bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical usefulness of conversion surgery for unresectable pancreatic cancer diagnosed on multidetector computed tomography imaging: Results from a multicenter observational cohort study by the Hokkaido Pancreatic Cancer Study Group (HOPS UR‐01)
Authors: Kimura Yasutoshi , Nakamura Toru , Hayashi Tsuyoshi , Kuwatani Masaki , Motoya Masayo , Yoshida Makoto , Imamura Masafumi , Nagayama Minoru , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Yamakita Keisuke , Goto Takuma , Sakuhara Yusuke , Takahashi Kuniyuki , Maguchi Hiroyuki , Hirano Satoshi , Takemasa Ichiro
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim

Effective multidisciplinary approaches for unresectable pancreatic cancer (UR‐PC) that include modern chemotherapeutic regimens and subsequent conversion surgery (CS) are being developed. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of patients clinically diagnosed with UR‐PC, focusing on the efficacy of CS.

Methods

Patients ineligible for two multicenter phase II studies conducted by the Hokkaido Pancreatic Cancer Study Group (HOPS) were recruited. Sequential treatment regimens, conversion to radical surgery, and overall survival (OS) were analyzed by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT)‐based UR factors. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of OS.

Results

Sixty‐six of 247 intended recruits for HOPS studies from October 2013 to April 2016 were included. Unresectability was due to locally advanced (LA) disease and metastasis (M) in 42 and 24 patients, respectively. Induction therapy began with chemotherapy (CT) and chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in 44 and 17 patients, respectively, of whom 23 received modern CT regimens. Radical surgery was completed in 12 (LA, 10; M, two) with a median treatment interval of 10.3 months (range, 2‐32). Eleven patients (91.6%) achieved pathological R0 resection. Median OS was significantly longer in patients who underwent CS than those who did not (44.1 vs 14.5 months, P < 0.0001). CS was an independent predictor of OS (hazard ratio, 0.078; 95% confident interval, 0.017‐0.348; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Conversion surgery after a favorable response to sequential treatment might prolong survival in patients with UR‐PC. Precise diagnosis on MDCT followed by sequential multimodal anticancer treatment is essential.
Convection in a Krogh cylinder: Putting back fluid flow in the extravascular tissue
Authors: Qiu Xianjie , Sane Nandini , Neogi Parthasakha
Published: July 2019

Models for drug delivery are based on the use of stirred tanks to represent organs that contain no mass transfer resistances. In the original Krogh cylinder model, a mass transfer resistance shows up but there is no convection in the tissue where convection should matter. In the present study, a two‐dimensional flow field is used to show that when a liquid enters the capillary, some leave through the walls into the tissue at the arterial end and then doubles back into the capillary at the venous end. Some flow does not return which is taken to be the flow to the lymphatic system. We can get the measured transcapillary pressure drop of about 2,666 Pa if in addition the compliance of the tube wall is taken into account. Very realistic flow fields have been shown for a model liver and a tumor.
Chemoselective Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura Cross‐Coupling of (Diborylmethyl)silanes with Alkenyl Bromides
Authors: Kim Junghoon , Lee Eunsung , Cho Seung Hwan
Published: July 2019

Herein, we report the development of a palladium‐catalyzed chemoselective cross‐coupling of (diborylmethyl)silanes with alkenyl bromides. The reaction shows broad scope with respect to alkenyl bromides and (diborylmethyl)silanes, affording a range of α‐silyl‐substituted allylic boronate esters in good‐to‐excellent yields. The practicality of the developed coupling reaction is demonstrated by the gram‐scale synthesis of α‐silyl‐substituted allylic boronate ester.
The effect of standard and high dose of rikkunshito on achievement of enteral nutrition target in critically ill patients: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Doi Mitsunori , Miyamoto Kyohei , Shimokawa Toshio , Ariyasu Hiroyuki , Kaneko Masahiro , Yonemitsu Takafumi , Nakashima Tsuyoshi , Matsumoto Haruka , Shibata Mami , Shibata Naoaki , Soda Midori , Kitaichi Kiyoyuki , Kato Seiya
Published: July 2019

Aim

Rikkunshito is a traditional Japanese medicine used for delayed gastric emptying in intensive care units in Japan. This study aimed to investigate whether standard‐ or high‐dose rikkunshito can improve the achievement of enteral calorie target among critically ill adults.

Methods

This open‐label, single‐center, pilot randomized controlled trial was carried out from March 2018 until December 2018 and enrolled critically ill adult patients requiring enteral nutrition by gastric tube for at least 5 days. Patients were randomized into the control group, the standard‐dose rikkunshito group (2.5 g three times daily), and the high‐dose rikkunshito group (5 g three times daily). Intervention was given for 5 days. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of enteral calorie intake achieved in the target at the fifth day after randomization.

Results

The cohort comprised 26 patients; of these, 9, 8, and 9 were included in the control group, the standard‐dose group, and the high‐dose group, respectively. Twenty‐one patients (81%) were included in the primary analysis. The percentage of enteral calorie intake achieved in the target at the fifth day was 59% (interquartile range [IQR], 39–63%), 40% (IQR, 26–61%), and 62% (IQR, 17–83%) in the control, the standard‐dose, and the high‐dose groups, respectively (P = 0.42). The number of adverse events did not differ significantly between the groups (control group, 4 [44%]; standard‐dose group, 3 [38%]; and high‐dose group, 4 [44%], P = 1.00).

Conclusions

Standard‐ or high‐dose rikkunshito did not improve the achievement of enteral calorie target in critically ill adults.
Soluble ST2 links inflammation to outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Bevers Matthew B. , Wolcott Zoe , Bache Søren , Hansen Christina , Sastre Cristina , Mylvaganam Ravi , Koch Matthew J. , Patel Aman B. , Møller Kirsten , Kimberly W. Taylor
Published: July 2019

Objective

To investigate whether soluble growth stimulation expressed gene 2 (sST2), a prognostic marker in cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders, is associated with neurological injury after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).

Methods

We studied SAH patients from 2 independent cohorts. Outcome assessments included functional status at 90 days using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), mortality, and delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). The relationships between sST2 plasma level and outcome measures were assessed in both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analysis. Primary blood mononuclear cells from SAH patients and elective aneurysm controls were analyzed by multiparameter flow cytometry.

Results

In the discovery cohort, sST2 predicted 90‐day mRS 3–6 (C index = 0.724, p < 0.001) and mortality in Kaplan–Meier analysis (p < 0.001). The association with functional status was independent of age, sex, World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies score, modified Fisher score, treatment modality, and cardiac comorbidities (adjusted odds ratio = 2.28, 95% confidence interval = 1.04–5.00, p = 0.039). Higher sST2 concentration was observed in those patients with DCI (90.8 vs 53.7ng/ml, p = 0.003). These associations were confirmed in a replication cohort. In patients with high sST2, flow cytometry identified decreased expression of CD14 (4.27 × 105 ± 2,950 arbitrary unit (AU) vs 5.64 × 105 ± 1,290 AU, p < 0.001), and increased expression of CD16 (39,960 ± 272 AU vs 34,869 ± 183 AU, p < 0.001).

Interpretation

Plasma sST2 predicts DCI, functional outcome, and mortality after SAH, independent of clinical and radiographic markers. Elevated sST2 is also associated with changes in CD14+CD16+ monocytes. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:384–394
Biomimetic Nanocones that Enable High Ion Permselectivity
Authors: Shehzad Muhammad A. , Wang Yaoming , Yasmin Aqsa , Ge Xiaolin , He Yubin , Liang Xian , Zhu Yuan , Hu Min , Xiao Xinle , Ge Liang , Jiang Chenxiao , Yang Zhengjin , Guiver Michael D. , Wu Liang , Xu Tongwen
Published: July 2019

Artificial counterparts of conical‐shaped transmembrane protein channels are of interest in biomedical sciences for biomolecule detection and selective ion permeation based on ionic size and/or charge differences. However, industrial‐scale applications such as seawater desalination, separation of mono‐ from divalent cations, and treatment of highly‐saline industrial waste effluents are still big challenges for such biomimetic channels. A simple monomer seeding experimental approach is used to grow ionically conductive biomimetic charged nanocone pores at the surface of an acid‐functionalized membrane. These readily scalable nanocone membranes enable ultra‐fast cation permeation (Na+=8.4× vs. Mg2+=1.4×) and high ion charge selectivity (Na+/Mg2+=6×) compared to the commercial state‐of‐the‐art permselective membrane (CSO, Selemion, Japan) owing to negligible surface resistance and positively charged conical pore walls.
2D Crystal Engineering of Nanosheets Assembled from Helical Peptide Building Blocks
Authors: Merg Andrea D. , Touponse Gavin , van Genderen Eric , Zuo Xiaobing , Bazrafshan Alisina , Blum Thorsten , Hughes Spencer , Salaita Khalid , Abrahams Jan Pieter , Conticello Vincent P.
Published: July 2019

The successful integration of 2D nanomaterials into functional devices hinges on developing fabrication methods that afford hierarchical control across length scales of the entire assembly. We demonstrate structural control over a class of crystalline 2D nanosheets assembled from collagen triple helices. By lengthening the triple helix unit through sequential additions of Pro‐Hyp‐Gly triads, we achieved sub‐angstrom tuning over the 2D lattice. These subtle changes influence the overall nanosheet size, which can be adjusted across the mesoscale size regime. The internal structure was observed by cryo‐TEM with direct electron detection, which provides real‐space high‐resolution images, in which individual triple helices comprising the lattice can be clearly discerned. These results establish a general strategy for tuning the structural hierarchy of 2D nanomaterials that employ rigid, cylindrical structural units.
Tuning Dispersity by Photoinduced Atom Transfer Radical Polymerisation: Monomodal Distributions with ppm Copper Concentration
Authors: Whitfield Richard , Parkatzidis Kostas , Rolland Manon , Truong Nghia P. , Anastasaki Athina
Published: July 2019

Dispersity significantly affects the properties of polymers. However, current methods for controlling the polymer dispersity are limited to bimodal molecular weight distributions, adulterated polymer chains, or low end‐group fidelity and rely on feeding reagents, flow‐based, or multicomponent systems. To overcome these limitations, we report a simple batch system whereby photoinduced atom transfer radical polymerisation is exploited as a convenient and versatile technique to control dispersity of both homopolymers and block copolymers. By varying the concentration of the copper complex, a wide range of monomodal molecular weight distributions can be obtained (Đ=1.05–1.75). In all cases, high end‐group fidelity was confirmed by MALDI‐ToF‐MS and exemplified by efficient block copolymer formation (monomodal, Đ=1.1–1.5). Importantly, our approach utilises ppm levels of copper (as low as 4 ppm), can be tolerant to oxygen and exhibits perfect temporal control, representing a major step forward in tuning polymer dispersity for various applications.
A Cyclopropene Electrophile that Targets Glutathione S‐Transferase Omega‐1 in Cells
Authors: Wørmer Gustav J. , Hansen Bente K. , Palmfeldt Johan , Poulsen Thomas B.
Published: July 2019

Cyclopropenes are an important new addition to the portfolio of functional groups that can be used for bioorthogonal couplings. The inert nature of these highly strained compounds in complex biological systems is almost counterintuitive given their established electrophilic properties in organic synthesis. Here we provide the first demonstration of a cyclopropene that is capable of direct conjugation to protein targets in cells and show that this compound preferentially alkylates the active site cysteine of glutathione S‐transferase omega‐1 (GSTO1).
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, Thermal study and Conduction mechanism of [(C4H9)4P]3Bi2Cl9 compound
Authors: Elgahami H. , Trigui W. , Oueslati A. , Lhoste J. , Hlel F.
Published: July 2019

A novel tris (tetrabutylphosphonium) nonachlorodibismuthate (III) compound has been synthesized and characterized by a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, calorimetric, IR spectroscopy and electrical measurements. X‐ray diffraction analysis at room temperature reveals that the title compound belongs to the monoclinic system with P21/c space group. The unit cell dimensions are: a = 19.201(6) Å, b = 16.743 (5) Å, c = 22.396 (8) Å, β = 98.96 (2)° and Z = 4. The crystal structure was solved down to R equal to 0.035 for 5597 independent reflections. The crystal package is provided by electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonds (C‐H….Cl). Intermolecular interactions present in the grown single crystal were analyzed by Hirshfeld surface and 2‐dimensional fingerprint plot. The differential scanning calorimetry reveals one order–disorder phase transition at 400 ± 5 K.The electrical conductivity were carried out in the frequency range 200 Hz–1 MHz at various temperatures 343–413 K using impedance spectroscopy technique. The obtained results were analyzed by fitting the experimental data to an equivalent circuit model. The temperature dependence of alternating and direct current conductivities confirms the observed phase transition in the calorimetric study; they were described in terms of Arrhenius relation. AC conductivity measurements reveal that the conduction depends on both frequency and temperature, this agrees well with Correlated Barrier Hopping model in phase I and II.
Reproductive ecology of the threatened and endemic freshwater mussel Lampsilis bracteata
Authors: Seagroves L. Ashley , Barnhart M. Christopher , Hardy Thom , Schwalb Astrid N.
Published: July 2019

The Texas fatmucket, Lampsilis bracteata, is a unionid mussel endemic to the Colorado and upper Guadalupe River basins of Central Texas and a candidate for federal listing under the Endangered Species Act. There is increased interest in propagation and population restoration of threatened mussels in Texas as a potential conservation method, but still little is known about their life histories and how local populations may differ in aspects of their reproductive ecology, e.g. timing of brooding and potential local adaptations to host fish.

The purpose of this study was to compare host fish compatibilities and seasonality of reproduction between two populations: (a) by cross‐infesting fish from the San Saba and Llano Rivers in the Colorado River basin with sympatric and allopatric mussel larvae in the laboratory (hatchery‐produced Guadalupe bass and largemouth bass were also infested); and (b) by assessing gamete concentration, brooding period, viability of larvae and sex ratios using monthly sampling events between February 2017 and February 2018.

Reproduction varied with season and between populations. The proportion of females brooding tended to be lower in the summer and the autumn, and higher during winter and spring months before peak water temperatures were reached. The sex ratio in both populations did not significantly differ from 1:1. Fecundity and larvae viability were higher in the Llano River population compared with the San Saba population. Trematode flatworms were found in several female gonad samples from the San Saba population and in a few samples from the Llano population.

The highest metamorphosis success occurred on wild green sunfish and largemouth bass, and hatchery‐produced largemouth and Guadalupe bass. The average metamorphosis success tended to be higher for some mussel–fish pairings originating from the same tributary, suggesting that mussels may be locally adapted to host fish, which should be considered in conservation efforts.
Release of critically endangered crocodiles: Development and application of a food web approach to determine suitability of release habitat
Authors: McInerney Paul J. , Shackleton Michael E. , Rees Gavin N. , Frechette Jackson L. , Sam Han , Hor Leng
Published: July 2019

The Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) is a critically endangered medium‐size crocodilian endemic to Southeast Asia. Extirpated from much of its natural range, conservation efforts in the Cardamom Mountains of Cambodia include the release of captive‐reared juveniles and sub‐adults into river reaches known to support adult C. siamensis populations. Despite conservation concerns, the biology of wild C. siamensis is not well studied and the ecology of ecosystems at release locations is poorly understood.

Fish are thought to comprise a major component of the diet of C. siamensis. Here, the aim was to characterize fish communities within three potential C. siamensis release locations, focusing on community composition, density, size class structure and food web dynamics. The survey sites varied in both C. siamensis density and human fishing pressure, and the results are interpreted in light of these drivers.

Genomic interrogation of fishes of the Cardamom Mountains distinguished 13 distinct fish species, contributing to genetic databases and adding to the documented taxon list for the region. The presence of two previously unconfirmed fish genera in the region is confirmed. The first estimates of fish density, biomass and size class distribution for three rivers in the Cardamom Mountains are provided.

The three potential C. siamensis release reaches that were sampled showed clear differences in fish community composition, structural and trophic dynamics. Fish density and biomass were highest in the high‐density C. siamensis survey reach and lowest in the high human fishing pressure reach. Survey reaches with food webs that were more reliant on autochonously driven food webs supported higher densities and biomass of fish. These results have important implications for future C. siamensis conservation efforts in Cambodia and contribute valuable ecological information on a relatively unexplored region.
Antimony‐ and Bismuth‐Based Chalcogenides for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xu Baolin , Qi Shihan , He Pengbin , Ma Jianmin
Published: July 2019

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) have received much attention, owing to their great potential for large‐scale application. A lack of efficient anode materials with high reversible capacity is one main challenge facing the development of SIBs. Antimony‐ and bismuth‐based chalcogenides materials can store large amounts of Na+ ions, owing to the alloying/dealloying reaction mechanism within a low potential range, and thus, are regarded as promising anodes for SIBs. However, these materials face great challenges of poor ion diffusion rate, multiple phase transformations, and severe morphology pulverization. Herein, recent developments in antimony‐ and bismuth‐based chalcogenides materials, mainly rational structural design strategies used and the electrochemical reaction mechanisms involved, are summarized. Perspectives for further improving antimony‐ and bismuth‐based chalcogenides anodes are also provided.
Three New MOFs Induced by Organic Linker Coordination Modes: Gas Sorption, Luminescence, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Li Yong‐Zhi , Liu Yang , Lu Yu‐Ke , Ma Li‐Na , Hou Lei , Wang Yao‐Yu
Published: July 2019

By using a new 4,6‐bis(imidazol‐1‐yl) isophthalic acid ligand (H2bimip) with imidazolyl and carboxyl bifunctional groups, three new MOFs, [Co(bimip)(H2O)0.5]⋅0.5 H2O (1), [Zn(bimip)] (2), and [Mn(bimip)(H2O)2]⋅H2O (3), have been solvothermally synthesized in different solvent systems. H2bimip displays three different coordinated modes through the imidazolyl and carboxyl groups, and different cis–cis and trans–cis configurations, which result in distinct 3D topological frameworks: a (4,8)‐connected scu net for 1; a twofold interpenetrated (4,4)‐connected pts net for 2; and a four‐connected sra net for 3. Compounds 1 and 3 show antiferromagnetic properties, and 2 emits strong solid‐state blue luminescence. Compound 1 shows good chemical stability in acidic and basic environments and in boiling water. Additionally, the polar channels in 1, which are decorated by uncoordinated carboxylate O atoms and imidazolyl fragments, allow it to adsorb CO2 molecules selectively over CH4, and the CO2 binding sites in the framework were distinguished by molecular simulations.
Association of interpregnancy change in body mass index and spina bifida
Authors: Benjamin Renata H. , Ethen Mary K. , Canfield Mark A. , Hua Fei , Mitchell Laura E.
Published: July 2019

Background

Epidemiologic studies have consistently identified an association between spina bifida and maternal body mass index (BMI). Whether this reflects a causal relationship is unknown. If this association does reflect a causal relationship, the risk of spina bifida should change with changes in maternal BMI. We evaluated the association between spina bifida and maternal change in BMI, assessed using interpregnancy change in BMI (IPC‐BMI).

Methods

We used data from the Texas Birth Defects Registry and statewide vital records for 248 spina bifida cases and 2,562 controls (2006–2012) to conduct a case–control study. We used logistic regression to estimate the association between IPC‐BMI and spina bifida, with adjustment for potential confounders.

Results

When assessed as a continuous variable, IPC‐BMI was associated with spina bifida, with a 5% increase in the odds of spina bifida per unit (approximately 6 pounds) increase in BMI (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.09). When assessed as a categorical variable, with weight stable women as the referent, the odds of spina bifida were lower in women with any BMI decrease (aOR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.50, 1.08) and higher in women with an increase of ≥1 BMI units (aOR = 1.17, 95% CI: 0.85, 1.62).

Conclusions

Our findings provide suggestive, although not conclusive, evidence that maternal prepregnancy change in BMI, assessed using IPC‐BMI, is associated with spina bifida in the later pregnancy. Additional studies aimed at confirming this association and further strengthening the evidence for a causal relationship between spina bifida and maternal BMI are needed.
Simultaneous separation and determination of seven isoflavones in Radix Puerariae by capillary electrophoresis with a dual cyclodextrin system
Authors: Guo Jing , Wang Mengli , Guo Haitao , Chang Ruimiao , Yu Haixia , Zhang Guangbin , Chen Anjia
Published: July 2019

A simple, comprehensive and efficient capillary electrophoresis method using a dual cyclodextrin system was developed for the simultaneous determination of seven isoflavones (3′‐methoxypuerarin, puerarin, 3′‐hydroxypuerarin, ononin, daidzin, daidzein and genistin). Baseline separations of the seven isoflavones were achieved within 11 min with the running buffer consisting of 35 mm sodium tetraborate, 9.0 mm sulfobutylether‐β‐cyclodextrin and 30 mm α‐cyclodextrin at pH 9.34, and peaks were detected at 254 nm. Other separation parameters included the separation voltage for 15 kV and the working temperature for 25°C. Under the optimum conditions, good linearities were obtained with linear correlation coefficients of seven isoflavones of 0.9978–0.9992. The limits of detection and the limits of quantification were 0.7–2.9 and 2.5–9.5 μg/mL, respectively. Excellent precision and accuracy were obtained. The intraday and interday precision ranged from 0.7 to 2.0% and from 0.8 to 1.9%, respectively. The recoveries of seven analytes were from 97.7 to 103.1%. This method was successfully applied to determine the seven analytes in Radix Puerariae and its preparations.
Investigating the learning performances between sequence‐ and context‐based teaching designs for virtual reality (VR)‐based machine tool operation training
Authors: Chen Li‐Wei , Tsai Jo‐Peng , Kao Yung‐Chou , Wu Yu‐Xian
Published: July 2019

Background

Training workers in machine tool operations is indispensable. Because training course at school with real machine tools is costly and dangerous, most researchers have concentrated on developing and adopting virtual reality (VR)‐based applications. However, to improve students’ learning performance levels, teaching design is imperative.

Purpose

This study hopes to investigate the performance differences between sequence‐ (traditional) and context‐based teaching designs along with a self‐developed VR computer numerical control (VRCNC) training environment.

Method

Experimental design, sequence‐ and context‐based teaching designs were developed for this study. Forty male senior students were recruited from the department of mechanical engineering at an industrial high school. Then, corresponding pretests, teaching activities and posttests were implemented based on the proposed teaching and experimental designs. Finally, experiment‐, questionnaire‐, and interview‐based performance evaluations were utilized to conduct the final comparison and conclusion.

Results

Averagely, the context‐based teaching design exhibited superior results for mostly the learning performances. The survey results also revealed that the students obtain more satisfaction and self‐confidence after the context‐based teaching.

Conclusions

According to the results, the context‐based teaching design has obvious improvement on the performance of machine tool operation training. Three types of evaluation results provides a comprehensive support for the proposed context‐based teaching design along with the VRCNC in machine tool education.
Development and validation of a prognostic model for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergoing radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Kim Chang Gon , Lee Hyun Woong , Choi Hye Jin , Lee Jung Il , Lee Hye Won , Kim Seung Up , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Kim Han Sang , Kim Kyung Hwan , Choi Seong Jin , Kim Yongun , Lee Kwan Sik , Kim Gyoung Min , Kim Man Deuk , Won Jong Yoon , Lee Do Yun , Kim Beom Kyung
Published: July 2019

Background

There are large variations in prognosis among hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation (RFA). However, current staging or scoring systems hardly discriminate the outcome of HCC patients treated with RFA.

Methods

A total of 757 treatment‐naïve HCC patients undergoing RFA (derivation cohort) were analyzed to establish a nomogram for disease‐free survival (DFS) based on Cox proportional hazard regression model. Accuracy of the nomogram was assessed and compared with conventional staging or scoring systems. Furthermore, external validation was performed in an independent cohort including 208 patients (validation cohort).

Results

Tumor size, tumor number, alpha‐fetoprotein, prothrombin induced by vitamin K absence‐II, lymphocyte count, albumin, and presence of ascites were adopted to construct the prognostic nomogram from the derivation cohort. Calibration curves to predict probability of DFS at 3 and 5 years after RFA showed good agreements between the nomogram and actual observations. The concordance index of the present nomogram was 0.759 (95% confidence interval 0.728‐0.790), which was superior to those of conventional staging or scoring systems (range 0.505‐0.683, all P < .001). These results were also reproduced in the validation cohort.

Conclusion

Our simple‐to‐use nomogram optimized for treatment‐naïve HCC patients undergoing RFA provided better prognostic performance than conventional staging or scoring systems.
Does valve in valve TAVR carry a higher risk for thromboembolic events compared to native valve TAVR?
Authors: Eitan Amnon , Brinkmann Christina , Haselbach Timo , Witt Julian , Schofer Joachim
Published: July 2019

Objective

To evaluate the risk for brain lesions in valve in valve (VIV)‐transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) compared to native valve procedures (NV‐TAVR).

Background

TAVR is associated with the risk of stroke and a high incidence of brain lesions in diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI). The risk in VIV procedures is unknown.

Methods

Patients were included, if they received a Sapien‐3 or an Evolut‐R valve for an NV‐TAVR or VIV‐TAVR and a DW‐MRI within 3–5 days after the procedure.

Results

Two hundred nine patients had NV‐TAVR and 41 patients had VIV‐TAVR.

The VIV group was significantly younger (mean 82.3 vs. 74.7 years old, p < .001) but had higher mean EuroSCORE II (4.8 vs. 7.8, p < .001).

Predilatation was significantly more common with native valve (39% vs. 2%, p < .01), postdilatation rate was lower in VIV but without statistical significance (17% vs. 7%, p = .110).

Combined in‐hospital safety outcome was comparable [13(6.6%) vs. 5(12.2%), p = .205]. Any stroke was documented in four (0.5%) patients after native valve and in one (2.4%) after VIV‐TAVR.

New DW‐MRI brain lesions were significantly more often found in patients with native valves [153(73.2%) vs. 21(51.2%), p = .005], mean number of new lesions was also higher with native valve (2.8 ± 3.2 vs. 1.0 ± 1.4, p < .001).

Forward stepwise of logistic regression found age and post dilatation significant predictors of new MRI lesions.

Conclusions

Compared to native valves, VIV procedures were associated with lower incidence and number of brain lesions according to DW‐MRI; these were explained by lower patients' age and lower rate of postdilatation.
Iatrogenic constipation from barium blockade: A case report
Authors: Pathan Shajadi , Benzar Taras , Master Samip , Peddi Prakash
Published: July 2019

Barolith, a mixture of inspissated barium and feces, is a rare complication of barium‐contrast studies that lead to intestinal obstruction. With the high morbidity associated with barolith impaction, we recommend that physicians be more aware of complications, increase prompt diagnosis, and initiation of laxatives once discovered.
Microstructured Fischer‐Tropsch Reactor Scale‐up and Opportunities for Decentralized Application
Authors: Loewert Marcel , Hoffmann Julian , Piermartini Paolo , Selinsek Manuel , Dittmeyer Roland , Pfeifer Peter
Published: July 2019

Current projects focusing on the energy transition in traffic will rely on a high‐level technology mix for their commissioning. One of those technologies is the Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis (FTS) that converts synthesis gas into hydrocarbons of different chain lengths. A microstructured packed‐bed reactor for low‐temperature FTS is tested towards its versatility for biomass‐based syngas with a high inert gas dilution. Investigations include overall productivity, conversion, and product selectivity. A 60‐times larger pilot‐scale reactor is further tested. Evaporation cooling is introduced which allows to increase the available energy extraction from the system. From that scale on, an autothermal operation at elevated conversion levels is applicable.
Organoaluminum Compounds as Catalysts for Monohydroboration of Carbodiimides
Authors: Shen Qiumiao , Ma Xiaoli , Li Wenling , Liu Wenqing , Ding Yi , Yang Zhi , Roesky Herbert W.
Published: July 2019

The effective catalytic activity of organoaluminum compounds for the monohydroboration of carbodiimides has been demonstrated. Two aluminum complexes, 2 and 3, were synthesized and characterized. The efficient catalytic performances of four aluminum hydride complexes L1AlH2 (L1=HC(CMeNAr)2, Ar=2,6‐Et2C6H3; 1), L2AlH2(NMe3) (L2=o‐C6H4F(CH=N‐Ar), Ar=2,6‐Et2C6H3; 2), L3AlH (L3=2,6‐bis(1‐methylethyl)‐N‐(2‐pyridinylmethylene)phenylamine; 3), and L4AlH(NMe3) (L4=o‐C6H4(N‐Dipp)(CH=N‐Dipp), Dipp=2,6‐iPr2C6H3; 4), and an aluminum alkyl complex L1AlMe2 (5) were used for the monohydroboration of carbodiimides investigated under solvent‐free and mild conditions. Compounds 1–3 and 5 can produce monohydroborated N‐borylformamidine, whereas 4 can afford the C‐borylformamidine product. A suggested mechanism of this reaction was explored, and the aluminum formamidinate compound 6 was characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray, also a stoichiometric reaction was investigated.
Targeting G‐Rich DNA Structures with Photoreactive Bis‐Cyclometallated Iridium(III) Complexes
Authors: Weynand Justin , Bonnet Hughes , Loiseau Frédérique , Ravanat Jean‐Luc , Dejeu Jérôme , Defrancq Eric , Elias Benjamin
Published: July 2019

The synthesis and characterisation of three novel iridium(III) bis‐cyclometallated complexes is reported. Their photophysics have been fully characterised by classical methods and revealed charge‐transfer (CT) and ligand‐centred (LC) transitions. Their ability to selectively interact with G‐quadruplex telomeric DNA over duplex DNA has been studied by circular dichroism (CD), bio‐layer interferometry (BLI) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analyses. Interestingly, one of the complexes was able to promote photoinduced electron transfer (PET) with the guanine DNA base, which in turn led to oxidative damage (such as the formation of 8‐oxoguanine) to the telomeric sequence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of highly photo‐oxidising bis‐cyclometallated iridium(III) complexes with G‐quadruplex telomeric DNA.
Crystallographic and Theoretical Investigations of Er2@C2 n (2 n=82, 84, 86): Indication of Distance‐Dependent Metal–Metal Bonding Nature
Authors: Hu Shuaifeng , Shen Wangqiang , Yang Le , Duan Guangxiong , Jin Peng , Xie Yunpeng , Akasaka Takeshi , Lu Xing
Published: July 2019

Successful isolation and characterization of a series of Er‐based dimetallofullerenes present valuable insights into the realm of metal–metal bonding. These species are crystallographically identified as Er2@Cs(6)‐C82, Er2@C3v(8)‐C82, Er2@C1(12)‐C84, and Er2@C2v(9)‐C86, in which the structure of the C1(12)‐C84 cage is unambiguously characterized for the first time by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Interestingly, natural bond orbital analysis demonstrates that the two Er atoms in Er2@Cs(6)‐C82, Er2@C3v(8)‐C82, and Er2@C2v(9)‐C86 form a two‐electron‐two‐center Er−Er bond. However, for Er2@C1(12)‐C84, with the longest Er⋅⋅⋅Er distance, a one‐electron‐two‐center Er−Er bond may exist. Thus, the difference in the Er⋅⋅⋅Er separation indicates distinct metal bonding natures, suggesting a distance‐dependent bonding behavior for the internal dimetallic cluster. Additionally, electrochemical studies suggest that Er2@C82–86 are good electron donors instead of electron acceptors. Hence, this finding initiates a connection between metal–metal bonding chemistry and fullerene chemistry.
Fivefold Symmetry and 2D Crystallization: Self‐Assembly of the Buckybowl Pentaindenocorannulene on a Cu(100) Surface
Authors: Mairena Anaïs , Zoppi Laura , Lampart Samuel , Baldridge Kim K. , Siegel Jay S. , Ernst Karl‐Heinz
Published: July 2019

The modification of metal electrode surfaces with functional organic molecules is an important part of organic electronics. The interaction of the buckminsterfullerene fragment molecule pentaindenocorannulene with a Cu(100) surface is studied by scanning tunneling microscopy, dispersion‐enabled density functional theory, and force field calculations. Experimental and theoretical methods suggest that two adjacent indeno groups become oriented parallel to the surface upon adsorption under mild distortion of the molecular frame. The binding mechanism between molecule and surface is dominated by strong electrostatic interaction owing to Pauli repulsion. Two‐dimensional aggregation at room temperature leads to a single lattice structure in which all molecules are oriented unidirectionally. Their relative arrangement in the lattice suggests noncovalent intermolecular interaction through C−H⋅⋅⋅π bonding.
PROTOCOL: Advocacy interventions to reduce or eliminate violence and promote the physical and psychosocial well‐being of women who experience intimate partner abuse
Authors: Ramsay Jean , Carter Yvonne , Davidson Leslie , Eldridge Sandra , Hegarty Kelsey , Rivas Carol , Taft Angela , Warburton Alison , Dunne Danielle , Feder Gene
Published: July 2019

The World Health Organisation estimates that between 10% and 50% of women worldwide report having been assaulted physically or sexually by an intimate partner at some time in their lives, and when threats, financial and emotional abuse are included the prevalence rates are even higher. Abused women can suffer injury and long‐lasting physical and emotional health problems. One form of interventionto assist these women is advocacy. Advocacy interventions aim to help abused women directly by providing them with information and support to facilitate access to community resources. However, before recommending them to health policy makers we need to know whether they improve the health and well‐being of abused women. In other words, are advocacy interventions effective?

After searching the world literature for randomised controlled trials evaluating advocacy programmes for abused women, we found ten trials, involving 1,527 women. The studies comparing advocacy with “usual care” were conducted in a variety of settings both within and outside of healthcare. Participants were recruited from diverse ethnic populations and across a wide age range (15‐61 years), but manyhad a relatively deprived socioeconomic status. Most were experiencing current, often severe, abuse. All of the interventions sought to empower the women by helping them to achieve their goals. They differed in: duration (from 30 minutes to 80 hours), the outcomes reported, and the length of time the women were followed up.

The evidence is consistent with intensive advocacy decreasing physical abuse more than one to two years after the intervention for women already in refuges, but there is inconsistent evidence for a positive impact on emotional abuse. Similarly, there is equivocal evidence for the positive effects of intensive advocacy on depression, quality of life and psychological distress. There is evidence that brief advocacy increases the use of safety behaviours by abused women.

Taken as a whole, we conclude that at present there is equivocal evidence to determine whether intensive advocacy for women recruited in domestic violence shelters or refuges has a beneficial effect on their physical and psychosocial well‐being. Further, we do not know if less intensive interventions in healthcare settings are effective for women who still live with abusive partners. Too few studies evaluated interventions of comparable intensity and duration, measured the same outcomes, or had comparable follow‐up periods.
Roles of the Conserved Amino Acid Residues in Reduced Human Defensin 5: Cysteine and Arginine Are Indispensable for Its Antibacterial Action and LPS Neutralization
Authors: Chen Fang , Tang Yong , Zheng Hong , Xu Yang , Wang Junping , Wang Cheng
Published: July 2019

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that are able to neutralize toxins are promising antibiotics. In this study we investigated the role of structurally conserved amino acids in reduced human defensin 5 (HD5RED), which is an endogenous peptide with antibacterial action and the ability to neutralize lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Cys residues and high Arg content, rather than Gly18 and Arg6–Glu14, were found to be indispensable for HD5RED binding to lipid A, for penetrating the bacterial outer and inner membranes, and for eliminating bacteria. Otherwise, all the conserved sites were requisite for HD5RED to block the interaction between LPS and LPS‐binding protein and to suppress the TLR4–NF‐κB signaling pathway initiated by LPS. Accordingly, we designed the acetamidomethylated AcmCys‐E21R‐HD5RED, which was much more potent than HD5RED at eliminating bacteria and which can neutralize LPS. AcmCys‐E21R‐HD5RED was also found to exhibit a synergistic effect with ciprofloxacin in killing multidrug‐resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. The results of this study, in which multifunctional AMPs were designed based on structure–activity research, may help in the development of more peptide antibiotics.
Colon cancer as a subsequent malignant neoplasm in young adults
Authors: Teng Annabelle , Nelson Daniel W. , Dehal Ahmed , Chang Shu‐Ching , Fischer Trevan , Steele Scott R. , Goldfarb Melanie
Published: July 2019

Background

The incidence of colon cancer (CC) is rising in younger adults and can occur de novo or in patients previously treated for another cancer. To the authors' knowledge, the impact on survival of CC occurring as a subsequent malignant neoplasm (SMN) has not been described for younger patients, which the authors anticipate to be lower with SMNs than that of primary CC.

Methods

Patients aged <50 years with CC in the 2004 through 2014 National Cancer Data Base were identified. Patients were stratified by primary or subsequent occurrence. The impact of SMN status on overall survival (OS) was evaluated.

Results

Of 41,915 patients, 2852 (6.8%) had colon SMNs. More patients with colon SMNs were aged 40 to 49 years compared with patients with primary CC (83% vs 77%; P < .001). Patients with colon SMNs presented with earlier clinical and pathological T, N, and M classifications (all P < .001). Colon SMNs more commonly occurred in the right colon, whereas primary CC was found to have a higher prevalence in the sigmoid colon (P < .001). Patients with colon SMNs more frequently underwent total colectomy (17% vs 5%; P < .001), but received less chemotherapy (53% vs 65%; P < .001). When adjusted for demographic, tumor, and treatment characteristics, SMN status was associated with a 23% decreased OS compared with primary CC (95% CI, 1.14‐1.31; P < .001). Chemotherapy offered a 33% improvement in OS (95% CI, 0.56‐0.8; P < .001).

Conclusions

Colon SMNs in younger patients present at an earlier stage and are treated more aggressively surgically compared with primary CCs. Patients with SMNs of the colon have decreased survival, although chemotherapy offers a survival advantage. Further investigation is warranted to determine whether these disparities are due to the effects of cancer treatment or differences in tumor biology.
Practices and perceptions regarding intravenous opioid infusion and cancer pain management
Authors: Arthur Joseph A. , Reddy Akhila , Smith Uniqua , Hui David , Park Minjeong , Liu Diane , Vaughan‐Adams Nicole , Haider Ali , Williams Janet , Bruera Eduardo
Published: July 2019

Background

In view of the recent opioid crisis, ways to promote safe and effective opioid‐related practices are needed. Faster intravenous (iv) opioid infusion rates can result in increased adverse effects and risk for nonmedical opioid use. Data on best practices regarding safe iv opioid administration for cancer pain are limited. This study examined iv opioid bolus infusion practices and perceptions about opioids in cancer pain among 4 groups of inpatient oncology nurses.

Methods

An anonymous cross‐sectional survey was conducted among oncology nurses working in medical, surgical, intensive care unit (ICU), and emergency department (ED) settings. An iv opioid bolus infusion speed less than 120 seconds was considered too fast.

Results

The participant response rate was 59% (731 of 1234). Approximately 58%, 54%, and 58% of all nurses administered morphine, hydromorphone, and fentanyl, respectively, in less than 120 seconds. The median morphine infusion speeds were 55, 60, 60, and 85 seconds for ICU, surgical, ED, and medical unit nurses, respectively (P = .0002). The odds ratios for infusing too fast were 2.04 and 2.52 for ED (P = .039) and ICU nurses (P = .003), respectively, in comparison with medical unit nurses, and they were 0.27 and 0.18 with frequent (P = .003) and very frequent use of a timing device (P = .0001), respectively, in comparison with no use.

Conclusions

More than half the nurses working in the inpatient setting reported administering iv opioids too fast. ICU nurses administered opioids the fastest. Nurses who frequently used a timing device were less likely to infuse too fast. Further research is needed to standardize and improve the safe intermittent administration of iv opioids to patients with cancer.
Transforming Noble‐Metal Nanocrystals into Complex Nanostructures through Facet‐Selective Etching and Deposition
Authors: Ahn Jaewan , Zhang Luo , Qin Dong
Published: July 2019

Facet‐selective etching and deposition, as determined by the landscape of surface energy, represent two powerful methods for the transformation of noble‐metal nanocrystals into nanostructures with complex shapes or morphologies. This review highlights the use of these two methods, including integration of them, for the fabrication of novel monometallic and bimetallic nanostructures with enhanced properties. We start with an introduction to the role of surface capping in controlling the facet‐selective etching or deposition on the surface of Ag nanocrystals, followed by a case study of how to maneuver etching and deposition at different facets of Pd nanocrystals for the fabrication of nanoframes. We then introduce the use of galvanic replacement to accomplish selective etching and deposition on two different facets in an orthogonal manner, transforming Pd nanocubes into Pd−Pt octapods. By complementing galvanic replacement with a chemical reduction reaction, it is also feasible to control the rates of these two reactions for the conversion of Ag nanocubes into Ag@Ag−Au concave nanocubes and Ag@Au core‐shell nanocubes. These transformation methods not only greatly increase the shape diversity of metal nanocrystals but also offer nanocrystals with enhanced plasmonic and/or catalytic properties.
Construction and Properties of Sierpiński Triangular Fractals on Surfaces
Authors: Wang Yifan , Xue Na , Li Ruoning , Wu Tianhao , Li Na , Hou Shimin , Wang Yongfeng
Published: July 2019

Fractal structures are of fundamental importance in science, engineering, mathematics, and aesthetics. Construction of molecular fractals on surfaces can help to understand the formation mechanism of fractals and a series of achievements have been acquired in the preparation of molecular fractals. This review focuses on Sierpiński triangles (STs), representatives of various prototypical fractals, on surfaces. They are investigated by Monte Carlo simulations and ultra‐high vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy. STs are bonded through halogen bonds, hydrogen bonds, metal‐organic coordination bonds and covalent bonds. The coexistence of and competition between fractals and crystals are realized for a hydrogen‐bonded system. Electronic properties of two types of STs are summarized.