bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approaching High‐Performance Lithium Storage Materials by Constructing Hierarchical CoNiO2@CeO2 Nanosheets
Authors: Yi Ting feng , Shi Lingna , Han Xiao , Wang Fanfan , Zhu Yanrong , Xie Ying
Published: September 2020

In this work, the hierarchical CoNiO2@CeO2 nanosheet composites were successfully prepared by a one‐step hydrothermal process with a subsequent annealing process for the first time. The CeO2 nanoparticles successfully deposit on the surface of CoNiO2 nanosheet, and benefit the improvement of electrical contact between CoNiO2 and CeO2. CeO2 modification improve the reversibility of insertion/extraction of Li‐ions and electrochemical reaction activity, and promotes the transport of Li‐ions. Benefited of the unique architecture and component, the CoNiO2@CeO2 nanosheet composites show high‐reversible capacities, excellent cycling stability and good rate capability. The CoNiO2@CeO2 (5.0 wt%) shows a charge/discharge capacity of 867.1/843.2 mAh g−1 after 600 cycles at 1 A g−1, but the pristine CoNiO2@CeO2 nanosheet only delivers a charge/discharge capacity of 516.9/517.6 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles. The first‐principles calculation reveals that valid interfaces between CeO2 and NiCoO2 can be formed, and the formation process of the interfaces is exothermic. The strong interfacial interaction resulting in an excellent structure stability and thus a cycling stability of the CoNiO2@CeO2 material. This work provides an effective strategy to develop high‐performance anode materials for advanced a lithium‐ion battery, and the CoNiO2@CeO2 nanosheet shows a sizeable potential as an anode material for next generation of high‐energy Li‐ion batteries.
De Winter syndrome as an emergency electrocardiogram sign of ST‐elevation myocardial infarction: a case report
Authors: Yan Jianwei , Wang Qian , Zhang Zhiliang , Shi Guoxiang , Hua Jinghai , Ying Ru , Kang Ting , Zheng Zhenzhong , Zheng Zeqi , Peng Xiaoping , Zhu Jianbing
Published: September 2020

The case report aims to reveal de Winter's electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern as an equivalent to anterior ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We report a case of a 49‐year‐old man with a history of smoking who presented to the emergency department with a 1 day history of chest pain that was exacerbated 5 h prior to presentation. Detailed clinical investigations and coronary angiographic characteristics were recorded. The first ECG of the patient was consistent with de Winter syndrome. Acute coronary artery angiography showed that the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery was completely occluded after the first diagonal branch artery was given off. A percutaneous coronary intervention was immediately performed. Our case indicates that early identification and diagnosis of such ECGs and timely reperfusion therapy of de Winter syndrome as a STEMI equivalent are required to improve the prognosis of such patients.
Arrhenius Equation Modeling for the Oxidative Stability Evaluation of Echium Oil Enriched with a Natural Preservative
Authors: Mihaylova Dasha , Gandova Vanya , Deseva Ivelina , Tschuikowa Steffi , Schalow Sebastian , Westphal Günter
Published: September 2020

The present study evaluates the oxidative stability of refined echium oil supplemented with Sophora japonica L. extract (200 ppm). Commonly used synthetic antioxidants (butylated hydroxytoluen (BHT), ascorbyl palmitate, and quercetin) are used as reference additives. The plant extract is evaluated to possess better in vitro antioxidant potential than BHT, and comparable to that of quercetin. The degradation kinetics at 6, 25, and 60 °C with and without antioxidants is studied, as well as the progress of oil oxidation. The temperature dependence of oxidation is expressed with the Arrhenius equation in addition to reaction rate constant (k) and activation energy (Ea) also determined using Arrhenius equation. Enthalpy of activation (ΔH‡), entropy of activation (ΔS‡), and Gibb's free energy of activation (ΔG‡) are calculated according to the Eyring equation. It is established that the rate constant increased with the temperature of storage. The lipid oxidation reactions are established to follow a zero‐order kinetic model for peroxide value. The oxidation reaction is determined as exothermic and non‐spontaneous. In conclusion, S. japonica extract is evaluated with high antioxidant potential and can be used as a promising oil stabilizer. It can successfully be added to prevent lipid structure oxidation while providing health benefits to consumers.

Practical Applications: The application of natural antioxidants in edible oils in order to substitute synthetic additives is a matter of research interest. The present study aims to compare commonly used synthetic antioxidants with natural ones. Ascorbyl palmitate has the greatest ability to stabilize echium oil at 6, 25, and 60 °C, but the Sophora japonica L. extract possesses good potential for retarding the oxidation. The results of this study outline the potential of the natural extract of S. japonica, which needs to be further studied.
Quantitative Analysis of Chemical and Phase Composition of Zn−Ni Alloy Coating by Potentiodynamic Stripping
Authors: Maizelis Antonina , Kolupaieva Zoia
Published: September 2020

We propose quantitative analysis of chemical and phase composition of Zn−Ni alloy depending on the film thickness, using potentiodynamic stripping in an alkaline ammonia‐glycinate electrolyte. The mechanism of dissolution of zinc‐enriched Zn−Ni alloy films in this electrolyte comprises sequential stages of dissolution of zinc‐phase and zinc from a γ‐phase of various structures, followed by dissolution of the nickel‐enriched residue, formed by dezincification, and matrix nickel.
Electrochemical Reactions and Failure Mechanism Study of Sodium‐Aqueous Polysulfide Conversion Reactions in Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Cheng Liping , Wang Bin
Published: September 2020

Low‐cost aqueous polysulfide (APS) chemistry has recently attracted intensive research as it is a promising candidate for redox flow batteries. However, the intrinsic properties, electrochemical stability, and compatibility with sodium super ionic conductor (NASICON) membrane have been rarely demonstrated to clarify the challenges on the road to practical application. Herein, a detailed study on the electrochemical reactions and failure mechanism of aqueous polysulfides is presented. Starting from investigating the intrinsic stability, the optimized concentration of NaOH is determined. Through constructing a hybrid Na‐APS cell to avoid the effect from the counterelectrode, the cycling behavior is found to be stable under the capacity cut‐off condition, while severe decay occurs after ≈80 cycles. Comprehensive analysis of the decay mechanism shows the decomposition and loss of active materials during the long‐term cycles. Meanwhile, the NASICON separator surface is found to be corrosive after electrochemical exposure with APS solution under a high‐pH environment. It is anticipated that the systematic study of the APSs’ electrochemical reactions and decay mechanism could be beneficial for their further application in redox flow batteries.
Matched Facet‐Induced Microflower‐Like Li, Ni‐Codoped Zn3V3O8/V2O3 Nanoplate Assemblies Grown on Bamboo‐Like Carbon Nanotube for High Energy Density Lithium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Bai Youcun , Hai Yang , Cui Leilei , Gong Yun
Published: September 2020

Herein, Li, Ni‐codoped Zn3V3O8/V2O3@bamboo‐like carbon nanotube (BCNT) is synthesized as an anode for a Li‐ion capacitor (LIC), which exhibits a high capacity and excellent cycling stability. The capacity retention is 91.0% after 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1. Meanwhile, the formation mechanism of the hierarchical morphology of LNZVO@C is investigated. It is expected that the formation of Zn3V3O8/V2O3 nanoplates is based on their matched d spacings, d(311)(Zn3V3O8) ≈ d(110)(V2O3). The lateral and radial (thickness) directions of the nanoplate are along Zn3V3O8 (311) and (111) facets, respectively. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the Zn2VO4 (311/111) heterointerface is thermodynamically favorable, and its good stability is associated with the charge transfer from the V atoms on the (111) surface to the V atoms on the (311) surface. Although the existence of ZnV2O4 phase is not beneficial for the formation of ZnV2O4 (311)/(111) interface, it favors the improvement of electron conductivity. Meanwhile, a KOH‐activated BCNT is designed as the cathode for LIC, which shows a relatively high capacity. The LNZVO@C//FBCNT LIC with carbon nanotube–derived cathode and anode can provide high energy densities.
Evaluating the efficiency of advanced oxidation processes for textile wastewater treatment: Electro‐kinetic, sonochemical and persulfate
Authors: Jorfi Sahand , Ghaedrahmat Zeinab
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the electro‐kinetic/ultrasonic/persulfate (EK/US/PS) process efficiency for textile wastewater treatment. The concentration of persulfate (0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5 mM), reaction time (30, 60, 90 and 120 min were studied consecutively, according to one factor at the time methodology. Result was indicated that the highest removal efficiency of 38% was achieved at pH 5. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency at electrolyte concentration of 6, 8 and 10 g/L were 56, 58 and 59% respectively. Results were showed that by increasing the ultrasonic power up to 300 W, the removal efficiency increased from 78 to 96% at a reaction time of 90 min and from 92 to 96% at a reaction time of 120 min. The correlation coefficient for pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic models were obtained 0.96 and 0.87, respectively. Therefore, according to the results of this study, it was suggested to use EK/US/PS process for treatment of textile wastewater.
The control‐oriented model of coordinated control system based on stochastic differential equations
Authors: Du Ming , Niu Yuguang , Li Hong , Zhou Zhenhua , Zhang Jingxiang , Jiang Xiaotao , Liu Rui
Published: September 2020

Considering the large‐scale development of renewable energy resources globally, control optimization of coal‐fired power plants is becoming increasingly crucial. The dynamics of the coordinated control system (CCS) must be studied prior to designing a controller. These dynamics of the subcritical units have been expressed through various modeling methods. However, in previous studies, ordinary differential equations (ODEs) have been primarily employed, which cannot reflect the uncertainties in the system. Therefore, a model with a greater accuracy should be observed to comprise uncorrelated residuals. In this study, the uncertainties in the calorific value of fired coal and combustion process were analyzed first. A normal distribution of disturbance was assumed in this process. The dynamics of the CCS were then described with stochastic differential equations (SDEs). Furthermore, a parameter estimation procedure was designed. The residual evaluation is employed to improve the model evaluation. After simulations, the SDE‐based model‐3 in this study elucidates the dynamics of the subcritical boiler‐turbine system better than the ODE‐based model and other SDE‐based models. The measured values can be regarded as a possible result of this model, rendering it a potential platform to employ stochastic model predictive control in CCS.
Internal erosion of soil pipes: Sediment rating curves for soil pipes
Authors: Wilson G.V. , Ursic M. , Fox G.A. , Nieber John L.
Published: September 2020

The collapse of soil pipes due to internal erosion can result in fully mature gullies. Few studies have measured the rates of sediment detachment and transport through soil pipes in situ. The objectives of this work were to determine suspended sediment concentration (SSC) in soil pipes as a function of pipeflow rate to develop sediment rating curves (SRC) and measure the bedload transport as a function of cumulative flow per storm event. H‐flumes were installed in seven discontinuous gullies formed by pipe collapse and instrumented for pipe discharge measurements and suspended sediment sampling. The typical response to pipeflow was an initial flush of high concentration of suspended sediment followed by a decrease as pipeflow increased (rising limb of hydrograph). Pipeflows were often so dynamic that it was difficult to consistently capture the initial flush of sediment, resulting in weak to non‐existent SRCs. The falling limb of the hydrograph tended to have a relatively low SSC. Thus, soil pipe SRCs tended to be better represented by hysteretic SRCs, although relationships between SSC and flow rate were poorly represented by SRCs. A power law equation given by SSC = aQb was adopted to represent the SRC relationships. Fitting this equation to data showed a correlation between the offset, a, and the slope, b, with the slope decreasing as the offset increases. Both SRC parameters (a and b) were correlated to the contributing area of the individual pipe. Bedload appeared to be an important contributor to sediment transport, with bedload – expressed as an average event sediment concentration (mg l−1) – decreasing as the volume of the event discharge (m3) increased. A significant portion (11–31%) of the bedload material was gravel and aggregates (>2 mm diameter material). While this work was the first to determine SRCs for soil pipes, refined sampling and measurement techniques are needed. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Process‐based modeling of nylon separator supercapacitor
Authors: Godse Laxman S. , Karkaria Vispi N. , Bhalerao Mayank J. , Karandikar Parshuram B. , Kulkarni Neelima R.
Published: September 2020

Type of separators along with the properties of electrode material, electrolytes decide the performance and hence the utility of supercapacitor. Nylon as a separator material is investigated in this paper. Comparison of parameters of nylon separator supercapacitor and polyethylene separator supercapacitor is presented. The processing of electrode materials plays a significant role on the performance parameters of supercapacitor. Material processing method such as ball milling is the most commonly used in energy storage devices such as supercapacitors, batteries, and fuel cells. The effect of variation of the most significant ball milling parameters such as forward‐reverse time, total ball milling time and speed of ball mill machine on the performance of supercapacitor has been studied. Modeling of ball milling process on electrode material is done by using the statistical method design of the experiment. Pulse current density is taken as new output parameters which is more important than capacitance and internal resistance. Forward‐reverse time, total ball milling time, and speed of ball mill machine are taken as input parameters for statistical modeling. Capacitance and pulse current density is taken as output parameters for the modeling of nylon separator supercapacitor. The model values of output parameters of supercapacitor are validated with experimental values.
Effects of biofertilizers and iron nano‐oxide on maize yield and physiological properties under optimal irrigation and drought stress conditions
Authors: Eliaspour Siamak , Seyed Sharifi Raouf , Shirkhani Ali , Farzaneh Salim
Published: September 2020

In this research, effects iron nano‐oxide and biofertilizers and chemical was investigated on the yield and some traits of Maize under normal and drought stress conditions in two years (2018 and 2019). The experiment was performed in the form of split–spilt plot in a complete random block design with three replications. The studied irrigation treatment included three levels (normal, 85% and 65% optimum water requirement) in the main plots and iron nano‐oxide at four levels (0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 g/L) in subplots, and biofertilizers at four levels (noninoculation, inoculation with mycorrhiza, inoculation with pseudomonas and combined inoculation of mycorrhiza and pseudomonas) in sub‐plots. The results showed that grain yield, 1000‐grain weight, and leaf chlorophyll contents decreased by drought stress. Use of pseudomonas and mycorrhiza increased these traits in normal and stress conditions, but iron nano‐oxide had no significant effect on the measured traits. Also, drought stress increased malondialdehyde, ion leakage, catalase, peroxidase, proline, and polyphenol oxidase in both light and severe stress regimes. The amount of antioxidant enzymes increased under drought stress conditions in corn. The results indicated that all the characteristics measured by double inoculation with Pseudomonas and Microoriza had the best performance in conditions of water shortage and the use of these biofertilizers increases yield, 1000‐seed weight, and chlorophyll content of maize. Also, the use of biofertilizers modulates the effect of drought stress and reduces its negative effects.
Tak1 in the astrocytes of mediobasal hypothalamus regulates anxiety‐like behavior in mice
Authors: Zhao Faming , Zhang Tingting , Shen Qing , Yin Kaili , Wang Yu , Zhang Guo
Published: September 2020

Anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive fear, anxiety, and avoidance of perceived threats in internal to oneself or the environment, however, the underlying mechanisms are less well understood. Here, we show that transforming growth factor‐β‐activated kinase 1 (Tak1) expressed in the astrocytes of mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) plays a crucial role in anxiety‐like behavior in mice. Our data demonstrate that deficiency of Tak1 in astrocytes increased anxiety level, but did not impact locomotor activity in mice. Astrocytic activation of Tak1 in the MBH mitigated the anxiety‐like behavior, whereas suppression of Tak1 in MBH astrocytes promoted the anxiety‐like behavior in mice. Collectively, these data suggest that Tak1 expressed in the MBH astrocytes could modulate the anxiety‐like behavior in mice.
The effects of unexpected changes in demand on the performance of emergency departments
Authors: Turner Alex J. , Anselmi Laura , Lau Yiu‐Shing , Sutton Matt
Published: September 2020

Crowding in emergency departments (EDs) is increasing in many health systems. Previous studies of the relationship between crowding and care quality are limited by the use of data from single hospitals, a focus on particular patient groups, a focus on a narrow set of quality measures, and use of crowding measures which induce bias from unobserved hospital and patient characteristics. Using data from 139 hospitals covering all major EDss in England, we measure crowding using quasi‐exogenous variation in the volume of EDs attendances and examine its impacts on indicators of performance across the entire EDs care pathway. We exploit variations from expected volume estimated using high‐dimensional fixed effects capturing hospital‐specific variation in attendances by combinations of month and hour‐of‐the‐week. Unexpected increases in attendance volume result in substantially longer waiting times, lower quantity and complexity of care, more patients choosing to leave without treatment, changes in referral and discharge decisions, but only small increases in reattendances and no increase in mortality. Causal bounds under potential omitted variable bias are narrow and exclude zero for the majority of outcomes. Results suggest that physician and patient responses may largely mitigate the impacts of demand increases on patient outcomes in the short‐run.
DCLK1, a Putative Stem Cell Marker in Human Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Nevi Lorenzo , Di Matteo Sabina , Carpino Guido , Zizzari Ilaria Grazia , Safarikia Samira , Ambrosino Valeria , Costantini Daniele , Overi Diletta , Giancotti Antonella , Monti Marco , Bosco Daniela , De Peppo Valerio , Oddi Andrea , De Rose Agostino Maria , Melandro Fabio , Bragazzi Maria Consiglia , Faccioli Jessica , Massironi Sara , Grazi Gian Luca , Benedetti Panici Pierluigi , Berloco Paquale Bartomeo , Giuliante Felice , Cardinale Vincenzo , Invernizzi Pietro , Caretti Giuseppina , Gaudio Eugenio , Alvaro Domenico
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a very aggressive cancer showing the presence of high cancer stem cells (CSCs). Doublecortin‐like kinase1 (DCLK1) has been demonstrated as a CSC marker in different gastroenterological solid tumors. Our aim was to evaluate in vitro the expression and the biological function of DCLK1 in intrahepatic CCA (iCCA) and perihilar CCA (pCCA).

Approach and Results

Specimens surgically resected of human CCA were enzymatically digested, submitted to immunosorting for specific CSC markers (LGR5 [leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor], CD [clusters of differentiation] 90, EpCAM [epithelial cell adhesion molecule], CD133, and CD13), and primary cell cultures were prepared. DCLK1 expression was analyzed in CCA cell cultures by real‐time quantitative PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence. Functional studies have been performed by evaluating the effects of selective DCLK1 inhibitor (LRRK2‐IN‐1) on cell proliferation (MTS [3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium] assay, cell population doubling time), apoptosis, and colony formation capacity. DCLK1 was investigated in situ by immunohistochemistry and real‐time quantitative PCR. DCLK1 serum concentration was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We describe DCLK1 in CCA with an increased gene and protein DCLK1 expression in pCCALGR5+ and in iCCACD133+ cells compared with unsorted cells. LRRK2‐IN‐1 showed an anti‐proliferative effect in a dose‐dependent manner. LRRK2‐IN‐1 markedly impaired cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and decreased colony formation capacity and colony size in both iCCA and pCCA compared with the untreated cells. In situ analysis confirmed that DCLK1 is present only in tumors, and not in healthy tissue. Interestingly, DCLK1 was detected in the human serum samples of patients with iCCA (high), pCCA (high), HCC (low), and cirrhosis (low), but it was almost undetectable in healthy controls.

Conclusions

DCLK1 characterizes a specific CSC subpopulation of iCCACD133+ and pCCALGR5+, and its inhibition exerts anti‐neoplastic effects in primary CCA cell cultures. Human DCLK1 serum might represent a serum biomarker for the early CCA diagnosis.
ABIDE: An Accurate Predictive Model of Liver Decompensation in Patients With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver‐Related Cirrhosis
Authors: Calzadilla‐Bertot Luis , Vilar‐Gomez Eduardo , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Romero‐Gomez Manuel , Aller‐de la Fuente Rocio , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Castellanos Marlen , Eslam Mohammed , Desai Archita P. , Jeffrey Gary P. , George Jacob , Chalasani Naga , Adams Leon A.
Published: September 2020

Background and Aims

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an increasingly important cause of liver cirrhosis and subsequent complications. We retrospectively developed and validated a model to predict hepatic decompensation in patients with NAFLD and cirrhosis and compared this with currently available models.

Approach and Results

Baseline variables from an international cohort of 299 patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD with compensated cirrhosis were examined to construct a model using competing risk multivariate regression and Akaike/Bayesian information criteria. Validation was performed in 244 patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD cirrhosis from the United States. Prognostic accuracy was compared with the NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4), Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD), Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh (CTP), and albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI)‐FIB‐4 score using time‐dependent area under the curve (tAUC) analysis. During a median follow‐up of 5.6 years (range 2.4‐14.1) and 5.4 years (range 1.5‐13.8), hepatic decompensation occurred in 81 and 132 patients in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. In the derivation cohort, independent predictors of hepatic decompensation (Aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase ratio, Bilirubin, International normalized ratio, type 2 Diabetes, and Esophageal varices) were combined into the ABIDE model. Patients with a score ≥4.1 compared with those with a score <4.1 had a higher risk of decompensation (subhazard ratio, 6.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.0‐11.2; P < 0.001), a greater 5‐year cumulative incidence (37% vs. 6%, P < 0.001), and shorter mean duration to decompensation (3.8 vs 6.7 years, P < 0.001). The accuracy of the ABIDE model at 5 years was good in the derivation (tAUC, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.73‐0.84) and validation cohorts (0.78; 95% CI, 0.74‐0.81) and was significantly more accurate than the NFS (0.72), FIB‐4 (0.74), MELD (0.69), CTP (0.72), and ALBI‐FIB‐4 (0.73) (all P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In patients with NAFLD and compensated cirrhosis, ABIDE, a predictive model of routine clinical measures, predicts future hepatic decompensation.
Internet Published Policies Regarding Liver Transplant Eligibility and Substance Use in United States Transplant Centers
Authors: German Margarita N. , Eccleston Jason L. , Tamez Diego A. , Remington Patrick L. , Lucey Michael R.
Published: September 2020

Liver transplant centers in the United States retain great autonomy in determining eligibility criteria for a liver transplant. This study aims to define the availability and content of liver transplant centers' publicly available Internet policies regarding eligibility criteria for liver transplant. Three trained undergraduate students performed a structured pilot‐tested assessment of official websites of the United Network for Organ Sharing‐registered liver transplant centers. All 141 liver transplant centers had an accessible website. Some account of eligibility criteria was provided by 53% of centers, while 32% of centers discussed substance use. Only 17% discussed their policy regarding alcohol use in candidates with underlying alcohol use disorder, and only 2% stipulated that 6 months of abstinence was required. While exclusion based on substance use or age was discussed infrequently, insurance coverage requirements, the need for social support, and the need for adherence to medical care were mentioned in 21%, 37%, and 23% of centers, respectively. Conclusion: In 2018, half of liver transplant centers provided some information on their official websites regarding eligibility criteria for liver transplant. Detailed information regarding substance use disorders and social health requirements was rare. The Internet is infrequently used by liver transplant centers as a means to publicly share information regarding selection criteria.
Facile Synthesis of 2‐Fluorobenzofurans: 5‐endo‐trig Cyclization of β,β‐Difluoro‐o‐hydroxystyrenes
Authors: Morioka Ryutaro , Fujita Takeshi , Ichikawa Junji
Published: September 2020

Efficient synthetic methods were established for obtaining 2‐fluorobenzofurans involving various substituents. Upon being treated with 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene under microwave irradiation, the α‐unsubstituted β,β‐difluoro‐o‐hydroxystyrenes underwent nucleophilic 5‐endo‐trig cyclization to afford the corresponding 2‐fluorobenzofurans in high yields. Furthermore, 2‐fluoro‐3‐iodobenzofuran was successfully synthesized, and its transformation to various 3‐substituted 2‐fluorobenzofurans was demonstrated.
Consolidation with 90Yttrium‐ibritumomab tiuxetan after bendamustine and rituximab for relapsed follicular lymphoma
Authors: Miura Katsuhiro , Tsujimura Hideki , Masaki Yasufumi , Iino Masaki , Takizawa Jun , Maeda Yoshinobu , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Tamura Shinobu , Yoshida Akiyo , Yagi Hideo , Yoshida Isao , Kitazume Koichi , Masunari Taro , Choi Ilseung , Kakinoki Yasutaka , Suzuki Ritsuro , Yoshino Tadashi , Nakamura Shigeo , Hatta Yoshihiro , Yoshida Takashi , Kanno Masatoshi
Published: September 2020

Bendamustine and rituximab (BR) are widely used in patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) previously treated with conventional immunochemotherapy, but the role of consolidation radioimmunotherapy in these patients is unknown. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of consolidation with 90Yttrium‐ibritumomab tiuxetan (90Y‐IT) after re‐induction therapy with BR in patients with previously treated FL. This study included adult patients with relapsed FL who had undergone one or two prior therapies. Re‐induction therapy with BR was administered every 4 weeks up to 4–6 cycles. If patients achieved at least partial response, 90Y‐IT was administered as consolidation therapy. The primary endpoint was 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) after consolidation. A total of 24 FL patients (median age 60 years) who had undergone one (n = 17) or two (n = 7) prior treatments received BR. After BR therapy, 22 patients proceeded to consolidation with 90Y‐IT, resulting in an overall 88% response rate to the protocol treatment. Within a median observation period of 46.8 months, the estimated 2‐year PFS rate after the consolidation among the 22 patients receiving 90Y‐IT was 59% (95% confidence interval [CI], 38%–77%). Patients whose remission after previous treatment had lasted ≥2 years had a significantly higher 2‐year PFS rate than patients whose remission after previous treatment had been <2 years (68% vs. 33%, Wilcoxon p = 0.0211). Major adverse events during the protocol treatment and within 2 years after the consolidation were hematological toxicities, but they were generally acceptable. Consequently, the estimated 2‐year overall survival after the consolidation was 95% (95% CI, 74%–99%). In conclusion, in a subset of patients with previously treated FL, 90Y‐IT consolidation after BR re‐induction conferred a durable remission, indicating that consolidation therapy using 90Y‐IT may be a novel therapeutic option for patients with relapsed FL (UMIN000008793).
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma having 8q24/MYC rearrangement in Japan
Authors: Takahashi Tsutomu , Suzuki Ritsuro , Yamamoto Go , Nakazawa Hideyuki , Kurosawa Mitsutoshi , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Okada Masaya , Akasaka Takashi , Kim Sung‐Won , Fukuda Takahiro , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Suzumiya Junji
Published: September 2020

The prognosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) having MYC rearrangement (MYC‐R), including double hit lymphoma (DHL), is poor by standard immunochemotherapy. To evaluate the significance of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) for DLBCL with MYC‐R, we retrospectively analyzed Japanese SCT registry data. In total, 54 patients with DLBCL with MYC‐R were identified from 4336 registered adult DLBCL patients. Detailed clinical and cytogenetic information was obtained for 48 patients. The median age at diagnosis of the 48 patients was 54.5 (range 21–67) years. Twenty‐six (54%) patients had MYC‐R only (single hit), and 22 (46%) had MYC‐R and BCL2, and/or BCL6 rearrangement (double/triple hit). In 12 patients who received auto‐SCT during the first complete response (CR), both the 2‐year overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) rates were 75.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 40.8%–91.2%). In 20 patients who received auto‐SCT after relapsed or refractory state, the 2‐year OS and PFS rates were 68.2% (95% CI, 41.9%–84.5%) and 59.6% (95% CI, 35.1%–77.4%), respectively. In 17 patients who received allo‐SCT, only 4 patients underwent SCT in CR. The 2‐year OS and PFS rates were 29.4% (95% CI, 10.7%–51.1%) and 17.6% (95% CI, 4.3%–38.3%), respectively. The rate of non‐relapse mortality at 1 year was 41.2% (95% CI, 17.1%–64.0%) in this group. The outcomes of single hit and double or triple hit were not different. These findings suggest that auto‐SCT may be effective for MYC‐R DLBCL, including DHL patients of chemosensitive relapsed or refractory state. Since most patients received allo‐SCT not in CR, the outcome of allo‐SCT was unsatisfactory due to high non‐relapse mortality and early relapse. To clarify the role of allo‐SCT for MYC‐R DLBCL, further accumulation of patients is necessary.
Dissolved organic carbon transport in the Qilian mountainous areas of China
Authors: Zhu Guofeng , Wan Qiaozhuo , Yong Leilei , Li Qiaoqiao , Zhang Zhiyuan , Guo Huiwen , Zhang Yu , Sun Zhigang , Zhang Zhuanxia , Ma Huiying
Published: September 2020

The Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) content of rivers is the most significant part of the carbon cycle migration in the basin under consideration, and it is the basis for a comprehensive understanding of the regional carbon cycle. In this study, we periodically collected samples from four monitoring stations in the Xiying River Basin of the Qilian Mountains in the northern Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau. We calculated the fluxes of organic carbon in the rivers within the study area and have discussed the influencing factors of DOC concentration in these rivers. The results showed that: (a) The DOC concentration and transport flux of the Xiying river showed significant seasonal changes. The DOC concentration during summer and autumn was higher than that in winter and spring, and the output flux in summer and autumn accounted for approximately 88.3% of the total annual output. (b) Precipitation runoff has a higher DOC concentration than meltwater runoff. Climate factors, river‐water chemical characteristics, and seasonal frozen‐soil changes in the river basin have significant effects on the river DOC concentration and transport flux. (c) Larger runoff causes higher DOC concentrations in rivers. Runoff is the primary means of carbon migration in the inland river basin. Carbon migration is significant from the upstream to the middle and downstream sections of the inland river basin.
Adverse caregiving in early life: The trauma and deprivation distinction in young children
Authors: Guyon‐Harris Katherine L. , Humphreys Kathryn L. , Zeanah Charles H.
Published: September 2020

Knowledge and understanding about the impact of cumulative adverse experiences on the health and wellbeing of children, adolescents, and adults has rapidly expanded over the past 30 years. Despite the invaluable attention and support this proliferation has drawn to the importance of early childhood experiences, we believe that it is time to move beyond broad indices of risk and toward more specific and individualized understanding of how risk exposures are linked to clinical outcomes in young children. Within infant and early childhood mental health, there is a need for greater specificity in linking adverse caregiving experiences in early life to psychopathology in children. We highlight a framework distinguishing experiences of trauma from experiences of deprivation and use the examples of posttraumatic stress disorder and reactive attachment disorder to demonstrate how greater specificity in our understanding of early adverse caregiving can lead to more accurate and targeted diagnosis and treatment for young children. Both researchers and clinicians benefit from an approach to gain a greater appreciation of the links between specific types of experiences and outcomes in the children that we serve.
Therapeutic prognosis of prostate cancer using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering of patient urine and multivariate statistical analysis
Authors: Ma Yiwei , Chi Jingmao , Zheng Zhaoyu , Attygalle Athula , Kim Isaac Yi , Du Henry
Published: September 2020

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is highly sensitive and label‐free analytical technique based on Raman spectroscopy aided by field‐multiplying plasmonic nanostructures. We report the use of SERS measurements of patient urine in conjunction with biostatistical algorithms to assess the treatment response of prostate cancer (PCa) in 12 recurrent (Re) and 63 nonrecurrent (NRe) patient cohorts. Multiple Raman spectra are collected from each urine sample using monodisperse silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for Raman signal enhancement. Genetic algorithms‐partial least squares‐linear discriminant analysis (GA‐PLS‐LDA) was employed to analyze the Raman spectra. Comprehensive GA‐PLS‐LDA analyses of these Raman spectral features (p = 3.50 × 10−16) yield an accuracy of 86.6%, sensitivity of 86.0%, and specificity 87.1% in differentiating the Re and NRe cohorts. Our study suggests that SERS combined with multivariate GA‐PLS‐LDA algorithm can potentially be used to detect and monitor the risk of PCa relapse and to aid with decision‐making for optimal intermediate secondary therapy to recurred patients.
Structural basis of BMP‐2 and BMP‐7 interactions with antagonists Gremlin‐1 and Noggin in Glioblastoma tumors
Authors: Choudhuri Kesaban Sankar Roy , Mishra Seema
Published: September 2020

In Glioblastoma (GBM) brain tumors, both Gremlin‐1 and Noggin are reported to bind to BMP and inhibit BMP‐signaling, thereby allowing the cell to maintain tumorous morphology. Enlisting the interfacial residues important for protein–protein complex formation between BMPs (BMP‐2 and BMP‐7) and antagonists (Gremlin‐1 and Noggin), we analyzed the structural basis of their interactions. We found possible key mutations that destabilize these complexes, which may prevent GBM development. It was also observed that when the interfacial residues were either mutated to histidine or tryptophan, it led to higher destabilization energy values. Besides, our study of the Noggin interactive model of BMP‐2 suggested preferential binding at binding site II over binding site I. In the case of Gremlin‐1 and BMPs, our research, along with few previous studies, indicates a close‐ended cis‐trans interactive model.
Correlation between single nucleotide polymorphisms in CXCR4 microRNA binding site and the susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis in Han Chinese population
Authors: Wang Yang , Li Yanlin , Jia Di , Zheng Jiali , Wang Guoliang
Published: September 2020

Background

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the microRNA target sequence in CXCR4 and the susceptibility to knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

A total of 305 patients with KOA and 305 healthy controls were recruited into this study. The genotypes of CXCR4 rs1804029 and rs17848060 loci were analyzed.

Results

The susceptibility to KOA of CXCR4 rs1804029 G allele carriers was 1.33 times (95% CI: 1.09‐1.54, P = .006) that of T allele carriers. The KOA susceptibility in individuals carrying T allele at CXCR4 rs17848060 locus was 1.38 times that of individuals carrying A allele (95% CI: 1.17‐1.57, P < .001). The G allele at CXCR4 rs1804029 locus was the target of hsa‐miR‐146a‐3p, while the A allele at CXCR4 rs17848060 locus could be targeted by hsa‐miR‐20a‐3p. The plasma level of hsa‐miR‐146a‐3p was lower in rs1804029 G allele carriers than T allele carriers (P < .001), whereas plasma level of hsa‐miR‐20a‐3p was higher in rs17848060 T allele carriers than A allele carriers (P < .001).

Conclusion

The SNPs at rs1804029 and rs17848060 loci in CXCR4 were significantly associated with the susceptibility to KOA in Han Chinese population.
A rod‐like mesoporous carbon derived from agro‐industrial cassava petiole waste for supercapacitor application
Authors: Taer Erman , Apriwandi Apriwandi , Dalimunthe Bima Kumala Levanadea , Taslim Rika
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Agro‐industrial co‐products rich in lignocellulose, for example cassava petiole (CP) waste, have high potential as sources of porous carbon materials, alongside other impressive advantages, including ease of acquisition, abundance and availability, renewability and low cost. This work shows the successful treatment of mesoporous carbon with rod‐like structure derived from agro‐industrial CP waste carbonized and physically activated by direct one‐stage integrated pyrolysis using a zinc chloride (ZnCl2) activator agent, in the production of a supercapacitor electrode for energy storage. The ZnCl2 was tested at varying concentrations, including 0.5, 0.7 and 0.9 mol L–1. The surface morphology, chemical content, surface area and porous size distribution were evaluated to determine the physical properties of activated carbon, and a cyclic voltammetry method was used to assess the electrochemical characteristics using a two‐electrode system in 1 mol L–1 H2SO4 as an electrolyte.

RESULTS

The porous carbon obtained displayed a rod‐like morphology structure, featuring numerous hierarchical tuneable and well‐confirmed micropores and mesopores. This monolithic material contained predominantly C (87.85%), demonstrating a maximum surface area of 759.816 m2 g−1 at 0.9 mol L–1 concentration. Furthermore, the highest specific capacitance reached was 193 F g−1 at 0.7 mol L–1, with maximum energy and power densities of 26.90 Wh kg−1 and 96.94 W kg−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The novel rod‐like mesoporous carbon derived from CP waste produced using a facile, cost‐effective and sustainable method, without metal–organic framework or templates, shows great potential as an electrode material for enhanced supercapacitor performance. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Development of a novel integrated educational relative‐unit value system to assess dental students' clinical performance
Authors: Agou Shoroog Hassan , Imam Ahmad Yahya
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The use of relative unit values (RUVs) to assess students’ clinical productivity is common in dental education. However, there are large variations on how RUVs are defined, developed, validated, and reported across institutions. This study described the development of a novel educational RUV system.

Methods

A preparatory phase of literature review and methodological gap analysis, followed by initial conception, pilot testing, and a 2‐round modified Delphi process were conducted. Panelists reviewed the procedure list, nomenclature, purpose of development, basis of calculation of RUVs, and the relative weights of different dental procedures. Also, their perception of the usefulness, fairness, and practicality of the system was assessed. Agreement was set at 80%.

Results

Eight published educational RUV systems were identified. These data guided the initial conception of the novel Integrated Educational RUVs (IERUVs). Five experts reviewed the system and it was piloted for a full educational cycle. Feedback from faculty and students was used to adjust over‐ or under‐estimated RUVs, with deconstruction of multi‐step procedures. Fifteen experts participated in the second Delphi round (71% response rate). Consensus was reached for 105 procedural RUVs. A total of 93% of the panelists agreed the system was useful, while 71% perceived it as fair and practical.

Conclusion(s)

Content validity of the new educational RUV was established. The system provides a promising tool for assessing dental students’ clinical performance, as it provides a unified base unit to assess clinical productivity, clinical competence, and comprehensive care cases. Longitudinal evaluations in different contexts are needed to confirm IERUVs validity.
Initial symptoms of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 in Japan: A descriptive study
Authors: Komagamine Junpei , Yabuki Taku
Published: September 2020

Fever, cough, malaise, and sore throat are the most common initial symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). However, no studies have ever been conducted to investigate the initial symptoms of COVID‐19 in Japan. By using publicly available data, we investigated 707 consecutive COVID‐19 patients who were diagnosed in 10 prefectures of Japan prior to May 16, 2020. The primary outcomes were the initial symptoms on the day of symptom onset. The proportions of patients with each symptom among the symptomatic patients were calculated. Of all the patients, 79 (11.2%) were asymptomatic. Among the 628 symptomatic patients, the most common initial symptom was fever (65.9%), followed by cough (23.5%), malaise (23.5%), and sore throat (12.9%). At least one of these four symptoms was reported in 88.2% of all symptomatic patients. Nineteen patients (3.0%) reported gastrointestinal symptoms without respiratory symptoms, while six patients (1.0%) reported only the loss of smell or taste as the initial symptom. As in other countries, the most common initial symptoms of COVID‐19 in Japan are fever, cough, malaise, and sore throat. Gastrointestinal symptoms without respiratory symptoms and the loss of smell and taste are uncommon initial symptoms in Japan.
Design, synthesis, characterization and antimicrobial evaluation of some novel hydrazinecarbothioamide, 4‐thiazolidinone and 1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thione derivatives
Authors: Dincel Efe Doğukan , Ulusoy‐Güzeldemirci Nuray , Şatana Dilek , Küçükbasmacı Ömer
Published: September 2020

A series of novel hydrazinecarbothioamide (5a,c,f), 4‐thiazolidinone (6a‐e), and 1,2,4‐triazole‐3‐thione (7a‐d) were designed and synthesized. The structural elucidations of the novel compounds were performed by IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, mass and elemental analysis. All novel derivatives were evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against nine diverse microorganisms. According to the biological activity studies of the compounds, 6d, 7c and 7d displayed hope promising antibacterial activity. Furthermore, 6d displayed potent antifungal activity. Consequently, the obtained results revealed that 6d, 7c and 7d present a leading structure for future drug development due to its straightforward synthesis and relevant bioactivity.
Prediction Model Combining Clinical and MR Data for Diagnosis of Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients With Rectal Cancer
Authors: Xu Hanshan , Zhao Wenyuan , Guo Wenbing , Cao Shaodong , Gao Chao , Song Tiantian , Yang Liping , Liu Yanlong , Han Yu , Zhang Lingbo , Wang Kezheng
Published: September 2020

Background

Determining the status of lymph node (LN) metastasis in rectal cancer patients preoperatively is crucial for the treatment option. However, the diagnostic accuracy of current imaging methods is low.

Purpose

To develop and test a model for predicting metastatic LNs of rectal cancer patients based on clinical data and MR images to improve the diagnosis of metastatic LNs.

Study type

Retrospective.

Subjects

In all, 341 patients with histologically confirmed rectal cancer were divided into one training set (120 cases) and three validation sets (69, 103, 49 cases).

Field strength/sequence

3.0T, axial and sagittal T2‐weighted turbo spin echo and diffusion‐weighted imaging (b = 0 s/mm2, 800 s/mm2)

Assessment

In the training dataset, univariate logistic regression was used to identify the clinical factors (age, gender, and tumor markers) and MR data that correlated with LN metastasis. Then we developed a prediction model with these factors by multiple logistic regression analysis. The accuracy of the model was verified using three validation sets and compared with the traditional MRI method.

Statistical tests

Univariate and multivariate logistic regression. The area under the curve (AUC) value was used to quantify the diagnostic accuracy of the model.

Results

Eight factors (CEA, CA199, ADCmean, mriT stage, mriN stage, CRM, EMVI, and differentiation degree) were significantly associated with LN metastasis in rectal cancer patients (P<0.1). In the training set (120) and the three validation sets (69, 103, 49), the AUC values of the model were much higher than the diagnosis by MR alone (training set, 0.902 vs. 0.580; first validation set, 0.789 vs. 0.743; second validation set, 0.774 vs. 0.573; third validation set, 0.761 vs. 0.524).

Data Conclusion

For the diagnosis of metastatic LNs in rectal cancer patients, our proposed logistic regression model, combining clinical and MR data, demonstrated higher diagnostic efficiency than MRI alone.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

2