bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and early results after combining laparoscopic harvest of double gastroepiploic lymph node flap and active physiotherapy for lower extremity lymphedema
Authors: Maruccia Michele , Pezzolla Angela , Nacchiero Eleonora , Dicillo Patrizia , Macchia Laura , Fiore Piero , Giudice Giuseppe , Elia Rossella
Published: October 2019

Background

Lymph node flap transfer has gradually gained popularity for the treatment of upper and lower limb lymphedema. The aim of this study is to present the outcomes of an integrated treatment protocol based on double gastroepiploic lymph node flap (DG‐VLN) and active physiotherapy in patients affected by Stage II and III lower extremity lymphedema.

Methods

All Stage II and III lower limb lymphedema patients operated between September 2015 and December 2017 were retrospectively identified and only those treated with an integrated approach of DG‐VLN flap and active physiotherapy were included. Outcomes were assessed clinically with limb circumference measurement and radiologically with lymphoscintigraphy. Flap viability was evaluated through indocyanine green lymphography. Lymphedema related quality of life was evaluated preop and at 1 year follow up through LYMQOL questionnaire.

Results

Sixteen patients met inclusion criteria. Mean follow up was 26.2 months. Significant reduction in lower limb volume was observed for all patients from pre to post intervention. At 3 months of follow up, the mean CRR was 42.4% at below knee (BK) level and 25.4% at above knee (AK) level. At 12 months of follow up, the mean CRR was 58.3% at BK level (p = .001*) and 43.4% at AK level (p < .04*). LYMQOL metrics showed significantly better scores in all domains.

Conclusions

Patients with lower limb lymphedema can benefit from combined DG‐VLN flap and active physiotherapy, as this approach seem to fasten the onset of improvement and to have a positive impact on patients' quality of life.
Compact circularly polarized metaresonator‐enabled deca‐band antenna
Authors: Alam Maksud , Mainuddin  , Kanaujia Binod , Beg Mirza , Kumar Sachin
Published: October 2019

In this article, a circularly polarized small‐sized deca‐band monopole antenna is proposed and investigated. The proposed antenna consists of gun‐shaped monopole radiator and split‐ring resonator (SRR) array‐loaded partial ground plane present on the top and bottom sides of the substrate, respectively. The antenna is excited by a microstrip line feed and in order to get varied multiband operation with circular polarization, several unique configurations of SRRs are employed as metaresonators. Using the approach of combining resonances of metaresonators and monopole radiator, dual‐, triple‐, hexa‐, and deca‐band operations can be achieved. The permittivity and permeability of the composite metaresonator structure made of SRRs are extracted to illustrate the working principle of the designed multiband antenna. The proposed multiband antenna covers long‐term evolution, WLAN, WiMAX, bluetooth, satellite digital audio radio system (SDARS), radio altimeter, and satellite communication C‐band applications, on a single multifunctional device, much needed in the fast‐growing wireless industry. The antenna is fabricated on a 40 × 47 × 1.5748 mm3 RT Duroid 5880 substrate, and simulations were carried out with the help of the tool Ansys HFSS. The simulated and measured results are in good agreement.
Acute enhancement of necrotic radio‐frequency ablation lesions in left atrium and pulmonary vein ostia in swine model with non‐contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted MRI
Authors: Guttman Michael A. , Tao Susumu , Fink Sarah , Tunin Rick , Schmidt Ehud J. , Herzka Daniel A. , Halperin Henry R. , Kolandaivelu Aravindan
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To evaluate non‐contrast‐enhanced MRI of acute radio‐frequency ablation (RFA) lesions in the left atrium (LA) and pulmonary vein (PV) ostia. The goal is to provide a method for discrimination between necrotic (permanent) lesions and reversible injury, which is associated with recurrence after treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Methods

Fifteen normal swine underwent RFA around the right‐superior PV ostia. Electrical pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was verified by electro‐anatomic mapping (EAM) and pacing. MRI was carried out using a 3D respiratory‐gated T1‐weighted long inversion time (TWILITE) sequence without contrast agent. Key settings were: inversion time 700 ms, triggering over 2 cardiac cycles, pixel size 1.1 mm3. Contrast‐enhanced imaging and T2‐weighted imaging were carried out for comparison. Six animals were sacrificed on ablation day for TTC‐stained gross pathology, 9 animals were sacrificed after 2–3 mo after repeat EAM and MRI. Image intensity ratio (IIR) was used to measure lesion enhancement, and gross pathology was used to validate image enhancement patterns and compare lesion widths.

Results

RFA lesions exhibited unambiguous enhancement in acute TWILITE imaging (IIR = 2.34 ± 0.49 at 1.5T), and the enhancement patterns corresponded well with gross pathology. Lesion widths in MRI correlated well with gross pathology (R2 = 0.84), with slight underestimation by 0.9 ± 0.5 mm. Lesion enhancement subsided chronically.

Conclusion

TWILITE imaging allowed acute detection of permanent RFA lesions in swine LA and PV ostia, without the need for contrast agent. Lesion enhancement pattern showed good correspondence to gross pathology and was well visualized by volume rendering. This method may provide valuable intra‐ or post‐procedural assessment of RFA treatment.
"Für Fakeaufbauten bin ich nicht zu haben" ‐‐ Interview mit dem Laborgerätesammler Rainer Friedrich
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: October 2019

Wenn Chemiefirmen und Forschungsinstitute ihre Keller ausräumen, sieht Rainer Friedrich genauer hin und rettet Nützliches und Schönes. Inzwischen füllt seine Sammlung jahrzehnte‐ bis jahrhundertealter Laborgeräte mehrere Container.
Heron 8: Reaktive Intermediate und ungewöhnliche Moleküle
Authors: Braunschweig Holger
Published: October 2019

Vom Reef zum Rock – erstmals fand die Heron Island Conference nicht auf der namengebenden Insel im südlichen Great Barrier Reef statt, sondern am Fuß des Ayers Rock (Uluru) im australischen Northern Territory. Die Tagungsserie begann im Jahr 1991 und behält seitdem ihre Thematik bei. Dieses Jahr fand die sechstägige Konferenz im Juni statt und hatte mehr als 50 aktive Teilnehmer aus zehn Ländern – die meisten, nach den gastgebenden Australiern, kamen aus Deutschland und den USA.
Bakterien fressen kein Plastik
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: October 2019

Wie eine Übersichtsstudie zeigt, helfen Mikroorganismen nicht dabei, Mikroplastik abzubauen.
Single‐ and double‐Diffusion encoding MRI for studying ex vivo apparent axon diameter distribution in spinal cord white matter
Authors: Anaby Debbie , Morozov Darya , Seroussi Inbar , Hametner Simon , Sochen Nir , Cohen Yoram
Published: October 2019

Mapping average axon diameter (AAD) and axon diameter distribution (ADD) in neuronal tissues non‐invasively is a challenging task that may have a tremendous effect on our understanding of the normal and diseased central nervous system (CNS). Water diffusion is used to probe microstructure in neuronal tissues, however, the different water populations and barriers that are present in these tissues turn this into a complex task. Therefore, it is not surprising that recently we have witnessed a burst in the development of new approaches and models that attempt to obtain, non‐invasively, detailed microstructural information in the CNS. In this work, we aim at challenging and comparing the microstructural information obtained from single diffusion encoding (SDE) with double diffusion encoding (DDE) MRI. We first applied SDE and DDE MR spectroscopy (MRS) on microcapillary phantoms and then applied SDE and DDE MRI on an ex vivo porcine spinal cord (SC), using similar experimental conditions. The obtained diffusion MRI data were fitted by the same theoretical model, assuming that the signal in every voxel can be approximated as the superposition of a Gaussian‐diffusing component and a series of restricted components having infinite cylindrical geometries. The diffusion MRI results were then compared with histological findings. We found a good agreement between the fittings and the experimental data in white matter (WM) voxels of the SC in both diffusion MRI methods. The microstructural information and apparent AADs extracted from SDE MRI were found to be similar or somewhat larger than those extracted from DDE MRI especially when the diffusion time was set to 40 ms. The apparent ADDs extracted from SDE and DDE MRI show reasonable agreement but somewhat weaker correspondence was observed between the diffusion MRI results and histology. The apparent subtle differences between the microstructural information obtained from SDE and DDE MRI are briefly discussed.
Effects of intradialytic resistance exercises on physical performance, nutrient intake and quality of life among haemodialysis people: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhou Wenqin , Sun Qiuzi , Zhai Yingying , Zhang Ying , Su Hui , Wang Zichun
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The aim of this systematic reviews was to synthesize the current studies for the effectiveness of intradialytic resistance exercises with usual care on HD people.

Design

Meta‐analysis of randomized controlled studies.

Methods

A systematic search of seven electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, WanFang, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and SINOMED, was systematically searched up to May 2018. The reference lists of previously reported systematic review were also checked. Pooled analysis was used to determine effection of intradialytic resistance exercises for haemodialysis people. Physical performance, nutrient intake and quality of life were explored, by comparing the association between effect sizes.

Results

Fourteen studies of 594 people were included. Compared with control groups, intradialytic resistance exercises significantly improve physical performance included 6‐min walk test, sit‐to‐stand 30 and grip strength. However, no significant improvements were found in nutrient intakes such as dietary protein intake and quality of life.
Institutional delivery service use and associated factors among women who delivered during the last 2 years in Dallocha town, SNNPR, Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Masresha , Fite Robera Olana , Taye Ayanos , Belachew Tefera
Published: October 2019

Aim

To determine the institutional delivery service use and identify factors associated among women who delivered during the last two years in Dallocha town.

Design

A community‐based cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The study was conducted from 10 March–10 April 2016. A total of 411 study participants were selected by using systematic sampling method. The source population was all reproductive age group mothers. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression was conducted.

Results

Institutional delivery was 304 (74%). Factors associated with increased likelihood of institutional delivery were owning a radio or television, making more than four antenatal care visits, knowing at least one maternity service advantage. Not knowing about at least one benefit institutional delivery decreased the likelihood of institutional delivery.

Conclusion

Three‐quarters of the mothers delivered at the health institution. Accordingly, promotion of antenatal care follow‐up, in‐service training of health professionals and health education is recommended.
The Impact of Timing of Exercise Initiation on Weight Loss: An 18‐Month Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Catenacci Victoria A. , Ostendorf Danielle M. , Pan Zhaoxing , Bing Kristen , Wayland Liza T. , Seyoum Emmanuel , Stauffer Brian L. , Phelan Suzanne , Creasy Seth A. , Caldwell Ann E. , Wyatt Holly R. , Bessesen Daniel H. , Melanson Edward L.
Published: October 2019

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of timing of exercise initiation on weight loss within a behavioral weight loss program.

Methods

Adults with overweight or obesity (N = 170; age 18‐55 years; BMI 25‐42 kg/m2; 83.5% women) were enrolled in an 18‐month behavioral weight loss program consisting of a reduced‐calorie diet, exercise, and group‐based support. The standard group (STD) received a supervised exercise program (progressing to 300 min/wk of moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise) during months 0 to 6. The sequential group (SEQ) was asked to refrain from changing exercise during months 0 to 6 and received the supervised exercise program during months 7 to 12. On completion of supervised exercise, both groups were instructed to continue 300 min/wk of moderate‐intensity exercise for the study duration.

Results

At 6 months, the STD group exhibited greater reductions in body weight (−8.7 ± 0.7 kg) compared with the SEQ group (−6.9 ± 0.6 kg; P = 0.047). Between 6 and 18 months, the STD group regained more weight (2.5 ± 0.8 kg vs. 0.0 ± 0.8 kg; P = 0.02). At 18 months, there were no between‐group differences in changes in weight (STD: −6.9 ± 1.2 kg; SEQ: −7.9 ± 1.2 kg), fat mass, lean mass, physical activity, or attrition.

Conclusions

Both immediate and delayed exercise initiation within a behavioral weight loss program resulted in clinically meaningful weight loss at 18 months. Thus, timing of exercise initiation can be personalized based on patient preference.
Bis‐[3]Ferrocenophanes with Central >E−E’< Bonds (E, E’=P, SiH): Preparation, Properties, and Thermal Activation
Authors: Isenberg Stefan , Weller Stefan , Kargin Denis , Valić Srećko , Schwederski Brigitte , Kelemen Zsolt , Bruhn Clemens , Krekić Kristijan , Maurer Martin , Feil Christoph M. , Nieger Martin , Gudat Dietrich , Nyulászi László , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: October 2019

Invited for this month's cover picture are the groups of Professors Rudolf Pietschnig at the University of Kassel, Professor Dietrich Gudat at the University of Stuttgart and Professor László Nyulászi at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. The cover picture shows the thermally induced homolytic cleavage of the central P‐P bond in a phosphorus–rich bis‐ferrocenophane furnishing P‐centered radicals (as evidenced by the computed spin‐density highlighted in blue). The central P6 unit in the title compound is a structural analog of the connecting unit in Hittorf's violet phosphorus, which links the orthogonally arranged tubular entities. A portrait of the German physicist Johann Wilhelm Hittorf is included. Read the full text of their Full Paper at 10.1002/open.201900182.
Next‐generation sequencing of PTEN mutations for monitoring minimal residual disease in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Germano Giuseppe , Valsecchi Maria Grazia , Buldini Barbara , Cazzaniga Giovanni , Zanon Carlo , Silvestri Daniela , te Kronnie Geertruij , Basso Giuseppe , Paganin Maddalena
Published: October 2019

Minimal residual disease (MRD) analysis has become a powerful indicator to refine therapy in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Here, we present an MRD detection based on the next‐generation sequencing of PTEN exon 7 mutations (NGS‐PTEN) in 30 pediatric T‐cell ALL patients. By comparing the NGS‐PTEN results with current quantitative PCR of antigen receptor gene rearrangements (qPCR‐Ig/TR), an overall concordance of 80% was found between the two methods. However, the NGS‐PTEN qualified a lower number of high‐risk patients than qPCR‐Ig/TR. These findings suggest that NGS‐PTEN is a promising tool that could potentially be used to support current MRD methodologies for T‐ALL patients.
The Effect of Processing Parameters on the Crystalline, Orientation, and Mechanical Properties of Two‐Stage Die‐Drawn Polypropylene
Authors: Wu Pingping , Yang Qi , Luo Xiehuai , Zhang Tongying
Published: October 2019

An investigation specifically focusing on the relationship among processing parameters, structure, and mechanical properties of solid two‐stage die‐drawn polypropylene (PP) has been done in this study, which aimed at providing a reliable reference in the choose of appropriate conditions that can be able to meet a specific processing requirement. PP sheets were drawn through a self‐design solid two‐stage die‐drawing apparatus to various drawing ratios (DRs) at different speeds and with different die‐exit thicknesses. The results showed that tensile strength, modulus, and the degree of orientation significantly increased with the nominal DR and could be further improved by increasing the drawing speed. While the crystallinity increased prior and decreased to near a constant value when the drawing speed was over 150 mm/min in the researched scope. Larger the die‐exit thickness was, lower the orientation degree was but higher the crystallinity could be obtained. Compared with crystallinity, orientation degree plays a leading role in the final product properties during a two‐stage solid die‐drawing process. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:2347–2355, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Tubular to spherical mesoscopic self‐assembly of C‐ and N‐termini capped dileucines
Authors: Datta Dhrubajyoti , Jana Saibal , Tiwari Omshanker
Published: October 2019

Among the plethora of aromatic and aliphatic dipeptide sequences that are successfully employed in nanoarchitecture and nanotechnology, dileucines (Leu‐Leu) is known for its self‐sorting behavior like diphenylalanine (Phe‐Phe), the most explored motif till date. However, only a few reports demonstrate the effects of capping groups on Leu‐Leu self‐assembly. Hence, to understand the effect of hydrophobic substituent on C‐/N‐termini, a series of Leu‐Leu derivatives are prepared and their self‐assembled morphology is evaluated. Spherical and tubular mesoscopic morphologies of C‐ and N‐termini capped Leu‐Leu owing to H‐bonding, π‐π stacking and van der Waals interactions are reported. Attachment of alkynes (propyne) at C‐termini results in micro‐tubes and rods for Boc‐Leu‐Leu‐Propyne and Fc‐Leu‐Leu‐Propyne, respectively. Hollow morphology was observed and substantiated by TEM and confocal microscopy. These micro‐tubes and micro‐rods transform into spherical nanoparticles after click conjugation at C‐termini which clearly show the effect of chemical modification on their self‐assembly. Therefore, subtle variations of capping groups result in remarkable changes of self‐assembled morphology, which suggests that the terminal capping is an important factor for rational design of short peptide‐based biomaterial.
Synthesis and decrosslinking of networked polymers having zwitterion structure consisted by cyclic amidine and isothiocyanate
Authors: Yamauchi Akira , Yoshida Yoshiaki , Endo Takeshi
Published: October 2019

We have already found that the polymers, which are obtained by the polymerization of 4‐vinylphenyl isothoiocyanate after the zwitterion formation with cyclic amidines, are networked through the ionic interaction among the zwitterions becoming insoluble to various solvents. We report here on the results of the reaction of nucleophilic reagents such as amines and alcohols with the zwitterionic adduct to investigate about the decrosslinking through the resolution of ionic interactions. In the model reactions of amines and alcohols with the zwitterion compounds, which were consisted of the phenyl isothiocyanate and cyclic amidines, the reaction of nucleophilic reagents and zwitterionic adducts having methyl group at the 2‐position of the amidine proceed quantitatively. Based on the model reaction, such nucleophilic addition was applicable to decrosslinking reaction of the networked polymers containing the zwitterion structure in the side‐chain. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2131–2137
Lower critical solution temperature sensitivity to structural changes in poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) homopolymers
Authors: García‐Peñas Alberto , Wang Yu , Muñoz‐Bonilla Alexandra , Fernández‐García Marta , Stadler Florian J.
Published: October 2019

The effect of the molecular weight on the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) has been discussed extensively, where LCST increased with molar mass, decreased or kept constant, which leads to confusion. This work is focused on the preparation of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) homopolymers, obtained in a wide molecular weights range. The LCST behavior is analyzed by calorimetry and rheology, and a deep study of molecular features is carried out for a better knowledge of the influence of various parameters involved on LCST. Finally, the molecular weight trend is observed, and its influence on LCST is compared with the effect of other parameters as polymer concentration in water, end‐group effect, and tacticity. It is observed that other parameters such tacticity and end‐group effect will affect the LCST behavior over molecular weight, if this one is not high enough. Furthermore, the study of the LCST ranges will be a useful tool for analyzing the molecular weight trends. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 1386–1393
Physical activity and asthma development in childhood: Prospective birth cohort study
Authors: Eijkemans Marianne , Mommers Monique , Remmers Teun , Draaisma Jos M. Th. , Prins Martin H. , Thijs Carel
Published: October 2019

Background

Sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity are possible risk factors for developing asthma. This longitudinal study investigates the association between physical activity and subsequent asthma. We hypothesize that children with decreased physical activity at early school age, have higher risk of developing asthma.

Methods

One thousand eight hundred thirty‐eight children from the KOALA Birth Cohort Study were analyzed. Children who were born prematurely or with congenital defects/diseases with possible influence on either physical activity or respiratory symptoms were excluded. Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and screen time were measured at age 4 to 5 years by questionnaire and accelerometry in a subgroup (n = 301). Primary outcome was asthma, assessed by repeated ISAAC questionnaires between age 6 and 10. Secondary outcome was lung function measured by spirometry in a subgroup (n = 485, accelerometry subgroup n = 62) (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC] and FEV1/FVC ratio) at age 6 to 7 years.

Results

Reported physical activity was not associated with reported asthma nor lung function. Accelerometry data showed that daily being 1 hour less physically active was associated with a lower FEV1/FVC (z score β, −0.65; 95% confidence interval, −1.06 to −0.24).

Conclusions

Physical activity at early school age was not associated with reported asthma development later in life. However, lung function results showed that sedentary activity time was associated with lower FEV1/FVC later in childhood. As this is the first longitudinal study with objectively measured physical activity and lung function, and because the subgroup sample size was small, this result needs replication.
High‐Efficiency Interdigitated Back Contact Silicon Solar Cells with Front Floating Emitter
Authors: Ding Don , Lin Hao , Liu Hong , Lu Guilin , Li Zhengping , Zhang Yueheng , Shen Wenzhong
Published: October 2019

Silicon interdigitated back contact (IBC) solar cells with front floating emitter (FFE‐IBC) put forward a new carrier transport concept of “pumping effect” for minority carriers compared with traditional IBC solar cells with front surface field (FSF‐IBC). Herein, high‐performance FFE‐IBC solar cells are achieved theoretically combining superior crystalline silicon quality, front surface passivation, and shallow groove structure using 2D device model. The improvement of minority carrier transport capacity is realized in the conductive FFE layer through optimizing the doping concentration and junction depth. It is shown that the shallow groove on the rear side of FFE‐IBC solar cells can effectively enhance the carrier collection ability by means of minimizing the negative impact of undiffused gap or surface p–n junction. The high efficiency exceeding 25% can be realized on silicon FFE‐IBC solar cells with the novel cell structure and optimized cell parameters, where the back surface field and emitter region width can be made for the same with only a slight sacrifice of photocurrent density and conversion efficiency. It is demonstrated theoretically that the realization of high‐efficiency and low‐cost silicon IBC solar cells is feasible due to the increase of the module fabrication tolerance.
Optimal Photonic Crystal Cavities for Coupling Nanoemitters to Photonic Integrated Circuits
Authors: Olthaus Jan , Schrinner Philip P. J. , Reiter Doris E. , Schuck Carsten
Published: October 2019

Photonic integrated circuits that are manufactured with mature semiconductor technology hold great promise for realizing scalable quantum technology. Efficient interfaces between quantum emitters and nanophotonic devices are crucial building blocks for such implementations on silicon chips. These interfaces can be realized as nanobeam optical cavities with high quality factors and wavelength‐scale mode volumes, thus providing enhanced coupling between nano‐scale quantum emitters and nanophotonic circuits. Realizing such resonant structures is particularly challenging for the visible wavelength range, where many of the currently considered quantum emitters operate, and if compatibility with modern semiconductor nanofabrication processes is desired. Here, it is shown that photonic crystal nanobeam cavities for the visible spectrum can be designed and fabricated directly on‐substrate with high quality factors and small mode volumes. Designs are compared based on deterministic and mode‐matching methods and the latter is found advantageous for on‐substrate realizations. The results pave the way for integrating quantum emitters with nanophotonic circuits for applications in quantum technology.
Platforms as if people mattered
Authors: Frost Shuang L.
Published: October 2019

In his 1973 bookSmall Is Beautiful, economist E. F. Schumacher observed that an ascendant ideology of “bigger is better” industrialism was driving humans to become the servants of machines. “If technology is felt to be becoming more and more inhuman,” he reflected, “we might do well to consider whether it is possible to have something better—a technology with a human face.” Taking up Schumacher's call, this article considers the possibility of “small” digital platforms in the context of China's contemporary ride‐hailing industry. Through an ethnographic study of V Taxi, a grassroots community of taxi drivers, it explores how a human‐centric platform for transportation services emerged, developed, and survived in a rapidly shifting economic and political landscape. The beauty and resilience of this platform lie in its ability to harness local social networks, enabling individual actors to share economic opportunities, skills, and knowledge. Through these practices of sharing, V Taxi members produce relational value, which strengthens community bonds. Drawing upon analytic frameworks from economic anthropology in conjunction with insights from science and technology studies, this article argues that “small” digital platforms can empower economic actors by enabling the production of relational value, thus protecting human agency and expanding human capabilities.
The Search for Histamine H4 Receptor Ligands with Anticancer Activity among Novel (Thio)urea Derivatives
Authors: Domínguez‐Álvarez Enrique , Łażewska Dorota , Szabó Zsanett , Hagenow Stefanie , Reiner David , Gajdács Márió , Spengler Gabriella , Stark Holger , Handzlik Jadwiga , Kieć‐Kononowicz Katarzyna
Published: October 2019

A series of 33 novel (thio)urea‐containing compounds were initially designed and synthesized as potential ligands for the histamine H4 receptor (H4R). However, only 3 compounds showed a statistically significant affinity towards H4R (Ki<10 μM). Considering the structural analogy of these thioureas to previously described seleno/thiourea compounds with anticancer and/or reversal multidrug resistance action in cancer cells, selected thioureas were evaluated in in vitro cytotoxicity‐ and cancer multidrug resistance assays. The thiourea derivatives showed a good cytotoxic activity, being the compound 13 d (4‐methyl‐N‐(p‐phenylphenyl)‐piperazine‐1‐carbothiamide) the most active (IC50 = 11.9 μM). They also enhanced the cytotoxicity of the topoisomerase inhibitors topotecan and doxorubicin in a checkerboard combination assay. Compound 13 d showed the strongest synergistic effect on topotecan activity, whereas 13 c (4‐methyl‐N‐(p‐tolyl)‐piperazine‐1‐carbothiamide) was the best in combination with doxorubicin. These results can be a good starting point to design more potent and effective (thio)urea derivatives with anticancer activity.
Dielectric‐Screening Reduction‐Induced Large Transport Gap in Suspended Sub‐10 nm Graphene Nanoribbon Functional Devices
Authors: Schmidt Marek E. , Muruganathan Manoharan , Kanzaki Teruhisa , Iwasaki Takuya , Hammam Ahmed M. M. , Suzuki Shunei , Ogawa Shinichi , Mizuta Hiroshi
Published: October 2019

The predicted quasiparticle energy gap of more than 1 eV in sub‐6 nm graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) is elusive, as it is strongly suppressed by the substrate dielectric screening. The number of techniques that can produce suspended high‐quality and electrically contacted GNRs is small. The helium ion beam milling technique is capable of achieving sub‐5 nm patterning; however, the functional device fabrication and the electrical characteristics are not yet reported. Here, the electrical transport measurement of suspended ≈6 nm wide mono‐ and bilayer GNR functional devices is reported, which are obtained through sub‐nanometer resolution helium ion beam milling with controlled total helium ion budget. The transport gap opening of 0.16–0.8 eV is observed at room temperature. The measured transport gap of the different edge orientated GNRs is in good agreement with first‐principles simulation results. The enhanced electron–electron interaction and reduced dielectric screening in the suspended quasi‐1D GNRs and anti‐ferromagnetic coupling between opposite edges in the zigzag GNRs substantiate the observed large transport gap.
Carboxylation Reactions with Carbon Dioxide Using N‐Heterocyclic Carbene‐Copper Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Liang , Li Zhenghua , Takimoto Masanori , Hou Zhaomin
Published: October 2019

The development of versatile catalyst systems and new transformations for the utilization of carbon dioxide (CO2) is of great interest and significance. This Personal Account reviews our studies on the exploration of the reactions of CO2 with various substrates by the use of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐copper catalysts. The carboxylation of organoboron compounds gave access to a wide range of carboxylic acids with excellent functional group tolerance. The C−H bond carboxylation with CO2 emerged as a straightforward protocol for the preparation of a series of aromatic carboxylic esters and butenoates from simple substrates. The hydrosilylation of CO2 with hydrosilanes provided an efficient method for the synthesis of silyl formate on gram scale. The hydrogenative or alkylative carboxylation of alkynes, ynamides and allenamides yielded useful α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acids and α,β‐dehydro amino acid esters. The boracarboxylation of alkynes or aldehydes afforded the novel lithium cyclic boralactone or boracarbonate products, respectively. The NHC‐copper catalysts generally featured excellent functional group compatibility, broad substrate scope, high efficiency, and high regio‐ and stereoselectivity. The unique electronic and steric properties of the NHC‐copper units also enabled the isolation and structural characterization of some key intermediates for better understanding of the catalytic reaction mechanisms.
Identification method of independent components related to artifacts in electroencephalograms
Authors: Hiratsuka Shun , Hayasaka Daisuke , Kato Kazuo , Kadokura Hiroyuki
Published: October 2019

When an electroencephalogram (EEG) is measured, artifacts due to eye blinks and eye movements contaminate the EEG signal. One of the solutions applied to this problem is independent component analysis (ICA), which can separate the artifact components from EEG data. However, the identification of independent components (ICs) related to artifacts, particularly in the case of multiple noise signals from eye blinks and movements, has not been investigated fully. The purpose of this work is to identify ICs related to eye‐blink and eye‐movement artifacts in EEG data. In the proposed method, an artificial EEG with 28 channels was first created by superimposing eye‐blink and eye‐movement templates, and then ICA was applied to the artificial EEG to obtain ICs. Afterward, feature amounts of kurtosis for each IC and the cross‐correlation coefficient between each IC and the eye‐blink template and eye‐movement template were extracted, and clustering was performed by K‐means clustering. As a result, the most reasonable ICs related to multiple artifacts were identified in comparison with the results of round‐robin ICs. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Herbal medication: a worthwhile therapeutic consideration
Authors: Edwards David
Published: October 2019

Herbal medicine is undergoing something of a modern renaissance as it becomes more formally recognised as part of the therapeutic landscape. In this article the author reviews some of the more commonly used herbal medicines and puts the case for the appropriate recommendation of those formulations covered by European regulations and identified by the traditional herbal registration logo.
Messung schneller Druckänderungen im Grobvakuumbereich
Authors: Stiebritz Ingo
Published: October 2019

Measurement of fast pressure changes in the rough vacuum range

Using commercially available vacuum gauges, pressure jumps executed in the millisecond range between 1000 and just below 1 mbar were measured in a specially developed system.

Of the investigated vacuum gauges, the piezoresistive devices had the shortest response times. They reacted within 1 – 5 ms and achieved a valid measured value after approximately 20 ms. The capacitive manometers responded after 5 – 20 ms and reached a valid measured value after 50 – 100 ms. Lower‐priced Pirani gauges reacted with a response time of 50 – 100 ms and a valid measured value after 200 – 500 ms, which is based on the measuring principle. Besides, a pressure measurement opposed to the actual pressure tendency can be problematic with Piranis.
Schichtabscheidung mittels Ionenstrahlzerstäuben
Authors: Bundesmann Carsten
Published: October 2019

Ion Beam Sputter Deposition – Fundamentals and Application for Tailoring Thin Film Properties

Ion beam sputter deposition (IBSD) is a PVD technique, which, in comparison to other PVD techniques, is known to produce thin films with desirable properties, for instance, with improved adhesion, dense film structure, less defects, higher purity, less particle contamination, and better controlled composition. Recent systematic and comprehensive investigations of the fundamentals of the whole IBSD process revealed previously unemployed opportunities for tailoring thin film properties over a wide range. The main process parameters were identified to be the scattering geometry and the ion species, or, to be more precise, the mass of the primary ion relative to the mass of the target particle. By choosing these parameters appropriately, structural, optical or electrical properties, to name but a few, can be adjusted according to the technological requirements. The present contribution aims on illustrating these opportunities by presenting the main fundamentals and selected examples.
Mathematical and physical aspects of the solution to the Cauchy problem for a time‐nonlocal model of thermoelasticity theory
Authors: Gawinecki Jerzy August , Rafa Józef , Łazuka Jarosław
Published: October 2019

The thermoelasticity theories describing a finite speed for the propagation of thermal perturbation have been investigated over the last 50 years. In contrast to the classical thermoelasticity theory, these nonclassical theories involve a hyperbolic type heat transport equation and they are motivated by experiments exhibiting the actual occurence of wave‐type heat transport, so‐called second sound (cf. [6–8,11,26]).

The aim of this paper is to present a new system of equations describing nonlocal model of thermoelasticity theory. In order to obtain it we used the Pipkin and Gurtin [26] approach to the constitutive relations for the internal energy and the heat flux. Using the modified Cagniard‐de Hoop method we constructed the matrix of fundamental solutions to this system of equations in the three‐dimensional spaces. Basing on the constructed matrix of fundamental solutions we obtained the explicit formulae for the solution to the Cauchy problem to this system of equations in the form of some kind of convolutions. Applying the method of Sobolev spaces we proved the time decay estimate for the solution to the considered Cauchy problem to this new system of equations.

We are interested in physical and mathematical aspects of this new system of equations. We discovered the new type of thermal wave appearing in the medium described by the nonlocal model of thermoelasticity theory.
Enhancing Indoor Coverage by Multi-Pairs Copper Cables: The Analog MIMO Radio-over-Copper Architecture
Authors: Matera Andrea
Published: October 2019

Nowadays, the majority of indoor coverage issues arise from networks that are mainly designed for outdoor scenarios. Outdoor networks, somewhat uncontrollably, may penetrate indoors with the consequence of coverage holes and outage issues, hence reducing network performances. Moreover, the ever-growing number of devices expected for 5G worsens this situation, calling for novel bandwidth-efficient, low-latency and cost-effective solutions for indoor wireless coverage. This is the focus of this article, which summarizes the content of my Ph.D. thesis by presenting an analog Centralized Radio Access Network (C-RAN) architecture augmented by copper-cable, possibly pre-existing, to provide dense coverage inside buildings. This fronthaul architecture, referred to as Analog MIMO Radio-over-Copper (AMIMO-RoC), is an extreme RAN functional-split-option: the all-analog Remote Radio Units take the form of tiny, simple and cheap in-home devices, and Base Band Unit includes also signals’ digitization. The A-MIMO-RoC architecture is introduced in this article starting from demonstrating its theoretical feasibility. Then, the origin and evolution of A-MIMO-RoC are described step-by-step by briefly going through previous works based on numerical analysis and simulations results. Finally, the overall discussion is complemented by results obtained with a prototype platform, which experimentally prove the capability of A-MIMO-RoC to extend indoor coverage over the last 100–200 m. Prototype results thus confirm that the proposed A-MIMO-RoC architecture is a valid solution towards the design of dedicated 5G indoor wireless systems for the billions of buildings which nowadays still suffer from severe indoor coverage issues.
Effects of Social Disparities on Management and Surgical Outcomes for Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Greene Brittany , Kim S. Joseph , McCarthy Ellen P. , Pasternak Jesse D.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Nearly 80% of chronic renal failure patients have secondary hyperparathyroidism. Cinacalcet is used to lower parathyroid hormone; however, it is expensive and has side effects. When secondary hyperparathyroidism is resistant to medication or medications are inaccessible, parathyroidectomy is performed. Race and socioeconomic status influence access to care and surgical outcomes. We sought to evaluate the effect of race and socioeconomic status on parathyroidectomy rate as well as surgical outcomes of patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Methods

We undertook cross‐sectional analysis of adults diagnosed with secondary hyperparathyroidism in the USA between 2012 and 2014, using the National Inpatient Sample. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine associations between social disparities, likelihood to undergo parathyroidectomy, and surgical outcomes.

Results

Between 2012 and 2014, a national estimate of 724,170 hospitalizations were identified where patients had a diagnosis of secondary hyperparathyroidism. Operative rate was 0.67%. By socioeconomic status, differences in rates of surgery in the poorest compared to the richest were not significant (0.74% vs. 0.55%, OR 1.08, p = 0.5). African‐American patients had higher rates of parathyroidectomy compared to Caucasians (1 vs. 0.74%, OR 1.49, p < 0.001). African‐American patients also had a trend toward more complications and greater length of stay.

Conclusions

According to a large administrative dataset, parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism is seldom used in the USA. African‐American patients have higher rates of surgical management. Surgical outcomes may be affected by race. Clinicians treating secondary hyperparathyroidism should be aware of existing disparities within their health system.
Susceptibility of protein therapeutics to spontaneous chemical modifications by oxidation, cyclization, and elimination reactions
Authors: Grassi Luigi , Cabrele Chiara
Published: October 2019

Peptides and proteins are preponderantly emerging in the drug market, as shown by the increasing number of biopharmaceutics already approved or under development. Biomolecules like recombinant monoclonal antibodies have high therapeutic efficacy and offer a valuable alternative to small-molecule drugs. However, due to their complex three-dimensional structure and the presence of many functional groups, the occurrence of spontaneous conformational and chemical changes is much higher for peptides and proteins than for small molecules. The characterization of biotherapeutics with modern and sophisticated analytical methods has revealed the presence of contaminants that mainly arise from oxidation- and elimination-prone amino-acid side chains. This review focuses on protein chemical modifications that may take place during storage due to (1) oxidation (methionine, cysteine, histidine, tyrosine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine), (2) intra- and inter-residue cyclization (aspartic and glutamic acid, asparagine, glutamine, N-terminal dipeptidyl motifs), and (3) β-elimination (serine, threonine, cysteine, cystine) reactions. It also includes some examples of the impact of such modifications on protein structure and function.
A Sufficiently Just Liberal Society is an Illusion
Authors: Ypi Lea
Published: October 2019

Matteo Bonotti’s book on Partisanship and Public Reason in Diverse Societies is grounded on a theory of partisanship that sees the demands of public reason as internal to the very definition of a party. Bonotti suggests that partisanship is not only compatible with but essential to the stability and legitimacy of a well-ordered liberal society. My paper aims to raise some questions internal to the liberal account of partisanship so as to probe the methodological foundations and plausibility of the liberal framework taken as a whole. My argument is that the assumption of a sufficiently just liberal society on which the book grounds its defence of partisanship makes us ill-equipped to face some of the most critical challenges that liberal societies face in the world that we live.
Water quality and physicochemical parameters of outgoing waters in a pharmaceutical plant
Authors: Hamaidi-Chergui Fella , Brahim Errahmani Mohamed
Published: October 2019

This work has focused on a pharmaceutical plant waters and the environmental impact of its discharges. The Water Quality Index (WQI), the Organic Pollution Index (OPI) and the Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) of incoming and outgoing waters were analyzed over seasonal variations for 5 months using classical and mathematical indices. Highly significant increases were observed at the output (p < 0.001) for electrical conductivity, alkalinity, calcium and sodium; very significant (p < 0.01) for nitrites, COD and BOD5; significant (p < 0.05) for turbidity, potassium and chlorides. The sulfates, nitrates, phosphates, ammonia, TSS, magnesium, aluminum, iron and manganese showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). These parameters remained high all over the study period except for the BOD5. The WQI was reported in input waters in the range 85.9–89.5 indicating water safe for domestic use, range 42.3–60.9 (medium to bad) in output waters highlighting the water pollution. The OPI highlighted waters with low-to-moderate pollution, essentially due to high levels of nitrites. The SAR was found in “medium-to-high” salinity and “low sodium” ranges, thus precautions required in soils but without significant global effects. The COD/BOD5ratio highlighted a wastewater sometimes difficultly biodegradable (ratio > 3). In conclusion, often throughout all the study period, the outgoing waters were found with bad quality and non-negligible risks for soils; it is thus strongly advocated that these waters must undergo appropriate treatment to improve its physicochemical quality.
SEM morphological analysis of irradiated polystyrene film doped by a Schiff base containing a 1,2,4-triazole ring system
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed A. , Ahmed Dina S. , El-Hiti Gamal A. , Alotaibi Mohammad Hayal , Hashim Hassan , Yousif Emad
Published: October 2019

A Schiff base containing the 1,2,4-triazole moiety was synthesized and added to polystyrene at low concentration for a homogenous blend. The polystyrene film was irradiated with ultraviolet light and the surface morphology was analyzed. Micrographs of the polystyrene/Schiff base blend after irradiation indicated the fabrication of a terrestrial crack-like material. This was ascribed to the presence of the Schiff base, relatively long irradiation time, and photostability induced by the base. After irradiation, the blank polystyrene film formed a cotton-like fibrous material.
Model for the dynamics of micro-bubbles in high-Reynolds-number flows
Authors: Zhang Zhentong , Legendre Dominique , Zamansky Rémi
Published: October 2019

We propose a model for the acceleration of micro-bubbles (smaller than the dissipative scale of the flow) subjected to the drag and fluid inertia forces in a homogeneous and isotropic turbulent flow. This model, that depends on the Stokes number, Reynolds number and the density ratio, reproduces the evolution of the acceleration variance as well as the relative importance and alignment of the two forces as observed from direct numerical simulations (DNS). We also report that the bubble acceleration statistics conditioned on the local kinetic energy dissipation rate are invariant with the Stokes number and the dissipation rate. Based on this observation, we propose a stochastic model for the instantaneous bubble acceleration vector accounting for the small-scale intermittency of the turbulent flows. The norm of the bubble acceleration is obtained by modelling the dissipation rate along the bubble trajectory from a log-normal stochastic process, whereas its orientation is given by two coupled random walks on a unit sphere in order to model the evolution of the joint orientation of the drag and inertia forces acting on the bubble. Furthermore, the proposed stochastic model for the bubble acceleration is used in the context of large eddy simulations (LES) of turbulent flows laden with small bubbles. To account for the turbulent motion at scales smaller than the mesh resolution, we decompose the instantaneous bubble acceleration in its resolved and residual parts. The first part is given by the drag and fluid inertia forces computed from the resolved velocity field, and the second term refers to the random contribution of small unresolved turbulent scales and is estimated with the stochastic model proposed in the paper. Comparisons with DNS and standard LES, show that the proposed model improves significantly the statistics of the bubbly phase.