bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Italian Multicenter Registry of Bare Metal Stent Use in Modern Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Era (AMARCORD): A multicenter observational study
Authors: Giannini Francesco , Pagnesi Matteo , Campo Gianluca , Donahue Michael , Ferri Luca A. , Briguori Carlo , Stefanini Giulio G. , Scardala Raffaele , Sardella Gennaro , De Rosa Salvatore , Figini Filippo , Monello Alberto , Pastormerlo Luigi E. , Testa Luca , Nicolino Annamaria , Ielasi Alfonso , Durante Alessandro , Leone Angelo , Tzanis Giorgios , Mangieri Antonio , Ciccarelli Giovanni , Briani Martina , Reimers Bernhard , Ceccacci Andrea , Indolfi Ciro , Sheiban Imad , Palmieri Cataldo , Bedogni Francesco , Tespili Maurizio , Latib Azeem , Gallo Francesco , Colombo Antonio
Published: March 2020

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the use of bare metal stent (BMS) implantation in current percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) era, focusing on indications for use and clinical outcomes.

Background

Limited data on BMS usage in current clinical practice are available.

Methods

All patients who underwent PCI with at least one BMS implantation in 18 Italian centers from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2017, were included in our registry. Rates of BMS use and reasons for BMS implantations were reported for the overall study period and for each year. Primary outcomes were mortality, bleeding (Bleeding Academic Research Consortium—BARC and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction—TIMI non‐CABG definitions), and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) defined as the composite of all‐cause and cardiac death, any myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization, or any stent thrombosis.

Results

Among 58,879 patients undergoing PCI in the study period, 2,117 (3.6%) patients (mean age 73 years, 69.7% males, 73.3% acute coronary syndrome) were treated with BMS implantation (2,353 treated lesions). The rate of BMS implantation progressively decreased from 10.1% (2013) to 0.3% (2017). Main reasons for BMS implantation were: ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) (23.1%), advanced age (24.4%), and physician's perception of high‐bleeding risk (34.0%). At a mean follow‐up of 2.2 ± 1.5 years, all‐cause and cardiac mortality were 25.6 and 12.7%, respectively; MACE rate was 35.3%, any bleeding rate was 13.0% (BARC 3–5 bleeding 6.3%, TIMI non‐CABG major bleeding 6.1%).

Conclusion

In a large, contemporary, real‐world, multicenter registry, BMS use progressively reduced over the last 5 years. Main reasons for BMS implantation were STEMI, advanced age, and physician's perception of high‐bleeding risk. High rates of mortality and MACE were observed in this real‐world high‐risk population.
Right ventricular assessment in patients undergoing transcatheter or surgical aortic valve replacement
Authors: Schueler Robert , Öztürk Can , Laser Jasmin Viktoria , Wirth Fabian , Werner Nikos , Welz Armin , Nickenig Georg , Sinning Jan‐Malte , Hammerstingl Christoph
Published: March 2020

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is an alternative treatment option to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) in selected high‐risk patients. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of right ventricular (RV) functional imaging to predict clinical response to TAVR and SAVR.

Methods

One hundred and ten patients with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis (AVS) undergoing successful TAVR and 32 controls undergoing SAVR were prospectively enrolled. Six months follow up (FU) included two‐dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with RV deformation imaging.

Results

Baseline TTE showed no significant differences between groups (TAVR and SAVR) in conventional left ventricular (LV) and RV functional parameters (LV ejection fraction [LV‐EF]: p = .21; tricuspidal annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE]: 1.8 ± 0.5 cm, 1.9 ± 0.4 cm, p = .21), and RV strain (right ventricular‐global longitudinal strain [RV‐GLS] −11.6 ± 5.2%, −11.5 ± 6.5%, p = .70). At FU LV function was unchanged in both groups (p > .05); RV function was significantly improved after TAVR (RV‐GLS: −11.6 ± 5.2%, −13.4 ± 6.1%, p = .005; TAPSE: 1.8 ± 0.5 cm, 1.9 ± 0.3 cm, p = .05), and worsened after SAVR (RV‐GLS: −11.5 ± 6.5%, −8.9 ± 5.2%, p = .04; TAPSE: 1.9 ± 0.4 cm, 1.5 ± 0.3 cm, p < .001). Functional New York Heart Association (NYHA) class remained unchanged in patients after SAVR (p = .21), and improved after TAVR (p < .001). Baseline RV function was linked with clinical response to TAVR (TAPSE, p < .0001; RV‐GLS, p = .04), and the development of RV‐GLS was associated with functional worsening after SAVR (p = .05).

Conclusion

Baseline RV function and changes of right heart mechanics are closely associated with functional improvements after AVR. SAVR, but not TAVR, seems to have detrimental effects on RV‐function.
Spontaneous closure of an extensive postdebridement perineal wound in a newly diagnosed diabetic patient presenting with necrotizing fasciitis
Authors: Muchuweti David , Muguti Edwin , Mungazi Simbarashe Gift
Published: March 2020

Diabetes mellitus may present for the first time with necrotizing fasciitis. Early treatment of septic shock and immediate surgical debridement reduces mortality. A diverting loop colostomy prevents soiling of extensive postdebridement wound. Local wound care together with good glycemic and infection control leads to spontaneous wound closure.
Increasing the Formation of Active Sites on Highly Crystalline Co Branched Nanoparticles for Improved Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalysis
Authors: Myekhlai Munkhshur , Benedetti Tania M. , Gloag Lucy , Gonçales Vinicius R. , Cheong Soshan , Chen Hsiang‐Sheng , Gooding J. Justin , Tilley Richard D.
Published: March 2020

The electrocatalysis of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the surface of oxidized metal electrocatalysts is highly dependent on the structure and composition of the surface oxide. Here, Au core‐ Co branched nanoparticles were synthesized using a cubic‐core hexagonal‐branch growth approach in a slow reductive solution synthesis, resulting in highly crystalline metallic hcp Co branches. Electrochemical surface oxidation of the Co branched nanoparticles resulted in formation of Co(OH)2 that enable the formation of a higher number of active sites under OER conditions compared to Co3O4. Differently from polycrystalline spherical Au−Co core‐shell nanoparticles, the oxidized structure on the Co branched nanoparticle surface is retained with electrochemical cycling, resulting in improved OER activity and stability.
Dehydrogenation of Primary Alkyl Azides to Nitriles Catalyzed by Pincer Iridium/Ruthenium Complexes
Authors: Gan Lan , Jia Xiangqing , Fang Huaquan , Liu Guixia , Huang Zheng
Published: March 2020

Pincer metal complexes exhibit superior catalytic activity in the dehydrogenation of plain alkanes, but find limited application in the dehydrogenation of functionalized organic molecules. Starting from easily accessible primary alkyl azides, here we report an efficient dehydrogenation of azides to nitriles using pincer iridium or ruthenium complexes as the catalysts. This method offers a route to cyanide‐free preparation of nitriles without carbon chain elongation and without the use of strong oxidants. Both benzyl and linear aliphatic azides can be dehydrogenated with tert‐butylethylene as the hydrogen acceptor to afford nitriles in moderate to high yields. Various functional groups can be tolerated, and the H−C−C−H bond dehydrogenation does not occur for linear alkyl azide substrates. Furthermore, the pincer Ir catalytic system was found to catalyze the direct azide dehydrogenation without the use of a sacrificial hydrogen acceptor.
Reduction of 4‐Nitrothiophenol on Ag/Au Bimetallic Alloy Surfaces Studied Using Bipolar Raman Spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Wang Buhua , Yu Songyan , Shannon Curtis
Published: March 2020

Herein, we describe an experimental approach for adapting the principles of Raman spectroelectrochemistry to electrodes controlled using a bipolar circuit. This method allows the simultaneous acquisition of spectroscopic data as a function of both the electrode potential and the chemical composition of a bimetallic alloy and can be generalized to other system variables. The electrochemical reduction of 4‐nitrothiophenol (4‐NTP) was carried out on bimetallic Ag/Au alloy gradients and monitored in situ using a confocal Raman microscope with 785 nm excitation. Continuous Ag/Au alloy gradients, in which the alloy composition varied from approximately 0.5 to 1.0 mole fraction Ag, were prepared by using bipolar electrodeposition and then modified with a monolayer of 4‐NTP using self‐assembly. 4‐NTP monolayers on Au/Ag alloys were placed in a bipolar electrochemical cell and characterized as a function of applied potential and chemical composition by using surface‐enhanced Raman scattering. The E1/2 for NTP reduction was observed to be a strong function of the alloy composition, increasing by over 100 mV as the mole fraction of Ag varied from 0.5 to 1.0. In addition, spectroscopic evidence for the formation of the partially reduced intermediate, 4,4’‐dimercaptoazobenzene (DMAB) at intermediate applied potentials, was also found. Bipolar Raman spectroelectrochemistry (BRSE) is a powerful tool for acquiring in situ multidimensional Raman spectroelectrochemical data.
Silicon Quantum Dots Induce Uniform Lithium Plating in a Sandwiched Metal Anode
Authors: Zhao Yue , Jin Xin , Lu Yezi , Pu Jun , Shen Zihan , Zhong Chenglin , Zhang Shuo , Liu Jinyun , Zhang Huigang
Published: March 2020

Lithium (Li) metal anodes are demanded by high‐energy Li batteries because Li has the highest capacity and low electrode potential. However, Li metal anodes usually show poor cyclability and unsafe deposition at anode/separator interfaces, which may increase the risk of short circuits. In this work, we fabricate a sandwiched structure of reduced graphene oxides (rGO) with silicon (Si) quantum dots (QDs) as the inducing agents between rGO layers. Because of the lithiophilicity of Si QDs, Li growth is favorably guided away from the unsafe anode/separator interface towards the interlayer positions, significantly improving the cyclability and safety of the Si‐QDs‐sandwiched rGO anode. The uniformly‐distributed Si QDs and layered electrode structure can regulate Li plating/stripping to avoid the superficial Li growth and reduce the accumulation of solid electrolyte interphase. The growth‐guiding strategy using the sandwiched structure provides a new approach to fabricating high energy Li‐based battery anodes.
Enzymatic Bioelectrocatalysis for Enzymology Applications
Authors: Kummer Matthew J. , Minteer Shelley D.
Published: March 2020

Enzymatic biosensors are commonly used to evaluate the concentration of individual analytes in samples (e. g., glucose in blood, lactate in sweat, etc.), where the working electrode utilizes an enzyme (a “bioelectrode”) as the chemically selective agent for electrochemical analyses. However, those same enzymatic bioelectrodes can be used for the analytical characterization of enzymes as a new biophysical characterization tool for enzymologists. This Minireview will detail recent work focused on utilizing enzymatic bioelectrocataysis for enzymology applications. Specifically, it will talk about the use of enzymatic bioelectrodes for studying kinetics, inhibition, transport, and thermodynamics. It will also compare and contrast electrochemical techniques with spectrophotometric techniques for enzymology.
Discovery, Synthesis and Evaluation of a Ketol‐Acid Reductoisomerase Inhibitor
Authors: Bayaraa Tenuun , Kurz Julia L. , Patel Khushboo M. , Hussein Waleed M. , Bilyj Jessica K. , West Nicholas P. , Schenk Gerhard , McGeary Ross P. , Guddat Luke W.
Published: March 2020

Ketol‐acid reductoisomerase (KARI), the second enzyme in the branched‐chain amino acid biosynthesis pathway, is a potential drug target for bacterial infections including Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Here, we have screened the Medicines for Malaria Venture Pathogen Box against purified M. tuberculosis (Mt) KARI and identified two compounds that have Ki values below 200 nm. In Mt cell susceptibility assays one of these compounds exhibited an IC50 value of 0.8 μm. Co‐crystallization of this compound, 3‐((methylsulfonyl)methyl)‐2H‐benzo[b][1,4]oxazin‐2‐one (MMV553002), in complex with Staphylococcus aureus KARI, which has 56 % identity with Mt KARI, NADPH and Mg2+ yielded a structure to 1.72 Å resolution. However, only a hydrolyzed product of the inhibitor (i.e. 3‐(methylsulfonyl)‐2‐oxopropanic acid, missing the 2‐aminophenol attachment) is observed in the active site. Surprisingly, Mt cell susceptibility assays showed that the 2‐aminophenol product is largely responsible for the anti‐TB activity of the parent compound. Thus, 3‐(methylsulfonyl)‐2‐oxopropanic acid was identified as a potent KARI inhibitor that could be further explored as a potential biocidal agent and we have shown 2‐aminophenol, as an anti‐TB drug lead, especially given it has low toxicity against human cells. The study highlights that careful analysis of broad screening assays is required to correctly interpret cell‐based activity data.
MetaBridge: An Integrative Multi‐Omics Tool for Metabolite‐Enzyme Mapping
Authors: Blimkie Travis , Lee Amy Huei‐Yi , Hancock Robert E.W.
Published: March 2020

MetaBridge is a web‐based tool designed to facilitate the integration of metabolomics with other “omics” data types such as transcriptomics and proteomics. It uses data from the MetaCyc metabolic pathway database and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) to map metabolite compounds to directly interacting upstream or downstream enzymes in enzymatic reactions and metabolic pathways. The resulting list of enzymes can then be integrated with transcriptomics or proteomics data via protein‐protein interaction networks to perform integrative multi‐omics analyses. MetaBridge was developed to be intuitive and easy to use, requiring little to no prior computational experience. The protocols described here detail all steps involved in the use of MetaBridge, from preparing input data and performing metabolite mapping to utilizing the results to build a protein‐protein interaction network. © 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Mapping metabolite data using MetaCyc identifiers

Basic Protocol 2: Mapping metabolite data using KEGG identifiers

Support Protocol 1: Converting compound names to HMDB IDs

Support Protocol 2: Submitting mapped genes produced by MetaBridge for protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network construction
Treatment of Fabry's Disease With Migalastat: Outcome From a Prospective Observational Multicenter Study (FAMOUS)
Authors: Lenders Malte , Nordbeck Peter , Kurschat Christine , Karabul Nesrin , Kaufeld Jessica , Hennermann Julia B. , Patten Monica , Cybulla Markus , Müntze Jonas , Üçeyler Nurcan , Liu Dan , Das Anibh M. , Sommer Claudia , Pogoda Christian , Reiermann Stefanie , Duning Thomas , Gaedeke Jens , Stumpfe Katharina , Blaschke Daniela , Brand Stefan‐Martin , Mann W. Alexander , Kampmann Christoph , Muschol Nicole , Canaan‐Kühl Sima , Brand Eva
Published: March 2020

Fabry's disease (FD) is an X‐linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by the deficient activity of the lysosomal enzyme α‐galactosidase A (α‐Gal A) leading to intracellular accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). Patients with amenable mutations can be treated with migalastat, a recently approved oral pharmacologic chaperone to increase endogenous α‐Gal A activity. We assessed safety along with cardiovascular, renal, and patient‐reported outcomes and disease biomarkers in a prospective observational multicenter study after 12 months of migalastat treatment under “real‐world” conditions. Fifty‐nine (28 females) patients (34 (57.6%) pretreated with enzyme replacement therapy) with amenable mutations were recruited. Migalastat was generally safe and well tolerated. Females and males presented with a reduction of left ventricular mass index (primary end point) (−7.2 and −13.7 g/m2, P = 0.0050 and P = 0.0061). FD‐specific manifestations and symptoms remained stable (all P > 0.05). Both sexes presented with a reduction of estimated glomerular filtration rate (secondary end point) (−6.9 and −5.0 mL/minute/1.73 m2; P = 0.0020 and P = 0.0004, respectively), which was most prominent in patients with low blood pressure (P = 0.0271). α‐Gal A activity increased in male patients by 15% from 29% to 44% of the normal wild‐type activity (P = 0.0106) and plasma lyso‐Gb3 levels were stable in females and males (P = 0.3490 and P = 0.2009). Reevaluation of mutations with poor biochemical response revealed no marked activity increase in a zero activity background. We conclude that therapy with migalastat was generally safe and resulted in an amelioration of left ventricular mass. In terms of impaired renal function, blood pressure control seems to be an unattended important goal.
Load balancing by diversified quality factors‐based handoff (DQFH) in wireless cellular networks
Authors: Riyazuddien Shaik , Venkata Rao Dhulipalla , Ramarakula Madhu
Published: March 2020

The long‐term evolution (LTE) and long‐term evolution advance (LTE‐A) communication networks are the buzz of cellular networks. Due to the phenomenal count of users who hangs on cellular networks in regard to the concept of information and communications technology (ICT), the over‐sized demand of any network related to ICT experiences the crux of transmission load, which is critical constraint of the cellular networks. Though the contemporary research evincing the benchmark strategies to deal the crux of load on cellular networks, most of these are adapting handoff schemes to optimize the communication through effective load balancing under one or two standard quality metrics. Hence, the contemporary models have critical droppage in performance under the context of multiple quality objectives. In regard to deprive the constraints of the contemporary models, a handoff mechanism to optimize the load balancing in cellular networks under diversified contextual quality objectives has been defined in this manuscript. The method that is portrayed is a search technique that intends to select an optimal target node. The experimental study that was carried has evinced the significance the proposal that scaled against the contemporary methods having similar objective.
Medical comorbidities and endocrine dysfunction in low‐weight females with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder compared to anorexia nervosa and healthy controls
Authors: Aulinas Anna , Marengi Dean A. , Galbiati Francesca , Asanza Elisa , Slattery Meghan , Mancuso Christopher J. , Wons Olivia , Micali Nadia , Bern Elana , Eddy Kamryn T. , Thomas Jennifer J. , Misra Madhusmita , Lawson Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To improve our understanding of medical complications and endocrine alterations in patients with low‐weight avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) and how they may differ from those in anorexia nervosa (AN) and healthy controls (HC).

Method

We performed an exploratory cross‐sectional study comparing low‐weight females with ARFID (n = 20) with females with AN (n = 42) and HC (n = 49) with no history of an eating disorder.

Results

We found substantial overlap in medical comorbidities and endocrine features in ARFID and AN, but with earlier onset of aberrant eating behaviors in ARFID. We also observed distinct medical and endocrine alterations in ARFID compared to AN, such as a greater prevalence of asthma, a lower number of menses missed in the preceding 9 months, higher total T3 levels, and lower total T4 : total T3 ratio; these differences persisted after adjusting for age and might reflect differences in pathophysiology, acuity of weight fluctuations, and/or nutritional composition of food consumed.

Conclusion

These results highlight the need for prompt diagnosis and intensive therapeutic intervention from disease onset in ARFID.
Psychosocial factors, mental health symptoms, and disordered eating during pregnancy
Authors: Baskin Rachel , Meyer Denny , Galligan Roslyn
Published: March 2020

Objective

The impact of disordered eating extends beyond women with a diagnosed eating disorder. Scarce research to date has investigated disordered eating in a general perinatal population, including the complex interplay between psychosocial factors, mental health symptoms, and disordered eating at numerous pregnancy periods. Specifically, maternal attitudes and relationship satisfaction are psychosocial factors that have been identified as a gap in the literature.

Method

Pregnant women completed an online questionnaire between 18 and 24 weeks gestation (T1, n = 258) and again between 30 and 32 weeks gestation (T2, n = 159). Structural equation modeling was used to test an interrelated model of psychosocial factors—attitudes to pregnancy, attitudes to motherhood, and relationship satisfaction—and disordered eating, mediated by either depressive or anxiety symptoms. Invariance testing examined whether model weights differed between primiparous and multiparous women at each time point.

Results

While at T1 and T2, there were significant direct associations between psychosocial factors and disordered eating, only at T2 were the associations between psychosocial factors and disordered eating mediated by depressive and anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, at T2, multiparous women were at greater risk of an association between maladaptive attitudes to pregnancy and motherhood, depressive symptoms, and disordered eating.

Discussion

The present study highlights the need to investigate the relationships between psychosocial factors and disordered eating, while accounting for the unique antenatal needs of women during different pregnancy periods and across differing parity. The mediating effect of depressive and anxiety symptoms have implications for future research and clinical care.
Organic matter reduces the amount of detectable environmental DNA in freshwater
Authors: van Bochove Kees , Bakker Freek T. , Beentjes Kevin K. , Hemerik Lia , Vos Rutger A. , Gravendeel Barbara
Published: March 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is used for monitoring the occurrence of freshwater organisms. Various studies show a relation between the amount of eDNA detected and target organism abundance, thus providing a potential proxy for reconstructing population densities. However, environmental factors such as water temperature and microbial activity are known to affect the amount of eDNA present as well. In this study, we use controlled aquarium experiments using Gammarus pulex L. (Amphipoda) to investigate the relationship between the amount of detectable eDNA through time, pH, and levels of organic material. We found eDNA to degrade faster when organic material was added to the aquarium water, but that pH had no significant effect. We infer that eDNA contained inside cells and mitochondria is extra resilient against degradation, though this may not reflect actual presence of target species. These results indicate that, although estimation of population density might be possible using eDNA, measured eDNA concentration could, in the future, be corrected for local environmental conditions in order to ensure accurate comparisons.
Divergent Synthesis of Amino‐Substituted Indolizidine Alkaloids, Decahydropyrazino[2,1,6‐cd]pyrrolizine Triols, and (–)‐Pochonicine Stereoisomers
Authors: Salunke Rahul Vilas , Ramesh Namakkal G.
Published: March 2020

A reagent‐directed divergent synthesis of three skeletally distinct compounds, namely, amino‐substituted indolizidine alkaloids, decahydropyrazino[2,1,6‐cd]‐pyrrolizine triols and (–)‐pochonicine stereoisomers have been accomplished from a single precursor. Tri‐O‐benzyl‐d‐glucal was converted into a diastereomeric mixture of homoallylic alcohols through a seven‐step sequence developed earlier in our lab. Intramolecular iodo‐amination of the homoallylic alcohols proceeded through a 5‐exo‐tet ring opening of initially formed iodonium ion to give the iodo‐substituted pyrrolizidine {[5,5‐]‐fused} derivatives. Upon exposure to AgOAc, these iodo‐pyrrolizidines underwent a ring enlargement under the reaction condition and delivered polyhydroxylated indolizidine {[5,6]‐fused} derivatives as the main products. On the other hand, when the iodo‐pyrrolizidines were treated with NaH, a smooth intramolecular substitution reaction took place resulting in the formation of novel decahydropyrazino[2,1,6‐cd]pyrrolizine triols in good yields. Diversely, epoxidation of the homoallyic alcohols followed by intramolecular ring opening and subsequent synthetic transformations delivered stereoisomers of (–)‐pochonicine. The structure and stereochemistry of the final compounds were established through detailed 2D‐NMR analysis.
Multielectron Redox Catalysis with Efficient Tyrosinase Activity Based on a Visible‐Light Controlled Artificial Photoenzyme
Authors: Reichl Eva , Ertl Martin , Knör Günther
Published: March 2020

A stepwise non‐enzymatic conversion of the natural amino acid L‐tyrosine into physiologically relevant intermediates L‐DOPA, dopaquinone and dopachrome has been demonstrated in aqueous solution under ambient conditions. The photocatalytic redox process applied involves controlled activation of molecular oxygen forming water and hydrogen peroxide as further reaction products. Substrate conversion can be switched on and off conveniently by regulating the degree of visible‐light or sunlight exposure of an immobilized multielectron transfer sensitizer, which is very easy to apply and can be separated again from the supernatant reaction medium. Quantitative analysis of the six‐electron redox conversion of L‐tyrosine catalyzed by the artificial oxidoreductase enzyme system reveals a remarkable degree of abiotic phenolase activity which nearly approaches the benchmark value of the native metalloenzyme tyrosinase under substrate saturation conditions.
Nurse teachers’ knowledge about epilepsy and communication issues between schools and medical institutions: A nationwide questionnaire survey in Japan
Authors: Terada Kiyohito , Inoue Yushi , Nishida Takuji , Mishiro Daisuke , Yamano Mitsuhiko , Aoyagi Tomoo , Tadokoro Yuji
Published: March 2020

Objective

The importance of school teachers’ knowledge of and attitudes toward epilepsy and the communication between educational and medical systems is widely appreciated, but exploration of these factors in Japan has been extremely limited. In order to identify issues in support systems for students with epilepsy and bridge the gaps in communication between schools and medical institutions in Japan, we performed a nationwide questionnaire survey of nurse teachers (nurses in charge of health education/care at schools).

Methods

We mailed a questionnaire to 900 nurse teachers all over Japan. It included six items on general epilepsy knowledge and 15 items on information about each student with epilepsy in their schools. We used a modified grounded theory approach (M‐GTA) to analyze open‐ended questions.

Results

We received responses from 640 (71.1%) nurse teachers. In their schools, there were 237 253 students, of whom 1565 had epilepsy. Most nurse teachers (84.7%) understood that epilepsy is a neurological disease. When performing first aid for a seizure, they would observe the seizure calmly (85.9%) and/or secure the airway (75.3%). There were 1398 responses about individual students with epilepsy (89.3%). Nurse teachers knew the seizure type in 70.0% of these students, seizure frequency in 76.8%, triggers in 38.9%, and appropriate first aid for 79.0%. Some nurse teachers (30.2%) obtained information on students with epilepsy from medical institutions. They knew more about their students’ seizures than those without medical information. Existing forms for communicating information on students with epilepsy between schools and physicians were not actively utilized. Responses to open questions converged on safety at school.

Significance

Japanese nurse teachers understand epilepsy relatively well, but do not fully grasp the condition of each student with epilepsy. Better information flow from medical institutions is needed. Active communication is necessary to support the safety of students with epilepsy at school.
Formation mechanism of continuous gas leakage paths in cement sheath during hydraulic fracturing
Authors: Lian Wei , Li Jun , Tao Qian , Du Jinlong , Wang Lei , Xi Yan
Published: March 2020

Continuous gas leakage paths of cement sheath during hydraulic fracturing were investigated in this study. The finite‐element models of a casing–cement‐sheath–formation assembly for the whole wellbore were established, the integrity of the cement sheath of the whole wellbore during single‐stage fracturing was analyzed firstly, and the factors affecting the integrity were examined. Furthermore, a cyclic compression test was conducted. Then, test results for the accumulative plastic strain of the cement sheath under the intermediate casing shoe during multistage fracturing were analyzed. Finally, the mechanism of dilatancy of cement stone in cyclic compression tests was analyzed. The results show that the radial and tangential stresses of the cement sheath increase and decrease, respectively, with depth. The cement sheath above the intermediate casing shoe had a risk of tensile failure, which could result in tangential tensile cracks. The cement sheath below the intermediate casing shoes had cumulative plastic strain, resulting in a microannulus. Reducing Young's modulus, increasing the Poisson ratio of the cement sheath, and reducing the pump pressure were beneficial to relieve the stress state. When the cyclic compressive stress exceeded the dilatation yield stress, the permeability increased with cycle numbers, and the increase in permeability provided another leakage path for gas migration.
Determination of water application rates required for communities to suppress post‐flashover informal settlement fires based on numerical modelling and experimental tests
Authors: Löffel Stefan A. , Walls Richard S.
Published: March 2020

Fires originating in informal settlements (ie, slums, ghettos, shantytowns, squatter camps) spread rapidly, due to the presence of densely packed, highly combustible dwellings, thereby making these communities inherently susceptible to large conflagrations. By the time, the fire brigades are notified and can get to the scene of the fire, the resulting conflagrations can be large. Thus, it is necessary to equip communities with the ability to combat smaller fires, although it is acknowledged that this is not ideal. Previous full‐scale testing and firefighter experience have shown that water application through ‘bucket brigades’ can be very effective at suppressing fires. In this article, a model is developed for approximately quantifying the amount of water, and discharge rate, that is, required for communities to suppress fires of various sizes using bucket brigades. This is done to answer the question: based on the water supply infrastructure in an area could a community put out post‐flashover fires of certain sizes? If this is not feasible, it would highlight the importance of communities having readily available pre‐filled water buckets at homes. The model presented is developed in fire dynamics simulator and is calibrated based on full‐scale experiments utilizing the bucket brigade technique. It is shown that standpipe discharge rates of 23 to 40 lpm are suitable for fire sizes of around 3.85 MW, based on a dwelling size of 2.4 x 3.6 x 2.4 m. This means that in communities with a single stand‐pipe (water supply point) with flow rates less than 23 lpm, that fires greater than 3.85 MW (as produced by a home of 2.4 x 3.6 m with a timber fuel load of 25 kg/m2) cannot be suppressed in time without resulting in substantial fire spread to adjacent dwellings.
Temperature assessment of steel members subjected to fire generated by alternative fuel vehicles: Experimental tests
Authors: Tramoni Jean‐Baptiste , Thauvoye Christophe , Hanus François , Poutrain Bruno , Suzanne Mathieu , Thiry Aurélien
Published: March 2020

This article aims at assessing the thermal action received by an unprotected steel structure during the combustion of alternative fuel vehicles. Five tests were realised in the underground of an airport hangar. To obtain a confinement effect and increase the probability of observing a thermal runaway of the traction battery, a second car was parked next to the alternative fuel vehicle. Five motorisations were tested: diesel fuel, H2 fuel cell, natural gas, electric, and liquefied petroleum gas. The diesel fuel car test served as reference case. The cars were located under a steel structure, representative of a car park, next to a wall. The wall served here to increase the confinement effect. Thirty‐nine sections of the structure were instrumented for a total of 200 thermocouples. An extensive analysis including fire behaviour for each test and comparisons between the tests is presented here.
Flame‐retardant properties and synergistic effect of ammonium polyphosphate/aluminum hydroxide/mica/silicone rubber composites
Authors: Hu Sheng , Tan Zhi‐Wei , Chen Fei , Li Jun‐Guo , Shen Qiang , Huang Zhi‐Xiong , Zhang Lian‐Meng
Published: March 2020

The flammability behaviors of ammonium polyphosphate/aluminum hydroxide/mica/silicone rubber (APP/Al[OH]3/mica/SiR) ceramifying composites containing APP, Al[OH]3, and mica are investigated by cone calorimeter test. The thermal degradation and the synergistic effect of APP/Al(OH)3/mica/SiR composites are investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. APP/Al(OH)3/mica/SiR composites with 25 wt% of APP, 20 wt% of Al(OH)3, 25 wt% of mica, and 30 wt% SiR presents a much lower total heat release, the value of peak heat release rate (PHRR), the maximum average heat release rate, the longest time to ignition, and time to the PHRR (tPHRR), compared with the flame‐retardant properties from composites with filler of APP and mica or APP and Al(OH)3 alone. The results indicate that there is an excellent synergism in APP, Al(OH)3, and mica, which endows APP/Al(OH)3/mica/SiR composites with both good flame retardancy and fire prevention. The study on the synergism effect between fire prevention and flame retardancy of APP/Al(OH)3/mica/SiR composites indicates that compounds containing P‐O‐Al are formed due to the reaction between APP and Al(OH)3 during combustion in the early stage and a coherent, dense, and sealed structure is formed due to the reaction in mica, phosphates, and the thermal decomposition products of SiR during combustion in the later stage.
Subcortical shape alterations in major depressive disorder: Findings from the ENIGMA major depressive disorder working group
Authors: Ho Tiffany C. , Gutman Boris , Pozzi Elena , Grabe Hans J. , Hosten Norbert , Wittfeld Katharina , Völzke Henry , Baune Bernhard , Dannlowski Udo , Förster Katharina , Grotegerd Dominik , Redlich Ronny , Jansen Andreas , Kircher Tilo , Krug Axel , Meinert Susanne , Nenadic Igor , Opel Nils , Dinga Richard , Veltman Dick J. , Schnell Knut , Veer Ilya , Walter Henrik , Gotlib Ian H. , Sacchet Matthew D. , Aleman André , Groenewold Nynke A. , Stein Dan J. , Li Meng , Walter Martin , Ching Christopher R. K. , Jahanshad Neda , Ragothaman Anjanibhargavi , Isaev Dmitry , Zavaliangos‐Petropulu Artemis , Thompson Paul M. , Sämann Philipp G. , Schmaal Lianne
Published: March 2020

Alterations in regional subcortical brain volumes have been investigated as part of the efforts of an international consortium, ENIGMA, to identify reliable neural correlates of major depressive disorder (MDD). Given that subcortical structures are comprised of distinct subfields, we sought to build significantly from prior work by precisely mapping localized MDD‐related differences in subcortical regions using shape analysis. In this meta‐analysis of subcortical shape from the ENIGMA‐MDD working group, we compared 1,781 patients with MDD and 2,953 healthy controls (CTL) on individual measures of shape metrics (thickness and surface area) on the surface of seven bilateral subcortical structures: nucleus accumbens, amygdala, caudate, hippocampus, pallidum, putamen, and thalamus. Harmonized data processing and statistical analyses were conducted locally at each site, and findings were aggregated by meta‐analysis. Relative to CTL, patients with adolescent‐onset MDD (≤ 21 years) had lower thickness and surface area of the subiculum, cornu ammonis (CA) 1 of the hippocampus and basolateral amygdala (Cohen's d = −0.164 to −0.180). Relative to first‐episode MDD, recurrent MDD patients had lower thickness and surface area in the CA1 of the hippocampus and the basolateral amygdala (Cohen's d = −0.173 to −0.184). Our results suggest that previously reported MDD‐associated volumetric differences may be localized to specific subfields of these structures that have been shown to be sensitive to the effects of stress, with important implications for mapping treatments to patients based on specific neural targets and key clinical features.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy for medically unfit patients with cancers to the head and neck
Authors: Al‐Assaf Hossam , Erler Darby , Karam Irene , Lee Justin W. , Higgins Kevin , Enepekides Danny , Zhang Liying , Eskander Antoine , Poon Ian
Published: March 2020

Background

A single institutional experience of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to medically unfit patients with unresectable head and neck cancers (HNCs).

Methods

A retrospective review of HNC patients undergoing SBRT was undertaken from 2011 to 2016 for fractionation ranges between 35 and 50 Gy in 4 to 6 fractions.

Results

One hundred and fourteen patients with 117 SBRT courses were included with mean follow‐up of 10.5 months. The cohort consisted of previously untreated primary HNC (n = 48), recurrent never irradiated HNC (n = 19), oligometastatic (n = 17) non‐HNC primaries and previously irradiated HNC (n = 33). Local control (LC) at 12 months and median progression free survival was 85.8%, 78.2%, 85%, 78.9% (P = .86) and 23.7, 14.8, 10.5 and 7.8 months (P = .04) respectively. Only one patient had an acute grade 4 toxicity, two patients had grade 4 late toxicities.

Conclusions

HNC SBRT is an effective treatment for frail patients where longer LC is relevant but are unable to tolerate protracted radiation schedules.
Total thyroidectomy: Safe and curative treatment option for hyperthyroidism
Authors: Frank Ethan D. , Park Joshua S. , Watson WayAnne , Chong Esther , Yang Sara , Simental Alfred A.
Published: March 2020

Background

While use of total thyroidectomy has increased in management of hyperthyroidism, concerns exist about increased surgical complication rates; most notably, hematoma, recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury, and hypocalcemia.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 454 patients undergoing total thyroidectomy between 2003 and 2015. All patients had surgery for hyperthyroidism, benign euthyroid disease, or thyroid malignancy.

Results

Total thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism was not associated with an increased risk for any postoperative complication. Transient hypocalcemia, temporary dysphonia, and postoperative hematoma rates were not significantly different for patients with hyperthyroid (n = 91), euthyroid benign (n = 237), and malignant (n = 126) disease. Permanent hypocalcemia and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury were not noted in any hyperthyroid patients. Complication rates were similar for hyperthyroid patients with Graves' disease vs toxic multinodular goiter.

Conclusion

This study affirms safety and efficacy of total thyroidectomy as standard treatment for hyperthyroidism.
Titanium particles induce apoptosis by promoting autophagy in macrophages via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Xian Guoyan , Chen Weishen , Gu Minghui , Ye Yongyu , Yang Guangpu , Lai Weiming , Xiao Yinbo , Zhao Xiaoyi , Zheng Linli , Pan Baiqi , Kang Yunze , Zhang Ziji , Sheng Puyi
Published: March 2020

Chronic inflammation and infection in the tissue surrounding implants after total joint replacement is closely associated with the innate immune response to surgical implants. Wear particles are known to increase apoptosis and impair the innate immunity in macrophages, which can cause immunosuppression around the implants. Excessive autophagy can induce apoptosis. However, the link between autophagy and apoptosis in macrophages during chronic inflammation and infection remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the autophagy and apoptosis induced by titanium particles in RAW264.7 macrophages, and in the interface membrane of patients with late‐onset periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). We found that titanium particles stimulated autophagy and apoptosis in macrophages. Inhibition of autophagy significantly reduced titanium particle‐induced apoptosis in macrophages, which may be related to the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The secretion of inflammatory factors, such as IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, decreased after inhibition of autophagy in titanium particle‐stimulated macrophages, which may be caused by immune dysfunction due to titanium particle‐induced autophagy and apoptosis in macrophages. Furthermore, our in vivo mouse calvarial model also showed that autophagy inhibitors lowered the rate of cell apoptosis. Our findings indicate that wear particle‐induced apoptosis may be caused by enhanced autophagy in macrophages, which could potentially impair the local innate immunity in periprosthetic tissues and could be a risk factor for PJI. Based on these results, autophagy modulators may act as a new therapeutic option for PJI.
A predictive value of the dynamic changes of the P‐wave terminal force in lead V1 in the long‐term prognosis of patients with non–ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Lin Huizhong , Lin Tao , Hu Tingying , Chen Lianglong
Published: March 2020

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of dynamic changes of P‐wave terminal force in lead V1 (PtfV1) at electrocardiogram (ECG) in patients with non–ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE‐ACS) during the long‐term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) of patients.

Methods

According to the PtfV1 value, the patients were divided into four groups: PtfV1 (−)/PtfV1 (−), PtfV1 (−)/PtfV1 (+), PtfV1 (+)/PtfV1 (−), and PtfV1 (+)/PtfV1 (+).

Results

The highest incidence of MACEs was the PtfV1(−)/(+) group with 24 patients (24.7%). The lowest incidence was the PtfV1(−)/(−) group with 28 patients (4.9%). Compared with the PtfV1(−)/(−) group, the risk for the occurrence of MACEs in the PtfV1(−)/(+)group was significantly increased (24.7% vs 4.9%, P = .000). Similarly, the risk in the PtfV1(+)/(+) group was also increased (10.1% vs 4.9%, P = .000).

Conclusion

The persistence of PtfV1 (+) and conversion of PtfV1/(−) to PtfV1/(+) at discharge significantly increased the incidence of MACEs.
Precipitated sdLDL: An easy method to estimate LDL particle size
Authors: Fernández‐Cidón Bárbara , Candás‐Estébanez Beatriz , Ribalta Josep , Rock Edmond , Guardiola‐Guionnet Montserrat , Amigó Núria , Padró‐Miquel Ariadna , Alía‐Ramos Pedro , Pintó‐Sala Xavier
Published: March 2020

Background

LDL‐C lowering is the main measure in cardiovascular disease prevention but a residual risk of ischemic events still remains. Alterations of lipoproteins, specially, increase in small dense LDL (sdLDL) particles are related to this risk.

Objective

To investigate the potential use of sdLDL cholesterol concentration (sdLDL‐C) isolated by an easy precipitation method and to assess the impact of a set of clinical and biochemical variables determined by NMR on sdLDL concentration.

Methods

sdLDL‐C and NMR lipid profile were performed in 85 men samples. Association among them was evaluated using Pearson coefficients (rxy). A multivariate regression was performed to identify the influence of NMR variables on sdLDL‐C.

Results

A strong association between sdLDL‐C and LDLLDL‐P (rxy = 0.687) and with LDL‐Z (rxy = −0.603) was found. The multivariate regression explained a 56.8% in sdLDL‐C variation (P = 8.77.10‐12). BMI, ApoB, triglycerides, FFA, and LDL‐Z showed a significant contribution. The most important ones were ApoB and LDL‐Z; a 1nm increase (LDL‐Z) leads to decrease 126 nmol/L in sdLDL‐C.

Conclusion

The association between sdLDL‐C, LDL‐Z, and LDL‐P is clear. From a large number of variables, especially LDL‐Z and apoB influence on sdLDL‐C. Results show that the smaller the LDL size, the higher their cholesterol concentration. Therefore, sdLDL‐C determination by using this easy method would be useful to risk stratification and to uncover cardiovascular residual risk.
Effect of chemically defined growth medium components on characteristics of bacterial inclusion bodies
Authors: Malani Himanshu , Kumar Deepak , Rathore Anurag S
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Inactive aggregated protein deposits formed during fermentation of recombinant bacteria – inclusion bodies (IBs) – continue to be a significant source of active proteins. Understanding how the microenvironment, in particular growth medium, affects the quality and quantity of the IBs would be desirable for optimal production of proteins. In this study, we explore the effect of various chemically defined media components on IBs using a variety of analytical techniques. Expression of a biotherapeutic, ranibizumab, has been chosen as a case study.

RESULTS

A repertoire of nutrients, including but not limited to carbon and nitrogen source, vitamins, cofactors, buffering agents and minerals, were examined. Sucrose, biotin, pantothenate, glutathione, K2HPO4, K2SO4, cyanocobalamin and CaSO4 were shortlisted based on experimentation. A design of experiments (DOE) study was performed to identify optimal concentrations of and interactions between these nutrients. Higher concentrations of sucrose, biotin and pantothenate, and lower concentrations of cyanocobalamin, CaSO4 and glutathione, resulted in larger IBs and greater product expression. Further, K2HPO4 and K2SO4 concentrations did not seem to have a meaningful impact on product formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Medium composition affects size and quality of IBs. The size of IBs exhibits a positive correlation with the quantity of product expressed, as well as the purity of the product, but does not correlate with the total amount of host cell proteins produced. IB size could be used as a key process attribute during bioreactor optimization, and the otherwise difficult task of measuring product concentration in the fermentation broth could be avoided. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrasound‐assisted modification of Al2O3@TiO2‐Ce core‐shell structure adsorbent for simultaneous desulfurization and denitrification
Authors: Yi Honghong , Yang Kun , Tang Xiaolong , Zhao Shunzheng , Gao Fengyu , Xie Xizhou , Huang Yonghai , Shi Yiran , Zhang Runcao
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

In order to improve the desulfurization and denitrification performance of Al2O3@TiO2‐Ce adsorbent, ultrasound‐assisted surface modification using different pore‐forming agents (CTAB (Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide), NH4NO3, and Urea) was introduced into the preparation process of Al2O3@TiO2‐Ce core‐shell structure adsorbent.

RESULTS

Among the adsorbent modified by various pore‐forming agent, CTAB modified Al2O3@TiO2‐Ce adsorbent showed the best denitrification efficiency, and the ultrasound‐assisted modification of CTAB had a positive effect on the removal efficiency of SO2 and NOx. The adsorption performance increased with the increase of addition amount of CTAB in the range of 5% to 10% but decreased with the increase of CTAB addition amount in the range of 10% to 20%. Petal‐like wrinkles appeared on the surface of CTAB modified adsorbent, and the distribution of the pores on the surface was dispersed uniformly by ultrasound.

CONCLUSION

The petal‐like wrinkle could effectively increase the specific surface area and pore volume of the adsorbent, and pore size distribution was more evenly, which was considered to be the key to improve the adsorption performance. The SO2 and NOx adsorption followed the pseudo‐first order rate expression, and the adsorption process was limited by both external diffusion and intraparticle diffusion. This work provides an experimental and theoretical basis for the surface modification of simultaneous desulfurization and denitrification adsorbents. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry