bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usefulness of a personalized algorithm‐based discharge checklist in patients hospitalized for acute heart failure
Authors: Allain Florent , Loizeau Virginie , Chaufourier Laure , Hallouche Maya , Herrou Laurence , Hodzic Amir , Blanchart Katrien , Belin Annette , Manrique Alain , Milliez Paul , Sabatier Rémi , Legallois Damien
Published: April 2020

Aims

The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of a personalized discharge checklist (PCL) based on simple baseline characteristics on mortality, readmission for heart failure (HF), and quality of care in patients hospitalized for acute HF.

Methods and results

We designed an algorithm to generate PCL, based on 2016 HF European Society of Cardiology Guidelines and the screening of common comorbidities in elderly HF patients. We prospectively included 139 patients hospitalized for HF from May 2018 to October 2018. A PCL was fulfilled for each patient at admission and 24 to 48 hours before the planned discharge. A control cohort of 182 consecutive patients was retrospectively included from May 2017 to October 2017. The primary composite endpoint was mortality or readmission for HF at 6 months. The secondary endpoints were mortality, readmission for HF, and quality of care (evidence‐based medications, management of HF comorbidities, and planned care plan). There was no difference among baseline characteristics between PCL and control cohorts; mean age was 78.1 ± 12.2 vs. 79.0 ± 12.5 years old (P = 0.46) and 61 patients (43.9%) vs. 63 (34.6%) had HF with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40% (P = 0.24). During the 6 month follow‐up period, 59 patients (42.4%) reached the primary endpoint in the PCL cohort vs. 92 patients (50.5%) in the control cohort [hazard ratio (HR): 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.57–1.09), P = 0.15]. Subgroup analysis including only patients with either altered (<40%) or mid‐range or preserved (≥40%) LVEF showed no significant difference among groups. There was a non‐significant trend toward a reduction in HF readmission rate in the PCL group [38 patients (27.3%) vs. 64 patients (35.2%), HR: 0.73, 95%CI (0.49–1.09), P = 0.13]. There was no difference regarding survival or the use of evidence‐based medications. A higher proportion of patients were screened and treated for iron and vitamin D deficiencies (53.2% vs. 35.7%, P < 0.01 and 73.4% vs. 29.7%, P < 0.01, respectively), as well as malnutrition supplemented in the PCL group. There was a higher referral to HF follow‐up programme in the PCL group but not to telemedicine or cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Conclusions

In this preliminary study, the use of a PCL did not improve outcomes at 6 months in patients hospitalized for acute HF. There was a non‐significant trend towards a reduction in HF readmission rate in the PCL group. In addition, the management of HF comorbidities was significantly improved by PCL with a better referral to follow‐up programme. A multicentre study is warranted to assess the usefulness of a simple costless personalized checklist in a large HF patients' population.
Modification of clayware ceramic membrane for enhancing the performance of microbial fuel cell
Authors: Suransh Jain , Tiwari Alok Kumar , Mungray Arvind Kumar
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to develop an economically viable clayware ceramic membrane that exhibits proton mass transfer comparable to the commercially available membrane (Nafion 117) for microbial fuel cell (MFC). The clayware ceramic membrane made from red soil was modified using cation exchangers like montmorillonite (MMT) and vermiculite (VC), and by spray coating of MMT composite with Nafion solution. Nafion‐117 (a commercial membrane) and membrane prepared using only red soil were used as a standard and control, respectively. Other membranes include 20% blend of MMT with red soil (SM); 20% VC with red soil (SV); 10% blend of each MMT and VC with red soil (SMV); and SM membrane spray‐coated with Nafion solution (SMN). The addition of cation exchangers enhances the performance of the clayware ceramic membranes as compared to the control, and coating of Nafion solution on SMN leads it to perform even better. Average open circuit voltage and average operating voltage for the SMN membranes were 670 ± 17.63 mV and 82 ± 5.69 mV, respectively, which are the best among all the fabricated membranes. The power density of the SMN membrane was 84.3 mW/m3 which is five times that of the control. The study demonstrates that SMN membrane can be used as an alternate for more costly polymeric membranes in MFC.
Energetic and economic analysis of a new integrated collector storage with honeycomb transparent insulation (ICSHTI)
Authors: Messaouda Anis , Hamdi Mohamed , Hazami Majdi , Guizani Amen Allah
Published: April 2020

This paper deals with both energetic and economic studies of a new integrated collector storage with honeycomb transparent insulation (ICSHTI) which was conceived, developed, and tested in the Research and Technology Centre of Energy (CRTEn), Tunisia. Experimental and numerical studies were performed in order to evaluate the thermal and the economic performances of the new solar collector configuration. Investigations are based on the daily efficiency, the heat loss coefficient and the long‐term performances. The results showed that the ICSHTI presents a mean daily efficiency around 51.60% and a heat loss coefficient equal to 5.51 W/m2K. Results also showed that the energy loaded from the ICSHTI is about 4,669 MJ which represents about 57% of the total domestic hot water (DHW) needs by considering only solar energy. By considering different scenarios of climatic conditions, TRNSYS and SOLO investigations showed that the average solar fraction is about 67 and 28% in hot and cold regions, respectively. To evaluate the feasibility of integrating the ICSHTI in local market, a comparison against the most commercialized DHW systems namely the flat‐plate solar collector (FPC) was conducted. The results showed that the FPC is more economical than the ICSHTI with a yearly economy YOER and a payback period PT equal to 120.2 US$/year and 12 years for the FPC and 102.3 US$/year and 14.3 years for the ICSHTI when we considered the PT based on electric water heater. However, when we considered a PT based on gas water heater, the ICSHTI system becomes more economical than the FPCDHW with a PT equal to 18.5 years and 20.5 years, for the two systems, respectively.
Theoretical study on stability of mine ventilation network based on sensitivity analysis
Authors: Jia Jinzhang , Jia Peng , Li Zhuang
Published: April 2020

A mine ventilation system is a large and complex system. Its stability is affected by many factors, and wind resistance change is one of the common influencing factors. In order to study the influence of branch wind resistance changes on the branch air volume and the stability of the ventilation system, this paper introduced the concept of sensitivity, constructing a mathematical model of the influence of branch wind resistance changes on air volume. Based on the model, the sensitivity of each branch can be calculated, the sensitivity matrix can be constructed, and the influence of the branch wind resistance change on the air volume change can be quantitatively expressed. The sensitivity matrix can be used to analyze the stability of the mine ventilation system and can be used as an indicator of the optimization and comparison of the ventilation system. The branch with the most influence and the most affected degree in the ventilation system can be obtained, so the sensitivity matrix can accurately determine the best branches to raise resistance (or reduce resistance). This study can guide the design and optimization of mine ventilation systems.
Demonstrating adequate safety for a concrete column exposed to fire, using probabilistic methods
Authors: Van Coile Ruben , Hopkin Danny , Elhami‐Khorasani Negar , Gernay Thomas
Published: April 2020

Demonstrating adequate safety for exceptional designs and new design applications requires an explicit evaluation of the safety level, considering the uncertainties associated with the design parameters. The recently published PD 7974‐7:2019 provides five routes to demonstrate adequate safety through probabilistic methods but does not include worked examples. The case study in this paper presents three state‐of‐the‐art approaches for demonstrating achievement of an absolute safety target (acceptance concept “AC3” in PD 7974‐7:2019) for a concrete column in an office building with stringent reliability requirements, specified on the level of individual members and with respect to a standardized heating regime. The case study shows how fragility curves listed by, for example, industry organizations can support probabilistic approaches and a more comprehensive understanding of design performance.
Bioactivity‐guided isolation of anti‐inflammatory components from Phyllanthus emblica
Authors: Li Wei , Zhu Hua‐wei , Chen Yun‐jiao , Xiao Hang , Ge Ya‐zhong , Hu Hai‐e , Li Xue‐li , Cao Yong
Published: April 2020

Phyllanthus emblica (P. emblica) is a traditionally edible fruit that is good for treatment of biliary diseases, bronchitis, etc. It has obvious anti‐inflammatory activity, but few studies focus on its anti‐inflammatory active substance basis. The purpose of this study was to explore the material basis of anti‐inflammatory activity of P. emblica, purify, and identify anti‐inflammatory active monomers. Fisetin and gallic acid, which were identified after separation from ethanol extract components of P. emblica, exhibited the best anti‐inflammatory effects, markedly inhibiting nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokine levels in LPS‐stimulated macrophages. In particular, fisetin with significant anti‐inflammatory activity was firstly identified from P. emblica. For the first time, our research systematically revealed the material basis of the anti‐inflammatory effects of P. emblica from the perspective of the composition of the bioactive substances and provided scientific research methods and ideas for researching bioactive monomers in other plant extracts.
NTRKtesting: First results of theQuiP‐EQAscheme and a comprehensive map ofNTRKfusion variants and their diagnostic coverage by targetedRNA‐basedNGSassays
Authors: Kirchner Martina , Glade Julia , Lehmann Ulrich , Merkelbach‐Bruse Sabine , Hummel Michael , Lehmann Annika , Trautmann Marcel , Kumbrink Jörg , Jung Andreas , Dietmaier Wolfgang , Endris Volker , Kazdal Daniel , Ploeger Carolin , Evert Matthias , Horst David , Kreipe Hans , Kirchner Thomas , Wardelmann Eva , Büttner Reinhard , Weichert Wilko , Dietel Manfred , Schirmacher Peter , Stenzinger Albrecht , Pfarr Nicole
Published: April 2020

Gene fusions involving the three neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase genesNTRK1,NTRK2, orNTRK3were identified as oncogenic drivers in many cancer types. Two small molecule inhibitors have been tested in clinical trials recently and require the detection of aNTRKfusion gene prior to therapeutic application. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and targeted next‐generation sequencing (tNGS) assays are commonly used for diagnostic profiling of gene fusions. In the presented study we applied an external quality assessment (EQA) scheme in order to investigate the suitability of FISH and RNA‐/DNA‐based tNGS for detection ofNTRKfusions in a multinational and multicentric ring trial. In total 27 participants registered for this study. Nine institutions took part in the FISH‐based and 18 in the NGS‐based round robin test, the latter additionally subdivided into low‐input and high‐input NGS methods (regarding nucleic acid input). Regardless of the testing method applied, all participants received tumor sections of 10 formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks for in situ hybridization or RNA/DNA extraction, and the results were submitted via an online questionnaire. For FISH testing, eight of nine (88.8%) participants, and for NGS‐based testing 15 of 18 (83.3%) participants accomplished the round robin test successfully. The overall high success rate demonstrates that FISH‐ and tNGS‐basedNTRKtesting can be well established in a routine diagnostic setting. Complementing this dataset, we provide an updated in silico analysis on the coverage of more than 150NTRKfusion variants by several commercially available RNA‐based tNGS panels.
Parametric study and optimisation of hot K2CO3‐based post‐combustion CO2 capture from a coal‐fired power plant
Authors: Ayittey Foster Kofi , Saptoro Agus , Kumar Perumal , Wong Mee Kee
Published: April 2020

Detailed parametric analyses on a post‐combustion carbon dioxide (CO2) capture system using a hot potassium carbonate solution was completed using a rate‐based simulation study. The system was simulated in Aspen Plus® V10, adopting the electrolyte non‐random two‐liquid property package. A base case study of the system was validated using literature data. Parametric analyses were then performed to study the effect of vital system parameters on CO2 capture rate and stripper reboiler duty. These system parameters include: (i) reflux ratio of stripping column (ii) lean solvent flowrate (iii) flue gas flowrate (iv) lean solvent concentration (v) lean solvent temperature (vi) flue gas temperature and (vii) absorber operating pressure. Changes in the lean solvent concentration (from 25 to 45 wt%) and absorber operating pressure (from 0.5 to 2.5 MPa) were observed to have the most significant effects on the overall performance of the capture system. Increasing both parameters showed substantial declines in the reboiler duty and resulted in remarkable increases in the corresponding carbon capture levels, and vice versa. The performance of various packing types in the absorber and stripper columns were also studied. Among the packing types examined, Flexipac Koch Metal 1Y was observed to yield the best system performance. The results from the parametric analyses were used to propose an optimised model that was able to improve carbon removal rate by 12.61% and decreased stripper reboiler duty by 14.86%. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From a deep learning model back to the brain—Identifying regional predictors and their relation to aging
Authors: Levakov Gidon , Rosenthal Gideon , Shelef Ilan , Raviv Tammy Riklin , Avidan Galia
Published: April 2020

We present a Deep Learning framework for the prediction of chronological age from structural magnetic resonance imaging scans. Previous findings associate increased brain age with neurodegenerative diseases and higher mortality rates. However, the importance of brain age prediction goes beyond serving as biomarkers for neurological disorders. Specifically, utilizing convolutional neural network (CNN) analysis to identify brain regions contributing to the prediction can shed light on the complex multivariate process of brain aging. Previous work examined methods to attribute pixel/voxel‐wise contributions to the prediction in a single image, resulting in “explanation maps” that were found noisy and unreliable. To address this problem, we developed an inference scheme for combining these maps across subjects, thus creating a population‐based, rather than a subject‐specific map. We applied this method to a CNN ensemble trained on predicting subjects' age from raw T1 brain images in a lifespan sample of 10,176 subjects. Evaluating the model on an untouched test set resulted in mean absolute error of 3.07 years and a correlation between chronological and predicted age of r = 0.98. Using the inference method, we revealed that cavities containing cerebrospinal fluid, previously found as general atrophy markers, had the highest contribution for age prediction. Comparing maps derived from different models within the ensemble allowed to assess differences and similarities in brain regions utilized by the model. We showed that this method substantially increased the replicability of explanation maps, converged with results from voxel‐based morphometry age studies and highlighted brain regions whose volumetric variability correlated the most with the prediction error.
Contemporary considerations in adjuvant radioiodine treatment of adults with differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Juweid Malik E. , Tulchinsky Mark , Mismar Ayman , Momani Munther , Zayed Ayman A. , Al Hawari Hussam , Albsoul Nader , Mottaghy Felix M.
Published: April 2020

Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is the most common endocrine malignancy with a growing incidence worldwide. The initial conventional management is surgery, followed by consideration of 131I treatment that includes three options. These are termed remnant ablation (targeting benign thyroid remnant), adjuvant (targeting presumed microscopic DTC) and known disease (targeting macroscopic DTC) treatments. Some experts mostly rely on clinicopathologic assessment for recurrence risk to select patients for the 131I treatment. Others, in addition, apply radioiodine imaging to guide their treatment planning, termed theranostics (aka theragnostics or radiotheragnostics). In patients with low‐risk DTC, remnant ablation rather than adjuvant treatment is generally recommended and, in this setting, the ATA recommends a low 131I activity. 131I adjuvant treatment is universally recommended in patients with high‐risk DTC (a primary tumor of any size with gross extrathyroidal extension) and is generally recommended in intermediate‐risk DTC (primary tumor >4 cm in diameter, locoregional metastases, microscopic extrathyroidal extension, aggressive histology or vascular invasion). The optimal amount of 131I activity for adjuvant treatment is controversial, but experts reached a consensus that the 131I activity should be greater than that for remnant ablation. The main obstacles to establishing timely evidence through randomized clinical trials for 131I therapy include years‐to‐decades delay in recurrence and low disease‐specific mortality. This mini‐review is intended to update oncologists on the most recent clinical, pathologic, laboratory and imaging variables, as well as on the current 131I therapy‐related definitions and management paradigms, which should optimally equip them for individualized patient guidance and treatment.
Capillary glucose concentration during oral glucose tolerance test for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes
Authors: García‐Claver Ainoha , Ramos‐Corral Raquel , Laviña‐Fañanás Concepción , Solans‐Blecua Isabel , Puzo‐Foncillas José
Published: April 2020

Objective

To assess concordance between two point‐of‐care testing (POCT) devices and the standard laboratory method in screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in Huesca.

Methods

Pregnant women who met criteria for an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and attended the laboratory between October 2017 and November 2018 were recruited in this prospective observational study. Glucose was measured in venous (laboratory) and capillary blood (Accu‐Chek or Contour Next glucometers). GDM was diagnosed attending to NDDG criteria for venous samples or capillary‐specific cut‐off. Linear regression, Passing–Bablok, Bland–Altman, and the kappa coefficient were used to study concordance between POCT and laboratory method.

Results

Data from 109 women were analyzed (57 for Accu‐Chek, 52 for Contour Next). Statistical analyses showed good agreement between both POCT and laboratory method. There were no statistical differences in fasting glucose measurements between capillary and venous samples and both POCT devices meet the ISO 15197 standard. Accu‐Chek showed good agreement (k=0.629) regarding the laboratory method in classifying GDM, with an acceptable inter‐evaluator bias of 3.5% (P<0.001).

Conclusion

POCT can be used to obtain fasting values and reduce overall waiting times for patients. Additionally, Accu‐Chek can be used to diagnose GDM in remote areas applying specific cut‐off values.
The relationship between romantic and prenatal maternal attachment: The moderating role of social support
Authors: Ponti Lucia , Smorti Martina , Ghinassi Simon , Tani Franca
Published: April 2020

The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between three types of maternal attachment bonds: anxious romantic, avoidant romantic and prenatal. The moderating role of perceived social support is also analysed. Ninety‐one pregnant women in or near their thirtieth week of gestation (M = 29.59; SD = 4.57) were recruited, all of whom completed a series of questionnaires to assess the quality of their romantic and prenatal attachment bonds and their levels of perceived social support. The results reveal that both anxious and avoidant romantic attachments were significantly associated with low levels of maternal prenatal attachment. Moreover, the level of social support perceived during pregnancy moderated the relationship between anxious and prenatal attachments but had no effect on avoidant romantic and prenatal attachments. Our discussion of these findings considers the emotional and behavioural characteristics of various forms of insecure romantic attachments. Overall, the data highlight the relevance of the quality of intimate close relationships on maternity experiences and women's caregiving abilities.
Stabilization of elongated polyglutamine tracts by a helical peptide derived from N‐terminal huntingtin
Authors: Sethi Ratnika , Roy Ipsita
Published: April 2020

In Huntington's disease, the length of the polyglutamine tract in the mutant protein correlates positively with the formation of aggregates and disease symptoms and severity of the disease. Some disease‐modifying factors exist. However, no organized study has been carried out to investigate the effect of polyglutamine length in the mutant protein on the efficacy of a therapeutic strategy. We had shown earlier that the helical peptide arising out of the N‐terminal stretch of normal huntingtin is able to inhibit aggregation of a number of proteins, including luciferase, α‐synuclein, p53, and Rnq1. In this work, we show that polyglutamine stretches of differing lengths, namely 51Q, 72Q, and 103Q, form a mixture of aggregates at different rates, with the rate increasing in a polyQ length‐dependent manner. The helical peptide is able to inhibit the rate of aggregation. The extent of inhibition was different when measuring either total aggregation or only fibrillar aggregates, suggesting that the helical peptide with benign polyQ stretch alters the aggregation landscape of different elongated polyQ lengths differently. Our results suggest that designing a therapeutic approach to inhibit protein aggregation must take note of polyQ length of the protein.
In vitro long‐term repeated exposure and exposure switching of a novel tobacco vapor product in a human organotypic culture of bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Ito Shigeaki , Matsumura Kazushi , Ishimori Kanae , Ishikawa Shinkichi
Published: April 2020

Next‐generation tobacco products and nicotine delivery systems such as heat‐not‐burn tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, the usage of which is expected to have a beneficial impact on public health, have gained popularity over the past decade. However, the risks associated with the long‐term use of such products are still incompletely understood. Although the risks of these products should be clarified through epidemiological studies, such studies are normally performed based on each product category, not product‐by‐product. Therefore, investigation of the risk on a product‐by‐product basis is important to provide specific scientific evidence. In the current study, we performed the 40‐day repeated exposure of in vitro human bronchial epithelial tissues to cigarette smoke (CS) or vapor from our proprietary novel tobacco vapor product (NTV). In addition, tissue samples exposed to CS were switched to NTV or CS exposure was stopped at 20 days to reflect a situation where smokers switched to NTV or ceased to smoke. All tissue samples were assessed in terms of toxicity, inflammation and transcriptomic alterations. Tissue samples switched to NTV and the cessation of exposure samples showed recovery from CS‐induced damage although there was a time‐course difference. Moreover, repeated exposure to NTV produced negligible effects on the tissue samples while CS produced cumulative effects. Our results suggest that the use of NTV, including switching to NTV from cigarette smoking, has fewer effects on bronchial epithelial tissues than continuing smoking.
Impact of exosome‐loaded chitosan hydrogel in wound repair and layered dermal reconstitution in mice animal model
Authors: Nooshabadi Vajihe Taghdiri , Khanmohamadi Mehdi , Valipour Elahe , Mahdipour Shadi , Salati Amir , Malekshahi Ziba Veisi , Shafei Shilan , Amini Elahe , Farzamfar Saeed , Ai Jafar
Published: April 2020

Combat or burn injuries are associated with a series of risks, such as microbial infection, an elevated level of inflammatory response, and pathologic scar tissue formation, which significantly postpone wound healing and also lead to impaired repair. Skin engineering for wound healing requires a biomimetic dressing substrate with ideal hydrophilicity, holding antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In addition, available bioactive specification is required to reduce scar formation, stimulate angiogenesis, and improve wound repair. In this study, we successfully fabricated chitosan (Ch)–based hydrogel enriched with isolated exosome (EXO) from easy‐accessible stem cells, which could promote fibroblast cell migration and proliferation in vitro. Full‐thickness excisional wound model was used to investigate the in vivo dermal substitution ability of the fabricated hydrogel composed Ch and EXO substrates. Our finding confirmed that the wounds covered with Ch scaffold containing isolated EXO have nearly 83.6% wound closure ability with a high degree of re‐epithelialization, whereas sterile gauze showed 51.5% of reduction in wound size. In summary, obtained results imply that Ch‐glycerol‐EXO hydrogel construct can be utilized at the full‐thickness skin wound substitution and skin tissue engineering.
Development of an extracellular matrix‐enriched gelatin sponge for liver wound dressing
Authors: Wang Bo , Johnson Alexia , Li Wuwei
Published: April 2020

Gelatin, as a common hemostatic agent, has been processed into a variety of forms for clinical applications. To enhance wound healing and reduce postoperative complications after liver trauma or surgery, naturally‐derived materials can be incorporated into gelatin to improve its physical and biological properties. In this study, we developed an extracellular matrix (ECM) enriched gelatin (EG) sponge through combining liver ECM digestion and gelatin at different proportions. By increasing the gelatin concentration, the EG sponge exhibited reduced porous structure, lower water absorption rate, superior degradation resistant, and higher elastic modulus, whereas, by increasing the ECM concentration, the porous structure and swelling ratio of the EG sponge were significantly improved. We tested the in vivo response of EG sponge for liver parenchyma wound repair as compared with the ECM‐only or gelatin‐only sponges. Liver wound repaired with the gelatin‐only sponge exhibited a severe inflammation and tissue adhesion. In contrast, both ECM‐only and EG sponges repaired liver wound showed desired biocompatibility as evidenced by a smooth liver surface, reduced wound size, earlier material absorption, and accelerated liver regeneration. In conclusion, the properly designed EG sponge is a more effective and safer topical hemostatic agent than the traditional gelatin sponge for repairing liver injury.
Antibacterial graphene‐based hydroxyapatite/chitosan coating with gentamicin for potential applications in bone tissue engineering
Authors: Stevanović Milena , Djošić Marija , Janković Ana , Kojić Vesna , Vukašinović‐Sekulić Maja , Stojanović Jovica , Odović Jadranka , Crevar Sakač Milkica , Kyong Yop Rhee , Mišković‐Stanković Vesna
Published: April 2020

Electrophoretic deposition process (EPD) was successfully used for obtaining graphene (Gr)‐reinforced composite coating based on hydroxyapatite (HAP), chitosan (CS), and antibiotic gentamicin (Gent), from aqueous suspension. The deposition process was performed as a single step process at a constant voltage (5 V, deposition time 12 min) on pure titanium foils. The influence of graphene was examined through detailed physicochemical and biological characterization. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, Raman, and X‐ray photoelectron analyses confirmed the formation of composite HAP/CS/Gr and HAP/CS/Gr/Gent coatings on Ti. Obtained coatings had porous, uniform, fracture‐free surfaces, suggesting strong interfacial interaction between HAP, CS, and Gr. Large specific area of graphene enabled strong bonding with chitosan, acting as nanofiller throughout the polymer matrix. Gentamicin addition strongly improved the antibacterial activity of HAP/CS/Gr/Gent coating that was confirmed by antibacterial activity kinetics in suspension and agar diffusion testing, while results indicated more pronounced antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus (bactericidal, viable cells number reduction >3 logarithmic units) compared to Escherichia coli (bacteriostatic, <3 logarithmic units). MTT assay indicated low cytotoxicity (75% cell viability) against MRC‐5 and L929 (70% cell viability) tested cell lines, indicating good biocompatibility of HAP/CS/Gr/Gent coating. Therefore, electrodeposited HAP/CS/Gr/Gent coating on Ti can be considered as a prospective material for bone tissue engineering as a hard tissue implant.
Bilobalide assuages morphine‐induced addiction in hippocampal neuron cells through upregulation of microRNA‐101
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhai Hongyin
Published: April 2020

Bilobalide exhibits many biological activities, but its effects on morphine stimulation have not been elucidated. The research aims to explore the function and underlying mechanisms of bilobalide in morphine‐led hippocampal neuron cells. Cells were treated with or without morphine or oxaliplatin (OXA), bilobalide, or SCH772984 dilutions. miR‐101 inhibitor and negative control were transfected into cells. Western blot and quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction were, respectively, conducted to measure the relative expression of proteins or RNAs. Morphine improved the expression levels of orexin1 receptor (OX1R) and c‐FOS, the p/t‐ERK/PKC as well. The c‐FOS protein level and p/t‐ERK/PKC were significantly elevated by morphine + OXA. Bilobalide had no effect on OX1R and p/t‐PKC but evidently decreased the c‐FOS and p/t‐ERK. The p‐ERK and the c‐FOS accumulation levels were remarkably reduced by SCH772984. The production of miR‐101 was promoted by bilobalide but inhibited by the miR‐101 inhibitor. miR‐101 inhibitor abolished bilobalide's inhibitory effects on p/t‐ERK. Bilobalide exhibited morphine‐induced effects on hippocampal neuron cells by upregulating miR‐101.
An examination of dysfunctional attitudes and extreme response styles as predictors of relapse in guided internet‐based cognitive behavioral therapy for depression
Authors: Ezawa Iony D. , Forand Nicholas R. , Strunk Daniel R.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Internet‐based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) is an effective treatment option for depression, but its long‐term effects are not well understood. We investigate for whom iCBT may have more enduring effects by evaluating dysfunctional attitudes as predictors of relapse.

Methods

The sample consists of 31 iCBT responders (20 women, average age 31.6) who were followed for 1 year.

Results

Higher Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale scores predicted higher risk of relapse (hazard ratio = 1.98). This relation remained significant when controlling for high style (dysfunctional) or content (functional) responses. Having relatively more positive extreme responses on style rather than content items did not predict risk of relapse.

Conclusions

Our results were consistent with the value of differentiating an extreme style of responding from otherwise endorsing belief in dysfunctional attitudes. Research that refines our understanding of patients' individual risk for relapse has the potential to inform how treatment might be individually tailored.
An alumina‐coated UiO‐66 nanocrystalline solid superacid with high acid density as a catalyst for ethyl levulinate synthesis
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Yuan Hong
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The zirconium‐containing metal–organic framework (MOF) UiO‐66 was used as a cell to synthesize SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3, a high‐density superacid with relatively strong Brønsted acidity. The UiO‐66 MOF was first coated with alumina to form ZrO2@Al2O3. Impregnation with ammonium sulfate and calcination at 500 °C afforded the bimetallic composite solid superacid SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3.

RESULTS

Scanning and transmission electron microscopy images confirmed that UiO‐66 was successfully coated with aluminium oxide, and its octahedral structure and uniform size (400–600 nm) were retained. SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3 had a Brunauer–Emmett–Teller specific surface area of 301–330 m2 g−1 and average pore diameter of 9.6–10.7 nm. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared analysis showed that SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3 contained S6+ and Al3+. Temperature‐programmed ammonia desorption analysis showed that SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3 contained super‐strong acid sites. The total volume of desorbed ammonia reached 90–109 cm3 g−1. Infrared spectra of adsorbed pyridine indicated that SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3 contained mainly Lewis acid sites and was relatively rich in Brønsted acid sites. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the thermal stability of SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3 was high.

CONCLUSIONS

SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3‐3M (the impregnation concentration of ammonium sulfate was 3 mol L−1) and glucose were used to synthesize ethyl levulinate (EL) in ethanol. The highest EL yield of 37.5 mol% was obtained after reacting the mixture at 200 °C for 5 h. An EL yield of 28.8 mol% was obtained after four consecutive reuses of the SO42−/ZrO2@Al2O3‐3M catalyst. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Potential of live pathogen vaccines for defeating the COVID‐19 pandemic: History and mechanism
Authors: Chen Ji‐Wang , Chen Ji‐Ming
Published: April 2020

The whole world has entered a terrible crisis with a huge and increasing number of human deaths and economic losses in fighting the pandemic of COVID‐19 caused by the novel coronavirus termed SARS‐CoV‐2. The live pathogen vaccine (LPV) strategy, which originated in ancient China for fighting smallpox, has been applied successfully by US military recruits for decades to control acute respiratory diseases caused by types 4 and 7 adenoviruses. This strategy has also been widely employed in veterinary medicine. These facts suggest a fast way out of the current pandemic crisis, namely that SARS‐CoV‐2 could be directly used as a live vaccine. Beyond the two traditional mechanisms to guarantee the LPV's safety (the LPV seed strain is properly selected; the LPV is inoculated bypassing the respiratory sites of pathology), three novel mechanisms to further ensure the LPV's safety are available (the virus replication is inhibited with early use of an antiviral drug; symptomatic LPV recipients are cured with convalescent plasma; the LPV is inoculated in the hot season). This LPV strategy has multiple potential advantages over other options and could reduce morbidity and mortality greatly as well as the economic loss caused by the pandemic. The safety and efficacy of this strategy should be investigated strictly using animal experiments and clinical trials, and even if the experiments and trials all support the strategy, it should be implemented with enough caution.
Teachers’ Perceptions of Students’ Creativity in China’s Classrooms: The Role of Students’ Academic Achievement and Misbehaviors
Authors: Guo Jiajun , Tong Yao , Pang Weiguo
Published: April 2020

Teachers can be biased, especially toward low achievers and students with behavioral issues. However, creative students often appear to be disruptive in the classroom, and many of them struggle academically. The purpose of the present study was to examine the extent to which teachers’ perceptions of students’ creativity is associated with students’ academic achievement and classroom (mis)behaviors, as well as to examine the interaction between these two factors. Three hundred and fifty‐four eighth‐grade students selected from five middle schools in China participated in this study. Using achievement scores, peer nominations, a divergent thinking test, a self‐rated ideational behavior scale, and teacher ratings, the present study found that, whereas creativity has no significant relationship with teachers’ perceptions, academic achievements and misbehavior are significantly associated within structors’ perceptions. The achievement bias resulted in the underestimation of low achievers’ creativity, even when the low achievers were highly creative. More nuances emerged when student misbehaviors were considered. Specifically, misbehaving low achievers’ originality was further underestimated even when they were highly original. In contrast, teachers overestimated well‐behaved high achievers’ creativity, even when the students comprised the lowest creativity group. The results are further discussed from a socio‐cultural perspective.
Common institutional investors and supplier performance in supply chains
Authors: Cheung Yan‐Leung , Haw In‐Mu , Hu Bingbing , Swink Morgan , Zhang Wenlan
Published: April 2020

We investigate how common institutional investors (CIIs) in supply chains affect supplier performance. Social network theory suggests that buyer–supplier relationships are influenced by networks of ties in which they are embedded. While prior research has concentrated on networks of trade interactions, we instead examine the influences of networks through common investors. Utilizing a large sample of buyer–supplier relationships, we find that the presence of CIIs improves suppliers' operating and market performance, especially for suppliers with greater dependence on buyers. In addition, supplier performance increases with the common ownership stakes held by CIIs, but decreases with the asymmetric ownership stakes of CIIs across supply chain partners. We find that better financial collaboration between the partners appears to be a mechanism through which CIIs enhance supplier performance. Lastly, we find that the role of CIIs in strengthening supplier performance is distinct from that of direct equity links. Collectively, our findings highlight a novel role of indirect cross‐ownership in fostering supply chain collaboration and coordinating vertical relationships and, in turn, improving supplier performance.
1,3,5‐Triethynylbenzene and melamine as monomers to synthesize three‐dimensional network porous aromatic frameworks based silica/florisil for determination of carbendazim and thiabendazole in spinach
Authors: Sun Liping , Wang Sufang , Zhu Tao
Published: April 2020

In this study, the new and efficient three‐dimensional network porous aromatic frameworks materials called Silica‐PAFs‐a, Florisil‐PAFs‐a, Silica‐PAFs‐b, and Florisil‐PAFs‐b were first synthesized. The properties of materials were analyzed by five characterization methods. The materials were used as adsorbents in pipette‐tip solid‐phase extraction for the effective determination of carbendazim and thiabendazole in spinach sample. Meanwhile, the obtained materials were tested by static adsorption and dynamic adsorption. The result showed that the specific surface area of materials greatly increased after introducing three‐dimensional network porous aromatic frameworks. Microstructural modification exposed a large number of amino reactive groups that made them have a better adsorption amount for the two targets. The calibration graphs of carbendazim and thiabendazole in methanol were linear over 0.10–300.0 µg/mL, and the limits of detection and quantification were 0.00546 and 0.0182 µg/mL, and 0.00741 and 0.0247µg/mL respectively. A reliable analytical method was developed for recognition targets in spinach sample by Silica‐PAFs‐b with satisfactory extraction recoveries (96.25 and 100.51%). The proposed method using the material was applied for trace analysis of the carbendazim and thiabendazole residue.
Value of High‐Frequency Ultrasound in Accurate Staging of Mycosis Fungoides/Sézary Syndrome
Authors: Wang Yukun , Niu Zihan , Liu Jie , Zhu Qingli , Liu Zhaorui , Liu Yuehua , Jin Hongzhong
Published: April 2020

Objectives

This study was aimed to assess the ultrasound (US) characteristics of mycosis fungoides (MF)/Sézary syndrome (SS) and explore the value of high‐frequency US in accuracy staging for classic mycosis fungoides (cMF).

Methods

A prospective study was designed. Twenty‐six patients with histopathologically confirmed MF or SS were enrolled to undergo HF‐US examinations. Both 50‐ and 20‐MHz US images of the most prominent lesion of each patient were collected by a cutaneous diagnostic US system, and the US characteristics in different stages were analyzed by 2 physicians independently. The Fisher exact test was used for the statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 26 patients underwent this study, including 23 with cMF, 2 with folliculotropic mycosis fungoides (FMF), and 1 with SS. Among cMF, 16 patients with patches or plaques (the early‐stage group) showed a subepidermal low‐echogenic band, and only 3 lesions in the plaque stage partially extended to the superficial dermis. Seven patients with tumors (the advanced‐stage group) showed lesions that infiltrated to the deep dermis or subcutaneous tissue. The infiltration depth (P < .001), clarity of the boundary (P = .002), and homogeneity of internal echoes (P = .001) were significantly different between the early and advanced stages. Additionally, the 2 FMF lesions and 1 SS lesion had characteristic manifestations, showing a well‐defined subepidermal low‐echogenic band with patchy hypoechoic regions around the hair follicles in the dermis.

Conclusions

High‐frequency US can be used to accurately detect the infiltration depth and morphologic features of MF/SS lesions and provide important information for tumor staging of cMF. Additionally, the characteristic US features in FMF and SS might be helpful for diagnosis.
Theoretical and Kinetic Analysis of the Esterification of Undecylenic Acid with Glycerol
Authors: Fabre Jean‐François , Boussambe Gildas Nyame Mendendy , Valentin Romain , Mouloungui Zéphirin
Published: April 2020

The synthesis of undecylenic acid partial esters can be performed at mild temperature with a classical esterification reaction catalyzed by dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid (DBSA). A semi‐empirical molecular modeling on the different reaction intermediates indicates that DBSA can strongly decrease their heats of formation through hydrogen bonding. Diester formation seems to be thermodynamically favored with a selectivity for alpha, alpha, or alpha, beta forms that depend on the geometry of the catalyst‐intermediate configuration. Triesters are not favored but a high selectivity for monoesters requires a kinetic control. Experimental approach, considering different DBSA concentrations and temperature partially confirms the theoretical predictions but surfactant properties of DBSA and monoesters may induce nonpredicted geometries. Global apparent activation energies are calculated, corresponding to the formation and hydrolysis of mono and diesters. If water trapping allows the decrease of hydrolysis reaction constants, the presence of water and subsequent phase separation may explain differences between theoretical and experimental results and could help increasing monoester selectivity.
Heterologous expression of the gene for chlorite dismutase from Ideonella dechloratans is induced by an FNR‐type transcription factor
Authors: Rova Maria , Hellberg Lindqvist Miriam , Goetelen Thijs , Blomqvist Shady , Nilsson Thomas
Published: April 2020

Regulation of the expression of the gene for chlorite dismutase (cld), located on the chlorate reduction composite transposon of the chlorate reducer Ideonella dechloratans, was studied. A 200 bp upstream sequence of the cld gene, and mutated and truncated versions thereof, was used in a reporter system in Escherichia coli. It was found that a sequence within this upstream region, which is nearly identical to the canonical FNR‐binding sequence of E. coli, is necessary for anaerobic induction of the reporter gene. Anaerobic induction was regained in an FNR‐deficient strain of E. coli when supplemented either with the fnr gene from E. coli or with a candidate fnr gene cloned from I. dechloratans. In vivo transcription of the suggested fnr gene of I. dechloratans was demonstrated by qRT‐PCR. Based on these results, the cld promoter of I. dechloratans is suggested to be a class II‐activated promoter regulated by an FNR‐type protein of I. dechloratans. No fnr‐type genes have been found on the chlorate reduction composite transposon of I. dechloratans, making anaerobic upregulation of the cld gene after a gene transfer event dependent on the presence of an fnr‐type gene in the recipient.
ARNT‐dependent CCR8 reprogrammed LDH isoform expression correlates with poor clinical outcomes of prostate cancer
Authors: Chen Guo , Cai Zhi‐duan , Lin Zhuo‐yuan , Wang Cong , Liang Yu‐xiang , Han Zhao‐dong , He Hui‐chan , Mo Ru‐jun , Lu Jian‐ming , Pan Bin , Wu Chin‐lee , Wang Fen , Zhong Wei‐de
Published: April 2020

Lactate dehydrogenase isozyme (LDH) is a tetramer constituted of two isoforms, LDHA and LDHB, the expression of which is associated with cell metabolism and cancer progression. Our previous study reveals that CC‐chemokine ligand‐18 (CCL18) is involved in progression of prostate cancer (PCa).This study aims to investigate how CCL18 regulates LDH isoform expression, and therefore, contributes to PCa progression. The data revealed that the expression of LDHA was upregulated and LDHB was downregulated in PCa cells by CCL18 at both messenger RNA and protein levels. The depletion of CCR8 reduced the ability of CCL18 to promote the proliferation, migration, and lactate production of PCa cells. Depletion of a CCR8 regulated transcription factor, ARNT, significantly reduced the expression of LDHA. In addition, The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset analyses revealed a positive correlation between CCR8 and ARNT expression. Two dimension difference gel electrophoresis revealed that the LDHA/LDHB ratio was increased in the prostatic fluid of patients with PCa and PCa tissues. Furthermore, increased LDHA/LDHB ratio was associated with poor clinical outcomes of patients with PCa. Together, our results indicate that the CCR8 pathway programs LDH isoform expression in an ARNT dependent manner and that the ratio of LDHA/LDHB has the potential to serve as biomarkers for PCa diagnosis and prognosis.
Solvability and stability of the inverse Sturm–Liouville problem with analytical functions in the boundary condition
Authors: Bondarenko Natalia P.
Published: April 2020

The paper deals with the Sturm–Liouville eigenvalue problem with the Dirichlet boundary condition at one end of the interval and with the boundary condition containing entire functions of the spectral parameter at the other end. We study the inverse problem, which consists in recovering the potential from a part of the spectrum. This inverse problem generalizes partial inverse problems on finite intervals and on graphs and also the inverse transmission eigenvalue problem. We obtain sufficient conditions for global solvability of the studied inverse problem, which prove its local solvability and stability. In addition, application of our main results to the partial inverse Sturm–Liouville problem on the star‐shaped graph is provided.