bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near‐3‐MeV protons from target‐normal‐sheath‐acceleration femtosecond laser irradiating advanced targets
Authors: Torrisi L. , Cutroneo M. , Rosinski M. , Badziak J. , Parys P. , Wołowski J. , Zaraś‐Szydłowska A. , Torrisi A.
Published: February 2019

Advanced targets based on graphene oxide and gold thin film were irradiated at high laser intensity (1018–1019 W/cm2) with 50‐fs laser pulses and high contrast (108) to investigate ion acceleration in the target‐normal‐sheath‐acceleration regime. Time‐of‐flight technique was employed with SiC semiconductor detectors and ion collectors in order to measure the ion kinetic energy and to control the properties of the generated plasma. It was found that, at the optimized laser focus position with respect to the target, maximum proton acceleration up to about 3 MeV energy and low angular divergence could be generated. The high proton energy is explained as due to the high electrical and thermal conductivity of the reduced graphene oxide structure. Dependence of the maximum proton energy on the target focal position and thickness is presented and discussed.
Ionization dynamics of dense matter generated by intense ultrashort X‐ray pulses
Authors: Shihab Mohammed , Bornath Thomas , Redmer Ronald
Published: February 2019

We investigate a pump‐probe X‐ray Thomson scattering (XRTS) experiment that might be carried out at a free electron laser facility to study warm‐to‐hot states of dense matter. Ultrashort and intense X‐ray pulses with different energies (1,560–1,830 eV) heat a 1 µm thick Al target isochorically and create homogeneous and uncompressed warm‐to‐hot states of dense matter. A second pulse with variable delay probes this heated state via XRTS. The X‐ray laser–target interaction is modelled within radiation‐hydrodynamic simulations applying the HELIOS‐CR code. The HELIOS‐CR results qualitatively agree with Monte‐Carlo simulations, where the laser pulse absorption is simulated based on a uniform random sequence of events. The electron feature in the simultaneously observed X‐ray scattering spectrum is a function of the degree of ionization and the target temperature. Therefore, the temporal evolution of the plasmon peak measures the ionization dynamics on ultra‐short time scales. The XRTS spectrum is calculated based on the Chihara formula utilizing the Born‐Mermin approximation for the free electron dynamic structure factor. The proposed experiment will reveal important details of the ionization dynamics on ultra‐short time scales as well as of the relaxation on ps time scales.
Flow Cytometry Assessment of CD26+ Leukemic Stem Cells in Peripheral Blood: A Simple and Rapid New Diagnostic Tool for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Raspadori Donatella , Pacelli Paola , Sicuranza Anna , Abruzzese Elisabetta , Iurlo Alessandra , Cattaneo Daniele , Gozzini Antonella , Galimberti Sara , Baratè Claudia , Pregno Patrizia , Nicolosi Maura , Sorà Federica , Annunziata Mario , Luciano Luigiana , Caocci Giovanni , Moretti Sabrina , Sgherza Nicola , Fozza Claudio , Russo Sabina , Usala Emilio , Liberati Marina A. , Ciofini Sara , Trawinska Monika M. , Gozzetti Alessandro , Bocchia Monica
Published: February 2019

Background

Recent investigations in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) have focused on the identification and characterization of leukemic stem cells (LSCs). These cells reside within the CD34+/CD38─/Lin─ fraction and score positive for CD26 (dipeptidylpeptidase IV) a marker, expressed in both bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB) samples, that discriminates CML cells from normal hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) or from LSCs of other myeloid neoplasms. CD26 evaluation could be a useful tool to improve the identification of CML LCSs by using flow‐cytometry assay.

Methods

CD26+ LSCs have been isolated from EDTA PB and BM samples of patients with leucocytosis suspected for CML. Analysis of LSCs CML has been performed by using custom‐made lyophilized pre‐titrated antibody mixture test and control tube and a CD45+/CD34+/CD38−/CD26+ panel as a strict flow cytometric gating strategy.

Results

The expression of CD26 on CD34+/CD38− population was detectable in 211/211 PB and 84/84 BM samples of subsequently confirmed BCR‐ABL+ CP‐CML patients. None of the 32 samples suspicious for CML but scoring negative for circulating CD26+ LSCs were diagnosed as CML after conventional cytogenetic and molecular testing. To validate our results, we checked for PB CD26+ LSCs in patients affected by other hematological disorders and they all scored negative for CD26 expression.

Conclusions

We propose flow cytometry evaluation of CD26 expression on PB CD34+/CD38− population as a new rapid, reproducible, and powerful diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of CML. © 2019 The Authors. Cytometry Part B: Clinical Cytometry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Clinical Cytometry Society.
Will like replace like? Linking thermal performance to ecological function across predator and herbivore populations
Authors: Rosenblatt Adam E. , Wyatt Katherine S. , Schmitz Oswald J.
Published: February 2019

The inability of species to adapt to changing climate may cause ecological communities to disassemble and lose ecological functioning. However, theory suggests that communities may be resilient whenever populations within species exhibit variation in thermal plasticity or adaptation whereby thermally tolerant populations replace thermally sensitive ones. But will they maintain the functional roles of the populations being replaced? This study evaluated whether “like replaces like” functionally by measuring how four populations of a grasshopper herbivore and its co‐occurring spider predator cope with environmental warming. The study occurred across a latitudinal gradient bounded by southerly, warmer Connecticut and northerly, cooler New Hampshire, USA. The study compared the survival rates, thermal performance, habitat usage, and food chain interactions of each grasshopper and spider population between its home field site (field of origin) and a Connecticut transplant site, and the native Connecticut population. Three grasshopper populations exhibited physiological plasticity by adjusting metabolic rates. The fourth population selected cooler habitat locations. Spider populations did not alter their metabolism and instead selected cooler habitat locations, thereby altering spatial overlap with their prey and food chain interactions. Grasshopper populations that coped physiologically consumed plants in different ratios than the fourth population and the Connecticut population. Hence, “like may not replace like” whenever populations adapt physiologically to warming.
Towards better definition, quantification and treatment of fibrosis in heart failure. A scientific roadmap by the Committee of Translational Research of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: de Boer Rudolf A. , De Keulenaer Gilles , Bauersachs Johann , Brutsaert Dirk , Cleland John G. , Diez Javier , Du Xiao‐Jun , Ford Paul , Heinzel Frank R. , Lipson Kenneth E. , McDonagh Theresa , Lopez‐Andres Natalia , Lunde Ida G. , Lyon Alexander R. , Pollesello Piero , Prasad Sanjay K. , Tocchetti Carlo G. , Mayr Manuel , Sluijter Joost P.G. , Thum Thomas , Tschöpe Carsten , Zannad Faiez , Zimmermann Wolfram‐Hubertus , Ruschitzka Frank , Filippatos Gerasimos , Lindsey Merry L. , Maack Christoph , Heymans Stephane
Published: February 2019

Fibrosis is a pivotal player in heart failure development and progression. Measurements of (markers of) fibrosis in tissue and blood may help to diagnose and risk stratify patients with heart failure, and its treatment may be effective in preventing heart failure and its progression. A lack of pathophysiological insights and uniform definitions has hampered the research in fibrosis and heart failure. The Translational Research Committee of the Heart Failure Association discussed several aspects of fibrosis in their workshop. Early insidious perturbations such as subclinical hypertension or inflammation may trigger first fibrotic events, while more dramatic triggers such as myocardial infarction

and myocarditis give rise to full blown scar formation and ongoing fibrosis in diseased hearts. Aging itself is also associated with a cardiac phenotype that includes fibrosis. Fibrosis is an extremely heterogeneous phenomenon, as several stages of the fibrotic process exist, each with different fibrosis subtypes and a different composition of various cells and proteins — resulting in a very complex pathophysiology. As a result, detection of fibrosis, e.g. using current cardiac imaging modalities or plasma biomarkers, will detect only specific subforms of fibrosis, but cannot capture all aspects of the complex fibrotic process. Furthermore, several anti‐fibrotic therapies are under investigation, but such therapies generally target aspecific aspects of the fibrotic process and suffer from a lack of precision. This review discusses the mechanisms and the caveats and proposes a roadmap for future research.
Facile One‐Pot Synthesis of Methyl 1‐Aryl‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐carboxylates from Nitrilimines with Vilsmeier Reagent
Authors: Tsai Shuo‐En , Chiang Kun‐Heng , Tseng Ching‐Chun , Chen Nai‐Wei , Chern Ching‐Yuh , Wong Fung Fuh
Published: February 2019

Two convenient and effective one‐pot methods have been developed to synthesize methyl 1‐aryl‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole1–3‐carboxylates by using hydrazonoyl hydrochlorides (nitrilimines) with Vilsmeier reagent. The first, a direct one‐pot method, involved the reaction between nitrilimines and Vilsmeier reagent at 85 °C for about 0.5 h. Another one‐pot two‐step cascade method proceeded via nucleophilic substitution with bis(trimethylsilyl)amine [NH(SiMe3)2] and subsequent intramolecular cycloaddition reaction with Vilsmeier reagent. Substrate scope, multicomponent examples, and mechanistic insights are discussed.
Creation of a Curated Aquatic Toxicology Database: EnviroTox
Authors: Connors Kristin A. , Beasley Amy , Barron Mace G. , Belanger Scott E. , Bonnell Mark , Brill Jessica L. , de Zwart Dick , Kienzler Aude , Krailler Jesse , Otter Ryan , Phillips Joshua L. , Embry Michelle R.
Published: February 2019

Flexible, rapid, and predictive approaches that do not require the use of large numbers of vertebrate test animals are needed because the chemical universe remains largely untested for potential hazards. Development of robust new approach methodologies and nontesting approaches requires the use of existing information via curated, integrated data sets. The ecological threshold of toxicological concern (ecoTTC) represents one such new approach methodology that can predict a conservative de minimis toxicity value for chemicals with little or no information available. For the creation of an ecoTTC tool, a large, diverse environmental data set was developed from multiple sources, with harmonization, characterization, and information quality assessment steps to ensure that the information could be effectively organized and mined. The resulting EnviroTox database contains 91 217 aquatic toxicity records representing 1563 species and 4016 unique Chemical Abstracts Service numbers and is a robust, curated database containing high-quality aquatic toxicity studies that are traceable to the original information source. Chemical-specific information is also linked to each record and includes physico-chemical information, chemical descriptors, and mode of action classifications. Toxicity data are associated with the physico-chemical data, mode of action classifications, and curated taxonomic information for the organisms tested. The EnviroTox platform also includes 3 analysis tools: a predicted-no-effect concentration calculator, an ecoTTC distribution tool, and a chemical toxicity distribution tool. Although the EnviroTox database and tools were originally developed to support ecoTTC analysis and development, they have broader applicability to the field of ecological risk assessment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;9999:1–12. © 2019 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.
Gap junction mediated signaling between satellite glia and neurons in trigeminal ganglia
Authors: Spray David C. , Iglesias Rodolfo , Shraer Nathanael , Suadicani Sylvia O. , Belzer Vitali , Hanstein Regina , Hanani Menachem
Published: February 2019

Peripheral sensory ganglia contain the somata of neurons mediating mechanical, thermal, and painful sensations from somatic, visceral, and oro‐facial organs. Each neuronal cell body is closely surrounded by satellite glial cells (SGCs) that have properties and functions similar to those of central astrocytes, including expression of gap junction proteins and functional dye coupling. As shown in other pain models, after systemic pain induction by intra‐peritoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide, dye coupling among SGCs in intact trigeminal ganglion was enhanced. Moreover, neuron–neuron and neuron–SGC coupling was also detected. To verify the presence of gap junction‐mediated coupling between SGCs and sensory neurons, we performed dual whole cell patch clamp recordings from both freshly isolated and short term cultured cell pairs dissociated from mouse trigeminal ganglia. Bidirectional gap junction mediated electrical responses were frequently recorded between SGCs, between neurons and between neurons and SGCs. Polarization of SGC altered neuronal excitability, providing evidence that gap junction‐mediated interactions between neurons and glia within sensory ganglia may contribute to integration of peripheral sensory responses, and to the modulation and coordinaton of neuronal activity.
Interaction between IGF2‐PI3K axis and cancer‐associated‐fibroblasts promotes anal squamous carcinogenesis
Authors: Cacheux Wulfran , Lièvre Astrid , Richon Sophie , Vacher Sophie , El Alam Elsy , Briaux Adrien , El Botty Rania , Mariani Pascale , Buecher Bruno , Schnitzler Anne , Barbazan Jorge , Roman‐Roman Sergio , Bièche Ivan , Dangles‐Marie Virginie
Published: February 2019

Anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is a rare tumour, but its incidence is increasing. Standard chemoradiotherapy fails to cure 20% of patients and no targeted therapy is currently approved for recurrent ASCC. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is frequently altered in this poorly characterised carcinoma. IGF2 was identified here as a key factor in ASCC oncogenesis, as IGF2 was shown to play a crucial role in the PI3K pathway with frequent (~60%) and mutually exclusive genomic alterations in IGF2, IGF1R, PTEN and PIK3CA genes. We also demonstrated that IGF2 expression is mainly due to cancer‐associated fibroblasts and that IGF2 secreted by cancer‐associated fibroblasts from ASCC samples promotes proliferation of a human ASCC cell line via IGF2 paracrine signalling. Altogether, these results highlight the key role of the IGF2/PI3K axis, and the major role of cancer‐associated fibroblasts in tumour growth via IGF2 secretion, suggesting a major role of IGF2/IGF1R inhibitors in ASCC therapies.
Complications of nonionizing radiofrequency on divided attention
Authors: Bamdad Kourosh , Adel Zahra , Esmaeili Masoomeh
Published: February 2019

Exposure to electromagnetic fields is considered as a potential hazard for biological systems. The objective of our investigation is the study of probable consequences of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from Wi‐Fi router devices on the short‐term memory, and attention's levels. A population consisting of 312 female college students (14 to 17 years old) was elected by cluster random sampling. Teenagers were divided into two groups of control group (Wi‐Fi nonusers; n = 138), and experiment group (Wi‐Fi users; n = 174). Both groups have been examined using short‐term memory tests; selective attention, and also divided attention tests. According to the results, there was no significant difference between using Wi‐Fi router devices on levels of selective attentions and short‐term memory of the sample students with the control group. However, analyses revealed that there is a significant correlation between the use of Wi‐Fi routers and declining levels of divided attentions. Our investigation has demonstrated the adverse consequences of 2.4‐2.48 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic fields of Wi‐Fi router devices on divided attention levels of female university students that should be mentioned as a technological risk factor and taken into account by healthcare organizations.
Synthesis, molecular docking studies, and absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion prediction of novel sulfonamide derivatives as antibacterial agents
Authors: Mohebali Farzaneh , Nazifi Zahrasadat , Mohamad Reza Nazifi Seyed , Mohammadian Hossein , Massah Ahmad R.
Published: February 2019

A series of novel sulfonamide‐amide derivatives were synthesized from 3‐(2,4 dichlorophenylamino)‐3‐oxopropane‐1‐sulfonylchloride and a variety of amines under solvent‐free conditions at room temperature. 3‐(2,4‐dichlorophenylamino)‐3‐oxopropane‐1 sulfonylchloride was synthesized in four steps starting from 2,4‐dichloroaniline and chloropropanoic acid in good yield and purity. The synthesized compounds were screened for their in vitro antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213). Molecular docking of sulfonamide derivatives into S. aureus tyrosyl‐tRNA synthetase (TyrRS)‐active site was also performed and among these, 5m and 5g tightly fit the active sites that might be inhibitors of TyrRS for further investigations. Also in the silico metabolism profile, drug‐like properties and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) of the title compounds were calculated by the preADMET server.
A perfect one‐factorisation of
Authors: Pike David A.
Published: February 2019

In 1963, Anton Kotzig conjectured that for each , the complete graph has a perfect one‐factorisation (i.e., a decomposition into perfect matchings such that each pair of perfect matchings of the decomposition induces a Hamilton cycle). We affirmatively settle the smallest unresolved case for this conjecture.
“It is OK to let them know you are human too”: Mentor self‐disclosure in formal youth mentoring relationships
Authors: Dutton Hilary , Bullen Pat , Deane Kelsey L.
Published: February 2019

This study aims to capture descriptive data on how mentors self‐disclose to their adolescent mentees. Self‐disclosure is a normative communication process that facilitates trust and closeness in interpersonal relationships. Despite being a relational intervention, little is known about self‐disclosure in youth‐mentoring relationships. A total of 54 mentors from 2 community‐based mentoring programs in Auckland, New Zealand, participated in this mixed‐methods study about their experiences of disclosing to mentees via an online questionnaire. In this sample, mentors disclosed about various topics, including hobbies, school and work, health, beliefs, self‐esteem, substance use, emotions, sex, and money. Qualitative analysis identified themes regarding how mentors self‐disclose, disclosure influencing positive relationship characteristics, the influence of mentoring programs, challenges with mentee interest and culture clashes, and the perceived effect of self‐disclosure on mentees and the mentoring relationship. These mentors disclosed broadly and viewed generally self‐disclosure in a positive way, but they also experienced challenges and complexities.
Fabrication of conductive fibrous scaffold for photoreceptor differentiation of mesenchymal stem cell
Authors: Nekouian Soraya , Sojoodi Mahdi , Nadri Samad
Published: February 2019

Conductive nanofibrous scaffolds with that can conduct electrical current have a great potential in neural tissue engineering. The purpose of this study was to survey effects of electrical stimulation and polycaprolactone/polypyrrole/multiwall carbon nanotube (PCL/PPY/MWCNTs) fibrous scaffold on photoreceptor differentiation of trabecular meshwork mesenchymal stem cells (TM‐MSCs). PCL/PPY/MWCNTs scaffold was made by electrospinning method. TM‐MSCs were seeded on PCL/PPY/MWCNTs scaffold and stimulated with a potential of 115 V/m. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and FT‐IR were used to evaluate the fabricated scaffold. Immunofluorescence and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction were used to examine differentiated cells. Scanning electron microscopy, transmitting electron microscopy, and FT‐IR confirmed the creation of the composite structure of fibers. RT‐qPCR analysis showed that the expression of rhodopsin and peripherin genes in electrically stimulated cells were significantly higher (5.7‐ and 6.23‐fold, respectively;
p ≤ 0.05) than those with no electrical stimulation. Collectively, it seems that the combination of PCL/PPY/MWCNTs scaffold, as a suitable conductive scaffold, and electrical stimulation could be an effective approach in the differentiation of stem cells in retinal tissue engineering.
MMP2/3 promote the growth and migration of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma via PI3K/Akt‐NF‐κB‐mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transformation
Authors: Zhu Yi , Yan Li , Zhu Wenjia , Song Xinmao , Yang Gang , Wang Shengzi
Published: February 2019

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is an aggressive malignancy with metastatic potential and high mortality worldwide. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of extracellular proteolytic enzymes. Although MMPs have been proved to be essential in the process of tumor migration and metastasis in most types of carcinomas, the expression and function of MMP2/3 in LSCC remain unknown. Here, we investigated the roles of MMP2/3 in LSCC and elucidated the underlying mechanism. We found that levels of MMP2/3 were significantly higher in clinical LSCC samples than in paired normal sample examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot assays. Moreover, overexpression of MMP2/3 promoted the proliferation and migration of LSCC cells by Cell Counting Kit‐8, transwell, and scratch wound‐healing assays in vitro. Furthermore, levels of epithelial cell markers (E‐cadherin and occludin) were decreased following MMP2/3 overexpression, with increased levels of mesenchymal cell markers (N‐cadherin and vimentin), suggesting the involvement of epithelial–mesenchymal transformation (EMT) process in MMP2/3‐mediated LSCC cell migration. By using short hairpin RNA, knockdown of MMP2/3 expression inhibited the proliferation, migration, and EMT process in LSCC cells in vitro. More importantly, we confirmed that MMP2/3 promoted LSCC in the PI3K/Akt‐NF‐κB‐dependent manner. This study provides insight into MMP2/3‐mediated LSCC development and lays a foundation for potential pharmacological targets to LSCC.
Variations of community structures of ammonia oxidizing and denitrifying bacteria correlated with N2O emissions among different composting techniques
Authors: Jiang Tao , Chang Jiali , Yang Juan , Yang Feng , Ma Xuguang , Yi Zhigang , Tang Qiong , Li Guoxue
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Composting is a significant source of nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions. Although numerous studies have correlated quantities of functional genes with N2O production during composting, information is lacking about the variations of related microbial community structures. This study investigates the responses of ammonia oxidizing and nirK‐type denitrifying bacteria in terms of both community structures and quantities relating with N2O emissions during pig manure composting with different techniques.

RESULTS

The techniques (forced aeration, turn windrow and static pile) significantly affected the N2O emissions during composting. The forced aeration treatment had the highest cumulative N2O emission rate which accounted for 2.4% of the initial nitrogen. Terminal‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP) and clone sequencing analyses of bacterial amoA and nirK genes showed the variations in community structures of ammonia oxidizing and nirK‐type denitrifying bacteria under different composting techniques. Co‐existence of Nitrosomonas spp. with 45‐bp terminal restriction fragment (T‐RF) of the amoA gene and denitrifier with 189‐bp T‐RF of the nirK gene could contribute to the substantial emissions of N2O in the forced aeration technique.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this study highlight the role of microbial community structure influencing N2O emissions and provide unique insights for further understanding of the mechanisms of N2O emissions among different composting techniques. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis, Docking, and Anticancer Activity of New Thiazole Clubbed Thiophene, Pyridine, or Chromene Scaffolds
Authors: Radwan Ahmed S. , Khalid Mohamed A. A.
Published: February 2019

2‐Cyanoacetamido‐4‐methylthiazole (1) was utilized as a versatile precursor for the construction of new thiazole clubbed thiazolidine, thiophene, pyridine, or chromene scaffold. The base‐catalyzed addition of 1 to phenyl isothiocyanate followed by subsequent treatment of the produced thiocarbamoyl intermediate with ethyl chloroacetate or chloroacetonitrile furnished the corresponding thiazolyl‐thiazolidine and thiazolyl‐thiophene hybrids. The reactions of compound 1 with chemical reagents, namely, acetylacetone, malononitrile, and/or 2‐(4‐anisylidene)‐malononitrile have been studied and furnished the corresponding thiazole‐pyridine hydrides 8–10. Furthermore, treatment of the precursor 1 with salicylaldehyde, various aryl diazonium chlorides, and/or aromatic aldehydes afforded their corresponding thiazolyl‐chromene hybrid 12, arylhydrazono‐nitriles 13, and unsaturated nitriles 14, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized compounds was screened against the cell lines HepG2, HCT‐116, and MCF‐7. Compounds 8, 10, and 12 recorded the best results, which was illustrated by molecular docking. Molecular Operating Environment molecular docking calculations carried out here is to rationalize correlation between docking results and biological data of thymidylate synthase (Protein Data Bank code: IHVY) inhibition. Docking has been carried out in the same co‐crystallographic inhibitor binding site to predict if the binding mode of active compounds is analogous to that of native inhibitor.
A fluorescence method for homogeneous detection of influenza A DNA sequence based on guanine‐quadruplex‐N‐methylmesoporphyrin IX complex and assistance‐DNA inhibition
Authors: Li Yubin , Liu Wanshan , Zhu Yinling , Diao Liping
Published: February 2019

In his study, we report a fluorescence method for homogeneous detection of influenza A (H1N1) DNA sequence based on G‐quadruplex‐NMM complex and assistance‐DNA (A‐DNA) inhibition. The quadruplex‐based functional DNA (QBF‐DNA), composed of a complementary probe to the target H1N1 DNA sequence and G‐rich fragment, was designed as the signal DNA. The A‐DNA consisted of two parts, one part was complementary to target H1N1 DNA and the other part was complementary to the signal DNA. In the absence of target H1N1 DNA, the G‐rich fragment of QBF‐DNA can form G‐quadruplex‐NMM complex, which outputted a fluorescent signal. With the presence of target H1N1 DNA, QBF‐DNA, and A‐DNA can simultaneously hybridize with target H1N1 DNA to form double‐helix structure. In this case, the A‐DNA partially hybridized with the QBF‐DNA, which inhibited the formation of G‐quadruplex‐NMM complex, leading to the decrease of fluorescent signal. Under the optimum conditions, the fluorescence intensity was inversely proportional to the concentration of target H1N1 DNA over the range from 25 to 700 pmol/L with a detection limit of 8 pmol/L. In addition, the method is target specific and practicability, and would become a new diagnostic assay for H1N1 DNA sequence and other infectious diseases.
The application of keystone flap combined with vacuum‐assisted closure in the repair of sacrococcygeal skin defect after tumor resection
Authors: Wu Minliang , Sun Mengyan , Dai Haiying , Xu Jianguo , Wang Xinwei , Guo Rui , Wang Yuchong , Xue Chunyu
Published: February 2019

Objective

We aimed to explore the efficacy of keystone flap combined with vacuum‐assisted closure (VAC) in the repair of sacrococcygeal wounds.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of patients undergoing keystone flap reconstruction between January 2014 and January 2018. A standardized data collection template was used to collect related variables. The detailed process of the reconstructive surgery is carefully described in this study. The postoperative healing process was closely observed.

Results

Twelve patients underwent keystone flap repair between January 2014 and January 2018. The average wound size before closure measured 7.83 ± 1.93 × 5.28 ± 0.91 cm. All the patients achieved primary wound healing and the flaps survived during the follow‐up period, which ranged from 1 to 24 months. No severe complications and obvious scar appeared, and the patients were satisfied with both appearance and function.

Conclusions

The application of keystone flap combined with VAC is a promising way to repair wounds in the sacrococcygeal region with little postoperative complication and similar soft‐tissue thickness to the surrounding tissue.
Pressure induced tissue resection in the larynx: A preliminary canine study
Authors: Benninger Michael S. , Diep Anh N. , Kaplan Seth
Published: February 2019

Objectives

The application of laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) energy in the larynx relies on thermal injury. The impact of this injury on adjacent tissue can be undesirable. Attempts have been made to limit the extent and range of injury to adjacent tissue. The O‐Pel Surgical System (Precise Light Surgical, Inc., Campbell, CA), a new technology, utilizes kinetic energy through Pressure Induced Tissue Resection (PITR) (Precise Light Surgical, Inc.) to cut tissue, theoretically eliminating injury to adjacent tissue. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the PSL in canine vocal folds.

Methods

Four dogs underwent PITR incisions (4 mJ pulses at 200 Hz) on their vocal folds, through mucosa into the muscle. The animals were sacrificed at days 0, 3, 7, and 21 days postsurgery. The larynges were harvested and histology was performed with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson trichrome, and Verhoeff‐van Gieson.

Results

At day 0, focal denudation of the epithelium and coagulation necrosis in the lamina propria and adjacent connective tissue are noted. On days 3 and 7, an inflammatory infiltrate of neutrophils is seen within the lamina propria and surrounding connective tissue with minimal edema and early deposition of collagen. At day 21, the mucosa is completely regenerated with the area of previous PITR into the muscle replaced with thick bundles of collagen.

Conclusion

The unique PITR characteristics offer a potentially unique cutting technology for laryngeal microsurgery. The current canine study suggests appropriate and rapid healing. With refinements of the tip size of the probe and adjustment of energy, PITR will likely be an appropriate alternate to traditional lasers in laryngeal surgery.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 129:2557–2562, 2019
Controlling the diffusive boundary layer thickness above the sediment–water interface in a thermostated rotating‐disk reactor
Authors: Sulpis Olivier , Mucci Alfonso , Boudreau Bernard P. , Barry Mark A. , Johnson Bruce D.
Published: February 2019

The diffusive boundary layer (DBL) is a thin layer of fluid at the interface with a solid surface in which frictional forces cause molecular diffusion to become the dominant mode of solute transport. The thickness of the DBL is a function of the nature and roughness of sediment substrates, as well as the bottom‐current speed. In low‐energy natural aquatic environments, such as abyssal plains or lakes, the thickness of the DBL can reach several millimeters and significantly impede the diffusive rate of solutes through the sediment–water interface (SWI). Thus, precisely reproducing the DBL in the laboratory is required to simulate benthic diffusive fluxes similar to those encountered in situ. Yet, an experimental apparatus allowing precise control of the DBL thickness at the SWI in the laboratory has not been described in the literature. Here, we present a simple temperature‐controlled rotating‐disk system, which is suitable for the use with natural sediments and that is capable of generating thick DBLs. Water overlying the rotating sediment can be sampled discretely or continuously to monitor the chemical reaction progress. We tested the validity of the reactor by dissolving a foraminiferal sand bed in natural seawater. We find that (1) measured dissolution fluxes agree with those predicted by theory and (2) the dissolution of calcite in these seafloor‐like hydrodynamic conditions is controlled by mass transfer across the DBL above the bed. Guidelines for best practices under various experimental conditions, possible future developments, and the theoretical equations to compute the DBL thickness and diffusive fluxes in this reactor are described.
Aluminum alloy corrosion in boron‐containing alkaline solutions
Authors: Xie Yi , Leong Amanda , Zhang Jinsuo , Leavitt Janet J.
Published: February 2019

Corrosion of aluminum alloy 1100 exposed to the boron‐containing alkaline solutions was studied. Test solutions were in the pH 7.5–8.2 range at 25, 55, and 85 °C. Both post‐tested aluminum alloy and alkaline solution were analyzed to characterize corrosion. The results indicate that the oxide layer at 25 and 55 °C was gibbsite Al(OH)3, and at 85 °C was boehmite AlOOH. Colloid deposits were found on the sample surface at 85 °C because of the phase transition of dissolved corrosion products with aging. The physics‐based aluminum release model for each test condition was developed to simulate the progression of aluminum concentration in the solution. Based on the model, the mass transfer coefficient of each test condition can be obtained.
Optical bandpass filter with adjustable reflection using a thin‐film thickness for surgical fluorescein image‐guided microscopy applications
Authors: Yoon Ki‐Cheol , Kim Kwang Gi
Published: February 2019

Interference noise rejection of an optical bandpass filter (BPF) with an adjustable thin‐film thickness using titanium oxide (Ti3O5), silicon dioxide (SiO2), and a glass substrate for high‐performance surgical fluorescein image‐guided microscopy applications is achieved, and the details are presented herein. In general, a conventional surgical microscope utilizes a beam splitter due to interference noise rejection. However, this microscope is limited by a low‐quality resolution and high attenuation of fluorescein images. The image resolution is typically inadequate for diagnosis and the interference noise could be directed to the surgical microscope when a filter is used. The wavelength of the laser which is used is 780‐785 nm and the transmission and reflection of the fabricated BPF used in this investigation are 95% and 5% in the wavelength range of 815‐872 nm and the optical density is within 1.0.
A new dual‐band microstrip antenna array with high isolation by waveguided metamaterial structure
Authors: Guo Chaozong , Zhai Huiqing , Liu Suibin
Published: February 2019

To reduce the mutual coupling between tightly spaced dual‐band patch antennas, a new waveguided metamaterial (WG‐MTM) is proposed in this research. The present WG‐MTM structure is composed of spiral periodic structures, which are etched on the ground. By loading the WG‐MTM between two dual‐band patch antennas, electric resonance and magnetic resonance are, respectively, generated in the lower and higher bands, which successfully suppress couplings between two antenna elements. According to simulated and measured results, when the edge‐to‐edge distance of two patch antennas with MTM is approximately 0.11λ0 (high‐band wavelength in the vacuum), the present structure can achieve about 7 dB and 5 dB reductions of mutual coupling in the lower and higher frequency bands, respectively.
An objective method to evaluate radiation dose distributions varying by three orders of magnitude
Authors: Wilson Lydia J. , Newhauser Wayne D. , Schneider Christopher W.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Modern radiotherapy practices typically report the absorbed dose (D) within the 5% relative isodose volume (i.e., the therapeutic dose region) to an accuracy of 3%–5%. Gamma‐index analysis, the most commonly used method to evaluate dosimetric accuracy, has low sensitivity to discrepancies that occur outside of this region. The objective of this study was to develop an evaluation method with high sensitivity across dose distributions spanning three orders of magnitude.

Methods

We generalized the gamma index to include an additional criterion, the absolute absorbed dose difference, specifically for the low‐dose region (i.e., D ≤ 5%). We also proposed a method to objectively select the appropriate magnitudes for relative‐dose‐difference, absolute‐dose‐difference, and distance‐to‐agreement criteria. We demonstrated the generalized gamma‐index method by first finding the appropriate generalized gamma‐index agreement criteria at an interval of specified passing rates. Next, we used the generalized gamma index to evaluate one‐, two‐, and three‐dimensional absorbed dose distributions in a water‐box phantom and voxelized patient geometry.

Results

Generalized gamma‐index passing rates for one‐, two‐, and three‐dimensional dose distributions were 55.4%, 44.5%, and 8.9%, respectively. Traditional gamma‐index passing rates were 100%, 97.8%, and 96.4%, respectively. These results reveal that the generalized method has adequate sensitivity in all regions (i.e., therapeutic and low dose). Additionally, the algorithmic determination of triplets of agreement criteria revealed that they are strong functions of the specified passing rate.

Conclusions

The major finding of this work is that the proposed method provides an objective evaluation of the agreement of dose distributions spanning three orders of magnitude. In particular, this generalized method correctly characterized dosimetric agreement in the low‐dose region, which was not possible by traditional methods. The proposed algorithmic selection of agreement criteria decreased subjectivity and requirements of user judgment and skill. This method could find utility in a variety of applications including dose‐algorithm development and translation.
Technical Note: Deriving ventilation imaging from 4DCT by deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Zhong Yuncheng , Vinogradskiy Yevgeniy , Chen Liyuan , Myziuk Nick , Castillo Richard , Castillo Edward , Guerrero Thomas , Jiang Steve , Wang Jing
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Ventilation images can be derived from four‐dimensional computed tomography (4DCT) by analyzing the change in HU values and deformable vector fields between different respiration phases of computed tomography (CT). As deformable image registration (DIR) is involved, accuracy of 4DCT‐derived ventilation image is sensitive to the choice of DIR algorithms. To overcome the uncertainty associated with DIR, we develop a method based on deep convolutional neural network (CNN) to derive ventilation images directly from the 4DCT without explicit image registration.

Methods

A total of 82 sets of 4DCT and ventilation images from patients with lung cancer were used in this study. In the proposed CNN architecture, the CT two‐channel input data consist of CT at the end of exhale and the end of inhale phases. The first convolutional layer has 32 different kernels of size 5 × 5 × 5, followed by another eight convolutional layers each of which is equipped with an activation layer (ReLU). The loss function is the mean‐squared‐error (MSE) to measure the intensity difference between the predicted and reference ventilation images.

Results

The predicted images were comparable to the label images of the test data. The similarity index, correlation coefficient, and Gamma index passing rate averaged over the tenfold cross validation were 0.880 ± 0.035, 0.874 ± 0.024, and 0.806 ± 0.014, respectively.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that deep CNN can generate ventilation imaging from 4DCT without explicit deformable image registration, reducing the associated uncertainty.
Comparing opium tincture and methadone for medication‐assisted treatment of patients with opioid use disorder: Protocol for a multicenter parallel group noninferiority double‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nikoo Mohammadali , Moazen‐Zadeh Ehsan , Nikoo Nooshin , Javidanbardan Sanam , Kazemi Alireza , Choi Fiona , Vogel Marc , Gholami Ali , Tavakoli Saeed , Givaki Reza , Jazani Majid , Mohammadian Fatemeh , Markazi Moghaddam Nader , Goudarzi Nasser , Schutz Christian , Jang Kerry , Akhondzadeh Shahin , Krausz Michael
Published: February 2019

Objectives

This is the first study to compare the safety and efficacy of opium tincture (OT) with methadone for treatment of opioid use disorder.

Methods

In this multicenter, double‐blind, noninferiority controlled trial, a stratified sample of 204 participants with opioid use disorder were recruited from community outreach, drop‐in centers, and triangular clinics. Participants were excluded in case of active participation in another treatment program for opioid use disorder, hypersensitivity to trial medications, pregnancy, and certain serious medical conditions. They were randomized to receive either OT or methadone with an allocation ratio of 1:1 using a patient‐centered flexible dosing strategy. Eligible participants were followed for a period of 12 weeks. Primary outcome is the difference in percentage of patients retained in the treatment. Secondary outcomes are craving, withdrawal symptoms, physical health, mental health, quality of life, and severity of substance use problems, cognitive function, safety profile, cost‐effectiveness, and participants' satisfaction. Both intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses will be conducted. The Ethics Board of the University of British Columbia and Tehran University of Medical Sciences approved the study. (clinicaltrials.gov; NCT02502175).

Results

To be reported after final analysis.

Conclusions

If shown to be effective, OT will diversify the options for medication‐assisted treatment of opioid use disorder.
Reliability of, and Agreement Between, two Breath‐by‐Breath Indirect Calorimeters at Varying Levels of Inspiratory Oxygen
Authors: Poulsen Mathias Krogh , Thomsen Lars Pilegaard , Kjærgaard Søren , Rees Stephen Edward , Karbing Dan Stieper
Published: February 2019

Background

Indirect calorimetry (IC) is considered the accurate way of measuring energy expenditure (EE). IC devices often apply the Haldane transformation, introducing errors at inspiratory oxygen fraction (FiO2) >60%. The aim was to assess measurement reliability and agreement between an unevaluated IC (device 2) (Beacon Caresystem, Mermaid Care A/S, Noerresundby, Denmark) not using Haldane transformation and an IC that does (device 1) (Ecovx, GE, Helsinki, Finland) at varying FiO2.

Methods

Twenty healthy male subjects participated, with 16 completing the study (33 ± 9 years, 83.3 ± 16 kg, 1.83 ± 0.08 m). Subjects were mechanically ventilated in pressure support (3cmH2O; positive end‐expiratory pressure: 3cmH2O) at FiO2of 21%, 50%, 85%, and 21% for 15 minutes at each FiO2. Mean EE, oxygen consumption (VO2), and CO2production (VCO2) were compared within and between devices across FiO2levels.

Results

Device 2 showed within‐device EE significant differences at 21% vs 50% FiO2and device 1 for VCO2at 50% vs. 85% FiO2. For all variables, both devices showed reliable measurements at 21% and 50% FiO2, but at 85%, FiO2bias and limits of agreement increased. Between devices, there were significant differences for EE at both 21% and 85% FiO2for VO2and for VCO2at 85% FiO2.

Conclusion

Both systems measured EE, VO2, and VCO2at 21%–85% FiO2reliably but with bias at 85% FiO2. The devices were in agreement at 21% and 50% FiO2, but further studies need to confirm accuracy at high FiO2.
Toughening modification of PLLA with PCL in the presence of PCL‐b‐PLLA diblock copolymers as compatibilizer
Authors: Xiang Sheng , Feng Lidong , Bian Xinchao , Zhang Bao , Sun Bin , Liu Yanlong , Li Gao , Chen Xuesi
Published: February 2019

To obtain an effective compatibilizer for the blends of poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) and poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), the diblock copolymers PCL‐b‐PLLA with different ratios of PCL/PLLA (CL/LA) and different molecular weights (Mn) were synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of L‐lactide with monohydric poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL‐OH) as a macro‐initiator. These copolymers were melt blended with PLLA/PCL (80/20) blend at contents between 3.0 and 20 phr (parts per hundred resin), and the effects of added PCL‐b‐PLLA on the mechanical, morphological, rheological, and thermodynamic properties of the PLLA/PCL/PCL‐b‐PLLA blends were investigated. The compatibility between PLLA matrix and PCL phase was enhanced with decreasing in CL/LA ratios or increasing in Mn for the added PCL‐b‐PLLA. Moreover, the crystallinity of PLLA matrix increased because of the added compatibilizers. The PCL‐b‐PLLA with the ratio of CL/LA (50/50) and Mn ≥ 39.0 kg/mol were effective compatibilizers for PLLA/PCL blends. When the content of PCL‐b‐PLLA is greater than or equal to 5 phr, the elongations at break of the PLLA/PCL/PCL‐b‐PLLA blends all reached approximately 180%, about 25 times more than the pristine PLLA/PCL(80/20) blend.
Hydrophilic modification of polypropylene ultrafiltration membrane by air‐assisted polydopamine coating
Authors: Wardani Anita Kusuma , Ariono Danu , Subagjo  , Wenten I Gede
Published: February 2019

Coating by a mussel inspired polydopamine (PDA) is a simple and promising strategy to modify the hydrophilicity of polymer membrane surfaces. In this work, PDA coating was used to modify polypropylene (PP) ultrafiltration hollow fiber membrane. PDA coating parameters, ie, solution concentration and coating time were varied, and the effect of those parameters on membrane morphology, porosity, water contact angle, and pure water flux was investigated. In addition, air‐assisted PDA coating process was also conducted by channelling the air through PP membrane to avoid pore blocking and prevent water flux decline. The results showed that PDA coating successfully improved the hydrophilicity of PP membrane indicated by the decrease of water contact angle from 110° to 67° after coated by 3 g/L of PDA solution for 3 hours. The addition of air permeation on membrane lumen also increased pure water flux up to 511.2 L/m2.h, a 270% increase from unmodified PP membrane. It might be associated to the pore blocking prevention that has been proven by SEM image and the membrane porosity that was increased about 4%.
Insulin immobilized PCL‐cellulose acetate micro‐nanostructured fibrous scaffolds for tendon tissue engineering
Authors: Ramos Daisy M. , Abdulmalik Sama , Arul Michael R. , Rudraiah Swetha , Laurencin Cato T. , Mazzocca Augustus D. , Kumbar Sangamesh G.
Published: February 2019

Use of growth factors as biochemical molecules to elicit cellular differentiation is a common strategy in tissue engineering. However, limitations associated with growth factors, such as short half‐life, high effective physiological doses, and high costs, have prompted the search for growth factor alternatives, such as growth factor mimics and other proteins. This work explores the use of insulin protein as a biochemical factor to aid in tendon healing and differentiation of cells on a biomimetic electrospun micro‐nanostructured scaffold. Dose response studies were conducted using human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in basal media supplemented with varied insulin concentrations. A dose of 100‐ng/mL insulin showed increased expression of tendon markers. Synthetic‐natural blends of various ratios of polycaprolactone (PCL) and cellulose acetate (CA) were used to fabricate micro‐nanofibers to balance physicochemical properties of the scaffolds in terms of mechanical strength, hydrophilicity, and insulin delivery. A 75:25 ratio of PCL:CA was found to be optimal in promoting cellular attachment and insulin immobilization. Insulin immobilized fiber matrices also showed increased expression of tendon phenotypic markers by MSCs similar to findings with insulin supplemented media, indicating preservation of insulin bioactivity. Insulin functionalized scaffolds may have potential applications in tendon healing and regeneration.