bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Membrane Light‐Emitting Diode Flow Sensor
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Shi Zheng , Yuan Jialei , Gao Xumin , Cai Wei , Jiang Yuan , Liu Yuhuai , Wang Yongjin
Published: December 2017

Multifunctional flow sensors are important components of smart systems when considering the Internet of things. In this work, a membrane light‐emitting diode sensor (LED‐S) is examined by utilizing the signals produced from the piezoelectric and heat dissipation effects for real‐time flow rate detection. In association with silicon removal and backside III‐nitride thinning, an InGaN/GaN LED is fabricated on a 1.58 mm diameter suspended membrane. In response to a flow rate change, the suspended membrane is deformed and the accumulated heat within the device is dissipated, which leads to an induced current. Consequently, the membrane LED can create light emission and flow detection simultaneously. The light emission is modulated for the implementation of visible light communication, which can connect the LED‐S to the internet. These results demonstrate that the LED‐S has great potential to be integrated into a multicomponent system for flow sensing, pressure sensing, and environment monitoring.
60 Seconds to Survival: A Multisite Study of a Screen‐based Simulation to Improve Prehospital Providers Disaster Triage Skills
Authors: Cicero Mark X. , Whitfill Travis , Walsh Barbara , Diaz Maria Carmen , Arteaga Grace , Scherzer Daniel J. , Goldberg Scott , Madhok Manu , Bowen Angela , Paesano Geno , Redlener Michael , Munjal Kevin , Kessler David , Auerbach Marc
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) perform triage at disaster sites. There is a need for disaster triage training. Live simulation training is costly and difficult to deliver. Screen‐based simulations may overcome these training barriers. We hypothesized that a screen‐based simulation, 60 Seconds to Survival (60S), would be associated with in‐game improvements in triage accuracy.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of a screen‐based simulation intervention, 60S. Participants included emergency medical services (EMS) personnel from 21 EMS agencies across 12 states. Participants performed assessments (e.g., check for pulse) and actions (e.g., reposition the airway) for 12 patients in each scenario and assigned color‐coded triage levels (red, yellow, green, or black) to each patient. Participants received on‐screen feedback about triage performance immediately after each scenario. A scoring system was designed to encourage accurate and timely triage decisions. Participants who played 60S included practicing EMTs, paramedics, and nurses as well as students studying to assume these roles. Participants played the game at least three times over 13 weeks.

Results

In total, 2,234 participants began game play and 739 completed the study and were included in the analysis. Overall, the median number of plays of the game was just above the threshold inclusion criteria (three or more plays) with a median of four plays during the study period (interquartile range [IQR] = 3–7). There was a significant difference in triage accuracy from the first play of the game to the last play of the game. Median baseline triage accuracy in the game was 89.7% (IQR = 82.1%–94.9%), which then increased to a median of 100% at the last game play (IQR = 87.5%–100.0%; p < 0.001). There was some variability in median triage accuracy on fourth through 11th game plays, ranging from 95% to 100%, and on the 12th to 16th plays, the median accuracy was sustained at 100%. There was a significant decrease in the rate of undertriage: from 10.3% (IQR = 5.1%–18.0%) to 0 (IQR = 0%–12.5%; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

60 Seconds to Survival is associated with improved in‐game triage accuracy. Further study of the correlation between in‐game triage accuracy and improvements in live simulation or real‐world triage decisions is warranted.
A phase I/II trial of vorinostat (SAHA) in combination with rituximab‐CHOP in patients with newly diagnosed advanced stage diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL): SWOG S0806
Authors: Persky Daniel O. , Li Hongli , Rimsza Lisa M. , Barr Paul M. , Popplewell Leslie L. , Bane Charles L. , Von Gehr Ann , LeBlanc Michael , Fisher Richard I. , Smith Sonali M. , Friedberg Jonathan W.
Published: December 2017

Loss of major histocompatibility Class II expression (MHCII) in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) correlates with decreased survival. MHCII transcription is in part regulated by histone acetylation. We tested the hypothesis that combination of histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACI) with standard chemotherapy would improve outcomes in DLBCL in part through increased MHCII expression. S0806 was a single arm phase I/II trial of vorinostat given at 400 mg po daily on days 1‐9 (subsequently amended to days 1‐5 due to toxicity), combined with R‐CHOP given on day 3 of a 21‐day cycle for 8 cycles, with primary phase II endpoint of 2‐year progression free survival (PFS). With 72 evaluable patients, at median follow up of 3 years, 2‐year PFS estimate was 73%, and OS estimate was 86%. Considering that the regimen fell short of predefined efficacy improvement and was associated with high rates of febrile neutropenia (38%) and sepsis (19%), it cannot be recommended for general use. Consistent with our hypothesis, patients with low MCHII expression on S0806 had numerically superior outcomes compared to those from trial S0433 which did not use an HDACI, but the difference was not statistically significant. Current studies are focused on finding biomarkers of response to HDACI.
Poly(arylene ether ketone)s with low dielectric constants derived from polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane and difluorinated aromatic ketones
Authors: Hao Jinmeng , Wei Yanfeng , Li Xuesong , Mu Jianxin
Published: December 2017

Preparation of low‐dielectric‐constant poly(arylene ether ketone)s (PAEKs) containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) in the main chains with high molecular weights (up to ηinh = 0.65 dL/g) is reported. The polymers (DDSQ‐PAEKs) were synthesized from a diphenol POSS [2OH‐DDSQ, or 3,13‐di(2‐methoxy‐4‐propylphenol)octaphenyl DDSQ] and three difluorinated aromatic ketones via nucleophilic aromatic substitution polycondensation. All of the DDSQ‐PAEKs exhibited lower dielectric constants in the range of 1.95–2.21 at 1 MHz at room temperature compared with the corresponding traditional PAEKs. In particular, DDSQ‐PEEK demonstrated good combined characteristics, including low dielectric constant of 1.95 at 1 MHz, high static water contact angle (CA) of 100°, low water sorption of 0.09%, and organosolubility. The relationship between chemical structure and the properties of the DDSQ‐PAEKs were investigated in detail. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2018,135, 46084.
Chikungunya Arthritis Mechanisms in the Americas
Authors: Chang Aileen Y. , Martins Karen A. O. , Encinales Liliana , Reid St. Patrick , Acuña Marlon , Encinales Carlos , Matranga Christian B. , Pacheco Nelly , Cure Carlos , Shukla Bhavarth , Ruiz Arteta Teofilo , Amdur Richard , Cazares Lisa H. , Gregory Melissa , Ward Michael D. , Porras Alexandra , Rico Mendoza Alejandro , Dong Lian , Kenny Tara , Brueggemann Ernie , Downey Lydia G. , Kamalapathy Priyanka , Lichtenberger Paola , Falls Orlando , Simon Gary L. , Bethony Jeffrey M. , Firestein Gary S.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To determine if chikungunya virus persists in synovial fluid after infection, potentially acting as a causative mechanism of persistent arthritis.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 38 Colombian participants with clinical chikungunya virus infection during the 2014–2015 epidemic who reported chronic arthritis and 10 location‐matched controls without chikungunya virus or arthritis. Prior chikungunya virus infection status was serologically confirmed, and the presence of synovial fluid chikungunya virus, viral RNA, and viral proteins was determined by viral culture, quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), and mass spectrometry, respectively. Biomarkers were assessed by multiplex analysis.

Results

Patients with serologically confirmed chikungunya arthritis (33 of 38 [87%]) were predominantly female (82%) and African Colombian (55%) or white Colombian (33%), with moderate disease activity (mean ± SD Disease Activity Score in 28 joints 4.52 ± 0.77) a median of 22 months after infection (interquartile range 21–23 months). Initial symptoms of chikungunya virus infection included joint pain (97%), swelling (97%), stiffness (91%), and fever (91%). The most commonly affected joints were the knees (87%), elbows (76%), wrists (75%), ankles (56%), fingers (56%), and toes (56%). Synovial fluid samples from all patients with chikungunya arthritis were negative for chikungunya virus on qRT‐PCR, showed no viral proteins on mass spectrometry, and cultures were negative. Case and control plasma cytokine and chemokine concentrations did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

This is one of the largest observational studies involving analysis of the synovial fluid of chikungunya arthritis patients. Synovial fluid analysis revealed no detectable chikungunya virus. This finding suggests that chikungunya virus may cause arthritis through induction of potential host autoimmunity, suggesting a role for immunomodulating agents in the treatment of chikungunya arthritis, or that low‐level viral persistence exists in synovial tissue only and is undetectable in synovial fluid.
Reaction Product Variability and Biological Activity of the Lactoperoxidase System Depending on Medium Ionic Strength and pH, and on Substrate Relative Concentration
Authors: Bafort Françoise , Damblon Christian , Smargiasso Nicolas , De Pauw Edwin , Perraudin Jean‐Paul , Jijakli Mohamed Haïssam
Published: December 2017

The potential of ions produced in water by the lactoperoxidase system against plant pests has shown promising results. We tested the bioactivity of ions produced by the lactoperoxidase oxidation of I− and SCN− in several buffers or in tap water and characterized the ions produced. In vitro biological activity was tested against Penicillium expansum, the causal agent of mold in fruits, and the major cause of patulin contamination of fruit juices and compotes. In buffers, the ionic concentration was increased 3‐fold, and pathogen inhibition was obtained down to the 1:15 dilution. In tap water, the ionic concentration was weaker, and pathogen inhibition was obtained only down to the 1:3 dilution. Acidic buffer increased ion concentrations as compared to less acidic (pH 5.6 or 6.2) or neutral buffers, as do increased ionic strength. 13C‐labelled SCN− and MS showed that different ions were produced in water and in buffers. In specific conditions the ion solution turned yellow and a product was formed, probably diiodothiocyanate (I2SCN−), giving an intense signal at 49.7 ppm in 13C‐NMR. The formation of the signal was unambiguously favored in acidic media and disadvantaged or inhibited in neutral or basic conditions. It was enhanced at a specific SCN−: I− ratio of 1:4.5, but decreased when the ratio was 1:2, and was inhibited at ratio SCN−>I−. We demonstrated that the formation of the signal required the interaction between I2 and SCN−, and MS showed the presence of I2SCN−.
Injury resulting from targeted violence: An emergency department perspective
Authors: Sivarajasingam Vaseekaran , Read Simon , Svobodova Martina , Wight Lucy , Shepherd Jonathan
Published: December 2017

Background

Hate crimes – those perpetrated because of perceived difference, including disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender status – have not been studied at the point of the victim's hospital emergency department (ED) use.

Aim

To investigate the frequency, levels of physical harm and circumstances of targeted violence in those seeking treatment at EDs in three UK cities.

Method

In a multimethods study, face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 124 adult ED attenders with violent injuries. Victim and perpetrator socio‐demographics were recorded. Patient narratives about perceived motives and circumstances were transcribed, uploaded onto NVivo for thematic analysis.

Results

Nearly a fifth (23, 18.5%) of the injured patients considered themselves to have been attacked by others motivated by hostility or prejudice to their ‘difference’ (targeted violence). Thematic analyses suggested these prejudices were to appearance (7 cases), racial tension (5 cases), territorial association (3 cases) and race, religious or sexual orientation (8 cases). According to victims, alcohol intoxication was particularly relevant in targeted violence (estimated reported frequency 90% and 56% for targeted and non‐targeted violence, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings support a broader concept of hate victimisation and suggest that emergency room violence surveys could act as a community tension sensor and early warning system in this regard. Tackling alcohol misuse seems as important in this as in other forms of violence perpetration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with zonisamide
Authors: Vivar Karina L. , Mancl Kimberly , Seminario‐Vidal Lucia
Published: December 2017

Key Clinical Message

This report highlights zonisamide as a potential cause of serious cutaneous reactions as well as its cross‐reactivity with other sulfonamides. Here, we present a case of SJS‐TEN due to zonisamide, which was effectively treated with IVIg. Subsequently, the patient was transitioned to levetiracetam for seizure control.
Prostate carcinoma presenting with diffuse osteolytic metastases and supraclavicular lymphadenopathy mimicking multiple myeloma
Authors: Idowu Bukunmi Michael
Published: December 2017

Key Clinical Message

Prostate cancer typically presents with osteoblastic metastases; however, patients with prostate cancer may have osteolytic metastases, as seen in this case. Patients with osteolytic metastases require a thorough evaluation to rule out malignancies including multiple myeloma, but prostate cancer is a very important differential diagnosis.
Investigation of the combination of TiO2 nanoparticles and drag reducer polymer effects on the heat transfer and drag characteristics of nanofluids
Authors: Paryani Sadra , Ramazani S.A. Ahmad
Published: December 2017

To compensate for drag increment due to the addition of nanoparticles to heat‐transfer fluids, it seems that one could add drag reducer polymeric agents to these fluids. So, in this work, experiments were carried out for solutions of two types of polyacrylamide (FLOPAAM 3330S and FLOPAAM 3630S) at three distinct concentrations (25, 40, and 55 ppm), and TiO2‐water nanofluid at concentrations of 0.015, 0.02, 0.025, and 0.03 L/L. The steady state turbulent convective heat transfer and the friction factor of the suspension of TiO2 in a dilute solution of very high molecular weight, polyacrylamide (hybrid fluid), in a coiled tube were analyzed. Experimental measurements were carried out from a Reynolds number of 11 000 to 21 000 and a constant temperature (24 °C) of the cool bath. The obtained results have shown that for the suspension of nanoparticles, the Nusselt number and drag coefficient increase, whereas for dilute solutions containing only the drag reducer agent, both the Nusselt number and the drag coefficient decrease. However, the combination of the nanoparticle and polymeric drag reducer agent increased the heat transfer coefficient, but decreased the drag coefficient, especially at the highest measured Reynolds number (Re = 21 000).
Postmarket Safety Outcomes for New Molecular Entity (NME) Drugs Approved by the Food and Drug Administration Between 2002 and 2014
Authors: Pinnow Ellen , Amr Sania , Bentzen Søren M. , Brajovic Sonja , Hungerford Laura , St. George Diane Marie , Dal Pan Gerald
Published: December 2017

We ascertained a comprehensive list of postmarket safety outcomes, defined as a safety‐related market withdrawal or an update to a safety‐related section of product label for 278 new molecular entity drugs (NMEs) with a follow‐up period of up to 13 years. At least one safety‐related update was added to 195 (70.1%) labels of the drugs studied. Updates occurred as early as 160 days after approval and throughout the follow‐up period. The period between the second and eighth postapproval year was the most active, with a slight attenuation thereafter. The times to the first safety outcome were significantly shorter for NMEs approved with a fast‐track designation (P = 0.02) or under an accelerated approval using a surrogate endpoint (P = 0.03). Our findings underscore the importance of a robust safety surveillance system throughout a drug's lifecycle and for practitioners and patients to remain updated on drug safety profiles.
Flow cytometric fingerprinting for microbial strain discrimination and physiological characterization
Authors: Buysschaert Benjamin , Kerckhof Frederiek‐Maarten , Vandamme Peter , De Baets Bernard , Boon Nico
Published: December 2017

The analysis of microbial populations is fundamental, not only for developing a deeper understanding of microbial communities but also for their engineering in biotechnological applications. Many methods have been developed to study their characteristics and over the last few decades, molecular analysis tools, such as DNA sequencing, have been used with considerable success to identify the composition of microbial populations. Recently, flow cytometric fingerprinting is emerging as a promising and powerful method to analyze bacterial populations. So far, these methods have primarily been used to observe shifts in the composition of microbial communities of natural samples. In this article, we apply a flow cytometric fingerprinting method to discriminate among 29 Lactobacillus strains. Our results indicate that it is possible to discriminate among 27 Lactobacillus strains by staining with SYBR green I and that the discriminatory power can be increased by combined SYBR green I and propidium iodide staining. Furthermore, we illustrate the impact of physiological changes on the fingerprinting method by demonstrating how flow cytometric fingerprinting is able to discriminate the different growth phases of a microbial culture. The sensitivity of the method is assessed by its ability to detect changes in the relative abundance of a mix of polystyrene beads down to 1.2%. When a mix of bacteria was used, the sensitivity was as between 1.2% and 5%. The presented data demonstrate that flow cytometric fingerprinting is a sensitive and reproducible technique with the potential to be applied as a method for the dereplication of bacterial isolates. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Safety profile and efficacy of ivabradine in heart failure due to Chagas heart disease: a post hoc analysis of the SHIFT trial
Authors: Bocchi Edimar Alcides , Rassi Salvador , Guimarães Guilherme Veiga ,   Argentina, Chile, and Brazil SHIFT Investigators
Published: December 2017

Aims

The SHIFT trial showed that ivabradine reduced heart rate (HR) and the risk of cardiovascular outcomes. Concerns remain over the efficacy and safety of ivabradine on heart failure (HF) due to Chagas disease (ChD). We therefore conducted a post hoc analysis of the SHIFT trial to investigate the effect of ivabradine in these patients.

Methods and results

SHIFT was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in symptomatic systolic stable HF, HR ≥ 70 b.p.m., and in sinus rhythm. The ChD HF subgroup included 38 patients, 20 on ivabradine, and 18 on placebo. The ChD HF subgroup showed high prevalence of bundle branch right block and, compared with the overall SHIFT population, lower systolic blood pressure; higher use of diuretics, cardiac glycosides, and antialdosterone agents; and lower use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocker or target daily dose of beta‐blocker. ChD HF presented a poor prognosis (all‐cause mortality at 2 years was ~60%). The mean twice‐daily dose of ivabradine was 6.26 ± 1.15 mg and placebo 6.43 ± 1.55 mg. Ivabradine reduced HR from 77.9 ± 3.8 to 62.3 ± 10.1 b.p.m. (P = 0.005) and improved functional class (P = 0.02). A trend towards reduction in all‐cause death was observed in ivabradine arm vs. placebo (P = 0.07). Ivabradine was not associated with serious bradycardia, atrioventricular block, hypotension, or syncope.

Conclusions

ChD HF is an advanced form of HF with poor prognosis. Ivabradine was effective in reducing HR in these patients and improving functional class. Although our results are based on a very limited sample and should be interpreted with caution, they suggest that ivabradine may have a favourable benefit–risk profile in ChD HF patients.
Continuous Flow Synthesis of Urea‐Containing Compound Libraries Based on the Piperidin‐4‐one Scaffold
Authors: Riesco‐Domínguez Alejandra , Blanco‐Ania Daniel , Rutjes Floris P. J. T.
Published: December 2017

The advantages of performing reactions in continuous flow vs. the classic batch processes render flow chemistry a suitable technique for library synthesis. Inspired by our recent work to create fluorine‐containing nitrogen heterocycles and by the potential of the urea group in drug design, we herewith describe the combination of both aspects in the continuous flow synthesis of two libraries of urea derivatives based on the piperidin‐4‐one scaffold.
Self‐Powered Low‐Platinum Nanorod Alloy Monoelectrodes for Rain Energy Harvest
Authors: Duan Yanyan , Duan Jialong , Zhao Yuanyuan , Tang Qunwei , He Benlin
Published: December 2017

Here self‐powered low‐platinum coated copper nanorod alloy monoelectrodes are designed to generate electricity from rain, assisted by poly(ethylene oxide)/polyaniline conductive adhesive. Arising from charging/discharging processes of the electric double‐layer pseudocapacitance at electron‐enriched monoelectrode/rainwater interfaces, the monoelectrode yields a current signal of several microamps under dripping simulated raindrops. By optimizing stoichiometric Cu/Pt ratio, dripping velocity, cation concentration, and cation species, the current outputs are maximized.
Experimental and simulation investigation of effect of biodiesel‐diesel blend on performance, combustion, and emission characteristics of a diesel engine
Authors: Amini Niaki Seyed Reza , Mahdavi Sajad , Mouallem Joseph
Published: December 2017

In order to reduce the harmful effect on the environment, using the oxygenated fuels such as biofuel blends as fuel has been on the spotlights for the internal combustion engines. For this rationale; the diesel engine operated with blends of sunflower biodiesel and diesel fuel (blending of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 100% biodiesel fuel with conventional diesel fuel). In this study, an experimental and numerical model for Heat release rate (HRR) and the characteristic performance of diesel engine such as cylinder pressure and emission characteristics (NOx, CO, and HC) in internal combustion engines is presented. To ensure the integrity of modeling, the results were compared with the experimental results. This comparison indicated a good agreement between the two. A Gaussian and Fourier series of second order was used to define a function relating the pressure and emission characteristics. Presented numerical model, implemented in proprietary software AVL FIRE, is able to capture chemical phenomena and to predict pollutant emission concentration trends. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1540–1550, 2018
Common terms for rare epilepsies: Synonyms, associated terms, and links to structured vocabularies
Authors: Grinspan Zachary M. , Tian Niu , Yozawitz Elissa G. , McGoldrick Patricia E. , Wolf Steven M. , McDonough Tiffani L. , Nelson Aaron , Hafeez Baria , Johnson Stephen B. , Hesdorffer Dale C.
Published: December 2017

Identifying individuals with rare epilepsy syndromes in electronic data sources is difficult, in part because of missing codes in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system. Our objectives were the following: (1) to describe the representation of rare epilepsies in other medical vocabularies, to identify gaps; and (2) to compile synonyms and associated terms for rare epilepsies, to facilitate text and natural language processing tools for cohort identification and population‐based surveillance. We describe the representation of 33 epilepsies in 3 vocabularies: Orphanet, SNOMED‐CT, and UMLS‐Metathesaurus. We compiled terms via 2 surveys, correspondence with parent advocates, and review of web resources and standard vocabularies. UMLS‐Metathesaurus had entries for all 33 epilepsies, Orphanet 32, and SNOMED‐CT 25. The vocabularies had redundancies and missing phenotypes. Emerging epilepsies (SCN2A‐, SCN8A‐, KCNQ2‐, SLC13A5‐, and SYNGAP‐related epilepsies) were underrepresented. Survey and correspondence respondents included 160 providers, 375 caregivers, and 11 advocacy group leaders. Each epilepsy syndrome had a median of 15 (range 6–28) synonyms. Nineteen had associated terms, with a median of 4 (range 1–41). We conclude that medical vocabularies should fill gaps in representation of rare epilepsies to improve their value for epilepsy research. We encourage epilepsy researchers to use this resource to develop tools to identify individuals with rare epilepsies in electronic data sources.
A functional near‐infrared spectroscopic investigation of speech production during reading
Authors: Wan Nick , Hancock Allison S. , Moon Todd K. , Gillam Ronald B.
Published: December 2017

This study was designed to test the extent to which speaking processes related to articulation and voicing influence Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) measures of cortical hemodynamics and functional connectivity. Participants read passages in three conditions (oral reading, silent mouthing, and silent reading) while undergoing fNIRS imaging. Area under the curve (AUC) analyses of the oxygenated and deoxygenated hemodynamic response function concentration values were compared for each task across five regions of interest. There were significant region main effects for both oxy and deoxy AUC analyses, and a significant region × task interaction for deoxy AUC favoring the oral reading condition over the silent reading condition for two nonmotor regions. Assessment of functional connectivity using Granger Causality revealed stronger networks between motor areas during oral reading and stronger networks between language areas during silent reading. There was no evidence that the hemodynamic flow from motor areas during oral reading compromised measures of language‐related neural activity in nonmotor areas. However, speech movements had small, but measurable effects on fNIRS measures of neural connections between motor and nonmotor brain areas across the perisylvian region, even after wavelet filtering. Therefore, researchers studying speech processes with fNIRS should use wavelet filtering during preprocessing to reduce speech motion artifacts, incorporate a nonspeech communication or language control task into the research design, and conduct a connectivity analysis to adequately assess the impact of functional speech on the hemodynamic response across the perisylvian region.
Shift work and sickness absence—the mediating roles of work–home conflict and perceived health
Authors: Jacobsen Dag Ingvar , Fjeldbraaten Elin M.
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the relationship between sickness absence and shift work. It is hypothesized that the effect of shift work is linked to sickness absence by two mediators: perceived health and work‐family conflict (WFC). Shift work was hypothesized to have an adverse effect on health, as well as making work‐family balance harder to obtain, both in turn resulting in higher sickness absence. The study distinguishes between self‐declared (short‐term) and doctor declared (long‐term) sickness absence. A survey was conducted covering all employees in a Norwegian hospital working more than 30 % of a full position (N=5272) in January 2012, yielding 1864 valid responses (% response = 36). Survey data was coupled with register data on days of sickness absence in 2014. A model with perceived health and WFC as mediating variables between shift work and sickness absence was tested. The findings indicate no direct effect of shift work on sickness absence, but indirect effects both through WFC and perceived health.
A LONGITUDINAL, PERSON‐CENTERED ANALYSIS OF EARLY HEAD START MOTHERS’ PARENTING
Authors: Paschall Katherine W. , Mastergeorge Ann M.
Published: December 2017

This study used a person‐centered approach to examine stability and change in parenting typologies across early childhood. Profiles were associated within and across time with contextual covariates, including demographic characteristics, risk factors, and Early Head Start participation. Participants were drawn from the Early Head Start Research and Evaluation Project (N = 2, 876). Parenting profiles were identified based on observed parenting dimensions at 14, 24, and 36 months, and pre‐Kindergarten (pre‐K). Results suggested a four‐profile solution at each time point: Supportive, Lukewarm (14 & 24 months)/Sufficient (36 months and pre‐K), Harsh, and Detached. Supportive was the largest, most stable, and most likely transitioned into profile while Harsh and Detached represented rare profiles with moderate to low membership stability across time. Depression and family conflict emerged as important correlates of unsupportive parenting profiles both within and across time. Findings are discussed in terms of their relevance for both policy and implementation practices for low‐income mothers with young children.
PDGFB as a vascular normalization agent in an ovarian cancer model treated with a gamma‐secretase inhibitor
Authors: Pazos Maria C. , Sequeira Gonzalo , Bocchicchio Sebastian , May Maria , Abramovich Dalhia , Parborell Fernanda , Tesone Marta , Irusta Griselda
Published: December 2017

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in women. In the past 20 years, the canonical types of drugs used to treat ovarian cancer have not been replaced and the survival rates have not changed. These facts show the clear need to find new therapeutic strategies for this illness. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a gamma‐secretase inhibitor (DAPT) in combination with the Platelet‐derived growth factor B (PDGFB) on an ovarian cancer xenograft model. To achieve this goal, we analyzed the effect of the administration of DAPT alone and the co‐administration of DAPT and recombinant PDGFB on parameters associated with tumor growth and angiogenesis in an orthotopic experimental model of ovarian cancer. We observed that the dose of DAPT used was ineffective to reduce ovarian tumor growth, but showed anticancer activity when co‐administered with recombinant PDGFB. The administration of PDGFB alone normalized tumor vasculature by increasing periendothelial coverage and vascular functionality. Interestingly, this effect exerted by PDGFB was also observed in the presence of DAPT. Our findings suggest that PDGFB is able to improve tumor vascularity and allows the anticancer action of DAPT in the tumor. We propose that this therapeutic strategy could be a new tool for ovarian cancer treatment and deserves further studies.
Efficient preparative separation of β‐cypermethrin stereoisomers by supercritical fluid chromatography with a two‐step combined strategy
Authors: Yan Yilun , Fan Jun , Lai Yecai , He Jianfeng , Guo Dong , Zhang Hui , Zhang Weiguang
Published: December 2017

An efficient two‐step method has been developed for the separation of β‐cypermethrin stereoisomers by supercritical fluid chromatography with polysaccharide chiral stationary phases. With respect to retention, selectivity, and resolution of β‐cypermethrin, the effects of chiral stationary phases, cosolvents, mobile phases, and column temperature have been studied in detail. Through a two‐step separation, β‐cypermethrin was firstly separated by using a cellulose‐derived chiral stationary phase to obtain two stereoisomeric pairs, and further resolved on an amylose‐based chiral stationary phase to produce four enantiopure stereoisomers. The electronic circular dichroism patterns of the first‐ and the third‐eluted isomers in methanol solution showed the mirror image of each other in the wavelength range 200∼300 nm, indicating that they were a pair of enantiomers. Moreover, the second‐ and the fourth‐eluted isomers were also enantiomers. This proposed two‐step strategy showed low solvent consumption, fast separation speed, and high‐purity, which may provide an effective approach for preparative separation of compounds with multiple chiral centers and difficult‐to‐separate multicomponent samples.
Prevention of tracheal inflammation and fibrosis using nitinol stent coated with doxycycline
Authors: Choi Jeong‐Seok , Kim Jeong‐Mi , Kim Ji‐Won , Kim Young‐Mo , Park In Suh , Yang Su‐Geun
Published: December 2017

Objectives

This study was conducted to determine whether a nitinol stent coated with doxycycline prevents tracheal inflammation and fibrosis in a rabbit.

Methods

A nitinol stent coated with doxycycline was designed by us. Twelve rabbits were divided into three groups: normal, control (nondoxycycline‐coated stent), and doxycycline‐coated stent group. The stents were inserted into the tracheal lumen through the oral cavity. Tracheal granulation was evaluated and graded by laryngoscopy. Histological examinations evaluated the inflammatory response and fibrosis. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot assessed the changes to the extracellular matrix (ECM).

Results

Endoscopic findings showed that the nitinol stent coated with doxycycline resulted in lesser granulation tissue in the trachea than the noncoated stent. Histologic examination further revealed that the doxycycline‐coated stent was associated with decreased inflammatory cells and reduced fibrosis, compared to the noncoated stent. In PCR and Western blot, the doxycycline‐coated stent showed lower expression of ECM components inducing fibrosis.

Conclusion

A nitinol stent coated with doxycycline showed favorable effects in reducing tracheal inflammation and fibrosis in a rabbit model. Further research is required to study the beneficial effects of local application of doxycycline for prevention of tracheal stenosis.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:1558–1563, 2018
Marine bacterial richness increases towards higher latitudes in the eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: Raes Eric J. , Bodrossy Levente , van de Kamp Jodie , Bissett Andrew , Waite Anya M.
Published: December 2017

We investigated the bacterial community structure in surface waters along a 2500 km transect in the eastern Indian Ocean. Using high throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, we measured a significant latitudinal increase in bacterial richness from 800 to 1400 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) (42% increase; r2 = 0.65; p < 0.001) from the tropical Timor Sea to the colder temperate waters. Total dissolved inorganic nitrogen, chlorophyll a, phytoplankton community structure, and primary productivity strongly correlated with bacterial richness (all p < 0.01). Our data suggest that primary productivity drives greater bacterial richness. Because, N2‐fixation accounts for up to 50% of new production in this region we tested whether higher N2‐fixation rates are linked to a greater nifH diversity. The nifH diversity was dominated by heterotrophic Alphaproteobacteria, Betaproteobacteria, and Gammaproteobacteria. We did not find any mechanistic links between nifH amplicon data, bacterial richness, and primary productivity due to the overall low nifH evenness in this region.
Solvability near the characteristic set for a class of first‐order linear partial differential operators
Authors: Cerniauskas Wanderley A. , Dattori da Silva Paulo L.
Published: December 2017

In this work we deal with solvability of first‐order differential equations in the form , where L is a planar complex vector field, elliptic everywhere except along a simple closed curve Σ on which it is tangent and vanishes of order . In contrast with the local solvability, it is shown that the zero order term p has influence in the solvability in a full neighborhood of Σ.
Simultaneous multi‐slice combined with PROPELLER
Authors: Norbeck Ola , Avventi Enrico , Engström Mathias , Rydén Henric , Skare Stefan
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Simultaneous multi‐slice (SMS) imaging is an advantageous method for accelerating MRI scans, allowing reduced scan time, increased slice coverage, or high temporal resolution with limited image quality penalties. In this work we combine the advantages of SMS acceleration with the motion correction and artifact reduction capabilities of the PROPELLER technique.

Methods

A PROPELLER sequence was developed with support for CAIPIRINHA and phase optimized multiband radio frequency pulses. To minimize the time spent on acquiring calibration data, both in‐plane‐generalized autocalibrating partial parallel acquisition (GRAPPA) and slice‐GRAPPA weights for all PROPELLER blade angles were calibrated on a single fully sampled PROPELLER blade volume. Therefore, the proposed acquisition included a single fully sampled blade volume, with the remaining blades accelerated in both the phase and slice encoding directions without additional auto calibrating signal lines. Comparison to 3D RARE was performed as well as demonstration of 3D motion correction performance on the SMS PROPELLER data.

Results

We show that PROPELLER acquisitions can be efficiently accelerated with SMS using a short embedded calibration. The potential in combining these two techniques was demonstrated with a high quality 1.0 × 1.0 × 1.0 mm3 resolution T2‐weighted volume, free from banding artifacts, and capable of 3D retrospective motion correction, with higher effective resolution compared to 3D RARE.

Conclusion

With the combination of SMS acceleration and PROPELLER imaging, thin‐sliced reformattable T2‐weighted image volumes with 3D retrospective motion correction capabilities can be rapidly acquired with low sensitivity to flow and head motion. Magn Reson Med 80:496–506, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Diffusion tensor cardiovascular magnetic resonance with a spiral trajectory: An in vivo comparison of echo planar and spiral stimulated echo sequences
Authors: Gorodezky Margarita , Scott Andrew D. , Ferreira Pedro F. , Nielles‐Vallespin Sonia , Pennell Dudley J. , Firmin David N.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Diffusion tensor cardiovascular MR (DT‐CMR) using stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) with echo‐planar‐imaging (EPI) readouts is a low signal‐to‐noise‐ratio (SNR) technique and therefore typically has a low spatial resolution. Spiral trajectories are more efficient than EPI, and could increase the SNR. The purpose of this study was to compare the performance of a novel STEAM spiral DT‐CMR sequence with an equivalent established EPI technique.

Methods

A STEAM DT‐CMR sequence was implemented with a spiral readout and a reduced field of view. An in vivo comparison of DT‐CMR parameters and data quality between EPI and spiral was performed in 11 healthy volunteers imaged in peak systole and diastasis at 3 T. The SNR was compared in a phantom and in vivo.

Results

There was a greater than 49% increase in the SNR in vivo and in the phantom measurements (in vivo septum, systole: SNREPI = 8.0 ± 2.2, SNRspiral = 12.0 ± 2.7; diastasis: SNREPI = 8.1 ± 1.6, SNRspiral = 12.0 ± 3.7). There were no significant differences in helix angle gradient (HAG) (systole: HAGEPI = −0.79 ± 0.07 °/%; HAGspiral = −0.74 ± 0.16 °/%;P = 0.11; diastasis: HAGEPI = −0.63 ± 0.05 °/%; HAGspiral = −0.56 ± 0.14 °/%;P = 0.20), mean diffusivity (MD) in systole (MDEPI = 0.99 ± 0.06 × 10−3mm2/s, MDspiral = 1.00 ± 0.09 × 10−3mm2/s,P = 0.23) and secondary eigenvector angulation (E2A) (systole: E2AEPI = 61 ± 10 °; E2Aspiral = 63 ± 10 °;P = 0.77; diastasis: E2AEPI = 18 ± 11 °; E2Aspiral = 15 ± 8 °;P = 0.20) between the sequences. There was a small difference (≈ 20%) in fractional anisotropy (FA) (systole: FAEPI = 0.49 ± 0.03, FAspiral = 0.41 ± 0.04;P < 0.01; diastasis: FAEPI = 0.66 ± 0.05, FAspiral = 0.55 ± 0.03;P < 0.01) and mean diffusivity in diastasis (10%; MDEPI = 1.00 ± 0.12 × 10−3mm2/s, MDspiral = 1.10 ± 0.09 × 10−3mm2/s,P = 0.02).

Conclusion

This is the first study to demonstrate DT‐CMR STEAM using a spiral trajectory. The SNR was increased by using a spiral rather than the more established EPI readout, and the DT‐CMR parameters were largely similar between the two sequences. Magn Reson Med 80:648–654, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
A diffusion‐based method for long‐T2 suppression in steady state sequences: Validation and application for 3D‐UTE imaging
Authors: Soustelle Lucas , Lamy Julien , Rousseau François , Armspach Jean‐Paul , Loureiro de Sousa Paulo
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To introduce a novel method for long‐T2 signal physical suppression in steady‐state based on configuration states combination and modulation using diffusion weighting. Its efficiency in yielding a high contrast in short‐T2 structures using an ultrashort echo time acquisition module (Diff‐UTE) is compared to the adiabatically prepared Inversion‐Recovery‐UTE sequence (IR‐UTE).

Theory and Methods

Using a rectangular‐pulse prepared 3D‐UTE sequence, the possibility of long‐T2 component signal cancellation through diffusion effects is addressed, and the condition met for sets of sequence parameters. Simultaneously, the short‐T2 component signal is maximized using a Bloch equation‐based optimization process. The method is evaluated from simulations, and experiments are conducted on a phantom composed of short and long‐T2 components, as well as on an ex vivo mouse head.

Results

Within equal scan times, the proposed method allowed for an efficient long‐T2 signal suppression, and expectedly yielded a higher signal to noise ratio in short‐T2 structures compared to the IR‐UTE technique, although an intrinsic short‐T2 signal loss is expected through the preparation module.

Conclusion

The Diff‐UTE method represents an interesting alternative to the IR‐UTE technique. Diffusion weighting allowing for a long‐T2 suppression results in a less penalizing method to generate a high and selective contrast in short‐T2 components. Magn Reson Med 80:548–559, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Evaluation of poly(ethylene terephthalate) powder as a material for selective laser sintering, and characterization of printed part
Authors: Bashir Zahir , Gu Hao , Yang Lanti
Published: December 2017

This work reports the finding that poly(ethylene terephthalate) [PET] powder is a good material for use in selective laser sintering (SLS). SLS of polymer powders is one of the 3D printing or “additive manufacturing” methods. However, the use of SLS for polymers has been stymied by a paucity of suitable powders. Polyamide 12 (PA 12) has been the best material for SLS, and it is commercially the dominant one currently. However, for wider adoption of SLS as a manufacturing method, powders from cheaper commodity polymers are sought. Curling, gross porosity and a lack of print accuracy are problems faced with many polymers. In this work, we have established that highly crystalline PET powder is surprisingly good for SLS, having a wide operating window. The PET powder gave sharp details in printed objects, and the surface finish and gloss were superior to PA 12. Further, the unused PET powder from the build chamber showed good retention of material properties like molecular weight, despite being exposed to heat for prolonged periods. Due to the expense of SLS powders, re‐use capability is also an important requirement of the material. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1888–1900, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Strong synergistic improvement of mechanical properties in HDPE/COC blends with fibrillar morphology
Authors: Ostafinska Aleksandra , Vackova Tatana , Slouf Miroslav
Published: December 2017

High‐density polyethylene/cycloolefin copolymer (HDPE/COC) blends with fibrous morphology were prepared. Mechanical properties in the whole concentration range were measured in both macroscale (tensile measurements) and microscale (microindentation hardness testing). Strong improvement of mechanical performance was observed namely for the blends with soft HDPE matrix reinforced with the stiff oriented COC fibers. The combined results from scanning electron microscopy, mechanical properties measurements and theoretical calculations based on predictive models showed that the interfacial adhesion was unusually high, which could be attributed to the excellent compatibility or even partial miscibility of the blend components. The HDPE/COC blends with 10–40% of COC showed the synergistic improvement of the tensile energy to break (ETB) that exceeded the ETB of both individual components. Also the stiffness of the blends, represented by the elastic modulus, the yield strength and the microhardness were very high, above the theoretical values predicted by the equivalent box model. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1955–1964, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Novel Pickering stabilizer constituted by graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes for Fabricating poly(methyl methacrylate) nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Baichen , Liu Yongna , Li Wei , Gao Yu
Published: December 2017

A novel carbon nanohybrid Pickering stabilizer was synthesized via a hydrothermal reaction of 2‐ethyl‐4‐methylimidazole (EMI), graphene oxide (GO), and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The EMI/GO/CNTs encapsulated poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microspheres were achieved via suspension polymerization after the formation of stable oil‐in‐water (o/w) Pickering emulsion using the as‐prepared EMI/GO/CNTs stabilizer, which were used to elaborate PMMA‐based nanocomposites through compression molding technique. Infra‐red (IR) spectra and contact angle (CA) measurements showed that EMI/GO/CNTs nanohybrids was amphiphilic in nature. Mechanical tests and scanning electron microscope observation were performed to characterize the properties and microstructure of the resulting nanocomposites. PMMA nanocomposites containing networking EMI/GO/CNTs nanohybrids exhibited the maximum flexural strength of 73.1 MPa and compressive strength of 218.4 MPa at a GO‐to‐CNTs mass ratio of 6:1, respectively. The influences of the amount of EMI/GO/CNTs stabilizer and the ratio of GO to CNTs on the structure and properties of PMMA nanocomposites were discussed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1975–1980, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers