bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Behavior of a Ditopic Phosphine Ligand
Authors: Renard Nicolas , Brenner Eric , Matt Dominique , Gourlaouen Christophe
Published: May 2019

Synthetic, structural and computational studies have been performed to investigate ligand interchange in the fluxional chelate complex [RhCl3{Ph2PACH2C(OA)OEt‐κ2POA}{Ph2PBCH2C(OB)OEt‐κP}], which contains two hybrid phosphine‐ester ligands, one acting as P,O chelator, the other as a P‐monodentate ligand. The observed ligand exchange may occur according to two pathways which both involve four elementary movements: a) oxygen dissociation with formation of a lacunary octahedral RhCl3P2 intermediate; b) migration of the Cl atom trans to PA towards the position trans to PB; c) rotations of the phosphine moieties about the Rh–P bonds, these occurring either concomitantly with the Cl displacement or in a separate step; d) coordination of an oxygen atom of the second phosphine. The two pathways thus differ by conformational changes within two distinct steps. In each pathway the rate‐limiting step is the one involving a movement of the two phosphines, which generates steric frictions between the two PPh2 groups. The calculated theoretical energetic spans of both pathways (ΔG≠ ≈ 17 kcal mol–1) is close to the energy barrier obtained from a variable temperature NMR study carried out in C2D2Cl4 (ΔG≠ = 15.5 kcal mol–1). While one of the pathways leads to an isomer with a Rh‐bound ethoxy O atom, the other results in the isomer having the metal coordinated to the adjacent C=O group. Exchange between the two O atoms of the coordinated ester group occurs readily (ΔGTS = 12.5 kcal mol–1).
Comparison of fast pyrolysis bio‐oils from straw and miscanthus
Authors: Conrad Stefan , Blajin Cristina , Schulzke Tim , Deerberg Goerge
Published: May 2019

Fast pyrolysis is one of the most promising conversion processes for producing advanced biofuels, which can be used as substitute for fuel oils or chemicals. This article investigates the fast pyrolysis of two common types of biomass: a mixture of wheat/barley straw as typical agriculture residue and miscanthus as fast‐growing energy plant. All experiments were performed using an ablative hot surface reactor. It was observed that the product yields using wheat/barley straw and miscanthus are almost similar on mass basis. Noteworthy were the higher share on reaction water and a lower content of organics in the wheat/barley straw based pyrolysis bio‐oil. As a result of the high total water content (about 48 wt%), the bio‐oil separated into two phases: an upper aqueous phase and a bottom tarry phase. The amount of water‐soluble organic compounds contained in the aqueous phase of bio‐oil derived from miscanthus pyrolysis can be attributed to the higher amount of hemicellulose present in miscanthus compared to straw. The phase separation by decantation is not an efficient method to reduce the water content and total acid number because a part of valuable components will be lost to the aqueous phase.

Significance

The production of bio‐oils through fast pyrolysis technologies (mainly small scale and fluidized bed reactor systems) is widely described in literature. Therefore, the main objective of this work lies in the comparison of yield and quality of bio‐oils from different biomasses (straw as example for agricultural residues and miscanthus representing dedicated energy crops) in the same ablative hot surface reactor with a capacity of about 5 kg/hr.
Comparison of electrocoagulation and photocatalytic process for treatment of industrial dyeing wastewater: Energy consumption analysis
Authors: Ghaffarian Khorram Atousa , Fallah Narges
Published: May 2019

Several processes have been used for dye and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal from wastewater. Comparision of these methods are important in terms of efficiency and energy consumption. In recent years, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) and electrocoagulation (EC) are the best methods for industrial dyeing wastewater treatment. In this study, comparision of energy consumption related to EC and photocatalytic process has been investigated. Effect of operational parameters on efficieny of both methods were studied. Effective parameters in EC treatment were initial pH, current density and distance between electrodes. In the photocatalytic process initial pH, photocatalyst concentration and aeration are effective parameters. Decolorization, COD removal, and energy consumption are as responses. Under the optimum conditions, decolorization and COD removal for EC and photocatalytic process were 85.57 and 34.48%, and 81.39 and 67%, respectively. Considering the same time for both methods, decolorization was the same, but COD removal was higher in photocatalytic processs. Energy consumption of EC process (<0.01 kWh/m3.order of pollutant removal) was very lower than photocatalytic process (>100 kWh/m3.order of pollutant removal). Since the wastewater treatment process must be economic, EC process was chosen. Another method such as photocatalytic processs must be selected due to improve the output.
Elimination of coal and gas outburst risk of low‐permeability coal seam using high‐pressure water jet slotting technology: A case study in Shihuatian Coal Mine in Guizhou Province, China
Authors: Jun Xie , Yunpei Liang , Quanle Zou , Lei Li , Xuelong Li
Published: May 2019

Coal seams in China are mainly characterizsed by low permeability and high risk of coal and gas outburst. Therefore, the elimination of coal and gas outburst risk of low‐permeability coal seam remains a hard challenge. Taking Shihuatian Coal Mine in Guizhou Province, China as an example, boreholes were slotted using high‐pressure water jet to relieve the gas pressure inside the coal seam and increase the permeability of coal mass, which thus improves the gas drainage efficiency and eliminate the outburst risk. The results show that the gas drainage efficiency of the slotted boreholes significantly increases. Compared with the conventional boreholes, the average gas concentration and flow velocity improved by 1.6 and 7.5 times, respectively. Moreover, the prediction index of outburst risk is less than the critical value after high‐pressure water jet slotting, which indicate that the coal and gas outburst risk has been effectively eliminated. The measured values of gas desorption index of drilling cuttings are all lower than the critical value after the application of the high‐pressure water jet slotting technology. The research achievements could provide a practical reference for the effective gas disaster prevention and control in low‐permeability coal seams.
Prior CSIT estimation for FDD massive MIMO system with 1‐bit feedback per dimension
Authors: Zhang Ruoyu , Zhang Jiayan , Gao Yulong , Zhao Honglin
Published: May 2019

In massive multiple‐input–multiple‐output system, the accurate channel state information at the transmitter (CSIT) is required to achieve the high beamforming gain and spectral efficiency. To reduce the feedback overhead for CSIT acquisition in frequency division duplex system, a prior CSIT estimation with 1‐bit feedback per dimension is proposed to alleviate the overhead burden. Specifically, by exploiting the slow variation of channel support between the consecutive frames, the channel support in the previous frame is regarded as the prior information for CSIT estimation of current frame. Then, the received compressed channel measurements at the user side are quantized to 1 bit per measurement and only the sign information is fed back to the base station (BS). At the BS side, the CSIT recovery from the 1‐bit channel feedback information is formulated as a 1‐bit sparse complex‐value signal recovery problem with prior information. Finally, a prior support complex binary iterative hard thresholding algorithm is proposed to perform the CSIT estimation at the BS side. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme can reduce both the pilot and feedback overhead for CSIT estimation.
Concomitant and noncanonical JAK2 and MPL mutations in JAK2V617F‐ and MPLW515 L‐positive myelofibrosis
Authors: Schulze Susann , Stengel Rayk , Jaekel Nadja , Wang Song‐Yau , Franke Georg–Nikolaus , Roskos Martin , Schneider Melanie , Niederwieser Dietger , Al‐Ali Haifa Kathrin
Published: May 2019

Sequential genotyping for phenotype‐driver mutations in JAK2 (exon 14), CALR (exon 9), and MPL (exon 10) is recommended in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms. Yet, atypical JAK2‐ and MPL‐mutations were described in some triple‐negative patients. Whether noncanonical and/or concomitant JAK2‐ and MPL‐mutations exist in myelofibrosis (MF) regardless of phenotype‐driver mutations is not yet elucidated. For this, next‐generation sequencing (NGS) was performed using blood genomic DNA from 128 MF patients (primary MF, n = 93; post‐ET–MF, n = 18; post‐PV–MF, n = 17). While no atypical JAK2‐ or MPL‐mutations were seen in 24 CALR‐positive samples, two JAK2‐mutations [c.3323A > G, p.N1108S; c.3188G > A, p.R1063H] were detected in two of the 21 (9.5%) triple‐negative patients. Twelve of the 82 (14.6%) JAK2V617F‐positive cases had coexisting germline JAK2‐mutations [JAK2R1063H, n = 6; JAK2R893T, n = 1; JAK2T525A, n = 1] or at least one somatic MPL‐mutation [MPLY591D, n = 3; MPLW515 L, n = 2; MPLE335K, n = 1]. Overall, MPL‐mutations always coexisted with JAK2V617F and/or other MPL‐mutations. None of the JAK2V617F plus a second JAK2‐mutation carried a TET2‐mutation but all patients with JAK2V617F plus an MPL‐mutation harbored a somatic TET2‐mutation. Four genomic clusters could be identified in the JAK2V617F‐positive cohort. Cluster‐I (10%) (noncanonical JAK2mutated (mut) + TET2wildtype (wt)) were younger and had less proliferative disease compared with cluster‐IV (5%) (TET2mut + MPLmut). In conclusion, recurrent concomitant classical and/or noncanonical JAK2‐ and MPL‐mutations could be detected by NGS in 15.7% of JAK2V617F‐ and MPLW515‐positive MF patients with genotype‐phenotype associations. Many of the germline and/or somatic mutations might act as “Significantly Mutated Genes” contributing to the pathogenesis and phenotypic heterogeneity. A cost‐effective NGS‐based approach might be an important step towards patient‐tailored medicine.
New Approach for Securing and Dating Valuable Printed Documents
Authors: Basta Altaf H. , El‐Saied Houssni , Salim Ahmad S. , Mohamed Mohamed A.
Published: May 2019

This work deals with using a novel approach for securing and dating printed documents, which will detect any forging crime present. In this respect, the coded dots matrices (machine identification code (MIC)) for the used printers are extracted via a binary system of base 2 (0, 1). The UV ink used in the printing process is prepared from novel fluorescence compounds together with polyvinyl alcohol. Different Xerox models of color laser printers are used for printing the document designs. The data obtained reveal that the investigated approach is succeeded in specifying the date of the printing process together with translating the embedded data of the printer to visible information, which can be tracked under a UV lamp. This innovative approach will assist workers in examining the questioned document by specifying the authorized date and position of printed documents from the MIC.
Likelihood of depressive symptoms in US older adults by prescribed opioid potency: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005‐2013
Authors: Brooks Jessica M. , Petersen Curtis , Kelly Stephanie M. , Reid Manney C.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To investigate the relationships between depressive symptoms and opioid potency among adults aged 50 years and older reporting use of one or more prescription opioids in the past 30 days.

Materials/Design

Adjusted multiple linear regression models were conducted with 2005‐2013 files from a secondary cross‐sectional dataset, the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Respondents were community‐dwelling, noninstitutionalized adults 50 years or older (n = 1036). Predictor variables included a positive screen for minor depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ‐9] score greater than or equal to 5 and less than or equal to 9), moderate depression symptoms (PHQ‐9 greater than or equal to 10 and less than or equal to 14), and severe depression symptoms (PHQ‐9 greater than or equal to 15). Criterion variables included weaker‐than‐morphine analgesics (eg, codeine and tramadol) and morphine‐equivalent opioids (eg, morphine and hydrocodone), which served as the reference category, as well as stronger‐than‐morphine opioid analgesics (eg, fentanyl and oxycodone).

Results

Prevalence rates for symptoms of minor depression, moderate depression, and severe depression were n = 236 (22.8%), n = 135 (13.0%), and n = 122 (11.8%), respectively. Severe depression was significantly associated with high‐potency opioid use (odds ratio [OR]: 2.27; confidence interval [CI], 1.16‐4.46). In post hoc tests, severe depression remained significantly associated with high‐potency opioid use only among respondents without arthritis (OR: 5.80; CI, 1.59‐21.13).

Conclusions

Compared with older adults without depressive symptoms, older adults with severe depressive symptoms are more likely to be taking high‐potency opioid medications. Future prescription opioid medication research should prioritize investigations among older adults with pain‐related diagnoses, other than arthritis, reporting preexisting or new symptoms of severe depression.
Simultaneous interference of SP1 and HIF1α retarding the proliferation, migration, and invasion of human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC‐1) under hypoxia
Authors: Ai Liqianyu , Lin Sen , Huang Chanjuan , Gao Ling , Zhou Jiaxing , Chen Chunlin , Ye Jian
Published: May 2019

Objective

To investigate the regulation of special protein 1 (SP1) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF1α) on human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC‐1) under hypoxic conditions.

Methods

The expression of SP1 and HIF1α under normoxia and hypoxic conditions were assessed by Western blot. SP1 and HIF1α were knocked down by small interfering RNA (siRNA) under hypoxic conditions. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of HMEC‐1 were measured by cell counting kit 8, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine and Transwell coculture system. Western blot analysis and Immunofluorescence were carried out to study the mechanisms of simultaneously inhibiting the adenosine triphosphatase (CD39), 5′‐nucleotidase (CD73), adenosine, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We compared the inhibitory effects between groups concurrently interfering SP1, HIF‐1α, and ranibizumab under hypoxic conditions.

Results

Under hypoxic conditions, the protein expression of SP1 and HIF1α was increased in HMEC‐1, contrarily, SP1 siRNA and HIF1α siRNA downregulated the expression. Simultaneous inhibition of SP1 and HIF1α demonstrated a much greater restraint of proliferation, migration, and invasion characteristics on HMEC‐1 than respectively knocking down SP1 or HIF1α and anti‐VEGF drugs (0.5 mg/mL ranibizumab) (siRNA and the VEGF inhibitor were applied separately in different groups). Meanwhile, simultaneous inhibition of SP1 and HIF1α effectively reduced the expression of CD39, CD73, adenosine, and VEGF on HMEC‐1 under hypoxic conditions.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that both SP1 and HIF1α played important roles in HMEC‐1 under hypoxia condition. Simultaneous inhibition of SP1 and HIF1α effectively decreased the activity of HMEC‐1 under hypoxic conditions through the CD39‐CD73‐adenosine and VEGF angiogenesis pathways. Our study may provide a new approach to the treatment of retinal neovascular diseases.
Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II regulates mammalian axon growth by affecting F‐actin length in growth cone
Authors: Xi Feng , Xu Ren‐Jie , Xu Jin‐Hui , Ma Jin‐Jin , Wang Wei‐Hua , Wang Feng , Ma Yan‐Xia , Qi Shi‐Bin , Zhang Hong‐Cheng , Zhang Hao‐Nan , Qin Xu‐Zhen , Chen Jian‐Quan , Li Bin , Liu Chang‐Mei , Yang Hui‐Lin , Meng Bin , Saijilafu
Published: May 2019

While axon regeneration is a key determinant of functional recovery of the nervous system after injury, it is often poor in the mature nervous system. Influx of extracellular calcium (Ca2+) is one of the first phenomena that occur following axonal injury, and calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), a target substrate for calcium ions, regulates the status of cytoskeletal proteins such as F‐actin. Herein, we found that peripheral axotomy activates CaMKII in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) sensory neurons, and inhibition of CaMKII impairs axon outgrowth in both the peripheral and central nervous systems (PNS and CNS, respectively). Most importantly, we also found that the activation of CaMKII promotes PNS and CNS axon growth, and regulatory effects of CaMKII on axon growth occur via affecting the length of the F‐actin. Thus, we believe our findings provide clear evidence that CaMKII is a critical modulator of mammalian axon regeneration.
Potential of nanofiltration and reverse osmosis processes for the recovery of high‐concentrated furfural streams
Authors: Mohamad Nurabiyiah , Reig Mònica , Vecino Xanel , Yong Kelly , Cortina José Luis
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Furfural is an interesting compound that can be produced from renewable and sustainable resources and is used in platform chemicals for the synthesis of biofuels and other chemicals. However, a recovery step is required to separate furfural from lignocellulosic hydrolysates when cellulose‐based raw materials are used. In this work, nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) processes have been evaluated to purify or concentrate synthetic furfural solutions.

RESULTS

Two NF membranes (NF90 and NF270) and three RO membranes (XLE, BW30 and SW30) were evaluated to recover furfural from high‐concentrated solutions containing 9 g furfural L−1. Rejection percentages and permeate flux performances were determined and membranes were characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicated that higher trans‐membrane flux could be obtained by NF membranes, being the highest when using NF membranes (260 ± 14 L m−2 h−1) and the lowest with the BW30 membrane (3.3 ± 0.7 L m−2 h−1) working at 20 bar. On the other hand, NF270 allowed the passage of furfural (around 84 ± 3%), while the other tested membranes (NF90, XLE, SW30 and BW30) rejected it (between 67 ± 2 and 90 ± 3%).

CONCLUSION

For this reason, it can be concluded that NF270 will be an option for furfural purification, while NF90 and RO membranes could be used for concentration purposes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis of New Alicyclic Oxalamide Derivatives and Their Differential Immunomodulatory Activities on the Mammalian Cells
Authors: Kuzu Burak , Ayaz Furkan , Algul Oztekin
Published: May 2019

A series of novel alicyclic oxalamide derivatives were synthesized by the reaction of the N‐alicyclic secondary amine analogs with the intermediates obtained from the reaction of 2‐aminophenol derivatives and diethyl oxalate. Due to their similarities to the thalidomide, these compounds were synthesized as alternative anti‐inflammatory drug candidates. In order to test their efficacies, an in vitro inflammation model was utilized. In this model, macrophages be activated by a danger mimic lipopolysaccharide to produce pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Macrophages are the major cell types that produce cytokines against danger stimuli to regulate the local as well as systemic immune reactions. The alicyclic oxalamide derivatives' immunomodulatory potentials were tested in vitro on the macrophages. Based on our results, these molecules had differential effects on the production of the TNFα and IL6 pro‐inflammatory cytokines by the lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated macrophages. A set of the derivatives had adjuvant and immunostimulatory activities, while another group had anti‐inflammatory activities. Their differential effects on the production of the TNFα and IL6 open new venues for their medicinal applications. One can target a specific cytokine that has been associated with a certain disease while sparing the activity and production of the other cytokine by using a certain selection of the derivatives in our hands.
A skewed distribution and increased PD-1+Vβ+CD4+/CD8+ T cells in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Huang Jingying , Tan Jiaxiong , Chen Youchun , Huang Shuxin , Xu Ling , Zhang Yikai , Lu Yuhong , Yu Zhi , Chen Shaohua , Li Yangqiu
Published: May 2019

The limited application of immunotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) may be due to poor understanding of the global T cell immune dysfunction in AML. In this study, we analyzed the distribution characteristics of 24 TCR Vβ subfamilies in CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells in AML patients and healthy controls. The percentage of TCR Vβ subfamily T cells was predominately lower in most AML cases, while it was increased in some cases. TCR Vβ2+T cells were increased in AML, particularly TCR Vβ2+CD4+T cells, which were significantly higher. To further address the immunosuppression in different Vβ subfamilies, we characterized the distribution of program death-1 (PD-1)+T cells in TCR Vβ subfamilies of CD4+ and CD8+T cells. Significantly higher levels of PD-1+Vβ+T cells were found for most Vβ subfamilies in most AML cases. A higher percentage of PD-1+Vβ2+T cells with a high number of Vβ2+T cells was found in all of the CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ T cell subsets. Moreover, increasing PD-1+Vβ7.2, Vβ8+, Vβ14+, Vβ16+, and Vβ22+CD8+T cells were distributed in the AML-M5 subtype group compared with the AML-M3 group. In addition, higher PD-1+ Vβ5.2+ and PD-1+ Vβ12+CD8+T cells were associated with AML patients who had a poor response to chemotherapy. In conclusion, increased PD-1+Vβ+T cells is a common characteristic of AML, higher PD-1+Vβ2+T cells may be associated with a low antileukemia effect, and higher PD-1+Vβ5.2+ and PD-1+Vβ12+CD8+T cells may be related to poor prognosis in AML. These characteristics may be worth considering as immune biomarkers for clinical outcome in AML.
Radiometals for imaging and theranostics, current production, and future perspectives
Authors: Mikolajczak Renata , van der Meulen Nicholas P. , Lapi Suzanne E.
Published: May 2019

The aim of this review is to make the reader familiar with currently available radiometals, their production modes, capacities, and quality concerns related to their medical use, as well as new emerging radiometals and irradiation technologies from the perspective of their diagnostic and theranostic applications. Production methods of 177Lu serve as an example of various issues related to the production yield, specific activity, radionuclidic and chemical purity, and production economy. Other radiometals that are currently used or explored for potential medical applications, with particular focus on their theranostic value, are discussed. Using radiometals for diagnostic imaging and therapy is on the rise. The high demand for radiometals for medical use prompts investigations towards using alternative irradiation reactions, while using existing nuclear reactors and accelerator facilities. This review discusses these production capacities and what is necessary to cover the growing demand for theranostic nuclides.
A rare PHKA2 variant (p.G991A) identified in a patient with ketotic hypoglycemia
Authors: Ago Yasuhiko , Sugie Hideo , Fukuda Tokiko , Otsuka Hiroki , Sasai Hideo , Nakama Mina , Abdelkreem Elsayed , Fukao Toshiyuki
Published: May 2019

We describe the case of a 4‐year‐old boy who suffered from frequent ketotic hypoglycemia (KH) but did not have hepatomegaly or elevated liver enzyme levels. However, the patient was found to have a rare variant in the PHKA2 gene. To detect the underlying disease in this case, we performed a gene panel analysis covering 59 genes that are involved in fatty acid oxidation, ketone body metabolism and transport, and glycogen storage diseases. We found no reported disease‐causing mutations. However, the p.G991A variant in PHKA2 was detected. The allele frequency of this variant is 4.57 × 10−5 in the population worldwide, but in Japan it is 5.15 × 10−3. We suspect that this variant may be a major cause of KH in Japanese patients. We performed an enzyme assay on blood cells from the patient. Although the activity of the current PhK variant was not low, it did exhibit thermal instability and a lower affinity to phosphorylase b than the wild type. The patient needed bedtime uncooked cornstarch supplementation from age 5 years until he was 9 years old. The patient's condition improved spontaneously without neurological complications. The clinical course and prognosis in this case are similar to those of glycogen storage disease type IXa, which is also caused by an abnormality of PHKA2.
MRI‐derived regional flow‐volume loop parameters detect early‐stage chronic lung allograft dysfunction
Authors: Moher Alsady Tawfik , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Greer Mark , Becker Lena , Kaireit Till F. , Welte Tobias , Wacker Frank , Gottlieb Jens , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: May 2019

Background

Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) is a major cause for the low long‐term survival rates after lung transplantation (LTx). Early detection of CLAD may enable providing medical treatment before a nonreversible graft dysfunction has occurred. MRI is advantageous to pulmonary function testing (PFT) in the ability to assess regional function changes, and thus have the potential in detecting very early stages of CLAD before changes in global forced expiratory volume during the first second (FEV1%) occur.

Purpose

To examine whether early stages of CLAD (diagnosed based on PFT values) could also be detected using MRI‐derived parameters of regional flow‐volume dynamics.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

62 lung transplantation recipients were included in the study, 29 of which had been diagnosed with CLAD at various stages.

Field Strength/Sequence

MRI datasets were acquired with a 1.5T Siemens scanner using a spoiled gradient echo sequence.

Assessment

MRI datasets were retrospectively preprocessed and analyzed by a blinded radiologist according to the phase resolved functional lung MRI (PREFUL‐MRI) approach, resulting in fractional ventilation (FV) maps and regional flow‐volume loops (rFVL). FV‐ and rFVL‐based parameters of regional lung ventilation were estimated.

Statistical Tests

Differences between groups were compared by Mann–Whitney U‐test with a Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons (n = 2).

Results

rFVL‐CC‐based parameters discriminated significantly between the presence or absence of CLAD (P < 0.003).

Data Conclusion

Using the contrast media‐free PREFUL‐MRI technique, parameters of ventilation dynamics and its regional heterogeneity were shown to be sensitive for the detection of early CLAD stages.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1873–1882.
Ultrashort echo time imaging of the lungs under high‐frequency noninvasive ventilation: A new approach to lung imaging
Authors: Delacoste Jean , Dournes Gael , Dunet Vincent , Ogna Adam , Noirez Leslie , Simons Julien , Long Olivier , Berchier Grégoire , Stuber Matthias , Lovis Alban , Beigelman‐Aubry Catherine
Published: May 2019

Background

Although ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequences allow excellent assessment of lung parenchyma, image quality remains lower than that of computed tomography (CT).

Purpose

To investigate a high‐frequency noninvasive ventilation (HF‐NIV) technique allowing a stabilized inspiration and to compare image quality with current dedicated MR sequences.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Ten healthy volunteers.

Field Strength/Sequence

3D radial UTE sequence at 1.5T.

Assessment

UTE‐HF‐NIV sequence was compared with UTE‐free‐breathing (UTE‐FB), reconstructed at end expiration (UTE‐Exp) and average (UTE‐Avg), and breath‐hold VIBE sequences. The distance from lung apex to the dome of the right hemidiaphragm was measured. Visual assessment of the visibility and sharpness of normal anatomical structures was carried out. Dedicated software also quantitatively evaluated vessel–lung and right lung–liver interface sharpness. Apparent signal ratio (Sr) and contrast ratios (Cr) were quantitatively evaluated.

Statistical Tests

Wilcoxon signed rank test for visual scores, paired t‐test for continuous variables, significance at P < 0.05.

Results

The distance between apex and the right hemidiaphragmatic dome was significantly larger (P < 0.001) with UTE‐HF‐NIV compared with UTE‐FB and VIBE acquisitions. Vessel and airway visibility had identical median visual scores with all UTE methods. Median visual scores for sharpness of vessels and airways were significantly higher (P < 0.001) with HF‐NIV (vessels = 3; airways = 2) than in UTE‐FB (vessels = 2; airways = 1) and VIBE (vessels = 1; airways = 1). Software‐based vessel sharpness evaluation resulted in larger values in 8/10 volunteers with UTE‐HF‐NIV (67.3 ± 9.8) compared with UTE‐Avg (62.3 ± 12.6) but the average difference was not significant (P = 0.28). The sharpness of the lung–liver interface was significantly higher (P < 0.001) with HF‐NIV (17.3 ± 5.3) compared with UTE‐Avg (14.1 ± 3.9). Significantly higher values (P < 0.01) of Sr and Cr were observed with UTE‐HF‐NIV compared with UTE‐FB and VIBE.

Data Conclusion

HF‐NIV allowing acquisition at full inspiration significantly improves image quality for lung imaging. This could offer the option to alternate some follow‐up CT studies by using this technique.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1789–1797.
Diffusion‐Weighted MRI of Breast Cancer: Improved Lesion Visibility and Image Quality Using Synthetic b‐Values
Authors: Bickel Hubert , Polanec Stephan H. , Wengert Georg , Pinker Katja , Bogner Wolfgang , Helbich Thomas H. , Baltzer Pascal A.
Published: May 2019

Background

Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) is an MRI technique with the potential to serve as an unenhanced breast cancer detection tool. Synthetic b‐values produce images with high diffusion weighting to suppress residual background signal, while avoiding additional measurement times and reducing artifacts.

Purpose

To compare acquired DWI images (at b = 850 s/mm2) and different synthetic b‐values (at b = 1000–2000 s/mm2) in terms of lesion visibility, image quality, and tumor‐to‐tissue contrast in patients with malignant breast tumors.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Fifty‐three females with malignant breast lesions.

Field Strength/Sequence

T2w, DWI EPI with STIR fat‐suppression, and dynamic contrast‐enhanced T1w at 3T.

Assessment

From acquired images using b‐values of 50 and 850 s/mm2, synthetic images were calculated at b = 1000, 1200, 1400, 1600, 1800, and 2000 s/mm2. Four readers independently rated image quality, lesion visibility, preferred b‐value, as well as the lowest and highest b‐value, over the range of b‐values tested, to provide a diagnostic image.

Statistical Tests

Medians and mean ranks were calculated and compared using the Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. Reproducibility was analyzed by intraclass correlation (ICC), Fleiss, and Cohen's κ.

Results

Relative signal‐to‐noise and contrast‐to‐noise ratios decreased with increasing b‐values, while the signal‐intensity ratio between tumor and tissue increased significantly (P < 0.001). Intermediate b‐values (1200–1800 s/mm2) were rated best concerning image quality and lesion visibility; the preferred b‐value mostly lay at 1200–1600 s/mm2. Lowest and highest acceptable b‐values were 850 s/mm2 and 2000 s/mm2. Interreader agreement was moderate to high concerning image quality (ICC: 0.50–0.67) and lesion visibility (0.70–0.93), but poor concerning preferred and acceptable b‐values (κ = 0.032–0.446).

Data Conclusion

Synthetically increased b‐values may be a way to improve tumor‐to‐tissue contrast, lesion visibility, and image quality of breast DWI, while avoiding the disadvantages of performing DWI at very high b‐values.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1754–1761.
The indirect relations of workplace incivility with emotional exhaustion and supportive behaviors via self‐blame: The moderating roles of observed incivility and trait emotional control
Authors: Tong Jiajin , Chong SinHui , Johnson Russell E.
Published: May 2019

Drawing from the social cognitive theory of self‐regulation, we develop a model linking experienced incivility to emotional exhaustion and supportive behaviors via self‐blame, with observed incivility experienced by coworkers as a first‐stage moderator and trait emotional control as a second‐stage moderator. We contend that employees will experience self‐blame if they perceive themselves to be distinct targets of incivility (i.e., observed incivility experienced by others is low). Self‐blame can potentially trigger prosocial responses for improving the situation, but self‐blaming targets rarely respond in a prosocial manner because rational attempts to do so are thwarted by deleterious negative emotions accompanying self‐blame. We argue that trait emotional control provides resources for managing these negative emotions to unleash a bright side of self‐blame, such that the relation of self‐blame with prosocial responses (i.e., being supportive to coworkers) will be more positive and the relation of self‐blame with emotional exhaustion will be less positive for individuals with high (vs. low) trait emotional control. Multiwave data collected from a sample of 220 police officers largely support our hypotheses, indicating that the indirect relation of experienced incivility with supportive behaviors via self‐blame is strongest at lower levels of observed incivility and higher levels of emotional control.
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index‐based assessment of climate change impact on vegetation growth in the humid‐arid transition zone in northern China during 1982–2013
Authors: Yuan Wei , Wu Shuang‐Ye , Hou Shugui , Xu Zhiwei , Lu Huayu
Published: May 2019

As an ecologically sensitive region, the humid‐to‐arid climate transition zone in the eastern and central north China (ECNC) has experienced varied vegetation change in recent decades, but the exact impacts of climate change and human activities remain uncertain. Based on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), we established the trend of vegetation change in the past three decades (1982–2013) in the ECNC, and examined the impact of climate and nonclimate factors on vegetation growth within the different eco‐regions. For the study period, the climate in ECNC became significantly warmer and slightly drier, and the overall NDVI increased significantly, but with great spatial variations. Our results suggest that temperature increase has promoted vegetation growth in places that are colder and/or wetter, and with higher vegetation coverage. Precipitation increase has promoted vegetation growth in drier places with sparse vegetation and inhibited growth in wet places with high vegetation coverage. As different eco‐regions typically have different vegetation coverage and occupy different climate zones, their response to climate change also varies. For the study period, increasing temperature and decreasing precipitation promoted vegetation growth in the forest of northern ECNC. Increasing temperature and precipitation led to NDVI increase in the grassland in the south, whereas grassland in the north and west showed no significant change despite temperature increase and precipitation decrease. Cropland responded mostly positively to temperature increase, although correlations between NDVI and climate factors were generally weaker. Using multiple regression models, we found that 60% of the NDVI increase was attributed to climate factors whereas the remaining 40% was likely caused by human activities. Although farming practices and crop rotations might have caused significant decrease in NDVI in small areas, human impact largely led to significant NDVI increase in the grass‐crop transition zones, most likely due to ecological restoration programs.
Contrast‐Enhanced Computed Tomography Scoring System for Distinguishing Early Osteoarthritis Disease States: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Stewart Rachel C. , Nelson Brad B. , Kawcak Chris E. , Freedman Jonathan D. , Snyder Brian D. , Goodrich Laurie R. , Grinstaff Mark W.
Published: May 2019

Early detection of osteoarthritis (OA) remains a diagnostic challenge owing to insensitive diagnostic techniques currently available. Herein a new semiquantitative scoring system, based upon contrast‐enhanced computed tomographic (CECT) imaging, is described for further refinement of early OA disease staging. Trochlear ridge cartilage defects were surgically created in the femoropatellar joint of an adult horse (ACUC approved protocols). Seven weeks post‐surgery, CECT imaging was performed on a clinical scanner after intra‐articular injection of a cationic iodinated contrast agent, CA4+, into both injured and control femoropatellar joint compartments. The femoral cartilage surface was densely biopsied, and specimens were assessed for visual (Outerbridge score), functional (equilibrium compressive modulus), and biochemical (glycosaminoglycan content) measures of cartilage quality. Cartilage CECT attenuation was compared with cartilage quality measures using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to establish attenuation thresholds for distinguishing among cartilage quality levels. CECT imaging identifies macroscopically damaged cartilage regions and in morphologically identical tissue provides moderately sensitive and specific semiquantitative segregation of cartilage quality based upon CECT attenuation, reflecting both glycosaminoglycan content and compressive stiffness of cartilage area under the curve (AUC = 0.83 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.72–0.93] for distinguishing poor quality and AUC = 0.76 [95% CI: 0.65–0.90] for distinguishing healthy quality cartilage). A semiquantitative 6‐point scoring system—the Osteoarthritis Attenuation and Morphological Assessment (OAMA) score—is proposed as a tool for assessing cartilage quality from CECT images. The OAMA scoring system expands the current disease staging capability of early OA by inclusion of morphological, biochemical, and biomechanical assessments. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2138–2148, 2019
Temperature‐induced phonon behavior in titanium disulfide (TiS2) nanosheets
Authors: Dużyńska A. , Judek J. , Wilczyński K. , Zberecki K. , Łapińska A. , Wróblewska A. , Zdrojek M.
Published: May 2019

A detailed study of temperature‐dependent phonon properties of exfoliated titanium disulphide (TiS2) nanosheets probed by Raman spectroscopy in the 80‐ to 450‐K temperature range is reported here. The TiS2 Raman mode (Eg, A1g, and Sh) positions exhibit linear shift dependences; however, in contradiction to typical behavior, the Sh mode surprisingly exhibits positive first‐order temperature coefficient (χ=0.0592 cm‐1/K) with increase of the temperature. In addition, the widths of studied peaks typically increase with temperature and peak intensity ratio shows no changes proving that relative phonon population is not affected by temperature. Our findings can be useful for further analysis of phonon properties and determination of thermal conductivity of supported TiS2 thin films for advanced electronics devices.
A blended inherent optical property algorithm for global satellite ocean color observations
Authors: Shi Wei , Wang Menghua
Published: May 2019

Water inherent optical properties (IOPs) can be derived from satellite‐measured normalized water‐leaving radiance (nLw(λ)) spectra. In this study, we evaluate the performance of the quasi‐analytical algorithm (QAA) and the near‐infrared (NIR)‐based IOP algorithm using a Hydrolight simulation data set covering a wide range of water types that span from clear open ocean to turbid coastal/inland waters. The NIR‐based algorithm produces significantly improved IOP retrievals over turbid coastal and inland waters, while the QAA algorithm performs well in the open ocean and less turbid coastal waters. Based on the advantages of the NIR‐based and QAA‐based algorithms, a combination of the NIR‐ and QAA‐based algorithm has been proposed using satellite‐measured nLw(745) as the threshold in order to produce accurate IOP products for both the open ocean and turbid coastal/inland waters. The new combined IOP algorithm can produce reasonably accurate IOP data for all water types, and can be easily implemented into the satellite ocean color data processing. The La Plata River Estuary region is used as an example to show the difference in performance of IOP retrievals from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) measurements between 2012 and 2017 with the NIR‐based, QAA‐based, and NIR‐QAA combined IOP algorithms. We also demonstrate that the NIR‐QAA combined algorithm can be applied to VIIRS global ocean color observations to derive good quality IOP products in China's east coastal region, the US east coastal region, and the region of Mississippi River Estuary and tributaries.
Breaking Out the Traditional Polymerization: Tailoring the Shape, Structure, and Optical Properties of Polydopamine by Using CdTe Quantum Dots
Authors: Ortega Greter A. , Zuaznabar‐Gardona Julio C. , Mendoza‐León Héctor F. , Cayetano‐Castro Nicolás , Acevedo‐Peña Próspero , Reguera Edilso
Published: May 2019

The potential applications of shape‐controlled polymeric nanostructures demand well‐defined methods to create tailored shapes. On the other hand, polydopamine (PDA) is a novel polymer promising a variety of innovative applications in many different areas. Since there is no consensus on the pathways involved in the mechanism of formation of PDA, the control of the final morphologies of PDA nanostructures is a challenging task. Herein, it is demonstrated for the first time, how CdTe quantum dots (CdTe QDs) can be used to control the final shape of polymeric structures, in particular, PDA particles. Oxidative self‐polymerization of dopamine is performed in the presence of CdTe QDs, which triggers the formation of blue‐colored rod‐like PDA particles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV‐Vis, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) and Raman spectroscopies, and electrochemical techniques are employed to characterize the structural features of the rod‐like PDA particles. Herein, CdTe QDs modulate the oxidative polymerization of dopamine by the supramolecular assembly of PDA building blocks by π–π and hydrogen bonding interactions, coordination with cadmium ions, and electron transfer processes. The results illustrated here describe a new strategy to manipulate the morphology of PDA nanostructures leading to novel optical properties, opening new applications, and shedding light on the complex mechanism of PDA formation.
Reprocessable and Shape Memory Thermosetting Epoxy Resins Based on Silyl Ether Equilibration
Authors: Liu Qinfeng , Jiang Liang , Zhao Yuanyang , Wang Yi , Lei Jingxin
Published: May 2019

A novel epoxy thermoset is synthesized with dynamic SiOSi bonds. The thermosetting epoxy resins possess excellent reprocessing, reshaping, and shape memory ability due to the special molecular structure. The material exhibits high tensile strength and a fast stress relaxation process. Surprisingly, it can achieve complete healing and keep stable mechanical property after multi‐processing.
Scales to assess impulsive and compulsive behaviors in Parkinson's disease: Critique and recommendations
Authors: Evans Andrew H. , Okai David , Weintraub Daniel , Lim Shen‐Yang , O'Sullivan Sean S. , Voon Valerie , Krack Paul , Sampaio Cristina , Post Bart , Leentjens Albert F.G. , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Stebbins Glenn T. , Goetz Christopher G. , Schrag Anette ,   the Members of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (IPMDS) Rating Scales Review Committee
Published: May 2019

Impulse control disorders (ICDs) and related impulsive and compulsive behaviors (together called ICBs) have been increasingly recognized in the context of Parkinson's disease (PD) and treatment. The International Parkinson's and Movement Disorder Society commissioned a task force to assess available clinical screening instruments and rating scales, including their clinimetric properties, make recommendations regarding their utility, and suggest future directions in scale development and validation. The literature was systematically searched for scales measuring a range of reported ICBs in PD. A scale was designated “recommended” if the scale had been employed in PD studies, been used beyond the group that developed it, and had adequate clinimetric data published for PD. Numerous diagnostic screening tools and severity rating scales were identified for a range of ICBs, including compulsive medication use, punding/hobbyism, walkabout, pathological gambling, hypersexuality, compulsive or binge eating, compulsive buying, reckless driving, compulsive exercise, pyromania, trichotillomania, hoarding, kleptomania, intermittent explosive disorder, and internet addiction. For screening across the range of ICBs (except compulsive medication use), the Questionnaire for Impulsive‐Compulsive Disorders in Parkinson's disease (QUIP) and QUIP‐Rating Scale (QUIP‐RS) are recommended, and for severity rating across the range of ICBs the QUIP‐RS and the Ardouin Scale of Behavior in Parkinson's Disease are recommended. The Scale for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease–Psychiatric Complications is recommended for rating of hypersexuality and the compulsive behaviors gambling/shopping. Further testing of established scales against gold standard diagnostic criteria is urgently required for all other individual ICBs in PD. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Peripheral mitochondrial function correlates with clinical severity in idiopathic Parkinson's disease
Authors: Milanese Chiara , Payán‐Gómez César , Galvani Marta , Molano González Nicolás , Tresini Maria , Nait Abdellah Soraya , van Roon‐Mom Willeke M. C. , Figini Silvia , Marinus Johan , van Hilten Jacobus J. , Mastroberardino Pier G.
Published: May 2019

Background

Parkinson's disease is an intractable disorder with heterogeneous clinical presentation that may reflect different underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Surrogate indicators of pathogenic processes correlating with clinical measures may assist in better patient stratification. Mitochondrial function, which is impaired in and central to PD pathogenesis, may represent one such surrogate indicator.

Methods

Mitochondrial function was assessed by respirometry experiment in fibroblasts derived from idiopathic patients (n = 47) in normal conditions and in experimental settings that do not permit glycolysis and therefore force energy production through mitochondrial function. Respiratory parameters and clinical measures were correlated with bivariate analysis. Machine‐learning‐based classification and regression trees were used to classify patients on the basis of biochemical and clinical measures. The effects of mitochondrial respiration on α‐synuclein stress were assessed monitoring the protein phosphorylation in permitting versus restrictive glycolysis conditions.

Results

Bioenergetic properties in peripheral fibroblasts correlate with clinical measures in idiopathic patients, and the correlation is stronger with predominantly nondopaminergic signs. Bioenergetic analysis under metabolic stress, in which energy is produced solely by mitochondria, shows that patients’ fibroblasts can augment respiration, therefore indicating that mitochondrial defects are reversible. Forcing energy production through mitochondria, however, favors α‐synuclein stress in different cellular experimental systems. Machine‐learning‐based classification identified different groups of patients in which increasing disease severity parallels higher mitochondrial respiration.

Conclusion

The suppression of mitochondrial activity in PD may be an adaptive strategy to cope with concomitant pathogenic factors. Moreover, mitochondrial measures in fibroblasts are potential peripheral biomarkers to follow disease progression. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.