bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigating disruptions, and scalability of radiation oncology physics work during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Darafsheh Arash , Lavvafi Hossein , Taleei Reza , Khan Rao
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The COVID‐19 pandemic has led to disorder in work and livelihood of a majority of the modern world. In this work, we review its major impacts on procedures and workflow of clinical physics tasks, and suggest alternate pathways to avoid major disruption or discontinuity of physics tasks in the context of small, medium, and large radiation oncology clinics. We also evaluate scalability of medical physics under the stress of “social distancing”.

Methods

Three models of facilities characterized by the number of clinical physicists, daily patient throughput, and equipment were identified for this purpose. For identical objectives of continuity of clinical operations, with constraints such as social distancing and unavailability of staff due to system strain, however with the possibility of remote operations, the performance of these models was investigated. General clinical tasks requiring on‐site personnel presence or otherwise were evaluated to determine the scalability of the three models at this point in the course of disease spread within their surroundings.

Results

The clinical physics tasks within three models could be divided into two categories. The former, which requires individual presence, include safety‐sensitive radiation delivery, high dose per fraction treatments, brachytherapy procedures, fulfilling state and nuclear regulatory commission's requirements, etc. The latter, which can be handled through remote means, include dose planning, physics plan review and supervision of quality assurance, general troubleshooting, etc.

Conclusion

At the current level of disease in the United States, all three models have sustained major system stress in continuing reduced operation. However, the small clinic model may not perform if either the current level of infections is maintained for long or staff becomes unavailable due to health issues. With abundance, and diversity of innovative resources, medium and large clinic models can sustain further for physics‐related radiotherapy services.
Mechanical Properties of Powder Metallurgy Nickel‐Based Superalloy Composite Reinforced by Low Content Graphene Nanosheets
Authors: Gao Yuxi , Zou Jinwen , Wang Xiaofeng , Yang Jie , Li Zhuo , Li Jia , Cheng Xu , Tang Haibo
Published: May 2020

This study focuses on the effects of adding low content of graphene nanosheets (GNSs) (≤0.3 wt%) on microstructure and tensile property of GNSs‐reinforced nickel‐based superalloy (FGH96). The GNSs‐reinforced FGH96 composite is fabricated by wet‐chemical mixing and hot isostatic pressing. Microstructures and mechanical properties of the composites are studied by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscope, and static tensile tests. Results indicate that, when the addition amount of GNSs is less than 0.1 wt%, the tensile properties of the GNSs‐reinforced FGH96 composites improve without losing their plasticity. The largest reduction of area (R/A) ratio of the composite is observed when 0.005 wt% GNSs is added, which is 81.4% higher than the unreinforced alloy. As the cross‐sectional area of tensile sample reduces during necking, the GNSs/unit area increases, leading to the delayed fracture with an increase in R/A ratio and true fracture strength. Theoretical analysis suggests that the strengthening mechanism of GNSs–FGH96 belongs to the modified shear lag model. The interfacial shear stress caused by the presence of GNSs is the main reason for the increase in yield strength.
Tumor‐Targeted Inhibition of Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 Improves T‐Cell Immunotherapy of Solid Tumors
Authors: Huang Tongyi , Feng Qiang , Wang Zhaohui , Li Wei , Sun Zhichen , Wilhelm Jonathan , Huang Gang , Vo Tram , Sumer Baran D. , Gao Jinming
Published: May 2020

Export of lactic acid from glycolytic cancer cells to the extracellular tumor milieu has been reported to enhance tumor growth and suppress antitumor immunity. In this study, a pH‐activatable nanodrug is reported for tumor‐targeted inhibition of monocarboxylate transporter‐1 (MCT1) that reverses lactic acid‐induced tumor immunosuppression. The nanodrug is composed of an MCT1 inhibitor (AZD3965) loaded inside the ultra‐pH‐sensitive nanoparticles (AZD‐UPS NPs). AZD‐UPS NP is produced by a microfluidics method with improved drug loading efficiency and optimal nanoparticle size over sonication methods. The nanodrug remains as intact micelles at pH 7.4 but rapidly disassembles and releases payload upon exposure to acidic pH. When combined with anti‐PD‐1 therapy, AZD‐UPS NP leads to potent tumor growth inhibition and increases survival in two tumor models over oral administration of AZD3965 at dramatically reduced dose (>200‐fold). Safety evaluations demonstrate reduced drug distribution in heart and liver tissues with decrease in toxic biomarkers such as cardiac troponin by the nanodrug. Increased T‐cell infiltration and reduced exhaustive PD1+Tim3+ T cells are found in tumors. These data illustrate that tumor‐targeted inhibition of MCT1 can reverse the immune suppressive microenvironment of solid tumors for increased safety and antitumor efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
Tuning the Kinetics of Zinc‐Ion Insertion/Extraction in V2O5 by In Situ Polyaniline Intercalation Enables Improved Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Storage Performance
Authors: Liu Sucheng , Zhu He , Zhang Binghao , Li Gen , Zhu Hekang , Ren Yang , Geng Hongbo , Yang Yang , Liu Qi , Li Cheng Chao
Published: May 2020

Rechargeable zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are emerging as a promising alternative for Li‐ion batteries. However, the developed cathodes suffer from sluggish Zn2+ diffusion kinetics, leading to poor rate capability and inadequate cycle life. Herein, an in situ polyaniline (PANI) intercalation strategy is developed to facilitate the Zn2+ (de)intercalation kinetics in V2O5. In this way, a remarkably enlarged interlayer distance (13.90 Å) can be constructed alternatively between the VO layers, offering expediting channels for facile Zn2+ diffusion. Importantly, the electrostatic interactions between the Zn2+ and the host O2−, which is another key factor in hindering the Zn2+ diffusion kinetics, can be effectively blocked by the unique π‐conjugated structure of PANI. As a result, the PANI‐intercalated V2O5 exhibits a stable and highly reversible electrochemical reaction during repetitive Zn2+ insertion and extraction, as demonstrated by in situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and Raman studies. Further first‐principles calculations clearly reveal a remarkably lowered binding energy between Zn2+ and host O2−, which explains the favorable kinetics in PANI‐intercalated V2O5. Benefitting from the above, the overall electrochemical performance of PANI‐intercalated V2O5 electrode is remarkable improved, exhibiting excellent high rate capability of 197.1 mAh g−1 at current density of 20 A g−1 with capacity retention of 97.6% over 2000 cycles.
Fabrication Techniques for Curved Electronics on Arbitrary Surfaces
Authors: Wu Hao , Tian Yu , Luo Haibo , Zhu Hui , Duan Yongqing , Huang YongAn
Published: May 2020

Curved electronics, which are better coordinated and blended with the natural world due to the characteristics of large contact area, high space adaptability, etc., have been widely used in a quantity of areas ranging from conformal curved antennas and sensors in detection and measurement, to artificial smart skin of aerospace. Recent developments in curved electronics have made an increasing progress to the historic drawbacks of conventional planar electronics, however significant challenges still exist. Here, the main kinds of conformal fabrication technologies, including transfer printing, assembly techniques, curved lithography, conformal inkjet printing, 3D printing, and laser direct writing, are reviewed to realize manufacturing deformable/undeformable electronics on curved or arbitrary surfaces. The processes and features of each technology are comprehensively summarized together with their progress and potential values. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for fabricating conformal electronics on arbitrary surfaces are also discussed.
High‐Performance, Mechanically and Thermally Compliant Silica‐Based Solid Polymer Electrolyte for Triboelectric Nanogenerators Application
Authors: Uzabakiriho Pierre Claver , Haider Zeeshan , Emmanuel Kamana , Ahmad Rafi u Shan , Haleem Abdul , Farooq Umar , Uwisengeyimana Jean De Dieux , Mbogba Momoh Karmah , Fareed Azam , Memon Kashan , Khan Irfan , Hu Peng , Zhao Gang
Published: May 2020

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are attractive research since their discovery, and various strategies are developed in order to improve their output performance. Recently, the ionic gel has been attracted to the TENGs field, but it typically has limited power output and durability. Here, a strategy of adding silica‐supported ionic liquid to the polymer (solid polymer electrolyte) as a triboelectric material is reported. This method of tribo‐material is created using a straightforward sol–gel process, resulting in a versatile, stable, durable, and high power output performance. When coupled with spin‐coated polydimethylsiloxane as negative material provides an output voltage of 248 V, a current density of 61.5 mA m−2 and power density of 5.2 W m−2 which is sufficient to light up 160 white light‐emitting diodes. Comparatively, pristine poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) film merely harvests 125 V, 26.5 mA m−2, and power of ≈2.48 W m−2. The high output is attributed to the silica precursor in the membrane, which makes more –OH groups of PVA to form long chains network with other oxygen of alkoxy groups through hydrogen bonding and also the presence of nitrogen groups of imidazolium. This work thus expands the enhancement of the positive material utilized for triboelectric nanogenerators with high possibility.
Development of Innovative Antiatherosclerotic Peptides through the Combination of Molecular Modeling and a Dual (Biochemical‐Cellular) Screening System
Authors: Benitez‐Amaro Aleyda , Pallara Chiara , Nasarre Laura , Ferreira Ruben , de Gonzalo‐Calvo David , Prades Roger , Tarragó Teresa , Llorente‐Cortés Vicenta
Published: May 2020

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Approximately 60% of patients treated with low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐lowering drug treatments, with on‐target plasma cholesterol levels, are still suffering clinical acute ischemic events. Mechanisms, such as LDL aggregation, underlie extracellular and intracellular cholesterol accumulation in the vasculature. A peptide sequence (P3) of the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 (LRP1) efficiently protects LDL from sphingomyelinase (SMase‐) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2)‐induced LDL aggregation. The aim is to design families of peptide derivatives from P3 with enhanced potency and proteolytic stability. New peptides are designed through in silico conformational sampling and ApoB‐100 molecular docking, and are tested in dual (biochemical‐cellular) screening assays. A total of 46 new peptides including linear, fragment, cyclic, and alanine scanning derivatives are generated through two consecutive optimization rounds. Structurally and functionally optimized peptides contain hotspot residues that are replaced by alanine. This strategy confers an increased capacity to form prone alpha‐helix conformations crucial for the electrostatic interaction with ApoB‐100. These new compounds are highly efficient at inhibiting LDL aggregation and human coronary vascular smooth muscle cell‐cholesteryl ester loading and should be studied in preclinical models of atherosclerosis.
Droplet impingement and wetting behavior on a chemically heterogeneous surface in the Beyond–Cassie–Baxter regime
Authors: Yi Guina , Cai Ziqi , Gao Zhengming , Jiang Zhichao , Huang Xiongbin , Derksen Jos J.
Published: May 2020

Droplet impingement and anisotropic wetting on chemically heterogeneous stripe‐patterned surfaces is simulated by means of many‐body dissipative particle dynamics. The ratio of the stripe width and initial droplet diameter, defined as β, ranges from 0.5 to 1.0 so that the wetting process is in the Beyond–Cassie–Baxter regime and is highly anisotropic. At zero Weber number (that is, without considering droplet inertia) and with superhydrophobic stripes, β is the only factor affecting the droplet perpendicular contact angle and aspect ratio. For inertial droplets, β and the Weber number are found to have an effect on the eventual droplet morphology on multi‐striped surfaces. These morphologies include elongated shape, split‐off, and “butterfly” shape. A correlation for critical split‐off conditions has been determined. An energy analysis of droplet impingement shows that the normalized surface energy of the droplet is independent of the Weber number if the droplet is elongated or butterfly‐shaped.
Assessing the host genetic background effects on type 2 diabetes and obesity development in response to mixed–oral bacteria and high‐fat diet using the collaborative cross mouse model
Authors: Karkar Luna , Abu‐Toamih Atamni Hanifa J. , Milhem Asal , Houri-Haddad Yael , Iraqi Fuad A.
Published: May 2020

Background

Host genetic background and sex, play central roles in defining the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D), obesity and infectious diseases. Our previous studies demonstrated the utilization of genetically highly diverse inbred mouse lines, namely collaborative cross (CC), for dissecting host susceptibility for the development of T2D and obesity, showing significant variations following high‐fat (42% fat) diet (HFD). Here, we aimed to assessing the host genetic background and sex effects on T2D and obesity development in response to oral‐mixed bacterial infection and HFD using the CC lines.

Materials and Methods

Study cohort consists of 97 mice from 2 CC lines (both sexes), maintained on either HFD or Standard diet (CHD) for 12 weeks. At week 5 a group of mice from each diet were infected with Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) bacteria (control groups without infection). Body weight (BW) and glucose tolerance ability were assessed at the end time point of the experiment.

Results

The CC lines varied (P < .05) at their BW gain and glucose tolerance ability (with sex effect) in response to diets and/or infection, showing opposite responses despite sharing the same environmental conditions. The combination of diet and infection enhances BW accumulation for IL1912, while restraints it for IL72. As for glucose tolerance ability, only females (both lines) were deteriorated in response to infection.

Conclusions

This study emphasizes the power of the CC mouse population for the characterization of host genetic makeup for defining the susceptibility of the individual to development of obesity and/or impaired glucose tolerance.
Permeability Measures Predict Hemorrhagic Transformation after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bivard Andrew , Kleinig Timothy , Churilov Leonid , Levi Christopher , Lin Longting , Cheng Xin , Chen Chushuang , Aviv Richard , Choi Philip M. C. , Spratt Neil J. , Butcher Kenneth , Dong Qiang , Parsons Mark
Published: May 2020

Objective

We sought to examine the diagnostic utility of existing predictors of any hemorrhagic transformation (HT) and compare them with new perfusion imaging permeability measures in ischemic stroke patients receiving alteplase only.

Methods

A pixel‐based analysis of pretreatment CT perfusion (CTP) was undertaken to define the optimal CTP permeability thresholds to predict the likelihood of HT. We then compared previously proposed predictors of HT using regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to produce an area under the curve (AUC). We compared AUCs using χ2 analysis.

Results

From 5 centers, 1,407 patients were included in this study; of these, 282 had HT. The cohort was split into a derivation cohort (1,025, 70% patients) and a validation cohort (382 patients or 30%). The extraction fraction (E) permeability map at a threshold of 30% relative to contralateral had the highest AUC at predicting any HT (derivation AUC 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.79–0.91; validation AUC 0.84, 95% CI 0.77–0.91). The AUC improved when permeability was assessed within the acute perfusion lesion for the E maps at a threshold of 30% (derivation AUC 0.91, 95% CI 0.86–0.95; validation AUC 0.89, 95% CI 0.86–0.95). Previously proposed associations with HT and parenchymal hematoma showed lower AUC values than the permeability measure.

Interpretation

In this large multicenter study, we have validated a highly accurate measure of HT prediction. This measure might be useful in clinical practice to predict hemorrhagic transformation in ischemic stroke patients before receiving alteplase alone. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:466–476
Photoinduced Olefin Diamination with Alkylamines
Authors: Govaerts Sebastian , Angelini Lucrezia , Hampton Charlotte , Malet‐Sanz Laia , Ruffoni Alessandro , Leonori Daniele
Published: May 2020

Vicinal diamines are ubiquitous materials in organic and medicinal chemistry. The direct coupling of olefins and amines would be an ideal approach to construct these motifs. However, alkene diamination remains a long‐standing challenge in organic synthesis, especially when using two different amine components. We report a general strategy for the direct and selective assembly of vicinal 1,2‐diamines using readily available olefin and amine building blocks. This mild and straightforward approach involves in situ formation and photoinduced activation of N‐chloroamines to give aminium radicals that enable efficient alkene aminochlorination. Owing to the ambiphilic nature of the β‐chloroamines produced, conversion into tetra‐alkyl aziridinium ions was possible, thus enabling diamination by regioselective ring‐opening with primary or secondary amines. This strategy streamlines the preparation of vicinal diamines from multistep sequences to a single chemical transformation.
Sequential and Timely Combination of a Cancer Nanovaccine with Immune Checkpoint Blockade Effectively Inhibits Tumor Growth and Relapse
Authors: Kim Yujin , Kang Sukmo , Shin Hocheol , Kim Taewoo , Yu Byeongjun , Kim Jinjoo , Yoo Dohyun , Jon Sangyong
Published: May 2020

We describe a small lipid nanoparticle (SLNP)‐based nanovaccine platform and a new combination treatment regimen. Tumor antigen‐displaying, CpG adjuvant‐embedded SLNPs (OVAPEP‐SLNP@CpG) were prepared from biocompatible phospholipids and a cationic cholesterol derivative. The resulting nanovaccine showed highly potent antitumor efficacy in both prophylactic and therapeutic E.G7 tumor models. However, this vaccine induced T cell exhaustion by elevating PD‐L1 expression, leading to tumor recurrence. Thus, the nanovaccine was combined with simultaneous anti‐PD‐1 antibody treatment, but the therapeutic efficacy of this regimen was comparable to that of the nanovaccine alone. Finally, mice that showed a good therapeutic response after the first cycle of immunization with the nanovaccine underwent a second cycle together with anti‐PD‐1 therapy, resulting in suppression of tumor relapse. This suggests that the antitumor efficacy of combinations of nanovaccines with immune checkpoint blockade therapy is dependent on treatment sequence and the timing of each modality.
Eine Redoxpolymer‐basierte Gasdiffusions‐H2‐Oxidationsbioanode mit hoher Stromdichte unter Verwendung von [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase aus Desulfovibrio desulfuricans integriert in einer membranfreien Biobrennstoffzelle
Authors: Szczesny Julian , Birrell James A. , Conzuelo Felipe , Lubitz Wolfgang , Ruff Adrian , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: May 2020

Die Verwendung hochaktiver, aber zeitgleich auch hochempfindlicher Katalysatoren (z. B. [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase aus Desulfovibrio desulfuricans) in Biobrennstoffzellen ist nach wie vor eine der größten Herausforderungen bei der nachhaltigen Energieumwandlung. Wir berichten über die Herstellung einer auf Gasdiffusionselektroden‐basierten H2 /O2‐Biobrennstoffzelle, die mit einer [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase/Redoxpolymer‐basierten H2‐Oxidationsbioanode mit hoher Stromdichte ausgestattet ist. Die Bioanoden zeigen Benchmark‐Stromdichten von ca. 14 mA cm−2, und die entsprechenden Brennstoffzellentests zeigen einen Benchmark für eine Polymer/Hydrogenase‐basierte Biobrennstoffzelle mit herausragenden Leistungsdichten von 5.4 mW cm−2 bei 0.7 V Zellspannung. Darüber hinaus wird die hochempfindliche [FeFe]‐Hydrogenase durch das Redoxpolymer vor Sauerstoffschäden geschützt und kann unter 5 % O2 arbeiten.
Centimeter‐Sized Single Crystal of Two‐Dimensional Halide Perovskites Incorporating Straight‐Chain Symmetric Diammonium Ion for X‐Ray Detection
Authors: Shen Yue , Liu Yucheng , Ye Haochen , Zheng Yiting , Wei Qi , Xia Yingdong , Chen Yonghua , Zhao Kui , Huang Wei , Liu Shengzhong (Frank)
Published: May 2020

Two‐dimensional (2D) AA′n−1MnX3n+1 type halide perovskites incorporating straight‐chain symmetric diammonium cations define a new type of structure, but their optoelectronic properties are largely unexplored. Reported here is the synthesis of a centimeter‐sized AA′n−1MnX3n+1 type perovskite, BDAPbI4 (BDA=NH3C4H8NH3), single crystal and its charge‐transport properties under X‐ray excitation. The crystal shows a staggered configuration of the [PbI6]4− layers, a band gap of 2.37 eV, and a low trap density of 3.1×109 cm−3. The single‐crystal X‐ray detector exhibits an excellent sensitivity of 242 μC Gyair−1 cm−2 under the 10 V bias (0.31 V μm−1), a detection limit as low as 430 nGyair s−1, ultrastable response current, a stable baseline with the lowest dark current drift of 6.06×10−9 nA cm−1 s−1 V−1, and rapid response time of τrise=7.3 ms and τfall=22.5 ms. These crystals are promising candidates for the next generation of optoelectronic devices.
Redox‐Polymer‐Based High‐Current‐Density Gas‐Diffusion H2‐Oxidation Bioanode Using [FeFe] Hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans in a Membrane‐free Biofuel Cell
Authors: Szczesny Julian , Birrell James A. , Conzuelo Felipe , Lubitz Wolfgang , Ruff Adrian , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: May 2020

The incorporation of highly active but also highly sensitive catalysts (e.g. the [FeFe] hydrogenase from Desulfovibrio desulfuricans) in biofuel cells is still one of the major challenges in sustainable energy conversion. We report the fabrication of a dual‐gas diffusion electrode H2/O2 biofuel cell equipped with a [FeFe] hydrogenase/redox polymer‐based high‐current‐density H2‐oxidation bioanode. The bioanodes show benchmark current densities of around 14 mA cm−2 and the corresponding fuel cell tests exhibit a benchmark for a hydrogenase/redox polymer‐based biofuel cell with outstanding power densities of 5.4 mW cm−2 at 0.7 V cell voltage. Furthermore, the highly sensitive [FeFe] hydrogenase is protected against oxygen damage by the redox polymer and can function under 5 % O2.
Intraarticular Adeno‐Associated Virus Serotype AAV‐PHP.S–Mediated Chemogenetic Targeting of Knee‐Innervating Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons Alleviates Inflammatory Pain in Mice
Authors: Chakrabarti Sampurna , Pattison Luke A. , Doleschall Balint , Rickman Rebecca H. , Blake Helen , Callejo Gerard , Heppenstall Paul A. , Smith Ewan St. John
Published: May 2020

Objective

Joint pain is the major clinical symptom of arthritis that affects millions of people. Controlling the excitability of knee‐innervating dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons (knee neurons) could potentially provide pain relief. We undertook this study to evaluate whether the newly engineered adeno‐associated virus (AAV) serotype, AAV‐PHP.S, can deliver functional artificial receptors to control knee neuron excitability following intraarticular knee injection.

Methods

The AAV‐PHP.S virus, packaged with dTomato fluorescent protein and either excitatory (Gq) or inhibitory (Gi) designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs), was injected into the knee joints of adult mice. Labeling of DRG neurons with AAV‐PHP.S from the knee was evaluated using immunohistochemistry. The functionality of Gq‐ and Gi‐DREADDs was evaluated using whole‐cell patch clamp electrophysiology on acutely cultured DRG neurons. Pain behavior in mice was assessed using a digging assay, dynamic weight bearing, and rotarod performance, before and after intraperitoneal administration of the DREADD activator, Compound 21.

Results

We showed that AAV‐PHP.S can deliver functional genes into ~7% of lumbar DRG neurons when injected into the knee joint in a similar manner to the well‐established retrograde tracer, fast blue. Short‐term activation of AAV‐PHP.S–delivered Gq‐DREADD increased excitability of knee neurons in vitro (P = 0.02 by unpaired t‐test), without inducing overt pain in mice when activated in vivo. By contrast, in vivo Gi‐DREADD activation alleviated digging deficits induced by Freund's complete adjuvant–mediated knee inflammation (P = 0.0002 by repeated‐measures analysis of variance [ANOVA] followed by Holm‐Sidak multiple comparisons test). A concomitant decrease in knee neuron excitability was observed in vitro (P = 0.005 by ANOVA followed by Holm‐Sidak multiple comparisons test).

Conclusion

We describe an AAV‐mediated chemogenetic approach to specifically control joint pain, which may be utilized in translational arthritic pain research.
Diagnostic accuracy of acute diverticulitis with unenhanced low-dose CT
Authors: Thorisson A , Nikberg M , Torkzad M R , Laurell H , Smedh K , Chabok A
Published: May 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of unenhanced low-dose CT (LDCT) in acute colonic diverticulitis in comparison with contrast-enhanced standard-dose CT (SDCT).

Methods

All patients with clinically suspected diverticulitis who underwent LDCT followed by SDCT between January and October 2017 were evaluated prospectively. CT examinations were assessed for signs of diverticulitis, complications and other differential diagnoses by three independent radiologists (two consultants and one fourth-year resident) using SDCT as the reference method. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated and Cohen's κ coefficient was used for agreement analyses.

Results

Of the 149 patients included (mean age 66·7 years, M : F ratio 0·4), 107 (71·8 per cent) had imaging consistent with diverticulitis on standard CT. Sensitivity and specificity values for a diverticulitis diagnosis using LDCT were 95–99 and 86–100 per cent respectively, and respective values for identification of complications were 58–73 and 78–100 per cent. The corresponding κ values among the three readers for diagnosis were 0·984, 0·934 and 0·816, whereas κ values for complications were 0·680, 0·703 and 0·354. Of the 26 patients who presented with other causes of abdominal symptoms identified on standard CT, 23 were diagnosed correctly on LDCT. Missed cases included splenic infarction (1) and segmental colitis (2).

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of LDCT was high for the presence of acute diverticulitis. However, as signs of complicated disease can be missed using the low-dose protocol, use of LDCT as a primary examination method should not preclude SDCT when complications may be suspected.
Dynamics of cerebral oxygenation during rapid ventricular pacing and its impact on outcome in transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Seppelt Philipp C. , Mas‐Peiro Silvia , De Rosa Roberta , Murray Isabell M. , Arsalan Mani , Holzer Lars , Lotz Gösta , Meybohm Patrick , Zacharowski Kai , Walther Thomas , Zeiher Andreas M. , Fichtlscherer Stephan , Vasa‐Nicotera Mariuca
Published: May 2020

Background

Cerebral O2 saturation (ScO2) reflects cerebral perfusion and can be measured noninvasively by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS).

Objectives

In this pilot study, we describe the dynamics of ScO2 during TAVI in nonventilated patients and its impact on procedural outcome.

Methods and Results

We measured ScO2 of both frontal lobes continuously by NIRS in 50 consecutive analgo‐sedated patients undergoing transfemoral TAVI (female 58%, mean age 80.8 years). Compared to baseline ScO2 dropped significantly during RVP (59.3% vs. 53.9%, p < .01). Five minutes after RVP ScO2 values normalized (post RVP 62.6% vs. 53.9% during RVP, p < .01; pre 61.6% vs. post RVP 62.6%, p = .53). Patients with an intraprocedural pathological ScO2 decline of >20% (n = 13) had higher EuroSCORE II (3.42% vs. 5.7%, p = .020) and experienced more often delirium (24% vs. 62%, p = .015) and stroke (0% vs. 23%, p < .01) after TAVI. Multivariable logistic regression revealed higher age and large ScO2 drops as independent risk factors for delirium.

Conclusions

During RVP ScO2 significantly declined compared to baseline. A ScO2 decline of >20% is associated with a higher incidence of delirium and stroke and a valid cut‐off value to screen for these complications. NIRS measurement during TAVI procedure may be an easy to implement diagnostic tool to detect patients at high risks for cerebrovascular complications and delirium.
Flipping syncope: The case of an adolescent athlete with syncopal episodes ultimately diagnosed with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia
Authors: Kramer Collin C. , Maldonado Jennifer R. , Kimball Ashley , Law Ian H.
Published: May 2020

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a channelopathy which can lead to fatal ventricular arrhythmias. The diagnosis can be challenging due to a wide variety of clinical presentations. In this case, we describe the unusual presentation and subsequent workup of a young patient who was ultimately diagnosed with CPVT.
Utility of Doppler ultrasound derived hepatic and portal venous waveforms in the management of heart failure exacerbation
Authors: Singh Shashank , Koratala Abhilash
Published: May 2020

Doppler ultrasound assessment of hepatic and portal vein waveforms aids in the management of patients with heart failure by noninvasively monitoring the efficacy of decongestive therapy. In the right clinical context, these waveforms can be used as an adjunct to physical examination and inferior vena cava ultrasound.
Novel use of fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy to diagnose cervical cancer in a low‐resource setting: A case series Morovia, Liberia
Authors: Alele David , Dahn Bernice , Camanor Sia , Ikpi Edet , Lieber Molly , Dottino Andrew , Johnson Billy , Gharoro Etedafe P. , Beddoe Ann Marie
Published: May 2020

The role of pathology in improving cancer in resource‐limited countries is essential, yet many barriers exist. FNA is a rapid, low‐cost and efficient method for diagnosing cancer, planning treatment, and building a cancer registry.
Trinexapac‐ethyl applications and lightweight rolling on ultradwarf bermudagrass putting greens
Authors: Reasor Eric H. , Brosnan James T.
Published: May 2020

Plant growth regulator (PGR) applications are a common practice in managing ultradwarf bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon(L.) Pers. ×C. transvaalensisBurtt‐Davy] putting greens. Trinexapac‐ethyl (TE) is a frequently used PGR to reduce the rapid shoot growth that could reduce ball roll distance (BRD) and increase turfgrass quality. Lightweight rolling (LWR) of putting greens is a practice implemented to sustain or increase BRD. The objective of this research was to determine effects of weekly TE applications and LWR on the BRD and turfgrass quality of an ultradwarf bermudagrass putting green. Experiments were conducted in Knoxville, TN, and Starkville, MS, on a ‘MiniVerde’ ultradwarf bermudagrass putting green. Trinexapac‐ethyl treatments included 0, 0.008, 0.024, or 0.072 lb a.i. acre−1wk−1and LWR five times per week. Ball roll distance was measured with a Pelzmeter in 2016 and a Stimpmeter in 2017. Turfgrass quality was visually assessed at both locations on a 1 to 9 scale, with ratings of ≥ 6 being acceptable. At both locations, the BRDs of plots treated with 0.024 lb TE acre−1wk−1with LWR were only 5 inch less than 0.072 lb TE acre−1wk−1without LWR, a difference that is likely to be imperceptible to golfers. In addition, TE applied at 0.024 lb a.i. acre−1wk−1consistently yielded greater turfgrass quality than 0.072 lb TE acre−1wk−1. Implementing LWR practices with TE application rates at 0.024 lb acre−1wk−1can provide similar BRD and increased turfgrass quality as TE applied at 0.072 lb acre−1wk−1without LWR.
Orthogonal Photoswitching with Norbornadiene
Authors: Drøhse Kilde Martin , Broløs Line , Mansø Mads , Mogensen Josefine , Gregers Tortzen Christian , Brøndsted Nielsen Mogens
Published: May 2020

Orthogonal photoswitching is a convenient but challenging way of controlling multiple functions in a system by selective photoisomerization of one unit before the other in any arbitrarily chosen sequence. Here, we present this concept for the norbornadiene/quadricyclane (NBD/QC) photo/thermo‐switch in the presence or absence of a coordinated metal ion. Thus, introducing two pyridyl ligands via ethyne‐1,2‐diyl bridges provides a system that by chelation of metal ions, such as PdII, has altered optical and switching properties. Mixing the PdII complex with its free ligand furnishes a four‐state system where NBD‐to‐QC photoisomerizations for complexed and uncomplexed species are controlled by the irradiation wavelength and can occur orthogonally, that is, the sequence of photoisomerizations can be swapped. Studies on AgI and PbII complexes, being less stable than the PdII complex, are also presented; these exhibit like the PdII complex significantly red‐shifted NBD absorptions.
Understanding and enhancing the direct contact membrane distillation performance by modified heat transfer correlation
Authors: Ali Emadadeen , Hadj‐Kali Mohamed , Orfi Jamel
Published: May 2020

The sensitivity of direct contact membrane distillation to feed temperatures and feed flow rate is investigated experimentally. At very low flow rates, the process becomes heat transfer limited where the thermal energy of the aqueous feed solution is lost by the conduction resistance minimizing the distillate production. At high flow rates, the film heat transfer coefficient for both liquid solutions increases, creating a larger temperature difference across the membrane boundaries. Hence, the mass fluxes increase linearly with the water flow rate. These findings are also assessed by simulating the heat and mass transfer equations that describe the membrane distillation (MD) thermo‐physical operation. It is found that the underlying physics of the MD module must faithfully capture and explain the true process behaviour. Hence, a modified correlation for the Nusselt number is developed and tested.
Combining safety approaches to bring hazards into focus: An oil sands tailings case study
Authors: Baker Kathleen E. , Macciotta Pulisci Renato , Hendry Michael T. , Lefsrud Lianne M.
Published: May 2020

At least 50 hazardous occurrences associated with tailings facilities occurred in the Canadian mining industry between 2000‐2014. Further investigation revealed a dearth of information on worker safety around tailings storage and transport facilities. Workers at oil sands tailings operations are exposed to hazardous scenarios, including loss of containment and line of fire. These are the similar scenarios that manifest in traditional process industries, with the notable differences between traditional process industries and tailings operations being the frequency of incidents, pressures, volumes, and temperatures. The presence of hazardous scenarios and lack of incident reviews illustrate the need for increased attention to be paid to worker safety at oil sand tailings operations as well as enhancements to current hazard identification tools. Process safety management tools such as bow tie diagrams can be applied to tailings operations to visually identify unwanted events (process and occupational health and safety related), potential threats, consequences, and controls used to prevent incidents from occurring. They also serve as a tool for continuous improvement and show any over‐reliance on one type of control, such as administrative controls or personal protective equipment. This research combines safety approaches using the bow tie analysis of seven hazardous operational activities in the oil sands tailings operations as a case study. The impact of behavioural safety on the controls is also analyzed. This research facilitated the sharing of tailings safety best practices among oil sands operators and regional contractors.
Red mud (aluminum industrial waste): An eco‐friendly treatment of electroplating effluent
Authors: Verma Bharti , Balomajumder Chandrajit
Published: May 2020

In this work, aluminum industrial waste, red mud (RM), was activated to verify its potential in the management of electroplating wastewater containing hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). A comparison between the adsorption capabilities of RM and activated red mud (ARM) towards Cr(VI) from aqueous solutions was made. The effects of several parameters were evaluated. The adsorbents were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), zeta potential, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The particle size was observed as 23.59 nm. The ARM demonstrated an acceptable adsorption capacity of 25.641 mg/g at a pH of 2, adsorbent dosage of 2 g/L, initial Cr(VI) concentration of 100 mg/L, at 25°C. The experimental data is in good agreement with Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The kinetic study was performed to verify that the adsorption follows pseudo‐second‐order kinetics. In addition, the ARM showed decent recyclability for adsorbing Cr(VI) as even after three adsorption cycles, and the adsorption capacity was reduced by ~30%. The results recommend ARM to be an efficient and cost‐effective adsorbent for Cr(VI) removal from industrial wastewater.
Efficient Pd‐Catalyzed C—H Oxidative Bromination of Arenes with Dimethyl Sulfoxide and Hydrobromic Acid†
Authors: Yuan Yizhi , Liang Yujie , Shi Shihui , Liang Yu‐Feng , Jiao Ning
Published: May 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

We have developed an efficient Pd‐catalyzed directed C—H bromination protocol, in which dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is employed as oxidant with hydrobromic acid aqueous solution (HBr(aq)) as bromide source. The DMSO/HBr(aq) system, which is novelly and efficiently utilized in transition‐metal catalyzed C—H activation, illustrates its practicability by the operational simplicity, inexpensive and readily available starting materials, and high bromide‐atom economy.
Driving the Future with Photocatalytic Solar Fuels
Authors: Zhang Tierui
Published: May 2020

Tierui Zhang
is a full Professor in Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the director of Key Laboratory of Photochemical Conversion and Optoelectronic Materials, CAS. He is associate editor of Science Bulletin and also serves as an editorial board member for several peer‐reviewed journals including Advanced Energy Materials, ChemPhysChem, Scientific Reports, and Solar RRL. He has published more than 200 papers in refereed SCI journals, including Nat. Commun., Chem. Soc. Rev., Adv. Mater., Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., and J. Am. Chem. Soc., with total number of citations >14000 and a h‐index of 64. He was named in the annual Highly Cited Researchers 2018/2019 List by Clarivate Analytics. He was supported by an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship, Royal Society‐Newton Advanced Fellowship, National High‐Level Talents Special Support Program, “Outstanding Young Scholars” of the National Science Fund, and so on. He is the recipient of numerous awards including 2019 “Nano Research Young Innovators Award” in NanoEnergy and Outstanding Young Scientist in Photochemistry and Photocatalysis. He was named a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC) in 2017.
Species‐specific responses to combined water stress and increasing temperatures in two bee‐pollinated congeners (Echium, Boraginaceae)
Authors: Descamps Charlotte , Marée Sophie , Hugon Sophie , Quinet Muriel , Jacquemart Anne‐Laure
Published: May 2020

Water stress and increasing temperatures are two main constraints faced by plants in the context of climate change. These constraints affect plant physiology and morphology, including phenology, floral traits, and nectar rewards, thus altering plant–pollinator interactions.

We compared the abiotic stress responses of two bee‐pollinated Boraginaceae species,Echium plantagineum, an annual, andEchium vulgare, a biennial. Plants were grown for 5 weeks during their flowering period under two watering regimes (well‐watered and water‐stressed) and three temperature regimes (21, 24, 27°C).

We measured physiological traits linked to photosynthesis (chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, and water use efficiency), and vegetative (leaf number and growth rate) and floral (e.g., flower number, phenology, floral morphology, and nectar production) traits.

The physiological and morphological traits of both species were affected by the water and temperature stresses, although the effects were greater for the annual species. Both stresses negatively affected floral traits, accelerating flower phenology, decreasing flower size, and, for the annual species, decreasing nectar rewards. In both species, the number of flowers was reduced by 22%–45% under water stress, limiting the total amount of floral rewards.

Under water stress and increasing temperatures, which mimic the effects of climate change, floral traits and resources of bee‐pollinated species are affected and can lead to disruptions of pollination and reproductive success.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Clavaminol A, Xestoaminol C and their Stereoisomers Exhibiting Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Nováková Gabriela , Drabina Pavel , Brůčková Lenka , Báčová Jana , Handl Jiří , Svoboda Jan , Vrbický Martin , Roušar Tomáš , Sedlák Miloš
Published: May 2020

The simple preparation of the natural sphingoid bases possessing cytotoxic activity – the marine drugs Clavaminol A and Xestoaminol C and all their unnatural stereoisomers – in high enantiomeric purity (ca. 95 % of major enantiomer) was described. The individual enantiomers were obtained by the utilization of asymmetric Henry reaction. The diastereomers of target compounds were separated by column chromatography after transformation into corresponding 2‐phenyloxazoline derivatives. The individual stereoisomers of Clavaminol A and Xestoaminol C were evaluated for antiproliferative activity in cancer cell lines (A‐549; Jurkat; SH‐SY5Y, MG‐63). From the obtained IC50 values is obvious, that the stereoisomers of Xestoaminol C are more potent inhibitors of cell proliferation than the stereoisomers of Clavaminol A. Further, it was found, that stereoisomers with syn‐configuration exhibited larger antiproliferative effects in comparison with the stereoisomers having anti‐configuration, in both sphingoid bases. Nevertheless, the values of IC50 found for individual enantiomers in each of the enantiomeric pairs are rather comparable implying a possibility of using racemic mixtures for induction of cytotoxicity.
Use of the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) 1989, 2010, and 2017 Classification of Epilepsy in children in a low‐resource setting: A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sharma Suvasini , Anand Aakanksha , Garg Divyani , Batra Sakshi , Mukherjee Sharmila B. , Patra Bijoy , Aneja Satinder
Published: May 2020

Objectives

This cross‐sectional study was designed to test the applicability of the 1989, 2010, and 2017 International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification of epilepsy in children from a resource‐limited setting in India.

Methods

Classification of seizure types and syndromes was done through parental interviews and review of medical records in children with epilepsy aged one month to 18 years. Available investigations including EEG, MRI, and metabolic/genetic tests were used in classifying patients as per the 1989, 2010, and 2017 ILAE (level II‐epilepsy type) classification. We compared the proportion of children remaining unclassified by each scheme.

Results

Seven hundred and twenty‐six children (436 males, mean age 6.4 ± 4.6 years) were enrolled. Using the 1989 ILAE classification, we were able to classify 95.7%, and 82.6% children by the 2010 scheme. The 2017 ILAE classification could classify all 726 children at level I (seizure type), 664 (91.0%) children at level II (epilepsy type), and an electroclinical syndrome could be identified in 409 (56.1%) of the children. An etiology could be identified in 75%, perinatal brain injury being the most frequent. West syndrome was the most common electroclinical syndrome, identified in 22.7% patients. The 1989 ILAE classification system was superior to the 2010 system (P = .01) in epilepsy classification. There was no difference between the 1989 and 2017 schemes (P = .31) or the 2010 and 2017 schemes (P = .10).

Significance

The 2017 ILAE classification, being multidimensional, allowed classification of children who could not undergo extensive evaluation due to economic constraints and also provided room for overlapping etiologies.
Effect of ethanol fumigation on pericarp browning associated with phenol metabolism, storage quality, and antioxidant systems of wampee fruit during cold storage
Authors: Shao Yuanzhi , Jiang Zitao , Zeng Jiaoke , Li Wen , Dong Yu
Published: May 2020

Wampee fruit is a popular fruit cultivar in South‐East Asia due to its high levels of nutrients and antioxidants; however, pericarp browning leads to a short storage life with great economic loss during years. The purpose of this work was to determine whether postharvest ethanol fumigation affected pericarp browning development of wampee fruit during 12 days of storage at 8 ± 0.5°C, and if so, how it is related to phenol metabolism and how it affects quality attributes and antioxidant systems during storage. After fruits were fumigated with 100, 300, 500, and 800 μl/L for 5 hr at 22 ± 0.5°C, ethanol significantly reduced the development of pericarp browning by increasing total phenolics (TP) content and decreasing the activity of polyphenol oxidase (PPO), especially in 500 μl/L ethanol treatment. Additionally, ethanol delayed the losses in fruit firmness (FF), soluble solid content (SSC), and titratable acidity (TA), retarded weight loss and accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) content and maintained relatively high contents of ascorbic acid (AsA), total flavonoids (TF), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD). In conclusion, results demonstrated that postharvest ethanol fumigation in wampee fruit has ability to reduce pericarp browning development by regulating phenol metabolism and enhancing antioxidant systems.