bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma cystatin C is a predictor of renal dysfunction, acute‐on‐chronic liver failure, and mortality in patients with acutely decompensated liver cirrhosis
Authors: Markwardt Daniel , Holdt Lesca , Steib Christian , Benesic Andreas , Bendtsen Flemming , Bernardi Mauro , Moreau Richard , Teupser Daniel , Wendon Julia , Nevens Frederik , Trebicka Jonel , Garcia Elisabet , Pavesi Marco , Arroyo Vicente , Gerbes Alexander L.
Published: May 2017

The development of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) in patients with liver cirrhosis is associated with high mortality rates. Renal failure is the most significant organ dysfunction that occurs in ACLF. So far there are no biomarkers predicting ACLF. We investigated whether cystatin C (CysC) and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) can predict development of renal dysfunction (RD), hepatorenal syndrome (HRS), ACLF, and mortality. We determined the plasma levels of CysC and NGAL in 429 patients hospitalized for acute decompensation of cirrhosis in the EASL‐CLIF Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure in Cirrhosis (CANONIC) study. The patients were followed for 90 days. Patients without RD or ACLF at inclusion but with development of either had significantly higher baseline concentrations of CysC and NGAL compared to patients without. CysC, but not NGAL, was found to be predictive of RD (odds ratio, 9.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8‐49.7), HRS (odds ratio, 4.2; 95% CI, 1.2‐14.8), and ACLF (odds ratio, 5.9; 95% CI, 1.3‐25.9). CysC at day 3 was not found to be a better predictor than baseline CysC. CysC and NGAL were both predictive of 90‐day mortality, with hazard ratios for CysC of 3.1 (95% CI, 2.1‐4.7) and for NGAL of 1.9 (95% CI, 1.5‐2.4). Conclusion: Baseline CysC is a biomarker of RD, HRS, and ACLF and an independent predictor of mortality in patients with acutely decompensated liver cirrhosis, though determining CysC at day 3 did not provide any benefit; while NGAL is also associated with short‐term mortality, it fails to predict development of RD, HRS, and ACLF. Baseline CysC may help to identify patients at risk earlier and improve clinical management. (Hepatology 2017;66:1232‐1241)
Effects of three‐dimensional virtual reality and traditional training methods on mental workload and training performance
Authors: Chao Chin‐Jung , Wu Sheng‐Yu , Yau Yi‐Jan , Feng Weng‐Yan , Tseng Feng‐Yi
Published: May 2017

Industries will implement effective training programs to improve training performance, and an ideal training performance occurs under proper mental workload (MWL). Virtual reality (VR) has recently been widely utilized in training; however, only a few studies have investigated its effects on MWL and training performance simultaneously. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of VR training and traditional training methods, such as technical manuals (TM) and multimedia films (MF), on training performance and MWL. The results of the performance measurement show that VR training is considered the best training method compared to TM and MF, particularly in the case of complex tasks. The results of physiological measurements (GSR [galvanic skin response], LF% [low frequency], and LF/HF [high frequency] ratio) show a significant difference between reading TM and using computer (MF and VR), wherein the latter has a lower MWL. However, no significant difference in subjective MWL assessment (NASA‐TLX [task load index]) and HF% measurement is found.
Successful treatment of pure red cell aplasia because of ABO major mismatched stem cell transplant
Authors: Sackett Katie , Cohn Claudia S. , Fahey‐Ahrndt Kayla , Smith Angela R. , Johnson Andrew D.
Published: May 2017

Background

Pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) is a well‐documented potential side effect of ABO major mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants. This side effect may be self‐limiting, but is sometimes treated using modalities such as steroids, antithymocyte globulin, donor lymphocyte infusions, rituximab, or plasma exchanges. Another well‐documented cause of pure red cell aplasia is a chronic parvovirus B19 infection, which may be seen in immunocompromised hosts. The treatment of this cause of PRCA includes removal of immunosuppression, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), or rituximab; however, this condition may also be self‐limiting.

Case Report

We show a case of a patient with PRCA who had previously received an ABO major mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant, but also had an identified source of parvovirus B19 in his marrow post‐transplant.

Results

He underwent several various treatments for his PRCA, including rituximab, bortezomib, and then plasma exchange. Anti‐A IgM and IgG titers were drawn throughout his treatment course, and fell from 512 (anti‐A IgM) and 1024 (anti‐A IgG) to 2 (anti‐A IgM) and 8 (anti‐A IgG). After his last plasma exchange procedure, the patient's hemoglobin and reticulocyte count rose from 6.6 g/dL and 12.5 × 109/L (respectively) at the onset of the PRCA diagnosis to 9.6 g/dL and 138.1 × 109/L after a series of 14 plasma exchanges.

Conclusion

This demonstrates a case of PRCA caused by an ABO major mismatched allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant that was potentially complicated by a parvovirus infection, which was treated with multiple therapeutic interventions including a series of therapeutic plasma exchanges, rituximab, and bortezomib. Successful resolution of the patient's PRCA was achieved.
LncRNA‐RP11‐296A18.3/miR‐138/HIF1A Pathway Regulates the Proliferation ECM Synthesis of Human Nucleus Pulposus Cells (HNPCs)
Authors: Wang Xiaobin , Lv Guohua , Li Jing , Wang Bing , Zhang Qianshi , Lu Chang
Published: May 2017

During the process of Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), nucleus pulposus apoptosis increases, extracellular matrix (ECM) alters and/or degrades, abnormal proliferation of cells forms cell clusters, and the expression of various inflammatory factors increases. Thus, regulation of human nucleus pulposus cell (HNPC) proliferation and ECM synthesis present promising strategies for IDD treatment. Accumulating evidence indicates that non‐coding RNAs are involved in various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metastasis. High expression of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) RP11‐296A18.3, as well as a low expression of miR‐138 during the IDD process has been reported; yet their functional roles in HNPC proliferation and ECM synthesis still remain unclear. MTT and BrdU assays showed that knockdown of RP11‐296A18.3 inhibited the proliferation of HNPC. The ECM marker, MMP‐13 and Collagen I expressions were also reduced. Bioinformatics target prediction, qPCR, and luciferase assays identified LncRNA‐RP11‐296A18.3 interacted with miR‐138. Moreover, RP11‐296A18.3 regulates HNPC proliferation and ECM synthesis through miR‐138. As the target gene of miR‐138, hypoxia‐inducible factor 1‐alpha (HIF1A) was closely associated with cell proliferation which was also regulated by RP11‐296A18.3 via miR‐138. Immunochemistry and qPCR results showed that miR‐138 expression was inversely correlated to RP11‐296A18.3 and HIF1A in IDD tissues, respectively; RP11‐296A18.3 was positively correlated to HIF1A. We revealed that RP11‐296A18.3 promote HIF1A expression through sponging miR‐138, thus to promote HNPC proliferation and ECM synthesis. Targeting RP11‐296A18.3 to rescue miR‐138 expression in HNPCs and IDD tissues presents a promising strategy for IDD improvement. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 4862–4871, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nanoparticles as new tools for inhibition of cancer angiogenesis
Authors: Hashemi Goradel Nasser , Ghiyami‐Hour Farshid , Jahangiri Samira , Negahdari Babak , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Masoudifar Aria , Mirzaei Hamed
Published: May 2017

Angiogenesis is known as one of the hallmarks of cancer. Multiple lines evidence indicated that vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) is a key player in the progression of angiogenesis and exerts its functions via interaction with tyrosine kinase receptors (TKRs). These receptors could trigger a variety of cascades that lead to the supply of oxygen and nutrients to tumor cells and survival of these cells. With respect to pivotal role of angiogenesis in the tumor growth and survival, finding new therapeutic approaches via targeting angiogenesis could open a new horizon in cancer therapy. Among various types of therapeutic strategies, nanotechnology has emerged as new approach for the treatment of various cancers. Nanoparticles (NPs) could be used as effective tools for targeting a variety of therapeutic agents. According to in vitro and in vivo studies, NPs are efficient in depriving tumor cells from nutrients and oxygen by inhibiting angiogenesis. However, the utilization of NPs are associated with a variety of limitations. It seems that new approaches such as NPs conjugated with hydrogels could overcome to some limitations. In the present review, we summarize various mechanisms involved in angiogenesis, common anti‐angiogenesis strategies, and application of NPs for targeting angiogenesis in various cancers.
Aerobic co‐metabolism of 1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane by Rhodococcus aetherivorans TPA grown on propane: kinetic study and bioreactor configuration analysis
Authors: Cappelletti Martina , Pinelli Davide , Fedi Stefano , Zannoni Davide , Frascari Dario
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

1,1,2,2‐tetrachloroethane (TeCA) has been generally considered as non‐biodegradable under aerobic conditions, while its complete biodegradation was reported with microbial consortia growing anaerobically. This study describes TeCA aerobic co‐metabolic degradation by the propanotroph Rhodococcus aetherivorans strain TPA isolated from a TeCA‐degrading consortium.

RESULTS

R.
aetherivorans TPA was able to grow on aliphatic hydrocarbons from propane to pentane and on gaseous n‐alkane metabolic intermediates. The Michaelis–Menten model allowed a satisfactory fit of the TPA propane utilization rates under resting cell conditions, while the TeCA degradation rates were successfully interpolated with Andrew's inhibition model. A significant propane–TeCA mutual inhibition was observed, although the results did not allow distinguishing between competitive and non‐competitive inhibition. Among different bioreactor options for the on‐site bioremediation of TeCA‐contaminated groundwater, a single suspended‐cell continuous stirred‐tank reactor (CSTR) appeared to be the optimal one.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides for the first time the kinetic and microbiological characterization of a bacterial strain capable of degrading TeCA under aerobic conditions. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Aldol condensation of benzaldehyde and heptanal: a comparative study of laboratory and industrially prepared Mg–Al mixed oxides
Authors: Vrbková Eva , Tišler Zdeněk , Vyskočilová Eliška , Kadlec David , Červený Libor
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Several layered double hydroxides (with Mg:Al ratio varying from 2:1 to 4:1) were prepared by a co‐precipitation method at constant pH value. The activity of laboratory prepared samples was compared with that of industrially prepared layered double hydroxides with the same Mg/Al ratio in aldol condensation of benzaldehyde with heptanal.

RESULTS

Characterization of all solid catalysts was performed using different techniques (ICP‐MS, thermogravimetry, X‐ray diffraction, DRIFT spectroscopy, nitrogen physisorption method, scanning electron microscopy). Acido‐basic properties of prepared materials were investigated using ammonia (carbon dioxide, respectively) temperature programmed desorption. Heptanal conversion and selectivity to two main products, i.e. 2‐pentylcinnamylaldehyde (jasmine aldehyde) and 2‐pentylnon‐2‐enal, were monitored. All catalysts resulted in heptanal conversions higher than 95%.

CONCLUSION

The highest selectivity to jasmine aldehyde (66% at 70% heptanal conversion, 46% theoretical yield) was obtained using ESM 3:1 catalyst (100°C, heptanal:benzaldehyde = 1:2 molar, solvent‐free synthesis). © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
New efficient laccase immobilization strategy using ionic liquids for biocatalysis and microbial fuel cells applications
Authors: Haj Kacem Sihem , Galai Said , Pérez de los Ríos Antonia , Hernández Fernández Francisco José , Smaali Issam
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Laccases belong to the family of blue multicopper oxidases, these enzymes are efficient in many applications, including in biofuel cells to produce electricity through chemical reactions. Several laccase immobilization methods have been elucidated, such as covalent link and entrapment.

RESULTS

The present work describes how, for the first time, laccase was successfully immobilized by entrapment into polymer inclusion ionic liquid membranes (PILMs) based on ionic liquids and polyvinylchloride. The immobilization rate was very high in all cases (99.2 ± 0.6%), so that the enzyme entrapment strategy described can be considered as successful and one of the best methods for laccases immobilization that have been reported to date. The assayed membranes were evaluated as performing carrier for laccase by means of the ABTS oxidation. Four screened ionic liquids were used for the first time for this purpose: [OMIM][NTf2], [EMIM][NTf2], [Epy][NTf2] and [Chol][NTf2]. This work demonstrated the efficiency in terms of the activity rate and stability of the enzyme versus IL concentrations. The most suitable IL as regards activity [Chol][NTf2]. However, the reuse assays showed that the most stable PILM was the one constituted by 50% [Epy][NTf2]. For physical resistance and water insolubility, the [OMIM][NTf2] based PILM was selected for microbial fuel cell (MFC) application.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report describing this original entrapment strategy for laccase immobilization into PILM. The application of this laccase‐membrane in MFC showed high stability during almost one week of use and good efficiency in producing bio‐energy and removing COD from industrial wastewater. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
99mTc‐labeled NGR‐chlorambucil conjugate, 99mTc‐HYNIC‐CLB‐c(NGR) for targeted chemotherapy and molecular imaging
Authors: Vats Kusum , Satpati Drishty , Sharma Rohit , Kumar Chandan , Sarma Haladhar D. , Dash Ashutosh
Published: May 2017

Targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic drug at the tumor site enhances the efficacy with minimum systemic exposure. Towards this, drugs conjugated with peptides having affinity towards a particular molecular target are recognized as affective agents for targeted chemotherapy. Thus, in the present study, tumor‐homing asparagine‐glycine‐arginine (NGR) peptide ligand was conjugated to DNA alkylating nitrogen mustard, chlorambucil (CLB). The peptide‐drug conjugate (PDC), CLB‐c(NGR), was radiolabeled with 99mTc‐HYNIC core to trace its pharmacokinetics and biodistribution pattern. In vitro cell‐binding studies of 99mTc‐HYNIC‐CLB‐c(NGR) were conducted in murine melanoma B16F10 cells. The cytotoxicity studies conducted by incubation of the peptide/drug/PDC with B16F10 cells demonstrated enhanced cytotoxic effect of PDC in comparison to either the peptide or the drug alone. In vivo biodistribution studies in C57BL6 mice bearing melanoma tumor showed maximum tumor uptake at 30 minutes pi (2.45 ± 0.28% ID/g), which reduced to 0.77 ± 0.1% ID /g at 3 hours pi. The radiotracer being hydrophilic cleared rapidly from the heart, lungs, liver, and muscle. The tumor‐to‐blood and tumor‐to‐muscle ratios improved with time. This study opens avenues for conjugation of other targeting peptides with the drug CLB for enhanced toxicity at the diseased site.
Identification of V‐type nerve agents in vapor samples using a field‐portable capillary gas chromatography/membrane‐interfaced electron ionization quadrupole mass spectrometry instrument with Tri‐Bed concentrator and fluoridating conversion tube
Authors: Ohrui Y. , Nagoya T. , Kurimata N. , Sodeyama M. , Seto Y.
Published: May 2017

A field‐portable gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) system (Hapsite ER) was evaluated for the detection of nonvolatile V‐type nerve agents (VX and Russian VX (RVX)) in the vapor phase. The Hapsite ER system consists of a Tri‐Bed concentrator gas sampler, a nonpolar low thermal‐mass capillary GC column and a hydrophobic membrane‐interfaced electron ionization quadrupole mass spectrometer evacuated by a non‐evaporative getter pump. The GC–MS system was attached to a VX‐G fluoridating conversion tube containing silver nitrate and potassium fluoride. Sample vapors of VX and RVX were converted into O‐ethyl methylphosphonofluoridate (EtGB) and O‐isobutyl methylphosphonofluoridate (iBuGB), respectively. These fluoridated derivatives were detected within 10 min. No compounds were detected when the VX and RVX samples were analyzed without the conversion tube. A vapor sample of tabun (GA) was analyzed, in which GA and O‐ethyl N,N‐dimethylphosphoramidofluoridate were detected. The molar recovery percentages of EtGB and iBuGB from VX and RVX vapors varied from 0.3 to 17%, which was attributed to variations in the vaporization efficiency of the glass vapor container. The conversion efficiencies of the VX‐G conversion tube for VX and RVX to their phosphonate derivatives were estimated to be 40%. VX and RVX vapors were detected at concentrations as low as 0.3 mg m−3. Gasoline vapor was found to interfere with the analyses of VX and RVX. In the presence of 160 mg m−3 gasoline, the detection limits of VX and RVX vapor were increased to 20 mg m−3. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biological effects and osteoarthritic disease‐modifying activity of small molecule CM‐01
Authors: Sun Yubo , Roberts Andrea , Mauerhan David R. , Cox Michael , Hanley Edward N.
Published: May 2017

Phosphocitrate inhibits cartilage degeneration, however, the prospect of phosphocitrate as an oral disease modifying drug might be limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biological effects and disease‐modifying activity of a phosphocitrate “analog,” CM‐01 (Carolinas Molecule‐01), and test the hypothesis that CM‐01 is a disease modifying drug for osteoarthritis therapy. The effects of CM‐01 on calcium crystal‐induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 and interleukin‐1 beta, cell‐mediated calcification and production of proteoglycan by chondrocytes were examined in cell cultures. Disease‐modifying activity was examined using Hartley guinea pig model of posttraumatic osteoarthritis. Cartilage degeneration in untreated and CM‐01 treated guinea pigs was examined with Indian ink and Safranin‐O‐fast green. Levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐13, ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 5, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5, and cyclooxygenase 2 were examined with immunostaining. CM‐01 inhibited crystal‐induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 and interleukin‐1β, reduced cell‐mediated calcification, and stimulated the production of proteoglycan by chondrocytes. In Hartley guinea pigs, CM‐01 not only reduced damages in articular surface but also reduced resorption of calcified zone cartilage. The reduction in cartilage degeneration was accompanied by decreased levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐13, ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif 5, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5 and cyclooxygenase 2. These findings confirmed that CM‐01 is a promising candidate to be tested as an oral drug for human OA therapy. CM‐01 exerted its disease‐modifying activity on osteoarthritis, in part, by inhibiting the production of matrix‐degrading enzymes and a molecular program resembling the endochondral pathway of ossification. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:309–317, 2018.
Phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of arabinoxylan hydrolysates from defatted rice bran
Authors: Yuwang Prachit , Sulaeva Irina , Hell Johannes , Henniges Ute , Böhmdorfer Stefan , Rosenau Thomas , Chitsomboon Benjamart , Tongta Sunanta
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

The water unextractable arabinoxylans (WUAX) contain beneficial phenolic compounds that can be used for food rather than for animal feed. The antioxidant activities of defatted rice bran obtained by xylanase‐aided extraction is reported herein. The chemical and molecular characteristics of extracted fractions were investigated.

RESULTS

The WUAX hydrolysate precipitated by 0–60% ethanol (F60), 60–90% ethanol (F6090), and more than 90% ethanol (F90) had decreased molar masses with increasing ethanol concentration. The fractions of interest, F60 and F6090, contained 75% arabinoxylans with ferulic acid as the major bound phenolic acid, followed by p‐coumaric acid. According to chemical‐based antioxidant assays F60 and F6090 exhibited higher diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and ferric iron reducing ability than F90 which contained minor contents of small sugars and free phenolic acids. In cell‐based antioxidant assays, using the fluorescent 2′,7′‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate probe, all three fractions were potent intracellular scavengers.

CONCLUSION

The high molar mass of WUAX hydrolysates with high amount of bound phenolics contributes to the chemical‐based antioxidant activity. All fractions of WUAX hydrolysates showed high potent intracellular scavenging activity regardless of molar mass, content and the component of bound phenolics. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The vascularized groin lymph node flap (VGLN): Anatomical study and flap planning using multi‐detector CT scanner. The golden triangle for flap harvesting
Authors: Zeltzer Assaf A. , Anzarut Alexander , Braeckmans Delphine , Seidenstuecker Katrin , Hendrickx Benoit , Van Hedent Eddy , Hamdi Moustapha
Published: May 2017

Introduction: A growing number of surgeons perform lymph node transfers for the treatment of lymphedema. When harvesting a vascularized lymph node groin flap (VGLNF) one of the major concerns is the potential risk of iatrogenic lymphedema of the donor‐site. This article helps understanding of the lymph node distribution of the groin in order to minimize this risk.

Materials and Methods: Fifty consecutive patients undergoing abdominal mapping by multi‐detector CT scanner were included and 100 groins analyzed. The groin was divided in three zones (of which zone II is the safe zone) and lymph nodes were counted and mapped with their distances to anatomic landmarks. Further node units were plotted and counted.

Results: The average age was 48 years. A mean number of nodes of 6.5/groin was found. In zone II, which is our zone of interest a mean of 3.1 nodes were counted with a mean size of 7.8 mm. In three patients no nodes were found in zone II. In five patients nodes were seen in zone II but were not sufficient in size or number to be considered a lymph node unit. On average the lymph node unit in zone II was found to be 48.3 mm from the pubic tubercle when projected on a line from the pubic tubercle to the anterior superior iliac spine, 16.0 mm caudal to this line, and 20.4 mm above the groin crease. On average the lymph node unit was a mean of 41.7 mm lateral to the SCIV‐SIEV confluence.

Conclusion: This study provides increased understanding of the lymphatic anatomy in zone II of the groin flap and suggests a refined technique for designing the VGLNF. As with any flap there is a degree of individual patient variability. However, having information on the most common anatomy and flap design is of great value.
Corrosion resistance of high‐alloyed stainless steel membrane supports under flue gas conditions of a lignite‐fueled power plant
Authors: Bram M. , Seifert M. , Kot A. , Wilkner K. , Wulbieter N. , Theisen W.
Published: May 2017

Metal‐supported silica membranes are attractive candidates for CO2 capture from the exhaust of coal‐fueled power plants. Compared to their full ceramic counterparts, the introduction of the metal support facilitates sealing of the membrane by established technologies, such as welding, and enhances the robustness of the membrane in the harsh environment of the power plant. As well‐known from other steel components in flue gas desulfurization units, long‐term corrosion resistance of the metal support is mandatory for the success of this new membrane concept. In the present work, a research concept is introduced enabling a systematic benchmark of stainless steels regarding their suitability to be used for the metal support of the CO2 selective silica membranes. The study combines field tests of porous samples in direct contact with the exhaust gas of a lignite‐fueled power plant and standardized corrosion tests of dense and porous samples in the laboratory according to DIN 50918 using exhaust gas condensate as the corrosive medium. Preliminary results are achieved on austenitic steel (AISI 316L) as well as on two ferritic steels (Crofer22APU, Plansee ITM). Ferritic steels are chosen due to their availability as substrates with well‐defined porosity and with adapted thermal expansion coefficient enabling successful coating of the CO2 selective silica membrane.
Effect of sol–gel prepared nanoalumina reinforcement content on the corrosion resistances of Al 6061‐Al2O3 nanocomposite in 3.5% NaCl solution
Authors: Shrivastava V. , Singh A. , Singh I. B.
Published: May 2017

Sol–gel prepared nanoparticles of pure alpha alumina with 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 wt% content were used in the synthesis of Al‐6061 alloy based metal matrix composite via powder metallurgy route. After synthesis, corrosion investigation of the synthesized composite samples were carried out in 3.5% NaCl solution using electrochemical polarization and impedance analysis. A total of 0.5–1 wt% nanoalumina reinforced composite has shown an excellent corrosion resistance of more than an order of magnitude higher as compared to the sintered base alloy. However, a substantial decrease in corrosion resistances of synthesized composite were found after reinforcement of >1.0 wt% nanoalumina and corrosion becomes worse than the sintered base alloy of 2.5 wt% nanoalumina incorporated composite sample. Microstructural examination and relative density measurements of the synthesized composites indicated that increase of porosities and accumulation of nanoparticles in the grain boundary regions conjointly increase the corrosion reaction after exceeding 1.0 wt% nanoalumina reinforcement content.
Development of light–weight design technologies for the secure mounting of battery into the body of electric vehicles
Authors: Kim K. J.
Published: May 2017

A common feature of electric vehicles is that they do not emit exhaust gases, such as CO2 or NOx, have low noise and vibration harshness, and are silent as a result of using secondary electric energy, i. e. alternatives to petroleum. The case of an electric vehicle, where a motor system can be substituted for a combustion engine comprises a very fascinating power source which is environmentally sustainable. However, due to the low power performance of the motor and battery source, it is necessary to reduce the weight of the electric vehicle to increase efficiency. In the present study, the stiffness and strength analysis was conducted to evaluate the safety of the battery mounted parts. For these, the CAE (computer aided engineering) simulation of the full vehicle (Metro by Geo Co.=base model) model was performed. The strength criteria evaluation satisfied the tensile strength of the surrounding material in the battery mounting after applying the load of X=‐4 g. In order to improve the stiffness and strength of the base model, a change in design was proposed. A new structure for the floor was suggested to improve the battery mount. This model is designed to improve the act of exchanging batteries, by integrating the body in white fixture in the model. To confirm the possibility of body in white weight reduction, the structure section of overlapped portions and its thickness thinning was studied. From these results, it was confirmed that the body in white design should be possible with high stiffness and strength.
Characterization of arterial wall mechanical properties by a non–invasive method
Authors: Ramaël B. , Salsac A.‐V. , Knopf‐Lenoir C.
Published: May 2017

Simulations of the behavior of blood vessels were performed, using ANSYS Inc. software, modeling fluid‐structure interactions with both strong and weak coupling. The objective was to determine the parietal deformations induced by thermodynamic conditions and pressure drops in the relevant vessels. The simulations involved hyperelastic and large deflection models to simulate the behavior of the wall. They allow the calculation of the numerical displacements and comparison with experimental displacements measured by magnetic resonance imaging, the aim is that the difference between numerical and experimental be as low as possible to deduce the adequate mechanical parameters for the artery. To identify the mechanical properties of the vessels, the optimization technique proposed in ANSYS based on genetic algorithms or gradient algorithms was used. One of the crucial points of identification involves the determination of the non‐stress state. If it is a known parameter for the elastic tube, it has to be determining for blood vessels. The challenge of this work is to determine from a “minimum” quantity of pressure and deformation information, the hyper‐elastic properties of blood vessels. The method based on a patient‐specific geometry deformation concluded that the tangent modulus in diastole is approximately 200 kPa while that in systole is in a range of 300 kPa to 1 MPa.
Metallurgical investigations of laser remelted additively manufactured AlSi10Mg parts
Authors: Schanz J. , Hofele M. , Ruck S. , Schubert T. , Hitzler L. , Schneider G. , Merkel M. , Riegel H.
Published: May 2017

Selective laser melting is gaining importance to manufacture reliable and highly complex parts. However, the surfaces of the selective laser melted parts exhibit for many applications an insufficient high roughness, thus require subsequent post processing steps. A relatively new way to reduce the surface roughness is the laser polishing technique. In the present paper, additively manufactured AlSi10Mg samples were polished with different laser intensities and laser modes. The investigations contain the potential of roughness reduction and enhancement of the surface appearances, which can be achieved by laser polishing of the as‐built surfaces. An initial arithmetic mean roughness of 8.43 μm was remarkably reduced up to 98 %. The compositions of the polished surfaces were detected and the surface appearances were examined. Reasons and mechanisms were explained and depicted for the occurred shade formations on the polished surfaces. High laser intensity led to segregation of silicon and magnesium on the surface. A higher laser intensity enabled an increased melt depth within the conture layer of the selective laser melting structure. Through increasing melt depth, a porosity of max. 1.7 % was detected in the remolten area. Hardness investigations of the initial and laser remolten cross section revealed no significant reduction in hardness.
Generalized sampling expansions associated with quaternion Fourier transform
Authors: Cheng Dong , Kou Kit Ian
Published: May 2017

Quaternion‐valued signals along with quaternion Fourier transforms (QFT) provide an effective framework for vector‐valued signal and image processing. However, the sampling theory of quaternion‐valued signals has not been well developed. In this paper, we present the generalized sampling expansions associated with QFT by using the generalized translation and convolution. We show that a σ‐bandlimited quaternion‐valued signal in QFT sense can be reconstructed from the samples of output signals of M linear systems based on QFT. Quaternion linear canonical transform is a generalization of QFT with six parameters. Using the relationship between QFT, we derive the sampling formula for σ‐bandlimited quaternion‐valued signal in quaternion linear canonical transform sense. Examples are given to illustrate our results. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability of general virus dynamics models with both cellular and viral infections and delays
Authors: Elaiw A. M. , Raezah A. A.
Published: May 2017

We consider general virus dynamics model with virus‐to‐target and infected‐to‐target infections. The model is incorporated by intracellular discrete or distributed time delays. We assume that the virus‐target and infected‐target incidences, the production, and clearance rates of all compartments are modeled by general nonlinear functions that satisfy a set of reasonable conditions. The non‐negativity and boundedness of the solutions are studied. The existence and stability of the equilibria are determined by a threshold parameter. We use suitable Lyapunov functionals and apply LaSalle's invariance principle to prove the global asymptotic stability of the all equilibria of the model. We confirm the theoretical results by numerical simulations. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Within‐person reproducibility and sensitivity to dietary change of C15:0 and C17:0 levels in dried blood spots: Data from the European Food4Me Study
Authors: Albani Viviana , Celis‐Morales Carlos , O'Donovan Clare B. , Walsh Marianne C. , Woolhead Clara , Forster Hannah , Fallaize Rosalind , Macready Anna L. , Marsaux Cyril F. M. , Navas‐Carretero Santiago , San‐Cristobal Rodrigo , Kolossa Silvia , Mavrogianni Christina , Lambrinou Christina P. , Moschonis George , Godlewska Magdalena , Surwillo Agnieszka , Traczyk Iwona , Gundersen Thomas E. , Drevon Christian A. , Daniel Hannelore , Manios Yannis , Martinez J. Alfredo , Saris Wim H. M. , Lovegrove Julie A. , Gibney Michael J. , Gibney Eileen R. , Mathers John C. , Adamson Ashley J. , Brennan Lorraine
Published: May 2017

Scope

Previous work highlighted the potential of odd‐chain length saturated fatty acids as potential markers of dairy intake. The aim of this study was to assess the reproducibility of these biomarkers and their sensitivity to changes in dairy intake.

Methods and results

Fatty acid profiles and dietary intakes from food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) were measured three times over six months in the Food4Me Study. Reproducibility was explored through intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs) and within‐subject coefficients of variation (WCV). Sensitivity to changes in diet was examined using regression analysis. C15:0 blood levels showed high correlation over time (ICC: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.57, 0.68), however, the ICC for C17:0 was much lower (ICC: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.46). The WCV for C15:0 was 16.6% and that for C17:0 was 14.6%. There were significant associations between changes in intakes of total dairy, high‐fat dairy, cheese and butter and C15:0; and change in intakes of high‐fat dairy and cream and C17:0.

Conclusion

Results provide evidence of reproducibility of C15:0 levels over time and sensitivity to change in intake of high‐fat dairy products with results comparable to the well‐established biomarker of fish intake (EPA+DHA).
Tutorial for the structure elucidation of small molecules by means of the LSD software
Authors: Nuzillard Jean‐Marc , Plainchont Bertrand
Published: May 2017

Automatic structure elucidation of small molecules by means of the “logic for structure elucidation” (LSD) software is introduced in the context of the automatic exploitation of chemical shift correlation data and with minimal input from chemical shift values. The first step in solving a structural problem by means of LSD is the extraction of pertinent data from the 1D and 2D spectra. This operation requires the labeling of the resonances and of their correlations; its reliability highly depends on the quality of the spectra. The combination of COSY, HSQC, and HMBC spectra results in proximity relationships between nonhydrogen atoms that are associated in order to build the possible solutions of a problem. A simple molecule, camphor, serves as an example for the writing of an LSD input file and to show how solution structures are obtained. An input file for LSD must contain a nonambiguous description of each atom, or atom status, which includes the chemical element symbol, the hybridization state, the number of bound hydrogen atoms and the formal electric charge. In case of atom status ambiguity, the pyLSD program performs clarification by systematically generating the status of the atoms. PyLSD also proposes the use of the nmrshiftdb algorithm in order to rank the solutions of a problem according to the quality of the fit between the experimental carbon‐13 chemical shifts, and the ones predicted from the proposed structures. To conclude, some hints toward future uses and developments of computer‐assisted structure elucidation by LSD are proposed.
Imaging of nuclear Overhauser enhancement at 7 and 3 T
Authors: Shen Yuanyu , Xiao Gang , Shen Zhiwei , Zhang Xiaolei , Tang Xiangyong , Hu Wei , Zhang Zhiyan , Guan Jitian , Wu Renhua
Published: May 2017

Nuclear Overhauser enhancement (NOE) is a type of magnetization transfer using cross‐relaxation. It originates from mobile macromolecules, which may have relevance to the evaluation of tumor features. We studied the value of NOE imaging at 7 and 3 T and suggest a utility for diagnosing human brain tumors. Two types of protein solution at different concentrations and pH values, and six normal Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, were used to detect NOE signal with a 7 T scanner. Then, six healthy volunteers and 11 patients with brain tumors (six gliomas and five meningiomas) were included at 3 T. Z‐spectra were measured and NOE weighted (NOE*) images were acquired with a three‐offset measurement. Wide spectral separation was shown at both 7 T and 3 T delineating the NOE peak in the Z‐spectrum. The concentration dependence and pH independence of NOE were confirmed in phantom experiments, and NOE values were greater in white matter than in gray matter in vivo. At 3 T, data indicated that NOE* maps were slightly hypointense in gliomas and were not obviously different from meningiomas. Thus, NOE imaging may help distinguish benign from malignant tumors, and as such may contribute to diagnosing brain tumors.
DCE‐MRI prediction of survival time for patients with glioblastoma multiforme: using an adaptive neuro‐fuzzy‐based model and nested model selection technique
Authors: Dehkordi Azimeh N.V. , Kamali‐Asl Alireza , Wen Ning , Mikkelsen Tom , Chetty Indrin J. , Bagher‐Ebadian Hassan
Published: May 2017

This pilot study investigates the construction of an Adaptive Neuro‐Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) for the prediction of the survival time of patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). ANFIS is trained by the pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters estimated by the model selection (MS) technique in dynamic contrast enhanced‐magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) data analysis, and patient age. DCE‐MRI investigations of 33 treatment‐naïve patients with GBM were studied. Using the modified Tofts model and MS technique, the following physiologically nested models were constructed: Model 1, no vascular leakage (normal tissue); Model 2, leakage without efflux; Model 3, leakage with bidirectional exchange (influx and efflux). For each patient, the PK parameters of the three models were estimated as follows: blood plasma volume (vp) for Model 1;vpand volume transfer constant (Ktrans) for Model 2;vp,Ktransand rate constant (kep) for Model 3. Using Cox regression analysis, the best combination of the estimated PK parameters, together with patient age, was identified for the design and training of ANFIS. AK‐fold cross‐validation (K = 33) technique was employed for training, testing and optimization of ANFIS. Given the survival time distribution, three classes of survival were determined and a confusion matrix for the correct classification fraction (CCF) of the trained ANFIS was estimated as an accuracy index of ANFIS's performance. Patient age,kepandve(Ktrans/kep) of Model 3, andKtransof Model 2, were found to be the most effective parameters for training ANFIS. The CCF of the trained ANFIS was 84.8%. High diagonal elements of the confusion matrix (81.8%, 90.1% and 81.8% for Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3, respectively), with low off‐diagonal elements, strongly confirmed the robustness and high performance of the trained ANFIS for predicting the three survival classes. This study confirms that DCE‐MRI PK analysis, combined with the MS technique and ANFIS, allows the construction of a DCE‐MRI‐based fuzzy integrated predictor for the prediction of the survival of patients with GBM.
Simultaneous use of linear and nonlinear gradients for B1+ inhomogeneity correction
Authors: Ertan Koray , Atalar Ergin
Published: May 2017

The simultaneous use of linear spatial encoding magnetic fields (L‐SEMs) and nonlinear spatial encoding magnetic fields (N‐SEMs) in B1+ inhomogeneity problems is formulated and demonstrated with both simulations and experiments. Independent excitation k‐space variables for N‐SEMs are formulated for the simultaneous use of L‐SEMs and N‐SEMs by assuming a small tip angle. The formulation shows that, when N‐SEMs are considered as an independent excitation k‐space variable, numerous different k‐space trajectories and frequency weightings differing in dimension, length, and energy can be designed for a given target transverse magnetization distribution. The advantage of simultaneous use of L‐SEMs and N‐SEMs is demonstrated by B1+ inhomogeneity correction with spoke excitation. To fully utilize the independent k‐space formulations, global optimizations are performed for 1D, 2D RF power limited, and 2D RF power unlimited simulations and experiments. Three different cases are compared: L‐SEMs alone, N‐SEMs alone, and both used simultaneously. In all cases, the simultaneous use of L‐SEMs and N‐SEMs leads to a decreased standard deviation in the ROI compared with using only L‐SEMs or N‐SEMs. The simultaneous use of L‐SEMs and N‐SEMs results in better B1+ inhomogeneity correction than using only L‐SEMs or N‐SEMs due to the increased number of degrees of freedom.
Intra‐ and interindividual variability of fatty acid unsaturation in six different human adipose tissue compartments assessed by 1H‐MRS in vivo at 3 T
Authors: Machann Jürgen , Stefan Norbert , Wagner Robert , Bongers Malte , Schleicher Erwin , Fritsche Andreas , Häring Hans‐Ulrich , Nikolaou Konstantin , Schick Fritz
Published: May 2017

It is generally accepted that the amount and distribution of adipose tissue (AT) in the human body play an important role in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases. In addition, metabolic effects of released saturated fatty acids (FAs) in blood are known to be more critical than those of unsaturated FAs. However, little is known about the variability in unsaturation of FAs in various AT compartments. The aim of this prospective study was the assessment of mono‐ and polyunsaturated FAs in various AT compartments by localized 1H‐MRS in order to obtain insight into the intra‐ and interindividual variability. Associations of FA unsaturation with intrahepatic lipids (IHLs), insulin sensitivity and related AT volumes were analyzed.

Fifty healthy Caucasians (36 male, 14 female) participated in this study. Spectroscopic examinations were performed in subcutaneous adipose tissue in the neck (SCATneck), abdominal deep subcutaneous adipose tissue (DSCAT), abdominal superficial subcutaneous adipose tissue (SSCAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), tibial bone marrow (BM) and subcutaneous adipose tissue of the lower leg (SCATcalf) at 3 T. Unsaturated index (UI) was calculated by the ratio of olefinic and methyl resonances, polyunsaturated index (PUI) by the ratio of diallylic and methyl resonances. Volumes of AT compartments (by T1‐weighted MRI) and IHL (single‐voxel STEAM) were assessed at 1.5 T, insulin sensitivity by an oral glucose tolerance test.

UI was highest for SCATcalf (0.622) and lowest for BM (0.527). Highest PUI was observed for SSCAT (0.108), lowest for BM (0.093). Significant intraindividual differences between UIs—but not PUIs—are present for most compartments. There is a non‐significant trend for higher UI in males but otherwise no correlation to anthropometric data (age, BMI). A significant negative correlation between UI and AT volume was observed for VAT but for none of the other compartments. Neither UIs nor PUIs show a relation with IHL; insulin sensitivity is significantly correlated to UI in BM (p < 0.01).

Unsaturation indices in several distinct AT compartments are location dependent. Our cohort showed only moderate gender‐related differences, with a trend towards less unsaturated FAs (mainly PUI) in females. In BM, insulin resistant subjects are characterized by a higher UI compared with the insulin sensitive ones. Further studies in larger cohorts are necessary to gain further insight into unsaturation of AT.
Evidence of Cat (Felis catus) Fur Exploitation in Medieval Iberia
Authors: Lloveras L. , Thomas R. , Garcia A. , Florensa F. , Segura S. , Medina E. , Orri E. , Nadal J.
Published: May 2017

Whilst the bones of domestic cats (Felis catus) are recovered from archaeological sites in Iberia routinely, they are rarely subjected to detailed analysis. Consequently, there is limited understanding of the nature of cat–human relations, especially in contrast to northern European regions. In this paper, we present a unique assemblage of 899 cat bones recovered from the medieval site of El Bordellet (Vilafranca del Penedès, Spain) and dated between the end of the 10th century ad and the beginning of the 11th century ad. Zooarchaeological and taphonomic analysis provides the first clear evidence of skinning related to cat fur exploitation in Christian medieval Iberia. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Obesity as a risk factor for developing functional limitation among older adults: A conditional inference tree analysis
Authors: Cheng Feon W. , Gao Xiang , Bao Le , Mitchell Diane C. , Wood Craig , Sliwinski Martin J. , Smiciklas‐Wright Helen , Still Christopher D. , Rolston David D. K. , Jensen Gordon L.
Published: May 2017

Objective

To examine the risk factors of developing functional decline and make probabilistic predictions by using a tree‐based method that allows higher order polynomials and interactions of the risk factors.

Methods

The conditional inference tree analysis, a data mining approach, was used to construct a risk stratification algorithm for developing functional limitation based on BMI and other potential risk factors for disability in 1,951 older adults without functional limitations at baseline (baseline age 73.1 ± 4.2 y). We also analyzed the data with multivariate stepwise logistic regression and compared the two approaches (e.g., cross‐validation). Over a mean of 9.2 ± 1.7 years of follow‐up, 221 individuals developed functional limitation.

Results

Higher BMI, age, and comorbidity were consistently identified as significant risk factors for functional decline using both methods. Based on these factors, individuals were stratified into four risk groups via the conditional inference tree analysis. Compared to the low‐risk group, all other groups had a significantly higher risk of developing functional limitation. The odds ratio comparing two extreme categories was 9.09 (95% confidence interval: 4.68, 17.6).

Conclusions

Higher BMI, age, and comorbid disease were consistently identified as significant risk factors for functional decline among older individuals across all approaches and analyses.