bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular contribution to left and right atrial dysfunction in chronic arterial hypertension in pigs
Authors: Jin Ge , Manninger Martin , Adelsmayr Gabriel , Schwarzl Michael , Alogna Alessio , Schönleitner Patrick , Zweiker David , Blaschke Florian , Sherif Mohammad , Radulovic Snjezana , Wakula Paulina , Schauer Sylvia , Höfler Gerald , Reiter Ursula , Reiter Gert , Post Heiner , Scherr Daniel , Acsai Karoly , Antoons Gudrun , Pieske Burkert , Heinzel Frank R.
Published: November 2020

Aims

Atrial contractile dysfunction contributes to worse prognosis in hypertensive heart disease (HHD), but the role of cardiomyocyte dysfunction in atrial remodelling in HHD is not well understood. We investigated and compared cellular mechanisms of left (LA) and right atrial (RA) contractile dysfunction in pigs with HHD.

Methods and results

In vivo electrophysiological and magnetic resonance imaging studies were performed in control and pigs treated with 11‐deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)/high‐salt/glucose diet (12 weeks) to induce HHD. HHD leads to significant atrial remodelling and loss of contractile function in LA and a similar trend in RA (magnetic resonance imaging). Atrial remodelling was associated with a higher inducibility of atrial fibrillation but unrelated to changes in atrial refractory period or fibrosis (histology). Reduced atrial function in DOCA pigs was related to reduced contraction amplitude of isolated LA (already at baseline) and RA myocytes (at higher frequencies) due to reduced intracellular Ca release (Fura 2‐AM, field stimulation). However, Ca regulation differed in LA and RA cardiomyocytes: LA cardiomyocytes showed reduced sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) [Ca], whereas in RA, SR [Ca] was unchanged and SR Ca2+‐ATPase activity was increased. Sodium–calcium exchanger (NCX) activity was not significantly altered. We used ORM‐10103 (3 μM), a specific NCX inhibitor to improve Ca availability in LA and RA cardiomyocytes from DOCA pigs. Partial inhibition of NCX increased Ca2+ transient amplitude and SR Ca in LA, but not RA cells.

Conclusions

In this large animal model of HHD, atrial remodelling in sinus rhythm in vivo was related to differential LA and RA cardiomyocyte dysfunction and Ca signalling. Selective acute inhibition of NCX improved Ca release in diseased LA cardiomyocytes, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach to improve atrial inotropy in HHD.
A promising Ames battery for mutagenicity characterization of new dyes
Authors: Umbuzeiro Gisela A. , Morales Daniel A. , Vacchi Francine I. , Albuquerque Anjaina F. , Szymczyk Malgorzata , Sui Xinyi , Vinueza Nelson , Freeman Harold S.
Published: November 2020

When testing new products, potential new products, or their impurities for genotoxicity in the Ames test, the quantity available for testing can be a limiting factor. This is the case for a dye repository of around 98,000 substances the Max Weaver Dye Library (MWDL). Mutagenicity data on dyes in the literature, although vast, in several cases is not reliable, compromising the performance of the in silico models. In this report, we propose a strategy for the generation of high‐quality mutagenicity data for dyes using a minimum amount of sample. We evaluated 15 dyes from different chemical classes selected from 150 representative dyes of the MWDL. The purity and molecular confirmation of each dye were determined, and the microplate agar protocol (MPA) was used. Dyes were tested at the limit of solubility in single and concentration‐response experiments using seven strains without and with metabolic activation except for anthraquinone dyes which were tested with eight strains. Six dyes were mutagenic. The most sensitive was YG1041, followed by TA97a > TA98 > TA100 = TA1538 > TA102. YG7108 as well as TA1537 did not detect any mutagenic response. We concluded that the MPA was successful in identifying the mutagenicity of dyes using less than 12.5 mg of sample. We propose that dyes should be tested in a tiered approach using YG1041 followed by TA97a, TA98, and TA100 in concentration‐response experiments. This work provides additional information on the dye mutagenicity database available in the literature.
A comparison of classical and 21st century genotoxicity tools: A proof of concept study of 18 chemicals comparing in vitro micronucleus, ToxTracker and genomics‐based methods (TGx‐DDI, whole genome clustering and connectivity mapping)
Authors: Allemang Ashley , De Abrew K. Nadira , Shan Yuqing K. , Krailler Jesse M. , Pfuhler Stefan
Published: November 2020

A key step in the risk assessment process of a substance is the assessment of its genotoxic potential. Irrespective of the industry involved, current approaches rely on combinations of two or three in vitro tests and while highly sensitive, their specificity is thought to be limited. A refined in vitro genotoxicity testing strategy with improved predictive capacity would be beneficial and “3R” friendly as it helps to avoid unnecessary in vivo follow‐up testing. Here, we describe a proof of concept study evaluating a balanced set of compounds that have in vivo negative or positive outcomes, but variable in vitro data, to determine if we could differentiate between direct and indirect acting genotoxicants. Compounds were examined in TK6 cells using an approach in which the same sample was used to evaluate both early genomic markers (Affymetrix analysis 4 hr post treatment), and the genotoxic outcome (micronuclei [MN] after 24 hr). The resulting genomic data was then analyzed using the TGx‐DDI biomarker, Connectivity mapping and whole genome clustering. Chemicals were also tested in the ToxTracker assay, which uses six different biomarker genes. None of the methods correctly differentiated all direct from indirect acting genotoxicants when used alone, however, the ToxTracker assay, TGx‐DDI biomarker and whole genome approaches provided high predictive capacity when used in combination with the MN assay (1/18, 2/18, 1/18 missed calls). Ultimately, a “fit for purpose” combination will depend on the specific tools available to the end user, as well as considerations of the unique benefits of the individual assays.
Weight bias and linguistic body representation in anorexia nervosa: Findings from the BodyTalk project
Authors: Behrens Simone Claire , Meneguzzo Paolo , Favaro Angela , Teufel Martin , Skoda Eva‐Maria , Lindner Marion , Walder Lukas , Quiros Ramirez Alejandra , Zipfel Stephan , Mohler Betty , Black Michael , Giel Katrin E.
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of own body representation and linguistic representation of bodies in general in women with typical and atypical anorexia nervosa (AN).

Methods

In a series of desktop experiments, participants rated a set of adjectives according to their match with a series of computer generated bodies varying in body mass index, and generated prototypic body shapes for the same set of adjectives. We analysed how body mass index of the bodies was associated with positive or negative valence of the adjectives in the different groups. Further, body image and own body perception were assessed.

Results

In a German‐Italian sample comprising 39 women with AN, 20 women with atypical AN and 40 age matched control participants, we observed effects indicative of weight stigmatization, but no significant differences between the groups. Generally, positive adjectives were associated with lean bodies, whereas negative adjectives were associated with obese bodies.

Discussion

Our observations suggest that patients with both typical and atypical AN affectively and visually represent body descriptions not differently from healthy women. We conclude that overvaluation of low body weight and fear of weight gain cannot be explained by generally distorted perception or cognition, but require individual consideration.
The impact of trophic and immunomodulatory factors on oligodendrocyte maturation: Potential treatments for encephalopathy of prematurity
Authors: Vaes Josine E. G. , Brandt Myrna J. V. , Wanders Nikki , Benders Manon J. N. L. , de Theije Caroline G. M. , Gressens Pierre , Nijboer Cora H.
Published: November 2020

Encephalopathy of prematurity (EoP) is a major cause of morbidity in preterm neonates, causing neurodevelopmental adversities that can lead to lifelong impairments. Preterm birth‐related insults, such as cerebral oxygen fluctuations and perinatal inflammation, are believed to negatively impact brain development, leading to a range of brain abnormalities. Diffuse white matter injury is a major hallmark of EoP and characterized by widespread hypomyelination, the result of disturbances in oligodendrocyte lineage development. At present, there are no treatment options available, despite the enormous burden of EoP on patients, their families, and society. Over the years, research in the field of neonatal brain injury and other white matter pathologies has led to the identification of several promising trophic factors and cytokines that contribute to the survival and maturation of oligodendrocytes, and/or dampening neuroinflammation. In this review, we discuss the current literature on selected factors and their therapeutic potential to combat EoP, covering a wide range of in vitro, preclinical and clinical studies. Furthermore, we offer a future perspective on the translatability of these factors into clinical practice.
Correlation between pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenetics of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Selective Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors and maternal and neonatal outcomes: Results from a naturalistic study in patients with affective disorders
Authors: Colombo Anna , Giordano Francesca , Giorgetti Federica , Di Bernardo Ilaria , Bosi Monica F. , Varinelli Alberto , Cafaro Rita , Pileri Paola , Cetin Irene , Clementi Emilio , Viganò Caterina A. , Dell'Osso Bernardo
Published: November 2020

Objective

Some studies have linked the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and selective serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs/SNRIs) to the risk of perinatal complications. This study explored the relationship between pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenetics, SSRIs/SNRIs tolerability and effectiveness and maternal and newborn outcomes.

Methods

Fifty‐five pregnant women with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM‐5) diagnoses of affective disorders, treated with SSRIs/SNRIs, were recruited and, during the third trimester, their blood samples were collected for pharmacokinetic and pharmacogenetic analyses. Plasma levels and metabolic phenotypes were then related to different obstetrical and maternal outcomes.

Results

The pharmacokinetic data were more stable for Sertraline, Citalopram, and Escitalopram compared to other molecules (p = 0.009). The occurrence of postnatal adaptation syndrome onset was associated with higher plasma levels for Sertraline (median at delivery: 16.7 vs. 10.5 ng/ml), but not for fluoxetine and venlafaxine. Finally, the subgroup within range plasma concentrations had less blood loss than the below range subgroup (p = 0.030).

Conclusions

Plasma levels of Sertraline, Citalopram and Escitalopram were more frequently in range in late pregnancy when compared to other drugs. Drug plasma concentrations do not strictly correlate with worse perinatal outcomes, but with possible differences between the different drugs.
Circulating insulin‐like growth factor‐I, total and free testosterone concentrations and prostate cancer risk in 200 000 men in UK Biobank
Authors: Watts Eleanor L. , Fensom Georgina K. , Smith Byrne Karl , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Allen Naomi E. , Knuppel Anika , Gunter Marc J. , Holmes Michael V. , Martin Richard M. , Murphy Neil , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Yeap Bu B. , Key Timothy J. , Travis Ruth C.
Published: November 2020

Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) and testosterone have been implicated in prostate cancer aetiology. Using data from a large prospective full‐cohort with standardised assays and repeat blood measurements, and genetic data from an international consortium, we investigated the associations of circulating IGF‐I, sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG), and total and calculated free testosterone concentrations with prostate cancer incidence and mortality. For prospective analyses, risk was estimated using multivariable‐adjusted Cox regression in 199 698 male UK Biobank participants. Hazard ratios (HRs) were corrected for regression dilution bias using repeat hormone measurements from a subsample. Two‐sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis of IGF‐I and risk used genetic instruments identified from UK Biobank men and genetic outcome data from the PRACTICAL consortium (79 148 cases and 61 106 controls). We used cis‐ and all (cis and trans) SNP MR approaches. A total of 5402 men were diagnosed with and 295 died from prostate cancer (mean follow‐up 6.9 years). Higher circulating IGF‐I was associated with elevated prostate cancer diagnosis (HR per 5 nmol/L increment = 1.09, 95% CI 1.05‐1.12) and mortality (HR per 5 nmol/L increment = 1.15, 1.02‐1.29). MR analyses also supported the role of IGF‐I in prostate cancer diagnosis (cis‐MR odds ratio per 5 nmol/L increment = 1.34, 1.07‐1.68). In observational analyses, higher free testosterone was associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer (HR per 50 pmol/L increment = 1.10, 1.05‐1.15). Higher SHBG was associated with a lower risk (HR per 10 nmol/L increment = 0.95, 0.94‐0.97), neither was associated with prostate cancer mortality. Total testosterone was not associated with prostate cancer. These findings implicate IGF‐I and free testosterone in prostate cancer development and/or progression.
Efficacy of hyaluronic acid on intervertebral disc inflammation: An in vitro study using notochordal cell lines and human disc cells
Authors: Yamamoto Tatsuya , Suzuki Satoshi , Fujii Takeshi , Mima Yuichiro , Watanabe Kota , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Fujita Nobuyuki
Published: November 2020

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely recognized as a therapeutic target and currently used in medicine. However, HA metabolism during intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) has not been completely elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of HA on intervertebral disc (IVD) inflammation and identify the main molecules modulating HA degradation in IVDs. To assess HA function in IVD cells in vitro, we treated human disc cells and U‐CH1‐N cells, a notochordal nucleus pulposus cell line, with HA or hyaluronidase. Real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and Western blot analysis showed that tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α)‐mediated induction of the expression of TNF‐α and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX2) was clearly neutralized by HA treatment, and the expression of TNF‐α and COX2 was significantly induced by hyaluronidase treatment in both cell types. Additionally, Western blot analysis showed that hyaluronidase‐induced phosphorylation of p38 and Erk1/2, and that TNF‐α‐mediated phosphorylation of p38 and Erk1/2 was clearly reduced by HA addition. In degenerating human IVD samples, immunohistochemistry for hyaluronidase showed that the expression of hyaluronidases including HYAL1, HYAL2, and cell migration‐inducing protein (CEMIP) tended to increase in accordance with IVDD. In particular, HYAL1 showed statistically significant differences. In vitro study also confirmed a similar phenomenon that TNF‐α treatment increased both messenger RNA and protein expression in both cell types. Our results demonstrated that HA could potentially suppress IVDD by regulating p38 and Erk1/2 pathways, and that the expression of HYAL1 was correlated with IVDD progression. These findings indicated that HYAL1 would be a potential molecular target for suppressing IVDD by controlling HA metabolism.
Melatonin improves periodontitis‐induced kidney damage by decreasing inflammatory stress and apoptosis in rats
Authors: Kose Oğuz , Kurt Bayrakdar Sevda , Unver Büsra , Altin Ahmet , Akyildiz Kerimali , Mercantepe Tolga , Bostan Semih Alperen , Arabaci Taner , Turker Sener Leyla , Emre Kose Taha , Tumkaya Levent , Yilmaz Adnan , Kuluslu Göker
Published: November 2020

Background

Two main aims of this animal study were to inspect the possible effects of periodontitis on the structure and functions of the kidneys and the therapeutic effectiveness of melatonin.

Methods

Twenty‐four male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, experimental periodontitis (Ep), and Ep‐melatonin (Ep‐Mel). Periodontitis was induced by placing 3.0‐silk sutures sub‐paramarginally around the cervix of right‐left mandibular first molars and maintaining the sutures for 5 weeks. Then melatonin (10 mg/kg body weight/day, 14 days), and the vehicle was administered intraperitonally. Mandibular and kidney tissue samples were obtained following the euthanasia. Periodontal bone loss was measured via histological and microcomputed tomographic slices. On right kidney histopathological and immunohistochemical, and on the left kidney biochemical (malonyl‐aldehyde [MDA], glutathione, oxidative stress [OSI], tumor necrosis factor [TNF]‐α, interleukin [IL]‐1β, matrix metalloproteinase [MMP]‐8, MMP‐9, and cathepsin D levels) evaluations were performed. Renal functional status was analyzed by levels of serum creatinine, urea, cystatin‐C, and urea creatinine.

Results

Melatonin significantly restricted ligature‐induced periodontal bone loss (P <0 .01) and suppressed the levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐1β), oxidative stress (MDA and OSI), and proteases (MMP‐8, MMP‐9, and CtD) that was significantly higher in the kidneys of the rats with periodontitis (P <0.05). In addition, periodontitis‐related histological damages and apoptotic activity were also significantly lower in the Ep‐Mel group (P <0.05). However, the markers of renal function of the Ep group were detected slightly impaired in comparison with the control group (P >0.05); and the therapeutic activity of melatonin was limited (P >0.05).

Conclusion

Melatonin restricts the periodontitis‐induced inflammatory stress, apoptosis, and structural but not functional impairments.
Investigation and identification of the multiple components of Rheum officinale Baill. using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry and data mining strategy
Authors: Yao Min , Li Junmao , He Mingzhen , Ouyang Hui , Ruan Lulu , Huang Xiaofang , Rao Yifei , Yang Shilin , Zhou Xiang , Bai Jiqing
Published: November 2020

Rheum officinale Baill. is a traditional Chinese medicine that has long been used for eliminating body heat, cooling and detoxifying blood, removing blood stasis and promoting menstruation, and clearing away heat‐dampness to eliminate jaundice. Comprehensive and systematic structural identification of the components of Rheum officinale Baill. remains a challenge. An appropriate analytical method needs to be established for the comprehensive investigation and identification of the chemical constituents in Rheum officinale Baill. extract. In this study, a new systematic approach using ultra high performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry in conjunction with a data mining strategy was developed to screen the targeted and nontargeted components of Rheum officinale Baill. A total of 124 compounds were identified in the Rheum officinale Baill. extract including 31 acylglucosides, 9 phenolic acids, 26 tannins, 53 anthraquinones, and 5 other compounds. Note that 55 of these compounds were reported for the first time here. In conclusion, in this study, we devised an efficient and systematic method for detecting complex compounds and have used it here to provide a foundation for future research into bioactive ingredients and quality control of Rheum officinale Baill. extract.
The Unique Versatility of the Double Metal Cyanide (DMC) Catalyst: Introducing Siloxane Segments to Polypropylene Oxide by Ring‐Opening Copolymerization
Authors: Mohr Rebecca , Wagner Manfred , Zarbakhsh Sirus , Frey Holger
Published: November 2020

The combination of hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) blocks with hydrophilic polyether segments plays a key role for silicone surfactants. Capitalizing on the double metal cyanide (DMC) catalyst, the direct (i.e., statistical) copolymerization of cyclic siloxanes and epoxides is shown to be feasible. The solvent‐free one‐pot copolymerization of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane and propylene oxide results in the formation of gradient propylene oxide (PPO)‐PDMS copolymers. Copolymers with up to 46% siloxane content with low dispersities (Ð < 1.2) are obtained in the molecular weight range of 2100–2900 g mol–1. The polymerization kinetics are investigated by pressure monitoring and in situ 1H and in situ 29Si NMR spectroscopy. Contact angle measurements reveal the impact of siloxane incorporation manifest in strongly increased hydrophobicity of PPO‐PDMS copolymers and a glass transition of −95 °C for 46% SiO content. This unusual copolymerization offers promise for the synthesis of silicone/polyether polyols.
Dental plaque removal ability of different power toothbrushes: a preliminary study of a novel automated toothbrush
Authors: Saghiri Mohammad Ali , Saghiri Ali Mohammad , Asatourian Armen , Nath Devyani
Published: November 2020

Although currently used power toothbrushes have shown promising results in comparison with manual toothbrushes, automated toothbrushes have risen recently to improve oral hygiene and fulfil the limitations of dexterity of users. The present study intends to evaluate the efficacy of dental plaque removal ability of two automated toothbrushes: V‐White and a recently developed mechanical toothbrush, Cyberbrush, with an ultrasonic power toothbrush by using the typodont model. Typodonts were divided into four quadrants and further divided into four zones each (two teeth per zone). Photographs were taken from each area, with unstained typodonts ‐ negative control (0% plaque), and typodonts were covered with black chalk and used as a positive control (100% plaque). Three typodonts were prepared according to three experimental groups, including (1) FairyWill, (2) Cyberbrush and (3) V‐White toothbrush. Toothbrushing was performed for 2 min, and then, photographs were taken per zone of each typodont, imported into the ImageJ software, and the percentage of the remaining dental plaque was measured. Data were analysed by ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests at the level of significance p < .05. The highest percentage of dental plaque was detected in the V‐White toothbrush group, and the lowest was seen in the FairyWill group. Significant differences were only noticed between the groups of V‐White toothbrushes with the other two groups (p < .05). Within 2 min of brushing time, neither the ultrasonic and nor the automated toothbrushes could completely remove the artificial dental plaque.
Upper airway stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): A new paradigm of treatment
Authors: Aluffi Valletti Paolo , Dell’Era Valeria , Farri Filippo , Braghiroli Alberto
Published: November 2020

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a chronic condition, caused by anatomical factors associated with a progressive loss of muscular tone of the tongue and pharyngeal walls, producing upper airways collapse with oxygen desaturation during sleep. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) is an innovative and physiological technique, with validated positive effects, to treat patients with OSA who have failed or refused continuous positive airway (cPAP) standard therapy. HNS is a mixed medical and surgical procedure consisting of an electrical stimulation of the medial branches of the hypoglossal nerve—activating the genioglossus muscle (GM) that is the primary protrusor muscle of the tongue—by an implanted cuff electrode connected to a pulse generator and to a respiratory‐sensing lead. The purpose of HNS is to increase the neuromuscular activity and the tone of the tongue during sleep in order to avoid upper airway collapse and improve airflow. Compared to traditional surgical procedures, HNS is more conservative and produces a titratable and potentially reversible activation of upper airway dilatators muscles, without definitive anatomical modifications. A strict multidisciplinar approach, from patient clinical evaluation to neurostimulator programming and follow‐up, is of crucial importance to achieve a successful implantation. Limitations of HNS are the uncertainty about the long‐term adherence and effectiveness and high costs of the device. Further clinical studies are needed to improve the technological features of the current devices and to optimize patients selection criteria in order to identify best responders and to achieve higher cure rates.
Cross‐modality deep learning: Contouring of MRI data from annotated CT data only
Authors: Kieselmann Jennifer P. , Fuller Clifton D. , Gurney‐Champion Oliver J. , Oelfke Uwe
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Online adaptive radiotherapy would greatly benefit from the development of reliable auto‐segmentation algorithms for organs‐at‐risk and radiation targets. Current practice of manual segmentation is subjective and time‐consuming. While deep learning‐based algorithms offer ample opportunities to solve this problem, they typically require large datasets. However, medical imaging data are generally sparse, in particular annotated MR images for radiotherapy. In this study, we developed a method to exploit the wealth of publicly available, annotated CT images to generate synthetic MR images, which could then be used to train a convolutional neural network (CNN) to segment the parotid glands on MR images of head and neck cancer patients.

Methods

Imaging data comprised 202 annotated CT and 27 annotated MR images. The unpaired CT and MR images were fed into a 2D CycleGAN network to generate synthetic MR images from the CT images. Annotations of axial slices of the synthetic images were generated by propagating the CT contours. These were then used to train a 2D CNN. We assessed the segmentation accuracy using the real MR images as test dataset. The accuracy was quantified with the 3D Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), Hausdorff distance (HD), and mean surface distance (MSD) between manual and auto‐generated contours. We benchmarked the approach by a comparison to the interobserver variation determined for the real MR images, as well as to the accuracy when training the 2D CNN to segment the CT images.

Results

The determined accuracy (DSC: 0.77±0.07, HD: 18.04±12.59mm, MSD: 2.51±1.47mm) was close to the interobserver variation (DSC: 0.84±0.06, HD: 10.85±5.74mm, MSD: 1.50±0.77mm), as well as to the accuracy when training the 2D CNN to segment the CT images (DSC: 0.81±0.07, HD: 13.00±7.61mm, MSD: 1.87±0.84mm).

Conclusions

The introduced cross‐modality learning technique can be of great value for segmentation problems with sparse training data. We anticipate using this method with any nonannotated MRI dataset to generate annotated synthetic MR images of the same type via image style transfer from annotated CT images. Furthermore, as this technique allows for fast adaptation of annotated datasets from one imaging modality to another, it could prove useful for translating between large varieties of MRI contrasts due to differences in imaging protocols within and between institutions.
Magnetic resonance imaging with submillisecond temporal resolution
Authors: Zhong Zheng , Sun Kaibao , Karaman M. Muge , Zhou Xiaohong Joe
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To demonstrate an MRI technique—Submillisecond Periodic Event Encoded Dynamic Imaging (SPEEDI)—for capturing cyclic dynamic events with submillisecond temporal resolution.

Methods

The SPEEDI technique is based on an FID or an echo signal in which each time point in the signal is used to sample a distinct k‐space raster, followed by repeated FIDs or echoes to produce the remaining k‐space data in each k‐space raster. All acquisitions are synchronized with a cyclic event, resulting in a set of time‐resolved images of the cyclic event with a temporal resolution determined by the dwell time. In SPEEDI, spatial encoding is accomplished by phase encoding. The SPEEDI technique was demonstrated in two experiments at 3 T to (1) visualize fast‐changing electric currents that mimicked the waveform of an action potential, and (2) characterize rapidly decaying eddy currents in an MRI system, with a temporal resolution of 0.2 ms and 0.4 ms, respectively. In both experiments, compressed sensing was incorporated to reduce the scan times. Phase difference maps related to the dynamics of electric currents or eddy currents were then obtained.

Results

In the first experiment, time‐resolved phase maps resulting from the action potential–mimicking current waveform were successfully obtained and agreed well with theoretical calculations (normalized RMS error = 0.07). In the second experiment, spatially resolved eddy current phase maps revealed time constants (27.1 ± 0.2 ms, 41.1 ± 3.5 ms, and 34.8 ± 0.7 ms) that matched well with those obtained from an established method using point sources (26.4 ms, 41.2 ms and 34.8 ms). For both experiments, phase maps from fully sampled and compressed‐sensing–accelerated k‐space data exhibited a high structural similarity (> 0.8) despite a two‐fold to three‐fold acceleration.

Conclusions

We have illustrated that SPEEDI can provide submillisecond temporal resolution. This capability will likely lead to future exploration of ultrafast, cyclic biomedical processes using MRI.
Dissolved 129Xe lung MRI with four‐echo 3D radial spectroscopic imaging: Quantification of regional gas transfer in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Collier Guilhem J. , Eaden James A. , Hughes Paul J. C. , Bianchi Stephen M. , Stewart Neil J. , Weatherley Nicholas D. , Norquay Graham , Schulte Rolf F. , Wild Jim M.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Imaging of the different resonances of dissolved hyperpolarized xenon‐129 (129Xe) in the lung is performed using a four‐echo flyback 3D radial spectroscopic imaging technique and is evaluated in healthy volunteers (HV) and subjects with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Theory and Methods

10 HV and 25 subjects with IPF underwent dissolved 129Xe MRI at 1.5T. IPF subjects underwent same day pulmonary function tests to measure forced vital capacity and the diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO). A four‐point echo time technique with k‐space chemical‐shift modeling of gas, dissolved 129Xe in lung tissue/plasma (TP) and red blood cells (RBC) combined with a 3D radial trajectory was implemented within a 14‐s breath‐hold.

Results

Results show an excellent chemical shift separation of the dissolved 129Xe compartments and gas contamination removal, confirmed by a strong agreement between average imaging and global spectroscopy RBC/TP ratio measurements. Subjects with IPF exhibited reduced imaging gas transfer when compared to HV. A significant increase of the amplitude of RBC signal cardiogenic oscillation was also observed. In IPF subjects, DLCO% predicted was significantly correlated with RBC/TP and RBC/GAS ratios and the correlations were stronger in the inferior and periphery sections of the lungs.

Conclusion

Lung MRI of dissolved 129Xe was performed with a four‐echo spectroscopic imaging method. Subjects with IPF demonstrated reduced xenon imaging gas transfer and increased cardiogenic modulation of dissolved xenon signal in the RBCs when compared to HV.
Novel applications of the magnetohydrodynamics couple stress fluid flows between two plates with fractal‐fractional derivatives
Authors: Akgül Ali , Siddique Imran
Published: November 2020

In this work, we study the applications of recently introduced nonlocal differential operators with fractional order and fractal dimension referred as fractal‐fractional differential operators in fluid dynamics. We consider the magnetohydrodynamics couple stress fluid flows between two parallel plates such that the lower plate is at rest while the upper plate is acting with constant velocity. For each operator, we demonstrate a comprehensive analysis containing numerical solutions and stability investigation.
Diabetic polyneuropathy and neuropathic pain: findings from a qualitative study
Authors: Vogel Signe , Gylfadottir Sandra Sif , Finnerup Nanna Brix , Jensen Troels Staehelin
Published: November 2020

Diabetic polyneuropathy and painful diabetic polyneuropathy are common long‐term complications of diabetes. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the impact of diabetic polyneuropathy and painful diabetic polyneuropathy symptoms on the participants’ quality of life.

Individual interviews were conducted in order to examine how diabetic polyneuropathy and painful diabetic polyneuropathy symptoms are experienced and how they impact on quality of life. The participants were all recruited from a large cohort of patients from a cross‐sectional, nationwide, population‐based study of diabetic polyneuropathy within adult patients with type 2 diabetes in Denmark. Narratives were elicited from the interview transcripts and then analysed in order to identify themes and patterns within and across interviews.

Seventeen people participated in the study; seven were diagnosed with diabetic polyneuropathy and 10 were diagnosed with painful diabetic polyneuropathy. Analysis of the data showed that diabetic polyneuropathy and painful diabetic polyneuropathy symptoms can significantly exacerbate the illness burden of type 2 diabetes. The patients’ experiences of symptoms do not always correspond with the biomedical measurement of these, and patients do not necessarily experience the same symptoms in the same way as their individual context affects their perception.

Diabetic polyneuropathy and painful diabetic polyneuropathy can be severe complications of type 2 diabetes and in order to assess the impact on quality of life an individualistic and holistic approach is necessary. Copyright © 2020 John Wiley & Sons.
Joining laser‐sintered with injection‐molded parts made of PA12 using infrared welding
Authors: Wolf Michael , Drummer Dietmar
Published: November 2020

Laser‐sintering offers the possibility to produce complex and individualized components cost‐effectively. To fully exploit the advantages of laser‐sintering in assemblies with mass‐produced components, high‐performance joining processes like welding are necessary. Thus, a cost‐effective customization of products can be enabled, which allows to follow the increasing trend of individualization. Infrared welding, in particular, can also be suitable for complex laser‐sintered parts due to the reduced transverse forces during joining, compared to other welding processes. The investigations show that high strength between PA12 laser‐sintered and injection‐molded components can be achieved by infrared welding. The bond strength is mainly influenced by the welding parameters. Especially a low weld pressure leads to high achievable strengths and failure outside the weld seam. Joints between laser‐sintered parts and glass fiber reinforced injection‐molded components demonstrate the transferability of the obtained knowledge. The residual melt layer thickness of the joint decreases with increasing weld pressure, as the morphological characterization shows. Besides, the typical morphological seam structure can be seen on the side of the injection‐molded component. In the area of the laser‐sintered components, a deviating morphological structure can be observed. Distinctive flow lines can be observed, spherulitic structures can only partially be seen as well as deformed spherulites.
Biomass‐Templated Preparation of Hierarchically Multi‐Functional Ni/NiO@C Hollow‐Fibers
Authors: Su Bitao , Wang Yangchen , Luo Hao , Zhong Ming , Lei Ziqiang
Published: November 2020

Two series of hierarchically Ni/NiO@C hollow‐fibers with magnetic, adsorptive, and electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) properties are successfully prepared via a facile and green cotton fiber (CF)‐templated dipping/adsorbing‐calcining strategy. The effect of calcination temperature and CF amount on morphologies, components, and properties of the as‐prepared materials is investigated. The results demonstrate that a proper CF template can endow the as‐obtained materials with hierarchically hollow‐fiber morphology and multi‐components (Ni0, NiO, and C) at a certain calcination temperature, therefore providing excellent magnetic, adsorptive, and electrocatalytic OER and HER properties. Specifically, the unique hierarchical morphology and synergistic effect between Ni0 and NiO remarkably enhance OER and HER properties of as‐prepared samples. This strategy is low‐cost, simple, eco‐friendly, and could be extended to prepare other composites with multi‐components and functionalities.
Identification of protocatechuic acid as a novel blocker of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in lung tumor cells
Authors: Yang Min Hee , Baek Seung Ho , Chinnathambi Arunachalam , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: November 2020

Protocatechuic acid (PA) is widely distributed and commonly occurring natural compound that can exert antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, as well as anti‐cancer effects. Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is important cellular process that can control tumor invasion and metastasis. Here, we investigated whether PA can modulate the EMT process in basal and transforming growth factorβ‐induced A549 and H1299 cells. We found that PA suppressed expression of mesenchymal markers (Fibronectin, Vimentin, and N‐cadherin), MMP‐9, MMP‐2, twist, and snail but stimulated the levels of epithelial markers (E‐cadherin and Occludin). In addition, PA can affect TGFβ‐induced expression of both mesenchymal and epithelial markers. Moreover, PA abrogated migratory and invasive potential of tumor cells by reversing the EMT process. Furthermore, we found that PA suppressed EMT process by abrogating the activation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling cascade in lung cancer cells.
Taxonomical diversity and palaeobiogeographical affinity of belemnites from the Pliensbachian–ToarcianGSSP(Lusitanian Basin, Portugal)
Authors: Rita Patrícia , Weis Robert , Duarte Luís V. , De Baets Kenneth
Published: November 2020

High‐resolution analysis of the late Pliensbachian – early Toarcian belemnite assemblages from the Peniche section (Lusitanian Basin) has enabled, for the first time, recognition of eight taxa of the suborder Belemnitina, previously reported from contemporaneous north‐west Tethyan and Arctic sections. The presence ofBairstowius amaliaesp. nov. in the late Pliensbachian (emaciatumZone) represents a novelty given that hitherto the genusBairstowiuswas known only from late Sinemurian and early Pliensbachian deposits. Additionally, the replacement ofBairstowius amaliaebyCatateuthis longiforma, during the latest Pliensbachian, suggests an evolutionary relationship between the two taxa. This relationship suggests a new scenario for the subsequent development of endemic Toarcian Boreal–Arctic faunas, characterized by the occurrence ofCatateuthis. Comparison of the Peniche belemnite fauna with coeval faunas from the Mediterranean/Submediterranean and Euro‐Boreal domains indicates taxonomic uniformity during the late Pliensbachian and early Toarcian (emaciatumandpolymorphumZones), in the north‐west Tethys. Despite the lack of a marked taxonomic turnover, the Pliensbachian–Toarcian boundary corresponds to a slight decrease in diversity observed not only in the Lusitanian Basin but also in coeval north‐western European basins. Ordination and cluster analyses indicate that the largest changes in belemnite diversity and palaeogeographical distribution occurred rather during the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (base of thelevisoniZone). This event is marked by the extinction of taxa, affecting more severely the Mediterranean/Submediterranean domain and resulting in a more pronounced provincial differentiation among north‐western European and Arctic belemnite faunas.
Herstellung von 3D‐gedruckten Stahlknoten
Authors: Bergmann Jean Pierre , Lange Jörg , Hildebrand Jörg , Eiber Mathias , Erven Maren , Gaßmann Christof , Chiang Chen‐Hao , Lenz Claus , Röder Thorsten , Bashariar Wais
Published: November 2020

Es wird ein Einblick in die Vorgehensweise zur Fertigung von Knotenstrukturen im Stahlbau mittels Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) und der numerischen und experimentellen Untersuchung der Knotenstrukturen gegeben. Ausgehend von der geometrischen Komplexität sich schneidender Profilstäbe aus Stahl werden wesentliche Punkte bei der simulationsgestützten Ermittlung von Knotenstrukturen beschrieben. In Abhängigkeit von den Lastfällen können unterschiedliche Strukturen in der Topologieoptimierung gefunden werden. Für die Herstellung der Knotenstruktur durch das Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing müssen die numerisch gefundene Geometrie angepasst sowie Varianten der Bahnplanung entwickelt und bewertet werden. Dabei wird auch der Einfluss von Prozessparametern auf Verzug, Endkonturnähe und mechanische Eigenschaften der Bauteile untersucht. Für die Prognose von Spannungs‐ und Verformungszuständen des Knotens wird eine vereinfachte thermische und mechanische Analyse des Herstellungsprozesses durchgeführt. Weiter wird ein Verfahren für eine In‐situ‐Bauteilprüfung vorgestellt, welche Prozessunregelmäßigkeiten anhand von Sensordaten erkennt und deren Einflüsse auf die mechanischen Eigenschaften des Bauteils bewertet, wodurch frühzeitig im Prozess Maßnahmen zur Fehlerkorrektur getroffen oder Kosten durch Ausschuss reduziert werden können.
Nordic Academic Feminism and Whiteness as Epistemic Habit
Authors: Dahl Ulrika
Published: November 2020

This chapter is a contribution to ongoing discussions about Nordic academic feminism. It asks why and how this field continues to assume and reproduce whiteness as its naturalised point of departure and orientation and for forming a Nordic feminist “we.” It is largely conceptual, and I draw on a lived archive of 15 years of participant observation in ”Nordic” academic feminism as it has taken shape at conferences, in network and research meetings, and in classrooms and public debates. Building on the work of Sara Ahmed, Sirma Bilge, Lena Sawyer, Marta Cuesta and Diana Mulinari, I propose that whiteness can be understood as an epistemic habit of and within Nordic academic feminism. To that end, the chapter sketches a framework for understanding how whiteness is habitually and epistemically reproduced in broader logics of narration about the field, in forms of assembly and in responses to critiques of racism. Thus, whiteness is not simply a question of over-representation of white bodies, it is also about the orientations and comfort of white bodies, and about how some critiques and stories become understood as “ours” and others not.
Introduction
Authors: Sanchez Summerer Karène , Zananiri Sary
Published: November 2020

In this introductory chapter toBetween Connection and Contention, Sanchez Summerer and Zananiri lay out the genesis of the project, an overview of issues related to the study of cultural diplomacy in relation to Christian Palestinians during the British Mandate and review various theoretical approaches to field. They establish the conceptual grounding of this interdisciplinary volume, which engages with methodologies from history, cultural studies and international relations. They layout how this volume approaches and reconceptualises the agency of the different actors involved as central to both the production of culture and its operationalisation through cultural diplomacy.
Competition in the Cultural Sector: Handicrafts and the Rise of the Trade Fair in British Mandate Palestine
Authors: Ari Nisa
Published: November 2020

On the eve of Palestine’s violent ethno-national clashes of the 1930s, two simultaneous, competing trade fairs were mounted in Palestine: the Levant Fair in Tel Aviv (1932) and the First National Arab Fair in Jerusalem (1933). This chapter sketches a lineage of trade fairs in Palestine in the decades immediately prior to the debut of these duelling “national” fairs to investigate the roots of this typology within Palestine and its rise as a space for political action and debate. Undergirding the evolution of the trade fair in Palestine, the author argues, was the formation of a “cultural sector”—a conglomerate of institutions delimited by a distinct regional focus, furthering cultural development as part of both economic and political missions.
Introduction Part III European Soft Power and Christian Cultures at the Crossroads in Mandate Palestine
Authors: Sharkey Heather J.
Published: November 2020

A short section introduction to Part III “Influencing the Other: European Private and Governmental Actors”
Diaspora-Building and Cultural Diplomacy: The Greek Community of Jerusalem in Late Ottoman Times and the Mandate
Authors: Papastathis Konstantinos
Published: November 2020

This chapter explores the history of the Greek diasporic community of Jerusalem in late Ottoman times and the formative years of the British Mandate. It focuses on the creation of the Greek Colony and its central community institution, the so-called Greek Club, as well as the role of Greek cultural diplomacy both with the Greek community and with Arabs of the Greek Orthodox denomination, in its development. It addresses the establishment and development of the Jerusalem Greek diaspora; its relation to the Greek state; and its links to the Orthodox Patriarchate. Overall, the chapter suggests that Greece could influence, but not control, the decision-making process within the community. The Greek diaspora was excluded from systematic influence in Church administration, lacking power over communal education, and hence politically dependent on the Church.
The Palestine Society: Cultural Diplomacy and Scholarship in Late Tsarist Russia and the Soviet State
Authors: Gerd Lora
Published: November 2020

This chapter focuses on the role of Russian institutions in Palestine before, during and after WWI. The task of the first Russian mission was the control over the distribution of Russian donations, supporting Orthodoxy against Catholic and Protestant proselytisation and organising pilgrimages. Being founded with both political and philanthropic aims, the Russian organisations in Palestine supported the local Orthodox Arab population. Along with the traditional colonial modes of “soft power” in Palestine and Greater Syria (acquiring land and organising schools), on the eve and during WWI more flexible trends appear, providing a dialogue and cooperation with both the Greek Patriarchate and the Arab party. After the revolution of 1917 the Russian presence in Palestine was reduced to a few institutions of the Russian Church Abroad, and lost its political significance.
Introduction Part I Indigenising Cultural Diplomacy?
Authors: Irving Sarah
Published: November 2020

A short section introduction to Part I ‘Turning the Tables? Arab Appropriation and Production of Cultural Diplomacy’.
Orthodox Clubs and Associations: Cultural, Educational and Religious Networks Between Palestine and Transjordan, 1925–1950
Authors: Neveu Norig
Published: November 2020

Since the late nineteenth century, Orthodox Arab laymen had organised themselves into associations starting in the main cities of Palestine, a dynamic which quickly spread to Transjordan, leading to the creation of local Orthodox committees in most parishes. This chapter considers the history of the Greek Orthodox associations in Transjordan from 1925 to 1950 and the influence of regional networks in the structuration of religious, social and intellectual life in Amman and more generally Transjordan. By approaching cultural diplomacy “from below”, this chapter highlights the pivotal role of Orthodox laity in promoting cultural, intellectual and political production in Transjordan. Through those activities they could negotiate local sovereignty but also political and communal space, away from the influence of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem.