure (85 cm3 cm−3 at 0.15 bar and 298 K), which is among the top C2H2 uptake MOF materials. Also, these two Fe‐MOFs display high separation for CO2 and C2‐hydrocarbons over CH4. Significantly, thanks to the high stability, suitable pore size, open Fe sites, and ion skeleton, SNNU‐60 has extremely high C2H2/CH4 selectivity (83.6, 298 K), which surpasses most MOFs reported so far under the same conditions.
Semiparametric PCA and bayesian network based process fault diagnosis technique
Authors: Wang Yazhen , Liu Yi , Khan Faisal , Imtiaz Syed
Published: March 2017

Semiparametric Principal Component Analysis has advantages over Principal Component Analysis (PCA), as it can deal with nonlinear and non‐monotonic correlation and non‐Gaussian distribution process data. In Semiparametric PCA the distance correlation coefficient matrix is used to replace the covariance matrix, and a semi‐parametric Gaussian transformation is used to allow variables to follow multivariate Gaussian distribution. To reduce the cost of monitoring and alarm flooding, a fault diagnosis technique, which combines Semiparametric PCA and Bayesian Network (BN), is proposed here. In the first stage, Semiparametric PCA is used to find the fault in monitored variables. Considering the interaction of process variables and historical process data, a Bayesian network is developed in the second stage. Considering Semiparametric PCA outcome as evidence, the Bayesian network applies deductive and abductive reasoning to update and analysis, which assist in determining the true root cause(s) and fault propagation pathway. The implementation and applicability of the proposed methodology are demonstrated using three process systems.
The enigma of inhaled salbutamol and sport: unresolved after 45 years
Authors: Fitch Ken D.
Published: March 2017

During the past 45 years, there have been more changes on the World Anti‐Doping Agency's (WADA) Prohibited List (the List) to the status of inhaled salbutamol than any other substance. With 658 athletes, 6.1% of all participating athletes approved to inhale salbutamol at the 2008 Beijing Games, it is one of the medications used most frequently by Olympic athletes. Nevertheless, since the 2008 Games, WADA has made numerous changes to inhaled salbutamol on the List including prohibiting its use, then a year later permitting it without prior notification and recommending a pharmacokinetic study if an athlete exceeds the urinary threshold of 1000 ng/mL. Recently, an elite athlete undertook two pharmacokinetic studies and the results have raised several questions. These include whether WADA should continue to permit nebulized salbutamol as an acceptable method of inhalation and there is some justification for nebulized salbutamol to be prohibited in sport. Another question is whether the modified advisory on salbutamol in the 2017 List appropriately informs athletes of the risks of exceeding the urinary threshold and the recent changes may not inform athletes optimally. Finally, concern is expressed at the persistent failure of WADA to apply a correction down to a specific gravity of 1.020 when an exogenous substance is identified in the urine of a dehydrated athlete. It is recommended that this should be implemented. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Report on an anti‐doping operation in Guadeloupe: High number of positive cases and inferences about doping habits
Authors: Marchand A. , Buisson C. , Martin L. , Martin J.‐A. , Molina A. , Ressiot D.
Published: March 2017

Anti‐doping controls in non‐major events are relatively infrequent and athletes that compete only in these events are less likely to be controlled. The French Anti‐Doping Agency carried out an anti‐doping operation during a regional cycling competition in Guadeloupe. The urine and serum samples were analysed by the French anti‐doping laboratory. Out of 42 athletes, 7 were positive for one or more substances prohibited by the World Anti‐Doping Agency. Four serum samples contained continuous erythropoietin receptor activator (CERA) and one a recombinant erythropoietin. However, no traces were found in the corresponding urines. One of the athletes positive for CERA was also positive for growth hormone (GH), identified using the GH isoform test. The same serum was negative with the GH biomarkers test, probably because of the brief interval between injection and control (less than a day). The stimulants heptaminol and dimethylbutylamine, as well as the glucocorticoid prednisone and its metabolite prednisolone, were also found. Strikingly, 16.6% of the controlled athletes were using one or more prohibited drugs. These findings indicate that doping is widespread in athletes competing regionally and that CERA is still a popular drug for endurance sports. They underline the need for more controls, particularly blood sampling during non‐major competitions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Card9 controls Dectin‐1‐induced T‐cell cytotoxicity and tumor growth in mice
Authors: Haas Tobias , Heidegger Simon , Wintges Alexander , Bscheider Michael , Bek Sarah , Fischer Julius C. , Eisenkolb Gabriel , Schmickl Martina , Spoerl Silvia , Peschel Christian , Poeck Hendrik , Ruland Jürgen
Published: March 2017

Activation of the C‐type lectin receptor Dectin‐1 by β‐glucans triggers multiple signals within DCs that result in activation of innate immunity. While these mechanisms can potently prime CD8+ cytotoxic T‐cell (CTL) responses without additional adjuvants, the Dectin‐1 effector pathways that control CTL induction remain unclear. Here we demonstrate that Dectin‐1‐induced CTL cross‐priming in mice does not require inflammasome activation but strictly depends on the adapter protein Card9 in vitro. In vivo, Dectin‐1‐mediated Card9 activation after vaccination drives both expansion and activation of Ag‐specific CTLs, resulting in long‐lasting CTL responses that are sufficient to protect mice from tumor challenge. This Dectin‐1‐induced antitumor immune response was independent of NK cell function and completely abrogated in Card9‐deficient mice. Thus, our results demonstrate that Dectin‐1‐triggered Card9 signaling but not inflammasome activation can potently cross‐prime Ag‐specific CTLs, suggesting that this pathway would be a candidate for immunotherapy and vaccine development.
Graphene‐analogue molybdenum disulfide for adsorptive removal of tetracycline from aqueous solution: equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Chao Yanhong , Yang Long , Ji Haiyan , Zhu Wenshuai , Pang Jingyu , Han Changri , Li Huaming
Published: March 2017

The performance of graphene‐analogue molybdenum disulfide (G‐MoS2) as an adsorbent for removal of organic contaminant tetracycline from aqueous solution was studied systematically. The synthetic G‐MoS2 showed much better adsorption ability than the commercial MoS2 with more than 90% of tetracycline removal. The kinetics data agreed well with the pseudo‐second order model, and the equilibrium was obtained within 16 h. Langmuir isotherm model provided the best fit to the equilibrium data of tetracycline adsorption than Freundlich and Tempkin models. The adsorption was a spontaneous and endothermic process deduced by the thermodynamic analysis. Adsorption of tetracycline on G‐MoS2 was partly dependent on pH values, but strongly relied on ionic strength. The proposed mechanism was probably synergetic π–π dispersion, hydrophobic effect, and electrostatic interaction. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 815–821, 2017
Geomorphic process from topographic form: automating the interpretation of repeat survey data in river valleys
Authors: Kasprak Alan , Caster Joshua , Bangen Sara G. , Sankey Joel B.
Published: March 2017

The ability to quantify the processes driving geomorphic change in river valley margins is vital to geomorphologists seeking to understand the relative role of transport mechanisms (e.g. fluvial, aeolian, and hillslope processes) in landscape dynamics. High‐resolution, repeat topographic data are becoming readily available to geomorphologists. By contrasting digital elevation models derived from repeat surveys, the transport processes driving topographic changes can be inferred, a method termed ‘mechanistic segregation.’ Unfortunately, mechanistic segregation largely relies on subjective and time consuming manual classification, which has implications both for its reproducibility and the practical scale of its application. Here we present a novel computational workflow for the mechanistic segregation of geomorphic transport processes in geospatial datasets. We apply the workflow to seven sites along the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, where geomorphic transport is driven by a diverse suite of mechanisms. The workflow performs well when compared to field observations, with an overall predictive accuracy of 84% across 113 validation points. The approach most accurately predicts changes due to fluvial processes (100% accuracy) and aeolian processes (96%), with reduced accuracy in predictions of alluvial and colluvial processes (64% and 73%, respectively). Our workflow is designed to be applicable to a diversity of river systems and will likely provide a rapid and objective understanding of the processes driving geomorphic change at the reach and network scales. We anticipate that such an understanding will allow insight into the response of geomorphic transport processes to external forcings, such as shifts in climate, land use, or river regulation, with implications for process‐based river management and restoration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study of the extent of information desired by women undergoing non‐invasive prenatal testing following positive prenatal Down‐syndrome screening test results
Authors: Lo Tsz‐Kin , Chan Kelvin Yuen‐Kwong , Kan Anita Sik‐Yau , So Po‐Lam , Kong Choi‐Wah , Mak Shui‐Lam , Lee Chung‐Nin
Published: March 2017

Among patients with pregnancies considered at‐risk for Down syndrome undergoing non‐invasive prenatal testing, preferring extended reports was associated with greater education and knowledge of testing.
The impact of community health educators on uptake of cervical and breast cancer prevention services in Nigeria
Authors: Chigbu Chibuike O. , Onyebuchi Azubuike K. , Onyeka Tonia C. , Odugu Boniface U. , Dim Cyril C.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To determine the impact of trained community health educators on the uptake of cervical and breast cancer screening, and HPV vaccination in rural communities in southeast Nigeria.

Methods

A prospective population‐based intervention study, with a before‐and‐after design, involved four randomly selected communities in southeast Nigeria from February 2014 to February 2016. Before the intervention, baseline data were collected on the uptake of cervical and breast cancer prevention services. The intervention was house‐to‐house education on cervical cancer and breast cancer prevention. Postintervention outcome measures included the uptake of cervical and breast cancer screening, and HPV vaccination within 6 months of intervention.

Results

In total, 1327 women were enrolled. Before the intervention, 42 (3.2%) women had undergone cervical cancer screening; afterwards, 897 (67.6%) women had received screening (P<0.001). Clinical breast examination was performed for 59 (4.4%) women before and 897 (67.6%) after the intervention (P<0.001). Only 2 (0.9%) of 214 children eligible for HPV vaccination had received the vaccine before versus 71 (33.2%) after the intervention (P<0.001).

Conclusion

The use of community health educators for house‐to‐house cervical and breast cancer prevention education was associated with significant increases in the uptake of cervical cancer screening, clinical breast examination, and HPV vaccination.
LncRNA XIST Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Proliferation Through miR‐133a/EGFR
Authors: Wei Wei , Liu Yu , Lu Yebin , Yang Bo , Tang Ling
Published: March 2017

According to recent studies, long non‐coding RNA X‐inactive specific transcript (XIST) is involved in the development and progression of many malignant tumors including pancreatic cancer. We validated the detailed role of XIST in human pancreatic cancer (PC) cell lines and PC tissues so as to determine its exact function and the mechanism by which it affected PC proliferation. In our research, lncRNA‐XIST was specifically upregulated in PC tissues and cell lines, and high XIST expression in PC was related to poorer prognosis (larger tumor size, perineural invasion, lymph node micrometastases, and shorter overall survival). XIST augmented PC cell proliferation. Recently, the interaction between lncRNA and miRNA has been frequently reported to play major role in several biological processes. In the present study, XIST and miR‐133a reciprocally inhibited each other in PC cells. Exogenous miR‐133a expression significantly inhibited PC cell proliferation. Moreover, as exhibited by luciferase reporter gene assays, miR‐133a bound to XIST and the 3′UTR of EGFR by direct targeting. In PC tissues, miR‐133a expression was down‐regulated and EGFR expression was up‐regulated; miR‐133a was inversely correlated with EGFR and XIST, respectively; XIST was positively correlated with EGFR. Taken together, these findings will shed light on the role and mechanism of XIST/miR‐133a/EGFR in regulating PC cells proliferation. XIST may serve as a potential therapeutic target in PC in the future. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 3349–3358, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fibroblast dynamics as an in vitro screening platform for anti‐fibrotic drugs in primary myelofibrosis
Authors: Tomuleasa Ciprian , Selicean Sonia , Gafencu Grigore , Petrushev Bobe , Pop Laura , Berce Cristian , Jurj Anca , Trifa Adrian , Rosu Ana‐Maria , Pasca Sergiu , Magdo Lorand , Zdrenghea Mihnea , Dima Delia , Tanase Alina , Frinc Ioana , Bojan Anca , Berindan‐Neagoe Ioana , Ghiaur Gabriel , Ciurea Stefan O.
Published: March 2017

Although the cause for bone marrow fibrosis in patients with myelofibrosis remains controversial, it has been hypothesized that it is caused by extensive fibroblast proliferation under the influence of cytokines generated by the malignant megakaryocytes. Moreover, there is no known drug therapy which could reverse the process. We studied the fibroblasts in a novel system using the hanging drop method, evaluated whether the fibroblasts obtain from patients are part of the malignant clone of not and, using this system, we screen a large library of FDA‐approved drugs to identify potential drugs candidates that might be useful in the treatment of this disease, specifically which would inhibit fibroblast proliferation and the development of bone marrow fibrosis. We have found that the BM fibroblasts are not part of the malignant clone, as previously suspected and two immunosuppressive medications—cyclosporine and mycophenolate mophetil, as most potent suppressors of the fibroblast collagen production thus potentially inhibitors of bone marrow fibrosis production in myelofibrosis.
Visualization of stimulus‐specific heterogeneous activation of individual vascular smooth muscle cells in aortic tissues
Authors: Komatsu Satoshi , Kitazawa Toshio , Ikebe Mitsuo
Published: March 2017

Intercellular communication among autonomic nerves, endothelial cells (ECs), and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) plays a central role in an uninterrupted regulation of blood flow through vascular contractile machinery. Impairment of this communication is linked to development of vascular diseases such as hypertension, cerebral/coronary vasospasms, aortic aneurism, and erectile dysfunction. Although the basic concept of the communication as a whole has been studied, the spatiotemporal correlation of ECs/VSMCs in tissues at the cellular level is unknown. Here, we show a unique VSMC response to ECs during contraction and relaxation of isolated aorta tissues through visualization of spatiotemporal activation patterns of smooth muscle myosin II. ECs in the intimal layer dictate the stimulus‐specific heterogeneous activation pattern of myosin II in VSMCs within distinct medial layers. Myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation (active form of myosin II) gradually increases towards outer layers (approximately threefold higher MLC phosphorylation at the outermost layer than that of the innermost layer), presumably by release of an intercellular messenger, nitric oxide (NO). Our study also demonstrates that the MLC phosphorylation at the outermost layer in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) during NO‐induced relaxation is quite high and approximately 10‐fold higher than that of its counterpart, the Wister–Kyoto rats (WKY), suggesting that the distinct pattern of myosin II activation within tissues is important for vascular protection against elevated blood pressure.
Wavelet entropy of BOLD time series: An application to Rolandic epilepsy
Authors: Gupta Lalit , Jansen Jacobus F.A. , Hofman Paul A.M. , Besseling René M.H. , de Louw Anton J.A. , Aldenkamp Albert P. , Backes Walter H
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To assess the wavelet entropy for the characterization of intrinsic aberrant temporal irregularities in the time series of resting‐state blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent (BOLD) signal fluctuations. Further, to evaluate the temporal irregularities (disorder/order) on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis in the brains of children with Rolandic epilepsy.

Materials and Methods

The BOLD time series was decomposed using the discrete wavelet transform and the wavelet entropy was calculated. Using a model time series consisting of multiple harmonics and nonstationary components, the wavelet entropy was compared with Shannon and spectral (Fourier‐based) entropy. As an application, the wavelet entropy in 22 children with Rolandic epilepsy was compared to 22 age‐matched healthy controls. The images were obtained by performing resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) using a 3T system, an 8‐element receive‐only head coil, and an echo planar imaging pulse sequence (
‐weighted). The wavelet entropy was also compared to spectral entropy, regional homogeneity, and Shannon entropy.

Results

Wavelet entropy was found to identify the nonstationary components of the model time series. In Rolandic epilepsy patients, a significantly elevated wavelet entropy was observed relative to controls for the whole cerebrum (P = 0.03). Spectral entropy (P = 0.41), regional homogeneity (P = 0.52), and Shannon entropy (P = 0.32) did not reveal significant differences.

Conclusion

The wavelet entropy measure appeared more sensitive to detect abnormalities in cerebral fluctuations represented by nonstationary effects in the BOLD time series than more conventional measures. This effect was observed in the model time series as well as in Rolandic epilepsy. These observations suggest that the brains of children with Rolandic epilepsy exhibit stronger nonstationary temporal signal fluctuations than controls.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;46:1728–1737.
Localization of VZV in saliva of zoster patients
Authors: Mehta Satish K. , Nelman‐Gonzalez Mayra , Tyring Stephen K. , Tong Yun , Beitman Andrew , Crucian Brian E. , Renner Ashlie N. , Pierson Duane L.
Published: March 2017

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) in saliva from six herpes zoster patients and one chickenpox patient was found to be exclusively associated with epithelial cells by confocal microscopy. VZV localization with antibody specific to the VZV glycoprotein E was detected primarily on the membrane but was also inside the cell. Epithelial cells with VZV were still present in saliva in one out of two tested zoster patients after 10 months of recovery. Saliva from healthy controls (non‐shingles patients, n = 5) did not show any sign of VZV by polymerase chain reaction or by confocal microscopy. No VZV was found in the liquid fraction of saliva. Further work is required to understand the movement of VZV in the saliva cells of infected patients.
Growth of black brant and lesser snow goose goslings in northern alaska
Authors: Hupp Jerry W. , Ward David H. , Hogrefe Kyle R. , Sedinger James S. , Martin Philip D. , Stickney Alice A. , Obritschkewitsch Tim
Published: March 2017

Gosling body mass can affect first year survival, recruitment, adult body size, and future fecundity of geese, and can serve as an indicator of forage availability and quality on brood‐rearing areas. From 2012–2014 we measured body mass of 76 black brant (Branta bernicla nigricans) and 268 lesser snow goose (Chen caerulescens caerulescens) goslings of known age on the Colville River Delta (CRD) of northern Alaska to determine if there was evidence of density‐dependent declines in gosling growth following recent population increases of those species and sympatric greater white‐fronted geese (Anser albifrons frontalis). We contrasted contemporary body mass of brant goslings and forage biomass in brood‐rearing habitats that were shared by all species, with measures obtained on, and near the CRD in the 1990s, prior to the establishment of snow goose nesting colonies in the area. Body mass of brant goslings recaptured between 25 and 32 days of age had not changed over the past 2 decades, despite an influx of snow geese, and increases in populations of brant and white‐fronted geese. At 30 days of age, body mass of brant goslings on the CRD was 100–400 g heavier than for brant goslings of the same age on the Yukon‐Kuskokwim Delta (YKD), Alaska. Contemporary biomass of grazedCarex subspathaceaon CRD brood‐rearing areas was comparable to the 1990s and was 2–4 times greater than for the same plant community on the YKD. Historical data on growth of snow goose goslings were not available for the CRD. However, average body mass of 34‐day‐old snow goose goslings was>230 g heavier than for conspecifics of the same age in the Hudson Bay region. We conclude that the establishment of nesting snow geese on the CRD has not negatively affected brant gosling growth, and that recent population increases of all species have likely not been constrained by forage availability on brood‐rearing areas. Barring demographic changes elsewhere in their annual cycles, we predict that goose populations will continue to increase in northern Alaska. However, snow geese are increasing more rapidly than brant in the region. Because the black brant population has periodically been below conservation objectives, the effects of the increasing number of snow geese on forage biomass and growth of brant goslings in northern Alaska should be monitored. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Systematic out‐of‐field secondary neutron spectrometry and dosimetry in pencil beam scanning proton therapy
Authors: Trinkl Sebastian , Mares Vladimir , Englbrecht Franz Siegfried , Wilkens Jan Jakob , Wielunski Marek , Parodi Katia , Rühm Werner , Hillbrand Martin
Published: March 2017

Background and purpose

Systematic investigation of the energy and angular dependence of secondary neutron fluence energy distributions and ambient dose equivalents values (H*(10)) inside a pencil beam scanning proton therapy treatment room using a gantry.

Materials and methods

Neutron fluence energy distributions were measured with an extended‐range Bonner sphere spectrometer featuring ³He proportional counters, at four positions at 0°, 45°, 90°, and 135° with respect to beam direction and at a distance of 2 m from the isocenter. The energy distribution of secondary neutrons was investigated for initial proton beam energies of 75 MeV, 140 MeV, and 200 MeV, respectively, using a 2D scanned irradiation field of 11 × 11 cm² delivered to a 30 × 30 × 30 cm³ PMMA phantom. Additional measurements were performed at a proton energy of 118 MeV including a 5 cm range‐shifter (PMMA), yielding a Bragg peak position similar to that of 75 MeV protons.

Results

Ambient dose equivalent values from 0.3 μSv/Gy (75 MeV; 90°) to 24 μSv/Gy (200 MeV; 0°) were measured inside the treatment room at a distance of 2 m from the isocenter. H*(10) values were lower (by factors of up to 7.2 (at 45°)) at 75 MeV compared to those at 118 MeV with the 5 cm range‐shifter. At 0° and 45°, an evaporation peak was found in the measured neutron fluence energy distributions, at neutron energies around MeV, which contributes about 50% to total H*(10) values, for all investigated proton beam energies.

Conclusions

This study showed a pronounced increase of secondary neutron H*(10) values inside the proton treatment room with increasing proton energy without beam modifiers. For example, in beam direction this increase was about a factor of 50 when protons of 75 MeV and 200 MeV were compared. The existence of a peak of secondary neutrons in the MeV region was demonstrated in beam direction (0°). This peak is due to evaporation neutrons produced in the existing surrounding materials such as those used for the gantry. Therefore, any simulation of the secondary neutrons within a proton treatment room must take these materials into account. In addition, the results obtained here show that the use of a range‐shifter increases the production of secondary neutrons inside the treatment room. Using a range‐shifter, the higher neutron doses observed mainly result from the higher incident proton energy (118 MeV instead of 75 MeV when no range‐shifter was used), due to higher neutron production cross‐sections.
Registration status and methodological reporting of randomized controlled trials in obesity research: A review
Authors: Byrne Jillian L.S. , Yee Tamara , O'Connor Kathleen , Dyson Michele P. , Ball Geoff D.C.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To assess registration and reporting details of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from 2011 to 2016 across four obesity journals.

Methods

All issues from four leading obesity journals were searched systematically for RCTs from January 2011 to June 2016. Data on registration status were extracted from manuscripts, online trial registries, and a trial database; corresponding authors were contacted for registration details, when necessary. The methodological reporting of RCTs was assessed on specific criteria from the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials.

Results

A total of 223 RCTs were reviewed. Three‐quarters (n = 170) were registered publicly; 94 (55.3%) reported registration details in the manuscript, and 82 (48.2%) were registered prospectively. Newer RCTs were more likely to be registered prospectively than older RCTs (2014‐2016: 57.3% vs. 2011‐2013: 39.2%; c2 = 5.5, P = 0.02). Assessment on the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials demonstrated that less than half of all studies reported data collection dates (n = 108; 48.4%) or included “randomized trial” in the title (n = 89; 39.9%).

Conclusions

The methodological reporting of RCTs published in obesity journals is suboptimal, despite current guidelines and policies. To complement existing standards, editorial boards should incorporate mandatory fields within the online manuscript submission process to enhance the quality, transparency, and comprehensiveness of reporting RCTs in obesity journals.
Changes in the morphological–mechanical properties and thermal stability of bamboo fibers during the processing of alkaline treatment
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhou Shujue , Li Lu , Zhang Xiaoping
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study is to perform an intensive investigation of the influence of alkali concentrations on the microstructure and thermomechanical properties of bamboo fibers. The fibers were alkalized with 1, 4, and 7 wt% NaOH solution at room temperature for 1 h, respectively, and then they were examined by using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and tensile tests. The changes in morphology and chemical composition demonstrate that hemicellulose and lignin are likely removed by the alkalization with high concentration of NaOH. Compared with untreated fibers, there is an improvement in the average tensile strength of the fibers with the use of alkali treatment at 4 wt% concentration, which can be attributed to the formation of an effective contact area available for superior bonding with the matrix after treatment, whereas higher concentration used in the treatment induces a decrease of tensile strength. The analysis indicates that the elimination of binding materials with alkali treatment by higher concentration leading to partial removal of cellulose may be responsible for such changes. It is further verified by thermogravimetric analysis and X‐ray diffraction that the increase of alkali concentration helps facilitate an improvement of thermal stability. The overall results suggest that an appropriate alkali treatment is a key technology for enhancing the properties of natural fibers. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1421–E1428, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Risk of Incident Antidepressant‐Treated Depression Associated with Use of 5α‐Reductase Inhibitors Compared with Use of α‐Blockers in Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Population‐Based Study Using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink
Authors: Hagberg Katrina Wilcox , Divan Hozefa A. , Nickel J. Curtis , Jick Susan S.
Published: March 2017

Study Objective

To estimate the risk of incident antidepressant‐treated depression in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who were prescribed 5α‐reductase inhibitors (5‐ARIs) compared with those prescribed an active comparator, α‐blockers (ABs).

Design

Retrospective cohort study with a nested case‐control analysis.

Data Source

United Kingdom's Clinical Practice Research Datalink.

Patients

A total of 77,732 men with a diagnosis of BPH who received a prescription for a 5‐ARI only and/or AB between January 1, 1992, and December 31, 2013. Of these men, 2842 had a first‐time (incident) diagnosis of depression and received a prescription for an antidepressant within 90 days of the depression diagnosis date (cases); 11,333 controls without a diagnosis of depression were matched to the cases for the case‐control analysis.

Measurements and Main Results

Exposures were classified as 5‐ARI only, 5ARI + AB, or AB only. We calculated incidence rates of antidepressant‐treated depression and compared rates among users of 5‐ARIs only and 5‐ARIs + ABs with rates among users of ABs only (i.e., incidence rate ratios [IRRs]). We also calculated odds ratios (ORs) to estimate the risk of incident depression with use of 5‐ARIs only and 5‐ARIs + ABs compared with ABs only. In this population of men with BPH, the risk of depression was not increased with use of 5‐ARIs only (IRR 0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.85–1.04) or 5‐ARIs + ABs (IRR 1.04, 95% CI 0.89–1.21) compared with use of ABs only. In the case‐control analysis, exposure to 5‐ARIs only (adjusted OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.78–1.01) or 5‐ARIs + ABs (adjusted OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.73–1.10) was not associated with the risk of treated depression compared with exposure to ABs only, and results remained null regardless of number of prescriptions or timing of exposure. The risk of incident antidepressant‐treated depression increased with longer duration of BPH, independent of study drug exposure.

Conclusion

In this population of men with treated BPH, use of 5‐ARIs, alone or in combination with ABs, did not increase the risk of incident antidepressant‐treated depression compared with use of ABs only. Risk of treated depression increased with longer duration of BPH.
Effectiveness and Tolerability of Conivaptan and Tolvaptan for the Treatment of Hyponatremia in Neurocritically Ill Patients
Authors: Der‐Nigoghossian Caroline , Lesch Christine , Berger Karen
Published: March 2017

Study Objective

To describe the effectiveness and tolerability of conivaptan and tolvaptan for the correction of hyponatremia in neurocritically ill patients.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Neurointensive care units at two academic medical centers.

Patients

Thirty‐six adults admitted to the neurocritical care unit who received at least one dose of conivaptan (5 patients) or tolvaptan (31 patients) between June 2012 and May 2013.

Measurements and Main Results

A single oral dose or intravenous bolus was administered to 23 (74%) patients who received tolvaptan and 2 (40%) patients who received conivaptan, respectively. The mean maximal increase in serum sodium level at 24 hours following the last dose compared with baseline was 5.2 mEq/L for conivaptan (p=0.05) and 7.9 mEq/L for tolvaptan (p<0.001). The mean ± SD maximal increases in serum sodium level at 48, 72, and 96 hours following the last dose of vaptan therapy compared with baseline were 5.5 ± 2.2 mEq/L (p=0.01), 5.6 ± 2.0 mEq/L (p=0.005), and 4.8 ± 2.2 mEq/L (p=0.03), respectively. Sodium overcorrection occurred in six patients (19%) receiving tolvaptan and none of the patients receiving conivaptan. Hypotension occurred in 20% of patients receiving conivaptan and 52% of patients receiving tolvaptan, whereas hypokalemia was observed in 40% of patients receiving conivaptan.

Conclusion

Use of vaptans in neurocritically ill patients led to a significant increase in serum sodium level at 24 hours after the last dose, which was sustained for 96 hours, with the majority of patients receiving a single dose. Risk of sodium overcorrection was high and necessitates appropriate patient selection and frequent monitoring.
Analysis of 17β‐estradiol, estriol and estrone in American eel (Anguilla rostrata) tissue samples using liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray differential ion mobility tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Cohen Alejandro , Ross Neil W. , Smith Paul M. , Fawcett James P.
Published: March 2017

Rationale

17β‐Estradiol (E2), estrone (E1) and estriol (E3) are steroid hormones responsible for the regulation of the female reproductive system. Estradiol is planned to be used to feminize eels in aquaculture in order to improve their size and marketability. The residual levels of these hormones in fish tissue must be monitored to meet the requirements of food regulatory agencies. Few studies have studied these hormones in complex biological matrices such as fish tissue.

Methods

We developed a method to analyze E1, E2 and E3 in fish tissue using liquid chromatography in combination with differential ion mobility spectrometry (DMS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). The mass spectrometer was operated in negative polarity selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode. To test the performance of this method, residual levels of E1, E2 and E3 were measured in the muscle tissue of juvenile eels subjected to feminization treatment with E2.

Results

We report that following 17β‐estradiol treatment, E2 is rapidly metabolized from the eel tissue, with a 50% depletion rate per day. Five days post‐treatment, E2 returned to the level found in non‐treated controls, similar to levels found in wild mature female eels.

Conclusions

The method presented herein allows the quantitative analysis of E1, E2 and E3 in fish tissue samples. Under the experimental conditions, E2 in fish tissue samples returned to physiological levels post hormonal treatment. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Transendocardial CD34+ Cell Transplantation on Diastolic Parameters in Patients with Nonischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bervar Mojca , Kozelj Mirta , Poglajen Gregor , Sever Matjaz , Zemljic Gregor , Frljak Sabina , Cukjati Marko , Cernelc Peter , Haddad François , Vrtovec Bojan
Published: March 2017

We sought to evaluate the physiological background and the effects of CD34+ cell transplantation on diastolic parameters in nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy patients (DCM). We enrolled 38 DCM patients with NYHA class III and LVEF < 40% who underwent transendocardial CD34+ cell transplantation. Peripheral blood CD34+ cells were mobilized by G-CSF, collected via apheresis, and injected transendocardially in the areas of myocardial hibernation. Patients were followed for 1 year. At baseline, estimated filling pressures were significantly elevated (E/e′ ≥ 15) in 18 patients (Group A), and moderately elevated (E/e ′< 15) in 20 patients (Group B). The groups did not differ in age (54 ± 9 years vs. 52 ± 10 years; p = .62), gender (male: 85% vs. 78%; p = .57), or LVEF (31 ± 7% vs. 34 ± 6%; p = .37). When compared to Group B patients in Group A had more segments with myocardial scar (4.9 ± 2.7 vs. 2.7 ± 2.9; p = .03), myocardial hibernation (2.2 ± 1.6 vs. 0.9 ± 1.1; p = .02), and longer average local relaxation time on electroanatomical mapping (378 ± 41 ms vs. 333 ± 34 ms, p = .01). During follow-up there was an improvement in diastolic parameters in Group A (E/e′: from 24.3 ± 12.1 to 16.3 ± 8.0; p = .005), but not in Group B (E/e′: from 10.2 ± 3.7 to 13.2 ± 9.1; p = .19). Accordingly, in Group A, we found an increase in 6-minute walk distance (from 463 ± 83 m to 546 ± 91 m; p = .03), and a decrease in NT-proBNP (from 2140 ± 1743 pg/ml to 863 ± 836 pg/ml; p = .02). In nonischemic DCM, diastolic dysfunction appears to correlate with areas of myocardial scar and hibernation. Transendocardial CD34+ cell transplantation may improve diastolic parameters in this patient cohort.