bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical and thalamic connectivity of temporal visual cortical areas 20a and 20b of the domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Dell Leigh‐Anne , Innocenti Giorgio M. , Hilgetag Claus C. , Manger Paul R.
Published: January 2019

The present study describes the ipsilateral and contralateral corticocortical and corticothalamic connectivity of the temporal visual areas 20a and 20b in the ferret using standard anatomical tract‐tracing methods. The two temporal visual areas are strongly interconnected, but area 20a is primarily connected to the occipital visual areas, whereas area 20b maintains more widespread connections with the occipital, parietal and suprasylvian visual areas and the secondary auditory cortex. The callosal connectivity, although homotopic, consists mainly of very weak anterograde labeling which was more widespread in area 20a than area 20b. Although areas 20a and 20b are well connected with the visual dorsal thalamus, the injection into area 20a resulted in more anterograde label, whereas more retrograde label was observed in the visual thalamus following the injection into area 20b. Most interestingly, comparisons to previous connectional studies of cat areas 20a and 20b reveal a common pattern of connectivity of the temporal visual cortex in carnivores, where the posterior parietal cortex and the central temporal region (PMLS) provide network points required for dorsal and ventral stream interaction enroute to integration in the prefrontal cortex. This pattern of network connectivity is not dissimilar to that observed in primates, which highlights the ferret as a useful animal model to understand visual sensory integration between the dorsal and ventral streams. The data generated will also contribute to a connectomics database, to facilitate cross species analysis of brain connectomes and wiring principles of the brain.
Importance of the color of light for the illumination of urban squares
Authors: Cabarkapa Aleksandra , Djokic Lidija
Published: January 2019

The objective of this article was to establish the significance of parameters relevant for urban square illumination, particularly those related with the color of light. Performed using a questionnaire and with 154 architecture students as respondents, the survey showed that the 18 parameters can be divided into two groups. The first group of 13 parameters refers to the overall impression, influencing the basic and most important lighting aims like safety, security, orientation, visual comfort, and amenity, whereas the second group includes parameters related to lighting features which may negatively influence the overall impression. The four parameters directly linked to the color of light were evaluated lower than expected, indicating that architecture students were probably translating their attitude toward color in architecture to color of light, thus underestimating this lighting parameter. The survey results also showed that female respondents are more sensitive to parameters, which affect safety and security.
A Photochromic Benzothiadiazole‐Diarylethene System with Tunable On/Off Fluorescence Modulation
Authors: Ziebart Nandor , Schröder Fanny , Rück‐Braun Karola
Published: January 2019

Organic molecules with photoswitchable emission properties are of interest in the optical devices field. We present herein in‐solution studies for two dimethoxydithienylethene‐fluorophore (DTE‐fluorophore) conjugates with a carboxylic acid anchor group attachable to semiconductor surfaces (DTE‐BODIPY and BTD‐DTE, where BTD=benzothiadiazole). Both conjugates show almost quantitative reversible photoisomerization between open (OF) and closed forms (CF). With excitation of the fluorophores, both conjugates emit fluorescence with highly solvent‐dependent OFs (BTD‐DTE>DTE‐BODIPY) and minor solvent‐dependent CFs. In the polar solvent MeCN for BTD‐DTE a TICT state is clearly observed, which will be located in the twisted conjugated structure of the benzoic acid‐BTD‐fluorophore‐methoxy‐thiophene unit. BTD‐DTE shows positive solvatofluorochromism with a decrease of fluorescence quantum yields by increasing the Lippert orientation polarizability function (Δf) verified in Lippert‐Mataga plots. This leads to solvent dependent on‐off/off‐on (CF‐OF) emission modulation by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) with well‐separated emission bands for BTD‐DTE.
Perylene Diimide‐Based Electron‐Transporting Material for Perovskite Solar Cells with Undoped Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) as Hole‐Transporting Material
Authors: Zou Ding , Yang Fafu , Zhuang Qixin , Zhu Mingguang , Chen Yunxiang , You Guofeng , Lin Zhenghuan , Zhen Hongyu , Ling Qidan
Published: January 2019

Perylene diimide‐based small molecules are widely used as intermediates of liquid crystals, owing to their high planarity and electron mobility. In this study, tetrachloroperylene diimide (TCl‐PDI) was used as a small‐molecule replacement for TiO2 as electron‐transporting material (ETM) for planar perovskite solar cells (PVSCs). Among hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) for PVSCs, poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) gives the devices the highest stability and reproducibility. Therefore, PVSCs with the structure of indium tin oxide (ITO)/ETM/perovskite/P3HT/MoO3/Ag were used to evaluate the performances of new ETMs. A reference device with compact TiO2 and P3HT gave a reasonable power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.78 %, whereas the PVSC with TCl‐PDI as ETM gave an enhanced PCE of 14.73 %, which is among the highest reported values for PVSCs with undoped P3HT as the HTM. Moreover, TCl‐PDI‐based devices displayed higher stability than those based on compact TiO2, owing to the superior perovskite quality.
Evaluation of hemiplegia caused by stroke by using joint detection of depth sensors—case of SIAS
Authors: Ohnishi Tomoya , Iwasaki Tomohiro , Tanaka Masahiro
Published: January 2019

Stroke Impairment Analysis Set (SIAS) is a set of evaluation methods of the hemiplegia body caused by stroke. The score of the test is made by visual examiners. However, the decisions are often different between them. Thus, the purpose of this study is to make an automatic evaluation system for the SIAS by using depth sensors. Kinect and Leap Motion are used to evaluate the proximal and distal upper extremity tests and the proximal lower extremity test in SIAS. The evaluation of these tests is based on the time difference of left and right cases, and the smoothness. If both of left and right motions are roughly the same and the motion is smooth enough, the score is 5, otherwise the score is decreased to between 4 and 0. The perfect match ratio between the system output and therapist judged is 65‐75% and it can be higher than this if similar judgments are partially added to the score. In experimental results, this system has been shown to yield reasonable scores for the knee‐mouth test, the finger test and the hip flexion test in motor function of SIAS.
Electromagnetic silicon MEMS resonator
Authors: Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Yahagi Toru , Abe Yutaka , Murayama Hiroki
Published: January 2019

We have fabricated a silicon MEMS resonator aiming at multimodal sensors, and evaluated vibration characteristics by electromagnetic drive and induced electromotive force detection. The resonance frequency of the driving voltage of 0.6 Vpp shows torsional vibration of approximately 87 kHz, and the resonance frequency is shifted toward the low‐frequency side as the driving voltage increases. Resonance characteristics due to temperature change and film stress were evaluated.
A Comparison of Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Clay Bricks Prepared with Three Different Pore‐Forming Additives: Vermiculite, Wood Ash, and Sawdust
Authors: Beal Betty , Selby Audriana , Atwater Colin , James Christina , Viens Christopher , Almquist Catherine
Published: January 2019

The thermal and mechanical properties of fired clay bricks containing three different pore‐forming additives at comparable concentrations (~25 wt %) were investigated. The additives included three types: inorganic (vermiculite), organic (sawdust), and ash (wood ash). These additives have very different pore‐forming mechanisms during the firing process and leave very different residuals in the fired brick. Brick properties are affected by the brick forming process (e.g., the raw materials, forming, drying, and firing processes), and so there is wide variation in the effects of additives on brick properties in the published literature. Therefore, the objective of this effort was to compare selected properties of fired clay bricks with different types of additives, while keeping the brick forming process the same. In this study, the trends in bulk density, porosity, water absorption, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity with incorporation of additives in clay bricks support those that have been published. However, the thermal conductivity of the brick with 25 wt % wood ash was comparable to that for the brick without additives, despite having greater porosity and lower bulk density. This supports that both the pores formed during the firing process and the residuals of the additives significantly impact the brick properties. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: e13150, 2019
Higher silver bioavailability after nanoparticle dietary exposure in marine amphipods
Authors: Vannuci-Silva Monizze , Cadore Solange , Henry Theodore B. , Umbuzeiro Gisela
Published: January 2019

On release into surface waters, engineered silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) tend to settle to sediments and, consequently, epibenthic fauna will be exposed to them through diet. We established Ag uptake and accumulation profiles over time in the hemolymph of a marine amphipod fed with a formulated feed containing AgNPs or AgCl. Silver bioavailability was higher in organisms exposed to AgNPs, indicating that the nanoparticles pose a higher risk of toxicity compared to similar concentrations of AgCl. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:806–810. © 2019 SETAC

Abstract

Ag uptake and accumulation profiles over time in the hemolymph of a marine amphipod after water exposure and dietary exposure with a formulated feed containing AgNPs or AgCl.
Synthesis and structure of bis(ethylenedioxy)‐1,4,5,8‐tetraselenanaphthalene
Authors: Watanabe Ryoji , Hasegawa Masashi , Iyoda Masahiko
Published: January 2019

Bis (ethylenedioxy)‐1,4,5,8‐tetraselenanaphthalene (BEDO‐TSeN) has been synthesized by the reaction of diselenolate with tetraiodoethylene or tetrabromoethylene. The structure of BEDO‐TSeN was determined by X‐ray analysis, and its π‐donor property was estimated by MO calculations and determined by CV analysis.
Social media technology for the strategic positioning of small and medium‐sized enterprises: Empirical evidence from Kenya
Authors: Ndiege Joshua Rumo Arongo
Published: January 2019

As the complexity of the market environment increases, so does the need for small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) to devise new innovative ways of strategically positioning themselves. Owing to resource constraints, it would be sensible for SMEs to adopt technologies that are relatively cheap and easily manageable, yet richly rewarding. Social media technology comes in handy in such scenarios; however, little is known about how SMEs are embracing this technology, especially in developing countries. This study presents the results of exploratory research conducted using semistructured interviews with 15 SME owners in Kenya. The findings suggest that social media technology appears to be particularly beneficial for supporting SMEs to position themselves better strategically. However, the adoption of such technologies in many cases has not been driven by a purposeful and thoughtful agenda, as external factors such as customers' and competitors' use of technology have influenced the initial adoption decision. Additionally, most of the SMEs are yet to fully exploit the capabilities of social media technology. The findings of this study not only advance an understanding of how the SMEs in developing countries are embracing social media technology but also offer an understanding of the strategies that SMEs can employ to enhance their social media experience for better strategic positioning.
“My Thoughts on Gun Violence”: An Urban Adolescent's Display of Agency and Multimodal Literacies
Authors: Lee Vera J. , Meloche Alysha , Grant Allen , Neuman Delia , Tecce DeCarlo Mary Jean
Published: January 2019

The authors analyzed the multimodal presentation of one student in a seventh‐grade social studies class situated in an urban charter school in the Northeastern United States. The student researched a specific problem that existed in his community and located solutions using web‐based sources. The authors analyzed the student's classwork, focus group interview, and final project using Gee's critical discourse analysis approach to examine the use of language tasks. The student used text, design, visual art, and music to build relationships, identity, meaning, and purpose. The findings revealed that the project supported his development of agency, technology use, and multimodal literacies as he purposefully and meaningfully communicated with his audience about the issue of gun violence that impacted his community.
Universal dental adhesives: Current status, laboratory testing, and clinical performance
Authors: Nagarkar Sanket , Theis‐Mahon Nicole , Perdigão Jorge
Published: January 2019

Increasing demand for simplified and user‐friendly adhesive systems has led to the development of a new class of adhesives termed as Universal Adhesives (UAs). The term “Universal” reflects manufacturers' claims that these adhesives can be applied with any adhesion strategy and offer the versatility of use with a variety of direct and indirect restorative materials. The aim of this review was to synthesize the literature regarding the current status of UAs, their adhesion potential to various substrates and their performance in different restorative situations. In vitro studies, clinical trials and systematic reviews were identified utilizing controlled vocabulary and keyword searches in Medline and EMBASE databases. About 282 studies (272 in vitro studies; 11 clinical studies) were included. Available laboratory and clinical evidence does not support the claim that UAs can be used with any adhesive strategy. Although, they can chemically bond to various tooth and direct/indirect restorative substrates, the stability of this bond is material‐dependent and subject to hydrolytic degradation. Hence, additional measures are still needed to ensure long‐term durability. which undermines the versatility of UAs. The lack of long‐term data regarding the clinical performance of UAs further complicates clinical decision‐making. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 2121–2131, 2019.
Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling of Acetaminophen and Metabolites in Children After Cardiac Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Mian P. , Valkenburg A.J. , Allegaert K. , Koch B.C.P. , Breatnach C.V. , Knibbe C.A.J. , Tibboel D. , Krekels E.H.J.
Published: January 2019

Children undergoing cardiac surgery often receive acetaminophen (paracetamol) as part of their postoperative pain treatment. To date, there is no information on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of acetaminophen in this special population, even though differences, as a result of altered hemodynamics and/or use of cardiopulmonary bypass, may be anticipated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the PK of intravenous acetaminophen in children after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. In the study, both children with and without Down syndrome were included. A population PK analysis, using NONMEM 7.2, was performed based on 161 concentrations of acetaminophen, acetaminophen sulfate, acetaminophen glucuronide, and oxidative metabolites from 17 children with Down syndrome and 13 children without Down syndrome of a previously published study (median age, 177 days [range, 92–944], body weight, 6.1 kg [4.0–12.9]). All children received 3 intravenous acetaminophen doses of 7.5 mg/kg (<10 kg) or 15 mg/kg (≥10 kg) at 8–hour intervals after cardiac surgery. For acetaminophen and its metabolites, 1‐compartment models were identified. Clearance of acetaminophen and metabolites increased linearly with body weight. Acetaminophen clearance in a typical child of 6.1 kg is 0.96 L/h and volume of distribution 7.96 L. Down syndrome did not statistically significantly impact any of the PK parameters for acetaminophen, nor did any other remaining covariate. When comparing the PK parameters of acetaminophen in children after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass with those from children of the same age following noncardiac surgery reported in the literature, clearance of acetaminophen was lower and volume of distribution higher.
Immuno‐detection of mRNA‐binding protein complex in human cells under transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Ma Qingfeng , Tatsuno Takanori , Nakamura Yuka , Izumi Shin‐Ichi , Tomosugi Naohisa , Ishigaki Yasuhito
Published: January 2019

Transit from the nuclear complex to the cytoplasm through the nuclear pore complex permits modification of mRNA, including processing such as splicing, capping, and polyadenylation, etc. At each of these events, mRNA interacts with various proteins to form mRNA‐protein complex. Visualizing the mRNA is crucial for understanding the mechanisms underlying mRNA processing and elucidating its structure and recent advances in mRNA imaging allow detection of real‐time mRNA localization in living cells. However, these techniques revealed only the location of mRNA but cannot visualize the conformation of mRNA‐protein complex in cells. On the other hand, transmission electron microscopy has been used to visualize the structure of the Balbiani ring‐derived large mRNA, but their observations were limited to the insect cells. In this study, we visualized the structure of mRNA‐protein complex in human culture cells by using immuno‐electron microscopy. Through immuno‐detection, an mRNA exon junction binding complex Y14, and its binding protien Upf2, different gold particle patterns were imaged with transmission electron microscopy and analyzed. Characteristic linear and stacked particle orientation were observed. Across the nuclear membrane, only linear aggregation pattern was observed, whereas the stacked aggregation pattern was detected in the cytoplasm. Our method is able to visualize mRNA‐conformation and applicable to many cell types, including mammalian cells, where genes can easily be manipulated.
Review: Evolution and diversification of corneous beta‐proteins, the characteristic epidermal proteins of reptiles and birds
Authors: Holthaus Karin Brigit , Eckhart Leopold , Dalla Valle Luisa , Alibardi Lorenzo
Published: January 2019

In all amniotes specialized intermediate filament keratins (IF‐keratins), in addition to keratin‐associated and corneous proteins form the outermost cornified layer of the epidermis. Only in reptiles and birds (sauropsids) the epidermis of scales, claws, beaks, and feathers, largely comprises small proteins formerly indicated as “beta‐keratins” but here identified as corneous beta‐proteins (CBPs) to avoid confusion with true keratins. Genes coding for CBPs have evolved within the epidermal differentiation complex (EDC), a locus with no relationship with those of IF‐keratins. CBP genes have the same exon–intron structure as EDC genes encoding other corneous proteins of sauropsids and mammals, but they are unique by encoding a peculiar internal amino acid sequence motif beta‐sheet region that allows formation of CBP filaments in the epidermis and epidermal appendages of reptiles and birds. In contrast, skin appendages of mammals, like hairs, claws, horns and nails, contain keratin‐associated proteins that, like IF‐keratin genes, are encoded by genes in loci different from the EDC. Phylogenetic analysis shows that lepidosaurian (lizards and snakes) and nonlepidosaurian (crocodilians, birds, and turtles) CBPs form two separate clades that likely originated after the divergence of these groups of sauropsids in the Permian Period. Clade‐specific CBPs evolved to make most of the corneous material of feathers in birds and of the shell in turtles. Based on the recent identification of the complete sets of CBPs in all major phylogenetic clades of sauropsids, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular evolution of CBPs.
Primary care referral for knee MRI in the United Kingdom: Association with demography and subsequent surgical intervention
Authors: Jayaram Prem R. , Sun Julia , Coombes Emma , Mackay James , Kasmai Bahman , McNamara Iain , Jones Andrew P. , Denton Erika R.E. , Toms Andoni P.
Published: January 2019

Background

Since 2008 primary care physicians (GPs) in our region have been allowed open access to knee MRI scans. There are questions about whether this changes referral practice and if it is an effective use of resources.

Purpose

To describe the change in demographics of patients referred for knee MRI following implementation of a new referral pathway.

Study Type

Retrospective observational study.

Population

All primary care referrals between 2008 and 2015 for knee MRI from a population of 900,000.

Field Strength/Sequence

Not applicable.

Assessment

Demographic profile and number of knee MRI referrals and subsequent arthroscopies.

Statistical Tests

Comparisons between urban and rural populations used the t‐test. Test for normality used Shapiro–Wilks. Comparison between abnormal MRI proportions used a chi‐squared test.

Results

There were 23,928 knee MRI referrals (10,695 from GPs) between 2000 and 2015. MRI knee referrals rose from 210 in 2008 to 2379 in 2015. The average age of the patient decreased from 46.8 (SD = 14.9) in 2008 to 41.3 (SD = 14.7) in 2015. Conversion to arthroscopy declined from 15.4% to 10.2%, but there was no significant change in abnormal scan proportion. Conversion rates showed no significant difference between rural (9.6%) and urban populations (10.5%). Referral rates were significantly higher in low socioeconomic status areas (47.3% vs. 34.6%). The median referral rate per 1000 patients was 13.8 (interquartile range = 8.4). Referral rates varied widely between practices.

Data Conclusion

Despite a large rise in knee MRI referrals from primary care, there has been no substantial change in the age profile, suggesting that there has been no increase in inappropriate referral of elderly patients in whom MRI is unlikely to influence management. A modest decrease in the conversion rate to arthroscopy may be reasonably offset against a decrease in secondary care referrals. Socioeconomic status of the target population must be considered when planning primary care knee MRI services.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy Stage: 6

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019.
Liver R2* is affected by both iron and fat: A dual biopsy‐validated study of chronic liver disease
Authors: Karlsson Markus , Ekstedt Mattias , Dahlström Nils , Forsgren Mikael F. , Ignatova Simone , Norén Bengt , Dahlqvist Leinhard Olof , Kechagias Stergios , Lundberg Peter
Published: January 2019

Background

Liver iron content (LIC) in chronic liver disease (CLD) is currently determined by performing an invasive liver biopsy. MRI using R2* relaxometry is a noninvasive alternative for estimating LIC. Fat accumulation in the liver, or proton density fat fraction (PDFF), may be a possible confounder of R2* measurements. Previous studies of the effect of PDFF on R2* have not used quantitative LIC measurement.

Purpose

To assess the associations between R2*, LIC, PDFF, and liver histology in patients with suspected CLD.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Eighty‐one patients with suspected CLD.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T. Multiecho turbo field echo to quantify R2*. PRESS MRS to quantify PDFF.

Assessment

Each patient underwent an MR examination, followed by two needle biopsies immediately following the MR examination. The first biopsy was used for conventional histological assessment of LIC, whereas the second biopsy was used to quantitatively measure LIC using mass spectrometry. R2* was correlated with both LIC and PDFF. A correction for the influence of fat on R2* was calculated.

Statistical Tests

Pearson correlation, linear regression, and area under the receiver operating curve.

Results

There was a positive linear correlation between R2* and PDFF (R = 0.69), after removing data from patients with elevated iron levels, as defined by LIC. R2*, corrected for PDFF, was the best method for identifying patients with elevated iron levels, with a correlation of R = 0.87 and a sensitivity and specificity of 87.5% and 98.6%, respectively.

Data Conclusion

PDFF increases R2*.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:325–333.
Patient respiratory‐triggered quantitative T2 mapping in the pancreas
Authors: Vietti Violi Naïk , Hilbert Tom , Bastiaansen Jessica A.M. , Knebel Jean‐Francois , Ledoux Jean‐Baptiste , Stemmer Alto , Meuli Reto , Kober Tobias , Schmidt Sabine
Published: January 2019

Background

Long acquisition times and motion sensitivity limit T2 mapping in the abdomen. Accelerated mapping at 3 T may allow for quantitative assessment of diffuse pancreatic disease in patients during free‐breathing.

Purpose

To test the feasibility of respiratory‐triggered quantitative T2 analysis in the pancreas and correlate T2‐values with age, body mass index, pancreatic location, main pancreatic duct dilatation, and underlying pathology.

Study Type

Retrospective single‐center pilot study.

Population

Eighty‐eight adults.

Field Strength/Sequence

Ten‐fold accelerated multiecho‐spin‐echo 3 T MRI sequence to quantify T2 at 3 T.

Assessment

Two radiologists independently delineated three regions of interest inside the pancreatic head, body, and tail for each acquisition. Means and standard deviations for T2 values in these regions were determined. T2‐value variation with demographic data, intraparenchymal location, pancreatic duct dilation, and underlying pancreatic disease was assessed.

Statistical Tests

Interreader reliability was determined by calculating the interclass coefficient (ICCs). T2 values were compared for different pancreatic locations by analysis of variance (ANOVA). Interpatient associations between T2 values and demographical, clinical, and radiological data were calculated (ANOVA).

Results

The accelerated T2 mapping sequence was successfully performed in all participants (mean acquisition time, 2:48 ± 0:43 min). Low T2 value variability was observed across all patients (intersubject) (head: 60.2 ± 8.3 msec, body: 63.9 ± 11.5 msec, tail: 66.8 ± 16.4 msec). Interreader agreement was good (ICC, 0.82, 95% confidence interval: 0.77–0.86). T2‐values differed significantly depending on age (P < 0.001), location (P < 0.001), main pancreatic duct dilatation (P < 0.001), and diffuse pancreatic disease (P < 0.03).

Data Conclusion

The feasibility of accelerated T2 mapping at 3 T in moving abdominal organs was demonstrated in the pancreas, since T2 values were stable and reproducible. In the pancreatic parenchyma, T2‐values were significantly dependent on demographic and clinical parameters.

Level of Evidence: 4

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:410–416.
Rapid automated liver quantitative susceptibility mapping
Authors: Jafari Ramin , Sheth Sujit , Spincemaille Pascal , Nguyen Thanh D. , Prince Martin R. , Wen Yan , Guo Yihao , Deh Kofi , Liu Zhe , Margolis Daniel , Brittenham Gary M. , Kierans Andrea S. , Wang Yi
Published: January 2019

Background

Accurate measurement of the liver iron concentration (LIC) is needed to guide iron‐chelating therapy for patients with transfusional iron overload. In this work, we investigate the feasibility of automated quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) to measure the LIC.

Purpose

To develop a rapid, robust, and automated liver QSM for clinical practice.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

13 healthy subjects and 22 patients.

Field Strength/Sequences

1.5 T and 3 T/3D multiecho gradient‐recalled echo (GRE) sequence.

Assessment

Data were acquired using a 3D GRE sequence with an out‐of‐phase echo spacing with respect to each other. All odd echoes that were in‐phase (IP) were used to initialize the fat‐water separation and field estimation (T2*‐IDEAL) before performing QSM. Liver QSM was generated through an automated pipeline without manual intervention. This IP echo‐based initialization method was compared with an existing graph cuts initialization method (simultaneous phase unwrapping and removal of chemical shift, SPURS) in healthy subjects (n = 5). Reproducibility was assessed over four scanners at two field strengths from two manufacturers using healthy subjects (n = 8). Clinical feasibility was evaluated in patients (n = 22).

Statistical Tests

IP and SPURS initialization methods in both healthy subjects and patients were compared using paired t‐test and linear regression analysis to assess processing time and region of interest (ROI) measurements. Reproducibility of QSM, R2*, and proton density fat fraction (PDFF) among the four different scanners was assessed using linear regression, Bland–Altman analysis, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

Liver QSM using the IP method was found to be ~5.5 times faster than SPURS (P < 0.05) in initializing T2*‐IDEAL with similar outputs. Liver QSM using the IP method were reproducibly generated in all four scanners (average coefficient of determination 0.95, average slope 0.90, average bias 0.002 ppm, 95% limits of agreement between –0.06 to 0.07 ppm, ICC 0.97).

Data Conclusion

Use of IP echo‐based initialization enables robust water/fat separation and field estimation for automated, rapid, and reproducible liver QSM for clinical applications.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:725–732.
Optimization of CRT programming using non‐invasive electrocardiographic imaging to assess the acute electrical effects of multipoint pacing
Authors: Sieniewicz Benjamin J. , Jackson Tom , Claridge Simon , Pereira Helder , Gould Justin , Sidhu Baldeep , Porter Bradley , Niederer Steve , Yao Cheng , Rinaldi Christopher A.
Published: January 2019

Aim

Quadripolar lead technology and multi‐point pacing (MPP) are important clinical adjuncts in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) pacing aimed at reducing the rate of non‐response to therapy. Mixed results have been achieved using MPP and it is critical to identify which patients require this approach and how to configure their MPP stimulation, in order to achieve optimal electrical resynchronization.

Methods & Results

We sought to investigate whether electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi), using the CARDIOINSIGHT™ inverse ECG mapping system, could identify alterations in electrical resynchronization during different methods of device optimization. In no patient did a single form of programming optimization provide the best electrical response. The effects of utilizing MPP were idiosyncratic and highly patient specific. ECGi activation maps were clearly able to discern changes in bulk LV activation during differing MPP programming. In two of the five subjects, MPP resulted in more rapid activation of the left ventricle compared to standard CRT; however, in the remaining three patients, the use of MPP did not appear to acutely improve electrical resynchronization. Crucially, this cohort showed evidence of extensive LV scarring which was well visualized using both CMR and ECGi voltage mapping.

Conclusions

Our work suggests a potential role for ECGi in the optimization of non‐responders to CRT, as it allows the fusion of activation maps and scar analysis above and beyond interrogation of the 12 lead ECG.
Photodynamic therapy versus systemic antibiotic for the treatment of periodontitis in a rat model
Authors: Zhang Jianxing , Liang Hui , Zheng Yixin , Wang Dongcai , Xia Jiang , Peng Wenming , Cheng Kangjie , Wang Lianfei , Liu Yunfeng , Peng Wei , Li Qingyong
Published: January 2019

Background

To compare the therapeutic effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with Toluidine blue O hydrogel versus systemic antibiotic (SA) in treating periodontitis on rats.

Methods

Thirty‐two Wistar rats were divided into four groups and treated differently: Negative control (NC) group, normal rats; positive control (PC) group, rats with periodontitis; SA group, rats with periodontitis treated with systemic antibiotic; PDT group, rats with periodontitis treated with PDT. After treatment, gingival sulcus bacterial load was measured by counting the colony forming units per milliliter (CFU mL−1). The tooth and periodontal tissues were histologically processed to analyze histological and immunohistochemical profile. Gingival samples were obtained to quantify interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) levels.

Results

Gingival sulcus bacteria load is significantly lower in PDT group compared with the SA group. The histological analysis showed that some extremely effective repair signs of periodontal tissue were presented in PDT group, such as no periodontal pocket, no bone resorption, few inflammatory cells, massive fibroblasts and collagen fibers. Several effective repair signs of periodontal tissue were also observed in SA group, such as shallow periodontal pocket, small amount of inflammatory cells, substantial fibroblasts and collagen fibers. There were lower cyclooxygenase‐2, matrix metalloproteinase ‐8 (MMP‐8) and RANK immunolabeling, higher osteoprotegerin immunolabeling in PDT group compared with SA group. The IL‐1β and TNF‐α levels in PDT group were lower than those in NC group, but higher than those in SA group.

Conclusion

PDT was effective to treat experimental periodontitis and was superior to systemic metronidazole as a treatment for periodontitis.
Financing new creative enterprise through blockchain technology: Opportunities and policy implications
Authors: O'Dair M , Owen R
Published: January 2019

Blockchain technology represents an emerging source of venture capital crowdfunding for creative ventures, specifically in the music industry. Although music streaming is often portrayed as a success story, the internet has in fact been something of a false dawn for the recorded music industry—particularly for emerging musicians. New music ventures might obtain alternative entrepreneurial finance through token sales or Initial Coin Offerings. Policymakers can play a role in developing this form of seed finance for the creative industries and beyond.
The role of government venture capital funds: Recent lessons from the U.K. experience
Authors: Owen Robyn , North David , Mac an Bhaird Ciaran
Published: January 2019

U.K. Government Venture Capital (GVC)‐backed schemes have evolved to provide more effective targeted funding for high growth potential firms, but policy designers should be cognizant of the changing external financing ecosystem when designing co‐investment schemes. We investigate the effectiveness of government backed venture capital schemes (GVCs) in funding early stage entrepreneurial ventures. Addressing fundamental issues of additionality, crowding out, economic impact, and sustainability, we discover that U.K. GVC‐backed schemes have evolved to provide more effective targeted funding for high growth potential firms. Combining primary data from a number of sources, we discover positive impacts of increase in turnover and employment in funded ventures, along with effective targeting of specific funding gaps. Significant issues remain, including a lack of liquidity in follow‐on funding and a requirement for longer time horizon in funds, as firms typically fall behind in development schedules. There is, therefore, a need for greater flexibility in GVC‐backed funds. Policy designers should be cognizant of the changing external financing ecosystem when designing co‐investment schemes.
Self‐ and other‐evaluative moral emotions in prosocial contexts: A comparison of Chinese and Canadian adolescents
Authors: Jia Fanli , Li Lihong , Krettenauer Tobias
Published: January 2019

This study investigated adolescents’ self‐ and other‐evaluative moral emotions in prosocial contexts across cultures (Chinese and Canadian). The sample consisted of 341 adolescents from three age groups: early adolescents (Grade 7–8), middle adolescents (Grade 10–11), and late adolescents (1st–2nd‐year university). Approximately equal numbers of participants were recruited across genders, age groups, and cultures. Participants were presented eight different scenarios depicting the self or others in prosocial contexts. Moral emotions were assessed following each scenario by asking participants to rate the intensity of both self‐evaluative (pride, satisfaction, guilt, and shame) and other‐evaluative (admiration, respect, anger, and contempt) moral emotions. The results indicated that Chinese early adolescents rated more intense other‐evaluative emotions than the same age group in Canada. Chinese middle and late adolescents rated less intense self‐evaluative emotions than the same age groups in Canada. Overall, the results revealed both cultural differences and similarities in self‐ and other‐evaluative moral emotions. The present study also suggests a cross‐cultural investigation of moral emotion from a developmental perspective.
Analyzing Cysteine Site Neighbors in Proteins to Reveal Dimethyl Fumarate Targets
Authors: Rosa Arianna Carolina , Benetti Elisa , Gallicchio Margherita , Boscaro Valentina , Cangemi Luigi , Dianzani Chiara , Miglio Gianluca
Published: January 2019

This work proposes a novel approach by which to consistently classify cysteine sites in proteins in terms of their reactivity toward dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and fumarate. Dimethyl fumarate‐based drug products have been approved for use as oral treatments for psoriasis and relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis. The adduction of DMF and its (re)active metabolites to certain cysteine residues in proteins is thought to underlie their effects. However, only a few receptors for these compounds have been discovered to date. Our approach takes advantage of the growing number of known DMF‐ and fumarate‐sensitive proteins and sites to perform analyses by combining the concepts of network theory, for protein structure analyses, and machine‐learning procedures. Wide‐ranging and previously unforeseen variety is found in the analysis of the neighborhood composition (the first neighbors) of cysteine sites found in DMF‐ and fumarate‐sensitive proteins. Furthermore, neighborhood composition has shown itself to be a network‐type attribute that is endowed with remarkable predictive power when distinct classification algorithms are employed. In conclusion, when adopted in combination with other target identification/validation approaches, methods that are based on the analysis of cysteine site neighbors in proteins should provide useful information by which to decipher the mode of action of DMF‐based drugs.
Synthesis and characterization of cyclic P3HT as a donor polymer for organic solar cells
Authors: Fukushima Tatsuya , Ishibashi Hirotaka , Suemasa Daichi , Nakamura Ryosuke , Yomogida Masanobu , Isono Takuya , Satoh Toshifumi , Kaji Hironori
Published: January 2019

In this study, cyclic poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (c‐P3HT) with a controlled Mn was synthesized by the intramolecular cyclization of α‐bromo‐ω‐ethynyl‐functionalized P3HT via the Sonogashira coupling reaction. The effect of the cyclic structure, which does not have terminal groups of polymers, on the photoelectric conversion characteristics was investigated in comparison to linear P3HT (l‐P3HT). c‐P3HT was successfully synthesized with Mn ≈ 17,000, dispersity ≈ 1.2, and regioregularity ≈ 99%. The hole mobility was determined to be 5.1 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1 by time‐of‐flight (TOF) experiment. This was comparable to that of l‐P3HT of 5.6 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1. Organic solar cell systems were fabricated with each polymer by blending them with [6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM). The l‐P3HT:PC71BM system showed a dispersive TOF photocurrent profile for electron transport, whereas a nondispersive profile was observed for c‐P3HT:PC71BM. In addition, an amount of collected electrons in c‐P3HT:PC71BM was greater than that in l‐P3HT:PC71BM for TOF experiments. The photoelectric conversion characteristics were improved by using c‐P3HT rather than l‐P3HT (power conversion efficiency [PCE] = 4.05% vs 3.23%), reflecting the nondispersive transport and the improvement of electron collection. PCEs will be much improved by applying this cyclic concept to highly‐efficient OSC polymers. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 266–271
Multiplexed LC–ESI–MRM‐MS‐based Assay for Identification of Coronary Artery Disease Biomarkers in Human Plasma
Authors: Anwar Mohammad A. , Dai Darlene Liying , Wilson‐McManus Janet , Smith Derek , Francis Gordon A. , Borchers Christoph H , McManus Bruce M. , Hill John S. , Cohen Freue Gabriela V.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

A highly‐multiplexed LC–ESI–multiple reaction monitoring‐MS‐based assay is developed for the identification of coronary artery disease (CAD) biomarkers in human plasma.

Experimental design

The assay is used to measure 107 stable isotope labeled peptide standards and native peptides from 64 putative biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases in tryptic digests of plasma from subjects with (n= 70) and without (n= 45) angiographic evidence of CAD and no subsequent cardiovascular mortality during follow‐up.

Results

Extensive computational and statistical analysis reveals six plasma proteins associated with CAD, namely apolipoprotein CII, C reactive protein, CD5 antigen‐like, fibronectin, inter alpha trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H1, and protein S. The identified proteins are combined into a LASSO‐logistic score with high classification performance (cross‐validated area under the curve = 0.74). When combined with a separate score computed from markers currently used in the clinic with similar performance, the area under the receiver operating curve increases to 0.84. Similar results are observed in an independent set of subjects (n= 87).

Conclusions and clinical relevance

If externally validated, the assay and identified biomarkers can improve CAD risk stratification.
The Role of Al Reaction Rate in the Damage Effect and Energy Output of RDX‐Based Aluminized Explosives in Concrete
Authors: Zhou Zhengqing , Chen Jianguo , Yuan Hongyong , Nie Jianxin
Published: January 2019

This paper aims to improve the understanding of how the aluminum reaction rate affects the damage effect and energy output of RDX‐based aluminized explosives in concrete. A calculation method for the dynamic response of concrete and energy output of RDX‐based aluminized explosive is proposed based on the time‐dependent Jones‐Wilkins‐Lee equation of state (JWL‐EOS), cavity expansion model and energy partition theory, which is in turn verified through experiments with 70 g RDX/Al/wax (65 %/30 %/5 %) charge embedded in concrete. Based on the proposed method, the dynamic response of concrete and energy output of RDX/Al/wax with four different aluminum reaction rates were calculated. The results indicate a positive correlation between the crushed region radius and the aluminum reaction rate, and that the cracked region radius is inversely proportional to the aluminum reaction rate. For the energy output of RDX/Al/wax, the shock wave energy grows with increasing aluminum reaction rate, while the detonation products expansion energy increases and then drops with rising aluminum reaction rate, peaking at 2.37 MJ/kg when the Al reaction rate constant M=0.02. The calculation method presented in this paper are of great significance for investigating and improving the performance of RDX‐based aluminized explosives in concrete.
A Rapid and Sensitive Quantitative Analysis Method for TNT using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Gao Feng , Liu Wenfang , Meng Zihui , Su Pengfei , Li Zhixue , Wang Minghui
Published: January 2019

Raman spectroscopy as a rapid and sensitive qualitative detection method has been applied in many fields; however, it is rarely used for the quantitative purpose due to poor reproducibility of peak area. Here, 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) and its two byproducts, 2,4‐dinitrotoluence (DNT) and 2,6‐DNT, were firstly qualitatively analyzed by Raman spectroscopy and the characteristic parameters were extracted. Then, in the range of 2 %–9 % and 10 %–90 %, the standard curves were established between the area ratio of the characteristic peaks and the content of 2,4‐DNT or 2,6‐DNT using silver nanoflowers as the enhancing substrate. The fitting correlation for TNT/2,4‐DNT or TNT/2,6‐DNT system is around 0.99. The peak area ratio of the components exhibits much better dada reproducibility than peak area, and the relative error does not exceed 9.3 % for at least six groups of parallel experiments.
New Constraints on Classical de Sitter: Flirting with the Swampland
Authors: Andriot David
Published: January 2019

We study the existence and stability of classical de Sitter solutions of type II supergravities with parallel ‐branes and orientifold ‐planes. Together with the dilaton and volume scalar fields, we consider a third one that distinguishes between parallel and transverse directions to the . We derive the complete scalar potential for these three fields. This formalism allows us to reproduce known constraints obtained in 10d, and to derive new ones. Specifying to group manifolds with constant fluxes, we exclude a large region of parameter space, forbidding de Sitter solutions on nilmanifolds, semi‐simple group manifolds, and some solvmanifolds (at least in some standard algebra basis). In the small remaining region, we identify a stability island, where the three scalars could be stabilized in any de Sitter solution. We discuss these results in the swampland context.
Triazolide strigolactone mimics as potent selective germinators of parasitic plant Phelipanche ramosa
Authors: Dvorakova Marcela , Hylova Adela , Soudek Petr , Petrova Sarka , Spichal Lukas , Vanek Tomas
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Strigolactones are a unique class of plant metabolites which serve as a rhizosphere signal for parasitic plants and evocate their seed germination. The expansion of these parasitic weeds in the food crop fields urgently calls for their increased control and depletion. Simple strigolactone analogues able to stimulate seed germination of these parasitic plants may represent an efficient control measure through the induction of suicidal germination.

RESULTS

Triazolide‐type strigolactone mimics were easily synthesized in three steps from commercially available materials. These derivatives induced effectively seed germination of Phelipanche ramosa with EC50 as low as 5.2 × 10−10 M. These mimics did not induce seed germination of Striga hermonthica even at high concentration (≥1 × 10−5 M).

CONCLUSIONS

Simple and stable strigolactone mimics with selective activity against Phelipanche ramosa were synthesized. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry