bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of surgical indication on patient outcomes and compliance with enhanced recovery program for colorectal surgery: A Francophone multicenter retrospective analysis
Authors: De Crignis Lucas , Slim Karem , Cotte Eddy , Meillat Hélène , Dupré Aurélien
Published: July 2020

Background and Objective

The impact of surgical indication on compliance with enhanced recovery program (ERP) and on outcomes has never been assessed. This study aims to assess the impact of surgical indication (malignant vs benign) on postoperative outcomes and ERP compliance.

Methods

A multicenter nationwide database was analyzed. Patients who underwent colorectal surgery for benign disease and those who underwent colorectal surgery for cancer were compared. Inclusion criteria were elective colorectal resection with anastomosis. ERP components, postoperative morbidity, and hospital length of hospital stay data were collected.

Results

Among the 6472 patients registered in the database between October 2012 and June 2018, 4528 patients were included; 2647 in the malignant group and 1881 in the benign group. The ERP compliance over 70% was not different between groups. Postoperative morbidity rate was higher in the malignant group (22.5% vs 19.3%; P = .009) but not confirmed in multivariate analysis. Patients in the malignant group were more often readmitted after discharge, 6.6% vs 4.6% (P = .004). The mean LOS was 6.3 ± 5.0 days in the malignant group and 5.4 ± 4.7 days in the benign group (P < .001).

Conclusions

Indication for colorectal surgery did not significantly influence peri‐operative management and postoperative major complications, in patients managed within an enhanced recovery program.
Full use of the liquid nature of the stationary phase: The development of elution‐extrusion counter current chromatography
Authors: Sun Xiao , Pei Dong , Duan Wen‐Da , Liu Jian‐Fei , Di Duo‐Long , Huang Xin‐Yi
Published: July 2020

Elution‐extrusion counter current chromatography extrudes the most solute retained in the column with the highest possible peak resolution. It can greatly improve the hydrophobic window. In recent years, elution‐extrusion counter current chromatography has received extensive attention in the separation of complex samples. This article first reviews the development and application of elution‐extrusion counter current chromatography, including its origin, mechanism, advantages and disadvantages, and some representative applications. At the same time, this review also shared our visions and ideas on how to improve the elution‐extrusion mode. This article aims to provide certain reference for the research of this technology.
Development of a novel, fast, simple, nonderivative HPLC method with direct UV measurement for quantification of memantine hydrochloride in tablets
Authors: Piponski Marjan , Stoimenova Tanja Bakovska , Stefov Stefan , Balkanov Trajan , Serafimovska Gordana Trendovska , Logoyda Liliya
Published: July 2020

Fast, simple, accurate, and reproducible reverse phase‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method with direct ultraviolet measurement of memantine hydrochloride in tablets was developed, without any chemical derivatization pretreatment. Three main problems appear during chromatographic analysis of memantine: detection, achieving appropriate column retention, and limited choice of mobile phase components, as a result of memantine molecular structure. Among more than 35 tested columns, the best retention and peak symmetry yielded two C8 and three C18 columns with different characteristics, at a temperature of 30°C, mobile phase composed of 1%, v/v, acetonitrile and 99%, v/v, of 0.05–0.1% phosphoric acid or 2.5–5 mmol phosphate buffer, at flow rate of 1 mL/min and injection volume of 5 µL. The retention time of memantine was between 2.6 and 4 min. Both mobile phase concepts showed perfect linearity, precision, and accuracy. This is the first successful and reproducible direct reverse phase‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet quantification method for memantine.
Cervical Fibrosis as a Predictor of Dysphagia
Authors: Nachalon Yuval , Nativ‐Zeltzer Nogah , Evangelista Lisa M. , Dhar Shumon I. , Lin Sharon J. , Shen Shih C. , Belafsky Peter C.
Published: July 2020

Objective

Radiotherapy of head and neck cancer (HNCA) causes dysfunction through radiation‐induced fibrosis (RIF). We hypothesize that the degree of cervical fibrosis is associated with swallowing dysfunction. This study evaluated the association between cervical fibrosis and swallowing dysfunction in patients after radiation therapy for HNCA.

Study Design

Cross sectional study.

Methodology

A convenience sample of patients with dysphagia who were at least 1 year post radiation therapy for HNCA underwent simultaneous cervical ultrasound (US) and video‐fluroscopic swallow study (VFSS). US determinants of fibrosis were measurements of sternocleidomastoid fascia (SCMF) thickness bilaterally at the level of the cricoid. Primary and secondary outcome variables on VFSS were pharyngeal constriction ratio, a validated measure of pharyngeal contractility, and penetration aspiration scale (PAS). A qualitative assessment of lateral neck rotation was performed as a functional measure of neck fibrosis.

Results

Simultaneous cervical US and VFSS examinations were performed on 18 patients with a history of radiotherapy for HNCA and on eight controls. The mean (±SD) age of the entire cohort (N = 26) was 66 (±10) years. Individuals with a history of radiation had significantly thinner mean SCMF (0.26 [±0.04 mm]) compared to controls (0.48 [±0.06 mm]; P < .05). Individuals with thinner SCMF were more likely to have moderate to severe restriction in lateral neck rotation, a higher PCR, and a higher PAS (P < .05).

Conclusion

Thinner sternocleidomastoid fascia on ultrasound in patients having undergone radiotherapy for head and neck cancer was associated with reduced lateral neck movement, poorer pharyngeal constriction and greater penetration/aspiration scale. The data suggest that cervical fibrosis is associated with swallowing dysfunction in head and neck cancer survivors and support the notion that, “As the neck goes, so does the swallow.”

Level of Evidence

3. Laryngoscope, 131:548–552, 2021
Disruption of Sinonasal Epithelial Nrf2 Enhances Susceptibility to Rhinosinusitis in a Mouse Model
Authors: Ramanathan Murugappan , Tharakan Anuj , Sidhaye Venkataramana K. , Lane Andrew P. , Biswal Shyam , London Nyall R.
Published: July 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Oxidative stress has been postulated to play an important role in chronic rhinosinusitis. Nrf2 is a transcription factor that is involved in the regulation of multiple antioxidant genes, and its function has been previously shown to be important in sinonasal inflammation. Although the sinonasal implications of whole body Nrf2−/− has been reported, the function of sinonasal epithelial expression of Nrf2 has not been studied. The primary aim of this study was to generate a mouse model that is genetically deficient in epithelial‐specific Nrf2 and to understand its role in regulating sinonasal inflammation.

Study Design

Basic science.

Methods

An epithelial‐specific Nrf2 knockout mouse was generated by crossing Krt5‐cre(K5) with Nrf2flox/flox. A papain‐induced model of rhinosinusitis was performed in the resulting K5 Nrf2−/− mouse. Immunohistochemistry was performed to quantify goblet cell hyperplasia. Mucosal cellular infiltrates were quantified using flow cytometry, and tissue cytokines were measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Lastly, the cellular source of type 2 cytokines was determined using intracellular cytokine staining.

Results

Papain‐sensitized mice lacking epithelial‐specific Nrf2 demonstrate increased goblet cell hyperplasia, significant tissue eosinophilia, and statistically significant increase in mucosal IL‐13 when compared to Nrf2 wild‐type mice. Lastly, mucosal T cells were identified as the cellular source of IL‐13.

Conclusions

We demonstrate enhanced severity of eosinophilic sinonasal inflammation from disruption of the epithelial‐specific Nrf2 pathway. The responsiveness of Nrf2‐directed antioxidant pathways may act as a major determinant of susceptibility to eosinophilic inflammation and may have potential as a therapeutic target for chronic rhinosinusitis.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:713–719, 2021
Dual Transport of Active Substances with a Layer‐by‐Layer‐Based Drug Delivery System to Terminate Inflammatory Processes
Authors: Brueckner Mandy , Hollenbach‐Latzko Sebastian , Reibetanz Uta
Published: July 2020

Conventional therapies for chronic inflammation with high dose application of active agents are often accompanied with severe side effects so that other therapeutical strategies shall be developed to be less physically demanding but still highly efficient. Locally applied Layer‐by‐Layer (LbL) microcarriers transporting a low, but efficient dosage of active agents directly into the inflamed tissue offer a gentle therapy option. Here, the inhibition of highly degradative enzyme human neutrophile elastase (HNE) is adressed, which is produced and secreted by neutrophile granulocytes (PMNs) in the progress of inflammation. The protected transport and release of its natural inhibitor α1‐antitrypsin (AT) as a constituent of the microcarrier's biopolymer multilayer allows for an efficient inhibition of extra‐ and intracellular elastase. The HOCl scavenger molecule cefoperazone, which preserves AT activity, as an additional multilayer constituent induces a much higher efficacy of the inhibitor. The successful assembly of both agents in different layers of the multilayer and the subsequent HNE inhibition in PMNs is investigated. The parallel application of cefoperazone leads to an enhanced inhibitory effect even with reduced AT amount and reduced carrier:cell ratio. It is demonstrated that the modular assembly strategy of LbL carriers allows for efficient synergistic effect of active agents in inflammatory process.
Sulfonated RAFT Copolymers as Heparin Mimetics: Synthesis, Reactivity Ratios, and Anticoagulant Activity
Authors: Nahain Abdullah Al , Ignjatovic Vera , Monagle Paul , Tsanaktsidis John , Vamvounis George , Ferro Vito
Published: July 2020

The glycosaminoglycan heparin is a clinically important anticoagulant drug, primarily used to reduce the risk of blood clots (thrombosis) during surgery. Despite its importance in medicine and its continuous use over many decades, heparin suffers from several limitations associated with its heterogeneity and its extraction from animal tissues. In order to address these limitations, reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization is utilized to prepare a library of heparin mimetic copolymers from the sulfonated monomers sodium 4‐styrene sulfonate, potassium‐3‐sulfopropyl acrylate, potassium‐3‐sulfopropyl methacrylate, and sodium‐2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propane sulfonate. Copolymers are prepared using combinations of two different monomers in various ratios. Monomer reactivity ratios are also determined for some representative monomer combinations, and all polymers are characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. The anticoagulant activities of the copolymers are determined by activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombin clotting time assays and structure–activity relationships are explored.
Sharp bounds for finitely many embedded eigenvalues of perturbed Stark type operators
Authors: Liu Wencai
Published: July 2020

For perturbed Stark operators , the author has proved that must be larger than in order to create N linearly independent eigensolutions in [29]. In this paper, we apply generalized Wigner–von Neumann type functions to construct embedded eigenvalues for a class of Schrödinger operators, including a proof that the bound is sharp.
Targeting the Liver‐Brain Axis with Hop‐Derived Flavonoids Improves Lipid Metabolism and Cognitive Performance in Mice
Authors: Paraiso Ines L. , Revel Johana S. , Choi Jaewoo , Miranda Cristobal L. , Lak Parnian , Kioussi Chrissa , Bobe Gerd , Gombart Adrian F. , Raber Jacob , Maier Claudia S. , Stevens Jan F.
Published: July 2020

Scope

Sphingolipids including ceramides are implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity and insulin resistance. Correspondingly, inhibition of pro‐inflammatory and neurotoxic ceramide accumulation prevents obesity‐mediated insulin resistance and cognitive impairment. Increasing evidence suggests the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is involved in ceramide metabolism, as bile acid‐FXR crosstalk controls ceramide levels along the gut‐liver axis. The authors previously reported that FXR agonist xanthohumol (XN), the principal prenylated flavonoid in hops (Humulus lupulus), and its hydrogenated derivatives, α,β‐dihydroxanthohumol (DXN), and tetrahydroxanthohumol (TXN), ameliorated obesity‐mediated insulin resistance, and cognitive impairment in mice fed a high‐fat diet.

Methods and results

To better understand how the flavonoids improve both, lipid and bile acid profiles in the liver are analyzed, sphingolipid relative abundance in the hippocampus is measured, and linked them to metabolic and neurocognitive performance. XN, DXN, and TXN (30 mg kg−1 BW per day) decrease ceramide content in liver and hippocampus; the latter is linked to improvements in spatial learning and memory. In addition, XN, DXN, and TXN decrease hepatic cholesterol content by enhancing de novo synthesis of bile acids.

Conclusion

These observations suggest that XN, DXN, and TXN may alleviate obesity‐induced metabolic and neurocognitive impairments by targeting the liver‐brain axis.
The structural, optical, and morphological properties of NiO‐Cu prepared by spray pyrolysis technique
Authors: Mohamad Haidar J. , Abdul‐Husaain Yahyah Mustafa , Al‐Jarah Uday Ali Sabeeh
Published: July 2020

The technique of spray pyrolysis used to prepare the pure thin films NiO and NiO:Cu. In this study, the nickel chloride salt solution (NiCl2⋅6H2O) was used to fabricate thin films deposited on a glass substrate. The structural, optical, and morphological fabricated properties of the samples were investigated. X‐ray diffraction reveals a polycrystalline nickel oxide layer with a crystalline cubic form, with (111), (200), and (222). Atomic force microscopic studied the surface morphology of the thin‐film samples. The fabrication process of growth was at the specific doping ratio (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%) where all thin films had a cubic structure. The energy difference for the NiO and NiO:Cu reference samples have ranged from 3.25 to 3.5 eV. The mobility, magnetoresistance, resistivity, and conductivity were measured and presented as well as the relationship between current‐voltage and current‐resistivity.
In vivo 3D brain and extremity MRI at 50 mT using a permanent magnet Halbach array
Authors: O’Reilly Thomas , Teeuwisse Wouter M. , de Gans Danny , Koolstra Kirsten , Webb Andrew G.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To design a low‐cost, portable permanent magnet‐based MRI system capable of obtaining in vivo MR images within a reasonable scan time.

Methods

A discretized Halbach permanent magnet array with a clear bore diameter of 27 cm was designed for operation at 50 mT. Custom‐built gradient coils, RF coil, gradient amplifiers, and RF amplifier were integrated and tested on both phantoms and in vivo.

Results

Phantom results showed that the gradient nonlinearity in the y‐direction and z‐direction was less than 5% over a 15‐cm FOV and did not need correcting. For the x‐direction, it was significantly greater, but could be partially corrected in postprocessing. Three‐dimensional in vivo scans of the brain of a healthy volunteer using a turbo spin‐echo sequence were acquired at a spatial resolution of 4 × 4 × 4 mm in a time of about 2 minutes. The T1‐weighted and T2‐weighted scans showed a good degree of tissue contrast. In addition, in vivo scans of the knee of a healthy volunteer were acquired at a spatial resolution of about 3 × 2 × 2 mm within 12 minutes to show the applicability of the system to extremity imaging.

Conclusion

This work has shown that it is possible to construct a low‐field MRI unit with hardware components costing less than 10 000 Euros, which is able to acquire human images in vivo within a reasonable data‐acquisition time. The system has a high degree of portability with magnet weight of approximately 75 kg, gradient and RF amplifiers each 15 kg, gradient coils 10 kg, and spectrometer 5 kg.
Imaging microstructure with diffusion and susceptibility MR: neuronal density correlation in Disrupted‐in‐Schizophrenia‐1 mutant mice
Authors: Gong Nan‐Jie , Dibb Russell , Pletnikov Mikhail , Benner Eric , Liu Chunlei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To probe cerebral microstructural abnormalities and assess changes of neuronal density in Disrupted‐in‐Schizophrenia‐1 (DISC1) mice using non‐Gaussian diffusion and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM).

Materials and Methods

Brain specimens of transgenic DISC1 mice (n = 8) and control mice (n = 7) were scanned. Metrics of neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) and diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), as well as QSM, were acquired. Cell counting was performed on Nissl‐stained sections. Group differences of imaging metrics and cell density were assessed. Pearson correlations between imaging metrics and cell densities were also examined.

Results

Significant increases of neuronal density were observed in the hippocampus of DISC1 mice. DKI metrics such as mean kurtosis exhibited significant group differences in the caudate putamen (P = 0.015), cerebral cortex (P = 0.021), and hippocampus (P = 0.011). However, DKI metrics did not correlate with cell density. In contrast, significant positive correlation between density of neurons and the neurite density index of NODDI in the hippocampus was observed (r = 0.783, P = 0.007). Significant correlation between density of neurons and susceptibility (r = 0.657, P = 0.039), as well as between density of neuroglia and susceptibility (r = 0.750, P = 0.013), was also observed in the hippocampus.

Conclusion

The imaging metrics derived from DKI were not sensitive specifically to cell density, while NODDI could provide diffusion metrics sensitive to density of neurons. The magnetic susceptibility values derived from the QSM method can serve as a sensitive biomarker for quantifying neuronal density.
An analysis of the fees and pending time correlation in Ethereum
Authors: de Azevedo Sousa José Eduardo , Oliveira Vinícius , Valadares Júlia , Dias Gonçalves Glauber , Moraes Villela Saulo , Soares Bernardino Heder , Borges Vieira Alex
Published: July 2020

Ethereum is a new blockchain‐based platform that is also capable of running smart contracts. Despite its increasing popularity, there is a lack of studies on characterizing this system, in special the fees paid by users and the respective delay to confirm the transactions, that is, the pending time. In this sense, we study the main features of Ethereum transactions and evaluate the common belief—for blockchain systems that rely on proof of work—that users who pay higher fees will have their transactions confirmed faster. Specifically, we collect information about 7.2 million of transactions in Ethereum and correlate their pending time to several fee‐related features. Moreover, we conduct our study evaluating different ranges of values for the features, such as default and unusual values adopted by users as well as clusters of users with similar behaviors. Our empirical analysis shows strong evidence that there is no clear correlation between fees‐related features and the pending time. Overall, we conclude from our investigation that transaction's features, including gas and gas price defined by users, cannot determine the pending time of transactions.
Changes in Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Before and After Gestational Diabetes: A Prospective Life‐Course Analysis in CARDIA Women
Authors: Catov Janet M. , Sun Baiyang , Bertolet Marnie , Snyder Gabrielle G. , Lewis Cora E. , Allen Norrina B. , Shikany James M. , Ingram Katherine H. , Appiah Duke , Gunderson Erica P.
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study hypothesized that both preconception and postchildbearing patterns of cardiometabolic risk factors may be different for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) compared with women without GDM.

Methods

Among 1,302 (51% black) women in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study with births and followed for 30 years, this study evaluated changes in cardiometabolic factors (BMI, waist circumference [WC], lipids, blood pressure) during prechildbearing (prior to the first postbaseline birth) and postchildbearing periods (after the last birth) by GDM status using piecewise linear mixed models adjusted for sociodemographics, parity, and time‐varying covariates.

Results

Compared with women who did not develop GDM, weight and WC increases in women who developed GDM (n = 152, 12%) were faster (BMI difference: +0.12 kg/m2/y, P = 0.04; WC difference: +0.28 cm/y, P = 0.04) during the prechildbearing period, accounting for covariates. This translated to an average of 1.3 kg of excess weight gain across 4 years among women with subsequent GDM versus non‐GDM births. In contrast, slopes after childbearing did not differ by GDM status, nor were there other cardiometabolic differences.

Conclusions

Women with GDM exhibited an increasing prepregnancy pattern of weight gain and central adiposity. Absolute postchildbearing weight was also higher in GDM‐affected women, but the slope of gain after GDM was not.
Ghrelin Receptor Stimulation of the Lateral Parabrachial Nucleus in Rats Increases Food Intake but not Food Motivation
Authors: Bake Tina , Le May Marie V. , Edvardsson Christian E. , Vogel Heike , Bergström Ulrika , Albers Marjorie Nicholson , Skibicka Karolina P. , Farkas Imre , Liposits Zsolt , Dickson Suzanne L.
Published: July 2020

Objective

The lateral parabrachial nucleus (lPBN) in the brainstem has emerged as a key area involved in feeding control that is targeted by several circulating anorexigenic hormones. Here, the objective was to determine whether the lPBN is also a relevant site for the orexigenic hormone ghrelin, inspired by studies in mice and rats showing that there is an abundance of ghrelin receptors in this area.

Methods

This study first explored whether iPBN cells respond to ghrelin involving Fos mapping and electrophysiological studies in rats. Next, rats were injected acutely with ghrelin, a ghrelin receptor antagonist, or vehicle into the lPBN to investigate feeding‐linked behaviors.

Results

Curiously, ghrelin injection (intracerebroventricular or intravenous) increased Fos protein expression in the lPBN yet the predominant electrophysiological response was inhibitory. Intra‐lPBN ghrelin injection increased chow or high‐fat diet intake, whereas the antagonist decreased chow intake only. In a choice paradigm, intra‐lPBN ghrelin increased intake of chow but not lard or sucrose. Intra‐lPBN ghrelin did not alter progressive ratio lever pressing for sucrose or conditioned place preference for chocolate.

Conclusions

The lPBN is a novel locus from which ghrelin can alter consummatory behaviors (food intake and choice) but not appetitive behaviors (food reward and motivation).
Balanced physical properties for thermoplastic silicone vulcanizate‐based polymer composites containing functional filler
Authors: Pan Qinjun , Zhao Guojie , Deng Hua , Fu Qiang
Published: July 2020

Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) based on silicone rubber (SiR) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), as a class of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), are extensively applied in various fields due to their excellent performance such as remarkable mechanical properties, easy processability, recyclability, and so on. However, it is quite difficult to incorporate functional fillers into thermoplastic silicone vulcanizate (TPSiV) without largely influencing their mechanical performance due to the rather high content of SiR and delicate balance between structure and properties. Herein, some efforts are made to introduce functional filler such as multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into TPSiVs. It is illustrated that with increasing MWCNTs loading in TPSiV from 0 to 5 wt%, the percolation threshold was achieved when the content of MWCNTs was 2%. Nevertheless, the tensile strength decreases from 3.95 to 1.84 MPa and elongation at break decreases from 260% to 25.6%, respectively. To fabricate TPSiV/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) composites with balanced properties, TPU based on polyester and hydrophobic silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles were introduced into these materials to enhance the mechanical properties. Through this method, TPSiV/TPU/SiO2/CNTs composites with different levels of electrical conductivity, while maintaining good mechanical properties and processability were fabricated. It is illustrated that TPU could provide extra space for the distribution of MWCNTs and SiO2 could strength these polymer blends. Such method is thought to provide an effective route for the preparation of functional polymer composites based on TPSiV.
Chia seeds to develop new biodegradable polymers for food packaging: Properties and biodegradability
Authors: Fernandes Sibele S. , Romani Viviane Patrícia , da Silva Filipini Gabriel , G. Martins Vilásia
Published: July 2020

Chia seeds are a promising raw material for the development of biodegradable and edible polymers due to their composition and properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of drying process of chia mucilage (oven and freeze‐drying) and the incorporation of chia oil in films for food packaging. The films were formed by casting using chia mucilage and glycerol. The polymers developed were evaluated by physicochemical properties, microstructure, thermal properties, and biodegradation. The drying process of mucilage and oil incorporation in films affected mainly mechanical and color properties. Freeze‐dried mucilage resulted in superior mechanical performance. Differences were caused by the effect of drying process in the molecular structure of chia mucilage and the incorporation of oil among the polymer chains. Chia mucilage films were completely soluble in water and biodegraded in a short time in soil. These films are promising biodegradable polymers for the development of eco‐friendly food packaging and edible sachets for small pre‐measured portions, preventing environment pollution and facilitating product consumption.
Perspectives in the design and application of composites based on graphene derivatives and bio‐based polymers
Authors: Chen Siyu , Yang Kou , Leng Xuanye , Chen Musen , Novoselov Kostya S , Andreeva Daria V
Published: July 2020

Two‐dimensional materials (2DMs), especially graphene derivatives, have attracted a wide range of interest in science and technology because of their exceptional physical and chemical properties and large potential application areas in electrochemistry, photonics, bioengineering, electronics and membrane separation fields. Our review focuses on recent advances in the construction of new functional composites using graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and bio‐based macromolecules. The incorporation of bio‐based polymers into GO and rGO nanolayers provides a novel way to tailor the properties of 2DMs. Meanwhile, 2DMs/bio‐based polymer composites are sustainable and biocompatible. Benefiting from the combination of superior properties of both materials, they are endowed with new functions and new application areas. Here, we compare existing fabrication approaches for 2DMs/bio‐based polymer composites. Then, we highlight the properties of composites such as ionic conductivity, molecular transport, mechanical properties, biocompatibility and sustainability. Finally, we discuss recent progress in applications of 2DMs/bio‐based polymer composites for efficient ionic and molecular separation technologies, the construction of energy‐related devices including fuel cells and transistors, and biomedical engineering. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Supportive care for oral cancer survivors in COVID‐19 lockdown
Authors: Ratnasekera Nadisha , Perera Irosha , Kandapolaarachchige Pushpakumara , Surendra Gayan , Dantanarayana Ajith
Published: July 2020

Objective

Availability and accessibility to routine health care services for cancer patients were a cause of concern during the COVID‐19 pandemic, which induced stringent enforcement of lockdown and social distancing in Sri Lanka. Oral cancer patients who have undergone surgery recently encountered problems such as pain, difficulty in swallowing. However, accessing routine treatment and obtaining medication emerged as the most pressing concerns among them. Therefore, we aimed to provide supportive care for affected oral cancer patients.

Methods

A rapid situational analysis was conducted among 25‐randomly selected oral cancer patients of an ongoing interventional study aimed at improving life situation of oral cancer patients.

Results

Over‐the‐phone supportive care tailored to the needs of oral cancer patients, provided by a health professional, deemed a simple but helpful intervention.

Conclusions

Facilitating patients to navigate the health care system to ensure that they can continue in receiving timely treatment was the most critical aspect of the intervention. Interventions tailored to patients’ needs could offer better supportive care for cancer patients in COVID‐19 pandemic scenario.
Improving the Design and Evaluation of PDV‐Based Cylinder Test Experiments for JWL‐Parameter Determination
Authors: Baust Tobias M.
Published: July 2020

The cylinder test experiment is an excellent method to derive Jones‐Wilkins‐Lee‐parameters as the expansion work of the detonation products can be determined from the experimentally observed wall velocity by an analytic approach. However, the physical description of the problem is essential for a precise determination of the expansion work. A useful method to develop and validate such models is to perform hydrodynamic simulations. This work aims to provide an improved analytic model and to introduce a robust and accurate solver design to calculate JWL‐parameters in combination with an optimization of the experimental setup. An extended version of an already accurate literature model is presented, where the air gap is taken into account within the balance equations. Moreover, the surface angle of the cylinder wall is determined from geometric considerations instead of preliminary simulations for conventional explosives. Besides, an own empiric approach for the strain model is introduced, which leads to a smaller deviation between the expansion work from the cylinder test simulation and the calculated expansion work for the underlying equation of state. Regarding the derivation of JWL‐parameters and the determination of the Chapman‐Jouguet‐pressure, the complete workflow, including the global numerical optimization method, is described in detail and the accuracy and robustness of the solver are proven. The entire workflow is validated for different (full‐wall) geometries and conventional explosives to verify that the method scales. Finally, geometric considerations for the placement of the PDV‐gauges are provided to optimize the design and geometry of cylinder test experiments.
Curcumin downregulates the PI3K–AKT–mTOR pathway and inhibits growth and progression in head and neck cancer cells
Authors: Borges Gabriel Alvares , Elias Silvia Taveira , Amorim Bruna , de Lima Caroline Lourenço , Coletta Ricardo Della , Castilho Rogerio Moraes , Squarize Cristiane Helena , Guerra Eliete Neves Silva
Published: July 2020

Curcumin, a polyphenol isolated from the rhizome of Curcuma longa, has been studied because of its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiinflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of curcumin on head and neck cancer (HNC) cell lines and how it modulates the PI3K–AKT–mTOR signaling pathway. Dose‐response curves for curcumin were established for hypopharynx carcinoma (FaDu), tongue carcinoma (SCC‐9), and keratinocytes (HaCaT) cell lines and IC50 values were calculated. Cell cycle and cell death were investigated through flow cytometry. Cytoskeleton organization was assessed through phalloidin+FITC staining. qPCR array and western blot were performed to analyze gene and protein expression. Curcumin reduced cell viability in a dose‐dependent and selective manner, induced cell death on SCC‐9 cells (necrosis/late apoptosis: 44% curcumin vs. 16.4% vehicle), and arrested cell cycle at phase G2/M on SCC‐9 and FaDu (G2: SCC‐9—19.1% curcumin vs. 13.4% vehicle; FaDu—37.8% curcumin vs. 12.9% vehicle). Disorganized cytoskeleton and altered cell morphology were observed. Furthermore, curcumin downregulated the PI3K–AKT–mTOR signaling pathway by modifying the expression of key genes and proteins. These findings highlight the promising therapeutic potential of curcumin to inhibit HNC growth and progression and to modulate the PI3K–AKT–mTOR pathway.
Electrospray ionization rapid screening sans liquid chromatography column: A sensitive method for detection and quantification of chemicals in animal tissues and urine
Authors: Chakrabarty Shubhashis , Shelver Weilin L. , Smith David J.
Published: July 2020

Rationale

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) in conjunction with liquid chromatography (LC) can provide accurate quantitative data, but it is not well‐suited for the rapid screening (RS) of analytes incurred into complex matrices. This study was designed to determine the usefulness of ESI for rapid detection and quantitation of veterinary drugs from complex biological matrices under near real‐time conditions.

Methods

Nine veterinary drugs or metabolites, clenbuterol, erythromycin, flunixin, 5‐hydroxyflunixin, meloxicam, ractopamine, salbutamol, tylosin and zilpaterol, present in cow urine, sheep urine, sheep tissues (kidney, muscle, liver and lung) or pig kidney, were simultaneously analyzed. A simple sample clean‐up procedure, which included dilution with 10% sodium carbonate followed by extraction with ethyl acetate, was used. For tissues, an additional pre‐extraction with hexane was performed to remove fat prior to MS analysis. Samples were introduced into the mass spectrometer through the LC autosampler, but no chromatographic separation was employed. A Sciex 5600+ triple time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer with a dual‐spray source interfaced with a Shimadzu Nexera LC system was used. Samples were analyzed in positive ion mode.

Results

Sample extraction times were typically 10–30 min or less and instrumental analysis time was 1 min/sample. Regression coefficients of matrix‐matched standard curves across all compounds ranged from 0.9701–0.9999 in urine (cow and sheep) and tissues (sheep kidney, liver, lung, muscle and pig kidney). Limits of detection ranged from 0.11 to 2.03 ng/mL across analytes in urine and 0.11 to 8.86 ng/g across tissues. Correlations between RS‐ESI‐MS and LC/MS/MS results were 0.956 to 0.998 for incurred residues of flunixin in cow urine, ractopamine in pig kidney and zilpaterol in sheep urine.

Conclusions

RS‐ESI‐MS provided rapid, sensitive, and accurate analyses of nine veterinary drugs from complex matrices with very little sample preparation and produced quantitative data akin to LC/MS/MS.
Data‐driven dimension reduction in functional principal component analysis identifying the change‐point in functional data
Authors: Banerjee Buddhananda , Laha Arnab K. , Lakra Arjun
Published: July 2020

Functional principal component analysis (FPCA) is the most commonly used technique to analyze infinite‐dimensional functional data in finite lower‐dimensional space for the ease of computational intensity. However, the power of a test detecting the existence of a change‐point falls with the inclusion of more principal dimensions explaining a larger proportion of variability. We propose a new methodology for dynamically selecting the dimensions in FPCA that are used further for the testing of the existence of any change‐point in the given data. This data‐driven and efficient approach leads to a more powerful test than those available in the literature. We illustrate this method on the monthly global average anomaly of temperatures.
Dual pH/ROS‐Responsive Nanoplatform with Deep Tumor Penetration and Self‐Amplified Drug Release for Enhancing Tumor Chemotherapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Li Yongfei , Chen Mie , Yao Bowen , Lu Xun , Song Boyang , Vasilatos Shauna N. , Zhang Xiang , Ren Xiaomei , Yao Chang , Bian Weihe , Sun Lizhu
Published: July 2020

Poor deep tumor penetration and incomplete intracellular drug release remain challenges for antitumor nanomedicine application in clinical settings. Herein, a nanomedicine (RLPA‐NPs) is developed that can achieve prolonged blood circulation, deep tumor penetration, active‐targeting of cancer cells, endosome/lysosome escape, and intracellular selectivity self‐amplified drug release for effective drug delivery. The RLPA‐NPs are constructed by encapsulation of a pH‐sensitive polymer octadecylamine‐poly(aspartate‐1‐(3‐aminopropyl) imidazole) (OA‐P(Asp‐API)) and a ROS‐generation agent, β‐Lapachone (Lap), in micelles assembled by the tumor‐penetration peptide internalizing RGD (iRGD)‐modified ROS‐responsive paclitaxel (PTX)‐prodrug. iRGD could promote RLPA‐NPs penetration into deep tumor tissue, and specific targeting to cancer cells. After internalization by cancer cells through receptor‐mediated endocytosis, OA‐P(Asp‐API) can rapidly protonate in the endosome's acidic environment, resulting in RLPA‐NPs escape from the endosome through the “proton sponge effect”. At the same time, the RLPA‐NPs micelle disassembles, releasing Lap and PTX‐prodrug. Subsequently, the released Lap could generate ROS, consequently amplifying and accelerating PTX release to kill tumor cells. The in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that RLPA‐NPs can significantly improve the therapeutic effect compared to control groups. Therefore, RLPA‐NPs are a promising nanoplatform for overcoming multiple physiological and pathological barriers to enhance drug delivery.
Efficient Oxygen Evolution and Gas Bubble Release Achieved by a Low Gas Bubble Adhesive Iron–Nickel Vanadate Electrocatalyst
Authors: Dastafkan Kamran , Meyer Quentin , Chen Xianjue , Zhao Chuan
Published: July 2020

Surface chemistry is a pivotal prerequisite besides catalyst composition toward advanced water electrolysis. Here, an evident enhancement of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is demonstrated on a vanadate‐modified iron–nickel catalyst synthesized by a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction method, which demonstrates ultralow overpotentials of 274 and 310 mV for delivering large current densities of 100 and 400 mA cm−2, respectively, in 1 m KOH, where vigorous gas bubble evolution occurs. Vanadate modification augments the OER activity by i) increasing the electrochemical surface area and intrinsic activity of the active sites, ii) having an electronic interplay with Fe and Ni catalytic centers, and iii) inducing a high surface wettability and a low‐gas bubble‐adhesion for accelerated mass transport and gas bubble dissipation at large current densities. Ex situ and operando Raman study reveals the structural evolution of β‐NiOOH and γ‐FeOOH phases during the OER through vanadate‐active site synergistic interactions. Operando dynamic specific resistance measurement evidences an accelerated gas bubble dissipation by a significant decrease in the variation of the interfacial resistance during the OER for the vanadate‐modified surface. Achievement of a high catalytic turnover of 0.12 s−1 suggests metallic oxo‐anion modification as a versatile catalyst design strategy for advanced water oxidation.
The Sca-1+ and Sca-1− mouse prostatic luminal cell lineages are independently sustained
Authors: Kwon Oh-Joon , Choi Jong Min , Zhang Li , Jia Deyong , Wei Xing , Li Zhouyihan , Zhang Yiqun , Jung Sung Yun , Creighton Chad J. , Xin Li
Published: July 2020

The phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of the mouse prostate epithelial cell lineages remains incompletely characterized. We show that the Sca-1+ luminal cells at the mouse proximal prostate express Sox2. These cells are replicative quiescent, castration resistant, and do not possess secretory function. We use the Probasin-CreERT2 and Sox2-CreERT2 models in concert with a fluorescent reporter line to label the Sca-1− and Sca-1+ luminal cells, respectively. By a lineage tracing approach, we show that the two luminal cell populations are independently sustained. Sox2 is dispensable for the maintenance of the Sca-1+ luminal cells but is essential for their facultative bipotent differentiation capacity. The Sca-1+ luminal cells share molecular features with the human TACSTD2+ luminal cells. This study corroborates the heterogeneity of the mouse prostate luminal cell lineage and shows that the adult mouse prostate luminal cell lineage is maintained by distinct cellular entities rather than a single progenitor population.
A Real‐Time Data Processing Method Based on Orthogonal Phase‐Locked Amplification and Its Application in Frequency Domain Semi‐Airborne Electromagnetic Detection
Authors: Li Gang , Zhang Chunfeng , Liu Naijia , Liu Changsheng
Published: July 2020

In the frequency domain semi‐airborne electromagnetic detection method, the receiving signal from the coil sensor contains a quantity of noise. In order to improve signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), a novel data processing method based on orthogonal phase‐locked amplification is proposed in this paper. By using GPS second‐pulse technology, the proposed method has good real‐time performance and high SNR. The amplitude and phase of the receiving signals can be easily resolved by simple arithmetical operation and stored in real time, which avoids the large error in the short‐term window signal. The proposed method can provide higher resolution in subsurface anomaly and better noise suppression capability. The measured results show that the proposed method amplitude error is less than 3%, and the phase error is less than 0.6° under the condition of double white noise. Noise suppression capability is 10 times of the existing system and resolution is up to 25 times. The smaller anomaly can be reflected more accurately. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Nonlinear Stochastic Optimal Control with Input Saturation Constraints Based on Path Integrals
Authors: Satoh Satoshi , Kappen Hilbert J.
Published: July 2020

This paper is concerned with a finite‐time nonlinear stochastic optimal control problem with input saturation as a hard constraint on the control input. The stochastic Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (SHJB) equation associated with this problem is derived, and a concrete solution method is also presented by extending an iteration framework of path integral stochastic optimal control. This is the first result that provides an optimal feedback control rigorously satisfying the saturation constraint as a solution to the SHJB equation. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
ModifiedDPWMMethod for Vienna Rectifier Considering Current Harmonic Distortions Reduction and Neutral Point Potential Balance
Authors: Huang Hai‐hong , Ding Chao , Li Er‐wei
Published: July 2020

A Vienna rectifier has been widely applied when power density is a design objective and usually works with a high switching frequency. Therefore, it is necessary to decrease the switching loss to reduce the temperature of the device. Discontinuous pulse width modulation (DPWM) is able to reduce the switching loss of power of the device. However, the five‐stage vector synthesis method of DPWM will increase the current harmonics. To reduce the current harmonic distortions caused by the DPWM method and reduce the switching loss of a Vienna rectifier, a modified DPWM modulation method with minimum switching loss for a Vienna rectifier is proposed in this paper, and the reduction of current harmonic is achieved by injecting the optimal zero‐sequence component into three‐phase modulation waves in the subsectors at the large‐sector transitional area. Furthermore, the three‐level topology has a problem of unbalanced neutral point potential. By changing the clamp mode in each subsector leading to different currents, leading to the neutral point, the neutral point potential is balanced. Finally, all these proposed modulation and control strategies are verified by simulation and experiment results. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Discovering the entrepreneurial micro‐ecosystem: The case of a corporate accelerator
Authors: Banc Constance , Messeghem Karim
Published: July 2020

Faced with a proliferation of initiatives like corporate accelerators, entrepreneurial ecosystems see emerge new spaces that we can call entrepreneurial micro‐ecosystems. A micro‐ecosystem is a local open system interacting with the entrepreneurial ecosystem and driven by an actor or group of actors capable of fostering dynamics of innovation and entrepreneurship. The literature has tended to focus on the macro and meso levels leaving behind the microlevel and the strategies implemented by the actors that could lead to the creation of micro‐ecosystems. In this study, we consider corporate accelerators, still little studied, as entrepreneurial micro‐ecosystems. We propose to take a structural and strategic approach in order to better understand the attributes and the strategies put in place by these actors from a multilevel approach. A qualitative study was conducted on a corporate accelerator and the results reveal the importance of strategic attributes in terms of legitimacy, coopetition, and business model.
Augmented oxidative stress and reduced mitochondrial function in ageing goat testis
Authors: Majrashi Mohammed , Fujihashi Ayaka , Almaghrabi Mohammed , Fadan Maali , Fahoury Eddie , Ramesh Sindhu , Govindarajulu Manoj , Beamon Haley , Bradford Chastity N. , Bolden‐Tiller Olga , Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan
Published: July 2020

Recently, there is a significant increase in the commercial use of goat products. Nevertheless, there are very few reports on the characterization of redox biomarkers and mitochondrial function in the goat testis. Therefore, in this study we studied the markers of oxidative stress and mitochondrial functions in the goat testis during the process of ageing. Alterations in the markers of oxidative stress/redox biomarkers (contents of reactive oxygen species, nitrite, lipid peroxide, protein carbonyl, glutathione and activities of glutathione peroxidase, monoamine oxidase) and mitochondrial function (Complex‐I and Complex‐IV activities) were elucidated during the process of ageing. Augmented oxidative stress and decreased mitochondrial function were prominent during ageing in the goat testis. Ageing can lead to induction of oxidative stress and decreased production of ATP; however, the prooxidants generated must be effectively removed from the body by the innate antioxidant defence system to minimize the damage to the host tissue. Conversely, the antioxidants cannot completely scavenge the excessive amount of reactive oxygen species produced during ageing or pathological conditions leading to significant cell death and tissue damage. Thus, the use of effective and potent antioxidants in the feed could significantly reduce oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function, resulting in enriched goat health.