bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitro‐Functionalized Bis(pyrazolate) Metal–Organic Frameworks as Carbon Dioxide Capture Materials under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Mosca Nello , Vismara Rebecca , Fernandes José A. , Tuci Giulia , Di Nicola Corrado , Domasevitch Konstantin V. , Giacobbe Carlotta , Giambastiani Giuliano , Pettinari Claudio , Aragones‐Anglada Marta , Moghadam Peyman Z. , Fairen‐Jimenez David , Rossin Andrea , Galli Simona
Published: July 2018

The metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) M(BPZNO2) (M=Co, Cu, Zn; H2BPZNO2=3‐nitro‐4,4′‐bipyrazole) were prepared through solvothermal routes and were fully investigated in the solid state. They showed good thermal stability both under a N2 atmosphere and in air, with decomposition temperatures peaking up to 663 K for Zn(BPZNO2). Their crystal structure is characterized by 3D networks with square (M=Co, Zn) or rhombic (M=Cu) channels decorated by polar NO2 groups. As revealed by N2 adsorption at 77 K, they are micro‐mesoporous materials with BET specific surface areas ranging from 400 to 900 m2 g−1. Remarkably, under the mild conditions of 298 K and 1.2 bar, Zn(BPZNO2) adsorbs 21.8 wt % CO2 (4.95 mmol g−1). It shows a Henry CO2/N2 selectivity of 15 and an ideal adsorbed solution theory (IAST) selectivity of 12 at p=1 bar. As a CO2 adsorbent, this compound is the best‐performing MOF to date among those bearing a nitro group as a unique chemical tag. High‐resolution powder X‐ray diffraction at 298 K and different CO2 loadings revealed, for the first time in a NO2‐functionalized MOF, the insurgence of primary host–guest interactions involving the C(3)–NO2 moiety of the framework and the oxygen atoms of carbon dioxide, as confirmed by Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulations. This interaction mode is markedly different from that observed in NH2‐functionalized MOFs, for which the carbon atom of CO2 is involved.
Surfactant‐Guided Synthesis of Porous Pt Shells with Ordered Tangential Channels, Coated on Pd Nanostructures, and Their Enhanced Catalytic Activities
Authors: Wang Qishun , Li Junqi , Wang Xiao , Liu Yu , Long Yan , Li Jian , Pan Jing , Song Shuyan , Zhang Hongjie
Published: July 2018

High‐quality (Pd cube)@(Pt helix) core@shell nanoparticles, with a novel spiral‐structured shell and highly‐ordered tangential channels are successfully fabricated through a facile wet chemistry method with the help of N,N‐dimethyloctadecyl ammonium bromide acetate sodium (OTAB‐Na). A bottom‐up synthesis strategy provides accurate control of layers by simply changing the molar ratio of Pt/Pd with a uniform layer thickness of 2 nm maintained in all (1–3)‐rounds samples. The irregular Pt superstructures of the shells, and sophisticated core@shell hybrid materials endow the as‐produced samples with highly enhanced catalytic properties, when evaluated for hydrogenation of nitrobenzene as a probe reaction.
Effect of vertical internals on the pressure drop in a gas‐solid fluidized bed
Authors: Taofeeq Haidar , Al‐Dahhan Muthanna H.
Published: July 2018

In this work, the pressure drop at the wall and the radial profiles of pressure drop along the bed height have been measured using a differential pressure transducer and pressure probe‐differential pressure transducer in a gas‐solid fluidized bed with a 0.14 m inside diameter. Two types of circular arrangements of intense vertical internals (0.0254 and 0.0127 m diameter), two kinds of solid particles of Geldart B type (glass beads and aluminum oxide), and four selected superficial gas velocities in terms of u/umf have been used to study the impact of these different designs, as well as the physical and operating variables on the pressure drop measured at the wall of the bed and the radial pressure drop inside the fluidized bed. It has been experimentally demonstrated that the 0.0254 m internals can reduce the pressure drop at the wall and the radial pressure drop inside the bed by about 10 % when compared to without internals, and this result holds true for both kinds of solids used. However, the implementation of 0.0127 m internals inside the gas‐solid fluidized bed leads to a decrease in the pressure drop and radial pressure drop in the case of glass bead solid particles and an increase in the pressure drop in the case of aluminum oxide solid particles. The experimental results in the form of relevant dimensionless groups have been correlated using the statistical analysis software of JMP 12, due to the big difference between the experimental results of this work and the predicted values from the available correlations in the literature. The new correlation has been developed with a mean relative deviation value of 1.08 % between the experimental and predicted values.
Effects of aluminoxane cocatalysts on bis(imino)pyridine iron‐catalyzed ethylene oligomerization
Authors: Zhang Wei , Ye Jian , Jiang Binbo , Wang Jingdai , Liao Zuwei , Huang Zhengliang , Yang Yongrong , Ye Zhibin
Published: July 2018

Ethylene oligomerization facilitated with a bis(imino)pyridine iron catalyst in the presence of various aluminoxane cocatalysts is investigated in this work. The effects of different trialkylaluminiums and [H2O]/[Al] molar ratios employed in the synthesis of aluminoxanes on the catalytic activity, selectivity to linear α‐olefins, and polymer share have been discussed. The results show that MAO‐S (methylaluminoxane synthesized herein) renders the highest catalytic activity but with a rather high undesired polymer share, and i‐BAO (iso‐butylaluminoxane) is the most optimum cocatalyst, rendering the predominant production of α‐olefins at high activity with significantly reduced polymer share. On the contrary, EAO (ethylaluminoxane) shows quite poor catalytic activity. The use of mixed aluminoxanes, MBAO (mixed aluminoxanes synthesized from trimethylaluminium and triisobutylaluminium mixtures), and EBAO (mixed aluminoxanes synthesized from triethylaluminium and triisobutylaluminium mixtures) as cocatalysts also renders different catalytic performance, indicating that the composition/structure of mixed aluminoxanes has pronounced effects on the catalytic activity and selectivity to linear α‐olefins.
Agronomic Valorization of Olive Mill Wastewaters: Effects on Medicago sativa Growth and Soil Characteristics
Authors: Mekki Ali , Aloui Awatef , Guergueb Zouheir , Braham Mohamed
Published: July 2018

The effects of olive mill wastewater (OMW) on the main soil rhizospheric parameters are studied. In addition, the belongings of various OMWs quantities on the seeds germination and growth of a leguminous plant “alfalfa” (Medicago sativa) are investigated. The results shows that the irrigation of sandy soils by different OMW doses strongly influenced their granulometric, physicochemical, and microbiological characteristics. The study of the OMW phytotoxic potential shows that the raw OMW inhibited the alfalfa seeds germination. Whereas the OMW treated soil extracts reveales germination rates comparable to those of the control soil. Although a dose of 50 m3 ha−1 is most suitable for the soil characteristics evolution, the results shows that a dose of 75 m3 ha−1 is the most appropriate for the vegetative development and productivity of the “alfalfa” tested plant.
The role of sustainable development and innovation on firm performance
Authors: Guerrero‐Villegas Jaime , Sierra‐García Laura , Palacios‐Florencio Beatriz
Published: July 2018

In the new economic scenario, characterized by a rapidly changing environment, companies are pushed into seeking new responses in order to survive and succeed. Companies are looking for new activities to improve their economic performance. Furthermore, these activities have been focused on innovation and/or socially responsible aspects. This paper analyzes the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR), innovation and its effect on performance. Especially, it shows if innovation has a fundamental role in the development of socially responsible practices or if social issues are responsible for practices that lead to greater innovation and, consequently, to greater performance. Data were collected from a sample of 121 Spanish wineries. The results show that CSR and innovation act as a mediator depending on the measurement of performance used. CSR, specifically, acts as a mediator between innovation and objective performance. However, managers perceive that the relationship between CSR and performance improves through innovation activities.
A 2.4‐mW interference‐resilient receiver front end with series N‐path filter–based balun for body channel communication
Authors: Liu Zexue , Zheng Yongan , Wang Jiayi , Hao Xiucheng , Jiang Haoyun , Yang Fan , Liu Junhua , Liao Huailin
Published: July 2018

This paper presents an interference‐resilient receiver front end for body channel communication, which uses the human body as the signal transmission medium in the band of 40 to 60 MHz. To tackle strong out‐of‐band interference resulting from the human body antenna effect, a series N‐path filter–based balun preceding a low‐noise amplifier is proposed to improve the frequency modulation radio interference suppression and realize single‐to‐differential transformation of input body channel communication signals. Besides, an enhanced harmonic rejection with combination of a series N‐path filter and a harmonic rejection passive mixer using 8‐phase 12.5% duty‐cycle clocks as local oscillator is presented. The transconductance amplifier sharing is used to reduce the power consumption of the mixer. Fabricated in a standard 0.18‐μm complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor process, the proposed receiver front end occupies an area of 780 × 660 μm2 including pads. Operating at 50 MHz, the front end consumes 1.35 mA from a 1.8‐V supply and achieves a maximum gain of 50.5 dB with a noise figure of 11.2 dB, 28.5 dB frequency modulation interference suppression at the second‐order harmonic rejection, and 53.9 dB at the third‐order harmonic rejection.
Sensitivity of filter bank SCFDMA to carrier frequency offset and its compensation using firefly algorithm
Authors: Deepak P. M. , Ali C. K.
Published: July 2018

This paper proposes an efficient wireless uplink strategy named filter bank single carrier frequency division multiple access. The proposed system combines the low peak‐to‐average power ratio of precoded orthogonal frequency division multiple access with the reduced out‐of‐band emission of filter bank multicarrier scheme. We present a complete mathematical analysis of the proposed model and derive the conditions to be fulfilled by the transmit filter for perfect data recovery. We further introduce a transmit filter design to enhance the peak‐to‐average power ratio and out‐of‐band emission characteristics of the proposed system. This paper also analyzes the sensitivity of the filter bank single carrier frequency division multiple access system to carrier frequency offset (CFO) and suggests a low complexity interference compensation scheme, under the assumption of perfect knowledge of CFO at the receiver. Later on, the assumption on CFO parameter is removed, and a blind interference compensation technique based on firefly algorithm is developed. Finally, a detailed simulation study is performed to substantiate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Glycemic variability in the development of cardiovascular complications in diabetes
Authors: Nusca Annunziata , Tuccinardi Dario , Albano Marzia , Cavallaro Camilla , Ricottini Elisabetta , Manfrini Silvia , Pozzilli Paolo , Di Sciascio Germano
Published: July 2018

Diabetes mellitus represents a major risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease and other vascular complications. Glycated haemoglobin, fructosamine, and fasting blood glucose levels are partial parameters to exhaustively describe patient dysglycemic status. Thus, recently the new concept of glycemic variability has emerged, including information about two major aspects: the magnitude of blood glucose excursions (from nadir to peak, thus lower and higher spikes) and the time intervals in which these fluctuations occur. Despite the lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate definition and tools for its assessment, glycemic variability seems to have more deleterious effects than sustained hyperglycemia in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiovascular complications. This manuscript aimed to review the most recent evidence on glycemic variability and its potential use in everyday clinical practice to identify diabetic patients at higher risk of cardiovascular complications and thus needing stricter monitoring and treatment.
Examining the double‐deficit hypothesis in vowelized–transparent Arabic in a national representative sample of Grades 3 and 4
Authors: Asadi Ibrahim A. , Shany Michal
Published: July 2018

We examined the double‐deficit hypothesis in Arabic by investigating the reading and cognitive profiles of readers with selective deficits in naming speed, phonological awareness, or both. In a nationally representative sample of 486 children in the third and fourth grades, we identified 171 children with reading difficulties: 20 (12%) were classified as having a phonological deficit, 31 (18%) as having a naming speed deficit, and 41 (24%) as having a double deficit. Differences between the subgroups extended to reading, cognitive, and linguistic processes beyond phonological and naming abilities. Children with a double deficit performed worse than those with a naming speed deficit but similar to those with a phonological deficit. Numerous unconfirmed theories led to an in‐depth analysis of the nature of rapid automatized naming and its relation to orthographic processing. Surprisingly, our findings revealed that orthographic processing may be considered a novel and separate core deficit, suggesting a triple deficit in Arabic rather than a double deficit. The findings are discussed in light of the uniqueness and complexity of Arabic orthography and orthographic transparency in the Arabic language.
Herbicides and herbivory interact to drive plant community and crop‐tree establishment
Authors: Stokely Thomas D. , Verschuyl Jake , Hagar Joan C. , Betts Matthew G.
Published: July 2018

Land management practices often directly alter vegetation structure and composition, but the degree to which ecological processes such as herbivory interact with management to influence biodiversity is less well understood. We hypothesized that large herbivores compound the effects of intensive forest management on early seral plant communities and plantation establishment (i.e., tree survival and growth), and the degree of such effects is dependent on the intensity of management practices. We established 225‐m2 wild‐ungulate (deer and elk) exclosures, nested within a manipulated gradient of management intensity (no‐herbicide control, light herbicide, moderate herbicide, and intensive herbicide treatments), replicated at the scale of whole harvest units (10–19 ha). Vegetation structure, composition, and crop‐tree responses to herbivory varied across the gradient of herbicide application during the first two years of stand establishment, with herbivory effects most evident at light and moderate herbicide treatments. In the moderate herbicide treatment, which approximates management applied to >2.5 million hectares in the Pacific Northwest, United States, foraging by deer and elk resulted in simplified, low‐cover plant communities more closely resembling the intensive herbicide treatment. Herbivory further suppressed the growth of competing vegetation in the light herbicide treatment, improving crop‐tree survival, and providing early evidence of an ecosystem service. By changing community composition and vegetation structure, intensive forest management alters foraging selectivity and subsequent plant–herbivore interactions; initial shifts in early seral communities are likely to influence understory plant communities and tree growth in later stages of forest development.
Incorporation of topological defects and atomic impurities on the carbon nanotube surface: A DFT study of AD‐dimer defects
Authors: Anafcheh Maryam , Naderi Fereshteh , Zahedi Mansour
Published: July 2018

We applied density functional calculations to investigate the 7‐5‐5‐7 defects obtained by the addition of an X2 dimer (X = B, Al, Ga, C, Si, Ge, N, P, As, O, S, and Se) to the zigzag (6, 0), (7, 0), and (8, 0) and armchair (4, 4), (5, 5), (6, 6) single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Two different orientations for X2 ad‐dimer defects were considered. According to our results, defect formation energies depend strongly on the nanotube diameter and the orientation of the defect. Moreover, it was found that defect formation energies of the X2 ad‐dimer‐defective SWCNTs depend upon the nature of X–X, being in the series of B/C/N/O (first row atoms) < Ga/Ge/As/Se (third‐row atoms) < Al/Si/P/S (second‐row atoms). X2 ad‐dimer defects reduce the HOMO‐LUMO gaps (Eg) of the zigzag (n, 0) SWCNTs by only about 1.06%‐8.53%, while decrease the Eg of the armchair (n, n) SWCNTs by about 10.03%‐42.29%, in comparison with those of perfect SWCNTs. Our results indicated that tube diameter has a very slight effect on the adsorption energy of two hydrogen atoms on the exterior sidewalls of XAD‐defective SWCNTs. Moreover, the adsorption of hydrogen atoms on the XAD‐defective armchair SWCNTs is stronger than on the XAD‐defective zigzag ones, depending strongly on the type of ad‐dimer dopants. A decreasing trend is observed for Er/H values as the absolute values of the natural charge of the X atoms increases.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Anacetrapib in Black and White Healthy Subjects
Authors: Krishna Rajesh , Gheyas Ferdous , Corr Christy , Cote Josee , Liu Yang , Wagner John , Gutstein David E.
Published: July 2018

Anacetrapib is a cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibitor intended for the treatment of dyslipidemia. A phase 1 study was conducted to examine the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of multiple doses of anacetrapib in black compared to white healthy subjects. Although there was no apparent race‐related pharmacokinetic effect, attenuation of the lipid response was observed in black subjects. Specifically, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol percentage increased 18.1% (absolute percentage points) less in black subjects (89.9%) when compared to increases in white subjects (108.0%). Similarly, the decrease in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was 17.8% (absolute percentage points) less in blacks (–21.2%) relative to whites (–39.0%). In contrast, there were no apparent race‐related differences in cholesteryl ester transfer protein mass or activity. Anacetrapib was generally well tolerated in this study. The results of this study suggest that there may be race‐related differences in pharmacodynamics of anacetrapib independent of pharmacokinetics.
A laboratory model for evaluating relapse of undesirable caregiver behavior
Authors: Mitteer Daniel R. , Greer Brian D. , Fisher Wayne W. , Briggs Adam M. , Wacker David P.
Published: July 2018

The success of behavioral treatments like functional communication training depends on their continued implementation outside of the clinical context, where failures in caregiver treatment adherence can lead to the relapse of destructive behavior. In the present study, we developed a laboratory model for evaluating the relapse of undesirable caregiver behavior that simulates two common sources of disruption (i.e., changes in context and in treatment efficacy) believed to affect caregiver treatment adherence using simulated confederate destructive behavior. In Phase 1, the caregiver's delivery of reinforcers for destructive behavior terminated confederate destructive behavior in a home‐like context. In Phase 2, the caregiver implemented functional communication training in a clinical context in which providing reinforcers for destructive or alternative behavior terminated confederate destructive behavior. In Phase 3, the caregiver returned to the home‐like context, and caregiver behavior produced no effect on confederate destructive or alternative behavior, simulating an inconsolable child. Undesirable caregiver behavior relapsed in three of four treatment‐adherence challenges.
Combined treatment with GSNO and CAPE accelerates functional recovery via additive antioxidant activities in a mouse model of TBI
Authors: Khan Mushfiquddin , Shunmugavel Anandakumar , Dhammu Tajinder S. , Khan Hamza , Singh Inderjit , Singh Avtar K.
Published: July 2018

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the major cause of physical disability and emotional vulnerability. Treatment of TBI is lacking due to its multimechanistic etiology, including derailed mitochondrial and cellular energy metabolism. Previous studies from our laboratory show that an endogenous nitric oxide (NO) metabolite S‐nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) provides neuroprotection and improves neurobehavioral function via anti‐inflammatory and anti‐neurodegenerative mechanisms. To accelerate the rate and enhance the degree of recovery, we investigated combining GSNO with caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a potent antioxidant compound, using a male mouse model of TBI, controlled cortical impact in mice. The combination therapy accelerated improvement of cognitive and depressive‐like behavior compared with GSNO or CAPE monotherapy. Separately, both GSNO and CAPE improved mitochondrial integrity/function and decreased oxidative damage; however, the combination therapy had greater effects on Drp1 and MnSOD. Additionally, while CAPE alone activated AMPK, this activation was heightened in combination with GSNO. CAPE treatment of normal animals also significantly increased the expression levels of pAMPK, pACC (activation of AMPK substrate ACC), and pLKB1 (activation of upstream to AMPK kinase LKB1), indicating that CAPE activates AMPK via LKB1. These results show that while GSNO and CAPE provide neuroprotection and improve functional recovery separately, the combination treatment invokes greater recovery by significantly improving mitochondrial functions and activating the AMPK enzyme. Both GSNO and CAPE are in human consumption without any known adverse effects; therefore, a combination therapy‐based multimechanistic approach is worthy of investigation in human TBI.
Left atrial appendage isolation in atrial fibrillation catheter ablation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: AlTurki Ahmed , Huynh Thao , Dawas Ahmed , AlTurki Hussain , Joza Jacqueline , Healey Jeff S. , Essebag Vidal
Published: July 2018

A significant proportion of patients’ experience recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) despite pulmonary venous isolation (PVI), especially those with persistent AF. Isolation of the left atrial appendage (LAA) may reduce AF recurrence. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of LAA isolation in addition to PVI compared with PVI alone. We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases, up to April 21st, 2017, for all studies comparing the effect LAA electrical isolation or ligation in addition to PVI, as opposed to PVI alone, on the recurrence of atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation. We used random‐effects meta‐analysis models to summarize the studies. One RCT and four observational studies enrolling 781 patients were retained. Four studies assessed the added effect of LAA catheter ablation, and one study evaluated the effect of LAA ligation with the aim of LAA electrical isolation. Four studies exclusively enrolled patients with persistent atrial fibrillation and one study predominantly enrolled patients with persistent atrial fibrillation. Follow‐up ranged from 12 to 15 months. The addition of LAA isolation to PVI reduced AF recurrence compared with the latter alone (odds ratio (OR) = 0.19; 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.10‐0.37; P < 0.00001). Left atrial appendage isolation was also associated with a reduction in AF recurrence after repeat ablation (OR = 0.40; CI = 0.25‐0.65; P = 0.0003). The addition of LAA isolation to PVI was associated with a decrease in AF recurrence in patients with persistent AF. Further studies are needed to assess the effect on long‐term risk of stroke.
Nutritional Challenges in Patients After Intestinal Autotransplantation and Ex Vivo Surgery
Authors: Ravella Shilpa , Liou Peter , Velasco Monica , Harrison Alycea , Kato Tomoaki , Martinez Mercedes
Published: July 2018

Background

Intestinal autotransplantation (IATx) and ex vivo resection is a novel surgical strategy to treat patients with unresectable abdominal neoplasms involving the mesenteric root. Nutritional challenges after IATx and ex vivo surgery have not been well described.

Methods

Eleven patients, aged 7–68 years (median, 49 years) underwent IATx and ex vivo resection at our center from 2009 to 2016. A retrospective chart review was performed to evaluate nutrition status, tolerance of an oral diet, and need for parenteral nutrition (PN) and enteral (EN) nutrition. These factors were assessed preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively.

Results

Prior to surgery, 10 of 11 patients were tolerating oral diets without need for additional PN or EN. Postoperatively, PN was initiated in all patients from 1–15 days after surgery (median, 5 days) and continued from 12–122 days (median, 32.5 days), except for of 1 patient who underwent a total enterectomy and required subsequent allotransplantation with ongoing PN. EN was initiated in 9 patients from 4–117 days after surgery (median, 17 days) and has been ongoing in 5 patients. Oral diets were initiated in all patients from 5–115 days (median, 14 days) postoperatively; at 3 months, 11 of 12 patients were tolerating oral diets.

Conclusion

IATx and ex vivo resection presents a unique challenge with respect to nutrition management. Patients undergoing these complex surgeries may have difficulty maintaining adequate nutrition with an oral diet alone in the immediate postoperative period and beyond and may require prolonged nutrition support.
Quantification of eight active ingredients in crude and processed radix polygoni multiflori applying miniaturized matrix solid‐phase dispersion microextraction followed by UHPLC
Authors: Du Kun‐ze , Chen Ying , Li Jin , Tang Ge , Tian Fei , He Jun , Chang Yanxu
Published: July 2018

A rapid, efficient, and green sample preparation method has been developed to extract eight active ingredients (gallic acid, catechins, epicatechin, polydatin, 2,3,5,4′‐tetrahydroxystilbene‐2‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside, resveratrol, emodin, and physcion) in radix polygoni multiflori by miniaturized matrix solid‐phase dispersion microextraction. Simple and sensitive ultra high performance liquid chromatography combined with ultraviolet detection has been applied to analyze the multiple compounds. The best results were obtained by adding 25 mg sample into 25 mg adsorbent and grinding for 2 min with disorganized silica as adsorbent and 1 mL 150 mM 1‐dodecyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide as a green eluting solvent. Good linearity (r2 > 0.998) for each analyte was obtained by this method. The intra‐day and inter‐day precision (RSD) were both below 5.31%, and the recoveries of the analytes ranged from 93.3 to 100.0%. This simple miniaturized matrix solid‐phase dispersion microextraction method for analyzing the compounds in radix polygoni multiflori needs a short time and requires little sample and reagent. Thus, this method is far more eco‐friendly and efficient than traditional extraction methods (reflux and ultrasound‐assisted extraction). The present investigation provided a promising method for the fast preparation and discrimination of chemical differences in crude and processed radix polygoni multiflori.
The Indirect Effect of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms on Current Alcohol Use Through Negative Cognitions in Sexual Minority Men
Authors: Banerjee Nikhil , Ironson Gail , Fitch Calvin , Boroughs Michael S. , Safren Steven A. , Powell Alexis , O'Cleirigh Conall
Published: July 2018

Self‐medication theory posits that some trauma survivors use alcohol to cope with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, but the role of negative posttraumatic cognitions in this relationship is not well defined. We examined associations among PTSD symptoms, posttraumatic cognitions, and alcohol intoxication frequency in 290 men who have sex with men (MSM), who reported a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Using a bootstrap approach, we examined the indirect effects of PTSD symptoms on alcohol intoxication frequency through posttraumatic cognitions regarding the self, world, and self‐blame. In separate regression models, higher levels of PTSD symptoms and posttraumatic cognitions were each associated with more frequent intoxication, accounting for 2.6% and 5.2% of the variance above demographics, respectively. When examined simultaneously, posttraumatic cognitions remained significantly correlated with intoxication frequency whereas PTSD symptoms did not. Men reporting elevated posttraumatic cognitions faced increased odds for current alcohol dependence, odds ratio (OR) = 2.19, 95% CI [1.13, 4.22], compared with men reporting low posttraumatic cognitions, independent of current PTSD diagnosis. A higher level of PTSD symptom severity was indirectly associated with more frequent alcohol intoxication through cognitions about the self and world; the indirect to total effect ratios were 0.74 and 0.35, respectively. Negative posttraumatic cognitions pertaining to individuals’ self‐perceptions and appraisals of the world as dangerous may play a role in self‐medication with alcohol among MSM with a history of CSA. Interventions targeting these cognitions may offer potential for reducing alcohol misuse in this population, with possible broader implications for HIV‐infection risk.
Right Ventricular Dissipative Energy Loss Detected by Vector Flow Mapping in Children: Characteristics of Normal Values
Authors: Chen Zhongxiu , Li Yajiao , Li Chen , Tang Hong , Wang Hui , Zhong Yue , Cai Yuyan , Rao Li
Published: July 2018

Objectives

The feasible application of vector flow mapping (VFM)–derived right ventricular (RV) energy loss (EL) is lacking. This study was designed to determine reference values of VFM–derived EL within the right ventricle and evaluate potential correlated variables.

Methods

A total of 90 healthy children were enrolled. Velocity vector fields of the intra‐RV outflow tract and pulmonary trunk (OP) and RV blood flow were obtained from the parasternal short‐axis view and RV focused apical 4‐chamber view, respectively. RV‐EL and OP‐EL values during diastole and systole were calculated using VFM analysis. The potential relationships between demographic and echocardiographic parameters and the dissipative EL were also identified.

Results

Mean subject age was 8.99 ± 5.35 years. The median (interquartile range) values were 8.82 (5.47–14.30) W/m for RV diastolic EL, 3.17 (2.11–5.54) W/m for RV systolic EL, 18.82 (13.93–24.92) W/m for OP diastolic EL, and 29.88 (20.62–40.78) W/m for OP systolic EL, respectively. The dissipative EL values were negatively correlated with age and RV global strain, and positively correlated with heart rate and RV Tei index. Multivariate analysis showed that age was the primary independent predictor of these 4 types of EL, while heart rate and strain were contributors of the RV diastolic EL and OP systolic EL.

Conclusions

The present study initially validated the application of vector flow mapping–derived EL analysis in right ventricle and established reference values for the future assessment of children with cardiopulmonary disease. Age, heart rate, and strain were independent variables correlated with the dissipative EL.
Evaluation of Left Ventricular Systolic Function and Mass in Primary Hypertensive Patients by Echocardiography
Authors: Ali Shima Ibrahim , Li Yuman , Adam Mohamed , Xie Mingxing
Published: July 2018

Hypertension is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The accurate evaluation of cardiovascular risk is of paramount importance in the management of hypertensive patients. Conventional echocardiographic methods have provided the assessment of left ventricular systolic function and mass for many years. Tissue Doppler imaging, 3‐dimensional echocardiography, and speckle tracking echocardiography are newer echocardiographic modalities for the left ventricular systolic function and mass quantification. The major emphasis of this review is to evaluate the left ventricular systolic function and mass by conventional and newly developed echocardiographic in hypertensive patients.
Does Patient Posture Affect the Ultrasound Evaluation of Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
Authors: Braverman Meirav , Kamisan Atan Ixora , Turel Friyan , Friedman Talia , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Translabial ultrasound (US) imaging is an emerging method for the evaluation of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Normative data to date are limited to imaging in the supine position. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of posture changes on US pelvic organ mobility.

Methods

This work was a retrospective study of 175 women seen in a tertiary urogynecologic center for symptoms of lower urinary tract and pelvic floor dysfunction. All underwent a standardized interview, POP quantification prolapse assessment, and 4‐dimensional translabial US examination in supine and standing positions. Offline measurement of organ descent on the Valsalva maneuver was undertaken at a later date and was blinded against all other data.

Results

The mean age was 58 (SD, 13.5; range, 17 to 89) years, with a mean body mass index of 29 (SD, 6.1; range, 18 to 53) kg/m2. In total, 58.9% (n = 103) presented with symptoms of prolapse. Clinically, 82.8% (n = 145) had substantial prolapse on the POP quantification assessment. On imaging, bladder, uterine, and rectal ampulla positions were significantly lower, and the hiatal area on the Valsalva maneuver was larger in the standing position (P < .03). On receiver operating characteristic statistics assessing correlations between POP symptoms and US pelvic organ descent, the area under the curve was higher in the standing position, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Measurements of organ descent and hiatal dimensions are generally higher in the standing position. However, they are not reflected in a stronger association between symptoms and organ descent. Hence, imaging in the standing position can be limited to those patients in whom a false‐negative assessment result is suspected.
Evaluating the Long‐, Short‐, and Oblique‐Axis Approaches for Ultrasound‐Guided Vascular Access Cannulation
Authors: Lv Yanji , Liu Haitao , Yu Pulin , Wang Guiyue , Liu Miao , Li Yuhang , Wang Hongliang , Yu Kaijiang , Wang Changsong
Published: July 2018

Background

Our goal was to conduct a network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials to compare the effects of the long‐axis (LAX), short‐axis (SAX), and oblique‐axis (OAX) ultrasound guidance approaches for vascular access cannulation.

Methods

We searched 5 databases, including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Seven randomized clinical trials assessing ultrasound guidance for vascular access cannulation via the LAX, SAX, or OAX approach were included. The primary end point was the first‐pass success rate. Secondary end points included the mean time to success and average number of attempts until success. We used random‐effects models to calculate weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals for continuous outcomes and relative risks with 95% confidence intervals for dichotomous outcomes.

Results

There were no significant differences between the LAX, SAX, and OAX techniques with respect to the first‐pass success rate, mean time to success, average number of attempts until success, or the incidence of hematoma.

Conclusion

There was insufficient evidence to definitively recommend the LAX, SAX, or OAX approach for patients undergoing ultrasound‐guided vascular access cannulation.
Assessment of Parotid and Submandibular Glands With Shear Wave Elastography Following Radioactive Iodine Therapy for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Rahatli Feride Kural , Turnaoglu Hale , Iyidir Ozlem Turhan , Kirnap Nazli Gulsoy , Haberal Kemal Murat , Aydın Erdinç , Uslu Nihal
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common thyroid malignancy. Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy is used for remnant ablation following thyroidectomy. Side effects such as dysphagia, xerostomia, and sialoadenitis may occur. We aimed to determine the differences in the parotid and submandibulary glands between healthy patients and patients with PTC who had undergone RAI therapy and have dry mouth symptoms using both shear wave elastography and ultrasonography.

Methods

We enrolled 30 patients with PTC who had undergone RAI therapy following surgery and 30 healthy controls. Ultrasonography and shear wave elastography of submandibular and parotid glands were performed. The volume of the submandibular glands and the thickness of parotid glands were determined. Ten independent measurements were obtained from each gland, with the region of interest placed at different points on the glands. The mean shear wave velocities (SWVs) were calculated and compared between the patients and controls.

Results

In the PTC group, there was a significant reduction in the volume of the submandibular glands (P < .05) and in the thickness of the parotid glands (P < .05) compared with the control group. The mean SWVs of the parotid glands and submandibular glands were significantly higher in the PTC group compared with the control group (P < .0001). The SWVs of the parotid glands were higher than the SWVs of the submandibular glands (P < .0001).

Conclusions

Shear wave elastography could be a noninvasive and easy assessment method of parotid and submandibular glands in patients who had undergone RAI therapy and experience dry mouth.
Crawling migration under chemical signalling: A stochastic model
Authors: Etchegaray Christèle , Meunier Nicolas
Published: July 2018

Cell migration is an essential and complex mechanism involved in many physiological processes such as tissue formation or tumor invasion. External and internal cues are known to guide cell motion by regulating cytoskeleton dynamics. Here, we approach cell‐crawling migration under a large‐scale assumption so that it reduces to a particle in motion. However, we describe the cell displacement as the result of its internal activity: the cell velocity is a function of the (discrete) protrusive forces exerted by filopodia on the substrate. Cell polarization ability is modeled in the feedback that the cell motion exerts on the protrusion rates: faster cells form preferentially protrusions in the direction of motion. In addition, we incorporate a gradient in attractive chemical signal, which may vary in time. We perform numerical simulations on this model, showing that the balance between cells self‐polarized internal machinery and signal sensing leads to nontrivial behaviors. Finally, by using the mathematical framework of structured population processes previously developed to study population dynamics, we study rigorously the mathematical model, and we derive some of its fundamental properties.
First‐Pass Metabolism of Chlorophylls in Mice
Authors: Viera Isabel , Chen Kewei , Ríos José J. , Benito Itziar , Pérez‐Gálvez Antonio , Roca María
Published: July 2018

Scope

The dietary intake of chlorophylls is estimated to be ≈50 mg d–1. However, their first pass metabolism and systemic assimilation is not well characterized.

Methods and results

A group of 30 mice are fed a diet rich in chlorophylls, while 10 mice received a standard diet without chlorophylls (control group). Liver extracts are analyzed every 15 days by HPLC–ESI(+)/APCI(+)‐hrTOF– MS/MS to measure the accretion of specific chlorophyll metabolites. The chlorophyll profile found in the livers of mice fed a chlorophyll‐rich diet shows that the formation and/or absorption of pheophorbides, pyro‐derivatives, and phytyl‐chlorin e6 require the occurrence of a precise first‐pass metabolism. In addition, the apical absorption of pheorphorbide a‐rich micelles is significantly inhibited in Caucasian colon adenocarcinoma‐2 cells pre‐incubated with BLT1.

Conclusion

Pheophorbide a absorption is, at least partly, protein‐mediated through SR‐BI. This active absorption process could explain the specific accumulation of pheophorbide a in the livers of animals fed a chlorophyll‐rich diet. A complementary mechanism could be the de‐esterification of pheophytin a in the liver, yielding pheophorbide a and phytol, which can explain the origin of phytol in the liver. Hence, the results suggest two molecular mechanisms responsible for the accumulation of the health‐promoting compounds pheophorbide and phytol.
Multiparametric quantitative MRI assessment of thigh muscles in limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy 2A and 2B
Authors: Arrigoni Filippo , De Luca Alberto , Velardo Daniele , Magri Francesca , Gandossini Sandra , Russo Annamaria , Froeling Martijn , Bertoldo Alessandra , Leemans Alexander , Bresolin Nereo , D'angelo Grazia
Published: July 2018

Introduction: The aim of this study was to apply quantitative MRI (qMRI) to assess structural modifications in thigh muscles of subjects with limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) 2A and 2B with long disease duration. Methods: Eleven LGMD2A, 9 LGMD2B patients and 11 healthy controls underwent a multi‐parametric 3T MRI examination of the thigh. The protocol included structural T1‐weighted images, DIXON sequences for fat fraction calculation, T2 values quantification and diffusion MRI. Region of interest analysis was performed on 4 different compartments (anterior compartment, posterior compartment, gracilis, sartorius). Results: Patients showed high levels of fat infiltration as measured by DIXON sequences. Sartorius and anterior compartment were more infiltrated in LGMD2B than LGMD2A patients. T2 values were mildly reduced in both disorders. Correlations between clinical scores and qMRI were found. Conclusions: qMRI measures may help to quantify muscular degeneration, but careful interpretation is needed when fat infiltration is massive. Muscle Nerve 58: 550–558, 2018
Muscle endurance deficits in myositis patients despite normal manual muscle testing scores
Authors: Amici David R. , Pinal‐Fernandez Iago , Pagkatipunan Ruben , Mears Albert , de Lorenzo Rebecca , Tiniakou Eleni , Albayda Jemima , Paik Julie J. , Lloyd Thomas E. , Christopher‐STINE Lisa , Mammen Andrew L. , Chung Tae
Published: July 2018

Introduction: It is unclear whether quantitating muscle endurance adds nonredundant information useful for the care of patients with muscular disease. Methods: Records were retrospectively reviewed for all Johns Hopkins Myositis Center patients with a muscle endurance assessment (n = 128, 226 patient‐visits). Muscle endurance and strength were quantitated with the Myositis Functional Index‐2 (FI2) and manual muscle testing (MMT), respectively. Results: Composite FI2 muscle endurance scores were comparable in inclusion body myositis (n = 58), dermatomyositis (n = 31), and polymyositis (n = 39). Overall, muscle endurance correlated with and evolved similarly to strength, inversely to serum creatine kinase. However, in patients with normal or near‐normal strength (mean MMT > 9.75/10), muscle endurance was typically abnormal and highly variable (mean FI2, 5.6/10; interquartile range, 3.3‐7.8/10). Discussion: Muscle endurance testing may identify muscle impairment inadequately described by MMT, particularly in patients with high MMT scores. Muscle Nerve 59:70–75, 2019
Direct differentiation method for sensitivity analysis based on transfer matrix method for multibody systems
Authors: Tu Tianxiong , Wang Guoping , Rui Xiaoting , Zhou Qinbo , Miao Yunfei
Published: July 2018

On one hand, the new version of transfer matrix method for multibody systems (NV‐MSTMM), has been proposed by formulating transfer equations of elements in acceleration level instead of position level as in the original discrete time transfer matrix method of multibody systems to study multibody system dynamics. This new formulation avoids local linearization and allows using any integration algorithms. On the other hand, sensitivity analysis is an important way to improve the optimization efficiency of multibody system dynamics. In this paper, a totally novel direct differentiation method based on NV‐MSTMM for sensitivity analysis of multibody systems is developed. Based on direct differentiation method, sensitivity analysis matrix for each kind of element is established. By assembling transfer matrices and sensitivity analysis matrices based on differentiation law of multiplication, the sensitivity analysis equation of overall transfer equation is deduced. The computing procedure of the proposed method is also presented. All these improvements as well as three numerical examples show that the direct differentiation method based on NV‐MSTMM is suitable for optimizing the dynamic sensitivity in multi–rigid‐body systems.
Lynch syndrome – cancer pathways, heterogeneity and immune escape
Authors: Seth Sidhant , Ager Ann , Arends Mark J , Frayling Ian M
Published: July 2018

Recent work has provided evidence for genetic and molecular heterogeneity in colorectal cancers (CRCs) arising in patients with Lynch syndrome (LS), dividing these into two groups: G1 and G2. In terms of mutation and gene expression profile, G1 CRCs bear resemblance to sporadic CRCs with microsatellite instability (MSI), whereas G2 CRCs are more similar to microsatellite‐stable CRCs. Here we review the current state of knowledge on pathways of precursor progression to CRC in LS and how these might tie in with the new findings. Immunotherapies are an active field of research for MSI cancers and their potential use for cancer therapy for both sporadic and LS MSI cancers is discussed. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poly(ethylene oxide)‐based block copolymer electrolytes for lithium metal batteries
Authors: Phan Trang NT , Issa Sébastien , Gigmes Didier
Published: July 2018

Nanostructured block copolymer electrolytes (BCEs) based on poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) are considered as promising candidates for solid‐state electrolytes in high energy density lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Because of their self‐assembly properties, they confer on electrolytes both high mechanical strength and sufficient ionic conductivity, which linear PEO cannot provide. Two types of PEO‐based BCEs are commonly known. There are the traditional ones, also called dual‐ion conducting BCEs, which are a mixture of block copolymer chains and lithium salts. In these systems, the cations and anions participate in the conduction, inducing a concentration polarization in the electrolyte, thus leading to poor performances of LMBs. The second family of BCEs are single‐lithium‐ion conducting BCEs (SIC‐BCEs), which consist of anions being covalently grafted to the polymer backbone, therefore involving conduction by lithium ions only. SIC‐BCEs have marked advantages over dual‐ion conducting BCEs due to a high lithium ion transference number, absence of anion concentration gradients as well as low rate of lithium dendrite growth. This review focuses on the recent developments in BCEs for applications in LMBs with particular emphasis on the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of these materials. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry