bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of Electronic States of Hybrid Lead Halide Perovskite Embedded in Organic Matrix
Authors: Singh Shivam , Dey Amrita , Kolay Santa , Kabra Dinesh
Published: October 2019

The modulation of electronic states of MAPbX3 perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) (MA = CH3NH3+ and X = Br− and I−) is presented as a function of crystallite size in organic semiconductor matrix forming a type‐I heterostructure with bulk perovskites. Organic semiconductor molecule (4,4′‐bis[9‐dicarbazolyl]‐2,2′‐biphenyl [CBP] and bathocuproine [BCP]) precursors are mixed in different volumetric ratios with MAPbX3 perovskite precursors to prepare thin films. This results into an easy growth of MAPbX3 PNCs of tunable sizes from ≈110 to ≈10 nm in organic semiconductor matrix. A blue shift is observed in the photoluminescence peak (PLmax) energy over a range of ≈200 meV for MAPbI3 PNCs embedded in the BCP matrix. However, PLmax energy tunes over ≈32 meV only with a similar volumetric concentration in the case of MAPbBr3 PNCs in the same BCP matrix. Moreover, the PL blue shift is even lower in the case of CBP matrix in comparison with BCP matrix for both the perovskites. This discrepancy could be resolved by determining the resultant crystallite size using X‐ray diffraction studies and the Debye–Scherrer formula. Results about blue shift in the PL peak can be explained using the classic particle‐in‐a‐box versus excitonic Bohr radius model under a weak confinement regime.
Thermodynamic analysis of a hybrid energy system using geothermal and solar energy sources with thermal storage in a residential building
Authors: Seyam Shaimaa , Dincer Ibrahim , Agelin‐Chaab Martin
Published: October 2019

Residential buildings in Canada require remarkable heating loads in the winter. Many homeowners potentially consider more cost effective and environmentally‐benign solutions, including solar energy systems, in order to replace fossil fuels. However, this might not be efficient because many cities are exposed to minimum solar radiation resulting in large surface area of solar panels. Therefore, a hybrid energy system is designed to combine five photovoltaic thermal solar panels, a 300‐m geothermal loop, and 9463.53‐kg water of phase change material thermal battery storage for a residential building of 325 m2 total floor space in the city of Oshawa, Canada. The building has maximum heating and cooling loads of 13.8 and 8.7 kW, respectively. A thermodynamic analysis is applied to the system in January and the whole year. It was found that the solar panels can supply thermal energy and electrical power of 8 and 50 W, respectively, in January, while the geothermal and thermal storage energy can provide 16.8 and 9 kW over the year, respectively. The hybrid system requires an additional heating load of 1.85 kW from the furnace. The overall energetic and exergetic coefficient of performance of the system are estimated to be 54.58% and 3.34% in the winter and 42.6% and 4.47% in the summer, respectively.
RNA Interference Therapy With ARC‐520 Results in Prolonged Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Response in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Yuen Man‐Fung , Schiefke Ingolf , Yoon Jung‐Hwan , Ahn Sang Hoon , Heo Jeong , Kim Ju Hyun , Lik Yuen Chan Henry , Yoon Ki Tae , Klinker Hartwig , Manns Michael , Petersen Joerg , Schluep Thomas , Hamilton James , Given Bruce D. , Ferrari Carlo , Lai Ching‐Lung , Locarnini Stephen A. , Gish Robert G.
Published: October 2019

Background and Aims

ARC‐520, the first an RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutic, was designed to reduce all RNA transcripts derived from covalently closed circular DNA, leading to a reduction in viral antigens and hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA.

Approach and Results

We aimed to evaluate the depth of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) decline in response to multiple doses of ARC‐520 compared to placebo (PBO) in two randomized, multicenter studies in nucleoside/nucleotide analogue reverse‐transcriptase inhibitor (NUC)–experienced patients with hepatitis B early antigen (HBeAg)–negative (E‐neg) or HBeAg‐positive (E‐pos) disease. A total of 58 E‐neg and 32 E‐pos patients were enrolled and received four monthly doses of PBO (n = 20 E‐neg, 11 E‐pos), 1 mg/kg ARC‐520 (n = 17 E‐neg, 10 E‐pos), or 2 mg/kg ARC‐520 (n = 21 E‐neg, 11 E‐pos) concomitantly with NUC. HBsAg change from baseline to 30 days after the last ARC‐520 dose were compared to PBO. Both E‐neg and E‐pos high‐dose groups significantly reduced HBsAg compared to PBO, with mean reductions of 0.38 and 0.54 log IU/mL, respectively. HBsAg reductions persisted for approximately 85 days and >85 days after the last dose in E‐neg and E‐pos patients, respectively. The low‐dose groups did not reach statistical significance in either study. E‐pos patients showed a dose‐dependent reduction in HBeAg from baseline. Mean maximum reduction was 0.23 and 0.69 log Paul Ehrlich IUs/mL in the low‐dose and high dose ARC‐520 groups respectively. ARC‐520 was well tolerated, with only two serious adverse events of pyrexia possibly related to study drug observed.

Conclusions

ARC‐520 was active in both E‐neg and E‐pos, NUC‐experienced HBV patients; but absolute HBsAg reductions were moderate, possibly due to expression of HBsAg from integrated HBV DNA, indicating the need for RNAi therapeutics that can target viral transcripts regardless of origin.
Comparison of nitrate export patterns in forested catchments in Japan and the Northeastern United States: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ohte Nobuhito , Katsuyama Masanori
Published: October 2019

Despite the numerous field studies on watersheds in temperate forests, little attention has been paid to differences in the seasonality of NO3‐ exports due to different seasonal patterns of precipitation. Factors that cause seasonal variation in NO3‐ exports include the biological conditions involved in the production of NO3‐ and the hydrological conditions of NO3‐ transport and storage. Previous studies described in this paper reveal that differences in the seasonal patterns of precipitation result in differences in the NO3‐ flux between sites in Japan and the Northeastern United States. In Japanese forests affected by the Asian monsoon and are subject to heavy rainfall and high‐flow conditions during the summer, the NO3‐ concentrations in stream water often increase during the summer growing season. This is a major difference from the typical decrease in NO3‐ concentrations that occur in summer in the Northeastern United States, which is not affected by monsoon conditions. In addition, the orogenically active geology differs in Japanese catchments from those in the United States and is composed of younger bedrock and steep topography in the former. It has been shown that the buffering capacity of stream water is higher in Japan than in the United States, resulting in that the degree of acidification of stream water due to the outflow of NO3‐ is also low in Japan. These comparisons with the United States serve not only to indicate the hydrological and biogeochemical uniqueness involved in the export of NO3‐ in Japanese forest catchments but also to provide a more universal understanding of the mechanisms underlying the differences. To elucidate these mechanisms clearly, a comprehensive database is required for both climatic zones that include the seasonality of nitrogen dynamics within the catchments and descriptions of the hydrological processes. Additionally, a process‐based model is needed, based on the results of a meta‐analysis using the database.
Analysing the contribution of snow water equivalent to the terrestrial water storage over Canada
Authors: Bahrami Ala , Goïta Kalifa , Magagi Ramata
Published: October 2019

In this study, the spatial and temporal variabilities of terrestrial water storage anomaly (TWSA) and snow water equivalent anomaly (SWEA) information obtained from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) twin satellites data were analysed in conjunction with multisource snow products over several basins in the Canadian landmass. Snow water equivalent (SWE) data were extracted from three different sources: Global Snow Monitoring for Climate Research version 2 (GlobSnow2), Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer‐Earth Observing System (AMSR‐E), and Canadian Meteorological Centre (CMC). The objective of the study was to understand whether SWE variations have a significant contribution to terrestrial water storage anomalies in the Canadian landmass. The period was considered from December 2002 to March 2011. Significant relationships were observed between TWSA and SWEA for most of the 15 basins considered (53% to 80% of the basins, depending on the SWE products considered). The best results were obtained with the CMC SWE products compared with satellite‐based SWE data. Stronger relationships were found in snow‐dominated basins (Rs > = 0.7), such as the Liard [root mean square error (RMSE) = 21.4 mm] and Peace Basins (RMSE = 26.76 mm). However, despite high snow accumulation in the north of Quebec, GRACE showed weak or insignificant correlations with SWEA, regardless of the data sources. The same behaviour was observed in the Western Hudson Bay basin. In both regions, it was found that the contribution of non‐SWE compartments including wetland, surface water, as well as soil water storages has a significant impact on the variations of total storage. These components were estimated using the Water‐Global Assessment and Prognosis Global Hydrology Model (WGHM) simulations and then subtracted from GRACE observations. The GRACE‐derived SWEA correlation results showed improved relationships with three SWEA products. The improvement is particularly important in the sub‐basins of the Hudson Bay, where very weak and insignificant results were previously found with GRACE TWSA data. GRACE‐derived SWEA showed a significant relationship with CMC data in 93% of the basins (13% more than GRACE TWSA). Overall, the results indicated the important role of SWE on terrestrial water storage variations.
Fluorescence fingerprints of oral bacteria
Authors: Kang Si‐Mook , de Josselin de Jong Elbert , Higham Susan M. , Hope Christopher K. , Kim Baek‐Il
Published: October 2019

The rapid detection and identification of microorganisms is one of the most important factors in many cases of ill health. The purpose of this study was to determine the fluorescence characteristics of seven oral bacteria using emission spectra with the aim of distinguishing between the bacteria, and to compare fluorescence imaging methods for the direct assessment of oral bacteria. Fluorescence images of each bacterium were obtained under a 405‐nm light source using a two‐filter system. The emissions of all samples were measured with a fluorescence spectrometer. The complete fluorescence data set collected for each sample employed a three‐dimensional data cube. The differences in the autofluorescence characteristics of the seven oral bacteria were determined by principal components analysis (PCA). The fluorescence images of the oral bacteria varied with the genus and the filter system. The three‐dimensional excitation‐emission matrix fluorescence spectra exhibited distinctive fluorescence features associated with intracellular fluorophores. The seven bacteria could be clearly differentiated on the PCA score plot. The findings of this study indicate that oral bacteria can be identified based on their autofluorescence characteristics. Fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with PCA can be used to detect and classify oral bacteria.
Fan‐shaped scanning approach for miniaturized photoacoustic tomography
Authors: Yang Hao , Shan Tianqi , Yang Lily , Jiang Huabei
Published: October 2019

We describe a novel scanning approach for miniaturized photoacoustic tomography (PAT), based on fan‐shaped scanning of a single transducer at one or two discrete positions. This approach is tested and evaluated using several phantom and animal experiments. The results obtained show that this new scanning approach provides high image quality in the configuration of miniaturized handheld or endoscopic PAT with improved effective field of view and penetration depth.
Three‐dimensional cryogel matrix for spheroid formation and anti‐cancer drug screening
Authors: Singh Archana , Tayalia Prakriti
Published: October 2019

Spheroid‐based systems have been developed as alternatives to two‐dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures for understanding 3D cell behavior and conducting in vitro drug screening tests. However, spheroids are easily disrupted while handling and do not mimic the presence of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. To address that, we have developed a cost‐effective, polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA), and gelatin methacryloyl (GELMA) based semi‐synthetic cryogel matrix system, which can be used to grow spheroids and conduct studies while providing architectural support and mimicking in vivo ECM components. These matrices are macroporous and support formation of tumor‐like spheroids of breast tumor epithelial (MCF‐7) cells in the absence of additional growth factors otherwise required for spheroid formation. Difference in morphology of cells as a function of matrix composition and increase in size and number of spheroids as a function of time was observed. Spheroids grown in cryogel matrices showed more drug resistance than their 2D counterparts, which can partially be explained by the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) observed in spheroids. We believe that spheroids formed through these PEGDA–GELMA cryogel matrices better represent in vivo pathological conditions and can help develop cost‐effective in vitro assays for screening new pharmacological drug candidates and performing cell mechanistic studies.
Micro‐RNA‐incorporated electrospun nanofibers improve osteogenic differentiation of human‐induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Tahmasebi Aylin , Enderami Seyed E. , Saburi Ehsan , Islami Maryam , Yaslianifard Somayeh , Mahabadi Javad A. , Ardeshirylajimi Abdolreza , Soleimanifar Fatemeh , Moghadam Abbas S.
Published: October 2019

Smart scaffolds have a great role in the damaged tissue reconstruction. The aim of this study was developing a scaffold that in addition to its fiber's topography has also content of micro‐RNAs (miRNAs), which play a regulatory role during osteogenesis. In this study, we inserted two important miRNAs, including miR‐22 and miR‐126 in the electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers and after scaffold characterization, osteoinductivity of the fabricated nanofibers was investigated by evaluating of the osteogenic differentiation potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) when grown on miRNAs‐incorporated PCL nanofibers (PCL‐miR) and empty PCL. MiRNAs incorporation had no effect on the fibers size and morphology, cell attachment, and protein adsorption, although viability and proliferation rate of the human iPSCs were increased after a week in PCL‐miR compared to the empty PCL. The results obtained from alkaline phosphatase activity, calcium content, bone‐related genes, and proteins expression assays demonstrated that the highest osteogenic markers were observed in iPSCs grown on the PCL‐miR compared to the cells cultured on PCL and culture plate. According to the results, miR‐incorporated PCL nanofibers could be considered as a promising potential tissue‐engineered construct for the treatment of patients with bone lesions and defects.
Developmental antecedents of adolescent optimism in rural midwestern U.S. Latinx youth
Authors: Taylor Zoe E. , Kittrell Nicolette , Nair Nayantara , Evich Carly D. , Jones Blake L.
Published: October 2019

Aims

Decades of scientific research have found optimism to have wide‐ranging effects on individuals' health and well‐being. Researchers have largely examined optimism in adults, but have begun addressing the benefits of optimism in adolescents. Challenges and stressors in adolescence can threaten youths' subjective well‐being; therefore, identifying factors that contribute to the growth of optimism could have important health implications. However, researchers have more often examined the effect of optimism on youth outcomes rather than factors that might positively or negatively contribute to the development of optimism.

Methods

We assessed how salient developmental tasks (resilience, ethnic pride, and school attachment), family stress, and depressive problems individually contribute to Latinx youths' optimism at two time points (N = 123, 58.8% female, M age = 11.54 years).

Results

We found support for associations between both resilience and school attachment and optimism, but findings were weaker across time and with stressors included in the model. Depressive problems also appeared to weaken optimism across time.

Conclusion

Given the established links between optimism and health, it will be important for researchers to continue to identify factors that contribute to the development of youth optimism, and assess whether they could be used in interventions to foster optimism.
Association of polymorphisms in LOC105377871 and CASC16 with breast cancer in the northwest Chinese Han population
Authors: Sun Yao , Chen Peng , Wu Jiamin , Xiong Zichao , Liu Yuanwei , Liu Jianfeng , Li Haiyue , Li Bin , Jin Tianbo
Published: October 2019

Background

Breast cancer represents the cancer with the highest incidence and mortality among women in the world, and its pathogenesis is complex. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are one of the factors that influence the risk of breast cancer. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of LOC105377871 and CASC16 polymorphisms on the risk of breast cancer in the northwest Chinese Han population.

Methods

We selected 503 breast cancer patients and 503 healthy controls for the present study. Genotyping was performed using the Agena MassARRAY system (Agenea Bioscience, San Diego, CA, USA) and we evaluated the association between SNPs (rs17530068 and rs4784227) and the risk of breast cancer in four genetic models. Unconditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

It was found that the rs17530068 increased the breast cancer risk in log‐additive model (p = 0.047, OR = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.00–1.50). After stratification, the “T” allele of rs4784227 increased the risk of lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients (allele: p = 0.025, OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.05–2.17; codominant model: p = 0.008, OR = 1.99, 95% CI = 1.20–3.31; dominant model: p = 0.008, OR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.19–3.16; log‐additive model: p = 0.023, OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.06–2.19).

Conclusions

The results of the present study show that, in the northwest Chinese Han population, SNP rs17530068 (LOC105377871) increases the risk of breast cancer and SNP rs4784227 (CASC16) promotes lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients.
New expressions for order polynomials and chromatic polynomials
Authors: Dong Fengming
Published: October 2019

Let be a simple graph with and be its chromatic polynomial. For an ordering of elements of , let be the number of integers , where , with either or . Let be the set of subsets of , where , which induces a subgraph of with as its only edge. We show that if and only if , where the sum runs over all orderings of . To prove this result, we establish an analogous result on order polynomials of posets and apply Stanley's work on the relation between chromatic polynomials and order polynomials.
Daily and event‐driven pre‐exposure prophylaxis for men who have sex with men in Belgium: results of a prospective cohort measuring adherence, sexual behaviour and STI incidence
Authors: Vuylsteke Bea , Reyniers Thijs , De Baetselier Irith , Nöstlinger Christiana , Crucitti Tania , Buyze Jozefien , Kenyon Chris , Wouters Kristien , Laga Marie
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Pre‐Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective in reducing the risk for HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) and may have an important impact in slowing down the HIV epidemic. Concerns remain however about low adherence, increased risk behaviour and reduced condom use when using PrEP. The aim of this study was to assess these factors prospectively among MSM using daily and event‐driven PrEP in Belgium.

Methods

An open‐label prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2017 to May 2018 at the Institute of Tropical Medicine, in Antwerp, Belgium. At enrolment, MSM at high risk for HIV chose between daily or event‐driven PrEP. They were allowed to switch regimens or stop taking PrEP at each of their tri‐monthly visits. Data were collected on an electronic case report form, web‐based diary and self‐administered questionnaire. Screening for HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) was also performed.

Results

Two hundred MSM were followed up for a total duration of 318 person‐years. At month 18, 75.4% of the participants were on daily and 24.6% were on event‐driven PrEP. The mean proportion of covered sex acts by PrEP for the complete follow‐up period was 91.5% for all participants, 96.5% for daily and 67.0% for event‐driven PrEP use. The number of casual and anonymous sex partners was significantly higher for daily users, as compared with event‐driven users, but did not change over time. In contrast, the mean proportion of condomless receptive anal intercourse with casual and anonymous partners increased significantly during follow‐up, for both daily and event‐driven use (p < 0.0001 for all 4 trends). No new HIV infection was diagnosed during follow‐up. The incidence of bacterial STIs was 75.4 per 100 person‐years (95% CI 63.8 to 89.1). We did not detect a significant change in N. gonorrhoeae/C. trachomatis incidence over time. The incidence of hepatitis C was 2.9 per 100 person‐years.

Conclusions

PrEP is an effective and well adopted HIV prevention tool for MSM in Belgium. Participants adapted daily and event‐driven regimens to their own needs and were able to adapt their PrEP adherence to risk exposure.
Pattern recognition analysis of dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC)‐MRI curves automatically segments tissue areas with intact blood–brain barrier in a rat stroke model: A feasibility and comparison study
Authors: Jin Seokha , Han SoHyun , Stoyanova Radka , Ackerstaff Ellen , Cho HyungJoon
Published: October 2019

Background

The manual segmentation of intact blood–brain barrier (BBB) regions in the stroke brain is cumbersome, due to the coexistence of infarction, large blood vessels, ventricles, and intact BBB regions, specifically in areas with weak signal enhancement following contrast agent injection.

Hypothesis

That from dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC)‐MRI alone, without user intervention, regions of weak BBB damage can be segmented based on the leakage‐related parameter K
2 and the extent of intact BBB regions, needed to estimate K
2 values, determined.

Study Type

Feasibility.

Animal Model

Ten female Sprague–Dawley rats (SD, 200–250g) underwent 1‐hour middle carotid artery occlusion (MCAO) and 1‐day reperfusion. Two SD rats underwent 1‐hour MCAO with 3‐day and 5‐day reperfusion.

Field Strength/Sequence

7T; ADC and T1 maps using diffusion‐weighted echo planar imaging (EPI) and relaxation enhancement (RARE) with variable repetition time (TR), respectively. dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI using FLASH. DSC‐MRI using gradient‐echo EPI.

Assessment

Constrained nonnegative matrix factorization (cNMF) was applied to the dynamic ‐curves of DSC‐MRI (<4 min) in a BBB‐disrupted rat model. Areas of voxels with intact BBB, classified by automated cNMF analyses, were then used in estimating K
1 and K
2 values, and compared with corresponding values from manually‐derived areas.

Statistical Tests

Mean ± standard deviation of ΔT1‐differences between ischemic and healthy areas were displayed with unpaired Student's t‐tests. Scatterplots were displayed with slopes and intercepts and Pearson's r values were evaluated between K
2 maps obtained with automatic (cNMF)‐ and manually‐derived regions of interest (ROIs) of the intact BBB region.

Results

Mildly BBB‐damaged areas (indistinguishable from DCE‐MRI (10 min) parameters) were automatically segmented. Areas of voxels with intact BBB, classified by automated cNMF, matched closely the corresponding, manually‐derived areas when respective areas were used in estimating K
2 maps (Pearson's r = 0.97, 12 slices).

Data Conclusion

Automatic segmentation of short DSC‐MRI data alone successfully identified areas with intact and compromised BBB in the stroke brain and compared favorably with manual segmentation.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1369–1381.
Detection of small molecule concentration gradients in ocular tissues and humours
Authors: Boughton Berin A. , Thomas Oliver R.B. , Demarais Nicholas J. , Trede Dennis , Swearer Stephen E. , Grey Angus C.
Published: October 2019

The eye is an elegant organ consisting of a number of tissues and fluids with specialised functions that together allow it to effectively transmit and transduce light input to the brain for visual perception. One key determinant of this integrated function is the spatial relationship of ocular tissues. Biomolecular distributions within the main ocular tissues cornea, lens, and retina have been studied extensively in isolation, yet the potential for metabolic communication between ocular tissues via the ocular humours has been difficult to visualise. To address this limitation, the current study presents a method to map spatial distributions of metabolites and small molecules in whole eyes, including ocular humours. Using a tape‐transfer system and freeze‐drying, the spatial distribution of ocular small molecules was investigated in mouse, rat, fish (black bream), and rabbit eyes using negative ion mode MALDI imaging mass spectrometry. Full‐scan imaging was used for discovery experiments, while MS/MS imaging for identification and localisation was also demonstrated. In all eyes, metabolites such as glutathione and phospholipids were localised in the main ocular tissues. In addition, in rodent eyes, major metabolites were distributed relatively uniformly in ocular humours. In contrast, both uniform and spatially defined ocular metabolite distributions were observed in the black bream eye. Tissue and ocular humour distributions were reproducible, as demonstrated by the three‐dimensional analysis of a mouse eye, and able to be captured with high spatial resolution analysis. The presented method could be used to further investigate the role of inter‐tissue metabolism in ocular health, and to support the development of therapeutics to treat major ocular diseases.
Pharmacokinetics of 13 active components in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion after intravenous injection of Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae‐Lignum dalbergiae odoriferae prescription
Authors: Shi Baimei , Li Qiannan , Feng Ying , Dai Xufen , Zhao Rui , Zhao Ye , Jia Pu , Wang Shixiang , Yu Jie , Liao Sha , Li Yi‐fei , Zheng Xiaohui
Published: October 2019

As a representative formulation of Radix Salviae miltiorrhizae (Danshen)‐Lignum Dalbergiae odoriferae (Jiangxiang), Xiangdan injection is widely prescribed for cardio‐ and cerebrovascular diseases in practice. This necessitates a pharmacokinetic investigation of this formulation to make it safer and more broadly applicable. We developed and validated a sensitive, selective, and reliable high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method for the simultaneous determination of 11 phenolic compounds including danshensu plus two diterpenoid quinones like cryptotanshinone and tanshinone IIA in rat. We applied this method for the pharmacokinetic studies of the 13 compounds in a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion after intravenous injection of Xiangdan injection or Danshen injection. In sham‐operated rats, the animals taking Xiangdan injection exhibited significant growth of the area under the curve for danshensu, protocatechuic aldehyde, and tanshinone IIA compared with the changes seen in the data of those administrated with Danshen injection. Such a pattern was also observed in middle cerebral artery occlusion rats, whereas increased the area under the curve values were observed for danshensu, protocatechuic aldehyde, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, and tanshinone IIA. These results demonstrated that synergistic interactions occurred between the components of Danshen and the active compounds of Jiangxiang both in sham‐operated and middle cerebral artery occlusion rats, increasing the bioavailability of Danshen. The results presented herein can be used to determine a reference dose for the clinical application of Xiangdan injection, and to elucidate the synergistic mechanism of Danshen and Jiangxiang.
Microvascular free tissue transfer and cochlear implants: A case series and literature review
Authors: Lindquist Nathan R. , Vinh Daniel B. , Appelbaum Eric N. , Vrabec Jeffrey T. , Huang Andrew T.
Published: October 2019

Objective

The use of microvascular free tissue transfer (MVFTT) for defects of the scalp and lateral temporal bone in patients with cochlear implants (CI) is uncommon. Herein, we report our experience with the utility, indications, and outcomes for MVFTT in patients with cochlear implants.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients at our institution from September 2016 to December 2017 identified subjects with coexistent cochlear implant and ipsilateral MVFTT of the lateral temporal bone or scalp. Information including demographics, indication for MVFTT, timing of CI and MVFTT, donor site, and previous radiation to the head and neck was collected. To assess the current literature on MVFTT in CI patients, a MEDLINE search was performed using key search terms.

Results

Two patients with cochlear implants and MVFTT of the ipsilateral temporal bone or scalp were identified. One patient underwent MVFTT for advanced device extrusion with stable audiometric parameters rather than locoregional reconstruction or device explantation. The second patient had primary cochlear implantation at oncologic lateral temporal bone resection (LTBR) and MVFTT for locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma and concurrent profound sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). A literature review identifies MVFTT as an option for advanced device extrusion, treatment of osteoradionecrosis, and reconstruction after primary oncologic surgery.

Conclusion

MVFTT is an important reconstructive tool for patients with functional, exposed cochlear implants. Cochlear implantation for severe to profound SNHL should be considered at the time of primary oncologic surgery and MVFTT of the lateral temporal bone or scalp.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 130:1552–1557, 2020
Social Determinants of Health and Oral Cavity Cancer Treatment and Survival: A Competing Risk Analysis
Authors: Agarwal Pratima , Agrawal Ravi R. , Jones Eric A. , Devaiah Anand K.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Competing risk analysis is a powerful assessment for cancer risk factors and covariates. This method can better elucidate insurance status and other social determinants of health covariates in oral cavity cancer treatment, survival, and disparities.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Methods

Data regarding patient characteristics, clinical stage at diagnosis, treatment, and survival data for 20,271 patients diagnosed with oral cavity cancer was extracted from the SEER 18 Regs Research Data including Hurricane Katrina Impacted Louisiana Cases from 1973 to 2014. All statistical analyses were performed using SAS 9.5 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). The Fine‐Gray method for assessing impact, risk, and covariates was employed.

Results

Medicaid patients presented with later stage disease, larger tumor size, more distant metastases, and more lymph node involvement at diagnosis compared to insured patients. Medicaid patients were less likely to receive cancer‐directed surgery. Medicaid status was also associated with worse cancer‐specific survival (subhazard ratios 1.87, 95% confidence interval 1.72–2.04, P < .0001) after adjustment for all covariates.

Conclusion

This is the first study examining specifically how Medicaid status and social determinants of health covariates impact oral cavity cancer treatment and outcomes and is the first using methods validated for complex covariates. Patients with Medicaid present with more extensive oral cavity disease burden are less likely to receive definitive therapy and have significantly worse overall survival than those with other forms of insurance. This better identifies disparities and the need for improving health literacy, specifically for the at‐risk Medicaid population, and can guide clinicians.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:2160–2165, 2020
Negative effects of urbanization on agricultural soil easily oxidizable organic carbon down the profile of the Chengdu Plain, China
Authors: Luo Youlin , Li Qiquan , Wang Changquan , Li Bing , Stomph Tjeerd‐Jan , Yang Juan , Tao Qi , Yuan Shu , Tang Xiaoyan , Ge Jinru , Yu Xuelian , Peng Yueyue , Xu Qiang , Zheng Gangxun
Published: October 2019

Soil easily oxidizable organic carbon (EOC) is directly related to CO2 density; dynamics in subsurface EOC have been observed globally in relation to rapid urbanization. However, in the context of rapid urbanization, the factors related to EOC and the response of the EOC pool to urbanization down the profile remain elusive. The aim of the current paper is to investigate possible changes in the distribution of EOC over the soil profile and the impact of land use, socioeconomic, and natural factors on these. The study used samples from 182 soil profiles (0–100 cm) taken in the peri‐urban areas of the megacity Chengdu (a typical megacity with rapid urbanization). Main drivers of changes in soil EOC were analyzed by using spatial and regression analyses. Closer to the centre of the city, soil EOC levels were lower and land‐use factors and socioeconomic factors contributed more to explaining variation in EOC levels in the 0–40‐cm layer, whereas natural factors were most important at larger distance from the city. The effect of land‐use factors and socioeconomic factors on EOC reached down to 60‐cm depths. Moreover, an estimated 20% loss of EOC stock was observed close to the city in comparison with the surroundings, suggesting that the rapid process of urbanization was accompanied by a loss of EOC stock down the profile to depths of 60 cm, and the negative effects on EOC stock became more intensive as the distance to the city decreased.
Metal status in soils within a developing education park: Potential risk of land development
Authors: Teng Yong , Zhou Qixing
Published: October 2019

Many countries have developed university/college towns with specific characteristics (temporal, spatial, structural, and functional aspects). During the land development, there were obvious changes in soil metal levels and distribution patterns attributed to anthropogenic activities, thus having induced comparable results in university/college towns due to similar anthropogenic activities. Until now, specific studies on the metal status in university/college towns, especially the variation inside and outside of a campus were rarely involved. Herin we report on 109 soil samples around a new campus within a developing education park, in which the levels, spatial distributions, and possible sources of (alkali, alkaline‐earth, transition, and main group) metals and metalloids (Cd, Cr, As, Pb, Zn, Cu, Mn, Ba, Ni, Ti, Be, Bi, Sb, Sn, Co, V, and Zr) were systematically investigated. The Nemerow pollution indexes, spatial analysis, principal components analysis, and cluster analysis were calculated and analyzed. The results showed that the level of most metals within the campus with different functional areas (college, activity, and greening areas) was 1–1.3‐times as much as that outside in four directions and had greater variations. Moreover, the level of most metals was 1–1.5‐times as much as their background value and they distributed in the areas under specific developments and might mainly be attributed to anthropogenic sources. These findings provide the knowledge about effects of land development and anthropogenic activities on soil metal status that could be used by university/college towns in the similar context around the world.
Frailty Is Associated With Increased Rates of Acute Cellular Rejection Within 3 Months After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Fozouni Laila , Mohamad Yara , Lebsack Adrienne , Freise Chris , Stock Peter , Lai Jennifer C.
Published: October 2019

Frailty, a state of decreased physiological reserve, has been associated with dysregulation of the immune system. We hypothesized that frailty is associated with differential rates of acute cellular rejection (ACR) in liver transplantation (LT) recipients. Our study included LT recipients from 2014 to 2016 who had a pre‐LT frailty assessment using the liver frailty index (LFI). Frailty was defined as an LFI ≥4.5. ACR at 3 months was ascertained from pathology reports, and immunosuppression regimens were collected from chart review. There were 241 LT recipients who were included: 46 (19%) were classified as frail before LT. Median tacrolimus trough levels, mycophenolate doses, and corticosteroid doses at discharge and 3 months were similar between frail and nonfrail patients. Within 3 months after LT, 7 (15%) frail patients versus 10 (5%) nonfrail patients experienced ACR (P = 0.02). In the univariate analysis, frailty was associated with a higher odds of ACR at 3 months (OR, 3.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.2‐9.3; P = 0.02). Bivariate analyses were conducted with covariates that were associated with ACR in the univariate analysis or that were previously associated with either frailty (age and female sex) or ACR (Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score and ascites), as well as relevant immunosuppression variables. In the bivariate analyses, frailty remained significantly associated with ACR at 3 months with an odds ratio relatively similar to the unadjusted value. In conclusion, frailty is associated with an increased rate of ACR within 3 months, despite similar immunosuppression regimens, suggesting that frailty should be considered in immediate post‐LT management.
DYT28 Responsive to Pallidal Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Cao Ziqiang , Yao Hongxin , Bao Xinhua , Wen Yongxin , Liu Baofu , Wang Shulei , Yang Haibo
Published: October 2019

View Supplementary Video 1
Gender Differences in Functional Movement Disorders
Authors: Baizabal‐Carvallo José Fidel , Jankovic Joseph
Published: October 2019

Background

Functional neurological disorders are generally more common in females than males, but the reason for this gender difference is not well understood.

Objectives

In this study, we aim to compare the clinical and demographic features of functional movement disorders (FMDs) between males and females.

Methods

We examined clinical data and video‐recordings of patients with FMDs evaluated at the Baylor College of Medicine Movement Disorders Clinic.

Results

Of the 196 patients with FMDs, males represented only 30% (n = 59) of the entire cohort. Men had an older age at onset: 40.5 versus 34.1 years (P = 0.026) and an older age at evaluation: 43.8 versus 38.1 years (P = 0.041) compared to women. Functional dystonia was more frequently observed in women: 47.5 versus 20.3% (P < 0.001), but there was a trend for higher frequency of functional gait disorder in men: 44 versus 30% (P = 0.056). Females were particularly over‐represented (73.7%) in children and adolescents; but the genders were equally represented in patients aged ≥50 years.

Conclusions

Female patients are over‐represented in FMDs, except in individuals aged ≥50 years. Compared to female patients, males with FMDs present later in life and are less likely to have functional dystonia.
Parkinsonism, Intellectual Disability, and Catatonia in a Young Male With MECP2 Variant
Authors: Pollini Luca , Galosi Serena , Nardecchia Francesca , Musacchia Francesco , Castello Raffaele , Nigro Vincenzo , Leuzzi Vincenzo
Published: October 2019

View Supplementary Video 1
Association of MTHFR C677T polymorphism and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) susceptibility
Authors: Meng Yanzi , Liu Xiaoling , Ma Kai , Zhang Lili , Lu Mao , Zhao Minsu , Guan Min‐Xin , Qin Guijun
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is essential in mediating folate metabolism, and thus plays an important role in diabetes and diabetic complications. MTHFR C677T (rs1801133 C>T) polymorphism has been proposed to be linked with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) susceptibility. However, the conclusions are inconsistent. Therefore, we rechecked their linkage aiming to obtain a more reliable estimation by performing an updated meta‐analysis.

Methods

We searched electronic databases PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, and Wanfang to obtain studies updated to October 2019.

Results

After carefully screening, we finally incorporated 68 studies with 10,812 cases and 8,745 controls. The genotype frequency of C677T polymorphism was analyzed pooled to generate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Pooled results presented that MTHFR C677T polymorphism was significantly associated with T2DM under homozygous (OR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.39–1.94), heterozygous (OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.20–1.59), recessive (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.23–1.61), dominant (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.27–1.70), and allele (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.23–1.52) genetic models. Stratified analysis demonstrated that C677T genotype was associated with T2DM in Asian populations, but not Caucasian and African populations.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that MTHFR C677T polymorphism confers to T2DM, especially in Asian populations. Much more large‐scale case–control studies are needed to strengthen such conclusion in the future.
Resveratrol Attenuates Pressure Overload‐Induced Cardiac Fibrosis and Diastolic Dysfunction via PTEN/AKT/Smad2/3 and NF‐κB Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zou Lei‐Xin , Chen Chen , Yan Xiao , Lin Qiu‐Yue , Fang Jiao , Li Pang‐Bo , Han Xiao , Wang Qing‐Shan , Guo Shu‐Bin , Li Hui‐Hua , Zhang Yun‐Long
Published: October 2019

Scope

Cardiac fibrosis is a key feature of cardiac remodeling. Recently, a protective role for resveratrol (RES) in pressure‐overload‐induced cardiac hypertrophy and contractile dysfunction has been demonstrated. However, the effect of RES on cardiac fibrosis and diastolic function in this model remains unclear.

Methods and results

Cardiac remodeling is induced in mice by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) for 2–4 weeks. RES is administered at dose of 5 or 50 mg kg–1 d–1 for 2 weeks. It is found that RES administration at 50 mg kg–1 d–1 significantly attenuates TAC‐induced adverse cardiac systolic and diastolic function, fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress via inhibiting PTEN degradation and the downstream mediators. However, RES at 5 mg kg–1 d–1 has no significant effects. RES at 50 mg kg–1 d–1 also ameliorates pre‐established adverse cardiac function and remodeling induced by TAC. Treatment with PTEN inhibitor VO‐OHpic (10 mg kg–1 d–1) for 2 weeks abolishes RES‐mediated protective effects. Additionally, the effect of RES (100 µm) on inhibition of Ang II‐induced fibroblast proliferation and activation in vitro is verified.

Conclusions

The findings provide new evidence that RES plays a critical role in the progression of cardiac fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction, and suggest that RES may be a promising therapeutic agent for cardiac fibrosis.
Cherenkov imaging for total skin electron therapy (TSET)
Authors: Xie Yunhe , Petroccia Heather , Maity Amit , Miao Tianshun , Zhu Yihua , Bruza Petr , Pogue Brian W. , Plastaras John P. , Dong Lei , Zhu Timothy C.
Published: October 2019

Background

Total skin electron therapy (TSET) utilizes high‐energy electrons to treat malignancies on the entire body surface. The otherwise invisible radiation beam can be observed via the optical Cherenkov photons emitted from interactions between the high‐energy electron beam and tissue.

Methods and materials

With a time‐gated intensified camera system, the Cherenkov emission can be used to evaluate the dose uniformity on the surface of the patient in real time. Fifteen patients undergoing TSET in various conditions (whole body and half body) were imaged and analyzed. Each patient was monitored during TSET via in vivo detectors (IVD) in nine locations. For accurate Cherenkov imaging, a comparison between IVD and Cherenkov profiles was conducted using a polyvinyl chloride board to establish the perspective corrections.

Results and discussion

With proper corrections developed in this study including the perspective and inverse square corrections, the Cherenkov imaging provided two‐dimensional maps proportional to dose and projected on patient skin. The results of ratio between chest and umbilicus points were in good agreement with in vivo point dose measurements, with a standard deviation of 2.4% compared to OSLD measurements.

Conclusions

Cherenkov imaging is a viable tool for validating patient‐specific dose distributions during TSET.
A fast and scalable method for quality assurance of deformable image registration on lung CT scans using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Galib Shaikat M. , Lee Hyoung K. , Guy Christopher L. , Riblett Matthew J. , Hugo Geoffrey D.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a method to automatically identify and quantify deformable image registration (DIR) errors between lung computed tomography (CT) scans for quality assurance (QA) purposes.

Methods

We propose a deep learning method to flag registration errors. The method involves preparation of a dataset for machine learning model training and testing, design of a three‐dimensional (3D) convolutional neural network architecture that classifies registrations into good or poor classes, and evaluation of a metric called registration error index (REI) which provides a quantitative measure of registration error.

Results

Our study shows that, despite having limited number of training images available (10 CT scan pairs for training and 17 CT scan pairs for testing), the method achieves 0.882 AUC‐ROC on the test dataset. Furthermore, the combined standard uncertainty of the estimated REI by our model lies within ± 0.11 (± 11% of true REI value), with a confidence level of approximately 68%.

Conclusions

We have developed and evaluated our method using original clinical registrations without generating any synthetic/simulated data. Moreover, test data were acquired from a different environment than that of training data, so that the method was validated robustly. The results of this study showed that our algorithm performs reasonably well in challenging scenarios.