bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Affinity of Glycan‐Modified Nanodiamonds towards Lectins and Uropathogenic Escherichia Coli
Authors: Turcheniuk Volodymyr , Turcheniuk Kostiantyn , Bouckaert Julie , Barras Alexandre , Dumych Tetiana , Bilyy Rostyslav , Zaitsev Vladimir , Siriwardena Aloysius , Wang Qi , Boukherroub Rabah , Szunerits Sabine
Published: February 2016

Nanodiamond particles (NDs) modified with glycan ligands are revealing themselves to have great promise as new nanomaterials for combating biofilm formation and as promising anti‐adhesive scaffolds. Currently, the strategies at hand to formulate glycan‐modified NDs (glyco‐NDs) are limited to a few reports. We demonstrate herein that the photoinduced covalent attachment of unmodified sugars results in glyco‐NDs with high binding affinity to lectins and a uropathogenic Escherichia coli strain (E. coli UTI89). While the binding affinities of glyco‐NDs to different lectins is partially sacrificed when monosaccharides such as mannose are photochemically integrated onto NDs, in the case of disaccharides and oligosaccharides the binding affinity of glyco‐NDs to lectins is preserved. Moreover, mannan‐modified NDs show strong interactions with uropathogenic E. coli., suggesting the effectiveness of photochemically formed glyco‐NDs for disruption of E. coli‐mediated biofilms.
Structural Evolution of an Organic Semiconducting Molecule onto a Soft Substrate
Authors: Martínez‐Tong Daniel E. , Ruzié Christian , Geerts Yves H. , Sferrazza Michele
Published: February 2016

The structural organization and evolution of the organic semiconducting molecule 2,7‐dioctyloxy[1]benzothieno[3,2‐b]‐benzothiophene on a soft matrix is studied. Thin films of a blend formed from polystyrene and the molecule were prepared by spin‐coating onto silicon substrates, which were subsequently studied by using a combination of microscopy and scattering techniques. The organic semiconducting molecule segregated to the surface and developed a phase with a different structure to the bulk, as in the case of a substrate induced phase observed previously. Under a solvent vapor annealing procedure, the growth of micrometer‐sized tetragonal crystals onto the polymer surface was observed, which was not evidenced for the silicon substrates.
δ‐Methyl Branching in the Side Chain Makes the Difference: Access to Room‐Temperature Discotics
Authors: Kirres Jochen , Knecht Friederike , Seubert Philipp , Baro Angelika , Laschat Sabine
Published: February 2016

Although discotic liquid crystals are attractive functional materials, their use in electronic devices is often restricted by high melting and clearing points. Among the promising candidates for applications are [15]crown‐5 ether‐based liquid crystals with peripheral n‐alkoxy side chains, which, however, still have melting points above room temperature. To overcome this problem, a series of o‐terphenyl and triphenylene [15]crown‐5 ether derivatives was prepared in which δ‐methyl‐branched alkoxy side chains of varying lengths substitute the peripheral linear alkoxy chains. The mesomorphic properties of the novel crown ethers were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing optical microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction.

δ‐Methyl branching indeed lowers melting points resulting in room‐temperature hexagonal columnar mesophases. The mesophase widths, which ranged from 87 to 30 K for o‐terphenyls, significantly increased to 106–147 K for the triphenylenes depending on the chain lengths, revealing the beneficial effect of a flat mesogen, due to improved π–π interactions.
On the Role of Viscosity in the Eyring Equation
Authors: Kistemaker Jos C. M. , Lubbe Anouk S. , Bloemsma Erik A. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: February 2016

Transition‐state theory allows for the characterization of kinetic processes in terms of enthalpy and entropy of activation by using the Eyring equation. However, for reactions in solution, it fails to take the change of viscosity of solvents with temperature into account. A second‐generation unidirectional rotary molecular motor was used as a probe to study the effects of temperature‐dependent viscosity changes upon unimolecular thermal isomerization processes. By combining the free‐volume model with transition‐state theory, a modified version of the Eyring equation was derived, in which the rate is expressed in terms of both temperature and viscosity.
Labelling Bacterial Nanocages with Photo‐switchable Fluorophores
Authors: Putri Rindia M. , Fredy Jean Wilfried , Cornelissen Jeroen J. L. M. , Koay Melissa S. T. , Katsonis Nathalie
Published: February 2016

The robustness and biocompatibility of bacterial nanocages holds promise for bio‐nanotechnologies. The propensity of these nano‐carriers to penetrate cells has been demonstrated, which calls for the development of tracking strategies, both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we label bacterial nanocages with photo‐switchable fluorophores, to facilitate their imaging by super‐resolution microscopy. We demonstrate the functionalization of the encapsulin from Brevibacterium linens with a spiropyran, which is not fluorescent, by covalent attachment to the amine residues at the outer encapsulin shell. Upon alternating irradiation with ultraviolet and visible light, the spiropyran switches forth and back to its fluorescent merocyanine photo‐isomer and thus the fluorescence can be switched on and off, reversibly. We also show that the bacterial compartments preserve their structural integrity upon covalent modification and over at least five irradiation cycles.
TCNQ Interlayers for Colloidal Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Koh Weon‐kyu , Shin Taeho , Jung Changhoon , Cho Dr‐ Kyung‐Sang
Published: February 2016

CdSe/CdS/ZnS quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QD‐LEDs) show increased brightness (from ca. 18 000 to 27 000 cd m−2) with 7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) between the QD and electron‐transfer layers of ZnO nanoparticles. As QD/ZnO layers are known to have interface defects, our finding leads to the importance of interface engineering for QD‐LEDs. Although the photoluminescent intensity and decay lifetime of ZnO/TCNQ/QD layers are similar to those of ZnO/QD layers, cyclic voltammetry suggests improved charge transfer of TCNQ/ZnO layers compared to that of pure ZnO layers. This helps us to understand the mechanism of electrically driven QD‐LED behavior, which differs from that of conventional solid‐state LEDs, and enables the rational design of QD‐based optoelectronic devices.
Perchlorination of Coronene Enhances its Propensity for Self‐Assembly on Graphene
Authors: Conti Simone , Rosso Maria G. del , Ciesielski Artur , Weippert Jürgen , Böttcher Artur , Shin Yuyoung , Melinte Georgian , Ersen Ovidiu , Casiraghi Cinzia , Feng Xinliang , Müllen Klaus , Kappes Manfred M. , Samorì Paolo , Cecchini Marco
Published: February 2016

The front cover artwork is provided by the Institut de Science et d'Ingénierie Supramoléculaires (ISIS, UMR 7006) at the University of Strasbourg. The image shows how perchlorofunctionalization of coronene enhances its propensity to form a self‐assembled monolayer at the liquid–graphene interface, as highlighted by the greater surface area covered by the perchlorocoronene. Read the full text of the Review at 10.1002/cphc.201501113
Morphology‐Dependent Activities of Silver Phosphates: Visible‐Light Water Oxidation and Dye Degradation
Authors: Menezes Prashanth W. , Indra Arindam , Schwarze Michael , Schuster Felix , Driess Matthias
Published: February 2016

Conversion of sunlight to storable solar fuels offers a convenient and a promising route to renewable energy that is more important on account of the limited availability of fossil fuels and its global environmental benefits. One of the best ways to generate solar fuels is by splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen using visible‐light photocatalysts. Presented is a facile, scalable, and convenient strategy for the preparation of silver phosphate (Ag3PO4) particles with diverse morphology for visible‐light water oxidation and dye degradation. Changing the solvents in the reactions resulted in altered morphology such as ellipsoids, irregular shapes, polyhedra, and sphere‐type particles. These were then extensively characterized. Variation in the activity of photochemical water oxidation and dye degradation was observed during photocatalysis depending on the morphology, whereby the ellipsoids of Ag3PO4 displayed enhanced catalytic performance.
Direct comparison of liquid‐based and smear‐based cytology with and without rapid on‐site evaluation for fine needle aspirates of thoracic tumors
Authors: Mfokazi A. , Wright C.A. , Louw M. , Von Groote‐Bidlingmaier F. , Schubert P. T. , Koegelenberg C. F. N. , Diacon A. H.
Published: February 2016

Background

Liquid‐based cytology (LBC) and rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) are proposed to improve the quality of fine needle aspirates (FNA) and their diagnostic yield compared with conventional smear cytology (CSC). This prospective study directly compared outcomes of sonar‐guided FNA of thoracic tumors supported by LBC, CSC, or CSC with ROSE.

Methods

Three aspirates each for both LBC and CSC with separate 22G spinal needles in a randomized, alternating sequence during 64 transthoracic FNA of thoracic tumors were collected. Smears were prepared by cytology staff on site but evaluated with ROSE only when all six samples had been collected. If no diagnostic material was found on the first three CSC additional needle passes guided by ROSE were performed.

Results

Final diagnoses were non‐small cell lung cancer in 50 (78.1%), small cell lung cancer in 11 (17.2%), mesothelioma in 1 (1.6%), and inflammation in 2 cases (3.1%), respectively. LBC and CSC were diagnostic in 42 (65.6%) and 49 (76.6%) cases, respectively (P = 0.039), with both methods diagnostic in 41 cases (64.1%). Fifteen cases (23.4%) remained undiagnosed following three passes for CSC but 9 (14.1%) of these were diagnosed using FNA and ROSE with a total yield of 58 cases (90.6%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The diagnostic yield of transthoracic FNA submitted for LBC is significantly lower than with CSC when slides are prepared professionally. ROSE significantly increases the yield of transthoracic FNA. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2016;44:363–368. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, NMR Spectroscopy, and Vibrational Spectroscopy of Sr(PO3F)·H2O and Sr(PO3F)
Authors: Jantz Stephan G. , van Wüllen Leo , Fischer Andreas , Libowitzky Eugen , Baran Enrique J. , Weil Matthias , Höppe Henning A.
Published: February 2016

Single crystals of Sr(PO3F)·H2O {P21/c, Z = 4, a = 7.4844(2) Å, b = 7.0793(2) Å, c = 8.4265(2) Å, β = 108.696(1)°, V = 422.91(2) Å3, 2391 Fo2, 70 parameters, R1[F2 > 2σ(F2)] = 0.036; wR2(F2 all) = 0.049, S = 1.054} were grown from an aqueous solution by a metathesis reaction. The structure comprises [SrO8] polyhedra and PO3F tetrahedra that form a layered arrangement parallel to (100). The topotactic dehydration of this phase proceeds between 80 and 140 °C to afford Sr(PO3F). The monazite‐type crystal structure of Sr(PO3F) was elucidated from the X‐ray powder data by simulated annealing [P21/c, Z = 4, a = 6.71689(9) Å, b = 7.11774(11) Å, c = 8.66997(13) Å, β = 128.0063(7)°, V = 326.605(8) Å3, Rp = 0.010, Rwp = 0.015, RF = 0.030]. During dehydration, the structure of Sr(PO3F)·H2O collapses along [100] from a layered arrangement into a framework structure, accompanied by a change of the coordination number of the Sr2+ ions from eight to nine. The magic‐angle spinning (MAS) NMR and vibrational spectroscopy data of both phases are discussed.
A Highly Efficient Pd(PPh3)4‐Catalyzed Suzuki Cross‐Coupling Method for the Preparation of 2‐Nitrobi­phenyls from 1‐Chloro‐2‐nitrobenz­enes and Phenylboronic Acids
Authors: Elumalai Vijayaragavan , Sandtorv Alexander H. , Bjørsvik Hans‐René
Published: February 2016

A simple and efficient method for Suzuki cross‐coupling of highly substituted and congested 1‐chloro‐2‐nitrobenzene with phenylboronic acid was developed, investigated, and optimized. The reaction conditions comprises a mixture of MeOH and water (4:1) as the reaction medium, readily available and cheap Pd(PPh3)4 as catalyst, sodium carbonate as base, and microwave heating, which affords a fast reaction rate with good outcomes. The procedure was proven to have high functional group tolerance with phenylboronic acid and for 1‐chloro‐2‐nitrobenzene and thus is a general method for the synthesis of 2‐nitrobiphenyl. The target scaffold, 2‐nitrobiphenyls, was produced in excellent yields with excellent selectivities in all cases.
Measurement and evaluation of the microphysics and boundary‐layer schemes in hot and humid zones in WRF model
Authors: Deng Qinli , Zhou Zeng
Published: February 2016

The problem of the urban heat island is becoming increasingly serious in China, especially in the cities with hot and humid climate. As a simulation tool, the weather research and forecasting (WRF) model can reflect the situation of the urban heat island. In this article, air temperature and relative humidity above the building canopy layer of Wuhan, China, were measured to choose appropriate microphysics and boundary‐layer schemes for the WRF model. Through comparison of measurements and simulation results, the case using the WSM 6 microphysics and Yonsei University boundary‐layer schemes showed the best agreement with the measured data. The applicability of the appropriate model was verified against near‐surface air temperature, relative humidity, and wind velocity observations from two meteorological stations. The magnitude of simulated air temperature was lower than observed, whereas the magnitudes of simulated relative humidity and wind velocity were higher. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1125–1131, 2016
Solvent‐induced surface morphology of polymer honeycomb thin films for power generating solar windows
Authors: Pai Ranjith Krishna , Hemavathi B. , Ahipa T.N. , Anoop K.M.
Published: February 2016

Here, the role of two different solvents viz. chloroform (CHCl3) and chlorobenzene (CB) for the formation and dissolution of honeycomb‐structured conductive polymer poly[2,5‐bis [3‐N,N‐diethylamino)−1‐oxapropyl]‐1,4‐phenylenevinylene] (P1) thin films was demonstrated. Surface morphology of the films was investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and it was confirmed that CB was a suitable solvent to obtain a better honeycomb structure over the CHCl3. Also, the film dissolution studies were carried out by immersing the honeycomb structured polymer films in their respective solvents for the specified interval of time, which show that the rate of film dissolution was prominent in CB than CHCl3. Based on the solvent selection, honeycomb structured blend as well as heterojunction (HJ) films were prepared from P1 and EG‐C60 (1:1 wt/wt). Here, morphological studies clearly confirmed that the EG‐C60 molecules were uniformly present only at the nodes and frames of the honeycomb structured blend film (which avoids the formation of exciton pair recombination of polymer), whereas in case of heterojunction film EG‐C60 molecules were unevenly distributed, this discovery could find use in fully exploiting the potential of various material systems, and open up new opportunities to improve the efficiency of OSCs. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 35: 1207–1214, 2016
Multistatic cloud radar systems: joint sensing and communication design
Authors: Jeong Seongah , Khalili Shahrouz , Simeone Osvaldo , Haimovich Alexander , Kang Joonhyuk
Published: February 2016

In a multistatic cloud radar system, receive sensors measure signals sent by a transmit element and reflected from a target and possibly clutter, in the presence of interference and noise. The receive sensors communicate over non‐ideal backhaul links with a fusion center, or cloud processor, where the presence or absence of the target is determined. The backhaul architecture can be characterized either by an orthogonal‐access channel or by a non‐orthogonal multiple‐access channel. Two backhaul transmission strategies are considered, namely, compress‐and‐forward (CF), which is well suited for the orthogonal‐access backhaul, and amplify‐and‐forward (AF), which leverages the superposition property of the non‐orthogonal multiple‐access channel. In this paper, the joint optimization of the sensing and backhaul communication functions of the cloud radar system is studied. Specifically, the transmitted waveform is jointly optimized with backhaul quantization in the case of CF backhaul transmission and with the amplifying gains of the sensors for the AF backhaul strategy. In both cases, the information‐theoretic criterion of the Bhattacharyya distance is adopted as a metric for the detection performance. Algorithmic solutions based on successive convex approximation are developed under different assumptions on the available channel state information. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed schemes outperform conventional solutions that perform separate optimizations of the waveform and backhaul operation, as well as the standard distributed detection approach. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abnormal salience signaling in schizophrenia: The role of integrative beta oscillations
Authors: Liddle Elizabeth B. , Price Darren , Palaniyappan Lena , Brookes Matthew J. , Robson Siân E. , Hall Emma L. , Morris Peter G. , Liddle Peter F.
Published: February 2016

Aberrant salience attribution and cerebral dysconnectivity both have strong evidential support as core dysfunctions in schizophrenia. Aberrant salience arising from an excess of dopamine activity has been implicated in delusions and hallucinations, exaggerating the significance of everyday occurrences and thus leading to perceptual distortions and delusional causal inferences. Meanwhile, abnormalities in key nodes of a salience brain network have been implicated in other characteristic symptoms, including the disorganization and impoverishment of mental activity. A substantial body of literature reports disruption to brain network connectivity in schizophrenia. Electrical oscillations likely play a key role in the coordination of brain activity at spatially remote sites, and evidence implicates beta band oscillations in long‐range integrative processes. We used magnetoencephalography and a task designed to disambiguate responses to relevant from irrelevant stimuli to investigate beta oscillations in nodes of a network implicated in salience detection and previously shown to be structurally and functionally abnormal in schizophrenia. Healthy participants, as expected, produced an enhanced beta synchronization to behaviorally relevant, as compared to irrelevant, stimuli, while patients with schizophrenia showed the reverse pattern: a greater beta synchronization in response to irrelevant than to relevant stimuli. These findings not only support both the aberrant salience and disconnectivity hypotheses, but indicate a common mechanism that allows us to integrate them into a single framework for understanding schizophrenia in terms of disrupted recruitment of contextually appropriate brain networks. Hum Brain Mapp 37:1361‐1374, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of carbon ion radiotherapy for locally advanced adenoid cystic carcinoma of the tongue base
Authors: Koto Masashi , Hasegawa Azusa , Takagi Ryo , Ikawa Hiroaki , Naganawa Kensuke , Mizoe Jun‐etsu , Jingu Keiichi , Tsujii Hirohiko , Tsuji Hiroshi , Kamada Tadashi , Okamoto Yoshitaka ,   Organizing Committee for the Working Group for Head and Neck Cancer
Published: February 2016

Background

Most cases of adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the tongue base are radioresistant, and are diagnosed in the advanced stage. Therefore, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of carbon ion radiotherapy (C‐ion RT) for locally advanced ACC of the tongue base.

Methods

Eighteen patients with ACC of the tongue base were treated with C‐ion RT between May 2002 and April 2014. Seventeen patients had T4a disease and 1 patient had T2 disease before C‐ion RT.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 57 months (range, 10–132 months). The 5‐year local control rate was 92%. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) rates were 72% and 44%, respectively. Regarding late reactions, 2 patients developed grade 3 mandible osteoradionecrosis, and 1 had grade 3 hemorrhage of the tongue base.

Conclusion

C‐ion RT was effective with acceptable toxicities for locally advanced ACC of the tongue base. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2122–E2126, 2016
Modified endoscopic transnasal‐transmaxillary‐transpterygoid approach to parapharyngeal space tumor resection
Authors: Wasano Koichiro , Yamamoto Sayuri , Tomisato Shuta , Kawasaki Taiji , Ogawa Kaoru
Published: February 2016

Background

Conventional approaches for removing parapharyngeal space tumors require a cervical skin incision and resection of soft tissues between the skin and parapharyngeal space. The surgical visual field for this conventional approach is limited.

Methods

To decrease invasiveness during removal of benign parapharyngeal space tumors and to enhance the visual field, we devised a new approach called the modified endoscopic transnasal‐transmaxillary‐transpterygoid approach (MENMAP). The “surgical corridor” to the parapharyngeal space consists of the maxillary sinus, submucous tunnel under the lateral nasal wall, and the space created by removing the pterygoid process.

Results

We successfully performed en bloc removal of a parapharyngeal space tumor using the MENMAP approach. The only surgical complication was hypoesthesia of the right hard palate and maxillary gingiva, which gradually improved.

Conclusion

The MENMAP approach is a viable alternative for removing parapharyngeal space tumors, as it is safe, feasible, and less invasive. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 933–938, 2016
How we think they see us? Valence and difficulty of retrieval as moderators of the effect of meta‐stereotype activation on intergroup orientations
Authors: Vázquez Alexandra , Yzerbyt Vincent , Dovidio John F. , Gómez Ángel
Published: February 2016

Previous research indicates that meta‐stereotypes are predominantly negative. However, the valence of the meta‐stereotypes may not be the only factor accounting for the detrimental effects associated with their activation. In addition to valence, we propose that the subjective difficulty of retrieving the meta‐stereotype might critically determine whether its activation deteriorates intergroup orientations. An experimental study showed that the effect of the meta‐stereotype activation on the desire to interact with outgroup members was moderated by the interaction between the valence of the meta‐stereotype and its difficulty of retrieval. In particular, the activation of a positive meta‐stereotype deteriorated intergroup orientations when the difficulty of retrieval was high as compared with a condition in which the difficulty of retrieval was low. In sharp contrast, the activation of a negative meta‐stereotype worsened intergroup orientations when the difficulty of retrieval was low as compared with a condition in which the difficulty of retrieval was high.
Papain immobilized polyurethane as an ureteral stent material
Authors: Maria Manohar Cynthya , Doble Mukesh
Published: February 2016

Long term use of polyurethane‐based ureteral stent is hampered by the development of infection due to the formation of bacterial biofilm and salt deposition. Here papain, is covalently immobilized to polyurethane using glutarldehyde and is investigated as a possible anti‐infective ureteral stent material. Fourier transform infrared spectrum confirmed its immobilization. Immobilized enzyme retained 85% of the activity of the free enzyme and about 12% loss of enzyme was observed from the polymer surface in one month. The modified polyurethane showed 8 log reduction in Staphylococcus aureus and 7 log reduction in Escherichia coli live colonies and 3‐4 times decrease in the protein and carbohydrate in the biofilms than bare polymer. The amount of calcium and magnesium salts deposited on the polymer surface reduced by 40% after enzyme immobilization. 80% of L6 myoblast cells were viable on this material which indicated that it was noncytotoxic. A linear regression equation with hydrophilicity of the polymer surface and the cell surface hydrophobicity as the two independent variables was able to predict the number of live cells attached on the modified PU. This study indicated the possibility of using such an approach to overcome the problems of ureteral stent associated biofilm and salt encrustation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 723–731, 2016.
Tissue Engineered Airways: A Prospects Article
Authors: Bogan Stephanie L. , Teoh Gui Zhen , Birchall Martin A.
Published: February 2016

An ideal tracheal scaffold must withstand luminal collapse yet be flexible, have a sufficient degree of porosity to permit vascular and cellular ingrowth, but also be airtight and must facilitate growth of functional airway epithelium to avoid infection and aid in mucocilliary clearance. Finally, the scaffold must also be biocompatible to avoid implant rejection. Over the last 40 years, efforts to design and manufacture the airway have been undertaken worldwide but success has been limited and far apart. As a result, tracheal resection with primary repair remains the Gold Standard of care for patients presenting with airway disorders and malignancies. However, the maximum resectable length of the trachea is restricted to 30% of the total length in children or 50% in adults. Attempts to provide autologous grafts for human application have also been disappointing for a host of different reasons, including lack of implant integration, insufficient donor organs, and poor mechanical strength resulting in an unmet clinical need. The two main approaches researchers have taken to address this issue have been the development of synthetic scaffolds and the use of decellularized organs. To date, a number of different decellularization techniques and a variety of materials, including polyglycolic acid (PGA) and nanocomposite polymers have been explored. The findings thus far have shown great promise, however, there remain a significant number of caveats accompanying each approach. That being said, the possibilities presented by these two approaches could be combined to produce a highly successful, clinically viable hybrid scaffold. This article aims to highlight advances in airway tissue engineering and provide an overview of areas to explore and utilize in accomplishing the aim of developing an ideal tracheal prosthesis. J. Cell. Biochem. 117: 1497–1505, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Pharmacokinetics of Potassium in Humans Is Unusual
Authors: Hinderling Peter H.
Published: February 2016

Potassium is critical for maintaining cellular tonicity, propagation of nerve impulses, contraction of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscles, and normal renal function. The focus of this review is on the pharmacokinetics of potassium, K+, after administration of liquid and solid formulations of potassium chloride, KCl, to healthy subjects. Potassium can be considered an endogenous and exogenous compound. The amounts of endogenous K+ are kept constant by balancing intake and loss of exogenous K+. Food and ingestion of KCl‐containing medicines are sources for exogenous K+. In the pharmacokinetic context exogenous K+ from KCl‐containing medicines, K+exo,dose, is of primary interest. The distinction between the different K+ entities is critical for obtaining unbiased estimates of the kinetic parameters for K+exo,dose. A literature search using prespecified acceptance criteria was performed. Publications were selected that reported plasma and urine data of K+exo,dose directly or provided information allowing their determination. Additional criteria applied included that the studies used a randomized design and controlled for the important covariates. Most of the selected publications reported urinary excretion data. Only 2 publications also reported plasma concentrations. The excursions of the plasma concentrations of K+exo,dose were considered too small to be of use by most investigators. The aggregate results indicate that urinary recovery data have the potential for providing reliable estimates for bioavailability and bioequivalence of K+exo,dose with KCl‐containing formulations. Absorption efficiency, peak rates, and corresponding times of K+exo,dose with liquid formulations are fairly consistent among studies. The mean absorption efficiency of K+exo,dose with solid and liquid formulations of KCl ranges between 70% and 90%. The absorption rate of liquid formulations is rapid, whereas the solid formulations show extended release characteristics. The time‐averaged renal clearance of K+exo,dose is about 200 mL/min during daytime and significantly smaller around midnight. Circadian rhythm and delayed homeostatic control of potassium make the pharmacokinetics of K+exo,dose time dependent. The impact of these endogenous controls makes the pharmacokinetics of K+exo,dose unusual.
Comparative effects of two different doses of low‐level laser therapy on wound healing third‐degree burns in rats
Authors: Brassolatti Patricia , Bossini Paulo Sérgio , Oliveira Maria Carolina Derêncio , Kido Hueliton Wilian , Tim Carla Roberta , Almeida‐Lopes Luciana , Retto Da Silva De Avó Lucimar , Araújo‐Moreira Fernando M. , Parizotto Nivaldo Antonio
Published: February 2016

Burns are injuries caused by direct or indirect contact to chemical, physical, or biological agents. Low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) is a promising treatment since it is low‐cost, non‐invasive, and induces cell proliferation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of LLLT (660 nm) at two different fluences (12.5 J/cm2 and 25 J/cm2) per point of application on third‐degree burns in rats. Thirty rats (Wistar) divided into GC, GL12.5, and GL25 were used in the study, and submitted to burn injury through a soldering iron at 150°C, pressed on their back for 10 s. LLLT was applied immediately, and 2, 4, 6, and 8 days after wound induction. Histological analysis revealed a decreased inflammatory infiltrate in the group treated with 25 J/cm2, and intense inflammatory infiltrate in the control group and in the group treated with 12.5 J/cm2. The immunostaining of COX‐2 was more intense in the control groups and in the group treated with 12.5 J/cm2 than in the group treated with 25 J/cm2. Conversely, VEGF immunomarking was more expressive in the group treated with 25 J/cm2 than it was in the other two groups. Therefore, our findings suggest that the use of 25 J/cm2 and 1 J of energy was more effective in stimulating the cellular processes involved in tissue repair on third‐degree burns in rats by reducing the inflammatory phase, and stimulating angiogenesis, thus restoring the local microcirculation which is essential for cell migration. Microsc. Res. Tech. 79:313–320, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of a [18F]‐labeled ceritinib analogue for positron emission tomography of anaplastic lymphoma kinase, a receptor tyrosine kinase, in lung cancer
Authors: Perera Sandun , Piwnica‐Worms David , Alauddin Mian M.
Published: February 2016

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), an oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase, has emerged as a therapeutic target in solid and hematologic tumors. Although several ALK inhibitors have gained recent approval for therapy, non‐invasive indicators of target engagement or for use as predictive biomarkers in vivo are lacking. Therefore, we designed and synthesized a radiolabeled analogue of the ALK inhibitor ceritinib, [18F]fluoroethyl‐ceritinib ([18F]‐FEC), for use with positron emission tomography. We used two methods to synthesize [18F]‐FEC. First, [18F]fluoroethyl‐tosylate was prepared, coupled with ceritinib, and the product purified to yield [18F]‐FEC. Alternatively, a precursor compound was synthesized, directly fluorinated with 18F‐fluoride, and purified to yield [18F]‐FEC. The first method produced [18F]‐FEC with an average decay‐corrected yield of 24% (n = 4), specific activity of 1200 mCi/µmol, and >99% purity; synthesis time was 115 min from the end of bombardment. The second method produced [18F]‐FEC with an average yield of 7% (n = 4), specific activity of 1500 mCi/µmol, and >99% purity; synthesis time was 65 min from the end of bombardment. The synthesis of a novel 18F‐labeled analogue of ceritinib has been achieved in acceptable yields, at high purity, and with high specific activity. The compound is a potential positron emission tomography imaging agent for the detection of ALK‐overexpressing solid tumors such as lung cancer.
Assessment of renal function using intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion‐weighted imaging and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Bane Octavia , Wagner Mathilde , Zhang Jeff L. , Dyvorne Hadrien A. , Orton Matthew , Rusinek Henry , Taouli Bachir
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To assess the correlation between each of intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion‐weighted imaging (IVIM‐DWI) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) metrics in renal parenchyma with renal function, in a cohort of patients with chronic liver disease.

Materials and Methods

Thirty patients with liver disease underwent abdominal MRI at 1.5T, including a coronal respiratory‐triggered IVIM‐DWI sequence and a coronal 3D FLASH DCE‐MRI acquisition. Diffusion signals in the renal cortex and medulla were fitted to the IVIM model to estimate the diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), and perfusion fraction (PF). The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) was calculated using all b‐values. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR), cortical and medullary renal plasma flow (RPF), mean transit times (MTT) of vascular and tubular compartments and the whole kidney, were calculated from DCE‐MRI data by fitting to a three‐compartment model. The estimated GFR (eGFR) was calculated from serum creatinine measured 30 ± 27 days of MRI.

Results

ADC, PF, and RPF were significantly higher in renal cortex vs. medulla (P < 10−5). DCE‐MRI GFR significantly correlated with, but underestimated, eGFR (Spearman's r/P = 0.49/0.01). IVIM‐DWI parameters were not significantly correlated with eGFR. DCE‐MRI GFR correlated weakly with D (cortex, r/P = 0.3/0.03; medulla r/P = 0.27/0.05) and ADC (cortex r/P = 0.28/0.04; medulla r/P = 0.34/0.01). Weak correlations were observed for pooled cortical and medullar RPF with PF (r/P = 0.32/10−3) and with ADC (r/P = 0.29/0.0025). Significant negative correlations were observed for vascular MTT with cortical D* (r/P = −0.38/0.004) and D*×PF (r/P = −0.34/0.01).

Conclusion

The weak correlations between renal IVIM and DCE‐MRI perfusion parameters imply that these functional measures could be complementary. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:317–326.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI for oncology drug development
Authors: Sung Yu Sub , Park Bumwoo , Choi Yoonseok , Lim Hyeong‐Seok , Woo Dong‐Cheol , Kim Kyung Won , Kim Jeong Kon
Published: February 2016

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) is a promising tool for evaluating tumor vascularity, as it can provide vasculature‐derived, functional, and quantitative parameters. To implement DCE‐MRI parameters as biomarkers for monitoring the effect of antiangiogenic or vascular‐disrupting treatment, two crucial elements of surrogate endpoint, ie, validation and qualification, should be satisfied. Although early studies have shown the accuracy and reliability of DCE‐MRI parameters for evaluating treatment‐driven vascular alterations, there have been an increasing number of studies demonstrating the limitations of DCE‐MRI parameters as surrogate endpoints. Therefore, in order to improve the application of DCE‐MRI parameters in drug development, it is necessary to establish a standardized evaluation method and to determine the correct therapeutics‐oriented meaning of individual DCE‐MRI parameter. In this regard, this article describes the biophysical background and data acquisition/analysis techniques of DCE‐MRI while focusing on the validation and qualification issues. Specifically, the causes of disagreement and confusion encountered in the preclinical and clinical trials using DCE‐MRI are presented in detail. Finally, considering these limitations, we present potential strategies to optimize implementation of DCE‐MRI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:251–264.
Does altered aortic flow in marfan syndrome relate to aortic root dilatation?
Authors: Wang Hung‐Hsuan , Chiu Hsin‐Hui , Tseng Wen‐Yih Isaac , Peng Hsu‐Hsia
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To examine possible hemodynamic alterations in adolescent to adult Marfan syndrome (MFS) patients with aortic root dilatation.

Materials and Methods

Four‐dimensional flow MRI was performed in 20 MFS patients and 12 age‐matched normal subjects with a 3T system. The cross‐sectional areas of 10 planes along the aorta were segmented for calculating the axial and circumferential wall shear stress (WSSaxial, WSScirc), oscillatory shear index (OSIaxial, OSIcirc), and the nonroundness (NR), presenting the asymmetry of segmental WSS. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to present the correlations between the quantified indices and the body surface area (BSA), aortic root diameter (ARD), and Z score of the ARD. P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.

Results

Patients exhibited lower WSSaxial in the aortic root and the WSScirc in the arch (P < 0.05–0.001). MFS patients exhibited higher OSIaxial and OSIcirc in the sinotubular junction and arch, but lower OSIcirc in the descending aorta (all P < 0.05). The NR values were lower in patients (P < 0.05). The WSSaxial or WSScirc exhibited moderate to strong correlations with BSA, ARD, or Z score (R2 = 0.50–0.72) in MFS patients.

Conclusion

The significant differences in the quantified indices, which were associated with BSA, ARD, or Z score, in MFS were opposite to previous reports for younger MFS patients, indicating that altered flows in MFS patients may depend on the disease progress. The possible time dependency of hemodynamic alterations in MFS patients strongly suggests that longitudinal follow‐up of 4D Flow is needed to comprehend disease progress. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:500–508.
Rapid T2 mapping of mouse heart using the carr–purcell–meiboom–gill sequence and compressed sensing reconstruction
Authors: Chen Yong , Li Wen , Jiang Kai , Wang Charlie Y. , Yu Xin
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To develop and prove preliminary validation of a fast in vivo T2 mapping technique for mouse heart.

Materials and Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) experiments were performed on a 7T animal scanner. The standard Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill (CPMG) sequence was modified to minimize the effect of stimulated echoes for accurate T2 quantification. The acquisition was further accelerated with the compressed sensing approach. The accuracy of the proposed method was first validated with both phantom experiments and numerical simulations. In vivo T2 measurement was performed on seven mice in a manganese‐enhanced MRI study.

Results

In phantom studies, T2 values obtained with the modified CPMG sequence are in good agreement with the standard spin‐echo method (P > 0.05). Numerical simulations further demonstrated that with the application of the compressed sensing approach, fast T2 quantification with a spatial resolution of 2.3 mm can be achieved at a high temporal resolution of 1 minute per slice. With the proposed technique, an average T2 value of 25 msec was observed for mouse heart at 7T and this number decreased significantly after manganese infusion (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

A rapid T2 mapping technique was developed and assessed, which allows accurate T2 quantification of mouse heart at a temporal resolution of 1 minute per slice. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;44:375–382.
New Azores archipelago daily precipitation dataset and its links with large‐scale modes of climate variability
Authors: Hernández Armand , Kutiel Haim , Trigo Ricardo M. , Valente Maria A. , Sigró Javier , Cropper Thomas , Santo Fátima Espírito
Published: February 2016

Within the scope of the two major international projects of long‐term reanalysis for the 20th century coordinated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts, the Instituto Dom Luiz from the University of Lisbon has digitized a large number of long‐term daily and monthly climate records from stations in Portugal and former Portuguese colonies. We have recently finished the digitization of precipitation values from Ponta Delgada (capital of the Azores Archipelago), obtaining an almost complete daily precipitation series, with the exception of some years (1864–1872; 1878–1879; 1888–1905; 1931; 1936; and 1938) for which only monthly values are available. At daily resolution, we have used a comprehensive assessment on different characteristics of rain spells (consecutive days with rainfall accumulation). The distribution of precipitation presents an evident seasonal pattern and reveals large inter‐annual and intra‐annual variability, increasing considerably in the last 3 decades. The frequency of dry years decreases almost by half between the first and the second part of the record, whereas wet years increase up to three times. This is mainly due to more intense events that are reflected by higher rain‐spell yields (amount of precipitation) and rain‐spell intensity (amount of precipitation per day) values. Most of the extreme precipitation events occurred during the last 2 decades, and they generally correspond to dates with cyclonic conditions over the North Atlantic. We have also looked into the influence of large‐scale modes of climate variability on the precipitation regime of the Azores Archipelago. As expected, theNorth Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) has a major impact on the precipitation regime of Ponta Delgada both in winter and summer. However, our results show a non‐stationary NAO influence and the impact of other large‐scale modes (including the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and El Niño‐Southern Oscillation) increases when this influence becomes weaker.
The impact of observational sampling on time series of global 0–700 m ocean average temperature: a case study
Authors: Good Simon A.
Published: February 2016

The limited historical observational sampling of the ocean gives rise to uncertainty in time series of global ocean temperature anomalies calculated from those observations. Without knowledge of the true global state of the oceans, it is difficult to characterize the errors caused by these sampling issues. One way to quantify them is to use climate model data. Pseudo observational time series can be constructed from the model data using knowledge of where observations occurred. Comparison of these with time series constructed from the full model fields yields information about how observational sampling impacts time series of the temperature change in the modelled world. This can then be related back to the time series generated from the real observations. In this study, climate model data were used to investigate sampling errors in 0–700 m global average ocean temperature anomaly time series calculated using a straightforward gridding approach. The sampling had two impacts. First, sampling causes issues with constructing a climatology that is representative of the long‐term average state of the ocean. Climatology errors were shown to have the potential to cause systematically changing errors in anomaly time series. Second, some regions of the ocean were poorly observed prior to improvements brought about by the Argo project. This was found to cause spurious variability, both year to year and over multi‐year time scales. The latter had similar magnitude to the actual multi‐year variability seen in the model data but was smaller than the model's long‐term temperature change. The features of these errors depend on the ocean state and therefore varied between climate model runs. More sophisticated methods used to calculate ocean temperature time series are expected to be less impacted by sampling. Nevertheless, sampling errors will still occur and therefore this type of study is recommended even for those techniques.
Two‐sided impacts of warm pool SSTs on Australian precipitation changes
Authors: Fan Lei , Shin Sang‐Ik , Liu Zhengyu , Liu Qinyu
Published: February 2016

Optimal tropical ocean regions for forcing precipitation changes over Australia are identified from maps of sensitivity of Australian precipitation to tropical sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies. These sensitivity maps are derived by a series of atmospheric general circulation model simulations with prescription of an array of SST anomaly patches over the tropics. The results show that the Australian precipitation changes are most sensitive to SST anomalies over the Indo‐Pacific Warm Pool. There are competing opposing sensitivities such that warming over the Indian side of the Warm Pool increases precipitation, whereas that over the Pacific side decreases it. These sensitivity maps are validated by use in reconstruction of historical series of Australian precipitation with realistic interannual variability. The present results imply that monitoring and predicting the signs and magnitudes of SST anomalies over the critical Indo‐Pacific Warm Pool may improve the prediction skills of Australian precipitation changes.
Interannual variability of heat waves in South Korea and their connection with large‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns
Authors: Lee Woo‐Seop , Lee Myong‐In
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the interannual variation of heat wave frequency (HWF) in South Korea during the past 42 years (1973–2014) and examines its connection with large‐scale atmospheric circulation changes. Korean heat waves tend to develop most frequently in late summer during July and August. The leading Empirical Orthogonal Function accounting for 50% of the total variance shows a mono‐signed pattern over South Korea, suggesting that the dominant mechanisms responsible for the heat wave are linked in a spatial scale much larger than the nation. It also exhibits a regional variation with more occurrences in the southeastern inland area. The regression of the leading principal component (PC) time series of HWF with large‐scale atmospheric circulation identifies a north–south dipole pattern between the South China Sea and Northeast Asia. When this large‐scale circulation mode facilitates deep convection in South China Sea, it tends to weaken moisture transport from the South China Sea to Northeast Asia. Enhanced deep convection in the South China Sea triggers a source of Rossby wave train along southerly wind that generates positive geopotential height anomalies around Korea. The anomalous high pressure pattern is accompanied by large‐scale subsidence in Korea, thereby providing a favourable condition for extreme hot and dry days in Korea. This study highlights that there is a decadal change of the relationship between Korean heat waves and large‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns. The tropical forcing tends to be weakened in the recent decade, with more influences from the Arctic variability from the mid‐1990s.
Margins for cervical and vulvar cancer
Authors: Khanna Namita , Rauh Lisa A. , Lachiewicz Mark P. , Horowitz Ira R.
Published: February 2016

Surgery is the primary treatment for vulvar cancer as well as early‐stage carcinoma of the cervix. This article reviews the significance of margin status after surgery on overall survival, need for further surgical intervention, and role for possible adjuvant therapy. It summarizes the abundant literature on margin status in vulvar cancer and highlights the need for further investigation on the prognostic significance of margins in cervical cancer. In addition, it reviews other important operative considerations. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;113:304–309. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.