bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Stability and Exciton Diffusion of Self‐Assembled 2D Lattices of Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Lorenzon Monica , Jurow Matthew , Hong Min Ji , Lu Yi‐Hsien , Barnard Edward S. , Salmeron Miquel , Liu Yi , Penzo Erika , Schwartzberg Adam M. , Weber‐Bargioni Alexander
Published: July 2020

Colloidal inorganic perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) are solution‐processable optoelectronic materials whose emission can be easily tuned via both size and composition while maintaining high photoluminescence quantum yield. Despite their relative defect tolerance, they suffer from photoinduced damage and degradation under ambient conditions. The lack of long‐term stability is addressed by investigating how a ≈3 nm transparent ceramic coating applied onto a thin layer of close‐packed PNCs via atomic layer deposition (ALD) affects the exciton mobility across the PNCs. Samples coated via both thermal and plasma ALD are compared, as well as an uncoated one. Exciton diffusion measurements yield a record value for all samples, up to λD = 480 ± 24 nm, one order of magnitude larger than the previously reported values for chalcogenide quantum dots and more than two times larger than what was previously found for the PNCs. Moreover, the ALD‐coated samples show stable photoluminescence intensity and energy over 1 year time span. The measurement approach allows for discerning minimal variations in the local luminescence and qualitatively correlating them to the samples’ morphology. Hence, it is shown that PNCs coated with an ultrathin ALD film become a very versatile optoelectronic material that can be employed in devices beyond proof of principle.
A Bioactive Living Hydrogel: Photosynthetic Bacteria Mediated Hypoxia Elimination and Bacteria‐Killing to Promote Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Li Wanlin , Wang Shoujie , Zhong Danni , Du Zhen , Zhou Min
Published: July 2020

Disruption and vasoconstriction of the blood vessels that results in tissue hypoxia can retard the wound healing process. Transcutaneous oxygen delivery for the hypoxic tissue has been shown to be an effective method for enhanced wound regeneration, for example, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and topical oxygen therapy. However, these techniques' clinical applications are limited by high cost and complicated protocols. To combat this, a bioactive living hydrogel based on photosynthetic microorganisms is designed for enhanced wound healing by production and local delivery of oxygen to alleviate acute and chronic tissue hypoxia. Spirulina platensis (SP), a type of photosynthetic bacteria is coated with the natural polymer carboxymethyl chitosan to obtain the SP gel, which keeps the oxygen generation capability of the SP while promoting its adhesion to the infected wound. Moreover, chlorophyll, a natural photosensitizer, is released from the SP irradiated with 650‐nm laser, and generates reactive oxygen species, thereby causing photodynamic destruction of bacteria in the infectious area. Cytotoxicity assays and in vivo toxicity assessment demonstrate the excellent biocompatibility of the gel. The SP gel is easy to obtain, cheap for mass production, and convenient for usage, which is promising for clinical application.
A Novel α‐MoO3/Single‐Walled Carbon Nanohorns Composite as High‐Performance Anode Material for Fast‐Charging Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Sahu Sumit Ranjan , Rikka Vallabha Rao , Haridoss Prathap , Chatterjee Abhijit , Gopalan Raghavan , Prakash Raju
Published: July 2020

Orthorhombic α‐MoO3is a potential anode material for lithium‐ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity of 1100 mAh g−1and excellent structural stability. However, its intrinsic poor electronic conductivity and high volume expansion during the charge–discharge process impede it from achieving a high practical capacity. A novel composite of α‐MoO3nanobelts and single‐walled carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs) is synthesized by a facile microwave hydrothermal technique and demonstrated as a high‐performance anode material for lithium‐ion batteries. The α‐MoO3/SWCNH composite displays superior electrochemical properties (654 mAh g−1at 1 C), excellent rate capability (275 mAh g−1at 5 C), and outstanding cycle life (capacity retention of >99% after 3000 cycles at 1 C) without any cracking of the electrode. The presence of SWCNHs in the composite enhances the electrochemical properties of α‐MoO3by acting as a lithium storage material, electronic conductive medium, and buffer against pulverization.
Do adipokines levels influence facial attractiveness of young women?
Authors: Żelaźniewicz Agnieszka , Nowak Judyta , Studzińska Ida , Pawłowski Bogusław
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Facial attractiveness is thought to reflect an individual's biological condition. This seems to be largely explained by the relationship between facial appearance and body adiposity, a trait that affects various aspects of body homeostasis, including fertility and immunity. The aim of this study was to test if, a part of adipose tissue amount, also levels of hormones secreted by adipose tissue are reflected in women's appearance, focusing on the two most abundant adipokines. Due to the opposing effects of adiponectin and leptin on health, we hypothesized that leptin negatively and adiponectin positively correlate with women's attractiveness.

Methods

The study sample included 174 young, healthy women (Mage = 28.50, SDage = 2.38). Serum leptin and adiponectin levels were measured. Estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), and BMI levels were controlled in the analyses. Face photographs were taken and facial attractiveness ratings, assessed by men, were gathered in online questionnaires.

Results

Perceived facial attractiveness correlated negatively with leptin level and leptin/adiponectin ratio, but did not correlate with adiponectin level. The results were similar, when controlled for E2, T, and BMI. Adipokines levels did not mediate or moderate the relationship between facial attractiveness and BMI.

Conclusions

The results showed that perceived facial attractiveness is predicted by adipose‐derived hormones detrimental for health, like leptin, but is not related with beneficial hormones, such as adiponectin. However, the levels of these two adipokines do not impact the relationship between perceived facial attractiveness and adiposity, and thus do not explain the relationship between facial attractiveness, body adiposity, and biological condition.
No difference in dementia prediction between apolipoprotein E4 and the ischemic score
Authors: Oveisgharan Shahram , Hachinski Vladimir
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Few biomarkers exist for early detection of vascular cognitive impairment. We examined whether the Hachinski Ischemic Scale (HIS) can predict dementia in elderly.

Methods

We leveraged data of the Canadian Study of Health and Aging. First, we examined the association of HIS with incident dementia. Next, we compared HIS to apolipoprotein E (APOE ɛ4) in prediction of dementia. We trained the HIS and APOE ɛ4 models in the training dataset and used the trained models for dementia prediction in the validation dataset.

Results

A higher HIS level was associated with a higher odds of dementia (odds ratio = 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41 to 1.90, P < .001). Dementia discrimination of the HIS model was not different from the APOE ɛ4 model (area under the curve difference = 0.002, 95% CI: −0.024 to 0.029, P = .857). The calibration of the HIS model was 13.7 (P = .091) and of the APOE ɛ4 model was 13.3 (P = .100).

Discussion

HIS may be used as a simple, inexpensive test to identify older adults at risk of developing dementia.
Molecularly imprinted smart cryogels for selective nickel recognition in aqueous solutions
Authors: Andaç Müge , Tamahkar Emel , Denizli Adil
Published: July 2020

Smart polymers with fast response to slight changes show high practicability in separation and removal applications, such as water and wastewater treatment. Molecular imprinted polymers (MIPs) are designed to possess specific binding sites enabling the recognition of the target analytes. In this article, the newly synthesized smart adsorbents were used for the selective removal of nickel [Ni(II)] ions from aqueous solutions, which have dual (pH and temperature) memory for the recognition of Ni(II) ions due to the self‐assembled recognition sites in MIP structure. The Ni(II)‐MIP smart cryogels were prepared by cryopolymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAm) and N‐methacryloyl‐l‐histidine (MAH) monomers to incorporate their smart features for removal of Ni(II) ions in a selective and temperature‐modulated way. The maximum binding capacity of Ni(II) ions onto MIP smart cryogel was determined at pH 6 as 414 μg g−1 at 20°C and only 104.5 μg g−1 at 40°C, respectively. The adsorption reached an equilibrium within 30 min, while 85% of the bound amount of Ni(II) ions was achieved in only 15 min. This unique MIP cryogel as a smart and selective adsorbent was able to remove Ni(II) ions immediately by a significant temperature and pH change as an alternative application for water and wastewater treatment.
Observing Interprofessional Collaboration: Impact on Attitude and Knowledge Acquisition
Authors: Grosser Johannes , Bientzle Martina , Shiozawa Thomas , Hirt Bernhard , Kimmerle Joachim
Published: July 2020

Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) in the medical field is an important factor for good clinical outcomes and should be taught as early as in undergraduate medical education. Since implementing IPC training is an organizational challenge, students are often limited in their opportunities to experience real‐life IPC. Therefore, an approach where students observe successful IPC activities of role models in an applied anatomical format was proposed. It was studied whether observing IPC activities in undergraduate anatomical education has an impact on both students' attitude toward IPC and on knowledge acquisition. Further, it was examined whether the attitudes and knowledge of students from different medical disciplines were influenced in different ways. Therefore, 75 medical students and thirty‐eight physiotherapy students participated in a study with the task of observing a live broadcast of an interprofessional teaching session. Participants were asked about their attitudes toward interprofessional learning, their evaluation of professional responsibilities, and their profession‐specific knowledge before and after observing the IPC session. The participants' attitude toward interprofessional learning improved for both groups of students. Moreover, students of physiotherapy adjusted their evaluation of their own and others' professional responsibilities after observing IPC. In both student groups, knowledge increased, in particular, with respect to the field of knowledge in other professions. So, observing IPC can modify students' attitudes and support knowledge acquisition. The implementation of IPC observations provides students from various healthcare disciplines with a clearer impression of professionals' responsibilities and gives learners the opportunity to acquire knowledge from healthcare fields unfamiliar to them.
Analysis of proportional data in reproductive and developmental toxicity studies: Comparison of sensitivities of logit transformation, arcsine square root transformation, and nonparametric analysis
Authors: Feder Paul I. , Aume Laura L. , Triplett Cheryl A. , Simmons Jane Ellen , Narotsky Michael G.
Published: July 2020

Background

In developmental and reproductive toxicity studies, analysis of litter‐based binary endpoints (e.g., incidence of malformed fetuses) is complex in that littermates often are not entirely independent of one another. It is well established that the litter, not the individual fetus, is the proper independent experimental unit in statistical analysis. Accordingly, analysis is often based on the proportion affected per litter and the litter proportions are analyzed as continuous data. Because these proportional data generally do not meet assumptions of symmetry or normality, data are typically analyzed by nonparametric methods, arcsine square root transformation, or logit transformation.

Methods

We conducted power calculations to compare different approaches (nonparametric, arcsine square root‐transformed, logit‐transformed, untransformed) for analyzing litter‐based proportional data. A reproductive toxicity study with a control and one treated group provided data for two endpoints: prenatal loss, and fertility by in utero insemination (IUI). Type 1 error and power were estimated by 10,000 simulations based on two‐sample one‐tailed t tests with varying numbers of litters per group. To further compare the different approaches, we conducted additional analyses with shifted mean proportions to produce illustrative scenarios.

Results

Analyses based on logit‐transformed proportions had greater power than those based on untransformed or arcsine square root‐transformed proportions, or nonparametric procedures.

Conclusion

The logit transformation is preferred to the other approaches considered when making inferences concerning litter‐based proportional endpoints, particularly with skewed distributions. The improved performance of the logit transformation becomes increasingly pronounced as the response proportions are increasingly close to the boundaries of the parameter space.
Synaptic Pruning in Schizophrenia: Does Minocycline Modulate Psychosocial Brain Development?
Authors: Jones Michael C. , Koh Jin Ming , Cheong Kang Hao
Published: July 2020

Recent studies suggest that the tetracycline antibiotic minocycline, or its cousins, hold therapeutic potential for affective and psychotic disorders. This is proposed on the basis of a direct effect on microglia‐mediated frontocortical synaptic pruning (FSP) during adolescence, perhaps in genetically susceptible individuals harboring risk alleles in the complement component cascade that is involved in this normal process of CNS circuit refinement. In reviewing this field, it is argued that minocycline is actually probing and modulating a deeply evolved and intricate system wherein psychosocial stimuli sculpt the circuitry of the “social brain” underlying adult behavior and personality. Furthermore, this system can generate psychiatric morbidity that is not dependent on genetic variation. This view has important ramifications for understanding “pathologies” of human social behavior and cognition as well as providing long‐sought potential mechanistic links between social experience and susceptibility to mental and physical disease.
Rational Engineering of a Multi‐Step Biocatalytic Cascade for the Conversion of Cyclohexane to Polycaprolactone Monomers in Pseudomonas taiwanensis
Authors: Schäfer Lisa , Bühler Katja , Karande Rohan , Bühler Bruno
Published: July 2020

The current industrial production of polymer building blocks such as ε‐caprolactone (ε‐CL) and 6‐hydroxyhexanoic acid (6HA) is a multi‐step process associated with critical environmental issues such as the generation of toxic waste and high energy consumption. Consequently, there is a demand for more eco‐efficient and sustainable production routes. This study deals with the generation of a platform organism that converts cyclohexane to such polymer building blocks without the formation of byproducts and under environmentally benign conditions. Based on kinetic and thermodynamic analyses of the individual enzymatic steps, a 4‐step enzymatic cascade in Pseudomonas taiwanensis VLB120 is rationally engineered via stepwise biocatalyst improvement on the genetic level. It is found that the intermediate product cyclohexanol severely inhibits the cascade which could be optimized by enhancing the expression level of downstream enzymes. The integration of a lactonase enables exclusive 6HA formation without side products. The resulting biocatalyst shows a high activity of 44.8 ± 0.2 U gCDW−1 and fully converts 5 mm cyclohexane to 6HA within 3 h. This platform organism can now serve as a basis for the development of greener production processes for polycaprolactone and related polymers.
MicroRNA‐345‐5p regulates depression by targeting suppressor of cytokine signaling 1
Authors: Liu Yulan , Yu Jun , Wang Xinrui , Dong Jicheng
Published: July 2020

Background/Aims

MicroRNA(miR)‐345‐5p plays a key role in various cellular functions. However, the function of miR‐345‐5p in resistant depression (TRD) is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role and mechanism of miR‐345‐5p in the treatment of resistance depression (TRD).

Methods

RT‐qPCR was used to detect the expression of miR‐345‐5p in BV‐2 microglia. CCK‐8 method and flow cytometry were used for cell viability and apoptosis of microglia. Target gene prediction and screening, and luciferase reporter assays were used to verify the downstream target gene of miR‐345‐5p. Western blot was used to analyze the protein expression of related proteins.

Results

miR‐345‐5p increased the cell viability of BV‐2 microglia and the expression level of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the conditioned medium of microglia treated with miR‐345‐5p reduced the cell viability of HT22 hippocampal cells and caused S‐phase arrest. The miR‐345‐5p‐treated microglia induced apoptosis by regulating the expression levels of Bax, Bcl‐2, pro‐caspase‐3, and cleaved caspase‐3. Furthermore, SOCS1 was a direct target of miR‐345‐5p, and overexpression of SOCS1 was able to reverse the proapoptotic effect of miR‐345‐5p on activation of microglia on hippocampal neurons.

Conclusion

miR‐345‐5p induced inflammatory damage in hippocampal neurons by activating microglia. MiR‐345‐5p may be an effective target for TRD therapy.
Real‐world outcomes of chemoradiotherapy for unresectable Stage III non‐small cell lung cancer: The SOLUTION study
Authors: Horinouchi Hidehito , Atagi Shinji , Oizumi Satoshi , Ohashi Kadoaki , Kato Tomohiro , Kozuki Toshiyuki , Seike Masahiro , Sone Takashi , Sobue Tomotaka , Tokito Takaaki , Harada Hideyuki , Maeda Tadashi , Mio Tadashi , Shirosaka Ikue , Hattori Kana , Shin Eisei , Murakami Haruyasu
Published: July 2020

There are limited real‐world data on the treatment practices, outcomes, and safety of chemoradiotherapy (CRT) alone in potential candidates for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) for unresectable non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we analyzed the safety and efficacy of CRT in patients who underwent CRT and would satisfy the key eligibility criteria for maintenance therapy with durvalumab (eg, no progression after CRT) in real‐world settings (m‐sub) for unresectable Stage III NSCLC between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2015 at 12 sites in Japan. The m‐sub comprised 214 patients with a median follow‐up of 31.6 months (range 1.9‐65.8 months). Median overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) from completing CRT were 36.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 28.1 months to not reached) and 9.5 months (95% CI 7.7‐11.7 months), respectively. Consolidation chemotherapy did not influence OS or PFS. Median PFS was 16.9 vs 9.1 months in patients with vs without epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, with PFS rates of ~20% at 3‐4 years. Pneumonitis was the most common adverse event (according to MedDRA version 21.0J), and about half of events were grade 1. Pneumonitis mostly occurred 10‐24 weeks after starting CRT, peaking at 18‐20 weeks. Esophagitis and dermatitis generally occurred from 0 to 4 weeks, peaking at 2‐4 weeks after starting CRT. Pericarditis was rare and occurred sporadically. In conclusion, the results of the m‐sub provide real‐world insight into the outcomes of CRT, and will be useful for future evaluations of ICI maintenance therapy after CRT.
An extraordinary rare presentation of liver hydatidosis with hydatid cyst scolices
Authors: Davakis Spyridon , Syllaios Athanasios , Kyros Eleandros , Garmpis Nikolaos , Charalabopoulos Alexandros
Published: July 2020

The extraordinary finding of scolices with the characteristic hooklets may be found during the microscopic analysis in patients with cystic echinococcosis.
Challenges in transfusion and the role of Thalidomide in E‐β‐Thalassemia—A case report
Authors: Javed Rizwan , Radhakrishnan Vivek , Basu Sabita , Chandy Mammen
Published: July 2020

Hemoglobin E‐β‐thalassemia is a common β‐thalassemia that has a variable presentation from mild to severe life‐threatening anemia. We describe such a case, who presented with severe anemia and multiple allo‐antibodies. Our case illustrates the role of thalidomide in transfusion‐sparing therapies in patients with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia and challenges in the blood bank.
N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide and short‐term mortality in acute aortic dissection: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Vrsalovic Mislav , Vrsalovic Presecki Ana , Aboyans Victor
Published: July 2020

Background

Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a life‐threatening medical emergency that requires immediate diagnosis and rapid treatment. There is a paucity of data on the role of biomarkers in risk stratification of patients with AAD.

Hypothesis

N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) is associated with short‐term mortality in AAD patients.

Methods

We systematically searched Medline and Scopus to identify all observational cohort studies published before January 2020 that compared outcome (short‐term mortality) in patients with AAD with high vs low levels of baseline NT‐proBNP combining terms “brain natriuretic peptide” and “aortic dissection.” A meta‐analysis was conducted using the generic inverse variance method. Heterogeneity between studies was investigated using the Cochrane's Q test and I2 statistic.

Results

Four studies were included in final analysis including a total of 950 patients, and 105 (11%) patients died. Baseline NT‐proBNP concentrations were significantly higher in nonsurvivors (median 2240 pg/mL, range 1678‐16 347 pg/mL) when compared to survivors (665 pg/mL, 328‐1252 pg/mL). Elevated NT‐proBNP values were significantly associated with an increased risk of short‐term mortality (odds ratio 4.13, 95% CI [confidence interval] 2.33‐7.33), with low heterogeneity (I2 = 8.77%, Cochran Q = 2.19, P = .33), and no publication bias. The pooled standardized mean difference between groups was 1.28 (95% CI 0.99‐1.56), with low heterogeneity (I2 = 38.73%, Cochran Q = 3.26, P = .19).

Conclusion

Elevated NT‐proBNP levels on admission are associated with an increased risk of short‐term mortality in AAD.
Long‐term effectiveness of one‐time endoscopic screening for esophageal cancer: A community‐based study in rural China
Authors: Zhang Nan , Li Yanyan , Chang Xuan , Lei Fuhua , Ma Hengmin , Liu Jinhui , Yang Jia , Su Mingzhu , Sun Xiaojie , Zhao Deli , Sun Qiang , Wei Wenqiang , Wang Guiqi , Wang Jialin
Published: July 2020

Background

Evidence is required to quantify the population‐level effects of endoscopic screening for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the long‐term effectiveness of 1‐time endoscopic ESCC screening in a Chinese rural population.

Methods

This community‐based cohort study was based on an existing esophageal cancer screening program in Feicheng City, China. The screening group consisted of all permanent residents aged 40 to 69 years in 17 villages who were screened during 2006 through 2009, and the control group consisted of residents in another 43 villages who were not yet covered by the screening program. Residents in the remaining 511 villages were defined as the total population control. The cumulative incidence and mortality of ESCC and the observed and expected numbers of ESCC cases and deaths during the follow‐up period (2010‐2018) were calculated and compared.

Results

After a 9‐year follow‐up, the screening group (n = 8460) revealed reductions of 20% (relative risk, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.66‐0.97) and 32% (relative risk, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.52‐0.89) in ESCC cumulative incidence and mortality, respectively, compared with the control group (n = 20,468). Endoscopic screening prevented 0.41% of the population (attributable risk, 0.41%; 95% CI, 0.07%‐0.75%) from ESCC occurrence and 0.38% (attributable risk, 0.38%; 95% CI, 0.14%‐0.62%) from ESCC‐related death. In the screening group, reductions of 43% (standardized incidence ratio, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.48‐0.67) and 45% (standardized mortality ratio, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.44‐0.69) were found in the observed cumulative cases and deaths, respectively, compared with the expected cases and deaths.

Conclusions

One‐time endoscopic screening was associated with a significant and consistent reduction in ESCC incidence and mortality among individuals aged 40 to 69 years in high‐risk areas.
Space‐Time Localisation for the Dynamic Model
Authors: Moinat Augustin , Weber Hendrik
Published: July 2020

We prove an a priori bound for solutions of the dynamic equation. This bound provides a control on solutions on a compact space‐time set only in terms of the realisation of the noise on an enlargement of this set, and it does not depend on any choice of space‐time boundary conditions.

We treat the large‐ and small‐scale behaviour of solutions with completely different arguments. For small scales we use bounds akin to those presented in Hairer's theory of regularity structures. We stress immediately that our proof is fully self‐contained, but we give a detailed explanation of how our arguments relate to Hairer's. For large scales we use a PDE argument based on the maximum principle. Both regimes are connected by a solution‐dependent regularisation procedure.

The fact that our bounds do not depend on space‐time boundary conditions makes them useful for the analysis of large‐scale properties of solutions. They can, for example, be used in a compactness argument to construct solutions on the full space and their invariant measures. © 2020 The Authors. Communications on Pure and Applied Mathematics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC
The color stability and wear resistance of provisional implant restorations: A prospective clinical study
Authors: Alevizakos Vasilios , Mitov Gergo , Teichert Franziska , von See Constantin
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The aim of the present clinical study was to determine the stability of color and resistance against abrasion and attrition of provisional single implant restorations.

Material and Methods

A group of 16 patients were treated with provisional crowns made of Telio CAD. Shortly before the insertion the crowns were photographed and scanned using a 3D‐laser scanner. After 8 weeks of clinical usage, the crowns were photographed and scanned again. The vertical occlusal wear and color changes between the restorations were measured.

Results

The occlusal plane of the original crown showed a statistically significant reduction of 0.052 mm ± 0.037 mm 8 weeks after placement (p < .05). For the stability of color, a change in red, green and blue was described. All three scopes (red, green and blue) showed a statistically significant reduction (p < .05).

Conclusions

This prospective clinical study showed that Telio CAD experienced a significant occlusal reduction and color change after an intraoral placement of 8 weeks.
Designing therapeutic strategies to combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 disease: COVID‐19
Authors: Rohilla Suman
Published: July 2020

A highly contagious coronavirus disease COVID‐19 caused by a recently identified severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) initially detected in Wuhan, China has spread worldwide and become a major health crisis in the absence of specific vaccine or antiviral drugs. SARS‐CoV‐2 infection has resulted in overwhelming number of reported deaths. Unfortunately it is still spreading uncontrollably despite implementing stringent protective measures. Rapid development of effective therapeutic strategies for treatment and prevention of infection is crucially required. Although genomic characterization has assisted in unfolding various aspects of SARS‐CoV‐2 but development of specific antiviral drugs and vaccine against COVID‐19 is still a worldwide challenge. Understanding the disease pathological course underlying the clinical manifestations of COVID‐19 is imperative to identify the vital targets for drug development. SARS‐CoV‐2 uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor to enter the host cell and primarily target type II alveolar cells. COVID‐19 disease progression is associated with distressed immune functions and hyper active inflammatory system leading to development of cytokine storm which is a vital factor involved in disease advancement. The current review elucidates the disease pathology and summarizes the possible therapeutic options to battle against COVID‐19 on the basis of current state of understanding about SARS‐CoV‐2 pathogenic pathways and knowledge gained from previous SARS and MERS‐CoV epidemics. Therapeutic strategies to treat and prevent infection as well as to suppress the disease progression to reduce severity and mortality rate is discussed. Drug candidates currently under consideration and undergoing clinical trials for COVID‐19 treatment are highlighted.
Therapist‐guided smartphone‐based aftercare for inpatients with severe anorexia nervosa (SMART‐AN): Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Schlegl Sandra , Neumayr Christina , Voderholzer Ulrich
Published: July 2020

Objective

Inpatient treatment for patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) is recommended in extreme or severe cases after failure of outpatient treatment and is highly effective. However, a number of patients show symptom increase and relapse after discharge. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a therapist‐guided smartphone‐based aftercare intervention for inpatients with AN to support symptom stabilization.

Method

A total of 186 female patients with a DSM‐5 diagnosis of AN (307.1) will be randomized either to receive a 16‐week smartphone‐based aftercare intervention with therapist feedback as add‐on to treatment as usual (TAU) or TAU alone. Data will be assessed at discharge (= baseline, T0), after 16 weeks (= end of the aftercare intervention, T1) and after 10 months (= 6‐month follow‐up, T2). Primary outcome will be overall eating disorder symptomatology (Eating Disorder Examination Global score). Secondary outcome measures will include body mass index, depression, motivation to change, self‐efficacy, patient satisfaction with and adherence to the smartphone‐based aftercare intervention as well as rehospitalization rate.

Discussion

This study will be the first randomized controlled trial to examine a therapist‐guided smartphone‐based aftercare intervention for inpatients with AN. Results may reveal whether and to which extent this novel intervention can support symptom stabilization after inpatient treatment.
Pelvic floor muscle training for women with lumbopelvic pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Vesentini Giovana , Prior Joanna , Ferreira Paulo H. , Hodges Paul W. , Rudge Marilza , Ferreira Manuela L.
Published: July 2020

Background and Objective

It has been suggested that pelvic floor dysfunction may contribute to the development of lumbopelvic pain as a result of changes in trunk muscle control. However, there is limited evidence that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) can improve clinical outcomes in women with lumbopelvic pain.

Databases and Data Treatment

Six databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effectiveness of PFMT to other conservative interventions (usual physiotherapy care or minimal intervention), no treatment or placebo interventions on pain and disability in women with lumbopelvic pain.

Results

We included eight RCTs totalling 469 participants. PFMT was more effective than minimal intervention for lumbopelvic pain [mean difference (MD) 15.9/100 (95% confidential interval (CI), 8.2 to 23.6; p = 0.00; I2 = 3.92%)] and disability [standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.5 (95% CI 0.1–0.9; p = 0.00; I2 = 0%)] during pregnancy. PFMT was more effective than usual physiotherapy care for pain (MD 11.7/100 [95% CI 7.5–15.9; p = 0.00; I2 = 94.14%]) and disability (SMD 0.3 (95% CI 0.0–0.6; p = 0.01; I2 = 82.54%]) in non‐pregnant women. Effect sizes were in general of arguable clinical relevance.

Conclusions

Overall, the certainty of the evidence was very low to low. There is no conclusive evidence that the addition of PFMT to usual physiotherapy care or minimal intervention is superior to minimal intervention and usual care alone given the small number of studies and high levels of heterogeneity of included studies. Further well‐designed trials are needed to establish the effectiveness of PFMT for lumbopelvic pain in women.
Conduction velocity of the cold spinal pathway in healthy humans
Authors: Leone Caterina , Di Lionardo Andrea , Diotallevi Giulia , Mollica Cristina , Di Pietro Giuseppe , Di Stefano Giulia , La Cesa Silvia , Cruccu Giorgio , Truini Andrea
Published: July 2020

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the conduction velocity of the cold spinal pathway in healthy humans.

Methods

Using a cold stimulator consisting of micro‐Peltier elements that was able to produce steep cooling ramps up to −300°C/s, we recorded cold‐evoked potentials after stimulation of the dorsal midline at C5, T2, T6 and T10 vertebral levels and calculated the conduction velocity of the cold spinal pathway. In all participants, we used laser stimulation to deliver painful heat (Aδ‐fibres–mediated) and warm (C‐fibres–mediated) stimuli to the same sites in order to compare the conduction velocity of the cold spinal pathway with that of the nociceptive and warm spinal pathways.

Results

Cold stimulation evoked large‐amplitude vertex potentials from all stimulation sites. The mean conduction velocity of the cold spinal pathway was 12.0 m/s, which did not differ from that of the nociceptive spinal pathway (10.5 m/s). The mean conduction velocity of the warm spinal pathway was 2.0 m/s.

Discussion

This study provides previously unreported findings regarding cold spinal pathway conduction velocity in humans that may be useful in the assessment of spinal cord lesions as well as in intraoperative monitoring during spinal surgery.

Significance

This neurophysiological study provides previously unreported findings on cold spinal pathway conduction velocity in healthy humans. Cold‐evoked potentials may represent an alternative to laser‐evoked potential recording, useful to assess spinothalamic tract in patients with spinal cord lesions and monitor patients during spinal surgery.
Creating the Ideal Push‐Pull System for Electrocatalysis: A Comparative Study on Symmetrical and Asymmetrical Cardanol‐based Cobalt Phthalocyanines
Authors: Nkhahle Reitumetse , Nyokong Tebello
Published: July 2020

A symmetrical cardanol‐based cobalt phthalocyanine (Pc) along with its asymmetrical acid‐based derivatives were synthesized and applied in the electrocatalysis of hydrazine. Despite the inhibition of electron movement by the bulky cardanol‐based substituent throughout the series of molecules, an ideal combination of substituents was established in GCE‐3 (2,9,16‐tris(3‐pentadecylphenoxy)‐23‐mono propionic acid phthalocyanato cobalt (II)) where a limit of detection (LoD) value of 5.10 μM (signal to noise ratio=5) was recorded for the detection of hydrazine. The results obtained serve as an illustration that the combination of electron‐donating and electron‐withdrawing substituents has a significant influence on the complete functioning of the phthalocyanine molecule(s) being investigated.
Finite element analysis of an actively controlled heavy rotor using a PVDF piezoelectric layer as a sensor and actuator
Authors: Kumar Tarun , Kumar Rajeev , Jain Satish C.
Published: July 2020

Reduction in the torsional vibration of heavy rotors (eg, turbo‐generator rotors) is important for the safe and efficient functioning of the power plant. In this paper, a theoretical study is performed to control the torsional vibration of a turbo‐generator rotor using a piezoelectric material, namely a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) layer, as a sensor and actuator. Proportional and velocity feedback is used as a control law. The variation in the electromagnetic torque of the synchronous generator during various electrical faults is evaluated using a dq0 model. The finite element (FE) method is used to model the rotor elements. The coupled equations are solved in MATLAB using the Newmark‐beta integration method. The coupling elements of the turbine and generator are most susceptible to shear failure. Hence, the torsional vibration of the coupled rotor on coupling elements is compared for the controlled and uncontrolled scenarios. The simulation results show that, for an actively controlled rotor, a significant reduction in the amplitude of the torsional vibrations is observed.
Porosity problems: Comparing and reviewing methods for estimating porosity and volume of wood jams in the field
Authors: Livers Bridget , Lininger Katherine B. , Kramer Natalie , Sendrowski Alicia
Published: July 2020

Porosity, or void space, of large wood jams in stream systems has implications for estimating wood volumes and carbon storage, the impacts of jams on geomorphic and ecological processes, and instream habitat. Estimating porosity and jam dimensions (i.e. jam volume) in the field is a common method of measuring wood volume in jams. However, very few studies explicitly address the porosity values in jams, how porosity is calculated and assessed for accuracy, and the effect such estimates have on carbon and wood budgets in river corridors. We compare methods to estimate jam porosity and wood volume using field data from four different depositional environments in North America (jam types include small in‐channel jams, large channel‐margin jams, a large island apex jam, and a large coastal jam), and compare the results with previous studies. We find that visual estimates remain the most time‐efficient method for porosity estimation in the field, although they appear to underpredict back‐calculated porosity values; the accuracy of jam porosity, and thus wood volume, estimates are difficult to definitively measure. We also find that porosity appears to be scale invariant, dictated mostly by jam type, (which is influenced by depositional processes), rather than the size of the jam. Wood piece sorting and structural organization are likely the most influential properties on jam porosity, and these factors vary according to depositional environment. We provide a framework and conceptual model that uses these factors to demonstrate how modeled jam porosity values differ and give recommendations as a catalyst for future work on porosity of wood jams. We conclude that jam type and size and/or the study goals may dictate which porosity method is the most appropriate, and we call for greater transparency and reporting of porosity methods in future studies. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rediscovery of Siphocampylus viscidus (Campanulaceae): additional notes on a rare and endangered species from the Atlantic Forest of Brazil
Authors: de Mello Rollim Isis , de Oliveira Marcelo Trovó Lopes
Published: July 2020

We report the rediscovery of Siphocampylus viscidus, 120 years after its first collection, including an updated morphological description, illustrations, distribution map, and notes on nomenclature, conservation, ecology, and taxonomic affinities. The species is endemic to Rio de Janeiro state, growing in small populations in forest understories and roadsides. Until now, only a single population of S. viscidus is known, close to the type locality indicated. The species presents morphological affinities with S. humilis, being distinguished mainly by its fistulous stem and its serrated leaf margin with unequal teeth. Details on the type specimens are also provided.
Evaluating active investing with generic trading reactions
Authors: Zoicas‐Ienciu Adrian
Published: July 2020

We evaluate the performance of rules using past information to generate daily trading signals. Assuming generic trading reactions to buy and sell signals, we derive an analytic excess return that isolates commissions, interests, the impact of trading timing, and that of the benchmark's choice. The result is useful in dealing with data snooping through leverage and benchmark tweaking. We illustrate the empirical implications by examining trend‐following performance across Dow Jones Industrial Average (1927–2016) and an international sample of major equity indexes and blue‐chip stocks (1980–2016). The results show substantial, fading, non‐persistent and highly methodology‐sensitive excess returns.
Role of crosstalk between STAT3 and mTOR signaling in driving sensitivity to chemotherapy in osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: Wang Yi‐tian , Tang Fan , Hu Xin , Zheng Chuan‐xi , Gong Tao‐jun , Zhou Yong , Luo Yi , Min Li
Published: July 2020

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignant bone neoplasm, mostly occurring in pediatric patients. OS is characterized by a highly aggressive and metastatically active tumor. Chemotherapy followed by surgical excision is the treatment of choice but is often associated with both chemoresistance and relapse. Hence, it is important to develop further understanding of OS pathogenesis and identify potential therapeutic targets. Both the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) have been implicated in OS pathogenesis. Crosstalk between mTOR and STAT3 signaling has been shown to regulate hypoxia‐induced angiogenesis in other diseases. In this study, we determined using OS cell lines if there is a crosstalk between these two pathways and how that impacts sensitivity to treatment with Rapamycin. OS cell lines exhibited differential sensitivity to mTOR inhibitor Rapamycin. Evaluation of phosphorylated STAT3 showed that in Rapamycin‐sensitive 143B cells, the inhibitor decreased phosphorylation of STAT3 at Y705, but not at S727 whereas, in Rapamycin‐resistant U2OS cells, the inhibitor decreased S727 phosphorylation but not Y705. However, knockdown of STAT3 in U2OS cells made them sensitive to Rapamycin. Immunofluorescence (IF) analysis showed that mTOR is constitutively activated in the 143B cells but is suppressed in the U2OS cells, indicating that this might be their reason for being resistant to Rapamycin. Both cell lines were sensitive to treatment with the STAT3 inhibitor Napabucasin (NP). Treatment with NP inhibited STAT3 activation at Y705 and additionally inhibited mTOR activation, indicating crosstalk between STAT3 and mTOR signaling pathways. Rapamycin could effectively prevent lung metastasis in an orthotropic OS mice model using 143B cells. However, Rapamycin could not inhibit lung metastasis in mice injected with U2OS cells. The STAT3 inhibitor NP attenuated lung metastasis with the U2OS cells. Our results thus established yet undefined crosstalk of STAT3 and mTOR signaling pathways in OS and highlight the possibility of using mTOR inhibitors for treatment in patients with OS.
Test–Retest Reliability and Correlates of Vertebral Bone Marrow Lipid Composition by Lipidomics Among Children With Varying Degrees of Bone Fragility
Authors: Whitney Daniel G , Devlin Maureen J , Alford Andrea I , Modlesky Christopher M , Peterson Mark D , Li Ying , Caird Michelle S
Published: July 2020

The reliability of lipidomics, an approach to identify the presence and interactions of lipids, to analyze the bone marrow lipid composition among pediatric populations with bone fragility is unknown. The objective of this study was to assess the test–retest reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), and the minimal detectable change (MDC) of vertebral bone marrow lipid composition determined by targeted lipidomics among children with varying degrees of bone fragility undergoing routine orthopedic surgery. Children aged 10 to 19 years, with a confirmed diagnosis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (n = 13) or neuromuscular scoliosis and cerebral palsy (n = 3), undergoing posterior spinal fusion surgery at our institution were included in this study. Transpedicular vertebral body bone marrow samples were taken from thoracic vertebrae (T11, 12) or lumbar vertebrae (L1 to L4). Lipid composition was assessed via targeted lipidomics and all samples were analyzed in the same batch. Lipid composition measures were examined as the saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated index and as individual fatty acids. Relative and absolute test–retest reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), SEM, and MDC. Associations between demographics and index measures were explored. The ICC, SEM, and MDC were 0.81 (95% CI, 0.55–0.93), 1.6%, and 4.3%, respectively, for the saturated index, 0.66 (95% CI, 0.25–0.87), 3.5%, and 9.7%, respectively, for the monounsaturated index, and 0.60 (95% CI, 0.17–0.84), 3.6%, and 9.9%, respectively, for the polyunsaturated index. For the individual fatty acids, the ICC showed a considerable range from 0.04 (22:2n‐6) to 0.97 (18:3n‐3). Age was positively correlated with the saturated index (r2 = 0.36; p = 0.014) and negatively correlated with the polyunsaturated index (r2 = 0.26; p = 0.043); there was no difference in index measures by sex (p > 0.58). The test–retest reliability was moderate‐to‐good for index measures and poor to excellent for individual fatty acids; this information can be used to power research studies and identify measures for clinical or research monitoring. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A theoretical study on the alkali metal carboxylate‐promoted L‐Lactide polymerization
Authors: Ozen Cihan , Satoh Toshifumi , Maeda Satoshi
Published: July 2020

Sodium acetate‐catalyzed L‐lactide polymerization reaction is a simple yet efficient reaction. It provides a robust system to produce poly(L‐lactide) in industrial scale. In this study, the mechanism of this reaction has been studied by means of computational chemistry tools based on the experimental results. Basically, the mechanism consists of two steps: lactide coordination and ring opening through O‐Acyl bond cleavage. Additionally, the effect of cation size and substituent on carboxylate moiety have been evaluated. The calculations indicate that the larger cation leads to faster reactions. Moreover, the stronger electron‐donating group on carboxylate moiety accelerates the reaction rates. To obtain further insights, an orbital analysis has been also carried out. Our calculations are consistent with experimental findings and clarify underlying mechanistic features of the present reaction.
Comparison of dentin penetration ability of different root canal sealers used with different obturation methods
Authors: Turkyilmaz Ali , Erdemir Ali
Published: July 2020

This in vitro study aimed to investigate the tubular penetration depth of four different sealers used with two different obturation methods in the apical, middle, and coronal root canal dentin. Eighty‐four single‐rooted teeth were instrumented until the F4 ProTaper universal rotary file and filled with AH26, AH Plus (Dentsply, DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany), RealSeal (SybronEndo, Orange, CA), and MTA Fillapex (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) using cold lateral condensation (CLC) and single‐cone (SC) obturation techniques. Thereafter, the roots were sectioned longitudinal and prepared for scanning electron microscope evaluation. The maximum and minimum sealers penetration depth into dentinal tubules at the apical, middle, and coronal regions and the average depth of sealer penetration were calculated. The data was statistically analyzed two‐way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey and Dunnett tests and independent samples t test using maximum mean values. There was no statistically difference between the obturation methods (p > .05). When the sealers are evaluated within themselves AH26 was affected by obturation methods significantly (p < .05). Also the results revealed a significant difference between root regions (p < .05). AH26 and RealSeal root canal sealers had the highest penetration values with CLC and SC obturation techniques, respectively. The obturation method did not affect the penetration amount of root canal sealers. RealSeal root canal sealer performed better penetration ability than the other sealers. Apical third of the root in all groups showed lowest penetration depth.