bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Size‐dependent electrophoretic migration and separation of water‐soluble gold nanoclusters by capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Wan Ting , Tang Fenglin , Yin Yanru , Zhang Maoxue , Choi Martin M. F. , Yang Xiupei
Published: January 2019

Recently, water‐soluble gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) have attracted more and more attention due to their unique properties. In this study, penicillamine‐protected gold nanoclusters (Pen‐AuNCs) were synthesized and initially fractionated by sequential size‐selective precipitation (SSSP). The crude Pen‐AuNCs and SSSP fractions were separated by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) with a diode array detector. The effects of key parameters, including the concentration of phosphate buffer, pH value and the ethanol content were systematically investigated. The separation of water‐soluble poly‐disperse AuNCs were well achieved at 30 mM phosphate buffer with 7.5% EtOH, pH 12.0, and applied voltage of 15 kV. The linear correlation between AuNCs diameter and mobility was observed. This finding provides an important reference for CE separation and product purification of water‐soluble AuNCs or other nanomaterials.
Study on fouling characteristics of CaCO3 at low reynolds number
Authors: Ma Weidong , Wang Zhirong , Jiao Fei , Zhen Yaya , Ma Chi
Published: January 2019

To study the effects of hardness and Reynolds number on the fouling of calcium carbonate under a low Reynolds number, the experimental method and principle for determining the fouling thermal resistance were analyzed theoretically. The experimental device for the whole heat transfer was designed. By changing the concentration of calcium carbonate and the Reynolds number in the fluid, the fouling process of calcium carbonate at a low Reynolds number was studied. The experimental results show that the fouling resistance will reach a fixed value over time, that is, the asymptotic fouling resistance. In the case of a constant Reynolds number, the concentration of calcium carbonate increased exponentially, and the asymptotic fouling resistance increased approximately. When the concentration of calcium carbonate was constant, the fouling resistance growth rate increased, and the asymptotic fouling resistance increased with a decreasing Reynolds number. However, the difference in the fouling rate and the asymptotic fouling resistance under different Reynolds numbers is obvious. Combined with the experimental results, it can be found that the initiation period is mainly determined by the heat transfer surface, and the fouling thermal resistance may be negative in the initiation period. According to the experiment, a predictive model is established. © 2019 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13146, 2019
Is China facing the social risks associated with reliance on hospitalization for the care of the elderly with chronic diseases?
Authors: Dai Weidong
Published: January 2019

This study aims to investigate if China is facing the social risks associated with reliance on hospitalization for the care of the elderly with chronic diseases. Textual studies and big data analysis indicate the following outcomes: (1) The elderly population suffering from chronic diseases is expanding rapidly, while the prevalence rate also shows a growing trend; (2) the reliance on hospitalization for the care of the elderly patients exists and has caused three new social risks; and (3) these social risks are wasted health resources, poverty between individuals and families, and relative increase in the disability rate of the elderly after hospital admission. We conclude that effectively defusing the risks entails strengthening the management of chronic diseases related to communal public health, initiating the concept of “continuity of care” to pursue an active combination of medical and health care, hastening the implementation of long‐term care insurance (LTCI) and other policy measures.
Rill flow resistance law under equilibrium bed‐load transport conditions
Authors: Di Stefano Costanza , Nicosia Alessio , Pampalone Vincenzo , Palmeri Vincenzo , Ferro Vito
Published: January 2019

In this paper, a recently deduced flow resistance equation for open channel flow was tested under equilibrium bed‐load transport conditions in a rill. First, the flow resistance equation was deduced applying dimensional analysis and the incomplete self‐similarity condition for the flow velocity distribution. Then, the following steps were carried out for developing the analysis: (a) a relationship (Equation ) between the Γ function of the velocity profile, the rill slope, and the Froude number was calibrated by the available measurements by Jiang et al.; (b) a relationship (Equation ) between the Γ function, the rill slope, the Shields number, and the Froude number was calibrated by the same measurements; and (c) the Darcy–Weisbach friction factor values measured by Jiang et al. were compared with those calculated by the rill flow resistance equation with Γ estimated by Equations  and . This last comparison demonstrated that the rill flow resistance equation, in which slope and Shields number, representative of sediment transport effects, are introduced, is characterized by the lowest values of the estimate errors.
First‐in‐human, phase I study of PF‐06647263, an anti‐EFNA4 calicheamicin antibody–drug conjugate, in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Garrido‐Laguna Ignacio , Krop Ian , Burris Howard A. , Hamilton Erika , Braiteh Fadi , Weise Amy M. , Abu‐Khalaf Maysa , Werner Theresa L. , Pirie‐Shepherd Steven , Zopf Christopher J. , Lakshminarayanan Mani , Holland Jaymes S. , Baffa Raffaele , Hong David S.
Published: January 2019

PF‐06647263, a novel antibody–drug conjugate consisting of an anti‐EFNA4 antibody linked to a calicheamicin payload, has shown potent antitumor activity in human xenograft tumor models, including triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). In the dose‐escalation part 1 of this multicenter, open‐label, phase I study (NCT02078752), successive cohorts of patients (n, 48) with advanced solid tumors and no available standard therapy received PF‐06647263 every 3 weeks (Q3W) or every week (QW), following a modified toxicity probability interval (mTPI) method (initial dosing: 0.015 mg/kg Q3W). Primary objective in part 1 was to estimate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and select the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). In part 2 (dose‐expansion cohort), 12 patients with pretreated, metastatic TNBC received PF‐06647263 at the RP2D to further evaluate tumor response and overall safety. PF‐06647263 QW administration (n, 23) was better tolerated than the Q3W regimen (n, 25) with only 1 DLT reported (thrombocytopenia). The most common AEs with the QW regimen (fatigue, nausea, vomiting, mucosal inflammation, thrombocytopenia, and diarrhea) were mostly mild to moderate in severity. The MTD was not estimated. PF‐06647263 exposures increased in a dose‐related manner across the doses evaluated. The RP2D was determined to be 0.015 mg/kg QW. Six (10%) patients achieved a confirmed partial response and 22 (36.7%) patients had stable disease. No correlations were observed between tumor responses and EFNA4 expression levels. Study findings showed manageable safety and favorable PK for PF‐06647263 administered QW at the RP2D, with preliminary evidence of limited antitumor activity in patients with TNBC and ovarian cancer.
Vitamin E: Regulatory Redox Interactions
Authors: Miyazawa Taiki , Burdeos Gregor C. , Itaya Mayuko , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Miyazawa Teruo
Published: January 2019

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that was discovered in the 1920s. Many of the physiological functions of vitamin E, including its antioxidative effects, have been studied for nearly 100 years. Changes in redox balance induced by both endogenously and exogenously generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in various diseases, and are also a phenomenon that is considered essential for survival. Vitamin E is known to regulate redox balance in the body due to its high concentration among the lipid soluble vitamin groups, and exists ubiquitously in the whole body, including cell membranes and lipoproteins. However, it has been reported that the beneficial properties of vitamin E, including its antioxidative effects, are only displayed in vitro, and not in vivo. Therefore, there exists an ongoing debate regarding the biological functions of vitamin E and its relationship with redox balance. In this review, we introduce the relationship between vitamin E and redox interactions with (i) absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of vitamin E, (ii) oxidative stress and ROS in the body, (iii) mechanism of antioxidative effects, (iv) non‐antioxidant functions of vitamin E, and (v) recent recognition of the field of oxidative stress research. Understanding the recent findings of the redox interaction of vitamin E may help to elucidate the different antioxidative phenomena observed for vitamin E in vitro and in vivo. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(4):430–441, 2019
Influence of environmental conditions in bovine bone ablation by ultrafast laser
Authors: Aljekhedab Fahad , Zhang Wenbin , Haugen Harold K. , Wohl Gregory R. , El‐Desouki Munir M. , Fang Qiyin
Published: January 2019

Ultrafast lasers are promising tools for surgical applications requiring precise tissue cutting. Shallow ablation depth and slow rate as well as collateral damage are common barriers limiting the use of laser in clinical applications. Localized cooling with water and/or air jet is known to reduce collateral thermal damage. We studied the influence of environmental conditions including air, compressed air flow, still water and water jet on ablation depth, ablation rate and surface morphology on bovine bone samples with an 800 nm femtosecond laser. At 15 J/cm2, no thermal effect was observed by electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The experimental results indicate that environmental conditions play a significant role in laser ablation. The deepest cavity and highest ablation rate were achieved under the compressed air flow condition, which is attributed to debris removal during the ablation process. The shallowest ablation depth and lowest ablation rates were associated with water flushing. For surface morphology, smooth surface and the absence of microcracks were observed under air flow conditions, while rougher surfaces and minor microcracks were observed under other conditions. These results suggest that ultrafast ablation of bone can be more efficient and with better surface qualities if assisted with blowing air jet.
Optimization of thermal pre‐flocculation treatment for effective air flotation harvesting of microalgae
Authors: Xue Yating , Li Yanpeng , Zou Xiaotong , Xu Kaiwei , Wen Hao , Zhang Bingqing , Li Ruobing , Shao Peilong , Fu Boming , Gong Yuchen
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

The production of microalgal biomass as a potential biofuel source is limited by expensive harvesting costs. However, air flotation has been applied as an effective method for harvesting microalgal cells from diluted liquid suspensions. In this study, Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus obliquus harvesting experiments were performed with thermal pretreatment prior to air flotation.

RESULTS

An orthogonal test showed that the harvesting efficiency was affected by the heating temperature and pH but not by the microalgal concentration or stirring rate. Under a heating temperature of 90 °C and pH 3, the optimal heat‐aided air flotation efficiency achieved for harvesting C. vulgaris was 26.5%, with a concentration factor of 5.5. For harvesting S. obliquus, the optimal harvesting efficiency was 93.6% and the concentration factor was 25.0 under a heating temperature of 70 °C and pH 3.

CONCLUSION

High temperature and low pH increased the zeta potential value of the microalgal cell surface, and high temperature promoted the secretion of extracellular organic matter, causing microalgal cells to gather and form flocs. The smaller flocs and higher zeta potential value of S. obliquus led to its higher harvesting efficiency. These conditions provided the possibility of waste acidic gas and thermal energy from industries replacing flocculants for the harvesting process. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Isolated partial right lower lobe pulmonary venous drainage into the right atrium as a cause of pulmonary hypertension in a middle‐aged woman
Authors: Ghaemian Ali , Nabati Maryam , Dabirian Mozhdeh , Shokri Mojtaba
Published: January 2019

Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection is a rare congenital disease characterized by drainage of one or several pulmonary veins into the systemic venous system. It is extremely rare as an isolated anomaly. We report the case of a middle‐aged woman with isolated drainage of an enormously enlarged right lower pulmonary vein into the right atrium with significant left‐to‐right shunt, severe right ventricular enlargement, and pulmonary hypertension.
Examining interrelationships between the Cigarette Purchase Task and delay discounting among pregnant women
Authors: Nighbor Tyler D. , Zvorsky Ivori , Kurti Allison N. , Skelly Joan M. , Bickel Warren K. , Reed Derek D. , Naudé Gideon P. , Higgins Stephen T.
Published: January 2019

Two common behavioral economic simulation tasks used to study cigarette smoking are the Cigarette Purchase Task, a measure of cigarette demand, and delay discounting, a measure of the subjective value of rewards as a function of delays to delivery. Few studies have evaluated whether combining these tasks enhances understanding of smoking beyond either alone. The current study represents an initial evaluation of the intersection between cigarette demand indices and delay discounting among pregnant smokers by examining associations between these measures and whether a woman makes antepartum quit attempts before entering prenatal care (a reliable predictor of eventual quitting). Participants were 159 pregnant women enrolled in a smoking‐cessation trial. Low O
max and shallow discounting were each associated with antepartum quit attempts. Participants were next categorized into four subgroups (low O
max, shallow discounting; low O
max, steep discounting; high O
max, shallow discounting; high O
max, steep discounting) using median splits. Those with shallow discounting and low O
max were more likely to have made quit attempts than each of the other three subgroups. That is, steep discounting appears to undermine the association of low O
max and efforts to quit smoking during pregnancy while high O
max overshadows any protective influence associated with shallow discounting.
Cases from the Undiagnosed Diseases Network: The continued value of counseling skills in a new genomic era
Authors: Macnamara Ellen F. , Schoch Kelly , Glanton Emily , Fieg Elizabeth , Brokamp Elly ,   Undiagnosed Diseases Network, Signer Rebecca , LeBlanc Kimberly , McConkie‐Rosell Allyn , Palmer Christina G.S.
Published: January 2019

The “diagnostic odyssey” is well known and described in genetic counseling literature. Studies addressing the psychological, emotional, and financial costs of not having a diagnosis have shown how it permeates the lives of patients and families. The Undiagnosed Diseases Network aims to end this odyssey by providing diagnoses to individuals with undiagnosed conditions through multidisciplinary evaluations, whole exome and genome sequencing, and basic science research. It also provides an opportunity to learn from patients and families and to better understand their journeys and the impact of receiving a diagnosis. Seven cases are presented that outline challenges that come from working with chronically undiagnosed and newly diagnosed patients in a time when sequencing for clinical diagnosis is rapidly increasing. They illuminate the emotional journey of patients and families searching for a diagnosis and the mental health problems, financial distress, and chaos that can accompany not having answers. They also illustrate the surprising reactions patients and families can have to receiving a diagnosis, including anger, grief, and disappointment. While the lessons learned from these families are not novel, new strategies are presented for handling these challenges in undiagnosed and ultra‐rare populations, groups that will increase with the rise of clinical sequencing.
A Facile Synthesis of Substituted 2‐(5‐(Benzylthio)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)pyrazine Using Microwave Irradiation and Conventional Method with Antioxidant and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Patil Sanjeev R. , Sarkate Aniket P. , Karnik Kshipra S. , Arsondkar Ashish , Patil Vrushali , Sangshetti Jaiprakash N. , Bobade Anil S. , Shinde Devanand B.
Published: January 2019

A series of novel substituted 2‐(5‐(benzylthio)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)pyrazine derivatives (6a–n) were synthesized under microwave irradiation and conventional conditions with less reaction time with good to excellent yields. All the synthesized compounds were screened for antioxidant and anticancer activities. Out of the 14 prepared derivatives, compounds 6f and 6m were most potent and active with antioxidant and anticancer activities, respectively. Also, the developed technique was simple, easy, and less time consuming.
Synthesis of Some New Thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidine Derivatives and Their Applications as Disperse Dyes
Authors: Abou Elmaaty Tarek , El‐Taweel Fathi , Abdeldayem Shereen , Abou Elfarh Abeer
Published: January 2019

A series of novel thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized by using β‐ketoanilides 1a–c as starting materials and as key intermediates for preparation of new pyrimidinecompounds 3a–e and fused heterocyclic pyrimidine derivatives 5a–c. The new compounds were transformed to disperse dyes 6a,b and 7. The chemical structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and elemental analyses and found to be in good agreement with the proposed structures. The versatility of compounds 6a,b and 7 for textile dyeing as disperse dyes was reported. The synthesized dyes were applied to polyester fabrics by using high temperature dyeing method at 120°C. The dye uptake expressed as color strength (k/s) of the dyed samples has been measured. Moreover, the color strength was examined in detail. In addition, the position of color in CIELAB coordinates (L*, a*, b*, h, and C*) was assessed. The color fastness of the dyed samples gave excellent results for washing and rubbing; however, the light fastness was moderate. Raman spectra of dyed samples unequivocally excluded ring dyeing and found to match with the proposed structures.
Establishment of sandwich ELISA for detecting the H7 subtype influenza A virus
Authors: Chen Lingling , Ruan Feier , Sun Ying , Chen Haiying , Liu Mingbin , Zhou Jianfang , Qin Kun
Published: January 2019

Avian H7N9 subtype influenza virus infects human with high case‐fatality rate since it emerged in 2013. Although the vaccination has been rapidly used in poultry due to the emergence of highly pathogenic strain, this virus remains prevalent in this region. Thus, rapid diagnosis both in poultry and human clinic is critically important for the control and prevention of H7N9 infection. In this study, a batch of H7 subtype‐specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were developed and a pair of mAb, 2B6, and 5E9 were used to establish a double‐antibody sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify H7 protein and detect influenza A virus baring H7 subtype HA. The lowest detection limit for the recombinant H7 protein was 10 ng/mL and 0.5 HAU/50 μL of A/Guangdong/17SF003/2016(H7N9), 2 HAU/50 μL of A/Netherlands/219/2003(H7N7) and A/Anhui/1/2013(H7N9) for live virus, respectively. The ELISA could not only detect the prevailing H7N9 virus, but also antigenic drift H7 subtype viruses, showing excellent sensitivity and high specificity. Hence, it could serve as a valuable approach to diagnose H7 subtype virus which showed great potential to cause pandemic, as well as antigen quantification.
Spatial patterns and time distribution of central European extreme precipitation events between 1961 and 2013
Authors: Gvoždíková Blanka , Müller Miloslav , Kašpar Marek
Published: January 2019

Precipitation extremes always have an area‐related effect, emphasizing the need for a spatial assessment of extreme precipitation events that sometimes show similar behaviour in precipitation patterns due to recurring synoptic features. Our study investigates spatial patterns in the extreme precipitation events (EPEs) that occurred in central Europe between 1961 and 2013. As many as 53 maximum events were selected by the weather extremity index (WEI), reflecting simultaneously the spatial extent and the return periods of t day precipitation totals within an event‐adjusted study area. The extremity of the EPEs is further evaluated at two lower spatial levels, the main river basins (the Rhine, Weser/Ems, Elbe, Danube, and Oder) and 20 smaller subcatchments, which enables a more detailed study of the events’ spatial structure and similarity. A correlation analysis demonstrated that heavy precipitation occurs simultaneously not only in neighbouring subcatchments but also in rather distant regions with similar orientations of mountain ranges (e.g., in the Elbe‐a and Danube‐b subcatchments). In contrast, strong negative correlations appeared between several subcatchments in the Oder and Rhine River basins, which exclude heavy precipitation from occurring simultaneously in both basins. Similar spatial patterns are obvious among precipitation extremes; using the relative WEI values as the similarity measure, agglomerative hierarchical clustering detected two well‐separated groups of events, namely, W‐CE and E‐CE, affecting mainly the western and eastern parts of central Europe, respectively. A finer division of the EPEs distinguished five clusters of events with different spatio‐temporal characteristics. Only two clusters, ED (Elbe‐Danube) and O (Oder), were represented among the top 10 central European EPEs, which occurred exclusively from the end of May to the beginning of September. Three other clusters consisted of generally lower extreme events rather equally distributed throughout the year.
Phenolic profile and antioxidant properties of sand rice (Agriophyllum squarrosum) as affected by cooking and in vitro digestion
Authors: Wang Qi , Shao Hongjun , Zhang Zhong , Yan Shuaishuai , Huang Feng , Zhang Hong , Yang Xinbing
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Sand rice (Agriophyllum squarrosum) is an underutilized pseudocereal bearing edible seeds. In this study, the phenolics and antioxidant activity of sand rice seeds after cooking and in vitro digestion were extensively investigated.

RESULTS

Total phenolic content (TPC) of the sand rice seeds was slightly increased whereas total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased after boiling. Furthermore, nine compounds were detected in the uncooked seeds, with hyperoside (169.19 ± 6.59 µg g−1 dry weight (DW)), protocatechuic acid (167.46 ± 7.21 µg g−1 DW), and rutin (83.15 ± 3.26 µg g−1 DW) as the major components. Apart from the bioaccessible phenolics in the aqueous fraction, these compounds retained in the solid residue of the porridge were released to varying degrees during simulated digestion. In addition, these phenolic extracts also exerted considerable antioxidant potency, which was positively correlated with their corresponding TPC, TFC, and phenolic profiles.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that both boiling and in vitro digestive treatments could considerably enhance the release of bioactive compounds and thus contribute antioxidant properties to sand rice porridge. These findings suggest that sand rice seed is a potential functional food and an excellent natural antioxidant source. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Design of selective molecularly imprinted sorbent for the optimized solid‐phase extraction of S‐pramipexole from the model multicomponent sample of human urine
Authors: Woźnica Marcin , Luliński Piotr
Published: January 2019

The objective of this article was to design the selective molecularly imprinted sorbent dedicated to the solid‐phase extraction of S‐pramipexole from the complex matrix such as human urine. For that purpose, S‐2,6‐diamino‐4,5,6,7‐tetrahydrobenzothiazole was used as the template acting as the structural analog of S‐pramipexole and five various monomers were employed in the presence of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate to produce molecularly imprinted polymers. The binding capabilities of resulted polymers revealed that the highest imprinting effect was noted for polymer prepared from the itaconic acid. The comprehensive analysis of morphology and the characterization of binding sites showed not only negligible differences in the extension of surfaces of imprinted and nonimprinted polymers but also higher heterogeneity of binding sites in the imprinted material. Comprehensive optimization of the molecularly imprinted solid‐phase extraction allowed to select the most appropriate solvents for loading, washing, and elution steps. Subsequent optimization of mass of sorbent and volumes of solvents allowed to achieve satisfactory total recoveries of S‐pramipexole from the model multicomponent real sample of human urine that equals to 91.8 ± 3.2% for imprinted sorbent with comparison to only 37.1 ± 1.1% for Oasis MCX.
Value of Real‐Time Shear Wave Elastography Versus Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Imaging in the Diagnosis of Female Bladder Neck Obstruction
Authors: Qian Mingqin , Jiang Dianyu , Su Chang , Wang Xuesong , Zhao Xia , Yang Shida
Published: January 2019

Objective

To investigate the application value of shear wave elastography (SWE) and acoustic radiation force impulse imaging (ARFI) in the diagnosis of female bladder neck obstruction (FBNO), we compared the advantages of these 2 methods to provide a more accurate reference for clinical work.

Methods

From April 2016 to February 2018, 27 patients who were diagnosed with FBNO by cystoscopy and/or urine dynamics testing were selected for the study, together with 24 healthy adults in a case‐control study at Liaoning Province People's Hospital. We collected general information from 27 patients with FBNO, and using transperineal 2‐dimensional ultrasound detection, shear wave elastography (SWE) and ARFI were used, respectively, to detect the Young's modulus and shear wave velocity (SWV) of the bladder necks. Cystoscopy results were considered to be the gold standard, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn for ARFI, SWE, and the combined diagnosis of the two. The efficacy of the diagnosis was determined by comparing the areas under the ROC curves and calculating the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Results

The areas under the ROC curve for the Q‐box mean and max value detected by SWE for FBNO patients were 88.4% and 89.9%, respectively, and the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 81.5%, 79.2%, and 80.4%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve detected by ARFI for FBNO patients was 93.7%, and the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 88.9%, 79.2%, and 84.3%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the combined detection of ARFI and SWE were 92.5%, 87.5%, and 90.2%, respectively. The best diagnostic cutoff point of the SWV or the Q‐box mean and max value of SWE in FBNO obtained with the ROC curve was SWV = 2.38 m/s (sensitivity, 71.4%; specificity, 82.5%), Q‐box mean = 20.2 kPa, Q‐box max = 39.8 kPa (sensitivity, 67.5%; specificity, 76.2%). The average shear wave velocity of ARFI, Q‐box mean, and Q‐box max value of SWE in the control group were 1.89 ± 0.35 m/s, 15.3 ± 3.6 kPa, and 29.2 ± 8.7 kPa, respectively. In the FBNO group, these values were 2.81 ± 0.63) m/s, 27.2 ± 8.6 kPa, and 51.2 ± 12.3 kPa, respectively. The differences were statistically significant (P < .05).

Conclusion

The value of the ARFI in the diagnosis of FBNO is a little greater than that of SWE in terms of sensitivity and accuracy, and the combined detection of ARFI and SWE performs better than ARFI or SWE employed separately.
Changes in rhizosphere bacterial and fungal community composition with vegetation restoration in planted forests
Authors: Liu Gui‐yao , Chen Li‐li , Shi Xin‐rong , Yuan Zhi‐you , Yuan Lois Y. , Lock T. Ryan , Kallenbach Robert L.
Published: January 2019

Soil microbial communities affect nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning. However, the variations in microbial diversity and community composition within degraded landscapes remain unclear. Using high‐throughput sequencing of bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA genes and internal transcribed spacer fungal sequences, we investigated the rhizosphere microbial diversity and community of coniferous Pinus tabulaeformis Carr. forests in degraded lands across a chronosequence that spanned over 60 years (10, 25, 40, and 60 years since restoration, four forest stands). We found significant differences in soil bacterial and fungal communities among stand ages. Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Acidobacteria dominated the rhizosphere, whereas Basidiomycota, Ascomycota, and Zygomycota prevailed as fungal components. With stand development, bacterial diversity decreased, but fungal diversity increased. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling analysis separated bacterial community clusters well by stands. Fungal community clusters of 25‐ and 60‐year‐old stands overlapped. The dominant bacteria Acidobacteria showed the highest relative abundance at the 40‐year‐old stands. Soil microbial communities correlated significantly with the macro‐nutrients (soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorous). Additionally, the relative abundance of Acidobacteria at the phylum level correlated positively with soil total phosphorous; Deltaproteobacteria at the class level correlated positively with soil organic carbon and total nitrogen. Thus, restoring vegetation in degraded temperate forests enhanced some macronutrients and influenced microbial communities. Our results revealed that restoring vegetation in degraded lands decreased the diversity of bacterial communities over time. In contrast, the soil fungal diversity increased after restoration, and fungal communities in the 25‐ and 60‐year‐old forest stands overlapped on degraded soils.
Diacylglycerol in Cationic Nanoparticles Stimulates Oxidative Stress‐Mediated Death of Cancer Cells
Authors: Bae Chun‐Sik , Ahn Taeho
Published: January 2019

Previous reports have suggested that cargo‐free cationic nanoparticles (cNP) consisting of cationic monovalent lipids, such as 1,2‐oleoyl‐3‐trimethylammonium‐propane (DOTAP), induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and toxicity in cells. In addition, cNP containing six lysine residues (6K) and cargo (6K‐cNP) exerted synergistic effects on ROS production and cell death in cancer cells. In this study, we investigated the effect of diacylglycerol (DAG) derived from egg phosphatidylcholine in nanoparticles (NP) on ROS‐mediated cellular toxicity. When DAG was incorporated into cNP (D‐cNP) or 6K‐cNP (6K‐D‐cNP) up to 7.8 mol% at the expense of DOTAP, and treated with cells, ROS generation in cancer cells increased further in a DAG concentration‐dependent manner compared with those of both cNP without DAG. Concomitantly, cancer cell viability was more decreased upon the treatment with DAG‐containing cNP. Moreover, D‐cNP or 6K‐D‐cNP exhibited enhanced uptake into cells under endocytosis‐inhibited conditions. Taken together, these results suggested that the presence of DAG in NP stimulated the interaction of NP with cancer cells and the resulting ROS‐mediated cytotoxicity.
Comparison of 311‐nm Titanium:Sapphire laser and 308‐nm excimer laser treatment for vitiligo: A randomized controlled non‐inferiority trial
Authors: Bae Jung Min , Eun Sung Hye , Lee Han Na , Kim Gyong Moon , Grimes Pearl E. , Lee Ji Hae
Published: January 2019

Objectives

The 308‐nm excimer laser (EL) has been widely used for localized vitiligo. The recently developed Titanium:Sapphire laser, emits a wavelength of 311 nm, would be expected to be as effective as excimer laser in treatment of vitiligo but few controlled trials have been reported. We sought to compare the efficacy and safety of the TSL and EL as vitiligo treatments.

Methods

A randomized controlled non‐inferiority trial based on split‐body was conducted. Patients with stable vitiligo between June 2016 and May 2017 were enrolled. Paired symmetrical vitiligo lesions were randomized to either the EL or TSL treatment group, and treated with a 308‐nm EL or a 311‐nm TSL twice weekly for 12 weeks. The extent of repigmentation was assessed every 4 weeks, and the non‐inferiority margin was set to 10%. We also recorded any adverse events.

Results

Seventy‐four paired lesions in 21 patients were assigned to both the EL group or TSL group. The mean difference between two groups (EL minus TSL) was −2.862%, and the 95% confidence interval (−6.531% to 0.807%) was lower than the non‐inferiority margin. No serious adverse events were noted in either group.

Conclusions

The Titanium:Sapphire laser showed similar therapeutic effect to excimer laser in localized vitiligo with good safety profiles in this non‐inferiority randomized controlled trial. The Titanium: Sapphire laser can serve as an alternative treatment option for localized vitiligo. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:239–244, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficacy and safety of intense pulsed light with a KTP filter for the treatment of solar lentigines
Authors: Friedmann Daniel P. , Peterson Jennifer D.
Published: January 2019

Background

Optical energy‐based devices, including intense pulsed light (IPL) and potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) lasers achieve reduction of pigmented and vascular lesions in a relatively similar number of treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an IPL with a “KTP‐like” filter emitting a wavelength of 525–585 nm for the treatment of solar lentigines on the hands and face.

Methods

This was a single center, prospective, open‐label clinical trial including 16 healthy Caucasian subjects (15 females, mean age, 55 years; skin types II and III) with hand and facial solar lentigines. Subjects were treated with three IPL treatment sessions with a KTP‐like filter conducted at monthly intervals. Follow‐up evaluations were performed 1, 3, and 6 months after the last treatment session. Overall pigmentation improvement, pigmentation clearance per lesion, adverse events, and subject tolerability to treatment were evaluated.

Results

Significant improvements in facial and hand pigmentation were noted at all follow‐up visits (P < 0.0001). One month after the last treatment session, good to excellent outcomes were noted in 74.6% of treated facial areas and 90% of treated hand regions. Although the effect of treatment gradually declined in both treatment regions over the 6‐month follow‐up period, over 60% of subjects demonstrated good to excellent results at the study end. Clinical effectiveness was further confirmed by the reduction in Melanin Index (MI) following each treatment as compared to baseline. Downtime and complications were minimal.

Conclusions

IPL treatment with a KTP‐like filter is a well‐tolerated and effective method for reducing facial and hand pigmentation. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:500–508, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Oxidation‐led decomposition of hexagonal boron nitride coatings on alloy substrates at 900 °C: Chromia‐formers
Authors: Fleming Christopher
Published: January 2019

In contrast to a mass of powder in air at 900 °C, the oxidation rate of hexagonal boron nitride does not tend to a plateau when present as a coating on austenitic stainless steel type 304 and type 310, and a real‐world hot forming tool alloy. As with a mass of powder, a molten boron trioxide diffusion barrier encapsulates each hexagonal boron nitride grain around the basal plane. These subsequently merge to form a dispersion of remnant grains throughout a molten matrix. Boron trioxide is semipermeable, and as such, the substrate oxidizes concurrently. As it does so, outwardly diffusing chromium (III) ions react with boron trioxide to form chromium borate, which depletes the diffusion barrier. This causes the oxidation of hexagonal boron nitride to be sustained at an enhanced rate and the overlayer ultimately undergoes complete decomposition. During this process, the scale comprises chromium borate and chromia only. While manganese chromium spinel and iron chromium spinel form readily at the oxide‐atmosphere interface of equivalently heat‐treated uncoated substrates, they do not form until after the coating has completely decomposed.
Photo‐Crosslinked Elastomeric Bimodal Poly(trimethylene carbonate) Networks
Authors: van Bochove Bas , Schüller‐Ravoo Sigrid , Grijpma Dirk W.
Published: January 2019

Using methacrylated poly(trimethylene carbonate) oligomers unimodal (prepared from one macromer) and bimodal (prepared from two macromers with different molecular weights) photo‐crosslinked networks and structures are prepared by stereolithography. The obtained biodegradable networks are flexible and elastic. Compared to the corresponding unimodal networks, the tensile properties of bimodal poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) network films are significantly enhanced. Resilient materials with increased toughness and suture retention strengths are obtained. The mechanical properties of the bimodal networks compare favorably with those of unimodal networks prepared previously from PTMC macromers with much higher molecular weights. Tough porous PTMC structures with designed diamond pore network architectures can also be readily prepared by stereolithography. Upon swelling of these PTMC structures in a solvent, the pore sizes and pore size distribution increases while the porosity decreases.
Sulfonyl‐Containing Polyimide Dielectrics with Advanced Heat Resistance and Dielectric Properties for High‐Temperature Capacitor Applications
Authors: Tong Hui , Fu Jing , Ahmad Aftab , Fan Tao , Hou Yudong , Xu Ju
Published: January 2019

Polymer dielectrics, with advanced dielectric properties and heat resistance, are critical for high‐temperature capacitors in various applications. However, the high performance of heat resistance and dielectric properties are quite difficult to achieve all together due to their mutual implication. Here, by intensively investigating the correlation between molecular structure and properties, polyimide dielectrics with i) enhanced dielectric constant by introducing sulfonyl group, ii) low dissipation factor by introducing flexible linkage, and iii) highTg(glass transition temperature) by retaining an aromatic structure, are obtained. The sulfonyl‐containing polyimides with different flexible linkages exhibit simultaneously a high dielectric constant (4.50–5.98), low dissipation factor (0.00298–0.00426), and outstanding breakdown strength (most above 500 MV m−1), as well as superior heat resistance (Tg: 244–304 °C). Specifically, the polyimide (SPI‐1) with sulfonyl group in diamine moiety and para‐para linkage shows stable dielectric properties up to 150 °C, and the discharged energy density and charge–discharge efficiency can be as high as 7.04 J cm−3and 91.3% at 500 MV m−1, respectively.
The myotonic dystrophy health index: Japanese adaption and validity testing
Authors: Mori Itsuki , Fujino Haruo , Matsumura Tsuyoshi , Takada Hiroto , Ogata Katsuhisa , Nakamori Masayuki , Innami Keisuke , Shingaki Honoka , Imura Osamu , Takahashi Masanori P. , Heatwole Chad
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The Myotonic Dystrophy Health Index (MDHI) is a disease‐specific, patient‐reported outcome measure. The objective of this study was to translate, evaluate, and validate a Japanese version of the MDHI (MDHI‐J).

Methods

We utilized forward and backward translations and qualitative interviews with 11 myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) participants. We subsequently tested the internal consistency, test–retest reliability, concurrent validity against muscle strength, and 3 quality‐of‐life measures, and the known‐groups validity of the MDHI‐J with 60 adult patients.

Results

The MDHI‐J was found to be culturally appropriate, comprehensive, and clinically relevant. The MDHI‐J and its subscales had high internal consistency (mean Cronbach's α = 0.91), test–retest reliability (intraclass coefficient 0.678–0.915), and concurrent validity (Spearman's ρ − 0.869 to 0.904). MDHI‐J scores were strongly associated with employment, duration of symptoms, and modified Rankin Scale.

Discussion

The MDHI‐J is suitable and valid to measure patient‐reported disease burden in adult Japanese patients with DM1. Muscle Nerve 59:577–577, 2019
The International Continence Society (ICS) report on the terminology for adult male lower urinary tract and pelvic floor symptoms and dysfunction
Authors: D'Ancona Carlos , Haylen Bernard , Oelke Matthias , Abranches‐Monteiro Luis , Arnold Edwin , Goldman Howard , Hamid Rizwan , Homma Yukio , Marcelissen Tom , Rademakers Kevin , Schizas Alexis , Singla Ajay , Soto Irela , Tse Vincent , de Wachter Stefan , Herschorn Sender ,   On behalf of the Standardisation Steering Committee ICS and the ICS Working Group on Terminology for Male Lower Urinary Tract & Pelvic Floor Symptoms and Dysfunction
Published: January 2019

Introduction

In the development of terminology of the lower urinary tract, due to its increasing complexity, the terminology for male lower urinary tract and pelvic floor symptoms and dysfunction needs to be updated using a male‐specific approach and via a clinically‐based consensus report.

Methods

This report combines the input of members of the Standardisation Committee of the International Continence Society (ICS) in a Working Group with recognized experts in the field, assisted by many external referees. Appropriate core clinical categories and a subclassification were developed to give a numeric coding to each definition. An extensive process of 22 rounds of internal and external review was developed to exhaustively examine each definition, with decision‐making by collective opinion (consensus).

Results

A Terminology Report for male lower urinary tract and pelvic floor symptoms and dysfunction, encompassing around 390 separate definitions/descriptors, has been developed. It is clinically‐based with the most common diagnoses defined. Clarity and user‐friendliness have been key aims to make it interpretable by practitioners and trainees in all the different specialty groups involved in male lower urinary tract and pelvic floor dysfunction. Male‐specific imaging (ultrasound, radiology, CT, and MRI) has been a major addition whilst appropriate figures have been included to supplement and help clarify the text.

Conclusions

A consensus‐based Terminology Report for male lower urinary tract and pelvic floor symptoms and dysfunction has been produced aimed at being a significant aid to clinical practice and a stimulus for research.
Doing good while doing business: Using financial viability to enhance employability for the disadvantaged
Authors: Maxwell Nan L. , Dunn Adam , Rotz Dana , Shoji Megan
Published: January 2019

The employment social enterprise (ESE) model can provide an opportunity to create a financially viable business that helps individuals with employment barriers become integrated into the labor force. This research studied eight ESEs. Findings suggest that by applying private‐sector business principles to a workforce development programs, social enterprises can provide participants with meaningful and valuable work experience, while offsetting program costs. Analysis identified four promising practices that social entrepreneurs should adopt when setting up a new enterprise. Enterprises should (a) provide soft‐skill training and social services to participants; (b) operate at a size that allows for economies of scale in production and the provision of support services; (c) have few occupational skill requirements; and (d) hire supervisors with both industry knowledge and the capacity to support individuals with employment barriers.
Health‐related quality of life, psychosocial functioning, and unmet health needs in patients with sarcoma: A systematic review
Authors: McDonough Joshua , Eliott Jaklin , Neuhaus Susan , Reid Jessica , Butow Phyllis
Published: January 2019

Objective

Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), psychosocial distress, and unmet health needs are important patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) for patients with sarcoma treated with curative intent. Syntheses of data on these PROs in patients with sarcoma are limited.

Methods

A systematic review of peer‐reviewed literature published between 2007 and 2017 was conducted using five databases, guided by the PRISMA and Cochrane reporting guidelines.

Results

Of 7240 articles identified, 31 were included in this review. Compared with healthy individuals, patients with sarcoma frequently scored lower in physical and psychological HRQoL domains and experienced higher rates of self‐image issues, depression, and suicide. However, outcomes for patients with sarcoma were relatively comparable to those with other malignancies. Anxiety symptoms were more common in the diagnosis phase, while depressive symptoms were more common in the treatment phase. Patients who are older, female, and socially isolated often reported lower HRQoL. As a sarcoma‐specific HRQoL instrument is not available, and all studies have used generic instruments, key issues may have been omitted.

Conclusion

There are few studies reporting data for HRQoL, psychosocial issues, or unmet health needs in this population. A sarcoma‐specific HRQoL instrument is needed to accurately describe outcomes in this population. There is a need for further qualitative research to conceptualise the HRQoL issues relevant to this population, against which to map existing HRQoL instruments and guide adaptation or creation of a new instrument.
Adrenomedullin disulfide bond mimetics uncover structural requirements for AM1 receptor activation
Authors: Fischer Jan‐Patrick , Schönauer Ria , Els‐Heindl Sylvia , Bierer Donald , Koebberling Johannes , Riedl Bernd , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: January 2019

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a vasoactive peptide hormone of 52 amino acids and belongs to the calcitonin peptide superfamily. Its vasodilative effects are mediated by the interaction with the calcitonin receptor‐like receptor (CLR), a class B G protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR), associated with the receptor activity modifying protein 2 (RAMP2) and functionally described as AM‐1 receptor (AM1R). A disulfide‐bonded ring structure consisting of six amino acids between Cys16 and Cys21 has been shown to be a key motif for receptor activation. However, the specific structural requirements remain to be elucidated. To investigate the influence of ring size and position of additional functional groups that replace the native disulfide bond, we generated ADM analogs containing thioether, thioacetal, alkane, and lactam bonds between amino acids 16 and 21 by Fmoc/t‐Bu solid phase peptide synthesis. Activity studies of the ADM disulfide bond mimetics (DSBM) revealed a strong impact of structural parameters. Interestingly, an increased ring size was tolerated but the activity of lactam‐based mimetics depended on its position within the bridging structure. Furthermore, we found the thioacetal as well as the thioether‐based mimetics to be well accepted with full AM1R activity. While a reduced selectivity over the calcitonin gene‐related peptide receptor (CGRPR) was observed for the thioethers, the thioacetal was able to retain a wild–type‐like selectivity profile. The carbon analog in contrast displayed weak antagonistic properties. These results provide insight into the structural requirements for AM1R activation as well as new possibilities for the development of metabolically stabilized analogs for therapeutic applications of ADM.