bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene‐Based Advanced Membrane Applications in Organic Solvent Nanofiltration
Authors: Nie Lina , Chuah Chong Yang , Bae Tae‐Hyun , Lee Jong‐Min
Published: October 2020

Owing to the increasing need to mitigate excessive organic solvent waste, the efficient separation and recovery of organic solvents have received major research attention in recent years. The membrane‐based organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) process has demonstrated its feasibility in addressing this problem with low energy costs, compared to conventional separation techniques, such as adsorption, liquid–liquid extraction, and solvent evaporation. Recently, membranes made of 2D graphene‐based materials have shown great promise because they attain high solvent flux and solute rejection using easy processing methods. Thus, this paper focuses on state‐of‐the‐art studies of graphene‐based membranes used in OSN processes, which include syntheses, characterizations, performance evaluations, membrane fouling, and simulation studies, in combination with the development of the “upper‐bound” line to indicate the performance of graphene‐based membranes. In this paper, critical challenges involved in the development of graphene‐based membranes are also focused on and discussed to map out the future directions of these membranes in industrial OSN processes. In addition to OSN, this paper pertains to a broader audience in other separation processes, particularly in the fields of gas separation and water treatment.
Dealing with the Foreign‐Body Response to Implanted Biomaterials: Strategies and Applications of New Materials
Authors: Zhang Donghui , Chen Qi , Shi Chao , Chen Minzhang , Ma Kaiqian , Wan Jianglin , Liu Runhui
Published: October 2020

Foreign‐body response caused by implanted biomaterials seriously impedes the function of implants and is a major obstacle to the development of implantable biomaterials and medical devices. Recent advances in implantable biomaterials and medical devices have provided strategies to resist the foreign‐body response. In this review, the mechanism of the foreign‐body response and conventional strategies to mitigate foreign‐body response is briefly introduced. Then, three types of promising foreign‐body response resisting materials are focused and the advantages, characteristics, and applications of each material are discussed. Finally, prospects are put forward for future development of foreign‐body response resisting materials and current challenges that require in‐depth study.
Newly Synthesized Nonvacuum Processed High‐k Polymeric Dielectrics with Carboxyl Functionality for Highly Stable Operating Printed Transistor Applications
Authors: Kwon Hyeok‐jin , Ye Heqing , Shim Kyuwon , Girma Henok Getachew , Tang Xiaowu , Lim Bogyu , Kim Yejin , Lee Jihoon , Park Chan Eon , Jung Seo‐Hyun , Park Jong Mok , Jung Yu Jin , Hwang Do‐Hoon , Kong Hoyoul , Kim Se Hyun
Published: October 2020

Solution‐processed polar hydroxyl containing polymers such as poly(4‐vinylphenol) are widely utilized in organic filed‐effect transistors (OFETs) due to their high dielectric constant (k) and excellent insulating properties owing to the crosslinking through their hydroxyl groups. However, hydroxyl functionalities can function as trapsites, and their crosslinking reactions decrease the k value of materials. Hence, in this study, new solution‐processable copolymers containing both carboxyl and hydrophobic functionalities are synthesized. A fluorophenyl azide (FPA) based UV‐assisted crosslinker is also employed to promote the movement of polar carboxyl groups toward the bulk region and the hydrophobic functionalities to the surface region, thereby maintaining the high‐k characteristics and hydrophobic surface in thin film. Thus, the addition of an FPA crosslinker eliminates the trapsites on the surface, allowing a stable operation and efficient charge transport. Additionally, the solution‐processability enables the production of uniform and thin films to yield OFETs with stable and low‐voltage driving characteristics. The printed layers are also applied as gate dielectrics for floating gate memory devices and in integrated one‐transistor‐one‐transistor based memory cells, displaying their excellent memory performance. The synthesis and fabrication strategies employed in this study can become useful guidelines for the production of high‐k dielectrics for stable OFETs and other applications.
Enhancing the Long‐Term Stability of a Polymer Dot Glucose Transducer by Using an Enzymatic Cascade Reaction System
Authors: Sun Kai , Ding Zhaoyang , Zhang Jicheng , Chen Haobin , Qin Yuling , Xu Shihan , Wu Changfeng , Yu Jiangbo , Chiu Daniel T.
Published: October 2020

Impaired glucose metabolism in diabetes causes severe acute and long‐term complications, making real‐time detection of blood glucose indispensable for diabetic patients. Existing continuous glucose monitoring systems are unsuitable for long‐term clinical glycemic management due to poor long‐term stability. Polymer dot (Pdot) glucose transducers are implantable optical nanosensors that exhibit excellent brightness, sensitivity, selectivity, and biocompatibility. Here, it is shown that hydrogen peroxide—a product of glucose oxidation in Pdot glucose sensors—degrades sensor performance via photobleaching, reduces glucose oxidase activity, and generates cytotoxicity. By adding catalase to a glucose oxidase‐based Pdot sensor to create an enzymatic cascade, the hydrogen peroxide product of glucose oxidation is rapidly decomposed by catalase, preventing its accumulation and improving the sensor's photostability, enzymatic activity, and biocompatibility. Thus, a next‐generation Pdot glucose transducer with a multienzyme reaction system (Pdot–GOx/CAT) that provides excellent sensing characteristics as well as greater detection system stability is presented. Pdot glucose transducers that incorporate this enzymatic cascade to eliminate hydrogen peroxide will possess greater long‐term stability for improved continuous glucose monitoring in diabetic patients.
Efficient Violet Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with CIEy of 0.02 Based on Spiro Skeleton
Authors: Zou Sheng‐Nan , Chen Xing , Yang Sheng‐Yi , Kumar Sarvendra , Qu Yang‐Kun , Yu You‐Jun , Fung Man‐Keung , Jiang Zuo‐Quan , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: October 2020

Organic materials with violet electroluminescence are highly interesting for organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) application. However, the design and synthesis of new molecules combining with desirable violet emission and high luminous efficiency are a challenging task. Here, three novel organic molecules consisting of a pyrene unit and a highly rigid skeleton, namely TFPy2, TFPy3, and TFPy4, are developed for violet‐emitting OLEDs (VOLEDs). These emitters exhibit excellent thermal stability and violet emission with a narrow full width at half‐maximum (FWHM) and high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs). Photophysical results show that the emission peaks can be tuned by the introduction of pyrene units at different positions, and the emission will have a blue shift with increasing steric hindrance. Moreover, OLEDs fabricated with TFPy2, TFPy3, and TFPy4 as the emitters exhibit maximum external quantum efficiencies (EQEs), emission peaks, and CIEs (x,y) of 3.8%, 414 nm, and (0.15, 0.03); 4.8%, 406 nm, and (0.16, 0.02); and 5.1%, 404 nm, and (0.16, 0.02), respectively. The two molecules TFPy3 and TFPy4 exhibit violet emissions with EL peaks at ≈405 nm with a record low CIEy of 0.02. Therefore, these materials and their construction strategy are promising for future VOLEDs with wide‐color‐gamut display and potential biological applications.
Dopamine D1 receptor in the NAc shell is involved in delayed emergence from isoflurane anesthesia in aged mice
Authors: Zhang Yi , Gui Huan , Hu Lang , Li Chengxi , Zhang Jie , Liang Xiaoli
Published: October 2020

Background

Delayed emergence after general anesthesia tends to occur in the elderly population, but the mechanism remains unclear. Apart from age‐related pharmacokinetic changes, the aging‐induced structural and functional alterations in the arousal‐promoting neural substrates should be considered. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a crucial arousal‐related nucleus, in which activating medium spiny neurons (MSNs) expressing dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) could facilitate the arousal from natural sleep. Meanwhile, the dopaminergic systems decline with aging in multiple brain regions. However, whether the age‐related decline in D1R in the NAc shell attenuates its arousal‐promoting capacity from general anesthesia remains to be elucidated.

Methods

We first verified the delayed emergence from isoflurane anesthesia and examined the corresponding changes of electroencephalogram (EEG) power in aged mice. In turn, the arousal‐modulating capacity of D1R was characterized in the young and aged cohorts by microinjection of D1R agonist/antagonist into the NAc shell. Furthermore, to address the possible mechanism responsible for the attenuated arousal‐modulating capacity of the aged NAc, the expression of D1R in the NAc shell was measured and compared between young and aged mice.

Results

Our data indicated that compared with young mice, the emergence time in aged mice was notably longer, while EEG power in δ band (1‐4Hz) was significantly higher and power in β band (12‐25Hz) was lower. Activating or inhibiting D1R in the NAc shell by microinjection D1R agonist/antagonist promoted or delayed the emergence process in young mice. Nevertheless, this modulation capacity of D1R in the NAc shell declined in aged mice, respectively. Meanwhile, downregulation of D1R expression in the NAc shell was detected in the aged brain.

Conclusion

Together, these results suggest that aging attenuates the arousal‐modulating capacity of D1R in the NAc shell probably through downregulation of D1R expression therein, which may provide a potential explanation and a therapeutic target for increased sensitivity to anesthetics in the elderly patients.
Geographic and intra‐racial disparities in early‐onset colorectal cancer in the SEER 18 registries of the United States
Authors: Abualkhair Wesal H. , Zhou Meijiao , Ochoa Carolina O. , Lacayo Leonel , Murphy Caitlin , Wu Xiao‐Cheng , Karlitz Jordan J.
Published: October 2020

Background

Although early‐onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) incidence rates (IRs) are increasing, geographic and intra‐racial IR disparities are not well defined.

Methods

2000‐2015 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program CRC IR Analysis (170,434 cases) was performed from ages 30 to 60 in four US regions, 18 individual registries, metropolitan and nonmetropolitan locations and stratified by race. Analyses were conducted in 1‐year and 5‐year age increments.

Results

Wide US regional EOCRC IR variations exist: For example, age 45 IRs in the south are 26.8/100,000, 36.0% higher than the West, 19.7/100,000 (p < 0.0001). Disparities magnify between individual registries: EOCRC IRs in highest risk registries were 177‐348% (Alaska Natives), 75‐200% (Hawaii), 76‐128% (Louisiana), and 61‐125% (Kentucky) higher than lowest risk registries depending on age. EOCRC IRs are 18.2%‐25.6% higher in nonmetropolitan versus metropolitan settings. Wide geographic intra‐racial disparities exist. Within the White population, the greatest IR difference (78.8%) was between Kentucky (5.9/100,000) and Los Angeles (3.3/100,000) in 30‐ to 34‐year‐olds (p < .0001). Within the Black population, the greatest difference (136.2%) was between rural Georgia (30.7/100,000) and California excluding San Francisco‐Oakland/San Jose‐Monterey/Los Angeles (13/100,000) in 40‐ to 44‐year‐olds (p = 0003).

Conclusion

Marked geographic EOCRC disparities exist with disproportionately high IRs in Alaska Natives, Hawaii, and southern registries. Geographic intra‐racial disparities are present within White and Black populations. In Blacks, there are disproportionately high EOCRC IRs in rural Georgia. Although vigilance is required in all populations, attention must be paid to these higher risk populations. Potential interventions include assuring early investigation of symptoms, targeting modifiable risk factors and utilizing earlier age 45 screening options supported by some guidelines.
Overnight fasting before lapatinib administration to breast cancer patients leads to reduced toxicity compared with nighttime dosing: a retrospective cohort study from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Tsuda Moe , Ishiguro Hiroshi , Toriguchi Naoko , Masuda Norikazu , Bando Hiroko , Ohgami Masahiro , Homma Masato , Morita Satoshi , Yamamoto Naohito , Kuroi Katsumasa , Yanagita Yasuhiro , Takano Toshimi , Shimizu Satoru , Toi Masakazu
Published: October 2020

Background

The bioavailability of lapatinib is affected by food, even following the 1 hour fast recommended by the package insert. We hypothesized that overnight fasting would minimize food‐drug interactions. Here, we investigated if lapatinib administration timing is associated with its tolerability, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study utilizing the medical records of patients enrolled in the JBCRG‐16/Neo‐LaTH randomized phase 2 trial for breast cancer patients treated with lapatinib. Lapatinib administration timing was divided into three groups: before breakfast (BB), between meals (BM), and at bedtime (AB). Side effects (SE), treatment discontinuation rate (TDR), relative dose intensity (RDI), pathological complete response (pCR) rate, and lapatinib serum trough concentration were compared between groups.

Results

About 140 patients were included in this study: BB 15, BM 51, and AB 74. A reduced risk of diarrhea {adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 0.51, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.27‐0.89, p = 0.018}, and rash {adjusted HR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.17‐0.70, p = 0.002} was seen in BB versus AB. Fewer patients with low RDI (< 0.85/<0.6) were in the BB group (BB 13% / 0%, BM 22% / 3.9%, AB 24% / 14%, p = 0.70 / 0.11). pCR was not diminished (p = 0.75). BB group had the lowest serum lapatinib concentration and variability (mean ±SD were 0.35 ± 0.15, 0.65 ± 0.32, 0.96 ± 0.43 µg/ml).

Conclusions

Compared to bedtime administration, lapatinib administration after overnight fasting reduces its toxicity without diminishing its therapeutic efficacy.
An unusual reversible color change in a gastric lesion during real‐time endoscopy
Authors: Osera Shozo , Tomori Akihisa , Arakawa Aiko , Shiozawa Satoshi , Hisa Takeshi
Published: October 2020

During endoscopy, a light purple flat lesion suddenly appeared at the antrum and the lesion disappeared subsequently. This is an unusual reversible color change that is associated with blood flow, and that must be differentiated from neoplasia.
Computer Modeling System of the Industrial Diesel Fuel Catalytic Dewaxing Process
Authors: Belinskaya Nataliya S. , Ivanchina Emiliya D. , Dolganov Igor M. , Belozertseva Natalia E. , Afanaseva Daria A.
Published: October 2020

An unsteady mathematical model and a computer modeling system of the diesel fuel catalytic dewaxing process (mild hydrocracking) were developed. The modeling system allows for calculating the optimal technological mode to produce low‐freezing diesel fuel with the required cold filter plugging point taking into account the feedstock composition and catalyst activity. The modeling system consists of the main blocks: database, knowledge base, unsteady mathematical model of the diesel fuel catalytic dewaxing process, and application program package. Using the developed computer modeling system, the influence of the feedstock composition and flow rate as well as of the catalyst activity on the cold filter plugging point and the yield of diesel fuel is demonstrated.
Vision adaptation in the laughing dove (Streptopelia senegalensis, Linnaeus, 1766) inferred from structural, ultrastructural, and genetic characterization
Authors: Sultan Aya E. , Ghoneim Ahmed M. , El‐Gammal Hekmat L. , El‐Bakary Neveen E. R.
Published: October 2020

Neuroanatomy of the retina reflects adaptation and acclimation for dark and light conditions. Retinal cells and genes must be functionally adjusted to various environmental luminosities. Opsins are brilliant molecules to assess the adaptations at the genetic and phenotypic levels. Photic adaptations may reveal new mechanisms that enhance vision abilities. Through the investigation of histological, ultrastructural constituents of the whole retinal layers, and the sequencing of shortwave length sensitive opsin 1 (SWS1) of the laughing dove (Streptopelia senegalensis), the current study confirms the plasticity of the retina in response to the natural photic conditions. Retinal pigmented epithelium has plentiful melanosomes, signifying a highly adapted eye for maximum light perception and protection. Variously colored oil droplets signify high color vision ability. Stratified outer nuclear layer with many Müller cells suggests high sensitivity to dim conditions and high retinal regeneration. The penetration of outer limiting membrane by photoreceptor nuclei and Müller cell microvilli could minimize the light reflection. Oligodendrocytes establish thick myelination demanded for a keen visual acuity. A functional violet sensitive SWS1 with crucial Ser90 is presumed. Molecular phylogeny showed a secondary loss as color vision was shifted back from ultraviolet (UV) sensitivity to the ancestral avian violet sensitivity, thus improving visual resolution. However, SWS1 has some UV sensitive residues. These findings implicate not only spectral adaptations with high color vision ability and acuity but also photoinduced structural reorganizations. Further studies are needed to assess the secrets between photons and the structural genes.
Early‐photon reflectance fluorescence molecular tomography for small animal imaging: Mathematical model and numerical experiment
Authors: Konovalov Alexander B. , Vlasov Vitaly V. , Uglov Alexander S.
Published: October 2020

The paper presents an original approach to time‐domain reflectance fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) of small animals. It is based on the use of early arriving photons and state‐of‐the‐art compressed‐sensing‐like reconstruction algorithms and aims to improve the spatial resolution of fluorescent images. We deduce the fundamental equation that models the imaging operator and derive analytical representations for the sensitivity functions which are responsible for the reconstruction of the fluorophore absorption coefficient. The idea of fluorescence lifetime tomography with our approach is also discussed. We conduct a numerical experiment on 3D reconstruction of box phantoms with spherical fluorescent inclusions of small diameters. For modeling measurement data and constructing the sensitivity matrix we assume a virtual fluorescence tomograph with a scanning fiber probe that illuminates and collects light in reflectance geometry. It provides for large source‐receiver separations which correspond to the macroscopic regime. Two compressed‐sensing‐like reconstruction algorithms are used to solve the inverse problem. These are the algebraic reconstruction technique with total variation regularization and our modification of the fast iterative shrinkage‐thresholding algorithm. Results of our numerical experiment show that our approach is capable of achieving as good spatial resolution as 0.2 mm and even better at depths to 9 mm inclusive.
Integrated Z‐Scheme Nanosystem Based on Metal Sulfide Nanorods for Efficient Photocatalytic Pure Water Splitting
Authors: Qin Zhixiao , Guan Xiangjiu , Guo Xu , Guo Penghui , Wang Menglong , Huang Zhenxiong , Chen Yubin
Published: October 2020

Developing efficient metal sulfides for pure water splitting is a challenging topic in the field of photocatalysis. Herein, inspired by natural photosynthesis, an all‐solid‐state Z‐scheme photocatalyst was constructed with Cd0.9Zn0.1S (CZS) for water reduction, red phosphorus (RP) for water oxidation, and metallic CoP as the electron mediator. RP@CoP core‐shell nanostructures were uniformly attached on the CZS nanorods, which gave rise to multiple monodispersed nanojunctions. The integrated Z‐scheme nanosystem exhibited an apparent quantum efficiency of 6.4 % at 420 nm for pure water splitting. Theoretical analysis and femtosecond transient absorption results revealed that the impressive performance was mainly due to efficient hole transfer of CZS, resulting from the intimate atomic contacts between CoP mediator and photocatalysts, together with favorable band alignment. Meanwhile, the multiple monodispersed Z‐scheme nanojunctions could provide abundant reaction sites, which was also important for the boosted activity.
Human hair tests to document drug environmental contamination: Application in a family law case involving N,N‐dimethyltryptamine
Authors: Kintz Pascal , Ameline Alice , Raul Jean‐Sébastien
Published: October 2020

For 40 years, hair tests have been presented as the best approach to document long‐term consumption of a drug. This unique property has found numerous applications in clinical, forensic, and occupational toxicology. However, since the beginning of its implementation in biology, external contamination, with an associated risk of false positive result, has been presented as the key in the final interpretation. Evidence of environmental contamination and subsequent health issues can be the task of any toxicologist. Because of recent progress of analytical equipment, it is now possible to quantify drugs in hair with high level of accuracy and specificity at the pg/mg range. Therefore, segmental hair tests can be used to document environmental contamination and are the objective of this publication. In a family law case, N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a powerful hallucinogen, has been found in the hair of the partner of a repetitive DMT smoker at 4 to 13 pg/mg in 6 × 1 cm segments, with a regular increase of concentrations from the proximal to the distal hair end. The low measured concentrations and the particular pattern of DMT distribution along the hair shaft seem to be typical of environmental contamination, the older hair (those of the distal part) being for a longer time in contact with the drug. Despite strong decontamination, drugs from the environment can remain bound to the hair matrix and therefore be able to be used to document environmental contamination.
Lineage tracing of cells expressing the ciliary gene IFT140 during bone development
Authors: Chen Yubei , Fan Qiqi , Zhang Han , Tao Dike , Wang Yibin , Yue Rui , Sun Yao
Published: October 2020

Background

Primary cilia influence cell function and tissue development. Ciliary signaling is mediated by two intraflagellar transport (IFT) protein complexes, IFT‐A and IFT‐B. The IFT‐A complex is responsible for retrograde transport, and IFT140 is a core protein in the A complex. Mutations in IFT140 cause a variety of skeletal disorders. However, the expression and role of IFT140 during bone development remain unclear. In this study, to further explore the potential role of IFT140 in osteogenesis, we used cell lineage tracing and conditional knockout to analyze the distribution and function of IFT140‐positive cells during bone formation.

Results

In newborn Ift140‐creER; R26RtdTomato mice, IFT140‐positive cells were mainly located in the medullary cavity and then migrated to and differentiated on the surface of trabecular and cortical bone. In contrast, the number of IFT140‐positive cells significantly decreased in the adult stage, and these cells were only located in the bone marrow cavity for a short time. In Osx‐cre; Ift140flox/flox mice, the loss of IFT140 in preosteoblasts caused bone loss in the trabecular bone area at 10 weeks.

Conclusion

The results revealed that IFT140‐positive cells mainly contribute to the early stage of bone formation.
Lining the nest with more feathers increases offspring recruitment probability: Selection on an extended phenotype in the blue tit
Authors: Järvinen Pauliina , Brommer Jon E.
Published: October 2020

Birds, among various other taxa, construct nests. Nests form an extended phenotype of the individual building it. Nests are used to extend control over the conditions in which offspring develop, and are therefore commonly considered to be shaped by selection. Nevertheless, scarcely any scientific evidence exist that nest composition is under selection. Here, we demonstrate with data from over 400 blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) nests collected over 8 years that a higher proportion of feathers in the nest lining is positively associated with the probability of offspring to recruit as a breeding adult later in life. Strikingly, the extended phenotype (nest) was associated stronger with recruitment probability than phenotypic traits that have typically been considered important in selection (laying date, and female size and condition). Our findings suggest that the choice of nest material could be a maternal behavior with potential lifelong effects on her offspring.
Myocarditis and intramural coronary vasculitis in polyarteritis nodosa: an unusual treatable form of heart failure
Authors: Chimenti Cristina , Alfarano Maria , Toto Federica , Fanisio Francesca , Verardo Romina , Galea Nicola , Agati Luciano , Frustaci Andrea
Published: October 2020

We describe an uncommon cardiac presentation of polyarteritis nodosa. A 68‐year‐old woman, with a history of fatigue, weight loss, and myalgia of the lower extremities, was admitted for congestive heart failure. Coronary arteries were normal. Endomyocardial biopsy showed active lymphocytic myocarditis with associated intramural small vessels necrotizing vasculitis. The overexpression of TLR‐4 and the negativity for myocardial viruses suggested an immune mediated mechanism of cardiac damage. These histologic findings associated to weight loss >4 kg not due to dieting or other factors, myalgias, and polyneuropathy, were consistent with the diagnosis of polyarteritis nodosa. Immunosuppressive treatment, consisting of cyclophosphamide and prednisolone, led to a significant improvement of cardiac function. Polyarteritis nodosa can be the cause of unexplained heart failure due to myocarditis and intramural vessels vasculitis. Its recognition is crucial to obtain a cardiac recovery with a tailored immunosuppressive treatment.
Common mechanistic pathways in cancer and heart failure. A scientific roadmap on behalf of the Translational Research Committee of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)
Authors: de Boer Rudolf A. , Hulot Jean‐Sébastien , Tocchetti Carlo Gabriele , Aboumsallem Joseph Pierre , Ameri Pietro , Anker Stefan D. , Bauersachs Johann , Bertero Edoardo , Coats Andrew J.S. , Čelutkienė Jelena , Chioncel Ovidiu , Dodion Pierre , Eschenhagen Thomas , Farmakis Dimitrios , Bayes‐Genis Antoni , Jäger Dirk , Jankowska Ewa A. , Kitsis Richard N. , Konety Suma H. , Larkin James , Lehmann Lorenz , Lenihan Daniel J. , Maack Christoph , Moslehi Javid J. , Müller Oliver J. , Nowak‐Sliwinska Patrycja , Piepoli Massimo Francesco , Ponikowski Piotr , Pudil Radek , Rainer Peter P. , Ruschitzka Frank , Sawyer Douglas , Seferovic Petar M. , Suter Thomas , Thum Thomas , van der Meer Peter , Van Laake Linda W. , von Haehling Stephan , Heymans Stephane , Lyon Alexander R. , Backs Johannes
Published: October 2020

The co‐occurrence of cancer and heart failure (HF) represents a significant clinical drawback as each disease interferes with the treatment of the other. In addition to shared risk factors, a growing body of experimental and clinical evidence reveals numerous commonalities in the biology underlying both pathologies. Inflammation emerges as a common hallmark for both diseases as it contributes to the initiation and progression of both HF and cancer. Under stress, malignant and cardiac cells change their metabolic preferences to survive, which makes these metabolic derangements a great basis to develop intersection strategies and therapies to combat both diseases. Furthermore, genetic predisposition and clonal haematopoiesis are common drivers for both conditions and they hold great clinical relevance in the context of personalized medicine. Additionally, altered angiogenesis is a common hallmark for failing hearts and tumours and represents a promising substrate to target in both diseases. Cardiac cells and malignant cells interact with their surrounding environment called stroma. This interaction mediates the progression of the two pathologies and understanding the structure and function of each stromal component may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies and improved outcomes in patients. The interdisciplinary collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists is essential to establish unified guidelines. To this aim, pre‐clinical models that mimic the human situation, where both pathologies coexist, are needed to understand all the aspects of the bidirectional relationship between cancer and HF. Finally, adequately powered clinical studies, including patients from all ages, and men and women, with proper adjudication of both cancer and cardiovascular endpoints, are essential to accurately study these two pathologies at the same time.
Frequency, trends and institutional variation in 30‐day all‐cause mortality and unplanned readmissions following hospitalisation for heart failure in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Labrosciano Clementine , Horton Dennis , Air Tracy , Tavella Rosanna , Beltrame John F. , Zeitz Christopher J. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Adams Robert J.T. , Scott Ian A. , Gallagher Martin , Hossain Sadia , Hariharaputhiran Saranya , Ranasinghe Isuru
Published: October 2020

Aims

National 30‐day mortality and readmission rates after heart failure (HF) hospitalisations are a focus of US policy intervention and yet have rarely been assessed in other comparable countries. We examined the frequency, trends and institutional variation in 30‐day mortality and unplanned readmission rates after HF hospitalisations in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods and results

We included patients >18 years hospitalised with HF at all public and most private hospitals from 2010–15. The primary outcomes were the frequencies of 30‐day mortality and unplanned readmissions, and the institutional risk‐standardised mortality rate (RSMR) and readmission rate (RSRR) evaluated using separate cohorts. The mortality cohort included 153 592 patients (mean age 78.9 ± 11.8 years, 51.5% male) with 16 442 (10.7%) deaths within 30 days. The readmission cohort included 148 704 patients (mean age 78.6 ± 11.9 years, 51.7% male) with 33 158 (22.3%) unplanned readmission within 30 days. In 392 hospitals with at least 25 HF hospitalisations, the median RSMR was 10.7% (range 6.1–17.3%) with 59 hospitals significantly different from the national average. Similarly, in 391 hospitals with at least 25 HF hospitalisations, the median RSRR was 22.3% (range 17.7–27.1%) with 24 hospitals significantly different from the average. From 2010–15, the adjusted 30‐day mortality [odds ratio (OR) 0.991/month, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.990–0.992, P < 0.01] and unplanned readmission (OR 0.998/month, 95% CI 0.998–0.999, P < 0.01) rates declined.

Conclusion

Within 30 days of a HF hospitalisation, one in 10 patients died and almost a quarter of those surviving experienced an unplanned readmission. The risk of these outcomes varied widely among hospitals suggesting disparities in HF care quality. Nevertheless, a substantial decline in 30‐day mortality and a modest decline in readmissions occurred over the study period.
Identifying Applications of Machine Learning and Data Analytics Based Approaches for Optimization of Upstream Petroleum Operations
Authors: Pandey Rakesh Kumar , Dahiya Anil Kumar , Mandal Ajay
Published: October 2020

Over the past few years, machine learning and data analytics have gained tremendous attention as emerging trends in the oil and gas industry. The usage of modern tools and high‐end technologies produces a large amount of heterogeneous data. The processing and managing of this data at higher speed for performance analysis and prediction for field development and planning has become a significant area of research. Several challenges that are encountered in forecasting the operational characteristics using the traditional approaches have led to research based on implementation of machine learning and data analytics techniques in exploration and production activities to attain higher accuracy, which allows making informed choices. Herein, a review is presented to evaluate the applications and scope of machine learning and data analytics in the oil and gas industry to optimize the upstream operations, including exploration, drilling, reservoir, and production. The challenges associated with traditional methods for forecasting the operational parameters are identified and case studies associated with performance optimization using predictive models that have aided in improving the decision‐making process are discussed.
Management of Pregnancy during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Wu Di , Fang Dong , Wang Renjie , Deng Dongrui , Liao Shujie
Published: October 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is spreading worldwide. All aspects of pregnancy management from conception to delivery to puerperium as risks facing newborns are herein, reviewed. Maternal home management and prenatal care management protection, delivery timing or mode selection, delivery process management, and subsequent puerperal protection are crucial. In this Review, the features and treatment strategies, especially emphasizing the safety of antiviral drugs for pregnant women, the wearing of face masks, and practicing of personal hygiene (e.g., handwashing, disinfection, home cleaning, and ventilation) are reviewed as essential protective measures. It is recommended to provide online consultation, telemedicine, and remote fetal heart rate monitoring and set the flow point for prenatal examination to encourage prenatal examination at home or postponing examinations (except nuchal translucency at 11‐13+6 weeks, Oscar Test at 16 weeks, and fetal ultrasound at 20–24 weeks). It is shown that the precise formulation of follow‐up strategies for pregnant women with COVID‐19 is necessary.
Molecular changes associated with the anticancer effect of sulforaphane against Ehrlich solid tumour in mice
Authors: Abouzed Tarek K. , Beltagy Esraa‐Elden R. , Kahilo Khaled A. , Ibrahim Wafaa M.
Published: October 2020

The anticancer effect of sulforaphane (SFN) is mediated by several signalling pathways. However, little is known regarding the underlying mechanism in Ehrlich solid tumours (ESTs) in mice. This study was conducted to determine molecular changes associated with the anticancer effect of SFN and to compare its preventive (cotreatment) and therapeutic (posttreatment) effects. Ehrlich (murine mammary adenocarcinoma) solid tumour was selected and changes in the gene expression were determined in tumour tissues by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that SFN increased the expression of the oxidative stress geneNrF2and its downstream targets (HO1andCAT). Conversely, SFN administration decreased the expression of the epigenesis‐related genes (HDAC1andDNMT1) and inflammation‐related genes (TNFa,NFkBandCox2). Overall, SFN cotreatment presented notable molecular changes than the posttreatment strategy. These data suggest that molecular changes associated with the anticancer effects of SFN against EST involved induction of oxidative stress, inhibition of inflammation and epigenetic modifications.
Psychometric evaluation of the perceived context of reception scale among Hispanic and Somali adolescents
Authors: Forster Myriam , Grigsby Timothy J. , Areba Eunice , Unger Jennifer B. , Rogers Chris J. , Schwartz Seth J.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

This study validates the psychometric properties and correlates of the perceived context of reception (PCOR) scale, a measure of immigrant youth's perceptions of the openness or hostility of their receiving communities, among Hispanic and Somali adolescents.

Methods

Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) was conducted to assess the properties of PCOR among a sample of first‐ and second‐generation Hispanic and Somali youth (N = 311) recruited in the Twin Cities metro area of Minnesota.

Results

CFA results provided evidence that the negative dimension of PCOR was structurally equivalent across ethnicity and generation and has acceptable internal consistency reliability. Negative perception of the receiving community's attitude toward newcomers was positively correlated with perceived discrimination, depressive symptoms, and anxiety.

Conclusion

Results suggest that negative PCOR is cross‐ethnically valid and that perceptions of the receiving community should be considered an important component of immigrant adaptation.
Utilization of montmorillonite in biostoning process as a strategy for effluent reuse
Authors: Costa Flávia N , de Souza Lima Janaína , Valério Alexsandra , de Souza Antônio AU , de Oliveira Débora
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Biostoning using cellulase is a process used in place of the traditional stone‐washing of denim. This process guarantees a more controlled removal of the Indigo blue dye from the cotton fibers, giving an aged‐look and softness to denim. However, it also causes backstaining and generates a high volume of colored effluent. In this context, this work evaluated the possibility to reuse the effluent from the biostoning process combined with montmorillonite addition. It is an attractive and sustainable alternative to the conventional process.

RESULTS

In this study, four biostoning processes were conducted and the results showed that the moment of the montmorillonite addition affected the washing effects. Clay addition after 40 min of beginning of the process provided washing effects on denim similar to those obtained by traditional biostoning and the highest effluent discoloration percentage (above 96%). Moreover, due to Indigo dye adsorption, the clay addition reduced the backstaining. The results also showed the that washing effects obtained after two consecutive reuses were not significantly different from those obtained with fresh water.

CONCLUSION

Adding montmorillonite to biostoning led to a discolor effluent that can be used in repeated processing. Overall, the utilization of clay in the process can be considered a promising alternative to reduce water consumption and environmental impacts without compromising the washing effects. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Citations of Murray Sidman's work in JEAB: Evidence of a long and large contribution
Authors: Li Anita , Curiel Hugo , Poling Alan
Published: October 2020

We examined citations of Murray Sidman's publications in the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior from the journal's inception in 1958 through May 2020. On average, he was cited 35.6 times per year. The rate of citation did not change substantially across time and the cumulative citation count was 2,212. His 10 publications cited most often deal with behavior‐analytic research methods, stimulus equivalence, and unsignaled free‐operant (or Sidman) avoidance. Our data provide clear evidence of the breadth and depth of Sidman's influence on the experimental analysis of behavior across 7 decades. His contributions were both exceptional and praiseworthy and his legacy will long endure.
T‐cell infiltration profile in musculoskeletal tumors
Authors: Nakajima Kosei , Raz Abraham
Published: October 2020

Immunotherapy of musculoskeletal tumors remains clinically challenging and requires the development of gene‐engineered/adoptive exogenous immune cells or the identification of new molecular target(s) that can be therapeutically exploited to improve patient outcome. Recently, endogenous B‐cell infiltration into tumor microenvironments appears to be an essential promising prognostic factor controlling tumor progression in musculoskeletal malignancy. Here, we explored the level of T‐cell infiltration by analyzing expression profiles of CD3E, CD4, and CD8A in 1366 patients and 23 histological types. The data revealed that CD3E and CD8A expressions were predominantly inhibited in bone tumors when compared with normal bone. CD4 expression was upregulated in limited types of tumors, including chondrosarcoma and giant cell tumor of bone, whereas other tumors demonstrated relatively lower expressions. Similarly, regarding soft tissue sarcoma, the expression of T‐cell‐related molecules was largely inhibited. Only in patients with rhabdomyosarcoma, CD3E and CD8A expressions were significantly upregulated, showing the nature of immune‐active tumor. To visualize the immunological microenvironment of rhabdomyosarcoma, we have developed a novel software aimed at analyzing numerous cell‐to‐cell and ligand‐to‐receptor interactions, that is, Environmentome. It has led to the identification of molecular interactions between CD8+ T cell and rhabdomyosarcoma via Galectin3‐LAG3 binding, which is a novel immune checkpoint recently identified. In conclusion, musculoskeletal tumors may be defined as immune‐quiescent tumors, whereby targeting Galectin‐3 and/or immune‐infiltrative agents could be crucial in these immunologically noninflamed musculoskeletal tumors, accelerating immunotherapeutic response.
Continuous Assessment of Gastric Motility and Its Relation to Gastric Emptying in Adult Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Goelen Nick , Janssen Pieter , Tack Jan , Morales John , Honinx Tine , Van den Berghe Greet , Casaer Michael P. , Gunst Jan
Published: October 2020

Background

Critically ill patients frequently develop feeding intolerance, which is difficult to predict. In healthy subjects, gastric motility, assessed by nasogastric balloon tube, correlated with gastric emptying. We now investigated this correlation in critically ill patients, as well as the feasibility and safety of such application in a pilot study.

Methods

Endotracheally intubated adults scheduled to receive enteral nutrition (EN) were included. After insertion of a double‐lumen nasogastric balloon tube and radiographic confirmation of position, balloon pressure was recorded for 10 hours after inflation (4 hours fasted, 2 hours during administration of 13C‐labeled EN, and 4 hours postprandially). Gastric motility was expressed as Gastric Balloon Motility Index (GBMI), reflecting the fraction of time in which phasic gastric contractions occurred. Gastric emptying was assessed by 13C‐octanoate breath test and expressed as gastric half‐emptying time (GET½). Correlation between GBMI (assessed in different time intervals) and GET½ was investigated by Pearson/Spearman correlation. Feasibility was defined as the success of tube placement and pressure recording. Safety was assessed based on adverse device effects.

Results

Thirty patients were enrolled, of whom 19 had paired GBMI and GET½ data. There was no correlation between GBMI and GET½. The tube was successfully placed in 28/30 (93.3%) patients. In 3/28 (10.7%) patients, balloon leakage precluded analysis. Two safety events were directly linked to the device.

Conclusion

This pilot study showed no significant correlation between balloon‐assessed gastric motility and emptying in critically ill patients. The feasibility/safety profile of the balloon tube appears similar to that of standard nasogastric tubes.
Inhibition of yes‐associated protein dephosphorylation prevents aggravated periodontitis with occlusal trauma
Authors: Wei Wei , Xue Lili , Tan Liangyu , Liu Jie , Yang Qin , Wang Jiajia , Yan Bing , Cai Qiaoling , Yang Li , Yue Yuan , Hao Liang , Wang Min , Li Jinle
Published: October 2020

Background

Occlusal trauma can aggravate periodontitis, but the mechanism remains unclear. Yes‐associated protein (YAP), a mechanical stressor protein, may play an important role in this process.

Methods

Western blot and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) were applied to detect the expression of YAP and inflammatory factors in patients with periodontitis accompanied with or without occlusal trauma. Through local administration of Porphyromonas gingivalis and composite resin bonding on maxillary molars in mice, we established periodontitis and occlusal trauma models. Treatment with or without XAV939, to inhibit YAP activation, was performed in these models. Micro‐computed tomography, immunofluorescence (IF), and qRT‐PCR were used to explore the YAP pathway in periodontitis with occlusal trauma. Cyclic stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimuli were applied to the L929 mouse fibroblast cell line with or without XAV939. Western blot, IF, and qRT‐PCR were used to verify the in vivo results.

Results

Activated dephosphorylated YAP and increased expression of inflammatory factors were observed in patients with periodontitis accompanied with occlusal trauma. In the mouse model of periodontitis with occlusal trauma, YAP transferred into the nucleus, resulting in Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNK) related pro‐inflammatory pathway up‐regulation. L929 cell cyclic stress and LPS stimulation results confirmed the in vivo results. Application of XAV939 inhibited YAP protein dephosphorylation and reduced JNK pro‐inflammatory pathway factor expression in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions

Occlusal trauma can activate YAP nuclear transfer, resulting in the up‐regulation of the JNK pro‐inflammatory pathway. This can be inhibited by the XAV939 YAP inhibitor.
Seepage Characteristics of Emulsion with Phase Transition Behaviors
Authors: Jiang Ping , Li Longjie , Sun Yubao , Zheng Chao , Wu Chunzhou , Wang Shaohua , Zhang Lei , Tang Dengyu , Ge Jijiang , Zhang Guicai , Pei Haihua
Published: October 2020

Petroleum resins have excellent thermal tolerance and selective plugging capability. As the environment temperature exceeds their softening point, petroleum resins transform from a solid into a viscous Newton fluid, accompanied by the transformation of the system from particle dispersoid to emulsion. The presence of phase transition decides that the seepage regularity and plugging characteristics of petroleum resins are different from either particle dispersoid or emulsion. Herein, rheological measurements and physical model flooding experiments were performed to investigate the injection and plugging performance of petroleum resins. A correlation chart of the injection pressure, formation permeability, and the ratio of resin particle size to pore diameter is established. The dispersoid is demonstrated to present good injectivity when the ratio of the resin particle size to the pore‐throat diameter of the porous media is lower than 0.35. Moreover, when the environment temperature is lower than or around the petroleum resin softening point, the injection performance of the dispersoid is not affected by temperature. Comparably, while the environment temperature is 30 °C higher than the resin softening point, the injection pressure increases due to phase transition. As indicated by the plugging experiment, the presented petroleum resin dispersoid plugging agent manifests excellent performance even in the case that the permeability of water‐channeling paths is up to 20 μm2, reaching a water plugging efficiency of over 85%. For water‐channeling fractures with widths of 0.05–0.5 mm, the plugging pressure gradient can exceed 5 MPa m−1. As suggested by combined analysis of injection and plugging performance, the disperse system should be optimized in accordance with the formation condition during field practice. Specifically, the ratio of the resin particle size to the formation pore diameter should be kept lower than 0.35, while the softening point of the petroleum resin should be 10–20 °C lower than the formation temperature.