bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of Hydrocarbon Nanobelts
Authors: Shi Tan‐Hao , Tong Shuo , Wang Mei‐Xiang
Published: March 2020

Linearly fused hydrocarbon nanobelts are a unique type of double‐stranded macrocycles that would serve as not only the powerful hosts in supramolecular science but also the templates to grow zig‐zag carbon nanotubes with defined diameters. Fully conjugated hydrocarbon nanobelts such as belt[n]arenes would also possess unique physical and chemical properties. Despite the importance, both fully conjugated and (partially) saturated hydrocarbon nanobelts remain largely unexplored because of the lack of cyclization methods. Reported here is the construction of nanometer sized H12‐belt[12]arenes based on the strategy to close up all fjords of resorcin[6]arene by means of six‐fold intramolecular alkylation reactions of resorcin[6]arene derivatives. All resulting H12‐belt[12]arenes produce a very similar nanobelt core structure with six benzene rings and six boat 1,4‐cyclohexadiene rings being alternately linear‐fused to give a nearly equilateral hexagonal cylinder. The average long diagonal is around 1 nm and the height of the cylinder is about 0.3 nm. The acquired H12‐belt[12]arenes would be the potential precursors to various hydrocarbon nanobelts including fully conjugated belt[12]arenes.
Fabrication of Pascal‐triangle Lattice of Proteins by Inducing Ligand Strategy
Authors: Liu Rongying , Kochovski Zdravko , Li Long , Yin Yue‐wen , Yang Jing , Yang Guang , Tao Guoqing , Xu Anqiu , Zhang Ensong , Ding Hong‐ming , Lu Yan , Chen Guosong , Jiang Ming
Published: March 2020

A protein Pascal triangle has been constructed as new type of supramolecular architecture by using the inducing ligand strategy that we previously developed for protein assemblies. Although mathematical studies on this famous geometry have a long history, no work on such Pascal triangles fabricated from native proteins has been reported so far due to their structural complexity. In this work, by carefully tuning the specific interactions between the native protein building block WGA and the inducing ligand R‐SL, a 2D Pascal‐triangle lattice with three types of triangular voids has been assembled. Moreover, a 3D crystal structure was obtained based on the 2D Pascal triangles. The distinctive carbohydrate binding sites of WGA and the intralayer as well as interlayer dimerization of RhB was the key to facilitate nanofabrication in solution. This strategy may be applied to prepare and explore various sophisticated assemblies based on native proteins.
CYP505E3: A Novel Self‐Sufficient ω‐7 In‐Chain Hydroxylase
Authors: Maseme Mpeyake Jacob , Pennec Alizé , van Marwijk Jacqueline , Opperman Diederik Johannes , Smit Martha Sophia
Published: March 2020

The self‐sufficient cytochrome P450 monooxygenase CYP505E3 from Aspergillus terreus catalyzes the regioselective in‐chain hydroxylation of alkanes, fatty alcohols, and fatty acids at the ω‐7 position. It is the first reported P450 to give regioselective in‐chain ω‐7 hydroxylation of C10–C16 n‐alkanes, thereby enabling the one step biocatalytic synthesis of rare alcohols such as 5‐dodecanol and 7‐tetradecanol. It shows more than 70 % regioselectivity for the eighth carbon from one methyl terminus, and displays remarkably high activity towards decane (TTN≈8000) and dodecane (TTN≈2000). CYP505E3 can be used to synthesize the high‐value flavour compound δ‐dodecalactone via two routes: 1) conversion of dodecanoic acid into 5‐hydroxydodecanoic acid (24 % regioselectivity), which at low pH lactonises to δ‐dodecalactone, and 2) conversion of 1‐dodecanol into 1,5‐dodecanediol (55 % regioselectivity), which can be converted into δ‐dodecalactone by horse liver alcohol dehydrogenase.
Cellular AND Gates: Synergistic Recognition to Boost Selective Uptake of Polymeric Nanoassemblies
Authors: Gao Jingjing , Wu Peidong , Fernandez Ann , Zhuang Jiaming , Thayumanavan S.
Published: March 2020

The development of nanoparticle‐based biomedical applications has been hampered due to undesired off‐target effects. Herein, we outline a cellular AND gate to enhance uptake selectivity, in which a nanoassembly–cell interaction is turned on, only in the concurrent presence of two different protein functions, an enzymatic reaction (alkaline phosphatase, ALP) and a ligand–protein (carbonic anhydrase IX, CA IX) binding event. Selective uptake of nanoassemblies was observed in cells that overexpress both of these proteins (unicellular AND gate). Interestingly, selective uptake can also be achieved in CA IX overexpressed cells, when cocultured with ALP overexpressed cells, where the nanoassembly presumably acts as a mediator for cell–cell communication (bicellular AND gate). This logic‐gated cellular uptake could find use in applications such as tumor imaging or theranostics.
The interplay between the fragility and mechanical properties of styrene–butadiene rubber composites with unmodified and modified sago seed shell powder
Authors: Jinitha Thulissery Velayudhan , Safna Hussan Kodakkat Parambil , Mohamed Shahin Thayyil , Purushothaman Etathil
Published: March 2020

Reinforcing rubber with natural fillers from agrarian wastes is a new area of interest in developing rubber composite technologies. Lignocellulosic material from sago seed shell is one of the important promising natural fillers having 37% cellulose used to reinforce styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) for enhancing its mechanical properties. Moreover, chemically or physically modified natural fillers play a significant role in enhancing the properties of SBR like morphological, thermal, and electrical characteristics. In this investigation, the changes encountered in molecular mobility, glassy dynamics, thermal stability, flexibility, and tensile strength of SBR on reinforcing with unmodified and modified sago seed shell powder were studied using broadband dielectric spectroscopy (BDS) in conjunction with thermogravimetric analysis, and mechanical properties. BDS has been successfully employed to investigate the relaxation phenomena and glass/rubbery transition in SBR, as well as its composites with unmodified and modified sago seed shell powder over the frequency (10−1 to 107 Hz) and wide temperature range (−100 to 150°C). Experimental data were analyzed in terms of electric modulus formalism and were suited well with the Havriliak Nigami equation. The incorporation of filler and its nature (unmodified or modified it with polyaniline, PANI) greatly influenced the morphological pattern, miscibility, and mode of interaction with the rubber matrix of SBR, which owed a path to diverse charge transport mechanism in the composites. The mechanical properties of all the composites were in good correlation with the steepness index obtained from BDS. The tensile strength, tear strength, and hardness of SBR increased slightly on loading with unmodified cellulose, whereas with modified cellulose causes substantial enhancement in its tensile strength.
Control charts based on randomized quantile residuals
Authors: Park Kayoung , Jung Dongmin , Kim Jong‐Min
Published: March 2020

In practice, quality characteristics do not always follow a normal distribution, and quality control processes sometimes generate non‐normal response outcomes, including continuous non‐normal data and discrete count data. Thus, achieving better results in such situations requires a new control chart derived from various types of response variables. This study proposes a procedure for monitoring response variables that uses control charts based on randomized quantile residuals obtained from a fitted regression model. Simulation studies demonstrate the performance of the proposed control charts under various situations. We illustrate the procedure using two real‐data examples, based on normal and negative binomial regression models, respectively. The simulation and real‐data results support our proposed procedure.
Spectrum‐effect relationship between fingerprints and hemopoietic effects of small molecular fraction of Polygoni Multiflori radix praeparata
Authors: Wang JunXing , Fan LuoDi , Hu MingHua , Ma FangLi , Qi Jin
Published: March 2020

Polygoni multiflori Radix Praeparata (PMRP) is a traditional medicine used for nourishing essence and blood in China. However, it is unclear which PMRP compounds are responsible for its hematopoietic effect. In this study, spectrum‐effect relationship was used to discovery potential hematopoietic compounds. The fingerprints of 20 PMRP batches were established by HPLC and the hematopoietic effect was determined using red blood cell, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet indexes in aplastic anemia model mice. The spectrum‐effect relationship between common peaks and hematopoietic efficacy values was established using gray relational analysis and partial least squares analysis. Spectrum‐effect relationship results showed that peaks 21 (emodin‐8‐O‐(6´‐O‐acetyl)‐β‐D‐glucoside), 15 (2, 3, 5, 4′‐tetrahydroxystilbene‐2‐O‐di‐glucoside), 16 (cis‐2,3,5,4′‐tetrahydroxy‐stilbene‐2‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside), 11 (unknown), 20(unknown, 12 (epicatechin), 29 (carboxyl emodin), and 31 (emodin) in the fingerprints were closely related to the hematopoietic effect. This work successfully established the spectrum‐effect relationship between PMRP hematopoietic effect and its fingerprints, which can be used to explain the material basis for the PMRP hematopoietic effect.
Optically Triggered Control of the Charge Carrier Density in Chemically Functionalized Graphene Field Effect Transistors
Authors: Tang Zian , George Antony , Winter Andreas , Kaiser David , Neumann Christof , Weimann Thomas , Turchanin Andrey
Published: March 2020

Field effect transistors (FETs) based on 2D materials are of great interest for applications in ultrathin electronic and sensing devices. Here we demonstrate the possibility to add optical switchability to graphene FETs (GFET) by functionalizing the graphene channel with optically switchable azobenzene molecules. The azobenzene molecules were incorporated to the GFET channel by building a van der Waals heterostructure with a carbon nanomembrane (CNM), which is used as a molecular interposer to attach the azobenzene molecules. Under exposure with 365 nm and 455 nm light, azobenzene molecules transition between cis and trans molecular conformations, respectively, resulting in a switching of the molecular dipole moment. Thus, the effective electric field acting on the GFET channel is tuned by optical stimulation and the carrier density is modulated.
Room‐Temperature Phosphorescent Platinum(II) Alkynyls with Microsecond Lifetimes Bearing a Strong‐Field Pincer Ligand
Authors: Liska Tadeas , Swetz Anna , Lai Po‐Ni , Zeller Matthias , Teets Thomas S. , Gray Thomas G.
Published: March 2020

The use of organometallic triplet emitters in organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) is motivated by the premise of efficient intersystem crossing leading to unit internal quantum efficiencies. However, since most devices are based on solid‐state components, an inherent limitation to square‐planar platinum(II) phosphors is their tendency toward aggregation‐based quenching. Here, a new class of emissive, four‐coordinate PtII species based on the bisimidazolyl carbazolide (BIMCA) ligand is introduced, which displays highly efficient, long‐lived solid‐state phosphorescence at room temperature. A set of four BIMCAPt phenyl acetylides were synthesized that emit in the green (λmax=507–540 nm) with >60 % quantum yield and millisecond lifetimes. The structures of the resulting species reveal a non‐planar structure imposed by steric clashes between BIMCA and the iodo or alkynyl co‐ligand. Ground‐state and photophysical characterization are presented. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the BIMCA ligand dominates the frontier orbitals along with the first Franck–Condon singlet and triplet excited states.
C−F Arylation of Polyfluorophenols by Means of Sigmatropic Dearomatization/Defluorination Sequence
Authors: Okamoto Koichi , Nogi Keisuke , Shimokawa Jun , Yorimitsu Hideki
Published: March 2020

Selective C−F arylation of polyfluorophenols with aryl sulfoxides has been accomplished by means of a sigmatropic dearomatization/defluorination sequence. This sequence consists of three processes: 1) interrupted Pummerer reaction to form S−O‐tethered sulfonium salt; 2) C−C‐forming [3,3] sigmatropic rearrangement with dearomatization; and 3) Zn‐mediated defluorinative rearomatization. The present biaryl construction provides a facile access to polyfluorinated biaryls that is difficult to synthesize by other methods. The synthetic utility of the strategy is clearly demonstrated by the synthesis of a fluorinated analogue of Maxipost, a potassium channel modulator.
Estimation of heterosis and combining abilities of U.S. winter wheat germplasm for hybrid development in Texas
Authors: Adhikari Anil , Ibrahim Amir M.H , Rudd Jackie C. , Baenziger P. Stephen , Sarazin Jean‐Benoit
Published: March 2020

Hybrid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) offers promises to break the yield stagnation in global wheat productivity as a result of heterosis. But, for this promise to be realized, the level of heterosis must be adequate. To test this, elite winter wheat lines from the breeding programs of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) and Texas A&M University (TAMU) were crossed in a 25‐by‐25 full‐diallel design using a chemical hybridizing agent (CHA) to produce experimental hybrids. These hybrids were planted in a modified augmented design with commercial checks and parents at McGregor, TX, in 2016 (n = 612) and Greenville and Bushland, TX, in 2017 (n = 470) to evaluate for yield heterosis and combining ability. A subset of hybrids (n = 333) were repeated between years. The effect of field heterogeneity in grain yield was corrected by spatial modelling in ASReml‐R. Commercial heterosis ranged from −78.3 to 20.4% in 2016 and −32.9 to 6.2% in 2017. High‐parent heterosis (HPH) ranged from −70.4 to 54.3% in 2016 and −26.9 to 29.2% in 2017. General combining ability (GCA) variance was significantly higher than zero, whereas specific combining ability (SCA) variance was not. Significant maternal effect was identified in some crosses tested by computing reciprocal effects between crosses and estimating variances. This indicates that most of the heterosis is due to additive rather than dominance effect. These results suggest exploitation of GCA for higher yield while underscoring the need for development of heterotic pools to maximize SCA and dominance effects.
Gene mapping and candidate gene analysis ofmulti‐grains 1(Mg1) in rice
Authors: Zhang Ting , You Jing , Zeng Xiaoqin , Yu Guoling , Zhang Yi , Li Yidan , Ye Li , Yao Wanyue , Tu Yujie , Ling Yinghua , Yao Hesheng , He Guanghua , Li Yunfeng
Published: March 2020

As the basic unit of rice (Oryza sativaL.) inflorescence, the spikelet has a profound influence on grain size, weight, and yield. However, the molecular mechanism that underlies the development of spikelets has never been fully elucidated. In this study, we characterized a rice spikelet mutant,multi‐grains 1(mg1), which was derived from treatment of ‘Xinong 1B’ with ethyl methanesulfonate. In themg1mutant, the spikelet developed two florets with an extra lemma‐like organ and an increased number of inner floral organs. Notably, the spikelet could produce multi‐grains. These phenotypes reflect the considerable potential of usingmg1as a means of increasing rice yield. Genetic analysis revealed that themg1phenotype is controlled by a single recessive gene. TheMG1gene was mapped to the interval between simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers RM20754 and RM494 on chromosome 6 within a physical region of 121.57 kb. Sequencing analysis identified a single‐nucleotide substitution from G to A withinOs06g0717200(which corresponds toFLORAL ORGAN NUMBER 1[FON1]), causing an amino acid mutation of Gly‐869 to Asp‐869 in themg1mutant. This finding suggests thatMG1may be a novel allele ofFON1.MG1is involved in the development of spikelet determinacy and floral organs by regulating the expression of genes associated with these characteristics. The present results detail a novel function ofMG1, which may facilitate the breeding of rice cultivars with increased numbers of grains per panicle.
Toward best practice methods for delirium biomarker studies: An international modified Delphi study
Authors: Amgarth‐Duff Ingrid , Hosie Annmarie , Caplan Gideon , Agar Meera
Published: March 2020

Background

Delirium is a serious and distressing neurocognitive condition common in people with advanced illness. The understanding of delirium pathophysiology is limited and largely hypothetical. To accelerate empirical understanding of delirium pathophysiology, robust scientific methods for conducting and reporting delirium biomarker studies are urgently needed. The aim of this study was to develop international consensus on the core elements of high‐quality delirium biomarker studies.

Methods

A three‐round modified Delphi survey was conducted from February to August 2019. Participants were international researchers experienced in conducting delirium studies from a range of settings (hospital, university, research centres). Round one commenced with open‐ended questions developed from results from a prior systematic review and the REMARK (REporting recommendations for tumour MARKer prognostic studies) checklist. Responses were qualitatively analysed, and closed statements were developed. Participants then ranked the importance of these statements using a 5‐point Likert scale in rounds 2 and 3. A priori consensus was defined as ≥70% participant agreement. Descriptive statistics for each item were computed including the mean Likert scores, SD and median participant scores.

Results

Twenty‐eight participants completed survey round one, 16 completed round two and 19 completed the final round. Consensus was achieved for a total of 60 items.

Conclusion

The Delphi survey identified items that expert researchers agreed were important in the conduct of delirium biomarker studies. These reporting items provide a strong platform for improved methodological quality and opportunities to synthesise future delirium biomarker studies.
Real‐world treatment patterns for patients with metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with immuno‐oncology therapy
Authors: Mehra Ranee , Huang Huan , Seal Brian , Tse Jenny , Shenolikar Rahul A. , Burudpakdee Chakkarin
Published: March 2020

Background

Real‐world use of immuno‐oncology (IO) therapies (nivolumab and pembrolizumab) in metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (mHNSCC) has not been well studied.

Methods

mHNSCC patients treated with an IO therapy were identified from a large US claims database from 2016 to 2017. Treatment patterns before and after initiation of IO therapy (index date) were described.

Results

Among 416 mHNSCC patients, 85% had ≥1 regimen prior to IO therapy. Ninety‐seven percent of patients initiated IO as monotherapy and 3% initiated IO combined with another systemic treatment. One hundred seventeen (28%) patients had a subsequent regimen, usually chemotherapy (n = 58, 50%) or IO monotherapy (n = 27, 23%), of which 22 patients restarted the same IO therapy and 5 switched to another IO monotherapy.

Conclusion

The majority of mHNSCC patients initiated IO as a monotherapy. Approximately half of patients with a subsequent regimen received chemotherapy and one‐fourth received IO monotherapy.
HE4 tumor marker as a predictive factor for lymphatic metastasis in endometrial cancer
Authors: Espiau Romera Andrea , Cuesta Guardiola Tatiana , Benito Vielba Marta , De Bonrostro Torralba Carlos , Coronado Martín Pluvio J. , Baquedano Mainar Laura
Published: March 2020

Endometrial cancer is the most common genital cancer in high‐resource countries. Treatment is essentially surgical, but the role of lymphadenectomy in the treatment of low‐stage and low‐grade tumors has not been defined. Although no tumor factors have been validated for use as preoperative prognostic markers of endometrial cancer at yet, human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) has received much interest as a potential diagnostic and prognostic tumor marker. Since 2008, several studies have explored its utility in the management of endometrial cancer: HE4 may be a useful preoperative prognostic marker because it is associated with lymphatic metastasis and other unfavorable factors in endometrial cancer. In addition, some studies have explored a HE4 cutoff value to classify patients according to lymph node involvement. HE4 might be beneficial as a serum marker that helps clinicians in the decision‐making algorithm for treatment of endometrial cancer, enabling them to perform individualized operations and decrease the adverse effects of unnecessary surgery.
Simultaneous determination of gastric cancer biomarkers pepsinogen PGI/PGII using element tagged immunoassay coupled with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry detection
Authors: Jiang Wencan , Sun Gongwei , Zhang Yuqing , Hu Zhian , Wen Xinyu , Men Shasha , Xing Zhi , Zhang Sichun , Huang Biao , Wang Chengbin
Published: March 2020

Objectives

In this study, a new immunoassay for the simultaneous determination of pepsinogen I (PGI) and pepsinogen II (PGII) in serum based on element labeling strategy coupled with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) detection was proposed.

Methods

The sandwich‐type immunoassay was used to simultaneously detect PGI and PGII in serum. PGI and PGII were captured by anti‐PGI and anti‐PGII antibody immobilized on the magnetic beads and then banded with Eu3+ labeled anti‐PGI detection antibody and Sm3+ labeled anti‐PGII detection antibody, followed by ICP‐MS detection.

Results

The linear correlation coefficient (R2) of PGI and PGII standard curves was .9938 and .9911, with the dynamic range of 0‐200 ng/mL and 0‐60 ng/mL, respectively. The limit of detection for PGI and PGII was 1.8 ng/mL and 0.3 ng/mL, respectively. The average recovery was 101.41% ± 6.74% for PGI and 101.47% ± 4.20% for PGII. Good correlations were obtained between the proposed method and CLIA (r = .9588 for PGI, r = .9853 for PGII).

Conclusions

We established a mass spectrometry‐based immunoassay for the simultaneous detection of PGI and PGII in a single analysis. The element tagged immunoassay coupled with ICP‐MS detection has high sensitivity, accuracy, and specificity in clinical serum sample analysis.
Alexithymia and emotion regulation in patients with Raynaud's disease
Authors: Fábián Balázs , Csiki Zoltán , Bugán Antal
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Besides cold, emotional distress is the most important trigger of Raynaud's disease (RD) attacks, although little is known about the factors that contribute to the effectiveness of coping with emotional distress. The aim of the present study was to explore alexithymia and emotion regulation and their relationship with depression and quality of life among patients with RD.

Methods

Total of 110 patients (mean age 53.65; 96 women) with RD completed self‐report measures.

Results

Alexithymia was associated with adverse emotional regulation skills, depression, and quality of life impairment. Detailed analysis revealed that there are significant differences between alexithymic and nonalexithymic patients in emotion regulation.

Conclusion

Alexithymia is a significant factor affecting health status in RD since it plays a significant role in emotion regulation. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to improve treatment outcome by identifying patients with high alexithymia, and to improve their emotional regulation skills.
Artificial neural network tuned PID controller for LFC investigation including distributed generation
Authors: Debnath Manoj K. , Agrawal Ramachandra , Tripathy Smruti Rekha , Choudhury Shreeram
Published: March 2020

To facilitate the frequency regulation, here an adaptive artificial neural network (ANN) tuned proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) controller is suggested for load frequency control (LFC) investigation in a system with distributed generation (DG) resources. The various DG resources include wind turbine generators (WTG), battery energy storage system (BESS), aqua electrolyzer (AE), diesel engine generators (DEG), and fuel cell (FC). Initially, an isolated thermal generating system is considered with DG. Then an interconnected two‐area thermal power system with DG is considered for LFC analysis. The implemented PID controller parameters are achieved using two methodologies. In the first case, the PID controller parameters are tuned by a recent optimization technique known as grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA). In the second case, the PID controller parameters are tuned by an ANN. The dynamic behavior of the two categories of the system is inspected with GOA tuned PID controller and ANN tuned PID controller and it is established that ANN tuned PID controller exhibits superior performance as compared to GOA tuned PID controller in terms of time‐based performance evaluative factors such as minimum undershoots, settling time and maximum overshoots. Also, the robustness of the recommended ANN tuned PID controller is verified by applying random loading in the system.
Inter‐decadal variation of autumn rain of west China and its relationship with atmospheric circulation and sea surface temperature anomalies
Authors: Zhi Rong , Zhao Junhu , Zhou Jie , Chen Lijuan
Published: March 2020

The inter‐decadal variation of autumn rain of west China (ARWC) and its relationship with atmospheric circulation and sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) was analysed. The intensity of ARWC shows significant inter‐decadal variability. The year 1990 is one of the abrupt change points of ARWC in both the southern and northern zone, and the year 2000 is another one in the northern zone. The inter‐annual correlation between the intensity of ARWC in the northern (southern) zone and the El Niño–Southern Oscillation continuously weakens (strengthens) from 1961. The relationship between the intensity of ARWC in the northern zone and atmospheric circulation of September–October mean significantly weakens after 2000, so does the relationship with the SSTAs in the equatorial central Pacific. On the contrary, the relationship between the intensity of ARWC in the southern zone and atmospheric circulation of September–October mean significantly strengthens after 1990, so does the relationship with the east–west contrast pattern of SSTAs in the equatorial central–western Pacific. The positive phase of the east–west contrast pattern of SSTAs in the equatorial central–western Pacific (i.e., when the tropical central [western] Pacific is colder [warmer] than normal) gradually strengthening and maintaining from the preceding spring to September–October is favourable for a stronger western Pacific subtropical high, which further facilitates northwards transportation of water vapour and provides better dynamic conditions for ARWC in the southern zone by strengthening the local Hadley circulation.
Computer Modeling for Radiofrequency Bipolar Ablation Inside Ducts and Vessels: Relation Between Pullback Speed and Impedance Progress
Authors: Pérez Juan J. , Ewertowska Elżbieta , Berjano Enrique
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

Radiofrequency (RF)‐induced ablation can be carried out inside ducts and vessels by simultaneously dragging a bipolar catheter while applying RF power. Our objective was to characterize the relation between pullback speed, impedance progress, and temperature distribution.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We built a numerical model including a bipolar catheter, which is dragged inside a duct while RF power is applied between a pair of electrodes. The model solved a triple‐coupled electrical, thermal, and mechanical problem. Lesions were assessed by an Arrhenius model. The numerical model's thermal and electrical characteristics were chosen to obtain the same initial impedance value as in the experiments: 560 Ω at 16°C (sample temperature).

Results

The catheter initially remained still, and the impedance was falling during the application of power. When pullback speed was too slow (<0.4 mm/s) impedance continued to drop when the catheter began to move, creating deep lesions, overheating and impedance roll‐off, while at the faster speed (0.4–1.0 mm/s) impedance first rose slightly and then reached a plateau. There was a strong inverse relation between pullback speed and lesion depth. The hottest point was always around the second electrode, creating a kind of hot wake.

Conclusions

These findings confirm the close relationship between pullback speed and impedance progress, and suggest that the latter factor could be used to guide the procedure and achieve effective and safe ablations along the inner path of a duct or vessel. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cohen forcing and inner models
Authors: Reitz Jonas
Published: March 2020

Given an inner model and a regular cardinal κ, we consider two alternatives for adding a subset to κ by forcing: the Cohen poset Add(κ, 1), and the Cohen poset of the inner model . The forcing from W will be at least as strong as the forcing from V (in the sense that forcing with the former adds a generic for the latter) if and only if the two posets have the same cardinality. On the other hand, a sufficient condition is established for the poset from V to fail to be as strong as that from W. The results are generalized to , and to iterations of Cohen forcing where the poset at each stage comes from an arbitrary intermediate inner model.
Redox regulation by SOD2 modulates colorectal cancer tumorigenesis through AMPK‐mediated energy metabolism
Authors: Zhou Chen , Lyu Li‐hua , Miao Hui‐kai , Bahr Tyler , Zhang Qiong‐ying , Liang Ting , Zhou Huai‐bin , Chen Guo‐rong , Bai Yidong
Published: March 2020

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy. Many reports have implicated aberrant mitochondrial activity in the progression of CRC, with particular emphasis on the dysregulation of redox signaling and oxidative stress. In this study, we focused on manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD/SOD2), a key antioxidant enzyme, which maintains intracellular redox homeostasis. Current literature presents conflicting mechanisms for how SOD2 influences tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Here, we explored the role of SOD2 in CRC specifically. We found high levels of SOD2 expression in CRC tissues. We carried out a series of experiments to determine whether knockdown of SOD2 expression in CRC cell lines would reverse features of tumorigenesis. We found that reduced SOD2 expression decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion activity in CRC cells. Results from an additional series of experiments on mitochondrial function implicated a dual role for SOD2 in promoting CRC progression. First, proper level of SOD2 helped CRC cells maintain mitochondrial function by disposal of superoxide (O2.−). Second, over‐expression of SOD2 induced H2O2‐mediated tumorigenesis by upregulating AMPK and glycolysis. Our results indicate that SOD2 may promote the occurrence and development of CRC by regulating the energy metabolism mediated by AMPK signaling pathways.
Evaluation of combined therapeutic effects of hydrogen sulfide donor sodium hydrogen sulfide and phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitor tadalafil on erectile dysfunction in a partially bladder outlet obstructed rat model
Authors: Yilmaz‐Oral Didem , Kaya‐Sezginer Ecem , Oztekin Cetin Volkan , Bayatli Nur , Lokman Utku , Gur Serap
Published: March 2020

Aims

To evaluate the impacts of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor, sodium hydrogen sulfide (NaHS), and phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitor (PDE5i), tadalafil per se and their combination treatment on partial bladder outlet obstruction (PBOO)‐induced erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

Sprague‐Dawley rats were equally divided into five groups: (a) sham‐operated control; (b) PBOO; (c) PBOO‐treated with NaHS (5.6 mg/kg/day, ip); (d) PBOO‐treated with tadalafil (2 mg/kg/day, oral); and (e) PBOO‐treated with combination of NaHS and tadalafil. The obstruction was created by urethral ligation for 6 weeks. In vivo erectile responses, in vitro relaxant and contractile responses in penile tissue as well as protein expression of nitric oxide synthases (NOS), H2S synthesis enzymes, oxidative stress, hypoxia, fibrosis markers, and the smooth muscle/collagen ratio and apoptosis were analyzed.

Results

Combined treatment entirely returned increased bladder mass, reduced erectile responses, relaxation responses to acetylcholine, and electrical field stimulation in obstructed rats, while partial amelioration was observed after mono‐treatment. Decreased neuronal NOS and 3‐mercaptopiruvate transferase enzyme expressions in penile tissue from obstructed rats were also entirely restored by the combined treatment. Mono‐treatment partially improved increased hypoxia, oxidative stress, fibrosis markers, decreased smooth muscle mass, and H2S levels, while combined therapy completely recovered.

Conclusions

The combination therapy with H2S donor and PDE5i had positive effects on erectile responses through the improvement of ischemia‐induced morphological and functional penile alterations in obstruction. H2S and NO may likely play a synergistic role in the regulation of erectile function and have constructive effects on clinical outcomes in male patients with ED and benign prostatic hyperplasia/lower urinary tract symptoms.
Investigation of the inflow effect on weld lines morphology and strength in injection molding of short glass fiber reinforced polypropylene
Authors: Scantamburlo Andrea , Sorgato Marco , Lucchetta Giovanni
Published: March 2020

In parts manufactured by injection molding, the regions affected by the presence of a weld line show worse mechanical properties, especially in the case of fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics. This is mainly due to the unfavorable reinforcement orientation in the proximity of the weld line. The position and shape of a weld line, which develops where two different flows converge during the mold filling phase, can be modified by generating a pressure unbalance between flow fronts during the packing phase. This phenomenon is also known as “inflow” in the literature. In this work, the inflow phenomenon was obtained using side features located near the weld line. Its effect on weld line morphology and fibers orientation was investigated. The experimental results show that the inflow can modify the weld line position and shape. Furthermore, it can reorient the fibers in the weld line region, increasing the load at break and stiffness of the weld line by 19% and 15%, respectively. These effects were numerically modeled with a maximum error of 4%.
The effects of ginger supplementation on markers of inflammatory and oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Jalali Mohammad , Mahmoodi Marzieh , Moosavian Seyedeh Parisa , Jalali Ronak , Ferns Gordon , Mosallanezhad Abdolhamid , Imanieh Mohammad Hadi , Mosallanezhad Zahra
Published: March 2020

The present systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of ginger supplementation on markers of inflammatory and oxidative stress. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched to identify relevant clinical trials evaluating the effects of ginger on serum CRP (C‐reactive protein), TNF‐α (tumor necrosis factor‐alpha), IL‐6 (interleukin‐6), PGE2 (prostaglandin E2), TAC (total antioxidant capacity), and MDA (malondialdehyde) from inception up to September 2019. Mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were pooled using a random‐effects model. Potential publication bias was assessed using visual inspection of funnel plot and Egger's weighted regression tests. After excluding irrelevant records, 20 full‐text articles that included 25 separate studies were included to the meta‐analysis. Pooled results of this study indicated a statistically significant effect of ginger on serum CRP, TNF‐α, IL‐6, TAC, and MDA levels following ginger supplementation in compared to the controls. Also, the effects of ginger on serum PGE2 was marginally significant. Moreover, the high heterogeneity was disappeared in subgroup analysis performed by age, duration, dosage, and quality. This current analysis indicates that ginger supplementation has a significant effects on serum inflammatory and oxidative stress markers.
Local Probes of Graphene Lattice Dynamics
Authors: Kröger Jörg , Néel Nicolas , Wehling Tim Oliver , Brandbyge Mads
Published: March 2020

Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy with a scanning tunneling microscope is a powerful method to excite and detect vibrational quanta with atomic resolution. The focus of this review article is on the local spectroscopy of graphene phonons. The experimental observation of their spectroscopic signatures together with theoretical modeling highlight the importance of the graphene–surface as well as the graphene–tip hybridization, the electron–phonon coupling strength, phonon‐mediated tunneling, local doping profiles, and the phonon density of state for the measured signal. Meanwhile, a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms has been attained and justifies an overview on available findings.
Diagnostic accuracy of postmortem ultrasound vs postmortem 1.5‐T MRI for non‐invasive perinatal autopsy
Authors: Shelmerdine S. C. , Sebire N. J. , Arthurs O. J.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To determine the diagnostic accuracy of postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (PM‐MRI) and postmortem ultrasound (PM‐US) for perinatal autopsy in the same patient cohort, and to determine whether PM‐US can provide the same anatomical information as PM‐MRI.

Methods

In this prospective, 5‐year (July 2014–July 2019) single‐center study, we performed 1.5‐T PM‐MRI and PM‐US in an unselected cohort of perinatal deaths. The diagnostic accuracies of both modalities were calculated, using autopsy as the reference standard. As a secondary objective, the concordance rates between the two imaging modalities for the overall main diagnosis and for five anatomical regions (brain, spine, thorax, heart and abdomen) were calculated.

Results

During the study period, 136 cases underwent both PM‐US and PM‐MRI, of which 88 (64.7%) also underwent autopsy. There was no significant difference in the rates of concordance with autopsy between the two modalities for overall diagnosis (PM‐US, 86.4% (95% CI, 77.7–92.0%) vs PM‐MRI, 88.6% (95% CI, 80.3–93.7%)) or in the sensitivities and specificities for individual anatomical regions. There were more non‐diagnostic PM‐US than PM‐MRI examinations for the brain (22.8% vs 3.7%) and heart (14.7% vs 5.1%). If an ‘imaging‐only’ autopsy had been performed, PM‐US would have achieved the same diagnosis as 1.5‐T PM‐MRI in 86.8% (95% CI, 80.0–91.5%) of cases, with the highest rates of agreement being for spine (99.3% (95% CI, 95.9–99.9%)) and cardiac (97.3% (95% CI, 92.4–99.1%)) findings and the lowest being for brain diagnoses (85.2% (95% CI, 76.9–90.8%)).

Conclusion

Although there were fewer non‐diagnostic cases using PM‐MRI than for PM‐US, the high concordance rate for overall diagnosis suggests that PM‐US could be used for triaging cases when PM‐MRI access is limited or unavailable. © 2020 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Heterogeneity of the peat profile and its role in unsaturated sodium chloride rise at field and laboratory scales
Authors: Balliston Nicole E. , Price Jonathan S.
Published: March 2020

Resource extraction in Canada's boreal ecozone increases the risk of contaminant release into the area's extensive bog and fen peatlands. Lateral spreading, then upwards transport of solutes into the vadose zone of these moss‐dominated ecosystems, could be toxic to vegetation. To evaluate the rate and character of contaminant rise in a subarctic bog, vadose zone‐specific conductance and water content were measured in four hummocks ∼5 m downslope of a 45‐d 300‐mg L−1 NaCl release. Four 30‐cm‐deep hummock peat mesocosms were extracted adjacent to the release site for an unsaturated evaporation‐driven NaCl breakthrough experiment and subsequent parameterization. The field rate of solute accumulation was slower in near‐surface (0–5 cm) peat, where low water contents limited pore connectivity. Solute accumulation was reduced by downward flushing by rain, though this was lesser in near surface moss where solute remained held in small disconnected pores. In the laboratory, Cl− rise reached the 15‐cm depth in all mesocosms by Day 65. Sodium rise was 2.2 times slower, likely due to adsorption to the peat matrix. Rates of upwards solute movement were highly variable; the highest rates occurred in the mesocosm with small but hydrologically conductive pores near the surface, and the lowest occurred where vascular roots disrupted the physical structure of the peat. This research demonstrates that solute spilled into a bog peatland is likely to rise and be retained in the vadose zone. However, hydraulic and solute transport behaviors are sensitive to the vertical structure of peat, underscoring the need for extensive sampling and parameter characterization.
Long‐Term Outcomes After Open Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Reite Andreas , Søreide Kjetil , Kvaløy Jan Terje , Vetrhus Morten
Published: March 2020

Background

Early mortality in ruptured abdominal aneurysm (rAAA) is high, but data on long‐term outcome are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the long‐term outcome in survivors after open surgery for rAAA in well‐defined population.

Methods

This is a population‐based, observational long‐term follow‐up (beyond 30‐day mortality) study of patients surgically treated for rAAA from 2000 through 2014. Long‐term survival was analysed using Kaplan–Meier estimates and compared to the general population by analyses of relative survival.

Results

Out of 178 patients operated for rAAA, 95 patients (55%) either died in the perioperative period, were referred from other hospitals or were lost to follow‐up (two patients). Altogether 83 patients were eligible for long‐term outcomes: 72 men and 11 women. Estimated median crude survival time was 6.5 years [95% confidence interval (CI) 4.8–8.2]. Men had a median survival of 7.3 years (95% CI 5.1–9.4) versus 5.4 years in females (95% CI 3.5–7.3) (P = 0.082). Reinterventions during follow‐up occurred in 31 (37%). Relative survival demonstrated a slightly higher risk of death in the rAAA population compared to the general age‐ and gender‐matched population. Age, but not comorbidities, had a significant influence on long‐term survival.

Conclusion

For survivors beyond 30 days after surgery for rAAA, long‐term survival compares well to that of an age‐ and sex‐matched population. A high frequency of cardiovascular comorbidities did not seem to affect long‐term survival.
Stratospheric Ozone-induced Cloud Radiative Effects on Antarctic Sea Ice
Authors: Xia Yan , Hu Yongyun , Liu Jiping , Huang Yi , Xie Fei , Lin Jintai
Published: March 2020

Recent studies demonstrate that the Antarctic Ozone Hole has important influences on Antarctic sea ice. While most of these works have focused on effects associated with atmospheric and oceanic dynamic processes caused by stratospheric ozone changes, here we show that stratospheric ozone-induced cloud radiative effects also play important roles in causing changes in Antarctic sea ice. Our simulations demonstrate that the recovery of the Antarctic Ozone Hole causes decreases in clouds over Southern Hemisphere (SH) high latitudes and increases in clouds over the SH extratropics. The decrease in clouds leads to a reduction in downward infrared radiation, especially in austral autumn. This results in cooling of the Southern Ocean surface and increasing Antarctic sea ice. Surface cooling also involves ice-albedo feedback. Increasing sea ice reflects solar radiation and causes further cooling and more increases in Antarctic sea ice.
A large population-based investigation into the genetics of susceptibility to gastrointestinal infections and the link between gastrointestinal infections and mental illness
Authors: Nudel Ron , Appadurai Vivek , Schork Andrew J. , Buil Alfonso , Bybjerg-Grauholm Jonas , Børglum Anders D. , Daly Mark J. , Mors Ole , Hougaard David M. , Mortensen Preben Bo , Werge Thomas , Nordentoft Merete , Thompson Wesley K. , Benros Michael E.
Published: March 2020

Gastrointestinal infections can be life threatening, but not much is known about the host’s genetic contribution to susceptibility to gastrointestinal infections or the latter’s association with psychiatric disorders. We utilized iPSYCH, a genotyped population-based sample of individuals born between 1981 and 2005 comprising 65,534 unrelated Danish individuals (45,889 diagnosed with mental disorders and 19,645 controls from a random population sample) in which all individuals were linked utilizing nationwide population-based registers to estimate the genetic contribution to susceptibility to gastrointestinal infections, identify genetic variants associated with gastrointestinal infections, and examine the link between gastrointestinal infections and psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. The SNP heritability of susceptibility to gastrointestinal infections ranged from 3.7% to 6.4% on the liability scale. Significant correlations were found between gastrointestinal infections and the combined group of mental disorders (OR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.82–2.4, P = 1.87 × 10–25). Correlations with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and depression were also significant. We identified a genome-wide significant locus associated with susceptibility to gastrointestinal infections (OR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.08–1.18, P = 2.9 × 10–8), where the top SNP was an eQTL for the ABO gene. The risk allele was associated with reduced ABO expression, providing, for the first time, genetic evidence to support previous studies linking the O blood group to gastrointestinal infections. This study also highlights the importance of integrative work in genetics, psychiatry, infection, and epidemiology on the road to translational medicine.
Diagnosis of foreign body aspiration with ultralow-dose CT using a tin filter: a comparison study
Authors: Gordon Lena , Nowik Patrik , Mobini Kesheh Shahla , Lidegran Marika , Diaz Sandra
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Suspected airway foreign body aspiration (FBA) is a common event in paediatric emergency units, especially in children under 3 years of age. It can be a life-threatening event if not diagnosed promptly and accurately. The purpose of this study is to compare the diagnostic performance of an ultralow-dose CT (DLP of around 1 mGycm) with that of conventional radiographic methods (fluoroscopy and chest radiography of the airways) in the diagnosis of FBA children’s airways.

Methods

Retrospective cross-sectional study. Data from 136 children were collected: 75 were examined with conventional radiographic methods and 61 with ultralow-dose CT. Effective doses were compared using independent t tests. The results of bronchoscopy, if performed, were used in creating contingency 2 × 2 tables to assess the diagnostic performance between modalities. An extra triple reading of all images was applied for this purpose.

Results

The effective doses used in the ultralow-dose CT examinations were lower compared with those in conventional methods (p < 0.001). The median dose for CT was 0.04 mSv compared with 0.1 mSv for conventional methods. Sensitivity and specificity were higher for ultralow-dose CT than those for conventional methods (100% and 98% versus 33% and 96%) as were the positive and negative predicted values (90% and 100% versus 60% and 91%).

Conclusion

Ultralow-dose CT can be used as the imaging of choice in the diagnosis of airway FBA in emergency settings, thereby avoiding concerns about radiation doses and negative bronchoscopy outcomes.