bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Music as Text in the Works of Bulgakov
Authors: Andrews Edna , Lowry Yana
Published: September 2018

The present article is a modest introduction to a larger theme that analyzes the use of music as text in the plays, short stories and novels of Mixail Bulgakov. The important contribution of Juri Lotman’s theoretical work on artistic space, the semiosphere, and the role of incorporating “texts within texts” (текст в тексте) is fundamental to our explication of the process of understanding Bulgakov’s use of music as text in a variety of its manifestations, resulting in an integrated and full-bodied textual structure that generates meanings critical to the works in which it is embedded. This analysis will focus on defining what “music as text” is for Bulgakov and specifically consider the use of music in the play, Zoya’s Apartment (Зойкина квартира).
Biophysical models reveal the relative importance of transporter proteins and impermeant anions in chloride homeostasis
Authors: Düsterwald Kira M , Currin Christopher B , Burman Richard J , Akerman Colin J , Kay Alan R , Raimondo Joseph V
Published: September 2018

Fast synaptic inhibition in the nervous system depends on the transmembrane flux of Cl- ions based on the neuronal Cl- driving force. Established theories regarding the determinants of Cl- driving force have recently been questioned. Here, we present biophysical models of Cl- homeostasis using the pump-leak model. Using numerical and novel analytic solutions, we demonstrate that the Na+/K+-ATPase, ion conductances, impermeant anions, electrodiffusion, water fluxes and cation-chloride cotransporters (CCCs) play roles in setting the Cl- driving force. Our models, together with experimental validation, show that while impermeant anions can contribute to setting [Cl-]i in neurons, they have a negligible effect on the driving force for Cl- locally and cell-wide. In contrast, we demonstrate that CCCs are well-suited for modulating Cl- driving force and hence inhibitory signaling in neurons. Our findings reconcile recent experimental findings and provide a framework for understanding the interplay of different chloride regulatory processes in neurons.
Geopolitical species revisited: genomic and morphological data indicate that the roundtail chubGila robustaspecies complex (Teleostei, Cyprinidae) is a single species
Authors: Copus Joshua M. , Montgomery W. L. , Forsman Zac H. , Bowen Brian W. , Toonen Robert J.
Published: September 2018

TheGila robustaspecies complex in the Lower Colorado River Basin has a complicated taxonomic history. Recent authors have separated this group into three nominal taxa,G. robusta,G. intermedia, andG. nigra, however aside from location, no reliable method of distinguishing individuals of these species currently exists. To assess relationships within this group, we examined morphology of type specimens and fresh material, and used RADseq methods to assess phylogenetic relationship among these nominal species. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference tree building methods reveal high concordance between tree topologies based on the mitochondrial and nuclear datasets. Coalescent SNAPP analysis resolved a similar tree topology. Neither morphological nor molecular data reveal diagnostic differences between these species as currently defined. As such,G. intermediaandG. nigrashould be considered synonyms of the seniorG. robusta. We hypothesize that climate driven wet and dry cycles have led to periodic isolation of population subunits and subsequent local divergence followed by reestablished connectivity and mixing. Management plans should therefore focus on retaining genetic variability and viability of geographic populations to preserve adaptability to changing climate conditions.
Distribution, habitat associations, and conservation status updates for the pilose crayfish Pacifastacus gambelii (Girard, 1852) and Snake River pilose crayfish Pacifastacus connectens (Faxon, 1914) of the western United States
Authors: Egly Rachel M. , Larson Eric R.
Published: September 2018

Our study evaluates the distribution, habitat associations, and current conservation status of the Snake River pilose crayfish Pacifastacus connectens (Faxon, 1914) and pilose crayfish Pacifastacus gambelii (Girard, 1852), two little-studied and data-deficient species endemic to the western United States. We first developed a species distribution model (SDM) for the pilose crayfishes based on their historical occurrence records using boosted regression trees and freshwater GIS data layers. We then sampled 163 sites in the summers of 2016 and 2017 within the distribution of these crayfishes, including 50 where these species were observed historically. We next compared our field results to modeled predictions of suitable habitat from the SDM. Our SDM predicted 73 sites (45%) we sampled as suitable for the pilose crayfishes, with a moderate AUC value of 0.824. The pilose crayfishes were generally predicted to occur in larger streams and rivers with less extreme upstream temperature and precipitation seasonality. We found the pilose crayfishes at only 20 (12%) of the 163 total sites we sampled, 14 (20%) of the 73 sites predicted as suitable for them by our SDM, and 12 (24%) of 50 historical sites that we sampled. We found the invasive virile crayfish Faxonius virilis (Hagen, 1870) at 22 sites total and 12 (24%) historical sites for the pilose crayfishes, and we found the “native invader” signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus (Dana, 1852) at 29 sites total and 6 (12%) historical sites for the pilose crayfishes. We subsequently used a single classification tree to identify factors associated with our high rate of false positives for contemporary pilose crayfish distributions relative to our SDM. This classification tree identified the presence of invasive crayfishes, impairment of the benthic community, and sampling method as some of the factors differentiating false positives relative to true positives for the pilose crayfishes. Our study identified the historical distribution and habitat associations for P. connectens and P. gambelii using an SDM and contrasted this prediction to results of contemporary field sampling. We found that the pilose crayfishes have seemingly experienced substantial range declines, attributable to apparent displacement by invasive crayfishes and impairment or change to stream communities and habitat. We recommend increased conservation and management attention to P. connectens and P. gambelii in response to these findings.
Post‐transcriptional regulation of PIAS3 expression by miR‐18a in malignant mesothelioma
Authors: He Tian , McColl Karen , Sakre Nneha , Chen Yanwen , Wildey Gary , Dowlati Afshin
Published: September 2018

Protein inhibitor of activated STAT3 (PIAS3) is an endogenous suppressor of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling. By directly interacting with phosphorylated STAT3, PIAS3 can block the downstream transcriptional activity of STAT3, which is hyper‐activated in various cancers. We previously reported that in malignant mesothelioma (MM), low PIAS3 expression is associated with increased STAT3 activation and correlates with poor patient survival, yet the regulatory mechanism(s) governing PIAS3 expression in MM remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that PIAS3 protein expression does not correlate with its mRNA level in MM cell lines, indicating that PIAS3 expression is regulated at a post‐transcriptional level. Inhibition of proteasomal degradation with MG132 (10 μm) or bortezomib (1 μm), alone and in combination, did not increase PIAS3 protein levels; furthermore, inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide treatment did not decrease PIAS3 levels within 48 h, suggesting that PIAS3 expression is not actively regulated at a post‐translational level. To determine whether miRNA (miRs) can translationally regulate PIAS3 expression, we combined miR microarray analysis with bioinformatic screening to identify candidate miRs, in MM cell lines with low PIAS3 expression, followed by luciferase reporter assays to validate miR regulation of the PIAS3 3′UTR. We identified miR‐18a as a suppressor of PIAS3 expression that is upregulated in MM cells and whose inhibition can increase PIAS3 expression and suppress STAT3 activity. Moreover, we showed that miR‐18a inhibition can decrease MM cell viability and that its expression is negatively correlated with MM patient survival. Taken together, these results suggest that targeting miR‐18a may have therapeutic benefit in MM.
Role of TGF‐β1/miR‐382‐5p/SOD2 axis in the induction of oxidative stress in CD34+ cells from primary myelofibrosis
Authors: Rossi Chiara , Zini Roberta , Rontauroli Sebastiano , Ruberti Samantha , Prudente Zelia , Barbieri Greta , Bianchi Elisa , Salati Simona , Genovese Elena , Bartalucci Niccolò , Guglielmelli Paola , Tagliafico Enrico , Rosti Vittorio , Barosi Giovanni , Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Manfredini Rossella ,   the AGIMM (AIRC‐Gruppo Italiano Malattie Mieloproliferative) investigators
Published: September 2018

Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by an excessive production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines resulting in chronic inflammation and genomic instability. Besides the driver mutations in JAK2, MPL, and CALR genes, the deregulation of miRNA expression may also contribute to the pathogenesis of PMF. To this end, we recently reported the upregulation of miR‐382‐5p in PMF CD34+ cells. In order to unveil the mechanistic details of the role of miR‐382‐5p in pathogenesis of PMF, we performed gene expression profiling of CD34+ cells overexpressing miR‐382‐5p. Among the downregulated genes, we identified superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), which is a predicted target of miR‐382‐5p. Subsequently, we confirmed miR‐382‐5p/SOD2 interaction by luciferase assay and we showed that miR‐382‐5p overexpression in CD34+ cells causes the decrease in SOD2 activity leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and oxidative DNA damage. In addition, our data indicate that inhibition of miR‐382‐5p in PMF CD34+ cells restores SOD2 function, induces ROS disposal, and reduces DNA oxidation. Since the pro‐inflammatory cytokine transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) is a key player in PMF pathogenesis, we further investigated the effect of TGF‐β1 on ROS and miR‐382‐5p levels. Our data showed that TGF‐β1 treatment enhances miR‐382‐5p expression and reduces SOD2 activity leading to ROS accumulation. Finally, inhibition of TGF‐β1 signaling in PMF CD34+ cells by galunisertib significantly reduced miR‐382‐5p expression and ROS accumulation and restored SOD2 activity. As a whole, this study reports that TGF‐β1/miR‐382‐5p/SOD2 axis deregulation in PMF cells is linked to ROS overproduction that may contribute to enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation. Our results suggest that galunisertib may represent an effective drug reducing abnormal oxidative stress induced by TGF‐β1 in PMF patients.

Database linking

GEO: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/query/acc.cgi?acc=GSE103464.
Deep brain stimulation in five patients with severe disorders of consciousness
Authors: Lemaire Jean‐Jacques , Sontheimer Anna , Pereira Bruno , Coste Jérôme , Rosenberg Sarah , Sarret Catherine , Coll Guillaume , Gabrillargues Jean , Jean Betty , Gillart Thierry , Coste Aurélien , Roche Basile , Kelly Antony , Pontier Bénédicte , Feschet Fabien
Published: September 2018

Objective

The efficacy of deep brain stimulation in disorders of consciousness remains inconclusive. We investigated bilateral 30‐Hz low‐frequency stimulation designed to overdrive neuronal activity by dual pallido‐thalamic targeting, using the Coma Recovery Scale Revised (CRS‐R) to assess conscious behavior.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, single center, observational 11‐month pilot study comprising four phases: baseline (2 months); surgery and titration (1 month); blind, random, crossover, 1.5‐month ON and OFF periods; and unblinded, 5‐month stimulation ON. Five adult patients were included: one unresponsive‐wakefulness‐syndrome male (traumatic brain injury); and four patients in a minimally conscious state, one male (traumatic brain injury) and three females (two hemorrhagic strokes and one traumatic brain injury). Primary outcome measures focused on CRS‐R scores. Secondary outcome measures focused notably on baseline brain metabolism and variation in activity (stimulation ON – baseline) using normalized fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography maps. Statistical analysis used random‐effect models.

Results

The two male patients (one minimally conscious and one unresponsive wakefulness syndrome) showed improved mean CRS‐R scores (stimulation ON vs. baseline), in auditory, visual and oromotor/verbal subscores, and visual subscores respectively. The metabolism of the medial cortices (low at baseline in all five patients) increased specifically in the two responders.

Interpretation

Our findings show there were robust but limited individual clinical benefits, mainly in visual and auditory processes. Overall modifications seem linked to the modulation of thalamo‐cortico‐basal and tegmental loops activating default mode network cortices. Specifically, in the two responders there was an increase in medial cortex activity related to internal awareness.
Profiling Heterogeneous Circulating Tumor Cells (CTC) Populations in Pancreatic Cancer Using a Serial Microfluidic CTC Carpet Chip
Authors: Zeinali Mina , Murlidhar Vasudha , Fouladdel Shamileh , Shao Shimeng , Zhao Lili , Cameron Heather , Bankhead Armand , Shi Jiaqi , Cuneo Kyle C. , Sahai Vaibhav , Azizi Ebrahim , Wicha Max S. , Hafner Mathias , Simeone Diane M. , Nagrath Sunitha
Published: September 2018

Although isolation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients is feasible, investigating their clinical utility has proven less successful than other cancers due to the limitations of epithelial cellular adhesion molecule (EpCAM)‐only based CTC assays. An integrated technology‐ and biology‐based approach using a microfluidic “Carpet Chip” is presented to study the biological relevance of heterogeneous CTC populations. Both epithelial CTCs (EpCs) and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐like CTCs (EMTCs) are isolated simultaneously from the whole blood of pancreatic cancer (PaCa) patients (n = 35) by separately targeting two surface markers: EpCAM and CD133. Recovery of cancer cell lines spiked into whole blood is ≥97% with >76% purity. Thirty‐four patients had ≥5 EpCs mL−1 and 35 patients had ≥15 EMTCs mL−1. Overall, significantly higher numbers of EMTCs than EpCs are recovered, reflecting the aggressive nature of PaCa. Furthermore, higher numbers of EMTCs are observed in patients with lymph node involvement compared to patients without. Gene expression profiling of CTCs from 17 patients reveals that CXCR1 is significantly upregulated in EpCs, while known stem cell markers POU5F1/Oct‐4 and MYC are upregulated in EMTCs. In conclusion, successful isolation and genomic profiling of heterogeneous CTC populations are demonstrated, revealing genetic signatures relevant to patient outcomes.
Cyclic Deformation Behavior of an Ultra‐High Strength Austenitic‐Martensitic Steel Treated by Novel Q&P Processing
Authors: Droste Matthias , Wendler Marco , Volkova Olena , Biermann Horst
Published: September 2018

An ultra‐high‐strength austenitic‐martensitic stainless steel is produced by a novel quenching and partitioning (Q&P) process, provoking α’‐martensite formation during a cooling step to cryogenic temperatures. The cooling temperature is varied in order to achieve three different material states with different α’‐martensite volume fractions. Subsequently, all of the steels used are partitioned at 450 °C for 3 min to achieve thermal stabilization of remaining austenite and precipitation strengthening of martensite by M3C‐type carbides. The various states are characterized by tensile and total strain‐controlled fatigue tests (0.25% ≤ Δϵt/2 ≤ 1.2%). Furthermore, the microstructure is investigated by scanning electron microscopy techniques. The state evident after quenching close to the Néel temperature during the Q&P process exhibits both the best quasi‐static and cyclic properties with respect to strength, ductility, and fatigue life. Similar to TRIP steel, the formation of fatigue‐induced α’‐martensite via intermediate ϵ‐martensite (i.e., γ → ϵ → α') is observed and leads to cyclic hardening, the extent of which depends on the applied strain amplitude and the austenite stability of the respective material state.
Synthesis and Applications of Graphdiyne‐Based Metal‐Free Catalysts
Authors: Zuo Zicheng , Wang Dan , Zhang Jin , Lu Fushen , Li Yuliang
Published: September 2018

The development of carbon materials offers the hope for obtaining inexpensive and high‐performance alternatives to substitute noble‐metal catalysts for their sustainable application. Graphdiyne, the rising‐star carbon allotrope, is a big family with many members, and first realized the coexistence of sp‐ and sp2‐hybridized carbon atoms in a 2D planar structure. Different from the prevailing carbon materials, its nonuniform distribution in the electronic structure and wide tunability in bandgap show many possibilities and special inspirations to construct new‐concept metal‐free catalysts, and provide many opportunities for achieving a catalytic activity comparable with that of noble‐metal catalysts. Herein, the recent progress in synthetic methodologies, theoretical predictions, and experimental investigations of graphdiyne for metal‐free catalysts is systematically summarized. Some new perspectives of the opportunities and challenges in developing high‐performance graphdiyne‐based metal‐free catalysts are demonstrated.
An Insulin Microneedle Pen (IMP) for Self‐Subcutaneous Insulin Injection
Authors: Ma Yonghao , Li Cheng Guo , Kim Suyong , Fakhraei Lahiji Shayan , Lee Chisong , Jung Hyungil
Published: September 2018

Metallic hollow microneedles (MHMs) are an ideal alternative to traditional insulin pen needles for innocuous self‐administration of insulin into the subcutaneous layer. Nonetheless, MHMs present a number of challenges, including restricted use of biocompatible materials, biohazard issues, and limitations of scale‐up fabrication. Here, a novel MHM‐manufacturing technology that creates a high‐aspect‐ratio microstructure by simple centrifugation is proposed. Instead of thermoplastics, biocompatible polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is used without any biohazardous solvent. The critical hurdle—maintaining the geometric integrity of the water‐soluble PVP microneedle mold during electroplating—is overcome via a waterproof parylene coating. Cost‐effective nickel‐carbon tungsten electroless plating is performed that is suitable for clinical application. For the first time, this MHM is assembled into an insulin pen system for manufacture of an insulin microneedle pen (IMP). Characteristics of the IMP are optimized: length: 8 mm, minimized outer diameter: 125 µm, and a sharp bevel angle: 15°. It is demonstrated that the IMP not only administers insulin with the same accuracy as a traditional insulin pen needle but also produces less tissue damage in a porcine model. The proposed IMP may facilitate clinical application and potentially make the daily treatments necessary and easier for patients with diabetes.
Stretchable CNTs‐Ecoflex Composite as Variable‐Transmittance Skin for Ultrasensitive Strain Sensing
Authors: Jiang Yuting , Wang Yang , Mishra Yogendra Kumar , Adelung Rainer , Yang Ya
Published: September 2018

Wireless controlled flexible electronic devices are going to be the key components in various technologies toward sustainable advancement of the society in future. However, most of the currently available conventional sensing devices, which usually comprise complex structures and the integration of stretchability, face a lot of difficulties to satisfy the comprehensive demands. Here, a new fabrication method is demonstrated for integration of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and stretchable silicone film into a sandwich structure, in which the transmittance can be significantly controlled via externally applied strain. The transmittance change can, in turn, also be exploited to distinguish the applied strain. The proposed sandwich structure significantly enhances the stretchability of the CNTs networks, endowing the sensor with a strain sensitivity as high as 70.2 and a wide reliable strain sensing range up to 400%. The proposed CNTs based flexible device fabrication concept is simple and cost‐effective which can be easily up scaled toward promising applications in wireless weight sensing, interactive wearable devices, smart robots, and other advanced technologies.
Scalable Elasticoluminescent Strain Sensor for Precise Dynamic Stress Imaging and Onsite Infrastructure Diagnosis
Authors: Liu Linsheng , Xu Chao‐Nan , Yoshida Akihito , Tu Dong , Ueno Naohiro , Kainuma Shigenobu
Published: September 2018

Precise dynamic stress/strain imaging is critical for a broad range of research and engineering analyses ranging from micrometer to meter‐scales, but there is no precise multiscale strain sensor, especially for onsite real‐time structural health monitoring. Here, a scalable elasticoluminescent strain sensor is presented for solving worldwide structural diagnosis problems ranging from micrometer to meter‐scales. Significant progress has recently been made on both highly sensitive elasticoluminescent sensors and quantitative evaluations in dynamic stress/strain imaging. The precise dynamic imaging of stress/strain and onsite fracture inspection and danger‐level (stress concentration) diagnoses on large‐scale infrastructures are demonstrated. The innovative scalable strain sensor would prospectively open a new era in multiscale strain imaging research and contribute to multifield research related precise dynamic stress/strain imaging and healthcare of structures.
Hand‐Driven Gyroscopic Hybrid Nanogenerator for Recharging Portable Devices
Authors: Chung Jihoon , Yong Hyungseok , Moon Haksung , Duong Quang Van , Choi Seung Tae , Kim Dongseob , Lee Sangmin
Published: September 2018

With the rise of portable and wearable electronics, a fast‐charging, long‐lasting power solution is needed; thus, there are attempts to harvest energy from the ambient environment. Mechanical energy harvesting through piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators (PENG and TENG) is a promising approach due to their light weight, low cost, and high‐power density in comparison to other technologies. Both types of generators are capable of charging portable and smart devices on their own by converting mechanical energy into electricity. However, most previous methods have excessive input conditions, such as high rpm and input frequency, that can be only applied with other actuators. Here, a hand‐held gyroscopic generator is presented that uses the gyroscopic principle to reach a rotation rate above 8000 rpm with only hand input. The generator comprises a rotating flywheel inside a casing. Both the flywheel and casing have a TENG, and with a hybrid generator, electrical power is produced from rotation, vibration, and centrifugal force during operation. The device shows a consistent open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 90 V and a closed‐circuit current (ICC) of 11 µA with a frequency of 200 Hz. As a stand‐alone device, this generator can power portable sensors and smartphones through hand rotation.
Magnetic 3d Transition Metal Atomic Chains Modulated by the Intrinsic Valley Structure in MX Monolayer
Authors: Li Shujing , Zhou Mei , Zheng Fawei , Zhang Ping
Published: September 2018

A systematic study of 3d transition metal (TM) atomic chains adsorbed on monolayer MX (M = Si/Ge, X = P/As) by using first‐principle calculations is presented. The results demonstrate that all 3d TMs, except for the fullfilled shell Zn atom, will spontaneously adsorb on the top of the bridge site over the (MM)x bond in the intrinsic valleys of MX monolayer forming atomic chains with sizable adsorption energies. For TMs from Sc to Co, the TM–MX systems exhibit nonzero magnetic moments. The ferromagnetic characters of atomic chains are mainly influenced by the interactions between TMs and X atoms and also M atoms in the valleys of monolayer MX. Furthermore, the magnetism of TM–MX systems with TMs varying from Sc to Zn are maintained under moderate external uniaxial or biaxial strains. The work proposes a new possible route exploiting the intrinsic crystal structure of MX to synthesize ferromagnetic atomic chains. The sizable adsorption energy, high spin polarization, and good flexibility promise TM–MX systems rich potential applications in spintronics and magnetoelectric devices.
Small‐Ring Metathesis: Delights and Difficulties
Authors: Panda Biswajit
Published: September 2018

The metathetical opening of strained cyclopropene and cyclobutene rings is a well‐established conversion, successfully used in several total syntheses and in the preparation of polymers. Concurrently, it is generally considered that small cyclic products cannot be easily made by ring‐closing metathesis (RCM). The current reports on the preparation of substituted cyclobutenes via 1,5‐enyne RCM changed this scenario. In recent years, there have been significant pieces of work on metathesis of strained three‐ and four‐membered rings reported, which required a thorough review.
Metal‐Free Cross‐Dehydrogenative Coupling (CDC): Molecular Iodine as a Versatile Catalyst/Reagent for CDC Reactions
Authors: Parvatkar Prakash T. , Manetsch Roman , Banik Bimal K.
Published: September 2018

The development of ecofriendly methods for carbon–carbon (C−C) and carbon–heteroatom (C−Het) bond formation is of great significance in modern‐day research. Metal‐free cross‐dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) has emerged as an important tool for organic and medicinal chemists as a means to form C−C and C−Het bonds, as it is atom economical and more efficient and greener than transition‐metal catalyzed CDC reactions. Molecular iodine (I2) is recognized as an inexpensive, environmentally benign, and easy‐to‐handle catalyst or reagent to pursue CDCs under mild reaction conditions, with good regioselectivities and broad substrate compatibility. This review presents the recent developments of I2‐catalyzed C−C, C−N, C−O, and C−S/C−Se bond‐forming reactions for the synthesis of various important organic molecules by cross‐dehydrogenative coupling.
Multicomponent spectrofluorimetric method for the assay of carboxymethylflavin and its hydrolytic products: kinetic applications
Authors: Mirza Tania , Anwar Zubair , Ejaz Muhammad Ahsan , Ahmed Sofia , Sheraz Muhammad Ali , Ahmad Iqbal
Published: September 2018

The simultaneous assay of carboxymethylflavin (CMF), an intermediate in the photolysis of riboflavin, and its hydrolytic side‐chain cleavage products, lumichrome (LC) (acid solution) and LC and lumiflavin (LF) as well as isoalloxazine ring cleavage products, 1,2‐dihydro‐1‐methyl‐2‐keto‐3‐quinoxaline carboxylic acid (KA) and 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐1‐methyl‐2,3‐dioxo‐quinoxaline (DQ) (alkaline solution) has been carried out by a multicomponent spectrofluorimetric method. The method is based on the adjustment of pH of the degraded solutions to 2.0 and extraction of LC and LF with chloroform. The chloroform extract is evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure, the residue dissolved in pH 6.5 citro‐phosphate buffer and LC and LF determined at their fluorescence maxima at 478 and 530 nm, respectively. The pH of the aqueous phase is re‐adjusted to 6.5 and the solution used for the determination of CMF, KA and DQ at the wavelengths of 530, 443 and 420 nm, respectively. The proposed method has been validated according to ICH guidelines. The calibration curves for CMF and its hydrolytic products are linear in the concentration range of 0.5–5.0 × 10−6 M. The mean recovery ranges from 99.0–102.0% with relative standard deviation (RSD) of 0.19–0.99%. The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantification (LOQ) are in the range of 1.17–1.78 × 10−7 M and 3.55–5.40 × 10−7 M, respectively. The uniformity of molar balance of CMF and degradation products during hydrolytic reactions indicates the accuracy of the proposed method for the spectrofluorimetric assay of the compounds. It has been applied to study the kinetics of hydrolytic reactions of CMF.
Relationship between platelet count and platelet width distribution and serum uric acid concentrations in patients with untreated essential hypertension
Authors: Tayefi Maryam , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi , Maftouh Mona , Moohebati Mohsen , Bahrami Afsane , Parizadeh Seyed MohammadReza , Mahdizadeh Adeleh , Ghazizadeh Hamideh , Bazeli Javad , Heidari‐Bakavoli Alireza , Kianifar Hamidreza , Mohammadzadeh Elham , Rahmani Farzad , Esmaeili Habibollah , Ebrahimi Mahmoud , Azarpazhooh Mahmoud Reza , Nematy Mohsen , Safarian Mohammad , Ferns Gordon A , Avan Amir , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: September 2018

Hematological parameters have emerged as independent determinants of high serum concentrations of uric acid (UA) and predictive factors in the evaluation of the total cardiovascular risk in patients with essential hypertensive. Here, we have investigated the possible relationships between hematological factors and serum uric acid levels in hypertensive patients recruited as part of Mashhad Stroke and Heart Atherosclerotic Disorders cohort study. Two‐thousand three‐hundred and thirty‐four hypertensive individuals were recruited from this cohort and these were divided into two groups; those with either high or low serum UA concentrations. Demographic, biochemical, and hematological characteristics of population were evaluated in all the subjects. Logistic‐regression analysis was performed to determine the association of hematological parameters with hypertension (HTN). Of the 2334 hypertensive subjects, 290 cases had low UA, and 2044 had high serum UA concentrations. Compared with the low UA group, the patients with high serum UA, had higher values for several hematological parameters, whilst platelet counts (PLT) were lower. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that PLT and serum high sensitivity‐c reactive protein (hs‐CRP) were correlated with serum UA level. Stepwise multiple logistic regression model confirmed that platelet distribution width (PDW) and gender were independent determinant of a high serum UA. PDW and PLT appear to be independently associated with serum UA level in patients with HTN. © 2018 BioFactors, 44(6):532–538, 2018
Effect of beta-blocker therapy on early mortality after emergency colonic cancer surgery
Authors: Ahl R , Matthiessen P , Fang X , Cao Y , Sjolin G , Lindgren R , Ljungqvist O , Mohseni S
Published: September 2018

Background

Emergency colorectal cancer surgery is associated with significant mortality. Induced adrenergic hyperactivity is thought to be an important contributor. Downregulating the effects of circulating catecholamines may reduce the risk of adverse outcomes. This study assessed whether regular preoperative beta-blockade reduced mortality after emergency colonic cancer surgery.

Methods

This cohort study used the prospectively collected Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry to recruit all adult patients requiring emergency colonic cancer surgery between 2011 and 2016. Patients were subdivided into those receiving regular beta-blocker therapy before surgery and those who were not (control). Demographics and clinical outcomes were compared. Risk factors for 30-day mortality were evaluated using Poisson regression analysis.

Results

A total of 3187 patients were included, of whom 685 (21·5 per cent) used regular beta-blocker therapy before surgery. The overall 30-day mortality rate was significantly reduced in the beta-blocker group compared with controls: 3·1 (95 per cent c.i. 1·9 to 4·7) versus 8·6 (7·6 to 9·8) per cent respectively (P < 0·001). Beta-blocker therapy was the only modifiable protective factor identified in multivariable analysis of 30-day all-cause mortality (incidence rate ratio 0·31, 95 per cent c.i. 0·20 to 0·47; P < 0·001) and was associated with a significant reduction in death of cardiovascular, respiratory, sepsis and multiple organ failure origin.

Conclusion

Preoperative beta-blocker therapy may be associated with a reduction in 30-day mortality following emergency colonic cancer surgery.
Improved lumbar infusion test analysis for normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis
Authors: Ryding Erik , Kahlon Babar , Reinstrup Peter
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Constant infusion lumbar infusion test (LIT) is an important way to find which patients, of those with signs and symptoms corresponding to normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) who will improve from shunt operation. LIT is a stress test on the ability for cerebrospinal fluid re‐absorbtion. The aim of this study is to show how the information from LIT can be improved by quantitative analysis and avoidance of methodological pitfalls.

Material and methods

The potential pitfalls, and the analysis method, are described in detail. The analysis was applied on pre‐operative constant infusion LIT from 31 patients operated for NPH, with known outcome. The pre‐ and post‐operative walking speed was used to grade pathology progression or improvement.

Results

The maximal, plateau, intra‐spinal pressure at constant infusion LIT is an ambivalent indicator for NPH: while low maximal pressure indicates no cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) absorbtion pathology, too high pressure (≥47 mmHg) may mean no diagnosis, because of stenosis of the Sylvian aqueduct. When subjects with too high intra‐spinal pressure were excluded, the new analysis gave a couple of diagnostic volume parameters, of which one appears to be an optimal LIT parameter for identifying NPH patients with 14% better accuracy than plateau pressure.

Conclusion

By avoiding methodological pitfalls, and optimal analysis of the results from lumbar infusion test, the number of NPH patients who do not have a successful outcome after shunt operation may be further decreased.
Kids supporting kids: A 10‐week small group curriculum for grief and loss in schools
Authors: Tillman Kathleen S. , Prazak Michael
Published: September 2018

Background

Experiencing the death of a loved one can negatively affect a child's emotional, behavioural and academic functioning. However, no in‐school group interventions exist to assist children in processing and grieving the loss of loved ones. To address this, Kids Supporting Kids, a 10‐step group counselling protocol for elementary school students, was developed to help students who have experienced loss of a loved one.

Aims

The group curriculum aims to help students develop healthier coping skills to deal with grief‐related distress; decrease internalising and externalising problems; and decrease problematic trauma symptoms. The present study investigates the feasibility of this intervention by capturing feedback from student participants, parents and teachers.

Methodology

Students, teachers and parents were each given pre‐test measures. The group consisted of 10 weekly sessions on the topics of establishing safety, sharing their stories, creating a narrative with positive memories, identifying and expressing emotions, coping skills, social and family support, remembering loved ones and saying goodbye. Students, parents and teachers were also given mid‐group checks and post‐group questionnaires.

Results

Qualitative improvements towards these goals were noted by students, parents and teachers. Students reported developing healthier coping skills, which were observed and noted as behavioural and emotional improvements by parents and teachers.

Conclusions

The present feasibility study supports the hypotheses that qualitative improvements would be noted by each group and that the feasibility of this protocol would be supported.
3D printed cardiac fistula: Guiding percutaneous structural intervention
Authors: Aroney Nicholas , Putrino Anthony , Scalia Greg , Walters Darren
Published: September 2018

We present the case of a 21‐year‐old female with a complex right coronary sinus of valsalva to right atrial fistulae. 3D printing of the fistulae and surrounding anatomy was beneficial in assessment of the anatomy and perioperative planning. Successful percutaneous closure was achieved.
Intracardiac echocardiography with ultrasound probe placed in the upper left pulmonary vein to guide left atrial appendage closure: First description
Authors: Patti Giuseppe , Mantione Ludmilla , Goffredo Costanza , Ussia Gian P.
Published: September 2018

Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has become an effective alternative to trans‐esophageal echocardiography (TEE) as a guidance during interventional procedures for structural heart diseases, allowing to proceed under conscious sedation. To guide percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure, the ICE probe is usually placed in the right atrium, in the pulmonary artery or in the left atrium (LA); however, the views from the right atrium or the pulmonary artery are often suboptimal, debarring a complete visualization of the LAA and the surrounding structures, whereas the LA location requires trans‐septal puncture, may provoke LA wall mechanical stimulation and is often associated with unstable position of the ICE probe. In our case, after a second trans‐septal puncture, the ICE probe was placed in the upper left pulmonary vein; this was safely performed and provided an optimal imaging of the LAA, comparable to that obtained by TEE, thus warranting an adequate guide during all procedural steps.
References for left main stem dimensions: A cross sectional intravascular ultrasound analysis
Authors: van Zandvoort Laurens J. C. , Tovar Forero Maria N. , Masdjedi Kaneshka , Lemmert Miguel E. , Diletti Roberto , Wilschut Jeroen , de Jaegere Peter , Zijlstra Felix , Van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Daemen Joost
Published: September 2018

Background

Angiographic assessment of left main coronary artery (LMCA) lesions remains challenging and limited data is available on reference diameters and length of nonobstructive LMCA dimensions. Our aim was to provide insights in the dimensions of nonobstructive LMCA and to find a possible correlation with gender and patient habitus.

Methods

This retrospective single center study was performed in a consecutive cohort of patients who underwent Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) guided percutaneous coronary interventions of the left coronary system including complete pullbacks of a non‐obstructive LMCA (n = 254).

Results

Mean LMCA length as measured with IVUS was 7.37 ± 4.2 mm and mean lumen area (LA) was 15.63 ± 4.76 mm2 corresponding to a mean lumen diameter (LD) of 4.41 ± 0.67 mm. An IVUS derived mean LD of >4 mm was present in 71.7%, >4.5 mm in 43% and > 5 mm in 19% of patients. LMCA mean LA was significantly smaller in women as compared to men (14.1 ± 4.1 mm2 and 16.2 ± 4.8 mm2, P < 0.01). Multivariable analysis identified weight of the patient as the sole significant predictor for LMCA length while height of the patient and LMCA length were predictors of LMCA mean LA. Correlation coefficients of determination for all independent predictors were low (R2 < 0.1 for all).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the mean LD of a non‐obstructive LMCA is 4 mm or greater in the majority of patients, with a mean LMCA length of 7.4 mm. Women have smaller luminal dimension than men. No clinically relevant predictors were found for both LMCA length and mean LA.
Use of an AFX aortic cuff in the endovascular treatment of aortocaval fistula secondary to abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Shatila Wassim , Krajcer Zvonimir
Published: September 2018

Aortocaval fistula (ACF) is rare and lethal and can be either primary (due to an enlarged abdominal aortic aneurysm) or secondary (iatrogenic or secondary to abdominal surgery) in origin. We describe a case of an ACF secondary to a ruptured abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysm that we successfully treated with a planned endovascular approach using an AFX aortic cuff on both the arterial and venous sides.
Preparation of Novel Aromatic‐Aliphatic Poly(ketone ester)s through Condensation of Biomass‐Derived Monomers
Authors: Chen Qin , Ren Tianhua , Chai Yang , Guo Yuanlong , Ingram Ian D. V. , North Michael , Xie Haibo , Kent Zhao Zongbao
Published: September 2018

Abstract: Novel unsaturated and saturated monomers with a hydroxyl group and a carboxylic group via aldol condensation reaction of lignin‐derived aromatic aldehydes with levulinic acid were prepared through organocatalysis and hydrogenation, respectively. The catalytic process was optimized and the structure of the monomers were full characterized. The as‐prepared monomers were ready for the subsequent condensation polymerization to achieve a serial of novel full biobased poly(ester ketone)s. The chemical‐physical properties of the poly(ester ketone)s were evaluated. This provides a green upgrading strategy to prepare sustainable synthetic polymers from building blocks available on a large scale using a catalytic biorefinery approach.
Phosphate‐Based Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting: Recent Progress
Authors: Guo Ronghui , Lai Xiaoxu , Huang Jianwen , Du Xinchuan , Yan Yichao , Sun Yinghui , Zou Guifu , Xiong Jie
Published: September 2018

Efficient hydrogen production by water electrolysis is significant for the development of renewable energy. To date, the cost and scarcity of noble‐metal catalysts are limiting their scale‐up applications. To overcome the current challenge, high‐performance novel electrocatalysts are required to speed up the commercialization of electrolysis technology. Notably, the sluggish electrode reactions, namely, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), especially the latter, have been the main rate‐limiting factor for water splitting. Phosphate, as a new series of OER electrocatalysts, has attracted enormous attentions, owing to its unique lattice structure geometry. The phosphate group not only benefits the adsorption of water molecule but also facilitates the oxyhydrate of metal site and dissociation of water. This Minireview provides a brief summary of the recent progresses of phosphate‐based electrocatalysts, discusses the relationship between crystal structure and catalytic activity, and presents the challenges of phosphate electrocatalysts.
On‐Gold Recombinase Polymerase Primer Elongation for Electrochemical Detection of Bacterial Genome: Mechanism Insights and Influencing Factors
Authors: Sánchez‐Salcedo Raquel , Miranda‐Castro Rebeca , de los Santos‐Álvarez Noemí , Lobo‐Castañón María Jesús
Published: September 2018

The detection of bacterial pathogens may be accomplished through their genome material. With that aim, current methods usually rely on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications, which are time consuming and require specialist equipment. Here, we optimized an on‐chip isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) with chronoamperometric detection, which could be run with simple equipment. A short thiol‐modified oligonucleotide, complementary to a fragment of bipA gene of Salmonella spp., is chemisorbed onto the gold chip surface together with p‐aminothiophenol as a blocking agent. Remarkably, we demonstrate that, in the presence of Salmonella genome, this oligonucleotide, acting as a primer in RPA, is directly elongated on the surface, copying the genome and giving rise to an on‐surface enzyme‐tagged dsDNA. After 30 min of isothermal amplification, the chronoamperometric signal, related to one of the products of the enzyme reaction, increased with the amount of Salmonella genome, which allowed the detection of 105 copies. The results of this study may be of general utility in the design of sensors for detecting other bacteria.
Electrochemical Studies of Anti‐HIV Drug Emtricitabine: Oxidative Determination and Improved Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Mulik Balaji B. , Dhumal Sambhaji T. , Harale Rajkumar R. , Kharat Kiran R. , Sathe Bhaskar R.
Published: September 2018

In this work, an electroanalytical method adopted for determination of Emtricitabine (EMT) using cyclic and linear sweep voltametry (CV and LSV) on gold (Au dia. 3 mm) disc electrode in 0.5 M KOH as a supporting electrolyte is developed. It is found that the oxidation process is irreversible over a wider pH range and exhibited linear diffusion‐controlled behaviour. EMT exhibits a signal at 0.51 V vs SCE corresponding to oxidation of EMT in 0.5 M KOH on the Au disc electrode. Furthermore, CV and LSV were used to determine electroanalytical parameters like the limit of detection of 0.7069 (LOD), limit of quantification 2.35 (LOQ), sensitivity 0.60 μA mM−1 cm−2, the effect of accumulation, change in pH, sweep rate and effect of concentration (0.001–100 mM) on the stability (less than 5 % potential and current) of the signal. Further stability studies were carried out by monitoring the response on adding some other common biologically active excipients. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of pristine EMT and its oxidative product shows significant enhancement after oxidative conversion. This work may thus open the door for the design of electrochemical methods for the electrochemical detection followed by determination of various electroanalytical parameters of drug molecules along with their electrochemical conversion to more active forms with comparatively enhanced biological activity. The presented results are reflecting the significant environmental and clinical importance of the presented approach.
Interfacial Ion‐Transport Mechanism of Li7(Al0.1)La3Zr2O12 Solid Electrolyte Modified by using a Spark Plasma Sintering Method
Authors: Bai Lixiong , Xue Wendong , Xue Yawen , Qin Haixia , Li Yan , Li Yong , Sun Jialin
Published: September 2018

A novel interfacial in situ modification for Li7(Al0.1)La3Zr2O12 is designed and prepared by using a spark plasma sintering method. The modified interface with most grain boundary area exhibits excellent interfacial electrochemical properties. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) data indicate that the interfacial modified specimen (spark plasma sintering method, 1000 °C, 5 min) with 38.2(6) nm grain diameter and 32,134 cm2/g grain boundary specific surface area has the highest ionic conductivity (8.84×10−4 S/cm−1). The lithium‐ion transmission mechanism in grain‐internal and grain boundaries is revealed by ab initio theory, using Materials Studio software. Furthermore, the first‐principles calculation data indicate that the migration barrier of Li+ at the Li7(Al0.1)La3Zr2O12 solid electrolyte grain boundary is 0.21 eV, which is only 2/3 of that in the grain internal (0.33 eV). As a result, SPS interfacial in situ processing technology can increase the grain boundary area, thereby reducing the ion transport barrier and the interfacial impedance of the material.
100 % Digital Process Industry – Impressions and Results from the Tutzing Symposium 2018
Authors: Kockmann Norbert
Published: September 2018

Im April 2018 haben fast 100 Experten und Entscheider in Tutzing über die Auswirkungen digitaler Werkzeuge in der Prozessindustrie diskutiert. Auf Basis des Persona‐Konzepts wurden mit Elementen des Design‐Thinking in den Workshops verschiedene Prototypen entwickelt und in griffige 12 Thesen zusammengefasst. Die enge Datenvernetzung in der gesamten Wertschöpfungskette wie auch der Produkt‐ und Prozessentwicklung wird unterstützt durch den digitalen Zwilling sowie unterschiedliche Methoden der künstlichen Intelligenz.