bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mounting a Regional Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Another Reason to “Keep” Your Lab
Authors: Paczos Tamera A.
Published: July 2020

Context.—

Declining reimbursement shifts hospital laboratories from system assets to cost centers. This has resulted in increased outsourcing of laboratory services, which can jeopardize a hospital systems' ability to respond to a health care crisis.

Objectives.—

To demonstrate that investment in a core laboratory serving an academic medical center equipped a regional health system to respond to the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Design.—

COVID-19 diagnostic testing data were analyzed. Volumes were evaluated by result date (March 16, 2020–May 6, 2020), and the average of received-to-verified turnaround time was calculated and compared for in-house and send-out testing, and different in-house testing methodologies.

Results.—

Daily viral diagnostic testing capacity increased by greater than 3000% (from 21 tests per day to 658 tests per day). Total viral diagnostic testing reported by the core laboratory increased by 128 times during 22 days of test method validation and 826 times during the analysis period, while average turnaround time per day for send-out testing increased from 3.7 days to 21 days. Decreased overall average turnaround time was observed at the core laboratory (0.45 days) versus send-out testing (7.63 days) (P < .001).

Conclusions.—

Investment in a core laboratory provided the health system with the necessary expertise and resources to mount a robust response to the pandemic. Local access to testing allowed rapid triage of patients and conservation of scarce personal protective equipment (PPE). In addition, the core laboratory was able to support regional health departments and several hospitals outside of the system.
Transport-related problems of Bratislava city and its suburbanregion
Authors: Michniak Daniel
Published: July 2020

Increased daily mobility between Bratislava and its hinterland combines with mobility within the city to put demands on the transport system. The massive increase in road transport, connected inter alia with the rapid development of suburbanisation based mainly on individual automobile transport, has caused many problems. This paper introduces some of those problems as manifested in Bratislava and its hinterland – from a geographical perspective – and outlines the way in which an unfavourable situation can be improved. The future of transport in Bratislava and its hinterland requires the creation of a multimodal transport system, which can effectively serve various transport requirements and ensure the mobility of inhabitants.
Mushroom Cultivation as a Viable Income Generating Unit for Livelihood Security: A Success Story of ARYA Project at Turkaulia Block of East Champaran
Authors: Singh Arvind Kumar , Kumari Neelam , Sharma Ram Babu , Kant Shri , Rajput Jitendra , Rai Ashish , Singh Satish Kumar , Gangwar Anshu , Rai Vikas Kumar , Kumar Manish , Kumar Anand
Published: July 2020

To make agriculture sustainable, the price of agricultural commodities must be sufficient but variations in price may occur depending on market demand. So, by adopting mushroom production at rural level farmers may minimize the price gap by price of their mushrooms and ultimately people get good quality of mushroom and mushroom based products like pickle at rural level. This sets good example and also increases extra income from the agriculture at rural level by youth.
Prevalence of Geohelminths in Garden Soil in Emohua Local Government Area in Nigeria
Authors: Amudatu Adedokun Ambali , Barine Gboeloh Lebari , Kingsley Elele
Published: July 2020

Introduction: Geohelminths are parasites which perform part of their life cycle in the soil, where eggs are embryonated and then larvae become viable, being in both stages able to infect their hosts, depending on the species and can affect humans.

Aim: This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of geohelminths in garden soil in Emohua Local Government Area, Rivers State in Nigeria.

Methods: Soil samples from the cultivated area of Rumuakunde and Isiodu district were selected for the study. 164 soil samples were examined for a period of April to May 2019. Geohelminth concentration technique was carried out using zinc sulphate floatation technique and under light microscopy. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics and Chi square (X2) test.

Results: The overall prevalence rate of geohelminths found was 20(12.2%) out of 164 soil samples examined from the selected farm lands. Isiodu Farm F had the highest prevalence of 60% (12/20) followed by   Rumuakunde Farm B, C and E of prevalence 20% (4/20), 15% (3/20) and 5% (1/20) respectively. This distribution among the farm lands were found to be statistically significant (p - <0.05). Hookworm laevae 70% (14/20) and Strongyloides stercoralis 30% (6/20) were geohelminths identified. Other geohelminths were not implicated.

Conclusion: This result of this study has shown that, geohelminths are more prevalent in Isiodu farm lands. The risk of contracting infection is high in these farm locations despite its low prevalence. There is need for zero tolerance to soil contamination.
Enabling Rural Youth to Generate Extra Income through Back Yard Poultry Rearing under ARYA Project in East Champaran
Authors: Singh Arvind Kumar , Kumari Neelam , Sharma Ram Babu , Kant Shri , Rajput Jitendra , Rai Ashish , Singh Satish Kumar , Gangwar Anshu , Rai Vikas Kumar , Kumar Manish , Kumar Anand
Published: July 2020

After Backyard Poultry farming enterprise a monthly income of every member of group is increased up-to Rs. 10500/- per youth per month as in addition to income from agriculture and other sources. This income was calculated on the basis of their yearly income. The consumers are getting healthy and pure chicken and eggs to consume. The farmer getting higher rate of products because of reducing mediator and transportation cost. This sets a good example to attract and retain of youth in agriculture at village level. This also enables youth to production of fresh chicken, eggs and good quality of manures from poultry farm.
Care bundle for both prevention and control of hospital-acquired infection in adult emergency service
Authors: Silva Juliana Krum Cardoso da , Matos Eliane , Souza Sabrina da Silva de
Published: July 2020

Objetivo: Elaborar um bundle de cuidados para a prevenção e o controle das infecções hospitalares em unidade de emergência, com base no conhecimento e prática dos profissionais de saúde e nas evidências científicas disponíveis na literatura. Método: Pesquisa convergente assistencial, realizada em um serviço de emergência adulto de um hospital geral universitário localizado em uma capital do Sul do Brasil com aplicação de um Survey para 52 trabalhadores da equipe multiprofissional e posterior discussão em grupos “Aqui e Agora”.Foi aprovado pelo CEPSH/UFSC com CAAE: 56390616.0.0000.0121. Resultados: Emergiram três aspectos mais significativos que compuseram o bundle de cuidados: higienização das mãos; uso de equipamentos de proteção individual; e assepsia de materiais e equipamentos. Conclusão: a utilização do bundle permite informar, orientar, melhorar hábitos e relembrar a equipe de saúde sobre a necessidade de aderir a atitudes que tornem o cuidado realizado mais qualificado e seguro, tanto para o paciente, quanto para o profissional.
Intersectoral care in mental health in childhood and adolescence: beyond the health institution
Authors: Nunes Cristiane Kenes , Silva Aline Basso da , Kantorski Luciane Prado , Coimbra Valéria Cristina Christello , Olschowsky Agnes
Published: July 2020

Objetivo: Discutir as vivências dos profissionais no cuidado em rede intersetorial voltado à criança e adolescente e suas articulações/trabalho no território.Métodos: Pesquisa qualitativa, exploratório-descritivo, desenvolvida com 26 trabalhadores da rede intersetorial, em um município do Rio Grande do Sul, entre os meses de maio a junho de 2014. Os instrumentos utilizados para a coleta de dados foram entrevistas semiestruturadas com os depoimentos gravados e, posteriormente, transcritos na íntegra.Resultados: O profissional possui uma vivência de rede intersetorial, entendendo que esta rede deve partir de premissas como a interdisciplinaridade e o trabalho em conjunto. Que a rede de cuidado deve transpor serviços de saúde, ampliando olhares para projetos sociais e de inclusão.Conclusão: O território pode ser incorporado como um espaço de cuidado, de relações sociais e de modos de vida, sendo espaço também de vínculos entre profissionais e usuários.
Deformation Behavior of Superalloy Powder Compact under Hot Isostatic Pressing
Authors: Qu Zonghong , Zhang Pingxiang , Liang Shujin , Lai Yunjin , Luo Cheng
Published: July 2020

Herein, the deformation behavior of a superalloy powder compact under hot isostatic pressing (HIP) is investigated by implementing an elastic–plastic constitutive model into the finite element analysis software MSC Marc. The coefficients of the constitutive model are obtained from interrupted HIP experiments. Finite element calculation results for the shape change of the powder compact under HIP agree well with the experimental results. Isothermal HIP and containerless HIP, both of which are based on finite element simulations, are conducted to study the dependence of the deformation on the container and temperature gradient. The stress state in all of the regions in the powder body deviates from the isostatic state of the compact even under isostatic pressing, due to the introduction of von Mises stress under the strong influence of the container. The temperature gradient is affected by the characteristic thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of the porous powder body and container. Nonuniform temperature and stress distribution result in nonuniform densification, which eventually results in uneven powder compact shrinkage.
S6N2O15: ein stickstoffarmes Schwefelnitridoxid und das Anhydrid der Nitrido‐tris‐schwefelsäure
Authors: van Gerven David , Wickleder Mathias S.
Published: July 2020

Die Reaktion von Hexachlorophosphazen, P3N3Cl6, mit SO3 führt zum neuen Schwefelnitridoxid S6N2O15. Die Verbindung weist einen außerordentlich niedrigen Stickstoffgehalt auf und besitzt eine bicyclische Käfigstruktur gemäß der Formulierung N{S(O)2O(O)2S}3N, bei der sich beide Stickstoffatome in trigonal‐planarer Koordination von Schwefelatomen befinden. Bezeichnenderweise kann das neue Nitridoxid auch als das Anhydrid der Nitrido‐tris‐schwefelsäure, N(SO3H)3, aufgefasst werden.
Probing the Design Rationale of a High‐Performing Faujasitic Zeotype Engineered to have Hierarchical Porosity and Moderated Acidity
Authors: Chapman Stephanie , Carravetta Marina , Miletto Ivana , Doherty Cara M. , Dixon Hannah , Taylor James D. , Gianotti Enrica , Yu Jihong , Raja Robert
Published: July 2020

Porosity and acidity are influential properties in the rational design of solid‐acid catalysts. Probing the physicochemical characteristics of an acidic zeotype framework at the molecular level can provide valuable insights in understanding intrinsic reaction pathways, for affording structure–activity relationships. Herein, we employ a variety of probe‐based techniques (including positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), FTIR and solid‐state NMR spectroscopy) to demonstrate how a hierarchical design strategy for a faujasitic (FAU) zeotype (synthesized for the first time, via a soft‐templating approach, with high phase‐purity) can be used to simultaneously modify the porosity and modulate the acidity for an industrially significant catalytic process (Beckmann rearrangement). Detailed characterization of hierarchically porous (HP) SAPO‐37 reveals enhanced mass‐transport characteristics and moderated acidity, which leads to superior catalytic performance and increased resistance to deactivation by coking, compared to its microporous counterpart, further vindicating the interplay between porosity and moderated acidity.
Mechanistic Insights into C(sp2)−C(sp)N Reductive Elimination from Gold(III) Cyanide Complexes
Authors: Genoux Alexandre , González Jorge A. , Merino Estíbaliz , Nevado Cristina
Published: July 2020

A new family of phosphine‐ligated dicyanoarylgold(III) complexes has been prepared and their reactivity towards reductive elimination has been studied in detail. Both, a highly positive entropy of activation and a primary 12/13C KIE suggest a late concerted transition state while Hammett analysis and DFT calculations indicate that the process is asynchronous. As a result, a distinct mechanism involving an asynchronous concerted reductive elimination for the overall C(sp2)−C(sp)N bond forming reaction is characterized herein, for the first time, complementing previous studies reported for C(sp3)−C(sp3), C(sp2)−C(sp2), and C(sp3)−C(sp2) bond formation processes taking place on gold(III) species.
Single‐Molecule 3D Orientation Imaging Reveals Nanoscale Compositional Heterogeneity in Lipid Membranes
Authors: Lu Jin , Mazidi Hesam , Ding Tianben , Zhang Oumeng , Lew Matthew D.
Published: July 2020

In soft matter, thermal energy causes molecules to continuously translate and rotate, even in crowded environments, thereby impacting the spatial organization and function of most molecular assemblies, such as lipid membranes. Directly measuring the orientation and spatial organization of large collections (>3000 molecules μm−2) of single molecules with nanoscale resolution remains elusive. In this paper, we utilize SMOLM, single‐molecule orientation localization microscopy, to directly measure the orientation spectra (3D orientation plus “wobble”) of lipophilic probes transiently bound to lipid membranes, revealing that Nile red's (NR) orientation spectra are extremely sensitive to membrane chemical composition. SMOLM images resolve nanodomains and enzyme‐induced compositional heterogeneity within membranes, where NR within liquid‐ordered vs. liquid‐disordered domains shows a ≈4° difference in polar angle and a ≈0.3π sr difference in wobble angle. As a new type of imaging spectroscopy, SMOLM exposes the organizational and functional dynamics of lipid‐lipid, lipid‐protein, and lipid‐dye interactions with single‐molecule, nanoscale resolution.
Axial Modification of Cobalt Complexes on Heterogeneous Surface with Enhanced Electron Transfer for Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Wang Jiong , Huang Xiang , Xi Shibo , Xu Hu , Wang Xin
Published: July 2020

Efficient electron communication between molecular catalyst and support is critical for heterogeneous molecular electrocatalysis and yet it is often overlooked during the catalyst design. Taking CO2 electro‐reduction on tetraphenylporphyrin cobalt (PCo) immobilized onto graphene as an example, we demonstrate that adding a relay molecule improves the interfacial electron communication. While the directly immobilized PCo on graphene exhibits relatively poor electron communications, it is found that diphenyl sulfide serves as an axial ligand for PCo and it improves the redox activity of PCo on the graphene surface to facilitate the generation of [PCo].‐ active sites for CO2 reduction. Thus, the turnover frequencies of the immobilized Co complexes are increased. Systematic structural analysis indicates that the benzene rings of diphenyl sulfide exhibit strong face‐to‐face stacking with graphene, which is proposed as an efficient medium to facilitate the interfacial electron communication.
Construction of Flexible‐on‐Rigid Hybrid‐Phase Metal–Organic Frameworks for Controllable Multi‐Drug Delivery
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Gang , Xu Lei , Li Min‐Jie , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: July 2020

Multi‐component MOFs contain multiple sets of unique and hierarchical pores, with different functions for different applications, distributed in their inter‐linked domains. Herein, we report the construction of a class of precisely aligned flexible‐on‐rigid hybrid‐phase MOFs with a unique rods‐on‐octahedron morphology. We demonstrated that hybrid‐phase MOFs can be constructed based on two prerequisites: the partially matched topology at the interface of the two frameworks, and the structural flexibility of MOFs with acs topology, which can compensate for the differences in lattice parameters. Furthermore, we achieved domain selective loading of multiple guest molecules into the hybrid‐phase MOF, as observed by scanning transmission electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry elemental mapping. Most importantly, we successfully applied the constructed hybrid‐phase MOF to develop a dual‐drug delivery system with controllable loading ratio and release kinetics.
Investigation of HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitory and antioxidant effects of various hydroxycoumarin derivatives
Authors: Ozalp Lalehan , Danış Özkan , Yuce‐Dursun Basak , Demir Serap , Gündüz Cihan , Ogan Ayse
Published: July 2020

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the primary causes of deaths worldwide, and the development of atherosclerosis is closely related to hypercholesterolemia. As the reduction of the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level is critical for treating these diseases, the inhibition of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase, which is essentially responsible for cholesterol biosynthesis, stands out as a key solution to lower plasma cholesterol levels. In this study, we synthesized several dihydroxycoumarins and investigated their antioxidant and in vitro HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitory effects. Furthermore, we carried out in silico studies and examined the quantum‐chemical properties of the coumarin derivatives. We also performed molecular docking experiments and analyzed the binding strength of each coumarin derivative. Our results revealed that compound IV displayed the highest HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitory activity (IC50 = 42.0 µM) in vitro. Cupric‐reducing antioxidant capacity and ferric‐reducing antioxidant power assays demonstrated that coumarin derivatives exhibit potent antioxidant activities. Additionally, a close relationship was found between the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy levels and the antioxidant activities.
In vitro vascularized tumor platform for modeling tumor‐vasculature interactions of inflammatory breast cancer
Authors: Gadde Manasa , Phillips Caleb , Ghousifam Neda , Sorace Anna G. , Wong Enoch , Krishnamurthy Savitri , Syed Anum , Rahal Omar , Yankeelov Thomas E. , Woodward Wendy A. , Rylander Marissa N.
Published: July 2020

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), a rare form of breast cancer associated with increased angiogenesis and metastasis, is largely driven by tumor‐stromal interactions with the vasculature and the extracellular matrix (ECM). However, there is currently a lack of understanding of the role these interactions play in initiation and progression of the disease. In this study, we developed the first three‐dimensional, in vitro, vascularized, microfluidic IBC platform to quantify the spatial and temporal dynamics of tumor‐vasculature and tumor‐ECM interactions specific to IBC. Platforms consisting of collagen type 1 ECM with an endothelialized blood vessel were cultured with IBC cells, MDA‐IBC3 (HER2+) or SUM149 (triple negative), and for comparison to non‐IBC cells, MDA‐MB‐231 (triple negative). Acellular collagen platforms with endothelialized blood vessels served as controls. SUM149 and MDA‐MB‐231 platforms exhibited a significantly (p < .05) higher vessel permeability and decreased endothelial coverage of the vessel lumen compared to the control. Both IBC platforms, MDA‐IBC3 and SUM149, expressed higher levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (p < .05) and increased collagen ECM porosity compared to non‐IBCMDA‐MB‐231 (p < .05) and control (p < .01) platforms. Additionally, unique to the MDA‐IBC3 platform, we observed progressive sprouting of the endothelium over time resulting in viable vessels with lumen. The newly sprouted vessels encircled clusters of MDA‐IBC3 cells replicating a key feature of in vivo IBC. The IBC in vitro vascularized platforms introduced in this study model well‐described in vivo and clinical IBC phenotypes and provide an adaptable, high throughput tool for systematically and quantitatively investigating tumor‐stromal mechanisms and dynamics of tumor progression.
Genome‐scale modeling for Bacillus coagulans to understand the metabolic characteristics
Authors: Chen Yu , Sun Yan , Liu Zhihao , Dong Fengqing , Li Yuanyuan , Wang Yonghong
Published: July 2020

Lactic acid is widely used in many industries, especially in the production of poly‐lactic acid. Bacillus coagulans is a promising lactic acid producer in industrial fermentation due to its thermophilic property. In this study, we developed the first genome‐scale metabolic model (GEM) of B. coagulans iBag597, together with an enzyme‐constrained model ec‐iBag597. We measured strain‐specific biomass composition and integrated the data into a biomass equation. Then, we validated iBag597 against experimental data generated in this study, including amino acid requirements and carbon source utilization, showing that simulations were generally consistent with the experimental results. Subsequently, we carried out chemostats to investigate the effects of specific growth rate and culture pH on metabolism of B. coagulans. Meanwhile, we used iBag597 to estimate the intracellular metabolic fluxes for those conditions. The results showed that B. coagulans was capable of generating ATP via multiple pathways, and switched among them in response to various conditions. With ec‐iBag597, we estimated the protein cost and protein efficiency for each ATP‐producing pathway to investigate the switches. Our models pave the way for systems biology of B. coagulans, and our findings suggest that maintaining a proper growth rate and selecting an optimal pH are beneficial for lactate fermentation.
Evolution of an educational microprocessor
Authors: Mezei Ivan
Published: July 2020

Arising from the need to help students learn commercial assembly language programming more easily, Edulent microprocessor has evolved into an integrated educational tool. It is completely designed, developed, and verified targeting field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) and system on chip (SoC) implementations. Its evolution started almost two decades ago with a formal specification, continued through various implementations (both hardware and software) fulfilling several, mainly educational requirements. The educational impact on acquiring core learning outcomes in microprocessor architecture and assembly language programming is evaluated and assessed based on several questionnaires and results of laboratory assignments. The latest FPGA and SoC‐based implementations have shown further potential for students to acquire new knowledge in the field of microprocessor design, implementation, and verification.
Therapy preferences in melanoma treatment—Willingness to pay and preference of quality versus length of life of patients, physicians, healthy individuals and physicians with oncological disease
Authors: Weiss Julia , Kirchberger Michael Constantin , Heinzerling Lucie
Published: July 2020

Background

In recent years, monoclonal antibodies such as ipilimumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab have made a significant impact on the treatment of advanced melanoma. Combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors leads to improved survival and response rates of 58%‐61% as compared to monotherapy (36%‐44%). However, the price for the better response rates is also a higher frequency of severe adverse events (59%) as compared to monotherapy (17%‐21%). This study examines attitudes towards melanoma therapy options of physicians, healthy individuals, melanoma patients, and physicians with oncological disease, their willingness to pay, and preference of quality versus length of life.

Methods

After obtaining ethical approval and informed consent surveys were conducted in 111 participants divided into four groups: melanoma patients (n = 30), healthy individuals as controls (n = 30), physicians (n = 27), and physicians with oncological disease (n = 24). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS statistics (version 25, IBM), applying the Pearson´s chi‐squared test, Spearman correlation coefficient, Wilcoxon‐Mann‐Whitney test, and Kruskal‐Wallis test.

Results

Life prolongation is more valued by melanoma patients and physicians with oncological disease compared to healthy controls and healthy physicians. In total, 30% of melanoma patients opt for a life prolonging therapy in all cases, even if this life prolongation is only marginal. Physicians are the strongest proponents of combination immunotherapy.   

Conclusion

The valuation of the different treatment options differs in the four study groups with affected people valuing life prolongation much more. The individual value of cancer therapies is high, but differs from the societal standpoint.
Metastases of soft tissue sarcoma to the liver: A Historical Cohort Study from a Hospital‐based Cancer Registry
Authors: Okamoto Masanori , Matsuoka Masatake , Soma Tamotsu , Arai Ryuta , Kato Hidenori , Harabayashi Toru , Adachi Hirohumi , Shinohara Toshiki , Sagawa Tamotsu , Nishiyama Noriaki , Nambu Toshikazu , Sakai Wataru , Suzuki Hiroaki , Kato Hiroyuki , Hiraga Hiroaki
Published: July 2020

Background

Hepatic metastasis of soft tissue sarcoma is rare compared to lung metastasis, and the literature is scarce. We examined the risk of hepatic metastasis according to the site of occurrence and histological type.

Methods

From a Hospital‐based Cancer Registry, 658 patients registered between 2007 and 2017 with soft tissue sarcomas were evaluated. The exclusion criteria were gastrointestinal stromal tumors, tumors of unknown origin, and follow‐up periods of less than 1 month. SPSS 25 was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The risk of hepatic metastasis was significantly higher in the retroperitoneum (HR, 5.981; 95% CI, 2.793‐12.808) and leiomyosarcoma (HR, 4.303; 95% CI, 1.782‐10.390). Multivariate analysis showed that the risk of hepatic metastasis as first distant metastasis was high in leiomyosarcoma (HR, 4.546; 95% CI, 2.275‐9.086) and retroperitoneal onset (HR, 4.588; 95% CI, 2.280‐9.231). The 2‐year survival rate after hepatic metastasis was 21.7%.

Conclusions

The onset of hepatic metastasis indicates a poor prognosis. However, hepatic metastasis from retroperitoneal sarcoma and leiomyosarcoma may be the first distant metastasis in some cases. For retroperitoneal sarcoma and leiomyosarcoma, additional screening for hepatic metastasis such as contrast CT should be considered during staging and follow‐up after treatment.
Detachment of a prosthetic valve due to infective endocarditis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Nakamura Saori , Hanayama Naoji , Matushita Hiroshi , Sakaki Kenjiro
Published: July 2020

The incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) due to S pneumoniae has decreased, thanks to antibiotics. However, when it does occur, it can be lethal. The present case provides a reminder of the potential lethality of this postoperative infection.
One‐Step Synthesis of Spin Crossover Nanoparticles Using Flow Chemistry and Supercritical CO2
Authors: Daro Nathalie , Vaudel Tony , Afindouli Luc , Marre Samuel , Aymonier Cyril , Chastanet Guillaume
Published: July 2020

Switchable materials are increasingly considered for implementation in devices or multifunctional composites leading to a strong need in terms of reliable synthetic productions of well‐defined objects. Here, an innovative and robust template‐free continuous process was developed to synthesize nanoparticles of a switchable coordination polymer, including the use of supercritical CO2, aiming at both quenching the particle growth and drying the powder. This all‐in‐one process offers a 12‐fold size reduction in a few minutes while maintaining the switching properties of the selected spin crossover coordination polymer.
Reversibly Switchable Fluorescent Molecular Systems Based on Metallacarborane–Perylenediimide Conjugates
Authors: Parejo Laura , Chaari Mahdi , Santiago Sara , Guirado Gonzalo , Teixidor Francesc , Núñez Rosario , Hernando Jordi
Published: July 2020

Icosahedral metallacarboranes are θ‐shaped anionic molecules in which two icosahedra share one vertex that is a metal center. The most remarkable of these compounds is the anionic cobalt‐based metallacarborane [Co(C2B9H11)2]−, whose oxidation‐reduction processes occur via an outer sphere electron process. This, along with its low density negative charge, makes [Co(C2B9H11)2]− very appealing to participate in electron‐transfer processes. In this work, [Co(C2B9H11)2]− is tethered to a perylenediimide dye to produce the first examples of switchable luminescent molecules and materials based on metallacarboranes. In particular, the electronic communication of [Co(C2B9H11)2]− with the appended chromophore unit in these compounds can be regulated upon application of redox stimuli, which allows the reversible modulation of the emitted fluorescence. As such, they behave as electrochemically‐controlled fluorescent molecular switches in solution, which surpass the performance of previous systems based on conjugates of perylendiimides with ferrocene. Remarkably, they can form gels by treatment with appropriate mixtures of organic solvents, which result from the self‐assembly of the cobaltabisdicarbollide‐perylendiimide conjugates into 1D nanostructures. The interplay between dye π‐stacking and metallacarborane electronic and steric interactions ultimately governs the supramolecular arrangement in these materials, which for one of the compounds prepared allows preserving the luminescent behavior in the gel state.
Magnetic Correlation Engineering in Spin‐Sandwiched Layered Magnetic Frameworks
Authors: Fukunaga Hiroki , Kosaka Wataru , Nemoto Honoka , Taniguchi Kouji , Kawaguchi Shogo , Sugimoto Kunihisa , Miyasaka Hitoshi
Published: July 2020

The insertion of “sandwiched spins” between magnetic layers could efficiently affect the interlayer magnetic correlations, but doing so increases the complexity in the interlayer spin alignment because of competition between the inserted spin‐layer interaction JNNI and the interlayer through‐space interaction JNNNI if the magnitude of JNNI is of the same order as JNNNI with reciprocal signs of the respective interactions. Herein, systematic tuning of the magnetic phase variations by JNNI and JNNNI in two kinds of metal‐variable isostructural series of supramolecular pillared layer magnets [MCp*2][{Ru2II,II(2,3,5,6‐F4CO2)4}2(TCNQ)]⋅2 DCE (M=Co, Fe, Cr; 2,3,5,6‐F4PhCO2−=2,3,5,6‐tetrafluorobenzoate; TCNQ=7,7,8,8‐tetracyano‐p‐quinodimethane; DCE=1,2‐dichloroethane) and their DCE‐free series, in which [MCp*2]+ (Cp*=η5‐C5Me5) species with S=0, 1/2, and 3/2 for M=Co, Fe, Cr, respectively, are sandwiched between ferrimagnetic layers of [{Ru2}2(TCNQ)]−, is demonstrated. The results showed that the flexible magnetic natures of these magnets are changeable in dependence on JNNI and JNNNI, as well as on interlayer inserted spins M.
Enhancing Robustness of Sortase A by Loop Engineering and Backbone Cyclization
Authors: Zou Zhi , Mate Diana M. , Nöth Maximilian , Jakob Felix , Schwaneberg Ulrich
Published: July 2020

Staphylococcus aureus sortase A (SaSrtA) is widely used for site‐specific protein modifications, but it lacks the robustness for performing bioconjugation reactions at elevated temperatures or in presence of denaturing agents. Loop engineering and subsequent head‐to‐tail backbone cyclization of SaSrtA yielded the cyclized variant CyM6 that has a 7.5 °C increased melting temperature and up to 4.6‐fold increased resistance towards denaturants when compared to the parent rM4. CyM6 gained up to 2.6‐fold (vs. parent rM4) yield of conjugate in ligation of peptide and primary amine under denaturing conditions.
Metal/Metal Redox Isomerism Governed by Configuration
Authors: Ludwig Stephan , Helmdach Kai , Hüttenschmidt Mareike , Oberem Elisabeth , Rabeah Jabor , Villinger Alexander , Ludwig Ralf , Seidel Wolfram W.
Published: July 2020

A pair of diastereomeric dinuclear complexes, [Tp′(CO)BrW{μ‐η2‐C,C′‐κ2‐S,P‐C2(PPh2)S}Ru(η5‐C5H5)(PPh3)], in which W and Ru are bridged by a phosphinyl(thiolato)alkyne in a side‐on carbon P,S‐chelate coordination mode, were synthesized, separated and fully characterized. Even though the isomers are similar in their spectroscopic properties and redox potentials, the like‐isomer is oxidized at W while the unlike‐isomer is oxidized at Ru, which is proven by IR, NIR and EPR‐spectroscopy supported by spectro‐electrochemistry and computational methods. The second oxidation of the complexes was shown to take place at the metal left unaffected in the first redox step. Finally, the tipping point could be realized in the unlike isomer of the electronically tuned thiophenolate congener [Tp′(CO)(PhS)W{μ‐η2‐C,C′‐κ2‐S,P‐C2(PPh2)S}Ru(η5‐C5H5)‐(PPh3)], in which valence trapped WIII/RuII and WII/RuIII cationic species are at equilibrium.
Effect of Mild and Moderate Hepatic Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of a Single Dose of Oral Ivosidenib in Otherwise Healthy Participants
Authors: Fan Bin , Dai David , Cohen Marvin , Xu Huansheng , Yin Feng , Nagaraja Raj , Mobilia Michelle , Almon Caroline , Basile Frank G. , Yang Hua
Published: July 2020

Ivosidenib, a small‐molecule inhibitor of mutant isocitrate dehydrogenase 1, is primarily cleared by hepatic metabolism. This open‐label study investigated the impact of hepatic impairment on ivosidenib pharmacokinetics (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03282513). Otherwise healthy participants with mild (n = 9) or moderate (n = 8) hepatic impairment (Child‐Pugh score) and matched participants with normal hepatic function (n = 16) received 1 oral dose of 500‐mg ivosidenib. Mild hepatic impairment had a negligible effect on total ivosidenib plasma exposure, with geometric mean ratios (90% confidence interval [CI]) of 0.933 (0.715‐1.22) for maximum concentration (Cmax) and 0.847 (0.624‐1.15) for area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) in participants with mild hepatic impairment versus matched controls. Moderate hepatic impairment reduced total ivosidenib exposure by 28% to 44%, with geometric mean ratios (90%CI) of 0.565 (0.419‐0.763) for Cmax and 0.716 (0.479‐1.07) for AUC, although the 90%CI for AUC included 1.00. The ivosidenib unbound fraction was concentration dependent and higher in participants with mild/moderate hepatic impairment compared with matched controls. There was no apparent trend to increasing unbound Cmax with increased hepatic impairment severity. A single 500‐mg ivosidenib dose was well tolerated, with no serious or severe adverse events and no adverse events leading to discontinuation. We conclude that mild/moderate hepatic impairment did not lead to clinically relevant changes in ivosidenib exposure following a single 500‐mg dose.
Generation of transgenic mice that conditionally express microRNA miR‐145
Authors: Sawant Dwitiya , Klevenow Emilie , Baeten Jeremy T. , Thomas Shelby , Manivannan Sathiyanarayanan , Conway Simon J. , Lilly Brenda
Published: July 2020

MicroRNAs are modulators of cellular phenotypes and their functions contribute to development, homeostasis, and disease. miR‐145 is a conserved microRNA that has been implicated in regulating an array of phenotypes. These include supporting smooth muscle differentiation, repression of stem cell pluripotency, and inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis. Previously, our lab demonstrated that miR‐145 acts to suppress cardiac fibrosis through inhibition of the TGF‐β signaling pathway. The range of effects that miR‐145 has on different cell types makes it an attractive microRNA for further study. Here we describe the generation of transgenic mice that conditionally express miR‐145 through Cre recombinase‐mediated activation. Characterization of individual founder lines indicates that overexpression of miR‐145 in the developing cardiovascular system has detrimental effects, with three independent miR‐145 transgenic lines exhibiting Cre‐dependent lethality. Expression analysis demonstrates that the transgene is robustly expressed and our analysis reveals a novel downstream target of miR‐145, Tnnt2. The miR‐145 transgenic mice represent a valuable tool to understand the role of miR‐145 in diverse cell types and to address its potential as a therapeutic mediator for the treatment of disease.
Minimum weighted clique cover on claw‐free perfect graphs
Authors: Bonomo Flavia , Oriolo Gianpaolo , Snels Claudia
Published: July 2020

The first combinatorial algorithm for the minimum weighted clique cover (MWCC) in a claw‐free perfect graph due to Hsu and Nemhauser dates back to 1984. It is essentially a “dual” algorithm as it relies on any algorithm for the maximum weighted stable set (MWSS) problem in claw‐free graphs and, taking into account the best‐known complexity for the latter problem, its complexity is . More recently, Chudnovsky and Seymour introduced a composition operation, strip composition, to define their structural results for claw‐free graphs; however, this composition operation is general and applies to nonclaw‐free graphs as well. In this paper, we show that an MWCC of a perfect strip‐composed graph, with the basic graphs belonging to a class , can be found in polynomial time, provided that the MWCC problem can be solved on in polynomial time. For the case of claw‐free perfect strip‐composed graphs, the algorithm can be tailored so that it never requires the computation of an MWSS on the strips and can be implemented as to run in time. Finally, building upon several results from the literature, we show how to deal with nonstrip‐composed claw‐free perfect graphs, and therefore compute an MWCC in a general claw‐free perfect graph in time.
Adult Sockeye Salmon Gastrically Tagged Near Spawning Grounds Exhibit Lower Survival Rates throughout the Spawning Period than Externally Tagged Conspecifics
Authors: Dick M. , Patterson D. A. , Robinson K. A. , Eliason E. J. , Hinch S. G. , Cooke S. J.
Published: July 2020

Telemetry is a common tool for studying the behavior and fate of migrating adult Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp., yet few field studies have compared behavior and fate associated with different tagging techniques. In this study, adult Harrison River (British Columbia) Sockeye Salmon O. nerka were captured in their natal river near spawning areas, radio-tagged by gastric insertion or external attachment in the dorsum, and released. Tagging occurred on 5 d spread over 3–8 weeks prior to spawning, thus encompassing fish in varying stages of maturity and freshwater residency. Tagged individuals were monitored over the spawning season by using fixed receiver stations and mobile tracking. The probability of fish moving upstream or downstream of the tagging site within 35 h of tagging was a function of tagging date but not tag type. Tag type significantly influenced fate, with almost twice as many externally tagged fish (41.6%; 42 of 101) surviving to reach spawning areas compared to gastrically tagged fish (22.4%; 21 of 94). The number of active externally tagged fish in the Harrison River system was consistently greater than the number of active gastrically tagged fish that received tags on the same date for four of the five tagging dates. External tag attachment may be a better approach than gastric insertion for studies that tag adult salmon near or on spawning areas.
Comparison of cernitin pollen extract vs tadalafil therapy for refractory chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: A randomized, prospective study
Authors: Matsukawa Yoshihisa , Naito Yushi , Funahashi Yasuhito , Ishida Shohei , Fujita Takashi , Tochigi Kosuke , Kato Masashi , Gotoh Momokazu
Published: July 2020

Aims

To compare the efficacy of cernitin pollen extract (cernitin) or tadalafil for treating persistent chronic pelvic pain despite α1‐blocker monotherapy in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Methods

A total of 100 patients with refractory CP/CPPS despite ongoing α1‐blocker monotherapy were randomized to receive add‐on therapy with either cernitin (4 capsules/day) or tadalafil (5 mg/d) for 12 weeks. At week 12, changes from baseline in the patients’ CP/CPPS, LUTS, and voiding function, as assessed using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH‐CPSI), the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and uroflowmetry, respectively, were compared between the groups.

Results

The final analysis included 42 and 45 patients in the cernitin and tadalafil groups, respectively. Although the NIH‐CPSI total, NIH‐CPSI pain sub‐score, and NIH‐CPSI quality of life sub‐score significantly improved in both groups, the cernitin (vs tadalafil) group showed significantly greater improvements in the NIH‐CPSI total score (−6.8 vs −4.6; P = .02) and NIH‐CPSI pain sub‐score (−4.1 vs −1.5; P < .001). Half (50%) of the patients in the cernitin group showed a reduction greater than 50% in their NIH‐CPSI pain sub‐score; in the tadalafil group, only four patients (8.9%) showed ≥50% improvement (P < .001). In contrast, the improvement in LUTS was significantly superior in the tadalafil group.

Conclusion

Both cernitin and tadalafil significantly ameliorated chronic pelvic pain in patients with refractory CP/CPPS. The add‐on of cernitin was more effective than tadalafil for pelvic pain and discomfort.
An urgent case for sensory urgency: A patient perspective
Authors: Meijlink Jane
Published: July 2020

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) patients around the world are all too familiar with the immense stress and anxiety caused by an urgent and frequent need to void, leading to many patients with IC/BPS staying at home in social isolation since they are afraid that they will not find a public toilet when they urgently need it. It is therefore of great concern that for almost two decades the “sensory” type of urgency due to intolerable pain or unpleasant sensation as typically experienced by this group of patients has no longer been officially recognized, researched or treated as a symptom of IC/BPS. This official misrepresentation of IC/BPS symptoms needs to be addressed and rectified for the sake of patients and to ensure medical accuracy in research.
Robust topology optimization under multiple independent uncertainties of loading positions
Authors: Wang Dong , Gao Weifeng
Published: July 2020

The topology optimization problem of a continuum structure is further investigated under the independent position uncertainties of multiple external loads, which are now described with an interval vector of uncertain‐but‐bounded variables. In this study, the structural compliance is formulated with the quadratic Taylor series expansion of multiple loading positions. As a result, the objective gradient information to the topological variables can be evaluated efficiently upon an explicit quadratic expression as the loads deviate from their ideal application points. Based on the minimum (largest absolute) value of design sensitivities, which corresponds to the most sensitive compliance to the load position variations, a two‐level optimization algorithm within the non‐probabilistic approach is developed upon a gradient‐based optimization method. The proposed framework is then performed to achieve the robust optimal configurations of four benchmark examples, and the final designs are compared comprehensively with the traditional topology optimizations under the loading point fixation. It will be observed that the present methodology can provide a remarkably different structural layout with the auxiliary components in the design domain to counteract the load position uncertainties. The numerical results also show that the present robust topology optimization can effectively prevent the structural performance from a noticeable deterioration than the deterministic optimization in the presence of load position disturbances.
Diels‐Alder Reactivity of a Chiral Anthracene Template with Symmetrical and Unsymmetrical Dienophiles: A DFT Study
Authors: Hernández‐Mancera Jennifer P. , Núñez‐Zarur Francisco , Vivas‐Reyes Ricardo
Published: July 2020

In this work, we used Density Functional Theory calculations to assess the factors that control the reactivity of a chiral anthracene template with three sets of dienophiles including maleic anhydrides, maleimides and acetoxy lactones in the context of Diels‐Alder cycloadditions. The results obtained here (at the M06‐2X/6‐311++G(d,p) level of theory) suggest that the activation energies for maleic anhydrides and acetoxy lactones are dependent on the nature of the substituent in the dienophile. Among all studied substituents, only −CN reduces the energy barrier of the cycloaddition. For maleimides, the activation energies are independent of the heteroatom of the dienophile and the R group attached to it. The analysis of frontier molecular orbitals, charge transfer and the activation strain model (at the M06‐2X/TZVP level based on M06‐2X/6‐311++G(d,p) geometries) suggest that the activation energies in maleic anhydrides are mainly controlled by the amount of charge transfer from the diene to the dienophile during cycloaddition. For maleimides, there is a dual control of interaction and strain energies on the activation energies, whereas for the acetoxy lactones the activation energies seem to be controlled by the degree of template distortion at the transition state. Finally, calculations show that considering a catalyst on the studied cycloadditions changes the reaction mechanism from concerted to stepwise and proceed with much lower activation energies.
Implementing a comprehensive behavioral health model for social, emotional, and behavioral development in an urban district: An applied study
Authors: Battal Jill , Pearrow Melissa M. , Kaye Amy J.
Published: July 2020

Urban communities are disproportionality impacted by issues such as community violence, leaving children at higher risk of trauma, and increased adverse childhood experiences. This applied study addresses a research‐to‐practice gap by demonstrating the longitudinal impact of a district‐initiated, school‐wide multitiered systems of support approach to universal instruction, intervention, and assessment—the Comprehensive Behavioral Health Model. Results from more than 1200 students over a 3‐year period indicate that this universal, integrated approach is associated with improved outcomes for students with a demonstrated level of risk, with the greatest impact on students with risk of internalizing behaviors. The findings of this applied study highlight the benefits of a systemic approach and enhance the discourse on robust universal screenings that can identify needs and assets of children within urban communities.
Nanog mediates tobacco smoke‐induced enhancement of renal cancer stem cell properties
Authors: Zhang Taotao , Sun Hongliang , Liu Rui , Cao Wanshuang , Zhang Tao , Li Enlai , Sun Xianchao , Wu Wangyu , Yu Dexin , Zhong Caiyun
Published: July 2020

Nanog plays an important role in the regulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) which participate in tumorgenesis and progression. In renal cancer, tobacco smoke (TS) is considered a major risk factor. However, the molecular mechanism by which TS induces the development of renal CSC properties remains largely unknown. In this study, we showed that the level of Nanog was elevated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients with a smoking history, and that Nanog overexpression promoted the traits of CSCs in renal cancer. We further demonstrated that a 8‐week exposure of TS enhanced the formation of renal tumorspheres, increased the population of CD133‐positive cells, and stimulated the expression of Nanog and CSC markers. In addition, TS was found to play a role in accelerating the cell growth transition from G1 to S phase in renal CSCs. Finally, we demonstrated that the TS‐induced effects in renal CSCs could be reversed through the downregulation of Nanog. Our results suggested that Nanog plays a role in mediating TS‐induced renal CSC properties. This study may provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of TS‐related renal tumorigenesis, which can contribute to the future development of therapeutics for renal cancer.