bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc oxide 3Dmicrostructures as an antimicrobial filler content for composite resins
Authors: Dias Hércules Bezerra , Bernardi Maria Inês Basso , Ramos Matheus Aparecido dos Santos , Trevisan Tamara Carolina , Bauab Taís Maria , Hernandes Antônio Carlos , de Souza Rastelli Alessandra Nara
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of a composite resin modified by 3D zinc oxide (ZnO) microstructures and to verify possible alterations on its mechanical properties. ZnO was synthesized by hydrothermal approach and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), surface area by Brunauer, Emmett and Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The minimum inhibitory concentrations of ZnO againstStreptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, andCandida albicanswere determinated. The composite resin FiltekTMZ350XT (3M of Brazil) was blended with 0.2%, 0.5%, and 1% in weight of ZnO and submitted to antibacterial assay by direct contact test againstS. mutans, the leading cause of dental caries and the most cariogenic oral streptococci. Additionally, it was performed compressive and diametral tensile strength tests of the modified composite resin. Microrods and hollow microrods of ZnO were obtained and its MIC values were found to be 125 μg/mL forS. mutans, 500 μg/mL forC. albicansand 62.5 μg/mL forS. aureus. For the tested concentrations, it was not found MIC againstE. coli. The direct contact test showed a significant antibacterial capacity of modified composite resin (p > 0.05 for all concentrations). The compressive and diametral tensile strength remains no changed after inclusion of microparticles (p > 0.05 for all concentrations). The modification of the composite resin with small amounts of ZnO microparticles significantly inhibited theS. mutansgrowth on resin surface without significant alterations of its mechanical strength.
Sealing ability and adaptation of root‐end filling materials in cavities prepared with different techniques
Authors: Küçükkaya Eren Selen , Görduysus Mehmet Ömer , Şahin Cem
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sealing ability and marginal adaptation of calcium silicate‐based cements (CSCs) in root‐end cavities prepared by ultrasonic and laser tips. A total of 72 extracted human maxillary incisor teeth were randomly divided as 60 teeth in experimental groups and 6 teeth each for positive and negative control groups. Specimens in experimental groups were obturated, their root‐end resections were performed and randomly divided into six groups (n = 10) as follows: G1: Ultrasonic retrotip + MTA, G2: Ultrasonic retrotip + Calcium Enriched Mixture (CEM), G3: Ultrasonic retrotip + Biodentine, G4: Er:YAG laser tip + MTA, G5: Er:YAG laser tip + CEM, G6: Er:YAG laser tip + Biodentine. The sealing ability was measured by fluid transport method. Six specimens from each experimental group were randomly selected to analyze marginal adaptation and prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Micrographs were scored and also analyzed using Image J software. Data were analyzed with; two‐way ANOVA, Bonferroni, Kruskall–Wallis, Mann–Whitney‐U, Siegel & Castellan, and Spearman correlation coefficient tests. No significant difference was found between materials regarding the sealing ability and marginal adaptation (p > 0.05). Significantly greater fluid movement and poor marginal adaptation were seen for materials placed in cavities prepared by laser tips (p < 0.05). Positive correlation was found between the results of scoring and Image J analysis of SEM images (r = 0.596, p < 0.001). Fluid transport method and SEM analysis gave similar results suggesting the use of ultrasonic‐retrotips for preparing root‐end cavities which are going to be filled with one of these CSCs.
One‐pot Three‐component Synthesis of Furan‐based Heterocycles from Benzyl Halides
Authors: Beerappa Mallappa , Shivashankar Kalegowda
Published: March 2017

An efficient and a novel approach for the synthesis of furochromene and furopyran scaffolds are described. Benzyl halides undergo oxidation in Kornblum conditions to give the corresponding aldehydes, which in turn undergo [4 + 1] cycloaddition reaction with isocyanide to afford the corresponding furan derivatives. The significant attraction of this protocol is simple procedure, mild reaction condition, and good yield.
Convergent synthesis of a deuterium‐labeled serine dipeptide lipid for analysis of biological samples
Authors: Dietz Christopher , Clark Robert B. , Nichols Frank C. , Smith Michael B.
Published: March 2017

Bacterial serine dipeptide lipids are known to promote inflammatory processes and are detected in human tissues associated with periodontal disease or atherosclerosis. Accurate quantification of bacterial serine lipid, specifically lipid 654 [((S)‐15‐methyl‐3‐((13‐methyltetradecanoyl)oxy)hexadecanoyl)glycyl‐l‐serine, (3S)‐l‐serine] isolated from Porphyromonas gingivalis, in biological samples requires the preparation of a stable isotope internal standard for sample supplementation and subsequent mass spectrometric analysis. This report describes the convergent synthesis of a deuterium‐substituted serine dipeptide lipid, which is an isotopically labeled homologue that represents a dominant form of serine dipeptide lipid recovered in bacteria.
The synthesis of [14C]4‐acetylphenylalanine, effect on cell viability, and assessment of protein incorporation in male rat hepatocytes
Authors: Maxwell Brad D. , Ly Van , Brock Barry , Dodge Robert , Tirmenstein Mark , Calvano Jacqueline
Published: March 2017

PEGylation is a proven approach to prolonging the duration of action and enhancing biophysical solubility and stability of peptides. 4‐Acetylphenylalanine is a novel amino acid with a ketone side chain that is uniquely reactive in proteins. The ketone functionality can react with an aminooxy functionalized polyethyleneglycol polymer to form a stable oxime adduct of the protein. One concern with using unnatural amino acids, such as 4‐acetylphenylalanine, is the possibility of it being cleaved from the peptide and becoming incorporated into endogenous proteins. To determine whether this occurs, an in vitro experiment to assess the cell viability and amino acid incorporation into endogenous proteins using primary male rat hepatocytes in the presence of [14C]4‐acetylphenylalanine, 4 or [14C(U)]L‐phenylalanine was conducted. [14C]4‐acetylphenylalanine, 4 was prepared in 2 radiochemical steps from [1‐14C]acetyl chloride in an overall 8% radiochemical yield and in 99.9% radiochemical purity. The results showed that there was no evidence of carbon‐14 incorporation into hepatocyte endogenous proteins with [14C]pAcF and there was no difference between it and L‐phenylalanine in cell viability assessments at any of the concentrations studied between 0.1 and 1000 μM.
Bioprospection of cold‐adapted yeasts with biotechnological potential from Antarctica
Authors: Martorell María Martha , Ruberto Lucas Adolfo Mauro , Fernández Pablo Marcelo , Castellanos de Figueroa Lucía Inés , Mac Cormack Walter Patricio
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate the ability to produce extracellular hydrolytic enzymes at low temperature of yeasts isolated from 25 de Mayo island, Antarctica, and to identify those exhibiting one or more of the evaluated enzymatic activities. A total of 105 yeast isolates were obtained from different samples and 66 were identified. They belonged to 12 basidiomycetous and four ascomycetous genera. Most of the isolates were ascribed to the genera Cryptococcus, Mrakia, Cystobasidium, Rhodotorula, Gueomyces, Phenoliferia, Leucosporidium, and Pichia. Results from enzymes production at low temperatures revealed that the Antarctic environment contains metabolically diverse cultivable yeasts, which represent potential tools for biotechnological applications. While most the isolates proved to produce 2‐4 of the investigated exoenzymes, two of them evidenced the six evaluated enzymatic activities: Pichia caribbica and Guehomyces pullulans, which were characterized as psycrotolerant and psycrophilic, respectively. In addition, P. caribbica could assimilate several n‐alkanes and diesel fuel. The enzyme production profile and hydrocarbons assimilation capacity, combined with its high level of biomass production and the extended exponential growth phase make P. caribbica a promising tool for cold environments biotechnological purposes in the field of cold‐enzymes production and oil spills bioremediation as well.
Estimating soil carbon dynamics in intercrop and sole crop agroecosystems using the Century model
Authors: Oelbermann Maren , Echarte Laura , Marroquin Lisa , Morgan Svenja , Regehr Alison , Vachon Karen E. , Wilton Meaghan
Published: March 2017

Using process‐based models to predict changes in carbon (C) stocks enhances our knowledge on the long‐term dynamics of soil organic carbon (SOC) in various land management systems. The objective of this study was to apply the Century model to evaluate temporal SOC dynamics in two temperate intercrop systems [1:2 (one row of maize and two rows of soybeans); 2:3 intercrop (two rows of maize and three rows of soybean)] and in a maize and soybean sole crop. Upon initiation of intercropping, SOC increased by 47% after ≈ 100 years, whereas SOC in the maize sole crop increased by 21% and 2% in the soybean sole crop. The quantity of crop residue input was sufficient to increase the active (turnover time of months to years) SOC fraction in the intercrops and the maize sole crop, but not in the soybean sole crop. The slow fraction, with a turnover time of 20 to 50 years, increased in all crop systems and was the major driver of SOC accumulation. A 3 to 15% loss of SOC from the passive fraction, with a turnover time of 400 to 2000 years, in all crop systems showed the long‐term impact of land‐use conversion from historically undisturbed native grasslands to intensive agricultural production systems. This study provided an example of the potential of process‐based models like Century to illustrate possible effects of cereal–legume intercropping on SOC dynamics and that the model was able to predict SOC stocks within –7 to +4% of measured values. We conclude, however that further fine‐tuning of the model for application to cereal–legume intercrop systems is required in order to strengthen the relationship between measured and simulated values.
The Amplification of Common Somatic Symptoms by Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Firefighters
Authors: Milligan‐Saville Josie S. , Paterson Helen M. , Harkness Emily L. , Marsh Annabel M. , Dobson Mark , Kemp Richard I. , Bryant Richard A. , Harvey Samuel B.
Published: March 2017

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in emergency service personnel and other trauma‐exposed populations is known to be associated with a variety of physical health problems. However, little attention has been paid to the health of ageing emergency service personnel, who may be forced into early medical retirement because of a combination of these issues. Currently employed (N = 274) Australian firefighters completed a cross‐sectional survey using validated, self‐report measures of PTSD and somatic symptoms. Analyses examined the association between probable PTSD and a range of common somatic symptoms, and whether any association differed depending on the age of the firefighters. Firefighters with PTSD reported greater levels of neurological (p = .024), gastrointestinal (p = .015), and cardiorespiratory (p = .027) symptoms compared to those without PTSD. After adjusting for sex, age, and rank, linear regression analysis demonstrated that PTSD was significantly associated with increased total somatic symptom severity (p = .024), with PTSD accounting for 9.8% of the variance in levels of somatic symptoms. There was no interaction between age and the association between PTSD and somatic symptom severity. These results suggest that PTSD is associated with a significant increase in a wide range of somatic symptoms among firefighters, regardless of age. The implications for the identification and treatment of PTSD are discussed.
Sleep‐Disordered Breathing Impact on Efficacy of Prolonged Exposure Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Reist Christopher , Gory Andrea , Hollifield Michael
Published: March 2017

There is growing evidence that sleep disturbances may impede the utility of existing therapeutic interventions for people with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This retrospective medical record review examined the hypothesis that sleep disturbance affects the outcome of prolonged exposure (PE) therapy for PTSD. We identified 18 combat veterans with PTSD who had completed PE therapy. There were 6 subjects who had sleep‐disordered breathing, 5 of whom were documented by sleep polysomnography. All subjects in the sleep‐disordered group took part in a minimum of 10 sessions; the mean number of sessions was comparable between the sleep‐disordered group and the group without a sleep disorder. Posttreatment PTSD Checklist scores were significantly reduced in those without a sleep disorder (−28.25; 58.0% reduction, F(1, 11) = 59.04, p < .001), but were not reduced in those with sleep‐disordered breathing (−7.17; 13.5% reduction, dIGPP = 2.25 [independent groups pretest‐posttest design]). These observations supported the hypothesis that the efficacy of PE therapy is affected by sleep quality. If these findings are replicated, treatment algorithms may need to incorporate the presence or absence of sleep disorders as a factor in treatment choice.
Anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy in awake transcervical injection laryngoplasty
Authors: Dang Jennifer H. , Liou Nelson Eddie , Ongkasuwan Julina
Published: March 2017

Objective

Vocal fold movement impairment (VFMI) due to neuronal injury occurs in 20% to 30% of surgeries in the region of the aortic arch. Early injection laryngoplasty can aid with postoperative pulmonary toilet in these high‐risk cardiovascular patients. The purpose of this study is to determine whether continuing antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy during awake transcervical injection laryngoplasty surgery is safe, and if there is any increase in bleeding complications in these patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of patients undergoing awake injection laryngoplasty surgery for VFMI between 2013 and 2016 at a tertiary academic center specializing in aortic and mediastinal diseases. Records were reviewed for patients regarding baseline antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy, and whether these medications were stopped or continued preoperatively. The primary outcome was bleeding complications.

Results

Of the 95 surgeries reviewed, 44 (46%) were performed for patients on antiplatelet therapy, and 71 (75%) for patients on anticoagulation therapy. None of the patients on antiplatelet therapy had their treatment discontinued. Of the patients on anticoagulation, 13 (16.4%) had their therapy held prior to surgery. There was no observed difference in bleeding complications between patients who were continued on antiplatelet or anticoagulation treatment versus those whose therapy was withheld.

Conclusion

These results suggest that patients undergoing awake transcervical injection laryngoplasty for VFMI can be maintained on antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy without increased risk of bleeding. Further larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:1850–1854, 2017
Utility of nasal swab and age in detecting methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in pediatric head and neck abscesses
Authors: Bradford Benjamin D. , Macias David , Liu Yuan F. , Inman Jared C. , Dyleski Robin A.
Published: March 2017

Objective

To identify risk factors associated with the presence of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in surgical cultures taken from incision and drainage (I&D) of head and neck abscesses in the pediatric population.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

All patients under 18 years of age with a head and neck abscess requiring I&D from 2009 to 2015 were reviewed. MRSA nasal swab cultures were taken from all patients upon hospitalization. Surgical cultures were obtained from all patients and correlated with MRSA nasal swab results. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was performed, and odds ratios (ORs) along with descriptive statistics were analyzed.

Results

Of a total of 272 patients, there were 68 (25%) MRSA‐positive abscesses. The majority (86.8%) of these abscesses were in children under 2 years of age. Overall, 12 (4.4%) presented with positive admission MRSA nasal swabs. Of these, 91.7% had MRSA‐positive abscess cultures. Decreasing age in years showed an OR of 1.650 (P < 0.001) for MRSA‐positive abscess, with children less than 1 year old having the highest OR of 10.74 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Younger age and MRSA nasal colonization were two statistically significant risk factors for developing an MRSA abscess of the head and neck. This study demonstrates a high positive predictive value for MRSA‐positive neck abscesses when nasal swab screenings were MRSA‐positive (91.7%). Children under 2 years of age—especially those under 1 year of age—or those with MRSA nasal colonization can be considered a high‐risk population that may benefit from empiric antibiotics against MRSA for head and neck abscesses.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:2407–2412, 2017
Endoscopic anterior–posterior cricoid split for pediatric bilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Rutter Michael J. , Hart Catherine K. , Alarcon Alessandro de , Daniel Sam J. , Parikh Sanjay R. , Balakrishnan Karthik , Lam Derek , Johnson Kaalan , Sidell Douglas R.
Published: March 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Children with bilateral true vocal fold immobility (BTVFI) may present with significant airway distress necessitating tracheostomy. The objective of this study was to review our preliminary experience with the anterior–posterior cricoid split (APCS), an endoscopic intervention used as an alternative to tracheostomy in children with BTVFI.

Study Design

Multicenter review.

Methods

A review of patients undergoing endoscopic APCS for BTVFI at four institutions was performed. Patients were evaluated for the ability to ventilate without the requirement for tracheostomy or reintubation. Additional data extracted included the duration of intubation following APCS, the requirement for additional procedures, and demographics. Surgical success was defined as the ability to avoid tracheostomy and to cap or decannulate without respiratory symptoms if a tracheostomy was present prior to APCS.

Results

Nineteen APCS procedures were performed between October 2010 and June 2016. There were 12 male patients, the mean age at APCS was 4.7 months. BTVFI was primarily idiopathic (58%) and associated with other comorbidities (74%). All patients were candidates for tracheostomy prior to APCS. Fourteen patients (74%) were considered surgical successes. Of the unsuccessful patients, three (66%) required tracheostomy following APCS, and one was treated with a posterior cartilage graft. There was one nonsurgical mortality greater than 2 months after APCS and thought to be unrelated to the airway.

Conclusions

Endoscopic APCS appears to be a safe and effective intervention for pediatric BTVFI. Under the correct circumstances, this can be performed as a single procedure, obviating tracheostomy. Further study is warranted.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:257–263, 2018
Topology induced anomalous plasmon modes in metallic Möbius nanorings
Authors: Yin Yin , Li Shilong , Engemaier Vivienne , Saei Ghareh Naz Ehsan , Giudicatti Silvia , Ma Libo , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: March 2017

We report on the theoretical investigation of plasmonic resonances in metallic Möbius nanorings. Half‐integer numbers of resonant modes are observed due to the presence of an extra phase π provided by the topology of the Möbius nanostrip. Anomalous plasmon modes located at the non‐orientable surface of the Möbius nanoring break the symmetry that exist in conventional ring cavities, thus enable far‐field excitation and emission as bright modes. The far‐field resonant wavelength as well as the feature of half‐integer mode numbers is constant to the change of charge distribution on the Möbius nanoring due to the topology of Möbius ring. Owing to the ultra‐small mode volume induced by the remaining dark feature, an extremely high sensitivity as well as a remarkable figure of merit is obtained in our numerical calculations for sensing performance. The topological metallic nanostructure provides a novel platform for the investigation of localized surface plasmon modes exhibiting unique phenomena for potential plasmonic applications.

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Aldosterone activates the oncogenic signals ERK1/2 and STAT3 via redox‐regulated mechanisms
Authors: Queisser Nina , Schupp Nicole , Schwarz Eva , Hartmann Christina , Mackenzie Gerardo G. , Oteiza Patricia I.
Published: March 2017

Epidemiological studies found an increased risk for kidney cancer in hypertensive patients, of which a subgroup has high aldosterone (Ald) levels. We recently showed that Ald is genotoxic both in kidney tubular cells and in rats with mineralocorticoid‐mediated hypertension. The present work investigated in vitro and in vivo, if the oxidative stress‐mediated activation of the ERK1/2 pathway, and its downstream target STAT3, could be one mechanism involved in the potential oncogenic capability of excess Ald exposure. The effects of excess Ald were investigated in LLC‐PK1 cells and in Ald‐induced hypertensive rats. Ald caused cRaf, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation both in LLC‐PK1 cells and in rat kidneys. ERK1/2 activation led to an increased phosphorylation of MSK1, p90RSK, and STAT3. The involvement of ERK1/2 in the activation of STAT3 was evidenced by the capacity of the MEK inhibitor U0126 to prevent Ald‐mediated ERK1/2 and STAT3 phosphorylation. Both in vitro and in vivo, the activation of ERK1/2 and STAT3 by Ald was dependent on the mineralocorticoid receptor and was triggered by an increase in cellular oxidants. Ald‐mediated oxidant increase was in part due to the activation of the enzymes NADPH oxidase and NO synthase. Proliferation was significantly enhanced and apoptosis decreased in Ald‐treated rat kidneys and/or LLC‐PK1 cells. Results support the concept that the oxidant‐mediated long‐term activation of ERK1/2/STAT3 by persistently high Ald levels could trigger proliferative and prosurvival events. Ald‐mediated promotion of cell survival and DNA damage could result in kidney cell transformation and initiation of cancer in hypertensive patients with hyperaldosteronism.
Estimating the occurrence and severity of hail based on 10 years of observations from weather radar in Belgium
Authors: Lukach M. , Foresti L. , Giot O. , Delobbe L.
Published: March 2017

The goal of the present study was to exploit the volumetric data from the Wideumont weather radar to estimate the occurrence and severity of hail over a period of 10 years (2003–2012). The radar is located in the southeastern part of Belgium and its domain covers Belgium, Luxembourg and some parts of Germany, France and The Netherlands. Two hail detection algorithms were used for detecting hail falls in the volumetric radar data. The algorithms provide an empirical estimation of the probability of hail (POH) and the probability of severe hail (POSH). The study shows that post‐processing of probabilities by means of the advection correction significantly influences the statistical results about hail occurrence. The advection correction is very effective in reducing the ‘fishbone effect’ due to a temporal sampling of the radar data that is too low, which has an impact on the geographical distribution of the hail fall frequencies over the study domain. The post‐processed POH and POSH datasets are verified against hail reports at the ground. The statistics obtained show that the diurnal cycle of hail falls has a pronounced peak in the 1500–1600 UTC (local solar time + 1 h) time interval with 28% of all hail events occurring in July and 30% of severe hail events occurring in May. Nevertheless, severe hail events have a low occurrence in absolute terms and longer time series of observations are required to obtain a more reliable severe hail climatology.
Multifactorial study and kinetics of signal development in ferrous–methylthymol blue–gelatin gel dosimeters
Authors: Penev Kalin I. , Mequanint Kibret
Published: March 2017

Purpose

To develop and characterize a ferrous–methylthymol blue–gelatin gel dosimeter with low optical background and appropriate additives for reduced rate of auto‐oxidation and diffusion.

Methods

A mixed‐level multifactorial design of experiments was used to test the effects of the concentrations of sulfuric acid, 5‐nitro‐1,10‐phenanthroline (Nn), and glyoxal (Gx) on the background absorbance, dose sensitivity, and auto‐oxidation of the tested gel dosimeter. The dosimetric properties of the proposed ferrous–methylthymol blue–gelatin dosimeter, doped with Nn and Gx, were compared with the undoped formulation and with ferrous–xylenol orange–gelatin gel dosimeters. Irradiations were performed in both small‐scale cuvette samples and large 400‐mL bulk samples. In addition to that, a new kinetic model for the signal development postirradiation was derived based on chemical principles and used for comparison of the different formulations.

Results

The new formulation showed a reduced auto‐oxidation rate, while maintaining low background absorbance relative to the common ferrous–xylenol orange–gelatin gel dosimeter. Compared with undoped ferrous–xylenol orange or ferrous–methylthymol blue gels, the dose sensitivity of the new formulation is approximately 2 to 3 times lower, but remains clinically adequate. A previously unreported dose rate dependence of the dose sensitivity was observed, and a new kinetic model for the signal development postirradiation was used to investigate this effect. Similar dose rate dependences in gels containing either methylthymol blue or xylenol orange, with or without doping with Nn and Gx, were observed, suggesting that the low ferrous ammonium sulfate concentrations used in studied formulations were responsible for this effect.

Conclusions

A multifactorial design of experiments and a new kinetic model for the signal development postirradiation were successfully employed to optimize the composition and characterize the properties of a new ferrous–methylthymol blue–gelatin gel dosimeter doped with 5‐nitro‐1,10‐phenanthroline and glyoxal. Concrete recommendations were provided for precise dosimetry using the new formulation.
A phantom study: Should 124I‐mIBG PET/CT replace 123I‐mIBG SPECT/CT?
Authors: Beijst Casper , de Keizer Bart , Lam Marnix G.E.H. , Janssens Geert O. , Tytgat Godelieve A.M. , de Jong Hugo W.A.M.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The isotope 123I is commonly labeled with meta‐iodobenzylguanidine (mIBG) for imaging of neuroendocrine tumors, such as pheochromocytomas and neuroblastomas. 123I‐mIBG SPECT/CT imaging is performed for staging, follow‐up and selection of patients for treatment with 131I mIBG. As an alternative to 123I, 124I‐mIBG PET/CT may be used, potentially taking advantage of the superior PET image quality. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether 124I PET/CT improves image quality as compared with 123I SPECT/CT for equal patient effective radiation dose (in mSv).

Methods

Phantom measurements were performed using the NEMA‐2007 image quality phantom. SPECT and PET reconstruction settings were used with and without time‐of‐flight (TOF) and point‐spread‐function (PSF) modeling. As a measure of image quality, the contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) was calculated. The ratio of the 123I to 124I activity concentration was determined at which the contrast‐to‐noise ratio was equal for both modalities. This metric was defined as the contrast equivalent activity ratio (CEAR).

Results

CEARs of 47.7, 25.6, 23.1, 14.6, 10.0, and 9.1 were obtained for a TOF and PSF modeled 124I reconstruction method and an attenuation and scatter‐corrected 123I reconstruction method for sphere sizes of 10 to 37 mm, respectively. As the effective radiation dose of 124I‐mIBG is higher than of 123I‐mIBG (in mSv/MBq), an equal effective dose corresponds to a CEAR of 5 to 10. Therefore, CEARs higher than 5 to 10 indicate that 124I PET/CT outperforms 123I SPECT/CT in the sense of image quality for equal patient effective radiation dose.

Conclusion

The CEAR is much larger than a factor of 5 to 10 (needed for equal patient effective radiation dose) for most of the reconstruction methods and sphere sizes. Therefore, 124I‐mIBG PET/CT is expected to improve image quality and/or may be used to reduce effective patient dose as compared with 123I‐mIBG SPECT/CT.
Substance dependence among those without symptoms of substance abuse in the World Mental Health Survey
Authors: Lago Luise , Glantz Meyer D. , Kessler Ronald C. , Sampson Nancy A. , Al‐Hamzawi Ali , Florescu Silvia , Moskalewicz Jacek , Murphy Sam , Navarro‐Mateu Fernando , Torres de Galvis Yolanda , Viana Maria Carmen , Xavier Miguel , Degenhardt Louisa
Published: March 2017

The World Health Organization (WHO) World Mental Health (WMH) Survey Initiative uses the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). The first 13 surveys only assessed substance dependence among respondents with a history of substance abuse; later surveys also assessed substance dependence without symptoms of abuse. We compared results across the two sets of surveys to assess implications of the revised logic and develop an imputation model for missing values of lifetime dependence in the earlier surveys. Lifetime dependence without symptoms of abuse was low in the second set of surveys (0.3% alcohol, 0.2% drugs). Regression‐based imputation models were built in random half‐samples of the new surveys and validated in the other half. There were minimal differences for imputed and actual reported cases in the validation dataset for age, gender and quantity; more mental disorders and days out of role were found in the imputed cases. Concordance between imputed and observed dependence cases in the full sample was high for alcohol [sensitivity 88.0%, specificity 99.8%, total classification accuracy (TCA) 99.5%, area under the curve (AUC) 0.94] and drug dependence (sensitivity 100.0%, specificity 99.8%, TCA 99.8%, AUC 1.00). This provides cross‐national evidence of the small degree to which lifetime dependence occurs without symptoms of abuse. Imputation of substance dependence in the earlier WMH surveys improved estimates of dependence.
Inhibition of prostate cancer proliferation by Deferiprone
Authors: Simões Rui V. , Veeraperumal Suresh , Serganova Inna S. , Kruchevsky Natalia , Varshavsky Joseph , Blasberg Ronald G. , Ackerstaff Ellen , Koutcher Jason A.
Published: March 2017

Cancer growth and proliferation rely on intracellular iron availability. We studied the effects of Deferiprone (DFP), a chelator of intracellular iron, on three prostate cancer cell lines: murine, metastatic TRAMP‐C2; murine, non‐metastatic Myc‐CaP; and human, non‐metastatic 22rv1. The effects of DFP were evaluated at different cellular levels: cell culture proliferation and migration; metabolism of live cells (time‐course multi‐nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy cell perfusion studies, with 1‐13C‐glucose, and extracellular flux analysis); and expression (Western blot) and activity of mitochondrial aconitase, an iron‐dependent enzyme. The 50% and 90% inhibitory concentrations (IC50 and IC90, respectively) of DFP for the three cell lines after 48 h of incubation were within the ranges 51–67 μM and 81–186 μM, respectively. Exposure to 100 μM DFP led to: (i) significant inhibition of cell migration after different exposure times, ranging from 12 h (TRAMP‐C2) to 48 h (22rv1), in agreement with the respective cell doubling times; (ii) significantly decreased glucose consumption and glucose‐driven tricarboxylic acid cycle activity in metastatic TRAMP‐C2 cells, during the first 10 h of exposure, and impaired cellular bioenergetics and membrane phospholipid turnover after 23 h of exposure, consistent with a cytostatic effect of DFP. At this time point, all cell lines studied showed: (iii) significant decreases in mitochondrial functional parameters associated with the oxygen consumption rate, and (iv) significantly lower mitochondrial aconitase expression and activity. Our results indicate the potential of DFP to inhibit prostate cancer proliferation at clinically relevant doses and plasma concentrations.
Hyperpolarized δ‐[1‐13C]gluconolactone as a probe of the pentose phosphate pathway
Authors: Moreno Karlos X. , Harrison Crystal E. , Merritt Matthew E. , Kovacs Zoltan , Malloy Craig R. , Sherry A. Dean
Published: March 2017

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is thought to be upregulated in trauma (to produce excess NADPH) and in cancer (to provide ribose for nucleotide biosynthesis), but simple methods for detecting changes in flux through this pathway are not available. MRI of hyperpolarized 13C–enriched metabolites offers considerable potential as a rapid, non‐invasive tool for detecting changes in metabolic fluxes. In this study, hyperpolarized δ‐[1‐13C]gluconolactone was used as a probe to detect flux through the oxidative portion of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPPox) in isolated perfused mouse livers. The appearance of hyperpolarized (HP) H13CO3− within seconds after exposure of livers to HP‐δ‐[1‐13C]gluconolactone demonstrates that this probe rapidly enters hepatocytes, becomes phosphorylated, and enters the PPPox pathway to produce HP‐H13CO3− after three enzyme catalyzed steps (6P–gluconolactonase, 6‐phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, and carbonic anhydrase). Livers perfused with octanoate as their sole energy source show no change in production of H13CO3− after exposure to low levels of H2O2, while livers perfused with glucose and insulin showed a twofold increase in H13CO3− after exposure to peroxide. This indicates that flux through the PPPox is stimulated by H2O2 in glucose perfused livers but not in livers perfused with octanoate alone. Subsequent perfusion of livers with non‐polarized [1,2‐13C]glucose followed by 1H NMR analysis of lactate in the perfusate verified that flux through the PPPox is indeed low in healthy livers and modestly higher in peroxide damaged livers. We conclude that hyperpolarized δ‐[1‐13C]gluconolactone has the potential to serve as a metabolic imaging probe of this important biological pathway.
CEST imaging of fast exchanging amine pools with corrections for competing effects at 9.4 T
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Yong , Wang Feng , Li Hua , Xu Junzhong , Gochberg Daniel F. , Gore John C. , Zu Zhongliang
Published: March 2017

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging of fast exchanging amine protons at 3 ppm offset from the water resonant frequency is of practical interest, but quantification of fast exchanging pools by CEST is challenging. To effectively saturate fast exchanging protons, high irradiation powers need to be applied, but these may cause significant direct water saturation as well as non‐specific semi‐solid magnetization transfer (MT) effects, and thus decrease the specificity of the measured signal. In addition, the CEST signal may depend on the water longitudinal relaxation time (T1w), which likely varies between tissues and with pathology, further reducing specificity. Previously, an analysis of the asymmetry of saturation effects (MTRasym) has been commonly used to quantify fast exchanging amine CEST signals. However, our results show that MTRasym is greatly affected by the above factors, as well as asymmetric MT and nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) effects. Here, we instead applied a relatively more specific inverse analysis method, named AREX (apparent exchange‐dependent relaxation), that has previously been applied only to slow and intermediate exchanging solutes. Numerical simulations and controlled phantom experiments show that, although MTRasym depends on T1w and semi‐solid content, AREX acquired in steady state does not, which suggests that AREX is more specific than MTRasym. By combining with a fitting approach instead of using the asymmetric analysis to obtain reference signals, AREX can also avoid contaminations from asymmetric MT and NOE effects. Animal experiments show that these two quantification methods produce differing contrasts between tumors and contralateral normal tissues in rat brain tumor models, suggesting that conventional MTRasym applied in vivo may be influenced by variations in T1w, semi‐solid content, or NOE effect. Thus, the use of MTRasym may lead to misinterpretation, while AREX with corrections for competing effects likely enhances the specificity and accuracy of quantification to fast exchanging pools.
Team‐based approach to identify cardiac toxicity in critically ill hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Dandoy Christopher E. , Jodele Sonata , Paff Zachary , Hirsch Russel , Ryan Thomas D. , Jefferies John L. , Cash Michelle , Rotz Seth , Pate Abigail , Taylor Michael D. , El‐Bietar Javier , Myers Kasiani C. , Wallace Gregory , Nelson Adam , Grimley Michael , Pfeiffer Thomas , Lane Adam , Davies Stella M. , Chima Ranjit S.
Published: March 2017

Introduction

We observed pulmonary hypertension (PH), pericardial effusions, and left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) in multiple critically ill hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. We implemented routine structured echocardiography screening for HSCT recipients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) using a standardized multidisciplinary process.

Methods

HSCT recipients admitted to the PICU with respiratory distress, hypoxia, shock, and complications related to transplant‐associated thrombotic microangiopathy were screened on admission and every 1–2 weeks thereafter. Echocardiography findings requiring intervention and/or further screening included elevated right ventricular pressure, LVSD, and moderate to large pericardial effusions. All echocardiograms were compared to the patient's routine pretransplant echocardiogram.

Results

Seventy HSCT recipients required echocardiography screening over a 3‐year period. Echo abnormalities requiring intervention and/or further screening were found in 35 (50%) patients. Twenty‐four (34%) patients were noted to have elevated right ventricular pressure; 14 (20%) were at risk for PH, while 10 (14%) had PH. All patients with PH were treated with pulmonary vasodilators. LVSD was noted in 22 (31%) patients; 15/22 (68%) received inotropic support. Moderate to large pericardial effusions were present in nine (13%) patients, with six needing pericardial drain placement.

Discussion

Echocardiographic abnormalities are common in critically ill HSCT recipients. Utilization of echocardiogram screening may allow for early detection and timely intervention for cardiac complications in this high‐risk cohort.
A full factorial‐based desirability function approach to investigate optimal mixture ratio of polymer concrete
Authors: Şimşek Barış , Uygunoğlu Tayfun
Published: March 2017

Polymers in concrete are preferred because they provide thermal insulation in terms of providing energy saving and water resistance and also they reduce the compressive strength of the concrete. Reaching the desired level of heat insulation on an acceptable level of compressive strength has been achieved by the multiresponse optimization methods. In this study, thermal, workability, and mechanical properties of polymer, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, polycarbonate, and polybutylene terephthalate mixed concrete, were analyzed and optimized with the use of full factorial design‐based desirability function approach via Minitab® version 15. The results show that polycarbonate is the most attractive polymer to produce polymer concrete, which includes low thermal conductivity. The results also show that thermoplastic polyurethane has positively effect on 28‐day splitting tensile strength. In contrast, thermoplastic polyurethane and polycarbonate have a significant effect in reducing the percentage of water absorption. These materials could be used in application, which requires water resistance. It was concluded that experimental designs, which take into account of interaction effects, such as full factorial design, should be used to determine on the optimal mixture parameters of polymer concrete. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:3199–3211, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Alginate gelling process: Use of bivalent ions rich microspheres
Authors: Vicini Silvia , Mauri Marco , Wichert Joanna , Castellano Maila
Published: March 2017

A new approach for obtaining a controlled gelling process of sodium alginate, based on the use of bivalent ions rich alginate microbeads added as crosslinkers, is presented. Normally, calcium ions are used in the gelation of alginate solutions. In this article, alginate microspheres, obtained by electrospray, and enriched with different bivalent ions (Ca2+, Ba2+, and Mg2+) are described. Because of the solvent/non‐solvent system, it is possible to use also Mg2+ as a crosslinker for alginate, despite the fact that it had long been regarded as a nongelling bivalent ion. The morphology and the ions content of the microspheres are evaluated. Gels are characterized according to type and amount of the ions added to the alginate solution, using rheological measurements to assess the variation in the storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″). The gel point is then detected using magnesium ions. The new approach guarantees a working system that could be easily applied in different fields. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 57:531–536, 2017. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of Polymerizable Photoinitiators on the UV‐polymerization behaviors of photosensitive polysiloxane
Authors: Jiang Bo , Zhang Tong , Zhao Liwei , Xu Zhiming , Huang Yudong
Published: March 2017

In this contribution, three polymerizable benzophenone photoinitiators containing maleimide group including 4‐maleimidebenzophenone (MBP), 4‐chlorine‐4′‐maleimide benzophenone (CMBP), and 4‐maleimide‐4′‐[(4‐maleimide)thiophenyl]benzophenone (MMTBP) were designed and synthesized to enhance the polymerization degree of photosensitive polysiloxane containing methacryloxy active groups (MAPSO). The polymerization behaviors of the MAPSO cured by different photoinitiators were investigated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). It was noted that the MAPSO initiated by MMTBP showed a high carbon–carbon double bond conversion above 80% because of the existence of thiophenyl group which could generate more radicals from the photolysis reaction at the CS bond. In addition, the thermal stability of the UV‐cured MAPSO were studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), the result showed that the initial 5% mass loss (T5%) and residual weight percent at 800 °C in nitrogen of the UV‐cured MAPSO initiated by MMTBP systems was 200 °C and 33.8%. Thus, this work provides a new perspective and efficient strategy to improve the polymerization degree of UV‐curable polysiloxanes with carbon–carbon double bonds. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 1696–1705
Microtextural Inheritance on Quartz Sand Grains from Pleistocene Periglacial Environments of the Mazovian Lowland, Central Poland
Authors: Kalińska‐Nartiša Edyta , Woronko Barbara , Ning Wenxin
Published: March 2017

Sand grains from Quaternary glacial, aeolian and fluvial deposits in the Mazovian Lowland, central Poland, were examined to characterize the effects of different Quaternary processes on sand‐grain surfaces that experienced repeated cycles of intense polar‐desert‐like conditions during the Middle and Late Pleistocene. A cold, dry and windy periglacial environment prevailed here at least twice between the Saalian (Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 6) and Holocene (MIS 1) stages. Because the surface characteristics of quartz sand grains can provide important palaeoenvironmental information, we examined grains extracted from sediment samples in different landforms to determine their surficial features from scanning electron microscope images. The grain surfaces were dominated by microtextures characteristic of aeolian‐induced grain transformation, indicated by a high percentage of well‐rounded, low‐relief‐worn grains with dish‐shaped depressions, bulbous edges and upturned plates. Although remnants of previous sedimentary cycles were occasionally observed, aeolian effects were dominant even in glacial and fluvial settings. Quartz microtextures indicated that none of the examined grains represented their original setting, but rather suggested remobilisation under periglacial conditions. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
N‐Glycan matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging protocol for formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues
Authors: Briggs Matthew T. , Ho Yin Ying , Kaur Gurjeet , Oehler Martin K. , Everest‐Dass Arun V. , Packer Nicolle H. , Hoffmann Peter
Published: March 2017

Rationale

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI) of the proteome of a tissue has been an established technique for the past decade. In the last few years, MALDI‐MSI of the N‐glycome has emerged as a novel MALDI‐MSI technique. To assess the accuracy and clinical significance of the N‐linked glycan spatial distribution, we have developed a method that utilises MALDI‐MSI followed by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) in order to assign glycan structures to the differentiating MALDI‐MSI glycan masses released from the tissue glycoproteins.

Methods and Results

Our workflow presents a comprehensive list of instructions on how to (i) apply MALDI‐MSI to spatially map the N‐glycome across formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) clinical samples, (ii) structurally characterise N‐glycans extracted from consecutive FFPE tissue sections by LC/MS/MS, and (iii) match relevant N‐glycan masses from MALDI‐MSI with confirmed N‐glycan structures determined by LC/MS/MS.

Conclusions

Our protocol provides groups that are new to this technique with instructions how to establish N‐glycan MALDI‐MSI in their laboratory. Furthermore, the method assigns N‐glycan structural detail to the masses obtained in the MALDI‐MS image. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
It's better to be lucky … successful management of an acute endobronchial tumour embolism in the ICU: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Walsh Christopher J. , Olivenstein Ron , Forget Eric , Gonzalez Anne V.
Published: March 2017

Endobronchial tumour embolism is a rare cause of acute central airway obstruction. It is primarily reported during pneumonectomy, and the outcome is frequently fatal. Successful management requires the urgent removal of tumour with rigid or flexible bronchoscopy. We present the case of a 62‐year‐old woman with poorly differentiated non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), referred to our institution for Nd:YAG laser photoresection of endobronchial tumour completely obstructing the right mainstem bronchus (RMSB). Soon after admission, our patient developed critical hypoxemia, rapidly followed by cardiac arrest. Bronchoscopy was urgently performed and revealed a necrotic tumour occluding the left mainstem bronchus (LMSB), with some residual tumour and clot at the RMSB. The tumour acutely obstructing the LMSB was successfully extracted using a foreign body retrieval basket and large flexible biopsy forceps via a large (therapeutic) flexible bronchoscope. Ventilation immediately improved, with the return of a pulse, and the patient was successfully extubated the next day. Pathology of the tumour embolism revealed NSCLC with necrosis and an adherent clot. Here, we review 16 published reports of endobronchial tumour embolism in relation to our case.