bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Conductive Hybrid Architecture of Metal–Organic Framework Nanowire Array on Polypyrrole Membrane for All‐Solid‐State Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Hou Ruizuo , Miao Mao , Wang Qingyong , Yue Ting , Liu Hongfang , Park Ho Seok , Qi Kai , Xia Bao Yu
Published: November 2019

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with intrinsically porous structures are promising candidates for energy storage, however, their low electrical conductivity limits their electrochemical energy storage applications. Herein, the hybrid architecture of intrinsically conductive Cu‐MOF nanowire arrays on self‐supported polypyrrole (PPy) membrane is reported for integrated flexible supercapacitor (SC) electrodes without any inactive additives, binders, or substrates involved. The conductive Cu‐MOFs nanowire arrays afford high conductivity and a sufficiently active surface area for the accessibility of electrolyte, whereas the PPy membrane provides decent mechanical flexibility, efficient charge transfer skeleton, and extra capacitance. The all‐solid‐state flexible SC using integrated hybrid electrode demonstrates an exceptional areal capacitance of 252.1 mF cm−2, an energy density of 22.4 µWh cm−2, and a power density of 1.1 mW cm−2, accompanied by an excellent cycle capability and mechanical flexibility over a wide range of working temperatures. This work not only presents a robust and flexible electrode for wide temperature range operating SC but also offers valuable concepts with regards to designing MOF‐based hybrid materials for energy storage and conversion systems.
Patterns of health service use following work‐related injury and illness in Australian truck drivers: A latent class analysis
Authors: Xia Ting , Iles Ross , Newnam Sharon , Lubman Dan I. , Collie Alex
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To identify patterns of health service use (HSU) in truck drivers with work‐related injury or illness and to identify demographic and work‐related factors associated with patterns of care.

Method

All accepted workers’ compensation claims from truck drivers lodged between 2004 and 2013 in Victoria were included. Episodes of HSU were categorised according to practitioner type. Latent class analysis was used to identify the distinct profiles of users with different patterns of HSU. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the associations between latent class and predictors.

Results

Four profiles of HSU were identified: (a) Low Service Users (55% of the sample) were more likely to be younger, have an injury that did not result in time off work and have conditions other than a musculoskeletal injury; (b) High Service Users (10%) tended to be those aged between 45 and 64 years, living in major cities with musculoskeletal conditions that resulted in time off work; (c) Physical Therapy Users (25%) were more likely to be aged between 45 and 64 years, live in major cities and have nontraumatic injuries that resulted in time off work; and (d) GP/Mental Health Users (10%) were more likely to be over 24 years of age, from the lowest socioeconomic band, be employed by smaller organizations and be claiming benefits for a mental health condition.

Conclusions

This study identified distinct categories of HSU among truck drivers following work‐related injury. The results can be used to prioritize occupational health and safety promotion to maintain a healthy truck driver work force.
Synthesis, structure, luminescence and electrochemical and antioxidant properties of anion‐controlled silver(I) complexes with 2,2′‐(1,4‐butanediyl)bis‐1,3‐benzoxazole
Authors: Wu Huilu , Xia Lixian , Qu Yao , Zhao Kun , Wang Cong , Wu Yancong
Published: November 2019

To explore the influence of various anions on the self‐assembly and properties of silver complexes, reactions of anions of silver salts with 2,2′‐(1,4‐butanediyl)bis‐1,3‐benzoxazole (BBO) afforded four complexes, formulated as [Ag2(BBO)2(p‐toluenesulfonate)2] (1), {[Ag(BBO)(picrate)]}∞ (2), {[Ag(BBO)1/2(o‐coumarate)]·DMF}∞ (3) and {[Ag2(BBO)3](PF6)2}∞ (4). These complexes were characterized using elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The crystal analysis results show that under the influence of coordination modes and steric hindrance of anions, the complexes exhibited binuclear (1), one‐dimensional polymeric (2 and 3) and two‐dimensional polymeric (4) structures. Compared with the BBO ligand, only complex 1 has a new emission peak at 428 nm, which is attributed to ligand–metal charge transfer. The emission peaks of complexes 2–4 are similar to those of the BBO ligand, which can be due to π–π* and n–π* transitions. These results indicate that anions can modulate the structures and luminescent properties of silver complexes. Moreover, cyclic voltammograms of 1–4 indicated an irreversible Ag+/Ag couple with the order of reversibility being 2 > 1 > 4 > 3. In vitro antioxidant experiments showed that complex 3 has significant antioxidant activity against superoxide and hydroxyl radicals.
User adoption of physician's replies in an online health community: An empirical study
Authors: Zhang Yanli , Li Xinmiao , Fan Weiguo
Published: November 2019

Online health question‐and‐answer consultation with physicians is becoming a common phenomenon. However, it is unclear how users identify the most satisfying reply. Based on the dual‐process theory of knowledge adoption, we developed a conceptual model and empirical method to study which factors influence adoption of a reply. We extracted 6 variables for argument quality (Ease of understanding, Relevance, Completeness, Objectivity, Timeliness, Structure) and 4 for source credibility (Physician's online experience, Physician's offline expertise, Hospital location, Hospital level). The empirical results indicate that both central and peripheral routes affect user's adoption of a response. Physician's offline expertise negatively affects user's adoption decision, while physician's online experience positively affects it; this effect is positively moderated by user involvement.
An exploratory study comparing students' science identity perceptions derived from a hands‐on research and nonresearch‐based summer learning experience
Authors: Hernandez‐Matias Liz , Pérez‐Donato Lizmar , Román Pablo Llerandi , Laureano‐Torres Faviola , Calzada‐Jorge Natalia , Mendoza Stephanie , Washington A. Valance , Borrero Michelle
Published: November 2019

Although multiple efforts have been initiated to increase students' science proficiency scores, most of the schools in the United States do not reach the expected student academic performance. This study addresses the impact of a one‐week summer scientific learning experience on students that worked with experimental procedures and students that did not. We describe and evaluate these two different interventions to explore what components influence high school students' perception of their scientific competence, performance, and recognition, using science identity as an analytical lens. Science identity score was increased at the end of both interventions. Interestingly, science identity change index was higher for the group that did not work with experimental procedures. Although this group did not perform any hands‐on experiments, they report, through reflexive diaries and interviews that working with CRISPR‐Cas9 models, being in a research laboratory, and seeing the instrumentation made them feel like scientists. Regarding science competence, both groups report exponential learning gains, although the group that performed the experiments reports more difficulties. Both groups report that mentorship was key in their competence and performance development. These findings suggest that our one‐week scientific learning programs influence participants' perception of scientific competence and performance and create an opportunity to develop further studies on short scientific learning experiences using models and active learning activities.
Microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for determination of volatile small molecules to evaluate compatibility of antimicrobial peptide PL‐5 spray with packaging materials
Authors: Liu Chu , Yu Xiangyong , Meng Zhaorui , Zhao Ning , Bai Fujuan , Zhao Longshan
Published: November 2019

A simple and efficient method involving microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) combined with GC–MS was established to determine 1,3‐di‐tert‐butylbenzene (DBB), 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol (DBP), 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde (DBHBA) for evaluating the compatibility of antimicrobial peptide PL‐5 spray with drug‐packaging materials. In this study, the antimicrobial peptide PL‐5 spray was purified using a Welchrom C18 column, and the high‐density polyethylene spray bottle with liquid collection tube was first mixed with absolute ethanol, which would be subjected to MAE for further measurement by GC–MS. Various experimental parameters were systematically optimized, and good linearities were obtained within the range of 0.05–1.00 μg/mL for DBB and DBHBA and 0.50–10.00 μg/mL for DBP, with limits of detection (LODs) of 0.99 ng/mL (DBB), 16.34 ng/mL (DBP), and 1.64 ng/mL (DBHBA). Satisfactory recoveries that ranged from 96.0% to 107.2% were acquired, and the relative standard deviation was ≤ 4.7%. The results showed that the maximum daily usage of DBB, DBP, and DBHBA was 9.859, 163.445, and 16.399 ng, respectively, which was far below the corresponding permitted daily exposure values according to the safety assessment, indicating that the migration of analytes did not bring any potential safety risk. The compatibility between the drug and the packaging materials was favorable.
Sustainable entrepreneurship, innovation, and business models: Integrative framework and propositions for future research
Authors: Lüdeke‐Freund Florian
Published: November 2019

This article introduces the business models for sustainability innovation (BMfSI) framework to study how business models mediate between sustainability innovations and business cases for sustainability. The BMfSI framework integrates two major perspectives (implicitly) found in the sustainable business model literature. The first is the agency perspective. It takes into consideration that some form of agency is needed, that is, “someone” who takes decisions and acts. Sustainable entrepreneurs are discussed as those agents who align their new or existing business models with sustainability innovations in order to be successful in business and to create value with and for stakeholders. The second perspective is the systems perspective, which acknowledges that business models are always embedded within sociotechnical contexts through which, for example, public policies, private financing, or stakeholder interests influence whether and how business models can be developed. The agency and systems perspectives are integrated in the so‐called business model mediation space. This theoretical notion embraces the decisions and activities pursued by sustainable entrepreneurs as they align their business models with sustainability innovations on the one hand and the influence of environmental contingencies, barriers, and stakeholders from the sociotechnical context on the other hand. The paper concludes with propositions for future research derived from the BMfSI framework.
Phase III randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study of monosialotetrahexosylganglioside for the prevention of oxaliplatin‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity in stage II/III colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang De‐shen , Wang Zhi‐qiang , Chen Gong , Peng Jie‐wen , Wang Wei , Deng Yan‐hong , Wang Feng‐hua , Zhang Jian‐wei , Liang Han‐lin , Feng Fen , Xie Chuan‐bo , Ren Chao , Jin Ying , Shi Si‐mei , Fan Wen‐hua , Lu Zhen‐hai , Ding Pei‐rong , Wang Feng , Xu Rui‐hua , Li Yu‐hong
Published: November 2019

Background

Monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1) is a neuroprotective glycosphingolipid that repairs nerves. Oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy is neurotoxic. This study assessed the efficacy of GM1 for preventing oxaliplatin‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (OIPN) in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients receiving oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy.

Methods

In total, 196 patients with stage II/III CRC undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6 were randomly assigned to intravenous GM1 or a placebo. The primary endpoint was the rate of grade 2 or worse cumulative neurotoxicity (NCI‐CTCAE). The secondary endpoints were chronic cumulative neurotoxicity (EORTC QLQ‐CIPN20), time to grade 2 neurotoxicity (NCI‐CTCAE or the oxaliplatin‐specific neuropathy scale), acute neurotoxicity (analog scale), rates of dose reduction or withdrawal due to OIPN, 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) and adverse events.

Results

There were no significant differences between the arms in the rate of NCI‐CTCAE grade 2 or worse neurotoxicity (GM1: 33.7% vs placebo: 31.6%; P = .76) or neuropathy measured by the EORTC QLQ‐CIPN20 or time to grade 2 neurotoxicity using NCI‐CTCAE and the oxaliplatin‐specific neuropathy scale. GM1 substantially decreased participant‐reported acute neurotoxicity (sensitivity to cold items [P < .01], discomfort swallowing cold liquids [P < .01], throat discomfort [P < .01], muscle cramps [P < .01]). The rates of dose reduction or withdrawal were not significantly different between the arms (P = .08). The 3‐year DFS rates were 85% and 83% in the GM1 and placebo arms, respectively (P = .19). There were no differences in toxicity between the arms.

Conclusion

Patients receiving GM1 were less troubled by the symptoms of acute neuropathy. However, we do not support the use of GM1 to prevent cumulative neurotoxicity. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02251977).
Associations of reproductive factors with breast cancer prognosis and the modifying effects of menopausal status
Authors: Zhang Jia‐Yi , Wang Mei‐Xia , Wang Xiang , Li Yue‐Lin , Liang Zhuo‐Zhi , Lin Ying , Liu Qiang , Xie Xiao‐Ming , Tang Lu‐Ying , Ren Ze‐Fang
Published: November 2019

Reproductive factors associated with breast cancer risk may also affect the prognosis. This study aimed to evaluate the associations of multiple reproductive factors with breast cancer prognosis and the modifying effects of menopausal status. We obtained data from 3805 breast cancer patients recruited between October 2008 and June 2016 in Guangzhou. The subjects were followed up until 30 June 2018. The hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using multivariate Cox models to estimate the associations. It was found that there were U‐shaped patterns for the associations of age at first birth and durations from first/last birth to diagnosis with breast cancer prognosis. The adverse effects of old age at first birth [>30 years vs 23‐30 years, HR (95% CI): 1.59 (1.01‐2.50)] and long intervals from first [≥20 years vs 10‐19 years, HR (95% CI): 1.55 (1.07‐2.27)] or last [≥20 years vs 10‐19 years, HR (95% CI): 1.63 (1.08‐2.46)] birth to diagnosis on progression‐free survival (PFS) were significantly more pronounced among premenopausal women. Additionally, long interval (>5 years) between first and second birth was associated with a better PFS [HR (95% CI): 0.64 (0.42‐0.97)]. These results suggested that age at first birth, durations from first/last birth to diagnosis, and intervals between first and second birth should be taken into account when following the patients and assessing the prognosis of breast cancer, particularly for premenopausal patients. These findings would also have implications for further insight into the mechanisms of breast cancer development.
Rationale and design of a navigator‐driven remote optimization of guideline‐directed medical therapy in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Blood Alexander J. , Fischer Christina M. , Fera Liliana E. , MacLean Taylor E. , Smith Katelyn V. , Dunning Jacqueline R. , Bosque‐Hamilton Joshua W. , Aronson Samuel J. , Gaziano Thomas A. , MacRae Calum A. , Matta Lina S. , Mercurio‐Pinto Ana A. , Murphy Shawn N. , Scirica Benjamin M. , Wagholikar Kavishwar , Desai Akshay S.
Published: November 2019

Although optimal pharmacological therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is carefully scripted by treatment guidelines, many eligible patients are not treated with guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) in clinical practice. We designed a strategy for remote optimization of GDMT on a population scale in patients with HFrEF leveraging nonphysician providers. An electronic health record‐based algorithm was used to identify a cohort of patients with a diagnosis of heart failure (HF) and ejection fraction (EF) ≤ 40% receiving longitudinal follow‐up at our center. Those with end‐stage HF requiring inotropic support, mechanical circulatory support, or transplantation and those enrolled in hospice or palliative care were excluded. Treating providers were approached for consent to adjust medical therapy according to a sequential, stepped titration algorithm modeled on the current American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) HF Guidelines within a collaborative care agreement. The program was approved by the institutional review board at Brigham and Women's Hospital with a waiver of written informed consent. All patients provided verbal consent to participate. A navigator then facilitated medication adjustments by telephone and conducted longitudinal surveillance of laboratories, blood pressure, and symptoms. Each titration step was reviewed by a pharmacist with supervision as needed from a nurse practitioner and HF cardiologist. Patients were discharged from the program to their primary cardiologist after achievement of an optimal or maximally tolerated regimen. A navigator‐led remote management strategy for optimization of GDMT may represent a scalable population‐level strategy for closing the gap between guidelines and clinical practice in patients with HFrEF.
End‐of‐life care among adolescent and young adult patients with cancer living in poverty
Authors: Roeland Eric J. , Lindley Lisa C. , Gilbertson‐White Stephanie , Saeidzadeh Seyedehtanaz , Currie Erin R. , Friedman Sarah , Bakitas Marie , Mack Jennifer W.
Published: November 2019

Background

To the authors' knowledge, end‐of‐life (EOL) care outcomes among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer who are living in poverty remain poorly understood. The primary aim of the current study was to examine the effect of poverty on EOL care for AYA patients with cancer.

Methods

The authors conducted a multisite, retrospective study of AYA patients with cancer aged 15 to 39 years who died between January 2013 and December 2016 at 3 academic sites. Medical record‐based EOL care outcomes included hospice referral, palliative care (PC) consultation, cancer treatment within the last month of life, and location of death. Two measures of poverty were applied: 1) zip code with a median income ≤200% of the federal poverty level; and 2) public insurance or lack of insurance. Logistic regression analyses were conducted.

Results

A total of 252 AYA cancer decedents were identified. Approximately 41% lived in a high‐poverty zip code and 48% had public insurance or lacked insurance; approximately 70% had at least 1 poverty indicator. Nearly 40% had a hospice referral, 60% had a PC consultation (76% on an inpatient basis), 38% received EOL cancer treatment, and 39% died in the hospital. In bivariable analyses, AYA patients living in low‐income zip codes were found to be less likely to enroll in hospice (P ≤ .01), have an early PC referral (P ≤ .01), or receive EOL cancer treatment (P = .03), although only EOL cancer treatment met statistical significance in multivariable models. No differences with regard to location of death (P = .99) were observed.

Conclusions

AYA patients with cancer experience low rates of hospice referral and high rates of in‐hospital death regardless of socioeconomic status. Future studies should evaluate early inpatient PC referrals as a possible method for improving EOL care.
Neurologic complications of melanoma
Authors: Cohen Justine V. , Wang Nancy , Venur Vyshak A. , Hadfield Matthew J. , Cahill Daniel P. , Oh Kevin , Brastianos Priscilla K.
Published: November 2019

Neurologic complications are common in patients with melanoma and are often associated with a poor prognosis. In an era with new, effective treatments, patients are living longer, and this has resulted in an increase in complications of both the disease and the therapy. A multidisciplinary approach to neurologic complications in patients with melanoma, with involvement from medical oncology, neuro‐oncology, radiation oncology, and often neurosurgery, is necessary. In this review, neurologic complications of melanoma, including clinical implications and treatment strategies, are described.
Beyond Randomized Clinical Trials: Use of External Controls
Authors: Schmidli Heinz , Häring Dieter A. , Thomas Marius , Cassidy Adrian , Weber Sebastian , Bretz Frank
Published: November 2019

Randomized controlled trials are the gold standard to investigate efficacy and safety of new treatments. In certain settings, however, randomizing patients to control may be difficult for ethical or feasibility reasons. Borrowing strength using relevant individual patient data on control from external trials or real‐world data (RWD) sources may then allow us to reduce, or even eliminate, the concurrent control group. Naive direct use of external control data is not valid due to differences in patient characteristics and other confounding factors. Instead, we suggest the rigorous application of meta‐analytic and propensity score methods to use external controls in a principled way. We illustrate these methods with two case studies: (i) a single‐arm trial in a rare cancer disease, using propensity score matching to construct an external control from RWD; (ii) a randomized trial in children with multiple sclerosis, borrowing strength from past trials using a Bayesian meta‐analytic approach.
Economic impact of the POP mode on distribution network reconstruction in the ‘coal‐to‐electricity’ project of the grid company in China: a new electricity transaction mode
Authors: Zhang Caiqing , Xu Lingli
Published: November 2019

The ‘coal to electricity’ carried out by the grid company has had poor economic performance during its life cycle. This paper aims to investigate the economic impact of the package deal of off‐peak electricity transaction mode (POP) on the ‘coal‐to‐electricity’ project in comparison with peak and valley electricity price (PVP). The incremental net present value and the incremental benefit–cost ratio are selected as the main economical evaluating indicators. Taking a coal‐to‐electricity project in a region of Beijing, China, as an example to study the economic benefit of the grid company in POP. The results indicate that the economic benefit of the grid company is increased by 48% in POP compared to that in PVP. The incremental benefit–cost ratio is less than 1, which demonstrates that POP is conducive to improving the current loss status of the grid company. It is helpful to raise the grid company's enthusiasm for conducting the coal‐to‐electricity project. Finally, corresponding suggestions are put forward to help the grid company in improving the negative economic benefit. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Paleoproterozoic (~2.0 Ga) volcano‐plutonism in the southeastern region of the Amazon Craton: Petrological aspects and geotectonic implications
Authors: Braga Luisa Gomes , Pierosan Ronaldo , Geraldes Mauro César
Published: November 2019

Detailed studies on the volcano‐plutonic associations of the Amazon Craton (AC) have been conducted since the 1980s. Since then, several issues concerning the definition of the lithostratigraphic units and their role in the AC evolution have been improved. Recently, a volcano‐plutonic association of around 2.0 Ga was described in the south‐central part of the AC, named as Jarinã Formation (volcanic rocks) and Vila Rica Intrusive Suite (granitoids). The present work deals with the unexpected occurrence of this volcano‐plutonic association in the southeastern region of the Amazon Craton. In the study area (Santaninha region), the rocks of the Jarinã Formation comprise two volcanic successions with distinct petrographic and compositional features. The amount and shape of the phenocrysts and crystal fragments allow the individualization of effusive and pyroclastic rocks. The geochemical character indicates that the volcanic rocks belong to two distinct successions as follows: intermediate to acid magnesian I‐type and acid ferroan A‐type. The I‐type succession shows high MgO, TiO2, P2O5, and Sr content and low K2O, Zr, Nb, Ta, Y, and heavy rare earth element and consists of undeformed andesitic to dacitic ignimbrites and subordinate effusive rhyodacites. The A‐type succession present high K2O, FeOt, Zr, Nb, Ta, Y, and heavy rare earth element content and low TiO2, P2O5, and Sr and comprises undeformed rhyolitic ignimbrites and subordinate effusive rhyolites. The granitoids of the Vila Rica Intrusive Suite crosscut the volcanic rocks of the Jarinã Formation and include two phaneritic facies as follows: coarse‐ to medium‐grained granite and medium‐grained granite. The MgO, TiO2, P2O5, Sr, K2O, Zr, Nb, Ta, Y, and rare earth element content demonstrate that the medium‐grained granite facies present geochemical characteristic of I‐type granites. Laser‐ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry U–Pb zircon data indicate crystallization ages of 2,009 ± 9 Ma for the I‐type dacitic ignimbrite, 1,994 ± 16 Ma for the A‐type rhyolitic ignimbrite, and 1,995 ± 14 Ma for the I‐type medium‐grained granite. These ages agree with the previous data of the Jarinã Formation in the south‐central region of the Amazon Craton and of the Vilca Rica Intrusive Suite in the southeastern of the Amazon Craton. The understanding of the geological context of these units carry on meaningful implications to the contextualization of the ~2.0 Ga volcano‐plutonic event in the AC and, consequently, to the compartimentalization of its geotectonic provinces.
Light‐guided renal cyst fenestration during laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy in a patient with left ureteropelvic junction obstruction
Authors: Yamasaki Kazumitsu , Uchida Masahiro , Nishijima Yukiko , Hoshi Akio , Nishiyama Hiroyuki
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy is a useful alternative to laparoscopic pyeloplasty for treating ureteropelvic junction obstruction under certain conditions. One concern regarding this technique is the inevitability of amputation of the renal lower pole to expose the lower renal calyx.

Case presentation

A 43‐year‐old man who presented ureteropelvic junction obstruction and multiple renal cysts underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty, which could not be performed because of the intrarenal ureteropelvic junction. We switched the surgical technique to modified laparoscopic ureterocalicostomy, wherein amputation of the lower renal pole was substituted with fenestration of a renal cyst under the guidance of ureteroscopic light. Computed tomography performed 2 months postoperatively showed good patency of the anastomosis.

Conclusion

Light‐guided laparoscopic renal cyst fenestration followed by ureterocalicostomy is feasible in patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction and lower pole renal cysts adjacent to the lower renal calyx.
A novel mutation in USF1 gene is associated with familial combined hyperlipidemia
Authors: Taghizadeh Eskandar , Mirzaei Farzaneh , Jalilian Nazanin , Ghayour Mobarhan Majid , Ferns Gordon A. , Pasdar Alireza
Published: November 2019

Background

Familial combined hyperlipidemia or FCHL is one of the most common genetic causes of hyperlipidemia and is associated with elevation of cholesterol, triglycerides or both, and increased serum apolipoprotein B (apoB). Linkage analysis and next generation sequencing have been successfully used for identifying rare genetic variants that have moderate‐to‐large effects.

Methods

We characterized a large pedigree from a proband identified following recruitment into the MASHAD study, in northeast Iran, with FCHL accompanied by early‐onset coronary artery disease. We used linkage analysis for several candidate regions in previous studies such as 1q21‐23, 11q23, and 8p, and then whole‐exome sequencing to identify the disease‐associated gene in this family.

Results

We identified a novel variant in the USF1 gene, leading to a substitution of a tryptophan for arginine at position 196. Arg196Trp co‐segregated in all the affected family members in this pedigree with clinical syndrome and was not found in any unaffected family members of this pedigree, or in unrelated controls.

Conclusions

We speculate that this mutation [Arg196Trp] in the USF1 gene might be associated with FCHL and early‐onset coronary heart disease in this family. However, the substantial mechanism requires further investigation. These findings indicate that USF1 plays an important role in the biological pathways associated with lipid metabolism.
A Computational Analysis of the Intrinsic Plasticity of Five‐Coordinate Cu(II) Complexes and the Factors Leading to the Breakdown of the Orbital Directing Effect in Paddlewheel Secondary Building Units
Authors: Alzahrani Khalid A. H. , Deeth Robert J.
Published: November 2019

Quantum chemical calculations on model copper paddlewheel (CPW) complexes of general formula [Cu2(μ2‐O2CR)4L2] establish two local coordination geometries at the metal centers depending on the balance between equatorial and axial ligand fields. When the equatorial field is stronger than the axial field (large ligand field asymmetry), dominates the stereochemical activity of the d9 shell resulting in a relatively rigid, “orbitally directed” planar or square pyramidal structure. However, if the axial field is significantly increased, or the equatorial field moderately weakened, a small ligand field asymmetry results and both and are involved in the stereochemical activity. This results in a “plastic,” distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry where the former axial ligand moves into one of the original four equatorial positions. Linkers already used to synthesize zinc‐dabco MOFs (dabco = 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) are shown to generate plastic CPW secondary building unit analogs with potential implications for conferring breathing behavior for MOFs which would currently be assumed to be rigid. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of long non‐coding RNA MVIH as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Jiang Zhiyong , Yu Qinghong , Luo Xinguo
Published: November 2019

Background

This study aimed to investigate the correlation of long non‐coding RNA microvascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma (lncRNA MVIH) with disease risk, disease conditions, and prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and also to investigate the influence of lncRNA MVIH on AML cell activities in vitro.

Methods

A total of 212 AML patients and 70 controls were consecutively recruited. Their bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) were isolated, and lncRNA MVIH was detected by reverse transcription quantitative‐polymerase chain reaction. In AML patients, complete remission (CR), event‐free survival (EFS), and overall survival (OS) were assessed. In vitro, lncRNA MVIH expression in AML cell lines was determined, and the effect of lncRNA MVIH on AML cell proliferation and apoptosis was assessed.

Results

LncRNA MVIH expression was increased in AML patients compared to controls, and receiver operating characteristic curve showed that lncRNA MVIH predicted elevated AML risk (area under curve: 0.742 [95% CI: 0.674‐0.810]). In AML patients, no correlation of lncRNA MVIH expression with French‐American‐British classification was observed, while lncRNA MVIH high expression correlated with worse risk stratification. Moreover, lncRNA MVIH expression negatively correlated with CR achievement, EFS and OS. In vitro, lncRNA MVIH was overexpressed in AML cell lines (KG‐1, ME‐1, and HT‐93) compared to normal BMMCs. Furthermore, lncRNA MVIH downregulation reduced KG‐1 cell proliferation but increased apoptosis, whereas lncRNA MVIH upregulation raised HL‐60 cell proliferation but decreased apoptosis.

Conclusion

LncRNA MVIH may not only serve as a prognostic marker but also act as a therapeutic target in AML.
Outcome of acute pancreatitis in octogenarians: A retrospective study
Authors: Di Mauro Davide , Wijesurendere Chinthaka N , Attanasio Andrea , Fulgenzi Claudia A M , Elkhuffash Iyad , Ricciardi Edoardo , Wajed Shahjehan , Manzelli Antonio
Published: November 2019

Background and Aim

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common disease, but data on outcomes in octogenarians are scarce in the literature. The aim of this study is to analyze results from patients aged 80 years old and over who were treated for AP at a single center.

Methods

Patients aged 80 years and older diagnosed with AP from April 2010 to October 2015 were considered. Demographics, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), serum biochemistry at 24 and 48 h after admission, and revised Atlanta severity score were analyzed and correlated with hospital mortality rate and length of stay using the multiple regression and Kaplan–Meier tests.

Results

A total of 100 consecutive patients were included in the study. There were 52 women, and the mean age was 87.5 years (range 80–95). Gallstones were the most common cause of AP (69.7%). The ASA score was ≥III in 51 patients. Eight patients had severe, disease and all of them died in hospital. A CCI > 4 was associated with higher disease severity and mortality (P < 0.00001). The median hospital stay was 9 days (range 1–59). Longer hospital stay was associated with serum C‐reactive protein ≥242 mg/L (P = 0.01) and serum albumin ≤30 g/L (P = 0.01) at 48 h. Over a 5‐year period, 22% of patients were readmitted to hospital with recurrent AP. Gallstones were the main cause of disease (63.6%).

Conclusions

AP in octogenarians has low mortality. Higher death rate is associated with disease severity. In the presence of gallstone disease, cholecystectomy is recommended whenever possible as the risk of disease recurrence is significant.
Effects of defects in hybrid sheet moulding compound – Evaluation of defects and the impact on mechanical properties
Authors: Schäferling M. , Häfner B. , Lanza G. , Trauth A. , Weidenmann K. , Thompson M.
Published: November 2019

Sheet moulding compound is a widely used fibre‐reinforced material. Generally, it consists of discontinuous glass fibres in a thermoset matrix system. Due to the finite fibre length, mechanical properties of structural components are limited. To overcome this drawback, sheet moulding compound is locally reinforced with a unidirectional carbon fibre sheet moulding compound material in the approach presented in this contribution. The manufacturing of this hybrid material consisting of discontinuous glass fibre sheet moulding compound and continuous carbon fibre sheet moulding compound can result in different defects, such as folds or fibre misalignments. These defects may affect mechanical properties of the hybrid material. Consequently, this article deals with the investigation and analysis of defective hybrid sheet moulding compound components, which were examined by means of tensile tests. Results point out that investigated defects have different effects on mechanical properties. However, independent from the type of defect, mechanical properties were reduced. With a reduction of 68.86 %, folds have one of the greatest influences on tensile strength. In addition, depending on the angle deviation, even greater reductions can occur. Furthermore, the reduction of the mechanical properties can be identified clearly with increasing angle deviation.
T1‐corrected quantitative chemical shift‐encoded MRI
Authors: Wang Xiaoke , Colgan Timothy J. , Hinshaw Louis A. , Roberts Nathan T. , Bancroft Leah C. Henze , Hamilton Gavin , Hernando Diego , Reeder Scott B.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To develop and validate a T1‐corrected chemical‐shift encoded MRI (CSE‐MRI) method to improve noise performance and reduce bias for quantification of tissue proton density fat‐fraction (PDFF).

Methods

A variable flip angle (VFA)‐CSE‐MRI method using joint‐fit reconstruction was developed and implemented. In computer simulations and phantom experiments, sources of bias measured using VFA‐CSE‐MRI were investigated. The effect of tissue T1 on bias using low flip angle (LFA)‐CSE‐MRI was also evaluated. The noise performance of VFA‐CSE‐MRI was compared to LFA‐CSE‐MRI for liver fat quantification. Finally, a prospective pilot study in patients undergoing gadoxetic acid‐enhanced MRI of the liver to evaluate the ability of the proposed method to quantify liver PDFF before and after contrast.

Results

VFA‐CSE‐MRI was accurate and insensitive to transmit B1 inhomogeneities in phantom experiments and computer simulations. With high flip angles, phase errors because of RF spoiling required modification of the CSE signal model. For relaxation parameters commonly observed in liver, the joint‐fit reconstruction improved the noise performance marginally, compared to LFA‐CSE‐MRI, but eliminated T1‐related bias. A total of 25 patients were successfully recruited and analyzed for the pilot study. Strong correlation and good agreement between PDFF measured with VFA‐CSE‐MRI and LFA‐CSE‐MRI (pre‐contrast) was observed before (R2 = 0.97; slope = 0.88, 0.81–0.94 95% confidence interval [CI]; intercept = 1.34, −0.77–1.92 95% CI) and after (R2 = 0.93; slope = 0.88, 0.78–0.98 95% CI; intercept = 1.90, 1.01–2.79 95% CI) contrast.

Conclusion

Joint‐fit VFA‐CSE‐MRI is feasible for T1‐corrected PDFF quantification in liver, is insensitive to B1 inhomogeneities, and can eliminate T1 bias, but with only marginal SNR advantage for T1 values observed in the liver.
Reply
Authors: Peterson Gordon W. , Tsao Bryan E. , Nist Laura D. , Brandstater Murray E.
Published: November 2019

See editorial on pages E12–E12 in this issue.
A potential additional diagnostic use for exercising the CMAP
Authors: Richardson James K. , Rowdon Gregory A.
Published: November 2019

See editorial on pages E13–E13 in this issue.
A Survivor's Journey: Preliminary efficacy of an online problem‐solving therapy for survivors of pediatric brain tumor
Authors: Wade Shari L. , Narad Megan E. , Moscato Emily L. , LeBlond Elizabeth I. , King Jessica A. , Raj Stacey P. , Platt Amber , Thompson Aimee N. , Baum Katherine T. , Salloum Ralph
Published: November 2019

Background

Although pediatric brain tumor survivors are at high risk for a variety of psychosocial and neurocognitive late effects, there are few evidence‐based interventions to address their needs. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of an online problem‐solving intervention on improving the quality of life and executive dysfunction among adolescent and young adult brain tumor survivors.

Procedure

A Survivor's Journey was adapted from a similar intervention for survivors of traumatic brain injuries, and involved self‐guided web modules providing training in problem‐solving as a tool for coping with everyday challenges, as well as weekly teleconferences with a trained therapist. Survivors (n = 19) between the ages of 13 and 25, and their caregivers, completed standardized measures of their emotional and behavioral functioning, executive functioning, and quality of life before and after the 12‐ to 16‐week intervention.

Results

Participation in the intervention led to significant improvements in self‐reported overall (Mpre = 62.03, SDpre = 17.67, Mpost = 71.97, SDpost = 16.75; d = 0.58, P = 0.01) and physical quality of life (Mpre = 63.13, SDpre = 21.88, Mpost = 75.00, SDpost = 21.33; d = 0.55, P < 0.01) as well as parent‐reported emotional quality of life (Mpre = 65.00, SDpre = 28.72, Mpost = 76.15, SDpost = 23.47; d = 0.43, P = 0.03). Greater improvement was noted in those who were diagnosed before the age of seven and those with average or above average estimated IQs. Current age did not moderate outcomes.

Conclusions

Online problem‐solving therapy may be efficacious in improving pediatric brain tumor survivors’ quality of life; however, further research with a comparison group is needed. Online interventions such as Survivor's Journey may decrease barriers to evidence‐based psychosocial care for brain tumor survivors.
Assessment of explosibility and explosion severity of rice flour at different concentration and ignition time
Authors: Wan Sulaiman Wan Zaiton , Mohd Idris Mohd Fadzil , Gimbun Jolius , Sulaiman Siti Zubaidah
Published: November 2019

This article presents a dust explosion characteristics of commercial rice flour at different concentration and ignition time. The rice flour with a moisture content of 7.79% (undried) and a mean diameter of D50 = 28.77 μm was used in this work. The moisture in the rice flour was further reduced by oven drying to 2.47% (dried) and both samples were tested for comparison. Experiments were performed in a 20 L spherical explosion chamber to obtain the maximum explosion overpressure (Pmax), rate of pressure rise (dP/dT), minimum explosibility concentration (MEC), and deflagration index (Kst) of undried and dried commercial rice flour. The dust samples and air mixtures were ignited by two chemical ignitors at the ignition time (tv) of 60 and 100 ms. The propagation of pressure wave during the explosion process was measured by the piezoelectric pressure sensor. The Pmax for undried and dried rice flour at tv of 60 ms were found at 11.25 bar and 8.6 bar, respectively. The Pmax was obtained at the highest concentration of dust (1000 kg/m3). The highest pressure rise of undried sample was obtained at 81 bar/s whereas for dried sample the highest value was obtained at 98 bar/s. MEC of undried sample was found at 600 kg/m3 and the dried sample at 500 kg/m3. The Kst of dried rice flour at ignition time 60 ms was found to be the highest at 26.6 bar m/s. It was found that the severity of the dust explosion increases proportionally with the dust concentration. Rice flour with higher moisture content has a lower explosion severity, than that of dried sample. Findings from this work provide a useful safety information about the severity and explosibility of rice flour, for which unsafe handling and operation may be minimized.
Stimulus Responsive 3D Assembly for Spatially Resolved Bifunctional Sensors
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Deng Heng , Xie Yunchao , Zhang Chi , Su Jheng‐Wun , Lin Jian
Published: November 2019

3D electronic/optoelectronic devices have shown great potentials for various applications due to their unique properties inherited not only from functional materials, but also from 3D architectures. Although a variety of fabrication methods including mechanically guided assembly have been reported, the resulting 3D devices show no stimuli‐responsive functions or are not free standing, thereby limiting their applications. Herein, the stimulus responsive assembly of complex 3D structures driven by temperature‐responsive hydrogels is demonstrated for applications in 3D multifunctional sensors. The assembly driving force, compressive buckling, arises from the volume shrinkage of the responsive hydrogel substrates when they are heated above the lower critical solution temperature. Driven by the compressive buckling force, the 2D‐formed membrane materials, which are pre‐defined and selectively bonded to the substrates, are then assembled to 3D structures. They include “tent,” “tower,” “two‐floor pavilion,” “dome,” “basket,” and “nested‐cages” with delicate geometries. Moreover, the demonstrated 3D bifunctional sensors based on laser induced graphene show capability of spatially resolved tactile sensing and temperature sensing. These multifunctional 3D sensors would open new applications in soft robotics, bioelectronics, micro‐electromechanical systems, and others.
Native MicroRNA Targets Trigger Self‐Assembly of Nanozyme‐Patterned Hollowed Nanocuboids with Optimal Interparticle Gaps for Plasmonic‐Activated Cancer Detection
Authors: Li Junrong , Koo Kevin M. , Wang Yuling , Trau Matt
Published: November 2019

The modernized use of nucleic acid (NA) sequences to drive nanostructure self‐assembly has given rise to a new class of designed nanomaterials with controllable plasmonic functionalities for broad surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS)‐based bioanalysis applications. Herein, dual usage of microRNAs (miRNAs) as both valuable cancer biomarkers and direct self‐assembly triggers is identified and capitalized upon for custom‐designed plasmonic nanostructures. Through strict NA hybridization of miRNA targets, Au nanospheres selectively self‐assemble onto hollowed Au/Ag alloy nanocuboids with ideal interparticle distances (≈2.3 nm) for optimal SERS signaling. The intrinsic material properties of the self‐assembled nanostructures further elevate miRNA detection performance via nanozyme catalytic SERS signaling cascades. This enables fM‐level miR‐107 detection limit within a clinically‐relevant range without any molecular target amplification. The miRNA‐triggered nanostructure self‐assembly approach is further applied in clinical patient samples, and showcases the potential of miR‐107 as a non‐invasive prostate cancer diagnostic biomarker. The use of miRNA targets to drive nanostructure self‐assembly holds great promise as a practical tool for miRNA detection in disease applications.
Merging Single‐Atom‐Dispersed Iron and Graphitic Carbon Nitride to a Joint Electronic System for High‐Efficiency Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhang Wenyao , Peng Qiong , Shi Lingling , Yao Qiushi , Wang Xin , Yu Aiping , Chen Zhongwei , Fu Yongsheng
Published: November 2019

Scalable and sustainable solar hydrogen production via photocatalytic water splitting requires extremely active and stable light‐harvesting semiconductors to fulfill the stringent requirements of suitable energy band position and rapid interfacial charge transfer process. Motivated by this point, increasing attention has been given to the development of photocatalysts comprising intimately interfaced photoabsorbers and cocatalysts. Herein, a simple one‐step approach is reported to fabricate a high‐efficiency photocatalytic system, in which single‐site dispersed iron atoms are rationally integrated on the intrinsic structure of the porous crimped graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) polymer. A detailed analysis of the formation process shows that a stable complex is generated by spontaneously coordinating dicyandiamidine nitrate with iron ions in isopropanol, thus leading to a relatively complicated polycondensation reaction upon thermal treatment. The correlation of experimental and computational results confirms that optimized electronic structures of Fe@g‐C3N4 with an appropriate d‐band position and negatively shifting Fermi level can be achieved, which effectively gains the reducibility of electrons and creates more active sites for the photocatalytic reactions. As a result, the Fe@g‐C3N4 exhibits a highlighted intramolecular synergistic effect, performing greatly enhanced solar‐photon‐driven activities, including excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate (3390 µmol h−1 g−1, λ > 420 nm) and a reliable apparent quantum efficiency value of 6.89% at 420 nm.