bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous Flow Fabrication of Block Copolymer–Grafted Silica Micro‐Particles in Environmentally Friendly Water/Ethanol Media
Authors: Ye Piaoran , Cao Peng‐Fei , Chen Qiyi , Advincula Rigoberto
Published: October 2018

Polymer‐grafted inorganic particles (PGIPs) are attractive building blocks for numerous chemical and material applications. Surface‐initiated controlled radical polymerization (SI‐CRP) is the most feasible method to fabricate PGIPs. However, a conventional in‐batch reaction still suffers from several disadvantages, including time‐consuming purification processes, low grafting efficiency, and possible gelation problems. Herein, a facile method is demonstrated to synthesize block copolymer–grafted inorganic particles, that is, poly(poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) (PPEGMEMA)‐b‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM)–grafted silica micro‐particles using continuous flow chemistry in an environmentally friendly aqueous media. Immobilizing the chain transfer agent and subsequent SI‐CRP can be accomplished sequentially in a continuous flow system, avoiding multi‐step purification processes in between. The chain length (MW) of the grafted polymers is tunable by adjusting the flow time or monomer concentration, and the narrower molar mass dispersity (Ð < 1.4) of the grafted polymers reveals the uniform polymer chains on the particles. Moreover, compared with the in‐batch reaction at the same condition, the continuous system also suppresses possible gelation problems.
Carbohydrate‐Based Polymer Brushes Prevent Viral Adsorption on Electrostatically Heterogeneous Interfaces
Authors: Kumar Ramya , Kratzer Domenic , Cheng Kenneth , Prisby Julia , Sugai James , Giannobile William V. , Lahann Joerg
Published: October 2018

Chemical heterogeneity on biomaterial surfaces can transform its interfacial properties, rendering nanoscale heterogeneity profoundly consequential during bioadhesion. To examine the role played by chemical heterogeneity in the adsorption of viruses on synthetic surfaces, a range of novel coatings is developed wherein a tunable mixture of electrostatic tethers for viral binding, and carbohydrate brushes, bearing pendant α‐mannose, β‐galactose, or β‐glucose groups, is incorporated. The effects of binding site density, brush composition, and brush architecture on viral adsorption, with the goal of formulating design specifications for virus‐resistant coatings are experimentally evaluated. It is concluded that virus‐coating interactions are shaped by the interplay between brush architecture and binding site density, after quantifying the adsorption of adenoviruses, influenza, and fibrinogen on a library of carbohydrate brushes co‐immobilized with different ratios of binding sites. These insights will be of utility in guiding the design of polymer coatings in realistic settings where they will be populated with defects.
On computing highly robust efficient solutions
Authors: Dranichak Garrett M. , Wiecek Margaret M.
Published: October 2018

Due to the real‐life issue of decision making in the presence of uncertainty and multiple conflicting objectives, it is of interest to solve optimization problems that incorporate these two aspects. To address this type of problem, we undertake the computation of highly robust efficient solutions to uncertain multiobjective linear programs with objective‐wise uncertainty in the cost matrix coefficients, and we address unbounded feasible regions as well as unbounded uncertainty sets. We provide methods for checking whether or not the highly robust efficient set is empty, computing highly robust efficient points, and determining whether a given solution of interest is highly robust efficient. An application in the area of bank management is included.
Performance analysis of a 3D unidirectional antenna opted for biomedical microwave imaging
Authors: Ullah Md. Amanath , Alam Touhidul , Islam Mohammad Tariqul
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a reflector type unidirectional 3D antenna for biomedical microwave imaging has been presented. A reflector wall perpendicular to the ground plane has been introduced to achieve higher gain and directive radiation pattern. Bending technique is utilized to reduce the overall antenna size and to get resonance at a lower frequency. The proposed antenna obtained measured operating band at 2.37 GHz to 3.70 GHz. The dimension of the 3D radiating structure is 30 × 10 × 17 mm3. The antenna has a peak realized gain of 4.52 dB. Unidirectional radiation pattern and gain within lower microwave frequency, make the proposed antenna a potential candidate to be used in microwave imaging for biomedical diagnosis. The design and simulation process are performed in the CST Microwave Studio software. The antenna is fabricated from 0.2 mm thick copper sheets. PNA Network Analyzer (N5227A) and Satimo Nearfield Measurement system has been used to measure the performance of the fabricated prototype.
Antenna‐based solutions for RF probes in ultra high field magnetic resonance imaging scanners
Authors: Gandji Navid P. , Semouchkin George , Semouchkina Elena
Published: October 2018

Various approaches to designing unconventional antenna‐based RF probes for obtaining homogeneous 600 MHz B1 magnetic field in 14 T MRI scanners are investigated. Proposed solutions include microstrip patch antennas with engineered multidielectric substrates, acting as surface coils, and systems of vis‐à‐vis placed patch antennas to be used as volume coils with essentially increased Q‐factors compared to those of birdcage coils. Various options of controlling magnetic near fields in antenna systems with flat, cylindrical and cosine‐shaped substrates, as well as with tapered patch electrodes, are demonstrated. Problems of fabricating unconventional microstrip patch antennas for MRI applications are also addressed.
Performance enhancement of a microstrip patch antenna using dual‐layer frequency‐selective surface for ISM band applications
Authors: Belen Mehmet A.
Published: October 2018

A microstrip patch antenna working at 2.4 GHz at ISM band is presented in this work by employing an altered anchor‐shaped dual‐layer frequency‐selective surface (DLFSS) on a microstrip substrate. Both the traditional method and the proposed one are shown in order to show the advantage of employing this DLFSS structure. In the new technique, simulations and design optimizations of the antennas and FSS structure are undertaken on a low‐cost FR4 substrate with εr = 4.4, h = 1.58 mm and tanδ = 0.0035 in the given 3D CST MSW setting. The traditional FSS technique of the same configuration is also used in the same setting and the outcome of the antenna performance with and without DLFSS is replicated and compared. The results show that the measurements given by the suggested new model are in synchronization with the theoretical results and prove that they have greater gain and beam width at 2.4 GHz bandwidth; they also show improved return loss.
A high‐frequency, low‐coupling 8‐shaped differential inductor with patterned ground shield
Authors: Ichihashi Masahiro , Kanaya Haruichi
Published: October 2018

A high‐frequency, low‐coupling 8‐shaped differential inductor with patterned ground shield (PGS) is presented in this paper. The differential structure formed by two single‐inductors in stepping order makes high‐fSR (self‐resonant‐frequency) possible and it also suppresses the far‐field magnetic coupling. A PGS structure not only maximizes the Q‐factor but also improves simulation time and accuracy of EM‐simulation. The test chip is implemented in TSMC 0.18um 1‐poly, 6‐metal CMOS process and the measurement results showed good match with EM‐simulation.
Broad‐band angle insensitive frequency‐selective surface with multiple resonant modes
Authors: Zhao Zhen‐Zhen , Li Wei , Chen Xiao‐Ming , Chen Jian‐Zhong , Shi Hong‐Yu , Li Jian‐Xing , Zhu Shi‐Tao , Zhang An‐Xue
Published: October 2018

In this work, a broadband frequency selective surface (FSS), which is insensitive to incident angle is designed. This FSS is composed of three metallic layers and two identical dielectric layers. The top and bottom layers are two identical metal patches, while the middle layer is a slot structure etched in a metal screen. This FSS achieves a broadband pass‐band response from 9.8 to 20.8 GHz by combining different resonant modes at 12.6, 15.2, and 19.2 GHz, respectively. Meanwhile, this FSS can still function properly at up to 60° oblique incidence for TE polarization, which is attributed to the independence of incident angle of the middle slot layer and miniaturization of the whole structure. In addition, two key parameters (that are of great importance in adjusting flatness of the pass‐band) of the FSS element have been studied. A prototype of the FSS was manufactured and measured. Good agreements between measurements and simulations are observed.
Part II: Verification of the TrueBeam head shielding model in Varian VirtuaLinac via out‐of‐field doses
Authors: Wijesooriya Krishni , Liyanage Nilanga K. , Kaluarachchi Maduka , Sawkey Daren
Published: October 2018

Purpose

A good Monte Carlo model with an accurate head shielding model is important in estimating the long‐term risks of unwanted radiation exposure during radiation therapy. The aim of this paper was to validate the Monte Carlo simulation of a TrueBeam linear accelerator (linac) head shielding model. We approach this by evaluating the accuracy of out‐of‐field dose predictions at extended distances which are comprised of scatter from within the patient and treatment head leakage and thus reflect the accuracy of the head shielding model. We quantify the out‐of‐field dose of a TrueBeam linac for low‐energy photons, 6X and 6X‐FFF beams, and compare measurements to Monte Carlo simulations using Varian VirtuaLinac that include a realistic head shielding model, for a variety of jaw sizes and angles up to a distance of 100 cm from the isocenter, in both positive and negative directions. Given the high value and utility of the VirtuaLinac model, it is critical that this model is validated thoroughly and the results be available to the medical physics community.

Materials and method

Simulations were done using VirtuaLinac, the GEANT4‐based Monte Carlo model of the TrueBeam treatment head from Varian Medical Systems, and an in‐house GEANT4‐based code. VirtuaLinac included a detailed model of the treatment head shielding and was run on the Amazon Web Services cloud to generate spherical phase space files surrounding the treatment head. These phase space files were imported into the in‐house code, which modeled the measurement setup with a solid water buildup, the carbon fiber couch, and the gantry stand. For each jaw size (2 × 2 cm2, 4 × 4 cm2, 10 × 10 cm2, and 20 × 20 cm2) and angular setting (0°, 90°, 45°, 135°), the dose was calculated at intervals of 5 cm along each measurement direction.

Results

For the 10 × 10 cm2 jaw size, both 6X and 6X‐FFF showed very good agreement between simulation and measurement in both in‐plane directions, with no apparent systematic bias. The percentage deviations for these settings were as follows: (mean, STDEV, maximum) (8.34, 6.44, 24.84) for 6X and (13.21, 8.93, 35.56) for 6X‐FFF. For all jaw sizes, simulation agreed well in the in‐plane direction going away from the gantry, but, some deviations were observed moving toward the gantry at larger distances. At larger distances, for the jaw sizes smaller than 10 × 10 cm2, the simulation underestimates the dose compared with measurement, while for jaw sizes larger than 10 × 10 cm2, it overestimates dose. For all comparisons between ±50 cm from isocenter, average absolute agreement between simulation and measurement was better than 28%.

Conclusion

We have validated the Varian VirtuaLinac's head shielding model via out‐of‐field doses and quantified the differences between TrueBeam head shielding model created out‐of‐field doses and measurements for an extended distance of 100 cm.
Dynamic diffusion‐weighted hyperpolarized 13C imaging based on a slice‐selective double spin echo sequence for measurements of cellular transport
Authors: Zhu Xucheng , Gordon Jeremy W. , Bok Robert A. , Kurhanewicz John , Larson Peder E.Z.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To develop a pulse sequence to dynamically measure the ADC of hyperpolarized substrates during their perfusion, metabolic conversion, and transport.

Methods

We proposed a slice‐selective double spin echo sequence for dynamic hyperpolarized 13C diffusion‐weighted imaging. The proposed pulse sequence was optimized for a high field preclinical scanner through theoretical analysis and simulation. The performance of the method was compared to non‐slice‐selective double spin echo via in vivo studies. We also validated the sequence for dynamic ADC measurement in both phantom studies and transgenic mouse model of prostate cancer studies.

Results

The optimized pulse sequence outperforms the traditional sequence with smaller saturation effects on the magnetization of hyperpolarized compounds that allowed more dynamic imaging frames covering a longer imaging time window. In pre‐clinical studies (N = 8), the dynamic hyperpolarized lactate ADC maps of 6 studies in the prostate tumors showed an increase measured ADC over time, which might be related to lactate efflux from the tumor cells.

Conclusions

The proposed sequence was validated and shown to improve dynamic diffusion weighted imaging compared to the traditional double spin echo sequence, providing ADC maps of lactate through time.
Quantitative analysis of vascular properties derived from ultrafast DCE‐MRI to discriminate malignant and benign breast tumors
Authors: Wu Chengyue , Pineda Federico , Hormuth David A. , Karczmar Gregory S. , Yankeelov Thomas E.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

We propose a novel methodology to integrate morphological and functional information of tumor‐associated vessels to assist in the diagnosis of suspicious breast lesions.

Theory and Methods

Ultrafast, fast, and high spatial resolution DCE‐MRI data were acquired on 15 patients with suspicious breast lesions. Segmentation of the vasculature from the surrounding tissue was performed by applying a Hessian filter to the enhanced image to generate a map of the probability for each voxel to belong to a vessel. Summary measures were generated for vascular morphology, as well as the inputs and outputs of vessels physically connected to the tumor. The ultrafast DCE‐MRI data was analyzed by a modified Tofts model to estimate the bolus arrival time, Ktrans (volume transfer coefficient), and vp (plasma volume fraction). The measures were compared between malignant and benign lesions via the Wilcoxon test, and then incorporated into a logistic ridge regression model to assess their combined diagnostic ability.

Results

A total of 24 lesions were included in the study (13 malignant and 11 benign). The vessel count, Ktrans, and vp showed significant difference between malignant and benign lesions (P = 0.009, 0.034, and 0.010, area under curve [AUC] = 0.76, 0.63, and 0.70, respectively). The best multivariate logistic regression model for differentiation included the vessel count and bolus arrival time (AUC = 0.91).

Conclusion

This study provides preliminary evidence that combining quantitative characterization of morphological and functional features of breast vasculature may provide an accurate means to diagnose breast cancer.
Eddy current nulled constrained optimization of isotropic diffusion encoding gradient waveforms
Authors: Yang Grant , McNab Jennifer A.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Isotropic diffusion encoding efficiently encodes additional microstructural information in combination with conventional linear diffusion encoding. However, the gradient‐intensive isotropic diffusion waveforms generate significant eddy currents, which cause image distortions. The purpose of this study is to present a method for designing isotropic diffusion encoding waveforms with intrinsic eddy current nulling.

Methods

Eddy current nulled gradient waveforms were designed using a constrained optimization waveform for a 3T GE Premier MRI system. Encoding waveforms were designed for a variety of eddy current null times and sequence timings to evaluate the achievable b‐value. Waveforms were also tested with both eddy current nulling and concomitant field compensation. Distortion reduction was tested in both phantoms and the in vivo human brain.

Results

The feasibility of isotropic diffusion encoding with intrinsic correction of eddy current distortion and signal bias from concomitant fields was demonstrated. The constrained optimization algorithm produced gradient waveforms with the specified eddy current null times. The reduction in the achievable diffusion weighting was dependent on the number of eddy current null times. A reduction in the eddy current–induced image distortions was observed in both phantoms and in vivo human subjects.

Conclusion

The proposed framework allows the design of isotropic diffusion‐encoding sequences with reduced image distortion.
Accelerated 3D T2 mapping with dictionary‐based matching for prostate imaging
Authors: Roccia Elisa , Vidya Shankar Rohini , Neji Radhouene , Cruz Gastão , Munoz Camila , Botnar René , Goh Vicky , Prieto Claudia , Dregely Isabel
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To develop a fast and accurate method for 3D T2 mapping of prostate cancer using undersampled acquisition and dictionary‐based fitting.

Methods

3D high‐resolution T2‐weighted images (0.9 × 0.9 × 3 mm3) were obtained with a multishot T2‐prepared balanced steady‐state free precession (T2‐prep‐bSSFP) acquisition sequence using a 3D variable density undersampled Cartesian trajectory. Each T2‐weighted image was reconstructed using total variation regularized sensitivity encoding. A flexible simulation framework based on extended phase graphs generated a dictionary of magnetization signals, which was customized to the proposed sequence. The dictionary was matched to the acquired T2‐weighted images to retrieve quantitative T2 values, which were then compared to gold‐standard spin echo acquisition values using monoexponential fitting. The proposed approach was validated in simulations and a T1/T2 phantom, and feasibility was tested in 8 healthy subjects.

Results

The simulation analysis showed that the proposed T2 mapping approach is robust to noise and typically observed T1 variations. T2 values obtained in the phantom with T2prep‐bSSFP and the acquisition‐specific, dictionary‐based matching were highly correlated with the gold‐standard spin echo method (r = 0.99). Furthermore, no differences were observed with the accelerated acquisition compared to the fully sampled acquisition (r = 0.99). T2 values obtained in prostate peripheral zone, central gland, and muscle in healthy subjects (age, 26 ± 6 years) were 97 ± 14, 76 ± 7, and 36 ± 3 ms, respectively.

Conclusion

3D quantitative T2 mapping of the whole prostate can be achieved in 3 minutes.
PEC‐GRAPPA reconstruction of simultaneous multislice EPI with slice‐dependent 2D Nyquist ghost correction
Authors: Liu Yilong , Lyu Mengye , Barth Markus , Yi Zheyuan , Leong Alex T. L. , Chen Fei , Feng Yanqiu , Wu Ed X.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To provide simultaneous multislice (SMS) EPI reconstruction with k‐space implementation and robust Nyquist ghost correction.

Methods

2D phase error correction SENSE (PEC‐SENSE) was recently developed for Nyquist ghost correction in SMS EPI reconstruction for which virtual coil simultaneous autocalibration and k‐space estimation (VC‐SAKE) was used to remove slice‐dependent Nyquist ghosts and intershot 2D phase variations in multi‐shot EPI reference scan. However, masking coil sensitivity maps to exclude background region in PEC‐SENSE and manually selecting slice‐wise target ranks in VC‐SAKE are cumbersome procedures in practice. To avoid masking, the concept of PEC‐SENSE is extended to k‐space implementation and termed as PEC‐GRAPPA. Furthermore, a singular value shrinkage scheme is incorporated in VC‐SAKE to circumvent the empirical slice‐wise target rank selection. PEC‐GRAPPA was evaluated and compared to PEC‐SENSE with/without masking and 1D linear phase correction GRAPPA.

Results

PEC‐GRAPPA robustly reconstructed SMS EPI images from 7T phantom and human brain data, effectively removing the phase error‐induced artifacts. The resulting residual artifact level and temporal SNR were comparable to those by PEC‐SENSE with careful tuning. PEC‐GRAPPA outperformed PEC‐SENSE without masking and 1D linear phase correction GRAPPA.

Conclusion

Our proposed PEC‐GRAPPA approach effectively removes the artifacts caused by Nyquist ghosts in SMS EPI without cumbersome tuning. This approach provides a robust and practical implementation of SMS EPI reconstruction in k‐space with slice‐dependent 2D Nyquist ghost correction.
Accurate fatty acid composition estimation of adipose tissue in the abdomen based on bipolar multi‐echo MRI
Authors: Schneider Manuel , Janas Gemini , Lugauer Felix , Hoppe Elisabeth , Nickel Dominik , Dale Brian M. , Kiefer Berthold , Maier Andreas , Bashir Mustafa R.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To develop a bipolar multi‐echo MRI method for the accurate estimation of the adipose tissue fatty acid composition (FAC) using clinically relevant protocols at clinical field strength.

Methods

The proposed technique jointly estimates confounding factors (field map, , eddy‐current phase) and triglyceride saturation state parameters by fitting multi‐echo gradient echo acquisitions to a complex signal model. The noise propagation behavior was improved by applying a low‐rank enforcing denoising technique and by addressing eddy‐current‐induced phase discrepancies analytically. The impact of the total echo train duration on the FAC parameter map accuracy was analyzed in an oil phantom at 3T. Accuracy and reproducibility assessment was based on in vitro oil phantom measurements at two field strengths (3T and 1.5T) and with two different protocols. Repeatability was assessed in vivo in patients (n = 8) with suspected fatty liver disease using test–retest acquisitions in the abdominal subcutaneous, perirenal and mesenteric fat depots.

Results

Echo train readout durations of at least five times the conventional in‐phase time were required for accurate FAC estimation in areas of high fat content. In vitro, linear regression and Bland–Altman analyses demonstrated strong (r > 0.94) and significant (P ≪ 0.01) correlations between measured and reference FACs for all acquisitions, with smaller overall intercepts and biases at 3T compared to 1.5T. In vivo, reported mean absolute differences between test and retest were 1.54%, 3.31%, and 2.63% for the saturated, mono‐unsaturated, and poly‐unsaturated fat component, respectively.

Conclusions

Accurate and reproducible MRI‐based FAC quantification within a breath‐hold is possible at clinical field strengths.
Fast and sensitive dynamic oxygen‐enhanced MRI with a cycling gas challenge and independent component analysis
Authors: Moosvi Firas , Baker Jennifer H.E. , Yung Andrew , Kozlowski Piotr , Minchinton Andrew I. , Reinsberg Stefan A.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

There is a critical need for non‐invasive imaging biomarkers of tumor oxygenation to assist in patient stratification and development of hypoxia targeting therapies. Using a cycling gas challenge and independent component analysis (ICA), we sought to improve the sensitivity and speed of existing oxygen enhanced MRI (OE‐MRI) techniques to detect changes in oxygenation with dynamically acquired T1W signal intensity images (dOE‐MRI).

Methods

Mice were implanted with SCCVII, HCT‐116, BT‐474, or SKOV3 tumors in the dorsal subcutaneous region and imaged at 7T. T1W images were acquired during a respiratory challenge with alternating 2‐minute periods of air and 100% oxygen for three cycles. Data were analyzed with ICA and oxygenation maps were generated and compared to corresponding histology sections stained for hypoxia (pimonidazole) and blood vessels (CD31).

Results

Cycling air‐oxygen‐air gas challenges were well tolerated and ICA permitted extraction of the oxygen‐enhancing component in all imaged tumors from four different models. Comparison with synthetic response functions showed that dOE‐MRI does not require any a‐priori knowledge of the physiological response. The fraction of O2‐negative dOE‐MRI voxels that correlate inversely with the ICA gas‐cycling component correspond well with the histological hypoxic fraction in SCCVII tumors (r = 0.91, p = 0.0016) but did not correlate in HCT‐116 tumors (r = 0.13, p = 0.81).

Conclusions

Using ICA and adding a cycling gas challenge extends the sensitivity of OE‐MRI and allows the oxygenation status of tumors to be assessed in as little as six minutes. These findings support further development of OE‐MRI as a biomarker of tumor oxygenation.
A hybrid finite element‐spectral boundary integral approach: Applications to dynamic rupture modeling in unbounded domains
Authors: Ma Xiao , Hajarolasvadi Setare , Albertini Gabriele , Kammer David S. , Elbanna Ahmed E.
Published: October 2018

The finite element method (FEM) and the spectral boundary integral method (SBI) have both been widely used in the study of dynamic rupture simulations along a weak interface. In this paper, we present a hybrid method that combines FEM and SBI through the consistent exchange of displacement and traction boundary conditions, thereby benefiting from the flexibility of FEM in handling problems with nonlinearities or small‐scale heterogeneities and from the superior performance and accuracy of SBI. We validate the hybrid method using a benchmark problem from the Southern California Earthquake Center's dynamic rupture simulation validation exercises.We further demonstrate the capability and computational efficiency of the hybrid scheme for resolving off‐fault heterogeneities by studying a 2D in‐plane shear crack in two different settings: one where the crack is embedded in a high‐velocity zone and another where it is embedded in a low‐velocity zone. Finally, we discuss the potential of the hybrid method for addressing a wide range of problems in geophysics and engineering.
A note on “A linear‐size zero‐one programming model for the minimum spanning tree problem in planar graphs”
Authors: Validi Hamidreza , Buchanan Austin
Published: October 2018

In the article “A linear‐size zero‐one programming model for the minimum spanning tree problem in planar graphs” (Networks 39(1) (2002), 53‐60), Williams introduced an extended formulation for the spanning tree polytope of a planar graph. This formulation is remarkably small (using only O(n) variables and constraints) and remarkably strong (defining an integral polytope). In this note, we point out that Williams' formulation, as originally stated, is incorrect. Specifically, we construct a binary feasible solution to Williams' formulation that does not represent a spanning tree. Fortunately, there is a simple fix, which is to restrict the choice of the root vertices in the primal and dual spanning trees, whereas Williams explicitly allowed them to be chosen arbitrarily. The same flaw and fix apply to a subsequent formulation of Williams (“A zero‐one programming model for contiguous land acquisition.” Geographical Analysis 34(4) (2002), 330‐349).
Human White Adipose Tissue Metabolome: Current Perspective
Authors: Kučera Jan , Spáčil Zdeněk , Friedecký David , Novák Jan , Pekař Matěj , Bienertová‐Vašků Julie
Published: October 2018

Objective

Interest in metabolites produced by adipose tissue has increased substantially in the past several decades. Previously regarded as an inert energy storage depot, adipose tissue is now viewed as a complex metabolically active organ with considerable impact on human health. The emerging field of mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics presents a powerful tool for the study of processes in complex biological matrices including adipose tissue.

Results

A large number of structurally distinct metabolites can be analyzed to facilitate the investigation of differences between physiological and pathophysiological metabolic profiles associated with adipose tissue. Understanding the molecular basis of adipose tissue regulation can thereby provide insight into the monitoring of obesity‐related metabolic disorders and lead to the development of novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.

Conclusions

This review provides the current state of knowledge, recent progress, and critical evaluation of metabolomics approaches in the context of white adipose tissue and obesity. An overview of basic principles and resources describing individual groups of metabolites analyzed in white adipose tissue and biological fluids is given. The focus is on metabolites that can serve as reliable biomarkers indicative of metabolic alterations associated with obesity.
Effect of cenosphere filler surface treatment on the erosion behavior of epoxy matrix syntactic foams
Authors: Shahapurkar Kiran , Doddamani Mrityunjay , Mohan Kumar G. C. , Gupta Nikhil
Published: October 2018

Influence of cenosphere surface modification and volume fraction on the solid particle erosion of cenosphere/epoxy syntactic foams is investigated. Fly ash cenospheres are used as filler in both as received and silane surface modified configurations. Erosion behavior is studied at room temperature for different impact angles (30, 45, 60, and 90°) and velocities (30, 45, and 60 m/s). Neat epoxy shows the highest erosion rate compared with that of the syntactic foams. Results show a strong dependence of impact angle and velocity on erosion rate of syntactic foams. With increasing cenosphere content erosion rate decreases for all impact angles. Erosion rate decreases with increasing impact angle and with decreasing velocity. Good interfacial bonding of treated cenospheres enhances the erosion resistance. All the samples exhibit ductile erosive behavior, with maximum erosion at 30°. The velocity exponent and erosion efficiency parameters confirm the ductile behavior of syntactic foams. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2109–2118, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Experimental and micromechanical investigation of T300/7901 unidirectional composite strength
Authors: Zhao Y. Q. , Zhou Y. , Huang Z. M. , Batra R. C.
Published: October 2018

We experimentally find mechanical properties in uniaxial tension/compression and torsional deformations of the 7901 epoxy resin used as a matrix to fabricate T300/7901 unidirectional (UD) fiber‐reinforced composite. A series of off‐axis tensile tests on the composite were conducted, and micrographs of the fiber–matrix interface at different load levels, using a Scanning Electron Microscope, taken to ascertain their ultimate tensile strengths. Values of the elasto‐plastic parameters for the epoxy determined from the tests, and the handbook values of the fiber parameters were used in a micromechanics‐based bridging model to predict ultimate tensile strengths of off‐axis loaded composite by considering stress concentration effects due to debonding at the fiber/matrix interface. For the 30° off‐axis loaded laminate, the predicted ultimate strength is found to agree well with that determined experimentally, and the interface debonding occurs before the ultimate failure. The UD composite is assumed to fail when either the fiber or the matrix failure criterion is satisfied. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2639–2652, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Impact of Central Nervous System Stimulant Medication Use on Growth in Pediatric Populations with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Review
Authors: Troksa Kyle , Kovacich Nikolas , Moro Michael , Chavez Benjamin
Published: October 2018

Central nervous system stimulants are a commonly used first‐line treatment option for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stimulants are generally well tolerated, with anorexia and insomnia the most common adverse effects. However, there are some concerns with long‐term use of stimulants, such as potential growth delay. Historically, data regarding this long‐term adverse effect have been conflicting. In this article, we review the newer data surrounding the effects of central nervous system stimulants on growth parameters in children with ADHD. We conducted a literature search of the PubMed database; only articles using ADHD criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision; and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, were included to ensure the most up‐to‐date review of literature. Nine articles were identified for relevance and quality and are discussed in this review, describing clinical observations of height and weight of adolescent or pediatric patients receiving stimulant medications for ADHD therapy. In summary, this review points toward potential associations between duration of treatment and higher doses of stimulants with decreased weight and body mass index. Furthermore, this review demonstrates that evidence is still conflicting regarding the relationship between stimulant use and significant height decreases. Future studies with higher quality of evidence are needed to observe this potential adverse effect of stimulants in children and adolescents.
Predicting photovoltaic soiling losses using environmental parameters: An update
Authors: Micheli Leonardo , Deceglie Michael G. , Muller Matthew
Published: October 2018

This study presents an investigation on the correlations between soiling losses and environmental parameters at 41 locations in the United States, with the aim of analyzing the possibility of predicting soiling losses at a site even when soiling data are not available. The results of this work, which considers the largest pool of soiling data points systematically investigated so far, confirm that a single‐variable regression based on particulate matter concentration returns the best correlations with soiling, with adjusted coefficients of determination up to 70%, corresponding to RMSE as low as 0.9%. Among the various particulate matter datasets investigated, a gridded Environment Protection Agency dataset is for the first time found to return correlations similar to those obtained by interpolating particulate matter monitoring station data. We discuss in detail the different interpolation techniques used to process the particulate matter concentrations because they can greatly impact the correlations. Specifically, the correlation coefficients between soiling and particulate matter range between 70% and less than 20%, depending on the interpolation methods and monitoring distance. Spatial interpolation methods based on inverse distance weighting are found to return better correlations than a nearest neighbor or a simple average approach, especially when large distances are considered. Similarly, the effects of different rain thresholds used to calculate the length of the dry periods are examined. An enhanced two‐variable regression is found to achieve higher‐quality correlations, with adjusted R2 of 90% (RMSE = 0.55%), also suggesting that high and low soiling locations might be differentiated depending on fixed particulate matter or rainfall thresholds.
School psychologists’ beliefs and practices about treatment integrity in 2008 and 2017
Authors: Cochrane Wendy S. , Sanetti Lisa M. H. , Minster Molly C.
Published: October 2018

A random sample of 1,000 Nationally Certified School Psychologists were mailed a 17‐item survey about treatment integrity. A total of 132 responded and answered questions about the importance of treatment integrity data for tiered interventions and the frequency and methods used to measure treatment integrity in one‐to‐one and problem‐solving team consultation. Ninety‐eight percent agreed that treatment integrity data were critical for tiered interventions. However, only 7% in one‐to‐one consultation and 0% in team consultation reported it was “always” collected. Respondents identified barriers of time, workload, system factors, and staff knowledge as explanations for why there was a gap between belief and practice. The participant responses were compared to those from a 2008 survey and found to be almost unchanged. Issues associated with decision‐making when treatment integrity data are lacking and recommendations for improving the assessment and reporting of treatment integrity are discussed.
Trends and practices in functional behavior assessments completed by school psychologists
Authors: Johnson Austin H. , Goldberg Taryn S. , Hinant Rachel L. , Couch Lauren K.
Published: October 2018

Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) utilize direct and indirect methods to collect data on student behavior to generate a functional hypothesis and drive intervention development. School psychologists are trained to conduct FBAs and use them regularly in schools. However, no evidence exists describing the specific practices used by school psychologists when they conduct FBAs. In this study, 199 respondents completed a web‐based survey developed using expert review and cognitive pretesting. Most respondents reported their gender as female (87%), were between 30 and 39 years old (50%), and practiced at the Specialist level (57%). Respondents reported receiving training in FBA across multiple sources and utilizing multi‐method data collection methods when conducting FBAs. A large amount of variability was observed in the specific instruments used by school psychologists, with a substantial proportion using forms that were not standardized or pre‐constructed. Implications for current practitioners, trainers, and researchers are described.
Fraction interventions for struggling elementary math learners: A review of the literature
Authors: Roesslein Rachel I. , Codding Robin S.
Published: October 2018

Understanding fractions has been a pervasively difficult skill for struggling math learners, yet it is essential for success in secondary level mathematics skills. The present systematic review examined the evidence base of fraction interventions for elementary level students identified as struggling math learners. Twelve studies met inclusion criteria and were reviewed for (a) instructional focus (b) instructional components, and (c) effectiveness of the intervention on fraction performance. The majority of studies had a primary instructional focus on conceptual knowledge of fraction learning. Results of the study also indicated that all interventions included multiple evidence‐based instructional components (e.g., concrete and visual representations, range and sequence of examples, etc.). These multicomponent interventions improved performance on a variety of proximal fraction outcome measures. Intervention effects were mixed for generalized outcome measures and minimal for distal outcome measures. Limitations, implications for practice, and future research directions are discussed.
A systematic review of school‐based interventions and their outcomes for youth exposed to traumatic events
Authors: Yohannan Justina , Carlson John S.
Published: October 2018

Youth exposed to traumatic events are at higher risk for negative developmental outcomes, including low academic performance, poor social skills, and mental health concerns. To best address these risks, school‐based intervention services, and trauma‐informed practices can be provided. The goal of this study was to systematically review the intervention research conducted on school‐based trauma interventions, with specific attention to examine intervention effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability across studies. It was found that feasibility and acceptability are not frequently examined, though the data available showed that Enhancing Resiliency Amongst Students Experiencing‐Stress (ERASE‐Stress) and school‐based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) had high rates of fidelity; and school‐based CBT had high levels of acceptability. The review also examined demographic variables and found that U. S.‐based research reported racially/ethnically diverse samples, and most samples were from low‐income populations. Most studies examined youth exposed to war‐ and terror‐related traumas or natural disaster‐related traumas. Additionally, this review provides future directions for research and reveals the need for further research on intervention feasibility and acceptability. A brief description of practice recommendations based on prior research has also been included. It also exposes the need for studies that examine various student demographic variables that are currently not examined and consistency in rating scale use in school‐based trauma intervention research.
Children’s attributions about teachers’ intentions
Authors: Samson Jennifer E. , Wehby Joseph H.
Published: October 2018

Hostile attribution bias (HAB) has been shown to predict aggressive behavior, especially toward peers. The current study examined whether HAB is also related to conflict with teachers, an important predictor of academic and social success in school‐aged children. A total of 282 second to fourth grade boys in 74 classrooms completed a self‐report measure of HAB toward teachers, while their teachers assessed conflict in the teacher–student relationship. Results supported the presence of a positive relationship between HAB toward teachers and conflict with teachers. These findings suggest that HAB toward teachers may be an indicator of difficulties and, pending further research, a potential avenue for intervention to improve teacher–student relationships.
Pilot evaluation of the Whole Inclusive School Empowerment (WISE) project in kindergartens in Hong Kong: A mixed method approach
Authors: Leung Cynthia , Leung Janet , Leung Shirley , Karnilowicz Wally
Published: October 2018

This pilot study used a quasiexperimental design to evaluate the Whole Inclusive School Empowerment (WISE) project providing educational psychology services to kindergartens to support students with diverse learning needs. There were eight intervention kindergartens that received WISE educational psychology services and eight control kindergartens without the service. The intervention kindergartens were provided with a 0.125 educational psychologist and 0.7 teacher coordinator. In January and June 2017, teachers in intervention and control kindergartens completed questionnaires assessing student behavior, school readiness, and their own teaching efficacy. Focus group sessions involving teachers and school principals were conducted in July 2017. The results indicated a greater improvement in prosocial behavior and school readiness in intervention kindergartens compared with control kindergartens. Teachers and principals reported that they were better equipped in supporting diverse learning needs. The results provided initial evidence supporting the effectiveness of educational psychology services for kindergartens in improving student outcomes.
Benefits for coteachers of students with disabilities: Do contextual factors matter?
Authors: Stefanidis Abraham , King‐Sears Margaret E. , Brawand Anne
Published: October 2018

Drawing on Bandura’s social learning and social cognitive theory, we empirically investigate contextual factors that may influence perceived benefits of coteaching for teachers. Special and general education coteachers have reported that necessary contextual factors for them to be effective include: sufficient coplanning time, relationship quality, and parity. In this study, 147 special and general education coteachers from suburban and rural schools across the United States responded to theCo‐teacher Questionnaireto determine what contributes to their perceived benefits of coteaching students with disabilities. Hierarchical linear regression analyses indicated that coplanning (β = 0.22;p ≤ 0.01) and relationship quality (β = 0.30;p ≤ 0.01) positively influenced the coteachers’ perceived benefits of coteaching (Cohen’sf2 = 0.47), whereas parity was not corroborated to have a significant impact. These not previously empirically studied relationships inform the field by clarifying the importance of the contextual factors for coteachers. Implications for the practitioners and researchers are offered.
ArabidopsisMATE45 antagonizes local abscisic acid signaling to mediate development and abiotic stress responses
Authors: Kovinich Nik , Wang Yiqun , Adegboye Janet , Chanoca Alexandra A. , Otegui Marisa S. , Durkin Paige , Grotewold Erich
Published: October 2018

Anthocyanins provide ideal visual markers for the identification of mutations that disrupt molecular responses to abiotic stress. We screenedArabidopsismutants ofABC(ATP‐Binding Cassette) andMATE(Multidrug And Toxic compound Extrusion) transporter genes under nutritional stress and identified four genes (ABCG25,ABCG9,ABCG5,andMATE45) required for normal anthocyanin pigmentation.ABCG25was previously demonstrated to encode a vascular‐localized cellular exporter of abscisic acid (ABA). Our results show thatMATE45encodes an aerial meristem‐ and a vascular‐localized transporter associated with thetrans‐Golgi, and that it plays an important role in controlling the levels and distribution ofABAin growing aerial meristems and non‐meristematic tissues.MATE45 promoter‐GUSreporter fusions revealed the activity localized to the leaf and influorescence meristems and the vasculature. Loss‐of‐functionmate45mutants exhibited accelerated rates of aerial organ initiation suggesting at least partial functional conservation with the maize orthologbige1. Theaba2‐1mutant, which is deficient inABAbiosynthesis, exhibited a number of phenotypes that were rescued in themate45‐1 aba2‐1double mutant.mate45exhibited enhanced the seed dormancy, and germination was hypersensitive toABA. Enhanced frequency of leaf primordia growth inmate45seedlings grown in nutrient imbalance stress wasABA‐dependent. TheABAsignaling reporter constructpRD29B::GUSrevealed elevated levels ofABAsignaling in the true leaf primordia ofmate45seedlings grown under nutritional stress, and gradually reduced signaling in surrounding cotyledon and hypocotyl tissues concomitant with reduced expressions ofABCG25. Our results suggest a role ofMATE45 in reducing meristematicABAand in maintainingABAdistribution in adjacent non‐meristematic tissues.
Amphiphilic fluorous random copolymer self‐assembly for encapsulation of a fluorinated agrochemical
Authors: Ko Jeong Hoon , Bhattacharya Arvind , Terashima Takaya , Sawamoto Mitsuo , Maynard Heather D.
Published: October 2018

Amphiphilic self‐folding random copolymers exhibit different solution behaviors depending on the identity of the hydrophobic/hydrophilic units. Herein, it is demonstrated that changing the hydrophilic unit from poly(ethylene glycol) to the sugar trehalose causes increased discrepancy in the polarity difference with a fluorinated hydrophobic segment and changes the aggregation state of the polymer in water. The PEG‐fluorinated and trehalose/PEG‐fluorinated amphiphilic random copolymers were the most efficient at encapsulating a fluorinated agrochemical. The small‐molecule agrochemical exerts a strong influence on the self‐assembly of the polymers, demonstrating that fluorous interactions result in not only intramolecular self‐folding behavior but also intermolecular polymer association to form well‐defined nanoparticles. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 352–359