bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of tau pathology identified with 18F‐MK‐6240 PET imaging
Authors: Kreisl William Charles , Lao Patrick J. , Johnson Aubrey , Tomljanovic Zeljko , Klein Julia , Polly Krista , Maas Benjamin , Laing Krystal K. , Chesebro Anthony G. , Igwe Kay , Razlighi Qolamreza R. , Honig Lawrence S. , Yan Xinyu , Lee Seonjoo , Mintz Akiva , Luchsinger José A. , Stern Yaakov , Devanand D. P. , Brickman Adam M.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging for neurofibrillary tau allows investigation of the in vivo spatiotemporal progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. We evaluated the suitability of 18F‐MK‐6240 in a clinical sample and determined the relationships among 18F‐MK‐6240 binding, age, cognition, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)‐based AD biomarkers.

Methods

Participants (n = 101, 72 ± 9 years, 52% women) underwent amyloid PET, tau PET, structural T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging, and neuropsychological evaluation. Twenty‐one participants had lumbar puncture for CSF measurement of amyloid beta (Aβ)42, tau, and phosphorylated tau (p‐tau).

Results

18F‐MK‐6240 recapitulated Braak staging and correlated with CSF tau and p‐tau, normalized to Aβ42. 18F‐MK‐6240 negatively correlated with age across Braak regions in amyloid‐positive participants, consistent with greater tau pathology in earlier onset AD. Domain‐specific, regional patterns of 18F‐MK‐6240 binding were associated with reduced memory, executive, and language performance, but only in amyloid‐positive participants.

Discussion

18F‐MK‐6240 can approximate Braak staging across the AD continuum and provide region‐dependent insights into biomarker‐based AD models.
Mitochondrial ROS control neuronal excitability and cell fate in frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Esteras Noemí , Kopach Olga , Maiolino Marta , Lariccia Vincenzo , Amoroso Salvatore , Qamar Seema , Wray Selina , Rusakov Dmitri A. , Jaganjac Morana , Abramov Andrey Y.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The second most common form of early‐onset dementia—frontotemporal dementia (FTD)—is often characterized by the aggregation of the microtubule‐associated protein tau. Here we studied the mechanism of tau‐induced neuronal dysfunction in neurons with the FTD‐related 10+16 MAPT mutation.

Methods

Live imaging, electrophysiology, and redox proteomics were used in 10+16 induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived neurons and a model of tau spreading in primary cultures.

Results

Overproduction of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in 10+16 neurons alters the trafficking of specific glutamate receptor subunits via redox regulation. Increased surface expression of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) and N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors containing GluA1 and NR2B subunits leads to impaired glutamatergic signaling, calcium overload, and excitotoxicity. Mitochondrial antioxidants restore the altered response and prevent neuronal death. Importantly, extracellular 4R tau induces the same pathological response in healthy neurons, thus proposing a mechanism for disease propagation.

Discussion

These results demonstrate mitochondrial ROS modulate glutamatergic signaling in FTD, and suggest a new therapeutic strategy.
Intrathecal Immunoglobulin M Synthesis is an Independent Biomarker for Higher Disease Activity and Severity in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Oechtering Johanna , Schaedelin Sabine , Benkert Pascal , Müller Stefanie , Achtnichts Lutz , Vehoff Jochen , Disanto Giulio , Findling Oliver , Fischer‐Barnicol Bettina , Orleth Annette , Chan Andrew , Pot Caroline , Barakovic Muhamed , Rahmanzadeh Reza , Galbusera Riccardo , Heijnen Ingmar , Lalive Patrice H. , Wuerfel Jens , Subramaniam Suvitha , Aeschbacher Stefanie , Conen David , Naegelin Yvonne , Maceski Aleksandra , Meier Stephanie , Berger Klaus , Wiendl Heinz , Lincke Therese , Lieb Johanna , Yaldizli Özgür , Sinnecker Tim , Derfuss Tobias , Regeniter Axel , Zecca Chiara , Gobbi Claudio , Kappos Ludwig , Granziera Cristina , Leppert David , Kuhle Jens ,   and for the Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Cohort Study
Published: May 2021

Objective

We aimed to determine in relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) whether intrathecal synthesis of immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG is associated with outcomes reflecting inflammatory activity and chronic worsening.

Methods

We compared cerebrospinal fluid analysis, clinical and magnetic resonance imaging data, and serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels at baseline and follow‐up in 530 patients with relapsing MS. Patients were categorized by the presence of oligoclonal IgG bands (OCGB) and intrathecal synthesis of IgG and IgM (intrathecal fraction [IF]: IgGIF and IgMIF). Relationships with the time to first relapse, sNfL concentrations, T2‐weighted (T2w) lesions, MS Severity Score (MSSS), and time to initiation of high‐efficacy therapy were analyzed in covariate‐adjusted statistical models.

Results

By categorical analysis, in patients with IgMIF the median time to first relapse was 28 months shorter and MSSS on average higher by 1.11 steps compared with patients without intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis. Moreover, patients with IgMIF had higher sNfL concentrations, more new/enlarging T2w lesions, and higher total T2w lesion counts (all p ≤ 0.01). These associations were absent or equally smaller in patients who were positive for only OCGB or OCGB/IgGIF. Furthermore, quantitative analyses revealed that in patients with IgMIF ≥ median, the time to first relapse and to initiation of high‐efficacy therapy was shorter by 32 and by 203 months, respectively (both p < 0.01), in comparison to patients with IgMIF < median. Dose‐dependent associations were also found for IgMIF but not for IgGIF with magnetic resonance imaging‐defined disease activity and sNfL.

Interpretation

This large study supports the value of intrathecal IgM synthesis as an independent biomarker of disease activity and severity in relapsing MS. ANN NEUROL 2021;90:477–489
Ultrasmall Nanocapsules Obtained by Controlling Ostwald Ripening
Authors: Doan‐Nguyen Thao P. , Jiang Shuai , Koynov Kaloian , Landfester Katharina , Crespy Daniel
Published: May 2021

We describe here a method to synthesize ultrasmall nanocapsules with a diameter of 6 nm, exhibiting a well‐defined core–shell morphology. Remarkably, the nanocapules are synthesized in a miniemulsion process without the need of large amounts of surfactant as commonly used in the microemulsion process. Ultrasmall nanocapsules with an oil core and a silica shell are formed by the concurrent processes of a sol–gel reaction and Ostwald ripening. Using solvents with different water solubilities and alkoxysilanes with different reactivities, we demonstrate that sizes of obtained nanocapsules depend on the ripening rate and alkoxysilane conversion rate. The method can be also used for encapsulating natural oils such as peppermint oil and limonene. This work shows that the Ostwald ripening phenomenon can be employed beneficially for the preparation of very small colloids.
Synthesis of Rhodium Complexes with Chiral Diene Ligands via Diastereoselective Coordination and Their Application in the Asymmetric Insertion of Diazo Compounds into E−H Bonds
Authors: Ankudinov Nikita M. , Chusov Denis A. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Perekalin Dmitry S.
Published: May 2021

A new method for the synthesis of chiral diene rhodium catalysts is introduced. The readily available racemic tetrafluorobenzobarrelene complexes [(R2‐TFB)RhCl]2 were separated into two enantiomers via selective coordination of one of them with the auxiliary S‐salicyl‐oxazoline ligand. One of the resulting chiral complexes with an exceptionally bulky diene ligand [(R,R‐iPr2‐TFB)RhCl]2 was an efficient catalyst for the asymmetric insertion of diazoesters into B−H and Si−H bonds giving the functionalized organoboranes and silanes with high yields (79–97 %) and enantiomeric purity (87–98 % ee). The stereoselectivity of separation via auxiliary ligand and that of the catalytic reaction was predicted by DFT calculations.
Theoretical and experimental investigations of new bis (amino triazole) schiff base ligand: Preparation of its UO2(II), Er (III), and La (III) complexes, studying of their antibacterial, anticancer, and molecular docking
Authors: Deghadi Reem G. , Abbas Ashraf A. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: May 2021

UO2(II), Er (III), and La (III) complexes were prepared from new bis (amino triazole) Schiff base ligand. The ligand was synthesized by condensation of 1,3‐bis(4‐amino‐5‐phenyl‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐ylsulfanyl)propane with benzaldehyde. The structure of the prepared compounds was confirmed by some spectroscopic tools such as1H‐NMR, UV‐Vis, and IR, as well as molar conductance, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential thermogravimetric (DTG), and differential thermal analysis (DTA) studies. The data revealed coordination of the complexes with tetradentate Schiff base. All complexes were octahedral. Computational studies for the prepared ligand by using DFT/B3LYP method were reported. The theoretical results described its bond lengths, angles, and dipole moment, and other parameters were calculated. The theoretical studies were supported the experimental data of the ligand and confirmed its successful preparation. Also, their antibacterial activities against four types of bacteria species (Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Escherichia coli,Bacillus subtilis, andStaphylococcus aureus) were investigated. The prepared complexes were biologically active compounds. The synthesized compounds were estimated for their anticancer activities against two cell lines (MCF‐7 and HepG2). The lowest IC50values were 17.6 and 23 μM for uranyl complex against MCF‐7 and ligand against HepG2 cell lines, respectively, which make them very important materials as anticancer drugs in the future researches. Finally, molecular docking studies were checked up for all prepared compounds with different protein receptors (3HB5 and 2GYT) to confirm their anticancer activities data.
Poly (vinyl alcohol)/polylactic acid blend film with enhanced processability, compatibility, and mechanical property fabricated via melt processing
Authors: Liu Zhaogang , Lu Hongchao , Zhang Huili , Li Li
Published: May 2021

Poly (vinyl alcohol)/polylactic acid (PVA/PLA) blend film, which is environment friendly and has potential applications in food and electronic packaging fields, was fabricated by melt extrusion casting. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirmed the formation of the hydrogen bonding between PLA and PVA, which improved the compatibility of PLA with PVA, making PLA uniformly dispersed in PVA matrix as small spheres, even when PLA content increase to 15 wt%. In this way, the original hydrogen bond network among PVA was disturbed and the chain mobility of PVA was activated, endowing PVA/PLA blends with lower melt viscosity than bot modified PVA and PLA, and the blend films with the increased crystallinity, mechanical property, and water resistance. Compared with PVA film, the crystallinity, tensile strength and Young's modulus of the blend film with 15 wt% PLA, respectively, increased by 15.1%, 9 and 51 MPa, and the water contact angle enlarged from 23° to 60°.
Monotone convergence rate of norm‐optimal‐gain‐arguable iterative learning control for LDTI systems
Authors: Ruan Xiaoe , Liu Yan
Published: May 2021

For a class of repetitive linear discrete‐time‐invariant (LDTI) systems, this paper exploits a norm‐optimal‐gain‐arguable iterative learning control (NOGAILC) scheme. For the scheme, the sequential performance index is additive quadratic norms of the tracking error vector and the incremental input vector, while the argument is the iteration‐time‐variable learning‐gain vector. To balance the importance of the incremental input vector and the tracking error vector, the sequential tuning factors are concerned. By means of matrix theory, the learning‐gain vector and the convergence rate are explicated that indicate that both the tracking error and the optimal performance index are linearly monotonically convergent and the NOGAILC with a smaller tuning factor delivers a faster convergence. Further, for the system parameters existing uncertainties, a quasi‐NOGAILC profile is established and the time‐domain rigorous derivation conveys that the quasi‐scheme is linearly monotonically convergent for the parameters uncertainties within a wider range. Numerical simulations testify the validity and the effectiveness.
Security‐aware optimal actuator placement in vehicle platooning
Authors: Basiri Mohammad Hossein , Pirani Mohammad , L. Azad Nasser , Fischmeister Sebastian
Published: May 2021

Vehicle platooning, as a large class of cyber‐physical systems, is prone to be under the risk of cyber attacks. One (or more) external intelligent intruder(s) might attack one (or more) of the vehicles participating in a platoon. This paper proposes a general approach to find an optimal actuator placement strategy according to the Stackelberg game between the attacker and the defender. The game payoff is the energy needed by the attacker to steer the consensus follower–leader dynamics of the system towards his desired direction. The attacker tries to minimize this energy while the defender attempts to maximize it. Thus, based on the defined game and its optimal equilibrium point, the defender(s) selects optimal actuator placement action to face the attacker(s). Both cases of single attacker–single defender and multiple attackers–multiple defenders cases are investigated. Furthermore, we study the effects of different information flow topologies, namely, the unidirectional and bidirectional data transfer structures. Besides, the impacts of increasing the connectivity among the nodes on the security level of the platoon are presented. Simulation results for h–nearest neighbor platoon formations along with experimental results using the scaled cars governed by robotic operating system (ROS) verify the effectiveness of the method.
Biosensor as an alternative diagnostic method for rabies virus detection: A literature review
Authors: Zandi Milad , Zandi Sajad , Mohammadi Ramin , Hosseini Parastoo , Teymouri Samane , Soltani Saber , Rasouli Azadeh
Published: May 2021

Rabies virus as a neurotropic agent causes rabies in humans and animals. Rabies virus transmission usually occurs through direct contact with saliva of rabid animals. However, serological and molecular tests commonly are used in diagnosing rabies but all the detection methods of rabies have some limitations. It is necessary to develop a rapid, effective, and low‐cost biosensor as an alternative tool to detect rabies virus. In this review, we studied related biosensor researches to rabies virus detection for comparing it with other detection test including serological and molecular methods. Given that very limited studies have been conducted in this field, biosensors as quick, effective, and high sensitivity tools can be used in diagnostic of rabies as an alternative tool instead of other detection methods. According to the important role of rapid detection of rabies in the control of infection and public health measures, development of a biosensor as a quick tool can be very significant in the diagnosis of rabies.
Yeast immobilization systems for second‐generation ethanol production: actual trends and future perspectives
Authors: Chacón‐Navarrete Helena , Martín Carlos , Moreno‐García Jaime
Published: May 2021

Yeast immobilization with low‐cost carrier materials is a suitable strategy to optimize the fermentation of lignocellulosic hydrolysates for the production of second‐generation (2G) ethanol. It is defined as the physical confinement of intact cells to a certain region of space (the carrier) with the preservation of their biological activity. This technological approach facilitates promising strategies for second‐generation bioethanol production due to the enhancement of the fermentation performance that is expected to be achieved. Using immobilized cells, the resistance to inhibitors contained in the hydrolysates and the co‐utilization of sugars are improved, along with facilitating separation operations and the reuse of yeast in new production cycles. Until now, the most common immobilization technology used calcium alginate as a yeast carrier but other supports such as biochar or multispecies biofilm membranes have emerged as interesting alternatives. This review compiles updated information about cell carriers and yeast‐cell requirements for immobilization, and the benefits and drawbacks of different immobilization systems for second‐generation bioethanol production are investigated and compared.
The differential diagnostic value of a battery of oculomotor evaluation in Parkinson's Disease and Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Zhou Hong , Wang Xia , Ma Di , Jiang Yanyan , Li Fan , Sun Yunchuang , Chen Jing , Sun Wei , Pinkhardt Elmar H , Landwehrmeyer Bernhard , Ludolph Albert , Zhang Lin , Zhao Guiping , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Clinical diagnosis of Parkinsonism is still challenging, and the diagnostic biomarkers of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) are scarce. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of the combined eye movement tests in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and those with MSA.

Methods

We enrolled 96 PD patients, 33 MSA patients (18 with MSA‐P and 15 with MSA‐C), and 40 healthy controls who had their horizontal ocular movements measured. The multiple‐step pattern of memory‐guided saccade (MGS), the hypometria/hypermetria of the reflexive saccade, the abnormal saccade in smooth pursuit movement (SPM), gaze‐evoked nystagmus, and square‐wave jerks in gaze‐holding test were qualitatively analyzed. The reflexive saccadic parameters and gain of SPM were also quantitatively analyzed.

Results

The MGS test showed that patients with either diagnosis had a significantly higher incidence of multiple‐step pattern compared with controls (68.6%, 65.2%, and versus. 2.5%, p < .05, in PD, MSA, versus. controls, respectively). The reflexive saccade test showed that MSA patients showing a prominent higher incidence of the abnormal saccade (63.6%, both hypometria and hypermetria) than that of PD patients and controls (33.3%, 7.5%, respectively, hypometria) (p < .05). The SPM test showed PD patients had mildly decreased gain among whom 28.1% presenting “saccade intrusions”; and that MSA patients had the significant decreased gain with 51.5% presenting “catch‐up saccades”(p < .05). Only MSA patients showed gaze‐evoked nystagmus (24.2%), square‐wave jerks (6.1%) in gaze‐holding test (p < .05).

Conclusions

A panel of eye movements tests may help to differentiate PD from MSA. The combined presence of hypometria and hypermetria in saccadic eye movement, the impaired gain of smooth pursuit movement with “catch‐up saccades,” gaze‐evoked nystagmus, square‐wave jerks in gaze‐holding test, and multiple‐step pattern in MGS may provide clues to the diagnosis of MSA.
Deep brain stimulation: Challenges at the tissue‐electrode interface and current solutions
Authors: Kolaya Emily , Firestein Bonnie L.
Published: May 2021

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is used to treat the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease patients by stimulating the subthalamic nucleus. However, optimization of DBS is still needed since the performance of the neural electrodes is limited by the body's response to the implant. This review discusses the issues with DBS, such as placement of electrodes, foreign body response, and electrode degradation. The current solutions to these technical issues include modifications to electrode material, coatings, and geometry.
A nomogram to predict the cancer‐specific survival of stage II–IV Epithelial ovarian cancer after bulking surgery and chemotherapy
Authors: Zhao Ling , Yu Ping , Zhang Li
Published: May 2021

Objective

In order to predict the survival rate of ovarian cancer patients, multiple independent risk factors are integrated to establish a prognostic nomogram.

Methods

Cox analysis was used to construct the nomogram. All of the mainly independent factors, which can be used to predict 3‐year and 5‐year survival rates for cancer in the training cohort, were incorporated to establish nomograms. The C‐index, operating characteristic, ROC curves, and calibration plots can show evaluation results of performance.

Results

Model derivation was based on 3277 patients who belong to different races. The best threshold for age was 51, 59, and 67 year old and the older the people, the worse their survival. Meanwhile, many lymph node examinations indicated a favorable survival and the survival of the positive set was worse than of that. In addition, the optional threshold was 64 mm for tumor size and the set larger than 64 mm had a better survival than that less than 64 mm. Univariate Cox proportional hazards regression model showed that the similar worse outcomes were showed in black race, advanced grade, stage T3, stage M1, lymph nodes positive, and CA125 positive compared with the first group. We found that the number of lymph nodes examined and tumor size had an inverse relationship with its corresponding score of CSS in training cases with bulking surgery and chemotherapy.

Conclusions

We developed a model which relatively accurately predicted the prognosis of ovarian cancer by multiple univariate analysis, at the same time, the proposed nomograms exhibit superior prognostic discrimination and survival prediction.
The role of consumer innovativeness and green perceptions on green innovation use: The case of shared e‐bikes and e‐scooters
Authors: Flores Phil Justice , Jansson Johan
Published: May 2021

The growing awareness of environmental issues can be linked to the demand for green transport innovations. Consumer behavior studies have pointed to the importance of consumer innovativeness (CI) and green perceptions in the adoption of green innovations. The purpose of this paper is to identify how users and nonusers of shared micromobility perceive the greenness of shared e‐bikes and e‐scooters and how CI affects shared microvehicle adoption. The paper also analyses the relationships between green perceptions and environmental referent cognitions—biospheric values, environmental knowledge, ascription of responsibility, and environmental attitudes. Shared e‐bike and e‐scooter users and nonusers in Copenhagen and Stockholm were surveyed using an online questionnaire. Results revealed that users consider themselves innovative and perceive the shared microvehicles as relatively green, while nonusers do not. When comparing users, CI and green perceptions relate to shared e‐bike use, but notably, only CI is linked to shared e‐scooter use. The results also show that environmental knowledge and environmental attitudes are related to green perceptions. The practical and theoretical implications of the results are discussed.
Empirical generalisations in customer mindset metrics
Authors: Mecredy Philip J. , Wright Malcolm J. , Feetham Pamela M. , Stern Philip
Published: May 2021

Two very well‐known empirical generalisations in marketing are Double jeopardy (DJ) and the duplication of purchase law (DoP). These generalisations provide important insights into consumer buying behaviour but require ongoing replication and extension to determine the conditions under which they hold. Surprisingly, despite growing recognition of the role of customer mindset metrics in brand choice, DJ, and DoP have not been extensively tested within this context. We therefore analyse survey data (n = 1862) in three repertoire and two subscription markets to determine whether two key mindset metrics, brand awareness and brand consideration, also follow DJ and DoP patterns. Our study successfully demonstrates that brands with low recognition suffer twice with lower unaided brand recall and lower purchase consideration. While brand recall and consideration follow a linear DJ trend, brand recognition and consideration follow an exponential DJ trend. We also confirm the existence of Duplication of Awareness and Duplication of Consideration patterns. Brands share greater awareness or consideration levels with other highly recognised or considered brands than with lowly recognised or considered brands. However, contrary to the DoP law, we find consistent market partitioning, with category buyers who are aware of, or consider smaller brands also being aware of, or considering other smaller brands at a slightly greater rate than expected. We provide possible explanations for differing DJ slopes and duplication partitions, as well as theoretical and managerial implications.
Substrate Protection in Controlled Enzymatic Transformation of Peptides and Proteins
Authors: Zhao Yan
Published: May 2021

Proteins are involved in practically every single biological process. The many enzymes involved in their synthesis, cleavage, and posttranslational modification (PTM) carry out highly specific tasks with no usage of protecting groups. Yet, the chemists’ strategy of protection/deprotection potentially can be highly useful, for example, when a specific biochemical reaction catalyzed by a broad‐specificity enzyme needs to be inhibited, during infection of cells by enveloped viruses, in the invasion and spread of cancer cells, and upon mechanistic investigation of signal‐transduction pathways. Doing so requires highly specific binding of peptide substrates in aqueous solution with biologically competitive affinities. Recent development of peptide‐imprinted cross‐linked micelles allows such protection and affords previously impossible ways of manipulating peptides and proteins in enzymatic transformations.
Reduction of door‐to‐balloon time in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction by single‐catheter primary percutaneous coronary intervention method
Authors: Lee Kyong Hee , Torii Sho , Oguri Mitsutoshi , Miyaji Tsuyosi , Kiyooka Takahiko , Ono Yuujirou , Asada Kouhei , Adachi Taichi , Takahashi Akihiko , Ikari Yuji
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The objectives of this study is to confirm reduction of door‐to‐balloon (D2B) time with single‐catheter percutaneous coronary intervention (SC‐PCI) method.

Background

Reduction of total ischemic time is important in the emergency treatment of ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). There have been no established methods in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to shorten ischemic time via radial access. Ikari left curve was reported as a universal guiding catheter for left and right coronary arteries. Several procedure steps can be skipped by SC‐PCI method as the advantage of a universal catheter.

Methods

This study is a retrospective analysis of a total of 1,275 consecutive STEMI cases treated with primary PCI in 14 hospitals. Patients were divided into two groups, SC‐PCI method (n = 298) and conventional PCI method (n = 977). Primary endpoints were door‐to‐balloon (D2B) time and radiation exposure dose.

Results

The mean age was 68 ± 13 years old. Radial access was used in 85% of participants. PCI success was achieved in 99.5% of participants and the SC‐PCI method was successfully performed in 92.6%. The D2B time was shorter (68 ± 46 vs. 74 ± 50 min, respectively; p = .02), and the radiation exposure dose was lower (1,664 ± 970 vs. 2008 ± 1,605 mGy, respectively; p < .0001) in the SC‐PCI group than in the conventional group.

Conclusion

Primary PCI with SC‐PCI method for patients with STEMI demonstrated shorter D2B time and lower radiation exposure dose.
Iron‐Containing Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanomaterials Prepared via NaCl Template as Efficient Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Juvanen Silver , Sarapuu Ave , Vlassov Sergei , Kook Mati , Kisand Vambola , Käärik Maike , Treshchalov Alexey , Aruväli Jaan , Kozlova Jekaterina , Tamm Aile , Leis Jaan , Tammeveski Kaido
Published: May 2021

Iron‐containing nitrogen‐doped carbon catalysts for the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) were prepared by high‐temperature pyrolysis of glucose, K3[Fe(CN)6], and dicyandiamide or urea as precursors. Sodium chloride was used as a template and a confining agent during the pyrolysis, while graphitic carbon nitride formed from dicyandiamide decomposed at higher temperatures, contributing to the enhancement of the porosity and nitrogen doping. The ratio of the precursors and the template was varied to improve the catalysts′ ORR activity, determined in alkaline solution by the rotating disk electrode method. The ORR inhibition tests by cyanide anions revealed the existence of nitrogen‐coordinated Fe centres as electrocatalytically active sites in the doped catalyst. The high durability and methanol tolerance of the catalyst material prepared with an optimised precursor ratio make it a promising catalyst for applications in alkaline membrane fuel cells.
Taking Advantage of Ortho‐ and Peri‐Substitution to Design Nine‐Membered P,O,Si‐heterocycles**
Authors: Delouche Thomas , Caytan Elsa , Quinton Cassandre , Roisnel Thierry , Cordier Marie , Dorcet Vincent , Hissler Muriel , Bouit Pierre‐Antoine
Published: May 2021

A family of cyclic phosphine‐disiloxane featuring peri‐substituted naphthyl(Nap)/acenaphthyl(Ace) scaffolds has been prepared and fully characterized including X‐ray structure, which enables a detailed structural analysis. This straightforward synthesis takes advantage of both ortho‐ and peri‐substitution of Nap/Ace‐substituted phosphine oxides. The synthetic method allows diversifying the polycyclic aromatic platform (Nap and Ace) as well as the Si substituents (Me and Ph). Despite a strong steric congestion, the P‐atom remains reactive toward oxidation or coordination. In particular, Au(I) complex could be prepared. All the compounds display absorption/luminescence in the UV‐Vis range. Surprisingly, the P‐trivalent derivatives display unexpected luminescence in the green in solid‐state.
A novel retarded HCl acid system for HPHT carbonate acidizing applications: Experimental study
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Farid
Published: May 2021

Retarded acid systems for high‐pressure and high‐temperature (HPHT) carbonate reservoirs are the key to provide a deep acid penetration and higher acid efficiency. The current study experimentally evaluates a new retarded HCl acid for HPHT carbonate acidizing applications. The acid retardation mechanism is attained by using a polymeric resin‐based composition that restricts the proton mobility of the acid species. Ten Indiana limestone cores were used with the dimensions of 6 in (0.15 m) length and 1.5 in (0.038 m) diameter and average permeability of 9 mD (0.009 ). Two sets of experiments were conducted, one at 250°F (394 K) and another at 300°F (422 K), with acid injection rates from 0.5–10 cm3/min (8.3E−9 to 1.67E−7 m3/s). The pore volume of acid required to breakthrough (PVBT) was monitored. Effluent samples were collected to track the pH and the dissolved material. Computed tomography (CT) was used to scan the core before and after the experiment to determine the wormhole propagation along with the core. The optimum injection rate at 250 and 300°F (394 and 422 K) were found to be 2.5 and 6 cm3/min (1.67E−8 and 1.25E−7 m3/s) with PVBT of 0.41 and 0.43 PV, respectively. The 3D CT scan showed an effective wormhole profile featuring a single dominant trajectory with few branches. These results are confirmed by calcium ion concentration profiles through inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis. The use of the new acid system will provide deep penetration with low injected acid volume. As a result, the stimulation job efficiency will improve.
Sensitive DNA Mutation Detection at Physiological Temperature with Endonuclease IV by Inhibiting Its Side Activity
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Li Longjie , Liu Qingxu , Hu Yuqiang , Yuan Wenqian , Xiao Xianjin , Wu Tongbo
Published: May 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Endonuclease IV (Endo IV) has the side activity to cleave the apurinic/apyrimidinic site in the single‐stranded DNA probe (AP‐ssDNA), which adversely affects its performance in single‐nucleotide variation (SNV) detection. In this work, we developed a simple strategy to inhibit Endo IV's side activity by introducing an assistant strand into the detection system. The assistant strand effectively inhibited the side‐activity of Endo IV by confining the freedom of AP‐ssDNA through rigid double‐stranded DNA formation, and the inhibition efficiency could reach 98%. About 20 times enhancement of the discrimination factor (DF) was obtained compared to the detection system without the assistant strand. After optimization, a mean DF value was calculated to be 738 for different mutation types, and the sample with 0.005% allele frequency was discriminated from the wild‐type target. Another advantage of using an assistant strand was that the SNV detection could be executed at physiological temperature without precise temperature optimization as in other Endo IV‐based SNV detection system. Besides, EGFR T790M mutant in the synthesized and clinical samples was detected by our strategy. The results showed satisfactory sensitivity and accuracy by comparison with Sanger sequencing. Thus, this strategy has the potential to be applied in the field of precision medicine.
The role of regional myocardial topography post‐myocardial infarction on infarct extension
Authors: Leong Chen Onn , Leong Chin Neng , Liew Yih Miin , Al Abed Amr , Aziz Yang Faridah Abdul , Chee Kok Han , Sridhar Ganiga Srinivasaiah , Dokos Socrates , Lim Einly
Published: May 2021

Infarct extension involves necrosis of healthy myocardium in the border zone (BZ), progressively enlarging the infarct zone (IZ) and recruiting the remote zone (RZ) into the BZ, eventually leading to heart failure. The mechanisms underlying infarct extension remain unclear, but myocyte stretching has been suggested as the most likely cause. Using human patient‐specific left‐ventricular (LV) numerical simulations established from cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of myocardial infarction (MI) patients, the correlation between infarct extension and regional mechanics abnormality was investigated by analysing the fibre stress–strain loops (FSSLs). FSSL abnormality was characterised using the directional regional external work (DREW) index, which measures FSSL area and loop direction. Sensitivity studies were also performed to investigate the effect of infarct stiffness on regional myocardial mechanics and potential for infarct extension. We found that infarct extension was correlated to severely abnormal FSSL in the form of counter‐clockwise loop at the RZ close to the infarct, as indicated by negative DREW values. In regions demonstrating negative DREW values, we observed substantial fibre stretching in the isovolumic relaxation (IVR) phase accompanied by a reduced rate of systolic shortening. Such stretching in IVR phase in part of the RZ was due to its inability to withstand the high LV pressure that was still present and possibly caused by regional myocardial stiffness inhomogeneity. Further analysis revealed that the occurrence of severely abnormal FSSL due to IVR fibre stretching near the RZ‐BZ boundary was due to a large amount of surrounding infarcted tissue, or an excessively stiff IZ.
Doping Platinum with Germanium: An Effective Way to Mitigate the CO Poisoning
Authors: Ugartemendia Andoni , Peeters Kristien , Ferrari Piero , de Cózar Abel , Mercero Jose M. , Janssens Ewald , Jimenez‐Izal Elisa
Published: May 2021

The vulnerability towards CO poisoning is a major drawback affecting the efficiency and long‐term performance of platinum catalysts in fuel cells. In the present work, by a combination of density functional theory calculations and mass spectrometry experiments, we test and explain the promotional effect of Ge on Pt catalysts with higher resistance to deactivation via CO poisoning. A thorough exploration of the configurational space of gas‐phase Ptn+ and GePtn−1+ (n=5–9) clusters using global minima search techniques and the subsequent electronic structure analysis reveals that germanium doping reduces the binding strength between Pt and CO by hindering the 2π‐back‐donation. Importantly, the clusters remain catalytically active towards H2 dissociation. The ability of Ge to weaken the Pt−CO interaction was confirmed by mass spectrometry experiments. Ge can be a promising alloying agent to tune the selectivity and improve the durability of Pt particles, thus opening the way to novel catalytic alternatives for fuel cells.
Efficient Construction of 5H‐1,4‐Benzodiazepine Derivatives by a Catalyst‐Free Direct Aerobic Oxidative Annulation Strategy
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang Xiaolan , Han Feng , Liu Jianping , Xu Qing
Published: May 2021

A catalyst‐free direct aerobic oxidative annulation reaction of 2‐aminobenzylic amines and α‐hydroxy ketones efficiently afforded versatile 5H‐1,4‐benzodiazepine derivatives by employing air as economic and green oxidant under mild conditions. Interestingly, solvent was found to be crucial to the reaction, so that by using acetic acid as the best solvent an efficient and practical method could be achieved, requiring no catalysts or additives at all. This method tolerates a wide range of 2‐aminobenzylic amines and α‐hydroxy ketones and could be scaled up to multigram synthesis and directly applied in one‐step synthesis of the pharmaceutically active N‐desmethylmedazepam derivatives, revealing the potential of this new method in the synthesis of 5H‐1,4‐benzodiazepine skeleton‐based pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
Component value calculations in a mixed element ladder network containing series capacitors separated by unit elements
Authors: Şengül Metin , Çakmak Gökhan
Published: May 2021

Lossless LC ladder networks have many applications. But at high frequencies, inductor‐free designs are preferred since inductors are heavy and have limited values. An additional reason for not using the inductors (at high frequencies) consists in that the values of very small inductors could be quite imprecise. If LC ladder network is high‐pass type, then parallel inductors must be removed. The resulting network will have only series capacitors, which can be combined as a single series capacitor. But if commensurate transmission lines separate the series capacitors, a high‐pass mixed element network is obtained. In this paper, a procedure is proposed to compute the values of series capacitors and characteristic impedances of the transmission lines in the mixed element ladder network. The usage of the procedure is explained by means of the given example.
Formation of droplets in weightless complex plasmas
Authors: Joshi Eshita , Khrapak Sergey , Knapek Christina , Huber Peter , Mohr Daniel , Schwabe Mierk
Published: May 2021

Microparticles immersed in a low‐temperature plasma acquire strong negative charges and thus repel each other. Nevertheless, effective attraction between the microparticles in such a complex plasma can occur due to the interplay between the fluxes of plasma ions and the microparticles. Here, we report the observation of droplets formed in a complex plasma during a parabolic flight, and explain their formation in terms of the ion drag force that sustains the droplet. We have found a good agreement between the experimentally determined droplet size and its theoretical estimate using the ion drag force mechanism. Lower values of the electron temperature result in better agreement, as is consistent with the pulsed mechanism of discharge used experimentally.
Spatio‐spectral relationships between pathological neural dynamics and cognitive impairment along the Alzheimer's disease spectrum
Authors: Wiesman Alex I. , Murman Daniel L. , May Pamela E. , Schantell Mikki , Losh Rebecca A. , Johnson Hallie J. , Willet Madelyn P. , Eastman Jacob A. , Christopher‐Hayes Nicholas J. , Knott Nichole L. , Houseman Lisa L. , Wolfson Sara L. , Losh Kathryn L. , Johnson Craig M. , Wilson Tony W.
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Numerous studies have described aberrant patterns of rhythmic neural activity in patients along the Alzheimer's disease (AD) spectrum, yet the relationships between these pathological features and cognitive decline are uncertain.

Methods

We acquired magnetoencephalography (MEG) data from 38 amyloid‐PET biomarker‐confirmed patients on the AD spectrum and a comparison group of biomarker‐negative cognitively normal (CN) healthy adults, alongside an extensive neuropsychological battery.

Results

By modeling whole‐brain rhythmic neural activity with an extensive neuropsychological profile in patients on the AD spectrum, we show that the spectral and spatial features of deviations from healthy adults in neural population‐level activity inform their relevance to domain‐specific neurocognitive declines.

Discussion

Regional oscillatory activity represents a sensitive metric of neuronal pathology in patients on the AD spectrum. By considering not only the spatial, but also the spectral, definitions of cortical neuronal activity, we show that domain‐specific cognitive declines can be better modeled in these individuals.
CircMYLK promotes the growth, migration, invasion, and survival of bladder cancer cells by upregulating CCND3 level via competitively binding to miR‐34a
Authors: Ye Wenxin , Chen Li , Feng Chao , Liang Tiejun
Published: May 2021

Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of urothelial carcinoma with a rising incidence rate worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the development of numerous cancers, including bladder cancer. We aimed to uncover the role and associated mechanism of circMYLK in bladder cancer. The expression levels of circMYLK, miRNA‐34a (miR‐34a) and Cyclin D3 (CCND3) mRNA were investigated using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The protein level of CCND3 was investigated using western blot. In functional assays, flow cytometry assays were utilized for cell cycle analysis and cell apoptosis analysis. Transwell assays were used for cell migration and invasion analysis. Caspase‐3 activity was examined to monitor cell apoptosis. The putative relationship between miR‐34a and circMYLK or CCND3 was validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. CircMYLK was highly expressed in bladder cancer tissues and cells. CircMYLK downregulation inhibited bladder cancer cell migration and invasion, and promoted cancer cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. MiR‐34a, a target of circMYLK, was downregulated in bladder cancer tissues and cells. MiR‐34a inhibition reversed the effects of circMYLK downregulation and then recovered bladder cell malignant behaviors. Further analysis showed that CCND3 was a downstream target of miR‐34a, and CCND3 was upregulated in bladder cancer tissues and cells. MiR‐34a overexpression blocked bladder cancer cell migration and invasion, and induced cell apoptosis and cycle arrest, while these effects were abolished by CCND3 overexpression. CircMYLK contributed to the malignant development of bladder cancer cells partly through the miR‐34a/CCND3 regulatory network, showing the significance of circMYLK in bladder cancer pathogenesis.
Copeptin as a predictive marker of incident heart failure
Authors: Schill Fredrika , Timpka Simon , Nilsson Peter M. , Melander Olle , Enhörning Sofia
Published: May 2021

Aims

Heart failure (HF) is a common disease with increasing prevalence and poor prognosis. The vasopressin (VP) marker copeptin predicts development of diabetes mellitus, diabetic heart disease, coronary artery disease, and premature mortality. Copeptin is elevated in HF patients and predicts a worse outcome. This study aims to investigate whether copeptin can predict HF development.

Methods

Copeptin was analysed in 5297 individuals (69.6% men) without prevalent HF from the Malmö Preventive Project, a population‐based prospective cohort. Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyse risk of incident HF by copeptin levels after adjusting for conventional cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

During a median follow‐up time of 11.1 years, 350 subjects (6.6%) were diagnosed with HF. Of these events, 99 were classified as myocardial infarction (MI) related HF and 251 as non‐MI‐related HF. Individuals in the top quartile of copeptin had, after multivariate adjustment for conventional risk factors (age, sex, systolic blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, body mass index, antihypertensive therapy, smoking, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol), a significantly increased risk of developing HF by 1.63 [confidence interval (CI) 1.20–2.21] for HF compared with the reference quartile 1. After adjustment for conventional risk factors, the hazard ratio (HR) per standard deviation increase of log‐transformed copeptin for any HF was 1.30 (95% CI 1.17–1.46), whereas it was 1.39 (CI 1.13–1.71) for MI‐related HF and 1.26 (CI 1.11–1.44) for non‐MI‐related HF. The associations remained after additional adjustment for estimated glomerular filtration rate [HR 1.24 (95% CI: 1.10–1.40)] and for pro atrial natriuretic peptide on top of conventional risk factors [HR 1.14 (95% CI: 1.02–1.28)].

Conclusions

Elevated copeptin predicts development of HF in older adults. Copeptin is a risk marker of VP‐driven HF susceptibility and a candidate to guide prevention efforts of HF targeting the VP system.
Supported Synthesis of Adenosine Nucleotides and Derivatives on a Benzene‐Centered Tripodal Soluble Support
Authors: Appy Lucie , Peyrottes Suzanne , Roy Béatrice
Published: May 2021

The first soluble‐phase synthesis of adenosine nucleotides including α,β and β,γ‐methylene bisphosphonate analogues on a multi‐pod support is reported. Anchoring of a 2’,3’‐protected purine nucleoside to the tripodal support via the nucleobase was successfully achieved using a microwave assisted Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition. Then, phosphorylation was performed, followed by cleavage with aqueous ammonia to provide adenine derivatives, and finally deprotection. When using benzylamine instead of ammonia, a derivative with N6‐benzylamine adenine as nucleobase was obtained. This methodology allows to access adenosine 5’‐mono, di and triphosphates, as well as various analogues of pharmacological interest in modest to good yields.
Pain evaluation and prosocial behaviour are affected by age and sex
Authors: Gingras Chloé , Coll Michel‐Pierre , Tessier Marie‐Hélène , Tremblay Pascale , Jackson Philip L.
Published: May 2021

Background

Pain assessment and pain care are influenced by the characteristics of both the patient and the caregiver. Some studies suggest that the pain of older persons and of females may be underestimated to a greater extent than the pain of younger and male individuals.

Aims

This study investigated the effect of age and sex on prosocial behavior and pain evaluation.

Methods

40 young (18–30 y/o; 20 women) and 40 older adults (55–82 y/o; 20 women) acted as healthcare professionals rating the pain and offering help to patients of both age groups. Trait empathy and social desirability were measured with questionnaires.

Results

Linear mixed models showed that older and male patients were offered more help and were perceived as being in more intense pain than younger and female patients.

Conclusion

The characteristics of the patients seem to have a greater impact on prosocial behavior and pain assessment compared to those of the observers, which bears significant implications for the treatment of pain in clinical contexts.