bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Premedication with montelukast and rupatadine decreased rituximab infusion time, rate, severity of reactions and use of rescue medications
Authors: Kotchetkov Rouslan , McLean Jesse , Nay Derek , Gerard Lauren , Hopkins Sean , Didiodato Giulio
Published: March 2020

Rituximab‐associated infusion reactions (IRs) are significant burdens on oncology patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. We evaluated whether montelukast and rupatadine improve rituximab delivery, decrease frequency/severity of IRs and the number of medications used to control IRs. Using a nonrandomized clinical study design, we assessed adult rituximab naïve patients with B‐cell lymphoid malignancies from January 2017 to July 2019. Prior to the first rituximab infusion patients received one of the premedication regimens: (i) standard premedications, diphenhydramine hydrochloride and acetaminophen (“SP” group); (ii) SP + montelukast (“M” group); (iii) SP + rupatadine (“R” group); (iv) SP + rupatadine + montelukast Schedule 1 (“M + R Schedule 1” group); (v) SP + rupatadine + montelukast Schedule 2 (“M + R Schedule 2” group). A total of 223 patients with a median age of 69 years were assessed. Demographics and treatment groups were comparable among all five groups. Mean rituximab infusion time was 290 min in the SP group versus 273, 261, 243 and 236 min in the M, R, M + R Schedule 1 and M + R Schedule 2 groups, respectively. The incidence of rituximab IRs was 75% in the SP group versus 44, 41, 22 and 22% in the M, R, M + R Schedule 1 and M + R Schedule 2 groups, respectively. The median reaction grade was 2 in the SP group and 0 in all other groups. The median number of rescue medications was 3 in the SP group and 0 in all other groups. In conclusion, montelukast and rupatadine significantly improved rituximab delivery, decreased the rate and severity of IRs and reduced the need for rescue medications.
Bioreactor cultivation condition for engineered bone tissue: Effect of various bioreactor designs on extra cellular matrix synthesis
Authors: Nokhbatolfoghahaei Hanieh , Bohlouli Mahboubeh , Paknejad Zahrasadat , R. Rad Maryam , M. Amirabad Leila , Salehi‐Nik Nasim , Khani Mohammad M. , Shahriari Shayan , Nadjmi Nasser , Ebrahimpour Adel , Khojasteh Arash
Published: March 2020

Dynamic‐based systems are bio‐designed in order to mimic the micro‐environments of the bone tissue. There is limited direct comparison between perfusion and perfusion‐rotation forces in designing a bioreactor. Hence, in current study, we aimed to compare given bioreactors for bone regeneration. Two types of bioreactors including rotating & perfusion and perfusion bioreactors were designed. Mesenchymal stem cells derived from buccal fat pad were loaded on a gelatin/β‐Tricalcium phosphate scaffold. Cell‐scaffold constructs were subjected to different treatment condition and place in either of the bioreactors. Effect of different dynamic conditions on cellular behavior including cell proliferation, cell adhesion, and osteogenic differentiation were assessed. Osteogenic assessment of scaffolds after 24 days revealed that rotating & perfusion bioreactor led to significantly higher expression of OCN and RUNX2 genes and also greater amount of ALP and collagen I protein production compared to static groups and perfusion bioreactor. Observation of cellular sheets which filled the scaffold porosities in SEM images, approved the better cell responses to rotating & perfusion forces of the bioreactor. The outcomes demonstrated that rotating & perfusion bioreactor action on bone regeneration is much preferable than perfusion bioreactor. Therefore, it seems that exertion of multi‐stimuli is more effective for bone engineering.
Micro‐ and nano‐bone analyses of the human mandible coronoid process and tendon‐bone entheses
Authors: Kasahara Masaaki , Matsunaga Satoru , Someya Tomoko , Kitamura Kei , Odaka Kento , Ishimoto Takuya , Nakano Takayoshi , Abe Shinichi , Hattori Masayuki
Published: March 2020

The coronoid process provides attachment to temporalis and masseter muscles, and thus plays an important role in mastication. Tendons connect muscles and bones, mediating the transmission of functional loads to bones. Thus, tendon–bone entheses govern mechanical stress in bones. The preferential orientation of biological apatite (BAp) crystallites, the main mineral component in bones, is an important index for bone quality and function, and is largely influenced by locally applied stress. In this study, we analyzed BAp orientation, Young's modulus, and bone mineral density (BMD) at different sites in the human coronoid process. No differences in BMD were found among the analyzed sites, but BAp crystal orientation was observed to differ. BAp crystallites showed a uni‐directional orientation in the mesiodistal direction at the coronoid process apex, but were oriented in the direction vertical to the occlusal plane at other sites. Young's modulus tended to vary according to the BAp orientation. At the apex, a tendon form with characteristics different from those at other sites, including the presence of a fibrocartilaginous layer that may act as a stretching brake to control stress concentration, was observed. These findings suggest that the functional pressure of the temporalis muscle affects bone quality and strength.
Evaluation the synergistic antitumor effect of methotrexate–camptothecin codelivery prodrug from self‐assembly process to acid‐catalyzed both drugs release: A comprehensive theoretical study
Authors: Pakdel Majid , Raissi Heidar , Hosseini Seyede T.
Published: March 2020

Therapeutic efficiency of amphiphilic methotrexate–camptothecin (MTX‐CPT) prodrug compared to free drug mixture (MTX/CPT) has been investigated using all‐atom molecular dynamics simulation and first principles density functional theory calculations. This comparison revealed that MTX–CPT prodrug tends to form spherical self‐assembled nanoparticle (NP), while free MTX/CPT mixture forms rod‐shape NP. These observations are attributed to a structural defect in the MTX–CPT prodrug and solvation free energies of MTX, CPT and MTX‐CPT molecules. The results provided evidence that noncovalent interactions (NCIs) among the pharmaceutical drugs play a very important role in anticancer agents aggregation process, leading to enhanced stability of the self‐assembled NPs. It is found that the stability of MTX–CPT self‐assembled NP is greater than the MTX/CPT NP due to the synergistic effect of hydrogen bonding between monomers and solvent (water). Moreover, the noncatalyzed as well as catalyzed hydrolysis reactions of MTX–CPT prodrug are theoretically studied at the PCM(water)//M06‐2X/6−31G(d,p) computational level to shed additional light on the role of acidic condition in tumor tissues. We found that the ester hydrolysis in mild acidic solutions is a concerted reaction. In an agreement between theory and experiment, we also confirmed that the activation energies of the catalyzed‐hydrolysis steps are much lower than the activation energies of the corresponding steps in the noncatalyzed reaction. Thus, the MTX–CPT prodrug reveals very promising properties as a pH‐controlled drug delivery system.
Impact of preoperative aspirin continuation on bleeding complications during or after liver resection: Propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Naito Shigetoshi , Fujikawa Takahisa , Hasegawa Suguru
Published: March 2020

Background

There is insufficient evidence concerning the effect of preoperative continuation of antiplatelet therapy (APT) on intraoperative and postoperative bleeding during liver resection. This study investigated the efficacy and safety of preoperative aspirin continuation on bleeding complications during or after liver resection using propensity score matching (PSM).

Methods

Between 2005 and 2018, 425 patients who underwent liver resection were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into two groups; the cAPT group received continued aspirin monotherapy preoperatively (n = 63) and the control group did not (n = 362). Propensity score matching was performed based on the preoperative clinical parameters. Intraoperative and postoperative complications, including bleeding complications, were compared between groups.

Results

After propensity score matching, 126 patients were included in the analysis (cAPT group, n = 63 and control group, n = 63). There were no differences in patients’ background characteristics, and intraoperative blood loss was identical between the groups (200 vs 180 mL, P = .54). The frequency of postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo class 2 or higher, 13/63 [20.6%] vs 13/63 [20.6%], P = 1.00) and postoperative hemorrhagic complication (3/63 [4.8%] vs 3/63 [4.8%], P = 1.00) was also similar between the groups; no difference was observed in the length of postoperative stay (11 days vs 14 days, P = .08).

Conclusion

Preoperative continuation of aspirin monotherapy does not affect intraoperative or postoperative bleeding in patients receiving liver resection. Either open or laparoscopic liver resection can be safely performed in patients with continued aspirin therapy.
Emerging MRI Techniques to Redefine Treatment Response in Patients With Glioblastoma
Authors: Gonçalves Fabrício Guimarães , Chawla Sanjeev , Mohan Suyash
Published: March 2020

Glioblastoma is the most common and most malignant primary brain tumor. Despite aggressive multimodal treatment, its prognosis remains poor. Even with continuous developments in MRI, which has provided us with newer insights into the diagnosis and understanding of tumor biology, response assessment in the posttherapy setting remains challenging. We believe that the integration of additional information from advanced neuroimaging techniques can further improve the diagnostic accuracy of conventional MRI. In this article, we review the utility of advanced neuroimaging techniques such as diffusion‐weighted imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, perfusion‐weighted imaging, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and chemical exchange saturation transfer in characterizing and evaluating treatment response in patients with glioblastoma. We will also discuss the existing challenges and limitations of using these techniques in clinical settings and possible solutions to avoiding pitfalls in study design, data acquisition, and analysis for future studies.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:978–997.
Alert for non‐respiratory symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 patients in epidemic period: A case report of familial cluster with three asymptomatic COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Lu Shubiao , Lin Jinsong , Zhang Zhiqiao , Xiao Liping , Jiang Zhijian , Chen Jia , Hu Chongjing , Luo Shi
Published: March 2020

At present, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is rampaging around the world. However, asymptomatic carriers intensified the difficulty of prevention and management. Here we reported the screening, clinical features, and treatment process of a family cluster involving three COVID‐19 patients. The discovery of the first asymptomatic carrier in this family cluster depends on the repeated and comprehensive epidemiological investigation by disease control experts. In addition, the combination of multiple detection methods can help clinicians find asymptomatic carriers as early as possible. In conclusion, the prevention and control experience of this family cluster showed that comprehensive rigorous epidemiological investigation and combination of multiple detection methods were of great value for the detection of hidden asymptomatic carriers.
The Impact of Affective States and Affective Shifts on Creative Ideation and Evaluation
Authors: Lai Yu‐Chun , Peng Shu‐Ling , Huang Po‐Sheng , Chen Hsueh‐Chih
Published: March 2020

This study aims to examine the impact of affective states and affective shifts on ideation and evaluation of creativity. Affects were induced by a two‐stage imagination procedure of recalling autobiographical experiences. Three periods of divergent thinking were measured to represent the participants’ creative ideation at different times. Creative evaluation was measured by estimating the originality of each response provided by the participants. The results indicate that (a) during the initial period of ideation, groups with positive affect obtain better creative ideation than the groups with neutral or negative affect. (b) The ideation in positive affect groups gradually decreases over time, while the ideation in negative affect groups gradually increases over time. (c) During the evaluation of originality, groups with negative affect have a higher proportion of over‐estimates and a lower proportion of under‐estimates than groups with positive affect. The viewpoints of cognitive tuning theory, which posit that the affective state influences creativity, are supported.
Recent development of soluble hole injection material for OLED display
Authors: Monzen Kazuhiro , Maeda Daisuke , Higashi Masayuki , Endo Toshiyuki
Published: March 2020

We developed soluble hole injection materials and inks, named ELsource, that can be used as hole injection layer in organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) display. OLED is an optical device. Therefore, we developed the hole injection materials with optical properties necessary for an optical device.
Structure and Conformation of a Crystalline P3HT Film Adsorbed on an Alkanethiol Self‐Assembled Monolayer Deposited on Gold
Authors: Skountzos Emmanuel N. , von Wrochem Florian , Mavrantzas Vlasis G.
Published: March 2020

All‐atom molecular dynamics simulations are performed to investigate the structural and conformational properties of a regioregular poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) crystal in the presence of a gold (Au) substrate terminated with an n‐alkanethiol self‐assembled monolayer (SAM). The employed orientation of the P3HT crystals deposited on the SAM is the edge‐on, since this orientation is believed to be the most energetically favorable and stable, also yielding the highest charge carrier mobility in organic thin‐film transistors. The unit cell of the overall Au/SAM interfacial layer is obtained through detailed ab initio calculations. Systems with a varying number of P3HT stacks on the Au/SAM substrate are studied with an all‐atom force field in order to elucidate the effect of polymer thickness on the structural properties of the system. All final structures are found to be stable and well‐equilibrated. Insights into the P3HT crystal structure are provided for the P3HT layers in direct contact with the SAM, but also for those deeper in the polymer film. According to the simulations, the majority of conformational and packing properties of the P3HT film are practically similar to those of the bulk crystalline P3HT material, implying that its structure remains unaffected by the presence of the underlying Au/SAM substrate.
Movement Disorders in Genetic Pediatric Ataxias
Authors: Gana Simone , Valente Enza Maria
Published: March 2020

Background

Genetic pediatric ataxias are heterogeneous rare disorders, mainly inherited as autosomal‐recessive traits. Most forms are progressive and lack effective treatment, with relevant socioeconomical impact. Albeit ataxia represents the main clinical feature, the phenotype can be more complex, with additional neurological and nonneurological signs being described in several forms.

Methods and Results

In this review, we provide an overview of the occurrence and spectrum of movement disorders in the most relevant forms of childhood‐onset genetic ataxias. All types of hypokinetic and hyperkinetic movement disorders of variable severity have been reported. Movement disorders occasionally represent the symptom of onset, predating ataxia even of a few years and therefore challenging an early diagnosis. Their pathogenesis still remains poorly defined, as it is not yet clear whether movement disorders may directly relate to the cerebellar pathology or result from an extracerebellar dysfunction, including the basal ganglia.

Conclusion

Recognition of the complete movement disorder phenotype in genetic pediatric ataxias has important implications for diagnosis, management, and genetic counseling.
Clinical Impact of Deep Brain Stimulation on the Autonomic System in Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Bellini Gabriele , Best Laura A. , Brechany Una , Mills Russell , Pavese Nicola
Published: March 2020

Background

The role of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the management of motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease is well defined. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that DBS can either improve or worsen a number of non‐motor phenomena.

Objectives

We examined the published literature to better understand the effects on autonomic symptoms following DBS of the subthalamic nucleus and the globus pallidus interna.

Methods

We conducted a PubMed search of studies regarding the effects of DBS on the autonomic system published from January 2001. We searched for the following terms and their combinations: Parkinson's disease, deep brain stimulation, subthalamic nucleus, globus pallidus interna, autonomic dysfunction.

Results

Most studies reported in the literature focus on DBS targeting the subthalamic nucleus, with particular emphasis on favorable outcomes regarding gastrointestinal function and bladder control. However, the emergence or worsening of autonomic symptoms in subgroups of patients has also been documented. More controversial is the effect of stimulation on the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and thermo‐regulatory systems as well as sexual functioning. Data regarding the influence of DBS on the autonomic system when the target is the globus pallidus interna is less forthcoming, with target selection varying according to centre and clinical indication.

Conclusions

DBS appears to affect the autonomic nervous system, with varying degrees of influence, which may or may not be clinically beneficial for the patient. A better understanding of these effects could help personalize stimulation for individual patients with autonomic disorders and/or avoid autonomic symptoms in susceptible patients.
Outcomes of a conservative care program for knee osteoarthritis through translation of research into practice
Authors: Ross Andrew , Gascon Gregg M. , Snow Richard , Sawchyn Greg , DeRoads Kristin , Ruane Joseph J.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Evidence‐based guidelines suggest a conservative, nonsurgical approach as first‐line treatment for knee osteoarthritis. However, previous literature has documented underutilization of the fundamental components of condition management emphasized in the guidelines. The intervention aim is to apply organized conservative components of care for knee osteoarthritis in an evidence‐based management program through the translation of research into practice with a target to observe meaningful functional improvement in a distinct population.

Methods

The program, modeled after the nonsurgical arm of a randomized, controlled trial, was designed as a single‐arm observational cohort study with a pre‐ and post‐program comparison for participants reporting presence of knee osteoarthritis who were attributed to a specific employer's health plan in the United States. The 12‐week intervention consisted of condition education, group exercise, and a dietary intervention.

Results

Ninety‐six participants enrolled in the program, of which 72% completed the protocol. The median change in pre‐ to post‐program Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score values was 10.4 ± 0.8 (Z = 210.5, p < 0.001)—a clinically important change. Secondary outcomes were complementary to the primary outcome.

Conclusions

Results of the program indicate that the clinically significant 3‐month findings in the report by Skou et al. (2015) regarding functional improvement can be replicated in an alternate setting. Organizing and offering fundamental components of condition management in a group format with provider oversight could be a feasible and logical component in the continuum of care for knee osteoarthritis, while complementing other secondary management strategies following diagnosis.
Hyperpolarized 13C MRI data acquisition and analysis in prostate and brain at University of California, San Francisco
Authors: Crane Jason C. , Gordon Jeremy W. , Chen Hsin‐Yu , Autry Adam W. , Li Yan , Olson Marram P. , Kurhanewicz John , Vigneron Daniel B. , Larson Peder E.Z. , Xu Duan
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Based on the expanding set of applications for hyperpolarized carbon‐13 (HP‐13C) MRI, this work aims to communicate standardized methodology implemented at the University of California, San Francisco, as a primer for conducting reproducible metabolic imaging studies of the prostate and brain. Current state‐of‐the‐art HP‐13C acquisition, data processing/reconstruction and kinetic modeling approaches utilized in patient studies are presented together with the rationale underpinning their usage. Organized around spectroscopic and imaging‐based methods, this guide provides an extensible framework for handling a variety of HP‐13C applications, which derives from two examples with dynamic acquisitions: 3D echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging of the human prostate and frequency‐specific 2D multislice echo‐planar imaging of the human brain. Details of sequence‐specific parameters and processing techniques contained in these examples should enable investigators to effectively tailor studies around individual‐use cases. Given the importance of clinical integration in improving the utility of HP exams, practical aspects of standardizing data formats for reconstruction, analysis and visualization are also addressed alongside open‐source software packages that enhance institutional interoperability and validation of methodology. To facilitate the adoption and further development of this methodology, example datasets and analysis pipelines have been made available in the supporting information.
Health‐related Internet use and treatment adherence: A transdiagnostic comparison of outpatients with major depressive disorder and schizophrenia
Authors: Zavorotnyy Maxim , Ehrlich Frank , Nenadic Igor
Published: March 2020

Treatment adherence is relevant for clinical and economic outcome in affective disorders as well as psychosis. Knowledge concerning the disease and its treatment might influence patients' willingness to follow the health‐care providers' recommendations and mutual decision‐making. In the current study, we investigated how Internet surfing for health‐related issues and attitude toward the relevance of the online information impact treatment adherence in major depressive disorder (MDD) and schizophrenia (SZ). A total of 83 outpatients (59 MDD, 24 SZ) participated in a survey. A multiple linear regression model with “exposure,” “attitude,” “diagnosis,” and their interaction as regressors was significant predictive of medication‐adherence rating scores, R2 = .179; 95% CI [0.00, 0.32]. In the MDD group only, more extended exposure to Internet surfing for health‐related issues and attribution of higher personal relevance were associated with poorer medication adherence at a statistical trend level, p = .060 and p = .077, respectively. In both groups, being female as well as higher age and intelligence were associated with favorable adherence, p = .003, p = .044, and p = .039, respectively. Considering the limitations (e.g., small sample size), our findings add to previously published data contributing to a better understanding of how Internet use may impact treatment adherence in MDD and schizophrenia.
Airport‐based photovoltaic applications
Authors: Sreenath Sukumaran , Sudhakar Kumarasamy , Yusop Ahmad Fitri
Published: March 2020

Nowadays, airports' interest in solar photovoltaics (PVs) is increasing. It is a way to lower the burden of energy costs and to show environmental stewardship. This paper aims to study the application of PVs in the airport environment. Solar projects in airport areas across the world were studied to find the techno‐economic and environmental aspects of airport‐based solar PV application. The favorable factors for solar PV are observed to be effective land utilization, low height profile, versatility, flexibility, and mature silicon PV technology. The major considerations for airport‐based solar PV applications were glare occurrence, radar interference, and penetration into airspace. Airport's weather and soil conditions, selection of PV technology, glare impact, site selection, and grid interconnection issues were the technical challenges. It was observed that economic factors such as reduced energy cost, life cycle cost, and sustainability grants and incentives make solar projects in airports attractive. Carbon mitigation and achievement of sustainability goals through solar PV installation emphasized the environmental stewardship of airports. From case studies, it was understood that prior planning, glare assessment, and careful implementation are essential for the success of airport‐based solar PV farms. Airport‐based solar PV has immense scope in the near future.
Therapy at 30 days of life predicts lung function at 6 to 12 months in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Chotzoglou Etze , Hedrick Holly L. , Herkert Lisa M. , Goldshore Matthew A. , Rintoul Natalie E. , Panitch Howard B.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is associated with variable degrees of lung hypoplasia. Pulmonary support at 30 days postnatal age was found to be the strongest predictor of inpatient mortality and morbidity among CDH infants and was also associated with higher pulmonary morbidity at 1 and 5 years. It is not known, however, if there is a relationship between the need for medical therapy at 30 days of life and subsequent abnormalities in lung function as reflected in infant pulmonary function test (iPFT) measurements.

Objective

We hypothesized that CDH infants who require more intensive therapy at 30 days would have more abnormal iPFT values at the time of their first infant pulmonary function study, reflecting the more severe spectrum of lung hypoplasia.

Methods

A single‐institution chart review of all CDH survivors who were enrolled in a Pulmonary Hypoplasia Program (PHP) through July 2019, and treated from 2002 to 2019 was performed. All infants were divided into groups based on their need for noninvasive (supplemental oxygen, high flow therapy, noninvasive mechanical ventilation) or invasive (mechanical ventilation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) respiratory assistance, bronchodilators, diuretic use, and pulmonary hypertension (PH) therapy (inhaled and/or systemic drugs) at 30 days. Descriptive and statistical analyses were performed between groups comparing subsequent lung function measurements.

Results

A total of 382 infants (median gestational age [GA] 38.4 [interquartile range (IQR) = 37.1‐39] weeks, 41.8% female, 70.9% Caucasian) with CDH were enrolled in the PHP through July 2019, and 118 infants underwent iPFT. The median age of the first iPFT was 6.6 (IQR = 5.3‐11.7) months. Those requiring any pulmonary support at 30 days had a higher functional residual capacity (FRC) (z) (P = .03), residual volume (RV) (z) (P = .008), ratio of RV to total lung capacity (RV/TLC) (z) (P = .0001), and ratio of FRC to TLC (FRC/TLC) (z) (P = .001); a lower forced expiratory volume at 0.5 seconds (FEV0.5) (z) (P = .03) and a lower respiratory system compliance (Crs) (P = .01) than those who did not require any support. Similarly, those requiring diuretics and/or PH therapy at 30 days had higher fractional lung volumes, lower forced expiratory flows and Crs than infants who did not require such support (P < .05).

Conclusions

Infants requiring any pulmonary support, diuretics and/or PH therapy at 30 postnatal days have lower forced expiratory flows and higher fractional lung volumes, suggesting a greater degree of lung hypoplasia. Our study suggests that the continued need for PH, diuretic or pulmonary support therapy at 30 days can be used as additional risk‐stratification measurements for evaluation of infants with CDH.
Great green tea ingredient? A narrative literature review on epigallocatechin gallate and its biophysical properties for topical use in dermatology
Authors: Frasheri Lorenz , Schielein Maximilian C. , Tizek Linda , Mikschl Petra , Biedermann Tilo , Zink Alexander
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this review is to examine epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) regarding its stability in different conditions (pH‐value, concentration, temperature), its interactions with common cosmetic ingredients, and its application in the dermatological field. The literature research considered published journal articles (clinical trials and scientific reviews). Studies were identified by searching electronic databases (MEDLINE and PubMed) and reference lists of respective articles. Higher concentrations of EGCG were reported to correlate with better stability and the same can be said for low temperatures and pH values. The interaction between EGCG and hyaluronic acid strengthens its antioxidant activities. Titanium dioxide coated with EGCG proved a suitable ingredient in sunscreens. The polyphenol possesses antioxidant properties, which proved effective in the prevention of UV‐induced skin damage and to alleviate the symptoms of Imiquimod‐induced psoriasis. The three endpoints of this review not only showed interesting results but also highlighted some limitations of EGCG. Studies show that the molecule is unstable, which may hinder its dermatological and cosmetic applications. The reported interactions with cosmetic ingredients were limited. As the health aspects of EGCG are well‐reported, ECGC has become a focus of interest for health professionals trying to treat common dermatological diseases.
Curcumin inhibits calcification of human aortic valve interstitial cells by interfering NF‐κB, AKT, and ERK pathways
Authors: Zhou Tingwen , Wang Yongjun , Liu Ming , Huang Yuming , Shi Jiawei , Dong Nianguo , Xu Kang
Published: March 2020

The osteogenic differentiation of human aortic valve interstitial cells (hVICs) is the key cellular mechanism of calcified aortic valve disease (CAVD). This study aimed to explore how curcumin (CCM) inhibits the osteogenic differentiation of hVICs and elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved. In this study, CCM inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of hVICs under osteogenic medium (OM) conditions by reversing the OM‐induced increase in calcified nodule formation and osteogenesis‐specific markers (ALP and Runx2). RNA sequencing identified 475 common differentially expressed genes with Venn diagrams of the different groups. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment revealed that the CCM inhibition of hVIC osteogenic differentiation was enriched in the NF‐κB, PI3K‐AKT, TNF, Jak‐STAT, and MAPK signaling pathways. In addition, CCM suppressed the phosphorylation of ERK, IκBα, AKT, and interfered with the translocation of P65 into the cell nucleus in hVICs under OM culture conditions. In conclusion, CCM inhibited the osteogenic differentiation of hVICs via interfering with the activation of NF‐κB/AKT/ERK signaling pathways. Our findings provide novel insights into a critical role for CCM in CAVD progression and shed new light on CCM‐directed therapeutics for CAVD.
Cold‐pool‐driven convective initiation: using causal graph analysis to determine what convection‐permitting models are missing
Authors: Hirt Mirjam , Craig George C. , Schäfer Sophia A. K. , Savre Julien , Heinze Rieke
Published: March 2020

Cold‐pool‐driven convective initiation is investigated in high‐resolution, convection‐permitting simulations with a focus on the diurnal cycle and organization of convection and the sensitivity to grid size. Simulations of four different days over Germany were performed using the ICON‐LEM model with grid sizes from 156 to 625 m. In these simulations, we identify cold pools, cold‐pool boundaries and initiated convection. Convection is triggered much more efficiently in the vicinity of cold pools than in other regions and can provide as much as 50% of total convective initiation, in particular in the late afternoon. By comparing different model resolutions, we find that cold pools are more frequent, smaller and less intense in lower‐resolution simulations. Furthermore, their gust fronts are weaker and less likely to trigger new convection. To identify how model resolution affects this triggering probability, we use a linear causal graph analysis. In doing so, we postulate a graph structure with potential causal pathways and then apply multi‐linear regression accordingly. We find a dominant, systematic effect: reducing grid sizes directly reduces upward mass flux at the gust front, which causes weaker triggering probabilities. These findings are expected to be even more relevant for km‐scale, numerical weather prediction models. We thus expect that a better representation of cold‐pool‐driven convective initiation will improve forecasts of convective precipitation.
Sustainability assessment of energy sector development in China and European Union
Authors: Su Weihua , Zhang Dongcai , Zhang Chonghui , Streimikiene Dalia
Published: March 2020

Energy efficiency, development of renewable energy resources, decarbonization, and energy security are the key energy policy priorities of the European Union and China. Based on data for the period 2005–2016, this study compares the status of energy sector development sustainability among 21 European Union Member States and China by applying the several Multi‐Criteria Decision Making methods. Seven Member States including United Kingdom were excluded from the analysis due to Brexit or entering EU late like Croatia or due to small size as Malta and Cyprus and so forth. The results of Multi‐Criteria Decision analysis indicated that Romania, Czech Republic, and Latvia performed the best during this period in terms of approaching toward sustainable energy development targets. These countries have implemented effective policies and measures to increase energy efficiency and use of renewables leading to reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and increase in security of energy supply during the investigated period. New Member States have better assessment of effectiveness of energy policies pursuing 20–20–20 targets than old Member States. China lag behind European Union countries in terms of sustainability of energy sector however, during investigated period the country has achieved very good progress and can learn a lot from European experience as suggested by policy implications developed in this paper.
Capillary Assembly of Liquid Particles
Authors: Shillingford Cicely , Kim Brandon M. , Weck Marcus
Published: March 2020

Capillary assembly is a versatile method for depositing colloidal particles within templates, resulting in nano/microarrays and colloidal superstructures for optical, plasmonic, and sensory applications. Liquid particles (LPs), comprised of oligomerized 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate, are herein shown to deposit into patterned cavities via capillary assembly. In contrast to solid colloids, LPs coalesce upon solvent evaporation and assume the geometry of the template. Incorporating small molecules such as dyes followed by LP solidification generates fluorescent polymer microarrays of any geometry. The LP size is inversely proportional to the quantity of deposited material and the convexity of the final polymer array. Cavity filling can be tuned by increasing the assembly temperature. Extraction of the polymerized regions produces solidified particles with faceted shapes including square prisms, trapezoids, and ellipsoids with sizes up to 14 µm that retain the shape of the cavity in which they are initially held. LP deposition thus presents a highly controllable fabrication scheme for geometrically diverse polymer microarrays and anisotropic colloids of any conceivable polygonal shape due to space filling of the template. The extension of capillary assembly to LPs that can be doped with small molecule dyes and analytes invaluably expands the synthetic toolbox for top‐down, scalable, hierarchically engineered materials.
Morphology and osteohistology of a large‐bodied caenagnathid (Theropoda, Oviraptorosauria) from the Hell Creek Formation (Montana): implications for size‐based classifications and growth reconstruction in theropods
Authors: Cullen Thomas M. , Simon D. Jade , Benner Elizabeth K. C. , Evans David C.
Published: March 2020

Oviraptorosaurs, like many coelurosaurians, are frequently diagnosed using incomplete or fragmentary skeletal remains, with factors such as body size often used to assign material to a particular taxon or as a basis for describing new species. Here we describe a partial skeleton,ROM VP65884, from the Hell Creek Formation (Montana,USA), and through morphological and phylogenetic comparisons identify it as belonging to Caenagnathidae, and probably referable toAnzu wyliei. We perform multi‐element osteohistological sampling of the tibia, fibula, manual phalanx, rib and gastralium ofROM VP65884 to determine the ontogenetic status of the individual, and to perform a detailed assessment of the intra‐skeletal variation present in a series of histological proxies for growth and development. Skeletochronological analysis suggestsROM VP65884 was still actively growing at time of death. Lacunar area was variable, but consistent with values reported for other dinosaurs and vertebrates. Osteocyte lacunar density was found to be relatively similar to the few previous measurements known from coelurosaurian dinosaurs, and preserved no ontogenetic pattern. Osteocyte lacunar density (OLD) was much higher in sampled rib and gastralia elements when compared to limbs, and the high variability inOLDoverall lends further support against the hypothesis of this feature acting as a proxy for mass‐specific growth rate. Our results stress the importance of using osteohistological analyses to constrain variation and permit ontogenetic assessment, and suggest caution be taken when using size as a determinant for referral of disassociated elements to specific or new coelurosaur taxa.
Effects of levetiracetam on axon excitability and synaptic transmission at the crayfish neuromuscular junction
Authors: Alshuaib Shaikhah , Mosaddeghi Julie , Lin Jen‐We
Published: March 2020

Levetiracetam (LEV) is a widely prescribed antiepileptic drug, but its actions on neuronal function are not fully characterized. Since this drug is believed to enter neurons by binding to a vesicular protein during endocytosis, we used motor axons of the crayfish opener neuromuscular junction to examine potential impacts of LEV on axon excitability. Two electrode current clamp from the inhibitory axon of the opener showed that LEV reduced action potential (AP) amplitude (APamp) and suppressed synaptic transmission, although the latter occurred with a longer delay than the reduction in APamp. Comparison of antidromic and orthodromic conducting APs in LEV suggested that this drug preferentially reduced excitability of the proximal axon, despite the expectation that it entered the axon at the terminals and should affect the distal branches first. Results presented here suggest that LEV modulates axonal excitability, which may in turn contribute to its antiepileptic effects.
Choosing the optimal population for a genome‐wide association study: A simulation of whole‐genome sequences from rice
Authors: Hamazaki Kosuke , Kajiya‐Kanegae Hiromi , Yamasaki Masanori , Ebana Kaworu , Yabe Shiori , Nakagawa Hiroshi , Iwata Hiroyoshi
Published: March 2020

A genome‐wide association study (GWAS) needs to have a suitable population. The factors that affect a GWAS (e.g. population structure, sample size, and sequence analysis and field testing costs) need to be considered. Mixed populations containing subpopulations of different genetic backgrounds may be suitable populations. We conducted simulation experiments to see if a population with high genetic diversity, such as a diversity panel, should be added to a target population, especially when the target population harbors small genetic diversity. The target population was 112 accessions ofOryza sativaL. subsp.japonica, mainly developed in Japan. We combined the target population with three populations that had higher genetic diversity. These were 100indicaaccessions, 100japonicaaccessions, and 100 accessions with various genetic backgrounds. The results showed that the GWAS's power with a mixed population was generally higher than with a separate population. Also, the optimal GWAS populations varied depending on the fixation index (FST) of the quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) and the polymorphism of QTNs in each population. When a QTN was polymorphic in a target population, a target population combined with a higher diversity population improved the QTN's detection power. By investigatingFSTand the expected heterozygosity (He) as factors influencing the detection power, we showed that single nucleotide polymorphisms with highFSTor lowHeare less likely to be detected by GWAS with mixed populations. Sequenced or genotyped germplasm collections can improve the GWAS's detection power by using a subset of the collections with a target population.
Next-to-leading power threshold effects for inclusive and exclusive processes with final state jets
Authors: van Beekveld Melissa , Beenakker Wim , Laenen Eric , White Chris D.
Published: March 2020

Abstract

It is well known that cross-sections in perturbative QCD receive large corrections from soft and collinear radiation, which can be resummed to all orders in the coupling. Whether or not the universal properties of this radiation can be extended to next-to-leading power (NLP) in the threshold expansion has been the subject of much recent study. In particular, universal forms for next-to-leading order (NLO) cross-sections have been obtained for general colour-singlet production processes by considering only the emission of gluons. In this paper, we extend such formulae to processes containing final state jets, and show that the dominant NLP terms at NLO can be obtained using a similar prescription to the colour-singlet case. We furthermore consider the emission of soft quarks, which also leads to a class of universal NLP contributions at NLO. We illustrate our results using three different processes at NLO: deep-inelastic scattering, hadroproduction via electron-positron annihilation and prompt photon production.
Lepton-trijet and displaced vertex searches for heavy neutrinos at future electron-proton colliders
Authors: Antusch Stefan , Fischer Oliver , Hammad A.
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Electron proton (ep) colliders could provide particle collisions at TeV energies with large data rates while maintaining the clean and pile up-free environment of lepton colliders, which makes them very attractive for heavy neutrino searches. Heavy (mainly sterile) neutrinos with masses around the electroweak scale are proposed in low scale seesaw models for neutrino mass generation. In this paper, we analyse two of the most promising signatures of heavy neutrinos at ep colliders, the lepton-flavour violating (LFV) lepton-trijet signature and the displaced vertex signature. In the considered benchmark model, we find that for heavy neutrino masses around a few hundred GeV, the LFV lepton-trijet signature at ep colliders yields the best sensitivity of all currently discussed heavy neutrino signatures (analysed at the reconstructed level) up to now.
Fine mapping qGL2H, a major locus controlling grain length in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Watt Calum , Zhou Gaofeng , McFawn Lee-Anne , Li Chengdao
Published: March 2020

Key message

A major grain length QTL on chromosome 2H was fine mapped to a 140.9 Kb region containing three genes.

Increasing yield is an important target for barley breeding programs. One approach to increase yield is by enhancing individual grain weights through the regulation of grain size. Fine mapping major grain size-related quantitative trait loci is necessary for future marker-assisted selection strategies, yet studies of this nature are limited in barley. In the present study, we utilised a doubled haploid population derived from two Australian malt barley varieties, Vlamingh and Buloke, coupled with extensive genotypic and phenotypic data from three independent environments. A major grain length locus identified on chromosome 2H designated qGL2H was fine mapped to a 140.9 Kb interval. qGL2H was able to account for 25.4% of the phenotypic variation for grain length and 10.2% for grain yield. Underlying qGL2H were three high-confidence predicted genes. One of these genes encodes a MYB transcription factor and represents a promising candidate for further genetic research.
Radiation dose and fluoroscopy time of modern endovascular treatment techniques in patients with saccular unruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Forbrig Robert , Ozpeynirci Yigit , Grasser Matthias , Dorn Franziska , Liebig Thomas , Trumm Christoph G.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Modern endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) demands for observance of diagnostic reference levels (DRLs). The national DRL (250 Gy cm2) is only defined for coiling. We provide dosimetric data for the following procedures: coiling, flow diverter (FD), Woven EndoBridge (WEB), combined techniques.

Methods

A retrospective single-centre study of saccular UIAs treated between 2015 and 2019. Regarding dosimetric analysis, the parameters dose area product (DAP) and fluoroscopy time were investigated for the following variables: endovascular technique, aneurysm location, DSA protocol, aneurysm size, and patient age.

Results

Eighty-seven patients (59 females, mean age 54 years) were included. Total mean and median DAP (Gy cm2) were 119 ± 73 (89–149) and 94 (73; 130) for coiling, 128 ± 53 (106–151) and 134 (80; 176) for FD, 128 ± 56 (102–153) and 118 (90; 176) for WEB, and 165 ± 102 (110–219) and 131 (98; 209) for combined techniques (p > .05). Regarding the aneurysm location, neither DAP nor fluoroscopy time was significantly different (p > .05). The lowest and highest fluoroscopy times were recorded for WEB and combined techniques, respectively (median 26 and 94 min; p < .001). A low-dose protocol yielded a 43% reduction of DAP (p < .001). Significantly positive correlations were found between DAP and both aneurysm size (r = .320, p = .003) and patient age (r = .214, p = .046).

Conclusions

This UIA study establishes novel local DRLs for modern endovascular techniques such as FD and WEB. A low-dose protocol yielded a significant reduction of radiation dose.

Key Points

• This paper establishes local diagnostic reference levels for modern endovascular treatment techniques of unruptured intracranial aneurysms, including flow diverter stenting and Woven EndoBridge device.

• Dose area product was not significantly different between endovascular techniques and aneurysm locations, but associated with aneurysm size and patient age.

• A low-dose protocol yielded a significant reduction of dose area product and is particularly useful when applying materials with a high radiopacity (e.g. platinum coils).
Correction to: Open research data, an archival challenge?
Authors: Borgerud Charlotte , Borglund Erik
Published: March 2020

In the original publication of the article, the third sentence in the third paragraph under the section “Methods” was incorrect. The correct sentence should read as given below.