bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico-chemical Alterations and Hydrocarbon Characteristics of Kom-Kom Oil Spill Soils
Authors: Onyejekwe I. M. , Osuji L. C. , Nwaichi E. O.
Published: November 2019

Aims: The aim of this study is to find the alterations that occurred in the physico-chemical properties and the hydrocarbon content on the crude oil impacted soil in Kom-Kom, Oyigbo, Rivers State Niger Delta, Nigeria.

Study Design: The objectives included to evaluate the physico-chemical parameters of the spilled soil, determine the hydrocarbon content and that of some selected heavy metals. This will help create a baseline data on the environmental status of the area.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out after an oil spill occurred in Feburary, 2018 at Kom-Kom, Oyigbo, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The soil samples were obtained randomly at 30cm depth using soil auger from three plots: PA and PB being the plots around the oil spill impacted area and PC being the control area which is about 200m away. Laboratory analyses were carried out on the Physicochemical Parameters (pH, Electric Conductivity, Potassium (K), Phosphate (P), Nitrate (N)); Organics (Total Hydrocarbon Content (THC), Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) and Total Organic Carbon (TOC)) and Heavy Metals (Iron (PB), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Chromium (Cr), Vanadium (V)). The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and One-Way ANOVA.

Results: pH, K and P values were all significantly different from their respective control values (p ≤0.05). All organic parameters were also significantly different from the control values (p ≤0.05). For heavy metals, only Cr and V values were significantly different in all study sites (p ≤0.05). This study shows that crude oil spill alters the physicochemical attributes of the soil and could significantly affect soil fertility as the people of Kom-Kom are mostly farmers and traders.

Conclusion: With these levels of alteration, this study will serve as a resourceful data source for soil studies in Kom Kom. In order to achieve the third sustainable development goal (SDG) which is to have good health and well-being of people, we recommend immediate and proper clean up using bioremediation approaches as a cheap, eco-friendly and an environmentally sustainable process.
Analysis of Particle Pollution in Residential Urban Area of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Onuorah Christopher U. , Leton T. G. , Momoh O. L. Y.
Published: November 2019

Particle pollution poses serious public health concern because of its potential to find its route into human lungs thereby causing respiratory diseases and cancer. This paper analyses various aspect of particulate matter including seasonal variation, Particulate matter based AQI, particulate matter exceedances and empirical modelling for seasonal prediction of PM2.5 and PM10 concentration. The study was carried out in Woji, a residential urban area of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, between May and December 2018. The Particulate matter concentrations were monitored with particulate monitor while meteorological variables were also monitored with Misol weather station. The 24-hour average PM10 concentration for dry and wet seasons were 139.6 μg/m³ and 97 μg/m³ respectively. These concentrations are below USEPA 24-hr standard (PM10 = 150 μg/m³) while the 24-hour average PM2.5 concentrations of 46.1μg/m³ for dry season exceeded daily limit (PM2.5 = 35 μg/m³) but was below the limit in wet season with concentration of 29.1 μg/m³. The study area experienced daily PM2.5 and PM10 exceedances of 33.3% and 19.7% respectively for the study period. Also, the PM based AQI were unhealthy to all residents for 13%, unhealthy to the sensitive group for 20%, moderate for 62% and good for 5% of the monitoring period. PM2.5 and PM10 pollution prediction model were developed for dry and wet season with a high correlation coefficient of 0.98 and 0.97 respectively at (P < 0.001).The seasonal variation of PM concentration revealed that PM10 and PM2.5 concentration varied from season to season, with significantly higher concentration in dry season than in wet season. The air quality of Woji Port Harcourt was better in wet season than in dry season due to the scavenging mechanism of rainfall. Also, PM exceedances were higher in dry season than wet season due to high atmospheric stability associated with low wind speed in dry season.
A Comparative Analysis on Maritime Disaster Management between Korea and Sweden
Authors: Namkung Lock
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this study is to illustrate the importance of crisis management planning and effective governance by comparing and analysing cases related to crisis management in disasters. Firstly, this study analyses the sinking of the MV Sewol of Korea, one of the worst ship accidents in the world, and criticise the crisis management plan. It also applies relevant methodologies to identify how to manage incidents and how to perform them for better management. Secondly, this analyses the sinking accident and crisis management plan of MS Estonia in Sweden which is one of the worst ship accident in the world. As a result, MS Estonia disaster triggered improvements in safety policies in Sweden.

This study argues that Korean government can learn important lessons from Sweden to avoid the "vicious cycle" that exists in South Korea's policy decisions related to safety issues. Compared with the case in Sweden, this study suggests that further measures are needed to end the vicious circle of low safety standards and low confidence in Korea. Compared to the case in Sweden, a few policy recommendations are suggested in this study.
Retracted: Circ‐TCF4.85 silencing inhibits cancer progression through microRNA‐486‐5p‐targeted inhibition of ABCF2 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Gao Jun , Dai Chao , Yu Xin , Yin Xiang‐Bao , Zhou Fan
Published: November 2019

The current study aimed to explore the role of the circular RNA circ‐TCF4.85 and its downstream target microRNA‐486‐5p (miR‐486‐5p) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Circ‐TCF4.85 was detected to be highly expressed in HCC tissues. Next, we found that silencing of circ‐TCF4.85 repressed HCC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, while enhancing apoptosis. In addition, biotin‐coupled probe pull‐down and miRNA capture assays, as well as fluorescence in situ hybridization, confirmed that circ‐TCF4.85 could bind to miR‐486‐5p. In rescue experiments, miR‐486‐5p had the potential to eliminate the tumor‐suppressive effects of circ‐TCF4.85 knockdown in HCC. Moreover, miR‐486‐5p was shown to target ABCF2 gene, which was positively regulated by circ‐TCF4.85. Finally, nude mice subcutaneously injected with si‐circ‐TCF4.85‐transfected HCC cells presented with inhibited xenograft tumor formation in vivo. Taken together, our results reveal that silencing of circ‐TCF4.85 suppresses HCC progression via miR‐486‐5p‐targeted inhibition of ABCF2.
Spondyloarthritis and Outcomes in Pregnancy and Labor: A Nationwide Register‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Mørk Sofie , Voss Anne , Möller Sören , Bliddal Mette
Published: November 2019

Objective

To describe the prevalence of spondyloarthritis (SpA) and subtypes diagnosed prior to delivery in a nationwide population of pregnant women, and to estimate how SpA was associated with adverse pregnancy‐related outcomes.

Methods

Using the Danish Medical Birth Register, we identified 1,199,610 singleton pregnancies (1997–2016). Information on SpA and related subtypes (ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel diseases, and undifferentiated SpA) was derived from the Danish National Patient Registry. Odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression models. The analyses were performed with overall SpA as exposure and stratified by subtype.

Results

The overall prevalence of SpA diagnosed prior to delivery was 0.31%, increasing from 0.1% in 1997 to 0.6% in 2016. Comparing women without SpA to women with SpA, the adjusted odds ratios were increased for moderately preterm birth (ORadj1.56 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.33–1.83]), very preterm birth (ORadj1.47 [95% CI 1.04–2.08]), elective cesarean section (ORadj1.44 [95% CI 1.26–1.64]), emergency cesarean section (ORadj1.17 [95% CI 1.04–1.33]), and use of epidural (ORadj1.11 [95% CI 1.02–1.20]). The odds ratios for small for gestational age birth and preeclampsia were not increased for women with SpA compared to controls. Results were comparable for the subtypes of SpA.

Conclusion

Pregnancies in women with SpA were more often complicated by adverse pregnancy outcomes than pregnancies in women without SpA. Clinicians should be aware of this when advising women with SpA in their childbearing years. Future research should focus on investigating causal relations and possible interventions aimed at preventing these outcomes.
Treat‐to‐Target Approach in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Quality Improvement Trial
Authors: Desai Sonali P. , Leatherwood Cianna , Forman Malka , Ko Eunji , Stevens Emma , Iversen Maura , Xu Chang , Lu Bing , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: November 2019

Objective

Using a quality improvement approach, our objective was to integrate a treat‐to‐target approach for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through routine electronic collection of patient‐reported disease activity scores and a multidisciplinary learning collaborative for rheumatologists.

Methods

RA patients completed a patient‐reported outcome measure, the Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data 3 (RAPID3), at check‐in. Nine rheumatologists and their patients were allocated to a learning collaborative intervention group focused on a treat‐to‐target approach and 13 were allocated to a control group. The primary outcome was documentation of a treat‐to‐target implementation score: disease activity score, disease activity score used in the medication change decision, the presence of a treatment target, and an indication of shared decision‐making. A primary analysis of patient visits with medication changes was conducted using an interrupted time‐series analysis.

Results

We studied 554 individual rheumatology patients with 709 patient visits. Treat‐to‐target implementation scores among intervention rheumatologists (mean ± SD 44.6% ± 1.63%) were 12.4% higher than in the control group (mean ± SD 32.2% ± 1.50%; P < 0.0001). We observed differences in treat‐to‐target implementation score components, comparing intervention group to control group rheumatologists: disease activity score present, 77.2% versus 68.0% (P = 0.02); disease activity score used in the medication change decision, 45.2% versus 30.0% (P < 0.01); treatment target, 9.0% versus 0.4% (P < 0.01); and shared decision‐making, 46.9% versus 30.0% (P < 0.01). Secondary analysis of patient visits with high RAPID3 scores found that medication changes were 54% less likely in the intervention versus control group (odds ratio 0.46 [95% confidence interval 0.27–0.79], P = 0.005).

Conclusion

This nonrandomized, interrupted time‐series trial demonstrated a modest but significant impact of a learning collaborative intervention on rheumatologist documentation of a treat‐to‐target approach in RA.
DNA‐Mediated Assembly of Multispecific Antibodies for T Cell Engaging and Tumor Killing
Authors: Pan Liqiang , Cao Chan , Run Changqing , Zhou Liujuan , Chou James J.
Published: November 2019

Targeting T‐cells against cancer cells is a direct means of treating cancer, and has already shown great responses in clinical treatment of B‐cell malignancies. A simple way to redirect T‐cells to cancer cells is by using multispecific antibody (MsAb) that contains different arms for specifically “grabbing” the T‐cells and cancer cells; as such, the T‐cells are activated upon target engagement and the killing begins. Here, a nucleic acid mediated protein–protein assembly (NAPPA) approach is implemented to construct a MsAb for T‐cell engaging and tumor killing. Anti ‐CD19 and ‐CD3 single‐chain variable fragments (scFvs) are conjugated to different l‐DNAs with sequences that form the Holliday junction, thus allowing spontaneous assembly of homogeneous protein–DNA oligomers containing two anti‐CD19 and one anti‐CD3 scFvs. The new MsAb shows strong efficacy in inducing Raji tumor cell cytotoxicity in the presence of T‐cells with EC50 ≈ 0.2 × 10−9 m; it also suppresses tumor growth in a Raji xenograft mouse model. The data indicates that MsAbs assembled from protein–DNA conjugates are effective macromolecules for directing T‐cells for tumor killing. The modular nature of the NAPPA platform allows rapid generation of complex MsAbs from simple antibody fragments, while offering a general solution for preparing antibodies with high‐order specificity.
Can the global end‐diastolic volume index guide fluid management in septic patients? A multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Morisawa Kenichiro , Fujitani Shigeki , Homma Yosuke , Shigemitsu Kazuaki , Saito Nobuyuki , Hayakawa Katsura , Yasuda Hideto , Hifumi Toru , Rinka Hiroshi , Mayumi Toshihiko , Fujiwara Shinsuke , Murao Yoshinori , Taira Yasuhiko
Published: November 2019

Aim

An index that accurately measures intravascular volume is paramount for the optimal resuscitation of sepsis. Selecting an adequate indicator to substitute for central venous pressure (CVP) has remained an issue. The objective of our study was to compare the usefulness of standard early goal‐directed therapy (EGDT) with CVP (EGDT‐CVP) and modified EGDT with global end‐diastolic volume index (GEDI; EGDT‐GEDI) for sepsis.

Methods

This was a multicenter prospective randomized controlled study. All patients with sepsis who were expected to require mechanical ventilator support for a minimum of 48 h were included. The patients were classified into an EGDT‐CVP group and an EGDT‐GEDI group. All participants underwent the extubation protocol. The primary outcome was the ventilator‐free days over a 28‐day period.

Results

The ventilator‐free days was not significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.59). However, the EGDT‐GEDI group showed a trend of shorter ventilator support duration (5.1 days [2.0–8.7 days] versus 3.9 days [2.4–5.7 days], P = 0.27) and length of stay in the intensive care unit (7.2 days [3.8–10.7 days] versus 5.1 days [3.7–8.8 days], P = 0.05) and a smaller 3‐day infusion balance than the EGDT‐CVP group (4,405 mL [1,092–8,163 mL] versus 3,046 mL [830–6,806 mL], P = 0.34), but the differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Although there was no significant efficacy, EGDT guided by GEDI showed a trend of shorter length of stay in the intensive care unit and lower 3‐day infusion balance than the EGDT‐CVP group in sepsis. The GEDI monitoring did not appear to improve the ventilator‐free days over a 28‐day period.
The Redox Coupling Effect in a Photocatalytic RuII‐PdII Cage with TTF Guest as Electron Relay Mediator for Visible‐Light Hydrogen‐Evolving Promotion
Authors: Wu Kai , Li Kang , Chen Sha , Hou Ya‐Jun , Lu Yu‐Lin , Wang Jing‐Si , Wei Mei‐Juan , Pan Mei , Su Cheng‐Yong
Published: November 2019

A nanocage coupling effect from a redox RuII‐PdII metal–organic cage (MOC‐16) is demonstrated for efficient photochemical H2 production by virtue of redox–guest modulation of the photo‐induced electron transfer (PET) process. Through coupling with photoredox cycle of MOC‐16, tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) guests act as electron relay mediator to improve the overall electron transfer efficiency in the host–guest system in a long‐time scale, leading to significant promotion of visible‐light driven H2 evolution. By contrast, the presence of larger TTF‐derivatives in bulk solution without host–guest interactions results in interference with PET process of MOC‐16, leading to inefficient H2 evolution. Such interaction provides an example to understand the interplay between the redox‐active nanocage and guest for optimization of redox events and photocatalytic activities in a confined chemical nanoenvironment.
Anchored Ni‐dimethylglyoxime complex on Fe3O4@SiO2 core/shell nanoparticles for the clean catalytical synthesis of dicoumarols
Authors: Hassanloie Nishtman , Noroozi Pesyan Nader , Sheykhaghaei Golaleh
Published: November 2019

Ni‐Dimethylglyoxime complex immobilized on functionalized Fe3O4 was synthesized by a post‐grafting way and utilized as a novel, thermally stable, recoverable, and efficient for green synthesis of dicoumarols through reaction of 4‐hydroxycoumarin with various aldehydes in excellent yields and higher rate. Fe3O4@SiO2‐silylcyclopropyl‐dimethylglyoxime‐Ni superparamagnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometer, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller technique. This nanocatalyst could be conveniently recovered via the use of an external magnetic field and reused for subsequent reactions for at least 7 times without any remarkable change and decrease in catalytic activity.
Synthesis, characterization, biological screening and molecular docking of Zn(II) and Cu(II) complexes of 3,5‐dichlorosalicylaldehyde‐N4‐cyclohexylthiosemicarbazone
Authors: Mathews Nimya Ann , Begum P.M. Sabura , Kurup M.R. Prathapachandra
Published: November 2019

A 3,5‐dichlorosalicylaldehyde‐N4‐cyclohexylthiosemicarbazone (C14H16Cl2N3OS) and its complexes [Zn(dsct)(phen)]·DMF (1), [Zn(dsct)(bipy)]·DMF (2), [Cu(dsct)(bipy)]·DMF (3) (phen = 1,10‐phenathroline, bipy = 2,2’bipyridine) were synthesized and characterized by CHN analysis, FT‐IR, UV–vis and NMR spectra. The molecular structure of the thiosemicarbazone (H2dsct) and its complexes have been resolved using single crystal XRD studies. In the complexes, thiosemicarbazone exist in the thioiminolate form and acts as dideprotonated tridentate ligand coordinating through phenolic oxygen, thioiminolate sulfur and azomethine nitrogen. The antibacterial activity of the prepared compounds were screened against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Enterobacter aerogenes, Shigella dysentriae, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus. All the complexes showed activity against bacterial strains E.coli and Salmonella typhi. The thiosemicarbazone showed activity against three bacterial strains such as E. coli, Enterobacter aerogenes and Shigella dysentriae. Complex 2 showed very good antibacterial activity as compared to standard drug (Ampicillin) against the bacterial strain, Salmonella typhi. Finally, the thiosemicarbazone and its complexes have been used to accomplish molecular docking studies against an Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and breast cancer mutant 3hb5‐oxidoreductase to determine the most preferred mode of interaction. The results confirm that the complex [Cu (dsct)(bipy)]·DMF(3) showed the highest docking score as compared to other complexes under study. The [Cu(dsct)(bipy)]·DMF(3) complex was evaluated for their anticancer activities against breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7) and normal L929 (Mouse Fibroblast) cell line. It was found that the compound showed an LC50 of 6.25 μg/mL against breast cancer cell line (MCF‐7).
Effect of crosslinking agent on the properties of low‐temperature curing PES/PTFE anticorrosive coating
Authors: Zhang Bo , Wang Hongyue , Zhu Shiyang , Yao Hongyan , Di Yizeng , Cao Guangzhao , Song Ying , Tan Haiwei , Yu Huaxuan , Guan Shaowei
Published: November 2019

To reduce energy consumption and broaden the scope of application of polyethersulfone/polytetrafluoroethylene (PES/PTFE) coatings, three hybrids have been designed by incorporating PES/PTFE coatings with different contents (0, 10, and 20 wt %) of crosslinking agent consisting of epoxy resin and appropriate curing agent (ER‐CA) in the application as low‐temperature curing PES/PTFE coatings and named as EP‐0, EP‐1, and EP‐2, respectively. The addition of ER‐CA gives rise to satisfactory distribution of PTFE, making PTFE play its roles better and improves barrier properties of the coatings by secondary leveling and its own crosslinking structure, which greatly enhances anticorrosion properties. Compared with EP‐0 and EP‐2, EP‐1 exhibits lower water permeability. Even after long‐term exposure to corrosive environments, EP‐1 still possesses high anticorrosion properties. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48740.
A Novel Approach to Gross Dissection of the Human Pelvis and Perineum
Authors: Hunter Leah D. , Mosley Claudia F. , Quinn Melissa M. , Cray James J. , Baker Anthony S. , Burgoon Jennifer M. , Kalmar Eileen , McHugh Kirk M.
Published: November 2019

Progressive curricular changes in medical education over the past two decades have resulted in the diaspora of gross anatomy content into integrated curricula while significantly reducing total contact hours. Despite the development of a wide range of alternative teaching modalities, gross dissection remains a critical component of medical education. The challenge posed to modern anatomists is how to maximize and integrate the time spent dissecting under the current curricular changes. In this study, an alternative approach to the dissection of the pelvis and perineum is presented in an effort to improve content delivery and student satisfaction. The approach involves removal of the perineum en bloc from the cadaver followed by excision of the pubic symphysis, removal and examination of the bladder and associated structures, examination and bisection of the midline pelvic organs in situ, and midsagittal hemisection of the pelvis for identification of the neurovasculature. Results indicate that this novel dissecting approach increases the number of structures identified by 46% ± 14% over current dissecting methods. Survey results indicate that students were better able to integrate lecture and laboratory concepts, understand the concepts, and successfully identify more structures using the new approach (P < 0.05). The concept of anatomic efficiency is introduced and proposed as a standard quantitative measure of gross dissection proficiency across programs and institutions. These findings provide evidence that innovative solutions to anatomy education can be found that help to maintain critical content and student satisfaction in a modern medical curriculum.
Phenoxyethanol‐Based Embalming for Anatomy Teaching: An 18 Years' Experience with Crosado Embalming at the University of Otago in New Zealand
Authors: Crosado Brynley , Löffler Sabine , Ondruschka Benjamin , Zhang Ming , Zwirner Johann , Hammer Niels
Published: November 2019

Embalming fixatives such as formaldehyde and phenol have been associated with occupational health hazards. While anatomists aim at replacing these chemicals, this seems presently unfeasible in particular for formaldehyde. Furthermore, fixation protocols usually require well‐equipped facilities with highly experienced staff to achieve good fixation results in spite of only a minimal use of formaldehyde. Combining these aspects, a technique robust enough to be carried out by morticians is presented, resulting in durable tissues with minimal formaldehyde use. An embalming protocol involving phenoxyethanol was established, using concentrations of 7 and 1.5 Vol% of phenoxyethanol in the fixative and the conservation fluid, respectively. Visual, haptic, histological, and biomechanical properties and their perceived potential to positively influence student learning outcomes were compared to standard embalming techniques. The phenoxyethanol technique provides esthetic, durable, and odorless tissues. Bleaching is less pronounced compared to ethanol‐ or formaldehyde‐based protocols. The tissues remain pliable following the phenoxyethanol‐based embalming and can be used for biomechanical experiments to some extent. Phenoxyethanol‐fixed tissues are well suited for undergraduate teaching with perceived positive learning outcomes and partly for postgraduate training. Phenoxyethanol tissues provide the option to obtain well‐preserved histology samples, similar to those derived from formaldehyde. The provided protocol helps replace the use of phenol and formaldehyde for conservation purposes and minimizes the use of formaldehyde for the initial injection fixation. Phenoxyethanol‐based embalming forms an effective alternative to standard embalming techniques for human cadavers. It is simple to use, allowing fixation procedures to be carried out in less sophisticated facilities with non‐anatomy staff.
Biobutanol production from sugarcane bagasse by Clostridium beijerinckii strains
Authors: Narayanasamy Saraswathi , Chan Kit Lun , Cai Hui , Abdul Razak Ahmad Hilman Bin , Tay Boon Keat , Miao Huang
Published: November 2019

Acetone–butanol–ethanol (ABE) fermentation was performed with sugarcane bagasse (SCB) hydrolysate using Clostridium beijerinckii strains. A cost‐effective SCB medium was developed with no enzymatic hydrolysis and no supplementation of extra carbon source or expensive nitrogen source. One of the C. beijerinckii strains studied was able to produce butanol with butanol productivity of 1.23 g/L/day with butanol yield of 0.18 g/g of sugars from the developed medium. High utilization rate of both glucose and xylose was observed in SCB medium during ABE fermentation. This study shows that SCB is a promising substrate for cellulosic biobutanol production.
Dual Play of Chitin‐Derived N‐Doped Carbon Nanosheets Enabling High‐Performance Na‐SeS2 Half/Full Cells
Authors: Ma Jingqi , Gao Lingfeng , Li Shuping , Zeng Ziqi , Zhang Lina , Xie Jia
Published: November 2019

Room‐temperature Na−S batteries hold great promise for developing next‐generation battery system with the advantages of abundant resource, high energy density, and long lifetime. However, limited by sluggish kinetics, Na−S batteries frequently suffer from low utilization of active materials, rapid capacity decay during cycling and poor rate capability. Herein, we propose an advanced cathode with SeS2 tightly impregnated in chitin‐derived rich nitrogen carbon nanosheets (termed as CCN/SeS2). The CCN/SeS2 exhibits superb rate capability (422 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1) and long cycle stability (566 mAh g−1 after 470 cycles with a capacity decay rate of 0.056 % per cycle). High content and high loading cathodes are also fabricated to meet the requirement of practical application. The results of electrochemical tests and characterization demonstrate that CCN/SeS2 has preponderance in lowering overpotential and reaction resistances, prompting the diffusion of sodium ions and achieving the uniform deposition of discharge products. For the first time, a full cell based on all‐chitin materials (CCN/SeS2 cathode and CCN anode) is assembled, which exhibits favorable cycling performance over 100 cycles. The as‐obtained cell using a green and low‐cost carbon and SeS2 inheriting the advantages of Se and S may pave a new way to energy storage.
Thymoquinone attenuates oxidative stress of kidney mitochondria and exerts nephroprotective effects in oxonic acid‐induced hyperuricemia rats
Authors: Dera Ayed A. , Rajagopalan Prasanna , Alfhili Mohammad A. , Ahmed Irfan , Chandramoorthy Harish C
Published: November 2019

Background

Recent studies indicate hyperuricemia as an aggravating factor for kidney diseases progression. Basic research for novel agents to reduce hyperuricemia and kidney abnormalities will be highly rewarding. Herein, we report Thymoquinone (Tq) as an active constituent of Nigella sativa to have renal protective effective against oxonic acid (OA)‐induced hyperuricemia, hypertension, and renal oxidative stress in rat models.

Methods

OA 750 mg/kg BW for 12 weeks was used to induce uricemia in Sprague dawley rats. Tq at 10 and 20 mg/kg BW were administered along with OA for treatment groups. Plasma uric acid concentration and systolic blood pressure were measured. Oxidative stress markers, total ATP content, and membrane bound ATPases were measured in renal mitochondria. Anti‐oxidant enzymes were analyzed in the renal tissues. Apoptosis in renal tissue was detected. Key signaling proteins for apoptosis, oxidative stress, and lipid oxidation pathways were determined.

Results

OA induced both circulating uric acid levels and hypertension in the control group which was brought down on Tq treatments. Tq effectively prevented accumulation of uric acid and oxidative stress in the renal tissues. Tq also proved to increase the total ATP content of the renal mitochondria and prevented the apoptosis induced by OA. Tq increased the expressions of phosphorylated Akt, Nrf2, and HO‐1 proteins while decreasing the levels of cleaved caspase‐3 in renal cells.

Conclusion

In summary, Tq exhibited protective effects on hyperuricemia‐mediated renal oxidative stress and mitochondrial abnormalities which could be mediated by Nrf2/HO‐1, Akt signaling pathways.
A multiplexed in vitro assay system for evaluating human skeletal muscle functionality in response to drug treatment
Authors: Najjar Sarah A. , Smith Alexander S.T. , Long Christopher J. , McAleer Christopher W. , Cai Yunqing , Srinivasan Balaji , Martin Candace , Vandenburgh Herman H. , Hickman James J.
Published: November 2019

In vitro systems that mimic organ functionality have become increasingly important tools in drug development studies. Systems that measure the functional properties of skeletal muscle are beneficial to compound screening studies and also for integration into multiorgan devices. To date, no studies have investigated human skeletal muscle responses to drug treatments at the single myotube level in vitro. This report details a microscale cantilever chip‐based assay system for culturing individual human myotubes. The cantilevers, along with a laser and photo‐detector system, enable measurement of myotube contractions in response to broad‐field electrical stimulation. This system was used to obtain baseline functional parameters for untreated human myotubes, including peak contractile force and time‐to‐fatigue data. The cultured myotubes were then treated with known myotoxic compounds and the resulting functional changes were compared to baseline measurements as well as known physiological responses in vivo. The collected data demonstrate the system's capacity for screening direct effects of compound action on individual human skeletal myotubes in a reliable, reproducible, and noninvasive manner. Furthermore, it has the potential to be utilized for high‐content screening, disease modeling, and exercise studies of human skeletal muscle performance utilizing iPSCs derived from specific patient populations such as the muscular dystrophies.
Transanal total mesorectal excision for locally advanced middle–low rectal cancers
Authors: Thien H H , Hiep P N , Thanh P H , Xuan N T , Trung T N , Vy P T , Dong P X , Hieu M T , Son N H
Published: November 2019

Background

This study investigated the results of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) combined with laparoscopy for locally advanced mid–low rectal cancer.

Methods

Patients with mid–low locally advanced rectal cancer (T3 category or above and/or N+) who underwent rectal resection with TaTME technique were enrolled prospectively. Patients who had distant metastasis, multiple malignancies, intestinal obstruction or perforation, or a clinical complete response to chemoradiotherapy were excluded. Postoperative results, including morbidity, circumferential resection margin (CRM) assessment, short-term survival and functional outcomes, were analysed.

Results

Thirty-eight patients, with 25 mid and 13 low rectal tumours, who had elective resection by TaTME from March 2015 to September 2018 were included. There were 25 men and 13 women. Mean(s.d.) age was 58·2(16·4) years and mean(s.d.) BMI was 24·2(2·5) kg/m2. Tumours were 3–9 cm from the anal verge. Mean(s.d.) duration of surgery was 210(42) min. All patients had hand-sewn anastomoses and protective ileostomies. There were no conversions, abdominal perineal resections or postoperative deaths. Four patients had a complication, including three presacral abscesses, all managed by transanastomotic drainage. At 3 months after ileostomy closure, all patients had perfect continence. Apart from a greater tumour diameter in patients with low rectal cancers (6·0 cm versus 4·6 cm in those with mid rectal tumours; P = 0·035), clinical features were similar in the two groups. CRM positivity was greater for low than for mid rectal tumours (3 of 13 versus 0 of 25 respectively; P = 0·034), and more patients with a low tumour had TME grade 2 (4 of 13 versus 1 of 25; P = 0·038). There was no difference in oncological outcomes at 17 months.

Conclusion

Although this study cohort was small, special attention should be paid to bulky low rectal tumours to reduce the rate of CRM positivity.
A rapid, automatic and accurate assay for quantifying temocillin in human serum and CSF using turbulent flow liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Clinical application
Authors: Petitjean Grégoire , Aman‐Pommier Fabrice , Coudoré François , El Helali Najoua , Le Monnier Alban
Published: November 2019

Temocillin is a β‐lactamase‐resistant penicillin used for the treatment of multiple drug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria. To maximize efficacy and avoid adverse effects, the dose regimen has to be quickly adjusted to the clinical situations. This necessitates the development of a rapid, reliable and accurate analytical method. Temocillin and the stable isotopically labeled internal standard ([13C6]‐amoxicillin) were extracted from either serum or cerebrospinal fluid by a turbulent flow liquid chromatographic method and eluted onto an octadecyl‐silica phase with polar endcapping. Mass spectrometry was conducted using an exact mass determination method by electrospray positive ionization high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The LLOQ and ULOQ of the present method were determined to be 0.4 and 200 μg/ml for serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples, respectively. The total analysis time was <7 min. The recovery ranged from 87.7 to 120.8%. Intra‐ and inter‐day precision and trueness were tested at four concentration levels: 0.4, 8, 40 and 160 μg/ml. Values were 6.33 ± 1.53, 8.8 ± 1.3, 8.8 ± 0.36 and 2.1 ± 0.76%, and 5.0 ± 0.54, 9.9 ± 1.0, 5.8 ± 1.6 and 0.1 ± 1.1%, for inter‐ and intra‐day analysis, respectively. Temocillin was found to be stable under all relevant laboratory conditions. The method was cross‐validated with a microbiological assay. This method is suitable for accurate measurement of temocillin concentration in small volumes of serum or cerebrospinal fluid. Thanks to the online extraction procedure, the overall analytical time is compatible with high‐throughput analysis for clinical application.
Recent advances in liquid chromatographic methods for the determination of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
Authors: Jia Enze , Bartlett Michael G.
Published: November 2019

Depression is now the second largest public health burden throughout the world. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have replaced older antidepressants to become first‐line medications to treat this disease with increased remission rates and markedly decreased incidence of severe adverse events. Traditional and modern bioanalytical strategies for SSRI and SNRI determination are being continuously improved. There has also been a recent increase in the use of unconventional sample preparation methods. This review critically evaluates the development of SSRI and SNRI liquid chromatographic analytical methods published between 2014 and mid‐2019, with special attention to novel sample preparation methods.
LncRNA LOXL1‐AS1 regulates the tumorigenesis and development of lung adenocarcinoma through sponging miR‐423‐5p and targeting MYBL2
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Biao , Jia Youchao , Shi Hongyun , Wang Haibo , Guo Qiang , Li Hefei
Published: November 2019

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common form of malignant tumor and closely correlated with high risk of death worldwide. Accumulating researches have manifested that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are deeply involved in the progression of multiple cancers. LncRNA LOXL1 antisense RNA 1 (LOXL1‐AS1) was identified as an oncogene in several cancers, nonetheless, its biological effect and regulatory mechanism have not been explained in LUAD. Our present study suggested that LOXL1‐AS1 expression was considerably increased in LUAD tissues and cells. Moreover, LOXL1‐AS1 deficiency notably hampered cell proliferation and migration as well as dramatically facilitated cell apoptosis. Through molecular mechanism assays, LOXL1‐AS1 was identified as a cytoplasmic RNA and acted as a sponge of miR‐423‐5p. Furthermore, MYBL2 was targeted and negatively modified by miR‐423‐5p. Rescue experiments revealed that MYBL2 knockdown could counteract miR‐423‐5p repression‐mediated enhancement on the progression of LOXL1‐AS1 downregulated LUAD cells. More importantly, MYBL2 was discovered to interact with LOXL1‐AS1 promoter, indicating a positive feedback loop of LOXL1‐AS1/miR‐423‐5p/MYBL2 in LUAD. These findings manifested the carcinogenic role of LOXL1‐AS1 and LOXL1‐AS1/miR‐423‐5p/MYBL2 feedback loop in LUAD, which could be helpful to explore effective therapeutic strategy for LUAD patients.
Large neck metastasis of hypopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Ralli Massimo , Di Stadio Arianna , De Vincentiis Marco , Greco Antonio
Published: November 2019

Lateral neck masses may be due to congenital, infectious, or malignant disease. Sometimes, the mass can be the only sign of an asymptomatic cancer. A correct clinical approach and the differential diagnosis are the key points for a correct diagnosis.
Unexpected Isomerization of Hexa‐tert‐butyl‐octaphosphane
Authors: Grell Toni , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: November 2019

Octaphosphane {cyclo‐(P4tBu3)}2 (1) undergoes an unexpected isomerization reaction to the constitutional isomer 2,2′,2′′,2′′′,3,3′‐hexa‐tert‐butyl‐bicyclo[3.3.0]octaphosphane (2) in the presence of Lewis acidic metal salts. The mechanism of this reaction is discussed and elucidated with DFT calculations. The results underline the fascinating similarity between phosphorus‐rich and isolobal carbon compounds. The new bicyclic octaphosphane 2 shows a dynamic behavior in solution and reacts with [AuCl(tht)] (tht=tetrahydrothiophene) to give a mono‐ ([AuCl(2‐κP3)], 3) and a dinuclear complex ([(AuCl)2(2‐κP3,κP3′)], 4). With cis‐[PdCl2(cod)] (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene), the chelate complex ([PdCl2(2‐κ2P2,P2′)], 5) with a different coordination mode of the ligand was obtained.
Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology 2030
Authors: Mentré France , Friberg Lena E. , Duffull Stephen , French Jonathan , Lauffenburger Douglas A. , Li Lang , Mager Donald E. , Sinha Vikram , Sobie Eric , Zhao Ping
Published: November 2019

In 2012, a new journal was launched from the ASCPT family, CPT: Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology (PSP) as both quantitative system pharmacology (QSP) and pharmacometrics were growing fields in pharmacology, drug development, and drug use. In this Perspective, the present editors and associate editors of PSP want to share their strategic vision of where these two fields, separately and together, should, would, or could be 10 years from now.
Organs‐on‐Chips in Clinical Pharmacology: Putting the Patient Into the Center of Treatment Selection and Drug Development
Authors: Peck Richard W. , Hinojosa Christopher D. , Hamilton Geraldine A.
Published: November 2019

There have been rapid advances since Organs‐on‐Chips were first developed. Organ‐Chips are now available beyond academic laboratories with the initial emphasis to reduce animal experimentation and improve predictability of drug development through better prediction of safety and efficacy. There is now a huge opportunity to use chips to understand efficacy and disease variability. We propose that by 2030, Organs‐on‐Chips will play a key role in clinical pharmacology as part of the diagnostic and treatment workflow for some diseases by informing the right drug and dose regimen for each patient.
Recyclable High‐Performance Polymer Electrolyte Based on a Modified Methyl Cellulose–Lithium Trifluoromethanesulfonate Salt Composite for Sustainable Energy Systems
Authors: Kim Seong K. , Yoon Yeoheung , Ryu Ji Hyung , Kim Jeong Hui , Ji Seulgi , Song Wooseok , Myung Sung , Lim Jongsun , Jung Ha‐Kyun , Lee Sun Sook , Lee Jiseok , An Ki‐Seok
Published: November 2019

Although energy‐storage devices based on Li ions are considered as the most prominent candidates for immediate application in the near future, concerns with regard to their stability, safety, and environmental impact still remain. As a solution, the development of all‐solid‐state energy‐storage devices with enhanced stability is proposed. A new eco‐friendly polymer electrolyte has been synthesized by incorporating lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate into chemically modified methyl cellulose (LiTFS–LiSMC). The transparent and flexible electrolyte exhibits a good conductivity of near 1 mS cm−1. An all‐solid‐state supercapacitor fabricated from 20 wt % LiTFS–LiSMC shows comparable specific capacitances to a standard liquid‐electrolyte supercapacitor and an excellent stability even after 20 000 charge–discharge cycles. The electrolyte is also compatible with patterned carbon, which enables the simple fabrication of micro‐supercapacitors. In addition, the LiTFS–LiSMC electrolyte can be recycled and reused more than 20 times with negligible change in its performance. Thus, it is a promising material for sustainable energy‐storage devices.
Intravital Multiphoton Imaging of the Bone and Bone Marrow Environment
Authors: Kim JungMo , Bixel Maria Gabriele
Published: November 2019

Over the last two decades, numerous advances in our understanding of bone cell biology and bone mineral homeostasis have been achieved. As a dynamic connective and supportive tissue, bone is constantly sensing and responding to both external mechanical forces and internal systemic and local signals. A variety of intravital imaging approaches have been investigated to identify molecular and cellular processes and to decipher signaling pathways involved in the cellular communication between different types of bone cells that form bone multicellular units. Furthermore, bone multicellular units interact with cells of the immune and hematopoietic system to maintain bone homeostasis. Bone‐forming osteoblasts and bone‐degrading osteoclasts are situated on the endosteal surface of bone influencing the dynamic remodeling and the regeneration of bone tissue. Osteocytes are found at very unique locations in the bone, closely surrounded by bone matrix, forming a cellular network through their interconnected dendritic processes. Bone marrow cells fill the numerous large cavities inside the bones with various blood cell lineages arising from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. A highly complex and interconnected network of arterial vessels and sinusoidal capillaries span through the bone marrow spaces forming an interface between the blood circulation and the bone marrow which allows cell trafficking between both compartments. Live imaging of animals using multiphoton microscopy represents a powerful approach to address the cellular behaviors of bone and bone marrow cells over time and space in their natural tissue microenvironment. The in vivo environment is crucial, because the dynamic behavior of cells is critically influenced by many tissue factors including extracellular components, cytokine and growth factor gradients, and fluid forces, such as blood flow. The review article focuses upon recent advances in multiphoton imaging technologies as well as novel experimental approaches in the understanding of the dynamic molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying bone tissue homeostasis, remodeling, and regeneration under physiological and pathological conditions. © 2019 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Synthesis, molecular modeling studies, ADME prediction of arachidonic acid carbamate derivatives, and evaluation of their acetylcholinesterase activity
Authors: Kalin Tugce N. , Kilic Deryanur , Arslan Fatma , Colak Ozlem , Altundas Aliye
Published: November 2019

In this work, a series of novel anandamide units containing carbamate were designed and synthesized. All the derivatives were evaluated in vitro for their inhibitory potential against the electric eel acetylcholinesterase enzyme (AChE) and showed reversible inhibitions. The compounds 7a, 7d, 7e, and 7f are mixed inhibitors of AChE, while the compounds 7b, 7c, and 7g are uncompetitive (Ki in the range 0.93–8.86 μM). The kinetic studies revealed that compounds 7b, 7c, 7f, and 7g inhibit considerably AChE activity. Molecular docking analyses were made to evaluate the binding type and interactions of the synthesized compounds to the ligand‐binding site of hAChE. It was observed that the docking results were in parallel with the in vitro results. The adsorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion properties were computed for the compounds, and were found within the acceptable range. This study suggests the compounds 7b, 7c, 7f, and 7g identified as novel reversible AChE inhibitors may be useful lead compounds for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Matching pH values for antibody stabilization and crystallization suggest rationale for accelerated development of biotherapeutic drugs
Authors: Sjuts Hanno , Schreuder Herman , Engel Christian K. , Bussemer Till , Gokarn Yatin
Published: November 2019

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are currently leading products in the global biopharmaceutical market. Multiple mAbs are in clinical development and novel biotherapeutic protein scaffolds, based on the canonical immunoglobulin G (IgG) fold, are emerging as treatment options for various medical conditions. However, fast approvals for biotherapeutics are challenging to achieve, because of difficult scientific development procedures and complex regulatory processes. Selecting molecular entities with superior physicochemical properties that proceed into clinical trials and the identification of stable formulations are crucial developability aspects. It is widely accepted that the solution pH has critical influences on both the protein's colloidal stability and its crystallization behavior. Furthermore, proteins usually crystallize best at solution conditions that enable high protein solubility, purity, stability, and monodispersity. Therefore, we hypothesize that the solution pH value is a central parameter that is linking together protein formulation, protein crystallization, and thermal protein stability. In order to experimentally test this hypothesis, we have investigated the effect of the solution pH on the thermal stabilities and crystallizabilities for three different mAbs. Combining biophysical measurements with high throughput protein (HTP) crystallization trials we observed a correlation in the buffer pH values for eminent mAb stability and successful crystallization. Specifically, differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) was used to determine pH values that exert highest thermal mAb stabilities and additionally led to the identification of unfolding temperatures of individual mAb domains. Independently performed crystallization trials with the same mAbs resulted in their successful crystallization at pH values that displayed highest thermal stabilities. In summary, the presented results suggest a strategy how protein crystallization could be used as a screening method for the development of biotherapeutic protein formulations with improved in vitro stabilities.