bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Schiff Bases Including Three Hydroxy Groups and Their CoCl2, PdCl2, CuCl2 and ZnCl2 Complexes
Authors: Alterhoni Elham , Tavman Aydin , Gürbüz Demet , Hacioglu Mayram , Çinarli Adem , Şahin Onur , Tan A. Seher Birteksöz
Published: August 2020

Four Schiff bases, (3/4/2/4)‐{[(2‐hydroxy‐5‐methylphenyl)imino]methyl}benzene‐1,2/1,3/1,4/1,2‐diols (H3L1‐H3L4), derived from 2,3/2,4/2,5/3,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehydes and 2‐amino‐4‐methylphenol, and their CoCl2, PdCl2, CuCl2 and ZnCl2 complexes were synthesized and characterized. The structures of the complexes were suggested on the basis of elemental analysis, TGA, molar conductivity, magnetic moment, FT‐IR, UV‐vis and NMR spectroscopy. According to the analytical and spectral data, the ligands H3L1, H3L2 and H3L3 acted as tridentate, giving chelate structures in the complexes, via the C=N nitrogen and two phenolate oxygen atoms whereas H3L4 acted as bidentate. In addition, the crystal structure of H3L1 was determined by X‐ray diffraction. The spectral data show that there is keto‐enol tautomerization in the ligands and keto form is dominant in H3L1 and H3L3 while enol form is in H3L2 and H3L4. Antimicrobial activities of the compounds were tested against six bacteria and three fungi. [Zn(H2L1)Cl]⋅4H2O showed superior activity toward the fungi C. albicans, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis compared to H3L1 and the other compounds. Strong activity of H3L1, H3L2 and H3L3 was observed toward S. aureus whereas they showed weak activity to the other microorganisms.
Photocatalytic Performance Analysis of Bi2WO6 Modified with CdSe Quantum Dots in Different Solvents
Authors: Chen Zhengguang , Zhang Zuowei , Hao Hongshun , Zhu Liangliang , Ding Chao , Zhang Gongliang , Bi Jingran , Yan Shuang , Liu Guishan , Hou Hongman
Published: August 2020

Bi2WO6 modified with CdSe quantum dots (QDs) was synthesized in different solvents. Among these prepared photocatalysts, CdSe‐Acetone‐Bi2WO6 demonstrated the best photocatalytic performance as tested by degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). Moreover, three‐time degradation tests proved that CdSe‐Acetone‐Bi2WO6 had a good photocatalytic stability. The photoluminescence spectroscopy and electrochemical test showed that the recombination of electron hole pairs of CdSe‐Acetone‐Bi2WO6 decreased most obviously, which was consistent with the photocatalytic results.
The Nonapeptide RWQWRWQWR: A Promising Molecule for Breast Cancer Therapy
Authors: Barragán‐Cárdenas Andrea , Insuasty‐Cepeda Diego Sebastián , Niño‐Ramírez Victor Alfonso , Umaña‐Pérez Adriana , Ochoa‐Zarzosa Alejandra , López‐Meza Joel E. , Rivera‐Monroy Zuly Jenny , García‐Castañeda Javier Eduardo
Published: August 2020

The palindromic nonapeptide H‐1RWQWRWQWR9‐NH2 (LfcinB (21–25)Pal) was synthetize and scaled following the good manufacturing practices (GMP) guidelines to obtained batches up to 1 g of pure peptide which evidencing their synthetic viability. Its cytotoxic effect was tested against breast cancer cell lines MDA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7 and was dependent on concentration against both. The IC50 values were 135 μM and 66 μM, respectively. Against MCF‐7 the peptide exerts its greater cytotoxic effect at 135 μM, diminishing their cell viability to 21%. Furthermore, the palindromic peptide did not exhibit a significant cytotoxic effect against the nontumorigenic cells MCF‐12, BMEC (bovine mammary epithelial cells) or fibroblast, which confirms its selectivity. The cancerous cells treated at 135 μM for 2 h exhibited morphological changes like cellular shrinkage and rounded forms. Trough flow cytometry assays we evidence that 73% of the events were related to late apoptosis, and cells that exhibited mitochondrial membrane depolarization also had an increase in the relative expression of caspase‐3. Our results suggest that the LfcinB (21–25)Pal peptide has a cytotoxic effect against MCF‐7 mainly through apoptotic events which makes it a promising candidate for therapeutic agent.
In‐situ Generated Ultra‐High Dispersion Sulfur 3D‐Graphene Foam for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Sulfur Batteries with High Cell‐Level Energy Density
Authors: Zhu Ruichen , Liu Fangchao , Li Wenyan , Fu Zhengwen
Published: August 2020

In this study, we prepared a free‐standing ultra‐high dispersion sulfur three‐dimensional graphene (S‐3DG) foam by a simple in‐situ synthesis method. The HRTEM and SAED test of the discharged and charged products showed reversible conversion of Li2S and S during cycling. All‐solid‐state Li−S batteries with 55% sulfur content can reach initial discharge capacity of 1680 mAh g−1 at 1/16 C and 410 mAh g−1 at 4 C. And the capacity was about 450 mAh g−1 after 20 times cycling tested at 1/8 C. Moreover, Li−S batteries with 80% sulfur loading (8 mg/cm2) exhibited a superior cell‐level energy density of 588.8 Wh kg−1.
Prediction of Thermal Properties and Reliability Testing of Binary Eutectic Mixture of Polyethylene Glycol 2000 and 10000 as Phase Change Materials
Authors: Ansu Alok K. , Sharma Ravi K. , Tyagi Vineet V. , Tripathi Dharmendra
Published: August 2020

This experimental investigation presents the two major aspects of thermal energy storage materials. One is development of eutectic mixtures of polyethylene glycols (PEGs) and another is thermal reliability of them. The commercial grade PEGs with molecular mass 2000 and 10000 were mixed in different mass fractions via facile incorporation method for preparing the eutectic mixtures. The thermal energy storage capacity was measured by using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and Fourier transform and infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) was adopted to analyse the variation in chemical compositions of eutectics. The eutectics were prepared in the step of 10% mass fraction and characterization show that the mixture of 20% PEG 2000 and 80% PEG 10000 possess the maximum latent heat of fusion, which is 185 kJ/kg. The prepared eutectic mixture was also tested for its durability by in‐house designed thermal cycling tester. The results revealed that this eutectic is able to retain its thermal and chemical properties even after 1500 melting and freezing cycles. The findings of this study show that the prepared binary eutectics are able to be used as potential candidates for passive solar thermal management purposes.
Deposition of a ZnO Nanolayer on TiO2 Nanorods Nanoarrays with Tailored Thickness towards Boosted Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production Activity
Authors: Chen Jianwu , Yang Yueping , Song Kai , Xu Shang , Zhang Tian , Hou Huilin
Published: August 2020

In this study, one‐dimensional (1D) core‐shell structured TiO2@ZnO nanorod arrays have been synthesised by means of a simple hydrothermal method combining with subsequently ZnO atomic layer deposition (ALD). It was found that the thickness of the ZnO shell layers can be finely controlled with 20 nm, 30 nm, 40 nm and 50 nm by simply varying the deposition times. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting tests demonstrate that the TiO2@ZnO samples with 30 nm of ZnO layer yielded the highest photocurrent density of 1.24 mA/cm2 upon AM 1.5 illumination, which was about 1.55 times higher than that of pristine TiO2. The improved PEC activity is due to the enhanced interfacial charge‐separation and transportation based on the type II heterojunction as well as the unique 1D core‐shell structure.
Time‐Dependent Binding of Molecules and Nanoparticles at Receptor‐Modified Supported Lipid Bilayer Gradients in a Microfluidic Device
Authors: Overeem Nico J. , Hamming Pieter H. (Erik) , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: August 2020

Microfluidic devices are widely used for the sensing of small quantities of analytes. In these applications, the measurement can be easily perturbed by loss of analyte due to binding of the analyte outside the sensing area. We studied the binding of small molecules and nanoparticles up to 400 nm in a state‐of‐the‐art sensing platform – receptor gradients on supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) – in a microfluidic device over time. Biotin‐streptavidin was used as the model interaction motif for specific binding and a biotin‐modified dye, which can bind to the streptavidin on the SLB, as a small‐molecule model analyte. We used finite element simulations to show that the time‐dependent binding of analytes in the sensing area depends strongly on the extent of the nonspecific binding of the vesicles, used in a preceding step to make the SLB platform, outside of the sensing area (e. g., in the tubing). At sufficiently high flow rates, proteins and nanoparticles were only partially depleted by nonspecifically adsorbed lipids, and no delayed onset of binding was observed, because of their lower diffusion coefficients. As a practical solution, a flow cell with two inlets was used to avoid the presence of nonspecifically adsorbed receptors in the sample inlet, which allowed us to decouple the formation of the sensor layer on the surface from the subsequent sensing event. We found that in the absence of lipids adsorbed to the tubing, the nonspecific binding of dye molecules was negligible.
Synthesis of Calcite Superstructures Using Water Reducer as Adjuster
Authors: Liu Yuxi , Xu Huanhuan , Wu Gang
Published: August 2020

The precipitation of calcium carbonate from solutions was synthesized at different temperature using CaCl2 and Na2CO3 as raw materials and with poly(acrylic acid‐allyl glycol ether) water reducer as adjuster. The resulted solids were further characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy(SEM) to investigate the structural property and morphology without and in the presence of adding the poly(acrylic acid‐allyl glycol ether). The results exhibited that when poly(acrylic acid‐allyl glycol ether) was in the presence of reaction system, the calcite CaCO3 microcrystals could be generated with different morphology and size at different temperature. And the concentration of the water reducer used for crystallization could significantly control the morphology and dimensions of the precipitated crystals. As a consequence, the water reducer poly(acrylic acid‐allyl glycol ether) can facilitate and stabilize the formation of calcite.
Diastereoselective Synthesis of Coumarin‐Based Fused Heterocycles via Intramolecular Diels‐Alder and 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Alizadeh Abdolali , Farajpour Behnaz , Amir Ashjaee Asalemi Kaveh , Taghipour Sajad
Published: August 2020

In this work, a two‐steps strategy for the synthesis of novel coumarin‐based fused heterocycles is presented. The strategy involved i) initial nucleophilic substitution / intramolecular Diels‐Alder reaction of furfurylamine with 4‐chloro‐3‐vinylcoumarins followed by ii) base‐mediated 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction of resultant coumarin‐based bicyclic products with dibromoformaldoxime. The methodology provides a straightforward access to compounds containing the coumarin, isoquinoline, and isoxazole motifs in a single molecular entity in satisfactory yields. The reaction proceeded with remarkable diastereoselectivity that leads to the formation of five new bonds and six new stereogenic centres. Furthermore, the observed diastereoselectivity was analysed with the help of DFT calculations to substantiate the thermodynamic stability of the obtained products.
Enteric Coating Systems for the Oral Administration of Bioactive Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles Carrying Nucleic Acids into the Colon
Authors: Hosseini Shabnam , Wey Karolin , Epple Matthias
Published: August 2020

A system to deliver bioactive calcium phosphate nanoparticles (about 60 nm, loaded with nucleic acids) across the stomach into the colon was developed by freeze‐drying the nanoparticles in the presence of the cryoprotectant trehalose, incorporation into gelatin capsules, and coating the capsules with an enteric polymer. These capsules were stable at pH 1 (stomach conditions) and dissolved at pH 7.1 (colon conditions). The nanoparticles were released after about 60–120 min at pH 7.1. Cell culture experiments with HeLa and Caco‐2 cells showed an uptake of the nanoparticles, a transfection with EGFP‐encoding plasmid DNA, and a gene‐silencing with anti‐EGFP siRNA. From a variety of enteric coating polymers, the systems cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose‐Eudragit L100, and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose‐polyvinylalcohol‐Eudragit L100 were the most suitable to accomplish the desired biological effect. The presented method is applicable for colon therapy, e. g. for an oral administration of bioactive nanoparticles which are sensitive to acidic conditions.
Emerging Advances of Cell‐Free Systems toward Artificial Cells
Authors: Zhu Yi , Guo Xiaocui , Liu Jinqiao , Li Feng , Yang Dayong
Published: August 2020

Artificial cells that mimic the architectural and functional characteristics of living cells not only shed light on the physical principle of life but also facilitate development in the areas such as cell engineering and biomedicine. Cell‐free systems carry out the central dogma that refers to the transcription and translation in the absence of living cells, offering a simplified and controllable platform to study cellular biological processes and design principle. Many efforts have been devoted to construct artificial cells by using cell‐free systems with mimicking cellular structures and characteristics, such as molecular crowding, compartments, gene noise, network, dynamic behavior, and cell communication. Here, the recent emerging advances of cell‐free system toward artificial cells are summarized and discussed. It is notable that this area involves multidisciplinary fields such as material chemistry, nanotechnology, and molecular biology. Although there are still much difficulties and challenges for bottom‐up designing systems with desirable properties for cells, it is firmly believed that with the development of synthetic biology, artificial cells based on the cell‐free systems will provide more possibilities to mimic the complex structures and behaviors of cells.
Motivationale Faktoren im Wirkungskontext von Forschendem Lernen
Authors: Wulf Carmen , Thiem Janina , Gess Christopher
Published: August 2020

In der Diskussion um Forschendes Lernen wird davon ausgegangen, dass es einerseits ein besonders geeignetes Format zur Förderung unterschiedlicher (Forschungs- und Schlüssel-)Kompetenzen darstellt, andererseits dieses Format aber in enger Verbindung zur Ausprägung der Lern- und Forschungsmotivation Studierender steht. Im Beitrag wird der Förderung von kognitiven und affektiv-motivationalen Forschungskompetenzen sowie der allgemeinen autonomen (Lern-)Motivation durch ein Format Forschendes Lernens in einem Prä-Post-Kontrollgruppendesign nachgegangen und Zusammenhänge zwischen Kompetenzveränderung und Motivation geprüft.
Forschendes Lernen in der ersten Phase der Lehrkräftebildung
Authors: Spies Anke , Knapp Katja
Published: August 2020

Diese qualitativ-explorative Studie evaluiert, wie Erfahrungen aus dem Forschenden Lernen im Lehramtsstudium nach Berufseintritt unter anderem im Hinblick auf berufspraktische Relevanz rekonstruiert werden. Es zeigt sich, dass die mit Forschendem Lernen verbundenen Erwartungen im Kontrast zum professionellen Selbstverständnis nach der Berufseinmündung stehen und die für eine aktive forschend-evaluative Mitwirkung an Schulentwicklungsprozessen nötigen strukturellen Voraussetzungen in der Praxis nicht gegeben sind.
Forschendes Lernen im Lehramt
Authors: Saunders Constanze , Gess Christopher , Lehmann Malte
Published: August 2020

Forschendes Lernen wird derzeit in der Ausbildung von Lehramtsstudierenden häufig hinsichtlich seiner Begründungen und Umsetzungspraktiken diskutiert, allerdings weist das Thema in Bezug auf Wirkungen noch Forschungsbedarf auf. Im Beitrag wird daher ein Instrument vorgestellt, mit dem studentische Meinungen zu den Rollen bildungswissenschaftlicher Theorien, eigener Forschung und der Reflexion für die eigene Lehrpraxis erfasst und so Haltungsveränderungen im Rahmen forschungsorientierter Hochschullehre im Lehramt erforscht werden können.
Forschendes Lernen als Studiengangsprofil – was meint dies konkret?
Authors: Kaufmann Margrit E. , Koch Henning
Published: August 2020

Dieser Beitrag zeigt beispielhaft auf, wie an der Universität Bremen das Forschende Lernen als Studiengangsprofil implementiert wird. Dabei wird Bezug genommen auf eine Begleitforschung zum studentischen Erleben des Forschenden Lernens, sowohl im Einzelmodul als auch im Verlauf des Curriculums. Auch wird nachgezeichnet, wie sich – basierend auf den Ergebnissen der Begleitforschung – im Lehrteam an der curricularen Profilbildung zum Forschenden Lernen arbeiten lässt.
Forschendes Lehren und Lernen – ein mehrdimensionales Modell für die Lehrpraxis aus Perspektive der empirischen Wissenschaften
Authors: Selje-Aßmann Natascha
Published: August 2020

Ausgangspunkt des Beitrags ist die Analyse von Definitionen des Forschenden Lernens im Hinblick auf Herausforderungen bei der praktischen Umsetzung in empirischen Wissenschaften. Die vorliegenden Konzepte werden um die Perspektive eines mehrdimensionalen Modells ergänzt, das unterschiedliche Phasen und Grade des Forschungsprozesses integriert. Das Modell lässt sich zur Reflexion von Formaten Forschenden Lernens bei der Planung einzelner Lehrveranstaltungen oder zur Integration von Forschendem Lernen entlang eines Curriculums einsetzen.
Humangenetische Beratung in Deutschland: Entwicklung der Inanspruchnahme
Authors: Schmidtke Jörg , Epplen Jörg T. , Glaubitz Ralf , Grimm Tiemo , Nippert R. Peter , Tönnies Holger , Zerres Klaus , Nippert Irmgard
Published: August 2020

Hintergrund

Mit dem Gendiagnostikgesetz (GenDG) hat der deutsche Gesetzgeber tief greifende Vorschriften für die humangenetische Leistungserbringung einschließlich der genetischen Beratung erlassen. In dieser Arbeit werden Daten zur Inanspruchnahme der humangenetischen Beratung in den Jahren vor und nach dem Inkrafttreten des GenDG vorgelegt. Diese Daten sollen einer informierten Abschätzung möglicher Auswirkungen des Gesetzes dienen.

Material und Methoden

Die in den Jahren 2005 bis 2017 im Rahmen der gesetzlichen Krankenversicherung erbrachten und nach Einheitlichem Bewertungsmaßstab (EBM) über die kassenärztlichen Vereinigungen (KVen) abrechenbaren humangenetischen Beratungsleistungen wurden über eine Datenbankabfrage beim Zentralinstitut der Kassenärztlichen Bundesvereinigung (ZI-KBV) sowie bei einzelnen KVen Deutschlands erfasst. Für die Diskussion der beobachtbaren Entwicklung der Inanspruchnahme genetischer Beratung und der möglichen zukünftigen Entwicklung werden zusätzlich Daten zum Überweisungsverhalten, den Wartezeiten und Beratungsanlässen aus der GenBIn(Studie „Genetische Beratung in Deutschland“)-Datenbank herangezogen.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Die Inanspruchnahme der genetischen Beratung wächst seit 2009 mit einer durchschnittlichen Rate von ca. 6 % pro Jahr. Die gestiegene Nachfrage wird begleitet von veränderten relativen Anteilen der Zuweiser und steigenden Selbstüberweisungen und hat zu längeren Wartezeiten geführt. Unsere Daten legen die Vermutung nahe, dass der beobachtbare ständige Anstieg genetischer Beratungsleistungen multifaktoriell bedingt ist und nicht allein auf das GenDG zurückzuführen ist. Da die Zahl der hier wesentlichen Leistungserbringer, der vertragsärztlichen Fachärzte für Humangenetik, nahezu konstant bleibt, ist absehbar, dass bei weiter steigender Inanspruchnahme Kapazitätsgrenzen erreicht werden.
Predictive Factors for Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula—A Swedish Nationwide Register‐Based Study
Authors: Williamsson C. , Stenvall K. , Wennerblom J. , Andersson R. , Andersson B. , Tingstedt B.
Published: August 2020

Background

A serious complication after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF). The aim of this study was to analyse the incidence and predictive factors for POPF by using a large nationwide cohort.

Methods

Data from the Swedish National Registry for Pancreatic and Periampullary Cancer for all patients undergoing a PD from 2010 until 30th June 2018 were collected. The material was analysed in two groups, no POPF and clinically relevant (grade B and C) POPF.

Results

A total of 2503 patients underwent PD, of which 245 (10%) developed POPF. Patients with POPF had significantly more overall complications (Clavien Dindo ≥3a, 75% vs. 21%, p < 0.001) and longer hospital stay (median 23 [16–35] vs. 11 [8–15], p < 0.001) than patients without POPF. The risk of POPF was higher with increased BMI (OR 1.08, p < 0.001). Preoperative presence of diabetes (OR 0.52, p = 0.012) and preoperative biliary drainage (OR 0.34, p < 0.001) reduced the risk of POPF. Reconstruction with pancreaticojejunostomy caused a more than two folded increase in POPF compared with pancreaticogastrostomy (OR 2.41, p < 0.001). Weight gain ≥2 kg on postoperative day 1 was also a risk factor (OR 1.76, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A high BMI, a pancreaticojejunostomy and postoperative weight gain were risk factors for developing POPF. Diabetes or preoperative biliary drainage was protective.
Clozapine-induced agranulocytosis
Authors: Mijovic Aleksandar , MacCabe James H.
Published: August 2020

Wider use of clozapine, one of the most effective antipshychotic drugs, is precluded by its propensity to cause agranulocytosis. Currently, clozapine is used for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, with mandatory blood count monitoring for the duration of treatment. Agranulocytosis occurs in up to 0.8% of patients and presents a significant medical challenge, despite decreasing mortality rates. In this paper, we review the epidemiology of clozapine-induced agranulocytosis (CLIA), advances in identifying genetic risk factors, and the preventive measures to reduce the risk of CLIA. We discuss the pathogenesis of CLIA, which, despite receiving considerable scientific attention, has not been fully elucidated. Finally, we address the clinical management and suggest the approach to clozapine re-challenge in patients with a previous episode of neutropenia. With a significant proportion of clozapine recipients in Western hemisphere being Black, we comment on the importance of recognizing benign ethnic neutropenia as a potential impediment to clozapine administration. This review aims to aid haematologists and psychiatrists to jointly manage neutropenia and agranulocytosis caused by clozapine.
Familiäre Transmission der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung
Authors: Zitzmann Jana , Rombold Larissa , Renneberg Babette
Published: August 2020

Hintergrund

Forschungsergebnisse weisen übereinstimmend darauf hin, dass Kinder von Müttern mit einer Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (BPS) ein erhöhtes Risiko aufweisen, emotionale und verhaltensbezogene Auffälligkeiten zu entwickeln und/oder im Jugendalter selbst BPS-spezifische Symptomausprägungen zu zeigen.

Fragestellung

Welche Faktoren sind bei der familiären Transmission der BPS involviert, und welche Implikationen für die Praxis können darauf aufbauend abgeleitet werden?

Material und Methode

Auf der Basis einer umfassenden Literaturrecherche wurden aktuelle Forschungsbefunde zur familiären Transmission der BPS von Müttern zu ihren Kindern zusammengetragen und Kernbefunde in einem Transmissionsmodell integriert.

Ergebnisse

Das hier postulierte Transmissionsmodell bildet ein komplexes Zusammenspiel verschiedener Einflussfaktoren und Übertragungsmechanismen ab. Neben Faktoren aufseiten der Mutter und des Kindes werden externe Faktoren in das Modell integriert. Darüber hinaus werden (epi-)genetische und pränatale Einflüsse, die Bedeutung der Mutter-Kind-Interaktion und familiäre sowie soziale bzw. gesellschaftliche Einflüsse als Übertragungsmechanismen betont. Zudem wird eine potenziell präventive Wirkung der Hilfesysteme angenommen.

Schlussfolgerung

Aus dem Modell werden Ansatzpunkte abgeleitet, die dazu beitragen könnten, die Vulnerabilität sowie Belastungsfaktoren zu reduzieren und somit eine gesunde kindliche Entwicklung in dieser Risikogruppe zu fördern.
Cisplatin and carboplatin pharmacokinetics in a pediatric patient with hepatoblastoma receiving peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Nijstad A. Laura , van Eijkelenburg Natasha K. A. , Kraal Kathelijne C. J. M. , Meijs Marieke J. M. , de Kanter Clara T. M. M. , Lilien Marc R. , Huitema Alwin D. R.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Cisplatin and carboplatin are frequently used drugs in the treatment of pediatric hepatoblastoma. Dosing guidelines for these drugs in children requiring peritoneal dialysis are lacking. Here, we describe the case of a 3-year-old boy with pre-existing end-stage renal disease on peritoneal dialysis, requiring treatment with cisplatin and carboplatin for hepatoblastoma.

Methods

Pharmacokinetic data were generated to support clinical dosing decisions, with the aim of adequate exposure and minimal toxicity. In the first chemotherapy cycle, 25% of the standard cisplatin dose and 75% of the carboplatin dose, calculated using the pediatric Calvert formula, were administered. Free platinum concentrations were determined in plasma ultrafiltrate and dialysate samples drawn after administration of cis- and carboplatin.

Results

Cisplatin was well tolerated and the observed AUC of cisplatin were 15.3 and 14.3 mg/L h in cycles 1 and 3, respectively. The calculated AUC of carboplatin in cycle 1 (9.8 mg/mL min) exceeded target AUC of 6.5 mg/mL min and toxicity was observed; therefore, the dose was reduced in cycles 2 and 3. The observed AUC in cycles 2 and 3 was 5.4 and 5.7 mg/mL min respectively. Platinum concentrations in the dialysate showed that 3–4% of the total dose of cisplatin and 10–12% of the total dose of carboplatin were excreted via peritoneal dialysis. Chemotherapy enabled extended hemihepatectomy and complete remission was achieved.

Conclusion

This report shows that it is feasible to measure AUCs for both drugs and to individualize the dose of these drugs according to the PK results and clinical parameters. Our advice for future cases would be to calculate the starting dose of carboplatin using the (pediatric) Calvert formula, assuming a dialytic clearance of zero, and to adjust the dose if required, based on therapeutic drug monitoring.
Microbial insights from Antarctic and Mediterranean shallow-water bone-eating worms
Authors: Hewitt Olivia H. , Díez-Vives Cristina , Taboada Sergi
Published: August 2020

Bone-eating worms of the genusOsedax(Annelida, Siboglinidae) form unique holobionts (functional entity comprising host and associated microbiota), highly adapted to inhabit bone tissue of marine vertebrates. These gutless worms have developed nutritional symbioses housing intracellular, horizontally acquired, heterotrophic bacteria hypothesised to harness nutrients from organic compounds, sequestered within the bone. Despite previous efforts, critical mechanisms mediating activity and acquisition of diverse bacterial assemblages remain unclear. Using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we performed detailed taxonomic and predicted functional analyses shedding light on the microbial communities of two shallow-waterOsedaxspecies (Osedax deceptionensisandOsedax‘mediterranea’) from contrasting habitats (Antarctic and Mediterranean Sea), in two tissue types (roots and palps). Comparative assessments between host species revealed distinct microbial assemblages whilst, within host species and body tissue, relative symbiont frequencies retained high variability. We reported relatively high abundances of microbes previously classified as primary endosymbionts, Ribotype 1 (order Oceanospirillales), and diverse likely secondary epibionts warranting further exploration as recurrentOsedaxassociates. Surprisingly,O.‘mediterranea’ exhibited relatively low abundance of Oceanospirillales, but increased abundance of other potentially hydrocarbon degrading bacteria from the family Alteromonadaceae. We hypothesise the presence of functionally similar, non-Oceanospirillales primary endosymbionts withinO.‘mediterranea’. Functional metagenomic profiling (using 16S rRNA sequences) predicted broad metabolic capabilities, encompassing relatively large abundances of genes associated with amino acid metabolism. Comparative analyses between host body tissue communities highlighted several genes potentially providing critical functions to theOsedaxhost or that confer adaptations for intracellular life, housed within bone embedded host root tissues.
Interplay of the leading-edge vortex and the tip vortex of a low-aspect-ratio thin wing
Authors: Dong Lei , Choi Kwing-So , Mao Xuerui
Published: August 2020

Three-dimensional vortical structures and their interaction over a low-aspect-ratio thin wing have been studied via particle image velocimetry at the chord Reynolds number of $$10^5$$

10
5

. The maximum lift of this thin wing is found at an angle of attack of $$42^\circ$$

42
∘

. The flow separates at the leading-edge and reattaches to the wing surface, forming a strong leading-edge vortex which plays an important role on the total lift. The results show that the induced velocity of the tip vortex increases with the angle of attack, which helps reattach the separated flow and maintains the leading-edge vortex. Turbulent mixing indicated by the high Reynolds stress can be observed near the leading-edge due to an intense interaction between the leading-edge vortex and the tip vortex; however, the reattachment point of the leading-edge vortex moves upstream closer to the wing tip.

Graphic abstract
Prognostic impact of additional HPV diagnostics in 102 patients with p16-stratified advanced oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Weiss Bernhard G. , Anczykowski Mahalia Zoe , Küffer Stefan , Spiegel Jennifer L. , Bertlich Mattis , Canis Martin , Ihler Friedrich , Kitz Julia , Jakob Mark
Published: August 2020

Purpose

p16 overexpression was considered as surrogate marker to identify human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCCs).

Methods

102 patients with advanced stage OPSCCs treated primarily by transoral lasermicrosurgery were included. Prognostic associations of p16- and HPV-status were analyzed separately and combined.

Results

In contrast to p16, the HPV-status resulted in no significant survival discrepancies (5-year overall survival (OS) HPV-positive 64.9%, HPV-negative 78.7%). Combining both markers, p16-positive (p16-positive/HPV-positive, p16-positive/HPV-negative) and p16-negative/HPV-negative groups demonstrated comparable high survival (OS 78.1% vs. 85.6% vs. 73.6%). Lowest survival was observed for patients with p16-negative/HPV-positive OPSCCs (OS 40.8%).

Never smoking patients with p16-positive OPSCCs demonstrated the highest survival, whereas within former/current smokers with p16-positive and p16-negative disease it was comparable low (OS 90.0% vs. 63.0% vs. 57.4%).

Conclusions

p16- and HPV-status should not be considered as equivalent markers for a better prognosis. Furthermore, they should not generally predominate patient associated factors like smoking.
SGLT2 and cancer
Authors: Wright Ernest M.
Published: August 2020

Glycolysis plays a central role in tumor metabolism and growth, and this is reflected in a high rate of glucose uptake. It is commonly assumed that the upregulation of the facilitated glucose transporter GLUT1 meets the tumor’s demand for sugar. This underlies the success in using 2FDG PET imaging in the clinic to identify and stage many tumors. However, 2FDG is not a substrate for a second class of glucose transporters, the sodium-dependent glucose cotransporters, SGLTs, and so 2FDG PET may not provide a complete picture. A specific new radiotracer to detect SGLT activity has been introduced, Me4FDG, and this provides an opportunity to explore the potential role of SGLTs in supporting tumor glycolysis. In this brief review, I highlight the development of Me4FDG and our preliminary studies of Me4FDG PET in cancer patients. We find that the renal isoform, SGLT2, is expressed in pancreatic and prostate tumors and glioblastomas, and Me4FDG PET introduces a new method to image tumors. As SGLT2 drugs are successful in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus, they may also provide a new therapy.
Post-mortem viral dynamics and tropism in COVID-19 patients in correlation with organ damage
Authors: Skok Kristijan , Stelzl Evelyn , Trauner Michael , Kessler Harald H. , Lax Sigurd F.
Published: August 2020

The persistence of SARS-CoV-2 after death of infected individuals is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in different organs in correlation with tissue damage and post-mortem viral dynamics in COVID-19 deceased. Twenty-eight patients (17 males, 11 females; age 66–96 years; mean 82.9, median 82.5 years) diagnosed with COVID-19 were studied. Swabs were taken post-mortem during autopsy (N = 19) from the throat, both lungs, intestine, gallbladder, and brain or without autopsy (N = 9) only from the throat. Selective amplification of target nucleic acid from the samples was achieved by using primers for ORF1a/b non-structural region and the structural protein envelope E-gene of the virus. The results of 125 post-mortem and 47 ante-mortem swabs were presented as cycle threshold (Ct) values and categorized as strong, moderate, and weak. Viral RNA was detected more frequently in the lungs and throat than in the intestine. Blood, bile, and the brain were negative. Consecutive throat swabs were positive up to 128 h after death without significant increase of Ct values. All lungs showed diffuse alveolar damage, thrombosis, and infarction and less frequently bronchopneumonia irrespective of Ct values. In 30% the intestine revealed focal ischemic changes. Nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2 was detected by immunohistochemistry in bronchial and intestinal epithelium, bronchial glands, and pneumocytes. In conclusion, viral RNA is still present several days after death, most frequently in the respiratory tract and associated with severe and fatal organ damage. Potential infectivity cannot be ruled out post-mortem.
Systemic treatment of advanced/metastatic renal cell carcinoma in the context of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: recommendations from the interdisciplinary working group for renal tumors (IAG-N)
Authors: Ivanyi Philipp , Grüllich Carsten , Kroeger Nils , Gauler Thomas , Johannsen Manfred , Bedke Jens , Grünwald Viktor ,   On behalf of the Interdisciplinary working group on renal tumors (IAG-N) of the German Cancer Socity (DKG)
Published: August 2020

This letter summarizes recommendations from the interdisciplinary working group of renal tumors (IAGN) of the German Cancer Society for the systemic treatment of advanced/metastatic renal cell carcinoma in the context of the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Empirical Shaft Resistance of Driven Piles Penetrating Weak Rock
Authors: Barrett John W. , Prendergast Luke J.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, an empirical relationship between the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) of intact rock and the unit shaft resistance of piles penetrating rock is investigated. A growing number of civil engineering projects are utilizing steel piles driven into rock where a significant portion of the pile capacity is derived from the shaft resistance. Despite the growing number of projects utilizing the technology, little to no guidance is offered in the literature as to how the shaft resistance is to be calculated for such piles. A database has been created for driven piles that penetrate bedrock. The database consists of 42 pile load tests of which a majority are steel H-piles. The friction fatigue model is applied to seven of the pile load tests for which sufficient UCS data exists in order to develop an empirical relation. The focus of this paper is on case histories that include driven pipe piles with at least 2 m penetration into rock.
Treatment of posttraumatic syringomyelia: evidence from a systematic review
Authors: Kleindienst Andrea , Laut Francisco Marin , Roeckelein Verena , Buchfelder Michael , Dodoo-Schittko Frank
Published: August 2020

Background

Following spinal cord injury (SCI), the routine use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) resulted in an incremental diagnosis of posttraumatic syringomyelia (PTS). However, facing four decades of preferred surgical treatment of PTS, no clear consensus on the recommended treatment exists. We review the literature on PTS regarding therapeutic strategies, outcomes, and complications.

Methods

We performed a systematic bibliographic search on (“spinal cord injuries” [Mesh] AND “syringomyelia” [Mesh]). English language literature published between 1980 and 2020 was gathered, and case reports and articles examining syrinx due to other causes were excluded. The type of study, interval injury to symptoms, severity and level of injury, therapeutic procedure, duration of follow-up, complications, and outcome were recorded.

Results

Forty-three observational studies including 1803 individuals met the eligibility criteria. The time interval from SCI to the diagnosis of PTS varied between 42 and 264 months. Eighty-nine percent of patients were treated surgically (n = 1605) with a complication rate of 26%. Symptoms improved in 43% of patients postoperatively and in 2% treated conservatively. Stable disease was documented in 50% of patients postoperatively and in 88% treated conservatively. The percentage of deterioration was similar (surgery 16%, 0.8% dead; conservative 10%). Detailed analysis of surgical outcome with regard to symptoms revealed that pain, motor, and sensory function could be improved in 43 to 55% of patients while motor function deteriorated in around 25%. The preferred methods of surgery were arachnoid lysis (48%) and syrinx drainage (31%).

Conclusion

Even diagnosing PTS early in its evolution with MRI, to date, no satisfactory standard treatment exists, and the present literature review shows similar outcomes, regardless of the treatment modality. Therefore, PTS remains a neurosurgical challenge. Additional research is required using appropriate study designs for improving treatment options.
Leptin reduces in vitro cementoblast mineralization and survival as well as induces PGE2 release by ERK1/2 commitment
Authors: Ruiz-Heiland G. , Yong J. W. , von Bremen J. , Ruf S.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Juvenile obesity is a complex clinical condition that is present more and more frequently in the daily orthodontic practice. Over-weighted patients have an impaired bone metabolism, due in part to their increased levels of circulating adipokines. Particularly, leptin has been reported to play a key role in bone physiology. Leptin is ubiquitously present in the body, including blood, saliva, and crevicular fluid. If, and to what extent, it could influence the reaction of cementoblasts during orthodontic-induced forces is yet unknown.

Material and methods

OCCM-30 cementoblasts were cultivated under compressive forces using different concentrations of leptin. The expression of ObR, Runx-2, Osteocalcin, Rank-L, Sost, Caspase 3, 8, and 9 were analyzed by RT-PCR. Western blots were employed for protein analysis. The ERK1/2 antagonist FR180204 (Calbiochem) was used and cPLA2 activation, PGE2, and cytochrome C release were further evaluated.

Results

In vitro, when compressive forces are applied, leptin promotes ERK1/2 phosphorylation, as well as upregulates PGE2 and caspase 3 and caspase 9 on OCCM cells. Blockade of ERK1/2 impairs leptin-induced PGE2 secretion and reduced caspase 3 and caspase 9 expression.

Conclusions

Leptin influences the physiological effect of compressive forces on cementoblasts, exerting in vitro a pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic effect.

Clinical relevance

Our findings indicate that leptin exacerbates the physiological effect of compressive forces on cementoblasts promoting the release of PGE2 and increases the rate of cell apoptosis, and thus, increased levels of leptin may influence the inflammatory response during orthodontically induced tooth movement.
Massive data analyses show negative impact of type 1 and 2 diabetes on the outcome of periodontal treatment
Authors: Raedel Michael , Noack Barbara , Priess Heinz-Werner , Bohm Steffen , Walter Michael H.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate the impact of diabetes on the outcome of periodontal treatment based on massive data analyses.

Materials and methods

Data originated from the database of a major German National Health Insurance. Patients who underwent periodontal treatment were allocated to four groups according to their medical condition: type 1 diabetes (D1), type 2 diabetes with the intake of oral anti-diabetics (D2M), type 2 diabetes without the intake of oral anti-diabetics (D2), and a control group without diabetes (ND). Four-year Kaplan-Meier survival analyses on the patient level and multivariate regression analyses were conducted for tooth extraction.

Results

Of 415,718 patients, 4139 matched the criteria for D1, 22,430 for D2M, and 23,576 for D2. At 4 years, the cumulative survival rate (no extraction) was 51.7% in the D1 group, 54.0% in the D2M group, and 57.7% in the D2 group. The ND control group had a significantly higher survival rate of 65.9% (P < 0.0001). In the multivariate analyses, both diabetes types were significantly associated with further tooth loss after periodontal treatment.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of diabetes type 1 or 2 seems to be associated with a higher risk of tooth loss after periodontal treatment.

Clinical relevance

The long-term prognosis of teeth in diabetes patients should be judged carefully.
Column Classification/Characterisation of Strong Cation Exchange Phases for the Liquid Chromatographic Analysis of Small Molecular Weight Bases
Authors: Field Jennifer K. , Bell Ashleigh , Christopoulou Ifigeneia , Petersson Patrik , Ferguson Paul D. , Euerby Melvin R.
Published: August 2020

A simple, rapid and robust protocol for the characterisation of strong cation exchange columns for the analysis of small molecular weight bases is described. A range of ten different phases were characterised, and the resultant selectivity and retention factors analysed using Principal Component Analysis. The score plots for the first and second principal components described 83% of the variability within the dataset. Score plots highlighted the large chromatographic differences observed between the phases, the validity of which was established using a larger range of bases. All the strong cation exchange materials demonstrated a synergistic mixed mode (i.e. ion exchange and hydrophobic) retention mechanism. Principal Component Analysis also highlighted the potential difficulty in locating suitable strong cation exchange “back-up” columns for the analysis of small molecular weight bases in that the characterised columns all displayed very different selectivities. The robustness of the protocol was confirmed by a factorial design experiment.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) for Dutch Adolescents
Authors: Kennes Anne , Peeters Sanne , Janssens Mayke , Reijnders Jennifer , Lataster Johan , Jacobs Nele
Published: August 2020

This study examined the structure, reliability, and convergent validity of the adolescent version of the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (Dutch MHC-SF-A), a self-report questionnaire for positive mental health assessment. This questionnaire was completed by 459 Dutch adolescents (178 boys and 281 girls) between the ages of 11 and 18 years at baseline and at a 4-week follow-up. Results revealed the 3-factor structure in emotional, psychological, and social well-being, a high internal reliability and a moderate test–retest reliability. Findings suggest that mental illness and well-being represent two related but distinct continua of mental health. Fostering adolescents’ well-being is important. Promoting positive emotions, creating a supportive and loving parent–adolescent relationship, and a supportive school environment will contribute to this.
The impact of market orientation on university spin-off business performance
Authors: Buratti Nicoletta , Profumo Giorgia , Persico Luca
Published: August 2020

Extant literature on the antecedents of university spin-off (USO) business performance has developed with the aim of highlighting those drivers that could foster the performance of such firms, focusing on a variety of factors. Less interest has been devoted to the market orientation–performance relationship, despite the positive link frequently found in the marketing literature. The aim of the present paper is therefore to fill this gap and investigate the relationship between market orientation (MO) and USO performance using the Netval database of Italian research spin-offs. To measure MO, we adopted an ad hoc questionnaire, and after testing its validity with a factor analysis, we performed a regression model. The results show that MO, particularly some of its components (customer intelligence generation, intelligence dissemination, integration and inter-functional coordination), has an impact on business performance. This contribution presents some valuable research implications useful for academics, but professionals from new high-tech ventures and technology transfer offices may also benefit from this knowledge.
High Prevalence of Cervical High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Harboring Atypical Genotypes in Human Immunodeficiency Virus -Infected and -Uninfected First-Generation Adult Immigrant Women Originating from Sub-Saharan Africa and Living in France
Authors: Mboumba Bouassa Ralph-Sydney , Gubavu Camelia , Veyer David , Robin Leman , Gravier Anne , Hocqueloux Laurent , Prazuck Thierry , Péré Hélène , Bélec Laurent ,   for the ANRS ImmiPap Study Group, Gubavu C. , Gravier A. , Hocqueloux L. , Prazuck T. ,   Villeneuve Saint-Georges, Patey O. , Bouchaud O. , Traore L. , Youssouf M.K. ,   Virology laboratory (Paris), Bélec L. , Mboumba Bouassa R.-S. , Péré H. , Veyer D.
Published: August 2020

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cervical lesions in first-generation immigrant African women in France should reflect the epidemiology of high-risk (HR)-human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in sub-Saharan Africa. First-generation immigrant African women attending the Centre Hospitalier Régional of Orléans, France, were prospectively subjected to endocervical swabs for HPV DNA PCR and Pap smear. Fifty women (mean age, 41.7 years) living in France (mean stay, 10.7 years) were enrolled, including 26.0% of HIV-negative women from general population and 74.0% of women with known HIV infection. Cervical HPV prevalence was 68.0%, with 56.0% of HR-HPV. HR-HPV -68 and -58 were the predominant genotypes (20.0% and 14.0%, respectively). HR-HPV-16 and HR-HPV-18 were infrequently detected. HIV-infected women showed a trend to be more frequently infected by HPV than HIV-negative women (70.3% versus 61.5%). Most women (84.0%) showed normal cytology, while the remaining (16.0%) exhibited cervical abnormalities and were frequently HIV-infected (87.5%). These observations highlight the unsuspected high burden of cervical HR-HPV infections mostly associated with atypical genotypes, HIV infection and cervical abnormalities in first-generation immigrant African women living in France.
Evaluation Methods for Non-contact Bend and Free Recovery Tests of Thin NiTi Wires and Their Effects on Measured Transformation Temperatures
Authors: Apell Jonathan , Rettenmayr Markus , Undisz Andreas
Published: August 2020

Non-contact evaluation of transformation temperatures via bend and free recovery tests requires precise optical evaluation of shape changes of NiTi components. A variety of experimental setups is documented in the literature, but the influence of the evaluation method on the transformation temperatures is rarely assessed in detail. In the present work, the reverse transformation of bent wires is evaluated comparing the tracking of the lowest wire point and the tracking of the curvature. For calculating curvatures, different approaches of fitting the wire outline were applied. Fourth degree polynomials and ellipse segment fits were found to cause high noise toward the end of the reverse transformation, second degree polynomials and circle segment fits led to increased sensitivity in that region. Accordingly, the evaluation of curvature allowed to resolve a two-stage reverse transformation, which was otherwise obscured. The reasons for this effect are discussed comparing curvatures as determined by the different evaluation methods.