bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Regulation and Enterprise Innovation: A Review
Authors: Shao Shuai , Hu Zhigao , Cao Jianhua , Yang Lili , Guan Dabo
Published: January 2020

The impact of environmental regulation on enterprise innovation is closely related to the competitiveness of the enterprise and sustainable development of the regional economy, but existing research does not provide a consistent view. This paper summarizes the impacts of environmental regulation on enterprise innovation from the perspectives of technological innovation, product innovation, system innovation and ecological innovation. We find that the impacts of environmental regulation on enterprise innovation behaviour are complex, and that the impacts can be reflected together by the four aspects above and even by their interaction. Moreover, the impacts are not limited to the creation of new technologies, products, and systems but also include their adoption and application. In particular, whether the Porter hypothesis is true and which versions of the Porter hypothesis environmental regulation causes in enterprise innovation depend on enterprise characteristics, means of environmental regulation, and enterprises' strategic behaviours in an enterprise ecosystem. Finally, we propose five potential research directions: quantifying the degree of enterprise innovation caused by environmental regulation, the impacts of environmental regulation on sustainable economic development from an enterprise ecosystem perspective, the impacts of enterprise innovation on environmental regulation, the role of enterprise initiative in the relationship between environmental regulation and enterprise innovation, and social security issues and the integration of eliminated enterprises resulting from environmental regulation.
A critical appraisal of Monro's erroneous description of the cerebral interventricular foramina: Age‐related magnetic resonance imaging spatial morphometry and a proposed new terminology
Authors: Matys Tomasz , Brown Fraser S , Zaccagna Fulvio , Kirollos Ramez W. , Massoud Tarik F.
Published: January 2020

Anatomic connections between the cerebral lateral and third ventricles have been mischaracterized since Monro's original erroneous description of his eponymous foramina (FoMs) as being only one T‐shaped passage. Accurate knowledge of the in vivo three‐dimensional (3D) configuration of FoM has important clinical neuroendoscopic, neurosurgical, and neuroimaging implications. We retrospectively analyzed volumetric high‐resolution brain magnetic resonance imaging of 100 normal individuals to characterize the normal spatial anatomy and morphometry for each FoM. We measured the true anatomical 3D angulations of FoMs relative to standard neuroimaging orthogonal planes, and their minimum width, depth, and distance between the medial borders of bilateral FoMs. The right and left FoMs were separate, distinct, and in a V‐shaped configuration. Each FoM was a round, oval, or crescent‐shaped canal‐like passage with well‐defined borders formed by the semicircular concavity of the ipsilateral forniceal column. The plane of FoM was angled on average 56.8° ± 9.1° superiorly from the axial plane, 22.5° ± 10.7° laterally, and 37.0° ± 6.9° anteriorly from the midsagittal plane; all these angles changing significantly with increasing age. The mean narrowest diameter of FoM was 2.8 ± 1.2 mm, and its depth was 2.5 ± 0.2 mm. Thus, the true size and orientation of FoM differs from that depicted on standard neuroimaging. Notably, in young subjects, FoM has a diameter smaller than its depth, a configuration akin to a short, small canal. We propose that the eponym “Monro” no longer be associated with this structure, and the term “foramen” be abandoned. Instead, FoM should be more appropriately renamed as the “interventricular canaliculus,” or IVC, for short.
Ex vivo virtual and 3D printing methods for evaluating an anatomy‐based spinal instrumentation technique for the 12th thoracic vertebra
Authors: Clifton William , Nottmeier Eric , ReFaey Karim , Damon Aaron , Vlasak Alexander , Tubbs R. Shane , Clifton Christopher L. , Pichelmann Mark
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Three‐dimensional printing and virtual simulation both provide useful methods of patient‐specific anatomical modeling for assessing and validating surgical techniques. A combination of these two methods for evaluating the feasibility of spinal instrumentation techniques based on anatomical landmarks has not previously been investigated.

Materials and Methods

Nineteen anonymized CT scans of the thoracic spine in adult patients were acquired. Maximum pedicle width and height were recorded, and statistical analysis demonstrated normal distributions. The images were converted into standard tessellation language (STL) files, and the T12 vertebrae were anatomically segmented. The intersection of two diagonal lines drawn from the lateral and medial borders of the T12 transverse process (TP) to the lateral border of the pars and inferolateral portion of the TP was identified on both sides of each segmented vertebra. A virtual screw was created and insertion into the pedicle on each side was simulated using the proposed landmarks. The vertebral STL files were then 3D‐printed, and 38 pedicles were instrumented according to the individual posterior landmarks used in the virtual investigation.

Results

There were no pedicle breaches using the proposed anatomical landmarks for insertion of T12 pedicle screws in the virtual simulation component. The technique was further validated by additive manufacturing of individual T12 vertebrae and demonstrated no breaches or model failures during live instrumentation using the proposed landmarks.

Conclusions

Ex vivo modeling through virtual simulation and 3D printing provides a powerful and cost‐effective means of replicating vital anatomical structures for investigation of complex surgical techniques.
Kambin's triangle and the position of the dorsal nerve root in the lumbar neural foramen
Authors: König Anya , Joseph Febin , Janse van Rensburg Charl , Myburgh Jolandie , Keough Natalie
Published: January 2020

Introduction

As a result of the increased utilization of neurosurgical arthroscopic techniques, investigations into population and sex‐specific trends of anatomical considerations have become increasingly important. This study aimed to investigate and describe aspects of the neuroanatomical morphometry of lumbar spines in a cadaveric and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sample.

Materials and Methods

Twenty white adult (>18 years) cadavers (9 males; 11 females) were obtained under Ethical clearance. The lumbar regions were dissected and the position of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and dimensions of Kambin's triangle were determined. Twenty‐six black adult (>18 years) MRI scans (17 males; 9 females) were obtained from an Academic Hospital and were used to determine the dimensions of the neural foramen and the DRGs within.

Results

The ganglia were mostly at the midline of the caudal pedicle. Similar to previous studies, the diagonal measurement from Kambin's triangle was the largest and the vertical measurement the shortest. Skeletal and soft‐tissue measurements indicated distinct trends when moving caudolaterally in the spine. Soft‐tissue parameters from the current study were within the upper limits of those from previous studies, whereas skeletal parameters were in agreement with those reported by previous authors.

Conclusions

Results from this study suggest a variation of certain parameters between studies with varying population groups and therefore supports the need for and the importance of possible population‐specific trends of anatomical parameters considered during surgical procedures.
Synthetic Approaches for Accessing Pseudaminic Acid (Pse) Bacterial Glycans
Authors: Flack Emily K. P. , Chidwick Harriet S. , Best Matthew , Thomas Gavin H. , Fascione Martin A.
Published: January 2020

Pseudaminic acids (Pses) are a group of non‐mammalian nonulosonic acids (nulOs) that have been shown to be an important virulence factor for a number of pathogenic bacteria, including emerging multidrug‐resistant ESKAPE pathogens. Despite their discovery over 30 years ago, relatively little is known about the biological significance of Pse glycans compared with their sialic acid analogues, primarily due to a lack of access to the synthetically challenging Pse architecture. Recently, however, the Pse backbone has been subjected to increasing synthetic exploration by carbohydrate (bio)chemists, and the total synthesis of complex Pse glycans achieved with inspiration from the biosynthesis and subsequent detailed study of chemical glycosylation by using Pse donors. Herein, context is provided for these efforts by summarising recent synthetic approaches pioneered for accessing Pse glycans, which are set to open up this underexplored area of glycoscience to the wider scientific community.
Improving the Performance of SiOx/Carbon Materials for High Energy Density Commercial Lithium‐Ion Batteries Based on Montmorillonite
Authors: Feng Lijuan , Song Jimei , Sun Chao , Liu Fangfang , Wang Yuanzhong
Published: January 2020

Silicon is recognized as the most promising anode material for the next‐generation battery. In order to improve the processing and electrochemical performances, a silicon‐based anode composite was synthesized using silicon, montmorillonite and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) as raw materials. The processing parameters, such as particle size and specific surface area, were ameliorated to be consistent with those of commercial lithium‐ion battery (LIB) anode materials. As an anode composite, it perfectly matched with high nickel ternary cathode materials and showed excellent electrochemical properties. The discharge capacities were all above 1000 mAh/g and the coulombic efficiency of each step was over 99 % throughout the 50 cycles at 1 C (1100 mA/g). Its superior performances are attributed to the unique layered structure, which buffers the volume expansion and enhances the stability of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) film on the anodic electrode, suggesting a perspective future in designing high energy density commercial LIBs.
BaP6N10NH:Eu2+ as a Case Study–An Imidonitridophosphate Showing Luminescence
Authors: Wendl Sebastian , Eisenburger Lucien , Zipkat Mirjam , Günther Daniel , Wright Jonathan P. , Schmidt Peter J. , Oeckler Oliver , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: January 2020

Barium imidonitridophosphate BaP6N10NH was synthesized at 5 GPa and 1000 °C with a high‐pressure high‐temperature approach using the multianvil technique. Ba(N3)2, P3N5 and NH4Cl were used as starting materials, applying a combination of azide and mineralizer routes. The structure elucidation of BaP6N10NH (P63, a=7.5633(11), c=8.512(2) Å, Z=2) was performed by a combination of transmission electron microscopy and single‐crystal diffraction with microfocused synchrotron radiation. Phase purity was verified by Rietveld refinement. 1H and 31P solid‐state NMR and FTIR spectroscopy are consistent with the structure model. The chemical composition was confirmed by energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and CHNS analyses. Eu2+‐doped samples of BaP6N10NH show blue emission upon excitation with UV to blue light (λem=460 nm, fwhm=2423 cm−1) representing unprecedented Eu2+‐luminescence of an imidonitride.
Is There a Single Ideal Parameter for Halogen‐Bonding‐Based Lewis Acidity?
Authors: Engelage Elric , Reinhard Dominik , Huber Stefan M.
Published: January 2020

Halogen‐bond donors (halogen‐based Lewis acids) have now found various applications in diverse fields of chemistry. The goal of this study was to identify a parameter obtainable from a single DFT calculation that reliably describes halogen‐bonding strength (Lewis acidity). First, several DFT methods were benchmarked against the CCSD(T) CBS binding data of complexes of 17 carbon‐based halogen‐bond donors with chloride and ammonia as representative Lewis bases, which revealed M05‐2X with a partially augmented def2‐TZVP(D) basis set as the best model chemistry. The best single parameter to predict halogen‐bonding strengths was the static σ‐hole depth, but it still provided inaccurate predictions for a series of compounds. Thus, a more reliable parameter, Ωσ*, has been developed through the linear combination of the σ‐hole depth and the σ*(C−I) energy, which was further validated against neutral, cationic, halogen‐ and nitrogen‐based halogen‐bond donors with very good performance.
Live Monitoring of Strain‐Promoted Azide Alkyne Cycloadditions in Complex Reaction Environments by Inline ATR‐IR Spectroscopy
Authors: Svatunek Dennis , Eilenberger Gottfried , Denk Christoph , Lumpi Daniel , Hametner Christian , Allmaier Günter , Mikula Hannes
Published: January 2020

The strain‐promoted azide alkyne cycloaddition (SPAAC) is a powerful tool for forming covalent bonds between molecules even under physiological conditions, and therefore found broad application in fields ranging from biological chemistry and biomedical research to materials sciences. For many applications, knowledge about reaction kinetics of these ligations is of utmost importance. Kinetics are commonly assessed and studied by NMR measurements. However, these experiments are limited in terms of temperature and restricted to deuterated solvents. By using an inline ATR‐IR probe we show that the cycloaddition of azides and alkynes can be monitored in aqueous and even complex biological fluids enabling the investigation of reaction kinetics in various solvents and even human blood plasma under controlled conditions in low reaction volumes.
Tuning the Fluorescence Through Reorientation of the Axle in Calix[6]arene‐Based Pseudorotaxanes
Authors: Bazzoni Margherita , Terenziani Francesca , Secchi Andrea , Cera Gianpiero , Jabin Ivan , De Leener Gaël , Luhmer Michel , Arduini Arturo
Published: January 2020

This work describes a calix[6]arene‐based wheel that binds, in non‐polar media, a stilbazolium salt to yield a mixture of pseudorotaxane orientational isomers. The isomer's abundance ratio evolves with time and can be reversibly tuned by adjusting the temperature. The spectroscopic properties, and notably the emission spectrum, of the bound guest depend on its orientation inside the non‐palindromic wheel, suggesting such a system as a switch with spectroscopic readout.
Structural Peculiarities and Thermoelectric Study of Iron Indium Thiospinel
Authors: Wyżga Paweł , Veremchuk Igor , Bobnar Matej , Koželj Primož , Klenner Steffen , Pöttgen Rainer , Leithe‐Jasper Andreas , Gumeniuk Roman
Published: January 2020

The homogeneity range of ternary iron indium thiospinel at 873 K was investigated. A detailed study was focused on two distinct series (y=z): 1) a previously reported charge‐balanced (In0.67+0.33y□0.33−0.33y)tetr[In2−zFez]octS4 (A1‐series; □ stands for vacancy; the abbreviations “tetr” and “oct” indicate atoms occupying tetrahedral 8a and octahedral 16d sites, respectively) and 2) a new charge‐unbalanced (In0.67+y□0.33−y)tetr[In2−zFez]octS4 (A2‐series). Fe atoms were confirmed to exclusively occupy an octahedral position in both series. An unusual reduction of the unit cell parameter with increasing Fe content is explained by differences in the ionic radii between Fe and In, as well as by an additional electrostatic attraction originating from charge imbalance (latter only in A2‐series). The studied compound is an n‐type semiconductor, and its charge carrier concentration increases or decreases for larger Fe content within the A1‐ and A2‐series, respectively. The thermal conductivity κtot is significantly reduced upon increasing vacancy concentration, whereas the change of power factor is insufficient to drastically improve the thermoelectric figure of merit.
Interception of Elusive Cationic Hf–Al and Hf–Zn Heterobimetallic Adducts with Mixed Alkyl Bridges Featuring Multiple Agostic Interactions
Authors: Tensi Leonardo , Froese Robert D. J. , Kuhlman Roger L. , Macchioni Alceo , Zuccaccia Cristiano
Published: January 2020

Heterobimetallic complexes with inequivalent bridging alkyl chains are very often invoked as key intermediates in many catalytic processes, yet their interception and structural characterization are lacking. Such complexes have been prepared from reactions of the cationic cyclometalated hafnocene [CpPrCpHf][B(C6F5)4] (1) with main group metal alkyls to afford the corresponding hetero‐bridged cationic products, [CpPrCpHf(μ‐R)E(R)n][B(C6F5)4] (E=Al or Zn; R=Me, Et, oriBu). NMR and DFT studies demonstrate that both bridging alkyls establish agostic interactions with Hf, which are appreciably stronger for ethyl rather than methyl groups. Hf–Al and Hf–Zn distances are surprisingly short and only slightly longer than computed Hf–Al or Hf–Zn single bond lengths (2.80 Å). Finally, a reaction of [CpPrCpHf(μ‐Me)Zn(Me)][B(C6F5)4] with excess ZnMe2yields an unprecedented heterotrimetallic species, [(CpPr)2Hf(μ‐Me)(ZnMe)(μ3‐CH2)ZnMe][B(C6F5)4], the detailed structure of which is elucidated by a combination of NMR spectroscopic methods and molecular calculations.
Photoinduced Heterogeneous C−H Arylation by a Reusable Hybrid Copper Catalyst
Authors: Choi Isaac , Müller Valentin , Lole Gaurav , Köhler Robert , Karius Volker , Viöl Wolfgang , Jooss Christian , Ackermann Lutz
Published: January 2020

Heterogeneous copper catalysis enabled photoinduced C−H arylations under exceedingly mild conditions at room temperature. The versatile hybrid copper catalyst provided step‐economical access to arylated heteroarenes, terpenes and alkaloid natural products with various aryl halides. The hybrid copper catalyst could be reused without significant loss of catalytic efficacy. Detailed studies in terms of TEM, HRTEM and XPS analysis of the hybrid copper catalyst, among others, supported its outstanding stability and reusability.
Industrial Application Aspects of the Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to CO in Aqueous Electrolyte
Authors: Krause Ralf , Reinisch David , Reller Christian , Eckert Helmut , Hartmann David , Taroata Dan , Wiesner‐Fleischer Kerstin , Bulan Andreas , Lueken Alexander , Schmid Guenter
Published: January 2020

The industrialization of the electrochemical reduction of CO2 toward CO in aqueous electrolytes has recently been started using silver‐based gas diffusion electrodes. The performance of a CO2‐to‐CO electrolyzer model on a 10‐cm2 cell size is assessed with respect to operating pressure, achievable current density at faradaic efficiency of CO above 90 %, composition of gas streams and operational lifetime. Operational lifetime has exceeded 1500 h. The first scaling step to 300 cm2 has been accomplished. The rated power of such a cell is around 300 W.
Anxiety more likely in children with chronic medical conditions
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: January 2020

Having a chronic medical condition puts a child at increased risk for anxiety disorders, a recent literature review has found. While the anxiety may be associated with adverse outcomes related to their disease, this isn't known, the researchers said. Furthermore, the anxiety itself may have an effect on the outcome of their condition. As a result, they recommend screening for — and treating — anxiety in all youths with chronic medical conditions.
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF)‐Derived Plasticizers by Coupling HMF Reduction with Enzymatic Esterification
Authors: Arias Karen S. , Carceller Jose M. , Climent Maria J. , Corma Avelino , Iborra Sara
Published: January 2020

Biobased plasticizers, as substitutes for phthalates, have been synthesized from 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and carboxylic acids (or esters) through a chemoenzymatic cascade process that involves as its first step the reduction of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5‐bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF), followed by the esterification of BHMF with carboxylic acids (or esters) by using a supported lipase (Novozym 435). The reduction of HMF into BHMF is performed by using monodisperse metallic Co nanoparticles with a thin carbon shell (Co@C) with high activity and selectivity. After optimization of reaction conditions (temperature, hydrogen pressure, and solvent), it is possible to achieve 97 % conversion of HMF with 99 % selectivity to BHMF after 2 h reaction time. The reduction of HMF and esterification of BHMF using carboxylic acids or vinyl esters as acyl donors by lipase are optimized separately in batch and in fixed‐bed continuous reactors. The coupling of two flow reactors (for reduction and subsequent esterification) working under optimized reaction conditions affords the diesters of BHMF in roughly 90 % yield with no loss of activity during 60 h of operation.
Cell Cycle Analysis and Relevance for Single‐Cell Gating in Mass Cytometry
Authors: Rein Idun D. , Notø Heidi Ø. , Bostad Monica , Huse Kanutte , Stokke Trond
Published: January 2020

Cell cycle analysis by mass cytometry (MC) is hampered by the poor resolution of the Iridium‐labeled DNA intercalator compared to DNA‐specific fluorescent dyes. We report here a minimum cell cycle panel for MC consisting of Ir‐intercalator (DNA content), IdU (S phase), anti‐pS28HistoneH3 (mitosis), anti‐CDT1 (G1 phase) and anti‐Geminin (non‐G1 phases). Cell cycle distributions obtained by MC were not significantly different from fluorescence flow cytometry results (r2 = 0.98, P < 0.001). Further subdivision of the G1 and G2 phases could be done with anti‐pS780RB1 (late G1) and anti‐PLK1 (late G2), respectively. A disadvantage of MC is that aggregates of cells cannot easily be removed while retaining all single cells. We have developed an analysis pipeline including unsupervised clustering by FlowSOM and subsequent single‐cell gating. When performed on cells stained with the cell cycle panel, this analysis pipeline successfully identified debris, dead/apoptotic cells, nonsingle‐cell populations and the major cell cycle phases. The presented cell cycle panel and analysis pipeline thus achieves true single‐cell analysis at the same time as any additional channels in the panel are open for phenotyping and cell cycle‐resolved expression or modification analysis. © 2020 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Role of Sulfonate Appendage in the Protein Binding Affinity of Half‐Sandwich Ruthenium(II)(η6‐p‐Cym) Complexes
Authors: Mansour Ahmed M. , Shehab Ola R. , Radacki Krzysztof
Published: January 2020

Mono‐ and binuclear benzimidazole based half‐sandwich organoruthenium(II) compounds; [Run(triazolateCOOCH3,COOCH3)n(η6‐p‐Cym)nL]0/+/2+ (n = 1, L = LCH2CH3 (7) and HLSO3H (8); n = 2, L = LDTP (9)) were synthesized by [3+2] free catalyzed cycloaddition reaction of azide complexes 4–6 with electron‐poor alkyne dimethyl acetylene dicarboxylate. In comparison with the parent [RunCln(η6‐p‐Cym)nL]0/+/2 complexes (1–3), the lysozyme binding affinity of the corresponding triazolate compounds 7–9 was investigated by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Complexes bearing benzimidazole ligand with an alkylated sulfonate side chain (2 and 8) are able to bind lysozyme noncovalently, which have not been clearly seen by other investigated Ru(II) complexes. The complexes were assessed for their potential antimicrobial activity against some representative microbes. Complex 9 exhibits antifungal activity against C. albicans (MIC = 24 nm) and C. neoformans (MIC = 12 nm), perfect blood compatibility as well as no toxicity to non‐malignant cell line (human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293).
Cooperative Donor–Acceptor Interactions in Stabilizing Carbene‐Borane and Carbene‐Alane Compounds: A Theoretical Insight
Authors: Dutta Sayan , De Sriman , Bose Sanjoy , Mahal Eti , Koley Debasis
Published: January 2020

Density functional theory calculations have been performed to elucidate the electronic structure and bonding scenario in various carbene‐borane (LBX₃) and carbene‐alane (LAlX₃) compounds (X = ‐H, ‐Me, ‐Cl, ‐Ph, ‐C6F5). We have performed extended transition state (ETS) analysis to reveal the nature of the donor–acceptor bonds (Ccarb–E; E = B, Al) and also for the assessment of the intrinsic donor–acceptor strength in this class of compounds. Our computations suggest that the Ccarb–Al bonds in all the LAlX₃ adducts have substantially higher electrostatic nature than covalent character. Conversely, the nature of the Ccarb–B bonds in LBX₃ have a strong dependence on the electronic nature of both carbene and borane. Moreover, unlike alanes in LAlX₃, the intrinsic Lewis acid strength of the boranes in LBX₃ has a strong dependence on the electronic nature of the carbenes. We have also explored the correlation of the interaction energies (ΔEint) with various bonding parameters i.e., geometrical and Natural bond orbital (NBO) parameters of LEH₃. Furthermore, natural orbital for chemical valence (NOCV) calculations are performed to have a qualitative understanding of the relative σ‐donating and π‐accepting abilities of the carbenes in LEH₃. Additionally, we have investigated the abilities of carbenes to activate the B–H bonds in BH3 and pinacolborane. ETS analysis shows a strong dependence of the B–H activation barriers on the distortion energies of both carbene and borane fragments.
C−H Activation and Olefin Insertion in d8 and d0 Complexes: Same Elementary Steps, Different Electronics
Authors: Bumberger Andreas E. , Gordon Christopher P. , Trummer David , Copéret Christophe
Published: January 2020

Metallocene alkyl complexes with d0 electron configuration and d8‐configured square planar α‐diimine late transition metal alkyl complexes show activity in both C−H activation through σ‐bond metathesis and olefin insertion. Herein, we show by analysis of their M−CH3 13C chemical shift tensors that these reactions involve a π(M−C) interaction in the horizontal plane of the complex for both d0 and d8 systems. While in the case of d0 systems the interaction of an empty metal d‐orbital and a filled carbon p‐orbital causes partial alkylidene character of the M−C bond, the corresponding metal d‐orbital is filled in d8 systems, thus generating a filled π*(M−C) orbital that increases the anionic character of the methyl group. This entails fundamentally different reaction mechanisms for d0 and d8 systems, which are reflected in the structures of the transition states: While d0 olefin insertion can be viewed as a [2+2] cycloaddition reaction, d8 olefin insertion rather resembles methyl group migration onto a positively polarized olefin, thus explaining the observed differences in regioselectivity. These findings are translated to σ‐bond metathesis, a reaction which is isolobal to olefin insertion for both early and late transition metals.
Impact of BMI on HER2+ metastatic breast cancer patients treated with pertuzumab and/or trastuzumab emtansine. Real‐world evidence
Authors: Krasniqi Eriseld , Pizzuti Laura , Barchiesi Giacomo , Sergi Domenico , Carpano Silvia , Botti Claudio , Kayal Ramy , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Marchetti Paolo , Botticelli Andrea , Marinelli Daniele , Gamucci Teresa , Natoli Clara , Grassadonia Antonino , Tinari Nicola , Tomao Silverio , Tonini Giuseppe , Santini Daniele , Michelotti Aandrea , Mentuccia Lucia , Vaccaro Aangela , Magnolfi Emanuela , Gelibter Alain , Magri Valentina , Cortesi Enrico , D’Onofrio Loretta , Cassano Alessandra , Cazzaniga Marina , Moscetti Luca , Fabbri Agnese , Scinto Angelo Fedele , Corsi Domenico , Carbognin Luisa , Bria Emilio , La Verde Nicla , Garufi Carlo , Di Stefano Pia , Mirabelli Rossana , Veltri Enzo , Paris Ida , Giotta Francesco , Lorusso Vito , Landucci Elisa , Ficorella Corrado , Roselli Mario , Adamo Vincenzo , Ricciardi Giuseppina , Russo Antonio , Valerio Maria Rosaria , Berardi Rossana , Pistelli Mirco , Cannita Katia , Zamagni Claudio , Garrone Ornella , Baldini Editta , Livi Lorenzo , Meattini Icro , Del Medico Pietro , Generali Daniele , De Maria Ruggero , Risi Emanuela , Ciliberto Gennaro , Villa Alice , Sperduti Isabella , Mazzotta Marco , Barba Maddalena , Giordano Antonio , Vici Patrizia
Published: January 2020

Body mass index (BMI) is a main indicator of obesity and its association with breast cancer is well established. However, little is known in the metastatic setting, especially in HER2‐positive patients. We assessed the influence of BMI on clinical outcomes of patients treated with pertuzumab and/or trastuzumab emtansine (T‐DM1) for HER2+ metastatic breast cancer (mBC). BMI was addressed as a categorical variable, being classified on the basis of the following ranges, that is, 18.5–24.9, 25–29.9, and 30.0–34.9, namely, normal weight, overweight, and Class I obesity. The outcomes chosen were progression‐free survival to first‐line chemotherapy (PFS1) and overall survival (OS). Overall (N = 709), no impact of BMI was observed on PFS1 (p = .15), while BMI ≥ 30 was associated with worse OS (p = .003). In subjects who progressed to first line (N = 575), analyzing data across PFS1 quartiles and strata of disease burden, BMI predicted lower PFS1 in patients within the I PFS1 quartile and with the lowest disease burden (p = .001). Univariate analysis showed a detrimental effect of BMI ≥ 30 on OS for women within the I PFS1 quartile (p = .03). Results were confirmed in multivariate analysis. According to PFS1 quartiles a higher percentage of patients with high BMI and low disease burden progressed within 6 months of therapy. The effect of BMI on prognosis was also confirmed in multivariate analysis of OS for overall population. In our cohort, a BMI ≥ 30 correlated with worse OS in patients with HER2+ mBC who received pertuzumab and/or T‐DM1 but had no impact on PFS to first line. BMI predicted worse I PFS1 quartile.
Long noncoding RNA SNHG12 modulated by human papillomavirus 16 E6/E7 promotes cervical cancer progression via ERK/Slug pathway
Authors: Lai Shu‐Yu , Guan Hong‐Mei , Liu Jie , Huang Li‐Jun , Hu Xiao‐Lin , Chen Yi‐Hong , Wu Yi‐Hua , Wang Ying , Yang Qi , Zhou Jue‐Yu
Published: January 2020

Recently, long noncoding RNA SNHG12 has been reported to be dysregulated in various types of cancer. This study investigated its biological function and the underlying molecular mechanism in cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). We found that SNHG12 was significantly overexpressed in CSCC tissues. Further evidence showed that human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 E6 and E7 might regulate the expression level of SNHG12 by modulating transcription factor c‐Myc. Functional experiments suggested that SNHG12 knockdown dramatically repressed CSCC cells proliferation, migration, and invasion while induced apoptosis in vitro as well as suppressed tumor growth in vivo. In addition, SNHG12 could facilitate epithelial–mesenchymal transition through ERK/Slug/E‐cadherin pathway at least in part. Our findings highlight SNHG12 functions as an oncogenic long noncoding RNA in malignant phenotype and tumorigenesis of CSCC, which implicate it may be a potential target for CSCC treatment.
Network‐based integration method for potential breast cancer gene identification
Authors: Zhang Yue , Li Wan , Zhang Yihua , Hu Erqiang , Rong Zherou , Ge Luanfeng , Deng Gui , He Yuehan , Lv Junjie , Chen Lina , He Weiming
Published: January 2020

Breast cancer is the most common female death‐causing cancer worldwide. A network‐based integration method was proposed to identify potential breast cancer genes. First, genes were prioritized using a gene prioritization algorithm by the strategy of disease risks transferred between genes in a network with weighted vertexes and edges. Our prioritization algorithm was effectives and robust for top‐ranked seed gene number and higher area under the curve values compared to ToppGene and ToppNet. Then, 20 potential breast cancer genes were identified as common genes of the top 50 candidate genes for their robustness in multiple prioritizations. These genes could accurately classify tumor and normal samples of all and paired sample sets and three independent datasets. Of potential breast cancer genes, 18 were verified by literature and 2 were novel genes that need further study. This study would contribute to the understanding of the genetic architecture for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
Local‐regional recurrence risk after autologous fat grafting in breast cancer patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Ke , Dai Yuechu , Pan Yin , Cheng Pu , Jin Xiaoyan
Published: January 2020

This meta‐analysis aims to determine whether autologous fat grafting (AFG) affects the risk of local‐regional recurrence (LRR) in breast cancer patients. In pooled analyses of 11 eligible studies, AFG was not associated with increased LRR. Subgroup analyses showed that AFG did not increase the risk of LRR in patients undergoing breast‐conserving surgery or mastectomy, in patients with in situ carcinomas or invasive carcinomas, or in patients undergoing postoperative radiotherapy.
Impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy on surgical and pathological results of gastric cancer patients: A case‐control study
Authors: Charruf Amir Zeide , Ramos Marcus Fernando Kodama Pertille , Pereira Marina Alessandra , Dias Andre Roncon , de Castria Tiago Biachi , Zilberstein Bruno , Cecconelo Ivan , Ribeiro Ulysses
Published: January 2020

Background and Objective

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by radical surgery represents a treatment option for patients with advanced gastric cancer (GC). This case‐control study aimed to evaluate the clinicopathological characteristics and surgical outcomes of GC patients who received NACT, and its impact on survival.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with GC who underwent gastrectomy. A total of 45 cases with NACT were matched with consecutive 45 patients who underwent upfront gastrectomy for the following characteristics: gender, age, gastrectomy type, lymphadenectomy extent, American Society of Anesthesiologists class, histological type, cT and cN.

Results

NACT group had smaller tumors (4.9 vs 6.8 cm P = .006), lower lymphatic invasion rate (40% vs 73.3%, P = .001), lower venous invasion rate (18% vs 46.7%, P = .003) and lower perineural invasion rate (35% vs 77.8%, P < .0001). The ypTNM stage was lower in patients treated with NACT (P < .001). The major postoperative complication (POC) rate was lower in NACT patients (6.7% vs 24.4%, P = .02), as was hospital length of stay (10.8 vs 17 days, P = .005).

Conclusions

NACT allowed nodal and tumor downstaging. In addition, patients who underwent NACT had fewer POC and shorter length of hospital stay.
Combining ultrasound‐assisted extraction and vortex‐assisted liquid–liquid microextraction for the sensitive assessment of aflatoxins in aquaculture fish species
Authors: Jayasinghe G. D. Thilini Madurangika , Domínguez‐González Raquel , Bermejo‐Barrera Pilar , Moreda‐Piñeiro Antonio
Published: January 2020

Although aflatoxins contamination in feedstuff is a well‐known problem, and hence these residues are controlled in poultry products, there is scarce information regarding the presence of these toxic substances in aquaculture fish, facilities that use several feedstuff for fish breeding. A simple, rapid, and sensitive method has been therefore developed for aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, and G2) assessment in aquaculture products by combining ultrasound probe‐assisted extraction and vortex‐assisted liquid–liquid microextraction as a sample pretreatment, and high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry as a separation/detection system. Aflatoxins were extracted from fish flesh/liver with a 60:40 acetonitrile/aqueous phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) mixture before preconcentration and clean‐up by vortex‐assisted liquid–liquid microextraction under the following optimized conditions: 5.0 mL of fish extract at pH 7.0 and NaCl at 0.5% (w/v), 400 μL of chloroform as extracting solvent, and vortex shaking at 2000 rpm for 1 min. The proposed method is shown to be precise and accurate, and the limit of quantitations (from 0.20 to 1.10 μg kg−1) were lower than the value established by the European Commission Regulation for aflatoxins in foodstuff. Results have shown that fish flesh is free of aflatoxins, but aflatoxins B2 and G1 were quantified in fish liver.
Evaluation of the Stability of Fatty Acids in Erythrocytes from Human Umbilical Cord
Authors: Jaramillo Angela M. , Garmendia María L. , Muñoz Patricio , Corbari Alicia , Valenzuela Rodrigo , Casanello Paola
Published: January 2020

The interest in the amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the umbilical cord blood (UCB) is increasing, but the stability of erythrocyte PUFA in these samples during storage and washing of the erythrocytes has not been directly evaluated. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of the lapse of time on the fatty acid (FA) content from UCB sample collection and maintained at 4 °C (0–12 h) until erythrocyte separation and washing. Palmitic acid (16:0), stearic acid (18:0), 18:1n‐7/n‐9, linoleic acid (18:2n‐6), arachidonic acid (20:4n‐6), 22:4n‐6, eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n‐3), docosapentaenoic acid (22:5n‐3), and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n‐3) together accounted for 87% of the FA profile in the umbilical vein erythrocytes. No difference was observed in the concentration of any of the FA studied, nor in the sum of saturated fatty acids (SFA), PUFA, or LC‐PUFA in umbilical erythrocytes obtained at delivery and stored up to 12 h before the separation of erythrocytes. However, if a washing step was included in the processing of the erythrocytes, a decrease in the concentration of 16:0, 18:0, 18:3n‐3, 20:4n‐6, 22:4n‐6, total SFA, PUFA, LC‐PUFA, and n‐6 LC‐PUFA was evidenced, compared to unwashed erythrocytes. The FA concentration in umbilical cord erythrocytes did not change between samples stored from 0 to 12 h until erythrocyte separation. Erythrocyte washing before storage decreased the concentration of significant individual and total SFA, PUFA, and LC‐PUFA. These results should be considered when planning the collection of UCB samples for the study of fatty acid concentration due to the nonscheduled timing of deliveries.
Spectral multipliers for functions of fixed K‐type on Lp(SL(2,R))
Authors: Ricci Fulvio , Wróbel Błażej
Published: January 2020

We prove an spectral multiplier theorem for functions of the K‐invariant sublaplacian L acting on the space of functions of fixed K‐type on the group . As an application we compute the joint spectrum of L and the derivative along K.
Treatable Inherited Movement Disorders in Children: Spotlight on Clinical and Biochemical Features
Authors: Galosi Serena , Nardecchia Francesca , Leuzzi Vincenzo
Published: January 2020

Background

About 80% of monogenic metabolic diseases causing movement disorders (MDs) emerges during the first 2 decades of life, and a number of these conditions offers the opportunity of a disease‐modifying treatment. The implementation of enlarged neonatal screening programs and the impressive rapid increase of the identification of new conditions are enhancing our potential to recognize and treat several diseases causing MDs, changing their outcome and phenotypic spectrum.

Methods and Findings

A literature review of monogenic disorders causing MDs amenable to treatment was conducted focusing on early clinical signs and diagnostic biomarkers. A classification in 3 broad categories based on the therapeutic approach has been proposed. Some disorders result in irreversible neurotoxic lesions that can only be prevented if treated in a presymptomatic stage, and others present with a progressive neurological impairment that a timely diagnosis and treatment may reverse or improve. Some MDs are the result of the failure of intracellular energy supply or altered glucose transport. The treatment in these conditions includes vitamins or a metabolic shift from a carbohydrate to a fatty acid catabolism, respectively. Finally, a group of highly treatable MDs are the result of defects of neurotransmitter metabolism. In these disorders, the supplementation of precursors or mimetics of neurotransmitters can deeply change the disease natural history.

Conclusions

To prevent serious and irreversible neurological impairment, the diagnostic work‐up of MDs in children should consider a number of clinical red flags and biomarkers denoting specifically treatable diseases.
Patient experience of communication consistency amongst staff is related to nurse–physician teamwork in hospitals
Authors: von Knorring Mia , Griffiths Peter , Ball Jane , Runesdotter Sara , Lindqvist Rikard
Published: January 2020

Aim

To investigate whether nurse reported teamwork with physicians was associated with patient perceived consistency in staff‐to‐patient communication.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey design was used, drawing on data collected from two surveys in England.

Methods

Teamwork was assessed using data from the RN4CAST survey of 2,990 nurses in 31 Trusts in England. Data on patient experience derived from the National Health Services Adult Inpatient Questionnaire, including 12,506 patients in the same Trusts. A cross‐sectional design with multivariate logistic regression was used.

Results

Each 5% increase in the proportion of nurses who agree that there “is a lot of teamwork between nurses and physicians” was associated with 7% lower odds that patients reported inconsistency in communication amongst staff. The results suggest that patients seem to experience the consequences of less teamwork between nurses and physicians through their own perceptions of inconsistency in communication between staff. The findings emphasize good teamwork between doctors and nurses are not only important for the team, but also can have consequences for patients. It provides additional incentive to find mechanisms to breakdown disciplinary barriers and improve the cohesion of clinical teams for the benefit of their patients.
Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis in an 8‐year old treated for neuroblastoma
Authors: Gerstle Karyn , Tanager Kevin , Hegde Satyanarayan , Chung Jonathan H. , Husain Aliya N. , Applebaum Mark A. , Dyamenahalli Umesh
Published: January 2020

Pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE), which is primarily diagnosed in adults, is a progressive lung pathology associated with significant morbidity and mortality. PPFE is characterized by pleural and subpleural parenchymal disease causing dyspnea, cough, and recurrent pneumothoraces. PPFE can be precipitated by autoimmune disorders, recurrent respiratory infections, chemotherapy, and transplant. We describe the youngest recorded patient to develop PPFE, whose symptoms began several years after treatment for neuroblastoma. Her symptoms were initially mistaken for worsening asthma, and multiple comorbidities developed during the prolonged time to recognition of PPFE and she progressed to fatal lung disease before potentially curative lung transplantation could occur.
Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes prior to early preterm delivery elevates the risk of later respiratory‐related hospitalizations in the offspring
Authors: Imterat Majdi , Wainstock Tamar , Sheiner Eyal , Landau Daniella , Yaretski Anne‐Sarah , Walfisch Asnat
Published: January 2020

Objective

Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) precedes 30%‐40% of all preterm births. Early preterm delivery (<34 gestation weeks) is a well‐established risk factor for short‐ and long‐term respiratory morbidity in the offspring. We aimed to ascertain whether the presence of PPROM, before early preterm delivery, independently impacts long‐term respiratory hospitalizations in the offspring.

Study Design

A population‐based retrospective cohort analysis was performed including all singleton early preterm deliveries. Exposure was defined as the presence of PPROM. Hospitalizations of the offspring up to the age of 18 years involving respiratory‐related morbidity were evaluated. A Kaplan‐Meier survival curve and multivariable Cox regression model were used to assess the association.

Results

During the study period, 3309 early preterm deliveries met the inclusion criteria. In 22.4% of cases (n = 742), PPROM was documented. Rates of respiratory‐related hospitalizations of the offspring up to the age of 18 years were significantly higher in the exposed group (12.5% vs 9.4% in the unexposed group, P = .023). The survival curve demonstrated significantly higher cumulative incidence of respiratory hospitalizations in the exposed group (logrank P = .018). In the Cox regression model controlled for gestational age, and other clinically relevant confounders – PPROM before early preterm deliveries was independently associated with an increased risk for long‐term childhood respiratory‐related hospitalizations in the offspring (adjusted hazard ratio 1.40, 95% confidence interval, 1.05‐1.87, P = .021).

Conclusion

Fetal exposure to PPROM before early preterm delivery was associated with an increased risk for long‐term respiratory hospitalizations in the offspring.
The efficacy of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) on selected cardiovascular disease risk factors: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Najafpour Boushehri Saeid , Karimbeiki Razieh , Ghasempour Sara , Ghalishourani Samira‐Sadat , Pourmasoumi Makan , Hadi Amir , Mbabazi Muniirah , pour Ziyaaddin Keshavarzpour , Assarroudi Mostafa , Mahmoodi Marzieh , Khosravi Abdolrasool , Mansour‐Ghanaei Fariborz , Joukar Farahnaz
Published: January 2020

This study sought to summarize clinical evidence of sour tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) administration on cardiovascular disease risk factors. PubMed, Scopus, Institute for Scientific Information Web of Science, and Google Scholar were systematically searched from inception to June 2019 to identify randomized clinical trials, which assessed the effect of sour tea consumption on lipid profiles, fasting plasma glucose, and blood pressure in adult populations. Mean and standard deviation for each parameter were extracted to calculate effect size. Cochrane Collaboration tools were used to evaluate risk of bias assessment. A total of seven randomized clinical trials consisting 362 participants were included in the meta‐analysis. Pooled effect size demonstrated that sour tea consumption significantly reduces fasting plasma glucose (−3.67 mg/dl, 95% confidence interval, CI [−7.07, −0.27]; I2 = 37%), systolic blood pressure (−4.71 mmHg, 95% CI [−7.87, −1.55]; I2 = 53%), and diastolic blood pressure (−4.08 mmHg, 95% CI [−6.48, −1.67]; I2 = 14%). Although no significant effect was observed on triacylglycerol, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol following sour tea consumption, a trend toward a significant reduction was found in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol serum concentrations (p = 0.08). This systematic review and meta‐analysis suggests that sour tea consumption could have beneficial effect in controlling glycemic status and blood pressure among adult population.
The Molecular Regulation of Ethylene in Fruit Ripening
Authors: Liu Yudong , Tang Mingfeng , Liu Mingchun , Su Deding , Chen Jing , Gao Yushuo , Bouzayen Mondher , Li Zhengguo
Published: January 2020

Fleshy fruits are major sources of necessary nutrients in many diets worldwide. Most fruit quality attributes emerge during ripening making the fruit more attractive to consumers. Understanding the molecular regulatory network underpinning fleshy fruit ripening is important not only for fruit quality improvement but also for postharvest shelf life. The phytohormone ethylene plays an essential role in climacteric fruit ripening and a number of studies have demonstrated that ethylene signaling components and related transcription factors are involved in the regulation of fruit ripening. However, the transcriptional network by which ethylene interacts with other signaling pathways to regulate the ripening process is not fully understood. In this review, focusing on the tomato as a reference species, the key points regarding the role of ethylene in coordinating the ripening process at the molecular and physiological levels are described. The interplay between ethylene and ripening‐related regulators and its crosstalk with other phytohormones and present recent data on ripening‐related epigenetic modifications are also discussed. Overall, the paper summarizes the most advanced research progress in this area to help facilitate its future development.