bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[60]Fullerene Hybrids Bearing “Steroid Wings”: A Joined Experimental and Theoretical Investigation
Authors: Almagro Luis , Lemos Reinier , Makowski Kamil , Rodríguez Hortensia , Ortiz Orlando , Cáceres William , Herranz M. Ángeles , Molero Dolores , Martínez‐Álvarez Roberto , Suárez Margarita , Martín Nazario
Published: July 2020

Novel [60]fullerene‐steroid hybrids have been synthesized by Bingel–Hirsch cyclopropanation reaction between C60 and steroid malonates, leading to conjugates in which a [60]fullerene unit is connected to one or two dehydroepiandrosterone moieties, an important naturally occurring steroid hormone. The obtained derivatives have been fully characterized by a whole set of instrumental techniques in order to determine their chemical structure. Moreover, their electrochemical properties, investigated by cyclic voltammetry, revealed the presence of three reversible reduction waves for both hybrids. Furthermore, Transmission Electron Microscopy studies allowed to determine the morphology and size of the fullerene hybrids in aqueous solution, showing a tendency to organize into spherical nanoscale structures. Theoretical calculations using the DFT‐PBE method and 6‐311G(d,p) basis set, were performed to predict the most stable conformations for the synthesized compounds, and to determine the factors that control the geometry of these hybrid molecules. In addition, parameters such as polarity, and lipophilicity were estimated. The obtained results corroborate the predicted activity against HIV‐1 protease as suggested by molecular docking simulation.
Continuous‐Flow Nanoparticle Trapping Driven by Hybrid Electrokinetics in Microfluidics
Authors: Liu Weiyu , Tao Ye , Xue Rui , Song Chunlei , Wu Qisheng , Ren Yukun
Published: July 2020

We introduce herein an efficient microfluidic approach for continuous transport and localized collection of nanoparticles via hybrid electrokinetics, which delicately combines linear and nonlinear electrokinetics driven by a composite DC‐biased AC voltage signal. The proposed technique utilizes a simple geometrical structure, in which one or a series of metal strips serving as floating electrode (FE) are attached to the substrate surface and arranged in parallel between a pair of coplanar driving electrodes (DE) in a straight microchannel. On application of a DC‐biased AC electric field across the channel, nanoparticles can be transported continuously by DC bulk electroosmotic flow, and then trapped selectively onto the metal strips due to AC‐field induced‐charge electrokinetic (ICEK) phenomenon, which behaves as counter‐rotating micro‐vortices around the ideally polarizable surfaces of FE. Finite‐element simulation is carried out by coupling the dual‐frequency electric field, flow field and sample mass transfer in sequence, for guiding a practical design of the microfluidic nanoparticle concentrator. With the optimal device geometry, the actual performance of the technique is investigated with respect to DC bias, AC voltage amplitude, and field frequency by using both latex nanospheres (∼500 nm) and BSA molecules (∼10 nm). Our experimental observation indicates nanoparticles are always enriched into a narrow bright band on the surface of each FE, and a horizontal concentration gradient even emerges in the presence of multiple metal strips, which therefore permits localized analyte enrichment. The proposed trapping method is supposed to guide an elaborate design of flexible electrokinetic frameworks embedding FE for continuous‐flow analyte manipulation in modern microfluidic systems.
From your eyes only: Efficiency of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA isolation from contact lenses at crime scenes
Authors: C. Zapico Sara , Crucet Krizia , Antevska Aleksandra , Fernandez‐Paradas Rosalina , Burns Christina , DeGaglia Cassandra , Ubelaker Douglas H.
Published: July 2020

Recovering appropriate evidence from crime scenes to identify the perpetrator, or in certain cases, the victim, is one of the main goals of forensic investigation. The current practice includes collection of objects from which “trace” or “touch” DNA may be retrieved. Contact lenses, worn by the perpetrator/victim, represent a potentially good source of DNA. This is based on their exposure to touch DNA and the release and regeneration of epithelial cells from the eye. This study takes these premises into account with the objective of analyzing the efficiency of human nuclear and mitochondrial DNA isolation from contact lenses. DNA was collected using a non‐destructive technique (double‐swab) and subsequently isolated using a silica‐based methodology. Although DNA quantification was variable among subjects and contact lenses, it was sufficient to amplify some STRs and successfully sequence mtDNA. The findings from this research provide a proof‐of‐concept that it is possible to recover, isolate, amplify human nuclear DNA, and characterize mitochondrial DNA from contact lenses left at crime scenes. These results show the potential importance of recovering unusual items from crime scenes as a potential source of DNA to identify the victim and/or suspect.
Laboratory‐scale simulation of industrial neutral electrolytic pickling as a bipolar system—Parameters affecting indirect polarization pickling of annealed stainless steel
Authors: Tuovinen Teemu , Vielma Tuomas , Lassi Ulla
Published: July 2020

As the production of stainless steel increases, environmental concerns due to an increasing demand of production capacity, require an efficient use of energy and materials. Efficient removal of otherwise slow‐to‐dissolve chromium oxide layer can be achieved with electrochemical pre‐pickling before final mixed acid pickling. Neutral electrolytic pickling can be used to rapidly dissolve chromium oxides but suffers from low current efficiency of both the reaction and the system. In order to study the effect of critical parameters for the current efficiency of the system, a pickling device was assembled. A system current efficiency factorial analysis of bipolar neutral electrolytic pickling was conducted for temperature, electrolyte concentration, cell potential, and electrode‐to‐sample distance. Lowering the concentration of electrolytes shows potential to increase current efficiency significantly as conductivity can be used to reduce electrode‐to‐electrode short‐circuiting, which is the biggest cause of decreased efficiency in neutral electrolytic pickling. Increasing the temperature has a positive effect on efficiency, despite increased conductivity, possibly from increasing reaction kinetics.
Seismic control of flexible rocking structures using inerters
Authors: Thiers‐Moggia Rodrigo , Málaga‐Chuquitaype Christian
Published: July 2020

Allowing flexible structures to uplift and rock during earthquakes can significantly reduce the force demands and residual displacements. However, such structures are still susceptible to large deformations and accelerations that can compromise their functionality. In this paper, we examine the dynamic response of elastic rocking oscillators and suggest that their lateral drifts and accelerations can be limited effectively by using inerter devices. To this end, we offer a detailed examination of the effects of structural flexibility on the efficiency of the proposed system. The analytical expressions governing the motion of deformable structures with base uplift are revisited to incorporate the effects of the supplemental rotational inertia. The proposed model is then used to study the structural demands of flexible rocking structures under coherent pulses as well as noncoherent real pulse‐like ground motions. Our results show that combining rocking with inerters can be an efficient strategy to control the deformation and acceleration demands in uplifting flexible systems.
Brain white matter microstructure in obese women with binge eating disorder
Authors: Estella Nara Mendes , Sanches Liana Guerra , Maranhão Mara Fernandes , Hoexter Marcelo Queiroz , Schmidt Ulrike , Campbell Iain C. , Amaro Edson , Claudino Angélica Medeiros
Published: July 2020

Objective

Research on potential brain circuit abnormalities in binge eating disorder (BED) is limited. Here, we assess white matter (WM) microstructure in obese women with BED.

Method

Diffusion tensor imaging data were acquired, and tract‐based spatial statistics used to examine WM in women with BED who were obese (n= 17) compared to normal‐weight (NWC) (n= 17) and to women who were obese (OBC) (n= 13). Body mass index (BMI) was a covariate in the analyses.

Results

The BED group (vs. NWC) had greater axial diffusion (AD) in the forceps minor, anterior thalamic radiation, superior and inferior longitudinal fasciculus, that is, in pathways connecting fronto‐limbic regions. Microstructures differences in AD between the BED and OBC groups were seen in fronto‐limbic pathways extending to temporoparietal pathways. The BED (vs. OBC) group had greater fractional anisotropy in the forceps minor and greater AD in the superior longitudinal fasciculus, cingulate gyrus, and corpus callosum, consistent with fronto‐tempoparietal pathways.

Conclusion

Women with BED show WM alterations in AD in fronto‐limbic and parietal pathways that are important in decision‐making processes. As BMI was a covariate in the analyses, alterations in BED may be part of the pathology, but whether they are a cause or effect of illness is unclear.
Driving better intervention outcomes in eating disorders: A systematic synthesis of research priority setting and the involvement of consumer input
Authors: Wade Tracey D. , Hart Laura M. , Mitchison Deborah , Hay Phillipa
Published: July 2020

Objective

Setting specific research priorities and involving consumers in this process is one pathway to driving better intervention outcomes in eating disorders (EDs). We reviewed research priority setting in the field and the involvement of consumers in this priority setting.

Method

A systematic review following the PRSIMA statement was conducted and eight studies were identified for inclusion; four included substantial input from consumers, and four were researcher led. Similarities and differences across the types of studies were examined.

Results

Research priorities informed by consumers were primarily concerned with producing better interventions and outcomes. A large degree of overlap with researcher‐led priorities was present. The former studies had a greater focus on early intervention, bridging the research‐practice gap, and recovery, while the latter were more likely to address diagnosis, genetic factors, brain circuitry, and pharmacotherapy. Priorities endorsed across more than one consumer‐informed study included: the role of self‐harm, working with health care professionals to increase early detection, supporting transition between services, and six issues about improved treatments.

Conclusions

The ED field needs to engage in more meaningful involvement of co‐design across consumers, clinicians and researchers along the entire research journey, not just research priority setting. An integrated research strategy incorporating a co‐design perspective has the potential to drive better outcomes.
Headspace sampling‐gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometer as a screening method to thermally extract fireground contaminants from retired firefighting turnout jackets
Authors: Shinde Adhiraj , Ormond R. Bryan
Published: July 2020

Firefighters are at a 1.5 to 2 times greater risk of contracting certain types of cancers as compared to the general population. After preliminary studies, it was evident that contaminated turnout gear and ensemble elements could be linked to heightened cancer rates amongst firefighters. Compounds such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), perfluorinated compounds, phenols, phthalates, brominated flame retardants, dioxins, volatile organic compounds, and many others are present in the contaminated gear, of which many are known carcinogens. A setup of headspace sampler‐gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometer was used to measure the off‐gassing of the fabric samples taken from retired field‐contaminated turnout jackets. The fabric samples were exposed to a specific temperature and allowed to equilibrate for a fixed time in the HS. A custom reference mix of phenols, phthalates and PAHs was put together to develop standard calibration curves. The compounds off‐gassing from the outer shell, thermal liner and the moisture barrier were analyzed and the masses of certain marker compounds were calculated based of the standard calibration curves. The technique could be used as a screening method to thermally extract contaminants from field‐contaminated firefighter turnout materials such as jackets, pants, gloves, and so on.
Identification of four novel compounds in citrus oils via high‐performance liquid chromatography, using post‐column luminol‐mediated chemiluminescence detection and NMR analysis
Authors: Wang Ying , Calandra Michael J. , Veazey Robert
Published: July 2020

Two unknown peaks were sometimes observed during analysis for terpene hydroperoxides (THPs) in various citrus oils using high‐performance liquid chromatography with post‐column luminol‐mediated chemiluminescence detection (HPLC‐CL). These two peaks showed behaviour similar to previously observed peroxyhemiacetals (PHAs) that formed from THPs and aldehydes in citrus oils. Like those PHAs, the unknown peaks also diminished in aqueous solution over time, but instead of liberating THPs, H2O2 was the product of dissociation. Working in tangerine oil, a similar investigation was performed as per our previously reported work on terpene‐derived PHAs, and these two unknown peaks were attributed to PHA adducts of H2O2 with octanal (C8 ald) or decanal (C10 ald), respectively. Each peak consisted of an enantiomeric pair, and the identification of these four compounds was made via HPLC‐CL retention time matching using two separation systems with different selectivity, and NMR analysis. The two enantiomeric adducts from H2O2 and octanal co‐eluted with linalool acetate hydroperoxide (Lin‐Ac‐HP) if it was present in the oil, but they can be distinguished by re‐injecting aged prepared samples. The H2O2‐derived PHAs will slowly dissociate and therefore be decreased by the sample preparation treatment while any Lin‐Ac‐HP that may be present will remain unchanged or increase.
Formation and evolution of Xianshuihe Fault Belt in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau: Constraints from structural deformation and geochronology
Authors: Chen Yingtao , Zhang Guowei , Lu Rukui , Luo Tingting , Li Yang , Yu Wenxin
Published: July 2020

The Xianshuihe Fault Belt (XSF), along which the syntectonic Zheduoshan batholith was emplaced, has great significance for the reconstruction of the tectonic framework in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. In this contribution, formation process and evolution of the XSF are discussed based on the structural deformation in the field and the geochronology of Zheduoshan batholith. The results show that the XSF current arc‐shaped protrusion to the north‐east probably was formed by a fracture of the clockwise rotation compression that extended northward to the periphery with the eastern Himalayan tectonic syntaxis as the centre. It is a complex fault belt formed by the superposition of multi‐stage structures. In the early‐stage formation and evolution of the XSF, the Oligocene‐Miocene migmatite zone and Miocene granites of the Zheduoshan batholith were emplaced. Among them, the lower limit of the XSF's initial activity time was not less than 47 Ma that was limited by the Zircon U–Pb geochronology of migmatite zone formed under the compression system. During the emplacement of Miocene granites, the XSF underwent a process from compression to sinistral strike‐slip, and the geochronology indicates that the onset of the XSF sinistral strike slip should not be less than 14 Ma. After syntectic magmatism, the XSF also experienced the shear deformation (from ductile to brittle) with sinistral kinematics.40Ar‐39Argeochronology results show that the ductile shear deformation mainly occurred around 5.5–3.2 Ma and accompanied a staged and differential uplift from north to south. It extended to the south along the weak crustal zone of Anninghe, Daliangshan, Xiaojiang, and other faults, forming the Xianshuihe–Anninghe–Xiaojiang sinistral strike‐slip fault system on the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, and large‐scale sinistral strike slip began around 5 Ma. Our new insights lay a foundation for understanding and dissecting the formation and evolution of the Tibetan Plateau eastern margin.
Corporate governance and firms financial performance in the United Kingdom
Authors: Kyere Martin , Ausloos Marcel
Published: July 2020

The objective of this study is to examine empirically the impact of good corporate governance on financial performance of United Kingdom non‐financial listed firms. Agency theory and stewardship theory serve as the bases of a conceptual model. Five corporate governance mechanisms are examined on two financial performance indicators, return on assets and Tobin's Q, employing cross‐sectional regression methodology. The conclusion drawn from empirical test so performed on 252 firms listed on London Stock Exchange for the year 2014 indicates a positive or a negative relationship, but also sometimes no effect, of corporate governance mechanisms impact on financial performance. The implications are discussed. Thereby, so distinguishing effects due to causes, we present a proof that, when the right corporate governance mechanisms are chosen, the finances of a firm can be improved. The results of this research should have some implication on academia and policy makers thoughts.
Characterizing near‐infrared spectroscopy signal under hypercapnia
Authors: Yang Ho‐Ching (Shawn) , Liang Zhenhu , Vike Nicole L. , Lee Taylor , Rispoli Joseph V. , Nauman Eric A. , Talavage Thomas M. , Tong Yunjie
Published: July 2020

Vasoactive stress tests (i.e. hypercapnia, elevated partial pressure of arterial CO2 [PaCO2]) are commonly used in functional MRI (fMRI), to induce cerebral blood flow changes and expose hidden perfusion deficits in the brain. Compared with fMRI, near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is an alternative low‐cost, real‐time, and non‐invasive tool, which can be applied in out‐of‐hospital settings. To develop and optimize vasoactive stress tests for NIRS, several hypercapnia‐induced tasks were tested using concurrent‐NIRS/fMRI on healthy subjects. The results indicated that the cerebral and extracerebral reactivity to elevated PaCO2 depended on the rate of the CO2 increase. A steep increase resulted in different cerebral and extracerebral reactivities, leading to unpredictable NIRS measurements compared with fMRI. However, a ramped increase, induced by ramped‐CO2 inhalation or breath‐holding tasks, induced synchronized cerebral, and extracerebral reactivities, resulting in consistent NIRS and fMRI measurements. These results demonstrate that only tasks that increase PaCO2 gradually can produce reliable NIRS results.
Bone Geometry, Density, and Microarchitecture in the Distal Radius and Tibia in Adults With Marfan Syndrome Assessed by HR-pQCT
Authors: Folkestad Lars , Groth Kristian A , Shanbhogue Vikram , Hove Hanne , Kyhl Kasper , Østergaard John R , Jørgensen Niklas Rye , Andersen Niels H , Gravholt Claus H
Published: July 2020

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a hereditary disorder of connective tissue caused by mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene. Studies have shown that patients with MFS have lower bone mass, but little is known about the other constituents of bone strength. We hypothesize that patients with MFS will have larger bone area and compromised cortical microarchitecture compared with non-MFS individuals. A total of 74 adult patients with MFS and 145 age- and sex-matched non-MFS reference individuals were included in this study. High-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) at the distal radius and distal tibia and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of total hip and the lumbar spine were performed, and bone turnover and sex hormones were measured. Patients with MFS had significantly lower areal bone mineral density (BMD) at the total spine (−13%) and total hip (−7%) when compared with the reference group. Patients with MFS had significantly larger total bone area at both the radius (+27%) and tibia (+34%). Volumetric BMD at both measured sites showed significantly reduced total, trabecular, and cortical volumetric BMD in patients with MFS compared with the reference group. The microarchitectural parameters at the radius and tibia were compromised in patients with MFS with significantly reduced trabecular number and thickness, leading to a higher trabecular separation and significantly reduced cortical thickness and increased cortical porosity compared with the reference group. The differences in bone density, geometry, or microarchitecture were not explained by increased bone turnover markers or circulating levels of sex hormones. We conclude patients with MFS have altered bone geometry, altered bone microstructure, and lower bone mass (lower areal BMD and volumetric BMD at all sites) compared with healthy reference individuals. Future studies should focus on fracture rates and fracture risk in adult and aging patients with MFS. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Mechanochromic and vapochromic fluorescence of a bulky π‐system: Alkyl chain‐length effects, triplex emission, and differential sensing of aniline vapors
Authors: Lee Chin‐Han , Hsu Li‐Yun , Lien Chen‐Yu , Huang Pei‐Yu , Yang Jye‐Shane
Published: July 2020

The interplay of mechanical grinding and aniline vapor fuming on the fluorescence of the pentiptycene‐anthracene‐pentiptycene π‐conjugated molecules PAP‐Cn, where n is 4, 8, 12, or 16 and refers to the number of carbon atom in the terminal alkyl chains, in solid films are reported. The differences and similarities among the four homologs have led to a conclusion of the formation of an emissive triplex state for the ground and fumed films. Thermogravimetric analysis reveals the guest‐host molar ratio and the retention ability of the aniline on the various types of films. A stepwise protocol of fuming‐grinding‐annealing is developed for fluorimetric differential sensing of eight substituted aniline vapors with a single probe of PAP‐C8. The role of the bulky pentiptycene groups in the observed fluorescence properties is also discussed.
Ion chromatography as candidate reference method for the determination of chloride in human serum
Authors: Shen Min , Tu Minmin , Zhang Wei , Zou Jihua , Zhang Man , Cao Zheng , Zou Bingde
Published: July 2020

Background

We developed an ion chromatography (IC) method for measurement of chloride in human serum which was regarded as a simple, rapid, accurate, and sensitive technique. The method will be hopefully selected as a candidate reference method.

Method

Serum aliquots of 0.1 mL were diluted 500 times with Milli‐Q water, and chloride in serum samples was measured by IC with a gradient elution procedure using a KOH eluent generator.

Results

Based on the data, chloride in human serum was well detected by IC. The calibration curve for chloride was linear in the concentration range from 0 to 0.42 mmol/L with a correlation coefficient of .99995 under the optimum experimental conditions. The chloride concentration had a good linear relationship with the peak areas of chloride. This method was sensitive because of the low limit of detection (LOD) and the low limit of quantification (LOQ) 9.87 × 10−5 mmol/L and 3.27 × 10−4 mmol/L, respectively. Besides, the method was highly precise with the within‐run coefficient of variations (CVs) for the measurement of low, medium, and high concentration level samples 0.32%, 0.73%, and 0.50%. As for the evaluation of accuracy, the biases were less than ±1% and 2% by comparing with National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) standard material SRM 956d and 2013‐2018 IFCC‐RELA samples, respectively. Finally, the biases between IC method and the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) method were less than 1% which showed good agreement.

Conclusion

Ion chromatography is a simple sample treatment procedure for the determination of chloride in human serum with high sensitivity and specificity. The proposed method could be recommended as a candidate reference method for the determination of serum chloride in human serum.
Efficient synthesis and characterization of novel bis‐heterocyclic derivatives and benzo‐fused macrocycles containing oxazolone or imidazolone subunits
Authors: Sanad Sherif M. H. , Mekky Ahmed E. M.
Published: July 2020

Bis(3‐(arylthiomethyl)benzaldehydes), linked to aliphatic spacers via ethers, were prepared and used as key synthons for the bis(2‐phenyloxazol‐5(4H)‐ones) via their reaction with benzoylglycine in acetic anhydride in the presence of fused sodium acetate at 100°C for 6 hours. Bis(oxazol‐5(4H)‐ones) were reacted with the appropriate aromatic or heterocyclic amines in glacial acetic acid in the presence of fused sodium acetate at 100°C for 24 hours to afford a novel series of bis(2‐phenylimidazol‐4‐ones) and their related hybrids with benzo[d]thiazole and pyrimidine‐2,4(1H,3H)‐dione. Moreover, bis(oxazol‐5(4H)‐ones) reacted with (4‐aminobenzoyl)glycine to afford bis[(4‐(5‐oxo‐1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)benzoyl)glycine] derivatives followed by their reaction with anisaldehyde in acetic anhydride containing fused sodium acetate at 100°C for 12 hours to afford bis(5‐oxo‐1H‐imidazol‐1‐yloxazol‐5(4H)‐one) hybrids. Furthermore, bis(3‐(arylthiomethyl)benzaldehydes) were reacted with 2,2′‐(terephthaloylbis(azanediyl))diacetic acid in acetic anhydride containing fused sodium acetate at 100°C for 12 hours to give benzo‐fused macrocycles containing oxazolone subunits which reacted with appropriate aromatic amines in DMF and glacial acetic acid containing fused sodium acetate at 100°C for 24 hours to give benzo‐fused macrocycles containing imidazolone subunits.
Microwave assisted synthesis of 4‐methyl‐3‐arylpyrano[2,3‐f]chromen‐2(8H)‐one derivatives, evaluation of antiproliferative, and antimicrobial activities
Authors: Dharavath Ravinder , Sarasija Madderla , Ram Reddy Makthal , Nalaparaju Nagaraju , Katta Ramakrishna , Ashok Dongamanti
Published: July 2020

A series of new 4‐methyl‐3‐arylpyrano[2,3‐f]chromen‐2(8H)‐one derivatives were designed and synthesized through an efficient, an eco‐friendly manner under microwave irradiation and conventional heating methods. Structures of final compounds established based on IR, NMR and mass spectral analysis. The final target compounds were screened for their in vitro antiproliferative activity by taking cisplatin as a reference, Further, antibacterial activity by taking strains such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, antifungal activity screened with Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium oxysporum strains. Many compounds results good activity.
One‐pot, three‐component synthesis of polyfunctionalized benzo[h]pyrazolo[3,4‐b][1,6]naphthyridine and benzo[g]pyrazolo[3,4‐b]quinoline derivatives in the presence of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)
Authors: Khalafy Jabbar , Majidi Arlan Fatemeh , Poursattar Marjani Ahmad , Sarchami Vahid
Published: July 2020

An efficient and straightforward protocol for one‐pot, three‐component reaction of aryl glyoxal monohydrates1a‐h, 5‐amino‐1‐aryl‐3‐methylpyrazoles2a,band 4‐hydroxyquinoline‐2(1H)‐one (3) or 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone (4) using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a high performance nanocatalyst in H2O/EtOH at 60°C afforded the corresponding polyfunctionalized benzo[h]pyrazolo[3,4‐b][1,6]naphthyridines5a‐hand benzo[g]pyrazolo[3,4‐b]quinolines6a‐i, respectively. Excellent catalytic activity, high yields, employing green media and green nanocatalyst, cost‐effective and simple procedure are some notable advantages of using AgNPs as a noble metal nanocatalyst in this synthetic strategy. The structures of fused heterocycles were confirmed by their Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR), and13C‐NMR spectral data and microanalysis.
Coinfection of other respiratory pathogens and HIV in COVID‐19 patients: Is there a pattern?
Authors: Barrera‐López Pedro , Pérez‐Riveros Erika D. , Moreno‐Montoya José , Ballesteros Silvia Marcela , Valencia Sergio A. , De la Hoz‐Valle José A.
Published: July 2020

The pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐Cov‐2) has led to the elaboration of multiple studies to increase knowledge and understanding, hence, having the ability to accomplish an adequate and timely diagnosis and give an optimal treatment according to the patient's condition. The clinical manifestations of COVID‐19 pose a series of challenges both in understanding and delimiting the disease secondary to the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. This is due to the fact that the main axis of this disease is the endothelial compromise and the production of a “cytokine storm,” triggering multiple organ failure and death. Given that a complete understanding of its pathophysiology and clinical behavior has not yet been achieved, we wondered if coinfection with other respiratory viruses modifies its performance and outcomes described so far. A literature search was performed, obtaining 68 articles, of which 25 were analyzed. The analysis showed us that there is a high variety both in the types of associated infections and in the clinical behavior of patients and their outcomes. Therefore, we consider that the search for other infections should be performed exhaustively, especially in those cases that may be susceptible to treatment such as Influenza A, human immunodeficiency virus, or bacterial infections. As well as optimize the analysis of these cases and establish if there are characteristics that allow establishing the possibility of carrying an additional infection to that of SARS‐CoV‐2 and the implications for the management and prognosis of the patient.
Risk factors and outcomes of COVID‐19 in New York City; a retrospective cohort study
Authors: van Gerwen Maaike , Alsen Mathilda , Little Christine , Barlow Joshua , Genden Eric , Naymagon Leonard , Tremblay Douglas
Published: July 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a global pandemic and information on risk factors for worse prognosis is needed to accurately identify patients at risk and potentially provide insight into therapeutic options. In this retrospective cohort study, including 3703 patients with laboratory confirmed COVID‐19, we identified risk factors associated with all‐cause mortality, need for hospitalization and mechanical ventilation. Male gender was independently associated with increased risk of hospitalization (adjusted odds ratio [ORadj]: 1.62; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.38‐1.91)), mechanical ventilation (ORadj: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.08‐1.69) and death (ORadj: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.17‐1.82). Patients > 60 years had higher risk of hospitalization (ORadj: 5.47; 95% CI: 4.29‐6.96), mechanical ventilation (ORadj: 3.26; 95% CI: 2.08‐5.11) and death (ORadj: 13.04; 95% CI: 6.25‐27.24). Congestive heart failure (ORadj: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.06‐2.02) and dementia (ORadj: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.46‐2.83) were associated with increased odds of death, as well as the presence of more than two comorbidities (ORadj: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.35‐2.68). Patients with COVID‐19 of older age, male gender, or having more than two comorbidities are at higher risk of hospitalization, mechanical ventilation and death, and should therefore be closely monitored.
Newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus, DKA, and COVID‐19: Causality or coincidence? A report of three cases
Authors: Suwanwongse Kulachanya , Shabarek Nehad
Published: July 2020

Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), a 2020 pandemic, has resulted in an unexpected loss in lives, quality of life, and the economy. The COVID‐19 clinical spectrum varies from asymptomatic to death, and its complications may involve various organs. Notwithstanding, the impact of COVID‐19 on endocrine systems is understudied. Previous coronavirus outbreaks such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus can cause new‐onset diabetes mellitus (DM). However, there were only two previous case reports on newly diagnosed DM in COVID‐19 patients. Here, we described three patients who had newly diagnosed DM associated with COVID‐19. COVID‐19 likely unmasked existing DM by aggravating its metabolic complications rather than causing the new‐onset DM in these patients. However, more research is needed to evaluate if there is a casual relationship between the development of DM, DKA, and COVID‐19.
Risk factors for severe hand, foot, and mouth disease infected with Coxsackievirus A6: A hospital‐based case‐control study
Authors: Li Yanan , Xiong Tiantian , Meng Yu , Zhao Rongxian , Yu Guangqing , Liu Jian , Xiao Jinrong , Wang Ke , Wu Taishun , Wei Sheng , Huang Jiao
Published: July 2020

Coxsackievirus 6 (CV‐A6) has been emerging as another predominant serotype for severe hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in China, after the introduction of enterovirus 71 inactivated vaccine (EV71 vaccine) for 3 years. Data on the risk factors for severe HFMD infected with CV‐A6 are limited. We interviewed the caregivers to collected data on HFMD patients who sought medical care in the People's Hospital of Baoan district, Shenzhen, from 2015 to 2017. Totally, 131 severe patients were frequency‐matched by age and gender with 174 mild patients infected with CV‐A6. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to analyze the risk factors for severe CV‐A6 HFMD. The average age was 20.62 ± 14.18 months and 20.52 ± 12.76 months for severe and mild patients, respectively. Multivariate analyses indicated complications at birth (odds ratio [OR], 4.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64‐10.63), peak body temperature over 39°C (OR, 4.04; 95% CI: 2.29‐7.10) and first‐born child (OR, 2.17; 95% CI: 1.27‐3.70) increased the risk of severe HFMD infected with CV‐A6. Breastfeeding (OR, 0.52; 95% CI: 0.32‐0.87), and washing hands after playing frequently (OR, 0.58; 95% CI: 0.34‐0.97) were negatively associated with severe illness. Compared with HFMD with infection of EV‐A71, complications at birth and first‐born child were newly found to be associated with severe illness in HFMD patients infected with CV‐A6.
COVID‐19 and coagulation dysfunction in adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Jing , Yan Han , Chen Hanchuan , He Chen , Lin Chunjin , He Haoming , Zhang Sicheng , Shi Songjing , Lin Kaiyang
Published: July 2020

The outbreak of 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) has posed a grave threat to the global public health. The COVID‐19‐induced infection is closely related to coagulation dysfunction in the affected patients. This paper attempts to conduct a meta‐analysis and systematically review the blood coagulation indicators in patients with severe COVID‐19. A meta‐analysis of eligible studies was performed to compare the blood coagulation indicators in patients with severe and nonsevere COVID‐19. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies published between 1 December 2019 and 7 May 2020. A total of 13 studies with 1341 adult patients were enrolled in this analysis. Platelet (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −24.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −34.12 to −15.54; P < .001), d‐dimer (WMD = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.09‐0.29; P < .001), and fibrinogen (WMD = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.50‐1.54; P < .001) were significantly associated with the severity in patients with COVID‐19. The meta‐analysis revealed that no correlation was evident between an increased severity risk of COVID‐19 and activated partial thromboplastin time (WMD = −1.56, 95% CI: −5.77 to 2.64; P = .468) or prothrombin time (WMD = 0.19, 95% CI: −0.13 to 0.51; P = .243). The single arm meta‐analysis showed that compared with the nonsevere group, the severe group had a lower pooled platelet (165.12 [95% CI: 157.38‐172.85] vs 190.09 [95% CI: 179.45‐200.74]), higher d‐dimer (0.49 [95% CI: 0.33‐0.64] vs 0.27 [95% CI: 0.20‐0.34]), and higher fibrinogen (4.34 [95% CI: 1.98‐6.70] vs 3.19 [95% CI: 1.13‐5.24]). Coagulation dysfunction is closely related to the severity of patients with COVID‐19, in which low platelet, high d‐dimer, and fibrinogen upon admission may serve as risk indicators for increased aggression of the disease. These findings are of great clinical value for timely and effective treatment of the COVID‐19 cases.
A comparative analysis of interferons and direct‐acting antivirals on the expression of genes involved in hepatitis C pathogenesis
Authors: Farooq Mariya , Rauf Mahd , Tahir Fatima , Manzoor Sobia
Published: July 2020

The discovery of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) has revolutionized the treatment of hepatitis C worldwide. In contrast, pegylated interferon‐alpha (PEG IFN‐α), the older regimen, had limited success. However, the effect of DAAs on the expression of immunomodulatory genes involved in liver pathologies remains ambiguous. The objective of this study was to explore and contrast the effects of DAAs and PEG IFN‐α on the expression of selected immunomodulatory genes. Fifty individuals were enrolled in the study and they were divided into five categories; healthy individuals, treatment‐naive, DAAs‐responders, DAAs‐nonresponders, and interferon‐relapsers. The effect of the therapies on the expression of transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS‐3), copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD), interleukin 10 (IL‐10), and collagen type 1 was analyzed. Expression analysis of the selected genes was done through real time polymerase chain reaction. A significantly increased expression of TGF‐β was observed in the patients who received DAAs or PEG IFN‐α, which suggests that patients receiving anti‐HCV therapies are prone to developing fibrosis. Moreover, DAAs‐nonresponders had higher expression of TNF‐α, SOCS‐3, and IL‐10. The elevated expression of TNF‐α and SOCS‐3 insinuates that DAAs‐nonresponders may develop insulin resistance and steatosis in the future. Finally, in addition to TGF‐β, high expression of collagen was found in interferon relapsers, which suggests that these patients are the most susceptible to developing cirrhosis.
The dynamic changes of serum IgM and IgG against SARS‐CoV‐2 in patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Zhou Wei , Xu Xiaomao , Chang Zhigang , Wang He , Zhong Xuefeng , Tong Xunliang , Liu Taotao , Li Yanming
Published: July 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has become a worldwide pandemic since it emerged in December 2019. Previous studies have reported rapid antibody response to SARS‐CoV‐2 in the first 2 to 3 weeks after symptom onset. Here, we retrospectively described the dynamic changes of serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG specifically against SARS‐CoV‐2 in later weeks (mainly 4‐10 weeks) in 97 hospitalized patients with COVID‐19. We observed that serum IgM and IgG, especially in patients with moderate‐to‐high levels, declined significantly between week 4 to 10 after illness onset. Notably, IgG levels in high percentage of patients (77.5%, 31 of 40) rapidly declined by half, from 212.5 (range, 163.7‐420.3) to 96.3 (range, 75.0‐133.4) AU/mL, within 1 to 2 weeks in the second month and then sustained at around 100 AU/mL until discharge from hospital. Significant reduction of IgM was also observed as SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid turned negative (P = .002). In the recovery stage, serum IgG declined significantly (early vs late recovery stage, n = 16, P = .003) with a median reduction of 50.0% (range, 3.7%‐77.0%). Our results suggested that the decline of IgM may be an indicator of virus clearance and recovered patients may have a robust immunity against reinfection within at least 3 months after illness onset. Yet, the rapid reduction of IgG by half rises serious concerns on the robustness and sustainability of the humoral immune response in the period after discharge, which is crucial for immunity strategy and developing a vaccine.
Graphical enhancements to summary receiver operating characteristic plots to facilitate the analysis and reporting of meta‐analysis of diagnostic test accuracy data
Authors: Patel Amit , Cooper Nicola , Freeman Suzanne , Sutton Alex
Published: July 2020

Diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) systematic reviews are conducted to summarize evidence on the accuracy of a diagnostic test including a critical evaluation of the primary studies. Where appropriate, the evidence is meta‐analyzed to obtain pooled estimates of effectiveness.In this study, we reviewed and critiqued three DTA guidance documents with respect to the graphical presentation of DTA meta‐analysis results. All three documents recommended the use of two forms of graphical presentation: (a) forest plots displaying meta‐analysis results for sensitivity (ie, the true positive rate) and specificity (ie, true negative rate) separately, and (b) Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic (SROC) curve to provide a global summary of test performance. Two primary shortcomings were identified: (a) lack of incorporation of quality assessment results into the main analysis and; (b) ambiguity with which the contribution of individual studies is represented on SROC curves. In response, two alternative graphical approaches were developed:

A quality assessment enhanced SROC plot which displays the results from individual studies in the meta‐analysis with multiple indicators of quality assessed using QUADAS‐2; and

A percentage study weights enhanced SROC plot which accurately portrays the percentage contribution each study makes to the meta‐analysis.

The proposed enhanced SROC curves facilitate the exploration of DTA data, leading to a deeper understanding of the primary studies included in a DTA meta‐analysis including identifying reasons for between study heterogeneity and why specific study results may be divergent. Both plots can easily be produced in the free online interactive application, MetaDTA (https://crsu.shinyapps.io/dta_ma/).
Immunochromatographic assay based on time‐resolved fluorescent nanobeads for the rapid detection of sulfamethazine in egg, honey, and pork
Authors: Wang Zexiang , Hu Song , Bao Huanhuan , Xing Keyu , Liu Jintao , Xia Jun , Lai Weihua , Peng Juan
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Sulfamethazine (SMZ), a veterinary drug widely used in animal husbandry, is harmful to human health when excess residues are present in food. In this study, a fast, reliable, and sensitive immunochromatographic assay (ICA) was developed on the basis of the competitive format by using time‐resolved fluorescent nanobeads (TRFN) as label for the detection of SMZ in egg, honey, and pork samples.

RESULTS

Under optimized working conditions, this method had limits of detection of 0.016, 0.049, and 0.029 ng mL−1 and corresponding linear ranges of 0.05 to 1.00, 0.05 to 5.00, and 0.05 to 1.00 ng mL−1 in egg, honey, and pork samples, respectively. The recovery experiments showed that the average recoveries ranged from 90.5% to 113.9%, 82.4% to 112.0%, and 79.8% to 93.4% with corresponding coefficients of variation of 4.1% to 11.7%, 7.5% to 11.5%, and 4.8% to 8.7% for egg, honey, and pork samples, respectively. The developed TRFN–ICA was also systematically compared with high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) by analyzing 45 actual samples from egg, honey, and pork.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the developed TRFN–ICA had high reliability and excellent potential for the ultrasensitive detection of SMZ for food safety monitoring, also providing a universal platform for the on‐site detection of other targets. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Outcome after ex situ or ante situm liver resection with hypothermic perfusion and auto‐transplantation: A single‐centre experience in adult and paediatric patients
Authors: Schlegel Andrea , Sakuraoka Yuhki , Motwani Kanchan , Gourevitch David , Sharif Khalid , Isaac John , Almond Max , Desai Anant , Muiesan Paolo
Published: July 2020

Background

Evolving surgical technology and medical treatment have led to an expansion of indications to enable resection of large hepatic tumours with involvement of other abdominal structures.

Methods

Twelve extended liver and abdominal resections, either ex situ with auto‐transplantation of the liver remnant or ante situm with veno‐venous bypass (VVBP) were performed between 2016 and 2018. We describe our preoperative assessment, compare surgical strategies and assess outcomes.

Results

The median age of the 10 adult patients was 50.5 years with a majority suffering from sarcoma‐like tumours. The two paediatric patients were 3 and 8 years of age, both with hepatoblastoma. Two patients underwent ex situ resections with auto‐transplantation of the liver remnant, and nine patients had ante situm tumour removal with the use of VVBP in four. All patients achieved a good immediate liver function. Local infection and acute kidney injury were found in two patients. One patient underwent biliary reconstruction for bile leak. Tumour recurrence was seen in seven patients (58.3%), with four lung metastases. Five patients died from tumour recurrence (41.7%) during the follow‐up.

Conclusion

Extreme liver resections should be performed in experienced centres, where surgical subspecialties are available with access to cardiovascular support. Additionally, experience in split and living‐donor liver transplantation is beneficial.
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: The mechanobiology of differential growth
Authors: Smit Theodoor H.
Published: July 2020

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has been linked to neurological, genetic, hormonal, microbial, and environmental cues. Physically, however, AIS is a structural deformation, hence an adequate theory of etiology must provide an explanation for the forces involved. Earlier, we proposed differential growth as a possible mechanism for the slow, three‐dimensional deformations observed in AIS. In the current perspective paper, the underlying mechanobiology of cells and tissues is explored. The musculoskeletal system is presented as a tensegrity‐like structure, in which the skeletal compressive elements are stabilized by tensile muscles, ligaments, and fasciae. The upright posture of the human spine requires minimal muscular energy, resulting in less compression, and stability than in quadrupeds. Following Hueter‐Volkmann Law, less compression allows for faster growth of vertebrae and intervertebral discs. The substantially larger intervertebral disc height observed in AIS patients suggests high intradiscal pressure, a condition favorable for notochordal cells; this promotes the production of proteoglycans and thereby osmotic pressure. Intradiscal pressure overstrains annulus fibrosus and longitudinal ligaments, which are then no longer able to remodel and grow, and consequently induce differential growth. Intradiscal pressure thus is proposed as the driver of AIS and may therefore be a promising target for prevention and treatment.
Study of the reactions of OH with HCl, HBr, and HI between 298 K and 460 K
Authors: Khamaganov Victor G. , Orkin Vladimir L. , Larin Igor K.
Published: July 2020

The reactions between OH radicals and hydrogen halides (HCl, HBr, HI) have been studied between 298 and 460 K by using a discharge flow‐electron paramagnetic resonance technique. The rate constants were found to be kHCl(298 K) = (7.9 ± 1.3) × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 with a weak positive temperature dependence, kHBr (298‐460 K) = (1.04 ± 0.2) × 10−11 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, and kHI(298 K) = (3.0 ± 0.3) × 10−11 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, respectively. The homogeneous nature of these reactions has been experimentally tested.