bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Illusion Optics: Disguising with Ordinary Dielectric Materials
Authors: Liu Yichao , Guo Shuwei , He Sailing
Published: December 2018

Illusion devices are usually designed using transformation optics. Here, a new method is proposed to achieve optical illusions without external devices by elaborately manipulating the scattering potential of an object. In contrast to the conventional transformation optics method, which completely replaces one object by the image of another object using complementary\restoring media and a superlens, the method described here is more of a cosmetic operation for an object, which modifies the scattering pattern of the object to mimic another object by exchanging their scattering potentials in two symmetrical areas in the wave vector domain. Only positive isotropic nonmagnetic materials are introduced in the present method, which is impossible using the conventional method because superlenses require negative‐index materials. Both numerical simulations and experimental demonstrations are used to verify the performance of the illusion devices of this method.
Force Modulation and Adaptability of 3D‐Bioprinted Biological Actuators Based on Skeletal Muscle Tissue
Authors: Mestre Rafael , Patiño Tania , Barceló Xavier , Anand Shivesh , Pérez‐Jiménez Ariadna , Sánchez Samuel
Published: December 2018

The integration of biological systems into robotic devices might provide them with capabilities acquired from natural systems and significantly boost their performance. These abilities include real‐time bio‐sensing, self‐organization, adaptability, or self‐healing. As many muscle‐based bio‐hybrid robots and bio‐actuators arise in the literature, the question of whether these features can live up to their expectations becomes increasingly substantial. Herein, the force generation and adaptability of skeletal‐muscle‐based bio‐actuators undergoing long‐term training protocols are analyzed. The 3D‐bioprinting technique is used to fabricate bio‐actuators that are functional, responsive, and have highly aligned myotubes. The bio‐actuators are 3D‐bioprinted together with two artificial posts, allowing to use it as a force measuring platform. In addition, the force output evolution and dynamic gene expression of the bio‐actuators are studied to evaluate their degree of adaptability according to training protocols of different frequencies and mechanical stiffness, finding that their force generation could be modulated to different requirements. These results shed some light into the fundamental mechanisms behind the adaptability of muscle‐based bio‐actuators and highlight the potential of using 3D bioprinting as a rapid and cost‐effective tool for the fabrication of custom‐designed soft bio‐robots.
Treatment and clinical outcome of clinical T4 esophageal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Makino Tomoki , Yamasaki Makoto , Tanaka Koji , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Kurokawa Yukinori , Motoori Masaaki , Kimura Yutaka , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro
Published: December 2018

Background

Survival of patients with cT4 esophageal cancer is dismal. Although the optimal treatment strategy remains to be established, two treatment options are available for cT4 esophageal cancers: definitive chemoradiation (dCRT) and induction treatment followed by conversion surgery (CS). However, little is known concerning the differences in clinical outcome between patients with T4 esophageal tumors treated with dCRT and those eventually treated with CS.

Methods

A systematic search of the scientific literature on PubMed/MEDLINE was carried out using the keywords “T4 esophageal cancer,” “invading (involving) adjacent organ,” “definitive chemoradiation,” “induction therapy,” “salvage surgery,” and “conversion surgery,” obtaining 28 reports published up to July 2018.

Results/Conclusion

We found that CS was superior to dCRT with respect to local disease control and short‐term survival; however, CS was associated with relatively higher perioperative mortality and morbidity. Alternatively, although dCRT might often cause fistula formation, a clinical complete response to dCRT is likely to lead to a better prognosis. Recent advances in chemotherapeutic agents have led to triple induction chemotherapy, with docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil (DCF), which has shown promise as an initial induction treatment for cT4 esophageal cancer. Indeed, this regimen could control both local and systemic disease, which enables curative resection without preoperative CRT. Moreover, some appropriate changes in perioperative management and intensive systemic chemotherapy might enhance patient outcome. Randomized controlled trials with a large sample size are needed to establish the standard treatment for cT4 esophageal cancer.
Determination of the predictive factors for significant liver fibrosis assessed through transient elastography
Authors: Kao Wei‐Yu , Su Chien‐Wei , Fang Sheng‐Uei , Tang Jui‐Hsiang , Chang Chun‐Chao , Liu Jean‐Dean
Published: December 2018

Several studies have reported the accuracy of transient elastography (TE), a noninvasive, reproducible, and reliable method for predicting liver fibrosis. This study evaluated the predictive factors associated with significant liver fibrosis assessed through TE. This study enrolled 1799 consecutive patients who underwent TE at Taipei Medical University Hospital between February 2014 and June 2015, including 810 patients with normal serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (<40 U/L). We evaluated the risk factors for significant liver fibrosis (liver stiffness measurement [LSM] > 7 kPa) assessed through TE and compared the results with those of the aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/platelet ratio index (APRI), a validated serum marker of liver fibrosis, in 672 patients with detailed laboratory data. Significant liver fibrosis was defined as an APRI score of >0.7. Significant liver fibrosis was detected through TE in 103 (12.7%) of 810 patients with normal serum ALT levels and in 91 (19.4%), 17 (18.7%), and 13 (5.8%) patients with chronic hepatitis B, chronic hepatitis C, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, respectively. Univariate analysis of patients with detailed biochemical test data showed that compared with without significant fibrosis, patients with significant fibrosis in the LSM > 7 kPa group were older; had higher body mass index (BMI) values; had higher fasting glucose, ALT, AST, total bilirubin, gamma‐glutamyltransferase, and ferritin levels; had higher APRI and fibrosis index based on four factors scores; had lower serum albumin levels and platelet counts; and higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, hepatitis C virus (HCV) positivity, splenomegaly, and hepatocellular carcinoma than those without significant fibrosis. Multivariate analysis disclosed that high BMI (P < 0.001), high AST levels (P = 0.006), low platelet counts (P < 0.001), and low albumin levels (P = 0.008) were the independent factors associated with significant liver fibrosis. In patients with normal serum ALT levels, the factors determining significant liver fibrosis were high BMI (P < 0.001), high AST levels (P < 0.001), low platelet counts (P = 0.001), and anti‐HCV positive (P = 0.006). LSM exhibited a moderate correlation with APRI scores (R2 = 0.325, P < 0.001). Among patients with normal serum ALT levels, the percentage of significant liver fibrosis defined as LSM > 7 kPa (11.2%) was higher than that of significant liver fibrosis defined as APRI > 0.7 (2.6%) (P < 0.001). Significant liver fibrosis is not uncommon in patients with chronic hepatitis and normal serum ALT levels. TE is a reliable method for assessing the degree of liver fibrosis. High BMI values, high AST levels, low platelet counts, and low albumin levels are correlated with the diagnosis of significant liver fibrosis through TE.
Spontaneous intramural esophageal dissection preceded by intramural esophageal hematoma: Report of a case study
Authors: Wang Chih‐Hsien , Tseng Ping‐Huei , Lee Yi‐Chia , Wu Ming‐Shiang , Wang Hsiu‐Po , Chen Chien‐Chuan
Published: December 2018

Spontaneous intramural esophageal dissection (IED) is a rare disorder characterized by acute symptoms, including chest pain, odynophagia, dysphagia, or hematemesis and remarkable endoscopic or radiographic findings. The pathophysiology is complex and remains poorly understood. Here, we report a 63‐year‐old woman who presented with progressive odynophagia, dysphagia, and weight loss. We diagnosed spontaneous IED with false lumen formation extending to the stomach using ultra‐thin upper endoscopy and water‐soluble contrast esophagogram. Comparing the patient's chronological computed tomographic images before and after symptom onset, we found that spontaneous IED was preceded by an intramural esophageal hematoma. Her symptoms persisted after 3 weeks of conservative treatment. Therefore, combined modalities of endoscopic transection and tissue glue application were given, and her symptoms improved gradually.
Associated anomalies in cases with anorectal anomalies
Authors: Stoll Claude , Dott Beatrice , Alembik Yves , Roth Marie‐Paule
Published: December 2018

Anorectal anomalies (ARA) are common congenital anomalies. The etiology of ARA is unclear and its pathogenesis is controversial. Cases with ARA often have other non‐ARA‐associated congenital anomalies. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and the types of these associated anomalies in a defined population. The associated anomalies in cases with ARA were collected in all live births, stillbirths, and terminations of pregnancy during 29 years in 387,067 consecutive births in the area covered by our population‐based registry of congenital malformations. Of the 202 cases with ARA, representing a prevalence of 5.21 per 10,000, 100 (49.5%) had associated anomalies. There were 7 (3.3%) cases with chromosomal abnormalities, and 31 (15.3%) nonchromosomal recognized dysmorphic conditions, including 17 cases with Vertebral defects, Anal atresia, Cardiac septal defects, esophageal atresia or TracheoEsophageal fistula, Renal anomalies and radial Limb defects association. Sixty two (30.7%) of the cases had nonsyndromic multiple congenital anomalies (MCA). Anomalies in the urogenital, the musculoskeletal, the cardiovascular, the digestive, and the central nervous systems were the most common other anomalies in the cases with MCA. The anomalies associated with ARA could be classified into a recognizable malformation syndrome or pattern in 38 out of the 100 cases (38%) with associated anomalies. This study included special strengths: each affected child was examined by a geneticist, all elective terminations were ascertained, and the surveillance for anomalies was continued until 2 years of age. In conclusion, the overall prevalence of associated anomalies, which was close to one in two cases, emphasizes the need for a routine screening for other anomalies in cases with ARA.
Creating a community of prospection practitioners: Contributions of the US National Park Service workshop
Authors: De Vore Steven L. , Dalan Rinita A. , Bevan Bruce
Published: December 2018

An annual series of lectures and field exercises has provided training in the archaeological application of geophysical, aerial and other remote sensing methods; this week‐long workshop has been coordinated by the US National Park Service (NPS) since 1991. Volunteer instructors have trained nearly 900 attendees at a variety of prehistoric, protohistoric, and historic sites across the United States. This NPS workshop is the longest‐standing training course in archaeological prospection and it is also responsible for training the greatest number within the archaeological community. Participants have benefited from their interactions with the large number of experienced instructors and from field exercises with a diverse array of modern equipment. The course has emphasized practical techniques for archaeologists and the development of research and commercial strategies; it has not trained archaeologists to be geophysicists. Above and beyond its role in training, the NPS workshop has created a community of practitioners, providing myriad opportunities for professional development, mentoring and collaboration, and it has played a major role in the acceptance of geophysics by archaeologists in the United States.
Enabling High Lithium Conductivity in Polymerized Ionic Liquid Block Copolymer Electrolytes
Authors: Goujon Nicolas , Huynh Tan‐Vu , Barlow Kristine j. , Kerr Robert , Vezzù Keti , Di Noto Vito , O'Dell Luke A. , Chiefari John , Howlett Patrick C. , Forsyth Maria
Published: December 2018

Herein, the use of a novel block copolymer host, based on a polymerized ionic liquid block copolymer, is proposed. Mechanically robust solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) with high lithium conductivity are developed using a ternary polymer electrolyte system, consisting of a poly(styrene‐b‐1‐((2‐acryloyloxy)ethyl)‐3‐butylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfo‐nyl)imide) (S‐PIL64‐16) block copolymer, a N‐propyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (C3mpyrFSI) ionic liquid (IL) and a lithium bis (fluorosulfonyl) imide (LiFSI) salt. The impact of both IL and lithium salt concentration on the morphology, ion migration processes and electrochemical performance of the electrolytes is characterized. High lithium ion conductivity is achieved when anion to Li+ molar ratio was kept below a value of 1.5, resulting in a lithium transport number (
) as high as 0.53 at 50 °C. Finally, the cycling performance in a Li|LiFePO4 full cell is assessed using an in‐house formulated solid‐state high loading cathode (LiFePO4 loading=10 mg cm−2, 1.8 mAh cm−2). 98 % of the theoretical discharge capacity (167 mA g−1) is achieved for the first cycle at a C‐rate of C/20 at 50 °C. The results herein reported are the first demonstration of a PIL block copolymer‐IL‐salt composite electrolyte operating at near‐practical levels, making them a promising choice of electrolyte for the next generation of solid‐state high capacity lithium‐metal batteries.
Chemo‐ and Regioselective Synthesis of Arylated γ‐Valerolactones from Bio‐based Levulinic Acid with Aromatics Using H‐β Zeolite Catalyst
Authors: Gundekari Sreedhar , Srinivasan Kannan
Published: December 2018

Catalytic coupling of biomass‐based molecules to value‐added chemical intermediates is an interesting area in biomass research. Arylated γ‐valerolactones (Agvls), promising pharmaceutical intermediates that have significant biological activity, are primarily synthesized currently through petro‐route. In this paper, we report successful biomass‐based synthesis of Agvls using levulinic acid (LA) and oxygen or sulphur‐ substituted aromatics over H‐β zeolite as catalyst under solvent‐free conditions. Under optimized condition, LA and anisole render 90 % conversion of former with 82 % yield of para‐substituted γ‐lactone. C−C bond formation followed by intra‐molecular esterification is witnessed in the course of the reaction, which is highly chemo‐ and regioselective. Though catalyst deactivated while reuse due to deposition of organic carbon moieties as deduced from several physicochemical techniques, it could be regenerated by simple calcination.
Pyrolysis of Natural Gas: Effects of Process Variables and Reactor Materials on the Product Gas Composition
Authors: Wang Steven , Lee Woo Jin , Li Chao'en , Kuan Benny , Burke Nick , Patel Jim
Published: December 2018

High‐temperature pyrolysis of natural gas is the basis of the standard method for the manufacture of acetylene. The study of methane pyrolysis was designed to find optimum process conditions that would produce high yields of acetylene with minimal carbon formation. High temperatures and short residence times enhanced the selectivity for acetylene, while hydrogen dilution was found to suppress the generation of carbonous products. Carbon formation on reactor surfaces over time may be mainly responsible for the misalignment of predicted and measured product gas compositions, as the mechanisms reported do not consider the surface chemistry. In essence, the pyrolysis system favors the highest possible temperature and shortest possible residence time, suggesting that the selection of reactor materials is the key for pyrolysis process optimization. The operating temperature is likely dictated by the physical properties of the reactor materials rather than the selection of optimal pyrolysis conditions.
Pristine Transition‐Metal‐Based Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Sun Fancheng , Li Qing , Xue Huaiguo , Pang Huan
Published: December 2018

Pristine metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) and their composites, which have received wide attention in recent years, especially in the field of electrocatalysis, are emerging as distinctive electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and many other electrochemical redox reactions. In this review, the attention is focused on the development of monometallic‐MOFs and multimetallic‐MOFs (including bimetallic‐MOFs and trimetallic‐MOFs) for electrocatalysis in recent years, including their design, catalytic performance and strategies for activity improvement. Finally, major challenges in utilizing pristine MOFs and their composites for electrocatalysis are highlighted.
Metal Oxynitrides as Promising Electrode Materials for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Kumar U. Naveen , Ghosh Sourav , Thomas Tiju
Published: December 2018

In the past decade, due to the demands of the electrochemical energy storage sector, there has been a quest for novel supercapacitor materials that offer champion storage characteristics. Metal oxynitrides are seen as potential candidates for electrochemical energy storage owing to their high cyclability (up to 105 cycles), good intrinsic conductivity (30000–35000 S cm−1), good wettability, corrosion resistance, and chemical inertness. In this review, the use of metal oxynitrides as electrode materials for supercapacitors is discussed. A comparison of oxynitrides with other electrode materials, such as metal oxides, carbon‐based materials, and their composites, is made. This study also places emphasis on the impact of synthesis techniques on the final properties of the material. In view of this critical analysis, we envisage future directions for this category of energy storage materials.
3D Metal‐Rich Cu7.2S4/Carbon‐Supported MoS2 Nanosheets for Enhanced Lithium‐Storage Performance
Authors: Liu Zhimin , Qi Shaopeng , Liu Guoning , Cheng Lin , Chen Jinxi , Lou Yongbing
Published: December 2018

MoS2 exhibits a high theoretical capacity and has been widely studied as an anode candidate for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, unmodified MoS2 suffers from inherently poor conductivity and poor cycle stability because of the lamellar stack. Herein, a novel core‐shell nanocomposite material (Cu7.2S4/C@MoS2) was obtained to significantly improve the electrochemical performance of MoS2, where ultra‐thin MoS2 nanosheets were uniformly grown on a three‐dimensional (3D) metal‐rich Cu7.2S4/C support by a simple hydrothermal reaction. When employed as an anode for LIBs, the discharge capacity of the 3D core‐shell Cu7.2S4/C@MoS2 nanocomposite reached 1527.4 mAh g−1 after 340 cycles at a high current density of 1 A g−1, which is much higher than that of pure MoS2 nanosheets. The excellent electrochemical performance of the nanocomposite demonstrates its potential application in batteries.
Introduction to the special issue on Workplace Mental Health
Authors: Kelloway E. Kevin
Published: December 2018

Mental health is an issue of increasing concern to both individuals and organizations in Canada. The articles presented in this special issue present several approaches to dealing with workplace mental issues and highlight the need for more research in this area. In particular there is a pressing need for evaluative research to, identify which strategies work to improve individual and organizational well‐being. © 2018 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lactation intensity and duration to postpartum diabetes and prediabetes risk in women with gestational diabetes
Authors: Shen Yun , Leng Junhong , Li Weiqin , Zhang Shuang , Liu Huikun , Shao Ping , Wang Peng , Wang Leishen , Tian Huiguang , Zhang Cuilin , Yang Xilin , Yu Zhijie , Hou Lifang , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Hu Gang
Published: December 2018

Objective

To investigate the association of lactation intensity and duration with postpartum diabetes and prediabetes risks among Chinese women with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM).

Methods

We included 1260 women with a history of GDM who participated in the whole population's GDM universal screening survey by using the 1999 World Health Organization's criteria. Lactation intensity and lactation duration were collected by a standardized questionnaire. Postpartum diabetes and prediabetes risk were confirmed by an oral glucose tolerance test.

Results

During a mean postpartum period of 3.65 years, we identified 114 cases of diabetes and 417 cases of prediabetes. The multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios based on different lactation intensity (exclusive formula, mixed feeding, and exclusive lactation) were 1.00, 0.68, 0.45 for diabetes (Ptrend = 0.008), and 1.00, 0.74, and 0.61 for prediabetes (Ptrend = 0.006), respectively. The multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios associated with different lactation duration (none, 0‐6 months, 6‐12 months, 12‐18 months, and ≥18 months) were 1.00, 0.66, 0.42, 0.66, and 0.25 for diabetes (Ptrend = 0.013), and 1.00, 0.82, 0.62, 0.67, and 0.63 for prediabetes (Ptrend = 0.021), respectively. A restricted cubic spline curve showed a graded inverse association of lactation duration with the risks of diabetes and prediabetes (Ptrend < 0.001).

Conclusions

Higher‐lactation intensity and longer‐lactation duration were significantly associated with lower risks of postpartum diabetes and prediabetes among Chinese women with a history of GDM.
Peripheral fat distribution versus waist circumference for predicting mortality in metabolic syndrome
Authors: Wu Chen‐Jung , Kao Tung‐Wei , Chen Yuan‐Yuei , Yang Hui‐Fang , Chen Wei‐Liang
Published: December 2018

Objective

To elucidate whether the peripheral fat (PF)‐combined definition of metabolic syndrome (MetS) would show a better predictive ability for cause‐specific mortality than the common MetS.

Methods

Data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999 through 2002. We investigated three types of MetS including waist circumference MetS (WCMetS), PFMetS, and PF‐combined definition of MetS. The main outcome was to evaluate the predictive ability of the newly defined MetS for time to cause‐specific mortality. The secondary outcomes were the relationships between the PF percentage and C‐reactive protein (CRP) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) to clarify the gender discrepancy.

Results

For cardiovascular mortality, the adjusted hazard ratios for WCMetS, PFMetS, and PF‐combined definition MetS were 1.867, 1.742, and 2.117, respectively (all P < 0.001). A positive association between PF percentage and CRP in men and a negative correlation between PF percentage and HOMA‐IR in women after adjustment for all variates were found.

Conclusions

The PF‐combined definition of MetS had a stronger predictive ability for all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality than general MetS. Notably, the PF might have differential gender‐specific health effects on cardiovascular events.
The First International Snakehead Symposium: News from the Front(s)
Authors: Odenkirk John S
Published: December 2018

The First International Snakehead Symposium was held in Alexandria, Virginia in July, 2018 and brought together snakehead experts from across the globe. Technical sessions, poster presentations, and a panel discussion occurred over 1.5 days and are archived on the Virginia Chapter of the American Fisheries Society webpage (https://units.fisheries.org/va/). This feature attempts to integrate new findings from that symposium with selected pre-existing information concerning this Asian fish family that has shown a propensity for worldwide invasion.
A new method to prepare functional phosphines through steady‐state photolysis of triarylphosphines
Authors: Yasui Shinro , Ando Taro , Ozaki Masashi , Ogawa Yuya , Shioji Kosei
Published: December 2018

The steady‐state photolysis of triarylphosphine, Ar3P, was carried out using a xenon lamp or a high‐pressure mercury lamp under an argon atmosphere in a solvent containing a functional group, CH3X. Gas chromatograph‐mass spectroscopic analysis on the photolysis showed that a phosphine to which the functional group from the solvent is incorporated, Ar2PCH2X, was formed in a moderate yield, along with tetraaryldiphosphine, Ar2PPAr2. The product, Ar2PCH2CN, from the photolysis in acetonitrile (X=CN) was isolated by column chromatography. In the photolysis in other solvents tried here (ethyl acetate, acetone, 2‐butanone, and 3,3‐dimethyl‐2‐butanone), Ar2PCH2X formed in the reaction mixture was so labile on a silica‐gel column that it was treated with S8 powder to convert to the corresponding phosphine sulfide, Ar2P(=S)CH2X. The resulting phosphine sulfide was isolated by column chromatography. The isolated products in these reactions, Ar2PCH2CN and Ar2P(=S)CH2X, were characterized by 1H, 13C, and 31P NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis or high‐resolution mass spectroscopy. The formation of Ar2PCH2X as well as Ar2PPAr2 is explained by homolytic cleavage of a P‐C bond of Ar3P in the photoexcited state. This reactivity of Ar3P in the photoexcited state is in sharp contrast to that exerted under aerobic conditions, where Ar3P in the photoexcited state donates readily an electron to oxygen producing the radical cation, Ar3P·+. This photoreaction, which affords a functional phosphine, Ar2PCH2X, in one‐pot with generating very small amounts of unidentified side products, has potential for use in preparing functional phosphines.
Multicenter prospective study on the use and outcome of rehabilitation after total laryngectomy in Germany
Authors: Singer Susanne , Vogel Hans‐Joachim , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando , Erdmann‐Reusch Bianca , Fuchs Michael , Taylor Katherine , Meyer Alexandra , Keszte Judith
Published: December 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the use and outcome of rehabilitation after total laryngectomy in Germany.

Methods

We enrolled patients who were scheduled for total laryngectomy, approached them again after surgery, after 3 months and 1 year. Patients completed questionnaires and were interviewed.

Results

Of 309 participants, 14% had not received any rehabilitation. Reasons for nonuse were primarily ongoing treatment and poor health. Users of rehabilitation had 4 times the odds of attaining any ability to speak compared to nonusers (odds ratio 3.8, P = .02). The main aim of rehabilitation from the perspective of the users was speech rehabilitation, mentioned by 71% before starting rehabilitation. This was also what most users (27%) found the most helpful part of rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Patients are interested in attending rehabilitation. They especially want to improve their speech capacity, which indeed is better among users of rehabilitation than in those without.
Combatting Fibrosis: Exosome‐Based Therapies in the Regression of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Chen Li , Brenner David A. , Kisseleva Tatiana
Published: December 2018

Hepatic fibrosis results from chronic injury and inflammation in the liver and leads to cirrhosis, liver failure, and portal hypertension. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatic fibrosis has advanced the prospect of developing therapies for regression of the disease. Resolution of fibrosis requires a reduction of proinflammatory and fibrogenic cytokines, a decrease in extracellular matrix (ECM) protein production, an increase in collagenase activity, and finally, a disappearance of activated myofibroblasts. Exosomes are nanovesicles of endocytic origin secreted by most cell types. They epigenetically reprogram and alter the phenotype of their recipient cells and hold great promise for the reversal of fibrosis. Recent studies have shown that exosomes function as conduits for intercellular transfer and contain all the necessary components to induce resolution of fibrosis, including the ability to (1) inhibit macrophage activation and cytokine secretion, (2) remodel ECM production and decrease fibrous scars, and (3) inactivate hepatic stellate cells, a major myofibroblast population. Here, we discuss the research involving the regression of hepatic fibrosis. We focus on the newly discovered roles of exosomes during fibrogenesis and as a therapy for fibrosis reversal. We also emphasize the novel discoveries of exosome‐based antifibrotic treatments in vitro and in vivo.
Evaluating different values of effort and reinforcement parameters under concurrent‐ and single‐operant arrangements
Authors: Lozy Erica D. , Sy Jolene R.
Published: December 2018

If particular parameters (e.g., reinforcer quality) are found to be preferred in a concurrent‐operant arrangement, then these should be incorporated into interventions for maintaining skills in individuals with intellectual disabilities. However, because results from a concurrent‐operant arrangement may not predict those of a single‐operant assessment, interventions with less preferred parameters may also be effective. The purpose of this study was to determine if preference for a particular parameter, determined via concurrent‐operant arrangements, predicted responding when two values of highly and less preferred parameters were manipulated in a single‐operant arrangement. Participants allocated responding to one parameter over another during concurrent‐operant assessments, indicating that certain parameters were highly preferred. However, contingent presentation of two values of less preferred parameters increased compliance to similar levels achieved with two highly preferred parameters in a single‐operant arrangement. These findings suggest that clinicians may have multiple options when selecting parameters for use during intervention.
PLGA/PLCA casting and PLGA/PDPA electrospinning bilayer film for prevention of postoperative adhesion
Authors: Niu Lijing , Feng Chengmin , Shen Chengyi , Wang Bing , Zhang Xiaoming
Published: December 2018

Postoperative adhesion is a common complication and preventing adhesions during or immediately after operation is particularly important. The application of solid barrier materials represents the most successful clinical strategy to prevent postoperative adhesion. However, a simple physical barrier effect might be insufficient in preventing adhesion satisfactorily. Multilayered structures can be designed with an outer layer as the barrier and an inner layer to respond to relative drug release. In this article, bilayer film composed of a PLGA/PLCA casting layer as barrier and PLGA/PDPA electrospinning layer to respond to the release of anti‐fibrosis drug l‐Phe was designed and synthesized. The adhesion prevention effect of the above PLGA/PLCA/PDPA bilayer film was examined and compared with single PLGA/PLCA casting film and single PLGA/PDPA electrospinning film by applying rabbit sidewall defect‐cecum abrasion model. As demonstrated by histological observation and immunohistochemical analysis, the bilayer film was the most effective of the three films in postoperative adhesion prevention in terms of both physical barrier effect and anti‐fibrosis effect of the PDPA macromolecular prodrug. Besides anti‐fibrosis effect, PDPA could also suppress excess proliferation of vascular endothelial cells and microvessel caused by long‐term stimulation of implantation materials to the surrounding tissues. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 107B: 2030–2039, 2019.
Computational investigation into the fluorescence of luciferin analogues
Authors: Vreven Thom , Miller Stephen C.
Published: December 2018

Luciferin analogues that display bioluminescence at specific wavelengths can broaden the scope of imaging and biological assays, but the need to design and synthesize many new analogues can be time‐consuming. Employing a collection of previously synthesized and characterized aminoluciferin analogues, we demonstrate that computational TD‐DFT methods can accurately reproduce and further explain the experimentally measured fluorescence wavelengths. The best computational approach yields a correlation with experiment of r = 0.98, which we expect to guide and accelerate the further development of luciferin analogues. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Endoscopic management of pancreatic ascites due to duct disruption following acute necrotizing pancreatitis
Authors: Rana Surinder S , Sharma Ravi K , Gupta Rajesh
Published: December 2018

Background and Aim

Acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP) can be associated with pancreatic duct (PD) disruption. PD disruption can lead to the formation of internal fistulae and consequent pancreatic ascites. Pancreatic ascites is reported very rarely following ANP, and therefore, the role of endotherapy in this setting is not defined. To retrospectively study the safety and efficacy of endoscopic drainage in patients with pancreatic ascites following ANP.

Methods

Over a period of 6 years, 12 patients (10 males; mean age: 35.9 ± 7.1 years) with pancreatic ascites following ANP underwent an attempted endoscopic drainage. Patients with a coexistent pancreatic fluid collection (PFC) underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided transmural drainage of PFC whereas patients with pancreatic ascites alone underwent transpapillary drainage alone.

Results

Nine (75%) patients had coexistent PFC, whereas three patients presented with ascites only. The mean size of PFC was 7.2 ± 1.6 cm. Patients with PFC underwent successful EUS‐guided transmural drainage (multiple plastic stents in eight and metal stent in one patient) with complete resolution of PFC as well as ascites within 2–3 weeks. Of three patients with ascites alone, one patient had complete PD disruption, whereas two patients had partial PD disruption. Both patients with partial disruption underwent successful placement of bridging transpapillary stent and resolution of ascites at 6 weeks. In patients with complete disruption, a nonbridging stent was placed into the disruption, and ascites resolved after 8 weeks. There has been no recurrence over 27.5 ± 17.7 weeks.

Conclusion

Endoscopic drainage is a safe and effective treatment modality for the treatment of pancreatic ascites following ANP.
LC/MS detection of oligogalacturonic acids obtained from tragacanth degradation by pectinase producing bacteria
Authors: Hosseini‐Abari Afrouzossadat , Emtiazi Giti , Jazini Mahboubeh , Kim Joonwon , Kim Byung Gee
Published: December 2018

Tragacanth, a highly branched carbohydrate polymer isolated from Astragalus, is one of the most commonly used gums in food industry. The primary structure of tragacanth is composed of galacturonic acid monomers connected with α 1–4 links, and it is very similar to the pectin. Tragacanth degradation by microorganisms is significant in two aspects: first, food preservation and microbial growth control due to too much use of tragacanth in the food industry, second, therapeutic and pharmaceutical potential of obtained oligosaccharides. In the present study, we report three new strains of bacteria, Acinetobacter guillouiae strain TD1, Kosakonia sacchari strain TD2, and Bacillus vallismortis strain PD1 with the capability of growing in tragacanth as an only source of carbon and energy. The evolutionary history of the isolated strains was analyzed based on 16S rRNA gene sequences in MEGA7 using the neighbor‐joining method. The production of di and tri galacturonic acid due to pectinase activities of the strains were detected by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and liquid chromatography/Mass spectroscopy (LC/MS) analysis. Here is the first report of the ability to grow in tragacanth and pectinase activity monitoring in bacteria. Our results revealed that all of the isolated strains are capable of degrading pectin and tragacanth to oligo‐galacturonic acids. The obtained products, which have different structures depending on the tragacanth structures and types of pectinolytic enzymes, would show therapeutic and pharmaceutical potentials.
Western North Pacific anticyclone change associated with the El Niño–Indian Ocean Dipole coupling
Authors: Kim Ji‐Won , An Soon‐Il
Published: December 2018

It is known that the lower‐tropospheric anomalous anticyclone over the western North Pacific (WNPAC) is strongly influenced by the sea surface temperature (SST) variations in the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans. In this study, we re‐examine a role of the dominant inter‐annual SST variability in the Indian Ocean basin (represented by the Indian Ocean Dipole [IOD]) in the formation and development of the WNPAC during El Niño. Regardless of the data sets obtained from observations and long‐term (1,300 years) model simulations, it is found that the WNPAC is strongly developed with larger circulation intensities when El Niño co‐occurs with a positive phase of IOD (i.e., El Niño–IOD coupling), whereas it is weakly developed when El Niño solely occurs (i.e., El Niño–IOD decoupling). Sensitivities computed by ratios of the WNPAC intensities to the El Niño intensities from the three cases of El Niño–IOD coupling strengths further capture the aforementioned changes, supporting the idea that the IOD has an active role in modulating the WNPAC intensity during its development phase in a co‐operation with the known El Niño‐related processes that drive the WNPAC. Additional analyses suggest that the pronounced atmospheric convection anomalies occurring over the western Indian Ocean during the WNPAC development season, which are only manifested in the El Niño–IOD coupled cases, may play an essential role for the WNPAC intensity modulation by concurrently enhancing the subsidence anomalies over the western Pacific including the Maritime Continent through a change in the tropical Walker circulation.
Office‐based transnasal esophagoscopy biopsies for histological diagnosis of head and neck patients
Authors: Mohammed Hassan , Del Pero Marcus , Coates Matthew , Masterson Liam , Tassone Peter , Burrows Stuart , Nassif Ramez
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To present yield of transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE) biopsies of upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) lesions and define the role of TNE as a safe alternative to rigid endoscopy.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

All patients who underwent TNE‐guided biopsies attempted over a 2‐year period were included. Patients were identified using coding records and outpatient diaries. Demographic data were recorded as well as the histological diagnosis and additional histological diagnostic procedures.

Results

During the observation period, 134 TNE‐guided procedures were attempted. The procedure could not be completed in 19 patients. There were 102/115 (89%) patients who did not require further interventions for histological diagnosis of the tumor. The most common biopsied area was the larynx (53), followed by the tongue base (29). The most common malignancy was invasive squamous cell carcinoma in 42/115 (36.5%).

Conclusions

The work presented in this article strongly suggests that TNE‐guided biopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool for patients suspected of having carcinoma of the UADT.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:2721–2726, 2019
Immunologic modification in mono‐ and poly‐sensitized patients after sublingual immunotherapy
Authors: Kim Jin Youp , Han Doo Hee , Won Tae‐Bin , Kim Hyun Jik , Lee Chul Hee , Rhee Chae‐Seo , Kim Dong‐Young
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

To compare immunologic modification and treatment outcomes after 2 years of sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) with house dust mite extracts (HDM) between monosensitized and polysensitized patients with allergic rhinitis.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Among the patients who were prospectively enrolled in the SLIT cohort study, patients with allergic rhinitis who were sensitized to HDM and treated with SLIT for at least 2 years were studied. All participants underwent serologic tests at baseline and after SLIT to evaluate changes in immunologic parameters. The total nasal symptom score (TNSS) was measured before and after SLIT, and effective and less effective responder groups were categorized depending on whether patients had a TNSS reduction of 50%, as compared with baseline.

Results

The increase in Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae specific immunoglobulin G4 levels was significantly higher in monosensitized patients than in polysensitized patients (P = .020 and P = .005, respectively). The TNSS significantly improved after SLIT in both the monosensitized and polysensitized groups (P < .001 in both groups). However, the difference in the changes in TNSS from baseline was not significant between the two groups (P = .374).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated different immunologic modifications after SLIT between monosensitized and polysensitized patients. However, patients in the polysensitized group who were treated with single‐allergen SLIT experienced clinical improvement in TNSS that was comparable with that in the monosensitized group despite demonstrating different immunologic changes.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 129:E170–E177, 2019
A dynamic and tribological simulation of a monolayer graphene sheet for a carbon atom‐graphene contact
Authors: Palaiologos Alexandros , Grigoriadis Kyriakos , Zavos Anastasios , Nikolakopoulos Pantelis G.
Published: December 2018

This study focuses on the dynamic and tribological characterisation of a single‐layer graphene sheet (SLGS). A 10 × 10 nm graphene model is developed, which is modally analysed for both zigzag and armchair lattices, thus enabling the examination of chirality effect on the SLGS' eigenfrequencies. The tribological analysis consists of the same SLGS model and a carbon atom simulating the graphene tip. The carbon atom is set to move on multiple paths to examine the importance of the path's position over the sheet. The friction forces applied on the tip during its movement can be calculated. The carbon atom tip is interlinked with the graphene atoms via the Lennard‐Jones model, characterising the real contact area. Spring elements mimic the interatomic forces, while beam and mass elements simulate the graphene's C─C covalent bonds and atoms, respectively, on a finite element simulation verified by the Prandtl‐Tomlinson model. It is perceived a strong stick‐slip effect on the friction force's areal pattern, which can be verified by the Prandtl‐Tomlinson theory of the atomic scale friction. It also became clear the effect of chirality, on graphene's tribological behaviour, after the differences in the calculated friction forces. Finally, an increase in the coefficient of friction analogous to the increase of the vertical load, due to graphene's deformation, is determined, while in the zigzag lattice, the coefficient of friction appears to be significantly lower that the armchair one.
Site‐Specific Oxidation‐Induced Stiffening and Shape Morphing of Soft Tough Hydrogels
Authors: Wang Jiahui , Li Tianzhen , Chen Fan , Zhou Dan , Gan Tiansheng , Zhou Xiaohu , Handschuh‐Wang Stephan , Zhao Liqing , Zhou Xuechang
Published: December 2018

Living biological tissues are made of structures with properly defined mechanical properties (toughness and stiffness) toward specific biological functions. Herein, a chemical manipulation strategy is developed to locally vary the oxidation state of Fe ions from divalent to trivalent in the tough hydrogels. The resultant trivalent ionically cross‐linked networks become less flexible and lead to a significant enhancement of the stiffness of the tough hydrogels. The mechanical strengthening of Fe2+/Ca2+‐alginate/polyacrylamide tough hydrogels is demonstrated by the oxidation with ammonium persulfate (APS). Moreover, by applying surface patterning, the mechanical properties of the tough hydrogels are spatially stiffened and thus can serve as anisotropic elements to guide the shape morphing of tough hydrogels into complex 3D structures. This method opens up a simple strategy not only to dynamically vary the mechanics of tough hydrogels, both in bulk and locally from prefabricated soft tough hydrogels, but also toward their shape morphing behaviors on demand.
A Hierarchical Bayesian Modeling Approach for the Habitat Distribution of Smooth Dogfish by Sex and Season in Inshore Coastal Waters of the U.S. Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Dell'Apa Andrea , Pennino Maria Grazia , Bangley Charles W. , Bonzek Christopher
Published: December 2018

The Smooth Dogfish Mustelus canis is an abundant, small coastal shark occurring along the U.S. Atlantic coast. Despite being targeted by a directed fishery and having recently undergone a stock assessment that found the population neither overfished nor experiencing overfishing, little is known about the spatial and temporal distribution of this species. Here, we used catch data from the spring and fall Northeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program's fishery-independent trawl surveys conducted between 2007 and 2016 and various environmental factors to perform hierarchical Bayesian modeling as a first attempt to spatially predict adult Smooth Dogfish CPUE in U.S. northwest Atlantic Ocean waters by sex and season. Relevant environmental variables differed between both sexes and seasons. Male and female CPUEs were similarly associated with lower salinity and shallower depth in the spring. During fall, male CPUE was associated with sea surface temperature and bottom rugosity, and female CPUE was associated with chlorophyll-a concentration, bottom rugosity, and year. Habitat modeling results predicted that areas of high male and female CPUEs would overlap during spring but strongly diverge during fall, when greater predicted CPUEs for males were distributed considerably farther north. These results suggest sexual segregation among Smooth Dogfish during fall, with the springtime overlap in distribution coinciding with the pupping and mating season in this population. This difference in distribution during fall may allow for a male-only directed fishery for Smooth Dogfish in the northern extent of the species’ range in waters near southern New England and Georges Bank.