bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Modified Clinicopathological Conference as a Potential Learning Teaching Activity for Civilian and Army Medical Students and House Officers
Authors: Kutty Prameela Kannan , Bakar Muhamad Abu , Reddy Sagili Chandrasekhara
Published: May 2020

The clinicopathological conference (CPC), a novel learning teaching activity, consciously integrates by clinical reasoning, to arrive at the final diagnosis of a selected case. This process traditionally involves case selection, presentation of the history and the clinical findings, interpretation of investigations, discussion of differential diagnoses with final diagnosis, followed by an energetic discussion of relevant aspects of the case and its management.

This article discusses a modified CPC, a potential educational activity for undergraduate medical students and house officers in general, with its conceptual ideas based on our pilot activity, contributing to the literature of the CPC because it highlights novel aspects of discussion used and indeed plausible, in our medical school that trains both civilian and army doctors. This academic exercise, involving preclinical and clinical specialists in a multidisciplinary environment uniquely incorporates other bodies that work together for patient care in a military hospital. The discussion embraces some views from personnel in charge of social work and administrators which could be furthered, enriching the holistic learning teaching experience of all attendees.

As the learning and teaching of medicine adapts to contemporary demands, sustained efforts and commitment from organizers and participants of such a discussion contributes constructively towards the advancement of medical education. The modified CPC as presented here is an innovative platform possibly emulated for flexibility of approach, content and delivery and for its potentials in the learning and teaching of young doctors and trainees.
Effect of Oral Administration of Ibuprofen on Prothrombin Time, Activated Partial Thromboplastin and Platelet Count in Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Esima Jonathan , Zorte Abraham , Donatus O. Onwuli, , Anthony Waribo, Helen
Published: May 2020

Aim: Ibuprofen is analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory drug, which is widely used as a cheap over- the counter drug (OTC); however, this drug accompanies anti coagulation/anti platelets effects which sometimes might illicit adverse effects. In this study, we investigated effect of ibuprofen on prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and platelet count using wistar albino rats.

Methods: A total of 21 rats grouped into 3(control, acute and chronic exposure groups, with all consisting of 7 rats each) was used. The acute and chronic exposure group were given 0.7 mg of ibuprofen orally for 1 and 21 days, respectively. Blood sample was collected via cardiac puncture then analyzed.

Results: PT was significantly higher in both group 2 and 3 (acute and chronic exposure, respectively) than that of the control. Acute exposure group showed the highest PT rise. A PTT was not significantly different between group 2 and 3 versus the control group. Platelet count was significantly lower in both group 2 and 3than that in the control group (p<0.05). Group 3 (chronic exposure) showed the lowest platelet count.

Conclusion: Oral administration of ibuprofen affected coagulation parameters and a longer exposure reduce platelets count. A strictly prescription for this drug may be needed to prevent its indiscriminate use.
The neuronal transcription factor Myt1L interacts via a conserved motif with the PAH1 domain of Sin3 to recruit the Sin3L/Rpd3L histone deacetylase complex
Authors: Marcum Ryan Dale , Radhakrishnan Ishwar
Published: May 2020

The Sin3L/Rpd3L histone deacetylase (HDAC) complex is one of six major HDAC complexes in the nucleus, and its recruitment by promoter‐bound transcription factors is an important step in many gene transcription regulatory pathways. Here, we investigate how the Myt1L zinc finger transcription factor, important for neuronal differentiation and the maintenance of neuronal identity, recruits this complex at the molecular level. We show that Myt1L, through a highly conserved segment shared with its paralogs, interacts directly and specifically with the Sin3 PAH1 domain, binding principally to the canonical hydrophobic cleft found in paired amphipathic helix domain (PAH) domains. Our findings are relevant not only for other members of the Myt family but also for enhancing our understanding of the rules of protein–protein interactions involving Sin3 PAH domains.
Photobiomodulation of human osteoblast‐like cells in vitro by low‐intensity‐pulsed LED light
Authors: Rosenberg Nahum , Gendelman Raya , Noofi Nesreen
Published: May 2020

Visible light irradiation is an emerging area in regenerative medicine research. We hypothesized that low‐intensity‐pulsed LED light irradiance may exert photobiomodulatory effects on cultured osteoblast‐like cells. To test this hypothesis, we investigated cell proliferation and markers of cell maturation and metabolic activity following pulsed LED irradiance. Monolayer explant cultures of human osteoblast‐like cells were exposed four times in 24‐h intervals to 2 min of pulsed white LED irradiance of 2.4–2.5 mW·cm−2 and its different spectra of 0.2–0.5 mW·cm−2 (frequency range of 10–40 Hz). Cell proliferation was estimated from microscopic cell counting and cell death by lactate dehydrogenase activity in culture media (measured by a colorimetric method). The early markers of osteoblast maturation and metabolic activity, that is, cellular alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin content, were measured using a colorimetric method and ELISA, respectively. Irradiance of 40 Hz caused the highest increase in cell number (P < 0.01). Osteocalcin content in cells decreased following 40 Hz and 10 Hz irradiance (P < 0.05). The 40 Hz blue range irradiance (diffuse transmittance 420–580 nm, maximal cell irradiance 0.5 mW·cm−2) caused a decrease in alkaline phosphatase cellular activity (P < 0.001) and an increase in media osteocalcin content (P < 0.05). The 40 Hz green range (diffuse transmittance 560–650 nm, maximal cell irradiance 0.4 mW·cm−2) irradiance caused an increase in the number of cells and in cell death. In summary, pulsed (40 Hz) white light irradiance has photomodulatory effects, with its green range spectrum affecting cell proliferation and cell death, and its blue range spectrum affecting cellular maturation and metabolism. The results indicate a low‐intensity threshold of photobiomodulation of osteoblast‐like cells in vitro.
3D Printed Stackable Titer Plate Inserts Supporting Three Interconnected Tissue Models for Drug Transport Studies
Authors: Leth Jepsen Morten , Willumsen Andreas , Mazzoni Chiara , Boisen Anja , Hagner Nielsen Line , Dufva Martin
Published: May 2020

Current in vitro drug screening methods often rely on single‐cell models and are therefore imprecise in predicting drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity. This study presents a method to fabricate 3D printed inserts that are compatible with commercially available titer plates. Hydrogels can be casted into the inserts and cells can be cultured either in or on the hydrogels. Once individual cell cultures are fully differentiated, the three different cell cultures are stacked on top of each other for biological experiments. To show the possibilities of this approach, three tissue models representing the first pass metabolism is used. The three tissue models are based on gelatin hydrogels and Caco‐2, HUVEC, and HepG2 cells to simulate the small intestine, vascular endothelium, and liver, respectively. The device is simple to fabricate, user friendly, and an alternative to microfluidic‐based organ on a chip systems. The presented first pass metabolism study allows for gaining information on drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and, in the future, excretion in one compact device complying the micro titer plate format.
Investigating TNS4 in the Colorectal Tumor Microenvironment Using 3D Spheroid Models of Invasion
Authors: Raposo Teresa P. , Susanti Susanti , Ilyas Mohammad
Published: May 2020

TNS4 (Tensin 4 or Cten) is a putative oncogene in colorectal cancer (CRC) with a role in regulating cell adhesion, motility, invasion, and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). The objective is to study the role of TNS4 in CRC using more realistic models of the tumor microenvironment. CRC cells expressing TdTomato protein and shTNS4/shLUC hairpin oligos are grown in 3D spheroids with and without cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Adhesiveness to collagen I and CAFs is assessed in 2D and cell proliferation, volume, and invasion are assessed in 3D conditions. The role of TNS4 knockdown in gefitinib chemosensitivity and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Ras protein levels are also tested. In general, TNS4 knockdown increases cell proliferation in cell lines producing compact spheroids. The addition of CAFs in spheroids supports CRC cell proliferation, whereas CAFs themselves do not proliferate, but increases ECM degradation. TNS4 knockdown reduces adhesiveness and 3D invasion and disrupts EGFR signaling which results in increased sensitivity to Gefitinib. In conclusion, in a 3D spheroid model, TNS4 inhibits cell proliferation and promotes cell invasion into the ECM, possibly by adhesion to the ECM and stromal cells. TNS4 knockdown enhances sensitivity to the EGFR inhibitor gefitinib and may be helpful for Kirsten ras oncogene homolog mutant CRC patients.
Perspective of Printed Solid‐State Ion Sensors toward High Sensitivity and Selectivity
Authors: Bao Chao , Kim Woo Soo
Published: May 2020

Ion‐selective field‐effect transistors (ISFETs) are integrated device systems with transistors and ion‐selective electrodes. The printed ISFET's sensing mechanisms are discussed. Then, different sensitive membranes linked with ISFETs are highlighted. To achieve high sensitivity and selectivity of ISFETs, various printing methods have been introduced recently. The real‐time monitoring sensing applications, such as ion detection in health, food safety, and environmental sectors, are discussed with the highlight on the biological applications for the cost‐efficient detection of DNA molecules. Finally, the challenges of the ISFETs are considered and illustrated with the proposed perspectives.
Ultrafast Photonic Soldering with Sn–58Bi Using Intense Pulsed Light Energy
Authors: Jung Kwang-Ho , Min Kyung Deuk , Lee Choong-Jae , Jeong Haksan , Kim Jae-Ha , Jung Seung-Boo
Published: May 2020

Solders, which are the most commonly used materials in electronic packaging, have been widely used for electrical interconnections. When producing a solder joint, a layer is formed on the contact pad, followed by a reflow process conducted using infrared or thermal energy. This process requires a high‐temperature environment and long heating time. Herein, an advanced approach involving photonic soldering using intense pulsed light (IPL) energy is examined thoroughly. In particular, the relation between the bonding characteristics and pulse conditions, such as the energy, frequency, and number, for the development of ultrafast, low‐damage, and large‐area bonding technology is studied. Compared with the conventional reflow, IPL soldering requires a process time of only ≈2.5% and can improve the strength by 40%. Fracture micrographs after the die shear test indicate an interfacial fracture after conventional reflow and a mixed fracture after IPL soldering; this results in the consumption of the Cu layer after the time‐consuming reaction in the reflow and the formation of an extremely refined region in the solder joint after irradiation with IPL energy. Because of its improvement with respect to the process and bonding characteristics, IPL soldering can be a candidate for innovative interconnections in microelectronics.
High‐Performance Overall CO2 Splitting on Hierarchical Structured Cobalt Disulfide with Partially Removed Sulfur Edges
Authors: Han Zhen , Hu Qi , Cheng Zhong , Li Guomin , Huang Xiaowan , Wang Ziyu , Yang Hengpan , Ren Xiangzhong , Zhang Qianling , Liu Jianhong , He Chuanxin
Published: May 2020

The ability to develop bifunctional electrocatalysts for concurrent CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is the key to the practical application of CO2 splitting to produce CO. However, this remains a grand challenge. Herein, a robust strategy to rationally craft hierarchical structured bifunctional electrocatalysts composed of 3D CoS2 nanocages interconnected on 2D CoS2 nanosheet arrays (denoted hierarchical CoS2 nanocages) for high‐performance CO2 splitting is developed. The subsequent calcination removes the partial S edges of CoS2, thereby strongly suppressing the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) of CoS2. By combining theoretic and experimental results, for the first time, it is discovered that the plane S of CoS2, instead of S edges, are highly active for CO2RR but inactive for HER, rendering the plane S as ideal active sites for CO2RR. Intriguingly, the composition tuning via calcination and the presence of a hierarchical architecture confer hierarchical CoS2 nanocages respective outstanding CO2RR and OER performance. Notably, the hierarchical CoS2 nanocages can be exploited as bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall CO2 splitting to yield the current density of 1 mA cm−2 at a small cell voltage of 1.92 V, much lower than the widely reported values (>2.5 V).
A Battery‐ and Leadless Heart‐Worn Pacemaker Strategy
Authors: Yi Zhiran , Xie Feng , Tian Yingwei , Li Ning , Dong Xiaoxue , Ma Ye , Huang Yue , Hu Yili , Xu Xiaobin , Qu Dan , Lang Xilong , Xu Zhiyun , Liu Jingquan , Zhang Hao , Yang Bin
Published: May 2020

Over the past half‐century, cardiac pacing technology has adhered to one basic system. However, many pacemaker‐related complications are related to this system, particularly in terms of the power supply and leads. Here, for the first time a heart‐worn pacemaker strategy is presented, which allows batteryless powering and leadless pacing. The batteryless feature is attained via heart‐extrusion energy scavenging through a micromachined piezoelectric thick film transducer. A record in vivo output current of 30 µA is obtained in an adult swine by the implanted piezoelectric transducer, which can effectively drive a commercial cardiac pacemaker. The exocardial pacing method is demonstrated by this batteryless pacemaker functions without a device or leads placed within the cardiac chambers. Lead‐ or batteryless options are being explored as new basic features of cardiac pacemakers. The presented heart‐worn pacemaker strategy may be useful in future pacing technology.
A Nitric Oxide (NO) Nanoreporter for Noninvasive Real‐Time Imaging of Macrophage Immunotherapy
Authors: Ramesh Anujan , Kumar Sahana , Brouillard Anthony , Nandi Dipika , Kulkarni Ashish
Published: May 2020

Macrophage‐centered therapeutic approaches that rely on immune modulation of tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) from a pro‐tumorigenic phenotype (M2) to an anti‐tumorigenic phenotype (M1) have facilitated a paradigm shift in macrophage immunotherapy. However, limited clinical success has been achieved due to the low response rates observed in different types of cancers. The ability to measure immune response in real time is critical in order to differentiate responders from non‐responders; however, there are currently no platforms to monitor real‐time macrophage immunotherapy response. Hence, there is an immediate need to develop imaging techniques that can longitudinally monitor macrophage immunotherapy response. Nitric oxide (NO) produced as a result of activation of macrophages to an anti‐tumorigenic state is considered as a hallmark of M1 and can be a direct indication of response. In this study, a NO nanoreporter (NO‐NR) is reported that enables real‐time monitoring of macrophage immunotherapy drugs in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, it is observed that sustained inhibition of colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) using a CSF1R inhibitor–NO‐NR system leads to enhanced efficacy and better imaging signal. In conclusion, a first‐of‐its‐kind NO nanoreporter tool is reported that can be used as an activatable imaging agent to monitor macrophage immunotherapy response in real time.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Effect Enhanced CsPbBr3 Inverse Opals for High‐Performance Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Hui , Zhou Shujie , Yin Longwei
Published: May 2020

Although all‐inorganic CsPbBr3 are considered an ideal candidate for inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) owing to their outstanding thermal‐ and moisture‐resistance, it still suffers from unfavorable charge transfer process and limited light harvesting ability. Herein, CsPbBr3 inverse opal (IO) films coupled with Au nanoparticles (NPs) are rationally designed, and PSCs based on Au‐CsPbBr3 IO achieve a stabilized photoelectric conversion efficiency up to 8.08%. By selectively tuning IO pore diameter, the slow photon region of CsPbBr3 IO and localized surface plasmon resonance (SPR) region from Au NPs can be modulated to be overlapped to enhance the performance of inorganic CsPbBr3 PSCs. The synergetic effect devotes to light utilization and charge transfer process, resulting in an enhanced light absorption capability and suppressed recombination rate of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. The introduction of Au not only triggers SPR effect, but also enhances efficient separation/injection of charge carriers owing to the Schottky barriers. Furthermore, it is revealed that simultaneous effect from SPR and IO photon effect are conducive to reduce exciton binding energy, enhancing exciton dissociation efficiency and leading to significant increase in free carrier density. This work provides a rational strategy for plasmonic metal/semiconductor composite light‐absorber for high‐performance inorganic PSCs.
Ionic Liquid‐Assisted Anchoring SnO2 Nanoparticles on Carbon Nanotubes as Highly Cyclable Anode of Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Kuiming , Zhu Shengming , Dong Xufeng , Huang Hao , Qi Min
Published: May 2020

The commercialization of SnO2‐based anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) has been hindered by the huge volume change and fast capacity fading. Ionic liquid (IL)‐assisted strategy for the synthesis of SnO2@IL‐modified carbon nanotubes (SnO2@IL–carbon nanotubes (CNTs)) hybrid nanostructure is proposed with the SnO2 nanoparticles uniformly and strongly grafting on the CNTs. With low surface tension, IL as the solvent is beneficial to the dispersion of CNTs and the formation of small SnO2 nanoparticles, thus improving the interface contact between SnO2 and CNTs. Furthermore, the interface interaction can be also strengthened by IL‐assisted interface modification, substantially facilitating the electron/ion transport in SnO2 and meanwhile preventing its continuous volume change during lithiation. When used as the anode for LIBs, SnO2@IL–CNTs achieve a high reversible capacity of 1438.1 mA h g−1 with an excellent cycling stability (800 cycles).
Intrinsic Silicon Buffer Layer Improves Hole‐Collecting Poly‐Si Passivating Contact
Authors: Kang Jingxuan , Liu Wenzhu , Allen Thomas , De Bastiani Michele , Yang Xinbo , De Wolf Stefaan
Published: May 2020

Passivating contacts consisting of doped polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si) on a thin tunnel‐oxide enable excellent operating voltages for crystalline silicon solar cells. However, hole‐collecting contacts based on boron‐doped poly‐Si do not yet reach their full surface‐passivation potential, likely due to boron diffusion during annealing. In this work, the authors show how the insertion of a thin intrinsic silicon buffer layer between the silicon oxide and poly‐Si is effective in improving the contact passivation. By tailoring the microstructure of the buffer layer, the chemical passivation and contact resistivity are simultaneously significantly improved. On device level, the buffer layer enables a ≈30 mV open‐circuit voltage enhancement and 1.4% absolute gain in power conversion efficiency.
The Interior Failure of Single‐Layer Graphene Activated by the Nanosized Asperity on the Substrate Surface
Authors: Huang Zhewei , Lin Qiang , Ji Zhe , Chen Sulin , Shen Bin
Published: May 2020

The influence of the nanosized asperity on the wear resistance of the single‐layer graphene (SLG) is investigated by an atomic force microscope. For the SLG on the polished diamond substrate, a 15 nm high asperity underneath it can cause a significant reduction of the critical contact pressure initializing the failure in its interior region from 43.75 to 8.31 GPa (calculated by the Derjaguin–Muller–Toporov model). The SLG fails at the inclined surface with a larger inclination angle around the bump region at first due to the increased shearing strength and the introduced lattice strain. Then, the fracture of graphene occurs at the newly formed step edges and rapidly propagates along the scanning path, which finally results in a complete failure of the SLG. The findings in this study reveal that the surface asperity on the substrate may be one of the factors that lead to the sharp discrepancy between the nanoscopically ultrastrong strength and the macroscopically weak wear resistance of graphene.
High‐Responsivity Mid‐Infrared Black Phosphorus Slow Light Waveguide Photodetector
Authors: Ma Yiming , Dong Bowei , Wei Jingxuan , Chang Yuhua , Huang Li , Ang Kah‐Wee , Lee Chengkuo
Published: May 2020

Black phosphorus (BP) offers unique opportunities for mid‐infrared (MIR) waveguide photodetectors due to its narrow direct bandgap and layered lattice structure. Further miniaturization of the photodetector will improve operation speed, signal‐to‐noise ratio, and internal quantum efficiency. However, it is challenging to maintain high responsivities in miniaturized BP waveguide photodetectors because of reduced light–matter interaction lengths. To address this issue, a method utilizing the slow light effect in photonic crystal waveguides (PhCWGs) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. A shared‐BP photonic system is proposed and utilized to fairly and precisely characterize the slow light enhancement. Close to the band edge around 3.8 µm, the responsivity is enhanced by more than tenfold in the BP photodetector on a 10 µm long PhCWG as compared with the counterpart on a subwavelength grating waveguide. At a 0.5 V bias, the BP PhCWG photodetector achieves a 11.31 A W−1 responsivity and a 0.012 nW Hz−1/2 noise equivalent power. The trap‐induced photoconductive gain is validated as both the dominant photoresponse mechanism and the major limiting factor of the response speed. The BP slow light waveguide photodetector is envisioned to realize miniaturized high‐performance on‐chip MIR systems for widespread applications including environmental monitoring, industrial process control, and medical diagnostics.
Body‐Integrated, Enzyme‐Triggered Degradable, Silk‐Based Mechanical Sensors for Customized Health/Fitness Monitoring and In Situ Treatment
Authors: Zhang Shan , Zhou Zhitao , Zhong Junjie , Shi Zhifeng , Mao Ying , Tao Tiger H.
Published: May 2020

Mechanical signals such as pressure and strain reflect important psychological and physiological states of the human body. Body‐integrated sensors, including skin‐mounted and surgically implanted ones, allow personalized health monitoring for the general population as well as patients. However, the development of such measuring devices has been hindered by the strict requirements for human‐biocompatible materials and the need for high performance sensors; most existing devices or sensors do not meet all the desired specifications. Here, a set of flexible, stretchable, wearable, implantable, and degradable mechanical sensors is reported with excellent mechanical robustness and compliance, outstanding biocompatibility, remotely‐triggered degradation, and excellent sensing performance, using a conductive silk fibroin hydrogel (CSFH). They can detect multiple mechanical signals such as pressure, strain, and bending angles. Moreover, combined with a drug‐loaded silk‐based microneedle array, sensor‐equipped devices are shown to be effective for real‐time monitoring and in situ treatment of epilepsy in a rodent model. These sensors offer potential applications in custom health monitoring wearables, and in situ treatment of chronic clinical disorders.
Discovery of New Polymorphs of Gallium Oxides with Particle Swarm Optimization‐Based Structure Searches
Authors: Wang Xue , Faizan Muhammad , Na Guangren , He Xin , Fu YuHao , Zhang Lijun
Published: May 2020

Gallium oxide (Ga2O3) has attracted significant research interest for next‐generation high‐efficiency power devices because of its unique electronic properties such as ultra‐wide band gap, high breakdown electric field, and large Baliga’s figure of merit. Ga2O3 crystallizes in a series of reported polymorphs including β‐, α‐, ε‐, κ‐, γ‐, and δ‐Ga2O3, the structures of some of which are still in serious controversy. A polymorph structure search study of Ga2O3 is herein performed by combining particle swarm optimization with first‐principles energetic calculations. In addition to producing the predominant experimental known phases of β‐, α‐, and κ‐Ga2O3, two new polymorphs are found with space group P and Pmc21 consisting of four‐ and five‐fold coordinated Ga. They show comparable energy with β‐ and α‐Ga2O3 with the energy difference of several meV per atom, and exhibit robust phonon stability. Similarly, the new phases show quite wide band gaps and small electron effective masses by comparing it with other known phases. The Pmc21 phase shows a calculated spontaneous polarization of 0.277 C m−2, close to that of ε/κ‐Ga2O3. The systemic structure searches also establish a structural relationship between ε‐Ga2O3 and κ‐Ga2O3 and how the electronic properties vary with polymorphic phase change.
Exploring Polarization in US Food Policy Opinions
Authors: Biedny Christina , Malone Trey , Lusk Jayson L.
Published: May 2020

Many maintain that the US political climate has become more charged with partisan beliefs over the past decade, although little is known about whether this partisan divide can be observed in food policy opinions. This article aims to determine whether Democrat and Republican food policy opinions diverged between 2011 and 2018. We find evidence of the contrary; partisan public opinions on food and agriculture policies have actually converged, with both major parties exhibiting a preference toward heightened government intervention. Our results indicate that voters preferring more government intervention in food policies have become more numerous in the Republican Party for issues including animal welfare and affordable food. However, once we include Independents and other third parties in our sample, we find that the variance between food policy opinions has increased for many policies.
Dependence of zeolite topology on alkane diffusion inside diverse channels
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Zhou Jian , Tang Xiaomin , Liu Fujian , Yuan Jiamin , Li Guangchao , Huang Ling , Krishna Rajamani , Huang Kuan , Zheng Anmin
Published: May 2020

Zeolites have been widely used for the processes of adsorption, separation, and catalysis, which are strongly correlated with molecular diffusion. However, the correlation between pore dimension and diffusion properties has not been systematically investigated so far. In this work, the diffusion properties of alkanes in six zeolites with similar pore sizes but different pore dimension have been examined. It is found that the diffusion coefficients of alkanes in zeolites are 2–5 orders of magnitude smaller than that in gas phase. Moreover, the diffusion of alkanes inside zeolites is sensitive to the pore dimension, and can be differentiated by 1‐D straight, 1‐D tortuous, and 3‐D intersecting channels, based on the derived quantitative correlation between the diffusion behavior and pore dimension. Our work may not only provide deep insights into the effects of pore dimension on diffusion, but also benefits for the future design and practical applications of zeolite catalysts.
Quantum Key‐Distribution Protocols Based on a Quantum Version of the Monty Hall Game
Authors: Quezada Luis Fernando , Dong Shi‐Hai
Published: May 2020

This work illustrates a possible application of quantum game theory to the area of quantum information, in particular to quantum cryptography. The study proposed two quantum key‐distribution (QKD) protocols based on the quantum version of the Monty Hall game devised by Flitney and Abbott. Unlike most QKD protocols, in which the bits from which the key is going to be extracted are encoded in a basis choice (as in BB84), these are encoded in an operation choice. The first proposed protocol uses qutrits to describe the state of the system and the same game operators proposed by Flitney and Abbott. The motivation behind the second proposal is to simplify a possible physical implementation by adapting the formalism of the qutrit protocol to use qubits and simple logical quantum gates. In both protocols, the security relies on the violation of a Bell‐type inequality, for two qutrits and for six qubits in each case. Results show a higher ratio of violation than the E91 protocol.
Colorimetric strategy for ascorbic acid detection based on the oxidase‐like activity of silver nanoparticle single‐walled carbon nanotube composites
Authors: Li Feifei , Yu Yajie , Xiao Fubing , Liang Hao , Liu Can , Fan Pengfei , Yang Shengyuan
Published: May 2020

A colorimetric assay for the determination and quantification of ascorbic acid (AA) is presented using silver nanoparticle (AgNP) single‐walled carbon nanotube (AgNP/SWCNT) nanocomposites prepared using a microwave‐assisted method. The AgNP/SWCNT nanocomposites possessed oxidase‐like properties toward 3,3′,5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and could catalyze the oxidation of TMB to form a blue oxidation product (λmax = 652 nm) in the absence of H2O2. AA can specifically inhibit the oxidation of TMB, resulting in a decline of the absorbance value and blue colour fading. As such, amounts of AA can be assessed easily by the unaided eye and quantitatively using an ultraviolet–visible light spectrophotometer. Under the optimal reaction conditions, this strategy showed a good linearity ranging from 0.4 μM to 5.0 μM for AA detection, and the limit of detection was 130 nM. This assay was also applied for AA measurement in vitamin C tablets and juice samples that yielded satisfactory results.
Long-term outcomes after perioperative treatment with omega-3 fatty acid supplements in colorectal cancer
Authors: Sørensen L Schmidt , Rasmussen S Ladefoged , Calder P C , Yilmaz M Nytoft , Schmidt E Berg , Thorlacius-Ussing O
Published: May 2020

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of perioperative supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) on perioperative outcomes and survival in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

Methods

Patients scheduled for elective resection of colorectal cancer between 2007 and 2010 were randomized to either an n-3 FA-enriched oral nutrition supplement (ONS) twice daily or a standard ONS (control) for 7 days before and after surgery. Outcome measures, including postoperative complications, 3-year cumulative incidence of local or metastatic colorectal cancer recurrence and 5-year overall survival, were compared between the groups.

Results

Of 148 patients enrolled in the study, 125 (65 patients receiving n-3 FA-enriched ONS and 60 receiving standard ONS) were analysed. There were no differences in postoperative complications after surgery (P = 0·544). The risk of disease recurrence at 3 years was similar (relative risk 1·66, 95 per cent c.i. 0·65 to 4·26). The 5-year survival rate of patients treated with n-3 FA was 69·2 (95 per cent c.i. 56·5 to 78·9) per cent, compared with 81·7 (69·3 to 89·4) per cent in the control group (P = 0·193). After adjustment for age, stage of disease and adjuvant chemotherapy, n-3 FA was associated with higher mortality compared with controls (hazard ratio 1·73, 95 per cent c.i. 1·06 to 2·83; P = 0·029). The interaction between n-3 FA and adjuvant chemotherapy was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Perioperative supplementation with n-3 FA did not confer a survival benefit in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. n-3 FA did not benefit the subgroup of patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy or decrease the risk of disease recurrence.
Evaluating the eighth edition TNM staging system for esophageal cancer among patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy: A SEER study
Authors: Yuan Yonggang , Ma Ge , Hu Xuelei , Huang Qingyuan
Published: May 2020

Background

The evaluation of the eighth edition of ypTNM staging system for patients with esophageal cancer was limited in the setting of neoadjuvant therapy.

Methods

A total of 2324 patients with esophageal cancer receiving radio(chemo)therapy prior to surgery from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 2004 and 2013 were eligible for the analysis. Kaplan‐Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate overall survivals.

Results

Among patients with preoperative therapy, both the seventh edition TNM grouping and the eighth edition ypTNM grouping could significantly stratify the overall survival (both log‐rank P < .001). There was not significant difference in the C‐index of the seventh edition TNM grouping (0.575; 95%CI, 0.558‐0.593) and the eighth edition ypTNM grouping (0.569; 95%CI, 0.551‐0.587) (P = .098). In multivariable Cox analysis, ypN category was the strongest predictor of overall survival (P < .001), followed by tumor grade (HR, 1.33; 95%CI, 1.12‐1.56; P = .001). The combination of ypT, ypN, and ypG categories yielded significantly higher C‐index (0.591; 95%CI, 0.573‐0.609) than that of the seventh edition TNM staging (P = .024).

Conclusion

Tumor grade remained an independent predictor of overall survival in the setting of neoadjuvant therapy, and could improve the performance of ypTNM staging system.
Expression of Concern: LncRNA TUG1 facilitates proliferation, invasion and stemness of ovarian cancer cell via miR‐186‐5p/ZEB1 axis
Authors: Zhan Fu‐Liang , Chen Chun‐Fang , Yao Mei‐Zhen
Published: May 2020

LncRNA TUG1 has been rarely studied in ovarian cancer (OC), our objective was to explore the role of TUG1 in the regulation of malignant phenotypes of OC. Vectors of sh‐TUG1, miR‐186‐5p and pcDNA‐ZEB1 were, respectively, constructed and used to infect OC cells. MTT and transwell assays were applied for representing cell proliferation and invasion, respectively. Sphere formation experiment was used to detect the stemness of OC cells. Western blotting and qRT‐PCR were employed for detecting the expression of multiple biomarkers on protein and RNA levels, respectively. The luciferase assay was performed to reveal the interactions between miR‐186‐5p and TUG1 or ZEB1. The silencing of TUG1 and upregulation of miR‐186‐5p both suppressed the cell proliferation, invasion and cancer stem cell (CSC) properties. Additionally, luciferase assay verified that miR‐186‐5p directly binds TUG1 and ZEB1. Moreover, overexpression of ZEB1 rescued the impact on the proliferation, invasion and stemness of TUG1 silencing in OC. TUG1 sponges miR‐186‐5p to release ZEB1 and promotes the proliferation, invasion and stemness of OC cells, suggesting that TUG1 could be a potential therapeutic target for OC therapy.

Significance of the study

LncRNA TUG1 could promote proliferation, invasion and stemness of ovarian cancer cells. Our study first discovered that TUG1 play a tumourigenic role in ovarian cancer by regulating stemness of cancer cells. Mechanism research exhibited the regulation role of TUG1 in ovarian cancer cells was miR‐186‐5p/ZEB1 axis depended. These results provided a new perspective to understand the pathogenesis and development of ovarian cancer; it will offer new evidence for better diagnosis and treatment therapy of ovarian cancer.
Current and Optimal Dimensions Predictions for a Porous Micro‐Electrode
Authors: Le Tien D. , Lasseux Didier
Published: May 2020

The expression of the current delivered by a cylindrical porous micro‐electrode operating a single heterogeneous reaction and mass diffusion of the reagent is analytically derived in this work from a complete solution of the diffusion/reaction macroscopic problem. This solution is valid regardless of the aspect (thickness to inner radius) ratio. It encompasses the hybrid solution reported elsewhere, valid only when this ratio remains small compared to unity, and, consequently, the case of a planar electrode as well. The asymptotic form of the solution in this latter case is also provided. The complete solution is used to predict the optimal thickness of the electrode and its optimal inner radius (i. e. the supporting wire radius) corresponding to the best compromise between a minimum electrode volume and a maximum current per unit volume. This work hence provides a complete optimization procedure that can be used as predictive tools for the design of porous electrodes.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Copper(I) Complex Catalyzed Coupling of (Hetero)aryl Chlorides and Nitrogen Heterocycles: Highly Efficient Catalytic System
Authors: Zhang Mengyao , Zhang Yingying , Zhang Huixin , Zeng Yongfei , Liu Guiyan
Published: May 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

A highly efficient catalytic system for the N‐arylation reactions of (hetero)aryl chlorides and nitrogen heterocycles with a copper(I) complex containing a 1,10‐phenanthroline analogue N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) has been reported. The complex was characterized by 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis, and its structure was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The NHC‐copper(I) complex was employed as pre‐catalyst for Ullmann type N‐arylation reactions of (hetero)aryl chlorides with various azoles. A variety of hindered and functionalized azoles and (hetero)aryl chlorides were transformed in good to excellent yields.
Safe chemistry lessons – the check of substitute substances and the check of substitute procedures
Authors: Klemeyer Horst
Published: May 2020

Die Ersatzstoff‐ und Ersatzverfahrensprüfung sind zugleich wesentliche Formalien des Gefahrstoffrechts und notwendige Instrumente der Chemielehrkräfte, um den experimentellen Chemieunterricht aktuellen Anforderungen, die sich aus einem Fachraumwechsel, geänderten Lerngruppen oder verschärften GHS‐Einstufungen von Stoffen ergeben können, anzupassen. Anhand von drei Fallbeispielen wird aufgezeigt, welche Rolle dabei das Freisetzungsverhalten bei der Ersatzstoff‐ und Ersatzverfahrensprüfung spielen kann. Es wird eine pragmatische Vorgehensweise beschrieben, bei der man anhand einer abgebildeten Tabelle oder einer frei zugänglichen Exceldatei Versuchsvorschriften mittels eines durchgehend vernachlässigbaren Freisetzungsverhaltens aller beteiligten Gefahrstoffe so optimiert, dass sie robust gegenüber dem Wechsel eines Fachraums, einer Verschärfung der GHS‐Einstufung bezüglich der Inhalationsgefahren und der Senkung des Arbeitsplatzgrenzwertes (AGW) sind. Zudem wird auf die Bedeutung der Ersatzstoffprüfung auch bei Aufgaben im Haushalt hingewiesen. Unfälle im Haushalt mit brennbaren Flüssigkeiten oder giftigen Gasen aus Sanitärreinigern werden sicherlich seltener, wenn bereits in der Schule die Fähigkeit zur einfachen Ersatzstoffprüfung vermittelt wird.
Mammography screening reduces rates of advanced and fatal breast cancers: Results in 549,091 women
Authors: Duffy Stephen W. , Tabár László , Yen Amy Ming‐Fang , Dean Peter B. , Smith Robert A. , Jonsson Håkan , Törnberg Sven , Chen Sam Li‐Sheng , Chiu Sherry Yueh‐Hsia , Fann Jean Ching‐Yuan , Ku May Mei‐Sheng , Wu Wendy Yi‐Ying , Hsu Chen‐Yang , Chen Yu‐Ching , Svane Gunilla , Azavedo Edward , Grundström Helene , Sundén Per , Leifland Karin , Frodis Ewa , Ramos Joakim , Epstein Birgitta , Åkerlund Anders , Sundbom Ann , Bordás Pál , Wallin Hans , Starck Leena , Björkgren Annika , Carlson Stina , Fredriksson Irma , Ahlgren Johan , Öhman Daniel , Holmberg Lars , Chen Tony Hsiu‐Hsi
Published: May 2020

Background

It is of paramount importance to evaluate the impact of participation in organized mammography service screening independently from changes in breast cancer treatment. This can be done by measuring the incidence of fatal breast cancer, which is based on the date of diagnosis and not on the date of death.

Methods

Among 549,091 women, covering approximately 30% of the Swedish screening‐eligible population, the authors calculated the incidence rates of 2473 breast cancers that were fatal within 10 years after diagnosis and the incidence rates of 9737 advanced breast cancers. Data regarding each breast cancer diagnosis and the cause and date of death of each breast cancer case were gathered from national Swedish registries. Tumor characteristics were collected from regional cancer centers. Aggregated data concerning invitation and participation were provided by Sectra Medical Systems AB. Incidence rates were analyzed using Poisson regression.

Results

Women who participated in mammography screening had a statistically significant 41% reduction in their risk of dying of breast cancer within 10 years (relative risk, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.51‐0.68 [P < .001]) and a 25% reduction in the rate of advanced breast cancers (relative risk, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.66‐0.84 [P < .001]).

Conclusions

Substantial reductions in the incidence rate of breast cancers that were fatal within 10 years after diagnosis and in the advanced breast cancer rate were found in this contemporaneous comparison of women participating versus those not participating in screening. These benefits appeared to be independent of recent changes in treatment regimens.
Automated Motion Tracking and Data Extraction for Red Blood Cell Biomechanics
Authors: Kumar Arun , Schmidt Brendan R. , Sanchez Zyrina Alura C. , Yazar Feyza , Davis Ronald W. , Ramasubramanian Anand K. , Saha Amit K.
Published: May 2020

Red blood cell biomechanics can provide us with a deeper understanding of macroscopic physiology and have the potential of being used for diagnostic purposes. In diseases like sickle cell anemia and malaria, reduced red blood cell deformability can be used as a biomarker, leading to further assays and diagnoses. A microfluidic system is useful for studying these biomechanical properties. We can observe detailed red blood cell mechanical behavior as they flow through microcapillaries using high‐speed imaging and microscopy. Microfluidic devices are advantageous over traditional methods because they can serve as high‐throughput tests. However, to rapidly analyze thousands of cells, there is a need for powerful image processing tools and software automation. We describe a workflow process using Image‐Pro to identify and track red blood cells in a video, take measurements, and export the data for use in statistical analysis tools. The information in this protocol can be applied to large‐scale blood studies where entire cell populations need to be analyzed from many cohorts of donors. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Enhancing raw video for motion tracking

Basic Protocol 2: Extracting motion tracking data from enhanced video
Sulfonylureas and Metformin Were Not Associated With an Increased Rate of Serious Bleeding in Warfarin Users: A Self‐Controlled Case Series Study
Authors: Nam Young Hee , Han Xu , Brensinger Colleen M. , Bilker Warren B. , Leonard Charles E. , Hennessy Sean
Published: May 2020

Drug interactions between warfarin and sulfonylureas are suggested by pharmacokinetic information and prior studies. However, clinical evidence on the association of such interactions and the risk of bleeding is lacking. Using healthcare claims data from 5 US Medicaid programs from 1999–2011 and a self‐controlled case series design with warfarin as an object drug, we calculated confounder‐adjusted rate ratios (RRs) for concomitant use of sulfonylureas and metformin for 3 outcomes separately: (i) serious bleeding as a composite outcome of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) and nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH); (ii) GIB; and (iii) ICH. In 6,463 warfarin users experiencing serious bleeding, an increased rate of serious bleeding was not associated with concomitant use of glimepiride (RR: 0.93; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–1.15), glipizide (RR: 0.97; 95% CI 0.84–1.13), glyburide (RR: 0.89; 95% CI 0.76–1.06), or metformin (RR: 0.85; 95% CI 0.76–0.96), nor was the occurrence of the component outcomes of GIB or ICH. These results suggest that use of sulfonylureas or metformin was not associated with an increased rate of serious bleeding in warfarin users.
Vascular and metabolic effects of metformin added to insulin therapy in patients with type 1 diabetes: A systematic review andmeta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Ying‐Shan , Chen Chu‐Na , Chen Zhen‐Guo , Peng Yu , Lin Xiao‐Pu , Xu Ling‐Ling
Published: May 2020

Background

The incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is increasing among youth worldwide, translating to an increased risk ofearly‐onset cardiovascular disease (CVD). Mounting studies have shown that metformin may reduce maximal carotidintima‐media thickness (cIMT), improve insulin resistance and metabolic control in subjects with T1DM, and thus, may extend cardioprotective benefits. This systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed to assess the efficacy and safety of metformin added to insulin therapy on reducing CVD risks and improving metabolism in T1DM.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared metformin and insulin combination (duration ≥3 months) to insulin treatment alone in T1DM. Data were expressed as weighted/standardized mean differences (MDs/SMDs) for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RRs) for dichotomous outcomes, along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) was used to evaluate the overall certainty of the evidence.

Results

Nineteen RCTs (n = 1540) met the eligibility criteria. Metformin treatment significantly reduced carotid artery intima‐media thickness (MD −0.06 mm [95% CI −0.88, −0.28],P< .001). Though no significant difference was found in insulin sensitivity (SMD 2.21 [95% CI −1.88, 6.29],P= .29), the total daily insulin dosage (SMD −0.81 [95% CI −1.25, −0.36],P< .001) along with traditional CVD risk factors showed improvement by better glycaemic control, partial lipid profiles, diastolic blood pressure, and limited weight gain, with neutral effect on diabetic ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, and hypoglycaemia. However, metformin therapy increased the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events.

Conclusions

Metformin with insulin has the potential to retard the progression of atherosclerosis and provides better metabolic control in patients with T1DM, and thus, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with T1DM on reducing CVD risks.