bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ultrafast Assembly of a Dipeptide Supramolecular Organogel and its Phase Transition from Gel to Crystal
Authors: Yuan Tingting , Xu Youqian , Fei Jinbo , Xue Huimin , Li Xianbao , Wang Chenlei , Fytas George , Li Junbai
Published: June 2019

A gel‐to‐crystal phase transition of a dipeptide supramolecular assembly mediates active water transportation in oils. The addition of water into ultrafast‐assembling dipeptide organogels can induce a lamellar‐to‐hexagonal structural transformation of dipeptide molecular arrangement. Consequently, a phase transition from gel to crystal occurs and in turn water is transported in the dipeptide crystal via well‐defined channels. On a macroscopic scale, water transport in the bulk system exhibits an anisotropic characteristic, which can be tuned by the presence of ions in the Hofmeister series. These favorable features enable the automatic separation of dispersed nanoparticles from dissolved electrolytes in aqueous solution. These findings demonstrate the potential of this assembled system for active filtration without external pressure.
Value of Carotid Ultrasound in Cardiovascular Risk Stratification in Patients With Psoriatic Disease
Authors: Sobchak Curtis , Akhtari Shadi , Harvey Paula , Gladman Dafna , Chandran Vinod , Cook Richard , Eder Lihi
Published: June 2019

Objective

This study aimed to assess whether subclinical atherosclerosis, as evaluated by carotid ultrasound, could predict incident cardiovascular events (CVEs) in patients with psoriatic disease (PsD) and determine whether incorporation of imaging data could improve CV risk prediction by the Framingham Risk Score (FRS).

Methods

In this cohort analysis, patients with PsD underwent ultrasound assessment of the carotid arteries at baseline. The extent of atherosclerosis was assessed using carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) and total plaque area (TPA). Incident CVEs (new or recurrent) that occurred following the ultrasound assessment were identified. The association between measures of carotid atherosclerosis and the risk of developing an incident CVE was evaluated using Cox proportional hazards models, with adjustment for the FRS.

Results

In total, 559 patients with PsD were assessed, of whom 23 had incident CVEs ascertained. The calculated rate of developing a first CVE during the study period was 1.11 events per 100 patient‐years (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.74–1.67). When analyzed separately in Cox proportional hazards models that were controlled for the FRS, the TPA (hazard ratio [HR] 3.74, 95% CI 1.55–8.85; P = 0.003), mean CIMT (HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.03–1.42; P = 0.02), maximal CIMT (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.01–1.22; P = 0.03), and high TPA category (HR 3.25, 95% CI 1.18–8.95; P = 0.02) were each predictive of incident CVEs in patients with PsD.

Conclusion

The burden of carotid atherosclerosis is associated with an increased risk of developing future CVEs. Combining vascular imaging data with information on traditional CV risk factors could improve the accuracy of CV risk stratification in patients with PsD.
Etiologies, trends, and predictors of readmission in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Tripathi Byomesh , Yeh Robert W. , Bavishi Chirag P. , Sardar Partha , Atti Varunsiri , Mukherjee Debabrata , Bashir Riyaz , Abbott Jinnette Dawn , Giri Jay , Chatterjee Saurav
Published: June 2019

Background

Recent trials have shown benefits with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on nonculprit coronary vessels in select ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD). However, readmission rates and causes in this high‐risk group are unknown. Objective of this study is to explore pattern, causes and factors associated with 30‐day readmission after multivessel PCI in STEMI patients.

Methods and Results

Nationwide Readmissions Data (NRD) between 2010 and 2014 was utilized to identify multivessel PCI cases in STEMI patients using appropriate ICD‐9 codes. We evaluated 30‐day readmission rate and factors associated with 30‐day readmission. Hierarchical logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with 30‐day readmission. Among 22,257 STEMI patients who survived to discharge after multivessel PCI, 2,302 (10.3%) were readmitted within 30‐days. Subsequent unresolved/aggravated cardiac issues most commonly triggered readmission (62.66%). Among cardiac causes, heart failure and ischemic heart disease were most frequent etiologies. Advancing age (OR: 1.073, 95%CI: 1.026 to 1.122, p = .002), female sex (OR: 1.36, 95%CI: 1.23 to 1.50, p < .001), comorbid conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD; OR: 1.35, 95%CI: 1.17 to 1.57, p = .001), congestive heart failure (CHF; OR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.24 to 1.57, p = .04), anemia (OR: 1.16, 95%CI: 1.002 to 1.34, p = .04), and utilization of a mechanical circulatory support (MCS) device (OR: 1.45, 95%CI: 1.19 to 1.77, p < .001) during the index procedure were predictive of subsequent readmission within 30 days.

Conclusion

In this large nationally representative study, nearly one in 10 patients were readmitted within 30 days from discharge after index admission for multivessel PCI in STEMI, most commonly for cardiac causes.
Surgical treatment of Killian‐Jamieson diverticulum: A case report and literature review
Authors: Jeismann Vagner Birk , Bianchi Edno Tales , Szachnowicz Sérgio , Seguro Francisco Carlos Bernal da Costa , Tustumi Francisco , Duarte Andre Fonseca , Sallum Rubens Antonio Aissar , Cecconello Ivan
Published: June 2019

Key Clinical Message

This study describes a patient with symptomatic Killian‐Jamieson, a rare entity, successfully treated by cervical approach with diverticulum resection and esophagomyotomy.
Synthesis of Ag/AgBr/Bi4O5Br2 Plasmonic Heterojunction Photocatalysts: Elevated Visible‐light Photocatalytic Performance and Z‐scheme Mechanism
Authors: Ding Shanshan , Han Mengshu , Dai Yuxuan , Yang Shaogui , Mao Danjun , He Huan , Sun Cheng
Published: June 2019

The novel photocatalysts of Ag/AgBr/Bi4O5Br2 layered microspheres (AAB‐LMs) were firstly constructed via the in‐situ deposition and visible‐light photoreduction approach. Their compositions, structures, morphologies and optical properties were characterized by various techniques. The photocatalytic efficiencies of AAB‐LMs‐10 were 28 and 3.4 times higher than those of Bi4O5Br2‐LMs towards degrading acid orange II and aniline, respectively. The superior photocatalytic behavior of AAB‐LMs benefited from efficient separation and transfer of photo‐generated charges, which was mainly credited to the surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag nanoparticles and the synthetic interaction among Ag, AgBr and Bi4O5Br2. O2− and h+ were characterized as the predominant photoactive species in this AAB‐LMs‐photocatalysis system. Moreover, due to the presence of radical species Br0, which was verified by the detection of bromoaniline and dibromoaniline during the photocatalytic degradation process of aniline, Z‐scheme mechanism rather than the conventional heterojunction mode was more suitable to explain the enhanced photocatalytic performance of AAB‐LMs.
Engineering a Seven Enzyme Biotransformation using Mathematical Modelling and Characterized Enzyme Parts
Authors: Finnigan William , Cutlan Rhys , Snajdrova Radka , Adams Joseph P. , Littlechild Jennifer A. , Harmer Nicholas J.
Published: June 2019

Multi‐step enzyme reactions offer considerable cost and productivity benefits. Process models offer a route to understanding the complexity of these reactions, and allow for their optimization. Despite the increasing prevalence of multi‐step biotransformations, there are few examples of process models for enzyme reactions. From a toolbox of characterized enzyme parts, we demonstrate the construction of a process model for a seven enzyme, three step biotransformation using isolated enzymes. Enzymes for cofactor regeneration were employed to make this in vitro reaction economical. Good modelling practice was critical in evaluating the impact of approximations and experimental error. We show that the use and validation of process models was instrumental in realizing and removing process bottlenecks, identifying divergent behavior, and for the optimization of the entire reaction using a genetic algorithm. We validated the optimized reaction to demonstrate that complex multi‐step reactions with cofactor recycling involving at least seven enzymes can be reliably modelled and optimized.
Supporting‐Electrolyte‐Free Electrochemical Methoxymethylation of Alcohols Using a 3D‐Printed Electrosynthesis Continuous Flow Cell System
Authors: van Melis Carlo G. W. , Penny Matthew R. , Garcia Anthony D. , Petti Alessia , Dobbs Adrian P. , Hilton Stephen T. , Lam Kevin
Published: June 2019

We describe the development of a novel low‐cost small‐footprint 3D‐printed electrosynthesis continuous flow cell system that was designed and adapted to fit a commercially available Electrasyn 2.0. The utility and effectiveness of the combined flow/electrochemistry system over the batch process was demonstrated in the development of an improved and supporting‐electrolyte‐free version of our anodic methoxymethylation of alcohols.
New s‐Block Metal Pyridinedicarboxylate Network Structures through Gas‐Phase Thin‐Film Synthesis
Authors: Penttinen Jenna , Nisula Mikko , Karppinen Maarit
Published: June 2019

The combined atomic and molecular layer deposition (ALD/MLD) technique offers a unique way to build—both known and previously unknown—crystalline coordination polymer materials directly from gaseous precursors in a high‐quality thin‐film form. Here, we demonstrate the ALD/MLD of crystalline Li‐, Na‐, and K‐based 3,5‐pyridinedicarboxylate (3,5‐PDC) thin films; the Li2‐3,5‐PDC films are of the known Li‐ULMOF‐4 crystal structure whereas the other as‐deposited crystalline films possess structures not previously reported. Another exciting possibility offered by ALD/MLD is the deposition of well‐defined but amorphous metal–organic thin films, such as our Mg‐, Ca‐, Sr‐, and Ba‐based 3,5‐PDC films, which can then be crystallized into water‐containing structures through a post‐deposition humidity treatment. All together, the new metal–organic structures realized in this study through ALD/MLD comprise a majority of the (anhydrous and water‐containing) members of the s‐block metal 3,5‐pyridinedicarboxylate family.
Experimental methods in chemical engineering: X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy‐XPS
Authors: Lefebvre Josianne , Galli Federico , Bianchi Claudia L. , Patience Gregory S. , Boffito Daria C.
Published: June 2019

X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a quantitative surface analysis technique used to identify the elemental composition, empirical formula, chemical state, and electronic state of an element. The kinetic energy of the electrons escaping from the material surface irradiated by an x‐ray beam produces a spectrum. XPS identifies chemical species and quantifies their content and the interactions between surface species. It is minimally destructive and is sensitive to a depth between 1–10nm. The elemental sensitivity is in the order of 0.1 atomic %. It requires ultra high vacuum ( Pa) in the analysis chamber and measurement time varies from minutes to hours per sample depending on the analyte. XPS dates back 50 years ago. New spectrometers, detectors, and variable size photon beams, reduce analysis time and increase spatial resolution. An XPS bibliometric map of the 10 000 articles indexed by Web of Science[1] identifies five research clusters: (i) nanoparticles, thin films, and surfaces; (ii) catalysis, oxidation, reduction, stability, and oxides; (iii) nanocomposites, graphene, graphite, and electro‐chemistry; (iv) photocatalysis, water, visible light, and ; and (v) adsorption, aqueous solutions, and waste water.
Cell Culture and Coculture for Oncological Research in Appropriate Microenvironments
Authors: Chhetri Apekshya , Chittiboyina Shirisha , Atrian Farzaneh , Bai Yunfeng , Delisi Davide A. , Rahimi Rahim , Garner John , Efremov Yuri , Park Kinam , Talhouk Rabih , Lelièvre Sophie A.
Published: June 2019

With the increase in knowledge on the importance of the tumor microenvironment, cell culture models of cancers can be adapted to better recapitulate physiologically relevant situations. Three main microenvironmental factors influence tumor phenotype: the biochemical components that stimulate cells, the fibrous molecules that influence the stiffness of the extracellular matrix, and noncancerous cells like epithelial cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells. Here we present methods for the culture of carcinomas in the presence of a matrix of specific stiffness, and for the coculture of tumors and fibroblasts as well as epithelial cells in the presence of matrix. Information is provided to help with choice and assessment of the matrix support and in working with serum‐free medium. Using the example of a tissue chip recapitulating the environmental geometry of carcinomas, we also highlight the development of engineered platforms that provide exquisite control of cell culture parameters necessary in research and development. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Best Practices for Illumina Library Preparation
Authors: Bronner Iraad F. , Quail Michael A.
Published: June 2019

In this unit, we describe a set of protocols and recommendations for Illumina library preparation. We review best practices in template quantitation methods; template fragmentation methodologies; solid‐phase reverse‐immobilization cleanup, including buffer exchange and size selection; end repair, A‐tailing, and adapter ligation; indexing strategies; considerations regarding whether to use polymerase chain reaction; final library quantification methodologies; and normalization and pooling strategies. These workflows are applicable to both high‐throughput and low‐throughput Illumina library preparation and should help reduce bias, increase cost effectiveness, and produce high library yields. This is an extensive update of the previous version of this unit. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Escalating human–wildlife conflict in the Wolong Nature Reserve, China: A dynamic and paradoxical process
Authors: Xu Jianying , Wei Jianying , Liu Wenhua
Published: June 2019

Human–wildlife conflict (HWC) has become a conservation focus for both protected area management and local communities in many parts of the world. The incidence and mediation of HWCs are rooted in coupled environmental and socioeconomic contexts. A systematic analysis of HWCs was undertaken in 2016 in the Wolong Nature Reserve located in Sichuan Province, southwestern China. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 201 local households to understand the occurrence of wildlife damage, the wildlife species involved, the typical losses incurred, and the mitigation measures employed. The results revealed that local HWC has increased rapidly in recent years due to effective biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration policies. Despite the widespread occurrence of HWCs, with nearly all respondents stating that they had suffered a financial loss, appropriate compensation schemes are lacking. Local respondents' expected compensation amount and style were investigated, and it was concluded that integrated compensation and community development plans are needed to mediate and resolve HWC. In particular, greater attention should be given to reduce local households' dependence on agriculture and transform local livelihood strategies to alternative economic activities not related to farming, such as ecotourism development and migrating employment.
Extreme drought causes fish recruitment failure in a fragmented Great Plains riverscape
Authors: Perkin Joshuah S. , Starks Trevor A. , Pennock Casey A. , Gido Keith B. , Hopper Garrett W. , Hedden Skyler C.
Published: June 2019

Dryland stream fishes are adapted to highly connected habitats with unpredictable hydrologic conditions, including frequent low flows and sometimes extreme drought. The low flow recruitment hypothesis predicts that some fishes spawn in main channel habitats during low flows when water temperatures and prey densities are high. However, extreme low flows during drought periods might be disruptive even among fishes whose life histories otherwise benefit from lower flows. We studied recruitment dynamics of six fishes (family Cyprinidae) at 15 sites in a fragmented Great Plains riverscape in Kansas, USA, during 2 years of extreme drought. We tracked the chronology of gonadal development and age 0 recruitment to test the hypothesis that recruitment by fishes that broadcast spawn planktonic ova would be less successful compared with fishes that spawn demersal or adhesive ova. We found all six taxa were reproductively active but recruitment was evident for only four. The two species for which recruitment was not evident, peppered chub (Macrhybopsis tetranema) and silver chub (Macrhybopsis storeriana), are confirmed or suspected pelagic‐broadcast spawning fishes that have declined in other fragmented and dewatered Great Plains riverscapes. Our data highlight the potential for extreme low flows within isolated stream fragments to cause complete or near‐complete recruitment failure for pelagic‐broadcast spawning fishes, especially those with small population sizes. Failed recruitment during extreme drought may be related to spawning mode, ova characteristics, or both. Our work informs management of fish diversity in drought‐prone riverscapes by establishing mechanistic linkages among extreme drought, fish recruitment, and assemblage structure.
Synthesis of 5‐Fluorocytosine Using 2‐Cyano‐2‐fluoroethenolate as a Key Intermediate
Authors: Dietz Jule‐Philipp , Derstine Brenden P. , Ferenc Dorota , Crawford Evan T. , Arduengo Anthony J. , Gupton B. Frank , McQuade D. Tyler , Opatz Till
Published: June 2019

There is an urgent demand for 5‐fluorocytosine (5‐FC) due to its activity against HIV‐induced fungal infections as well as its use as a key intermediate in the synthesis of the clinically highly important anti‐HIV drug emtricitabine (FTC). We report a simple, low‐cost five steps synthesis of 5‐FC starting from chloroacetamide. Overall yields up to 46 % were achieved and the route is devoid of any chromatographic purifications. The previously unknown key intermediate (Z)‐2‐cyano‐2‐fluoroethenolate is obtained through a Claisen‐type condensation from fluoroacetonitrile. As the direct cyclization with urea only gave poor yields, 5‐fluoro‐2‐methoxypyrimidin‐4‐amine, 5‐fluoro‐2‐(methylsulfanyl)pyrimidin‐4‐amine and 5‐fluoropyrimidine‐2,4‐diamine served as synthetic intermediates.
Mediator and Additive Free Trifluoromethyl‐Fluorination of Terminal Alkenes by Persistent Perfluoroalkyl Radical
Authors: Sato Azusa , Ponomarenko Maksym V. , Ono Taizo , Röschenthaler Gerd‐Volker , Soloshonok Vadim A.
Published: June 2019

It was found that the persistent perfluoro‐3‐ethyl‐2,4‐dimethyl‐3‐pentyl radical (PPFR) can serve as a source of both trifluoromethyl‐radical and fluorine atom in the reactions with terminal olefins. This dual reactivity allows for the direct and operationally convenient di‐functionalization of C=C bond to 1‐CF3‐2‐F‐alkanes. Preliminary data strongly suggest potentially high synthetic value of this methodologically new transformation.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Ring‐Opening of Hydrogenolysis Spirocyclopropyl Oxindoles Through Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Liu Zhi‐Ping , Li Jin‐Lian , Cheng Xiu‐Liang , Cui Jian‐Guo , Huang Yan‐Ming , Gan Chun‐Fang , Su Wei , Xiao Jun‐An
Published: June 2019

An efficient photoredox‐catalyzed ring‐opening hydrogenolysis of spirocyclopropyl oxindoles by using diisopropylethylamine as reducing agent has been developed. Varieties of 3‐substituted oxindole derivatives were achieved in moderate to good yields under mild reaction conditions. Furthermore, the synthetic utility is demonstrated by further transformations of the synthesized products.
1,3‐Dipolar Cycloadditions of Stabilized Azomethine Ylides and Electrophilic Alkenes Mediated by a Recyclable TSIL·AgOAc Catalyst
Authors: Lledó David , Grindlay Guillermo , Sansano José Miguel
Published: June 2019

The synthesis of a task‐specific ionic liquid (TSIL) based on a BMIM ionic liquid phosphane is achieved by modification of the original procedure. It is used as a ligand with AgOAc, and the resulting complex is fully characterized. This catalytic system promotes the 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of stabilized azomethine ylides and electrophilic alkenes using a green methodology. The green character was analyzed using an overall set of parameters finding the optimal conditions and individualized separation/purification methods for each cycloadduct. The determination of the most important green metrics is reported in this survey, demonstrating the value of this methodology on a laboratory scale or even at an industrial level.
Pressure Effect on the PEMFC Performance
Authors: Lu J. B. , Wei G. H. , Zhu F. J. , Yan X. H. , Zhang J. L.
Published: June 2019

A three‐dimensional and two‐phase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model for a single serpentine channel polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) based on ANSYS FLUENT fsimulation software is used to investigate the pressure effects on the PEMFC performance. The model is validated by a series of experiments and the numerical data fit well with the experiment results. The PEMFC performance is improved as the increase in back pressure. The simulation results revealed an important mechanism between pressure and humidity: a high back pressure could lead to a high relative humidity (RH) in cathode channel, which results in a high membrane water content. Based on this mechanism, the voltage increased by pressurization is divided into 2 parts: the voltage increased by reactants' partial pressure (Nernst potential) and the voltage increased by enhanced membrane water content. The comparison showed that the major benefit of pressurization is to keep adequate water in the membrane. The analysis of net power efficiency is also performed and it shows that the back pressure of 50 kPa is enough at low densities (less than 1,000 mA cm−2) and the back pressure of 100 kPa is needed at high densities (more than 1,000 mA cm−2).
PyFrag 2019—Automating the exploration and analysis of reaction mechanisms
Authors: Sun Xiaobo , Soini Thomas M. , Poater Jordi , Hamlin Trevor A. , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias
Published: June 2019

We present a substantial update to the PyFrag 2008 program, which was originally designed to perform a fragment‐based activation strain analysis along a provided potential energy surface. The original PyFrag 2008 workflow facilitated the characterization of reaction mechanisms in terms of the intrinsic properties, such as strain and interaction, of the reactants. The new PyFrag 2019 program has automated and reduced the time‐consuming and laborious task of setting up, running, analyzing, and visualizing computational data from reaction mechanism studies to a single job. PyFrag 2019 resolves three main challenges associated with the automated computational exploration of reaction mechanisms: it (1) computes the reaction path by carrying out multiple parallel calculations using initial coordinates provided by the user; (2) monitors the entire workflow process; and (3) tabulates and visualizes the final data in a clear way. The activation strain and canonical energy decomposition results that are generated relate the characteristics of the reaction profile in terms of intrinsic properties (strain, interaction, orbital overlaps, orbital energies, populations) of the reactant species. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Computational Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
miR‐409‐5p negatively regulates Wnt/Beta catenin signaling pathway by targeting Lrp‐8
Authors: Prakash Ravi , John Aijaz A , Singh Divya
Published: June 2019

Signaling pathways like Wnt play a vital part in all aspects of skeletal development which include osteoblastogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. Inactivation of Wnt signaling pathway leads to bone‐related disorders, whereas activation of Wnt signaling pathway can cure bone pathologies like osteoporosis. Certain microRNA(s) have been identified that commune with Wnt signaling molecules to regulate osteogenesis. In this study we reported the identification of miR‐409‐5p as a suppressor of osteogenesis by targeting Lrp‐8 which is a positive effector of Wnt signaling. Our study showed that overexpressing miR‐409‐5p inhibits osteoblast differentiation whereas obstructing miR‐409‐5p expression by anti‐miR‐409 promotes osteoblast functions and matrix mineralization. Using tools like targetscan and 3′‐UTR luciferase reporter assay, Lrp‐8 was confirmed as a straight target of miR‐409‐5p. By over expressing miR‐409‐5p, a repression of canonical Wnt/β catenin signaling was observed. These observations were strengthened by the fact that silencing of miR‐409‐5p in ovariectomized estrogen deficient Balb/c mice restored the loss of trabecular bone microarchitecture and suppressed bone resorption. Thus, targeting miR‐409‐5p may be helpful in increasing bone density in conditions like post menopausal osteoporosis.
Mst1 contributes to nasal epithelium inflammation via augmenting oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in a manner dependent on Nrf2 inhibition
Authors: Song Henge , Wang Mengmeng , Xin Ting
Published: June 2019

Nasal epithelium inflammation plays an important role in transmitting and amplifying damage signals for the lower airway. However, the molecular basis of nasal epithelium inflammation damage has not been fully addressed. Mst1 is reported to modulate inflammation via multiple effects. Thus, the aim of our study is to understand the pathological mechanism underlying Mst1‐related nasal epithelium inflammation in vitro. Our result indicated that Mst1 expression was rapidly increased in response to tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) treatment in vitro and this effect was a dose‐dependent manner. Interestingly, knockdown of Mst1 via transfecting small interfering RNA markedly reversed cell viability in the presence of TNF‐α. Further, we found that Mst1 deficiency reduced cellular oxidative stress and attenuated mitochondrial dysfunction, as evidenced by reversed mitochondrial complex‐I activity, decreased mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening rate, and stabilized mitochondrial membrane potential. Besides, we found that Nrf2 expression was increased after deletion of Mst1 whereas silencing of Nrf2 abolished the protective effects of Mst1 deletion on nasal epithelium survival and mitochondrial homeostasis. Moreover, Nrf2 overexpression also protected nasal epithelium against TNF‐α‐induced inflammation damage. Altogether, our data confirm that the Mst1 activation and Nrf2 downregulation seem to be the potential mechanisms responsible for the inflammation‐mediated injury in nasal epithelium via mediating mitochondrial damage and cell oxidative stress.
Climate change impact on a wine‐producing region using a dynamical downscaling approach: Climate parameters, bioclimatic indices and extreme indices
Authors: Blanco‐Ward Daniel , Monteiro Alexandra , Lopes Myriam , Borrego Carlos , Silveira Carlos , Viceto Carolina , Rocha Alfredo , Ribeiro António , Andrade João , Feliciano Manuel , Castro João , Barreales David , Neto Jorge , Carlos Cristina , Peixoto Carlos , Miranda Ana
Published: June 2019

Climate change is of major relevance to wine production as most of the wine‐growing regions of the world are located within relatively narrow latitudinal bands with average growing‐season temperatures (GSTs) limited to 13–21°C. This study focuses on the incidence of climate variables and indices that are relevant both for climate change assessment and for grape production, with emphasis on grapevine bioclimatic indices and extreme events (e.g., cold waves, storms, heatwaves). Dynamical downscaling of European Reanalysis‐Interim and Max Planck Institute Earth System low‐resolution global simulations forced with a Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) greenhouse gas emission scenario was performed with the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model to a regional scale including the Douro Valley of Portugal for recent‐past (1986–2005) and future periods (2046–2065, 2081–2100). The number, duration and intensity of events were superimposed over critical phenological phases estimated by using a specific local grapevine varietal phenological model in order to assess their positive or negative implications for wine production in the region. An assessment of the relevance of climate parameters and indices and their progression in recent‐past and future climate scenarios with regard to the potential impact on wine production was performed. Results indicate a positive relation between higher growing‐season heat accumulations and greater vintage yields. A moderate incidence of very hot days (daily maximum temperature above 35°C) and drought from pre‐véraisonphenological conditions have a positive association with vintage ratings. However, the mid‐ and long‐term WRF‐MPI RCP8.5 future climate scenarios reveal shifts to warmer and drier conditions, with the mean GST not remaining within range for quality wine production in the long‐term future climate scenario. These results indicate potential impacts that suggest a range of strategies to maintain wine production and quality in the region.
Effects of Type II Diabetes Mellitus on Tendon Homeostasis and Healing
Authors: Nichols Anne E. C. , Oh Irvin , Loiselle Alayna E.
Published: June 2019

Over 300,000 tendon repairs are performed annually in the United States to repair damage to tendons as a result of either acute trauma or chronic tendinopathy. Individuals with type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are four times more likely to experience tendinopathy, and up to five times more likely to experience a tendon tear or rupture than non‐diabetics. As nearly 10% of the US population is diabetic, with an additional 33% pre‐diabetic, this is a particularly problematic health care challenge. Tendon healing in general is challenging and often unsatisfactory due to the formation of mechanically inferior scar‐tissue rather than regeneration of native tendon structure. In T2DM tendons, there is evidence of an amplified scar tissue response, which may be associated with the increased the risk of rupture or impaired restoration of range of motion. Despite the dramatic effect of T2DM on tendon function and outcomes following injury, there are few therapies available to promote improved healing in these patients. Several recent studies have enhanced our understanding of the pro‐inflammatory environment of T2DM healing and have assessed potential treatment approaches to mitigate pathological progression in pre‐clinical models of diabetic tendinopathy. This review discusses the current state of knowledge of diabetic tendon healing from molecular to mechanical disruptions and identifies promising approaches and critical knowledge gaps as the field moves toward identification of novel therapeutic strategies to maintain or restore tendon function in diabetic patients. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:13–22, 2020
Micromotion and Push‐Out Evaluation of an Additive Manufactured Implant for Above‐the‐Knee Amputees
Authors: Barnes Spencer C. , Clasper Jon C. , Bull Anthony M. J. , Jeffers Jonathan R. T.
Published: June 2019

In comparison to through‐knee amputees the outcomes for above‐the‐knee amputees are relatively poor; based on this novel techniques have been developed. Most current percutaneous implant‐based solutions for transfemoral amputees make use of high stiffness intramedullary rods for skeletal fixation, which can have risks including infection, femoral fractures, and bone resorption due to stress shielding. This work details the cadaveric testing of a short, cortical bone stiffness‐matched subcutaneous implant, produced using additive manufacture, to determine bone implant micromotion and push‐out load. The results for the micromotions were all <20 μm and the mean push‐out load was 2,099 Newtons. In comparison to a solid control, the stiffness‐matched implant exhibited significantly higher micromotion distributions and no significant difference in terms of push‐out load. These results suggest that, for the stiffness‐matched implant at time zero, osseointegration would be facilitated and that the implant would be securely anchored. For these metrics, this provides justification for the use of a short‐stem implant for transfemoral amputees in this subcutaneous application. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2104–2111, 2019
Clinical Study to Assess the 1,060 nm Diode Laser for the Treatment of Post‐Liposuction Deformities
Authors: Petti Christine , Stoneburner Jacqueline
Published: June 2019

Background and Objectives

Liposuction has become increasingly popular in the past decade due to advances in technique and technology. Despite the demand, there exists a significant population of patients who have contour deformities post‐liposuction. The 1,060 nm diode laser has been Food and Drug Administration cleared for the removal of unwanted fat, so it was theorized that this noninvasive laser system could be efficacious to smooth these areas of post‐liposuction contour deformities. This study was designed to retrospectively study the clinical changes induced by a 1,060 nm diode laser system to treat contour deformities in tissue post‐liposuction.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Fifteen patients with contour deformities post‐liposuction (minimally six months post‐surgery) were treated in the area of the deformity with the noninvasive hyperthermic 1,060 nm diode laser system. Each patient received two treatments at a 6‐week interval in the anatomical area of their contour deformity.

Results

Fifteen subjects had completed two treatments and the necessary follow‐up needs to be included in these results. Two blinded evaluators could correctly identify the pre‐treatment image compared to the post‐treatment image in an average of 85% of subjects. So, 100% of the patients were graded to be at least “Improved” with an average of 40% of subjects being “Very Much Improved”. Patient satisfaction was “High” in all subjects who have completed the treatment protocol. The physician satisfaction was rated as “Much Improved” in 33% of the patient results and “Improved” in 66% of the patient results.

Conclusions

The noninvasive hyperthermic 1,060 nm diode system is highly effective and safe for the treatment of contour deformities post‐liposuction. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phosphodiester Hydrogels for Cell Scaffolding and Drug Release Applications
Authors: Dera Rafael , Diliën Hanne , Billen Brecht , Gagliardi Mick , Rahimi Nastaran , Van Den Akker Nynke M. S. , Molin Daniel G. M. , Grandfils Christian , Adriaensens Peter , Guedens Wanda , Cleij Thomas J.
Published: June 2019

Given the major structural role phosphodiesters play in the organism it is surprising they have not been more widely adopted as a building block in sophisticated biomimetic hydrogels and other biomaterials. The potential benefits are substantial: phosphoester‐based materials show excellent compatibility with blood, cells, and a remarkable resistance to protein adsorption that may trigger a foreign‐body response. In this work, a novel class of phosphodiester‐based ionic hydrogels is presented which are crosslinked via a phosphodiester moiety. The material shows good compatibility with blood, supports the growth and proliferation of tissue and presents opportunities for use as a drug release matrix as shown with fluorescent model compounds. The final gel is produced via base‐induced elimination from a phosphotriester precursor, which is made by the free‐radical polymerization of a phosphotriester crosslinker. This crosslinker is easily synthesized via multigram one‐pot procedures out of common laboratory chemicals. Via the addition of various comonomers the properties of the final gel may be tuned leading to a wide range of novel applications for this exciting class of materials.
How to Tailor Structural Colors for Extended Visibility and White Light Generation Employing Direct Laser Interference Patterning
Authors: Storm Sebastian , Alamri Sabri , Soldera Marcos , Kunze Tim , Lasagni Andrés Fabián
Published: June 2019

The appearance of a surface can be controlled by creating periodic microstructures designed to diffract light and produce structural colors. Nevertheless, since structural coloration is based on diffraction, the produced colors have a strong dependence on the viewing angle and absence of coloration takes place while tilting the samples. In this work direct laser interference patterning is used to firstly provide transparent polymer sheets a structural coloration with a high‐range observation angle, and secondly to demonstrate the combination of structural colors, producing a white coloring effect. The employed approaches are based on the fabrication of micro‐gratings with multiple periods in the same structured area and on the engineering of the diffraction orders of the diffraction spectrum. The patterned surfaces are characterized by confocal microscopy and angular spectrometry in reflection mode. The morphological characterization shows homogeneous surface patterns, while the spectral results demonstrate that combining four spatial periods on a single patterned surface, a white appearance is obtained over an angular observation range higher than 30°. The experimental results are supported by theoretical predictions by means of generalized formulas based on the diffraction of light.
Enhancement of epigenetic reprogramming status of porcine cloned embryos with zebularine, a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor
Authors: Taweechaipaisankul Anukul , Kim Geon A , Jin Jun‐Xue , Lee Sanghoon , Qasim Muhammad , Kim Eui Hyun , Lee Byeong Chun
Published: June 2019

Aberrant epigenetic reprogramming is known to be a major cause of inefficient somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in pigs, and use of epigenetic modification agents, such as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis), is a promising approach for enhancing SCNT efficacy. Here, we attempted to find the optimal condition of zebularine (Zb), a DNMTi, treatment on porcine SCNT embryos during in vitro culture (IVC). As results, treatment with 5 nM Zb for 24 hr showed the highest rate of embryo development to blastocyst compared to other groups (p < .05). Also, the relative intensities of global DNA methylation levels of anti‐5‐methylcytosine in pseudo‐pronuclear (PNC), 2‐cell and 4‐cell stages were significantly lower in the Zb‐treated group (p < .05), however, changes in methylation levels of centromeric satellite repeat were noted only in PNC and blastocyst stages. In addition, significant positive alterations in the relative expression of genes related to pluripotency (OCT4 and SOX2), histone acetylation (HAT1, HDAC1, HDAC2, and HDAC3) and DNA methylation (DNMT1 and DNMT3a) were observed compared to the control (p < .05). In conclusion, we found that Zb could modify DNA methylation levels in the early stages of porcine SCNT embryos and promote their developmental competence.
A regularized reconstruction pipeline for high‐definition diffusion MRI in challenging regions incorporating a per‐shot image correction
Authors: Cousin Samuel F. , Liberman Gilad , Solomon Eddy , Otikovs Martins , Frydman Lucio
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Diffusion MRI is of interest for clinical research and diagnosis. Whereas high‐ resolution DWI/DTI is hard to achieve by single‐shot methods, interleaved acquisitions can deliver these if motion and/or folding artefacts are overcome. Thanks to its ability to provide zoomed, folding‐free images, spatially encoded MRI can fulfill these requirements. This is here coupled with a regularized reconstruction and parallel receive methods, to deliver a robust scheme for human DWI/DTI at mm and sub‐mm resolutions.

Methods

Each shot along the spatially encoded dimension was reconstructed separately to retrieve per‐shot phase maps. These shots, together with coil sensitivities, were combined with spatially encoded quadratic phase‐encoding matrices associated to each shot, into single global operators. Their originating images were then iteratively computed aided by l1 and l2 regularization methods. When needed, motion‐corrupted shots were discarded and replaced by redundant information arising from parallel imaging.

Results

Full‐brain DTI experiments at 1 mm and restricted brain DTIs with 0.75 mm nominal in‐plane resolutions were acquired and reconstructed successfully by the new scheme. These 3 Tesla spetiotemporally encoded results compared favorably with EPI counterparts based on segmented and selective excitation schemes provided with the scanner.

Conclusion

A new procedure for achieving high‐definition diffusion‐based MRI was developed and demonstrated.
Nocturnal voiding frequency does not describe nocturia‐related bother
Authors: Rose Georgie E. , Denys Marie‐Astrid , Kumps Candy , Whishaw David M. , Khan Fary , Everaert Karel C. , Bower Wendy F.
Published: June 2019

Aim

Nocturia frequency has been used as a measure of treatment efficacy for nocturia even though fluctuation of the symptom over time has been well described in the literature. Additionally, given the multifactorial causal pathway and clinically relevant comorbidities, frequency alone may be an insufficient marker of treatment direction. The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with nocturia‐related bother to identify additional variables that may capture the impact of nocturia, direct clinical care and have potential to quantify treatment outcome.

Methods

Prospective data from tertiary hospital Urology and Continence cohorts were matched for identical variables to generate a sample of 204 datasets. Descriptive statistics were obtained to describe the two cohorts. Characteristics of patients were evaluated across levels of nocturia frequency and nocturia‐related bother using nonparametric methods; statistically significant differences between groups in each cohort were established.

Results

Nocturia frequency alone does not comprehensively reflect attributable bother. Five sleep variables (poor quality sleep, short time to first awakening to void, less than 7 hours of total sleep, primary sleep latency, and daytime sleepiness) and daily urinary urgency were significantly associated with high nocturia‐related bother. Attributable bother, despite high‐frequency nocturia, was minimized by male gender, lack of daily urinary urgency and good sleep quality. Poor health status, urinary urgency and sleep latency were associated with nocturia frequency.

Conclusions

Items of importance to individuals with nocturia have been identified from patient data. These variables have the potential to sit alongside change in nocturia frequency as potential markers of treatment response.
A new bladder‐emptying method in females with neurogenic bladder: A randomized, phase II trial
Authors: Calisto Fernanda C. F. S. , Vilar Fabio O. , Lustosa Eugênio S. , Calisto Sérgio L. S. , Schots Heron O. , Lima Salvador V. C.
Published: June 2019

Aim

To evaluate the performance of the new device compared with clean intermittent catheterization (CIC).

Methods

From March 2015 to March 2018, patients who were admitted to the urologic outpatient clinic. A new intraurethral self‐retaining device (ISRD) was made of medical grade silicone and it was inspired by similar catheters that use sliding disks to adjust or fix tubes used to drain the bladder. Patients were randomized into two groups (experimental group [GI]‐ISRD vs control group [GII]‐CIC). The evaluation was performed at the time of enrollment and 6 months after treatment. Intervention was initiated from the antisepsis of the perineal region and subsequent introduction of the device through the external urethral meatus. The primary outcome was quality of life (QOL). Urinary tract infections (UTIs) episodes, data on urodynamic parameters, adverse effects and number of diapers per day.

Results

A total of 177 subjects were analyzed. We found a significant improvement on QOL analysis in the ISRD group (P < .01). ISRD group presented an important reduction (two episodes after ISRD use) on number of UTIs (P < .01) and diaper use, and significant improvement on bladder capacity (80 mL of the average improvement) (P < .01) and compliance (P = .01). Among all registered serious adverse effects, ISRD presented with lower proportion.

Conclusions

The new device has shown to be a safe and promising alternative for adequate emptying of the neurogenic bladder in female patients. Our study has a limitation that is related to a limited period of observation.
Synthesis and characterization of new nitrogen‐ and oxygen‐rich cyclohexanone–formaldehyde resin for fast Cd(II) adsorption in aqueous solution
Authors: Dinari Mohammad , Maleki Mohammad Hassan , Bagheri Rouhollah
Published: June 2019

A new structure of cyclohexanone–formaldehyde resin (CFR) was synthesized viain situcondensation reaction of 2,4,6‐tris(p‐formylphenoxy)‐1,3,5‐triazine (TFPA) with CFR. TFPA was prepared by the reaction of cyanuric chloride andp‐hydroxybenzaldehyde and its structure was confirmed using spectroscopic methods and elemental analysis. The structural, thermal and morphological properties of the nitrogen‐ and oxygen‐rich CFR were studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy. After characterization, the resin was used as an adsorbent for Cd(II) due to the high level of nitrogen and oxygen in its structure. The effects of various parameters such as pH, concentration and time on the adsorption process were studied. The maximum adsorption capacity of cadmium at pH 8 in 5 min was 83.61 mg L−1. The adsorption isotherm was applied to the Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin–Radushkevich models. Comparing the correlation coefficient (R2), the Langmuir model was fitted well. Pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, Elivich and intra‐particle diffusion models of adsorption kinetics were explored. The pseudo‐second‐order model can better explain the adsorption kinetics that shows adsorption being dependent on the number of active sites of the adsorbent. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
On a Novel Source Technology for Deep Aluminum Diffusion for Silicon Power Electronics
Authors: Rattmann Gudrun , Pichler Peter , Erlbacher Tobias
Published: June 2019

For the realization of high breakdown voltages in power electronics, a low‐cost technology is developed, which allows the deep diffusion of aluminum from a physically deposited source. The approach requires only standard process steps that are already established in the manufacturing of silicon power devices. The sheet concentration of the diffusion profiles exceeds, with 8  1013 cm−2, the ones of comparable implanted and annealed profiles by up to a factor of two. A full numerical analysis of the resulting profiles is provided.
Lifetime Control in Irradiated and Annealed Cz n‐Si: Role of Divacancy‐Oxygen Defects
Authors: Kras'ko Mykola , Kolosiuk Andrii , Voitovych Vasyl , Povarchuk Vasyl
Published: June 2019

The behavior of the nonequilibrium charge carrier lifetime (τ) in Czochralski‐grown (Cz) n‐Si after a low‐dose 60Co gamma or 1 MeV electron irradiation and subsequent annealing are investigated. Irradiated samples with different doping levels (free‐electron concentration n0 ≈ 1014−1016 cm−3) are isochronally annealed at temperatures between 20 and 380 °C. It is found that τ significantly decreases after annealing in the range ≈180–280 °C, and this effect is stronger in low‐resistivity n‐Si. It is shown that change in τ in the annealing range of 180–380 °C is caused by the divacancy‐oxygen (V2O) complexes. The Shockley–Read–Hall (SRH) theory is used to describe the experimental data. It is determined that the V2O formation is characterized by the activation energy of 1.24 ± 0.04 eV and the frequency factor of (1 ± 0.5) × 109 s−1, and their annealing is characterized by the activation energy of 1.54 ± 0.09 eV and the frequency factor of (2.9 ± 0.6) × 1010 s−1. The values of hole capture cross‐section (σp) by the single‐ and double‐charged acceptor states of V2O are obtained as (5 ± 2) × 10−13 and (8 ± 4) × 10−12 cm2, respectively.