bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problematic eating behaviors and attitudes predict long‐term incident metabolic syndrome and diabetes: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study
Authors: Yoon Cynthia , Jacobs David R. , Duprez Daniel A. , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne , Steffen Lyn M. , Mason Susan M.
Published: January 2019

Background

Problematic relationship to eating and food (PREF) captures a broad range of unhealthy eating behaviors. We previously reported that higher BMI is associated with PREF and graded by the number of PREF endorsed. In this study, we prospectively examined the association between PREF and metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

Method

Eight PREF behaviors were assessed and summed to form the PREF score in 3800 black and white adults (age 27–41 years) in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study. Diagnoses of incident metabolic syndrome and diabetes were made through 15 years of follow‐up. Logistic regression estimated the association with metabolic syndrome. Proportional hazards regression estimated the association with diabetes.

Results

The odds ratio of metabolic syndrome was 1.25 per PREF point through 5 years of follow‐up (95% CI: 1.17–1.34) and 1.17 per point from 5 to 10 years of follow‐up (95% CI: 1.08–1.27). Hazard of diabetes was 1.20 per PREF point through 15 years of follow‐up (95% CI: 1.12–1.28). Both associations attenuated after adjustment for BMI.

Discussion

Among participants with PREF, higher scores associate with metabolic syndrome and diabetes, with partial attenuation after adjustment for BMI. Early identification of PREF in middle‐aged adults may reduce the burden of metabolic health outcomes.
Synthesis and Conformational Analysis of Aminopyrazolonyl Amino Acid (APA)/Peptides
Authors: Bollu Amarnath , Sharma Nagendra K.
Published: January 2019

Pyrazole, pyrazolone, and aminopyrazolone derived molecules are bioactive molecules and considered as potential therapeutic drug candidates because of their unique structural properties. These molecules have abilities to interact with several bio‐macromolecules via non‐covalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding and π–π interactions. In structural organization of dipeptides, pyrazole containing aromatic amino acid/dipeptides have been explored and considered as potential amino acid residue. In repertoire of unnatural aromatic amino acids, this report describes the synthesis of 4‐aminopyrazolonyl containing amino acids and their crystal structures. The incorporation of 4‐aminopyrazolonyl at N‐terminal of native amino acid/dipeptides influences the conformational changes of respective peptide which induces the formation of distinctive supramolecular self‐assembly structures such as β‐sheet and α‐helices in their solid‐state crystal. The structural conformation of those peptides, here, are also demonstrated in solution phase by 1H‐NMR (1D/2D) and [D6]DMSO titration methods which support the formation of inter‐/intramolecular hydrogen bonding in solution. Hence, these unnatural amino acid analogues can tune the secondary structure of natural amino acid/peptides by introducing at N‐terminal via amide bond.
Identity configurations and well‐being during normative cultural conflict: The roles of multiculturals’ conflict management strategies and academic stage
Authors: Arias‐Valenzuela Melisa , Amiot Catherine E. , Ryder Andrew G.
Published: January 2019

Multiculturals encounter normative cultural conflicts (intrapersonal conflicts between their cultures’ norms). Yet, no research has examined how these conflicts are managed, nor their antecedents and repercussions. This article examined how these conflicts are managed using two sets of conflict management strategies (active and agreeable) and tested whether they mediate the associations between identity configurations and well‐being. Also, as the benefits of having integrated selves typically increase in later life stages, this article examined whether the associations between identity configurations and well‐being differ between earlier (pre‐university) and later academic stages (university). In Study 1 (N = 235), active strategies mediated the link between identity integration and well‐being, whereas agreeable strategies mediated the link between compartmentalization and ill‐being. In Study 2 (N = 241), these results were replicated. Study 2 further showed that the association between identity integration and well‐being was stronger among university than pre‐university students. Implications of these results are discussed.
Computational grid, subgrid, and pixels
Authors: Casulli Vincenzo
Published: January 2019

Free‐surface flows in rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas are strongly dominated by the geometrical details of the study area. Nowadays, accurate bathymetric data are easily available on raster‐based digital elevation models with an impressive spatial resolution. These data are often accessible as large two‐dimensional arrays containing several millions of pixel values. Recent numerical methods are very efficient and rather accurate but far from being able to solve the governing differential equations on a computational grid with such a fine spatial resolution. In the present investigation, the unaltered pixel values from a digital elevation model are clustered to form subgrids of a coarser computational grid. Artificial cross‐flow between disconnected areas is inhibited by introducing cell clones and edge clones. Each clone consists of directly connected pixels. It is shown how the resulting computational grid is able to resolve geometrical details of complex study areas to pixel resolution and for any grid size. As an example, the performance of the proposed algorithm is tested to simulate a typical tidal flow in the San Francisco Bay and the Sacramento‐San Joaquin Delta area by using an extreme subgrid resolution given by a digital elevation model containing 196 000 000 pixels with 10 m pixel size.
Regionally selective knockdown of astroglial glutamate transporters in infralimbic cortex induces a depressive phenotype in mice
Authors: Fullana M. Neus , Ruiz‐Bronchal Esther , Ferrés‐Coy Albert , Juárez‐Escoto Elena , Artigas Francesc , Bortolozzi Analia
Published: January 2019

Elevation of energy metabolism and disturbance of astrocyte number/function in the ventral anterior cingulate cortex (vACC) contributes to the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). Functional hyperactivity of vACC may result from reduced astrocytic glutamate uptake and increased neuronal excitation. Here we tested this hypothesis by knocking‐down astrocytic glutamate transporter GLAST/GLT‐1 expression in mouse infralimbic (IL, rodent equivalent of vACC) or prelimbic (PrL) cortices using RNAi strategies. Unilateral siRNA (small interfering RNA) microinfusion targeting GLAST or GLT‐1 in mouse IL induced a moderate (20–30%) and long‐lasting (7 days) decrease in their expression. Intra‐IL GLAST‐/GLT‐1 siRNA microinfusion reduced the number of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐positive and glutamine synthetase (GS)‐positive astrocytes and evoked a depressive‐like phenotype reversed by citalopram and ketamine. Intra‐IL GLAST or GLT‐1 knockdown markedly reduced serotonin (5‐HT) release in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DR) and induced an overall reduction of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres. Egr‐1 (early growth response protein‐1) labeling suggests that both siRNAs enhance the GABAergic tone onto DR 5‐HT neurons, leading to an overall decrease of 5‐HT function, likely related to the widespread reduction on BDNF expression. Conversely, similar reductions of GLAST and GLT‐1 expression in PrL did not induce a depressive‐like phenotype. These results suggest that a focal glial change in IL translates into global change of brain activity by virtue of the descending projections from IL to DR and the subsequent attenuation of serotonergic function in forebrain, an effect perhaps related to the varied symptomatology of MDD.
Value of a smartphone‐compatible thermal imaging camera in the detection of peroneal artery perforators: Comparative study with computed tomography angiography
Authors: Chen Rui , Huang Zhi‐Quan , Chen Wei‐Liang , Ou Zhan‐Peng , Li Shi‐Hao , Wang Jian‐Guang
Published: January 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the value of a smartphone‐compatible thermal imaging camera in the mapping of the peroneal artery perforators.

Methods

Twelve consecutive patients scheduled for fibular flap reconstruction were enrolled. The lower limbs were first studied using smartphone‐based dynamic infrared thermography (DIRT). During the rewarming, the hotspots were marked, small rubber markers were taped to the registered sites, and then the patients were sent for a CT scan. The diagnostic performance of smartphone‐based DIRT was evaluated by comparing the DIRT findings with CT angiography and intraoperative findings.

Results

DIRT detected 42 of the 57 dominant perforators in 24 limbs and resulted in a sensitivity of 73.7% and a positive predictive value of 65.6%.

Conclusions

The sensitivity and positive predictive value of the smartphone‐based DIRT are low. Currently, it should be used as an adjunctive tool together with the established imaging techniques.
Prognostic factors in patients with soft palate squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Schernberg Antoine , Canova Charles , Blanchard Pierre , Gorphe Philippe , Breuskin Ingrid , Mirghani Haitham , Moya‐Plana Antoine , Janot François , Bidault Francois , Chargari Cyrus , Bellefqih Sara , Ruffier Amandine , Even Caroline , Nguyen France , Temam Stéphane , Tao Yungan
Published: January 2019

Background

To define the prognostic factors associated with outcome in patients with soft palate squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

Previously untreated patients with soft palate and uvula SCC treated in our institution between 1997 and 2012 were collected. The prognostic value of clinical, hematological, and treatment characteristics was examined.

Results

We identified 156 patients, median age 58 years, with 71% drinkers, 91% smokers; 19% had synchronous cancer. Front‐line treatment was chemoradiotherapy in 58 (37%), radiotherapy alone in 60 (39%), surgery in 17 (11%), and induction chemotherapy in 21 patients (14%). The 5‐year actuarial overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were 41% and 37%, respectively. In univariate analysis, T3‐T4 vs T1‐T2 stage, N2‐N3 vs N0‐N1 stage, and neutrophil count >7 g/L were associated with worse OS and PFS (P < .05).

Conclusion

In patients with soft palate SCC, inflammation biomarkers were associated with OS.
Visceral adipose tissue volume and CT‐attenuation as prognostic factors in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Lee Jeong Won , Ban Myung Jin , Park Jae Hong , Lee Sang Mi
Published: January 2019

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of the characteristics of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) to the disease progression‐free survival and distant failure‐free survival of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

We enrolled 152 HNSCC patients who underwent staging 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/CT (PET/CT). Maximum FDG uptake (standardized uptake value [SUV]) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) of the primary tumor and volume, CT‐attenuation (Hounsfield units [HU]), and FDG uptake of SAT and VAT were measured. Survival analysis using Cox proportional hazard modeling was performed to assess the relationship between the adipose tissue parameters of PET/CT and survival.

Results

Patients with low VAT volume and high VAT HU had significantly worse progression‐free survival and distant failure‐free survival than those with high VAT volume and low VAT HU. On multivariate analysis, the volume and HU of VAT were significantly correlated with disease progression‐free survival and distant failure‐free survival after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, TNM stage, serum C‐reactive protein, maximum SUV, and TLG.

Conclusion

The volume and CT‐attenuation of VAT were significantly correlated with disease progression‐free survival and distant failure‐free survival in patients with HNSCC.
Dynamic evaluation of blood flow microcirculation by combined use of the laser Doppler flowmetry and high‐speed videocapillaroscopy methods
Authors: Dremin Viktor , Kozlov Igor , Volkov Mikhail , Margaryants Nikita , Potemkin Andrey , Zherebtsov Evgeny , Dunaev Andrey , Gurov Igor
Published: January 2019

The dynamic light scattering methods are widely used in biomedical diagnostics involving evaluation of blood flow. However, there exist some difficulties in quantitative interpretation of backscattered light signals from the viewpoint of diagnostic information. This study considers the application of the high‐speed videocapillaroscopy (VCS) method that provides the direct measurement of the red blood cells (RBCs) velocity into a capillary. The VCS signal presents true oscillation nature of backscattered light caused by moving RBCs. Thus, the VCS signal can be assigned as a reference one with respect to more complicated signals like in laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). An essential correlation between blood flow velocity oscillations in a separate human capillary and the integral perfusion estimate obtained by the LDF method has been found. The observation of blood flow by the VCS method during upper arm occlusion has shown emergence of the reverse blood flow effect in capillaries that corresponds to the biological zero signal in the LDF. The reverse blood flow effect has to be taken into account in interpretation of LDF signals.
Development and first in‐human use of a Raman spectroscopy guidance system integrated with a brain biopsy needle
Authors: Desroches Joannie , Lemoine Émile , Pinto Michael , Marple Eric , Urmey Kirk , Diaz Roberto , Guiot Marie‐Christine , Wilson Brian C. , Petrecca Kevin , Leblond Frédéric
Published: January 2019

Navigation‐guided brain biopsies are the standard of care for diagnosis of several brain pathologies. However, imprecise targeting and tissue heterogeneity often hinder obtaining high‐quality tissue samples, resulting in poor diagnostic yield. We report the development and first clinical testing of a navigation‐guided fiberoptic Raman probe that allows surgeons to interrogate brain tissue in situ at the tip of the biopsy needle prior to tissue removal. The 900 μm diameter probe can detect high spectral quality Raman signals in both the fingerprint and high wavenumber spectral regions with minimal disruption to the neurosurgical workflow. The probe was tested in three brain tumor patients, and the acquired spectra in both normal brain and tumor tissue demonstrated the expected spectral features, indicating the quality of the data. As a proof‐of‐concept, we also demonstrate the consistency of the acquired Raman signal with different systems and experimental settings. Additional clinical development is planned to further evaluate the performance of the system and develop a statistical model for real‐time tissue classification during the biopsy procedure.
Two‐dimensional graphene oxide‐reinforced porous biodegradable polymeric nanocomposites for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Farshid Behzad , Lalwani Gaurav , Mohammadi Meisam Shir , Sankaran Jeyantt Srinivas , Patel Sunny , Judex Stefan , Simonsen John , Sitharaman Balaji
Published: January 2019

This study investigates the mechanical properties and in vitro cytotoxicity of two‐dimensional (2D) graphene oxide nanoribbons and nanoplatelets (GONRs and GONPs) reinforced porous polymeric nanocomposites. Highly porous poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) nanocomposites were prepared by dispersing 0.2 wt % single‐ and multiwalled SONRs (SWGONRs and MWGONRs) and GONPs. The mechanical properties of scaffolds were characterized using compression testing and in vitro cytocompatibility was assessed using QuantiFlour assay for cellularity and PrestoBlue assay for cell viability. Immunofluorescence was used to assess collagen‐I expression and deposition in the extracellular matrix. Porous PPF scaffolds were used as a baseline control and porous single and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs and MWCNTs) reinforced nanocomposites were used as positive controls. Results show that incorporation of 2D graphene nanomaterials leads to an increase in the mechanical properties of porous PPF nanocomposites with following the trend: MWGONRs > GONPs > SWGONRs > MWCNTs > SWCNTs > PPF control. MWGONRs showed the best enhancement of compressive mechanical properties with increases of up to 26% in compressive modulus (i.e., Young's modulus), ~60% in yield strength, and ~24% in the ultimate compressive strength. Addition of 2D nanomaterials did not alter the cytocompatibility of porous PPF nanocomposites. Furthermore, PPF nanocomposites reinforced with SWGONRs, MWGONRs, and GONPs show an improvement in the adsorption of collagen‐I compared to PPF baseline control. The results of this study show that 2D graphene nanomaterial reinforced porous PPF nanocomposites possess superior mechanical properties, cytocompatibility, and increased protein adsorption. The favorable cytocompatibility results opens avenues for in vivo safety and efficacy studies for bone tissue engineering applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 107A: 1143–1153, 2019.
Comparison between poliglecaprone and chitosan absorbable sutures in laparorrhaphy and cecorrhaphy in rabbits
Authors: Ávila Filho Saulo Humberto , Dias Ferreira Kamilla , Vieira da Silva Rogério , Vieira de Souza Silva Estela , Fernandes Santos Catelan Beatriz , Brianezi Dignani de Moura Veridiana Maria , Franco da Silva Luiz Antônio
Published: January 2019

Despite improvements in the development of sutures and surgical techniques of laparorrhaphy and enterorrhaphy, complications resulting from the process of intestinal and muscular healing after simple enterorrhaphy or enteroanastomoses followed by laparorrhaphy are still frequent. The poliglecaprone 25 (PG) suture is commonly used in this type of surgical procedure due to the induction of little tissue reaction, rapid absorption by hydrolysis, and the absence of capillarity. The chitosan (CG) yarn, despite promising results in in vivo tests, is still rarely used. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of CG in the procedures of medium laparorrhaphy and cecorrhaphy in rabbits. A total of 42 rabbits were allocated in two groups (n = 21), one referring to raffia procedures using CG and another to postoperatively PG. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations occurred postoperatively on days 5, 15, and 25. The incidence of postoperative complications such as fibrin accumulation, granulomas, partial dehiscence of the muscular wound, and formation of adhesions was similar in the study groups. In the microscopic evaluation, abdominal muscle healing presented granulation tissue at higher intensity and lower fibrosis at 15 days postoperatively in the CG animals, as well as a greater intensity of polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells in the rabbits' cecorrhaphy area, also at 15 days when compared to PG animals. The conclusion is that the CG yarn comprises biomaterial useful to the laparorrhaphy and cecorrhaphy procedures in rabbits, representing a promising alternative for use in other species and anatomical locations. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 2102–2108, 2019.
The effect of esterase enzyme on aging dental composites
Authors: Oskoe Sepideh Karkouti , Drummond James L. , Rockne Karl J.
Published: January 2019

We measured the push‐out and diametral tensile strength of dental restorative composites following aging under environmental conditions relevant to the oral cavity; air (A), artificial saliva (AS), acidified (50 mM CH3COOH, pH = 4.7) artificial saliva (AS + HAc), and AS with esterase enzyme (AS + ENZ). Cylindrical test specimens (6.3 mm diameter by 5.1 mm long) were prepared by placing 0.3 g of nanofilled composite in an epoxy ring and cured. Twenty samples were aged in each environment for 163–186 days at 37°C. The push‐out strengths (mean ± standard error of the mean [SEM], in MPa) for specimens were: A‐2.4 ± 0.2, AS‐7.3 ± 0.5, AS + HAc‐7.2 ± 0.9, and AS + ENZ‐6.0 ± 0.6. Following the push‐out test, the diametral tensile strength and elasticity were immediately determined. The diametral tensile strengths (mean ± SEM, in MPa) for specimens were: A‐54.0 ± 1.6, AS‐31.4 ± 1.3, AS + HAc‐34.3 ± 1.2, and AS + ENZ‐22.5 ± 0.7. The push‐out strength was lowest for the A environment due to shrinkage of the composite. The push‐out strength increased significantly as water diffused into the specimens (AS and AS + HAc) but decreased significantly in the enzyme environment (AS + ENZ). The diametral tensile strength was highest for specimens in the A environment, which was significantly higher than both the AS and AS + HAc specimens and > 2× higher than the AS + ENZ specimens. The results indicated that a water environment (with or without acid) caused a significant decrease in the mechanical properties of this composite, but the greatest decrease was seen in water with esterase. This is the first study to demonstrate that esterase enzymes affect the bulk strength of a commonly used commercial dental composite. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 2178–2184, 2019.
Hierarchical Fe3O4‐derived organic/inorganic hybrids constructed by modified bio‐inspired functionalization: efficient adsorbents for water‐soluble methylene blue and mechanism
Authors: Zhan Yingqing , Zhao Shumei , Wan Xinyi , He Shuangjiang
Published: January 2019

Background

The development of efficient and sustainable adsorbents is still a challenge for dye removal in practical applications. Here a method to prepare hierarchical Fe3O4‐derived organic/inorganic hybrid adsorbents for methylene blue removal is demonstrated. Typically, two different structured magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized through solvothermal route and chemical co‐precipitation (named as S‐Fe3O4 and C‐Fe3O4 respectively), which were further functionalized by a novel modified mussel‐inspired method with dopamine (DA) and (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (KH550), thus obtaining core‐shell Fe3O4/poly(DA + KH550) adsorbents.

Results

The effects of microstructure, morphology and surface functionalization on the adsorption performance of core‐shell Fe3O4 adsorbents were systematically investigated, thus achieving target structurally optimized core‐shell Fe3O4 adsorbents. Especially, the maximum adsorption capacity of core‐shell S‐Fe3O4/poly(DA + KH550) adsorbent reached 400.00 mg g−1 because of high specific surface area and abundant active adsorption sites. In addition, the adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm fitted a pseudo‐second‐order model and Langmuir model respectively.

Conclusion

The recycling process of adsorbent is sustainable in economy and energy by applying an external permanent magnet. In summary, the high adsorption capacity, easy separation and excellent reusability of S‐Fe3O4/poly(DA + KH550) core‐shell adsorbents make them promising for dye effluent removal. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Usefulness of ultrasound fetal anthropometry in primary and secondary screening to identify small for gestational age: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Goto Eita
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This study was performed to evaluate the usefulness of ultrasound fetal anthropometry in primary and secondary screening to identify small for gestational age (SGA).

Methods

Ten databases, for example, PubMed (MEDLINE), were searched to include all English‐language studies published since 2015 that provided true‐positive and false‐positive and true‐negative and false‐negative results of SGA identification. A bivariate diagnostic meta‐analysis was performed to summarize the sensitivity and specificity as well as positive and negative likelihood ratios (PLR and NLR, respectively) of ultrasound fetal anthropometry for identification of SGA.

Results

Sensitivity and NLR are important in primary screening. Both femur length and anthropometric formulas showed low sensitivity, although abdominal circumference showed moderate sensitivity. Abdominal circumference, femur length, and anthropometric formulas did not have sufficiently low NLR. However, specificity and PLR are important in secondary screening. Abdominal circumference, femur length, and anthropometric formulas all showed high specificity. Neither abdominal circumference nor femur length had sufficiently high PLR, but anthropometric formulas showed sufficiently high PNL.

Conclusions

Abdominal circumference, femur length, and anthropometric formulas are unsuitable in primary screening to identify SGA. However, anthropometric formulas, but not abdominal circumference and femur length, are useful in secondary screening to identify SGA.
Investigation of inner ear anatomy in mouse using X‐ray phase contrast tomography
Authors: Yin Hong‐Xia , Zhang Peng , Wang Zheng , Liu Yun‐Fu , Liu Ying , Xiao Ti‐Qiao , Yang Zheng‐Han , Xian Jun‐Fang , Zhao Peng‐Fei , Li Jing , Lv Han , Ding He‐Yu , Liu Xue‐Huan , Zhu Jian‐Ming , Wang Zhen‐Chang
Published: January 2019

A thorough understanding of inner ear anatomy is important for investigators. However, investigation of the mouse inner ear is difficult due to the limitations of imaging techniques. X‐ray phase contrast tomography increases contrast 100–1,000 times compared with conventional X‐ray imaging. This study aimed to investigate inner ear anatomy in a fresh post‐mortem mouse using X‐ray phase contrast tomography and to provide a comprehensive atlas of microstructures with less tissue deformation. All experiments were performed in accordance with our institution's guidelines on the care and use of laboratory animals. A fresh mouse cadaver was scanned immediately after sacrifice using an inline phase contrast tomography system. Slice images were reconstructed using a filtered back‐projection (FBP) algorithm. Standardized axial and coronal planes were adjusted with a multi‐planar reconstruction method. Some three‐dimensional (3D) objects were reconstructed by surface rendering. The characteristic features of microstructures, including otoconia masses of the saccular and utricular maculae, superior and inferior macula cribrosae, single canal, modiolus, and osseous spiral lamina, were described in detail. Spatial positions and relationships of the vestibular structures were exhibited in 3D views. This study investigated mouse inner ear anatomy and provided a standardized presentation of microstructures. In particular, otoconia masses were visualized in their natural status without contrast for the first time. The comprehensive anatomy atlas presented in this study provides an excellent reference for morphology studies of the inner ear.
Rapid thermal immune acclimation in common musk turtles (Sternotherus odoratus)
Authors: Goessling Jeffrey M. , Ward Chelsea , Mendonça Mary T.
Published: January 2019

As infectious diseases in ectothermic vertebrates increasingly threaten wild populations, understanding how host immune systems are affected by the environment is key to understanding the process of infection. In this study, we investigated how temperature change and simulated bacterial infection (via lipopolysaccharide [LPS] injection) interacted to regulate innate immunity, as measured by bactericidal ability (BA), phagocytosis rate, and heterophil:lymphocyte ratio (HLR) in common musk turtles (Sternotherus odoratus). We found that LPS stimulated an acute immune response, as measured by an increase in BA, phagocytosis rate, and HLR. When exposed to a 5 or 10°C temperature change for 48 hr, turtles rapidly acclimated to the new temperature by adjusting their immune output. This acclimation was compensatory as seen by elevated rates of immune output in colder animals and decreased rates of immune output in warmer animals. These results indicate that while temperature change may be a constraint on some animals,
S. odoratus have the ability to rapidly adjust immunity to match environmental thermal demand. This rapid ability to adjust immunity may be related to the broad geographic distribution of musk turtles. Future research should focus on how immune acclimation in ectotherms varies both intraspecifically and interspecifically across regional scales and geographic distributions.
Clinical remission of an inoperable malignant insulinoma by the combination treatment with octreotide and everolimus
Authors: Akahori Hiroshi
Published: January 2019

We report a 52‐year‐old woman with inoperable malignant insulinoma with multiple liver metastases. Histological examination of biopsy specimens from the pancreatic and hepatic lesions revealed pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (pNET), G2. The tumor cells were positive for somatostatin receptor (SSTR) 2, 5, and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Monthly intramuscular administration of octreotide LAR and once‐daily oral administration of everolimus combination treatment markedly reduced the sizes of liver metastases, and hypoglycemia was well controlled. Combination treatment with somatostatin analog and mTOR inhibitor may be another effective approach in inoperable metastatic malignant insulinoma.
Comparison of blood oxygen level‐dependent imaging and diffusion‐weighted imaging in early diagnosis of acute kidney injury in animal models
Authors: Zhang Bihui , Wang Yao , Wang Chengyan , Wang Haochen , Kong Hanjing , Zhang Jue , Zou Yinghua , Yang Min
Published: January 2019

Background

Early diagnosis of acute kidney injury (AKI) has clinical importance. Current methods are neither adequately sensitive nor specific. Blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) imaging and diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) may help to assess AKI in the early phase.

Purpose

To investigate the feasibility of BOLD imaging and DWI in the assessment of AKI and compare the sensitivities of both techniques in early detection of renal damage.

Study Type

Prospective animal study.

Animal Model

Thirty New Zealand white rabbits.

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T clinical MRI/BOLD and DWI.

Assessment

Thirty rabbits were divided into three groups (severe AKI group, mild AKI group, and control group). Transarterial renal embolization with different doses of microspheres was performed to create severe and mild AKI disease models. All the MRI scans of kidneys were conducted within 2 hours after the embolization procedure. Histological examinations with hematoxylin and eosin staining were performed to validate renal damage.

Statistical Tests

Analysis of variance (ANOVA) for comparisons between groups, and paired t‐test for tests within the same group. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Both R2* and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) showed significant differences between the severe AKI group (56.34 ± 3.45 s‐1 for R2*, 1.14 ± 0.23 mm2/s for ADC) and the control group (28.24 ± 2.26 s‐1 for R2*, 1.94 ± 0.33 mm2/s for ADC, both P < 0.01). However, the ADC values did not show significant differences (P = 0.41) between mild AKI group (1.88 ± 0.31 mm2/s for ADC) and the control group (1.94 ± 0.33 mm2/s for ADC), while R2* was still useful in differentiating the two groups (52.32 ± 4.1 s‐1 vs. 28.24 ± 2.26 s‐1 for R2*, P < 0.01). The histopathologic results were found to be correlated with MRI findings.

Data Conclusion

BOLD contrast and DW images are both effective in detecting AKI noninvasively, but BOLD imaging is more sensitive in early detection of mild ischemia than DWI.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:719–724.
Free‐breathing unsedated MRI in children: Justification and techniques
Authors: Janos Sara , Schooler Gary R. , Ngo Jennifer S. , Davis Joseph T.
Published: January 2019

One of the more common and important challenges in the imaging of children is minimizing image degradation caused by motion. This is especially important in MRI, which is often preferable in the pediatric population due to better tissue characterization and lack of ionizing radiation. However, due to the length of time needed for most examinations, MRI is among the most sensitive to disruption by patient motion. Traditionally, deep conscious sedation or general anesthesia was the most common method of reducing motion in children who are unable or unwilling to follow direction. As the drawbacks and risks of anesthesia in children become more known and accepted, the development and optimization of means of mitigating motion and anxiety in children without the use of sedation or anesthesia becomes more urgent. In this article we describe the risks of sedation in the pediatric population and explore current methods of reducing both patient anxiety and imaging degradation from motion in the unsedated, free‐breathing child.

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:365–376.
Effects of minimum soil disturbance practices on controlling water erosion in China's slope farmland: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Jia Lizhi , Zhao Wenwu , Fu Bojie , Daryanto Stefani , Wang Shuai , Liu Yanxu , Zhai Ruijie
Published: January 2019

Slope farmlands are commonly found in China, and soil loss from slope farmland is the main source of river sediment. Minimum soil disturbance practices were considered effectively in controlling water erosion, especially on slope farmlands. Although their beneficial effects have been universally recognized, further research is still needed to quantify the extent of minimum soil disturbance practices in reducing runoff and sediment yield. We present a quantitative review based on a nationwide meta‐analysis, including 536 runoff and 615 sediment‐paired observations, to evaluate the effectiveness of minimum soil disturbance practices in controlling water erosion in China. Minimum soil disturbance practices in China reduced runoff and sediment yield by 36.09% and 51.69%, respectively. Collecting soil to form ridges with no‐tillage, contour tillage with hedgerow, and micro‐basins tillage demonstrated significantly greater (p < 0.05) runoff and sediment yield reductions than other three practices (no‐tillage, no‐tillage with mulch, and contour tillage). Practices that change in soil properties by microtopography management were superior (p < 0.05) to practices that change soil properties without tillage in reducing runoff and sediment yield. Minimum soil disturbance practices are more effective in reducing sediment yield than runoff due to its additional effects besides reducing runoff directly. No correlations between runoff or sediment yield reduction and slope gradient were observed, whereas the efficiency of water erosion control by minimum soil disturbance practices increased with the increasing slope length. As a soil and water conservation measure, minimum soil disturbance practices can be applied in slope farmland of China.
Clinical application of molecular genetics in lymphatic malformations
Authors: Padia Reema , Zenner Kaitlyn , Bly Randall , Bennett James , Bull Catherine , Perkins Jonathan
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To describe the clinical presentation of lymphatic malformations (LM) and genotypically associated disorders and to summarize the recent literature regarding the genetic etiology of LM and provide a biologic correlation to medical and surgical management.

Results

LM are congenital lesions derived from a developmental abnormality of the lymphatic vessels. The severity of disease varies widely and complications can occur with higher staged disease and those associated with a known constellation of symptoms. Somatic mutations of the PIK3CA gene have been found to be an etiologic factor in the development of LM and associated overgrowth syndromes. Sirolimus is a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor that inhibits the pathway downstream of PIK3CA. Preliminary studies in select groups of patients suggest that sirolimus has a role in the medical management of certain aspects of this disease.

Conclusions

Discovery of LM molecular genetics has led to the possibility of targeted therapies and highlights the importance of precision medicine in rare diseases. Identifying genetic mutations in larger cohorts of patients with LM will lead to additional insights. Knowledge of the genetic basis for disease can then lead to discovery of directed medical therapy. A specific molecular diagnosis can also help families understand better why their child is different and provide accurate counseling for subsequent pregnancies.

Level of Evidence

6
Personality traits and complaining behaviors: A focus on Japanese consumers
Authors: Souiden Nizar , Ladhari Riadh , Nataraajan Rajan
Published: January 2019

Despite the fact that personality is thought to be one of the main factors that may explain unhappy consumers’ behavior, very little is known about how it affects their attitudes and complaining strategies. This is particularly true in the case of Japanese consumers where scant research has been conducted on their complaining behaviors. Hence, the main objective of this study is to investigate the roles of three personality traits (i.e., self‐confidence, aggressiveness, and altruism) of Japanese consumers in explaining their attitudes toward complaining, perceived likelihood of successful complaints (PLSCs), and complaining behaviors. On a sample of 263 respondents, a univariate general linear model (GLM) analysis is performed to assess the moderating roles of personality traits on complaint‐related variables. The results show that, on the one hand, in contrast to self‐confidence, the levels (i.e., high vs. low) of aggressiveness and altruism have significant impacts on attitudes toward complaining and PLSCs. However, the level of self‐confidence appears to have the most significant impacts on public complaining behaviors. On the other hand, altruism is found to be the only personality trait that may explain consumers’ private complaining behaviors. Additional analyses reveal interactive effects of the personality traits on complaining attitude and behaviors.
Multivariate intraseasonal rainfall index applied to South America
Authors: Barreto Naurinete J. C. , Cavalcanti Iracema F.A. , Mesquita Michel d.S. , Pedra George U.
Published: January 2019

The intraseasonal variability over South America is investigated using a multivariate index based on maximum covariance analysis (MCA). This technique identifies the correlation patterns of two different data sets. The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) grid precipitation over South America and the tropical means (15°N–15°S) of outgoing long wave radiation (OLR) and zonal wind component at 850 and 200 hPa (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP)/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) reanalysis, respectively) are used in the study. The MCA was applied to these data sets and a Multivariate Intraseasonal Rainfall Index for South America for South America (MIRI.SA) was constructed based on the phase and amplitude vectorial projections of the first two modes. Composites of selected cases when the amplitude was above a threshold are discussed for different phases of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO). Phases (8+1) and (4+5) present strong convection anomalies over the maritime continent and South America, but with opposite signs. These patterns represent the dominant mode of precipitation over South America. Phases (2+3) and (6+7) are transient and related to the secondary mode of precipitation over South America. A space‐phase diagram calculated using the MIRI.SA index at different lags represents the positive precipitation locations over both South America and the Equatorial Pacific. The construction of this diagram in near real time could be used for monitoring precipitation extremes over different areas of South America.
Ferroelectric differential capacitance affected by stresses and strains and implications for use in electronic devices
Authors: Krowne C. M.
Published: January 2019

There has been a continuing interest in finding ways to shrink the dimensions of electronic devices, especially active devices like transistors, down to become compatible with the ever decreasing size scales, using fabrication processes such as at Intel, with the trend toward 10 nm. Eventual gate length in MOSFETs is roughly half this dimension. This had been one of the (not the only one) of interests in using ferroelectric (FE) materials in the gate of FETs, for example, when the FE material displays a negative polarization effect. Such ideas as escaping the Boltzmann tyranny have loomed large, regarding the subthreshold voltage, and have motivated this interest. It is generally understood that for stable, steady state operation of devices typical of microwave and millimeter wave electronics, no negative differential capacitance is possible with conventional thinking. However, it may be possible, perhaps in transient regions of the hysteretic curve, with strain engineering of materials, to obtain some if not all elements of the differential capacitance tensor which are negative. The analysis is based upon analyzing the physics using thermodynamic phenomenological free energy.
Graphene oxide‐wrapped polyaniline nanorods for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Bharadiya Preetam , Jain Rini , Chaudhari Vijay , Mishra Satyendra
Published: January 2019

This study depicts the chemical synthesis and supercapacitive behavior of nanocomposites of Polyaniline nanorods wrap with graphene oxide (PANI/GO). Synthesis of PANI/GO nanocomposites was carried out by in situ oxidative solution polymerization of aniline in the presence of Nitric acid, acting as a proton donor. The nanocomposites were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, contact angle analysis, cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. FESEM revealed the formation of PANI nanorods with the aspect ratio in the range of 3–5, while TEM revealed the wrapping of GO sheets on the PANI nanorods. Thermal stability showed decreasing trend while surface hydrophobicity was of increasing trend with GO concentration due to partial reduction of GO, as observed in Raman spectra. PANI/10 wt% GO (PANI/GO10) nanocomposite electrode showed highest specific capacitance of 276 F/g as compared with 180 F/g of Pure PANI. Cyclic stability of 80% was retained for PANI/GO10 nanocomposites after 500 cycles at a current density of 0.5A/g as compared with unstable PANI. The enhanced specific capacitance and good cyclic stability with increasing GO concentration revealed the good potential of PANI/GO nanocomposites for supercapacitor applications. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1716–E1724, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Prediction on residual stresses of carbon/epoxy composite at cryogenic temperature
Authors: Yang Lei , Li Zhiwei , Xu Hao , Wu Zhanjun
Published: January 2019

In this article, the elastic modulus and coefficient of thermal expansion of bisphenol F epoxy resin from room temperature to cryogenic temperature (−180°C) were tested through a cryogenic environment test system. The elastic modulus of carbon/epoxy composite at room and cryogenic temperature was also tested. The measured temperature‐dependent material parameters are used as the input of a 3D micromechanical finite element model of fiber‐reinforced polymer matrix composite, considering random fiber distribution. The longitudinal and transversal elastic modulus of the carbon/epoxy composite is predicted by the present model, with good agreements between the predicted and experimental results. Then the residual stresses of carbon/epoxy composite due to cryogenic temperature are predicted by this model. It is found that high residual stress occurs in the matrix between two adjacent fibers. The longitudinal residual stress is compressive in fibers but tensile in matrix. The transversal stress in fibers is mainly compressive, and there is comparable transversal tensile and compressive stress in matrix. The maximum residual stress in the composite is the longitudinal tensile stress in matrix. This work can lay a foundation for the design and application of polymer–matrix composites in cryogenic environment. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3412–3420, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of low concentration hollow glass microspheres on mechanical and thermomechanical properties of epoxy composites
Authors: Imran Mohammed , Rahaman Ariful , Pal Soumen
Published: January 2019

The processing of hollow glass microsphere (HGM) based composites is one of the growing areas in materials research due to the potential of significantly changing material properties even at low HGM concentrations. HGM‐epoxy composites are prepared by sonication method. Four weight ratio configurations are considered (1, 3, 5 wt% HGM and 5 wt% NH2functionalized HGM) and compared with neat epoxy to study the micro‐enrichment effect. The influence of low volume HGM and functionalized HGM reinforcement on epoxy in the compressive and thermo‐mechanical behavior of the composites were characterized by thermo‐gravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis, and compression testing. The compressive strength of HP5%sample decreased in 101%, as compared with that of EP sample, whereas, storage modulus of HP5%and f‐HP5%sample is increased by 27.7 and 32.5%, as compared with the EP sample, but did not significantly affected the thermal stability of the obtained composites. Scanning electron microscope images of the fractured samples had shown a good dispersion and interaction of the HGM in the matrix. By introducing HGM content, there was a remarkable difference in the surface morphology of the fractured surface of epoxy. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3493–3499, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
The effect of poly(ethylene glycol) mixed with poly(l‐lactic acid) on the crystallization characteristics and properties of their blends
Authors: Athanasoulia Ioanna‐Georgia I , Christoforidis Maximos N , Korres Dimitrios M , Tarantili Petroula A
Published: January 2019

The non‐isothermal and isothermal crystallizations of extruded poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) blends with 10, 20 and 30 wt% poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) were investigated with differential scanning calorimetry. The formation of α‐form crystals in the blend films was verified using X‐ray diffraction and an increase in crystallinity indexes using Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy. Crystallization and melting temperatures and crystallinity of PLLA increased with decreasing cooling rate (CR) and showed higher values for the blends. Although PLLA crystallized during both cooling and heating, after incorporation of PEG and with CR = 2 °C min−1 its crystallization was completed during cooling. Increasingly distinct with CR, a small peak appeared on the lower temperature flank of the PLLA melting curve in the blends. A three‐dimensional nucleation process with increasing contribution from nuclei growth at higher CR was verified from Avrami analysis, whereas Kissinger's method showed that the diluent effect of 10 and 20 wt% PEG in PLLA decreased the effective energy barrier. During isothermal crystallization, crystallization half‐time increased with temperature (Tic) for the blends, decreased with PEG content and was lower than that of pure PLLA. In addition, the Avrami rate constants were significantly higher than those of pure PLLA, at the lower Tic. Different crystal morphologies in the PLLA phase were formed, melting in a broader and slightly higher Tm range than pure PLLA. The crystallization activation energy of PLLA decreased by 56% after the addition of 10 wt% PEG, increasing though with PEG content. Finally, PEG/PLLA blends presented improved flexibility and hydrophilicity. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry