bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Right ventricular recovery during follow‐up is associated with improved survival in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Dini Frank Lloyd , Carluccio Erberto , Simioniuc Anca , Biagioli Paolo , Reboldi Gianpaolo , Galeotti Gian Giacomo , Raineri Claudia , Gargani Luna , Scelsi Laura , Mandoli Giulia Elena , Cannito Antonia , Rossi Andrea , Temporelli Pier Luigi , Ghio Stefano ,   on behalf of the Network Labs Ultrasound (NEBULA) in Heart Failure Study Group
Published: September 2016

Aims

A compromised tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) is associated with worse survival in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, it is not known whether a reversible abnormal TAPSE at follow‐up predicts survival. Our aim was to evaluate whether a reversible abnormal TAPSE is associated with a better survival in patients with chronic HFrEF.

Methods and results

A complete echocardiography was performed in 706 patients with chronic HFrEF (LVEF ≤45%) at baseline and after 6 ± 3 months. Right ventricular (RV) systolic function was evaluated using TAPSE. The study endpoint was all‐cause mortality. At baseline, TAPSE was severely reduced (≤14 mm) in 89 (13%) patients, and slightly reduced (>14 but <18 mm) in 157 (22%) patients. During a median follow‐up of 40 months, 152 patients reached the endpoint. The event rate (per 100 patients/year) was lower in patients with persistently normal TAPSE (≥18 mm, n = 393) [3.3%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.5–4.3], and in those with reversible TAPSE (n = 120) (4.6%, 95% CI 3.1–7.0), compared with patients with worsening TAPSE (n = 90) (11.9%, 95% CI 8.7–16.3), and those with persistently reduced TAPSE (n = 103) (12.6%, 95% CI 9.3–17.1; log‐rank 69.4, P < 0.0001). A reversible abnormal TAPSE was associated with improved survival at multivariable Cox regression analysis (hazard ratio 0.48, 95% CI 0.29–0.79, P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Patients with chronic HFrEF who have abnormal TAPSE at baseline but reverse their dysfunction during follow‐up have better survival than patients with either worsened TAPSE or persistently abnormal TAPSE, and similar to that of patients with persistently normal TAPSE.
C‐Silyl‐N,N‐dialkyl‐N′‐arylformamidines: Synthesis and Reactions with Phosphorus(III) Chlorides
Authors: Marchenko Anatoliy , Koidan Georgyi , Hurieva Anastasiya , Vlasenko Yurii , Kostyuk Aleksandr
Published: September 2016

A method for the synthesis of new C‐silyl‐N,N‐dialkyl‐N′‐arylformamidines was developed. These derivatives were formed by the deprotonation of N‐(trimethylsilyl)formamidinium salts to give the corresponding N‐trimethylsilyl carbenes followed by a 1,2‐migration of the silyl group. The reactions of C‐silylformamidines with phosphorus(III) chlorides were then studied. The reactions between chlorodiphenylphosphane and the C‐silylformamidines readily afforded C‐phosphanylformamidines in high yields. The reactions of dichlorophosphanes and C‐silylformamidines yielded previously unknown phosphanes that feature two formamidine substituents. In the reaction with phosphorus trichloride, the sterically least encumbered formamidine gave a stable two‐coordinate compound through the formation of an intermediate tris(phosphane). The reactions of the sterically more encumbered formamidines led to the substitution of only two chlorine atoms to give a chlorophosphane or benzazaphosphole. The structures of key compounds were proven by X‐ray crystal structure analyses.
Heterotrimetallic CuII(L)–LnIII–MIII (M = Cr, Fe; Ln = Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd) Complexes Ranging from 0D Clusters to 1D Chains and 2D Networks: Syntheses, Structures, and Magnetism
Authors: Zhou Hongbo , Chen Chao , Wu Kang , Liu Yashu , Shen Xiaoping
Published: September 2016

Four heterotrimetallic complexes, {[Cu(L)Pr(H2O)4][Fe(CN)6]}2·2CH3OH·5H2O (1), {[Cu(L)Nd(H2O)4][Fe(CN)6]}2·CH3OH·6H2O (2), {[Cu(L)Sm (H2O)4][Cr(CN)6]·CH3OH·3H2O}n (3), and {[Cu(L)Gd(H2O)3][Fe(CN)6]·CH3OH·0.5CH3CN·2H2O}n [4; L = N,N′‐ethylenebis(3‐methoxysalicylideneiminato) dianion] were synthesized by a self‐assembly method and characterized structurally and magnetically. The results indicate that 1 and 2 are discrete hexanuclear clusters, whereas 3 and 4 form 1D regular chains and 2D networks, respectively. Interestingly, all of the structures possess the same structural inner core of CuII(L)–LnIII–MIII units, which can produce a variety of different structural forms. Magnetic measurements reveal that weak d–f magnetic coupling and the single‐ion magnetic effect of the LnIII ions both contribute to the final magnetic behavior.
Enantioseparation of hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids by hydroxypropyl‐γ‐cyclodextrin‐modified micellar electrokinetic chromatography
Authors: Kodama Shuji , Nakajima Shota , Ozaki Hiromichi , Takemoto Ryota , Itabashi Yutaka , Kuksis Arnis
Published: September 2016

Complete resolution of hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (HETE) enantiomers was achieved using hydroxypropyl‐γ‐cyclodextrin (HP‐γ‐CD)‐modified MEKC. The optimum running conditions were determined to be utilizing a 30 mM phosphate–15 mM borate buffer (pH 9.0) containing 30 mM HP‐γ‐CD and 75 mM SDS as the BGE, application of +30 kV as the effective voltage, and carrying out the experiment at 15°C. The eluents were detected at 235 nm. The method was used successfully for the simultaneous separations of (S)‐ and (R)‐enantiomers of regioisomeric 8‐, 11‐, 12‐, and 15‐HETEs. Subsequently, the optimized method was applied to evaluate the stereochemistry of 8‐ and 12‐HETEs from the marine red algae, Gracilaria vermiculophylla and Gracilaria arcuata, respectively. The 8‐HETE was found to be a mixture of 98% (R)‐enantiomer and 2% (S)‐enantiomer, while the 12‐HETE was a mixture of 98% (S)‐enantiomer and 2% (R)‐enantiomer. The present study demonstrates that the HP‐γ‐CD‐modified MEKC method is simple and sensitive and provides unambiguous information on the configuration of natural and synthetic HETEs.
Platinum‐Free Counter Electrode Using Polymer‐Capped Graphene Nanoplatelets for Cobalt(II)/(III)‐Mediated Porphyrin‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Yu‐Chieh , Zhai Peng , Lu Man‐Ning , Lee Chih‐Chi , Reddy Kamani Sudhir K. , Tingare Yogesh , Yeh Chen‐Yu , Wei Tzu‐Chien
Published: September 2016

We present a facile and scalable method to prepare water‐dispersed polyvinylpyrrolidone‐capped graphene (PVP‐graphene) nanoplatelets from an ordinary graphite powder. The 3 D hydrophobic graphite powder was exfoliated into 2 D hydrophilic PVP‐graphene nanoplatelets by inducing intercalation through the PVP chains and through high‐powered sonication. The nanoplatelets were characterized by using XRD, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and they were found to be nonoxidative and to have dimensions of a few hundred nanometers. The suitability of PVP‐graphene as a catalyst for a CoII/III redox couple was evaluated by coating the prepared PVP‐graphene nanoplatelets on fluorine‐doped tin oxide glass through a unique two‐step dipping method. The coated nanoplatelets were examined by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, UV/Vis spectroscopy, and current–voltage curve analysis, and it was observed that PVP‐graphene exhibited a high catalytic effect because the charge transfer resistance from CoIII to CoII was as low as 1.17 Ω cm2. A porphyrin‐sensitized solar cell with this counter electrode and an efficiency of 8.95 % was demonstrated.
Waffle production: influence of batter ingredients on sticking of fresh egg waffles at baking plates—Part I: effect of starch and sugar components
Authors: Huber Regina , Schoenlechner Regine
Published: September 2016

Fresh egg waffles are a sweet convenience product typically baked from eggs, water, sugar, flour, fat, leavening agents, emulsifiers, preservatives, and flavors. In industrial production, waffles are baked continuously in high amounts of up to 200 kg raw material per hour. Therefore, it is important that the waffles do not stick onto the baking plates, which can cause significant product loss and increased costs due to interruption of the baking process, required cleaning procedures, and restarting of the energy‐consuming start‐up phase. Sticking of waffles is greatly influenced not only by baking plate material, release agent, baking temperature, and time, but also by the batter ingredients. In this study, effects of different starches and sugar components were investigated. Within the selected starches, potato starch demonstrated the highest effects on increasing waffle stability and releasing properties compared to wheat and lupine flour (less than 7% sticking waffles). Rice flour performed worst, with almost 50% of sticking waffles. Most of these waffles were broken during take‐off, due to their crumbly texture. Within the sugar components, glycerine was better suitable than sorbitol and crystal sugar was superior compared to powdered sugar. They required less take‐off force. It could be demonstrated that waffles with increased stability and texture were those that showed the least number of sticking waffles, thus the main aim of batter ingredients was to improve waffle quality. Waffle quality was influenced by batter parameters, significant correlations could be found, for example, a positive correlation between pH‐ and L‐value, negative correlations between pH‐ and a‐value, or density and aw‐value. This resulted in significant correlations with take‐off‐force, which was correlated with L*‐ and b*‐value (negative) and positive to a*‐value. Sticking behavior was strongly associated with b*‐value (positive) and to a*‐value (negative).
Desynchronization of autonomic response and central autonomic network connectivity in posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Thome Janine , Densmore Maria , Frewen Paul A. , McKinnon Margaret C. , Théberge Jean , Nicholson Andrew A. , Koenig Julian , Thayer Julian F. , Lanius Ruth A.
Published: September 2016

Objectives

Although dysfunctional emotion regulatory capacities are increasingly recognized as contributing to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), little work has sought to identify biological markers of this vulnerability. Heart rate variability (HRV) is a promising biomarker that, together with neuroimaging, may assist in gaining a deeper understanding of emotion dysregulation in PTSD. The objective of the present study was, therefore, to characterize autonomic response patterns, and their related neuronal patterns in individuals with PTSD at rest.

Methods

PTSD patients (N = 57) and healthy controls (N = 41) underwent resting‐state fMRI. Connectivity patterns of key regions within the central autonomic network (CAN)—including the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), amygdala, and periaqueductal gray (PAG)—were examined using a seed‐based approach. Observed connectivity patterns were then correlated to resting HRV.

Results

In contrast to controls, individuals with PTSD exhibited lower HRV. In addition, whereas controls engaged a localized connectivity pattern of CAN‐related brain regions, in PTSD, key CAN regions were associated with widespread connectivity patterns in regions related to emotional reactivity (vmPFC and amygdala to insular cortex and lentiform nucleus; PAG to insula) and motor readiness (vmPFC and amygdala to precentral gyrus; PAG to precentral gyrus and cerebellum). Critically, whereas CAN connectivity in controls was strongly related to higher HRV (insula, mPFC, superior frontal cortex, thalamus), HRV covariation was absent in PTSD subjects.

Conclusions

This study provides the first evidence for a specific psychophysiological–neuronal profile in PTSD individuals characterized by lower resting HRV and a lack of HRV covariation with CAN‐related brain connectivity. Hum Brain Mapp 38:27–40, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AHNS series – Do you know your guidelines? Diagnosis and management of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ow Thomas J. , Wang Heng Rui , McLellan Beth , Ciocon David , Amin Bijal , Goldenberg David , Schmalbach Cecelia E. ,   The Education Committee of the American Head and Neck Society (AHNS)
Published: September 2016

This article is the next installment of the series “Do You Know Your Guidelines” presented by the Education Committee of the American Head and Neck Society. Guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, workup, and management of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are reviewed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: 1708–1716, 2016
A phase I/Ib trial targeting the Pi3k/Akt pathway using perifosine: Long‐term progression‐free survival of patients with resistant neuroblastoma
Authors: Kushner Brian H. , Cheung Nai‐Kong V. , Modak Shakeel , Becher Oren J. , Basu Ellen M. , Roberts Stephen S. , Kramer Kim , Dunkel Ira J.
Published: September 2016

AKT plays a pivotal role in driving the malignant phenotype of many cancers, including high‐risk neuroblastoma (HR‐NB). AKT signaling, however, is active in normal tissues, raising concern about excessive toxicity from its suppression. The oral AKT inhibitor perifosine showed tolerable toxicity in adults and in our phase I trial in children with solid tumors (clinicaltrials.gov NCT00776867). We now report on the HR‐NB experience. HR‐NB patients received perifosine 50–75 mg m−2 day−1 after a loading dose of 100–200 mg m−2 on day 1, and continued on study until progressive disease. The 27 HR‐NB patients included three treated for primary refractory disease and 24 with disease resistant to salvage therapy after 1–5 (median 2) relapses; only one had MYCN‐amplified HR‐NB. Pharmacokinetic studies showed μM concentrations consistent with cytotoxic levels in preclinical models. Nine patients (all MYCN‐non‐amplified) remained progression‐free through 43+ to 74+ (median 54+) months from study entry, including the sole patient to show a complete response and eight patients who had persistence of abnormal 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine skeletal uptake but never developed progressive disease. Toxicity was negligible in all 27 patients, even with the prolonged treatment (11–62 months, median 38) in the nine long‐term progression‐free survivors. The clinical findings (i) confirm the safety of therapeutic serum levels of an AKT inhibitor in children; (ii) support perifosine for MYCN‐non‐amplified HR‐NB as monotherapy after completion of standard treatment or combined with other agents (based on preclinical studies) to maximize antitumor effects; and (iii) highlight the welcome possibility that refractory or relapsed MYCN‐non‐amplified HR‐NB is potentially curable.
DDR2–CYR61–MMP1 Signaling Pathway Promotes Bone Erosion in Rheumatoid Arthritis Through Regulating Migration and Invasion of Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes
Authors: Huang Tong-Lie , Mu Nan , Gu Jin-Tao , Shu Zhen , Zhang Kuo , Zhao Jin-Kang , Zhang Cun , Hao Qiang , Li Wei-Na , Zhang Wang-Qian , Liu Nan-Nan , Zhang Yong , Zhang Wei , Xue Xiao-Chang , Zhang Ying-Qi
Published: September 2016

Regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) by collagen in the fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) plays a critical role in joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our previous study indicated that discoidin receptor 2 (DDR2) mediated collagen upregulation of MMPs. However, the precise underlying mechanism remains unclear. We report here that CYR61, a secreted, extracellular matrix–associated signaling protein which is capable of regulating a broad range of cellular activities, including cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and apoptosis, is significantly upregulated in collagen II–stimulated RA FLS. Further studies found that collagen II–activated phosphorylated-DDR2 induces CYR61 through activation of transcription factor activator protein 1 (AP-1). The elevated CYR61, in turn, accelerates MMP1 production via ETS1 (ETS proto-oncogene 1). In addition, CYR61 significantly promotes FLS invasion and migration. Blockade of CYR61 by an adenovirus expressing CYR61 shRNA (Ad-shCYR61) in vivo remarkably ameliorated the severity of arthritis, reduced inflammatory cytokine secretion, and attenuated bone erosion as detected by micro–computed tomography (μCT), in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rats. Taken together, we uncovered the Collagen II–DDR2–AP-1–CYR61–ETS1–MMP1 loop in RA FLS. In which, CYR61 acts as a hinge to promote cartilage damage through regulating FLS invasion, migration, and MMP1 production and the inflammatory cascade in RA. Thus, CYR61 may be a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target for RA treatment. © 2016 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
On Flag‐Transitive Symmetric Designs of Affine Type
Authors: Biliotti Mauro , Montinaro Alessandro
Published: September 2016

It is shown that, if is a nontrivial 2‐ symmetric design, with , admitting a flag‐transitive automorphism group G of affine type, then , p an odd prime, and G is a point‐primitive, block‐primitive subgroup of . Moreover, acts flag‐transitively, point‐primitively on , and is isomorphic to the development of a difference set whose parameters and structure are also provided.
‘Effects of novel root repair materials on attachment and morphological behaviour of periodontal ligament fibroblasts: Scanning electron microscopy observation’
Authors: Akbulut Makbule Bilge , Uyar Arpaci Pembegul , Unverdi Eldeniz Ayce
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the adhesion of periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLs) on newly proposed root repair materials [Biodentine, MM‐MTA, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement, and SDR], in comparison with contemporary root repair materials [IRM, Dyract compomer, ProRoot MTA (PMTA), and Vitrebond]. Five discs from each material were fabricated in sterile Teflon molds, and the specimens were aged and prewetted in cell culture media for 96 hours. Three material discs were used for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for the assessment of the attachment, density, and morphological changes in the PDLs, while two samples were used for energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDX) to determine the elemental composition of the materials. Human PDLs were plated onto the materials at a density of 10,000/well, and incubated for 3 days. The SEM micrographs were taken at different magnifications (500× and 5000×). In the SEM, the cells were attached and well spread‐out on the surfaces of the Biodentine, PMTA, and Dyract compomer, while varied cell densities and morphological alterations were observed in the Vitrebond, IRM, MM‐MTA, SDR, and PMMA bone cement groups. The SEM‐EDX analysis revealed a maximum calcium percentage in the PMTA specimens, as well a maximum silicon percentage in the Dyract compomer specimens. This in vitro study demonstrated that the Biodentine and Dyract compomer supported PDL cell adhesion and spreading. The PMTA presented a favorable scaffold for better attachment of the PDL cell aggregates. Therefore, the calcium and silicon content of a material may enhance the PDL cell attachment.
The Effects of Feeding on Cardiac Control of the Broad‐Nosed Caiman (Caiman latirostris): The Role of the Autonomic Nervous System and NANC Factors
Authors: Braga Victor Hugo Da Silva , Armelin Vinicius Araújo , Teixeira Mariana Teodoro , Abe Augusto Shinya , Rantin Francisco Tadeu , Florindo Luiz Henrique
Published: September 2016

The metabolic increment that occurs after feeding demands cardiovascular adjustments to be maintained, as increased heart rate (fH) and cardiac output. In mammals, postprandial tachycardia seems to be triggered by an increase in adrenergic activity and by nonadrenergic noncholinergic (NANC) factors, while in ectothermic vertebrates, this adjustment seems to be linked to a withdrawal of vagal drive as well as to NANC factors. Because the factors behind postprandial tachycardia have not yet been investigated in crocodilians, the present study sought to evaluate the postprandial tachycardia mediators in the broad‐nosed caiman. To this end, fasting and digesting animals were instrumented with intraperitoneal cannula and subcutaneous electrocardiogram electrodes (for the measurement of fH, cardiac autonomic tones, and total fH variability, as well as for a power spectral analysis of fH). Data were then collected with the animals in an untreated state, as well as after muscarinic cholinergic blockade with atropine (2.5 mg kg–1) and after double autonomic blockade with atropine and propranolol (5.0 mg kg−1). Fasting animals’ fH was ∼18 bpm, a value which increased to ∼30 bpm during digestion. After the double autonomic blockade, fasting animals exhibited an fH of ∼15 bpm, while digesting animals’ fH was ∼23 bpm. This result is evidence of the presence of NANC factors with positive chronotropic effects acting during digestion. The calculated autonomic tones showed that, after feeding, the adrenergic tone increased while the cholinergic tone remained unchanged. Finally, fH variability analyses revealed that this adrenergic increase is primarily derived from circulating catecholamines.
Cyclization–oxidation of Benzylidenehydrazinecarbothioamides by FeCl3.6H2O or ZnCl2.6H2O Catalysts and Synthesis of New 1,3,4‐Thiadiazolo‐[3,2‐ α]Pyrimidines
Authors: Darehkordi Ali , Zarezadeh Abarqouei Behnam , Rahmani Fariba
Published: September 2016

We report new method for preparation of 2‐amino‐5‐aryl‐1,3,4‐thiadiazoles by reaction of arylaldehyde with thiosemicarbazide and in the next step via cyclization of 2‐aryl hydrazinecarbothioamide in the presence of ZnCl2.6H2O or FeCl3.6H2O. Also, in this research, new substituted 1,3,4‐thiadiazolo‐[3,2‐α]pyrimidines were synthesized by the reaction of 2‐amino‐5‐aryl‐1,3,4‐thiadiazoles derivatives with DMAD or DEAD in the presence of K2CO3 under reflux conditions. The FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, elemental analysis and single‐ crystal X‐ray analysis confirm the structures of the products.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI of the prostate: An intraindividual assessment of the effect of temporal resolution on qualitative detection and quantitative analysis of histopathologically proven prostate cancer
Authors: Ream Justin M. , Doshi Ankur M. , Dunst Diane , Parikh Nainesh , Kong Max X. , Babb James S. , Taneja Samir S. , Rosenkrantz Andrew B.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To assess the effects of temporal resolution (RT) in dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) on qualitative tumor detection and quantitative pharmacokinetic parameters in prostate cancer.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective Institutional Review Board (IRB)‐approved study included 58 men (64 ± 7 years). They underwent 3T prostate MRI showing dominant peripheral zone (PZ) tumors (24 with Gleason ≥ 4 + 3), prior to prostatectomy. Continuously acquired DCE utilizing GRASP (Golden‐angle RAdial Sparse Parallel) was retrospectively reconstructed at RT of 1.4 sec, 3.7 sec, 6.0 sec, 9.7 sec, and 14.9 sec. A reader placed volumes‐of‐interest on dominant tumors and benign PZ, generating quantitative pharmacokinetic parameters (ktrans, ve) at each RT. Two blinded readers assessed each RT for lesion presence, location, conspicuity, and reader confidence on a 5‐point scale. Data were assessed by mixed‐model analysis of variance (ANOVA), generalized estimating equation (GEE), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

RT did not affect sensitivity (R1all: 69.0%–72.4%, all Padj = 1.000; R1GS≥4 + 3: 83.3–91.7%, all Padj = 1.000; R2all: 60.3–69.0%, all Padj = 1.000; R2GS≥4 + 3: 58.3%–79.2%, all Padj = 1.000). R1 reported greater conspicuity of GS ≥ 4 + 3 tumors at RT of 1.4 sec vs. 14.9 sec (4.29 ± 1.23 vs. 3.46 ± 1.44; Padj = 0.029). No other tumor conspicuity pairwise comparison reached significance (R1all: 2.98–3.43, all Padj ≥ 0.205; R2all: 2.57–3.19, all Padj ≥ 0.059; R1GS≥4 + 3: 3.46–4.29, all other Padj ≥ 0.156; R2GS≥4 + 3: 2.92–3.71, all Padj ≥ 0.439). There was no effect of RT on reader confidence (R1all: 3.17–3.34, all Padj = 1.000; R2all: 2.83–3.19, all Padj ≥ 0.801; R1GS≥4 + 3: 3.79–4.21, all Padj = 1.000; R2GS≥4 + 3: 3.13–3.79, all Padj = 1.000). ktrans and ve of tumor and benign tissue did not differ across RT (all adjusted P values [Padj] = 1.000). RT did not significantly affect area under the curve (AUC) of Ktrans or ve for differentiating tumor from benign (all Padj = 1.000).

Conclusion

Current PI‐RADS recommendations for RT of 10 seconds may be sufficient, with further reduction to the stated PI‐RADS preference of RT ≤ 7 seconds offering no benefit in tumor detection or quantitative analysis.

Level of Evidence: 3

J. MAGN. RESON. IMAGING 2017;45:1464–1475
Comparing Different Synthetic Talc as Fillers for Polyurethane Nanocomposites
Authors: Dias Guilherme , Prado Manoela , Carone Carlos , Ligabue Rosane , Dumas Angela , Le Roux Christophe , Micoud Pierre , Martin François , Einloft Sandra
Published: September 2016

This work presents the syntheses of PU nanocomposites, by in situ polymerization technique, using different synthetic talcs as inorganic filler. The fillers were obtained from two different hydrothermal treatments and composition (talc‐Mg and talc‐Ni). For nanocomposites syntheses 3% w/w of synthetic talc were added related to the weight of pure polymer. Samples were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) to understand the influence of the fillers syntheses and composition in morphological and thermal properties of the obtained nanocomposites. When talc‐Ni was used as filler, the resulting nanocomposite was intercalated while with talc‐Mg was exfoliated into the polyurethane matrix. Both fillers have increased the thermal properties of the polymer, but the exfoliated nanocomposite provided higher thermal stability.
Recycling of Post‐Consumer HDPE Drug Packaging with Banana Pseudostem Fiber
Authors: Collet Adriana , Flach Michel V. , da Silva Patrícia A. , Catto André Luís , Klauck Cláudia Regina , Rodrigues Marco Antônio Siqueira , Jahno Vanusca D.
Published: September 2016

As the life expectancy of the population increases, the quantity of solid waste produced has also risen. There is therefore a clear need to recycle materials, particularly polymers, and it is very important to reduce the time taken for materials to degrade after they have been discarded. The objective of this study was to develop a composite material from a mixture of waste drug packaging made from HDPE and fiber from the pseudostems of banana plants. A series of experiments were conducted to determine the characteristics of this compound, including tests of its mechanical properties, analyses with scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy, and tests of biodegradability and ecotoxicity. The infrared analysis showed that the compound was free from chemical groups that could indicate contamination by medications. The biodegradability assessment showed that the HDPERC5 compound took 28% less time to degrade after use was than the post‐consumer HDPE (HDPER). The HDPERC5 compound exhibited the best results for possible use for production of domestic utilities, in addition to a shorter degradation time if its final disposal destination were to be a landfill.
Accuracy of weight loss information in Spanish search engine results on the internet
Authors: Cardel Michelle I. , Chavez Sarah , Bian Jiang , Peñaranda Eribeth , Miller Darci R. , Huo Tianyao , Modave François
Published: September 2016

Objective

To systematically assess the quality of online information related to weight loss that Spanish speakers in the U.S. are likely to access.

Methods

This study evaluated the accessibility and quality of information for websites that were identified from weight loss queries in Spanish and compared this with previously published results in English. The content was scored with respect to five dimensions: nutrition, physical activity, behavior, pharmacotherapy, and surgical recommendations.

Results

Sixty‐six websites met eligibility criteria (21 commercial, 24 news/media, 10 blogs, 0 medical/government/university, 11 unclassified sites). Of 16 possible points, mean content quality score was 3.4 (SD = 2.0). Approximately 1.5% of sites scored greater than 8 (out of 12) on nutrition, physical activity, and behavior. Unsubstantiated claims were made on 94% of the websites. Content quality scores varied significantly by type of website (P < 0.0001) with unclassified websites scoring the highest (mean = 6.3, SD = 1.4) and blogs scoring the lowest (mean = 2.2, SD = 1.2). All content quality scores were lower for Spanish websites relative to English websites.

Conclusions

Weight loss information accessed in Spanish Web searches is suboptimal and relatively worse than weight loss information accessed in English, suggesting that U.S. Spanish speakers accessing weight loss information online may be provided with incomplete and inaccurate information.
Preparation and characterization of poly(trimethylene carbonate) and reduced graphene oxide composites for nerve regeneration
Authors: Rotman Stijn G. , Guo Zhengchao , Grijpma Dirk W. , Poot André A.
Published: September 2016

Although peripheral nerves are known to have some regenerative abilities, completely separated nerve ends are rarely known to restore function without medical intervention. The main scientific focus for novel treatments of peripheral nerve injury concentrates on a biodegradable nerve guide channel (NGC) that promotes and guides axonal regrowth. Because electrically conductive NGCs promote axon regeneration, we propose a composite material consisting of the polymer poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) and the conductive filler reduced graphene oxide (rGO). Graphite was oxidized following Hummers' method, exfoliated using sonication and subsequently reduced with hydrazine in order to form thin sheets of rGO. Three‐armed PTMC functionalized with methacrylic anhydride (MA) was dissolved in dispersions of rGO in dimethylformamide with desired rGO contents. After precipitation and solvent casting in chloroform, the films were crosslinked under UV light. The PTMC‐MA/rGO composite films with 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 wt% showed increasing electroconductivity with values up to 6.88 × 10−2 S cm−1. Culturing of PC‐12 cells showed that after initial cell adhesion, the cells proliferated on the surface of the PTMC‐MA/rGO composite films, regardless of the amount of rGO loading. The results imply that these PTMC‐MA/rGO composites show promise toward their use in the fabrication of NGCs. The electrically conductive materials are expected to increase the rate of axonal regeneration, resulting in improved functional recovery of transected peripheral nerves. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase‐separated mixed‐macromer hydrogel networks and scaffolds prepared by stereolithography
Authors: Przeradzka Magdalena A. , van Bochove Bas , Bor Ton C. , Grijpma Dirk W.
Published: September 2016

Mixed‐macromer networks prepared by using biodegradable functionalized oligomers and a combinatorial chemistry approach have shown to be networks with high water uptake, excellent mechanical properties, and good cell adhesion. This may be due to phase separation within these networks, although this has not been investigated to date. Here we show that these networks are indeed phase‐separated. In differential scanning calorimetry experiments, Tg values of each constituent material used in the networks were observed. Furthermore, atomic force microscopy and X‐ray diffraction experiments showed phase separation of the crystalline and amorphous phases of the networks in the dry state. In the hydrated state, however, the crystalline phase was not visible. Subsequently, we prepared designed porous 3D structures of the mixed‐macromer networks by using stereolithography. We have shown that such structures have excellent mechanical properties with compression moduli of 20–170 kPa. Unlike conventional synthetic hydrogels such as poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels, these structures do not fail under compression and return to their original dimensions after re‐equilibration in water. This make these materials excellent candidates for soft tissue engineering of tissues such as menisci or intervertebral discs. Finally, a designed porous meniscus implant was prepared. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tolerance and effectiveness of nivolumab after pediatric T‐cell replete, haploidentical, bone marrow transplantation: A case report
Authors: Shad Aziza T. , Huo Jeffrey S. , Darcy Courtney , Abu‐Ghosh Amal , Esposito Giuseppe , Holuba Mary‐Jo , Robey Nancy , Cooke Kenneth R. , Symons Heather J. , Chen Allen R. , Llosa Nicolas J.
Published: September 2016

To date, there has been a lack of pediatric experience regarding the efficacy and tolerability of immune checkpoint inhibitors after haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). We present the case of a 22‐year‐old female with multiple‐relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) who presented with a new relapse after haploidentical (post‐haplo) HSCT. Anti‐PD‐1 therapy with nivolumab resulted in significant objective disease response and clinical improvement without notable side effects, including the absence of a graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). This case report suggests that immune checkpoint inhibition may be safely tolerated even in the setting of haploidentical HSCT, without triggering overt GVHD.
Eliciting the child's voice in adverse event reporting in oncology trials: Cognitive interview findings from the Pediatric Patient‐Reported Outcomes version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events initiative
Authors: Reeve Bryce B. , McFatrich Molly , Pinheiro Laura C. , Weaver Meaghann S. , Sung Lillian , Withycombe Janice S. , Baker Justin N. , Mack Jennifer W. , Waldron Mia K. , Gibson Deborah , Tomlinson Deborah , Freyer David R. , Mowbray Catriona , Jacobs Shana , Palma Diana , Martens Christa E. , Gold Stuart H. , Jackson Kathryn D. , Hinds Pamela S.
Published: September 2016

Background

Adverse event (AE) reporting in oncology trials is required, but current practice does not directly integrate the child's voice. The Pediatric Patient‐Reported Outcomes version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO‐CTCAE) is being developed to assess symptomatic AEs via child/adolescent self‐report or proxy‐report. This qualitative study evaluates the child's/adolescent's understanding and ability to provide valid responses to the PRO‐CTCAE to inform questionnaire refinements and confirm content validity.

Procedure

From seven pediatric research hospitals, children/adolescents ages 7–15 years who were diagnosed with cancer and receiving treatment were eligible, along with their parent‐proxies. The Pediatric PRO‐CTCAE includes 130 questions that assess 62 symptomatic AEs capturing symptom frequency, severity, interference, or presence. Cognitive interviews with retrospective probing were completed with children in the age groups of 7–8, 9–12, and 13–15 years. The children/adolescents and proxies were interviewed independently.

Results

Two rounds of interviews involved 81 children and adolescents and 74 parent‐proxies. Fifteen of the 62 AE terms were revised after Round 1, including refinements to the questions assessing symptom severity. Most participants rated the PRO‐CTCAE AE items as “very easy” or “somewhat easy” and were able to read, understand, and provide valid responses to questions. A few AE items assessing rare events were challenging to understand.

Conclusions

The Pediatric and Proxy PRO‐CTCAE performed well among children and adolescents and their proxies, supporting its content validity. Data from PRO‐CTCAE may improve symptomatic AE reporting in clinical trials and enhance the quality of care that children receive.
Polypharmacy and risk of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Razavi Dan , Lindblad Mats , Bexelius Tomas , Oskarsson Viktor , Sadr‐Azodi Omid , Ljung Rickard
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Drug‐induced pancreatitis is receiving increased medical and epidemiological attention. However, as no study has examined the role of polypharmacy per se in the development of acute pancreatitis, we examined the association between polypharmacy and risk of acute pancreatitis.

Methods

A nationwide case–control study was conducted between 2006 and 2008 of Swedish people aged 40–84 years. The Swedish Patient Register was used to identify 6161 cases of first‐episode acute pancreatitis. The Swedish Register of the Total Population was used to randomly select 61 637 controls from the general population using frequency‐based density sampling, matched for age, sex, and calendar year. The Swedish Prescribed Drug Register was used to assess polypharmacy, defined as the number of unique drugs prescribed during the last 6 months before the index date (i.e. the date of acute pancreatitis for cases and a random date for controls). Odds ratios (ORs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), of acute pancreatitis were estimated by unconditional logistic regression, adjusted for matching variables and potential confounding factors.

Results

The number of prescribed drugs was associated with a dose‐dependent increase in the risk of acute pancreatitis. In the multivariable‐adjusted model, compared to those without any prescriptions, the OR was 1.69 (95%CI: 1.55–1.86) for persons with 1–2 drugs, 2.40 (2.20–2.62) for 3–5 drugs, 3.17 (2.88–3.48) for 6–9 drugs, and 4.57 (4.12–5.06) for 10 or more drugs.

Conclusion

This population‐based case–control study shows a dose‐dependent association between increasing polypharmacy and risk of acute pancreatitis. These findings provide further insights into drug‐induced pancreatitis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photolysis of 3,5‐diphenylisoxazole in argon matrices
Authors: Sriyarathne H. Dushanee M. , Sarkar Sujan K. , Hatano Sayaka , Abe Manabu , Gudmundsdottir Anna D.
Published: September 2016

Broadband irradiation of 3,5‐diphenylisoxazole 1 in an argon matrix results in formation of azirine 3. Further irradiation of the matrix reduces the amount of azirine 3 with concurrent formation of ylide 4. Thus, it is theorized that the conversion of isoxazole 1 to azirine 3 goes through a triplet vinylnitrene 2 that does not intersystem cross to ketenimine 6. Hence, the reactivity of triplet vinylnitrene 2 is different from similar vinylnitrene intermediates with α‐methyl substituents that intersystem cross to form corresponding ketenimines. Density functional theory calculations support the notion that the conjugation of the α‐phenyl group to the vinylnitrene moiety in vinylnitrene 2 renders it more flexible than vinylnitrenes with α‐methyl substituents, and therefore, vinylnitrene 2 intersystem crosses to azirine 3, rather than ketenimine 6. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new quinoxaline and isoindigo based polymer as donor material for solar cells: Role of ecofriendly processing solvents on the device efficiency and stability
Authors: Seri Mirko , Gedefaw Desta , Prosa Mario , Tessarolo Marta , Bolognesi Margherita , Muccini Michele , Andersson Mats R.
Published: September 2016

A new semiconducting polymer based on two different electron deficient (quinoxaline and isoindigo) and electron rich (benzodithiophene) moieties is synthesized, characterized and used as donor material for photovoltaic devices. Blade‐coated bulk heterojunction solar cells are fabricated in air by using chlorinated (o‐dichlorobenzene) and nonchlorinated (o‐xylene) solvents for the deposition of the active layer. The use of o‐xylene allows a ∼10% improvement of the device efficiency in comparison to the analogous system processed from o‐dichlorobenzene. In addition, the evolution of the photovoltaic parameters of the resulting devices during thermal stress is monitored and compared, demonstrating a nearly identical resistance against temperature. The reported results not only highlight the promising properties of the new polymer in terms of environmental stability and compatibility with nonhalogenated solvents, but also show an easy and ecofriendly way to further improve the device performance without altering the corresponding thermal stability. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 234–242
The psychosocial experiences of women with breast cancer across the lifespan: a systematic review
Authors: Campbell‐Enns Heather J. , Woodgate Roberta L.
Published: September 2016

Objective

To summarize the psychosocial experience of women with breast cancer from a lifespan perspective by examining the findings of qualitative studies.

Methods

A meta‐aggregate review of 24 qualitative studies was undertaken. To be included, studies must include women with a breast cancer diagnosis and focus on younger or older women (as defined by the study), or compare a psychosocial issue across the lifespan. Eight databases were searched systematically.

Results

Study participants ranged in age from 26 to 91 years. Sixteen studies focused on younger women, six focused on older women, and two included women across the lifespan. A total of 155 findings were extracted from the studies and were aggregated into 11 categories. These were synthesized into four synthesized findings: (a) dealing with cancer, (b) the importance of caring, (c) the aftermath of cancer, and (d) fertility and infertility.

Conclusions

Further research is required to explore these findings, and to examine the needs of older women in particular. Delineating the similarities and differences in the needs of women across the lifespan will inform the development of psychosocial interventions for all women with breast cancer.
Generalized Criteria of Volume Ignition for One‐Stage Exothermic Reations
Authors: Filimonov Valeriy Yu. , Koshelev Konstantin B.
Published: September 2016

A method of ignition conditions determination for any type of exothermic reaction is proposed. The method is based on the maximum temperatures equation for any kind of kinetic function, which was obtained using the integral equation for phase trajectories. In this case, the asymptotic ignition criterion is defined by the infinitely high sensitivity of maximum temperature to the change of parameters at the limit of ignition. Hence, the critical ignition conditions are determined by the presence of extreme points on the plane: parameter – maximal temperature. On the strength of these ideas, the universal algebraic set of equations for critical conditions calculation for arbitrary kinetic law of reaction product formation was obtained. The application of this method to calculation of the second order reactions allows to define the thermal explosion degeneration conditions and the regions of critical conditions existence. The maximum discrepancy between the results obtained with the results of numerical calculation does not exceed ten percent.
Human and server docking prediction for CAPRI round 30‐35 using LZerD with combined scoring functions
Authors: Peterson Lenna X. , Kim Hyungrae , Esquivel‐Rodriguez Juan , Roy Amitava , Han Xusi , Shin Woong‐Hee , Zhang Jian , Terashi Genki , Lee Matt , Kihara Daisuke
Published: September 2016

We report the performance of protein–protein docking predictions by our group for recent rounds of the Critical Assessment of Prediction of Interactions (CAPRI), a community‐wide assessment of state‐of‐the‐art docking methods. Our prediction procedure uses a protein–protein docking program named LZerD developed in our group. LZerD represents a protein surface with 3D Zernike descriptors (3DZD), which are based on a mathematical series expansion of a 3D function. The appropriate soft representation of protein surface with 3DZD makes the method more tolerant to conformational change of proteins upon docking, which adds an advantage for unbound docking. Docking was guided by interface residue prediction performed with BindML and cons‐PPISP as well as literature information when available. The generated docking models were ranked by a combination of scoring functions, including PRESCO, which evaluates the native‐likeness of residues' spatial environments in structure models. First, we discuss the overall performance of our group in the CAPRI prediction rounds and investigate the reasons for unsuccessful cases. Then, we examine the performance of several knowledge‐based scoring functions and their combinations for ranking docking models. It was found that the quality of a pool of docking models generated by LZerD, that is whether or not the pool includes near‐native models, can be predicted by the correlation of multiple scores. Although the current analysis used docking models generated by LZerD, findings on scoring functions are expected to be universally applicable to other docking methods. Proteins 2017; 85:513–527. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
New phosphors with strongly reduced content of critical raw materials for lighting applications
Authors: Chiriu Daniele , Stagi Luigi , Carbonaro Carlo Maria , Ricci Pier Carlo
Published: September 2016

Aluminium silicate crystal is proposed as new promising inert matrix as host of luminescent ions. In particular, we studied the luminescence properties of single doped and multi‐doped Al2SiO5 samples (doping elements: Ce, Tb, Cr, Fe, Zr) to explore their suitability as phosphors in modern lighting systems. The Al2SiO5 host matrix, obtained in nano‐sized crystals belonging to the high temperature phase known as sillimanite, allows to narrow down the presence of rare earth elements exclusively to the dopants, thus providing a promising solution to the critical raw material concern.

The crystals doped with Fe, Ce and Zr are mainly excited in the UV range, and they are good candidate as phosphors in compact fluorescent lamp systems. Terbium single doped samples are efficient phosphors in the green region with direct excitation in the deep UV region, but their excitation spectrum can be down‐shifted to near UV range in in co‐doped Ce:Tb samples. Indeed, thanks to the efficient energy transfer from cerium ions, the green emission from Tb ions can be excited by commercial AlGaN light emitting diode, suggesting Ce:Tb doped Al2SiO5 crystals as promising phosphors for green LED system. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Internal‐blackbody calibration (IBBC) approach and its operational application in FY‐2 meteorological satellites
Authors: Guo Qiang , Chen Fuchun , Chen Boyang , Feng Xuan , Yang Changjun , Wang Xin , Zhang Zhiqing
Published: September 2016

Fengyun‐2 (FY‐2) are the first‐generation geostationary meteorological satellites (GEOMS) in China, two of which, FY‐2E and FY‐2G, are the operating workforce to support the dual‐satellite observation mode. The on‐board blackbody preliminarily used for stability monitoring of the instrument's radiometric response was equipped behind its fore‐optics due to the technical limitations in the 1990s with what was referred to as an internal‐blackbody (IBB) and operated at a unique pre‐set temperature. In this article, a novel IBB calibration (IBBC) approach is proposed and the radiometric contributions of the main optical elements as well as the IBB itself are modelled and extracted. This is the most distinguishing difference from the traditional full‐path blackbody calibration. The IBBC software has been in service for more than 2 years. Compared with the high spectral resolution reference instruments recommended by the Global Space‐based Inter‐Calibration System, the monthly mean calibration biases of the long‐wave infrared band (IR1: 10.8 µm) and water vapour band (IR3: 6.95 µm) are shown to be lower than 1.5 K for FY‐2E and lower than 1.0 K for FY‐2G (for ∼90% of cases). In particular, the annual mean biases for the FY‐2G IR3 band can maintain a good state of 0.4 K, which is nearly identical to that of other high‐class in‐orbit satellites, e.g. MTSAT‐2 and MSG‐1. Likely impacted by ice contamination, the calibration biases of the long‐wave split‐window infrared band (IR2: 12 µm) of FY‐2G could be as large as −2.3 K and similar phenomena once occurred in GOES‐13 and MSG‐1. This is expected to improve in the near future. In general, the calibration accuracies of FY‐2G IR1 and IR3 bands have become lower than 1 K, which is significantly superior to those of other first‐generation GEOMS, such as GMS‐5, Meteosat‐7 and GOES 4‐7, whose calibration accuracies are around 2–3 K. The quality of the data could be greatly enhanced so as to benefit the global observation system.