bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Quality of Care Provided to Older Persons with Frailty in Five Canadian Provinces, Using Administrative Data
Authors: Kendell Cynthia , Lawson Beverley , Puyat Joseph H. , Urquhart Robin , Kazanjian Arminée , Johnston Grace , Straus Sharon E. , Durand Pierre , Juneau Lucille , Turgeon Alexis F. , Légaré France , Aubin Michèle , Rochette Louis , Giguere Anik M.C.
Published: July 2019

Nous avons examiné la qualité des soins fournis aux personnes âgées fragiles dans cinq provinces canadiennes à partir de données administratives sur la santé. Dans chaque province, nous avons considéré les personnes âgées fragiles en fonction de deux cohortes : les personnes décédées et les personnes vivantes. Des règles de décision ont été utilisées pour déterminer quelles personnes étaient frêles, soit celles résidant en établissement de soins de longue durée, qui étaient en phase terminale ou dont le profil correspondait à deux des sept domaines identifiés. Ces domaines étaient fondés sur des échelles de fragilité, des discussions avec des gériatres et des indicateurs d’utilisation des services de santé. Nous avons évalué la qualité des soins à l’aide des indicateurs de qualité suivants : diminution de la durée de l’hospitalisation, diminution du nombre de réadmissions à l’hôpital, diminution du nombre de visites à l’urgence, augmentation de la continuité des soins fournis par un médecin de famille, diminution de l’utilisation de la ventilation mécanique et diminution du nombre d’admissions aux soins intensifs. À l’aide d’analyses de régression, nous avons également constaté que le sexe masculin et l’âge avancé étaient associés à une moins bonne qualité de soins dans les deux cohortes. Cette étude fournit des données de base qui permettront d’évaluer les futurs efforts visant à améliorer la qualité des soins offerts aux personnes âgées fragiles.
How Do Regulated Nurse Professionals in Alberta Assess Geriatric Depression in Residential Care Facilities?
Authors: Azulai Anna , Walsh Christine A.
Published: July 2019

Although geriatric depression is a prevalent, serious, and under-recognized mental health condition in residential care facilities, there is a dearth of related research in Canada. This exploratory mixed methods study examines the perspectives and practices of regulated nurse professionals on assessment of geriatric depression in residential care facilities in Alberta. Findings from the quantitative surveys (n = 635) and qualitative interviews (n = 14) suggest that geriatric depression is not systematically assessed in these care settings due to multiple challenges, including confusing assessment protocol, inconsistent use and contested clinical utility of current assessment methods in facilities, limited availability of mental health professionals in facilities, and the varied views of regulated nurse professionals on who is responsible for depression assessment in facilities. Implications and future research directions are discussed.
Increasing varicella incidence rates among children in the Republic of Korea: an age–period–cohort analysis
Authors: Lee Young Hwa , Choe Young June , Cho Sung-Il , Bang Ji Hwan , Oh Myoung-don , Lee Jong-Koo
Published: July 2019

In the Republic of Korea, despite the introduction of one-dose universal varicella vaccination in 2005 and achieving a high coverage rate of 98.9% in 2012, the incidence rate has been increased sevenfold. This study aimed to investigate time trends of varicella incidence rate, assessing the age, period and birth cohort effects. We used national data on the annual number of reported cases from 2006 to 2017. A log-linear Poisson regression model was used to estimate age–period–cohort effects on varicella incidence rate. From 2006 to 2017, the incidence of varicella increased from 22.5 cases to more than 154.8 cases per 100 000. Peak incidence has shifted from 4 to 6 years old. The estimated period and cohort effects showed significant upward patterns, with a linear increasing trend by net drift. There has been an increase in the incidence among the Korean population regarding period and cohort despite the universal vaccination of varicella vaccine. Our data suggest the need for additional studies to address the current gap in herd immunity.
Differential effects of internalizing behaviors on academic functioning for girls versus boys: An analysis of developmental cascades from elementary to high school
Authors: Okano Lauren , Jeon Lieny , Crandall AliceAnn , Riley Anne
Published: July 2019

Youth's academic and emotional functioning are closely related, yet little is known about the timing and direction of relationships involving internalizing problems, which are characterized by over control of emotions, anxiety, and depression as well as multiple aspects of academic achievement. This study addresses these gaps using data from the Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (N= 1,048) to examine the processes by which problems in one domain of functioning lead to problems in another, known as a “cascade effect.” Results of longitudinal structural equation modeling indicate (a) a direct and indirect negative cascade effect from girls’ internalizing problems to their school achievement in high school, (b) a positive contemporaneous association of 9th grade boys’ internalizing problems with their cognitive achievement; and (c) ways in which demographic characteristics and adolescent social and maturational processes account for variation in functioning yet do not alter the processes by which the emotional and academic functioning interact. Results are discussed with regard to identifiying adolescents’ internalizing problems, gender differences in the effects of internalizing problems on academic functioning, timing of evidence-based interventions, and implications for mental health promotion among girls.
Optimizing portion-size estimation aids: a formative evaluation in Malawi
Authors: Schnefke Courtney H , Thakwalakwa Chrissie , Muth Mary K , Phuka John , Coates Jennifer , Rogers Beatrice , Colaiezzi Brooke , Bell Winnie , Flax Valerie L
Published: July 2019

Objective:

To investigate preferences for and ease-of-use perceptions of different aspects of printed and digitally displayed photographic portion-size estimation aids (PSEA) in a low-resource setting and to document accuracy of portion-size selections using PSEA with different visual characteristics.

Design:

A convergent mixed-methods design and stepwise approach were used to assess characteristics of interest in isolation. Participants served themselves food and water, which were weighed before and after consumption to measure leftovers and quantity consumed. Thirty minutes later, data collectors administered a meal recall using a PSEA and then a semi-structured interview.

Setting:

Blantyre and Chikwawa Districts in the southern region of Malawi.

Participants:

Ninety-six women, aged 18–45 years.

Results:

Preferences and ease-of-use perceptions favoured photographs rather than drawings of shapes, three and five portion-size options rather than three with four virtual portion-size options, a 45° rather than a 90° photograph angle, and simultaneous rather than sequential presentation of portion-size options. Approximately half to three-quarters of participants found the portion-size options represented appropriate amounts of foods or water consumed. Photographs with three portion sizes resulted in more accurate portion-size selections (closest to measured consumption) than other format and number of portion-size option combinations. A 45° angle and simultaneous presentation were more accurate than a 90° angle and sequential presentation of images.

Conclusions:

Results from testing PSEA visual characteristics separately can be used to generate optimal PSEA, which can improve participants’ experiences during meal recalls.
Why Ever Should Anyone Need a Law Librarian?
Authors: Ibbetson David
Published: July 2019

In this short article, David Ibbetson, the Regius Professor of Civil Law at the University of Cambridge, writes about the value of the law librarian in the academic context. His wide-ranging interests cover English and European legal history and, in particular, the historical relationship between English Common Law and the legal systems and legal thought of the rest of Europe. His experiences of using law libraries and receiving assistance from academic-based law librarians has led him to acknowledge the true value of the profession.
BIALL and the Wider World
Authors: Worley Loyita
Published: July 2019

In this article Loyita Worley describes the relationships between the British and Irish Association of Law Librarians (BIALL) and its fellow organisations around the world. She looks at the way that BIALL has promoted law librarianship internationally and mentions some of the activities of the Association including its recent project work in Sierra Leone, as well as noting a few reminiscences along the way.
Editorial and Introduction
Authors: Wills David
Published: July 2019

Welcome to the summer issue of Legal Information Management (LIM) which celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of the British and Irish Association of Law Librarians (BIALL). Back in 1999, on Friday 16th April 1999 to be precise, a BIALL Council meeting took place that was held at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies in London. The minutes of that meeting record that,

Before the meeting opened, Mary Blake [then President of BIALL] informed those present that the date was a special one in BIALL history, as it was 30 years to the day that BIALL was established. She had marked the occasion by bringing a birthday cake and Michael Maher [then Chair of the Association] provided bottles of Champagne for a toast after lunch.
Individuality and habits in institutional economics
Authors: Spong Heath
Published: July 2019

In this paper a sophisticated conception of individuality is developed that extends beyond simple heterogeneity and is consistent with the approach of institutional economics. Studies of human biological and psychological development are used to illustrate the foundations of human individuality and the impact of the social environment on individual development. The link between the social environment and ongoing agential properties is established through the role of habits, which provide some continuity to individual personalities over time and assist them in navigating the social context they inhabit. Reflexivity is established via an agency-structure framework that endows individuals a changeable self-concept and an ability to interpret their relationship to the social context. The coordination of different individuals is explained not simply through reference to institutional structure, but also through the agent-level properties of shared habits. While reducing differences between individuals to one of degrees, shared habits are shown to be particularly important in the context of agent-sensitive institutions. Finally, the potential for different institutional experiences to impact the reflexivity of individuals is explored.
Dual-function radar–communications: information transmission during FDA radar listening mode
Authors: Al-Salehi Abdul Rahman , Qureshi Ijaz Mansoor , Malik Aqdas Naveed , Khan Wasim , Basit Abdul
Published: July 2019

We investigate the frequency diverse array (FDA) for joint radar and communication systems. The basic idea is to use the transmitter/receiver modules of the radar system for communication purpose during listening mode as a secondary function. The radar will be performing its routine functions during the active mode as a primary function. An FDA at the transmitter side will be used to produce an orthogonal frequency division multiplexed signal, which is proposed for the communication system. The directivity of the radar antenna, FDA in this case, provides an additional advantage to mitigate the interferences other than the Direction of Interest (DoI). The proposed technique allows two beampatterns to be transmitted sequentially from the same FDA structure. Due to the communication signal transmission in the mainlobe of the second beampattern, the bit error rate achieved in the mainlobe is better than the existing techniques using the sidelobe transmission for communications. At the receiver, both incoming signals of radar and communication will share a different spatial angle. Simulation results indicate the novelty of the idea to suppress the interferences in terms of DoI. Furthermore, we analyzed the signal-to-interference ratio and Cramer–Rao lower bounds for angle and range estimation for the proposed technique.
Volcanoes Erupt Stressed Quartz Crystals
Authors: Befus K. S. , Manga M. , Stan C. , Tamura N.
Published: July 2019

Volcanic eruptions are energetic events driven by the imbalance of magmatic forces. The magnitudes of these forces remain poorly constrained because they operate in regions that are inaccessible, either underground or dangerous to approach. New techniques are needed to quantify the processes that drive eruptions and to probe magma storage conditions. Here we present X‐ray microdiffraction measurements of volcanic stress imparted as lattice distortions to the crystal cargo of magma from Yellowstone and Long Valley eruptions. Elevated residual stresses between 100 and 300 MPa are preserved in erupted quartz. Multiple volcanic forces could be culpable for the deformation so we analyzed crystals from pyroclastic falls, pyroclastic density currents, and effusive lavas. Stresses are preserved in all quartz but cannot be attributed to differences in eruption style. Instead, lattice deformation likely preserves an in situ measurement of the deviatoric stresses required for the brittle failure of viscous, crystal‐bearing glass during ascent.
Solar Wind Proton Deceleration in Front of the Terrestrial Bow Shock
Authors: Urbář J. , Němeček Z. , Šafránková J. , Přech L.
Published: July 2019

The terrestrial foreshock as a region permeated by different types of plasma waves, various particle populations, and strong wave activity is a subject of intensive investigations. Our statistical study of the solar wind proton velocity deceleration in the foreshock uses multipoint observations of the THEMIS mission and compare them with the Wind solar wind monitor with a motivation to estimate the factors influencing evolution/modification of the solar wind speed. In order to follow changes of the solar wind proton speed, our moment calculations do not include the reflected particles as well as heavier ions. We have found a systematic deceleration of the solar wind protons with a decreasing distance to the bow shock that is correlated with the flux of reflected and accelerated particles, with the level of magnetic field fluctuations in the ultralow frequency range, and with their compressibility. We can conclude that the reflected particles excite waves of large amplitudes and, as a consequence, modify median values of the velocity measured in an unperturbed solar wind. The deceleration is as high as 3% in front of the quasi‐parallel bow shock and decreases with the distance being observable up to 50 RE. We found similar effects in front of the Moon and attributed them to an influence of the solar wind ions reflected from the lunar surface.
An El Niño Mode in the Glacial Indian Ocean?
Authors: Thirumalai Kaustubh , DiNezio Pedro N. , Tierney Jessica E. , Puy Martin , Mohtadi Mahyar
Published: July 2019

Despite minor variations in sea surface temperature (SST) compared to other tropical regions, coupled ocean‐atmosphere dynamics in the Indian Ocean cause widespread drought, wildfires, and flooding. It is unclear whether changes in the Indian Ocean mean state can support stronger SST variability and climatic extremes. Here we focus on the Last Glacial Maximum (19,000–21,000 years before present) when background oceanic conditions could have been favorable for stronger variability. Using individual foraminiferal analyses and climate model simulations, we find that seasonal and interannual SST variations in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean were much larger during this glacial period relative to modern conditions. The increase in year‐to‐year variance is consistent with the emergence of an equatorial mode of climate variability, which strongly resembles the Pacific El Niño and is currently not active in the Indian Ocean.
Genetic predisposition to higher body fat yet lower cardiometabolic risk in children and adolescents
Authors: Viitasalo Anna , Schnurr Theresia M. , Pitkänen Niina , Hollensted Mette , Nielsen Tenna R. H. , Pahkala Katja , Lintu Niina , Lind Mads V. , Atalay Mustafa , Frithioff-Bøjsøe Christine , Fonvig Cilius E. , Grarup Niels , Kähönen Mika , Larnkjaer Anni , Pedersen Oluf , Holm Jens-Christian , Michaelsen Kim F. , Lakka Timo A. , Lehtimäki Terho , Raitakari Olli , Hansen Torben , Kilpeläinen Tuomas O.
Published: July 2019

Background

Most obese children show cardiometabolic impairments, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Yet some obese children retain a normal cardiometabolic profile. The mechanisms underlying this variability remain largely unknown. We examined whether genetic loci associated with increased insulin sensitivity and relatively higher fat storage on the hip than on the waist in adults are associated with a normal cardiometabolic profile despite higher adiposity in children.

Methods

We constructed a genetic score using variants previously linked to increased insulin sensitivity and/or decreased waist–hip ratio adjusted for body mass index (BMI), and examined the associations of this genetic score with adiposity and cardiometabolic impairments in a meta-analysis of six cohorts, including 7391 European children aged 3–18 years.

Results

The genetic score was significantly associated with increased degree of obesity (higher BMI-SDS beta = 0.009 SD/allele, SE = 0.003, P = 0.003; higher body fat mass beta = 0.009, SE = 0.004, P = 0.031), yet improved body fat distribution (lower WHRadjBMI beta = −0.014 SD/allele, SE = 0.006, P = 0.016), and favorable concentrations of blood lipids (higher HDL cholesterol: beta = 0.010 SD/allele, SE = 0.003, P = 0.002; lower triglycerides: beta = −0.011 SD/allele, SE = 0.003, P = 0.001) adjusted for age, sex, and puberty. No differences were detected between prepubertal and pubertal/postpubertal children. The genetic score predicted a normal cardiometabolic profile, defined by the presence of normal glucose and lipid concentrations, among obese children (OR = 1.07 CI 95% 1.01–1.13, P = 0.012, n = 536).

Conclusions

Genetic predisposition to higher body fat yet lower cardiometabolic risk exerts its influence before puberty.
CXCL12 loaded-dermal filler captures CXCR4 expressing melanoma circulating tumor cells
Authors: Ieranò Caterina , D’Alterio Crescenzo , Giarra Simona , Napolitano Maria , Rea Giuseppina , Portella Luigi , Santagata Assunta , Trotta Anna Maria , Barbieri Antonio , Campani Virginia , Luciano Antonio , Arra Claudio , Anniciello Anna Maria , Botti Gerardo , Mayol Laura , De Rosa Giuseppe , Pacelli Roberto , Scala Stefania
Published: July 2019

Development of distant metastasis relies on interactions between cancer and stromal cells. CXCL12, also known as stromal-derived factor 1α (SDF-1α), is a major chemokine constitutively secreted in bone marrow, lymph nodes, liver and lung, playing a critical role in the migration and seeding of neoplastic cells. CXCL12 activates the CXCR4 receptor that is overexpressed in several human cancer cells. Recent evidence reveals that tumors induce pre-metastatic niches in target organ producing tumor-derived factors. Pre-metastatic niches represent a tumor growth-favoring microenvironment in absence of cancer cells. A commercially available dermal filler, hyaluronic acid (HA) -based gel, loaded with CXCL12 (CLG) reproduced a “fake” pre-metastatic niche. In vitro, B16-hCXCR4-GFP, human cxcr4 expressing murine melanoma cells efficiently migrated toward CLG. In vivo, CLGs and empty gels (EGs) were subcutaneously injected into C57BL/6 mice and 5 days later B16-hCXCR4-GFP cells were intravenously inoculated. CLGs were able to recruit a significantly higher number of B16-hCXCR4-GFP cells as compared to EGs, with reduced lung metastasis in mice carrying CLG. CLG were infiltrated by higher number of CD45-positive leukocytes, mainly neutrophils CD11b+Ly6G+ cells, myeloid CD11b+Ly6G- and macrophages F4/80. CLG recovered cells recapitulated the features of B16-hCXCR4-GFP (epithelial, melanin rich, MELAN A/ S100/ c-Kit/CXCR4 pos; α-SMA neg). Thus a HA-based dermal filler loaded with CXCL12 can attract and trap CXCR4+tumor cells. The CLG trapped cells can be recovered and biologically characterized. As a corollary, a reduction in CXCR4 dependent lung metastasis was detected.
Gram-scale total synthesis of teixobactin promoting binding mode study and discovery of more potent antibiotics
Authors: Zong Yu , Fang Fang , Meyer Kirsten J. , Wang Liguo , Ni Zhihao , Gao Hongying , Lewis Kim , Zhang Jingren , Rao Yu
Published: July 2019

Teixobactin represents a new class of antibiotics with novel structure and excellent activity against Gram-positive pathogens and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Herein, we report a one-pot reaction to conveniently construct the key building block l-allo-Enduracidine in 30-gram scale in just one hour  and a convergent strategy (3 + 2 + 6) to accomplish a gram-scale total synthesis of teixobactin. Several analogs are described, with 20 and 26 identified as the most efficacious analogs with 3~8-fold and 2~4-fold greater potency against vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecalis and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus respectively in comparison with teixobactin. In addition, they show high efficiency in Streptococcus pneumoniae septicemia mouse model and neutropenic mouse thigh infection model using methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. We also propose that the antiparallel β-sheet of teixobactin is important for its bioactivity and an antiparallel dimer of teixobactin is the minimal binding unit for lipid II via key amino acids variations and molecular docking.
X chromosome genetic data in a Spanish children cohort, dataset description and analysis pipeline
Authors: Anguita-Ruiz Augusto , Plaza-Diaz Julio , Ruiz-Ojeda Francisco Javier , Rupérez Azahara I. , Leis Rosaura , Bueno Gloria , Gil-Campos Mercedes , Vázquez-Cobela Rocío , Cañete Ramón , Moreno Luis A. , Gil Ángel , Aguilera Concepción María
Published: July 2019

X chromosome genetic variation has been proposed as a potential source of missing heritability for many complex diseases, including obesity. Currently, there is a lack of public available genetic datasets incorporating X chromosome genotype data. Although several X chromosome-specific statistics have been developed, there is also a lack of readily available implementations for routine analysis. Here, we aimed: (1) to make public and describe a dataset incorporating phenotype and X chromosome genotype data from a cohort of 915 normal-weight, overweight and obese children, and (2) to deeply describe a whole implementation of the special X chromosome analytic process in genetics. Datasets and pipelines like this are crucial to get familiar with the steps in which X chromosome requires special attention and may raise awareness of the importance of this genomic region.
Urinary volatile metabolites of amygdala-kindled mice reveal novel biomarkers associated with temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Fujita Akiko , Ota Manami , Kato Keiko
Published: July 2019

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting mammals, including humans. Uncontrolled epilepsy is associated with poor quality of life, accidents, and sudden death. In particular, temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common type of pharmacoresistant epilepsy, which easily gets out of control in human adults. The aim of this study was to profile urinary volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a mouse model of TLE using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Thirteen urinary VOCs exhibited differential abundance between epileptic and control mice, and the corresponding areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were greater than 0.8. Principal component analysis (PCA) based on these 13 VOCs separated epileptic from sham operated-mice, suggesting that all these 13 VOCs are epilepsy biomarkers. Promax rotation and dendrogram analysis concordantly separated the 13 VOCs into three groups. Stepwise linear discriminant analysis extracted methanethiol; disulfide, dimethyl; and 2-butanone as predictors. Based on known metabolic systems, the results suggest that TLE induced by amygdala stimulation could affect both endogenous metabolites and the gut flora. Future work will elucidate the physiological meaning of the VOCs as end-products of metabolic networks and assess the impact of the metabolic background involved in development of TLE.
Comparison of Four Complete Chloroplast Genomes of Medicinal and Ornamental Meconopsis Species: Genome Organization and Species Discrimination
Authors: Li Xiaoxue , Tan Wei , Sun Jiqi , Du Junhua , Zheng Chenguang , Tian Xiaoxuan , Zheng Min , Xiang Beibei , Wang Yong
Published: July 2019

High-throughput sequencing of chloroplast genomes has been used to gain insight into the evolutionary relationships of plant species. In this study, we sequenced the complete chloroplast genomes of four species in the Meconopsis genus: M. racemosa, M. integrifolia (Maxim.) Franch, M. horridula and M. punicea. These plants grow in the wild and are recognized as having important medicinal and ornamental applications. The sequencing results showed that the size of the Meconopsis chloroplast genome ranges from 151864 to 153816 bp. A total of 127 genes comprising 90 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes were observed in all four chloroplast genomes. Comparative analysis of the four chloroplast genomes revealed five hotspot regions (matK, rpoC2, petA, ndhF, and ycf1), which could potentially be used as unique molecular markers for species identification. In addition, the ycf1 gene may also be used as an effective molecular marker to distinguish Papaveraceae and determine the evolutionary relationships among plant species in the Papaveraceae family. Futhermore, these four genomes can provide valuable genetic information for other related studies.
Adaptive delivery of continuous and delayed feedback deep brain stimulation - a computational study
Authors: Popovych Oleksandr V. , Tass Peter A.
Published: July 2019

Adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) is a closed-loop method, where high-frequency DBS is turned on and off according to a feedback signal, whereas conventional high-frequency DBS (cDBS) is delivered permanently. Using a computational model of subthalamic nucleus and external globus pallidus, we extend the concept of adaptive stimulation by adaptively controlling not only continuous, but also demand-controlled stimulation. Apart from aDBS and cDBS, we consider continuous pulsatile linear delayed feedback stimulation (cpLDF), specifically designed to induce desynchronization. Additionally, we combine adaptive on-off delivery with continuous delayed feedback modulation by introducing adaptive pulsatile linear delayed feedback stimulation (apLDF), where cpLDF is turned on and off using pre-defined amplitude thresholds. By varying the stimulation parameters of cDBS, aDBS, cpLDF, and apLDF we obtain optimal parameter ranges. We reveal a simple relation between the thresholds of the local field potential (LFP) for aDBS and apLDF, the extent of the stimulation-induced desynchronization, and the integral stimulation time required. We find that aDBS and apLDF can be more efficient in suppressing abnormal synchronization than continuous simulation. However, apLDF still remains more efficient and also causes a stronger reduction of the LFP beta burst length. Hence, adaptive on-off delivery may further improve the intrinsically demand-controlled pLDF.
Establishment of hepatocellular carcinoma patient-derived xenografts from image-guided percutaneous biopsies
Authors: Tischfield David J. , Ackerman Daniel , Noji Michael , Chen James X. , Johnson Omar , Perkons Nicholas R. , Nadolski Gregory J. , Hunt Stephen J. , Soulen Michael C. , Furth Emma E. , Gade Terence P.
Published: July 2019

While patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been successfully generated from resected tissues, no reliable methods have been reported for the generation of PDXs from patients who are not candidates for resection and represent the vast majority of patients with HCC. Here we compare two methods for the creation of PDXs from HCC biopsies and find that implantation of whole biopsy samples without the addition of basement membrane matrix favors the formation of PDX tumors that resemble Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-driven B-cell lymphomas rather than HCC tumors. In contrast, implantation with Matrigel supports growth of HCC cells and leads to a high rate of HCC tumor formation from these biopsies. We validate the resulting PDXs, confirm their fidelity to the patients’ disease and conclude that minimally invasive percutaneous liver biopsies can be used with relatively high efficiency to generate PDXs of HCC.
Effect of antioxidants on BPA-induced stress on sperm function in a mouse model
Authors: Rahman Md Saidur , Kang Kyu-Ho , Arifuzzaman Sarder , Pang Won-Ki , Ryu Do-Yeal , Song Won-Hee , Park Yoo-Jin , Pang Myung-Geol
Published: July 2019

In the past few years, bisphenol A, (BPA) an endocrine-disrupting chemical, has received increasing attention because of its detrimental health effects. There is ample evidence to support that BPA interferes with the reproductive health of humans and animals. In spermatozoa, BPA-induced adverse effects are mostly caused by increased oxidative stress. Using anin vitroexperimental model, we examined whether antioxidants (glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E) have defensive effects against BPA-induced stress in spermatozoa. The results showed that antioxidants inhibit the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (basically cellular peroxides) and increase intracellular ATP levels, thereby preventing motility loss and abnormal acrosome reaction in BPA-exposed spermatozoa. In particular, glutathione and vitamin E reduced the protein kinase A-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation in spermatozoa and, thus, prevented the precocious acrosome reaction from occurring. Furthermore, we found that the compromised fertilisation and early embryo development mediated by BPA-exposed spermatozoa can be improved following their supplementation with glutathione and vitamin E. Based on these findings, we suggest that antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in BPA-exposed spermatozoa, thus preventing detrimental effects on their function and fertility.
Analysis of long dsRNA produced in vitro and in vivo using atomic force microscopy in conjunction with ion-pair reverse-phase HPLC
Authors: Nwokeoji Alison O. , Kumar Sandip , Kilby Peter M. , Portwood David E. , Hobbs Jamie K. , Dickman Mark J.
Published: July 2019

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) in conjunction with ion-pair reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (IP-RP-HPLC) provides novel insight into dsRNA for RNAi applications.
Target engagement approaches for pharmacological evaluation in animal models
Authors: Kath James E. , Baranczak Aleksandra
Published: July 2019

We highlight recent applications of chemical biology approaches to measure target engagement of small molecules in animal models to support the nomination of clinical candidates.
Needle grass-like cobalt hydrogen phosphate on Ni foam as an effective and stable electrocatalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Sun Zemin , Yuan Mengwei , Lin Liu , Yang Han , Li Huifeng , Sun Genban , Yang Xiaojing , Ma Shulan
Published: July 2019

Novel three dimensional needle grass-like CoHPO4·H2O on Ni foam has been prepared as an effective and robust OER electrocatalyst.
Cation–π induced lithium-doped conjugated microporous polymer with remarkable hydrogen storage performance
Authors: Yang Li , Ma Yuanchi , Xu Yewei , Chang Guanjun
Published: July 2019

A cation–π induced lithium-doped conjugated microporous polymer, Li+–PTAT, was constructed.
A neutral water-soluble mitochondria-targeting polymer
Authors: Geng Yu , Zhong Yin , Zhou Quan , Chen Siqin , Piao Ying , Yin Wei , Lu Hua , Shen Youqing
Published: July 2019

A neutral water-soluble N-oxide polymer can expeditiously enter a cell's mitochondria, and even reach the mitochondria after i.v. injection, making it an ideal delivery carrier.
A water-soluble AIE-active polyvalent glycocluster: design, synthesis and studies on carbohydrate–lectin interactions for visualization of Siglec distributions in living cell membranes
Authors: Liu Guang-jian , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Lingyun , Jia Li-yan , Jiang Guohua , Xing Guo-wen , Wang Shu
Published: July 2019

An AIE-active tetraphenylethene-decorated pseudo-trisialic acidTPE3Swas synthesized and utilized for visualization of Siglecs expressed on the surface of cells.
Imidazolium-benzimidazolates as convenient sources of donor-functionalised normal and abnormal N-heterocyclic carbenes
Authors: Kureja Kunal , Zinke Julian , Bruhn Clemens , Siemeling Ulrich
Published: July 2019

Imidazolium-benzimidazolates are established as a new family of “instant carbenes” with highly versatile coordination chemistry.
Correction: Vehicle-saving theranostic probes based on hydrophobic iron oxide nanoclusters using doxorubicin as a phase transfer agent for MRI and chemotherapy
Authors: Cao Yanbing , Min Juan , Zheng Dongye , Li Jiong , Xue Yanan , Yu Faquan , Wu Ming
Published: July 2019

Correction for ‘Vehicle-saving theranostic probes based on hydrophobic iron oxide nanoclusters using doxorubicin as a phase transfer agent for MRI and chemotherapy’ by Yanbing Cao et al., Chem. Commun., 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c9cc03868j.
Construction of novel hybrid PdO–ZnO p–n heterojunction nanostructures as a high-response sensor for acetaldehyde gas
Authors: Majhi Sanjit Manohar , Lee Hu-Jun , Choi Ha-Nui , Cho Ha-Young , Kim Jin-Soo , Lee Cheul-Ro , Yu Yeon-Tae
Published: July 2019

A facile and unique approach to design PdO@ZnO p–n heterojunction nanostructures (NSs) as a highly sensitive and selective acetaldehyde gas sensor.
Photodriven solid-state multiple [2 + 2] cycloaddition strategies for the construction of polycyclobutane derivatives
Authors: Yu Jian-Gang , Gan Ming-Ming , Bai Sha , Han Ying-Feng
Published: July 2019

Solid-state multiple [2 + 2] cycloaddition reactions of polyenes continue to attract attention as a mediate for the synthesis of polycyclobutane derivatives.
Correction: Role of conformation in crystal formation and transition of polybutene-1
Authors: Qiu Xing , Hu Cunliang , Li Jingqing , Huang Dinghai , Jiang Shichun
Published: July 2019

Correction for ‘Role of conformation in crystal formation and transition of polybutene-1’ by Xing Qiu et al., CrystEngComm, 2019, DOI: 10.1039/c9ce00576e.
Free ion diffusivity and charge concentration on cross-linked polymeric ionic liquid iongel films based on sulfonated zwitterionic salts and lithium ions
Authors: Valverde David , Garcia-Bernabé Abel , Andrio Andreu , García-Verdugo Eduardo , Luis Santiago V. , Compañ Vicente
Published: July 2019

The properties of various mixtures of a zwitterionic ionic liquid (ZIs-1) and LiNTf2, including their conductivity, have been studied showing how they can be adjusted through their molar composition.
Oscillator strengths and integral cross sections of the valence-shell excitations of HCl studied by fast electron scattering
Authors: Xu Yuan-Chen , Liu Ya-Wei , Du Xiao-Jiao , Xu Long-Quan , Zhu Lin-Fan
Published: July 2019

The dynamic parameters of the valence-shell excitations of HCl have been studied by using high energy electron scattering.
Computational acceleration of prospective dopant discovery in cuprous iodide
Authors: Graužinytė Miglė , Botti Silvana , Marques Miguel A. L. , Goedecker Stefan , Flores-Livas José A.
Published: July 2019

In order to enhance the conductivity in γ-CuI – an intrinsic transparent p-type semiconductor – 64 elements are investigated as substitutional dopants. Novel impurities are suggested for both p-type and n-type doping.
Unusually high flexibility of graphene–Cu nanolayered composites under bending
Authors: Zhao Yuxin , Liu Xiaoyi , Zhu Jun , Luo Sheng-Nian
Published: July 2019

The mechanical properties of graphene–Cu nanolayered (GCuNL) composites under bend loading are investigated via an energy-based analytical model and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations.
Superior cycling performance of a novel NKVO@polypyrrole composite anode for aqueous rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Lashari Najeeb ur Rehman , Zhao Mingshu , Zheng Qingyang , Duan Wenyuan , Song Xiaoping
Published: July 2019

An aqueous rechargeable lithium-ion battery (ARLB) system has been assembled using as-prepared polypyrrole (PPy) to coat Na0.8K0.2K6O15 (NKVO) anode coupled with LiMn2O4 cathode, both immersed in an aqueous LiNO3 solution.
Ion-solvating membranes as a new approach towards high rate alkaline electrolyzers
Authors: Kraglund Mikkel Rykær , Carmo Marcelo , Schiller Günter , Ansar Syed Asif , Aili David , Christensen Erik , Jensen Jens Oluf
Published: July 2019

Polymer membranes imbibed with KOH represent a novel way to achieve ionic conductivity and show promise for alkaline electrolyzers.
Quantification of technological progress in greenhouse gas (GHG) capture and mitigation using patent data
Authors: Sharifzadeh Mahdi , Triulzi Giorgio , Magee Christopher L.
Published: July 2019

Greenhouse gas emissions from anthropogenic sources are believed to be the main cause of global warming. We estimate performance improvement rates of various GHG capture and mitigation technologies using a method based on patent centrality.
Effective removal and selective capture of copper from salty solution in flow electrode capacitive deionization
Authors: Zhang Xudong , Yang Fan , Ma Junjun , Liang Peng
Published: July 2019

The application of flow-electrode capacitive deionization might provide an alternative for water reclamation and selective recovery of copper.
An eco-design approach for an innovative production process of low molar mass dextran
Authors: Ahmadi Aras , Severac Etienne , Monties Nelly , Claverie Marion , Remaud-Simeon Magali , Moulis Claire , Tiruta-Barna Ligia
Published: July 2019

An approach for early-stage ecodesign of an enzyme based process was developed by coupling process modeling, Life Cycle Assessment and flowsheet design, to evaluate the real advantages of the direct synthesis of low molar mass dextrans from sucrose.
Efficient Ru-based scrap waste automotive converter catalysts for the continuous-flow selective hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde
Authors: Cova Camilla Maria , Zuliani Alessio , Muñoz-Batista Mario J. , Luque Rafael
Published: July 2019

Mechanochemical preparation of a novel catalyst based on Ru-containing scrap catalytic converters for the selective continuous flow hydrogenation of cinnamaldehyde.
Recent advances in N-formylation of amines and nitroarenes using efficient (nano)catalysts in eco-friendly media
Authors: Nasrollahzadeh Mahmoud , Motahharifar Narjes , Sajjadi Mohaddeseh , Aghbolagh Amir Moradzadeh , Shokouhimehr Mohammadreza , Varma Rajender S.
Published: July 2019

N-Formylation of amines or nitroarenes in water, polyethylene glycol, and ionic liquids, as well as under solvent-free conditions, is summarized.
An electrochemical off–on method for pyrimidin-2(1H)-one synthesis via three-component cyclization
Authors: Kong Yanyan , Li Yabo , Huang Mengmeng , Kim Jung Keun , Wu Yangjie
Published: July 2019

The electrochemical off–on ‘one-pot’ synthesis of pyrimidin-2(1H)-ones via three-component cyclization.
Synthesis, characterization, photoluminescence and intensity parameters of high quantum efficiency pure-red emitting Eu(iii) fluorinated β-diketone complexes
Authors: Bhat Shabir Ahmad , Iftikhar Khalid
Published: July 2019

The high quantum efficiency mononuclear 7-, 8- and 9-coordinate complexes of tris(heptafluoro-dimethyl-octanedionato)Eu(iii) and 1H-indazole, 2-(1H-imidazol-2-yl)pyridine and 2,4,6-tris(2-pyridyl)-s-triazine are synthesized and thoroughly characterized.
Reactivity of bis[{2,6-(dimethylamino)methyl}phenyl]telluride with Pd(ii) and Hg(ii): isolation of the first Pd(ii) complex of an organotellurenium cation as a ligand
Authors: Gupta Anand K. , Deka Rajesh , Singh Harkesh B. , Butcher Ray J.
Published: July 2019

The first complex of an organotellurenium cation as a ligand with Pd(ii) is reported.
Electrochemical determination of methyl parathion based on pillar[5]arene@AuNPs@reduced graphene oxide hybrid nanomaterials
Authors: Hou Xiaoqian , Liu Xuwen , Li Zhi , Zhang Jun , Du Guanben , Ran Xin , Yang Long
Published: July 2019

The detection of pesticides has become a very important and critical research area because of the rapid development of agriculture and strict environmental protection regulations.
Fabrication of homogeneous and highly dispersed CoMn catalysts for outstanding low temperature catalytic oxidation performance
Authors: Han Weigao , Dong Fang , Han Weiliang , Tang Zhicheng
Published: July 2019

A series of homogeneous and highly dispersed CoMnOx bimetallic oxides with different ratios were prepared through pyrolysis of CoMn-MOF-71, which was applied to the catalytic oxidation of toluene.
Polyglutamic acid-coordinated assembly of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for synergistic tumor-specific therapy
Authors: Xiaoyu Ma , Xiuling Dong , Chunyu Zang , Yi Sun , Jiangchao Qian , Yuan Yuan , Changsheng Liu
Published: July 2019

An illustration of the controllable synthesis of HA-PGA for intracellular Ca2+ upload and intensified anti-tumor activity.
Highly sensitive detection of prostate cancer specific PCA3 mimic DNA using SERS-based competitive lateral flow assay
Authors: Fu Xiuli , Wen Jiahui , Li Jingwen , Lin Hao , Liu Yongming , Zhuang Xuming , Tian Chunyuan , Chen Lingxin
Published: July 2019

A simple, rapid and convenient SERS-based competitive lateral flow assay was developed for highly sensitive detection of PCA3 mimic DNA.
Resonance energy transfer and quantum entanglement mediated by epsilon-near-zero and other plasmonic waveguide systems
Authors: Li Ying , Nemilentsau Andrei , Argyropoulos Christos
Published: July 2019

We present enhanced Förster resonance energy transfer and prolonged efficient quantum entanglement between optical qubits separated by long-range distances mediated by epsilon-near-zero plasmonic waveguides.
Near-infrared emissive Er(iii) and Yb(iii) molecular nanomagnets in metal–organic chains functionalized by octacyanidometallates(iv)
Authors: Jankowski Robert , Zakrzewski Jakub J. , Surma Olga , Ohkoshi Shin-ichi , Chorazy Szymon , Sieklucka Barbara
Published: July 2019

Photoluminescent single-molecule magnets are formed in lanthanide(pyrazine N,N′-dioxide) chains with octacyanidometallate(iv) coordination branches playing a crucial role in sensitized NIR emission.
Correction: Theoretical calculation of a full-dimensional ab initio potential energy surface and prediction of infrared spectra for Xe–CS2
Authors: Qin Miao , Xiao Xiuchan , Zhu Hua
Published: July 2019

Correction for ‘Theoretical calculation of a full-dimensional ab initio potential energy surface and prediction of infrared spectra for Xe–CS2’ by Miao Qin et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 20925–20930.
TP73 is a credible biomarker for predicting clinical progression and prognosis in cervical cancer patients
Authors: Ye Hui , Guo Xia
Published: July 2019

Tumor protein p73 (TP73) has been reported to be dysregulated in various types of human cancer and associated with clinical progression and outcome. Owing to the lack of reports on the correlation between TP73 protein expression and clinicopathologic features of cervical cancer, the aim of our research was to explore the clinical and prognostic significance of TP73 protein expression in cervical cancer patients. In our study, TP73 protein expression was detected by immunochemistry in 118 paraffin-embedded cervical cancer tissue specimens and 40 paraffin-embedded normal cervical epithelium tissue specimens. In the results, we found cervical cancer tissues exhibited high TP73 expression in comparison with normal cervical epithelium tissues, which was consistent with the expression status of TP73 in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Furthermore, we analyzed the relationships between TP73 expression and clinicopathologic features through using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test, and found high expression of TP73 was markedly associated with early clinical stage, less lymph node metastasis, absent distant metastasis, squamous cell carcinoma and favorable histological grade. The Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test were performed based on the expression level of TP73 in a cervical cancer cohort from the TCGA database, and showed that TP73 expression was positively correlated with overall survival time in cervical cancer patients. Moreover, univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model indicated that high TP73 expression was identified as an independent factor for predicting favorable overall survival in cervical cancer patients. In conclusion, TP73 expression is increased in cervical cancer tissues and cells, and acts as a credible biomarker for predicting favorable overall survival in cervical cancer patients.
Impact of obesity-induced type 2 diabetes on long-term outcomes following stroke
Authors: Bhaskar Sonu
Published: July 2019

Diabetes is associated with poor recovery profiles following stroke. The pathophysiological mechanisms by which diabetes mediates neurological recovery after stroke are debatable. A recent paper published in the Clinical Science by Pintana et al. (Clinical Science (2019)133, 1367–1386) provides a possible explanation for the underlying mechanisms of poor long-term motor recovery after stroke in obesity-induced diabetes animal model. Authors report that stroke-induced neurogenesis and parvalbumin (PV)+ interneuron-mediated neuroplasticity is severely impaired due to obesity-induced type 2 diabetes (T2D). Poor long-term motor recovery after stroke in comorbid obese and diabetic mice was not associated with stroke-induced grey or white matter damage. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial to develop therapeutic strategies to improve recovery in the obesity-induced diabetic population. The strength of the present study lies in the use of a comorbid obese/diabetic animal model, which is more likely to reflect the clinical scenario. However, these findings should be understood from the context of this specific animal model and whether these findings hold true for another variant of the obesity/T2D model warrants further consideration. This is an interesting study from the perspective of understanding the stroke pathology in T2D; however, the interaction of microvascular changes (including vascular modelling, angiogenesis), oxidative stress and insulin resistance (IR) associated with T2D and poor recovery profile merit further discussions. Given the increasing burden of obesity, diabetes and/or stroke globally, understanding of mechanisms may be useful in developing cardiovascular risk management pathways in this subgroup of population who are at increased risk of poor clinical outcomes following acute stroke.