bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The facial artery
Authors: Lee Hyung‐Jin , Won Seong‐Yoon , O Jehoon , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Mun Seo‐Young , Yang Hun‐Mu , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: October 2017

The facial artery is the major vessel supplying blood to the face so its location and course are very important for the safe manipulation of both surgical and non‐surgical interventions. This study documents current anatomical information about the facial artery and its tributaries. The terminology of the facial artery tributaries was revisited with reference to the Terminologica Anatomica and novel nomenclature was suggested with anatomical features. The tributaries to the lower lip (inferior labial artery), labiomental region (horizontal and vertical labiomental artery), upper lip (superior labial artery), nose (inferior and lateral alar artery and nasal septal artery), angular and ocular region (angular artery and detoured branch) and the course, layers and location of the facial artery main trunk were revisited with contemporary anatomical studies. The facial artery and its tributaries have close topographical connections to the facial expression muscles, nasolabial groove, and vermilion border, and these also distinguish facial landmarks comprising the cheilion, stomion, and gonion. Interestingly, in contrast to previous descriptions, some terminal branches did not take a straight course but a detoured course. The angular artery was connected to the ophthalmic artery branches and in some cases did not originate from the facial artery. Vascular complications of the facial artery tributaries are frequently seen in the angular, dorsum of the nose, tip of the nose, and glabellar region. This detailed review focusing on facial arterial topography in the various areas of the face would help to enhance quality of treatment. Clin. Anat. 31:99–108, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Body donation today
Authors: Wingfield Henry Alan
Published: October 2017

In the United States, in particular, there are various ways of obtaining cadavers for medical study, two of the most common being willed body programs and private supply companies. Herein, the mechanisms of these two systems of cadaver procurement are reviewed and the pros and cons of each discussed. Clin. Anat. 31:86–89, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Online Measurement of Oxygen‐Dependent Enzyme Reaction Kinetics
Authors: Meissner Murray P. , Nordblad Mathias , Woodley John M.
Published: October 2017

As the application of biocatalysis to complement conventional chemical and catalytic approaches continues to expand, an increasing number of reactions involve poorly water‐soluble substrates. At required industrial concentrations necessary for industrial implementation, this frequently leads to heterogeneous reaction mixtures composed of multiple phases. Such systems are challenging to sample, and therefore, it is problematic to measure representative component concentrations. Herein, an online method for following the progress of oxygen‐dependent reactions through accurate measurement of the oxygen mass balance in the gas phase of a reactor is demonstrated and validated. The method was successfully validated and demonstrated by using two model reactions: firstly, the oxidation of glucose by glucose oxidase and, secondly, the Baeyer–Villiger oxidation of macrocyclic ketones to lactones. Initial reaction rate constants and time‐course progressions calculated from the oxygen mass balance were validated against conventional online methods of dissolved oxygen tension and pH titration measurements. A feasible operating window and the sensitivity to dynamic changes of reaction rates were established by controlling oxygen transfer through the operating parameters of the reactor. Such kinetic data forms the basis for reaction characterisation, from which bottlenecks may be made evident and directed improvement strategies can be identified and implemented.
When high‐volume PCI operators in high‐volume hospitals move to lower volume hospitals—Do they still maintain high volume and quality of outcomes?
Authors: Lu Tsung‐Hsueh , Li Sheng‐Tun , Liang Fu‐Wen , Lee Jo‐Chi , Yin Wei‐Hsian
Published: October 2017

Objectives

The aim of this quasi‐experimental study was to examine whether high‐volume percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) operators still maintain high volume and quality of outcomes when they moved to lower volume hospitals.

Background

Systematic reviews have indicated that high‐volume PCI operators and hospitals have higher quality outcomes. However, little is known on whether high PCI volume and high quality outcomes are mainly due to operator characteristics (i.e., skill and experience) and is portable across organizations or whether it is due to hospital characteristics (i.e., equipment, team, and management system) and is less portable.

Methods

We used Taiwan National Health Insurance claims data 2000–2012 to identify 98 high‐volume PCI operators, 10 of whom moved from one hospital to another during the study period. We compared the PCI volume, risk‐adjusted mortality ratio, and major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) ratio before and after moving.

Results

Of the 10 high‐volume operators who moved, 6 moved from high‐ to moderate‐ or low‐volume hospitals, with median annual PCI volumes (interquartile range) of 130 (117–165) in prior hospitals and 54 (46–84) in subsequent hospitals (the hospital the operator moved to), and the remaining 4 moved from high to high‐volume hospitals, with median annual PCI volumes (interquartile range) of 151 (133–162) in prior hospitals and 193 (178–239) in subsequent hospitals. No significant differences were observed in the risk‐adjusted mortality ratios and MACE ratios between high‐volume operators and matched controls before and after moving.

Conclusions

High‐volume operators cannot maintain high volume when they moved from high to moderate or low‐volume hospitals; however, the quality of care is maintained. High PCI volume and high‐quality outcomes are less portable and more hospital bound.
Copper–Palladium Tetrapods with Sharp Tips as a Superior Catalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Lan , Chen Sheng , Dai Yanmeng , Shen Zeqi , Wei Miaojin , Huang Ruijie , Li Hongliang , Zheng Tingting , Zhang Yunjiao , Zhou Shiming , Zeng Jie
Published: October 2017

The development of superior non‐Pt catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is highly desirable but still challenging. Herein, we prepared 50‐nm CuPd tetrapods with catalytic performance towards the alkaline ORR that was higher than that of Pd nanoparticles, CuPd nanoparticles, CuPd tetrahedrons, and 7‐nm CuPd tetrapods. The mass activity of 50‐nm CuPd tetrapods was 0.29 A mgPd−1, which was superior to that of commercial Pt/C and most Pd‐based catalysts reported to date. Mechanistic studies revealed that the enhanced performance could be attributed to the synergy of the alloy effect and sharp‐tip effect, both of which enable the accumulation of negative charges on the Pd atoms at the vertices of the tetrapods. The high negative charge density of the Pd atoms at the vertices lowers the Pd d‐band center and, thus, its oxygen adsorption energy. This work provides a pathway to improve the activity of ORR catalysts by modulating their electronic structures, which opens up new sight to design promising non‐Pt catalysts for the ORR.
Single‐Particle Studies to Advance the Characterization of Heterogeneous Biocatalysts
Authors: Benítez‐Mateos Ana I. , Nidetzky Bernd , Bolivar Juan M. , López‐Gallego Fernando
Published: October 2017

Immobilized enzymes have been widely exploited because they work as heterogeneous biocatalysts, allowing their recovery and reutilization and easing the downstream processing once the chemical reactions are completed. Unfortunately, we suffer a lack of analytical methods to characterize those heterogeneous biocatalysts at microscopic and molecular levels with spatio‐temporal resolution, which limits their design and optimization. Single‐particle studies are vital to optimize the performance of immobilized enzymes in micro/nanoscopic environments. In this Concept article, we review different analytical techniques that address single‐particle studies to image the spatial distribution of the enzymes across the solid surfaces, the sub‐particle substrate diffusion, the structural integrity and mobility of the immobilized enzymes inside the solid particles, and the pH and O2 internal gradients. From our view, such sub‐particle information elicited from single‐particle analysis is paramount for the design and fabrication of optimal heterogeneous biocatalyst.
Spin‐Forbidden Reactions: Adiabatic Transition States Using Spin–Orbit Coupled Density Functional Theory
Authors: Gaggioli Carlo Alberto , Belpassi Leonardo , Tarantelli Francesco , Harvey Jeremy N. , Belanzoni Paola
Published: October 2017

A spin‐forbidden chemical reaction involves a change in the total electronic spin state from reactants to products. The mechanistic study is challenging because such a reaction does not occur on a single diabatic potential energy surface (PES), but rather on two (or multiple) spin diabatic PESs. One possible approach is to calculate the so‐called “minimum energy crossing point” (MECP) between the diabatic PESs, which however is not a stationary point. Inclusion of spin–orbit coupling between spin states (SOC approach) allows the reaction to occur on a single adiabatic PES, in which a transition state (TS SOC) as well as activation free energy can be calculated. This Concept article summarizes a previously published application in which, for the first time, the SOC effects, using spin–orbit ZORA Hamiltonian within density functional theory (DFT) framework, are included and account for the mechanism of a spin‐forbidden reaction in gold chemistry. The merits of the MECP and TS SOC approaches and the accuracy of the results are compared, considering both our recent calculations on molecular oxygen addition to gold(I)‐hydride complexes and new calculations for the prototype spin‐forbidden N2O and N2Se dissociation reactions.
Exploring potentialities and limitations of stapled o‐oligo(phenyleneethynylene)s (o‐OPEs) as efficient circularly polarized luminescence emitters
Authors: Reiné Pablo , Justicia José , Morcillo Sara P. , Mazzeo Giuseppe , García‐Fernández Emilio , Rodríguez‐Diéguez Antonio , Álvarez de Cienfuegos Luis , Abbate Sergio , Cuerva Juan M. , Longhi Giovanna , Miguel Delia
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we have studied the chiroptical properties of a family of o‐oligo(phenyleneethynylene) (o‐OPE) derivatives with different steric hindrance. Experimental results show high dissymmetry factors (gabs and glum up to 1.1 × 10−2) and very similar electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) for all the derivatives that make this basic o‐OPE scaffold a robust pure organic emitter. Vibrational circular dichroism spectra are used to characterize conformational properties in solution. Density functional theory and time‐dependent density functional theory calculations support experimental results also proving that ECD and CPL are almost exclusively linked to helical moiety and not to size or conformation of substituents. As chiroptical properties of these emitters are independent of substituents, this OPE scaffold can be used as basic skeleton for the design of sensing probes with high CPL efficiencies.
Physical driving force of actomyosin motility based on the hydration effect
Authors: Suzuki Makoto , Mogami George , Ohsugi Hideyuki , Watanabe Takahiro , Matubayasi Nobuyuki
Published: October 2017

We propose a driving force hypothesis based on previous thermodynamics, kinetics and structural data as well as additional experiments and calculations presented here on water‐related phenomena in the actomyosin systems. Although Szent‐Györgyi pointed out the importance of water in muscle contraction in 1951, few studies have focused on the water science of muscle because of the difficulty of analyzing hydration properties of the muscle proteins, actin, and myosin. The thermodynamics and energetics of muscle contraction are linked to the water‐mediated regulation of protein–ligand and protein–protein interactions along with structural changes in protein molecules. In this study, we assume the following two points: (1) the periodic electric field distribution along an actin filament (F‐actin) is unidirectionally modified upon binding of myosin subfragment 1 (M or myosin S1) with ADP and inorganic phosphate Pi (M.ADP.Pi complex) and (2) the solvation free energy of myosin S1 depends on the external electric field strength and the solvation free energy of myosin S1 in close proximity to F‐actin can become the potential force to drive myosin S1 along F‐actin. The first assumption is supported by integration of experimental reports. The second assumption is supported by model calculations utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to determine solvation free energies of a small organic molecule and two small proteins. MD simulations utilize the energy representation method (ER) and the roughly proportional relationship between the solvation free energy and the solvent‐accessible surface area (SASA) of the protein. The estimated driving force acting on myosin S1 is as high as several piconewtons (pN), which is consistent with the experimentally observed force.
All bonds are not alike: A psychoendocrine evaluation of infant attachment
Authors: Gaudin Sabrina , Chaillou Elodie , Wycke Marie‐Anne , Cornilleau Fabien , Moussu Chantal , Calandreau Ludovic , Lainé Anne‐Lyse , Nowak Raymond
Published: October 2017

Characteristics of attachment were assessed in peer‐ and object‐reared lambs, and compared to mothered subjects by taking into consideration distress, proximity seeking, and exploration during two separation‐reunion tests in both the familiar and a novel environment. Plasma cortisol and oxytocin were assayed as physiological indicators of stress and being comforted during the separation‐reunion test. Rewarding properties of the familiar figures were also determined in a conditioned place preference‐like paradigm. Between‐group analysis revealed the existence of secure attachment with the mother, alteration of secure attachment with the peer and weaker attachment with the object. Weaker attachment was expressed by a lack of distress during separation in the home pen and no preference for the place conditioned with the familiar object. Elevated basal plasma oxytocin levels, but not cortisol, observed in maternally deprived lambs were more likely linked to the absence of a maternal figure rather than social comfort during reunion.
Development of a bicistronic expression system in the branchiopod crustacean Daphnia magna
Authors: Kumagai Hitoshi , Matsuura Tomoaki , Kato Yasuhiko , Watanabe Hajime
Published: October 2017

The viral 2A peptides have recently been used for bicistronic expression in various organisms. In this system, a single mRNA that codes for two proteins flanking the 2A peptide can be translated simultaneously into each protein by ribosomal skipping at this peptide sequence. Here, we tested the function of the Thosea asigna insect virus 2A (T2A) peptide in the branchiopod crustacean Daphnia magna—an emerging model of evolutionary developmental biology. First, we used transgenic Daphnia that expresses a potential bicistronic RNA containing mCherry and histone H2B‐ green fluorescent protein (GFP) open reading frames upstream and downstream of the T2A sequence, respectively. Microscopic observation revealed difference of localization of the two proteins in the cell, homogenous distribution of mCherry and nuclear localization of H2B‐GFP. Second, we changed localization of mCherry from cytoplasm to plasma membrane by attachment of a consensus myristoylation motif in the bicistronic reporter. RNA that codes for this new bicistronic reporter was injected into eggs. At gastrulation stage, we found spectrally distinct fluorescence with enough intensity and resolution to detect membrane localized mCherry and nuclear GFP. These results indicate that the T2A peptide functions in D. magna and T2A‐mediated bicistronic expression would be a promising tool for evo‐devo studies of this species.
Cyclometallated Platinum(II) Complexes with a Phenylpropene‐Derived π/σ‐Chelator and N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Huynh Han Vinh , Pham Van Thong , Chi Nguyen Thi Thanh
Published: October 2017

A series of heteroleptic platinum(II) complexes of the general formula [PtX(iPrEug)(NHC)] (2–7) bearing the organometallic π/σ‐chelator iPrEug (isopropyl eugenoxyacetate), with varying X (halido) and NHC (N‐heterocyclic carbene) ligands derived from imidazole, benzimidazole, and triazole, were prepared and fully characterized by elemental analyses, ESI mass spectrometry, and IR and NMR spectroscopy. Complexes 3 and 5–7 were also characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. These air‐stable complexes are rare examples of platinum(II) compounds containing three different types of carbon donors, that is, aryl, carbene, and olefin. Unsymmetrical NHCs led to rotameric pairs of 4 and 5 exhibiting different NMR spectroscopic features. Spectroscopic studies also revealed that the introduction of a NHC leads to a weakening of the metal–olefin bond and strengthening of the metal–aryl bond. On the other hand, backbone and thus electronic variations among the NHCs show little influence on the bonding of the iPrEug chelator.
Stereoelectronic Effects on Dienophile Separation Influence the Diels–Alder Synthesis of Molecular Clefts
Authors: Stoermer Martin J. , Wickramasinghe Wasantha A. , Byriel Karl A. , Hockless David C. R. , Skelton Brian W. , Sobolev Alexandre N. , White Allan H. , Mak Jeffrey Y. W. , Fairlie David P.
Published: October 2017

The formal cycloaddition adduct of 1,4‐benzoquinone with two equivalents of cyclopentadiene is a scaffold with two non‐conjugated alkenes. Both alkenes undergo endo [4+2] cycloaddition with a diene to form a rigid U‐shaped molecular cleft. Here we show experimental, computational and structural evidence that π interactions between the alkenes affect structural rigidity, Diels–Alder reactivity, cleft formation and host–guest capture.
Sodium Phenoxide Mediated Hydroxymethylation of Alkynylsilanes with N‐[(Trimethylsiloxy)methyl]phthalimide
Authors: Asano Narumi , Sasaki Keita , Chataigner Isabelle , Shigeno Masanori , Kondo Yoshinori
Published: October 2017

The hydroxymethylation of alkynylsilanes with formaldehyde generated in situ from N‐[(trimethylsiloxy)methyl]phthalimide proceeds in the presence of a stoichiometric amount of NaOPh. The reaction occurs at room temperature by using an operationally simple one‐step procedure. A variety of alkynylsilanes possessing electron‐donating, electron‐withdrawing, and halogen groups (including heteroaryl‐substituted alkynylsilanes) provide hydroxymethylated products.
Performance investigation of an advanced hybrid renewable energy system in indonesia
Authors: Shezan S.K.A. , Al‐Mamoon A. , Ping H.W.
Published: October 2017

The vast percentage of people of the world; particularly in the developing countries; are living mostly in the decentralized, rural and remote areas those are geographically secluded from the grid connection. Power distribution and continuous fuel transportation to produce the electrical energy for these areas pretenses a great challenge. Using renewable energy resources in off grid hybrid energy system might be a solution of this problem. Moreover, high cost of renewable energy systems has led to its slow adoption in many countries. Hence, it is vital to select an appropriate size of the system in order to reduce the cost and excess energy produced as well as to maximize the available resources. A hybrid energy system has been designed as well as simulated to support a small community considering an average load demand of 80 kWh/d with a peak load of 8.1 kW. The simulation and optimization of operations of the system have been done by HOMER software using the real time field data of solar radiation and average wind speed data of that area. The simulation ensures that the system is suitably feasible with respect to net present cost and CO2 emission reduction purpose. The result shows that NPC and CO2 emission can be reduced about 29.65% and 16 tons per year respectively compared with the conventional power plants. The NPC of the optimized system has been found about USD 160,626.00 having the per unit Cost of Energy about USD 0.431/kWh. The analyzed hybrid energy system might be applicable for other region of the world where the climate conditions are similar. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1424–1432, 2018
Comparison of the combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of inedible Crambe abyssinica biodiesel and edible hazelnut, corn, soybean, sunflower, and canola biodiesels
Authors: Uyaroğlu Ayhan , Uyumaz Ahmet , Çelikten İsmet
Published: October 2017

In this study, the effects of hazelnut oil–diesel (H30), corn oil–diesel (C30), soybean oil–diesel (S30), sunflower oil–diesel (Su30), canola oil–diesel (Ca30) and Crambe abyssinica oil–diesel (Cr30) and diesel fuel blends were investigated on combustion characteristics, engine performance and NOx, CO, HC, and soot emissions. A single cylinder, four stroke, direct injection diesel engine was operated at maximum brake torque engine speed of 2200 rpm and 7.5, 11.25, 15, and 18.75 Nm engine loads. Test results showed that thermal efficiency decreased by about 3.1, 6.44, 7.08, 7.40, 8.76, and 11.68% with H30, C30, S30, Su30, Ca30, and Cr30 compared to D100 at full load, respectively. There was no big differences on cylinder pressure between test fuels. However, higher heat release rate was obtained with D100 according to fuel blends due to higher calorific value of D100. Test results also showed that HC, CO, and soot emissions decreased with biodiesel fuel blends compared to diesel fuel for all engine loads while NOx emissions increased. At full load, HC and CO decreased by about 81.2 and 21.5%, respectively, with C30 compared to diesel. Similarly, soot reduced 51.3% with Su30 compared to diesel at the same engine load. However, NOx increased 15.8% with C30 according to diesel at full load. It was concluded that biodiesel–diesel fuel blends can be used efficiently in a diesel engine. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1438–1447, 2018
Production of furan based biofuel with an environmental benign carbon catalyst
Authors: Vi Tran Thi Tuong , Kongparakul Suwadee , Reubroycharoen Prasert , Guan Guoqing , Nguyen Manh Huan , Chanlek Narong , Samart Chanatip
Published: October 2017

A sulfonated carbon material was developed and investigated as an environmentally benign catalyst for furfural production. The sulfonic acid functionality was introduced by sequential hydrothermal carbonization and sulfonation of xylose. The morphology and textural properties were examined by scanning electron microscopy and N2 sorption measurements, respectively. The presence of sulfonic acid on the surface was proven by both Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. Meanwhile, the acid properties were studied using an NH3‐TPD profile. Two different sulfonated carbons that was activated with KOH before sulfonation and one that was compared. The KOH‐activated sulfonated carbon contained both a porous structure and a high sulfonic acid content that improved the furfural yield and selectivity by more than 50% compared to the nonactivated sulfonated carbon. The reusability of the catalyst was investigated by monitoring the furfural selectivity over several reaction cycles, and after the 3rd cycle, a reduction in the selectivity from 72 to 30% was observed. However, the acid‐functionalized carbon could still be useful for furfural production due to its low environmental impact in both the preparation and disposal steps. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1455–1461, 2018
Kallikrein 6 secreted by oligodendrocytes regulates the progression of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Bando Yoshio , Hagiwara Yoshiaki , Suzuki Yasuhiro , Yoshida Kosuke , Aburakawa Yoko , Kimura Takashi , Murakami Chisato , Ono Miyuki , Tanaka Tatsuhide , Jiang Ying‐Ping , Mitrovi Branka , Bochimoto Hiroki , Yahara Osamu , Yoshida Shigetaka
Published: October 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS), and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a well‐established animal model of the disease. Here, we examined the pathophysiological role of Kallikrein 6 (Klk6), a serine protease produced by oligodendrocytes (OLs), in EAE using Klk6 knockout (Klk6−/−) mice. Compared with Klk6+/+ (wild‐type) mice, Klk6−/− mice showed milder EAE symptoms, including delayed onset and milder paralysis. Loss of Klk6 suppressed matrix metalloprotease‐9 expression and diminished the infiltration of peripheral inflammatory cells into the CNS by decreasing blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability and reducing expression levels of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and their receptors. Scanning electron microscopic analysis revealed demyelination characterized by myelin detachment from the axons in the early phase of EAE progression (days 3–7) in Klk6+/+ mice but not in Klk6−/− mice. Interestingly, anti‐MOG (myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein) autoantibody was also detected in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and spinal cord on day 3 after MOG immunization. Furthermore, treatment of primary cultured OLs with anti‐MOG autoantibody induced oligodendroglial morphological changes and increases in myelin basic protein and Klk6 expression. We also developed a novel enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay method for detecting activated KLK6 in human CSF. In human autopsy brain samples, expression of active KLK6 was detected in OLs using an antibody that specifically recognizes the protein's activated form. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that Klk6 secreted by OLs plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of EAE/MS and that it might serve as a potential therapeutic target for MS.
Top–down signal transmission and global hyperconnectivity in auditory‐visual synesthesia: Evidence from a functional EEG resting‐state study
Authors: Brauchli Christian , Elmer Stefan , Rogenmoser Lars , Burkhard Anja , Jäncke Lutz
Published: October 2017

Auditory‐visual (AV) synesthesia is a rare phenomenon in which an auditory stimulus induces a “concurrent” color sensation. Current neurophysiological models of synesthesia mainly hypothesize “hyperconnected” and “hyperactivated” brains, but differ in the directionality of signal transmission. The two‐stage model proposes bottom–up signal transmission from inducer‐ to concurrent‐ to higher‐order brain areas, whereas the disinhibited feedback model postulates top–down signal transmission from inducer‐ to higher‐order‐ to concurrent brain areas. To test the different models of synesthesia, we estimated local current density, directed and undirected connectivity patterns in the intracranial space during 2 min of resting‐state (RS) EEG in 11 AV synesthetes and 11 nonsynesthetes. AV synesthetes demonstrated increased parietal theta, alpha, and lower beta current density compared to nonsynesthetes. Furthermore, AV synesthetes were characterized by increased top–down signal transmission from the superior parietal lobe to the left color processing area V4 in the upper beta frequency band. Analyses of undirected connectivity revealed a global, synesthesia‐specific hyperconnectivity in the alpha frequency band. The involvement of the superior parietal lobe even during rest is a strong indicator for its key role in AV synesthesia. By demonstrating top–down signal transmission in AV synesthetes, we provide direct support for the disinhibited feedback model of synesthesia. Finally, we suggest that synesthesia is a consequence of global hyperconnectivity. Hum Brain Mapp 39:522–531, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adenovirus‐mediated human aquaporin‐1 expression in hepatocytes improves lipopolysaccharide‐induced cholestasis
Authors: Marrone Julieta , Danielli Mauro , Gaspari César I. , Marinelli Raúl A.
Published: October 2017

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are known to cause cholestasis in sepsis. There is evidence that a defective expression of canalicular aquaporin water channels contributes to bile secretory failure in LPS‐induced cholestasis. Thus, we studied whether the hepatic adenovirus‐mediated transfer of human aquaporin‐1 gene (haqp1) can improve the cholestasis induced by LPS. Adenoviral vector encoding hAQP1 (AdhAQP1) or control vector was administered to rats by retrograde intrabiliary infusion. Hepatocyte canalicular hAQP1 expression was assessed by liver immunostaining and immunoblotting in purified plasma membranes. LPS reduced bile flow and biliary bile acid excretion by 30% and 45%, respectively. AdhAQP1‐treatment normalized both bile flow and biliary bile acid excretion in LPS‐induced cholestasis. Moreover, markedly elevated serum bile acid levels in cholestatic rats, were also normalized with the AdhAQP1 hepatic transduction. Bile flow and serum or biliary bile acids in normal rats were not significantly altered by AdhAQP1. AdhAQP1 delivery unaffected the downregulated protein expression of canalicular bile salt export pump (BSEP/ABCB11) in cholestasis, but improved its transport activity restoring reduced canalicular cholesterol content. Our data suggest that the adenovirus‐mediated hepatocyte hAQP1 expression improves LPS‐induced cholestasis in rats by stimulating the BSEP/ABCB11‐mediated biliary bile acid excretion; a finding that might contribute to the understanding and treatment of sepsis‐associated cholestatic diseases. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(12):978–984, 2017
Effects of computer‐based training on procedural modifications to standard functional analyses
Authors: Schnell Lauren K. , Sidener Tina M. , DeBar Ruth M. , Vladescu Jason C. , Kahng SungWoo
Published: October 2017

Few studies have evaluated methods for training decision‐making when functional analysis data are undifferentiated. The current study evaluated computer‐based training to teach 20 graduate students to arrange functional analysis conditions, analyze functional analysis data, and implement procedural modifications. Participants were exposed to training materials using interactive software during a 1‐day session. Following the training, mean scores on the posttest, novel cases probe, and maintenance probe increased for all participants. These results replicate previous findings during a 1‐day session and include a measure of participant acceptability of the training. Recommendations for future research on computer‐based training and functional analysis are discussed.
Bone Status Among Patients With Nonsurgical Hypoparathyroidism, Autosomal Dominant Hypocalcaemia, and Pseudohypoparathyroidism: A Cohort Study
Authors: Underbjerg Line , Malmstroem Sofie , Sikjaer Tanja , Rejnmark Lars
Published: October 2017

Nonsurgical hypoparathyroidism (Ns-HypoPT) and pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) are both rare diseases, characterized by hypocalcemia. In Ns-HypoPT, PTH levels are low, whereas patients with PHP often have very high levels due to receptor-insensitivity to PTH (PTH-resistance). Accordingly, we hypothesized that indices of bone turnover and bone mineralization/architecture are similar in Ns-HypoPT and PHP despite marked differences in PTH levels. We studied 62 patients with Ns-HypoPT and 31 with PHP as well as a group of age- and sex-matched healthy controls. We found a significantly higher areal BMD (aBMD) by DXA among patients with Ns-HypoPT, both compared with PHP and the background population. Compared with Ns-HypoPT, PHP patients had significantly lower total and trabecular volumetric BMD (vBMD) assessed by quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scans at the spine and hip. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HRpQCT) scans showed a lower trabecular area and vBMD as well as a lower trabecular number at the tibia in PHP compared to Ns-HypoPT and matched controls. In PHP, PTH levels correlated with levels of markers of bone formation (osteocalcin, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, P1NP), and bone resorption (CTx). In adult males, levels of bone markers were significantly higher in PHP compared with Ns-HypoPT. Levels of procalcitonin and calcitonin were significantly higher in PHP compared with Ns-HypoPT. In conclusion, indices of bone turnover, density, and microarchitecture differ between patients with Ns-HypoPT and PHP. Our data suggest that patients with PHP do not have a complete skeletal resistance to PTH and that the effects of chronically high PTH levels in PHP are mostly confined to the trabecular tissue. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Unrestricted somatic stem cells, as a novel feeder layer: Ex vivo culture of human limbal stem cells
Authors: Shirzadeh Ebrahim , Heidari Keshel Saeed , Ezzatizadeh Vahid , Jabbehdari Sayena , Baradaran‐Rafii Alireza
Published: October 2017

Ex vivo culture of limbal stem cells (LSCs) is a current promising approach for reconstruction of the ocular surface. In this context, 3T3 feeder layer cells (mouse embryo fibroblast) are generally utilized to maintain and expand LSCs. The aim of this study is to develop a novel culture method (animal‐derived products free) to expand LSCs, using umbilical cord derived human unrestricted somatic stem cells (hUSSCs) instead of 3T3 cell with an emphasis on maintaining of the Stemness in LSCs. Using flow‐cytometer, isolated hUSSCs were characterized for CD105, CD90, CD166, CD34, CD45, CD31 cell surface markers and their differentiation capability into adipogenic as well as osteogenic lineages were evaluated. In addition to colony‐forming efficiency (CFE), epithelial lineage differentiation and karyotyping, LSC properties were evaluated for ABCG2, ΔNP63‐α, CK19, CK3, and CK12 mRNA and protein expressions using quantitative RT‐PCR (qRT‐PCR) and immunocytochemistry, when these cells were co‐cultured with hUSSCs (in comparison with 3T3 feeder layer). LSCs, co‐cultured with hUSSCs, showed normal karyotype (46, XX), while they could efficiently form colony (86 ± 3) and display up‐regulation of the genes associated with stemness and down‐regulation of corneal epithelial differentiation genes. Consistent with 3T3 feeder cells, hUSSCs with spindle‐shaped morphology and quick splitting up properties had ability to preserve the stem like‐cell phenotype of LSCs. These findings were confirmed by qRT‐PCR and flow‐cytometer. Findings of present study suggest hUSSCs as a promising alternative method for 3T3 feeder layer cells, to preserve growth and stemness of LSCs ex vivo culture.
Pulmonary ventilation imaging in asthma and cystic fibrosis using oxygen‐enhanced 3D radial ultrashort echo time MRI
Authors: Zha Wei , Kruger Stanley J. , Johnson Kevin M. , Cadman Robert V. , Bell Laura C. , Liu Fang , Hahn Andrew D. , Evans Michael D. , Nagle Scott K. , Fain Sean B.
Published: October 2017

Background

A previous study demonstrated the feasibility of using 3D radial ultrashort echo time (UTE) oxygen‐enhanced MRI (UTE OE‐MRI) for functional imaging of healthy human lungs. The repeatability of quantitative measures from UTE OE‐MRI needs to be established prior to its application in clinical research.

Purpose

To evaluate repeatability of obstructive patterns in asthma and cystic fibrosis (CF) with UTE OE‐MRI with isotropic spatial resolution and full chest coverage.

Study Type

Volunteer and patient repeatability.

Population

Eighteen human subjects (five asthma, six CF, and seven normal subjects).

Field Strength/Sequence

Respiratory‐gated free‐breathing 3D radial UTE (80 μs) sequence at 1.5T.

Assessment

Two 3D radial UTE volumes were acquired sequentially under normoxic and hyperoxic conditions. A subset of subjects underwent repeat acquisitions on either the same day or ≤15 days apart. Asthma and CF subjects also underwent spirometry. A workflow including deformable registration and retrospective lung density correction was used to compute 3D isotropic percent signal enhancement (PSE) maps. Median PSE (MPSE) and ventilation defect percent (VDP) of the lung were measured from the PSE map.

Statistical Tests

The relations between MPSE, VDP, and spirometric measures were assessed using Spearman correlations. The test–retest repeatability was evaluated using Bland–Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).

Results

Ventilation measures in normal subjects (MPSE = 8.0%, VDP = 3.3%) were significantly different from those in asthma (MPSE = 6.0%, P = 0.042; VDP = 21.7%, P = 0.018) and CF group (MPSE = 4.5%, P = 0.0006; VDP = 27.2%, P = 0.002). MPSE correlated significantly with forced expiratory lung volume in 1 second percent predicted (ρ = 0.72, P = 0.017). The ICC of the test–retest VDP and MPSE were both ≥0.90. In all subject groups, an anterior/posterior gradient was observed with higher MPSE and lower VDP in the posterior compared to anterior regions (P ≤ 0.0021 for all comparisons).

Data Conclusion

3D radial UTE OE‐MRI supports quantitative differentiation of diseased vs. healthy lungs using either whole lung VDP or MPSE with excellent test–retest repeatability.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1287–1297.
Correlation between glycolytic activity on [18F]‐FDG‐PET and cell density on diffusion‐weighted MRI in lymphoma at staging
Authors: Giraudo Chiara , Karanikas Georgios , Weber Michael , Raderer Markus , Jaeger Ulrich , Simonitsch‐Klupp Ingrid , Mayerhoefer Marius E.
Published: October 2017

Background

[18F]‐FDG‐PET/MR carries a high diagnostic value in whole‐body oncologic imaging and allows simultaneous quantitative measurements of glucose metabolism (SUV) and cell density (ADC).

Purpose

To determine the relationship between SUV and ADC values extracted from simultaneously acquired [18F]‐FDG‐PET/MR data of patients with FDG‐avid lymphomas at staging.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Patients with histologically proven lymphoma referred for staging.

Field Strength/Sequences

Hybrid PET/MR device (3T); axial, two‐point Dixon, 3D, volume‐interpolated, T1‐weighted breath‐hold sequence; coronal T2‐weighted half‐Fourier acquisition single‐shot turbo spin‐echo. Single‐shot, echo‐planar imaging‐based, spectral adiabatic inversion recovery diffusion‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

Staging was performed according to the modified Ann Arbor system by a board‐certified radiologist and a board‐certified nuclear medicine physician, blinded to the clinical and histological information, in consensus. SUVs and ADCs values were collected, for each positive nodal and extranodal region, from the lesion demonstrating the largest diameter.

Statistical Tests

Descriptive data included absolute frequencies and percentages for categorical data, and arithmetic means and 95% confidence intervals for scale‐type data. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between SUVs and ADCs (P ≤ 0.05). Additional separate analyses were performed according to histological lymphoma subtype, for nodal and extranodal lesions and excluding bone lesions.

Results

Overall, 100 patients were examined (55 males, 45 females; age ± SD in years, 51.6 ± 19.5). Histology revealed Hodgkin‐lymphoma and non‐Hodgkin‐lymphoma in 26 and 74 patients, respectively. Twenty patients were stage I, 21 stage II, 24 stage III, and 31 stage IV on [18F]‐FDG‐PET/MR (ie, four patients negative at imaging). Based on 391 lesions (ie, 367 excluding bone lesions) no significant correlations between SUVmax and ADCmin, or between SUVmean and ADCmean, emerged (respectively, r = 0.091, P = 0.073, 95% CI [–0.01, 0.19] and r = –0.032, P = 0.527, 95% CI [–0.13, 0.07] including bone lesions; r = 0.06, P = 0.21, 95% CI [–0.04, 0.17] and r = –0.05, P = 0.32, 95% CI [–0.15, 0.05] excluding bone lesions). A significant correlation was observed only between ADCmean and SUVmean for follicular lymphoma (r = −0.33, P = 0.001).

Data Conclusion

SUVs and ADCs were demonstrated to be independent biomarkers in lymphomas. A moderate correlation between SUVs and ADCs likely is present in follicular lymphoma.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1217–1226.
Quantitative fingerprinting based on the limited‐ratio quantified fingerprint method for an overall quality consistency assessment and antioxidant activity determination of Lianqiao Baidu pills using HPLC with a diode array detector combined with chemometric methods
Authors: Chen Shuai , Sun Guoxiang , Ma Didi , Yang Lanping , Zhang Jing
Published: October 2017

Lianqiao Baidu pills are widely used herbal medicinal preparation that were analyzed to develop a quality consistency technique. The characteristic fingerprints of 28 batches of Lianqiao Baidu pill samples were established at five wavelengths and simultaneously assessed by using a limited‐ratio quantified fingerprint method using 15 marker compounds. The principal component analysis and fingerprinting results were compared, and the qualitative classification of the samples by principal component analysis agreed with their quantitative evaluation by the limited‐ratio quantified fingerprint method. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of the samples were surveyed and determined using a 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical‐scavenging approach. A relationship between the common peaks in the fingerprints and the antioxidant activities was established using a partial least squares model. The relationship can be used both to determine the antioxidant activities of the Lianqiao Baidu pill preparations in vitro and as a reference for the selection of active constituents for sample quality classification. The classification results for the samples based on principal component analysis agreed with the quantitative evaluation by the limited‐ratio quantified fingerprint method, which demonstrated that the method can be applied to the holistic quality control of traditional Chinese medicine and herbal preparations.
A 48‐Hour Vegan Diet Challenge in Healthy Women and Men Induces a BRANCH‐Chain Amino Acid Related, Health Associated, Metabolic Signature
Authors: Draper Colleen Fogarty , Vassallo Irene , Di Cara Alessandro , Milone Cristiana , Comminetti Ornella , Monnard Irina , Godin Jean‐Philippe , Scherer Max , Su MingMing , Jia Wei , Guiraud Seu‐Ping , Praplan Fabienne , Guignard Laurence , Ammon Zufferey Corinne , Shevlyakova Maya , Emami Nashmil , Moco Sofia , Beaumont Maurice , Kaput Jim , Martin Francois‐Pierre
Published: October 2017

Scope

Research is limited on diet challenges to improve health. A short‐term, vegan protein diet regimen nutritionally balanced in macronutrient composition compared to an omnivorous diet is hypothesized to improve metabolic measurements of blood sugar regulation, blood lipids, and amino acid metabolism.

Methods and results

This randomized, cross‐over, controlled vegan versus animal diet challenge is conducted on 21 (11 female,10 male) healthy participants. Fasting plasma is measured during a 3 d diet intervention for clinical biochemistry and metabonomics. Intervention diet plans meet individual caloric needs. Meals are provided and supervised. Diet compliance is monitored.

Conclusions

The vegan diet lowers triglycerides, insulin and homeostatic model assessment (HOMA‐IR), bile acids, elevated magnesium levels, and changed branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) metabolism (p < 0.05), potentiating insulin and blood sugar control after 48 h. Cholesterol control improves significantly in the vegan versus omnivorous diets. Plasma amino acid and magnesium concentrations positively correlate with dietary amino acids. Polyunsaturated fatty acids and dietary fiber inversely correlate with insulin, HOMA‐IR, and triglycerides. Nutritional biochemistries, BCAAs, insulin, and HOMA‐IR are impacted by sexual dimorphism. A health‐promoting, BCAA‐associated metabolic signature is produced from a short‐term, healthy, controlled, vegan diet challenge when compared with a healthy, controlled, omnivorous diet.
Polyhedral results, branch‐and‐cut and Lagrangian relaxation algorithms for the adjacent only quadratic minimum spanning tree problem
Authors: Pereira Dilson Lucas , da Cunha Alexandre Salles
Published: October 2017

Given a complete and undirected graph G, the adjacent only quadratic minimum spanning tree problem (AQMSTP) consists of finding a spanning tree that minimizes a quadratic function of its adjacent edges. The strongest AQMSTP linear integer programming formulation in the literature works on an extended variable space, using exponentially many decision variables assigned to the stars of G. In this article, we characterize three families of facet defining inequalities by investigating the projection of that formulation onto the space of the canonical linearization variables. On the algorithmic side, we introduce four new branch‐and‐bound algorithms. Three of them are branch‐and‐cut algorithms based on the inequalities characterized by projection. The fourth is based on a Lagrangian relaxation scheme, also devised for the star reformulation. Two of the branch‐and‐cut algorithms provide very good results, almost always dominating the previously best algorithm for the problem. The Lagrangian relaxation based branch‐and‐bound algorithm provides even better results. It manages to solve all previously solved AQMSTP instances in the literature in about one tenth of the time needed by its competitors. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 71(1), 31–50 2018
Optimal and heuristic network coding algorithms for multi‐layered video broadcast
Authors: Bérczi‐Kovács Erika R. , Király Zoltán
Published: October 2017

In this article we give network coding algorithms for multi‐layered video streaming. The problem is motivated by video broadcasting in a communication network to users with varying demands. We give a polynomial time algorithm for deciding feasibility for the case of two layers, and show that the problem becomes NP‐hard if the task is to maximize the number of satisfied demands. For the case of three layers we also show NP‐hardness of the problem. Finally, we propose a heuristic for three layers and give experimental comparison with previous approaches. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 71(1), 51–59 2018
Back to Basics? No Weight Loss from Motivational Interviewing Compared to Nutrition Psychoeducation at One‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Barnes Rachel D. , Ivezaj Valentina , Martino Steve , Pittman Brian P. , Grilo Carlos M.
Published: October 2017

Objective

Weight loss interventions have begun to receive increasing attention in primary care. Motivational interviewing (MI) is compatible with primary care because it requires relatively limited time and resources. Few studies, however, have examined the long‐term impact of MI for weight loss in primary care, and none have used attention‐control comparisons. This study was the first randomized controlled trial with a 12‐month follow‐up of two Web‐supported interventions: motivational interviewing and internet condition (MIC) and nutrition psychoeducation and internet condition (NPC).

Methods

Fifty‐nine patients with overweight or obesity, with and without binge‐eating disorder (BED), were randomized to treatments and assessed at 12‐month follow‐up after completing 3‐month treatments in primary care (15 months total).

Results

Mixed models examining weight loss at 12 months revealed a group and time interaction effect trend (P = 0.054; d′ = 0.57). Secondary end point analysis showed a decrease (−1.7%) versus an increase (1.3%) in weight at 12 months among NPC and MIC patients, respectively (P = 0.056; d′ = 0.57). Overall, 5 of 44 (11.4%) participants lost or maintained 5% weight losses; differences between treatments were not significant. BED status did not impact weight loss.

Conclusions

Two brief and scalable weight loss interventions resulted in small effect sizes for weight loss 12 months following treatment conclusion. Because MIC required significantly more resources for adequate implementation, NPC may be more cost‐effective.