bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial action and clotting time of thin, hydrated poly(vinyl alcohol)/cellulose acetate films functionalized with LL37 for prospective wound‐healing applications
Authors: Felgueiras Helena P. , Teixeira Marta A. , Tavares Tânia D. , Homem Natália C. , Zille Andrea , Amorim M. Teresa P.
Published: October 2019

Poly(vinyl alcohol)/cellulose acetate (PVA/CA) films were prepared via a new method that combines principles from solvent casting and phase inversion. To guarantee some degree of flexibility, films were produced with a higher percentage of PVA compared to CA, from 90/10 to 50/50. The antimicrobial peptide (AMP) LL37 was then anchored using dopamine as a binding agent. Films were characterized in terms of functional groups, thermal stability, tensile strength, porosity, swelling, and degradation (stability in physiological media at different pHs). The antimicrobial performance of LL37 surface‐modified films was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli in dynamic environment and in the presence and absence of an albumin interface. LL37 treated films demonstrated great antibacterial efficacy against the three kinds of bacteria, ≈75% inhibition for S. aureus, ≈85% for S. epidermidis, and ≈60% for E. coli, regardless of PVA/CA ratio. Presence of albumin reduced bacteria inhibition in all tested groups, most likely due to the binding of the protein molecules to the antimicrobial agents, reducing the free fraction available for bacterial killing. Films treated with LL37 accelerated clotting time (≈10 min) above vancomycin and bare surfaces, demonstrating great capacity to activate the intrinsic coagulation cascade. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48626.
Quantitative Analysis of the Timing of Development of the Cerebellum and Precerebellar Nuclei in Monotremes, Metatherians, Rodents, and Humans
Authors: Ashwell Ken W. S. , Shulruf Boaz , Gurovich Yamila
Published: October 2019

We have used a quantitative statistical approach to compare the pace of development in the cerebellum and precerebellar systems relative to body size in monotremes and metatherians with that in eutherians (rodents and humans). Embryos, fetuses, and early postnatal mammals were scored on whether key structural events had been reached in the development of the cerebellum itself (CC—corpus cerebelli; 10 milestones), or the pontine and inferior olivary precerebellar nuclear groups (PC; 4 milestones). We found that many early cerebellar and precerebellar milestones (e.g., formation of Purkinje cell layer and deep cerebellar nuclei) were reached at a smaller absolute body length in both metatherians and eutherians together, compared to monotremes. Some later milestones (e.g., formation of the external granular layer and primary fissuration) were reached at a smaller body length in metatherians than eutherians. When the analysis was performed with proportional body length expressed as a natural log‐transformed ratio of length at birth, milestones were reached at a much smaller proportional body length in rodents and humans than in the metatherians or monotremes. The findings are consistent with the slower pace of metabolic activity and embryonic development in monotremes. They also indicate slightly advanced maturation of some early features of the cerebellum in some metatherians (i.e., early cerebellar development in dasyurids relative to body size), but do not support the notion of an accelerated development of the cerebellum to cope with the demands of early birth. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy Anat Rec, 303:1998–2013, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Prediction of Damage Accrual in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Using the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics Frailty Index
Authors: Legge Alexandra , Kirkland Susan , Rockwood Kenneth , Andreou Pantelis , Bae Sang‐Cheol , Gordon Caroline , Romero‐Diaz Juanita , Sanchez‐Guerrero Jorge , Wallace Daniel J. , Bernatsky Sasha , Clarke Ann E. , Merrill Joan T. , Ginzler Ellen M. , Fortin Paul R. , Gladman Dafna D. , Urowitz Murray B. , Bruce Ian N. , Isenberg David A. , Rahman Anisur , Alarcón Graciela S. , Petri Michelle , Khamashta Munther A. , Dooley M. A. , Ramsey‐Goldman Rosalind , Manzi Susan , Zoma Asad A. , Aranow Cynthia , Mackay Meggan , Ruiz‐Irastorza Guillermo , Lim S. Sam , Inanc Murat , van Vollenhoven Ronald F. , Jonsen Andreas , Nived Ola , Ramos‐Casals Manuel , Kamen Diane L. , Kalunian Kenneth C. , Jacobsen Soren , Peschken Christine A. , Askanase Anca , Hanly John G.
Published: October 2019

Objective

The Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) frailty index (FI) has been shown to predict mortality, but its association with other important outcomes is unknown. We examined the association of baseline SLICC FI values with damage accrual in the SLICC inception cohort.

Methods

The baseline visit was defined as the first visit at which both organ damage (SLICC/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index [SDI]) and health‐related quality of life (Short Form 36) were assessed. Baseline SLICC FI scores were calculated. Damage accrual was measured by the increase in SDI between the baseline assessment and the last study visit. Multivariable negative binomial regression was used to estimate the association between baseline SLICC FI values and the rate of increase in the SDI during follow‐up, adjusting for relevant demographic and clinical characteristics.

Results

The 1,549 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients eligible for this analysis were mostly female (88.7%) with a mean ± SD age of 35.7 ± 13.3 years and a median disease duration of 1.2 years (interquartile range 0.9–1.5 years) at baseline. The mean ± SD baseline SLICC FI was 0.17 ± 0.08. Over a mean ± SD follow‐up of 7.2 ± 3.7 years, 653 patients (42.2%) had an increase in SDI. Higher baseline SLICC FI values (per 0.05 increase) were associated with higher rates of increase in the SDI during follow‐up (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.19 [95% confidence interval 1.13–1.25]), after adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity/region, education, baseline SLE Disease Activity Index 2000, baseline SDI, and baseline use of glucocorticoids, antimalarials, and immunosuppressive agents.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the SLICC FI predicts damage accrual in incident SLE, which further supports the SLICC FI as a valid health measure in SLE.
Spatiotemporal and deterioration assessment of water main failures
Authors: Martínez García Diego , Lee Juneseok , Keck Jonathan , Yang Paul , Guzzetta Robert
Published: October 2019

Many water utilities are experiencing high failure rates in their drinking water distribution water mains, and the consequence of these failures can be severe in terms of social, economic, environmental, and reputational outcomes. This study analyzed clustering‐based spatiotemporal failure patterns in six selected water service areas in California. Water main failure hot spot zones that are of concern were identified, and a time‐dependent Poisson process was further used to assess associated deterioration patterns. These findings can help water utilities make more informed strategic, tactical, operational, and contingency decisions regarding asset management activities in the global pursuit of providing higher levels of service to customers.
The Fluorescence Behavior Studies and Applications of Two D‐π‐A Type Imidazolium Analogs
Authors: Zhai Beibei , Hossain Mohammad Kawsar , Hu Ziwei , Liu Bing , Li Wei , Gao Chao
Published: October 2019

The fluorescence behaviors and applications of two water‐soluble imidazolium analogs TPI‐1 and TPI‐2 with D‐π‐A structures have been studied. Compound TPI‐1 possessed the aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) effect, but TPI‐2 not. Moreover, compound TPI‐1 could serve as a fluorescence turn‐on probe for detecting uridine‐5'‐triphosphate (UTP) in living cells by AIE mechanism, while TPI‐2 was able to penetrate into the cell membranes and light up the living cells.
Analysis of tizoxanide, active metabolite of nitazoxanide, in rat brain tissue and plasma by UHPLC–MS/MS
Authors: Guo Sixun , Li Fang , Wang Bin , Zhao Yilei , Wang Xiaoxiong , Wei Hua , Yu Kaijiang , Hai Xin
Published: October 2019

Tizoxanide, the active metabolite of nitazoxanide, has recently been reported as an effective agent for the treatment of glioma. As there had been no report about the analysis of tizoxanide in brain tissue, we established extraction and UHPLC–MS/MS methods to quantify tizoxanide in rat brain and plasma to evaluate the brain‐to‐plasma ratio of tizoxanide. The biological samples were mainly prepared by acetonitrile and the separation was performed on a Waters XBridge® BEH C18 column. The mobile phase was composed of water mixed with 10 mm ammonium formate (pH 3.0) and acetonitrile according a gradient volume. Tizoxanide and topiramate (internal standard) were monitored utilizing negative electron spray ionization in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The methods were validated to be precise and accurate within the dynamic range of 5–1000 ng/mL and 0.2–50 ng/g for plasma and brain tissue samples, respectively. The lower limit of quantitation of the method was 0.2 ng/g, which was far more sensitive than all existing methods to quantify tizoxanide in biological samples. Application performed on rats exhibited that the brain‐to‐plasma ratio of tizoxanide ranged from 3.16 to 26.86% in 1 h after administration of 10 mg/kg nitazoxanide.
Correlation between GRIK2 rs6922753, rs2227283 polymorphism and aggressive behaviors with Bipolar Mania in the Chinese Han population
Authors: Ma Haibo , Xun Guanglei , Zhang Renyun , Yang Xiaohua , Cao Yu
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Animal studies have shown that glutamate receptor ionotropic kainate 2 (GRIK2) gene knockout mice are more impulsive and aggressive. This study aims to verify whether the rs6922753 and rs2227283 polymorphisms of the GRIK2 gene are associated with both aggressive behavior and bipolar mania in the Chinese Han population.

Methods

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied in the genotype rs6922753 and rs2227283 polymorphisms of the GRIK2 gene in 201 bipolar manic patients with aggressive behaviors, 198 bipolar manic patients without aggressive behaviors, and 132 healthy controls. The Modified Overt Aggression Scale (MOAS) was used to evaluate aggressive behavior in patients with bipolar mania.

Results

No correlation was found between aggressive behavior and the rs6922753 polymorphism in the three groups. The A/A genotype and A allele of the rs2227283 polymorphism were found significantly more frequently in patients with aggressive behavior than in healthy controls (p = .004 and p = .013, respectively) and in patients with nonaggressive behavior (p = .002 and p = .018, respectively). The A/A genotype and A allele were associated with an increased risk of aggressive behavior.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the rs2227283 polymorphism of the GRIK2 gene is related to aggressive behaviors in bipolar manic patients and that the A/A genotype and A allele may increase the risk of the aggressive behavior in bipolar manic patients.
Fungicidal Activity of Essential Oils from Cinnamomum cassia against the Pathogenic Fungi of Panax notoginseng Diseases
Authors: Ma Yu‐Nan , Chen Chuan‐Jiao , Li Qingqing , Wang Wei , Xu Fu‐Rong , Cheng Yong‐Xian , Dong Xian
Published: October 2019

The frequent disease of Panax notoginseng caused by the pathogenic fungi in field cultivation has become the major threaten to the sustainable development of it. The present study was conducted to find natural agent with potential inhibition against pathogen. Therefore, the inhibitory effects of Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J.Presl essential oils (EOs) against P. notoginseng associated pathogenic fungi were conducted both in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results of the Oxford cup test revealed that C. cassia dry bark EO (50 mg/mL) had significant inhibitory activity on the growth of all tested fungi, and the growth of various pathogens was completely inhibited, except for that of Fusarium solani. Therefore, the constituents of C. cassia EOs were analyzed by GC/MS, and the research demonstrated that the main constituents of C. cassia dry bark EO were trans‐cinnamaldehyde (75.65 %), (E)‐2‐methoxycinnamaldehyde (6.08 %), cinnamaldehyde (3.47 %) and cinnamyl acetate (1.02 %). The MIC results showed that C. cassia dry bark EO and the main compounds had good antifungal effect on the tested strains, and the inhibitory effect was similar to that of hymexazol (chemical pesticide). By analyzing the value of the fraction inhibitory concentration index (FICI), additive effects, irrelevant effects and synergistic effects were observed after the mixture of hymexazol against various pathogens. Moreover, in vivo model showed that C. cassia dry bark EO could reduce the occurrence of anthrax in P. notoginseng. To widen the resources of C. cassia available, the compositions of both C. cassia fresh bark and leaf EOs were also tested and many common compositions existed among them. Taken together, it was concluded that C. cassia EO had the potential use in the field to reduce the pathogenic disease.
In‐hospital outcome of peripheral vascular intervention in dialysis‐dependent end‐stage renal disease patients
Authors: Moussa Pacha Homam , Al‐khadra Yasser , Darmoch Fahed , Soud Mohamad , Mamas Mamas A. , Moussa Pacha Abdulghani , Zaitoun Anwar , Kaki Amir , AlJaroudi Wael A. , Alraies M. Chadi
Published: October 2019

Background

The impact of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) on peripheral vascular intervention (PVI) outcome remains incompletely elucidated.

Objectives

We sought to compare the outcome of PVI in dialysis patients with those with normal kidney function.

Methods

Using weighted data from the National Inpatient Sample database between 2002 and 2014, we identified all peripheral artery disease (PAD) patients aged ≥18 years that underwent PVI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to examine in‐hospital outcomes.

Results

Of 1,186,192 patients who underwent PVI, 1,066,830 had normal kidney function (89.9%) and 119,362 had ESRD requiring dialysis (10.1%). Critical limb ischemia was more prevalent in dialysis patients (63.2 vs. 34.0%, p < .001). Compared with normal kidney function group, ESRD requiring dialysis was associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (1.5 vs. 4.2%, adjusted OR: 2.13 [95% CI: 2.04–2.23]) and longer length of hospital stay (median 3 days, Interquartile range [IQR] (0–6) vs. 7 days, IQR (4–18); p < .001). Dialysis patients had higher incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (composite of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke; 14.3 vs. 9.8%, p < .001) and net adverse cardiovascular events (composite of MACE, major bleeding, or vascular complications; 40.8 vs. 29.1%, p < .001). ESRD patients less frequently underwent open bypass (5.6 vs. 8.5%, p < .001) and more frequently had major amputation (10.3 vs. 3.0%, p < .001) compared with normal kidney function group.

Conclusion

PAD patients on dialysis who underwent PVI have higher rates of mortality and adverse outcomes as compared to those with normal kidney function.
Improved Photoactivities of Large‐surface‐area g‐C3N4 for CO2 Conversion by Controllably Introducing Co‐ and Ni‐Species to Effectively Modulate Photogenerated Charges
Authors: Zhang Xuliang , Zhang Xinxin , Ali Wajid , Chen Xiaowei , Hu Kang , Li Zhijun , Qu Yang , Bai Linlu , Gao Yiwen , Jing Liqiang
Published: October 2019

Simultaneously modulating photogenerated electrons and holes by introducing transitional metals species on carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) are highly desired for effectively photocatalytic converting CO2. Herein, a cyanuric acid‐melamine preassembled approach is developed to obtain large‐surface‐area g‐C3N4 with high photoactivity for CO2 conversion, and its photoactivity is improved by controllably modifying Co‐species during the synthetic process of g‐C3N4, attributed to its hole capture capability and catalytic capability for water oxidation. Moreover, the photoactivity is further improved by decorating Ni‐species on g‐C3N4, attributed to its electron capture capability and catalytic capability for CO2 reduction. Noticeably, simultaneously modulating holes and electrons displays a noticeable synergy on improving photocatalytic activities. Interestingly, the photoactivity of amount‐optimized Co and Ni co‐modified g‐C3N4 is 3.1‐time higher than that of pristine g‐C3N4, with the quantum efficiency improvement of 4.5 time at 405 nm. This work will provide a feasible way of simultaneously modulating electrons and holes to fabricate high‐performance g‐C3N4‐based nano‐sized photocatalysts for CO2 conversion.
Electrochemical Synthesis of Ammonia Based on a Perovskite LaCrO3 Catalyst
Authors: Ohrelius Mathilda , Guo Haoran , Xian Haohong , Yu Guangsen , Alshehri Abdulmohsen Ali , Alzahrani Khalid Ahmad , Li Tingshuai , Andersson Martin
Published: October 2019

Electrochemical synthesis of ammonia through the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) has the possibility to revolutionize our production of ammonia and to save our planet from both emissions and large energy consumption. In this study, a perovskite structured lanthanum chromite catalyst (LaCrO3) is synthesized, characterized as well as electrochemically evaluated for NRR. The highest ammonia yield is obtained at −0.8 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode with an ammonia formation rate of 24.8 μg h−1 mg−1cat, and a Faradaic efficiency of 15 %. Material calculation further confirms the possible mechanism of ammonia formation with the aid of LaCrO3 catalyst. The resulting conclusion offers a great alternative with the easily produced and low‐cost perovskite structured electrocatalysts for ammonia production.
Polyoxometalates‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks Made by Electrodeposition and Carbonization Methods as Cathodes and Anodes for Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Yao‐Zhi , Yao Wei , Gan Hong‐Mei , Sun Chun‐Yi , Su Zhong‐Min , Wang Xin‐Long
Published: October 2019

Hybrid materials have obtained well‐deserved attention for energy storage devices, because they show high capacitances and high energy densities induced by the synergistic effect between complementary components. Polyoxometalate‐based metal–organic frameworks (POMOFs) possess the abundant redox‐active sites and ordered structures of polyoxometalates (POMs) and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), respectively. Here, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) NENU‐5/PPy/60//FeMo/C was fabricated in which both its electrodes are prepared from POMOF precursors. A typical POMOF material, NENU‐5, was first connected with polypyrrole (PPy) through electrodeposition to form the cathode material NENU‐5/PPy. Another representative POMOFs material, PMo12@MIL‐100, was carbonized to obtain the anode material FeMo/C. Cathode NENU‐5/PPy exhibited an extraordinary capacitance of 508.62 F g−1 (areal capacitance: 2034.51 mF cm−2). In addition, anode FeMo/C shows excellent cyclic stability attributed to its unique structure. Finally, benefiting from the outstanding capacitances and structural merits of the anode and cathode, assembled asymmetric supercapacitor NENU‐5/PPy/60//FeMo/C achieves an energy density of 1.12 mWh cm−3 at a power density output of 27.78 mW cm−3, as well as a notable life of 10 000 cycles with an capacity retention of 80.62 %. Thus, the unique ASC is strongly competitive in high capacitance, long cycle life, and high energy‐required energy storage devices.
A Facile Route for Constructing Effective Cu−Nx Active Sites for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Li Jingjing , Xia Wei , Wang Tao , Zheng Lirong , Lai Yue , Pan Junjie , Jiang Cheng , Song Li , Wang Mengyu , Zhang Huting , Chen Na , Chen Guang , He Jianping
Published: October 2019

The coordination number between copper and nitrogen in copper/nitrogen‐based electrocatalysts is important for boosting the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, it is difficult to control unsaturated copper/nitrogen constructions as well as to compare their ORR performances in similar carbon matrices in a simple yet efficient manner. In this study, we have easily attained two types of Cu+−N2 and Cu2+−N4 constructions simply by etching pyrolyzed Cu‐doped zeolitic imidazolate framework nanoleaves (Cu‐ZIF‐L) with sulfuric acid or nitric acid, respectively. X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra were recorded to further confirm the different copper/nitrogen constructions after the different acid treatments. Electrochemical studies have demonstrated that Cu+−N2 sites are more active in boosting the ORR performance than Cu2+−N4 sites. Furthermore, Cu−N/C−H2SO4, used as an air cathode in a zinc‐air battery, exhibited excellent performance and stability.
In Situ Metal‐Assisted Ligand Modification Induces Mn4 Cluster‐to‐Cluster Transformation: A Crystallography, Mass Spectrometry, and DFT Study
Authors: Zhang Yu‐Yi , Zhang De‐Shan , Li Tian , Kurmoo Mohamedally , Zeng Ming‐Hua
Published: October 2019

Dehydration of (S,S)‐1,2‐bis(1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)ethane‐1,2‐diol (H4L) to (Z)‐1,2‐bis(1H‐benzo[d]imidazol‐2‐yl)ethenol) (H3L′) was found to be metal‐assisted, occurs under solvothermal conditions (H2O/CH3OH), and leads to [MnII4(H3L)4Cl2]Cl2⋅5 H2O⋅5 CH3OH (Mn4L4) and [MnII4(H2L′)6(μ3‐OH)]Cl⋅4 CH3OH⋅H2O (Mn4L′6), respectively. Their structures were determined by single‐crystal XRD. Extensive ESI‐MS studies on solutions and solids of the reaction led to the proposal consisting of an initial stepwise assembly of Mn4L4 from the reactants via [MnL] and [Mn2L2] below 80 °C, and then disassembly to [MnL] and [MnL2] followed by ligand modification before reassembly to Mn4L′6 via [MnL′], [MnL′2], and [Mn2L′3] with increasing solvothermal temperature up to 140 °C. Identification of intermediates [Mn4LxL′6−x] (x=5, 4, 3, 2, 1) in the process further suggested an assembly/disassembly/in situ reaction/reassembly transformation mechanism. These results not only reveal that multiple phase transformations are possible even though they were not realized in the crystalline state, but also help to better understand the complex transformation process between coordination clusters during “black‐box” reactions.
Recent Progress in Organic–Inorganic Composite Solid Electrolytes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Zhang Dechao , Xu Xijun , Qin Yanlin , Ji Shaomin , Huo Yanping , Wang Zhuosen , Liu Zhengbo , Shen Jiadong , Liu Jun
Published: October 2019

Conventional lithium‐ion batteries, with flammable organic liquid electrolytes, have serious safety problems, which greatly limit their application. All‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) have received extensive attention from large‐scale energy‐storage fields, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and intelligent power grids, due to their benefits in safety, energy density, and thermostability. As the key component of ASSBs, solid electrolytes determine the properties of ASSBs. In past decades, various kinds of solid electrolytes, such as polymers and inorganic electrolytes, have been explored. Among these candidates, organic–inorganic composite solid electrolytes (CSEs) that integrate the advantages of these two different electrolytes have been regarded as promising electrolytes for high‐performance ASSBs, and extensive studies have been carried out. Herein, recent progress in organic–inorganic CSEs is summarized in terms of the inorganic component, electrochemical performance, effects of the inorganic ceramic nanostructure, and ionic conducting mechanism. Finally, the main challenges and perspectives of organic–inorganic CSEs are highlighted for future development.
Physical fitness and neurocognitive outcomes in adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report from the St. Jude Lifetime cohort
Authors: Phillips Nicholas S. , Howell Carrie R. , Lanctot Jennifer Q. , Partin Robyn E. , Pui Ching‐Hon , Hudson Melissa M. , Robison Leslie L. , Krull Kevin R. , Ness Kirsten K.
Published: October 2019

Background

Survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are at increased risk for both treatment‐related exercise intolerance and neurocognitive deficits. This analysis aimed to identify the association between exercise intolerance and neurocognitive impairments in ALL survivors.

Methods

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing, results from a 2‐hour standardized neuropsychological assessment, and self‐report questionnaires were obtained for 341 adult survivors of childhood ALL and 288 controls. Multivariable modeling was used to test associations between oxygen uptake at 85% estimated heart rate (rpkVO2) and neuropsychological test and self‐reported questionnaire domains, adjusted for sex, age at diagnosis, cranial radiation, anthracycline, and methotrexate exposure and tobacco smoking status.

Results

Compared with controls, survivors had worse rpkVO2 and performance on verbal intelligence, focused attention, verbal fluency, working memory, dominant/nondominant motor speed, visual‐motor speed, memory span, and reading and math measures (all P < .001). In adjusted models, exercise intolerance was associated with decreases in performance of verbal ability, focused attention, verbal fluency, working memory, dominant motor speed, nondominant motor speed, visual‐motor speed, memory span, reading academics, and math academics in survivors.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an association between exercise intolerance and neurocognitive outcomes. Research is needed to determine whether interventions that improve exercise tolerance impact neurocognitive function in ALL survivors.
A barrier optimization framework for NUMA multi‐core system
Authors: Yi ZhengMing , Chen Fei , Yao YiPing
Published: October 2019

Parallel program performance often critically depends on barrier performance. In modern NUMA multi‐core machines, barrier synchronization performance is significantly affected by cache‐coherence communication between cores, especially when the scale of NUMA systems is large, complex interconnected networks, memory hierarchies, and cache‐coherence protocols make optimization of barrier algorithm hard.

We propose a general barrier optimization framework on NUMA multi‐core machines. The framework splits the barrier into three stages: the barrier arrival within a NUMA node, the barrier arrival across the NUMA nodes, and the wakeup, providing an opportunity to optimize the communication pattern and the cache‐line placement in each stage. To reduce remote communication traffic, we introduce a coordinator per NUMA node. In addition, we implement two barrier algorithms based on the framework. Finally, we show the superiority of the barrier algorithms within our framework over other barrier algorithms and show how to translate a barrier algorithm into a performance model to help make an optimal tradeoff design. Experiments were conducted on three NUMA multi‐core platforms and the results show that the barrier algorithm optimized within our framework is sufficient to deliver as good or better performance than state‐of‐art approaches on NUMA multi‐core machines.
Stereochemistry, Stereodynamics, and Redox and Complexation Behaviors of 2,2′‐Diaryl‐1,1′‐Biazulenes
Authors: Tsuchiya Takahiro , Katsuoka Yuka , Yoza Kenji , Sato Hiroyasu , Mazaki Yasuhiro
Published: October 2019

Invited for this month's cover are Takahiro Tsuchiya and Yasuhiro Mazaki, and their colleague Yuka Katsuoka, from Kitasato University, Japan, along with collaborators from Bruker Japan (Kenji Yoza) and Rigaku Corporation (Hiroyasu Sato). The cover picture shows the twisted structure of 2,2′‐di(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1,1′‐biazulenes, which form a 3:3 cyclic complex with PdCl2. The rotation of the bonds at the 1,1′‐positions of the azulene subunits was padlocked by the complexation. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201900262.
How can eDNA contribute in riverine macroinvertebrate assessment? A metabarcoding approach in the Nalón River (Asturias, Northern Spain)
Authors: Fernández Sara , Rodríguez‐Martínez Saúl , Martínez Jose L. , Garcia‐Vazquez Eva , Ardura Alba
Published: October 2019

Background

Bioassessment of rivers is a fundamental method to determine surface water quality. One of the groups most commonly employed as bioindicators of aquatic ecosystems are benthic macroinvertebrates. Their conventional assessment is based on morphological identification and entails several limitations, such as being time‐consuming and requires trained experts for taxonomic identification. The use of genetic tools to solve these limitations offers an alternative way to evaluate rivers status. The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding has increased in recent years for different purposes, but its use in water quality evaluation is yet to be tested. Here, morphological and eDNA based inventories of macroinvertebrates were compared from the same seven sampling sites in the Upper Nalón River Basin (Asturias, Spain).

Materials & Methods

High‐Throughput Sequencing (HTS) of the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene was carried out on DNA from water samples using an Ion Torrent platform. Biotic water quality indices were calculated from morphological and molecular data and compared with independent physico‐chemical habitat assessment to validate eDNA based approach.

Results

Highly positive and significant correlation was found between eDNA metabarcoding and morphological methods (Morphological and eDNA indices, r = 0.798, 5 degrees of freedom d.f., P = 0.031;) and a highly significant negative correlation was found between molecular and habitat quality indices (Stress score & eDNA, ρ = ‐0.878 and P = 0.009; Stress score & Visual, ρ = ‐0.949 and P = 0.0002).

Discussion

The similarity of results from the two approaches and the correlation of eDNA metabarcoding data with the habitat quality indices, suggest that eDNA performs as well as conventional methods for calculating biotic indices in this system, positioning eDNA metabarcoding of macroinvertebrate communities to transform how river bioassessment can be achieved.

Conclusion

The usefulness of eDNA metabarcoding to assess rivers water quality based on macroinvertebrates assessment has been demonstrated in a dammed river basin.
4‐π‐Photocyclization: Scope and Synthetic Applications
Authors: Coote Susannah C.
Published: October 2019

This minireview highlights the scope of 4‐π‐photocyclizations (photoinduced electrocyclizations that involve 4 pi electrons and generate bicyclic cyclobutenes from 1,3‐dienes), including an overview of the historical progressions as well as recent developments. A range of 1,3‐diene substrates is covered, including cycloheptatrienes, tropones, tropolones, cyclic 1,3‐dienes, 2‐pyrones, 2‐pyridones, pyrimidines, 1,2‐dihydropyridines, and 1,2‐dihydro‐pyridazines. The bicyclic cyclobutene products formed through the photocyclizations are highly versatile synthetic intermediates, and examples of the application of these building blocks in the context of synthetic methodology development, natural product synthesis, medicinal chemistry and materials chemistry are featured throughout.
Simulating bubble dynamics in a buoyant system
Authors: Arai Erin , Villafranco Dorien , Grace Sheryl , Ryan Emily
Published: October 2019

Multiphase flows are critical components of many physical systems; however, numerical models of multiphase flows with large parameter gradients can be challenging. Here, two different numerical methods, volume of fluid (VOF) and smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), are used to model the buoyant rise of isolated gas bubbles through quiescent fluids for a range of Bond and Reynolds numbers. The VOF is an Eulerian grid–based method, whereas the SPH is Lagrangian and mesh free. Each method has unique strengths and weaknesses, and a comparison of the two approaches as applied to multiphase phenomena has not previously been performed. The VOF and SPH simulations are compared, verified, and validated. Results using two‐dimensional VOF and SPH simulations are similar to each other and are able to reproduce numerical benchmarks and experimental results for sufficiently large Morton and Reynolds numbers. It is also shown that at low Reynolds numbers, the two methods, SPH and VOF, diverge in the transient regime of the bubble rise. Regimes that require simulations capable of representing three‐dimensional drag are identified as well as regimes in which results from VOF and SPH diverge.
Isolation and identification of lactic acid bacteria with phytase activity from sourdough
Authors: Mohammadi‐Kouchesfahani Matin , Hamidi‐Esfahani Zohreh , Azizi Mohammad Hossein
Published: October 2019

Wholemeal bread is strongly recommended due to its nutritional value. However, whole‐grain foods contain a high level of phytic acid, an antinutritional factor that decreases the mineral bioavailability. The objective of this study was isolation and identification of lactic acid bacteria with phytase activity to find a suitable starter for bread‐making. Wheat–legume sourdoughs were prepared by the back‐slopping procedure. Lactic acid bacteria were isolated from the sourdough of wheat flour–mung bean, and their phytase activity was tested in the solid and liquid media. Out of the nine phytase‐active isolates in the solid medium, only three isolates produced extracellular phytase in the liquid medium with activity ranging from 16.3 to 53.2 (U/ml). These isolates belonged to species Weissella confusa mk.zh95 and Pediococcus pentosaceus. The highest phytase activity was found for Weissella confusa mk.zh95. Weissella confusa mk.zh95 is considered an interesting source of phytase during cereals and legumes fermentation which improves the bioavailability of minerals.
Impact of human papillomavirus status on survival and recurrence in a geographic region with a low prevalence of HPV‐related cancer: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: De Cicco Rafael , de Melo Menezes Rosilene , Nicolau Ulisses R. , Pinto Clovis A. L. , Villa Luisa L. , Kowalski Luiz P.
Published: October 2019

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is associated with better tumor‐response rates and survival outcomes. However, in some geographic regions, the impact of HPV infection on prognosis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the patterns of recurrence and survival among patients treated for OPSCC in a geographic region with a reported low prevalence of HPV‐related OPSCC.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 215 patients diagnosed with American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stages I to IV OPSCC who were treated with upfront surgery or radiation therapy with or without chemotherapy in a tertiary Cancer Center in Brazil. The collected data included demographic information, HPV status, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and pathologic and treatment variables. The patterns of recurrence were recorded according to HPV status. Disease‐specific survival and recurrence‐free survival were calculated.

Results

One hundred twenty‐seven (59.1%) patients were diagnosed with HPV‐positive OPSCC. According to the AJCC eighth edition, 34 (15.8%), 71 (33%), 47 (21.9%), and 60 (27.9%) patients had stage I, II, III, and IV disease, respectively. Surgery was performed in 109 (50.7%) cases, and upfront chemoradiation regimens were provided in 104 (48.4%, P = .69) patients. Overall, the 5‐year cancer‐specific survival was 73.5% and 68.1% for patients positive and negative to HPV, respectively. Tobacco status was considered the only independent prognostic factor for survival. Furthermore, HPV status was not associated with differences in recurrence rates (P = .68). While all distant relapses were found to be lung metastases in the HPV‐negative group, we observed unusual sites of distant metastases in the HPV‐positive group.

Conclusions

HPV status was not associated with higher rates of survival among the investigated population. Moreover, smoking status was considered the only independent prognostic factor for survival. Furthermore, patients with HPV‐positive tumors were more likely than patients with HPV‐negative OPSCC to have unusual distant metastases.
Association of PD‐L1 expression status with the efficacy of PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors and overall survival in solid tumours: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Xi , Guo Chang‐Ying , Tou Fang‐Fang , Wen Xiao‐Ming , Kuang Yu‐Kang , Zhu Qian , Hu Hao
Published: October 2019

Whether PD‐L1‐positive patients derive more overall survival benefit from PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors in the treatment of advanced solid tumours is unclear. We systematically searched the PubMed, Cochrane library and EMBASE databases from January 1, 1966 to March 1, 2019, to identify randomised controlled trials of PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors (nivolumab, pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, durvalumab and avelumab) that had available hazard ratios (HRs) for death according to PD‐L1 status. A random‐effects model was used to calculate the pooled overall survival (OS) HR and 95% CI among PD‐L1‐positive and PD‐L1‐negative patients. An interaction test was performed to evaluate the heterogeneity between the two estimates. A total of 24 randomised trials, involving 12,966 participants, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. An OS benefit of PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors was found in both PD‐L1‐positive patients (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.60–0.70) and PD‐L1‐negative patients (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.74–0.91) even at the minimum cut‐off value of 1%. Significant differences in the efficacy of PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors between PD‐L1‐positive and PD‐L1‐negative patients were noted at different cut‐off values. Moreover, there was a positive dose–response relationship between PD‐L1 positivity and OS benefit (HR for 1%, 0.58, [0.50, 0.67]; 5%, 0.52 [0.43, 0.64]; 10%, 0.50 [0.40, 0.63]). Subgroup analyses showed that these results were generally consistent, regardless of study design, line of treatment, treatment type, tumour type, PD‐L1 staining cell type and median follow‐up time. We demonstrated that PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors significantly improved OS in both PD‐L1 positive and PD‐L1 negative patients compared to controls, but the magnitude of benefit was clinically PD‐L1‐dependent.
Circulating lncRNA SNHG11 as a novel biomarker for early diagnosis and prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Wei , Zhou Gai , Wang Huizhi , Liu Yawen , Chen Baoding , Chen Wei , Lin Chen , Wu Shuhui , Gong Aihua , Xu Min
Published: October 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Emerging evidence indicates that tumour cells release substantial amounts of RNA into the bloodstream, in which RNA strongly resists RNases and is present at sufficient levels for quantitative analyses. Our study aimed to discover blood‐based markers for the early detection of CRC and to ascertain their efficiency in discriminating healthy controls, patients with polyps and adenomas and cancer patients. We first analysed and screened ZFAS1, SNHG11, LINC00909 and LINC00654 in a bioinformatics database and then collected clinical plasma samples for preliminary small‐scale analysis and further large‐scale verification. We then explored the mechanism of dominant lncRNA SNHG11 expression in CRC by in vitro and in vivo assays. The combination of ZFAS1, SNHG11, LINC00909 and LINC00654 showed high diagnostic performance for CRC (AUC: 0.937), especially early‐stage disease (AUC: 0.935). Plasma levels of the four candidate lncRNAs were significantly reduced in postoperative samples compared to preoperative samples. A panel including these four lncRNAs performed well in distinguishing patient groups with different stages of colon disease, and SNHG11 exhibited the greatest diagnostic ability to identify precancerous lesions and early‐stage tumour formation. Mechanistically, high SNHG11 expression promotes proliferation and metastasis by targeting the Hippo pathway. Taken together, the data indicate that SNHG11 may be a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of CRC and a potential biomarker for the early detection of CRC.
Cell transfer‐based immunotherapies in cancer: A review
Authors: Gorabi Armita M. , Hajighasemi Saeideh , Sathyapalan Thozhukat , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: October 2019

In cell transfer therapy (CTT), immune cells such as innate immune‐derived natural killer cells and dendritic cells as well as acquired immune‐related T lymphocytes such as tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes and cytokine‐activated or genetically modified peripheral blood T cells are used in the management of cancer. These therapies are increasingly becoming the most used treatment modality in cancer after tumor resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. In adoptive cell transfer, the lymphocytes isolated from either a donor or the patient are modified ex vivo and reinfused to target malignant cells. Transferring in vitro‐manipulated immune cells produces a continuous antitumor immune response. In this review, we evaluate the recent advances in CTT for the management of various malignancies.
MicroRNA‐19a attenuates hypoxia‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by downregulating NHE‐1 expression and decreasing calcium overload
Authors: Ma Jiaqi , Chen Zhangwei , Ma Yuanji , Xia Yan , Hu Kai , Zhou You , Chen Ao , Qian Juying , Ge Junbo
Published: October 2019

miR‐19a has been shown to be involved in coronary microvascular obstruction injury; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. In our study, we tried to explore the role of miR‐19a in cardiomyocyte apoptosis and calcium overload in vivo and in vitro induced by hypoxia. We established the acute myocardial infarction (AMI) rat model by ligating the left anterior descending artery. The expression of miR‐19a in the infarct zone of AMI rats and myocardial tissue in the same position in sham rats was analyzed using RT‐qPCR while Na(+)/H(+) exchanger 1 (NHE‐1) was detected by Western blotting. We also observed the effects of overexpressing miR‐19a or administering an NHE‐1 inhibitor (cariporide) on hypoxia‐induced (HI) calcium overload and apoptosis in primary cardiomyocytes. In addition, dual‐luciferase reporter assays were conducted to investigate the potential target of miR‐19a on NHE‐1. Decreased miR‐19a expression, as well as increased apoptosis and NHE‐1 expression, were observed in the AMI model. Furthermore, after hypoxia stimulation, miR‐19a was gradually reduced as time increased in primary cardiomyocytes. Overexpressing miR‐19a using mimics ameliorated the increase in NHE‐1 in hypoxic cardiomyocytes and thereby reduced the HI cell calcium overload and cell apoptosis rate from 12.32% to 9.5% (P < .01). In addition, the dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay results verified that NHE‐1 was the direct target of miR‐19a. Our findings suggest that miR‐19a activation can attenuate HI cardiomyocyte apoptosis by downregulating NHE‐1 expression and decreasing calcium overload.
Vertical interval between hepatic segment of inferior vena cava and right atrium predicts intraoperative blood loss during hemi‐hepatectomy
Authors: Sakamoto Katsunori , Ogawa Kohei , Matsui Takashi , Utsunomiya Takeshi , Honjo Masahiko , Ueno Yoshitomo , Tamura Kei , Inoue Hitoshi , Takai Akihiro , Takada Yasutsugu
Published: October 2019

Background

Intraoperative bleeding is a major issue for hepatic surgeons because large intraoperative blood loss causes poor patient outcome. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of intraoperative bleeding during hemi‐hepatectomy.

Methods

This study enrolled 45 living donors for liver transplantation (cohort 1) and 44 patients with various conditions (cohort 2) who underwent hemi‐hepatectomy at Ehime University Hospital between January 2010 and March 2019 (Approval number: 1810024). The gap between the ventral horizontal line of the inferior vena cava (IVC) confluent with the right atrium (RA) and the dorsal horizontal line of the hepatic segment of the IVC (IVC‐RA gap) was determined from preoperative images. Cardiopulmonary and liver functions were investigated as potential predictors of intraoperative estimated blood loss (iEBL).

Results

The IVC‐RA gap positively correlated with iEBL in cohorts 1 and 2 (r = 0.453, P = 0.002 and r = 0.443, P = 0.003, respectively), and multivariate analysis selected the IVC‐RA gap as an independent predictor of iEBL >400 ml in cohorts 1 and 2 (odds ratios 1.177 and 1.115; 95% confidence intervals 1.041–1.330 and 1.007–1.234; P = 0.009 and P = 0.036, respectively).

Conclusions

The IVC‐RA gap is a novel and simple predictor of iEBL.
Proposal of the minimal number of retrieved regional lymph nodes for accurate staging of distal bile duct cancer and clinical validation of the three‐tier lymph node staging system (AJCC 8th edition)
Authors: Kang Jae Seung , Higuchi Ryota , He Jin , Yamamoto Masakazu , Wolfgang Christopher L. , Cameron John L. , Han Youngmin , Son Donghee , Lee Seungyeon , Choi Yoo Jin , Byun Yoonhyeong , Kim Hongbeom , Kwon Wooil , Kim Sun‐Whe , Park Taesung , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: October 2019

Background

The minimal required number of retrieved lymph nodes (MNRLNs) to enable accurate staging of distal bile duct (DBD) adenocarcinoma remains unclear. The three‐tier 8th N staging system of the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) for DBD adenocarcinoma has been recently released. The present study is aimed at proposing the MNRLNs for accurate staging and validating the 8th N stage.

Methods

Between 1991 and 2015, patients with pathologically confirmed DBD adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy were enrolled. MNRLN was calculated via a log‐rank test based on cut‐off values. The concordance index (C‐index) was utilized to compare the discrimination capability of the two‐ and three‐tier N stages.

Results

A total of 780 patients were enrolled. Lymph node (LN) positivity and 5‐year overall survival (5‐YOS) rates stabilized and significant survival differences between node‐negative and –positive patients were observed when ≥12 LNs were retrieved. 5‐YOS rates between each 8th N stage significantly differ (N0 vs. N1, P = 0.037; N1 vs. N2, P = 0.003). The C‐index of the 8th N stage was higher than that of the 7th (0.59 vs. 0.57).

Conclusions

For accurate staging, at least 12 LNs should be retrieved. The three‐tier N staging system is valid for clinical practice and has a more accurate prognostic predictability than the two‐tier system.
Unique features of the skin barrier in naked mole rats reflect adaptations to their fossorial habitat
Authors: Menon Gopinathan K. , Catania Kenneth C. , Crumrine Debra , Bradley Charles , Mauldin Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2019

The stratum corneum (SC), the top layer of the epidermis, is the functional site of the skin barrier and serves to maintain hydration of the body by preventing water loss and thwarting the entrance of pathogens. The naked mole rat (NMR) (Heterocephalus glaber) is a rodent that resides in hypoxic underground tunnels in arid Africa. NMRs are not only hairless; their skin is devoid of glands and pain sensation. To understand how the skin barrier of the NMR is uniquely adapted to this environment, skin samples from the dorsum and ventral abdomen in one adult and one neonate were examined by transmission electron microscopy using both reduced osmium tetroxide to assess overall structure and ruthenium tetroxide post‐fixation to assess lipid organization. These findings were compared with that of hairless mice—a well‐defined model for skin barrier studies. The plasticity of the skin was evaluated on 10 NMRs from a colony at the Philadelphia Zoo in humid and dry conditions by measuring cutaneous hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and pH. The epidermal ultrastructure of the NMR differed from hairless mice by having the following features: decreased content of lamellar bodies (LBs), higher LB pleomorphism, periodic presence of abnormal lipid bilayers, and an unusually thick SC. The NMRs developed significant TEWL and a trend toward decreased hydration when subjected to dry conditions. While these features illustrate an imperfect skin barrier in terrestrial mammals, they likely represent adaptations of the poikilothermic NMRs to their unique natural fossorial climate. Prolonged exposure to decreased humidity could possibly lead to adverse health effects in this species.