bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Method for Accurate Quantification of Split Glomerular Filtration Rate Using Combination of Tc-99m-DTPA Renal Dynamic Imaging and Its Plasma Clearance
Authors: Pang Xiaoxi , Li Fei , Huang Shan , Wang Cheng’en , Zhang Tao , Hu Zihao , Cheng Hao , Tao Xinchen , Chang Wenrui
Published: March 2021

Purpose. To precisely quantify split glomerular filtration rate by Tc-99m-DTPA renal dynamic imaging and plasma clearance in order to increase its consistency among doctors. Methods. Tc-99m-DTPA renal dynamic imaging was performed according to the conventional radionuclide renal dynamic imaging by five double-blinded doctors independently and automatically calculated split GFR, namely, gGFR. Moreover, the conventional radionuclide renal dynamic imaging was assessed to only outline the kidney, blank background, and automatically calculated split GFR, gGFR

′

. The total GFR value of patients, tGFR, was obtained by the double-plasma method. According to the formula,

Precise
 
GFR
 

pGFR

=
gGF

R

′

/

gGF

R

′

+
gGF

R

′

×
tGFR

. The precise GFR value of the divided kidney, pGFR, was calculated. The Kendall’s

W

test was used to compare the consistency of gGFR and pGFR drawn by five physicians. Results. According to Kendall’s

W

consistency test, Kendall’s coefficient of concordance was 0.834,

p
=
0.0001

using conventional method. The same five doctors used blank background again and the same standard Gates method to draw the kidneys, which automatically calculated gGFR

′

. Using input formula, the pGFR was calculated and Kendall’s

W

consistency test (

Kendal

l

’

s
 
coefficient
 
of
 
concordance
=
0.956

,

p
=
0.0001

). Conclusion. The combination of Tc-99m-DTPA renal dynamic imaging combined with the double-plasma method could achieve accurate split GFR, and because of the omission of influence factors, the consistency of pGFR obtained by different doctors using this method was significantly higher than that of conventional Tc-99m-DTPA renal dynamic imaging.
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) for Nonrenal Indications among Critically Ill Children with Malignancy
Authors: Hui Wun Fung , Hon Kam Lun , Leung Alexander K. C. , Leung Karen Ka Yan , Ku Shu Wing , Cheng Frankie W. T.
Published: March 2021

The role of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) has been expanding beyond support for acute kidney injury (AKI) in recent years. Children with malignancy are particularly at risk of developing conditions that may require CRRT. We reported three children with malignancy who received CRRT for non-AKI indications. Patient 1 was a 17-year-old teenage girl who developed refractory type B lactic acidosis due to relapse of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Her peak lactate level was 18 mmol/L, and the lowest pH and bicarbonate level was 7.13 and 6.0 mmol/L, respectively. She received three sessions of high-volume hemodiafiltration to bring down the lactate level. Patient 2 was a 15-year-old male with T-cell ALL who developed cytokine storm requiring mechanical ventilatory and high-dose inotropic support due to necrotizing enterocolitis complicated by pneumoperitoneum and Klebsiella pneumoniae septicemia. He received two sessions of hemoperfusion using a specific filter capable of endotoxin absorption and cytokine removal and was successfully weaned off all inotropes after the treatment. Patient 3 was an 8-year-old boy who received bone marrow transplantation and developed worsening hyperbilirubinemia and deteriorating liver function. He received a session of single-pass albumin dialysis for bilirubin removal prior to liver biopsy. Except for mild electrolyte disturbances, no major CRRT complication was encountered. Our report demonstrated that CRRT is an effective and safe procedure for a wide spectrum of nonrenal conditions among children with oncological diagnoses in the pediatric intensive care unit. However, the optimal dose, regime, timing of initiation, and monitoring target for these indications remain to be determined.
Emerging Herbal Cosmetic Production in Sri Lanka: Identifying Possible Interventions for the Development of the Herbal Cosmetic Industry
Authors: Gamage Dehel Gamage Nadeeshani Dilhara , Dharmadasa Rathnayaka Mudiyanselage , Abeysinghe Don Chandana , Wijesekara Rathnayaka Gamlathge Saman , Prathapasinghe Gamika A. , Someya Takao
Published: March 2021

Although the herbal cosmetic industry has exponentially increased globally, manufacturing of herbal cosmetic products in Sri Lanka is still very limited. Therefore, objectives of the study were to recognize plants used in commercialized herbal cosmetic products and major constraints faced by herbal cosmetic manufacturers and to identify possible interventions for the development of herbal cosmetic industry of Sri Lanka. Information was gathered via a semistructured questionnaire by personal interviews with 11 large-scale multiple herbal cosmetic products manufacturers. Collected data were analyzed via frequency index for usage and descriptive statistics. A total of 115 plant species belonging to 56 families were identified. Extensive usage of Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., Coscinium fenestratum (Goetgh.) Colebr., and Santalum album L. (90.91%) was reported among herbal cosmetic manufacturers. The highest number of plants or plant materials was used for manufacturing skin care products (54.78%) followed by hair care (19.13%) and oral care (6.96%). The majority of plants were reported from the plant family Fabaceae (16 species). Leaves (20.87%) were the widely used plant part, whereas 10 plant species were used as whole plants. Inadequacy of 7 plants/plant materials and importation of 8 plant materials for the production were also recognized. As major constraints faced by herbal cosmetic manufacturers, inadequate availability and poor quality of raw materials were emphasized. In conclusion, establishing proper cultivation system, implementing strategies for quality control of raw materials, and conducting ethnobotany, ethnopharmacological surveys to identify cosmetic potential of medicinal plants and partnerships with universities to transfer technology for product development to industries are possible interventions for the development of herbal cosmetic industry of Sri Lanka.
Biomechanical Simulation of Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Drlík Pavel , Červenka Vladimír , Červenka Jan
Published: March 2021

A pathological disorder of human penile function, known as Peyronie’s disease, is characterized by the formation of plaque particles within the tunica albuginea. The plagues in the shape of rigid plate form in the scars as a result of the imperfect healing process. Due to high stiffness, plagues are the source of pain and anomalous deformations during erectile penis function. The authors simulate the biomechanical behavior of the penile structure by a 3D finite element model. The numerical model is based on the real geometrical shape and the tissue structure with consideration of large nonlinear deformations. The penile erection is modeled by the initial strains imposed on the corpus cavernosa. The stress analysis is performed in a case study of various plague locations. The Peyronie’s syndrome manifested by the penis angular deviation simulated by the analysis is compared with the clinical data. The computational simulations provide a rational explanation for the clinical observations on patients. The objective is to apply the proposed modeling approach for the development and validation of treatment methods based on the application of shock waves.
Identification of Critical Genes and lncRNAs in Osteolysis after Total Hip Arthroplasty and Osteoarthritis by RNA Sequencing
Authors: Yang Guang , Tang Kai , Qiao Li , Li Yixin , Sun Shui
Published: March 2021

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a cost‐effective treatment for osteoarthritis (OA), and osteolysis is a common complication of THA. This study was aimed at exploring the relevant molecular biomarkers for osteolysis after THA. We performed RNA sequence to identify and characterize expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs in OA and osteolysis. Differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) in OA and osteolysis were acquired, as well as shared DEmRNAs/DElncRNAs in OA and osteolysis and osteolysis‐specific DEmRNAs/DElncRNAs. Then, shared and osteolysis‐specific DElncRNA‐DEmRNA coexpression networks were constructed to further investigate the function of DElncRNAs and DEmRNAs in OA and osteolysis. In total, 343 DEmRNAs and 25 DElncRNAs in OA, 908 DEmRNAs and 107 DElncRNAs in osteolysis, and 406 DEmRNAs and 46 DElncRNAs between OA and osteolysis were acquired. A total of 136 shared DEmRNAs and 9 shared DElncRNAs in OA and osteolysis and 736 osteolysis‐specific DEmRNAs and 103 osteolysis‐specific DElncRNAs were acquired. Then, 128 shared DElncRNA‐DEmRNA coexpression pairs and 522 osteolysis‐specific DElncRNA‐DEmRNA coexpression pairs were identified. The present study highlighted the roles of four interaction pairs, including two shared lncRNA‐mRNA interaction pairs in OA and osteolysis (AC111000.4 and AC016831.6), which may function in the immune process of OA and osteolysis by regulating CD8A and CD8B, respectively, and two osteolysis‐specific interaction pairs (AC090607.4‐FOXO3 and TAL1‐ABALON), which may play an important role in osteoclastogenesis.
Early Diagnosis of Brain Injury in Premature Infants Based on Amplitude-Integrated EEG Scoring System
Authors: Guo Xinyuan , Geng Yanfang , Zhang Lei , Niu Shiping , Xue Jiang
Published: March 2021

Analyzing and discussing the relationship between brain injury in preterm infants and related risk factors can provide evidence for perinatal prevention and early intervention of brain injury in preterm infants, thereby improving the quality of life of preterm infants. This paper selects term preterm infants diagnosed with preterm infant asphyxia in the NICU of a university’s First Affiliated Hospital from January 2018 to February 2019 as the research object. In addition, healthy term infants born at the same time in the obstetric department of this hospital are selected as the control group. Both groups of premature infants were monitored for brain function within 6 hours after birth. The aEEG results range from background activity (continuous normal voltage, discontinuous normal voltage, burst suppression, continuous low voltage, and plateau) and sleep-wake cycle (no sleep-wake cycle, immature, and mature sleep-wake cycle) to epileptic activity (single seizures, recurrent seizures, and status epilepticus), three aspects to judge. Statistical analysis uses SPSS 17.0 software. Amplitude-integrated EEG is a simplified form of continuous EEG recording. The trace of the trace represents the voltage change signal of the entire EEG background activity, which can reflect the EEG amplitude, frequency, burst-inhibition, and other pieces of information. aEEG can reflect the degree of HIE lesions in premature infants and the long-term prognosis. It is easy to operate and effective in diagnosis and can be continuously monitored. It is worthy of clinical popularization. There is a good correlation between the expression of EEG and biomarkers. Combining multiple methods can diagnose HIE earlier and evaluate the prognosis.
Extra-Adrenal Retroperitoneal Myelolipoma Resected by Laparoscopy in an Asymptomatic Patient
Authors: Ambrogi Gabriel , Murta Maria Madureira , Moeda André Silva Guimarães , Barbosa Ramon Brandão , da Silva Israel Rodrigues , Xavier Ana Beatriz Tabosa Negrão , dos Santos Matheus Vieira , de Oliveira Lucas Martinucci , Precht Bernardo Luiz Campanário , Panhoca Renato , Rios Luis Augusto Seabra
Published: March 2021

Myelolipomas are rare benign neoplasms that commonly develop in the adrenal glands. Less frequently, they can affect other organs such as the liver, stomach, liver, lung, and retroperitoneum. It affects more women, with an average age of around 61 years. Histologically, they are composed of mature adipose tissue and hematopoietic cells. With the evolution of immunohistochemistry, there are characteristics that can differentiate from malignant tumors such as liposarcomas. Its treatment remains based on surgical resection and long-term outpatient follow-up.
Postradiation Fractures after Combined Modality Treatment in Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Bartelstein Meredith K. , Yerramilli Divya , Christ Alexander B. , Kenan Shachar , Ogura Koichi , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Fabbri Nicola , Healey John H.
Published: March 2021

Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) of the extremities is typically treated with limb-sparing surgery and radiation therapy; with this treatment approach, high local control rates can be achieved. However, postradiation bone fractures, fractures occurring in the prior radiation field with minimal or no trauma, are a serious late complication that occurs in 2–22% of patients who receive surgery and radiation for STS. Multiple risk factors for sustaining a postradiation fracture exist, including high radiation dose, female sex, periosteal stripping, older age, femur location, and chemotherapy administration. The treatment of these pathological fractures can be difficult, with complications including delayed union, nonunion, and infection posing particular challenges. Here, we review the mechanisms, risk factors, and treatment challenges associated with postradiation fractures in STS patients.
Optimization Method of Power Equipment Maintenance Plan Decision-Making Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Yang Yanhua , Yao Ligang
Published: March 2021

The safe and reliable operation of power grid equipment is the basis for ensuring the safe operation of the power system. At present, the traditional periodical maintenance has exposed the abuses such as deficient maintenance and excess maintenance. Based on a multiagent deep reinforcement learning decision-making optimization algorithm, a method for decision-making and optimization of power grid equipment maintenance plans is proposed. In this paper, an optimization model of power grid equipment maintenance plan that takes into account the reliability and economics of power grid operation is constructed with maintenance constraints and power grid safety constraints as its constraints. The deep distributed recurrent Q-networks multiagent deep reinforcement learning is adopted to solve the optimization model. The deep distributed recurrent Q-networks multiagent deep reinforcement learning uses the high-dimensional feature extraction capabilities of deep learning and decision-making capabilities of reinforcement learning to solve the multiobjective decision-making problem of power grid maintenance planning. Through case analysis, the comparative results show that the proposed algorithm has better optimization and decision-making ability, as well as lower maintenance cost. Accordingly, the algorithm can realize the optimal decision of power grid equipment maintenance plan. The expected value of power shortage and maintenance cost obtained by the proposed method is $71.75$ $MW·H$ and $496000$ $yuan$.
Phase I/II Trial of Exemestane, Ribociclib, and Everolimus in Women with HR+/HER2− Advanced Breast Cancer after Progression on CDK4/6 Inhibitors (TRINITI-1)
Authors: Bardia Aditya , Hurvitz Sara A. , DeMichele Angela , Clark Amy S. , Zelnak Amelia , Yardley Denise A. , Karuturi Meghan , Sanft Tara , Blau Sibel , Hart Lowell , Ma Cynthia , Rugo Hope S. , Purkayastha Das , Moulder Stacy
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

Standard-of-care treatment for metastatic hormone receptor–positive (HR+), HER2-negative (HER2−) breast cancer includes endocrine therapy (ET) combined with a cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i). Optimal treatment after progression on CDK4/6i is unknown. The TRINITI-1 trial investigated ribociclib, a CDK4/6i that has recently demonstrated significant overall survival benefit in two phase III trials, in combination with everolimus and exemestane in patients with HR+, HER2− advanced breast cancer (ABC) after progression on a CDK4/6i.

Patients and Methods:

This multicenter, open-label, single-arm, phase I/II study included patients with locally advanced/metastatic HR+/HER2− breast cancer. The primary endpoint was clinical benefit rate (CBR) at week 24 among patients with ET-refractory disease with progression on a CDK4/6i. Other endpoints included safety and biomarker analysis.

Results:

Of 104 patients enrolled (phases I and II), 96 had prior CDK4/6i. Recommended phase II doses (all once daily days 1–28 of 28-day cycle) were ribociclib 300 mg, everolimus 2.5 mg, and exemestane 25 mg (group 1) and ribociclib 200 mg, everolimus 5 mg, and exemestane 25 mg (group 2). CBR among 95 efficacy-evaluable patients (phases I and II) at week 24 was 41.1% (95% confidence interval, 31.1–51.6), which met the primary endpoint (predetermined threshold: 10%). Common adverse events included neutropenia (69.2%) and stomatitis (40.4%). No new safety signals were observed; no grade 3/4 QTc prolongation was reported.

Conclusions:

Preliminary TRINITI-1 safety and efficacy results support further investigation of CDK4/6 blockade and targeting of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in patients with ET-refractory HR+/HER2− ABC after progression on a CDK4/6i.
Calicheamicin Antibody–Drug Conjugates with Improved Properties
Authors: Vollmar Breanna S. , Frantz Chris , Schutten Melissa M. , Zhong Fiona , del Rosario Geoffrey , Go Mary Ann T. , Yu Shang-Fan , Leipold Douglas D. , Kamath Amrita V. , Ng Carl , Xu Keyang , dela Cruz-Chuh Josefa , Kozak Katherine R. , Chen Jinhua , Xu Zijin , Wai John , Adhikari Pragya , Erickson Hans K. , Dragovich Peter S. , Polson Andrew G. , Pillow Thomas H.
Published: March 2021

Calicheamicin antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs) are effective therapeutics for leukemias with two recently approved in the United States: Mylotarg (gemtuzumab ozogamicin) targeting CD33 for acute myeloid leukemia and Besponsa (inotuzumab ozogamicin) targeting CD22 for acute lymphocytic leukemia. Both of these calicheamicin ADCs are heterogeneous, aggregation-prone, and have a shortened half-life due to the instability of the acid-sensitive hydrazone linker in circulation. We hypothesized that we could improve upon the heterogeneity, aggregation, and circulation stability of calicheamicin ADCs by directly attaching the thiol of a reduced calicheamicin to an engineered cysteine on the antibody via a disulfide bond to generate a linkerless and traceless conjugate. We report herein that the resulting homogeneous conjugates possess minimal aggregation and display high in vivo stability with 50% of the drug remaining conjugated to the antibody after 21 days. Furthermore, these calicheamicin ADCs are highly efficacious in mouse models of both solid tumor (HER2+ breast cancer) and hematologic malignancies (CD22+ non-Hodgkin lymphoma). Safety studies in rats with this novel calicheamicin ADC revealed an increased tolerability compared with that reported for Mylotarg. Overall, we demonstrate that applying novel linker chemistry with site-specific conjugation affords an improved, next-generation calicheamicin ADC.
BRAF V600E/V600K Mutations versus Nonstandard Alterations: Prognostic Implications and Therapeutic Outcomes
Authors: Nikanjam Mina , Tinajero Jose , Barkauskas Donald A. , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: March 2021

BRAF and MEK inhibitors are standard of care for BRAF V600E/K–mutated melanoma, but the benefit of BRAF and/or MEK inhibitors for nonstandard BRAF alterations for melanoma and other cancers is unclear. Patients with diverse malignancies whose cancers had undergone next-generation sequencing were screened for BRAF alterations. Demographics, treatment with BRAF and/or MEK inhibitors, clinical response, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were determined from review of the electronic medical records for patients with standard BRAF V600E/K versus nonstandard BRAF alterations. A total of 213 patients with BRAF alterations (87 with nonstandard alterations) were identified; OS from diagnosis was significantly worse with nonstandard BRAF versus standard alterations, regardless of therapy [HR (95% confidence interval), 0.58 (0.38–0.88); P = 0.01]. Overall, 45 patients received BRAF/MEK-directed therapy (eight with nonstandard alterations); there were no significant differences in clinical benefit rate [stable disease ≥6 months/partial/complete response (74% vs. 63%; P = 0.39) or PFS (P = 0.24; BRAF V600E/K vs. others)]. In conclusion, patients with nonstandard versus standard BRAF alterations (BRAF V600E/K) have a worse prognosis with shorter survival from diagnosis. Even so, 63% of patients with nonstandard BRAF alterations achieved clinical benefit with BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Larger prospective studies are warranted to better understand the prognostic versus predictive implication of standard versus nonstandard BRAF alterations.
The Predictive Value of Procalcitonin and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein for Early Bacterial Infections in Preterm Neonates
Authors: Naramura Tetsuo , Imamura Hiroko , Yoshimatsu Hidetaka , Hirashima Kaname , Irie Shinji , Inoue Takeshi , Tanaka Kenichi , Mitsubuchi Hiroshi , Nakamura Kimitoshi , Iwai Masanori
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Evidence on the reliability of using procalcitonin (PCT) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) as diagnostic markers for early-onset neonatal bacterial infections is still insufficient because of their physiological elevation during the early neonatal period. This study aimed to assess the respiratory influence of serum PCT and hs-CRP levels and evaluate their predictive value for bacterial infections during the first 72 h of life in preterm neonates. Methods: The preterm neonates enrolled in this single-center retrospective cohort study were categorized into 3 groups: reference, infection-unlikely respiratory failure, and probable bacterial infection; their serum PCT and hs-CRP levels were assessed. Subsequently, age-specific 95th percentile curves were plotted and the median and cutoff PCT and hs-CRP levels for predicting bacterial infections at birth and 7–18, 19–36, and 37–72 h after birth were determined. Moreover, the analysis of PCT and hs-CRP with a neonatal sequential organ failure assessment (nSOFA) score was performed in very low birth weight neonates. Results: Serum PCT levels were influenced by respiratory failure. A significant difference was found in the median PCT and hs-CRP levels among the 3 groups at each time point. PCT sensitivities for predicting bacterial infection were slightly higher than those of hs-CRP in each time frame during the first 72 h of life. In both PCT and hs-CRP, there was no significant difference between infants with nSOFA scores of >4 and those with nSOFA scores of ≤4. Discussion/Conclusion: Age-specific evaluation showed that PCT has better predictive value than hs-CRP for early-onset bacterial infections in preterm neonates.
Excessive Orthostatic Changes in Blood Pressure Are Associated With Incident Heart Failure in Older Men
Authors: Gilani Artaza , De Caterina Raffaele , Papacosta Olia , Lennon Lucy T. , Whincup Peter H. , Wannamethee S. Goya
Published: March 2021

We have assessed the association between excessive orthostatic changes in blood pressure and risk of incident heart failure (HF) in older, community-dwelling men. This was a prospective cohort study of 3505 men (mean age, 68.5 years), who did not have prevalent HF, myocardial infarction, or stroke. Excessive orthostatic change in blood pressure was defined continuously and categorically as orthostatic hypotension (sitting-to-standing decrease in systolic blood pressure ≥20 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥10 mm Hg), systolic orthostatic hypertension (increase in systolic blood pressure ≥20 mm Hg, diastolic orthostatic hypertension as diastolic blood pressure ≥10 mm Hg), and orthostatic normotension (neither orthostatic hypotension nor orthostatic hypertension). There was a U-shaped association between orthostatic changes in systolic blood pressure and the risk of incident HF; for diastolic blood pressure, only its fall predicted HF. After adjustment for possible confounders, the hazard ratio (95% CI) for incident HF was 1.65 (1.24–2.18) in men with orthostatic hypotension and 0.90 (0.65–1.24) and 1.88 (1.30–2.73) in men with diastolic and systolic orthostatic hypertension, respectively. Both components of orthostatic hypotension were associated with increased risk, although the systolic component was more predictive than the diastolic component. Both orthostatic hypotension and orthostatic hypertension are associated with risk of incident HF in older men. Our findings suggest that orthostatic hypertension is defined by a rise beyond threshold in systolic blood pressure only. Further prospective studies in diverse cohorts are needed to confirm our findings.
Higher-Quality Data Collection Is Critical to Establish the Safety and Efficacy of Pediatric Mechanical Thrombectomy
Authors: Barry Megan , Barry Dwight , Kansagra Akash P. , Hallam Danial , Abraham Michael , Amlie-Lefond Catherine , Bernard Timothy , Dlaimini Noma , Dowling Michael , Felling Ryan , Grabowski Eric , Ichord Rebecca , Jordan Lori , Kirton Adam , Lee Sarah , Mackay Mark , McMillan Hugh , Rivkin Michael J.
Published: March 2021

Background and Purpose:

Because children often have lifelong morbidity after stroke, there is considerable enthusiasm to pursue mechanical thrombectomy in childhood stroke based on literature reports. However, current published data may reflect inconsistent reporting and publication bias, which limit the ability to assess safety and efficacy of mechanical thrombectomy in childhood stroke.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study compared reporting quality and clinical outcomes for mechanical thrombectomy between a trial-derived cohort of 42 children treated with mechanical thrombectomy for acute stroke at study sites and 133 patients reported in the literature. National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale at baseline, 24 hours after mechanical thrombectomy, and at discharge were compared between study site patients and literature patients. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to compare reporting frequencies. Proportional odds logistic regression was used to compare outcomes.

Results:

Premechanical thrombectomy National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was available in 93% of study patients compared with 74% of patients in the literature (OR, 4.42 [95% CI, 1.47–19.89]). Postmechanical thrombectomy National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was available in 69% of study patients compared with 29% of literature cases at 24 hours (OR, 5.48 [95% CI, 2.62–12.06]), and 64% of study patients compared with 32% of cases at discharge (OR, 3.85 [95% CI, 1.87–8.19]). For study sites, median scores were 12 at baseline, 9 at 24 hours, and 5 at discharge. Median scores in case reports were 15 at baseline, 4 at 24 hours, and 3 at discharge. ORs for differences in outcomes between groups were 5.97 (95% CI, 2.28–15.59) at 24 hours and 3.68 (95% CI, 1.45–9.34) at discharge.

Conclusions:

Study site patients had higher rates of National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale reporting and worse short-term outcomes compared with literature reports. Rigorous data collection is needed before treatment guidelines for pediatric mechanical thrombectomy can be developed.
On Inter-State Litigation and Armed Conflict Cases in Strasbourg
Authors: Leach Philip
Published: March 2021

The reluctance of Council of Europe member states to challenge each other at the bar of Europe, through the litigation of inter-state cases at the European Court, used to be a regular feature of the Strasbourg system. However, conflicts of different kinds in eastern Europe have led to a surge of such cases in recent years, as well as the introduction of thousands of related individual applications. The serious challenges presented, in particular by conflict-related cases, have led some commentators to question whether they can feasibly remain part of the Strasbourg process. For others, the focus should rather be on how such cases can be more effectively processed and assessed. This article emphasises the significance of both inter-state cases in general, and of cases arising from armed conflict (including individual applications): their political and legal importance; their centrality to the European human rights system; and how vital they are for individual victims of human rights violations. It analyses a number of controversial or challenging aspects of the adjudication of these cases, and puts forward some proposals for reform.
Screening of Electrolyte Complexes Formed Between Dextran Sulfate and Amine Structures of Small-Molecule Drugs
Authors: Choi Seung Ah , Park Eun Ji , Kim Young Hun , Jee Jun-Pil , Kim Sung-Tae , Jang Dong-Jin , Min Kyung Ah , Cho Kwan Hyung
Published: March 2021

Formation of an electrolyte complex using the electrostatic interactions between a polyanionic polymer and a cationic drug is a simple and efficient method of preparing a colloidal drug carrier system. Dextran sulfate, with a negatively charged sulfate group, was reacted in an acetate
buffer solution of pH 3 with positively charged 1° amine, 2° amine, 3° amine, piperazine, and piperidine structures from 24 small-molecule drugs. The electrolyte complex was formed from 15 drugs, 63% of those tested. The tendency to form the electrolyte complex was in the order
of piperazine and piperidine >3° amine >>2° amine. The drugs with the 1° amine structure failed to form an electrolyte complex. The mean particle sizes were in the range of 50-740 nm, and most of them showed a submicron colloidal dispersion of <400 nm. Regarding drug
encapsulation efficiency (%), 11 drugs with piperazine, piperidine, and 3° amine structures showed 60–98% efficiency, which was fairly high. The results suggest that directly forming the electrolyte complex with dextran sulfate yields promising structural attributes as a submicron
colloidal drug carrier system.
Methanol Extract of Mongolian Iris bungei Maxim. Stimulates 3T3-L1 Adipocyte Differentiation
Authors: Yeon Jaegoo , Suh Sung-Suk , Youn Ui-Joung , Bazarragchaa Badamtsetseg , Enebish Ganbold , Seo Jong Bae
Published: March 2021

Iris bungei Maxim. (IB), which is native to China and Mongolia, is used as a traditional medicine for conditions such as inflammation, cancer, and bacterial infections. However, the effects of Iris bungei Maxim. on adipocyte differentiation have not been studied. In the
present study, we first demonstrated the molecular mechanisms underlying the adipogenic activity of the methanol extract of Mongolian I. bungei Maxim. (IB). IB significantly enhanced intracellular lipid accumulation and adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in a concentration-dependent
manner. Moreover, IB markedly stimulated the expression of genes related to adipogenesis such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, adiponectin, and aP2. In addition, we also observed that IB induces lipogenic genes such as fatty acid synthase, sterol regulatory element
binding protein 1c, stearoyl-CoA desaturase, and acetyl-CoA carboxylase. Interestingly IB regulated adipocyte differentiation in both the early and middle stages. Taken together, these adipogenic and lipogenic effects of IB suggest its efficacy for the prevention and/or treatment of type 2
diabetes.
Topical Delivery of Nanosized Hydroxycitric Acid Enriched Extract-Loaded Ethosomes for Suppression of Lipid Droplet Deposition
Authors: Lim Hana , Kwon Do-Eun , Park Phil June , Bin Bum-Ho , Kim Seong-Bo , Park Sang Yeob , Cho Kwan Hyung , Jang Dong-Jin , Kim Sung Tae
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to improve the skin accumulation of hydroxycitric acid by using ethosomes with nanosize. We fabricated nanosized ethosome for the topical delivery of hydrophilic hydroxycitric acid and evaluated their physical properties and furthermore cytotoxicity. As results,
in cell-based experiments, the use of ethosomes encapsulating hydroxycitric acid extract reduced the lipid droplet deposition in differentiated adipocytes, which was visualized by Oil Red O staining assay and also quantitatively measured by a triglyceride assay. The observed reduction in lipid
droplet deposition occurred in a hydroxycitric acid extract concentration-dependent manner. In addition, the high accumulation of hydroxycitric acid in murine skin (66.28%) was observed following treatment with hydroxycitric acid extract-loaded ethosomes compared with treatment with hydroxycitric
acid alone (1.19%) without ethosome as a nanocarrier. Based on these results, our findings showed that nanosized ethosomes improved the topical delivery of hydroxycitric acid and thus reduced lipid droplet deposition in adipocytes.
Preparation and Drug Release Behavior of Nifedipine-Loaded Poly(lactic acid)/Polyethylene Glycol Microcapsules
Authors: Jeong Heeseok , Lim Hyunju , Lee Deuk Yong , Song Yo-Seung , Kim Bae-Yeon
Published: March 2021

Nifedipine (NF)-loaded poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and PLA/polyethylene glycol (PLA/PEG) microcapsules are synthesized using a high-speed agitator and a syringe pump with an oil-in-water emulsion-solvent evaporation technique to evaluate the effect of PLA/PEG ratio on morphology and drug
release behavior of the capsules. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) results indicate that PEG reacts successfully with PLA due to the ether bond between PEG and PLA. The drug release rate of PLA and PLA/PEG
capsules increases dramatically from 0 to 5 min and then reaches a plateau within 15 to 20 min. Due to the high specific surface area, the amount of NF released is raised by reducing the PLA concentration from 5 wt% to 2 wt%. Unlike PLA capsules, the drug release rate of PLA/PEG capsules increases
due to the size effect by varying the PLA/PEG ratio from 10/0 to 6/4. Larger PLA/PEG capsules are attributed to higher amounts of encapsulated NF. The capsules show no evidence of cytotoxicity, suggesting that the PLA and PLA/PEG drug carriers are clinically safe.
Cellular Effects of Ultraviolet-Radiated Reduced-Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on Human Hypopharyngeal Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Trang N. T. K. , Dong V. P. , Yoo Hoon
Published: March 2021

The cellular effects of ultraviolet (UV)-radiated reduced-titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were investigated on human hypopharyngeal adenocarcinoma cells (FaDu). In 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, the viability of FaDu cells
exposed to UV (254 nm) for 10 minutes, in the presence of reduced-TiO2 nanoparticles in rutile, was dose- and time-dependently decreased. The UV-radiated reduced-TiO2 suppressed the cell proliferation by inhibiting the expression of cell cycle kinase, cyclin dependent
kinase 2 (Cdk2), and its functional regulators Cyclin E and Cyclin B1 as well as proliferation-regulating proteins of p85 regulatory sub-unit of phosphoinositide3-kinases (PI3K p85), phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT/p-PKB) and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR). In
addition, the mitochondria disintegration and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage were confirmed by detecting the accumulated Bax in cytoplasm, phosphorylated-H2A histone family member X (γ-H2AX) in chromosomes and phosphorylated checkpoint 2 (p-Chk2). Our results support that UV-activated
reduced-TiO2 in rutile sensitized UV-induced proliferation suppression of FaDu cancer cells by the enhanced photocat-alytic activity.
Surface Activity and Emulsifying Effect of Non-Toxic Starch Nanocrystal
Authors: Hwang Young-Ha , Cho Kwan Hyung , Kim Hye-In , Kim Hee-Cheol , Kim Sung Tae , Lee Jeong Gi , Cheon Se Hyeop , Choi Se-Hee , Park Hye Jin , Jang Ji-Won , Choi Sung-Up , Lee Kooyeon , Park Sang Yeob , Jang Dong-Jin
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the surface activity of starch nanocrystals (SNC), material derived from starch, and confirm their usefulness as a surfactant. In order to evaluate the surface activity, the surface tension change of suspended SNC solution via the Wilhelmy
plate method was measured and the values were compared with various synthetic surfactants. The effect of SNC as emulsifier was evaluated on emulsion formation and physical stability. The surface tension of the SNC-dispersed solution was decreased while its concentration was increased. When
the 5.0% (w/v) of SNC was added, the surface tension was decreased from 70.3 to 49.5 mN/m. It was confirmed that the physical stability of the emulsion prepared by adding the SNC was improved compared to that of surface inactivity material (PEG 400). The phase separation was observed within
1 hour after preparation of the emulsion containing PEG 400, but the emulsion containing SNC was stable for 5 hours or more. To summarize this study, SNC, a natural-derived and non-toxic material, exhibits sufficient surface activity, thereby confirming the possibility of being applied to
the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Development of Antimicrobial MgO–CuO/Activated Carbon Fiber
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Ngoc , Bui Vu Khac Hoang , Lee Young-Chul
Published: March 2021

Activated carbon fiber (ACF) is widely used as an adsorption fiber in air purification systems. In this study, MgO and CuO nanoparticles were immobilized on ACF with enhancement of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES). The obtained fibers’ coating efficiency, structural deformation,
and antimicrobial activities were investigated. The MgO–CuO/APTES/ACF fiber (DA-MC) sample showed high antimicrobial activity (<90%) against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus after 24-hour treatment. DA-MC also showed the highest coating efficiency, with
no observed structural deformation. The presence of APTES and curing step at high temperature is believed to increase the coating efficiency and thus result in the high antimicrobial activity and also protect the ACF from deformation.
Catalytic Performance of Supported Bimetallic Catalysts for Complete Oxidation of Toluene
Authors: Jung Sang-Chul , Park Young-Kwon , Jung Ho-Young , Kim Sang Chai
Published: March 2021

The complete oxidation of toluene (as a model volatile organic compound) was studied to determine the influence of adding a transition metal (Mn, Cr, Fe, Co, and Ni) to the 5 Cu/Al catalyst. The physcochemical properties of the catalysts were characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller
(BET) surface area analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, field emission transmission electron microscopy (FE/TEM), and hydrogen temperature programmed reduction (H2-TPR). The catalytic activity of the supported bimetallic catalysts followed the order: 5Cu-5Mn/Al > 5Cu-5Cr/Al
> 5Cu-5Fe/Al > 5Cu-5Co/Al > 5Cu > 5Cu-5Ni/Al, based on the temperature for T90 of toluene conversion (T90). Two different reaction mechanisms (mixing and the synergistic effect) were operative in the supported bimetallic catalysts except for the 5Cu–5Mn/Al
and 5Cu–5Ni/Al catalysts, on the basis of the reaction temperature. The difference between the electronegativity of copper and the added transition metal was associated with the catalytic activity.
Emulsification of Catalytic Pyrolysis Oil from Nanoporous Zeolite Socony Mobil-5 with Diesel Using a Range of Emulsifiers in an Ultrasonicator
Authors: Farooq Abid , Park Young-Kwon
Published: March 2021

Catalytic pyrolysis oil (CPO) was produced from lignin using the ex-situ mechanism and nanoporous HZSM-5 (SiO2/Al2O3 = 50) as a catalyst. The oil contained phenolics, esters, acids, and benzene derivatives as the major constituents. The emulsification
of CPO in diesel was tested with several emulsifier combinations such as Span 80 and Tween 60, Span 80 and Atlox 4916, and Atlox 4916 and Zephrym PD3315 in the HLB range of 5.8–7.3. The HLB value of 5.8 using the combination of Span 80 and Atlox 4916 and the CPO:emulsifier:diesel ratio
of 5:2:93 (wt%), provided a stable emulsion for 10 days. The physiochemical properties of that emulsion were comparable to diesel. Hence, emulsions of CPO and diesel can potentially be used as a diesel engine fuel.
Comparison of Immobilization Methods for TiO2-Embedded Expanded Polystyrene Balls and Growth Inhibition of Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Joo Jin Chul , Kim Ga Young , Lee Min Ji , Ahn Chae Min , Lee Won Tae , Kim Jong Kyu
Published: March 2021

Two immobilization methods (i.e., ice water-soaked using a digital temperature controller vs. freeze-dried using liquid nitrogen) were applied for mass production techniques of TiO2-embedded expanded polystyrene (TiEPS) balls with nanoscale TiO2 particles embedded
on EPS balls. No significant changes in crystalline structure of TiO2 nanoparticles embedded on the TiEPS balls were observed during the mass production of TiEPS balls. Greater residuals of freeze-dried TiEPS balls suggested the improved immobilization methods for mass production
procedures of TiEPS balls. Although similar growth inhibition between TiEPS balls using two immobilization methods was observed within 10 hrs, both growth and reproduction of M. aeruginosa can be more significantly inhibited by applying the freeze-dried TiEPS balls after 10 hrs. These
results were mainly attributed to the difference in exposed surface area of embedded TiO2 nanoparticles which generated various reactive oxygen species peroxidizing and leading to the inactivation and degradation of M. aeruginosa. Relatively greater k value (0.207
day-1) was estimated from freeze-dried TiEPS balls than that (0.089 day-1) from ice water-soaked TiEPS balls, suggesting that both growth and reproduction of M. aeruginosa were effectively inhibited with greater amounts of reactive oxygen species generated from
freeze-dried TiEPS balls. Consequently, self-floating freeze-dried TiEPS balls can be readily applied to inhibit the excessive growth of harmful algae in the stagnant water body without the recovery process for long time.
Synthesis of Cadmium Telluride Nanoparticles Using Thioglycolic Acid, Thioglycerol, and L-Cysteine
Authors: Jo Insol , Kang Jeong Won , Kim Ki-Sub
Published: March 2021

Cadmium telluride (CdTe) nanoparticles (NPs) are known for their unique physical and chemical properties. NP synthesis via a size-controlled procedure has become an intriguing research topic because NPs exhibit novel optical and physical properties depending on their size. Their sizes
and properties can vary depending on the types and concentrations of stabilizers, which are bound to the surface of the NPs and protect the NPs from aggregation. In this study, we synthesized CdTe NPs stabilized by thioglycolic acid (TGA), 1-thioglycerol (TGC), and L-cysteine (L-C). The ratio
of stabilizer to Cd2+ was 1:2.4. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and photoluminescence (PL) were employed for characterization of the NPs. The average sizes of the synthesized NPs were 4.2, 4.1, and 3.7 nm for TGA, TGC, and L-C, respectively. The
maximum fluorescent emission peaks of the three NP solutions were at 554.9, 551.6, and 538.3 nm for TGA, TGC, and L-C, respectively. The produced particles were crystalline in structure with a face-centered cubic (fcc) system.
Synthesis and Characterization of Reactive Energetic Plasticizers for Poly(glycidyl azide-co-tetramethylene glycol)-Based Polyurethane Binders
Authors: Shen Yechen , Kwon Younghwan
Published: March 2021

Two reactive energetic plasticizers, 3-((2,2-dinitropropoxy)methoxy)prop-1-yne and 4-((2,2-dinitropropoxy)methoxy)but-1-yne which can react with an azido-containing poly(glycidyl azide-co-tetramethylene glycol) prepolymer by cupper-free 1,3-dipolor cycloaddition (“Click”)
reaction, were synthesized and characterized, in order to investigate their plasticizing performance and catalyst-free 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reactivity on energetic polyurethane binders. Two reactive energetic plasticizers showed better plasticizing performance than commercial energetic
plasticizers. In the reactivity point of view, 3-((2,2-dinitropropoxy)methoxy)prop-1-yne exhibited higher Click reactivity than 4-((2,2-dinitropropoxy)methoxy)but-1-yne. Two synthesized plasticizers were found to fulfill the requirements for use as reactive energetic plasticizers.
Removal of Cr by Modified Biochar Derived from Corn Husk
Authors: Kim Hyungjoo , Cha Jin Sun , Park Jieun , Kim Young-Min , Park Young-Kwon
Published: March 2021

In this study, the physicochemical properties of modified biochar using different methods, such as physical (CO2, steam) and chemical (KOH and H3PO4) methods, were estimated by X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption-desorption, field-emission scanning
electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The performance of chars was evaluated using a Cr adsorption performance test. Among various chars modified in this study, CHC-P modified by H3PO4 showed
the highest chromium adsorption efficiency. The adsorption efficiency was affected by the high nano-porosity, large surface area, and surface oxygen-containing functional groups.
C-Reactive Protein Sensor Based on Porous Silicon Bragg Stack Interferometers
Authors: Koh Kyungkuk , Sohn Honglae
Published: March 2021

Bio-functionalized nanomaterials represent the cutting-edge research for a sensing biomolecules in nano-systems. Their physicochemical properties of porous silicon bring along advantages in sensing applications. Here, a modified biosensor based on the anti-C-reactive protein-modified
porous silicon Bragg stack interferometer was developed to detect C-reactive protein. The SEM images of the surface and cross-sectional views of the Bragg stack porous silicon exhibited the pore sizes in the 10–20 nm range. The fabrication, optical characterization, and surface derivatization
of the interferometer were also reported. This sensor was assessed by measuring the reflection peaks in the white light reflection spectrum. As a result, molecular binding was detected as a shift in the wavelength of these reflection peaks. In addition, a dramatic decrease in the reflectivity
was observed in the reflectivity spectrum within 10 s, thereby indicating a C-reactive protein detection limit of 100 pM.
Effect of Cobalt Oxides on the Catalytic Combustion of Odor
Authors: Yoon Hyung-Sun , Seo Seong-Gyu
Published: March 2021

The catalytic combustion of acetaldehyde was studied using various types of Co oxides and Co-PC. The Co oxides and Co-PC were characterized using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD), X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS), and a particle sizing analyzer. The Co-PC and CoO were converted
into Co3O4 under an air atmosphere at 450 °C, and the results were confirmed using the XRD and XPS. According to the pretreatment of the Co-PC and Co oxides, the conversion of acetaldehyde increased. The order of particle size for both fresh and pretreated samples
is summarized as follows: CoO < Co-PC < Co3O4 powder < Co3O4 (99.995%). For all samples, acetaldehyde was not observed at temperatures above 320 °C owing to complete combustion. The conversion of acetaldehyde in the samples was affected by the fresh state
of the Co oxides and the space velocity. The catalytic activity depended on the chemical state of the Co oxides and the surface concentrations of Co, O, and N.