bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initial experiences with a novel biodegradable device for percutaneous closure of atrial septal defects: From preclinical study to first‐in‐human experience
Authors: Li Yi‐Fan , Xie Yu‐Mei , Chen Jun , Li Bo‐Ning , Xie Zhao‐Feng , Wang Shu‐Shui , Zhang Zhi‐Wei
Published: November 2019

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of a novel, absorbable atrial septal defect (ASD) closure device made of poly‐l‐lactic acid (PLLA) in a swine model of ASD and for the first time in humans.

Methods

A preclinical safety study was conducted using a swine model of ASD. In a clinical setting, five pediatric patients underwent ASD closure with the PLLA device with fluoroscopic and transthoracic echocardiography guidance. The procedural results and clinical outcomes at 1 day, 30 days, 3 months, and 6 months after closure were analyzed.

Results

The 24‐ and 36‐month follow‐up results of the preclinical study demonstrated that the PLLA device exhibited good endothelialization and degradability in the swine model. In the clinical study, successful device implantation was achieved in all five patients (median age, 3.6 years; range, 3.1–6.5 years). The mean defect size was (13.6 ± 2.7) mm. Follow‐up at 30 days, 3 months, and 6 months was completed in all five cases. The complete defect closure rates with no residual shunt at 30 days, 3 months, and 6 months follow‐up were 60% (3/5), 80% (4/5), and 80% (4/5), respectively. No device dislodgement, significant aortic valve or mitral valve regurgitation, new onset cardiac arrhythmia, or other adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

The study results demonstrated that it is feasible to implant the PLLA device for closure of small to medium sized ASDs without significant residual shunts or severe adverse events in humans. The PLLA device exhibited good endothelialization and degradability in the swine model at 24 and 36 months. Further studies to evaluate long‐term safety and effectiveness with the device in a large cohort of patients are warranted.
Knot my problem: Overcoming transradial catheter complications
Authors: Walker Melanie , Levitt Michael R. , Ghodke Basavaraj V.
Published: November 2019

Not all complications from transradial access can be prevented, even with diligent patient selection and preprocedure planning. This brief visual report offers technical suggestions to reverse knots and kinks encountered during catheter manipulation for endovascular transradial cerebral procedures.
Effect of Gold Particles Size over Au/C Catalyst Selectivity in HMF Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Megías‐Sayago Cristina , Lolli Alice , Bonincontro Danilo , Penkova Anna , Albonetti Stefania , Cavani Fabrizio , Odriozola José Antonio , Ivanova Svetlana
Published: November 2019

A series of gold nanoparticles in the 4–40 nm range were prepared, immobilized on activated carbon and further tested, at low base concentration, in the catalytic oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). Gold particles size variation has no influence on HMF conversion but significantly affects product selectivity and carbon balance. This behavior is ascribed to the thermodynamically favorable oxygen reduction reaction on Au(100) faces. As the gold particle size decreases the Au(100)/Au(111) exposure ratio, estimated by using the van Hardeveld‐Hartog model, increases as well as the FDCA selectivity. The smaller the gold particle size the smaller the 5‐hydroxymethyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (HMFCA) to FDCA ratio pointing to the gold size dependent behavior of the oxidation of the alcohol function of the HMF molecule.
Transient in‐situ DRIFTS Investigation of Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene over α‐, γ‐ and β‐MnO2
Authors: Fan Jie , Ren Quanming , Mo Shengpeng , Sun Yuhang , Fu Mingli , Wu Junliang , Chen Limin , Chen Peirong , Ye Daiqi
Published: November 2019

Manganese oxides with different crystal phases (i. e. α‐MnO2, γ‐MnO2 and β‐MnO2) were synthesized for catalytic oxidation of toluene. The catalytic activity was strongly influenced by the crystal phases of MnO2. α‐MnO2 exhibited the highest catalytic activity with a 50 % toluene conversion (T50) at 229 °C and a 90 % toluene conversion (T90) at 238 °C, followed by γ‐MnO2 (T90=252 °C) and β‐MnO2 (T90=278 °C). The remarkable catalytic activity of α‐MnO2 was attributed to its superior redox property and lattice oxygen mobility. Different intermediates were detected on the surfaces of α‐, γ‐ and β‐MnO2 by in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (in‐situ DRIFTS). Benzoate species were found to be the key intermediates on α‐MnO2 at 240 °C, while benzoyl oxide species and benzoate were the major intermediates on γ‐MnO2 at 260 °C. The surface of β‐MnO2 was mainly covered by carbonate and benzoate species after the adsorption of toluene at 280 °C.
Spectroscopic study of porphyrin self‐assembly: Role of pH, time, and chiral template
Authors: Thorpe Stephanie L. , Snyder Gabrielle N. , Mammana Angela
Published: November 2019

In this study, we performed an ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐Vis) and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopic analysis of the binary and ternary supramolecular structures formed by self‐assembling the following three water‐soluble porphyrins with and without a chiral template: the negatively charged, meso‐Tetra(4‐sulfonatophenyl) porphine (H2TPPS4−); the positively charged meso‐trans‐(di(N‐methyl‐4‐pyridyl)diphenyl) porphine (trans‐DmPyDPP) and meso‐cis‐(di(N‐methyl‐4‐pyridyl)diphenyl) porphine (cis‐DmPyDPP). Polyglutamic acid (both L and D enantiomers) was selected as the chiral template due to its ability to change secondary structure with pH. The propensity for the porphyrins to show an induced CD in the presence of polyglutamic acid is demonstrated. The induced chirality of all supramolecular structures was found to depend on the pH of the solution, the chirality of the polymer, and the order of addition of the positively and negatively charged porphyrins (for ternary complexes). Of particular interest is that the interaction of H2TPPS4− with the chiral scaffold seems to undergo a dynamic rearrangement of the supramolecular structure as evident from the change in the CD spectrum over time. Moreover, experiments with ternary complexes suggest that the preferential interaction of trans‐DmPyDPP with the random coil of the polymer shows promise as a sensor of protein secondary structure.
A Novel Class of N‐Sulfonyl and N‐Sulfamoyl Noscapine Derivatives that Promote Mitotic Arrest in Cancer Cells
Authors: Yong Cassandra , Devine Shane M. , Gao Xuexin , Yan Angelina , Callaghan Richard , Capuano Ben , Scammells Peter J.
Published: November 2019

Noscapine displays weak anticancer efficacy and numerous research efforts have attempted to generate more potent noscapine analogues. These modifications included the replacement of the N‐methyl group in the 6′‐position with a range of substituents, where N‐ethylcarbamoyl substitution was observed to possess enhanced anticancer activity. Herein, we describe advances in this area, namely the synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of a series of N‐sulfonyl and N‐sulfamoyl noscapine derivatives. A number of these sulfonyl‐containing noscapinoids demonstrated improved activities compared to noscapine. ((R)‐5‐((S)‐4,5‐Dimethoxy‐1,3‐dihydroisobenzofuran‐1‐yl)‐4‐methoxy‐6‐((1‐methyl‐1H‐imidazol‐4‐yl)sulfonyl)‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro[1,3]dioxolo[4,5‐g]isoquinoline) (14 q) displayed sub‐micromolar activities of 560, 980, 271 and 443 nM against MCF‐7, PANC‐1, MDA‐MB‐435 and SK‐MEL‐5 cells, respectively. This antiproliferative effect was also maintained against drug‐resistant NCI/AdrRES cells despite high expression of the multidrug efflux pump, P‐glycoprotein.
The economic research of arsenic trioxide for the treatment of newly diagnosed acute promyelocytic leukemia in China
Authors: Chen Xichuang , Hong Yuan , Zheng Panpan , You Xiaohong , Feng Jinhua , Huang Zhihu , Wang Yan
Published: November 2019

Background

The objective of this study was to conduct the first systematic evaluation of the long‐term economic impact of arsenic trioxide (ATO) plus all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) for the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) from the perspective of the Chinese health care system.

Methods

On the basis of clinical data from a randomized phase 3 trial, a time‐dependent Markov model with 4 health states (complete remission, relapse or treatment failure, post‐treatment failure, and death) was used to evaluate the incremental costs per quality‐adjusted life‐year (QALY) gained from the ATO plus ATRA regimen compared with the ATRA plus chemotherapy (CT) regimen over a 30‐year period. All costs were adjusted to 2018 levels based on the Chinese Consumer Price Index. Both costs and health outcomes were discounted by 3% annually. One‐way sensitivity analysis and probability sensitivity analysis were performed.

Results

Compared with the ATRA plus CT strategy, the ATO plus ATRA strategy was associated with 1.38 additional QALYs gained and $392.05 (estimated in 2018 US dollars) in incremental costs per patient over 30 years. Consequently, the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was $284.02 per QALY gained, which was far below the Chinese willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $29,306 per QALY gained. Sensitivity analyses demonstrated the robustness of these results.

Conclusions

From the perspective of the Chinese health care system, the ATO plus ATRA strategy is cost‐effective for patients with newly diagnosed APL compared with the ATRA plus CT strategy. Therefore, the authors strongly suggest that China's health authorities choose the former strategy for these patients, whether for the elderly or for young people.
Postdiagnosis sedentary behavior and health outcomes in cancer survivors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Swain Christopher T. V. , Nguyen Nga H. , Eagles Tobyn , Vallance Jeff K. , Boyle Terry , Lahart Ian M. , Lynch Brigid M.
Published: November 2019

Background

High levels of sedentary behavior may negatively affect health outcomes in cancer survivors. A systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed to clarify whether postdiagnosis sedentary behavior is related to survival, patient‐reported outcomes, and anthropometric outcomes in cancer survivors.

Methods

The Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL (The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and SPORTDiscus databases were searched from study inception to June 2019. Studies of adults who had been diagnosed with cancer that examined the association between sedentary behavior and mortality, patient‐reported outcomes (eg, fatigue, depression), or anthropometric outcomes (eg, body mass index, waist circumference) were eligible for inclusion. Meta‐analyses were performed to estimate hazard ratios for the highest compared with the lowest levels of sedentary behavior for all‐cause and colorectal cancer‐specific mortality outcomes. The ROBINS‐E (Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies‐of Exposures tool) and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) system were used to assess the risk of bias and the strength of evidence, respectively.

Results

Thirty‐three eligible publications from a total of 3569 identified articles were included in the review. A higher level of postdiagnosis sedentary behavior was associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.06‐1.41; heterogeneity [I2 statistic], 33.8%) as well as colorectal cancer‐specific mortality (hazard ratio, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.14‐2.06; I2, 0%). No clear or consistent associations between sedentary behavior and patient‐reported or anthropometric outcomes were identified. The risk of bias in individual studies ranged from moderate to serious, and the strength of evidence ranged from very low to low.

Conclusions

Although avoiding high levels of sedentary behavior after a cancer diagnosis may improve survival, further research is required to help clarify whether the association is causal.
Human epididymis protein 4 antigen‐autoantibody complexes complement cancer antigen 125 for detecting early‐stage ovarian cancer
Authors: Yang Wei‐Lei , Lu Zhen , Guo Jing , Fellman Bryan M. , Ning Jing , Lu Karen H. , Menon Usha , Kobayashi Makoto , Hanash Samir M. , Celestino Joseph , Skates Steven J. , Bast Robert C.
Published: November 2019

Background

Early detection of ovarian cancer could significantly improve patient outcomes. Cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) is elevated in sera from approximately 60% of patients with early‐stage (I/II) disease. Sensitivity might be improved through the combination of CA 125 with other biomarkers. Among potential biomarkers, antigen‐autoantibody (Ag‐AAb) complexes have received relatively little attention.

Methods

Luminex‐based immunoassays were used to measure human epididymis protein 4 (HE4), anti‐HE4 autoantibody, and HE4 Ag‐AAb complexes in sera from patients with early‐ (n = 73) and late‐stage ovarian cancers (n = 49) at the time of diagnosis and from asymptomatic women with (n = 15) or without ovarian cancer (n = 212) enrolled in the Normal Risk Ovarian Cancer Screening Study.

Results

At 98% specificity for healthy, asymptomatic women, 7% of patients with early‐stage (I/II) ovarian cancer and 4% of patients with late‐stage (III/IV) disease had elevated levels of HE4 autoantibody, whereas elevated levels of HE4 Ag‐AAb complexes were detected in sera from 38% of early‐stage cases and 31% of late‐stage cases. Complementarity was observed in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves between HE4 Ag‐AAb complexes and CA 125 levels in early‐stage ovarian cancer (P < .001). CA 125 detected 63% of cases, and a combination of CA 125 and HE4 Ag‐AAb complexes detected 81%. Complementarity was also observed in ROC curves for an independent validation set with 69 early‐stage patients (P = .039). HE4 Ag‐AAb complexes were detected in serial preclinical serum samples from women destined to develop ovarian cancer: they correlated with CA 125 but did not provide a lead time.

Conclusions

HE4 Ag‐AAb complexes could complement CA 125 in detecting a higher fraction of early‐stage ovarian cancers.
Cloud‐based difference algorithm using big GPR data for roadbed damage detection
Authors: Xu Xianlei , Gao Wenru , Zhang Di , Li Taotao , Qiao Xu
Published: November 2019

Ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) technology is being widely used for urban roadbed damage detection. In this paper, we present the development of a cloud‐based difference detection method using big GPR data for roadbed damage detection. Unlike many processing methods relying on standalone servers, the proposed method can achieve high accuracy and processing efficiency by distributing the computation over a server cluster. The method includes a difference detection algorithm for GPR image enhancement and damage extraction, the Hadoop Distributed File System, and MapReduce distributed parallel computing framework for big GPR data parallel processing and interpretation. Moreover, to automatize roadbed damage classification, a criterion with seven grades is established based on the wave group shape, amplitude, phase, and attenuation characteristics. We validate the proposed method through a detection experiment that was conducted on the Fourth Ring Road in Beijing, China. The detection revealed 187 damage from the efficient processing of big GPR data, thus suggesting the ability of the proposed method to provide timely support for road safety in cities.
Human Tridimensional Neuronal Cultures for Phenotypic Drug Screening in Inherited Peripheral Neuropathies
Authors: Maciel Renata , Correa Renata , Bosso Taniguchi Juliana , Prufer Araujo Igor , Saporta Mario A.
Published: November 2019

Length‐dependent axonal degeneration is the pathologic hallmark of several neurodegenerative disorders, including inherited peripheral neuropathies (Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease). CMT is currently an untreatable disorder. This is partially due to lack of translational models suitable for drug discovery. In vitro models of CMT have been hindered by the 2D configuration of neuronal cultures, which limits visualization and orientation of axons. To overcome these limitations, we cultured induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived spinal motor neurons as 3D spheroids, which grow axons in a centrifugal fashion when plated. Using these iPSC‐derived spinal spheroids, we demonstrate neurofilament deposits in motor neuron axons of three patients with CMT2E, caused by mutations in the NEFL gene. This phenotype is partially reversed by two kinase inhibitors. In summary, we developed a human tridimensional in vitro system that models length‐dependent axonopathies, recapitulates key pathophysiologic features of CMT2E, and should facilitate the identification of new therapeutic compounds for CMT.
RbSbO3: A Simple Structure with Complex Polytypism
Authors: Rotter Markus , Stöger Berthold
Published: November 2019

RbSbO3 crystallizes in different polytypes composed of trigonal [SbO3]− and [Rb]+ layers, which can appear in two orientations with respect to m<100> and m<120>, respectively. The order–disorder (OD) polytype family comprises four polytypes of a maximum degree of order (MDO), of which two are realized in actual crystals: MDO1 (, c ≈ 19.8 Å, isotypic to ilmenite‐like KSbO3) and MDO2 (, c ≈ 39.2 Å, isotypic to AgRuO3). Crystals grown from RbF:Sb2O5 in a 2:1 ratio are MDO1:MDO2 allotwins, whereas crystals grown from a 12:1 mixture are composed of MDO2 only. The stacking ambiguity leads to twinning by rotation about <100> or <120>. KSbO3 crystals grown from KF:Sb2O5 are composed of the MDO1 polytype only. The crystals are fourfold twins owing to stacking faults. A detailed description of the analysis of the diffraction data is given.
In Situ Precipitation‐Induced Growth of Leaf‐like CuO Nanostructures on Cu–Ni Alloys for Binder‐Free Anodes in Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ha Jaeyun , Kim Yong‐Tae , Choi Jinsub
Published: November 2019

CuC2O4⋅x H2O was facilely prepared on a Cu–Ni alloy substrate by in situ precipitation‐induced growth by using a mixture of sodium persulfate, hydrogen peroxide, and oxalic acid. Thermal annealing allowed the conversion of CuC2O4⋅x H2O to leaf‐like CuO nanostructures with a thickness of a few tens of micrometers of sub‐sized nanoparticles, which were applied for fabricating binder‐free anodes for lithium‐ion batteries. Ni was a nucleation site for CuC2O4⋅x H2O, which was uniformly formed on the entire substrate. The concentration of each component in the mixture solution caused significant morphological changes because of the different elution of copper ions. CuO nanostructures annealed at 550 °C showed large areal and gravimetric capacity with excellent capacity retention of 95.5 % after 200 cycles at a high current density because of their appropriate structural morphology, which not only allowed the formation of a stable solid electrolyte interphase layer but also enabled a reversible reaction during the charge/discharge process.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Metal‐Free Synthesis of 2‐Phosphorylated Thioflavones in Water
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Ceng , Chen Xiao‐Lan , Liu Yan , Sun Kai , Peng Yu‐Yu , Qu Ling‐Bo , Yu Bing
Published: November 2019

The introduction of phosphorus functional groups into the skeleton of thioflavones is an attractive task and of great significance. Herein, a metal‐free visible‐light‐induced radical cascade cyclization was developed for the preparation of 2‐phosphorylated thioflavones from methylthiolated alkynones and phosphine oxides. In water as a green reaction medium, a large number of such 2‐phosphorylated thioflavones were prepared, catalyzed by 4CzIPN [1,2,3,5‐tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)‐4,6‐dicyanobenzene] under visible‐light irradiation. These reactions could be performed at ambient temperature and feature simple operation, wide reaction scope, and recyclability of aqueous media.
Capsule‐Structured Copper–Zinc Catalyst for Highly Efficient Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide to Methanol
Authors: Guo Yongle , Guo Xinwen , Song Chunshan , Han Xinghua , Liu Hongyang , Zhao Zhongkui
Published: November 2019

Invited for this month′s cover is the Advanced Catalytic Materials Research Group of Prof. Zhongkui Zhao at Dalian University of Technology. The image shows an innovative capsule strategy with a core–shell structure containing different Cu‐based catalyst components for more efficient conversion of CO2 to methanol. The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201902485.
Aerobic Oxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid over Holey 2 D Mn2O3 Nanoflakes from a Mn‐based MOF
Authors: Bao Liwei , Sun Fang‐Zhou , Zhang Guo‐Ying , Hu Tong‐Liang
Published: November 2019

The aerobic oxidation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), a promising renewable monomer to produce bio‐based polymers such as polyethylene furanoate (PEF), has recently emerged as the subject of increasing interest. Here, holey 2 D Mn2O3 nanoflakes were obtained by a facile thermal treatment of a Mn‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) precursor. The structural and morphological properties of the nanoflakes were characterized by powder XRD, FTIR, SEM and TEM to explore the formation process. It was inferred that the linker loss in the MOF precursor and the oxidation of the Mn cation induced by the heat‐treatment in air were responsible for the formation of holey 2 D Mn2O3 nanoflakes. The specific morphology and redox cycle of the Mn cation on the surface endowed the synthesized nanoflakes with promising performance on the selective oxidation. The obtained nanoflakes calcined at 400 °C (M400) afforded over 99.5 % yield of FDCA at complete conversion of HMF, which is superior to the catalytic activity of commercial Mn2O3 and activated MnO2. To our knowledge, Mn2O3 exhibiting such a high performance on the aerobic oxidation of HMF to FDCA has not yet been reported. Based on the investigation of the experimental parameters, a plausible reaction mechanism was proposed.
Cytologic features of vaping‐induced lung injury: A case report
Authors: Ocampo‐Gonzalez Fernando Alekos , Park Ji‐Weon
Published: November 2019

Vaping‐induced lung injury is a recently recognized phenomenon owing to the rising popularity of e‐cigarette use. A cluster of cases of varying severity, including six deaths, was recently reported in the United States by the Centers for Disease Control. The objective of this report is to highlight the cytologic features suggestive of vaping‐induced lung injury. A 20‐year‐old previously healthy man presented with a 7‐day history of progressively worsening respiratory symptoms including dyspnea on exertion, cough, and fever, with no improvement after initiating a course of antibiotics. No relevant travel or occupational history was reported, but patient endorsed daily use of e‐cigarette with a fluid containing both tetrahydrocannabinol and nicotine. Radiographic studies demonstrated scattered areas of interlobular septal thickening and diffuse ground‐glass opacities in both lungs. Laboratory tests for HIV and influenza were negative. Bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage were performed, with cytologic study showing clusters of benign bronchial cells and an increase in lipid‐laden macrophages by Oil Red O stain. Patient was placed on steroid and steadily improved for the next 2 days. He was discharged on a steroid taper and follow‐up with respiratory clinic. Case reports and series have shown a variety of lung injury patterns in previously healthy patients who are frequent users of e‐cigarettes and among them features suggestive of lipoid pneumonia with increased lipid‐laden macrophages. The clinical utility of this finding is still unclear.
Efficacy and harms of orally, intramuscularly or intravenously administered glucocorticoids for sciatica: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Abdel Shaheed Christina , Maher Chris G. , Buchbinder Rachelle , Ng Beverly , Enke Oliver , Guzowski Robert , McLachlan Andrew J. , Day Ric O. , Richards Bethan , Latimer Jane , Lin Chung‐Wei Christine
Published: November 2019

Background

Sciatica can be a debilitating condition and there is limited guidance on the use of glucocorticoids administered via the oral, intramuscular or intravenous route for this condition. These represent viable treatment options in the primary care setting.

Objective

To evaluate the evidence on efficacy and harms of oral, IM and IV glucocorticoid administration for sciatica.

Databases and data treatment

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, PsycINFO (inception to October 2018) were searched for randomised placebo‐controlled trials evaluating oral, IV or IM glucocorticoid administration for sciatica. Two authors extracted outcomes data. Continuous pain and disability outcomes were converted to a 0 (no pain/disability) to 100 (worst pain/disability) scale. Data were pooled using a random effects model. Overall quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE. Primary outcomes were leg pain and disability. Primary follow‐up period was the immediate‐term (<2 weeks from administration). We also considered adverse events.

Results

Nine trials were eligible. One study [n = 27] provided low quality evidence of a small reduction in disability with early administration of oral prednisone (within 1 week); MD −13.4 [−23.3, −3.5] but not for pain MD −2.5 [−16.9, 11.9]. There was low quality evidence from one study [n = 78] of moderate reduction in disability and small reduction in pain with early (within 72 hr of symptom onset) single intramuscular administration of methylprednisolone acetate; MD −24.5 [−38.8, −10.2] and −14.0 [−27.4, −0.6], respectively. There were no immediate‐term benefits with IV administration.

Conclusion

The effects of glucocorticoids on immediate‐term leg pain or disability are uncertain. Future large high quality trials are needed to resolve this uncertainty.
Electrochemical Determination of Vitamin D3 in Pharmaceutical Products by Using Boron Doped Diamond Electrode
Authors: Đurović Ana , Stojanović Zorica , Kravić Snežana , Kos Jovana , Richtera Lukáš
Published: November 2019

A sensitive square‐wave voltammetry method was developed to determine cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) in pharmaceutical products at boron‐doped diamond electrode as a working electrode. Vitamin D3 provided a well‐defined voltammetric peak at around +1.00 V (vs. Ag/AgCl, 3.5 mol dm−3) in 0.02 mol dm−3 Britton‐Robinson buffer pH 5.0 prepared in 50 % ethanol. The influence of various factors such as type and pH of the supporting electrolyte, scan rate and square‐wave parameters were studied and optimized. Under optimum conditions, the oxidation peak current increased linearly with the concentration of vitamin D3 over the range of 2 to 200 μmol dm−3. The calculated limit of detection and limit of quantitation were 0.17 μmol dm−3 and 0.51 μmol dm−3, respectively. The boron‐doped diamond electrode exhibited specific recognition capability for cholecalciferol amongst possible interferences, and the determination of vitamin D3 was possible in samples such as commercial pharmaceutical products without complicated sample pretreatments.
Sulfated Zirconia with Different Crystal Phases for the Production of Ethyl Levulinate and 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Shao Yuewen , Li Yue , Sun Kai , Zhang Zhanming , Tian Hongli , Gao Guoming , Li Qingyin , Liu Qianhe , Liu Qing , Hu Xun
Published: November 2019

Distinct crystal phases of an oxide affect the configuration of surface atoms, which might further affect coordination with sulfate during sulfonation for the preparation of SO42−/MxOy type of acid catalyst. Herein, such an effect is investigated with zirconia of the tetragonal or monoclinic phase as the model catalysts. The results show that sulfonation inhibits the transformation of zirconia from the tetragonal phase to the monoclinic phase, whereas the varied phase of zirconia also affects the bonding patterns of sulfate species with zirconia in sulfonation. The sulfated zirconia of monoclinic phase contains more abundant acidic sites and more Brønsted acid sites than that of sulfated zirconia of tetragonal phase. Consequently, the sulfated zirconia of monoclinic phase is more active than the sulfated zirconia of tetragonal phase for the conversion of furfuryl alcohol in ethanol and conversion of fructose in dimethyl sulfoxide, achieving the yield of ethyl levulinate of 96.4% and a high yield of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural. The sulfated zirconia is not stable in protic solvent due to the leaching of sulfur species and the change in configurations of the sulfate species and the zirconium species, but in the aprotic solvent, they show good stability and recyclability.
On‐farm seed priming and fertilizer micro‐dosing: Agronomic and economic responses of maize in semi‐arid Ethiopia
Authors: Sime Getachew , Aune Jens B.
Published: November 2019

On‐farm seed priming has been reported to improve emergence, crop establishment, and yield besides improving economic benefits in dryland agriculture. These benefits can further be improved by fertilizer micro‐dosing. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of on‐farm seed priming and fertilizer micro‐dosing on the agronomic and economic returns of maize (Zea mays L. var. Melkassa‐2) in semi‐arid agro‐ecological conditions in Ethiopia. The experiments consisted of four treatments: no priming and no fertilizer; no priming and fertilizer; priming and no fertilizer; and priming and fertilizer. The experiments were conducted in three locations viz., Melkassa, Ziway, and Hawassa in the central Rift Valley. Analysis of variance for each location was performed separately at p ˂ .05. Results of each location were similar over the experimentation years, and hence, there was no need for carrying out combined analysis. Regardless of fertilization, primed plants showed faster emergence; better uniform crop stands; more vigorous plants; earlier flowering; earlier harvest; and higher grain and stover yield than no primed plants. Germination was 2–3 days earlier, and flowering and maturation of primed plants were 10 to 13 days earlier than no primed plants. Average grain yield increased by 11, 8, and 6% in Melkassa, Ziway, and Hawassa, respectively, by priming over no priming. Fertilizer micro‐dosing combined with priming further improved most of the agronomic characters. Fertilizer micro‐dosing combined with priming increased the average grain yield by 75, 69, and 33% in Melkassa, Ziway, and Hawassa, respectively. The economic returns also increased in the same pattern as the agronomic responses for priming, micro‐dosing or their combination. To realize the potential of seed priming of increasing agronomic performances, future research and development efforts should focus on understanding the possible underling physiological and biochemical basis of this poorly understood process with the different priming techniques.
Parental effects and provisioning under drought and low phosphorus stress in common bean
Authors: Lorts Claire , Lynch Jonathan P. , Brown Kathleen M.
Published: November 2019

Low soil fertility and drought are primary constraints for crop production and food security in many developing nations. Since smallholder farmers often collect seed for the next year's crop from plants grown with abiotic stress, it is important to understand how progeny from a stressed parental environment perform when they are grown under similar stresses. This study investigates the impact of a low phosphorus (P) or drought parental environment on progeny seed and root traits in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), with the intention of distinguishing impacts of reduced parental provisioning from adaptive responses. Greenhouse, field, and seedling experiments were used to evaluate seed, seedling, and mature root phenotypes in progeny from stressed and nonstressed parental conditions. In addition, progeny from different positions within the pod and pod developmental times were evaluated since they are expected to vary in parental provisioning. Seeds from the peduncular position in the pod had less individual seed weight, fewer basal roots, reduced root dry weight, and smaller taproot diameter than those from the stylar position. Progeny of some genotypes from drought‐stressed parents had smaller individual seed weight, fewer basal roots, less total seedling dry weight, shorter seedling basal roots, and smaller basal root diameters. Progeny of some genotypes from a low P parental environment had smaller individual seed P concentration, fewer shoot‐borne roots, and greater basal root whorl number. Progeny from drought‐stressed parents, progeny from a low P parental environment, and seeds from the peduncular position had root phenotypes that were likely to be related to less parental provisioning. Possible adaptive parental effects were found in both parental drought and parental low P studies. Adequate seed provision under stress merits consideration as a selection target in crop breeding for stressful environments.
Working memory training and brain structure and function in extremely preterm or extremely low birth weight children
Authors: Kelly Claire E. , Thompson Deanne K. , Chen Jian , Josev Elisha K. , Pascoe Leona , Spencer‐Smith Megan M. , Adamson Chris , Nosarti Chiara , Gathercole Susan , Roberts Gehan , Lee Katherine J. , Doyle Lex W. , Seal Marc L. , Anderson Peter J.
Published: November 2019

This study in children born extremely preterm (EP; <28 weeks’ gestational age) or extremely low birth weight (ELBW; <1,000 g) investigated whether adaptive working memory training using Cogmed® is associated with structural and/or functional brain changes compared with a placebo program. Ninety‐one EP/ELBW children were recruited at a mean (standard deviation) age of 7.8 (0.4) years. Children were randomly allocated to Cogmed or placebo (45‐min sessions, 5 days a week over 5–7 weeks). A subset had usable magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data pretraining and 2 weeks posttraining (structural, n = 48; diffusion, n = 43; task‐based functional, n = 18). Statistical analyses examined whether cortical morphometry, white matter microstructure and blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) signal during an n‐back working memory task changed from pretraining to posttraining in the Cogmed and placebo groups separately. Interaction analyses between time point and group were then performed. There was a significant increase in neurite density in several white matter regions from pretraining to posttraining in both the Cogmed and placebo groups. BOLD signal in the posterior cingulate and precuneus cortices during the n‐back task increased from pretraining to posttraining in the Cogmed but not placebo group. Evidence for group‐by‐time interactions for the MRI measures was weak, suggesting that brain changes generally did not differ between Cogmed and placebo groups. Overall, while some structural and functional MRI changes between the pretraining and posttraining period in EP/ELBW children were observed, there was little evidence of training‐induced neuroplasticity, with changes generally identified in both groups. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, anzctr.org.au; ACTRN12612000124831.
Experience of family caregivers of hospitalized older people in Kolkata, India
Authors: Bhattacharyya Tulika , Chopra Chatterjee Suhita
Published: November 2019

In India, family caregivers (FCs) play a major role in providing care to their older kin during hospitalization. This article explores the challenges encountered by them while providing care in a public hospital. It draws upon empirical insights obtained through interviews with 54 FCs and field observations. The findings show that the hospital was not congenial for FCs and exposes the factors impeding their caregiving role. FC experience was found to be highly complex and fraught with multiple practical challenges during admission, in‐hospital treatment, and at discharge. All these had repercussions on various aspects of their own life and well‐being like poor health outcomes, financial stress, and social isolation. The article concludes that the needs, preferences, and challenges of the FCs need to be considered to make hospitals conducive for FCs of older people.
A Polysiloxide Complex with two Chromium(III) η2‐Superoxo Moieties
Authors: Wind Marie‐Louise , Braun‐Cula Beatrice , Schax Fabian , Herwig Christian , Limberg Christian
Published: November 2019

The isolation and identification of intermediates formed in the course of the activation of dioxygen at transition metal centers reveals important mechanistic insights concerning such processes. We previously reported the reaction of the dinuclear CrII complex [L2Cr2(MeCN)2][Li(MeCN)]2 (L=PhSi(OSiPh2O−)3) (5) with dioxygen, which resulted in the formation of the CrIV oxo complex [L2Cr2O2][Li(THF)2]2 (6), as the final room temperature stable product. Here we now report the isolation and characterization of an intermediate en route to 6, namely the dinuclear CrIII superoxo complex [L2Cr2(O2)2][Li(MeCN)]2 (7). 7 is the first example of a structurally characterized dinuclear CrIII superoxo complex with two independent side‐on bound superoxo ligands. Reactivity studies outline the capability of this superoxo complex to activate weak O−H bonds.
Transdermal Estrogen in Women With Anorexia Nervosa: An Exploratory Pilot Study
Authors: Resulaj Megi , Polineni Sai , Meenaghan Erinne , Eddy Kamryn , Lee Hang , Fazeli Pouneh K
Published: November 2019

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by self‐induced starvation, low body weight, and elevated levels of bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT). BMAT is negatively associated with BMD in AN and more than 85% of women with AN have low bone mass and an increased risk of fracture. Although a majority of women with AN are amenorrheic, which is associated with low BMD, oral contraceptive pills, containing supraphysiologic doses of estrogen, are not effective in increasing bone mass. We performed a 6‐month, open‐label study of transdermal estradiol (0.045 mg/day) + levonorgestrel (0.015 mg/day) in 11 women with AN (mean age ± SEM: 37.2 ± 2.3 years) to investigate the effects of transdermal, physiologic doses of estrogen on BMD and BMAT in women with AN. We measured change in BMD by DXA, change in BMAT at the spine/hip by 1H‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and change in C‐terminal collagen cross‐links (CTX), P1NP, osteocalcin, IGF‐1, and sclerostin after 3 and 6 months of transdermal estrogen. Lumbar spine (2.0% ± 0.8%; p = 0.033) and lateral spine (3.2% ± 1.1%; p = 0.015) BMD increased after 6 months of transdermal estrogen. Lumbar spine BMAT decreased significantly after 3 months (−13.9 ± 6.0%; p = 0.046). Increases in lateral spine BMD were associated with decreases in CTX (p = 0.047). In conclusion, short‐term treatment with transdermal, physiologic estrogen increases spine BMD in women with AN. Future studies are needed to assess the long‐term efficacy of this treatment. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Smoking and Alcohol Intake but Not Muscle Strength in Young Men Increase Fracture Risk at Middle Age: A Cohort Study Linked to the Swedish National Patient Registry
Authors: Prieto-Alhambra Daniel , Turkiewicz Aleksandra , Reyes Carlen , Timpka Simon , Rosengren Björn , Englund Martin
Published: November 2019

We aimed to determine the relationship between handgrip strength, smoking, and alcohol consumption in young men and fracture risk at middle age. Thus, we carried out a cohort study including young men undergoing conscription examination in Sweden from September 1969 to May 1970 at a typical age of 18 years. Data on muscle strength, height, weight, and lifestyle factors were linked to the National Patient Register 1987–2010. Handgrip strength was considered the main exposure and smoking and alcohol consumption as secondary exposures. Outcomes were all fractures (except face, skull, digits), major osteoporotic fractures (thoracic/lumbar spine, proximal humerus, distal forearm or hip), and major traumatic fractures (shaft of humerus, forearm, femur, or lower leg) based on ICD-9 and -10 codes. We used Cox regression models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) according to handgrip strength as a continuous variable (per 1 SD), after adjustment for weight, height, parental education, smoking, and alcohol consumption. A total of 40,112 men were included, contributing 892,572 person-years. Overall, 3974 men fractured in middle age with the incidence rate (95% CI) of 44.5 (43.2–45.9) per 1000 person-years. The corresponding rates were12.2 and 5.6 per 1000 person-years for major osteoporotic and traumatic fractures, respectively. Handgrip strength-adjusted HR (95% CI) was 1.01 (0.98–1.05), 0.94 (0.88–1.00), and 0.98 (0.88–1.08) per SD for all, major osteoporotic, and major traumatic fractures, respectively. Adjusted HR (95% CI) for smokers (>21 cigarettes/d) was 1.44 (1.21, 1.71) for all fractures, while the association between alcohol consumption and hazards of fracture was J-shaped. Therefore, young adult handgrip strength was not associated with fracture risk in middle-age men, although smoking and high alcohol consumption did confer an increased risk. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Optimizing management of replacement fluids for therapeutic plasma exchange: Use of an automated mathematical model to predict post‐procedure fibrinogen and antithrombin levels in high‐risk patients
Authors: Zhang Ray , Dahl Aaron B. , Marchant Bryan , Jackups Ronald R. , Karnes Hope E. , Shah Priyank , Dynis Marian , Thibodeaux Suzanne R. , Despotis George J.
Published: November 2019

Background

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) utilizes an extracorporeal circuit to remove pathologic proteins causing serious illness. When processing a patient's entire blood volume through an extracorporeal circuit, proteins responsible for maintaining hemostatic system homeostasis can reach critically low levels if replacement fluid types and volumes are not carefully titrated, which may increase complications.

Methods

The charts from 27 patients undergoing 46 TPE procedures were reviewed to evaluate the accuracy of our predictive mathematical model, utilizing the following patient information: weight, hematocrit, pre‐ and post‐TPE factor levels (fibrinogen, n = 46, and antithrombin, n = 23), process volume and volumes of fluids (eg, plasma, albumin, and normal saline) administered during TPE and adverse events during and after TPE.

Results

Altogether, 25% of patients experienced minor adverse events that resolved spontaneously or with management. There were no bleeding or thrombotic complications. The mean difference between predicted and measured post‐TPE fibrinogen concentrations was −0.29 mg/dL (SD ±23.0, range −59 to 37), while percent difference between measured and predicted fibrinogen concentration was 0.94% (SD ±10.8, range of −22 to 19). The mean difference between predicted and measured post‐TPE antithrombin concentrations were 0.89% activity (SD ±10.0, range −23 to 14), while mean percent difference between predicted and measured antithrombin concentrations was 3.87% (SD ±14.5, range −25 to 38).

Conclusions

Our model reliably predicts post‐TPE fibrinogen and antithrombin concentrations, and may help optimize patient management and attenuate complications.
Integrin α7 is overexpressed and correlates with higher pathological grade, increased T stage, advanced TNM stage as well as worse survival in clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients: A retrospective study
Authors: Chen Yue , Wang Yang , Cai Zhixing , Fan Xiaoli , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study aimed to explore the association of integrin α7 with clinicopathological characteristics and overall survival (OS) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients.

Methods

179 ccRCC patients who underwent nephrectomy were included in this retrospective study. Tumor tissue and paired adjacent tissue specimens of patients were obtained. Immunohistochemistry assay was performed to detect integrin α7 expression. OS was calculated with the median follow‐up duration of 91.0 months (range: 3.0‐116.0 months).

Results

Integrin α7 was highly expressed in tumor tissue compared to paired adjacent tissue (P < .001), and tumor integrin α7 high expression was correlated with higher pathological grade (P = .004), increased T stage (P = .017), and advanced TNM stage (P = .033). Kaplan–Meier curve showed that patients with integrin α7 high expression (mean OS = 69.8, 95%CI: 60.5‐79.1 months) presented with worse OS compared to patients with integrin α7 low expression (mean OS = 101.8, 95%CI: 96.0‐107.7 months; P < .001). Multivariate Cox's regression analysis further disclosed that tumor integrin α7 high expression independently predicted poor OS (P < .001).

Conclusion

Integrin α7 is upregulated and correlates with higher pathological grade, increased T stage, and advanced TNM stage, meanwhile it also acts as a valuable prognostic factor for worse survival in ccRCC patients.
Candidate foraging gene orthologs in a lower termite, Reticulitermes flavipes
Authors: Merchant Austin , Song Dongyan , Yang Xiaowei , Li Xiangrui , Zhou Xuguo “Joe” 
Published: November 2019

Under a sociogenomic context, the molecular mechanisms underlying gene‐behavior associations are of particular interest. The Drosophila foraging (for) gene has been demonstrated to have a causal role in insect behavioral plasticity. Previous studies of for have revealed many facets of for function, including roles in foraging, energy metabolism, learning and memory, circadian rhythm, and stress resistance. for orthologs have been identified in a variety of insect taxa. However, expression patterns are not consistent across all insects, with for orthologs serving as both positive and negative regulators of foraging behavior. In this study, we cloned two for orthologs, Rffor‐α and Rffor‐β, from the Eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes. Spatial distribution study showed that the termite brain possesses significantly higher expression levels of Rffor‐α and Rffor‐β than other types of tissues, which suggests that for may act on the brain to influence an individual's ability to respond to its environment. The temporal expression profile of Rffor across different developmental stages suggests that Rffor functions as a negative regulator of foraging behavior. However, results from environmental impacts, that is, temperature and photoperiod, do not fit under a model of negative correlation between gene expression and locomotion. Further testing is warranted to better understand the interaction between Rffor expression and the environment.
Visualizing the agreement of peptide assignments between different search engines
Authors: Agten Annelies , Van Houtven Joris , Askenazi Manor , Burzykowski Tomasz , Laukens Kris , Valkenborg Dirk
Published: November 2019

There is a trend in the analysis of shotgun proteomics data that aims to combine information from multiple search engines to increase the number of peptide annotations in an experiment. Typically, the degree of search engine complementarity and search engine agreement is visually illustrated by means of Venn diagrams that present the findings of a database search on the level of the nonredundant peptide annotations. We argue this practice to be not fit‐for‐purpose since the diagrams do not take into account and often conceal the information on complementarity and agreement at the level of the spectrum identification. We promote a new type of visualization that provides insight on the peptide sequence agreement at the level of the peptide‐spectrum match (PSM) as a measure of consensus between two search engines with nominal outcomes. We applied the visualizations and percentage sequence agreement to an in‐house data set of our benchmark organism, Caenorhabditis elegans, and illustrated that when assessing the agreement between search engine, one should disentangle the notion of PSM confidence and PSM identity. The visualizations presented in this manuscript provide a more informative assessment of pairs of search engines and are made available as an R function in the Supporting Information.